Category Archives: Diamond Bar

4th Of July Celebrations Near You

By Racine Guajardo

Looking for a local Independence Day Celebration? Here are lists of local events you may attend!

Chino- On Saturday, July 2, City of Chino and Chino Girls Fastpitch present “Chino Fireworks Spectacular” at Ruben S. Ayala Park, 14225 Central Avenue.

The event starts at 3 p.m. and ends at 9:30 p.m. Included will be carnival rides and games, a food court, a performance by The Answer, Military recognition, and end with a firework showing starting at approximately 9 p.m.

For more information about this event, you may visit http://www.cityofchino.org/events or call (909) 334-3258.

Chino Hills- The City of Chino Hills invites you on June 29 to attend the Independence Celebration at Veterans Park, 14877 Eucalyptus Avenue.

The event will be held from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. including free activities, live tribute band, concession booths, carnival games, face painting, arts and crafts, live entertainment, balloon artists and giveaways.

Diamond Bar- Diamond Bar High School, 21400 Pathfinder Rd., will be hosting a 4th of July Blast!

This event will start at 5 p.m. with a musical performance by the band, Cold Duck; followed by a firework show that will start promptly at 9 p.m. Parking and admission are free. You may bring a picnic dinner or purchase concessions from local non-profit vendors.

If you have any questions about the event, you may email atarazon@diamondbarca.gov or call (909) 839-7070.

Walnut- City of Walnut will be celebrating on 4th of July at Suzanne Park, 625 Suzanne Rd.

The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with activities such as face painting, pie eating contest, and food trucks. The firework show will start at approximately 9 p.m.

For more information, contact The Walnut Community Services Department at (909) 598-5605.

 

 

 

WVUSD Board Recognizes Young Artists, Star Students, and Community Partners

By Kelli Gile

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Trustees honored the District’s top winners in the 2016 Music K-8 Cover Contest. Shown with Music teacher Judy Brunelle and Board President Helen Hall.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Trustees honored the District’s top winners in the 2016 Music K-8 Cover Contest. Shown with Music teacher Judy Brunelle and Board President Helen Hall.

 

Walnut—Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) Board of Trustees honored a large group of exceptionalstudents and parents during the May 18 meeting.Twenty-seven children representing all nine elementary schools were lauded as winners in the nationwide Music K-8 Magazine Cover Contest. Music Specialist Judy Brunelle introduced thetalented 5th grade artists who received certificates of special recognition and color prints of their original designs. This year’s top WVUSD winner is 1st Runner-Up Michael Wu from Walnut Elementary. Top Finalists are May Chaisakulchai, Stepanie Wong, Winnie Chang, Katherine Viala, and Hanna Wu. Finalists are Susanna Wang, Ryan Chung, Jasmine Matsuda, Masyn Ramos-Johns, Susan Wang, Catherine Zhang, Jessica Wang, Leticia Camberos, Jillian Wong, Ashley Len Bouey, and Emily Kwok. Honorable Mention Awards: Rohit Bishoyi, Jessica Rojas, Tammi Lin, Hannah Jang, Talyah Ejan, Luke Lee, Rachel Lee, Michelle Chan, Ryan Kung, and Olivia Gagar.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High Science Bowl team won the state championship and placed third in the nation. Shown: Benjamin Chen, Brandon Hung, Leslie Sim, Miriam Sun, Jeff Chow, with advisor Jose Marquez.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High Science Bowl team won the state championship and placed third in the nation. Shown: Benjamin Chen, Brandon Hung, Leslie Sim, Miriam Sun, Jeff Chow, with advisor Jose Marquez.

 

Diamond Bar High School senior Jordan Osmena received

the Super Star Student Award.Jordan received rave reviews as the innkeeper in the school’s production of “Les Miserables.”

“Sometimes someone catches fire and that’s what happened this year,” said interim principal Denis Paul about the first year drama student that had never acted before. “Jordan found his niche!”

Parent Rachel Chang was honored with the Partner in Education Award.

“This past year, Rachel was the chairperson of our Magnificent 7 parent organization. She ruled with a velvet glove!” Paul added.

The dedicated volunteer serves as a liaison for translating information and has the ability to make sure that everyone has a voice during meetings. Next year, Rachel will step into a new role as president of the Korean American Parents Association.

