Temple City Voice

Temple City High School (TCHS) had its first BTSA meeting last week.

The BTSA, also known as Beginning Teacher Support and Assessment, is a two-year program for teachers with preliminary teaching credentials.

Tina Cunningham, director of the BTSA consortium for the Temple City Unified School District (TCUSD), reviews the credentials of candidates and contacts the chosen teachers. A “mentor”, or a teacher already employed in the particular department of school, is matched with the newly selected teacher. The partners attend various meetings once a week, sometimes together and sometimes alone to more specific role-oriented meets.

Teachers already employed in the respective schools would ease the newcomer’s assimilation while relaying basic teaching skills to them.

In the past, teachers had to receive instruction on education from schools after their preliminary programs. In 2002, TCUSD implemented the BTSA program.

Teachers are generally positive about this program. Ryan Hoague, who teaches AP English Literature and Composition and Creative Style at TCHS, believes that a compatible match can be of tremendous benefit to the mentee teacher.

“Teaching is a very isolating activity,” he says. “It has generally not been collaborative and I see [BTSA] as an effort to change that. It definitely helps us get away from the ‘sink or swim’ method that teachers before BTSA have had to go through.

The only part of BTSA that seemed to dissatisfy teachers was the amount of time required of the mentors.

Mihee Kim, who instructs AP Studio Art, Honors Painting and Art 1, commented, “It is definitely a great learning opportunity for both mentor and mentee; however, there is so much time dedicated to it that, at times, you end up not being able to dedicate as much time to your own students.”

“I’d like to see fewer paperwork tasks and more classroom observation and interaction,” suggests Hoague.

The stipend of a mentoring teacher is about $1500-compared to the starting salary of a coach, which is around $4000-is quite low when one considers the amount of dedication mentoring requires.

When asked how this affects mentor morale, Hoague responds, “Many teachers see the value in doing extra things…they want to help. Money isn’t the prime motivating factor.”

CORRECTION:  The stipend amount for being a part of the BTSA program is $1500, not $15,000, and for being a coach is $4000, not $40,000.

This article was written by Sophia Chang. It was published in the Temple City Voice on September 25, 2009.

The local School Board voted Wednesday evening to extend Temple City Unified School District (TCUSD) Superintendent Chelsea Kang-Smith’s employment contract.

Kang-Smith became the District superintendent on August 1, 2008. Her contract was expected to mature in three years, but the School Board lengthened it to 2012.

Soon after taking over, the TCUSD faced its biggest challenge in years: budget cuts. The School Board cut the 2008-2009 budget and handed out pink slips to teachers, clerks and custodial staff.

Despite the dire circumstances, School Boardmembers attested to the strong leadership Kang-Smith has shown during her first year.

School Board Vice-President Rachel LaSota, who previously voted against hiring Kang-Smith, stated it was a wise decision to stay with one leader, especially given the “downhill ride of the state.”

Matt Smith, Board Clerk and up for re-election in November, added that Kang-Smith “passed with fine colors.” He supported an extension of the superintendent’s contract.

While School Boardmembers supported the move, teachers from several of the District’s elementary schools did not. Teachers from Longden, La Rosa and Emperor elementary schools spoke up against extending Kang-Smith’s tenure an additional year. Some asked the School Board to wait a year before deciding to do so.

Teachers have been unhappy about the actions the School Board has taken the previous year. Some complained about having to buy their own supplies when there was a 23 percent reserve in funds. Others were furious about the pink slips and layoffs.

Chelsea Kang-Smith is the seventh and first Asian superintendent of the TCUSD.

She was previously an area superintendent of the San Diego Unified School District, overseeing 27 schools. Kang-Smith has been a principal, assistant principal, a high school and middle school teacher, and a substitute teacher.

If a future School Board decides not to renew her contract, her last day will be June 30, 2012.

This article was written by Chris Du. It was published in the Temple City Voice on September 25, 2009.

A moratorium on medical marijuana dispensaries and the distribution of the substance within Temple City has been extended.

The City Council unanimously supported prolonging the ban for an additional 10 months and 15 days at its meeting on Tuesday, June 2, 2009.

Marina Drabkin, an independent medical consultant, again testified in opposition to continuing the current prohibition. Drabkin’s case for a medical marijuana dispensary in Temple City had prompted the City Council to enact the urgency ordinance in April.

