September 2010 Archives

I haven't heard anything from the Azusa city clerk's office this morning, but the deadline for the county to respond on the Azusa Rock Quarry referendum effort is today.

Members of the political action group Azusans Against Mining Expansion submitted 2,532 signatures to the city clerk's office. They needed 1,650 registered voter signatures to qualify the referendum.

The referendum would then head to the ballot either next March during the council elections, or during a special election. Its intention is to repeal Vulcan Materials Co.'s development agreement with the city over its recently amended Azusa Rock Quarry mining plan.

AAME believe by repealing the development agreement, it will nullify the council's decision to approve the plan. City officials believe it won't stop the plan, but only take away money gained by the city via the development agreement.

The Los Angeles County Registrar's Office deadline to respond for the confirmation of qualified signatures is today, but what time they will hand them over to Azusa is not known.

We will have something posted on the website the first we hear of it.

UPDATE: County told me the signatures have been reviewed and are now being looked at by the division manager and assistant registrar. It will then go to the County Clerk for final review before the results are given to the city either today or tomorrow.

She declined to give the preliminary results of the count.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

(via reporter Thomas Himes)

The Monterey Park Police Officers' Association on Wednesday came out in support of a former police chief who received $576,000 in pay and benefits during his last nine months of work for the city.

In a report published last week, it was revealed that former police chief Jones Moy collected more than half-a-million in pay and benefits in 2009. A significant portion of that money, $372,000 stems from unused time-off Moy cashed out before leaving. It was also revealed earlier this week that Moy and eight other top city officials are eligible to receive three months off a year they can cash out at 100% of their highest pay.

The President of the Monterey Park Police Officers' Association, Ruben Semerena called the report a "politically motivated act intended to turn the citizens against those who strive to make the community a safe and better place for everyone..."

Semerena came to that conclusion by alleging Moy's payout was publicly posted earlier this year on the city's website. City officials said Moy's compensation was not posted online. Semerena has not responded to requests for further explanation of claims made in his letter.

Dear Editor,

Monterey Park Police Officers Association

There were some new guests at the Glendora City Council meeting Tuesday.

Students from a government class at Glendora High School were on hand, taking notes through the meeting.

The students were tortured (I kid, I kid) .... ahem ... were given this riveting learning experience for an assignment regarding local government. The students were allowed to attend any council meeting, but these students choice Glendora, because, well, it was easiest. I would have done the same.

After the meeting I caught up with a couple students and asked them how they enjoyed seeing democracy at work.

Blair Collins Rivera, 17, of Duarte was one of the students.

"It was kind of interesting to watch the public speakers," the Glendora High senior said.

I have to agree. Glendora has some of the most passionate public speakers I have seen. The criticism can be downright personal and mean at times, and the council has at times engaged in the mud slinging. If you are a 17-year-old kid watching a meeting, it is easy to see how this might be the most entertaining part.

I asked them about the council's discussion about immigration, but they smartly strayed from putting their own feet to the fire.

"It was hard to follow, but interesting to see the debate," said Brittni Perez, 16, also a senior at Glendora High School.

Perez, of Azusa, said she didn't know enough about immigration and the debate to have a feeling one way or the other.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

One of the more interesting moments of Glendora's city council meeting Tuesday night was the discussion over a resolution that would be a proclamation of support for "The Rule of Law and State Rights"

The resolution, as it was written, would make it known that Glendora supports the law. As its justification, It has a few paragraphs relating to immigration, such as acknowledging the country's history of immigrants, support of legal immigration, acknowledging the country and state has laws regarding immigration, raises issues of human trafficking and drugs, and finally says, in probably its strongest statement, that other states and cities have enacted laws as a result of unfair practices by the federal government (Arizona anyone?)

The intent, when councilmen Doug Tessitor and Ken Herman asked for it to be drawn up, was as a stance against illegal immigration and sanctuary cities.

When the resolution went before the council, many members had problems with it. Tessitor and councilman Gene Murabito thought it wasn't strong enough to express the council's intent. Tessitor called it "vanilla."

City Attorney Wayne Leech said it was his intent to water it down in an effort to not put the city on the side of a law that could be rendered unconstitutional.

So the actual resolution section only stated "The City of Glendora supports the rule of law and that enforcement of all government laws, rules and regulations must be done in a fair and equitable manner so that its citizens believe that regardless of their race; family status; religion, creed or financial ability will be treated in the true spirit of Justice being blind to those elements."

Councilman Terry Kent expressed what most people watching probably thought too. If this does nothing more than say Glendora supports all laws, and considering the city already enforces those laws, than why is the council even talking about this?

"We are already doing it," Kent said during the meeting. "I don't know why we are here, to be honest with you."

Councilwoman Karen Davis echoed Kent's comments.

"We have, we are and will enforce the laws and in terms of other cities, what we say or do will not impact what those other cities will do," she said. "We have a jurisdiction to enforce the laws in Glendora, which we have, are and will do. If the intent is to make a reflection on what some other cities have chosen to do, then maybe the language of this needs to be different."

Murabito had problems with the resolution's intent versus the actual language.

