Category Archives: News By City

Chino Valley Students Treated to Shopping Spree

Photo courtesy: CVUSD A Walmart employee checks out a student and his chaperones.

Photo courtesy: CVUSD
A Walmart employee checks out a student and his chaperones.

Courtesy of CVUSD

Chino – Smiles, grins and laughter came easy for 100 Chino Valley Unified School District students and their parents as they were treated to a police escort, a shopping spree, visit with Santa, crafts and snacks during the annual Make A Child Smile event on Dec.15 at Walmart in Chino.
The students, selected by their schools for the field trip, pressed their noses against the glass of school bus windows as Chino Police motorcycle officers whizzed by, stopping traffic as the caravan of buses was led to the store by two Chino Valley fire engines.
The students were greeted at the store by dozens of waving Walmart employees, Chino Valley Independent Fire District firefighters, Chino Police officers, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies, Highway Patrol officers, Cal Fire officials, other first responders from various departments around the Chino Valley, and Chino Valley Unified School District employees. Santa was among the first to shake the students’ hands as they disembarked.
“We’re like celebrities!” one child yelled as he arrived at the store.
Each child, accompanied by a parent or volunteer, was paired with first responders or community volunteers and a Walmart employee and allowed to shop for $150 in items. Gift cards for the purchases were provided by Chino Valley Fire Foundation. Some students chose large gifts like bicycles. Others picked out clothes, shoes and small toys. Some students said they were shopping for holiday presents for their entire family.
Nearly a dozen volunteers, including members of the Chino Hills 55+ Club, bagged up the items so they’d be safe for the bus trip back to the schools.
The students were also treated to snacks inside a tent, crafts, two areas of man-made snow, and a formal photo with Santa courtesy of School Portraits by Adams Photography in Chino.
The event is hosted by Chino Valley Fire Foundation.

Photo courtesy: CVUSD A student and her family member have their photo taken with Santa, a Chino Police officer, and a Walmart employee at the annual Make A Child Smile event at Walmart in Chino.

Photo courtesy: CVUSD
A student and her family member have their photo taken with Santa, a Chino Police officer, and a Walmart employee at the annual Make A Child Smile event at Walmart in Chino.

Local Residents Form New Lions Club in Eastvale

By Mike Jones
Eastvale – Eastvale is joining the world’s largest service organization, Lions Clubs International. The Eastvale Lions Club will join the more than 46,000 Lions clubs making a difference in communities around the world. The new club is now seeking civic-minded men and women to join them in working together to meet needs within the community.

Lions are people who want to help, who want to make a difference, and who want to have fun while doing it. Lions give a lot to their communities, but they get back something that’s even more valuable – the satisfaction that comes from changing lives.

In addition to providing hands-on support, Lions clubs give members an opportunity to advance worthy causes, serve with friends and become leaders in the community.

A one-hour information session for interested community members who want to learn more about Lions and how they can make a difference in their community is scheduled on Thursday’s (except major holidays) at 6:30 p.m. at Poninos Pizzarena, 12768 Limonite Ave. #101 Eastvale, CA, 92880. Lion leaders will also be visiting local businesses and community leaders to invite them to join the new club.

For more information on becoming a charter member of this new club, please contact 2nd Vice District Governor Mike Jones at 909-463-5826 or Lion Bob Niez, Past District Governor at 909-585-7121 or email Voyagermj@Hotmail.com.

Lions Clubs International is the largest service club organization in the world.  Its 1.4 million members in more than 46,000 clubs are serving communities in 207 countries and geographical areas around the globe.  Since 1917, Lions clubs have aided the blind and visually impaired, championed youth initiatives and strengthened local communities through hands-on service and humanitarian projects.  For more information about Lions Clubs International, visit lionsclubs.org.

 

Chino Valley Fire gives toys to Children’s Hospital

Courtesy of the Chino Valley Fire District (L-R) front row: Child, Public Information Officer Massiel De Guevara, Junior Firefighter Vincent, child receiving care at Children’s hospital middle row, Firefighter/Paramedic Shane Stocking, Firefighter Jason Farnsworth, Fire Inspector Alvin Cuna. Far back, Firefighter/Paramedic Tommy Kavanaugh

Courtesy of the Chino Valley Fire District
(L-R) front row: Child, Public Information Officer Massiel De Guevara, Junior Firefighter Vincent, child receiving care at Children’s hospital
middle row, Firefighter/Paramedic Shane Stocking, Firefighter Jason Farnsworth, Fire Inspector Alvin Cuna.
Far back, Firefighter/Paramedic Tommy Kavanaugh

Courtesy of Chino Valley Fire District

Chino – Off duty Firefighters, Fire District staff, and Junior Firefighter, Vincent Dominguez, visited Children’s Hospital Los Angeles on Dec. 22, 2015 to deliver toys to children receiving care.  Jr. Firefighter Vincent is a 7-year-old former patient of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, where he fought and beat cancer.  He received his Chino Valley Fire District uniform and junior firefighter badge on June 20, 2015, while still undergoing treatment.

