Glendora's Blog

For all of those who have heard (or haven’t heard), their was a mountain lion that roamed around in our foothills in more the past several weeks, even months.

This mountain lion is known for attacking dogs in local areas. Two 70-pound dogs were attacked in Glendora on a street off of North Barranca. Unfortunately, the mountain lion killed one of the friendly pets and injured the second one. The second dog is said to have recovered from its injuries. There was also a dog that was killed by a mountain lion in Arcadia.

Officials claim that they killed the mountain lion responsible for all of these attacks on family pets. While some police were at a house in Arcadia, the mountain lion charged them after starting after a dog. The Arcadia police then shot this 140-pound mountain lion. With much relief to many, I will still be cautious when I am out running or biking alone.

I will remain on my toes about the mountain lion sightings and attacks. The authorities have killed one mountain lion, but I am afraid that there may be more. As a precaution, I make sure to go to go for a walk with a friend and during the day time. As we remain on the lookout for more mountain lion signs, lets not forget the ways to remain safe around a mountain lion.

1. Never hike alone.
2. Keep children and pets close.
3. Never approach a mountain lion.
4. Fight back if you are attacked.
5. Call the rangers or local police department if/when you see a mountain lion.

Did you know that we are the first state to pass a Bill making restaurants post caloric information?

This new law will only affect restaurants in California that have 20 or more units, which excludes 80% of restaurants in California. It will affect over 17,000 chain restaurants though. With this new law, restaurants will be required to post caloric information including calories and grams of saturated fat. It must be included in menu’s and on indoor boards. This law will also make restaurants have preprinted handouts with such information. Fortunately for restaurants, this law won’t go into affect until January, 1st, 2011. In that time, the restaurants can prepare the information that is necessary, and also try to add some new diet friendly items. This can either help or hurt restaurants. For restaurants this law can either help or hurt their sales. If the items the restaurant sells are high in calories and saturated fat, many people that are concerned with calories will tend to steer away from unhealthier choices. On the other hand, for such health conscious people, if the items have lesser calories they may want to go to that restaurant more often. There will still be people that do not care to keep track of calories and saturated fat, but for the majority of people, this law will help to educate us.

In the last decade Californian’s have gained 360 million pounds collectively, according to NBC. California’s governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger, signed this Bill on October 1st in hopes of helping to control obesity.

Although I know generally how many calories everything I eat has in it, this is a great way to inform me on what is a better choice if I want to watch my calorie consumption.

Do you like this new law?

Sorry ladies of Glendora but this one is for the boys. If you have not been to Sport Clips at the new Diamond Ridge Center you are missing out on an experience! Although they have only been in town for a few months they have made a huge impact in the city and will make you second guess where you get your haircut now! When you walk in there are TVs everywhere gleaming with the wonderful channel we all love, thats right ESPN! In addition there is some awesome memorabilia from local teams all over the store, and some of it is for sale if you are so inclined. They offer everything from a simple haircut for $17 for men and $14 for boys, to the MVP treatment which is literally about $5-$7 more but you get so much more for your dollar. Included in the MVP package is a haircut,shampoo, neck and scalp massage, and a warm towel for your face. Not only do you get a great haircut but you feel refreshed afterward. All of the staff is extremely friendly and make everything worth every penny. In addition you can come back in a week or two if you get the MVP package and they will trim up your neck free of charge! To me its the little touches that stands a place out above the rest and Sport Clips does just that! So if you look in the mirror and think its time for a little trim, but afraid of missing the game, dont worry Sport Clips has you covered!

If you have been in Glendora for any decent amount of time you hopefully have had the pleasure of having a slice of pizza from Petrillo’s. If you haven’t then now is the best time to indulge in this amazing Italian favorite. First off, the pizza is generously sized and the toppings and cheese are piled on thicker than any pizza I have ever encountered. The flavor is amazing and the friendly staff make the entire experience one to remember and to come back to over and over again. Not only has Petrillo’s been recognized in our community, but was voted on AOL as the best pizza in Los Angeles! This is truly a great honor, and shows just how great Petrillo’s pizza is and how influential Glendora is to the entire county. Congratulations on this recognition! Pick up a copy of the I Shop Glendora, Petrillo’s is offering a coupon of $5 off any order of $25 or more, and especially with money as tight as it is for most, this is one of the best deals out there. So to all of those people out there that have always wanted to try but never did, I implore you to give them a call and order one tonight, and when you do write a reply and let me know if you agree! :)

Glendora High Football is continuing to defend its Sierra League title with its come from behind victory over Damien last Friday night. The Tartans were down 14-3 at the half, but with the help of two late touchdown passes from quarterback Drew Kaluzny, the Tartans were able to extend their league record to 2-0 and an overall record of 5-2. This Friday maybe Halloween but its also the day that you can come out to cheer on your Tartans in their homecoming game at Citrus College at 7PM as they take on Chino Hills. Lets come together as a community to support not only our football team but all of the athletics at Glendora High School and support their efforts on and off the field. Go Tartans!

