Category Archives: Inland Empire

Inland Empire/San Gabriel Valley: Calendar of Events 04/05/2014

STAFF REPORTS

 

UPCOMING EVENTSEvents

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

 

Inland Empire: The Great Pretender

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

I remember dressing up like batman; the little K-Mart suit with the plastic mask. I remember watching SWAT and grabbing a stick like it was my machine gun. I remember trying to lift the car because I wanted to be Steve Austin, the Six Million Dollar Man.

You’d think it was healthy to give your imagination a chance to flourish, to enhance your creativity. But without proper guidance, explanation, and influence, it’s hard to differentiate between reality and fantasy. Without explanation, the lines of reality are blurred, so you embed in your mind that when life seems difficult you can mask your pain, like you did when you were a child, and become someone you’re not.

I remember being stressed to a point that I felt I could no longer take it. So I went out, drank, and became someone I wasn’t. I pretended to be someone who didn’t exist, someone I never was and never could be. I reverted to my child-like instincts and put on that K-Mart batman mask and picked up that SWAT stick while trying to lift that car. I became the Great Pretender.

While acting like I was a college scholar, a big shot at my company, or a racing car driver, I really felt alive. I felt like a complete human being because my mind was hungry to be complete, like a child who wants to become a super hero. My lies were my super power and my reality was my kryptonite.

I liked the escape of not being who I was.  Abused and neglected. Deceived and tormented. Tortured and ridiculed. Worst of all, I was verbally accosted and left to play violent and damaging tapes of lies and pain. Pretending was an escape, which helped me not only overcome the pain I had been suffering, but allowed me to feel as though I were normal for a while. It made me feel like I was a human being. Something I’d yearned to feel like for so many years.  These incidents happened so quickly and many years have passed. But today the memories are still haunting.

In the past I had embraced my desire to be something I’m not. But today I will seek to be someone who makes me feel complete. I will no longer wear the mask I had worn for so many years. I will seek truth in myself and accept what has transpired throughout my life. But I will continue to pretend, now in a fun and joyful manner; because yesterday, today, and tomorrow, I am, deep inside, the Great Pretender.

 

Eastvale: Man Who Shot Woman in Custody

Man Suspected of Shooting female in Eastvale early on April 5 (Photo Courtesy: Facebook)

Man Suspected of Shooting female in Eastvale early on April 5
(Photo Courtesy: Facebook)

By Michael Armijo 

UPDATED 4 pm 4/5/14: Just before 7 a.m. authorities spotted the suspect’s white Dodge  driving around and tried to initiate a stop. The suspect failed to yield and eventually parked his car in a strip mall parking lot, located at Norwalk Blvd. and Carson in the city of Hawaiian Gardens where he barricaded himself inside his white Dodge Magnum for seven hours. He was spotted by Sheriff’s Deputies when they went to the area to check for the suspect because his auto registration has a Hawaiian Gardens address. After Deputies tried to pull him over, they administered a “spike strip” and all four tires of the Dodge Magnum were deflated. The suspect refused to surrender and tear gas was used. After this was unsuccessful, a K9 was deployed. The standoff with Los Angeles County Sheriff ended with the suspect being taken into custody. He was treated for minor injuries and transported to a hospital, according to the Sheriff’s Department. The female victim is out of surgery and listed in stable condition. She is expected to survive. Update by Jennifer Madrigal  
Eastvale 7:49 am, 4/5/14– A man allegedly shot a woman early this morning and then drove her to the hospital, dropped her off, and fled, police say.“At about 12:30 am, officers from the Eastvale PD answered a call about an assault with a deadly weapon,” said Deputy Anthony Munoz, Public Information Officer for the Riverside Sheriff’s Department. “The suspect, a Hispanic male, allegedly shot a Hispanic female six times and dropped her off at a local hospital, then fled.” The incident happened early this morning, Sat. April 5, 2014, near Rolling Meadow Street and Burrage Street, Munoz said. The area is south west of Limonite and Harrison, and no other injuries were reported. The names of the victim and the suspect was not released yet, and their maritial status was unknown,  but they did have two kids together, Munoz said. “The suspect is considered armed and dangerous, and he fled in a white Dodge. Since the investigation is ongoing, we will have more information later and a press release will be issued,” Munoz said.

