Category Archives: News By City

Heart 2 Serve: Offering Hope To The Hopeless

Combining Community Outreach with Business Services

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino Hills – For four years now, an organization has existed somewhat under the radar providing services to both individuals and the community at large.

Heart 2 Serve, a privately owned and operated 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, currently assists adult individuals in substance abuse recovery and reintegration as productive members of society through community service and construction businesses offered to the San Bernardino and Los Angeles County areas.

This faith-based (Christian) organization was founded by Brian and Cindy Baughman, with the help of fellow faith members, in 2013. It initially began as a construction company, followed by what was termed an “RV ministry” for transitional living. In 2015, Heart 2 Serve, Inc. became a 501(c)(3) entity, focused entirely on individuals who truly wanted help.

Heart 2 Serve provides all that is necessary to rebuild individual lives that have fallen into hopelessness due to substance addiction through the business built from these humble beginnings. Currently, the organization assists often-stigmatized individuals, including parolees and homeless persons, in their recovery through provision of work, shelter, food, and clothing, so as to reintegrate them as productive members of society.

Heart 2 serve offers a 2-year program that begins with establishing a life-plan of achievable goals designed to measure a client’s progress, rebuild his confidence, and discover newfound hope.

According to its mission statement, Heart 2 Serve Inc. is “the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things unseen.” From the ashes of all the ruins of lives destroyed by addiction, there is birthed a new life amidst despair in the act of serving others. Thus, the name was chosen: Heart 2 Serve.

Among the services required and/or available for a client of the transitional living and reintegration program is participation in the following: substance abuse recovery programs (12 Step meetings), spiritual counseling, safe shelter, employment and skill training (through the construction and moving services training), health and care, food and clothing, legal assistance, education and transportation, and, finally, gainful employment.

The professional contracting and moving services that Heart 2 Serve provides through its nonprofit not only helps fun their ministry, but it also offers an opportunity for individuals in the program to learn new skills and earn an income.

To that end, Heart 2 Serve is a licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor, able to meet every commercial and residential construction and moving needs.

What attracts individuals and businesses to hire Heart 2 Serve over other companies is not just the low pricing, but, as a non-profit, there is also a substantial tax savings provided in using the service, as it is considered a “charitable contribution” on tax forms.
Good cause. Good savings. Rebuilding society from the ground up – literally. Not much else one could desire from a nonprofit, really.
For more information, visit www.h2si.org.

 

A Cow Bell

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Many years ago my wife and I and a group of adults from our church traveled to Romania.  We worked in partnership with a young pastor and growing church in the middle of the country.

In addition to visiting their church in the city of Cluj, we spent a week together in a rural village near the Transylvania mountains.

A number of young couples participated in a week-long marriage retreat.

In addition to daily discussions on marriage, there was also time for recreation and relaxation.  The Romanians were just as competivte as Americans.  Coed volleyball games were enjoyed by all of us.

One day during the week, I saw a line of cows walking down a dirt road near the field where we were playing volleyball.

The lead cow had a small brass bell hanging from a strap around his neck.  He was leading the other cows back into the village at the end of the day from the grassy fields nearby.

I told the members of our team that we were going to continue to play volleyball until the “cows come home”.  They didn’t know how accurate my prediction was.  We ended the game a few minutes later after the cows passed by us on the dirt road.

Recently while I was playing with our granddaughter at our house,  she had discovered a small cow bell on a self in our bedroom.  She was intrigued by its size and sound.  She didn’t know that this small bell was a gift from our friends in Romania.

I had not noticed that bell for years, but it immediately brought back fond memories of our trip to Romania and the wonderful friends we met there many years ago.

You probably have some keepsakes and souvenirs that remind you of people and events in your life.  You may have a picture or a plaque that brings back special memories of places you have been.

In one example in the Bible,  the people of Israel piled up twelve large boulders along the bank of the Jordan River.  These large stones were to serve as a reminder that the Israelites crossed the Jordan River on dry ground (Joshua chapter 4).These large stones were to remind future generations of this remarkable event in their nation’s history.

I think we all need visual, tangible objects to help us remember special events and special people in our lives.  You probably have some things around your house – pictures, trophies, and souveniours.  Let me encourage you to take some time this week to look around your house or office and reflect on the memories you find there.

Take time to tell your children and grandchildren the meaning and significance of some of the things that are hanging on your walls or sitting on the shelves in your house.  Maybe it is time to add a few new ones while you have the 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

“Protect Chino” Launches Prop H Campaign

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino, CA – There is a grass-roots group – “Protect Chino No on H” – campaigning against a large housing development that will be built if passed on special ballot July 11. Developer D.R. Horton plans to build 180 homes in north Chino if the special election ballot passes.

There is vehement opposition to this ballot in and around the surrounding neighborhoods. If approved, the measure stipulates that 20 acres of rural land south of Francis Avenue would be rezoned. In place of rural space will be 12 single-family homes, 87 detached single-family homes, and 73 condos.

