Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News

Team Challenge Honored Hero

(Photo Courtesy: Stacy Dylan) Lowell, Jonah, and Stacy Dylan at a Team Challenge event.

(Photo Courtesy: Stacy Dylan)
Lowell, Jonah, and Stacy Dylan at a Team Challenge event.

Staff Reports

Los Angeles – Lowell Dylan is not your typical 14-year old boy.  At just 2-years of age, Lowell was diagnosed with severe Crohn’s Disease, and his world has been profoundly changed.

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are serious, life altering chronic illnesses. This is not just an upset stomach or irritable bowel syndrome. These are autoimmune disorders which profoundly impact the quality of a person’s life.  These diseases can be especially aggressive in children, and often cause growth failure because of an inability to absorb nutrients properly.

(Photo Courtesy: Stacy Dylan) Lowell Dylan

(Photo Courtesy: Stacy Dylan)
Lowell Dylan

Lowell’s mother, Stacy Dylan, feels that there is nothing as difficult as watching your child live with daily pain, fatigue, and the many other symptoms of an Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Lowell has been on nearly every medication available, most of the time with too many side effects and no results.

Lowell’s disease has been very challenging for the family with countless hospital stays and surgeries. There are periods of time where he could not eat solid food and had to receive nutrition through a PICC line.  He also endures countless medication injections, medical tests, procedures, and doctors’ visits.

In February 2013, things took a turn for the worse when Lowell’s bowel perforated after a double balloon colonoscopy. He had to immediately have surgery and was recovering in the ICU, when just four days later a complication resulted in another surgery. In total, Lowell spent two weeks at Cedars Sinai with his mother by his side every day.  This past year, he had two more surgeries, and was hospitalized for pain, dehydration and other issues.

“Lowell is very resilient and lives his life in a way that puts his disease secondary to just being a kid. He plays sports, performs in piano recitals and is also a good student. He missed about a third of the [school] year in the past few years, but manages to complete school with really good grades. Anyone who knows Lowell is aware of his perseverance, determination, ever present sense of humor, and ability to make light of his situation. That is not to say that he does not experience sadness and dark days.  But his ability to not let his disease define him is truly an inspiration,” says Stacy.

Because of her son and the 1.6 million people living with Crohn’s Disease, Stacy has been participating in Team Challenge for the past several years, and the upcoming San Diego Triathlon will be her 11th event.

Stacy has found inspiration and says, “With Team Challenge, I have found a community, made new friends, and it has been a great way to keep fit while doing something so important.  We are raising awareness and money for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, which is working hard every day to bring new treatments and a cure that will help Lowell and all the other amazing children and adults I have met over the years who suffer and fight these diseases every day.”

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are painful, medically incurable illnesses that attack the digestive system. Crohn’s Disease may attack anywhere from the mouth to the anus, while Ulcerative Colitis inflames only the large intestine (colon). Symptoms may include abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fever and weight loss. Many patients require hospitalization and surgery.  These illnesses can cause severe complications, including colon cancer in patients with long-term disease. Approximately 1.6 million American adults and children suffer from Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis, with as many as 150,000 under the age of 18.  Most people develop the diseases between the ages of 15 and 35.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America’s mission is to cure Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. The Foundation ranks third among leading health nonprofits in the percentage of expense devoted to research toward a cure, and more than 81 cents of every dollar the Foundation spends goes to mission-critical programs. The Foundation consistently meets the standards of organizations that monitor charities, including the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance (give.org) and the American Institute of Philanthropy (charitywatch.org). For more information, contact the Foundation at (800) 932-2423 or visit www.ccfa.org.

If you would like to help Stacy and Lowell in their fight against Crohn’s and Colitis, visit CCTeamChallenge.org to register for an event.  You can also make a donation by visiting http://online.ccfa.org/goto/StacyNapa2015.

Helpful Tax-Saving Strategies

By Ginny Grimsley

Millions of Americans face a challenge in meeting their budgets every month – not just financially, but also in their time budgets, says investment advisor, Reid Abedeen.

“Knowledge is power and time is often money, but what if you don’t have the time to empower yourself with knowledge? For many households, that often means losing out on thousands of dollars through tax deductions,” says Abedeen, a partner at Safeguard Investment Advisory Group, LLC (www.safeguardinvestment.com).

“As a family man myself, I understand what it means to work hard to provide the best possible for my wife and children. Had I not worked in the financial sector for almost two decades, I might not have understood how to best troubleshoot my tax return, I sympathize.”

Abedeen offers the following strategies that may be relevant for your family this tax season.

