Category Archives: News By City

Delicious, Authentic Cuisine At Mandarin Taste

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

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

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – If you are searching for a wonderful dining experience with delicious, authentic food and great service, then look no further than Mandarin Taste.  A staple in the City of Diamond Bar for more than 27 years, Mandarin Taste provides a family-friendly atmosphere that keeps customers coming back again and again.

“We are like a family restaurant,” says manager, Chi Young, when describing how their customers feel when visiting.  “People are always smiling here,” he adds.

Mandarin Taste has thrived because they take pride in their recipes, and work hard to bring you authentic Chinese cuisine.  They specialize in Peking Duck, and the Ginger Lobster served at Sunday Brunch is a delicacy you’ll return for again and again.  Mandarin Taste is well known for their Wonton Soup, and customer favorites are the Crispy Shrimp, Walnut Shrimp, and the Fried Dumplings.

The Champagne Sunday Brunch is very popular, and features a variety of delectable dishes in an all-you-can-eat buffet presentation.  The champagne is all-you-can-drink, too!

The Mandarin Taste owners and staff want everyone who comes to their establishment to relax and enjoy themselves over the delicious food in their pleasant ambiance.  If you don’t have time to linger, you can call in a delicious order to go.

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

Pomona: Gang Members Convicted

Multiple counts of attempted murder send two men to prison

 

Staff Reports

Pomona – The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has announced two recent convictions of local gang members arrested by the Pomona Police Department.
A jury convicted Derek Joshua Sommer, 28, of 11 felony counts in his case: five counts of attempted murder, five counts of assault with a firearm, and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to the Pomona Police Department, Sommer’s co-defendant, Christian Miranda, 22, was recently found guilty in the same case of two counts, attempted murder and assault with a firearm.
Jurors also found true gun and gang allegations for both defendants.
Sommer is scheduled to be sentenced Sept. 8 in Department T of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Pomona Branch. Sentencing for Miranda is set for Sept. 11 in the same department and courthouse.
Deputy District Attorney Martin Bean of the Hardcore Gang Division said that on Oct. 4, 2014, defendants Miranda and Sommer got into a fight with a group of men at a restaurant.  At some point, Sommer pulled out a gun and began shooting, injuring several men – including defendant Miranda. Following the incident, Sommer fled the scene, while Miranda and the victims were taken to the hospital for medical treatment.
On the day of the shooting, Miranda was taken into custody in connection with the attack, and Sommer was located and arrested the following week.

Both men face a possible maximum sentence of life in state prison.

Walnut Valley: Back To Class!

Walnut Valley begins 2015-16 School Year

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD School spirit showed during opening pep rallies held at Diamond Bar High on Aug. 17.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
School spirit showed during opening pep rallies held at Diamond Bar High on Aug. 17.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Over 14,600 students headed back to school in the Walnut Valley Unified School District on Mon., Aug. 17.

At Diamond Bar High, over 3,000 students cheered with classmates during two superhero-themed pep rallies held in the gymnasium.

“We’re welcoming everyone back today!” exclaimed Janna Van Horn, United Student Body (USB) advisor.

The extravaganza featured Drumline, Dance Company, Pep, and Song performances, and highlighted fall sports programs.

“I love the spirit here and how everyone is involved in the 4 A’s – Academics, Activities, Arts, and Athletics,” senior April Song commented.

Forty USB members organized the event during the summer.

“We put in a lot of hours to help our students have a better time on campus – especially the rallies,” added Song, the USB finance director.

At Westhoff Elementary, over 600 students and families waited for the first bell of the new school year. Many took photos to mark the first day near welcome banners and helium balloons.

For the opening class activity, kindergarten teacher, Roxanne Dennen, read the “Kissing Hand,” a sweet account of a young raccoon who was nervous on the first day of school.  The children’s book details a mother raccoon comforting her little one by kissing its paw.  After the story, Dennen asked parents to kiss their youngsters’ hands, before saying goodbye.

“You’re ready for kindergarten now!” she exclaimed.

“You’re going to learn so much this year,” Dennen said as they sat criss-cross-applesauce on lettered carpet squares.

At C.J. Morris Elementary, Carol Martindale’s 3rd Grade students loved the “First Day Jitters” story, because the teacher was also nervous about coming to school on the first day.

“It demonstrated that we all get excited and nervous about the first day of school and then we realize it is not so bad after all,” she said.

Collegewood Elementary 5th Grade teacher, Laura O’Donnell, also had memorable first day.  At the end of last year, a 4th Grader called to her and said, “Pick me for your class next year!” she recalled.  O’Donnell explained that she didn’t get to pick her students, but if she did, she certainly would.

“As luck would have it, he was on my class list,” O’Donnell shared. “When I walked down the line today to greet my students, he looked up at me, smiled, and whispered, ‘You picked me!’”

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Kindergartners heard the “Kissing Hand” during the opening activity of the 2015-2016 school year at Westhoff Elementary (shown with teacher Roxanne Dennen).

