The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link The Weekly News 01.10.15 to access the complete Weekly News January 10th issue in pdf format.
Category Archives: Diamond Bar
Forecast For Diamond Bar: Snow!
Staff Reports
Diamond Bar – Unlike the weatherman, we know exactly when it’s going to snow in the City of Diamond Bar. Winter Snow Fest is coming!
On Sat., Jan. 17, 2015, Pantera Park will be transformed into a glorious winter wonderland. From 9am until 3pm, this fun family festival will feature a snow play area including four snow hills; a children’s craft area, games and food booths, and lots of fun!
Admission to the Winter Snow Fest is free of charge. Sleds will be provided for the snow runs, but children should be bundled appropriately and must wear closed-toed shoes. $5 wristbands will be available for unlimited sledding fun. Tickets are also available for the game area; just $1 to play four games.
This is a cash-only event, and non-profit community service organizations are participating by operating the food, game and craft booths. The music and drama departments at local schools, as well as children’s performing groups, have been invited to entertain at this festival.
Pantera Park is located at 738 Pantera Drive in Diamond Bar. For more information, contact the Community Services Department at (909) 839-7070, or visit http://www.diamondbarca.gov/wintersnowfest.
So dig out the warm scarves, mittens and boots, and join in the frozen fun of Diamond Bar’s Winter Snow Fest! This is a great opportunity to get the community together and kick of the New Year with style.
Diamond Bar: Quail Summit Student Wins National Chess Tournament
By Kelli Gile
Quail Summit student Jonathan Chen beat first grade challengers from different states and won the title at the National K-12 Championship in Orlando.
Diamond Bar – A 6-year old from Quail Summit Elementary has garnered the title of national champion. Jonathan Chen, a first grade student, represented his school during the National K-12 Championship held in Orlando, Florida. Chen won the first-grade division with a perfect 7-0 score. The contest was held December 12-14.
Players with the same scores were paired against each other during seven rounds of competition. Each grueling round could last more than three hours.
“I am very happy and very proud of the biggest trophy and national champion title for my school!” Chen exclaimed.
Chen hopes to start a chess club so that next year he can bring a team trophy back to the school.
The youngster from Diamond Bar has been playing chess for about two years. His father introduced the game to him at age 4. He’s had a coach since he was in kindergarten and earned the youngest champion award in the 2013 American Open.
Last June, Chen won the 3rd Place trophy in the International Youth Championship, under 14-year old division, held in Las Vegas.
A classmate asked Chen how he won all the games.
“I think it’s because I have more patience and more focus,” Chen replied.
Chang Appointed Vice-Chair Of Assembly Rules
Staff Reports
Sacramento – Assemblywoman Ling Ling Chang (R-Diamond Bar, 55th Assembly District) has been appointed to Vice-Chair of the influential Assembly Rules Committee. The appointment was part of a number of key committee appointments made by the Speaker of the Assembly.
“I am so honored to have the privilege to serve in a leading capacity on such an important committee,” said Chang. “What an amazing opportunity to work for Californians and my constituents.”
As Vice-Chair of the Assembly Rules Committee, Chang will play a leading role in the governing body of the Assembly, including jurisdiction over legislation and personnel. Assembly Rules influences the fate of every bill introduced in the Legislature given its important role of referring legislation to respective policy committees of the house.
“Ling Ling is a strong leader for streamlining government so it can better serve Californians,” said Assembly Republican Leader, Kristin Olsen. “She will be a powerful voice for commonsense leadership in her new role as Vice-Chair of the Assembly’s most powerful committee.”
Chang, the first Taiwanese-American Republican woman to be elected to the State Assembly, was first elected to the Diamond Bar City Council in November 2009 and served as the Mayor from 2011-2012. Before her election to the City Council, she held a variety of positions in local government, including service as President of the Walnut Valley Water District, and as a member of the Diamond Bar Parks & Recreation Commission. Chang brings business sector experience as well, developing software products for the health information management industry.
“I am so excited to get California back on track,” said Chang. We can have the best schools and more jobs if we all work together. Serving on the Assembly Rules Committee is a great opportunity to get that done.”
In addition to Rules, Assemblywoman Chang has been appointed as a member of the following committees: Appropriations, Business & Professions, and Privacy & Consumer Protection.
The 55th Assembly District contains parts of Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino Counties. It includes the cities of Diamond Bar, Walnut, Brea, La Habra, Placentia, Yorba Linda, and Chino Hills.
Diamond Bar: Chaparral Students “Keep It Moving”
By Kelli Gile
6th Grade students Karissa Wong and Joshua Chou won the Most Creative Design award at the JPL Keep It Moving contest on December 5. The students presented a school certificate to Principal Ron Thibodeaux. (photo courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Diamond Bar – Congratulations to Chaparral Middle School 6th Grade students, Karissa Wong and Joshua Chou, who won top awards in the recent “Keep It Moving” Jet Propulsion Lab (JPL) Design Competition.
