Category Archives: News By City

Loma Linda Family Arrested For Embezzlement

Staff Reports

Riverside – Four former and current officials of an independent labor union in Colton were arrested on Wed., Jan 28, on federal charges related to a scheme to embezzle funds from the union’s health plan.

The four defendants, who were named in a 40-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Jan. 21, are charged with conspiring to embezzle from the health plan for the United Industrial and Service Workers of America Local 101 (UISWA), which serves members in the Inland Empire.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, the defendants allegedly misappropriated a total of approximately $900,000 in union funds over the course of eight years.  Those arrested are John S. Romero, 68, the former president of USIWA; Evelyn Romero, 66, John S. Romero’s wife, who succeeded her husband as president of USIWA and served in that position until June 2014; John J. Romero, 50, who is the son of John S. and Evelyn Romero and who is the former secretary/treasurer of USIWA; and Danae Romero, 37, who is the daughter of John S. and Evelyn Romero and who served as an officer in the union.  All are residents of Loma Linda.

The indictment charges the defendants with conspiring to embezzle assets from the UISWA Health Plan, which was a program intended to provide healthcare benefits to union members.

The indictment also includes charges of knowingly filing false annual reports with the U.S. Department of Labor that failed to disclose more than $100,000 in UISWA revenues and disbursements, willfully misusing the assets from both the UISWA and UISWA Health Plan, and knowingly and willfully permitting another Romero family member – who had previously been convicted of a felony narcotics violation – to serve as an officer and employee of the UISWA.

The indictment alleges that some of the Health Plan’s bank accounts were held in the name of a construction company associated with the Health Plan’s third party administrator, through which the Romero family received payments without the knowledge of consent of the Health Plan’s second trustee. It is further alleged that the Romero family controlled the Health Plan’s reserve fund accounts and used those assets for their personal benefit.

The defendants’ family allegedly used union funds to pay personal and union-related legal fees and judgments levied against them, systematically making payments of Health Plan assets to a separate business entity they operated under false pretenses, fund a payroll account that had been established using the name and employer identification number of a previous labor union they had been in control of that had since terminated operations, pay off a car loan for a vehicle belonging to another Romero family member, and recirculating assets from the Health Plan’s reserve fund to its operating account to cover the insurance expenses for their own healthcare benefits that were billed to the union.

If these individuals are convicted of the charges in the indictment, all four defendants would face decades in federal prison.

South Pointe Students Cycle As They Learn

 

South Pointe Middle School special education students have begun reading and riding using stationary pedals to improve reading skills. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

South Pointe Middle School special education students have begun reading and riding using stationary pedals to improve reading skills. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – South Pointe Middle School special education teacher, Nakia Brener, was looking for a way to help her 6th through 8th Grade students improve their reading skills.  She noticed that they didn’t seem engaged during the 30 minutes of Accelerated Reading each morning.

“They would often pretend to read or do other things,” Brener noted.

A light went off after reading an article shared by her principal in October about integrating kinesthetic learning in the classroom.  A school back east was helping students increase reading scores with exercise bikes used while reading.  This tactile-learning style takes place by students carrying out a physical activity.

Brener was inspired when physical education teachers at her school began having students “read and ride” on workout bikes.  As a former P.E. teacher, she knew movement would help her kids.

“I’m always thinking of ways to keep them alert, awake, and thinking. So I thought I’d try it!” said Brener.

Some schools had actually converted classrooms with bicycle chairs – she knew that would be too expensive.  Brener found a simpler solution – stationary pedals that tuck under the desks. She needed 20 – one for each student.  She wrote grants to Donors Choose and the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation that funded the $800 project.

Many of Brener’s students take an adaptive P.E. class and aren’t able to use a standard bike.  These new tools would provide the same learning benefits and a chance for some additional physical activity.

On Jan.7, the kids opened up the boxes of equipment.

“You’d think it was Christmas here – they loved it!” Brener exclaimed.

For the past two weeks, students have been eager to peddle as they learn. Brener reports “they’ve been peddling away and reading!”  Each student peddles at a different pace – some slow and deliberate, others steady, fast, or even backwards.

“I like it because it keeps my mind going,” said 7th Grader, Tyler Lewis.  “And I feel like I’m getting fit!”

Each day, the specialized academic instruction class begins with 15 minutes of Accelerated Reading (AR) reading followed by 15 minutes of the computerized Language Live component for phonics and reading foundations.

“We haven’t had them long enough to see how they improve reading, but I will say the kids are much more likely to be reading. And they know they can only use the foot pedals if they’re reading,” Brener said.

When Brener wanted to gage how much her students were reading she asked how many pages they completed after the timed reading.  They all reported over 25 pages.

“I think that’s the most you’ve read in 15 minutes, ever!” she exclaimed.

“South Pointe is really a good school for integrating movement and learning!” Brener added.

“It is just another amazing example of doing whatever it takes to ensure the success of our students!” said Principal Susan Arzola.

Beware Of IRS Phone Scam

By Claire Lewis

Chino – On Jan. 21, a local Chino resident (who wishes to remain anonymous for obvious reasons) was the victim of an attempted scam.  She received a voicemail message – supposedly from the IRS – stating that she owed $3,981 and must pay this outstanding debt immediately.  The victim was threatened with arrest and seizure of all of her property, and becoming alarmed, she called them back at the number provided:  (866) 931-3773 (we called and received a busy signal).

