Category Archives: News By City

Understanding The West Nile Virus Cycle

City of Eastvale

 

What is the West Nile Virus?

West Nile (WN) virus is a mosquito-borne virus that has been found in parts of Asia, Eastern Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. The virus was first detected in the United States in 1999 (in New York City). The majority of people and animals that are infected with the virus have a mild illness or no symptoms. In rare cases, the virus can cause a more serious inflammation of the brain. The elderly are at a higher risk for disease caused by West Nile virus.
How Do People And Animals Get West Nile Virus?
WN virus is transmitted to people and animals by infected mosquitoes. Only certain species of mosquitoes carry the virus and very few mosquitoes are actually infected. A mosquito first acquires the infection by feeding on a bird with the virus in its blood. The virus lives in the mosquito and is transmitted to a new host in the mosquito’s saliva when the insect bites a person or animal. Humans and horses are incidental hosts for the West Nile virus. The virus is most prevalent from May to October when mosquitoes are most abundant.

What Are The Symptoms Of West Nile Virus In People?

Most people who are infected with WNV have no symptoms whatsoever. However, of those who become ill, symptoms can include fever, headache, nausea, body aches, mild skin rash, or swollen lymph nodes. In a few cases, the disease will progress to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain). The time between the mosquito bite and the onset of the illness, known as the incubation period, ranges from 5-15 days in humans. It is estimated that 1 in 150 people who are infected with WNV will require hospitalization. The elderly are particularly susceptible to clinical illness caused by WNV. There is no specific treatment for infection with WNV, although supportive care is important.

Which Animals Get West Nile Virus?
An infected mosquito can bite any animal, but not all animals will become infected. The disease most often affects birds, but occasionally causes disease in other animals as well.

  • Birds: Wild birds are the animals from which the mosquito vector primarily acquires the virus. Infection has been reported in more than 138 bird species. Although many birds that are infected with WNV will not appear ill, WNV infection can cause serious illness and death in some birds. The most severe illnesses are seen among the corvid birds, which include crows, jays, ravens, and magpies. American crows constitute the majority of the birds reported dead due to WNV.
  • Horses: Horses are also susceptible to WNV. The disease does not seem to be specific to a particular breed or age of horse. Clinical signs of disease consist of central nervous system abnormalities similar to those caused by infection with eastern equine encephalitis (EEE) and western equine encephalitis (WEE). EEE and WEE vaccines are available for horses and are recommended for use in the spring. An equine WNV vaccine is now also available.

West Nile Virus Prevention And Control
To decrease exposure to mosquitoes and the infections they may carry:

  • Avoid outside activity at dawn and dusk during the mosquito season (May to October). This is particularly important for elderly and small children.
  • Wear protective clothing (long pants and long sleeves) and apply insect repellant when outside.
  • Make sure that doors and windows have tight fitting screens. Repair or replace screens that have tears or holes in them.
  • Drain all standing water on private property and stock permanent ponds with fish that eat mosquito larvae.
  • Make sure roof gutters drain properly. Clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.

What Do I Do If I See A Dead Bird?

If you find a dead bird, particularly a dead crow or other corvid (e.g., jay, magpie, raven), please call the number below promptly. Do not touch the bird.

Dead Bird Surveillance and Contact Information:  West Nile Virus Dead Bird Surveillance Program
Toll Free Telephone: 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473)
Website: http://westnile.ca.gov

Chino Valley Unified Students Become Fair Heroes

Courtesy of CVUSD

Chino Valley – Two Chino Valley Unified School District students have been named Young Adult Community Heroes for the Los Angeles County Fair, currently underway through Sept. 27, in Pomona.

Kayla Jones of Chino Hills High is the Chino Hills Young Adult Hero.  She was honored with Adult Community Hero, Laura Montegue, on Chino Hills Day at the Fair, Fri., Sept. 18.  Montegue is known for reuniting lost pets with their owners and finds homes for stray dogs.

Brianna Cabrera of Don Lugo High is the Chino Young Adult Hero.  She will be recognized with Adult Community Hero, Augustine Tapia, on Chino Day at the Fair on Wed., Sept. 23. Tapia served on the Chino Valley Unified School District Board of Education in from the mid-1970s through the early 1980s. He is currently president of the Chino Valley Historical Society.

Jones is a junior at Chino Hills High School, an honors student, and a participant in the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) college preparation program. She is active in the Black Student Union, and competes in track and field at Chino Hills High. She is a member of the high school ministry at Inland Hills Church in Chino, and works with preschoolers as a children’s church volunteer leader. Jones also assists in the weekly bingo games at Chino American Legion Post 299, and has worked on fundraisers for the Chino Hills Dog Park Committee. She has adopted a trail for litter removal at Soquel Canyon Parkway and Pipeline Avenue, and participates in the Walk Against Human Trafficking and Relay for Life fundraising efforts for the American Cancer Society.   Jones plans to earn a master’s degree in gerontology and pursue a degree in law.

