Category Archives: News By City

Inland Empire: Rare Virus May Head For Riverside County

BY SHAUNDA GOEGEBUER

(Courtesy of www.cdc.gov)

(Courtesy of http://www.cdc.gov)

Riverside County – According to the Center For Disease Control (CDC), from mid-August through Oct. 6, nearly 600 confirmed cases of a rare respiratory virus known as Enterovirus 68 (EV-D68) have been documented in 43 different states and the District of Columbia.

Some State Labs may also have confirmed cases, but they are not included in the CDC’s official count unless they are confirmed specifically by the CDC.

The CDC’s current confirmed cases started in the states of Colorado, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, and Missouri, and now include Alabama, Arkansas, California, Connecticut, Delaware, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

The virus appears to be rapidly making its way across the United States and could find its way to Riverside County before the end of October.

Enterovirus 68 was first documented and isolated in the State of California back in 1962. Until recently, no new major outbreaks have occurred. The virus starts out with symptoms similar to a common cold, including runny nose, coughing, sneezing, fever, body and muscle aches; but it can quickly escalate to wheezing and cause difficulty breathing in those infected.

Infants, children and teens are the most likely to contract the virus due to a lack of immunity to similar viruses. Children with no historical asthmatic indications are reportedly experiencing symptoms such as wheezing. However, children with a history of asthma are at a significantly higher risk for developing severe respiratory illness caused by the virus.

There is no cure for the illness, but over-the-counter medications may be helpful. Parents and caregivers should look for signs of wheezing, difficulty eating or speaking, or blueness around the lips; and should particularly be watchful with asthmatic children as symptoms can develop unexpectedly. Should severe symptoms develop, hospitalization may be necessary.

Since the illness is likely spread through coughing, sneezing, or touching contaminated surfaces, healthy hygiene is encouraged – such as washing hands for at least 20 seconds – and avoid touching the face, especially the eyes, nose and mouth. Refrain from sharing drinks or eating utensils, and disinfect items frequently touched such as toys, door knobs, and light switches.

The CDC is continuing to collect information from states to better understand and assess the situation of EV-D68 and the respiratory illness caused by this virus.

For more information about the Enterovirus 68, visit http://www.cdc.gov.

 

Welcome Chino Preserve!

The Eastvale Community News has expanded distribution to include the Chino Preserve. The Preserve has previously been included in bulk delivery to the Community Center, but we are now delivering door to door.

You can check out the latest Chino area news on the Neighbors Page, as well as see what your other Eastvale neighbors are up to throughout this publication.

For more information and additional news, visit anapr.com, and Facebook.com/EastvaleCommunityNews. For editorial submissions and advertising rates, email editor@anapr.com.

 

The Preserve at Chino is a master-planned community of over 5,000 acres of former and existing farm and dairy property. Located near the Chino Airport, south of Kimball Avenue, north of State Route 71, west of Hellman Avenue and east of Euclid Avenue, this beautiful area was annexed by the City of Chino in 2003.

Tree-lined residential areas with walkable neighborhoods include parks and outstanding public and private amenities.

The Preserve is in immediate proximity to an ecological habitat and nature trail protecting a variety of native animal and plant species, including the burrowing owl and the golden eagle.    

 

 

Quality Comes First At Peterson Auto Repair

BY K.P. SANDER

peterson-auto-repair-center-walnut

Peterson Auto Repair Center is located at 3900-B Valley Boulevard, in the Big Valley Industrial Park. They can be reached at (909) 598-3881.

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

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

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

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

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

Located at 3900-B Valley Boulevard in the City of Walnut, Peterson Auto Repair Center is open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. They can be reached at (909) 598-3881. Mention their ad (see page 10 of this publication) and get an oil change for just $21.99 (plus tax and fees).

Eastvale Community Foundation (ECF) Hangs New Military Banners

By Jennifer Madrigal

 

Eastvale – The Eastvale Community Foundation (ECF) has begun the process of ordering and hanging new Military banners in the City. They recently replaced all the old mountings on 43 poles with heavy duty, hinged hardware that will help support the banners through our strong winds; and they removed all the broken banner arms. They also adjusted all the banners – including nine new tributes – to the height of 14 feet from the street. This adjusted height should eliminate the possibility of trucks hitting the lower arms.

The ECF has hired the Dekra-Lite company to produce the banners. The new material consists of two banners sewn together to provide extra durability.

Greg Coker – a recently retired Army Master Sergeant and new ECF board member – is now managing the program. While some of the details of the program are still being finalized, applications for the banners are available on the City’s website.