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Kindergartners heard the “Kissing Hand” during the opening activity of the 2015-2016 school year at Westhoff Elementary (shown with teacher Roxanne Dennen).

 

Walnut Council Recap

Photo Courtesy: Google

Photo Courtesy: Google

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – Mayor Bob Pacheco began the Aug. 12 Walnut City Council by recognizing employee, Alicia Jensen, Deputy Community Services Director. Through Jensen’s hard work and efforts, City planned events run smoothly and successfully, and all members of the Council praised her hard work.

After Jensen’s recognition, Michael Cacciotti, a board member from the South Coast Air Quality Management District, made a presentation on the levels of pollution in the Southland, most notably the negative effects of air pollution from diesel engines in vehicles such as trucks or ships, among other sources. Cacciotti concluded the presentation on ways to reduce air pollution, such as bicycling or commuting as opposed to driving, and using electric landscaping devices like electric lawn mowers and leaf blowers.

Following Public Comments, the Council approved several items on the Consent Calendar, including a resolution allowing Walnut $934,178.50 in certain claims and demands; an amendment between Walnut and Silver & Wright, LLP; final acceptance of a Parcel Map of Avenida Esplendor; a request to proceed with formal bids for business license software; a waiver of parking restrictions on La Puente Road; final acceptance for installation of speed bumps on Yale Avenue; final acceptance for the installation of a guardrail on Gartel Drive; and the appointment of Bella Cristobal to the Parks and Recreation Commission.

The Council then denied a license agreement between the City and Verizon Wireless, after residents expressed concern about the safety and aesthetic appeal of installing a cell tower in Snow Creek Park. The Council also denied a contract to MIG, Inc. to prepare a General Plan Update. Although the General Plan has not been updated since 1978, the Council is still seeking a lower bid for the contract.

The meeting adjourned with plans to meet again on Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Rowland Heights: Buckboard Days Scholarship Pageant

Photo Courtesy: BuckboardDaysParade.org

Photo Courtesy: BuckboardDaysParade.org

By Gina Ward

Rowland Heights – With an outpouring of community and business support, a new scholarship pageant has launched to help local high school students receive funds for college/career plans.

The Miss Buckboard Days Scholarship Pageant will be held on Sat., Sept. 12, 11 a.m., at the Rowland Heights Community Center (18150 E. Pathfinder Road, Rowland Heights).

The scholastic event focuses on the spirit of giving which mirrors this year’s Buckboard Parade theme of, “Good Neighbors, Good Friends.” A distinguished panel of community members will judge students on community-focused speech presentations. A total of $1,800 in scholarships will be given with a $1,000 Scholarship, a $500 Scholarship and a $300 Scholarship. The Queen and her Court will ride in a traditional horse-drawn buckboard in the 43rd Annual Buckboard Days Parade and Festival on Sat., Oct. 17.

“We are excited to showcase this pioneering group of student contestants who truly showcase the values of our community, the skills being taught in our schools, and reward our top contestants with scholarship funds to help them reach their goals,” said Teri Malkin, Pageant Chair.  “We want to thank our many supporters including the Nogales High School Fashion Design Class that designed formal attire for some of the students, and support from the Rowland Unified School District and Family Resource Center.”

Student contestants are all juniors and seniors residing within the Rowland Unified School District boundaries.

The event is sponsored by the Buckboard Days Parade Committee, Diamond Plaza and support from Los Angeles County. More information can be found at buckboarddaysparade.org.

Walnut: New Mustang in Town

Brandon Dade takes helm at Walnut High

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Brandon Dade has been named the new principal at Walnut High School.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Brandon Dade has been named the new principal at Walnut High School.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District is pleased to announce that Walnut High School has a new leader. The Board of Trustees unanimously approved Brandon Dade as Principal during the July 15 meeting.

“I am excited to join the Walnut High team and am looking forward to working with students, families, teachers and staff,” Dade said.

The 15-year education veteran began his new post at the 2,700-student campus in late July.  Dade plans to kick off the first day of school by greeting students as they come onto campus.

“I’m going to be out in the parking lot, waving, and trying my best to say hello,” he said.

Once school is in session, he’ll visit as many classrooms as possible.

“Not only to see the students, but also to say good morning to the teachers.  “I’ll also be out talking to kids throughout the day. I want to be out there and available to students,” he added.

Dade recently met the Mustang staff during an opening meeting.

“We just had fun!” he said, adding the 150-plus staffers got to know each other better during a cross-curricular activity.

“I also shared some funny moments from my life and a video of a police officer singing Taylor Swift’s hit song, “Shake It Off.  I want them to think of this video and laugh when they have those ‘really?’ moments during the school year,” he added.

The new principal agrees with the existing school vision developed for students.

“My vision is to make sure that when students leave here, they’re ready for any post-secondary options, because the world changes so much from year to year,” he said.

Dade said he wants students to be foundationally well rounded.

“I just want them to go out there and dream big!”

Most recently, Dade served as principal at Augustine Ramirez Intermediate School in the community of Eastvale in the Corona-Norco Unified School District. Prior to that, he was assistant principal at Eleanor Roosevelt High School, also in Eastvale.

