Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News

Mt. SAC Honors Student Awarded $40,000 Scholarship

By Mike Taylor

Photo courtesy: Mike Taylor Mt. San Antonio College student Kristin Ho was selected to receive the 2016 Jack Kent Cooke Transfer Scholarship

Photo courtesy: Mike Taylor
Mt. San Antonio College student Kristin Ho was selected to receive the 2016 Jack Kent Cooke Transfer Scholarship

Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College honors student Kristin Ho is one of only 75 community college students selected from a pool of over 2,000 applicants across the nation to receive the 2016 Jack Kent Cooke Transfer Scholarship. Ho’s selection marks the fourth time in the last 10 years that Mt. SAC students have been named for this prestigious scholarship.

A Pomona resident, Ho, 24, was awarded a scholarship valued at up to $40,000 annually, which she will use to continue her education next fall. She will transfer to Mount Holyoke College majoring in art history and philosophy. Ho will graduate from Mt. SAC this June with a degree in art history and a 3.64 GPA.

“Kristin has worked hard both academically and as a student leader on campus,” said Mt. SAC Student Services Vice President Audrey Yamagata-Noji. “It’s a very prestigious honor to be selected for this scholarship. Kristin is very deserving and represents the best that community colleges have to offer.”

Ho was instrumental in founding the Roosevelt Institute at Mt. SAC, which promotes progressive policy ideas and leadership. At the college, she has been fundamental in inspiring her fellow student to become engaged in policy research and analysis at local, national, and international levels.

The Jack Kent Cooke Undergraduate Transfer Scholarship Program was designed to help community college students with exceptional promise and demonstrated financial need make the transition to four-year colleges and universities. It is the largest private scholarship in the nation for community college transfer students. Recipients are eligible for graduate school scholarships as well.

Every year, the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation selects high-achieving, low-income students from community colleges for scholarships that provide funding for tuition, room and board, fees and books. Since 2000, it has awarded about $147 million in scholarships to more than 2,000 students and $90 million in grants to organizations that serve outstanding low-income students.

Straight Talk With Danice

I’m not my best friend’s maid of honor

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi ND

 

Dear Danice Akiyoshi ND,

I am terribly upset.  My best friend and I have had a fight and I don’t know what to do.    Her boyfriend proposed to her a few months ago and they have started to plan their wedding.  We met at a boutique last weekend to start shopping for her wedding dress. There, she told me that she hoped I would understand, but she wouldn’t be able to have me as her maid of honor because her fiancé doesn’t feel I’m deserving of that position. He told her that he would like to see her choose his cousin that he’s close to and she agreed.  I was speechless.  I admit that I am not close to this man, but my friend and I have been best friends for three years.  I was hurt and upset and I told her that her fiancé is an idiot and so is she for allowing him to control her that way.  I left the store and we haven’t spoken to each other since that day.  I’m very upset.  Should I call her?  Should I call him?  My mom says that I should send her an apology card and accept that I will be just a regular bridesmaid.  Just the thought of that upsets me because we are best friends and she hardly even knows his cousin.  What’s your opinion?

Thank You,

Desi

Dearest Desi,

I’m so sorry to inform you of this, but it looks to me like you’ve already lost your best friend.  If your friend’s fiancé feels like he can insert his opinions about who she chooses as a maid of honor and she allows this, then she has already lost her personal identity and given away her personal power to the degree that your friendship is bound to fade away no matter what you do.  Work hard to accept the reality of that now and save yourself the expense of a bridesmaid dress and all of the painful additional drama that goes along with being involved in this wedding.  My guess is that your friend has probably reported your behavior to her fiancé and he has already been pointing out that this just proves that his cousin is the better choice.  Manipulation will probably continue to be a big part of your friend’s life until she resumes thinking for herself.   Look at it this way; she is no longer a good match for you in the best friend department.  I hope you will find some delightful new friends soon.

Danice Akiyoshi ND

Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

DUI Suspect Arrested For Domestic Violence And Possession

Staff Reports

Chino Hills- On Friday, May 20, Deputies responded to a domestic violence call in the 4000 block of Willowbend Court in Chino Hills, where the suspect allegedly assaulted a victim.

