Category Archives: Pomona

Pomona: Arrest of Attempted Murder Suspects

STAFF REPORTS

albertos-restaurant-pomona

Alberto’s located at 1925 W. Holt Ave., attempted murder scene. (Photo Courtesy: Yelp)

Pomona – On Oct. 4, the Pomona Police Department (PPD) investigated a gang related shooting that occurred at the Alberto’s Restaurant located at 1925 W. Holt Ave. During this incident, three of four victims were shot, including one of the suspects involved.

The suspect that had been shot was identified as Christian Miranda, 21, of Pomona, and according to the PPD, it appears that he was accidentally shot by the other suspect during the gunfire. Suspect Miranda was arrested on the night of the shooting and has been charged with four counts of attempted murder.

Through investigative leads the detectives were able to identify the primary shooter as Derek Sommer, 25, of Pomona, and were able to obtain an arrest warrant for five counts of attempted murder with a bail of $5 million.

On Mon., Oct. 13, the PPD received an anonymous tip that the suspect from the Alberto’s shooting was in the apartment complex located in the 1800 block of West Orange Grove Avenue. Patrol officers responded to this location and were able to locate and arrest Suspect Sommer without any issues.

Suspect Sommer is being charged with five counts of attempted murder with gang and weapon enhancements. Suspect Miranda is being charged with four counts of attempted murder with gang and weapon enhancements. Both Sommer and Miranda are known gang members, and Suspect Sommer is also on AB109 probation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Pomona Police Detective Bureau at (909) 620-2085. For anonymous tips, please contact Crime Stoppers (800) 222-8877 or We-Tip at (800) 782-7463. The Pomona Police Report Number is 14-111094.

Pomona: The Closure Of Lanterman Development Center

BY K.P. SANDER

lanterman-developmental-center

(Photo Courtesy: DDS)

Pomona – In January of 2010, the Department of Development Services (DDS) announced its intention to close the Lanterman Development Center (LDC), located in the City of Pomona on the borders of Diamond Bar and Walnut. The path toward closure has been a long and complex one.

The LDC, which occupies a little over 300 acres in Los Angeles County, has been providing 24/7 residential care for individuals with severe developmental disabilities for 87 years.

LDC opened its doors in 1927 with an acute hospital unit, nine client residences, a variety of training and work sites, recreational facilities, and staff amenities, and initially served over 3,000 residents.

According to their website, the mission of the LDC has always been to provide the highest quality services and supports to people with developmental disabilities who require concentrated health care and/or training to develop skills in which to enhance their independence – developing people’s highest potentials.

Once home to a multitude of individuals with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, Down’s syndrome, autism, and other lifelong severe mental conditions, the LDC strived to provide the utmost in care according to the laws and standards of the State of California. Their core values reflected SPIRIT: Service, Professional Commitment, Initiative and Creativity, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

In 2009, the LDC had 440 residents, with approximately 12 admissions and 27 discharges per year. With more than 1,200 staff to oversee the care of individuals throughout the 192 onsite buildings, they facilitated around-the-clock care with an annual budget of nearly $116 million.

With the closure of LDC rapidly approaching, all this has quietly come to an end. In January 2010, there were less than 400 to care for, and as of Sept. 24, only 22 residents remain at the facility. Staff has been redeployed, laid off, or left through natural attrition.

The DDS has maintained that the well-being of all who live and work at Lanterman to be of the utmost concern and priority, and put procedures in place to ensure a safe and successful transition for residents from LDC.

In their summer newsletter regarding the status of the closure, the DDS reports that 322 residents of the LDC have been transitioned to the community; 85 homes for individuals moving from the LDC have been licensed in accordance with Senate Bill 856; and 47 former residents have moved into Adult Residential Facilities for Persons with Special Health Care Needs.

The DDS has made mention of the dwindling population and the condition of the aging infrastructure as contributing factors, and the impending closure leads to speculation of what will become of those 300 acres.

The LDC is scheduled to close on Dec. 31, 2014.

 

 

 

Pomona: PUSD Celebrates 2014-15 Teacher of the Year

BY JULIETTE FUNES

Monica Whisenhunt-PUSD Teacher of the year 2014

Madison Elementary School teacher, Monica Whisenhunt, was named the 2014-15 Teacher of the Year for PUSD. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

Pomona – The Pomona Unified School District has recognized Madison Elementary School teacher, Monica Whisenhunt, as the 2014-15 Teacher of the Year for PUSD.

            Whisenhunt – who has taught Grades 3 to 6 throughout her 12-year teaching career at Madison Elementary – was honored for the achievement at the Los Angeles County Teachers of the Year Announcement and Awards Luncheon on Fri., Sept. 19.

