June 2011 Archives
UPLAND - In order to address requests by City Council candidates to meet with department heads, city officials held an informational meeting Wednesday at City Hall.
City Manager Stephen Dunn and several other department heads, some of whom were appointed this week, explained their duties and departments to the candidates in attendance.
The candidates are running for a vacant seat on the council. Residents have to mail in their ballots by Aug. 30.
The 2011-12 fiscal year budget and Dunn's recent reorganization of city government were the most discussed topics.
UPLAND - Aaron Sandusky has a lot to celebrate this holiday weekend.
The president of G3 Holistic, a medical marijuana cooperative, is reopening his Upland shop thanks to a decision made last week in the Fourth District Court of Appeals.
"I feel pretty good based on the decision made and what I read," said Sandusky, whose cooperative was shut down in August after a West Valley Superior Court judge granted an injunction filed by the city.
The city's zoning ordinance prohibits medical marijuana dispensaries from operating within city limits.
Sandusky filed a stay against the injunction and is appealing the city's prohibition of medical marijuana dispensaries.
The stay was granted on June 20, allowing the cooperative to operate until Sandusky's appeal is heard.
"It allows us to open back up and operate again, but we still have to move the case forward and respond and still be heard in the court," Sandusky said.
Upland City Attorney William Curley said he will seek direction from the city.
"Our position is the court did stay our injunction, so that theoretically means they can reopen, but we are perhaps going to revisit this with the court and identify some different facts and perhaps get a different outcome if the city authorizes it," Curley said.
Read more: http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_18379695Mary Mazurette of Upland was recently won a vacation to New Orleans, Louisiana.
Mazurette was named the winner of the "Life, Literature & the Hotel Monteleone" social media-based vacation giveaway by the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans.
"I've never been to New Orleans or the Hotel Monteleone, so I was thrilled when I found out that I won the contest," Mazurette said in a news release. "I can't wait to experience the culture, food and music, and want to thank the Monteleone for the chance to stay in such a historic hotel. This will be the trip of a lifetime for me and my mother."
Mazurette's vacation includes round-trip airfare to New Orleans, a two-night stay in one of the Hotel's literary suites, a signed copy of the Hotel Monteleone's history books, two monogrammed Hotel robes and Hotel Monteleone brand coffee.
Mazurette, who works in the automotive industry, said she plans to take her mother on the trip.
The giveaway was the first of two social media contests that the Hotel is hosting this year as part of its 125thanniversary celebration to highlight its rich culture. The themes of the two contests are literature and traditions. The first contest, Life, Literature & the Hotel Monteleone, launched on February 1 and ran through April 25. Contestants entered the sweepstakes by "liking" the Hotel Monteleone on Facebook and entering their contact information on the sweepstakes entry form. The second contest will launch in the fall and will celebrate the Hotel's history and traditions surrounding the holiday season.
UPLAND - The city's government will soon be shrinking.
To address $3.1 million in cuts to the 2011-12 fiscal year budget, City Manager Stephen Dunn has developed a plan to combine city departments and lay off up to 15 people.
"Right now, the news for the day is I'm realigning some departments and the organization's structure to make us a little more effective and efficient," Dunn said.
All city departments will be realigned. For example, Dunn will combine the City Clerk's Office with the Human Resources and Finance departments.
As part of the realignment, Dunn is looking to lay off 15 executive and mid-level managers, which includes some department heads. The cuts could save up to $2.5 million.
Read more: http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_18371093
from
left to right: Kristen Chavez, Raquel Benitez, Gloria Romero
co-chair of the scholarship committee, Erna Noble and Evelyn Cloyd,
committee members, Annie Atiyeh, co-chair of the scholarship
committee, and Maria Simpson.( Absent: Jia Clark, Jann Garcia, and
Sara Heady)
The
Elizabeth C. Mahon Memorial Scholarship, worth $500, is awarded to a
woman student graduating from Chaffey College and seeking a degree at
a four-year college or university. Consideration is based on
financial need and a grade point average of 3.0 or higher.
The
American Association of University Women, Ontario, Upland, Rancho
Cucamonga Branch awarded six scholarships to local women.
The $500 scholarship is renewable for another year to the same student if they continue to attend school full time and maintain a 3.0 grade point average.
The six women were recognized during the Installation Luncheon on June 11 at the Ontario Sheraton.
The recipients are:
Maria Simpson of Upland, who will be attending UCLA
Jann Garcia of Upland, who has been attending Cal Poly Pomona
Sara Heady of Claremont, who will be attending UC Davis
Raquel Benitez of Ontario, who has been attending Cal Poly Pomona
Kristen Chavez of Fontana, who has been attending Cal Poly Pomona
Jia Clark of Rancho Cucamonga, who has been attending the UC Riverside
Three Upland High
School students were each awarded $10,000 scholarships from Edison
International.
Kevin Dumler, Ian Lundberg and Lakshmisahithi Rani will each get $2,500 scholarships, which will be renewable for three years.
Edison International awarded 125 students scholarships to reflect the company's 125th anniversary.
The scholarships totaled $1.25 million.
Dumler will be majoring in engineering at UC Davis. He's an Eagle Scout, was a National Environmental Education fund recipient, an Advanced Placement scholar with distinction, member of the California Scholarship Federation and National Honor Society. He ran varsity track and volunteered at an oncology center.
Lundberg, Upland's Valedictorian, will be studying physics at Harvard. He was the academic decathlon team captain and a member of the National Honor Society.
Rani will study biomedical engineering at UC Berkeley. She is a National Merit Scholar, silver medal winner at the County Science Fair, an Advanced Placement Scholar with honors and is on the principle's honor roll.
The Cooper Regional History Museum is hosting an open mic and jam session from 7 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Saturday in their outdoor patio at 217 E. A St. in Upland.
Locals can take their instruments and vocal skills to join in.
All proceeds will go to the museum.
Beer, wine, hot dogs and snacks will be available.
The event will be hosted by the PlusTones.
There is no cover charge.
The Center for Cultural Exchange is seeking families to host students from Spain. Families are being sought from Upland, Rancho Cucamonga, Ontario, Claremont, Fontana, Montclair, Corona, Mira Loma and Pomona. The Spanish students will be in from July 8 through July 29. There is an urgent need for families to host Spanish students. Families can be with or without children, single parents and empty nesters. The volunteer families will receive support from Rosanna Islas, the local coordinator. The student will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in American customs and culture, participate in English classes, multiple planned excursions and activities throughout the week. They will also share meals, traditions and daily conversations with the host families. Students will have their own medical insurance and spending money. For more information call Islas at 626-825-8031.
Teens can enjoy Asian-inspired crafts, snack and a movie during the Upland Public Library's summer reading program.
Teens can go to the Carnegie Cultural Center at 123 D. St. from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday for the free program.
The program's theme is "You Are Here," which explores cultures from around the world.
For more information call the library's youth services desk at 909-931-4213.
The Landecena Family Foundation and Upland Foothill Kiwanis will present the Inland Valley Recovery Services 6th annual Chili Cook Off fundraiser from 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturday outside Upland City Hall, 450 N. Euclid Ave. There will be barbecue, live music as well as live and silent auctions. Proceeds from the event will go toward implementation of a job development program for IVRS program graduates. Table sponsorships are available for $800 and $1,000. Tables seat 10. To purchase a table or to make a donation call Ellen Davis at IVRS' administrative office at 909-932-1069 ext. 228.
The Upland Woman's Club recently installed its new officer's for 2011-12.
The
new officers are: President Cecile Collar; LaVonne Vinatieri; Pat
Stewart; Dolores Finch; Bonnie Verhoef; Peggy Boyd; Mary Ellen Melei;
Rose Scorsatto; Arlene Boomhower; Wendy Jarvis; Mary O'Neil; Janet
Tinkham; Charlotte Wright and Shirley Peterson.
The club also
awarded a $600 nursing scholarship to Azusa Pacific nursing student,
Katie Stuvik.
Sideways SmileyFace Productions and Phoenix Rising will present a special performance of "eLove, a Musical.com/edy, with book, music, and lyrics" for three days this month at The Grove Theatre in downtown.
The production was writing by award-winning Wayland Pickard with additional lyrics by Sherry Netherland and Deborah Johnson.
Performances are at 7:29 p.m. Friday and Saturday and at 2 p.m. on Sunday at The Grove, 276 E. Ninth St.
Starring the original cast, seasoned veterans Lloyd Pedersen and Bobbi Stamm, this upbeat musical is a contemporary love story about a man and a woman searching cyberspace for that 'special someone," according to a news release. In the end, they discover that love on the Internet reveals a little more than either one had expected.
Admission is $20 to $25.
To purchase tickets visit www.grovetheatre.com or call 909-920-4343.
For more information on the production visit www.elove-themusical.com
Nancy DeVore, Psychology Assistant, will lead a free workshop in self esteem enhancement from 12:30 to 3:40 p.m. Saturday at the Upland Public Library.
Attendees will learn to unhook themselves from judging their past and to connect with their full potential.
Registration is required.
To pre-register call the library at 909-931-4205.
The workshop will be held in the library's multipurpose room at 450 N. Euclid Ave.
The City Council honored two retirees during their meeting on June 13.
Deputy City Clerk Deborah Tucker is leaving after 17 years with the city.
She had served as City Clerk for a few months in 1999 and served on the city's Centennial Committee. Tucker coordinated the city's photography contest and helped to implement a City Council Agenda software program.
"I've gone through a lot of changes here with the city and now I'm facing a lot in my life," Tucker said. "Retirement, I'm getting married in August and I'm going to be starting a photography business. I'm excited."
Fleet Senior Equipment Mechanic Larry Schwalm is retiring after 27 years in the city's Public Works Department.
He had served as equipment manager one and equipment mechanic two.
"My wife and I had a conversation on the way here - where have all the years gone?" Schwalm said. "They go by really quick."
A Western University veterinarian was finishing up her day at the Upland Animal Shelter, when Skippy arrived.
Skippy, a 3-month-old male domestic short hair kitten, was suffering from a severe infection. His back left leg and most of his tail had also been mangled.
He was evaluated and even though the veterinarian was ready to leave for the day, she agreed to do surgery.
Skippy's leg was removed as well as 75 percent of his tail.
He spent two days recovering in the veterinary clinic at the shelter.
Skippy went to live with Brenda Thall, a volunteer at the shelter, for medical foster care to complete his recovery.
When Skippy first arrived at Thall's house, he was not able to sit up without falling to his left side, where his leg was amputated, Thall said.
"It didn't take him long to adapt," Thall said. "He began to use his little nub of a tail to balance himself and he soon mastered sitting up. From there it was rapid progress."
Skippy learned how to get onto the couch and climb stairs, Thall said.
"He now plays chase with my other foster kittens and you would never know he is missing a leg," Thall said. "He runs, jumps and plays just like everyone else. He is very loving, enjoys having his ears rubbed and has a soft meow when he thinks he is being ignored."
Jon Knowlton, the city's animal services supervisor, asks that anyone interested in adopting Skippy email him at jknowlton@ci.upland.ca.us and describe the home life they can provide.
Skippy is neutered, microchipped and is up to date on all of his shots.
Donations can also be made to the Shelter at 1275 San Bernardino Road to help injured and sick pets entering the shelter.
Knowlton said the donation needs to be designated for the medical fund.
Nancy Holder, author of young adult books, will help kick off the Upland Public Library's first summer reading session from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday.
Teens can discuss the books they have read and enjoyed.
The session is free.
For more information call the youth services desk at 909-931-4213.
Overhead Door of the LA Basin in Upland is encouraged Southern Californian home owners to submit pictures of their "ugly" garage doors in order to win a new one.
Overhead Door of the LA Basin is a regional distributer and installer of Overhead Door products.
"A garage door significantly impacts the curb appeal and value of a home, especially in today's housing market," said Lance Little, president of Overhead Door of the LA Basin in a news release. "There are hundreds of southland homeowners that would greatly benefit from a new garage door, and we have put this contest into place to give one resident the opportunity to improve the look of their home."
The contest is offering local homeowners a chance to upgrade their old, shabby doors with a high-quality garage door. Garage doors earn an 84 percent average return on investment, and are considered to be one of the best home improvement projects this year, according to a news release from Overhead Door of the LA Basin.
To enter the contest, homeowners must visit www.OverheadCenters.com/Contest where they will be directed to the fill out a registration form and upload a photo or video of their existing garage door to the company's Facebook page. Participants have until July 4 to enter.
The winner will be selected based on the number of Facebook "likes" their photo or video receives. Once the contest ends, company officials will elect the "ugliest" door and announce the recipient of the free garage door. Installation of the new garage door will be scheduled with the winner.
The Upland High School girls frosh softball team finished their season undefeated.
They won the title of Baseline League Champions with a final standing of 15-0.
The team mercied 11 of the 15 games, which means they beat their opponent by more than 10 runs, so the game ended early.
Marissa Sanchez, catcher; Desiree Piceno, Payton Barris and Marissa Gonzalez ended the season batting over 600.
Tiffany Valenciano pitched all 15 games averaging 5.2 strike outs per game.
The team also includes: Summer Clyburn; Alyssa Hernandez; Tessa Landin; Ashley Plant; Mallory
Ramos; Sarah Recio; Adriana Marly; Katlyn Underwood; Madison Standon and Amy Stewart.
Louie Munoz is the coach and Richard Shackelford is the assistant coach.
