Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News

Diamond Bar: A Changing Of The Guard

A beloved Pastor retires and passes the reins to his successor

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Sanchez Mark and Jeanne Hopper

Photo Courtesy: Sarah Sanchez
Mark and Jeanne Hopper

By Sarah Sanchez

Diamond Bar – On Sun., Aug 30, more than 400 people gathered at the Diamond Bar Community Center to celebrate two very special people: Mark and Jeanne Hopper.
The Hoppers have dedicated 27 years of faithful ministry to the Evangelical Free Church in Diamond Bar. Mark was the senior Pastor for all those years, but this fall he will step into his new part-time role as Pastor-at-Large.
“That’s what this is about. It’s not so much about retirement; it’s more of a reassignment. We’re not leaving, we just won’t be leading. So now I’m going to be there part-time, but I’ll still continue to be a part of the church,” said Pastor Mark.
Mark said they were so surprised to walk into the Diamond Bar Center to see hundreds of people there to celebrate them. “I thought we were just having cake and punch at the church with a few people. We could have never imagined something like this,” said Mark.
But their friends, family, and members of the church couldn’t imagine being anywhere else than celebrating these two amazing people. Everyone spoke highly of both of them, being impacted by the couple in some way.
Two members of Jeanne’s discipleship group, Madelyn Zaragoza and Amy Winter, have felt the love each week as they visit the Hopper’s home.
“They have been so uplifting, encouraging, empowering, and just really helping us grow while teaching us along the way,” said Winter. “They are prominent figures of the church, but they are also willing to show that they are imperfect, which is rare. Jeanne is so real in the sense that she will show you her flaws and her weaknesses, but I still look up to her as a great child of God because God loves us even though we are imperfect. Jeanne is even more willing to show us her humility and that makes me more willing to love her and love God even more.”
Even the Mayor of Diamond Bar, Steve Tye, talked about how the Hoppers have been there for him and his family through difficult times.
“Mark and Jeanne have impacted our lives in so many different ways. It gives me goose bumps even thinking about it. They really, truly treat you as family. It’s really wonderful,” said Tye.
Bruce Biller, a member of the church for 25 years and Chairman of the Elder Board, said that Mark and Jeanne have been tremendous friends and have been there alongside his family through tough times, too.
“Watching him in ministry, Pastor Mark devotes himself and gives himself to his people. He is just a great Pastor and a shepherd. Mark is always about people; people first,” Biller said.
Waldir Guerrero, the Worship Director, said that he has also seen Mark be a remarkable shepherd.
“He is a loving man, a great pillar of the church and also the community.”
Guerrero said that Mark has had an impact on his life as a great mentor, but he has also been there for him through difficult times.
Pastor Mark said that he was the one who was thankful and blessed to be a part of the church.
“We’re just very grateful and thankful to have been servants.”

Photo By Sarah Sanchez New pastor Tim Park with Mark Hopper

Photo By Sarah Sanchez
New pastor Tim Park with Mark Hopper

But he expressed his excitement for the next chapter, and said that they all love the new Senior Pastor of efreechurch, Tim Park.
On the morning of Aug. 30, a baton was literally passed from Mark Hopper to Tim Park at both church services. The baton had Park’s name engraved on it, the church name, the date, and a Bible passage.
“It feels exciting [to be the new Lead Pastor] and I’m humbled by the opportunity to receive the baton from Mark and to hopefully carry on the legacy that he has built for 27 years at our church,” said Park. “The neat thing about this transition, is that over the last almost four years, working side by side, I’ve become very familiar with his passion, his philosophy of ministry, and his leadership style. We could not have asked for a smoother Pastoral transition.”
When asked what his goals are for the church, Park said, “I will aspire to carry on the foundation that has already been set.”
Park talked about how he would like to continue to see how God’s going to use this Pastoral transition to reach a whole new generation in the community. He has already seen a change in the last year as the church has become a multi-generational and multi-cultural church.
“My hope is that in the future we will continue to see a church that reflects this community,” Park continued.
The church showed love to the Hoppers at the Diamond Bar Center as they displayed a slideshow of their lives over the years. Many members of the church, community, and his family also spoke on stage about them. In addition, Mayor Tye gave them a plaque on behalf of the City of Diamond Bar for the many years of their dedicated service in the community. Lastly, they were given luggage and two first class tickets to Europe to go see their grandchildren.
Mark Hopper was overjoyed with the love he was receiving from everyone. “I’m so thankful for the church and being a part of the community.”
Pastor Mark said that one of the greatest things the church has done while he was Pastor was start VantagePoint Church in Eastvale. He said he’s thankful that Mark Lee and Tom Lanning had the dream and willingness to go out and start the new church. Now, over 1,100 people go to Vantage Point Church and they have baptized close to 1,000 people at this church.
Pastor Mark Lee of VantagePoint Church gave a speech thanking the crowd for their giving and generosity in order to start up this church. He explained that Mark Hopper has always treated him like a son and that the Hoppers have truly impacted his and the community’s life
Guerrero said, “The legacy that Mark leaves behind is a great example for his love for people and his love for the Lord.”