"If we want to make a statement the we support the laws, why do we then in one paragraph here get very specific to immigration law?" he asked. "To me this whole resolution is saying in essence, we support the laws ... and then, oh by the way, we are going to draft this to address immigration."

Tessitor said immigration should be part of the resolution, and in fact, brought forward stronger within the resolution because "immigration is the lynch pin" by which other cities have fashioned sanctuary city laws.

"I think that is the nexus that is important in taking a stand," he said.

In the end, only Herman and Tessitor voted in favor of the resolution which died 3-2.

History triumphed over a historical marketing campaign in San Gabriel yesterday.

The San Gabriel Band of Mission Indians were able to convince the council to oppose changing the city's motto from "City with a Mission" to "History in the Making."

The new motto was part of a marketing effort to attract business to the city. The old motto is a clever title (you see how mission has two meanings? cool, uh!) that represents the city's roots.

Also, Developer Trammell Crow Residential last week announced the release and publication of the draft Environmental Impact Report on its proposed 537-unit Canyon Residences multi-family housing proposal in Rowland Heights.

In previous episodes of the salary/association wars in Glendora, the city was prepared to suspend a salary schedule recently approved for department managers that has been the subject of some controversy.

It appears, after reading the staff report today, (updated) the city intends to take back some raises that relate to the schedule. What exactly will be taken back is unclear based on the report's language.

"That any Department Director's salary that was minimally adjusted to allow payroll to place them into a corresponding salary step in accordance with resolutions 2010-26 and 2010-005 be returned to their prior salary in a y-rated step to their monthly rate, as identified in their contract and/or their personnel file immediately prior to July 27, 2010."

After contentious debate between the city and the Glendora municipal employees association regarding a new contract, it will be interesting to see how the two sides are able to negotiate a salary schedule with so much room for interpretation.

Most importantly, how will the city seek to define "exceeds performance" regarding merit increase. In private industry, that is usually a broad definition left to interpretation by the supervisor. In this situation, I suspect the union will want more clarity. Does "exceeds expectations" mean doing your job PLUS that of another or is it doing your job better than anyone else would do it?

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

Here is a quick look at the cost of Azusa's environmental impact report for the recently approved Azusa Rock Quarry project.

A recent survey shows SGV school districts pay superintendents an average of $185,000 annually.

Advocates against police checkpoints say a new video shows an illegal checkpoint run by the Baldwin Park Police Department. A local expert agrees.

And look, someone won $150,000 from a winning lottery ticket sold in Covina. Who's happy for him/her? That's right, nobody because we are all bitter we didn't win that cash (and it was SO close!)

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

Here is some fun viewing for your weekend. Not to heavy thinking involved, only discussions about advanced physics, anti-matter, multi-verses, math that might as well be in Latin and such.

But the first question was too compelling not to watch.

What WOULD happen if you put your hand in front of the Large Hadron Collider beam? watch here.

Got this via reporter Rebecca Kimitch:

Something got to Brian Gutierrez, Republican candidate for the 57th Assembly district, over the summer.

Just two months after the 20-year-old candidate made the unusual move of endorsing his Democratic rival, West Covina Councilman Roger Hernandez, Gutierrez has done a complete 180.

This week he not only "vehemently" rescinded his endorsement, he went on to refer to Hernandez as "a typical double-talking politician known for his lying."

Gutierrez said Hernandez hasn't lived up to his promises to take the young GOP candidate on the campaign trail with him and to listen to the ideas of Republicans.

"I had been badly misled and duped by him," Gutierrez said.

In July, Gutierrez sang a different song. Back then, he praised Hernandez as someone who would listen to all constituents, regardless of party, and said the Democrat has more experience than him.

Gutierrez also called Hernandez a role model and mentor, remembering how his rival had him over for Thanksgiving when his mom died.

Back in July he said: "My party may not be happy with me for the decision I made, but I believe that no matter who one person may be in terms of their party, you should always support someone you believe in and who can do the job."

While Gutierrez acknowledged this week that he "simply didn't do his research" before endorsing his rival, he said he wasn't being naive in believing a Democrat would listen to Republican ideas.

Either way, the flip-flop won't likely have much of an outcome on the race. Considering how Democratic the 57th leans, Hernandez is largely considered a shoo-in for the seat.

Here is Gutierrez's news release:

Brian A. Gutierrez
Republican Nominee

I Brian A. Gutièrrez approved this letter:

-ATHOURIZED BY BRIAN A GUTIERREZ FOR ASSEMBLY 2010-PRINTED IN HOUSE-

--
Sincerely,
Brian A. Gutierrez
Candidate/Nominee for California's 57th
Assembly District.

Vulcan Materials Co. will host an open access day to Fish Canyon on Saturday, officials said.

The mining company will provide shuttles for access through its Azusa Rock Quarry mining site to reach the Fish Canyon Trail located just behind the site.

There will be free parking at Vulcan's site for those who wish to attend. The three mile hike leads to the Fish Canyon Falls, noted as one of the most breathtaking waterfalls in the San Gabriel Valley.

Access starts at 7 a.m. with shuttles running to the beginning of the trail until noon. All hikers must return to the site by 3 p.m.

Vulcan's site is at the north end of Encanto Parkway, off Foothill Boulevard, in Azusa.