The ECF will be replacing banners previously removed due to damage, provided the individual is still in active military duty (which is the qualifier for all banners).

While the replacement of all previously removed banners will take some time to be mounted, the ECF is hoping to complete installations every few months. Going forward, newly approved banners will be set up with the next scheduled installation, once manufacturing is completed.

The ECF is very excited to be handling this program. “Honoring our military personnel is something that we are passionate about. Seeing all the nice, neat banners hanging proudly along Archibald fills my heart with pride,” said ECF Executive Director, Sharyn Link.

For more information about the Military Banner Program visit http://www.eastvaleca.gov.

 

Walnut: 18th Annual Teddy Bear Tea

BY CECELIA YEH AND GAYLE PACHECO

 

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation is in the process of planning our 18th Annual Teddy Bear Tea, an event dedicated to recognizing the teachers and staff of the Walnut Valley Unified School District. The actual event will take place on Sat., Nov. 15, at the Royal Vista Golf Club.

A highlight of this year’s Tea will be the honoring of our 2013-2014 WVUSD Teachers and Classified Employee’s of the Year. This program recognizes educators and classified employees selected by their peers for living up to the school districts motto of “Kids First”. In addition to the recognition, this year’s Tea will feature a lovely luncheon, silent and live auctions, and a Raffle of truly delightful “Themed” Teddy Bear baskets. The goal of the event is to raise over $20,000 in funds to support “mini-grants” for the teachers and schools.

The Educational Foundation is passionate about our event this year. This is the marquee event for the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation, which, over the years, has funded over 500 grants to teachers for innovative classroom projects. Last year, a total of 51 grants were awarded which enabled our creative educators to demonstrate their gift for teaching by creating new ways to enrich student learning.  They included a variety of projects, including class sets of novels/books, math and science center supplies, field trips, classroom cameras, scanners, printers, CDs, foreign language books, cooking supplies, touch screen monitors, musical instruments, supplies for school nurse’s office, iPod Touch, materials for a vegetable garden, and library resources.

This year our Tea will feature a Souvenir Program in which you and your business may place an advertisement. Each ad page that we fill equates to one mini-grant funded. Please join the Educational Foundation in making this dream a reality. Every advertisement is substantial and will go a long way in the classrooms of our WVUSD schools.

If you have any questions about our tea or how to purchase your advertisement, please contact our donations chair, Cindy Ruiz, at (909) 973-9677 or at RuizsPeaces@msn.com. Information about the Tea may also be found on our Educational Foundation website at: www.wvef.educ.us/.

 

Chino: Man Arrested For Lewd Acts

Staff Reports

 

Chino – At approximately midnight on Tues., Sept. 30, a Chino Police Department patrol unit approached a parked vehicle at Mountain View Park, at 13351 Mountain Avenue. Upon contact, officers witnessed two individuals in the vehicle. The occupants were identified as Emmilio Segovia, a 24-year old Chino resident, and an unidentified 15-year old minor from Chino.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Segovia used a social networking site to connect with the victim and lure him to the park with the intent of engaging in sexual acts.

Segovia was arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center for oral copulation of a person under 18, contact with a minor with the intent to commit sexual acts and arranging to meet a minor for the purpose of committing sexual acts with a prior sex offense.

This is an ongoing investigation, anyone with information is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

 

City of Hope Blood Drive

When: Thurs., Oct. 16, 12:45 to 7 p.m.

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

Contact: Call (909) 861-2740 for appointments, and be sure to bring your ID to the event.

 

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

When: October 17, 18, 24, and 25. All shows are at 7 p.m.

Where: Diamond Bar High School Theatre, 21400 E. Pathfinder Road, Diamond Bar.

Details: The Diamond Bar High School Theatre Arts Department will stage Shakespeare’s play in a contemporary setting, the love-peace movement of the late 1960s. Tickets may be purchased online at www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama (Adults $11/Students $9), or at the door (Adults $13/Students $11).

 

Alumni Day at Mt. SAC

When: Saturday, October 18, 1 to 9 p.m.

Where: Mt. San Antonio College

Details: Celebrate Mt. SAC’s more than one million alumni with a full day of activities including a presentation by alumnae Kim and Ericka Harrison, famed television writers for “Criminal Minds” and the new hit show “How to Get Away with Murder;” agriculture and wildlife sanctuary tours; planetarium shows; and a music faculty concert in the Feddersen Recital Hall. The day’s event will be capped off with the top-ranked Mt. SAC football team taking on Citrus College at 6 p.m., preceded by a pre-game fly-over by the college’s nationally respected flying team and a reception with a barbecue, music, and lots of Mountie spirit.

