Author Archives: ABC Public Relations

HEALTHY LIVING: Drug and Alcohol Abuse: A Growing Problem for Those Growing Old

By StatePoint 

 

Misuse and abuse of drugs and alcohol among the elderly is one of the fastest growing health problems in the U.S., according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), yet it can often be mistaken for normal aging behavior. 

 

The statistics are alarming: according to The National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, Inc., 2.5 million older adults have an alcohol or drug problem; while a SAMHSA report shows that the use of illicit drugs, combining drugs with alcohol, and the nonmedical use of pharmaceuticals, results in an average of nearly 300 emergency room visits nationwide each day for those aged 65 and older. 

 

Despite these disturbing trends, substance abuse among the elderly often goes unrecognized and untreated. According to “The Tough Talk: Aging Parents and Substance Abuse,” a new survey commissioned by WellCare Health Plans, Inc., adult children of elderly parents know very little about the drugs and alcohol their parents consume, and three-quarters say it’s possible that they may not even know if their parent had a substance abuse problem, likely mistaking the signs — such as slurred speech, dozing off and confusion — for normal behaviors of aging. 

 

“While family members may not feel equipped to identify an abuse problem, they are often the ones who can best spot changes in behaviors that could indicate one exists,” said Kevin Middleton, Psy.D., vice president, behavioral health, WellCare. “Given the serious consequences that overuse or abuse of drugs and alcohol can have on seniors, it’s important to look for those signs and also ask questions that will help determine if and what kind of help is needed.” 

 

Dr. Middleton advises those with aging loves ones to be aware of the following. 

 

  • Life Changes Can Trigger Abuse: Retirement, the death of a spouse or dear friend, the loss of a pet and other significant life events, are times when the elderly are most likely to begin misusing or abusing drugs and alcohol.

 

  • Signs of a Potential Problem: Many older people will hide their problem out of shame, and while substance abuse can mimic symptoms of other diseases, always consider the possibility of abuse if there are any major changes in behaviors, such as loss of interest in hobbies, activities or socializing, as well as changes in appetite and sleeping habits. Other signs to be aware of are noticeable memory loss, slurred speech and confusion.

 

  • Asking Questions is the First Step: At times when loved ones appear sober and alert, start asking questions about their use of drugs and alcohol and if they think they have a problem. Speak frankly about your concerns and the risks of substance abuse, but also be sympathetic to the difficulties with which they’re dealing.

 

  • Seek Help: If you do suspect a substance abuse problem, contact his or her health care provider and discuss the best approach to getting appropriate treatment.

 

For more tips and information on managing substance abuse for aging parents, visit WellCare’s blog at tinyurl.com/ycu6e7g2. 

 

Identifying substance abuse can be challenging, particularly when it comes to the elderly. However, addressing the issue quickly is critical. If you’ve detected signs of a problem, start by asking the right questions. 

New Best Buy policy; CD’s will no longer be sold in stores

Joel Chavez 

Best Buy announces that as of July 1st they will no longer be selling CD’s in stores. Best Buy has already informed its music suppliers that they will not have any CD’s in stock in the stores. The new era of streaming music from phones has removed CD’s from their place. 

Best Buy announces to consumers the end of the CD era. Best Buy announced on February 1 that as of July 1 they will no longer be selling CDs in stores. A new era of streaming music from Smartphones has pushed CD’s aside. 

Ed Christman from Billboard was quoted as saying, “Best Buy has already informed its music suppliers that their services will no longer be required by July of this year. The decision to drop CDs follows an 18.5 percent decline in music CD sales in 2017.  

The rise of streaming music services such as Apple Music, Spotify, and Pandora, as well as the availability of digitally downloadable tracks and albums, are rendering the CD extinct. Many companies that manufacture CD players like Sony, Panasonic, and Yamaha, are starting to produce significantly less CD players due to low revenue. According to Best Buy vinyl will continue to be sold, but that’s only guaranteed for the next two years due to a commitment made to vendors. 

With the rise of streaming media services, eventually they will even releasing be releasing their own physical copies of new music, movies, and TV shows. Don Lugo student Orlando Robles’18 says, “When I was a little boy I used to love hearing music from my dad’s CD player but now that technology has advanced I like to listen to my own music through Spotify with my phone.” Best Buy’s products of CD’s, DVD’s, and Blu-ray DVD’s won’t disappear altogether for their consumers, but will only be available for purchase online for consumers. 

Target is trying a different tactic; instead of getting rid of CDs completely, it wants music and movies to be sold on a consignment basis. Target would only pay for an individual CD or DVD once it is scanned and sold to a customer. It seems likely Target’s plan will be rejected and ultimately that could push it to follow Best Buy and stop selling music CDs altogether, and possibly even DVDs. 

New Principals Appointed in Walnut Valley

By Kelli Gile 

Walnut— The Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees recently appointed two familiar faces as new school leaders.  

Whitney Prenger has been named principal at Vejar Elementary and Amy Smith is principal at Suzanne Middle School.  

Both longtime WVUSD administrators have served as interim principals for several months. 

Prenger brings 12 years of educational experience in her new role as principal.  

