Category Archives: News By City

OC Attorney Charged With Witness Tampering

Irvine lawyer arrested after accepting money to smuggle a witness out of the U.S.

Photo Courtesy: U.S. Department of Justice Attorney Ken Zhiyi Liang

Photo Courtesy: U.S. Department of Justice
Attorney Ken Zhiyi Liang

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – An Irvine-based immigration attorney has been arrested and charged with attempted witness tampering after agreeing to help a Chinese national flee from the United States after the woman had been designated as a “material witness” in a criminal investigation into “birthing houses” operating in Southern California.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Ken Zhiyi Liang, 38, of Irvine, was arrested on the afternoon of Fri., May 15, after accepting $6,000 from the witness in exchange for assisting her abscond to China. In a criminal complaint filed on May 16, Liang was charged with attempted witness tampering.  Liang was scheduled to make his initial court appearance on Mon., May 18 in United States District Court.

The Chinese national had been designated as a material witness in the federal investigation, meaning she was subject to a court order preventing her from leaving the U.S. without authorization from the government or court. Liang had represented the witness in the matter until the court removed him as attorney of record, over his objections, on Apr. 17.

The federal investigation – which became known when authorities executed dozens of search warrants in early March – focuses on so-called birthing houses that “provided services to Chinese nationals, who travelled into the United States from China, for the purpose of giving birth to children so that the children could obtain United States citizenship,” according to the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint against Liang.

The affidavit, which was written by a special agent with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, recounts several video- and audio-recorded calls and meetings between Liang and the witness. During these conversations, Liang outlined a plan in which he would assist the witness by having her board a commercial airliner in the United States without travel documentation, so she could escape to China undetected by federal authorities. At one of the meetings, Liang told the witness that he could guarantee her safe return to China in exchange for a $6,000 fee for himself, and up to $3,000 to pay for help provided by three others.

During the meetings detailed in the affidavit, Liang refused to provide a written contract to the witness and requested that she pay him in cash, delete text messages and call logs, and begin using a prepaid cellular phone for all future communications.

Unbeknownst to Liang, the witness was cooperating with federal agents, who were monitoring the conversations between Liang and the witness. Liang was arrested by federal authorities as he was walking with the witness toward his car, supposedly to begin a trip to a coffee shop in Corona, where he was going to introduce the witness to the co-conspirators, who are not identified in the affidavit. After his arrest, Liang led agents back to his office, where he returned the $6,000 he had accepted from the witness.

According to the affidavit in Liang’s case, the attorney provided assistance to two other material witnesses – LongJing Yi, and her husband, Jun Xiao – who fled to the U.S. on Apr. 4 and were subsequently charged in relation to their flight from the U.S.  Another material witness who allegedly received help from Liang was intercepted at Los Angeles International Airport on Apr. 15.

If convicted, Liang could face a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.

CPD Places 3rd @ B2V

Staff Reports

Corona – On the weekend of March 28 – 29, the Corona Police Department participated in the 31st Annual Challenge Cup Relay Race, which started in Baker, California, and ended in Las Vegas, Nevada.
After 120 miles of pavement, running all day and all night, the official results are in. Out of 265 teams, the Corona Police Department placed 74th overall and 3rd overall in the 500 Invitational Division, which was the best finish in CPD history. The official finishing team time was 16:33:33, which was an approximate 8:15 per mile pace.
This collaborative team effort would not have been possible if it was not for the hard work by all the runners and support personnel, but more importantly, the staff left back to keep the City in full operation.
Congratulations Team Corona!

 

WV Teams Win 27 Medals At Math Fair

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile 8th Grade WVUSD math team members Ethan Lin, Danny Mansour, Megan Yang, and Timothy Yeh won gold medals at the 2015 L.A. County Math Field Day (shown with teachers Amy Erickson and Gary Dresser).

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
8th Grade WVUSD math team members Ethan Lin, Danny Mansour, Megan Yang, and Timothy Yeh won gold medals at the 2015 L.A. County Math Field Day (shown with teachers Amy Erickson and Gary Dresser).

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley’s high-scoring mathletes brought home a total of 27 medals during the 2015 Los Angeles County Math Field Day.  

“Our teams did a terrific job!” exclaimed Suzanne Middle School math teacher and district coach, Amy Erickson.

Overall grade level trophies were awarded to 5th and 7th Grade teams during the Apr. 25 competition.  Additional top awards included gold medals for 8th Grade, double silver medals for 7th Grade, and silver medals for 6th Grade.  As the newest entry from Walnut Valley, a 5th Grade team, took home gold, silver, and bronze medals.