Contact: Call (909) 274-5443, or visit mtsac.edu/alumni/alumniday.

 

42nd Annual Rowland Heights Buckboard Parade and Festival

When: Saturday, October 18, 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Kiwanis Pancake Breakfast – 7 a.m., at Bell Memorial Church (1747 Nogales Street, Rowland Heights, $5 per person; Parade – 9 a.m., at the corner of Nogales and Colima, concluding at Rowland Heights County Park; Festival – 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the park.

Details: The parade will feature a variety of local school bands and student performance groups, community organizations, equestrian groups, floats, and the Wells Fargo Stage Coach. The Family Festival will have more than 45 booths offering handmade arts and crafts, food, community information and services.

Contact: Visit www.buckboarddaysparade.org, or email buckboardparade@hotmail.com.

 

World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra Concert and Dinner

When: Saturday, Oct. 19; 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dinner at 5 p.m.

Where: Walnut High School Performing Arts Center, 400 N. Pierre Road, Walnut

Details: The Walnut High School Jazz Orchestra will share the stage with the legendary Glenn Miller Orchestra for an evening of musical memories. There will also be a BBQ dinner in between shows. Proceeds from this very special event will benefit the Walnut High School Instrumental Music Department. All seats $30; BBQ Dinner $15

Contact: For more information call, (909) 594-BAND; for tickets visit http://www.seatyourself.biz/walnutmusic.

 

Bark For Life 5K

When: Saturday, October 18, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Boys Republic High School, 1907 Boys Republic Drive, Chino Hills

Details: The American Cancer Society Bark For Life honors the care-giving qualities of canine companions. Bring your best Canine Friend and join the non-competitive walk around the track, followed by demos, games, contests, awards and dog adoptions. $25 per dog; $5 per person. Raise funds and awareness in the fight against cancer.

Contact: Visit www.relayforlife.org/barkchinoca, or email Jennifer Rudin at bflchinoeventchair@gmail.com.

 

Annual Ghoster Park Halloween Hunt

When: Saturday, October 25, 7 to 10 p.m.

Where: Galster Park, 1620 E. Aroma Drive, West Covina

Details: The City of West Covina and the San Gabriel Mountains Regional Conservancy dare you to be scared at a night of spooky fun! Brave men will cry out for their ‘mummies’ on the Trail of Terror. There will also be Halloween activities, a costume contest, and other Halloween-inspired events. This is a free family event for the entire community.

Contact: Call the Community Services Department at (626) 919-6966, or visit http://www.westcovina.org

 

Free Intervention Information Sessions

When: Third Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m.

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

Details: Free information sessions about the intervention process, a powerful tool to combat alcoholism and addition. Open to the public, space is limited and reservations are recommended.

Contact: Aurora Charter Oak Hospital, (626) 859-5269, or visit http://www.charteroakhospital.com.

 

Free ESL and Citizenship Classes

When: Monday through Thursday, 9 to 11 a.m.; or Monday through Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: 2100 Lerona Avenue, Rowland Heights

Details: Rowland Adult & Community Education is now offering free English as a Second Language and Citizenship courses to adult students this summer due to a grant received from the Majestic Reality Foundation in the City of Industry.

Contact: Call (626) 965-5975, or visit http://race.rowland.k12.ca.us.

 

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Bookstore Blowout

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

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

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

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

 

Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second 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

 

DB Community Garden Space

When: Ongoing; daylight hours.

Where: United Church of Christ, 2335 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., Diamond Bar

Details: The Diamond Bar United Church of Christ is progressing on their Community Garden space, located behind the church. Residents interested in developing their own garden space, or helping with this project, are encouraged to visit the Labyrinth on the hilltop. This is also a wonderful location for reflection, and enjoying some peaceful moments in your day.

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

 

Corona: 7th Annual Crossroads Haunted Village

STAFF REPORTS

 

Corona – The Crossroads Haunted Village is quickly becoming one of Southern California’s top Haunted Locations. The Village is the home of three permanent Haunted Houses: The Chambers of the Mausoleum, Labyrinth of Lost Relics and The Asylum at Coffin Creek. The Crossroads Haunted Village also offers the Nightmare Harvest (haunted) Trail, and The Shady Hollow Hay Ride.

Crossroads is also excited to present the returning Pandemonium Magic Show (a 30-minute Illusion Show in an outdoor theater). Also featured will be the Dark Shadow Market, with vendors selling assorted wares, as well as food and hot/cold, non-alcoholic beverages.

There are two different ways to pay for the attractions. Single attraction tickets are available for $13, or you can purchase a haunted attraction package, good for all attractions (except the Pandemonium Magic Show) at a discounted price of $33. There is also a VIP Pass to avoid the long lines, bringing the total package cost to just $49. Pandemonium Magic Show tickets are $5; and Parking is $5 (cash only).

This delightfully haunting experience takes place Friday and Saturday nights, October 10-11; 17-18; 24-25; and Thursday night, Oct. 30, and Friday, Halloween night. The hours of each haunting are from 7 p.m. to midnight – with the Pandemonium Magic Show at 8 and 9:30 p.m. Dare to be scared at Crossroads Riverview Park, 14600 Baron Drive, in Corona. More information is available at http://www.crhaunts.com.

 

Walnut: City Council Recap October 8, 2014

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

walnut-valley-womens-club

City Council naming the Walnut Valley Women’s Club and Cheryl Linnborn as Grand Marshals for the Walnut Family Festival.

Walnut – Walnut’s City council started slightly behind schedule on Oct. 8 following a study session concerning the City’s proposed Aquatic Center, but quickly convened into regular business with proclamations for the Walnut Family Festival’s Grand Marshals, National Fire Prevention Week and various resolutions.

Mayor Nancy Tragarz started the meeting with recognition for the Walnut Valley Women’s Club and member Cheryl Linnborn for their years of effort and excellence. Tragarz and the other council members thanked the members of the Women’s Club as one of the longest standing clubs in the City and Linnborn’s tireless efforts for helping the Walnut Family Festival and Christmas Tree Lighting through the years.

“Your smiling face will always be appreciated in Walnut,” Tragarz said.

Tragarz then proclaimed October as Fire Prevention Month, putting an emphasis on keeping working fire alarms in all homes.

“Change batteries in your smoke alarm,” LA County Fire Chief Mario De Fino said. “They do save lives.”

Public comments largely focused on the changes to the Brookside neighborhood, with several residents asking the Council to stop housing developments that would further diminish the City’s equestrian trails.

The council then went on to approve the minutes for the Aug. 13 study session meeting and Sept. 10 City Council and Walnut Housing Authority minutes, along with the second reading of Ordinance No. 14-04 for establishing provisions for employee housing.

The Council then moved on to its consent calendar for the approval of claims and demands in the amount of $727,862.35, the authorization of certain records pursuant to Resolution No. 01-18, an award for a CalSense irrigation controller equipment and installation bid to ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance, Inc., and an award for street light improvements on Grand Avenue and Arcadia Way bid to MSL Electric, Inc.

Tragarz pulled Item 6 on the calendar, pertaining to a contract with Morse Planning Group for an environmental impact report for the proposed Brookside Specific Plan. Community Development Director, Tom Weiner, mentioned that the item only pertains to an environmental impact report and has nothing to do with the number of houses being developed.

Council Member, Mary Su, questioned Morse Planning Group as the agency to provide the environmental impact report and asked whether or not the land developers could choose two or three other agencies to do the report.

Collette Morse, AICP from Morse Planning Group, spoke to the council members, listing her years of professionalism with handling environmental impact reports and the services she could provide to the City.

After hearing from Morse, the Council agreed to table the item for a future meeting after seeing a resume and list of qualifications from Morse before they are officially hired to provide the environmental impact report.

Following the Council’s announcements, they adjourned into closed session with plans to meet again on Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. in the City Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

Eastvale: Eleanor Roosevelt High School’s Cross-Country Team

ERHS XC team Eleanor Roosevelt High School’s Cross-Country Team attended the prestigious Stanford University Cross Country Invitational. They did an amazing job with the boys’ team placing 10th, and the girls’ team placing 4th. Great job, ERHS!

 

Eastvale: Getting Healthy!

On Saturday, October 25th, 2014 be sure to come by the Healthy Eastvale Fair!  The event is 6:30am-11:00am at the Eleanor Roosevelt High School at 7447 Scholar Way in Eastvale.  Activities include health screening, family fitness fun and information from local health and fitness vendors.

healthy-eastvale-fair-2014

Diamond Bar: Council Recap October 7

BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR.

Diamond Bar City Hall

Diamond Bar City Hall
(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

Diamond Bar – At their Oct. 7 meeting, the Diamond Bar City Council heard from the public and staff on various issues including updates on the Grand Avenue Beautification Project, homelessness in the area, climate issues, development and water conservation, and more.

The meeting kicked off with a presentation of a City Tile to former Planning Commissioner, Jack Shah.

