Category Archives: Pomona

Pomona-Coffee With A Cop

Staff Reports

Join Police Chief, Paul Capraro, along with officers from the Pomona Police Department, for “COFFEE WITH A COP” on Feb. 11, from 8 to 10 a.m. The event will be held at Jack in the Box, located at 2098 S. Garey in Pomona. Coffee With A Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Pomona neighborhoods. A free small cup of coffee will be offered to those who participate in the event.

Freemont Femineers Explore Careers

A group of Fremont Academy students, called the Femineers, learn how to build wearable technology from Cal Poly engineering professors and female engineering students. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

A group of Fremont Academy students, called the Femineers, learn how to build wearable technology from Cal Poly engineering professors and female engineering students. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – A group of female students at the Fremont Academy of Engineering and Design are breaking through barriers and embracing career paths in science, technology, engineering and math – helping to lead the next generation of women into STEM careers.

Known as the Fremont Femineers, the group consists of 24 girls in Grades 10 and 11 – the top students in their class – who engage in hands-on STEM activities, including robotics and wearable technology.

“I’ve heard many times that STEM is not for girls, but they’re wrong,” said Elena Guzman, an 11th Grader and President of the Femineers. “These girls are smart and do amazing projects, and we were chosen because we’re full of potential. I think we’re a great group of girls who are going to do great things.”

The Fremont Academy of Engineering and Design is a Grade 7 to 12 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) school, composed of an equal number of boys and girls, all of whom take engineering classes.

The Femineers was created in 2013 in partnership with Cal Poly Pomona’s College of Engineering and is guided by the belief that girls will thrive in STEM careers if they are given the opportunity. The College, which has an 18 percent female enrollment, supplies the funding and academic support to sustain the three-year program.

The program provides students with project-based learning, female engineering student mentors and college counseling while building a sustainable community of current and future STEM leaders. They are now the subject of a PLTW documentary.

“The Femineers are treading ground in what has historically been a male-dominated industry,” said Fremont engineering and computer science teacher, Scott Lukesh, who runs the program and was recently recognized by PLTW for his commitment to being a master teacher. “It’s a field that we can change. It’s a difficult thing to do, but there’s no stopping this revolution, and I believe the Femineers can make a real impact at Fremont, Cal Poly and beyond.”

This month, Cal Poly Pomona engineering professors and female engineering students are bringing their expertise to lead the Femineers in building wearable technology. This new industry incorporates computer and advanced electronic technologies into clothing and accessories with the vision of weaving technology into everyday life. Last year, Cal Poly and the Femineers built creative robots.

A Femineer Excursion to Lake Arrowhead is planned for Jan. 28 to 30 to complete wearable technology projects and build a strong community amongst themselves.

“I want these girls to be empowered to know that they can do anything they set their minds to,” said Lukesh, a 25-year educator. “We need to have projects like this to show girls and their families that they’re good at it. The world needs them.”

“The Femineers program has the amazing capability of changing the dynamic of the STEM field,” said PUSD Superintendent, Richard Martinez. “It’s a unique pathway that provides innumerable opportunities for these accomplished young women, who are already trailblazers in the STEM world, to learn the concepts, develop the skills and build the confidence to be successful after high school.”

For more information on the Femineers, visit www.facebook.com/fremontfemineers.

Pomona’s ‘Officer Robbie’ Retires After Impressive Career

Staff Reports

Corporal Rick Aguiar with Officer Robbie (Photo Courtesy of Pomona PD)

Corporal Rick Aguiar with Officer Robbie (Photo Courtesy of Pomona PD)

Pomona – One of the Pomona Police Department’s K9 Officers, Robbie, retired this past week after a very remarkable eight year career in service at the City of Pomona.

Robbie is a Belgian Malinois, who was born and trained in Holland before coming to Southern California to work in law enforcement.

Robbie worked with his partner, Corporal Rick Aguiar, and together the team holds some very impressive statistics:

  • 50 criminals apprehended
  • 15 guns recovered during article searches
  • $1.5 million in cash seized
  • 160 kilos of cocaine seized, valued at $3.2 million
  • 3 kilos of heroin seized, valued at $75,000
  • 81 pounds of methamphetamine seized, valued at over $1.2 million
  • 385 pounds of marijuana seized, valued at over $1.5 million

The Pomona Police Department’s K9 Unit will be selecting a new K9 partner for their newest team – a team that has some pretty big shoes/paws to fill.

Corporal Aguiar will continue to care for Robbie while he enjoys his retirement years, as partners for life.

Pomona Unified School District Celebrates New Dental Health Center

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – The Palomares Academy of Health Sciences held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Jan. 9 to celebrate the opening of a new school-based oral health center run in partnership with the Western University of Health Sciences (WesternU) College of Dental Medicine.  This is the fourth school-based comprehensive dental clinic in PUSD.