  • Take tax deductions for capital loss. If your capital losses exceed your capital gains, the excess can be deducted on your tax return and used to reduce other income, such as wages, up to an annual limit of $3,000, or $1,500 if you are married filing separately. However, you may deduct capital losses only on investment property, not on property held for personal use.
  • Fund your retirement to the max. You can contribute up to $5,500 to an IRA in tax-year 2014, or $6,500 if you are age 50 or older. Workers in the 25 percent tax bracket who contributed $5,500 to an IRA would save $1,375 on their 2014 tax bills. You’ll want to check your eligibility and understand the deadline for the 2014 deduction. If you make a deposit between Jan. 1 and Apr. 15, you need to tell the financial institution which year the contribution is for.
  • Advisory fees are tax-deductible. Don’t feel like spending money to save and make money? There’s a workaround. Before closing the door on the possibility, inquire with a financial expert. Most are happy to give a free initial consultation, and you don’t have to be a millionaire to make it worth your while.
  • Gift assets to children. You don’t even have to file a gift tax return on an asset that’s valued less than $12,000, which is not taxable. If the fair market value of the gifted asset is more than $12,000 per person per year, but less than $1 million, there is the requirement of filing a gift tax return, but you won’t be taxed. The gift still is not income taxable to the recipient.
  • Deduct a home-based office when used for your employer. If space in your home is used exclusively and regularly for a trade, you can count that as a deductible. Calculate the square footage of your home office and divide the area of your office by the area of your house. If the percentage is 14 percent, for example, that represents the percentage of your total home expenses that can be allocated toward the home office deduction. For further questions, consult a professional.

“You’ll want to be very vigilant regarding these details of these deductions,” Abedeen says. “For any questions, I seriously recommend consulting a professional.”

CV Firefighters Help Family After Fire

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Staff Reports

Chino – On Mar. 4, the Chino Valley Fire District responded to a residential structure fire on the 12900 block of Falcon Place in the city of Chino.

The home sustained substantial fire and smoke damage, displacing a family of eight and two dogs.

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Chino Valley Fire District firefighters subsequently received information that one of the children who lived in the home would be celebrating a birthday soon.  The Chino Valley Fire Foundation got together and purchased gift cards to local restaurants for the entire family, as well as toys for all the children in the home, including the young boy celebrating a birthday.

The family visited one of the local fire stations to receive the gifts, and thank the firefighters for their help (and for saving their two dogs).

Walnut Gets Sprinkled With Happiness

Happiness Sprinkling Project Coming to Suzanne Middle School

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – On Mar. 18 at Suzanne Middle School, a group of smiling people wearing bright yellow shirts were Sprinkling Happiness.

Created by Laura Lavigne, founder of the Anacortes Center for Happiness, The Happiness Sprinkling Project is “crazy simple and crazy powerful.”

A group of people get together, wearing bright yellow shirts. They gather at a busy spot in the town where they live.  They hold up Happiness Signs. Signs that say things like, “It’s Going to be All Right,” “Breathe,” and “You are Loved.”

They do this for an hour and as they do, magic happens. People being “sprinkled” on their way home from work are surprised, puzzled…and moved.  They smile, they wave, and they honk. Many join in and start some Sprinkling themselves.

The messages are surprising because they ask nothing of the viewer, but instead send an unexpected burst of light, helping people tap into their own hope, strength and joy.

Drama, PALS, and PLUS students were leaders on the day of happiness, sharing positive messages with parents and students on campus, and local seniors.

The Sprinklings started in May 2012, and have been spreading like “happiness.” They have been received with a mix of surprise, delight and occasionally tears of emotion.

In the past few months, Happiness Ambassadors have popped up in Washington DC, Chicago, California, Oregon, Seattle, Florida, Indiana, and Canada. Together they are gradually building a “Happiness Sprinkling Tribe” whose vision is to expand into inner cities and eventually all over the world; they have recently received requests from India, Italy, Germany and the Caribbean.

This growing movement is building a web of Happiness Ambassadors and Happiness Sprinklers, and changing the world one gathering at a time. One of the powerful aspects of this event is that the sets of signs get shipped from one Ambassador to the next, thus forming a global “Happiness Chain Letter,” adopting a very simple Pay It Forward concept.

The Happiness Sprinkling Project has been featured on the GoodNews Network, DailyGood.org, NBC, CBS News, The Huffington Post, Ellen DeGeneres’ blog, and the TEDx platform.

Anyone is invited join in and participate in this powerful and FUN event!  For more information, email info@happinesssprinklingproject.org, or call (360) 464-2229. The Suzanne Middle School contact is teacher, Helen Papadopoulos, (909) 594-1657.