“You’ve done a great job. You’re moving on to other locations and we want to thank you for your service to the City of Diamond Bar, and we’re going to miss you,” said Mayor Carol Herrera.

“Thank you so much for your trust. You have trusted me for so many years and given me the opportunity to serve this community. It is one of the best communities I’ve lived in. The staff is great, they’ve always supported us and always provided us with great advice and always directed us in making the right decision,” said the departing Shah, who resigned his position effective Aug. 13.

As part of the evening’s consent calendar, Herrera appointed Jen “Fred” Mahlke to fill the vacancy left by Shah. During the City Manager portion of the meeting, Public Works Director, David Liu, presented an update on the Grand Avenue Project. Liu said project plans include upgrading the medians and parkways with special design elements to add visual interest and highlight some of the City’s local history, and pedestrian and access lighting. The locations discussed as part of the project include the intersections of Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard.

According to Liu, on April 1, the staff presented final concept plans to the Council. Final designs for the plans were approved by the Council on July 1. Design plans and specs were then submitted to Cal Trans on July 30. Cal Trans notified the City on Sept. 10 that the plans and specs had been approved.

Liu added the City is currently working with a landscape architect to design and build a gateway monument at the easterly City limit line, along the intersection down Grand Avenue. Work is to be finished by early November, with a contract awarded in January 2015 including plans to finish in April or May of 2015.

During public comments, Theresa Lee, a member of the Country Estates Homeowners Association thanked City officials for providing residents with more information on the proposed Millennium Development.

Kurt Nelson, a consultant representing the developer, said he did not know why there was so much controversy and unhappiness about the project. Nelson added he did hear many people who seemed to be uninformed about the facts of the project. Nelson said he would be very happy to meet with any Diamond Bar Country Estate homeowners in the future to let them know about costs, and other concerns the association members might have.

“I think communication and getting the facts out there is key,” said Nelson.

In other matters, Stephen Fomba, Program Manager for the SGV Consortium on Homelessness – a non-profit organization dedicated to homelessness in the San Gabriel Valley – introduced himself to the Council and updated them on the homeless situation in the area.

Fomba, whose organization is tasked with conducting a bi-annual homeless count in the San Gabriel Valley, said all of L.A. County is moving to a coordinated entry system, using a tool to identify, assess and link homeless individuals and families with appropriate housing.

“It’s the best way toward ending homelessness in the U.S., by calling for the City to partner with them,” Fomba told the Council, adding that his organization will be coordinating a homeless summit in Pasadena on Nov. 13, and invited the council and community to attend.

Fomba said the summit usually attracts 500 to 600 attendees in Pasadena. The nonprofit also adopted a proclamation which other cities have already adopted in the SGV, asking for the establishment of a homeless awareness week in mid November to coincide with the national homeless and hunger awareness week.

Other members of the public asked for the Council to provide an update on issues such as water conversation, climate issues and development, asking if the City could look into bringing in smaller businesses for people to congregate, and get together, as opposed to big corporations and retail chains like K-Mart. To this end, a new Facebook group known as Diamond Bar Buzz has been put together for people in the City to discuss these social issues.

City Manager James DeStefano, said the City has specifically cut water usage by 23 percent in the last billing statement since formal drought conditions were adopted by the SGV Water District, and added that the City continues to look at ways for individuals and local businesses to save water in light of pending water rate increases likely to take place in the near future.

De Stefano said that he agreed with speakers who asked for a center for community gathering.

“That is exactly the type of product we’d like to see in Diamond Bar. There are very limited choices in Diamond Bar. Land is the toughest component; we just don’t have a lot of land and we don’t have willing property owners of existing properties that are interested in tearing down and starting again, redeveloping those properties. We have some choices on some vacant lands, but those are also a challenge,” said DeStefano.

In other actions, by a 4-0 vote (with Jack Tanaka excused for illness), the Council approved a packed consent calendar including the ratification of a check register totaling more than $2 million approving contract amendments for on-call traffic engineering services from various consultants, and approving a notice of completion for the Median Modification project on Diamond Bar Boulevard at Kiowa Crest Drive, among other matters.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council is scheduled for Oct. 21 at 6:30 p.m. at the AQMD/Government Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive. There will also be a time capsule dedication on Sat., Oct. 25, at 4 p.m., at the same location.

 

 

Eastvale: Rocks and Rubies

As a new feature to the Eastvale Community News, we want to highlight the some of the good things, and a few of the frustrations that happen around Eastvale.

Do you know a person or a business that has stepped above and beyond to make the community a better place? Have you experienced something that you would like to change?

 

The following incidents are shared by members of our community, and are anonymous:

  • RUBIES to Eleanor Roosevelt High School students, for choosing the beautiful Emily Huong as your homecoming Queen! You have shown the world what kind of heart this community has.
  • RUBIES to the kind lady at Albertson’s, who randomly bought me flowers and gave them to me. I was having a horrible day and you brought a smile to my face.
  • RUBIES to the kind stranger that took the time to tell me my disabled son was a “handsome, special little lad”. You made my heart smile.
  • RUBIES to the Pet Patrol, for taking such good care of my dogs in this ungodly heat!
  • RUBIES to the all the Eastvale Football teams who have played so hard in this heat! We love supporting you guys!
  • RUBIES to the awesome guy in the black Chevy who paid for my Starbucks! I returned the favor and passed it on. You started a great trend that day.
  • RUBIES to the kids I saw picking up the trash along Limonite. Great job, boys!
  • ROCKS to the grey Honda who almost took out a bicyclist by Harada. Slow down! There are kids and adults that want to live.
  • ROCKS to the landscaper who was spraying my lawn and making my poor dogs suffer after he swore he wasn’t doing anything.
  • ROCKS to the gardener who just stopped showing up to take care of our lawn. Good customer service goes a long way.

If you are interested in sending in a “rock” or a “ruby,” please email them to Jennifer Madrigal at Jenniferanapr@hotmail.com.

Walnut’s Water Park Schematic Plan

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

Walnut-aquatic-park-city-presentation

City officials meeting with Aquatic Design Group Vice President, Justin Caron, as he presents a plan for the City’s proposed Aquatic Park.

Walnut – City officials met with a representative from the Aquatic Design Group on Wed., Oct. 8 for a study session event, outlining the schematic plans for the City’s proposed Aquatic Center and Amphitheater.

The Aquatic Center, planned for the 20000 block of Amar Road off Alta Sierra Road near Walnut Ranch Park, has been a long-time desire for some residents who have called for a municipal pool site in Walnut for years.

More than ten residents attended the meeting, where Aquatic Design Group Vice President, Justin Caron, outlined various ideas for what the park could host, including slides, three pools, a water spray park, locker rooms, an amphitheater, reception areas and more. Furthermore, the plan outlined 333 parking spaces to ensure space for the lots even when the pools, park and amphitheater are in use.

Mary Rooney, Community Services Director, said the flexibility of the slides and splash areas would be ideal for Walnut’s weather, with easy maintenance, fast ways to drain the excess amenities during the winter months, and the ability to refill and staff the slides and splash areas if a heat wave hits the City.

Rooney said that while the entire basis of the study session was to show a rough idea of what the park would look like, the plan’s outline is a good enough to show the public and City Council for further deliberation.

“Now you have a concept,” Rooney said. “Now you have something to walk with to show your constituents…nothing is set in stone, but we would like your feedback.”

Caron said the total estimated cost for the entire project would cost the City $19.9 million, with a breakdown of $3.6 million for site work, $532,000 for utilities, $3.8 million for construction of buildings, $600,000 for the amphitheater, $4.7 million for the pools, and an estimated $6.7 million for contractors, insurance, bonds and construction contingencies.

When pressed by councilmember Eric Ching, Caron suggested an estimated general admission fee of $5 to $7 for adult, with the possibility of cheaper rates for Walnut residents and higher fees for non-residents. However, he mentioned that the City can choose to set admission prices at whatever they wanted when the project reached its completion.

Councilmember, Tony Cartagena, said he was “very excited” at the thought of the City’s plans coming to fruition, stating that the planned amenities are extensive and impressive.

Attendees were mostly optimistic about the project, yet most of the hesitance from residents centered on parking and traffic studies.

Walnut resident, Claudine Stines, said she has been a supporter for the Aquatic Center for years, but that the latest schematics might not have sufficient parking for all the proposed features.

Walnut resident, Gary Gidcumb, said that while he liked the idea of Walnut having a recreational pool, he would like to see a traffic study done for the area to ensure a safe traffic flow. Gidcumb described the schematic plans as “too much,” and that if the City scaled back some of its ideas, it would be more likely to complete its long-time project.

“I’d like to see a pool in Walnut,” Gidcumb said. “Hopefully, before I’m 100 years old.”

 

October Is Fire Prevention Month

Staff Reports

 

Chino Valley – The Los Angeles County Fire Department, along with other public safety advocates, will be reminding everyone about fire safety during Fire Prevention Month.  Although the week of October 5 – 11 has been proclaimed, “National Fire Prevention Week for 2014,” the Fire Department and the Board of Supervisors are proclaiming the month of October as “Fire Prevention Month.”