Enacted on April 21, urgency ordinance 09-926U prevents the establishing or operating of a marijuana dispensary in Temple City. After hearing from Drabkin, councilman Tom Chavez stated his support for the ordinance, noting there were still many questions surrounding the business.

Councilman Fernando Vizcarra agreed. He added that additional legal advice was needed on the issue.

Earlier, the Planning Commission had recommended creating an ordinance prohibiting the business. The emergency ordinance also had the backing of Community Development Manager Joseph Lambert.

Public Safety Officer Brian Ariizumi said at the April 21 council meeting that cities with medical marijuana dispensaries did experience an increase in crime. He cited the cities of West Hollywood and Walnut as examples.

However, medical marijuana could also bring desperately needed tax revenues to Temple City, claimed Drabkin on April 21. Drabkin pointed to the city of Santa Monica. Her attorney,  Anthony Curicle, who appeared at the April council meeting, was not present on June 2. The moratorium will remain on the city’s law books, at least until April 2010.

Also on Tuesday night, the City Council directed staff to draft an ordinance banning smoking from city parks.

This article was written by Randy Shun. It was published in the Temple City Voice today.

The state of California imposed statewide budget cuts amassing to $813 million that would affect the higher education system, namely the University of California (UC) campuses.

These deficits could spell a harsh reality in the long term, as it reduces educational opportunities for lower earning families. More importantly, it would hamper President Barack Obama’s goal of having the United States be the world’s leader in college education.

The resulting pay cuts and furloughs could possibly deter the “academic geniuses” of this nation from teaching at the public universities, impeding the fostering of technological and scientific innovators in California.

For the many of us who are applying to colleges soon and those already enrolled in the public schooling system, the UC option is important – larger student populations, appealing locations, a bigger atmosphere.

There are other avenues of which the state can earn more money namely by enforcing illegal immigrant benefits, imposing severance taxes on the oil companies, and closing the numerous tax loopholes prevalent in California.

In a society thriving for competition and self-improvement, why are cuts being made to diminish the quality of education for the future societal contributors of this nation?

There are many doubts to the public system, especially with the new budget plans – will the individual needs of each student be addressed? Will the books and materials be up-to-par with the ever dynamic nature of advancement and changed?

The reduced spending in the UC school system directly involves, among other things, reduced admissions, larger class sizes, fewer class options, higher tuitions, and a denser teacher to student ratio.

When all is said and done, a looming question remains – How will the future of this nation be affected?

This opinion was written by Leslie Wu. The views of this author do not represent the views of the Temple City Voice or its staff. It was published on September 18, 2009.

In a venture to readily secure state-mandated low income housing, the city of Temple City plans to work with Habit for Humanity in future construction projects.

“Many local cities were involved with Habit for Humanity housing requirements,” say councilmember Cynthia Sternquist. “We should look outside the box to meet low-cost alternatives.”

Sternquist has arranged to meet with the Glendale chapter. She also invited Community Development Manager Joseph Lambert to attend.

The meeting consists of a three-hour orientation that includes a video presentation, question and answer session and a van tour of ongoing projects.

Other councilmembers were receptive of the idea.

Councilman Tom Chavez supported Sternquist’s visit, citing his own experience with Habitat for Humanity in New Orleans. But added, “details need to be worked out-who, what, how.”

Vincent Yu, Mayor Pro Tempore, reaffirmed Chavez’s statements. He also recounted designing Habitat for Humanity homes as an architect.

Planning Commissioner Patrick Horton also praised the City Council for its willingness to interact with the philanthropic organization. “We are pursuing our 50th anniversary with a commitment to affordable housing,” he says. Horton further suggested enlisting the aid of local Boy Scouts or District students to assist with construction.

Habit for Humanity uses volunteer workers to construct low-cost and effective housing, often cheap, interest-free mortgages. The organization also promotes alternative energy, youth involvement and recycling with its activities.

This article was written by Randy Shun. It was published in the Temple City Voice on September 18, 2009.

Capra will not be charged in Piazza bribery case

Temple City councilman David Capra has resigned.

“Although I feel I have diligently and effectively represented the people of Temple City, it is with great regret that I am informing you of my immediate resignation from the City Council,” Capra wrote in a statement to the City Clerk.

Capra was first elected to the City Council in March 2003. Four years later, Temple City voters re-elected Capra to a second four-year term. His term would have expired in 2011.

