2 SPOTLIGHT ON MONTEBELLO – montebellochamber.org … · Attendees were served a succulent...

2 AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018SPOTLIGHT ON MONTEBELLO – montebellochamber.org

By Chairman Armando ArenasOn July 28, the Montebello Chamber celebrated its 106th

Installation Dinner and Shining Star Awards at the Quiet Cannon. The event was well-attended by many of our local officials, chamber members, special guests and past public servants. It was amazing to see how many members of our community support the chamber year in and year out.

The event featured wonderful entertainment by The Danc-ing Fire Entertainment and was highlighted by the installa-tion of the Board of Directors for the year 2018-2019 and recognition of our Ambassadors and Ambassador of the Year.

Finally, the evening closed with the Shining Star Awards that recognized outstanding citizens, educators, public servants and local businesses for their contributions to our community. Congratulations to all the winners. Thank you to all our sponsors and a special thank you to the Quiet Cannon for their fantastic service and beautiful facility. It was a fantastic event!

If you have been reading the Chairman’s Commentary the past year, you may be wondering why I am writing another. After all, my term ended at the installation din-ner. Well, I am proud to announce I will be serving as chairman of the board another year! I am looking forward to working with our staff, ambassadors and directors.

We are a diverse group of business professionals, merchants and concerned citizens working together to make the chamber the best it can be. I invite you to visit our chamber office. Our friendly staff will make you feel welcome and assist you with any information you may need for your business.

All of us at the Montebello Chamber of Commerce look forward to a very success-ful year and welcome your contributions. Enjoy your summer and hope to see you at the next chamber event. It’s sure to be a great one!

CHAIRMAN’S COMMENTARY

Chairman of the Board . . Armando Arenas, Century 21 George Michael RealtyVice Chair . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Anthony Fabelo, Treasurer . . . . . . . John Pringle, Esq., Secretary . . . Barbara Risher Welch,

Ilma V. Avila . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Susan Ayala . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Stepan Boyajian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Montebello Tire Pros Denise Campos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Darrell H. Heacock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Greg Millsap . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jay Nomura . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M’s FlowersGeorge B. Pacheco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Veronica Ramirez . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Michele L. Robinson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Ani Minasian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Executive DirectorJacqueline Derimow . . . . . . . . . . . Director, Events and CommunicationsTaline Sassounian . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Administrative Assistant

109 North 19th Street, Montebello, CA 90640

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Since last year, St. John’s Lutheran Preschool has been thoroughly remodeling its 70-year old school building into a state-of-the art facility complete with skylights, open-plan classrooms, new playground and sleek modern design and furnishings. The extensive refurbishment has been funded by generous donations from the community and is in its final stages of completion.

The school’s playground is being planted with shady trees to create a “forest” feel for the schoolchildren and donors are being sought to cover the costs of the plantings. A plaque will accompany each tree engraved with the sponsors’ names or a memo-rial message for those honoring a loved one. For more information on how you can contribute, please contact Richard Fulmer at 562-842-4440.

3AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 2018 SPOTLIGHT ON MONTEBELLO – montebellochamber.org


425 N. 18th St.Montebello, CA 90640 (323) 722-9885

St. John’s Lutheran Preschool Now Enrolling. New State-of-the-Art Preschool Opening End of August. Children Develop and hone Cognitive Skills; Developmental Christian Based Curriculum; Language Arts and Math Concepts; Art Skills; Alphabet and Phonic Awareness; Kindergarten Readiness; Full and Part Time Sessions Available; Extended Day Care (6:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.); Snacks Provided.

501 W. Whittier Blvd.Montebello, CA 90640 (323) 726-9511www.hpbeautypros.com

Get ready to go “Back to School” with these special promotions!

Offer #1: Take 20% off all “Signature Services.

Offer #2: Take 50% off Brazilian Blowout (Regular price $350; Pay Only $175!).

Offer #3: Take 15% off all retail products, including Descartes Cosmetics.

534 N. Montebello Blvd.Montebello, CA 90640 (323) 728-2728www.heavenlychoice.com

Boost your school spirit with face painting in your school’s colors for athletes, cheerleaders, marching bands, drill teams and fans before games, parades and pep rallies! Use face painting as a way to raise funds for equipment, supplies and travel. Parent support groups, student associations and booster clubs are invited to hone their face painting skills at Heavenly Choice’s free classes on Friday, August 10 at 5 pm and on Saturday, August 11 at 12 pm. Call to reserve your spot.

