Category Archives: News By City

Motorcyclist Killed, Corona Man Arrested

By Anthony Saude

Corona – A Corona man was arrested for allegedly driving under the influence when he collided with a motorcyclist early Sunday morning. The collision on the westbound 60 Freeway in Jurupa Valley left the motorcyclist, a Menifee resident, dead, the California Highway Patrol said Monday, April 2.

Tonga Tavake, 59, died at the scene of the accident on the freeway just west of Valley Way, the Riverside County Coroner said Monday. Tavake was struck by several passing motorists as he lay motionless on the pavement, the CHP incident log reported.

The initial call that went out for the 4:07 a.m. crash was that a 2006 Volkswagen had collided with a center divider. Only a few minutes later, a report of a motorcyclist down in the No. 1 (fast) lane of the freeway in the same area came across the radio, according to CHP reports. Later it was learned that the collision involved both the motorcycle, and the Volkswagen from the earlier report. The motorcycle rider had been ejected from the motorcycle, the Monday report said.

The driver of the Volkswagen, identified as a 24-year-old Wilson Mayora Jr. of Corona, was arrested on suspicion of felony driving under the influence and vehicular manslaughter. He remained in custody Monday night at the Robert Presley Detention Center in Riverside.

The accident remains under investigation; anyone with information about it is encouraged to contact the Riverside California Highway Patrol Accident Investigation Unit at (951) 637-8000.

FREE Sustainable Gardening Workshop

By Anthony Saude

Diamond Bar – The City of Diamond Bar is hosting a FREE Sustainable Gardening Workshop on Saturday, April 21 from 9:30 a.m. to 11:0a.m. The free Basic Composting Workshop will provide instructions on composting, worm composting, and water-wise gardening including a selection of drought tolerant plant.

California is either just starting a drought, in the middle of a drought or the last drought just ended but one way or another we are always in a drought. This can become a real problem and has even led to laws being changed and penalties being handed out. If we want to be a responsible California resident then we should always be learning new ways to conserve water and use our natural resources.

The City wants to invite residents to participate and learn about the plant combinations that require less water and add more color to your garden. Compost bins will be available for purchase at a discounted price of $45 for this event. Worm compost bins will also be available for the discounted price of $65. The FREE composting workshop will take place at the AQMD – West parking lot located at 21865 Copley Drive.

The workshop is OPEN to ALL Los Angeles County residents; however space is limited so pre registration is suggested. To register send an email to greendb@diamondbarca.gov, be sure to include your name and phone number or call the City’s Environmental Services Division at 909-839-7015.

Former Surgeon General to Speak at Mt. SAC Health Conference

Staff Reports

 

WALNUT–– Dr. Richard Carmona, the 17th Surgeon General of the United States, will be the keynote speaker at Mt. San Antonio College’s 12th Annual Health Professions Conference on Friday, May 4, from 8 a.m. to 6:30 p.m., at various locations on campus. Sponsored by the Mt. SAC Caduceus Club, the Health Professions Conference is open to the public and geared toward students interested in careers in the health and medical fields.

Appointed by President George W. Bush in 2002, Carmona served as Surgeon General until his term expired in 2006. As Surgeon General, he released a landmark report on the health effects of secondhand smoke. Throughout his life, he has served in various positions in the medical field, including as a paramedic, registered nurse, and physician. He has served as chairman of the Arizona Southern Regional Emergency Medical System, CEO for the Pima County health care system, and was a professor of medicine at the University of Arizona. He worked as a deputy sheriff for the Pima County Sheriff’s Department and served as medical director of the county’s police and fire departments. In 2012, he ran for a U.S. Senate seat in Arizona.

More than 800 participants are expected at the 12th Annual Health Professions, which will feature will feature workshops, interactive demonstrations, focus groups, an education fair, and displays. Representatives from major medical research centers such as UC Irvine, UCLA, and USC will be on hand, and a wide range of health professions will be covered, including surgery, dentistry, pharmacy, neurology, pediatric medicine, occupational therapy, and veterinary medicine.

The Mt. SAC Caduceus Club is a student club that promotes careers in the health and medical fields.

Tickets for the conference are $37 until April 16 and advanced registration is encouraged.

 

For more information and to register, visit http://www.mtsacpremed.org.

 

Leftover Easter Eggs

By Mark Hopper

I have shared in previous articles how much my wife loves decorating our home during the various seasons of the year.  We have boxes and plastic storage tubs full of decorations for spring and fall, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas.  I think we also have some patriotic decorations for the 4th of July.

Easter season has been a lot of fun this year.  One of the things that our young grandchildren like to do is hunt for Easter Eggs around our house.  I enjoy hiding the plastic eggs and love to watch them enjoy finding them.

We have also learned that hiding the eggs is just as much fun as finding the eggs. The four year old likes to hide the plastic eggs inside drawers and kitchen cabinets. The younger 15 month old likes to hide them in more conspicuous places like on a living room chair or on top of the coffee table.

The four year old likes to give hints about the location of the hidden eggs. She uses words like “you are getting warmer” and “you are getting colder” to help guide her younger sister and me to the hidden locations.

On the other hand, the younger one likes to actually show her older sister when she has hidden the eggs. She will walk right to the spot and pick up the egg and give it to her older sister.

It is a fun game to play inside or outside the house. It fills a lot of time and allows both girls to be creative in where they hide the plastic Easter Eggs.

