Category Archives: News By City

Don’t Forget

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

One of my most embarrassing moments occurred about a year ago. I was asked to do the invocation at the City Council meeting in Diamond Bar. But, I forgot.

I am thankful that our City Council asks different religious leaders in the community to give an invocation before each meeting. I usually do this two or three times a year. But one day last year, I got busy and completely forgot it was my day to be at the council meeting. The City Clerk had sent me a reminder, and I even had it written on my own calendar.

My name was printed on the agenda. I’m sure it was an awkward moment of silence when they called my name and I wasn’t there. People probably wondered what happened to that absent-minded pastor.

Since that time, I have taken steps to make sure I don’t forget again. I have asked the City Clerk to call and remind me on the day of the meeting. I also ask our church secretary to do the same. I even post sticky notes on my desk and in my car. So far, so good; I’m thankful they were willing to forgive me and give me another chance.

There are many passages in the Bible that exhort us not to forget. Many of the holidays and festivals in the Bible are designed to help people not forget. The Jewish Passover is celebrated every year so that parents and children will not forget the night when the Angel of Death swept over the land of Egypt. The first born in every home died, but the first born in the homes that had the blood of the Passover Lamb on the door posts were saved. In a similar way, Christians celebrate Easter Sunday every year so they will never forget Jesus’ death on the cross, and His resurrection three days later.

As we enjoy this spring season, I hope you are reminded of the importance of holidays like Passover and the Easter we just celebrated. It’s not about Easter Egg Hunts and family dinners. It’s not about spring break and time off from school. This beautiful season is about events and miracles recorded in the Bible. We celebrate so that we will never forget what God has done for us. I hope you won’t forget!

 

Pastor Mark Hopper

Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

(909) 594-7604

Sunday Services: 9 and 10:45 a.m.

Eastvale: I Will Say It Again: Rejoice!

BY PASTOR MARK LEE

Pastor Mark Lee Vantage Point Church

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point Church in Eastvale

When most people think of the month of May, two special occasions come to mind: Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. But, did you know that more than 70 obscure holidays are observed this month? From Mother Goose Day on May 1 to National Macaroon Day on May 31, there is a reason to celebrate every single day this month. And yet, some of us will find it hard to be happy on even one day. Have you ever had a bad morning? Has that bad morning ever evolved into a bad day or bad week? So often, we fixate on the negative. We see the grumpy boss and not the paycheck. We hear the temper tantrums, but tune out the laughter. We complain about dirty dishes, but forget to be thankful for dinner. And, when you focus on the negative, it multiplies. Soon, all you see are the negative aspects about your job, your marriage, etc.

Life can be overwhelming. Whether you are struggling with broken relationships, financial difficulties, or simply trying to get the kids to school on time, it is easy to get discouraged. It is a lot harder to be positive, especially in the midst of tribulation. But, in Philippians 4:4, Paul tells us to, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

It takes discipline to be happy. Every day, we need to make a conscious effort to focus on the positive and rejoice in the little stuff. This is what the month of May – and its 70 plus holidays – reminds us. Whether it is National Star Wars Day on May 4 or Dance like a Chicken Day on May 14, we need to find a reason to celebrate!

 

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays, at 8:30, 10, and 11:30 a.m.

 

 

 

Walnut: Big Wins for Mt. San Antonio College

Staff ReportsMt. San Antonio College

 

Walnut – For the second straight year and the third time in the last four years, the Mt. San Antonio College Forensics Team won the Phi Rho Pi national speech title at the national tournament, held April 7-12, at Casper and Northwest colleges in Denver, Colorado. This championship victory marks the ninth time Mt. SAC has won the Phi Rho Pi national title. Combined with four wins as the top community college at the four-year college national tournament, the championship marks the 13th time in the last 20 years that Mt. SAC has been recognized as the top community college in the nation.

The Mt. Sac Jazz Ensemble and vocal jazz group, Frontline, each won first place in their respective divisions at the 52nd Annual Reno Jazz Festival, held April 10-12, at the University of Nevada. This year’s win marks the first time that Frontline has taken first place at the festival, while the Jazz Ensemble has won the college division at the festival four of the last five years. Frontline competed against 12 ensembles from community colleges and universities, including Cal State Fullerton and Cal State Sacramento. The jazz band competed against 16 university and two-year college bands. The festival provides a platform for college competition as well as participation in music workshops and concerts highlighted by performances by the some of the legends of jazz.

Diamond Bar: Diamond Ranch High School Alum Wins CUI Academic Showcase

STAFF REPORTS

Diamond Bar – Thomas Moreno, a 2012 graduate of Diamond Ranch High School, won first place in the tier-two category of Concordia University’s 11th Annual Academic Showcase. Moreno, along with partner Cy Perkins, made his presentation on “Insights into the role of interactions between VDAC1, Bcl-2, and mutant Sod1 in familial Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly called Lou Gehrig’s disease.”  His faculty mentor was Dr. Lindsay Kane-Barnese.

The Academic Showcase is a campus-wide research competition that challenges students to conceive and investigate a research topic and present their findings. Students compete across disciplines and are required to complete a research paper, an academic poster and an oral presentation.

The competition provides a chance for students to work one-on-one with a faculty mentor to complete a full-scale undergraduate research project selected from any discipline. A panel of faculty, selected from across Concordia’s disciplines, serves as judges for the showcase and evaluates projects on use of literature, choice of methodology, and discussion of results and implications.

Winners receive a cash award, and some will be invited to represent Concordia by presenting their research at an inter-collegiate undergraduate research conference in this fall.