Math Field Day is an enrichment activity that promotes mathematical reasoning, teamwork and a balanced mathematics curriculum for all students in upper elementary and middle school. Students – working in teams of four – demonstrate their math knowledge in problem solving, conceptual understanding, and computational/procedural skills.

Congratulations to our WVUSD students on an outstanding performance!

8th Grade Team:  Ethan Lin (Suzanne); Danny Mansour (Chaparral); Megan Yang and Timothy Yeh (South Pointe).

7th Grade Team:  Darren Chen, Tyler Xu (Suzanne); Ryan Lou (South Pointe); and Keshan Sriram (Chaparral).

6th Grade Team:  Jacob Khuu, Bryan Wang (Suzanne); Warrick He (Chaparral); and Nathan Song (South Pointe).

5th Grade Team:  Alice Chou, Lina Huang, Zachary Lin and Deven Tseng (Westoff).

4th Grade Team:  Ashley Chan, Alexandros Kam, Rachel Lee, and Alex Wang (Quail Summit).

Each year, Erickson prepares all Walnut Valley mathletes for the county contest during several practices held at Suzanne.  Additional teachers provided supervision during the field day, including Gary Dresser (South Pointe); Sharon Soto and Larry Pinto (Suzanne); and Norma Morales (Quail Summit).

Happy Memorial Day From The Whole Enchilada!

By Claire Lewis

The Whole Enchilada's Grilled Chicken Tostada with Mango Salsa

The Whole Enchilada’s Grilled Chicken Tostada with Mango Salsa

Diamond Bar – Come celebrate Memorial Day at local favorite, The Whole Enchilada!  Whether you are looking to dine in, or have your holiday celebration catered, The Whole Enchilada wants to become your favorite restaurant, too.

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 – and don’t forget their delicious Mexican Kaluha Flan or Rio Grande Mud Pie after your meal!

The Whole Enchilada can help cater any event you have planned featuring their delicious 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 Memorial Day fiesta, business meeting or catered Grand Opening, a fundraiser or birthday party, or even just a wonderful excuse not to cook, 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.

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 gift for Dads and Grads, too!  And be sure to ask about the Combo Punch Card, Enchilada Bucks, and Kids Club.

Don’t deny your taste buds this Memorial Day, 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.

Neighborhood Watch Works

Alert citizen notifies Chino Hills Police of suspicious activity resulting in arrests

 

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Thurs., May 7, an alert Chino Hills resident noticed the three suspects in an older model, black Nissan Maxima. The suspects were seen parked in the area of Avenida Hacienda and Windmill Creek Road, possibly casing homes. The concerned citizen called Sheriff’s Dispatch Center to report the suspicious activity. Deputies quickly responded to the call for service.
According to the Chino Hills Police Department, Atraiu Odell, 26; Jabrii Belgrove, 20; and Theron Childs, 18 – all Riverside County residents – were contacted at the scene.

A subsequent search by Deputies led to the discovery of a radio scanner programmed to the Chino Hills Police radio frequency, a spring loaded center punch (commonly used for breaking windows) and rubber gloves. The three suspects were arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center for being in possession of burglary tools and conspiracy to commit burglary.

After the arrest, Odell was determined to be on probation for Possession for Sales and was recently released from State Prison under the Assembly Bill 109 Prisoner Realignment Program; he is being held in lieu of $30,000 bail.  Belgrove is on active parole for burglary and is being held on a no-bail parole hold.  Childs was out on bail for a previous arrest in another county, and is being held in lieu of $30,000 bail.

Gold Ribbons For Seven PUSD Schools

Award honors outstanding, innovative schools throughout California

 

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – On May 5, Seven Pomona Unified schools were named California Gold Ribbon Schools, the state’s highest award recognizing academic excellence and innovation.

Receiving the awards were Lorbeer Middle, Emerson Middle, Ganesha High, Garey High, Palomares Academy of Health Sciences, Pomona High and Simons Middle schools.

“There are so many exemplary programs our Pomona Unified schools offer, and this award demonstrates the amazing work our staff is doing to strengthen and improve them for the benefit of all our students,” said Board of Education President Andrew Wong.

The Gold Ribbon Award was created to honor schools in place of the California Distinguished Schools program, which is on hiatus while the state creates new assessment and accountability systems and revises how it calculates its Academic Performance Index, a key factor in the old award system.

The individual Pomona Unified campuses were recognized for best practices that can be replicated at other school sites, including boosting parent and community involvement, increasing STEM programs such as robotics, closing the achievement gap and reducing absenteeism through programs such as Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) and other engaging electives.