However, one of the challenges of hiding and finding Easter Eggs is accounting for all of them.  After we play this game several times, we realize that some of the eggs are still missing.  I sometimes forget where I have hidden them and sometimes our granddaughters do too. Where did they go? Why haven’t we found all of them yet?

The other day, as we were going to bed, my wife and I discovered a plastic egg under our pillow. Another time, we found one behind the living room curtains. Leftover Easter Eggs keep popping up around our house days after the children had left.

Leftover Easter Eggs bring a smile to our faces and warms our hearts. When we come across a hidden egg, we are reminded of the special times we share with these two precious little girls.

I recommend that all grandparents keep a supply of plastic Easter Eggs year round. They provide a fun activity with little guests and create some memories that will last for a long time. You will be glad you did and they will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

 

Fight Women’s Cancers 5K Run

Staff Reports

Eastvale – Put on your favorite shade of PINK and join us for a fun and fast 5K or 10K where Mary Kay Pink Cadillac’s mark the course!  When you support this race you are supporting a great cause. All proceeds benefit www.marykayfoundation.org. TMKF is dedicated to ending women’s cancers and fighting domestic abuse.

The race will start at 8 a.m. on Sunday April 22 but you will need to be there earlier to make sure you have everything you need to participate. See the schedule below to make sure you are ready to go. The run will be held at:

Eastvale Community Park
12750 Citrus Street
Eastvale, CA 92880

Registration can be done online at http://www.mk5k.com or you can register at the event on the same day. Same day Registration will be going on form 6:30 am to 7:45 am at the registration table.

There will be Snacks, refreshments and each person in each age group that crosses the finish line will be rewarded with a medal for their participation and effort!

There will be a 5K or a 10K run available to run in on this day and the cost of registration is $45. There will also be a team option available and the top 3 largest teams will be recognized.

The 1 Mile Kids’ Run is for kids 10 years and under and this event will be a 100 Mile Club recognized event .

The cost the kids to register for the event is $20

If you are going to run make sure you look over the schedule for RACE DAY and plan accordingly:

SUNDAY, April 22

6:30am- 7:45am- Bib pick up

6:30am- 7:45am- Same Day registration

7:00am- Pre-Race Activities

8am-10K

8:15am- 5K

9:15- 9:30am estimated start- Kids’ Run

9:30- 9:45am estimated- Awards

Learn more about The Mary Kay Foundation at www.marykayfoundation.org

 

Eastvale Area Crime Recap: March 2018

INCIDENT: OFFICER INVOLVED SHOOTING

WHEN: 3/8/18

WHERE: 9900 Block of Willowbrook Rd., Jurupa Valley

 

On March 8, 2018, at about 5:35 PM, officers from the Riverside Police Department were conducting an investigation for a wanted suspect within the 9900 block of Willowbrook Road, Jurupa Valley.  As the officers encountered the suspect an officer involved shooting occurred.  Life-saving measures were performed, but the suspect succumbed to his injuries.  No citizens or officers were injured as a result of this incident.  Deputies from the Jurupa Valley Station responded and assisted Riverside Police Department personnel.  Based on this being an ongoing investigation, the identity of the suspect is being withheld at this time.  Riverside County Sheriff Department’s Central Homicide Unit investigators responded and assumed the investigation.  The Riverside Police Department also sent out an investigative team to investigate the incident.  Per the Riverside Police Department’s policy, the involved officers were placed on administrative leave.  This is an ongoing investigation and the Riverside County Sheriff Department’s Central Homicide Unit encourages anyone with information regarding this incident to contact Investigator Johnson at 760-393-3502, or Investigator Liu of the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

 

INCIDENT: POSSESSION OF STOLEN VEHICLE, INVESTIGATION AND ARREST

WHEN: 3/9/18

WHERE: 1200 Block of Hamner Ave., Norco

 

On Friday, March 9, 2018, about 7:27 p.m., a deputy assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office conducted an enforcement stop on a vehicle, in the 1200 block of Hamner Avenue, in the City of Norco. A records check of the vehicle revealed it had been reported stolen. The vehicle driver and passenger were subsequently detained, pending the investigation. The driver of the stolen vehicle was identified as Amanda Cortez, age 28, a Jurupa Valley resident, and the vehicle passenger was identified Marco Raul Arevalo, age 28, a Montclair resident. Cortez and Arevalo were arrested for possession of stolen property in addition to several outstanding felony warrants. Both suspects were booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center, in the City of Riverside for the listed charges and warrants.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact Deputy Robertson of the Norco Sheriff’s Office at (951) 270-5673.

 

INCIDENT: PACKAGE THEFT- SEEKING PUBLIC ASSISTANCE

WHEN: 3/9/18

WHERE: 400 Block of Branding Iron Ln., Norco

The Norco Sheriff’s Office is seeking the public’s assistance with identifying a package theft suspect.

On Saturday, March 10, 2018, about 3:00 p.m., a deputy from the Norco Sheriff’s Office was dispatched to a residence, located in the 400 block of Branding Iron Lane, in the City of Norco. This was in reference to a reported package theft.

