September 2010 Archives
CANDIDATE: P. Joseph Lenz
AGE: 69
OCCUPATION: Retired
YEARS LIVING IN DISTRICT: 44 years
MARRIED?: yes
NO. OF CHILDREN: 2 adult sons
COLLEGES, DEGREES: Bachelor of Arts in Sociology from California State University, Los Angeles Master of Science, corrections Pepperdine University
RUN FOR ELECTED OFFICE BEFORE?: re-elected six times to the Upland Unified School District Board of Trustees
COMMUNITY OFFICES OR ORGANIZATIONS: San Bernardino County Committee on School District Organization, committee member representing the second supervisorial district
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?: I am seeking re-election for this office because I want to continue to provide the very best balanced curriculum that will enable our students to become life long learners. I believe all students must be challenged to realize their full potential. They must develop intellectually, physically, socially and emotionally. This is achieved through a balanced curriculum that has continued despite substantial budget reductions. I pledge my continued unwavering commitment of time and energy to oversee fiscal responsibility, maintain the high level of trust with employee groups and the community as well as provide the very best academic programs and facilities for our students.
CANDIDATE: Michael J. Varela
AGE: 61
OCCUPATION: Probation Director for the Department of Justice Bureau
YEARS LIVING IN THE DISTRICT: 37 years
MARRIED?: yes
NO. OF CHILDREN: one
COLLEGES, DEGREES: Bachelor of Science from Cal Poly Pomona in 1971, Master's Degree from Pepperdine University in 1979.
RUN FOR ELECTED OFFICE BEFORE?: First elected to the Upland Unified School District Board of Trustees in 1981. Currently Serving as President.
COMMUNITY OFFICES OR ORGANIZATIONS: Endorsements: Upland Teachers Association, Upland Managers Association and the Upland Chapter of the California Service Employees Association.
Previous Community Involvement: Chairman of the Upland Housing Authority, Vice-chairman of the Upland Parks and Recreation Committee, Board member for the West End Boys and Girls Club.
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?: During the past 29 years, it has been an honor to represent the Upland community. Also, to be a part of a team that has highly respected teachers and staff. The outstanding partnership between parents,
teachers and students has resulted in receiving 11 California Distinguished School Awards and 7 Title 1 Academic Achieving Award Schools. I will continue working to ensure your children attend schools that are not only safe and well maintained but have the most effective learning environment. Approval of Measure K bonds is currently being used to transform schoolrooms into state of the art "21st century classrooms."
CANDIDATE: Wes Fifield
AGE: 44
OCCUPATION: Small Business Owner, based in Upland.
YEARS OF LIVING IN DISTRICT: 13 years
MARRIED?: yes
NO. OF CHILDREN: one 14-year-old daughter and one 13-year-old son.
COLLEGES, DEGREES: A degree in Biochemistry and Cell Biology with minors in Psychology and Managerial Accounting, from University of California San Diego.
RUN FOR ELECTED OFFICE BEFORE?: currently serving on the Upland Unified School Board. Appointed in March 2005 and elected in November 2005.
COMMUNITY OFFICES OR ORGANIZATION: Basketball, Soccer, and Baseball Coach, Vice Chairmen for the Scheu Family YMCA of Upland, Co-chairman on the Upland Traffic Safety Committee, Member of the board on the San Antonio Hospital Foundation, Upland High Regiment Band Dad, Assistant Scoutmaster, PTA Treasurer and Parliamentarian
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?:
During my almost 6 years as a Board Member all of our schools and student groups
have continued to improve, while the district's API average test score now exceeds
the state target. We have been awarded 10 California Distinguished School Awards
for our efforts. I am proud that our schools provide educational programs that are
innovative with technology training that will prepare all students for jobs in the 21st
century. We have been fiscally conservative, but have faced and will continue to face
many difficult decisions over the next several years. I can provide the experience and
proven leadership to ensure that we will make the right decisions.
CANDIDATE: Robert H. Bennett or "Bob"
CAMPAIGN WEBSITE:
http://home.earthlink.net/~bennettbnt/
AGE: 58
OCCUPATION: County Manager and Landlord
YEARS LIVING IN DISTRICT: lived in Upland and San Antonio Heights for 41 years
MARRIED?: yes
NO. OF CHILDREN: one 12-year-old daughter.
COLLEGES, DEGREES: Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and M.S.W. in social work - children, youth and family from California State University San Bernardino
RUN FOR ELECTED OFFICE BEFORE?: candidate for Upland Unified School District since 2001
COMMUNITY OFFICES OR ORGANIZATIONS: Nationally Accredited Social Worker (A.C.S.W.) with the National Association of Social Work, Licensed Clinical Social Worker (L.C.S.W.) with the State of California, National Adult Protective Service Association member - N.A.P.S.A., President of the Uplander Village Condominium Association - Upland, Ca. -1977-1979, Orchard Lane II Condominium Association - Upland, Ca. President - 1986 Vice-President - 1987 Treasurer- 1988, Vice-President of California State University, San Bernardino, Department of Social Work Student Association - 1993, Talk Radio KORG Broadcast on Adult Protective Services - 1989/1991, Governing Board Member of the West End Family Counseling Services - 2004-Present, Assistance League of the Foothill Communities - PAL Member, Community Cable Television Broadcast - Aging and Adult Services - 2004 and 2010, Guest Lecturer at Chaffey College, Adjunct faculty member at California State University, San Bernardino - 2001 to 2009, Camp La Verne Incorporated (501-C3) - Treasurer - 2001 to the Present
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?:
The children, parents and families of the Upland Unified School District deserve an
honest and transparent Governing Board which I will provide. I have been a student,
teacher and now a parent within the school district. I am a member in the U.U.S.D.
- PTA, Assistance League-PALS and a church deacon. I have been a District PTA
representative at the annual California State PTA conference and a PTA room parent.