Cabrera attends Don Lugo High in Chino. She started a Best Buddies program chapter for Don Lugo during the 2014-15 school year. Best Buddies was founded in 1989 to help create friendships for students with intellectual disabilities. Cabrera is also a member of Don Lugo’s Associated Student Body leadership, and on the school’s varsity track team. She is raising a black Labrador Retriever puppy for Guide Dogs for the Blind. The dog, Quinn, is a regular at Don Lugo, where he is learning socialization skills. For the last ten years, Cabrera has been involved in gymnastics. She is in her third year as a cheerleader with CheerForce Orange County, where she is a member of the Level 4 team, Kryptonite, which won USA Nationals in March.

Photo Courtesy: CVUSD

Photo Courtesy: CVUSD
Kayla Jones and Brianna Cabrera

Photo Courtesy: CVUSD

Photo Courtesy: CVUSD

An Interview With The Walnut Mayor

By Natalie Kim

Q:  As the only member of the City Council to have served on the State Assembly before, how different is the State Assembly from the Walnut City Council?

A:  Well, it’s substantially different, obviously. You’re part of 80 people in the State Assembly, and people are from all over the state. So you represent a different constituency. The 60th Assembly District, which is the one I was in, represented three counties: Orange County, Los Angeles County, and the San Bernardino County. It’s a huge area.

 

Q:  What part of Walnut are you most proud of?

A:  There are a couple things. When I was on the Council last time, we put into play several things that today are great for the city. We built the Teen Center gymnasium, we built the Senior Center, and we built the Starbucks center. Those are the three most prominent things we have in Walnut that have the greatest activity. I’m very pleased to be a part of that.

 

Q:  Is there anything you would change about Walnut if you could?

A:  No, I like Walnut the way it is. I like the atmosphere, I like the way the City is laid out, I like the fact that we have great parks and facilities for people to enjoy. The only thing we can do, that can be improvements, are to add onto those things. When I ran the last time, one of the things I urged was to build a swim complex over by Walnut Ranch, and we’re in process of beginning to do that. It will be a major area for swimming; for children playing in the water, for seniors to have a place to exercise in the water, a clubhouse, a place for people to gather, and then an ampitheater. We’re in the process now; we’re selling the land up there, and we’re using the proceeds to begin the development. The other thing we want to develop are shopping centers and to bring more restaurants into the City. The Albertson’s shopping center has been vacant for five years. It’s a blight on the City, and we want to redevelop that area. The thing that I want to do is [possibly] make that into an artist area. We have a lot of artists in the City and people don’t even know that. They gather here in City Hall and they do their painting. What I’d like to see done is bring in a major tenant and redo the whole area. Artist groups have a good idea of how to do that, so I want to bring them in and make that happen.

 

Q:  There’s been a lot of consternation surrounding your appointment as Mayor. Is there anything you would like to say to address that?

A:  I understand. I just call it politics – no matter where you are.  I’ve been in involved in politics at the local level, at the state level, and at the federal level. The thing that people don’t realize is that my appointment of Mayor is a selection by members of the City Council, not voters. Anyone can be Mayor. All it takes is three votes on the City Council. There have been at least four or five other occurrences where the people who were sitting as Mayor Pro Tem were passed [over]. So it’s not an unusual occurrence. I know people were saying that it was going against tradition.  The reality of it is many of the cities around us have the same situation. Many of the people on the City Council never get to be Mayor, because they get voted out. Bottom line is, I want to do what’s good for the City, and I want to treat people with respect, and I want the City Council to conduct its affairs in a respectful manner – which is, I think, the reason why the other members voted me in. We have not been having City Council acting in a respectful manner. It’s simply that. Yes, there were a number of people upset, but the reason people were upset was because Eric [Ching] was bypassed. I meet a lot of people, and most everyone I talk to is very happy I became Mayor. The Mayor is basically like a figurehead. They don’t really have power. They are a representative of the city. Somebody who is representing the city needs to act in a manner that is good for the city. I think that’s the only reason they selected me to be mayor; that I would be good for the City, and bring respect and more structure to the City Council.

 

Q:  What is your favorite and least favorite part of your job?

A:  I don’t really have a least favorite. My favorite part is really interacting with the public. I am very responsive. People call me or see me on the street, or in the grocery store, or at church, and ask me to do things or look into things. That is the real key of who you are as a representative of the City, is to be responsive to the needs of the citizens. That’s my most favorite part – interacting with the citizens, being responsive to them, and making sure the City is being run in a proper manner.

 

Q:  Do you have any advice for someone interested in running for City Council or beginning a career in politics?

A:  The first thing they need to do is be involved. If you want to be part of the city and a representative of the city, you must be involved and care about things that go on – which means you participate and volunteer.  You participate in things that may not be creating a big name for yourself, but make you part of a community. Sometimes people want to run, but they’ve never been in involved with anything. They haven’t served on any of the commissions, they haven’t done much in the way of participation in civic affairs, and then they want to be mayors or councilmen. You have to pay your dues, I think. I was on the Mayor’s Advisory Commission at first. After that, I was appointed to the City Planning Commission, and after that, I was elected to the City Council. Then, of course, I moved to the state legislature, and then I came back. But I participate. I participate in a lot of things. I started the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation. We give teacher grants, student grants, and we help the school district. We’ve raised nearly $2 million for the school district over almost 20 years now. That’s participating in the community. That’s giving back. At my church – St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Church – I was one of the initial people helping to create the church, building and raising money, and all that. I’m part of the Lyon’s Club, and I work with the Chamber of Commerce.  And I work with other organizations; I’m doing an event for the Republican Women’s group at my house to raise their membership. These are things you have to do for the community. And then, when you’ve done that, then you can be part of the leadership.