The subsequent investigation revealed that on Friday, March 9, about 6:30 p.m., a female suspect had walked up to the front of the residence, stole several delivered packages, and fled the location. The theft was recorded on a home camera surveillance system. The female suspect was described as being white, approximately 30 years of age, with light brown or red hair. She was last seen wearing a blue floral blouse, blue jeans, and red tennis shoes. Anyone who has information about the identity of the suspect or has any information pertaining to this case, is encouraged to contact Deputy Hughes of the Norco Sheriff’s Office, at (951) 270-5673.

 

INCIDENT: ASSAULT

WHEN: 3/21/18 (UPDATED: 3/22/18)

WHERE: 13000 Block of Dearborn St., Eastvale

UPDATE: On Wednesday, March 21, 2018, around 3:00 p.m., the suspect vehicle and suspect were identified and located. The suspect, Juan Francisco Romero Coto, was booked in at the Robert Presley Detention Center for an unrelated warrant. The case will be submitted to the Riverside County District Attorney’s Office for review. ORIGINAL INCIDENT: On Wednesday, March 21, 2018, around 7:10 a.m. officers assigned to the Eastvale Police Department responded to an assault that occurred on the Riverwalk Trail near Dearborn Street. During the assault, the suspect knocked the victim to the ground, the victim kicked the suspect off and the suspect fled on foot. A person of interest was last seen wearing a red sweatshirt with white lettering on the back. The person of interest was seen entering a white Chevy 2-door pick-up truck equipped with white work racks and an orange water cooler tied to the bed. The pick-up was towing a white, single axle trailer. Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Investigator Contreras of the Eastvale Police Department at (951) 955-2600.

INCIDENT: QUALITY OF LIFE ENFORCEMENT OPERATION

WHEN: 3/22/18

WHERE: Mission Blvd. Business District, Jurupa Valley

DETAILS: On March 22, 2018, deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Special Enforcement Team conducted a directed enforcement and undercover operation in the Mission Boulevard Business District of Jurupa Valley after receiving numerous complaints from business owners and citizens regarding suspicious activity in the area. During this operation, Hakeen Joadikay Richardson, a 27-year-old resident of Perris, was observed loitering for the purpose of prostitution and subsequently arrested on scene. The Jurupa Valley Special Enforcement Team will continue to monitor and deter criminal activity in the Mission Boulevard Business District and is asking anyone with concerns related to suspicious or criminal activity in the area to contact the Jurupa Valley Special Enforcement Team at 951-955-2600.

INCIDENT: VEHICLE THEFT INVESTIGATION AND ARREST

WHEN: 3/29/18

WHERE: 1300 Block of Sixth St., Norco

DETAILS: On Wednesday, March 28, 2018, about 9:44 a.m., a deputy assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office, was patrolling near a business, located in the 1300 block of Sixth Street, in the city of Norco.  While at this location, a citizen advised the deputy their vehicle had just been stolen from the business parking lot. Deputies obtained the victim’s vehicle description and the last known direction of travel. Within minutes, responding deputies located the suspect driving the stolen vehicle on a nearby street. Deputies attempted to conduct an enforcement stop on the stolen vehicle; however, the suspect drove away, and a pursuit ensued. The suspect attempted to evade pursuing deputies by driving onto the northbound I-15 Freeway from Sixth Street. As the suspect drove on the freeway, he collided into a ravine near the right shoulder. The suspect exited the vehicle and attempted to flee from deputies on foot but was quickly apprehended without incident. The driver was identified as Menny Gaytan, age 28, a resident of Pomona. Gaytan was arrested for vehicle theft and evading a peace officer. Following the arrest, Gaytan was transported to a nearby hospital for a precautionary medical evaluation as a result of the vehicle collision. Gaytan was released from the hospital and later booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center in the City of Riverside for the listed charges. The Norco Sheriff’s Office is committed to the safety of the citizens of Norco and will be vigilant in investigation all crimes of this nature. We are asking anyone with additional information on this case to contact Deputy Postoian during business hours at (951) 270-5673.

 

 

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WVUSD Celebrates Stellar Students And Volunteers

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—Each month, Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees celebrates hard-working students and dedicated community members.

During the March 14 meeting, Evergreen and Maple Hill Elementary leaders took to the podium to introduce their hand-picked honorees.

Evergreen fifth grader Luis Bartolo received the Super Star Student Award.

“Luis is always so positive and friendly to everyone he meets,” said Principal Trina Dryer recalling when a first grader visited his special education class for social lessons.

“Luis was chosen to walk the student back to his class and they could be seen holding hands, talking away as they walked and skipped down the hall. It truly showed Luis’s leadership and his caring for others!” she said.

Luis is also brave and willing to try new things even though he might afraid or anxious, Dryer said.

He recently went on a field trip to an equestrian center and was able to ride a horse successfully.

And at the recent Talent Show, Luis performed a song all by himself in front of an audience of over 650 students.  This is something that most people would not do!

“Luis, your Evergreen family is so proud of all your growth and accomplishments. We are going to miss you next year when you go to middle school!”

Mike Yamashiro and Ken Tragarz were honored with Partner in Education Awards.

During the annual Open House, the Walnut High School Astronomy Club, under the direction of teacher Mike Yamashiro, hosts a Star Party and Ken Tragarz with the Boy Scout Troop 737 cook up peach cobbler and other desserts in Dutch ovens.

“The Star Party has been a fun addition to our Open House event for the past six years,” Dryer said.

Families get to look through huge telescopes at the night sky.  There are usually lines of people waiting for their special turn to peer at the stars and planets.

