Category Archives: News By City

Walnut: New Date for Walnut Family Health and Fitness Fair

Walnut –- With last weekend’s heavy rainstorms, the Family Health and Fitness Fair originally scheduled for Saturday, March 1, has been officially rescheduled for Saturday, April 5, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Walnut Senior Center.

Health IconMost vendors have confirmed their attendance at the new event date, including sponsors Kaiser Permanente and Pomona Valley Medical Center. Attendees will still be able to take advantage of free health screenings, including blood pressure, and bone density; talk to vendors; collect plenty of freebees; and listen to lectures given by health professionals.

“We wanted to provide a successful event, and with the rain forecast last weekend, it would have been difficult for families and seniors to attend,” Council Member Bob Pacheco said.  “Also, we didn’t want the community driving in unsafe conditions during the wet weather.”

The day-long event will provide fun for the whole family as well as opportunities to get informed on how to maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Walnut Senior Center is located at 21215 La Puente Road, in Walnut. For additional information, please call the Walnut Senior Center at (909) 598-6200. For information about the City of Walnut, please visit the website at www.ci.walnut.ca.us.

Walnut: Tang Accused of State, Federal Campaign Law Violations

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

Betty Tang (Courtesy of Betty Tang- Walnut City Council)

Betty Tang (Courtesy of Betty Tang- Walnut City Council)

Walnut –- An organization of Walnut residents, “Citizens to Protect Walnut” announced yesterday that they filed legal complaints against Walnut City Council candidate, Betty Tang, with California’s Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC), California’s Attorney General and with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS).   The residents claim Tang has illegally received and reported political campaign contributions from at least two tax-exempt charitable organizations, and they cite the City of Walnut’s website for the proof.

Walnut resident, Phil Bennett, speaking on behalf of Citizens to Protect Walnut, said that since the Diamond Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Confucius Chinese Language School of Walnut are organized as nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations, they are completely prohibited from participating “in any campaign activity for or against political candidates.”  The Diamond Youth Symphony Orchestra is organized as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization, and the Confucius Chinese Language School is organized as a 170(b)(1)(a)(ii) tax-exempt charitable organization.

When asked for proof of these violations of the law, Bennett said the evidence was “right there in black and white, on the current websites of the City of Walnut, the Diamond Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Confucius Chinese Language School  of Walnut.”

“Campaign contributions are political activity.  And if you look at Betty Tang’s Campaign Statement filed with the City of Walnut on February 25, 2014, she reports that she received a $1,000 campaign contribution from the Diamond Youth Symphony Orchestra on February 18, 2014 and a $500 campaign contribution from the Confucius Chinese Language School on February 16, 2014,” he said. He also noted that if you go on the websites of these two organizations, they both show that they are classified by the IRS as tax-exempt charitable organizations.  “That’s all you need to know to establish that there has been a violation of the law,” Bennett said.

Bennett said what made Tang’s violation of campaign contribution laws particularly bad was the fact that she is a Member of the Board of Directors of the Diamond Youth Symphony Orchestra, as she states on her campaign literature.

“First, as a Board Member, she has actually participated in steering her organization’s charitable funds into this illegal political activity, and she has placed this entire organization at legal and financial risk.  I can’t believe she is that ignorant about what tax-exempt charitable organizations are allowed to do.  I wonder what contributors to this organization will think about this diversion of their money into political activity?”

Bennett said he was displeased that a City Council candidate is violating state and federal campaign laws and engaging in unfair political activity.

“I think Walnut citizens would expect their candidates to be aware of the campaign laws before they decide to run for elective office and then to respect these laws.  I don’t want anyone on our City Council who got there illegally and unethically.”

Bennett said he hoped the complaints he has filed on behalf of Citizens to Protect Walnut with the FPPC, California Attorney General and IRS will not only result in fines for these violations of the law, but also trigger a wider investigation into other possible violations of contribution laws by Tang’s campaign.

Tang’s office did not return a call regarding the allegations.

Los Angeles County: DUI Checkpoints This St. Patrick’s Day

LA COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

Crime ImageLos Angeles County -– With St. Patrick’s Day on March 17, Glendora Police Chief, Tim Staab, and the ‘Avoid the 100 DUI Task Force’ are reminding drivers not to get behind the wheel if they’ve been drinking. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that more than 269 people were senselessly killed nationwide in crashes involving drunk drivers during the St. Patrick’s Day holiday from 2007 to 2011. Those fatalities were preventable.

The Avoid the 100 Los Angeles County DUI Task Force will be deploying 87 roving DUI patrols this St. Patrick’s Day, as well as 13 DUI checkpoints throughout the county looking to stop and arrest drivers who are impaired by alcohol or drugs. These DUI patrols and checkpoints are in addition to regularly scheduled patrol officers and they will all be looking for the tell-tale signs of an impaired driver behind the wheel.