Additionally, Dade served four years as assistant principal and three years as a high school counselor at Alhambra High School. He was a teacher at Nogales High School and an elementary teacher.

Dade was previously a Los Angeles County children’s social worker. He is also fluent in American Sign Language.

The 6’4” administrator also played professional basketball in Europe and China for two years. He continues to utilize strategies from his days on the court as an educator.

“Being able to trust that everyone has a skill or unique talent and that I can help them use those skills, makes the team better.” Dade said.

“I look at the whole staff – classified and certificated – as being on one team. And when we have success, everybody contributes to that success. You stay together as a ‘we’,” he added.

Years ago, Dade attended middle and high school in a local school district. He was surprised to learn that his 7th Grade flag football coach and freshman basketball coach, Dave Smith, is a Walnut High teacher.

“I had no clue!” Dade exclaimed.  “I told him, thank you, because you helped me get to where I am today.”

Dade’s positive outlook is evident through his warm smile.

“I think I’m blessed to be where I’m at and that’s why I tell people ‘you’ll see me smile every day, no matter what.’ Great people around me have helped and supported me,” he explained.

“It feels like all the experiences I’ve had brought me to this point to be able to give back to the community.”

Dade is married and has three children.

He succeeds Jeff Jordan who was named Administrative Director of Educational Services in June.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Diamond Bar – Mayor Steven Tye began the Aug. 18 City Council meeting with several special presentations.

First, county librarian, Margaret Donnellan Todd, was presented with a City tile upon her retirement, ending a 37-year career and following 22 years of commendable service to Diamond Bar. Although the Council was saddened at the thought of her leaving, they praised her for her hard work and dedication.

Next, a City tile was presented to Graybar Electric of Diamond Bar, a Fortune 500 company, as the Business of the Month for August 2015.

Finally, Carlos Gonzalez was recognized as an exemplary citizen for his actions in December 2014, when he assisted a fellow Diamond Bar resident in need of emergency medical attention. Although the resident passed away, Gonzalez’s actions allowed her to live out the last few months of her life comfortably, and it was in her last wishes for Gonzalez to be recognized by the City.

There was an update on the Grand Avenue Beautification Project, which began on May 20, and when completed will improve the intersections of Grand Avenue running through Diamond Bar Boulevard and Longview Drive. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen delays, the project will be delayed for an estimated six weeks, pushing the end date of the project from Aug. 12 to October 2015. Construction will continue Mondays through Fridays, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Following the public comments, the Council then read the schedule of future events, which included a Planning Commission meeting on Aug. 25 at 7 p.m.; a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Aug. 27 at 7 p.m.; a tentative City Council meeting on Sept. 1 at  6:30 p.m.; Labor Day Holiday on Sept. 7, during which City Hall offices will be closed; a Planning Commission meeting, on Sept 8 at 7 p.m.; a Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Sept. 10 at 7 p.m.; and another City Council meeting on Sept. 15 at 6:30 p.m.

The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including the Council minutes from Aug. 4; Planning Commission minutes from July 14; ratification of a check register dated July 30 through Aug 12, 2015 totaling $2.418,821.26; a resolution to join a national intergovernmental alliance to purchase janitorial supplies from Waxie Sanitary Supply; the next City Council meeting on Sept. 15; and an application for grant funds from the Recreational Trails Program Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act Fund for the Ridge Route Trail connecting to the Grand View Trail. The Council also agreed to appropriate $110,165 from traffic mitigation funds from the special funds budget to the Public Works Operating Budget; to approve a contract amendment between David Evans and Associates, Inc. for the Grand Avenue Beautification Project; and authorize the City Manager to execute a Use Agreement with Los Angeles County Flood Control to build a pedestrian bridge.

After a public hearing on Diamond Bar’s state of compliance with the 2015 Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program, the Council adopted a resolution that stated Diamond Bar’s conformance to the program.

Finally, Council appointed Raymond Wolf as the next Planning Commissioner, to fill a vacancy filled by Peter Pirritano, who relocated from Diamond Bar to Chino Hills. After the Council reports and comments, the Council adjourned with plans to meet on Sept. 15, 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