PUSD has worked in partnership with local universities, including WesternU, to offer students unique educational experiences and services. Since fall 2013, WesternU, in partnership with PUSD, began providing free and low-cost oral health services – including free dental exams, cleanings, fluoride treatments and sealants – to uninsured and underserved children ages 17 and younger. While meeting the needs of these children, the program also serves as a teaching laboratory for third- and fourth-year dental students, who perform all procedures under the supervision of licensed dentists.

Palomares is the opening of the fourth dental clinic at PUSD, with others located at the Mendoza Center, The Village @ Indian Hill and Alcott Elementary School.

Pomona: Pride Run Honoring Fallen Officer Shaun Diamond

Staff Reports

 

shaun-diamond-pomona            Pomona – On Friday morning, Dec. 19, recruits from the law enforcement academy from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, along with Pomona Police Officers, participated in a Law Enforcement Pride Run to honor Pomona Police Officer Shaun Diamond, who passed away in the line of duty on October 29.

The Pride Run is a traditional event that occurs at the conclusion of a law enforcement recruit officer’s training at the Sheriff or Police academy.  It typically marks the final physical fitness exercise for the class.

The Pride Run began at 7 a.m. at the Pomona Police Department on Mission Blvd, and traveled past the Pomona City Hall, Public Library, through downtown Pomona, and returned to the Police Department.

Diamond – a 16-year veteran in law enforcement and a member of Pomona’s SWAT Team – was assisting in the service of an allegedly gang-related search warrant in San Gabriel in the early morning hours of Oct. 28 when he was shot from behind (from inside the house).  He was transported to the hospital in critical condition.  He succumbed to his injuries the following day.

Officers participating in the Pride Run did so with a heavy heart and a great sense pride, not only in their own accomplishments, but in remembrance and honor for their friend and colleague, Officer Diamond.

 

Pomona: Vietnam Vet Inspires Garey High Students

By Juliette Funes

 

bob-wieland

Garey High School students meet motivational speaker Bob Wieland during an assembly on Dec. 10. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

Pomona – Vietnam Veteran, Bob Wieland, has been fighting the odds ever since the fateful day in June 1969 when he was pronounced dead after a landmine he stepped on exploded as he tried to save a fellow soldier. Miraculously, he was resuscitated, though he lost both his legs.            For more than three decades, Wieland has shared the compelling journey that led him to break world records in strength competitions, complete and finish marathons and walk across America on his hands. On Dec. 10, he continued to inspire as he told his story to hundreds of Garey High School students at an assembly, followed by a day-long round of visits to individual classrooms.

“The smallest deed done is far better than the greatest intentions,” Wieland said to students from his wheelchair in the middle of the Garey High gym. “Put your whole heart into everything and don’t ever let somebody else goof up your dream.”

Wieland was greeted with a warm welcome from the school’s U.S. Army Junior Reserve Officers’ Training Corps, who saluted him, along with Garey High’s cheer team and band. The National Anthem and flag salute kicked off the event.

“I can’t wait to see how his words will impact our students moving forward,” said Garey High Principal Stacey Wilkins. “It was such an honor for our school to have the opportunity to hear the words of wisdom spoken from Mr. Wieland.”

“It meant a lot,” Garey High freshman, Jonathan Lopez, said. “For kids who feel like quitting, this was really inspirational. It’s inspired me to do my best and just be thankful for everything I have.”

Other students said the talk showed them how important it is to set their own goals and not allow others to set goals for them.

“I think that some students are used to some people in the community, and even their parents, not expecting much of them,” said Karely Lozano, a Garey High senior. “This really shows them that they can do whatever they want to do in life.”

 

 

 

 

Pomona Unified School District Forges Alliance With 7-Eleven

By Juliette Funes

7-eleven pomona

Murchison Avenue 7-Eleven

Pomona – In its continued efforts to bolster services provided to students and their families through community collaborations, the Pomona Unified School District is forging a new partnership with 7-Eleven, who donated $7,011 during a check presentation ceremony on Dec. 11 at their Murchison Avenue store. The funds will support the District’s Mental Health Program.

All Pomona 7-Eleven franchisee owners – who will be regular contributors to the District’s charitable foundation, PUPIL; corporate representatives; and Cortez Elementary Math and Science Magnet School students, attended the festive event celebrating the gift and new community alliance.

The international convenience chain store’s donation will go toward the District’s Family Support & Resource Center, which provides mental health services and support to families who want to improve the quality of their lives and homes.