I have worked and volunteered in the public/private field of education and social work
for over 33 years. I am resourceful and honest in my business, management and
educational approaches.
The Upland Highland Regiment was briefly showcased on CBS Channel 2 today.
The band and color guard have been working to raise money to help get them to the 122nd Tournament of Roses Parade on Jan. 1 and CBS noticed.
However, there are some inaccuracies in the broadcast. The raffle is Sunday at 2 p.m. and the Mini Cooper they are raffling off was not donated.
But it's not too late to purchase tickets.
The students will be selling tickets for $25 a piece outside the band room at Upland High School, 565 W. 11th Street from 7 to 9 p.m.
The raffle will be at the Mini of Ontario dealership, 1251 Auto Center Dr.
Other prizes include $2,500 in cash and a 42-inch flat screen television.
Even with the raffle tickets they are still in need of funds.
The Regiment has grown by a full bus size this year which is adding to their already tight transportation costs.
They will need to raise at least $40,000 to help get them to the Parade.
There is also a need for new uniforms.
To donate visit www.uhrb.org and click the on Rose Parade links. Donations can also be mailed to UHRB
at P.O. Box 271 Upland 91785.
View the broadcast here
The Association of Los Angeles' Up for Down Chapter is hosting its first annual Joann & James Jennings Memorial Golf Tournament on Oct. 1 at the Upland Hills Country Club, 1231 E. 16th St.
The tournament will begin at noon.
It will benefit the San Gabriel Valley and Inland Empire Up for Down sub-group, a network and information group for families of individuals with Down Syndrome. The group provides workshops, social events, sports activities, educational seminars and other vital programs that assist these individuals in reaching their full potential.
The tournament is named after Joann Jennings, co-leader of Up for Down/DSALA and her son James, who was born with Down syndrome. Jennings will be honored for her service to those with special needs. She lost her battle with liver cancer at age 53 in June 2006. James passed away three years later due to complications of the flu.
Entrance fee is $100 per player and includes a box lunch, goodie bag, dinner, awards banquet, raffle and silent auction.
For more information call Anthony Verches at 909-917-3115.
All donations are tax deductible.
A former member of the San Antonio Water Co. Board of Directors is accusing two board members of violating conflict-of-interest laws.
Ken McNeil of San Antonio Heights filed a complaint with the San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office accusing Ken Willis and Tom Thomas of signing a water service agreement between San Antonio and the city of Upland prematurely without authorization from the water board.
Willis and Thomas are also Upland City Council members.
McNeil said the signed agreement benefits the city so a conflict of interest may have occurred.
California law states that members of the Legislature and other local officers or employees cannot have a financial interest in any contract made by them in their official capacity, or by any body or board of which they are members.
"I don't think you have to prove that it necessarily unfairly benefits anyone," McNeil said. "It's just the process is not right."
The signed agreement is dated Dec. 8, 2008, but the agreement was not approved until a Feb. 17, 2009, water board meeting, according to minutes from a water company board meeting.
Continue reading Two accused of unjust deal.
Peggy Linberg, of Upland, recently won first place in the 2010 L.A. County Fair Perfect Guacamole Contest. Linberg won with her Cobb-amole.
Winners of the Perfect Guacamole Contest at the 2010 L.A. County Fair.
From left: Barrie Linberg, daughter of first place-winner Peggy Linberg of Upland; Gayle Bauer of La Verne, second place for her Guac Your World Guacamole; and April Burton of Rowland Heights, third place for her Guacamole a la Mom. (courtesy photo)
The first few days of school may not be as exciting for many students as it was for some students at Upland Junior High School.
The students in Jason Craig's Exploring Technology class at Upland Junior High School spent their first days designing, fabricating and testing the Hovercraft.
Craig was absent on the first day of school because he was serving Jury Duty, but when he returned the next day, the students were surprised with a whirlwind of activity within their newly updated classroom.
Students saw the new computers, desks, chairs, walls and projectors that had been installed.
Students from Upland Junior High, Pioneer Junior High and Upland High School are able to enroll in Science Technology Engineering Math (STEM) based classes.
The classes are hands-on and applied learning classes where students not only learn basic theory, but put the theory to practical use with a problem/solution mindset.
Craig allowed his students to explore possible solutions to a variety of problems that he assigns during his 13-week course, Exploring Technology.
Continue reading Students at Upland Junior High explore technology .
Some of Upland High School's athletic and academic programs have been saved thanks to a donation from a local developer.
The Colonies-Pacific, LLC recently donated $25,000 to Upland High.
"We're going to be able to restore many of the cuts that we were looking at making into some of these co-curricular programs that we really value, but the classroom has to be first and looking at whatever is left and it's not much," Upland High Principal Ben Rich said.
Officials from Colonies-Pacific, which owns the Colonies Crossroads shopping center in northeast Upland, requested that half of their donation be used for athletic programs and the rest for academic programs.
"We made a huge cut in athletic program this year. Mainly, in the area of transportation for football and basketball," Rich said. "The kids have been out fundraising and doing their darndest to help backfill that. Half of this money will go to restore a good portion of that."
Upland resident Jim Sheridan said he approached developer Jeff Burum about the cuts being made to the athletic department. Burum is a co-managing partner of Colonies-Pacific.
"I had just approached Jeff because there was a need within the school district," said Sheridan, whose son was on the football team. "They have given to many organizations in the past. I know him and the partners to be extremely generous, and they came through and really didn't want any notoriety or anything. It was just a great gesture."
Continue reading Colonies donates funds to Upland High School.
By Jannise Johnson, Staff Writer
Tucked in a space between a smoke shop and an outlet discount store, the 26th Annual Crafts Fair attracted several vendors and customers Sunday afternoon.
Many of the vendors sold Halloween-themed items. There were candles in the shapes of candy corns, handmade clothing items, fall wreaths, and dozens of decorations for both the house and yard for those who like to celebrate Halloween.