The` Boy Scouts offer their delicious desserts and hot chocolate free of charge.

“They are quickly taken and eaten. I never get any!” Dryer said.

“We are very grateful to Mike, the Astronomy Club, Ken with the Boy Scout Troop for volunteering their time and hard work to make it an even more special evening!”

Maple Hill Elementary fifth grader Ethan McNeil was lauded with the Super Star Student Award.

“Ethan is a legacy who has paved his own way with his kind heart, strong mind, and great spirit,” shared Principal Kelly Morris.

He is compassionate, selfless, a talented athlete, and champion for kids that are underdogs.

“In class, he is like a Jedi – focused, disciplined, enthusiastic, and motivated,” Morris said.

“And all of his teachers will 100% agree that he has a heart of gold!”

When his grandfather was diagnosed with cancer, Ethan was compelled to advocate and support others affected with cancer.

With his sister’s help, Ethan created a school fundraising campaign that raised $1,500 for the WVUSD Relay for Life.

“Gentle souls like Ethan will be the calm force that the world needs to be a better place. And how lucky are we to be the village that’s helping to raise this stellar human being!” Morris said.

Parent volunteer and “everyday superhero” Steve Samaniego was honored with the Partner in Education Award.

The dedicated volunteer has run three reading groups every Monday morning for the past four years.

“He has positively impacted the lives of approximately 100 reluctant readers. But more importantly, he has had an impact on their hearts,” Principal Morris said.

During a 2nd grade musical, Steve was in the audience watching his daughter Vera perform, and during the opening number it was obvious that one student from his morning reading group was anxiously scanning the audience in search of his parents. At first, despair washed over his face, but within one small moment his sorrow turned into elation.

“I assumed that he spotted his parents, but when I peered over the many cameras, I saw that boy was looking directly at Mr. Samaniego who was giving him a thumbs-up, smiling ear to ear, and mouthing words of praise and encouragement,” Morris described.

“Mr. Samaniego isn’t just a parent who volunteers his time, he is a parent that volunteers his heart!”

 

Chino Hills Man Arrested for Wielding Knife

By Anthony Saude

Chino Hills – Deputies were dispatched at 2:08 p.m. to a residence on the 12800 block of Sunburst Trail. They had received a report of a knife- wielding man fighting with his family members.

Chino Hills deputies arrested and jailed a 50-year-old man Saturday afternoon on suspicion of arming himself with two knives and threatening members of his family. It was reported that the family would not allow him to drive the family car.

It was reported that the male suspect was extremely angry with his family about being denied permission to drive the family vehicle. Although family members were able to disarm the suspect of two knives during the struggle and pin him down on the floor. The suspect was able to injure one of the family members hand with one of the knives before other family members were able to disarm the suspect.

The suspect, Ruther Chito Martinez, was booked on a $50,000 bond and taken into custody at West Valley Detention Center in Rancho Cucamonga. He was released from the jail at 12:07 p.m. on Sunday, according to jail records. He is facing a felony count of assault with a deadly weapon.

Chino Valley Fire District paramedics treated the injured person for the laceration, but they refused to be taken to the hospital. They told the police that they would go to the hospital on their own later.

25th Annual Wine Soirée

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – The social event of the year, the Wine Soirée, is fast approaching on Sunday, April 22 to Diamond Bar.  Co-chairs Dana Cox, Nancy Lyons, Rick Rogers and Tony Torng announce the spectacular 25th Anniversary Celebration of the Wine Soirée with an afternoon of delicious food tasting from local restaurants, great wine tasting, other beverages, raffle, music, exciting book, silent and live auctions all to benefit the Diamond Bar Library and literacy in our community.  For the first time Anheuser Busch in Pomona will be pouring their delicious craft beer, Golden Road.

The annual Wine Soirée is an institution in Diamond Bar and is a great way to meet new and old friends and neighbors. Tickets are $65 per person so get your tickets soon as the number is limited.  You can purchase tickets online at http://www.dblibraryfriends.org/store/wine-soiree-ticket.html  or at the following Diamond Bar locations:  Midas Auto Service Experts, 796 N. Diamond Bar Boulevard; Xavier’s Florist, 1135 S. Grand Avenue; Diamond Bar Library, 21800 Copley Drive; Basically BOOKS, 23447 Golden Springs Drive.  A unique souvenir wine glass and program are included with each ticket.

Each year the Soirée is full of entertaining surprises:  There are many spectacular restaurants offering samples of their delicious foods including Albertsons Market, Aljibani Halal Market, Chili’s Grill and Bar, Claro’s Italian Market, Dilliwalla Indian Kitchen, Graber Olive House, It’s A Grind, Jeseca Creations, Julie’s Café, King Bap Korean, Mandarin Taste Restaurant, Mr. G’s Pizza, NiNi Bakery, Old Chendou , Round Table Pizza, Sprout’s Farmers Market, The Side Bar at Oh’Crab, Total Wine and More, and The Whole Enchilada.  Visit them is person and thank them for their support for literacy in our community.

Those attending this great event can feel good that all the fun they are having – the food and wines they taste, the auction items they win, the music they enjoy – all the proceeds from this will go to improve our quality of life and learning. With the support of the community, the Friends contributed to the Diamond Bar Library over $40,000 in 2017 for much-needed materials, programs, books, magazines, etc. that would not have been possible without the Wine Soirée and our non-profit bookstores, Basically BOOKS.  The Friends also sponsored Read Together Diamond Bar 2017, a month-long celebration of literacy last October.  We could not do this without the help of the community.