The Family Support & Resource Center supports PUSD students and families with a variety of services that address mental health, alcohol and substance abuse, domestic violence, health care and housing assistance. The center also provides emergency basic support referrals and assistance for clothing, food, utilities and school items. The Pomona Unified Partners in Learning (PUPIL) Foundation was created to raise needed funds to ensure the continued success of all PUSD students.

 

 

 

Pomona Crime Report

Staff Reports

pomona-policePomona – Following is a recent crime report for the area of Pomona. This information is communicated from the Pomona Police Department, and anyone with information regarding these incidents is urged to call the Department’s Detective Bureau at (909) 620-2085. For anyone willing to provide information who wishes to remain anonymous, contact “Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477 or “We-Tip” 1-800-782-7463.

 

Armed Robbery: On Tues., Dec. 9 at 12:21 a.m., Pomona Police Dispatch received emergency 911 calls reporting the Denny’s restaurant, located at 1504 Gillette Road, had been robbed by three armed individuals. Three suspects entered the restaurant wearing bandanas covering their faces and brandishing firearms. The suspects then forced the employees and customers to give them their personal property and cash from the register. The suspects ran from the restaurant to a waiting vehicle, which was described as a teal or blue passenger vehicle. The suspects drove off in an unknown direction.

Marijuana Cultivation: On Mon., Dec. 8 at approximately 8:17 p.m., Officers were dispatched to #10 Tanglewood Drive in the Phillips Ranch area of Pomona regarding a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the residence. When officers arrived, they confirmed the strong odor and observed suspect Ou Longsheng, 33, from Alhambra, exiting the residence. Upon further investigation it was revealed that suspect Longsheng was utilizing the entire residence to cultivate marijuana. Officers recovered approximately 800 marijuana plants totaling in excess of 280 pounds. In addition, officers recovered sophisticated electrical and lighting equipment used in the cultivation process. Suspect Longsheng was taken into custody and booked at the Pomona Jail for Marijuana Cultivation.

Shooting Incident: On Sat., Dec. 6 at approximately 1:57 a.m., the Pomona Police Department received several calls regarding numerous gunshots from Club La Luna, located at 3220 Temple Blvd. Upon arrival, Officers located a shooting victim outside the establishment, and were advised the suspect vehicle had just left the location. The victim’s injuries were serious, but non-life threatening. A short time later, officers received information that a similar vehicle was involved in a rollover traffic collision at the off-ramp at the 10 Freeway and Fairplex Drive. The suspects caused major injury to an innocent victim – including the death of the victim’s dog as a result of the collision – and fled the scene on foot. Officers conducted a search of the area the located two subjects who were identified as the suspects. Officers also located a handgun in the suspect vehicle. Both suspects were arrested and booked into the Pomona City Jail for Attempted Murder and Felony Hit-and-Run.

Shooting Incidents: On Sat., Dec. 6 at approximately 8:15 p.m., Officers were on the scene of two separate shootings, one in the 1300 block of Scoville Avenue, the other in the area of Lombard Street and Barjud Avenue. Both victims were adult males and each suffered non-life threatening wounds. At this time, there is no suspect information or motive in either shooting, but the two incidents do not appear to be related.

 

 

 

 

Pomona Unified School District Recognized As Digital Education Trailblazer

By Juliette Funes

 

Pomona – Pomona Unified School District (PUSD) Superintendent, Richard Martinez, was recently recognized as a connected_initiative_logoleader in integrating technology and innovation into the classroom during the White House’s “ConnectED to the Future” Superintendent’s Summit, where more than 100 superintendents and educators from across the country joined President Obama to discuss education, technology and the Future Ready Pledge.

Martinez was invited to participate in the day-long Nov. 19 gathering, which provided exemplary Future Ready school chiefs the opportunity to discuss digital education and learning and explore promising approaches to using technology in the classroom, an effort that PUSD has successfully led.

“I am proud that Pomona Unified has been able to stay ahead of the pack in our efforts to bring technology into the classroom and revolutionize learning, ensuring our students’ success and strengthening our rigorous and award-winning academic program,” Martinez said. “It is an honor for our District to be recognized nationally for what we have been doing to foster innovation, digital learning and student engagement through the effective use of technology.”

Martinez was among the leaders lauded by President Obama for offering children a world-class education and ensuring that technology, cutting-edge software programs and digital devices are within their reach.

“We’ve made gains in education thanks to the hard work of school leaders like you,” Obama told the superintendents. “Dropout rates are down. The graduation rate is the highest on record. More young people are earning college degrees than ever before.”

For several years, PUSD has incorporated technology into classrooms to equip students with 21st Century skills and promote an integral part of the new Common Core standards essential to flourishing in the digital world – communication, collaboration, creativity and critical thinking.