 

Inland Empire: Successful Search And Rescue

62-year old female hiker found after being lost 9 days

 

Staff Reports

San Bernardino County – On Wed., Aug. 26, the Volunteer Forces Division of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBSD) received a Mutual Aid request from the California Office of Emergency Services to provide Search and Rescue assistance to Fresno County.

According to SBSD, a 62-year old woman was overdue from her hike in the Sierra Nevada mountain range. The responding searchers had to be certified for extreme terrains and be self-sufficient in the field for three days.

Four searchers and a Deputy Coordinator assisted in the effort. The searchers were inserted into the search area by a National Guard Chinook helicopter and were not able to be extracted until the morning of Sun., Aug. 30 due to smoke and poor visibility from the nearby Rough Fire.
On Sat., Aug. 29, the woman was found alive by a Fresno search team. She suffered from broken bones and survived by crawling two days to a creek so she could drink water through a filter straw. When she heard searchers nearby calling for her on the ninth day of the search, she was able to use a plastic whistle to call out to them.
Hikers are encouraged to be properly prepared with food, water, emergency supplies, a personal locator beacon, cell phone, portable charger, etc. Inform others of the hiking area and when possible, hike with another person.

For more information regarding preventative Search and Rescue, please contact San Bernardino Sheriff’s Volunteer Forces/Search and Rescue at (909) 387-0641

Walnut Valley Middle Schools Are Golden

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Walnut Valley middle schools set the Gold standard – Chaparral, South Pointe, and Suzanne have been named 2015 California Gold Ribbon Schools for having exemplary standards and practices.

“This is an honor that we at Chaparral are very proud of,” Principal Ron Thibodeaux stated. “We’ve put a lot into making our school a 21st century learning environment, and the Gold Ribbon validates the hard work of our learning community. Our teachers and staff, parents and students are wonderful!”

According to the Walnut Valley Unified School District, the state’s highest recognition went to only 373 of the 10,366 public schools. In addition, all three schools were distinguished for having Exemplary Programs in Arts Education.

Gold ribbon schools were cited for best practices that can be replicated by other schools. WVUSD programs include the 21st Century Classroom Initiative at Chaparral, STEAM Program at South Pointe, and Global Citizenship at Suzanne.

This was the first year the state issued gold ribbon awards that temporarily replace the California Distinguished Schools Program while officials create new assessment and accountability systems.

“South Pointe is proud to be recognized by the state for its innovative approach to implementing 21st century Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math programs,” said Principal Susan Arzola. “We believe that by putting the “A” (the Arts) in STEM, we provide all students a well-balanced, joyful learning experience. Come watch them STEAM ahead!”

Straight Talk With Danice

An Anonymous Letter

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Q:  I have been depressed for a long time.  I used to have really good friends, but now when I need them the most, they are never there for me anymore.  My daughter is even too busy for me.  My husband says people are busy with their own lives, but I feel neglected.  I have tried medication and a psychologist, but that didn’t help me any more than my friends did.  I gained weight from the medication, and I felt even worse about myself.  I will never do that again.  Do you have any advice to help me get my friends back into my life?

 

A:  If your friends are “really good” as you mentioned, I’m sure they have done everything they could think of to assist you in feeling better.  When there is no improvement, people often feel defeated and move on.  Let’s face it, being around a depressed person all the time is difficult and painful.  It is hardest when you really love the person.  Please try to understand the limitations of a person who is doing their best to support you. This is not easy for most people, especially, when they are not skilled in the area of your needs.  The fact that you say you feel neglected, makes me wonder if you have a sense of entitlement about what is owed to you by your loved ones.  Your friends and family do not owe you their personal time on an ongoing basis.  You also make it clear that their efforts were not really helping you anyway.  Please realize you need a skilled professional when you’re dealing with something as serious as depression.  If medication and psychotherapy have not helped you, then it’s time to have a really long talk with yourself.  Are you willing to take personal responsibility for your own emotional and mental health?  If the answer is yes, then you are about to turn the corner and improve your sense of well being.  If you truly don’t require medication or psychotherapy, and are completely resistant to trying again, then I suggest personal coaching.  A personal coach can often help you guide your life in a positive direction. For now, it would be a very good idea to forgive your family and friends for their absence in your life.  They are not responsible for your mental health and emotional happiness.  You are.  Personal responsibility on your part may help your friends and family feel better about sharing their time with you again.