The news out of Montebello and Monterey Park today is pretty astounding.

First in Monterey Park we learned that former Police Chief Jones Moy cashed in $372,559 in unused sick, vacation and holiday pay before he retired last year.

And for the cherry on the cake, he filed for workers compensation benefits in the months before he left.

Cashing in benefits like this by department managers is going to be an issue in the future, I predict. So many cities are appealing to candidates with large benefit packages, such as a months worth of vacation that can be saved year to year. Plus, many of these same managers already get a certain amount of administrative leave hours (often more than two weeks a year like Glendora's new chief will get) so they can take a two week vacation and not have touched their paid vacation time.

Work for a city for a city for 12+ years while saving a month's worth of vacation/sick time each year and suddenly you retire with your CALPERS benefits with the retirement bonus of a year's salary or more.

Then in Montebello the city depleted its redevelopment agencies budget to refill the general fund budget with a $19.3 million loan. The loan dissenting councilwoman there said the action was probably "illegal."

Redevelopment money is intended for just that: Redevelopment. The money for such agencies usually comes from county property tax dollars that goes to cities in an effort to fix up blighted neighborhoods. The money is not intended to pay for city salaries, police, services and other general fund expenditures. In fact, as Glendora has seen, if you want a piece of the redevelopment pie, you have to assuredly prove what you are fixing up is blighted. If not, then the gravy train stops short.

It is hard to imagine seeing this hold up.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

The news came this week that Glendora officials are looking to suspend a recently approved merit increase schedule for managers in an effort to broker a deal for a similar schedule with the Glendora municipal employees association.

Within that story, it was also shown that despite previous representations, Glendora gave raises to three managers PRIOR to the salary schedule being approved, but those raises were reflected within the schedule.

Just to elaborate on this issue are a few facts.

Here is Chris Jeffers, in an e-mail, explaining City Clerk Kathleen Sessman's salary increases over the last two years, as well as her concessions:

On 10/06/08 received a 2% merit to $8,377. This covered her performance from 2007-08 time period.

So the incumbent's base salary increase by 10% since 10/08, her total compensation has been permanently reduced by <6.7%> with the action this past July. So the net adjustment is 3.3% increase in compensation in two years.

I will add one thing. That final 5 percent was done in two parts, 2.5 percent the bumped her up to her new step 1 on the approved salary schedule, and then another 2.5 percent, as reflected on the salary schedule, to step 2.

To clear out a few more notes, the big thing about the merit increases was the ability to switch to a more private sector structure of requiring better than satisfactory reviews to get a raise. But within all the department managers' contracts - prior to the new schedule - was a condition they must receive exemplary performance reviews to get merit increases. What this schedule then does is allow for managers to have a more transparent structure and one that rewards people for longevity.

Given that the city appears to have operated under much of those conditions already, it would seem they wanted this to serve as a model more so than the actual impact it may have on manager salaries and merit increases for them.

Whether or not they will be able to broker a deal is something that remains to be seen.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

Sensitive to the economy and the housing market crash, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors gave the Azusa Rosedale housing project's developers a four year extension on building a fire station for the community.

"We asked them on behalf of developers ... if they would consider giving an extension," Azusa City Manager Fran Delach said. "They had no problem and understood. It's a good thing that will help Rosedale."

The developers will have until May 2015 to construct a 6,000 square foot replacement fire station that is contingent on 1,000 homes being sold in the community.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

Azusa Unified School Board Member Xilonin Cruz-Gonzalez is being fined by the Fair Political Practices Commission for failing to report campaign funds, according to a statement from the commission.

Cruz-Gonzalez, a current school board member, did not meet the deadline for a semi-annual campaign statement for the period between Jan. 1, 2008 and June 30, 2008, according to the statement.

The proposed fine for the failure is $400, according to the FPPC.

In addition to her work as a board member, Cruz-Gonzalez is a well-known anti-mining advocate in the community that has championed an effort to turn down a recent mining plan for the Azusa Rock Quarry.

She has often spoken out regarding the project, but has always said that her role as a board member is separate to her work advocating against the mining project.

UPDATE: Since there was a lot of discussion regarding this post, I did a quick follow up.

Sent a request to the county recorder's office regarding campaign statements for school board members during the same period Cruz-Gonzalez was fined for not turning in the statements.

Here are the dates each member turned in the statements, according to the county.

Xilonin Cruz-Gonzalez 470 Statement 04/28/2010
Barbara Dickerson 460 Statement 07/31/2008
Rosemary Garcia 470 Statement 08/20/2008
John Burke Hamilton 470 Statement 08/18/2008
Ilean M. Ochoa 470 Statement 08/19/2008

UPDATE THE SEQUEL: Got some more information from the county.

The deadline for turning in the statement was indeed July 31 (kudos to David mentioning that below, as I forgot). Following failure to meet the deadline, the county sends a notice to each person that allows an additional 10 days to turn in the statement. If there is no response from that notice, a second specific notice is sent to each person that allows for an additional 15 days to file.

"If they don't respond after that notice, then we refer them to the FPPC," said Josefina Arvizu, who works for the Campaign Finance Disclosure Section of the county registrar's office. "After we send it to FPPC, that is out of our hands."

