Author Archives: ABC Public Relations

Chino PD Seeking Owner Property

City of Chino

Chino – Chino PD is looking to find the owner of a bicycle that was collected as found property in December of 2015. The item is described as an orange Jet 9 “Niner” model bicycle.

Per civil and department regulations, information about the item must be published, after a 90 day hold, giving a seven day response period from the time of publication, in attempt to find the owner before releasing it to the individual who turned it in.

If you believe you are the owner of this item, and have documentation to prove so, or may have information regarding ownership of the item, please contact the Chino PD Evidence Unit at (909) 334-3078 – reference case number 15-11550.

Mt. SAC Forensics Team Takes Second at Nationals

By Mike Taylor

Walnut–– The Mt. San Antonio College Forensics Team took second place overall at the 2016 Phi Rho Pi National Tournament held recently in Costa Mesa, with students winning five gold medals, seven silver medals, and 12 bronze medals. More than 500 students from 64 colleges throughout the nation competed.
Mt. SAC’s Jacqueline Yu (Walnut) won first place overall and the Bovero Top Speaker Award as the outstanding speaker at the national competition, winning gold medals in informative speaking, after dinner speaking, and communication analysis, and a silver medal in the impromptu speaking competition.
Joey Fontana of Diamond Bar won a gold medal in informative speaking and a silver medal in persuasive speaking. Sarina Wang of Hacienda Heights won a gold medal in informative speaking and a bronze medal in debate.
Azzaam Siddiqi of Walnut won a silver medal in impromptu speaking and a bronze medal in informative speaking. Christopher Robles of La Puente won silver in poetry interpretation and bronze in programmed oral interpretation. Amy Jajieh of Menifee won silver in persuasive speaking and bronze in dramatic interpretation. Matthew Rodriguez of Rio Rancho, NM won silver in persuasive speaking, and bronze as part of a parliamentary debate team. Tiffany Pla of Claremont won silver in extemporaneous speaking, a bronze in persuasive speaking, and a bronze as part of a parliamentary debate team.

Matthew Dowling of Norco won bronze in extemporaneous speaking and bronze as part of a parliamentary debate team. Anthony Flores of Baldwin Park won bronze in the prose competition. Kai Vibar of Walnut won bronze in programmed oral interpretation and bronze as part of a duo interpretation team. Lastly, Alexandria Romero of Chino won bronze in dramatic interpretation and bronze as part of a duo interpretation team.

The team is coached by faculty members Roxan Arntson, Danny Cantrell, and Roger Willis-Raymondo. Since 1994, Mt. SAC has won nine community college national titles and has placed among the top 10 in university-level competition four times.

Swingin’ the Night Away!

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Walnut High students paired up with local seniors for a Lindy Hop dance lesson. Shown: Freshman Brian Duran teaches community member Leann Curren some new steps.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Walnut High students paired up with local seniors for a Lindy Hop dance lesson. Shown: Freshman Brian Duran teaches community member Leann Curren some new steps.

Walnut teens and local seniors come together at Big Band dance

 

 By Kelli Gile

Walnut—The Walnut High School Swing Club and Jazz Band joined the fun during the Swinging Good Times dinner and dance at the Walnut Senior Center on April 22.

High school musicians took to the stage to perform a set of 1930-40’s swing-era music including “Not What” and “Sing Sing Sing.”

Senior Ryan Maidment, who plays trumpet in the group, took the lead organizing the ensemble, selecting music, and scheduling rehearsals for the special performance.

“I love jazz completely and listen to it all the time!” he said.

The teens said they were a little nervous, but excited to be a part of the service project with senior citizens.

“It’s definitely not like anything I’ve seen before,” Maidment said. “It’s been fun!” added electric bass player Matthew Distante.

The multi-generational social dance was the brainchild of English teacher Jennifer Maletz.

“I’m taking a class in community leadership, and we have to create a project that meant something to us. I was a dancer and band singer, so I know that this is a great opportunity to bridge the gap between generations through music and dance,” she said.

A dozen members of the school’s Swing Club showed off their skills performing a Shim Sham Shimmy dance routine.

The girls wore black and white polka dot dresses and the smartly dressed boys donned tuxedo shirts and bow ties for the event. Not the typical Friday night attire for teens.

The local seniors were then invited onto the dance floor for a beginning Lindy Hop lesson to the classic Big Band music.

“If you want to learn some basics of swing – please come and pair up with one of our Swing Club members,” Maidment announced.

The teens quickly partnered with the eager seniors.

The 20-minute tutorial included the quick turn, tuck turn, spin out, and Charleston moves, according to junior Patrick Stephanoff. “You can learn it in a night, but it takes longer to master,” he said.

