Category Archives: News By City

Corona: Nightly Closures For E. Grand Blvd.

Courtesy of RCTC

CORONA-The contractor for the 91 Project in Corona began removal of the newly constructed bridge deck over East Grand Boulevard On Oct. 28. The future 91 eastbound bridge may have sustained damage during a bridge lowering operation that injured nine workers on Oct. 9. Atkinson/Walsh Joint Venture (AWJV) has decided to remove the bridge deck and rebuild the bridge to ensure its long-term durability after opening to traffic. Full closures on East Grand Boulevard between Third Street and Joy Street will be required for bridge removal and false work placement from Monday, Nov. 2 to Sunday, Nov. 8, from 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. each night. Motorists should expect intermittent nightly closures during the next four weeks as crews replace the bridge deck and work on additional bridges over Grand Boulevard. The contractor will use a “build in place” method to rebuild the bridge deck, rather than the bridge lowering construction that was previously used. This will require reduced clearance under the bridge during construction, and high-profile trucks will not be able to travel under the bridge.
The cost of the demolition and reconstruction will not be borne by taxpayers and the additional work will not cause a delay to the overall 91 Project, which is expected to be completed in 2017.
“This is a wise and prudent decision by the contractor to rebuild the bridge. While it’s in a safe condition now, we need to ensure the long-term durability of the bridge, and the confidence and support of the public,” said Anne Mayer, Executive Director of the Riverside County Transportation Commission.
Of the nine workers hospitalized that night, five have been released. The cause of the accident is currently the subject of three independent investigations including Cal OSHA, Caltrans and KCE Structural Engineers.
Donations are currently being accepted for six of the injured workers, who have signed up for Workers Assistance Funds with the California Transportation Foundation at http://www.transportationfoundation.org/donate.

What Did You Say?

By Pastor Mark Hopper

I have had the privilege of serving as the lead pastor of two churches for a total of 40 years – 27 years in Diamond Bar and 13 years in Arizona.

As the lead pastor, I was responsible for preparing and delivering most of the sermons on Sunday morning.  For many of those years, we had two Sunday services.  If I preached 40 Sundays a year (deducting vacations, guest speakers, special programs, etc.) and spoke twice each Sunday, I have probably preached over 3,000 sermons in my life.

That is a lot of sermons and a lot of words!  So, I wonder, what are some of the things that people remember from all those sermons?  What words or catchy phrases do you think people remember?

Here are a few that I have heard people say they remember:

“Your ministry begins in the parking lot”.  Since we have a limited number of parking spaces on our property, we have rented spaces from businesses near our church.  We encourage people to “Park and Walk” to church from the off-site lots so that older adults, families with small children, people with special needs and new visitors can park on site.

When people park off-site, they are enabling others to use the available on-site parking spaces.  This is a very practical and helpful ministry to others.  Ministry at our church doesn’t just happen in the buildings and classrooms. It begins in the parking lot.

Another phrase that I often used with our leaders is, “Who and how many”?  I have found this question very useful in a variety of leadership settings.

At an Elder meeting many years ago, one of our leaders said that he had heard that a number of people were upset with something we had changed in our Sunday morning service.  You could sense the concern in the room.  What had we done that upset a lot of people?

Thankfully, before we launched into an extended discussion on the issue, I simply asked “Who and how many”?  How many people were we talking about and who were they?

It turned out that there were actually only two people that had complained and they tended to complain about everything!  Suddenly the mood of the meeting relaxed when we realized that there really were not “a lot of people” but actually only two.  Yes, we should consider their concerns, but we should also keep this in perspective and not be alarmed.

Another phrase that I often repeated through the years at our church was, “God uses people to bring other people to Himself”.  As you read throughout the Bible and especially in the New Testament, there are many examples where God used individuals to tell other people about Him.   In John 1, Andrew brings Peter to meet Jesus.  In Acts, God uses Peter to tell many more people about Jesus.

Certainly God does use a variety of ways to bring people to Himself.  I have heard stories of people coming to faith by reading a Bible in a hotel room placed there by the Gideon ministry.  I have met people who came to believe in Christ through a radio ministry or TV program.

But I believe that most of the time, people come to faith in Jesus through the words and friendship of other people.  God can use you to bring other people to Him.  You can invite a neighbor to church or talk with a co-worker at lunch.  You can lend a hand to stranger or spend time answering spiritual questions with a classmate.

I also believe that some of the people that God uses the most are children.  Children and grandchildren connect us with non-church people.  Kids are something that many of us have in common.  Through children, you meet their parents and grandparents.  These connections often lead to conversations about God, church and the Bible.

I hope you realize that God wants to use you to tell others about him.  Look around you this week.  Are there some people you know, work with or live near that you can help on their spiritual journey?

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.

Eastvale Ranks No. 2 in State for Families

Affordability and Kid-Friendly Amenities Earn Bragging Rights

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale Facebook page

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale Facebook page


By Monique Valadez

EASTVALE – With high-quality schools, pristine parks, and affordable neighborhoods, Eastvale is the No. 2 in the top California cities for families. It was the only Southern California city that ranked in the top five.