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 atstraighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

Diamond Bar Burglary Suspect At Large

The investigation continues after an extensive search went cold

 

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – The incident began around noon on Wed., Sept. 2 in Diamond Bar when Deputies from Walnut/Diamond Bar Station responded to a Burglary Just Occurred call in the 800 block of Pantera Drive.

The victim of the burglary gave Deputies a description of the suspect and the car he was driving.

According to the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department, while the Deputies were responding to the call, they saw the suspect driving the vehicle, as described by the victim, away from the residence.  At that time Deputies attempted to stop the suspect and when he did not yield, a pursuit ensued.  After approximately five minutes, the ground units terminated their part and a Sheriff’s Air Unit arrived overhead and monitored the pursuit from the air.

The suspect drove eastbound on the San Bernardino (10) Freeway, and continued to the northbound Orange (57) Freeway, west on the Foothill (210) Freeway, and south on the San Gabriel (605) Freeway, where he exited at Washington Boulevard in Pico Rivera.  The Air Unit had been surveilling the suspect the entire time.

Once the suspect left the freeway, he abandoned his vehicle and ran into the San Gabriel River wash. Deputies set up a containment perimeter and a Sheriff’s K-9 was brought to the scene to search for the suspect.  The wash is chock full of dense brush and covers an extensive area. Assisting with the search operation are Deputies from Pico Rivera and Walnut/Diamond Bar Stations, and California Highway Patrol personnel.

At approximately 4:30 p.m., the search operation for the burglary suspect concluded.  The suspect was not located; however Detectives are actively investigating his whereabouts.

Anyone with information regarding this incident may contact the Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station at  (909) 595-2264.

 

Diamond Bar Princess Party

Diamond Bar Queen and her court.

Diamond Bar Queen and her court.

Calling all Diamond Bar Princesses!

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – The Miss Diamond Bar Scholarship Pageant, Inc. is hosting the 2015 Princess Tea Party for all little princesses age 10 and under.  Diamond Bar’s Queen Alexandra and her court of Princesses – Cynthia, Katherine, Megan and Rebecca – are hosting this year’s popular event, with reading, games, gifts and lots of fun!

This year’s party will be held at the Diamond Bar Library, and you can reserve a place for your little princess by calling (909) 861-4978.  More information is also available at http://www.MissDiamondBarPageant.org.   This is an event not to be missed!

DB-Princess-Invite-WEB

Help Make This Your Child’s Best School Year

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

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

School has just begun and you already feel worried.  You worry about your child repeating last year’s mistakes and you wonder just how to prevent this.  You tell yourself you did all you could to get them off to a good start and now you know most of it is truly up to them.

Maybe this year you need to get them some tutoring or maybe even some counseling.  It’s important for a student to feel good about him or herself.  It’s important for a student to believe that they can be successful if they truly try their best.  I know it’s hard sometimes to figure out the missing component, but this year, don’t wait until they are at the point of no return.

If your child is being bullied or having emotional problems, I guarantee it will get in the way of their academic performance.  Think about how it feels to go to work when you’re emotionally struggling.  It’s just as bad – if not worse – for your child.  Don’t be afraid to talk with your child or to ask for some help. You may have to learn to ask very specific questions to get them to give you more than a yes, no or okay answer.

There are so many pressures on our children and teens today.  So many of them I’ve had the honor of working with just feel so very alone and different.  These feelings can really get in the way of their academic performance and in the way of them being successful adults. Many of our students get into drugs and other bad things because they think that’s the only way they can make it through their days.

Make this the year you don’t ignore the red flags.  I know you are very busy, but you only have the here and now to help your child grow into a responsible and proud individual.