Prior to joining the staff at Vejar Elementary for the 2017-2018 school year, she served as instructional dean at Diamond Bar High School for two years.   

She was also lead teacher for the Pathways Communication Academy and pep advisor at Diamond Bar High. 

Prenger taught summer school at South Pointe Middle School for two years and began her career in education at the elementary level, teaching at Westhoff, C.J. Morris, and Castle Rock. 

She earned a bachelor’s degree from California State University, Long Beach and master’s degree from Whittier College. 

“Becoming a Vaquero this year has been such a joy!” Prenger said. 

“Vejar is a special school that values the spirit of students, staff, teachers, parents, and the community. I am excited to be a part of this school and look forward to many years together. Vejar values, every student, every day!” 

Prenger succeeds Jennifer De Anda who accepted a position as Coordinator of State and Federal Programs in Riverside Unified School District. 

Smith brings over 16 years of educational experience to her new role as principal at Suzanne Middle School. 

She served as the school’s assistant principal since August 2014 before being named interim principal in November. 

Before that, she was a teacher at Vejar Elementary and Quail Summit Elementary for eight years. 

She was also an elementary teacher at Vineyard STEM in the Ontario-Montclair Unified School District and Barfield Elementary and Simons Middle School in the Pomona Unified School District. 

Smith earned a bachelor’s degree from California Polytechnic University, Pomona, master’s degree from University of La Verne, and doctoral degree from University of La Verne. 

“I am so honored to be Principal at Suzanne Middle School!” said Smith. 

“I have loved my time as Assistant Principal and look forward to continuing to serve our students, staff, and parents. We have a wonderful school, rich in tradition and community. I am so proud to be a Challenger!” 

Smith succeeds Les Ojeda who accepted a position of Assistant Director of EL Services in San Bernardino Unified School District.

Riverside County Sheriff’s That Thwarted Norco College Attack Is Honored

By Anthony Saude

Norco – The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department team, who were responsible for thwarting an attack on Norco College, were honored by the Norco City Council. The forward thinking team used creative methods to stop the attack before the suspect could even start it.

All together there were about 20-30 people who worked for 18 hours straight on February 19 to identify and locate the suspect before his planned plot was able to be carried out. Deputies assigned to the Norco and Jurupa Valley stations, as well as Assistant Sheriff Joseph Cleary, Capt. Daniel Hedge, Norco station Lt. Eric Briddick and dispatcher Jennifer Hall along with other deputies assigned to the Norco and  Jurupa Valley stations were all part of the team.

The team was praised for some serious out-of-the-box thinking by members of the department that helped identify the people that were going to cause harm. The City Council members presented the sheriff’s employee’s with certificates of appreciation.

It was reported that Mayor Ted Hoffman said, “This is the least we do for the fine job you guys did on this matter. “We appreciate what you guys have done here.”

Riverside County Sheriff’s Department adamantly declined to describe the methods used by this team to thwart the attack. They also declined to allow Hall to be interviewed because the investigation is still ongoing.

On February 19, investigators tracked threats made on the Facebook page of Jacob Ryan McBain, 27, of Norco. He was arrested two days later at his Trail Street Home. Reports show that handguns and an assault rifle were seized from the residence.

McBain has been charged with conspiracy to commit murder, two counts of making criminal threats, possession of an assault weapon, two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and three counts of illegally possessing ammunition. McBain plead  not guilty to all charges and is due back in court this month.

McBain’s social media accounts were then used to identify an alleged co-conspirator, Tarence Michael Thomas, 25, of Milwaukie, Oregon. Thomas was arrested on February 28; he faces one count of conspiracy to commit murder. He is currently awaiting extradition from Oregon.

Investigators then used McBain’s social media accounts to identify who they said was a co-conspirator, Tarence Michael Thomas, 25, of  Milwaukie, Oregon. He was arrested on Feb. 28 and faces one count of conspiracy to commit murder. He is awaiting extradition from Oregon.

 

City Council Reviews City’s Long-Term Financial Outlook

Staff Reports 

Norco – At a public Study Session on April 4, 2018, the Norco City Council received a presentation from staff regarding the long-term financial outlook of the City’s General Fund and various Capital Project Funds used for the construction, replacement and maintenance of City streets, trails, buildings, parks and parking lots. The video recording of the Study Session can be viewed here (https://bit.ly/2v13n2l). 

The presentation included a 10-year projection of revenues and expenditures for the City’s General Fund. The General Fund is the City’s primary operating fund and is the source of monies used to pay for public safety services, including police and fire, as well as park operations and maintenance, building maintenance, planning, building safety inspections, animal control, senior programs, general City administration and other expenditures of the City with no dedicated revenue source. In addition to the financial forecast for the General Fund, staff provided a 20-year infrastructure funding needs projection for streets, trails, buildings, parks and parking lots. A copy of the presentation can be viewed on the City’s website here (https://bit.ly/2HckXFI). 

While the City’s General Fund “rainy day” reserve amount currently stands at over $10 million, the financial forecast estimates that this amount will be depleted by fiscal year 2021-2022 if appropriate actions are not taken to eliminate the projected “structural operating budget deficit” in the General Fund. The anticipated deficit is due to expenditures, especially public safety costs, growing at a faster rate than the rate of growth for tax and other revenue receipts. The presentation outlined various previous actions taken by the City Council to reduce expenditures and enhance existing revenues. These previous expenditure reduction actions included contracting fire and emergency medical services, increasing pension and medical cost contributions by employees, and eliminating the motorcycle traffic enforcement program. The presentation also highlighted previous actions to improve revenue receipts through aggressive economic development. These efforts have resulted in the development of new retail establishments, Silver Lakes, hotels and other projects. 

While these efforts will continue in the future, Mayor Hoffman remarked that these measures will not be sufficient to generate the revenues needed to maintain current service levels and fund the replacement of City infrastructure. The 20-year forecast for infrastructure estimates that the City will need over $5 million in new revenues annually to protect investments in infrastructure and maintain the equestrian lifestyle that is cherished by Norco residents. Subsequently, in the coming weeks, the documents necessary to place a revenue measure on the November 2018 ballot for voters’ consideration will be presented to the City Council for action. Additional information will be posted on the City’s website as it becomes available. 

Inland Christian Home: Quality Environment For Seniors

Photo Caption: Inland Christian Home offers a community that assists seniors in many ways. They are located at 1950 S. Mountain Ave. in Ontario. For more info call 909-983-0084 or visit http://www.ichome.org.

Staff Reports

Ontario- Inland Christian Home, was founded by a number of local churches and began providing services in 1978. The primary mission of the community is a reflection of the heritage of its founders: to provide quality affordable individualized careto seniors in a Christian environment, it’s a place you can feel right at home. The community’s non-profit status promotes this mission as there are no owners who profit from its operation and all the revenues received are reinvested into the operations of the facility. As the baby boomer generation continues to age, it is important to know they have options. The aging process is not always an easy one and, at times requires the assistance of others. Inland Christian Home offers a community that assists in many ways. Its primary mission is to provide quality, affordable, individualized care to seniors in a Christian environment, making it a place you can feel right at home. Inland Christian Home, being licensed as a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) through the Department of Social Services, provides many different levels of care which include Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Adult day care, Skilled Nursing and Rehab and Custodial Home care Services. The availability of diffe rent levels of care and service arrangements on the same grounds, offers seniors very unique advantages. Our philosophy is to encourage our residents to live as independently as possible at the lowest level of care. Our residents’ individual needs and desires are always considered in the arrangement of these services. We want Inland to be their home, not the facility in which they live, where all are treated as individuals and they participate and are given choices in how they live. The availability of different levels of care and service arrangements on the same grounds offers residents some very unique advantages. Residents can continue to reside at the community even though their abilities may change. Resident and their families have the comfort in knowing that their needs will be met. Inland Christian Home is a close-knit community that promotes the maintaining of social relationship residents have with other residents, friends, and family. Inland Christian Home also provides services to those who prefer to stay in their own homes. Custodial Home Care services make it possible by providing assistance with housekeeping, cooking, shopping, meal preparation, bathing, and dressing through educated caregivers. Inland Christian Home is here to promote aging in place, and gives seniors the ability to live at the lowest level of care even though their abilities change and their families have the comfort in knowing their needs will be met; making it a place you can feel right at home.

Humor Me

By Rob Norris

 2 Corinthians 4:5 We do not preach about ourselves. We preach about Jesus Christ. We say that he is Lord. And we serve you because of him.

It’s always dangerous to make assumptions. I am reminded of the businesswoman who found herself with an extra hour of airport down time. She bought a magazine, a coffee and a small package of cookies, preparing to pass the time as best she could in the crowded waiting area.

Absorbed in her reading, she reached over and picked up a cookie to nibble on. To her great surprise, a stranger two seats over reached into the same packet and began eating the second cookie. Stunned, she tried to ignore it. Only after 20 more quiet minutes did she reach in to take the third cookie. The stranger took the fourth. Then he picked up the near-empty package and sarcastically asked, “Would you like the last one?” Infuriated, she marched off in a huff to the airline gate, reached into her bag for her boarding pass . . . and found her unopened package of cookies! Her anger had been based on a wrong assumption.

Some assumptions are much more dangerous than that.  For example some may never have actually taken the step of faith to surrender their life to Jesus Christ. You may have the wrong assumption that your good works will get you into heaven.

You can change that at this moment. Jesus Christ, who lived a perfect life, died on a cross to pay the divine penalty for your sins and was raised to life to defeat death forever, is as near as your next breath. He offers eternal life to you in His open hands.

If you are not sure you are a follower of Christ, if you’ve never received His gift of salvation, you can confess your sins to Him right now and, through faith in Him, receive His forgiveness and ask Him to become Lord of your life?

Live it
Share your experience of coming to faith in Christ. Who are some people you know who need the gift of salvation that Christ offers?

Pray
If you aren’t sure where you will spend eternity, pray in faith right now and receive Christ as your Savior and Lord.

Meeting @ 10:00 at River Heights Intermediate School 7227 Scholar Way, Eastvale CA.

Trusting and believing with you.