About 15 years ago, Glendora possessed something that most of us enjoy and like to engage in quite often, and for this overdue amount of time we have been unable to have this attraction as a part of our community. However Glendora can now be proud to say that the movies are alive in well right here in our community! With the opening of the AMC 12 Theater at the Diamond Ridge Center, Glendora is finally able to enjoy the wonderful world and entertainment that movies provide to us, without having to travel miles away for it. The new AMC is completely state of the art with digital projection in every theater, stadium seating, reclining chairs, and all the other amenities you have come to like at AMC. Also check out the latest issue of I Shop Glendora, our contest winner this quarter will win free movie passes for an entire year! Check out the I Shop Glendora website soon on how to register and win your chance to experience this brand new theater all year long!

Throughout the world in recent history Polio has been a crippling and devastating disease that robs so much potential and ability from young and old alike. Although Polio is very rare here in the US and for all purposes it is a thing of the past, in developing nations such as Nigeria Polio is not a past problem but a present tragedy. The Rotary Club has been dedicated to a three year campaign to completely eradicate all remaining Polio around the world. Recently Bill Gates donated a 100 million dollar grant to fight this disease throughout the international community. The Rotary responded by initiating its world wide three year campaign to match the grant and put this money to good uses in containing and destroying Polio wherever it is to be found. Your local Glendora Rotary club is fervent in their effort to help contribute as much as possible to help Rotary International fight this noble cause head on. If you feel compelled to help them join in the fight through a financial contribution, volunteering, or would like more information please call (626) 388-2129, or feel free to visit their meetings every Tuesday at Noon at the Continental Restaurant at 316 W. Route 66. Lets all continue to do our part to remember all of those around us, not just in our town or country but over every nation and everyone. For although they may not reside in our backyard, we all encompass this Earth and we must work together to make life for all of us that much better for the future.

It’s almost that time again. Voting day is right around the corner, and a new president is on the way. Next Tuesday, November 4, is the day that comes around every four years, where our nation collectively gives our input on who we feel is the best to lead our country. I have always wondered why this Tuesday in November was chosen, and today I finally decided to look into some of the history on it. Did you know that in 1845, Congress chose the date based on a compilation of cultural factors? They decided to hold this date in November because it was after the harvesting season was complete, but before the winter storms became a hindrance to their paths of communication. In addition, this also gave them plenty of time before the Electoral College met together. As for the actual decision of making it a Tuesday, the implications of an agrarian society made this the most logical day. Horse and buggy was the most common form of travel, and farmers needed a day to get to the county seat to vote, and a day to get back. Tuesday seemed to be the most logical day because it would not interfere with the rules of the Sabbath or the Wednesday market, both important highlights of the week at this time in history. Now, even though times and culture have changed drastically, it is still pretty neat to know that we have had this tradition of voting on the Tuesday after the first Monday in the month of November for over 150 years. So regardless of your political affiliation, your busy schedule, or your thought that your vote has no weight, make sure you get down to the polls next Tuesday and not only do your part as a voting citizen, but also exercise your right to vote and the freedom we have in this country.

Nestled in the mountains of Glendora, just North on Grand Avenue, right off Sierra Madre is a place where many families go for some local excitement. It’s called Fall Fest. Bouncers of all shapes and sizes, a rock climbing wall, hay rides, pony rides, putt putt golf, hay maze, pumpkin patch, music, food, friends and neighbors, and the list goes on. Church of the Open Door puts on this amazing carnival for families every year. Since we go to church there and we’re involved in the event, my husband and I took our two year old daughter. First, she tried every bouncer that allowed her size and age. Then she wanted to ride a pony, which was very amusing to see her talking to the pony and even more amusing that the pony talked back, in pony talk of course. She wasn’t quite sure about the petting zoo with the ducks and goat and chicks. Back to more bouncing, the giant slide and then a snow cone- a blue one which resulted in…well you know! Cotton candy,(which she decided she doesn’t like! How lucky are we??) dancing, music, frito pies, nachos, burgers, and candy, candy, candy - quick stop at the pumpkin patch, and then home for a nice long nap. It was great! Our friends’ daughter even won the ‘Guess How Much the Giant Pumpkin Weighs’ contest, for which the prize was the coolest giant pumpkin there, AND $100!!! Needless to say that we absolutely enjoyed our family time, and have made this a tradition for our Fall activities. Fall Fest is always held the Saturday one week before Halloween. So if you missed it this year, make sure you remember for next time! It’s a lot of good clean fun for everyone.