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, including 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, or via email at nancyjstoops@verizon.net.  Nancy’s books, “Midnight the Therapy Dog,” and “Live, Heal and Grow,” are available at Amazon.com.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 09.05.15

2015-Sep5-Weekly-COVERThe Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format:2015-Sep5-Weekly-WEB

La Verne: David & Margaret To Host Annual Gala

Staff Reports

La Verne – Each year, tens of thousands of children “age out” of the foster care system at age 18. Turning 18 means losing support – financial, educational, social, and otherwise – that these youth count on. Their peers in the general population get support from their families throughout emerging adulthood, becoming more independent. But when children leave foster care without having a permanent family when they age out, what should be a gradual transition often becomes an abrupt loss that puts them at risk of negative outcomes.

Consider making their future a success by attending or being a donor to David & Margaret Youth and Family Services’ 2015 Annual Gala. The Monte Carlo-themed fund raiser will be held on Fri., Oct. 16, at 6 p.m., in the Avalon Room of the Sheraton Fairplex in Pomona.  The Gala includes a gourmet meal, live music, casino-style gaming, silent auction, and more!

The 2015 Annual Gala is part of the Campaign for David & Margaret, in support of a new 36-unit supportive housing complex currently under construction to provide assistance for children transitioning out of foster care and low-income families. The Campaign will also fund a new Youth Workforce Training Center, a not-for-profit store and café, allow for facility and infrastructure improvements, and create an endowment fund to sustain the agency long term.

Founded in 1910, D&M serves more than 1,000 clients annually through a comprehensive range of services. These include residentially based programs for adolescent girls, a foster family agency, adoption assistance, mental health services, treatment for learning disabilities, school and community-based education, and mentoring programs. The agency also has a chemical dependency unit that is certified by the State of California. Its specialized non-public Joan Macy School serves special education students in Grades 1-12 from D&M, as well as students from area school districts.

Event sponsorships are available that include admission and advertising in the event program. Silent auction donations are also welcomed and will also be acknowledged in the program. For more information, contact Publicity Coordinator, Julie Griffith, at GriffithJ@DavidandMargaret.org, or call (909) 596-5921, ext. 3180.

If you are unable to participate in this year’s gala, please consider making a gift today at http://tinyurl.com/DavidandMargaret-com-giving or contact Development Director, Michael Urquidez, at UrquidezM@DavidandMargaret.org, or call (909) 596-5921, ext. 3246 to learn more about other ways to support the agency’s mission and services.

End of Summer Party Ideas

Photo Courtesy: Pinterest

Photo Courtesy: Pinterest

By Claire Lewis

Summer is winding down, and now is the time to plan a fun get-together before the season ends. You don’t need to spend a lot of money or travel to exotic locations.  Enjoy a mini Staycation and invite family and friends to kick back and celebrate the end of summer.

Backyard ‘Beach’ Party:  Bring the beach to your friends!  Sprinkle a little sand over your patio, fire up the grill, plant some Tiki torches around the yard and set out towels and low-back chairs.  Even a kiddie pool to put your feet in will give off a beach vibe, and with a cool menu, your guests will have a party to remember.  Grill burgers, cut watermelon wedges and put them on Popsicle sticks, and put chips and other snacks in plastic sand buckets.  Whip up a fun summer punch, and get that party started!  Don’t forget to turn on Beach Boys music.

Sunset Party:  Short on time?  Invite guests over for a sunset-only party.  Set out chairs pointed in the direction of the sunset and serve a fun summer cocktail to toast the end of the day.  Have a fire pit?  Even better!  Serve S’mores with a wide variety of candy bars and different flavors of graham crackers to spice up your sunset.  Play a little cool jazz and you’ll have an elegant evening to remember.

Outdoor Movie Night:  If you have a white sheet and a projector, you can turn your back yard into a movie theater.  Set up chairs facing the screen or spread some blankets and pillows on the ground, and show a fun summer movie.  Serve gourmet popcorn (every try butter, parmesan cheese and a little fresh thyme? Amazing!), mini candy bars, and an ice bucket filled with old-time sodas in glass bottles.  You’ll be the hit of summer!  The movie can be changed toward your audience…Family Fun Night, or Adults Only.

Book a party now while the summer nights are still warm.  A fun event is just a backyard away!

Kelly Services 2016 Future Engineers Scholarship

By Brian Smith

Troy, MI – Kelly Services is accepting applications for its annual, “Future Engineers Scholarship,” a $5,000 award that will be presented to one eligible undergraduate student in December 2015. The scholarship award – which can be used for tuition, fees, books, and room and board expenses for the 2016 calendar year – is awarded to one student based on a written essay, documented acceptance into a school of engineering, demonstrated academic success and an intention to pursue a career in the field of engineering.

The scholarship is designed to support and encourage engineering students in the United States and Canada, while increasing awareness of engineering as a career path with unlimited potential.

Applications will be reviewed with consideration given to the candidate’s field of study and career objectives, as well as the extent to which the individual demonstrates the commitment and potential to make a significant contribution in his or her field.

To be considered for the Future Engineers Scholarship, a student must:

  • Be a full-time student at the time of application submittal, pursuing a degree at an accredited institution of higher education in the United States or Canada during the 2016 calendar year, and be accepted into a school of engineering.
  • Have a college cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale (or 3.5 or higher on a 4.5 scale, and so forth).
  • Hold second- or third-year undergraduate status during the 2016 calendar year. Undergraduate students in their first or fourth years of study and those graduating on or before June 2016 are not eligible.
  • Be a United States or Canadian citizen or a resident alien/landed immigrant; be in good legal standing with their university if on a student visa, or in the case of candidates from American Samoa or the Commonwealth of the Mariana Islands, a United States national.

Submission Materials:

  • Candidate background information
  • Candidate essay (800-1,200 words)
  • Two independent evaluations of the candidate
  • College transcripts

Applications and additional information on the Future Engineers Scholarship are available at: www.kelleyengineering.com/scholarships. The submission deadline is Oct. 15, 2015.

 

As a global leader in providing workforce solutions, Kelly Services, Inc. (Nasdaq: KELYA, KELYB) and its subsidiaries, offer a comprehensive array of outsourcing and consulting services as well as world-class staffing on a temporary, temporary-to-hire and direct-hire basis. Kelly® has a role in managing employment opportunities for more than one million workers around the globe by employing 550,000 of these individuals directly with the remaining workers engaged through its talent supply chain network of supplier partners. Revenue in 2014 was $5.6 billion. Visit kellyservices.com and connect with us on Facebook, Linkedin and Twitter. Kelly is celebrating its 50th anniversary of providing engineering talent to clients. Since 1965, Kelly’s engineering specialty has grown to be recognized as a leading provider of engineering resource to customers in industries such as aerospace, automotive, chemical, defense, electronics, energy, medical device, and pharmaceutical.

Walnut Student Awarded Scholarship

Staff Reports

Walnut – Shawn Wu, of Walnut, has been awarded a 2015-16 Stater Bros. Markets Scholarship in the amount of $1,500 through the California Grocers Association Educational Foundation (CGAEF).

Wu graduated from Walnut High School in 2014.  He will attend UC Riverside this fall and major in Business Informatics.  Wu’s accomplishments include winning 3rd Place for Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) 2013 Sectionals; 1st Place for FBLA 2014 Sectionals; AP Scholar with Honor award; National Financial Literary Challenge; AP Scholar with Distinction Award; and UCR’s Chancellor’s Scholarship.

Foundation scholarships are awarded annually to college students who are either employees or dependents of employees of California Grocers Association member companies, such as State Bros. Markets.

College scholarships are awarded on academic merit, evidence of outstanding character and leadership potential.  Applicants must enroll at an accredited, nonprofit college or university in the United States in the fall of 2015.

This year, the CGAEF awarded 327 scholarships totaling a record $552,500.  Since the program’s inception, the Foundation has awarded more than $4 million in scholarships.

“We are proud to award college scholarships to these deserving students,” said CGAEF President, Ronald Fong. “We are encouraged by their desire, drive and determination to obtain a higher education and are grateful to assist in that cause.”

For more information regarding the Foundation and its programs, visit ccgaef.org.

Orange County Barber Arrested For Lewd Acts With Minor

Public assistance requested in identifying additional victims

 

Photo Courtesy: SAPD Ruben Olguin

Photo Courtesy: SAPD
Ruben Olguin

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – On Fri., Aug. 14, at approximately 11 a.m., Santa Ana Police Detectives arrested Ruben Olguin, 51, of Santa Ana, for Lewd Acts with a Child. Olguin was arrested from his place of employment, the Salon De Belleza Nuevo Guadalajara, located at 118 E. 4th St. in Santa Ana.
According to the SAPD, this past July, a 14-year old victim and his mother went to their usual barber – Olguin – at the Salon De Belleza Nuevo Guadalajara. The victim and his mother had been to the same barber several times and trusted him. Olguin took the victim to a private location in the back of the Salon to wash and shampoo the child’s hair. There, it is alleged that Olguin molested the victim while the mother waited in the front of the store.
Olguin is currently being held at the Orange County Jail with bail set at $100,000.
Due to Olguin’s access to children and the public, the SAPD is asking for the public’s help in identifying any additional victims or witnesses who may have observed him acting inappropriately.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact Detective Corporal Javier Aceves at (714) 245-8542 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at 1-855-TIP-OCCS.

Take Flamenco, Not Drugs

It’s a Healthy Addiction That “Heals”

Photo Courtesy: esenciaflamenca.com

Photo Courtesy: esenciaflamenca.com

Staff Reports

San Pedro – Flamenco dance teacher, Sarah Parra, offers her students an escape through the dance, the chance to dress up, and a great workout.

For your first experience come to El Cabaret Flamenco, a live performance on Oct. 18, 2 p.m., at the Grand Annex, located at 434 W. 6th St., in San Pedro.  You won’t have to dance to reap the healing benefits, but you are sure to feel its power in the intimacy of this perfect-for-Flamenco dance venue.

As a young girl in San Diego, Parra was drawn to the Spanish culture, but could only take regular (tap, ballet, modern) dance lessons. Something lacked, that is until one of her teachers took her aside and said, “You have the perfect body for Flamenco.”

What’s ironic about that? Every body is good for Flamenco (like the old milk commercials, but different). Curvy is better, passionate is best. In fact, some of the best female Flamenco dancers are, ahem, “healthy.”

When Parra found that UCI offered Flamenco, she was on her way. Underneath the women’s beautifully full, frilly, fancy, and yet tightly fitted bodice dresses, the Flamenco dancer finds therapy – physical, mental and spiritual.

This is a comment from one of Parra’s many grateful students: “Flamenco gives me a deeper sense of self and creativity that I can’t find from any other art form. The fire and fury of flamenco is ravenous …”

And another: “Esencia Flamenca is a great environment where I feel the passion of an art form: Flamenco.”

Indeed, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) now recognizes Flamenco on its “List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.”  Parra believes Flamenco gives Americans the chance to fill their cultural hunger with a dance form that developed in Southern Spain amongst the gypsies that migrated from northern India.

“We live in violent times,” Parra says. “Flamenco is a place where people can channel their anger and their emotions.”

Parra teaches males and females of all ages, and recommends Flamenco for young girls to release teen angst, and to be okay with – and even celebrate – their bodies.

”If everything comes together perfectly, the traditional complement of performers – guitarist, singer, palmista (hand rhythm), and dancer – can be overcome by “duende,” (which loosely means having soul, a heightened state of emotion, expression and authenticity, often connected with flamenco), and with luck the feeling spills over to the audience,” says Parra.

Parra opened Esencia Flamenca Dance Company in 2000, currently located at 3257 Katella Ave., in Los Alamitos.  She has been teaching and performing Flamenco dance for over 20 years in Southern California. Parra has a bachelor’s degree in Dance from UCI, and has studied extensively in Madrid, Sevilla, and Jerez. Her classes cater to all levels from beginning to advanced, and to all ages from Mommy and Me (ages 3-5) up to seniors.

Parra’s mission is, “To enrich the lives of Southern Californians by exposing them to the art of Flamenco.”

For more information, call (562) 761-1618, or visit esenciaflamenca.com.  Tickets for the El Cabaret Flamenco are $25 to $45, with the following individuals performing:  Jesus Montoya, Kai Narezo, Joey Heredia, Sarah Parra, Ricardo Chavez, Jenn Silva, Rosy Banuelos, and Marcela Montano.

Baldwin Park Unified Students Praised For AP Success

Photo Courtesy: BP Unified

Photo Courtesy: BP Unified
Sierra Vista High senior, Anel Castellanos, earned Advanced Placement Scholar with Distinction honors for passing six AP exams with scores of 4 and 5 during her sophomore and junior year. She is taking additional AP classes this year.

By William Diepenbrock

Baldwin Park – 104 students at Baldwin Park Unified’s two comprehensive high schools are being honored as AP Scholars by the College Board for their stellar success on Advanced Placement (AP) exams.

The exams are the culmination of the College Board’s AP program, that is designed to give high school students the opportunity to take college-level courses. Students who succeed on AP exams show they are ready for the rigors of college, may be allowed to skip some college courses and are more likely to graduate college on time.

AP exams are graded from 1 to 5 points. To be an AP Scholar, a student must earn a minimum score of 3 – the lowest passing grade – on three or more exams. To be an AP Scholar with Honor, a student must average 3.25 with a minimum score of 3 on four or more exams. To be an AP Scholar with Distinction, a student must average 3.5, with a minimum score of 3 on five or more exams.

Of the 104 students honored at Sierra Vista and Baldwin Park high schools, 68 were recognized as AP Scholars, 17 as AP Scholars with Honor, and 19 as AP Scholars with Distinction.

“We are proud of all our students who take on the challenge of these AP classes. These are extraordinarily demanding programs, but they deliver equally rewarding benefits,” said Baldwin Park Unified Superintendent, Dr. Paul Sevillano.

In 2014-15, 1,579 Baldwin Park Unified students took AP exams, including some who took more than ten. Subjects included art history, studio art, English language, European history, U.S. government, U.S. history, calculus, biology, chemistry, physics and Spanish.

Sierra Vista senior, Anel Castellanos, achieved one of the District’s highest average scores, earning three 4s and three 5s on six AP exams. That success earned her the status of AP Scholar with Distinction, the College Board’s second-highest honor.

Castellanos said the AP program helped inspire her passion for science and medicine.

“It helped me pick the career I wanted,” said Castellanos, who is also a forward on the Don’s varsity girls basketball team. “I want to become a biomedical engineer, perhaps specializing in helping create better artificial limbs.”

Castellanos began kindergarten at De Anza Elementary as an English learner. In 2008, after passing exams, she was designated as fluent English proficient. She is a graduate of Sierra Vista Junior High, where she participated in an accelerated math program, passing geometry as an 8th Grader.

Castellanos took her first AP exams as a sophomore, scoring a 5 on AP Calculus AB, and a 4 in AP World History. As a junior, she scored 5s in AP Calculus BC, AP Spanish Language and Culture, and 4s in AP U.S. History and AP English Language.

Sierra Vista High calculus teacher, Daniel G. Toohey, said he could tell in the first two weeks of Castellanos’ sophomore year that she was something special.

“She excels because she shows great attention to detail, a commitment to do her work exactly as I demonstrate it, and a level of maturity that I rarely see from someone her age,” Toohey said.

Castellanos’ perfect grades in AP and regular classes elevated her 4.0 GPA to a weighted GPA of 4.5, matching her 4.5 average on AP exams. This year, she will take AP Biology and AP Computer Science. If she earns at least 4s in those subjects, she will qualify as a National AP Scholar – the College Board’s highest honor.

 

 

Walnut Council Recap

Photo Courtesy: Natalie Kim

Photo Courtesy: Natalie Kim
Joelle Julve (shown with fiance, Danny), Assistant Planner, is recognized by the Walnut City Council.

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – The Aug. 26 Walnut City Council meeting began with two presentations. The first was for Joelle Julve, in recognition of her outstanding work as Assistant Planner. The second was for the Chinese American Association of Walnut, in recognition of 26 years of sharing and celebrating Chinese traditions and culture with the residents of Walnut.

Following the Communications, the Council approved the minutes of the July 22 meeting, and performed the first reading of an ordinance to amend the City’s current regulation on antennas and communication facilities, requiring a greater distance from schools and residential areas. The ordinance is set for a second reading and public hearing on Sept. 9.

The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including an allowance of $884,330.06 in claims and demands; authorization to destroy certain records pursuant to Resolution No. 01-18; the award of a bid to All City Management for school crossing guard services; and appointed Jackie Chan, Codie Chang, Renee Hua, Sarah Kim, Robert Lee, Candice Ma, and Paula Yang to the Youth Advisory Commision. The Council also waived parking restrictions on La Puente Road for the evening of Sept. 5 in light of Mt. Sac’s football game hosted at the Walnut High School football field, to prevent overflow parking from clogging residential streets. The Council will discuss waiving parking restrictions on same such evenings for the rest of the season on Sept. 9, after observing traffic and overflow parking on Sept. 5.

Next, the Council moved to discussion and transaction items. Term limits, which Walnut residents have been claiming are long overdue for the City, was the first item discussed. Although all members of the Council agreed that new blood and new ideas led to a better City and a better City government, some also expressed concern over possible drawbacks of term limits, such as a City Council that was unable to effectively run due to lack of expertise. The Council will vote to put term limits on the April 2016 ballot during its next meeting on Sept. 9. The Council also approved a utilization of $6,000 from the General Fund reserve to print and distribute a City-wide mailer notifying Walnut residents of the current state of the Mt. Sac parking structure, and Mt. Sac’s future plans concerning the structure. The Council also allowed the Planning Commission additional time to approve a tentative tract map for the development of a two lot subdivision of undeveloped land.

