Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News

DUI Checkpoint Nets Four Arrests

Photo courtesy of Google

Photo courtesy of Google

Courtesy of Chino Police Department

CHINO – The Chino Police Department conducted a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint Friday, February 12, 2016 at the 8400 block of Pine Avenue, near the Chino Preserve.  The checkpoint was held between 8 p.m. and 3 a.m.

Checkpoints are placed in locations that have the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driving deterrence and provide the greatest safety for officers and the public.  In addition to the deterrent effect of DUI/Driver’s License checkpoints, the purpose of this type of checkpoint is to educate the public, arrest impaired drivers who are operating vehicles while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, cite unlicensed drivers and to reduce the number of victims killed or injured in alcohol-related collisions.
1754 vehicles traveled through the checkpoint.  Four arrests were made, three were DUI and one was drug-related.  Twelve drivers were cited for driving while unlicensed or with suspended licenses.  Twelve other citations were given for various transgressions.  Nine vehicles were towed.

The Chino Police Department encourages people to call 9-1-1 to report suspected drunk drivers.  For additional information regarding traffic enforcement and education programs contact the Traffic Services Unit at 909.334.3073. 

Quail Summit Loves on Local Seniors

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR-Quail Summit Elementary students delivered hundreds of handmade valentines to Diamond Bar senior citizens on February 9.
About 25 students, representing every class on campus, traveled by bus to the meeting at the Diamond Bar Center. The children carried a total of 649 simple messages of kindness, one from every student on campus.
“I think it will make them feel really happy and valued,” shared 4th grader Violet Kieta before the children began mingling from table to table while passing out the Valentine’s Day gifts.
Many of the pink and red heart-shaped cards included read “Be Mine,” “You are Very Special,” and “Have a Great Valentine’s Day” and included sweet personal notes and artwork from the children. The seniors were thrilled to receive the love messages.
“I’ve been looking forward to this,” exclaimed Marjorie Fair. “I’ll put the valentines on my refrigerator!”
“They’ve been so good to us again this year!” said another senior admiring his new cards.
The young visitors are members of the Character Crew leadership group. Elementary learning specialist Leann Legind and teachers Kathy McLean and Pam Leslie work with students during school and community service activities that promote good character. This year, Leslie’s fifth grade class volunteered to make a batch of cookies, including chocolate chip, oatmeal raisin, Snickerdoodles, and s’mores, as a gift for the seniors.
“The kids brought in recipes and got a chance to practice math skills while calculating measurements during the baking session,” Leslie explained.
The Diamond Bar Senior Citizen’s Club provides generous support to the school each year, funding recent activities including an author visit, tree dedication, mix-it-up day, and blanket donations for foster children. The Valentine’s Day cards were the perfect way for students to show their appreciation.
“Thank you for being so kind and generous to us and being amazing role models,” Legind said. “You have impacted us in so many ways, and because of you we were able to impact others.”
“It was special seeing all the senior citizens smile!” said 5thgrader Janiyah Hunsaker.
Quail Summit continued spreading a message of kindness and love during an 11 a.m. assembly marking the beginning of a new event. Mr. John’s Day of Kindness will now be held each year in honor of the school’s beloved custodian John Bisaha, who passed away last fall. Bisaha worked at Quail Summit for 25 years and made lasting connections with students, staff, and parents.
“He left ripples of kindness on our campus and we want to remember him,” Principal Jeanette Koh said. “To honor Mr. John, we’ll always have a day in February, near his birthday, as a day of kindness.”
Several family members were on hand for the unveiling of a portrait created by gifted artist and former parent, Margot Bloom. The school will display acts of kindness along with the painting inscribed “The Heart of Quail Summit.”
“Mr. John exemplified that every day,” Koh added.
The student body demonstrated compassion on its first official day of kindness by collecting five boxes of donations for furry friends at the Inland Valley Humane Society. Character Crew members also created cat toys from socks, batting, and cat nip, and painted “You are Paw-Some” and “Adopt Me!” messages on dog bandanas to help touch the heart of someone wanting to adopt a new pet.
“We encourage our students to spread kindness every single day,” Koh said.