Diamond Bar Community Library Manager Pui-Ching Ho announced recently that the Diamond Bar Library is the highest circulation library out of all 87 Los Angeles County libraries.  Diamond Bar Library has circulation with 470,000 volumes moving in and out of the library last year.  Additionally the Diamond Bar Library ranks sixth in total monthly patronage with a gate count of over 23,000 visitors per month.  The Diamond Bar Friends of the Library dedicate our time and energy to supporting this invaluable community institution—so you can see why we need your help!

 

Corona Residents Sue Over 91 Contruction

By Anthony Saude

Corona – The residents, who live north of the 91 freeway, contend that the pile driving, jack hammering and round-the-clock work at Green River Road damaged their houses and robbed them of most of the mountain views they had previously enjoyed. The freeway construction was part of a larger $1.4 billion freeway improvement project that stretched from 2014 to 2017.

Sleepless nights, cracks in the walls and a rodent infestation is what a group of Corona homeowners say is just some of the damage caused by the 91 Freeway construction over the past few years.

A group of more than a dozen homeowners decided they had enough so they sued the Riverside County Transportation Commission and two companies that worked on the project in late 2016. The homeowners sued over property damage, loss of quality of life, loss in property values and of course now the cost of attorneys.

The lawsuit was filed over a year ago and the residents said they are still waiting for a resolution on the matter.

John Standiford, deputy executive director for the Riverside County Transportation Commission, declined to comment due to pending litigation. Attorneys for Atkinson Contractors and Walsh Construction Company, the two companies named in the lawsuit, have both failed to respond to a request for comment.

67 year old resident Warren Stockwell, has lived in his Pennyroyal Drive home for more than 30 years, and now has cracks running along his ceiling and driveway. He states that the damage was caused by the construction work related to the lengthening and widening of the Green River Road westbound off-ramp.

“I’m 67 years old and still partially working,” resident Warren Stockwell said. “I don’t need this. I want my house fixed.” His house still hasn’t been repaired.

The Green River Road improvements were part of a larger project that added two toll lanes and a general lane in both directions of an 8 mile stretch of freeway from Orange County to the 15 Freeway.

The issues for the homeowners began in 2014 when construction started on the 91 Freeway.

The group said they met with RCTC and construction firms at a neighborhood meeting to ask questions in October 2014. Soon after, Stockwell and other residents began seeking legal options to address the damage.

Sheila Lawrence, who has owned a house in the neighborhood since 1996, said the construction caused problems for her renters.

Lawrence alleges rodents, including kangaroo rats, were driven from their natural habitat outside the neighborhood into the neighborhood after crews started working.

One of the off ramps, the much taller one has caused a host of other problems other problems for the homeowners.

“I have more dirt and emissions coming into the yard and into the back of the house,” Lawrence said. “They can’t even open up the back of the house. If they do, within less than 20 minutes, it is covered in black soot.”

Other neighbors, including Diana Sanches and Julie Sanchez, suffered damage to their homes due to freeway construction. Both stayed at hotels during some of the construction phases after lawyers got involved.

It is estimated that it would cost about $8 million to cover all the damages and attorney fees for the homeowners in the suit.

 

Stay Connected With The City Of Eastvale

Anthony Saude

Eastvale – The representatives of City of Eastvale are going the extra mile for the community once again. It is evident that keeping the community informed and improving is a top priority for the powers that be at City Hall. The love they show for the community is on display again. This time they are offering the residents with some free information to benefit them as well as the community.

The month of April isn’t any different and the City proudly brings the residents a couple of workshops to help benefit the future of its residents and their families.

On Wednesday April 11, at 5:30 p.m. there will be a Financial goal setting workshop held at City Hall followed by a City Council Meeting at 6:30 p.m.

On Wednesday April 25, at 5:30 p.m. there will be a Public Safety Goal Setting Workshop at City Hall followed by a City Council Meeting at 6:30 p.m.

There will be a couple of public meetings in May and we encourage the residents to show up and stay connected.

On May 23 at 5:30 p.m. there will be a Draft Budget first hearing meeting at Rosa Parks Elementary on Whispering Hills Drive in Eastvale.

On June 27 at 5:30 p.m. there will be a Draft Budget second hearing & adoption meeting at Rosa Parks Elementary on Whispering Hills Drive in Eastvale.

These workshops and public meeting are just Eastvale’s way of staying connected to the community. We encourage all residents to attend these special events so that the community can stay connected to the city.

Mental health hospital planned at CIM

California Institution for Men entrance

Staff Reports

A 50-bed mental health facility is expected to be built at the California Institution for Men in Chino in approximately four years.

The prison entrance is located at 14901 Central Ave. at the end of Chino Hills Parkway.

“The first dirt to move on this is at least two years from now and finished construction is at least four years away,” said Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation spokesman Bill Sessa.

The 48,000-square-foot hospital will be built inside the existing prison at a cost of $56.6 million, Mr. Sessa said.

An old building that has outlived its usefulness will be demolished to make way for the facility, he said.

The hospital will be self-contained to provide the care that 50 inmates at a time would require, he said. It would include accommodations for doctors, nurses, and administrative staff.

