Media Corner

For Immediate Release
August 25, 2005

Pico Rivera Chamber Rewarded for Volunteer Work Central Basin Presents Chamber of Commerce with a Check for $5,640

Carson, CA - Central Basin Municipal Water District Director Robert Apodaca proudly presented the Pico Rivera Chamber of Commerce with a check for $5,640 on Monday, August 22nd for their participation in the Ultra-Low-Flush Toilet (ULFT) Distribution program.

On June 25th, 2005, during the distribution event, the Chamber partnered with Central Basin to distribute 376 ULFTs, which will conserve 3 million gallons of water annually, enough to supply 20 families for a year. Roger Hartter, Executive Director of the Pico Rivera Chamber of Commerce, accepted the check at the Central Basin Board meeting.

Since 1995, Central Basin has worked with non-profit, community-based organizations and local high schools to promote conservation programs while helping them earn money for their assistance. These organizations receive funding for each old "water-wasting" toilet that is returned for recycling. The money raised is used for a variety of items ranging from purchasing team uniforms to funding school improvements.

"This program is a great one to be involved with, for all parties," said Board President Apodaca, who represents Division II, which includes Pico Rivera. "Community-based organizations can earn funding for their projects by assisting us in getting the word out about water conservation, which is vital here in Southern California."

The ULFT distribution program was established to provide the public with free high-quality toilets that save an average of 26 gallons of water per day. This translates into savings of more than 4 million gallons annually.

Pictured from left: Executive Director Roger Hartter,Pico Rivera Chamber of Commerce ; Director Phillip D. Hawkins, Central Basin; Director Olga E. Gonzalez, Central Basin; Director Edward C. Vasquez, Central Basin; and Director Robert Apodaca, Central Basin.