Vicki Vicario is the owner and promoter for the event. "This is the 26th year," of the show, she said. "There are about 60 crafters here. This is what they do to make a living."
The craft show is held at different locations several times a year throughout the Inland Empire area, Vicario said.
In addition to the fall-themed items, there were novelties such as wine and liquor bottles that were decorated with sports team logos, scented diffusers, handmade pot holders and baked items.
The Old Town Bakery in Rancho Cucamonga had a booth that sold everything from thumb print cookies to whole grain breads and cakes.
Ceci Shaw, the bakery booth vendor, said all products are made without preservatives.
Crafts Unlimited continued its three-day run Sunday. It will be back at the Mountain Square Center, 380 S. Mountain Ave., beginning Nov. 3 and will run through Nov. 7, Vicario said.
The city is preparing to revitalize one of downtown's most used streets.
C Street will be revamped from Euclid Avenue to 3rd Avenue as part of the C Street Revitalization Project.
"Like any capital project we do in downtown is geared toward improving the infrastructure or the aesthetic of downtown," Redevelopment Director Jeff Zwack said.
The $63,475 project was awarded to Orange-based Kabbara Engineering.
Construction documents are expected to be completed in January and construction will follow soon thereafter, according to the staff report.
The project had already been budgeted for the current fiscal year.
To further business development, the agency will revitalize C Street to link the Civic Center with the business and restaurant core.
View ON15-COUNCIL in a larger map
Continue reading Upland to revamp C Street.
By Diana Sholley, Staff Writer
Bored in school, Walter Noehren got some advice from his father that changed the course of his life.
"My father told me to join the Navy," said Noehren, a 93-year-old Upland resident. "He told me I could see the world and learn a trade. Sounded good to me."
Noehren enlisted in 1936 and became an electrician.
When World War II broke it was pure luck that kept Noehren out of harm's way.
"I was stationed on the USS Fulton and in early December we were going to take her out on a shake-down cruise," he said, referring to the ship's test-run. "Our captain was given a choice whether to go to Pearl Harbor or to the Panama Canal. He flipped a coin: heads we'd go to Pearl Harbor; tails to Panama. It was tails."
Korean War veteran Walter Noehren, 93, holds a picture of himself taken during the war as he talks about his experiences, in his Upland home. (Will Lester/Staff Photographer)
Continue reading Upland resident was on the firing line.
A contested traffic sign at Foothill Boulevard and Benson Avenue has been removed.
The "no right (turn) on red" sign has been removed after the city concluded the sign was not necessary. The sign was posted May 18 after the removal of a "no U-turn" sign at the left-turn lane heading west on Foothill Boulevard. The contested sign prevented motorists heading north on Benson from turning right onto Foothill when the light is red.
The city removed the sign after monitoring the intersection for four months and finding that very few motorists make U-turns, Upland Public Works Director Anthony La said.
Walter Bigos, a retired Los Angeles County sheriff's deputy, has been fighting the city over the sign since his 21-year-old son was ticketed in May. Bigos contends that the sign was improperly posted and the city should have given motorists notice or a grace period.
"It's not a victory for me, it's a victory for the people of Upland," Bigos said. "There was no justification for putting it up."
Continue reading Upland removes "no right on red" sign.
By Wes Woods II, Staff Writer
LOS ANGELES - A $50,000 reward is being offered after a passing white van shot and killed a 23-year-old Upland woman.
Los Angeles Police Department homicide detectives are looking for the suspects who killed Shaquana Watson around 9 p.m. July 27 in the 5300 block of S. Broadway in Los Angeles, according to a Los Angeles Police Department news release.
Members of the Los Angeles City Council on Monday offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of suspects in Watson's homicide.
The suspects shot at several men walking on the sidewalk behind where Watson's car was parked and she was hit.
The suspects went north on Broadway after the shooting, and gunfire didn't hit anyone else.
Watson was drove to the area of 50th Street and Flower Street and paramedics later transported her to a local hospital where she died from her injuries.
The suspects remain outstanding.
Anyone with information can call Newton Homicide Detective Richard Arciniega or Julio Benavides at 323-846-6556. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls can call 1-877-LAPD-24-7. Anyone wishing to be anonymous cam call Crimestoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). People can also contact Crimestoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone.
The 6th annual Megan Savage Memorial Run is happening Saturday at McCarthy Park, 2046 N. San Antonio Ave., in Upland.
The event is hosted by Upland-based non-profit, Megan's Wings Foundation. Proceeds from the event will go toward the non-profits efforts to seek out and support cutting edge childhood cancer research and improve the care and quality of life of children and their families fighting cancer.
Registration costs from Sept. 12-23 is $20 for kids and $30 for adults.
Cost to registration the day of the race is $25 for kids and $35 for adults.
For more information visit: http://www.meganswings.org/
Continue reading Megan Savage Memorial Run to be held Saturday.
The Upland Chamber of Commerce is hosting it's September Luncheon from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday at the Sycamore Inn, 8318 Foothill Blvd. In Rancho Cucamonga.
State Sen. Bob Dutton, R-Rancho Cucamonga, will be speak on "What happens in Sacramento doesn't stay in Sacramento - the impact of state government regulations on the business community and what you can do about it."
There will be 30 minutes of networking prior to Dutton's speech.
The event is sponsored by The Nevills Co., APC.
Information: 909-204-4465.
Athletes at Western Christian High School are hosting a community yard sale from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday in the high school's parking lot, 100 W. 9th Street.
The sports teams will be selling a large selection of tools, clothes, shoes and coats for all ages, furniture as well as a variety of other items.
All proceeds will benefit the Western Christian athletes and clubs.
People who wish to sell their own items can purchase two parking spots for $30.
Donations in good sellable condition will also be accepted.
For more information call 909-908-0044.
Band and color guard students in the Upland Highland Regiment have earned the honor of representing Upland and the Inland Empire in the 122nd Tournament of Roses Parade on Jan. 1.