 

Natalie Kim is a student at Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut. She requested an interview with the new Mayor of Walnut, Bob Pacheco, and he readily agreed.

 

 

Socially Speaking

By Sarah Sanchez

Eastvale– A variety of events took place in the month of August, as the community enjoyed their last month of summer. To stay updated on the latest events and news, make sure to follow us on our Facebook page (facebook.com/EastvaleCommunityNews) and our website (www.anapr.com).

Trending topics last month included a young BMX rider who was named BMX World Champion, a picture of “No Duh” (a No Doubt tribute band) at the Eastvale Concerts in the Park, and a picture of Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Mounted Posse Deputies – Valerie Burt and Terri McCluskey – at Eastvale’s National Night Out.

Our most shared post was a picture of teens who allegedly vandalized property at Santana Regional Park in Corona. The community did a great job in sharing the post in order to help find the vandals. Our most popular post was a flyer about Eastvale’s Third Annual Flicks and Foods Trucks event held on Sept. 6. Many members of the community shared the post, tagged their friends, and encouraged others to go to the event.

Our Facebook page also consists of yard sales, meetings, events, and stories on a daily basis. Every Thursday, we post local yard sales for the weekend and allow you to post your own yard sale in the comments. On Fridays, we post the weekend events and link it to our new monthly calendar, which includes a variety of meetings and outings in the surrounding areas. We also post the online version of the full Eastvale Community Newspaper for you to download, save, or print out.

Don’t forget to LIKE our page at Facebook.com/EastvaleCommunityNews, follow us on Instagram at @EastvaleNews, and subscribe to our website at anapr.com. Use #ILoveEastvaleNews to tell us why YOU love Eastvale News.

Keep on Trending, Eastvale!

Walnut: A Day Of Remembrance

Walnut High Students Mark 9/11 Tragedy

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Walnut High School students marked the 14th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy with a display of nearly 3,000 American flags.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Walnut High School students marked the 14th anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy with a display of nearly 3,000 American flags.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut High School students placed nearly 3,000 American flags on the front lawn of the campus to mark the 14th anniversary of the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

Volunteers gathered after school on September 10 for the remembrance project. They created the 12-foot tall 9/11 and pentagon shaped display with thick layers of red, white, and blue patriotic markers.

The Teen Republicans club has organized the tribute for the past five years. This year, they were joined by members of United Medicine, UNICEF, Young Democrats, and the National Honor Society.

“I just want to be part of this because I think we should commemorate this tragedy. And it’s important to remember,” commented senior Gabriel Alfaro, the Young Democrats president.

The teens respectfully pushed the tiny flags into the grass to honor each life lost during the September 11, 2001 attacks.

“We need to memorialize this,” said senior Kai Lin.

English teacher Marissa Beemer quietly watched from the sidewalk during the hour-long project. When the 25 volunteers were finished working, she gathered the group to share her memories of 9/11.

At the time, Beemer was a senior at Fairfield University, a campus that sat on the Long Island Sound just across from the World Trade Center.

“You could see the smoke and rubble from my house.” the tearful educator described. “When the buildings fell, my school lost 14 alumni. Two of those people were my friends.

“So for me, this is very personal and I really appreciate that our students take the time to put the flags up every year,” she said.

The 9/11 flags were on display through Sun., Sept. 13.

 

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Diamond Bar – Mayor Steve Tye began the Sept. 15 Diamond Bar City Council meeting by presenting certificates of recognition to the Diamond Bar Girls Softball 12 and Under Gold All-Star Team for an outstanding season. The Council congratulated the team for its successful, and hopes that Diamond Bar will continue to nurture and support successful athletes. A City Tile was also presented to a representative of the Albertson’s market, located on 1235 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., recognizing them as the Business of the Month for September 2015.

Following these presentations, Captain Jeffrey Scroggin of the Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department announced the appointment of Chad Holland to the Special Problems Team. Holland had been transferred to the Department approximately a year ago, and the Captain is optimistic that his appointment to the team will lead to a more effective task force.

During the public comments, representatives from the Diamond Bar Public Library and the Diamond Bar Friends of the Library announced several upcoming events. On Sept. 23 at 4 p.m., a personal safety workshop will be available for parents of infants and toddlers to increase awareness of safety hazards. The ongoing essay contest themed, “How a Book Changed My Life,” will end on Oct 3. The top three essay winners will each receive a $200 Amazon gift card. On Sept. 26, from 2 to 3:30 p.m., swing dance lessons will be available, no partner or experience required. The Read Together novel for the month of October will be “China Dolls,” by Lisa See, and residents of Diamond Bar are encouraged to read the book together as a community.

Following the public comments, the schedule of future events was read. The Planning Commission meeting on Sept. 22 is cancelled, as is the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Sept. 24. Diamond Bar Day at the Los Angeles County Fair will be on Sept. 24, at the Fair Grounds in Pomona, and the next City Council meeting is scheduled for Oct. 6 at 6:30 p.m.

The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, which consisted of the City Council minutes from Aug. 18; the Traffic and Transportation Commission minutes from June 11; the Planning Commission minutes from July 28; the ratification of a check register totaling $2,134,115.63; the treasurer’s statement for the month of July 2015; a contract with Nexus-IS to expand the City’s security camera system; an application for $267,500 from the Habitat Conservation Fund Grant Funds, which requires a $267,500 match from the City for the development of the Canyon Loop Trail; authorization to spend $58,378.22 on five decorative light poles for the Diamond Bar Blvd. and Brea Canyon Rd. Intersection Enhancement Project; Appropriation Adjustments for the fiscal year of 2015-16 for Carry Forward expenditures, Special Revenue fund carryovers, Capital Project carryovers and Fiscal Year 2014-15 final adjustments; and authorization for the City Manager to approve an agreement between the City and the East San Gabriel Valley Regional Occupational Program and Technical Center for video productions services. The Council also adopted a resolution approving the removal of the crosswalk at Grand Ave. and the State Route Eastbound on-ramp.

Following Council reports and comments, the meeting was adjourned, with plans to meet again on Oct. 6, at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Dr.

Many Rally For The Reagan Dedication

Photo By: Sarah Sanchez Michael Reagan

Photo By: Sarah Sanchez
Michael Reagan

By Sarah Sanchez

Eastvale – On Friday, Aug. 28, a Dedication Ceremony was held in honor of Ronald Reagan Elementary, the 50th school to be opened in the Corona-Norco Unified School District. Michael Reagan, the son of U.S. President Ronald Reagan, was the special guest of honor at the dedication.

A variety of people were also in attendance, including U.S. Congressman, Ken Calvert; Senator Richard D. Roth; Anthony Pennay of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation; Eastvale’s Mayor, Ike Bootsma, and other City officials and dignitaries; CNUSD Superintendent, Michael Lin, and Board Members; Reagan Principal, Susan Helms;  Director of Education Board Members; PTA Board Members; Eastvale Chamber Members, and the students, teachers, and parents of Ronald Reagan Elementary.

The Dedication Ceremony was a great event, starting off with a Reagan student leading the Pledge of Allegiance. The crowd addressed the very same flag that was flown over the Capital on Ronald Reagan’s birthday.

Reagan Elementary Principal, Susan Helms, gave an introduction and thank you to all in attendance, and then Congressman Ken Calvert took the stage. He announced that four U.S. flags were flown over the United States Capital in honor of President Ronald Reagan, his son Michael Reagan, Principal Susan Helms, and Superintendent Michael Lin.

Many spoke at the dedication, including Mayor Bootsma; Superintendent Lin; CNUSD Board of Education President, Jose W. Lalas; Board Vice President, Cathy L. Sciortino; and Reagan PTA President, Brenda Meagher.

Then, the special guest of honor took the stage.

“It is an honor and privilege to be here at Ronald Reagan Elementary.  It is also an honor and a privilege to be the son of Ronald Reagan,” said Michael Reagan, as he chuckled.

Reagan thanked everyone who was responsible for making Ronald Reagan Elementary possible. He also presented Principal Helms with a Challenge Coin from the USS Ronald Reagan.  He then advised the students to always work together toward a common goal, referring to when President Reagan brought down a certain wall in Berlin. Reagan said his father focused on making friends out of enemies, and not enemies out of friends.

Reagan also said that the President always knew his audience when he gave a speech.

“Think about this school. Think about the name it has on this building. Think about who you represent. People will be looking to you for leadership in the future; the leadership that is going to be taught to you and brought to you in this school. Think about when you go out and leave this school campus; what will people be looking at? What message are you going to be giving to them? Always know your audience and know that they are watching. When you do good, the community will do good, and hopefully the state and the world will be doing good right behind you.”

The event concluded with all the Reagan students singing the Reagan Rally, and then officials gathered for the ribbon cutting. However, Principal Helms said, “It is a rope cutting instead of a ribbon cutting, because, after all, we are the Reagan Wranglers.”

CHP Officer Shot During Traffic Stop

Fontana man charged with attempted murder of a Peace Officer

Photo Courtesy: CHP

Photo Courtesy: CHP

Staff Reports

Baldwin Park – In the early morning hours of Sept. 11, CHP Baldwin Park area Officers conducted an enforcement stop on a Cadillac Escalade for an impaired driving investigation. During the stop, the driver attempted to murder the officer by firing a semi-automatic, 12-gauge shotgun, resulting in injuries to the officer. The officers returned fire, wounding the suspect.

According to the California Highway Patrol, the driver of the Cadillac fled the scene and was later apprehended after a lengthy pursuit. The chase came to an end when the Cadillac became disabled in a dirt field in Fontana. The suspect was taken into custody with the assistance of a West Covina Police Department K9 Police Dog and allied agencies.
The driver was identified as John Alfred Garcia, 30, of Fontana. He was booked into a Los Angeles County Jail and was arraigned under charges of Attempted Murder on a Peace Officer that was willful, deliberate, and premeditated; Assault on a Peace Officer with a semiautomatic weapon; and felony evading of a Peace Officer.
The CHP states that this shooting highlights the dangers of being a law enforcement officer.