Eastvale: City Council Recap 04.29.14

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

At the April 9 City Council meeting for Eastvale, Council members Ric Welch, Jeff DeGrandpre, and Bill Link were present, as well as Mayor Pro Tem Adam Rush and Mayor Ike Bootsma. Julie Velasquez, the first Student Liaison to the City Council, was also present. The invocation was led by Pastor Dennis Morales from Calvary Chapel. Two presentations were given by Waste Management. First, the Recycle All Star Awards were given to two local families and one business for their positive recycling habits during 2013. Second, a Recycle Bank Program update was provided.

During the Public Comment/Citizen Participation section of the meeting, Curtis Seymour from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints offered to help provide volunteers from the church to assist in various community service activities in the City. Dickie Simmons expressed his desire to continue open-forum events at the Town Hall meetings for entities who provide service to the community, and for citizens who wish to converse with City leaders in a casual manner. He went on to request that the City take over the Town Hall meetings and publicize them on the City notification website, so as to better inform the community about upcoming meetings. Finally, Kelly Howell requested that the City be conservative in their staffing.

On the Consent Calendar, Item 5.1 was approved 5-0; and Item 5.2 was approved 4-0-1, with Adam Rush abstaining due to his absence at the March 26 meeting.

In the Public Hearings section, Item 6.1 was discussed and involved Project No. 12-0750. There were three main aspects of the project: a change of zone, a major development review, and associated improvements. The Council moved to approve the project 4-1, with Welch voting no.

There were no Old Business items, so the meeting moved to New Business, as follows: Item 8.1 – The Council members moved to continue the Appointment of a Planning Commissioner to the Economic Development Committee to the next meeting under the condition that the three nominees would be present. It was approved 4-1 with DeGrandpre voting no; Item 8.2 – The Council members reviewed a Code Enforcement PowerPoint; Item 8.3 – The Policy for Considering General Plan Amendments was approved 5-0; and Item 8.4 – The Council approved the Cost Allocation Plan and OMB-A-87 Plan, 5-0.

The meeting adjourned at 8:38 p.m. with closing statements from the Council.

The April 23 City Council meeting began promptly at 6:30 p.m., with all members of City Council present. The invocation was led by Pastor Ed Moreno from New Day Christian Church. New Student Liaison, Julia Vasquez, was introduced to the Council. Julia will serve as Liaison through August. She is a senior at Roosevelt High School, as well as the current ASB president. The Eastvale Fire Department introduced their new Fire Inspector, Ken King, and there was a small presentation by Wildan Financial regarding the new Market Tax Credits.

The Council presented Eastvale Police Chief, Captain Danny Feltenberger, with a proclamation to thank him for his service to the City. Feltenberger will be heading to the Riverside County Gang Task Force and will be replaced with former Eastvale Police Chief, Captain Jason Horton, effective May 1.

All items on the Consent calendar were approved.

The highlight of the evening came from the presentation on the Leal Property. Eric Norris, Eastvale Planning Director, gave the presentation highlighting the City’s move toward a more flexible plan with input from property owner, Brad Leal. Leal gave a brief presentation. Councilmember Ric Welch questioned what the City has paid for, as it seemed that the Vision Plan wasn’t as far along as he thought and there seemed to still be a large amount of disagreement. Leal made it clear that he was in agreement with all aspects of the new vision plan with the exception of the high density housing. After a brief discussion and further explanation from Norris, the Council voted to approve the progression of the plan creation by staff, reflecting the new land use ideas.

In the new business section of the meeting, Mayor Ike Bootsma was appointed to the Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG) Executive Committee. Planning Commissioner, Larry Oblea, was appointed to the Economic Development Committee after some discussion and debate. The idea to possibly add another member of the Planning Commission to the Economic Development Committee was discussed and will be looked into at a future meeting. Joe Tessari and Karen Patel were also nominated. The City also approved a request for proposal for Eastvale Entryway Monument signs. Although there isn’t any funding for them at this time, City Manager, Carol Jacobs, hopes to put the estimated $40,000 cost into the 2014/2015 budget consideration under general funds. .

There was not a City Manager report. Julia Vasquez, the new Student Liaison gave an update. She spoke about her concern for the traffic on Scholar Way and would like to see the Walk to School Program expanded and extended. She has met with her high school principal as well as School Board member, Bill Newberry, about some ideas for an incentive program to encourage local children and high schoolers to walk to school to help ease traffic congestion.

The meeting adjourned around 8:15 p.m. with closing statements from Council.

 

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events 04.29.14

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:Events

 

National Child Abuse Prevention Month

When: Month of April

Where: Walnut Fire Station 61 (Lemon Avenue and La Puente Road)

Details: In support of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Walnut Valley Women’s Club facilitated the planting of a garden of pinwheels at Fire Station 61. The pinwheels will remain throughout the month of April. “Pinwheels for Prevention” is a Prevent Child Abuse America program which promotes the message that, “All children deserve an equal chance to thrive and grow.”

City of Walnut Children’s Dance Classes

When: Wed., April 30 – 5 Week Programs, $55

Where: Walnut Senior Center, 21215 La Puente Road, Walnut 91789

Details: Webby Dance Classes: For children 30 months to 6 years – A combination of tap, ballet and creative movement. Age appropriate fun with creative props. For children 5 to 10-years – A combination of jazz and hip hop with exciting routines to age appropriate music.

