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Category Archives: Diamond Bar
Inland Empire/San Gabriel Valley: Calendar of Events 04/05/2014
STAFF REPORTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
Discover How to Become A “Road Scholar” with Free Seminar
When: April 7, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Air Quality Management District, 21865 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar
Details: Come to this free seminar and learn about Road Scholar – America’s first, and world’s largest educational, not-for-profit travel organization for adults. The speaker will be Jill Swaim.
Contact: Diamond Bar/Walnut Branch of American Association of University Women at diamondbarwalnut-ca.aauw.net
2014 Public Health Expo
When: April 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument (Olvera Street) at 125 Paseo de la Plaza
Details: FREE health screenings, free pet vaccinations, and services. Learn about: immunizations, women’s health, nutrition, and other health information. Live entertainment: Mariachi Los Toros, Groov3 dancing, yoga, and more.
Contact: dial 2-1-1 or visit http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov.
Diamond Bar Birthday Celebration
When: Saturday, April 12 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pantera Park, 738 Pantera Drive, Diamond Bar
Contact: (909) 839-7000
DBHS Spring Musical “The Pirates of Penzance”
When: April 24, 25, 26 and May 1,2, 3 at 7 p.m.
Where: DBHS Theatre at 21400 E. Pathfinder Road in Diamond Bar
Details: Tickets sales are available at http://www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama. Sections B, C, D: Adults are $18, Students w/ID are $15. Sections A, E: Adults are $15, Students w/ID are $12.
Contact: Beatrice Casagran at (909) 594-1405 ext. 33276
Diamond Bar AYSO: Registration ages 4 to 18 years of age.
When: April 24, May, May 15, and June 3, 2014 at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Pantera Park
Details: Please visit DBAYSO.ORG for registration procedures for both volunteers and players ages 4 to 18.
Contact: Greg M. Busch, R31_Safety@dbayso.org
21th Annual Diamond Bar Library Wine Soirée
When: Sunday, April 27
Where: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue in Diamond Bar
Details: An afternoon of delicious food from local restaurants, great wine from the Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition, music, and exciting book, silent and live auctions. A unique souvenir wine glass and program are included with each ticket. All of the proceeds go directly to your local community library.
Cost: Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $60 at the door.
Contact: (909) 861-2002
FUTURE EVENTS:
Walnut Senior Center Peddler’s Market
When: May 3 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Walnut Senior Center
Details: Residents are encouraged to clean out those cupboards, closets, garages and become a vendor at the annual Peddler’s Market. Vendors may purchase two full parking spaces for $35 or three full parking spaces for $50.
Contact: Kim Watts at the Walnut Senior Center at 909-598-6200.
OPARC’s Heart and Sole: Fun Run 1K/5K and health fair
When: June 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Ruben S. Ayala Park, 5575 Edison Ave., Chino CA 91710
Cost: Entry fee for runners/walkers is $20, inspiration signs are $50, vendor booths are $150 and additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Free parking
Details: OPARC, a 501(c)(3) organization that trains, employs an serves the mentally disabled community. Food vendors, vendor booths, participant awards, music, guest appearances, and more. Walk-ins are welcome.
WEEKLY EVENTS:
Bookstore Blowout
Where: Twice Sold Tale Bookstore located at the Walnut Library, La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789
When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Details: All books and media: any four items for $1. $1 minimum purchase.
Contact: (909) 595-0757 or email the.walnut.library@mac.com.
Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS
When: second Tuesdays of every month.
Where: Basically BOOKS locations: at 23447 Golden Springs Road, Diamond Bar and at the Diamond Bar Library: 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.
Details: Books and education videos will be offered at special discounts for teachers at all levels. Teachers can sign up at either Basically BOOKS locations or email BasicallyBOOKS@aol.com to join these special teacher appreciate afternoons.
Free Acupuncture for veterans, active military, first responders
When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.
Where: 12598 Central Ave. Unit 113, Chino CA 91710.
Cost: Free
Contact: (909) 590-4183 or http://www.healingcirclecommunityacupuncture.com
Jack Newe’s Farmers Market sponsored by SGV Regional Chamber of Commerce
When: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Mt. San Antonio College Campus, Parking Lot B, 1100 N. Grand Avenue, Walnut CA 91789
Cost: Admission/parking free
Features: seasonal organic produce, breads and cakes, olive oils, cheese and spreads, a variety of nursery plants, hand-crafted items and jewelry, and fresh-popped Kettle corn and grilled food plates.
Contact: (909) 869-0701
Diamond Bar: Council Corner – Gridlock Fix
BY ARIEL CARMONA JR.
