Category Archives: News By City

Chino Hills First Dog Park Opens

Photo Courtesy: City of Chino Hills Council Member Peter Rogers poses with his dog Chloe and Sparky, the fire dog, makes quick friends with Chloe.

Photo Courtesy: City of Chino Hills
Council Member Peter Rogers poses with his dog Chloe and Sparky, the fire dog, makes quick friends with Chloe.

By Monique Valadez

 

Chino Hills – The newest addition to Chino Hills’ is for the dogs. After more than a decade of discussion and planning, Vila Borba Park – the city’s first ever off-leash dog park – is now open to the public.

A fanfare of nearly 200 people and their furry four-legged friends gathered at the grand opening ceremony Dec. 18.

City officials and community members snipped the official red ribbon but it was Sparky the Fire Dog and McGruff the Crime-Fighting Dog that made the “leash cutting” ceremonies complete for all dogs in attendance.

The 5.6-acre park is located south of Pine Avenue west of Butterfield Ranch Road at 17001 Amadora Drive. It offers a fenced in space for both big and little dogs to roam freely. The park comes equipped with convenient dog waste stations and dog-appropriate water fountains. There is also a Tot Lot play area for children, picnic areas, exercise stations, and walking paths. The park will be open from 7 a.m. until dusk each day.

City officials say it’s free and open to all dog owners, though there are a few rules. Dogs must be at least four months old and non-aggressive, and owners are asked to keep a leash with them at the park – though dogs can be unleashed within the fence.
City officials say the park has been more than a decade-long project. The concept of a dog park in this city was first addressed in March 2000 by the Parks and Recreation Commission, through a community engagement process, according to the city’s staff report.

Developer’s Standard Pacific presented plans for its new 200-home project to the city council and offered to incorporate a dog park. Standard Pacific built the dog park at no cost to the City as part of their requirement to provide park space.

Residents of the city also rallied behind the cause by starting the nonprofit Dog Park for Chino Hills. The group’s next fundraising efforts are to install commemorative bricks in a section of the park.

Photo Courtesy: City of Chino Hills City officials, local legislators and community members join in the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Tot Lot children playground at Vila Borba Park.

Photo Courtesy: City of Chino Hills
City officials, local legislators and community members join in the ribbon cutting ceremony at the Tot Lot children playground at Vila Borba Park.

Start New Year, New You at Clark’s

Staff Reports

CHINO – When it comes to health and nutrition, one size does not fit all. Just ask your neighborhood’s health and nutrition market, Clark’s Nutrition and Natural Foods Market who strive to make lives better one customer at a time.
Clark’s equates success not with size but with integrity, responsibility and service.

“The cornerstone of Clark’s market position is to provide reliable scientific information for the consumer’s benefit in making educated and informed decisions resulting in vibrant health,” Clark’s website states.

Spanning three generations, Clark’s Nutrition and Natural Foods Markets was founded in 1972 in Riverside by the Clark family patriarch, Jim Clark, whose vision of healthy living grew into what is today a 60 billion-dollar industry.

Today’s, Jim’s grandchildren have taken over the reins of Clark’s Nutrition and Natural Foods Markets. Grandson Jeff Clark is president, his brother Bruce Clark is vice president of retail development, and their sister Tracy Clark is the director of finance.
Their newest location in Chino, 12835 Mountain Avenue (at corner of Mountain Avenue and Riverside Drive), boasts a large selection of organic, gluten free, grass-fed beef, vitamins and raw foods. They also carry an extensive collection of health and beauty production including, celebrity Suzanne Somers’ skin care and cosmetic line, “SUZANNE Organics.”

Clark’s puts an emphasis on connecting with the community through various in-store and local events.

With locations in Loma Linda, Riverside, Rancho Mirage, and now Chino, Clark’s Nutrition lives up to their motto, “Live Better …We Can Help!”They provide regular free lectures on various health related topics and make-up tutorials with professional make-up artists.

Customers will appreciate their knowledgeable and helpful staff. Clark’s employees undergo a comprehensive in-house training curriculum, and continuing their education “which is now accredited”.

So, for all your health and nutritional needs, look no further than Clark’s in Chino or any of their other I.E. locals. Clark’s is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. Stop by for yourselves and experience Clark’s great customer service, knowledgeable staff, and affordable pricing. Whatever your health goals, Clark’s can help! Visit www.clarksnutrition.com.

Kindness is Contagious

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

Complimentary cups of coffee, free lunches, and other fun surprises were recently gifted to people throughout the Inland Empire as part of a special project launched by VantagePoint Church on December 13. Everyone attending services that Sunday was invited to partner with the church in an effort to spread love and cheer during the holiday season.  Each individual was given a small red envelope containing $5, $10, or $20, and was asked to use the money to perform a random act of kindness.