The man who answered the phone (as “Internal Revenue Service”) reiterated the threats, and stated he needed to be kept on the phone while the victim withdrew money from her bank account and deposited it into the “IRS account” by providing verbal information.  Luckily, she did not comply, and the man hung up on her.

Shortly after the call ended, the victim received another call from a woman identifying herself as from the Chino Police Department.  She was told that the Police Department had dispatched an officer to come and arrest her.

The victim immediately contacted the Chino Police Department, and was reassured that this was, in fact, a scam.  They were quick to confirm that the victim did not provide any personal information.

The Chino Police Department would like to remind you that these are not the practices of the IRS or the Police Department.  Beware of such callers; they are very aggressive and use scare-tactics to steal money from unwary victims.  Never provide personal information, including social security numbers, bank account numbers, passwords, addresses or other critical data that could allow criminals into your life – often with serious consequences.

Unfortunately, these scammers get lucky sometimes.  If you have been the victim of a phone scam, report the information to your local Police Department.

ERHS Students Donate Blood

By Emily Aguilar

The American Red Cross vehicle/blood lab on the ERHS Campus (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

The American Red Cross vehicle/blood lab on the ERHS Campus (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

Eastvale – Many students are beginning to realize the importance of giving back to their community: they volunteer, they host fundraisers, and they try to promote philanthropy.

When the American Red Cross offered to let ERHS students donate blood on Jan. 23, over a hundred students – mostly upperclassmen – rolled up their sleeves to donate their blood in the school cafeteria.

Donating blood is necessary for patients who have been in traumatic accidents or have health related issues, but the drawing of blood isn’t as simple as it seems. Eligible donors have to be over 100 pounds, cannot have health-related issues such as diabetes, must be at least 16, and must face the risk of feeling immense fatigue afterwards. Even after signing away their consent, nurses must ask the donors a series of questions to ensure that they are physically prepared to undergo the rigorous process.

In spite of these barriers, students still stand by the belief that their half hour of discomfort is worth saving someone’s life.

ERHS student and blood drive volunteer, Jackie Camuy (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

ERHS student and blood drive volunteer, Jackie Camuy (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

Included in the ERHS donors, was Jackie Camuy, an avid volunteer who has donated blood numerous times. Despite the anxiousness that she felt while having a nurse draw her blood, she has never been hesitant to take advantage of the opportunity to make a difference in someone else’s life.

“I feel like it is my responsibility to contribute to society in any way possible. I specifically chose to donate blood because I want to give somebody a better chance to live.” Camuy stated.

For those interested in donating blood or volunteering in the medical field, please visit http://www.redcross.org.

How Distracted Is Your Driving?

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – I was recently listening to a favorite radio program, and the DJ made mention of a man who was pulled over by police and cited for eating a hamburger while driving.

At first I thought, really?  What’s next? But as I was driving down the freeway attempting to put hot sauce on my taco*, I began to think, perhaps eating while driving is as much of a distraction – if not more – as texting.

Years ago, a friend of mine was on the road for work and had grabbed some drive-thru lunch on her way to an appointment.  As she attempted to merge her little pickup from the onramp to the travel lane – simultaneously picking up freeway speed and taking that first bite of a juicy burger – her tires caught in the grooves of the shoulder.  Not willing to sacrifice the burger, she one-handedly over corrected her steering and flipped her truck.  The burger didn’t make it.  Without the grace of God, she wouldn’t have made it either.  After a couple of weeks in the hospital, she thought twice before ever eating while driving again.

Distracted driving includes a variety of activities, the very popular texting, phones (laptops!), eating, talking to passengers, grooming (if I had a nickel for every time I saw someone applying mascara at a traffic signal…), reading, using navigation, watching videos – you name it; if it takes your visual, manual or cognitive attention away from your driving, it’s a distraction.  And by the way, texting requires all three skills…at once.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTS) revealed from a survey that only one out of five young drivers thinks that texting makes no difference in their driving performance.  The average text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds.  Combine that with traveling 55 miles per hour; that’s enough time to cover the length of a football field – blindfolded.  A frightening visual (pun intended) that I would venture to say might make a difference.

A National Occupant Protection Use Survey showed that at any given daylight hour across the nation, more than 660,000 drivers are manipulating electronic devices – the lion’s share by texting.  NHTS says that in 2012, 3,328 people were killed and 421,000 were injured in distraction-affected crashes – depending on how you look at it, more than 60% of those distracted while driving, crashed.

71% of teens surveyed admit to composing and sending a text while driving.  Coincidentally, nearly 70% of California drivers surveyed in 2013 said they had been hit or nearly hit by a driver who was talking or texting on a phone.

These are all statistics that just scream, STOP!  Do you really want to drive in an environment where you are surrounded by – maybe you are one of them – individuals creating a crash risk 23 times greater than driving while not distracted?  I’m visualizing a group of friends in a car:   they just hit the drive-thru on their way to a party, and they are having a great time texting back and forth with other friends heading to the same party…they are all engaged on everything, except the road.  How often do you think this happens?  Exactly.

Whatever takes your eyes from the road – even for a second – has the ability to alter your life forever.  The outcome is rarely a good one.  Don’t learn from experience, take statistics to heart.  That call, text, burger or ? can wait until you are stationary and safe.