Eastvale earned a final score of 77.76 compared to Folsom’s 77.91 score for the No. 1 best California city for families.

Councilmember Clint Lorimore said that the recognition is honorable and a good indicator of Eastvale’s progress.

“We are constantly striving to improve upon the foundation of a family-friendly environment already established here in Eastvale,” Lorimore said. “Whether talking about our great schools, award-winning parks or our strong sense of community, we feel Eastvale sells itself in terms of being attractive to young families.”

The report of 2015’s Best & Worst Cities for California Families was done by the personal finance website WalletHub.com. The site compared 240 cities in California across four key dimensions: family life & fun, education, health & safety, affordability and socioeconomic environment. Number of fun attractions, divorce rate and unemployment rate were also considered.

According to WalletHub, Eastvale was rated highly in having the most playgrounds per capita, most affordable housing lowest divorce rate and having the most families with kids.

City officials note that the key to their success is actively engaging residents in planning the city’s future and implementing policies that create a family-focused community.

The top five cities for families are Folsom, east of Sacramento; Eastvale, in northwestern Riverside County; and three cities in the East Bay Area — San Ramon, Dublin and Pleasanton, cited the WalletHub report.

Eastvale struck out in having the fewest amount of attractions such as museums, zoos and theaters.

City officials remarked that new developments such as the Leal Property will help bring more entertainment, shopping and dining options to the city.

“Remaining focused on improving traffic flow, public safety and attracting the amenities that residents desire are top priorities as we move forward,” Lorimore added.

The rankings of other neighboring cities included Chino Hills (35), Rancho Cucamonga (53 tied with Brea), Corona (72), Chino (103), Riverside (153) and Ontario (185).

The worst cities are San Bernardino in the 238 spot, Oakland in 239 and Huntington Park in 240.

You can find the full report here: https://wallethub.com/edu/best-worst-cities-for-families-in-california/15993/

Walnut Valley Honors Star Students & Community Members

Photos Courtesy of WVUSD

Photos Courtesy of WVUSD
Castle Rock kindergartener Eva Jorgenson received a Super Star Award during the October 22 Board Meeting. Shown with Board President Larry Redinger.

By Kelli Gile 

WALNUT— The Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) Board of Trustees recognized outstanding students and community members during the Oct. 21 meeting.

Castle Rock Elementary kindergartener Eva Jorgenson was honored as a Super Star Student. She recently came up with plan to raise money to help children, families, and communities in third world countries.

As an International Baccalaureate School, Castle Rock strives to develop global students. Teachers facilitate learning through units of study and students are encouraged to develop action plans to solve problems.

After learning that some children are unable to go to school due to limited resources, Ava wanted to do something to help. The kindergarten classes held a fundraiser to support World Vision and raised a total of $2,500.

“Eva has a heart and mind to touch the life of another,” said Principal Resma Byrne.

“We are honoring her because we want her to know it only takes one child, one thought, one question to make a difference in the world.”

Castle Rock parent Christina Munoz was recognized with the Partner in Education Award.

Photos Courtesy of WVUSD

Photos Courtesy of WVUSD
Castle Rock parent Christina Munoz, shown with Board President Larry Redinger, was honored with the Partner in Education Award during the October 22 meeting.

“Christina is dedicated, committed, and reliable. What I love about Christina is the fun that she brings to whatever project she’s spearheading,” Dr. Byrne commented.

“She is my balance and she is always ready with a solution. Christina is a great mother and a great Community Club president!”

CJ Morris Elementary student Nathan Tome received the Super Star Student Award.

“Every one of Nathan’s teachers agreed that he embodies the qualities of a star student!” said Principal Shehzad Bhojani.

The well-rounded fifth grader plays two sports, has a passion for science and social studies, and displays strong character and values, especially the IB Attitude of Integrity.

“Nathan is humble and kind, well liked by peers and the first to help a struggling student. He is an

Photos Courtesy of WVUSD CJ Morris Elementary fifth grader Nathan Tome was presented with the Super Star Student Award on October 22. Shown with Principal Shehzad Bhojani, Board President Larry Redinger, and family members.

Photos Courtesy of WVUSD
CJ Morris Elementary fifth grader Nathan Tome was presented with the Super Star Student Award on October 22. Shown with Principal Shehzad Bhojani, Board President Larry Redinger, and family members.

overall good kid!” Bhojani added.

CJ Morris Elementary selected Dr. James Lin as the recipient of the Partner in Education Award.

This year, Dr. Lin is donating his time to coach the school’s Science Olympiad team.

Lin is medical doctor by profession who now pursues his passion of writing and education. He created the non-profit Bio Agents organization, published several novels, and has helped many students win awards in writing and in science competitions.  He also volunteers as head coach of several middle and high school level Science Olympiad teams.