“Monica grew up surrounded by educators, following in her mother’s footsteps, so it’s no surprise that she has come to be one of the best teachers we have in the District,” said Board of Education President, Frank Guzman. “I want to congratulate Monica for the excellent work she has done to make a difference in the lives of our students in the Pomona Unified community.”

Whisenhunt was nominated by her colleagues at the school and other teachers in the District. She was selected for the accolade by the Associated Pomona Teachers and the Pomona Unified School District.

“While I’m surprised that I was selected out of the hundreds of talented teachers we have in the district, it’s really nice to be acknowledged and recognized for working hard and being a dedicated teacher to my students,” Whisenhunt said.

Whisenhunt said she was inspired to become an educator after seeing her mother, a teacher at a continuation school, get stopped by former students to express their gratitude for what a positive influence she had been in their lives.

“It was obvious that my mother had made an impact on their lives through her kindness and dedication as a teacher,” she said. “Growing up with teachers, I would see the constant sacrifice and endless hard work they did to ensure success for their students.”

Last year, Whisenhunt partnered with Cambridge Education and immersed herself in the Common Core and best practices, and has served on several committees to learn and prepare for the changing dynamics of education.

“Although being a teacher has many challenges, I believe in my students’ potential, and it is always my goal to provide learning opportunities that will motivate and encourage them to be high achievers,” Whisenhunt continued.

In addition to her teaching responsibilities, Whisenhunt also serves as an executive board member with APT.

“Monica is a prime example of the committed teachers we have at Pomona Unified,” said Superintendent Richard Martinez. “Just like her mother, I know Monica will have a positive influence on her students’ lives.”

 

 

 

Pomona: Jay Walkers Beware

STAFF REPORTS

 

JAYWALK            Pomona – Traffic Safety has been a topic in the news quite a bit lately. With the seemingly increased number of pedestrian and bicyclist accidents and deaths, cities are cracking down on the rules of the road that apply to everyone.

As the Pomona Police Department says, Be Safe, Be Seen, and Be Smart, schooling us with the encouragement of the “3 Es of Traffic Safety: Education, Engineering and Enforcement.” Pomona has been working tirelessly on their campaign to reduce collisions and keep pedestrians and bicyclists safer. They have deployed electronic message boards reminding drivers to be attentive with over 250 hours of messaging. The next phase is to enforce the teachings.

You may be aware of the recent “Three Feet For Safety” law that went into effect on Sept. 16, mandating motorists to allow at least three feet between their vehicle and bicyclists moving in the same direction, or slow down and wait until it is safe to pass. Keeping that safer distance in check will help to reduce the number of collisions.

We’ve all heard that pedestrians have the right of way, but there are rules for them, too. According to the Pomona Police Department, there were 79 pedestrian related vehicle collisions in 2013. These collisions resulted in 69 injuries and 3 fatalities. The causes of these collisions can be attributed to drivers not yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks as well as pedestrians who unsafely walk onto the roadway, not conscious of their surroundings.

But we’ve all come upon the pedestrian that takes their right-of-way status a little too seriously. They cross in the middle of the street, and seem to slow down upon your approach. Sometimes they even look you in the eye, daring you to move.

Pomona Police investigators have concluded that some of our pedestrian related collisions were the cause of pedestrians disobeying a lighted traffic signal, suddenly running or crossing into the path of a vehicle, misjudging the speed and distance of a vehicle and alcohol consumption by the pedestrian as a contributing factor. UC Berkeley researchers have found that 30% of all pedestrian fatalities are related to improper street crossing.

The California Vehicle Code (CVC) prohibits pedestrian crossings at very specific locations, which leads us to the concept of “jaywalking,” or crossing between adjacent intersections controlled by traffic signals. Pedestrians do have a requirement not to cross a roadway that puts them in an immediate and dangerous conflict with a vehicle, and must use due care for their safety.

The Pomona Police Department says that now, pedestrians who suddenly walk or run onto the roadway, which can make them a hazard to vehicles, can be cited per the CVC. Pedestrians are also obligated, when they are not in a marked or unmarked crosswalk, to yield the right-of-way to all vehicles so as to not become an immediate hazard.

Remember: Be Safe, Be Seen, and Be Smart. Pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists all must take steps to ensure safety by following traffic signs, signals and rules.

If you would like more information about traffic safety, contact the Pomona Police Traffic Services Bureau at (909) 620-2081.