A description of the suspect’s vehicle was aired and the deputies quickly located the vehicle. The suspect, Zachary Stephens, 25, led deputies on a short pursuit where he failed to stop at a signal light on Soquel Canyon at Slate Drive. Stephens, of Chino Hills, was driving speeds of up to 50 miles per hour in residential streets, according to the Chino Hills Police Department.

Stephens was arrested on Slate Drive at Copper Road and then was booked at West Valley Detention Center for felony evading, domestic violence, possession of illegal narcotics, and driving under the influence of drugs.

ACI Institute: Unique Lesson Plans And Test Prep

By Racine Guajardo

Caption: ACI Institute is located at 660 N. Diamond Bar Blvd. Suite 168. You can visit their website at www.studyforcollege.com or call them at (909) 860-9345. Also, see their ad in the Weekly News.

Caption: ACI Institute is located at 660 N. Diamond Bar Blvd. Suite 168. You can visit their website at http://www.studyforcollege.com or call them at (909) 860-9345. Also, see their ad in the Weekly News.

Diamond Bar– ACI Institute is a learning center that provides after-school enrichment in English and Math for students in grade levels 2nd– 12th. They offer weekend classes for SAT, PSAT, ACT, and Writing.

The in-house team of ACI has created challenging, original materials to ensure that each child is learning what he/she needs to succeed on their road to higher education. Each classroom is equipped with smart board technology to bring lessons to life and increase interactivity within the class.

Teachers on staff are college educated, experienced professionals with a passion for teaching. Director of ACI, Diane Sartor, has served as director and curriculum coordinator since 1993. She has been teaching since 1989, majored in English and French, fluent in mandarin Chinese and, also involved in Motivational speaking for Educational Seminars. Sartor has stated, “my personal goal is to inspire students to embrace challenge and find joy and self-worth through achievement.”

“An education should foster students’ intellectual growth along with their social and emotional development. Our classroom environment is educational, yet fun and motivates student to excel in school.” Discounts are available for school-year programs and for returning students. All students in grades 2-12 are encouraged to walk-in for a free test evaluation and consultation. Currently, a full 10-week summer school program that begins June 6th is available.

ACI is serving the communities of Diamond, Bar, Walnut, Pomona, and surrounding communities with their Weekend Programs at 660 N. Diamond Bar Blvd. Suite 168. This new location is equipped with a rest area for student snack time and security cameras throughout the facility to ensure that your children are learning in a safe and comfortable environment. Major cross streets are Diamond Bar Blvd., just north of Sunset Crossing; entrance is at the back of the building on the first floor.

You can visit their website at www.studyforcollege.com or email office@aciprep.org . You may also call them at (909) 860-9345.

Let’s Talk STEM!

Maple Hill PLTW classes enjoy engineering day with Cal Poly students

By Kelli Gile

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Maple Hill PLTW students use engineering skills to build spaghetti and marshmallow towers.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Maple Hill PLTW students use engineering skills to build spaghetti and marshmallow towers.

Diamond Bar – Cal Poly Pomona Project Lead the Way (PLTW) and Women in Engineering (WE) students recently spent a day with 200 Maple Hill Elementary students to talk about STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and how it relates to everyday life.

The college students visited 4th and 5th grade classes for 10-minute presentations about engineering and a spaghetti tower challenge.

The youngsters raced to build the “strong and tall” structures using dried pasta, with tiny white marshmallows as the “glue.” They quickly demonstrated teamwork, leadership, and creativity skills to successfully work with the fragile materials.

“We worked together to find lots of ways to solve the problem,” said 4th grader Joshua Chan.

“Engineering is hard, but fun too!” added classmate Leah Owens.

The Cal Poly visitors worked alongside the elementary students during the activity.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Cal Poly Pomona Women in Engineering and Project Lead the Way visit Maple Hill Elementary for a day of STEM education.


Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Cal Poly Pomona Women in Engineering and Project Lead the Way visit Maple Hill Elementary for a day of STEM education.

“It was very inspiring to see the frustration during the building turn into excitement when a free-standing structure was achieved,” Cal Poly student, Teresa Rodriquez, commented.

“We went to the school to help the students understand how engineers play a role in society, and to help them experience the process through a hands-on learning experience,” added another visitor, Jonathon Roberts.

Maple Hill launched the innovative PLTW program at the beginning of the school year, with kindergarten through fifth grade students immersed in robotics and engineering projects.