Straight Talk with Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

“I betrayed my friend”

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

I recently betrayed my dear friend.  I spoke ill of her to some of our other mutual friends and I am mad at myself.  I was frustrated and suffering a weak moment when we were all out having drinks at Happy Hour.  I believe one of the women who heard me is bound to tell my friend about my remarks.  I am a terrible liar, and I feel so guilty.  I don’t think I can deny it if she finds out.  What should I do?  I am losing sleep.

-Avis P.

 

Dear Avis:

The fact that you feel so badly about making a disparaging remark about your friend tells me a lot about your character.  If I’m right about that, I think your dear friend is pretty familiar with your decent character, too. Please meet with her right away, hopefully before she hears it from one of the others.  Explain that you were frustrated and having that weak moment and that you just feel horrible about the unbecoming comments you made.  Ask her to forgive your poor judgment.  Look her right in the eye and promise that it will never happen again as you apologize.  Make sure you keep that agreement.  Good Luck.

-Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Jogger Hit by Car and Killed

Photo By NBC Los Angeles

Photo By NBC Los Angeles

Staff Reports

WALNUT -Just before 6 a.m. on Monday, February 15, Walnut Sheriff’s deputies got a 911 call informing them of a car that had hit a brick wall outside of a home in the 20200 block of Barnard Avenue.

The vehicle, a 1989 Toyota Camry, was being driven by Haissam Massalkhy, 36, a resident of West Covina.  Mr. Massalkhy was driving eastbound on La Puente Road when he struck a male jogger, identified as 59-year-old Chi Shao, of Walnut.  Mr. Shao was jogging eastbound in the bike lane when the vehicle hit him from behind and carried him several yards on the hood of the car before colliding with the brick wall of the Barnard Avenue residence.

Homeowner Jim Li said he and his family were asleep when he heard the crash.  “It was shock. The driver was standing there. I asked him: ‘Are you okay?’ And he said: ‘Someone dead. Call 911.’”

Mr. Shao was pronounced dead at the scene.  Mr. Massalkhy, who did not appear to be injured, has been booked at the Walnut Sheriff’s Station on murder charges.  Sheriff Lieutenant David Buckner said the incident appeared to have been intentional.  Massalkhy is being held in lieu of $1,000,000 bail.

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.

Quality Comes First At Peterson Auto Repair

peterson-auto-repair-center-walnut

Peterson Auto Repair Center is located at 3900-B Valley Boulevard, in the Big Valley Industrial Park. They can be reached at (909) 598-3881.

By K.P. Sander

Walnut – If you are looking for a local automotive repair center that performs quality work at reasonable prices – and delivers it all with excellent service – look no further than Peterson Auto Repair Center.

Peterson now houses a full mechanic shop to serve all your automotive needs.  They not only specialize in lube and oil changes, but also repair and maintain radiators, alternators, starters, brakes, clutches, shocks and struts, axles,  air conditioning, belts and hoses, and much, much more.

In business for over 15 years, owner Eric Peterson says, “For me, it’s all about providing quality automotive repair for the neighborhood.  I grew up in La Puente and Walnut, and we have so many good customers in this area.  We really appreciate the business and word of mouth referrals.”

Carhelp.com customers agree constantly giving Peterson high marks for quality workmanship and fair pricing.

Look for Peterson to add quality auto-body services to the business in the future.

Peterson Auto Repair is located in the Big Valley Industrial Park, at 3980-A Valley Boulevard in Walnut.  They are open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., and can be reached at (909) 598-3881.  See their ad in the Weekly News for a great coupon.

Woman Arrested for Abandoning Baby in WC Sandwich Shop

Photo Courtesy of the West Covina Police Department. Mary Grace Trinidad’s mug shot from a drug arrest in January 2016

Photo Courtesy of the West Covina Police Department. Mary Grace Trinidad’s mug shot from a drug arrest in January 2016

Staff Reports

West Covina – On Feb. 16 at 8:34 a.m., a woman was arrested for abandoning her baby in a West Covina Subway sandwich shop’s bathroom after giving birth.

The West Covina Police Department stated that a 9-1-1 call was received on Feb. 16 regarding a baby who was found in the restroom of the Subway Restaurant located at 2540 S. Azusa Avenue. “The caller also stated that a woman who had just exited that restroom was seen bleeding as she headed toward the front doors,” according West Covina Police Department Public Information Officer Rudy Lopez.

