Category Archives: News By City

San Gabriel Valley: Building Better Families

 BY NANCY STOOPS

 

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

Every week in my groups and my private sessions, I hear the same things over and over. Parents want to become more effective and their teens want more freedom. I tell my clients that are trying to become better parents they must learn to be consistent. They must learn to follow through with what they say they are going to do. I tell my teens that they will earn more freedom if they do what is expected of them. 

It’s very easy for me to tell people what they need to do. The problem for my clients comes from actually having to do the work. It’s hard to break old negative behavioral patterns and replace them with healthy ones. Our children, and people in general, want us to be consistent with them. I think consistency allows people to know what to expect and that makes them feel secure. I think when we are inconsistent, especially with our children, we really create a reason for them not to respect us. We then believe we have a reason not to give them freedom, because of how they treat us. It really is a vicious cycle. As parents, we need to lead our children by teaching them how to respect us. We instill respectful behavior by creating loving, consistent, and fair rules within our homes.

 

There is so much uncertainty going on in our world right now. Many people are feeling unsure about the future. I think this is a good time to try to make your family stronger and find some peace and comfort. If we can start to do this within our families, then who knows what we can do as a world? I wish you all some peace and comfort in these very uncertain times.

 

This article was written by Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens. For more information about any of these services feel free to page her at (626) 935-3818. You may also email her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. Nancy’s book, “Live, Heal and Grow” is available for purchase at www.RoseDogBookstore.com or Amazon.com.

Eastvale: Meet One Of Our Chamber Members: Michael Offutt

Eastvale Chamber Member Michael Offutt

New Eastvale Chamber Member: Michael Offutt

Michael has been a part of the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce since his Eastvale office of The Joint… the Chiropractic Place, opened in May of 2013. He started as a participant and quickly realized that he wanted to take a more active role in the Chamber.Shortly after he joined, he became an Ambassador in order to provide more assistance. After serving as an Ambassador for the remainder of 2013, he decided that he wanted to be a more integral piece in the development of the Chamber. He currently serves as a Board Member, Director of Public Relations, and Ambassador Liaison as he still has great love for the Ambassador Program.

Michael has a background in Human Resources and Retail Management. “I look forward to assisting the Chamber grow and solidify its brand in not only Eastvale, but also Eastvale’s neighboring communities!”

Diamond Bar: Diamond Ranch Basketball Takes CIF’s Top Academic Honors

The Diamond Ranch Girls’ Varsity Basketball team

The Diamond Ranch Girls’ Varsity Basketball team: Front Row: Kristen Sheriff, Lauren Graves, Tianna Eaton, Cayla Freeman, Sarah Krestchmar. Back Row: Assistant Coach Lisa Cheney, Emilee Dy, Kiana Wright, Brenna Collins, Catrina Freeman, Nicole Nishimura, Paulena Luk, Head Coach Mike Power

 

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Ranch Girls’ Varsity Basketball team has been awarded the CIF Southern Section‘s Team Academic Award.

 

The award honors the team with the highest grade point average (GPA) in its category (schools with more than 1,500 students enrolled). In the case of the Diamond Ranch team, the girls finished first against 278 other regional high schools. In order to be considered for this accolade the team must possess a grade point average of 3.0.

 

“This achievement is the pinnacle of what we strive for at Pomona Unified, athletic prowess as well as academic excellence,” said Richard Martinez, superintendent of Pomona Unified. “We’re so proud of them all.”

 

The team will be honored prior to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim Baseball game on Tues., April 29 against the Cleveland Indians. The ceremony will take place on the field prior to the 7 p.m. game start (approximately 6:45 p.m.).

 

“I am so proud of our student athletes on the Girls’ Varsity Basketball team; they have made DRHS history and District history,” Suzanne Steinseifer-Ripley, principal of Diamond Ranch High School said. “They are achieving our Diamond Ranch vision of preparing first class citizens with a world class education.”

 

Eastvale: Election Season Kicks-Off at Bootsma Ranch

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – With November’s City Council election season getting closer, some candidates have already thrown their hats in the ring. Current Planning Commissioner, Joe Tessari, and current City Council member, William Link, took part in a Chili Dinner Fundraiser at the Bootsma Ranch Sat., April 12.

