Claremont

2014

Living

A closer look at all Claremont has to offer.

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Claremont

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Going green increases a homes value

by Carlos Samuelson

Home is where the heart is

by Beth Hartnett

Many Claremont homes are steeped in history.

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Building a bigger Claremont

by Ryan Zimmerman

Claremont is booming with new housing developments.

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Whats in a name?

by Kathryn Dunn

The story behind the names of parks and community centers.

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hen we represent clients in the sale of their home, they will often ask, What improvements do you recommend to increase the value and the desirability of the home? In the past, my answer would have been upgrades to the kitchen or bathroom. Today, we recommend improvements with cost-effective energy-efficiency measures. Green energy efficiency upgrades are playing a major factor in home pricing. Green-labeled homes sell at higher prices and can add as much as a nine percent* price premium based on the upgrades. Getting an energy assessment before putting your home on the market is the first step. The purpose of the assessment is to understand how the whole house works as a system and then pinpoint where energy use can be improved and comfort can be enhanced, thus eliminating wasted energy while saving money. Local companies, such as Home Performance Matters, can perform this energy audit for under $500. Its important to not assume that recommendations for energy upgrades will be costly. The greatest percentage of energy saving may arise from some of the most affordable upgrades, such as reducing air leaks and insulating water heaters, pipes and ducts. Some simple items that you can start on today are installing a tankless water heater, LED and solar lighting, weather stripping and digital thermostats. To reduce water usage, homeowners can install low-flow toilets, shower heads and faucets, as well as include drought-tolerant landscaping in the garden. All of these should be considered prior to installing solar panels, which can initially be more costly. There are many resources that can help homeowners with rebates, incentives, special finances and tax credits. Energy Upgrade California offers resources and rebates to help homeowners make their house more energy-efficient and more comfortable. Its an alliance of the state of California, local utilities and local cities and counties. For more information, visit energyupgradeca.org. Southern California Edison and Southern California Gas Company also offer attractive rebates to homeowners. For homebuyers, green is fast becoming a priority whether it's to reduce energy costs, minimize carbon footprints or to improve overall indoor air quality. Why not upgrade your home with what buyers are looking for and increase the value at the same time?
[Editors note: Carlos Samuelson is a realtor with Century 21 Prestige Properties and a Certified Green Real Estate Professional. KD] *The Value of Green Labels in the California Market (July 2012) Nils Kok, University of California, Berkeley; Matthew E. Kahn, University of California, Los Angeles.

A school for every family

by Sarah Torribio

The city of trees and PhDs offers a variety of educational options.

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TheClaremontLife.com
909.447.7707
Ryan@RRZimmerman.com
Broker Associate, ABR, GRI, SRES, e-Pro. DRE# 01801354.

Ryan is a Claremont native; residing in the city for over 28 years, and is extremely rooted and knowledgeable about his community and local neighborhoods. Let Ryan use his knowledge of the area to help guide you to the perfect home. Ryan was awarded Claremont Businessperson of the Year 2012-2013 by the Claremont Chamber of Commerce and he compiles the COURIERs monthly Real Estate Snapshot. Check it out to keep current on Claremonts housing market.

P erfectly uniting exceptional properties with the buyers who will cherish them.

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INTERNATIONAL REALTY

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CLAREMONT LIVING/2014

In fact, the Playfords have spent a significant amount of time engaging with the history of their homes. The couple made their first home in a cozy old colonial in the suburbs of Snyder, New York. They later found themselves immersed in the rich culture of Alexandria, Virginia, where they lived in an 18th-century home erected when the town served as a place of respite for construction crews building the nations capitol. Claremonts East Coast charm and old-town feel quickly drew the Playfords in when a career change called them to the West Coast in 2000. The town really stuck in my mind. The houses were all differentthere wasnt that cookie-cutter look like you see with developments. It was a real city, Ms. Playford said. They thought their days of restoring historic homes was a thing of the past and were looking for the convenience of a modern abode when they stumbled upon a spacious Spanish Colonial Revival, nestled in the heart of the Claremont Village on Harvard Avenue. They found themselves falling in love with history all over again. We knew this house had great bones, Mr. Playford said. It just needed some new skin. Built in 1927, the Padelford House has fallen into prominent hands over the years, beginning with the original owner Louise Padelford, a renowned southern California activist. The home was later handed over to Scripps College before being returned to the real estate market. Despite the change of ownership, the integrity of the homes 12 rooms remains relatively unchanged, including the original fireplace design, wood beams and built-in shelving. The exterior of the house features a textured stucco surface and a red tile roof, while an array of windows helps blend the outdoors and indoors of this oversized 12,000-foot lot. The 3,100square-foot home also boasts a detached 500-plus-square-foot guest house, perfect for an office space. While the house was idyllic, the amount of work needed to bring it back to its former glory was less so. Despite their original resolve not to involve themselves in another home restoration, the Playfords were determined to hone their dream home. Fortunately, with two historic home renovations under their belts, they were accustomed to the workload. The DIY instinct kicked in the moment they saw the front room, with overhead beams and enough room to fit a small army. You could play basketball in there, Mr. Playford joked.
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A gem of Claremonts past: Spanish architecture

om and Marie Playford have found the comforts of the present in one of the gems of Claremonts past.