 

Chino Host Town For Special Olympics

Special Olympics athletes from Poland and Laos will visit

(Photo Courtesy: SpecialOlympics.org) LA2015.org

(Photo Courtesy: SpecialOlympics.org)
LA2015.org

Staff Reports

Chino – The Chino Valley is excited to welcome the countries of Poland and Laos as part of the Special Olympics World Games Host Town program.

These international athletes will join 7,000 competitors, representing 177 countries, for the 2015 Special Olympics World Games, being staged in Los Angeles, July 25 through Aug. 2.  This will be the largest sports and humanitarian event anywhere in the world this year, and the single biggest event in Los Angeles since the 1984 Olympic Games.

As a Host Town, the Chino Valley will highlight the wonderful community activities, local athletic opportunities and welcoming traditions that they share in the cities of Chino and Chino Hills.  During the visit, the Chino Valley will provide food, transportation, volunteer staffing and coordination, and events for the athletes and their coaches.

“The Chino Valley is proud of its distinction as one of the 100 Best Communities for young people.  Our communities have a rich history of excellence in athletics, youth opportunities, and healthy lifestyles.  The Special Olympics is the embodiment of excellence, opportunity and athletics.  Our partnership is a natural fit and we are honored to be a part of the Host Town Program,” said Chino Mayor, Dennis Yates.

You can help the Chino Valley make the Host Town program an amazing experience for the athletes.  It takes $100 to host one athlete during one day (including food and lodging) or $300 for all three days.  Your generous support will unite the community in welcoming its international delegates.  To donate, please visit http://www.la2015.org/host-town/list/, and click on Chino.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

(Photo By: Raymond Mendoza) Senior Management Analyst, Anthony Santos, discusses the details of the City's Dial-A-Ride service.

(Photo By: Raymond Mendoza)
Senior Management Analyst, Anthony Santos, discusses the details of the City’s Dial-A-Ride service.

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met with a relatively short meeting on Saint Patrick’s Day, Mar. 17.  The big issue of the evening concerned the renewal of the City’s Dial-A-Ride program.

Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Lyons was absent from the meeting.

As the first order of business, the Council read off the list of scheduled events, including the Planning Commission meeting on Mar. 24, the State of the City event on Mar. 25, the Parks and Recreation Commission Meeting on Mar. 26, the Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Apr. 4, and the next City Council meeting on Apr. 7.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including the minutes for the Mar. 3 study session and regular meeting of the City Council; the minutes for the Jan. 22 Parks and Recreation Commission; the ratification of a check register in the amount of $1,229,546; the award of contract to ICG, Inc. in an amount not-to-exceed $20,000 for the design of the Longview Park North Swing Set expansion and as-needed conceptual design work, and appropriation of $12,000 from savings in the Economic Development/Professional Services Account; the approval of Contract Amendment No. 3 with Fehr & Peers in the amount of $18,000 for the professional services related to State Route57/60 Freeway Congestion Relief Strategy; and the adoption of resolution for granting an easement for construction, operation and maintenance of Southern California Edison facilities located on Lot 63 of Tract 72295, commonly referred to as Diamond Canyon Park.

Without any other business, the Council moved onto Considerations concerning the approval of a three year contract for a company to provide Dial-A-Ride service to the City. Dial-A-Ride is a city-wide transportation service that gives residents a ride anywhere in Diamond Bar for 50 cents, and rides to hospitals beyond the city limits for $1.50.

According to Diamond Bar Senior Management Analyst, Anthony Santos, the program has been a staple in the City since 1995, and is available for senior citizens over 60 and any disabled adult residents. With Santos’ recommendation, the City would cease its partnership with California Yellow Cab – the company which held the previous contract – and begin a new contract with American Cab Co., LLC.

Santos said one of the major factors in switching over to American Cab Company was the extensive savings for the City, which would be estimated at nearly $100,000 per year.

“American Cab was the best cost of the most responsive bidders,” Santos said. “We’re estimating approximately $25,000 per month and over $300,000 per year. California Yellow (Cab) was looking at over $30,000 per month and closer to almost $400,000 a year.”

After Santos’ explanation, Council member Carol Herrera said the transition to the new Dial-A-Ride service provider will be “simple and seamless,” and that it will continue to provide an outstanding service to the Diamond Bar residents.

The City Council approved the three-year contract agreement with American Cab Co., LLC for approximately $350,000, to be paid through the City’s Proposition C Local Return Funds.

Residents looking to use the Dial-A-Cab service can call (800) 578-6555.

The Council then adjourned with plans to meet again on Apr. 7 at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center at 21865 Copley Drive.