The event was a re-election fundraiser for Corona Norco School Board Member Bill Newberry, but Newberry also invited a few city council candidates to participate. The evening proved to be a great way for candidates to introduce themselves to the community and also to begin the fundraising process.

During the fundraiser event, City Council hopeful, Joe Tessari, spoke about his wish to continue his service to the community by becoming part of the council. Tessari has served on the Eastvale Planning Commission for the last three years. Current Council member, Bill Link, also addressed the community and promised to run an open campaign, as he is a very open person and always tries to find the answers needed.

According to the City of Eastvale website, “City Council members are elected at-large for a four year term. Council Members serve “staggered” terms, meaning that either two or three seats are open for election every two years. Council Members receive a $400 per month stipend as compensation for their service”.  The current City Council consists of Mayor Ike Bootsma, Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush, Jeff DeGrandpre, Bill Link and Ric Welch.  Adam Rush, Link (who replaced Kelli Howell’s vacated seat in 2013) and Welch’s spots are the three seats that will be up for election in November.

As the election season draws closer, more candidates are expected to come forward and announce their candidacy. Some have even begun to go door to door and introduce themselves to the community. Some previous candidates from the City Council Elections in 2012 and 2013 have already began “pounding the pavement” in hopes of getting their names out there and letting the community know their intentions. And there are others, who are quietly contemplating running and planning their next move.  In an affluent city like Eastvale – with its high public safety, education and income rankings, as well as an extremely active and in-touch community – a City Council seat holds a lot of prestige.

The process to become a candidate starts early and prior to soliciting or receiving any contributions related to candidacy, aspirants must file a Statement of Intention with the City Clerk’s Office. There are also additional filing requirements that are dependent on the amount of contributions anticipated. The official filing period begins on July 14 and ends August 8 of this year. To become a candidate, according to the City of Eastvale’s City Clerk’s office, you must first be issued a Nomination Paper which specifies the office you are seeking. You must also obtain the signatures of at least 20 and not more than 30 registered voters within the City of Eastvale.

To qualify as a candidate for the City Council, you must reside and be registered to vote within the jurisdiction at the time nomination papers are issued. More specifically, you must be:

  • At least 18 years old.
  • A U.S. Citizen.
  • A resident of the City of Eastvale.
  • Registered to vote in the city.
  • You must not be on parole or serving time for any felony conviction.

To find out more information about this process, visit the City of Eastvale’s website at http://www.eastvaleca.gov/.

 

Chino Hills: Did You Know?

Chino Hills California

The beautiful Chino Hills
(Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)

STAFF REPORTS 

Chino Hills has a lot going for it. Not only was this beautiful suburb ranked number 34 in Money Magazine’s “Best Places to Live in 2012”, it was also ranked as the 13th safest city in the U.S. by the FBI in 2008.

 

The hills that roll through the city were used quite extensively for cattle grazing back in the late 1700s as large Mexican Republic ranches such as Santa Ana del Chino and Rancho La Sierra Yorba occupied the area. Once Mexico Ceded California to the U.S., the land slowly evolved into a tourist destination because of its beauty (and even a bootlegger’s destination because of its seclusion). Development made its way around the swampy areas known as Prado Dam, and Chino Hills was born, eventually incorporating in 1991 with a population of 42,000.

 

14,102 acres of those beautiful hills are still preserved within Chino Hills State Park, the largest California State Park within an urban setting. With 65 miles of trails for hiking, biking and equestrian use, the Park still encourages tourists to come to Chino Hills.

 

 

EASTVALE: Captain Horton to Replace Captain Feltenberger

INFORMATION COURTESY  CITY OF EASTVALE

admin14-0423-CaptJasonHortonSheriff Stan Sniff appointed Captain Jason Horton as the new Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station Commander. He will replace Captain Dan Feltenberger, whom Sheriff Stan Sniff appointed to lead the Riverside County Regional Gang Task Force (GTF), a multi-agency regionalized task force comprised of local, state, and federal law enforcement officers focused on the suppression, prevention and intervention of criminal street gangs. Captain Horton and Captain Feltenberger will officially begin their new duties on May 1, 2014.