San Dimas High School Football Rules!

Bill and Ted and their most awesome ways may be back for a feature film that would turn the popular stoner comedy into a trilogy, says "Ted" Theodore Logan actor, the one and only, Keanu Reeves.

I remember reading some time back about Reeves wanting in on another Bill and Ted movie but his agent wanted none of that. Well, it looks like Reeves has his own agenda (which is cool that he has cast the wise career advise aside to pay homage to a cult classic).

The original film was set in San Dimas (despite being filmed in Arizona) and featured Raging Waters in the movie. The city recently stole the movie's slogan "Excellent Adventure" for its 50th anniversary celebration.

Honestly, what better news could there be today? Seriously? What? I can't think of anything.

And take some advice from Rufus and be excellent to each other today.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

Too much with the headline? I thought so too.

Anyway... If you are involved in the referendum issue in Azusa regarding Vulcan Materials' mining project, you are probably aware of the most recent fundraising snafu.

If you aren't, here is the short recap: Azusans Against Mining Expansion planned a fundraiser for the referendum effort at the Azusa American Legion.

Upon public notice (including a brief in the Tribune) of the event, the legion people got spooked because they feared people thought they were endorsing the referendum effort. Despite another public announcement (another brief in the Tribune) which stated the legion was a neutral party, the event was still canceled.

On the surface, the episode seems to border on the absurd while it sits in the realm of over reaction. Most people know that American Legions, VFWs and other community groups with event halls often rent out those spaces as a way to make a quick buck. In this case, the American Legion was more a location than an entity.

So why the fuss?

For the American Legion officials to react in such a way means their decision became controversial. The question is, how?

Was it public outcry? Possible.

The issue is contentious and the legion is a public facility meant for military personnel of varied political affiliations in Azusa. Maybe they had some angry residents make an issue out of it.

But that's unlikely.

While the Azusa Rock Quarry is controversial, most of the public outcry has been against the project with support coming at a more tempered tone and often from public officials or pockets of community members.

What is more likely is pressure from public officials. City Council, staff, business partners, Azusa business officials, someone with clout came forward upset with the legion's decision to host the event. That pressure spawned the political issue and thus the event's cancellation. Is that true? As of yet, I have nothing to suggest it is besides a whisper here and a grumbling there. But it seems like the most likely reason.

UPDATE: Spoke with councilman Uriel Macias, who has had his own events at the Legion and is a commissioned officer in the U.S. Navy, and he said he knew nothing about the issues with the Legion and AAME except what he read in the paper.

He said he heard rumors that he called the legion to pressure them out of the event, but called that assertion "ridiculous."

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

I imagined the song from Back to the Future when I wrote that headline. Sadly, all I have to show for it is weekend in review.

This story is a bit older than the weekend, but I wasn't here to post it. Cal Poly Pomona's iconic CLA building may be on its last leg. Officials are seeking to get rid of the pointed structure and replace it with a more efficient building. (FULL DISCLOSURE: I graduated from Cal Poly Pomona. The building is the face of the university. It is hard to believe it would be gone, but as a friend said "at least I still have the Gattaca DVD) (NOTE: The building was used in the movie Gattaca.)

Crystal Lake Campground is struggling to survive without Highway 39 (is there a theme running here?). With the highway project stalled, the campground is near shutting down.

And to brighten your spirits, the annual Route 66 Parade passed through Duarte. Check out the photo gallery when you get a chance.

UPDATE: I forgot to add. D Club is D Closed.

Glendora councilman Doug Tessitor was caught with his foot in his month last month when debating the merits of imposing a new set of contract restrictions on the general employees association.

Tessitor had said it was "BS" when the association claimed the police officers association and others made concessions to help spare the general employees association. It later came out - from the POA - that it was actually quite true.

To his credit, Tessitor owned it. He did so in the Tribune and made remarks at Glendora's council meeting Tuesday admitting his mistake. (Relevant discussion is at 33:30)

The one gripe I might have is that Tessitor says that POA President Mike Henderson told him the city rejected the POA's offer of taking a bullet for the GMEA.

When I spoke with Henderson, his characterization to me was that the city accepted their proposal, only to renege later in an effort to have equal cuts.

Henderson's words to me were: "After we made the concession they still pursued 3 percent and we found out that it was desired to have every group in the city give up the same amount." (italic emphasis added by me)

That doesn't exactly jive with Tessitor's recap of what happened.

The League of California Cities (doesn't the name make it seem like a superhero group?) released a survey today of city manager compensation from cities across the state. Of the 468 cities asked to participate, about 90 percent responded, according to a statement from the League of California Cities.

If you want to see the survey, click here.

The survey includes notes on additional benefits, but nothing detailed. The salary totals are the total income for the manager from their 2009 taxes, rather than a base salary.

Some immediate things that jumped out at me was Daryl Parish's income from 2009, which was a whopping $328,830. That sum includes a cash payout of sick and vacation time from a "previous employer" (probably Colton) of about 1400 hours over an 18 month period.