Local Heroes Save A Life

CPD Officer and Good Samaritans rescue driver from burning car

Photo Courtesy: Flickr.com

Photo Courtesy: Flickr.com

Staff Reports

Corona – On Thurs., Mar. 5 at about 11:53 p.m., the Corona Police Department dispatched an Officer to the 1100 block of E. Foothill Parkway regarding a vehicle fire.

Upon arrival, Officer Michael Neff observed a white Ford Escape crashed into a tree with its engine compartment fully engulfed in flames. Two citizens were already on scene trying to render assistance to the trapped driver.
Officer Neff obtained a fire extinguisher from the trunk of his patrol vehicle and attempted to extinguish the fire.  Neff, citizen Kenneth Lee, and an unidentified person had just enough time to rescue the driver from the burning vehicle.

The Corona Fire Department arrived on scene and extinguished the fire.

The driver was later identified as Nicole Edson, 35, of Corona. She was transported to Riverside Community Hospital with major injuries related to the traffic collision. Edson was the sole occupant of the vehicle, and was later arrested for suspicion of driving under the influence of alcohol.

Officer Neff, Kenneth Lee, and the unidentified citizen were not injured during the incident and are being commended for their actions.

The Corona Police Department is seeking information that will help identify the unknown person who assisted with the rescue. Please call Sergeant Paul Mercado at (951) 736-2280.

 

Straight Talk With Danice

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

New neighbors just moved in across the street two weeks ago.  I was doing yard work as I watched the man working hard unloading boxes into his garage.  When I went inside to make sandwiches for my kids, I decided to make him one too.  He was very grateful for the plate of food when I walked across the street and introduced myself.  I told him my husband’s name and the names of our two sons and even our dog’s name.  He told me his wife’s name.  Being neighborly, I told him if they needed anything to let us know.  The guy was very nice and appreciative.  A few days later, I happened to see both he and his wife working in the garage.  I walked over and introduced myself to her this time.  She sneered at me and gave me a terrible look as if I were her personal enemy.  He looked very uncomfortable and apologetic, but he never said a word.  I quickly excused myself and went home.  I am afraid to even look in their direction now.  Did I make a mistake by taking a sandwich to the man?   I am very confused.

-Debbie A.

Dear Debbie:

I just hate to hear about a person who feels wrong, confused or diminished for being kind hearted, and in your case, generous.  I think you are witnessing a huge disparity in the way the power is distributed in the household across the street.  The man is obviously bullied by his wife, and of course that is none of your business.  It’s a shame that you will not be able to develop a friendly relationship, but accept it for what it is.  You can’t save people from themselves.  If he chooses to live this way, steer clear.  If he waves, wave back, but keep a safe distance.  If his wife is so insecure that she openly sneered at you, she’s way too much drama.  Nice people like you don’t need this sort of negativity.  Sorry this didn’t work out, but please don’t change.  You seem like a wonderful person.

Warmest Regards,

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.

Schools Steam Ahead at Science Olympiad Regionals

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) Walnut HS took 2nd Place at the L.A. County Science Olympiad on Feb. 28 (shown with teacher and advisor, Tony Goossens).

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Walnut HS took 2nd Place at the L.A. County Science Olympiad on Feb. 28 (shown with teacher and advisor, Tony Goossens).

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley schools continued their record of exemplary performance during the L.A. County Science Olympiad, held at Occidental College on Feb. 28. There were 140 elementary and secondary schools that participated in the all-day science event.

Walnut High scored 2nd Place, and Diamond Bar High earned 3rd Place award out of 40 participating high school teams.

“These students worked very hard with a dedication that went far beyond expectations,” said Tony Goossens, teacher advisor for the WHS team. “They really represent some of the best minds in the State.”

40 teams competed in the middle school division. Suzanne took 3rd Place, Chaparral 4th Place, and South Point 5th Place.

“What made this year’s 3rd Place win even more special was that it was truly a team effort,” said Suzanne science teacher advisor, Susan Warren. “Every member of this amazing team brought home an individual medal for at least one of the 23 events.”

These five middle and high school teams will now advance to the state competition on April 4 at Canyon High School in Anaheim.

Several elementary schools competed among 60 teams in the Division A tournament, many for the first time. Westhoff won the coveted Gold Medal. Quail Summit, Vejar, Castle Rock, and Evergreen brought home Silver medals. Elementary teams do not compete at the state level.

Most students worked in teams of two to prepare for the 23 events in the categories of Biology, Chemistry, Earth and Space Science, Physics, Technology, Engineering, and Inquiry.

Only 15 members were allowed to compete per school, therefore most students prepared for three or more events.  Some teams focused on anatomy, meteorology, fossils, the solar system and entomology. Some teams designed and built elastic launch gliders, bottle rockets, air trajectory devices, robots, bridges and wheeled vehicles.  There were events that required hands-on lab skills, such as “Bio-Process Lab,” “Can’t Judge a Powder,” “Crime Busters,” and “Experimental Design.