After reports and comments, the Council adjourned.  The next meeting will be held on Sept. 9, at 7 p.m., in the Council Chambers located at 21202 La Puente Road.

Inland Empire: Sheriff’s Air Rescue

Photo Courtesy: SBSD

Photo Courtesy: SBSD

Staff Reports

Forest Falls – On Tues., Aug. 25, hiker Alexis Lopez was climbing at Big Falls, in Forest Falls, when he fell approximately 15 feet, hitting his face on the rocks.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Sheriff’s Air Rescue 306, manned by Pilot Corporal Mike Gilley, Crew Chief Deputy Paul Kowalski, SBCFD Captain Jack DeJong, and SBCFD Firefighter/ Paramedic Eric Sherwin, were dispatched to assist with Lopez’ rescue.

Kowalski lowered Sherwin via hoist to access Lopez. Due to the extent of Lopez’ injuries, and the remote location of his fall, the crew determined a hoist rescue was necessary.

Lopez was hoisted 120′ out of the falls and then transported in stable condition to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center to be treated for non-life threatening injuries.

Chino Farmer’s Market At The Preserve

Image Courtesy: HealthyChino.com

Image Courtesy: HealthyChino.com

Staff Reports

Chino – The City of Chino and the Southland Farmer’s Market Association recently launched the Chino Farmers’ Market at the Preserve Community Center.  The Market features a variety of fruits and vegetables, hummus, breads, spices, freshly squeezed lemonade, and much more.

Approximately 400 to 500 visitors attended the Market on opening day, Aug. 8.

Interested patrons can visit this year-round Farmers’ Market on Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Preserve Community Center, located at 15800 Main Street in Chino.  Cash, credit cards, EBT, and WIC are accepted.  Visitors are encouraged to think green and bring reusable bags.

The Chino Farmers’ Market not only offer an opportunity for residents to eat healthy, but locals can get in a little exercise by walking or biking over to do their shopping.

For more information about the Chino Farmers’ Market at the Preserve, please contact (909) 334-3478, or visit www.healthychino.com.

Straight Talk With Danice

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

A Letter From C.J.

Q:  I am a senior citizen.  I am wondering how to overcome a constant negative focus on my health issues.  These issues are both real and imaginary.  My poor health consumes my thoughts, and I feel depressed.  I don’t want to spend the rest of my life feeling this way.  Please help.

A:  It’s important to understand that where you place your focus in life is where you will have the most growth.  If you focus on negative matters, your negative concerns will seem to expand.   My guess is that you don’t have enough balance in your life.  Constantly looking at a problem is not as helpful as concentrating on a solution.  Try to balance your worry with some activities that bring you joy.  Just because you are a senior citizen, does not mean you have to start preparing for a life filled with illness.  Better yet, it’s time to plan for as much enjoyment as possible.  Shift your thoughts to people and situations that bring laughter into your life.  Release the ones that bring you upset and grief.  This is very important. If you are sitting around watching television as your main activity, you are taking on a lot of negativity from the news and being exposed to lots of commercials relating to health disorders.  Free yourself from all the negative feedback and visit some healthy and happy friends and family instead.  If visiting is too hard, then invite them to visit you, but don’t weigh the conversation down with your health concerns.  Altering your point of view will alter your life.  I hope you realize the choice is yours to make.

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 atstraighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

Chino Hills Burglary Arrest

Photo Courtesy: Flickr

Photo Courtesy: Flickr

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Fri., Aug. 21, Deputies from the Chino Hills Police Department responded to the Mission Hills Apartments located at 3100 Chino Hills Parkway in reference to a vehicle burglary.

According to the Chino Hills Police Department, investigation found that a suspect had broken the passenger window of a vehicle and took a laptop computer and an Apple iPad.  The victim was able to activate the Find My iPad app, which led Deputies to the 13300 block of Saddle Lane in the city of Chino.

At that residence, the Chino Hills Detective Bureau had also responded to a report of a stolen vehicle, which was located with the suspect – Gerardo Cebreros-Vargas, 23, of Chino.  The vehicle was found to have stolen property – including the stolen iPad – from at least six victims from Chino and Chino Hills.

Through investigation, Deputies determined that an additional stolen vehicle was involved in these crimes.  The second vehicle was located at 4200 Village Drive in Chino Hills.

Cebreros-Vargas was booked into the West Valley Detention Center without further incident, and was charged with Vehicle Burglary, Grand Theft, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, and Possession of Stolen Property.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Chino Hills Police Station at (909) 364-2000, or WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME.