Category Archives: News By City

Local City Council Reports

(Photo By: Raymond Mendoza) Golden State Water Company General Manager Benjamin Lewis presents during the Walnut City Council meeting to inform the public of California's massive drought problem and the ways that residents can help reach a 25 percent water use reduction.

(Photo By: Raymond Mendoza)
Golden State Water Company General Manager Benjamin Lewis presents during the Walnut City Council meeting to inform the public of California’s massive drought problem and the ways that residents can help reach a 25 percent water use reduction.

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut/Diamond Bar – The major topic of the evening for the Walnut City Council was California’s drought concerns as members from the Walnut Valley Water District, Suburban Water Systems and Golden State Water Company all spoke to urge residents to cut down their water usage during the worst drought California has seen in years.

After Governor Jerry Brown called for the State to cut 25 percent of its water usage on Apr. 1, California’s cities and water districts have started scrambling to inform residents of new restrictions in the hopes of reaching the newly mandated goal.

Some new regulations included not being allowed to irrigate turf or ornamental landscapes for 48 hours following measurable precipitation, restaurants only giving water upon request, hotels and motels cutting down on laundry service frequency, and having water utility companies inform their customers when they are aware of leaks that are within a customer’s control.

Darleen Phares, Water Conservation Manager for Suburban Water Systems, said that residential areas will be limited to certain days for watering their lawns and that no lawn watering can be done on Fridays.

Walnut Valley Water District General Manager, Mike Holmes, answered questions along with Golden State Water Company General Manager, Benjamin Lewis, and Phares, further explaining that Walnut residents can help by following renewed ordinances and new restrictions.

Furthermore, cash penalties will be enforced for reported water wasting for residents and businesses.

Golden State Water Company urged residents to call its 24-hour hotline at (800) 999-4033, or visit bewaterwise.com or gswater.com/drought, to analyze their usage and to identify other opportunities to improve their water-use efficiency.

Following the presentation, the council members approved the minutes of their Apr. 8 meeting; Resolution No. 15-20 for claims and demands in the amount of $697,250.56; a donation to the American Cancer Society 2015 Walnut Relay for Life for support services and equipment; and the approval of final landscape plans for a new residential development located at 650 Camino De Teodoro within the C-1 Zone.

After the council delivered their comments and updates, they adjourned for the evening with plans to meet May 13 at 7 p.m., in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

Like the City of Walnut, “25” was the big number of the evening at the Diamond Bar City Council’s Apr. 21 meeting, as a member of the Walnut Valley Water District informed council members and residents about the intense drought that California is currently facing; meaning that the city would have to cut its total water usage down by 25 percent.

Walnut Valley Water District General Manager, Mike Holmes, initially commended Diamond Bar residents for reducing their water usage as the state goes through the worst drought in recent history, but he also stated that even more conservation is needed because of a lack of rainfall in the last few years has pushed California into a state of crisis.

Holmes said Diamond Bar is on track to cut its city-wide water usage by 20 percent by 2020 – a number originally created to combat the drought when Arnold Schwarzenegger was Governor- but now recent concerns have now pushed that number up to 25 percent.

“We’re in the fourth year of a drought, this is urgent, the time to be concerned is now and the time to act is now and everyone in California needs to do their part,” Holmes said.

During Holmes’ presentation, he mentioned the reality of the situation by noting that 27 million Californians live in an exceptional drought area and that Diamond Bar, in particular, is 100 percent dependant on imported water.

Since the City is mandating more water cuts, they are restricting use of outdoor residential irrigation to two days a week, no watering of lawns two days before or after predicted rainfall, food establishments should only bring water to patrons upon request, and hotels should reduce the amount of times they wash towels and linens.

Holmes said residents can get water saving tips, rebates and incentives at bewaterwise.com, and to continue the efforts to bring the state’s water usage down as the drought continues.

After the presentation, the schedule of future events was listed with the next Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Apr. 23, Arbor Day on Apr. 24, the Planning Commission meeting on Apr. 28 and the next City Council meeting on May 5.

The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including the minutes for the meeting on Apr. 7; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Mar. 12; ratification of the check register dated Apr. 12 through Apr. 15, totaling $1,246,154.27;  the approval of Contract Amendment No. 4 with RKA Consulting Group for Federal Funding Compliance Services related to the Grand Avenue Beautification Project in the amount of $24,220; and the approval of a Notice of Completion for the Community Development Block Grant Area 2 Sidewalk Pre-placement project.

Following the final items and the council member reports, the City Council adjourned with plans to meet again on May 5 at 6:30 p.m., in the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

Fore The Kids

Diamond Bar Community Foundation and Walnut Valley Rotary tee it up “Fore the Kids”

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar Community Foundation (DBCF) and the Walnut Valley Rotary Club will be hosting their fifth annual golf tournament at Western Hills Country Club in Chino Hills, on May 11, at 9 a.m.  This fund-raising event will benefit local children.

The Golf tournament will include a scramble format, putting contest, breakfast, lunch, a chance to win a car, raffle prizes and silent auctions.

Special guests in attendance will include comedic actor and former teen heartthrob, Scott Baio, local dignitaries and Diamond Bar city officials.

“The Golfing ‘Fore the Kids’ tournament is one of the major fundraisers for both the Diamond Bar Community Foundation and the Walnut Valley Rotary Club,” states Lew Herndon, Fields For Kids Coordinator. “This year the Foundation’s majority portion will be directed to the Fields For Kids Project.”

The Fields For Kids project was formed under the DBCF to raise awareness and concern for the lack of sports fields in Diamond Bar. Today, there are over 6,000 kids that participate in youth sports in Diamond Bar, but there are not enough fields to accommodate them. With the increasing rate of childhood obesity, Diamond Bar cannot afford to turn area kids away due to lack of fields. The Fields For Kids golf tournament will help to put a dent in tackling this decade-old problem.

The DBCF is looking for sponsors and golfers to participate in this exciting event. Visit www.thedbcf.org to sponsor or register today.

The Diamond Bar Community Foundation was established to raise money for art, recreation, and cultural programs in the City of Diamond Bar in order to preserve, protect and enhance the quality of life for its residents. The DBCF is proud to provide sports scholarships and equipment for youth in our community, approve grants for organizations, and fund and support select City events and programs. To learn more about the DBCF, visit www.thedbcf.org. 

The Mosquitoes Are Back

National Mosquito Awareness Week

Beware of these critters!

(Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia) Ew!

(Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)
Ew!

Staff Reports

Ontario – The onset of warm weather has increased mosquito breeding in the West Valley. Vector Control surveillance has seen increased adult mosquitoes in their traps designed to catch females looking for a blood meal and those looking for a water source to deposit their eggs.

The West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District warns residents that the breeding season is upon us, and preventing mosquito breeding in your backyard early will pay off in the long run! The District has sent reminder letters to residents to clean up pools and water sources now so they won’t have to worry about visits from mosquitoes or mosquito control technicians!

Next week is national mosquito awareness week – the perfect time to take a moment and remove those pesky critters from your yard.  The District will be conducting aerial surveillance flights for suspect water sources in backyards in the northern portion of the district (Rancho Cucamonga, North Ontario, Montclair) beginning on Mon., Apr. 20, and will be sending letters out to residents with neglected swimming pools shortly thereafter. Technicians will be visiting homes to help reduce mosquito breeding threats throughout the following week.

The District reminds residents that the West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District is a Public Health Agency, and its mission is to provide help and protection against mosquitoes and other vector-borne diseases. The District also provides mosquitofish, a small, guppy-like fish that residents can put in water sources such as ponds, fountains, and water gardens to control mosquito breeding.

The District is here to help with mosquito problems, and will even take anonymous calls regarding green pools or other mosquito breeding sources.  It takes everyone’s participation to help fight mosquito-transmitted diseases, including West Nile Virus and Malaria.

For more information, call (909) 635-0307, or visit www.wvmvcd.org.

 

Mt. SAC Students Win 15 HOSA Medals

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College health career students won a total of 15 medals, including nine gold medals and four silver medals, at the Health Occupation Students of America (HOSA) state leadership conference held March 25 – 30 in Sacramento. More than 2,500 students competed at the state competition.

Daniel Lee (Fullerton), Holly Miller (La Habra), Noehly Partida (Pomona), and Leilani Soto (Ontario) won gold medals in the creative problem solving competition. Amy Barraza (Cudahy), Yessenia Campos (El Monte), Yvonne Prempeh (Fontana), and Jose Montiel-Flores (Baldwin Park) won gold medals in the biomedical debate competition. Miller also won a gold medal in the human growth and development competition.

Jessica Benavente (Hesperia), Patrick Chan (La Puente), and Nicole Villanueva (Pomona) took silver medals in creative problem solving. Lee also won a silver medal in the human growth and development competition.

Villanueva also took a bronze medal in the pathophysiology competition, and Campos took bronze in trans-cultural healthcare competition.

All 11 Mt. SAC students will advance to the national HOSA competition to be held June 24 – 27 at the Anaheim Hilton.

HOSA, established in 1976 by the U.S. Department of Education, is the national organization for secondary and post-secondary health career students. The organization provides students in 40 states with skills, leadership development, and career development.

CH Deputies Arrest 2 For Identity Theft

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – The Chino Hills Police Department has been investigating a series of crimes associated with credit card and identity thefts.  One of these cases led members of the Chino Hills Multiple Enforcement Team to the city of Upland to locate and interview a person of interest.

On Tues., Apr. 14, at approximately 5:24 p.m., the Team contacted the residents of an apartment located on the 170 block of Armstrong Way.  During the course of the investigation, Deputies determined that residents Lan Le, 31, of Rowland Heights, and Adam Le, 32, of Upland, were in possession of stolen credit cards, stolen personal information used to obtain fraudulent credit, and equipment used for counterfeiting credit cards.

Deputies arrested both men for investigation of conspiracy to commit a crime, identity theft, and credit card fraud.  The suspects were booked into the West Valley Detention Center, and held in lieu of $50,000 bail.

Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact Deputies from the Chino Hills Multiple Enforcement Team at (909) 364-2000.

DEL Records Donates $12,000 To Nogales HS

By Gina K. Ward

DEL WEBRowland Heights – On Fri., Apr. 10, the Rowland Unified School District announced that DEL Records – the largest regional record company in the United States – along with SONY Latin U.S., has donated more than $12,000 to RUSD for student and teacher scholarships.