The city manager of Glendale, Jim Starbird, manages a city of more than 200,000 people and made $251,000 in 2009. Duarte's City Manager Darrell George manages a city of about 22,000 people and made $215,440. Glendora's City Manager Chris Jeffers made $234,000 for a city of 52,000 people. Robert Griego, Irwindale's former city manager, oversees a city of 1,717 and made $235,502. Don Hannah, La Habra's city manager made $171,903 with a city population of 62,822. Fran Delach, Azusa's city manager, made $252,000 for a city of more than 48,000. Santa Ana's City Manager David Ream makes $240,000 in a city of 357,000 people.

I don't see West Covina or Whittier on the list. CORRECTION: Whittier is on the list. A gap on the list fooled me into thinking it was the end. I feel like I finished a school test before everyone else, turned it in, only to later realize there was a back side I never knew about. Anyway, Whittier is $283,346 for Stephen Helvey.

Are any other local cities missing?

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

I am asking for trouble writing about this, so here is a warning:

This post is Vulcan related.

I covered the medical marijuana dispensary public hearing last night in Duarte where the Regional Planning Commission rejected a plan for one in an unincorporated county area in Arcadia, which is near El Monte, Baldwin Park, Duarte and Monrovia.

The first speaker was Margaret Finlay, mayor of Duarte, who compared the issue of the dispensary to that of her city's battle against Vulcan Materials Co.'s Azusa Rock Quarry mining plan.

"People that are for this are those who are doing to make money off of it," Finlay said of the mining plan. "I think this (dispensary plan) is a similar situation."

Leon San Blas, the applicant for the dispensary, said he was opening the business not to make money, but out of the goodness of his heart. San Blas, wheel chair bound himself, uses medical marijuana to relief pain.

I don't think too many people bought the "it's marijuana to help the community" business plan.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

In the continuing series by Slate.com regarding the inequality of wealth (which is a must read, IMHO) today's story deals with labor unions affect.

I thought this was a pertinent story because whenever we write stories about public salaries, the state budget, and other money related stories, labor unions is a recurring theme from reader comments.

(Yes, we reporters read your comments. A shocking admission, I'm sure.)

In addition, I have raised questions regarding public (which is often unionized) and private (declining unions) pay in this blog (here and here

So, I thought I would tack on this story as an addendum to the conversation, as well as an interesting read.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

The letter that Adams wrote to the Supreme Court, which was the basis for today's story taking a further look at the legal challenges surrounding Glendora's attempt to get redevelopment dollars for an area along Arrow Highway, hasn't been posted with the story online (yet?) but I wanted to make it available here for review.

It isn't a long read, so if you got two minutes to check it out and then reread the story, I would recommend it.

Adams Letter.pdf

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Mark me down a letter grade for bringing you the weekend's news this afternoon.

Economists have a tempered reaction to Jerry Brown's plan to create 500,000 new jobs.

Azusa approved a farmer's market that will operate as a filler at its ailing Block 36 parking lot.

There is a fight brewing in Rowland Heights. Residents advocating for the city to strictly adhere to its general plan are gearing up to battle a new high-density apartment complex.

As for tonight, there is a public hearing in Duarte to discuss a possible marijuana dispensary.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

Question: If you are an advocate against, say, a program supported by a foreign regime that provides both a) money and b) materials - which thing are you most angry about?

Hacienda-La Puente Unified School District officials are betting on the money.

After a long process that has included heated debate, claims of communist propaganda and tampering, and even a visit from the Daily Show with Jon Stewart, officials with the school district have decided to not accept money from the Chinese government to fund its Chinese language and culture program, although it will still operate under the name "Confucius Classroom."

The district will go without the $30,000 a year it would have received. But it will still use textbooks and other materials provided by Hanban, pending approval from a district committee.

So let me get this straight, after a lot of people spoke out against this program, the district is getting rid of the money, but is keeping all the materials - a.k.a. all the elements lots of people were very peeved and paranoid about - and that is supposed to smooth things over?

Excuse me for not believing this isn't exactly the end of this debate.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

This just in (and by that, I mean, I decided to write it right now): Farmer's market planned in Azusa will directly compete with Duarte's! SHOCKING.

Not really. I mean, it is just a farmer's market. But in a heated political environment where the two cities have battled and are now going to court regarding Vulcan Materials Co.'s Azusa Rock Quarry mining plan, I asked Azusa City Manager Fran Delach if the thought crossed his mind that the city's recently approved farmer's market falling at the same time as Duarte's would create a mini controversy. Keep in mind, during the debate over the quarry project, some Duarte city officials and residents threatened to boycott neighboring Azusa and businesses there.

"It is not our intention to compete or impede the Duarte market at all," Delach said. "It is not a money making venture on the part of either city. It is more a resource the community brings in for its residents. There are plenty of farmers and vendors to go around."

It would appear then that the non-existent controversy has ended. For now....

In the realm of real news, there will be more on Azusa's farmer's market in tomorrow's newspaper.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

What an ungracious guest. When someone throws a party for you, you should probably show up. In the classic words of the formidable scholar Stephanie from Full House "How rude."

You see, the former Bell Mayor George Cole is under investigation by the California Attorney General's Office for some dealings he had while he was mayor. He was also on the City Council when it voted to change its charter that allowed allowed all those bloated salaries.