PUSD’s efforts recently earned two Golden Bell Awards from the California School Boards Association for the District’s innovative use of technology in Early Childhood Education and educational excellence at the Palomares Academy of Health Sciences.

Across the District, every PUSD classroom provides Internet access and campus-wide WiFi is expanding at all sites. Digital devices such as iPads, Chromebooks and laptops are available in PUSD’s K-12 schools, creating access, equity and excellence in educational technology. To prepare for online Common Core testing, 32 assessment-ready labs are being completed. Through community partnerships with EveryoneOn and Southeast Community Development Corp., PUSD is bridging the digital divide for PUSD families.

Additionally, PUSD offers students career pathways in computer science in partnership with Harvey Mudd College and Microsoft Corp., as well as courses in robotics through Cal Poly Pomona. Village Academy High School offers career courses in Film Studies and Computer Science/Information Technology.

“You’ve found innovative ways to reach your students and improve your schools,” President Obama said. “In your districts, I know there are just extraordinary teachers and principals who are putting everything they’ve got into making sure our kids are getting a great education.”

Obama launched the ConnectED Initiative in 2013. It is a five year program that aims to provide 99 percent of students with high-speed Internet connectivity at the classroom level.

As part of the summit, the President hosted a Future Ready blended learning pledge ceremony, where Martinez and other superintendents who exemplify outstanding school leadership and strategies formally signed the pledge on tablets, joined virtually by 1,200 educational leaders nationwide.

“By signing the Future Ready Pledge, I am reiterating my commitment to continue leading a culture of empowerment, providing families universal access to powerful digital tools to support learning and preparing our children for success in college and career,” Martinez said.

 

 

 

Murder At Motel 6 Pomona

Staff Reports

motel6pomona

The Pomona Motel 6, located on South Garey Avenue. (Photo Courtesy: Motel6.com

Pomona – On Sat., Nov. 29 at approximately 8:40 p.m., Pomona Police Officers responded to a disturbance at the Motel 6 on the 2400 block of South Garey Avenue. At the scene they discovered an adult female, deceased in one of the rooms.            According to the Pomona Police Department, Yvette Silva was found to be stabbed to death. The motive for the murder is still unknown at this time. Silva was the mother of a 12-year old son.Pomona Homicide Detectives have investigated every lead in an attempt to find the suspect in this murder, and they have identified Alex Clever, 26, from Pomona. Clever – an acquaintance of Silva – was recently released from prison and was currently on Post Release Community Supervision. The San Gabriel Valley East AB-109 Task Force arrested Clever as he rode a bicycle away from his parents’ home in the Phillips Ranch community in Pomona. He was taken to the Pomona City Jail and booked for murder.

The San Gabriel Valley East AB109 Task Force is a multi-agency team comprised of officers from nine agencies and includes representatives from the LA County Probation Department and the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office. Their primary responsibility is to conduct compliance checks on those individuals who have been released from prison under AB109 to ensure that they are in compliance with their terms of release. The Task Force is responsible for enforcement in the cities of Azusa, Baldwin Park, Claremont, Covina, Glendora, Irwindale, Pomona, La Verne, West Covina and Whittier.

Anyone with information regarding this homicide is urged to call the Pomona Police Department’s Detective Bureau at (909) 620-2085. Anyone willing to provide information, who wishes to remain anonymous, is urged to contact “Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477, or “We-Tip” at 1-800-782-7463.

 

 

Pomona: Superintendent Martinez Selected For Summit At White House

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – Richard Martinez, Superintendent of the Pomona Unified School District (PUSD), was selected by the U.S. Department of Education as one of 100 top school leaders from across America to participate in the first-ever National Connected Superintendents Summit, held on Wed., Nov. 19, at the White House.

Martinez is among exemplary local school chiefs who will be recognized for their leadership in helping transition their districts to digital learning. This unique conference will bring together officials throughout America to share promising approaches to using technology in classrooms.

“It is a tremendous honor and privilege to be invited to the White House to represent the Pomona Unified community and showcase the innovative ways our talented teachers are revolutionizing digital learning and education in the classroom,” said Martinez. “We are excited to be recognized for being trailblazers in the world of digital education and are proud to be a model of success that other schools can replicate.”

PUSD recently won two Golden Bell Awards from the California School Boards Association for its innovative use of technology in Early Childhood Education, and educational excellence at the Palomares Academy of Health Sciences. The District offers its students career pathways in computer science in partnership with Harvey Mudd College and Microsoft Corp., and courses in robotics through Cal Poly Pomona. Village Academy High School offers career courses in Film Studies and Computer Science/Information Technology.