 

 

Pomona Unified Launches Dual Language Immersion Program

BY JULLIETTE FUNES

 

Pomona – The Pomona Unified School District (PUSD) has launched a Dual Language Immersion program for the 2014-15 school year at Westmont Elementary, where more than 50 kindergarten students will learn how to read, write and communicate effectively in an English and Spanish language setting while achieving high levels of academic success.

The inaugural program is starting in two full-day kindergarten classes at Westmont, and will continue through the 6th Grade, ensuring students receive an exciting and challenging educational opportunity where they will gain the bilingual skills needed to succeed in a 21st Century world.

“The great thing about Pomona Unified providing this enrichment program is that it gives our kids the opportunity to gain new skills, learn a new language and become prepared for success in a multicultural society,” said Board of Education President Frank Guzman. “Students enrolled in this program also have the chance to earn a State Seal of Biliteracy Award, which will go on their high school diploma and increase their marketability in an advancing global economy.”

The program follows a 50:50 model, where 50 percent of native English speakers and 50 percent of native Spanish speakers are enrolled in each class, enabling both sets of students to interact and learn new vocabulary skills. Teachers work in tandem to design lesson plans that incorporate and provide equal instructional time to both languages. All instructions are written and spoken in Spanish and English, and 30 minutes of daily English Language development is dedicated to English learners.

The program follows PUSD’s core curriculum and uses state-adopted materials. It also supports the Common Core State Standards, which is strengthened by the language-rich environment in which students are constantly communicating, creating, collaborating and using critical thinking skills.

As students advance in the program, they will demonstrate proficiency in both languages, navigating complex material in English and Spanish.

“We have various cultures in the class and they have been thriving and adapting really well since the first day of classes on Aug. 12,” said Westmont Principal Cynthia Badillo. “They will leave sixth-grade being fully biliterate, bilingual and bicultural. We have hard-working, excellent teachers who are going to help us be very successful with this program.”

Registration for the program begins in February for children who will be 5 years old by Sept. 1. Parents must complete an application, which will be assessed to determined students’ language proficiency. Fifty percent of the slots in the kindergarten program are reserved for native Spanish speakers. For those families who are not selected, the child will be placed on a wait list and parents will be notified by the end of June if a placement is available for the fall school year.

“Studies have shown that dual language students experience increased cognitive benefits and improved academic growth compared to their counterparts,” PUSD Superintendent Richard Martinez said. “It’s an excellent program supported by parents and the community for its goals of promoting biliteracy and bilingualism, leading these young learners to a brighter future.”

PUSD is also developing additional Dual Language Immersion programs in other parts of the District for the coming years, including a second English/Spanish program and a new English/Mandarin Chinese program.

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

 

Pomona Gang Member Arrested

STAFF REPORTS
Pomona – On September 10, at approximately 7 p.m., known gang member, Arthur Ramirez, 21, was arrested.

According to the Pomona Police Department, officers from the Gang Violence Suppression Unit contacted Ramirez at his residence on the 700 block of Weber Street.

Ramirez is a known associate of a criminal street gang operating in Pomona. The gang is known to actively participate in shootings, assaults, narcotic sales, and multiple other crimes within the City of Pomona.

Ramirez – who consented to a search of his room – was found to be in possession of a short-barreled 12-gauge shotgun, approximately 200 rounds of live ammunition, and methamphetamine drugs. He was arrested on multiple charges and booked into the Pomona City Jail on $50,000 bail, pending a court date.

Pomona: Diamond Ranch Named Top U.S. School

diamond-ranch-high-school

Photo Courtesy: Diamond Ranch High School

STAFF REPORTS

Pomona – The Daily Beast news organization has ranked Diamond Ranch High School as one of the most successful public high schools for 2014, out of thousands reviewed across the nation.

In its quest to find the top public educational institutions in America, The Daily Beast surveyed approximately 1,200 schools with above-average graduation rates of at least 85 percent. After taking academic rigor into consideration, the list was whittled down to just over 700 finalists.

According to the Pomona Unified School District, Diamond Ranch has a graduation rate of 99.3 percent and has a college-bound rate of 89.3 percent – ranked 308 out of 735.

“There are hundreds of excellent schools on this list, so for one of our schools to be recognized out of thousands across the nation for its academic prowess and rigorous program is a great feat for Pomona Unified,” said Board of Education President Frank Guzman. “I couldn’t be prouder of our teachers and staff for working so hard to make Diamond Ranch stand out as one of the best high schools in the region to best prepare our students for the 21st century.”

