Author Archives: ABC Public Relations

ERHS Teacher Surprised

Staff Reports

Photo courtesy: CNUSD ERHS teacher, Amanda Sandoval, was surprised when she found out she became a 2017 Riverside County Teacher of the Year.

Photo courtesy: CNUSD
ERHS teacher, Amanda Sandoval, was surprised when she found out she became a 2017 Riverside County Teacher of the Year.

Eastvale – An Eleanor Roosevelt High School teacher was recently surprised after being recognized as a 2017 Riverside County Teacher of the Year.

Amanda Sandoval, an ERHS U.S. history teacher, was taken by surprise last month when she walked into the Mustang theater filled with balloons, hundreds of cheering students, colleagues, family members, and District representatives. She was given flowers and the Riverside County Office of Education Superintendent, Mr. Kenneth Young, announced that she was selected as one of the 2017 Riverside County Teachers of the Year.

Superintendent Young also shared student feedback from Sandoval’s application process that revealed how one of her students expressed a desire to become a history teacher like her. “There is no greater honor you can give a teacher,” Superintendent Young said.

Following the surprise, Sandoval shared: “I love my coworkers and my principal. It’s easy to be good at the job with so much support.”

Sandoval has taught U.S. history at Eleanor Roosevelt High School since first becoming a teacher in 2007. “She creates opportunities for her students to engage with history in their own community, is a sought-after presenter on topics related to English language learners and technology, and has been described as having ‘an unquenchable thirst to maximize her instruction,’” said a CNUSD news release.

Ms. Sandoval’s approach to helping students understand history includes assigning projects that propel her students into historical moments in time so they can envision history happening as if they were an actual character in the story. Not only does Ms. Sandoval promote positive praise and digital literacy in her classes, she shares her social studies lessons online with other teachers and regularly receives feedback from teachers around the country who are successfully utilizing her ideas in their classrooms, according to CNUSD. She earned a bachelor’s degree from California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, and is a resident of Corona.

“Congratulations Mrs. Sandoval! Your passion, vision, and hard work leaves a lasting impact in the lives of our students!” stated a CNUSD post.

 

Applications For Family Festival

Staff Reports

Walnut– Early Bird Discount Ends June 23 for The 2016 Walnut Family Festival that will be held October 8 at Suzanne Park.

You may obtain the application online at http://www.ci.walnut.ca.us (keyword: Family Festival) or you may also contact the Walnut Community Services Department at (909) 598-5605 and have the application mailed to you.

The following is available for booth applications:

  • Arts & Crafts
  • Business Expo
  • Community Awareness (for non-profit and community service groups)
  • Game Booths (for non-profit and community service groups)
  • Family Festival Parade

Stay Connected with the City of Walnut and be a part of the Walnut Family Festival today!

Did You Know?

How Banks And Other Businesses Can  Avoid Becoming Cyber-Crime Victims

Courtesy of Gary S. Miliefskycyber-crime

In February, Bangladesh’s central bank saw $81 million disappear out a virtual window. Now it’s been revealed that, although the computer hackers used custom-made malware, they probably didn’t need to work up a cyber sweat while pulling off their long-distance theft. The bank had no firewalls to defend against intruders and its computers were linked to global-financial networks through second-hand routers that cost $10.

Apparently, the heist couldn’t have been any simpler if it had been drawn up in the lunch line at an elementary school cafeteria.

“It’s stunning that a major institution would leave itself so defenseless in this day and age when everyone should know that cyber criminals are waiting for you to let your guard down,” says Gary S. Miliefsky, CEO of SnoopWall (www.snoopwall.com), a company that specializes in cyber security.

But he says the episode can serve as a cautionary tale for other banks and any businesses that want to protect themselves against today’s cyber versions of Bonnie and Clyde.

“Most companies have some vulnerability and it doesn’t take a sophisticated attack to cause a security breach,” Miliefsky says. “Often on the hackers’ end of things, it just takes patience.”

For example, he says, a cyber criminal can gain access by sending a company an email with an attachment called a Remote Access Trojan, or RAT, that looks like a normal file. All it takes is for an unsuspecting employee to open that file and, voila, security is compromised.

That’s bad for companies, of course, but it’s also bad for consumers, whose bank account, credit card and other private information is at risk.

