Category Archives: News By City

Orange County: Major Layoffs At Broadcom

STAFF REPORTS

 

Irvine – Orange County chip manufacturer, Broadcom, has plans to cut at least 240 jobs at its Irvine headquarters. A plan was recently announced to eliminate 20 percent of the technological company’s total staff, including 630 throughout California and more in North America, Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

Broadcom, whose wireless and broadband communication business was founded in 1991, has been a long-time supplier to Apple, and their chips have been a component of iPhones. Their total revenue in 2012 was over $8 billion, and in 2013 they were listed as number 327 on the Fortune 500. However, the company has been unable to compete with emerging firms in Asia, and techno-giant, Qualcomm, in San Diego.

The layoffs will save Broadcom an estimated $700 million annually, and they will continue to manufacture Internet-driven devices used in home appliances, thermostats, and mobile technologies. Nearly all of the layoffs will occur on Sept. 26, with the balance taking place in early November.

 

 

Eastvale: Support The Eastvale Community Foundation

BY SARAH ARMIJO

 

eastvale-community-foundation-logoEastvale – Raising money, having fun, and getting the community involved is what the Eastvale Community Foundation (ECF) is all about. The ECF is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization made up completely of volunteers, created by the Eastvale City Council in 2011 as a way of helping to assist with needs throughout the City.

The mission of the ECF is to strengthen the Eastvale community by collaborating with the City Council to identify needs and issues, and encourage the volunteering of time, talent, and resources.

The ECF is committed to serving the Eastvale Community, and has provided over $50,000 in youth scholarships for Eastvale youth sports and art programs in the last two years.

According to Sharyn Link – who has been an ECF Board Member for quite some time, as well as Executive Director of the foundation for the last year – the ECF donated scholarships to approximately 100 children in 20 different programs this year.

You can help support the ECF’s actions by attending or sponsoring their Second Annual Golf Tournament coming up on August 15, which will benefit programs in the City of Eastvale. The tournament will be held at the Los Serranos Country Club and the cost for this event is only $125 per person, although teams save $50 if they sign up as a foursome. The price includes 18 holes of championship golf, dinner reception and a few surprises.

This year, the primary goal of the golf tournament is to support the Military Banner Program, according to Link. “We want to raise enough money to provide all new hardware so the banners can withstand the Eastvale winds.  We also want to replace all of the banners that have been damaged or are missing.  Our Military personnel deserve our highest respect and honor and we plan to make our Military Banner Program show them that Eastvale is proud of them and thanks each and every one of them,” said Link.

Last year, the ECF raised over $20,000 at their 1st Annual Golf Tournament and their goal this year is to raise $30,000.  All proceeds from this event, and all their fund raisers, stay in Eastvale.

“Our long term goal is to help provide monument signs and way finding signs for our City.  We want people to know where Eastvale is when they drive into town,” said Link.

“I would like to encourage everyone to support the Eastvale Community Foundation throughout the year, but especially now for the golf tournament.  We can use sponsors, golfers, and if you don’t golf and can’t make it out during the day, come to the dinner in the evening.  We have a no host cocktail hour commencing at 5 p.m. and dinner will be at 6 p.m.  We have some amazing raffle prizes, silent and live auction items and a few surprises thrown in this year. It is a very fun evening and we encourage residents to come join the fun,” said Link.

Nine amazing board members have been putting in a lot of hours to put on this year’s golf tournament. According to Link, they also have a Golf Committee consisting of some Eastvale residents who have been helping with the planning of the tournament. On the day of the tournament, Link says that they will need about 40 people helping in order to make it as big of a success as last year’s event.

To sign up, volunteer or become a sponsor, visit the ECF’s website at http://eastvalefoundation.wix.com/eastvalefoundation#!events/coui. You can also reach them at (951) 263-0345. Also, be sure to “like” the ECF on Facebook.

 

 

 

Walnut: West Nile Mosquitoes In Walnut

STAFF REPORTS

 

Walnut – On Fri., July 18, the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District identified two samples of mosquitoes caught in traps at Creekside Park that tested positive for the West Nile Virus (WNV). This is the second finding in San Gabriel Valley over the past several weeks.

According to the SGV Mosquito and Vector Control District – or the Vector Inspectors – WNV is present in the San Gabriel Valley every year. You can help to eradicate this disease from the area by taking an active stance against it through prevention. The Vector Inspectors recommend that you walk around your property and dump out any accumulated water in buckets, barrels, old tires, pots, and other containers. Report any green and stagnant pools, ponds and fountains, as they can breed thousands of mosquitoes weekly; and report all dead birds to www.westnile.ca.gov.