Every PUSD classroom has Internet access District-wide.  32 Common Core/SBAC assessment-ready labs are being completed, and campus-wide Wi-Fi is expanding at all sites across the District. Mobile devices such as iPads, Chromebooks and laptops are available in PUSD’s K-12 schools, bringing educational technology into the classroom. Through community partnerships with EveryoneOn and Southeast Community Development Corp., PUSD is bridging the digital divide for District families.

“School districts across the country are helping teachers harness the power of technology to create personal learning environments for all students,” said U.S. Secretary of Education, Arne Duncan. “We want to make sure every child – whether he or she is in the inner-city, in a rural community or on a Native American reservation – has access to knowledge and the chance to learn 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

The White House summit will be followed by a series of 12 to 15 regional summits that will focus on the digital progress made possible by local school districts.  The events will also include the unveiling of digital tools that facilitate incorporation of technology into short-term and long-range education planning.

To help spotlight the value of technology in schools, the Education Department is sponsoring a Future Ready Initiative aimed at showcasing outstanding school leadership and strategies.

“The Future Ready Initiative highlights the critical role of district leaders in setting a vision and creating the environment where educators and students access the tools, content, and expertise necessary for thriving in a connected world,” said Richard Culatta, Director of the Department’s Office of Educational Technology.

Future Ready superintendents demonstrate effective use of technology in some of the following ways:

 

  • Fostering and leading a culture of collaboration and digital citizenship;
  • Transitioning schools and families to high-speed connectivity;
  • Empowering educators with professional learning opportunities;
  • Accelerating progress toward universal access to quality devices;
  • Providing access to quality digital content;
  • Creating access, equity, and excellence – particularly in rural, remote, and low-income districts;
  • Offering digital tools to students and families to help them prepare for success in college;
  • Sharing best practices and mentoring other districts in the transition to digital learning.

 

“Technology has the potential to transform education in America, allowing students to learn more, to do so at their own pace, and to develop the knowledge and skills employers demand,” Culatta said. “And yet, fewer than 30 percent of classrooms have the broadband Internet to support today’s education technology needs.”

In June 2013, President Obama announced the ConnectED Initiative, starting with a goal of connecting 99 percent of students to next-generation connectivity within five years. Model schools and districts across the country are using technology to create personalized learning environments; technology will play an increasingly crucial role in the future.

For more on the work of the Department’s Office of Educational Technology, including resources for students, parents and educators, visittech.ed.gov.

 

 

 

 

Pomona: Local Students To March In Rose Parade

By Juliette Funes

 

rose-parade-diamond-ranch-band

Diamond Ranch High School students Jasmine Villatoro (flag), left, Ismael Rodriguez (tuba), Nicole Hernandez (banner) and Alissa Rodriguez (banner), were selected to perform in the Tournament of Roses Honor Band on New Year’s Day in Pasadena. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

Pomona – 11 marching band and color guard members from the Pomona Unified School District won coveted spots in the Tournament of Roses Honor Band and will make their debut at the 126th Tournament of Roses Parade on New Year’s Day in Pasadena.            The Pasadena City College Tournament of Roses Honor Band – which has marched in every Tournament of Roses Parade since 1930 – chose for its 2015 band seven students from Garey High School and four from Diamond Ranch High School. From Garey, they are Miguel Saldana, Armando Santana, Angelica Arechiga, Christopher Chavez, Isabel Ibarra, Mireya Munguia and Jose “JJ” Cachu. From Diamond Ranch, they are Ismael Rodriguez, Alissa Rodriguez, Nicole Hernandez and Jasmine Villatoro.

“It is a great honor and privilege for these immensely gifted students to be given the opportunity to perform in the Tournament of Roses Parade, where they will showcase their talents to millions of viewers from around the globe,” said Board of Education Member, Dr. Roberta A. Perlman.

rose-parade-garey-band

Garey High School students Miguel Saldana (snare drum), left, Armando Santana (tenor sax), Angelica Arechiga (banner), Christopher Chavez (trombone), Isabel Ibarra (banner), Mireya Munguia (clarinet) and Jose “JJ” Cachu (herald trumpet) were selected to perform in the Tournament of Roses Honor Band on New Year’s Day in Pasadena. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

Students from throughout the southland auditioned on Oct. 12 at Pasadena City College for a chance to perform in the band, comprised of exceptional high school musicians from throughout Southern California. Of those who auditioned, only 232 were selected, marking an impressive showing for Pomona Unified.

“It was an intense audition process for these students, who were scored on their technical ability, timing and sound,” said Garey High School Band Director Robert Lawe. “Now, they have one of the largest forums in the world to demonstrate their creative skills.”

“It’s an exciting feat to have so many of our students chosen to perform at the Rose Parade, and I couldn’t be more proud of their accomplishments,” added Philip Ruiz, Band Director at Diamond Ranch High School.

Members will practice every Sunday in November and December and almost every day during winter break to prepare for the trek. The Tournament of Roses Parade is seen by hundreds of thousands of people along the parade route in Pasadena and is broadcast to 200 territories and countries world-wide.

“I want to congratulate these students, along with the band directors at Garey and Diamond Ranch high schools, for earning the opportunity to perform in the world-famous Rose Parade and shining a light on the successful visual and performing arts programs at Pomona Unified,” said PUSD Superintendent Richard Martinez. “They are an inspiration, and I can’t wait to cheer on these standout students as they walk the six-mile parade route down Colorado Boulevard.”

 

 

 

Pomona: Ice Skating Coach Gets 98 Years For Molestation

STAFF REPORTS

donald-vincent

Donald James Vincent (Photo Courtesy: LA Weekly.com)

Pomona – Donald James Vincent, former ice skating coach, and convicted child molester, received a sentence of 98.8 years to life in prison at Pomona’s Superior Court on Thurs., Nov. 6.

Vincent, 31, was found guilty by a jury – who deliberated for less than a day – back on Jan. 28 on one count of continuous sexual abuse of a child, two counts of lewd acts upon a child, two counts of forcible lewd acts on a child, and five charges relating to sex acts with a child under the age of 10.

Vincent had worked as a coach at various ice rinks throughout Los Angeles, Riverside and Orange counties since 2006. He was arrested in Jan. 2013 on charges relating to students at the Paramount Iceland rink on molestations that occurred between 2007 and 2011 at Vincent’s home in Hacienda Heights (and another residence in Downey).

It is reported that the male child involved – who was between 12 and 15 years old at the time – kept the abuse hidden until he told a friend two years later. The boy was encouraged to come forward to authorities which resulted in Vincent’s arrest. Officials encouraged others to come forward as well, which resulted in additional charges against the accused with a female student less than 10 years of age.

The District Attorney’s Office has reportedly stated that Vincent was also ordered by the Court to pay more than $3.5 million in restitution, as well as register as a sex offender.

Vincent has been held without bail since his arrest.

Pomona: PUSD Supports Educational Success

BY JULIETTE FUNES 

Pomona – Pomona Unified parents and educators recently gathered at Harrison Elementary School for the 3rd Annual Readiness Conference, a program geared toward providing African American parents guidance on how to support the education of their children from birth to 8th Grade.

To support the continued success of PUSD students, the mini-parent conference, sponsored by the Pomona Alliance of Black School Educators (PABSE) and Pomona Unified, provided information on the new Common Core State Standards, the Accelerated Reader program and locally available resources to promote literacy, math and overall student enrichment.

“This parent program is just one of many that we encourage PUSD families to engage in as it enables them to have a direct impact on their child’s development and learning,” said Board of Education member Adrienne Konigar-Macklin. “Our students deserve the very best education possible and building partnerships and relationships with our parents and entire community is critical to ensuring their bright futures.”

This year’s Readiness Conference took place Oct. 25 and aimed to teach parents skills and strategies to promote student readiness. Educators prepared hands-on activities and individual workshops by grade level. Speakers also emphasized the parental role in academic achievement through strong, nurturing home environments while reinforcing positive proactive parent/teacher relationships and promoting programs that respond dynamically to students and their parents for overall well-being and success.

Parents also received information on how to support a nutritious and healthy lifestyle, which is foundational for academic readiness.

“Our goal is to adequately prepare our parents for their child’s future and getting their children ready for the next level in their academic career,” said Harrison Elementary School Principal and PABSE President, Shandria Richmond-Roberts. “With the help of our excellent instructors and staff, parents were able to gain newfound skills and strengthened those which they already had.”

Jointly, PUSD and PABSE have developed several programs that take place throughout the school year to provide students in all grade levels with resources and enrichment activities to ensure their success in school and career.

“It takes a whole community to help develop a whole child, and thanks to this collaborative partnership, we are able to provide students and their families the resources that will lead to academic success and achievement at PUSD,” said Superintendent Richard Martinez. “It’s exciting to see our parents join in these efforts and continue to be the inspiration and encouragement their children need.”

 

Pomona: Pumpkin Patches Bring Nutrition To PUSD

BY JULIETTE FUNES

pusd-pumpkin-patch-allison

Allison Elementary School students explore pumpkin patches and learn about nutrition during a Pomona Unified Food and Nutrition Services outreach event on Oct. 28. (Photo Courtesy: Pomona Unified School District)

Pomona – In an effort to promote healthy eating and nutrition, Pomona Unified’s Food and Nutrition Services Division recently created pumpkin patches at Lincoln and Allison elementary schools, where students explored the setup and picked their own personal-sized pumpkin.

