Category Archives: News By City

Eastvale: Cluster Mailbox Theft/Security FAQ

City of Eastvale

Who is responsible for our mailboxes and cluster mailboxes?

The mailboxes and cluster mailboxes used throughout the city are federal property under the United States Postal Service (USPS). They are controlled by the United States Postal Service, a branch of the federal government.

What should I do if my mailbox is broken into?

If you see a crime in progress or you suspect a mailbox break in is occurring, please call the Eastvale Police Department (Riverside County Sheriff’s Department), 911 emergency line. If the crime has already occurred please call the Eastvale Police Non-Emergency line at (951) 776-1099 AND the Postal Inspectors Office by calling (877) 876-2455 or visiting https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov to alert them of the break-in. It may also be helpful for you to alert your neighbors and your Home Owners Association (where applicable).

Why report mailbox break-ins?

Reporting mailbox break-ins, theft, or vandalism is incredibly important for prevention of future damage. The reporting to the Eastvale Police Department (Riverside County Sheriff’s Department) is critical for crime data, statistics and prevention.  Damage to mailboxes or cluster mailboxes may delay mail delivery by the USPS.  It may be helpful to have your neighbors and your Home Owners Association report break-ins as well.

Who is responsible for the mailboxes being repaired?

For developments that have a Home Owners Association (HOA) that includes coverage of the cluster mailboxes, the HOA will be the responsible party. For developments that pre-date the City’s incorporation in October 2010 and those that do not have a HOA that is responsible for the cluster mailboxes, the maintenance and repairs fall on the property owner whose mailbox is located on the respective cluster.  The repairs must be coordinated and paid for by the responsible HOA or in collaboration with all the homeowners whose mailbox is located on the respective cluster.  Per the USPS, contacting the US Postal Service, (800) 275-8777, prior to modifying or installing any mailbox equipment is mandatory.

The US Postal Service neither recommends nor endorses any particular equipment vendor.

How can I help?

The Postal Inspectors Office is asking people not to confront criminals directly as they may be dangerous. Rather, they are asking folks to try and get any form of identification (such as a license plate, vehicle description, photograph, or video footage) and report it to the Eastvale Police Department (951-776-1099) and to the Postal Inspector at (877-876-2455) as soon as possible. If the crime is in progress, call 911.

Citizens are encouraged to talk to neighbors and get involved or start a neighborhood watch program. Think strategically and talk to the neighbors in close proximity to the mailboxes who may be home during the day, willing to assist with video surveillance monitoring, or assist with keeping the area well lighted and clear of brush. If an HOA is applicable, ask them to help with preventative measures around the mailboxes.

Please click here for FAQ Sheet: http://www.eastvaleca.gov/home/showdocument?id=5129

Walnut City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – The July 13 Walnut Council meeting began with the recognition of the Mayor’s Advisory Committee. The Council and outgoing Mayor Bob Pacheco thanked the committee for their hard work and everything they gave back to the City. The Council then proclaimed July as Parks and Recreation month, commending the Parks and Recreation Commission for keeping the City beautiful and pleasant for everyone. Outgoing Mayor Pacheco then received several commendations for the work he accomplished this last year, including from Congressman Ed Royce, Senator Bob Huff, Assemblywoman Chang, and more. As his last act as mayor, Pacheco commented on all the progress the City made in the past year, praising City employees, Council members, and Walnut residents for all working together to make Walnut a beautiful community for people to live in.

The Council was then reorganized. Eric Ching was appointed as the new mayor, and was sworn in by his wife of thirty years. Although Mary Su and Nancy Tragarz were both nominated as mayor pro tem, Nancy Tragarz refused the position and Mary Su remained mayor pro tem.

The reorganized Council approved the minutes of the June 22 City Council meeting and opened the public hearing on an ordinance prohibiting parking on various city streets in the vicinity of Mt. SAC. The ordinance was approved, although Councilmember Su pointed out that in most cases, such an ordinance is only a temporary solution, as students respond to such measures by simply parking in other streets. Su called for a meeting with Mt. SAC and an opportunity to teach the students directly about alternative parking areas and residential areas which should be avoided.

The Council then held the second public hearing for the appeal of a conditional use permit for Lot 269. Although opinions varied wildly between residents, the Council approved the appeal on the condition that a pocket park should be added to the tract map, satisfying both ends of the spectrum of opinions brought to the Council. The Council also approved all items on the consent calendar, including a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $1,169,489.20; a public improvements and release of improvement bond for tract 72827; and a continuance for the appeal of the Planning Commission denial to construct over-height fences in the front yards of four homes on Sunset Circle. The Council agreed that more discussion was necessary in the case of the over-height fence construction. The owners wanted a fence for added safety in response to the new crime wave that appeared to have hit Walnut. While the Council was sympathetic to the homeowners’ concerns, the effect of the City-wide fences was important to consider.

Following individual reports and comments, the Council adjourned to July 27 at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Rd.

JCSD Dances to help Eastvale Resident get her Dancing Legs!