This year’s theme set by the National Fire Protection Association – “Working Smoke Alarms Save Lives – Test Yours Every Month!” – emphasizes how important it is to ensure that smoke alarms function properly by checking them once a month.

The Chino Valley Fire District and Chino Valley Fire District Board of Directors invites the public and media to visit Fire Station 61 and Training Center (located at 5092 Schaefer Avenue in Chino) during the annual Fire Prevention Month Open House on Sat., Oct. 11, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Firefighters will conduct various demonstrations throughout the day, including a presentation where firefighters highlight multiple uniforms and protective gear they wear to demonstrate the various capabilities and specialty teams of the Chino Valley Fire District staffs.

There will be static displays of Fire District equipment and units from partner agencies. Children will be able to go through a Junior Firefighter academy and the public can tour Fire Station 61 every 30 minutes throughout the day. Visitors will also be invited to tour the inside of the Training Center to learn about the Emergency Medical Services the Fire District provides on a daily basis to the communities they serve.

Representatives from several organizations and agencies will be hosting information booths for the public. They include agencies, departments and organizations from the cities of Chino and Chino Hills.

There will be free popcorn and snow cones for everyone to enjoy. Participating in the various activities available at the Open House is completely free.

“The Fire District’s Annual Open House is a great way for the community to interact with their Fire District and to learn about proactive steps they can take to keep their families and homes fire-safe,” said Fire Chief, Tim Shackelford.

In addition to honoring Fire Prevention Month, Chino Valley Firefighters will be raising awareness for Breast Cancer through a pink t-shirt fundraiser during the month of October. The shirts are available for men and women, at just $15, with all proceeds going toward Breast Cancer research. Order your shirt at CVPinkshirt2014@gmail.com, or pick one up at the Open House on Oct. 11.

For more information on the annual Open House, follow the Chino Valley Fire District on social media, or visit the website at www.chinovalleyfire.org.

 

Ontario: Farm Fresh Eggs At Voortman’s Ranch

BY K.P. SANDER

Voortman's Egg Ranch

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Stop by any time Monday through Saturday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., and see their ad on Page 8.

 

 

Diamond Bar: Local Kmart To Close

STAFF REPORTS

 

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar Kmart, located at 249 S. Diamond Bar Boulevard, is closing its doors. According to the store manager at that location, the last day of business will be conducted on Sun., Dec. 7. The manager further states that all sales to reduce inventory have already gone into effect, and signs advertising up to 80% off have been posted. Post closure, all remaining inventory will be reverted back to the corporation for distribution to other Kmart locations.

Revenue losses are suspected at the helm of the closure, although calls to Kmart’s corporate office in Illinois were not returned. A loss of customer traffic is sure to fuel some of the conjecture.

Yelp comments on this particular Kmart store consistently report dismal and rude customer service, with a common rating of only one star. One customer in particular wrote, “I wish I could give ZERO stars. This Kmart never fails to disappoint. Don’t expect any customer service here, because you won’t find any in this store. I’ve walked out angry and disappointed multiple times…”

If customer services is not your top priority, you still may be able to find some significant savings between now and December 7.

 

Redemption

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

 

One day, my friend told me a story about a freshman in high school named David that touched me so deeply. This is what I call, Redemption:

David saw a kid named Ron walking home from school. It looked like Ron was carrying home all of his books, which was strange because classes aren’t all on the same day. He thought to himself, “Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday? He must really be a nerd.” But he shrugged his shoulders and went on.

As he was walking, David saw a bunch of kids running toward Ron, knocking his books out of his arms and tripping him. Ron’s glasses went flying and landed in the grass. When David handed the glasses to him, he looked up he saw this terrible sadness in Ron’s eyes. Somehow he felt his pain.

David said, “Those guys are jerks. They really should get lives.”

Ron looked at him and lowly said, “Thanks.”

There was a slight smile on Ron’s face. It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude. David helped him pick up his books, and as it turned out, Ron lived near David. They talked all the way home and Ron turned out to be a pretty cool kid.

Over the next four years, Ron and David became best friends. When they were seniors, they began to think about college. Ron decided on Georgetown, and David was going to Duke. They knew that they’d always be friends, and that the miles would never be a problem.

Ron became valedictorian of their class, and had to prepare a speech for graduation. David was so glad that he didn’t have to get up there and speak.

On graduation day Ron looked great. He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school. All the girls loved him. David was just jealous. He could see that Ron was nervous about his speech, so David smacked him on the back and said, “Hey, big guy, you’ll be great!” He looked at David with one of those looks (that really grateful one) and smiled.