“It was a great day and our students enjoyed it a lot,” said kindergarten teacher Lisa Esse.
“We are hoping to continue and build our partnership with Cal Poly so that next year the engineering students will be coming on a regular basis.”

“I am glad to see both girls and boys so interested in STEM, and can’t wait to see the big creations their little minds develop in the future,” said Rodrigue

My Favorite Mother-in-Law

mark-hopper-color-2x2By Pastor Mark Hopper

Recently, my wife’s mother died in Arizona.  She was born in Bethlehem, Pennsylvania on August 20, 1924.  She was 91-years-old.

I always called her my favorite mother-in-law.   Actually, she was my only mother-in-law.  My wife and I have been married for 45 years, so she has been my mother-in-law for all that time!

She was a remarkable woman.  She was born during the “Roaring 20’s” and lived through the Great Depression in the 1930’s.  After earning her nursing degree, she worked at a hospital in Washington, DC during World War II.

After the end of the war, she married my father-in-law and they settled down on Long Island, New York in the first modern subdivision called Levitown.  It was a futuristic master planned community filled with returning veterans and their brides.

This young couple was also part of the post-war “Baby Boom”, having four kids in New York and a fifth child after they migrated to Scottsdale, Arizona.

My favorite mother-in-law was a stay-at-home mom who was actively involved in the lives of her five children.   When the kids got into high school and college, she became a school nurse and enjoyed helping young students at the local elementary school.

My in laws enjoyed their retirement years and traveled to Europe and the British Isles several times.  One of their favorite trips was to Ireland because she had Irish roots.  Her maiden name was Gallagher!

My wife and I enjoyed some memorable times with her parents.  We traveled with them to San Diego on several occasions.  And, we will always remember a special trip with them to Hawaii.

I was surprised at how many people attended her memorial service.  There were many former neighbors and friends in attendance, plus many family members.  Almost all of her grandchildren came, too.  She had five children, 13 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren with two more on the way.

There were also a number of our high school friends and former classmates at the service.  They considered her to be their adopted mom, too.

Let me encourage you to take time this week to express your love and appreciation to an older adult in your life.  Why not put a note in the mail or pick up the phone and make a call?

Tell them how much they have meant in your life.  You will be glad you did and they will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.  Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.  For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit Efreedb.org.

Andrew Jackson Kills Charles Dickinson In Duel

History.com

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

On May 30, 1806, future President Andrew Jackson kills a man who accused him of cheating on a horse race bet and then insulted his wife, Rachel.

Contemporaries described Jackson, who had already served in Tennessee’s Senate and was practicing law at the time of the duel, as argumentative, physically violent and fond of dueling to solve conflicts. Estimates of the number of duels in which Jackson participated ranged from five to 100.

Jackson and Dickinson were rival horse breeders and southern plantation owners with a long-standing hatred of each other. Dickinson accused Jackson of reneging on a horse bet, calling Jackson a coward and an equivocator. Dickinson also called Rachel Jackson a bigamist (Rachel had married Jackson not knowing her first husband had failed to finalize their divorce). After the insult to Rachel and a statement published in the National Review in which Dickinson called Jackson a worthless scoundrel and, again, a coward, Jackson challenged Dickinson to a duel.

On May 30, 1806, Jackson and Dickinson met at Harrison’s Mills on the Red River in Logan, Kentucky. At the first signal from their seconds, Dickinson fired. Jackson received Dickinson’s first bullet in the chest next to his heart. Jackson put his hand over the wound to staunch the flow of blood and stayed standing long enough to fire his gun. Dickinson’s seconds claimed Jackson’s first shot misfired, which would have meant the duel was over, but, in a breach of etiquette, Jackson re-cocked the gun and shot again, this time killing his opponent. Although Jackson recovered, he suffered chronic pain from the wound for the remainder of his life.

