Category Archives: News By City

NORCO: Life Saving Click It or Ticket Mobilization Begins in Norco

RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT PRESS RELEASE

Norco, CA – The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department / Jurupa Valley Station / Norco Office wants to remind motorists to Click It or Ticket. In order to enforce this reminder, beginning today Monday, May 19th, deputies will be joining in the 2014 national seat belt enforcement mobilization and cracking down on motorists who are not belted.

Even with a seatbelt usage rate of 97.4 percent, California still has 800,000 or more who aren’t buckling up. In a crash, they stand a 50 percent greater chance of being killed than those who have taken the two seconds to buckle in. In an ongoing effort to reach those remaining safety hold-outs, police, sheriff and the California Highway Patrol (CHP) departments across the state will be taking part in Click It or Ticket from May 19 through June 1.

“Our roadways will be packed with motorists this Memorial Day weekend as people travel to spend time with family and friends. We want to ensure that everyone arrives at their destination safely,” said Lieutenant Daniel Hedge. “Take a few extra seconds and put your seatbelt on to ensure your safety.”

According to new data released from the Department of Transportation’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), fatalities are up nationwide for the first time in five years. In 2012, 10,335 people who were killed in motor vehicle crashes were not wearing their seat belts. NHTSA data also details how more traffic vehicle deaths occur at night. In 2012, 61 percent of passenger vehicle occupants killed during the nighttime hours of 6:00 p.m. – 5:59 a.m. were not wearing their seat belts.

“Wearing a seat belt is one of the easiest and best things you can do to protect yourself in the event of a car crash,” said Rhonda Craft, Director of the California Office of Traffics Safety. “Taking a few moments to properly secure yourself and all your passengers before going on your way could mean the difference between life and death.”

The cost for a seat belt violation in California for unbuckled vehicle occupants over age 16 is a minimum of $161 for a first offense. The penalty fees for failing to properly buckle up any child under the age of 16 is a minimum $490 per child for a first offense, plus a violation point will be added to the driver’s record. If the parent is not in the car, the driver gets the ticket.

For more traffic safety information, visit the California Office of Traffic Safety at http://www.ots.ca.gov or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration Click It or Ticket mobilization, http://www.nhtsa.gov/ciot.

Weekly News 05.17.14

The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link May17WeeklyALL to access the complete May 17-23, 2014 issue in pdf format.

Pomona: Murder Suicide Tragedy

STAFF REPORTS

Pomona – Tragedy struck a residential home in the City of Pomona when a man, after allegedly calling his brother to reveal his plans just moments before he attacked, shot his girlfriend, her brother, her mother, and then himself, in an ugly turn of events late Thurs., May 8.

According to a news release from the Pomona Police Department, officers discovered the bodies in the 2100 block of Ramsey Way just before 11 p.m. The victims, who apparently all lived together at the residence, were dead at the scene in their individual bedrooms. They are reportedly described by a relative as 25-year old Mariana Padilla, her 17-year old brother, Juan Padilla, and their mother, Manuela Padilla, 52.

While there is speculation of a domestic dispute, motive has not yet been determined. The news release further stated that the suspect, whose name has not been released, was found dead from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound and was found in the same room as his girlfriend. A handgun was recovered near the body and is believed to be the murder weapon.

Witnesses who might have information related to this homicide investigation are encouraged to contact Pomona Detectives at (909) 620-2085. Witnesses may remain anonymous by contacting Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477, or We-Tip at (800) 782-7463.

EASTVALE: Can Our Military Banner Program “Weather” Eastvale’s Winds?

military banners

By Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – As you drive down Archibald Street, south of Schleisman Road, the faces and names of our City’s active military men and women wave above. The Military Banner Program honoring our local heroes has blossomed into nearly 40 banners. But the hot and windy conditions that the area has been experiencing lately have left 18 of the 39 banners missing. Those that do remain are battered and some are barely hanging on.
At the May 14 City Council meeting, City Manager, Carol Jacobs, explained to the Council her worries about the banners. “The winds are blowing them down and ruining them, which ends up wasting money when they have to be continually replaced,” said Jacobs. She suggested that the City look into other ways to honor our active duty military personnel that perhaps doesn’t involve the banners. Jacobs also stated that she would be working with JCSD and staff to have a meeting to discuss a more permanent, collaborative program to honor the military, like a military wall of honor.