WNV is primarily transmitted from bird to bird by mosquitoes. In some species it is nearly always fatal. The presence of dead birds in a neighborhood is often the first indication of WNV activity.

WNV originated in Africa and was first recognized in the United States in 1999. There is currently no cure; however, most people don’t exhibit any symptoms. Since 2003, there have been more than 4,000 reported infections and 145 deaths in California, according to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), so the threat should be taken seriously. Symptoms include fever, headaches, body aches, skin rashes and nausea, which can present anywhere from five to 15 days after exposure, and can last several days or months.

Popular Creekside Park is the venue for Walnut’s summer concert and movie series, and there are a number of precautions you can take to prevent infection during this event or any outdoor activity.

Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn, and when enjoying warm summer evenings, be sure to wear loose-fitting long pants and sleeves, and shoes and socks. Treating exposed skin areas and outside clothing with repellents containing DEET, Picaridin, and oils of lemon eucalyptus can also be helpful, according to the CDC.

For more information, visit http://www.westnile.ca.gov.

 

14 Candidates Seek Vacant Eastvale Council Seat

BY K.P. SANDER 

Eastvale – There will be a Special Meeting of the Eastvale City Council held this Wed., Aug. 6, at 5 p.m., at Rosa Parks Elementary in the Multi-Purpose Room.  At that time the 14 candidates seeking the vacant City Council seat recently left vacant by Jeff DeGrandpre will be interviewed.

All 14 candidates were required to submit an application package to City Hall by July 24.  Those who met the deadline and qualifications are as follows:

  • Charles Bennett
  • Raul Gutierrez
  • Anwer Khan
  • Clint Lorimore
  • David L. Magsam
  • Cesar Morales
  • Larry F. Oblea
  • Tyrone Spears, Jr.
  • Brandon L. Stuart
  • Joseph M. Tessari
  • William Van Leeuwen
  • Robert F. Vandenheuvel
  • Brandon M. Villalpando
  • Byron G. Woods

At the meeting, candidates will be selected at random to deliver a two-minute opening statement, followed by a set of predetermined questions written by council members.  Candidates waiting to be interviewed will be asked to remain in a separate room until their name is chosen, so as not to give an unfair advantage.  Candidates are able to return to the audience after their interview has been completed. 

Once all candidates have been interviewed, members of the City Council will vote on the appointment.  If a candidate is successfully chosen on Wednesday, that candidate will be sworn in and seated as a member of the Eastvale City Council that very night.

The Eastvale Community News wishes all the candidates the very best of luck!

Los Angeles: Former Rosemead Mayor Sentenced to Prison, Avoids Bribery Charge In Deal With DA

STAFF REPORTS

Los Angeles – The former mayor of the City of Rosemead, John Tran, was sentenced on Mon., July 21, to 21 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to attempted witness tampering and making false statements to FBI agents conducting a corruption investigation. He struck a plea with the DA and avoided the bribery charges. JohnTran2

The United States Attorney’s Office stated that Tran plead guilty late last year to the witness tampering and false statement charges. In a plea agreement filed in United States District Court, Tran acknowledged that he received approximately $38,000 in payments from a developer in exchange for Tran’s promise to help her obtain permits for a project.

The witness tampering resulted from Tran asking the developer to lie to a federal grand jury by denying that he had recently met with Tran or paid Tran any money.

Tran made false statements to the FBI in 2011 when special agents went to his home to conduct an interview and Tran denied receiving anything but campaign contributions from the developer.

Tran was elected to the Rosemead City Council in 2005 and was mayor of Rosemead from 2007 to 2009. He was also a Garvey School Board member prior to winning a council seat in 2005.

In addition to the prison term, the judge ordered Tran to pay $38,000 in restitution, most of which has already been recovered by the FBI.

The case against Tran was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

 

 

Eastvale: National Night Out

You won’t want to miss this year’s National Night Out on Tuesday, August 12, 2014. It’s a great opportunity to get acquainted with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, your neighbors, and the City’s Public Safety Commission.  This is a community event with activities and opportunities to learn more about the fight against crime in your neighborhood. The event will be held at the Eastvale Gateway Target Parking lot at 12471 Limonite Ave in Eastvale. Visit http://www.NNO.org for more information.

National Night Out

Orange County: Man Pleads Guilty To Swindling Doctors

STAFF REPORTS

Santa Ana – An Orange County man plead guilty to defrauding dozens of doctors and others of more than $2 million in separate schemes that promised large returns on investments in the medical and dental fields.

David Rose, 57, of Coto de Caza, appeared in U.S. District Court on Mon., July 21, to face charges of one count of wire fraud and one count of mail fraud, according to a news release from the United States Attorney’s Office.