Jackson was not prosecuted for murder, and the duel had very little effect on his successful campaign for the presidency in 1829. Many American men in the early 1800s, particularly in the South, viewed dueling as a time-honored tradition. In 1804, Thomas Jefferson’s vice president Aaron Burr had also avoided murder charges after killing former Treasury secretary and founding father Alexander Hamilton in a duel. In fact, Rachel’s divorce raised more of a scandal in the press and in parlors than the killing of Dickinson.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 5.28.16

2016-May28-Weekly-COVERThe Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format:2016-May28-Weekly-WEB

DB City Council Recap

City Council Approves Large Lists of Items

By Natalie Kim

Diamond Bar – The May 3 Diamond Bar Council meeting began with a special presentation to Team Evergreen for winning the Odyssey of the Mind at the state level. During the public comments, a representative from the Diamond Bar public library announced several upcoming events that will be hosted by the library and are free to attend.

The schedule of future events was read, including the traffic and transportation commission meeting on May 12 at 7 p.m. and the next City Council meeting on May 12. The Planning Commission meeting on May 10 was cancelled.

The Council then approved the following items: City Council minutes of April 19; ratification of check register amounting to $944,587.43; the Treasurer’s statement for the month of March 2016; awarding a contract to Architerra Design Group, Inc. for the design of construction documents for Peterson Park Tot Lot for $21,020, appropriation of $21,020 of a Park Development fund for this work, plus the design of fourteen information panels for the City’s trails for $8,000; award of contract to Western Audio Visual, Inc. for a new projector and screen at the Diamond Bar Center; a resolution declaring the City’s intention to levy and collect assessments for landscape district no. 38 and direct the City Clerk to advertise the public hearing to be set for the regular meeting on June 21; approval of a contract amendment with Hardy & Harper Inc. for three fiscal years for on call public works maintenance services specific to asphalt pavement, sidewalk, curb & gutter and striping maintenance; and a resolution accepting a quitclaim deed and irrevocable offer of dedication from the Walnut Valley United School District for Public Uses Specific to Larkstone Park and Larkstone Drive.

Many residents protested the final item on the consent calendar, approval of the final tract map for the subdivision of an 80 acre site into 48 residential lots, located directly south of Rocky Trail road and Alamo Heights Drive, and West of Horizon Lane within the gated community of the Country Estates in the City of Diamond Bar. However, the Council also approved this item, to follow accordance of state law.

Following individual Council member reports and comments, the Council adjourned with plans to meet again on May 12, at 6:30 p.m., at 21865 Copley Dr.

Proud of Myself

By Michael Armijo

I remember closing my eyes, trying my hardest to embrace the way I felt. I wanted to burn into my memory the feeling of enchantment that overwhelmed me. I wanted the way I felt that evening to last a lifetime.

It wasn’t just dinner and cocktails with some co-workers. It wasn’t just a significant evening for someone special, a celebration of achievement. The evening meant more to me than it did to the person being honored. It was an evening in which I was proud to be included.

With my wife in my arms, I memorized the melody of the song as we slowly moved over the shiny, wooden dance floor.  A glance out of the window provided a beautiful view of the city.  A look around the room at people I respected and admired filled me with tremendous pride.  I will never forget how it felt to be present and included that night.

When I tried to recall the last time I felt this way, it took me back to the 7th Grade. I remember failing all my classes and my teacher, Miss Contreras, helped to change my perspective.  She told me that I deserved to be number one; that I deserved to be the best and to feel proud of myself.  What she said worked because I found the path that led me to becoming Student of the Year, along with top grades and a place on the honor roll.

Unfortunately, that feeling was taken from me. Abuse and neglect took those happy moments from my life and traded them for sadness and pain.

Over the years, I’ve worked hard to overcome those hard times and make a positive difference in the lives around me. Just as Miss Contreras did for me, I’ve tried to help people find their own path to personal worth, encouraging people to live the life of an achiever; showing people that it can be done.

Because of who I was and where I’ve been, helping others and making a positive contribution has always meant so much to me.  I’ve always dreamed of feeling the satisfaction of making a difference – without conditions or ulterior motives.  I’ve waited for the day that I knew my accomplishments were worthy of my intentions.

And that evening – an evening I will forever hold dear in my heart – I stood there with peers of mine whom I respected, with the woman I’ve loved for nearly 30 years, and I felt proud of my life.  With a tear in my eye, I realized I have made a difference in the lives around me.

And just as I felt when I won that 7th Grade Student of the Year award, I had earned a feeling that no one could ever take from me. I found the path to fulfillment for what I’ve done with my life, and realized it was okay to feel proud of myself.

Cover Picture: CH Softball Seniors Caption Caption: The Chino High School softball team now shares the Hacienda League Championship title and will be playing CIF this week. The team also celebrated their seniors on Senior Day, along with the colleges they will be attending in the fall. Congratulations to the following seniors (shown L-R): Corina Gamboa (Colorado State), Amanda Brashear (Maryland), Courtney Springman (West Point), Alyssa Gonzalez (Ole Miss), Emily Ballesteros (West Point) and Hayley Wishner (Whittier College).

Cover Picture: CH Softball Seniors Caption
Caption:
The Chino High School softball team now shares the Hacienda League Championship title and will be playing CIF this week. The team also celebrated their seniors on Senior Day, along with the colleges they will be attending in the fall. Congratulations to the following seniors (shown L-R): Corina Gamboa (Colorado State), Amanda Brashear (Maryland), Courtney Springman (West Point), Alyssa Gonzalez (Ole Miss), Emily Ballesteros (West Point) and Hayley Wishner (Whittier College).

The 10-Step Sugar Detox Plan For You And Your Children

By Brittany ThomasSugar-spelled-out

For adults who crave candy and ice cream almost as much as their children, the bad news on sugar continues to pour in.

Earlier this year, research into sugar’s deleterious effects showed a connection to cancer, heart disease and diabetes. More recently, the American Dental Association reminded parents just how bad sugar is for their children’s teeth.

“We think we’re so advanced in 2016, yet when it comes to health and a nutritious diet, many of us have a long way to go,” says nutritionist and juicing pioneer Cherie Calbom, who is known as “The Juice Lady.”

The good news for parents is that they can ferret out the sugar-laden products that may be hidden in their and their children’s diets. They can dedicate themselves to a healthy, sugar-free lifestyle, says Calbom, author of “The Juice Lady’s Sugar Knockout.” She offers her Sugar Addiction Quiz at www.juiceladycherie.com/Juice/the-sugar-knockout.

Below is Calbom’s solution: a 10-step detox plan that parents can work on with their children to eliminate sugar in both their diets.

  1. Avoid all sugar. If you can do it for 30 days, you can change your lifestyle. During this time, avoid even healthy sweeteners like honey, and substitutes, which overwhelm the taste buds.
    2. Cut caffeine intake. There are multiple benefits to cutting back on your caffeine, including the temptation to use sugary creamers and accompanying sweets along with actually causing sugar cravings.
    3. Skip foods that turn to sugar easily. This includes wheat and other grains, alcohol and starchy foods like white potatoes.
    4. Enjoy healthy smoothies. Healthy smoothies that include dark leafy greens like kale or chard make you feel good in the long term and can help eliminate the urge for sugary snacks and excessive caffeine.
    5. Power up with protein. Eggs, nuts, fish and other meats balance blood sugar and insulin.
    6. Eat your veggies. Non-starchy vegetables provide your body with much-needed vitamins that also will cut your urge for unhealthy, sugary snacks.
    7. Drink eight glasses of water a day. Sufficient pure water keeps you hydrated, reduces headaches and constipation, and flushes out toxins.
    8. Supplement your diet. GTF chromium, L-Glutamine, B vitamins, Zinc, Magnesium and Vitamin C assist your body in various ways to overcome sugar cravings.
    9. Sleep well; sleep enough. Lack of sleep messes with your hormonal balance and contribute to feelings of hunger.
    10. Fight sugar cravings with fat. Healthy fats like avocados and fish make you feel full and satisfied.

“Beware of sugar in places you might not have expected, like tomato sauces, salad dressing and marinades,” Calbom says. “Make a habit of studying labels.”

 

Did You Know?

Things That Are Often Missed In Financial Planning

By Brittany ThomasFinancial_Planning_Small

Our relationship with money can be complicated, and it’s for this reason many people seek professional help.

But even when we get help, there are still important aspects that can be overlooked, says Brett King, the managing/founding partner and Senior Vice President Investments for Elite Financial Associates (www.elitefinancialassociates.com). “The wrong way to look at service from a financial advisor is the ‘handing it off’ mentality – that you can put your financial destiny in their hands and not have to think about it anymore,” he says.

“A better attitude is similar to what you might have between your health and your doctor, where your participation is required. Part of that means better understanding your personal wealth by furthering your financial literacy.”

King says some of the important aspects to financial planning that might be missing from your financial wellbeing include:

  • A reliable relationship with your money manager. While you have a duty to yourself to understand your own wealth and subsequent goals, so do your money managers. Only recently has the Labor Department issued regulations requiring financial advisers and brokers handling individual retirement and 401(k) accounts to act in the best interests of their clients. You’ll want someone you feel comfortable communicating with, and who makes themselves available.
    • Accounting for inflation. Inflation erodes the purchasing power of your income and wealth. But you can fight it. Stocks, stock mutual funds, variable annuities and variable universal life insurance may be options to consider. These alternatives provide the potential for returns that exceed inflation over the long term. Growth-oriented alternatives carry more risk than other types of investments. Over the long term, however, they may help you stave off the effects of inflation and realize your financial goals. Remember to diversify investments.
    • Utilization of the right annuity. Annuities enable you to accumulate payments, tax-deferred, in exchange for a future income stream in retirement. The different types include fixed, immediate fixed, deferred fixed, variable and the hybrid fixed index annuity – the fastest-growing type of annuity providing principal guarantees and market index upside return. How you use them can make a big difference in reaching your financial goals. If you’re working with a sizeable retirement plan, you probably have some form of annuity, but you want to make sure it’s the right fit.

“Between estates and trusts, tax planning, cash management, risk management, investing and retirement, there could literally be dozens of important factors you’re missing,” King says. “That’s why it all starts with the money managers – you and your advisor.”

Design-A-Sign Contest Winners Honored

City of Chino Hills

Photo courtesy: City of Chino Hills Top row (L-R): Myra Zhan, 12th Grade, Ayala High School; Sophia Yujin Yang, 11th Grade, Diamond Bar High School; Ashley Robles, 8th Grade, Canyon Hills Junior High; Joshua Chou, 7th Grade, Chaparral Middle School; Jason Goo, 6th Grade, Hidden Trails Elementary; Audrey Han, 5th Grade, Wickman Elementary; Priyasha Panigrahi, 6th Grade, Country Springs Elementary; Bottom row (L-R): Derek Yang, 4th Grade, Wickman Elementary; Zoe Villegas-Kellerman, 3rd Grade, Litel Elementary; Jay Bhullar, 2nd Grade, Rolling Ridge Elementary; Annie Kung, 1st Grade, Eagle Canyon Elementary; Emma Shiozaki, Kindergarten, Wickman Elementary School; Ethan Hsiao, 3rd Grade, Rolling Ridge Elementary

Photo courtesy: City of Chino Hills
Top row (L-R): Myra Zhan, 12th Grade, Ayala High School; Sophia Yujin Yang, 11th Grade, Diamond Bar High School; Ashley Robles, 8th Grade, Canyon Hills Junior High; Joshua Chou, 7th Grade, Chaparral Middle School; Jason Goo, 6th Grade, Hidden Trails Elementary; Audrey Han, 5th Grade, Wickman Elementary; Priyasha Panigrahi, 6th Grade, Country Springs Elementary;
Bottom row (L-R): Derek Yang, 4th Grade, Wickman Elementary; Zoe Villegas-Kellerman, 3rd Grade, Litel Elementary; Jay Bhullar, 2nd Grade, Rolling Ridge Elementary; Annie Kung, 1st Grade, Eagle Canyon Elementary; Emma Shiozaki, Kindergarten, Wickman Elementary School; Ethan Hsiao, 3rd Grade, Rolling Ridge Elementary

Chino Hills – The City of Chino Hills 16th Annual Water Conservation Design-a-Sign Contest had a total of 606 entries. Local kids designed water conservation signs to promote water awareness and to help them learn about the importance of water, the Earth’s most precious natural resource. This year’s theme was “Catch Those Drops, Don’t Let Them Get Away.”

Three grand prizes were awarded. Ethan Hsiao, a 3rd grader from Rolling Ridge Elementary won a Kindle Fire HD with 8” display; Priyasha Panigrahi, a 6th grader from Country Springs Elementary won a Lexibook 7 inch Laptab Android computer; and Myra Zhan, a 12th grader from Ayala High School won an Acer Aspire 15.6 inch laptop. All winners received a water conservation backpack filled with little gifts. Mrs. Stuchura, a 5th grade teacher at Butterfield Ranch Elementary School, had 100% classroom participation and won a $100 gift card to Staples.