Walnut resident Leann Curren was one of the first to take the dance floor to learn steps from freshman Brian Duran.

“I love to dance! I’ve been married almost 48 years, but my husband doesn’t dance,” Curren said. So, she took up line dancing about a year ago at the Walnut Senior Center.

“You don’t need a partner!”

“This has been great!” said Richard Pena after taking a spin on the dance floor. His group of retired friends attend ballroom dances that feature the rumba, foxtrot, salsa, cha cha, and waltz.

“I’ve done the West Coast Swing, but never tried the Lindy Hop. It brings back memories!” he added.

The Walnut High Swing Club members are passionate about jazz and it showed as they seamlessly quick-stepped and twirled to the familiar sounds of Benny Goodman, Count Basie, and more.

“I’ve danced a lot of different genres, but I really like swing the most,” said junior Chelsea “Cat” Tuason.

“I enjoy the fact that it gives me a chance to meet new people!” said 18-year-old Brion Robles.

“There’s dance at school, but it’s modern and it’s very hip-hoppy,” added senior Riley Herms, who has been a member of the after-school club for three years. “It’s neat doing something fancier!”

“I think that sometimes we end up being segmented by our ages and not mingling,” Maletz said. “Here in Walnut High School, we have an amazing group of dancers who enjoy music from a very different generation, so there’s a bridge of music and dance that can create a connection within the community.”

“I am so proud of the students and the effort they put in. The event exceeded my expectations for connection and fun!” Maletz said.

Three Arrested In Connection To Terrorist Attack

Three People Connected to Shooter in San Bernardino Terrorist Attack Arrested on Federal Conspiracy, Marriage Fraud and False Statement Charges

By United States Attorney’s Office
Riverside– Three people with family connections to Syed Rizwan Farook, one of the perpetrators of the December 2, 2015 terrorist attack at the San Bernardino Inland Regional Center (IRC), were arrested last week on federal conspiracy, marriage fraud and false statement charges.
A five-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury charges three defendants in a marriage fraud conspiracy that involved making false statements under oath for the purpose of obtaining immigration benefits for one of the defendants.
The three defendants arrested are:
• Mariya Chernykh, 26, of Ontario, who, according to official records, is married to Enrique Marquez, Jr., who is awaiting trial on charges of conspiring with Syed Rizwan Farook in 2011 and 2012 to provide material support to terrorists;
• Tatiana Farook, 31, of Corona, who is Chernykh’s sister;
• Syed Raheel Farook, 31, of Corona, who is Tatiana Farook’s husband and Syed Rizwan Farook’s brother.
The indictment charges all three defendants in a conspiracy to knowingly make under oath a false statement with respect to a material fact in an application, affidavit, and other document required by the immigration laws and regulations of the United States. This charge carries a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.
The indictment also charges Chernykh with fraud and misuse of visas, permits, and other documents; perjury; and two counts of making material false statements to federal agents. These four charges carry a combined statutory maximum sentence of 25 years in federal prison.
When Marquez was indicted by a federal grand jury at the end of 2015 with conspiring with Syed Rizwan Farook to provide material support to terrorists, he was also charged with entering into a sham marriage with Chernykh in November 2014 and illegally signing an immigration form that falsely declared he was living with her (see:http://go.usa.gov/cuKEm).