Miliefsky says it’s important to go on the offensive. Among his recommendations:

  • Employers need to train their staffs.Those employees sitting at their computers each day are a company’s first line of defense. An errant click on the wrong email is like unlocking the front door, so employees should be made aware of the dangers and told what do about suspicious email.
    • Companies should routinely update their defenses.Outdated technology and outdated security software make a company’s computers vulnerable to attack. It’s important that businesses periodically review their IT operations to make sure what worked last year still provides the needed security.
    • Consumers must take their own safety measures. It would be nice to expect banks and retailers to protect consumer information, but the average person can’t count on that. Miliefsky suggests consumers take personal security measures such as frequently changing passwords and deleting any phone apps they don’t use. Many apps contain malware that can spy on you.

“Most people log onto the internet every day without much thought about how susceptible they are to being hacked,” Miliefsky says. “It takes vigilance to protect yourself against cyber criminals who are working hard to figure their way around security measures.”

Signed, Sealed, and Delivered!

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High School senior Tony DiDonato signed to play soccer at California State University, San Bernardino.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High School senior Tony DiDonato signed to play soccer at California State University, San Bernardino.

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar—Three talented Diamond Bar High School (DBHS) athletes have been recruited to play sports in college.

Senior Tony DiDonato, 17, will continue his successful run on the soccer field next year at California State University, San Bernardino.

“I’m happy and can’t wait to join the program!” he said during a scholarship signing celebration last month.

A Brahma team member all four years, DiDonato most recently captained the league championship team with one of the best records in school history.

Along with being a leader, DiDonato is also known for the versatility of being able to handle every offensive and defensive position.

“When I first started playing, I was always a forward, then on club I began playing on defense,” he explained.

DiDonato began playing indoor soccer at four-years-old in Diamond Bar, graduated to AYSO, and has played on Legends for the past seven years.

“I’ve been wanting to play college soccer since I was 10-years-old; it’s a dream!”  he said.

He has an interest in pursuing criminal justice and business in college, and maybe one day going into law. “My mom’s a lawyer; it might just fit in with the family name!”

But for now, you can bet that being on the soccer field is Tony DiDonato’s favorite place to be.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Centerfielder Keola Viloria received a scholarship to play baseball at University of Antelope Valley.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Centerfielder Keola Viloria received a scholarship to play baseball at University of Antelope Valley.

“There’s such a rush of adrenaline and emotion, especially when you play with teammates that you love. There’s nothing else like it!

 

 

Centerfielder Keola Viloria, 18, received a scholarship to play at University of Antelope Valley.

Viloria played Brahma baseball all four years, securing his first varsity start during sophomore year.

He picked up a baseball glove before starting kindergarten, and never put it down.

“When I’m out there (on the field) all worries just go away. It’s my getaway zone!” he commented.

“I love baseball! Every single team I’m on those guys become my brothers!”

Safety Connor Donohue, 17, will play football as a preferred walk-on at Colorado State Un

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High School senior Connor Donohue has committed to play football at Colorado State University.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High School senior Connor Donohue has committed to play football at Colorado State University.

iversity.

 

“I’m really excited to be on the team,” said Donohue, who goes off to camp to begin training on June 13, which just happens to be his birthday.

Donohue didn’t begin playing football until his freshman year because before that he was focusing on soccer.

But it was a foregone conclusion that someday, he would end up picking up a pigskin.

“My dad was a big Cowboys fan and we always watched football,” he said. “So, I always knew I was going to play!”

He made the varsity team his sophomore year.

Donahue plans to major in business administration or mechanical engineering.

 

 

 

 

Chino PD Arrest Homicide Suspect

Staff Reports 

Photo Courtesy City of Chino

Photo Courtesy City of Chino

Chino–On Sunday, June 5, Chino Police Investigators arrested Alejandro Delacruz, age 33 of Chino, for the murder of missing person Jorge Romo, age 35 of Eastvale.

Romo’s family reported him missing on May 28, and he was last seen on May 26, following a fight with the suspect Alejandro Delacruz at the 8000 block of Pine Avenue. The fight wasn’t reported to the Chino Police Department until June 1. Detectives issued missing persons under suspicious circumstances crime bulletin after a preliminary investigation. During the investigation, Detectives discovered the suspect had struck Romo multiple times with an unknown weapon.