“I’m so proud of our teachers, administrators and staff for their collaborative efforts in providing rigorous educational opportunities to our students and for improving the educational environments for the students to thrive in,” said PUSD Superintendent Richard Martinez. “These Gold Ribbon awards are a true testament to Pomona Unified families and Pomona Unified team working together to help our students succeed.”

Walnut Council Recap

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza Walnut City Council members, along with Walnut High Principal Jeff Jordan and So Cal Edison Representative Ben Wong, present Ted Zhu with a $40,000 scholarship from Edison’s program. Zhu's mother is also in the photo, next to her son.

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza
Walnut City Council members, along with Walnut High Principal Jeff Jordan and So Cal Edison Representative Ben Wong, present Ted Zhu with a $40,000 scholarship from Edison’s program. Zhu’s mother is also in the photo, next to her son.

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Walnut’s May 13 City Council session was standing room only, as residents and proud parents packed the room to watch Council members hand out recognitions to dozens of Walnut High School students for various activities.

The meeting started out with Walnut High School student, Ted Zhu, receiving not only a recognition from the City, but a $40,000 check from the Southern California Edison Scholarship program. According to Edison Representative, Ben Wong, the company received 2,800 applications for the scholarship, but only selected 30 based on each student’s strong promise in the STEM careers path.

Mayor Nancy Tragarz thanked Zhu for his hard work ethic and wished him luck when using his scholarship money to attend Harvard in the fall.

The Council also recognized the Walnut High Olympiads for finishing fourth in the State Science Olympiad Competition, the Walnut High wrestling team for being undefeated in the Hacienda League Championship, and the outgoing Youth Advisory Commissioners.

A small group of residents were also in attendance purely to speak during the public comment section of the meeting to urge City officials to remove several cell phone towers that are in close proximity to the City’s public schools. While no actions could be taken by the City Council at the time, Tragarz assured the citizens that the City’s Planning Commission would look into the matter.

The Council then approved the minutes for the Apr. 22 special meeting, and the Apr. 22 City Council/Walnut Housing Authority meeting before approving the only item on its public hearing section: a resolution regarding 2015-2016 lighting and open space maintenance assessments.

Following that, the Council then approved all items on its consent calendar including a resolution allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $910,205.66; the authorization to request proposals for the General Plan update; the approval of the Trail Improvement Project in the amount of $24,300; a bid award to National Auto Fleet Group for a City Fleet Vehicle in the amount of $36,770.17;  the appointments of 15 residents to the City’s Mt. San Antonio College development task force; and the United Walnut Taxpayer Facility Fee waiver request.

After the final item was approved, the Council adjourned with plans to meet on May 27, at 7 p.m., in the Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

All In Good Time

Jennifer Jester-Madrigal

Jennifer Jester-Madrigal

By Jennifer Jester-Madrigal

 

“Time is what prevents everything from happening at once,” -John Archibald Wheeler.

Ever wondered why the good things that finally happen to you couldn’t have happened much earlier? If only you had met that person earlier, taken that job earlier or even played those lottery numbers, everything would be so much different!

The truth is, it probably would have been different, but would that “different” actually be an improvement?

I feel like all the happenings of my life have prepared me for the life I live today and the life I will live later.

When I was 22, I had a 3-year old at home and a very, very sick baby fighting for his life in the NICU. I thought that was the worst thing that could ever happen, and then I had Nicholas.

The patience and faith I gained watching Andrew fight for his life, prepared me for the life-long struggle and journey that Nicholas would take me on.

When I was 30, I lost my mother – who was my very best friend – to cancer, but again the patience and faith that I had gained through the previous struggles helped me to cope through the deep hole her loss left.

Here I sit at almost 36; almost a year into a completely new life where I am single with three kids, but happier then I have ever been. Is it ideal?  No.  Is it what I hoped for or would wish for anyone? No, of course not.  But, this is my reality and where I am in this life and I’m making the most of it.

I have learned that every struggle is for a reason and truly does have a purpose – even when it is not obvious at the time. The new relationships I have formed and the new path I’m on now have been paved by the experiences of yesterday, and because of that I am able to appreciate the walk I’m on now.

I’m not perfect.  I still fail and struggle daily, but I’d like to think the life I was so graciously given has humbled me a bit. Less is more, and I am content with what I have at this time and extremely excited and a little nervous about what the future holds. However, I know that whatever it does hold, my life up to this day has given me the tools to figure it out and find my way…and that it all will be okay, all in good time.