During a recent toy drive for Chino Valley children where Jr. Firefighter Vincent was volunteering his time, he approached our firefighters with the idea of going to the children’s hospital to deliver toys to children that are currently fighting cancer.  He wanted to visit with hospital staff and to brighten the day of some of his friends that are still in the hospital, as well as any other children that have come in since he was able to leave the hospital.

The Chino Valley Fire Foundation provided $1,300 for foundation members and firefighters to purchase several toys, art supplies, sports equipment, electronic devices and gift cards that were distributed on Dec. 22. Items were delivered to dozens of children that morning.  The smiles on their faces were priceless.

The Chino Valley Fire Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting life, safety, and welfare of the public through educational programs, direct assistance, and financial support of charitable organizations, victims of tragic events, and injured firefighters.

Mt. SAC Elects New Officers, Add New Trustee

Staff Reports

Walnut – The Mt. San Antonio College Board of Trustees elected on Dec. 9 Judy Chen Haggerty as president, Rosanne Bader as vice president, and Dr. Manuel Baca as clerk. These roles are one-year terms and effective immediately.
The board also elected Jay Chen to represent Mt. SAC Trustee Area 5.
Haggerty was the first Asian-American to serve on the board and elected in 2001, 2005, 2009, and 2013. She has been a practicing attorney since 1986, a law professor at Rio Hondo College since 2001, and currently serves on the governing board of Whittier Medical Center.
Bader was first elected to the board in 2003. She was reelected in 2007, 2011, and 2015. In 2007, Trustee Bader was elected to the California Community College Trustees Board. She is a member of the Board of Directors of Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center and serves as a member of the hospital’s Foundation Board. She also presides over the Pomona Rotary Board. She spent 32 years in public education, both as a teacher and administrator. Before retiring from the Pomona Unified School District in 2001, she was principal at two Pomona elementary schools.
Baca was first elected to the board in 1999 and reelected in 2003, 2007, 2011, and 2015. He currently teaches political science at Rio Hondo College in Whittier, where he has also held key academic and administrative positions, including an interim presidency. On the state level, Dr. Baca is president of the California Community Colleges Board of Governors. He is a member and past president of the Kiwanis Club of Walnut Valley, a mentor with the El Monte Union High School District’s Graphic Arts & Communications Academy, and on the executive committee of the Rio Hondo Boys & Girls Club of Bell Gardens. He has also been a member of the 32nd Congressional District’s U.S. Military Academies Advisory Committee.
Chen previously served on the Board of Education for the Hacienda La Puente Unified School District for two terms. He ran for Congress in 2012. A graduate of San Gabriel Valley public schools and Harvard University, Jay previously worked at Bain & Company as a management consultant and currently owns his own real estate business. He is a lieutenant in the United States Naval Reserve and a Marshall Memorial Fellow. He has served as an executive volunteer at Children’s Hospital of Orange County.
The board consists of seven elected community members and one student trustee. The other Mt. SAC trustees are outgoing president Dr. David K. Hall, trustee Laura Santos, trustee Robert Hidalgo, and student trustee Elizabeth Santos.
The Mt. San Antonio College Board of Trustees meets the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. in Founders Hall at 1100 North Grand Avenue.

Diamond Bar: Over 150 Tons of Carbon Emissions Eliminated

Photos courtesy of Diamond Bar City Hundreds of Diamond Bar resident did their part in going “green” by participating in the first America Recycles Day Nov. 14.

Photos courtesy of Diamond Bar City
Hundreds of Diamond Bar resident did their part in going “green” by participating in the first America Recycles Day Nov. 14.

By Carol Heyen

Diamond Bar – The City of Diamond Bar’s Eco Expo set a new record for the largest e-waste collection, with over 5 tons collected at America Recycles Day, Nov.14. At the event that took place at the Air Quality Management District, the community was able to drop off unwanted electronic devices, clothing, and more.

After researching various E-Waste companies, the city decided to partner with All Green Electronics Recycling.

“We chose to partner with All Green because they made us feel that our event was in good hands during all communication and they have all of the required certifications within the E-Waste recycling industry,” said the City’s Management Analyst Alfa Lopez. “They help us provide a free, responsible and safe option for recycling E-Waste.”

Because All Green is an e-Stewards and R2 certified E-Waste recycler, no material collected will be sent overseas to developing nations or dumped into landfills.

“There were multiple educational booths, fun activities and outlets to responsibly recycle,” said Chelsea Wilder from All Green.

Out of all the services provided such as clothing and textile recycling, garden mulch giveaway, and green information booths at the Eco Expo, electronic waste recycling was “the busiest service of that day,” Lopez added.