According to reports, Delacruz fled the scene and Romo was also unable to be located. Witnesses were interviewed and detectives determined Delacruz placed Romo’s body in his pick-up truck and dumped it at an unknown location.

Workers in the area of the 16600 block of Hellman Avenue located Romo’s deceased body in a field on Saturday, June 4, just before 3 p.m.

With continued investigation, detectives located Delacruz hiding in a resident in the 17300 block in the City of Fontana. On June 5, he was arrested at the West Valley Detention Center for murder.

The motive for the homicide is still under investigation. Anyone with information regarding the incident is urged to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

Crime Recap

Staff Reports

Inland Empire– Ongoing operations have been conducted to ensure the safety of drivers and pedestrians to help prevent accidents. Here is a recap of the news releases from Riverside County’s Sheriff’s Department and Corona Police Department.

Norco- On May 20, Norco’s Sheriff’s officers conducted a Pedestrian Safety Enforcement Operation on Hamner Avenue and Second Street between the hours of 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Officers paid special attention to drivers and pedestrians who sped, made illegal turns, failed to stop for signs and signals, failed to yield to pedestrians, and other violations. During the operation, a total of 67 citations were issued for the following: 38 for failing to stop at red light, 25 for failing to stop for pedestrian in crosswalk, 3 for distracted driving,  and 1 misdemeanor warrant.

Corona- On May 22, the Corona Police Department responded to the 2000 block of Promenade Avenue of a vehicle versus a pedestrian traffic collision. At arrival, officers found a 15-year-old deceased body. Corona Police Departments Collision Reconstruction Team responded to handle the investigation. They believe the victim purposely entered the roadway. The driver involved was not injured or cited and the investigation remains active.

Jurupa Valley- On May 23, in Jurupa Valley, a fatal traffic collision occurred on Van Buren cross of Etiwanda. The driver was a 26-year-old male who was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was driving a Honda civic traveling south on Van Buren Boulevard, in which he veered off the roadway and struck a tree. Anyone with information is urged to contact Deputy Krusbe at the Jurupa Valley Station Traffic Department at (951) 955-2600.

Corona- On May 28, Corona Police Department and Corona Fire Department responded to the area of Hidden Valley East on the I-15 freeway for reports of a severe injury related traffic collision. A Ford Fusion driven by Debbie Ward of Norco entered the roadway and in the path of two motorcyclists, which were Zachariah Macias, 24-years old of Norco, and Phillip Borja, 25-years old of Upland. Borja struck the driver’s side and Macias took an evasive action to avoid colliding with the Ford Fusion, forcing him to drive eastbound in the westbound lanes of travel on Hidden Valley. Both motorcyclists ended up striking a Volkswagon Beetle driven by Marissa Frantz of Corona. The second collision caused Borja’s motorcycle and the Beetle to both catch fire. Both Macias and Borja were transported to Riverside Community Hospital for serious injuries. Macias was released from the hospital but Borja died at the hospital from the injuries he received. No arrests were made, and no one was cited. This collision is being further investigated by the Corona Police Department’s Collision Response Team. Anyone with information is asked to contact Traffic Investigation Clark Eveland at (951) 817-5764 or email at clark.eveland@DiscoverCorona.com

 

IE News: Reckless Chase

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy of Murrieta Police Department

Photo Courtesy of Murrieta Police Department

Murrieta– The California Highway Patrol (CHP) attempted a traffic stop on June 1, observing a silver Nissan Versa traveling southbound on I-215 with speeds of up to 80 mph. The suspect was later identified as David Brown, 25-years-old, and resident of San Bernardino.

As the driver of the Nissan Versa was exiting Murrieta Hot Springs Road, he failed to yield and accelerated, driving erratically and performing several illegal maneuvers in attempt to elude the CHP Sergeant. The driver then started traveling the opposite way on Murrieta Hot Springs Road.

CHP sergeant lost sight of the vehicle after it pulled into a business parking lot on the corner of Murrieta Hot Springs Road and Alta Murrieta Drive.

Together, the CHP and Murrieta Police Department units pursued the Nissan Versa as the driver continued driving in a reckless manner. The suspect entered a dead end area, making a U-turn in attempt to continuing fleeing officers. CHP utilized legal intervention to terminate the pursuit for driving and safety concerns of the community.