Walnut High School senior Nia Phillips-Johnson received the Super Star Student Award.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High School’s CIF Champion Badminton team was honored by the Board of Trustees on May 18. Shown: Sabrina Chen, Jasmine Huang, Mirabelle Huang, Kristine Martinez, Miriam Sun, Megan Tsui, Crystal Wai, Gwen Wang, Samantha Yang, Lucy Zhang, Angela Zhang, Kevin Bao, Vinson Chiu, Jeff Chow, Angrew Gao, Hanson Gao, Will He, Daniel Huang, Samuel Huang, Brenton Hwee, Ian Lam, Justin Lam, Joshe Lee, Kent Liu, Ambrose So, Tianyi Zhang, with assistant coach Tisha Shaver, and Board President Helen Hall.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High School’s CIF Champion Badminton team was honored by the Board of Trustees on May 18. Shown: Sabrina Chen, Jasmine Huang, Mirabelle Huang, Kristine Martinez, Miriam Sun, Megan Tsui, Crystal Wai, Gwen Wang, Samantha Yang, Lucy Zhang, Angela Zhang, Kevin Bao, Vinson Chiu, Jeff Chow, Angrew Gao, Hanson Gao, Will He, Daniel Huang, Samuel Huang, Brenton Hwee, Ian Lam, Justin Lam, Joshe Lee, Kent Liu, Ambrose So, Tianyi Zhang, with assistant coach Tisha Shaver, and Board President Helen Hall.

“Nia came to Walnut this year halfway through the semester and hit the ground running,” said Principal Brandon Dade.

The hard-working student successfully took seven Advanced Placement courses, completed over 280 credits, and has been accepted to Loyola Marymount University.

“Her character, perseverance, and the positive relationships she has with other people will be her legacy at Walnut High,” Dade added.

The Zhan Family received the Partner in Education Award for their efforts in meeting the needs of Walnut High students. Through several financial donations, totaling $13,000, the school has been able to purchase clothing, holiday gift baskets, gift cards, and additional items.

“These items have helped break down financial barriers so that our students can enjoy their high school experience,” said Dade.

Several outstanding groups of high school students were also honored with special awards.

 

Diamond Bar High School:  The Math Team was recognized as Division IIE national Math Madness champions and California Math League 1st place winners. Science Bowl team took 1st place in California and 3rd place in division at the national competition. Girls Basketball received two 1st Team All-CIF awards, and competed in quarterfinals for the first time in 20 years. Boys Golf won the Palomares league championship. The CIF championship Badminton team has been undefeated for the past five years. Color Guard placed 15th nationally, won the northern and southern California regionals, and are two-time state parade champions with Band. Band also won its second state championship, All-State, and All-Southern awards led by drum major junior Becky Kim, who is an All-State, All-Southern, and nationally ranked clarinetist. Next year, the two-time state champion drum major has the chance to be first-ever three-time state

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Walnut HS Girls Golf was honored as CIF Champions by the WVUSD Board of Trustees. Shown: Alison Chang, Abigail Wiranatha, Annabelle Chang, Trussy Li, Katherine Muzi, Keisha Lugito, Preciious Saelee, Catherine Yu, and Micelle Xi with coach Cecil Woods, Principal Brandon Dade, Athletic Director Jerry Person, and Board President Helen Hall.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Walnut HS Girls Golf was honored as CIF Champions by the WVUSD Board of Trustees. Shown: Alison Chang, Abigail Wiranatha, Annabelle Chang, Trussy Li, Katherine Muzi, Keisha Lugito, Preciious Saelee, Catherine Yu, and Micelle Xi with coach Cecil Woods, Principal Brandon Dade, Athletic Director Jerry Person, and Board President Helen Hall.

champion!

 

Walnut High School: Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) ranked 3rd in the state for the second year in a row. Harrison Li took 1st place in Accounting 1 and 2, Fond Kuo, Matt McBride won 1st place in the David Bowie Digital Production, and 25 students qualified for nationals. All five choirs received Superior rating at festivals.  Chamber Singers received national recognition for the second year in a row as a Heritage Festival gold-rated group, received 1st place in the Chamber choir division at a San Francisco festival, named Top Choir in all divisions, received Adjudicator’s Award, Gold Award, Outstanding Soloist award for Dana Hernandez; and five students were named to the All-State Honor Choir and ACSA Western Division Honor Choirs.  Girls Golf was recognized as CIF champions and wrestler Mia Dow as a three-time CIF champion and 3rd in the state.