“When you celebrate St. Patrick’s Day, just be smart about it. If you know you’re going to drink, whether with friends at a pub or attending a party, designate a sober driver ahead of time or call a taxi to make sure you get home safely,” said Chief Staab. “There’s never an excuse for driving after drinking.”

According to NHTSA, on average, one person was killed every 53 minutes in a drunken driving crash in the U.S. in 2011.  Most of these crashes involved drunk drivers who had blood alcohol concentrations of .15 or higher, almost twice the legal limit of .08.  To prevent these tragedies from occurring, Chief Staab recommends the following steps to have a safe and happy St. Patrick’s Day:

– Before the festivities begin, plan a way to safely get home at the end of the night.

– Before drinking, designate a sober driver and leave your car keys at home.

– If you’re impaired, use a taxi, call a sober friend or family member, or use public transportation to get home safely.

– If available, use your community’s sober ride program.

– If you see a drunk driver on the road, report them!  Call 9-1-1. You could save a life.

– And remember, if you know people who are about to drive or ride while impaired, take their keys and help them make other arrangements to safely get where they are going.

The Task Force is funded through a grant by the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The Avoid DUI Task Force will next deploy operations on Cinco de Mayo.

Inland Empire: Straight Talk With Danice

Dear Danice Akiyoshi, ND:

My sorority sisters and I plan to take a cruise to Mexico this summer.  There are eight of us going, so we drew names to decide how the rooms would be shared.  I am nervous because I drew the girl who has OCD, and she has to have everything perfect all the time.  I’m a spontaneous person and never plan a thing.  Do you think it would be wrong of me to see if any of the other girls might be willing to switch roommates with me?   We are the worst match.

Gabriella

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Gabriella:

Your roommate is bound to discover your feelings if you approach the other people in your group.  Names were drawn; all is fair, so accept the outcome and get off to a good start.  Partnering with this person only applies to your stateroom right?  Where you sleep and shower should not have a significant bearing on how much fun you experience with your sorority sisters on this cruise.  I am old enough to know that things often happen for a reason.  You may find yourself forming a magnificent friendship with your roommate.  Maybe you even have something important to teach each other.  Carry on and concentrate on having a good time.

Danice Akiyoshi,ND

Tang Accused of State, Federal Campaign Law Violations

 

By Michael Armijo
 
Walnut – An organization of Walnut residents, “Citizens to Protect Walnut” announced yesterday that they filed legal complaints against Walnut City Council candidate Betty Tang with California’s Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC), California’s Attorney General and with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service (IRS).   The residents claim Tang has illegally received and reported political campaign contributions from at least two tax-exempt charitable organizations, and they cite the City of Walnut’s website for the proof.
Walnut resident Phil Bennett, speaking on behalf of Citizens to Protect Walnut, said that since the Diamond Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Confucius Chinese Language School of Walnut are organized as nonprofit, tax-exempt organizations, they are completely prohibited from participating “in any campaign activity for or against political candidates.”  The Diamond Youth Symphony Orchestra is organized as a 501(c)(3) tax tax-exempt charitable organization, and the Confucius Chinese Language School is organized as a 170(b)(1)(a)(ii) tax-exempt charitable organization.
When asked for proof of these violations of the law, Bennett said the evidence was “right there in black and white, on the current websites of the City of Walnut, the Diamond Youth Symphony Orchestra and the Confucius Chinese Language School  of Walnut.”
“Campaign contributions are political activity.  And if you look at Betty Tang’s Campaign Statement filed with the City of Walnut on February 25, 2014, she reports that she received a $1,000 campaign contribution from the Diamond Youth Symphony Orchestra on February 18, 2014 and a $500 campaign contribution from the Confucius Chinese Language School on February 16, 2014,” he said. He also noted that if you go on the websites of these two organizations, they both show that they are classified by the IRS as tax-exempt charitable organizations.  “That’s all you need to know to establish that there has a violation of the law,” Bennett said.
Bennett said what made Tang’s violation of campaign contribution laws particularly bad was the fact that she is a Member of the Board of Directors of the Diamond Youth Symphony Orchestra, as she states on her campaign literature. 
“First, as a Board Member she has actually participated in steering her organization’s charitable funds into this illegal political activity, and she has placed this entire organization at legal and financial risk.  I can’t believe she is that ignorant about what tax-exempt charitable organizations are allowed to do.  I wonder what contributors to this organization will think about this diversion of their money into political activity?”
Bennett said he was unpleased that a City Council candidate is violating state and federal campaign laws and engaging in unfair political activity. 
“I think Walnut citizens would expect their candidates to be aware of the campaign laws before they decide to run for elective office and then to respect these laws.  I don’t want anyone on our City Council who got there illegally and unethically.” 
Bennett said he hoped the complaints he has filed on behalf of Citizens to Protect Walnut with the FPPC, California Attorney General and IRS will not only result in fines for these violations of the law but also trigger a wider investigation into other possible violations of contribution laws by Tang’s campaign. Tang’s office did not return communications regarding the allegations.