Pastor Rob

 

Wanna Get Away? AAA Travel Has Your Ticket

By Anthony Saude

I had always wanted to be an AAA member, if for nothing else, so I didn’t have to go to the DMV and stand in line for hours on end just to register my car. When I walked into the office I was delighted to see that they offered so many other services that I could take advantage of. It just so happened that my family was planning a vacation. I decided to stay around and spend a little more time learning about all of the services my membership would allow me. Everybody knows about or has heard about AAA Automobile Club DMV services and roadside assistance if your car breaks down on the side of the road and those are great things to have. You might even know that they have maps and discounts for all your travel needs but did you know that they have a full service travel agency as well? “AAA travel is a full service Travel Agency which offers personalized service to members and non-members for all of their travel needs,” says Diamond Bar branch manager, Beth Planavsky. Whether you want to embark on a weekend staycation, a cross-country road trip, or an excursion to the other side of the globe, “Our travel agents are very experienced and knowledgeable about all travel destinations,” said Beth. Where ever your plans take you, a personal travel agent will be assigned to you to make sure you get a customized once in a lifetime vacation experience. From taking your passport photo, to planning your itinerary step by step, to making sure that you take advantage of the full spectrum of discounts that are available to you along the way, AAA travel has your back. Members can also access a variety of travel resources including vacation guides and free maps for your domestic travel needs. Beth said, “Providing legendary service to our members is our number one goal here at the Diamond Bar Branch.” With all the AAA discounts that you get, the personalized service and Beth with her 30 years of experience in the industry a visit to the Diamond Bar Branch makes sense. When you are there you might as well check out all of the other services that AAA has to offer as well, like we said they are a “one stop shop.”Visit the Travel Agency at the Automobile Club of Southern California Diamond Bar office located in the Country Hills Towne Center. 2843 S. Diamond Bar Blvd, Diamond Bar, CA 91765 on the corner of Diamond Bar Blvd and Fountain Springs 909-444-029 serving Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and Pomona.

Planes of Fame Air Show

Photo Courtesy: PlanesofFame.org

STAFF REPORTS

Chino – Look to the skies on the weekend of May 5 and 6 between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. and watch all your favorite Planes of Fame as they soar through the skies at the Chino Airport. This year’s air show will be featuring over 40 historic aircraft, including P-47 Thunderbolts, P-38 Lightnings and P-51 Mustangs flying for your enjoyment. We invite you to join us in honoring the history, contributions, and sacrifices of our Veterans.
Performers include: A-10 Thunderbolt and Heritage Flight; Sean D. Tucker Team Oracle Aerobatics; World’s fastest piston engine aircraft P-51 Mustang Voodoo; N9MB Flying Wing Demo; Pacific, European, Korean & Vietnam Flight Displays, Sanders Sea Fury Aerobatics, Gregory

Photo Courtesy: PlanesofFame.org

‘Wired’ Colyer T-33 Aerobatics and Rob Harrison the Tumbling Bear.

In addition to many other fantastic airplanes that will be performing and on static display, there will be a special panel discussion with some of our honored Veterans.

Follow our Planes of Fame Air show Facebook page to receive up to the minute news on Performers and attending Aircraft and Veterans!

This is an incredible event whether you are an aircraft enthusiast, or just looking to enjoy an amazing day.

The gates will open at 8 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, with the flying show running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Static displays and vendors will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with special merchandise and delicious food and beverages available. See all your favorite airplanes fly!

There will be a Kids Zone, static displays, food & vendors, and more!
SAVE $5 ORDER TICKETS ONLINE! (Hurry! Limited Time Offer)

Free Admission Kids 11 Years & Under, General $25 FREE PARKING! (Preferred Parking $17.50) FOR INFO AND TICKETS GO TO http://www.planesoffame.org

The airport and museum are located at 7000 Merrill Avenue, in Chino.

 

5 Ways to Celebrate Earth Day

By StatePoint

 

April 22 is Earth Day, an annual opportunity to celebrate the natural world and get involved in short- and long-term efforts to protect the environment. Here are five ways to celebrate.

 

  1. Volunteer. Many neighborhoods and communities around the country host volunteer clean-ups to honor Earth Day. Find one in your area or organize your own: gather some friends, some sturdy garbage bags and pairs of work gloves, and head out to a park or the shore of a local waterway for a clean-up.

 

  1. Enjoy nature. Get outside and enjoy nature. Even if you aren’t an experienced hiker, there are plenty of tools to make getting outdoors easy, such as wearable tech, which can support your adventure. One option is Casio’s ProTrek PRW3510Y-8, which has triple sensor technology, including a compass, thermometer, altimeter and barometer, allowing you to track your surroundings as you explore them. Featuring Tough Solar Power, it can be charged by sunlight or florescent light, making it an eco-friendly choice.

 

  1. Plant a tree. Trees provide shade and food for people and a habitat for birds and other wildlife. What’s more, they produce oxygen for people to inhale, as well as sequester CO2. Trees also reduce polluting runoff by intercepting water. In short, we need trees! Celebrate Earth Day by planting one. Each year, you can watch it mature and grow.