Due to the Eco Expo’s massive success, another has been scheduled for Earth Day, Saturday, April 23, 2016.  It will also be held at the AQMD.  While electronic devices such as computers, laptops and cell phones are always accepted, it is important to check if your device qualifies for free recycling before heading to the next event.

For more information about Earth Day E-Waste Collection Drive and a list of acceptable items, please visit: http://www.allgreenrecycling.com/events-city-of-diamond-bar/.

 

Social Media Leads to Arrest of Chino Burglar

Staff Reports

CHINO– Social media helped Chino Police catch an accused burglar on Tuesday, Dec. 15.
Yvess Emmanuel Ibarra-Vega, 20, of Pomona, was arrested and charged in a series of robberies – including two that occurred at Doublz restaurant in Chino.
On Nov. 11 and Dec. 3, Doublz restaurant, located at 4750 Riverside Drive, was robbed by an unknown male armed with a handgun.
On Dec. 14, Chino Police posted surveillance footage of the suspect on Facebook in hopes of getting the word out about a robbery that occurred at Doublz.

Pomona police officers contacted Ibarra-Vega on Dec. 15 based on several leads related to a string of seven armed robberies in Pomona. According to detectives, information was received that the suspect was possibly linked to the Chino robberies. The information provided to Pomona police officers was the Chino police department’s Facebook post requesting assistance in identifying the suspect.

While in custody, Ibarra-Vega confessed to the Doublz robberies in Chino. Ibarra-Vega is in custody at a Los Angeles County jail facility on multiple robbery charges.

Epoh Sushi is Fresh and Affordable

Epoh Sushi is located at 5536 Philadelphia St., Suite D, Chino 91710, and can be reached at (909) 627-8862 or www.epohsushi.com.

Epoh Sushi is located at 5536 Philadelphia St., Suite D, Chino 91710, and can be reached at (909) 627-8862 or http://www.epohsushi.com.

By Michael Armijo

Chino – As a sushi connoisseur, I am very particular when it comes to sushi. I’ve had some bad experiences, so I was pleasantly surprised when a group of us went into Epoh Sushi in the Chino Town Center on Philadelphia near Central Ave.

“I recommended this place because of the freshness and the quality of the fish” said fellow connoisseur, Ben Cortes. “And the specials are great, especially the lunch specials.”

Since there was a group of us, we all ordered a dish and shared, so I was able to sample several items.

The albacore sushi was tender and fresh. It had a delicate flavor that you could savor. The soup, called Sukiyaki, was a smorgasbord of several kinds of fish that created a delicious blend of flavor that lit up your taste buds. The “half and half” chicken and beef bowl, which featured chunks of beef instead of the traditional shredded beef, boasted with tender and seasoned cuts that melted in your mouth. And the surprising part was the rice. I am not a “rice guy,” but it was flavorful and soft, but not mushy. I even took the leftover rice home, something I’ve never done with rice before.

One of my new, all time favorites has to be the Yellowtail Collar. It was baked, crispy on the bottom, and meaty. The Collar was just delicious.

They have daily lunch specials, and their dinner prices are reasonable as well. The lunch specials range from $7.95 to $9.95. From the sushi bar, specials run from $10.95 to $12. And the Rice Bowls run from $6.95 to $11. For dinner, the entrees and the specials start out at $16. For a complete menu with prices you can sign onto http://www.epohsushi.com.

They also have a unique program called a “”membership.” It costs nothing, all you do is fill out a card and supply your email. The membership includes a 10% off each visit discount and you get a free meal on your birthday! I signed up as my birthday is in January, so I’ll be celebrating it there!

I could go on and rave about the food but we all know price is always a factor. I used to believe “you get what you pay for” but Epoh Sushi gave me more for my dollar, and for my taste buds.

Epoh Sushi, 5536 Philadelphia St, Suite D, Chino, CA 91710, (909) 627-8862. www.epohsushi.com.  Open Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

 

