DEC EM BER 2 0 2 3
SOUTH EL MONTE BR ING ING NEWS, PE OPLE AN D E VE N T S T O THE CITY OF S OU T H E L MO N T E
NEWS
IN THIS ISSUE CURBSIDE HOLIDAY TREE RECYCLING
PG. 4
DOG LICENSES
PG. 6
BOYS & GIRLS T-BALL
PG. 8
SENIOR SERVICES
PG. 10
Now Accepting Applications for South El Monte’s Annual
CHRISTMAS WISH TOY GIVEAWAY
HAPPY HOLIDAYS
The City of South El Monte Community Services Department is now accepting application for its annual Christmas Wish Toy Giveaway event. Each year through the generous donations from South El Monte businesses and organizations, the City of South El Monte is able to spread holiday cheer to over 800 children with toys and a joyous memorable event. The South El Monte Community Center is transformed into a festive holiday themed atmosphere, where children and their families enjoy delicious food, toys, prizes, interactive activities, including a snow play area, and a special appearance by Santa Claus. The annual Christmas Wish Toy Giveaway is open to our local youth ages 13 and under from families in need. South El Monte families may apply in person at the South El Monte Community Center, located at 1530 Central Avenue, Monday through Friday from 1:00 pm to 8:30 pm. Applicants must provide a photo ID, proof of South El Monte residency (utility bill or ID), and birth certificates for the children. The last day to register is Thursday, December 14th.
City of South El Monte and Athens Services Partner to Give Away 40 Yards of Composting Material In collaboration with Athens Services, the City of South El Monte held a highly successful composting material giveaway event on Saturday, November 4th, making a significant stride toward promoting sustainable practices within the community.
Residential Customer
City of South El Monte 1415 Santa Anita Ave. South El Monte, CA 91733
PAID
PERMIT #87 EL MONTE EDDM ECRWSS
PRSRT. STD U.S. POSTAGE
For additional information, email rec@soelmonte.org or call the South El Monte Community Center at (626) 579-2043.
Residents and gardening enthusiasts flocked to the location to take advantage of the generous initiative. A total of 40 yards of composting material, provided by Athens Services, was distributed to the public free of charge. The amount of compost material was doubled from the previous event held in 2022 due to demand. The event aimed to empower residents with the resources needed to kickstart their composting efforts, reducing waste and enriching local soil. The composting material offered was carefully selected to meet the highest quality standards, ensuring its effectiveness in helping residents establish their composting systems. This event exemplifies the power of community partnerships. By joining forces with Athens Services, we’ve made it easier for our residents to embrace composting and contribute to a more sustainable South El Monte. The City of South El Monte remains committed to environmental sustainability and is actively working to reduce waste and support ecofriendly practices within the community. Events like this play a pivotal role in achieving these goals and educating the public about the benefits of composting. Residents who attended the composting material giveaway event left with not only rich compost, but also a sense of empowerment, knowing they are taking a meaningful step towards a greener and more sustainable future. For more information on upcoming sustainability initiatives and partnerships in the City of South El Monte, residents are encouraged to visit the city’s website cityofsouthelmonte.org and contact the Department of Public Works at (626) 579-6540.
02 SOUTH EL MONTE NEWS • DECEMBER 2023
SOUTH EL MONTE CITY COUNCIL MAYOR GLORIA OLMOS MAYOR PRO TEM RICHARD ANGEL COUNCILMEMBER MANUEL ACOSTA COUNCILMEMBER RUDY BOJORQUEZ COUNCILMEMBER HECTOR DELGADO
CITY COUNCIL MEETINGS
The City Council holds regular meetings on the second and fourth Tuesday of every month. Regular meetings start at 6 p.m. Questions or Assistance For additional information, please call the City Clerk’s Office at (626) 579-6540 ext. 3280.