Dr. Lin is also a graduate of Chaparral Middle School and Diamond Bar High School.

“We’re thankful for his time and commitment in providing CJ Morris students the opportunity to experience the Science Olympiad,” Bhojani added.

Rotary Club of Walnut Valley received the WVUSD Partner in Education Award.

“Rotary has been a wonderful partner to the Walnut Valley Unified School District for many years,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Most recently, the non-profit organization presented a $2,500 donation to support literacy needs across the District. They generously gave the same amount last year.

“We can’t thank them enough for the work they do with our students and all that they do throughout the community,” Dr. Taylor added.

The World Youth Education Foundation was also honored with a WVUSD Partner in Education Award for its matching $2,500 donation.

 

 

 

Diamond Bar Annual Eco Expo

Courtesy of City of Diamond Bar

DIAMOND BAR – Diamond Bar residents will have the opportunity to rid their homes of obsolete electronics, unwanted textiles and unneeded confidential documents when the City holds its annual Eco Expo event in celebration of America Recycles Day.
Set to take place on Saturday, Nov. 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the AQMD parking lot, this environmentally-themed event will feature a variety of information booths, collection areas and activities centered on green living and recycling.
Also as part of this event, Waste Management will be giving away up to 80 gallons of mulch to interested residents. This is a “self-serve” giveaway, so containers and tools for loading mulch are strongly recommended.
AQMD is located at 21865 Copley Drive in Diamond Bar. For more information, visit www.diamondbarca.gov/greendb or contact the City’s Environmental Services Division at 909-839-7015

Chino: Be Their Parents, Not Their Friends!

By Nicole Leiva

CHINO-On Oct. 22, the Chino Valley Unified School District hosted a Parent Information Forum, in the Chino Hills High theatre. This forum had about 100 parents in attendance and it covered a wide range of issues that are affecting our millennial’s in the Chino Unified School District.

Those issues range from drug trends, social media use, cell phones, privacy, teen driver laws, and knowing your rights as a parent.

Chino Police Officer’s and San Bernardino County Sheriff’s led the event by sharing their experience and knowledge about the issues at the forefront of junior high and high school students across the district. The law enforcement officers talked about teens as young as 12 are trying the gateway drug marijuana. They also spoke about the issue with the new trend of vapors and teens using the vapors to smoke marijuana. In addition teens are experimenting with mixing two different drugs together, which can be very dangerous.

Social media use is an extremely important topic because with the internet and texting, teens can connect with anyone or any subject of their choice. Teens use their phones to share nude photos with each other, which can be considered child pornography. Some teens communicate via text with codes referring to drugs, parties or sex. So if parents check their phones they won’t know what they are talking about.

The officers also spoke about teens using social media to meet strangers on websites that are looking for relationships with minors or terrorist groups like ISIS looking to recruit youth. Worst of all teens are using social media for bullying, which can cause stress, anxiety and lead to suicide.

The presenters wrapped up the forum with addressing teen driver laws and the importance of parents and teens knowing and applying those laws when teens begin to drive.

In the end, law enforcement made a strong plea to the parents, “Be the parent, not their friend! Know your rights as a parent.”

Officers also told the forum to maintain regular communication with their children and to discipline their children accordingly.

Your children do not have the right to privacy when it comes to their bedrooms, phones, or cars, because the parents are the providers to these priviliges and they can take away these priviliges when necessary to keep their children safe, officers said.

The parents in attendace were very pleased with the forum. After speaking to several parents, they all responded with a sense of great appreciation to the district and law enforcement for providing this eye-opening information. Some said they were hopeful. Chino Hills High School Principal Isabel Brenes was very pleased with the parent attedance and the positive response from the parents.

Walnut Goes Solar

New Expedited Solar System Permit Process Adopted

By Monique Valadez

WALNUT– Walnut homeowners and businesses looking to go solar now have a team of city officials backing them in their smart, energy efficient lifestyle. With the passing of a new state law AB 2188, all California cities and counties had until September to implement a state-standardized permitting process for the alternative energy systems.

The new law takes out the red tape and burdensome permit process allowing for an easier and faster process for residents and installers alike.

The Walnut City Council made it official on June 24 by adopting a new ordinance to help expedite and streamline a formal permit process for small residential rooftop solar energy systems.

According to city officials, they hope to advance the use of solar energy by all its residents, businesses, and industries by providing an expedited permitting process to assure the effective deployment of solar technology.

According to the new state law, which builds on the Solar Rights Act of 1978, seeks to reduce permitting barriers by mandating cities institute a more accessible and straight-forward permitting process, and by reducing opportunities for local governments to delay and unnecessarily condition approvals.

Under the new law, the city must allow homeowners to apply for the permits online, and must make all required documents available on their websites. A standard plan and checklist must also be provided to homeowners that explains the local building and safety requirements for rooftop solar panels. Cities must also complete the application process including inspections in a timely manner.