COURIER photos/Steven Felschundneff The Playfords' extensive renovation of the grounds at their Harvard Avenue home included the removal of a giant palm in favor of a small lawn area as well as the extensive use of drought-tolerant plants. The home, located in the heart of the Claremont Village, features a detached 500-plus-square-foot guest house and a pool.

Many of the home's rooms retain their original charm, while the kitchen and bathrooms have all been updated.

The pool area is the focal point of the Playfords' Spanish Colonial Revival home in Claremont. The back yard features gathering areas that are large enough for 100-person parties. The homes array of windows helps blend the outdoors and indoors on this 12,000-square-foot lot.

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Tom and Marie Playford have extensively remodeled their 1927 Spanish Colonial Revival Home on Harvard Avenue in Claremont. The couple has lived in the home, which needed considerable updating when it was purchased, for 15 years. The renovation took several years and included most of the home's rooms as well as the yards.

The family room at the Playfords Spanish-style home includes exposed beam ceilings and a view of the pool area. The Claremont Village home retains many of its historical features.

SPANISHARCHITECTURE continued from the previous page

ith their initial notion of modern convenience all but gone, the Playfords spent the next three years making their Spanish Colonial Revival as remarkable as its good bones had indicated it could be.

White paint was sandblasted off the original wooden beams in the front room to match the woodwork in the library/den. The front and back yards were completely gutted and given a courtyard feel consistent with the homes style.

Original wrought-iron light fixtures are now in place across the expanse of the home, with two impressive chandeliers greeting guests upon entry. One of the most striking pieces, a floor-to-ceiling stained glass window created by artist Jane Marquis, glitters with the light on the east wall of the homes dining area. It really makes the room, Ms. Playford commented. The Playfords haven't forgotten to add their own touches. The family room wall is embellished with a hand-painted mural designed by artist Marc Traudes. A four-vehicle carport out back has allowed the couple to convert their garage into a roomy storage and laundry facility. Meanwhile, the kitchen was redesigned with new lighting, hardwood floors, black granite countertops and stainless steel appliances. The home is also a treasure trove of small details. There is a built-in bookshelf, now used as a china cabinet, in a narrow passageway leading to Mr. Playford's den, as well as a series of additional nooks lined with colorful pieces of tile. While the indoor provides its share of delights, its the outdoors where Mr. Playford most enjoys spending time. With a pool, flowing fountain, built-in granite-top barbecue and plenty of sitting space (and sunshine), its a constant reminder to Mr. Playford of the joys of living in southern California. Its so peaceful and tranquil, Mr. Playford said. Like a friend of ours called it, its an oasis in the heart of town.
Beth Hartnett news@claremont-courier.com

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How current real estate development will impact the future of Claremonts market
by Ryan Zimmerman

rospective buyers often contact me looking to purchase a home in the area. Sometimes, they are looking over a span of cities along the foothills but, more often than not, they are looking for a home in Claremontonly Claremont. As a lifelong resident, its no surprise to me that Claremont commands such a demand.

The city is beautiful, the amenities are bountiful, the feel is charming and the real estate marketis booming.
Home values in Claremont have braved many different market cycles, but the City of Trees always seems to come out on top. In 2007 and 2008, when the real estate market began its descent, Claremont certainly saw home values slipping. Average sales prices in

Claremont dropped roughly 21 percent from $645,000 to $507,000 over the course of the declining market from the peak in 2006 to the trough in 2011. While that sounds like Claremont took a hard hit, the city, in fact, held its value significantly better than our neighbors to the east, which saw decreases in value as high as 38.5 percent. Those numbers only grew worse, as much as 50 to 60 percent, the further east one would travel toward the desert communities. Fast forward to 2014, and some Claremont home values are close to full recovery, nearly returning to pre-crash levels based on average sale prices citywide. A change in the winds for real estate occurred again in Claremont in 2014, as many new housing developments are moving forward, marking the only new development in Claremont since Village Walk and Stone Canyon broke ground a decade ago. There are a total of eight new developments, several of which are already under construction with initial phases completed. Citrus Glen, a 50-unit townhome development on the corner of Base Line Road and Monte Vista, has several units completed that are beginning to be sold. Serrano is a development of 93 small, single-family detached condos and is located on the southeast corner of Base Line Road and Mountain Avenue. The old REALESTATEDEVELOPMENT continues on the next page

Residence model one at the Citrus Glen by Taylor Morrison includes a small porch in front of the unit. This model measures at 1380 square feet, is two-stories, three bedrooms, two and a half baths with a two-car garage. The master bedroom in model residence two at Citrus Glen includes a walk-in closet and attached bathroom.

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CLAREMONT LIVING/2014

COURIER photos/Peter Weinberger Citrus Glen sales agent John Laughlin, center, talks with customers Vanessa and Matthew Mauch of Claremont before they walk through the two model homes located on Base Line Road at Padua Avenue. The condos, built by Taylor Morrison, sell for between $400,000 to $500,000.

Three models are available to view at the Serrano development. The master bedroom in the 2000square-foot model features an attached bathroom.