Major Marijuana Seizure In Industry

 

Photo Courtesy: Industry Sheriff’s Station

Photo Courtesy: Industry Sheriff’s Station

Staff Reports

City of Industry – On Tues., May 12, Deputies and Narcotics Detectives assigned to Industry Sheriff’s Station conducted a search warrant in the City of Industry, discovering and seizing a large marijuana grow within a warehouse.

Deputies arrived at the location on the 18000 block of Railroad St., along with members from the Los Angeles County Fire Department in response to a fire alarm call for service.

According to the Industry Sheriff’s Station, Deputies smelled the overwhelming odor of fresh marijuana upon arrival, and saw various items used in cultivation, including lights, chemicals and more.  A search warrant was obtained and Deputies later discovered three separate rooms containing over 300 plants in various stages of maturity with an approximate street value of over $1.2 million.

Deputies have arrested an Asian male in his late 40s, associated with the indoor grow. His name is being withheld pending further investigation.

This investigation is ongoing.  If you have any related information, please contact Industry Station Narcotics Detectives at (626) 330-3322. If you wish to remain anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

CH Deputies Thank Students

Photo Courtesy: Chino Hills PD

Photo Courtesy: Chino Hills PD

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – A box full of heartfelt thank you letters was recently left in the lobby of the Chino Hills Station, evoking emotions in the deputies at the Station that are often not shared by members of the law enforcement community.
“When I read the letters written by these junior high students I was overwhelmed with emotions,” said Chino Hills Lt. Dave Phelps. “I am honored to be in the law enforcement profession and these students summed up the reason why: It is about service and protection of others.”
The letters were delivered anonymously, but because the personnel at the Chino Hills Station are trained investigators, it was quickly learned the letters were written by children from a class at Canyon Hills Junior High in Chino Hills.
“Dear Sheriff, Thank you,” one letter read. “You risk your lives for ordinary citizens. You try your best every day. You aren’t afraid of doing what’s right. You are my inspiration and my hero.”
And other letters encouraged deputies to know people value the job they do:
“I hope you know people appreciate the things you do,” read the letter. “…Even though I don’t know you personally, I know you are great and amazing [people].”
“So if you ever think the world doesn’t need you anymore just know we do need you!” a letter from a 7th Grader read. “At the end of every day just know you are very much respected.”
Capt. Robert Guillen, who serves as Chief of Police for the Chino Hills contract station, shared the letters with the men and women at the Station. The unexpected gift provided encouragement that deputies do not often get. Guillen and his crew are grateful to serve a city with future leaders such as these students.
“Together we felt honored to share this community with those students and felt an even stronger obligation to serve,” Guillen said.
According to Guillen, he wanted to personally thank the students and organized a visit from Sheriff John McMahon and the members of the Chino Hills Station to do just that. On the morning of Mon., May 11, Sheriff McMahon, Capt. Guillen, and about a dozen members representing all ranks from the Chino Hills Station visited the classroom of Mrs. Rosen, the teacher who prompted her students to write the letters.
The students asked some very insightful questions about law enforcement, such as the role of psychology in the profession and the requirements to become a deputy. They also asked informal questions about hairstyles and why police drive Ford vehicles. The most poignant question was, why do law enforcement professionals do what they do. The answers varied from person to person.
Guillen spoke about the calling to be in law enforcement and the responsibility deputies face in their day to day jobs. Lt. Phelps talked about the freedom of not being stuck behind a desk, getting out into the community and having fun.
When asked what they would be if they were not in law enforcement, Sheriff McMahon and Capt. Guillen both answered the same: there is nothing else they would rather do. Law enforcement is the profession they have the greatest passion for and have always wanted to pursue.
Monday’s event was a great way to connect the “anonymous” students with the nameless and faceless deputies they were writing to. And it was a way for the deputies to say thank you for such a simple gesture that had such a great impact.
The letters touched members across all ranks of the Chino Hills Station giving a much-needed sense of optimism to members of a profession that has been under such intense scrutiny. Despite the fact more than 99% of all public interaction with law enforcement ends peacefully and with no conflict, stories of alleged misconduct seem to permeate public dialogue.

Gold Ribbon To Three WV Schools

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Chaparral eighth graders arrange tiles to form tessellations during math class on May 5.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Chaparral eighth graders arrange tiles to form tessellations during math class on May 5.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley’s three middle schools – Chaparral, South Pointe, and Suzanne – have been designated as 2015 California Gold Ribbon Schools for having exemplary standards and practices.

“These schools are academically successful, vibrant and innovative centers of learning and teaching,” said Tom Torlakson, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “They provide great examples of the things educators are doing right – embracing rigorous academic standards, providing excellence and creativity in teaching, and creating a positive school climate.”

The state’s highest recognition went to only 373 of the 10,366 public schools in the state.

In addition, South Pointe and Suzanne were selected as having Exemplary Programs in Arts Education.

This was the first year the state issued Gold Ribbon awards. The program temporarily replaces the California Distinguished Schools Program while officials create new assessment and accountability systems.

WVUSD principals overwhelmingly attributed the achievement to the dedicated students, staff, and supportive community on their campuses.

“This is an honor that we at Chaparral are very proud of,” Principal Ron Thibodeaux stated. “We’ve put a lot into making our school a 21st century learning environment, and the Gold Ribbon validates the hard work of our learning community. Our teachers and staff, parents and students are wonderful.”

“South Pointe is proud to be recognized by the state for its innovative approach to implementing 21st century Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math programs,” said Principal Susan Arzola. “We believe that by putting the “A” (the Arts) in STEM, we provide all students a well-balanced, joyful learning experience. Come watch them STEAM ahead!”

“We are honored to receive the state’s Gold Ribbon award!” said Principal Les Ojeda. ”It reflects the hard work by our Suzanne students, teachers, staff, and parents to ensure we develop students who are prepared academically and ready to face real-world challenges. I am very proud of our school.”

Schools applied for the award based on a model program their school has adopted that includes standards-based activities, projects, strategies, and practices that can be replicated by other local educational agencies.

In Walnut Valley, Gold Ribbon model programs are the 21st Century Classroom Initiative: Chaparral; STEAM Program: South Pointe; and Global Citizenship: Suzanne.

The new award is recognizing middle and high schools this year, and elementary schools in 2016.

Pomona PD Foils Kidnapping In Progress

Staff Reports

Pomona – On Fri., May 8, at approximately 5:12 p.m., officers from the Pomona Police Department’s Major Crimes Task Force conducted a traffic stop in the area of 1700 Gillette Rd. regarding a vehicle code violation. During the traffic stop, the driver of the vehicle did not immediately yield at which point a short vehicle pursuit ensued.

During the pursuit, an occupant of the suspect vehicle was seen discarding a firearm.  The pursuit finally came to a stop and three of the male occupants were taken into custody.  Carlos Gonzales, 32, of Pomona; Juan Sanchez, 22, of Pomona, and Richard Rodriguez, 29, a transient, were arrested at the scene.

A fourth occupant of the vehicle was found to be the victim of a kidnapping, who was being held captive through the use of fear tactics.  The victim was also allegedly raped by a suspect who was not present at the traffic stop.
Through an extensive investigation, the suspect of the rape was identified as Robert Lundberg, 49, of Claremont. On May 8 at approximately 11:15 p.m., Lundberg was taken into custody at the intersection of Towne Ave. and La Verne Ave. after officers saw him leaving his residence. Officers obtained a search warrant for Suspect Lundberg’s residence in order to recover the victim’s stolen property and additional evidence related to this crime.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Pomona Police Department at (909) 620-2085. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” at (800) 222-TIPS (8477).

Quality Comes First At Peterson Auto Repair

Peterson Automotive pic WEBBy K.P. Sander

Walnut – If you are looking for a local automotive repair center that performs quality work at reasonable prices – and delivers it all with excellent service – look no further than Peterson Auto Repair Center.

Peterson now houses a full mechanic shop to serve all your automotive needs.  They not only specialize in lube and oil changes, but also repair and maintain radiators, alternators, starters, brakes, clutches, shocks and struts, axles,  air conditioning, belts and hoses, and much, much more.

In business for over 15 years, owner Eric Peterson says, “For me, it’s all about providing quality automotive repair for the neighborhood.  I grew up in La Puente and Walnut, and we have so many good customers in this area.  We really appreciate the business and word of mouth referrals.”

Carhelp.com customers agree, consisting giving Peterson high marks for quality workmanship and fair pricing.

Look for Peterson to add quality auto-body services to the business in the future.

Peterson Auto Repair has a new location inside the same Big Valley Industrial Park.  Look for them a few doors down at 3980-A Valley Boulevard in the City of Walnut.

Peterson Auto Repair Center is open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  They can be reached at (909) 598-3881.  Mention their ad (see page 10 of this publication) and get an oil change for just $21.99 (plus tax and fees).

Chaparral Students Making A Difference

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Chaparral students made improvements at a community garden through a Disney Friends for Change grant.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Chaparral students made improvements at a community garden through a Disney Friends for Change grant.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Chaparral Middle School’s HUMANitarian Club is dedicated to serving.  For the past nine years, members have reached out to area homeless through local shelter programs.

On Global Youth Service Day, the 30 students continued their good deeds by making lunches for a shelter in San Gabriel.  The project was funded through a $400 Sodexo Youth Grant written by 6th Grader, Srijani Krishnan.

“It’s great that everyone is here to help the homeless,” she said to club members. “All the food will go to the St. Vianney Food Pantry today.”

Over 30 members met after school on Apr. 17 to make sack lunches with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fruit snacks, candy bars, and bottles of water. Volunteers from the United Cougars assisted with the project.

“It’s awesome that you’re taking your time to make this happen for 144 folks,” said Principal Ron Thibodeaux.

A hunger awareness video was also created to share with classmates.

“It makes you feel good and its fun, too,” said 7th Grader Darren Lo.

Club members also volunteered at the San Gabriel Valley Winter Shelter and sung Christmas carols at a retirement home in Walnut last winter.

President Sydney Robinson was awarded a $500 grant from the “Disney’s Friends for Change” program to make improvements at the Center Street Community Garden in Pomona.

Other HUMANitarian volunteers and their families joined the service project on Apr. 18.

“They harvested food, painted a structure to hold garden announcements, and wrote inspirational messages on rocks to beautify the garden,” said advisor Sherry Robertson.

The members helped paint and shovel mulch at the garden earlier in the month.

“The kids worked so hard!” Robertson said. “It was a cool experience, and we’re eager to go again!”

A police report stated that crime decreased by 50% with the addition of the new garden.

“It’s pretty impactful,” she said.

May 2015 SGV News

May 2015 SGV News

SGV News covers Diamond Bar, Walnut, La Puente, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of the San Gabriel Valley; portions of the western Inland Empire; and northern Orange County. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: 2015-05-SGVNews-WEB

OC Firefighter Pleads Guilty

Child porn charges to produce explicit photos of young girls abroad

 

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – A Huntington Beach commercial firefighter pleaded guilty on Fri., May 8, to a federal charge of attempting to produce child pornography.

John McArthur, 57, a California-licensed fire captain – who at the time of the criminal conduct in 2012 worked for a ConocoPhillips oil refinery in San Pedro – pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Josephine Staton.

An investigation revealed that in Jan. 2012, McArthur had online conversations with a person he believed was a 13-year old girl in the Philippines. During those online conversations, McArthur agreed to send money for the purchase of a camera that would be used to take sexually explicit photographs of the girl and an 11-year old friend. McArthur later went to a Western Union agent to transfer the money to the minor.

Unbeknownst to McArthur at the time, the person posing as the 13-year old girl was Robert Oliver Clark, 75, a United States citizen residing in the Philippines. Clark was arrested in September 2014 in a related case, and he has agreed to plead guilty to possession of child pornography. In a plea agreement recently filed in United States District Court, Clark admitted that he “possessed, in his computer hard drive and in his email accounts, 5,443 images and 53 videos of child pornography, including 43 images and 1 video portraying sadistic or masochistic conduct and 16 images portraying toddlers.” Clark, who resided in Texas prior to moving to the Philippines, is scheduled to enter his guilty plea on May 21 in United States District Court in Los Angeles.

During this investigation, law enforcement authorities discovered that McArthur received hundreds of images and several videos of child pornography through his email accounts.

McArthur is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Staton on Aug. 21, at which time he faces a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison.

The investigation into McArthur and Clark was headed by the United States Postal Inspection Service, which received substantial assistance from the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; and the Los Angeles Joint Regional Intelligence Center.

“Protecting children from crimes of sexual abuse and exploitation is a priority for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service,” stated Robert Wemyss, Inspector in Charge for the Los Angeles Division. “I’m proud of the work of the Postal Inspection Service and our investigative partners to bring child predators to justice. U.S. Postal Inspectors have investigated these crimes for more than a century. While the predators’ use of technology has evolved, the core harm has not changed: a child’s lost innocence. We will not lose sight of this, and remain steadfast in our efforts to investigate, apprehend, and assist in the prosecution of those who seek to exploit children via the U.S. Mail, wherever in the world they may be.”

 

San Gabriel Valley Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

67th Annual Mt. SAC Student Art Show

When:  Now through June 4, Tues/Wed/Thurs, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Tues, 5 to 7:30 p.m; Special Reception May 14, 4 to 6 p.m.