“Employees from the restaurant heard a baby crying as they entered the restroom. An umbilical cord was seen hanging out from the toilet and the newborn baby boy was found partially submerged in the toilet water,” said Lopez.

The baby was treated and transported to the Neonatal Unit of Queen of the Valley Hospital in West Covina and is currently in stable condition.

West Covina Police Officers said they were able to find a blood trail that led them to the suspect in an alleyway behind the Pep Boys Auto located at 1540 E. Amar Road. Mary Grace Trinidad, 38, of West Covina was arrested immediately.

“Due to the suspect’s medical state, she was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Following her release, she will be booked for Attempted Murder and Child Abandonment. Bail will be set at $2 million dollars. The suspect also had a $30,000.00 narcotics related warrant outstanding for her arrest,” said Lopez.

The recording of the 9-1-1 call and a Subway security surveillance video has also been released.

After this incident, Supervisor Don Knabe issued a release reminding the community that the Safe Surrender program gives the opportunity for mothers to legally leave their baby with an employee at any hospital or fire station at any time, no questions asked. This provides a “safe, secure and anonymous way to get her child into safe hands–at any fire station or hospital, any time, in any county in California–and to protect a baby from abandonment: No shame, No blame, and No names,” said Knabe.

“Though 142 lives have been saved by the Safe Surrender program, this near-tragedy shows we still have a lot more work to do to spread the word,” said Knabe.

 

Anxiety and Our Youth

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

By Nancy Stoops, M.A.M.F.T.

I have been a psychotherapist for fifteen years, and I have worked with people of all ages and with various issues.  I’m constantly amazed when I have a child or teen brought to me for anxiety issues. We seem to have created a generation that feels very inadequate and struggles with growing up and being successful.  The issues this generation worries about are things my generation didn’t have to deal with.

Our colleges are impacted and hard to get into.  Now kindergarteners have homework and are expected to read and know many more things than we needed to.  Video games and television are replacing playing outdoors in the fresh air and getting much needed exercise.  Outdoor playing is such a great way to reduce or eliminate stress.  Social media unfortunately has made this generation very lazy and childhood obesity and diabetes are on the rise.

As parents and community leaders, we have a social responsibility to help this generation find a healthy balance in their lives in every area.  We need to support and encourage our youth.  We need to provide the necessary tools to help them strive to become their best.  We need to have faith in our youth, as many of them are diamonds in the rough.  We need to give them guidance and the tools to help them shine and reach their full potential.

We need to teach teenagers that problems can be worked through and that drinking and drugs are not a solution.  We need to teach them how to meditate, not medicate, to quiet their busy minds.  We need to teach them how to relax by finding balance, getting organized, prioritizing activities, utilizing time management, and how to communicate what’s working and not working in their lives.  Please don’t assume they are all pot smoking, video game playing, lazy worthless human beings.  They are just scared and need some help finding their way!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. 

Teacher Arrested for Sexual Misconduct

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Courtesy of the City of Chino

Chino – An investigation of alleged sexual misconduct between a Don Lugo High School teacher and student resulted in an arrest, Friday, February 12, 2016.

At approximately 9:19 p.m. on the evening of Thursday, February 11, 2016, Chino Police Officers took a report of sexual misconduct that had occurred at the high school campus. The reported incidents involved the victim, a minor female student, and the suspect, a Don Lugo teacher, identified as Mike Gutierrez, age 37 of Corona.

As a result of the investigation Chino Detectives arrested Gutierrez and he was booked at the West Valley Detention Center for lewd acts with a minor.  The Chino Valley Unified School District is handling a separate personnel investigation.

Please contact the Criminal Investigations Bureau at 909-334-3093 if you have any information related to this incident.

$50K in Scholarships Available for Class of 2016

Courtesy of CVUSD

CHINO– Tim Adams, of School Portraits by Adams Photography, provided the Board of Education with the largest check to date of proceeds from the “Hit the Greens for Scholarships” Golf Tournament held every November. Adams has been hosting the tournament for the district for six years. This year’s check in the amount of $31,329.29, added to funds available from previous years, enables the district to distribute $50,000 to students, the largest amount since the tournament began. To date, more than $145,000 has been given to 116 seniors.

“The opportunity to assist students as they choose to continue their education is something that we consider a privilege,” said Tim Adams of School Portraits.

The scholarships will be awarded to high school seniors at each of the following schools: Ayala, Buena Vista, Chino, Chino Hills, and Don Lugo. The application period has begun and will continue through Feb. 29.
Seniors at each of those schools may apply for one of the following:
• Spirit of Chino Valley Unified
Awarded to a student who has volunteered at school or in the community, has embodied school spirit by serving in a student leadership role, has participated in school activities that promote good citizenship, and has an outstanding attendance record.

• President’s Award
Awarded to a student in need of financial assistance to continue their education.

• Superintendent’s Award
Awarded to a student who has embraced academic rigor and excelled by earning an overall grade point average of 3.8 or higher.
The application is available on the District website (www.chino.k12.ca.us) with a cover letter and checklist for submission.

New Teen Volunteer Program

Courtesy of the City of Chino

CHINO– The City of Chino is seeking teens interested in volunteer service.  The Teen Opportunity Program (TOP) is a new volunteer program geared toward teens in the 7th-12th grades.

The TOP program requires teens to attend monthly meetings where they are trained in customer service, problem solving, decision making, conflict resolution, teamwork and leadership.  Through the training, the youth are equipped with life skills that help them succeed with volunteer assignments in city programs or special events.

“The Teen Opportunity Program is a great way for teens to earn volunteer hours required for graduation,” says Noemi Luna, Community Services Coordinator in charge of the program.  “They also gain valuable leadership skills and experience for future employment opportunities,” she added.

The first two meetings were well attended.  Youth learned about the enrollment process and the requirements of volunteering through TOP.  They were also introduced to the types of assignments available and upcoming events.

To get more information or to enroll in the program, youth can call the Neighborhood Activity Center at 909-334-3260.  The upcoming meeting dates are March 17, April 14, May 12 and June 9, 2016.

A Box of Cookies

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper
We are always thankful when new people visit our church.  We usually have a variety of guests and visitors of all ages.
Many have come because they have driven by our church on Diamond Bar Blvd. on their way to work or school.  Many other new visitors come because a friend or family member has invited them.  We make a special effort to meet these new guests when they come.  We try to introduce them to other people at our church, especially people who are around the same age or at the same life stage.
Twice a month, we go out into the community and visit the people who have visited us.  We call this program “Home Visits.”  We typically go out two evenings a month.  We bring information with us about our church.  And we always bring a box of cookies.
Some people might think this is old-fashioned, but we have found it to be an effective way to get to know new guests and thank them for coming to our church.  There are some occasions when people are reluctant to open their door when we knock, but most of the time, people seem very appreciative that we would take the time to come to their home.
I think the main reason they are willing to welcome us into their home is because we bring cookies!  Sometimes we bring Snickerdoodles, and sometimes we bring cookies with sprinkles, but I think everyone’s favorite cookies are chocolate chip- at least they are my favorite!
This simple effort has helped us to get to know many people in our community.  We enjoy telling these guests about our church and we enjoy getting to know them.  I wonder how well you know your neighbors?  Do you know their names?  Do you know their children by name?
Many people in our community do not know who their neighbors are.  We have become isolated and indifferent.  We have lost the art of being a good neighbor.
Maybe it is time for you to buy some cookies or bake some cookies and go knock on your neighbor’s door.  Maybe it is time for you to take the initiative and get out and get to know the people who live on your street or in the condo next door.  Get up and get out and get to know some of your neighbors.  You will be glad you did and they will too.  And don’t forget the cookies!
PS:  Let us know if you would like us to bring you a box of cookies.
We would be glad to!
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 http://www.efreedb.org

 

February 2016 SGV News

2016-02-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: February 2016 SGV Newspaper

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 2.20.16

2016-Feb20-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-Feb20-Weekly-WEB

Diamond Bar City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

The February 2 Diamond Bar City Council meeting began with a crime report from Sheriff’s Captain Jeff Scroggin. According to Scroggin, the vast majority of Diamond Bar crimes are theft and burglary, which can be prevented through simple acts such as locking doors on cars and homes and investing in home security systems.

During the public comments, a representative from the Diamond Bar Public Library announced several events coming up, including a Chinese New Year celebration, an etiquette workshop for teens on February 6 from 2-3 p.m., and a Landlord/Tenant informational workshop on February 18 from 6-7 p.m. Another resident announced an Evening of Colors on March 18 at 7 p.m. at the Diamond Palace.

The schedule of future events was read, which includes the Planning Commission meeting on February 9 at 7 p.m.; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on February 11 at 7 p.m.; and the next City Council meeting on February 16 at 6:30 p.m. City offices will be closed on February 15 in observance of Presidents Day.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including minutes from the City Council meeting of Jan 19; the Traffic and Transportation Commission minutes from the meetings of September 10, October 8, and November 12; Planning Commission minutes from the meeting of January 12; ratification of a check register totaling $1,452,378.07; the Treasurer’s Statement for the month of December 2015; an ordinance amending penalties and civil remedies for offenses pertaining to animal regulations; notice of completion for the Ronald Reagan and Peterson Park parking lot rehabilitation projects; a resolution approving CalRecycle grants to the Department of Resources Recycling and Recovery; and a contract amendment with Tait Group for professional consulting/advocacy services.

Following Council reports and comments, the Council adjourned until February 16 at 6:30 p.m. at 21865 Copley Dr in Diamond Bar.

February is National Heart Month

Photo courtesy of Google Images

Photo courtesy of Google Images

Staff Reports

Every 43 seconds, someone in the United States has a heart attack.  According to the American Heart Association, heart disease is the leading cause of death for men and women in the United States. Every year, 1 in 4 deaths are caused by heart disease.

The CDC says that Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common type of heart disease in the United States. For some people, the first sign of CAD is a heart attack. You and your health care team may be able to help you reduce your risk for CAD.

CAD is caused by plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart (called coronary arteries) and other parts of the body. Plaque is made up of deposits of cholesterol and other substances in the artery. Plaque buildup causes the inside of the arteries to narrow over time, which could partially or totally block the blood flow. This process is called atherosclerosis.

Too much plaque buildup and narrowed artery walls can make it harder for blood to flow through your body. When your heart muscle doesn’t get enough blood, you may have chest pain or discomfort, called angina. Angina is the most common symptom of CAD.

Over time, CAD can weaken the heart muscle. This may lead to heart failure, a serious condition where the heart can’t pump blood the way that it should. An irregular heartbeat, or arrhythmia, also can develop

A heart attack, also called a myocardial infarction, occurs when a part of the heart muscle doesn’t receive enough blood flow. The more time that passes without treatment to restore blood flow, the greater the damage to the heart muscle.

Every year, about 735,000 Americans have a heart attack. Of these cases:

  • 525,000 are a first heart attack.
  • 210,000 happen to people who have already had a first heart attack.

The five major symptoms of a heart attack are:

  • Pain or discomfort in the jaw, neck, or back.
  • Feeling weak, light-headed, or faint.
  • Chest pain or discomfort.
  • Pain or discomfort in arms or shoulder.
  • Shortness of breath.

Other symptoms of a heart attack could include unusual or unexplained tiredness and nausea or vomiting. Women are more likely to have these other symptoms.

One of 5 heart attacks is silent—the damage is done, but the person is not aware of it.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the main cause of heart attacks. A less common cause is a severe spasm, or sudden contraction, of a coronary artery that can stop blood flow to the heart muscle. If you know the signs and symptoms of a heart attack and recognize that you or someone near you is having a heart attack, seek immediate treatment by calling 9-1-1. The longer you wait, the more damage to the heart muscle can occur.

In spite of all of this, the American Heart Association says there is good news.  Heart disease can often be prevented when people make healthy choices and manage their health conditions.

You can make healthy changes to lower your risk of developing heart disease. Controlling and preventing risk factors is also important for people who already have heart disease. To lower your risk:

  • Watch your weight. Make your calories count by eating a heart-healthy diet high in fresh fruits and vegetables and low in sodium and trans fat.
  • Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke.
  • Control your cholesterol and blood pressure.
  • If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation.
  • Get active and eat healthy
  • Know your ABCS:
  • Ask your doctor if you should take an Aspirin every day.
  • Find out if you have high Blood pressure or Cholesterol, and if you do, get effective treatment.
  • If you Smoke, get help to quit.

Take control of your heart health by following your doctor’s prescription instructions.

Seven Things They Don’t Tell You About Marriage

By Sarah Sanchez

I married my best friend almost two years ago, and I believe I’ve settled into the routine of my new married life.  I can look back over the last few years and honestly say that no one prepared my husband and I for marriage. Even though we took a pre-marital course and were given advice from family and friends, there are still things that no one told us about.

Now don’t get me wrong, I love my husband and I love our marriage. This is not a complaining session, but an informative piece. If I had been given this list before the wedding, I don’t think I would have been so shocked with the changes. So pass this along to any engaged or newly married couples you may know, and you’ll save them a few surprises.

#7 – Communication And Compromise Are Key:  Marriage is about becoming one unit, and this “all for one, one for all” mentality can be a little tough to get used to. You will be making sacrifices throughout your marriage, mainly because it’s not just about you anymore; it’s all about the “we”. You are a team now and you need to constantly be on the same page. But if you communicate and compromise with one another, then both of you can be happy with the decisions that are made.

#6 – You Will Become One; But So Does Your Bank Account:  If you and your spouse put all your money into a joint bank account, all of it now belongs to both of you and you have to learn to budget EVERYTHING. This can be tough because budgeting your money makes you realize how much you need to cut down on going out to eat, and how much groceries really cost.  My suggestion is to download a budget sheet online, fill it out every month, and – oddly enough – actually follow it by writing down every expense you make every day. Dave Ramsey has an awesome book and class you can take that will benefit you as well.               

#5 – Men And Women Are Wired Differently:  This particular point actually became quite clear to us after reading a daily devotional called, “The Love and Respect Experience,” by Dr. Emerson Eggerichs. We learned that men and women are very different in almost every aspect: emotionally, physically, sexually, etc. As expressed in the book, a way to look at it is that women wear pink glasses and hearing aids, and men wear blue glasses and hearing aids. In order to understand how the other is feeling while you are in a disagreement, men occasionally need to put on the woman’s pink glasses and hearing aids, and women occasionally have to put on the men’s blue glasses and hearing aids.  Sometimes it’s just about perspective.

#4 — When You Say ‘I Do’, You Marry The Family Too: When you get married, it’s a package deal, meaning the in-laws come along with the spouse. Therefore, it’s better to put your differences aside and try to be civil with one another.  A trick my husband and I use is that we confront our own families, and not our in-laws. For example, if there is a problem with a member on my side of the family, then I will be the one to confront the family member. But if the problem is on my husband’s side of the family, then he will be the one to confront the family member. That way, the relationships with our in-laws aren’t jeopardized with the confrontation. The bottom line is to try to find a way to keep the peace and don’t let the little things bother you. Also, remember that every family is different, so the way your in-laws act may be very different than the way you grew up. It’s not wrong, just different; keep that in mind.

#3 – Pick Your Battles:  There is a difference between a disagreement and a fight. From my experience, disagreements are more about bickering, while fights are the escalated form of a disagreement that usually includes some form of yelling at each other; perhaps a slammed door or two. My advice is to pick your battles, otherwise you’ll fight about the most ridiculous things. Our first fight as a married couple was about boxes.  No underlying issues.  Just boxes.  Everybody is entitled to their opinion, and there will be conflicts in your marriage; so aim for disagreements, not fights.

#2 – Learn to Embrace Your Spouse’s Differences:  You have to remember that you are two very different people who grew up in very different homes. There are certain habits, flaws, and pet peeves your spouse will have that may be very different from what you are used to.  As long as their habits aren’t hurting anyone, life will be much easier for you if you learn to accept your spouse’s differences instead of trying to change them.  You know how hard it is to change your own behavior, even when you want to.  So the pressure increases significantly when someone else wants you to change a behavior that you’d rather not.  Refer to #3.

#1 – Your Spouse Is Not – And Will Never Be – The Same Person You Married:  This is the number one thing that they don’t tell you about marriage. It sounds bad, but it doesn’t have to be.  One of the most common reasons people get divorced is because their spouse is “not the same person they married”. But every relationship has phases.  For example, you start with the person you date (on best behavior); then comes the person you’re engaged to (you still know the person, but the façade starts to crack a bit); and finally, you end up with the person you marry (where, oh where, is my fiancé?).  So if you go into the marriage knowing there will be changes, your expectations will be better balanced.   I’ve only been married to my husband for a few years, and I can honestly say we both have already changed since the day we got married. I learn new things about him every day, even with dating him for four years prior. He has new dreams, new goals, and new personality traits I’ve never seen before. He’s noticed the same in me, too, and that’s okay, because we married each other for who we were to become, not the people we were at that moment.  You can be very different, and still grow together, which is the goal anyway.

Marriage is an amazing experience and I wouldn’t trade it for anything. Yes, by the list above, it is tough and there is a lot of learning you have to do. But once you get it down, it’s so wonderful to have someone who cares for you, who loves you, who supports you, and is there by your side through all of life’s adventures.  For better or worse…”The best is yet to be, come marry me.”

Reminder! Steer Clear of the 91!

Staff Reports

 

A reminder to all motorists; a full closure of eastbound and westbound 91 between the 71 and I-15 will occur from Friday, February 19, 2016 at 9 pm to Monday, February 22, 2016 at 4 am.

The full weekend closure of the 91 will allow crews to perform three major construction activities: 1) Demolish the west side of the Maple Street Bridge over the 91; 2) Install support beams for the new westbound Maple Street flyover ramp bridge; and 3) Pave the new eastbound 91 alignment near I-15.

“By fully closing the roadway, we will be able to consolidate these significant construction efforts into one weekend, rather than multiple weekends or extending this over a month of weeknights,” said RCTC Executive Director Anne Mayer. “Consolidating the work activities within one weekend will reduce the number of closure hours by more than 50 percent. The project’s design-build method allows for flexibility in planning work, such as this weekend closure,” she said. Another benefit, Mayer noted, is that the full closure will help ensure the safety of the 91 Project crews and the traveling public by eliminating cars and construction equipment on the road at the same time.

Because of the impact that a full closure will have on this heavily traveled roadway, motorists are urged to “steer clear” of the area during this closure. To minimize major travel delays and impacts during the closure, RCTC strongly recommends that motorists plan ahead, avoid travel in the area or stay home. Motorists traveling on the 91, the 71 or I-15 near the project area during the closure period can expect travel delays of three to four hours. If travel cannot be avoided, motorists can use the 57, 60 and I-10 as alternate routes.

The Green River Road interchange will remain open to motorists, and during the weekend closure, emergency vehicles will be able to travel on the 91, as needed, to respond to police, fire and medical situations.  “Corona residents can rest assured that police, fire, CHP and ambulance personnel will be fully briefed about the weekend closure and are ready to respond,” Mayer said.

In case of rainstorms or inclement weather, the closure will be postponed to the next weekend, weather permitting.  For more information, please call the helpline at 877-770-9191, or visit http://www.sr91project.info.

 

Walnut: 10-Day Water Shutdown Means Major Conservation

Staff Reports                                  

WALNUT – Walnut Valley Water District customers are being asked to voluntarily reduce their water use while a major source of supply is taken out of service for 10 days, beginning at midnight Monday, Feb. 29 through Wednesday, March 9.

The Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) will upgrade its F.E. Weymouth Water Treatment Plant in La Verne. This shutdown will reduce the city’s available supplies by more than 50 percent, according to water officials.

As structures at Weymouth continue to age, regular maintenance is required to maintain supply reliability. The Weymouth plant was last fully shut down in March 2013.

While some local water agencies have access to groundwater, stored reservoir supplies and other sources to meet retail demands during the shutdown, the Walnut Valley Water District is nearly 100 percent dependent on imported water supplies.

To insure there is adequate water, reservoirs will be full prior to the shutdown, and another local water treatment plant will provide additional supplies. However, officials encourage customers to conserve water whenever possible.

To help conserve water, here are some steps to take:

  • No outdoor watering – turn your sprinklers “OFF,”
  • No hand-washing vehicles
  • No filling swimming pools or spas
  • No hosing down driveways and sidewalks.

Other water-saving measures include:

  • Running only full loads in washing machines and dishwashers,
  • Not leaving the tap running when washing dishes,
  • Not leaving the water running while brushing your teeth or shaving. Our customers should be aware that some local parks and landscape areas that are irrigated with recycled water will not be impacted by the shutdown.