The team brought home a 4th Place award at the regional contest on November 22 and advanced to the Finals held on December 5 at the Pasadena Center.
The Chaparral students competed among 20 teams at the Finals. Most were at the high school level, but that didn’t stop these determined middle school students.
Wong and Chou won 3rd Place and the Most Creative Design awards.
The objective of the Keep It Moving challenge was to invent a device to move a billiard ball between five to eight meters using three modes of transportation: gravity; any sort of spring; and a free choice of energy, such as a motor.
The students designed an upside-down rubber band catapult to push the ball up to the top of a 20-foot long rain gutter ramp. The ball had to be kept moving (spinning didn’t count) the entire time during the contest.
The billiard ball rolled down the ramp by gravity until it was blocked by a servomotor arm, which moved back and forth to keep the ball moving very slowly for timing accuracy. At a specific time, a computer commanded the arm to open up to allow the ball to continue to roll down and hit two triggering switches to turn on loud buzzers.
The entry also needed to initiate an audible sound by the ball, as close to 20 seconds as possible. The Chaparral students clocked an impressive 20.218 or 0.218 seconds over the 20-second mark!
What was the best part of the experience?
“We liked the meetings and practices at Chick-fil-A best!” the pair exclaimed.
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The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link The Weekly News 01.03.15 to access the complete Weekly News January 3rd issue in pdf format.
Big Boys And Big Toys
By Pastor Mark Hopper
Pastor Mark Hopper
Recently we had a Car & Cycle Meet at our church. Men were encouraged to bring their fancy cars and motorcycles to display on a Saturday morning.A few men signed up ahead of time, but I was surprised by how many cars and motorcycles came. In addition, a lot of other men came to view these beautiful and unique vehicles. I did not realize how many men in our church own and ride motorcycles. I think we have enough to form our own church motorcycle gang!
There were some expensive cars, too. A number of the cars were “classics” like the 1968 Chevy Camaro, and a 1965 Ford Mustang. There were some older cars, too, like the 1956 Cadillac. There were at least five Corvettes, as well. Most were newer models and they looked like they had rarely been driven. The guys really enjoyed viewing them.
As I reflected on our Saturday gathering, several thoughts came to mind. First, I wonder if the wives know what their husbands are hiding in the garage. Men often complain about how many clothes their wives have in their closet. Do the wives know what is in their husband’s “closet”?
Second, I realized that it may be true that the bigger the boys, the more expensive their toys. I don’t know what a 1965 Mustang or a 2014 Corvette is worth, but I’m sure those cars are not cheap. These are expensive toys.
And finally, it was fun to see how much the men enjoyed this event. Several times I overheard guys talking about cars that they used to own. My first car was a 1957 Chevy. I wish I still had it today!
Men in my generation seem to find it easy to talk about their cars. Maybe younger guys are more likely to be talking about their newest computer. This Car & Cycle Meet seemed to provide an opportunity for men to get to know more about each other. It was a fun day.
I suspect that we will do this type of event at our church again. Let me know if you have a car or motorcycle to show, and I will let you know when we will be doing another Car & Cycle Meet in the future.
Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Ave. Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit http://www.efreedb.org.
A Gift From The Heart Is Priceless
By Nancy Stoops
Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Times are tough for so many right now. I know the media makes us feel like we show our love by spending lots of money. It shows people giving diamonds and luxury cars and the message is that if you really love somebody, you’ll give them this type of gift. The truth is the most people don’t have that kind of money to spend on themselves, much less somebody else. Many people tell me they feel bad because they wish they had more money to spend this holiday season. Maybe I’m wrong, but the true meaning of the holiday is to spread love and kindness – and those things are free. There are many ways to show love and kindness. This time of year is about reminding all the special people in our lives how very much we appreciate them. I have many people every year besides my family and friends that I get a tiny gift for. I don’t spend too much, but they sure do appreciate my gesture.
I always love spending time with my family and friends, but this time of year is special because we all have time off and we have more time to be together. We love sharing meals together, singing songs, baking cookies, laughing, creating memories, taking pictures and getting all of the generations together. For us, the holidays are about having fun and just having more time to express our love for each other. We make sure to always make time for lots of hugs and kisses as well. Over the years I have made many gifts for friends and family. We are all very sentimental, so a gift from the heart is priceless in my family and doesn’t have to cost you a cent. Just enjoy the holiday season!
This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients. Nancy is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members. She runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger. For more information about any of these services, feel free to contact Nancy at (909) 229-0727; or you may e-mail her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books, Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.