Contact: To register please call (909) 598-6200 or visit us online at www.ci.walnut.ca.us

DBHS Spring Musical “The Pirates of Penzance”

When: May 1, 2, 3 at 7 p.m.

Where: DBHS Theatre, 21400 E. Pathfinder Road in Diamond Bar

Details: Tickets sales are available at http://www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama. Sections B, C, D: Adults are $18, Students w/ID are $15. Sections A, E: Adults are $15, Students w/ID are $12.

Contact: Beatrice Casagran at (909) 594-1405, ext. 33276

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 DBAYSO.ORG for registration procedures for both volunteers and players ages 4 to 18.

Contact: Greg M. Busch, R31_Safety@dbayso.org

27th Annual St. Luke Parish Fiesta, Boutique and Car Show

When: April 25-27

Where: Temple City

Details: This year’s fiesta is set to be one of the most diverse and expansive events, with a car show, exhibitor and boutique area; Mega 50/50 raffle, Laser Tag area, photo booth, food court, entertainment, games and rides.

Contact: Mary Broomfield, Publicity Chair, (626) 201-4560.

21th Annual Diamond Bar Library Wine Soirée

When: Sunday, April 27

Where: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue in Diamond Bar

Details: An afternoon of delicious food from local restaurants, great wine from the Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition, music, and exciting book, silent and live auctions. A unique souvenir wine glass and program are included with each ticket. All of the proceeds go directly to your local community library.

Cost: Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $60 at the door.

Contact: (909) 861-2002

FUTURE EVENTS:

Music at the Point

When: Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: South Pointe Middle School, 20671 Larkstone Drive, Diamond Bar

Walnut Senior Center Peddler’s Market

When: May 3 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Walnut Senior Center

Details: Residents are encouraged to clean out those cupboards, closets, garages and become a vendor at the annual Peddler’s Market. Vendors may purchase two full parking spaces for $35 or three full parking spaces for $50.

Contact: Kim Watts at the Walnut Senior Center at (909) 598-6200.

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.

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: Heartbreak for Eastvale

Troy Davids, one of the two Eastvale residents killed in two separate accidents. Photo courtesy: Facebook

Troy Davids, one of the two Eastvale residents killed in two separate accidents.
Photo courtesy: Facebook

By Jennifer Madrigal

On the weekend of April 25, the deaths of two Eastvale residents, occurring just a day apart, have rocked the city. A young man who was reportedly on his way home from work was killed while crossing the street. The next evening, another Eastvale man was killed when a fun ride to show off his new off-road vehicle (ORV) went tragically wrong.

Early Friday morning, Troy Davids, 21, was on his way home from work when he was killed near the intersection of Hamner and Limonite. Deputies assigned to the area were called to the scene of a major injury collision on the west side of the intersection. According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the preliminary investigation revealed that a black sedan was travelling westbound on Limonite when it collided with a bicyclist, who was southbound on Hamner Avenue in the west crosswalk. The driver of the sedan fled the scene and police are currently searching for the driver. Davids was transported to a regional hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Troy Davids, a 2010 graduate of Norco High School, is described by a member of the Eastvale News Facebook page as “having a heart of gold and a smile to match. Words cannot describe the loss of Troy.” Another person described him as being “a wonderful young man who was a friend to everyone”. Troy worked at the local Von’s supermarket where he was loved and admired by his co-workers and will be greatly missed.

According to the City of Eastvale, the investigation is ongoing and the Sheriff’s Department is looking over video footage from nearby businesses in an effort to help gather more information and evidence about the hit-and-run suspect.

The very next evening, April 26, four men were taking a ride in an ORV in the empty dirt field located on the northeast side of the intersection at Sumner and Limonite avenues. While making a turn, the vehicle flipped and the driver was pinned underneath. Timothy Michael Hunt was found by Sheriff’s Deputies under the Polaris ORV. He was transported to a hospital where he died from his injuries. Another passenger was hospitalized for non-life threatening injuries, and the remaining two passengers were treated at the scene.

Hunt, a native of Yorba Linda, played three seasons of independent professional baseball. According to the Sioux City Journal, he was a 2007 member of Team USA, a team that finished second at the World Cup of Softball. Some residents remember him as an “amazingly generous guy” and a very special person who was newly married. Supposedly, he had been showing his new ORV off to his friends when the tragic accident occurred. According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, alcohol is suspected to be a factor in this incident.

Orange County: Murder Suspects Arraigned

BY EMILY LUNDBERGicon.crime.weekly.news

Santa Ana – Suspects in Orange County’s serial homicides were arraigned on March 15 according to a press release from the Anaheim Police Department. The arraignment came a little more than a month after their arrests on March 11.

The suspects, Franco Cano, 27, and Steven Dean Gordon, 45, were arrested for murdering four women, three of which were last seen in Santa Ana. The victims are as follows: Kiana Jackson, 20, a resident of Las Vegas who was last seen in Santa Ana on Oct. 6, 2013; Josephine Vargas, 34, a resident of Santa Ana who was last seen there on Oct. 24, 2013; Martha Anaya, 28, a resident of Santa Ana who was last seen there on Nov. 12, 2013; and Jarrae Nykkole Estepp, 21, an Oklahoma resident whose body was found on March 14 at an Anaheim recycling center. Estepp’s is the only body that has been found.

Detectives from the Anaheim and Santa Ana Police Departments are currently trying to identify a fifth victim who was last seen between February 14 and 16 near Katella Avenue. The victim is believed to be a petite African American woman in her early 20s.