Council Member Jeff DeGrandpre suggested to Jacobs that, “We need to ask surrounding cities what they do to keep banners up.” Cities like Ontario and Norco also have a similar program and share the same weather conditions, another point which was presented by the Council.

One of the possible solutions brought up by Jacobs was the purchase of new, sturdier and more flexible brackets that would allow the banners to bend with the wind. The current brackets and banners are rated for 60mph winds, where these newer ones are built to withstand 80mph. According to the City of Eastvale’s website, the current banners cost $177.47 with the bracket cost being $61.10 of the total. The new brackets would push the cost of each banner to between $350 and $400 – a significant jump of up to $284 per bracket.

The Eastvale Military Banner Program is funded completely by donations from local businesses, residents and supporters. JCSD graciously volunteers their manpower and equipment to hang them. The Eastvale Community Foundation, which has raised funds to cover the program, plans to continue to raise funds with events like the upcoming golf tournament to help cover the costs.

While Jacobs would like to see the current program put on hold for six to nine months while they look for other possible solutions, the military banners are a very emotional subject throughout this community. City of Eastvale Public Information Officer, Michele Nissen, explained to the Council that a previous staff member had done some research into how to establish a military banner program and that she would look into his research as well as do some additional research. The meeting concluded with Jacobs’ assurance that they would do some research and bring back some options to a future Council meeting for the Council to take into consideration.

Many citizens of Eastvale take great pride in our military banners and the thought of not seeing them brings about a sense of sadness and loss. According to Eastvale Community Foundation Board Member, Sharyn Link, “Some of the banners were bought with proceeds from golf tournaments and various other fundraisers as a way to honor our military. We would hate to not have them there. They provide a sense of pride to our community and we must find a way to keep them up.”

While the current state of the banners seems dire, other cities have been able to keep their banners up by making them smaller and using stronger brackets. According to the City of Norco, “We have had success with smaller banners and stronger brackets and over time we have found the best solution for us.”

Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters (LEAFF) President, Rigo Arellano, feels that “Although we understand the economic decisions of not wasting money on banners that will be destroyed, we feel it shouldn’t stop the program. Instead, we would like the City to look for more effective and efficient ways to replace the banners with stronger hardware. Although it may cost more, it would mitigate the problem and ensure the Military Banner Program continues in our great city.”

The fate of the Military Banner Program and possible ways to improve it will be discussed at a future City Council meeting. City Council Meetings are held usually on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month and the next one is on Wed., May 28, 6:30 p.m., at Rosa Parks Elementary School.

Walnut: Council Corner May 14 Meeting

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – The City of Walnut recently held its first City Council meeting for the month on May 14, with regular business, recognition for the City’s youth commissioners, and a proclamation that May 2014 be known as Water Awareness Month with help from the Walnut Valley Water District.

The City Council members recognized the need for the City to conserve water during the state-wide drought with Mayor Tony Cartagena saying that Walnut residents have managed to cut back on water usage in the last few months. However, Cartagena, and other the City Council members still urged Walnut residents to continue the efforts because the drought is not over yet.
The City Council members then welcomed members from the Walnut Valley Water District to the board meeting and proclaimed that the month of May was Water Awareness Month.

“All Californians need to continue to conserve water,” Mayor Cartagena said. “May 2014 is Water Awareness Month, and we urge all citizens to participate.”

After the presentations, the City Council then approved the agenda minutes – with minor changes from Council Member Nancy Tragarz – for the March 26 City Council and Housing Authority meeting, the April 9 Study Session, the April 9 City Council meeting, and the April 23 City Council and Housing Authority meeting.
The Council then held a public hearing in regard to the 2014-2015 lighting and open space maintenance district assessment, which outlined the progress of work on Grand Avenue.
Without any public feedback, the Council approved the district’s assessment, which has been progressing at a satisfactory rate.

Members of the Los Angeles County Fire Department then introduced and answered questions concerning the adoption of the second reading for the 2014 Los Angeles County Fire Code, which the City Council then adopted after hearing specifics about how solar panels affect fire codes for certain buildings.

City Council members then went on to approve all five items on the consent calendar, regarding a resolution for claims and demands in the amount of $780, 448.91; the City ShowMobile Use Guide; the approval of a three year contract with Nieves Landscaping, Inc.; the expiration of RedFlex red light cameras at Grand and Amar; and changes in position classification regarding payment of salaries, sick leave, vacation, leaves of absence and other regulations.
The members of the City Council then retreated into a closed session to discuss a settlement negotiation for real property pursuant to Government Code Section 54956.8.