540 N. Montebello Blvd., Ste. EMontebello, CA 90640 (818) 280-8083www.MyCarBroker.com

Licensed and bonded broker. Will find any make and model vehicle of your choice without the hassle and haggle of a dealership. Free delivery straight to your home or work. Will buy cars or take trade-ins. Save time and money-let MyCarBroker find you the best deal on your next car!

2559 W. Via CampoMontebello, CA 90640(424)285-0059www.officedepot.com

Your one-stop source for office supplies, copy and print, technology, in-home services, computer repair, shredding services, business cards, data transfer, 24 hour computer monitoring, installation for smart devices and all your “Back to School“supplies. Stop in to the store for weekly deals and “Free” computer diagnostics. Please reach out to your Business Pro, Marsha Lyons, to grow your business: (424)285-0059.5% off your purchase for Back to School through Sept. 30, 2018.

415 W. Beverly Blvd. Suite BMontebello, CA 90640 (562) 478-6832www.drrayortho.com

At Ray Orthodontics, patients are treated like family. Fun, clean and caring atmosphere. All insurances accepted, free retainers for life, free exam and x-rays, evening and weekend appointments available, as well as interest-free financing options. Check out their reviews on Yelp to see what their patients have to say!

Back to School It’s that time again, and local businesses have everything you need to start the school year right!

Building on the success and popularity of the multi-chamber networking breakfasts, on May 30, Montebello Chamber of Commerce partnered with Bell Gardens and Pico Rivera chambers to host a networking luncheon branded as Networking @ Noon at Hye Cuisine in Montebello.

Attendees were served a succulent family-style lunch starting with a cornucopia of appetizers and finishing with various kabobs, rice and salad. The noontime event featured a presentation by Shannon Horton of Digital Faces Marketing on ways to re-target your Facebook ads to lower your advertising cost while effectively

converting your ads into closed sales. The room was electric with networking between the

three chambers and non-member guests who made up the mix of attendees, some of whom walked away with coveted raffle prizes such as a Starbucks glass container and gift card.

Networking at NoonMultichamber Event at Hye Cuisine Features Presentation on Effective Facebook Advertising


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Chamber member Office Depot held a luncheon mixer for members of the Montebello Chamber of Commerce and the Commerce Industrial Council Chamber of Com-merce on May 24. The event was held in the spacious multipurpose room of the City of Commerce Office Depot, where guests were treated to a luncheon buffet, music by live DJ and a parting gift.

Attendees networked before, after and during lunch and met Montebello store manager Oscar Baca. Mon-tebello Chamber members were also able to collect their special discount cards to save up to 55% off purchases and printing at their local store.

Office Depot Business Pro Marsha Lyons and Com-merce store manager Anna Perez introduced Office Depot’s new BizBox suite of services for small busi-nesses that ranges from logo and website design to payroll services.

Office Depot is located 2559 W. Via Campo, Mon-tebello, CA 90640. For more information about new BizBox services, see www.MyBizBox.com. For any help with business needs, Montebello Chamber members may contact our Office Depot Business Pro, Marsha Lyons, at (424) 285-0059.


WELCOME, NEW MEMBERS

REVENUE RISINGMontebello, CA 90640(323) 518-8646www.revenuerisingnow.com

CONCEPTOS PRODUCTOS NATURALES6002 Whittier Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90022(626) 343-1028www.conceptosproductosnaturales.com

GENTEFY, [email protected]

MAJESTIC MARKETING(562) 328-7524www.majesticmarketingcreations.com

K-9 PROTECTIVE SERVICES1800 W. Beverly Blvd., Ste. 203

Montebello, CA 90640(800) 385-6144

www.K9PS365.com

UNIVERSO CLEANING, INC. 111 S. Garfield Ave. Suite #101 Montebello, CA 90640 (323) 574-0089 www.universocleaning.com

REALTY WORLD CALIFORNIA PROPERTIES Bob Archuleta 3124 W. Beverly Blvd., Montebello, CA 90640 (323) 728-4200 www.realtyworld.com

Saturday, June 23, marked the first Montebello Family Festival on Whittier Blvd. Merchants, restaurants, food vendors, artisans, musicians and civic groups, came together for a street fair and farmer’s market featuring live entertainment, a kids zone and free raffles.

