Category Archives: News By City

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

 

DIAMOND BAR – The Nov. 17 Diamond Bar City Council meeting began by presenting a City Tile to the former Traffic and Transportation Commissioner Ted Carrera, in recognition of his excellent services rendered to the City. Retiring Council member Jack Tanaka was also recognized for his hard work over the past 10 years on the Council. Tanaka was honored not only by the Council, but also by several others, including State Assemblywoman Ling Ling Chang and several representatives from the City Councils of several different Cities. Tanaka himself stated that it was “a privilege and an honor” to serve the residents of Diamond Bar.

Following the several recognitions for Tanaka, the City Manager reports and comments were discussed where James DeStefano thanked the patience of Diamond Bar residents and business owners concerning the construction on Grand Avenue over the past several weekends.

During the public comments, a representative from Diamond Bar Youth for Action and Stop At Hunger announced Stop At Hunger’s third annual holiday food drive, beginning on Nov. 17 and ending on Dec. 17. Residents are encouraged to bring nonperishable goods to the Diamond Bar Center, Diamond Bar City Hall, Diamond Bar Library, and Heritage Park Community Center. A representative from the Diamond Bar Public Library announced several upcoming events, including Michael Rayner’s Comedy and Juggling Show on Nov. 19, from 4 to 4:45 p.m.; a Girl’s Only Party on Nov. 21 from 2 to 3:30 p.m.; Baby and Toddler Storytime on Nov. 24 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m.; and a fun parents and children workshop on Nov. 25 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. Concluding the public comments was a representative from Waste Management, who presented the City a check rewarding the City for paint recycling.

After public comments were closed, the schedule of future of events was read, which included the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Nov. 19 at 7 p.m.; the Planning Commission meeting on Nov. 24 at 7 p.m.; on Nov. 26-27, City Offices will be closed in observance of Thanksgiving, and will reopen on Nov. 30; from Nov. 27-Jan. 1, Holiday Diamond Ride will be operational, and will shuttle residents 18 years or older to and from the Diamond Bar Shopping Centers; the next City Council meeting is on Dec. 1 at 6:30; the Candy Cane Craft Fair will be on Dec. 5, starting at 9 a.m. at 21810 Copley Dr.; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Dec. 10 at 7 p.m.; and the last City Council meeting of the year will occur on Dec. 15 at 6:30 p.m.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar including minutes from the Nov. 3 City Council meeting; minutes from the Oct. 13 Planning Commission meeting; ratification of a check register totalling $1,523,335.31; transmittal of comprehensive annual financial report for the year ended June 30, 2015; and a resolution approving the application for grant funds from the Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District for the fourth supervisorial district 1996 Safe Neighborhood Parks Proposition funding for Stardust Mini Park ADA retrofit and approving the adoption of a Youth Employment Plan.

Following a public hearing, the Council adopted a resolution confirming a cost report for nuisance abatement costs concerning 783 Bowcreek Drive and establishing a special assessment and lien thereof.

After Council reports and comments, the Council adjourned with plans to meet again on Dec. 1 at 6:30 p.m. at 21810 Copley Dr.

Battle Continues in Mt. SAC’s Solar Project

Staff Reports

WALNUT-Walnut has been the epicenter of a fight between the city and Mt. San Antonio College’s proposed Photovoltaic Solar System project. City officials and some residents say the project would be an eyesore and increase traffic in the city. Mt. SAC says it will save the campus’ thousands of dollars in energy costs.

According to the city officials, Mt. SAC is required to obtain a Conditional Use Permit (CUP) for the proposed project. In the Oct. 28 staff report, Mt. SAC officials note that the school “will not be requesting a CUP for the said project.”

City staff contacted the California Energy Commission and the California Public Utilities Commission for support. But both State agencies indicated that they are exempt from local zoning due to the type of project.

Residents are also joining the city’s forces to fight off the project. During the Oct. 28 council meeting, several residents expressed concern over the aesthetics and increased traffic on the intersection of Grand and Temple, and the Council agreed that action was necessary against the project.

The outcry of residents moved the Council to figure out how to cease construction of the proposed solar project.

In October, the city approved bringing in legal help. The city agreed to hire Leibold McClendon & Mann to help them fight Mt. SAC’s proposed project. The city’s new legal team will review and analyze Proposition 39 and government codes.

With construction planned in late spring/early summer of 2016, City officials are not backing down. “Walnut fully intends to enforce City Zoning Code regulations, City General Plan guidelines and State and Land Use law as it pertains to any proposed development at Mt. SAC,” city staff reports state.