The Council officially adjourned with plans to hold its next regular meeting on Wed., May 28 at 7 p.m. in the City Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Chino Valley: Fire District Board of Directors Selects Fire Chief

fire-chief-tim-shackelford

New Fire Chief, Tim Shackelford (Chino Valley Fire District)

BY CHINO VALLEY FIRE DISTRICT 

Chino Hills – The Chino Valley Fire District Board of Directors selected Tim Shackelford to lead the Fire District as its Fire Chief, effective immediately. Chief Shackelford has served as interim Fire Chief since January.

The terms of the 4-year employment agreement was unanimously approved by the Board of Directors at its Regular Board Meeting on May 14, 2014.

Chief Shackelford has been with the Fire District for 23 years. He was first hired by the District as a firefighter and was promoted up the ranks to Firefighter/Paramedic, Captain, Battalion Chief and Deputy Chief, before being selected as Fire Chief.

Chief Shackelford has an A.S, Degree in Fire Technology, a B.S. Degree in Fire Science, and a M.S. Degree in Occupational Safety and Health. He is currently enrolled in the Executive Fire Officer Program through the National Fire Academy.

Chief Shackelford is a member of the Rancho Del Chino Rotary and of the Chino Valley Community Church. He resides in the City of Chino Hills with his wife of 21 years, Shannon, and their teenage sons, Riley and Addison.

Walnut: Mora Found Guilty of Murder

mora-home-walnut

Mora House (Photo Courtesy: Michael Armijo)

STAFF REPORTS

Walnut – On Mon., May 12, a jury found 46-year old Socorro Mora guilty for the second-degree murder of her husband, animal cruelty, and corporal injury to a spouse.

In October of 2011 (see ANAPR story: Walnut Woman Goes To Trial for Murder), Mora was accused of the stabbing death of her husband, George Mora, 47 at the time, in the home he shared with the couple’s four children on the 21600 block of Brookside Court in Walnut. There was much controversy surrounding the circumstances, as Socorro was found in front of the home with stab injuries, which were subsequently found to be self-inflicted. George was found by authorities inside, dead from multiple stab wounds.

George had obtained a restraining order against his wife just three weeks before he was killed due to the increasing violence – including the killing of the family dog – of his estranged wife. The couple had been married since 1993, but had separated in 2011.

With a Not Guilty plea entered by Socorro in a trial that began January 28 in Pomona Superior Court, she has been jailed in lieu of $5 million bail since the arrest, just five days after the stabbing attack. The jury has disagreed with her plea, and she has been convicted with sentencing set for June 24. Socorro faces 20 years to life.

EASTVALE/NORCO: Multiple Vehicle Accident Closes River Rd. Bridge

Accident on River Rd. Bridge Photo By: Matthew Zick

Accident on River Rd. Bridge
Photo By: Matthew Zick


BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL
EASTVALE- A multiple vehicle accident occurred this morning around 9:30 am on River Rd. Bridge in Eastvale entering into Norco. According to an incident report from CAL FIRE:

CAL FIRE/Riverside County Firefighters are on scene of a multiple patient traffic collision. The incident resulted in five injuries ( four moderate and one with minor). The injured were transported by ground ambulance to local area hospital.

The bridge is still closed as of 10:20am on May 19, 2014.

Compassion Of Christ

BY PASTOR ROBERT JEWETT

Pastor Robert Jewett Word of Truth Community ChurchAlthough Jesus’ entire ministry was focused on reconciling a lost world to himself (2 Corinthians 5:18-19), he could not help but have compassion on the lost and hurting. Large crowds would gather to see him work miracles, but many would reject him as Messiah. This could not, however, prevent him from showing compassion on them. Even to the point of death, hanging on a cross looking down upon those desiring his death, he prayed, “Father forgive them, for they know not what they do,” (Luke 23:34).

Over and over again we see Jesus having compassion for the people. He had compassion on those who were full of internal turmoil and hopelessness (Matthew 9:36), and upon those who were sick (Matthew 14:14). He had compassion on the widow who lost her only son (Luke 7:11-15), and upon those who were hungry (Matthew 15:32). He also has compassion on you today in your circumstances.