Anyway, apparently Montebello's Housing Development Corporation think highly of Mr. Cole and wanted to honor him for his community work.

But Cole skipped the gala. He probably had a head cold or something. It probably didn't have anything to do with the media there or the angry protesters that were waiting for him outside. Of course not.

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I don't know what Ron said that was so funny, but from all the way down there I am surprised Congresswoman Grace Napolitano heard it.

I kid, I kid.

This was the Congresswoman with the Lakers star at their mental health assembly at a Montebello school Thursday. Rep. Napolitano isn't known for her ... shall I say ... lengthy physique, but Artest makes her look like a character from Gulliver's Travels. The man is a GIANT.

P.S. - Fake captions for this photo are encouraged in the comment section below.

(Double P.S. - No offense intended toward the Congresswoman. We appreciate the photo!)

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

L.A. Lakers champ and Rep. Grace Napolitano, D-Santa Fe Springs, visited Eastmont Intermediate School to talk to children about accessing mental health services and battling stigmas associated with seeking help, they said. Artest was greeted with loud cheers.

Artest told about 700 5th-to-8th graders about challenges he faced growing up in Queens after his parents divorced when he was 13. He said he sought counseling to help him deal with anger and hold his marriage together. Unlike in previous public appearances, Artest was wearing all his clothes, button-down but casual in a sports coat and jeans.

Napolitano, a long-time promoter of mental health services, revealed some of her own personal struggles when she acknowledged she was molested as a small child.

"At that time, nobody talked about it. This was a big secret," she said after the presentation.

Afterward, Napolitano and Artest moved to a room off to the side of the stage where media could interview them. Artest was so tightly cornered by about 10 news cameras and reporters that I at first had trouble finding the 6'7" athlete. But he was gracious with everyone and slipped out a side door after about 15 minutes of taking questions.

(via reporter Bethania Palma Markus)

Just got off the phone with an officials from Dalia's Italian Ristorante, which had their grand opening today that featured free pizza for a year to the first 100 customers.

Well, since more than 100 people showed up in line, the owner was feeling generous and is apparently handing out the free pizza credit to the additional people above 100.

For the people who stood in line, they will get a free pizza every Tuesday for a year. That's 52 days times 100 people ... (drop the zeros, 52 times 1 is 52) so that's 5,200 pizzas for free.

UPDATE: Apparently more than 200 free pizza vouchers were given out, reporter Thomas Himes tells me. That could mean more than 10,000 free pizzas could be given out by Dalia's in Azusa over the next 52 weeks.

UPDATE THE SEQUEL: Got this via tweet "AzusaPacificNow @dgtedford Students are all lined up outside Dalia's for the free pizza. I even saw a tent out there."

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

I'm not sure Dalia's Pizza fully understands the implications of what they have done.

The restaurant is offering free pizza for a year to its first 100 customers Thursday in celebration of its grand opening. The restaurant opens at 10 a.m.

Let me repeat that: First 100 customers. Thursday (tomorrow). Dalia's Italian Ristorante. Free Pizza for one year.

The restaurant is located at 855 E. Alosta Ave., Azusa.

Do they know they have two colleges nearby? This place is going to get trampled to the ground on the first day it opens.

The owner, Fadl Fares, is billing the charitable act as a thank you to the city who gave him loan assistance to expand what is normally a small pizza place into a full Italian restaurant.

Dalia's already has pizza stores across Los Angeles and San Bernardino Counties, including Covina and West Covina. (Full disclosure: I like their pizza and my old roommate used to order it twice a week. He loves their alfredo pasta)

Officials with Dalia's said they expect people to line up over night for this opportunity.

Now all some of those college students need is someone to spot them free beer for the next year and they will be living the life! Wait? APU is a dry campus? Oh...well then. Free pizza with a nice glass of Coca-Cola!

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

It an elegantly worded letter (sarcasm) the Office of Mining Reclamation responded to Azusa's financial assurance cost estimate submitted regarding the reclamation bond for Vulcan Materials Co.'s Azusa Rock Quarry mining plan.

The bond would serve as insurance for the planned reclamation, which Vulcan has billed as a more innovative, technologically advanced and environmentally friendly way to reshape the hillsides post-mining.

OMR found the $81 million bond to be "adequate" and had no further comments on its "adequacy."

Now that OMR sees the cost estimate is "adequate", Azusa now needs to file the bond with the agency within 30 days, according to the letter.

You can view the letter for yourself following the absurdly titled link below.

SKMBT%5F75110090716510.pdf

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

Considering my earlier post regarding wages and questions of public v. private sector jobs, I thought an article (a series, in fact) over at Slate.com offered some interesting insight into working, wages and money in America.

The series is looking at inequality of wealth and, as NY Times columnist Paul Krugman called it, the Great Divergence. I don't want to go into much more detail on the articles as they speak for themselves, much better than I could for them. If you are interested, follow the link.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

As part of the ongoing legal battle filed by Duarte against Azusa's approval of Vulcan Materials Co.'s Azusa Rock Quarry mining project, the three parties will have a meeting next Tuesday.