Chino Hills: Happenings

STAFF REPORTS

icon-homesCHINO HILLS — The Chino Hills Community Foundation’s 4th Annual Spring Home Tour returns this year on Sunday, April 6, with an impressive lineup of custom-built homes that highlight the diverse community of Chino Hills.

Tours will take place from 1:00 to 4:00 p.m., with a wine reception to follow from 4:00 to 6:00 p.m. at the Chino Hills Community Center. Tickets are $45 per person, which includes the reception. Reception-only tickets are available for $30. Proceeds from the event will contribute to the Foundation’s efforts to raise funds for art programs and youth and senior recreation scholarships.

The tour will feature three grand custom properties, located in different parts of the City. The tours are self-guided, and numerous docents will be on-hand to share information about the homes.

“Guests are going to get a big kick out of our homes this year,” said Vice Mayor Cynthia Moran, chair of the Foundation. “From the best man cave you’ll ever see, to a villa, to a modern marvel, the homes really delight and deliver a fun experience.”

A wine reception with light appetizers will cap off the day where guests have the opportunity to buy raffle tickets and enjoy live music by Give Up The Junk, a Chino Hills youth band.

Event sponsors include: Keller Williams; Century 21 Beachside; Windermere Realtors; Advantage Realtors; Steve and Stephanie Eli; Loren Lillestrand; and Sylvia Nash. Additional sponsorship opportunities are available.

Founded in 2008, the Chino Hills Community Foundation is committed to enhancing the quality of life in the City through local philanthropy that benefits all citizens. Most recently, the foundation donated $300,000 to furnish the Community Center and gave more than $23,000 in scholarships to low-income children and teens participating in City recreation programs.

Home tour tickets are available through the City website at www.chinohills.org/HomeTour.  Tickets may also be purchased in the Recreation Division at City Hall, 14000 City Center Drive.  For additional event information and sponsorship opportunities, please visit www.chinohillsfoundation.org or e-mail the Foundation at CHCfoundation@chinohills.org

Orange County: School Stage Collapses

BY EMILY LUNDBERG

Orange — On Saturday, March 8, 28 students were injured when Servite High School’s stage collapsed during a performance by Rosary High School, an all-girl catholic school.

The collapse occurred at approximately 10 p.m. during the finale of Rosary’s 44th Annual Red and Gold Rally performance. According to the Rosary website, Red and Gold is “one of Rosary’s most cherished traditions.”  In preparation for the rally, the entire student body is divided into several categories including choral, dance, media, props, and stage techs. These groups then spend six weeks using creativity, analytical thinking, and leadership to put on the event.

Servite, an all-boy catholic high school, was founded in 1958 and served as the venue for this year’s Red and Gold performance. According to the Servite’s website, the stage is 50’ wide and 25’ deep.  A statement released by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Orange on March 10 stated that an internal investigation is currently underway to determine the cause of the collapse.

At the time of the collapse, 250 students were jumping and screaming on stage during the finale.  Without what appeared to be any signs or warning, the front part of the stage collapsed.  This was the last of four performances scheduled that weekend.

According to a spokesperson from the Catholic Diocese of Orange, 28 students were treated for mild to moderate injuries at local hospitals, and all have been released.

On March 9, Rosary and Servite High Schools released a brief joint statement saying that the event had occurred and that their “thoughts and prayers are with the students and their families.”  Both schools have since declined phone calls from reporters requesting comments on the event.

Diamond Bar: Citibank Offers Jewelry As New Promotion

STAFF REPORTS

Diamond Bar –- Did you know that 2014 is the year of the horse? As a promotion for the Lunar New Year, the Diamond Bar branch of Citibank is offering Swarovski horse and Swarovski jewelry for new deposits. Come to see their display and learn more about their current promotions.

 

Jewelry offered as Citibank promotion

Swapna Ray, Vice President of the Diamond Bar Citibank, stands with the Swarovski horse and Swarovski jewelry that is being offered as a new promotion. (Photo courtesy: Swapna Ray)

Citibank Diamond Bar Branch, located at 1188 S. Diamond Bar Blvd. Diamond Bar, CA. 91765. They can be reached at (909) 978-3101.

La Puente: Public’s Help Needed in Locating Missing Person

LA COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT

La Puente – Detectives from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Missing Persons Unit are seeking the public’s assistance in locating Raul Aspuru Servin, a 73-year old Hispanic male who was last seen driving from his residence on the 100 block of Winton Street, La Puente, on Monday, March 10, at 11 a.m.