The thought behind this project was that it would provide a ray of light in a world consumed by darkness. In the days that followed the distribution of the envelopes, stories of joy, hope, and excitement were shared.  Wonderful conversations, unexpected connections, and emotional encounters occurred because of these random acts.

While we expected the project to positively impact the community, the reality is that the givers were affected even more!  In fact, many went beyond the red envelopes and gave from their own pockets.  Some individuals have even announced plans to incorporate random acts into their daily lives.  The members of VantagePoint Church have discovered that kindness is contagious – and addicting!

As we enter this new year, newspaper headlines highlight the negativity that has infected society.  From terrorist attacks and senseless crimes to political turmoil and general discord, it can often seem as if there is nothing we can do to combat the darkness in the world.  But, there is.  Luke 6:35 says, “Love your enemies, do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return; and your reward will be great.”  After all, there is only one thing can truly defeat evil – the love of God!

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:00 a.m. and 11 a.m.

91 Project in Corona Prepares for El Niño Weather Conditions

By Eliza Echevarria Perez

CORONA – Construction crews working on the 91 Project in Corona are geared up for the arrival of El Niño storms.

During the first full week of El Niño conditions, the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) is increasing its Freeway Service Patrol (FSP) vehicles on the 91 and on Interstate 15 to help stranded motorists.

The specially marked FSP tow trucks roam local freeways, including the 91 Project construction limits in Corona, to assist stalled motorists at no charge by jump-starting batteries, providing fuel and fluids, changing flat tires and performing other minor repairs.

The trucks also can tow vehicles from the 91 and I-15 to CHP-approved locations.

The extra tow trucks will continue as needed later this week and during the 2016 El Niño season, through special funding provided by RCTC for the 91 Project.

Motorists who experience a vehicular breakdown should stay in their vehicle, turn on their hazard lights and wait for the FSP or the California Highway Patrol to summon help.

All tow trucks are white and display the FSP logo. Drivers wear blue uniforms and safety vests with the same logo, have an ID badge on their shirts and are certified by the CHP.

The RCTC has also undertaken a series of activities to help ensure the safety of motorists and crews within the project area:

 

  • The team conducted a detailed review of the construction limits and identified potentially sensitive areas, including those prone to flooding and erosion. Special attention is being paid to these sensitive areas.
  • Erosion control measures, such as the placement of fiber rolls, have been put into place, and crews are routinely checking drainage systems to make sure they are fully functional. Detention basins also have been created to hold excess water.
  • The project team is monitoring weather forecasts and discussing during weekly and daily planning meetings.
  • Construction crews have taken part in training sessions to increase awareness and responsiveness during the rainy season.
  • Motorists are asked to report any problems related to drainage, potholes or flooding within the project limits on the 91 or on Interstate 15 by calling the helpline, 877-770-9191, sending an email to sr91project@rctc.org or using the “Contact Us/Feedback” section of the website, sr91project.info.
  • Motorists should allow extra travel time during rainstorms. Drivers also are reminded that although the speed limit is 55 MPH within the construction area, it is important to adjust travel speeds to match rainy weather conditions, visibility and traffic. In addition, traffic fines are doubled in construction zones.

 