The criteria used to compile the list included graduation and college acceptance rates, which were weighed most heavily; academic rigor using Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes and test scores; the number of students qualifying for free or reduced lunches; and student performance on college admission exams – all indicators of how well a school prepares students for college and career.

At Diamond Ranch, nearly 100 percent of students graduate, almost 90 percent are college-bound, and students score highly on the SAT (1453) and ACT (20.7) college admission tests. The number of students enrolled in the school’s AP/IB courses is 31.6 percent and the exam pass rate on those two rigorous academic tests is 43.8 percent.

“As a principal, I am thrilled with the high academic standards our students, staff and parents have,” Diamond Ranch Principal, Suzanne Ripley, said. “We have a strong tradition of excellence at Diamond Ranch High School and it is wonderful to have major news agencies acknowledge the top high schools in the nation, and we are proud to be one of them.”

In addition to The Daily Beast’s ranking, Diamond Ranch was recognized as one of America’s most challenging high schools by the Washington Post and as one of the best high schools by U.S. News and World Report. Diamond Ranch is also a two-time California Distinguished School and successfully earned a six-year WASC accreditation term.

Other key components that make Diamond Ranch a standout school include establishing AP and Honors courses, achieving Digital High School status, having cutting-edge technology, athletic success and powerful co-curricular programs.

“Our vision at Pomona Unified is to prepare students to become first-class citizens with a world-class education, and these rankings only validate the success of that vision,” PUSD Superintendent Richard Martinez said.  “Congratulations to our great teachers, parents and community for supporting our kids in achieving significant academic growth.”

 

Pomona: Gang Convicted of Multiple Crimes

STAFF REPORTS

Robert Louis Caballero (Photo Courtesy: City of Chino)

Robert Louis Caballero (Photo Courtesy: City of Chino)

Pomona – Three members of the 12th Street Gang were found guilty of a series of murders and kidnappings on Thurs., Aug. 14.

According to the Pomona Police Department and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office, Robert Louis Caballero, 37, was convicted of three counts of first-degree murder, two counts of kidnapping, one count of assault with a firearm, one count of possession of a firearm by a felon, evading an officer and willful disregard. The jury deliberated for two days before their findings, along with the special circumstances of lying in wait, murder during the course of a kidnapping, and multiple murders.

Another defendant, Pete Trejo, Jr., 32, was found guilty of first-degree murder, kidnapping, and the special circumstances of lying in wait, and murder during the course of a kidnapping.

A third defendant, Andrew Valenzuela, 23, was also convicted of one count of first-degree murder, kidnapping, and the special circumstances of murder during the course of a kidnapping.

The crimes began on Sept., 29, 2009, when Caballero killed Armando Vidana, a Cherryville gang member. Vidana was shot eight times and his body was left in the street in Pomona.

The Pomona Police Department further states that on Nov. 5, 2009, Caballero was at home with an 18-year old kidnapped victim, along with his cousin David Padilla, and a Lorraine Minjarez. During the visit, Caballero became suspicious of Minjarez and believed she was going to tell police that he killed Vidana. Caballero lured Minjarez to a nearby vehicle driven by his cousin, with the kidnapped victim also seated in the car. From that location they picked up the codefendant, Trejo.

During the ride, Caballero directed the driver to take them to Mt. Baldy. After they arrived, Caballero then directed Trejo to dig a grave while he strangled Minjarez. Once she was killed, Trejo buried her body and Caballero ordered the kidnapped victim to hide the evidence.

The next day, suspicious of Padilla’s loyalty to him, Caballero lured his cousin to a remote freeway overpass. Once there, he directed codefendant Valenzuela to strangle Padilla while forcing the kidnapped victim to watch. Prosecutors stated that Valenzuela strangled and beat Padilla to death with rocks.

                Pomona Police homicide detectives investigated the initial homicide that occurred on Sept., 29, 2009. Caballero was eventually identified as the suspect in this homicide and a manhunt was conducted.  On Nov. 7, 2009, Caballero was located and a pursuit was initiated by Pomona Police Officers.  Caballero fled on foot from the pursuit vehicle in Montclair and after a lengthy search, he was located.

                The investigation was continued by Pomona Police Homicide Detectives and they eventually located two additional homicide victims.  One was located in Mt. Baldy on a hillside (investigated by the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department). The other victim was located in Chino (investigated by the Chino Police Department).

Valenzuela was eventually charged with the indicated crimes as well.  He was also located in Pomona by Pomona Police Officers after being involved in a pursuit.  Trejo was also charged and he was eventually arrested after a murder warrant was issued.

Trejo and Valenzuela are scheduled to be sentenced October 3 at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center. They face a maximum sentence of life in state prison without the possibility of parole. The penalty phase for Caballero began on August 19.

 

San Gabriel Valley: Local Crime Reports

STAFF REPORTS

SGV – On Tues., Aug. 12, LASD Temple Station Deputies advised that a pregnant woman was shot in the 1900 block of Merced Avenue in South El Monte at approximately 10 p.m. The victim, who was seven months pregnant, was in the driveway of the location when an unknown suspect(s) approached and fired several rounds at the victim; she was struck multiple times. The suspect(s) fled the scene in a dark colored sedan. The victim was transported to a local hospital where her baby was safely delivered and is in fair condition. The mother’s condition is unknown at this time.

On Tues., Aug. 12, at approximately 3:30 p.m., Central Sheriff’s Station Deputies responded to Loma Linda University Medical Center (LLUMC) regarding a theft report. Witnesses told Deputies that two Hispanic male adults entered the hospital dressed as maintenance workers. The subjects were confronted by hospital staff and they left the location. Property belonging to LLUMC was found to be missing. The investigation by Deputies revealed that Richard Zavala, 32, of Chino Hills, and Brandon Reyes, 35, of Pomona were the suspects. Both were arrested by the Central Station and Chino Hills Deputies. A total of 21 microscope lenses with an approximate value of more than $31,000 were recovered and returned to the hospital. Zavala and Reyes were booked into the West Valley Detention Center.

On Fri., Aug. 8, a Diamond Bar homeowner received an unwelcome surprise when an intruder crashed in through his front door in the 400 block of N. Del Sol Lane at approximately 1:30 p.m. The homeowner, who authorities say felt that his life was in danger, grabbed his gun and fired a shot at the burglar. L.A. County Sheriff’s deputies stated that the burglar fled the scene in a burgundy Toyota Camry that had tinted windows, with another suspect waiting behind the wheel. It is not known if the intruder was struck by the bullet, and officials are still investigating this incident.

On Wed., Aug. 6, the Pomona Police Department reported that members of the Gang Violence Suppression Unit served a search warrant at 1041 N. Dudley Avenue. Located during the search was a marijuana grow operation, which officers subsequently dismantled.

A total of 66 pounds of marijuana was seized. The primary suspect was not at the location at the time of the warrant service; however, a criminal report is being filed with the L. A. County District Attorney’s Office and a felony filing is anticipated.

On Mon., Aug. 4, at approximately 9:40 p.m., L.A. County Sheriff’s Parks Bureau Deputies responded to Legg Lake at Whittier Narrows Regional Park in South El Monte, regarding a found child.

The deputies contacted a person who found a six-year old boy crying and looking for his father. They attempted to locate the father with the limited information that the young child provided. The child, who was cold and hungry, was placed in the deputy’s patrol car and fed while the Parks Bureau personnel continued to search.

A vehicle believed to be driven by suspect Garcia was located nearby with a flat tire. The suspect was nowhere to be found.             The child was placed into protective custody after all attempts to locate the father had been exhausted. The child’s mother was later located and took custody of her son.

On Thurs., Aug. 7, Deputies arrested Juan Garcia, 31, of Pomona, for Child Endangerment.

Partner to prevent or report crime by contacting your local Sheriff’s station. Or if you wish to remain Anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

Pomona: Newborn Girl Surrendered

BY K.P. SANDER

 

Pomona – Supervisor Don Knabe has long been a proponent of protecting the innocent and vulnerable children in Los Angeles County. In fact, he established the “Safe Surrender” program, which allows a mother to legally surrender an infant that is no more than three days old – as long as the infant shows no signs of abuse – to any L.A. County hospital or fire station, with no questions asked.

Knabe, who represents the Fourth District (stretching from Marina del Rey to Diamond Bar) for the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, reported that another newborn was safely surrendered at a Pomona hospital on Mon., June 16. This is the 119th infant to be surrendered since the inception of his program 13 years ago, and the sixth one this year. Another baby girl was surrendered in Tarzana just this month, on June 2.

“In the last few weeks, two mothers have made the difficult, but brave, choice to safely surrender their babies,” Knabe said. “Now these two baby girls have the chance to grow up and be part of a loving family.”

The newborns are tended to at the hospital, and then placed in protective custody. Families that have been approved for adoption by the Department of Children and Family Services will have a chance to welcome these precious infants into their homes.

One can only speculate about the situations surrounding women faced with this type of choice. But a newborn that is safely surrendered is definitely a cause for celebration in contrast to the horrors of those found in dumpsters or otherwise. The right choice can be made, anonymously, and without shame or blame.

baby-safe-la-logoIf you would like to know more about the Safe Surrender Program, visit BabySafeLA.org.

 

Pomona: Woman Abducts Son From Pomona Foster Care

STAFF REPORTS

Juana-Maria-Corrigan

Suspect Juana Maria Corrigan with abductee Joshua Saul Corrigan in an undated photo. (Photo Courtesy: Pomona Police Dept)

Pomona – The Pomona Police Department has issued a news release searching for a woman who recently abducted the son she abandoned last year.

Suspect Juana Corrigan gave up parental rights to her son, Joshua, when she deserted him and fled to Mexico. Joshua was placed into foster care and has remained there since the incident.

Corrigan, 21, of San Ysidro (and possibly Palm Springs), was reportedly evicted from her home recently. She approached the foster care home in the 700 block of East Third Street at about 5 p.m. on Tues., June 24, and claimed that she received permission from Joshua’s social worker to take possession of the child. The foster mother, who is reportedly related to Corrigan, became suspicious and did not acquiesce to the suspect. At that time Corrigan threatened to harm the child if she did not comply. Believing that the suspect would carry out her threat, the foster mother reluctantly released the boy. Mother and son fled the scene and their whereabouts are unknown as this time.

Juana Maria Corrigan is described as a female Hispanic, 5’8” tall, 140 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes. Joshua Saul Corrigan is described as a male Hispanic, 3’8”, 45 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

The Pomona Police Department is asking anyone who has seen the suspect or victim to call 911. Anyone with additional information regarding this incident is asked to call (909) 622-1241. If you prefer to remain anonymous, contact “Crime Stoppers” at (800) 222-8477, or ” We Tip” at (800) 78-CRIME.

 

 

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

 

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Summer Kids’ Day Camp

When: Monday, June 9 through Wednesday, August 20; 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church & Schools, 23300 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar 91765 Details: A fun, safe, Christian environment for your school age children. Kids’ camp is a summer day camp program based on fun, personal and spiritual growth, and the celebration of God’s Word through various activities, field trips, and daily devotions.  All children ages 5 – 12 are invited to attend.  Check out the Mt. Calvary Lutheran website for more information about daily activities, registration, and fees.

Diamond Bar Concert/Movie Series

When: Wednesday evenings, June 18 – August 13; 6:30 p.m.

Where: Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive

Details: Free admission and free parking

  • Jun 18: Neon Nation (80s Tribute); The Little Mermaid.
  • Jun 25: Doo-Wah Riders (Country): Monsters University.
  • Jul 09: The Skinny Little Twits (Rock); Frozen.
  • Jul 16: Retro Soul (Dance); Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.
  • Jul 23: The Answer (Classic Rock); The Great and Powerful Oz.
  • Jul 30: Box Car 7 (Blues, R&B); Free Birds.
  • Aug 06: Cold Ducks (70s Tribute); The Lego Movie.
  • Aug 13: Little Lies Band (Fleetwood Mac Tribute); Despicable Me 2

Contact: http://www.ci.diamond-bar.ca.us

3rd Annual Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo

When: Sat., June 28; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Fairplex, Expo Hall 6, 1101 W. McKinley Avenue, Pomona 91768 (Enter at Gate 1)

Details: A wonderful FREE event for Baby Boomers, seniors, care-givers, friends and family members, featuring a diverse range of exhibitors, entertainment, health screenings, and informative educational seminars with the goal of helping the 50+ demographic manage and enhance all aspects of their lives.

Contact: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2014-golden-future-50

Pomona Inner City Ministry – Homeless Dinner

When: Saturday, June 28 – and the fourth Saturday of each month; noon to 4:30 p.m.

Where: First Baptist Church of Pomona, 601 N. Garey Avenue, Pomona (volunteers meet in E202, Second Floor at noon for prayer and instructions)

Details: Come serve the homeless and economically disadvantaged in a ministry that can not only transform the lives of others, for those of you that volunteer as well.

Contact:   If you would like to donate goods, the Ministry is in need to hats and men’s clothing of all styles and sizes (they can be brought to the dinner). For financial donations, contact Global Impact Ministries, 586 N. Main Street, Pomona, CA 91768.

Chino Youth Museum Family-Friendly Programs

When: Now through August 2014

Where: 13191 Sixth Street, Downtown Chino; Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Nominal fees.

Details: There are some amazing events taking place this summer, from art projects and entertainment, to edible art creations and Kids Night Out. Enjoy special activities like You & Me Time, Beat the Heat cool activities, and special day Museum Birthday Parties.

Contact: (909) 334-3270 to find out more about the summer-fun schedule.


4th of July Celebration

When: Friday, July 4; beginning at 5 p.m. (fireworks at 9 p.m.)

Where: Lorbeer Middle School, 501 Diamond Bar Blvd.; Diamond Bar.

Details: A patriotic celebration beginning with a musical performance by Bumptown (Top 40s Latin Band), and ending with a 25-minute fireworks spectacular at 9 p.m. Free parking and admission. Blankets or low-height beach chairs are encouraged for lawn seating. Bring a picnic dinner or purchase concessions from local vendors.


WEEKLY EVENTS:

Bookstore Blowout

Where: Twice Sold Tale Bookstore located at the Walnut Library, La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Details: All books and media: Any four items for $1 ($1 minimum purchase).

Contact: (909) 595-0757 or email the.walnut.library@mac.com.


Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second Tuesday of every month.

Where: Basically BOOKS locations: at 23447 Golden Springs Road, Diamond Bar and at the Diamond Bar Library: 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.

Details: Books and education videos will be offered at special discounts for teachers at all levels. Teachers can sign up at either Basically BOOKS locations or email BasicallyBOOKS@aol.com to join these special teacher appreciation afternoons.


Free Acupuncture for Veterans, Active Military, First Responders

When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Where: 12598 Central Avenue, Unit 113, Chino, CA 91710.

Cost: Free

Contact: (909) 590-4183 or http://www.healingcirclecommunityacupuncture.com

Jack Newe’s Farmers Market sponsored by SGV Regional Chamber of Commerce

When: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Mt. San Antonio College Campus, Parking Lot B, 1100 N. Grand Avenue, Walnut CA 91789

Cost: Free Admission/Parking

Features: Seasonal organic produce, breads and cakes, olive oils, cheese and spreads, a variety of nursery plants, hand-crafted items and jewelry, fresh-popped Kettle Corn and grilled food plates.

Contact: (909) 869-0701

 

 

 

 

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Summer Kids’ Day Camp

When: Monday, June 9 through Wednesday, August 20; 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church & Schools, 23300 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar 91765 Details: A fun, safe, Christian environment for your school age children. Kids’ camp is a summer day camp program based on fun, personal and spiritual growth, and the celebration of God’s Word through various activities, field trips, and daily devotions.  All children ages 5 – 12 are invited to attend.  Check out the Mt. Calvary Lutheran website for more information about daily activities, registration, and fees.

 

SGV Annual Installation and Awards Gala

When: Thursday, June 19, 5:30 p.m.

Where: STC Center

Details: One of the Chamber’s premier events featuring award presentation of businesses and individuals who have impacted the San Gabriel Valley throughout the year. The event will also feature the installation of the new board members.

Contact: RSSVP to Melanie Coward at (909) 869-0701, or melaniec@regionalchambersgv.com.

 

3rd Annual Golden Future 50+ Senior Expo

When: Sat., June 28; 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Fairplex, Expo Hall 6, 1101 W. McKinley Avenue, Pomona 91768 (Enter at Gate 1)

Details: A wonderful FREE event for Baby Boomers, seniors, care-givers, friends and family members, featuring a diverse range of exhibitors, entertainment, health screenings, and informative educational seminars with the goal of helping the 50+ demographic manage and enhance all aspects of their lives.

Contact: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2014-golden-future-50

 

Pomona Inner City Ministry – Homeless Dinner

When: Saturday, June 28 – and the fourth Saturday of each month; noon to 4:30 p.m.

Where: First Baptist Church of Pomona, 601 N. Garey Avenue, Pomona (volunteers meet in E202, Second Floor at noon for prayer and instructions)

Details: Come serve the homeless and economically disadvantaged in a ministry that can not only transform the lives of others, for those of you that volunteer as well.

Contact:   If you would like to donate goods, the Ministry is in need to hats and men’s clothing of all styles and sizes (they can be brought to the dinner). For financial donations, contact Global Impact Ministries, 586 N. Main Street, Pomona, CA 91768.

 

Chino Youth Museum Family-Friendly Programs

When: Now through August 2014

Where: 13191 Sixth Street, Downtown Chino; Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Nominal fees.

Details: There are some amazing events taking place this summer, from art projects and entertainment, to edible art creations and Kids Night Out. Enjoy special activities like You & Me Time, Beat the Heat cool activities, and special day Museum Birthday Parties.

Contact: (909) 334-3270 to find out more about the summer-fun schedule.

 

WEEKLY EVENTS:

 

Bookstore Blowout

Where: Twice Sold Tale Bookstore located at the Walnut Library, La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Details: All books and media: Any four items for $1 ($1 minimum purchase).

Contact: (909) 595-0757 or email the.walnut.library@mac.com.

 

Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second Tuesday of every month.

Where: Basically BOOKS locations: at 23447 Golden Springs Road, Diamond Bar and at the Diamond Bar Library: 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.

Details: Books and education videos will be offered at special discounts for teachers at all levels. Teachers can sign up at either Basically BOOKS locations or email BasicallyBOOKS@aol.com to join these special teacher appreciation afternoons.

Free Acupuncture for Veterans, Active Military, First Responders

When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Where: 12598 Central Avenue, Unit 113, Chino, CA 91710.

Cost: Free

Contact: (909) 590-4183 or http://www.healingcirclecommunityacupuncture.com

 

Jack Newe’s Farmers Market sponsored by SGV Regional Chamber of Commerce

When: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Mt. San Antonio College Campus, Parking Lot B, 1100 N. Grand Avenue, Walnut CA 91789

Cost: Free Admission/Parking

Features: Seasonal organic produce, breads and cakes, olive oils, cheese and spreads, a variety of nursery plants, hand-crafted items and jewelry, fresh-popped Kettle Corn and grilled food plates.

Contact: (909) 869-0701

 

 

 

 

The Weekly News 06.14.14

The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link June14WeeklyAll to access the complete June 14-20, 2014 issue in pdf format.

Pomona: Car Wash Benefitting LA County Fire Department Post 15 Explorers

The Los Angeles County Fire Department Post 15 Explorers will be hosting a car wash on Saturday, June 21, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Fire Station 181 located at 590 S. Park Avenue in Pomona. Proceeds from the car wash will benefit the local Explorer program and assist with training opportunities, and the purchase of uniforms and equipment.

Post 15 is a non-profit organization sponsored by the Los Angeles County Fire Department and is open to young men and women ages 15 to 21 that live in Pomona and surrounding communities. The Explorer Program offers insight into a career in the fire service and provides community service opportunities within the City of Pomona.
There is a $5.00 donation for a car wash and hotdogs and sodas will be sold for $2.00.

For more information, or information on the Explorer Program please contact Explorer Advisor, Firefighter Steven Chavez at (951) 880—6842.

Pomona: Convicted Pomona Man Keeps Driving

STAFF REPORTS

 

Pomona – In what Pomona Police Department sources describe as a “habitual traffic offender,” Darryl Ursery has continued to drive on a suspended license despite being convicted of exactly that eight times since 2008. His arrest on Thurs., May 22, will hopefully end his reign of endangering others on our roadways.

 

Ursery, 46, despite his previous convictions, has continued to drive with a suspended license, and has been involved in two injury crashes within the last year, which led to the District Attorney filling criminal charges.

 

A Pomona Police Department report states the Ursery was involved in a traffic collision on April 16 that resulted in serious injuries to a 4-year old boy and his mother. Ursery lost control of his vehicle and collided with two other vehicles, and mother and child had to be airlifted to a hospital. His license was suspended at the time.

 

In August 2013, Ursery was also involved in a collision in Pomona where he lost control of his vehicle and injured four people. His license was suspended at the time.

 

According to the Pomona Police Department’s Traffic Services Unit, Ursery, 46, faces criminal charges of driving on a suspended license and being a habitual traffic offender, and is being held on $200,000 bail.

 

Chino: Budget Rooter Plumbing

STAFF REPORTS

 

daves-budget-rooter

You can reach Dave Holt at Budget Rooter Plumbing at (909) 592-5855 or (626) 334-3533, or visit http://www.abudgetrooter.com for more information.

Chino – It’s hard to find a plumber who does good work, but Dave Holt has been in the business for 35 years and promises to fix it right the first time.

 

“We treat every customer with respect and honesty,” Holt said. “I do the best job I can for a fair price. It costs a lot to have a plumber come out, and you should at least get what you pay for.”

 

Budget Rooter Plumbing can complete a list of repairs such as work on faucets, water heaters, broken pipes, leak location, sewer replacement, and more.

 

“I personally come out and care about your problems,” Holt said. “I will give you an honest opinion and a fair price.”

 

Holt says he enjoys his job because of the gratification he gets out of helping people that appreciate him. He returns the favor by offering a personal warranty on his work.

 

“My personal warranty is if it ever needs repair, just give me a call,” he said.

 

You can reach Dave Holt at Budget Rooter Plumbing at (909) 592-5855 or (626) 334-3533, or visit www.abudgetrooter.com for more information. Budget Rooter serves the San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys.