temple city connect spring 2014

Temple City

9 BRIGHT IDEAS 15 DOWNTOWN STATE OF MIND 22 COMMUNITY VALUES

Spring 2014 news events people

INSIDE!

RECREATION GUIDEPAGE 27

COMING INTO PLACE

Rosemead Boulevard Grand Opening Festival

Saturday, May 10, 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

Between Las Tunas Drive & Broadway

FREE EVENT

• Restaurant tasting

• Guided bike train

• Family scavenger hunt

• Art tours

• Kid Zone

• Raffle prizes

For full lineup, visit www.rosemeadblvd.com.

GO

TEMPLE CITY’S COMPLETE STREET, NOW COMPLETE.

9701 LAS TUNAS DR., TEMPLE CITY, CA 91780 • (626) 285-2171 • WWW.TEMPLECITY.US

INSIDE THIS ISSUE 4 Editor’s Message The giving environment

5 Perspectives Favorite places in Temple City

6 Snapshots Capturing the community spirit

8 City Calendar Upcoming meetings and events

Temple City Connect

3

15 Downtown State of Mind

20 Rosemead Boulevard

22 Community Values

37 Ask City Hall New street sweeping schedule

38 People German Gonzalez, crossing guard

9 Bright Ideas A transformation afoot

14 Counterparts Pet-friendly businesses

15 Downtown State of Mind Coming together to create excitement

20 Rosemead Boulevard The street for everyone

22 Community Values Maintaining local infrastructure

27 Recreation Guide Spring 2014 classes and activities

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TEMPLE CITY’S COMPLETE STREET, NOW COMPLETE.

Spring is here. As we celebrate the longer days ahead with a packed events calendar,

we’re also entering budget season with continued discussions on community

investment. A major contributor to Temple City’s high standard of living is our built

environment that supports our residents’ active lifestyles. As we move forward

in addressing the future of the community, major issues are focused on how to

create and sustain a vibrant downtown, ample recreational opportunities, modern

infrastructure and neighborhood amenities.

In the last several years, the City has developed various plans to enhance the

built environment, making sure its infrastructure is in great shape for the next

50 years and beyond. The Rosemead

Boulevard Project now nearing completion

(page 20) introduces new bike lanes,

sidewalks and public art to reenergize the

corridor; while the soon completed Parks and

Open Space Master Plan lays out a 25-year

game plan for updating recreational facilities

and programming to accommodate our

diverse population. Although City Hall has a

considerable role in the physical development

of the community, it does not operate in a vacuum. As you’ll see in the following

pages, it takes many people investing time, effort and resources to provide quality

academic facilities for students, diverse retail and dining options for residents, and

excellent housing opportunities for families (page 9).

As we continue the dialogue for community enhancements—like downtown

revitalization (page 15) and the General Plan envisioning process—it will require

ongoing participation from everyone to decide not only what improvements are

desired, but also how we will fund them. In recent years, Temple City has experienced

one of the County’s fastest rises in property valuation. Part of sustaining that growth

is making sure amenities and the local standard of living reflect high home prices.

Recent studies assessing local street conditions and scarcity of park lands have called

for increased preventative street maintenance and acquisition of open space; however,

such ventures are costly and whether they are worthy investments will be a judgment

for the community to decide (page 22).

So this season, whether driving down the newly paved Rosemead Boulevard, or

enjoying the annual Easter Egg Hunt and Pancake Breakfast at Live Oak Park, take a

moment to consider just what it takes to provide and maintain a comfortable, clean

and safe Temple City.

Tracey Hause

Acting City Manager/Administrative Services Director

temple city

editor’s message

TEMPLE CITY CONNECT is the City’s quarterly magazine that connects the community to City Hall.

EDITORTracey Hause

MANAGING EDITORBrian Haworth

ASSOCIATE EDITORWendy Chung

WRITERSSteve Nathan Chelsea Pitcher

PHOTOGRAPHERSMatthew Escobar Jerry Jambazian

TRANSLATORStella Yu

CONTRIBUTORSAmber Lee Sabina Li

DESIGNFuel Creative Group

CITY COUNCILCynthia Sternquist MAYOR

Carl Blum MAYOR PRO TEM

Fernando Vizcarra COUNCILMEMBER

Tom Chavez COUNCILMEMBER

Vincent Yu COUNCILMEMBER

COVER PHOTOPinpointing Temple City. PHOTO BY AMBER LEE

City of Temple City 9701 Las Tunas Dr. Temple City, CA 91780 ©2014 City of Temple City. All rights reserved. If you have questions or comments regarding our magazine, please email us at [email protected].

A major contributor

to Temple City’s high

standard of living is our

built environment that

supports our residents’

active lifestyles.

The Giving Environment

4

Spring 2014 www.templecity.us

“I love the white gazebo at Temple City Park—especially the bricks with the names that surround it. They remind me of the Hollywood Walk of Fame.”CAYLA, 12

“The newly renovated Rosemead Boulevard is really starting to grow on me. The new lights really add a lot of brightness and the newly planted trees make the street a lot more scenic and colorful than it used to be.” MINDY, 43

“I love Guppy House. They have great food and the interior is very unique—it’s like being in a jungle or rainforest!”SANDRA, 41

“There’s always something to do for everybody at Live Oak Park. I’m old—91 years—so it’s nice to sit and watch the kids play. I usually walk over from where I live. It’s a little over a mile, but it’s a nice walk because I get to talk and say ‘hi’ to neighbors.” GEORGE, 91

“Summer Concerts in the Park is great. I get to see a lot of friends and people I wouldn’t normally see, and it’s a wonderful place to make fond memories.”NANETTE, 52

“Obviously Temple City Park is my favorite place because I think it is very well maintained and clean. It is also really quiet and not at all overcrowded. Sometimes I like to take scenery pictures in the park.” ROGER, 60

“Temple City Park because it is extremely clean and it is the perfect size for my kids to play and me to still be able to keep an eye on them. We also like going to Temple City Library that is right next to the park.” ANN, 38

“Live Oak Park is my favorite place in Temple City because there are courts where I can play basketball with my little brother.”GIOVANNI, 12

“Las Tunas Drive because it is family friendly and a good place to hang out. There are many different stores and places to get coffee, the environment is really nice and clean, it is not as crowded as many other main streets in other cities, and it is a great place to walk my dog.” TEGJAY, 45

“I love going to the farmer’s market at Temple City Park on Sunday mornings. I especially enjoy it when the jazz band plays. It’s nice to be able to listen to live music while doing some shopping.”RACHEL, 16

“During Christmastime, Las Tunas Drive is one of my favorite places because there are a lot of lights put up around the trees and the whole street looks bright and festive. I also think that it is funny how when you turn off of Las Tunas Drive, the next street is dark again.” TAYLOR, 13

From local streetscapes and

infrastructure, to parks and community

facilities, our built environment

provides for recreation opportunities

and neighborly interactions that are

critical to an enriching hometown

lifestyle.

temple city

perspectives

BY SABINA LI

“WHAT’S YOUR FAVORITE

PLACE IN TEMPLE CITY?”

GEORGE CAYLAGIOVANNISANDRA

Temple City Connect

5

1 LIGHTS ON TEMPLE CITY

On Dec. 6, even the Grinch couldn’t resist getting into the holiday spirit as families and children gathered to kick off the most wonderful time of the year. Highlights included visits with Santa, lighting of the redwood in Temple City Park, and two tons of snow.

2 NEIGHBORHOOD CLEANUP

It was all in a day’s work on Jan. 25 as some neighbors got a head start on spring cleaning. With the help of volunteers, residents in the Sereno-Sultana neighborhood cleared 11 tons of trash and planted nine new trees.

3 CHINESE NEW YEAR STREET FESTIVAL

Thousands welcomed the Year of the Horse with a lively street festival on Feb. 1 along Las Tunas Drive. The event, co-sponsored with Singtao Daily Newspaper, featured food trucks, games, carnival rides and entertainment.

4 70TH CAMELLIA FESTIVAL

Celebrating 70 years, Temple City’s signature hometown festival was bigger than ever. In addition to the traditional Royal Coronation and parade, this year’s festivities included an expanded Carnival on Feb. 21–23 featuring live concerts, food trucks, and a beer garden.

temple city

snapshots

FOR TEMPLE CITY, RICH IN CULTURAL DIVERSITY AND LOCAL TRADITIONS, THE HOLIDAY SEASON DIDN’T END AT THE NEW YEAR, BUT EXTENDED WELL INTO FEBRUARY WITH LUNAR NEW YEAR AND CAMELLIA FESTIVAL CELEBRATIONS.

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Temple City Connect

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MARCH 9 Daylight Saving Time begins (2 a.m.)

10 Registration begins for spring camps (p. 33)

12 Arbor Day Celebration

Neighborhood Watch Meeting: Area 3

1 3 Registration begins for spring classes (p. 27)

18 City Council Reorganization

31 Pentathlon/Track & Field begins (p. 32)

APRIL 1 Commissioner, Youth Committee

recruitment begins

9 Make a Difference Day (p. 32)

10 Neighborhood Watch Meeting: Area 4

11 Adult Excursion: Spend the day in Solvang (p. 35)

14 Spring classes begin

Spring Camp, Teen Zone Session I

15 Spring Mini Soccer begins (p. 32)

19 Easter Egg Hunt & Pancake Breakfast (p. 26)

Spring Camp, Teen Zone Session II (p. 33)

25 Spring Fling (p. 33)

Commissioner applications due

26 Youth Sports Festival (p. 31)

MAY 3 Neighborhood Cleanup: Persimmon-Santa Anita

Focus Area

8 Neighborhood Watch Meeting: Area 5

10 Rosemead Boulevard GO! Grand Opening

Pitch, Hit & Run Baseball Skills Contest (p. 32)

Mother’s Day Tea

13 Jazz in the Park

17 Pentathlon All-City Meet (p. 32)

19 Registration begins for summer STARS, Teen Zone

24 Food Truck Festival (p. 36)

26 Memorial Day (City offices closed)

31 Youth Committee applications due

JUNE 1 Registration begins for summer basketball,

Mini Sports Camp, Camp-A-Palooza

12 Registration begins for summer classes

Neighborhood Watch Meeting: Area 6

13 Father’s Day Game Night

STAY CONNECTEDGet updates on City events

@ConnectwithTC

facebook.com/ConnectwithTC

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21-25

ARBOR DAY CELEBRATION 2-6 p.m., Live Oak ParkSoar above the trees to get a bird’s-eye-view of Temple City. The annual Arbor Day event features cherry-picker rides, tree plantings and educational activities to teach the importance and value of protecting Temple City’s urban forest.

COMMISSIONER RECRUITMENTApplications due April 25Passionate about community progress and local quality of life? Apply for a Commission and advise the City Council on City projects, programs and services. Vacancies for two-year terms are open on the Parks and Recreation, Planning, and Public Safety commissions.

YOUTH COMMITTEE RECRUITMENT Applications due May 31 Attention teenagers! We’re looking for Temple City’s next generation of leaders. If you are passionate about community service, government and politics, or youth issues, it’s time to raise your voice as part of Youth Committee. Two vacancies for one-year terms are open. For more information, call (626) 285-2171.

EASTER EGG HUNT & PANCAKE BREAKFAST 8-11:30 a.m., Live Oak Park Enjoy the fresh spring air at this annual family-favorite Easter celebration, featuring a pancake breakfast, and crafts and egg hunts for the little ones!

12MAR

1APR

19APR

ROSEMEAD BOULEVARD GO! 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Rosemead BoulevardJoin us for a community festival featuring guided bike rides, public art walking tours, a restaurant tasting, entertainment and much more! For event updates and RSVP information, visit www.rosemeadblvd.com.

10MAY

FARMER’S MARKETEvery Sunday, 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m., City Hall Get stocked for the week with fresh, seasonal and regionally sourced produce.

EVERY SUNDAY Farm Fresh Food

temple city

city calendar

Spring 2014

CITY CALENDAR FOR DETAILS, CALL (626) 285-2171.

LET’S TALK MONEY Dates TBA

See how tax dollars are put to work in funding City Hall operations, programs and services.

The annual budget process begins this spring, culminating in the adoption of a new budget

for Fiscal Year 2014-15 beginning July 1. Share your thoughts on how money

should be appropriated at an upcoming study session. For the latest info, check

www.templecity.us.

MOTHER’S DAY TEANoon-2 p.m., Live Oak Park AnnexCelebrate your very own Queen Mum with afternoon tea featuring sandwiches and crumpets. You’re sure to have a jolly good time with a hat craft, games and a special photo booth! Fee is $5 per person.

FOOD TRUCK FESTIVAL 11:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m., Live Oak ParkGive your Memorial Day weekend a kick with adventurous foods from fusion eats to sweet treats. Youngsters will also find thrill at the Kid Zone with activities and inflatable obstacle courses.

FATHER’S DAY GAME NIGHT6:30-9:30 p.m., Live Oak Park AnnexFamily fun night levels up with pizza and chicken wings, inflatable obstacles, a pool tournament, trivia and card games. Fee is $5 per person.

24MAY

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10MAY

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temple city

feature

In just the last few years, Temple City has undergone a considerable transformation

that’s included new bike lanes and landscaping added along Rosemead Boulevard,

and the Gateway shopping center now rising from ground up. Behind these efforts

are individual stakeholders both public and private, investing in the community’s

future growth and progress. While each of the select projects highlighted ranges in

scope and objective—from infrastructure modernization and maintenance, to land

use policy and commercial development—their improvements to the local landscape

are motivated by a shared priority: to better local quality of life.

BRIGHT IDEAS

BY WENDY CHUNG

Temple City Connect

9

ROSEMEAD BOULEVARDKnown as California’s first “complete streets” project, the Rosemead Boulevard Project makes enhancements to Temple City’s busiest corridor. Highlights include new sidewalks, directional wayfinding signage, the city’s first bike lanes, transit improvements and two new signalized intersections that will together promote overall roadway safety. Meanwhile, other amenities like public art, new landscaping and added seating areas are set to transform the boulevard into an attractive public space for pedestrian activity.

GENERAL PLANWhat will Temple City look like in 2050? We can’t know for sure, but through the General Plan, we can lay out a blueprint for the community’s future growth. The City is working with the public to gather input and identify goals for issues like transportation, land use, downtown, and parks and open space. The final result will be a comprehensive General Plan, detailing a set of visions and policies that will encourage the development of our ideal Temple City. Meetings for the General Plan are ongoing over the next two years. Find upcoming opportunities by visiting www.templecity.us.

BICYCLE INFRASTRUCTUREAfter completing its first-ever bicycle master plan in 2011, the City has swung into high gear installing new bikeways and infrastructure. With the help of two state grants totaling $922,000, work is underway to pave more than half of the plan’s proposed 26-mile route network. Already, a two-mile stretch of dedicated bike lanes has been paved along either side of Rosemead Boulevard, complete with landscaped medians to buffer cyclists from traffic on the city’s busiest

commuter corridor. In the next several months, 12.6 miles of additional lanes will be painted on streets citywide including Olive Street, and Longden and Golden West avenues. Hand in hand with the bikeways, new facilities and amenities—like signage, bike racks, and events like the annual community bike ride and safety education campaigns—elevate the convenience and awareness of local cycling.

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NON-CITY PROJECTS

UTILITY POLE UPGRADES SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA EDISON (SCE)

They may be unsightly,

and sometimes are

even in the way of an

otherwise picturesque

landscape shot or

sidewalk pedestrian

path. Nonetheless,

utility poles are a

necessity, connecting

us with electrical

power and communications signals. In

ongoing efforts to maintain existing lines

and improve protection against equipment

failure, SCE is replacing more than 200 utility

poles and underground vaults citywide. In

addition to the new equipment improving

conduit and energy efficiency, the project

also ensures that pole replacements meet

accessibility requirements for pedestrians

and wheelchairs. In some cases, the poles

are relocated, while in others, SCE has

added width to existing sidewalks. Because

poles are jointly used among different

utilities companies, this undertaking has

also triggered enhancements by AT&T and

Charter Communications.

OLSON COMPANYTHE OLSON COMPANY

For future residents of

the Olson Company’s

up-and-coming,

gated residential

community on Lower

Azusa Road, it’ll be

a new way of living

in Temple City. The

project, which sits on

six acres of a former

industrial lumberyard site, creates a new

neighborhood of 74 Spanish-style, single-

family and paired home units. Amenities

include residential access to art features

and four pocket parks, designed to

encourage residents to interact with

neighbors in day-to-day life, in social and

recreational settings. Construction is slated

to begin this summer with a model home

ready for show by this fall.

LONGDEN AVENUE SEWER REPLACEMENTFor the most part, our underground network of water lines and sewer pipes are out of sight, out of mind. But without proper maintenance, a ruptured pipeline could wreak havoc. As part of the 2008 Sewer Master Plan, the City identified aging pipes due for replacement and modernization. With help from a federal grant, work has begun to swap out a quarter-mile of the 50-plus year-old Longden Avenue sewer line between Rosemead Boulevard and Encinita Avenue. This project not only protects local soils from leaky pipes, but also upgrades the previously undersized 10-inch pipe to a 15-inch capacity, accommodating for population growth over the years. Work may result in intermittent traffic disruptions along Longden, but activities are expected to wrap up by mid-April.

SAFE ROUTES TO SCHOOL (SR2S)

Walking to school is cool again. As more students opt for the more active way of getting to class—that

is, walking or biking—the City is making improvements near nine local campuses to enhance pedestrian safety. The SR2S project, funded in part by nearly $432,000 in state grants, begins construction this spring to add new sidewalks, additional school zone signage, zebra-striped crossings, flashing speed feedback signs and pavement lighting. Together, the upgrades are designed to provide a safer environment for students walking to and from school. Incidentally, parents shuttling their children may even find reduced traffic congestion as more students may choose to travel on foot.

WHILE [EACH PROJECT] RANGES IN SCOPE AND OBJECTIVE...THEIR IMPROVEMENTS TO THE LOCAL LANDSCAPE ARE MOTIVATED BY A SHARED PRIORITY: TO BETTER LOCAL QUALITY OF LIFE.

Temple City Connect

11

UNIVERSAL PEDESTRIAN ACCESSIn continuing efforts to advance universal pedestrian access throughout Temple City, work continues on various projects to bring sidewalk infrastructure and public parking lots in compliance with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards. With help from federal Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funds—which are geared toward improvements for special needs populations—the City has made enhancements to remove sidewalk accessibility barriers (like steep slopes, potholes, discontinuous sidewalks); and installed about 120 sidewalk ramps citywide with textured “truncated domes” to provide a detectable surface and help visually impaired pedestrians distinguish sidewalk and street boundaries. Other work involves improvements at public parking lots to ensure an adequate level of ADA-accessible parking stalls.

NON-CITY PROJECTS

THE GATEWAY TEMPLE CITYTHE GATEWAY, LP

It’s been a long

time coming for the

Gateway shopping

center. The $20

million project,

located at the city’s

busiest Rosemead

Boulevard/Las Tunas

Drive intersection,

is the largest local

commercial development in over 20 years,

adding an additional 76,000 square feet

of business and office lease space in

Temple City. Beyond new shopping and

dining options, the Gateway includes a

plaza space with attractive green walls,

water fountains, sculptures and patio

areas for lively community activity.

Work is moving along quickly on the

underground parking structure, with

building construction scheduled for

completion by the end of this year.

TCUSD SCHOOL FACILITIES IMPROVEMENT PLANTEMPLE CITY UNIFIED SCHOOL DISTRICT (TCUSD)

Studies have shown

that environmental

factors influence

human behavior.

In a school setting,

even classroom

temperature

and lighting can

influence academic

performance. As

part of its $129 million bond measure

passed in 2012, TCUSD has begun work

to modernize classroom facilities and

technology at seven schools. So far,

159 interactive white boards have been

installed in classrooms district-wide,

with major construction set to begin this

summer at the high school. Highlights of

bond-funded improvements include a

new swimming pool and performing arts

center, as well as an updated stadium,

with all projects expected for completion

by 2035. While local students will

benefit most from an enriched learning

environment, the City’s shared use

agreement with the district also means

that community members will have

access to some of these upcoming

facilities and improvements.

TREE PROTECTION & MAINTENANCEDesignated by the Arbor Day Foundation as a Tree City USA for 10 consecutive years, Temple City boasts more than 6,000 street trees with benefits well beyond its $18 million valuation. In addition to beautifying our neighborhoods, local trees provide purification to surrounding air; shade and wind protection for residents; and habitat to birds and other wildlife. To ensure the community’s ability to continue reaping the many advantages of its leafy assets, the City Council passed the Tree Ordinance last December, setting new policies and regulations for the protection and maintenance of trees in the public realm. From a comprehensive master list of trees suitable for local planting, to new regulations and penalties against negligent or willful damage to public trees, the new ordinance provides the tools and protocols to promote the growth of a vibrant, diverse and healthy urban forest.

THE CITY HAS MADE ENHANCEMENTS TO REMOVE SIDEWALK ACCESSIBILITY BARRIERS AND INSTALLED ABOUT 120 SIDEWALK RAMPS CITYWIDE.

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PARKS & OPEN SPACE MASTER PLANBy national standards, 20 acres of parks is considered norm to accommodate 2,000 residents; but in Temple City, that same area—roughly 15 football fields—must suffice a population of 36,000. Over the last year, the Parks and Open Space Master Plan study has surveyed the community to help plan facilities and programming in the next 25 years. Input so far has resulted in a “wish list” for more walking and biking trails, cultural and community events, added wi-fi at parks, a swimming pool, and new fitness and wellness programs. Upon City Council adoption, anticipated this spring, an implementation strategy will be developed. While expanding parks is next to impossible without affordable vacant land, the City is exploring partnerships with other agencies. The City already has a limited shared facilities agreement with local school districts, and is looking to collaborate with the County on regional projects like the Emerald Horseshoe—which proposes adding nature trails along the Eaton Wash, as part of a larger 25-mile corridor going across the local foothill communities.

LAS TUNAS DRIVEDowntowns are widely considered the heart of a community, throbbing with vibrant culture, life and activity. While Las Tunas Drive suffered vacancies in the recent economic downturn, a revival is afoot with new businesses popping up in the last several years. To prod further investment and attract more commercial activity, the City initiated a streetscape plan last year to beautify the corridor and make it more pedestrian-friendly with public art, landscaping, added public seating and new midblock crosswalks. The urban design team has also proposed “flexible parking zones” which would enable businesses to apply for permits to temporarily blockade on-street parking spots for use as outdoor dining spaces or mini-parks. As the City continues into the next phase of design, there will be more opportunities for public involvement to further fine-tune the plan.

Temple City Connect

13

HEAVENLY PET RESORT

As a pet owner, when you need to leave town, you want to be assured your dog or cat will be well cared for in a clean, secure environment—maybe even pampered a bit. At Heavenly Pet Resort, that’s just the service owner Gloria Landaverde and her team promises.

Landaverde has had a lifelong passion for animals. As a former legal secretary, she spent her salary rescuing dogs and cats. Eventually, she flexed her entrepreneurial muscle and founded the original Heavenly Pet Resort in West Covina in 1997. Landaverde expanded to Temple City in 2006 and opened a third location in Upland two years later. Collectively, the three branches have a capacity of approximately 500 pets.

In Temple City, the resort occupies two converted homes on Encinita Avenue, with a labyrinth of guest quarters and playgrounds shielded from view. Overall, Landaverde has invested nearly $2.5 million in her Temple City facility, but is quick to point out, “I’m not done yet!” A fountain, swimming pool and additional doggy and kitty amenities are already in the planning stages.

A tour through the existing resort reveals enough community rooms and private quarters to comfortably house more than 150 pets. The layout evokes the feel of a New England motel for humans, complete with charming clapboard shingles, French doors

BY STEVE NATHAN

ALL PETS GO TO HEAVEN

and individual porch lights. Once here, four-legged guests enjoy amenities like flat-screen TVs, granite clad fireplaces, private VIP rooms with a view, and even mosaic tile floors.

“I didn’t want to just have bare concrete and commercial-grade tile…it would look so cold,” reports Landaverde, who admits these details are a luxury. “But the difference between the standard kennel and ours is that we provide the amenities your pets are used to at home,” says the dedicated owner.

While Landaverde originally selected Temple City as a strategic mid-point for customers traveling between West Covina and Pasadena, the community has grown on this businesswoman. “I really like the fact that it’s a very close community, and I feel very safe here,” she said.

Heavenly Pet Resort

5011 Encinita Ave., (626) 285-4441

www.heavenlypetresort.com

AS A BIG ANIMAL-LOVING COMMUNITY, TEMPLE CITY SUPPORTS A VIBRANT SELECTION OF SPECIALTY PET BUSINESSES. CHECK OUT A FEW OF THEM FOR YOUR OWN NONHUMAN COMPANION!BY SABINA LI

ANIMAL HOSPITALS When your beloved pet falls ill,

Temple City’s got two excellent

local animal hospitals to provide

care and treatment, ranging from

acupuncture to nutritional counseling.

Other services include adoptions,

microchipping and vaccinations.

Community Companion Hospital

5271 Sereno Dr., (626) 573-2650

communitycompanionanimalhospital.com

Temple City Animal Hospital

5406 Rosemead Blvd., (626) 287-1173

www.templecityanimalhospital.com

CLASSIC CUTS DOG GROOMING Get your dog a new ‘do at Classic

Cuts, offering services from washes

and trims, to nail cutting and ear

cleaning. Your dog will be feeling

refreshed in no time.

9217 Las Tunas Dr., (626) 286-4833

A+ TROPICAL FISHIs your goldfish lonely? Find it

some colorful fish friends, as well

as decorations and maintenance

equipment for your in-home aquarium.

5425 Rosemead Blvd., (626) 285-5296

SUPER PETSFor all things pet-related, Super

Pets is a one-stop shop, carrying

multiple brands of pet food, toys,

cages and more.

9403 Las Tunas Dr., (626) 237-0715

www.superpetsonline.com

GO GO SPA SELF SERVE DOG WASHSometimes giving your dog a shower

can lead to giving you and your whole

bathroom a shower. Avoid the mess

by going to Go Go Spa Self Serve

Dog Wash. All the materials needed

to clean your dog are provided.

5336 Rosemead Blvd., (626) 286-5678

www.gogospadogwash.com

temple city

counterparts

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temple city

feature

The culture of downtown has returned, giving local leaders an opportunity to

create excitement.BY STEVE NATHAN

DOWNTOWN STATE OF MIND

temple city

feature

DESPITE A HALF-CENTURY OF UNBRIDLED SUBURBANIZATION, EVERY AMERICAN CITY IS STILL LARGELY DEFINED BY ITS DOWNTOWN, WHETHER IT BE A CONSTELLATION OF GLASS-AND-STEEL TOWERS OR A TRADITIONAL “MAIN STREET” WITH A QUAINT COLLECTION OF SHOPS AND CAFÉS. IT’S NOT THE SIZE OF A CITY’S DOWNTOWN, NOR THE HEIGHTS OF ITS BUILDINGS, THAT DETERMINE ITS SUCCESS. FAR MORE IMPORTANT IS THE KIND OF RELATIONSHIP LOCAL CITIZENS AND VISITORS HAVE WITH THAT DISTRICT.

NOSTALGIA AND ENERGY

For most of American history, the importance of downtown was rarely questioned. But during the race to the suburbs after World War II, the excitement of the central city began falling out of favor, and massive suburban shopping malls ultimately dealt a lethal blow to central commercial districts. From Broadway in downtown Los Angeles to Las Tunas Drive in Temple City, once-vibrant streets were neglected, sometimes downright abandoned. With rare exceptions, this decline continued for decades, but since the arrival of the 21st century, that trend has seen a dramatic reversal.

Thanks in part to downtown-loving Millennials—the great-great-grandchildren of the generation that originally fled to the suburbs—central cities are considered cool again. Most major American downtowns have seen an increase in traffic, and many—Los Angeles is a prime example—have attracted new residents. There’s nothing like the energy of a downtown district, whether anchored by a massive entertainment complex or simply a historic town square.

According to Assistant to the City Manager Brian Haworth, a great downtown must be very distinct in character from other commercial settings in the community, and he believes a revitalized Las Tunas Drive must present a vastly different experience than Temple City’s strip malls. “It should represent the community’s unique and evolved heritage, and must be a multifunctional, multidimensional place,” he says.

Haworth insists the best downtowns accommodate multiple needs—pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists and transit riders—with the shared spirit that’s the essence of community life. A good downtown always provides opportunities to transition into pedestrian mode from one’s vehicle, regardless of how many wheels it has. In other words, adequate parking, bike storage and transit hubs are essential. And, of course, there must be enough shopping, dining, entertainment, open space and public art to tease the senses once people get out of those vehicles.

The most exciting and enjoyable downtowns also appeal to wide-ranging tastes, notes Haworth. “For me, the best downtowns are those that are culturally

diverse and celebrate the community’s heritage,” he says, noting that museums, galleries, theaters, and art installations often play a central role in the revitalization of central cities. “Diversity allows for an urban vibe—a critical component to the branding and sustainability of successful downtowns.”

CASE STUDIES

Rebuilding a downtown is a complex undertaking, wrought with controversy—which is why Planning Manager Geoffrey Starns insists: “Everybody has to be involved. It can’t be driven by the City or just business owners or just residents.” In most cases of successful downtown revitalization initiatives, government and the business community have collaborated, and the results required patience. Old Pasadena, for instance, was not always the vibrant collection of chic bistros and boutiques that it is today. Thirty years ago, that 22-block downtown district was suffering from severe neglect, its landmarks crumbling, and businesses plagued by crime and inadequate traffic circulation.

It wasn’t until the late 1980s when a few courageous restaurateurs staked out abandoned storefronts and the city created parking garages behind historic façades. A business improvement district (BID) was formed to fund security, maintenance and marketing. Today, Old Pasadena is one of the liveliest commercial districts in Southern California, but it took two decades to bring it back to life.

Even closer to home, a BID was recently established to promote and encourage

investment in Arcadia’s downtown district, which has long suffered in the shadows of the city’s 1.3 million-square-foot mall. Matt McSweeny, owner of Matt Denny’s Ale House Restaurant, organized downtown merchants in anticipation of a Gold Line Metro station opening in the neighborhood. As he recalls, he and his colleagues struggled to get a handful of people to some of the early meetings, but persistence paid off. Ultimately the city assisted in the effort and a BID was established.

“We thought we had something, and our consultant described our downtown as ‘having good bones’,” says McSweeny, who now serves as President of the Arcadia Improvement Association. The restaurateur focuses on long-range prospects, cautioning fellow merchants not to be impatient. “People need to have vision. Everything isn’t going to change the minute the Gold Line opens in 2016,” he says, suggesting it might even take a decade.

McSweeny is encouraged by developer interest in mixed-use projects near the station,

and points to South Pasadena as a comparable case study of downtown activity spiked by the arrival of the Metro Gold Line. He reports his group was drawn to a property-based BID concept—which assesses each property owner based on valuation—so that every business owner is made an active investor in the district. “When everybody has some skin in the game, things begin to change,” reports McSweeny, who says people have already begun improving their facades. “I plan on being here a long time and would like the area to benefit,” he says.

PERFECT TIMING

Temple City’s Las Tunas Drive is the place old-time residents fondly remember as a thriving commercial district, before the days when people headed off to Old Pasadena or Santa Anita Mall. Newer residents don’t share such memories, but many local Asian immigrants grew up in cities with strong downtown business districts and communal open-air markets. “I believe an overwhelming majority of the community is supportive and enthusiastic about revitalizing downtown,” states Haworth.

City leaders have reason to believe the time is ripe for that heretofore-elusive downtown renaissance. Not only is the regional economy growing at its fastest pace since 2007, but the concept of leaving the mall to shop in a downtown setting is now more popular with Americans than it has been in half a century. New signs of life are already evident on Las Tunas Drive, as entrepreneurial business owners

Pasadena Alhambra Arcadia

IN MOST CASES OF SUCCESSFUL DOWNTOWN REVITALIZATION INITIATIVES, GOVERNMENT AND THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY HAVE COLLABORATED, AND THE RESULTS REQUIRED PATIENCE.

Temple City Connect

17

temple city

feature

From Downtown L.A. and Third Street Promenade out west,

to Downtown Arcadia and Old Town Pasadena nearby,

downtowns have recently experienced a growth in popularity.

Discussions opened last year for a local Las Tunas Drive

revitalization, but just what makes a downtown vibrant?

We take a look at the roles of different key players.

CITY HALLBecause City revenues for public services are partly generated from

local sales taxes, the City has interest in local economic development.

While not directly involved in business promotions, there are some

things the City can do to ensure an attractive commercial district.

Last year, the discussion began on the Las Tunas Drive streetscape

plan, reimagining the downtown core as a more pedestrian-friendly

and lively community destination, featuring proposed public art,

outdoor dining opportunities, new bike lanes and new landscaping.

Other policies to encourage a more attractive environment include

updating the City’s Sign Code to allow more creative business signs,

and changing land use zoning to allow more diverse business mixes.

BUSINESS LEADERSFor local business owners and business organizations, pooling

resources can multiply benefits. Especially when it comes to

promotional programming, it’s often easier for businesses to

collaborate with the promise of a diverse shopping and dining

experience, as opposed to going it alone. One success story is Old

Pasadena, which formed a Business Improvement District (BID) to

raise funds that go back into enhancing and marketing the downtown

area. Additional resources supported programming such as music,

food and film festivals to attract new visitors into the district.

COMMUNITY

The most essential part of any downtown equation is community

buy-in. For Temple City, having residents shop local means tax dollars

are recycled back into the local economy to fund public services and

programs; while for businesses, local patronage usually translates

into repeat customers and a reinforced sense of community.

are transforming their storefronts, replacing dated ’50s façades with more contemporary, trendy designs.

Haworth specifically points to establishments like Café Roulé, UR Space, Golden Deli and Green Island Restaurant as key updated downtown properties whose investments have been rewarded with loyal customers driving in from well outside Temple City and the San Gabriel Valley. And for the most part, these improvements are driven by demand from young people, who identify with the attributes of a high-energy downtown environment.

To build on the signs of downtown renewal, the City launched various initiatives in recent years to encourage façade improvement and property maintenance. Last year, it also opened discussions for the Las Tunas Drive Enhancement and Beautification Plan, which proposes a modern, multimodal thoroughfare designed to foster growth. Through a series of community meetings, the architect developed plans for a reengineered street featuring a more pedestrian-oriented design, generous landscaping, wide sidewalks with alfresco dining, and bike lanes—which are documented to be business-friendly. At the core of the Las Tunas Drive Project is the concept of multimodality—which recognizes the need for downtowns to accommodate diverse visitors who may be arriving by various modes of transportation.

“A successful downtown encourages people to linger,” says Haworth. “The best downtowns are built to be comfortable, safe, attractive and interesting, which is what we hope will result from the upcoming Las Tunas project.” There are many challenges that must be overcome, acknowledges the administrator, citing absentee landlords who lack an emotional investment in downtown, skeptics and the lack of a core group of change agents who can mobilize property owners and businesspeople.

From his perspective, Starns is optimistic about the City’s linear commercial district because of the strong tradition of downtown activity in the community. “In Temple City, everybody cares about Las Tunas Drive,” he says, and adds, “A lot of cities’ downtowns are forgotten, but you don’t see that here.”

THE DOWNTOWN EXPERIENCE

18


GET INVOLVED Check www.templecity.us

for the latest opportunities to engage on

the Las Tunas Drive Project and General Plan

processes.

LOOKING FORWARD

Although Haworth identifies a lack of vision as one of the greatest impediments to achieving the community’s downtown goals, he sees the General Plan and Strategic Plan as means of creating that vision. The process of establishing a new General Plan—a document that presents a long-range blueprint for the community—has just recently been initiated and incorporates aggressive outreach to residents. If the City’s residents are genuinely interested in having an exciting, lively downtown, it will make its way into the General Plan, as well as the Strategic Plan, which prioritizes City policies.

“As a city, we can set up frameworks to encourage improvements to buildings, as well as the type of businesses and uses the community wants,” says Starns, maintaining that government is just one of many partners in an effective downtown strategy. He also

believes it’s important to remove some regulatory impediments so businesses have greater flexibility in creating a more attractive and lively commercial environment. The Planning Manager will be overseeing the update of the City’s Zoning Code and Sign Code to encourage design creativity and versatility on Las Tunas Drive.

“As for how ambitious the vision for downtown should be depends entirely on the community,” says Haworth, who encourages residents to remain engaged to ensure that Temple City’s future downtown reflects their visions, not those of consultants or staff. The Las Tunas Drive Project planning process and the just-commencing General Plan community outreach process are both critical opportunities for citizens to be heard on this subject.

Haworth encourages patience and cautions, “It’s fair to say that the best downtowns

don’t happen overnight,” reminding residents of case studies like Old Pasadena, a revitalization effort that took two decades to fully implement. He suggests that any downtown is always a work in progress and there’s really no finish line to the process. “As a downtown becomes more popular, it must constantly evolve to meet changing market and community demands,” he says. New generations will continually leave their own imprint on the district, and part of the excitement of a downtown is that it’s never stagnant.

As long as Temple City residents remain engaged, downtown will always be a reflection of the community’s values and aspirations.

NOT ONLY IS THE REGIONAL ECONOMY GROWING AT ITS FASTEST PACE SINCE 2007, BUT THE CONCEPT OF LEAVING THE MALL TO SHOP IN A DOWNTOWN SETTING IS NOW MORE POPULAR WITH AMERICANS THAN IT HAS BEEN IN HALF A CENTURY.

Temple City Connect

19

BY THE NUMBERS To execute the vision for a 21st century Rosemead Boulevard, contractor Los Angeles Engineering moved mountains of raw materials in reconstructing hardscape and adding beautification features.

20.7MILLION DOLLARS

427DAYS OF

CONSTRUCTION

7,500TONS OF ASPHALT

2NEW INTERSECTION

SIGNALS

THE STREET FOR EVERYONE:

ROSEMEAD BOULEVARD

temple city

feature

When Rosemead Boulevard

is unveiled on May 10, few will

recognize the former high-speed

highway, now a community

boulevard featuring amenities

and facilities that welcome

pedestrians, cyclists, transit users

and motorists alike. Landscape

architect Gruen Associates curates

the transformation.

WELCOME Whether entering from the north at Callita Street, or the south under the railroad bridge, Temple City visitors are welcomed by the striking row of palm trees and gateway monuments. The new City logo also makes appearances on signage and banners; while the new art walk celebrates the diversity of local culture and history.

BIKES ONLY There’s a new curb lane in town—and it’s not for cars to drive or park. The new separated/protected bike lanes on either side of Rosemead Boulevard allow cyclists to comfortably ride alongside cars in a 40 mph traffic zone.

WALK THIS WAY As part of larger efforts to enhance pedestrian facilities in Temple City, special considerations were taken to make sure Rosemead Boulevard’s continuous sidewalks were of proper slope and clearance to provide access for all users, on foot, wheelchair or otherwise.

20


Connect Spring 2014-LINOAA.indd 20 3/3/14 11:23 AM

450+NEW TREES

55PUBLIC ART FEATURES

249PEDESTRIAN

LIGHTS

3.8MILES CONTINUOUS PEDESTRIAN PATH

9SEATING NODES

18BUS

STOPS

BEFORE AFTER

May 10th 9 a.m.–1 p.m.

GRAND OPENINGGet the full event lineup at www.rosemeadblvd.com.

Sign up for art walks, bike rides and more!MULTIMODAL

For comfort and usability, every detail was carefully planned. Bike racks are placed next to bus stops for convenient access. Designers even considered how sunlight hits the boulevard to position trees for shade, and pedestrian lights for highlighting public art at night.

GOING GREEN Eco-conscious features include drought-tolerant landscaping, a roadway repaved with recycled tire material, and bicycle buffer medians that use storm water runoff to sustain new trees and landscaping. In addition, new green life provides shade and cooling for the surrounding environment, reducing the urban heat island effect.

USER-FRIENDLY While preserving two traffic lanes in each direction, the new Rosemead Boulevard design reconfigures the roadway to add new landscaped medians in formerly striped-off areas. With the new asphalt resurfacing, commuters coming down Rosemead Boulevard are sure to have a prettier and more pleasant drive.

Temple City Connect

21


COMMUNITY VALUE$

Maintaining community amenities can be expensive,

but for those who value high quality of life, the

payoff makes investment well worth it.

BY STEVE NATHAN

temple city

feature

22


A COMMITMENT The elements that contribute to an enviable quality of life—safe, attractive parks and open space, streets free of potholes, downtown districts that are accessible and vibrant—all require investment in effort, time and money to manage and maintain, and prices to provide and sustain these amenities can be staggeringly high. As such, many communities—particularly in challenging economic times—choose not to fund them. But for residents who do prize good streets, new parks and modernized civic centers, they must then accept the prices of such projects and leaders must seek creative but responsible ways to finance them.

In Temple City, that is the issue now up for discussion. As residents and leaders plan for the community’s future, it is crucial to remain informed and realistic of associated costs for amenities, then make decisions about allocating resources. Facilitating this dialogue, Administrative Services Director Tracey Hause—who emphasizes the importance of sound long-term financial decisions—made Temple City the first municipality in Southern California to adopt Priority-Based Budgeting (PBB) to assist in those efforts and enhance public participation. “Ensuring the quality of life

Great communities don’t happen by

accident, but are the products of citizen

involvement, thoughtful planning and

prudent investment. In such places, residents work

with their local government to institute innovative

policies and programs. In these highly successful

municipalities, there is also recognition by all

parties that excellence has a cost; and the degree

of investment ultimately pays back in increased

property values and enhanced community life.

you enjoy—which includes infrastructure like good streets and areas for recreational or cultural activities—requires a financial commitment,” she says.

With limited tax dollars, Hause explains that communities sometimes turn to financing projects through bond issues. The sale of bonds generates revenue for critical capital improvement projects, but also incurs debt. With some municipalities facing insolvency and others compromising their credit ratings by piling up unsustainable expenditures, the issuance of new bonds raises complex economic and political questions.

THE MARKET MATTERSFortunately, Temple City enjoys an unusual economic phenomenon that makes raising revenues more palatable. While most cities in Los Angeles County are still playing catch-up from the recession, property values in Temple City are hitting all-time highs—at time of publication, the median price of a single-family home had risen to $633,000. That translates into a sense of confidence among homeowners, who may be less averse to new assessments than property owners in cities with more stagnant real estate markets.

In California, as a result of Proposition 13, property taxes are essentially frozen based

on the assessed value at time of purchase. Although annual increases up to two percent are permitted, the story is far different in many states where rapid increases in property valuation automatically trigger proportionate hikes in taxes. As such, in California, an environment of accelerating home prices but relatively stable property taxes makes modest assessments related to bond issues or special districts easier to accept than in states with more aggressive property taxation policies.

“We’ve seen an unprecedented rise in property values that have not occurred in other comparable communities,” reports Hause, noting Temple City is one of only five Los Angeles County municipalities (out of 88) in which home values have rebounded to pre-recession, 2006-2007 levels. Arcadia, Bradbury, San Marino, and Santa Monica are the only other communities enjoying that success. Meanwhile, values in the County as a whole remain 25 percent below their pre-recession heights. These figures speak volumes about the desirability of Temple City, and create a more secure environment for addressing tough financial decisions.

Hause cautions, however, against assuming that rising property values translates into a windfall of revenue for the City. First, a large number of properties are frozen at 1975 levels—the initial base year for Prop 13; while many others are taxed on assessed valuations from the 1980s and 1990s, before home prices increased dramatically. Additionally, Hause explains that Temple City receives only a relatively small share of total property taxes—no more than six cents on every dollar of property tax paid—which is a smaller cut of the overall property tax bill than many cities in California. The annual property tax for a recently purchased $633,000 home, for instance, is approximately $6,330, but only about $419 is collected by the City. The vast majority of those revenues benefit the County of Los Angeles, and local school and community college districts.

Temple City Connect

23

GOVERNMENT SOLUTIONS Hause is also quick to note that there’s no guarantee that valuations will continue to rise, and that local government must play a critical role in sustaining healthy economic conditions. “We’ve got a very strong real estate market,” she says, but insists valuations don’t exist in a vacuum. “If you want to maintain, or further increase them, you have to reinvest in your infrastructure to support those values,” says Hause. In Southern California, where prospective homebuyers have many choices, property values will fail to rise when streets, parks and community centers are not properly maintained, or when a community’s commitment to public safety wavers.

In Temple City, residents have already participated in a number of farsighted planning processes that have determined a need for new parking facilities, an expansion of park and recreational space, and a network of bike lanes that will make the community more attractive and competitive. Without proper resources, community leaders recognize that these ideas will not be implemented. Many point out that the City’s General Fund budget of $11.8 million should not be used as an excuse for inaction; but rather, should motivate the community to seek alternative mechanisms to fund desired improvements.

POTHOLE POLITICS One of the functions of local government that is most relatable to residents of all sizes and stripes is the responsibility of keeping roads in decent condition, resulting in the perennial link between potholes and politics. In recent years, Temple City has invested approximately $1 million annually on street maintenance, primarily from Gas Tax funds. Yet even with that degree of attention, the community’s overall Pavement Condition Index (PCI)—this is a uniform transportation engineering standard—ranks only as “good,” or the scholastic equivalent of a “C.” The average PCI for residential streets is even more disappointing, rating only “fair” or “D.”

The goal is to upgrade the citywide PCI to a “B,” because few buyers of $600,000 homes are likely to tolerate inadequate street conditions. Noting the importance of aggressive investments in infrastructure, Hause explains, “Sustainable spending for street improvements avoids expensive deferred maintenance and reconstruction.” As Michael Busch, President of Urban Futures, Inc.

PROPERTY TAX Out of every dollar collected by the County, only about $0.06 is reallocated to the City. The bulk of the

rest goes to other agencies, such as the County for fire, school, sanitation and other services; and school districts for education. Even though property values have increased in recent years, because of Prop 13, property taxes are essentially frozen based on value at the time of purchase. Because

many homes in Temple City were purchased before the 1990s, the amount of tax being paid on many properties do not reflect the high home prices, as growth in valuation has far outpaced taxes.

INVESTING IN NEIGHBORHOODS To increase levels of City services and community amenities, residents have the choice to increase investment in their neighborhoods through property assessments or bonds.

Benefit Assessment District* Assesses only properties that directly benefit from the new services or improvements being financed. Assessments per parcel are calculated based on a “benefit formula,” according to the specific benefit received.

General Obligation Bond* Assesses all property owners proportionately based on land valuation. This type of assessment is typically used to finance improvements which benefit the entire community—e.g., city halls, community centers, citywide infrastructure projects, etc.

BREAKING IT DOWNHigh property values are an indication of a well-rounded and complete

neighborhood. In addition to high-achieving schools and attractive homes,

another part of the equation is excellent community amenities. In Temple

City—which has seen one of the County’s fastest growth rates in assessed

valuation over the last several years—discussions are underway to address

how the community could sustain positive growth. While studies have been

developed to address such issues as pavement management and parks

and open space, any new programs and projects would depend heavily

on the availability of funding beyond the current maintenance-level

budget. One option up for consideration is property assessments—

an investment into the neighborhood that would essentially pay

back in continued valuation growth.

*Any decision regarding assessment districts or bonds are decided by ballot.

TEMPLE CITY PROPERTY TAX DOLLAR BREAKDOWN

Out of every dollar collected by the County, only about $0.06 is reallocated to the City.

24


(UFI), who advises public agencies on bond measures, elaborates: “As streets further erode, the cost of the repairs grows exponentially and outpaces the ability to save resources to fund maintenance.”

Busch and his colleagues are often confronted with recommending additional debt to local leaders who may be very fiscally conservative, and sometimes the less expensive approach may, in fact, be incurring debt in a prudent and responsible manner. “For construction projects such as street improvements, you can chart the PCI with the construction costs against interest rates for debt and investment,” explains Busch. “If construction costs are higher and rising faster than interest rates, it may be cost-effective to finance projects,” he adds.

include financing of new sewer or water lines, roads, or parks in a particular neighborhood.

THE COST OF DREAMING BIGNo property owner is eager to see a special assessment on their tax bills, and many residents are opposed to having their community incur additional debt. However, capital improvements like streets and parks require sufficient funding. The City has gone to great lengths to engage the public in the process of creating a Parking Master Plan, Bike Master Plan, Parks and Open Space Master Plan, and Pavement Management Plan. For the most part, residents have expressed high aspirations for the future of Temple City.

But while all those plans include ambitious goals that would enhance residents’ quality of life, without proper resources—which may involve assessment districts or bond issues—those documents will only collect dust on a shelf. Ultimately, Temple City residents will choose the strategy, based on the values of the community.

SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS on community

investment and finance during the budget

process. Check www.templecity.us for

upcoming meetings.

The elements that

contribute to an enviable

quality of life—safe,

attractive parks and

open space, streets free

of potholes, downtown

districts that are accessible

and vibrant—all require

investment in effort, time

and money to manage

and maintain.

or interest obligations. Benefit Assessment Districts are created for certain areas, and annual assessments are levied on property owners who directly benefit from the street improvements being financed. Ultimately, the amount of assessment is determined by the amount of benefit received.

Another commonly used mechanism is the General Obligation Bond, which assesses all city property owners proportionately, based on their land’s valuation. As Busch explains, “General Obligation Bonds typically finance improvements which benefit the entire community—such as city halls, community centers and citywide infrastructure projects.” Since these bonds are backed by the full faith and credit of the municipality, they are viewed as less risky by investors.

A hybrid of the two is also possible. Some municipalities issue bonds to fund major capital projects, while using the revenue generated by a Benefit Assessment District to meet debt service on those bonds. These bonds are commonly issued as Community Facilities District (CFD) Bonds, which are sometimes more politically appealing because they limit the cost to those benefiting from the improvements, while sparing property owners outside the area. Typical uses would

PAYMENT PLANSA high quality of life—which clearly includes the absence of crater-sized potholes—costs money. Unfortunately, Temple City’s General Fund doesn’t have adequate revenue streams to upgrade and maintain the street network at a “B,” so other funding sources must be considered.

For street repairs, Busch sees a Benefit Assessment District as the most appropriate strategy, as this mechanism doesn’t necessarily require the issuance of bonds, and the City does not incur additional debt

Temple City Connect

25

Easter Egg Hunt & Pancake Breakfast SATURDAY, APRIL 19 8-11:30 A.M. LIVE OAK PARK

Pancake Breakfast 8-11:30 A.M.$5/person includes two pancakes, bacon and a beverage.

Tickets go on sale April 7 at Live Oak Park Annex.uPlay Time9-11 A.M.Get your photo with the Easter Bunny, join an egg hunt or explore our Kids Zone featuring a petting zoo, edible spring crafts and face painting!uEgg Hunt 10 A.M. AGES 1-5 10:30 A.M. AGES 6-9In the event of rain, egg hunts will be cancelled.


ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

EDUCATIONAL

FREE

NEW

DON’T JUST STAND THERE! GET YOUR BODY MOVING AND YOUR BRAIN THINKING WITH STIMULATING CLASSES OFFERED BY OUR PARKS AND RECREATION DEPARTMENT.

Sign up for classes in person, by mail or online at www.templecity.us starting March 13. Registration forms can be obtained at Live Oak Park Community Center, 10144 Bogue St. Incomplete applications or checks may result in failed enrollment. Space is limited, so reserve early! For details, call the Parks and Recreation Department at (626) 579-0461.

Unless otherwise noted, classes begin the week of April 14 at Live Oak Park. There will be no class April 19 and May 26, and during the evening of April 25. Class schedules and prices are subject to change.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

CLASSES

Child Development . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Dance . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Educational. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28

Fitness. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Music and Production. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29

Self Defense and Martial Arts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30

Special Interest . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Sports . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

YOUTH SPORTS

Skills and League Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

YOUTH & TEENS

Teen Programs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33

SENIORS

Senior Programs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Senior Excursions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35

CLASS KEY

temple city

recreation guide

Get

Act

ive!

EASTER EGG HUNT & PANCAKE BREAKFASTAPRIL 19, 8-11:30 A.M. LIVE OAK PARK

YO

UT

H S

PO

RT

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& T

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Temple City Connect

27

ClassesCHILD DEVELOPMENT

LITTLE STARS Recreation Leaders

Bond with your tot through song, game, stories and crafts in this parent participation class.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/15-3/20 2 yrs. T/Th 9:30-10:45 a.m. $1004/15-3/20 1 yr. T/Th 11-11:45 a.m. $65

TINY TOTS Sarah Nichols Tiny Tots

Toddlers can build social skills, make new friends and learn independence while experiencing music, art projects and group activities. Children must be at least three years old and potty-trained by the first class. In-person registration required with proof of birth date and immunization record.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/14-6/26 3-5 yrs. M/W/F 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $3404/15-6/27 3-5 yrs. T/Th 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $250

DANCE

ADULT JAZZ/TAP Shekinah Glory School of Dance

Taught by a West Coast Nationals champion, this class will help you master levels of jazz and tap dance.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/17-6/5 16+ yrs. Th 6-6:45 p.m. $58

BALLET & TAP Shekinah Glory School of Dance

Students will be instructed in classical and modern dance technique from beginning to advanced levels, including barre work for advanced students. Tap and ballet shoes required.

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/18-6/6 Tots 2 yrs. F 2:15-2:45 p.m. $584/18-6/6 Tots 3 yrs. F 2:45-3:15 p.m. $584/18-6/6 Petite 4-5 yrs. F 3:15-4 p.m. $684/18-6/6 Beg. 6-8 yrs. F 4-4:45 p.m. $684/18-6/6 Jr.-Adv. 8+ yrs. F 4:45-5:45 p.m. $68

BALLROOM DANCE Robert Chin

Have fun while learning the latest routines and techniques. Dances include the Cha-Cha, Rumba, Samba, Waltz, Tango and Foxtrot. Dance shoes required.

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/26-6/28 Beg./Int . 16+ yrs. S 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $58

COMPETITION DANCE STYLE Shekinah Glory School of Dance

Train for stage performance in ballet, hip-hop, jazz and lyrical dance. Experience required. Choreography by a West Coast Nationals champion.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/17-6/5 8-16 yrs. Th 5-6 p.m. $58

JAZZ Shekinah Glory School of Dance

Students will be instructed in traditional jazz. Instruction includes proper technique, stretching and muscle conditioning. Jazz shoes required.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/17-6/5 6-8 yrs. Th 3:30-4:15 p.m. $584/17-6/5 9-16 yrs. Th 4:15-5 p.m. $58

LINE DANCE Bill Chang

Step into this old Western dance—with a twist! Learn basic line dancing set to country and non-country music. Level I for beginners; levels II and III for experienced dancers.

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/18-6/27 Level II 15+ yrs. F 6:20-7:50 p.m. $604/18-6/27 Level III 15+ yrs. F 8-9:30 p.m. $604/15-6/17 Level II 15+ yrs. T 7:40-9:10 p.m. $604/14-6/23 Level I 15+ yrs. M 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. $604/17-6/19 Level III 15+ yrs. Th 9-10:30 a.m. $604/15-6/17 Level I 15+ yrs. T 6-7:30 p.m. $604/16-6/18 Level I 15+ yrs. W 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. $604/18-6/20 Level II 15+ yrs. F 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m. $60

EDUCATIONAL

BRICKS 4 KIDZ Bricks 4 Kidz

Have loads of fun—and learn a bunch!—using LEGO® bricks to explore the worlds of engineering and architecture.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/15-5/20 6-10 yrs. T 3:30-4:30 p.m. $85

COMPUTER ADVENTURES ALL AGES AGI Academy

This course is designed especially for learners who are interested in sharpening their computer skills in Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel. $10 supply fee due at first class.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/18-5/23 8+ yrs. F 8-9 p.m. $885/30-6/27 8+ yrs. F 8-9 p.m. $88

COMPUTERS FOR SENIORS-ENGLISH AGI Academy

It’s never too late to learn! Get hands-on practice with basic computer usage and word processing. $10 supply fee due at first class.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/18-5/23 50+ yrs. F 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m. $595/30-6/27 50+ yrs. F 11:15 a.m.-12 p.m. $59

COMPUTERS FOR SENIORS MANDARIAN/CANTONESEAGI Academy

Learn and master basic computer usage and word processing skills for users fluent in Mandarin or Cantonese. $10 supply fee due at first class.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/18-5/23 50+ yrs. F 12:30-1:15 p.m. $595/30-6/27 50+ yrs. F 12:30-1:15 p.m. $59

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FITNESS

50+ CARDIO DANCE & STRENGTH TRAINING Amy’s Health & Fitness

Build strength through a fusion of low-impact, high-energy dance and exercise. Bring two light hand weights (2-3 lbs. each).

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/14-6/23 50+ yrs. M 8:15-9:45 a.m. $434/16-6/18 50+ yrs. W 8:15-9:45 a.m. $434/14-6/23 50+ yrs. M/W 8:15-9:45 a.m. $73

60+ STRONGER SENIOR CORE FITNESS Amy’s Health & Fitness

Burn calories, reduce stress and build strength in the comfort of your chair with gentle stretching and relaxation techniques. Bring two light hand weights (2-3 lbs. each).

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/14-6/23 60+ yrs. M/W 9-9:45 a.m. $35

HATHA YOGA Michael Appleby

Balance, strengthen, align and flex. A well-developed mind-body rapport brings better health and well-being. Yoga mat required.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/14-6/23 16+ yrs. M 7-9 p.m. $45

KICKBOXING CARDIO DANCE CHALLENGE & STRENGTH TRAINING Amy’s Health & Fitness

Combine the intensity and power of kickboxing with the playfulness and fun of dance for a unique workout. Bring two light hand weights (2-3 lbs. each). Exercise mat required.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/17-6/19 16+ yrs. Th 7-8:30 p.m. $50

SENIOR FITNESS SWEATING TO THE OLDIES

Amy’s Health & Fitness

Burn calories and strengthen your heart while singing along to your favorite hits of the ’50s and ’60s. You’ll have so much fun, you’ll forget you’re exercising! In-person registration required; space limited. (Class is free for those enrolled in M/W 50+ Cardio Dance & Strength Training, who meet age requirements.)

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/18-6/27 60+ yrs. F 8:30-9:45 a.m. $10

SLIM & TONE PILATES/RESISTANCE BAND TRAINING Amy’s Health & Fitness

Trim your waistline with core exercises that also help stabilize your entire body. Yoga mat required.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/26-6/28 16+ yrs. S 8:45-10:15 a.m. $50

TOTAL YOGA BEAT STRESS AND TONE Amy’s Health & Fitness

Feel invigorated from the inside-out through a flowing series of dynamic poses. Great for beginner and intermediate level students. Fitness mat required.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/16-6/18 16+ yrs. W 7-8:30 p.m. $50

MUSIC AND PRODUCTION

CHILDREN’S MUSICAL THEATER Kids Music N’ Motion Staff

Students are taught basic theatre, improvisation skills and vocal techniques using music from major Broadway musicals. Performance for family and friends held at the end of the session. $25 materials fee due at first class.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/26-5/24 5-13 yrs. S 9-9:45 a.m. $655/31-6/28 5-13 yrs. S 9-9:45 a.m. $65

FLUTE ARK International

Learn the fundamentals of playing a flute. No experience required. $10 materials fee due at first class.

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/17-5/15 Beg. 8+ yrs. Th 4:30-5 p.m. $705/22-6/19 Int. 8+ yrs. Th 4:30-5 p.m. $70

GROUP PIANO LESSONS Kids Music N’ Motion Staff

Learn basic note recognition, keyboard scales and music theory in a group setting. Each class includes keyboards for students. $25 materials fee due at first class.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE 4/26-5/24 4-6 yrs. S 12-12:45 p.m. $65 5/31-6/28 4-6 yrs. S 1-1:45 p.m. $65 4/26-5/24 4-6 yrs. S 1-1:45 p.m. $65 5/31-6/28 7-10 yrs. S 1:45-2:30 p.m. $65 5/31-6/28 7-10 yrs. S 2:30-3:15 p.m. $65

INTRODUCING ACTIVENETRegistering online for recreation classes is simpler than ever with ActiveNet. Just create an account and enroll in various programs with a few clicks of the button.

Get Started

All returning and new customers will need to create an account using their email addresses. The City is no longer using RecConnect, so former pin codes are no longer valid.

Create a New Account

Access ActiveNet at www.templecity.us, and follow these instructions:

1. Select “Create Account” and complete all required information— email address, username, password, contact information.

2. When done, hit “Submit.” You will receive a confirmation email to activate your account.

3. Add members to enroll and pay for recreation classes and programs under one main account.

Key Features

Stored information. ActiveNet remembers your contact and billing information for quick and easy registration.More options. Members are now able to enroll online for more activities, including classes, senior programs and youth sports.Account management. Users have convenient 24/7 access to their ActiveNet accounts.

FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL (626) 579-0461.

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MUSIC N’ MOTION—MUSIC CLASSES Kids Music N’ Motion Staff

Get introduced to instruments, orchestra, creative movement, singing, listening and rhythm. Parents and children will learn new songs weekly including holiday, traditional, folk and multicultural music.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE 4/26-5/24 0-2.5 yrs. S 10-10:45 a.m. $555/31-6/28 0-2.5 yrs. S 10-10:45 a.m. $554/26-5/24 2.5-5 yrs. S 11-11:45 a.m. $555/31-6/28 2.5-5 yrs. S 11-11:45 a.m. $55

PIANO, PIANO! Music, Math & More

Learn to read piano notes and play basic songs. Bring a three-ring binder and 20 sheet protectors to the first class.

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/14-6/9 Beg. 5+ yrs. M 4-4:30 p.m. $804/14-6/9 Int. 7+ yrs. M 4:30-5 p.m. $80

VIOLIN Kids Music N’ Motion Staff

Learn the fundamentals of playing a violin. No experience required.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/26-5/24 5-8 yrs. S 3:15-4:30 p.m. $655/31-6/28 5-8 yrs. S 3:15-4:30 p.m. $655/31-6/28 9-13 yrs. S 4:30-5:15 p.m. $65

VOCAL–POPULAR SONG ARK International

Calling all singers! Come learn the fundamentals of singing—including breathing technique, vocal power range, pitch and rhythm skills. $10 material fee due at first class.

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/17-5/15 Beg. 8+ yrs. Th 5-6 p.m. $705/22-6/19 Int. 8+ yrs. Th 5-6 p.m. $70

SELF DEFENSE AND MARTIAL ARTS

HAPKIDO Son of Chong Martial Arts

Practice self-defense techniques including joint locks and kicks. Lessons also include breathing and meditation. Students must provide their own uniform, which may be purchased from the instructor.

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/15-6/19 Beg. 5-9 yrs. T/Th 3-4:15 p.m. $804/15-6/19 Int./Adv. 9+ yrs. T/Th 4:30-5:45 p.m. $80

JU-JITSU & JAPANESE SWORD Rojen Recreation

Learn the fundamentals of traditional martial arts—Judo, Aikido, Kendo—and the weapons of self-defense. Second hour of instruction covers the basics of Iaido, the art of Japanese swordsmanship.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/18-6/27 15+ yrs. F 7-8:30 p.m. $61

JU-JITSU & KARATE Jennies Gym

Build strength while learning martial arts techniques for self-defense. Lessons include Judo, Aikido, Kendo and Karate.

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/15-6/19 All levels 13+ yrs. T/Th 8-9 p.m. $61 4/15-6/19 New 8-12 yrs. T/Th 6-7 p.m. $614/15-6/19 Grn. Belt+ 8-12 yrs. T/Th 7-8 p.m. $61

LITTLE KICKERS JU-JITSU Jennies Gym

Teaches self-esteem and discipline through age-appropriate martial arts lessons.

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/18-6/27 New 5-7 yrs. F 4:30-5:15 p.m. $494/18-6/27 Ylw Belt+ 5-7 yrs. F 5:15-6 p.m. $494/18-6/27 All levels 8+ yrs. F 6-7 p.m. $56

NIPPON KEMPO KARATE Do Mar

Develop respect, discipline and confidence through this self-defense system based on punching, kicking, blocking, joint locks and ground combat.

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/14-6/23 All levels 7+ yrs. M/W 6:30-8 p.m. $554/16-6/18 New 5-9 yrs. W 5:40-6:25 p.m. $344/14-6/23 Ylw Belt + 5-10 yrs. M 5:40-6:25 p.m. $34

MEET THE COACH Amy Rangsipat, 59 / Amy’s Health & Fitness

How did you get into coaching? A long time ago, I was taking classes at the YMCA. I enjoyed them and thought teaching recreation was something I could do as well—if not better!

What do you enjoy about coaching? The people. I’ve lived in Temple City for 33 years and have been teaching at Live Oak Park Community Center since it opened—I can’t even remember how many years it has been. My students are like family. They’re growing old with me, but they also stay strong with me—and that’s my motivation. I’ve never been late or missed a class because we enjoy each other so much!

What’s something you like to do outside of teaching? I love plants and I love to garden. You name it, I grow it—my house looks like a park!

Fun fact about yourself? I’m a good dancer. I just turn on the music and do my Latin hips!

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SPECIAL INTEREST

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN Jennies Gym

Let’s get cooking! Little chefs will learn their way around the kitchen, practicing new skills, techniques and recipes. $25 materials fee due at first class.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/16-6/4 5+ yrs. W 4:45-5:45 p.m. $53

LITTLE PICASSOS Jennies Gym

Explore the imagination with art! Children will use a variety of media to explore the foundations and concepts of the creative field. Students must provide their own smock. $25 materials fee due at first class.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/16-6/4 5+ yrs. M 3:30-4:30 p.m. $48

SPORTS

GYMNASTICS & TRAMPOLINE Jennies Gym

Young gymnasts will learn basic tumbling skills and exercises on the balance beam, bars, vault and trampoline. New students will be evaluated and grouped by ability.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/26-6/28 4-7 yrs. S 10:30-11:30 a.m. $714/26-6/28 7-15 yrs. S 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $714/26-6/28 13+ yrs. S 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. $71

KINDERGYM Jennies Gym

Kids are not the only ones allowed to have fun, since parents get to come too! You’ll learn forward rolls, back rolls, handstands and more with your kids. Together, you’ll walk the balance beam, swing on bars and jump on the trampoline! One parent per child must attend each class.

DATES AGE DAY TIME FEE4/26-6/28 9 mos.-2 yrs. S 9-9:45 a.m. $714/26-6/28 3-4 yrs. S 9:45-10:30 a.m. $71

TENNIS ACADEMY TJP Tennis Professionals

Have fun while preparing for match play. Challenge yourself with physically demanding court workouts and drills. Tennis shoes required. Bring a racquet and new can of three tennis balls to the first class. (*Advance students may enroll in the extended class for competitive match play from 9-9:50 p.m.)

DATES LEVEL AGE DAY TIME FEE4/14-6/9 Beg./Int. 8-12 yrs. M 6-7 p.m. $854/16-6/4 Beg./Int. 8-12 yrs. W 3:30-4:30 p.m. $854/14-6/9 Int./Adv. 8-13 yrs. M 7-8 p.m. $854/18-6/6 Beg./Int. 8-12 yrs. F 6-7 p.m. $854/18-6/6 Int./Adv. 8-13 yrs. F 7-8 p.m. $854/16-6/4 Beg. 14+ yrs. W 6-7 p.m. $854/16-6/4 Int. 18+ yrs. W 7-8 p.m. $854/16-6/4 *Adv./Team 18+ yrs. W 8-9/9-9:50 p.m. $85/125

ACTIVITY ZONES

Find your style of fitness with exciting sports play and recreational games! The competitive will enjoy tennis, football, soccer, baseball, softball and golf, while the adventuresome won’t want to miss rock-climbing and bungee jumping!

LIVE PERFORMANCES

Watch exciting dance, gymnastics and martial arts demonstrations, and sign up for classes to learn how to move like the masters!

INFO & SIGN-UPS

Learn how you can stay fit year-round with information for class and sports offerings from the City; as well as upcoming baseball, softball, soccer and football seasons for various youth athletics organizations.

DON’T JUST SIT AROUND—GET UP AND MOVE!

Mark your calendars—the First Annual

Youth Sports Festival is coming! Kids ages

3–15 will discover ways to get active and

stay fit right here in Temple City.

YOUTH SPORTS FESTIVALAPRIL 26, 10 A.M.-3 P.M. LIVE OAK PARK, FREE

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Youth SportsThe City offers skills and league programs for

youth ages 3.5 years and up. Register now online

through ActiveNet at www.templecity.us, or

in person at Live Oak Park Community Center.

Unless otherwise noted, cost includes an award,

t-shirt and $10 nonrefundable administrative fee.

For more information, call (626) 579-0461.

MINI-SOCCER Get your youngster familiar with the most popular sport in the world! This eight-week session teaches fundamental skills and rules, while allowing young athletes to learn sportsmanship, make new friends and just have fun!

DATES AGE LEVEL DAY TIME FEE4/15-6/5 3.5-5 yrs. Beg./Int. T/Th 4-5 p.m. $654/15-6/5 6-7 yrs. Beg./Int. T/Th 5-6 p.m. $65

PENTATHLON Young athletes stay active in this coed program, training for five different track and field events—50-meter dash, 400-meter run, softball throw for distance, standing long jump and standing triple jump. Instructional clinics begin March 31 at STARS Club sites and Live Oak Park, culminating in an All-City Pentathlon Meet at Live Oak Park on Saturday, May 17. Enroll at STARS Club sites or Live Oak Park Community Center.

SITE DATES GRADE DAY TIME FEECloverly 3/31-5/17 2nd-6th M/W 4-5 p.m. $10Cleminson 3/31-5/17 2nd-6th M/W 4-5 p.m. $10Emperor 3/31-5/17 2nd-6th M/W 4-5 p.m. $10La Rosa 3/31-5/17 2nd-6th M/W 4-5 p.m. $10Longden 3/31-5/17 2nd-6th M/W 4-5 p.m. $10Live Oak Park 3/31-5/17 2nd-6th M/W 4-5 p.m. $10

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PITCH, HIT & RUN SKILLS CONTESTMAY 10, 10 A.M., LIVE OAK PARK

Does your kid dream of reaching the All Stars? Boys and girls ages 7-14 compete in individual and team events, advancing through various level of local and sectional competition. Athletes who prove their skills in pitching, batting and sprinting for home may land a spot at the National Finals during the Major League Baseball All-Star Game. Registration is taken at the event. Proof of age and a parent/guardian signature are required for participation.

TRACK & FIELD Boys and girls ages 7-14 years train to compete in the San Gabriel Valley Municipal Athletic Association Track & Field Meet on May 3. Events include high jump, softball throw, long jump, triple jump, long distance runs and short sprints. Some may qualify for the Southern California regional meet in late May.

SITE DATES AGE DAY TIME FEELive Oak Park 3/31-5/3 7-14 M/W 4-5 p.m. $10

Showcase your artistic talent while celebrating the spirit of youth

volunteerism! Temple Citians ages 3–18 are encouraged to enter the City’s

poster contest themed “How I Can Make A Difference in My Community.”

Artwork should reflect the idea that people can make a positive impact

in their hometown, and in the world.

Entries will be displayed at a special afterschool reception on April 9 at Live

Oak Park. Winners receive prizes and gift certificates from local restaurants,

as well as formal recognition by the City Council and Parks & Recreation

Commission. For contest details and entry forms, visit www.templecity.us.

ENTRIES DUE MARCH 16, 5 P.M.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE DAY POSTER CONTEST

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PHOTO POLICY: Please be advised that all participants involved in any City of Temple City (“City”) programs or special events are subject to being photographed. Such photographs may be used by the City without an obligation to provide compensation to those photographed.

Youth & TeensFOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL (626) 285-2171.

SPRING CAMP & TEEN ZONEAPRIL 7–11 & 21–25, 7 A.M.–6 P.M.

GRADES K–5, $110/week

GRADES 6–9, $85/week

Don’t waste away the sunshine this spring break—spend it at Live Oak Park! Keep minds and bodies active with interesting games, activities and crafts, each set to a World Cup theme for the upcoming FIFA Championship in Brazil. Fee also includes a field trip to Six Flags Magic Mountain. Optional mini trips are also available for Teen Zone; additional fees apply. Register now at Live Oak Park Annex.

STARS CLUB & TEEN ZONE AFTERSCHOOL PROGRAMSMONDAY–FRIDAY, 2:30–6 P.M.

Afterschool STARS Club and Teen Zone programs resume after spring break, continuing through June 20. Enroll by calling (626) 285-2171, ext. 2360. One-time $10 nonrefundable administrative fee applies.

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STARS CLUB/$125/mo.Various school sites Grades K-5

TEEN ZONE/$150/yr.Live Oak Park AnnexGrades 6-9

DAYCARE/$25/dayLive Oak Park AnnexAvailable on no-school days

FRIDAY, APRIL 256–9 P.M.

LIVE OAK PARK


LIVE OAK PARK


LIVE OAK PARK

TC’s most talked about teen event is at it again with an evening of action entertainment and our exciting nighttime prize hunt!

ticketing

PRESALE $10 (APRIL 7–24 AT LIVE OAK PARK ANNEX)

AT THE DOOR $15

Text your bestie... Spring Fling is baaack!

Obstacle Courses

Rock Climbing Wall

Video Games Truck

Dance Floor

Live DJ

Gift Cards

Gift Certificates

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Senior ProgramsFOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL (626) 579-0461.

AARP DRIVER SAFETY

MAY 12–13, 8:30 A.M.–12 P.M., $15-$20

The AARP Driver Safety Program is the largest and most respected refresher course. This session features a new curriculum to help those 55 years and older tune up their driving skills and adjust to normal age-related physical changes. Classes are offered at Live Oak Park Community Center. $15 for AARP members, $20 for non-members. Fee is payable by check at the first day of class. Pre-registration is recommended.

LINKAGES PROGRAM FIRST & THIRD MONDAY OF THE MONTH, 10:30 A.M.–12 P.M.

Free case management services are offered to frail seniors (ages 60 and over) and adults with disabilities (ages 18 and older), affording them the ability and independence to remain safely at home and in the community. In addition to onsite services at Live Oak Park Community Center, services are also available by appointment. For more information, contact YWCA San Gabriel Valley at (626) 214-9465.

SENIOR LUNCH WEEKDAYS, 11 A.M., $2 DONATION

Seniors over 60 years of age are invited to Live Oak Park Community Center for a hot lunch, activities and socializing with friends and neighbors. Monthly menus are available at the Community Center and on the City’s website,

www.templecity.us. Hot tea and coffee are available for just 25 cents per cup—best price in town! Reservations required 24 hours in advance by calling (626) 579-0461. Space is limited.

MOTHER’S DAY (MAY 9)

Moms, grandmas, mother figures—we’re celebrating you and your nurturing care with a special lunch featuring musical entertainment and festive activities!

FATHER’S DAY (JUNE 13)

After the ladies, it’s time to thank the men. Join us for a funky tie contest in honor of the fun dads, grandpas and father figures around us. Winners receive great prizes!

SENIOR BINGO LAST THURSDAY OF THE MONTH, 1–3 P.M.

Studies show that bingo can enhance memory skills and improve concentration. Play free at Live Oak Park Community Center— it’s fun and all games are played for prizes!

SPRINGTIME BINGO APRIL 7, 1–3 P.M.

Spring is in the air! Celebrate the new season with our annual special edition BINGO. Win big with festive Easter baskets and bonus gift cards!

SENIOR LUAU JUN. 19, 4:30–7:30 P.M., $10

Aloha seniors, join us for an evening of entertainment and fun. Enjoy a delicious dinner including BBQ pork ribs, potato salad and more. Exciting Polynesian entertainment sets the mood, and guests are encouraged to go with the flow wearing their favorite Hawaiian dress or shirt. Participants must be 60 years or older. Pre-registration for the event is required. For more information, call (626) 579-0461.

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Senior Excursions The City offers one-day excursions to local and

nearby destinations. These day trips—which

show off the incredible diversity of attractions in

Southern California—range from tours and shows,

to dinners and shopping. Registration is taken on

a first-come, first-paid basis at the Live Oak Park

Community Center. For more information, call

(626) 579-0461.

STANLEY RANCH MUSEUM & OLD TOWNE ORANGE APRIL 18, 9:30 A.M.–4 P.M., $55

Tour the Stanley Ranch Museum, featuring the 1892-built Stanley house, as well as other turn-of-the-century buildings like Garden Grove’s first post office and fire station, barber shop, as well as Walt Disney’s first studio garage. Lunch is included at King’s Fish House. The tour concludes with antique shopping and time on your own in Old Towne Orange. Registration deadline: April 11.

MARILYN MONROE TOUR MAY 14, 8:30 A.M.–4:30 P.M., $65

Get the life story of Marilyn Monroe—the Hollywood star who captured the world’s imagination. The tour begins at the hospital where young Norma Jeane Mortenson was born, then passes the orphanage where she spent the 1930s, and Paramount Pictures where young Marilyn dreamt of stardom. The last stop on the journey is the Westwood Memorial Cemetery, where Marilyn now rests. Vegas-style buffet in Hollywood is included. Registration deadline: April 30.

HARBOR BREEZE CRUISE & MOROCCAN DINNER EXPERIENCEMAY 30, 2:30–8:30 P.M., $72

Enjoy a 45-minute cruise on a double-deck yacht as you explore Long Beach’s Coastline. Learn the history of the harbor and enjoy sights of the beautiful Long Beach skyline, sea lions playing in the harbor and the world-famous Queen Mary. After, enjoy a five-course Moroccan dinner at the Babouch Moroccan restaurant for traditional dishes, belly dancers and more. Registration deadline: May 16.