Kristin Klepper, 17 of Upland, has been awarded the American Morgan Horse Association Hunter Seat on the Flat Silver Medal Award for her performance at the Diamond Jubilee Benefit Horse Show from April 1-3 in Del Mar.
Klepper qualified to compete for the Gold Medal at the 2011 Grand National & World Championship Morgan Horse Show held in Oklahoma City, OK from Oct. 8-15.
Excellence
in equitation is valued by the Association and is recognized through
its AMHA Medal classes, held at local and regional Morgan and
all-breed shows. All junior riders who are AMHA members are invited
to compete on a Morgan. Silver Medals are awarded in each of the six
seats: Saddle, Western, Hunter on the Flat, Hunter Over Fences,
Reining, and Dressage. Those who place first or second in an AMHA
Silver Medal class are qualified to participate in the 2011 Gold
Medal Finals at the Grand National. The highest AMHA equitation
honor, the Gold Medal, is awarded in each of the six seats.
Founded
in 1909, the Association is a non-profit organization serving more
than 50,000 Morgan horse owners, breeders, exhibitors, and
enthusiasts throughout the United States.
The Association serves as a parent organization to more than 90 recognized Morgan horse clubs and national service organizations.
Judy Moore, a food service manager for the Upland Unified School District, was announced as the 2011 Member of the Year by the California School Employees' Association Upland Chapter 163.
The announcement was during the chapter's annual fiesta on May 20 at Don Jose Restaurant. Moore has worked in the district for twenty-two years, and will be retiring at the end of this school year.
Teens can enjoy Asian-inspired crafts, snack and a movie during the Upland Public Library's summer reading program.
Teens can go to the Carnegie Cultural Center at 123 D. St. from 3 to 5:30 p.m. Thursday for the free program.
The program's theme is "You Are Here," which explores cultures from around the world.
For more information call the library's youth services desk at 909-931-4213.
UPLAND - The City Council decided Monday to continue working with the owners of The Grove Theatre in downtown on how to address several fire safety repairs, rather than allocating Redevelopment Agency funding.
The city's Finance and Economic Development Committee recommended the council approve up to $200,000 in redevelopment money to address repairs needed to bring the building up to fire safety standards.
However, the council decided to keep the building on "fire watch" while City Manager Stephen Dunn works with the owners, Sherry and Bill Kinison, as well as the building tenants to find a better option.
While The Grove is under "fire watch," someone from a private company or the Upland Fire Department will remain on the premises during events.
The building showcases live productions and is also utilized by the Victory Community Church and Inland Valley News.
"We can work at looking at the arrangement that the church and with the Theatre and explore other options," Dunn said.
"There are other things the city may be able to do in regards to that, and, unfortunately, I have not had a time to sit down with both parties that are using that building to work this out."
Read more: http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_18274634The Foothill Family Shelter is having a warehouse sale from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday at their office, 1501 W. Ninth St. Ste. D in Upland.
The Shelter is clearing out their warehouse to make room for their food pantry, diapers and wipes.
There will be childrens' toys, furniture, small appliances, knick-knacks as well as kitchen, living room and bathroom decor.
They will also be accepting non-perishable food items, diapers and wipes.
For more information call the Shelter at 909-920-0453.
Two Upland residents will be presenting their production of Harold Pinter's "The Dumb Waiter" at The Complex Theatre in Hollywood.
The production, directed by Landon Johnson and designed by Matthew Hill, both of Upland, will be at 4:30 p.m. June 18 and 25 as well as at 8 p.m. on June 26 on the Theatre's "Flight" stage.
The play, staring Kris Bicknell and Jordan Randall, is a humorous and provocative story of two hit men as they wait in a basement for their next assignment.
Tickets are $15.
The Theatre is at 6476 Santa Monica Blvd in Hollywood.
Heart Link Network will be meeting from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday in Upland.
The Network is a national networking organization for women only. There are more than 160 chapters across the country.
The group meets the second Tuesday of each month for lunch. They meet the fourth Tuesday of each month for dinner.
For the meeting address and more information call Sandy McBride at 714-328-1837.
UPLAND - City Manager Stephen Dunn's contract has yet to be signed, but his salary and benefits show a 45 percent decrease from the cost of the previous city manager.
Dunn was hired at a cost of $254,544 to the city, which includes the same leave accruals and some benefits he was already receiving as the finance director and interim city manager.
Former City Manager Robb Quincey was costing the city $460,096 for salary and benefits.
"All I said is give me what I have. I want a little more in compensation because it is a pretty stressful job. Other than that nothing over and above what I'm already getting," Dunn said.