According to court documents, during a period of over six years that ran through May 2011, Rose solicited physicians to invest in an Irvine company he called M.D. Venture Partners (MDVP) and falsely promised lucrative returns on investments in emerging medical technologies.

In a subsequent scheme, Rose used Technology Innovation Partners (TIP) to solicit dentists and orthodontists to invest, claiming funds would be pooled and invested in a company developing ablation technology that would be used to remove wisdom teeth in children without surgery.

Throughout both schemes, investor funds were misused, with Rose using victims’ money for personal expenses. According to a plea agreement filed in court, Rose used investor funds to pay $7,500-a-month rent for a house in Coto de Caza, college tuition, luxury vehicles, an $80,000 Sea Ray boat and shares in the Green Bay Packers. The investigation revealed that no money was invested by either MDVP or TIP.

In the MDVP scheme, Rose caused approximately 32 victims to lose more than $900,000, according to court documents. In the TIP scheme, 45 victims lost more than $1.4 million.

Rose was arrested in May 2013 and has remained in custody since that time. He is scheduled to be sentenced November 24, and faces a maximum statutory sentence of 40 years in federal prison.

The case against Rose is the product of an ongoing investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

 

 

 

Eastvale: Why Go to Church?

BY PASTOR ROBERT JEWETT

Pastor Robert Jewett Word of Truth Community ChurchWhile many people go to church for varying reasons, many others do not go to church for just as many reasons. Biblically speaking, it is the body of believers who are the church…not the building where they gather. This begs the question, “Why should anyone go to church?”

While many will argue, “I don’t have to go to church to be a Christian,” the reality is that going to church should strengthen our faith and encourage us to walk as Jesus walked. The Bible says, “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near,” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Hence, going to church is about being built up in the Lord.

Going to church gives opportunity for individual believers to be encouraged and to encourage others. With all the cares of this world, it is easy to get our minds focused on anything but the Lord. By going to church, we are instructed in God’s Word, encouraged by fellow believers, and refocused on what truly matters.

For more information about Word of Truth Community Church, visit http://www.wordoftruthcc.com.

Business Feature: Strategic Alliance – Free Networking

STAFF REPORTS

 

Join the Strategic Alliance Networking Group at (909) 268-9470 , or visit www.strategicnetworking.org for more information.

Join the Strategic Alliance Networking Group at (909) 268-9470 , or visit http://www.strategicnetworking.org for more information.

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Home Fires

BY PASTOR ROB NORRIS

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

“We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders.” (Psalm 78:4)

Five grown siblings came together at the event of their parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. When the time came to express their thanks to each parent for the one thing that stood out above all in their memories, each of them – without consulting the others – thanked their father for his leadership in family worship.

One of the brothers said, “The oldest memory I have, Dad, is of tears streaming down your face as you taught us from Pilgrim’s Progress on Sunday evenings. No matter how far I went astray in later years, I could never seriously question the reality of Christianity. I had seen it in you.”

Whenever the subject of family worship comes up, you may feel guilt at your failure in this area. I understand that. Few things seem harder to pull off or easier to put off. But when you consider the impact this one commitment could make in your own children for a lifetime, what could be more important?

It doesn’t have to be tightly preplanned. Take five or ten minutes before school to read a devotional with your children. Schedule one night a week when you’ll all be home to read a story and Scripture, sing (or make a joyful noise) and have some outrageous fun. Watch for those opportunities to practice “sandbox theology,” turning your children’s everyday events into spiritual training moments.

Don’t miss this: Dad and Mom, your ultimate assignment as parents is to introduce your children to God; His Son, Jesus Christ; and His Word. It may be hard to start and a challenge to continue, but it will make a huge difference in how they finish.

Live It: Talk about what each of you can do to be helpful and encouraging to each other in getting family worship started or in keeping it going.

Pray: Pray for priorities to firm up in your life, for incidentals to be seen for the waste of time they are, and for God’s Word to recapture each of your hearts.

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.

San Gabriel Valley: Identity Theft Crew Arrested

STAFF REPORTS

Arnulfo Rodarte, left, and Sylvester Curameng (Photo Courtesy: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department)

Arnulfo Rodarte, left, and Sylvester Curameng (Photo Courtesy: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department)

SGV – Over 20 people in cities across Southern California – including Arcadia, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, El Monte, La Puente, Ontario, San Dimas, West Covina, and Whittier – have been the victims of the Identity Theft Crew.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Lomita Station, released a statement that on Thurs., July 17, suspects attached to this crime have been arrested. Arnulfo Rodarte, a resident of San Pedro, and Sylvester Curameng, a resident of Torrance, are in custody for crimes involving burglary, identity theft, and possession of personal profiles belonging to other individuals. Another suspect, Andrea Serrao, of San Pedro, was also arrested for embezzlement.