May 20 there will be a community meeting scheduled for 4 p.m. at Wolfinbarger landscape store, 5675 Francis Avenue, in Chino, for those opposing Measure H.

In response to this group, property owners of the rural land have organized a committee called “Support Chino Jobs and Schools, Yes, on Measure H.”

Currently, 30 acres of parceled land north of Cinemark Movies in Chino is zoned for one house per acre, possessing the grazing land and 8 single-family houses. In a Chino City Council meeting in April, the council voted 4-1 to place Measure H on the ballot for citywide election.

Chairman of “No on H” Ed Layaye stated, “The neighborhood is very concerned about this project, “We’re meeting weekly and figuring out how to compete with a multi-billion dollar corporation like D.R. Horton.”

Former mayor Larry Walker is the group treasurer and wrote the argument opposing Measure H, stating, “I’ve become aware of a dramatic number of developments cooking in Chino and it seems like every one is a violation of the general plan,” he said. “I told the people 40 years ago the general plan should be the guide for the development of Chino.”

The property owners of the rural land are long-time Chino residents, and state that this development is a benefit for the city. Matt Evans and father-in-law Ron Brewer, stated that more than 600 Chino residents have expressed support for the project.

Evans declared, “   “Ron Brewer and I believe that Measure H will be a positive step forward for our entire community. It will enable young Chino residents the opportunity to raise their families here and offers new home ownership in an affordable part of the city.”

Other owners echo this sentiment, saying that this development will lure more potential residents to Chino, thus bringing in more economical revenue to be used municipally.

Special ballot is to occur on July 11 of this year.

Competitive Coverage To Meet Your Family’s Needs

Melanie Smith-Rice of State Farm Insurance in Norco.

Melanie Smith-Rice of State Farm Insurance in Norco.

Staff Reports

Norco – At the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office, 24-hour good neighbor service is at the forefront.  Smith-Rice is confident that she can meet your needs for all insurance and financial services, and promises to wow you with expert professional service.

A State Farm Agent since 1985 and a Corona resident since 1971, Smith-Rice understands the needs of the community and has worked hard to provide a palette of services that makes one-stop-shopping easy and affordable.  Along with Auto insurance, Smith-Rice provides Home Owners and Renters Insurance.

“A home is a big investment, so let’s make sure you have enough coverage at the right rate,” says Smith-Rice.  As well, protecting your personal property may be more affordable than you think.  “The average person has over $200,000 worth of stuff that is probably not covered under your landlord’s policy.  That’s where our State Farm Renters insurance comes into play,” she adds.

More important than the care of your property is the care of your family.  Along with Life Insurance, the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office can provide various types of health insurance, including Long-Term Care should you become unable to care for yourself.

And for the business owner, Smith-Rice says, “I understand the needs of a business owner like you.  Together we can help protect your business and plan a roadmap for your financial future.

As if all this weren’t enough, the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office can provide you with financial services such as Mutual Funds, Annuities, and even Banking (yes, Banking!), including Bank Accounts, Credit Cards, and Loans.

Don’t wait another minute to help ensure your family’s well being.  Call the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office today, and get peace of mind in return.  A staff of professional experts is standing by at (951) 734-5290, or Toll-Free at (888) 734-5292.  They are located at 2027 River Road in Norco, in the Stater Bros. shopping center at Second Street and River Road.

“I’m There”

By Pastor Rob Norris

“I have no one else of kindred spirit who will genuinely be concerned for your welfare.”
Philippians 2:20

Gary Thomas, author of such inspiring books as Sacred Marriage and Authentic Faith: The Power of a Fire-Tested Life, tells the story of two American soldiers who became fast friends during their preparations for combat in World War I. Though they had known each other only a short time, the camaraderie of battle and their shared dreams of postwar life quickly cemented their relationship.

One day, these two buddies crawled from their foxhole with the rest of their unit in an attack on the German forces. After a valiant fight, the order was given to retreat. But only one of the two friends returned to the trench. The other had been hit by German gunfire and was lying about 50 yards out of reach.

Against his commanding officer’s orders, the other soldier crawled out of the ditch to go find his fallen comrade. Hugging the ground and dodging enemy bullets, he worked his way across the bloody, corpse-littered ground until he finally located the friend he sought. Finding him semi-conscious, they were left with only a few seconds together before he died.

When the man returned to the trench with the body of his soldier friend, the ranking officer flew into a rage for this overt flaunting of his order, asking, “Was it worth it for you to risk your life?”

“Absolutely, sir. Because when I turned him over, he looked up at me and said, ‘I knew you’d come.'”

That’s the kind of loyalty we are called to in all our relationships–especially in our homes and families. Your spouse needs to know without a doubt that when you are needed, you will be there. Your children need to know they can count on you, not just in a pinch, but also in their most routine of expectations. When they need you, can they be sure you’ll come?

Live it:
How can your marriage and family practically demonstrate this kind of love for one another?

Pray:
Pray that the Lord will keep you sensitive to each other, anticipating when you’re needed most.

 

Meeting @ 10:00 at River Heights Intermediate School 7227 Scholar Way, Eastvale CA.

Trusting and believing with you, Join us on Mother’s Day for a celebration service.

Pastor Rob

 

City of Chino Hills Launches Mobile App

Staff Reports

 

Chino Hills, CA – The City of Chino Hills is proud to announce the launch of a customized App for Chino Hills residents and visitors. The official City of Chino Hills App is now available for free in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Marketplace for Android. Residents and visitors can stay connected with the community through their smart phone with just a few taps of the screen.

App users have access to incredible information about the City’s trails and parks with a simple touch of the smartphone screen. City staff completed a major project to compile useful information for trail and park users in the City as part of the Healthy Hills Program which promotes healthy lifestyles for residents. Click on any trail and check difficulty, time estimates for beginning hikers, distance, and even elevation gain. A chart shows the elevation of the entire trail so hikers can decide if they are ready to tackle a hike with multiple climbs in elevation. Trail photos, trailhead locations, access points, parking availability, and connections to other trails are noted and shown on a map. With GIS enabled on the smartphone, users can track their progress on the trail. For people without a smartphone, trails information is also available on the City website at http://www.chinohills.org/Trails.

Take a tour around the App for access to much more information. Looking to adopt a pet? Click on “Adopt-A-Pet” and be linked to photos of pets that are available at the Inland Valley Humane Society. Click on “News” for current events or items of interest. Click on “Recreation” for quick links to information on parks, facilities, and local attractions. Select any park or facility to view photos, special amenities and features, and get directions to the park. Some locations feature 360 degree video tours. Users may also easily report items of concern to the City from their smartphone. Select “Report an Issue” and report graffiti, a streetlight outage, code enforcement issues, and water waste or submit a service request. Residents taking those amazing pictures of Chino Hills from their smart phones can now share beauty shots of through a picture share feature on the app.

Here We Grow: Amazon Fulfillment Center and Costco Building

By Marissa Mitchell

Eastvale – Amazon will soon be opening its new fulfillment center in the Inland Empire, Eastvale, adding at least 1,000 more jobs.

Postings for job positions have been found on local job sites such as Indeed.com for fulfillment managers and employees.

In the city of Eastvale, Amazon employees, will handle and process “small” customer items, including books, electronics, and toys, at a 1 million-square-foot facility built by the Goodman Group.

All over the state, more than 15,000 full-time Amazon employees process and ship customer orders at nine current California fulfillment centers in  in San Bernardino, Eastvale, Redlands, Rialto, Moreno Valley, Tracy and Patterson, in addition to sortation centers in San Bernardino and Newark.

Eastvale City Manager Michele Nissen stated, “This is a really exciting project for us because of the jobs that will be coming.” The jobs will help diversify the economy and community, as well as build revenue.

Because of augmented demand for the Inland Empire Amazon facilities, Nissen declared, “retailers in this position have to expand, otherwise they’re going to lose market share to other competitors.”

Amazon also provides a boost to the economy in the form of education. Amazon’s Career Choice program, offered to Amazon associates who have had at least one year of experience working for the company, pre-pays up to 95 percent of tuition for college courses related to in-demand fields, independent of whether the employee’s skills are relevant to a career at Amazon.

Because of this, more than 9,000 employees have pursued degrees in game design and visual communications, nursing, IT programming and radiology, among other career paths.

Amazon isn’t the only construction happening in Eastvale lately. A new Costco is now in the making – one with the region’s first Costco car wash.

The soon-to-be 158,000 square foot Costco on the east side of Hamner Avenue will showcase a 45-acre retail complex, according to Nissen, who stated, “Assuming there are no additional delays due to weather, we’re hoping Costco will open in late [this year]”.

The Costco will also provide a 30-position gas station.

“Costco has been probably the No. 1 retailer our residents have requested,” Nissen said, “and the sales tax generation from the Costco facility will make a significant difference to the long term sustainability for the city. It’s a conservative estimate that Costco would generate $1 million in sales tax annually to the general fund.”

The proposed retail center will include restaurants and house-shops…up to 14 of them, shaped in an “L.” If approved, Nissen and city planner Eric Norris stated those retailers could open late this year or early 2018.

“We have the Costco coming and we recently announced that we have an additional (Amazon fulfillment center), and between Costco and Amazon, that’s going to bring a substantial amount of employment to Eastvale,” stated Eastvale Councilman Todd Rigby. “And with the employment coming, we know that people that work in an area tend to spend money in the area.”

A Costco spokesperson declined to comment on plans for Eastvale, citing in an email company policy to withhold comment on future Costco locations.

 

Tips From Deputy Myers

Dear Deputy Myers:

How can I become more involved with my community and the Sheriff’s Department?

Did you know the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has numerous volunteers that assist the department with many different aspects of their day to day operations?  It’s true, and there are hundreds of volunteers department wide that are vital to assisting the department in various ways. Being the volunteer coordinator, as well as many other things, I get to see just how valuable the volunteers are to us every day! I directly supervise the Explorers, Mounted Posse, and Citizen Volunteer Patrol.

Not everyone can be an Explorer (due to age restrictions), and not everyone can be a member of the volunteer Mounted Posse (due to not having interest in horses), but nearly anyone over the age of 18 can be a Citizen Volunteer. The Citizen Volunteer Patrol meets once a month (the fourth Wednesday of every month) at 700pm at the Jurupa Valley Station. They have the opportunity to work hand in hand with deputies on patrol, assist with major incidents, DUI checkpoints, provide an added level of eyes and ears on the streets, logistics, and assist with community events (just to name a few). The station Volunteer Citizen Patrol helps in the contract cities of Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, and the outer lying unincorporated county areas. The Volunteers are a vital part of operations throughout the department.

If being a volunteer sounds like something that may interest you and you have the extra time, please come out to one of our meetings, learn about our program, meet some of our current volunteers, and possibly pick up a background packet to get started in something that can provide you with free training and a sense of community.

Deanna Myers is the Volunteer and Programs Coordinator for the Jurupa Valley Station of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department that services the Eastvale Police Department.  She has been with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department for about nine years, and most recently was assigned to patrol within the City of Eastvale before moving into her current position where she is in charge of the Neighborhood Watch program for the City of Eastvale.

 

Eastvale Community News Complete Edition May 2017

The Eastvale Community News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco,  Corona, and Chino. Click the following link to access the complete issue in pdf format: 2017-5.EastvaleNews

Remembering Pomona Police Officer Daniel Fraembs

Photo courtesy: Pomona PD

Pomona PD

End of Watch: Saturday, May 11, 1996

Pomona Police Officer Daniel Fraembs was shot and killed while checking on three suspicious subjects, two male gang members and a female, in an industrial area of Pomona on May 11, 1996.

As Officer Fraembs patted down the first male suspect the second man was able to draw a .45 caliber handgun and fatally shot Officer Fraembs.  The gang member responsible was captured and sentenced to death in 1997.

 

Looking back at Officer Daniel Fraembs childhood, he was destined for a career in law enforcement.  Daniel was found orphaned on a beach in Hong Kong and taken into an orphanage by a local policeman. At nine months old, he was adopted by Donald and Dorothy Fraembs of Cincinnati, Ohio, and became a citizen of the United States in 1963. He rose to the rank of sergeant during four years in the U.S. Marine Corps until receiving an honorable discharge, and 3 years later, in 1988, started his appointment to the Orange County Sheriff’s Department.  He worked with the Sheriff’s Department for 5 years, before joining the Pomona Police Department.

We will never forget Officer Daniel Fraembs.

Pomona Police Officers Killed in the Line of Duty:

6. Officer Shaun Richard Diamond
Pomona Police Department

EOW: Wednesday, October 29, 2014

Cause of Death: Gunfire

 

  1. Police Officer Daniel T. Fraembs

Pomona Police Department, CA

EOW: Saturday, May 11, 1996

Cause of Death: Gunfire

 

  1. Captain Richard Barry Zbinden

Pomona Police Department, CA

EOW: Tuesday, August 13, 1991

Cause of Death: Gunfire

 

  1. Officer Carlo Angelo Poggetto

Pomona Police Department, CA

EOW: Monday, March 11, 1957

Cause of Death: Motorcycle accident

 

  1. Officer George Edward Muriset

Pomona Police Department, CA

EOW: Friday, April 9, 1954

Cause of Death: Motorcycle accident

 

  1. Chief of Police Henry P. Tracy

Pomona Police Department, CA

EOW:  May 3, 1915

Cause of Death: Motorcycle accident

 

SB 130 Restores Funding to Eastvale

By Marissa Mitchell

SACRAMENTO – Early this month, Senate Bill 130 was approved by the California State Senate (34-0), thus restoring vital funding to for the newly incorporated cities of Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Menifee, and Wildomar. The bill was later approved by the California State Assembly on a bipartisan vote of 72-1.

Senator Richard Roth of Riverside declared regarding the passage, “For too long, Sacramento has failed to provide our region with its fair share. There is no reason why these particular cities should be excluded from receiving an equitable share of state revenue which every other California city receives. SB 130 is a critical measure of fairness and equity, and I thank my colleagues on both sides of the aisle for their support and for recognizing how important this funding is for our cities’ residents.”

The City of Eastvale will receive funds that they were not privy to prior to passage of Bill 130. Instead, because each of the four cities were incorporated before the passage of Senate Bill 89 (2011), they suffered great financial difficulties. Senate Bill 89 was one of the steps that the legislature took to close the state budget gap, and resulted in cities which had incorporated after 2004 losing critical public safety and municipal services funding previously given to all newly incorporated cities.