Both Cano and Gordon have been previously convicted of committing “lewd or lascivious acts with a child under fourteen years of age,” according to California’s Sex Offender Registry. At the time of the crimes, both men were wearing GPS bracelets to track them because of these prior offenses. A Los Angeles County press release reported that both men had previously cut off their bracelets and fled to Nevada before being arrested again in 2012. Los Angeles County Supervisor, Michael Antonovoich, said, “This illustrates the fact that the ankle bracelets and GPS monitoring do not prevent crime.” Indeed this incident does provoke questions regarding the true effectiveness of bracelets including the extent to which they should be trusted to control and monitor criminals.

Eastvale: Crime Recap 04.29.14

STAFF REPORTS icon.crime.weekly.news

 

The following crime incidents have been reported by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and the City of Eastvale.

On Thurs., April 3, and Sun., April 6, officers assigned to the Eastvale Police Department responded to Chase Bank in reference to an attempted theft of the stand-alone ATM machine. Detectives assumed the investigation and later determined a separate ATM theft in the City of Hemet that occurred on April 11 in the 1800 block of East Florida Avenue was committed by the same suspects. In a collaborative effort between the Eastvale Detectives and the Hemet Police Department, the two suspects were located in Riverside. Due to the more serious crime of grand theft occurring in the Hemet Police Department’s jurisdiction, they assumed the investigation and the suspects were arrested and booked into the Southwest Detention Center for both the attempted thefts in Eastvale and the grand theft in Hemet. Ernest Brandon Causey, a 26-year old resident of Riverside was arrested for vehicle theft, conspiracy, grand theft, attempted grand theft and an outstanding misdemeanor warrant for petty theft. Causey is being held on $167,000 bail. Thomas Carlton Wilson, a 38-year old transient of Riverside was arrested for vehicle theft, conspiracy, grand theft, attempted grand theft and violation of parole. Wilson is currently being held without bail.

On Sat., April 5, at 12:30 a.m., officers assigned to the City of Eastvale responded to the area of Burrage and Rolling Meadows streets regarding the report of gunshots. Upon arrival officers located evidence that indicated someone was possibly shot and injured at that location. Within a few minutes, they received information that an adult female suffering from several gunshot wounds was dropped off in front of a local hospital. Officers discovered the female was shot by her estranged boyfriend, Alfredo Lopez, Jr., a 33-year old resident of Eastvale. After the shooting, Lopez drove the victim to a local hospital, where he dropped her off outside the front door and fled the area in his vehicle. Investigators received information that Lopez was in Los Angeles County and law enforcement agencies throughout Southern California were notified of this incident. At approximately 7:05 a.m., a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy spotted Lopez driving in the City of Hawaiian Gardens. When the deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Lopez’ vehicle, Lopez failed to yield and a pursuit was initiated. Lopez’ vehicle became disabled and he stopped in a parking lot near the intersection of Carson St. and Norwalk Blvd. Lopez barricaded himself inside his vehicle and refused to exit for several hours. At approximately 2:45 p.m., Lopez exited his vehicle and was placed under arrest. Lopez was turned over to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and transported back to Riverside County for further investigation. He was later booked into Robert Presley Detention Center for kidnapping and attempted murder.

On Thurs., April 24, at 3:07 a.m., officers from the Eastvale Police Department were investigating a suspicious person call in the 6500 block of Emerald Downs St. At the residence, officers found the rear door was forced open. Inside the residence, officers discovered an indoor marijuana grow operation. Officers from the City of Eastvale Special Enforcement Team responded and obtained a search warrant for the residence. They seized 429 marijuana plants, ten pounds of processed marijuana and packaging material.  Additionally, electricity was being bypassed around the meter, causing a serious fire hazard and resulting in approximately $6,250 per month in stolen electricity.

On Fri., April 25, at 12:12 A.M., deputies assigned to the City of Eastvale responded to a major injury traffic collision on the west side of the intersection involving a bicycle and a black sedan. The preliminary investigation revealed the black sedan was westbound on Limonite Avenue and collided into a bicyclist, who was southbound on Hamner Avenue in the west crosswalk.  The Eastvale Fire Department and American Medical Response (AMR) responded to the scene and treated the victim. The victim was transported to a regional hospital where he succumbed to his injuries. The victim’s name is being withheld pending notification of the next of kin. This case is still under investigation.

Chino: Planes of Fame Air Show

STAFF REPORTS

 

planes-of-fame-air-show-2014

Photo Courtesy: PlanesofFame.org

Chino – Look to the skies on the weekend of May 3 and 4 for “A Salute to the Mighty Eighth” as the exciting Planes of Fame soar at the Chino Airport.Mooney International Corporation will present this year’s air show featuring over 40 historic aircraft celebrating the history and contributions of the men, women and aircraft of the 8th Air Force. Performers include U.S.A.F. F-22 Raptor Demo Team and Heritage Flight, Sean D. Tucker-Team Oracle Aerobatics, The Bremont Horsemen, Sea Fury Aerobatics by Sanders Aeronautics, Clay Lacy’s Learjet Demonstration, Rob Harrison and the Tumbling Bear, John Collver’s AT-6 Aerobatics, and over 40 WWII aircraft including B-17, P-47s, and P-51s.

 

These incredible planes are exciting to behold. Exclusive access to their many charms is available through a special photographer’s Sunrise Photo Access pass so you can capture their beauty before the gates open.