REALESTATEDEVELOPMENT continued from the previous page Johnson Barns property on the south side of Base Line Road has been approved for a 60-unit townhome development. Construction has yet to begin at this site. Another proposed development, to be built on the southeast corner of Base Line Road and Towne Avenue, is tentatively going to carry 95 townhomes on the site. Many longtime Claremont residents have expressed mixed feelings on the development, as for several decades it has been Claremonts local strawberry patch and has become somewhat of a Claremont landmark. Heading south to the Village, the next approved development will be at the former Richs Products site on the south side of West First Street. This project will include retail and live-work spaces on the first floor, and 74 apartment units on the upper three floors. The Old School House is in the midst of finalizing their plans to develop several new housing projects, which will include the rebuilding of the old hotel structure into new condominiums. Construction has also begun on a 21-unit condominium development on the southwest corner of Vista Drive and Indian Hill Boulevard. And, lastly, a 13-unit development

The Serrano development by DR Horton is located at the corner of Base Line Road and Mountain Avenue in Claremont. There are now three models for homebuyers to see, ranging in size from 1685 to 2000 square feet. All units are three bedrooms and two and a half baths, but have a variety of options to upgrade. The kitchen, family and living rooms are all one open area in the middle-sized model, coming in at 1781 square feet.

is being proposed for the north side of San Jose Avenue, east of Indian Hill. New developments have been long overdue in Claremont, though there is some concern surrounding the volume happening within such a short period of time. From a real estate market perspective, so much new development could, in fact, flood the market with too much like-for-like multi-level inventory hitting too quickly. All of the developments moving forward are two- to three-story condos with no singlelevel units, and no downstairs bedrooms with full bathrooms, despite the high demand for such a product. This may have an adverse effect on the property values of condominiums and small single-family

homes throughout the city but, if buyer demand can continue to be as strong as it currently is and the available inventory remains low, Claremont may make it through this development boom unscathed. Only time will tell what impact all the new development will have on the overall local marketplace but, one thing is for certain, Claremont is a resilient city and will continue to be one of the most desirable places to live within southern California.
[Editors note: Ryan Zimmerman is a Claremont native, having resided in Claremont for more than 28 years. Mr. Zimmerman attended Claremont High School and then moved on to Cal Poly Pomona, graduating with a bachelors degree in finance, real estate and law. He currently works for Wheeler-Steffen Sothebys as a full-time real estate broker. KD]

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Mallows Park Our citys oldest and smallest community park opened in 1926. The little park with the tennis court on Indian Hill Boulevard and Harrison Avenue was named for the Reverend JH Mallows, a retired minister who lived to 100 years old and lived nearby. The park was improved during the 1930s by the Work Projects Administration (WPA) to include a restroom, racquet court and picnic area.

Whats in a name? The stories behind our parks and buildings

Wheeler Park Stuart Wheeler, a Claremont city councilman from 1930 to 1954, met his future wife in kindergarten at Sycamore School, just as his father and mother had met at the Village School nearly 30 years before. The extended Wheeler family has had a love affair with Claremont dating back more than 100 years. Mr. Wheelers father, Frank Wheeler, was best known for his work in real estate and with the Foothill Boulevard Association in its effort to connect the portion of Foothill in Claremont with the rest of the highway. Stuarts son, Roger Wheeler, founded Wheeler Steffen Real Estate in 1960 along with Claremonter Art Steffen. Stuart graduated from Claremont High School in 1915, followed by two years at Pomona College. He moved to Jerome, Arizona for a few years, staying just long enough to earn enough money to marry. Once financially flush, Stuart returned to Claremont to pursue work as a citrus grower until the threat of city development thrust him into politics. In an effort to connect the small citrus town to neighboring cities, it was suggested by city leaders that Arrow Highway be built through the middle of his citrus grove. Stuart wouldnt have it and, after a successful run for city

Griffith Park Jack Andrew Griffith was still on active duty with the Marines when he and his family moved to Claremont. In 1959, Mr. Griffith signed on as city parks supervisor, the same year his wife began her 19year association with the Red Cross as executive director. With a love of the outdoors as inspiration, Mr. Griffith was known for his success in securing funds to improve Claremont parks when city budgets were strainedan endeavor he continued with the city until his death in 1970. Griffith Park opened in 1961 and is located just east of Sumner Elementary School. Larkin Park Once called a modern-day Ben Franklin, the Reverend Ralph Larkin had been a minister, missionary, astronomer, teacher, lecturer and author. According to an article published in the COURIER in 1958, Mr. Larkins ventures included conducting weekly classes in science and working as a missionary for three years in Asiatic Turkey. The Larkins returned from Turkey after his wife and one-month-old son were taken ill. Both died shortly after returning to the US. Mr. Larkin, who lived on Berkeley Avenue for many years, moved to Pilgrim Place in 1927 to care for his mother. After her death in 1934, he traveled for several years, lecturing throughout the United States. Upon his return, Mr. Larkin taught regular Saturday evening science classes to local junior high and high school students. His home was said to have been loaded with charts, experiments, diagrams and even an old printing press. He kept a radium microscope and telescope just outside his home so local kids could come and view the WHATSINANAME continues on the next page

Mallows Park

council in 1930, he thwarted the effort. Stuarts grandson, Paul Wheeler, a local architect, recalls stories of his grandfathers remarkable political ventures. He was able to get Arrow re-routed, Paul explained. Thats why it jumps south between Arrow Route and Arrow Highway. This first success would result in a 25-year seat on the Claremont City Council. Stuarts involvement in city development led to the practice of building city parks next to schools. Over his career, Stuart owned or managed more than 100 acres of groves in town and also dabbled in silver dusting. After Stuarts retirement to Mt. San Antonio Gardens, he traveled to more than 60 countries, taking photographs and gathering the histories of the countries he visited, only to return to Claremont to share his travel adventures with local elementary school children. Wheeler Park opened in 1957 and is located at 626 Vista Dr.