The City Council hired Dunn on Monday to replace Quincey, who was terminated on May 4 for breaching his employment contract and failing to follow specific council direction.
Dunn will receive 314 hours annually for vacation, sick, administrative and compensatory time off.
Should the City Council decide to terminate him, he would have a 90-day safety net.
He will continue to receive $4,200 annually in auto allowance.
Quincey was receiving 720 hours annually in leave. His safety net was 18 months.
Dunn will not receive a housing allowance, Public Employee Retirement System buyback, technology allowance or preventive health allowance, which were given to Quincey.
"It's a breath of fresh air and it's leading by example," Mayor Ray Musser said. "We're going to have to ask the department heads as well as other leading people to do the same thing."
http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_18253925?IADID=Search-www.dailybulletin.com-www.dailybulletin.comRead more:
UPLAND - The City Council tonight will review a proposal to fix several safety issues at The Grove Theatre in downtown, using city funds to do so.
The city's finance and economic development committee is recommending the council approve the use of up to $200,000 in redevelopment agency money to make the improvements to the theater.
"The city has an interest in that building. It also has an interest in ensuring that patrons that utilize that facility are safe," said Councilman Brendan Brandt, a member of the committee.
If the City Council approves the recommendation, the city will take responsibility for the repairs.
The theater could be closed for a month while the repairs are being made, according to a city staff report.
A lien would then be placed on the building to ensure the city is repaid if the building is sold.
Read more:http://www.dailybulletin.com/news/ci_18258930#ixzz1PCCPofs6
City Manager Stephen Dunn has posted his weekly newsletter.
He was promoted from Interim City Manager and Finance Director to City Manager on Monday.
Need to catch up on Upland news? Visit http://www.dailybulletin.com/uplandwatch for information on the FBI investigation, City Manager news as well as other City Council decisions.
UPLAND - One year after FBI and IRS agents confiscated records from their businesses, John Pomierski and John Hennes are preparing to defend themselves against charges of extortion, bribery and conspiracy.
Pomierski's attorney, Robert Schauer, said Pomierski is now focusing on his defense pending an Aug. 30 trial date.
"He's doing good. He would be like anybody with charges brought against him - concerned - but he is working hard on his defense and is in good spirits," Schauer said.
Agents raided Pomierski's home-based business, JP Construction, on June 10, 2010, along with Upland City Hall, JH Builders in Upland and Venture West Capital in Rancho Cucamonga.
Pomierski and Hennes, the owner of JH Builders, were named in an 11-count indictment on March 2, accusing them of extorting $45,000 in bribes from two Upland businesses.
Pomierski and Hennes pleaded not guilty on March 3 in federal court in Riverside.
Hennes, a former member of the city's Building Board of Appeals, is continuing his work as a contractor, said his attorney, Kenneth White.
"He's a respected contractor in the community, a respected church go-er and coach. He's still pursuing all that," White said.
"He's raising his two kids, who are actually young adults now, and we're working to defend this matter. I'm happy to have the opportunity to do that for him because he's a good guy."
UPLAND - A Rancho Cucamonga man accused of helping former Mayor John Pomierski in an extortion scheme is still at large.
Federal authorities issued an arrest warrant on March 22 for Anthony Orlando Sanchez, 35.
Sanchez was charged on Feb. 1 along with Jason Crebs, 38 of Upland, for aiding and abetting Pomierski in demanding bribes from the Chronic Cantina restaurant in Upland.
A warrant was issued after Sanchez failed to appear for his arraignment in federal court in Riverside for a third time.
Crebs pleaded guilty to the charges on April 11 in Federal Court. He will testify against Pomierski in court.
Sanchez and Crebs are named as co-conspirators in the 11-count indictment filed on March 2 against Pomierski and John Hennes, owner of JH Builders in Upland.
Anyone with information on Sanchez' whereabouts are asked to call 888-CANT HIDE.
UPLAND - The first signs of trouble in the city's government became evident one year ago today.
FBI and IRS agents raided City Hall on June 10, 2010 triggering several jaw-dropping revelations and changes within the city throughout the past year.
"It led to some serious allegations against some people and it really did change the role of leadership in the city," Councilman Ken Willis said.
Agents confiscated records from City Hall, former Mayor John Pomierski's home-based business, J.H. Builders in Upland and Venture West Capital in Rancho Cucamonga.
Nine months later, Pomierski and John Hennes, owner of JH Builders, were named in an 11-count indictment accusing them of participating in an extortion scheme that led to two Upland businesses paying $45,000 in bribes.
They pleaded not guilty on March 3 in federal court in Riverside and are now awaiting their trial.