Chino Valley Ready for El Niño

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – As the first of many El Niño storms arrive in the southland, officials are helping residents to be aware of how to be prepared for the storms and their aftermath. Chino Valley residents have been hearing about the El Niño weather system since last year’s summer months, and now Chino Valley Fire District officials are saying that they have started a public awareness campaign to inform residents about El Niño. They have created an El Niño information page on their website and they have begun sending messages through social media.
“We want residents to take a proactive approach,” Chino Valley Fire District’s Public Information Officer Massiel Ladron De Guevara said.
El Niño storms in California caused economic losses of $2.04 billion in 1982-83 and $804 million in 1997-98, according to a recent report by the National University System Institute for Policy Research.
Chino Valley Fire, Police and Public Works are working together with county officials– along with local, regional and state partners – to make sure all safety issues throughout the county are being addressed, according to city officials.
Flash flooding and flows of mud and debris are a concern in the Chino Valley. Severe flooding on Euclid Avenue near Prado Regional Park; Pine Avenue by El Prado Golf Course; on Kimball at Rincon Meadows, and Schaefer Avenue between 4th Street and Central Avenue is expected.
Public safety officials are urging commuters to be cautious around potential flooding areas and to follow this simple advice by the National Weather Service: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard, according to the NWS. People underestimate the force and power of water. Many of the deaths occur in automobiles as they are swept downstream.
“A lot of people don’t know that an average car can float in as little as 12 inches of water and most cars can be swept away in 18-24 inches of moving water,” Ladron De Guevara said. “If you come across a water-covered road, do not attempt to cross it on foot or in a vehicle. Remember, ‘Turn Around Don’t Drown!”
Flood control channels and culvert crossings are being cleared in anticipation of heavy rains, and advance teams are advising homeless encampments to relocate, according to county officials.
Chino and Chino Hills residents can get up to 25 sandbags and sand at no cost.
Here is a listing of sandbag distribution locations:
Chino
Fire Station No. 67 (SANDBAGS & SAND AVAILABLE)
5980 Riverside Drive Chino, CA 91710; (909) 902-5267
For residential use only, not industrial. No limits on quantity. (Self-service: Residents must bring their own shovels).
Fire Station No. 63 (SANDBAGS & SAND AVAILABLE) 7550 Kimball Avenue Chino, CA (909) 606-2415
Chino Valley Independent Fire District Administration (SANDBAGS & SAND AVAILABLE) 14011 City Center Dr. Chino Hills, CA 91709; (909) 902-5260
Chino Hills
Fire Station No. 61 (SAND & SANDBAGS AVAILABLE) Residents only – Must have proof of residency. 5078 Schaefer Avenue Chino, CA 91710; (909) 902-5261
Fire Station No. 62 (SAND/SANDBAGS AVAILABLE – Bring own shovel) 5551 Butterfield Ranch Road Chino Hills, CA 91709; (909) 597-9062
Fire Station No. 64 (SAND/SANDBAGS AVAILABLE – Bring own shovel) 16231 Canon Lane Chino Hills, CA 91709; (909) 597-9064

Additional El Niño resources are available at http://www.chinovalleyfire.org and on the county website, http://www.sbcounty.gov/main/elnino.asp.

Chino P.D. Combating Package Theft with GPS Bait Packages

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Courtesy of Chino Police Department

CHINO – Chino P.D. is utilizing GPS tracking technology in an effort to combat the growing concern of package theft from residences this holiday season.

Several bait packages equipped with GPS trackers have been placed at residential locations throughout Chino this week as an enforcement tool and proactive prevention measure. The device will notify police personnel when packages have been stolen and allow officers to locate suspects with a high degree of accuracy.

“We want these thieves to know we are stepping up our enforcement efforts to protect our citizens,” states Special Enforcement Team Sergeant Marotta. “We hope that through the use of tools such as this, we can both prevent these thefts and apprehend those who victimize our community members.”

If you have any information related to incidents of package theft or have been a victim of package theft in Chino and would like to report it, please contact Chino PD at 909.628.1234.

Inland Empire: 32 Honored for Saving Lives

Deputies honored for their life-saving actions pictured with Sheriff McMahon.

Photo courtesy: SBCSD
Deputies honored for their life-saving actions pictured with Sheriff McMahon.

Staff Reports

San Bernardino County –The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department on Friday, Dec. 18, recognized 32 personnel and citizens whose actions contributed to saving many lives.

Sheriff John McMahon presented the individuals with the awards and praised their heroic deeds at the event.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the professional character displayed by all 32 individuals awarded,” McMahon said. “Without hesitation, citizens and employees from various agencies stepped in and gave so many people their life back.”

Among the stories of the heroic acts, here are a few shining examples:
Deputy Will Fifita was honored for saving his father’s life while off-duty. On Thursday, Oct. 1, Fifita was off-duty at LAX Airport waiting to pick up family members. Suddenly, Will’s father, Eddie Fifita, fell to the ground and stopped breathing, possibly in cardiac arrest. Will quickly began assessing his father’s needs and was assisted by Customs Agents Phillip Gaff and Kevin Mahoney. The three officers began CPR and after several minutes, Will located a pulse and his father began breathing. Eddie Fifita was transported to a nearby hospital.
Highland resident Micheal Ruth helped save an injured driver on June 19.  At about 11 p.m., a traffic collision occurred on Boulder near Pacific. Ruth witnessed a car crash into a tree and become fully engulfed in flames. Ruth ran to the vehicle, saw the injured driver in the backseat, reached into the burning vehicle and pulled the driver to safety. After rescuing the driver, Ruth stayed with the driver until he was transported to a local hospital.
Deputy Daniel Smith was honored for saving his partner Deputy David Franquez’s life earlier this year.