Walnut: RN Program At Mt. SAC

Bachelor’s Program in Nursing from Mount Saint Mary’s Now Offered

Photo Courtesy: Mt. SAC

Photo Courtesy: Mt. SAC

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – Recognizing the shortage of baccalaureate-prepared nurses, Mt. San Antonio College and Mount Saint Mary’s University, Los Angeles, will partner to launch a bachelor of science in nursing program on the Mt. SAC campus.
Classes begin Aug. 24 on Mt. SAC’s Walnut campus, with the goal of 30 students in the inaugural 2015-16 cohort. Mount Saint Mary’s will offer the Associate Degree in Nursing to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) Completion Program, and admissions for the program will be handled through the Los Angeles-based university.
“There is a growing need both locally and nationally for this advanced training,” said Dr. Susie Chen, liaison for the program. “Most hospitals now want nurses with bachelor’s degrees.”
The demand for registered nurses is expected to outpace the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. From 2012 to 2022, nursing jobs should increase by 19 percent.
“At Mount Saint Mary’s, we have made a major commitment to move more ADN students to BSN levels,” said Diane Vines, dean of nursing at Mount Saint Mary’s. “That’s why we created the RN to BSN Program, and that’s why we are pleased to partner with Mt. SAC. We want to help nurses reach this new standard in California’s hospitals and healthcare facilities.”
Through the educational partnership, classes will be held on the Mt. SAC campus and online, and will be taught by faculty from both colleges. The 35-unit program will consist of three continuous semesters of full-time study with core courses ranging from pediatric nursing to palliative care. Assigned hands-on clinical experience will be arranged in Mt. SAC’s local area.
Surveys have shown that more than 75 percent of Mt. SAC nursing students want to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
“We are honored to partner with Mount Saint Mary’s in this initiative. By working together, we have created a seamless process for students to first earn their associate’s degree through our nationally ranked program, and then take the next step and earn a bachelor’s degree from Mount Saint Mary’s excellent program. Our students will be well prepared to enter a surging job market and to lead the next generation of nursing professionals,” said Mt. SAC President and CEO, Dr. William Scroggins.
“This is a wonderful example of collegial collaboration in action,” said Mount Saint Mary’s President Ann McElaney-Johnson. “We have long been proud of the respect our nursing alums have earned in their field, and we are excited to join with Mt. SAC to help even more nursing professionals attain rising professional standards across California.”
Last year, Mt. SAC’s nursing program was ranked 13th among all nursing programs in the western United States’ community colleges in a survey by NurseJournal.org. Mt. SAC’s nursing program serves 240 students, and its students achieved a 91 percent pass rate on the 2014 state board nursing exam.
In 2014, Money magazine ranked Mount Saint Mary’s as its number one value-added college in the magazine’s evaluation of “Colleges That Add the Most Value.” Bright Hub, a web publication that focuses on technology, science and education, ranked the Mount at No. 9 in its U.S. ranking of “10 Best Colleges for a Degree in Nursing.” Mount Saint Mary’s BSN program is the oldest in California, dating back to 1952.

For more information, visit mtsac.edu and msmu.edu.

Walnut Protests Cell Towers

Photo Courtesy: Google

Photo Courtesy: Google

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – More than 800 Walnut residents received a small victory this month as their combined efforts caused the denial of two license agreements between the City of Walnut and Verizon Wireless for cell phone towers – one on Gartel Drive and another at Snow Creek Park.

According to Walnut resident, Heinrich Dy, more than 800 residents signed an online petition at kidsafegps.com, asking City officials to deny the installation of cell phone towers within 1,500 feet of any school and deny the license agreement for a proposed tower at 555 Gartel Drive. Dy and the other residents claimed that the area has no need for a new cell phone tower and that building one so close to residential houses, schools and parks would negatively impact the City, bring down property values and do not fit the usage of the area.

Dy claims that he has working knowledge of how cell phone coverage works, stating that he worked as a wireless network performance specialist for Microcell/Clearnet in Canada: he has also worked for Telus in Canada and Telstra in Australia – all of which are cell phone companies. Along with another resident, Cal Poly Pomona Electrical Engineering Professor and principal investigator at AT&T Bell Laboratories, James Yeh, the two are being called “expert witnesses” in regard to cell phone communication and voicing their concerns about Verizon’s plans.

“With my experience with cell phone companies, what I can say is that a simple drive test coverage map for telephone service is a basic tool that every engineering department of every cell phone company uses,” Dy said. “This knowledge is what allowed the residents to a) create our own maps; b) seek out crowd funded maps; and c) insist on those maps being made available by Verizon – which Verizon refused to provide even in repeated requests. It also allowed us to see that the supposed drive test map that Verizon provided was not the correct map needed to prove ‘significant gap.’”

While Dy and other residents are vehemently opposed to the new cell phone towers, representatives for Verizon Wireless claim that those estimated 800 residents do not speak for the entire city, and especially their Walnut customer base. During the Aug. 12 City Council meeting, Verizon Representative Jane Collier stated that 361 Verizon customers/Walnut residents voiced their approval of the cell phone towers via text messages from August 7-9. Collier stated that the text message was sent out to their Walnut customers as proof of the City’s need for another cell tower and that additional coverage is needed in parts of the City.

“Verizon has provided the City of Walnut with data to demonstrate the need for improved Verizon Wireless coverage and capacity in the area,” said Verizon Wireless Public Relations and Employee Communications representative for Northern California, Heidi Flato. “Customers are increasing their wireless use at a dramatic pace.”

Flato also mentioned that Verizon is expecting the demand for cell phone services to increase by 650 percent by the year 2018, and that the decline of landlines will cause a higher demand for cell phone service to avoid dropped calls to friends, family members and emergency services.