"I think that it causes not just the City Council, but the city as a whole to have to try and make sense out of something like this," Willis said. "It's like carrying on when you're feeling wounded and for the vast majority of us it was absolutely a huge surprise."
Since the raid, leadership on the City Council and City Hall has changed.
Pomierski resigned the week prior to his indictment, resulting in Mayor Ray Musser's appointment.
His move to mayor left a vacancy on the council, which voters will now refill in an Aug. 30 special election.
The elected council member will be the second newcomer to the council since Councilman Gino Filippi was elected in November.
At City Hall, various actions taken by former City Manager Robb Quincey became public, which led to his termination last month.
Stephen Dunn was promoted to city manager on June 6 to help the council move forward.
The changes have been good for the city, Willis said.
"It's been very painful change," he said. "It has caused a lot of us a great deal of hurt over relationships that we thought were based on trust."
Read more:http://www.dailybulletin.com/news/ci_18242381#ixzz1OtIl79m3
UPLAND - The authority to settle claims filed against the city may soon be returned to the city manager.
The city's finance and economic development committee is recommending the City Council grant the city manager the ability to settle claims up to $25,000, a right that was revoked by the council in January.
"The difference between then and now is we've added a couple safeguards in there," City Manager Stephen Dunn said.
The human resources director may also be allowed to settle claims up to $10,000.
All settlements will be placed on the council agendas for final approval.
A city employee will be tasked with monitoring all the claims and settlements as well as making sure copies of checks are filed with the City Clerk's Office.
"It's separate of the human resources department and separate of the city manager department, so it's kind of a check and balance," Dunn said.
Read more: http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_18233025
Summer Swim class sign-ups begin on June 13.
All classes are held at the Upland High School swimming pool at 565 W. 11th St.
Classes are Monday-Friday and are two weeks long.
Many session times are available for 2-year-olds through adults.
Cost is $55 to $65.
For more information call the Upland Recreation Department, 651 W. 15th St., at 909-931-4280.
The city is hosting a free seminar for residents nearing retirement.
The seminar, "Retirementology: Rethinking the American Dream in the New Economy," will be from 7 to 9 p.m. June 14 in the Magnolia Recreation Center Lounge at 651 W. 15th St.
Instructor Jeffrey Hackbarth will teach attendees options they have in today's economy to be effective with retirement savings and spending.
Pre-registration is recommended due to limited space.
The seminar is for people 45 years old and older.
For more information call 909-981-4280.
UPLAND - Stephen Dunn's first day as city manager started off early and busy at City Hall on Tuesday.
He arrived to work at the usual time, 6 a.m., and after a morning full of meetings, his task was a familiar duty from his previous post as the city's finance director - the city budget.
Dunn's first priority as city manager will be solving the $4.6 million gap in Upland's 2011-12 fiscal year budget, which may include layoffs and cuts in labor costs.
The general fund will need to be reduced by $3.1 million.
"Right now, we need to focus on taking care of things in the organization and get it moving," he said.
The City Council hired Dunn on Monday. He spent 10 years as the city's finance director andhad been the interim city manager since Jan. 4, when former City Manager Robb Quincey was placed on paid leave of absence. Quincey was fired May 4.
Now, Dunn's task will be to lead the city through its budget dilemma as city manager and without a finance director.
Projected revenues next year are down by $1.5 million from the current fiscal year.
The city also has increased costs in pension obligations because of pending raises for its police officers.
Dunn said he will be looking to cut city positions.
"We had trimmed our maintenance and operations section of the general fund budget about as much as we could trim it," Dunn said. "We weren't going to be able to make up the $3.1 million in that area, which is where we always trimmed in the past, so now we'll have to look at personnel."
Read more: http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_18225461
As summer heats up, so will preparations for Upland's day at the L.A. County Fair.
The fair, held from Sept. 3-Oct. 2 at Fairplex in Pomona, is accepting nominations for Community Heroes.
Community Heroes are typically individuals who work tirelessly to make a difference. They are volunteers at local hospitals, schools, churches and more.
They devote their time and efforts, going above and beyond without thought of reward or recognition.
Members of the community can nominate two heroes to represent Upland during its day at the fair on Sept. 8.
They can be an adult, young adult under 18 years old, and a senior.
Selected heroes will be honored throughout the day with a luncheon, parade and onstage presentation.
Community Hero nomination forms need to be filled out and submitted by June 17.
Forms can be mailed, emailed or faxed to:
Fairplex
Attention: Shanell Santee
1101 W. McKinley Ave.
Pomona, CA 91768
Fax: 909-629-2067
Phone: 909-865-4075
Email: santee@fairplex.com
UPLAND - The city's special election season has officially kicked off.