 

In addition to many other fantastic airplanes performing, there will be a panel discussion with honored veterans of the 8th Air Force, including Clarence “Bud” Anderson, Jack Croul, Jim White, Wilbur Richardson, and George Thomas. This is an incredible event whether you are an aircraft enthusiast, or just looking to enjoy an amazing day.

 

The gates will open at 8 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, with the flying show running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Static displays and vendors will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with special merchandise and delicious food and beverages offerings available.

 

Adult General Admission tickets for ages 12 and above are $25. Children ages 11 and under are free, and must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. Sunrise Photo Access passes are $75 (available online). There are also special reserved bleacher seats available. For more information on this event, visit the website at http://www.planesoffame.org.

 

The airport and museum are located at 7000 Merrill Avenue, in Chino.

 

 

Eastvale: Mira Loma Thoroughbread Farm Becomes Cal Fire Training Ground

By JENNIFER MADRIGAL

mira-loma-thoroughbred-farm-goes-up-in-flames

The old Mira Loma Thoroughbred Farm up in flames. (Photo Courtesy: James Brantley)

Eastvale – If you grew up in or around Eastvale and Mira Loma, then you probably have fond memories of seeing the gorgeous horses running along the miles of white fences that used to surround the Mira Loma Thoroughbred Farm. The 100-acre property located just east of the 15 Freeway on Bellegrave and Wineville streets, was officially sold in 2005 for industrial development, but remained somewhat intact until April 19.

The once glorious home on the property was used in a variety of training and fire exercises by Cal Fire throughout Easter week, and was ultimately engulfed in flames. Eastvale residents were warned about the smoke and given updates throughout the week, but the final sight of the house being consumed caused many to reminisce. Tiffany Howard, an Eastvale resident who grew up in this area said, “I grew up wanting to live there and will miss that house”.

According to the June 2005 issue of Blood Horse Magazine, the Southern California real estate boom that peeked in 2005 was one of the main reasons that the popular thoroughbred farm shut down operations. The Mira Loma Thoroughbred Farm was purchased by Pete Valenti and partners from Verne Winchell in 1977, and nicknamed “Little Calumet” by Valenti. In its peek it was home to nearly 400 horses per year with about 100 foals born there annually.

Famous for its glistening white fences and red-roofed barns, it was a sight that many remember passing on the 15 Freeway. According to real estate reports, it housed a state-of-the-art training center with 124-stall barn and a five furlong training track, which took up 25 acres in the southeast corner. Besides its beauty, the farm raised many champions, but none as famous as Larry the Legend, owned and trained by Craig Lewis. During Legend’s career earnings of $652,825, he won three consecutive stakes at Santa Anita and according to track records, also earned Horse of the Meeting honors. Other famous horses like Native Storm, King Glorious, Valiant Pete and others also spent time at the Mira Loma Thoroughbred Farm.

Pete Valenti passed away unexpectedly in 1998 after undergoing heart bypass surgery and the ranch was left in the care of his wife and four children. When house values began to rise and the property‘s value escalated, it became difficult not to sell and according to Larry Lewis in an interview in the June 2005 issue of Blood Horse, they had to find a place to relocate the horses within a few weeks.

After the property was sold in 2005 it was occupied by various people, but the structures began to fall into disrepair. Cal Fire had been eyeing the property for the last month, and approached the developers about using it as a training facility. As soon as the current occupants left, Cal Fire was able to get in and begin the process of clearing out the carpet and plastics as required by the Air Quality Management District (AQMD). Cal Fire was granted just ten days to conduct all of their prep and exercises, so coordination and efficiency were important.

Tony Mecham, Division Chief with Riverside County Cal Fire said that training exercises began as soon as the property was ready. Firefighters from Rubidoux, Lake Elsinore, Jurupa Valley and Eastvale were all able to get live fire training. Mecham said, “That’s over 150 firefighters that we were able to get through the exercises in six days. This exercise provided an excellent opportunity for all of them”.

In addition, the vast amount of clear space around the structure made it the ideal place to house these training exercises. They came to a conclusion when the structure was completely engulfed in flames and allowed to basically burn down. Usually these training exercises end with demolition, but, according to Mecham, the fire got a little out of control and the decision was made to pull the firefighters out for safety and allow the structure to burn down.

According to the Jurupa Valley City Hall, no permits or plans have been made for the large parcel of land. The property is owned by IDI Development and the area is still zoned for industrial use, so there is a good chance that something will appear in the not too distant future.

Although the massive amounts of smoke and large flames could be seen from the 15 Freeway, causing many traffic delays, the experience for firefighters to be a part of such a unique training experience was unparalleled. For some Eastvale residents this property will be missed, but others feel that the training exercise really helped increase their respect for firefighters. Eastvale News Facebook friend, Julie Eskandari, expressed it best by saying, “Seeing these pictures really makes me admire our firefighters even more. Only the bravest men and women would choose to enter that [structure]”.

 

Diamond Bar Resident Allegedly Steals Mother’s Memories

STAFF REPORTS

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Photo released shows a couple using Norris’ stolen credit cards. (Photo Courtesy: Murrieta Police Department)

Murrieta – On March 31 Ashley Norris’ purse was taken from a locker at a Murrieta LA Fitness. The purse contained some of the toys belonging to Norris’ infant son, who died last year.

 

According to Murrieta Police, two people were suspected of stealing Norris’ purse and they were able to pull surveillance images of a couple who were allegedly using the victim’s stolen credit cards. Norris, who was devastated by the loss of these precious toys, reached out to various media outlets and handed out flyers at the gym in an effort to find any information. On April 18, Murrieta Police announced that through several anonymous tips and leads, the suspects were identified as Amanda Sander, a Diamond Bar resident, and Romulo Castaneda. Sander was taken into custody early last week and booked into the Los Angeles County Jail on an unrelated charge.