“The City Council remains committed to safeguard the health, safety, and general welfare of the community at large,” city officials added.

Kindergartners Enjoy Thanksgiving Feast

Photo courtesy: WVUSD Evergreen’s youngest students dug into a delicious Thanksgiving feast on Nov. 20 in Diamond Bar.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Evergreen’s youngest students dug into a delicious Thanksgiving feast on Nov. 20 in Diamond Bar.

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR – Evergreen Elementary Transitional Kindergarteners and kindergarteners enjoyed a traditional Thanksgiving feast on Nov. 20. The youngsters wore pilgrim and Native American paper hats as they sampled corn bread, potatoes, cranberry, and pumpkin pie.

“As we feast together, I want you to think of how grateful and how fortunate you are to have this feast!” said teacher Mona Warren.

About 20 parent volunteers were on hand to setting up and serving at the special event.

 

91 Grand Boulevard Ramps to Close Permanently

Courtesy of RCTC 91 Project 91 Freeway Grand Avenue Closure Map

Courtesy of RCTC 91 Project
91 Freeway Grand Avenue Closure Map

Staff Reports

CORONA-As part of the Riverside County Transportation Commission’s 91 Project, the eastbound 91 Grand Boulevard off-ramp and westbound 91 Grand Boulevard on-ramp will close permanently in December. To prepare for these ramp closures, other improvements are scheduled for this area. The following schedule is anticipated, but dates are subject to change (Please see map graphic below):

  • Monday, December 7, 2015: Second Street extension between Lincoln Avenue and W Grand Boulevard to open
  • Monday, December 14, 2015: Restore Lincoln Avenue turn lanes between D Street and the 91
  • Monday, December 14, 2015: Westbound 91 Grand Boulevard on-ramp closes permanently

In preparation for the closure of the westbound 91 Grand Avenue on-ramp, capacity improvements were made to the westbound 91 Main Street on-ramp by adding a third lane.

Also, the extension of Second Street between Lincoln Avenue and W Grand Boulevard will provide motorists an additional east/west route.

Information contained in this Notice is subject to change based on weather, field conditions or other operational factors.

Chino One of America’s 50 Best

Photo courtesy: City of Chino

Photo courtesy: City of Chino

Staff Reports

CHINO – Chino is one of only two Southern California cities listed in America’s 50 best cities to live in, according to a study released by 24/7 Wall Street, a financial news and opinion operation.
The city of just over 84,700 people landed at No. 26 on the list. Temecula, just south of Chino, was listed at No. 31.
“For years, the City Council and I were proud of being distinguished as one of the 100 Best Communities for Young People and now we are just as proud to be distinguished as one of America’s Best Cities to Live,” Mayor Dennis Yates said. “These accolades are a true testament to the wonderful community we have in Chino. The residents, businesses, organizations, they really do take care of each other and strive to be the best.”
According to 24/7 Wall Street, they reviewed data on 500 U.S. cities areas with populations of 65,000 or more and factored in a wide range of variables to compile the list, including crime rates, employment growth, access to restaurants and attractions, educational attainment and housing affordability.
Chino received high marks for its low poverty rate, one of the lowest rates in the country. The city also scored well for its employment growth.
The site said, “Chino has one of the fastest-growing economies in the country, with a 6.3 percent employment growth between 2012 and 2014. The city also has a poverty rate of 9.4 percent, much lower than the national rate of 15.5 percent.”

Holiday Feast at Mandarin Taste

See their ad in this issue of the Weekly News for coupons and specials. For more information, call (909) 861-1819 or just stop by their location at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar.

Mandarin Taste is located at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar. For reservations, call (909) 861-1819. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

By Monique Valadez

Diamond Bar – This holiday season, give yourself the gift of kitchen-free days and let Mandarin Taste prepare a delectable holiday feast that will have dashing over for seconds. Known for its delicious, authentic Chinese cuisine, Mandarin Taste has brought quality service and traditional Chinese cuisine to Diamond Bar for over 30 years.

Make Mandarin Taste an enjoyable holiday tradition! The restaurant has thrived because of the many mouth-watering dishes it serves and the family-friendly atmosphere that keeps people coming back for more. Skip slaving over the stove all day and cleaning up after a house full of guests. Mandarin Taste hopes to make the holiday season less stressful and more enjoyable for you while you feast and share memories with your loved ones.