For the engineering events, students made machines that flew in the air, shot balls, dropped weights from a height, and performed energy transfers.

Competitors built a tiny bridge strong enough to support a huge weight of sand, and a vehicle that drove an egg as close to a wall as possible without breaking the egg.

“They did a fantastic job and are ready to take on their next big hurdle, the State Championship!  We are truly proud of what they have accomplished and the amount of time and hard work they put forth for their events,” said South Pointe science teacher and advisor, Crystal Dira.

Science Olympiad teams are championed by families who devote their time and resources in support of students.

“I think the kids did a fantastic job.  They learned while having fun.  It was great!” said Quail Summit parent, Suzanne Zhang.

“I am so proud of this group of talented young scientists who were willing to take risks and pursue advanced studies. They will be competing for their personal best at the upcoming state competition,” Warren added.

WHO Will Care For Your Eyes?

Staff Reports

Walnut – For many years, Walnut Hills Optometry (WHO) has taken great care of the vision needs of its community, serving patients from Walnut and Diamond Bar, to Chino Hills and Rowland heights.  Because of the quality of service provided, as well as the trusting care given by the doctor, patients travel from the Los Angeles and Inland Empire areas as well.

WHO considers vision to be a precious gift, and their office takes pride in providing thorough eye exams.  They believe that quality eye care involves consistent care by a professional.  Carmela Larino, O.D. and her loyal staff will give your eyes the personalized care and attention they deserve.

Dr. Larino is proud to serve the community she grew up in.  She attended Rowland Unified schools from elementary through high school, and then attended UC Irvine before receiving her doctorate degree from the Southern California College of Optometry.  In 2002 to 2004, Dr. Larino was honored at her alma mater – Nogales High School – by being inducted onto their Wall of Fame.  She is a member of the American Optometric Association, California Optometric Association, and the Rio Hondo Optometric Society, where she stays current on the latest in eye care.  As a local resident, you might find Dr. Larino eating at your favorite restaurant, shopping in a local store, or attending a community event.

Walnut Hills Optometry offers personalized eye examinations, diabetic and eye health exams, and the management and care of a multitude of eye and vision concerns.  A wide variety of eyewear is also available, from progressive and polarized lenses, to silicone high-oxygen contacts, even designer frames.  Lasik Surgery co-management is also available through WHO.

WHO is conveniently located near the 10, 60 and 57 freeways, on the border of Walnut and West Covina, at 18736 East Amar Road (at the corner of Nogales Street and Amar Road, next to Papa John’s Pizza).  Their hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  You can reach them at (626) 965-3878 or (909) 594-1153.  For more information visit their website at www.walnuthillsoptometry.com.

WHO looks forward to seeing you and your family soon!

Chino Hills Fraud Arrest

Chino Hills Deputies arrest a Fontana man for manufacturing false credit cards

Staff Reports

On Thurs., Mar. 13, Deputies from the Chino Hills Police Station arrested Jamell Roy Howard, 25, of Fontana, on charges stemming from an extensive investigation regarding credit card fraud.  Howard was booked on suspicion of manufacturing false credit cards containing the personal information of more than 30 victims throughout Southern California.

Howard was originally contacted on Feb. 20, after Deputies responded to a report of a subject – later identified as Howard – who had made fraudulent purchases totaling several thousand dollars at the Walgreens at 3320 Chino Hills Parkway. Howard was found to have approximately 60 Visa, American Express, Mastercard and Walmart prepaid gift cards in his possession. Deputies seized the cards for evidence, and released Howard pending the outcome of the investigation.

Deputies discovered the cards had been encoded with the account numbers of the victims. On their face, the cards appeared to be an average gift card; however, the magnetic strip on the back of the card contained the credit card numbers of various victims. Deputies contacted several banking institutions and eventually located more than 30 victims.

After completing the investigation deputies located and arrested Howard near his home in Fontana. He was arrested and booked at West Valley Detention Center.

Local Hotel Wins Prestigious Award

Comfort Suites Hotel in La Puente receives the 2015 Gold Hospitality Award from Choice Hotels International

UntitledStaff Reports

La Puente – The Comfort Suites hotel in La Puente was recently announced as the recipient of the prestigious 2015 Gold Hospitality Award from one of the world’s leading hotel companies, Choice Hotels International, Inc., franchisor of the Comfort Suites brand.