According to Pasadena Star News reporter Alfred Lee, councilman Capra had plead guilty on June 2, 2009, for not reporting a campaign contribution of $1000 or more during the 2007 City Council election.

In exchange for admitting guilt, Capra was placed on probation for 36 months, must resign from office, agree not to run for four years and pay a $150 fine. Prosecutors also promised not to file any charges against him in relation to the Piazza bribery case.

Since 2008, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office has been investigating Capra, councilwoman Judy Wong, former councilwoman Cathé Wilson and former city council and state assembly candidate Scott Carwile.

The four had been accused by Piazza at Temple City developer Randy Wang of bribery.

The Piazza developer claims he gave Capra, Carwile and Wong $13,000 in cash during the March 2007 city council elections. He further alleges Wilson had demanded one of the 52 proposed one-bedroom condominiums and $48,000 in cash.

All four have publicly denied the allegations.

Piazza developer has proposed changes thrice since winning approval in 2006

The $75 million project, formerly known as the “Temple City Galleria” and “Piazza Las Tunas,” once promised 52 one-bedroom condominiums and a large retail center. The development plans also included a proposed banquet facility.

Developer Wang secured approval of his mixed-use development in May 2006 despite fierce opposition from a group of neighborhood activists, known as Temple City Neighborhood Alliance (TCNA), and residents within the community.

After the City Council approved the project, a referendum drive supported by TCNA was launched. More than 1900 signatures were gathered. But the push to place the development on the ballot failed on the basis of a technicality.

From 2006 to the present, the Piazza developer has held two ground breakings and has worked with three different construction management firms. Wang has proposed changes thrice, in 2007, 2008 and most recently April 2009.

Wang has until August 23, 2009 to complete his development according to the developer’s agreement signed by Wang and the city of Temple City.

Last year, the city of Temple City filed a lawsuit against Wang, anticipating a breach in the Piazza development contact. A few months later, Wang countersued Temple City, accusing city officials of bribery.

If city officials are found to be guilty of Wang’s allegations, the contract signed between the developer and the city would be void. However, assuming the contract remains valid, Temple City may purchase the 3.7 acre site for $5 million should Wang fail to construct the Piazza by August.

On May 25, the Temple City Voice sent an e-mail to Piazza spokesman Enrique Medina. The request for more information regarding the development was unanswered.

A court-mandated settlement conference will be held in July. Councilmembers Fernando Vizcarra and Vincent Yu will represent Temple City at the meeting.

According to city staff, approximately $171,000 in legal fees have been spent in litigation with the Piazza developer, as of April 30. Temple City is being represented by Joe Buchman of Burke, Williams and Sorensen, LLP.

Online community react, speculate on next councilperson

A growing chorus of online commentators has expressed its disapproval of city officials’ alleged involvement with the Piazza developer.

Since the Star News first reported the story, more than a hundred comments have been made on the Internet. Besides condemning Capra, Carwile, Wilson and Wong, posters are wondering who the current City Council will choose to replace Capra.

After hearing from interim city attorney Eric Vail, who began his job on June 1, the City Council decided to hold a special council meeting on June 11 to appoint a new councilmember. Each councilperson can nominate up to two people.

Candidates must either submit a written statement or provide materials to the City Council and will have the chance to speak before the legislative body.

Likely candidates will probably be past and current city commissioners and former councilmembers.

This article was written by Matthew Wong. It was published in the Temple City Voice on September 18, 2009.

In our current period of economic downfall, everybody is cutting back on expenses at the cost of their entertainment. However, having fun while spending less is completely possible.

Youtube, Hulu, and other online streaming sites offer popular shows- free of charge. These broadcasters contain genres from comedies to cartoons, catering to every age.

Daily programming often replays feature episodes online. Occasionally, movies are streamed as well. Statistics show families are spending less time outside than in, preferring household activities to bank-breaking alternatives.

Cooking, gardening, and reading provide knowledge as well as fun; indoor games also present invaluable family time.

Also, Temple City sponsors numerous civic activities throughout the year. Parades, shows, carnivals, and feature events remain cheap and exciting for citizens. Concerts in the Park, magic shows in the library, and Little League events at Live Oak Park are also provided.

Lastly, you can help out in your community! Taking part in these events allows you to interact with and get to know other members of your very own community.

A popular activity is painting and crafting floats for the annual Rose Parade.

A common misconception is that community service is drab and boring. On the contrary, most community services are actually much more interesting than you would have ever assumed them to be.

It’s not that hard to enjoy life in an economic turmoil. Actually, with proper planning and thinking, it’s actually quite easy to find something to do.

Of course, you can spend money but the most important thing is to save. There’s no such thing as a free lunch in this world, but you can always save a bit of money if you think smart.

This article was written by Jason Alvin Wu. It was published in the Temple City Voice on September 11, 2009.

In a joint effort to further involve the community in the November School Board elections, the Temple City Voice and the Temple City High School Junior State of America (JSA) chapter will co-host a candidates’ forum.

Citizens, prospective voters and students will have a chance to pose questions at the candidates about the most prominent issues facing the Temple City Unified School District (TCUSD).

The forum will be divided into two blocks. The first half will be a general question session, while the second will be a period where residents can ask questions and express concerns.

Incumbents Matt Smith and Joe Walker are both seeking another four-year term. Walker, a crime analyst and former school board president, was first elected in 2005. Smith is a current board clerk and former school board vice-president.

Challenger Kenneth Knollenberg is the third candidate in the race. Knollenberg, a concerned citizen who attends board meetings regularly, has expressed desire to change the status quos. In a recent interview with the Temple City Voice, he stated the local School Board lacked “a clear vision for the school system.”

The goal of the forum, says JSA co-president Christine Keung is “to provide first-hand information on the people we’re voting for.” This connection is necessary, she states, as half-baked votes could lead to policy dissatisfaction.

“This is a perfect opportunity for students and residents to voice what they think are important,” adds Temple City Voice Editor-in-Chief Sophia Chang.

The 2009 School Board candidates’ forum will take place on October 24, 2009 at Temple City High School in Room 601 from 7 to 9 p.m.

This article was written by Taylor Evanko. It was published in the Temple City Voice on September 11, 2009.

On Wednesday, September 2, the band known as the Answer capped off the eleven-week “Concerts in the Parks” at Temple City Park bringing the 2009 summer concert series to an end.

During the finale, the crowd cheered as the band honored veterans and soldiers overseas. Free stuff was thrown out to the audience. And the stands, which included the Boy Scouts and Temple City schools, set up one last time to sell snow cones, drinks, popcorn and T-shirts.

The Concerts in the Park, one of Temple City’s most popular traditions, began over two decades ago in the parking lot of Temple City Park.

In the past, the San Gabriel Band played, free of charge to the city. Now, with over ten bands playing each week at the Gazebo, the city spends $20,000 annually to fund the summer concerts.

According to Cathy Burroughs, Parks and Recreation director, crowds of up to 2000 people gathered Wednesday nights.

Burroughs lauded the summer concert series, stating it “ended on a high note” in the City Manager’s Weekly Report on September 3. When asked what will happen in the future for the concerts, she responded, “nothing really, except the bands.”

This article was written by Chris Du. It was published in the Temple City Voice on September 11, 2009.

A vacancy on the Temple City Parks and Recreation commission was filled on Tuesday, June 2, 2009 when the City Council appointed resident Andrea Olivas.

Olivas, also the Vice-Chairman of the Temple City Chamber of Commerce, succeeds former Parks and Recreation commissioner Cynthia Sternquist. Sternquist left the commission to serve on another city commission, the Planning Commission.

The City Council decided to hold a special meeting prior to their regular meeting on Tuesday evening. Councilmembers conducted interviews with two candidates: Dina Piraino and Pamela Vigil.

Olivas was appointed by a 4-0 margin.

Councilman David Capra had resigned earlier this morning. He was not present at the meeting.

A total of seven individuals, including Olivas, had applied for the vacant commissioner position.

Excluding Dina Piraino and Pamela Vigil, the others were John Qunitanilla, Robert Young and Peggy Miller. Qunitanilla, Young, Olivas and Miller were interviewed in May 2009.

In addition to her role as Vice-Chairman of the Temple City Chamber of Commerce, Olivas also works for the Temple City Tribune and has directed past Miss Temple City pageants.

After Olivas is sworn in on June 16, she will join current Parks and Recreation commissioners Dan Arrighi, Chris Goad, Pamela Yugar and Nanette Fish.

This article was written by Margaret Thi. It was published today in the Temple City Voice.