“This is the latest step in the comprehensive investigation into the horrific attacks in San Bernardino last year that took the lives of 14 innocent Americans and deeply affected so many more,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “As I have said previously, we owe the victims, and the entire community of San Bernardino, a thorough investigation that uncovers all criminal activity surrounding these events. Today’s arrests open a new phase in the process of bringing to justice all individuals who allegedly committed crimes that were uncovered during our exhaustive investigation. The charges also reflect the importance we place on statements made to law enforcement officials during a terrorism investigation. Those who lie to or conceal material information from law enforcement officers investigating terrorist acts will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Acting Assistant Director of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, James Struyk, said, “Members of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force worked around the clock in an attempt to find immediate answers in the days and weeks following the December murders in San Bernardino to ensure no additional threats to the community were present. As proof of our enduring commitment to the victims and their families, the FBI and our partners will continue to pursue all leads developed in this matter to build cases when evidence of a crime is revealed.”
Joseph Macias, Special Agent in Charge U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Los Angeles, stated: “Last year’s tragedy in San Bernardino showed yet again how our nation’s legal immigration system can be subverted and exploited by those intent on doing this country harm. As the second largest presence on the nation’s Joint Terrorism Task Forces, HSI special agents, in collaboration with their JTTF partners, are using their unique skills and authorities, including their immigration expertise, to pursue individuals and organizations that pose a threat to domestic security. As this case underscores, that vigilance extends to those whose actions directly or indirectly put our communities and our country at risk.”
The case against Chernykh and the Farooks stems from the overall investigation into the IRC terrorist attack. While investigating the terrorist attack, federal agents obtained official records showing that Marquez, a former neighbor of Syed Rizwan Farook’s, is married to Chernykh. The investigation determined that Marquez agreed to marry Chernykh so she could obtain immigration benefits that were not available to her because she is a Russian citizen and did not have legal status in the United States. The indictment alleges that Marquez received money from Chernykh to enter into the sham marriage.
In furtherance of this conspiracy, both Marquez and Chernykh signed immigration documents, under penalty of perjury, that included information that they lived at the same address, when they did not.
Syed Raheel Farook and Tatiana Farook participated in the conspiracy by, among other things, witnessing Marquez and Chernykh’s wedding, taking staged family pictures of Marquez and Chernykh, establishing a joint checking account for Marquez and Chernykh, and creating a back-dated lease for Marquez and Chernykh to create the illusion that they shared a marital residence with Syed Raheel Farook and Tatiana Farook.
FBI agents interviewed Chernykh as part of the investigation into the IRC terrorist attacks, and she allegedly made false statements that she lived with Marquez at Syed Raheel Farook and Tatiana Farook’s residence in Corona.
All three defendants are expected to be arraigned on the indictment in United States District Court in Riverside.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in court.
This operation is the result of an ongoing investigation by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes partners with HSI, the San Bernardino Police Department, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the Ontario Police Department, the Riverside Police Department, the Corona Police Department and the Chino Police Department.

Historic Airplanes Filled The Sky At Chino Airshow

Staff Reports

Chino– Over 30,000 people came by the Planes of Fame Air Museum for their Planes of Fame Airshow on April 29 to May 1. The event was held at the Chino Airport, located at 7000 Merrill Avenue in Chino.

The event celebrated the 75th Anniversary of the Attack on Pearl Harbor, where they recognized the history, contributions, and sacrifices of our veterans.

This year’s airshow featured nearly 50 historic aircraft, performing for the community’s enjoyment. Performers included: U.S.A.F. F-16 Viper Demo Team and Heritage Flight, Sean D. Tucker Team Oracle Aerobatics, Texas Flying Legends, Sea Fury Aerobatics by Sanders Aeronautics, Rob Harrison and the Tumbling Bear, Gregory Colyer T-33, Granley Yak Aerobatic Team, Jelly Belly Airplane, John Collver’s AT-6 Aerobatics, and over 40 WWII aircraft including the B-25 Mitchell, P-47 Thunderbolt, and P-51 Mustang. In addition to many other fantastic airplanes that performed, there was also a special panel discussion with honored veterans. Lastly, there were Military vehicles, a ‘Kids Zone’, food, drinks and vendors!

Visit www.planesoffame.org to see what the museum will be hosting their next airshow!

Did You Know?

Can you drive blindfolded? 

Staff Reports
Is distracted driving really a problem? YES! 80 percent of vehicle crashes involve some sort of driver inattention. Up to 3000 people nationwide are killed in crashes where driver distractions are involved, and thousands more are injured.

Distraction occurs any time you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off your primary task: driving safely. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing.

According to the CHP, sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field, blindfolded. Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves manual, visual, and cognitive distraction simultaneously.

Some people still don’t know how dangerous distracted driving is. Others know about the risks of texting and talking while driving, but still choose to do so anyway. They make the mistake of thinking the statistics don’t apply to them, that they can defy the odds. Still others simply lead busy, stressful lives and use cell phones and smartphones to stay connected with their families, friends, and workplaces. They forget or choose not to shut these devices off when they get behind the wheel.

In 2008, California motorists were prohibited from talking on hand-held cellular phones while driving. A ban on texting while driving followed in 2009.  According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, all text-based communication, including e-mail and instant messaging, reading, writing or sending a text message are prohibited.  Both offenses carry $20 fines for first offenses and subsequent infractions are $50.  Be aware that additional fees and additional penalties can end up tripling the total fee amount. The convictions will appear on your driving record.  The law pertains to all drivers, regardless of age or state of residence.

There are special rules for young drivers, under the age of 18.  These new drivers are not allowed to use a wireless telephone, pager, laptop or any other electronic mobile device to speak or text while driving; this applies even if they intend on using a hands-free headset. The only exception to this new rule is in emergency situations to call police, fire or medical authorities.

The California Highway Patrol wants to remind you don’t become a statistic. Distracted driving is 100% preventable.