However, along with the opportunity the students have also been burdened with the task of raising thousands of dollars to help get them there.
The Regiment is looking to the community for assistance in their journey to the parade this year due to budget cuts.
The Rose Parade adds a need of about $40,000 more than year's budget.
Currently the students in band and color guard are selling raffle tickets for a new Mini Cooper. Tickets are $25.
The raffle will be held on Sept. 26 at Mini of Ontario, 1251 Auto Center Drive in Ontario.
Tickets will be sold from 7 to 9 p.m. today outside the band room at Upland High School, 565 W. 11th St.
Community discount cards and entertainment books will also be available for sale.
Upland High School Principal Ben Rich, said the faculty and staff have been doing their best to buy tickets and get the word out.
"Not only is money tight, but they've taken on an added responsibility this year because of their success last year at the L.A. County fair," Rich said. "So that's going to cost them a lot of money. They're looking at cleaning up their uniforms and getting new banners."
The Regiment last marched in the Parade in 1991 and will once again due to a winning performance in September 2009 during the L.A. County Fair's High School Band Competition.
"This honor brings not only excitement for the 231 member band, but also many more added costs," said Shannon Mead, Communications Director for the Regiment's Booster Board. "Not only is the band larger this year as compared to last, we have two additional events for the kids to perform in during the weeks prior to the Rose Parade. We have added transportation costs, as well as a need to repair and replace instruments and uniforms."
Fore more information on the Regiment and fundraisers visit www.uhrb.org
The Uplanders Club is hosting a Hawaiian Luau from 6 to 10 p.m. Sept. 25 at the home of Tom and Ann Thomas.
Guests are encouraged to attend in Hawaiian attire. They can enjoy island cuisine.
Entertainment will be provided by Ke Ahola O Ka Hula.
Cost is $25 per person.
Guests are asked to RSVP by Saturday.
For more information and to RSVP call Kathy Kelcher at 909-946-7471.
CANDIDATE: Tom R. Thomas
CAMPAIGN WEBSITE: http://www.tomthomas.org/ or Tom Thomas Upland City Council Facebook
AGE: 57
OCCUPATION: Commercial Insurance Broker
YEARS OF LIVING IN CITY: 27 years
MARRIED?: yes
NO. OF CHILDREN: 3 children, 1 grandchild
COLLEGES, DEGREES: Degree in Business Administration from the University of Nebraska
RUN FOR ELECTED OFFICE BEFORE?: Upland City Council since 1990
COMMUNITY OFFICES OR ORGANIZATIONS: Upland Planning Commission from 1987 to 1990, Six Basins Watermaster Board, YMCA Board, Upland Library Board, Traffic Safety Advisory Committee, Upland Community Foundation, Upland Police Foundation, San Antonio Water Company Board, Tour de Foothills Committee, Upland Sister City Association
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?: To continue my long standing commitment to our community with proven leadership skills for positive results. I have consistently voted for balanced city budgets while maintaining a 25 percent operating reserve during these difficult economic times. I voted to approve the recently completed Fire Station No. 4 and new animal shelter without borrowing any funds. With our many involvements and friendships we have developed roots in this community that are both deep and strong. I believe in ethical, open and honest City Hall that encourages citizen input. With your vote we can keep our city government responsive, efficient and cost effective.
CANDIDATE: Ray Musser
CAMPAIGN WEBSITE:
AGE: 74
OCCUPATION: Insurance and Investments
YEARS LIVING IN CITY: 53 years
MARRIED?: yes
NO. OF CHILDREN: 4 children, 7 grandchildren, 1 great granddaughter
COLLEGES, DEGREES: Messiah College, Upland College 2 years
RUN FOR ELECTED OFFICE BEFORE: Upland City Council from 1998 to
present
COMMUNITY OFFICES OR ORGANIZATIONS?: Appointments: City/School,
Sister City, Upland Community Housing.
Participate: Upland Community Foundation, Upland Police Foundation, Upland Foothill Kiwanis Club, Upland Chamber of Commerce, Upland Sister City, Upland Heritage, Pomona Valley Estate Planners, Inland Empire Health Underwriters, California City Housing Authority, Council Representative for Boy & Girl Scouts Awards
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?: Leadership, integrity and accountability are the three cornerstones of government.
Building a better future for Upland means putting the concerns of our people first. My
priorities are:
• PUBLIC SAFETY - Maintain a high level of police and fire personnel and clean
up deteriorated areas. Make public safety our top budget priority.
• FISCAL RESPONSIBILTY - Limit fees to protect residents from excessive
charges for water, trash, sewer and other services. Continue the repair of streets,
sidewalks and alleys. Support improving education of the Upland School District.
Help create more jobs.
• QUALITY OF LIFE - Strengthen community standards to preserve home values
and open areas. Support San Antonio Community Hospital and its expansion
program.
• OPEN GOVERNMENT - Improve communications with local residents. Insist
on public "light of day" scrutiny of city contracts and agreements.
I would be honored to earn your vote and serve as your Councilman.
CANDIDATE: Gino L. Filippi
CAMPAIGN WEBSITE:
Gino L. Filippi for Upland City Council 2010 Facebook
AGE: 50
OCCUPATION: Self-employed small businessman, wine columnist for the Daily Bulletin newspaper and Inland Living Magazine, freelance writer, 45 percent co-owner of J. Filippi Winery, media consultant
YEARS OF LIVING IN CITY: 21 years
MARRIED?: no
NO. OF CHILDREN: none
COLLEGES, DEGREES: AA, Chaffey College
RUN FOR ELECTED OFFICE BEFORE?: no
COMMUNITY OFFICES OR ORGANIZATIONS: Rancho Cucamonga Public Library Foundation Boardmember, Bellevue Memorial Park Ontario Boardmember, Los Angeles County Fair Association Boardmember, Rotary Club of Rancho Cucamonga Boardmember, Community Gardens of Rancho Cucamonga Advisor, Global Community Healthcare Advisor & Volunteer, Cooper Regional History Museum Upland Member
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?: The Upland City Council needs revitalizing. My passion is driven by people and their contributions. I'm considered open-minded, ethical and organized. While this is my first opportunity to serve the people of Upland in an official capacity, I have served as a community volunteer for multiple organizations for over 20 years. I will work to establish term limits, maintain public safety including sidewalk and street repairs, restore library services and support local business. I have no agenda for personal gain or favors and my objective is to restore Upland to the "City of Gracious Living" as intended by its founders.