Aspuru is described as 5’ 06”, 170lbs, has grey hair, a grey beard and brown eyes. He is missing his top front teeth, has droopy eyelids, and age spots on the right side of his face.  He was last seen wearing blue jeans and a blue long-sleeved shirt.

Aspuru was driving a black 2003 Volkswagen 4-door Jetta, California license plate 5CNV595. He is not in possession of his wallet, money, or identification, and suffers from Alzheimer’s disease and diabetes.

Aspuru’s family is very concerned and is also asking for the public’s assistance.

Anyone with information about this individual is encouraged to contact Detective Velasquez at the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau, Missing Persons Unit, (323) 890-5500. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website at http://lacrimestoppers.org.

Walnut: Council Corner

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut — The Walnut City Council meeting held its final regular meeting for February, which bid farewell to the outgoing Philippine Consulate General.

The City Council’s first action of the evening was to honor Maria Hel Barber de la Vega, the outgoing Philippine Consulate General of Los Angeles, and welcome Imelda Panalong, the Deputy Consul General of Los Angeles.

The Philippine Consulate General of Los Angeles strives to protect Filipino nationals as well as perform community outreach and perform passport and visa services.

Mayor Tony Cartagena congratulated Hel Barber de la Vega for her years of work, including sending disaster relief to the Philippines following Typhoon Yolanda last November.

Following the recognitions, Adrian Flores, Project Manager for Southern California Edison, gave a presentation regarding the Gridlock 12 KV Project that would help support the energy needs of Walnut and surrounding cities.

The project, according to Flores, would have a major affect on Grand Avenue since Southern California Edison would have conduit construction stretching from La Puente North to San Jose Hills, which would result in lane closures for several weeks.  Flores said that Edison is hoping to start construction in April and finish construction before summer due to the increased energy needs of the season.

During public comment, a large community outcry for increased police protection was asked by citizens. For more information, read the story on page 1.

City Council members then approved the minutes for the Feb. 12 City Council meeting; study session minutes; and items on the consent calendar for Resolution No. 14-09, allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $790,637.33; Resolution No. 14-11, supporting the state route 57/60 mixed flow interchange improvements; and Resolution No. 14-10, allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $284,114.00.

City Council also added and approved an action that would allowed the Walnut successor agency and housing agencies to recover a minimum of $150,000 each year, which was signed by Governor Jerry Brown on Feb. 18. Since the state deadline is March 3, the council added the item and voted for approval.

The council approved Amended Item 7 on the consent calendar, which was resolution for the City of Walnut acting as successor agency for the Walnut Improvement Agency, approving and adopting the recognized obligation payment schedule pursuant to ABX126 and Health and Safety Code 34177, for the period of July 1 through Dec. 31.

After the final item of City Council was approved, the Walnut Housing Authority approved its only consent calendar item, which was Resolution No. 14-02 for the Walnut Housing Authority, allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $25,501.01.

Mayor Cartagena then officially adjourned the City Council and Housing Authority Meeting at 9 p.m., with the next regular meeting scheduled for 7 p.m., Wednesday, March 12.

 

Eastvale: San Antonio Medical Plaza Making Big Progress

STAFF REPORTS

Eastvale Medical Plaza

Eastvale Medical Plaza: The medical office building begins to take shape as a heavy crane lifts the first walls into place. (Photo Courtesy: Barbara Isenhart )

Eastvale Medical Plaza

Eastvale Medical Plaza: L to R: Mark Bertone, Chairman of San Antonio Community Hospital’s Board of Trustees; Jason Cooke, Strategic Medical Properties; Pat Timmins, Project Superintendent, Lusardi Construction; Harris F. Koenig; and Bryce Stafford, Strategic Medical Properties. (Photo Courtesy: Barbara Isenhart )

Eastvale — San Antonio Community Hospital’s medical plaza project in Eastvale has been progressing nicely.  Several construction milestones have been reached, including the tilt-up of the walls that took place on Feb. 5.  With this type of construction, the walls are formed adjacent to the foundation and a large crane lifts them into place one at a time. Precision is required to ensure that the walls are erected in just the right order, much like a puzzle. Intensive planning was required before the first wall was lifted into place and secured.

Eastvale Mayor, Ike Bootsma, was on hand to witness this major milestone, as was Harris Koenig, President and Chief Executive Officer of SACH, and Mark Bertone, Chairman of the hospital’s Board of Trustees.

The Eastvale San Antonio Medical Plaza will be located in Lewis Retail Center’s Eastvale Gateway South Shopping Center, on Limonite Avenue, just west of Interstate 15.  The location allows the hospital to expand its healthcare services to meet the needs of residents in Eastvale, south Ontario, Norco, and surrounding communities.  The medical plaza is anticipated to open in late 2014.