“The Comfort Suites hotel’s commitment to excellence and outstanding guest service has earned it this well-deserved recognition as one of the best hotels among the brand,” said Stephen P. Joyce, President and Chief Executive Officer for Choice Hotels International.  “We here at Choice Hotels are very proud to award this distinguished honor to the Comfort Suites La Puente hotel.”

Gold Award status represents a tremendous accomplishment for a hotel and its entire staff.  Each year, only the very top hotels in each brand are eligible to receive this elite distinction.  As a top performing property among the company’s more than 5,200 U.S. franchised hotels, Comfort Suites La Puente is among the top percentage of properties within the Comfort Suites brand.  As one of the company’s top franchised hotels operating under the Comfort Suites flag, the hotel has demonstrated an exceptional focus on guest satisfaction and dedication to providing superior service.  Additional award criteria are evaluated by Choice Hotels through its official property ranking reports.

Comfort Suites hotel in La Puente is located at 753 Glendora Avenue.  They can be reached at (626) 330-0030, or visit www.industryhillshotel.com.

Garey, Pomona HS Pilot iPad Program

Students in writing support courses test unique home-to-school model

(Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes) Writing proficiency students use their digital devices as part of a home-to-school 1:1 iPad Program designed to allow for instructional use outside of the traditional classroom setting.

(Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)
Writing proficiency students use their digital devices as part of a home-to-school 1:1 iPad Program designed to allow for instructional use outside of the traditional classroom setting.

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – A group of students at Garey and Pomona high schools is testing a unique home-to-school, 1:1 iPad Program designed to allow students to take the school-supplied instructional tools home, ensuring that learning continues beyond the traditional classroom setting.

The two schools are the first comprehensive secondary schools in the Pomona Unified School District to launch such a program.

“Increasing access to technology and seamlessly integrating it into curriculum is essential to our students becoming successful 21st century learners,” said PUSD Board of Education President, Andrew Wong. “The ability to use 1:1 devices also gives them access to learning and technology anywhere, anytime, a key component to achieving digital literacy.”

The District purchased approximately 120 iPads for students and teachers in two writing proficiency courses at each site to use in class, where the curriculum is almost completely digital-based. The course provides the mostly freshmen students extra support in developing reading and writing skills.

“We were very deliberate in choosing this class because we wanted to see if it would impact student learning, academic achievement and student engagement, and it already has to a great degree,” said English Language Arts teacher specialist, Danielle Donaldson-Lovette, who said there has been an increase in student engagement, attendance and grades.

Many District schools use iPads to enhance student learning, including La Verne Science and Technology Charter School; Pantera Elementary, which has a 6th Grade 1:1 iPad Program; and Diamond Ranch High School, which uses iPads to support long-term English learners.

PUSD plans to continue expanding digital devices and wireless access to cultivate blended learning environments, which will provide for more student-centered, personalized learning.

“Our robust technology programs are empowering students to maximize their full potential and better prepare for the future,” said PUSD Superintendent, Richard Martinez. “This is yet another example of our efforts to bring technology and innovation into the classroom, putting digital devices into the hands of young learners and developing unique programs to benefit all PUSD students.”

Being Present

By Nancy Stoops

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

It’s a very exciting time to be alive.  I love the fact that so very many of us are going back to yoga and meditation, and looking within for our own answers.

There seems to be this search for peacefulness and contentment.  There are whole new sections in the bookstores devoted to self-help.  Many of these books teach meditation and act as guides for teaching the whole concept of being mindful or present.

Let me start by explaining the whole concept.  If we think about somebody truly being present, they are what we refer to as, “being in the moment.”

There is nothing else going on in your mind and you are totally focused on what you are doing and saying.  You’re not thinking about what you need to do next or where you need to be; you just exist in that moment.  Think about the last time you were able to do this, or if you really ever have.

Meditation helps us totally clear our minds, and helps us be mindful.  If we can learn to keep our minds uncluttered, we will become much more effective human beings.  We will feel every aspect of our lives and begin to appreciate even the simplest things.

I recently attended a conference on mindfulness, and was told how much research is being done around the subject of meditation. It is being used to help people deal with pain, lower blood pressure, help with prevention for heart attacks and many other stress-related illnesses, give hope and strength to the terminally ill, and many other ways as well.

If you could find something that would improve the quality of your life and didn’t cost you a dime, wouldn’t it be foolish not to at least try it?

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. Nancy is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members. She 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 Nancy at (909) 229-0727; or you may e-mail her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books, Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

L.A. Police Officer Wanted In Homicide Case

Image Courtesy: Pomona PD

Image Courtesy: Pomona PD

Staff Reports

Pomona – An arrest warrant has been issued for Probationary LAPD Officer, Henry Solis, charging him with murder.