Straight Talk with Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Danice Akiyoshi,

My favorite Aunt is having an all-expenses paid destination wedding this summer that will be quite luxurious.  I am looking forward to this event.  I know I should take my boyfriend as my guest, but my dearest friend’s family lives on this island. She hasn’t had the extra money to visit her parents in six years and I know this would be a dream come true for her.  My boyfriend doesn’t dance and never really enjoys himself when he accompanies me to weddings. He also tries to rush through the festivities and this annoys me. When I told him that I was considering taking my friend, he said that even though he hates weddings, he was looking forward to surfing and sightseeing and that would be disappointed to miss this trip.  He seems to be taking it for granted that I will take him, but I’m not sure this is the right choice for me.  Please help me decide.

Antonia G.

 

Hi Antonia,

You give clues that show your dissatisfaction with your boyfriend when you mention things like the way he rushes you through previous wedding festivities and refuses to dance with you at these events. You also state that he takes things for granted.  I have a strong feeling that you’d prefer to take your dear friend instead of your boyfriend.  If the only commentary your boyfriend has is that he wants to see the sights and do some surfing, then he seems to be self-serving and is missing the point of the whole event, “the wedding”. Perhaps you’d like to let him know that you would be happy to join him if he’d like to plan a vacation that includes surfing and sightseeing activities.  Remind him again that the main focus is actually your Aunt’s wedding and invite the person who would be the best companion to enhance the entire experience.

Have a wonderful time.

Danice Akiyoshi ND

Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

Two Arrested For Mail Theft And Drug Possession

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – The Chino Hills Police Department arrested two people last week for mail theft and drug possession.

At about 3 a.m. on Thurs., April 28, deputies from the Chino Hills Police Department observed a white Mercedes Benz driving “aimlessly around” in the area of Peyton Drive an Olympic View. Olympic View is two blocks north of Grand Ave.

The occupants of the vehicle, identified as Tasean Holt, 19, and Martin Guevara, 36, were questioned by deputies after they were seen parking in the driveway of an unknown residence. When deputies approached the car, mail was sitting in plain view, which allegedly belonged to a residence in the 13000 block of Emerald Way in the city of Chino Hills. Guevara was also in possession of suspected methamphetamine.

Both suspects were arrested for mail theft and drug possession and were booked into the West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga.

Anyone with additional information, please contact Deputy Chris Bassett at the Chino Hills Police Station at (909) 364-2000, and refer to Case # 221601431. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at 800 78-CRIME.

“Live Better” With Clark’s Nutrition

Staff Reports

 

Chino – When it comes to health and nutrition, one size does not fit all. Just ask your neighborhood’s health and nutrition market, Clark’s Nutrition and Natural Foods Market who strive to make lives better one customer at a time.
Clark’s equates success not with size but with integrity, responsibility and service.

“The cornerstone of Clark’s market position is to provide reliable scientific information for the consumer’s benefit in making educated and informed decisions resulting in vibrant health,” Clark’s website states.

Spanning three generations, Clark’s Nutrition and Natural Foods Markets was founded in 1972 in Riverside by the Clark family patriarch, Jim Clark, whose vision of healthy living grew into what is today a 60 billion-dollar industry.

Jim’s grandchildren have taken over the reins of Clark’s Nutrition and Natural Foods Markets. Grandson Jeff Clark is president, his brother Bruce Clark is vice president of retail development, and their sister Tracy Clark is the director of finance.
Their newest location in Chino, 12835 Mountain Avenue (at corner of Mountain Avenue and Riverside Drive), boasts a large selection of organic, gluten free, grass-fed beef, vitamins and raw foods. They also carry an extensive collection of health and beauty production, including celebrity Suzanne Somers’ skin care and cosmetic line, “SUZANNE Organics.”

Clark’s puts an emphasis on connecting with the community through various in-store and local events. They provide regular free lectures on various health related topics and make-up tutorials with professional make-up artists.

With locations in Loma Linda, Riverside, Rancho Mirage, and now Chino, Clark’s Nutrition lives up to their motto, “Live Better …We Can Help!”

Customers will appreciate their knowledgeable and helpful staff. Clark’s employees undergo a comprehensive in-house training curriculum, and continuing their education “which is now accredited”.
So, for all your health and nutritional needs, look no further than Clark’s in Chino or any of their other Inland Empire locals.

Clark’s is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. Stop by for yourselves and experience Clark’s great customer service, knowledgeable staff, and affordable pricing. Whatever your health goals, Clark’s can help! Visit www.clarksnutrition.com.

Thanks Mom!

Tim Eaton

Tim Eaton

By Pastor Tim Eaton

 

How often have you heard that?  Maybe not often enough.  Even when you have heard it, the thankfulness might not last long.  An even worse reality is that kids often say “Thanks Mom” sarcastically because they are not thankful at all.   You might say that most of the time, being a mom is a thankless task. That’s exactly why we have Mother’s Day. It’s not that we should say thank you only one day a year, but it’s a reminder to give moms thanks all year long.