Winning posters have been made into permanent water conservation street signs and are on display on streetlight poles along City Center Drive at the Chino Hills Government Center. The signs will also be moved to the winning students’ schools before they are permanently installed at various locations throughout the City.

Volunteer judges included Robert Gannon, Parks and Recreation Commissioner; Gary G. Larson, Planning Commissioner; Bill McDonnell, Public Works Commissioner; Cheryl Yeamans, Public Works Department; and Kelly Bracamontes, a volunteer with the chARTS committee; Katie Plank and Andrea Carruthers, Inland Empire Utilities Agency; and Ric Welch, Jurupa Community Services District.

 

Chino Hills Student Finalist In Music Center’s Scholarship

CVUSDCiRJItBUoAALwL8

Chino Hills– Chino Hills High freshman Ria Aldachi, who is enrolled in Chino Valley Unified School District’s virtual high school online program, has been named a Grand Prize Finalist in the Los Angeles Music Center’s 28th annual Spotlight awards program.

Ria is one of 14 student artists from Southern California to receive the honor and a $5,000 scholarship. She was one of two students named a finalist in the ballet division. Other categories in the contest included acting, non-classical dance, classical voice, non-classical voice, classical instrumental, and jazz instrumental.

The finalists, who were selected by a panel of judges, will perform June 11 at the Spotlight Grand Finale Performance at Walt Disney Concert Hall in Los Angeles.

Approximately, 1,100 participants auditioned for Spotlight this year. In February, Ria was selected as one of the 111 semi-finalists from Southern California. Semi-finalists attended master classes with highly regarded artists, and were offered feedback on their performances. Each semi-finalist also received $300.

Numerous Spotlight participants have gone on to successful professional careers, according to the Los Angeles Music Center. Among those artists are pop recording singers Josh Groban and Adam Lambert; and Misty Copeland, who made history as the first African American principal dancer for the American Ballet Theatre.

Women Arrested For Possession

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Last Thursday, two women were arrested for possession of burglary tools and drug paraphernalia in the City of Chino Hills.

According to Deputy Brian Arias, at approximately 7:49 p.m. on May 12, the Chino Hills Police Department conducted a traffic stop at Slate Dr. / Cooper Rd. A Black Dodge Durango was stopped for committing several California Vehicle Code violations.

The occupants of the black Dodge Durango were identified as Lara Adams, 28, and Debra Jauregui, 39. Inside the vehicle, deputies found several pieces of stolen mail, credit cards, and personal information not belonging to either of the women. Burglary tools and drug paraphernalia were also in their possession. In addition, Adams had an active warrant for her arrest.

Authorities suspect that Adams, of West Covina, and Jauregui, of Ontario, were in Chino Hills to commit thefts. Both Adams and Jauregui were arrested.

The Chino Hills Police Department asks that anyone with information regarding this case contact the Chino Hills Multiple Enforcement Team: Maria Colombi or Brian Arias at (909) 364-2000. If you would like to remain anonymous, you may contact WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME.

Walnut City Council Recap

Many Thanks Given At Council Meeting

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – The May 11 Walnut Council meeting began with several presentations. The first of which was presented to the 2nd grade Rookie All-Star team for placing first in the NJB Championships, followed by the 5th & 6th grade boys team, who were undefeated for ten games. Next, Claudine Stines was recognized as the Older American of the Year for 2016. The Council thanked her for her many years and constant efforts to better the City, volunteering her services and being an active resident of the City. The Council then thanked West Coast Arborists for their work on maintaining the City’s greenery. West Coast Arborists gave their own presentation on drought resistant trees and other landscaping tips. Finally, Carol Anne Hagele presented information from the San Gabriel Valley Mosquito & Vector Control, urging residents to remove still pools of water, as they provide mosquito breeding places.

During oral communications, residents of the Three Oaks neighborhood complained of burglaries in the neighborhood. Residents called for more security from police, and a gate to keep suspicious persons out.