“On behalf of DEL Records, we are pleased to make a difference in the lives of future leaders,” said Nogales High School Alumnus and Executive Vice President of External Affairs for DEL Records, Brian Gutierrez. Of the funds donated, DEL Records will contribute $5,000 to Nogales High School for student scholarships that will be awarded to graduating seniors and one underclassman student.

“We want to recognize students for their academic efforts, good citizenship and commitment to their community. DEL Records believes that students today are the leaders of tomorrow,” said Gutierrez.

Nogales High School students can apply for the DEL Records Scholarship beginning the week of Apr. 27.

An additional $3,000 will be used for RUSD teacher classroom grants.

“It is important that teachers are recognized for their hard work and dedication to students. This grant will allow them a shopping spree to buy materials and other items for their classrooms and students,” said Angel Del Villar, owner of DEL Records.

A donation of $4,200 was also made by DEL Records to support this year’s “Principal For A Day” event, which supports schools and student scholarships for the Bassett, Hacienda, La Puente, and Rowland Unified School Districts, and the La Puente Valley Regional Occupational Program.

DEL Records is the largest Latin Regional music record label in North America and is a subsidiary of Sony Music Entertainment Latin U.S. For more information, visit www.delrecords.com or www.Facebook.com/DelRecords.

 

 

DB Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar City Council met for their first meeting of the month on Tues., Apr. 7, beginning with two proclamations:  one for designating April 2015 as DMV/Donate Life California; and the other naming April 24 as Arbor Day.

Mayor Steve Tye said becoming a donor of organ, tissue, marrow and blood is a life saving act and he encourages all Diamond Bar residents to become donors due to the shortage of donated organs and blood that leads to thousands of deaths each year.

Following the first proclamation, Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Lyons stated that this year’s Arbor Day would be on April 24. Lyons noted that the proud tradition of Arbor Day not only helps save the planet, but also provides countless resources and continues Diamond Bar’s tradition of being a “Tree City USA” designee.   The day will be marked with an event at Pantera Elementary Park at 9:15 a.m., with school children giving presentations about the history of Arbor Day, the planting of several new trees, and each child being given a seedling to plant their own tree.

After the proclamations, the schedule of future events was listed to include the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Apr. 9, the City’s birthday celebration on Apr. 11 at Pantera Park, the Planning Commission meeting on Apr. 14, the Pop-up City Hall on Apr. 18 at the Towne Center, and the next City Council meeting on Apr. 21.

The Council then approved all items on its consent calendar including the City Council minutes for Mar. 17; the Planning Commission minutes for Jan. 27, Feb. 24 and Mar. 10; the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting of Feb. 26; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Jan. 8 and Feb. 12; the ratification of check register dated Mar. 12 through Apr. 1 totaling $1,005,308.73; the Treasurer’s Statement for Feb. 2015; the approval of a contract amendment with Tait and Associates, Inc. for a Comprehensive Groundwater Drainage Study in the amount of $9,070; the approval of a contract amendment for storm water compliance and environmental engineering services with John L. Hunter and Associates for a total amount of $67,133, plus a contingency amount of $6,000; the approval of fiscal year 2015-16 City Council Goals and Objectives; a resolution accepting the easement for public street and slope purposes over the Brea Canyon Flood Control Channel;  authorization for the City Manager to enter into a contract for annual independent audit services with Lance, Soll and Lunghard, LLP, for fiscal years 2015-16 through 2016-17, with an option for two one-year extensions; the adoption of a resolution declaring the City’s intention to levy and collect assessments for Landscape District No. 38; and direction for the City Clerk to advertise the Public Hearing before the Council at the May 19 regular meeting.

Following the consent calendar approval, the City Council adjourned with plans to meet on Apr. 21 at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

Is Nestlé Ignoring The Drought?

Nestlé ’s perspective in the wake of finger pointing.

Photo Courtesy: Arrowhead.com

Photo Courtesy: Arrowhead.com

By K.P. Sander 

Riverside County – By now you have most likely heard of Gov. Jerry Brown’s (D-California) declaration of a statewide drought emergency, urging all Californians to reduce their water usage by 20 percent.  Not surprising, with California facing one of its most severe droughts on record.

Municipalities and individuals alike are trying to do their part: shorter showers, landscaping changes, fixing leaky faucets, and more.  But what about Corporate America?  Is everyone doing their part?

There is some controversy surrounding corporate giant, Nestlé Waters North America, owner of Arrowhead Water.  Arrowhead Mountain Spring Water is sourced from a natural spring located on the reservation for the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, located at the base of the San Bernardino Mountains.

Nestlé leases tribal land and has been extracting the water from wells near the spring for about 15 years.  With underground water stores declining due to the drought – in a desert area that only gets a few inches of rainfall each year – many are wondering how much water Nestlé is extracting, and what accountability measures are in place.

The Morongo Reservation is in itself a sovereign nation, and as such is not required to comply with Gov. Brown’s drought mandate.  But is that allowing Nestlé to make environmentally unconscionable decisions?

The Desert Sun reported that Morongo filed a 2013 accounting with the state for 598 acre-feet of groundwater being pumped: “Those amounts translate to about 200 million gallons a year,” or enough water for approximately 400 typical desert homes.”  Nestlé allegedly stopped releasing annual reports of accountability in 2009.

