Category Archives: News By City

Eastvale: Leal Property Update

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Leal Property eastvale ca

Past aerial view of the Leal Property (Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale)

Eastvale – The Leal Property, a 160-acre parcel of some of the last open land in Eastvale, has been a popular subject around the community. The land is owned by dairyman, Brad Leal, who has been working with the City of Eastvale in developing a plan that brings his ideas into juxtaposition with what is best for the City. Leal has long been a proponent of ensuring that what is ultimately built on his property is beneficial to Eastvale.

After many negotiations, the property has been re-zoned to be primarily used for commercial and retail development, with a small percentage retained for residential housing. The housing is a requirement of the State of California.

The Leal Property was previously zoned for agricultural as well as some residential development. With the new Land Use Plan, the area was able to be re-zoned to include mixed-use purposes for retail, office, civic, etc.  This will pave the way for the development of a large downtown area that combines commercial and retail with open spaces and landmark features that would become a major part of Eastvale’s economy and esteem.

The land is now “entitled,” and according to Eastvale Councilmember Bill Link, this will provide a more streamlined process for applicants to come in and develop the land. Since the re-zoning has already taken place, they will be able to save time and money. Developers can now just draw up plans for their desired location (per zoning requirements), submit their plans to the City, pay their fees, obtain an Environmental Impact Review, and build. Link estimates that this will save them about a year of time.

The new Specific Plan is expected to come before the City Council in January or February 2015 for approval, after it goes through the Planning Commission.

According to Leal at a previous meeting about the project, “This is a big project and it will develop slowly. I don’t want some guy to just come in and build a big building.”

Instead Leal hopes that it will come in phases of construction and establish a real Downtown Eastvale feeling.

 

The Eastvale Community News Complete Edition 12.2014

Eastvale Dec Iss 2014The Eastvale Community News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco, Corona, and Chino. Click this link 2014-12-EastvalePgAll  to access the complete issue in pdf format.

Chino Hills: chARTS Presents, “It’s a Wonderful Christmas Carol”

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino Hills – The Art Committee of the Chino Hills Community Foundation, known as chARTS, presents a theatrical performance to celebrate the holiday season.

“It’s a Wonderful Christmas Carol” will feature a cast of five with performances at 7 p.m. Fri., Dec. 5; and at 4 p.m. Sun., Dec. 7.

The parody will spoof all things Christmas in this melodrama which combines two movies: It’s a Wonderful Life and A Christmas Carol; and the best of TV holiday specials that many will remember.

Performers are Matt Riggle, Richard Wallace, Jobob Taeleifi, Stacey Garcia, and Ken Parks who wrote the play. Parks is a writer and director for Disneyland, and former owner of All American Melodrama Theatre and Music Hall in Long Beach.

Tickets are $10 and are available for purchase at City Hall, 14000 City Center Drive; at the Chino Hills Community Center, 14250 Peyton Drive; and online at http://www.chinohills.org/chARTSevents. For additional information, please call (909) 364-2736 or email chcfoundation@chinohills.org.

chARTS is led by local artists and art lovers who represent a wide range of expertise in fine arts, graphic design, music, creative writing, theater, and more. They encourage the creation, enjoyment, and enrichment of the arts in Chino Hills. The Chino Hills Community Center serves as a home base for chARTS.

Residents who wish to share their special talents or artistic gifts are encouraged to visit http://chinohillsfoundation.com/contact-us/ to connect with the chARTS committee.

Eastvale Transforms Operational Structure

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

eastvale officialsEastvale – This year, the City of Eastvale has seen some big changes and restructuring. With the resignation of City Manager, Carol Jacobs, a few months past, and the appointment of temporary City Manager, Robert Van Nort, the operation of the City has come under some scrutiny.

Van Nort’s contract has recently been extended for another 90 days, until March 2015. Public Information Officer, Michele Nissen, has assumed the helm as Acting City Manager during a short absence by Van Nort, currently effective through Dec. 8.

The City is expected to open the official City Manager position up to applicants imminently.

Eastvale’s City Council was affected by the bizarre resignation of councilmember Jeff DeGrandpre last July. This created an immediate opening to which Joe Tessari was voted in to serve out the remaining two years of DeGrandpre’s term.

At the recent General Election, three seats on the Council were open. Council members William Link, and Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush ran for reelection, while Councilman Ric Welch did not. Nine candidates applied and campaigned for those positions. In the end, Link and Rush were reelected, along with newcomer, Clint Lorimore.

Lorimore, a small business owner who has lived in Eastvale since 2004, is anxious to start his first term on Eastvale’s Council.

“I am committed to the idea that together, we can make Eastvale a better place to live, work and play. I am looking forward to working with my fellow council members to implement policies of smart growth, which will provide comprehensive solutions to the challenges we face as a young and growing community,” said Lorimore.

Rush – who was Eastvale’s First Mayor in 2010, and has been a council member ever since – is excited to continue to work for the people of Eastvale and keep this City on the right track toward responsible growth, safe schools and a strong fiscal foundation.

Link – who was nominated to fill Kelly Howell’s vacated seat in 2013 – plans on continuing his focus on economic development and growth, as well as public and traffic safety.

The Public Safety Commission has also had a few bumps this year with the resignation of several commissioners for family and job related issues. Melonee Cruse, who was the Chair, also resigned recently due to job responsibilities.

Chris Hook, recently appointed by Mayor Ike Bootsma, is the newest commissioner. Hook hopes to increase and promote safety awareness around school zones and parks in effort to lower the amount of accidents involving pedestrians. His goals include creating a worry-free and safeguarded environment for parents and children in school zones and recreational areas. Hook brings 20 years of safety and security experience to the job, with 18 years as a proprietor of his own security business.