Sometimes we try to ignore the fact that we are messed up and in need. Instead of humbling ourselves, we puff ourselves up and miss the amazing compassion that Christ has for us. Turn to Christ today and receive his love and compassion!

Word of Truth Community Church meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m.; 850 East Parkridge Avenue, Suite 110, Corona 92879. For more information call (909) 235-WORD, or visit their website at http://www.wordoftruthcc.com.

Kim Possible

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

She swings from a rope she shot out of her sleeve. She dodges laser death rays and leaps to freedom. She saves the world and her side kick is a guy. She’s Kim Possible, a teenage secret agent. She’s the coolest. She is a hero each week on the Disney Channel and, most importantly, she’s a woman.

Kim Possible, although just a cartoon character, is such a great role model for women and young girls. Having grown up with six sisters, and having a daughter of my own, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of the equality of women. And I’m proud to see programs that depict women as leaders, and as equals. This is good for young girls to see; the truth that men and women are created equal.

When I think back about my life, I remember many shows that focused on beauty and sexism. Shows like Leave it to Beaver, Father Knows Best, the Brady Bunch, the Dean Martin Comedy Hour, and Laugh In. Their predominant message depicted women as housewives, as sex symbols, or the butt end of a joke.

My sisters have empowered themselves throughout their lives, and I’ve held onto the belief that women should hold equal positions within business and marriage. And when they can’t, I’ve learned that it isn’t because of their gender, it is because of their upbringing. My father taught my sisters to work. And work they did. Many women I know were encouraged to find a man and settle down to take care of the kids. And many women I’ve met still believe that men rule the planet. I hope that those women find out the truth about us men: we don’t run the planet; we just sometimes act like we do.

I know that someday all people will see the light that equally shines from our vivid sun. And I know that all people have the right to equally feel the energy within the stars that burn a million miles away. And as those rays of sunlight shine on us, and as we all watch the same stars with equitable vision, I know I’ll see our world grow stronger and more passionate than ever before.

And each week, on the Disney Channel, you can enjoy – and hopefully relate – to a young high school student named Kim, who reminds us that nothing is impossible.

Chino Valley Fire Participates in S.O.L.A.R. Training

fire crews

Fire crews training in Tonner Canyon (Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire)

STAFF REPORTS

The Chino Valley Fire District joined neighboring fire agencies this week from San Bernardino, Orange, Los Angeles, and Riverside counties for the annual Tonner Canyon S.O.L.A.R. drill hosted by CAL FIRE/Riverside. The three day drills took place from May 12th-14th. Tonner Canyon is located across the borders of LA and Orange counties and is a mutual threat area for neighboring cities of Diamond Bar, Chino Hills, Corona and Brea. The acronym S.O.L.A.R. stands for the fire agencies of San Bernardino, Orange, Los Angeles and Riverside counties.
This is the fourth year of the S.O.L.A.R drills which were developed in 2010 following the 2008 Freeway Complex Fire. The fire burned over 30,000 acres and reached areas of Corona, Yorba Linda, Anaheim Hills, Brea, Chino Hills and Diamond Bar. The S.O.L.A.R program was developed to create a unified communications plan among the different fire agencies and coordination of the agencies to work under a Unified Command during a fire situation.

helicopter-water-drop

Helicopters perform water drops as part of S.O.L.A.R. training. (Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire)

The recent Santa Ana wind conditions provided a perfect opportunity to train in a real-life scenario of high winds, high temperatures and low humidity. The firefighters were briefed on parameters of a fictional fire and then dispatched to the hills to attack the fake fire. The training incorporated the S.O.L.A.R communication plan to direct water drops from helicopters, multiple fire crews cutting back vegetation, and firefighters working hose lines over the rugged terrain of Tonner Canyon.

With several fires already ablaze in parts of Southern California, the training was a great opportunity for local firefighters to prepare for what appears to be a very hot and dry summer ahead.

Straight Talk With Danice

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

My boyfriend is too conservative. I want us to get tattoos together, and he won’t do it. He said his mom would kill him. He is 19 years old and still lives with his parents while he’s in college. I keep telling him that he’s an adult now, and he should make his own decisions. I love him but he needs to grow up.

Jolie

Dear Jolie:

It seems to me that your boyfriend IS making his own decisions. He said no, and then he told you it was because he didn’t want to upset his mom. But he did make a decision. In my opinion, his behavior seems more grown up than yours. He’s made a decision to avoid being pressured into something he doesn’t want to do. Manage your own body, and allow him to do the same. Pressuring a friend into something they don’t want is immature and unkind. His motives for not wanting a tattoo are really none of your business.

Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She has a great passion for alternative healing and has over 20 years of experience in this field. She provides a form of energy psychology called The Emotion Code, where she helps people literally get rid of their emotional baggage. She also offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

Did You Know?

johnwayne

John Wayne, American Actor and Icon

BY K.P. SANDER“Sure, I wave the American flag. Do you know a better flag to wave? Sure, I love my country with all her faults. I’m not ashamed of that, never have been, never will be.”

While John Wayne (who was born Marion Robert Morrison in 1907) never served in the military, he was famously patriotic. Wayne’s father, Clyde Leonard Morrison was the son of American Civil War veteran, Marion Mitchell Morrison (1845 – 1915). Wayne applied to the U.S. Naval Academy, but was not accepted. That did not diminish his love for his country, and he supported the troops throughout his career.

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events-Starting May 15, 2014

STAFF REPORTS

event-calendar-imageUPCOMING EVENTS:

Artist Karl Benjamin Mosaic Unveiling
When: Thurs., May 15, 5:30 p.m.
Where: Mt. SAC Art Complex, Building 1A
Details: Mt. San Antonio College and its Public Arts Council will unveil the first of a series of mosaic reproductions of internationally renowned Claremont artist, Karl Benjamin, during an unveiling ceremony. Following the unveiling ceremony, a discussion of the mosaic exhibit will be facilitated in the Feddersen Recital Hall at 7:30 p.m. Both events are free and open to the public.
Contact: For more information, visit the Art Gallery’s website at http://www.mtsac.edu/artgallery, or call (909) 274-4328.

San Gabriel Valley Orchid Hobbyists Annual Auction
When: Thurs., May 15. Doors open at 6 p.m.; Auction begins at 7 p.m.
Where: Los Angeles County Arboretum, 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia 91106.
Details: Get rock bottom prices from award-winning orchid vendors from Santa Barbara to San Diego and Hawaii. Orchids, gift certificates, growing supplies and more will be available at a 50 to 75% discount.
Contact: For more information, visit http://www.SGVOH.org.

Diamond Bar AYSO: Registration ages 4 to 18 years of age.
When: May 15, and June 3, 2014 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Pantera Park
Details: Please visit http://www.DBAYSO.org for registration procedures for both volunteers and players, ages 4 to 18.
Contact: Greg M. Busch, R31_Safety@dbayso.org.
Electric Car Guest Drive
When: Saturday, May 10
Where: Ruben S. Ayala Park
Details: The Electric Car Guest Drive socials take place at parks up the California coast giving people a non-sales environment to test drive at least six electronic vehicles from one location, learn from educational sponsor booths, and talk to their local EV drivers about what going electric is all about.
Contact: Email ElectricCarGuestDrive@gmail.com for more information.

Fire Service Day
When: Saturday, May 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: City of Industry Fire Station 118; 17056 Gale Avenue, City of Industry
Details: Join the Los Angeles County Fire Station as they celebrate Fire Service Day with Fire Engines, Pool Safety, Jaws of Life Demonstration, and Equipment Displays.

3rd Annual Women’s Care Center Walk for Life
When: Saturday, June 14 at 8 a.m.; Registration starts at 6:30 a.m.
Where: Industry Expo Center; 16200 Temple Avenue, City of Industry
Cost: $35 (includes race, entry, goodie bag, meal, and t-shirt)
Details: 5K Run and Walk for Life.
Contact: Landon Diener, Event Manager (714) 309-1634; landondiener@gmail.com. Register at http://www.womenscarecenter.org
OPARC’s Heart and Sole: Fun Run 1K/5K and Health Fair
When: June 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Ruben S. Ayala Park, 5575 Edison Ave., Chino CA 91710
Cost: Entry fee for runners/walkers is $20, inspiration signs are $50, vendor booths are $150 and additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Free parking.
Details: OPARC, a 501(c)(3) organization that trains, employs and serves the mentally disabled community. Food vendors, vendor booths, participant awards, music, guest appearances, and more. Walk-ins are welcome.

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: Faith and Science

BY PASTOR TIM EATON

The debate between faith and science has raged for centuries. For some people of faith, science is a dark subject and the mention of it strikes fear

pastor -tim-eaton-edgewater-lutheren

Pastor-Tim-Eaton-Edgewater-Lutheren

Could there be another way? Could they be compatible? Could they, in fact, be helpful to one another? This is not a new idea. Johannes Kepler (1571-1630), was the father of physical astronomy. A strong believer, he had intended to become a minister but accepted a position as a teacher of mathematics and astronomy. He discovered three mathematical laws of planetary motion (elliptical orbits of the sun). He even sought to reconcile these ideas with scripture. In this regard, he is famous for his quote: “Thinking God’s thoughts after Him.”

Kepler’s introduction of physics to the study of astronomy was initially rejected by the scientific community. It was his faith that strengthened his resolve to press on and publish his groundbreaking research in the face of opposition.
I invite you to discover the very interesting connections between faith and science on May 18, as Edgewater welcomes special guest speaker, Dr. Ken Ebel, Professor of Biology at Concordia University Irvine. Come discover the harmony for yourself as Dr. Ebel discusses faith in the light of science.

Orange County: Sikhs, Muslims File Complaints Against Boomers

BY EMILY LUNDBERG

 

Newport Beach – On April 29, the California Chapter of the Council in America-Islamic Relations (CAIR-

cair.ca-united-sikhs-file-complaint-against-boomers

Complaint filed by CAIR-CA and United Sikhs (Photo Courtesy: http://www.ca.cair.com)

CA) and the United Sikhs announced they have filed three complaints with the California Department of Fair Employment and Housing against Boomers Amusement Park.

The complaints were filed against the amusement park for “barring park attendees who wear religious head coverings from its Go-Kart rides,” according to a press release published by CAIR-CA.

The actual complaints are based on incidents that happened last year to two families with daughters who wore religious head wraps. Each was reportedly denied their request to go on the Go-Karts because of a company policy that bans the wearing of headgear on rides. One of the complaints filed quoted Boomers safety policy as saying, “We do not allow ANY headwear on go-karts. This includes: hats, caps, visors, ear muffs, head phones, bandanas, scarves, turbans, yamakas, hijabs, doo-wraps, or head wraps of any kind. We do not distinguish amongst headgear based on religious issues, medical conditions, one’s fashion desires or anything else.” The policy goes on to say that this is a safety concern, as head wraps, as well as long hair, can possibly become entangled in the karts wheels or engines causing severe injury or even death (with compelling details justifying their policy).

In a press release on the United Sikhs website, the religious organization responded to Boomers safety policy by saying it is a “justification for discriminatory treatment” and claimed that the amusement park company is unable to provide any “sustainable proof” of the safety concerns it claims exist.

Boomers is a subsidiary of Palace Entertainment, Ltd. The Newport Beach based company owns 18 other amusement parks in addition to Boomers, including Castle Park, Raging Waters, and Speed Zone. At the time this article was written, they were not available for comment on the allegations made by CAIR-CA and the United Sikhs.

 

Eastvale: Eat Well, Feel Happy

BY NICOLE GILLES, RD, CDE, CSR

Have you noticed a change in your mood lately? Not feeling as happy and energetic as you used to? Food may be to blame.

Nutritionist-Nicole-Gilles

Nicole Gilles, RD, CDE, CSR

During the winter months, most Americans tend to eat more starch and fat in their diets, which can leave you feeling sleepy and emotionally
unstable. High fat food, like fried food, whole fat dairy products, and fatty meats take lots of time and energy to digest. All this strain on the body may leave you in need of a nap. Large portions of starchy food, like grain products, pasta, potatoes, and sweets will cause a dramatic rise and fall in blood sugar levels. This effect may cause your mood to rise and fall as well, leaving you feeling mad or anxious. Let’s face it. We could all use a little more energy, patience, and emotional stability to help us juggle our busy lives.

So what are we to do? Small changes in the diet may help support an improved and stable mood while providing increased energy levels. Can you believe food can affect your mental health that much? If you need more convincing, try it out for a month and see how you feel. Start by making small changes like avoiding fried food and switching to low fat foods for a week. The next week, continue your previous changes and start cutting back on starchy food. If this leaves you feeling hungry, increase your portions of vegetables and/or snack on one cup of fresh fruit between meals. The decreased fat and starch intake will decrease your body’s energy demands to digest food, leaving more energy for what you want to do. The decreased starch portions and occasional fruit snack will also support level blood sugars, which will support emotional stability. Together, these small changes can make a big difference in your mental health.

Celebrate Mental Health Month this May by making small food changes to feel better by June!

 

If you would like to slim down this spring, look no further than local Eastvale resident, Nicole Gilles.  Nicole is the owner of Happy and Healthy Nutrition and she is dedicated to helping you achieve your health and weight goals.  As a Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator, and Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, Nicole is qualified to help you learn how to cope with emotional eating and learn to eat for your body’s individual needs.  Happy and Healthy Nutrition members discover when to eat, how to eat, and how to lose weight and keep it off permanently.  What are you waiting for? Start today, for a happy and healthy tomorrow!

Contact Happy and Healthy Nutrition at http://www.HandHnutrition.com, or call (909) 816-0977; and like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/happyandhealthynutrition.nicolegilles. Virtual Counseling is also available. Check out their ad in the Eastvale Community News May publication for a special discount available to Eastvale News readers.

 

Riverside: Community Makes Going to Prom a Reality for Teen

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

 

A teenager in Riverside was able to attend his high school prom thanks to the generous people in his community.

 

Recently, 16 year-old Albert Luna, Jr. and his girlfriend, Vanessa Flores, had no hope of attending prom. Luna’s parents had both recently lost their jobs, and his father said that there was just no feasible way for them to pay for prom because of it. This was hard on both parents, who wanted so badly for their son to be able to attend his prom. According to Albert Luna, Sr., it “crushed” him.

 

Kimberley Mickey, a family friend, knew about the family’s dilemma, and wanted to do something to help out. She told the family not to worry, that she had it covered. Mickey then made a post on the Facebook page, “What’s Going On in Riverside County,” and she almost immediately saw a response from the community. Riverside Mission Florists, a local flower shop, was one of the first places to help Luna out. They donated the corsage and boutonniere for the teens, and another company graciously donated the tuxedo. A restaurant offered to cover dinner for Luna and his friends, and a car company provided a limousine.

 

Albert Luna was able to experience first-hand that there are people out there who genuinely care about others. And that is one of the greatest gifts a person can give to someone else.

 

 

Chino Hills: In The News

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino Hills – The City of Chino Hills has announced that a new drop off zone for students will be available at the Community Center, come Mon., May 12.

 

Ayala High School students will now be allowed to be dropped off at the Chino Hills Community Center parking lot for the remainder of the school year. Motorists may enter the parking lot at Bulldog Way, turn left to the southern parking lot, and exit south on Peyton Drive. Safety will be enhanced if motorists follow this one-way traffic flow during drop-off and pick-up periods. City officials will evaluate the effectiveness of the use of this parking lot as an ongoing student drop-off zone.

 

In more news, the City of Chino Hills’ 14th Annual Water Conservation Design-A-Sign contest recently honored its winners. This year’s theme was “Catch Those Drops, Don’t Let Them Get Away,” and local children designed water conservation signs to promote awareness and learn about this precious natural resource.

 

With a total of 267 entries, two grand prize winners were awarded. Calvin Park, a 6th Grade student at Oak Ridge Elementary won an X-Box 360 with Kinect; and Myra Zhan, a 10th Grade student from Ayala High School won an iPad Mini. The Chino Valley YMCA donated one-year Youth Facility Memberships, valued at $75, to all winners, who also received water conservation backpacks filled with various goodies, tickets to Harkin’s Theatres, and a $10 Gift Card for Cold Stone Creamery.

 

Winning posters for 2014 have been made into permanent Water Conservation Street Signs, now on display on streetlight poles along City Center Drive at the Chino Hills Government Center. The signs will also be moved to the winning students’ schools before being permanently installed at various locations throughout the City.

 

 

 

Eastvale: Chamber Business of the Month: Allegra Corona

allegra-marketing-printMarketing, Print, and Mail: Allegra Corona is Your Local Resource with Powerful Bench Strength

Company Overview

Sharing your story and reaching the right audience can be a challenge for any business. Take into account all the new channels, technology and products available to marketers, and the task can seem Herculean.

At Allegra, they understand. Partner with them for access to the strategies, technologies and creative team you need to help you grow your company or organization. You’ll have a one-stop local resource for all your marketing and communications needs, backed by the accumulated experience of more than 300 sister companies and the thousands of marketing successes they’ve had with organizations like yours.

Contact: (951) 734-8181 for more information, or visit their website at http://www.allegracorona.com.