The spring in question was sold by the Cabazon Water District to the Morongo tribe in early 2000, and the Arrowhead bottling production started shortly thereafter.  While no one is questioning that the plant helps the economy in terms of jobs, some say bottling the water in the midst of a severe drought is not the best use of the resource.

The truth of the matter is that U.S. consumers are drinking more water – specifically more bottled water.  And Nestlé is not the corporate villain they have been made out to be.

Jane Lazgin, a spokesperson for Nestlé Waters North America, Inc., provides a different perspective, and one that is more in alignment with California’s drought concerns than previously thought.

Nestlé does, in fact, have five springs in Southern California, and one of those springs is on Tribal lands belonging to the Morongo Band of Mission Indians.  Nestlé employs a team of geologists who manage and measure each of these springs for sustainability.

“Our water use needs to be reported to the governing body, and in the case of the Morongo spring, it is the Tribal officials – who, incidentally, are great conservationists and hold Nestlé  to a very high standard,” says Lazgin.

Overall, water consumption is up due to health consciousness, and Nestlé supplies drinking water as an alternative to sweetened, caloric drinks; good for health and good for the environment.  Lazgin says that Nestlé’s job is to be sure that they have a sustainable supply of water available to meet demands.

“By nature, the bottling of water is an efficient process,” she says.

Nestlé’s production plant has received a silver LEED rating (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design – developed by the U.S. Green Building Council to guide and provide sustainability standards).  To earn points for this environmental leadership rating, they need to limit water and energy loss; so, yes, they definitely share the concerns for California’s drought.

Nestlé is an obvious water user, but of the 108 facilities that bottle water in California, Nestlé owns only five of them.  And even this is only a “drop in the bucket” of water used by industrial manufacturers.

Says Lazgin, “This is the equivalent of watering two golf courses over the period of one year.”

To further share in environmental consciousness, Nestlé has been able to extract 60% of the plastic used in all of their water containers, and the bottles themselves are manufactured with 50% recycled materials.  Working in concert with the CarbonLITE recycling plant in Riverside, California, Nestlé strives to further reduce carbon emissions and environmental waste.

“It creates an eco-friendly domino effect of savings to the environment – less plastic, lower shipping costs, less energy being used,” says Lazgin about their commitment to the environment.

Perhaps it’s all about perspective, but Nestlé appears to be working with – not against – the efforts to assist with California’s drought initiatives.

Chinese Actress Lipo Li Entertains At Mandarin Taste

Mandarin Taste is located at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar. For reservations, or more information on special entertainment with actress, Lipo Li, call (909) 861-1819. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Mandarin Taste is located at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar. For reservations, or more information on special entertainment with actress, Lipo Li, call (909) 861-1819. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

By Claire Lewis

Diamond Bar – Mandarin Taste is well known in the city of Diamond Bar for its delicious, authentic Chinese cuisine, but beginning May 1, they will add a very special show to entertain guests on Friday evenings.

The beautiful and talented Chinese actress, Lipo Li, will be visiting Mandarin Taste for a limited engagement.  Li gets rave reviews for her performance of Face Changing, a magical dance.  Face Changing is part of a three-century-old theatrical tradition that originated in the Sichuan Province of China.  In the performance, each rapid face change represents a different character in Chinese opera, and each character assumes a unique body posture, stance and gait.

“I am delighted and honored to bring the traditional Chinese performing art of Face Changing to the Asian American, as well as mainstream communities,” says Li.  “Through my performances, I wish to further introduce and promote Chinese cultural heritage and further enrich the cultural diversity in Los Angeles.”

Li is a graduate of the Sichuan Province Art Institute, and has performed on many stages, television programs and movies.

Don’t miss the opportunity to see this amazing cultural performance, and take advantage of a wonderful dining experience.  With delicious food, great service and a family-friendly atmosphere, it’s no wonder customers return again and again.  Mandarin Taste has been in business for more than 31 years and is a favorite among locals.

From the popular Champagne Sunday Brunch to the new Friday entertainment, and everything in between – even orders to go! – Mandarin Taste invites you to visit for a taste of China.  Specializing in Honey Walnut Shrimp, Fried Dumplings and Sizzling Rice Soup, there is something for everyone.

For more information, call Mandarin Taste at (909) 861-1819, or just stop by their location at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar.

DBHS Orchestra Cup Grand Champions

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) The 140-member Diamond Bar High School Symphony Orchestra celebrates their 1st place Orchestra Cup award while sightseeing at New York City’s Rockefeller Center.

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
The 140-member Diamond Bar High School Symphony Orchestra celebrates their 1st place Orchestra Cup award while sightseeing at New York City’s Rockefeller Center.

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar High School Symphony Orchestra has been crowned the best in the nation.  The 140-member orchestra won the National School Orchestra Finals at New York’s Lincoln Center.  As Grand Champions, Diamond Bar High received the prestigious Orchestra Cup award.

Guest Conductor, Sey Ahn, and Instrumental Music Director, Steve Acciani, led the stellar performance of Brahms 4th Symphony.

The top eight schools in the country were invited to compete in the Finals, held Mar. 8, in the Alice Tully Hall.

“Just to be invited is fantastic,” Acciani said.