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Eastvale Crime: A 2014 Recap

By Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – According to Eastvale’s Police Department Co-Chief, Lt. Joseph Pemberton, crime in Eastvale is down 6.4% overall from last year. Part 1 Crimes – also known as Index or Summary-based crimes – are as follows:

  • Assaults: 112
  • Robberies: 13
  • Rapes: 6
  • Burglary: 191 (Up 5% from 2013)
  • Auto Theft: 92 (Down 22% from 2013)
  • Larceny: 567 (Down 9.7% from 2013)
  • Total Property Crimes: 850

 

Indoor Marijuana Grow houses have seen a decrease in 2014. According to Pemberton, in 2013 there were approximately 31 indoor grow operations in the City of Eastvale that were shut down by the Eastvale Special Enforcement Team (SET), with 13 arrests made. Some of these incidents are still being addressed in the court system. These arrests are often hard to bring to conviction as the actual perpetrators are difficult to catch and the operations are vast and far-reaching into many parts of California and even the United States.

This year, citizens have been more aware of this phenomenon and have actively reported suspicious activity. This has helped create a deterrent to individuals looking to grow marijuana indoors within the City of Eastvale.

“Our Special Enforcement Team aggressively investigates all reports of indoor cultivation, and they are widely known around Riverside County,” says Pemberton regarding the success in this area.

In 2014, the Eastvale SET conducted nine investigations into indoor grows in the City and served four search warrants. Two people have been arrested and their cases are pending.

Traffic Safety is a hot topic in Eastvale, and Lt. Pemberton has been asked repeatedly what citations are most frequently written by Police Officers around schools. They are as follows:

  • CVC 22352(b)(2) – Driving in excess of 25 mph in a school zone during restricted hours (when children are active).
  • CVC 21212(a) – Person under 18 operating or riding as a passenger on a bicycle without wearing an approved helmet.
  • CVC 21950(a) – Failure to yield to pedestrians in a crosswalk.
  • CVC 21461(a) – Disobeying Official Traffic Control Signs.
  • CVC 22400(a) – Driving on a highway at such a slow speed as to impede or block the normal and reasonable movement of traffic unless the reduced speed is necessary for safe operation.

 

The Eastvale traffic team will be conducting holiday safety programs and DUI Checkpoints routinely to maintain a steady presence and to serve as a reminder around the City of Eastvale to drive safely and be aware of surroundings. The Eastvale Police Department will also continue to conduct enforcements around our schools to keep children safe and help ease traffic congestion.

The Hit-and-Run death of Troy Davids that happened in April 2014 resulted in the arrest of Riverside County resident, Casey Coltrain. Coltrain, who had already been in jail on a prior arrest, was initially charged with 2nd degree murder and hit-and-run.

As of press time, Coltrain is awaiting his preliminary hearing, which is expected to take place around the second week of December. Lt. Michael Yates was one of the lead investigators on this incident, and he has continued to follow the case.

“No family should ever have to go through what the Davids’ have been through, I’m just glad that with the community’s help, we were able to ensure that Coltrain won’t ever hurt anyone again,” said Yates.

 

 

Corona: Home 4 the Holidays Reindeer Games

Dear Nixle User,

corona animal shelterThe City of Corona’s Animal Shelter has teamed with thousands of animal organizations from around the world to participate in an annual pet adoption drive called Home 4 the Holidays. The 2014 campaign, which runs from Oct. 1, 2014, through Jan. 2, 2015, unites over 3,500 partner organizations, (in all 50 states and in 23 different countries) with a focused goal of placing orphan pets into loving homes. The Home 4 the Holidays pet adoption drive began with a growing concern for the number of rescue facilities closing their doors during the holiday seasons. In seeking the perfect holiday gift, would-be adopters were forced to resort to pet stores or puppy mills. Additionally, pet store staffers, untrained to assess the likelihood of a successful animal/family match, contributed to an increased number of pets sent to shelters once the season was over. The Home 4 the Holidays Campaign asks shelter facilities to keep their doors open and get the word out. The program has grown into the largest pet adoption drive in the world and is credited with saving over 9.3 million pets across the globe since its inception in 1999. During the month of December 2014, selected animals named after famous reindeer have had the spay & neuter fees paid by elves, lowering their total adoption cost to $15! Please visit the Corona Animal Shelter and look for these special animals, and give them a good Home for the Holidays! Normal Dog-Licensing fees still apply. For more information call 951-736-2309, or Visit the Corona Animal Shelter at 608 Harrington St., Corona CA 92880.

Contact Information: Bill Sellers ISD 951-736-2309 Sellers.Bill@ci.corona.ca.us

For full details, view this message on the web.

Pomona: Superintendent Martinez Selected For Summit At White House

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – Richard Martinez, Superintendent of the Pomona Unified School District (PUSD), was selected by the U.S. Department of Education as one of 100 top school leaders from across America to participate in the first-ever National Connected Superintendents Summit, held on Wed., Nov. 19, at the White House.

Martinez is among exemplary local school chiefs who will be recognized for their leadership in helping transition their districts to digital learning. This unique conference will bring together officials throughout America to share promising approaches to using technology in classrooms.

“It is a tremendous honor and privilege to be invited to the White House to represent the Pomona Unified community and showcase the innovative ways our talented teachers are revolutionizing digital learning and education in the classroom,” said Martinez. “We are excited to be recognized for being trailblazers in the world of digital education and are proud to be a model of success that other schools can replicate.”