It all started back in January when Nathan McCusker, philanthropist and president of Angry Horse Brewing, began pitching the idea of a family festival in Montebello to fellow businesses in the Downtown Montebello area. The idea was to create a family festival that gave an opportunity to local businesses to share what they do with the community and provide an environment for residents to enjoy and learn what their community has to offer.

Word spread and, by April, several local businesses and resi-dents came together to form the Montebello Family Festival com-mittee. The next two months were spent working with the City of Montebello to close Whittier Blvd from Montebello Blvd. to Fifth Street for an evening that would highlight downtown Montebello.

Aside from the few event ven-dors who provided the infra-structure of the event, it was the enthusiastic committee members

who spread the word and curated the vendors and local groups that created this cel-ebration of Montebello.

The evening kicked off at 5:00 and would not have been possible without the gener-ous contributions from businesses in our community. Angry Horse Brewing presented the event and it was sponsored by Hair Philosophy, AGNS Printing, Olson Homes, Beverly Hospital, NASA Services and Ilma V. Avila CPA.

The live entertainment on the main stage brought the festival to life and featured local bands Deebin, Old Man’s Money and The Stems Blues Band, which wrapped up the festi-val at 9:00. Through-out the course of the evening, over 5,000 residents of Montebel-lo came out to support more than 55 local businesses in an effort to bring Montebello together.

The committee includes members of the Montebello Chamber of Commerce, the Montebello Department of Parks and Recreation, My Montebello, Blvd Market, The Daily Brew, Keeping Culture Alive, KeKoa Veterans Foundation, Goldex Fine Jewelry, and the Montebello Traffic and Safety Commission with additional support from the Montebello Christian Fellowship and the Associated Student Body at Montebello High School.

With the success of the first Montebello Family Festival firmly established, the committee aims to bring back the festival on a monthly basis during the spring and summer months of 2019. If you are interested in joining the com-mittee or are a local business or group that wants to stay up-to-date on festival developments, please reach out by messaging the committee on Instagram or Facebook (@montebellofamilyfestival) or by sending an email to [email protected].


Having recently completed an extensive renova-tion of its ballroom, the Crowne Plaza set a lovely stage for the July installment of Networking Break-fast 3.0, jointly organized by the Montebello, Bell Gardens, Pico Rivera and Commerce Industrial Council chambers of commerce.

The entire management team from Crowne Plaza’s sales and catering departments was on hand to greet guests along with a breakfast buffet that included unique offerings such as their house-made hot choco-late with marshmallows, spinach and egg casserole and mini pastries.

A valuable presentation on financial health and stability by World Financial Group representatives Francine Ayala and Dominique Pacheco engaged attendees, who actively interacted with the speakers.

Raffle prizes included a free stay at the hotel and an hour-long service at Montebello’s own Synergy Med Spa. Fervent and productive networking was ongoing before and after the program, with many attendees lingering for more.

For information about Montebello Chamber of Commerce upcoming events, please visit our website at www.montebellochamber.org.

Business representatives from Montebello and its neighboring cities continue to flock each month to Net-working Breakfast 3.0--the multichamber networking

breakfasts jointly organized by the Montebello Chamber of Commerce and other chambers in the region. The early morning events are free for members of the par-

ticipating chambers, and attract an ever-changing mix of attendees for productive networking.

Chamber members from Montebello, Bell Gar-dens and Pico Rivera came together at the Quiet Cannon Conference Center in Montebello, for a spectacular Networking Breakfast on May 9. Repre-senting the City of Montebello were Councilwoman Vivian Romero; our new police chief, Brad Keller; our new fire chief, Fernando Pelaez; and new City Manager Andrew Pasmant.

Quiet Cannon’s Sean Shamin and Marbella Ortega presented the guests with an abundant breakfast buf-fet and elegantly-decorated tables in their beautiful Skyview Room overlooking the Montebello Golf Course.

Chamber member Ray Galan of RG Pacific gave a riveting and informative presentation on the benefits and features of Google advertising for your business. An intimate environment for networking yielded results for attendees who created new connections and furthered their business goals.

Quiet Cannon is located at 901 Via San Clemente, Montebello, CA 90640, (323) 832-1300, www.quietcannon.com.

On Wednesday, June 13, a total of five chambers of commerce—Montebello, Bell Gardens, Pico Rivera, Rosemead and Temple City—joined forces along with their members, staff and guests for early morning network-ing over an impressive breakfast buffet at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Rosemead.