Local Politics Over Dinner A Success

Staff Reports Cover--Republican-Women's-Dinner6-WEB

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar Republican Women Federated (DBRWF) hosted a dinner and social gathering on Thursday, May 26. The event took place at the Diamond Bar Golf Course/Country Club, located at 22751 E. Golden Springs Drive in Diamond Bar.

The cost to attend was $25 and it included dinner. The social gathering started at 6:30 p.m. and the dinner began at 7 p.m.

The dinner was combined with the Puente Hills Republican Women Federated. The guest speaker was the Chairman of the California Republican Party, Jim Brulte.

“Jim will no doubt have some great insights for us, having just held the California Republican Party convention in Burlingame last weekend,” said a DBRWF newsletter.

It was an honor to have Jim Brulte as a special guest speaker at the event. He has many accomplishments such as; Chairman of the CA Republican Party in March 2013, 14 years in the CA State Legislature, recent Senate Republican Leader, joined CA Strategies to head up the IE office, and completed a term as a member of the Board of Visitors of the US Naval Academy.

Brulte has focused a lot of his efforts on education, regulatory reform, crime reduction, and common-sense legislation representing the IE to improve California’s business climate. He had been described as “arguably the most powerful elected Republican in California.”

This event was open to the public and opened to any political party. The newsletter encouraged anyone to attend and become up to date on California’s politics.

For future events, if you would like to attend, please contact Trisha at BrahmaMama1@aol.com.

Brahma Science Bowl Team Competes In DC

By Kelli Gile   

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High took 3rd-place awards in their division at the 2016 National Science Bowl. Shown: Advisors Jose Marquez and Latitia Thomas, with students Brandon Hung, Jeff Chow, Miriam Sun, Leslie Sim, and Ben Chen.

Diamond Bar High School Jose Marquez, coach, Latitia Thomas, assistant coach, Brandon Hung, Jeff Chow, Miriam Sun, Ben Chen and Leslie Sim of Diamond Bear, CA, pose for a team photo during the 2016 National Science Bowl competition, Thursday, April 28, 2016, in Washington, DC. (Photo by Jack Dempsey, U.S. Department of Energy, Office of Science)

Diamond Bar—A stellar group of Diamond Bar High School (DBHS) students took 3rd place in their division during the 2016 National Science Bowl held this month in Washington, D.C.

DBHS team members Miriam Sun, Jeff Chow, Leslie Sim, Ben Chen, and Brandon Hung qualified for nationals after winning the regional competition in February.

The academic competition tests students’ knowledge in all areas of science and mathematics, with more than 14,000 students from across the country participating in the bowl each year.

“Our students played brilliantly, showing strong competitive spirit, and sportsmanship,” said science teacher Jose Marquez, who coaches the team with math teacher Latitia Thomas.

Teams face off in a fast-paced format as they answer questions about biology, chemistry, Earth science, physics, energy, and math.

After getting off to a slow start and losing the first two rounds, the Diamond Bar students regrouped and won six consecutive rounds by impressive margins.

In the exciting last round, while down 14 points, DBHS buzzed in and answered the final question, along with a bonus question, earning the needed points to end the game in a tie.

“I have never been more proud to be a Brahma!” said Marquez, adding that DBHS, one of the largest public schools at the competition, was just one point away from moving on to the next round. “Our students achieved academic success while competing with class and poise. They left an indelible mark at the event.”

The National Science Bowl was created in 1991 to encourage students to excel in math and science and pursue careers in those fields. The two seniors on the DBHS team are doing just that.

Next year, Miriam Sun will study biology at Caltech, while Jeff Chow plans to focus on bioengineering at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

“Attending the National Science Bowl with some of Diamond Bar’s best and brightest was definitely a highlight from high school!” Chow said.

 

Diamond Bar: Free Vacation Home Checks

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar– Going on vacation this summer? The City of Diamond Bar encourages you to call Diamond-Bar Walnut Sheriff’s Station and add them as part of your pre-travel preparation.