El Niño Preparedness

Photo courtesy: Breitbart

Photo courtesy: Breitbart

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – It sounds ironic to talk about the dangers of El Niño causing massive flood damage as California is currently in the midst of a terrible drought; however Los Angeles County officials were adamant that residents should be prepared for an emergency as the weather gets colder and rainfall becomes more frequent.
Pamela J. Manning, from the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, and Jeanne O’Donnell, senior emergency program manager for the County of Los Angeles, gave a short presentation at the Dec. 14 Diamond Bar city council meeting to dispel rumors associated with El Niño and to offer tips to Diamond Bar residents during the winter season.
For example, Manning stated that most citizens believe that El Niño is a yearly, singular storm that brings in heavy rains and flooding- when in fact El Niño is a climate cycle that causes multiple storms over the course of several months. In Southern California, El Niño is expected to cause increased rainfall from February through May, giving residents ample time to prepare for the worst.
“I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve heard people say ‘when is THE El Niño going to hit?’, as though it were one big bucket rainstorm,” Manning said. “That’s not at all what it is. Believe it or not, it’s actually a condition that has been happening since March, which a lot of people don’t realize.”
Manning stated that the county’s flood control systems are checked and that when flooding occurs, rainfall causes mudslides or if there are any other hazardous problems, public works will work to mitigate accidents from occurring.
Residents were also asked to prepare sandbags and to report any dangers caused by storm activity, which could help avoid accidents or injuries.
Manning said that the county looks at “Possible Vulnerable Locations” (PVLs) in every city which can be affected by inclement weather. These areas are noted in order to ensure that when El Niño does arrive, proper precautions are made to ensure that residents are not affected by problems caused around PVLs.
Manning said that only one PVL exists in Diamond Bar, an access road to the Indian Creek sewer maintenance pump.
While Manning covered the county’s ongoing actions, O’Donnell spoke about how residents can be proactive, and that the Internet has been and will continue to be an invaluable tool to warn residents of any storm related dangers.
O’Donnell said the county has been preparing for El Niño for months and that public outreach is important. She mentioned that #LARAIN on Twitter and other social media is a fast and clever way to let the masses know that El Niño can be dangerous, which areas to avoid, and when and where residents can go to receive help during a storm.
O’Donnell mentioned that during El Niño, the county will be working with various cities, emergency responders and even the Red Cross in the event that problems and injuries do occur.
“We’re really working hard to reach out and bring those agencies in and have conversations so that when El Niño does start, it’s not a ‘he said that, she said this’ situation and instead people understand the threats and the risks.”
Both O’Donnell and Manning agreed that having an emergency kit with food, water, clothing, a first aid kit, and various other survival items is important during an emergency and that keeping connected and informed is what can save lives and circumvent problems during El Niño.

Helpful tips from Los Angeles County:

  • Monitor TVs and the radio for news
  • Be prepared to leave immediately if an evacuation has been ordered
  • Stay away from flooded channels and rivers
  • Do not try to cross flooded areas
  • Flood water picks up sewage and chemicals- throw away any food or medication that comes in contact with flood waters
  • Stay away from steep slopes- they become unstable during heavy rainfall
  • Never touch a downed power line
  • Look for tilted trees, telephone poles, fences, and walls on hillsides
  • If trapped in your vehicle- stay inside. If the water level rises, get on top of your car
  • Be alert when driving
  • Report small problems before they become big problems

 

As Manning and O’Donnell concluded their presentation, they said that additional information can be obtained at www.lacounty.gov/elnino and www.dpwcare.org.

Walnut High Named Grammy Signature School Semifinalist

Courtesy of WVUSD Walnut High School has been named a 2016 Grammy Signature School Semifinalist. The Home for the Holidays band and orchestra concert, under the direction of Corey Wicks and Dr. Buddy Clements/WVUSD

Courtesy of WVUSD
Walnut High School has been named a 2016 Grammy Signature School Semifinalist. The Home for the Holidays band and orchestra concert, under the direction of Corey Wicks and Dr. Buddy Clements/WVUSD

 By Kelli Gile

 

WALNUT -Walnut High School has garnered national recognition as a 2016 Grammy Signature School Semifinalist by the Grammy Foundation.

The Grammy Signature Schools program recognizes top U.S. public high schools that are making an outstanding commitment to music education during an academic school year.

A total of 119 schools around the country received the distinction.
“We are very proud of the work that Instrumental Music Directors Dr. Buddy Clements, Corey Wicks, and Choir Director Lisa Lopez do to support the arts at Walnut High,” said Principal Brandon Dade. “These outstanding music educators have gone above and beyond to develop a top-rate program!”

The Grammy Signature School program, created in 1998, recognizes top public high schools that are making an outstanding commitment to music education.

Finalists will be announced in mid-March. These schools will receive a custom award and $1,000-$6,000 grant benefit their music program.

The top programs are designated as Gold recipients, and the best of the Gold recipients is designated as the National Grammy Signature School.

The selection process for Grammy Signature Schools begins each year in August when the Grammy Foundation mails notification to more than 20,000 public high schools from districts large and small, urban, suburban and rural, requesting information about each school’s music program.

Applications are completed and submitted online in October. After the applications are scored, finalists are identified and asked to submit additional documentation, such as recordings of school concerts, sample concert programs and repertoire, which is then reviewed by an independent blue-ribbon committee of top music educators and professionals to determine the schools that merit Grammy Signature School status.

Socially Speaking

By Sarah Sanchez

Eastvale – The holiday season is flying by but don’t miss out on what’s happening in our community. To avoid missing out on current news, events, and happenings, make sure to follow us on our Facebook page (Facebook.com/EastvaleCommunityNews).
Last month, our trending posts included: a new Eastvale STEM academy in development at ERHS, an armed robbery suspect caught, an individual that was arrested for transporting marijuana for sales, and a reminder of Eastvale’s Curfew Ordinance. The community also showed their condolences on our Facebook page after a San Bernardino Police Officer and a Downey Police Officer were killed.
But our most popular post was a story announcing that Eastvale ranked No. 2 in the State for families. Many community members commented, liked, and shared our article to their family and friends.
Our Facebook page consists of articles, yard sales, meetings, and events on a daily basis. Every Thursday, we post local yard sales for the weekend and allow you to post your own yard sale in the comments. On Fridays, we post the weekend events and link it to our monthly calendar, which includes a variety of meetings and outings in the surrounding areas. We also post the online version of the full Eastvale Community Newspaper for you to download, save, or print out.
Don’t forget to LIKE our page at Facebook.com/EastvaleCommunityNews, follow us on Instagram at @EastvaleNews, and subscribe to our website at anapr.com in order to stay up to date on what’s happening in the community. Use #ILoveEastvaleNews to tell us why YOU love Eastvale News.
Keep on Trending, Eastvale!

 

Lawsuit Over Control of Ontario Airport Settled

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy of LA/ONT Airport Facebook L.A. City Council approves $250 million settlement agreement for Ontario International Airport Authority to take over ONT.

Photo Courtesy of LA/ONT Airport Facebook
L.A. City Council approves $250 million settlement agreement for Ontario International Airport Authority to take over ONT.

ONTARIO—The Los Angeles City Council approved last Wednesday the landmark settlement agreement that hands over the reins of LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT) to the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA).

In a closed-session meeting, the council unanimously settled the $250 million lawsuit brought by the city of Ontario in June 2013. In 1967, Ontario turned over airport operations to Los Angeles who then sold it in 1985.

“We are now one step closer to finalizing a historic settlement that will improve air travel throughout Southern California and benefit residents and airport employees in both Los Angeles and Ontario,” said L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti in a statement. Ontario will pay $30 million from its reserves, take over the airport’s $60 million debt and make payments of $50 million over five years and $70 million in the final five years, officials said.

The OIAA must now obtain a certificate to operate the airport from the Federal Aviation Administration, according to the report. The entire process, including FAA approval, is expected to be completed next year.
“We are committed to working closely with FAA officials and Los Angeles World Airports to ensure a smooth transition of airport control in the second half of 2016,” Wapner stated.

“The OIAA will take all steps to ensure that Southern California has the airport capacity needed to meet the long-term demand for air travel while boosting the Inland Empire’s most important economic and jobs engine,” Alan Wapner, Ontario councilman and president of the authority, said in a statement.
Deborah Flint, executive director of Los Angeles World Airports, in unison with the agreement ensures that ONT operations and jobs will not be affected by a lapse in airport operation.
“The agreement ensures uninterrupted operations at ONT by providing the 191 Los Angeles World Airports employees with key employee protections and stability during the transition,” she said in a statement.  “My staff is committed to working closely and cooperatively with the City of Ontario and the OIAA to allow for a smooth transfer.”

A Man Named Mark

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

The worst home improvement project is plumbing.  When you start a plumbing project in most homes, you can expect to go back to the store at least three times and often more.

Recently, my wife and I were in Arizona visiting her mother and working on some home improvement projects. One of the major projects I undertook was to change the valves on the water connections for the washing machine.  A main reason that plumbing projects are so frustrating is that you have to turn off the main water supply into the house before you can change out valves and other water supply outlets.  Once the water is off and old valves are removed, there is no turning back.  You are committed to finishing the job completely before you can turn the water back on.  There is no room for error or only doing the job halfway.  Once you start, you have to finish.   Inevitably, you run into a problem that you did not expect.  In my case, I was trying to replace the two valves that supply the hot and cold water to the washing machine.

On my first trip to the store, I bought two identical valves and they looked the same.  When I brought them home and tried to install them, one fit but the other one did not.  How could that be?  I went back to the home improvement store looking for help.  Although there were several people willing to help me, they all said I needed to talk to Mark.  He was an experienced plumber with a good name.  He was the one I should talk to.  It turned out that the man named Mark was rather shy and soft spoken, but I quickly discovered that he was both knowledgeable and helpful.  He agreed that my two valves were not the same.  One valve had “compression threads” and the other valve had standard “pipe threads”.  I knew pipes had threads, but I did not realize that there are different kinds of threads!

He said that I needed a transition connection that would enable both of the valves to fit the compression threads coming out of the wall.  No one else in the plumbing department could diagnose my problem, but Mark did.  With his help, some Teflon tape and a lot of pipe dope, I soon had the problem solved and the valves reassembled.  I could turn the water back on and life could return to normal.

I’m thankful that there are “Marks” in the world who can solve problems for us.  It’s great to have someone who is knowledgeable in their field to ask for help and advice.  I’m sure there is someone in your life who knows a lot about computers, car repair or baking cookies. You may have a skill or expertise that enables you to help others, too.  I hope that you will watch for an opportunity to help others like Mark helped me.  And, I hope you will say “Thanks” to the people who have stepped in to help you solve a mystery or problem in your life.

I not only said thanks to Mark, but I also sent an email to his boss to express my appreciation for Mark’s help and guidance in solving my problem.   I hope my brief note will result in some recognition or reward for my new hero named Mark.

 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.

Identity Theft in Chino Hills

Chino Hills Arrest Card Fraud 3

Photo courtesy: SBCS-Chino Hills

Over 80 Victims in 4 Counties
Staff Reports

 
Chino Hills – Officers arrested a Diamond Bar man on suspicion of identity theft, manufacturing or altering credit cards, and possession of credit card manufacturing equipment Dec. 2, Chino Hills’ sheriff officials said.

Chino Hills’ sheriff deputies discovered that Michael David Soriano, 35, had unlawfully obtained the identity, email, and credit card information from a Chino Hills resident, which he used at the Chino Hills Buffalo Wild Wings. Deputies traced the fraudulent activity to Soriano, and a search warrant was issued. Deputies confiscated several devices to manufacture and alter credit cards. Soriano was in possession of over 80 fraudulent credit cards. Additionally, deputies located numerous names, addresses, and credit card numbers that belonged to victims in San Bernardino, Orange, Los Angeles, and San Diego Counties. Numerous victims in those counties were contacted by deputies, who were not aware their personal information had been unlawfully obtained and used. Soriano was arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center.

 

 

Walnut Council Round Up

By Natalie Kim

WALNUT– The Dec. 9 Walnut City Council meeting began with a presentation concerning the upcoming El Niño season and how to properly prepare for it. Some safety preparedness tips that were discussed include creating survival kits for each member of your family, and awareness of the dangers of water, mud, and debris on the streets, as well as downed trees or power lines. More information concerning El Niño preparedness can be found at www.lacounty.gov/elnino.

The 2015 Family Festival Volunteer Committee was recognized for all of their efforts in putting together the Walnut Family Fun Festival. The Council applauded their hard work, which began months in advance of the festival itself, and thanked the Committee for creating one of the most successful events in Walnut.

Next, the “Robo Heroes”, a group of students from Suzanne Middle School, announced the results of their recycling project. By placing a large recycling bin, or “Hero Bin,” next to a smaller trash can, recycling increased by 19 percent.   The Hero Bin made recycling more convenient and included informational graphics which increased understanding of what should be recycled and what should not.

The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including the minutes from the Nov. 10 Council meeting; a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $1,572,390.19; a request by Valley Vista Services for a rate adjustment for CPI increase; a part-time salary schedule change; a resolution amending a resolution regarding payment of salaries, sick leave, vacations, leave of absences and other regulations by revising general authorized positions/salary schedule; a contract extension for the city manager; an appropriation request for Richards, Watson & Gershon to perform special legal services for the City; an award of bid to HdL for business license processing; a request for the Rotary Club of Walnut Valley to conduct a 5k/10k Fun Run on March 5, 2016; a recommendation by Walnut Senior Commission to amend the Senior Center use policy; a request for appropriation of $2,850.41 from the general fund to be reimbursed by Foothill Transit for bus stop enhancements; a request for appropriation of $44,000 for storm drain and tree maintenance contracted services; El Niño preparation; an alcoholic beverage license application for HJH Sauce Simmer Pot; an alcoholic license application for Liquor Station; and sport group requests for Biannual Field Use for Spring 2016, including use of Butterfield Park from Feb. 1-July 31, 2016, use of Creekside Park on Jan. 9, 16 & 19 for tryouts and from Feb. 1-May 23, 2016; use of Snow Creek Park from Feb. 29-May 23,  2016; use of Suzanne Park on Jan. 23, and from Feb. 1-July 16 with the exception of July 1-6, and Feb. 1-June 30; use of Walnut Ranch Park from Feb. 1-June 4, and the use of Walnut Ranch Park on Sundays.

The comprehensive annual financial report for the period ended June 30, 2015 concluded that the city funds were still a healthy size, and that no major issues were found.

Before the meeting adjourned, Mayor Pacheco announced a Winter Wonderland event on Dec. 12, from 6-9 p.m. at the parking lot near the Walnut Senior Center. Councilmember Cartagena also announced a ribbon cutting event at Creekside Park for the fitness equipment on Dec. 14 from 9-11 a.m. Breakfast will be available for the first 100 people that attend. The meeting adjourned with plans to meet again on Jan. 13, 2016, at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Rd.

Hagman Hosts Jolly Open House

Chino Hills HagmanStaffatXMAS open house by FB.jpg

Photo courtesy: Hagman’s office

By Monique Valadez

Chino Hills – San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman welcomed friends around the community to his annual Christmas open house Dec. 10 at the Chino Hills City Hall lobby. More than 70 people including Santa Claus turned up for the festive affair decked out with carolers from Diamond Ranch High School, sweet treats and tacos.

Among the participants were local city officials, public safety personnel, representatives from Pomona’s Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez’s and Chino’s Senator Connie Leyva’s office and constituents from across San Bernardino County.

Hagman addressed the attendees, reaffirming his support for the lives lost in the horrific shooting in San Bernardino.

“It’s going to be a long healing process but together we are strong and will overcome this tragedy,” Hagman said.

“It was encouraging to see our community come together and support one another while remembering the season of hope.”

 

Flags For The Fallen

Photo courtesy of WOLFF

Photo courtesy of WOLFF

Courtesy of the Wives of Law Enforcement and Firefighters

Eastvale – On January 8, 2016, at 10:30am, the Wives of Law Enforcement and Firefighters will hold their 2nd annual “Flags for the Fallen” event in the City of Eastvale, California.

This event honors police officers and firefighters who have sacrificed all and died on duty.  Law enforcement officers, firefighters, community leaders and residents will gather and place an American flag in front of Eastvale Fire Station #27, located at 7067 Hamner Avenue in Eastvale. Last year’s event attracted many participants and we expect a larger turn out this year.

In light of the recent tragedy in the City of San Bernardino, we are also honoring the 14 innocent civilians that were taken by terrorists. We will be placing 14 American flags in their honor.

We invite residents to join us in placing these American flags. Please check our Facebook page and website, eastvalewolff.com for updated information. We hope to bring communities together and bring awareness to a worthy cause. Also, a special thanks to Eastvale and surrounding communities for their support of our fallen heroes.
For additional information, please contact eastvalewolff@gmail.com

Collegewood Cares for Coben

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Collegewood Elementary is collecting donations for the family of second grade cancer patient Coben Swanson.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Collegewood Elementary is collecting donations for the family of second grade cancer patient Coben Swanson.

School looks to help 2nd grade cancer patient

By Kelli Gile 

Walnut – Three weeks ago, Collegewood Elementary second grader Coben Swanson was happy and healthy, playing with friends on the playground and getting ready to take a math test with classmates.

When persistent stomach pains sidelined him from school, he was taken to the doctor. The startling diagnosis was T-cell leukemia.

He is now fighting for his life and dealing with the side effects of chemotherapy. The seven-year-old is being cared for in the intensive care unit at Children’s Hospital of Orange County.

Coben’s school family learned of the situation through a letter from the school on Friday.

“The outpouring of love and support has been overwhelming,” said Principal Joan Perez.

The Walnut children and teachers immediately decided to send a Star Wars-themed video “get well card” for their friend, sharing personal messages in front of a “May the Force be With You” banner.
“We want to make sure that Coben knows that his friends are thinking and praying for him,” Perez added.

To show his support, fourth grade student Jordan Hernandez wore a “Friends don’t let friends battle alone” t-shirt while recording his message.

His second grade classmates and teacher Elvonne Vance sang two class songs for their friend during the videotaping.

“Coben is my hero,” Vance said.  “He is a student leader, he loves to help others, and he never gives up.”

The school hosted its annual Week of Giving from December 7-11. They collected ____ to support the Swanson family.

Anyone wishing to contribute may send a check payable to the Collegewood Community Club at 20725 Collegewood Drive, Walnut, CA 91789.

Big Rigs Causing Big Headaches for Some Residents

By Emily Aguilar

Ontario/Eastvale – For the past few months, Ontario and Eastvale neighborhoods have had to deal with the disruptive presence of Jauregui Trucking semi-trucks passing through Sumner and Bellgrave.

The disruption has ruined the calm serenity of the neighborhood to the point where some citizens have expressed that they need ear plugs to silence the trucks bothersome work (which starts as early as 4 in the morning). Worst of all, this trucking operation is allegedly illegal.

As a result of Edison and Haven being closed off, the trucks have no choice but to drive through Sumner to Limonite or Bellgrave to Hamner. The trucks do not have a permit to drive through the area; there is even a sign erected on Hamner that specifically prohibits trucks from passing through, but it has not been enough to stop them.

Luckily, Kenneth Cheung and Kyle Vander Hill have initiated a plan to bring an end to the trucking.

Through various meetings and emails, the men have attempted to find a solution to the problem. After filing a complaint to the Code Enforcement in Ontario, speaking to Eastvale city council officials, and exchanging emails with Donna McKnight in Ontario and Joe Indrawan of Eastvale, the men were met with little change. Donna McKnight issued a Stop Notice to Jauregui Trucking. Cheung has also ordered signs to be set up in order to guide trucks where they should and should not drive. However, according to them, nothing has come of the matter.

To make matters more difficult, Motor Officer Scott Forbes looked into the legality of issuing tickets to the truck drivers and stated that the trucks might have a right to drive through Bellgrave. Of course, this only to some extent; they are not permitted to drive through the trucking yard.

Both men, as well as their neighbors, believe the truckers have failed to show respect in the situation, and are “getting away” with the fact that they know they “can’t be touched by the police.”

While the matter is frustrating, the men are nevertheless determined to restore peace in their neighborhood. At present, Cheung is looking forward to speaking to McKnight and Indrawan in order to set up necessary signs for the semi-trucks.

 

Chino’s Welcomes Christmas at Annual Parade

Photo by: Monique Valadez Chino High School Marching Band brings holiday cheer to Chino's Youth Christmas Parade.

Photo by: Monique Valadez
Chino High School Marching Band brings holiday cheer to Chino’s Youth Christmas Parade.

By Monique Valadez

 

CHINO – Thousands of early risers lined the city streets to celebrate the official arrival of Christmas in Chino with the annual youth Christmas parade Saturday, complete with school marching bands, hot rods carrying elected officials, decked-out floats and Santa Claus. More than 90 floats and hundreds of festive walkers and troops joined in the annual “A Christmas in Toyland” themed parade, which travels from along Riverside Drive and then right on Central Avenue to end at City Hall.

Local youth sports volunteer Dawn Jerry served as this year’s grand marshal and was recognized by the city council as the 2015 Chino Sports Legends Award recipient earlier this month.

“I’ve walked and participated in Chino’s parade for many years and now to be honored at the parade is the cherry on top,” Jerry said. “I have had the honor and privilege to coach a lot of kids in Chino.”

“It’s people like Dawn that make Chino so special and unique,” said Mayor Dennis Yates. “Her tireless work with our kids solidifies why Chino has received the “100 Best Communities for Young People” multiple times.”

Also in the parade were representatives from the church community, including Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.
“We felt it was important for us to join in the parade since our church was one of the first churches in Chino. The parade just brings the whole community together,” Rev. Edmund Gomez of Chino’s Our Lady of Guadalupe Church said. “It’s a longstanding tradition in Chino even the church community participates in the parade.”

Photo by: Monique Valadez Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez cruises in a Ford Model T at Chino's Christmas Parade.

Photo by: Monique Valadez
Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez cruises in a Ford Model T at Chino’s Christmas Parade.

Rounding out the field of entries were units and representatives from dance schools and activity centers, local businesses, nonprofits, civic groups and community organizations.

Politicians, including Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez, San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman and Senator Connie Leyva, cruised in the parade as well.

“It’s a good way to spread good cheer throughout the community,” said Pomona’s Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez, as he hopped inside the vintage Ford car to roll down the parade route.

The parade was followed by the annual craft fair at the city’s civic center plaza. The fair included carnival rides, community performances, a vendor area, food, children activities and of course, a special visit from Santa.

Photo By: Monique Valadez Ben Midlik and Adam Valadez from Pack #205 get ready to march.

Photo By: Monique Valadez
Ben Midlik and Adam Valadez from Pack #205 get ready to march.

Countywide Homeless Count Coming January 2016

Staff Reports

 

RIVERSIDE COUNTY – The Riverside County 2016 Point-in-Time Homeless Count and Subpopulation Survey will be conducted countywide on Tuesday, Jan. 26, 2016. Community planning and organizing activities began in September 2015.

The Point-in-Time Homeless Count and Subpopulation Survey will be conducted on the streets, and at residential and non-residential service locations in every city and unincorporated area in Riverside County.

On the day-of-the-count, teams of local volunteers, service providers and others will visit pre-identified locations and use a count/subpopulation survey instrument to record required information collected from each homeless individual encountered. Volunteers including representatives of local government, social service providers, law enforcement, municipal agencies, educational institutions, faith-based organizations, local business, civic groups, neighborhood associations, nonprofit agencies, and current and formerly homeless individuals will be assisting the Riverside County Department of Public Social Services to help identify anyone who is homeless.

In addition to gathering information necessary for the survey, deputies, city, and county staff will work on providing resource and aid information to the homeless. There are additional benefits and programs available to our homeless veterans, whom we will also work on locating and identifying. Though this program is conducted annually, the Norco Sheriff’s Office continues to work with the local homeless population year round, in an attempt to provide them with resources and aid.

The Point-In-Time (PIT) Homeless Count is a count and survey of Riverside County’s sheltered and unsheltered homeless population. Riverside County’s Department of Public Social Services (DPSS), in partnership with Riverside County’s Continuum of Care, is required to conduct this biannual count in late January. The Continuum of Care (CoC) is a network of private- and public sector homeless service providers, designed to promote community-wide planning and the strategic use of resources to address homelessness.

What is the Riverside County Point-in-Time Homeless Count? The Point-in-Time Homeless Count and Subpopulation Survey is a one-day street-based and service-based count and subpopulation survey of sheltered and unsheltered individuals to identify how many people in Riverside County are homeless and their subpopulation characteristics on a given day.

How can I learn more about the Point-in-Time Homeless Count? For more information about the Point-in-Time Homeless Count and Subpopulation Survey please send an email to RivCoPIT@RiversideDPSS.org or call (951) 358-3384.