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WHATSINANAME continued from the previous page stars. He remained at Pilgrim Place from his retirement at age 70 until his death in July of 1958. Larkin Park, which is located just north of the Joslyn Senior Center on Mountain Avenue, was opened in 1962.

Blaisdell Park James Arnold Blaisdell was summoned from Beloit, Wisconsin in 1910 to help revive Pomona College, which was in the midst of a financial crisis. Known for his exceptional fundraising skills and education philosophy, he was able to rejuvenate the college, leading the formation of The Group Plan that eventually became The Claremont Colleges. The aim of the Group Plan was to maintain a cluster of undergraduate colleges of limited enrollment, thereby creating the intimate, liberal arts environment we know today. Mr. Blaisdell and his wife were also active in the formation of the Padua Hills Theatre and owned 72 acres in north Claremont, now called Blaisdell Ranch. Mr. Blaisdell served as president of Pomona College from 1910 to 1927 and is the only college president to have a park named after him. Blaisdell Park was dedicated in 1964 and is located on the east side of College Avenue, south of Arrow Highway.

Higginbotham Park Claremonts earliest city planners would find great satisfaction in our City of Trees. Claremont hosts 23 parks in all, each designed with imagination and an attention to nature. One city park, located west of Indian Hill Boulevard on Mt. Carmel, was named for the citys first director of parks and recreation, James P. Higginbotham. Mr. Higginbotham worked for the city of Claremont from 1959 to 1973, with 10 of our parks opening during his tenure. He was a pioneer in developing fee-sponsored recreational activities in California. Mr. Higginbotham was described as an innovative thinker with the ability to foresee a citys future parks and rec needs and to plan accordingly. Credit is given to Mr. Higginbotham for his planning and creation of Claremonts now expansive activity schedule. The park was opened in 1976.

Lewis Park Ralph and Goldy Lewis of housing development fame have their contributions honored with Lewis Park. Mr. Lewis, as noted in the COURIER in 1958, began in the building and development field in 1956. Mr. Lewis partnered with Robert Olin to create the Claremont Highlands and the Claremont Cinderella housing developments. At the time, a three-bedroom, two-bath home in the Cinderella tract located at Arrow Highway and Indian Hill Boulevard sold for $16,750. Considered by many to be a visionary, Mr. Lewis felt the area between Foothill Boulevard and Base Line Road provided a location that could someday be solidly residential. Turned off by the gingerbread-style homes of the 1950s, Mr. Lewis predicted that these homes would soon be replaced with cleaner, less frilly lines. His plan to build in north Claremontthen considered the area between Indian Hill Boulevard and Towne Avenue, just north of Foothillcame to fruition after he and a new business partner, John Lusk, set out to build a subdivision comprised of more than 180 homes in the Condit School neighborhood. Lewis Park was opened in 1966 on a site donated by the builder.

Jaeger Park Chester G. Chet Jaeger was known for his outgoing personality, generosity and, as lovingly described in Pomona Colleges publication Pomona Today, His songs, his music, his verse, the limericks and, Lord, those awful puns! A mathematics professor with a remarkable ability to make courses easy to follow and fun to attend, Mr. Jaeger made sure his home was a place where students could freely stop by for visits. He was Pomonas mathematics chairman from his arrival in 1931 to his retirement in 1961, after which he joined the faculty of Claremonts Mens college for six years. Mr. Jaeger balanced academic and civic life well, serving as Claremonts mayor and city councilman from 1950 to 1968. Mr. Jaeger earned his doctoral degree from the University of Missouri and stayed on as a professor for seven years as well as teaching courses at Tulane University. He had served as an artillery officer in France during World War I and, during World War Shelton Park II, was chairman for courses in mathematics for an Former Pomona College President David Alexander Army Air Force program offered at Pomona once wrote, The life of Leonard Agee Shelton is, like College. After the war, he taught at an American that of all persons of noble character, much more than Military University in Italy. His son, local jazz musi- the sum of its parts. Home to the John Fischer sculpcian Chet Jaeger, was also a mathematics instructor. ture, the little grass park in the Village was named in Jaeger Park is located in north Claremont, west of honor of the former Pomona College trustee and longMills Avenue and north of Miramar Avenue. The time Claremont resident. Mr. Shelton was a founding park was open in 1978 and was said to be one of Mr. partner at the law firm of Allard, Shelton and OConner Jaegers greatest honors. WHATSINANAME/continues on the next page

Vail Park Claremont has just one park named for a woman, June Vail. Known primarily for her work with the Girl Scouts, Ms. Vail received the park dedication in 1978. However, the unveiling didnt occur until 1983. In addition to her involvement with the Girl Scouts, Ms. Vail taught botany and biology at Mt. San Antonio College and had previously been enlisted in the US Navy. Her association with Girl Scouts spanned 17 years, most of which were spent attending to Senior Troop 111. Vail Park is located on Grand Avenue, north of Base Line Road.