The Sheriff’s Station will be offering free vacation checks for the days you will be out of town, which includes a Sheriff’s Deputy or trained Volunteer Patrol member who will perform a security inspection outside of your home. They will do inspections including: checking the doors and windows for signs of forced entry, and collection and disposing of unsolicited commercial flyers lying on the driveway or porches.

The Sheriff’s Station also suggests other ways to further protect your home while you are away including: postponing the delivery or your mail, have one of your neighbors pick up your mail or newspapers to prevent it from piling up, and installing exterior lights that operate on a dawn-to-dusk, or timer function to create the illusion that you are home.

You may contact the Sheriff’s Station to learn more about this service or request a vacation check by calling (909) 595-2264. You may also go in person by visiting the Sheriff’s Department at 21695 E. Valley Boulevard in Walnut.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 6.18.16

2016-Jun18-Weekly-COVERThe Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format:2016-Jun18-Weekly-WEB

Signed, Sealed, and Delivered!

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

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

By Kelli Gile

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

iversity.

 

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

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

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

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

He made the varsity team his sophomore year.

Donahue plans to major in business administration or mechanical engineering.

 

 

 

 

Water Worries

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

 

Diamond Bar – The May 17 Diamond Bar Council meeting began with a presentation to the outgoing Los Angeles County 4th District Supervisor Don Knabe, celebrating years of service to Diamond Bar and Los Angeles County. Following a reception for Knabe, the Council proclaimed May 2016 as Water Awareness Month.

After the public comments, the schedule of future events were read, including the Planning Commission meeting on May 24; the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on May 26; City wide recognition of Memorial Day on May 30; and the next City Council meeting on  June 7.

The Council approved the following items on the consent calendar: City Council minutes from the meeting of May 3; the Parks and Recreation minutes from the meeting of March 24; ratification of a check register totaling $750,250.23; approval of a second contract amendment with Siemens Industry, Inc. for a one year extension for traffic signal maintenance; and appropriation of Prop A funds to the fiscal year 2015-16 CIP budget; and award the design and construction management services contract to Iteris, Inc for the Traffic Signal Infrastructure Upgrades Project Phase II. The Council agreed to amend the contract with ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance to a six month extension and alert the company that current maintenance of landscape and parks is subpar.

Following Council reports and comments, the Council adjourned to the next meeting on June 7.

South Pointe Named State Champs!

 ‘History Day’ team going to nationals

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile California History Day winners Joshua Chung, Raymond Cheng, Cyrus Phan, and Phillip Huynh, shown with advisor Kevin Duh, will compete in Washington D.C. in June.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
California History Day winners Joshua Chung, Raymond Cheng, Cyrus Phan, and Phillip Huynh, shown with advisor Kevin Duh, will compete in Washington D.C. in June.

 

Diamond Bar – Four South Pointe Middle School honors students are headed to Washington D.C. for the National History Day competition on June 12-16.

Eighth graders Joshua Chung, Raymond Cheng, Cyrus Phan, and Phillip Huynh created the winning “NASA’s Early Manned Missions” exhibit.

“They were declared California champions and will be representing the state at the national contest,” said social studies teacher and advisor Kevin Duh.

A total of three groups from South Pointe competed during the California History Day contest on May 6-8.

The students spent several months researching topics revolving around the 2016 NHD theme “Exploration, Encounter, and Exchange.”

Their projects qualified for the state competition at the L.A. County History Day at Azusa Pacific University in March.

 

 

A Dinner To Remember

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

My wife and I will be celebrating our 45th wedding anniversary on June 4th.  It is hard to believe that we were married 45 years ago.

We actually met at the beginning of our freshman year at Scottsdale High School in 1964.  I was elected as the freshman class president and she was elected the class secretary.

We became good friends as we worked on Homecoming floats and various class projects.  We enjoyed being with a group of friends as we cheered our hearts out at the school football games and enjoyed high school life in the 1960’s.

However, we didn’t actually start dating until our senior year.  She said that I was too busy dating girls with long blond hair and I didn’t seem to notice this cute red head that would be my future wife!

We continued to date as we went to college at Arizona State University.  As our friendship deepened, it seemed inevitable that one day we would get married.

On my wife’s birthday 45 years ago, we went out for a special dinner at the Camelback Inn overlooking the lights of Phoenix.  It was a perfect setting to give her an engagement ring and ask her to marry me.