This information is courtesy of Eastvale San Antonio Medical Plaza.

Diamond Bar: Library Teams with Covered California

NEWS RELEASE

Diamond Bar — Covered California has teamed with the Diamond Bar Library for a series of enrollment events to help local consumers obtain quality, affordable health insurance.

Health Icon “There’s no better place than libraries to help consumers protect themselves and their families by enrolling in Covered California health insurance plans,” Executive Director, Peter V. Lee, said.

Covered California’s Certified Insurance Agents and Certified Enrollment Counselors will be at the Diamond Bar Library to provide free assistance to enroll in quality, affordable health plans.  On top of the free assistance, many consumers may qualify for financial assistance to help them pay for insurance coverage through Covered California, or determine that they are eligible for no-cost or low-cost Medi-Cal.

Many consumers have been uninsured for years and are relieved and excited at the opportunity to finally get affordable health coverage.

Theus White, 28, of North Hollywood, is an independent contractor for an insurance agency and has been uninsured for about six months. “Not have having insurance has been a bit challenging.  I do have to do home remedies to make sure I’m not catching any colds or something like that.  In the event you are ill, you have to go to a hospital and get a huge bill!”

Guided by Covered California, more than 26,000 Enrollment Counselors, insurance agents and eligibility workers in counties across the state are available to help consumers enroll.

“We know for the thousands who have successfully enrolled, there are others out there who we still need to serve better,” Lee said. “These events are part of that effort.”

The library enrollment events are being held to enroll as many people as possible before March 31, which is the deadline for getting covered.

Eastvale: Happiness Is…

BY PASTOR DENNIS MORALES

Pastor Dennis Morales Calvary Chapel CrossBridge

Pastor Dennis Morales

You fill in the blank. Happiness is what so many are trying to determine in life.  Some may ponder “what is happiness?”

Believe it or not, but my two boys love when I do yard work or clean out the garage.  Why? You say.  They love it because they have an opportunity to help me and it gives them a chance to hold a broom.  Yes, hold a broom.  I have a photo of my son Noah holding a push broom the day of his first birthday with such intrigue and joy.  It actually brought him joy and fulfillment to help his dad.  This was another glimpse of the Lord teaching me through my son.

In the Upper Room, Jesus took a towel and wrapped it around His waist.  He then took a basin and began to do the work of a servant as he washed the disciple’s feet (John 13).  Jesus then said “if you know these things, blessed are you if you do them” (John 13:17).  The word “blessed” here is translated “happy.”  Jesus shares with us the source of real happiness in this scene.  Jesus essentially shows us that happiness cannot be defined by prestige or power, only in terms of knowing and doing God’s will for our lives.  To my son, pushing a broom may not be the most exhilarating experience in itself, but when it’s connected to blessing his dad, it makes him happy.

Life without God is empty, shallow, and lacks purpose. When you allow Christ in your life, He makes it worth living.  Serving the Lord and others in His name adds a dimension of happiness.  “Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD, and whose hope is the LORD” (Jer 17:7).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 11:30 am at Clara Barton Elementary 7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale. www.CalvaryEastvale.org.

Rowland Heights: RUSD Seeks New Superintendent

STAFF REPORTS

Rowland Heights — At this week’s regular Rowland Unified School District (RUSD) Board of Education meeting, the Board and Superintendent shared that Ruben Frutos, District Superintendent, has expressed a preference and recommended that the Board commence a search for a new Superintendent. The Board directed staff to gather information and proposals from qualified search firms. A report back to the Board is expected at the March 25 Study Session.

Frutos continues to serve as the District Superintendent. His current contract remains in effect through June 30, 2014.

It was also reported at the meeting that the Superintendent proposed a return to the Deputy Superintendent of Administrative Services position starting in July.  The Board of Education is expected to consider and take action on these matters at the next regular Board Meeting, scheduled on April 16.

RUSD serves the communities of Rowland Heights, Walnut, La Puente, City of Industry, and West Covina.  For more information, visit www.RowlandSchools.org.

Eastvale: Crime Recap

STAFF REPORTS

 Eastvale -– The following crime incidents have been reported by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the City of Eastvale, and eyewitnesses throughout the community. Here is a recap of the local crime for last month.

Crime ImageOn Tuesday, Feb. 25, a search warrant was obtained at the 6400 block of Gold Dust St., Eastvale, where Eastvale Police seized 921 marijuana plants, one pound of processed marijuana and packaging material. Yongchao Huang, 32, of San Gabriel, was arrested for cultivation of marijuana and grand theft of utilities. He is accused of bypassing the home’s electricity meter, stealing about $7,600 worth of energy per month and causing a serious fire hazard.  Anyone with additional information is asked to contact Officer Javier Morando at the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600.