Photo courtsy Face Book @Daretodancechallenge

Photo courtesy Face Book @Daretodancechallenge

JCSD

Eastvale, CA –The Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) Parks and Recreation Department is dancing to help 3 year old Finley Smallwood raise money and awareness about Cerebral Palsy.

Beautiful Finley was born 9 weeks premature and suffers from Cerebral Palsy. She loves to dance, but can’t move without help. The Smallwoods received recent news that Finley is a great candidate for selective dorsal rhizotomy. The procedure may help her walk and even dance on her own someday; however, the procedure is not covered under their medical insurance. That is where the #DareToDanceChallenge was born.

To help raise awareness for Cerebral Palsy and help Finley with the cost of surgery, JCSD invites everyone to participate in the Dare to Dance Challenge this Friday (July 29) during the 65th Street LIVE Concert in the Park event held at Harada Heritage Park.

All concert guests will be encouraged to dance with Finley and show support for her cause. The event will be filmed, posted on social media, and will include a dare for other nearby agencies to dance too! If they don’t accept the challenge within 24 hours they must donate $20 to www.doyoudaretodance.com, or better yet, everyone can Dance AND Donate!

You can help a little girl get her miracle — to one day dance and walk on her own.

#daretodancechallenge

Now it’s YOUR turn! We Dare YOU Dare to Dance!

If you would like to learn more about Finley’s journey and how you can help, please visitwww.doyoudaretodance.com

About 65th Street LIVE

The annual summer concert series presented by Jurupa Community Services District’s (JCSD) Parks and Recreation Department just got even better!  This yearly summer concert series tradition, now entering its eighth year, is being launched as 65th Street Live!  In addition to live music performed by local bands at Harada Heritage Park in Eastvale, there will be added fun to make your family’s summer even more memorable.

Put on your dancing shoes, bring the entire family, your friends, and neighbors, and get ready to celebrate the season with the following bands:

Photo courtesy Instagram@ fifiandmo

Photo courtesy Instagram@ fifiandmo

Time: All concert performances are from 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Harada Heritage Park, 13099 65th Street, Eastvale
Cost: Concert is free and wristbands for the Fun Zone are $5.00
Parking: Additional parking available on 68th Street
What to Bring: Lawn chairs, picnic blankets, food, etc.
Vendors: Vendors will be selling a variety of food and drinks
Questions?: Visit www.parks.jcsd.us or call (951) 727-3524

Connect with us on Social Media @JCSDParks. Share your memories this summer using #65thStreetLIVE or #JCSD2016. If you have any questions, please call the JCSD Parks and Recreation Department at (951) 727-3524 or visit our website at www.parks.jcsd.us.

DB Coyote Sightings

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar– In the last few weeks, there have been numerous reports of coyote sightings.

One resident reported that, “Coyote sighting tonight behind my backyard nearby by Ronald Reagan Park and the fire station. My mom called me to tell me she was outside with our pug when she spotted out of the corner of her eye a coyote. She immediately grabbed our pug and ran inside. Luckily, we always go outside with our dogs for this reason. Keep an eye on your pets diamond bar!”

Another report was made by a resident saying, “Coyote alert…..behind the homes of Armitos between Pikes and Goldpoint. It stood behind the fence staring at my dog. I scared it off….and it ran toward the hillside behind the homes. Watch your fur babies.”

Not only were there report of coyotes, a Diamond Bar resident reports of a bobcat sighting while at home saying, “I sat quietly reading under our patio Monday evening when I saw something move in the corner of my eye and to my amazement it was a bobcat about to sneak past me to get to our back hill garden. To my surprise the bobcat stopped about ten feet from me considering its option and then as I stood up it turned, it jumped up on the wall and went on its way to our garden where it stayed for at least fifteen minutes, even with my wife and I stalking it!”

Diamond Bar residents have given some advice saying, “just wanted to warn anyone who has a very small dog: do not to leave it in your garden alone especially at dusk as not only do you have to watch out for coyotes but I have noticed that the bobcats are also around. They normally only feed on rats, mice and rabbits but a large bobcat could potentially kill a very small dog.”

The City of Diamond Bar also provided the following tips:

If coyote sightings are common in your neighborhood or place of recreation, the City recommends the following tips to help deter them for inhabiting private properties or having conflicts with small pets.

Make your property less hospitable for wild animals by removing shelter, water and food sources:

  • Thin ground level shrubbery that can serve as a den or hiding place, take down and store bird feeders, and promptly gather low-hanging fruit and collect any fallen pieces.
  • Teach your children to learn how to identify coyote and know what to do if they come in contact with one.
  • Keep a close watch on small pets, feed them indoors, supervise them while they are outdoors, and always walk dogs on a leash.
  • Store refuse containers in your garage or another secure area until collection day.
  • Also of great importance is that you and your neighbors do not intentionally feed or attempt to tame coyotes as this causes them to lose their innate fear of humans, thereby increasing the potential for encounters and conflicts with people and pets.