Don’t worry. Wanting your children to say thank you isn’t a selfish desire – It’s a character building exercise for them.  God Himself gives the command: “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you,” (Exodus 20:12). He even echo’s your own statement: “I brought you into this world and I’ll take you right back out of it.”  This is the only commandment with an “or else” clause.  Obviously, He takes it very seriously and knows just how little thanks you can get.

So picture this: You’ve done something incredibly nice for your children, which they may not deserve, but they end up being jewels and thank you for it.  How long do you have before they forget all about it?  Does it have something to do with how long they enjoy what you have done for them?

It sounds like you need a break.  And the kids need a gift that will last.  Why not bring them to Vacation Bible School at Edgewater?  You will have five nights with three hours of free time, and you won’t have to feed them!  They will get to hear about Jesus who loves them and promises, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age,” (Matthew 28:20). Join us for VBS June 6th-10th from 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. each day. Free dinner is included!

Edgewater Lutheran Church meets Sundays at 10 a.m., worshipping at Harada Elementary, 12884 Oakdale Street, Eastvale, CA, 92880; http://www.EdgewaterLutheran.org.

Game On!

Evergreen Odyssey of the mind team going to World Finals

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar—Seven Evergreen Elementary students combined creativity and STEM skills to solve challenges that have put them in a class of their own.

The school’s Odyssey of the Mind team won a regional contest in February, then swept the state championship at UC Riverside in April, securing a spot in the World Finals.

Members clinched the state title during the “Stack Attack” event by designing and building a 15-gram structure made of balsa wood and glue that held over 800 pounds.

“It’s an amazing achievement, and an incredible opportunity for these creative thinkers and problem solvers!  Congratulations, Evergreen Odyssey of the Mind team, it’s GAME ON!” said

Principal Carolyn Wills.

Third and fifth-grade-team members Ianna Lin, Annie Chen, Alexander Kuo, Alex Teng, Carrie Chen, William Qian, and Alexander Dollar are now preparing to be part of an exciting global competition to be held at Iowa State University on May 25-28.

The close-knit team wrote the script, designed costumes, decorated a backdrop, and learned how to use tools for the contest.

“We worked together, and learned to listen and to respect each other,” said 5th grader Alexander Dollar.

In addition, the team prepared for a spontaneous problem given during the challenge.

During every team meeting, students diligently practiced solving possible problems.

“It helped us learn to work as a team, to be leaders, and to make decisions under pressure,” added teammate Alexander Kuo.

The team won the top awards in Style, Long-term, and Spontaneous events during the state championship.

Odyssey of the Mind utilizes a hands-on approach to building skills, creativity, perseverance, and teamwork.

The Evergreen team is headed up by parent coaches Sam and Jean Lin, and Natasha Dollar, and everyone is excited to represent the community during the world championship.

“It’s something the youngsters have worked for all year long,” according to parent Jean Lin.

“We really appreciate Evergreen’s STEM program that provides students with many opportunities,” she added.

“Today our children built a structure that held 800 lbs., tomorrow they’ll be holding the world!

The team is looking to raise $7,000 and has set up a Go Fund Me account. To find out more information, visit https://www.gofundme.com/6cxda2g4

Calling For Responsible Pet Owners

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

It is on behalf of dogs everywhere that I write this article.  Being the proud owner of Midnight, the black lab/black shepherd mix shown with me in my photograph is truly a joy and honor.  Midnight is almost eight years old and very healthy.  Midnight and I take lots of long walks in our neighborhood and he has many buddies along the way.  Some of his buddies are very well cared for and live safe lives.  Some of his buddies aren’t so lucky and are let out to walk themselves.

I can’t believe how many wonderful dogs I have seen without tags and let out to walk themselves.  I can’t believe how many dogs end up hit by cars and die because they are illegally let out by themselves.  Legally, dogs are supposed to be licensed, vaccinated, and leashed when they are out off their property.  They should be walked by humans that can help guide them on what is safe and what is not when they are out of their house or yard.

A dog is a huge responsibility and an enormous joy.  Caring for a dog properly involves feeding them healthy food, bathing them, taking them to the vet, talking them on walks, licensing them, cleaning up after them, and always providing clean drinking water. This is in addition to sheltering them and giving them lots of love, affection and attention.  It’s not okay to have a dog or any animal that is neglected.  There have been many new laws passed to help protect animals and people lose their animals everyday because of neglect.  So I ask you to think about all of this before you get an animal.  I beg you to stop allowing your dogs to walk themselves.  I ask you to understand how helpless they are and how much they count on us to care properly for them.  Please take the time to be a responsible and loving pet owner!

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 at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. 