Flato also mentioned that Verizon’s research shows that good cell phone coverage is a positive aspect for perspective home buyers – meaning that increased coverage would make Walnut more appealing to homeowners.

Fellow cell phone tower protestor and Walnut resident, Angela Cinader, also brought up safety concerns for the tower, stating that cell phone towers constructed so close to schools and heavily populated areas have an inherent “risk of collapses and fires.” Cinader noted that if a cell phone tower were placed at either Snow Creek Park or Gartel Drive, Verizon would be putting adults and children in harm’s way.

“They keep coming back despite lack of solid evidence on significant gap and a thorough alternative sites analysis,” Cinader said. “But the fact that both the Planning Commission and the City Council have voted to reject these towers shows that our City government has considered all the evidence objectively, and we residents are grateful for that.”

While the estimated 800 petition signatures can celebrate in their victory for now, the fight is not over, according to Dy. After Verizon’s license agreement was denied on Aug. 5 and 12, the company will have 15 working days to appeal and once again attempt to approve their license agreement and build their new towers somewhere in Walnut.

Socially Speaking

By Sarah Sanchez

Eastvale – July was a busy month on social media with updates on construction, achievements, and criminals. If you are not following us on our Facebook page (facebook.com/EastvaleCommunityNews) or our website (www.anapr.com), make sure to do so today to stay up-to-date on what’s happening in the community.

Trending topics last month included our City Manager, Michele Nissen, who was honored as an Outstanding Rising Administrator; an ERHS student who received the national Alexander Hamilton Citizenship Achievement Award; and news releases regarding the arrests of a Target robber, a fraud suspect, and three suspects in shopping area vehicle burglaries.

A post that sparked a lot of conversation in the community was a picture of the field where the Silverlakes Equestrian Center will be built. The equestrian center will be capable of stabling and hosting world-class (possibly Olympic) events, and will include 25 soccer fields, a 5,000-seat indoor stadium, an outdoor arena and event center, picnic areas, and more – according to a story we previously published in April 2015. For more information about this project, visit our website and view the article titled, “Silverlakes: Back In Action.”

Our most popular post on social media was about a resident who informed the community to watch out for possible burglars trying to break into Eastvale homes. The resident mentioned that she recently witnessed a man running from her front door as she was returning to her driveway near Archibald and Schleisman. She witnessed two cars waiting for the running man, and they sped off in their vehicles. This post received 103 comments of concerned citizens tagging their family and loved ones’ Facebook pages. This post was also shared 96 times to alert other community members to be watchful.

Community members are encouraged to inform us regarding any crime that they have witnessed in the area. The reason we post this information to the community is not because we want to encourage citizens to complain about crime, but to provide the opportunity to share the incidents with other community members as a public service. We can use social media as a tool to catch criminals and hopefully send the message that they WILL get caught if they commit a crime in Eastvale. So remember:  never leave valuables in your car, be watchful of your home and your neighbors’ home, and report any suspicious behavior to the Eastvale Police Department by dialing 911 or (951) 955-2600. Let’s work together to stop crime in our City!

Our Facebook page also consists of new events, yard sales, 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 to our new monthly calendar, which includes a variety of meetings, events, and outings in the surrounding areas. We also post the online version of the full Eastvale Community Newspaper for you to download, save, and 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!

Chino Hills Burglary Arrests

Deputies prevent two burglaries as a result of immediate response to reports of suspicious subjects

 

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Chino Hills Deputies prevented two pre-dawn burglaries on Mon., Aug. 17, as a result of immediate response to reports of suspicious subjects in the area.  Five people were arrested for attempted burglary and conspiracy to commit burglary.
According to the Chino Hills Police Department, Trayvean Waever, 18; Terrell Small, 22; Isaac Metzmeier, 18 – all of Yucca Valley; Maurice Ross-Goodson, 19, of Joshua Tree; and a 17-year old juvenile from Pomona, were arrested on suspicion of knocking on doors and trying to remove screens from empty houses.
A resident called authorities at 3:35 a.m. to report seeing several suspects in the neighborhood knocking on doors in the 3200 block of Olympic View. When Deputies arrived on scene, four male subjects were seen fleeing the area on foot. The four suspects were found and detained, and a fifth suspect was found at a nearby park. The suspect’s vehicle was also found, parked in close proximity.
During the investigation, Deputies found a starter pistol – which is essentially a revolver with a plugged barrel that renders it incapable of shooting live ammunition, but looks like a functioning firearm. Detectives also uncovered evidence of a conspiracy between the suspects, who were planning to travel from the Yucca Valley area with the intent to commit burglary of empty homes in the Chino Hills area.
The Chino Hills Police Department would like to remind residents to make proper arrangements with friends, neighbors or family members to have their homes maintained while on vacation. Be sure to have mail and newspapers picked up, or suspended to avoid obvious signs that nobody is home.
 

Borrowing From Others

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

As we go through life, it seems that we are always borrowing things from our friends or neighbors.

When we were in grade school, many of us asked to borrow a pencil or piece of paper from a friend or classmate.  Parents and teachers tried to teach us that we needed to share with others.

Today, kids in school are asking to borrow a friend’s smart phone, tablet, computer or iPad.  How times have changed!

When we were in high school, many of us were eager to borrow the family car to go out on a date or with a group of friends.   The old family station wagon was a prized possession until we could afford a car of our own.

During the college years, it was not uncommon to borrow a text book or lecture notes from a classmate so you could catch up after you skipped a class.

As new home owners, we frequently asked to borrow a neighbor’s shovel or wheelbarrow as we planted landscaping or put up a fence.  Neighbors helped neighbors install sprinkler systems and new appliances.

If you owned a pickup truck, you were one of the most popular people on the block.  Personally, I never wanted to own a pickup truck, but I was sure glad to have a few friends who had one just in case I needed to borrow it!

As we get older, the items we need to borrow change.  At our church, we have a wheelchair and some crutches that people have donated.  People often borrow these items for themselves or for older loved ones.

Recently, I had surgery on my knee.  One of the items that I needed was an ice machine that enables you to wrap a flow of cold water around your knee or leg.  It sure helped!  My wife put out a request on Facebook and we received several replies.  I was surprised to learn how many people have had similar surgeries and owned an ice-wrap machine!  What does that tell you about the age and health of my peers?

There is a verse in the Bible that says, “Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely,” (Psalm 112:5).  God is pleased with those who are generous and willing to lend and share with others.

Let me encourage you to be more willing to share and lend the possessions and resources God has entrusted to you.  Be willing to allow others to use your shovel, wheelbarrow or crutches, just as others have been willing to share theirs with you.

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.

Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station Annual Picnic

Photo courtesy: www.ShotByMarc.com The Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station held their annual picnic on Sat., Aug. 8, at the Brookside Equestrian Center in Walnut. The event celebrates local Deputies, and provides some much-deserved down time to socialize with their families, friends and local dignitaries in a relaxed setting with lots of good food, games, and fun for little and big kids alike.

Photo courtesy: http://www.ShotByMarc.com
The Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station held their annual picnic on Sat., Aug. 8, at the Brookside Equestrian Center in Walnut. The event celebrates local Deputies, and provides some much-deserved down time to socialize with their families, friends and local dignitaries in a relaxed setting with lots of good food, games, and fun for little and big kids alike.

Pomona: Civilian Volunteers In Patrol

Pomona Police Department seeks local residents interested in becoming CVPs

Photo Courtesy: PPD

Photo Courtesy: PPD

Staff Reports

Pomona – The CVP program was created by the Pomona Police Department to allow civilian volunteers to help the Department achieve its goals, while helping to serve and protect the local community. CVP members play a vital role in helping to identify suspicious activities, crimes in progress (or other dangerous circumstances), and notify the authorities for proper handling. Some CVP members also help enforce the City’s parking regulations through the issuance of parking citations.
According to the Pomona Police Department, in order to be considered as a volunteer candidate for the CVP program, an individual must:
– Be an adult (18 years old)
– Complete an oral interview
– Submit to a background check
– Commit to participate in continual training classes
– Meet minimum driving standards
While CVP members are not law enforcement officers, they act as the Police Department’s “eyes and ears” in the community, requesting assistance from officers when needed. The CVPs receive training from the Department to assist with such areas as:
– Traffic Control
– First Aid and CPR
– Parking Enforcement
– Vacation and Business Checks
– Residential Patrols
– Assisting with City-sponsored events

If you have questions about the CVP Program, or would like to submit an application, please contact Officer Jung at (909) 620-3641, or Harry_Jung@ci.pomona.ca.us.

 

Pomona: Giveaway Provides 1,800 Backpacks To Students

By Juliette Funes

Photo Courtesy: PUSD Pomona Unified children line up to receive age-appropriate school materials, during the District’s Family Support and Resource Center's annual Backpack and School Supply Giveaway event on Aug. 5.

Photo Courtesy: PUSD
Pomona Unified children line up to receive age-appropriate school materials, during the District’s Family Support and Resource Center’s annual Backpack and School Supply Giveaway event on Aug. 5.

Pomona – Hundreds of Pomona Unified children received complimentary backpacks and school supplies at District Family Support and Resource Center’s annual Backpack and School Supply Giveaway on Aug. 5, a week before the start of the school on Aug. 12.

Now celebrating its fourth year, the event provided Pomona Unified families with more than 1,800 free backpacks filled with age-appropriate school materials, including books, pencils, folders and binders.

“With the start of school just around the corner, it is great to see our kids enthusiastic about getting their new backpacks and school supplies and I want to thank the Family Support and Resource Center for bringing this program to them,” said Board President Andrew Wong. “Through this event, the District is helping to ensure our students are able to focus on learning and successfully tackling the new school year.”

The Family Support and Resource Center supports Pomona Unified students and families with a variety of services and referrals that address mental health, alcohol and substance abuse, health care and housing, as well as emergency basic support referrals and assistance for clothing, food, utilities, furniture/household items or school items.

Originally organized to assist the District’s homeless student population, the backpack giveaway event has become a vital resource for Pomona Unified families and students who need school supplies and books for the new school year.

The items were donated by several community groups, including Feed the Children, Christ’s Church of the Valley in San Dimas and School on Wheels, which provides tutoring, school supplies and other educational assistance to children in Southern California.

For more information about the Family Support and Resource Center, call (909) 397-4491, ext. 26501.

 

Orange County: West Nile Virus Active

Photo Courtesy: nwmadil.com Mosquito breeding sources

Photo Courtesy: nwmadil.com
Mosquito breeding sources

Staff Reports

Orange County – The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD) would like to make residents aware, in portions of Northeastern Orange County, that mosquito and dead bird samples have tested positive for West Nile virus.
In 2014, Orange County reported the highest number of human infections of West Nile virus in the nation with 280, including nine deaths. OCMVCD uses more than ten years of sampling data collected during routine monitoring and testing of mosquitoes, dead birds, and human infections to determine areas of greater risk throughout the county.
To date in 2015, OCMVCD confirmed West Nile virus-positive test results from the cities of Anaheim, Cypress, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, Orange, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Ana, Tustin, and Yorba Linda. So far this year, OCMVCD has reported a total of 81 positive mosquito samples and ten dead birds. There are no reported human cases at this time. A total list of all positives can be found at www.ocvcd.org.
Mosquitoes acquire the virus when they feed on infected birds, and subsequently pass the virus along when they bite humans. There is no cure for West Nile virus.
Partnership to Protect Your Community: All mosquitoes need standing water to complete their life cycle. Even though OCMVCD Inspectors are conducting investigations to find mosquito breeding in communities all over Orange County, standing water sources remain unidentified. These unidentified sources are maintaining mosquito populations and threaten your quality of life. OCMVCD is asking for your help to find and eliminate hidden sources.
How You Can Help: It takes just two minutes of your time to help prevent future outbreaks of West Nile virus. Simply inspect your property and dump or drain any water found, and take the necessary steps to prevent the source from refilling. In addition to common breeding sources, above and underground remnants of our agricultural past (standpipes, well heads, irrigation channels) may be present on your property and can breed mosquitoes. This easy practice is the most effective method of controlling mosquitoes. If you observe any standing water not on your property, alert OCMVCD. An inspector will be dispatched to catalogue and treat the source with mosquito control products.
Residents can also take an active role in reducing the threat of West Nile virus by taking the following steps:
· Eliminate any standing water around your home.
· Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.
· Change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths, and other small containers weekly.
· Request FREE mosquitofish for placement in ornamental ponds.
· Make sure all window and door screens on your house are in good repair.
· Wear a repellent containing DEET®, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR 3535.
· Contact the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District to report dead birds or neglected pools by calling (714) 971-2421 or (949) 654-2421, or visit www.ocvcd.org

Summer Barbeques: A Cautionary Tale

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – On Wed., Aug. 5, Chino Valley Fire District firefighters responded to a barbeque fire on the 16000 block of Pipeline Avenue in Chino that resulted in minor injuries. Firefighters kept the fire from spreading to the patio and home by isolating it to the cooking station area. CVFD firefighter/paramedics treated a female patient for minor burn injuries.

Summer is a great time for get-togethers and barbeques, and the best way to ensure that your family and guests have a happy and memorable experience, is to exercise caution when using outdoor grills.

The Chino Valley Fire District offers the following guidelines and tips to help keep you safe.

Before Using Your Propane Grill:

  • Check all fuel connection points to confirm they are tight.
  • Check the fuel source hose for any leaks:
    • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle.
    • Turn the fuel source on. If there is a leak, the gas will release bubbles around the hose. If there are no bubbles, your grill is safe to use.
    • If there are bubbles, turn off the tank and check connections, then have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
    • If the leak doesn’t stop, call the Fire Department immediately.

When Turning On The Grill:

  • Make sure the lid is open when lighting the grill. This will help prevent a possible gas explosion.

When The Grill Is On:

  • If you smell gas while you are cooking, turn off the gas and burners.
  • If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
  • If the smell continues, move away from the grill and call the Fire Department immediately. Do not move the grill.

For more information on fire and life safety, contact the Chino Valley Fire District at (909) 902-5260, or visit their website at www.chinovalleyfire.org.

Pomona: PUSD Launches Immersion Program

English-Mandarin coming to Pantera Elementary

 

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – One class of Pantera Elementary kindergarteners will learn how to read, write and communicate effectively in both English and Mandarin through the introduction of the Pomona Unified School District’s latest dual-language immersion program.

Launched on Aug. 12, the first day of school for Pomona Unified students, the new program will provide Mandarin and English language instruction to 25 kindergarten students, ensuring they receive an exciting and challenging educational opportunity where they will gain the bilingual skills needed to succeed in a 21st century world.

The inaugural class at Pantera (located at 801 Pantera Drive in Diamond Bar) is already full, but Pomona Unified is accepting sign-ups for the 2016-17 academic year.