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WHATSINANAME continued from the previous page

in Pomona and worked as an attorney until his retirement in 1993. During his career, he had served as city attorney for Claremont, Pomona and Glendora. Mr. Shelton spent most of his life in the area, attending school in Glendora and then earning his bachelors degree from Pomona College in 1932. He stayed on at Pomona as a board of trustee member from 1956 to 1981, as general counsel and secretary to the board from 1981 to 1991 and as an honorary trustee until his death in 1994. He was awarded an honorary law degree from Pomona in 1981. Mr. Shelton was an avid birdwatcher and conservationist, serving for many years on the National Board of the Audubon Society and on the board of directors of the International Crane Foundation. Shelton Park, located on the corner of Harvard and Bonita avenues, was opened in 1997. Memorial Park, Garner House Herman and Bess Garner were active Claremont residents from 1925 until the early 1950s. In the mid1920s, the Garners purchased an orange grove with an adobe-style home situated on the property where they could raise their three sons. With dreams of constructing a park on this centrally-located property, the city of Claremont offered to purchase the land in 1946. Partway through settling their assets due to divorce, the Garners agreed to sell. Mr. Garner operated the manufacturing business Vortex on Indian Hill Boulevard for many years. The citys human services department was settled in Garner House until 2002 when Claremont Heritage moved in. Memorial Park and the Garner House are now home to Monday night concerts in the park, the Claremont Heritage office, the Ginger Elliott Exhibition Space and virtually every major city celebration.
Memorial Park, Garner House

Joslyn Senior Center Although he never lived in Claremont, Marcellus L. Joslyn made a grand offer the city couldnt refuse. Through the Joslyn Foundation, and an additional donation from Robert Garrison, Claremont was able to establish The Joslyn Senior Center in 1985. The center offers services to Claremonts elderly that extend from daily meal programs to tai chi and watercolor painting classes. Outside his philanthropic efforts, Mr. Joslyn was an attorney in Santa Monica. On its opening day, January 28, 1985, the Joslyn Center provided 100 meals for older people and their guests. An opening celebration was held just a few weeks later with a parade and the release of homing pigeons, all under the slogan of We did it together.

Garrison Theater As the late Stephen Zetterberg described him, Robert Garrison was a quiet man with a great breadth of vision about what might be done with local money. In 1963, Robert and Catherine Garrison funded the construction of Garrison Theater. Mr. Garrison and Mr. Zetterberg had served together, along with an eightmember board of directors, on the Claremont Medical Research Foundation, an organization that provided grants and scholarships to medical facilities for brucellosis research. Later renamed simply The Claremont Foundation, financial support was expanded to include other endeavors. It was said that Mr. Garrison was the driving force behind all of the foundations work. Large donations were given to local concerns, including the Joslyn Center, which received a significant grant to comWHATSINANAME/continues on the next page

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WHATSINANAME continued from the previous page plete construction during its early expansion. After Mr. Garrison retired from the board, the group disbanded. Garrison Theater was later expanded to include a second stageone for practice and one for performanceafter another financial gift from Mr. Garrison. Garrison Theater is now owned by Scripps College and is located at 231 E. Tenth St.

Hughes Center Former mayor and city councilman Alexander Hughes, as many saw it, was the link between city government and schools in Claremont during his tenure. Opened in 2001, the Alexander Hughes Community Center offers activity rooms, an art gallery, dance and photography studios and a full catering kitchen. Most city classes are held at the Hughes Center, along with the famous Padua Room, which has become home to most every civic meeting where more than 75 guests are expected to attend. Mr. Hughes was an affable and friendly community activist on many levels. He came to Claremont in 1966 as assistant principal for student activities at Claremont High School. He was principal from 1968 to 1975, then moved to the district office as administrator for personnel services. In 1981, he was named CUSD assistant superintendent for educational services, a role he filled for eight years until he was appointed associate superintendent for the district. In additional to his academic life, Mr. Hughes was a member of the citys architectural and planning commissions, served on the city council, and as mayor until his death in 1989. Mr. Hughes was affiliated with the Claremont Presbyterian Church, both as a member of the board of elders and in the church choir. He was also known to visit classrooms and child-centered agencies dressed as Santa Claus during the holidays. The Hughes Center, which is adjacent to Larkin Park, is located at 1700 Danbury Rd.

Bridges Hall

the All-Year Club for their emphasis on attracting new residents to southern California. The increasing number of residents, he argued, would tarnish life in the Golden State. He was an advocate for Planned Parenthood and served on the faculty of the Claremont Graduate School. Bridges Hall It has been said the love between parent and child compares to no other. For Mr. and Mrs. Appleton S. Bridges, this sentiment couldnt have been more true. Their daughter Mabel, who died at a relatively young age, had once declared that the happiest years of her life had been spent at Pomona College. That was motivation enough for the Bridgeses to donate funds for the Mabel Shaw Bridges Memorial Hall in 1916. When first built, Bridges Hall sat 800 people, with pew seating down the center rows and parliament-style benches lining the walls. In 1931, the Bridges family donated the organ, the same year Pomona had completed the construction of the neighboring Bridges Auditorium. Affectionately known as Big and Little Bridges by locals, both buildings are used for music, theater and other creative performances.
Kathryn Dunn editor@claremont-courier.com

Hughes Center

Taylor Hall Walter P. Taylor spent many of his years as a city councilman working to acquire parklands for Claremont. His efforts were successful and, paid in part by a controversial bond measure in 1966, Taylor Hall and Cahuilla Park were opened. Mr. Taylor was a Claremont City Councilman from 1960 to 1964. As an early environmentalist, Mr. Taylor often criticized the Automobile Club of Southern California and

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A jewel among schools: Claremont district offers quality, choice

long with being renowned for its trees, Claremont is known as the City of PhDs. It is the college towns excellent K-12 education, however, that prompts many families to move to the area.

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The motto of the Claremont Unified School District is Where students, learning and passion connect. That could just as well be the motto for the city of Claremont, because this is a community that loves its schools. If you head to the local Trader Joes, youll even find that each check-out lane is named after the mascot of a different local elementary school! Enrichment activities are alive and well in the CUSD thanks, in part, to the Claremont Educational Foundation, which last year raised more than $200,000. Not only does the CEF help fund art and music instruction in the local elementary schools, it also supports technology at El Roble Intermediate School and at Claremont and San Antonio high schools. CEF (claremonteducationalfoundation.org) additionally runs a K-12 summer school program called SLICE of Summer, which provides an increasing amount of scholarships for students. One of a kind With eight elementary schools, one intermediate school and two high schools, its still a relatively small dis-

The percentage of inter-district transfers is largest at Vista del Valle and Oakmont schools. Conversely, Sycamore School hosts the least amount of inter-district transfers, largely because it is such a coveted destination for district students. There has long been an impression among some Claremonters that the local Title 1 schoolsMountain View, Oakmont and Vista del Valleare less desirable sites. In fact, Claremonts Title 1 schools, which receive federal funding for certain programs because they have more students from socio-economically disadvantaged families, have made great strides in recent years by attaining exemplary test scores and offering a variety of enrichment activities along with a welcoming atmosphere. Which Claremont elementary school is right for your child? Read on and decide for yourself.
COURIER photos/Steven Felschundneff Sandra Nesbit, Jennifer Gentry and Cecilia Cerafice celebrate winning a Best BET award at Condit Elementary School. The Claremont Chamber of Commerce gives out grants each year to fund learning and enrichment programs designed by teachers at various Claremont school sites.

trict. What the Claremont Unified School District is big on, though, is choice, particularly at the elementary school level. All of the local public schools adhere to state standards, but each elementary school prides itself on having a distinct flavor. Intra-district transfersClaremont families choosing a different site over their neighborhood schoolare not only allowed but

encouraged, allowing Claremont residents the opportunity to send their child to the campus whose teaching style and ethos best suits their familys needs. Along with homebuyers, the quality of Claremont schools attracts a number of families from nearby cities. Some 1,250 students, more than 17 percent of the entire CUSD student body, attended Claremont schools as a result of interdistrict transfers in the 2011 school year.

Chaparral Elementary School Chaparral Elementary School is a high-performing site that is home to 670 kindergarten through sixth grade students. It was recognized as a 2010 California Distinguished School as well as a 2012 and 2013 California Business for Educational Excellence Honor Roll school. Currently under the direction of Julie Olesniewicz, Chaparral is known for its emphasis on academics. The school doesnt stress rote memorization, but instead focuses on nurturing critical thinking skills. SCHOOLS continues on the next page

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I want to thank Tom and Nancy for their professionalism, advise and expertise during the sale of our fathers home. Their team of contractors were helpful, quick and affordable with some of the needed repairs and maintenance that the home required prior to the sale. Consequently, increasing the value of the home. We choose Nancy Telford because of her knowledge of the area, reviews, and she returned our call in 10 minutes when we needed a realtor. We highly recommend Nancy Telford and her husband Tom for your Real Estate Team. By the way, their extremely nice people too.

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NANCY TELFORD Nancy and her husband Tom were kind, friendly, savvy, experienced, and they also helped us by sharing wisdom about C-21 BEACHSIDE BRE #01191038 BROKER ASSOCIATE the process. Nancy is well-connected and hooked us up with all the right leads, all the right people. Even though we were buying a modest home, she treated us like we were million-dollar customers. I would recommend her to any of my friends or family looking for a home in the area.
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Designed by Fred McDowell, this home was a regional winner in the Portland Cement Association's 1964 competition for its unusual use of glass and cement. This iconic mid-century residence skillfully situated on nearly three quarters of an acre, encompasses 180 degree, panoramic views of the horizon through its soaring 14foot windows. This stunning example of 60's modern architecture has been beautifully and thoughtfully renovated, blending exquisite finishes and topflight appliances, clean lines and powerful angles that have made this a one-of-a-kind home since its original creation. The many features include, an artistic blend of terrazzo tile, birds eye maple cabinetry, designer fixtures and a magnificent brass faced fireplace that centers the floor plan of this architectural gem. The master retreat, family and dining room, living room and kitchen along with the additional two bedrooms, take full advantage of the city light views. The generous outdoor space includes a pool and magically, landscaped courtyard allowing seamless indoor/outdoor flow for entertaining and conversation, while enjoying the city light views from your private deck. A true classic, modernist example of the integration of art and architecture.