On July 6, Rodarte and Curameng used a victim’s stolen credit card to make purchases at a San Pedro Target store, and were captured on video during the crime. Detectives viewing the video footage recognized Rodarte from a previous arrest and immediately obtained a search warrant. During the search they were able to identify Curameng, Rodarte’s crime partner, as well as a notebook and mail with information belonging to more than 20 victims.

The search also revealed that Serrao had rented a 2013 Mercedes Benz C250 from Enterprise Rental Car, and never returned it. It is believed that Serrao rented the car for the suspects to commit their crimes.

Rodarte and Curameng are being held at the Inmate Reception Center on bail in lieu of $20,000; and Serrao is being held at the Century Regional Detention Facility on bail in lieu of $25,000. All three suspects were due to be arraigned in court on July 21 in Torrance.

 

Corona: Local Children’s Theatre Group Finds New Home

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

Corona – On Wed., July 16, one of the items on the City of Corona’s City Council agenda involved deciding the future of the old Council office building. This entailed voting on whether or not to allow Christian Arts and Theatre of Corona, a local children’s theatre program, to become the building’s new tenants.

According to their website, “Christian Arts & Theatre of Corona (CAT) is an after-school theater and visual arts educational program for students ages 6 to 18. CAT is committed to building up kids through excellence in the arts as well as modeling for them the highest morals through traditional Biblical values.” CAT has been a big part of Corona for 15 years. They offer after-school classes in singing, dancing, acting, choreography, theatrical make-up, and much more. Students at CAT also have the opportunity to audition for a musical production.

The group has moved seven times to different locations throughout Corona since its beginning, and has spent the past two and a half years offering classes in the former school of Crossroads Christian Church. While the location of the classes and rehearsals has repeatedly changed, one thing has remained constant for a very long time: the Corona Civic Center Theater has continued to house their musical performances.

CAT’s artistic director, Cindy Monroe, was informed of the possibility of a new home for the theater group.   This “home” was located only a few steps from the Civic Center Theater that the CAT families know and love. “It’s such a beautiful place! Our kids and families will love this new home,” said Monroe.

On July 16, the council chambers were filled with many of the CAT families who had come to show their support for the organization. On the Consent Calendar, the 9th item stated: “City Council directs the City Attorney to prepare a lease agreement between the City and Christian Arts Theater, using the City’s standard Historic Civic Center Lease Agreement…” The agreement would be for a five year lease, plus a five year extension.

The council members then took the time to share a few words about CAT with those present and talked about the positive impact the organization’s relocation would have on the community, specifically in downtown Corona. Council Member Stan Skipworth enthusiastically stated, “This is an opportunity to keep our community alive.”

Finally, it came time for the Council to vote. The item was passed 5-0 in favor of allowing CAT to begin leasing the building. The news brought enthusiastic cheers and applause from the CAT families in the audience, and Mayor Karen Spiegel remarked good-naturedly, “You guys can stay the entire meeting, and during everything we do now. Make sure that the applause is that good; we don’t get that very often.”

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports 

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

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.

Calvary Lutheran Summer Kids’ Day Camp

When: Monday, Now through Wednesday, August 20; 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church & Schools, 23300 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar 91765 Details: A fun, safe, Christian environment for your school age children. Kids’ camp is a summer day camp program based on fun, personal and spiritual growth, and the celebration of God’s Word through various activities, field trips, and daily devotions.  All children ages 5 – 12 are invited to attend.  Check out the Mt. Calvary Lutheran website for more information about daily activities, registration, and fees.

 

West Covina Summer Concert Series

When: Thursday evenings, now through August 7; 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: West Covina Civic Center, 1444 W. Garvey Avenue

Details: Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and dancing shoes and enjoy this summer entertainment:

  • Jul 31: Cold Duck
  • Aug 7: Mariachi Divas
  • Aug 16: Food Truck Frenzy and Concert

Contact: Community Services Department, (626) 939-8489.

 

Diamond Bar Concert/Movie Series

When: Wednesday evenings through August 13; 6:30 p.m.

Where: Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive

Details: Free admission and free parking

  • Jul 30: Box Car 7 (Blues, R&B); Free Birds.
  • Aug 06: Cold Ducks (70s Tribute); The Lego Movie.
  • Aug 13: Little Lies Band (Fleetwood Mac Tribute); Despicable Me 2

Contact: www.ci.diamond-bar.ca.us

 

21st Annual Oxnard Salsa Festival

When: Saturday, July 26

Where: Oxnard, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).