He said the project will be budgeted in phases. Working drawings and preliminary plans are budgeted at $3.6 million and will probably be completed at the end of 2019, he said. The actual construction costs will be budgeted in future cycles.

Mr. Sessa said the Department of Corrections (CDCR) is required by law to provide mental health care to inmates, from counseling to medication to crisis beds.

He cited a case called Coleman vs. Brown that covers all inmates with serious mental disorders housed in California state prisons.

He said the hospital will be CDCR’s second such facility in southern California. The other one is in the Richard J. Donovan state prison in San Diego, he said.

There are currently 373 beds in CDCR prisons, he said.

“We have a need for these beds in southern California for inmates who need short-term acute care,” Mr. Sessa said. “We have an imbalance at the moment. We have facilities in northern and central California but not in southern California.”

This isn’t the first time  the community has been faced with a prison mental hospital. Back in 1973 it was announced that the Youth Training School on Euclid Avenue, which was being closed by the Youth Authority, would house a psychiatric and treatment center, a proposal that was nixed under local pressure.

A decade ago, the state was working on plans to use a vacant unit at CIM for a mental health hospital. Local leaders, headed by Mayor Dennis Yates, went to Sacramento to strenuously oppose it. The pressure, plus a reduction statewide ion prison population and a cutback in funds, shelved the proposal after several years of local hearings and opposition.

Residents who are interested in learning more about current affairs at the prison may attend the next citizens advisory committee meeting at 9 a.m. Tuesday, April 10 at Chaffey College Chino Community Center, 5890 College Park Ave.

The meetings are held the second Tuesday every two months and are open to the public.

The citizens advisory committee for California Institution for Women meets at 9:30 a.m. following the men’s meeting.

On April 20, Scott Kernan, secretary for the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, will come to Chino for a meeting about CIM and safety concerns as a result of the January escape of an inmate.

Mr. Kernan is expected to meet with city and police officials from Chino Hills and Chino at the prison.

 

Family Fun At DB 29th Birthday Bash

By Sarah Sanchez

Diamond Bar – The City of Diamond Bar is inviting the community to their 29th Birthday Bash on Saturday, April 14.  This annual event celebrates the city’s incorporation with a day of family fun at Pantera Park, located at 738 Pantera Drive.

The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. and will feature a variety of new activities for kids and adults.  Kids will love the carnival rides, games, inflatables, and a new Kiddie Land area that will cater to children ages 8 and younger.  The Kiddie Land will feature several age appropriate inflatables, activities, a puppet show, and a magic show.

Community members can also sit back and watch local groups and solo acts perform on stage, while enjoying food provided by various vendors.  In addition, several volunteers will be recognized at this birthday celebration, as part as the City’s Community Hero Award program.  Then, you will be able to enter various giveaways at the information booths and business showcase.  But the event highlights will be the Heritage Display, and the Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Area.

The Heritage Display will feature a short video, a display of photographs, memorabilia, and artifacts that tell the story of Diamond Bar’s ranch days.  This area will discuss how Diamond Bar’s land was “once known as Rancho Los Nogales, founded in 1840 by Jose de la Luz Linares to a grant issued by Governor Juan Bautista Alvarado of Mexico,” according to the City of Diamond Bar.  Established by Frederick E. Lewis II in 1918, the Diamond Bar Ranch was known as one of the most respected ranches in Southern California.  If you want to find out more about Diamond Bar’s Ranch history, stop by the Heritage Display, where you will take part in activities like rope making, blacksmithing, and gold panning to demonstrate the life in the 1800s and 1900s.

The Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness Area will feature our local public safety agencies, such as the Los Angeles County sheriff’s and fire departments, and emergency medical response personnel.  The information, resources, and giveaways that will be displayed are aiming to improve personal safety, reduce property crime, and prepare for emergencies, such as earthquakes or wildfires.  This will be a great area to visit, meet the local personnel, learn about crime prevention techniques, and pick up a free pine tree seedling ready for planting.  You will also be able to enter the “Shakey Quakey School House” that simulates shaking, falling objects, and sounds typical during an earthquake.  In addition, your child can have an identification card made with his or her fingerprints, height, weight and other identifying information documented for your records.

Event admission is free for this birthday party, but there will be nominal fees for the kids’ activities: carnival rides ($10 unlimited access), Kiddie Land ($5 unlimited access), and games and activities ($1 card for any four).  Don’t forget to bring cash too, as this is a cash-only event, and bills larger than $20 cannot be accepted.

Also, if you park on a surrounding neighborhood street, a free and frequent shuttle service will take you to and from Pantera Park.  This shuttle service will start to transport local residents at 10:30 a.m. and continue until the end of the event.

There are so many great things to look forward to at this year’s Diamond Bar Birthday Celebration.  But many local residents are excited to simply get together with the members of our community.

Gil Rivera, Diamond Bar resident and local realtor, agrees that the community is a big reason why he loves attending the birthday celebration each year.  “I enjoy the fact that our community is so diverse,” said Rivera, who is also the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club President.  “Especially on that day, we gather together as one family to enjoy rides, food, and entertainment!”

So stop by this year’s Diamond Birthday Celebration on April 14th for a great day of fun, food, and activities to enjoy with your “like family” community!

 

Planting Seeds

By Mark Hopper

I have an Aunt who lives in Des Moines Iowa. She was an elementary school teacher and principal for many years. Now she is retired and in her 90’s. We were able to visit her when my wife and I went to see the Solar Eclipse in the mid-west last summer.

We enjoyed our conversations with her and learned a lot about my family roots in a small town outside of Des Moines called Boone, Iowa.  She told us stories about my grandmother and about life in Iowa.

One thing that she shared with us was her tradition of planting tomato seeds in small containers in her house in Iowa in February. She often saved seeds from the previous years, dried them out and planted them in the late winter. It was too cold in Iowa to plant the seeds outdoors, so she started them in her house and set them in the kitchen window sill to get plenty of sunlight.

So in her honor, I decided to do the same thing here in our house in California. I saved some seeds from one of last year’s tomatoes and dried them out in our garage. In early February, I planted the seeds in a little plastic “tray” that had six small compartments, like the ones you buy at the local home improvement store.

I got some soil from my garden, planted one or two seeds in each compartment and waited to see what would happen. I was so excited to see that at least one seed in each little compartment sprouted! It was fascinating to see tiny, thin plants emerge from the moist soil. The first little spouts were as thin a hair. Then a two tiny leaves emerged over the next few days and these little plants begin to grow bigger.

It was a slow process. But each day I would check on these little plants to see how much they had grown each day. I was excited to show these little tomato plants to our grandchildren when they would come to visit our house each week. I think they were excited too.

Unfortunately, I decided to add a little fertilizer to these fragile plants. I think that was a mistake. Over the next few days, I notice some of the tiny tomatoes plants began to look unhealthy. I think I may have over done it a little.

Since my wife and I were scheduled to go out of town for a few days, we sent to small tray of tomato plants home with the grandkids. When we returned the next week, only one plant had survived. Bummer.

But, one living plant is more than we had last winter and even one tomato plant can produce a large crop. I suspect that we will go to the home improvement store or local nursery and purchase some additional plants for the coming season, but I am hopeful that my one little friend will produce a bumper crop of tasty tomatoes this year.

In Paul’s letter to the Corinthian Christians he says, “One plants, another waters, but God causes it to grow’ (First Corinthians 3:6-7). The miracle of life seems to be conclusive evidence of the existence of God.  One small, tiny seed can grow into a healthy plant and produce fruit that in turn contains dozens of seeds for the next season. And another crop! Amazing!

Let me encourage you to get busy and plant some seeds this spring. Watch the miracle of life emerge from the soil and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Why not plant some seeds in honor of my Aunt?  I think you will be glad you did and I’m sure she will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond BAr Blvd

909-594-7604

Easter Sunday Services: 8:30 / 10:00 & 11:30 AM

Efreedb.org

 

Diamond Bar High presents ‘The Little Mermaid’

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR, CA–The Diamond Bar High School Performing Arts Department opens up its spring season with the Disney musical “The Little Mermaid” showing April 13, 14, 19, 20, and 21 at 7 p.m., with 2 p.m. matinee on April 14.

 

Fans of Disney’s “The Little Mermaid” and musical theatre won’t be disappointed with the live version of this beloved animated film that will soon splash onto the Diamond Bar High stage.

 

“The Little Mermaid” features memorable songs including “Kiss the Girl, “Under the Sea”, “Part of Your World” by Alan Menken (music) and Howard Ashman (lyrics).

 

From stellar performances — including a scene-stealing Ursula — to gorgeous costumes, beautiful sets and fun ensemble dance numbers, everything those who enjoy live theater could want they will find in the production.

 

Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for students and may be purchased online at seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama.

 

Diamond Bar High School is located at 21400 E. Pathfinder Road in Diamond Bar.

Teens Needed For City Summer Programs

Staff Reports

Chino Hills– The City of Chino Hills’ Community Services Department is looking for enthusiastic teens, ages 13 to 16 years old, to volunteer this summer. Volunteens, as they are referred to, will assist in the City’s Aquatics, Summer Day Camp, Mobile Recreation, and Special Events programs.

Applications for the Volunteen program will be available starting Monday, April 2nd  and will be available only until the first 80 applications are received. Applications will be available online at http://www.chinohills.org/Volunteens; at City Hall in the Community Services Office on the first floor, 14000 City Center Drive; and at the Chino Hills Community Center, 14250 Peyton Drive. All completed applications MUST be submitted to the Community Services Department at City Hall. Of the 80 applications accepted, up to 40 teens will be selected for the program.

The summer 2018 program will begin the week of June 11th and end the week of August 6th. A mandatory training is scheduled for May 30th for selected applicants. Volunteens must be certified in First Aid and CPR prior to June 11th.  Kayla with the recreations department said, “call the Chino Valley Fire District for information on how to get your teen CPR certified.” Volunteens who successfully complete the program will receive a certificate of appreciation, a letter of recommendation, and recognition at the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting.

For more information, please call (909) 364-2700.

Chino Hills Boys Basketball CIF CHAMPIONS!

By Anthony Saude

Chino Hills – For the past five years, the Ball family has ruled Chino Hills basketball. Patriarch LaVar Ball oversaw the rise of eldest son Lonzo from promising point guard to surefire NBA Draft pick. In Lonzo’s last season with the Huskies they won everything, taking the state title and the USA TODAY Super 25 national title. A season later with new coach later, Chino Hills led by brothers LiAngelo and LaMelo Ball, fell just short of another berth in the state title game.

LaMelo Ball left Chino Hills this year for a professional future in Europe. Lavar pulled him from the school and decided to home school him for his senior year. Dennis Latimore the 1st year coach, after being publicly chastised by LaVar and LeMelo as soon as they left the school, had the last laugh. You would have to score that Latimore 1, Ball 0.

The Huskies claimed their second state title in three seasons led by Junior Onyeka Okongwu, the unquestioned leader of this squad after the departure of LaMelo. Onyeka put together a great night with 27 points, 14 rebounds, three assists and five blocked shots.

The last remaining Ball family member at Chino Hills, cousin Andre Ball had 17 points in the victory. Did the team peak at just the right time this year or were they finally able to focus on basketball and not the Ball family traveling circus.

When reporters asked Latimore about losing Onyeka to foul trouble during the game, his answer could have easily been about LaMelo and LaVar, “I think the team showed they are more than one individual player,” Latimore said. “Our big guy went out, but the team stayed united. That’s what teamwork is all about, and they went and got it done.”

 

Diamond Bar High Robotics Team Headed to World Championships

Regional Champs!

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR—After a long weekend of broken parts and design flaws to overcome, Diamond Bar High’s Team Sprocket took home the prestigious blue banner as winners of the 2018 Orange County Regional FIRST Robotics Competition (FRC) on Saturday.

The team has now qualified for the World Championships that will be held in Houston, Texas on April 18-21.

“We couldn’t have done this without all of the support from our members, alumni, parents, mentors, teachers and our sponsors,” said senior captain Karen Tan after the four-day competition held at UCI Bren Events Center.

“We will first celebrate the accomplishments of our hard work over the course of the season, and then we will focus on learning from the mistakes we made this year, so we can improve our program and grow to be even more successful in the future.”

On Friday, the competitive robotics team hosted 36 students from Chaparral, South Pointe and Suzanne Middle Schools to tour the FRC competition pits and enjoy matches in an effort to inspire the next generation of engineers.

After two days of game play, Sprocket #3473 finished qualification matches with a record of 7-3-0 and ranked 12th out of 52 teams.

The team was then selected as the 1st pick for the 3rd Ranked Alliance, including alliance members “Assembly Required” (Santa Margarita) and “The Midnight Mechanics” (La Jolla).

In the exciting Finals match, Team Sprocket defeated the 1st ranked alliance (2-0).

“This accomplishment is even more impressive considering that the #1 Alliance consisted of the #1 & #2 overall ranked teams. Team Sprocket and their alliance members stunned the arena by taking down “Goliath” in two straight matches with an unconventional defensive strategy… securing the title of FRC Orange County Regional Winners,” said instructional dean and advisor Gabriel Aguilar.

This is the second year in a row that the Diamond Bar High team qualified to compete at the World Championships.

“This is a testament to the high-quality instruction that these students are receiving in DBHS STEM classes!” Aguilar added.

Perris Woman Dies On 60 Freeway In Chino

Staff Reports 

Chino –  At approximately 7:38 p.m. a 1998 Jeep Cherokee driven by a 19-year-old male in the far right lane veered into the right shoulder for reasons unknown and struck the back of a Ford Taurus. Three were injured in the accident. In addition to the driver, the car also contained two children. According to reports a 10-year-old girl was seated in the right front passenger seat and a 4-year-old boy in the right rear passenger seat.

About 7:45 p.m., firefighters with Chino Valley Fire District responded to a call of a two-car crash on the right shoulder of the eastbound 60 Freeway in Chino at Central Avenue, Sunday night, March 25.

The driver, 31-year old Ashley Sharade Morales of Perris, died in the hospital after her vehicle was struck by a motorist. Morlas was driving eastbound on the 60 Freeway when her car began having mechanical problems, she pulled over to the right shoulder and called for help, said Sgt. M. Solorzano of the California Highway Patrol.

Fire crews transported the four occupants of the two vehicles to Chino Valley Medical Center. According to a press release from the San Bernardino County Coroner, Morales succumbed to her injuries a short time after she arrived in the Emergency Room. There is no information on the children at this time.

The CHP is investigating whether speed, reckless driving, drugs or alcohol may have been a factor in the crash

Free Essential Oils Workshop

By Anthony Saude

Chino – There is so many uses for essential oils and countless combinations for even more uses, it can be downright confusing and overwhelming.

Clark’s Nutrition, as always, wants to inform and educate their customers on healthy habits and how it can affect their lives in a positive manner. The month of April is Essential Oils month at Clark’s in 2018. Every Tuesday at 6 p.m. during the month of April, Clark’s will have Free Essential Oils workshop at all locations. This workshop will educate you so you feel more comfortable with using your essential oils. You can come in for 1 hour every Tuesday and learn how to make your own essential oil blends. The last class will be on the last day of the month, a Saturday, and will be a 2 hour review of all that you have learned during all of the workshops combined. The Workshop schedule and topics are as follows:

Tuesday April 3 – Essential Oils Basics (How to use oils)

Tuesday April 10 – Spring in the Home

Tuesday April 17 – Spa Day!

Tuesday April 24 – Wellness Happy Hour

Saturday April 28 – Special 2-hour workshop on various oils from previous Tuesday classes

Maybe you just started using essential oils or maybe the thought of it is just overwhelming to think about come in, relax and let Clark’s do all the heavy lifting.  See ad on page 7 of the Weekly News for great deals on fruit and vegetables!