GASLAMP FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL (SAN DIEGO)JUNE 8, 9 A.M.–7 P.M., $49

“Taste of Gaslamp” is downtown San Diego’s favorite gastronomic adventure and urban food safari! Your ticket is your passport to the Gaslamp Quarter for a sampling of specialties from more than 30 destinations. Registration deadline: May 30.

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HARBOR BREEZE CRUISE & MOROCCAN DINNER EXPERIENCE, MAY 30

NOTE: Trips may be canceled or changed at the City’s discretion. Refunds will be offered only if a replacement is found and notification of cancellation is provided at least ten days in advance of the trip.

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SECOND ANNUAL

Food Truck Festival

SATURDAY, MAY 24

LIVE OAK PARK11:30 A.M.–3:30 P.M.

Chow down on

delicious eats*

GRILLED CHEESE TRUCK

GREAT BALLS OF FIRE

TOKYO DOGGIE STYLE

SLAMMIN’ SLIDERS

WAFL TRUCK

PARADISE COOKIES

…and many more!

Make it a

Memorial Day

weekend your

taste buds

won,t forget!


*LINEUP SUBJECT TO CHANGE.

STREET SWEEPING

Why does the current street sweeping

program need to be changed?

Streets are currently swept every other week, with no restrictions imposed on vehicular parking. This biweekly service level is not providing the desired results. Ultimately, debris—including toxic chemicals from automobiles and litter—can get washed into the City’s storm drains, thereby coming into conflict with the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES), under the Federal Clean Water Act. When standing water is allowed to accumulate between sweepings, it breeds mosquitos and bacteria that can endanger pets and children. Furthermore, when street-sweeping vehicles are forced to drive around cars parked on the street, large amounts of debris are missed, and those unkempt streets create an unflattering image of Temple City. The new street sweeping program will remove an additional 600 tons of debris from Temple City streets every year!

Temple City Connect addresses questions from residents on a

wide variety of City activities, projects and policies, keeping

you connected, engaged and educated. In this issue, we respond

to inquiries related to Temple City’s street sweeping, which

increases to a weekly program beginning July 1.

temple city

ask city hall

KEEP AN EYE OUT As street sweeping

signs are posted, also follow the City’s

Facebook and Twitter pages for reminders

leading up to the July 1 effective date.

That sounds expensive. Will the additional

cost be passed on to residents?

It is expensive—and when the program was first proposed to go into effect in September 2013, the cost of the enhanced service was originally intended to be passed on to residents. But after thorough deliberation, City leaders decided that residents should not have to bear the cost of the program’s expansion. As part of budget discussions, it is a priority to fund the service enhancement using Gas Tax revenues, separate from the General Fund and essential City services. It is important to also note that the alternative of not sweeping every week would be far more costly, since the federal government can impose fines on the City for potentially conflicting with federal Clean Water Act regulations.

When does the weekly sweeping begin,

and how will be it regulated?

The new weekly service will officially begin on July 1, 2014, but new “No Parking” signs began going up in February. Parking restrictions will affect one side of the street at a time, for five-hour periods, from 6–11 a.m. or 10 a.m.–3 p.m. During the transitional period—after the installation of the signs but before the official commencement date of July 1—warning citations will be issued to those violating the parking restrictions. These citations carry no financial penalty, but are designed to familiarize people into the habit of complying with the new parking restrictions before the program actually begins. After July 1, real citations—which carry a minimum $55 fine—will be issued to all violators.

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temple city

people

If you’ve passed the corner of Temple City Boulevard and Longden Avenue during school hour traffic, chances are you’ve seen one of Temple City’s greatest superheroes. At the crack of dawn, 72-year-old German Gonzalez wakes up, slips on his fluorescent vest and is off to protect local schoolchildren. While his friendly nature endears him to the many kids he’s guided, any motorist attempting to speed through Gonzalez’s intersection knows that this two-time Crossing Guard of the Year is a force with which to reckon. With a whistle, stop sign and hand signals, Gonzalez is armed and not afraid to take on any reckless driver in the name of pedestrian safety.

Tell us about yourself.

I’ve lived in Temple City for 34 years. I’m originally from Guatemala. I had a poor upbringing and started work shortly after the third grade. When I came to the States in the ’70s, I found work in the glass industry—first for Glass Container Corporation and after, Ball Foster Corporation. I was a packer in the factory and my job was packaging carton boxes and glass bottles for shipment. I did that for 40 years before retiring. How did you become a crossing guard?

In 2009 after I retired, I got bored at home. I had always loved to work, so started looking for something to do in the community. When I saw the job opening for crossing guard, I knew it was something I could do. I’m proud that my job is working with kids

to keep them safe. I also like the hours and living nearby because I can

come home for lunch.

What has been the most

rewarding experience

on the job?

I won Crossing Guard of the Year in 2010 and 2011 from my employer. Our

supervisor surveys teachers and other supervisors to

select candidates. I got a certificate from the City, and

also three other ones from my company. I enjoy my

job and the kids enjoy

working with me too. I often receive gifts from the students and parents thanking me for keeping them safe. It’s very nice. Have you seen children grow up?

Yeah, that’s my favorite part of being a crossing guard. I’ll see kids getting taller and bigger as they go from preschool to Longden Elementary, up to Temple City High. I tell them all the time to study and stay in school.

How much longer do you plan to be

a crossing guard?

I’ve been at this intersection for five years. I’ll finish up this year and I’m still considering whether to sign on again next year. I’m in my seventies so I’m not sure. If I stopped, I would miss the kids the most. Any advice for pedestrians or drivers?

For drivers, I would say leave your home, work or school five minutes ahead of time and stay off your cell phones. I’ve seen a lot of people driving with phones which can lead to unnecessary accidents. The high school kids tend to get a little reckless not paying as close attention when they’re driving— so it’s a matter of keeping them in line. For pedestrians walking, take your time and always keep your eyes open to see what’s around you.

German Gonzalez

TWO-TIME CROSSING GUARD OF THE YEAR

BY AMBER LEE

TRANSLATED BY SAHIDA GONZALEZ

SEE GERMAN IN ACTION at the Temple

City Boulevard/Longden Avenue

intersection before and after school hours.

38


Emergencies

911Request immediate sheriff, fire department or ambulance assistance to protect life or property.

Animals

285-7187Call to report a lost pet and stray or dead animals; get or renew a license.

BuildingandDevelopment

285-2171,ext.2301Obtain permits and inspections for repairing, remodeling or adding onto your home or business.

BusinessAssistance

285-2171,ext.2303Find out how to start or expand a business, and how to do business with the City.

CommunityInvolvement

285-2171,ext.2317Learn of upcoming public meetings, volunteer opportunities and how to serve on a City commission.

CommunityPreservation

285-2171Improve your neighborhood— report property maintenance issues, illegal construction and garage conversions.

Dial-A-Ride(FirstTransit)Request shared transit service for seniors and the disabled.

285-2171,ext.2361Establish membership; general inquiries

286-2456Schedule service

ElectionsandVoting

285-2171,ext.2317Register to vote, get information on election dates and find out how to run for City public office.

EmergencyPreparedness

285-2171,ext.2333Receive training to handle an emergency situation or local disaster.

Employment

285-2171,ext.2330Apply for a City job and learn of other government employment opportunities.

Environment

285-2171,ext.2333Learn about water, recycling and energy conservation programs.

FacilityRentals

285-2171,ext.2361Reserve one of our facilities for sports team practices, birthday parties and private events.

HotlinesHelp keep Temple City looking great by reporting:

(800)252-4613Abandoned Shopping Carts

(800)794-7384Graffiti Removal

285-5240Illegal Construction (after hours)

Housing

285-2171,ext.2303Get information on rehabilitation programs, homeownership opportunities and landlord/tenant rights.

MayorandCityCouncilLet them know what you think!

285-2171,ext.2322Schedule a meeting

285-2189Leave a suggestion, comment or complaint

Parking

285-2171,ext.2333Ask about residential parking permits and parking tickets; report nuisance vehicles on public streets.

PermitsandLicenses

285-2171,ext.2300Find out what is required to improve your property, operate a business and conduct special events.

PlanningandZoning

285-2171,ext.2303See what you can do with your property and what developments are planned in your neighborhood.

PotholePatrol

285-2171,ext.2333Report a pothole for repair within three working days.

PublicSafety(TempleSheriff’sStation)

285-7171Form a Neighborhood Watch group, request increased patrolling and obtain police reports.

PublicRecords

285-2171,ext.2317Review or request copies of City records and documents.

RecreationandParks

285-2171,ext.2361Participate in our many recreational and cultural activities; report maintenance needs at City parks.

Seniors

579-0461Stay active and healthy with our lunch program, recreational classes and referrals to wellness providers.

StreetsandSidewalks

285-2171,ext.2333Request street or sidewalk maintenance; report broken street lights, traffic signals and signs.

TrashandStreetSweeping(AthensServices)

336-3636Report service problems or make a special service request; get help with billing.

TreeandMedianMaintenance

285-2171,ext.2361Get a street tree; report maintenance issues on street trees and medians.

Youth

285-2171,ext.2360Learn about after school programs, day camps, sports leagues and recreational activities.

CityServices ALL TELEPHONE NUMBERS ARE 626 AREA CODE UNLESS DESIGNATED.

SCHOOLDISTRICTS

ArcadiaUnified

821-8300

ElMonteCity

453-3700

RosemeadUnified

312-2900

TempleCityUnified

548-5000

MASSTRANSIT

FoothillTransitDistrict

(800)743-3463

MetroTransportationAuthority

(323)466-3876

RESOURCES

ChamberofCommerce

286-3101

TempleCityLibrary

285-2136

UTILITIES

AT&T

(800)288-2020

CharterCommunications

(866)499-8080

SouthernCaliforniaEdison

(800)655-4555

TheGasCompany

(800)427-2200

WATERDISTRICTS

CaliforniaAmericanWaterCompany

(888)422-5269

EastPasadenaWaterCompany

793-6189

GoldenStateWaterCompany

(800)999-4033

SanGabrielCountyWaterDistrict

287-0341

SunnyslopeWaterCompany

287-5238

temple city

city services

QUICKCONTACTS

CAN’TFINDWHATYOUNEED?We’ll

find it for you! Just call (626) 285-2171.

GermanGonzalez

Temple City Connect

39


EVERY SUNDAY 8:30 A.M.–1 P.M. CITY HALL PARKING LOT9701 LAS TUNAS DR.

Temple City

FARMER'smarket

Crisp fruits and veggies • Homemade honey • Baked goods Delectable desserts • Gourmet teas • Green plants • Fresh cut flowers

City of Temple City

9701 Las Tunas Dr.

Temple City, CA 91780

Presorted StandardU.S. Postage

PAID San Gabriel, CA

Permit No. 10016

ECRWSS

POSTAL CUSTOMERTEMPLE CITY, CA 91780

temple city connect spring 2014

Documents

community valuesspring

community spirit

eventstemple city

community investment

city hall new street

local street conditions

vibrant downtown

local infrastructure