 

Eastvale: UNAUTHORIZED USE OF THE CITY SEAL OR LOGO IS PROHIBITED

Courtesy CITY OF EASTVALE

The City of Eastvale does not under any circumstance
authorize the use of the City seal, logo or inaugural logo for personal, business or private use. The City does not endorse any organization, entity (public or private) or business that is or has used the City seal, logo or inaugural logo without express, prior written consent by the City of Eastvale.
According to Municipal Code Section 1.02.040-050 adopted on April 24, 2013:
The official name for the city shall be the “City of Eastvale”, and constitutes and is adopted as the official name for the city. The name “Eastvale” shall also constitute a secondary official name for the city.
(a) The city seal, inaugural logo, logo, and official name, are for the exclusive use by the city, and their commissions, officials and employees, in the course and scope of their official
duties.
(b) No person shall use or allow to be used the official seal, inaugural logo, logo or official name of the city, or any cut, facsimile, or reproduction of said seal, or make or use any
design which is an imitation of said seal or of the design thereof, or which may be mistaken for the seal, inaugural logo or logo of this city or the design thereof, for malicious or commercial purposes, or for any purpose other than for city purposes or for the purposes of
any officer, board or department thereof, without the express prior written consent of the city council.
(c) The city council may authorize the use or reproduction thereof of the official seal, inaugural logo, logo or official name for commercial purposes or for any other use.
(d) A violation of any provision of this chapter or a failure to comply with any mandatory requirements of this chapter is subject to prosecution as a misdemeanor under this Code and may be enforced through criminal, civil, administrative, injunctive or other relief available by law. Criminal penalties for violations of the provisions of this chapter may result in up to a misdemeanor citation for each day in violation, punishable by a maximum
of one-year in jail and a $1,000.00 fine.
If you, your business or organization are currently using the city seal, inaugural logo and/or logo in the promotion of your business or organization whether in print or electronically without written
consent from the City of Eastvale, you are in violation of Eastvale Municipal Code Sec. 1.02.050 as previously described. To review this section of the municipal code, please visit:
http://library.municode.com/HTML/15015/level3/PTAGEOR_TIT1GEPR_CH1.02OFSEINLOLONA. html#PTAGEOR_TIT1GEPR_CH1.02OFSEINLOLONA_S1.02.050VI
Additional questions may be directed to the City’s Public Information Officer Michele Nissen at (951) 361-0900 X415.

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

Inland Empire: Imagination

BY NANCY STOOPS

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

I can remember gathering leaves of all colors and shapes, collecting sea shells, and anything else that one might find in the water.  I would fill up my wagon with water and create an underwater adventure for everybody to enjoy with the use of a snorkel and mask.  My friends and I would put on singing and dancing shows for the entire neighborhood.  My brothers and I would create backyard carnivals for everybody to experience.  I was always playing dress up and had the ability to become so many different people.  This dress up play helped prepare me for all the hats I have worn over the span of my lifetime.

I can remember my imagination was encouraged by my parents, family and friends.  I credit that imagination for who I am today.  I credit my imagination for making me a creative thinker and a person that always thinks way beyond the box.  As I was raising my son, Bryan, he always used his imagination in his play as well.  He would create the most wonderful lands in our living room.  His creations could literally make you feel as if you were transcended to another world.  We would spend days playing in the worlds he created.  As an adult, my son is one of the most creative people I have ever met.  His imagination was encouraged and totally supported in every way.

Universities are now looking for the well-rounded individual.  I think helping your child develop their imagination is an important part of becoming well-rounded and learning to think for yourself and out of the box.  Imagination is such a crucial part of play, but also a very important part of many careers.  Don’t allow technology to take the place of imagination.  Instead, find a way to incorporate both imagination and technology into your life and your child’s life.  Don’t be afraid to imagine.  Many times our imagination creates a path for our lives.

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She also runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, groups for teens, and is available as a motivational speaker for employees and organizations.  For more information about any of these services, feel free to page her at (626) 935-3818.  You may also e-mail her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. Nancy’s new book, “Live Heal and Grow,” is available at www.RoseDogBookstore.com or at Amazon.com.

Eastvale: Situation Awareness

 By L.E.A.F.F. (Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters)

 

LEAFF Law Enforcement and Fire Protection

L.E.A.F.F. Eastvale

One of the most important factors of being safe is being aware of your situation. This can be applied to the home, workplace and outside, whether one is at work or play.  Be aware of what is going around you.

 

HOME:  With spring arriving and the time change, it is essential to remember to do things like renew the batteries in your smoke detectors, replenish the supplies in your first aid kit and review a safety plan with your family. Do your children know where to go in case of a major emergency? Make sure as a family you discuss a meeting place in the event of a disaster and have a plan in place.  It is also essential to make sure that your family is prepared and has enough food and water for three days to one week, at a minimum.