PUSD recently won two Golden Bell Awards from the California School Boards Association for its innovative use of technology in Early Childhood Education, and educational excellence at the Palomares Academy of Health Sciences. The District offers its students career pathways in computer science in partnership with Harvey Mudd College and Microsoft Corp., and courses in robotics through Cal Poly Pomona. Village Academy High School offers career courses in Film Studies and Computer Science/Information Technology.

Every PUSD classroom has Internet access District-wide.  32 Common Core/SBAC assessment-ready labs are being completed, and campus-wide Wi-Fi is expanding at all sites across the District. Mobile devices such as iPads, Chromebooks and laptops are available in PUSD’s K-12 schools, bringing educational technology into the classroom. Through community partnerships with EveryoneOn and Southeast Community Development Corp., PUSD is bridging the digital divide for District families.

“School districts across the country are helping teachers harness the power of technology to create personal learning environments for all students,” said U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan. “We want to make sure every child – whether he or she is in the inner-city, in a rural community or on a Native American reservation – has access to knowledge and the chance to learn 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

The White House summit will be followed by a series of 12 to 15 regional summits that will focus on the digital progress made possible by local school districts.  The events will also include the unveiling of digital tools that facilitate incorporation of technology into short-term and long-range education planning.

To help spotlight the value of technology in schools, the Education Department is sponsoring a Future Ready Initiative aimed at showcasing outstanding school leadership and strategies.

“The Future Ready Initiative highlights the critical role of district leaders in setting a vision and creating the environment where educators and students access the tools, content, and expertise necessary for thriving in a connected world,” said Richard Culatta, Director of the Department’s Office of Educational Technology.

Future Ready superintendents demonstrate effective use of technology in some of the following ways:

 

  • Fostering and leading a culture of collaboration and digital citizenship;
  • Transitioning schools and families to high-speed connectivity;
  • Empowering educators with professional learning opportunities;
  • Accelerating progress toward universal access to quality devices;
  • Providing access to quality digital content;
  • Creating access, equity, and excellence – particularly in rural, remote, and low-income districts;
  • Offering digital tools to students and families to help them prepare for success in college;
  • Sharing best practices and mentoring other districts in the transition to digital learning.

 

“Technology has the potential to transform education in America, allowing students to learn more, to do so at their own pace, and to develop the knowledge and skills employers demand,” Culatta said. “And yet, fewer than 30 percent of classrooms have the broadband Internet to support today’s education technology needs.”

In June 2013, President Obama announced the ConnectED Initiative, starting with a goal of connecting 99 percent of students to next-generation connectivity within five years. Model schools and districts across the country are using technology to create personalized learning environments; technology will play an increasingly crucial role in the future.

For more on the work of the Department’s Office of Educational Technology, including resources for students, parents and educators, visittech.ed.gov.

 

 

 

 

Something Smells Good

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

Experts say that we associate smells with specific events or memories in our lives.  For example, the scent of pine trees reminds me of summer camping trips in the mountains of Arizona. A salty ocean breeze reminds me of trips with my parents to the beaches of Southern California when I was a little guy. And the smell of waffle cones reminds me of walking down Main Street in Disneyland on vacation when my own children were young.

What comes to your mind when you pick up a familiar scent or smell?  It may be the smell of a rose in your backyard or the blossoms of a fruit tree at the house next door. One of my favorite scents at this time of year is the orange blossoms on the trees in our backyard. They are filled with blossoms right now and they smell so good!

The smell of orange blossoms takes me back to where I grew up in Scottsdale, Arizona.  There were orange groves next to the elementary school I attended, and there were orange groves near the Little League baseball fields where we spent so many hours. My wife grew up in a home that had over 20 citrus trees right on their property.  The scent this time of year is almost overwhelming; I have a lot of fond memories.

What are your favorite scents and smells?  What memories do they bring to your mind?

I am convinced that God created all the color, texture, sounds and smells for us to enjoy. I hope you will stop and smell the roses or the orange blossoms you encounter today.

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Ave. Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit http://www.efreedb.org.

 

Comeback Of The Year

BY PASTOR ROB NORRIS

pastor-rob-norris-the-crossings

2 Corinthians 4:1 – Through God’s loving-kindness, He has given us this job to do. So we do not give up.

It’s easy to become discouraged when we fail. It’s easy to lose heart and stop trying. That’s why I love stories like this one:

For many years, Bob Brenly was the starting catcher for the San Francisco Giants. But because of a last-minute lineup change in November of 1986, he was pressed into duty at third base. Everything was going fine…until the fourth inning.

That’s when Brenly committed not one, not two, not three, but a record-tying four errors in the same inning – including two on the same play. In fact, he almost had a fifth error.

“I missed a head-high line drive that tipped off the webbing of my glove and went into left field,” Brenly said. “If they hadn’t called that one a hit, my name would have stood alone in the record books.”

The home crowd booed. Brenly’s coaches and teammates avoided even looking at him. But his manager left him in the game. Good thing.

When Brenly came up to bat the following inning, he smashed a solo home run. His next at-bat was a two-run single in the seventh to tie the game. And with the final plate appearance of the day in the ninth inning, he stroked a game-winning homer. His manager later commented, “This man deserves to be the Comeback Play of the Year for this game alone.”

If you’ve been trying to branch out of the ordinary – at home, at work, in your walk with Jesus Christ – don’t let a few setbacks get you down. Keep swinging for the fences. And if it’s your spouse who is failing, like that manager, keep on believing in your teammate.

Live It: Talk about any recent failures in your life or your spouse’s life. Discuss how you can encourage each other to stay with it and keep believing.