On Feb. 19, at around 7:45 a.m., a 17-year-old female was struck by an oncoming vehicle while riding her bike eastbound on the north side of Citrus St.  Fortunately, the victim was able to walk away with only a scraped knee. The vehicle that struck the victim and fled the scene was reported to be a silver Volkswagen, according to eyewitnesses. When the suspect fled the scene, a witness followed the suspect’s vehicle and contacted the Eastvale Police Department. However, deputies were unable to identify the vehicle when they arrived. They are asking the community to contact the Eastvale Police at (951) 776-1099 if they see a silver Volkswagen with damage to the front or side.

On Tuesday, Feb. 13, Julie Kalberg, 34, of Eastvale, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter, felony abuse and child engagement in Riverside Superior Court. Kalberg was convicted after she babysat 1-year old, Caitlyn Jolley, in her Eastvale home on Elias Street back on April 30, 2010. She was reportedly a friend of the Jolley family and had previously babysat for them. The child was injured and taken to a Corona hospital where she was reportedly found to have major head trauma and signs of shaken-baby syndrome.  The results of the medical examination led to the arrest of Kalberg the following day.  Jolley was transferred to Loma Linda University Medical Center for more advanced care; however, she died four days later as a result of her injuries. On Feb. 13, after the jury deliberated for two days, Kalberg was found guilty of causing the fatal injuries.  Kalberg has been held at the Robert Presley Detention Center for the last four years.  At her hearing on Feb. 28, she was sentenced to time served and the court did not impose any additional jail time.

On Monday, Feb. 10, at 6:25 p.m., the Eastvale Fire Department responded to a home fire in the 12000 block of Craigburn Circle in Eastvale. The fire was extinguished and the Eastvale Fire Department discovered that the residence contained an indoor marijuana grow operation.  A search warrant was obtained and served by officers assigned to Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team.  Officers were able to seize 1,103 marijuana plants and 35 lbs of processed marijuana. Electricity was also being bypassed around the meter, which may have been the cause of the fire.  Anyone with information about this incident is requested to contact Officer Javier Morando at the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600.

Over the last several months, there have been several incidents of graffiti at Orchard Park located at 5900 Festival Way in Eastvale, and the surrounding neighborhood near the park, according to the City of Eastvale.  Sheriff’s reports state that spray paint and markers were used to deface property at Orchard Park, including the toys at the playground.  Deputy Avila, who is assigned to patrol the parks in the City of Eastvale, began an investigation regarding the graffiti. On Feb. 6, at 4:55 p.m., after several leads, Deputy Avila received information that a juvenile was seen at the Eastvale Community Center with graffiti on his backpack. The juvenile, who is a 14-year old resident of Eastvale, was contacted while riding his bike. The graffiti on the juvenile’s backpack matched the graffiti at Orchard Park; therefore, the juvenile was detained.  Several pieces of evidence connecting him to the graffiti were located at his residence. A second juvenile was identified during the investigation, a 17-year old resident of Eastvale.  After searching the juvenile’s residence, additional evidence was located linking the juvenile to the graffiti at Orchard Park and surrounding areas. Both juveniles were arrested for felony vandalism and released into the custody of their parents. The total amount of damage caused by the suspects was $9,192.24. The Jurupa Community Services District will be seeking reimbursement to repair the damage from the juvenile’s parents.  This investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about this incident is requested to contact Deputy Avila at the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600.

On Wednesday, Feb. 5, at 4:58 p.m., Eastvale officers responded to the 6000 block of Wells Springs Street, in Eastvale, where a burglary had occurred and numerous items were taken from inside.  Sheriff’s Deputies obtained information stating a gray Pontiac Grand-Am was used during the commission of the crime. Officers spotted the vehicle driving in the area and a traffic enforcement stop was conducted.  The driver of the vehicle was identified as Victor Saizholguin, a 19-year old Hispanic male from Eastvale. Property belonging to the residence on Wells Springs Street was located inside the Pontiac, as well as additional items of stolen property from at least one other residential burglary.  Saizholguin was arrested for residential burglary, possession of stolen property, and possession of burglary tools.  He was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center and is being held on $35,000 bail.  Additional suspects are sought and anyone with information on this case is encouraged to call Deputy Michelle Shamhart at the Eastvale Police Department at (951) 955-2600.

Between November 2013 and January 2014, there have been several incidents involving the theft of amplifiers from cable company boxes within Eastvale and the surrounding areas. These cable boxes are located in most neighborhoods, and the thefts are typically occurring between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m.  It is believed the suspects responsible for these thefts may have a professional appearance and may be driving utility trucks.  If you observe individuals working on, or removing parts from these cable boxes, or have information which may assist with the investigation, you are asked to contact your local Law Enforcement agency immediately.  Crime reporting tips should include a description or photo of the suspect vehicle and license plate, description or photo of the suspect(s), direction of travel of the suspect(s) after theft, and determining if the suspect(s) is known to the area.