In a case like this, the court mandates a settlement hearing for the three sides to discuss any options that could prevent the issue from going to court. A mediator for the meeting is possible, officials said.

All three parties will be there, but expectations are limited. Previous settlement talks between the groups have broken down, and since then heated rhetoric has been exchanged between both city staffs.

Azusa's City Manager Fran Delach said the city remains open to talks with Duarte, but that he has no expectations going into the meeting.

"I think there is always a possibility of getting a settlement," he said.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

Did you enjoy those three long days off? So did I. Although, the catch-22 is that it always makes that first day back that much more difficult.

Anyway, if you are struggling to get into that work mode, here are a few stories from the weekend to pass the time (oh, and make you a better, informed citizen of the republic and all that).

Reporter Thomas Himes did a long researched piece on city attorney fees that showed cities with their own police departments often pay more in legal fees, according to city documents and records for the last fiscal year.

Covina's police chief made his position known on the a proposition to legalize marijuana. (SPOILER: He is not a fan)

Well, despite a huge push this year for the Census - including hundreds of millions of dollars spent - it looks like national participation is down. The good news? San Gabriel Valley participation is better than the national average. The bad news? It also dipped below 2000 Census totals.

Finally, as a recent post alluded too, Glendora goes for the trifecta in asking the Supreme Court to hear its case after the county won two court cases regarding a redevelopment area designation.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

A few months back we reported on Glendora's failed attempt to appeal a previous trial court decision (initiated and won by the county) that wouldn't allow Glendora to claim portions of the city as blighted, and thus be in line for millions in redevelopment funds.

Well, Glendora is now asking for the California Supreme Court to hear the case and should hear back within weeks. More in tomorrow's paper.

One of the questions regarding this issue was how much the city has spent on pursuing, what has been thus far, a losing battle.

Some speakers at recent city council meetings claimed the city spent more than $800,000 in legal fees. That doesn't appear to be the case.

According to city records, the city has spent $459,714 in legal fees since the complaint against the city was filed by Los Angeles County in Sept. 2006. Those funds are taken from the city's redevelopment agency fund and not the general city fund.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

In today's paper, reporter Maritza Velazquez has a story about how the Walnut Valley Unified Board of Education's decision to fire its recently rehired superintendent is going to cost the district hundreds of thousands of dollars.

From the story:

"The district in February renewed the contract for former Superintendent Cyndy Simms and will pay her $295,500 over the next 18 months. Then the board ousted her Aug. 11."

In addition, "The board recently approved a $14,842-a-month contract agreement to employ interim Superintendent Charles McCully, who will serve in a temporary position for three to five months. They will also pay him $1,000 a month for automobile and housing expenses."

In a time when schools are hard pressed for funds, districts are laying off teachers and staff, and the future is uncertain, the board must have good reason to make such a fiscally detrimental decision. Unfortunately, they haven't been willing to give one.

Instead, following the unanimous vote, the board said the split was "amicable" and amounted to nothing more than a difference in leadership and management style that apparently was worth spending about $16,000 a month for her to be gone. This when the district is facing a $3.3 million budget deficit.

I have never been fired from a job before, but I hope if I ever do, it can work out as well as this one. $16,000 a month to fire her? I have friends who have stayed with girlfriends they didn't like just because they needed a ride to work and didn't want to pay for the bus.

The board has to wonder, will this be easy for taxpayers, and voters, to swallow?

(NOTE: I am not saying their decision to fire her was wrong or right. What do I know? Exactly. Nothing, which, conveniently, is my point. When you fire someone after rehiring them and decide to pay them bags of money a month - granted it will probably be in check form, like one of those giant checks they give for winning a golf tournament - you should have a really good reason. A REALLY good reason. Not a, well, she butted heads with the Spanish teacher and you have a difference of opinion on positive reinforcement versus constructive criticism. I mean, you rehired her, shouldn't you already know her management style? Your reason better be that she was somehow detrimental to the education of the school children or seriously hampered the work environment, otherwise what reason is there?)

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

A quick note going back to the recent impasse between Glendora and the municpal employees association where the council forced a one year contract on the association with several concessions.

In years past, the City Manager or other members of the city's executive team would handle negotiations with the association. This year the city hired Richard Kreisler to handle negotiations for the city with all its employee associations, teamed with Deputy City Manager Brenda Fischer and Finance Director Josh Betta.

The total cost for Kreisler's services (contracted through Liebert, Cassidy, Whitmore Legal Fees)
is $42,797 since March 2010.

Kreisler's pay breaks down like this:

He was paid $6,682.05 for work ending March 31, 2010.
- $1,296 for work on the Glendora Manager's Association.
- $1,039.05 for work on the Glendora Municipal Employees Association.
- $2,727 for work with the Police Officer's Association.
- $1,620 for work with the Police Manager's Association

For work completed between April 1 and April 30, he was paid $9,855.
- $5,427 for work with GMA.
- $1,161 for work with GMEA.
- $324 for work with POA.
- $2,943 for work with PMA.

For work between May 1 and May 31 he received $6,804.
- $2,106 for GMA
- $2,889 for GMEA
- $783 for POA
- $1,026 for PMA

For work between June 1 and June 30 he was paid $10,681.32. All of that work was with the GMEA. He was also paid $1,701 for work with the GMA during that time.