 

  1. Reduce waste. The land and ocean have become saturated with plastics and other trash. Get into the habit of reducing waste by recycling and reusing items as much as possible. Take a look at the footprint you create with your plastic consumption and find ways to improve your habits. Bring a reusable bag to the grocery store. Buying a drink? Don’t use a straw. Getting takeout? Ask the restaurant to hold the plastic silverware.

 

  1. Update your technologies. Outdated tech often contains harmful elements that can hurt the environment, such as lead paint or mercury. Check out newer models that meet international standards like The Minamata Convention on Mercury. For example, Casio Lampfree Projectors combine a laser, a fluorescent element and LED light to deliver a hybrid light source that lasts up to 20,000 hours while sustaining a high brightness. Because these projectors are mercury-free, it removes the need to replace hazardous and expensive bulbs.

 

This Earth Day, celebrate a healthy planet with environmental stewardship at-home and in your community.

 

 

Eastvale is the Most Diverse City in So Cal

Photo: Dynamic.podbean.com

By Anthony Saude

 

Eastvale – We Americans love to boast about our diversity and California can be heard above all other claiming the title of most diverse. It is a very prestigious title indeed when you really look into what diversity can mean to a community. Different cultures, languages, ideas and experiences naturally will produce more new innovative information than homogeneous.

The City of Eastvale, a young community nestled in the Inland Empire, looks like it is growing up in the right environment to be a successful community for decades to come. Eastvale is among one of the most diverse cities in America, according to an analysis by NerdWallet.com of the distribution of residents across ethnic groups.

Eastvale was ranked as the #1 most diverse city in all of Southern California and the 13th most diverse city in America. The diversity of the Eastvale community breaks down as follows: 38.6% Hispanic or Latino, 25.30% Asian or Pacific Islander, 24.20% are white (non-Hispanic) and 9.70% are Black (non-Hispanic).

This is great news for the Eastvale.  According to studies and research, diversity breeds a more robust and resilient economy. There’re a lot of different groups of people with vastly different experiences, talents and ideas available to contribute to the advancement of the community. Living in a multicultural society forces you to get out of your comfort zone and learn things about other people you would otherwise have to travel out of country to learn.

One thing Californian’s learned a long time ago is that there are many intellectual and personal benefits that come from learning another language. When you live in a multilingual society you will be encouraged to take on this challenge.

When you couple this information with the fact that Eastvale has the highest median household income in the Inland Empire and one of the highest in the state, you have a recipe for success. Eastvale was also just recently voted as one of the top 100 safest cities in America.

It seems like Eastvale is growing faster than ever but it looks like that growth has been well thought out and is progressing in the right direction. With everything going on  in our country, Eastvale just keeps hitting positives goals and making  positive lists. If you are looking for a place to live, work and raise a family, go ahead and put Eastvale on your short list and contact your real estate agent.

Motorcyclist Killed, Corona Man Arrested

By Anthony Saude

Corona – A Corona man was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence when he collided with a motorcyclist early Sunday morning. The collision on the westbound 60 Freeway in Jurupa Valley left the motorcyclist, a Menifee resident, dead, the California Highway Patrol said Monday, April 2.

Tonga Tavake, 59, died at the scene of the accident on the freeway just west of Valley Way, the Riverside County Coroner said Monday. Tavake was struck by several passing motorists as he lay motionless on the pavement, the CHP incident log reported.

The initial call that went out for the 4:07 a.m. crash was that a 2006 Volkswagen had collided with a center divider. Only a few minutes later, a report of a motorcyclist down in the No. 1 (fast) lane of the freeway in the same area came across the radio, according to CHP reports. Later it was learned that the collision involved both the motorcycle, and the Volkswagen from the earlier report. The motorcycle rider had been ejected from the motorcycle, the Monday report said.

The driver of the Volkswagen, identified as a 24-year-old Wilson Mayora Jr. of Corona, was arrested on suspicion of felony driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter. He remained in custody Monday night at the Robert Presley Detention Center in Riverside.

The accident remains under investigation; anyone with information about it is encouraged to contact the Riverside California Highway Patrol Accident Investigation Unit at (951) 637-8000.

FREE Sustainable Gardening Workshop

By Anthony Saude

Diamond Bar – The City of Diamond Bar is hosting a FREE Sustainable Gardening Workshop on Saturday, April 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:0a.m. The free Basic Composting Workshop will provide instructions on composting, worm composting, and water-wise gardening including a selection of drought tolerant plant.

California is either just starting a drought, in the middle of a drought or the last drought just ended but one way or another we are always in a drought. This can become a real problem and has even led to laws being changed and penalties being handed out. If we want to be a responsible California resident then we should always be learning new ways to conserve water and use our natural resources.

The City wants to invite residents to participate and learn about the plant combinations that require less water and add more color to your garden. Compost bins will be available for purchase at a discounted price of $45 for this event. Worm compost bins will also be available for the discounted price of $65. The FREE composting workshop will take place at the AQMD – West parking lot located at 21865 Copley Drive.

The workshop is OPEN to ALL Los Angeles County residents; however space is limited so pre registration is suggested. To register send an email to greendb@diamondbarca.gov, be sure to include your name and phone number or call the City’s Environmental Services Division at 909-839-7015.