From Peking duck and Hunan lamb to customers-favorite pork fried rice, wonton soup and orange-flavored chicken, Mandarin Taste offers an abundance of tasty food options to satisfy every palate.

The restaurant’s owners and staff want everyone who comes to their establishment to relax and enjoy themselves over the delectable food.

“We’re like a family restaurant,” said restaurant manager Chi Young, when describing the feeling that customers get when visiting the long lasting eatery.

“People are always smiling [here],” said Young.

The restaurant holds a very popular champagne brunch on Sundays and has all-you-can-eat buffets, as well.

Mandarin Taste also serves traditional and specialty cocktails. Join them during Happy Hour, held Monday through Friday, 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. If customers can’t come in to enjoy the pleasant ambience, they have the option to order food for carryout. Share the love and give your family and friends Mandarin Taste gift certificates, available year round!

For more information, please call (909) 861-1819, or just stop by their location at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar.

 

Check, Please! Diamond Bar’s Bob’s Big Boy Closed

Photo by Monique Valadez Bob’s Big Boy in Diamond Bar shuts down after 35 years. Franchise owner James Tsai and staff waited for customers Thursday afternoon to bear the bad news.

Photo by Monique Valadez
Bob’s Big Boy in Diamond Bar shuts down after 35 years. Franchise owner James Tsai and staff waited for customers Thursday afternoon to bear the bad news.

Restaurant closes its doors this week
By Monique Valadez

Diamond Bar – After 35 years, Bob’s Big Boy in Diamond Bar is closed for business. Facing rising costs, expensive rehab and landlord disputes, restaurant owner James Tsai swallowed hard and announced that the place he’d owned since 1992 would shut its doors this week.

“We tried all we could to keep our doors open,” Tsai said.”We came to a point where we needed to end this land fighting. But ultimately it became an unfair fight where the landowner won.”

Tsai said he tried negotiating with the building’s landlord over the remaining years on the Bob’s Big Boy lease.

ANAPR was unable to reach the restaurant’s land owners, Garden Grove-based Lakeview Village, Corp.

The diner-style eatery, featuring a long, curved counter with wooden bar stools and small booths scattered throughout the dining room, went through a number of chefs, general managers and culinary styles as the owner repeatedly worked to capture an audience in the ever-changing demographics of the city, located on a busy intersection on Golden Springs Road and the 60 and 57 freeway.

“There are three reasons that changed our minds in closing our doors,” Tsai said.”First, there was spike in rent. Then, demographics had changing, and the last, the 57/60 freeway construction has already started and has moved a lot of businesses in the area.”

“Diamond Bar has always been good to us. The city council has also supported us but there was nothing they could do because of the landowners,” Tsai added.

The restaurant attempted a historical landmark petition campaign back in 2012, but failed to reach the 20,000 required signatures, Tsai said. The building first opened in 1979, and is 15-years young to be considered for the national historical landmark status, he said.

Photo by Monique Valadez

Photo by Monique Valadez

Now only two Bob’s Big Boy locations remain in California – Norco and Burbank.

Though it was no secret that business wasn’t exactly booming. It was also in dire need of costly repairs, according to customers and employees.

For the restaurant employees, the news hit hard. On Thursday afternoon, as if attending a vigil, three of the restaurant’s employees – Gloria Shepherd, Michelle Witt and Marcos Botello – and Tsai, were sitting on the barstools along the famed curved counter signing business cards with discount offers to present to customers as they walked up to the closed restaurant.

“It’s been sort of like a wake since the news broke,” waitress Michelle Witt said recently, seated in the restaurant’s barstool. “It was a punch to the heart, is what it was.”

At the counter of the restaurant, Gloria E. Shepherd, who has been with the restaurant roughly 22 years, recalled her longtime customers and fond memories.

“All four of my grandchildren have birth photos with their grandmother in a Bob’s Big Boy work shirt,” Shepherd said. “It’s just sad and I’m going to miss my customers that I couldn’t even tell we are closed. Hopefully, they will follow us over to Norco.”

Witt, who has worked as a waitress for five years at Bob’s, said that she is deeply saddened by the closure and most importantly will miss about having to shut down more for the longtime customers they’ve considered family but is ready to bring her friendly service to Norco’s Bob’s Big Boy.

“Between just our staff and customers, this was family,” Witt said. “This is a place where memories were made. Many people will tell us this is where they had our first date or the place where customers came after a football game. We’ve established traditions and family here. And now, it’s all gone!”

Tsai said he did all he could to keep the restaurant doors open but the landlord was very difficult to work with.