The vehicle became disabled, Brown was taken into custody and booked at Southwest Detention Facility for two counts of felony evading, two no bail warrants for possession of a stolen vehicle and violation of probation.

 

Nominate A CH Hero

Staff Reports Hero-WEB

Chino Hills– The Los Angeles County Fair is accepting nominations through July 1 to honor the selected Chino Hills residents at Chino Hills Day at the Fair on Friday, September 23.

Two categories have been made for nominations, one for adults and a youth for under the age of 18.

For information on how to nominate a deserving resident, please visit their website at http://www.chinohills.org/CommunityHero to download the 2016 Community Hero nomination form. The form, once complete, should be mailed directly to the Fair at the following address: L.A. County Fair, Attn: Shanell Fuquay, 1101 West McKinley Avenue, Pomona, CA 91748. The form may also be faxed to (909) 629-2067, or emailed to Fuquay@fairplex.com.

If you have any questions, please contact the Community Relations Division at (909) 364-2618.

 

CH Residents Invited To Free Attorney Advice

Staff Reports

Chino Hills- If you are a Resident of Chino Hills, you are invited to attend a free Legal Aid Workshop from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday, June 16 at the Chino Hills Community Center.

The Legal Aid Society of San Bernardino will be providing legal services to low income residents throughout the County for a variety of civil cases for qualified residents. The legal consultations will consist of a broad spectrum of legal issues as well as affordable access to the legal system. As a resident, you may receive help with document preparation, step-by-step instructions to facilitate requests for court orders, and help with navigating the court system.

The Legal Aid will allow residents to get help with lawful orders in parental rights, child and family support, custody and visitation, freedom from domestic violence and civil harassment, prevention of elder abuse, guardianship to provide care and access to health care for minors of absent parents, or conservatorship to provide care and access to health care for dependent disabled adults.

Chino Hills Community Center is located at 14250 Peyton Drive. For additional information about this free event, you may visit the Legal Aid Society of San Bernardino website at www.legalaidofsb.org, or call toll-free at (866) 889-7328.

Straight Talk With Danice

Buying a puppy without my permission – a Letter from Barb

 

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi

 

Q: I was out of town for a week when my mother was sick.  I came home to find a new puppy in the house.  My husband gave in to the kids when they visited his friend who had a batch of puppies to get rid of.  I am mad at my husband.  I have always said no to the kids when they ask for a dog because I don’t want the extra work.  He knows how I feel.  Every hamster, fish, or bird they bring home falls on me to take care of.  And a dog is ten times more work with walking and grooming needs.    I promised myself that I am not taking care of this dog or any other new animals.  I am already really busy. Eventually, I believe my husband and the kids will lose interest and the poor animal will suffer.  I am hardly talking to my husband.  Please respond right away, I don’t know what to do.

 

A: Feeling disrespected is a terrible thing and will greatly diminish your relationship with your husband if you don’t get things cleared up right away.  You need to have a serious conversation with your husband that determines the items that are non-negotiable in your marriage.  Adopting pets without your agreement should definitely be on the list. Your husband was 100% wrong to bring a pet into your household without you being on board to participate.  Sit down with him and present him with a list of what it takes to tend to a puppy/dog properly.  If he is willing to be 100% responsible for the dog’s daily care then you should find a way to agree and carry on with your life.  If he breaks his agreement about the care and it falls to you more than three times, get him to agree that he has thirty days to find a new and appropriate home for the dog.  If he won’t agree to being responsible for the care at all, then the same thirty days to find the puppy a new home applies.  When the kids start crying, direct them to their dad.  This situation is his creation and he should be the one to solve it.  Putting you in the position of having to be “the bad guy” in the eyes of your children is also quite inconsiderate.  Deal with that issue as well.

 

Doing Right In A Wrong World

 

Pastor Robert Jewett

Pastor Robert Jewett

By Pastor Robert Jewett

Is it possible for a person to do what is right even if the example they grew up witnessing was always wrong? Let’s examine the life of Josiah to investigate this question. Josiah came from two generations of very wicked men. His grandfather, Manasseh, did more evil in the sight of the Lord than the pagan nations that God destroyed (2 Kings 21:9-10).

Manasseh even burned one of his sons as an offering to a pagan god (2 Kings 21:6). Josiah’s father, Amon, followed in his father Manasseh’s footsteps. He abandoned the Lord and served the same idols that his father served (2 Kings 21:20-21). Josiah, however, even with the evil examples and influences of grandpa and dad, did was right in the eyes of the Lord.

If the wisdom of this world was correct, Josiah could not have escaped his horrible upbringing. He would have been a product of his environment and destined to do evil in the sight of the Lord. This view leaves no opportunities for hope. God, however, offers every person hope. Hope for freedom from sin (Rom 6:17-18); hope for a new start and new identity (2 Cor 5:17); hope of eternal life (John 3:16); and hope to endure through all of life’s difficulties (1 Cor 10:13, Rom 8:28-29). All one must do is repent and trust in Christ.

Instead of excusing sin based upon your circumstances, know that there is forgiveness and freedom from sin offered through Jesus. Rejoice in the fact that your fate is not in the hands of your circumstances, but in the hands of God.

 

Lakeshore City Church meets Sundays at 10:00 a.m. at Circle City Center (formerly Fender Museum), 365 N. Main St. in Corona. For more information, visit lakeshorecitychurch.com.

 

Apex Lawyers, Inc.

Law doesn’t need to be as complicated as some firms make it out to be!

Apex Lawyers, Inc. is located at 21671 Gateway Center Drive, Suite 108, in Diamond Bar. They can be reached at (909) 860-0342, or visit www.apexlawinc.com for more information.

Apex Lawyers, Inc. is located at 21671 Gateway Center Drive, Suite 108, in Diamond Bar. They can be reached at (909) 860-0342, or visit http://www.apexlawinc.com for more information.be

By Claire Lewis

Do you have a legal issue? Are you not sure where to go or who to talk to? Apex Lawyers, Inc. is here to help you!  Apex Lawyers, Inc. is a full service boutique law firm that strongly believes in forming relationships with its clients by providing the highest quality of legal representation possible.

Located in Diamond Bar, Apex Lawyers, Inc. is conveniently accessible by all major counties including Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino.

Apex Lawyers, Inc. provides a broad range of high quality legal services throughout Southern California.  Their attorney’s engage in the practice of law in the following fields: Real Estate; Business Law; Family Law; DUI; Personal Injury; Civil Litigation; and Immigration.

Apex believes in providing big firm results while maintaining a cost conscientious approach normally associated with smaller law firms.

Shazad D. Omar, Esq., is the managing attorney at Apex Lawyers, Inc. and has experience in a wide variety of legal issues. Mr. Shazad is a graduate of Whittier Law School and prides himself in providing high-quality services to all his clients regardless of the type of issue the client is facing.

Contact Apex Lawyer, Inc. and ask about their free 30-minute consultation to appraise your legal situation.

Apex Lawyers, Inc. is located at 21671 Gateway Center Drive, Suite 108, in Diamond Bar.  They can be reached at (909) 860-0342, or visit www.apexlawinc.com for more information.

 

 

Chair Volleyball Scheduled at Rose M. Eldridge Senior Center

Staff Reports

 

Norco– The Rose M. Eldridge Senior Center will host Chair Volleyball, on Wednesdays, beginning June 1, 2016, Noon to 1:45pm. Chair Volleyball is played with a beach ball and is great for all ages, but practically perfect for seniors! FREE for ages 50 and better!

 

Using badminton net, and a beach ball, this lively game is growing in the Southern California area. Come and be part of this fun fitness trend. It’s a great way to get some exercise!

 

Come by the Rose N. Eldridge Senior Center at 2690 Clark Ave. Norco, CA. 92860 and give it a try! For ages 50 and better! A minimum of 6-10 players are needed.

 

For more information, please call (951) 270-5647.

 

 

The Great and Powerful You

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

By Nancy Stoops

I grew up in love with the movie The Wizard of Oz.  My favorite part of the classic was when Glenda the good witch told Dorothy that she always had the power in her.  She also told her that she needed to believe in her power if she was to make her way home.