This new permitting process is also expected to save homeowners and solar energy installers a significant amount of time and money. In the long-run, this is a win-win situation for both governing bodies and residents converting to solar energy as well as helping expedite California’s “Million Solar Roofs” initiative.

For more information about solar energy systems and inspections, contact your city’s building division. The Walnut City Building Division can be contacted at (909) 595-7543.

Don’t Fall for ‘Slick Rick’ Phone Scammers

By Monique Valadez

CHINO-Last week I was contacted on my cell phone by an “unavailable” number. I hesitated answering it but thought perhaps it was an important call about my son. So I answered it.  Little did I know that those brief three minutes taught me a valuable lesson about phone and cyber scammers.

I noticed a few red flags such as using generic terms when describing information such as “your computer”. What if I didn’t even have a computer? He also didn’t claim any company.

So I decided to play along. “We are getting emails from your computer that you have a virus,” he pressed on.

I told him that I was at work and I did not have access to my laptop. This response immediately changed his tone with me. He asked when I would be able to get in front of my laptop. “Who does this guy think he is, ‘SlickRick,” I thought.

After a couple attempts to figure out a good time to call me back, the man thanked me for my time and hung up the phone. These scammers are clever and easily convince anyone into thinking there is an obvious issue with their computer.

Scams come in all shapes and sizes. According to Microsoft, scammers don’t just make phone calls they also send fraudulent email messages and set up fake websites. They might offer to help solve your computer problems or sell you a software license. Once they have access to your computer, they can do the following:

  • Trick you into installing malicious software that could capture sensitive data, such as online banking user names and passwords. They might also then charge you to remove this software.
  • Convince you to visit legitimate websites (like http://www.ammyy.com) to download software that will allow them to take control of your computer remotely and adjust settings to leave your computer vulnerable.
  • Request credit card information so they can bill you for phony services.
  • Direct you to fraudulent websites and ask you to enter credit card and other personal or financial information there.

Protect yourself by knowing the facts. Don’t fall victim to ‘Slick Rick’ and his bandits. If it sounds suspicious, hang up. If it looks suspicious don’t open it. When in doubt, take it to an expert.

Diamond Bar Senior Health Fair

Courtesy of City of Diamond Bar

DIAMOND BAR – The City of Diamond Bar is hosting its annual Health Fair & Flu Shot Clinic for adults age 55 and older on Thursday, Nov. 12 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Diamond Bar Center.
Attendees will have a chance to visit with various health vendors and service providers with information and answers to questions regarding a variety of topics ranging from healthcare plans to senior living options. There will also be health screenings, demonstrations and giveaways, as well as free flu shots administered on a first-come, first-served basis by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
Admission is free and open to the public; however, those wishing to receive a flu shot must pre-register by calling 909-839-7068 before the event date.  Diamond Bar Center is located at1600 Grand Avenue.

Chino: Local Teens Shape the Community

Photo courtesy of City of Chino City of Chino’s 2015-16 Teen Advisory Committee

Photo courtesy of City of Chino
City of Chino’s 2015-16 Teen Advisory Committee

By Monique Valadez

CHINO – A group of 11 teenagers from the Chino Valley have their own ideas on how to make their communities more attractive to young people, from the teen center to the new planned Liberty Courtyard.
These local high school students are more formally know as the city’s Teen Advisory Committee (TAC) want to have a voice in local government and bend the ears of elected city officials and other community leaders.
“The Teen Advisory Committee has not only given me a voice in my community, but it has also allowed me to meet other teens who care about the City of Chino and to help organize events that benefit the community,” Teen Advisory Committee Member Bridgette Rojas said.
The committee members serve in an advisory capacity to the Community Services Commission by providing input on teen issues as they relate to programs or projects in Chino, city officials said.
Leading the committee this year are Noemi Lemus, Chairperson; Natalie Camacho, Vice Chair; and Bella Ferriola, Secretary. The officers were elected by the members during their first meeting, which was held September 3, in the City of Chino Council Chambers.
This year, the TAC will be working with the Community Services Commission subcommittee for the construction of the Chino Liberty Courtyard. The courtyard is a planned monument that pays tribute to those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The courtyard will be located at the Carolyn Owens Community Building on B Street.
The teens will explore new ways to bring more awareness and increase participation to the Chino Experience Teen Center.
Additionally, the teens will take part in charitable projects including helping out the Chino Neighborhood House and the Chino Unified School District’s Care Closet.
Open positions are filled on an annual basis as the result of a competitive application process.
Returning members include: Natalie Camacho, Don Lugo High School; Daniel Contreras, Don Lugo High School; Mari Fierro, Don Lugo High School; Noemi Lemus, Don Lugo High School; Alexis Madrid, Don Lugo High School; and Bridgette Rojas, Don Lugo High School.
Newly appointed members are: Elizabeth Cazares, Don Lugo High School;
Edith Contreras, Don Lugo High School; Michelle Cruz, Don Lugo High School; Bella Ferriola, Ayala High School; and Nicholas Sanchez, Don Lugo High School.
TAC meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month, September through May, at 7 p.m., in the City of Chino Council Chambers.