With nearly 45 employees, Tsai said he was able to get most of his staff transferred to the Bob’s Big Boy in Norco.

“About 65 percent of staff all got transferred over to the Norco restaurant,” Tsai said. “We tried taking care of all our staff. Some already had other jobs and others were unable to transfer due to the distance.”

“The Norco restaurant was very welcoming and have already started training us a new computer system,” Shepherd said. “Norco is actually closer to my Ontario home. I’m just not sure what the traffic commute or shift I will have but I’ll see what the future holds.”

With tears in her eyes and a shaky voice, “We’ll be here until we can to let the customers know we are closed.”

Shepherd, Witt and Botello have remained loyal to the bitter end. They say they’re taking shifts at the restaurant to personally inform customers of the closure. They start their new jobs Dec. 1 at the Norco restaurant.

“Looks like we’re trading in our aprons for cowboy boots and a hat,” Witt laughed.

Inland Empire: Street Closure in Corona

By Eliza Echevarria Perez

CORONA – As part of the Riverside County Transportation Commission’s 91 Project in Corona, Buena Vista Avenue at the 91 undercrossing will close from 6 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 20 until Dec. 2 to lower the roadway.

There will be no pedestrian access during this closure. Motorists and pedestrians can use West Grand Boulevard or Lincoln Avenue as alternate routes. Local residential and business access to Buena Vista Avenue will be available from Railroad Street north of the 91 and from Sixth Street south of the 91.

The closure dates were coordinated with the Corona Norco Unified School District. Students are on Thanksgiving vacation for much of this closure time.

The 91 Project is adding regular lanes, tolled express lanes, auxiliary lanes and direct express connectors from the northbound 15 to the westbound 91 and from the eastbound 91 to the southbound 15. Improvements to interchanges, ramps, lanes and surface streets also will be made along the 91 between the Riverside County/Orange County Line in Corona and Pierce Street in Riverside. The new lanes are expected to open in 2017.

For more information, visit sr91project.info or call the helpline at 877-770-9191.

Under 18 – Bicycle Helmets are the Law!

Bicycle Helmet Safety
Courtesy of City of Eastvale

Parents: Did you know? More children ages 5 to 14 are seen in emergency rooms for injuries related to biking than any other sport.
Some bike crashes can cause serious injuries and most are related to the behavior of the bicyclist or the motorist. There are a number of things you can do to prevent a crash, and protect your brain should a crash occur.

Drivers:
  • ‘Share the road’ with bicyclists.
  • Be courteous; California law now mandates at least three feet of clearance when passing a bike rider.
  • Look for cyclists before opening a car door or pulling out from a parking space.
  • Yield to cyclists at intersections and as directed by signs and signals.
  • Be especially watchful for riders when making turns, either left or right.

Bicyclists:

  • Wear properly fitted bicycle helmets every time you ride. It’s the law if under 18 years of age.
  • Helmets should be properly worn and strapped despite the ride distance, even on a skateboard.
  • A helmet is the single most effective way to prevent head injury resulting from a bicycle crash.
  • Riders are considered vehicle operators; you are required to obey the same rules of the road as other vehicle operators, including obeying traffic signs, signals, and lane markings.
  • When cycling in the street, cyclists must ride in the same direction as traffic.
  • Bicyclists should increase their visibility to drivers by wearing fluorescent or brightly colored clothing during the day, and at dawn and dusk.
  • To be noticed when riding at night, the law requires a front light and a red reflector to the rear.
  • For additional safety, use a flashing rear light, and use retro-reflective tape or markings on equipment or clothing.

Cleaning The Garage

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

Spring cleaning usually happens in March or April. But, it happened at our house in the middle of November! Maybe we should call it “fall” cleaning?

There are several lessons that I learned while we were cleaning out the garage. The first lesson was that you have to start! My wife and I had talked about cleaning the garage many times, but this time we finally did it. Sometimes the hardest part of any job is getting started!

Another lesson I learned was that we tend to keep things we really don’t need any more.

As we cleared off some shelves and reorganized some different things, we both asked each other, “Do you know why we have saved this?” Sometimes we even asked, “Do you know what this is or what it belongs to?”

At the same time, I was glad to find some things that we had saved and I had not been able to find. There were several tools and other items that we discovered hidden behind boxes or covered up by other stuff. Nice to find some things that we thought were lost.

I think any cleaning project goes better if you do them with other people. It is harder to get motivated when you are working alone. There is something about working together with other people that keeps you going.  And, the conversation makes it more fun, too.