Carol Ward

Ward & Ward Team

909-717-2006

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Chaparral parents are hugely involved in their childs school experience, from volunteerism to fundraising to the tune of tens of thousands of dollars each year. The schools mission is best described by its own website: At Chaparral Elementary School, we consider ourselves a community of learners, which includes students, staff, parents and business partnerships... Our students experience a balanced, rigorous, and challenging curriculum that allows for individual differences and fosters responsible citizenship in a safe and orderly environment. Condit Elementary School Now in its 52nd year, Condit is another school where a challenging academic experience is paramount. The school strives to make independent thinkers out of their 625 students and ensure that they understand the realworld applications of their studies. Principal Christine Mallaly and her staff consider wisdom to be as important as knowledge. As a result, Condit Condors are expected to exemplify Six Pillars of Character: trustworthiness, respect, responsibility, fairness, caring and citizenship. Their website says it all. We firmly believe that education entails academic skills taught in a rigorous and creative way, as well as the development of the physical, social and emotional character of each and every child. Condits school community, its emphasis on high achievement and the collective dedication to both, make it an exemplary school.

Danbury Elementary School Danbury serves 75 students with physical disabilities and/or health impairments. Known for its caring environment and comprehensive services, it is a destination school in the area of special education. Every possible resourcefrom assistive technology to specialists like occupational and speech therapistsis marshaled to ensure that Danbury students reach their highest academic, social and physical potential. Steve Hamilton serves as principal at Danbury, whose students range in age from preschool through sixth grade. The school offers the only conductive education program in the nation and is home to a brand-new occupational therapy clinic. The state-of-the-art facility is part playground, part place to strengthen bodies, hone fine motor skills, calm nerves and stimulate minds. Danbury has a special relationship with Sumner Elementary School. The two schools, whose campuses are adjoining, share resources and provide daily interaction between students at both sites. The unique partnership is a lesson in integration and tolerance for both schools. Mountain View Elementary School Mountain View Elementary School, which was selected as a 2012 Honor Roll school, prides itself on the diversity of its student body. Mustangs take on challenges with enthusiasm, as evidenced by the schools recent win of the NASCARsponsored Leftys Reading Challenge. With 100 percent participation from the students, the schools reward was $2,500 for new books as well as tickets for the kids to attend a NASCAR race. The school, which has 458 students

and is 51 years old, is currently helmed by interim principal Natalie Taylor. She is continuing the schools tradition of implementing meaningful and wellresearched interventions for students who are underperforming while celebrating the achievements of students who are excelling. Character development is another priority. Students are encouraged to make good choices and make an impact through positive leadership. Good citizenship is encouraged via monthly character words and Mustang Tickets given to students caught doing the right thing. Mountain Views website provides a nutshell description of the schools goals: Mountain View Elementary School is committed to ensuring that all students leave with the knowledge, critical skills and attitudes essential to becoming contributing members of society. We want our diverse community to becomelifelong learners who appreciate the value of education.

Oakmont Elementary School Founded in 1952, Oakmont School is a California Distinguished School. One of its key attributes is its small size. With 320 students, Oakmont staffers promise to offer a personal education that focuses on every student. Oakmont is often called Oakmont Outdoor School for its emphasis on learning through and amid nature. This focus has increased exponentially since the advent of the Oakmont Biome project. The collaborative effortwhich involves volunteers from Oakmont, Sustainable Claremont, Pitzer College and the BAM water-wise landscaping companyhas resulted in the creation of three themed landscapes on the campus. Each of these represents a natural California biome: Chaparral, Oak Woodland and Desert. The growing biomes dovetail perSCHOOLS continues on the next page

The annual Duane Jackman Invitational Track Meet at Vista del Valle Elementary School brings together students from all eight primary schools.

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fectly with an environmentally-based curriculum Oakmont introduced in 2009. Over time, Learning in the Worlds Biomes immerses students in each of the earths six major ecological communities. Making Oakmont more vital is a growing partnership with Vista del Valle Elementary School. Because Oakmont Principal Stacey Stewart is married to Vista Principal Dave Stewart, they often share resources, especially those related to sports. Both administrators are avid track and field athletes and fitness buffs and regularly welcome Olympic gold medalwinning decathlete Brian Clay to their campus as well as members of the Los Angeles Kings hockey organization. Oakmont has joined Vista in offering the AVID college preparatory program. The students involved may be young but they are already thinking about what college they may want to attend, what they want to be when they grow up, and how to best achieve those goals. Sumner Elementary School Sumner Elementary School is among the most character-oriented of Claremont schools. Sumner students regularly interact with kids from the adjoining Danbury school campus, which is geared towards students with physical disabilities and/or health impairments. As a result, they learn to celebrate differences and to lend a hand when needed. A description on the CUSD website further explains the schools unique collaboration: Students will be encouraged to appreciate their own worth and importance as well as that of others. Sumner/Danbury Schools will provide an atmosphere that will enable each child to nurture a sense of responsibility to the community and the environment." Sumner, which has 572 students, is under the leadership of Principal Kristin Robinson. Together with Danbury, the school was awarded the title of a California Distinguished School in 2012. Sumner has many impressive attributes, including a burgeoning studentgenerated anti-bullying campaign. Its library, in particular, is a haven for young bookworms, thanks to the efforts of librarian Marleene Bazela. Ms. Bazela describes the school library as a wonderland of literary love, where kids stop by for the books and stay for the ambience.