 

OUTSIDE:  Be aware of your surroundings when you are outside.  If you see drifters or people that look like they shouldn’t be there (such as a random person sitting in their car for a long period of time), call it in.  It is better to be safe than sorry.  Pay attention to your neighbors and your neighborhood by being vigilant and looking out for one another.  Joining a Neighborhood Watch is a great way to learn more about your surroundings as well as learn even more ways to keep you and your family safe.

 

Children need to remember to wear helmets when riding their bikes, but most importantly, they need to look around and make sure that vehicles see them.  Vehicles should be at a full stop before crossing in front of them.  Don’t assume that because you are in the crosswalk, you are safe. Distracted drivers and children not paying attention have resulted in many collisions that could have been avoided had both people been aware of their surroundings.

 

Overall, situation awareness leads to less crime and a higher level of personal safety. The first step in avoiding disaster and becoming a statistic is making sure that your situation is safe. Be vigilant, pay attention and have a plan.

Inland Empire: Straight Talk With Danice

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

My husband is a mechanic who works for an auto dealership.  He is a very nice man who takes on side jobs at our home on his days off.  I know it gives him satisfaction to help his friends and relatives who can’t afford dealership prices, but my house is always overrun with people dropping off their cars.  I feel like I don’t have any privacy.  People come into the house to use the restroom, or if they are friends and family they think I want to make time to visit with them.  I don’t want to be rude, but I have a lot to do on the weekend to keep things good for our family.  I work full time, too. We have two kids and we only see my husband if we go out to the garage on the weekends. I feel guilty complaining, because my husband is trying to help people.  He often doesn’t charge for his labor, so this is not helping our family financially either.  I can’t ignore this anymore.

Frustrated Wife

Dear Frustrated Wife:

Your husband sounds like a decent man, but he is confused about how a family unit should work in order to keep the happiness and satisfaction levels in good shape.  It sounds like you are in charge of the children all weekend, while he serves friends, neighbors and family members.  I think your frustration stems from feeling like you are in it alone, and your marriage is suffering.  He would probably feel the same if he were in your shoes.

Let’s look at a few things.  Is your husband avoiding you for any reason?  Have you clearly communicated your frustration to him about having no privacy or time with him on the weekends?  Have you been over functioning on your own for a long time and he has come to believe this is acceptable?  Sit down with your husband privately and set some boundaries.  Discuss how the weekend routine needs to be in order for you to both have a satisfying experience.  Do not wait until your resentment is so severe that you no longer desire his company.

Good Luck,

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi, ND

City of Industry: Teen Artists and Filmmakers of the Future Debut

STAFF REPORTS

City of Industry -– The public can view and purchase work from artists and filmmakers of the future at the Nogales High School Art and Film Show, held at the Puente Hills Mall. The exhibition runs through April 13, and features original short films, photography, acrylic on canvas paintings, pen and ink, and mixed media from the talents of senior students from the acclaimed Nogales High School International Baccalaureate and Visual Arts Program. These are not your average art students.  The college level, one person shows are by students that will go on to attend top art colleges and universities.

The art and film exhibition hours are weekends, March 22-23, and April 12-13, from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m.; and weeknights, March 17-21, March 24-28, and April 7-11, from 4 p.m. t o 9 p.m.

Nogales High School is part of the Rowland Unified School District, and is an International Baccalaureate World School offering an award winning Career Certification Program for students.  Each year, graduates earn scholarships to attend the nation’s top art colleges and universities.  For more information on this amazing program and school, visit www.nogaleshs.org or Facebook.com/NogalesHigh.

Inland Empire: Straight Talk With Danice

Dear Dr. Danice:

I have been going to therapy for months to combat depression.  I have chosen to keep this to myself.  When friends come to my apartment uninvited, I don’t answer the door.  I have also stopped returning phone calls.  Talking to people and answering their questions is too hard for me while I work on my problems.  I have only one friend who I feel good talking to.  She says I should just admit my depression so that everyone understands me, but I think even more people would bother me.

Alfonso

Dear Alfonso:

You have the right to process your therapy and your emotions in your own way.  You do not owe anyone an explanation about why you are operating in a standoffish way at this time, but this just keeps people checking in on you.  If you have friends you truly love, maybe you would consider sending them an e-mail or text message. Let them know that you are working through some things and that you will not be in touch on a regular basis.  Ask them to respect your need for privacy at this time.  I think this is a polite social obligation given to people who care about you.  Doing it once should be enough.  I hope you will be feeling better soon.