Details: For $20 per person you can enjoy salsa, food, music and dance. Lunch is on your own at the festival. All ages are welcome.

Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.

 

Reduced Cost Vaccination Clinic

When: Tuesday, July 29, 7 to 8 p.m.

Where: Chino Community Building, 5443 B Street, Chino

Details: The Inland Valley Humane Society and SPCA will hold a reduced fee vaccination and licensing clinic for pets. Dogs: Rabies/$6; DHPP/$15; Bordetella/$15. Cats: Rabies/$10; FVRCP/$18.

Contact: (909) 706-4601

 

Chino Youth Museum Family-Friendly Programs

When: Now through August 2014

Where: 13191 Sixth Street, Downtown Chino; Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Nominal fees.

Details: There are some amazing events taking place this summer, from art projects and entertainment, to edible art creations and Kids Night Out. Enjoy special activities like You & Me Time, Beat the Heat cool activities, and special day Museum Birthday Parties.

Contact: (909) 334-3270 to find out more about the summer-fun schedule.

 

Wheel Food Fest

When: August 1, September 5, October 3 (1st Friday of the month); 5 to 8:30 p.m.

Where: Walnut Valley Unified School District, 880 S. Lemon Avenue, in Walnut.

Details: The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation is sponsoring a family fun night with a variety of gourmet food trucks. This is a delicious way to support your students, schools and community. There are no entry fees, and there is plenty of free parking. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy! Food trucks may include: The Slummin’ Gourmet, Macho Nacho, Rolling Sushi, Cup Cakery, Crepes Bonaparte, White Rabbit, and Dos Chinos. Please leave your pets at home, and do not bring alcohol, outside food or drinks.

 

Chino Relay for Life

When: Sat., Aug. 2, 9 a.m. through Sunday, Aug. 3, 8 a.m.

Where: Ayala Park, 14201 Central Ave, Chino

Details: 24-hour event that helps to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Run, Walk, Sponsor!

Contact: Kristine Travis, at kritravi1978@yahoo.com

 

Youth Citizens Police Academy Class VIII

When: Monday – Thursday, Aug. 11-21; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Chino Police Department, 5450 Walnut Avenue

Details: High school teens, 14-18 years of age, who live or attend school in the City of Chino, can get an inside look at all the functions of their local law enforcement agency. Participants will get hands-on experience with SWAT, Patrol, Criminal Investigations, K-9, CSI, Narcotics, Traffic and much more!

Contact: Olivia Le Van, (909) 334-3087, or olevan@chinopd.org for applications.

 

Irwindale Poker Tournament

When: Aug. 22 through Oct. 3; Tournament on Oct. 3, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Participating restaurants and The Pub at Miller-Coors.

Details: 6th Annual World of Food Poker Tournament, an innovative program designed to provide a fun way for poker players to earn bonus chips while driving business to local participating restaurants Registered players are encouraged to visit participating restaurants from Aug. 22 through Oct. 3 collecting chips for purchases. A Texas Hold-Em’ elimination tournament will be held on Fri., Oct. 3.

Contact: Detailed information is available on the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce website at www.irwindalechamber.org. Register no later than Aug. 7 to ensure full access to all materials.

 

Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Finale featuring the Simpsons!

When: Saturday, Sept. 13

Where: Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).

Details: Journey from the animated Springfield Bowl to the Hollywood Bowl for this unprecedented event as the famous orchestra accompanies your favorite scenes from the Simpsons on the big screen. Seats are located in Section F2, Rows 5, 6, and 7. The fee is $55 per person, appropriate for all ages.

Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.

 

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

 

Eastvale: Crime Recap July 2014

STAFF REPORTS 
Crime ImageThe following is a crime recap for the month of July in the Cities of Eastvale, Corona, Norco, and Jurupa Valley. Information is from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and from our Eastvale Community News Facebook Page.

On Tues., July 15 about 11:45 a.m., deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Station, Norco Sheriff’s Office, responded to the 2200 block of Vista Ridge in the city of Norco. This was in reference to a stolen vehicle investigation. Upon arriving, deputies located the stolen vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence. As the deputies continued with their investigation, they were able to locate and identify the suspects, who were found hiding in the residence. Lawrence Piper, 30, was arrested for possession of stolen property, burglary, and two felony warrants for parole violations; Julie Stewart, 28, was arrested for possession of stolen property, burglary, and a felony warrant for possession of controlled substance; and Tayler Jenkins, 23, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and violation of probation.