Since January, 88 law enforcement officers nationwide have been killed in the line of duty. Of those, 28 have died as a result of fatal gunshot wounds. California has had three officers killed, all of which have been as a result of gunfire.
The average age of the officers who were feloniously killed is 41 years. The victim officers had served in law enforcement for an average of 12 years, 8 months at the time of the fatal incidents.
“Thankfully, our officer survived because of the courageous effort of not only his Partner Officer, but the multiple allied agencies who assisted, responded and pursued Garcia until he was apprehended,” said Southern Division Chief, Calvin Aubrey.
The officer was released from the hospital on Tues., Sept. 15, and is expected to make a full recovery.

Modest Is Hottest


By Sarah Sanchez

From shirts that show midriffs to bikini bottoms that only cover half of your bum – has anyone noticed the change in fashion trends? It seems like what’s “in,” is to show more skin.

It’s hard to talk to teens and young adults about going against the trend, but local youth pastor, Chris Kirish, at IgniteVPC, gave it a shot with a modesty-themed sermon last month.

Pastor Kirish talked about how bikinis were invited by French designer, Louis Reard, in 1946. Bathing suits at that time were more modest, only showing a small section of the midriff.   In fact, when the bikini was introduced, it was so scandalous that Reard couldn’t find a model to wear it.  He resorted to having an Exotic dancer being the first woman to ever wear a bikini in public.

Kirish went on to educate the students about a study that was done to determine what men thought of when they saw a woman in a bikini. Men in the study were hooked up to a machine and given a variety of pictures. When they saw women in bikinis or sexually-related clothing, the region of the brain associated with tool use lit up. Therefore, the conclusion of the study indicated that when women wear bikinis or sexually-related clothing, men see them as objects, not a person they can socialize with.

As a woman, I personally thought this study was eye opening on how important it is to dress modestly. Our youth looks up to us, whether we want them to or not. So if we’re wearing a bathing suit that looks like it could be underwear (or smaller than underwear), then our youth will do the same, thinking that it’s okay.

Getting a bad tan line in a modest bathing suit is the rising issue when this topic is discussed with teens. But really, what’s more important: getting a good tan line (that you probably will be the only one seeing), or setting a good example to the youth in your life? Considering there are so many cute bathing suits and clothing that cover up, I believe that we can set a good example and still look fabulous doing so.

Many believe this is a controversial subject, but I believe that “Modest IS Hottest”. Does your wardrobe show where you stand?

Chino Valley: Remax Top Producers

CV Chamber welcomes a new member

 

By Gel Delos Santos

Chino Valley – When you’re opening a new business in Chino or Chino Hills, one of the things that the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce does for you as a member is hold a ribbon cutting ceremony – with either the City Mayor or representatives from their office, as well as representatives from the District and Assembly offices – to wish you well and award you with a certificate of membership.  What an excellent way to let the community know about your company.

On Thurs., Aug. 27, the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce did the very same for Remax Top Producers, located at 13788 Roswell Ave., #167, in Chino.  It was a very well attended and well planned event, with a grand opening celebration held immediately after the ribbon cutting.

Christian and Jeanette Fuentes – a husband and wife owner/broker team – are quickly becoming quite an icon in the real estate industry.  The company started four years ago in Diamond Bar, with eight agents in a 2,000 square foot office building.  In just a short time, they grew to 72 agents in 9,000 square feet of space.  Two months ago they opened a second location in Chino with another 18 agents.  Their goal is to have a combined total of 120 agents this year.

Christian believes in sharing his 19 years of experience, knowledge and success with anyone he brings in

to his company.  He encourages all his agents to share with each other what works for them, no secrets.  If one is successful, the others should be too.  “Success is contagious” is Christian’s motto.

Christian and Jeanette have been blessed with two beautiful children, Alexandria, 5, and their son Liam, 2.  Christian believes in spending good quality time with family.  He tells his agents that they don’t have to be slaves to their business, but to have a good balance between family and work.

Furthermore, the Fuentes’ firmly believe in charity giving, and on Nov. 13, Remax Top Producers will hold a Charity Poker Tournament to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.  This is the company’s third year holding this event, successfully raising $18,000 in the first year, and $21,000 last year.  This year’s goal is to raise $25,000.

If you would like to know more about the Charity Poker Tournament, visit www.remaxTPcharityevent.com or contact Nayelli Soto at (909) 590-8853 or Christian Fuentes at (626) 625-9037.

The Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome Remax Top Producers to the Chino Valley community.

 

Chino Hills Man Arrested

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Sat., Sept. 12, Chino Hills Deputies – with the assistance of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Narcotics Division – investigated the possession of a controlled substance for sales.

According to the Chino Hills Police Department, a search warrant was served to suspect, David Selle, 45, as his residence on Organdy Lane in Chino Hills, under suspicion of being involved in the sales of methamphetamine.

During the warrant service, Deputies located approximately one ounce of crystal methamphetamine, a handgun (which was reported missing in May), approximately 84 rounds of live ammunition, and other evidence that confirmed Selle was, in fact, involved in the suspected drug sales.