Former Surgeon General to Speak at Mt. SAC Health Conference

Staff Reports

 

WALNUT–– Dr. Richard Carmona, the 17th Surgeon General of the United States, will be the keynote speaker at Mt. San Antonio College’s 12th Annual Health Professions Conference on Friday, May 4, from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., at various locations on campus. Sponsored by the Mt. SAC Caduceus Club, the Health Professions Conference is open to the public and geared toward students interested in careers in the health and medical fields.

Appointed by President George W. Bush in 2002, Carmona served as Surgeon General until his term expired in 2006. As Surgeon General, he released a landmark report on the health effects of secondhand smoke. Throughout his life, he has served in various positions in the medical field, including as a paramedic, registered nurse, and physician. He has served as chairman of the Arizona Southern Regional Emergency Medical System, CEO for the Pima County health care system, and was a professor of medicine at the University of Arizona. He worked as a deputy sheriff for the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and served as medical director of the county’s police and fire departments. In 2012, he ran for a U.S. Senate seat in Arizona.

More than 800 participants are expected at the 12th Annual Health Professions, which will feature will feature workshops, interactive demonstrations, focus groups, an education fair, and displays. Representatives from major medical research centers such as UC Irvine, UCLA, and USC will be on hand, and a wide range of health professions will be covered, including surgery, dentistry, pharmacy, neurology, pediatric medicine, occupational therapy, and veterinary medicine.

The Mt. SAC Caduceus Club is a student club that promotes careers in the health and medical fields.

Tickets for the conference are $37 until April 16 and advanced registration is encouraged.

 

For more information and to register, visit http://www.mtsacpremed.org.

 

Leftover Easter Eggs

By Mark Hopper

I have shared in previous articles how much my wife loves decorating our home during the various seasons of the year.  We have boxes and plastic storage tubs full of decorations for spring and fall, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.  I think we also have some patriotic decorations for the 4th of July.

Easter season has been a lot of fun this year.  One of the things that our young grandchildren like to do is hunt for Easter Eggs around our house.  I enjoy hiding the plastic eggs and love to watch them enjoy finding them.

We have also learned that hiding the eggs is just as much fun as finding the eggs. The four year old likes to hide the plastic eggs inside drawers and kitchen cabinets. The younger 15 month old likes to hide them in more conspicuous places like on a living room chair or on top of the coffee table.

The four year old likes to give hints about the location of the hidden eggs. She uses words like “you are getting warmer” and “you are getting colder” to help guide her younger sister and me to the hidden locations.

On the other hand, the younger one likes to actually show her older sister when she has hidden the eggs. She will walk right to the spot and pick up the egg and give it to her older sister.

It is a fun game to play inside or outside the house. It fills a lot of time and allows both girls to be creative in where they hide the plastic Easter Eggs.

However, one of the challenges of hiding and finding Easter Eggs is accounting for all of them.  After we play this game several times, we realize that some of the eggs are still missing.  I sometimes forget where I have hidden them and sometimes our granddaughters do too. Where did they go? Why haven’t we found all of them yet?

The other day, as we were going to bed, my wife and I discovered a plastic egg under our pillow. Another time, we found one behind the living room curtains. Leftover Easter Eggs keep popping up around our house days after the children had left.

Leftover Easter Eggs bring a smile to our faces and warms our hearts. When we come across a hidden egg, we are reminded of the special times we share with these two precious little girls.

I recommend that all grandparents keep a supply of plastic Easter Eggs year round. They provide a fun activity with little guests and create some memories that will last for a long time. You will be glad you did and they will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

 

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 4.14.18

The 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: WEB.Weekly04.14.2018

History 101

Photo Credit: rrojascms22.weebly.com

April 14, 1865: President Lincoln is shot

History.com

At Ford’s Theater in Washington, D.C., John Wilkes Booth, an actor and Confederate sympathizer, fatally wounds President Abraham Lincoln. The attack came only five days after Confederate General Robert E. Lee surrendered his massive army at Appomattox, effectively ending the American Civil War.

Booth, who remained in the North during the war despite his Confederate sympathies, initially plotted to capture President Lincoln and take him to Richmond, the Confederate capital. However, on March 20, 1865, the day of the planned kidnapping, the president failed to appear at the spot where Booth and his six fellow conspirators lay in wait. Two weeks later, Richmond fell to Union forces. In April, with Confederate armies near collapse across the South, Booth hatched a desperate plan to save the Confederacy.

Learning that Lincoln was to attend Laura Keene’s acclaimed performance in Our American Cousin at Ford’s Theater on April 14, Booth plotted the simultaneous assassination of Lincoln, Vice President Andrew Johnson, and Secretary of State William H. Seward. By murdering the president and two of his possible successors, Booth and his conspirators hoped to throw the U.S. government into paralyzing disarray.