As part of the District’s Food and Nutrition Services Division’s nutritional outreach program, students were provided take-home packets that contained nutritional information, recipes and classroom projects. Lincoln Elementary School held its pumpkin patch event on Oct. 27, while Allison Elementary School held its event the next day.

“Between the two schools, more than 900 students participated in each pumpkin patch event, allowing some of our youngest learners to combine education and nutrition with classroom exploration,” said Director of Food and Nutrition Services, Daryl Hickey. “I want to thank our Food and Nutrition Services Department for sponsoring the interactive activity and guiding our students on how to eat healthier meals.”

Classrooms took turns visiting the display, which was decorated with bales of hay and corn stalks, as well as giant sized pumpkins. Students learned about harvest time, health and nutrition, and were able to take pictures.

In addition to the pumpkin patches, Food and Nutrition Services provided each classroom with its own pumpkin and every student with a miniature pumpkin of their own. The staff was also on campus to guide the students’ visit and provide them with additional health and wellness information and resources.

“Pomona Unified is committed to implementing strong school meal and nutrition education programs because of their impact on the improvement of our students’ health and academic performance,” said Superintendent Richard Martinez. “The dedication of our Food and Nutrition Services staff helps our students not only eat healthier meals at school, but also develop a healthy lifestyle at home.”

 

 

 

LA County: Operation Safe Halloween Rescues Pomona Child

STAFF REPORTS

County of Los Angeles – When the Special Enforcement Officers (SEO) set out in the pre-dawn hours of Halloween, they were looking to see if 66 of the Department’s highest risk child predators were in compliance with their court orders ranging from no child pornography on their phones or computers, to no candy or costumes in their homes used to entice children on a day famous for temptation. Deputy Probation Officers (DPOs) found much more than that on Halloween morning.

In a Pomona home, the SEO team entered to find a 32-year old sex offender in bed with a 10-year old girl.  According to the County of L.A. Probation Department, the probationer and another adult male were arrested at the scene, as was the mother of the girl.  The child was taken into protective custody by the Department of Children and Family Services. The SEO team also confiscated a methamphetamine pipe and marijuana. The contraband was taken to the Pomona Police Department for processing.

Another team – this time in Santa Clarita – arrested a 22-year old sex offender who was residing with his mother. The SEO team learned that the mother runs what appeared to be a child daycare service out of her home. A female tenant who also lived in the residence with her infant son and 9-year old daughter told SEO she had no idea the man was a convicted sex offender.

“Operation Safe Halloween is about ensuring probationers are in compliance with the law, but at its core, the Operation is about protecting children and we were able to accomplish that mission today,” said Assistant Chief Margarita Perez.

60 L.A. County SEOs deployed at 5 a.m. from eight staging areas Countywide, with a pre-dawn strategy to check on child sex offenders at a time when offenders least expect to be visited by law enforcement.

In total, five sex offenders were arrested and taken into custody, along with five computers, 13 USB sticks and memory cards, three computer towers, and drugs/drug paraphernalia were confiscated. The Department of Children and Family Services took one 10-year old girl into protective custody and is investigating the status of two other children involved in a home where a sex offender resided.

“Today is a perfect example of the value of going into the communities, into the homes of probationers to see who they are living with, what is their environment, and what is the real story of their compliance with the orders of the court,” says Special Enforcement Director, Eric Newby.

This is the third year L.A. County Probation has conducted Operation Safe Halloween.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pomona: Fallen Pomona Police Officer

STAFF REPORTS

swat-officer-shaun-diamond

(Photo Courtesy: Pomona Police Department)

Pomona – On Wed., Oct. 29, the Pomona Police Department reported the sad news that SWAT Officer, Shaun Richard Diamond, 45, had died.

On Tues., Oct. 28, in the early morning hours, Pomona Police SWAT Officers, including Diamond, were assisting in the service of a search warrant in San Gabriel. Diamond was shot during this operation, and was transported in critical condition to Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena. He was surrounded by his family and members of the department when he succumbed to his injuries the following day.

At the direction of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau, 36-year old David Martinez – a resident of San Gabriel – was initially booked by the Montebello Police Department for Attempted Murder on a Peace Officer. With the death of Officer Diamond, Martinez’ charges will be upgraded. He is currently being held in lieu of $4 million bail. Suspect Martinez’ criminal history includes assault with a deadly weapon and domestic violence.

Officer Diamond was a 16-year veteran in law enforcement, serving with the LAPD and the Montebello PD prior to joining the Pomona Police Department in 2006. He had been a member of Pomona’s SWAT Team since 2008, and proudly served the City in dozens of SWAT operations.