We lived quite comfortably for thousands of years without the immediate gratification of iPhone/Android technology.  There is nothing worth the risk of a precious life – yours, or someone else you may affect, by being impaired in some way.

A vehicle can be a symbol of success or poverty, a well-loved member of the family (good, old Bessie), or simply the thing that gets you from A to B.  I can also be a lethal weapon when operated outside of the law.

Lt. Scott Forbes from the Eastvale Police Department gives us this sage advice, “In the short time it takes to read or respond to a text, your vehicle can conceivably travel hundreds of feet.  Please don’t gamble with your safety or the safety of other motorists.  The risk is just too great.”

Be safe. Don’t drive distracted.  Ever.

Visit www.distracted.gov to learn more.  Educate yourself, your teens, your friends, all those you care about.

 

*An embellishment for entertainment purposes.  No tacos were harmed in the writing of this article.  Oh, c’mon!  How many times have your knees done the steering for you?

Meet New DB Councilman Lin

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar’s new council member, Jimmy Lin. (Photo By Raymond Mendoza)

Diamond Bar’s new council member, Jimmy Lin. (Photo By Raymond Mendoza)

Diamond Bar – Following the departure of former councilwoman Ling Ling Chang to the California State Assembly during the November election, the Diamond Bar City Council launched a month-long search to find a suitable replacement in her stead.

After reviewing more than a dozen candidates, the Council appointed Jimmy Lin, a 12-year resident of Diamond Bar and longtime public servant.

Lin – who holds a Master of Science degree in Civil Engineering from Kansas State University – spent 32 years living in Kansas where he worked for the engineering firm, Bucher, Willis and Ratliff, and eventually became the chairman of the firm.

In 2012, Lin, and his wife, Sophia, decided to retire and move to Diamond Bar.  They have an adult son who is currently practicing medicine in the Midwest.  Lin – not exactly in retirement mode – is now the President, CEO and Chairman for the KOA Corporation – an engineering firm in Monterey Park.

Lin said beyond his professional qualifications, he is an “experienced public servant” who has not only served in Diamond Bar, but also in Leadwood, Kansas.

“I am happy that there is a very minimal learning curve for me to understand the needs of Diamond Bar and her citizens and residents,” Lin said. “I am excited about the opportunity and I am certain that I can do a good job.”

Lin said he believes his background in civil engineering will be a boon to the City, since the growing population of Diamond Bar means higher traffic volumes – a topic that he is well-versed in considering his lifelong profession.

“One of the bigger challenges facing Diamond Bar, is, of course, the traffic issues,” Lin said. “Physically, we are located in the center of the L.A. Metropolitan area and traffic from all directions converges and disperses here on our freeways. When the freeway gets congested, traffic starts to funnel through local streets such as Diamond Bar Boulevard, Grand Avenue, Golden Spring and other minor arterial streets.”

Lin said traffic problems will be a major concern of his during his time as a Council member, and that he looks forward to making a cost effective solution that will help commuters and residents.  Lin also said he’s looking forward to working with the local Sheriff’s Department to curb small incidents involving petty theft in order to maintain Diamond Bar’s image as one of the safest cities in America.

Beyond that, Lin said being appointed to the City Council will be a major opportunity and responsibility, and that he is willing to listen to any resident on any matter that would improve Diamond Bar during his tenure on the Council.

“As a public figure, my number one responsibility is to learn and understand every public issue and try to build a consensus to solve the problem,” Lin said. “I certainly welcome comments and recommendations from every citizen and resident of Diamond Bar. My door is always open.”

“True Comfort”

By Pastor Dennis Morales

Pastor Dennis Morales Calvary Chapel CrossBridge

Pastor Dennis Morales

“But the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things,” (John 14:26).

“Comforter” describes the Holy Spirit of God, which means in the original New Testament language “to come to the side of another.” There is something cool about the word “comfort.”  We get the word comfort from two Latin words meaning “con” (in company with) and “fortis” (to strengthen).

We just signed my son, Noah, up for his first organized baseball team.  Along with that comes my responsibility to provide as much encouragement as possible for Noah in his development as a player.  We were practicing batting the other day and he got a little discouraged and just sat down.  I was moved and came along side of him and gave him a few words of encouragement.  He then sprang to his feet, and to both of our joy, he a hit the ball squarely all the way to the outfield grass.  It would have done him no good for me to take the bat out of his hand and hit the ball for him.

We usually think of “comfort” as soothing someone, consoling someone; and to some extent this is true.  But true comfort strengthens us to face life bravely and keep on going. It does not rob us of responsibility or make it easy for us to give up.

God comes along side of us not to remove the difficulty or hardship, but to strengthen us along the way (Isaiah 41:10, Philippians 4:13).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., at Clara Barton Elementary (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale). Visit their website athttp://www.CalvaryEastvale.org.

Reset the Course

By Pastor Dennis Morales

 

Pastor Dennis Morales Calvary Chapel CrossBridge

Pastor Dennis Morales

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” (Isaiah 43:18-19a NIV).

New phone luster, new clothes, new car smell, new resolutions.  These all seem to fade pretty quickly.

Given the New Year, it is still a great time to reset the course to change. God sets the first course in change, which is to “forget the former things.”  God doesn’t concentrate on your problems or failures.  He says, I am going to do something “new.”