UPCOMING MEETINGS
DECEMBER 12 To view Agendas or Agenda packets use the side QR Code, scroll down to the current and upcoming events section. CITY MANAGER RENE SALAS CITY CLERK DONNA G. SCHWARTZ COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT DIRECTOR GUILLERMO ARREOLA COMMUNITY SERVICES DIRECTOR ARIANA DE LA CRUZ FINANCE DIRECTOR MASAMI HIGA PUBLIC WORKS DIRECTOR JOHN POEHLER
CITY COMMISSION MEETINGS ADVANCEMENT OF WOMEN/GIRLS Meets Quarterly / Upcoming Meeting Meeting To Be Announced COMMUNITY SERVICES - Meets on the first Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. PATRIOTIC - Meets on the last Wednesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. PLANNING - Meets on the third Tuesday of the month at 6:00 p.m. Agenda and Meeting Minutes are available on the City’s website at cityofsouthelmonte.org
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AT CITYOFSOUTHELMONTE.ORG
CITY COUNCIL PRESENTATION City Council proclaimed November as Family Court Awareness Month with proclamation presented to Sandy Ross, President of California Protective Parents Association.
SOUTH EL MONTE NEWS • DECEMBER 2023
03
CITY HALL
1415 SANTA ANITA AVENUE • (626) 579-6540 MONDAY - THURSDAY • 7:00 A.M. - 5:30 P.M. FRIDAY - SUNDAY • CLOSED CLOSED ON MAJOR HOLIDAYS
SOUTH EL MONTE 2024 HOMELESS COUNT SAVE THE DATE TUESDAY, JANUARY 23, 2024 VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES MORE DETAILS WILL BE RELEASED IN THE JANUARY NEWSLETTER
Administration City Clerk Human Resources Finance Building & Safety Housing Community Development Planning Economic Development Code Enforcement Public Works/Engineering Parking Enforcement
CITY YARD
1900 CENTRAL AVENUE • (626) 444-3158 MONDAY - THURSDAY • 7:00 A.M. - 4:00 P.M. CLOSED ON MAJOR HOLIDAYS
COMMUNITY CENTER
1530 CENTRAL AVENUE • (626) 579-2043 MONDAY - FRIDAY • 1:00 P.M - 9:00 P.M. CLOSED ON MAJOR HOLIDAYS
SENIOR CENTER
1556 CENTRAL AVENUE • (626) 448-0131 MONDAY - FRIDAY • 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. CLOSED ON MAJOR HOLIDAYS
SHERIFF’S TEMPLE STATION 8838 LAS TUNAS DR., TEMPLE CITY, CA 91780 (626) 285-7171 • LASD.ORG/TEMPLE 911 FOR LIFE-THREATENING EMERGENCIES OR IN-PROGRESS CRIMES
HOMELESS RESOURCES LAHSA
(LOS ANGELES HOMELESS SERVICES AUTHORITY)
MAKE A HOMELESS OUTREACH REQUEST AT LA-HOP.ORG OR DIAL 211
IMPORTANT NUMBERS ANIMAL CONTROL (SEAACA)
(562) 803-3301
ANONYMOUS NARCOTICS TIP LINE
(626) 292-3375
BUSINESS LICENSES
(626) 332-5797
CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
(626) 443-0180
GREATER EL MONTE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
(626) 579-7777
HOUSING RIGHTS HOTLINE
(800) 477-5977
LA COUNTY ASSESSOR’S OFFICE
(626) 258-6001
LA COUNTY SOCIAL PROGRAMS
211
LA COUNTY WHITTIER NARROWS
(626) 575-5526
LIBRARY (626) 443-4158 POST OFFICE (800) 275-8777 SAN GABRIEL VALLEY SERVICE CENTER
(626) 575-5431
SUPERVISOR HILDA L. SOLIS OFFICE
(626) 350-4500
VECTOR CONTROL (562) 944-9656
UTILITY COMPANIES
ATHENS SERVICES (TRASH/STREET SWEEPING)
(888) 336-6100
EDISON (800) 655-4555 GAS COMPANY (800) 427-2000 SAN GABRIEL VALLEY WATER COMPANY (626) 448-6183 SPECTRUM (888) 369-2808
04 SOUTH EL MONTE NEWS • DECEMBER 2023
2024 YARD SALE DATES The City of South El Monte allows yard sales citywide in Residential Zones on the first Saturday of every month with a permit. Residents may obtain their FREE yard permit: Online: visit cityofsouthelmonte.org/345/Yard-Sales City Hall: 1415 Santa Anita Avenue, Monday - Thursday from 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM Proof of residency (i.e., electric, water, or gas bill) is required for permit.
Upcoming Yard Sale Dates for 2024 January 6 February 3 March 2 April 6
May 4 June 1 July 6 August 3
September 7 October 5 November 2 December 7
For additional information, email customercare@soelmonte.org or call (626) 579-6540.