Recently, we went back to the Camelback Inn to celebrate our 45th anniversary.  The setting was beautiful and the food was great.  We took time to reflect on our journey together.

We have been very blessed to have four wonderful adult kids and seven grandchildren with another one on the way.   It has been an honor to serve together for over 40 years in two wonderful churches – 13 years in Arizona and 28 years here in Diamond Bar.

When we told the server at the restaurant that we were celebrating our 45th anniversary, he presented us with a special dessert at the end of our meal.  The chef had written “45th Anniversary” on the dessert plate.  We took a picture to capture the moment.  It really was a dinner to remember!

Let me encourage you to make time to express your love an appreciation to your husband or wife.  Make a date and plan a dinner to remember!  You will be glad you did and they will too!

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

Exchange Zone Created At Sheriff’s Station

Photo courtesy: Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department Caption: The Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department has created an “exchange zone” for residents who are selling or buying an item from someone they met online.

Photo courtesy: Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department
Caption:
The Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department has created an “exchange zone” for residents who are selling or buying an item from someone they met online.

Staff Reports

Walnut/Diamond Bar- Buying and selling online has become a new trend within social media sites, internet sites, and new apps that have been created. However, reports of thefts have raised an issue with Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department.  Therefore, the Sheriff’s Department has created an “exchange zone” for residents to meet safely while selling or buying an item from someone they met online. The “exchange zone” is clearly marked for either party involved.

Walnut/Diamond Sheriff’s department would like to also note that they “cannot act as official witnesses to any transactions, will not give legal advice, and will not settle civil disputes related to any transaction,” according to a Sheriff’s Department News Release.

If you have any additional concerns or questions, you may contact Captain Jeffrey Scroggin at (909) 595-2264.

 

Community Helps Woman in DB

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar –A resident reported on a social media website that her car was broken into while parked by the Steep Canyon Trail in Diamond Bar.

On May 20, the resident said that her window was shattered and her purse and bag were stolen, even though they were covered in the back seat. The theft occurred within 45 minutes, according to the resident.

She explained that she was more devastated that her kids’ birthday gift cards were in her purse and money for her husband’s birthday was saved in there as well. However, the Diamond Bar community stepped up and offered to help the woman.

A Diamond Bar resident, Raviya Tej, said that her husband owned the Dilliwala Indian Restaurant in Diamond Bar. Tej offered to have the family come to the restaurant so they can celebrate the victim’s husband’s birthday at no charge.

Another Diamond Bar resident, Wes Fuller, went out of his way to drop off a card and a special donation to the woman and her family. Many community members offered support, good thoughts, and prayers to the woman, as well.

To avoid vehicle thefts, view the following tips provided by the Buffalo Police Department:

  • Don’t leave valuables in your vehicle: You’d be surprised how often this happens, but individuals leave valuable items in plain sight all the time. If you leave items in your vehicle and they’re visible, the chances your vehicle will get broken into, increase greatly.
  • Place items out of sight BEFORE reaching your destination: Someone may be watching when you put your valuables under a seat or in the trunk and the moment you’re gone, a thief could break into your car. So place those items in a safe place before you get to the park, beach, baseball game, etc. Valuable items that thieves target are GPS units, MP3 players, credit cards, money, packages and so forth. If you can’t take the items with you, secure them in a safe place in your vehicle, like a locked glove compartment or your trunk.
  • Avoid leaving packages or shopping bags out in the open: Lock them into your trunk, if you have to leave the vehicle unattended. Never open a trunk, fill it full of valuables, close it, and then just walk away.
  • Lock ALL of your vehicle’s doors: This is true even if you plan on only being gone for “just a second”. Remember, it only takes seconds to steal items from your car. It’s not uncommon, for thieves to walk down a row of parked vehicles, looking for unlocked doors. Also, make sure car windows aren’t left open.
  • Park in busy, well lit areas: Pick a parking spot where there is a lot of activity. Auto thieves prefer breaking into cars in isolated areas.
  • Don’t leave a trace: Don’t leave any sign that there might be valuables “out of sight” in your vehicle. For example: the suction cup on your dashboard, might tell thieves, that you have a GPS system in your vehicle. Leave nothing in plain view. Very few auto break-ins are “random”. The thieves usually see something out in the open or hints of possible hidden valuables.
  • Alarms or anti-theft devices work: Thieves are usually looking for the “easiest” target. If your car has an alarm, it could act as a deterrent. But don’t make this common mistake: Just because you have an alarm, doesn’t mean thieves won’t break-in, IF you leave valuable items in plain sight.
  • Don’t leave spare keys in your vehicle: An experienced thief knows all the hiding places. Store spare keys elsewhere, possibly your wallet or purse.