Diamond worked with the Downtown District Enforcement Team, providing service exclusively to the businesses and residents of Pomona’s downtown area. He was also a Field Training Officer, responsible for training new recruits from the academy. Diamond greatly contributed to many of the Department’s community outreach efforts, including K9 demonstrations, Special Olympics events, and SWAT demonstrations for local school children.

The Pomona Police Department states that they sincerely appreciate the outpouring of support from surrounding law enforcement, fire agencies, and the communities.

The Pomona Police Officers’ Association will be accepting donations on behalf of Officer Diamond’s family. Donations may be sent to them at 174 W. McKinley Avenue, Pomona, 91767. Please include Officer Shaun Diamond’s name on any donations or correspondence.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.  If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

 

 

Pomona Families Receive Free Health Services

BY JULIETTE FUNES

John_Quiamas

President of the Pomona Community Health Action Team and student physician, John Quiamas, gives a flu shot to a parent during PCHAT’s free community health clinic at Madison Elementary on Oct. 17. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Fines)

Pomona – More than 75 Pomona families participated in a free community flu immunization and health clinic organized by the Pomona Community Health Action Team (PCHAT), which was held in an effort to provide accessible health care and serve local residents’ medical needs.

PCHAT – a partnership between Western University of Health Sciences, Associated Pomona Teachers and Pomona Unified Health Services – held the event on Oct. 17 at Madison Elementary School.

“For those who may not have health care insurance, this event was a critical step in being able to access  health care providers and services, including basic medical checkups, screenings and immunizations at no cost,” said Pomona Unified School District Board of Education President, Frank Guzman. “Thanks to this decades-long coalition, we have continued to be successful in ensuring our community’s health.”

Western University students from the school’s doctor of osteopathic medicine, physician assistant, physical therapy and health professions education programs conducted the health screenings under the supervision of licensed physicians and other health care professionals. APT members provided snacks and beverages to faculty and students, as well as raised awareness about the fair to surrounding schools.

“For more than 30 years, PCHAT has served two purposes: affording health care services to those in need of medical care, and providing hands-on learning experiences to our future doctors and medical practitioners at Western University,” said Mark Maine, Pomona Unified’s Director of Student Wellbeing. “The collaborative nature of this project has enabled us to expand services to our local schools and help thousands of our students and families for free.”

Free services included full medical exams, sports physicals, blood pressure and Body Mass Index (BMI) calculations, as well as free flu vaccines and tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis (Tdap) vaccines, known to protect against whooping cough and other diseases.

“This year, Western University students will begin to follow up with the patients served to make sure they continue receiving treatment,” said PUSD Superintendent, Richard Martinez. “It’s exciting to see our local families and students taking advantage of PCHAT events and the resources available to ensure they are healthy and come to school ready to learn.”

Palomares Academy of Health Sciences, at 2211 N. Orange Grove Ave., will host the next PCHAT Health Fair on Nov. 14, with more clinics planned in the future.

 

 

Pomona: Pantera Elementary Awarded $12,000 Grant

BY JULLIETT FUNES

pantera-elementary-pomona

Darryl Montgomery, Wells Fargo President for the Eastern Gateway of Southern California, left, presents a $12,000 check to Pantera Elementary students, Jason Westrick and Dillon Marquez, and Pantera Elementary Principal Todd Riffell. The school will use the funds for a new copy machine. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

Pomona – Dozens of Pantera Elementary School students and their parents recently attended the school’s Math, Science and Movie Night, where they learned about the new math standards, explored robotics, watched a movie under the stars, and had a surprise awaiting them.

During the jam-packed event, hosted by the Diamond Bar schools’ Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), Wells Fargo President for the Eastern Gateway of Southern California, Darryl Montgomery, presented Principal Todd Riffell with a $12,000 grant check to go toward a new copy machine.

“This grant is a result of the great collaborative efforts among the parents and teachers at Pantera Elementary,” said Pomona Unified School District Board of Education President, Frank Guzman. “I congratulate them on their foresight to seek out what resources are available to support and enhance their school.”

As part of the event, guest speakers from Diamond Ranch High School presented their robotics program and Ganesha High School students held a science exhibit in the quad area, where young learners participated in hands-on experiments and learned about the programs at each school.

Additionally, math specialist, Grace Greenleaf, presented parents with information on the Math Common Core State Standards. Greenleaf encouraged parents to look for teachable moments, actively engage their children and help them gain fluency in basic math computation.

“As we continue our transition to the new Common Core standards, holding interactive events like these is imperative to provide a great foundation for parents to be involved in their students’ academic success,” said Superintendent Richard Martinez. “As a District, we are committed to working closely with parents as they help prepare their children for college and career.”

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 10.25.14

The-Weekly-News -10.25.14

The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link Oct25WeeklyAll  to access the complete Oct. 25th, 2014 issue in pdf format.