Twelve candidates filed their nomination paperwork with City Hall by Monday - the last day of the filing period. The period began on May 9.
The candidates are Ladan Bezanson, Elaine Courey, Robert "Bubba" DeJournett, Joseph Elkin, Sam Fittante, Eric Gavin, Dan Morgan, Steven Roppel, Debra "Debbie" Stone, Maureen Sundstrom, Martin Thouvenell and Muhammad Zaman. Some are awaiting approval by the county Registrar of Voters.
The election is being held to fill a vacancy on the City Council left by Ray Musser when he was appointed mayor on Feb. 28.
Two-time City Council candidate Mark Creighton took out paperwork to run for the open seat but did not return it.
Upland voters will receive their ballots in the mail between Aug. 1 and Aug. 20. The ballots need to be mailed into the county Registrar of Voters by Aug. 30.
Read more: http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_18218580
UPLAND - After several months of controversy involving city leadership, the City Council has hired a new city manager.
Stephen Dunn, the city's finance director and interim city manager, was hired by the council during a special meeting Monday.
The council came to a unanimous oral agreement during closed session to offer Dunn a one-year contract.
"Mr. Dunn has been here a long time and deserves this," Mayor Ray Musser said. "We feel he is the best city manager in this particular time to give us the guidance. One of our biggest challenges is in the financial area."
Dunn, who has worked for the city for the past 10 years, will be given $189,425 in compensation and $65,119 in benefits, for a total of $254,544.
The one-year term was Dunn's idea.
He has been interim city manager since former City Manager Robb Quincey was placed on paid leave of absence on Jan. 4. Quincey was terminated in May 4 for breaching his employment contract and failing to follow council direction.
Quincey was costing the city more than $460,000 a year in salary and benefits.
The City Council last month decided to hire a consultant to help them recruit a new city manager.
The city received several responses, all of which were too costly and would leave the city without permanent leadership for a few months, Councilman Ken Willis said.
Read more: http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_18219347
The Landecena Family Foundation is sponsoring a "$5 Feline Frenzy" adoption event from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. June 12 at the Upland Animal Shelter.
During the "feline frenzy" cats and kittens will be available for $5. Senior citizens can adopt a cat free of charge.
The adoption fee includes spay/neuter, microchip, vaccines, and a free vet exam.
About 100 cats and kittens of all shapes and sizes will be available for adoption.
Potential adopters can browse through the shelter and visit with the many felines before choosing their next furry best friend.
The shelter is at 1275 San Bernardino Road in Memorial Park.
For more information call 909-931-4185.
UPLAND - Today is the last day for potential City Council candidates to file their paperwork at City Hall, and so far only three of 21 people who picked up papers have officially entered the race.
Sam Fittante, the retired owner of an Upland-based lawn-maintenance business, and Debra Stone, the funeral arranger at Stone Funeral Home, have been confirmed as candidates for the all-mail Aug. 30 election.
Eric Gavin, a software architect, has filed his paperwork but is waiting for county approval.
Voters will choose a candidate to fill a vacancy left on the council when Ray Musser was appointed mayor Feb. 28.
Gavin, a software architect, said he has been involved in a grass-roots movement calling for open and transparent government for a few years. He has also participated in his homeowners' association.
He said he always wanted to get involved in public service, so he decided to enter the city's special election.
"I saw the special election occurring and of course a large reason for that occurring is because of a lack of transparency that brought up all the problems with the indictment and all that stuff to begin with," he said. "I thought, well, why not?"
Gavin said he expects his optimism and inquisitive nature will make him a good choice for the City Council.
Ballots will be mailed out to voters between Aug. 1 and Aug. 20. Completed ballots must be at the San Bernardino County Registrar's Office by Aug. 30.
Read more: http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_18213583
The Grove Theatre and Christophe's Restaurant & Lounge in Upland have partnered to offer patrons a complete evening in downtown.
The Theatre, at 276 E. Ninth St. and Christophe's at 296 N. 2nd Ave. are offering "dinner and a show" packages.
The package is $35 per person and includes a salad, choice of one of three entrees, desert and a non-alcoholic beverage.
A performance of "Good, Bad, But Beautiful," will be at 7:29 p.m. Thursday at The Grove.
To purchase tickets call 909-920-4343.
Baldy View Elementary student Avery Anderson passed away on May 24 from a brain tumor. She was 6.
Avery was born on June 18, 2004 in Pomona and lived her whole life in Upland.
She was diagnosed with an inoperable brain tumor in November, which spread to her spine.