Selle was arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation – or any criminal activity – is urged to call the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000; or, if you wish to remain anonymous, call WeTip at 800 78-CRIME.

 

Chino Valley: Smooth Start To New School Year

Courtesy CVUSD

Chino Valley – Chino Valley Unified School District had one of its smoothest openings to the new school year, according to several people attending the Sept. 3 Board of Education meeting.

“He wanted to thank everyone for what he felt is the best start of the school year in a long time,” said Mary Hancock, speaking for her husband, Todd Hancock, president of the Associated Chino Teachers (ACT) union. “He also wanted to thank the director of special education for one of the best years for special education students.”

Hancock said her husband wanted to thank Superintendent Wayne M. Joseph for giving teachers additional preparation time for classes. Superintendent Joseph concurred with the ACT president’s assessment, saying the first week of school was smooth everywhere he went that week.

Denise Arroyo, president of the Classified School Employees Association, which represents bus drivers, secretaries and other school support staff, also said the school year opening “went quite smoothly.”

“There were some hiccups, phones and Internet not working on the first day,” she said, but overall praising staff for an easy beginning to the new school year.

Hidden Trails Elementary School Principal, Yvette Farley, president of CHAMP, the group that represents management employees in the District, said the start of school was very smooth. The principal said she was “pleasantly surprised to have an intervention counselor show up on the first day of school to see how students were doing.”

Identifying student behavior issues early is important, Farley said, so principals and teachers have time to discuss how they will deal with any problems.

“It has been a great start of school,” board trustee Sylvia Orozco told members of the school board audience. “I’m so happy to hear great things. As always, there were some bumps in the road, but have patience, they will be worked out.”

Board President Irene Hernandez-Blair said she did receive some emails about traffic problems and student dress code issues, but she said parents need to take responsibility for driving carefully and politely in school zones and making sure their children dress appropriately for school.

“The board revised the dress code and principals are doing all that they can,” she said.

Board of Education member Pamela Feix complimented all school district staff members for the smooth school opening. Just after the Aug. 24 opening of the school year, local educators and staff members reported a very quiet beginning. During that first day, students and parents were introduced to several new administrators and approximately 100 additional teachers.

Canyon Hills Junior High offered its new breakfast program, making it the latest of 24 schools in the Chino Valley Unified School District offering before-school nutrition. Kindergarten through 3rd Grade students returned to smaller class sizes as the District reduced its student to teacher ratio to 26 to 1. Several school facilities underwent construction improvements this summer, including roofing, exterior paint, energy-saving LED lighting, asphalt, and installation of drought-resistant landscaping.

Link Crews, composed of junior and senior high students, welcomed freshmen and pledged to be their buddies throughout the new school year. Chino High’s cheerleaders, waving pompoms and cheering, formed a welcome path for students as they entered the campus. The school’s student leaders held up welcome signs along the street as students arrived.

Ayala High senior, Shweta Shah, student representative to the school board, said a team of students at her school made “everyone feel welcome on campus.”

“Wow, what a positive beginning of the school year,” Chino Hills City Councilman Art Bennett exclaimed as he began his City report for the school board audience.

Norco High – A Model Of Innovation

Staff Reports

Norco – Future Farmers of America selected Norco High as a finalist for the National Chapter Award Program Model of Innovation in the area of Student Development. Norco High joins an exclusive list of just ten schools nationwide to be nominated for this distinction.

Student development in Norco High’s Agricultural Program focuses on the creation of a Food Pantry, Supervised Agricultural Experience projects that build student skills in Animal Husbandry, Agriscience, Floral Design, and Horticulture; and finally, the $5 Challenge, a community service project.

Representatives of the program will travel to Louisville, KY in October to give a final presentation and interview. It will be televised on RFD-TV.

“We are honored and humbled to be among the select national 3 out of 3 star chapters in the National FFA Organization,” said Robin Grundmeyer, who teaches Floral Design at Norco High. “Of those nationally, we are proud to be considered a finalist for the model of innovation in the student category. Our students have worked hard in their service of the community and as advisors we are ecstatic to see the recognition of their hard work.”

Norco High continues to offer an excellent Agriculture Education Model that prepares students to become future leaders in the agriculture industry.

To read more, visit https://pulse.ffa.org/index.php/2015/08/10/finalists-2015-national-chapter-awards/Norco HS Agriculture Department

Bark For Life Chino Valley

Photo Courtesy: Bark For Life of Chino Valley

Photo Courtesy: Bark For Life of Chino Valley

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – With the support of thousands of volunteers, the American Cancer Society is helping save more than 400 lives a day. The Relay For Life and Bark For Life movement offers an inspiring opportunity to honor cancer survivors, promote how individuals can reduce their cancer risk, and raise money to help end cancer. And they won’t stop until they finish the fight against cancer!

On Sat., Oct. 17, you and your favorite K-9 pal can get involved in the fight against cancer, too.  The Chino Valley Bark for Life event begins at 9 a.m. at Boys Republic High School.  Families and their dogs can come together for a few hours during the day and complete a one mile walk to honor cancer survivors, and the care giving qualities of their canine “Best Friends.”