SOUTH EL MONTE NEWS • DECEMBER 2023
05
LOS ANGELES COUNTY
SHERIFF’S
TEMPLE STATION
HOLIDAY THEFT PREVENTION
• Do not put the Christmas tree in front of a window. This could make it an easy smashand-grab for holiday criminals to steal your gifts.
• Lock windows and doors when you leave your home, even if its only for a minute. • Protect your online purchases. Monitor when your packages are expected to arrive and
8838 LAS TUNAS DRIVE TEMPLE CITY, CA 91780 (626) 285-7171 DIAL 911 FOR EMERGENCIES
The City of South El Monte contracts with the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for law enforcement services. Designated deputies of the Sheriff’s Temple Station oversee the safety of South El Monte community members. Temple Station responsibilities include: • Promoting and preserving public order. • Documenting and investigating any criminal activity.
don’t leave them on your porch or in your mailbox. Sign up for delivery notifications. If possible, have your packages shipped to your workplace or have a neighbor who is home during the day collect them for safe keeping.
• Providing emergency response to all life threatening incidents.
• Do not put large or small boxes out on or before garbage day. Doing this allows
• Preventing Crime by Community Policing with the community it serves.
others and potential thieves to see what new things you have in your home. Cut up packaging ensuring labels are not visible.
• Leave a light or television on when no one is home. This can give the illusion that someone is home and deter potential thieves.
• Install a security system. Security such as doorbell cameras and motion activated sensors can add extra security.
• If someone knocks on your door that you do not know, don’t answer it. Speak through the door to let them know you are home. If they seem suspicious call the Sheriff’s Temple Station at (626) 285-7171.
• Don’t leave keys hidden outside or in fake concealment rocks. Burglars often know how to spot the most common hiding places quickly.
• Protect your vehicle from prowlers. Keep the interior of your vehicle clean. Never leave gifts or shopping bags in plain sight. Lock valuables in your trunk or remove them before exiting your vehicle. Remove all gifts and items of value from the vehicle when leaving it overnight.
• If you are traveling for the holidays, do not post on social media. Never advertise an empty house. Also, have a neighbor or family watch your home, pick-up your mail and newspapers or put a hold on mail and newspaper delivery.
• Ongoing education to citizens within the community with current crime prevention ideas and methods.
06 SOUTH EL MONTE NEWS • DECEMBER 2023 DOG LICENSES All dogs, (4) months of age and older, are required by law to be vaccinated for rabies and to have a current license. A valid license with current information also identifies the pet’s owner and allows them to be reunited with their pet in case they ever get lost. SEAACA, the City of South El Monte’s Animal Control Services provider has partnered with DocuPet to provide enhanced pet licensing services for South El Monte residents. Pet licenses can now be purchased and renewed online at seaaca.docupet.com. This new, easyto-use online licensing service provides a quick and easy process to license your pet. Each DocuPet tag doubles as a pet’s official license and comes equipped with the HomeSafe™ 24/7 lost pet service, which relies on a dedicated full time dispatch staff and linked pet profiles to help get lost pets home quickly. LICENSING FEES All dog licensing is valid for one year. • $25 sterilized (spayed/neutered) • $60 unaltered • $15 sterilized (spayed/neutered) • $40 unaltered
South El Monte Community Center
*Senior must provide proof of age to obtain discount fee.
1530 Central Ave.
License fees can be paid online, in person, over the phone or by mail. TO PURCHASE OR RENEW A LICENSE ONLINE Step 1. Obtain a copy of your pet’s rabies vaccination certificate. Spay/Neuter certificates may be required for discounted rate. Step 2. Go online to seaaca.docupet.com to purchase your license. You will be required to submit a copy of your rabies vaccination certificate (and spay/neuter certificate if applicable) at the time of purchase. Visit seaaca.docupet.com to license your pet now. If you are unable to complete your license registration online, you may also license over the phone, by mail, or in-person at SEAACA. SEAACA ADDRESS: 9777 Seaaca Street Downey, CA 90241 IN-PERSON LICENSING OFFICE HOURS Customers are assisted on a first come, first served basis. *Tuesday - Saturday: 8:00 am - 4:00 pm *Saturday: 9:00 am - 3:00 pm *The Licensing Department is closed daily from 11:20 am - 12:30 pm. FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, VISIT SEAACA.ORG OR CALL (562) 803-3301.