Arrests in False Bomb Threats at Two Corona High Schools

Staff Reports

CORONA – Corona Police have arrested a 17-year-old Lee V. Pollard High School student on suspicion of making two false bomb threats.

On Tuesday, Oct. 20, shortly after 12:07 p.m., the Corona teen called Pollard High School stating there was a bomb on campus. Shortly after the first call, the minor placed a second call stating the bomb would go off in five minutes.

The next day, Oct. 21, at about 2:40 p.m., the same teen placed a call to Corona High School stating that a bombs were placed at all exits and would go off when the final school bell rang.

In both incidents, high school resource officers and school personnel conducted a thorough search of the campus and were unable to locate any explosive devices.
“The Corona Police Department will continue to investigate bomb threats to their fullest extent, as these types of incidents instill fear in students, their parents, faculty, and our community,” said Public Information Officer Sergeant Paul Mercado. “These types of investigations draw significant amounts of public safety resources away from legitimate purposes. Those found to be engaged in making false bomb threats will be held accountable.”
The teen was arrested and taken to Riverside County Juvenile Hall for making false bomb threats and criminal terrorist threats.
The school district will also take disciplinary actions against the student.

“Our district will not tolerate this type of behavior,” said Michael G. Cobarrubias, Associate Superintendent Corona-Norco USD.

Mt. SAC Breaks Ground on $46M Business Tech Center

Photo Courtesy of Mt. SAC

Photo Courtesy of Mt. SAC
Mt. San Antonio College’s Board of Trustees’ dig in for their ground breaking ceremony held on Thursday, Oct. 22 where their new Business and Computer Complex will be built.

By Monique Valadez

WALNUT– Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut formally broke ground on its new business and computer complex Oct. 22.

Designed to fulfill the academic needs of the school’s business and computer technology programs and other programs well into the 21st century, the 87,000-square-foot complex will comprise three buildings including new technology-based classrooms, lab-based learning environments and a student-run restaurant.

“This is going to be a state-of-the-art complex that will consolidate our business and computer programs in one central area,” said Mt. SAC Business Dean Jennifer Galbraith.

The new complex, located south of the tennis courts and west of the Language Center, building 66, will bring much-needed space for a wide range of programs including paralegal studies, accounting, computer information systems, office technology, culinary arts, hospitality management and interior design.

The three-building complex will also feature the Language Learning Center and computer security lab.

In addition, a lobby will be added to the west side of building 66 to connect this building to the rest of the campus through a new pedestrian path.

The new complex is expected to cost $46 million by completion in the spring of 2018, college officials said. Construction begins in December. Half of the project is funded through Measure RR, Mt. SAC’s $353-million facilities bond approved by voters in 2008.

Measure R and Measure RR has brought an influx in construction to the campus. A $16.6 million Student Success Center opens in 2016 and $14.7 million food service center opens in December.
Several complaints have been arriving on the Walnut city council’s desks regarding the campus’ growth. Residents along with city officials filed a lawsuit on construction of a $48 million five-level parking garage earlier this year.
A $3.8 million solar-power project was recently approved by the college’s board members but some locals say the “solar farm” project would cause traffic congestion and would be an eyesore. College officials say that the project could save the campus nearly half a million dollars in energy costs annually.

Photo courtesy: Mt. SAC Artist rendering of the new business and computer complex.

Photo courtesy: Mt. SAC
Artist rendering of the new business and computer complex.

Diamond Bar: The Skin Of Our Teeth

Thorton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-Winning Play Makes Its Way to DBHS Stage

 

Courtesy of Diamond Bar High School Drama Department
DIAMOND BAR –The Diamond Bar High School Theatre Company begins its fall season with a performance of Thornton Wilder’s play The Skin of Our Teeth in the DBHS Theatre, with show times at November 6, 7, 13 & 14 at 7 p.m. Pre-sale tickets are $11 for adults and $9 for students; at the door adult tickets are $14 and students are $12. Tickets are available online at seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama.

Written immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor, The Skin of Our Teeth is an allegory dealing with themes of human nature, human struggle, and humanity’s search for higher purpose and meaning in times of turbulence. The story follows the trials and tribulations faced by the Antrobuses, a sort of “Everyman Family,” whose members are archetypes found throughout human societies. Though the story is imbued with the concerns of America at the inception of its involvement in WWII and allusions to biblical characters, its themes of recurring violence and the effects of hedonistic lack of concern with the consequences of humanity’s actions speak to the current concerns of modern audiences in the turbulent beginnings of the 21st century.   The audience’s glimpse into the lives of the Antrobus family and their struggle for survival in a world on the precipice of ending, gives insight into the boldness and resilience of the human spirit.  Wilder’s play sees humanity as Phoenix-like ever rising from the ashes and never giving up hope for a better future.  Though the play deals with heavy themes, its anachronistic self-referential, theatrical approach is still fresh and packed with very funny moments.