 

According to local reports, Sander was interviewed but refused to cooperate. Sander was linked to the case after she gave the stolen purse to a friend who did cooperate with the investigation. When the purse was recovered by detectives, the toys were not in the bag and as of now have not been located.

 

Castaneda had been unknown, but last week he was tracked down to a Chino Hills motel and arrested without incident. He was transported back to Murrieta for questioning. Castaneda gave a statement, but was unable to give a location of the toys, according to Murrieta Police. Castaneda was arrested and booked into Murrieta Jail on charges of fraud, burglary and identity theft.  He posted $5,000 bail and was released Friday, according to jail records. Sander remains in jail in Los Angeles County. At this time Ashley Norris remains without the toys that are a precious memory of her late son. According to a Patch interview, she is hoping that Sander will eventually cooperate and at least tell her if they were thrown away so she can have some peace.

San Gabriel Valley: Did You Know?

STAFF REPORTS

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San Gabriel Area Tongva Villages (Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

San Gabriel Valley – The Tongva, part of the Uto-Aztecan Native Americans originally occupied and land along the Rio Hondo River, which is a branch of the San Gabriel River. Long before the Spaniards explored the area, they made their homes in a large part of the Los Angeles basin, including Santa Catalina and other local islands. And, the Hahanogna Tribe, a division of the Tongva, occupied the northern part of the valley down toward Pasadena.

 

The Tongva were a beautiful people, who tattooed their bodies, and men and women alike wore long hair. They lived in dome-like buildings with thatched exteriors and used ti’ats, or plank-type canoes, for water travel.

 

With a language referred to as “Gabrielino” by the Spaniards, the Tongva are responsible for many of the city names we currently use today: Pomona was called Piwongna; Pasadena was Pasakeg-na, and Cucamonga was referred to as Cucomog-na. Today, several groups of the Tongva people still live in the area.

 

Is Your Dryer “Fire-Safe”?

By STAFF REPORTS

angiel-air-hvac-work truck

Fifteen years experience providing heating, ventilation and AC services that keep your home comfortable and safe. (Photo Courtesy: Angiel Air)

Most of us don’t give much thought about our dryers unless they are broken. However, a poorly maintained dryer could be a potential fire hazard. According to a report, “Clothes Dryer Fires in Residential Buildings,” that was issued by FEMA’s U.S. Fire Administration in 2010, the failure to clean dryer vents is the leading factor contributing to the ignition of clothes dryer fires in residential buildings. Dust, fiber, and lint are, by far, the leading items first ignited in clothes dryer fires. Most of the lint that is created from clothes tumbling in the dryer is caught in the filter but it also accumulates in the dryer and in the vents. Lint is a very combustible material and as it builds up it can overheat and a possible fire can ensue.Angiel Air is a heating, ventilation and air conditioning service that is located in Eastvale at 12672 Limonite Ave, Suite 3E-199. Of their many services, Angiel Air offers dryer vent cleaning. They have over 15 years experience in heating and cooling, and all of their technicians are professionally trained to provide their customers with the highest level of service. With the heat of summer right around the corner, isn’t it time to have your Air Conditioning checked and your dryer vents cleaned? Call Angiel Air today at (909) 923-9086, and keep your home cool and safe this summer.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

City of Industry: Brutal Arson Death Investigation

STAFF REPORTSicon.crime.weekly.news

City of Industry – Somewhere there are answers to the questions surrounding the heartbreaking events that led to a man, naked, reportedly beaten, bound and set on fire; a man who had the fortitude to somehow crawl up an embankment trail to the 605 freeway.

In a news release issued by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau and Arson Explosive Detail, an adult male was found on the northbound 605 Freeway, just north of the 60 Freeway at about 1:49 p.m. on Tues, April 15. Multiple motorists called in the incident.

Reports say that detectives believe the victim appears to have come from the wash area below the freeway. His arms and legs were partially bound, and he had severe burns to his face and body. Detectives are looking for evidence of a fire in the vicinity.

The man, who was reportedly in his 30s, has not yet been identified. He succumbed to his injuries on Wed., April 16 at USC Medical Center. No arrests have been made.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. Anonymous tipsters may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, text “TIPLA” plus the tip to 274637, or use the website at http://lacrimestoppers.org.

La Puente: Nogales High-The March of A Lifetime

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Nogales High School Band Director Brad Pollock with students after learning in a surprise announcement they are one of only ten bands in the U.S. to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2015. The Nogales High School Noble Band will represent California and the West Coast in the legendary parade. (Photo courtesy: Nogales High School)

STAFF REPORTS

La Puente – On April 14 in a surprise announcement, the Nogales High School Noble Regiment received the news that they have been selected to once again perform in the 2015 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The Noble Regiment will join the line of march and begin their performance to the sound of, “Let’s Have a Parade,” the iconic phrase that has signaled the start of every Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade since 1924. They will join nine other marching bands from across the country as well as fantastic floats, sky high giant character balloons, wacky clowns and superstar performers on Thanksgiving Day 2015. With more than 3.5 million live spectators and 50 million at-home viewers, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is considered the beginning of the holiday season and the ultimate Thanksgiving Day treat for fans of all ages.