Residents are deserving of responsible representation regardless of their political affiliation or level of income.
CANDIDATE:
Mark Creighton CAMPAIGN WEBSITE:
AGE: 42
OCCUPATION: Regional Manager
YEARS LIVING IN CITY: 8 years
MARRIED?: yes
NO. OF CHILDREN: three
COLLEGES, DEGREES: B.A. in Business from San Diego State University
RUN FOR ELECTED OFFICE BEFORE?: ran for Upland City Council in 2008
COMMUNITY OFFICES OR ORGANIZATIONS: none
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR THIS OFFICE?: With over 20 years of service to our country, our community and to my neighbors, I have worked to exemplify the values of Honor and Integrity. Conservative and fair, I believe in honest, open government that has a vision and plan for the future of our great city. A Veteran of the United States Marine Corps with over 14 years of service, including tours in Somalia, Iraq, and most recently as a reserve Staff Seargent in MCAS Miramar, CA. I have the leadership and the right plans for our city's future. Visit votecreighton.org to learn more. New leadership, no excuses.
CANDIDATE:
Brendan Brandt
CAMPAIGN WEBSITE:
AGE: 46
OCCUPATION: Attorney, City Councilman
YEARS LIVING IN CITY: 40 years
MARRIED?: yes
NO. OF CHILDREN: 3
COLLEGES, DEGREES: Bachelor of Arts in History from the University of California Los Angeles, Juris Doctorate from the University of San Diego School of Law
RUN FOR ELECTED OFFICE BEFORE?: Upland City Council from 2002 to present, Upland Unified School District Board of Trustees from 1999 to 2002.
COMMUNITY OFFICES OR ORGANIZATIONS: Upland Fire Foundation, Upland Sister Cities, Chairman - City - School Committee, Chairman - Finance and Economic Development Committee, AYSO Soccer Coach, Former Vice-Chairman - Upland YMCA
WHY ARE YOU RUNNING FOR OFFICE?: I am running for City Council because I have a vested interest that Upland provide a safe community to live and work. I have lived in Upland for over 40 years and my wife Patti and I are raising our children here.
As your representative and a past-elected School Board member, I have worked to create safe neighborhoods and strong schools. I have balanced the City's budget, increased public safety, and focused on repairing our City's streets and sidewalks, all without raising taxes.
I am dedicated to prudent fiscal spending, maintaining budget reserves and preserving Upland's safe small town atmosphere.
The San Antonio Heights Association is holding it's first annual neighborhood steakfest from 5 to 8 p.m. Saturday in San Antonio Park.
About 200 tickets have been sold so far and there will be more available at the event. Cost is $12 for adults and $5 for children.
All proceeds will go to the operation of the Holiday Star Fund.
Volunteer chefs from the Heights will be cooking under the direction of "Super Chef Bob Cable."
The Association has been talking about holding this event for years. This year they have been able to make it happen.
San Antonio Park is at 24th Street and Mountain Avenue in Upland.
Water that goes down drains in houses and businesses will soon be used for public landscaping.
In partnership with the Chino-based Inland Empire Utilities Agency, Upland officials will begin work in the fall on a number of recycled water projects in the eastern portion of the city.
The $20 million project will provide recycled water for landscape irrigation, industrial use and groundwater recharge. The water will be available for city parks and schools, the Euclid Avenue median, Upland Hills Country Club and San Antonio Community Hospital.
The locations "would be automatically switched over to recycled water use, which then, of course, in turn makes more potable water available to our residents," Public Works Director Anthony La said. "So this is a way of achieving water conservation."
The project will be funded by $5 million in stimulus money from the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation and $2 million from the city. The utilities agency will provide the rest of the funding.
Continue reading Upland to start water project soon.
Now that Fall is approaching, residents can get their fill of fall crafts from Thursday though Sunday at the Mountain Square Center, 380 S. Mountain Ave.
Crafts Unlimited will president Fall Marketplace 2010 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday and Friday, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
There will be food and boutiques filled with fall and Halloween-time treasures.
The first 25 customers each day will receive a free gift.
Parking and admission is free.
Mastercard, Visa and Discover is accepted.
The event is wheelchair accessible.
Strollers are prohibited.
Mountain Square Center is home to The Home Depot and Staples.
The city of Upland is holding its 7th annual Inside Upland Family Fun Day - building a stronger community event from noon to 4 p.m. Saturday in Memorial Park.
The event spotlights businesses and organizations in the city.
People interested in sponsoring, volunteering, having a booth or getting information out about a business or group can call Janis Rice at the Recreation and Community Services Division, 909-931-4281.
Brenden Geary can often be found researching rocket engines and weather balloons at a computer workstation in his Upland bedroom.
Drawings of his latest projects are written in chalk on the wall next to him, which gives the impression that the Pioneer Junior High School eighth-grader doesn't have hobbies typical of other kids his age.
Brenden, 14, spends much of his downtime researching and building scientific projects, "just for the sake of doing it," he said.
His latest project was a weather balloon that he and his father, Tim, wanted to launch thousands of feet into the air on Saturday from their church parking lot in Fontana. The launch failed because the balloon got away from them when they were filling it with helium, but don't expect that to stop Brenden or his father. Brenden will make another attempt to launch his balloon in two weeks.