Where:  Mt. SAC Art Gallery, Walnut

Details:  Annual show featuring the best original work by art, photography and animation students.  Free, open to the public.

Contact:  Art Gallery, (909) 274-4328.

Kids’ Night Out

When:  May 16; Jun. 20; Jul. 18; 6 to 9 p.m.

Where:  Chino Youth Museum, 13191 6th St., Chino

Details:  Participants enjoy a fun Saturday evening at the Museum while parents enjoy a nice evening out.  Art projects, games, dinner – all with a caring staff.  Ages 4 to 10.  $12 members/$15 general.  Pre-registration is required.

Contact: (909) 334.3270 during normal operating hours, Wed. – Sun., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; or visit chinoyouthmuseum.com.

Chino Valley Job & College Fair

When:  Wed., May 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where:  New Hope Christian Fellowship, 13333 Ramona Ave., chino

Details:  30 employers will be recruiting to fill a variety of positions in all genres.

Contact:  Register by visiting newhopechino.net/job-fair.html, or call (909) 628-8612, ext. 101.

St. Lorenzo Ruiz 3-Day Event

When:  May 22 – 24

Where:  St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Church, 747 Meadowpass Rd., Walnut

Details:  5/22: Mass, 6:30 p.m., Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, 7:30 p.m.; 5/23: Breakfast, 7 a.m., Pentecost Fun Run, 8 a.m., Mini Carnival, 9:30 a.m., Pentecost Vigil Mass, 5 p.m., Fellowship Dinner, 6:30 p.m.; 5/24: Multilingual Eucharist Mass (all daily masses combined), 11:30 a.m., International Food Festival, 1 p.m. .

Contact:  (909) 595-9545

All-Sports Expo

When:  Sat., May 30; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where:  Ontario Convention Center.

Details:  A day for families, athletes, coaches, trainers, nutritionists and all sports enthusiasts to come together and engage in the latest techniques in training, workouts, college opportunities, financial aid, starting a business and the general love of all sports.  Professional athletes will share their experiences.

Contact:  Tickets are $10.00, $8.00 (online) and $7.00 (groups of 15 or more).  For more information, visit the website at www.thecollegeexpo.org or call NCRF corporate office at (909) 396-0151.

First Friday Food Trucks                                                     

When:  June 5; July 3; Aug. 7; Sept. 11; Oct. 2; Nov. 6; Dec. 4

Where:  WVUSD, Parking Lot, 880 S. Lemon Ave., Walnut

Details:  Enjoy gourmet food, great weather and good friends while supporting education!  Truck line-up:  The Slummin’ Gourmet; Piaggio; Me So Hungry; Street Food; Bakery Truck.

Pomona Inner City Homeless Ministry Dinner

When:  The 4th Saturday monthly: June 27, July 25, etc.

Where:  First Baptist Church of Pomona, 601 N. Garey Ave., Pomona

Details:  Come help serve the homeless and economically disadvantaged at monthly dinners.  Volunteers meet in E202 (2nd Floor) at 12 noon for prayer/devotion, followed by orientation, clothing and hygiene kit distribution, and instruction for serving dinner to the homeless.  Ministry ends by 4:30 p.m.

Free Summer Lunch Program

When:  Mon. – Fri., July 1 to Aug. 21; 12 to 1 p.m. (subject to change on Tues/Thurs).

Where:  Community Building Park, 5443 B St., Chino; and Monte Vista Park, 13196 Monte Vista Ave., Chino

Details:  Children 18 and younger are welcome to enjoy a free, nutritious lunch with fun activities this summer.  The City of Chino is providing this in collaboration with the USDA and the California Department of Education.

Pomona Police Great Campout

When:  July 10-11

Where:  Pomona Fairplex

Details:  Applications are now being accepted for kids ages 9 – 12 to stay overnight in a safe environment promoting responsibility, respect and positive decision making.  Limited to 300 registrants.  All campers receive a new sleeping bag, dinner and breakfast.

Contact:  Applications are being accepted daily at the Pomona Police Department, (909) 620-2318; or at the City Hall Community Program (Mon. – Thurs., 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.).

 

REGULAR EVENTS:

Alcohol and Addiction Intervention Information

When: Third Tuesday, monthly; 6 p.m.

Where:  Aurora Charter Oak Hospital, 1161 E. Covina Blvd., Covina

Details:  Free information sessions about the intervention process, a powerful tool to combat alcoholism and addiction.  Attendees can expect to learn what the intervention process consists of, when an intervention is appropriate, and what local resources are available.  Space is limited and reservations are recommended.