2024 DATES Oct-12
Jan-6
Mar-16
May-25
Aug-3
Jan-20
Mar-30
Jun-8
Aug-17
Feb-3
Apr-13
Jun-22
Aug-31
Nov-23
Feb-17
Apr-27
Jul-6
Sep-14
Dec-7
Mar-2
May-11
Jul-20
Sep-28
Dec-21
Oct-26 Nov-9
Individual Vaccinations & Cost Saving Vaccination Packs and Series Available
Dog & Cat Vaccinations • Fecal Exams • Deworming Wellness Exams • Microchipping • Nail Trimming Prescription Flea Control • Diagnostic Testing
1-800-988-8387 www.vetcarepetclinic.com @vetcarepetclinic
Vet Care Pet Clinic
Prices Subject to Change. Please bring all dogs on leashes and cats in carriers. Medical Waste Disposal Fee $3.00
SOUTH EL MONTE NEWS • DECEMBER 2023
07
COMMUNITY SNAPSHOTS
08 SOUTH EL MONTE NEWS • DECEMBER 2023
PARKS & RECREATION DIVISION The Parks and Recreation Division enriches the quality of lives for our community through the variety of events and programs they provide.
COMMUNITY CENTER
CITY OF SOUTH EL MONTE COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT
1530 CENTRAL AVE. • (626) 579-2043 MONDAY-FRIDAY • 1:00 P.M. - 9:00 P.M. CLOSED ON MAJOR HOLIDAYS
• ADULT SPORTS
BOYS & GIRLS
• AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAMS
YEARS OLD
4-6
• PARK & FACILITY RENTALS • SEASONAL DAY CAMPS • SPECIAL EVENTS • YOUTH & RECREATIONAL PROGRAMS *Programs, events, and fees are subject to change.
CONNECT WITH US SEM_PARKSANDREC
T-Ball is a non-competitive program focused on fun, fitness, and fundamentals where players ages 4-6 are first introduced to the basics of baseball. REGISTRATION INFORMATION RESIDENTS: JANUARY 8, 2024 - FEBRUARY 9, 2024; FEE: $60 (SIBLING DISCOUNT AVAILABLE) NON-RESIDENTS: JANUARY 22, 2024 - FEBRUARY 9, 2024; FEE: $90 PER CHILD *MUST BRING PROOF OF CHILD’S AGE TO REGISTER.
SIGN UP FOR NOTIFICATIONS
REGISTER AT THE SOUTH EL MONTE COMMUNITY CENTER 1530 CENTRAL AVE. MONDAY - FRIDAY FROM 1:00 PM - 8:30 PM.
CITYOFSOUTHELMONTE.ORG
REGISTER ONLINE AT HTTPS://BIT.LY/3PEN7PR OR SCAN THE QR CODE
NOTIFY ME AT
COACHES WANTED
REGISTER FOR PARKS & RECREATION ONLINE
VOLUNTEER COACHES MUST COMPLETE AN APPLICATION & PASS A BACKGROUND CHECK. FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE EMAIL REC@SOELMONTE.ORG REGISTRATION SPACE IS LIMITED AND WILL BE ON A FIRST-COME, FIRST SERVED BASIS. *SUBJECT TO CHANGE OR CANCELLATION. SEM_PARKSANDREC
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE CALL 626-579-2043.
SOUTH EL MONTE NEWS • DECEMBER 2023
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CITY OF SOUTH EL MONTE COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT We’re Making Our List and Checking it Twice! This Holiday Season, The City of South El Monte will help bring a smile to hundreds of children.
CHRISTMAS WISH TOY GIVEAWAY
REGISTRATION REQUIREMENTS
Photo ID Proof of South El Monte residency (utility bill or ID) Proof of low-income status Birth certificates for dependents ages 0-13
LAST DAY TO REGISTER IS DECEMBER 14TH Register in person at the South El Monte Community Center 1530 Central Ave. Monday - Friday from 1:00 PM - 8:30 PM
SEM_PARKSANDREC
FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE EMAIL REC@SOELMONTE.ORG OR CALL 626-579-2043.
City of South El Monte Community Services Department
CITY OF SOUTH EL MONTE COMMUNITY SERVICES DEPARTMENT
The annual Holiday Home Decorating Contest is here! Residents are encouraged to show their holiday spirit by displaying their festive decorations and lights.