What’s Happening In Walnut and Diamond Bar
Staff Reports
Walnut/Diamond Bar – There is much ado in the cities of Walnut and Diamond Bar. Here is some information from their websites to keep you in the know:
WALNUT
- Walnut Selfie Campaign: The City of Walnut wants to remind residents to shop locally! In order to promote local businesses, the City is conducting a “Selfie Walnut Businesses” campaign. To join in the fun, simply take a picture of yourself while you are shopping at local businesses, and email them to Derrick Womble at dwomble@ci.walnut.ca.us. Once they are reviewed, the Selfies will be posted to the City of Walnut’s Instagram, Twitter and Facebook pages (@CityofWalnut). The deadline to send pictures is Wed., Dec. 31, 2014. For more information, contact the Community Developmental Department at (909) 595-7543.
- Winter Wonderland Santa Pictures Are Up: Did you or your children take a picture with Santa at the Walnut Winter Wonderland on Dec. 13 at the Walnut Senior Center? Your pictures are now available for you to save! You can see your pictures on the City of Walnut Facebook page or go to cityofwalnut.com for a direct link to the pictures.
- Sandbags Available At City Yard: With the rain coming and going, keep in mind that you can pick up sandbags at the Walnut City Yard, located at 21701 East Valley Blvd., in Walnut.
DIAMOND BAR
- Sheriff’s Vacation Check Program: If you are planning to go out of town, take advantage of the Diamond Bar-Walnut Sheriff’s Station’s Vacation Check Service. A Sheriff’s deputy or trained Volunteer on Patrol will monitor your property, at least once a day while you are away, to check for evidence of possible forced entry or any other suspicious activity. This service is free, and Vacation Check Request Forms may be completed by visiting the Sheriff’s Station at 21695 E. Valley Blvd. in Walnut. For more information, call (909) 595-2264.
- 2015 Calendar and Street Sweeping Schedule Order Deadline: The deadline to order your City of Diamond Bar’s 2015 Calendar and Services Guide and magnetic Street Sweeping Schedule is approaching quickly. To receive one or both of these items by mail, place your request no later than Mon., Dec. 29 by visiting DiamondBarCA.gov/reservemycopy. If you do not have Internet access, you may call in your request to (909) 839-7054. For more information, visit ci.diamond-bar.ca.us.
Diamond Bar Council Recap 12.16.14
By Raymond Mendoza
Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met for the last time in 2014 and members also had a chance to bid former councilmember Ling Ling Chang farewell, as she leaves the City to take a seat in the California State Assembly.
After an invocation by Pastor Mark Hopper, the City Council members thanked Chang for her service to the City, wished her luck in her new position and presented her with the Diamond Bar City plaque to recognize her departure.
“You served the City faithfully, you participated in a lot of regional organizations on behalf of the City of Diamond Bar, and you made us proud,” Councilmember Carol Herrera said. “As you move on to other bigger and better things, we hope you will remember us.”
After the presentation to Chang, the schedule of future events was listed including the free shuttle service to and from the Diamond Bar Shopping Centers from now until Jan. 1, the cancellation of the Dec. 23 Planning Commission Meeting and Dec. 25 Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, the holiday closures for the City offices on Dec. 24 and 25, the holiday tree curbside collection program from Dec. 26 through Jan. 8, the late night transit pass sale on Dec. 30, the New Year’s holiday City office closure, the Jan. 6 City Council meeting, the Jan. 8 Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting, the Jan. 13 Planning Commission meeting and the Winter Show Fest on Jan. 17 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pantera Park.
The Council then moved on to approve its entire consent calendar including the minutes for the Dec. 2 City Council and Oct. 28 Planning Commission meetings, the ratification of check register in the amount of $539,573.75 dated Nov. 27 through Dec. 10, the approved reduction of 98.28 percent of the Surety Bond to complete grading and erosion control improvements and full exoneration of a surety bond to complete in a tract private storm drain improvement, to accept work performed by Green Building Corporation for construction of the Grand View Trail and the Grand View Trail Link, and approving cooperative agreement for Bridge Preventative maintenance work on Chino Hills Parkway.
The first item on the Council’s public hearing listing was an ordinance relating to parking of motor vehicles in City parks, with a City report claiming that some people are using park parking to leave their vehicles for extended amounts of time.
After hearing the problems arising from local parks, the City approved the first reading of the ordinance, restricting the usage of park parking lots to residents who are using the park.
The second and final public hearing was the approval of the Community Development Block Grant Program allocation, including $23,875 in the fiscal year 2015-16 and $87,020 from the unallocated balance of funds for the total amount of $290,895.
The final item of the meeting was for Mayor Steve Tye to ratify the appointments of specific representatives to the San Gabriel Council of Governments, including the California Contract City’s Association, Foothill Transit Board, Corners Transportation Policy Group, Greater Los Angeles Vector Control, Joint Powers Insurance Authority, LA County Sanitation District and others.
The Council approved the appointments and officially adjourned at 8:12 p.m. with its next meeting scheduled to take place on Jan. 5 in the Windmill Room of City Hall at 7 p.m.
It’s Holiday Tamale Time At The Whole Enchilada
Staff Reports
Diamond Bar – Christmas is just around the corner, so let the planning begin! The Whole Enchilada will be your holiday partner with dozens of possibilities including catering, a night away from cooking during this busy season, and delectable holiday tamales.
From delicious platters and entrée meals to taco bars, The Whole Enchilada offers fresh, authentic Mexican recipes their resident chef brought from their homeland. They guarantee you will enjoy your dining experience.
“All our food is made fresh daily,” says Lil Palmer of The Whole Enchilada. The restaurant has been in business for over 30 years, offering a variety of Mexican dishes ranging from enchiladas and burritos to carne asada and fajitas.
Planning a Christmas celebration? The Whole Enchilada can help cater your event with handmade tamales – which are available year round. This traditional holiday dish is sold by the dozen and is available in pork, beef, chicken, green chili and cheese. Other menu items, such as the taquito or street taco platters, are available for catering as well.
Whether it’s a holiday fiesta, business meetings or parties, promotions, fundraisers, birthdays, or just an evening out, The Whole Enchilada will dazzle you with their excellent customer service and delicious food. They look forward to helping you celebrate the special moments in your life.
If you are looking for a delicious treat after your meal, try The Whole Enchilada’s Mexican Kaluha Flan, Rio Grande Mud Pie, or popular Deep Fried Ice Cream.
The celebration doesn’t stop with just one visit. The Whole Enchilada has gift cards available for purchase in person or online. It’s the perfect Christmas stocking stuffer, or that special someone in your life. And be sure to ask The Whole Enchilada about the Combo Punch Card, Enchilada Bucks, and their Kids Club. With a wide variety of reasons to visit, it’s obvious that The Whole Enchilada wants to become your favorite restaurant.
Don’t deny your taste buds this holiday season, visit the Whole Enchilada soon!
The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., (at Grand Avenue, in Diamond Bar). You can reach them at (909) 861-5340, and visit their website at www.wholeenchilada.com. See their ad on the back page of this publication.
An Old Friend – Part II
By Pastor Mark Hopper
Pastor Mark Hopper
My wife and I have enjoyed the companionship of a loyal friend for many years. Her name was Molly.Our adult children found Molly at the local animal shelter at Christmas time, 15 years ago. She was huddled and shaking in the corner of a cage with several other dogs. They brought her home without asking for our permission. We really didn’t need a dog. Our kids had moved out and they were either working or in college. But, they thought we would be lonely. So they got us a dog.
Molly was about a year old when she entered our lives. She won our hearts immediately. She continued to enrich our lives for the next 15 years.
We had a daily ritual of taking a 15 to 20 minute walk around our block every morning and every evening. Rain or shine, summer or winter, we went for our walks.
When grandkids came to our house, Molly was kind and gentle. She was so excited to see these little people come for a visit, and they were glad to see her, too.
But Molly’s health began to fail over the past 12 months. She didn’t have the strength to go for walks around the block. It was a lot of effort for her to just walk out to the mailbox. As her appetite declined, she lost weight and strength. It was sad to see her struggle to get to her feet. We knew her days were numbered.
Although she never said a word, she communicated so much through her wagging tail and barks of enthusiasm and excitement. We knew what she was thinking by the look in her eyes and tilt of her head.
Words cannot describe how much we loved and enjoyed our faithful friend, Molly. She added so much to our lives. She will be missed.
Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Ave. Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit http://www.efreedb.org.
Diamond Bar High School’s Acciani Named Finalist For Music Educator Award
By Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High School Instrumental Music Director, Steve Acciani, has been named a finalist. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar High School Instrumental Music Director, Steve Acciani, has been named a finalist for the Grammy Music Educator Award. Ten teachers were selected from over 7,000 nominations around the country for their significant contributions to music education. Each finalist will receive $1,000 honorarium.
“We are extremely proud of the recognition that Mr. Acciani has earned from the Grammy Foundation. He is an inspirational music teacher and an integral part of who we are as a community. We are so happy for him!” said Principal Catherine Real.
This is Acciani’s 26th year teaching in the Walnut Valley Unified School District.
“I feel so fortunate to live and work in a community that recognizes the importance of the arts for our students. The school district and community continues to provide fantastic support for our programs, allowing us to do some pretty amazing things,” Acciani said.
While the Grammy ceremony is held to present artists with the recording industry’s most prestigious award, the Grammy Foundation and Recording Company will also honor one local hero. The winner will be announced during the 57th Annual Grammy Awards on February 8, 2015.
For the second year, the Grammy Music Educator Award will pay tribute to a special teacher for his/her remarkable impact on students. The winner will be flown to Los Angeles to accept the award, attend the Grammy Awards ceremony, and receive a $10,000 honorarium.
On November 11, Grammy honorary chairman and “American Idol” host, Ryan Seacrest, visited Diamond Bar High to congratulate Acciani on being named one of the 25 semifinalists for the award. Ford Motor Company was on hand that day hosting its Drive 4 UR School test-drive event to help raise money for the music program. Seacrest joined in the fun taking a test drive with two DBHS students.
Diamond Bar High was named the 2014 National Grammy Signature School, becoming the first high school in California to receive the prestigious award.
An Old Friend – Part I
By Pastor Mark Hopper
Pastor Mark Hopper
There is a remarkable woman in our church family who is now in her 90s. Her name is Louise.I met her several years ago. She is a close friend of a family at our church. She has a vibrant personality and a twinkle in her eye. She could play the piano with enthusiasm and always enjoyed the company of others.
In the last few years of her life, she has lived in an assisted living facility nearby. Many people would find this discouraging, but Louise has a very different attitude. She has impacted the caregivers and staff in many ways. Some would stop by to see her even before and after their shifts. She loves people and is always finding ways to encourage others.
Louise also has a heart for prayer. She faithfully prays for others and encourages others to pray, too. Before moving to the care home, she always attended the small prayer group at our church early on Sunday mornings.
Even though her body is wearing out, her mind is sharp and her handwriting is steady. Now that she has a breathing tube, Louise can no longer speak. But she still communicates by writing notes and she can carry on a conversation in this way.
Louise has a big fan club. A number of friends stop by to see her often. Recently, when I stopped by to see her, her friend and former pastor, was there, too. I was surprised that she had a gift for me. She gave me a book. I asked her to sign it so I can remember who gave it to me. With steady, clear handwriting she wrote her name in the book.
The purpose of my visit was to encourage Louise. But the result of my visit was that I left encouraged as well.
Let me encourage you to take time to call or visit an older friend in your life. They will appreciate your thoughtfulness and you will be encouraged, too!
Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Ave. Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit http://www.efreedb.org.
New Mayor: Diamond Bar Council Recap
By Raymond Mendoza
Diamond Bar City Hall
(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)
Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar City Council met Tues., Dec. 2 for its regular meeting, which saw a new Mayor and Mayor Pro Tem appointed to serve the City for the next year, and the Council considerations to fill the vacancy left behind when council member Ling-Ling Chang joined the California Assembly.
The Council appointed Steve Tye as the new Mayor of Diamond Bar, with Nancy Lyons appointed as the City’s Mayor Pro Tem.
After the appointments, former Mayor, Carol Herrera, gave an outgoing presentation, as Tye presented her with a gavel to commemorate her service. Tye, Lyons and council member Jack Tanaka thanked the outgoing Mayor for her dedication and congratulated her on completing her fifth mayoral term in office – a feat that Tye said has not been accomplished in Diamond Bar’s history.
“It’s been my very great pleasure to be Mayor this particular last year since it was the City’s 25th Anniversary and there were so many memorable events,” Herrera said. “I just feel very privileged to have been able to be the Mayor this year.”
Following Herrera’s presentation, City Manager James DeStefano gave a presentation for the City’s windmill dedication. DeStefano called the windmill an “icon of historical significance” based on the City’s agricultural history.
After the presentation, the City’s schedule of future events was listed to include the Holiday Diamond Ride for free shuttle service to and from the Diamond Bar Shopping Centers through Jan. 1, 2015; the Planning Commission on Dec. 9; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Dec. 11; the City Council meeting on Dec. 16; cancellations for the Parks and Recreation meeting on Dec. 25 and Planning Commission meeting on Dec. 23; City office closures on Dec. 24 and 25; holiday tree curbside collection program on Dec. 26; and the Late Night Transit Pass sale on Dec. 30 at 7 p.m. at Diamond Bar City Hall.
The Council then approved all items on its consent calendar, including the minutes for the City Council meeting on Nov. 18 and the Parks and Recreation Commission on Oct. 23; the ratification of a check register totaling $1,392,233.64; the Treasurer’s monthly statement for October; the approval of plans and specifications and establishing a project pavement account, waive bid irregularities, and award construction contract for the 2014-2015 Community Development Block Grant Area 2 Sidewalk Installation Project to TSR Construction and Inspection in the amount of $124,420 and a contingency amount of $31,105; and the approval for the updated Sanitary Sewer Management Plan.
The Council’s public hearing item concerning the prohibition of medical marijuana dispensaries in Diamond Bar was continued from the Nov. 18 City Council meeting due to a lack of votes needed for approval.
And the final item of the City Council agenda was the consideration for the open seat vacated by councilwoman Chang, which would need to be filled within 60 days of Dec. 1. DeStefano said the council members must either appoint a new council member, or hold an election to fill the vacancy until Chang’s term is up in November 2017.
Since an election would cost tax payers approximately $150,000, the council members were keen on appointing a candidate based on applications from Diamond Bar residents.
“I think it makes greater sense to accept applications starting today (Dec. 2) through Dec. 19…,” Herrera said. “We’ll take what we got and I would almost venture to say that there would be a lot of applications.”
Newly minted Mayor Tye said he was certain that the Council would receive an ample amount of applications for the vacancy and that saving money for the City would be in the best interest of all Diamond Bar residents.
“I’m leaning toward appointing someone to fill the position because of the high costs for a special election,” Tye said. “People elect us to make difficult decisions, so I think we should interview candidates and appoint someone ourselves.”
The City Council members then approved a motion to accept applications through Dec. 19 for the position, conduct candidate interviews, and hold a special City Council meeting before Jan. 30, 2015 to select the new council member.
The Council then adjourned with plans to meet on Dec. 16 at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.
Diamond Bar: Brahma Golfers Sign College Letters Of Intent
By Kelli Gile
Congratulations to Brahma golfers, Sahith Theegala and Jefferson Kao, who have signed national letters of intent. Shown with Coach Ty Watkins and Principal Catherine Real.
Diamond Bar – Two Diamond Bar High School varsity boys’ golfers have signed national college letters of intent.
Senior Sahith Theegala will attend Pepperdine University, and senior Jefferson Kao will attend University of California, Irvine in the fall.
“It’s exciting and kind of unbelievable,” Kao said about the receiving the athletic scholarship.
Theegala and Kao have been varsity players since their freshman year.
“Entering the Brahma team, we already knew all the players. It was like a big family because we played junior golf,” Kao explained. “Our goal was to help each other improve, improve as a team, and to play our best.”
Kao first picked up the clubs at 6-years of age, and they were the plastic ones. Now 17, he is excited about his decision to play at UC Irvine.
“I’m happy with the team, I already feel like it’s a family.”
Theegala said he only needed to look at a few colleges before making his decision.
“It feels awesome,” Theegala said after the signing day. “Pepperdine met all my requirements and the coaches are amazing,” the 16-year old said. He’ll be 17 in a week.
Theegala agreed that the long-term golf relationships helped the Brahma team.
“We all knew each other coming here and kind of fed off each other. And when the golf season starts we have so much fun. It goes by too fast!”
“The Diamond Bar Golf Program has had some great success over the past few years, mostly due to the great accomplishments of Sahith Theegala and Jefferson Kao,” praised Coach Ty Watkins.
The DBHS Boys Golf Team was named 2012 League Champions, CIF Champions, 2013 League Champions, CIF Champions, 2014 League Champions, and CIF Runner-ups.
“The Varsity Boys Golf Team has been riding on the coat tails of these two extraordinary young men, we are hoping to make one more run at a CIF title, and maybe even a run at a CIF State championship, like the Diamond Bar Girls team. Our team is incredibly excited for Sahith and Jefferson, and we know the Pepperdine community of Malibu and the Irvine community will benefit because of these two wonderful men,” said Watkins.
Diamond Bar: Read Together Diamond Bar 2014
By Kathleen Newe
Friends of Diamond Bar Library Essay Contest Winners (L-R) Jiachen Jiang, Alexandra Sakkis, and Stephon Sutphin, receiving awards from Law Librarian of Congress, David S. Mao.(Photo Courtesy: Paul Gonzalez)
Diamond Bar – Read Together Diamond Bar 2014 was a resounding success for literacy in the community. There were many interesting events planned during October and the community participation was great. Thanks to all who participated in any of the events.
The winning book for Read Together Diamond Bar 2014 was True Notebooks: A Writer’s Year at Juvenile Hall by Mark Salzman. In 1997, bestselling author, Salzman, paid a reluctant visit to a writing class at the Los Angeles Central Juvenile Hall, a lockup for violent teenage offenders, many of them charged with murder. What he found so moved and astonished him that he began to teach there regularly. In voices of indelible emotional presence, the boys wrote about what led them to crime and about the lives that stretch ahead of them behind bars. We see them coming to terms with their crime-ridden pasts and searching for a reason to believe in their future selves.
On Wed., Oct. 1, there was an interesting panel discussion on our juvenile justice system hosted by the American Association of University Women. The panel included the Honorable Geanene Yriarte, Superior Court Judge; Sgt. Carl Miedema of the Baldwin Park School Police Department; Dr. Amer Holmes, Psychologist; and Ms. Patricia Hattersley, Attorney at Law, and specialist in criminal representation. As experienced professionals in their field, each offered a unique perspective on the juvenile justice system and how it affects our communities.
Wed., Oct. 8 was Open Mic for Children, with a talent show for ages 4 to 11 sharing their favorite stories or songs.
Wed., Oct. 15 was Movie Night at the Library, where families enjoyed the powerful 1988 American drama film – Stand and Deliver – based on the true story of high school math teacher, Jaime Escalante, starring Edward James Olmos.
On Wed., Oct. 22, the Friends joined with the Diamond Bar AAUW for a book discussion of True Notebooks, which was informative and entertaining.
On Sat., Oct. 18, David S. Mao, Law Librarian of Congress, spoke on “Serving Digital Natives in Libraries Today.” Through the courtesy of Congressman Ed Royce (CA-39), Mao visited Diamond Bar to help celebrate Read Together Diamond Bar and the 25th Birthday of the City of Diamond Bar.
“Public libraries that move forward with the technology of the day will continue to attract students eager to learn, and Mr. Mao shares my passion for ensuring that the next generation of Americans has the resources they need to excel academically,” said Royce.
One exciting part of the visit of Mr. Mao was the “A Book That Changed My Life” essay contest, open to students, ages 13 to 18. The Diamond Bar Friends offered Kindles to the top three entries. First place winner, Jiachen Jiang, a student at Troy High School, wrote a heartfelt letter to Sir Terry Pratchett. In second place, Alexandra Sakkis, a student at the University of California Riverside, wrote her letter to Suzanne Collins. Troy Academy student, Stephon Sutphin, was the third place winner, who wrote to J.K. Rowlings, thanking her for introducing him to Harry Potter. The three winning essays are displayed at the Diamond Bar Library.
Read Together Diamond Bar is a community-wide project open to individuals, companies and other organizations with many opportunities to participate. The Diamond Bar Friends of the Library is already planning for Read Together Diamond Bar 2015, next October. We encourage you to be part of this exciting community project. For more information, please call (909) 629-2711.
Something Smells Good
By Pastor Mark Hopper
Pastor Mark Hopper
Experts say that we associate smells with specific events or memories in our lives. For example, the scent of pine trees reminds me of summer camping trips in the mountains of Arizona. A salty ocean breeze reminds me of trips with my parents to the beaches of Southern California when I was a little guy. And the smell of waffle cones reminds me of walking down Main Street in Disneyland on vacation when my own children were young.
What comes to your mind when you pick up a familiar scent or smell? It may be the smell of a rose in your backyard or the blossoms of a fruit tree at the house next door. One of my favorite scents at this time of year is the orange blossoms on the trees in our backyard. They are filled with blossoms right now and they smell so good!
The smell of orange blossoms takes me back to where I grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona. There were orange groves next to the elementary school I attended, and there were orange groves near the Little League baseball fields where we spent so many hours. My wife grew up in a home that had over 20 citrus trees right on their property. The scent this time of year is almost overwhelming; I have a lot of fond memories.
What are your favorite scents and smells? What memories do they bring to your mind?
I am convinced that God created all the color, texture, sounds and smells for us to enjoy. I hope you will stop and smell the roses or the orange blossoms you encounter today.
Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Ave. Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit http://www.efreedb.org.
Diamond Bar Council Recap
BY RAYMOND MENDOZA
Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar City Council members met for the final time in November for a regular meeting, but were unable to extend the City’s ordinance to prohibit medical marijuana dispensaries because of a lack of voting members. Council members Ling-Ling Chang and Jack Tanaka were absent from the meeting.
To start, Mayor Carol Herrera presented Ted Robinson, owner of Robinson Properties, with the Business of the Month Award for November 2014. Herrera cited Robinson’s years of service to the community and local economy as the reason for his recognition.
Following Robinson’s recognition and public comments, the Council listed the City’s future events for the Walnut Valley Water District Public Meeting on Nov. 19, the Historic Windmill dedication on Nov. 20, the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Nov. 20, the Grand View Trail opening on Nov. 22, the Planning Commission meeting on Nov. 25, the City closures during Thanksgiving on Nov. 27 and 28, the Holiday Diamond Ride – which gives free shuttle rides to and from Diamond Bar shopping centers from Nov. 28 through Jan. 1 – and the City Council meeting on Dec. 2
The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar including the minutes for the Nov. 4 study session and Nov. 4 regular meeting, the Oct. 14 Planning Commission meeting, a ratification for a check register totaling $783,157.58, transmittal of a comprehensive annual financial report for the year ending June 30, approval of a contract amendment with Fehr and Peers for an intersection improvement strategies study at Grand Avenue/Diamond Bar Boulevard and Brea Canyon Road/Pathfinder Road in the amount of $14,670 plus a contingency amount for $2,000, and the approval of a contract amendment with RKA Consulting Group for preparation of an application package in association with the 2015 Metro Call for projects in the amount of $19,800.
The Council’s only public hearing item was an ordinance extending urgency Ordinance No. (03)2014 suspending Chapter 8.26 of the Diamond Bar Municipal Code and prohibiting the operation and establishment of medical marijuana dispensaries.
According to City Manager, James DeStefano, the Council could not approve the item, since the passage required a 4/5 vote. Since Council Members Chang and Tanaka were not present, DeStefano recommended that the item be carried over to the Dec. 2 City Council meeting. The Council then approved the motion to move the item to its next meeting.
Following the Council’s reports and comments, they adjourned at 7:20 p.m. with plans to meet on Dec. 2 in the Diamond Bar City Council Chambers at 21810 Copley Drive.
Diamond Bar: Ryan Seacrest Celebrates DB High School Music Director
STAFF REPORTS
Diamond Bar High School senior flutist, Bridget Pei, took a test drive with Ryan Seacrest during the Drive 4UR School fundraiser on Nov. 11. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Diamond Bar – “American Idol” Host, Ryan Seacrest, came to Diamond Bar High School to celebrate Instrumental Music Director, Steve Acciani, a national semifinalist for the Grammy Music Educator Award.
The Grammy Foundation and Ford Motor Company presented the special event on November 11.
KIIS-FM – with Manny on the Streets – entertained families with concert tickets, CD give-a-ways, and line dances as they awaited the celebrity’s arrival. The DBHS Color Guard and Band performed “Happy” when Seacrest arrived before a huge crowd of fans at 1 p.m.
Seacrest, the Honorary Grammy Foundation Chair, greeted music teacher Acciani on stage.
“We want to congratulate you and thank you for all you do,” Seacrest said.
Acciani said that he was a bit nervous speaking in front of the crowd.
“I usually have my back to the audience,” the Music Director quipped.
Acciani said that he was extremely grateful for the support of the program.
“I think the whole community embraces what the arts can do for our students and they’re incredibly supportive. It adds so much academically and gives the students a way to express themselves.”
The event featured 700 instrumental music students who played during the fundraising festival.
DBHS partnered with Ford Motor Company and Fairway Ford for the Drive 4 UR School national test drive program to help raise money for the school’s outstanding music program. During the one-day event, $20 (up to $6,000) was donated for every person who test-drove one of the 2015 models including the Flex, Fusion, F-150, Escape, Explorer, and C-MAX.
Two excited Brahmas were plucked from the audience to go on a test drive with Seacrest.
“It was fantastic! He’s a great guy,” exclaimed senior Will Nazareno, a 17-year old tuba player after the ride of his life. Nazareno then described his award-winning music teacher.
“Mr. Acciani is such a pride for Diamond Bar High!” he said. “He helps us with everything we do; he guides us, and serves as our light.”
Senior flutist, Bridget Pei, drove to the local In-N-Out with the television star.
“I got a cheeseburger and Ryan got the healthy choice, a protein burger.” The crew at In-N-Out was a little shaken up by the surprise visit, she explained.
“They were so excited that when they gave us the change, they dropped the money, so we had to go outside and get it.”
Pei is thrilled her teacher received the national award.
“There’s no other band director in the entire world that deserves it more that he does. Mr. A (as he is known) dedicates his heart and soul into this program.”
The community lined up to support the Drive 4 UR School program.
“Anything I can do to help raise money for the school, I’m willing to do. And to test drive a car is a great opportunity to try out a new vehicle,” said DBHS English teacher Stacy Tenace.
“I’m excited about any creative ways they can raise funds for the kids. So this is great!” said band parent, Sam Ocon, just before driving a new Ford Fusion.
Several guest musicians joined the Commercial Music Program rock band performance including Dramarama singer, John Easdale, and Oingo Boingo drummer, Johnny Vatos.
One of the day’s highlights was when Acciani played the saxophone during the classic, “Dead Man’s Party.”
Acciani was selected as one of 25 semifinalists out of more than 7,000 nominations from all 50 states. The Music Educator Award recognizes educators who have made a significant and long lasting contribution to music education in the schools.
Finalists will be named in December. The national winner will be announced live at the Grammy Awards in February.
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