Brenden Geary, 14, waits for his father, Tim, to attach Brenden s space balloon to a scale as they prep for a balloon launch on Saturday in Upland. Unfortunately, the balloon got loose before the camera was attached. Brenden will make another attempt to launch his balloon in two weeks. (Al Cuizon/Staff Photographer)
Continue reading Upland's whiz kid .
There will be an Upland Unified School District Board of Trustees meeting at 7 p.m. Tuesday in the District's community room, 390 N. Euclid Ave.
Read the agenda here.
There will be an Upland City Council meeting at 7 p.m. tonight at Upland City Hall, 460 N. Euclid Ave. in Upland.
Read the agenda here.
LifeStream will be holding three blood drives Saturday.
The blood drives will be at the following locations:
- Inside Upland Family Fun Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Memorial Park.
- Jody Maroni's Sausage Kingdom, 13920 City Center Dr. in Chino Hills from 1 to 6 p.m.
- Boomers, 1500 W. 7th St. in Upland from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
View blood drives in a larger map
Continue reading LifeStream hosting three blood drives Saturday.
Lapis Minor and the Folk Music Center in Claremont is hosting The Accordion Benefit in appreciation of an Upland resident who recently lost her home to a fire.
Doors open at 7 p.m. Thursday at the music center, 220 Yale Ave., Claremont. The show will begin at 7:30 p.m.
Marjorie Mikels lost her home, car and accordion after a fire in August.
The benefit will help raise funds to buy Mikels a new accordion.
Folk music performers and special guests will be featured.
There is a suggested donation of $10.
For more information call the center at 909-624-2928.
The Rancho Cucamonga Women's Connection is hosting "Fly me to the moon" buffet luncheon from 11:15 a.m. to 1 p.m. Sept. 14 at the Upland Hills Country Club, 1231 E. 16th Street.
Elaine Crabtree will share her artistic gourd talent, "From ugly to 'gourd'geous."
Live music will be provided by Sylvia Quintana.
David Sebastian, a former Naval aviator and airline pilot, will reveal his secrets to personal contentment in "Don't worry, be happy."
Cost is $16 for the meal and program.
Complimentary child care is avialable with a paid reservation. Advance notice is needed.
To make reservations call Cecilia at 909-987-7069.
The event is sponsored by Stonecroft Ministries - www.stonecroft.org
The Upland Woman's Club will be hosting a luncheon meeting at noon on Tuesday at the club house, 590 N. Second Avenue, Upland.
The program will be presented by AJ Entertainment.
Cost is $8.50.
For reservations call 909-986-2800 or 909-920-3313 by Friday.
The San Antonio Community Hospital will host "Preventing sports injuries in young athletes: is your child at risk?" from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Aita Auditorium, 999 San Bernardino Road.
Jeff Fujimoto, director of rehabilitation at San Antonio Community Hospital will discuss common injuries that affect the bone, muscles, ligaments and tendons, of young athletes.
Attendees can learn how to prevent injuries before they happen and how to maintain the orthopedic health of children for years to come.
The city is hosting a free edible landscaping and composting workshop from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Magnolia Recreation Center South Hall, 651 W. 15th St., Upland.
The city will host a free workshop about native plants from 9 a.m. to noon on Oct. 30 at the Magnolia Recreation Center.
Participants will learn about what type of plants will look good in a garden as well as reduce maintenance and save water.
They will also learn about composting, explore different soil types and discover plants for every part of a landscape.
For more information or to register call 909-931-4280.
Carden Arbor View School students last week started the new school year with a joyful cheer.
"C-O-U-G-A-R-S. Cougars, cougars the best," they shouted before heading off to class.
The students' school spirit could be attributed to the school's mission and learning methods.
Small class sizes and small instructional groups are part of the teaching method at the independent private, non-sectarian school at 1530 N. San Antonio Ave.
There is one classroom per grade and 145 students are enrolled at the school.
"When you have a class of 35, 30 students in a classroom it's very difficult to glean from them what they know and where they might be struggling and that's why you resort to tests," Head of School Cathy Edwards said.
"Here you sit around the table with a small group of students, six or seven students in a group for that instructional purpose. You don't need to test them to know what they know or don't know, you know it."
Second-grader Gustavo Mora, 7, right, takes his school supplies out of his backpack before heading into his classroom on the first day back to school on Sept. 1 at Carden Arbor View School in Upland. (Jennifer Cappuccio Maher, Staff Photographer)
Continue reading Upland private school kicking off new year.
Route 66 Toastmasters Club No. 5669 will celebrate its 15th anniversary from 7 to 9 p.m. Sept. 17 at the International House of Pancakes, 80 N. Euclid Ave.
Scheduled speakers include founding club members, Bill Cortus and Scott McGookin as well as Club President Richard Snyder, who sat on the Toastmasters International Board of Directors from 2007-09.
Dolores Weck, another founding member, will emcee the meeting as the Toastmaster of the evening.
Toastmasters International is the world's largest non-profit education organization
devoted to helping men and women improve their communication and leadership skills in
a friendly, supportive, go-at-your-own-pace atmosphere. Toastmasters International was formed in 1924, and currently boasts over 125,000 members in over 12,000 clubs in 106 countries.
The club meets from 7 to 8:30 p.m. on the first and third Fridays of each month.
Guests are welcome.
For more information call Richard Snyder at 909-946-6574.
The Neighborhood - A Vineyard Church in Rancho Cucamonga is hosting a blood and food drive from 9 a.m. to 4p.m. on Sept. 26 for two local non-profits.
Blood Mission will donate $20 for every donor to Upland-based Foothill Family Shelter and Montclair-based Alternate Avenues.
The blood and food drive will be at the Day Creek Intermediate School, 12345 Coyote Drive in Rancho Cucamonga.
The blood will benefit the USC Hospital.