Danice Akiyoshi, ND

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

 

Inland Empire: “Sell Your Casa” With Gil Rivera

BY SARAH ARMIJO

Southern California – In this day and age, it’s important to know all aspects of your business.  For Gil Rivera from SellYourCasa.com, he absolutely knows every aspect of buying and selling a home.  He is a reliable, experienced, and an affordable Realtor, Broker, and Certified Appraiser.

Rivera sells houses, condos, and two to four unit investment properties in Riverside, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, and Orange counties. He also does real estate appraisals for banks, estates, trusts, divorces, attorneys, refinances, home purchases, and probate/inheritance for tax purposes. In addition, Rivera has assistants that work with him who are fluent in Spanish and Chinese, helping to reach people of different dialects all over Southern California.

Rivera is in his 21st year of business and has SOLD homes in 26 different cities in Southern California; his coverage area is expansive.  Rivera said, “I can do this because I appraise homes in so many different cities and have the knowledge and expertise associated with your marketplace. Give me an opportunity and you will surely be happy you did!”  In February 2013, Rivera listed a home in Monterey Park worth $470,000. Rivera received 53 offers in seven days and SOLD it for $515,000. In November 2013, he listed a home in La Puente for $299,000 and sold it in 5 days with 18 offers at $325,000, all-cash.

Rivera’s philosophy is to “treat my clients the way I want to be treated.” In fact, Rivera said that he became a Realtor because he did not like the way his Realtor treated him when he was buying his home. Rivera shows respect for his clients at all times. He listens to what they say, so that he can better serve them.

Rivera also does not push his Buyers into a sale. Rivera said, “I always tell Buyers: ‘You will know right away when we walk into the house that’s meant for you’.  Whether it takes a week or months, my Buyers will always be satisfied with their purchase and never pressured into it.”

Rivera’s Sellers love the fact that he offers a discounted commission, but with full service.  Rivera offers a 4% Total Commission for Sellers.  This includes 2.5% to the Buyer’s Agent and 1.5% to Rivera’s office.  Most Realtors negotiate a 6% commission because they have to split the fees with their brokerage. But, as Rivera is the Broker, he passes on the savings to the Seller. This will save Sellers thousands of dollars in commission fees.  His team offers full service for that discounted rate including high quality flyers, professional photos, open houses (as allowable by Seller), and extended advertising coverage on the Internet and social media.

Rivera’s current promotion is, “We will SELL your house in four weeks at highest value! We only request a listing period of four weeks, while most other Realtors ask for a six month listing.” Rivera says that “Buyers need to know that they do not need to pay their Realtor any fees for representing them on a purchase. The Buyer’s agent is paid by the Seller, not the Buyer.

Rivera absolutely loves what he does.  He loves selling homes to Buyers because he helps fulfill their dreams of home ownership. His favorite part of selling homes to is transferring the keys to excited Buyers. Rivera loves selling homes for Sellers because he enjoys the uniqueness that each property offers and selling the positive attributes of the home.  Rivera says, “Many agents spend their time showing houses….I SELL them!”

Check out Rivera’s website at http://www.SellYourCasa.com to see how many different cities Rivera has sold in and for additional information about his company. You can also call the toll free number at (877) 888-SOLD (7653), or cell phone numbers (909) 967-4525 and (626) 340-9950. He also currently has a large freeway billboard where the 57 and 10 freeways meet, near Temple Ave.

Call today for a free market evaluation.

Inland Empire: Apathy Is Deadly

BY NANCY STOOPS

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

I believe apathy is the root cause for many of the problems in our world today.  What has happened to us and when did so many of us stop caring?  I know our world is hard and sometimes can feel like a very lonely place.  I also know that I come across many people that still believe in themselves, others and in our world.

I hate when I hear people just give up.  I hate when people just stop caring and seem to exist in a full time pity party.  Life throws us many things that get in our way but if we give up, then we have wasted our lives.  I think we use apathy as a defense mechanism to stop feeling our pain.  I guess it’s easier to not care, than to feel our pain.  I guess it makes it easier to hide from ourselves by acting like we just don’t care.  Eventually if we are apathetic enough for a long period of time, the people trying to help us might even start to leave us alone.  We may think this is what we really want, but I don’t think anybody truly wants that.