Sycamore Elementary School Founded as Claremont Grammar School in 1890, Sycamore Elementary School is the citys oldest grammar school. It has only 380 students, and these spaces are highly sought-after among Claremont residents. One of the schools biggest draws is its unique, multi-grade approach. Sycamore classes feature integrations such as kindergarten and first, first and second, and second and third grade combinations. By the upper grades, classrooms feature combinations of fourth, fifth and sixth grade, with students remaining with the same teacher, and classmates, all three years. This approach allows students to reach above their grade level according to their learning readiness and encourages older students to serve as mentors, among other benefits. Sycamore is also known for its multicultural focus, with students encouraged to learn about life not just outside the bounds of Claremont but across the globe. Each year, the school presents an elaborate multicultural festival called International Day, where classrooms transform into an array of countries. Each year, I am reminded of how resilient, thoughtful and creative people are, and how much we need one another, Principal Amy Stanger said of the global extravaganza. Sycamore is located in the heart of the picturesque Claremont Village, within walking distance of the Claremont Colleges. The school takes advantage of this proximity, taking students on many walking field trips to college functions within the school year. Vista del Valle Vista del Valle is perhaps most known for its annual Vista Track Meet, a tradition dating back nearly 40 years. On this special day, Vista welcomes each Claremont elementary school to its campus for a day of fun and goodspirited competition where lessons on perseverance, trying your best and sportsmanship are practiced. Cross-campus unity is enlivened once more with a touch of competition via an intramural sports program instituted by Principal Dave Stewart. Students compete in a rotating slate of sports such as football, basketball, volleyball and soccer during recess throughout the year. The winning team in each sport goes on to vie for the championship against students from Oakmont. While Principal Stewart emphasizes that a healthy body leads to a healthy

mind, academics are also stressed at Vista. The schools test scores have made a remarkable jump in recent years. There is also a growing environmental program, with kids working and learning in the Vista Garden as well as among the varied fruit trees in the Vista Orchards. The school is cur-

rently working to implement an associated curriculum. For more information on the Claremont Unified School District and its award-winning schools, visit cusd.claremont.edu
Sarah Torribio storribio@claremont-courier.com

Retirement Community

CLAREMONT: An Active Adult

The City of Claremont is widely known for its prestigious colleges, and also referred to as the Ivy League of Colleges of the West Coast. However, Claremont is not just known for its wonderful colleges but it has been rated #2 by Huffington Post as one of the Great College Towns to retire because of all of the great senior services provided to its residents. With a rate of 10,000 Americans retiring every day, more and more people will be looking at Retirement Communities as they transition into this next stage in their life. Here are some tips and/or questions to consider as you evaluate/research Active Adult Retirement Communities as one of your Real Estate housing options. LOCATION/LIFESTYLE Do you prefer living close to family/friends or in an area for health/wealth reasons? Do you want to live in a community with minimal amenities within a city or prefer a more isolated community that meets all your social needs and includes all the onsite amenities you desire? Do you prefer to live somewhere that is close to cultural/art events? Are you interested in a niche community of people with the same interests/priorities/beliefs? Do you plan on having one or more vehicles? Tip: Being close to family/friends for social connection is a key factor to healthy aging. AVAILABLE SERVICES Know your shopping options. Where is the grocery store, major shopping? Make yourself aware of available emergency services and hospitals. Is there transportation for residents? Is there a shuttle bus? COST A major consideration depending on amount of money you have saved and sales price of your existing home. How much can you invest in your new house and what is your monthly budget for living expenses? Remember to include all homeowners fees when making your decision. Also factor in any up-front move-in fees. RESTRICTIONS Do you have pets? Are they allowed? Will grandchildren or adult children be able to stay with you for extended periods of time? Are you allowed to rent your property? Check the regulations for potential community for any restrictions that would negatively impact your decision. TAX & FINANCIAL IMPACT Seeking expert advice now could save you thousands and improve your options during retirement. How will the move impact your tax liability, especially for capital gains when you sell your existing home or other related income. How solvent is the community you are considering? If you have to pay a large up-front fee will that be returned should you decide to leave? BE OBSERVANT. Notice if the seniors appear happy and active. Dont be afraid to ask them if they like living there. Notice if the landscaping is well kept and beautiful. Make sure the floor plan makes your life easier. SATISFACTION Does the Community offer a trial stay or a short-term lease? Read all the fine print and study minutes from meetings of the homeowner association or management board, talk with neighbors and make sure you are informed and comfortable before signing on the dotted line. In closing, seeking wise council from trusted advisors is paramount to making important life decisions. I am here as your trusted resource to guide you as you evaluate your Real Estate housing options. Feel free to call me and schedule an appointment to begin the steps to transition into this exciting new stage of your life.

DURING YOUR VISIT

Your trusted resource as you transition through the new stage of your life.
Credits: huffingtonpost.com, advisor.com and National Association of REALTORS SRES Newsletter

PAMELA BERGMAN-SWARTZ

909-636-2744

Board Member Claremont Sunrise Rotary/REAL Connections Volunteer, SRES (Seniors Real Estate Specialist), Certified Probate Specialist . BRE #01899295