Pray: Thank God for how He comforts us and empowers us to keep stepping out in faith. Pray for the perseverance to press on.

Join us Wed., Dec. 24, at 4:30 p.m., for our Christmas Eve Service.

The Crossings meets Sundays, 10 a.m., at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale. For more information call (951) 847-6836, or visit http://www.atthecrossings.com.

 

 

 

 

Pomona: Local Students To March In Rose Parade

By Juliette Funes

 

rose-parade-diamond-ranch-band

Diamond Ranch High School students Jasmine Villatoro (flag), left, Ismael Rodriguez (tuba), Nicole Hernandez (banner) and Alissa Rodriguez (banner), were selected to perform in the Tournament of Roses Honor Band on New Year’s Day in Pasadena. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

Pomona – 11 marching band and color guard members from the Pomona Unified School District won coveted spots in the Tournament of Roses Honor Band and will make their debut at the 126th Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s Day in Pasadena.            The Pasadena City College Tournament of Roses Honor Band – which has marched in every Tournament of Roses Parade since 1930 – chose for its 2015 band seven students from Garey High School and four from Diamond Ranch High School. From Garey, they are Miguel Saldana, Armando Santana, Angelica Arechiga, Christopher Chavez, Isabel Ibarra, Mireya Munguia and Jose “JJ” Cachu. From Diamond Ranch, they are Ismael Rodriguez, Alissa Rodriguez, Nicole Hernandez and Jasmine Villatoro.

“It is a great honor and privilege for these immensely gifted students to be given the opportunity to perform in the Tournament of Roses Parade, where they will showcase their talents to millions of viewers from around the globe,” said Board of Education Member, Dr. Roberta A. Perlman.

rose-parade-garey-band

Garey High School students Miguel Saldana (snare drum), left, Armando Santana (tenor sax), Angelica Arechiga (banner), Christopher Chavez (trombone), Isabel Ibarra (banner), Mireya Munguia (clarinet) and Jose “JJ” Cachu (herald trumpet) were selected to perform in the Tournament of Roses Honor Band on New Year’s Day in Pasadena. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

Students from throughout the southland auditioned on Oct. 12 at Pasadena City College for a chance to perform in the band, comprised of exceptional high school musicians from throughout Southern California. Of those who auditioned, only 232 were selected, marking an impressive showing for Pomona Unified.

“It was an intense audition process for these students, who were scored on their technical ability, timing and sound,” said Garey High School Band Director Robert Lawe. “Now, they have one of the largest forums in the world to demonstrate their creative skills.”

“It’s an exciting feat to have so many of our students chosen to perform at the Rose Parade, and I couldn’t be more proud of their accomplishments,” added Philip Ruiz, Band Director at Diamond Ranch High School.

Members will practice every Sunday in November and December and almost every day during winter break to prepare for the trek. The Tournament of Roses Parade is seen by hundreds of thousands of people along the parade route in Pasadena and is broadcast to 200 territories and countries world-wide.

“I want to congratulate these students, along with the band directors at Garey and Diamond Ranch high schools, for earning the opportunity to perform in the world-famous Rose Parade and shining a light on the successful visual and performing arts programs at Pomona Unified,” said PUSD Superintendent Richard Martinez. “They are an inspiration, and I can’t wait to cheer on these standout students as they walk the six-mile parade route down Colorado Boulevard.”

 

 

 

Riverside: Two IE Men Plead Guilty To ATM Robberies

Staff Reports

atm robbers

ATM Robbery Suspects, James Costilow and David Silva. (Photo Courtesy: Murrieta Police Dept)

Riverside – Two men responsible for a series of ATM robberies in which they used power tools and a truck to forcibly open safes inside drive-up ATMs at facilities operated by JP Morgan Chase Bank have pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy that stole nearly a half million dollars.According to the United States Attorney’s Office, David Joseph Silva, Jr., 25, of Fontana, pleaded guilty on Mon., Nov. 17 to conspiracy to commit bank larceny, a charge that carries a statutory maximum penalty of five years in federal prison.

Silva pleaded guilty before United States District Judge, Jesus G. Bernal, who scheduled a sentencing hearing for February 23.

On Mon., Nov. 10, James William Costilow, 38, of Riverside, pleaded guilty to the same conspiracy charge. Judge Bernal scheduled Costilow’s sentencing hearing for February 9.

During their guilty pleas, Silva and Costilow admitted that they attempted to break into Chase Bank ATMs in three counties 15 times over a six-month period. The pair successfully got into the safes inside ATMs on four occasions and conspired to steal approximately $462,093 in cash. In some of the thefts, the pair stole the entire ATM device, while in later attempts they used power saws or a “jaws of life” device to gain access to the safes.

Silva and Costilow were arrested on Sept. 22 after an unsuccessful ATM robbery in Murrieta, in which they first attempted to cut the hinges on the safe doors and then tried to pull the doors off with a truck. The attempt failed when the bumper came off the truck.

This case is the product of an investigation by the FBI and the Murrieta Police Department.

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Operation Christmas Child Packing Party

When: Sat., Nov. 22, 4 to 8 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

Details: Mt. Calvary will be filling 1,000 shoe boxes with items they have been collecting all year. Operation Christmas Child sends filled boxes around the world for Christmas, so children less fortunate can hear about the word of God and receive a gift on Christmas.

Contact: Ann Lovell, (909) 730-9057.