Captain Horton has over 20 years of full-time law enforcement experience, all with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. Prior to his full-time employment, he volunteered for 4 years as a Reserve Deputy Sheriff with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. As a reserve, he was assigned to the former Riverside Station, which provided patrol services to the communities now patrolled by the Jurupa Valley Station.

Captain Horton has worked the Corrections Division as a deputy sheriff, sergeant, lieutenant, and captain. He recently commanded the Coordinated Custody Management Unit, which oversaw AB109 related issues in the department’s corrections division. Captain Horton has worked in the Field Operations Division at the Hemet Sheriff’s Station, the Perris Sheriff’s Station, and the Jurupa Valley Station as a deputy sheriff, corporal, sergeant, and lieutenant. He has also held assignments at the Ben Clark Training Center and the Sheriff’s Special Investigations Bureau.

When Captain Horton’s family moved to California from Indiana in the early 1970’s they first settled in Jurupa Valley where he attended elementary school for several years. While assigned to the Jurupa Valley Station as a deputy and corporal, Captain Horton served in patrol and as a School Resource Officer at Jurupa Valley High School. As a lieutenant, Captain Horton worked on the team responsible for forming the contracts for police services with the cities of Eastvale and Jurupa Valley. He served as the first Assistant Chief of Police for the city of Eastvale.

Captain Horton graduated in 2006 from the Sherman Block Leadership Institute (SLI) and holds a Bachelor’s degree from Cal State University San Bernardino and a Master’s degree from the University of Redlands. Captain Horton is a school board member for St. Catherine of Alexandria School in Riverside and is a supporter of athletics for Notre Dame High School. He is married with four children and resides in the city of Riverside

EASTVALE: DUI/Drivers License Checkpoint Scheduled April 25

RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’s DEPT. PRESS RELEASE

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department / Jurupa Valley Station / Eastvale Police Department will be conducting a DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint on April 25, 2014, at an undisclosed location within the city limits between the hours of 7:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m.

The deterrent effect of DUI checkpoints is a proven resource in reducing the number of persons killed and injured in alcohol or drug involved crashes. Research shows that crashes involving an impaired driver can be reduced by up to 20 percent when well-publicized DUI checkpoints and proactive DUI patrols are conducted routinely.

In California, this deadly crime led to 774 deaths because someone failed to designate a sober driver. Nationally, the latest data shows nearly 10,000 were killed by an impaired driving. “Driving while under the influence of an alcoholic beverage or drugs is a choice. When someone choses to drive under the influence, they put themselves and the entire community at risk,” said Sgt. Jason Edmonson.

Officers will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment with officers checking drivers for proper licensing delaying motorists only momentarily. When possible, specially trained officers will be available to evaluate those suspected of drug-impaired driving.

Recent statistics reveal that 30 percent of drivers in fatal crashes had one or more drugs in their systems. A study of active drivers showed more tested positive for drugs that may impair driving (14 percent) than did for alcohol (7.3 percent). Of the drugs, marijuana was most prevalent, at 7.4 percent, slightly more than alcohol.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), checkpoints have provided the most effective documented results of any of the DUI enforcement strategies, while also yielding considerable cost savings of $6 for every $1 spent. Nearly 90 percent of California drivers approve of DUI checkpoints.

DUI Checkpoints are placed in locations based on collision statistics and frequency of DUI arrests affording the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driving deterrence. Locations are chosen with safety considerations for the officers and the public.

Drivers caught driving impaired can expect the impact of a DUI arrest to include jail time, fines, fees, DUI classes, other expenses that can exceed $10,000 not to mention the embarrassment when friends and family find out.

Eastvale: Corona Norco Unified School District Begins Student City Council Liason Position

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

 

Eastvale – At the City of Eastvale’s March 12 City Council meeting, CNUSD (Corona Norco Unified School District) Board Member, William (Bill) Newberry, was present to discuss the idea of instating a volunteer student liaison to the Eastvale City Council. The concept behind involving a student liaison in the Council meetings would be to engage local youth in the governmental process, as well as assisting elected officials who are seeking solutions to community problems.

 

According to Newberry, the concept involves one student per semester that would be selected by Eleanor Roosevelt High School staff. This student representative would join the City Council members at meetings, but would not be a voting member of the council.  The liaison would be responsible for conducting the flag salute at each meeting, coordinating and presenting special student certificates, working with the Eastvale schools to obtain an update to provide during the City Council meetings, and writing a brief report that will include bullet points from each school site.