 

Brad Pollock, band director of the Nogales High School Noble Regiment said, “Amazing, stunned, excited are just a few words that can barely explain the honor that has been bestowed upon the Noble Regiment to represent California in the Macy’s Parade in 2015. The students should get all of the credit. The memory of the event will last a lifetime. The opportunity to perform in the Parade once was incredible, but to be invited back really is something special. It is a true indication of consistent hard work, dedication, and a love to perform, paying off. We look forward to this event and can’t wait to get our groove on, down Broadway. Go Nobles!”

 

Dr. Sergio A. Canal, principal of Nogales High School added, “I am proud of the dedicated effort of our students, parents and staff of the Noble Regiment. They have all invested valuable time into making our band a nationally recognized band; this honor of being invited back to the Macy’s Parade is indicative of this recognition.  The Noble Regiment will represent Nogales High School and the Rowland Unified School District, not to mention the West Coast, with great pride.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eastvale: Leal Project Advances to Next Step

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Brad Leal speaks to the Eastvale City Council

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL 

Eastvale – The Leal Property, a 160-acre parcel of some of the last open land in Eastvale, has been a popular subject around the community. The land is owned by dairyman Brad Leal, who has tried to work with the City of Eastvale in developing a plan that brings his ideas into juxtaposition with what is best for the City. Leal has long been a proponent of ensuring what is most beneficial to Eastvale as a neighborhood is built on his property. The idea for a “downtown feel” is one that Leal is adamant about maintaining. He has worked with the City on making that dream a reality and at the City Council meeting on Wed., April 21, it seemed that Leal and the City are one step closer to making his dream come to life.

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

Since February’s Leal Property update, the Leal family and the City have been busy moving away from the strict “bubble map” version of the property layout, which included exact sections to be developed (i.e. commercial in one specific area, retail in another), and moved more toward a flexible approach. The City sat down with Mr. Leal, who was concerned with the property plan being “too specific” about where things are and showing too little retail development. The City then took his comments and came up with a new, more flexible approach.

The New Leal Property Plan allows more retail to occur, doesn’t specify locations and uses at this time, and focuses on setting a higher bar for the quality of development. The new plan calls for 326,700 to 1,300,000 square feet of commercial development, up to 920,000 square feet of office/medical development, up to 450 hotel rooms, a possible Civic Center, as well as medium and high density housing. The plan also includes many community features like open spaces and entry features.

Leal and the City have been able to agree on most of the plan with the exception of the high density housing. Leal wants to ensure that the city remains flexible to development and that there aren’t any “dead spaces.” Councilmember Bill Link seemed to have the same concern but was informed that this housing doesn’t necessarily have to be in a certain area of the property development, but instead can be a more integrated part of the overall plan. Also, according to Eastvale’s Planning Director, Eric Norris, if the project is successful, then high density housing may not even have to be built at all.

The next step is to formalize a Vision Plan that will reflect this new land use concept. The City hopes to get this reflected into some type of brochure that will describe the land use ideas to potential developers by showing them that this project is open for business and they need only bring us their ideas. Members of the City and City Council will be attending the International Council of Shopping Centers Conference in May 2014, where many developers attend; this will allow them to get the project out to interested parties.

Once this Vision Plan has been created, the next step is the Specific plan. This will provide processes and act as more of a rule book to continue to guide the project to fruition. The City Council agreed to harmonize with the general direction that the plan is going in.

Leal, who has remained adamant about emphasizing a Downtown Eastvale area and maintaining quality for the people of Eastvale, got up to speak many times during the presentation. He explained that his original idea for a downtown “contained pockets for whatever gets built there”. He wants to make sure that the City and future developers provide a destination where all the different aspects of a downtown area blend seamlessly together. According to Leal, “This is a big project and it will develop slowly. I don’t want some guy to just come in and build a big building.” Instead Leal hopes that it will come in phases of construction and establish a real downtown Eastvale feeling.

For this project, which is roughly the same size as Victoria Gardens, attention to the finer details and the overall feel of community is apparent in Leal’s determination to ensure that it is developed in the best interest of everyone involved. The project will be a large part of Eastvale and there are many who hope it will serve as a “landmark,” bringing in jobs, business and revenue for our ever growing city.

For a dairy farmer who has been an integral part of this community, it’s about seeing his dreams and hopes come together in unison with the ideas and hopes of both the City and the Eastvale Residents.

Walnut: City Council Swears in Pacheco and Su

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

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Mary Su being sworn into office in front of more than 100 attendees. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza

Walnut City Hall was the site of much celebrating, with council members Bob Pacheco and Mary Su being sworn into office in front of more than 100 City Council attendees, after months of campaigning.

 

“To Walnut residents, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your tireless encouragement,” Su said. “I knew this race was going to be nasty and ugly, but in the end most Walnut residents voted and cared about the important issues.”

 

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Bob Pacheco sworn in after months of campaigning.

Pacheco thanked the Walnut residents for their support and thanked his wife, Gayle, and his daughter, Cristina, for all of their help during the election.

 

Both Pacheco and Su said that while the election campaign was an arduous task, they were both ready to serve the residents of Walnut for another four year term on the Walnut City Council.

“I’m going to keep my toes to the fire and do all the things I said I would do during my campaign,” Pacheco said. “Walnut will be the shining star of the San Gabriel Valley.”

 

After a brief recess, the City Council members then approved the minutes of the joint meeting of the City Council and Sheriff on March 5, and a special City Council election on March 10.

 

Council members then approved Item 4 on the agenda, concerning the community development block grant three year cooperation agreement between the City and the County of Los Angeles from 2015-2017.