 

South Pointe Named California 2016 ‘School to Watch’

By Kelli Gile

Photo Courtesy of WVUSD South Pointe 8th Graders Enjoy STEM activities

Photo Courtesy of WVUSD
South Pointe 8th Graders Enjoy STEM activities

DIAMOND BAR—South Pointe Middle School has been designated as a model middle school in the 2015-16 Schools to Watch–Taking Center Stage program.

A total of 11 high-performing middle schools in California will receive this year’s award for academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, and social equity.

South Pointe is now among a select cadre of 78 schools in the state and more than 450 around the nation that are Schools to Watch.

“We are thrilled to have received this recognition,” said Principal Susan Arzola. “Our school community has worked very hard to create an exciting and challenging middle school program that inspires students to achieve their potential and look to their future!”

Schools to Watch, which are recognized at both the state and national level, become examples for middle schools across the country.  South Pointe becomes the first school in Walnut Valley USD to receive the prestigious award.

“South Pointe is committed to providing students with a strong academic foundation to foster success as they move toward high school, college, and careers,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

On Thursday, February 18 at 8:00 a.m., students, staff, administrators, board members, and community members will celebrate the selection as one of California’s newest Schools to Watch in the school’s multipurpose room.

South Pointe prepares students to be globally competitive through the integration of science, technology, engineering, the arts and math (STEAM).  “We are proudly preparing the next generation of leaders,” added Arzola.

All of California’s Model Schools will also be formally recognized in Sacramento and Washington D.C.  The schools will have an opportunity to showcase their accomplishments and network with other middle grades educators from around the state.

South Pointe applied for the designation and was chosen among schools from across the nation.  In order to become a School to Watch, applicants must have met or exceeded the Academic Performance Index (API) school-wide growth target for three of the previous five years.  School administrators must conduct a self-study evaluation and complete an extensive narrative application.  Each site is then reviewed by a team of middle grades experts. In order to retain the designation, each school is re-evaluated every three years.

The California Department of Education and the California League of Middle Schools are the lead agencies in the program, with the support of the California Middle Grades Alliance, a collaborative dedicated to providing policy assistance and encouragement for California’s 1.5 million middle grades students.

California’s Schools to Watch-Taking Center Stage program uses a competitive, rigorous review process to identify high performing, high impact middle schools so that all middle schools may have models of real-world success

 

History 101

Photo courtesy of NPR

Photo courtesy of NPR

Archaeologist opens tomb of King Tut

Courtesy of History.com

On February 16, 1923, in Thebes, Egypt, English archaeologist Howard Carter entered the sealed burial chamber of the ancient Egyptian ruler King Tutankhamen.

Because the ancient Egyptians saw their pharaohs as gods, they carefully preserved their bodies after death, burying them in elaborate tombs containing rich treasures to accompany the rulers into the afterlife. In the 19th century, archeologists from all over the world flocked to Egypt, where they uncovered a number of these tombs. Many had long ago been broken into by robbers and stripped of their riches.

When Carter arrived in Egypt in 1891, he became convinced there was at least one undiscovered tomb–that of the little known Tutankhamen, or King Tut, who lived around 1400 B.C. and died when he was still a teenager. Backed by a rich Brit, Lord Carnarvon, Carter searched for five years without success. In early 1922, Lord Carnarvon wanted to call off the search, but Carter convinced him to hold on one more year.

In November 1922, the wait paid off, when Carter’s team found steps hidden in the debris near the entrance of another tomb. The steps led to an ancient sealed doorway bearing the name Tutankhamen. When Carter and Lord Carnarvon entered the tomb’s interior chambers on November 26, they were thrilled to find it virtually intact, with its treasures untouched after more than 3,000 years. The men began exploring the four rooms of the tomb, and on February 16, 1923, under the watchful eyes of a number of important officials, Carter opened the door to the last chamber.

Inside lay a sarcophagus with three coffins nested inside one another. The last coffin, made of solid gold, contained the mummified body of King Tut. Among the riches found in the tomb–golden shrines, jewelry, statues, a chariot, weapons, clothing–the perfectly preserved mummy was the most valuable, as it was the first one ever to be discovered. Despite rumors that a curse would befall anyone who disturbed the tomb, its treasures were carefully catalogued, removed and included in a famous traveling exhibition called the “Treasures of Tutankhamen.” The exhibition’s permanent home is the Egyptian Museum in Cairo.