So let’s assume that Glenda’s theory is correct for all of us.  What if I was to tell you I think Glenda was not only right but really on to something?  What if you had the power to change yourself and your life?  What if you could actually obtain the life you want and deserve?  Now please understand Dorothy was able to just click her heels three times and she got her wish; it will be harder than that for you.  Your magic will begin with a newly found faith in yourself and in your capabilities, just like Dorothy.  I have found dreams come true when people begin to believe in themselves.

Please keep in mind that you are never too old to change and to grow into somebody you will be proud to be.  It may take forgiving yourself, letting go of all the reasons to fail and looking very deep within for that courage to change.  I personally believe a life of regret is much more frightening.  So look deep within and find that inner strength and confidence.  Take a look at all you have already survived and stop doubting your abilities, intelligence and tenacity.  Each and everyday put one foot in front of another and soon you will be exactly where you want to be.  Just for a moment, close your eyes and think about how great that would feel.  I believe in you and know you can do it!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909)229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy atnancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s latest books Midnight the Therapy Dog Live, Heal and Grow at Amazon.com.

 

Chino Man Sentenced In Human Trafficking Case

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: San Bernardino County District Attorney

Photo Courtesy: San Bernardino County District Attorney

Chino– A Chino man was sentenced to state prison on Thursday June 2, for sex trafficking an 18-year-old victim. James Anthony Otis, 36 years old, was sentenced to 40 years in prison.

The victim was originally from Michigan, who moved to California and met Otis and his live-in girlfriend Sonya. Sonya was the mother of Otis’ child and also worked as the “bottom” or “manager”. Bottom is a slang word that is used to describe a prostitute who has been with the pimp the longest, who sits atop the hierarchy of prostitutes.

Motel rooms were rented for weeks at a time to work out of, advertising the victim on Backpage.com, and the couple would take the victim to work various areas in Southern California, according to Deputy District Attorney Ross.

Ross said, “During an argument in Hollywood, the defendant yanked the victim by the hair, causing her to fall and sprain her knee.” The victim was treated at a hospital, “He then picked her up from the hospital and took her to his apartment.” Two days later, the victim informed Otis that she decided she wanted to go back home to Michigan. As she was leaving and attempted to walk out of the apartment, Otis was enraged. He told her she wasn’t going anywhere, grabbing her by her hair again, which caused her to fall and reinjure her sprained knee. Then, Otis picked her up and carried her back into the apartment, according to the Police Department.

A friend was called by the victim, and able to contact the Chino Police Department to report that the defendant wasn’t allowing the victim to leave the residence.

According to the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office, “This was a collaborative effort between the Chino Police Department and the District Attorney’s Office, with great support from the San Bernardino Sheriff’s Department High Tech Crimes Division,” said Ross. “In addition to the crime charged, evidence at trial showed James Otis to be a prolific exploiter of young women. His aggravated sentence for human trafficking is justified.”

Otis having a prior strike offense for robbery that was found true, his sentence was doubled from the 20 years for the aggravated sentence for human trafficking to a total of 40 years in state prison.

History 101

The Miranda rights are established

History.com

On June 13 in 1966, the Supreme Court hands down its decision in Miranda v. Arizona, establishing the principle that all criminal suspects must be advised of their rights before interrogation. Now considered standard police procedure, “You have the right to remain silent. Anything you say can, and will be used against you in court of law. You have the right to an attorney. If you cannot afford one, one will be appointed to you,” has been heard so many times in television and film dramas that it has become almost cliche.

The roots of the Miranda decision go back to March 2, 1963, when an 18-year-old Phoenix woman told police that she had been abducted, driven to the desert and raped. Detectives questioning her story gave her a polygraph test, but the results were inconclusive. However, tracking the license plate number of a car that resembled that of her attacker’s brought police to Ernesto Miranda, who had a prior record as a peeping tom. Although the victim did not identify Miranda in a line-up, he was brought into police custody and interrogated. What happened next is disputed, but officers left the interrogation with a confession that Miranda later recanted, unaware that he didn’t have to say anything at all.

The confession was extremely brief and differed in certain respects from the victim’s account of the crime. However, Miranda’s appointed defense attorney (who was paid a grand total of $100) didn’t call any witnesses at the ensuing trial, and Miranda was convicted. While Miranda was in Arizona state prison, the American Civil Liberties Union took up his appeal, claiming that the confession was false and coerced.