 

The Council then approved Items 5 and 8 regarding the resolution of the City of Walnut allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $1,058,090.76 and a ratification of various commission appointments for the City’s parks and recreation and senior commissions.

 

Council member Nancy Tragarz pulled Items 6 and 7 on the consent calendar, concerning a salary adjustment to include a cost of living adjustment retroactive to Jan. 1 and the signing of a contract amendment for the City Manager’s agreement. Tragarz stated that the two items felt “incomplete” and City Council members did not have all the information available to make an accurate decision, and asked to move the items to a different City Council meeting. Following a slew of comments from City Council members, the two items were then moved to be discussed at a later date.

After the Council’s meeting items were completed, the Housing Authority approved a resolution concerning the Walnut Housing Authority allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $20, 319.25 before entering a closed session concerning a negotiation of real property for Richard and Nancy McDonald.

 

The meeting was adjourned with the next City Council meeting scheduled for Wed., May 7 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Eastvale: God’s Building Program

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

BY PASTOR ROB NORRIS

 

“Therefore everyone who hears these words of Mine and acts on them, may be compared to a wise man who built his house on a rock,” (Matthew 7:24).

In the 1870s, when the citizens of Swan Quarter, North Carolina, began looking for a piece of property for a new church building, their sights fell on a nice piece of elevated land where the structure would be reasonably protected from coastal flooding. But the landowner had more lucrative plans for the property and declined their offer.

So the church was built on another site and dedicated on Sept. 16, 1876. Within a matter of days, however, a monster hurricane reached landfall at this precise location. One casualty of the storm was the brand new Swan Quarter United Methodist Church, which was lifted up off its pilings by the surging tide of storm water and carried north—floating, intact—and then inexplicably east, eventually coming to rest on the very tract of land its leaders had originally requested. As legend tells it, the property owner came with trembling hand to sign over the title deed to the church.

Yes, God is in control. Since 1994, as I have attempted to walk with God, on more than one occasion I have had to admit that I don’t have the foggiest idea about what He is up to. He is God and I am not. I don’t understand the loss of a child, a chronic or terminal illness, the death of a young mom or dad, and a thousand other things that make zero sense, humanly.

What I do know from the Scriptures is that God has a unique purpose for every person and for everything that happens to us. He made us to trust Him, regardless of the circumstances. And that is reflected in the new name of that Methodist church in North Carolina that God moved to solid ground: Providence United Methodist Church.

Live it: What are you or a family member facing right now that is testing your trust in God? What are your alternatives?

Pray: Confess any lack of belief in God that He is in control, and express your faith that you want to trust Him because He does know what He is doing, even if you don’t.

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 www.atthecrossings.com.

 

Eastvale: High School Happenings

 

Eleanor Roosevelt High School Eastvale

Eleanor Roosevelt High School Eastvale
(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

BY REZA MORENOEastvale – The school year at Eleanor Roosevelt is coming to an end, but spring sports are just beginning. The weather is finally cooling off so it’s perfect for the track and field athletes to give it their all and win league for the sixth time in a row for the boys, and fourth time for the girls.

 

At their first invitational, the Chet Nicholson Relays, many records were broken. The highlight of the day was when the girls hurdle team, including April Sutton, Jaela Williams, Jasmyne Graham, and Tyler Beale, came in with a time of 1.03.03. They broke the previous record by 1.5 seconds. Senior Taisyn Crutchfield met a record with a time of 12.25 in the girls’ open 100m. As for the girls’ distance runners, Jana Warrick, Elizabeth Unzueta, Crystal Valiente, and Jaden Warrick ran the number two time in history in the 4×1600. The boys’ team also did an amazing job. David Potts heaved a 152’10 in the boys’ discus throw. Evan Singletary ran in the boys’ open 100 with a time of 10.92, and junior Branden Randall won first place in the boys’ open mile. As for the track and field’s first league meet against Santiago on March 20, both the girls and boys team came in first place. Good way to start off the season and defend your title, athletes!

 

The softball team started off their pre-season having more wins than losses. Team captains, Delainey Thompson, who is on her way to Texas A&M International University with a scholarship, and Jessica Flores, are both trying their best to get to league for the first time in school history. Right now they feel that they have a good chance. “Everyone is equal,” said Jessica Flores. Another senior on the team, Sam Saporito, received a scholarship to Eastern Michigan University. At the Corona Tournament on March 7 at Butterfield, the team beat Valley View with a score of 5-3. Their recent challenge is trying to pull together to raise batting averages. Out of their seven pre-season games, the girls won four, and are hoping to do their best for league meets which will be held April 16 at Santiago High, and on April 23 against Centennial High at home. Be sure to come out and support your fellow softball athletes and cheer them on.

 

As for the baseball players, they had three wins in their pre-season. Their first game was against Duarte on March 3, with a score of 6-0. They also Damien and won with a score of 3-2. On March 5, the team beat Diamond Ranch High by 7-3.  Although they lost the last few games, the team is working hard to make sure they accomplish as many wins as possible during their league games this month.

 

Boys’ tennis is also having a great start. Senior Captain, Andy Sung, personally won two-thirds of his games and hopes to go to CIF individually along with his fellow teammates. As for pre-season, the team won two games. They beat Lake Elsinore and Colony, and they felt very accomplished. Their main challenge is that their doubles aren’t as solid as the team would like, but they are improving every day. Their coach’s goal is to have the team end the season with more wins than last year. As of right now, rival Norco High is on their back and they hope to beat them in the upcoming league meet.