Inland Pacific Ballet’s, The Nutcracker

When: Nov. 29 through Dec. 27

Where: Arcadia Performing Arts Center (188 Campus Drive, Arcadia), Nov. 29/30, 2 p.m.; Lewis Family Playhouse (12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga), Dec. 6, 1 and 7 pm., Dec. 7, 1 p.m.; Pomona College’s Bridges Auditorium (450 North College Way, Claremont), Dec. 13, 14, 20, 21; Fox Performing Arts Center (3801 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside), Dec 27, 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Details: The critically acclaimed Inland Pacific Ballet brings The Nutcracker story to life with dazzling sets, beautiful costumes, and nearly 100 dancers on stage – in four theatres! Tickets start at $38, with discounts available.

Contact: jpballet.org

Diamond Bar United Church of Christ Events

IVHP Food Bank Collection

When: Now through Dec. 21

Details: Youth are collecting staple foods (canned goods, cereal, rice, beans, baby food, etc.) for the Inland Valley Hope Partners. Items can be dropped off at the church office Monday through Friday.

Christmas Tree Lot Open

When: Nov. 29 through Dec. 23, 3 to 8 p.m. daily

Free Choir Program

When: Sun., Dec. 14; 6 p.m.

Details: An excellent event to help with holiday emotions. Members of the DBHS Orchestra will accompany the Choir during the Cantata. All are welcome to attend; refreshments will be served.

Christmas Eve Service – All are welcome

When: Wed., Dec. 24; 7 p.m.

Where: All events are located at 2335 Diamond Bar Blvd., Diamond Bar

Contact: Call (909) 861-4735, or visit http://www.diamondbarucc.org

Christmas Advent Services

When: Dec. 3 – Christmas Play/Preschool; Dec. 10 – Christmas Play/Children K-4th

Grade; Dec. 17 Advent Services/Grades 5-

8. All services are at 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Service 11 p.m. Christmas Day Service 10 a.m.

Where: Family Life Center, Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

23rd Annual Scholarship Tree of Lights Fundraiser

When: Dec. 4 – 5; noon to 4 p.m.

Where: Von’s Market, 350 N. Lemon Avenue, Walnut

Details: The Walnut Valley Women’s Club announces it will be selling lights for $5, and ornaments for $10. All proceeds go toward scholarships for 2014 graduates from Walnut and Nogales High Schools.

Mt. Calvary Annual Christmas Boutique

When: Thurs., Dec. 11 and Fri., Dec. 12.

Where: Family Life Center; Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

Details: There will be crafters selling inexpensive items.

Contact: If you are interested in being a crafter, call Cathy Harden at (909) 861-3526.

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.

Bookstore Blowout

Where: Twice Sold Tale Bookstore located at the Walnut Library, La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Details: All books and media: Any four items for $1 ($1 minimum purchase).

Contact: (909) 595-0757 or email the.walnut.library@mac.com.

Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second Tuesday of every month.

Where: Basically BOOKS locations: at 23447 Golden Springs Road, Diamond Bar and at the Diamond Bar Library: 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.

Details: Books and education videos will be offered at special discounts for teachers at all levels. Teachers can sign up at either Basically BOOKS locations or email BasicallyBOOKS@aol.com to join these special teacher appreciation afternoons.

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

 

 

Santa Ana: At-Risk Students Earn Over $25K In Turkey Dinners

Staff Reports

 

Santa Ana – Turkey dinners were awarded on Wed., Nov. 19, to 855 at-risk students who succeeded in the Orange County Gang Reduction Intervention Partnership’s (OC GRIP) 5th Annual Thanksgiving Challenge to improve student attendance, behavior, and grades.

The awards included a full Thanksgiving dinner, complete with side dishes, to feed a family of ten, and were delivered to participating OC GRIP schools for the successful students and their families to pick up. Deputy district attorneys, police officers, deputies, investigators, probation officers, and staff from all of the OC GRIP agencies were on hand to distribute the dinners.

Ralphs/Food 4 Less and Saddleback Church donated over 850 turkey dinners this year, compared to 400 in previous years, as part of the ongoing OC GRIP gang prevention effort to keep kids in school and out of gangs. The total donation is valued at over $25,000. OC GRIP extended the incentive to students at 50 schools across Orange County this year, compared to the previously participating 43 schools.

Orange County District Attorney (OCDA) Tony Rackauckas was at Viejo Elementary in Mission Viejo to personally greet the students and their families.

“I am truly grateful for the generosity of Ralphs/Food 4 Less and Saddleback Church for bringing Thanksgiving to so many deserving children and their families,” said Rackauckas. “I am absolutely thrilled for the opportunity these students have to do something good for their families and praise them for learning that there are rewards for good behavior.”

“Ralphs and Food 4 Less are proud to support a program that benefits families, the community at large, and keeps our children safe,” said Kendra Doyel, Community Affairs Senior Manager for Ralphs/Food 4 Less. “Our donation to this program is one of the many ways that Ralphs and Food 4 Less contributes to the communities where we work and live.”

At the beginning of the 2014-15 school year, over 1,000 students from 50 OC GRIP elementary and middle schools were invited to earn a Thanksgiving turkey dinner for their families by succeeding in a gang prevention challenge. The terms of the challenge were determined by each school and included no participation in gang activity or wearing gang clothing, no disciplinary action, perfect attendance, and improved grades. All of the 1,000 students were in grades four through eight and were individually identified by their respective schools as being the most at-risk of joining a criminal street gang. OC GRIP does not work with documented gang members, who were ineligible to participate.

The OC GRIP Thanksgiving Incentive was run by Orange County law enforcement agencies – including the OCDA, Orange County Probation Department, Orange County Sheriff’s Department in the cities of Dana Point, Laguna Hills, Lake Forest, Mission Viejo, San Clemente, San Juan Capistrano, Stanton, and unincorporated areas of North Orange County, Buena Park Police Department, Costa Mesa Police Department, Fullerton Police Department, Garden Grove Police Department, Orange Police Department, Santa Ana Police Department, and Tustin Police Department – and has over 500 community partners.