Some of the festivities include:  Doggie Games; Top Dog and dress up contests; Team and Community fundraising; music and food; and special dog guest demonstrations by therapy, police and rescue dogs.

Photo Courtesy: Bark For Life of Chino Valley Jennifer Rudin and Lyle Ballard proudly display the new CV Bark For Life sign.

Photo Courtesy: Bark For Life of Chino Valley
Jennifer Rudin and Lyle Ballard proudly display the new CV Bark For Life sign.

Come and meet the 2015 Bark Ambassador, Dr. Greg Ogilvie – Director of the Angel Care Cancer Center at California Veterinary Specialists; President of the Special Care Foundation for Companion Animals; and Division Director of Veterinary Oncology at the University of California-San Diego, Moores Cancer Center – as well as a very special guest that helps to support the American Cancer Society and kicks off the Walk with an opening group lap.

The Closing Ceremony starts at 2:30, with the announcement of raffle prize winners.

Join the Chino Valley Bark For Life event, and enjoy a day of unconditional love, make some new friends, share heartwarming stories, and help raise funds in the fight against cancer.

To register, sponsor, or get additional information, visit www.relayforlife.org/barkchinoca, or contact the Bark For Life event chair, Jennifer Rudin, at bflchinoeventchair@gmail.com.

Delicate Smiles

Delicate Smiles BF1-CMYKCreating the smile you’ve always wanted

By Claire Lewis

Chino – If you haven’t seen a dentist in a while, or you’re just looking to make a change, the offices of Delicate Smiles in Chino will help you create the smile you’ve always wanted.
Offering comprehensive dental care and a warm and caring environment, Delicate Smiles provides the very latest in technology personalized to your needs. From x-rays and basic cleanings to more advanced care, they take pride in a relaxed atmosphere and good, old-fashioned client care – helping to make your next visit to the dentist one that you won’t dread.
Dentist, Dr. Doo Lim, looks forward to meeting you and providing you with the very best in dental care. Dr. Lim was raised in Southern California, and moved to Chino in 2005. He received his B.S. in Biological Sciences from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, and his D.D.S. from the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco. After graduation, Lim moved back to Chino to help patients achieve optimal oral health.
Lim’s personal motto is to provide dentistry with ethics and humanism, and treat all people as if they were family. In his spare time, he enjoys traveling, playing basketball, and serving at his church.
Make an appointment today, and let Dr. Lim and his team of experts help you achieve your most beautiful smile.
Office hours are Mondays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Fridays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Saturdays by appointment; and closed on Tuesdays and Sundays.
Delicate Smiles is located at 4531 Philadelphia St., Suite B-107, in the city of Chino. They can be reached at (909) 902-9100.

Eastvale’s Day At The Fair

Staff Reports

Eastvale – The L.A. County Fair is in full swing at the Fairplex in Pomona, and these community partners have joined forces with the City of Eastvale to offer a special day dedicated to our residents.

On Fri., Sept. 25, Eastvalians can enjoy a discounted admission, as well as a Community Day Parade, celebrating civil officials, business leaders, volunteers, unsung heroes, local talent and outstanding youth.

The L.A. County Fair – enjoying its 93rd anniversary as one of the Country’s largest county fairs – runs from September 4 to 27, and offers a wide variety of entertainment.  Concerts, a carnival midway, exhibits, animals, shopping (and fair food!)  are yours to behold, and a good time is anticipated for all.

To get your discount coupon, visit http://www.eastvaleca.gov/modules/showdocument.aspx?documentid=3963.

To participate in the parade, visit http://www.lacountyfair.com/partners/entertainment#parades.

The L.A. County Fair is located at the Fairplex Exposition Complex, 1101 West McKinley Avenue, in Pomona.  Fair hours are Wednesdays, Noon to 10 p.m.; Thursdays, Noon to 11 p.m.; Fridays, Noon to Midnight; Saturdays, 10 a.m. to Midnight; and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.  For more information, visit www.lacf.com, or call (909) 623-3111.

Prepare Today For Tomorrow’s Emergencies

Courtesy of the Chino Valley Fire District

Chino Valley – The Chino Valley Fire District encourages all Chino Valley residents and business owners to observe National Preparedness Month throughout September by putting together an emergency supply kit and creating and practicing an emergency evacuation plan.

Taking simple steps today to prepare for tomorrow’s emergencies will help protect you, your family and your business should disaster strike.

Below is a list of items to consider including in your emergency supply kit:

  • One gallon of water per person per day (a week’s supply is preferable)
  • First-Aid kit, freshly stocked
  • Nonperishable foods and non-electric can opener
  • Blankets or sleeping bags
  • Portable radio, flashlight, light sticks and spare batteries
  • Essential medications and prescription glasses
  • Change of clothing
  • An adjustable wrench for turning off gas
  • Important family documents
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

 

For more information, including a complete emergency supply checklist, visit www.chinovalleyfire.org.

 

 

Coexist

Tim Eaton

Tim Eaton

By Pastor Tim Eaton

You have seen the bumper sticker. You likely know someone who believes something different about God than you do. In fact, you probably know lots of different people with lots of different ideas about God, the origin and purpose of life, and how we should live.

The existence of many different answers to life’s biggest questions seems to beg a few more: Who is right (if any)? How do we live together in peace? And, How can we relate to and interact with each other?

History holds for us tragic examples of how not to coexist with people of other faiths. Rather than accept the challenge of deep dialogue and seeking understanding, many have simply tried to eliminate people of other faiths from their vicinity. They shortly answered the question of living in peace with one another with a resounding, “No.”

Jesus, in John, Chapter 4, takes a different tact. He walks right into a place he doesn’t “belong” – Samaria. He seeks a deep conversation and understanding with a woman He meets there. He holds out promise for resolution saying, “Yet a time is coming and has now come when the true worshipers will worship the Father in the Spirit and in truth…” He is not afraid of discussion – instead He trusts that discussion will lead to resolution.

But how do we live together until that resolution? Jesus has words that challenge us to love what we don’t yet understand. He holds out a standard of love:  “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you (Matthew 5:44).” By example He shows us that we won’t understand people, and we won’t resolve conflicts with them if we are not willing to begin with love and then seek understanding. That’s exactly what He did when He came to earth; He came to love and help us understand His care for us.

Join us Sundays, as we seek to understand Jesus and others better in a new series, “Coexist,” beginning Sept. 20.  And don’t miss our special guest on Oct. 4 – Dr. Adam Francisco, Assistant Professor of Historical Theology at Concordia University Irvine (whose Doctorate is in Muslim-Christian Relations) – as he teaches on Christian and Islamic relations.

Edgewater Lutheran Church meets Sundays at 10 a.m., worshiping at Harada Elementary, 12884 Oakdale Street, Eastvale, CA, 92880;http://www.EdgewaterLutheran.org.

Leading Or Leaving?

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

As I shared in my last article, I recently “passed the baton” to a younger pastor at our church.  My wife and I have served at the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar for over 27 years.  But, as of Sept. 1, we have a new senior pastor. His name is Tim Park.

Tim has a wonderful wife and two teenagers.  He has served at various churches and has been on our staff for over three years.  He is a good shepherd and a good communicator with lots of energy and enthusiasm.

Part of the transition plan that our church adopted included the opportunity for my wife and I to continue to attend and serve here.  Tim will be the new senior pastor and I will work under his leadership in various ministries at our church.

The best way I have explained it to our people is, “I’m not leaving; I’m just not leading.”

We love the people at our church and want to continue to serve them.  We are thankful for all the help and support my wife and I have received from these friends over the years.

We don’t want to leave.  But, we realized it is time for a younger couple to lead.  So, “We are not leaving, we are just not leading,” as a younger pastor on our staff takes the pilot’s seat at our church.

I suppose many of us face the same question: When is it time to let younger people lead a church, business or other organization?  When is it time to pass the baton to the next generation?

There are not any simple answers to this question.  I’m sure that each situation and each leader is different.  But, the reality is that each of us in leadership will eventually need to hand over the baton to another member of the team.

The leaders at our church read a variety of books and articles on the topic of transition.

One theme that we found is that wise leaders should already have a transition plan in place.   Every company and organization should prepare a transition plan in case the leader leaves unexpectedly, is unable to lead due to health or other issues, or simply retires.

The second lesson that was emphasized in many books and articles was that wise leaders should always be preparing and training future leaders.  One of the greatest privileges and responsibilities of leaders is to be training and mentoring younger men and women for future leadership responsibilities.

My wife and I are thankful for the privilege of leading our church over the past 27 years, and we are grateful that our church has encouraged us to continue to serve here. We are thankful for the new senior pastor, Tim Park, and look forward to serving under his leadership.  I hope you will come and visit our church and get to know our new senior pastor.

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 Announces New Fire Safety Specialist

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale Sandie Hastings, Fire Safety Specialist

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale
Sandie Hastings, Fire Safety Specialist

Staff Reports

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale is pleased to announce a new Fire Safety Specialist, Sandie Hastings.

Hastings comes from the City from the Torrance Fire Department, where she worked as a Fire Prevention Officer for 21 years. Prior to her position in Torrance, she worked as a Fire Inspector for the La Habra Fire Department.

Hastings is a graduate from Columbia Southern University, with a Bachelor’s Degree in Fire Science. She has always embraced training opportunities and has had the privilege of attending the National Fire Academy several times. Hastings also holds three certifications from the International Code Council (ICC). Her experience includes new construction inspections, developing policy updates, creating fire code training programs for engine company personnel, public counter plan checks, and providing code interpretations.

Hastings has been an active participant in the Southern California Fire Prevention Officers’ Association, where she is on the executive board as the First Vice President. She has attended the ICC code hearings in Dallas and New Jersey, and has served on the Automatic Extinguishing Systems Advisory Committee for the California State Fire Marshal for several years.

With Hastings, the City of Eastvale is looking forward to continuing to provide a high level of personalized service to residents and the development community. The Fire Safety Specialist position will keep the turn-around time on inspections and plan checks at approximately ten days. This position also provides onsite staffing to assist the general public, as well as fire inspections for the City, and fire code/municipal code related development and implementation.

Fire Safety Specialist Hastings can be reached at (951) 737-8097, ext. 4707; or at sandie.hastings@fire.ca.gov.