Collision Results In Motorcyclist Death

Staff Reports

Chino – A motorcyclist was killed last week when it collided with a vehicle that allegedly made a left hand turn in front of the cyclist.

Last Wednesday, at around 3:45 in the afternoon, the Chino Police Department responded to an injury traffic collision at the 59020 block of Riverside Drive, near Oaks Drive.

An investigation concluded that a Nissan Altima was traveling westbound and made a left turn in front of a 1998 Yamaha motorcycle that was traveling eastbound. The motorcycle struck the Nissan that was turning into an apartment complex on Riverside Drive.

The motorcyclist, Ryan Colwell, 19, of Ontario, suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to an area hospital. During surgery, he succumbed to his injuries. The driver of the Nissan, Veronica Jimenez, 42, of Chino, suffered minor injuries. Jimenez was released after being treated by Chino Valley Fire Department personnel at the scene.

Chino Police released a statement indicating the cause of the collision is still under investigation. The roadway was closed for over five hours during the investigation by the Chino Traffic Unit.

If you have any information regarding the case, please contact Corporal Trosper:strosper@chinopd.org or (909)334-3153.

History 101

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Ron Hubbard publishes Dianetics

Courtesy of History.com

On this day in 1950, Lafayette Ronald Hubbard (1911-1986) publishes Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health. With this book, Hubbard introduced a branch of self-help psychology called Dianetics, which quickly caught fire and, over time, morphed into a belief system boasting millions of subscribers: Scientology.

Hubbard was already a prolific and frequently published writer by the time he penned the book that would change his life. Under several pseudonyms in the 1930s, he published a great amount of pulp fiction, particularly in the science fiction and fantasy genres. In late 1949, having returned from serving in the Navy in World War II, Hubbard began publishing articles in the pages of Astounding Science Fiction, a magazine that published works by the likes of Isaac Asimov and Jack Williamson. Out of these grew the elephantine text known as Dianetics: The Modern Science of Mental Health.

In Dianetics, Hubbard explained that phenomena known as “engrams” (i.e. memories) were the cause of all psychological pain, which in turn harmed mental and physical health. He went on to claim that people could become “clear,” achieving an exquisite state of clarity and mental liberation, by exorcising their engrams to an “auditor,” or a listener acting as therapist.

Though discredited by the medical and scientific establishment, over 100,000 copies of Dianetics were sold in the first two years of publication, and Hubbard soon found himself lecturing across the country. He went on to write six more books in 1951, developing a significant fan base, and establishing the Hubbard Dianetics Research Foundation in Elizabeth, New Jersey.

Despite his fast-growing popularity from books and touring, strife within his organization and Hubbard’s own personal troubles nearly crippled his success. Several of his research foundations had to be abandoned due to financial troubles and he went through a divorce from his second wife.

By 1953, however, Hubbard was able to rebound from the widespread condemnation beginning to be heaped upon him, and introduced Scientology. Scientology expanded on Dianetics by bringing Hubbard’s popular version of psychotherapy into the realm of philosophy, and ultimately, religion. In only a few years, Hubbard found himself at the helm of a movement that captured the popular imagination. As Scientology grew in the 1960s, several national governments became suspicious of Hubbard, accusing him of quackery and brainwashing his followers. Nonetheless, Hubbard built his religion into a multi-million dollar movement that continues to have a considerable presence in the public eye, due in part to its high profile in Hollywood.

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

An Early Harvest

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Mark Hopper

 

Thank you for all of your prayers and support for our little garden.  Every time the grandkids come to visit, they run to the back yard to see what has been happening.

Their enthusiasm is contagious.  They are so excited to see tomatoes growing and strawberries multiplying.  They are amazed at how big some of the plants are getting.

Recently, they pulled a few carrots out of the ground.  Wow!  They looked like real carrots. This may not seem like a big deal to you, but for these young children, it is amazing!

In the past, my feeble efforts have produced a few squash and some tomatoes, but I have not had a lot of luck growing carrots.  I don’t know if my soil is too hard or if I did not water often enough.

But this year, there are real carrots – just like the ones you see in the store.  And, we grew them and harvested them ourselves!

My eight-year-old granddaughter seemed to understand how amazing it is that those little tiny seeds that we planted a few months ago have grown into these big plants and tasty carrots!

We have planted some more carrot seeds and some onion seeds, too.  We also planted some snow pea seeds in the garden.  We are already seeing some new little seedlings emerging from the soil.

However, there is a dark side to this story.  Someone or something is eating our strawberries.  On more than one occasion, I have seen a large ripe strawberry happy and healthy in the evening, but gone the next morning.  Someone is eating our berries!

In addition, I know that we will face more challenges in the weeks to come as the tomato worms and other adversaries discover our little garden.  I know that the birds and the bugs need food too, but why do they have to dine at my house?