Anyone with information is asked to contact one of the following numbers:  For an in-progress crime, call 911; for a crime in Eastvale, call (951) 955-9240; Jurupa Valley, call (951) 955-2661; and for a crime in Norco, call (951) 270-5673.

Walnut: WVUSD Schools Shine at 2014 Science Olympiad

BY KELLI GILE

Walnut — Five schools and over 100 students from the Walnut Valley Unified School District distinguished themselves during the 28th Los Angeles County Science Olympiad Competition held Feb. 22 at Occidental College.

 

2014 Science Olympiad

Quail Summit Elementary School 2014 Science Olympiad Team (Photo Courtesy Kelli Gile)

2014 Science Olympiad

South Pointe Middle School 2014 Science Olympiad Team (Photo Courtesy Kelli Gile)

2014 Science Olympiad

Chaparral Middle School 2014 Science Olympiad Team (Photo Courtesy Kelli Gile)

2014 Science Olympiad

The Walnut High 2014 Science Olympiad Team (Photo Courtesy Kelli Gile)

2014 Science Olympiad

Suzanne Middle School 2014 Science Olympiad team (Photo Courtesy Kelli Gile)

The competition was fierce with over 135 elementary and secondary schools ready to show their scientific prowess.  A total of 140 schools were represented in the competition, which is the largest region in the nation. Several thousand students, teachers, and parents attended the all-day event.

For the first time, two Walnut Valley elementary schools sent teams to the competition. Teams from Quail Summit and Westhoff competed and took home silver medals. Most of these young scientists competed in 4 to 6 thirty minutes events. There is no state contest for the Elementary Division A tournament.

In Division B, Walnut Valley middle schools took three of the top six-team trophies.  Of the 39 middle school teams, South Pointe earned 3rd place, Suzanne earned 4th Place, and Chaparral earned 6th Place.  Because of their outstanding performances, all five WVUSD middle school and high school teams have been invited to the State Championships on April 5.

These students worked in teams of two to prepare for 23 events in the categories of Biology, Chemistry, Earth Science Physics, Technology, Engineering, and Inquiry.  Most students competed in three or four team events.  Some teams were focused on topics of anatomy, heredity, entomology, rocks/minerals, forensics, water quality, experimental design, solar system, and meteorology.  Other teams pursued engineering and created helicopters, a wheeled vehicle, rotor egg drop machine, a cantilever, and musical instruments.

“The Science Olympiad experience is a culmination of dedication, commitment, sacrifice and passion on the parts of the students, parents and coaches.  The Science Olympiad requires not only head work, but heart work,” said Susan Warren, Suzanne Middle School coach and science teacher.

“Just as in the recent Winter Olympics, every minute spent in actual competition represents hours spent in preparation and hard work.  I am so proud of this group of talented young scientists, who were willing to take risks and pursue advanced studies.  I am thankful for everyone who helped make this experience possible for them,” she said.

Both Walnut High School and Diamond Bar high school earned trophies in the coveted top team placements for Division C.  Of the 39 high school teams, Walnut High earned 2nd Place and Diamond Bar High earned 4th Place.

Walnut High School received two 1st Place medals, three 2nd Place medals, five 3rd Place medals, two 4th Place medals, one 5th Place medal, and one 6th Place medal. There were 23 events and the Mustang team placed in the top six in 14 of these events.

“We may have had the largest representation there, medaling and receiving the top six place finishes, of any district,” said Tony Goossens, who coaches the Mustang team.  Goossens describes the events as extremely difficult and beyond what is taught in the classroom.

“Each student has spent countless hours studying for exams in such topics as anatomy and physiology, astronomy, chemistry, diseases, entomology, forensics, genetics, geology, material science, planetary science, problem solving, circuitry, water quality, as well as building gliders, magnetic levitation, boomilever (structure stress designs), scrambler cars, and compound machines,” he said.

Special thanks to parents Anne and David Sonner who have spent countless hours to make the Walnut High School Team such a success.

Science Olympiad tournaments are rigorous, academic, interscholastic competitions that consist of a series of individual and team events in which students prepare for during the year. There are approximately 23 challenging and motivational events that are drawn from the various disciplines of biology, earth science, chemistry, physics, computers and technology.  There is a balance between events requiring knowledge of science facts, concepts processes, skills and science applications.

Anaheim Hills: Pharmaceutical Company Receives Bad Report

BY EMILY LUNDBERG

Anaheim Hills — Anaheim Hills-based pharmaceutical company, Questcor Pharmaceuticals, Inc., appears to be making a recovery after a damaging report from the stock commentary website, Citron Research, was published last week.