The Supreme Court overturned his conviction, but Miranda was retried and convicted in October 1966 anyway, despite the relative lack of evidence against him. Remaining in prison until 1972, Ernesto Miranda was later stabbed to death in the men’s room of a bar after a poker game in January 1976.

As a result of the case against Miranda, each and every person must now be informed of his or her rights

Turn the Tassels!

Walnut High celebrates 2016 grads

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Walnut High 2016 graduates enjoy speeches during ceremony.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Walnut High 2016 graduates enjoy speeches during ceremony.

 

Walnut— Seniors have been waiting for this day for months – graduation. After completing classes and final exams, members of the Class of 2016 proudly donned caps and gowns marking their final chapter in high school.

Nearly 1,400 Walnut Valley Unified School District seniors participated in graduation ceremonies on May 26.

At Walnut High School’s 47th commencement, 654 graduates filed into the Ken Gunn Stadium hoping to get a glimpse of families and friends gathered in the bleachers.

The band played the traditional Pomp and Circumstance march during the processional as each graduate took their place on the field.

“I’m excited, but a little nervous,” exclaimed Marissa Amaya, 17, moments before the ceremony as the seniors congregated in the gymnasium.

“It hasn’t really hit me that I’m leaving, but it’s starting to,” added Austin Si, one of the school’s 15 valedictorians graduating with highest honors. “Walking in tonight and seeing all the blue and white is overwhelming!”

The teens soon settled into their seats ready to listen to parting words from school leaders and peers, before receiving the pivotal symbol of all their hard work – a diploma.

“Having had the opportunity to watch and work with many of you, I can confidently say that you have experienced many positive opportunities to shape a personal pathway that will open many doors in your futures,” said Principal Brandon Dade.

“Dream big Mustangs and do not limit yourselves to one way of thinking, acting, or achieving,” said student speaker Leah Rickard. “This world is gaining 654 amazingly bright and intelligent individuals!”

Senior Grade Level Coordinator Danny Daher advised the class to find the courage to look for opportunities, even during times of struggle.

“Be ambitious, be optimistic, be relevant, be proud, be Mustangs,” he said.

Senior Doris Li shared that there are no set ways to achieve success during her message.

“Uncertainty exists so that we can stumble, take risks, and fall only to get back up again to find our own path in life,” she said.

“Dream big, but be flexible and be prepared for the plot twists along the way!”

The Class of 2016 marked the final moments of their time together with one last Mustang spell out, then turned their tassels and celebrated as fireworks filled the sky.

“Never ever forget where it started – right here at Walnut High, the place we can always call home no matter how far we get with our dreams,” Li added.

Fifty-three International Baccalaureate (IB) diploma candidates completed the rigorous academic program at Walnut High. The school also celebrated its first class of the IB Career Related/Project Lead The Way Biomedical Sciences Program, and with 46 graduates is one of the largest in the state.

Congratulations to Walnut High Valedictorians: Karim Bourenane, Alison Chang, Michelle Chang, Jonathan Chao, Benjamin Hang, Katherine Lee, Wei Tse Li, Shiyao Liang, Albert Loekman, Yuze Ma, Austin Si, Katie Sun, Derek Wan, Benson Yuan, and Maxwell Zhu.

IB Certificate Candidates: Anthony Aguilar, Maryam Ali, Joy Junyi Cai, Sylvia Cai, Biana Camacho, Lydia Cazares, Armana Chadha, Megan Chan, Adelynne Chang, Crystal Chang, En Chang, Michelle Chang, Natalie Chang, Abinav Teja Chilukuri, Celine Chong, Eric Chong, Anita Chuen, Morgan Gomez, Tiffany Gomez, Joseph Gunawan, Sara Hassan, Sriteja Kankanala, Kevin Kao, Tiffany Kao, Seo Young Kim, Brian Ko, Pei Ting Kuo, Katherine Lee, Alvin Li, Doris Li, Young Li, Nadine Lin, Giuliana Liu, Umanga Liyanage, Cindy Lo, Leroy Lu, Nikita Patel, Salil Patel, Raven Sanqui, Isabelle Thoreau, Justin Tjoa, Amy Trinh, Dalton Trinh, Vincent Tsai, Danny Wang, Tzu Ting Wei, Angel Wong, Kelsey Yim, Daniel Yoon, Samantha Yu, Yolanda Yu, Laura Zhang, and Maxwell Zhu.