Blood donors can also take canned foods to donate to the Foothill Family Shelter.
To sign up visit www.nvcfamily.org
Tomorrow is Upland Day at the L.A. County Fair.
Residents can purchase tickets for $5 for tomorrow only. Proof of residency is required.
Tickets can be purchased at the Upland Chamber of Commerce office, 215 N. Second Ave. Ste. D.
Entertainment will be provided by Upland bands.
Upland businesses will be on display at the business expo.
There will be a parade at 5 p.m., which will be followed by a presentation of the Upland's community heroes, Karissa Burgos and Kathy Pruitt.
For more information call the Chamber at 909-204-4465.
The city's electrical bills may soon be reduced, thanks to a federal stimulus project that is scheduled to begin construction.
The City Council recently approved a bid from Los Angeles-based Bestek Engineering Inc. to construct solar panels at the city's Public Works yard.
As a part of the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, the Department of Energy made funds available to local cities to encourage energy-efficient projects.
City officials determined the city yard was the best fit for the federal money.
Upland secured $670,800 in 2009, and the solar panel project may cost up to $620,000.
"So what this does is the panels will generate energy that would offset our existing energy cost for the Public Works yard building, which is not very energy-efficient building because of its age," Public Works Director Anthony La said.
Continue reading Public works yard going solar.
The annual Upland Fire Department open house has been canceled due to budget constraints.
The open house was scheduled for Oct. 2 to give residents an opportunity to view the new fire station at Campus Avenue and 19th Street.
But city officials decided to opt out of spending the extra money.
"If people want to go stop by and drop off a plate of cookies for the firefighters, that's fine, but we just don't have the dollars and cash to have staff open up the fire station and have another unit there in case case there's a call and do tours of the fire station," Mayor John Pomierski said.
Having an open house for the new animal shelter in Memorial Park also was considered, but that, too, was ruled out due to the budget, he said.
Firefighters serve guests a pancake breakfast and hot dog lunch during the annual event to raise money for their Explorers program.
Fire safety tips also typically were shared with guests.
"These are things other cities aren't doing," Pomierski said. "They just aren't doing them and probably didn't even put out a memo saying that they were even considering them. Since we considered it, it looks like we're making a pullback."
The new fire station opened earlier this year. It is home to the 100-foot ladder truck.
Even though the official open house is not taking place, residents can still drive by or walk by the facility to check it out, Redevelopment Director Jeff Zwack said.
"If people want to see the fire station, there are many areas people can go into and people can drive by," he said. "It's a beautiful building."
Continue reading Annual Upland Fire Department open house canceled.
The Foothill Family Shelter is selling coupons for Stein Mart to raise funds for their efforts.
Purchase a coupon for $5 from the Shelter and receive $5 or 15 percent off an entire purchase at Stein Mart, 10930 Foothill Blvd., Rancho Cucamonga.
The coupons are only good for Sept. 23-26.
The shelter is an Upland-based non-profit that helps homeless families and children.
They are at 1501 W. Ninth St., Suite D.
For more information call 909-920-0453.
Curves of Upland is offering free diet classes through the Weight Loss Center, on Sept. 14, 16 and 22.
Start up classes that will introduce a comprehensive weight loss program are at 9 a.m.
Sept. 14 and 6 p.m. Sept. 16. A class on the diet topic, planning ahead will be at 6 p.m. Sept. 22.
The public is welcome to attend classes.
Curves is at 299 W. Foothill Blvd. St. 111, Upland.
For more information call 909-608-7666, e-mail curvesupland@aol.com or visit www.curvesupland.com
Alan Carlisle, 80 of Upland, competed all three races in the Chicago Triathlon on Aug. 27-29.
Carlisle, a divorce attorney with a practice in Rancho Cucamonga, as well as a friend, Bob Martin, were two of 209 people who finished all three races.
About 10,500 people registered.
The first race, a super sprint, was on Saturday and was the shortest of the three races. Sunday's races were a sprint and Olympic distance.
The Olympic distance race consisted of a one-mile swim, 25-mile bike ride and a six-mile run.
Carlisle finished all three races with a combined total of 8 hours and 47 minutes. He finished last year's race in 9 hours and 43 minutes.
Martin finished all three races in 8 hours and 32 minutes.
The weather was about 93 degrees in the afternoon. About 60 people were given intravenous fluids in the medical tent, said Carlisle's wife, Cherie in an e-mail.
Alan Carlisle has participated in Ironman 8 times, run in 88 marathons and swum, run and bicycled in hundreds of triathlons.
This was his fourth time participating in the
Chicago Triathlon.
Members of the Kiwanis Club of Upland distributed about 75 backpacks and school supplies to the residents of the Los Olivos public housing project, 1226 N. Campus Ave.
The distribution came after a meeting held at the Upland Housing Authority, which oversees the housing community.
Rather than burning out yet another home shredder, Michael Calloway decided to take advantage of the city's first document shredding event Thursday at the Gibson Senior Center.
"I think it's an excellent idea to destroy your documents," said Calloway, of Upland.
Upland-based on-site shredding company, Cal Shred, parked next to the senior center and shredded documents for residents 55 years and older.
Residents took some of their most sensitive documents such as medical records, legal documents and financial statements -- all of which could leave residents open to identity theft.
"All it takes is a Social Security number, all it takes is a bank number, and someone can completely take over your identity," said Danielle Murdock, who owns Cal Shred with her husband, Eric.
"If it has your name and phone number on it, legally it has to be shredded just because it's personal information. Mostly checks and bank statements."
Cal Shred has been shredding documents for the city, said City Clerk Stephanie Mendenhall.
"This is the first time I have done this and I had seen it done in other cities and I had gotten information and it just hadn't worked out before," Mendenhall said. "But this year we were able to partner up with a company in town that does shredding.
Continue reading Upland hosts document shredding event for seniors.