The writers of the Bible often used examples from farming and gardening to help their readers learn.  In one passage the author says, “One plants and another waters, but God makes things grow” (I Corinthians 3:6-8).

My grandkids and I are planting the seeds and watering the soil, and we are amazed at how much God has made things grow!

Competitive Coverage To Meet Your Family’s Needs

Melanie Smith-Rice of State Farm Insurance in Norco.

Melanie Smith-Rice of State Farm Insurance in Norco.

Staff Reports

 

Norco – At the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office, 24-hour good neighbor service is at the forefront.  Smith-Rice is confident that she can meet your needs for all insurance and financial services, and promises to wow you with expert professional service.

A State Farm Agent since 1985 and a Corona resident since 1971, Smith-Rice understands the needs of the community and has worked hard to provide a palette of services that makes one-stop-shopping easy and affordable.  Along with Auto insurance, Smith-Rice provides Home Owners and Renters Insurance.

“A home is a big investment, so let’s make sure you have enough coverage at the right rate,” says Smith-Rice.  As well, protecting your personal property may be more affordable than you think.  “The average person has over $200,000 worth of stuff that is probably not covered under your landlord’s policy.  That’s where our State Farm Renters insurance comes into play,” she adds.

More important than the care of your property is the care of your family.  Along with Life Insurance, the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office can provide various types of health insurance, including Long-Term Care should you become unable to care for yourself.

And for the business owner, Smith-Rice says, “I understand the needs of a business owner like you.  Together we can help protect your business and plan a roadmap for your financial future.

As if all this weren’t enough, the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office can provide you with financial services such as Mutual Funds, Annuities, and even Banking (yes, Banking!), including Bank Accounts, Credit Cards, and Loans.

Don’t wait another minute to help ensure your family’s well being.  Call the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office today, and get peace of mind in return.  A staff of professional experts is standing by at (951) 734-5290, or Toll-Free at (888) 734-5292.  They are located at 2027 River Road in Norco, in the Stater Bros. shopping center at Second Street and River Road.

Proverbs 31 Woman

our life- cropBy Sarah Sanchez

The Bible describes a perfect woman in Proverbs 31. It describes a beautiful woman who cares for her family and teaches them about God. It describes a woman that is faithful and serves God with all of her heart, mind and soul, in addition to serving His people. A Proverbs 31 woman is described as someone who works hard and is smart with her money. In addition, the passage describes a woman who is “clothed with strength and dignity” (Proverbs 31:25). These are just a few of the many traits described in this passage.

When reading Proverbs 31, many women will strive to be this “perfect” woman and many men will strive to marry someone with these qualities. But when I read this passage, I instantly think of my mom. Of course, my mom isn’t perfect, but she is pretty close and she is truly a great role model. I believe she is a Proverbs 31 woman.

My mom cares and loves others, and she has taught me to do the same. Growing up, we would drive by a person living on the street and she would go out of her way to find the nearest drive-through, purchase food, and go back to give it to that person.

My mom is also a loving mother that has always cared for our family. Growing up, she would make our lunches everyday and put a heart shaped note inside that would tell us how much she loved us. She would pack us healthy snacks to take to school too. She still brings me snacks and lunch at work and I’m already a married adult! But she just has the gift of nurturing and loving others.

Proverbs 31 talks about this perfect woman being a woman of God; and man do I owe my faith to my mom. She would be the one to drag us out of bed for church every Sunday. Even when my brother and I went through a rebellious stage, she still prayed for us and sent us scripture (whether our punky teenager-selves wanted to hear it or not). She never gave up on us. I think it paid off because we were all baptized and are currently striving to live Godly lives. If it wasn’t for my mother constantly sharing her faith with us and believing in us, I’m not sure where we would all be.

My mom is a woman I admire and hope to be one day: both as a wife and mother. She is a strong woman who never loses faith in our God, no matter what circumstance we are going through. Growing up, I always believed she had a special direct line to God because her prayers were always answered. But really, it was because she had an enormous amount of faith and she truly believed that God would answer her prayers.

My mom is amazing and I’m sure yours is too; or maybe you know someone who has been like a mother to you. Whoever it may be, as we celebrate Mother’s Day this weekend I ask that you honor your mothers. Whether she is with you today or not, take a moment to remember all the good things that she has done for you…even if the only good thing is that she gave birth to you. Whatever it is, tell her, show her, write to her, and honor her. Because Proverbs 31:31 says, “Honor her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.”