On the evening of April 14, conspirator Lewis T. Powell burst into Secretary of State Seward’s home, seriously wounding him and three others, while George A. Atzerodt, assigned to Vice President Johnson, lost his nerve and fled. Meanwhile, just after 10 p.m., Booth entered Lincoln’s private theater box unnoticed, and shot the president with a single bullet in the back of his head. Slashing an army officer who rushed at him, Booth jumped to the stage and shouted “Sic semper tyrannis! [Thus always to tyrants]–the South is avenged!” Although Booth had broken his left leg jumping from Lincoln’s box, he succeeded in escaping Washington.

The president, mortally wounded, was carried to a cheap lodging house opposite Ford’s Theater. About 7:22 a.m. the next morning, he died–the first U.S. president to be assassinated. Booth, pursued by the army and secret service forces, was finally cornered in a barn near Bowling Green, Virginia, and died from a possibly self-inflicted bullet wound as the barn was burned to the ground. Of the eight other persons eventually charged with the conspiracy, four were hanged and four were jailed.

 

Fight Women’s Cancers 5K Run

Staff Reports

Eastvale – Put on your favorite shade of PINK and join us for a fun and fast 5K or 10K where Mary Kay Pink Cadillac’s mark the course!  When you support this race you are supporting a great cause. All proceeds benefit www.marykayfoundation.org. TMKF is dedicated to ending women’s cancers and fighting domestic abuse.

The race will start at 8 a.m. on Sunday April 22 but you will need to be there earlier to make sure you have everything you need to participate. See the schedule below to make sure you are ready to go. The run will be held at:

Eastvale Community Park
12750 Citrus Street
Eastvale, CA 92880

Registration can be done online at http://www.mk5k.com or you can register at the event on the same day. Same day Registration will be going on form 6:30 am to 7:45 am at the registration table.

There will be Snacks, refreshments and each person in each age group that crosses the finish line will be rewarded with a medal for their participation and effort!

There will be a 5K or a 10K run available to run in on this day and the cost of registration is $45. There will also be a team option available and the top 3 largest teams will be recognized.

The 1 Mile Kids’ Run is for kids 10 years and under and this event will be a 100 Mile Club recognized event .

The cost the kids to register for the event is $20

If you are going to run make sure you look over the schedule for RACE DAY and plan accordingly:

SUNDAY, April 22

6:30am- 7:45am- Bib pick up

6:30am- 7:45am- Same Day registration

7:00am- Pre-Race Activities

8am-10K

8:15am- 5K

9:15- 9:30am estimated start- Kids’ Run

9:30- 9:45am estimated- Awards

Learn more about The Mary Kay Foundation at www.marykayfoundation.org

 

When We Are Drowning In Our Blessings

By Pastor Mark Lee

 

Last month, California’s prayers were answered.  After years of water shortages and dry weather, the sky opened up and rain began to fall.  And fall.  Within weeks, approximately 80% of the state’s historic drought had ended.  Californians, however, soon found themselves drowning in their blessings.  As the soil became saturated and the streets flooded, many people grew frustrated with the very thing they had asked God to send.

 

Being unappreciative of God’s gifts is not unusual.  Just take a look at our daily lives.  We yearn for children, but lament the active toddler or trying teenager.  We ask God for shelter, but despise the never-ending housework. We pray for a steady paycheck, but can’t stand our co-workers.  From the beloved spouse we argue with to the dinner we don’t want to cook, we often have a tendency to take life’s blessings for granted.

 

Much has been said about the need to have an “attitude of gratitude.”  And honestly, who doesn’t want to be grateful for everything they have?  Unfortunately, it is easy to lose sight of the positive when faced with the negative.  No matter how hard we try to fight them off, bad thoughts can creep in.  Because of this, we need to intentionally find something to be thankful for in each situation we face – no matter how bad it is.

 

Colossians 3:17 says, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”  The next time you are frustrated while cleaning the toilet or sitting in traffic, remember that many of these circumstances are the result of your answered prayers.

 

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m., and 11 a.m.

Eastvale Area Crime Recap: March 2018

INCIDENT: OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING

WHEN: 3/8/18

WHERE: 9900 Block of Willowbrook Rd., Jurupa Valley

 

On March 8, 2018, at about 5:35 PM, officers from the Riverside Police Department were conducting an investigation for a wanted suspect within the 9900 block of Willowbrook Road, Jurupa Valley.  As the officers encountered the suspect an officer involved shooting occurred.  Life-saving measures were performed, but the suspect succumbed to his injuries.  No citizens or officers were injured as a result of this incident.  Deputies from the Jurupa Valley Station responded and assisted Riverside Police Department personnel.  Based on this being an ongoing investigation, the identity of the suspect is being withheld at this time.  Riverside County Sheriff Department’s Central Homicide Unit investigators responded and assumed the investigation.  The Riverside Police Department also sent out an investigative team to investigate the incident.  Per the Riverside Police Department’s policy, the involved officers were placed on administrative leave.  This is an ongoing investigation and the Riverside County Sheriff Department’s Central Homicide Unit encourages anyone with information regarding this incident to contact Investigator Johnson at 760-393-3502, or Investigator Liu of the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

 

INCIDENT: POSSESSION OF STOLEN VEHICLE, INVESTIGATION AND ARREST

WHEN: 3/9/18

WHERE: 1200 Block of Hamner Ave., Norco

 

On Friday, March 9, 2018, about 7:27 p.m., a deputy assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office conducted an enforcement stop on a vehicle, in the 1200 block of Hamner Avenue, in the City of Norco. A records check of the vehicle revealed it had been reported stolen. The vehicle driver and passenger were subsequently detained, pending the investigation. The driver of the stolen vehicle was identified as Amanda Cortez, age 28, a Jurupa Valley resident, and the vehicle passenger was identified Marco Raul Arevalo, age 28, a Montclair resident. Cortez and Arevalo were arrested for possession of stolen property in addition to several outstanding felony warrants. Both suspects were booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center, in the City of Riverside for the listed charges and warrants.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact Deputy Robertson of the Norco Sheriff’s Office at (951) 270-5673.