Two years ago DBHS came in second place.

“This year we picked a very difficult piece. Every person in the entire group has to be at a very high level just to even attempt it,” the orchestra director explained.

The elite musicians at Diamond Bar High were up for the challenge.

“We had the right combination of great wind players, great string players, and great percussion players,” said Acciani, a 2015 Grammy Music Educator Finalist.

“At the beginning we all knew the Brahms was a super difficult piece and we’ve played difficult pieces before,” said senior violinist Grace Chin. “Eventually it all paid off.”

Leading up to the festival the dedicated musicians put in weeks of after-school and weekend rehearsals.

“It was a really good moment for us because we had put in so much work,” shared junior cellist Eric Zhu.

“The kids were just phenomenal. To be able that pull it off at the level they did is remarkable,” Acciani said.

The DBHS performance earned a standing ovation from the other competitors and high praise from the judging panel.

“The judges commented that it was one of the finest orchestras they’ve ever heard,” Acciani said.

The 40-minute presentation was everything the group hoped it could possibly be.

“When we played in the big hall it sounded really amazing. Everything was on point and it felt like it was like worth the time and effort we put into it!” Zhu stated.

“It was one of those moments where everything connects. You’re able to take what the composer intended and communicate that to the audience. It was something pretty spectacular,” Acciani added.

Diamond Bar High School is the 2014 National Grammy Signature School.

 

Fun In The Sun At DB Birthday Party

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Sanchez

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Sanchez

By Sarah Sanchez

Diamond Bar – Local residents of all ages enjoyed a sunny day of food, games, rides, and fun at the 26th Annual Diamond Bar Birthday Party last week. The birthday party is the City’s largest annual event that is held in partnership with community organizations, school districts, law enforcement agencies, local businesses, and non-profit service agencies.

Birthday3-WEBThe event took place on Sat., Apr. 11 at Pantera Park. From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., cars were lined up around every street corner nearby. Local residents filled the park as they were dressed in red, white and blue attire to support the “Spirit of Diamond Bar.”

A Ferris wheel towered over the park next to whirling swings, a giant slide, a kid’s Merry-Go-Round, and a wide selection of other carnival rides that were run by local organizations. Nearby, a line of white tents showcased a variety of games that supported different non-profit service organizations. Some of the organizations included the Diamond Bar Breakfast Lions Club, the Diamond Bar Woman’s Club, Walnut Solar Car, and local Leo Clubs. Children of the community were able to play the games and claim their winnings at the Prize Booth.

Local musicians and groups performed on the main stage as birthday party entertainment. Around the stage were blue tents with local groups selling delicious food and snacks, including tacos, cotton candy, and kettle corn. Organizations running the food booths were Pop Warner, Boy Scout troops, Heart of Hope, and the local Rotary, just to name a few.

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Sanchez

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Sanchez

Beautiful antique cars were also displayed on the park grass.  The Diamond Bar Car Show is an annual event, and volunteer judges examined the cars and picked their favorite as the winner. Residents were also in on the fun as they were allowed to vote for their favorite in the Car Show’s People’s Choice Awards. In addition to the antique cars, local law enforcement displayed their police vehicles nearby with the doors open, so residents could take a peek inside.

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Sanchez

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Sanchez

Local law enforcement and the fire department were very supportive of the event.  Police Captain Jeff Scroggin was in attendance, along with a variety of other Police Deputies and Sheriff Volunteers. The Los Angeles County Fire Department also provided a Shakey Quakey Earthquake Preparedness Truck that moved to reenact an earthquake.

Birthday4-WEBA Business Showcase was available for residents to enjoy, hosted by the San Gabriel Valley Chamber of Commerce.  Local businesses came together under one tent, advertising their wares to the community. Residents were able to go around to each booth, win prizes, sample treats, and collect information.  Smaller tents were lined up nearby to display a variety of informational booths and organizations, such as Walnut Valley Unified School District, Marine Corps, Walnut Valley Water District, and the City of Diamond Bar Environmental Services.

At around 3 p.m., the City Council and City staff gathered together to announce the Outstanding Volunteer Awards. The Diamond Bar Council honored adults and youth with this award for good deeds and community service. Residents throughout the City were previously given the opportunity to nominate who they felt deserved this award, and the winners were announced at the birthday party.

Birthday1-WEBMayor Steve Tye, on behalf of the Council, honored the following awardees: Alex Lee, Jeff Koontz, Sameer Sharmal, and Richard and Rosette Clippinger. Former Diamond Bar Mayor, Aileen Asari, also honored Rosette Clippinger with flowers for her work as the President of the Diamond Bar Woman’s Club. The last awardee was Lori Ingoglia, who was unable to attend the event.

After the awards, the newly announced 2015 Miss Diamond Bar and the Princess Court were called to the stage to help cut the birthday cake. City of Diamond Bar staff and the City Council surrounded the stage as Mayor Tye led the Happy Birthday song.  Streamers filled the air as everyone cheered for another year in a great city.

After the event, local high school student volunteers and City staff gathered together to help clean up the party that took months to plan.

The birthday party has been held annually at Pantera Park for 26 years. If you missed this year’s party, make sure you don’t miss out on the fun next April!