“Pomona Unified is incorporating this new English-Mandarin dual-immersion program to provide our students the tools they need to succeed in a globally competitive and multicultural market, all while improving their literacy skills and engaging in the District’s rigorous core curriculum,” Board of Education President Andrew Wong said.

The program follows a 50:50 model, where 50 percent of instruction will occur in the target language of Mandarin and 50 percent of instruction will be in English, including 30 minutes of daily English language development dedicated to English learners. The class is comprised of native English speakers and native Mandarin speakers, enabling both sets of students to interact and learn new vocabulary skills.

“This program presents our students with a unique opportunity to speak multiple languages both inside and beyond the walls of a traditional classroom,” said Pantera Elementary School Principal Todd Riffell. “Students’ education will be enhanced because of the cultural awareness, acceptance and rich language that is shared and exchanged between students enrolled in these classrooms.”

As students advance in the program, they will demonstrate proficiency in both languages, navigating complex material in English and Mandarin. Students enrolled in this program also have the chance to earn a State Seal of Biliteracy on their high school diplomas.

As part of the District’s 2015-18 Local Control and Accountability Plan, Pomona Unified is also expanding its English-Spanish language immersion program – which just completed its first year at Westmont Elementary – to Montvue Elementary School this fall.

“Pomona’s dual-language program embraces and acknowledges the rich cultural diversity of our community,” Superintendent Richard Martinez said. “By the time students reach the 6th Grade, they will have spent seven academic years immersed in bilingual, bicultural and biliterate studies, which will prove invaluable as they continue their education.”

For more information on the program, visit www.pusd.org/DLI.

Chino Hills: Station Implements Policy For Unsafe Driving

Focused enforcement coming to Carbon Canyon Road

Photo Courtesy: CarbonCanyonChronicle.com

Photo Courtesy: CarbonCanyonChronicle.com
Carbon Canyon Road is comprised of plenty of S-curve and hairpin turns, as well as high and low speed limits and a mostly two-lane highway running from Brea to Chino Hills.

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – As part of an ongoing effort to educate drivers and encourage safe driving practices on Carbon Canyon Road, the Chino Hills Police Department will be conducting focused enforcement for violations of the California Vehicle Code. Violations of speeding, unsafe passing on the left, crossing double-parallel yellow lines, and aggressive driving will be strictly enforced.

According to the Chino Hills Police Department, as this enforcement policy is implemented, they are asking drivers for their cooperation in operating their motor vehicles and motorcycles in a safe manner. The safe operation of a motor vehicle is the responsibility of every driver and they are seeking your help in reducing traffic collisions.

If you witness aggressive and reckless driving, please contact your local law enforcement immediately. For ongoing traffic problems, you can contact the Chino Hills Police Department directly at (909) 364-2000 or WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration defines aggressive driving as “the operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger persons or property.”  Common characteristics of the aggressive driver include:
• They are high-risk drivers, more likely to drink and drive, speed, or drive unbelted.
• Their vehicle provides anonymity, allowing them to take out their frustrations on other drivers.
• Their frustration levels are high; concern for other motorists is low.
• They consider vehicles as objects and fail to consider the human element involved; therefore, they seldom consider the consequences of their actions.
• They run stop signs, disobey red lights, speed, tailgate, weave in and out of traffic, pass on the right, make unsafe lane changes, flash their lights, blow their horns, or make hand and facial gestures.

The Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System statistics show that unsafe speed, improper turning, and unsafe lane changes are the top causes of traffic collisions. From August 2014 through July 2015, Carbon Canyon Road has experienced 3 fatal collisions, 91 injury collisions, and 105 property damage collisions all within the city of Chino Hills.
Carbon Canyon Road, also known as State Route 142, traverses through the city of Chino Hills and the city of Brea. This asphalt roadway mainly consists of one lane in each direction that is divided by double-parallel yellow lines, and the speed limit for a majority of the road is 45 MPH.

Please allow yourself sufficient time to travel to your destination as this heavily traveled roadway experiences the greatest congestion during early morning and late afternoon hours. Please act responsibly when behind the wheel, and drive safe.

Inland Empire: Deadly Shooting In Apple Valley

Staff Reports

Apple Valley – On Thurs., Aug. 6, at approximately 9:25 p.m., Deputies from the Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station were called to the 21000 block of Nisqually Road in reference to a shooting.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBSD), Deputies arrived on scene and found victims, Julian Kilgore, 23, and Richard Fenton, 21, both residents of Apple Valley, suffering from gunshot wounds. Kilgore was transported to St. Mary’s Medical Center, but despite life saving efforts, he was pronounced deceased that same night at 10:35 p.m.  Fenton was transported to an alternate hospital and is expected to survive.
Detectives from the SBSD Specialized Investigations Division-Homicide Detail were summoned to conduct the investigation

On Fri., Aug. 7, Arieon Shoulders, 23, of Victorville, was arrested and booked into the High Desert Detention Center for Murder.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Adam Salsberry or Sergeant Robert Warrick at (909) 387-3589. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463), or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.