Following a public hearing, the Council approved a resolution regarding lighting and open space maintenance district assessments. The Council also approved all items on the consent calendar, including: a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $490,018.61; a resolution acknowledging and confirming a court order in the matter of Los Angeles SMS, a limited partnership DBA Verizon Wireless vs. the City of Walnut; adopting a measure limiting the number of terms a member of the City Council may serve; a professional services agreement with Rincon Consultants, Inc. to prepare an environment and technical studies for the proposed 49 acre site specific plan; final acceptance of tract no. 73294; a revision of the fixed capitalization policy; a new website policy for the City of Walnut website; a request from Walnut Youth Softball for two additional tournaments; and the Mayor’s Agency Representatives appointments to fill vacancies.

Finally, after individual reports and comments, the Council adjourned with plans to meet again on May 25 at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Rd.

IE News: Litigation Threat Changes EV Elections

By Raymond Mendoza

Eastvale– Changes are in store for Eastvale for the upcoming November elections, as the Eastvale City Council recently voted to change its “at-large” system of city council elections to “by district” – meaning that council members must be elected from certain geographic areas within the city.

While the vote was 3-0 in favor of the change during a council meeting on April 27 (Councilmember Adam Rush was absent) the council members noted their decision was only made to appease litigation threats made by the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund.

According to Attorney Betsy Martin, the City of Eastvale received a letter from the group in April stating that they would sue the city if Eastvale did not switch to “by district” elections in time for the November 2016 election. The group claimed that the City of Eastvale’s current election system is violating the California Voting Rights Act of 2002.

According to a statement issued by the city, Eastvale is not the only city being threatened with litigation. Inland Empire cities such as Rancho Cucamonga, Wildomar, Hesperia, Chino and Upland all received the same demands regarding by-district elections.

“We recommend that you do (change to “by district” elections),” said Martin. “No city has ever successful defended a voting rights challenge.”

Martin went on to discuss how the California Voting Rights Act of 2002 is intended to ensure that “protected groups” – such as minority races – have their voting rights protected. Martin mentioned that the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund was alerted due to the efforts of an unknown Eastvale community member.

“Rather than spend a lot of money on fighting something that will certainly be a losing proposition, we suggest you go forward and draw your own districts as rapidly as possible,” said Martin.

During the June 2010 Eastvale incorporation election, 54 percent of the voters were in favor of “at-large” elections – which allowed anyone who lives within the city to run for city council. “By district” only received 27 percent of the votes.

Council Member Clint Lorimore voiced his distaste for the election changes, stating that breaking the city into districts would accomplish very little since there is no major racial divide from one area of Eastvale to the next.

“I want to express my frustration with this process,” Lorimore said. “I believe that we in Eastvale are a homogenous community. We’re not broken into specific areas where one ethnicity lives. It is not going to be helpful, in my opinion, for our city to do this.”

To push these changes ahead at an accelerated rate, city officials hired the National Demographics Corporation to study the city’s population and prepare draft plans for the proposed districts that also meet legal requirements. The draft of proposed districts will be available to the public this month on the city’s website and residents are also encouraged to voice their opinions concerning the new districts during its upcoming public hearings on May 11, May 25, and June 8.

Politics Over Dinner In Diamond Bar

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar Republican Women Federated (DBRWF) is hosting a dinner and social gathering on Thursday, May 26. The event will take place at the Diamond Bar Golf Course/Country Club, located at 22751 E. Golden Springs Drive in Diamond Bar.

The cost to attend is $25 and it includes dinner. The social gathering will take place at 6:30 p.m. and the dinner will begin at 7 p.m.

The dinner will be combined with the Puente Hills Republican Women, Federated. The guest speaker will be the Chairman of the California Republican Party, Jim Brulte.

“Jim will no doubt have some great insights for us, having just held the California Republican Party convention in Burlingame last weekend,” said a DBRWF newsletter.

This event is open to the public and open to any political party. “Come join us and get up to date on California politics!” said the newsletter.

If you would like to attend, please RSVP to Trisha at BrahmaMama1@aol.com.  If you make a reservation and find that you won’t be able to attend, you may also email Trisha to let her know.

May 2016 SGV News

2016-05-SGVNews-COVERSGV News covers Diamond Bar, Walnut, La Puente, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of the San Gabriel Valley; portions of the western Inland Empire; and northern Orange County. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: 2016-05-SGVNews-WEB