Courts Deny Walnut’s Filing Against Mt. SAC

Staff Reports

Walnut – On April 1, the Los Angeles County Superior Court issued a denial of the City of Walnut’s application for a temporary restraining order and preliminary injunction against Mt. San Antonio Community College, and their construction of a forthcoming parking structure.

According to Jill Dolan, MPA, Director of Public Affairs for Mt. SAC, not only was the temporary restraining order denied, but the Court also ruled that the City has not shown that it is likely to prevail on the merits concerning the zoning issues, and, as such, did not set a hearing for a preliminary injunction on the matter.

“The Court ruled that ‘the City acknowledges that its involvement with the project is limited to review of improvements to the sidewalks, curb cuts, and other street improvements,’” said Dolan.

As recently as the Walnut City Council meeting on Mar. 25, some residents of the Timberline neighborhood urged City officials to move toward litigation against Mt. SAC, citing that the imminent parking structure would “increase traffic congestion, noise pollution, air pollution and ruin the backyard views of many of the nearby houses.”  These are the same issues that have come to the forefront of Council meetings for some time.

Representatives from Mt. SAC have said that during the planning stages of this project, they have worked with the City of Walnut.  Mt. SAC met with the City planning and engineering staffs, and in 2007 presented a plan for the structure to the college’s Board of Trustees.  The college also submitted environmental impact reports to the City, as required by the California Environmental Quality Act as early as 2002 – with updates in 2005, 2008 and 2012.  The California Division of the State Architect’s office made the final decision to approve the parking structure.

Despite working with City, Walnut’s City Attorney, Michael Montgomery, made it very clear to residents attending the Mar. 11 Council meeting, that the City would likely start litigation against Mt. SAC to halt the parking structure to appease the Timberline residents.  Montgomery said the college’s officials exhibited “absolutely arrogance” by refusing to read two separate letters about amending the location of the structure,

In a recent statement, Dr. William Scroggins, President and CEO of Mt. SAC, said, “The court ruling validates that Mt. San Antonio College’s parking structure project has been appropriately designed.  The structure is a necessity for the students and the broader community we serve.”

And with that, 1650 additional parking spaces – 13 years in the making – will ultimately benefit the students who spend copious amounts of time driving around the campus trying to find a spot to park.

The parking structure is expected to be completed by Jan. 2017.

PUSD Stabbing

Staff Reports

Pomona – On Tues., Mar. 24, at approximately 12:25 p.m., Pomona Police Officers responded to the Pomona Unified School District Office regarding a stabbing.

The victim, Amy Blevins, 39, of Pomona, was walking to her vehicle when she met up with the suspect, and exchanged pleasantries.  According to the Pomona Police Department, the suspect then stabbed Blevins and fled the scene.  Offers were unable to locate him at that time.

Blevins was transported to a local hospital for the treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

Subsequently, the suspect – Jonathan Serrano, 22, of Pomona, was located and arrested.  At his arraignment on Thurs. Apr. 2, Serrano pled guilty for assault with a deadly weapon.  He was sentenced to two years in State prison.

Visit Basically BOOKS in Diamond Bar

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Are you looking for a great volunteer experience in Diamond Bar?  Basically BOOKS, the Friends of the Diamond Bar Library non-profit bookstores, are friendly places serving the community as a resource for school, work and pleasure reading at exceptionally low prices.

There are many special sales throughout the month, so stop by one or both of their beautiful locations. Right now, they are featuring some desirable Star Trek memorabilia in stock.  If you are a Star Trek fan, you will enjoy seeing what they have.

Bookstore Manager, Peggy Murphy, is actively looking for new volunteers to staff both locations (23447 Golden Springs Road, near the intersection of Golden Springs and Diamond Bar Blvd.; and the bookstore at the Diamond Bar Library, 21800 Copley Drive, across from the AQMD Building).

All proceeds from both Basically BOOKS stores directly benefit the Diamond Bar Library.  For more information, please contact Peggy Murphy at (909) 938-0382, or email peggymurphy08@gmail.com.

 

Date 2015 Time Activity Location Remarks
Sat., Apr. 18 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Buck-A-Bag Book Sale Basically BOOKS

(23447 Golden Springs Dr.)

 Great books at rock-bottom prices!
Sun., Apr. 26 4 p.m. 22nd Annual Wine Soirée Diamond Bar Center

(1600 Grand Ave.)

 SAVE THE DATE FOR THE SOCIAL EVENT OF THE SEASON.
Tues., Apr. 21 7 p.m. Discussion Group Basically BOOKS The Whistling Season by Ivan Doig

 
Sat., May 19 9 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Buck-A-Bag Book
Sale		 Basically BOOKS Great books at rock-bottom prices!
Tues., May 26 7 p.m. Book Discussion Group Basically BOOKS The Virtues of Oxygen by Susan Schoenberger.
October 2015 October is Read Together Diamond Bar 2015 month!
Sat., Oct. 24 2 p.m. An Afternoon with Author Lisa See Diamond Bar Library

Windmill Room

 Best-selling author Lisa See visits Diamond Bar as part of Read Together Diamond Bar 2015

 

 

PUSD Launches High-Tech Science Lab

$100,000 Todd Family donation also funds scholarships and atrium

(Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes) La Verne Science and Technology students learn to conduct science experiments from students from Palomares Academy of Health Sciences in the school’s new science lab.

(Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)
La Verne Science and Technology students learn to conduct science experiments from students from Palomares Academy of Health Sciences in the school’s new science lab.

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – Two Pomona Unified schools have funded a memorial scholarship and constructed high-tech science labs for elementary and high school students – including space for a robotics program – thanks to a $100,000 grant aimed at strengthening science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) programs.

La Verne Science and Technology Charter School and Palomares Academy of Health Sciences each received a $50,000 endowment from the Todd Family Foundation to establish science and technology facilities and programs. The donations were made in memory of Dr. Shane Todd, a scientist and Pomona Unified alumnus, who died in 2012.

“These new science facilities are generating sparks of creativity in young minds,” Pomona Unified School District Board of Education President, Andrew Wong, said. “Thanks to the Todd family’s generosity, we are reinforcing our commitment to educate students in cutting-edge and in-demand fields.”

La Verne Science and Technology, a charter school focused on STEM programs, used the funding to build a modern science lab, which is open after school for its robotics programs. The school will continue to expand the use of this new science lab. Plans are in the works to establish a computer coding program.

The facility, dedicated as the “Dr. Shane Todd Science Lab,” is a teacher- and student-friendly space that features digital microscopes, computers for research, a teacher demonstration area, student work stations that foster collaboration and the latest in interactive science notebooks.

“These leading-edge learning tools are inspiring our students to explore science in ways that weren’t possible before,” La Verne Science and Technology Principal Dolores Lobaina said.  “Through a plethora of new, hands-on activities, our students are learning how to tackle the hard questions.”

Palomares Academy of Health Sciences divided its share of the donation among several science-based projects, including a robotics program in its new Dr. Shane Todd Science Center and an outdoor atrium that encourages students to explore earth sciences.

In honor of Todd – described as a Renaissance Man – Palomares also established a scholarship program in which students submitted designs for a Renaissance Man mural. A reveal of the mural and the first, second and third place winners of the scholarship will be named in May.

“The spirit and inspiration that Dr. Todd has brought to the Palomares Academy is part of his legacy,” Palomares Principal, Camille Ramos-Beal, said. “We are grateful to the Todd family for recognizing Palomares Academy as a beneficiary.”

Superintendent Richard Martinez reinforced the critical role STEM courses serve to equip students for the quickly evolving job market.

“Preparing our students for careers in STEM is a top priority for our District,” Martinez said. “This donation opens up a world of possibilities for discovery and innovation and is preparing our students to become the next generation of leaders.”

 

 

1981 Pomona Cold Case Murder Arrest

Staff Reports

Pomona – On July 2, 1981, a 6-year old male juvenile left his house on his bike to go to a fireworks stand in the city of Anaheim. The child was last seen on his bike near the fireworks stand, which was located near Imperial and Santa Ana Canyon Road, at approximately 5:30 p.m.  At approximately 7:20 p.m., the boy’s parents found his bike abandoned in an alley near the fireworks stand.
On July 3, 1981, two construction workers found the child’s lifeless body near 34 Edgebrook Dr. in the city of Pomona. The Los Angeles County Coroner’s Office determined the child died of asphyxia as a consequence of strangulation. DNA evidence was confirmed and linked to Idaho resident, Kenneth Rasmuson.
On Mar. 27, Pomona Police Department Cold Case Homicide Detectives traveled to Sandpoint Idaho to assist in the arrest Kenneth Rasmuson for the 1981 murder. Members of the Sandpoint Point Police Department, FBI, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Crime Lab, Bonner County District Attorney’s Office and the Anaheim Police Department also assisted with the investigation and subsequent arrest of Kenneth Rasmuson.
Rasmuson is currently in custody at the Bonner County Jail in Sandpoint, and will be extradited back to Pomona where he will face murder charges for the boy’s murder.
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 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

Farm Fresh Eggs At Voortman’s Ranch

(Photo Courtesy: Voortman’s Egg Ranch) The Voortman Family circa 1956. Voortman’s Egg Ranch is located at 13960 Grove Avenue in Ontario. You can reach them at (909) 465-1319. They are open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

(Photo Courtesy: Voortman’s Egg Ranch)
The Voortman Family circa 1956. Voortman’s Egg Ranch is located at 13960 Grove Avenue in Ontario. You can reach them at (909) 465-1319. They are open Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

By K.P. Sander

Ontario – Voortman’s Egg Ranch has been in the business of providing farm fresh eggs to friends and visitors to the local area for over 60 years. Originally from Bellflower, the Voortman family – who has always been in the egg ranching business – moved their operation to Ontario in 1951.

Voortman’s has a small-town farm ambiance, with the latest in technology.  Their happy chickens are enjoying their newly remodeled home; and their egg-processing machine can handle about 36,000 eggs per hour at its peak. If the average bird lays one egg about every 26 hours, that equals a lot of chickens at the Voortman ranch!

Did you know that you can tell how fresh an egg is by how high the yolk stands up in the frying pan after you crack it?  Voortman’s will have your over-easies standing tall.  Their fresh eggs are the highest in quality, with dark, nutrient-dense yolks.  You will immediately notice a difference in your cooking and baking.