Diamond Bar – On their meeting April 1, the Diamond Bar City Council heard an update from City staff on a $256 million multi-phase project designed to improve the existing 57/60 freeway interchange bottleneck, and also received an update on the Grand Avenue Beautification project, estimated at more than $1 million.
According to information provided by City staff, the 2.5 mile interchange stretch where the 57 and 60 freeways meet, ranks as the third most congested in California, and seventh worst in the nation. With funding from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and the City of Industry, the project will be completed in three phases based upon the results of a feasibility study completed in 2008 to evaluate fixes and improvements.
The first phase consists of construction of a $16. 6 million westbound on-ramp at Grand Avenue, estimated to start in November 2015. Phase 2A consists of a fully funded $14 million street widening improvement in the vicinity of Grand Avenue and Golden Springs Drive. Phase 2B is the construction of a $20 million westbound freeway off-ramp and an auxiliary lane to Grand Avenue. And the final phase consists of freeway mainline improvements and bypass connectors valued at more than $200 million, with an environmental impact report certified last December.
According to a presentation by City staff, because the freeways were built in the early 70s, the forced merging of the two major freeways was made necessary by the valley shaped terrain dividing the area. At present, hundreds of thousands of drivers struggle through the confluence every day struggling to deal with all the lane merging required by a design that is almost 40 years old.
The presentation also stated that the results are “unacceptable levels of congestion, accidents and air pollution. The 57/60 confluence is a vital link in Southern California’s transportation network. Every year more than 100 million commercial and private vehicles pass through, as does $375 billion worth of goods going through to the Los Angeles area. However, almost 80 percent of those goods are consumed outside of Southern California which means that the problems caused by this stretch of roadway impact not just local and regional tax payers and businesses, but also interstate commerce on a state and national level.”
According to a report made public by David Liu, Director of Public Works, the cost of missing components to the project include freeway connectors, and High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) connectors totaling more than $500 million, which are contingent on additional resources and funds. To date, staff has secured a $100,000 grant from Caltrans and other partners to fund an updated feasibility study valued between $300,000 and $400,000.
Members of the Council and City staff met with U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Anthony Foxx, and other dignitaries on March 21 to personally inspect the area and to make the federal government aware of the problem.
“We are trying to stress to the representatives across the nation, that this isn’t just a Diamond Bar problem, a San Gabriel Valley problem, or a California problem; this is a problem for the rest of the nation. The longer it (goods) gets held up here in this choke point, the longer it takes to get to its destination and the more expensive the goods will be. They understand that and hopefully the funding will come soon and we can get to work on fixing it,” said Mayor Carol Herrera.
In other matters, the Council heard a presentation regarding an update on the Grand Avenue Beautification project, which among other improvements to the City, will include streetscape enhancements to the intersections at Grand Avenue, Diamond Bar Boulevard, and Longview Drive.
On March 19, the City conducted an Open House for the community of residents and local business owners to learn more about the project. According to the presentation, a total of 53 attendees, including 40 residents, participated to provide input on the design concepts.
Residents surveyed voted for the inclusion of decorative street lights and traffic signal lights, and also requested pedestrian safety improvements at crosswalks including upgraded pedestrian crossing signage with countdown indicators and audio enhancements for the visually impaired, and more landscape improvements. Construction for the project is expected to be completed by December of this year.
During the City Manager’s report portion of the meeting, the Council heard a presentation on cyber crime by Mark Stevens from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department warning residents to be aware of the various types of cyber crime including hacking, identity theft and medical ID theft, among others.
The Council also voted 5-0 to approve a packed consent calendar which included their Treasurer’s statement from the Finance Department, and an authorization for City Manager, James DeStefano, to extend vendor services for entertainment related activities in an amount not to exceed $30,000 for the City’s 25th Birthday Party, scheduled for April 12.
The next meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council is scheduled for Tuesday, April 15, 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive.
Sheriff’s Booster Club Annual Golf Classic
Photo Courtesy: Google Images
Western Hills Country Club, Chino Hills
Staff Reports
The Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club is hosting their Annual Golf Classic on Monday, April 7, at the Western Hills Country Club in Chino Hills (1800 Carbon Canyon Road).
According to Captain Jeff Scroggin of the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station, the Sheriff’s Booster Club is a non-profit organization whose sole purpose is to provide much needed equipment and logistical support to the Volunteers, Explorers, Reserve Deputy Sheriffs and Disaster Communication Specialists. Station Volunteers provide thousands of hours to help uphold the mission of the department and serve the community. Your tax deductible donation or sponsorship will help purchase equipment and supplies for all of the Volunteer Programs to be successful.
This year’s Annual Golf Classic is dedicated to the President of the Walnut-Diamond Sheriff’s Booster Club, Dr. Jeffrey Lowe, who passed away recently. Dr. Lowe, who was a local chiropractor, spent countless hours in support of the community as a former Diamond Bar Rotary President, past board member of the Diamond Bar Chamber of Commerce, and local business man. He was also a San Bernardino County Sheriff Reserve Deputy for over 20 years.
Tournament registration will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m., and shotgun start will begin at 11:30 a.m. An awards luncheon will immediately follow the tournament, where all tee prizes will be awarded. Golf competitions include Longest Drive, Closest to the Pin, and Hole-in-One.
Sponsorship opportunities include: Platinum Sponsor for $3,000; Gold Sponsor for $2,000; and Silver Sponsor for $1,000 (these packages include golf rounds and recognition). There are additional sponsorship opportunities available.
For more information on sponsorships or to register to play in this very special tournament, contact Booster Club Member, Gil Rivera at (909) 967-4525, or Gil.Rivera@verizon.net.
Job job job: Executive Assistant
Executive Assistant – Eastvale Chamber of Commerce (Eastvale)
compensation: $16-$18/ Hour DOE
contract job part-time
non-profit organization app deadline 4/7
Executive Assistant to the Board
Job Summary:
Assist the Board of Directors with the overall running of the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce.
Oversee the planning, marketing and execution of all Chamber events. Act as the liaison between
all Chamber members and the BOD to communicate member wants and needs as well as member
feedback.
Essential Functions:
1. Responsible for accounting functions including billing and membership accounting, preparing deposits, accounts payable and receivable, payroll, generating financial reports, completing tax forms and other financial record keeping. QuickBooks is utilized for accounting functions.
2. Oversee the planning, marketing and execution of all Chamber events (i.e. Morning and Evening Mixers, Quarterly events, Ribbon Cuttings, Grand Openings, etc.)
3. Coordinate and facilitate bi-weekly Board Meetings by creating the meeting agenda and recording minutes that are to be distributed no later than the Tuesday after each Board meeting.
4. Must attend and emcee ALL Chamber hosted events listed above.
5. Must work in conjunction with the Ambassador Co-Chairs in order to coordinate Ambassador volunteer help at Chamber events.
6. Must work in conjunction with the Marketing Assistant/Recruiter to recruit and retain new and existing members and volunteers.
7. Work in conjunction with the Marketing Assistant/ Recruiter to manage the Chamber Website and online media presence.
8. Maintain Chamber brand image by presenting oneself as well as the organization in a professional and distinguished manner.
9. Maintain exceptional customer service for all current and potential members by acting as the point person for all Chamber inquiries as well as assisting members with questions and concerns.
10. Operate and maintain the Chamber business phone during normal business operating hours.
11. Properly relay information to the correct Board Member for expedited responses to ensure that all Chamber matters are being handled effectively and in a time-bound manner.
*May be required to perform other duties as assigned by the Board of Directors or Chamber Support Staff
Requirements:
• Must be able to dedicate a minimum of 25-28 hours per week to Chamber focused initiatives
• Must submit invoices in an accurate and timely manger (Bi-Monthly — 1st & 15th )
• Must attend 85% of Chamber functions throughout the year
• Must have proficiency in QuickBooks and Microsoft Office Suite
• Must have a background in one of the following:
o Marketing
o Public Relations
o Management
o Communications
o Human Resources
o Customer Service
Purpose:
The purpose of the Executive Assistant to the Board is to bridge the gap between the members of the Chamber and the Board of Directors. This position is to act as the point person for all questions, comments and concerns while redirecting members and potential members to the right resources for their needs. The Executive Assistant to the Board is to be seen as the face to the Chamber and should spearhead all current Chamber events as well as provide new and innovative events that build membership value and Chamber membership base.
Respond to this link:
http://inlandempire.craigslist.org/ofc/4398146558.html
Diamond Bar: Medical Marijuana Dispensaries Officially Banned
Photo Courtesy: Google Images
Diamond Bar – At their March 18 meeting, the Diamond Bar City Council unanimously approved an ordinance repealing and replacing a chapter of the municipal code, thereby prohibiting the operation and establishment of medical marijuana dispensaries.
The Council was introduced to the ordinance at a previous meeting and heard a second reading on the proposed ordinance at Tuesday night’s meeting, where City Manager, James DeStefano, and City staff recommended approval.
“While the use of medical marijuana is no longer a crime in California, the establishment and operation of retail medical marijuana dispensaries remains illegal under both state and federal law. To manage this conflict and retain local control, the City Council approved the first reading of Ordinance 04(2014), which permanently prohibits dispensaries from operating in Diamond Bar,” wrote Ryan McLean, Deputy City Manager, in a report prepared for the Council.
The Ordinance, however, was opposed by at least one group, who wrote to City Hall protesting the passage of the law on environmental grounds, and that enactment would prevent local medical marijuana patients from attaining their treatment without having to travel greater distances.
“The ordinance will have a significant effect on the environment and the City has failed to mitigate these impacts as required under CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act),” wrote James Shaw, Executive Director of the Union of Medical Marijuana Patients (UMMP) in his letter to the City, dated March 3.
According to Shaw’s letter, UMMP is a not-for-profit civil rights organization that is devoted to defending and asserting the rights of medical cannabis patients. The non-profit also impugned City officials for committing to a particular approach toward regulating medical marijuana, stating it is, “…an extremely restrictive approach that, among other things, requires thousands of patients to drive outside the City to obtain their medicine because medical dispensaries are not allowed in the City.”
Shaw’s arguments were reputed in a memorandum made public by City Attorney, David DeBerry, dated March 10. DeBerry addressed the Shaw letter’s contention that an estimated 1,127 medical marijuana patients would have to drive to Pico Rivera, which is 22.6 miles away, and allegedly the nearest dispensary. This would result in more than 2.6 million miles of additional travel and generation of tons of additional greenhouse gas emissions.
DeBerry wrote that outside the fact that the environmental effects alleged in the letter “are highly speculative” and the fact that a quick search on the Internet discovered two medical marijuana dispensaries in the adjacent city of Pomona, DeBerry writes that the primary problem with the Shaw letter analysis is a misunderstanding of the effects of the ordinance in relation to CEQA.
“If anything, the Shaw letter is evidence that permitting a medical marijuana dispensary to open in the City could have significant environmental impacts when measured against the existing environmental setting and should the City permit a medical marijuana dispensary, it suggests a CEQA analysis be required,” DeBerry wrote.
Shaw’s letter also addressed mobile dispensaries, which are illegal in Diamond Bar. “It is reasonably foreseeable that mobile medical marijuana dispensaries currently operating in the City may cease to operate and patients may travel to visit…dispensaries or cultivate their own medicine in their homes; cultivation of medical marijuana, an inherently agricultural activity, especially in a residential setting, is and of itself contemplates environmental impacts which the City has failed to analyze,” wrote Shaw.
The next regularly scheduled City Council meeting is to be held on April 1, 6:30 p.m., in the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, at 21865 Copley Drive.
Diamond Bar: City Council Corner
Photo Courtesy: Google Images
BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR.
Diamond Bar – The City Council had their regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday, March 19. Mayor Herrera, Mayor Pro-Tem Tye, and Council members Chang, Lyons and Tanaka were present. The invocation was given by Monsignor James Loughnane from St. Denis Catholic Church.
A main focus of the meeting was the ordinance to repeal and replace a chapter of the municipal code prohibiting the operation and establishment of medical marijuana dispensaries, which was unanimously approved by the Council. For details on the ordinance, please see the article on this page.
In other Council actions, a public hearing was held on a resolution to approve the subdivision of a 21-unit office condominium, and to modify the exterior façade of an existing two-story professional office building located at 1470 Valley Vista Drive.
The Council also discussed the Open House held on March 19, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Windmill Community Room, addressing the Grand Avenue Beautification Project. The City has collected more than $1 million in resources for the project, including a $700,000 grant.
The next regularly scheduled City Council meeting will be held on Tuesday, April 1, at 6:30 p.m. in the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, at 21865 Copley Drive.
Diamond Bar: Quail Summit Receives Tree Donation
BY KELLI GILE
Senior Field Rep, Jody Roberto, presented a Certificate of Recognition to the Great Enlightenment Society for their tree donation (shown with Michael Shen and Principal Dr. Alysia Hobbs-Odipo). (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Quail Summit students dig into the ceremony on March 11 (shown with Maintenance Manager, Sam Somoso). (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Diamond Bar — The front landscaping at Quail Summit Elementary School now includes eight new trees planted last week. The lush green Japanese Maples, Camphor, and Australian Willows were made possible through a donation from the Great Enlightenment Lotus Society. On March 11, the school held a ceremony attended by district and local officials to thank the non-profit organization.
“It is a great opportunity for Quail Summit Elementary and the District to receive this generous tree donation from the Great Enlightenment Lotus Society and at the same time, to educate our kids about the importance and meaning of tree planting for our future,” said Walnut Valley Unified School District Board Member Dr. Y. Tony Torng.
Quail Summit 4th and 5th Grade student representatives joined the planting celebration by drawing pictures and writing thank you cards for the event.
“It’s very important when someone gives you a gift that we say thank you,” said Principal Dr. Alysia Hobbs-Odipo.
Student Body President 5th Grader, Brianna Hernandez, presented a poster and some fun facts about trees. “With all the electronics we have in this era, sometimes it’s just nice to sit under a tree and read a book. I’m proud to represent my fellow Quails to show that we care and love our trees. We appreciate your help and sponsorship in planting these trees and beautifying our school,” she said.
Another Quail Summit student, 4th Grader Kenzie Wilson, accompanied by 5th Grader Mara Firtat, sang an original song about beautiful trees. Then all the students gathered around the last new tree and began planting with rich soil.
Lead Grounds Maintenance Worker, Gene Kennebrew, shared information about the species, including its growth potential to a towering 75 feet. “This is a Camphor tree and these were originally from Eastern Asia. They were brought to Florida in about 1875. They are excellent for shade and have a nice aroma,” he said.
“We are very happy here today to have Quail Summit Elementary students join us for this great event. When we realize the benefit of the forest, the tree-planting ceremony is very important and meaningful for our society and work,” said William Shen, Treasurer of the Bliss and Wisdom Foundation of North America, the organization that founded the Great Enlightenment Lotus Society. Shen was presented with certificates from the Offices of Senator Bob Huff and Assemblyman Curt Hagman.
“I’m not sure if you know it or not, but Diamond Bar is a designated Tree City,” said Jody Roberto, Senior Field Representative for Senator Huff. “And your school is contributing to that. You’re lucky to be at this beautiful school,” she added.
Diamond Bar: Through The Bible in a Year
BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER
Pastor Mark Hopper
Easter Sunday is only a month away. I am even more excited than usual about Easter this year because that is when we are going to begin a year long journey through the whole Bible.
Our goal is to provide a brief overview of every book in the Bible in one year, from Easter 2014 to Easter 2015. You may already know that there are 66 books in the Bible and only 52 weeks in the year. So a few times we will have to cover two smaller books on one Sunday in order to reach our goal. If you are unfamiliar with the Bible, I hope you will consider joining us on this amazing journey.
One of the best tools I have found that provides a clear overview of the Bible is a seminar called, “Walk Thru the Bible”. It is a two-day, live event that will give you a framework to understand how the Bible fits together. As we begin our year-long journey through the Bible, we will be offering this seminar at our church. It will begin on Sunday, April 27th. A small tuition fee is required and each participant will receive a useful study guide.
If you already have a church home, you can listen to our journey on our website each week. If you are not currently attending a church, we invite you to come each Sunday morning and learn what the Bible is all about.
The Walk Thru the Bible live event is open to the community. Please contact our church office or check out our website to learn more about this two-day seminar.
I hope you will join us on our one-year journey through the Bible beginning on Easter Sunday, and take advantage of the Walk Thru the Bible live event on April 27. You will be amazed at how much you will learn.
Pastor Mark Hopper
Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar
3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.
(909) 594-7604
Sunday Services: 9:00 and 10:45 a.m.
Website: www.efreedb.org
Diamond Bar: Chaparral HUMANitarian Club Serves Area Homeless
BY KELLI GILE
Chaparral Middle School HUMANitarian club members prepared a meal for residents of the San Gabriel Valley Winter Shelter on Feb. 27. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Diamond Bar — 17 members of the Chaparral Middle School HUMANitarian Club helped make and serve about 280 dinners to area homeless on Thursday, Feb. 27. Volunteers from many of Chaparral’s advocacy classes also supported the cause.
For the past eight years, the service club has reached out to the homeless through the East San Gabriel Valley’s Winter Shelter program. The rotating shelter begins at the end of October and runs through the end of February.
Students donated items to make a complete lunch for all the residents to take with them the following day after the dinner. Club members also spent time before the dinner service began getting to know their clients. “They learned a very valuable lesson about stereotyping homeless people,” said teacher and advisor, Sherry Robertson.
Club President, Kimberly Flores, said the students were shocked to learn that many of the people have jobs, some of them more than one. “You can’t categorize who you meet at this shelter…women, men, children,” Flores said. “My experience at the homeless shelter was pretty amazing. It changed my perspective on homeless people. I realized that they can be the same as us. There were educated people with jobs, but they didn’t have the same luxuries as we do,” she said.
Diamond Bar: Lions Club Update
STAFF REPORTS
(Photo courtesy: Google Images)
Diamond Bar — The Diamond Bar Lions Club did a lot during the month of February, including holding fundraisers, going to events, holding meetings, beautifying local areas, holding contests, and so much more. Here are a few highlights of what’s happening at the Diamond Bar Lions Club.
The Diamond Bar Lions Club was recognized for their excellence by receiving an award in the month of February. At the Third District Cabinet Meeting held at Westridge Golf Course and County Club in La Habra, the Diamond Bar High School Leo Club was recognized by Immediate Past District Governor, PJ Smith, for receiving the “Club Excellence Award” from Lions International. All the Leo Clubs around the world are considered, but DBHs was the only Leo Club from California to receive the award.
The Lions Club held a fundraiser at Bob’s Big Boy Restaurant in Diamond Bar last month. The Lions Club thanks the owner, Lion James Tsai, for allowing the fundraiser to happen at his restaurant, and they thank Lions, Leos, friends, and family for attending. Make sure to stop by their next fundraiser at Bob’s Big Boy on March 26.
In addition, the Lions Club held a Student Speaker Contest, where two student speakers from the Diamond Bar High School Leo Club gave a presentation of their speech at the South Coast Air Quality Management District. Sabrina Liang, Director of International Publicity, was announced as the winner.
The Diamond Bar High School Leos also did a lot of work throughout the community by picking up trash and recyclables at the school, cleaning the Ronald McDonald House in the City of Orange, cleaning up Leo Square by pulling weeds, trimming hedges, planting new flowers, and scrapping off gum.
Some events and people the Lions and Leos visited included: the Miss Diamond Bar Pageant’s Fashion Show to support contestant Leo Isabelle Chang; Sylmar to visit and tour the Guide Dogs of America facility; the La Habra Host Lions Club; and Lion James Farmer and Emma due to Lion James taking a leave of absence because of health issues.
For more information about the Diamond Bar Lions Club, email Jack Tanaka at jacwand@netzero.net.
Diamond Bar: 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 the smell of a rose in your back yard 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 back yard. 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
Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar
3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd
(909) 594-7604
Sunday Services: 9:00 and 10:45 a.m.
Website: www.efreedb.org
Diamond Bar: 21st Wine Soirée – Save the Date
DIAMOND BAR LIBRARY FRIENDS
(Courtesy of Diamond Bar Friends of the Library
Diamond Bar -– Enjoy the company of old and new friends and celebrate Diamond Bar by participating in the 21st Annual Wine Soirée, to be held on Sunday, April 27, at the Diamond Bar Center. All of the proceeds go directly to your local community library. Chairs Nancy Lyons, Rick Rogers and Tony Torng announced that they have much to celebrate in 2014, with this year’s theme being: “Friends of the Library and the City of Diamond Bar – Growing Up Together.” Diamond Bar will commemorate its 25th birthday, incorporating in April 1989, along with the 21st Anniversary of the Wine Soirée that started in March 1994.
Come, bring your friends and neighbors, and join this festive and exciting afternoon with delicious food from local restaurants, a great selection of wine to taste, music, and silent and live auctions. Some of the delicious food offerings will be provided by Aljibani Halal Market, Buca di BEPPO Italian Restaurant, Chili’s Grill and Bar, Claro’s Italian Restaurant, Coco’s Bakery, Diamond Bar Golf Course, Diamond Palace, Graber Olive House, Got Taco Party, It’s A Grind, Julie’s Café, Mandarin Taste Restaurant, Mother’s Market & Kitchen, Round Table Pizza, and The Whole Enchilada. Please stop by their restaurants, enjoy their delicious food and thank them for their support of the Diamond Bar Library, and literacy in our community.
Many exiting and desirable prizes are being donated for this year’s Wine Soirée. One exciting prize in the live auction will be a two-night stay at Cass Vineyard in beautiful Paso Robles, along with a day of tasting (chauffeured in their 1947 Chrysler Windsor Limo), gourmet lunch, and barrel tasting for four at the Cass Winery.
With your help, the Friends gave over $30,000 in 2013 for much-needed materials, programs, books, magazines, and more, that would not have been possible without the Wine Soirée and our non-profit bookstore, Basically BOOKS. In 2012, the Friends, in association with the Wine Soirée, donated $80,000 to partner with the County of Los Angeles and the City of Diamond Bar to create the new library. This wonderful addition to Diamond Bar would not have been possible without the help of the community.
Those attending this great event can feel good that all the fun they are having – the food and wines they taste, the auction items they win, the music they enjoy – will help to improve the quality of life and learning. The annual Wine Soirée is an institution in Diamond Bar and is a great way to meet new and old friends and neighbors. Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $60 at the door. Advertising is also available in our beautiful Annual Program. A unique souvenir wine glass and program are included with each ticket. Tickets and program information are available by calling (909) 861-2002.
Diamond Bar: Council Corner – Deputy City Manager Position Created
BY ARIEL CARMONA JR.
(Google Images)
Diamond Bar — At their March 4 meeting, the Diamond Bar council heard a presentation from students and parents at Diamond Bar High School pertaining to efforts on the part of the school to raise $10,000 for computers, laptops and Audio Visual equipment needed for students to comply with the state’s Common Core testing standards, as well as welcomed Ryan Mcclean to his new position of Deputy City Manager, among other business.
During the public comments portion of the meeting, Mustafa Barlas, a student at Diamond Bar School, asked the council to help the school raise funds. “Every single test has to be done on a computer and because of all the budget cuts, Diamond Bar High School is not able to pay for all this stuff. We are trying to help fundraise money for that; we wanted to reach a goal of $2,000 with the help of you guys fundraising.”
The South Asian Parent Association of Diamond Bar High School, a parent based nonprofit organization under the Diamond Bar High School Magnificent 7 parent group, presented information about their upcoming fundraising event to the council. The fundraiser will include an evening of food, music and cultural event scheduled for March 21 at 7 p.m. at Diamond Palace Cuisine of India located at 1241 Grand Ave.
“Our mission is to enhance the sense of community and belonging of the students at DBHS by celebrating the Indian and sub-continent cultures through education and arts, promoting parent and community involvement…and fostering the spirit of the school’s multicultural community,” said Co-Presidents Archana Verma and Lubna Akbany in a written statement presented to the council.
Sponsorships to the event include a platinum sponsor at $2,000, a gold sponsorship at $1,000, a Silver sponsorship at $500 and a Bronze at $250.
In other actions, the council voted 5-0 to pass their consent calendar, which included a ratification of a check register dated Feb. 13 through Feb. 26 totaling $931,877; approved the Treasurers statement for the month of January and approved a contract amendment for the consulting services for the Willow Heights project’s final environmental impact report for a not-to-exceed cost of $30,210; and acceptance of work performed by a contractor for construction of improvements to the Diamond Bar Center.
The council members also thanked retiring commissioners in various city departments including traffic and transportations, parks and recreations, and the planning commission. A presentation to honor outgoing commissioners included Liana Pincher and Peter Pirritano who worked under Traffic and transportation, and Dave Roberto and Ash Dhingra for Parks and Recreation and planning respectively.
City Manager James De Stefano praised staff for their actions during the rainstorm which pelted the area. “I want to specifically thank the Public Works Department, they were the most active during the course of the few days ensuring that a variety of city staff resources were properly deployed and that the assets that we have were in position to respond to the storm. There were a variety of city staff members that worked very hard, particularly on Friday.”
During his report to the council, DeStefano also spoke about a new position approved by the council at their previous meeting. “I have promoted Ryan McClean to the position of Deputy City Manager,” said DeStefano, “Ryan has been a member of this city staff for many years, has served in the City Manager’s office in a variety of positions. Ryan is an outstanding contributor to our organization and it’s a great pleasure to have promoted to the new position of Deputy City Manager.”
Council-member Ling-Ling Chang said, “I wanted to congratulate our new Deputy City Manager Ryan. You’ve been doing a great job; thank you for all the great work you do and congratulations on the new position.”
The next City Council meeting is scheduled for March 18 at 6:30 p.m. at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.
Diamond Bar: Former Lorbeer Teacher Found Guilty of 17 Sex-Related Counts
STAFF REPORTS
Steven Andrews (Photo Courtesy: L.A. Sheriff’s Department)
Diamond Bar — Steven Andrews, 43, a former Diamond Bar Middle School history teacher, was found guilty Wednesday of 17 sex-related counts: six counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a minor, five counts of sexual penetration by a foreign object, three counts of lewd acts upon a child, two counts of oral copulation with a person under 16, and one count of possession or control of child pornography. The jury deliberated for less than a day before reaching their verdict in the case.
Andrews surrendered to authorities back in September 2011, admitting he committed lewd acts on a 14-year-old student. He taught the student for about a year at Lorbeer Middle School in Diamond Bar, prior to when the sexual relationship began. The incidents took place both on and off campus. Police were initially alerted after the relationship was brought to their attention by a teacher who was concerned over the interaction between the victim and Andrews. The Los Angeles County Special Victims Bureau then began investigating the case.
Andrews has remained in custody since his arrest. He is scheduled to be sentenced at the Los Angeles Superior Court in Pomona on April 24. The maximum sentence is 15 years and eight months in state prison. Andrews must also register as a sex offender.
Diamond Bar: Small Things, Big Problems
BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER
Pastor Mark Hopper
Diamond Bar — I know that we are all thankful for the recent rain. And it really did rain! I haven’t heard the total amount yet, but it was certainly several inches of rain in my neighborhood and probably a lot more in the foothills.
During some of the heaviest rain, I noticed that my backyard was filling up with water. I realized that the drain pipes in my yard were not working properly. So, I rolled up my jeans, took off my shoes, and waded into the cold standing water. When I located the drain pipe, I discovered it was covered with leaves. The leaves were blocking the drain and causing the water to back up into the yard.
The drain pipe had a plastic cover with small slots in it. I’m sure the cover prevents animals and large objects from getting into the pipe and blocking it completely. But I was surprised that a few small leaves could stop up the drain and prevent the water from draining out to the street. It was a helpful reminder that small things can cause big problems. We know that small termites can devastate a large home. We know that a small pebble in your shoe can cause a lot of discomfort.
The same is true in personal relationships. Small issues in a marriage that go unresolved can lead to big problems. One white lie can lead to a habit of dishonesty.
I wonder… are there any small things in your life that need attention? Are there things that you have allowed to go unaddressed and overlooked that could lead to bigger problems in the future?
Let me encourage you to take a look at your life and your heart. Ask God to reveal to you some little things that need your attention. Don’t let these little things become a big problem in your life.
Pastor Mark Hopper
Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar
3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.
(909) 594-7604
Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 a.m.
Website: www.efreedb.org
Tang Accused of State, Federal Campaign Law Violations
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Diamond Bar: Citibank Offers Jewelry As New Promotion
STAFF REPORTS
Diamond Bar –- Did you know that 2014 is the year of the horse? As a promotion for the Lunar New Year, the Diamond Bar branch of Citibank is offering Swarovski horse and Swarovski jewelry for new deposits. Come to see their display and learn more about their current promotions.
Swapna Ray, Vice President of the Diamond Bar Citibank, stands with the Swarovski horse and Swarovski jewelry that is being offered as a new promotion. (Photo courtesy: Swapna Ray)
Citibank Diamond Bar Branch, located at 1188 S. Diamond Bar Blvd. Diamond Bar, CA. 91765. They can be reached at (909) 978-3101.
Diamond Bar: Library Teams with Covered California
NEWS RELEASE
Diamond Bar — Covered California has teamed with the Diamond Bar Library for a series of enrollment events to help local consumers obtain quality, affordable health insurance.
“There’s no better place than libraries to help consumers protect themselves and their families by enrolling in Covered California health insurance plans,” Executive Director, Peter V. Lee, said.
Covered California’s Certified Insurance Agents and Certified Enrollment Counselors will be at the Diamond Bar Library to provide free assistance to enroll in quality, affordable health plans. On top of the free assistance, many consumers may qualify for financial assistance to help them pay for insurance coverage through Covered California, or determine that they are eligible for no-cost or low-cost Medi-Cal.
Many consumers have been uninsured for years and are relieved and excited at the opportunity to finally get affordable health coverage.
Theus White, 28, of North Hollywood, is an independent contractor for an insurance agency and has been uninsured for about six months. “Not have having insurance has been a bit challenging. I do have to do home remedies to make sure I’m not catching any colds or something like that. In the event you are ill, you have to go to a hospital and get a huge bill!”
Guided by Covered California, more than 26,000 Enrollment Counselors, insurance agents and eligibility workers in counties across the state are available to help consumers enroll.
“We know for the thousands who have successfully enrolled, there are others out there who we still need to serve better,” Lee said. “These events are part of that effort.”
The library enrollment events are being held to enroll as many people as possible before March 31, which is the deadline for getting covered.
Diamond Bar: Grand Avenue Beautification
Diamond Bar – The City of Diamond Bar is hosting an Open House on Wednesday, March 19, to share information about a project that will improve the aesthetic character of Grand Avenue through a variety of streetscape elements concentrated near the intersections of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Longview Drive.
Diamond Bar City Hall
(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)
The Open House will be held at Diamond Bar City Hall, Windmill Community Room, 21810 Copley Drive, from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Residents and businesses are encouraged to drop by between these hours to weigh in on the various design concepts proposed for beautifying Grand Avenue. Translation services will be available during the open house in Chinese and Korean.
Along with a sneak peek at the proposed conceptual streetscape renderings, attendees will obtain information about project milestones and potential traffic impacts once construction gets underway later this year.
The greater part of the funding for the Grand Avenue Beautification Project comes from a Federal Grant secured by the City under the SAFETEA-LU transportation bill for the restricted purpose of improving public rights of way along Grand Avenue. The intersections of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Longview Drive were selected for beautification because they serve as primary gateways to the City.
Concurrent with this beautification effort, the City is working on developing Citywide Streetscape Design Guidelines aimed at providing a unified, cohesive look through consistent, visually-appealing streetscape and pedestrian features in the public rights of way.
For more information on the project, streetscape guidelines, or the March 19 Open House event, visit http://www.diamondbarca.gov/grand, or call (909) 839-7040.
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