 

Riverside: Western Sets Water Saving Example

BY RACHEL MCGUIRE 

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Western Municipal Water District turf to be eliminated and replaced with climate-appropriate landscaping.

Riverside – When Western Municipal Water District, Riverside Community College (RCC) and the Santa AnaWatershed Association (SAWA) were searching for an inspiring way to promote landscape water-use efficiency, they didn’t have to look any further than beyond their own front door.            With more than 60 percent of water use spent outdoors, the organizations banded together in the name of efficiency to replace the grass at 450 E. Alessandro Blvd., in Riverside. This site, which was previously Western’s headquarters and now home to RCC and SAWA, will be transformed with climate-appropriate plants. The project will serve as a public demonstration site highlighting increased water savings and sustainability.The process began just last week with the start of purposely killing off all turf at the facility. The dead turf will then be removed to make space for the installation of a more environmentally friendly landscape designed to maximize water savings in a region that’s not only semi-arid, but also currently in the midst of a serious drought.

The location for the outdoor transformation is ideal due to its proximity to the Westerns’ water efficiency garden – Landscapes Southern California Style(SM) – which serves as an invaluable water-use efficiency exhibit for the public. Once complete this winter, the makeover and Landscapes Southern California Style(SM) will provide a wide range of water-efficient landscaping ideas, some of which already have District-sponsored incentives available to customers.

The public is invited to visit Landscapes Southern California Style(SM) and observe the phases of the Alessandro Turf Removal Project. Information about the project will be available at the site. The public can also LIKE Western on Facebook, or follow them on Twitter to get play-by-play updates.

Western Municipal Water District provides water supply, wastewater disposal and water resource management to the public in a safe, reliable, environmentally sensitive and financially responsible manner.

 

Diamond Bar Council Recap

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar City Council members met for the final time in November for a regular meeting, but were unable to extend the City’s ordinance to prohibit medical marijuana dispensaries because of a lack of voting members. Council members Ling-Ling Chang and Jack Tanaka were absent from the meeting.

To start, Mayor Carol Herrera presented Ted Robinson, owner of Robinson Properties, with the Business of the Month Award for November 2014. Herrera cited Robinson’s years of service to the community and local economy as the reason for his recognition.

Following Robinson’s recognition and public comments, the Council listed the City’s future events for the Walnut Valley Water District Public Meeting on Nov. 19, the Historic Windmill dedication on Nov. 20, the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Nov. 20, the Grand View Trail opening on Nov. 22, the Planning Commission meeting on Nov. 25, the City closures during Thanksgiving on Nov. 27 and 28, the Holiday Diamond Ride – which gives free shuttle rides to and from Diamond Bar shopping centers from Nov. 28 through Jan. 1 – and the City Council meeting on Dec. 2

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar including the minutes for the Nov. 4 study session and Nov. 4 regular meeting, the Oct. 14 Planning Commission meeting, a ratification for a check register totaling $783,157.58, transmittal of a comprehensive annual financial report for the year ending June 30, approval of a contract amendment with Fehr and Peers for an intersection improvement strategies study at Grand Avenue/Diamond Bar Boulevard and Brea Canyon Road/Pathfinder Road in the amount of $14,670 plus a contingency amount for $2,000, and the approval of a contract amendment with RKA Consulting Group for preparation of an application package in association with the 2015 Metro Call for projects in the amount of $19,800.

The Council’s only public hearing item was an ordinance extending urgency Ordinance No. (03)2014 suspending Chapter 8.26 of the Diamond Bar Municipal Code and prohibiting the operation and establishment of medical marijuana dispensaries.

According to City Manager, James DeStefano, the Council could not approve the item, since the passage required a 4/5 vote. Since Council Members Chang and Tanaka were not present, DeStefano recommended that the item be carried over to the Dec. 2 City Council meeting. The Council then approved the motion to move the item to its next meeting.

Following the Council’s reports and comments, they adjourned at 7:20 p.m. with plans to meet on Dec. 2 in the Diamond Bar City Council Chambers at 21810 Copley Drive.

 

Walnut Repealing Restrictions For Sex Offenders

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – After being threatened with a lawsuit, the Walnut City Council recently approved the first reading of an ordinance that would make the City’s sex offender restrictions more closely aligned with California laws.

The first reading was approved unanimously by the City Council members during a Nov. 12 meeting.

According to a report by Senior Management Analyst, Rosalea Layman, a January decision by the 4th District Court of Appeals mandated that sex offender ordinances in Orange County cannot impose residency restrictions more stringently than those already imposed by the state’s law (also known as Jessica’s Law).

Jessica’s Law – passed as Proposition 63 in California in 2006 – increases penalties for violent and habitual sex offenders and child molesters, prohibits sex offenders from living within 2,000 feet of a school or park, requires a lifetime GPS monitoring of registered sex offenders, expands the definition of a sexually violent predator, and changes the current two year involuntary civil commitment for sexually violent predators to an indeterminate commitment, subject to annual review by the Director of Mental Health, and the subsequent ability of sexually violent predators to petition the courts for conditional release or unconditional discharge.

Walnut’s ordinance, No. 08-04, adhered to all the restriction’s of Jessica’s Law, as well as imposed restrictions including the number of sex offenders allowed residence in one house, the proximity of sex offenders to state licensed daycare facilities, and renting property – including hotels – to more than one sex offender.