On Mar. 13 at approximately 3:30 a.m., the Pomona Police Department received multiple 911 calls reporting gun shots in the area of Third and Main streets.  Officers responding to the area found a male victim, 23, of Ontario, suffering from gunshot wounds to the lower torso.  He was transported by ambulance to USC Medical Center, where he succumbed to his injuries.

The victim has been identified as Salome Rodriguez, Jr., 23, of Ontario.

An investigation was launched by Pomona’s Homicide Investigators.  Initial findings indicated the victim and suspect were engaged in a physical altercation prior to the shooting, with the suspect fleeing the scene in an unidentified vehicle.  The vehicle was subsequently located a short distance from the crime.

The suspect, Solis, is an Officer with the Los Angeles Police Department, and was off-duty at the time the incident occurred.  He has failed to report to work since the murder took place, and is currently at large.  He is considered armed and dangerous, and is described as Hispanic, 27 years of age, 5’9” tall, and approximately 185 pounds.  His last known address is in Pomona.  Solis may be driving a brown/tan 1992 Ford Pick-Up, California license 4J79703.

The Los Angeles Police Department is working with the Pomona Police Department in an active search for Solis.  It is a felony for any person to harbor, conceal or aid a fugitive in an effort to avoid or escape arrest.  Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to call the Pomona Police Department’s Detective Bureau at (909) 620-2085. For anyone willing to provide information who wishes to remain anonymous, contact “Crime Stoppers” at (800) 222-8477, or “We-Tip” at (800) 782-7463.

OC Toddler Dies In Vehicle Vs. Pedestrian

Staff Reports

Costa Mesa – On Mar. 14 at approximately 9:55 p.m., Police Officers responded to a report of a small child being struck by a vehicle in the area of 900 S. Newhope Street.  A male toddler was located lying in the roadway at the intersection of Newhope and Flight streets.

The child was reportedly struck by a white Toyota Camry traveling north on Newhope Street, outside of any adjacent crosswalk.  The driver of the vehicle stopped and remained at the scene, and was cooperative throughout the investigation.  Intoxication and speed do not appear to be factors in the collision, and the driver stated he did not see the toddler on the roadway.

According to the Santa Ana Police Department, the toddler managed to wander from his residence located one block away from said intersection, where he entered the roadway and was struck by the vehicle.

The Orange County Fire Authority was on scene and transported the child to an area hospital where he later succumbed to his injuries.  He has been identified as Jesus Alvarez, 1, of Costa Mesa.

This incident remains under investigation and any person who may have witnessed the collision is asked to call Investigator Hadley at (714) 245-8216.

Did You Know?

By K.P. Sander

Punxsutawney Phil (and his recent prediction of six more weeks of winter) has nothing on astronomical events – such as when the sun is at its zenith over the Equator – and all things celestial.

On Fri., Mar. 20, the Vernal Equinox will take place, so get out your white shoes because spring will officially have sprung.

According to Wikipedia, an “equinox” happens twice each year:  at some point near March 20, and again around September 22.  Generally speaking, an equinox is when the length of day and night is of approximately equal duration.  Quite literally, “equinox” is a Latin derivative meaning, “equal night.”  At these specific times, as the Earth resolves around the Sun, the Sun is exactly above the equator.

In spring, the Northern Hemisphere begins to tilt toward the sun, resulting in warmer, sunnier days.  As the warmth begins to dissipate the frost and cooler temperatures, the Earth begins to bring forth new signs of life with trees becoming verdant, and plant life beginning to germinate.  Ancient cultures knew that their food supplies would soon be returning and there was great cause for celebration.

Legendarily speaking, there are supposed mystical properties of the vernal equinox that make it possible to balance an egg on its end. Scientifically speaking, this is a bunch of hooey (you can make it happen on any day of the year, if you are determined enough), but how many of you will try this out of curiosity?

On the other hand, and something much more truthful, you can amaze your friends by plotting out the Easter calendar from this point forward, because in Christianity, Easter always falls on the first Sunday after the first full moon after the vernal equinox.

Despite the fascination with hemispherical science, the coming of spring changes the perspective of all life forms.  In the words of Alfred Lord Tennyson, “In the spring, a young man’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love.”

Indeed.  Happy Vernal Equinox!

 

Just In Case

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

Once a year I try to sit down and type a letter that provides my wife and children with information and instructions about our family’s finances and other important matters.

I call it the “Just in Case” letter, because it is written just in case I don’t make it home from a business trip or a day at the office.

None of us like to think about the possibility that we might die suddenly in a car accident or due to a heart attack.  All of us think that we will return home safely and live another day.

I just want to make sure that my wife and family know where to find important records and documents in case I’m not there to help them.

Recently I found one of my “Just in Case” letters in the back of a drawer in my office desk.  It was written in 1997.  It was interesting to read some of the things that I included in the letter that was almost 20 years old.  Some of the information on our family’s finances was interesting, like how much we had in savings and how much we owed on our house at that time.

It was interesting to read the instructions I gave them about finishing school and caring for one another.  Now, they are all out of school and gainfully employed.  None of our kids were married in 1997.  Today three of them are married and several have kids of their own.

Many other things in the letter were outdated.  Our bank accounts had changed and my life insurance, too.  Thankfully, I had updated most of the information in “Just in Case” letters that I have written more recently.

There is a story in the Bible, in 1 Kings 20, where the prophet Isaiah tells King Hezekiah that the he is about to die.  Isaiah tells the King to “set your house in order.”

Do you have your “house in order?”  Do you have a will or living trust?  Do you have instructions written down to help your family in case you die suddenly? Let me encourage you to stop and write a letter to your family and loved ones, “Just In Case.”

Easter Sunday Services: 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m.

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

Newcomers Celebrates 50th Anniversary

(Photo Courtesy: SGV Newcomers) Past Presidents from five decades and current President, Elena Paules (second from left, front row).

(Photo Courtesy: SGV Newcomers)
Past Presidents from five decades and current President, Elena Paules (second from left, front row).

Staff Reports

SGV – On Mar. 11, the Newcomers and Friends of San Gabriel Valley celebrated their 50th anniversary with a Champagne Brunch at Claim Jumper restaurant in Monrovia.

For 50 years, the club has been bringing together women from all over SGV for friendship, fun, and philanthropy.

More than 50 past and present members attended, including Lucy Freeman, who joined in 1977, and Sharon Townsend, who traveled the farthest from Danville, which is in the San Francisco area. Ten past presidents of the club attended and were honored by current President, Elena Paules.

The group was entertained by five members, who spoke on each of the club’s five decades – regaling with history of the club, top news stories, inventions, music, TV, and movies. Before email, the club kept their members in touch with events and activities via a phone tree. Past events brought back happy memories (and some laughter) for many club members.

Membership was mainly stay-at-home moms in the beginning, and membership dropped when they had to go to work during the recession.  In 1984, they started the year with 31 members, and ended it with 163.  Presently, there are over 130 members (mostly retired women, as most of the activities happen during the day).

Club activities have changed over the years. In 1975, some of the activities were bingo, bowling, tennis, crafts, exercise, card games, a mothers-of-young-children group, and golf (which is their longest running activity with members continuing to golf weekly).

Today, Newcomers has a monthly coffee meeting for all members. A monthly email newsletter is also sent out detailing club events and activities, including a book club, bridge, crafts, games, garden gals, golf, lunch bunch, Maj Jong, movie goers, Pinochle, Scrabble, a wine tasting club, tours, and travel. Most events take place monthly. A Ladies-on-the-Go group plans monthly outings chosen by members. There are five or six luncheons held by the club yearly, including programs with entertainment or enlightenment.  Six tours are scheduled yearly, and have previously included Mount Wilson Observatory, Graber Olive House in Ontario, San Antonio Winery, Porto’s Bakery in Glendale, and the Nixon Library; a tour of the Norton Simon Museum is coming this April 2015.

Members can attend as little or as much as they choose, and there is something for everyone! Membership dues are $25 yearly, and new members are always welcome!

For more information about SGV Newcomers and Friends, visit online at www.sgvnewcomers.com or contact them at sgvnewcomers@yahoo.com.

 

Finding New Purpose Above The Tavern

By Michael Armijo

Once again, I am above the tavern attending grief counseling, and I hold such a heavy heart.

I walked in unbroken and in good spirits, but as my therapist and I talked openly and honestly, I came to a realization: This is the way I used to talk with my close friends who have passed away. I guess I was in therapy each time I spoke to them, and I began to understand that a good friend really is the best therapist.

During our discussion, I recognized that life has many layers; and in our family, we have a layer of self-destruction. For me, this layer has been buried under my friends, my job, my son, and my daughter.

My son and daughter are now married, my business runs well, and my friends have died…and the layer of self-destruction is exposed.

My therapist said what I need to do now is find new meaning and purpose in my life.  Otherwise, my connections end up with empty feelings that I try and fill with the wrong substances.

Another interesting realization is that my self destruction is, for the most part, about people.  I have a tendency to seek some who are unhealthy for me. I have to be careful about my choices.

I left my session above the tavern with new intention.  I need to find a purpose in life that has special meaning for me that will perhaps eliminate that self-destructive layer.

I will continue to seek, and eventually I will find.  Amen to that!