In January of 2015, Deputies Daniel Smith and David Franquez were assigned as partners for the day on routine patrol in Rancho Cucamonga. They stopped for a quick bite to eat before their first assignment. Smith was researching the subjects they were going to contact when he looked at Franquez and realized he was choking. Franquez’s face turned red and he was no longer breathing. Smith got Franquez out of the patrol car and immediately began the Heimlich maneuver. The one hard compression dislodged the food from his airway and he began breathing on his own.

Eastvale: New Attendance Guidelines for ERHS

Staff Reports

EASTVALE– Eleanor Roosevelt High School has revised its attendance policy.  Effective January 11, 2016, parents will no longer be able to sign their child out of school early, including lunch time release, via email.  Parents must release their child in person or speak directly to an attendance clerk by calling (951) 738-2148.  Adults must show a valid photo ID and be listed on the child’s emergency card. In addition, absences and tardies must also be called in to the ERHS attendance office.  Voicemails will be permitted, but emails will not be accepted.  Also effective January 11, 2016, children will no longer be released within the last 30 minutes of the school day, and ERHS is asking that parents plan appointments accordingly.

Chino Hills Boys’ Basketball Wins Major Tournament

Staff Reports

CHINO HILLS – Chino Hills High boys’ basketball team received an early Christmas gift last Wednesday when they won the City of Palms Classic Tournament in Florida.

The Chino Hills Huskies won the prominent tournament with a 66-60 overtime victory against Patrick School of Elizabeth, N.J.

“It’s the best tournament in the nation,” said Chino Hills coach Steve Baik. “I think we have a chance to be named No. 1 in the nation now, so to have this opportunity, for a little public school out in California, it’s like a dream come true. We want to keep it rolling.”

The Huskies knocked off some of the nation’s best boys basketball teams to reach the top including Thomas Jefferson High of New York, Monteverde Academy of Florida, and High Point Christian of North Carolina.

With the victory, Chino Hills became the fifth California school to win the tournament and the first since Santa Ana Mater Dei in 2008.

The UCLA-bound senior Lonzo Ball was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player and scored 20 points in the final. His brothers, LiAngelo and LaMelo, Onyeka Oknongwu and Elizjah Scott also made impressive plays to take the All-Star Team to victory.

The Huskies are also seeking to be named the best boys’ basketball team in the country when ranking results are released this week by a USA Today High School Sports Poll.

The Huskies winning streak will continue at the MaxPreps Holiday Classic Tournament through Dec. 29 in Rancho Mirage.

Diamond Bar Completes Beautification Projects

Photo by Jennifer Heyen New City Monument Greets Commuters along Grand Avenue

Photo by Jennifer Heyen
New City Monument Greets Commuters along Grand Avenue

By Carol Heyen

DIAMOND BAR– The City of Diamond Bar has recently completed two major beautification improvement projects.

The Grand Avenue Beautification Project, which began in May 2015, included several aesthetically-pleasing upgrades along Grand Avenue at the intersections of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Longview Drive.  Both of which are considered primary gateways into the city, according to city officials.
Workers installed 16 new traffic signals, created 12,000 square feet of new sidewalks, and laid 3,000 square feet of pavers.
A new gateway monument was installed at the intersection of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Longview Drive. Design details of windmills and timber rails from the city’s agriculture past are incorporated in the new monument.

Other improvements included the planting of 67 new drought-resistant trees along with other water-friendly plants. Bus benches will be added by Foothill Transit later this year.
Money for the Grand Avenue Beautification Project was made possible from a federal grant obtained through the Safe Accountable Flexible Efficient Transportation Equity Act.

Carlton Peterson Park’s parking lot also underwent some much-needed rehabilitation. The rehabilitation included repaving and adding 34 new parking spots. Ronald Reagan Park will also undergo parking lot rehabilitation.

 

Brahma Mathletes named National Champs

Photo courtesy of Walnut Valley U.S.D.

Photo courtesy of Walnut Valley U.S.D.

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR – Diamond Bar High’s Math Team wrapped up its undefeated season in dramatic fashion.

After eight weeks of exciting competition against hundreds of schools across the nation, the Diamond Bar students were named the national Math Madness champions on December 11.

Math Madness is a national online event inspired by college basketball’s March Madness tournament. Teams in the contest, which is sponsored by the American Mathematics Association (AMA), play in a round-robin format and then are seeded into a draw of 64 teams.

First reports from the December 9 finals ranked the Brahmas as second place finishers against competitors from Valley Christian High School in San Jose.  Two days later, officials announced that the first place team had cheated, and named the Brahmas the winners

“We knew that the final match was going to be very, very close,” commented math teacher and advisor Jeff Brose.   Teachers Dena Lorde and Jimmy Kuo served as co-advisors and retired teacher Howard Alcosser as Coach Emeritus.