Advanced Theatre Arts students at Diamond Bar High School work in a company structure to create and produce all aspects of their shows from design, to set construction, to publicity and performance.  Students are working hard to achieve high production values since this is the first time that a DBHS production has been submitted for adjudication by the California Educational Theatre Association.  The production will highlight the play’s theatricality by featuring several elements of audience participation that seek to immerse the audience into the drama and make them part of the creative process.

Celebrated playwright, Paula Vogel, has written, “For an American dramatist, all roads lead back to Thornton Wilder…The Skin of Our Teeth was a remarkable gift to an America entrenched in catastrophe, a tribute to the trait of human endurance.”

Don’t Forget To Vote

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

For many communities, this is an “off” year in the election cycle.  But for some cities, there is an election on the first Tuesday in November.

My wife and I live in Diamond Bar.  We will be voting for new City Council members and for new School Board members.  We also have a bond measure for one of our school districts.

One of the ways you know it is an election season is the amount of flyers related to the election in your mail box.  There are also a number of election signs along the main streets in our city promoting a variety of candidates.

My criticism of the election signs is that people forget to remove them after the election is over.  I believe there are some regulations on the size and location of the signs, but there should be better ways to make sure they get removed after the voting is complete.

My criticism of the election materials that fill our mailboxes is that they can be misleading and misrepresent opposing candidates.

Recently there was a flyer in the mail with a photo of a candidate.  It was an unflattering picture and it was obvious that the flyer had been produced by the opposition. The flyer made some specific accusations regarding the candidate and urged voters to not vote for him.

I have several problems with this type of political material.

First, we should have a regulation that prohibits the use of an opposing candidate’s picture without their permission.

Everyone can find an unflattering photo of their opponent. Candidates should only be allowed to use photos of themselves and not their opponent.

Second, every flyer should include the names of the people who produced and paid for it.  The flyer that I received in the mail simply had a generic name of the sponsor and a post office box in another city.  It was paid for by “Citizens for a Better Community” or something like that.

My immediate question was, “Who are these people?  Who actually produced and paid for this mailing?”  People should be required to identify themselves personally and include a phone number and street address so you know exactly who sent out the flyer.

Third, I think there should be a time limit restricting when mailings can be sent.  I received the flyer late in the campaign.  It left little time for the opposing candidate to respond to the accusations leveled against him.  And, it left him with little time to provide a more positive photo of himself.

I hope that you will vote in the next election.  I hope you will take time to learn about each of the candidates and each ballot measure.  Read the material carefully.  Read the sample ballot, too.

Understand the issues and views of each candidate.

And, be discerning when you read the material you receive in the mail.  If it contains an unflattering photo and inflammatory accusations against another candidate, you may just want to toss it in the trash.

Many people are disillusioned and cynical about voting.  They are turned off by the negative campaigning and feel their vote doesn’t matter. But, do you know that there was a City Council election in Diamond Bar that ended in a tie?  The outcome was determined by a coin toss!  Every vote really does count!

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.

Free Chino Workshop Offers Helpful Tax Tips

Staff Reports
CHINO– Advice on year-end tax tips and good tax resources for business owners will be the focus at the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center’s Nov. 3 workshop in Chino.

The three-hour instructor-led workshop walks business owners through the tax basics of owning and operating a business and provides instruction on how to complete a sales- and use-tax return. Topics discussed are preparing and filing a sales and use tax return, how to support and report exempt sales, what is involved with using a resale certificate, determining what is taxable and nontaxable labor, and how to maintain adequate records. This workshop is presented by the State of California Board of Equalization, District 2. The workshop will be from 9 a.m. to noon at the Carolyn Owens Community Center located at 13201 Central Ave., 2nd Floor. To register, contact Deirdre Marsac at 909-983-5005. The workshop is free and open to the public.

Diamond Bar City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

DIAMOND BAR – The Aug. 20 Diamond Bar City Council meeting began with an update from the City staff, announcing plans for a City clock on a street median on Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue.

The announcement was followed by a plethora of presentations, the first to Gary Miller upon his retirement from the US House of Representatives. Miller has resided in the same home since 1979. He was one of the first elected councilmembers for Diamond Bar, and even helped resident’s petition for cityhood.

Alex Lee was presented a Certificate of Recognition for being named Leo of the Year for his efforts in volunteer and humanitarian work with Diamond Bar High School’s Leo Club, which was also earned an Excellence Award for humanitarian efforts, fundraising, and volunteer efforts.

Next, October 2015 was proclaimed National Cyber Security Awareness Month, to spread awareness about the damaging effects of poor cyber security. Residents were encouraged to learn more about cyber security at www.stopthinkconnect.org, as poor cyber security can affect not only personal life, but also businesses.

Finally, there was a presentation on the importance of voting, and all eligible residents were encouraged to vote in the upcoming Nov. 3 election. People eligible to vote can register to vote and learn more about voting at www.lavote.net.

The City was then introduced to the new Los Angeles County Assistant Fire Chief, former Diamond Bar resident Jim Robinson. A report was then presented concerning the imminent El Niño season, and residents were warned of strong storms and the possibility for flooding. Residents were advised to clear out v-ditches, drains and rain gutters of debris; to check their roofs for leaks; and most importantly, have a Family Evacuation Plan in the case of flooding.

During the public comments, representatives from the Diamond Bar Public Library announced several events, such as: on Oct 24. at 2 p.m., Lisa See will be at the Diamond Bar Public Library to discuss her book, “China Dolls,” followed by a book signing; a workshop for toddlers on Oct. 28 at 11 a.m., allowing a fun time for parents to play with their children; and finally a Halloween Spooktacular Party with the Wacko Show, on Oct. 31 at 2 p.m.

Following the public comments, the schedules of future events was read as follows: the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting is on Oct. 22 at 7 p.m.; the Planning Commission meeting is on Oct. 27 at 7 p.m.; the Halloween Haunted House is on Oct. 30 and 31, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Heritage Park, 2900 S Brea Canyon Rd.; election day is on Nov. 3, and polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and the next City Council meeting is on Nov. 3 at 6:30 p.m.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including the Council minutes from Oct. 6, and a check register for $1,924,665.07.

The Council adjourned with plans to meet again on Nov. 3, at 6:30 p.m. at the APMD Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Dr.

Walnut City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – Mayor Pacheco began the Oct. 14 Walnut City Council meeting by recognizing the recently retired Assistant Chief Fire Director Dave Stone. The Council thanked Stone for his invaluable commitment and tireless work keeping Walnut safe, and wished him a happy and peaceful retirement.

Following the presentation, two ordinances were approved by the Council: one ordinance amended the City’s municipal code regarding purchase and sale of equipment and supplies; the other amended the City’s municipal code regarding the drawing of warrants. The amendments to the municipal code were a response to Councilmember Tragarz’s concern over the lack of checks and balances in the Council, as the City Attorney and City Manager were able to draw warrants without bringing the warrants before the Council.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including the minutes from the Sept. 23 City Council meeting; a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $1,094,204.78; a resolution to deny Verizon’s plans to construct a new wireless telecommunication facility; final tract maps for Francesca Senior Housing; awarding a bid of $46,980 for storm drain maintenance; a memorandum of understanding between the Los Angeles County and the City regarding the administration and cost sharing for a coordinated integrated monitoring program for the upper San Gabriel River watershed; and a request for formal bids for auditing services.

The Council also approved waiving all applicable City fees for the destruction and subsequent reconstruction of the San Jose Hills road walls located at 20648, 20630, 20624, and 20618 Loyalton Drive. The Council also discussed Mt. San Antonio College’s plans to construct a photovoltaic solar system, and how to cease construction on the site. Many 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.

Transformed

Pastor Ed Moreno

Pastor Ed Moreno

By Pastor Ed Moreno

I’ve been an avid movie goer for as long as I can remember, which is why it’s surprising even to me that I’ve never gone to see any of the “Transformer” movies; so I would not be someone who could comment on them.

I do, however, know something about what it means to experience transformation.  And I do know “the” real life Transformer who transformed me:  Jesus.

Let me begin at the beginning.  My birth name is Edward Hector Fernando Moreno.  That’s a pretty Hispanic name (as if you couldn’t tell).  I was born and raised in Los Angeles.  My dad physically and psychologically abused my mom, and he hit me so often that I would flinch when he walked by.

The gang infested neighborhoods that I lived in were violent, too.  In a seven year period, I was in about 15 to 20 street fights.  Drug use and a generally immoral lifestyle were also the norm for me.

I was definitely not a college-bound kind of guy, so after high school I immediately entered the work force.  There I found another kind of violence (i.e., the undermining and back stabbing others do to you to get ahead).

By age 19, I literally asked myself: “Is this it?  Is this what life is all about?”  That was the beginning of my search for the real purpose of life.

At age 20, I went with the other brown and black belts at my dojo to go see a new scary movie.  We were “tough” guys and thought: How scary could it be?

Well the movie was “The Exorcist,” and I have to be honest, it scared me a lot.  Because even though I wasn’t raised in a religious home, for some reason I believed that demonic spirits were real and that I was defenseless against them.

For some reason, I also believed that God was real and that he was stronger than the demonic.  So I became determined to go to a church to find out more about God.

The youth pastor had enough presence of mind to hand me an easy to read translation of the Bible before I left that Sunday.  I went to my apartment and started reading through the Gospel of Matthew.

Suddenly, all the lights began to go on.  I was taken with the beauty of Jesus’ life.  I read of a heavenly Father who loved me, even if my earthly father didn’t.   I saw that God had a purpose for my life, and I discovered the meaning of life, which is to love God and serve him gladly.