Isaiah was speaking to God’s people who were in captivity.  They had failed miserably, and it seemed they had no way out.  As long as they dwelled on the past, God could not do something new.

The devil would always have you look back, too.  Because when we dwell upon our failures, often fear, shame, and isolation are not too far away.  And that’s the devil’s intention, to get you isolated from God.  Because when we come to God, we find forgiveness and peace.

The Bible says, “Gods mercies are new every morning,” (Lamentations 3:23).  The Apostle Paul practiced, “… forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,” (Philippians 3:13).  Paul’s life had a strong focus on God that helped him prioritize everything else.

God always fixes our eyes on the things that are ahead because He wants to do something new.  He wants you to have not just a better physique or a better relationship; God wants to give you something deeper.  He wants to free you from sin and set you on the course of peace (Philippians 4:7).

Happy New Year!

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., at Clara Barton Elementary (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale). Visit their website athttp://www.CalvaryEastvale.org.

Navigating The ‘Main Street Squeeze’

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: RCTC.org

Photo Courtesy: RCTC.org

Corona – If you are one of the local commuters who travel into the perfect storm of the 15 and 91 Freeways merging with the influx of vehicles entering from Main Street on your way to work, there might be some relief in your near future.

The Corona Police Department is offering five tips to help you navigate the traffic, and perhaps make for a more enjoyable drive.

  1. Allow extra travel time. Do yourself a favor and leave for work or school a little earlier. That will help you relax and be more patient as your drive through this area.
    2. Make good driving decisions. When the road narrows, move over and get behind the car in front of you. Please don’t try to go around that car and then get stuck at the K-rail (cement barrier) up ahead. There are “No U-Turn” signs at Third St. and on Grand Blvd, so don’t try and make a U-turn. Please follow all rules of the road and be patient during this time.
    3. Pay attention. Travel conditions will be changing during the next two years. K-rails will be shifting. There may be some additional lane closures at night. Follow the signs, put down your cell phones, and please be respectful with other motorists and contractors.
    4. Know alternate routes. The eastbound on-ramp of Main Street will be closed, so use Lincoln Ave., Magnolia Ave., McKinley St. or Hidden Valley Pkwy. instead.
    5. Watch for workers and equipment. Although crews will be primarily working behind K-rails, there are exceptions. Please keep an eye out for crew members and their vehicles. Safety is paramount and we want everyone to make it home safely.

The Corona Police Department would like to reiterate that this is a temporary inconvenience that will ultimately benefit all commuters in the long run traveling through this area. Please remember that we’re all in this together.

Community Events

Staff Reports

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Pomona Inner City Homeless Ministry Dinner

When:  The 4th Saturday monthly:  Jan. 24, Feb., 28, Mar. 28

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.

Fit Food Fundamentals

When:  Beginning weekly, Thursdays now through Feb. 12.  The last session will occur on Fri., Feb. 20, and the teens will serve a healthy meal to seniors during a dinner and a movie, 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Where:  Walnut Senior Center, 21215 La Puente Road, Walnut

Details:  Teens, ages 12 to 16, will learn basic knowledge of nutrition, safety, and food preparation skills to incorporate a healthy diet into their everyday routine.  Teens can gain insight on how to lead a healthy lifestyle by means of fitness and proper nutrition, which can be a foundation for lifelong well-being.  $35 for five weeks (includes all materials).

Contact:  (909) 598-6200.

Run for Cody 5K

When:  Sat., Jan. 31

Where: Frank G. Bonelli Park, 120 Via Verde, San Dimas, CA 91773

Details:  Cops 4 Causes invites all walkers and runners to join them to help Cody Misch and his fight against kidney failure. Register to participate online at www.cops4causes.org. Registrations start at $25 per person.  All ages are welcome to attend.  The 5K Walk/Run will be a timed event in association with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Athletic Association (LASAA).

Baldwin Park Pro Wrestling

When:  Sat., Jan. 31, at 6 p.m. (doors open at 5 p.m.)

Where:  Ester Snyder Community Center, 4100 Baldwin Park Blvd., Gymnasium

Details:  A Wrestling Extravaganza in conjunction with the Empire Wrestling Federation, the show will feature six matches, “Lucha Libre” pro-style wrestling, and much more for the entire family.

Contact:  (626) 813-5245, ext. 317, or visit http://www.baldwinpark.com

Citizens’ Police Academy

When:  Wednesdays, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Feb. 4 to March 25

Where:  Pomona Police Department, 490 W. Mission Blvd; Pomona City Hall, 505 S. Garey Avenue.

Details:  The Pomona Police Department is offering an eight week program that provides citizens with the opportunity to learn about the inner workings of the Police Department.  Space is limited to 40 approved applicants.  Beginning Jan. 5, applications can be obtained at the front desk of the Pomona Police Department or at the Crime Prevention Office at City Hall.

Contact:  Crime Prevention, (909) 620-2318.

Roaring 20s Casino Night

When: Fri., Feb. 6, 6:30 to 11 p.m.

Where:  Diamond Bar Golf Course, 22751 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar

Details:  The Diamond Bar Woman’s Club presents a night of fun, food and gaming.  Just $50 per person, which included dinner, $50 in chips, a drink ticket and a commemorative photo.  All proceeds benefit the Diamond Bar Woman’s Club Charities.