One slogan that we have used is, “When in doubt…throw it out”. My wife said, “Sometimes, you just have to let it go”.  It can be hard to throw some things away, but sometimes we have to make the tough decisions. And, some things can be recycled, too.

This may not be the time of year for “spring cleaning” but it might just be the right time for you to tackle a cluttered closet or maybe even the two-car garage. Find a friend and get started. You will be glad you did!

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

Total Care Heating and Air

TotalCare-Logo-WEB“Building Friendships one home at a time”

Staff Reports

CORONA-Don’t wait until the cold arrives to make sure your heating system is working properly. Let the professionals at Total Care Heating & Air help you get your heating system in tip-top shape before winter so you can stay warm, cozy and safe this heating season.

Total Care Heating & Air is a company with a family tradition dating back to 1940. Customers will have peace of mind knowing that Total Care is in the business of providing honest and high-quality service.

President Tim Burk emphasizes that Total Care Heating & Air is a four-generation family-owned and operated business located in Corona.

“We’re proud to carry on my family legacy” Burk said. “You have my promise that we will continue to demonstrate the highest levels of honesty, integrity and customer satisfaction in everything we do.”

Right now, Total Care is offering customers a Furnace Safety Check and Tune Up for only $59 –regularly $139 – until Dec. 31, 2015.

This cold weather season is also a great time to check your vent covers? A dirty filter causes your furnace to have to work like a beast eating up fuel and money. Having your furnace cleaned and inspected by an experienced Total Care Heating & Air professional before the start of the season can ensure that your unit is running efficiently, and will catch any potential problems while they are still easy and affordable to fix.

“Let us help you tackle the “beast” living in your home,” Burk brother and Vice President Eric Felty encourages homeowners. “Nine out of 10 system failures are caused by dirt and dust. We can help clean your system and help you save on your monthly heating bills.”

Contact Total Care Heating & Air to learn about their duct cleaning service and how they can help lower your monthly heating and cooling bills. Check out their $99-off coupon for duct cleaning featured on page 15 of the Eastvale News.

Schedule a fall maintenance call. Ask about their lifetime electrostatic filters, ultra-violet lights and air scrubbers. Total Care also offers special discounts for military, law enforcement and first responders.

With convenient service across the Inland Empire and Orange County, Total Care Heating & Air provides prompt and courteous service 6 days, a week and emergency service on Sundays. They have extensive experience and knowledge to CARE for all your heating, air conditioning and plumbing needs, and have worked on every make and model in the market. With over 29 years in this business, there is no job too small or big.

Whether it is a new installation or repairing existing equipment “You Called the Right AC Guys”. Call today for an estimate! They know your time is very valuable, and that is why they try very hard to keep it simple for you. They are TOTALLY affordable and efficient. Call, 951-808-8804, or visit them on the web at www.TotalCareHvac.com. See their ad on page 15 of the Eastvale News.

Walnut City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

WALNUT – Mayor Pacheco called to order the Nov. 10 Walnut City Council meeting, held on a Tuesday as opposed to the usual Wednesday to recognize Veterans Day. First in the public comments were the Robotastic Kids, a group of Collegewood Elementary School students who presented a plan to raise awareness about household battery recycling. Their plan includes leading battery recycling drives at school, and calling for the implementation of automated battery recycling stations and placing CRV on batteries. Multiple residents also expressed their support for the Council in a lawsuit against Verizon concerning Verizon’s ability to place another cell tower at 555 Gartel Dr.

Following the public comments, the Council approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including minutes from the Oct. 14 City Council meeting; minutes from the Oct. 22 Special Meeting; minutes from the Oct. 28 City Council/WHA minutes; a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $480,847.13; a resolution calling and giving notice of holding a general municipal election on April 12, 2016; a resolution requesting the Board of Supervisors of the County of Los Angeles to reader specific services to conduct the general municipal election of April 12, 2016; a resolution adopting regulations for candidates for elective office pertaining to candidate statements for the general municipal election on April 12, 2016; a resolution opting out of the Los Angeles Regional Interoperable Communications System Joint Powers Agreement and the City’s membership in the LA-RICS Authority; and a request by Girl Scouts of Greater Los Angeles for a non-profit solicitation permit and waiver of business license tax.

After Council comments and updates, the meeting adjourned with plans to meet again on Dec. 9, at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Rd.