Contact:  Call (626) 859-5269, or visit http://www.charteroakhospital.com.

Free Acupuncture for Veterans, Active Military, First Responders

When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Where: 12598 Central Avenue, 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: Free Admission/Parking

Features: Seasonal organic produce, breads and cakes, olive oils, cheese and spreads, a variety of nursery plants, hand-crafted items and jewelry, fresh-popped Kettle Corn and grilled food plates.

Contact: (909) 869-0701

 

Maple Hill Receives $1,000 For Books

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar Friends of the Library presented a $1,000 donation for new library books at Maple Hill Elementary (shown with President Chris Ko, Principal Nancy Stingley and students).

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar Friends of the Library presented a $1,000 donation for new library books at Maple Hill Elementary (shown with President Chris Ko, Principal Nancy Stingley and students).

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – Maple Hill Elementary’s Library Media Center will be getting lots of new books thanks to a generous donation from the Diamond Bar Friends of the Library.  Board members from the non-profit presented a check for $1,000 to fund titles from the school’s “wish list” on Apr. 17.

“We have established a new book fund that we are implementing for public schools in Diamond Bar,” announced President Chris Ko.

Maple Hill received the first gift from the organization.

The wonderful new library that opened in late February was created from two connecting portables with fiction and non-fiction spaces.

“Just being able to continually add books to the collections is phenomenal and we appreciate this donation so much,” said Principal Nancy Stingley. ”It gives our students the incentive to read and nourishes their mind.”

A grassroots campaign funded new carpet, paint, furniture, ceiling tiles, and shelving for the library.

“It was all a school effort with lots of support from our parents and community,’ said Principal Nancy Stingley. The renovation wasn’t part of the school modernization plan.

Maple Hill 82-year old grandfather and artist, Cor Grieve, painted vivid murals making the library a one-of-a kind reading sanctuary.  He’s added ten paintings around the campus in the past two years.  Lions, zebras, and giraffes roam in the African Savanna depicted in the non-fiction room.  Across the library, fictional characters Clifford, Arthur, Winnie the Pooh, Little Red Riding Hood, and Harry Potter decorate the walls.

“We wanted to make sure that when we did the library that it would be a fun place for students to come – and such a lively place they wouldn’t want to leave,” Stingley said. “That was our goal and I think we achieved that!”

“It’s really a great place,” Diamond Bar Mayor Pro Tem and Friends’ Board Member Nancy Lyons commented during the tour.

Arrests Made In Missing Juvenile Case

Photo Courtesy: Pomona PD

Photo Courtesy: Pomona PD

Staff Reports

Pomona – On Sat., Apr. 18, 13-year old Katherine Vance was reported missing by her parents.  Since that time, Pomona Detectives have been working diligently in locating the teen.

According to the Pomona Police Department, after multiple interviews with the victim’s family and friends, Detectives were led to a home in the 1000 block of E. Grand Avenue on Thurs., Apr. 30.  During a subsequent search of that residence, the victim was located hiding underneath the bed of her 17-year old boyfriend.

Based upon information received throughout the course of their investigation, Detectives arrested the 17-year old male, along with his mother – Wilma Brooks, 38, of Pomona – on the charges of Concealing a Child from the Parents.  The male was transported to Los Padrinos Juvenile Hall, and suspect Brooks is (at press time) being held in the Pomona Jail in lieu of $40,000 bail.

Victim Vance was unharmed, but based on the circumstances was taken into protective custody by the Department of Children Services pending further investigation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Pomona Police Department at (909) 620-2085.  If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-TIPS (8477).

CVUSD Implements GPS For School Buses

By Claire Lewis

West Covina – The Covina Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) has successfully completed the installation of the WaveControls GPS Tracking system on their entire fleet of school buses.

This new system allows CVUSD to track the location of their fleet on a minute-by-minute basis, increasing the safety and efficiency of the entire operation for the District.  Furthermore, this system provides the ability to know what time a school bus arrived at and departed each individual bus stop, as well as monitor bus speed and any dangerous conditions that might exist.

This system is part of CVUSD’s commitment to the safety of the children that are entrusted to them.  By implementing the WaveControls GPS Tracking System, the District is ensuring that the most cutting-edge technology is used to improve safety and increase operational effectiveness.

WaveControls would like to credit the following individuals at CVUSD for all of their hard work in making this system successfully come to life:

  • Debbie Shipley, VM&T Supervisor
  • Michelle Vanderlinden, Business Officer
  • Jeff Bloedorn, Chief Facilities Officer

For more information, visit www.wavecontrols.com.