Following the decision, the California Reform Sex Offender Laws’ (CA RSOL) non-profit group filed lawsuits with South Pasadena, Pomona, Westminster, Wasco, Taft and Carson, arguing that their ordinances violated constitutional rights.

In September, Mayor Nancy Tragarz was mailed a letter by CA RSOL, asking that City officials remove its City ordinances and instead be governed only by Jessica’s Law.

During the Council’s meeting, City Attorney Michael Montgomery described the state’s statutes as being “very extensive,” and that Walnut’s stricter ordinances could mean a costly lawsuit for the taxpayers.

“The problem that cities are running into is that the ones that do not amend their ordinances in compliance with the legislation are being sued and the plaintiffs are recovering attorney’s fees,” Montgomery said. “Locally, I know South Pasadena was sued … we agreed that the state law will apply and that we do not need to be sued for trying to adopt unenforceable regulations.”

Montgomery said that since the 4th District Court of Appeals’ decision, CA RSOL has been creating lawsuits all over California, and that it would save the Walnut residents a great deal of money to just adhere to state sex offender laws.

Mayor Nancy Tragarz agreed with Montgomery’s stance, stating that Jessica’s Law and the many sex offender restrictions that are already imposed should be well enough for Walnut residents.

“The state has a very extensive statute regarding this, so the state regulates it and we have to abide by laws poised by the state,” Tragarz said. “As the lowest jurisdiction, you always have to follow since the county supersedes us, the state supersedes us and the Feds are right on the top.”

Tragarz also mentioned that in addition to Jessica’s Law, Walnut residents should feel safe knowing that even with it’s own City ordinances going away, there are many restrictions in place that ensure the safety of children – including Megan’s Law – to locate where sex offenders live.

Following the first approval, the second hearing of the ordinance will be read on Dec. 10, and Tragarz estimates that its final approval will take place in January 2015.

Chino/Chino Hills: Renewable Transmission Project Update

BY K.P. SANDER

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A brand new TRTP tower getting its finishing touches on Edison Street, just west of Central Avenue. (Photo Courtesy: KP Sander)

Chino/Chino Hills – The Tehachapi Renewable Transmission Project (TRTP) has been in the works for a while now, with construction anticipated to be completed in 2016. The objective is to deliver electricity from new wind farms in the Tehachapi area to Southern California Edison customers as well as the California transmission grid, all in an effort to meet the State’s renewable energy goal of 33 percent by the year 2020. Ultimately, TRTP will be able to deliver up to 4,500 megawatts of renewable energy, or enough to power approximately three million homes.

The industry standard for electricity distribution is through overhead power lines, and the majority of the TRTP project is being completed in this fashion. Due to the costs of construction and repair, 500 kV transmission lines are rarely, if ever, constructed underground.

In a first-of-its-kind project, Chino Hills was granted an undergrounding proposal by the California Public Utilities Commission on July 11, 2013. The Decision stated that the burden imposed on the City by the overhead lines was unfair and contrary to its community values. That Decision also ordered the removal of overhead lines already in place in a 3.5 mile section of the TRTP right-of-way in Chino Hills to be replaced with underground cabling.

This undergrounding is a very complex project, the cost of which will run about $224 million. This amount will be tacked on to the over $2 billion budget of TRTP, ultimately passed on to utility ratepayers. While the amount sounds exorbitant, the City of Chino Hills analyzed that it would net only $7.03 for each household over the life of the project.

The most recent updates in the Chino and Chino Hills area included the use of helicopters to facilitate the stringing of transmission lines to the massive towers. During the period of Nov. 10 to 16, SCE also completed grading, trenching and demolition work in the right-of-way corridor, as well as surveying, staking, the clearing of vegetation, and installation of fencing.

Up next will be demotion work at the eastern transition station, located between Pipeline Avenue and the Chino Valley Freeway (71). Some of the work will be completed at night in order to reduce construction noise impacts to local businesses.

SCE is committed to ensuring public safety and minimizing inconveniences during construction. They recommend closing all doors and windows facing construction in order to reduce dust and noise. Covering pools and vehicles will also provide benefit. Watch for informational mailers and door hangers for construction activity in your area.

For additional information, call (877) 795-8787, or email trtp@sce.com.

 

 

Pomona: Ice Skating Coach Gets 98 Years For Molestation

STAFF REPORTS

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Donald James Vincent (Photo Courtesy: LA Weekly.com)

Pomona – Donald James Vincent, former ice skating coach, and convicted child molester, received a sentence of 98.8 years to life in prison at Pomona’s Superior Court on Thurs., Nov. 6.

Vincent, 31, was found guilty by a jury – who deliberated for less than a day – back on Jan. 28 on one count of continuous sexual abuse of a child, two counts of lewd acts upon a child, two counts of forcible lewd acts on a child, and five charges relating to sex acts with a child under the age of 10.

Vincent had worked as a coach at various ice rinks throughout Los Angeles, Riverside and Orange counties since 2006. He was arrested in Jan. 2013 on charges relating to students at the Paramount Iceland rink on molestations that occurred between 2007 and 2011 at Vincent’s home in Hacienda Heights (and another residence in Downey).

It is reported that the male child involved – who was between 12 and 15 years old at the time – kept the abuse hidden until he told a friend two years later. The boy was encouraged to come forward to authorities which resulted in Vincent’s arrest. Officials encouraged others to come forward as well, which resulted in additional charges against the accused with a female student less than 10 years of age.

The District Attorney’s Office has reportedly stated that Vincent was also ordered by the Court to pay more than $3.5 million in restitution, as well as register as a sex offender.