Have you ever wondered how long the eggs in the grocery stores have actually been sitting around?  Despite the use-by date, there is really no way to know how long ago they were produced.  With Voortman’s, the eggs are selected daily, on site, and readied for you in their store.

Third-generation egg rancher, Eddie Voortman, says, “We are a local, family-owned business that provides fresh, quality products to the public.”

Customers of Voortman’s rave about their all natural, cage free eggs, touting the freshness, and great pricing.  One customer said, “They make the fluffiest scrambled eggs!”

The eggs come in all sizes and colors, depending on your needs.  Whatever you choose, you will not be disappointed.

Voortman’s is centrally located just minutes from Chino at 13960 Grove Avenue in Ontario (just north of Edison).  You can reach Voortman’s at (909) 465-1319; and Like them on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Voortmans-Egg-Ranch.

Stop by any time Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Mt. SAC RN Program Ranks 10th Statewide

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College’s Nursing Program was recently ranked 10th among all California community college nursing programs in a survey of the best nursing schools in the Western United States by NurseJournal.org.
With an overall score of 85.63, Mt. SAC also ranked 13th among all western U. S. community college programs. The rankings were based on program quality, affordability, flexible class schedules, student satisfaction, and value.
A total of 442 universities, two-year colleges, and vocational nursing programs were ranked in the survey.
Mt. SAC’s Nursing Program serves 240 students, and its students achieved a 91% pass rate on the state board nursing exam in 2014. Associate degree and certificate programs are offered.
NurseJournal.org is a social community for nurses and healthcare professionals worldwide, which provides comprehensive educational resources.

Walnut Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Wed., Apr. 8 marked the Walnut City Council’s first meeting of the month; a regular session with a short agenda of items, including the recognition of OneLegacy (during Donor Awareness Month) and their life-saving work.

Mayor Pro Tem, Eric Ching, was absent from the meeting due to vacation.

Ambassador Daniel Luevanos accepted the award from the City on behalf of the OneLegacy organization, which aims to increase organ, tissue, marrow and blood donors throughout the nation.  Mayor Nancy Tragarz handed out the award to Luevanos, stating that OneLegacy was an important organization that has the potential to save hundreds of thousands of lives.

“More than 123,000 individuals nationwide, and more 21,000 in California, are currently on the national organ transplant waiting list,” Tragarz said. “Every 90 minutes, one person dies while waiting due the shortage of donated organs … whereas millions of lives are saved and healed by donors of organs, tissue, marrow and blood.  The spirit of giving and decision to donate are not restricted by age or medical conditions.”

The rest of the City Council members thanked Luevanos and also wished OneLegacy continued luck with the number of donors it gathers each year.

Following the presentation, the Council members approved the March 25 meeting minutes and approved the items on the consent calendar, including a resolution for the claims and demands in the amount of $469,720.68; the approval of plans and authorization to receive bids for Areas 1 and 2 for a resurfacing project; and a request to reject all bids currently received for a new city-wide telephone system, and authorization for staff to again proceed with formal bids for said system.

After Council announcements, the Walnut City Council officially adjourned with plans to meet on April 22, at 7 p.m., in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Chino To Welcome Vietnam Memorial Wall

vwallStaff Reports

Chino – The Chino American Legion, Chino VFW, and the City of Chino are working together as sponsors to bring the Vietnam Memorial Wall to the City next summer.

According to the Chino American Legion, the Vietnam Memorial Wall will be making a special visit in Chino from June 30 through July 5, 2016.  The City is expecting more than a half million visitors during that week.

There is widespread and growing support from many politicians, veteran organizations and non-profit groups that are asking to help with this effort. Other cities, including La Verne and San Dimas, have also agreed to join this growing group.  The campaign is called, “Bringing Our Brothers Home.”

The Chino American Legion is a 501(c)3 organization, and all donors will receive a tax deduction and be listed on their website. Donors will receive a letter from the Committee, and a Vietnam War Memorial gift.

Businesses and individuals who donate more than $100 will be listed on all promotional materials and Internet platforms. Those who donate more than $250 will be listed on all promotional materials, Internet platforms, and will receive a small ad in their printed materials. Businesses who donate $1,000 or more will be listed on promotional materials, and they will be included on a banner that is taken to all events leading up to and including the week of the event.

On June 30, 2016, the Wall will be leaving Antelope Valley and traveling the 95 miles to Chino.  Thousands of veterans on motorcycles nationwide, and hundreds of local veteran classic car owners will be escorting the Wall to Chino.  The procession will end at Ayala Park in Chino.

The Vietnam Memorial Wall is a tribute to our Vietnam War veterans, and is a replica of the Wall in Washington, D.C.  When the Wall visits Chino, it will be a time to mourn, remember, celebrate and forgive.   There are 54 names on the Wall from Chino and surrounding cities.

Veterans are needed as volunteers to guard the Vietnam Memorial Wall from June 30 to July 5, 2016.  Meetings are held at the Chino Community Center every other Tuesday at 5 p.m.

To start the process, we need to raise initial funding for printing, advertising, promotion and the many, many expenses that will be incurred to make this major event an unprecedented success.
We need your help!  If you would like to volunteer, please contact Chairperson, Ed Denzin, at (909) 973-3350.  For information regarding promotions or fundraising, contact Dr. Gary Lawson at (800) 771-3325.