As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began.

“Graduation is a time to thank those who have helped you make it through those tough years; your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach…but mostly, your friends. I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I’m going to tell you a story.”

David looked at his friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day they met. Ron talked of the day he had cleaned out his locker. He talked of how he was distraught about his life. He talked about how lonely he was. So lonely, he had planned to kill himself that weekend. But he didn’t, because his new friend unknowingly stepped in. He showed kindness. He showed compassion. He showed, by his actions, that life is worth the struggle. Ron looked hard at David and gave him a little smile.

“Thankfully, I was saved,” David continued. “My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable.”

David heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told them about his weakest moment. He saw Ron’s mom and dad looking at him and smile with that same grateful smile. Not until that moment did David realize its depth.

It was then that David realized how important it is to never underestimate the power of one’s actions. With one small gesture you can change a person’s life – for the better, or for the worse.

The most compelling element about the story of Ron and David’s friendship is how it relates to so many lives. Personally, I’ve hoped that somewhere within my past that I’ve been a “David” to someone I’ve met. And what fills my spirit with even more emotion is that I know I’ve felt like a “Ron” many times. What perplexes me is that I don’t know which role I’ve felt more often.

Someone once said, “Friends are angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly.” To so many, each day, this is true. I’ve always valued my friends with depth and sincerity. I’ve always believed in the importance of being friends, and the importance of having friends.

As the story continues, it emphasizes that there is no beginning or end. Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. But today is a gift. This reminds me that giving the ultimate gift of friendship is what I call the inner spirit of your heart, and that gives us the true feeling of redemption.

Eastvale Mourns Loss

STAFF REPORTS

 

Hundreds come together in great sadness at the Candlelight Vigil on Sun., Oct. 5, at Eleanor Roosevelt High School (Photo Courtesy: Eastvale News)

Hundreds come together in great sadness at the Candlelight Vigil on Sun., Oct. 5, at Eleanor Roosevelt High School (Photo Courtesy: Eastvale News)

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale mourns the loss of four beloved teens, and a Corona man, who all perished in a three-car accident on Fri., Oct. 3.

Nathaniel Marin, Andrew Anthony Deleon, Nathan Dominguez, and Alex Horta – all 2013 graduates of Eleanor Roosevelt High School – and Luis Ayala Mendoza, 47, of Corona, were involved in a collision on nearby Pine Avenue in Chino (near Chino-Corona Road) at around 8:45 p.m.

Although the accident is still under investigation, reports says that the Chevrolet truck the teens were riding in struck a rail and caught fire, causing two additional vehicles to collide into them. The driver of the third vehicle had minor injuries.

Broken-hearted loved ones all came together to remember these men at a Candlelight Vigil on Sun., Oct. 5, with hundreds of people honoring their lives, missing their friends, and saying good-bye.

 

Weather Conditions

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

When people ask me about the weather in California, I usually try to explain it like this. It is a contest between the desert and the ocean.  The hot dry winds push in from the north and east, and the cool ocean breezes push back from the south and west.

We are caught in a tug-of-war between these two imposing forces. Fortunately, the ocean usually dominates our weather and as a result we get morning fog and cool afternoon breezes.

But when the hot, dry Santa Ana winds prevail and the heat builds up, the air conditioning bills skyrocket. We all felt the effects of the heat during the past few weeks.  And, we will see the increased electric bills in another few weeks.

My wife and I grew up in Arizona.  The past few days felt like we were back in Arizona.  The days were really hot and the evenings provided little relief.  Everyone you talked to would comment about the heat. In the Phoenix area it is not uncommon to have over 100 days a year that are over 100 degrees. The low temperature at night often does not get below 90 degrees. It stays hot all summer.

There are a lot of things that I do miss about Arizona, but one thing I do not miss is the long, hot summer.

I heard the story of a pastor who was asked to help start a new church in Arizona.  After thinking about the invitation for a while, he replied, “There are three reasons that I think that God does not want me to move to Arizona…June, July and August!”

Someone said that God uses adversity and discomfort to get our attention.  The hot, dry weather we have experienced certainly got our attention.  It reminds us of how we expect comfort and convenience.  It reminds us of how fortunate we are to have air-conditioned homes and cars, offices and classrooms.

I hope that the weather is a little cooler by the time you are reading this article.  Let me encourage you to be thankful for the comforts you enjoy and don’t complain when the weather warms up for a few days. Just remember, you could be living in Arizona!

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.