If you would like to see additional tips from a former car thief, visit http://bluecollarworkman.com/tips-from-a-former-car-thief-on-how-to-protect-your-car/

ACI Institute: Unique Lesson Plans And Test Prep

By Racine Guajardo

Caption: ACI Institute is located at 660 N. Diamond Bar Blvd. Suite 168. You can visit their website at www.studyforcollege.com or call them at (909) 860-9345. Also, see their ad in the Weekly News.

Caption: ACI Institute is located at 660 N. Diamond Bar Blvd. Suite 168. You can visit their website at http://www.studyforcollege.com or call them at (909) 860-9345. Also, see their ad in the Weekly News.

Diamond Bar– ACI Institute is a learning center that provides after-school enrichment in English and Math for students in grade levels 2nd– 12th. They offer weekend classes for SAT, PSAT, ACT, and Writing.

The in-house team of ACI has created challenging, original materials to ensure that each child is learning what he/she needs to succeed on their road to higher education. Each classroom is equipped with smart board technology to bring lessons to life and increase interactivity within the class.

Teachers on staff are college educated, experienced professionals with a passion for teaching. Director of ACI, Diane Sartor, has served as director and curriculum coordinator since 1993. She has been teaching since 1989, majored in English and French, fluent in mandarin Chinese and, also involved in Motivational speaking for Educational Seminars. Sartor has stated, “my personal goal is to inspire students to embrace challenge and find joy and self-worth through achievement.”

“An education should foster students’ intellectual growth along with their social and emotional development. Our classroom environment is educational, yet fun and motivates student to excel in school.” Discounts are available for school-year programs and for returning students. All students in grades 2-12 are encouraged to walk-in for a free test evaluation and consultation. Currently, a full 10-week summer school program that begins June 6th is available.

ACI is serving the communities of Diamond, Bar, Walnut, Pomona, and surrounding communities with their Weekend Programs at 660 N. Diamond Bar Blvd. Suite 168. This new location is equipped with a rest area for student snack time and security cameras throughout the facility to ensure that your children are learning in a safe and comfortable environment. Major cross streets are Diamond Bar Blvd., just north of Sunset Crossing; entrance is at the back of the building on the first floor.

You can visit their website at www.studyforcollege.com or email office@aciprep.org . You may also call them at (909) 860-9345.

Let’s Talk STEM!

Maple Hill PLTW classes enjoy engineering day with Cal Poly students

By Kelli Gile

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Maple Hill PLTW students use engineering skills to build spaghetti and marshmallow towers.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Maple Hill PLTW students use engineering skills to build spaghetti and marshmallow towers.

Diamond Bar – Cal Poly Pomona Project Lead the Way (PLTW) and Women in Engineering (WE) students recently spent a day with 200 Maple Hill Elementary students to talk about STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and how it relates to everyday life.

The college students visited 4th and 5th grade classes for 10-minute presentations about engineering and a spaghetti tower challenge.

The youngsters raced to build the “strong and tall” structures using dried pasta, with tiny white marshmallows as the “glue.” They quickly demonstrated teamwork, leadership, and creativity skills to successfully work with the fragile materials.

“We worked together to find lots of ways to solve the problem,” said 4th grader Joshua Chan.

“Engineering is hard, but fun too!” added classmate Leah Owens.

The Cal Poly visitors worked alongside the elementary students during the activity.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Cal Poly Pomona Women in Engineering and Project Lead the Way visit Maple Hill Elementary for a day of STEM education.


Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Cal Poly Pomona Women in Engineering and Project Lead the Way visit Maple Hill Elementary for a day of STEM education.

“It was very inspiring to see the frustration during the building turn into excitement when a free-standing structure was achieved,” Cal Poly student, Teresa Rodriquez, commented.

“We went to the school to help the students understand how engineers play a role in society, and to help them experience the process through a hands-on learning experience,” added another visitor, Jonathon Roberts.

Maple Hill launched the innovative PLTW program at the beginning of the school year, with kindergarten through fifth grade students immersed in robotics and engineering projects.

“It was a great day and our students enjoyed it a lot,” said kindergarten teacher Lisa Esse.
“We are hoping to continue and build our partnership with Cal Poly so that next year the engineering students will be coming on a regular basis.”

“I am glad to see both girls and boys so interested in STEM, and can’t wait to see the big creations their little minds develop in the future,” said Rodrigue

My Favorite Mother-in-Law

mark-hopper-color-2x2By Pastor Mark Hopper

Recently, my wife’s mother died in Arizona.  She was born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on August 20, 1924.  She was 91-years-old.

I always called her my favorite mother-in-law.   Actually, she was my only mother-in-law.  My wife and I have been married for 45 years, so she has been my mother-in-law for all that time!

She was a remarkable woman.  She was born during the “Roaring 20’s” and lived through the Great Depression in the 1930’s.  After earning her nursing degree, she worked at a hospital in Washington, DC during World War II.

After the end of the war, she married my father-in-law and they settled down on Long Island, New York in the first modern subdivision called Levitown.  It was a futuristic master planned community filled with returning veterans and their brides.

This young couple was also part of the post-war “Baby Boom”, having four kids in New York and a fifth child after they migrated to Scottsdale, Arizona.

My favorite mother-in-law was a stay-at-home mom who was actively involved in the lives of her five children.   When the kids got into high school and college, she became a school nurse and enjoyed helping young students at the local elementary school.

My in laws enjoyed their retirement years and traveled to Europe and the British Isles several times.  One of their favorite trips was to Ireland because she had Irish roots.  Her maiden name was Gallagher!

My wife and I enjoyed some memorable times with her parents.  We traveled with them to San Diego on several occasions.  And, we will always remember a special trip with them to Hawaii.

I was surprised at how many people attended her memorial service.  There were many former neighbors and friends in attendance, plus many family members.  Almost all of her grandchildren came, too.  She had five children, 13 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren with two more on the way.

There were also a number of our high school friends and former classmates at the service.  They considered her to be their adopted mom, too.

Let me encourage you to take time this week to express your love and appreciation to an older adult in your life.  Why not put a note in the mail or pick up the phone and make a call?

Tell them how much they have meant in your life.  You will be glad you did and they will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper

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

DB City Council Recap

City Council Approves Large Lists of Items

By Natalie Kim

Diamond Bar – The May 3 Diamond Bar Council meeting began with a special presentation to Team Evergreen for winning the Odyssey of the Mind at the state level. During the public comments, a representative from the Diamond Bar public library announced several upcoming events that will be hosted by the library and are free to attend.

The schedule of future events was read, including the traffic and transportation commission meeting on May 12 at 7 p.m. and the next City Council meeting on May 12. The Planning Commission meeting on May 10 was cancelled.

The Council then approved the following items: City Council minutes of April 19; ratification of check register amounting to $944,587.43; the Treasurer’s statement for the month of March 2016; awarding a contract to Architerra Design Group, Inc. for the design of construction documents for Peterson Park Tot Lot for $21,020, appropriation of $21,020 of a Park Development fund for this work, plus the design of fourteen information panels for the City’s trails for $8,000; award of contract to Western Audio Visual, Inc. for a new projector and screen at the Diamond Bar Center; a resolution declaring the City’s intention to levy and collect assessments for landscape district no. 38 and direct the City Clerk to advertise the public hearing to be set for the regular meeting on June 21; approval of a contract amendment with Hardy & Harper Inc. for three fiscal years for on call public works maintenance services specific to asphalt pavement, sidewalk, curb & gutter and striping maintenance; and a resolution accepting a quitclaim deed and irrevocable offer of dedication from the Walnut Valley United School District for Public Uses Specific to Larkstone Park and Larkstone Drive.

Many residents protested the final item on the consent calendar, approval of the final tract map for the subdivision of an 80 acre site into 48 residential lots, located directly south of Rocky Trail road and Alamo Heights Drive, and West of Horizon Lane within the gated community of the Country Estates in the City of Diamond Bar. However, the Council also approved this item, to follow accordance of state law.