For work between July 1 and July 31, he received $6,993 for work with the GMEA.

He finally received $81 for work with the GMA at the end of July.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

Apparently, Azusa's Cool Kutz for Kids was a success, so says a press release I got yesterday.

The event aimed to give children preparing for their first day of school a free hair cut to relieve some burden off the parents while giving kids the opportunity to look sharp on the first day of school.

More than 200 children showed for the event, which features Azusa based barbers and hair stylists performing to cuts.

And then they sent them off to school with fancy new hair-dos, a lesson in charity, and the mistaken knowledge that cuts is spelled kutz.

And if you are going to spell cuts funky for alliteration purposes (or just to be hip) why not go all the way and spell cool "kool." Just saying.

(As a side note, when I was in grade school I would often wear my old clothes and would put off getting a hair cut for the first week of school when EVERYONE else was looking all clean and new. Instead, I would wear all my new duds and got my hair did on the second week when everyone else's new shine had already begun to dim.)

Here is a snippet of Azusa's press release:

AZUSA, Ca--September 1, 2010--On Sunday, August 29, Azusa Mayor Pro Tem, Robert Gonzales kicked-off the second annual "Cool Kuts for Kids" free back-to-school hair cut event at Memorial Park in Azusa. Over 200 school-aged children from Azusa and Irwindale showed-up to received free professional back-to-school hair cuts from stylists and barbers who daily work in Azusa.
"I can't begin to express the immense senses of gratification that overcame me seeing all those kids with their "Cool Kuts" and smiles," said Gonzales. "They are now ready to face the new school year with some very special free back-to-school goodie bags that every child received with their "Cool Kut."
This year's "Cool Kutz for Kids II" was sponsored by Azusa Mayor, Joe Rocha and Council Member, Uriel Macias, as well as Target Stores, Vulcan Materials and Azusa's Fraternal Order of Eagles, Aerie 2810. Target Stores donated free gift cards, Vulcan Materials contributed free dictionaries and backpacks and the Eagles Aerie 2810 donated some much needed school supplies.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

OK, maybe you need like a time and place, oh and the reason world champion Los Angeles Laker and game 7 hero Ron Artest is going to be in Montebello tomorrow.

Apparently, he has teamed up with Congresswoman Grace Napolitano (no, really, I'm serious) to raise awareness about mental health stigma's and advocate for the Mental Health in Schools Act, a.k.a. HR 2531.

Those who watched the Lakers beat the Celtics in this year's NBA Finals remember Ron thanking his psychiatrist in his post game comments.

Ron Ron and Grace Grace (not working for ya?) will be at Eastmont Intermediate School at 9 a.m. Thursday, Sept 9. (I screwed up an earlier post and said this was tomorrow. It is a week from tomorrow.)

Sorry sports fans, space is limited and they are only accepting those who R.S.V.P. first.

Sorry if I teased you.

UPDATED: Nathan Landers, spokesman for Napolitano, tells me that the Montebello school involved is already practicing some of the mental health items that are proposed in the bill. Apparently, the Congresswoman started the health program there previously.

Also, apparently we are friends with NBC sports. Nice.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

The much troubled Rosedale community in Azusa has some new owners.

Christopher Development Group and Brookfield Homes Southland Group have partnered to take control of Rosedale Land Partners in a deal that closed escrow Tuesday afternoon, according to a statement.

Brookfield is the real new player in this deal and will assist Christopher Gibb's company in completing the 517-acre community. Gibbs was originally part of Azusa Land Partners, the first joint venture that started the Rosedale project. At that time, Gibbs was with PLC Land Company.

Much of the community has been on hold for about two years because of the housing market collapse.

The original community project was opened in 2006 by Azusa Land Partners with 1,250 homes planned, 10 parks, a local school, fire station, and a recreation center.

Today much of the amenities aren't finished or haven't been started and only 125 homes are built and occupied.

In July, the Agres Group confirmed it had purchased a portion of the project and hoped to start building 96 news homes later this year.

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune

Police, in an undercover venture, arrested eight people in Covina Tuesday night for illegal poker games.

This doesn't appear to just be some friendly mates deciding to sit down for a game of hold 'em at $10 a piece. It was in a bar, The Well, and there were multiple tables.

I wonder how long the police "played along" before locking their opponents up?

Scene*
Dealer: "That ends the betting. Show 'em what you got."
Cop: "I have three kings. Read 'em and weep."
Opposing player: "Check that. I have a flush."
Cop: (Drops badge on the table over the poker chips) "Can you beat that?"

*The depicted scene is a fictional scenario and does not represent any actual events or persons. Please don't give me any parking tickets.

Anyway, this isn't the first time The Well bar in Covina has made it into the news. It was also reported to be one of the Covina bars that Andrew Gallo, the man suspected of murder in the car crash death of Angels pitcher Nick Adenhart, Diamond Bar resident Courtney Stewart, and Henry Pearson, was drinking at prior to the Fullerton crash..

Email: daniel.tedford@sgvn.com | Twitter: @dgtedford @sgvtribune | Facebook: SGVTribune