Contact:  For tickets and information, call Debbie Avila-Mott at (909) 860-1063.

Bosco Tech Math Competition

When:  Sat., Feb. 7; 7:45 a.m.

Where:  Don Bosco Technical Institute, 1151 San Gabriel Boulevard, Rosemead

Details:  Mathematics competition for 5th through 8th Grade students.  The 43rd annual event will offer awards for the highest scoring individuals and teams.  Students from all San Gabriel Valley public and private schools are invited to participate.  $8/individual; $5/teams per person.  Food, fun, awards ceremony.

Contact:  Ms. Valeria De Luna at MathCompetition@boscotech.edu. For further information about Bosco Tech, call (626) 940-2000 or visit www.boscotech.edu.

4th Annual Yurak Memorial 5K Run

When:  Sat., Feb. 14

Where:  Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 East Arrow Highway, Irwindale

Details:  Don Bosco Technical Institute will host the Memorial 5K Run and kids-only 1K Fun Run.  All proceeds will benefit Bosco Tech’s Yurak Athletic Center.  Race registration is $35; online registration is available at www.boscotech.edu/events.

Contact:  Athletic Director, Chris Shockley, (626) 940-2101, or via email at lshockley@boscotech.edu

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

Baldwin Park Proposes Work Center

Staff Reports

Baldwin Park – If all goes according to plan, local residents may be on their way toward a few job leads by the end of summer. The possibility comes with great relief to Nick Hernandez, 27, who has recently become unemployed.

“Everyone needs help during unemployment because it could be a trying and discouraging time,” said the Baldwin Park resident. “A lot of people don’t know the right way to look for a job, such as networking, and how to tailor your resumes for exactly what you’re looking for.”

City officials said locals such as Hernandez have been the driving force behind an effort to open a WorkSource office in Baldwin Park. They have been in ongoing conversations with representatives from the Baldwin Park Adult School, WorkSource, the California Employment Development Department (EDD), as well as the Baldwin Park Business Association to get their plan into action.

Marc Castagnola, Baldwin Park’s Director of Community Development, said the city has been exploring the option for an in-town WorkSource office since last summer. WorkSource recently ran an office in Irwindale, he added, but its services were sometimes limited, and that facility eventually closed its doors a few months ago.

Since then, Baldwin Park Councilman, Ricardo Pacheco, has pioneered the effort to debut employment outreach out of the Baldwin Park Adult School along Maine Avenue. Pacheco reported that his city’s unemployment rate is at about 11 percent, the highest in the San Gabriel Valley for the last few years. That statistic is also above the state’s unemployment rate, which measures at about 8 percent.

Those figures won’t change until something is done to reach out to residents within the community, according to Pacheco. “There are not enough resources in our community to find jobs or for job training to encourage people to take advantage of what’s available out there.” he said. “Having something like this at the adult school would be a good start.”

According to its website, WorkSource California connects Los Angeles County job hunters with specialists, job listings, training resources, and even technical support to help get their foot in the employment door. The agency also links businesses with qualified candidates, training centers, and other assistance for their operations. WorkSource lists about 40 locations throughout Southern California – including one in El Monte – but creating a more local outlet for employment resources could benefit Baldwin Park residents and their surrounding cities.

“This is a resource where people that are looking for jobs or retraining or assistance can go. It helps residents connect with opportunities toward their future,” Castagnola said.

City officials expect the local WorkSource center would additionally be a hub for vocational training opportunities through the adult school; if all goes well, there is also a proposal to start a satellite office out of the facility as a way of expanding its services.

Finalizing plans for a Baldwin Park WorkSource office may take some time, organizers believe, mostly because each participating agency has its own set of stipulations and accommodations to be met. Project funding should not come at a great cost, if any, to the city, since most operations are run by county and state groups. Nonetheless, Castagnola said there is a strong interest in debuting a WorkSource office here.

Without a job source center within close proximity, Baldwin Park residents are often met with restrictions in time or reliable transportation to moving forward quickly toward employment, he said.

“We’ve heard this from many people. If someone has to take a bus to travel to El Monte and wait in line, they spend a whole day on the bus and commuting,” added Castagnola. “What they get in one day may not be as productive as what they could have gotten if it was closer to them.”

Hernandez couldn’t agree more. He said he had frequented the Irwindale WorkSource center and benefited from its services in the past; but now that the facility is closed, he’s been directed to use the location out of West Covina. Although he has his own transportation, Hernandez said the potential for a WorkSource center close to home is “actually perfect.”

“I really believe there’s a real need for that in communities with high unemployment and within any community really,” he said. “It’s an answered prayer.”

 

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Members of the Diamond Bar City Council honor former Traffic and Transportation Commissioner, Jen Mahlke, with a City Tile, a distinction which represents years of hard work for the City. (Photo By Raymond Mendoza)

Members of the Diamond Bar City Council honor former Traffic and Transportation Commissioner, Jen Mahlke, with a City Tile, a distinction which represents years of hard work for the City. (Photo By Raymond Mendoza)

Diamond Bar – Residents and proud family members attended the Diamond Bar City Council meeting in high numbers on Jan. 20, which included the award ceremony for the City’s annual “Through My Lens” photo contest.

To start, council members gave out two City Tiles: one to former Traffic and Transportation Commissioner, Jen Mahlke, for her outstanding service to the City from March 2011 to October 2014; and the other, to former Planning Commissioner – and newly appointed council member – Jimmy Lin. Both Mahlke and Lin were thanked for their service to the City in their respective positions and their years of hard work.

The Council then welcomed and congratulated nearly 20 Diamond Bar residents for their award winning participation in the 2014 “Through My Lens” photo contest, which had residents snapping shots around town for categories including people, places, nature, pets and digitally altered. The contest was also split between youth and adult participants.

Mayor Steve Tye thanked all the residents for their outstanding work and for continuing to show off the City through the perspective of their camera lenses.

“The Contest was started in 2008, and has focused positive attention on our community, which we’ve accomplished,” Tye said. “The result has been a win-win for residents and the City.  Residents get to exercise their passion for photography and the City gets a collection of incredible random art photographs to showcase throughout the year.”

After all the category and honorable mention winners were announced, Tye proclaimed that resident, Alfred Bertulfo, was this year’s grand prize winner.

The Council then moved to the list of future events, which included the Parks and Recreation Commission Jan. 22 meeting, the Planning Commission Jan. 27 meeting, the City Council Feb. 3 meeting, and the Household Hazardous Waste and E-Waste Roundup on Sat., Feb. 14 from 9 a.m.to 3 p.m. at the Gateway Corporate Center in the 1300 block of Bridge Gate Drive.

The Council then approved all the items on its consent calendar including the minutes for the Jan. 5 and Jan. 6 City Council and Traffic meetings, and the Oct. 9 and Nov. 13 Transportation Commission meetings, the ratification of check register dated Dec. 31 through Jan. 14 totaling $986,081.06, the authorization from the City Manager to execute any necessary documents/agreements from Winstream for 36 months of phone service in an amount not-to-exceed $50,000, and the authorization from the City Manager to execute any necessary documents/agreements from SC Fuels for 36 months for City vehicle fuel card services in an amount not-to-exceed $100,000.

With no more public hearings for consideration, the Diamond Bar City Council officially adjourned at 7:13 p.m., with plans to meet next month on Feb. 3, at 6:30 p.m., at 21865 Copley Drive.

Armstrong Creates Living Museum

By Juliette Funes

Photo Courtesy: Armstrong Elementary School

Photo Courtesy: Armstrong Elementary School

Diamond Bar – 5th and 6th Grade students at Armstrong Elementary invite the public to their annual “Living Museum of Historical People,” featuring performances reviving famous scientists, inventors, presidents and other historical figures in honor of Presidents’ Day.

The “Museum” will include student-created murals and science boards, which will encourage visitors to press buttons – at which point students will pop up and recreate a scene from American history.

The Armstrong Elementary “Living Museum” showcases a variety of subjects which are consistent with the Common Core State Standards of learning. Many exhibits will be on display, including a focus on the American Revolution, featuring such historical figures as Paul Revere, Mary Draper, Thomas Jefferson and George Washington.

The event will be held on Thurs., Jan. 29, with performances at 8:30, 9:45 and 11 a.m., and 1:30 and 5:30 p.m.  Performances last approximately one hour.  Armstrong Elementary is located at 22750 Beaverhead Drive, in Diamond Bar.

This event is open to the public, and visitors must check in at the office before coming to the museum.

What It Means To Be A Police Officer

By LEAFF (Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters)

Photo Courtesy: LEAFF of Eastvale

Photo Courtesy: LEAFF of Eastvale

Eastvale – Have you ever heard the saying, “If you want to be loved, be a firefighter; and if you want to be hated, be a cop?”  It seems that in today’s world and with recent cases in the news – including the brutal execution of two New York Police Officers – this has never been more true. However, let us take the time to really think about what it takes to be a Police Officer and reflect on that this year.

In 2014, 113 police officers were killed in the line of duty. These courageous men and women will never see their families, friends, or co-workers again and all for the service of others. While there may be “bad apples” in the bunch, the facts are that there are far more “good” cops that go to work each day and work vigilantly to uphold the law.

Representatives like Officer Stacy from Alabama, who caught a women stealing from a grocery store to feed her kids because she was short 50 cents to buy a dozen eggs. Instead of arresting her, he went back into the store and bought her a carton of eggs. Later, he brought her two truckloads of food. These stories don’t always get told.

What about Hamburg Officer, Joe Bloom, who helped a family with a disabled child get her medicine during the terrible storms on the East Coast?  Or Officer Briggs, who talked a man out of jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge.

Police Officers do much more than arrest criminals, write tickets and patrol the streets. Often, they go above and beyond to keep your family safe and to help those that others may walk by.

On behalf of all citizens, THANK YOU to our Law Enforcement Officers who go out and do the right thing each day. We appreciate what you do.

In 2015, take the time to be thankful for all the good Police Officers out there who deserve your respect and admiration.

DUI Saturation Patrol in Corona

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: Google Images

Photo Courtesy: Google Images

Corona – The Super Bowl is America’s most watched national sporting event. On Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 1, there will be lots of game day socializing that may include drinking. That’s why the California Office of Traffic Safety and Police, Sheriffs, and the CHP are urging football fans to choose sides now: drinking or driving. If you plan on drinking on Super Bowl Sunday, designate a sober driver to get you home safely.

The Fans Don’t Let Fans Drive Drunk campaign encourages people to make plans ahead of time that will prevent them from getting behind the wheel of a vehicle after drinking. Everyone should be mindful that if you’re taking medication, whether prescription or over-the-counter, drinking even small amounts of alcohol can greatly intensify the impairment effects. Driving impaired could result in injury or death for you or others on the road.

The Corona Police Department will be deploying Roving DUI Saturation Patrols during and following Sunday’s Super Bowl matchup. The DUI operations will be at undisclosed locations within the City where collision data reveals high incidents of DUI crashes and arrests.

According to data from National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in 2013 there were 867 people killed in alcohol-impaired-driving crashes in California – 29 percent of all crash fatalities in the state. A driver is considered alcohol-impaired with a blood alcohol concentration (BAC) of .08 or higher, the legal limit. This Sunday, don’t become another tragic Super Bowl stat, “Drunk driving is completely preventable,” said Sergeant Randy Wambold of the Corona Police Department. “All it takes is a little planning. We want fans to remember that it’s a choice. Drink or drive…but never do both.”

For those who plan to drink, leave your keys at home. Designate a sober driver, whether it’s a friend, relative, taxi, or public transportation. For those who plan to drive, refrain from any
alcohol. Instead, enjoy the game with food and non-alcoholic drinks. Being a sober, designated driver is a key role on Super Bowl Sunday. You might just save a life.

Funding for this operation is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS), through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. OTS is offering a free mobile app – DDVIP – aimed at thanking the sober designated driver with perks and free offers at area bars and restaurants, available for iPhone and Android. Never let friends drive if they have had too much to drink.

UPS Driver Guilty of Weapons Charges

Staff Reports

Riverside – A former United Parcel Service driver was found guilty on Thurs., Jan. 15 of federal gun trafficking charges for stealing dozens of guns going through the shipping company’s Ontario hub and providing them to another man, who sold the weapons on the street.

Curtis Ivory Hays II, 37, of Rancho Cucamonga, was convicted of firearms and other offenses following a six day trial in United States District Court.

Hays, who was found guilty of 15 counts, faces a statutory maximum sentence of 115 years in federal prison when he is sentenced on March 30 by United States District Judge Virginia A. Phillips.

The associate who allegedly sold some of the firearms – Dennis Dell White, Jr., 35, of Moreno Valley – previously pleaded guilty in the case and is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Phillips on May 4.

The evidence at trial showed that Hays stole a series of packages containing guns that were supposed to be delivered to Turner’s Outdoorsman in Rancho Cucamonga. From May through October of 2012, Hays stole six shipments containing a total of 72 firearms.

Hays gave the stolen firearms to White, who illegally sold the weapons to other individuals, and some of the guns were then sold to others. The firearms included 12-gauge shotguns and .45-caliber handguns.

Hays also stole shipments containing jewelry and mobile phones that were supposed to be delivered to Costco in Rancho Cucamonga, and this merchandise also was given to White.

Hays was found guilty of conspiracy, six counts of theft of firearms, six counts of receipt and possession of stolen firearms, and two counts of theft of interstate shipments.

White pleaded guilty to one count of theft of firearms.

The investigation into the stolen firearms was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in conjunction with the Ontario Police Department and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. Substantial assistance was provided by the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office.

Norco- Chili Cook-Off & Craft Beer Festival

Norco-Fire and Ice 1st Annual Chili Cook-Off and Craft Beer Festival

Norco-Fire and Ice 1st Annual Chili Cook-Off and Craft Beer Festival

Head over to Norco this Saturday for the Fire and Ice 1st Annual Chili Cook-Off & Craft Beer Festival! See the flyer for additional details.

Castle Rock Sends Student To Regional Spelling Bee

By Kelli Gile

Castle Rock Elementary 2nd Grader, Jaylin Dalal, won the Scripps Spelling Bee on January 14. He received a trophy and qualified to compete at the regional contest in February. (Photo courtesy of Kelli Gile)

Castle Rock Elementary 2nd Grader, Jaylin Dalal, won the Scripps Spelling Bee on January 14. He received a trophy and qualified to compete at the regional contest in February. (Photo courtesy of Kelli Gile)

Diamond Bar – 2nd Grade student, Jaylin Dalal was crowned the winner of the Castle Rock Elementary Scripps Spelling Bee on Jan. 14. The 8-year old won the school title by correctly spelling “commitment” during the final round of the competition.

Dalal will now represent his school next month during the preliminary Scripps Regional Spelling Bee at Mt. San Antonio College. The top 30 students qualify for the finals in March. The regional winner wins a trip to “Bee Week” – the National Spelling Bee Championship held in Washington D.C. this May.

This year, each class at Castle Rock hosted their own spelling bee using official Scripps words.  Students received grade level study guides in December to prepare for the competition.

Classroom winners competed during the finals held in the multipurpose room. The contest was broadcast school-wide. The top winner from each grade level received a medal and then vied in the championship round.

Finalists included Grant Wang, 1st Grade; Jaylin Dalal, 2nd Grade; Emily Lu, 3rd Grade; Sean Shih, 4th Grade; and Nicole Miyoshi, 5th Grade.

“Congratulations finalists. You have all worked very hard. Most of all, be proud of yourselves and have fun!” said teacher Matthew Morrison, who administered the exam with elementary learning specialist Kelly Morris.

During the 12-round battle, students were given a word that was then used in a sentence. They had the option to ask for a definition and were told to speak loudly and clearly.  Many students used higher-grade level lists to prepare for the competition.

“We have such great spellers here at Castle Rock!” Morris exclaimed.

Spelling champ Dalal studied to grade level 16.

“I was astonished,” Dalal said about winning the competition. “I was just smiling and giggling and feeling proud!”

Chino Area Crime

Staff Reports

 

West Valley Detention Center (Photo courtesy of County of San Bernardino)

West Valley Detention Center (Photo courtesy of County of San Bernardino)

Chino/Chino Hills – On Tues., Jan. 5, a juvenile female contacted School Resource Officer, Deputy Marlene Thompson, at Ayala High School in Chino Hills.  She advised Thompson of ongoing physical and mental abuse that she has suffered at her residence in Chino.

Fontana Sheriff’s Deputies and Detectives initiated an investigation and identified the suspect as Joe Patino, 37, of Chino.  A search warrant was conducted at the suspect’s residence, and Detectives gathered additional information in regard to the allegations of abuse.

Patino was taken into custody and booked into the West Valley Detention Center for Cruelty to a Child.  The victim and other minors in the home were taken into protective custody by Children and Family Services.

Detectives are concerned there may be additional victims; anyone with additional information regarding this incident is urged to contact Detective Joe Parker or Sergeant Mark Martinez at (909) 356-6767.  Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to contact the

West Valley Detention Center (Photo courtesy of County of San Bernardino)

West Valley Detention Center (Photo courtesy of County of San Bernardino)

We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.

In another incident, Deputies from the Chino Hills Station arrested a felon in possession of a loaded assault rifle during a routine traffic stop on Fri., Jan. 16.  This incident let Deputies to an illicit identify theft crime ring being conducted from a nearby hotel room.

Joseph Sisenia, 31, of Los Angeles, and two female passengers were contacted at a vehicle traffic stop.  Sisenia provided identification to the Deputies with a different name on it that later proved to be fraudulent.  Upon a record search of the occupants, Deputies discovered that Skye Kelley, 24, of Moreno Valley, had an active warrant for her arrest.  The other female passenger, Aimee Rodriguez, 27, of Baldwin Park, was in possession of and under the influence of a controlled substance. Deputies also discovered Sisenia’s true identity, and learned he was on felony probation for identity theft out of Montclair.

A vehicle search was conducted which revealed a loaded assault rifle with a high capacity magazine; additional ammunition was discovered in the car as well.  Deputies also recovered several Green Dot cards, gift cards, credit cards, check making materials, and items used to commit identify theft.  Green Dot cards are commonly used to launder the illegal proceeds of identity theft by funneling it to a generic prepaid credit account.

During the course of the investigation, deputies learned that the suspects had been staying in a nearby Extended Stay America hotel room.  A search of the hotel room uncovered more suspected narcotics and evidence of identity theft related to a Chino Hills mail theft case from December 2014, as well as an additional suspect, David Chacon, 41, of El Monte.

All the evidence was recovered and Detectives will attempt to locate additional victims.

All suspects were booked into the West Valley Detention Center for their respective crimes, including identify theft, possession of a high capacity magazine, felon in possession of a firearm, parole violation, conspiracy to commit identity theft, and active warrant for weapons.

Strategic Alliance: Free Networking

Staff Reports

Walnut – If you are looking for an effective way to market your business and network with local businesses at the same time, Strategic Alliance is the perfect solution…and it’s FREE!

Strategic Alliance is a non-profit company dedicated to providing businesses the opportunity to align synergistically by creating an environment conducive to business development.  They were founded in 1997 for the purpose of generating quality business opportunities.  By creating an alliance of ethics-driven business professionals who are dedicated to generating business, the level of customer service increases, creating better results.

Members meet each week to exchange information, ideas and referrals.  Over time, these relationships – which are built on trust and mutual respect – generate business opportunities.  Strategic Alliance is unique in the fact that they are free, have a proven track record with 13 years in business, and their meetings are fun (no one wants to sit through a boring meeting).  Similar networking groups often charge for this type of service.  One of the reasons Strategic Alliance works so well is that there is only one of each type of business within the membership; this way, you receive all the referrals from the group for your field of expertise.

The group meets every Thursday morning, 7 a.m., at the Holiday Inn (21725 Gateway Center Drive, off Golden Springs), in Diamond Bar.  Membership for the group is free, but everyone is encouraged to purchase breakfast to reserve the room at the Holiday Inn each week.  Guests are invited to enjoy a free breakfast at their first meeting to see if they are a good match for the group.  There are approximately 20 members at every meeting, which in turn generates hundreds of referrals every year, and creates tens of thousands of dollars in business.

Strategic Alliance covers Brea, Chino, Chino Hills, City of Industry, Claremont, Covina, Diamond Bar, Fullerton, Glendora, La Habra, La Puente, La Verne, Montclair, Ontario, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, Rowland Heights, San Dimas, Upland, Walnut, and West Covina.  They are now recruiting members in a variety of business genres

Contact Strategic Alliance today, and begin marketing your business and generating more income in an effective new way.  President, Johnny Hudson, understands that business by referral is the best possible way to grow your business and make more money.  Call him at (909) 268-9470, email him at BasicTrainingMembers@yahoo.com, or visit www.strategicnetworking.org for more information.