The event was held in the hotel’s newly-appointed ballroom, and chamber members benefited from a presentation by Fellini Walker on employee costs and how to manage them. At the end of the event, DoubleTree staff treated attendees with a gift of one of their famous chocolate chip cookies.

DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Rosemead is lo-cated at 888 Montebello Blvd., Rosemead, CA 91770, (323)722-8800, losangelesrosemead.doubletree.com.


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George B. Pacheco and Gia L. Pacheco, Attorneys at Law

Family Law Business Real Estate Wills & Trusts Civil Personal Injury Workers’ Compensation Bankruptcy Landlord/Tenant Criminal/DUI

(323) 726-1082 Hablamos Español1453 West Beverly Boulevard www.gbp4law.comMontebello, California 90640 E-mail: [email protected]


Thank You to Our Sponsors!HEADLINER

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Steak N Stein 9545 E. Whittier Blvd., Pico Rivera, CA 90660 (562) 699-8823 / www.clearmansrestaurants.com Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @steaknstein

Isn’t it nice when you can count on a terrific meal when taking your family out? Consistently superior service and extraordinary dining awaits you at Steak N Stein. Isn’t it time to enjoy this quality experience again? Go for cool salads, huge entrees and old-world atmosphere that cools down a hot summer day.huge entrees and old world atmosphere that cools down a hot summmmerer dddayayayayayayyyy.

Chago Tortas Ahogadas123 Washington Blvd.Montebello, CA 90640(323) 888-0685www.chagoahogadas.com

Authentic taste from Guadalajara, Mexico—now in Los Angeles! Enjoy their delicious dipped sandwiches named “Torta Ahogada” made of pork, chicken, or beef tongue. Your first visit is on them! Bring this page to Chago Tortas restaurant and receive a FREE lunch special.

Goldex Fine Jewelry2445 W. Whittier Blvd., #201, Montebello (323) 726-7181www.goldexjewelry.com

The Ultimate Travel Jewelry: Elegant Swarovski Crystal Jewelry by Oliver Weber from Austria. Prices starting as low as $29.00. Mention this ad and receive $20.00 off any purchase of $75.00 or more. Offer good through September 30, 2018. Not validfor layaways orspecial orders.

HC Armenian Mediterranean Restaurant2110 W. Whittier Blvd., Montebello, CA 90640 (323) 278-0102www.HCArmenianRestaurant.com

The restaurant formerly known as Hye Cuisine has a new name but still has the same location and management, and most importantly: the same great food you’ve come to love! It’s worth staying in town just to enjoy their house-made pita chips, fresh fish brought in daily, vegetarian menu options and the tender, perfectly-seasoned kabobs!

STAY-CATION Who says you need to leave town to have fun? Here are some great ways to spend your stay-cation!

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Downtown Montebello continues to blossom with plans for a new food hall, BLVD MRKT, to be built on the corner of Whittier Blvd. and 6th Street. Food halls are the new trend sweeping the nation, bringing together a series of fast-casual restaurants under one roof with open community seating for dining and socializing.

When finished, BLVD MRKT will encompass 8,500 square feet made up of nine micro-kitchens for food and beverage vendors, indoor-outdoor seating, and one shared kitchen where new businesses will be fostered and developed. Now in its final stages of financing, BLVD MRKT will hopefully be open for business in early 2019.

BLVD MRKT is a public-private partnership between the City of Montebello, and a local organization called Gentefy. Prospective investors may obtain more informa-tion on how to get involved in this exciting new development by sending an email to [email protected].


by Anne Donofrio-HolterIn recognition of Monica Aros’ achievements in both academics and athlet-

ics, the Cantwell-Sacred Heart of Mary (CSHM) senior was awarded a $20,000 Foot Locker Foundation, Inc. scholarship. Selected from over 13,000 applicants, Aros is one of 20 students so recognized. The surprise presentation took place on campus when Foot Locker presented Aros with an oversized replica check.

“Each year, it seems we are inspired even more by the stories and caliber of the students who are selected as our Foot Locker Scholar Athletes,” said Richard A. Johnson, chairman and chief executive officer of Foot Locker, Inc. “We are extremely proud to recognize outstanding scholar athletes, such as Monica , and provide much-needed educational opportunities for today’s youth to empower them to succeed.”

Placed in foster care at the age of three, Aros, with a 3.9 GPA, has used both academics and athletics to stay focused and motivated.