Vincent has been held without bail since his arrest.

Diamond Bar: Ryan Seacrest Celebrates DB High School Music Director

STAFF REPORTS

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Diamond Bar High School senior flutist, Bridget Pei, took a test drive with Ryan Seacrest during the Drive 4UR School fundraiser on Nov. 11. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Diamond Bar – “American Idol” Host, Ryan Seacrest, came to Diamond Bar High School to celebrate Instrumental Music Director, Steve Acciani, a national semifinalist for the Grammy Music Educator Award.

The Grammy Foundation and Ford Motor Company presented the special event on November 11.

KIIS-FM – with Manny on the Streets – entertained families with concert tickets, CD give-a-ways, and line dances as they awaited the celebrity’s arrival. The DBHS Color Guard and Band performed “Happy” when Seacrest arrived before a huge crowd of fans at 1 p.m.

Seacrest, the Honorary Grammy Foundation Chair, greeted music teacher Acciani on stage.

“We want to congratulate you and thank you for all you do,” Seacrest said.

Acciani said that he was a bit nervous speaking in front of the crowd.

“I usually have my back to the audience,” the Music Director quipped.

Acciani said that he was extremely grateful for the support of the program.

“I think the whole community embraces what the arts can do for our students and they’re incredibly supportive. It adds so much academically and gives the students a way to express themselves.”

The event featured 700 instrumental music students who played during the fundraising festival.

DBHS partnered with Ford Motor Company and Fairway Ford for the Drive 4 UR School national test drive program to help raise money for the school’s outstanding music program. During the one-day event, $20 (up to $6,000) was donated for every person who test-drove one of the 2015 models including the Flex, Fusion, F-150, Escape, Explorer, and C-MAX.

Two excited Brahmas were plucked from the audience to go on a test drive with Seacrest.

“It was fantastic! He’s a great guy,” exclaimed senior Will Nazareno, a 17-year old tuba player after the ride of his life. Nazareno then described his award-winning music teacher.

“Mr. Acciani is such a pride for Diamond Bar High!” he said. “He helps us with everything we do; he guides us, and serves as our light.”

Senior flutist, Bridget Pei, drove to the local In-N-Out with the television star.

“I got a cheeseburger and Ryan got the healthy choice, a protein burger.” The crew at In-N-Out was a little shaken up by the surprise visit, she explained.

“They were so excited that when they gave us the change, they dropped the money, so we had to go outside and get it.”

Pei is thrilled her teacher received the national award.

“There’s no other band director in the entire world that deserves it more that he does. Mr. A (as he is known) dedicates his heart and soul into this program.”

The community lined up to support the Drive 4 UR School program.

“Anything I can do to help raise money for the school, I’m willing to do. And to test drive a car is a great opportunity to try out a new vehicle,” said DBHS English teacher Stacy Tenace.

“I’m excited about any creative ways they can raise funds for the kids. So this is great!” said band parent, Sam Ocon, just before driving a new Ford Fusion.

Several guest musicians joined the Commercial Music Program rock band performance including Dramarama singer, John Easdale, and Oingo Boingo drummer, Johnny Vatos.

One of the day’s highlights was when Acciani played the saxophone during the classic, “Dead Man’s Party.”

Acciani was selected as one of 25 semifinalists out of more than 7,000 nominations from all 50 states. The Music Educator Award recognizes educators who have made a significant and long lasting contribution to music education in the schools.

Finalists will be named in December. The national winner will be announced live at the Grammy Awards in February.

 

 

Riverside: Man Sentenced To Death For Murder of Marine

STAFF REPORTS

sergeant-jan-pietrzak

Image Courtesy: Victims Families For The Death Penalty)

Riverside – On Fri., Nov. 7, a Riverside County Superior Court judge sentenced a man to death for the 2009 murders of a United States Marine Corps Sergeant, and his wife, in their home near Murrieta.

Kesaun Kedron Sykes, 27, was convicted by a Riverside County jury on Aug. 5, and that same jury decided on Aug 21 that Sykes should be put to death. Judge Christian Thierbach rendered that death sentence Nov. 7.

Sykes is the fourth and final man to be convicted of the murders of U.S. Marine Corps Sergeant, Jan Pietrzak, 24, and his wife, Quiana Jenkins-Pietrzak, 26, who were found murdered in their home in the unincorporated area of Winchester-French Valley, near Murrieta.

Three of the four men were sentenced to death, while the fourth was sentenced by a jury to life in prison without the possibility of parole.

Sykes was convicted of two counts of first-degree murder, and jurors also found true the special circumstances of murder during the commission of a robbery, during the commission of a burglary, rape by instrument, and multiple murders.

In June 2013, two separate Riverside County juries found Kevin Cox, 26, Emrys John, 25, and Tyrone Miller, 27, guilty of two counts of first-degree murder and also found true the special circumstances of murder during the commission of a robbery, during the commission of a burglary and multiple murders. John and Miller had one jury, and Cox had a separate jury. Those same jurors decided during the penalty phase of the trial that John and Miller should be put to death and that Cox should receive life in prison without the possibility of parole. All three were sentenced in 2013 by Judge Thierbach.

In October 2008, Jan Pietrzak and Quiana Jenkins-Pietrzak were found bound and both had been shot in the head. Cox, John, and Miller all worked with Sgt. Pietrzak at one time as Marines while stationed at Camp Pendleton. Cox, John, Miller and Sykes went to the Pietrzak home to rob the victims, and then forced their way inside. Pietrzak was physically assaulted and his wife was sexually assaulted before both were murdered.

This case was prosecuted by Deputy District Attorney, Daniel DeLimon.