 

This liaison is selected from either incoming or current seniors at Eleanor Roosevelt High School. Each student will serve for approximately three months, with one student covering the July-August Council meetings while school is not in session.

 

When presented with the idea, the Eastvale City Council expressed a few concerns, such as who would be in charge of selecting the student liaison and how long a single student would remain in the position.  Aside from that, the Council seemed pleased with the idea not only to further the knowledge of a select few students, but to encourage more of the local youth to be an active part of their community.

 

The first school liaison selected was Julia Vasquez, a senior. She attended her very first City Council meeting on April 9.

 

Walnut: WV launches Trial Computer-Based Assessments

computer based assessmentsBy Kelli Gile

 

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District teachers and students have recently embarked on becoming part of an important milestone in the State’s transition to the new assessment system. New computer-based field tests, known as the “Smarter Balanced Assessments,” in English, Language Arts, and Math, launched on March 24 for all students in Grades 3 through 8 at Walnut High, and Grade 11 at Diamond Bar High. Walnut Valley’s testing window is March 24 through April 25.

 

“It is an exciting time in Walnut Valley as we embark on implementing the new Smarter Balanced computer-based assessments. Our teachers and students are excited to transition to this new testing system. Everyone involved in this year’s field test has been working together to ensure this field test is a positive and valuable experience for our students and staff, ” said Jackie Brown, Director of Educational Programs and Assessment.

 

“Students, teachers, and administrators will gain valuable hands-on experience in a new era of student assessments,” said State Superintendent of Public Instruction Tom Torlakson. It is a challenging transformation, but our schools are rising to that challenge with a great sense of excitement and determination,” he added.

 

This “test of the test” will help students and teachers prepare for next year’s first operational test.  Test questions are aligned with the Common Core State Standards adopted by California in 2010 to encourage critical thinking, complex problem solving, and deeper knowledge of subjects. It will also allow the District to assess the quality of the test questions and see how well our technical capabilities meet the demands of the computer-based assessments and see what resources our teachers and schools may yet need. Most importantly, it will give our students the opportunity to experience the new testing system. There will be no student, school, or district scores produced from this administration of the assessment.

 

“This field test gives us the opportunity to prepare our students for success,” Torlakson said. “The STAR program served us well for years, but the world has changed, and our schools also have to change the way they teach and test their students.”

 

Eastvale Resident Seeks A Kidney

 

Minor Family Seeks Kidney

Minor Family Seeks Kidney

By Jennifer Madrigal
Eastvale – Local Eastvale residents, Diana and Darryle Minor, have been quietly enduring a struggle that no family should have to face. Darryle was diagnosed with Polycystic Kidney Disease (PKD), which is a condition that causes the kidneys to become enlarged with multiple cysts. In Darryle’s case, the PKD progressed to the level where his kidneys were five times the normal size and were completely taken over by cysts. The condition has worsened drastically over the last two years. In December 2011, he started dialysis treatments because his kidney function was reduced to less than 15 percent. The disease further attacked his system to the point that his kidneys had to be removed on Aug. 29, 2013. He continues on dialysis.

The dialysis process is currently three visits each week, four hours each visit. The procedure leaves him weak and unable to work, and each visit usually takes the rest of the day to recover from. With two young children, a 10 -year old son, Darrian, and an 8-year old daughter, Dakota, Darryle is forced to watch life from the sidelines.

But Darryle’s wife, Diana, is on a quest to find a kidney for her husband. Although he has been on the waiting list for a kidney from a deceased donor for about two years, the wait is usually about eight to ten years. Darryle’s best chance for survival is a kidney from a living donor.

Most people are unaware that you can live a healthy, normal life with only one kidney. And that donating a kidney has nothing to do with ethnicity as in incidents of bone marrow. The Live Donor process has more to do with blood type and overall health of the donor.

The Minors are sharing their story hoping that someone out there would consider being tested in consideration as a possible donor for a kidney transplant. A kidney from a living donor has the potential of lasting almost twice as long as a kidney from a deceased donor, and would enable Darryle to hopefully live a healthy and normal life. This act of extreme kindness would help Darryle give his family back the father and husband that he longs to be once again.

If you or someone you know would be interested in the Living Donor process to help Darryle, please contact Louisa K. Machain, the Living Donor Coordinator at Loma Linda University. She can be reached at (909) 558-3636, Extension 368002, or via email at lmachain@llu.edu. You can also contact her assistant, Lorena Aparicio, at Extension 36803. Diana Minor would also be happy to respond to any questions you might have. Please contact her at (951) 847-0178, or dyminor@csupomona.edu.

Leal Specific Plan To Be Discussed – April 23rd

Leal Property Aerial View Photo Courtesy: www.lealspecificplan.com

Leal Property Aerial View
Photo Courtesy: http://www.lealspecificplan.com

City council meeting is Wednesday April 23rd at 6:30 pm! Be there to hear more about this plan!

 Information: courtesy City of Eastvale
Posted Date: 4/21/2014 2:00 PM

CITY OF EASTVALE, CA (April 21, 2014) – At the April 23rd City Council Meeting, Council Members will be reviewing a draft of the proposed mix of uses to be built on the Leal Property at some point in the future. The land use mix includes retail for the “downtown” area, offices, civic uses (possibly a future city hall), and residential. If the proposed uses are approved by the City Council, the land use mix will be described in the “Vision Plan” and ultimately in the detailed planning document which will be prepared for the property.

The public will again have an opportunity to provide comments during this meeting. The City Council meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. at Rosa Parks Elementary School: 13830 Whispering Hills Drive, Eastvale 92880. The Public is highly encouraged to attend and provide their input on the project.  The land use program staff report is available for download on the City’s website (www.eastvaleca.gov) or the Leal Specific Plan website under documents: www.lealspecificplan.com/documents.

The meetings are open to the public to listen and participate. If you were unable to attend the last meeting (February 26, 2014), you can view the PowerPoint presentation to the City Council and Planning Commission at: www.lealspecificplan.com/documents.

For more information about the Leal Specific Plan, please visit: www.lealspecificplan.com

WALNUT: Aquarium on Wheels Visits Collegewood

Collegewood first graders got a close-up look at life-size inflatable great white shark during the Aquarium of the Pacific education assembly. Photo Credit: Kelli Gile

Collegewood first graders got a close-up look at life-size inflatable great white shark during the Aquarium of the Pacific education assembly.
Photo Credit: Kelli Gile

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Collegewood Elementary first graders experienced Pacific Journeys during an educational assembly presented by the Aquarium of the Pacific on April 11.

Students traveled the globe during the interactive presentation to learn about ocean inhabitants and their unique adaptations for survival in a watery world. Following the program, they experienced a hands-on opportunity to touch local marine life in the aquarium on wheels parked in front of the school.

“The program addresses sea life and how it connects to our world, perfect for our Common Core curriculum,” said teacher Jane Dyer-Smith.

The group of over 60 students squealed as a life-size elephant seal and 22-foot great white shark inflated right before their eyes. “The biggest great white was almost 8,000 lbs.,” said Aquarium educator, Nick Stong.

After the presentation, the youngsters went outside to the traveling aquarium for a close-up look at sea life. In groups of four, the children entered the ocean on wheels, keeping quiet so they wouldn’t scare the animals. They used two fingers to gently touch sea stars, sea anemones, sea urchins, starfish, and swell sharks kept in specialized touch tanks. It was an amazing interactive experience that the children really enjoyed.

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events week 04/21/2014

STAFF REPORTS

UPCOMING 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.”

DBHS Spring Musical “The Pirates of Penzance”
When: April 24, 25, 26 and 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: April 24, May, 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

An Evening to Honor Walnut Military and their Families
When: April 25, 6:30 p.m. to Midnight
Where: Diamond Bar Community Center
Details: Join the Walnut Military Support Group for an evening to honor and recognize military men, women and their families. Proceeds will be used to fund the various support systems that are being developed to extend to military members and their families. This newly formed committee is in direct partnership with the City of Walnut. The goal is to increase awareness and membership from residents in order to make a difference. The evening includes a buffet dinner, entertainment, dancing and a silent auction.
Cost: $30
Contact: The Walnut Military Support Group, Kris Aguilar, (909) 519-6465.

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.

Great Strides (Taking Steps to Cure Cystic Fibrosis)
When: April 26, 10 a.m. (Check-In 8:30 a.m.)
Where: Frank G. Bonelli Regional Park
Details: Faith Lutheran Church will once again be participating in the annual “Great Strides” 5K walk to raise funds for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Their team goal is to raise $3,000 and have 33 walkers.
Cost: $10 for the Faith Lutheran team shirts (with lunch served after the race). There is no fee for the walk; teams are raising money through sponsorships.
Contact: Elizabeth Crowther, (909) 592-7523 or ercrowther@yahoo.com to join Faith Lutheran Church. Sign up for the race at http://www.cff.org/greatstrides.

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
Details:

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.

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

WALNUT: Major Drop In Crime For Walnut-Diamond Bar

By K.P. Sander

Walnut-Diamond Bar – The citizens of Walnut and Diamond Bar have cause to be very proud of their local law enforcement. The dedication and commitment they have shown for the people they have sworn to protect is very apparent in the latest crime statistics.

According to Captain Jeff Scroggin of the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station, the area has shown significant decreases in crime rates. “The Part I crime rate for the entire area served by Walnut-Diamond Bar Station is down 25.79% as of April 16, 2014. The City of Walnut’s crime rate is down 46.5%. The City of Diamond Bar’s crime rate is down 27.9%, and the crime rate for the entire unincorporated areas served by our station is down 12.9%. Part I crime rates are based on the FBI’s Uniform Crime Index. The categories used for the FBI Uniform Crime Index are homicides, rapes, robberies, aggravated assaults, burglaries, larceny theft, grand theft auto and arson. The FBI uses these statistics to determine crime rates and these rates help us compare cities relative crime rates, and can help us determine which areas are the safest. It is always hard to place an exact cause on why crime rates go up and down because they always fluctuate based on the crime trends we face,” said Scroggin.

Scroggin also said that they have had some good fortune in seeing the categories of burglary and larceny theft rates lower in both of the contract cities and unincorporated areas. They have also made a number of excellent arrests related to burglary. The burglary and theft categories are typically the crimes that happen the most in the area and have the greatest impact on local crime rates.

“We usually have a very low incidence of any crimes classified as violent, such as homicide, rape, robbery and assault. Along with our contract cities, our station has been working hard to reenergize and increase our Neighborhood Watch program. This effort has been met with some renewed enthusiasm by all the communities we serve. Diamond Bar has supported a “Report for Reward” program to encourage residents to call whenever they believe criminal activity is occurring, and the City of Walnut also recently started a similar reward program. Diamond Bar has also hired an additional deputy to work on special problems within their community and the entire station is really focused on reducing the number of daytime residential burglary through increased patrols and greater community awareness of the crime trends facing our community,” Scroggin continued.

Captain Scroggin says that community involvement is the key in helping to keep crime rates low. He encourages everyone to become part of a Neighborhood Watch program, or even become a volunteer at the Sheriff’s Station to help with additional community patrols. The more the community is involved, the better they can be at keeping this area one of the safest in all of Southern California.

Find out more about getting involved in keeping your community safe by visiting the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station website at http://www.Walnut.DiamondBar.lasd.org. If you have information regarding a crime, you can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477); texting TIPLA plus your tip to 274637 (CRIMES); or visiting http://www.LACrimeStoppers.org.

WALNUT: Suzanne Teacher Named 2014 PBS Digital Innovator

Alice Chen

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Alice Chen, a Suzanne Middle School Language Arts teacher and Technology Coach, has been selected as one of the top 16 PBS Learning Media Digital Innovators for 2014.

An impressive group of 100 educators from across the country was named to the program in an announcement made April 7. In addition, the top 16 applicants will serve as leads of the program and will receive an all-expense paid trip to Washington, DC, on June 19 and 20, to participate in a digital education summit.

 

“I’m honored to have been selected, and I look forward to all the learning and collaboration that this opportunity will provide,” said Chen, who is also a Google Certified Teacher and a Microsoft Partners in Learning 2012 U.S. Forum Finalist.

The congratulatory letter from PBS Learning Media stated that Chen “stood out above the rest of the applicants for the nationwide program.” She was chosen as a program leader due to her overwhelming tech-savvy skills and passion for integrating digital media and technology in the classroom.

Chen’s favorite PBS Learning Media resource is the Global Learning and Diplomacy Collection.  Her students used this rich resource during their Global Awareness Speech Unit when they researched, wrote, and delivered a TED-style talk about pressing global issues in today’s world.

 

PBS Learning Media received hundreds of applications from leading K-12 teachers throughout the U.S. and its territories. An esteemed group of judges selected the 100 educators based on submissions of videos and written essays that addressed how they are leading innovation in digital teaching in their classrooms and schools. As a 2014 PBS Learning Media Digital Innovator, Chen becomes a member in a robust professional learning community with access to exclusive resources.

Eastvale: Distracted Driving Enforcement

Courtesy City of Eastvale

Eastvale, CA. – As part of April’s Distracted Driving Awareness Month campaign, the Eastvale Police Department has Distracted Driving Month joined with over 200 other local law enforcement agencies and the California Highway Patrol in a month long “zero tolerance” enforcement and education campaign to curb those texting or operating hand-held cell phones while driving. The Eastvale Police Department conducted a special high visibility enforcement operation to cite cell phone violators in the area of Roosevelt High School, River Heights Intermediate School and Harada Elementary School.
As a direct result of the operation, 34 drivers were cited for various unsafe driving conducts. The violations cited included cell phone violations, crosswalk right of way violations and seatbelt violations. One vehicle was stored during the operation.
The increased enforcement and education aims to persuade drivers to recognize the dangers of distracted driving and reduce the number of people impacted by this perilous behavior. The “It’s Not Worth It!” theme emphasizes that a phone call or text isn’t worth a hefty fine or a collision. The current minimum ticket cost is $161, with subsequent tickets costing at least $281.
“We take the issue of distracted driving very seriously,” said Eastvale Police Lt. Mike Yates, “because we see the aftermath of these totally preventable crashes. Is that text message or cell phone call really worth $161, or worse, someone’s life?”
Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves. In addition, studies show that texting while driving can delay a driver’s reaction time just as severely as having a blood alcohol content of a legally drunk driver. According to research, sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. Even a three second glance at freeway speeds means a driver has traveled the distance of a football field.
Research shows that there is no difference in the risks between hands-free and hand-held cell phone conversations, both of which can result in “inattention blindness” which occurs when the brain isn’t seeing what is clearly visible because the drivers’ focus is on the phone conversation and not on the road. When over one third of your brain’s functioning that should be on your driving moves over to cell phone talking, you can become a cell phone “zombie.”
Join the City of Eastvale in our support for the “It’s Not Worth it Campaign!” Cell phones, texting. It’s not worth it. It’s just that simple.
Resources from the California Office of Traffic Safety: http://ots.ca.gov/Media_and_Research/Campaigns/Distracted_Driving.asp

No Parking

 

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

My family and I came to our church here in Diamond Bar over 25 years ago.  Our church had only one building at that time and a limited number of parking spaces. On a big Sunday, we actually had to ask some people to park on the lawn.  Today, our worship center sits on the site where the lawn used to be. As our church grew over the years, we have been able to add some new buildings and increase the number of parking spaces on our property.

On Easter Sunday parking is always at a premium.  I’m sure this is true for most of the churches in our area.  You never have enough parking on Easter. Some churches provide shuttles from other parking lots nearby.  We don’t have a shuttle, but we have thought about asking our Junior High ministry to provide free Valet Parking (just kidding).

We have parking agreements with some of the businesses near our church.  They can use our parking lots during the week and we can use their lots on Sunday. We also ask people to “park and walk” by using these satellite parking lots and walking across the street to our campus. The result has been that on Easter Sunday our on-site parking lots look empty, because so many people “park and walk.”  If you visit our church on Easter Sunday, I can guarantee that you will find plenty of parking spots.

My question is, why can’t we get more people to do this on the other 51 weeks of the year?

I hope you are planning to attend a church near you this Easter, April 20th.  Don’t try to make excuses for not going because there may not be enough parking. If you don’t have a church home, please accept this invitation to celebrate with us on Easter Sunday.  I’m sure that there will be plenty of parking for you and your family!

Pastor Mark Hopper

Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

(909) 594-7604

Good Friday Service: 7 p.m., April 18

Easter Sunday Services: 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m.

Website: www.efreedb.org

CHINO: Suspected “Luger Bandit” Caught After Chino Bank Hold-Up

STAFF REPORTS

Luger Bandit in Action Photo courtesy of : FBI

Luger Bandit in Action
Photo courtesy of : FBI

Chino – The “Luger Bandit,” who had been sought for the robbery of multiple banks, appears to have been caught after a bank holdup in Chino on Wed., April 16. The suspect matched the FBI’s description of the individual associated with multiple robberies, including those in Corona, Eastvale, Granada Hills, and Fontana. Two of the banks that had been robbed were reportedly offering a combined $15,000 for information leading to the suspect’s arrest and conviction.

The most recent holdup occurred at 9:14 a.m. on Wednesday, at the Chase Bank located at 7033 Schaefer Ave in Chino. The suspect, identified as Ramsin Jonathan Malek, was taken into custody around 9:30 a.m. According to jail records, he was booked for investigation of armed robbery with bail set at $100,000.

According to a statement released from Chino spokeswoman, Michelle Van Der Linden, Malek was arrested after witnesses informed police that the gunman had fled in a grey BMW 328i. When police made a traffic stop after spotting a vehicle matching the description, Malek was arrested. In his vehicle was a Luger pistol.

Another robbery linked with the suspect just last week was the Chase Bank in San Dimas. The Los Angeles County San Dimas Sheriff’s Station reported that a man, armed with a handgun, entered the bank at 1198 Via Verde Drive on Wed., April 9. The suspect demanded money before fleeing on foot. Authorities linked the incident with several other banks allegedly robbed by the same suspect in the span of more than a year.

In a news release from the FBI, law enforcement began seeking the public’s assistance in the search for the bank robber early in 2013. The suspect was said to have a modus operandi of ordering employees and customers to the ground while brandishing a luger-type weapon.

Eastvale: ATM Machine Attempted Theft Suspects In Eastvale and Hemet Caught

Image
Courtesy City of Eastvale

Date Written: April 17, 2014 Time Written: 10:00 AM 
Date of Incident: April 3 and April 6, 2014 Time of Incident: 4:40 AM 
Location of Incident: 6000 Block of Hamner Avenue, Eastvale 
Reporting Officer: Sergeant Vanessa Sloniker 
File Number: EV140930004 and EV140960004 

On Thursday, April 3, and Sunday April 6, 2014, officers assigned to the Eastvale Police Department responded to the Chase Bank in reference to an attempted theft of the stand-alone ATM machine. Detectives assigned to the Eastvale Police Department assumed the investigation and later determined a separate ATM theft in the city of Hemet that occurred on April 11, 2014 at the 1800 block of East Florida Avenue was also committed by the same suspects. In a collaborative effort between the Eastvale Detectives and the Hemet Police Department the two suspects were located in the city of Riverside. Due to the more serious crime of grand theft, occurring in the Hemet Police Department’s jurisdiction they assumed the investigation and the following 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. 

Anyone with additional information on this case is encouraged to contact Eastvale Detective, Ted Gonzales by calling (951) 955-2600.

Citizens may also submit an anonymous tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.

(Photo by Bree Pressler Dennis)

CHINO: CVUSD Grad Dies In Bus Crash

Arthur Arzola Photo Courtesy: Google Images

Arthur Arzola
Photo Courtesy: Google Images

Staff Reports

Orland – Arthur Arzola, 26, of Rancho Cucamonga, has perished in a crash that left five adults and five students dead, and many more injured.

The tragic events unfolded on Thursday evening, April 10, when a bus of high school students – many from Southern California – traveling to Humboldt State University in Arcata was reportedly side-swiped by a Federal Express truck. The bus was on the Interstate 5 freeway passing through Orland (in the northern Sacramento Valley) when the accident occurred at about 5:30 p.m. Officials are still determining what caused the fiery incident that claimed so many.

Arzola, who was an admissions counselor and recruiter for Humboldt State University, was a graduate of Don Lugo High School, Class of 2006. He served as ASB President in 2005-06. Arzola also attended the University of La Verne, where he recently earned an educational counseling credential as a graduate student.

Arzola is said to have had a passion for helping students realize their academic dreams. He is survived by his wife, Krystle.