Students in the ACCESS after school program performed scenes from The Lion King on May 5. They were helping to raise money for Avery and her family.
Her mother, Kelly Fritts, is a teacher with the program.
She loved animals, singing, dancing, camping and going to Disneyland.
She also attended the Moultrie Academy of Music, Voice and Dance in Upland.
A celebration of life in honor of Avery's seventh birthday will be held at 2 p.m. June 18 at Magnolia Park, 651 W. 15th St. in Upland.
Donations of new toys, blanket or books are being collected for the Children's Hospital of Orange County where Avery was receiving treatment.
The Upland Public Library's summer hours have officially begun.
"Patrons have been knocking on our doors, waiting for these morning hours to return," said Interim Library Director Celeste Fong in a news release.
The hours are:
10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays
10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesdays and Thursdays
Closed on Fridays
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays
1 to 5 p.m. Sundays
The Friends of the Upland Library will maintain its Book Cellar hours for the summer.
They are as follows:
10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays
1 to 4 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays
Money raised by the Friends are used to support new titles for the library's collection and cultural programs for all ages.
The Book Cellar, a used bookstore, is on the lower level of the library.
The library is at 460 N. Euclid Ave.
For more information call the library at 909-931-4200.
UPLAND - A former and a current planning commissioner recently resolved an issue outlined in an email to the City Council, but not before the FBI was made aware of its contents, according to one councilman.
Former Planning Commissioner Mark Bertone sent an email to the City Council on May 2 that described a conversation he had with current commissioner Robert Schauer.
According to Bertone's email, Schauer approached him during a City Council meeting on Dec. 13.
Schauer allegedly told him "there is a good chance the feds will call you and ask you if the mayor had contacted you on the day of your first Planning Commission meeting regarding the Rockin' Roadhouse. And all you have to say is no."
Bertone and Schauer have discussed the issue which they both say was a misunderstanding. They addressed the City Council on May 23 regarding their resolution.
However, Councilman Gino Filippi said the FBI asked him about the email and its contents.
"I was taken back when I learned it had been released," Filippi said. "I have been contacted by the FBI regarding the email. I cannot comment further."
An FBI spokesperson did not return calls for comment Thursday.
Read more: http://www.dailybulletin.com/ci_18193137?source=rss_viewed
The city is seeking applicants to serve on the Building Board of Appeals and the Planning Commission.
The Building Board of Appeals determines the suitability of altnerate materials and methods of construction and provides reasonable interpretations of the various codes related to the building industry.
Applicants must possess a license as an architect, engineer, attorney or contractor.
The Planning Commission reviews issues related to the general plan, zoning and other land use related functions pursuant to state laws on conservation, planning and zoning.
Additionally the Planning Commission serves as the Airport Land Use Committee and Historic Preservation Committee.
All applicants must reside in Upland.
Residents interested in serving on the Board or Commission are to call the City Clerk's office at 909-931-4120 or visit the city's Website at:
http://www.ci.upland.ca.us/PDF/MailInFormPDF.pdf
Applications must be submitted by Monday.
The Upland Relay For Life will be from 9 a.m. June 11 to 9 a.m. June 12 at Magnolia Park at 651 W. 15th St.
The 24-hour community gathering brings together millions of people to raise money to help prevent cancer, save lives and dimish suffering from the disease.
Teams of people camp out at a local high school, park or fairground and take turns walking or running around a track or path.
Each team is asking to have a
representative on the track at all times during the event.
While the teams are raising funds, they are also raising awareness of cancer prevention, early detection, treatment and patient support.
For more information on the event call Donna Gunn at 909-767-5672.
The Upland Public Library is looking for volunteers to help with their seven-week summer reading program.
The program is from June 11 to July 31 and encourages children to read and visit the library during the summer.
Volunteers must be at least 16-years-old or expect to graduate high school in 2013.
Volunteers need to commit two hours per day for two days per week for seven weeks.
Volunteers will:
sign up children for the program
listen to children talk about what they've been reading
give out prizes
encourage kids to keep reading and visit the library
help with special events and performers
helps kids spin the wheel and locate books
Volunteers must fill out a summer reading program volunteer application packet from the youth services desk at the Upland Library, 450 N. Euclid Ave. as well as a city of Upland volunteer application from the human resources department at Upland City Hall, 460 N. Euclid.
The deadline to turn in completed and signed applications is 4 p.m. Sunday.
Volunteers will be required to attend training session from 3 to 4 p.m. June 8.
For more information or an application visit
http://www.ci.upland.ca.us/asp/site/Living/Calendar/Details.asp?ID=326
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