Health IconThe 24 page report, released on Feb. 27, alleged that Questcor’s flagship drug, Acthar, contains little to none of the main active ingredient, Corticotropin. Citron Research accused the company of mislabeling their product and raising a health risk from the lack of potency and other unknown factors associated with the drug, which is prescribed to patients with difficult to treat autoimmune and inflammatory disorders. Prior to the release of this report, Citron turned over their research findings to the FDA, urging them to investigate.

Shortly after the release of the report, Questcor’s chief operating officer, Steve Cartt, responded by telling Bloomberg’s First Word that Acthar is still not fully understood and that the drug still meets all FDA mandated specifications. The FDA is currently reviewing lab results to see if that is the case.

In a follow up to Cartt’s response, Citron published a statement saying they are “astonished” by what Cartt said and questioned both the legality and ethicality of Questcor’s lack of concrete knowledge about the drug they are currently selling for $28,000 a vial. To conclude the statement, they warned “cautious investing to all.”

Since the release of the report, Questcor’s stock (NASDAQ: QCOR) dropped 18.4% between Feb. 26 and Feb. 28, according to Yahoo Finance. In spite of this, some companies, including Mizuho Financials, have made statements in support of Questcor. The stock has since regained some of its momentum and has risen 6.83% since its fall on Feb. 28, although future trends remain uncertain while the company undergoes investigation from the FDA.

San Bernardino: New Mayor Sworn In

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

San Bernardino’s new mayor, Carey Davis, was sworn into office on March 3.  The inauguration ceremony was held inside the City’s council chambers, with a large crowd to bear witness.

San Bernardino Mayor Carey Davis

San Bernardino Mayor Carey Davis (Courtesy City of San Bernardino)

Davis, 61, was born and raised in San Bernardino.  He has been married for 40 years, and is a local church leader.  He is a Certified Public Accountant and has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration.  Davis is a longtime corporate controller at Hehr International, but is s

till fairly new to the political world.  His review of San Bernardino’s financial statements before San Bernardino was forced to file for bankruptcy is what sparked his personal interest in the City’s politics.

Carey Davis’s goal as mayor is to restore San Bernardino to a “prosperous and industrious community.”  His plan to achieve said goal consists of three main steps.  The first step will be to fix the City’s budget and finances.  Next, he plans to work with the local businesses and the Board of Education to discuss the best way to educate and train a skilled workforce.  Finally, he plans to keep the citizens up to date, informed, and involved in the City’s projects, as well as the progress being made.  Davis’ vision for San Bernardino includes a place where the council and the people work together for the betterment of the community, and join forces to help the City regain the financial stability it once knew.

Business Feature – Corona Regional Medical Center

2014-02-corona-regional-800The Corona Regional Medical Center is set apart from other hospitals. Committed to quality and the community, this hospital is comprised of a 160-bed acute care hospital and a 78-bed rehabilitation campus. Not only does this facility have more than 1,000 trained healthcare workers at hand but also approximately 300 physicians representing over 40 specialties. The Corona Regional Medical Center is also one of only 37 hospitals in the nation to receive both the HealthGrades Maternity Care Excellence Award and the Health Grades Gynecologic Surgery Excellence Award two years in a row. With costumer service being a top priority, Corona Regional makes sure that while seeking to be the leading community healthcare provider available customers are treated with the utmost courtesy, recognition and respect they need and deserve while visiting. Located at 800 S. Main St. Corona, CA 92882, Corona Regional Medical Center is open 24/7 and can be reached at (951)737-4343. Additional information can be found at http://www.coronaregional.com.

Eastvale: Police Conduct Daytime Curfew Checks

BY STAFF REPORTS

eastvale police curfew

(Image courtesy : City of Eastvale)

In an effort to decrease juvenile truancy rates, the Eastvale Police Dept. in collaboration with the Corona Norco School District conducted a city wide daytime curfew enforcement operation. The “sweep” took place on Friday, March 07, 2014,between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 2:00 P.M. According to a press release, the deputies patrolled the city of Eastvale in search of students who failed to report to school or left the campus without having permission to do so. While patrolling the city, deputies also checked several areas where juveniles are known for congregating, including parks, shopping centers, washes, and convenience stores. During the enforcement, several individuals were contacted, two of whom were found to be truant and were issued a citation for violating Riverside County Ordinance 9.12.030(a).

The few juveniles found to be in violation of the daytime curfew ordinance is a good indication of the positive effects the Corona-Norco Unified School District in Eastvale is having on their students by stressing the importance of regular school attendance.

The goal of this daytime curfew enforcement was to take a proactive approach to daytime curfew violators. Deputies also counseled juveniles and explained the importance of attending school on a regular basis and how failing to do so could significantly impact their future. This enforcement operation met expectations and future operations of this type are planned.