 

INCIDENT: PACKAGE THEFT- SEEKING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE

WHEN: 3/9/18

WHERE: 400 Block of Branding Iron Ln., Norco

The Norco Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance with identifying a package theft suspect.

On Saturday, March 10, 2018, about 3:00 p.m., a deputy from the Norco Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to a residence, located in the 400 block of Branding Iron Lane, in the City of Norco. This was in reference to a reported package theft.

The subsequent investigation revealed that on Friday, March 9, about 6:30 p.m., a female suspect had walked up to the front of the residence, stole several delivered packages, and fled the location. The theft was recorded on a home camera surveillance system. The female suspect was described as being white, approximately 30 years of age, with light brown or red hair. She was last seen wearing a blue floral blouse, blue jeans, and red tennis shoes. Anyone who has information about the identity of the suspect or has any information pertaining to this case, is encouraged to contact Deputy Hughes of the Norco Sheriff’s Office, at (951) 270-5673.

 

INCIDENT: ASSAULT

WHEN: 3/21/18 (UPDATED: 3/22/18)

WHERE: 13000 Block of Dearborn St., Eastvale

UPDATE: On Wednesday, March 21, 2018, around 3:00 p.m., the suspect vehicle and suspect were identified and located. The suspect, Juan Francisco Romero Coto, was booked in at the Robert Presley Detention Center for an unrelated warrant. The case will be submitted to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office for review. ORIGINAL INCIDENT: On Wednesday, March 21, 2018, around 7:10 a.m. officers assigned to the Eastvale Police Department responded to an assault that occurred on the Riverwalk Trail near Dearborn Street. During the assault, the suspect knocked the victim to the ground, the victim kicked the suspect off and the suspect fled on foot. A person of interest was last seen wearing a red sweatshirt with white lettering on the back. The person of interest was seen entering a white Chevy 2-door pick-up truck equipped with white work racks and an orange water cooler tied to the bed. The pick-up was towing a white, single axle trailer. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Investigator Contreras of the Eastvale Police Department at (951) 955-2600.

INCIDENT: QUALITY OF LIFE ENFORCEMENT OPERATION

WHEN: 3/22/18

WHERE: Mission Blvd. Business District, Jurupa Valley

DETAILS: On March 22, 2018, deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Special Enforcement Team conducted a directed enforcement and undercover operation in the Mission Boulevard Business District of Jurupa Valley after receiving numerous complaints from business owners and citizens regarding suspicious activity in the area. During this operation, Hakeen Joadikay Richardson, a 27-year-old resident of Perris, was observed loitering for the purpose of prostitution and subsequently arrested on scene. The Jurupa Valley Special Enforcement Team will continue to monitor and deter criminal activity in the Mission Boulevard Business District and is asking anyone with concerns related to suspicious or criminal activity in the area to contact the Jurupa Valley Special Enforcement Team at 951-955-2600.

INCIDENT: VEHICLE THEFT INVESTIGATION AND ARREST

WHEN: 3/29/18

WHERE: 1300 Block of Sixth St., Norco

DETAILS: On Wednesday, March 28, 2018, about 9:44 a.m., a deputy assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office, was patrolling near a business, located in the 1300 block of Sixth Street, in the city of Norco.  While at this location, a citizen advised the deputy their vehicle had just been stolen from the business parking lot. Deputies obtained the victim’s vehicle description and the last known direction of travel. Within minutes, responding deputies located the suspect driving the stolen vehicle on a nearby street. Deputies attempted to conduct an enforcement stop on the stolen vehicle; however, the suspect drove away, and a pursuit ensued. The suspect attempted to evade pursuing deputies by driving onto the northbound I-15 Freeway from Sixth Street. As the suspect drove on the freeway, he collided into a ravine near the right shoulder. The suspect exited the vehicle and attempted to flee from deputies on foot but was quickly apprehended without incident. The driver was identified as Menny Gaytan, age 28, a resident of Pomona. Gaytan was arrested for vehicle theft and evading a peace officer. Following the arrest, Gaytan was transported to a nearby hospital for a precautionary medical evaluation as a result of the vehicle collision. Gaytan was released from the hospital and later booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center in the City of Riverside for the listed charges. The Norco Sheriff’s Office is committed to the safety of the citizens of Norco and will be vigilant in investigation all crimes of this nature. We are asking anyone with additional information on this case to contact Deputy Postoian during business hours at (951) 270-5673.

 

 

# # #