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 5.7.16

2016-May07-WeeklyThe 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-May7-Weekly-WEB

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Diamond Bar– The Diamond Bar April 19 City Council meeting began by a proclamation, declaring April 2016 to be DMV Donate Life California month. The Council encouraged residents to register as donors on licenses and RD cards. On April 30, California State University, Fullerton will be hosting a Donate Life Run/Walk. The Council also recognized Encore Teppan as the business of the month for 2016.

During the public comments, the public liaison from the LA County Fire Department thanked the City for the opportunity to teach students at Diamond Bar High School how to properly perform hands on CPR. A representative for the Diamond Bar Public Library announced several events, including a harp and violin duet that will be performed by members of the LA Philharmonic on April 30 at 2 p.m. The East San Gabriel Valley Coalition for the Homeless also requested the assistance of the City in future events to provide transitional housing for the homeless.

The schedule of future events was read, including an Earth Day celebration on April 23; a Planning Commission meeting on April 26; a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on April 28; an Arbor Day celebration on April 29; and the next City Council meeting on May 3.

Finally, the Council approved all items on the consent calendar, including minutes from the City Council meeting of April 5; ratification of a check register totaling $1,176,416.83; a resolution adopting a restated 401 money purchase plan adoption agreement; authorization for the City Manager to purchase Hewlett Packard servers from CDWG; a maintenance services contract with DFS Flooring for the term of April 19, 2016 through June 30, 2019; and a contract to Control Air Conditioning Corporation for the City Hall server room HVAC replacement project.

Following the Council reports and comments, the Council adjourned to May 3, at 6:30 p.m. at 21865 Copley Dr.

Vejar Elementary Throws A Golden Birthday Party

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Vejar Elementary celebrates its 50th birthday, shown with current and former staff members, district administration, board members, and city officials.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Vejar Elementary celebrates its 50th birthday, shown with current and former staff members, district administration, board members, and city officials.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut—When Vejar Elementary marked its 50th birthday party, scores of former students, staff, principals, and teachers returned for the milestone celebration, eager to see familiar faces, and share fond memories.

Art Hermosillo was one of the first students to attend the new school as a kindergartner when the doors opened in January 1966.

“We had such a great time!” he said standing in the courtyard of his alma mater reciting every one of his teachers’ names, including the school’s first principal, Doug Rosenow.

“We were always looking forward to the holiday parties at Halloween and Christmas. And I remember the mobile library that would visit the school.”

Mary Trout, who taught at Vejar from 1977-2001, was quick to share her favorite memory at the school.

“It was our fifth grade ‘Let’s Hear it for America’ patriotic performance,” she said. “It was amazing!”

Truman Collins, who served as the school’s fourth principal from 1981 to 1988, said that he wouldn’t have missed the party.

“I’m so happy to be here!” he said while shaking hands of dear friends and colleagues.

The party included band and choir performances, memorabilia, and of course, cupcakes for everyone during a special open house held on March 24.

“We have the best staff and students in the world!” said proud Principal Jennifer De Anda to about 400 members of the extended Vejar family gathered at the event.

“It’s been an exciting year of celebration – receiving the state’s Gold Ribbon award on the year of our Golden Anniversary is the icing on the cake!” she added.

“I know this school means so much to all of us!” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor about the school that has a “neighborhood feel.”

“Teachers and staff are so committed to student achievement and truly care about every child.”

Vejar students left a long-lasting imprint on a tile wall created to commemorate for the event.

Fifth grade teacher Karen Montgomery, who has called Vejar her home for the past 27 years, used her talents to stitch together a collection of the school’s logo t-shirts to create a 50th anniversary quilt.

“My hope was that the gift would celebrate the Vejar family and add beauty and a sense of school pride for all that see it.”

The choir even led the audience in a special rendition of the Birthday Song, written by teacher Pam Acosta.

“Happy Birthday Vejar. Happy Birthday with cheer. The year was 1966 that kids first came here!”

Fifty years of school history was on display in the school library with tables filled with yearbooks and photos, news clippings, and artifacts from the past five decades, including an “antique” rotary telephone and record player.

Retired administrator Yvonne Sevilla, who also served as the school’s ninth principal, shared details of its rich history including the early years when the school was surrounded by farmland, creeks, and orchards.

“In the 1960’s things looked quite different at the school – there was no air conditioning, no carpet or phones. Men wore ties and women wore dresses everyday!” she exclaimed.

Vejar was built on the site of the Ricardo Spanish land grant and its logo – a cowboy boot- represents the Vaqueros cowboys who took care of the rancho during the 1800’s.

A colorful carved four-foot-tall version created by 5th grade student Mora Hanks and WVUSD carpenter Mike Bromberg was unveiled for the party.

The school’s longtime motto “Future Leaders Learn Here” was etched above a cowboy on horseback depicted on the plaque.

“It’s so very true!” Sevilla commented. “And for that, we need to clap and cheer right now!”