As this spooky holiday draws nearer, I thought it might be interesting to dig a little deeper into the origins and traditions associated with Halloween. Why do we carve up pumpkins and fiend for candy? And what does “Halloween” mean in the first place?

After a bit of research, I feel like I’ve uncovered some interesting facts about one of my favorite holidays.

As it turns out, Halloween is not a native holiday to America. Instead, Halloween, or Samhain, was actually introduced to Americans by Irish immigrants in the 19th century. Samhain, is an ancient Celtic festival which celebrates the end of the harvest season. “Well that doesn’t sound ‘dark’ at all” you might say. In actuality, Samhain wasn’t exactly a family get together. History.com notes that “[The] day marked the end of summer and the harvest and the beginning of the dark, cold winter, a time of year that was often associated with human death.” For the Gaels, they believed that the dead would rise and cause harm to the living. By ruining the crops or causing illness, it would leave the Gaels helpless for the harshness of the coming winter months.

Costumes and masks became tradition as the Gaels would dress up to mimic, impress, or appease the lurking, evil spirits.

OK, so maybe costumes make sense, but why cut up a pumpkin? The story goes that an old farmer, Jack, chased the devil up into a tree and carved a cross into the trunk to keep him there. Quite unhappy, the devil cursed Jack forcing him to wander the earth with a lantern made from a turnip. Pumpkins became the popular choice on America due to their size and today we carve “pumpkin lanterns” for Jack. Thus, Jack-O’-Lanterns. Its also believed that Europeans, in fear of evil spirits, or the devil himself, developed the idea of carving faces into vegetables to symbolize a head. They thought the idea of light and knowledge (from the head) would scare away unwanted guests.

Pretty interesting stuff, I’d say. Of course there is much more to learn about Halloween, so if you’d like to learn more, check out Wikipedia or History.com. In the meantime, here are some more fast facts:

• Halloween is short for All Hallows’ Even

• All Saints’ Day became fixed on November 1, 835

• In Mexico, “Trick Or Treat!” is replaced with “¡Noche de Brujas, Halloween!”

• In 43 AD, Roman festivals and Samhain began to combine. Bobbing for apples became a Samhain tradition as apples were the symbol for Pomona, the Roman goddess of fruit and trees.

• Samhain was actually held on November 1st, not October 31st.

• The passing out of candy originated with the belief that the dead would rise and visit the living. To appease the risen spirits, the homeowner would offer fruit and treats.

• Some believe that nocturnal animals, like bats and cats, have supernatural abilities to communicate with the dead. It was also thought that witches could turn into black cats and Dracula into a bat.

• American’s spend an estimated $21 million in Halloween candy.

Pumpkin Festival
When: Saturday, October 18
Time: 10am to 4pm
Where: Centennial Heritage Park, 723-725 E Mauna Loa Avenue (adjacent to South Hills Park)
Cost: $3 per person (Children 4 and under are FREE!)
Details: Enjoy a fun filled step back in time at the only city park dedicated to preserving the pioneering spirit and cultural heritage of Glendora. Free round trip transportation provided from City Hall to Centennial Heritage Park from 10am to 4:35pm.

Halloween Walk
When: Friday, October 31
Time: 10am to 2pm
Where: Glendora Village
Cost: FREE!
Details: Bring your little goblins and princesses (elementary aged children and younger) for trick-or-treating along the Village shops at the annual Halloween Walk, where they’ll be sure to get lots of treats!

Halloween Carnival 
When: Friday, October 31
Time: 5pm to 8pm
Where: Finkbiner Park Softball Fields
Cost: FREE!
Details: Later in the day, at the Finkbiner Park Softball Fields, the fun continues with tons of games, contests and prizes at the Halloween Carnival (age 12 and under). Call 914-2357 for more information. This event is sponsored by the Glendora Community Services Department.

I know, its sounds a little absurd and probably unbelievable. But when your days are full and the schedule is hectic, there is nothing better than getting a little extra help to maximize your time.

Fast Fit, the gym that is making it all happen, is opening it’s doors next Monday, September 22nd with a revolutionary machine that will make your workout quick and satisfying. Their top of the line ROM (range of motion) machines allow you to get a full body workout in no time at all (actually, only 4 minutes a day or 8 minutes every other day).

Skeptical? I understand. But wait until you give it a shot and actually feel the burn and sweat start after just a minute or two on this amazing machine. Designed to exercise every muscle in the body, this machine allows you to experience not only the satisfaction of the work out, but also the hours of time that you will save by not going to a regular gym.

In addition to this unique and amazing machine, you will be assisted by the friendly and trained staff to guide you through your 4 minute work out. Fast Fit is conveniently located at 123 West Route 66, next to Albertson’s and open six days a week. No matter if you choose to stop by on your way to work, during your lunch break, or in between appointments, it won’t take you long to get the work out you need. So go check it out whenever you have a couple extra minutes to spare and see for yourself the new efficient and revolutionary concept of going to the gym!

BTW, they also have a referral program where you can get up to 2 months free by referring family, friends or coworkers. I’ll definitely be handing out the referral cards as it’s one of those things you have to try for yourself to believe. It really works!

It’s not too late…today, September 17th is the Glendora Day at the Fair. Located in Pomona, the L.A. County Fair will be open from 11:00 AM to 10:00 PM today. Come out and support your city as we will have a Glendora Parade with many different music groups and organizations (including the GHS Band, a Glendora horse race, and more).

Interested in seeing Jessica Simpson in concert or Lifehouse / Gavin Rossdale? They will be performing at the L.A. County Fair. Get tickets online through Ticketmaster.

For L.A. County Fair tickets, check out the L.A. County Fair website, or go to the Glendora Chamber of Commerce for special deals for today, Glendora Day at the Fair. The fair will end on September 28th and is closed on Monday and Tuesday. I went on Saturday the 6th and it was great! I saw Sugarland in concert. It was the best concert I have been to. Make sure you get the chance to go to the L.A. County Fair, after all it is in Pomona and less than 15 miles away from Glendora.

Did you know we have a state color, insect, song and more..?

I didn’t either until I stumbled on the California State Library and found out the state of California among other states have state symbols.

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The fair opened on Friday, September 5th. From horse races and the historic train exhibit to deep fried snickers, the fair has always been tons of fun for me. Check out their website for more info. The fair will have several great concerts from Smokey Robinson to Lifehouse/Gavin Rossdale. I actually went on Saturday to the Sugarland concert. Although I waited until two days before the concert to get the tickets it was amazing. As an avid country music listener, they put on quite a performance. The Glendora Day at the Fair is on Wednesday, September 17th. Go to the Glendora Chamber of Commerce for great discounts.

No matter your reason why you enjoy the fair, make it a point to go to the Glendora Day to support our city and get to see the GHS Band along with a Glendora parade!

Opening day at the Daily Grind Unwind and I must report a fantastic lunch! I had a dentist appointment next door at Glendora Smiles and decided to drop in to see if the Daily Grind was open yet. In fact, today was their first day of business. Knowing how many places aren’t the best on their first day, week or even month of business, I went in somewhat expecting the drinks to be just okay and the food the same. But, was happily surprised at the quality and service I received. I ordered a roast beef and cheddar sandwich which they nicely toasted, and had an iced latte which was superbly made. Having been a barista during my college years, I learned how to pull a good shot of espresso and so many places these days do a horrible job of it. But, the barista at Daily Grind Unwind made a great drink. The sandwich was great and they also serve gelato which I plan to try soon. Definitely check it out!

Here is a coupon for a free drink*.

When we started working on the I Shop Glendora program with the Glendora Chamber of Commerce, we knew we wanted to create a different sort of publication. One that would educate Glendorans on the benefits of shopping locally, while also offering the best and most cost effective advertising medium for our local businesses. As we’re moving toward the fourth issue of I Shop Glendora, it’s been amazing to hear all the positive feedback. If you checkout the I Shop Glendora website, you’ll see a testimonials page that features a few businesses that have shared their recent successes with the program. Also, don’t forget to enter the current I Shop Glendora contest for your chance to win a gift certificate to MI Music. If you have ideas for future contests or prizes, we welcome your suggestions. FYI…The next issue of I Shop Glendora will be mailed the last week of October and it will feature editorial about giving back to those in need in our community.

Be careful of mountain lions as there have been many sightings lately. Last night my mom and I went for a walk around Goddard Middle School and were stopped by a kind older woman. She told us to be careful because just last night when she was walking her dog, she…

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As many of you have noticed in the past month, school signs have been all over the place stating that school begins today, August 26th. Be sure to follow traffic regulations in school zones with a speed limit of 25 mph. With school starting I have to leave an extra five minutes early to go to work from the reduced speed limit to extra traffic around schools. Although it can be a pain to watch that I am only going 25 mph, I am happy that we are being cautious with children. After everything is said and done I still love all these little munchkins.

The last Glendora Farmer’s Market for this season is this Thursday, August 28th. Enjoy a night of entertainment there with live music by The Vic Moraga Band, fresh produce, great food, and a lot of fun. Every summer my family and I make a point to go to…

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