Each 30-minute weekly match contained a set of 10 questions which became more difficult as the competition progressed.  “In one of our matches this year, we earned the deciding point with just seconds remaining,” said Brose, whose team played in the Division IIE, which is the division made up of teams with more than 20 active members.  “Making it to the finals this year was a pretty big thing,” Brose said. The school’s best finish to date was making it to the quarterfinals.

“They (Valley Christian) had been performing on par with us through the tournament,” he added.

Playing other opponents in the semifinals, DBHS earned 69 points and Valley Christian earned 70 points. The team score was comprised of the top players’ scores.  In the final match, Diamond Bar earned 62 points, with about 60 students competing.  “Valley Christian shocked everyone by earning a whopping 93 points,” Brose said.

Diamond Bar’s top performer was Benjamin Chen, who was able to earn 9/10 on the final.  Ben is ranked #21 in the nation out of over 17,000 students.  Runner-ups Sabrina Tseng and William He each scored 7’s on the exam.

“When Valley Christian turned in an unbelievable six perfect 10/10 scores, AMA’s Tim Kelley determined they had cheated,” Brose said.  In the end, Diamond Bar was awarded the championship.   “This capped a truly unforgettable season,” said Brose.  The students learned some lifelong lessons, including the value of working as a team toward a goal and performing under pressure with poise and integrity, Brose said.  “And they learned some cool math too!” he quipped.

Diamond Bar High was among a select group of schools invited to join the new Math Madness competition when it began a few years ago.  Since then the contest has grown tremendously.
“Being named the champions is a major accomplishment, because a large number of the schools involved in the contest are private schools, prep schools, and specialized math and STEM academies,” Alcosser said.

 

Walnut City Council Election Set for April

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Staff Reports

WALNUT– A general municipal election will be held on Tuesday, April 12, 2016, for three Walnut City Council member positions.  Members will serve a full four-year term, beginning April 2016 and ending April 2020.

The three City Council members whose terms are expiring are Tony Cartagena, Eric Ching, and Nancy Tragar.

Council Members are currently paid $300 per month and have a monthly health benefit allowance of $700. In addition, Council Members receive $50 per meeting for attendance at Housing Authority meetings.

The nomination period for these offices began on Monday, December 21, 2015 and close on Tuesday, January 19, 2016.  Qualified candidates must be 18 years of age, a citizen of the United States, and a registered voter residing within the Walnut city limits.  Candidate Handbooks are available at City Hall.  Obtaining nomination papers will take approximately 30 minutes, and there is a filing fee of $25.   All candidates are requested to make an appointment to obtain or return nomination papers by calling the City Clerk’s Office at (909) 595-7543, ext. 311.

If an incumbent does not file, the nomination period will be extended to Wednesday, January 20, 2016.  If no one or only one person is nominated for an elective office, appointment to the elective office may be made as prescribed by the Elections Code of the State of California No. 10229.

The polls will be open on April 12, 2016 between 7 a.m. and 8 p.m. Campaign statements will be posted on the City’s website: www.ci.walnut.ca.us.

Two Men Arrested for Vehicle Theft in Chino Hills

Photos by San Bernardino County Sheriff – Chino Hills Station Stolen vehicle and items recovered by Chino Hills Sheriff’s deputies.

Photos by San Bernardino County Sheriff – Chino Hills Station
Stolen vehicle and items recovered by Chino Hills Sheriff’s deputies.

By Sara Cipollone

Chino Hills – Two Riverside County men were arrested on Sunday, Dec. 20 by the Chino Hills Sheriff’s Station in response to a service call regarding a vehicle burglary.
On Sunday morning, the Chino Hills deputies responded to a call reporting a vehicle burglary in progress. Adam Rudolph, 23, of Riverside and John Gillespie, 26, of Menifee were arrested in relation to the report.
The reporting party provided police with a description of the suspect vehicle and the last known direction of travel, according to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department. Deputies set up a perimeter and conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle on Rock Springs Drive, just west of Oakland Way.
Police found several stolen items inside the suspects’ vehicle which link them to an ongoing investigation involving numerous victims throughout the city of Chino Hills.
Rudolph and Gillespie were identified during a lineup and booked at West Valley Detention Center for burglary, conspiracy to commit burglary, and possession of stolen property.

91 Construction Message Sign Hacked

Image courtesy of Nikki Worden

Image courtesy of Nikki Worden

Staff Reports

CORONA – A hacked electronic construction sign on the northbound Interstate 15 had commuters scratching their heads at the unusual message Christmas evening.

The electronic sign, which is located between El Cerrito and Ontario Avenue in Corona, was changed from a construction alert to a political message Dec. 25.

Several commuters posted images and video of the hacked sign on social media. One of the Facebook images shows the sign was changed to read: “Inland Empire Supports Donald Trump. Merry Xmas. Vote Donald Trump.”

The political message was replaced on Dec. 26 when work crews returned to work after the Christmas holiday, according to the Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC).

The RCTC issued a press release regarding the vandalism of a changeable message on Monday, Dec. 28.

“Enhanced security measures will be implemented to protect the signs and the project from additional vandalism,” John Standiford, RCTC’s Deputy Executive Director said in the press release.

At this time, California Highway Patrol investigators have no solid leads as to who vandalized the sign.

Empowered for Resolution

Pastor Robert Jewett Word of Truth Community ChurchBy Pastor Robert Jewett

As we begin a new year, many of us will set out to make changes in our lives.  After enjoying much feasting from Thanksgiving through New Year’s, it is typical to resolve to change our eating habits and setup some serious exercise routines.  Fitness gyms love this time of year because memberships spike.  The mindset is, “I am going to get healthy this year!”  While I certainly share these sentiments, I also understand that my spiritual health is even more important than my physical health.

Changing eating habits and committing to exercising regularly takes self-discipline and a time commitment. To plan out meals, shop for specific foods, and then prepare healthy meals takes dedication.  Adding a new exercise routine takes even more energy and time.  While many will make a resolution to start these habits, not all will successfully accomplish them.  If you happened to make this resolution, I encourage you to press on and not give up.

Beyond your physical bodies, however, I want to encourage you to “train yourself for godliness; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come” (1 Tim. 4:7-8).  Training for godliness begins by repenting from sin and placing all your trust in Jesus Christ.  Much like eating a healthy diet and exercising, your spiritual diet includes regularly reading the Bible and then doing what it says.  Your ongoing spiritual training occurs daily as you express your love for God by obeying him and by loving others.  The beauty of your spiritual training is that since it is ultimately for the glory of God, it is God who empowers your resolution to get spiritually fit: “for it is God who works in you, both to will and to work for his good pleasure” (Phil. 2:13).

Let the training begin!

Word of Truth Community Church meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at 850 E. Parkridge Ave., #110, in Corona.  For more information, visit wordoftruthcc.com.

Wild Winds Blast through IE

Photo courtesy of Facebook A driveway covered with tumbleweeds greeted this Chino Hills’ homeowner.

Photo courtesy of Facebook
A driveway covered with tumbleweeds greeted this Chino Hills’ homeowner.

By Carol Heyen

Inland Empire – A National Weather Service wind advisory came to fruition Saturday as strong winds pummeled the Inland Empire.
Winds gusting over 40 miles per hour sent dirt and tumbleweeds flying across the 71 freeway and into Chino Hills’ yards.  Drivers swerved to avoid the damaging weeds as they flew by.
Houses were shaking from the winds and hundreds of trees were blown over as residents hunkered down to escape the gusts.
Residents took to Facebook to complain about the wild winds.  Many people lost brand-new drone and helicopter Christmas gifts as they were caught up in the gusts.  Garbage cans and Christmas decorations were found blown down streets, and wooden fences were blown over.
In Eastvale, a backyard palapa was snapped off its pole and landed upside down in the family’s Jacuzzi, and a trampoline that had been staked down flew up and over a brick wall.
Cleaning up the mess was no easy task.  Chino Hills’ resident Steven A. Velasquez Sr. likened clean-up to “bailing water out of a sinking boat.”
City clean-up crews were seen in Chino Hills on Sunday, helping to dispose of the tumbleweeds from residents’ front yards and streets.
Some blame El Niño for the windy and freezing conditions that swept across the southland over the Christmas holiday.
NASA reports that the 2015 El Niño, currently unfolding in the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, is the strongest since 1997-98. According to officials, the worst is yet to come with weather events likely to peak in early 2016.
The strong winds serve as a reminder to be prepared. The Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) say that high winds can be just as dangerous as heavy rain or snow. They remind residents to remove or secure items that are typically outside.
Bring patio furniture, garden tools, garbage cans, and toys inside. Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on the building. Anchor objects that are unsafe to bring inside, like gas grills or propane tanks.

Go The Extra Mile

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper
One phrase that we have often used in our family is “Go The Extra Mile”.  We would tell our kids to do more than they were asked to do.  We wanted them to go beyond what was expected of them.
During His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gave a series of instructions to his followers.  He challenged them to live differently than the culture of their time.  In Matthew 5:41, Jesus said, “If someone forces you to go one mile, go with him two”.  At the time Jesus spoke those words, the nation of Israel was under Roman occupation.  A Roman soldier could force anyone to carry his equipment and materials up to a full mile.  No one could refuse this demand.
When Jesus said, “go with him two,” He was saying that His followers should exceed what is demanded of them by those in authority.  Followers of Christ should go “above and beyond” what is required of them.  Today, many people do as little as possible.  Students in school spend as little time as necessary to complete their homework.  Employees often do the same thing.  They can’t wait to punch their time card and leave their building or factory.
I wonder about you.  When you are given an assignment at work or school, do you strive for excellence or just try to do the minimum required?  Do you exceed the expectations of your teacher or boss or do you only do as little as necessary to complete the assignment?  What would your classmates or co-workers say about the quality of your work and the level of your performance?
I read a story about a man in England who built walls out of rocks and stones.  You see these stone walls all over rural England.  He was very careful to make sure that the foundation of the wall was well built, even though it would eventually be covered up with dirt.  When his young apprentice asked him why he spent so much time and effort on the part of the wall that no one would see, he replied, “Even if no one else sees it, I will know and God will know if it was well built.”
Let me challenge you to exceed expectations and excel in what you do.  Look for opportunities to “go the extra mile.”  Others may never know the extra time and effort you invested, but God will know and you 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 http://www.efreedb.org

Vintage War Plane to Soar Over Chino Valley on Jan. 2

By Monique Valadez

Courtesy of Planes of Fame Museum Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, the third most produced fighter plane of WWII. Photo of P-40

Courtesy of Planes of Fame Museum
Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, the third most produced fighter plane of WWII.
Photo of P-40

Chino – On January 2 look up to the skies for a special flyover by a vintage Curtiss P-40 Warhawk in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Flying Tigers, the 1st American Volunteer Group.

But the action starts inside the Planes of Fame Air Museum with a speaker’s panel discussion featuring aviation historians, impressive displays, and a rare movie screening on Saturday.

As part of the museum’s monthly Living History Flying Day, this year the P-40, the most advanced fighter in the US arsenal at the outbreak of WWII and of which over 13,000 would be produced by war’s end experts say, will be on display and perform a flight demonstration. The shark-faced nose art of the Flying Tigers remains among the most recognizable image of any individual combat aircraft or combat unit of World War II.

Starting at 10 a.m., distinguished aviation experts, historians and veterans will make up the speaker’s panel. Aviation Historian Kevin Thompson will moderate the discussion. The museum’s Founder Edward Maloney will also bring his expertise to the presentation and help moderate.

Author and Aviation Historian Mark Carlson will discuss his latest book, Flying On Film: A Century of Aviation in the Movies. The book will be available for purchase at the event.

Guests will also be treated to “Ways of the Warhawk” movie showing. The 35-minute black and white film was produced in 1940 by the Curtiss-Wright Corporation and provides an up-close look at the mighty P-40 aircraft.  According to museum officials, the film puts you in the cockpit to learn the controls and features of the P-40. Two screenings will be held at 12:45 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.

The Planes of Fame Air Museum is located at the Chino Airport, 7000 Merrill Avenue #17. The event is open to the public. The museum opens at 9 a.m.

Diamond Bar City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

DIAMOND BAR– The December 15 Diamond Bar City Council meeting began with a presentation of a City Tile to Lt. Anthony Tachias upon his retirement from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. The Council thanked him for his hard work and praised his 32 years of dedicated service to the Sheriff’s Department and the citizens of Diamond Bar.

Next, representatives from the Los Angeles County Public Works department discussed El Nino preparedness. They emphasized the importance of spreading awareness of the El Nino season and its dangers, and the importance of the community preparing for potential problems caused by flooding from El Nino storms. More information can be found online at www.lacounty.gov/elnino.

During the public comments, a representative from Donate Life invited the Council to add a dedicated rose to the Donate Life float for the Rose Parade. The float will feature donors as well as those who received a donated organ and the gift of life. Also, a representative from the Diamond Bar Public Library announced a Holiday Music Program on December 19 at 2 p.m., as well as Santa’s arrival at the Diamond Bar Public Library.

The schedule of future events was read, which includes the Holiday Diamond Ride, a free shuttle service to and from Diamond Bar shopping centers, running from November 27 to January 1; and the Holiday Tree Curbside Collection Program, that will run December 26 through January 8. Trees free of decorations and flocking may be left at the curb for free pickup, although trees over six feet must be cut in half.  The Planning Commission meeting on December 22 and the Parks and Recreation meeting on December 24 are both canceled. City offices will be closed December 24 and 25 for the Christmas holiday, and will reopen on Monday, December 28.  City offices will also be closed January 1 in observance of the New Year’s holiday.  They will reopen on January 4, 2016.  The next City Council meeting will be on January 5; and the next Planning Commission meeting will be on January 12.  The next Traffic and Transportation meeting is on January 14. The Winter Snow Fest will be held on January 16 from 9-3 p.m. at Pantera Park, 738 Pantera Drive in Diamond Bar. It will have four snow hills, a snow play area, snowman building, a craft area, and children’s game booths.  Sleds will be provided.