In the event you encounter an aggressive or fearless coyote, the Department of Fish and Wildlife suggest you take the following steps:

  • Make sure you are standing up and pick up any small pets or young children who may be with you.
  • Face the coyote and try to frighten it away by shouting loudly and waving your arms above your head to appear larger and menacing; do not stop until it has left. If it does not leave or starts walking toward you, throw rocks, sticks or other objects in its direction.
  • Retreat by walking backward so that you do not turn your back on the coyote.

Report incidents of aggressive coyotes or conflicts to City Hall by calling 909.839.7010 or visitingwww.diamondbarca.gov/wildanimal.

 

 

Don Lugo Earned A Six-Year Accreditation

CVUSD  Don-Lugo-WEB

Chino – This spring, Don Lugo High received a six-year accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the longest accreditation granted by the organization to an educational institution.

The WASC accreditation process aids institutions in developing and sustaining effective educational programs and assures the educational community, the general public, and other organizations that an accredited institution has met high standards of quality and effectiveness.

In its more than 350-page WASC Self-Study Report, Don Lugo administrators and teachers listed a variety of data, citing its strengths, weaknesses, improvements, and goals for the future.

According to the document’s writers, the Chino school has undergone many significant changes in the last six years, and particularly in the last three years.

The school has a new principal and all three new assistant principals. Led by the administrative team, the school has implemented new attendance protocols, new behavior management programs, and new curriculum in English and math, while also making notable changes in social science, career and technical subjects, language, and arts instruction.

Don Lugo has added new Academics and Pathways to its course catalog and expanded its enrollment in honors and Advanced Placement courses.

In the summer of 2015, approximately 60 teachers (85% of the instructional staff) attended three days of training in the Capturing Kids’ Hearts program, a comprehensive philosophy and set of protocols to ensure a culture in which all students feel safe, supported, and where instructional and learning time is optimized. Teachers taking the training use strategies to build better relationships with students, such as getting them to learn each other’s names, sharing something good at the start of class, and creating social norms. The teachers were trained to ask four questions before sending students out on a referral: What are you doing? What are you supposed to be doing? Are you doing it? What are you going to do about that?

Many Don Lugo teachers have said they have noticed an improved atmosphere at the school since the Capturing Kids’ Hearts program was implemented. Plans are in place to provide the remaining staff with training.

Don Lugo now has a second Intervention Specialist for Math who is available to assist teachers with quality instructional strategies for rigor, the formative process, checking for understanding, providing formal and informal feedback, incorporating technology, and differentiation. The Intervention Specialist’s goal is to facilitate self-reflection and growth in teachers and provide instructional support for the new Common Core State Standards in math.

The Chino school’s administrators, teachers and students have worked diligently to increase Don Lugo’s Honors and Advanced Placement program. Don Lugo added AP Psychology and AP Economics to its course offerings. Site administrators and teachers have removed the more stringent prerequisites for admittance into AP courses as a way to ensure that all students have access to those classes. AP courses are publicized to all students during the spring prior to enrollment, and at AP Student and Parent Information Nights. Don Lugo’s AP Club holds fundraisers to help students pay for exams. All AP instructors are trained. Seventy-five percent of Don Lugo’s AP teachers attended the 2015 Summer AP By the Sea Institute in San Diego and/or Pre-AP trainings at the University of California, Riverside.

While the school’s AP program enrollment dropped from 245 in the 2012/2013 school year to 214 in 2013/2014 and 192 in 2014/2015, renewed efforts by the faculty and students have resulted in 320 students (about 20% of the student population) enrolling in AP courses in the 2015/2016 school year.

Two pilot programs are underway at Don Lugo. The school had adopted a multi-tiered system of support for positive behavior and have hired an Intervention Counselor to create the program. Also, four special education teachers are participating in the California Department of Education’s transitional project. In that project, teachers are taught how to successfully develop, implement, and monitor college and career awareness goals in the special education students’ Individual Education Plans (IEPs).

Don Lugo’s academies include the Lugo Engineering and Design (LEAD) Academy; Sports Management Academy; and Technology, Environment, Animal Medicine, Agriscience, and Agribusiness (TEAM A & A) Academy. It recently added an equestrian component and service animal program to its Agricultural department. Under the service animal program, students are raising puppies for the Guide Dogs for the Blind organization.

 

Theft Suspect Sought

Staff Reports   

Chino PD is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the theft suspect pictured above.

Photo courtesy: City of Chino
Chino PD is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the theft suspect pictured above.

Chino – The Chino Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a vehicle theft suspect after a pursuit took place in Chino last week.

On Monday, July 11, at 7:49 a.m., a Chino Police Officer attempted to stop a blue Sand Rail, off-road vehicle that was driving recklessly near the intersection of Bickmore and Euclid Avenue in Chino. It was later learned that the vehicle was previously stolen from the City of Norco.

The driver fled at high speeds in the off-road vehicle and refused to stop. A pursuit began for several minutes until it was cancelled due to safety concerns. The vehicle then became disabled in the 15500 block of El Prado Road, where the driver fled on foot into the Chino Creek Basin, according to the City of Chino.

Chino Officers and Chino Hills Deputies, along with an Ontario Police Department helicopter, searched for the suspect for several hours but they were unable to locate him.

The suspect was identified as a Hispanic adult male who is approximately 25-30 years old. Surveillance camera images of the suspect were released and the Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in locating or identifying the suspect.

Anyone who can help locate or identify this suspect can contact Officer Thomas at (909) 334-3103 or mthomas@chinopd.org.

Chino’s Hidden Treasure: Clark’s Nutrition

Staff Reports   

Chino – Have you ever heard of Clark’s Nutrition? Imagine a Whole Foods, Sprouts, Trader Joes, and Nutrishop all under one roof… in your back yard, Chino! Clark’s Nutrition & Natural Foods Market is a rare find in the natural foods industry. If you haven’t discovered this amazing store yet, it is worth your time to investigate.

Marketing Director, Mike Barnett says, “Often people will tell us that they’ve heard of Clarks and they think it’s just another supplement shop, but once they walk inside our Chino store, they get what all the fuss is about.”

Clark’s stores not only have a huge selection of supplements (their Chino location has one of the largest supplement sections in the entire country), but they have a wide variety of organic grocery items, complete with gluten-free sections,  including Vegan and Vegetarian options, as well as a large selection of organic produce.

Want to get a free make-over with natural, cruelty-free make-up too? No problem, Clark’s has a make-up section that looks like something you’d see at a MAC make-up counter. Clark’s is the only retail partner with actress, Suzanne Somers, to offer her organic cosmetics and skin care line, SUZANNE Organics.

Clark’s is a pioneer in the health food world. They opened the doors of their first location in Riverside in 1972, long before health food became vogue. Today there are stores in Riverside, Loma Linda, Rancho Mirage and now Chino.

But have you ever been to a “health foods” store before and felt overwhelmed or weren’t sure where to start? Have you felt the opposite, like you knew more than the employee? Have no fear, Clark’s knows how refreshing it is to speak with health food store employees that know their stuff and are willing to share their knowledge.

The Clark’s slogan is, “Live better, we can help.”  How does Clark’s actually help people you ask? Clark’s has made their business thrive on helping to educate people about their health. Starkie Sowers, the Director of Education at Clarks says, “We have Nutritional Consultants at Clarks. These employees go through our 5 level in-house training program. It takes about 3 ½ years to get to a Level 5 at Clarks.” Clark’s takes education about health seriously. These knowledgeable (non-commission) Nutritional Consultants are one of the keys to why people love Clarks so much.

Clark’s is a great find for anyone looking to improve their health. They have competitive pricing, knowledgeable staff, a great product selection and a beautiful Chino location close to home.

Discover this Chino treasure located at 12835 Mountain Ave in Chino.

CH Allows Watering 3-Times Per Week

Staff Reports

Chino Hills- A meeting that was held on July 12 recommended that the Chino Hills City Council review a recommendation to adopt an urgency Water conservation Ordinance that would allow watering to move to three-times per week instead of the two-times per week.

June has been a record high with the heat, so concerns about distressed and dying trees was fast tracked for a special meeting in the City Council Chambers at the City Hall.

On July 13, Chino Hills City Council released that they took action on an Urgency Water Conservation Ordinance and declared a Stage II Moderate Conservation Alert that went into effect immediately. This is now allowing the community to use water for outdoor irrigation three-times per week.

The City of Chino Hills released the following restrictions:

The Stage II Moderate Conservation Alert that went into effect immediately with last night’s Council action limits outdoor irrigation to 3 days per week. Residential addresses ending in an even number may use water: Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays (except 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.). Residential addresses ending in an odd number may use water: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays (except 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.). Non-residential addresses may use water: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (except 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.). All irrigation shall not exceed fifteen (15) minutes per watering-station, except for drip or micro-spray irrigation systems which shall not exceed 30 minutes per station.

The Stage II Moderate Conservation Alert also imposes the following restrictions:

  • Prohibits outdoor watering of landscaping between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
  • Prohibits application of water to hard surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, and parking areas etc. or irrigation causing runoff, etc.
  • Requires the repair of leaks within 48 hours.
  • Prohibits use of water hose without a shutoff valve.
  • Prohibits irrigating outdoor landscape after measure rain (1/10” or more within a 48 hour period)
  • Limits pool-filling to the above specified irrigation days.
  • Decorative water fountains at commercial properties may only be operated if the water is part of a re-circulating system.
  • Vehicles, trailers, boats, and livestock can be washed with a hand-held hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle.
  • Restaurants may not serve water unless the customer request water.
  • Water may not run off or leak from landscaped areas to streets, sidewalks, or other paved areas due to incorrectly directed or maintained sprinklers or over watering.
  • Fire hydrants may only be used for firefighting. *

*An exception may be made for construction use through a City-designated meter when recycled water is not available.

City of Chino Hills reminds everyone that the new Ordinance reinforces the need to continue to conserve water with the current drought conditions, and will continue to encourage the replacement of turf with drought tolerant vegetation; improve the water system to limit failures; and increase the use of recycled water as well as enforce water restrictions.

For additional information, you may view the Water Conservation Ordinance on the City website at: www.chinohills.org/waterconservationordinance.org

Community Robotics Workshop At Mt. SAC

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – The Mt. San Antonio College STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Center and the college’s Robotics Team will host a Robotics Workshop for ages 8 and up on Saturday, July 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Science Laboratory Building, building 60, room 1506. This event is free and open to the public.

“Robots are fun, and they’re fun to build,” said Mt. SAC Physics Professor and Robotics Team advisor Daniel Anderson. “No prior experience necessary.”

Workshop participants will learn about and help Robotics Team members build robots as well as learn about a robotics competition, building components, and design.

“This workshop is designed to take the fear out of engineering and technical things,” said Anderson.

This year, Mt. SAC’s Robotics Team qualified to compete at the VEX International World Competition in Kentucky. The competition hosts teams from around the world. Mt. SAC was one of only four community colleges in the nation at the competition.

“The field of robotics is doubling every year as interest in robots grows,” said Anderson.

Minor children participating in the workshop must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Established a year ago with its first cohort group of students, the STEM Center fosters student interest in science and provides academic support, enrichment activities, teaching opportunities, and research experience.

For more information on this event, call the Mt. SAC STEM Center at (909) 274-4224.

 

 

Walnut Creates General Plan

City of Walnut
Walnut – For the first time in over 30 years, the City of Walnut has initiated a program to comprehensively plan its future. Every city in California is required to maintain a long-term comprehensive plan to guide physical growth and community preservation. This plan, called a General Plan, provides the framework for decisions regarding land use, traffic, parks and open space, use of community resources and preservation. Even a city like Walnut—where very little vacant land remains and the road system and park facilities are well established—benefits from planning for its future.
Through the process of updating the 1978 General Plan, the Community will have the opportunity to refine the vision and modern-day goals for Walnut that will help influence almost every action City decision-makers take moving forward. With over 95 percent of Walnut already developed with residential neighborhoods, shopping centers, protected hillsides, and parks and schools, City leaders envision that this General Plan update will work to preserve the City’s rural neighborhood character, continue to fund and provide quality municipal services, maintain a high quality of life, and manage environmental and natural resources. The General Plan update will set the direction for the next 25 years.
The new General Plan update will specifically address the following topics: 1) Land Use and Community Design, 2) Mobility, 3) Conservation, Open Space, and Recreation, 4) Community Facilities and Infrastructure, 5) Noise, and 6) Community Safety. This planning process will provide an opportunity for the community to set the City on a path that will maintain its quality of life, enhance economic opportunities, and continue Walnut’s reputation as a great place to live.
West Walnut Specific Plan
As part of the General Plan update, paralleled with the General Plan preparation, the City will prepare a Specific Plan for West Walnut. The West Walnut Specific Plan will guide future development in the area to benefit the City as a whole. Through the General Plan process, the City will work with the Community to define the future vision for West Walnut through focus on implementation and strategies for future improvements.
How Do I Participate?
To set the City on the right course, the General Plan update will require ongoing, active community participation. To reflect broad Community goals, the planning process will engage residents in creative ways, allowing residents to share ideas that reflect common community values and its hopes for the future. Community engagement efforts include community workshops, stakeholder interviews, intercept surveys, as well as City Council and Planning Commission study sessions.
General Plan Visioning Survey: We invite Walnut residents to take five minutes to fill out our Visioning Survey and tell us what you think makes Walnut great, or what may need improvement.
Please keep checking this web page for important upcoming Community engagement events and meetings and the opportunity to review the draft General Plan update and West Valley Boulevard Specific Plan documents.

 

An Unforgettable Week

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

 

One of the highlights of summer at our church is Vacation Bible School.  Many others churches in the community also offer VBS in June, July or August.

Vacation Bible School is a huge undertaking.  We will have over 100 volunteers serving in a variety of capacities to make this week possible.

The planning and preparations have been going on for months.  In fact, the theme and many ideas began last summer.

Vacation Bible School includes Bible lessons, crafts, recreation, and music.  The children love it and often remember it for many years to come.

One of the unforgettable benefits of VBS are the friendships that develop between the volunteers.  When you spend a week serving together, you get to know people on a much deeper level.  New friendships are formed that last a long time.

VBS touches multiple generations.  And, many of the current teen and adult volunteers attended VBS as children in the past.

This year one of my adult daughters and her four children will attend Vacation Bible School at our church.   Almost 30 years ago my daughter was an attendee and 20 years ago she was a volunteer!  Now she is bringing her own children to VBS.

Please accept this invitation to bring your children to Vacation Bible School this month. The dates are July 25-29th from 9 a.m. to noon.  VBS is open to children from Kindergarten through the fifth grade. There is a nominal registration fee.  You can find out all of the details and register online at our web site – efreedb.org.  Or you can call the church office at (909) 549-7604.

I hope you will enroll your in Vacation Bible School.  It really is an unforgettable week. You will be glad you did and they will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.  Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.  For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit Efreedb.org.

 

All The Great Books Abridged

Staff Reports

Chino Hills- On July 22 at 7 p.m., a 98-minute theatrical performance will be held and presented by The Chino Hills Arts Committee (chARTS), a branch of the Chino Hills Community Foundation, and the Bravo Company called All the Great Books Abridged.

This event will be held at the Chino Hills Community Center at 14250 Peyton Drive. It will be a one-night only event with ticket cost at $10 per person.

All the Great Books Abridged uses vaudeville and circus humor, giant props, wigs, costumes, musical numbers, and audience participation. This is a physical performance that’s fast and funny with a flair for current events. It also has a combination of all the books that kids never had a chance to read in school. It is starring three actors who also performed in The Complete Works of William Shakespeare Abridged who are known for their witty performances that are covering a wide range of books. The Shakespeare performance in Chino Hills had three sold-out shows.

You may also visit www.chinohills.org/chARTSEvents or call Chino Hills Recreation at (909) 364-2700 for more information.

 

Police Dog Attacks Man In Eastvale

Staff Reports  Dog Attack Picture

Eastvale – An Eastvale resident was attacked by a former Police dog earlier this month, which resulted in the man being sent to the hospital and the dog being stabbed.

On Sunday, July 3, a 20-year-old resident saw a male German shepherd wandering loose along Ruby Giant Court. According to an animal control officer’s report and based on statements from witnesses, the man felt sorry for the dog and brought it a bowl of water. A City of Eastvale news release reported that the dog drank the water and then placed both its front paws on the man’s chest.

The dog then attacked the man by taking a bite out of his left bicep area and dragging the victim into the street. The man screamed for help so relatives and friends came to try to make the dog release the victim. The relatives began punching and kicking the dog in hopes that it would let go. When the dog would not release the victim, some of the men grabbed steak knives from inside the home and stabbed the dog until it finally let go. The victim was transported to a Corona hospital with injuries to his arm, left leg and ankle.

According to the city news release, the homeowner of where the attack occurred, an uncle of the victim, told Riverside County Animal Services Officer Will Luna that he and the other rescuers had “no choice but to start stabbing the dog in order to get the dog to stop attacking.”

The German shepherd was lying on the lawn area in front of the Eastvale home when Police officials and Officer Luna arrived. The dog appeared to look lethargic, according to reports. However, when Officer Luna approached the injured dog, it immediately sat to attention despite its injuries.

Then, Officer Luna immediately used his control stick to put a loop around the dog’s head. The dog did not attack him or fight the control stick.

“I walked him to my truck and, with one command, the dog, despite its injuries, leaped into one of my truck compartments,” Officer Luna said in a report. The city news release states that this is when Luna knew he was dealing with a police dog. “That dog must have recognized me and uniform and as someone of authority,” Officer Luna said. “He didn’t show any aggression toward me at all.”

The dog was rushed to an emergency animal hospital, but its wounds were so severe that the clinic staff members had to euthanize it.

When a microchip was discovered on the dog, it was confirmed that the dog was a retired K9 officer for the Los Angeles County law enforcement agency.

For tips on how to avoid being bit by a dog, visit http://www.humanesociety.org/animals/dogs/tips/avoid_dog_bites.html.

Stolen Car And Property Returned

By Racine Guajardo

Chino Hills– On July 3, a residential burglary and grand theft auto was reported on the 15000 block of Aqueduct Lane in Chino Hills before 7 a.m.

The two suspects were later identified as Jose Sandoval, 33-year-old resident of Ontario and Christopher Ross, 22-year-old resident of Montclair. The Chino Hills Deputies were called to investigate the crime and found that the suspects had taken the victim’s purse that contained the keys to her vehicle.

The Pomona Police Department stopped a stolen vehicle around 2 p.m., which were the two suspects Sandoval and Ross. In the vehicle, suspects were in possession of the stolen property from the victim’s residence and were both arrested.

The Chino Hills Police Department says, “This is a good example of the cooperation between two law enforcement agencies who work together to solve and provide safety for citizens.”

If anyone has any additional information, please contact Deputy Joseph Patrick of the Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s Department at (909) 364-2000.

Below is a list of the most common ways auto theft occurs by http://www.stolen-property.com. Knowing this information can help defend you from being a victim.

  • Checking for an alarm system. Throughout the years, people have been conditioned to ignoring car alarms on the account a loud motorcycle or truck can set a car alarm off. People’s senses are so dulled to these car alarms, car alarms are often ignored while a car is being stolen. Prevention – instead of using a car alarm that just makes noise, use a car alarm that has a pager that alerts you if the alarm is activated. Another excellent prevention for auto theft is an ignition disabler. This makes it unable to start the car without pressing the hidden ignition disable switch.
  • Smash and grab. The most common form of auto theft; breaking a window, grabbing whatever it is the thief is after and running away. Prevention – always remove anything of value from plain sight. The majority of crime is “crime of opportunity.” Also, if you have a stereo with a removable face plate, bring it with you instead of leaving it under the seat or in the glove box.
  • Drive off in a car with the keys in it. Auto thieves case out ATM’s, movie rental store drop offs or other businesses with quick drop off or pick up. When a person walks away from a running car, they jump in and the car is stolen. Prevention – never leave your car running or with the keys in it for even a moment, that’s all it takes for an auto theft to occur.
  • Cutting a steering wheel. If you have a steering wheel locking device to deter from auto theft, a thief will actually cut the steering wheel to remove the anti-theft device. Prevention – invest in a “kill switch” that disables your vehicle from starting.
  • Disabling the alarm system. Professional auto thieves know how to disable a car alarm within 15 seconds if they know what kind it is. Prevention – when having an alarm system installed in your car, go to a professional alarm installer instead of a big retail chain store. Also, do not advertise with car alarm brand stickers. This tips professional thieves off when they know how to disable certain alarm makes.
  • Auto theft using back up or spare keys. Many stolen vehicles are done so with the actual car keys. Prevention – Don’t ever leave or “hide” any spare or back up key in the car or under the bumper in a magnetic key holder as thieves do look for these.
  • Stealing vehicles from big parking lots. Thieves often case out big parking lots such as that at sporting events or concerts. Prevention – park in secured, well lit parking lots when possible, especially ones with attendants on duty.

 

 

Dog License Fee Increase

City of Diamond Bar

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar dog owners are advised that new licensing fees went into effect as of July 1.

Annual license fees for altered (spayed or neutered) dogs went from $15 to $20, and from $35 to $50 for unaltered dogs. The fee paid by senior dog owners is the same for unaltered dogs, but only $10 if the pet is altered.

Revenue collected from pet licensing fees goes toward offsetting the cost of animal care and control services provided by the Inland Valley Human Society S.P.C.A (IVHS). The last time the dog licensing fee schedule was updated was in 2007.

In addition to staffing and maintaining a clean and compassionate environment for all the stray, injured and lost-and-found animals in its care, IVHS also:

  • Facilitates pet adoptions and reunites lost pets with their owners
  • Offers low-cost veterinary care services (spaying and neutering surgery, rabies shots and other vaccines for both dogs and cats, micro chipping, deworming, and nail clipping)
  • Responds to animal-related emergencies, including requests to pick up seriously sick or injured strays and bring them to veterinarians for emergency treatment, or collect dead strays and wildlife
  • Enforces animal control laws and investigates reports of animal abuse.

As a reminder, State law mandates that all dogs, four months of age and older, be vaccinated against rabies and maintain a current license.

For more information, call IVHS at 909.623.9777 (909.594.9858 for after-hours emergency services), visit its website at www.ivhsspca.org or stop by its facility, located at 500 Humane Way in Pomona, during its office hours of Monday through Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (open until 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday); kennel and adoption services start at 10:00 a.m.

 

July 2016 SGV News

2016-07-SGVNews-COVERSGV News covers Diamond Bar, Walnut, La Puente, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of the San Gabriel Valley; portions of the western Inland Empire; and northern Orange County. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: 2016-07-SGVNews-WEB

Pedestrian Dies In Chino

Staff Reports

Chino– On July 6, a pedestrian was walking on the 15400 block of Euclid Avenue when he was struck by a vehicle and declared deceased at the scene.

The male pedestrian was identified as 62-year-old, Lawrence Griffeth of Fullerton who was struck by the driver of a 2013 Nissan Sentra.

After investigation, the driver of the Nissan Sentra was identified as Erika Gutierrez, age 40 and resident of Corona. According to Chino PD, the pedestrian is believed to have been near the southbound lanes of traffic when the Sentra collided with Griffeth and fatally injured him. Gutierrez also had a passenger, but both were uninjured.

Once the Chino Valley Fire Paramedics arrived, they pronounced the pedestrian deceased at the scene.

Erika Gutierrez was also arrested at the scene for being under the influence of alcohol and booked at West Valley Detention Center. The exact cause of the collision is still under investigation.

While the Chino Police Department Traffic Unit was completing the investigation, Euclid Avenue was closed between Merrill Avenue and Kimball Avenue and remained closed for approximately 5 hours.

If you have any information regarding the case, you may contact Corporal Trosper in the Traffic Unit at strosper@chinopd.org or call (909) 334-3153.

Powerball Winners From Eastvale!

By Racine Guajardo

Eastvale– The holders of the winning Powerball ticket bought at a Chino Hills 7-11 have finally come forward!

Marvin and Mae Acosta, residents of Eastvale, have been announced as the third winners of the $1.6 billion Powerball lottery jackpot.

The original drawing was on January 13, and three tickets shared the jackpot. The other two have already claimed their money, one from Florida and one from Tennessee, but the third winner never came forward. Finally after 6 months of remaining a mystery, the Acosta’s came forward with their ticket before the 180 days of the draw date. Just like the other two winners, they opted for a one-time payment of $327.8 million before federal taxes.

The 7-Eleven store who sold the winning ticket is located at 492 Chino Hills Parkway and the store owner received $1 million.

California Lottery Director, Hugo Lopez, released a statement saying, “We finally know who our mystery winners are! It may have taken six months for them to come to one of our offices, but these winners did just what we tell all our winner to do- they read our Winner’s Handbook and then assembled a team of legal and financial advisers to help them make the most of this windfall and prepare them for their new life as lottery winners.”

The Acosta’s want to remain private as possible but have released the following statement, “We are thankful and blessed for the rare gift that has been placed in our care. We have engaged a team of advisers to educate and guide us through this process so that we can be good stewards of these new resources. While many decisions are still to be made, we have committed nearly all of this new resource to a Trust and to charities that are important to us. While we are very grateful for the wonderful wishes and encouragement we’ve received, it is not our intention to become public figures, and we ask for and appreciate privacy going forward. Thank you.”

A neighbor of the couple reported to ABC7 that the Acosta’s left last Friday without a word of where they were going or of their lottery winnings, but that is not confirmed.

Another neighbor, Emily Waithira, reported to Eastvale News that various news teams were outside the couple’s home on the morning of July 19. “[They’re] flooding our neighborhood!” said Emily. However, it is not confirmed if the Acosta’s were at the residence when the news teams were there. But Emily did say, “I am so happy for them!”

This article will be updated as more information is released.

Quality Comes First At Peterson Auto Repair

By K.P. Sander

Visit Peterson Auto Repair Center in the Big Valley Industrial Park, located at 3980-A Valley Boulevard, in Walnut. They can be reached at (909) 598-3881. Also see their ad on page 8 Weekly News.

Visit Peterson Auto Repair Center in the Big Valley Industrial Park, located at 3980-A Valley Boulevard, in Walnut. They can be reached at (909) 598-3881. Also see their ad on page 8 Weekly News.

 

Walnut – If you are looking for a local automotive repair center that performs quality work at reasonable prices – and delivers it all with excellent service – look no further than Peterson Auto Repair Center.

Peterson now houses a full mechanic shop to serve all your automotive needs.  They not only specialize in lube and oil changes, but also repair and maintain radiators, alternators, starters, brakes, clutches, shocks and struts, axles,  air conditioning, belts and hoses, and much, much more.

In business for over 15 years, owner Eric Peterson says, “For me, it’s all about providing quality automotive repair for the neighborhood.  I grew up in La Puente and Walnut, and we have so many good customers in this area.  We really appreciate the business and word of mouth referrals.”

Carhelp.com customers agree constantly giving Peterson high marks for quality workmanship and fair pricing.

Look for Peterson to add quality auto-body services to the business in the future.

Peterson Auto Repair is located in the Big Valley Industrial Park, at 3980-A Valley Boulevard in Walnut.  They are open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and can be reached at (909) 598-3881.  Mention their ad (see page 8 of the Weekly News) and get a discount on your brakes.

 

Off Duty Officer Struck On 60 Freeway In Chino

Staff Reports

An LAPD officer’s damaged motorcycle after crash on 60 freeway.

Photo courtesy: ktla5.com
An LAPD officer’s damaged motorcycle after crash on 60 freeway.

Chino– On July 13, a veteran LAPD Central Traffic Division Officer was on his way to work when he was struck by an SUV on the 60 freeway near the City of Chino.

The incident happened around 11 a.m. on the westbound freeway near Mountain Avenue and was airlifted with major injuries, according to CHP.

CHP officials also stated that the accident occurred when a SUV swerved into the carpool lane after the vehicle had failed to slow for stopping traffic, according to a witness.

According to LAPD Officer Tony Im, the condition of the officer is not known but expected to survive as he’s being treated at Loma Linda University Medical Center.

As investigators were at the scene, the 60 freeway closed and reopened back up around 2 p.m.

As drivers, we should always be aware of our surroundings and look out for motorcyclists in order to avoid this situation from happening again. If you are a motorcycle driver, below are some extra tips by http://www.motorcycles.about.com to help you stay visible to vehicle drivers.

The first way to avoid being hit is to stay out of the blind spots of other vehicles and give you enough room to react. Ways to do so include:

  • Making sure you can see the drivers of the cars around you; if you can see them (through eye contact or in their mirrors), chances are you’re in their line of sight… but never assume anything.
  • Creating a safety buffer around you, which means leaving enough distance ahead of you, and giving yourself space to maneuver away from trouble.
  • Avoid lingering in the blind spots created by the A-pillars and C-pillars of cars; those are the front 3/4 and rear 3/4 angle views out of the driver seat. Passing can be a dangerous maneuver, so be especially aware when overtaking a car or another rider.
  • If you’re riding with a group, be sure to leave a safe distance around you, and ride in a staggered formation for maximum visibility.

If you have any information in regards to this incident, please contact Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.