“My most interesting classes are AP literature and honors U.S. history,” said Aros. “Both teachers definitely make class interactive and interesting. I can definitely say both teachers have prepared me for college.”

“We are extremely proud of Monica and all that she has accomplished at CSHM,” said guidance counselor Stefania Rossi-Reta. “She is an exceptional student and we know she will do great things in life.”

An AP scholar and California State Senate award recipient, while at CSHM, Aros has played volleyball, basketball, soccer, and softball. She has been named

best midfielder in soccer and received scholar-athlete awards in all sports she has participated in. Two of her favorite clubs are Girls in Athletics, where she has served as vice president and trea-surer, and Faith, Hope and Love.

While school and sports occupy the majority of her time, Aros does enjoy playing ukulele.

“I plan to obtain my bachelor’s degree in a behavioral science and enter law school,” she said. “Being part of the foster care system, and having faced some pretty devastating circumstances, I realize how many kids need positive examples. I want kids on the verge of giving up to see how I dealt with things and made it on my own from the ground up.”

Undecided as to what college she will attend, “My dream school is the Univer-sity of Hawai’i at Manoa,” Aros says, “but I will probably attend Arizona State or Northern Arizona University.”

“I am extremely grateful to Foot Locker for providing me the opportunity to attend a prestigious university with-out having to worry about expenses,” said Aros. “It’s a great feeling to be recognized for the things I’ve done and overcome the past couple of years.”

Ribbon Cutting at Ray OrthodonticsMembers, staff and Board members of the Montebello Chamber of Commerce gathered on June

26 to welcome new chamber member, Dr. Ray Arjang of Ray Orthodontics with a joyous ribbon cutting ceremony. Dr. Arjang, along with his family and staff, graciously greeted everyone with a catered lunch and gave them tours of his facility.

Mayor Pro-Tem Jack Hadjinian presented Dr. Arjang with a certificate on behalf of the City of Montebello, and thanked him for choosing Montebello for the site of his office. On behalf of the 32nd State Senate District, Thalia Campos also presented a certificate. Ani Minasian, executive director of the Montebello Chamber, officially welcomed Dr. Ray Arjang with a certificate on behalf of the Montebello Chamber and its entire membership.

Dr. Ray Arjang stated that he is committed to helping generations of families, and is looking forward to becoming more involved in our community and making his contribution. Ray Orthon-dontics is located at 415 W. Beverly Blvd., Suite B, Montebello, CA 90640, (323) 478-6832, drrayortho.com.


Loyal customers, family and friends flocked to the bar and dining room of La Costa Restaurant for one last meal and cocktail after the owners posted a good-bye message on Facebook on July 14th. The bar served up $4 cocktails during their All-Day Happy Hour as long-time patrons reminisced about the memories they had made during the restaurant’s 40-year run.

“This was my mother’s favorite place,” recalled Martha Alvarez of Guerra Gutierrez Mortuaries. “For years after she passed, I couldn’t bring myself to come back, but now whenever I come

here, I remember her. I’m very sad that they’re closing.”

La Costa was founded by Chef Arman-do Arenas and his wife Griselda in 1978. As its popularity grew, the restaurant was moved from its initial location in Boyle Heights to its current loca-tion at 854 N. Garfield Avenue in Montebello. After the Arenas’ children, Armando, Edgar and Maribel, took over ownership of the restaurant, it underwent a comprehensive remodel and expansion into a modern, elegant space. During the restaurant’s last

few days, the Arenas siblings were vis-ibly present in the dining room, thanking their loyal patrons and sharing memories.

The restaurant has been purchased by the owners of Kalaveras, a Mexican

eatery and cantina in Bellflower. The building will be undergoing renovations prior to reopening the new restaurant, the name and concept of which are yet unknown.


— Paid for by the City of Montebello —

City of Montebello News

by Anne Donofrio-HolterThe City’s 72 busses will be undergoing

security upgrades with the installation of an enhanced video surveillance system via a contract awarded to MyVar. Authorized City staff will be able to access digital streaming of real-time activity on each bus and, in case of emergency, the bus operator’s onboard panic button would alert dispatch and assigned City Transit Bureau Police that a problem had occurred.

According to Montebello Director of Transportation Tom Barrio, the new system’s primary goal is enhanced public and opera-tor safety. Bus operators can immediately request help, however, City Transit Bureau Police personnel can bring up security cam-eras in the bus and view the live video feed.