Overcoming Burdens

Pastor Robert Jewett

Pastor Robert Jewett

By Pastor Robert Jewett

“Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved.” -Psalm 55:22
Nobody likes to have burdens but they are a common part of life. Some people hold to a false belief that once they respond to God’s love by abiding in Christ, they will no longer have burdens. This is not a Biblical view and will only lead to defeat and disillusionment in that person’s life. Scripture not only tells us that we will have burdens. It also tells us how to endure, deal with, and overcome all burdens that life will bring.

Burdens come in all sorts. They may be physical, relational, financial, etc. What is a burden in my life may, or may not, be a burden in your life. What is common in our burdens, however, is that God can use all of them to draw us closer to him. Paul expressed how he, along with Timothy, were utterly burdened with afflictions so severely that they despaired of life itself, but that the sufferings made them rely not on themselves but on God (2 Cor. 1:8-10).
Much like Paul and Timothy learned, we too will experience burdens that are meant to get us to rely not on our own strength but upon God’s. These burdens are meant to remind us to keep our hope in God and not in anything else. Remember, if God is for us, who can be against us (Rom. 8:31).
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.

Pomona Unified Teachers Awarded Grants To Purchase Supplies

By Juliette Funes

POMONA – The Pomona Valley division of the California Retired Teachers Association has provided nearly $750 in mini-grants to Pomona Unified teachers to purchase a variety of classroom materials, from chemistry handbooks and circuit boards for robotics to computer tablets and balance scales.

During the highly competitive grant process – in which a seven-member committee from Pomona Valley Division 13 reviewed 256 applications submitted by teachers from 10 school districts – six PUSD educators were selected to receive the small grants to enrich their classrooms and benefit students.

“I want to thank our retired Pomona Valley educators, who continue to care about our students and their education and inspire our teachers to continue improving achievement outcomes for all of our students,” Board of Education President Andrew Wong said.

The 2015 grant recipients from PUSD are Rebecca Bulsombut from Decker Elementary, who will purchase Arduino boards for her robotics class; Christiana Duckett from Ganesha High, who will purchase a chemical equations handbook; Pimolrat Kanehana of Alcott Elementary, who will buy hands-on math manipulatives; Roxane Medina of Fremont Academy, who will buy materials for her special education class; Jessica Mitchell from Ranch Hills Elementary, who will buy a computer tablet; and Linda Quach of Ganesha High, who plans to purchase a balance.

“As former teachers, we firmly believe in supporting our successors in their efforts to raise student success rates,” said Kathy Concidine, Pomona Valley Division 13’s Teacher Grant Chairperson. “While these grants are small, I know that they will go a long way in supporting classroom instruction.”

Of the 256 applications the committee reviewed, 54 were from Pomona Unified.

“This is wonderful news for Pomona Unified and these deserving teachers, who work diligently every day to make miracles happen in the classroom,” Superintendent Richard Martinez said. “Thanks to organizations like the California Retired Teachers Association, these educators will be able to continue making a difference in the lives of their current and future students.”

Diamond Bar Election 2015

Carol Herrera

Carol Herrera

By Monique Valadez

DIAMOND BAR – As of Nov. 13, criminal prosecutor Ruth Low and the incumbent city council member Carol Herrera appear to have clinched the top seats for the Diamond Bar City Council. The final verdict will be announced on Friday, Nov. 27 by the County of Los Angeles Registrar-Recorder/Clerk.
Retired police officer Robert Nishimura is close behind Low and Herrera. According to the unofficial results, Low received 2,266 votes, Herrera received 2,216 votes and Nishimura received 2,149 votes. Coming in the fourth spot, Robert Velker received 730 votes.
Herrera, who’s held the council seat since 1995, remains optimistic and continues to push her community goals.
“My priorities are public safety, reducing traffic and economic development,” Herrera said. One of the economic development project’s Herrera hopes to visit if re-elected is the rehabilitation of the Kmart center.

Ruth Low

Ruth Low

Low and Herrera both support the reconfiguration of the traffic madness along the 57/60 freeway interchange, a project that recently broke ground with construction starting in early 2016.
Low’s campaign also pushes for public safety and solving the city’s traffic issues.  “I have directly contributed to making our community safer by vigorously enforcing our criminal laws, and as Councilmember, I will make community safety my top priority,” the current Planning Commissioner said. “My goals are to maintain public safety, promote excellence in education and lifelong learning, mitigate traffic, conserve our environment and promote fiscal prudence.”
Low will take the seat vacated by Councilman Jack Tanaka, who decided not to run for re-election.
According to city officials, Diamond Bar’s city clerk will certify the election results and swear in the newly elected council members during the Dec. 1 council meeting.

Pomona Police Conduct Major Crime Sweep

Staff Reports

POMONA – This past weekend, the Pomona Police Department’s Major Crimes Task Force (M.C.T.F.) coordinated a multi-agency enforcement operation named “Home for the Holidays.” The purpose of the annual holiday operation was to reduce criminal activity in high crime areas within Pomona.
According to police reports, 30 probation and 20 parole compliance checks were conducted. These checks along with other self-initiated contacts resulted in 35 arrests for various offenses including: illegal narcotic sales, illegal firearm possession, possession of a stolen vehicle, and outstanding arrest warrants.
Officers seized six firearms and recovered two replica firearms from gang members. Several narcotics were also seized including 15 grams of methamphetamine, 3.5 grams of cocaine, and 21 grams of marijuana.
The AB109 San Gabriel Valley East Task Force, Los Angeles County Probation, California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (PAROLE), Claremont Police Department, Baldwin Park Police Department, Covina Police Department, Glendora Police Department, Irwindale Police Department, La Verne Police Department, Whittier Police Department and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office participated in the operation.
Operations of this type will continue in the hopes of deterring crime city wide, according to police officials.

Riverside County: Fraud Alert!

Don’t be scammed by fake IRS, Jury Duty, Courts, Overdue Bills, or Utility or Service Providers
Courtesy of Riverside County Sheriff’s Department

RIVERSIDE COUNTY-The holidays are approaching and Riverside County Sheriff’s Department would like to remind the public of phone/fraud scams. Please be vigilant and always question unsolicited telephone calls from deceptive businesses, banking institutions, foreign countries, or government agencies where monetary promises or threats are implied or made directly.
Numerous fraud schemes involving mortgage assistance, outstanding tax collection, foreign government assistance, and even to companies promising to return money lost are impacting citizens throughout the county. These scammers almost always request money to be paid up front for illegitimate services, or the threat of arrest, eviction or property seizure is made.
A notable and common scheme involves the caller who claims to be a member of law enforcement, or an employee of the the court system. The victim is told he or she has a warrant for failing to appear for jury duty. The caller demands payment for the warrant via credit card information, or a Green Dot card. The suspect typically remains on the phone with the victim while he or she travels to the store to obtain the Green Dot card. The suspect further instructs the victim not to tell anyone who they are talking with. After obtaining the serial numbers to the Green Dot cards, the money deposited to the card is immediately removed by the suspect.
No Riverside County Court or Sheriff’s Department employee will ever contact the public and ask for financial information or payment in lieu of attending court proceedings, or to make up for failure to appear for jury duty.
For more information regarding other scams visit: http://www.riversidesheriff.org/crime/fraud.asp

Brahma Athletes Sign National Letters Of Intent

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High golfer Josephine Chang committed to University of Kentucky.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High golfer Josephine Chang committed to University of Kentucky.

By Kelli Gile/WVUSD

 

DIAMOND BAR—Diamond Bar High School (DBHS) golfer Josephine Chang and swimmer Jenna Lloyd will be taking their skills to compete at the collegiate level after signing national letters of intent on Nov. 13.

Chang, 17, will attend University of Kentucky in the fall on a coveted full-ride scholarship.

Louisville coaches contacted the teen last summer and came to watch her play in an East Coast tournament.

That same week, she visited the college to meet the athletic department staff and check out the indoor facilities and university-owned golf course. It was love at first sight.

“It was everything I possibly needed to pursue golfing,” she said during the signing ceremony with school officials and families.

“The coaches genuinely want me and made me feel welcome. And it’s beautiful and green and the trees change colors,” she added.

Chang began playing golf for fun with her big sister and cousins at age 7. Chang has golfed all four years on the DBHS varsity team that has won three CIF Championships, one Runner-Up CIF, and two CIF State Runner-Up awards.

In fifth grade, she met two coaches who introduced her to the world of competitive golf. She soon began playing junior tournaments.

“They helped shape me into the golfer I am today,” she said.

In 2014, the team claimed the State Championship against reigning champion, Torrey Pines High School.

“It was an amazing feeling when we came in and realized that we finally achieved the goal we’d been chasing since freshman year,” said Chang, who advanced to the State Semi-Finals as an individual player this year.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar High senior Jenna Lloyd signed a college national letter of intent to attend San Jose State University. Pictured with Interim Principal Denis Paul, swim coach Darlys Ankeny Grade Level Coordinator Ginger Auten, and Athletic Director Kevin Ferguson.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar High senior Jenna Lloyd signed a college national letter of intent to attend San Jose State University. Pictured with Interim Principal Denis Paul, swim coach Darlys Ankeny Grade Level Coordinator Ginger Auten, and Athletic Director Kevin Ferguson.