WINTER CAMP
Holiday Home Decorating Contest
DECEMBER 21 - JANUARY 5 (NO CAMP ON DEC. 25TH AND JAN. 1ST)
There is no registration or cost required to participate, but if you would like to ensure your home gets judged please email rec@soelmonte.org with your full name, address, and phone number.
7:30 AM - 6:00 PM KINDER - 8TH GRADE
Only residences within the City of South El Monte are eligible. Judging will be based on holiday-themed decor on the exterior of a property. Contest judging will take place from December 18th - December 21st from 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM. Judges will tour the entire city looking for the most festive properties. Photos of winning homes will be posted on the City of South El Monte’s social media platforms.
CONTEST CATEGORIES Most Holiday Spirit Best Use of Lights Most Animated Best Overall
SEM_PARKSANDREC
For more information, please email rec@soelmonte.org or call 626-579-2043.
REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN! RESIDENT FEE: $60 (SIBLING DISCOUNT AVAILABLE FOR RESIDENTS) NON-RESIDENT FEE: $100 Register Online at https://bit.ly/3PEn7Pr or scan the QR Code
Register in person at the South El Monte Community Center 1530 Central Ave. South El Monte Monday - Friday from 1:00 PM - 8:30 PM
SEM_PARKSANDREC
For more information, please email rec@soelmonte.org or call 626-579-2043.
10 SOUTH EL MONTE NEWS • DECEMBER 2023
SENIOR SERVICES DIVISION SENIOR CENTER
1556 CENTRAL AVE. • (626) 448-0131 MONDAY-FRIDAY • 8:00 A.M. - 5:00 P.M. CLOSED ON MAJOR HOLIDAYS • NUTRITION PROGRAM • TRANSPORTATION SERVICES • SOCIAL/EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS • HEALTH/WELLNESS PROGRAMS • EXCURSIONS *Programs, events, and fees are subject to change.
SIGN UP FOR NOTIFICATIONS
NOTIFY ME AT
CITYOFSOUTHELMONTE.ORG
PRESENTATIONS & MORE TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5 10:15 A.M. - 11:15 A.M.
MEDICAL CHANGES PRESENTATION & INFORMATION BOOTH BY WELBE HEALTH
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7 · 10:15 A.M. - 11:15 A.M. LA CARE BENEFITS INFORMATION BOOTH BY LA CARE
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12 10:15 A.M. - 11:15 A.M.
HEALTH PLAN BENEFITS BY BILHARTZ DESERT INSURANCE AGENCY
CLUB MEETINGS & CASH BINGO 3L CLUB • DEC.: 5, 7, 19, 21 12:30 P.M. - 3:30 P.M.
CLUB LATINO • DEC.: 12, 26, 28 12:30 P.M. - 3:30 P.M.
3L & CLUB LATINO DINNER & DANCE: DECEMBER 14 (MEMBERS ONLY)
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14 · 9:30 A.M. - 11:15 A.M. TAP CARDS* & METRO MICRO PRESENTATION *METRO WILL BE PROVIDING TAP CARDS BY LA METRO
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19 10:15 A.M. - 11:15 A.M.
NEW MEDICARE INFORMATION BOOTH BY APPLIED GENERAL AGENCY (AGA)
SOUTH EL MONTE NEWS • DECEMBER 2023
11
City of South El Monte Senior Services Division
PARTY Seniors (60+) Welcome 2024 With Us!
Lunch Registration begins at 8:30 a.m.
Group performances from 10 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. Door Prizes & Raffles will follow.
Wednesday, December 27, 2023 Registration for Lunch begins at 8:30 a.m. Lunch will be served at 11:30 a.m. Dance from 12 p.m. to 2 p.m.
South El Monte Senior Center
1556 Central Ave., South El Monte
Countdown at 1 p.m. Door Prizes / Raffles
South El Monte Senior Center 1556 Central Ave., South El Monte
For more information, call (626) 448-0131.
SENIOR TALENT SHOW WINNERS On October 18, 2023, the South El Monte Senior Services hosted its first Senior Talent Show in partnership with JAR and AltaMed Insurance. Congratulations to our winners: 1st place Felix Zuniga (singing) 2nd place Eugenia Avelino (dancing) 3rd place Maria Castaneda (stand up) Left to right: Maria Castaneda, Felix Zuniga, and Eugenia Avelino.
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