I look at apathy as being emotionally shut off or wanting to show the world that you are.   We are here to live our lives to the fullest.  We are supposed to care and yes, sometimes we can get hurt a lot, but turning off emotionally helps nobody.   I hear a lot of people tell me they don’t care because there’s nothing they can do to make our world better.  I disagree, because as long as we still care then we will work hard to be the best we can be and to keep improving our families, communities and eventually our world.

 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 also runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, groups for teens, and is available as a motivational speaker for employees and organizations.  For more information about any of these services, feel free to page her at (626) 935-3818.  You may also e-mail her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. Nancy’s new book, “Live Heal and Grow,” is available at www.RoseDogBookstore.com or at Amazon.com.

Inland Empire: Girl Scouts Learn About Counterfeit Money the Hard Way

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

(Google Images)

(Google Images)

Rancho Cucamonga – In Rancho Cucamonga, at least two people have used counterfeit money to steal cookies and money from local Girl Scouts.  The Scout members had set up a table outside their local grocery store to begin this year’s cookie drive. Shortly after that, the suspects, one man and one woman, each used $50 counterfeit bills to pay for cookies and proceeded to ask the Scouts for change.  The process is said to have been repeated at least once more at another Rancho Cucamonga location during the same weekend.  The troops who were taken advantage of are said to be liable for the loss, and are out a little more than $200.

The community is appalled.  The thought that someone would use counterfeit money to steal from a Girl Scout is shocking to most people, but especially to the Girl Scouts themselves.  The girls are very trusting, and did not expect to need to have knowledge of how to differentiate real money from fake.  In response to the crime, the Rancho Cucamonga Police have provided the affected troop with some basic training on spotting counterfeit money.

The local police department is reviewing the video surveillance from the stores where the crimes took place in the hopes of identifying the suspects.

Los Angeles County: DUI Checkpoints This St. Patrick’s Day

LA COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

Crime ImageLos Angeles County -– With St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, Glendora Police Chief, Tim Staab, and the ‘Avoid the 100 DUI Task Force’ are reminding drivers not to get behind the wheel if they’ve been drinking. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that more than 269 people were senselessly killed nationwide in crashes involving drunk drivers during the St. Patrick’s Day holiday from 2007 to 2011. Those fatalities were preventable.

The Avoid the 100 Los Angeles County DUI Task Force will be deploying 87 roving DUI patrols this St. Patrick’s Day, as well as 13 DUI checkpoints throughout the county looking to stop and arrest drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs. These DUI patrols and checkpoints are in addition to regularly scheduled patrol officers and they will all be looking for the tell-tale signs of an impaired driver behind the wheel.

“When you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, just be smart about it. If you know you’re going to drink, whether with friends at a pub or attending a party, designate a sober driver ahead of time or call a taxi to make sure you get home safely,” said Chief Staab. “There’s never an excuse for driving after drinking.”

According to NHTSA, on average, one person was killed every 53 minutes in a drunken driving crash in the U.S. in 2011.  Most of these crashes involved drunk drivers who had blood alcohol concentrations of .15 or higher, almost twice the legal limit of .08.  To prevent these tragedies from occurring, Chief Staab recommends the following steps to have a safe and happy St. Patrick’s Day:

– Before the festivities begin, plan a way to safely get home at the end of the night.

– Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home.

– If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation to get home safely.

– If available, use your community’s sober ride program.

– If you see a drunk driver on the road, report them!  Call 9-1-1. You could save a life.

– And remember, if you know people who are about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to safely get where they are going.

The Task Force is funded through a grant by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Avoid DUI Task Force will next deploy operations on Cinco de Mayo.

Inland Empire: Straight Talk With Danice

Dear Danice Akiyoshi, ND:

My sorority sisters and I plan to take a cruise to Mexico this summer.  There are eight of us going, so we drew names to decide how the rooms would be shared.  I am nervous because I drew the girl who has OCD, and she has to have everything perfect all the time.  I’m a spontaneous person and never plan a thing.  Do you think it would be wrong of me to see if any of the other girls might be willing to switch roommates with me?   We are the worst match.

Gabriella

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Gabriella:

Your roommate is bound to discover your feelings if you approach the other people in your group.  Names were drawn; all is fair, so accept the outcome and get off to a good start.  Partnering with this person only applies to your stateroom right?  Where you sleep and shower should not have a significant bearing on how much fun you experience with your sorority sisters on this cruise.  I am old enough to know that things often happen for a reason.  You may find yourself forming a magnificent friendship with your roommate.  Maybe you even have something important to teach each other.  Carry on and concentrate on having a good time.