By Will Bigham, Staff Writer
James Andrew Megaw, 44, was sentenced to three years of probation after entering his pleas in West Valley Superior Court. Felony sexual abuse charges were dismissed as part of the plea bargain, said Megaw's attorney, Leonard Levine.
RANCHO CUCAMONGA - A former Upland elementary school teacher accused of sexually abusing students pleaded no contest to four counts of misdemeanor battery Thursday in a plea bargain that carries no jail time.
James Andrew Megaw, 44, was sentenced to three years of probation after entering his pleas in West Valley Superior Court. Felony sexual abuse charges were dismissed as part of the plea bargain, said Megaw's attorney, Leonard Levine.Megaw, of Rancho Cucamonga, must undergo a year of psychological counseling, stay away from the alleged victims and their families, and forfeit his teaching credential, according to a two page plea-bargain signed Thursday in West Valley Superior Court.
Continue reading Plea bargain reached in teacher's sexual abuse case.
The
20th annual Second Avenue Farmers Market in downtown has ended
earlier than expected this year.
The Thursday night market has been canceled due to financial troubles facing the market's organizer, Main Street Upland, officials said.
The market was scheduled to run through November.
Main Street, a nonprofit, has also closed temporarily, said Steve Eastis, executive director.
"During this hiatus, both the Farmers Market and Main Street Upland will reconsider their respective financial statuses in order to ultimately revitalize their missions and events in the future when the local economy recovers," Eastis said in an e-mail.
The economy and a combination of other factors led to Main Street's closure, he said.
Children's books, to be donated to the library, are packed at I Remember When in Upland on its last day of business on Monday. (Lea Reed/Correspondent)
Continue reading Upland event off.
Joseph Machado, 13 of Upland, was chosen as Upland's first Hometown Hero.
Joseph rode his bicycle nearly 3,000 miles this summer to the White House to raise money for disadvantaged children.
The Upland City Council present Joseph with a certificate during their council meeting on August 23.
"We all met Joseph several months ago. It seemed like there was a little boy who wanted to ride across the country and I got excited about it being a cyclist and went to a fundraiser for him," Councilman Tom Thomas said.
Councilman Ray Musser "and I were there the day you left Rancho and I rode with you the first ways and 39 days later you made it to the White House," Thomas said.
"It's just been really exciting to see this young boy come back a real man and I'm so proud of you.Joseph will be riding with Thomas during the Tour De Foothills on November 13. The event is sponsored by the Upland Chamber of Commerce.
"This year we have an inaugural 100-mile ride and he's going to be there riding with us and I don't think he'll have any problem riding 100 miles after riding 3,000," Thomas said.
Donated items are being sought for a raffle and silent auction being held during the 2nd annual Kling For A Cure benefit music festival on Sept. 25 at Memorial Park, 1100 E. Foothill Blvd., Upland.
The money will be donated to The City of Hope, the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society as well as Jerrad Klingensmith.
Klingensmith was diagnosed on June 12, 2008 with Chronic Myelogenous Leukemia in a blast crisis phase. He had a stem cell replacement surgery in July 2009 and is on the road to recovery.
Continue reading Kling For The Cure donations wanted.
Massage Envy, 1900 N. Campus Ave. in Upland, will be raising money for Susan G. Komen for the Cure on Sept. 14.
The goal is to raise $500,000 nationwide in one day. All massages for the day will be $49 and Massage Envy will donate $15 for each massage to Susan G. Komen.
Last year, Massage Envy had to add a second day due to an overwhelming response. They raised more than $2,200. Massage Envy nationwide raised more than $460,000.
The event will be at the Rancho Cucamonga location as well. The Rancho clinic opened on May 5 and is at 7305 Day Creek Blvd. Suite 101.
For more information visit www.massageenvy.com
The Uplanders Club will launch it's 41st year at their first general meeting and luncheon at 11:15 a.m. on Sept. 8 at the Avocado House, 11618 Central Ave., Chino.
Attendees must RSVP by Friday by calling Betty Merfeld at 909-624-3234.
Guests are welcome.
The Uplanders Club is a non-profit organization that fosters friendship through social activities and community service.
There is still some contention among the Upland City Council over a lawsuit they are fighting against the County over a $102 million settlement with a Rancho Cucamonga Developer.
Councilman Ken Willis made some comments during the city council meeting on August 23 regarding the exorbitant legal fees associated with fighting the lawsuit.
The city has spent more than $2million and is looking to make more cuts to their 2010-11 budget.
Cal Trans and the San Bernardino Associated Governments is also being sued.
"$102 million of tax payers money was paid out and now we're looking at $150 (million) or $160 million of tax payer money is being asked for to go to the county and tax payer money is paying for all the legal fees and all the attorneys and everything else," Willis said.
"We're being forced to defend ourselves by the our county government which essentially is doing something that is totally unprecedented, never heard of before - where a county will turn around and sue a city inside it's own governance."
Continue reading Councilman comments on county lawsuit.
Challenger Bowling sign-ups have begun.
This league is for special needs adults and children ages 7-years-old and up.
The league begins Sept. 18 at Brunswick Zone, 451 W. Foothill Blvd., Upland.
It will run for 10 weeks.
For more information and to sign up call Cora Peterson at 909-987-7276.
The city has nominated two "Community Heroes" for this year's L.A. County Fair.
Karissa Burgos, junior hero, and Kathy Pruitt, adult hero, will be honored at 5:30 p.m. during Upland Day during the fair at Fairplex, 1101 West McKinley Ave. Pomona, on Sept. 9.
Every year the L.A. County Fair honors community heroes from 18 surrounding cities during the 23-day-long event.
Upland Day will celebrate volunteers, humanitarians, students, neighbors and community organizations working to make their city a better place to live.
There will be a parade down Broadway featuring civic organizations and school bands.
Cost is $5 before 5 p.m.
Continue reading Two Upland community heroes chosen for L.A. County Fair.
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