IB Career-Related Candidates: Manuel Oscar Almacen, Sean Aquino, Pamella Asnata, Giselle Balanza, Tiffany Casarez, Hui Yi Chan, Thomas Chang, Fiona Cheuk, Kate De Los Santos, Mardy Lindt Fionne Diaz, Ethan Fong, Matthew Foung, Kaitlyn Fujii, Raphael Garcia, Isiah Gawaran, Ibaa Hafeez, JinRun Han, Jedidiah Hu, Daniel Kong, Sai Hao Kou, Seigmund Lai, Stephanie Lau, Dennis Lee, Carol Li, Wei Tse Li, Yun-Chin Lin, Jonas Liptak, Jude Mendoza, Derrick Moon, Nicolas Morales, Michael, Neoh, Petre Quintua, Jonathan Rodriguez, Nikita Rubio, Fernanda Sandoval, Elaine Sun, Maria Chel Sy, Jeffrey Tan, Edmund Tang, Isaac Tang, Sean Tang Wang, Emilio Triguero, Xinyu Wang, Nicholas Wen, Debby Wong, Kristen Yoo, and Gina Zhuo.

At Diamond Bar High School, 739 Brahmas participated in graduation ceremonies at the Walt Holmes Stadium. Congratulations to Valedictorians: Lauren Burdsall, Crystal Chang, Jennifer Chang, Eric Chen, Jeff Chow, Katherine Desmond, Radu Firtat, Ran Gu, Melody Guo, Charlene Hsu, Forest Hu, Ellis Jang, Jung Hyun Kim, Samantha Ku, Andrew Lee, Joshua Lee, Shana Roan, Hsuan-Te Sun, Jonathan Sun,Kathy Tong, Pansy Tseng, Jason Tsoi, Margaret Wang, Ava Wu, Jennifer Wu, Brady Yu, and Alana Zhang. IB Diploma Candidates: Kayley Marie Butler, Eunice Chung, Meanna G. Gray, Karina Kuo, Angela Song, Sara Tran, Song Quan Wang, Ava Yih Shan Wu, and Shunxing Zhang.

Water Worries

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

 

The night before we were scheduled to leave for an out of town trip, I discovered a major water leak at our house.

Previously, I had told my wife that I thought I heard water running.  We checked all the indoor faucets and the outdoor hoses, but did not see any water running.  But, I still thought I was hearing something.

Since we would be gone for a week or more, I decided to trim the hedge in our front yard.  The hedge was getting overgrown and I wanted the yard to look nice while we were away.

As I was trimming the hedge, I noticed a puddle of water in the courtyard that I had not seen before.  Where was that water coming from?  When I went to investigate, I discovered a major leak in the water main that supplies water to our house.

At first I was aggravated to have a major water problem just when we were getting ready to leave.  But, at the same time I was thankful that we discovered the leak before we left town.  Imagine how much water would have been wasted if the water leak continued for a week or more while we were away!  Imagine how much the water bill might be!

I immediately shut off the water at the meter near the street.  This would prevent wasting any additional water.  However, with no water, there were no showers, no dish washing, and no toilets in operation.

We decided to leave the water off until we returned from our trip.  I was thinking that I could fix the leak when we got back home.

But, how would we water the garden in our back yard?  We had arranged for a friend to water the garden each day, but now the water was off and I did not have time to fix it before we left.

In desperation, I asked a neighbor if we could hook up our hose to his house and run it to our backyard.  This would enable our friend to keep the garden watered until we returned.  Our neighbor was glad to help.

The week went by quickly and our friend kept the garden watered.  When we got home, the plants were alive and well.

As I look back on this situation, I realized that I could be grumpy about the fact that we had a water leak or I could be grateful that we discovered the leak before we left town.  Do you tend to get frustrated when unexpected problems arise or are you thankful that the problems are discovered before things get out of hand?

Everyone has problems in life.  The question is how we view them?  Is your glass half empty or is your glass half full?  Are you grateful or grumpy?  The way we view each situation has a big impact on how effectively we deal with them.

 

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.  Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.  For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit Efreedb.org

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 6.11.16

2016-Jun11-Weekly-COVERThe Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format:2016-Jun11-Weekly-WEB