Lloyd, 17, will attend San Jose State University on a full-ride scholarship.

“I was so happy when I got the offer,” she said. “I love the school!”

The sprinter’s favorite race is the 100-meter breaststroke and her best time is an impressive 1 minute, 3 seconds.

“I’ve been swimming ever since I was little, about 4 years old,” she said. “And it’s fun!”

Lloyd made a competitive national team in the eighth grade and has qualified for a national contest. She now competes at the junior national level, which is just two levels below the Olympic trials level. This is Lloyd’s fourth year on the school’s varsity swim team.

“I love the new pool,” she says about the aquatic center that was dedicated in December 2013.

“It’s a beautiful facility, compared to other schools,” she said. “Having home meets gives us a boost during competitions.” Prior to the opening, DBHS teams practiced and competed at Walnut High. Lloyd plans to study communication disorders to pursue a career as a speech therapist.

 

Free Holiday LED Light Exchange

By Jennifer Ward

 

EASTVALE–The Western Riverside Council of Governments (WRCOG), through its Western Riverside Energy Leader Partnership, will be hosting its second annual Holiday LED Light Exchange at Eastvale’s Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony, Dec. 5, at the community center located at 13820 Schleisman Road from 3 p.m. to 9 p.m.

The 2015 Holiday LED Light Exchange events allows residents from anywhere in Western Riverside County and Southern California Edison (SCE) service territory to participate and exchange their old, inefficient, incandescent holiday lights for energy efficient LED equivalents, at no cost.

Only 100 exchanges will be available at each event, so join us early!  Each participant can exchange up to two strands.

Participation is easy.  You simply need to bring: 1) no more than two strands of functioning, incandescent lights, with 50 bulbs or more; 2) a copy of your SCE monthly bill (or proof of electronic payment); and 3) a license or picture identification matching the customer name on the SCE bill.

For additional information or questions, please contact Tyler Masters at (951) 955-8378 or masters@wrcog.cog.ca.us.

WRCOG is a joint powers authority, consisting of the County of Riverside, 17 cities, two regional water districts, the Riverside County Superintendent of Schools, and the Morongo Band of Mission Indians. WRCOG’s program areas are varied and range from transportation to air quality, solid waste, environment, energy, economy, sustainability, and growth.  For more information about WRCOG please visit www.wrcog.cog.ca.us.

 

 

Diamond Bar Council Bids Farewell to Jack Tanaka

Photo courtesy: City of Diamond Bar

Photo courtesy: City of Diamond Bar

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – A standing ovation at Diamond Bar City Hall last week (Nov. 17) was given to Councilman Jack Tanaka as he announced his retirement from 10 years of service to the community.

Tanaka stated that the city council, staff and residents have made his 10 years of service memorable and a great learning experience. His last day in office will be Dec. 1.

Tanaka, first elected in 2005, served twice as the city’s mayor and served on the City’s Planning Commission for more than three years. He said he wanted to spend more time with family, but will still remain active in the community who he considers family.
A retired U.S. Army Sergeant and former peace officer with the California Youth Authority and State Department of Corrections, Tanaka was first elected to the Diamond Bard city council in 2005.
A constant fixture in the community, Tanaka and his wife Wanda devoted much of their time to helping out in the community especially youth. From the Miss Diamond Bar Pageant and the local Humane Society to community birthday parties and city concerts, the Tanaka’s were always there to lend a helping hand.
The Tanakas believe community service makes each volunteer a better person, a caring person, a person living an enriched life.
The Tanakas moved to Diamond Bar in 1976 and have since remained actively involved in community matters. In 2012, the couple was honored with Lions Clubs International’s Lion of the Year Award, the organization’s highest honor and usually given to only one person in the world.
Diamond Bar resident Lorry Somers Hughes Meyer said it’s sad to see him go. “He was great asset to the city. He has surely accomplished his civic duty in spades!”

James Audley “When you are as involved as Mr. Tanaka is in his community you never retire,” resident James Audley said. “He and his wonderful wife Wanda embody the spirit of philanthropy and a service driven life. During my time working in Diamond Bar I cannot say I met anyone who was more kind and generous than the Tanakas. They are a model of what being a citizen is all about.”