Danice Akiyoshi,ND

La Puente: Public’s Help Needed in Locating Missing Person

LA COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

La Puente – Detectives from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Missing Persons Unit are seeking the public’s assistance in locating Raul Aspuru Servin, a 73-year old Hispanic male who was last seen driving from his residence on the 100 block of Winton Street, La Puente, on Monday, March 10, at 11 a.m.

Aspuru is described as 5’ 06”, 170lbs, has grey hair, a grey beard and brown eyes. He is missing his top front teeth, has droopy eyelids, and age spots on the right side of his face.  He was last seen wearing blue jeans and a blue long-sleeved shirt.

Aspuru was driving a black 2003 Volkswagen 4-door Jetta, California license plate 5CNV595. He is not in possession of his wallet, money, or identification, and suffers from Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes.

Aspuru’s family is very concerned and is also asking for the public’s assistance.

Anyone with information about this individual is encouraged to contact Detective Velasquez at the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau, Missing Persons Unit, (323) 890-5500. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website at http://lacrimestoppers.org.

San Bernardino: New Mayor Sworn In

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

San Bernardino’s new mayor, Carey Davis, was sworn into office on March 3.  The inauguration ceremony was held inside the City’s council chambers, with a large crowd to bear witness.

San Bernardino Mayor Carey Davis

San Bernardino Mayor Carey Davis (Courtesy City of San Bernardino)

Davis, 61, was born and raised in San Bernardino.  He has been married for 40 years, and is a local church leader.  He is a Certified Public Accountant and has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration.  Davis is a longtime corporate controller at Hehr International, but is s

till fairly new to the political world.  His review of San Bernardino’s financial statements before San Bernardino was forced to file for bankruptcy is what sparked his personal interest in the City’s politics.

Carey Davis’s goal as mayor is to restore San Bernardino to a “prosperous and industrious community.”  His plan to achieve said goal consists of three main steps.  The first step will be to fix the City’s budget and finances.  Next, he plans to work with the local businesses and the Board of Education to discuss the best way to educate and train a skilled workforce.  Finally, he plans to keep the citizens up to date, informed, and involved in the City’s projects, as well as the progress being made.  Davis’ vision for San Bernardino includes a place where the council and the people work together for the betterment of the community, and join forces to help the City regain the financial stability it once knew.

Ontario: Town Square Public Art Project

STAFF REPORTS

Ontario — The City of Ontario issued a Request for Proposal on Jan. 15, 2014 to solicit mural designs for the new Ontario Town Square. Artists can submit designs in various forms of media, such as drawing, painting, or photography. The artist whose design is selected will be paid a flat fee of $5,000 for their services, and will have their work featured onto the back wall of the band shell that is being constructed for the Ontario Town Square.

In order to have proposals considered, artists must first have attended one of two informational meetings that were held on Feb. 6 and 8 at the Museum of History and Art in Ontario. Prospective artists must also provide a statement describing their approach to their design that is no more than one page in length, a list of references from both past and current clients within the last five years, and five to ten images of the artist’s previous work. Proposals must be submitted online by Mar. 7 at 4:00 p.m., using the online Bid Portal on the City Website.

Submitted proposals will be judged on the quality and creativity of each artist’s previous work, and their recommendations or references. The designs submitted must be able to convey the character and identity of the City of Ontario, and demonstrate an obvious aesthetic quality. Finally, the designs will be judged on the reproducible quality of the artwork at the full scale of 6’ x 24’, as the winning design will have to be enlarged and printed onto 8 inch tiles before being installed in the Town Square. The final proposal will be selected on Mar. 14, 2014.

For more information on the Ontario Town Square’s Public Art Project, contact the Ontario Purchasing Department at (909) 395-2012.

The City of Ontario has another public art project planned for later this year. The theme is said to be related to conservation and recycling, and will involve the creation and installation of a sculpture.

Inland Empire: Straight Talk With Danice – February

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

My best friend is perfect in every way, but for some reason she is always criticizing herself and her appearance.  Now I’m starting to feel self-conscious every time I’m around her.  She is much prettier than I am, so if she magnifies her own flaws, I wonder what she must think of me.  I’m starting to avoid her unless I’m looking my best.  What should I do?

Farzi

Hi, Farzi:

Your friend might be suffering from insecurity or low self esteem.  Just because she judges herself harshly does not mean that she has the same magnifying glass on you.  Don’t avoid your friend.  Share your feelings instead and help her see her true value.

Danice Akiyoshi, ND

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

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