Following individual Council member reports and comments, the Council adjourned with plans to meet again on May 12, at 6:30 p.m., at 21865 Copley Dr.

Politics Over Dinner In Diamond Bar

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar Republican Women Federated (DBRWF) is hosting a dinner and social gathering on Thursday, May 26. The event will take place at the Diamond Bar Golf Course/Country Club, located at 22751 E. Golden Springs Drive in Diamond Bar.

The cost to attend is $25 and it includes dinner. The social gathering will take place at 6:30 p.m. and the dinner will begin at 7 p.m.

The dinner will be combined with the Puente Hills Republican Women, Federated. The guest speaker will be the Chairman of the California Republican Party, Jim Brulte.

“Jim will no doubt have some great insights for us, having just held the California Republican Party convention in Burlingame last weekend,” said a DBRWF newsletter.

This event is open to the public and open to any political party. “Come join us and get up to date on California politics!” said the newsletter.

If you would like to attend, please RSVP to Trisha at BrahmaMama1@aol.com.  If you make a reservation and find that you won’t be able to attend, you may also email Trisha to let her know.

DBHS Announces New Volleyball Coach

Staff Reports

Photo courtesy: DBHS Katie Swetnam was announced as the new DBHS Head Volleyball Coach

Photo courtesy: DBHS
Katie Swetnam was announced as the new DBHS Head Volleyball Coach

Diamond Bar– Diamond Bar High School recently announced their new Head Volleyball Coach, Katie Swetnam.

“We are excited to welcome Katie Swetnam back to Diamond Bar High School,” said Athletic Director, Kevin Ferguson in a news release. “Coach Swetnam is a young, enthusiastic coach who has instant rapport with our student-athletes based on her collegiate playing experience. We expect she will provide stability to our volleyball program and begin the process of building the kind of success we expect to see at Diamond Bar.”

Swetnam is a first-year Spanish teacher at DBHS. But she is also a Diamond Bar graduate. She graduated in 2009, after she led the Brahmas to a league championship in 2008 and was named 1st Team All-League and Offensive MVP in volleyball.

“Swetnam continued on to play Division 1 collegiate volleyball as a full athletic scholarship recipient at the University of Maryland Baltimore County, where she lead her conference in blocks in the 2011 season,” according to DBHS.

Swetnam was also named the 2011 Comeback Player of the Year after she had two shoulder surgeries; she came back strong and became team captain in 2012. After earning her degree, she started coaching club volleyball. She also became the DBHS Varsity Assistant last season, under Becky Bevans.

“I am honored to be chosen to lead the Diamond Bar volleyball program,” said Swetnam. “I’m looking forward to getting in the gym right away in preparation for the upcoming season.”

 

Backyard Pool Safety

pool-safety-for-kidsCity of Diamond Bar

Diamond Bar – A backyard swimming pool can provide hours of summer fun for families, but without proper safety measures in place, it can also pose a danger to young children.

According to statistics kept by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, drowning ranks fifth among the leading causes of unintentional injury death in the United States and approximately one in five people who die from drowning are age 14 and younger.

Also, for every child who dies from drowning, another five receive emergency care for nonfatal injuries that result in severe brain damage and long-term disabilities such as memory problems, learning disabilities, and permanent vegetative state.

To help prevent a pool-related death or injury, backyard pool owners are urged to ensure that they have in place the following layers of protection:

  • A self-closing and locking fence enclosing the pool area, clear of ladders or other furniture that can be used by children to climb over.
  • A responsible adult with swimming experience and trained in CPR and other lifesaving techniques always supervising children in or near the pool.
  • Visible and quickly accessible water rescue equipment, such as a rescue hook pole and life buoy, as well as a list of emergency phone numbers, a wireless phone and CPR instructions.

A three-minute video on pool safety produced by the City in collaboration with the Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Team is available for on demand viewing on the City’s website at www.diamondbarca.gov/videos , and on the City’s official YouTube Page www.youtube.com/diamondbarca by entering “pool safety” into the search channel bar.

To obtain a copy of the City’s fencing standards for installing a new pool or spa, visitwww.diamondbarca.gov/poolstandards or call the Building & Safety Division at 909.839.7020.