“After assessing the situation, the dis-patcher can alert the appropriate public safety agency and provide the location of the bus along with details of the incident allowing the agency to respond quickly with the proper resources,” said David Tsuen of Montebello’s IT Division.

This system improves the current ad-vance vehicle location system by providing real-time observation of the incident in progress and provides location of the vehicle at any given time, and includes retention of the video stream making retrieval fast and easy. Additional security features include access control, which limits operation of the bus to designated City staff only. There is improved safety at the rear door exterior exit area which detects passengers still in the unsafe zone and triggers an announcement, “Bus is now departing,” reminding passen-gers to stay at a safe distance.

“Replacing the current analog video recorders with these new smart digital recorders will further enhance the service, safety and security of passengers by provid-ing more relevant information in a timely manner,” added Barrio.

by Anne Donofrio-HolterThe latest Montebello Citizen’s Police Academy participants graduated July 5 following seven

weeks of classroom-style presentations and practical demonstrations into the day-to-day opera-tions of the Montebello Police Department.

The Academy covered a wide range of police-related topics including patrol operations, investigations, gangs, the K-9 program, dispatch, traffic enforcement, narcotics, evidence, fingerprinting, and special response team.Participants were given a tour of the station and jail and on the last night of class, an opportunity to fire at the Department’s shooting range.

“I am a firm believer that law enforcement and the community must work together to keep Montebello a safe place to live, work and visit,” said Police Chief Brad Keller, who spoke to the participants at graduation. “Programs such as this is one of many ways to build on that partner-ship. The Academy will give participants a better understanding of how our police department is organized, the services we provide, and how we serve the community.”

“We need to foster a better understanding between the police and those we have taken an oath to protect,” said Corporal Maria Chavez. “A Citizen’s Police Academy is a proven asset that can create a bridge between law enforcement and the community it serves.”

“I took the Academy because I wanted to know more about Montebello,” said Karen Young. “I like that the police department does a lot to support all of the people in Montebello.”

“I took the course because I wanted to learn how I can contribute to helping the police keep our city safe,” said another participant.

“We hope to empower our participants with facts that they can take back into the community to help correct stereotypes and dispel the negative myths about police officers,” added Chavez.

One participant expressed surprise at how many laws and general information police of-ficers have to know, and another at the reality versus myth of how calls for service are handled.

“I want to thank the men and women of the Montebello Police Department for taking the time to teach the Academy, especially Corporal Chavez and Corporal Scott Howard, the facilita-tors for this class,” said Keller. “I also want to thank the 20 community members who took time out of their busy schedules to attend the Academy. We hope they came away with a better understanding of what the men and women of this department do on a daily basis and our efforts to keep the community safe.”

to the Streetsby Anne Donofrio-Holter

Barry, the Montebello Police Department’s newest crime apprehension dog, along with partner Corporal Taylor Marquez, have finished their training and are now assigned to the Depart-ment’s Patrol Bureau.

“The dedication and hard work that it takes to complete the six-week training course and take on this assignment is something to be admired,” said Chief Brad Keller.

The three-year old half Belgian Malinois and half Dutch Shepherd is trained to locate suspects and find articles left behind at the scene of a crime.

Officer and citizen safety is increased by having a canine officer on the scene and they have been proven to save thousands of man hours each year. It is almost impossible to hide from a police dog’s keen sense of smell or hearing and search time is reduced as a canine officer can clear a building or area quicker then his/her human counterpart.

Now certified, Barry and Marquez will continue to train a minimum of once a week with recertification every year until the canine retires from service. “Our training group includes the South Gate, Downey, Bell Gardens and Whittier Police Departments,” said Marquez.

Marquez’ four-legged partner also goes home with him at the end of each shift. “Barry lives in my home along with Buck, my retired narcotics search dog,” said Marquez.

The community took to social media to welcome Barry and to wish he and Marquez much success. The Montebello Police Department was one of the “first generation” K-9 programs in the Southern California area, started in 1981 through private donations to augment police services to the community. The Montebello K-9 Association is a private group that assists the Department with raising funds to help support the K-9 Unit. Those interested in supporting the Unit can do so by joining the Association or through a tax-deductible donation.

by Anne Donofrio-HolterMontebello Police Officers Luis Martinez

and Rudy Pederson have been recognized by Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) for their efforts in apprehending drunk and impaired drivers and were presented with a Law Enforcement Recognition Award from the organization. MADD reports in 2016, 10,497 people in the United States lost their lives in alcohol-impaired driving crashes, which accounts for 28% of all motor vehicle traffic fatalities.

“Each incident impacts not only the person in the crash, but family, friends and loved ones as well,” said a MADD spokesperson. “Public safety personnel have set out to help protect the community from such devastation and for this, we honor them.”

The Montebello Police Department encourages everyone to think about the devastating consequences that can result from drinking and driving or getting into a vehicle with someone under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

“I am extremely proud of Officer Martinez and Officer Petersen for being recognized by MADD. Their efforts in arresting impaired drivers are saving lives,” said Montebello Police Chief Brad Keller. “MADD’s mission is to stop impaired driving and support the victims of this violent crime. Officer Martinez and Officer Petersen are certainly on a mission of their own to stop impaired driving in Montebello.”

by Anne Donofrio-HolterAgain this year, Montebello police personnel participated in the annual

Special Olympics USA Games Law Enforcement Torch Run as they carried the Flame of Hope down Beverly Boulevard from Bradshawe Avenue to Rea Drive, where it was then handed off to the Pico Rivera Sheriffs’ team. From there, the torch continued on its journey to the University of Washington’s Husky Stadium, the site of this year’s games, July 1-6.

“The Montebello Police Department has been proud to participate in this event for the past 15 years,” said Police Chief Brad Keller, who ran the ap-proximately 3.2-mile Montebello leg of the race with Corporal Maria Chavez, Officer Lisa Bustos, Detective Daniel Contreras, Officer Rene Estupinian, Officer Chris Cecil, Corporal Scott Howard, Corporal Sergio Andrade and dispatcher Stacy Smith.

“The 2018 Special Olympics USA Games showcase the abilities of athletes with intellectual disabilities, promote the ideals of acceptance and inclusion through sport, and celebrate the transformative power of Special Olympics,” said Beth Knox, 2018 Special Olympics USA Games CEO.

Over 3,500 athletes from across the county participated in this year’s Special Olympics USA Games, with 70 representing Southern California, competing in 16 events ranging from basketball to golf, from softball to swimming.

“This is my fifth time running, and I was once again honored to participate in this amazing event,” said Howard. “The community support this year as we ran was bigger than ever. We truly appreciate everyone coming out and bringing awareness to the Special Olympics.”

“It was an honor to run the Flame of Hope through Montebello with a tremendous group of dedicated Montebello police officers and one of our dispatchers who participated for the first time this year,” added Keller.

The brainchild of Wichita, Kansas Police Chief Richard LaMunyon in 1981, today, it has grown to include more than 97,000 law enforcement personnel and has raised more than $600 million for Special Olympics programs. Over 1,200 participants carry the Flame of Hope almost 900 miles through 200 Southern California communities, championing acceptance and inclusion.

by Anne Donofrio-HolterCongratulations to Montebello Bus Lines

operators Martin Solano, Jesus Garcia, and Martin Mendoza for their first, second, and third place wins, respectively, at the Los Angeles County Five Star Bus Roadeo held at the GTrans transportation and maintenance facility in Gardena.

“A collaborative effort the past seven years between Montebello Bus Lines, Santa Monica Big Blue Bus, Long Beach Transit, Norwalk Transit, Culver City Bus Lines, and Gardena Municipal Bus Lines, these roadeos are a fun way to increase safety awareness and strengthen associate relations,” said Tom Barrio, Montebello Director of Transporta-tion. “It also gives Montebello recognition at the national level as the winner goes on to represent the City in other driving events.”

The competition begins with an equip-ment inspection of the bus to make certain everything is in proper working order. With first place for the inspection going to Garcia, the operators’ driving challenge, a test of safety and skill based on points accumulated in several categories, got underway.

The operators began the task of negotiat-ing their 40-foot bus through an obstacle course that included passenger stops, judge-ment stops, diminishing clearance, tight turns, parking, and smoothness of operation, all without hitting any of the cones along the course.

Montebello bus operators Jorge Echever-ria, Alfredo Santacruz, Martha Cortez, Genaro Horta, Ronny Ramirez, Jose Somoza, and Claudia Urrutia were also among the 60 participants.

The event would not have been a success without the assistance of over 50 volunteers from the six participating agencies as well as other local transit agencies.

For his first place win, Solano next repre-

sented Montebello at the Southern California Regional Bus Roadeo hosted by Victor Valley Transit Authority in Hesperia. Solano then went on to the American Public Transporta-tion Association International Bus Roadeo in Tampa, Florida.

“Five of North America’s best bus op-erators were selected for the International Bus Roadeo Customer Service Challenge which included greeting a passenger as he/she boarded the bus, a scenario in which a passenger attempts to have the bus operator chase after a person whom allegedly stole a purse, and a wild card challenge,” said Jose Medrano, Montebello Transit Operations Manager. “Among the 88 contestants at the roadeo, Martin was one of the five selected to compete.”

“We congratulate all our Montebello bus operators who participated in the roadeos,” added Barrio. “We are proud of how well they represented not only the Montebello Bus Lines, but the City of Montebello as well.”

by Anne Donofrio-HolterA bit of drizzle did not dampen the spirits of volunteers June

23, including members of Montebello’s Boy Scout Troop 33 and Boy Scout Crew 461, along with Recreation and Community Services staff, as they canvassed the grounds of Portrero Heights Park, getting the park spruced up for summer fun. Selected by the City’s Culture and Recreation Commission, this was the park’s first volunteer community cleanup.

Volunteers turned their attention to the picnic areas, the baseball field, and the recreation room where they picked up debris, swept, raked, and prepped the picnic shelters for a future coat of fresh paint.

“We are here today because our members want to help their community,” said Boy Scout troop leader Phillip Sutton.

“We want the scouts to develop a sense of community and the importance of giving back,” said Alberto Perez, liaison

between the Montebello Lions Club and the scouts.“I’m here because I take pride in my city and working to-

gether we can accomplish great things,” said another volunteer.“Today’s effort brings volunteers together from throughout

the community that all recognize the importance in having our parks clean and ready for summer fun,” said Recreation and Community Services Director David Sosnowski. “Everyone ben-efits when the community comes together for a common goal.”

“Several residents walking their dogs came up to us to say how glad they were to see today’s cleanup,” said Recreation and Community Services Coordinator Crystal Jaimez.

Following a job well done, volunteers were treated to lunch. “On behalf of the City, I want to thank everyone who joined us here today,” added Sosnowski.


The new owners of Verizon Wireless of Montebello hosted chamber members and government officials at their store in the Montebello Mix shopping center. Representing the new ownership was VP of Sales and Marketing Terence Riddle, who accepted certificates from Montebello Mayor Vanessa Delgado; Griselda Ortiz, representing Congresswoman Linda Sanchez; and Thalia Campos representing the 32nd Senate Dis-trict. Board Chairman Armando Arenas also presented a certificate on behalf of the Montebello Chamber of Commerce and its members.

Attendees took their turns spinning a prize wheel that wielded out valuable prizes from stress toys to free tablets. All present gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony outside the store, followed by intimate networking over light refreshments. Recently purchased by 786 Wire-less, the store will see renovations in coming months. Unlike Verizon’s corporate stores, this store will have the ability to offer independent promotions and employees will be more empowered to help customers with special issues. Verizon Wireless is located at 882 W. Beverly Blvd., Montebello, CA 90640, (323) 597-1707, www.786wireless.com.

Michael “Mike” Hidalgo, formerly an active member and Ambassador with the Montebello Chamber of Com-merce, has accepted a new position as Family Counselor/Arranger for Guerra Gutierrez Mortuary in East Los Angeles. Montebello residents and business owners will know him well as the once-owner of An Affair of Flowers, a flower shop in Montebello which he operated for 26 years.

Mike Hidalgo has been involved in the funeral industry for over nine years, starting out as a funeral at-tendant and then working his way up to becoming a family counselor and arranger. When asked if it is difficult to assist families at such a critical and sad time, his answer was, “My main goal when assisting families at such a difficult time in their life is making sure that all details, desires and requests are taken care of in a professional, caring and comforting manner. The needs and care of our families are of our most concern.”

Mike was born and raised in Monterey Park and graduated from Schurr High School in Montebello. He has three sons—Jeffre, Danny and Gregory—who are his greatest accomplishments in life.

If you should have any questions whatsoever, please feel free to contact Mike Hidalgo at Guerra Gutierrez Mortuary, (323) 722-1900. Guerra Gutier-rez Mortuary is located at 5800 E. Beverly Blvd. in Los Angeles.

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