Next, the Council approved all items on the consent calendar, including the minutes from the City Council meeting on December 1; minutes from the planning commission; minutes from October 27; ratification of a check register totaling $421,068.45; adjourning the December 15 City Council meeting to January 19; a resolution approving the application for $267,500 of land and water conservation funds for the development of the Canyon Loop Trail; acceptance of work performed by Valleycrest Landscape Maintenance to remove turf from the medians along Diamond Bar Blvd. and replace it with drought tolerant planting material and mulch, plus retro-fitting the irrigation system as necessary to meet state Water Board requirements; a funding agreement with Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority to secure grant funds in the amount of $1,406,860 for the Diamond Bar adaptive traffic control; adoption of a resolution amending the City compensation plan; an amended and restated City Manager employment agreement; a resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into a five-year administrative services agreement with ICMA-RC for 457 Deferred Compensation Plan Services; and a contract amendment to the consulting services agreement with Tait & Associates for construction administration services for the Ronald Reagan Park and Carlton Peterson Park parking lots rehabilitation projects in the amount of $40,000.

 

After a brief public hearing, the Council adopted a resolution approving the Community Development Block Grant Program allocation, including $198,757 in Fiscal Year 2016-17 funds and $72,709 from unallocated balance of funds for the total amount of $271,466. A second emergency ordinance was read, and subsequently adopted, which approved the guidelines for implementation of the City of Diamond Bar water efficient landscape ordinance.

Finally, the Council ratified City Council appointments and adopted a resolution confirming the appointment of specific representatives to the San Gabriel Valley Council of Governments.  A resolution authorizing the City Manager to enter into an agreement for other post-employment benefits, trust administration and investment management services with California Public Employees Retirement System was approved, and delegation of authority to request disbursements for qualified expenses was also approved.

The Council adjourned with plans to meet again January 5, at 6:30 p.m. at 21865 Copley Dr.

Former Cheerleading Coach Pleads Guilty to Molesting Girls on his Squad

Photo Courtesy of San Bernardino County District Attorney Kristopher Bland

Photo Courtesy of San Bernardino County District Attorney
Kristopher Bland

Courtesy of San Bernardino County District Attorney

Chino – A Chino cheerleading coach was sentenced Friday to 18 years in state prison for molesting girls on his Pop Warner cheerleading squad.
Kristofer Bland, 34, of Chino pleaded “no contest” to 13 felony counts, including one count of sexual penetration on a minor age 14 and 12 counts of lewd act on a minor aged 14 or 15. The 13 charges involved three girls on his squad.
Bland was a cheer coach with the Chino Pop Warner league, a non-profit football and cheering organization for children ages 5-15.
“The defendant is a true predator,” said Deputy District Attorney Karen Schmauss, who prosecuted the case. “He used his position as a cheerleading coach to win the trust and compliance of the girls under his care. His influence was so strong that some of the children whom he molested continue to defend him, because they love him so much.”
The mother of one of the girls called Chino police in Feb. 2014 after overhearing her discussing part of what Bland had done to her. The 14-year-old told police that Bland had committed acts of molestation on her while giving her a ride home from cheer practice. He had also told her that he had molested two other girls on the squad.
Bland admitted to police that he molested the 14-year-old. He also admitted to molesting two 15-year-olds on the squad. The crimes were committed over a span of five months between Aug. 2013 and Jan. 2014.
During the investigation, Bland was charged with molesting six additional girls on the team, aged 12 and 13. However, those charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.
At the time of his arrest, Bland was a private first class of the California Army National Guard in Azusa, working in intelligence analysis. His security clearance was pulled at the time of his arrest, and he will now receive a general discharge, other than honorable, according to his commanding officer.
The courtroom was packed with victims and their friends and family members, along with family members and supporters of the defendant.
The mother of the 14-year-old spoke at the hearing, stating, “I do not believe that he is sorry. I believe he is just sorry he got caught. Kristofer Bland is a sexual predator and threat to our community. I don’t know what the future holds for my daughter but I do know that as of today she will no longer be a victim of Kristofer Bland but a survivor of Kristofer Bland. She is the strongest and bravest person I know. I know she will not let this destroy her.”