On July 18, at about 1:30 p.m., members of the Riverside Sheriff’s Special Investigation Bureau, along with deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office, served a search warrant in the 3700 block of California Avenue, in the city of Norco. The search warrant was the result of an investigation into an illegal outdoor marijuana grow operation at the location. During the search warrant service, over 400 marijuana plants were located and seized. The subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of two adult suspects, identified as Israel Martinez, 49, and Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez, 34, residents from the city of Ontario. They were each booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center (RPDC) for marijuana cultivation and conspiracy charges.

On Sat., July 19, at approximately 8:30 a.m., officers from the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to an assault with a deadly weapon report in the 3400 block of Skylane Drive. At the scene officers found Simona Mateas, 43, lying in the driveway suffering from gunshot wounds. There was reportedly a second victim at the home as well. Both were transported to a local hospital where Mateas succumbed to her injuries. The San Bernardino Police Department was dispatched later in the day responding to a suicide report, whereby Ayram Mateas, the husband of Simona, was found deceased inside the front door of a residence in the 1600 block of West Lincoln Avenue in San Bernardino. Upon further investigation it was found that the Mateas couple had been going through divorce proceedings, which may have instigated the murder/suicide.

On Sunday, July 20, two women were killed in a fiery crash on the I-15 freeway in the early morning hours. According to the California Highway Patrol, Julio Reyes, 34, of Riverside, was driving a black 2014 Lexus sedan while he was traveling southbound at alleged speeds of over 100 mph near Hidden Valley Parkway in Corona, when he slammed into the back of a silver Toyota. The Toyota burst into flames and both women were pronounced dead at the scene. Reyes was found by officers to be under the influence of alcohol and was he arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and drunken driving causing bodily injury. Reyes and two other passengers in his car sustained minor injuries. The names of the women have not yet been released.

 

Chino Hills: Businesses Invited To Business Expo At Fair

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino Hills – Companies in Chino Hills will have an opportunity to showcase their businesses and offer pre-packaged items for sale or sampling on Fri., Sept. 19, at Chino Hills Day at the Los Angeles County Fair.

The Business Expo will be located in a high-visibility location near the Millard Sheets Center for the Arts. Participation in the Business Expo will be coordinated by the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce. Applications will be available starting on Thurs., July 31, and can be downloaded from the City’s website at http://www.chinohills.org/BusinessExpo, or picked at the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce

Office, located at 13150 Seventh Street, in Chino. The Chamber is open Monday through Thursday from

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Chamber will begin accepting completed applications starting on Mon., Aug. 4., and will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis (subject to L.A. County Fair approval) until all booths have been assigned. Requests to share a booth are encouraged. Only one of any type of business will be allowed due to the limited number of spaces.

Businesses must have their primary business address in the City of Chino Hills and must have a current City of Chino Hills business license. Chamber membership is not required. Prepackaged items for sale and items to be sampled must be approved by the Fair.

A seller’s permit is required and Health Department guidelines must be followed. Selected businesses will be asked to make a suggested donation of $100 which will be donated to The Learning Centers at Fairplex. Expo participants will receive up to four admission tickets, up to two parking passes, and exposure to Fair visitors during the Expo hours from 3 to 7 p.m. The booths include a 10’ x 10’ canopy, one 8- foot table, two chairs, a small hanging sign with the company name, a table cloth, and table skirt.

Set up for the Business Expo begins at 2:00 p.m. Participants may not drive onto the fairgrounds. Fair personnel will assist with booth set up and tear down. Hand carts or flatbeds will be available.

Some categories of products and services have exclusive marketing rights at the L.A. County Fair and items that compete in those categories may not be displayed nor sold during Chino Hills Day at the Fair. A complete list of categories for which exclusive marketing rights have been granted is noted on the application form. The Chino Hills Business Expo may not feature the following categories: beverages, cookware, pay TV services, grocery stores, magnetic therapeutic jewelry, mattresses / high end sheets, online deal-of- the-day companies, timeshares, cell phone companies, and vehicles (including products bearing the name of major auto manufacturers). Additional rules may apply; see the application for complete details.

For additional information regarding participation in the Chino Hills Day at the Fair Business Expo, please call the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce at (909) 627-6177.

Walnut’s Aquatic Park

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

Walnut – After numerous promises during the reelection campaign from council members Mary Su and Bob Pacheco, plans for an aquatic center are starting to come together in the earliest stages of development.

In addition to Pacheco and Su, council member Tony Cartagena also expressed support for the construction of an aquatic center and with a high amount of public interest. $250,000 has been allocated from the 2014/2015 fiscal budget to go toward schematics, testing, and advanced studies in order to make the aquatic center a reality.

However, even with $250,000 being set aside by the City during the first month of its new fiscal year, they are approaching the construction with caution. According to Community Services Director Mary Rooney, the City is just now starting to assess many different aspects of the aquatic center’s construction. Plans are so new that Rooney mentioned that the location, cost, and specifics are preliminary and that everything is up for consideration.

“There are various preliminary plans that have to go in place before we can actually design and build anything,” Rooney said.

To date, the City has met in closed session to discuss the possible locations for the aquatic center while Rooney mentioned that they have only spent an estimated $22,500 of the $250,000 on professionally drawn schematics from Aquatic Design Group.

The total cost of construction for the aquatic center is being considered, however Rooney mentioned that certain council actions, including the July 23 decision to sell a tract of land near Amar Road, are possible ways to fund the creation of the center.

With funding and nearly all of the aquatics center’s plans still under consideration, Rooney wanted to make sure that residents understand that the City is still pushing forward with its plans and that one way or another, the aquatic center will be built.

“We are moving on this,” Rooney said.

Rooney said that with the help of a Parks and Recreation sub-committee, plans will continue to unfold as the year goes on.

Claudine Stines, a Walnut resident who has long been a proponent of this project says, “It’s hard to imagine what started as a swimming pool for Walnut, has now expanded to the possibility of two pools (a competitive and recreational pool). Who knows? The concept could even include a performing arts amphitheater, a series of nature trails, and family-friendly open parks with additional parking…”

Stines also encourages residents to let their voices be heard by visiting her website at http://chn.ge/1e1ewyp, where comments are shared with members of the Walnut City Council.

 

 

 

 

Eastvale: Chamber Business of the Month – Lewis Group of Companies

lewis-group-of-companies

As the Lewis Group of Companies begins its 59th year, many long-tenured employees under the direction of a second and third generation management team continue the tradition of quality, integrity and stability that was of paramount importance to Ralph and Goldy Lewis when they founded their home building firm in Claremont in 1955.

The Lewis Group of Companies continues today as one of the nation’s largest privately held real estate development companies. The Lewis Group focuses on developing mixed-use planned communities and residential subdivisions in California and Nevada, as well as building and owning rental communities, shopping centers, office parks, and industrial buildings.

Lewis has been a huge supporter of the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce since our incorporation in 2010.  We are privileged to have such a great company with amazing ethics and hardworking talent as part of our Chamber.

Contact Information:

Sam Carpenter

Director of Retail Marketing

  1. Carpenter@lewisop.com

http://www.lewisop.com/

Chino Hills: Madrona Project Lawsuit

Aerial view of the Madrona Project. (Photo Courtesy: Hills For Everyone)

Aerial view of the Madrona Project. (Photo Courtesy: Hills For Everyone)

BY K.P. SANDER 

Chino Hills – The Madrona Project, a proposed residential hillside development under the City of Brea’s jurisdiction, is the subject of much controversy with a lawsuit brewing in its core.

The 367 acres situated in the hills north of Carbon Canyon Road, moving eastward to the San Bernardino/Orange County line is expected to incur development of 162 homes in an area wrought with environmental and safety issues. In fact, the group that founded the Chino Hills State Park – Hills For Everyone – has filed suit against the City of Brea claiming violation of state planning and zoning laws, city codes, and an inadequate environmental report failing to reveal the project’s true impacts.

According to stopmadrona.org, at issue are a multitude of considerations that cannot be mitigated, including repeated wildfires to the area, unsafe geology, dangerous traffic levels, reduced air quality, loss of important habitats, and reduced public safety.

The Madrona Project was first proposed in 1999, and the Brea City Council voted to approve it on June 3 with a 4-1 vote. Notes from an earlier Brea City Council meeting share that the Mayor said he saw three ways that the Council could possibly vote: 1) deny the project; 2) approve the project as is; or 3) approve the project with conditions of approval. The City stands by their approval (with alleged conditions) and the environmental reporting conducted this far.

Many Chino Hills residents are reportedly helping to raise funds for the lawsuit, and have been actively protesting the project from the beginning. The acreage has already burned four times in the last 30 years, and the homes will remain completely surrounded by wild land making the future tenants extremely vulnerable. This, along with the massive amounts of water required to develop the area and sustain future residents in the midst of an historic drought are cause for concern.

The land is also home to an abundance of wildlife in a corridor that has allowed many rare or endangered species to thrive in their own community. By breaking up the continuity of the habitat, many animals could become extinct or have their numbers reduced significantly, not to mention the toll on native plants and all that the biodiversity of the area provides.

Stopmadrona.org says that the Brea council was forced into a legal settlement requiring them to process the project under rules that are 27 years old, but the opted for one-time economic benefits over the safety of its existing and future residents. Former Brea mayor, Beverly Perry, has reportedly said that it [the project] is poor planning and goes against Brea’s long-held values and standards for planning.

Baldwin Park Eastside Little League Beats Washington State-On Track to World Series

BY CECELIA BERNAL

Baldwin Park – The Big League Softball team (girls age 15-18) from Baldwin Park Eastside Little League are strong competitors on track to the Softball Little League World Series.  After winning the District 19 All Star Tournament and, last week, winning the Southern California Divisional All Star Championship, on Sunday they began competing for the Regional tournament against winners of Northern California and other states.  The Regional games are taking place in Lancaster where Eastside beat Washington State with a score of 15-3 on Monday.  The Regional winner will go on to the World Series in Sussex, Delaware.

After being talked into managing the team, David Muse, said “Coaches Tony Garcia and Steve Rivera, Eastside President Cecelia Bernal, and all the player have worked hard and done a great job this year”.

 

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Eastside Little League is a non-profit organization, operated solely by volunteers, to offer an organized sport to the children of Baldwin Park.

 

Walnut: Council Corner July 23d Recap

Walnut Council presents Captain Jeff Scroggin with an appreciation proclamation; (L-R) council members Tony Cartagena and Mary Su; Captain Scroggin; Mayor Nancy Tragarz; council member Bob Pacheco; and Mayor Pro Team Eric Ching. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Walnut Council presents Captain Jeff Scroggin with an appreciation proclamation; (L-R) council members Tony Cartagena and Mary Su; Captain Scroggin; Mayor Nancy Tragarz; council member Bob Pacheco; and Mayor Pro Team Eric Ching.
(Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – Walnut’s City Council met for its final meeting of the month on July 23, which stood as a joint meeting for the City Council and the Housing Authority.

Newly appointed Mayor, Nancy Tragarz, called the meeting to order and welcomed Pastor Paul Tan from City Blessing Church of Walnut to deliver the invocation. Tragarz then gave a declaration that the City of Walnut would recognize Aug. 5, 2014 as National Night Out, an event open to Walnut residents for an evening of family fun at Creekside Park which includes a movie screening and a concert.

Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department Captain, Jeff Scroggin, was invited to accept a proclamation in front of residents, while he was given praise by council members for the department’s hard work in lowering crime rates and providing safety to residents.

The council members then spoke about the opportunity that National Night Out provides, citing it as a chance for families to enjoy themselves and celebrate the safety of the City and bringing the community together.

“National Night Out is an effort for all of us to get together, come out and know members of your community,” Scroggin said.

The meeting then switched gears to a more intense topic, with members of the Timberline Community flooding the public comment section with nine residents declaring their distaste for the amount of growth that Mount San Antonio College has undergone and the level of congestion that student parking has caused. Residents called the increase in traffic and pollution a “crisis” and several residents called for immediate action – regardless of the power that city council has on Mount San Antonio College affairs.

Council member Tony Cartagena said it would be wise for the council to further discuss what can be done in appeasing the residents of the Timberline Community, vowing to bring the item back for discussion at a later time.

After the public comment section was closed, the council members moved to approve the minutes for the City Council/Finance Authority/Housing Authority meeting on June 25, and the July 9 council meeting, before moving on to a public hearing item concerning renewal of the Animal Care and Control Services Agreement with the County of Los Angeles.

A staff report outlined that the renewed contract would last for five years ending June 30, 2019, and adopts a resolution to include fees for dog and cat licensing and modifying the age requirement for senior citizens. City council members then opted to unanimously approve the renewed contract.

Council members then moved on to approve the items on the consent calendar, including Resolution No. 14-34 for claims and demands in the amount of $817,099.51; Resolution No. 14-35 for an intent to abandon property acquired for park purposes, the Mayor’s agency representatives; Resolution No. 14-36 designating Mary Su as the official voting delegate for the League of California Cities Annual Conference; a one year contract renewal with option to extend for two additional years with RPW, Inc. for trail and right of way maintenance services; the appropriation of grant funds for the Amar Road Rehabilitation Project totaling $998,000; and the approval for sports groups requests for bi-annual field use for Fall 2014.

After council members gave their reports on meetings, comments and updates for residents, the housing authority started its business, approving its only consent calendar item allowing claims and demands in the amount of $27,695.90.

The council members then adjourned to closed session with plans to meet for the next City Council meeting at 7 p.m. on Wed., Aug. 13, in the City Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.