Senator Roth would continue, “Riverside County’s four newest cities are one step closer to receiving the funding they deserve and, in the case of Jurupa Valley, desperately need. This is an issue I have fought for since before I was even elected, and I am proud to have a strong partner in Assembly member Sabrina Cervantes (D-Corona) in ensuring our cities and region receive their fair share from Sacramento.”

Assembly member Sabrina Cervantes (D-Corona) and Senator Richard D. Roth (D-Riverside) issued the following joint statement on their support for SB 130: “We thank our colleagues on both sides of the aisle for supporting SB 130 and recognizing how important this funding is for our cities’ residents. For too long, Sacramento has failed to provide our region with its fair share. SB 130 is a critical measure of fairness and equity which ensures Riverside County’s four newest cities will once again have the resources they need to keep our neighborhoods and families safe.

“This is a major victory that will provide these four cities with the funding they deserve and, in the case of Jurupa Valley, desperately need. There is no reason why these particular cities should be excluded from receiving an equitable share of state revenue which every other California city receives. We look forward to receiving the Governor’s signature on this measure and finally delivering a fair share of resources to our cities.”

SB 130 will now go on to Governor Jerry Brown for his approval or veto.

A Small Box

By Mark Hopper

I think most husbands have difficulty finding gifts for their wife.  After many years of marriage, it is hard to think of something new and creative to give her. From a husband’s perspective,  most wives who have been married for 25 or 30 years have everything they need.  We have been married 45 years!  What else could she possibly need?

Since I wasn’t sure what to do,  I called one of our daughters and asked for some suggestions.  One idea she thought of was to give my wife theater tickets to a Musical that was coming to southern California in the spring. The nice thing about theater tickets is that my wife enjoys receiving them and she looks forward to the date we will actually use them!  The anticipation adds to the enjoyment.

Another suggestion was to give my wife a gift card to one of her favorite clothing stores so she could pick out a dress or an outfit herself.  That does eliminate the surprise factor but it does allow her to find something she likes. Finally in desperation, I decided to go to the Mall myself on the Saturday before Christmas and see what I could find.  I had a budget in mind and thought I would start in the jewelry department.  The Mall was crowded and parking was scarce, but I was determined to not leave without a Christmas gift for my wife.  After I finally found a parking space, I set out on my quest.

Since I had not been to the jewelry department in years, it took me a while to find it.  Several helpful clerks were waiting for me. I’m sure they know what a desperate husband looks like on Christmas Eve. I decided to lay my cards on the table and simply asked the clerk what could I buy within my budget?  I was surprised at how willing they were to help me.  They even had some items on sale within my price range. When I picked out the item I liked,  they informed me that the special reduced sale price wasn’t available until after Christmas. Bummer!  But, they assured me that they could check with their manager and see if they could sell me the item at the special after Christmas reduced price now.  Was this a scam?  Was I their next victim?  I held my breath.

Finally, the clerk returned with good news.  They were glad to sell me the item now at the after Christmas price.  It was within my budget and they even offered to wrap it.  Success!

Before they wrapped the little velvet box, they removed the price tag and gave it to me.  According to the tag, the original price was several times higher than what I paid.  I was impressed with my bargaining skills! I left the Mall with a gift in hand.  Like Julius Caesar said,  “Venti, vidi, vici” – “I came, I saw and I conquered”.

My wife was thrilled with her Christmas gift.  It was a winner.  She couldn’t believe that I would buy something this nice.  She was very pleased and very surprised.  Who was I?  Where was her real husband?? I managed to leave the price tag in an obscure place knowing that she would eventually find it.  When she saw it a few days after Christmas, she called me immediately and asked if I had really spent that much on her gift. I reassured her that she was worth every cent, but I tried to avoid telling her I that I had actually paid the after Christmas super discount price.  I hope you won’t tell her either. I hope your holidays were as much fun as ours.  Gift giving is a risky business.  It is hard to find the right gift for the woman who already has everything!  This Christmas was a winner!

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

(909) 594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM

EFreedb.org

“Our Everything”

By Pastor Dennis Morales

“The LORD is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer; My God, my strength, in whom I will trust; My shield and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.”Psalm 18:2

David, the author of this Psalm, writes eight titles referencing God and His reliability.  He experienced God’s hand of protection and deliverance from his enemies and now David is worshipping God for His faithfulness during battle.  I’m sure David sang often in battle.  I heard it once said a young boy was trying to pull a large weed from his front yard.  Suddenly, the weed came out, root and all, and the boy was thrown back and fell in the process.

A man happened to be passing by and replied to the young boy, “That sure was a hard pull!”  The boy replied, “It sure is tough when you have the whole world pulling against you.”  We can all feel what this boy said at times.   The cares and concerns of the “pulling world” have a way of fading away in God’s presence.  Pressures, demands, deadlines, and failures are no match for the reliability of God.   He strengthens you when you are at your weakest point (2 Corinthians 12:9).  David rejoiced that God was everything he needed to get through the most difficult of situations.   When the battle rages or the world pulls, it takes strong faith to worship.  But as you worship, you will find the One supplying the strength to worship is your “stronghold.”  God is closer than you think and He is “able to supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus”  (Phil 4:19).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays 8:30 & 10:30 am, Wednesdays at 7pm at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale). 

Mustang Signing Day

Walnut High athletes make college commitments official

 By Kelli Gile

WALNUT, CA—Walnut High School celebrated seven elite athletes who have received scholarships to play college sports during a lunchtime ceremony on Wednesday.

Bella Amezcua – soccer, Jacob Garcia, Royce Labuguen, Frankie Zamarripa, and Brandon Godoy – baseball, Malia Avila – track, and Mia Dow – wrestling, signed national letters of intent as families and friends cheered them on.

“It’s exciting! Today makes all the years of hard work pay off,” said defender Bella Amezcua who committed to play soccer at Cal State University, Dominquez Hills.

Four varsity baseball teammates committed to continue playing their sport at the collegiate level during the May 4 event.

“It felt really good signing these papers today!” said pitcher Royce Labuguen who will attend Cal State University, Dominguez hills.

Labuguen said “it felt like home” when he recently toured the campus and met with the coaching staff.

“They’re really nice and welcoming.”

“This is something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time. It’s a dream come true,” said first baseman Frankie Zamarripa who will attend Clarke University in Dubuque Iowa.

Zamarripa said he’s been playing since he was about seven-years-old.

“Swinging the bat and throwing the ball has always been fun for me!”

Pitcher and outfielder Jacob Garcia will attend Cal State University, Stanislaus and third-baseman Brandon Godoy will attend Cal Poly University, Pomona.

Mia Dow, the most decorated wrestler at Walnut High, took 4th place during the CIF State Championships in February. She will be playing her sport at MacMurray College in Jackson, Illinois next year.

Track and field sprinter Malia Avila committed to attend Concordia University.

“This school had everything I was looking for!” said the star athlete who competed in the 300-meter hurdles at CIF State Championships.

Wal-Mart Supercenter Being Built in Eastvale

Photo courtesy: Google Images Eastvale municipality leaders hvae approved development of Wal-Mart.

Eastvale municipality leaders have approved the development of a Walmart supercenter.

By Marissa Mitchell

Eastvale – A new Wal-Mart Supercenter will be built in the city of Eastvale, as ratified by city council members. The Supercenter at large will feature Walmart and other stores, bearing the name “Eastvale Crossings”

On April 26, the project was unanimously approved for building. It will be built on the southeast corner of Limonite and Archibald. In the center covering over 25 acres, the Walmart itself will be approximately 192,000 square feet and include a gas station. Subsequent developments on other parcels of land will be subject to city and Planning Commission review, according to City Manager Michele Nissen.

Per city planning documents, the project will also feature a drive-through pharmacy for Eastvale residents. Time frame for construction, however, has yet to be determined.

Walmart spokeswoman Delia Garcia stated by phone, “The approval is the first step. We’re very early in the process here.”

Photo courtesy: Google Images
Eastvale municipality leaders hvae approved development of Wal-Mart.

The planning project is projected to serve not just Eastvale but also the surrounding communities, including Ontario, Chino, Norco, and Jurupa Valley, said officials.

Garcia added, “We know that many of our customers are already shopping at other Wal-Marts in Chino and Corona, and this will be a convenience to our Eastvale customers, but we’ll also serve a broader area.”

This novel Wal-Mart supercenter is expected to garner around $375,000 a year in sales tax revenue for the city, Nissen stated, which will help the city overall in many ways. In general, average sales tax revenue for any Wal-Mart supercenter can range from $250,000 to $900,000 per year, so the estimate is conservative.

“Those dollars go straight into the city’s general fund,” Nissen declared. “Ultimately, it’s up to the City Council and myself to decide how those dollars are spent, but it’s based on the needs of the community.” And, as a rapidly growing community, the needs are many.

Moreover, the new center is anticipated to help ease a challenge for the city, said Brandon Plott:   “For the last six years, we’ve been able to maintain a solvent budget, but it’s been very challenging. The topic of gaining more sales tax revenue comes up and Wal-Mart brings that to the city.”

More revenue generated leads in turn to greater benefits of the community at large. Simply the project in and of itself is expected to create approximately 100 construction jobs and around 300 retail jobs for the city.

The Wal-Mart will include a full grocery department, giving citizens choices and flexibility in food shopping in and around the marketplace of Eastvale.

Plott stated, “It does bring a level of service to the city that the residents want. People can shop for something at a lower price and it brings a level of competition to the city, which is good for our local economy. I think people want to pay lower prices for products.”

 

BOS Renews $30,000 Reward For Couples Murders

Photo courtesy: LASD

By Michael Armijo

Diamond Bar – Board of Supervisor (BOS) Janice Hahn’s announcement March 18 for a reward of $20,000 for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the person(s) responsible for a Diamond Bar couple’s murder was renewed this week as the board approved the motion. In addition, the City of Diamond Bar approved an additional $10,000 reward, totaling $30,000 in reward money. The couple was stabbed to death in their home in Diamond Bar last October.

On October 20, 2016, a family friend visited the home of a senior couple, in the 3300 block of Bent Twig Lane, Diamond Bar, to check on them. The couples’ family, who were unable to reach them, asked the friend to check on the couple.
The husband and wife team, who operated a studio out of their home and taught art lessons were discovered deceased in their home.

Cheng Long Wang, 60, and Mei Chu Chung, 57, were pronounced dead at the scene from multiple stab wounds.
The $20,000 reward was approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and the city of Diamond Bar approved a $10,000 reward thereafter. The BOS first approval was to expire May 14, but is now extended for 3 more months.

According to a press release issued by the LA County Sheriff’s Department, both Cheng Long Wang, known as David, and Mei Chu Chung, known as Marian, emigrated from Taiwan in the year 2000.

“They were creative and well-respected within their community, and in an instant, the home which this gentle couple shared with others as a place to learn and be creative was turned into a crime scene where they were brutally attacked, stabbed to death and likely robbed,” the statement read.
At a press conference held at the Hall of Justice, the Homicide Bureau unit commander, Captain Steve Katz, introduced one of the couple’s children, Dr. Gary Wang.  Dr. Wang explained how difficult the loss of his parents has been –not just for him and his sister, but for his 4-year-old daughter.  He revealed how his little girl missed video chats with grandma and cried at night for her grandparents; and relayed how he had to put their death in terms she could understand by explaining that grandma and grandpa “went to heaven.”
Dr. Wang made an emotional plea to the public, asking them to provide any information which may help solve the murder of his parents, for their justice, the release said.
“This couple were married for 30 years and were the classic example of an American success story,” Sheriff McDonald said.  He recognized the retired couple for having raised a successful family, as evidenced by their children who both became doctors, and for having dedicated time to their community by offering art lessons in their home.
Supervisor Janice Hahn, 4th District, thanked Sheriff McDonnell, Captain Katz and the Homicide Bureau detectives for their hard work on this investigation.  In an effort to encourage witnesses to step forward, she announced a monetary reward approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.  The reward of $20,000 was offered in exchange for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the couple’s murder.
Captain Katz presented a second monetary reward which was approved by the city of Diamond Bar for $10,000, offered in addition to the Board of Supervisors’ reward offer.
If you have any information about this case, please call the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Detectives Margarita Barron or Dameron Peyton at (323) 890-5500.

DB Woman Pinned By Car

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – A Diamond Bar woman was sent to the hospital after she was pinned by a car in at her home in Diamond Bar.

While teaching her teenage son to drive, the woman got of the car while inside the garage and walked in front of the car. The teenager, her son, accidentally lunged forward in the car, pinning her between the garage wall and the automobile.

She was hospitalized after firefighters removed her from the accident in a residential neighborhood late Thursday, officials said. The accident took place around 9 p.m. in the 1100 block of Cleghorn Drive , LA County Sheriff’s department spokesman Lt. David Buckner said.

The mother  suffered injuries that possibly included broken ribs, but were not believed to be life-threatening, Buckner said.

Gold Ribbon Schools

Diamond Bar, Walnut High Win State’s Highest Academic Honor

 By Kelli Gile

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
The Diamond Bar High Wellness Center regularly invites therapy dogs on campus to help students de-stress. On April 27, King, a gentle 100-lb English Labrador visits students in classrooms.

WALNUT, CA–Diamond Bar and Walnut high schools have been recognized as 2017 California Gold Ribbon Schools. State Superintendent of Public Education Tom Torlakson announced last week that 275 middle and high schools across the state received this year’s honor, out of nearly 500 hopefuls that applied. These schools represent examples of excellent teaching, learning, and collaborating, as well as highly successful school climate efforts.

 

Schools are commended for improvement in Common Core-based math and English language-arts test scores. They also were evaluated on their implementation of programs and curriculum that prepare students for college and beyond. Schools applied for the award based on a signature program that can be replicated by other schools.

 

Diamond Bar High submitted for consideration the school’s Wellness Center and Social Emotional Learning (SEL) programs. The Wellness Center opened its doors in January 2016 to offer an additional layer of support services and personal management strategies. Last fall, it was awarded the national Inspired

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
The Diamond Bar High Wellness Center regularly invites therapy dogs on campus to help students de-stress. On April 27, King, a gentle 100-lb English Labrador visits students in classrooms.

Changemaker Award by Yale University and Facebook for pioneering efforts to provide social emotional support, educational resources and events for students. “Diamond Bar High is the only high school in the state staffed by student wellness consultants who are trained in peer counseling and assisting student’s social and emotional needs for the entire school day. We are very proud of the support we are offering our students,” said DBHS Principal Reuben Jones.

 

Walnut High highlighted its IB Career-Related Program (IBCP)/Project Lead the Way (PLTW) Biomedical Science. Since launching in 2013, Walnut High has remained the only school in the state to offer both IBCP with the PLTW Biomedical Sciences program as its career-related component. On April 4, 37 seniors received white coats and medallions marking the completion of the rigorous three-year program.  “We as a school community work hard each and every day to ensure that all of our programs are meeting the needs of all students. This prestigious award helps us remember that our collective efforts are appreciated by people within and outside of our community,” said WHS Principal Brandon Dade.

 

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
The Diamond Bar High Wellness Center regularly invites therapy dogs on campus to help students de-stress. On April 27, King, a gentle 100-lb English Labrador visits students in classrooms.

The Gold Ribbon award replaces the California Distinguished Schools Program, which is on hiatus while that state eases into new testing and accountability systems.  Schools will be recognized on May 15. Congratulations to the dedicated, creative, and talented staff, and the supportive school communities at Diamond Bar and Walnut high schools!

 

Safety Tips From LASD

By Captain Alfred Reyes

Walnut – As your Walnut Diamond Bar Sheriff Captain, I would like to encourage you to be proactive in your community as honorary “volunteers” in helping our community remain safe. We would like to promote a few safety tips you should find helpful:

1.      Don’t become a victim of mail theft.  Remove your mail from your mailbox promptly after delivery.  Enroll in the USPS Informed Delivery Program

2.      Keep your car doors locked and do not leave personal items such as back packs, laptop cases, and electronic devices in plain view. 

3.      Report suspicious vehicle and people who may be casing an area to commit a crime. 

4.      If you are considering installing a burglar alarm, be sure to place a sensor on upstairs bedroom sliding glass doors. 

5.      If you own a late 1990’s to early 2000 Honda or Toyota, consider installing an anti-theft device such as an audible alarm, kill switch or steering wheel lock.

6.      Utilize the vacation check program.  (Residence can request patrol checks of their property while on vacation).

7.      Get involved, join a Neighborhood Watch Program.         

These are simple tips that could help you avoid being a victim of a senseless and random crime. Keep an eye out for anything or anyone that may be an obvious sign of a crime or safety issue. Thanks for making this such a great community.

4 Chino Residents, 1 CH Resident Arrested For Attempted Burglary

By Michael Armijo

Chino Hills – Five area residents were arrested this week by Chino Hills Police when they were caught attempting to burglarize a home and apprehended at gunpoint.

Garret Rogers, 19, Ruben Medivil, 19, and Roberto Alonso Salmon, 18, all of Chino, Joaquin Leonardo Salmon Garcia, 20 from Chino Hills, and a 17 year-old male juvenile from Chino were arrested Monday May 1st, around 1 pm in the afternoon, after a homeowner caught them inside his residence. Three suspects were apprehended at the scene while two others ran away but were subsequently caught a short distance away by Chino Hills PD.

On Monday, May 1, 2017 at 1:05 p.m. the Zhang family was inside their home on the 13000 block of Gemstone Court when they heard noises on the upstairs balcony of their home. The suspects then attempted to enter the home through an upstairs door. Home owner Yan Zhang retrieved a handgun and confronted the suspects. Zhang held the suspects at gunpoint while a neighbor called 911, and his wife kept the children safe.
Two of the suspects fled, but were captured nearby when Deputy Eileen Smith arrived on scene. Many of the surrounding neighbors assisted by providing information to the responding deputies. All five suspects were taken into custody. Four of the suspects were booked into the West Valley Detention Center, and the juvenile suspect was cited and released to his parents.
 The family spoke little English. Their neighbor told CBS2’s Crystal Cruz what happened Monday afternoon when the family heard unwanted guests in their back yard.

“They came home from supermarket, and they noticed somebody jump the fence and try to pry in. And he panicked. He had a gun. So he pulled out and do a warning shot,” neighbor Tony Tran said to CBS2 reporter Crystal Cruz.

Neighbors wondered why the burglars picked a home with bars on the windows and described as Fort Knox of the cul-de-sac.

“If that’s what he felt he needed to do, that’s what he needed to do. Because you don’t know. You walk in and someone’s in your house. You don’t know if they’re going to kill you.” neighbor Lapedtra Singleton said to the CBS2 reporter Crystal Cruz.

Last month, at another house nearby, the homeowner was sleeping when he said two people with their faces covered tried unsuccessfully to break into his place through the window and left in a white car, CBS2 Cruz reported.

Anyone with additional information reference this incident is urged to call the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. And refer to case #221701495