The next Sunday, when the Pastor gave the opportunity for people to accept God’s offer of salvation through Jesus, his Son, I couldn’t get down the aisle fast enough.

I went home, grabbed the two baggies of marijuana that I had in a drawer, flushed them down the toilet and never looked back.  And the rest, as they say, is history.

The Scripture says that we are a “new creation” in Christ.  I can testify to the truth of that statement.  And as one who has been transformed by the real live Transformer, I can say that now I’m living life with true and lasting purpose.  The old life served no such purpose.

When people feel like they’ll “miss out” on life if they become a follower of Jesus, the crazy thing is that it’s by not becoming a follower of Jesus that they wind up “missing out” on real life – a life of real substance and that has eternal value attached to it.

If you are not a follower of Jesus yet, my prayer is that you will become one soon.  So why not check out a church, and maybe the positive life transforming experience I had will become your experience, too.

New Day Christian Church meets Sundays at 9:30 and 11 a.m.  They are located at 7155 Hamner Avenue, at Schleisman Road, next to the Fire Station.  For more information, call (951) 278-8367, or visit http://www.newdaycc.net.

White House Honors Local Pomona Schools

Photo courtesy: White House

Photo courtesy: White House

Staff Reports

Pomona– On Oct. 15, Pomona Unified School District and Cal Poly Pomona were recognized at the White House for a partnership helping underprivileged Hispanic youth reach higher education.

“It’s through important partnerships such as the one we have with Cal Poly Pomona that we are able to offer tremendous educational opportunities to our students and support them in their academic, professional and personal endeavors,” said Martinez, who was recognized at the White House earlier this year for bolstering student achievement and increasing access to technology at PUSD schools.

Cal Poly’s program, named Pomona TRANSFERmation, grew out of its PolyTransfer program, which was created in response to a call for greater access to higher education from the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics.

TRANSFERmation will create pathways for PUSD graduates to enter two- and four-year colleges and universities, as well as improve their college readiness in English and math, build support networks for them and engage parents.

“We are proud to forge this four-year partnership with Cal Poly Pomona to offer our Latino students a pipeline to college and help remove barriers to higher education by prioritizing early intervention, as well as parent engagement efforts,” said Board of Education President Andrew Wong.  “We remain committed to fostering a college going culture, enhancing academic and educational programs, and making acceptance to a four-year university not only a possibility, but a reality.”

Cal Poly Pomona has long had agreements with local community colleges that ease the path for students, but Terri Gomez, interim associate dean for Cal Poly Pomona’s College of Education and Integrative Studies, said more can be done.

“We know that if we really want to have an impact, we have to extend that pipeline to K-12 students,” Gomez said. “We want to facilitate educational access, which will lead to economic mobility.”

As part of Cal Poly Pomona’s commitment, the university will provide college and financial aid workshops for PUSD high school students; bilingual workshops at the high schools for Latino parents; bilingual campus tours for parents and students; peer mentoring with Cal Poly Pomona transfer students; and a summer program for prospective Latino high school and community college students.

“This truly is a transformative initiative that will change the lives of our first-generation and underrepresented Latino students, who often face challenges to success, and also supports our efforts to provide the children of this community with a high-quality education,” Martinez said. “I want to thank Cal Poly Pomona for its foresight and leadership. It is an honor to jointly receive this White House recognition.”

Chino Valley Mail Ballot Drop-Off Locations

Staff Reports

Chino Valley– San Bernardino County’s Registrar of Voters has set up several mail ballot drop-off locations throughout the county including the Chino Valley Fire District, city halls, and libraries. The consolidated general election is Nov. 3.
Some of the Chino Valley drop-off boxes are located at the following locations:
Chino City Hall, 13220 Central Ave., Chino
Chino Hill City Hall, 14000 City Center Dr.
Chino Branch Library, 13180 Central Ave., Chino
Chino Hills Branch Library, 14020 City Center Ave., Chino Hills
Cal Aero Preserve Academy Branch Library, 15850 Main St., Chino
Chino Valley Independent Fire Department, 14011 City Center Dr., Chino Hills
For a complete list of countywide locations, visit http://www.sbcountyelections.com/Voting/MailBallotDropOff/2015/1103.aspx
The public can drop off mail ballots during regular business hours, Monday through Friday between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. The ROV will pick up mail ballots every Tuesday until the election. The last pick-up will take place on Tuesday, November 3, 2015 at 5:00 p.m.
Voters can still sign up to receive a mail ballot by filling out the Mail Ballot Application found on the back cover of their Voter Information Guide, by downloading an application from the Elections Office website, or by calling the Elections Office. Voted mail ballots may be returned via the U.S. Postal Service, in person to any polling place on Election Day, or to one of the 30 mail ballot drop-off locations prior to Election Day. The deadline to apply for a Mail Ballot is seven days prior to Election Day.
Voters can find their polling place assignments at http://www.sbcountyelections.com or by calling (909) 387-8300.