Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News

Don’t Let Life Pass You By

By Nancy Stoops

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

When we are young, we can’t wait to turn 18.  When we are 18, we can’t wait until we are 21.

Now that we are adults, we can’t wait to graduate college and get married.  Now that we are married, we can’t wait to have a family and buy a house.

We now have it all:  the family, the big job, and the big house.  Now we can’t wait until we retire.

Why is that we have such a hard time just living in the present?  It’s as if we are literally wishing our lives away.

People seem to believe the future holds the happiness that the present just doesn’t.  I always hear people say things will be different when I get past “that”.  So time moves along and they do indeed get past “that”, and from out of nowhere something else comes along.  Now they are thinking things will be so much better when they get past “this”. And so it is that this just keeps reoccurring.

Do you see a pattern here?  It’s called life, and it seems as if it is always giving us something that we must get through.

Life is not a neat little package; it involves a lot of hard work and challenges.  Even so, there are times that we don’t get what we think we really deserve.  Maybe these are the times to look at what we did end up with and realize it is even better.

We spend so much time looking at what we don’t have and feeling sorry for ourselves.  Life has a way of giving us what we need, if we just pay attention.  Things seem to work out if we are patient and willing to accept life’s challenges and live each day to the fullest.

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.

Bank Robbery Prompts Fatal Shooting

Staff Reports

Corona bank robbery chase ends in Chino. (Photo Courtesy: Casper News)

Corona bank robbery chase ends in Chino. (Photo Courtesy: Casper News)

Chino – On Wed., Feb. 4, at approximately 4:07 p.m., the Corona Police Department responded to Pacific Premier Bank, located at 102 E. Sixth St. in Corona, in reference to a take-over robbery.

As the robbery suspect exited the bank, it was reported he may have car-jacked a vehicle. Officers located the suspect vehicle and a pursuit ensued out of Corona and into the City of Chino.

Reports say the suspect vehicle careened off the 71 Expressway, crashed through barricades and slammed into a light pole at the intersection of Euclid Ave. and Pine St.  An officer involved shooting took place at the scene with a white male adult.

According to the Corona Police Department, the suspect was struck by gunfire and was pronounced deceased at the scene.  The identity of the suspect has not yet been released.

No officers were injured during the incident and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Office, Specialized Investigations Unit, is handling the shooting investigation.

There were no reported injuries from anyone inside the bank where the robbery took place.  The amount of money taken from the bank is not known at this time.

This investigation is on-going and anyone with additional information is urged to call the Corona Police Department at (951) 736-2330 (select Option 3), or San Bernardino Sheriff Investigator, Gary Hart at (760) 559-3431.

Mission Viejo Man Strangles Wife

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – On Thurs., Feb. 5, an Orange County husband was arraigned on charges of strangling and murdering his wife in their Mission Viejo home.

Gary Lee Parsons, 74, is charged with one felony count of murder. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 25 years to life in state prison. The defendant is being held on $1 million bail in Santa Ana’s Central Jail.

In the early hours of Feb. 3, Parsons is accused of engaging in an argument with his wife, Barbara Parsons, 73, inside their home. The argument escalated to a physical altercation and the defendant is accused of throwing the victim onto their bed and strangling her until she was unresponsive. He is also accused of tucking the victim into the bed and leaving the home in his car.

Parsons reportedly then called a family member, who, in turn, called the Orange County Sheriff’s Department (OCSD) to report the crime.

At approximately 12:30 p.m. on Feb. 3, OCSD received a call from the defendant, and deputies arrived at the Mission Viejo home shortly thereafter. The defendant returned home and parked in the driveway.  After entering the home and finding Barbara Parsons deceased in her bed, OSCD deputies arrested the defendant.

Did You Know?

By K.P. Sander

A Boy Scout in 1969 (Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)

A Boy Scout in 1969 (Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)

On Sun., Feb. 8, the Boy Scouts of America (BSA) will celebrate their 105th anniversary as one of the largest youth organizations in the United States.

With membership nearing 2.7 million youth and more than one million adult volunteers, the BSA was previously ranked the twelfth-largest non-profit group in the country, with total revenues of $665.9 million.

According to Wikipedia, the goals driving the BSA revolve around training youth to be responsible citizens, of good character, who are self-reliant. These young men – aged anywhere from 7 to 21 – participate in diverse educational programs, outdoor activities, and much more.

Headquartered in Irving, Texas, the BSA has more than 105,000 units throughout the U.S.  You probably know some cub or boy scouts in your own city. The units are led by volunteers that are appointed by the BSA chartering organization, or local organizations such as churches, clubs, civic associations and educational programs implementing the scouting program within communities.

While the BSA’s influence has been both lauded and criticized for unfair practices – at times resulting in litigation – their objectives (known as “Aims of Scouting”) are touted as pure:  moral character development; citizenship training; and the development of physical, mental, and emotional fitness.  These Aims are defined through informal education and activities at regular meetings and members are identified within their own dens, packs and communities under the mentorship of adult leaders.

“Scouting” is characterized through specific codes, and perhaps at some point in your life you have held up three fingers and promised, “Scout’s Honor.”

Scout Oath:  “On my honor, I will do my best, to do my duty, to God and my country, and to obey the Scout Law, to help other people at all times, to keep myself physically strong, mentally awake, and morally straight.”

Scout Law:  “A scout is trustworthy, loyal, helpful, friendly, courteous, kind, obedient, cheerful, thrifty, brave, clean, and reverent.”

Outdoor Code:  “As an American, I will do my best to be clean in my outdoor manner, to be careful with fire, to be considerate in the outdoors, and to be conservation minded.”

Water Damage

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

We have lived in our home in Diamond Bar for over 25 years.  About ten years ago, we had a slab leak under the floor of our kitchen.

We hired a company to find out where the water line was leaking.  Their technician had some pretty impressive equipment that was able to locate it quickly.  Instead of tearing up the floor, I was able to re-route a new water line from the hot water heater up through the attic and down inside a wall.

Recently, we had two neighbors who had slab leaks under their floor. The leaks occurred within a month of each other.  The houses were on the same street with the same floor plan and the leaks were in the exact same location in each house – in the family room near the kitchen.

I was not here when our homes were built in the early 1980s.  I know it was common at that time to run the water lines under the concrete slab.  The kitchen, bath rooms, and laundry water supplies were stubbed up through the floor in different parts of the house.

I don’t know what the quality of the copper was at that time.  Maybe the home builder used an inferior or cheaper copper pipe.  Maybe the copper water pipe just deteriorated over time.  But I think it is reasonable to expect vital materials, like the water lines, should last longer.

Another factor could be the frequent movement of our ground due to earthquakes.  We have had a couple of good ones over the past few years.  There was a very strong jolt last spring in Diamond Bar.  Could it be that the shifting of the soil put stress on the pipes causing a leak?

We all know that water is a vital resource.  We need water to live.  We need water to drink, wash and bathe.  We need water for our lawns and shrubs.  We need water to flush the toilets and wash our clothes.  Water is pretty important.

It is interesting that water can be both helpful and harmful.  Water can help us cook and clean, but it can also ruin the carpet or cause someone to drown.  When water is under control, it is useful.  When it is out of control it can be harmful and even fatal.

Let me encourage you to give thanks for the water we enjoy. Be wise in how you use it and careful not to waste it.   Be grateful for all the people who supply it to our homes and communities.  And, keep your eye out for a slab leak if you own a home in Diamond Bar!

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.

Pomona-Coffee With A Cop

Staff Reports

Join Police Chief, Paul Capraro, along with officers from the Pomona Police Department, for “COFFEE WITH A COP” on Feb. 11, from 8 to 10 a.m. The event will be held at Jack in the Box, located at 2098 S. Garey in Pomona. Coffee With A Cop provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the department’s work in Pomona neighborhoods. A free small cup of coffee will be offered to those who participate in the event.

Youth Sports Parents, Know Your Role

Coach-Mike-Green-Graphic-WEB

By Mike Green

To determine your role as a sports parent, you first have to ask yourself, what do you want your child to take from their sports experience? Some parents want their child to be active, some want them to learn social skills, some want them to learn how to compete and some want them to achieve something more.

There are many reasons as to why we put our kids in sports. Most parents would chose the reasons stated above, but then they put pressure on their kid to always win, or be one of the best on the team. This pressure often has a negative impact on the experience for your child, and eventually drives them away from the game.

Your role as a youth sports parent is strictly to support your child. Not to coach them, not to criticize the coach, not to criticize the officials. Unless you are putting in the extra hours to be the coach, your role is simply to support your child and the coach. Be sure to tell them how much you liked watching them play, regardless if they won or lost.

If you remember that youth sports are for your child, not you, they will have a great experience and get the most benefit from the sport.

Mike Green is a coach for The Sports Family Club, a website dedicated to enriching the lives of children through sports and activities. For more information on The Sports Family Club visit http://thesportsfamilyclub.org/home

Above The Tavern

By Michael Armijo

Over the last year, I have experienced more than my share of grief, and it has taken its toll.  In an effort to help alleviate some of the sadness, I have been attending grief therapy.  The office I visit for my sessions is above a tavern, just like something out of a novel.

In a recent session, I came away a bit relieved that I was able to find some answers to questions that have delayed some successes in my life.  I found out that I continue to “stuff” feelings of abandonment and fear down inside myself; and just like the silly joke can of snakes from childhood, you never really know how many turns of the lid it will take until the snakes explode in your face.  You can stuff things down for just so long.

I have learned that I need to face my emotions by allowing others into my life, and not fear relationships that tug on my feelings.  By learning to open up and trust those that I give the many pieces of my heart to, I will eventually realize that I can be okay.  Heartbreaks can heal.

That’s the thing about death; its permanence is formidable.  I need to understand that not all of life’s treasures will last forever.  Sometimes, the things you hold dear will come to an end.  But I am learning to reframe my expectations.

Like a beautiful work of art – a masterpiece – that you have the opportunity to see, you don’t mourn its loss after you see it.  You celebrate the fact that you were able to be in the presence of greatness with fond memories.  True, too, of special relationships that are no longer present.  I will treat them like artwork, enjoy their beauty and bask in their emotional light.  But I will try to remember that they may fade away like the memory of that beautiful work of art, and when I do think of them, it will be with love and fondness for what they brought to my life.

My sessions above the tavern are a work in progress.  The current task set before me is to enjoy the here and now of relationships; to enjoy their beauty and the meaning they add to my life today – without worrying about their existence tomorrow.  As the Bible says, tomorrow will take care of itself.

WV Board Honors Outstanding Students

By Kelli Gile

Quail Summit Elementary 1st Grader, Jayden Shinjo, was recognized as a Super Star Student during the Jan. Board Meeting (shown with Board President Larry Redinger). (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Quail Summit Elementary 1st Grader, Jayden Shinjo, was recognized as a Super Star Student during the Jan. Board Meeting (shown with Board President Larry Redinger). (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees honored C.J. Morris, Quail Summit star students and community partners during the Jan. 21 meeting. A 5th Grader from Westhoff Elementary was also recognized as the 2014 Holiday Card Contest winner.

C.J. Morris Elementary student, Brandon Rubalcaba, was honored as a Super Star Student. The 4th Grader was lauded as for his kind and caring attitude.

“Brandon is an excellent example of a C.J. Morris student who shows I.B. attitudes and Matador spirit. He comes to school each day with a positive and very happy attitude despite many learning challenges,” said teacher Carol Mead.

Brandon makes friends with everyone in class. He is often the first person to come over to someone who needs help or just someone to talk to.

“Brandon is always polite and says thank you – even when I give him a test!” Mead quipped.

C.J. Morris Elementary parent, Molly Mendoza, received the Partner in Education award.

“Mrs. Mendoza deeply cares about our kids,” said Principal Donna Hunter.  “She does an awesome job; we truly appreciate her at C.J. Morris!”

For over five years, Mendoza has served the school and community. She is highly involved in the Community Club, often helps out in classrooms, and is the current school site president. Last year, she chaired the ice cream social – one of the school’s biggest events. In December, she headed up the school’s holiday shop.

Quail Summit Elementary 1st Grader, Jayden Shinjo, was recognized as a Super Star Student.  This year, she is being home-schooled due to health reasons.

“Jayden is part of the school and we miss her very much. All the teachers at our school are so inspired by her can-do attitude and perseverance,” Principal Jeanette Koh said.  “You are awesome and amazing, inside and out!”

Quail Summit teacher, Lori Aicard, who provides the independent study describes Shinjo as intelligent, brave, optimistic, a quick learner, and having shining character. She has made a powerful impression on her teacher.

“Jayden loves learning, works hard, and is joyful about everything. And this little girl always has a smile and a giggle,” Aicard said.

Quail Summit Elementary selected Marlene Cantrell and Chris Cantrell of Cantrell Photography as recipients of the Partner in Education Award. Cantrell Photography has been the school photographer for over 25 years.

“We want to recognize them because they exemplify what it means to give back to the community,” Koh said.  “We are so thankful for our partnership with Cantrell Photography and look forward to many more years!”

Westhoff Elementary 5th Grader, Stephanie Yeh, won the 2014 Holiday Greeting Card Art Contest. The Board of Trustees recognized the talented young artist with a certificate and framed copy of her original artwork. She also received a gift certificate to Chick-fil-A restaurant, courtesy of owners Bob and Michelle Sun.

Freemont Femineers Explore Careers

A group of Fremont Academy students, called the Femineers, learn how to build wearable technology from Cal Poly engineering professors and female engineering students. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

A group of Fremont Academy students, called the Femineers, learn how to build wearable technology from Cal Poly engineering professors and female engineering students. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – A group of female students at the Fremont Academy of Engineering and Design are breaking through barriers and embracing career paths in science, technology, engineering and math – helping to lead the next generation of women into STEM careers.

Known as the Fremont Femineers, the group consists of 24 girls in Grades 10 and 11 – the top students in their class – who engage in hands-on STEM activities, including robotics and wearable technology.

“I’ve heard many times that STEM is not for girls, but they’re wrong,” said Elena Guzman, an 11th Grader and President of the Femineers. “These girls are smart and do amazing projects, and we were chosen because we’re full of potential. I think we’re a great group of girls who are going to do great things.”

The Fremont Academy of Engineering and Design is a Grade 7 to 12 Project Lead The Way (PLTW) school, composed of an equal number of boys and girls, all of whom take engineering classes.

The Femineers was created in 2013 in partnership with Cal Poly Pomona’s College of Engineering and is guided by the belief that girls will thrive in STEM careers if they are given the opportunity. The College, which has an 18 percent female enrollment, supplies the funding and academic support to sustain the three-year program.

The program provides students with project-based learning, female engineering student mentors and college counseling while building a sustainable community of current and future STEM leaders. They are now the subject of a PLTW documentary.

“The Femineers are treading ground in what has historically been a male-dominated industry,” said Fremont engineering and computer science teacher, Scott Lukesh, who runs the program and was recently recognized by PLTW for his commitment to being a master teacher. “It’s a field that we can change. It’s a difficult thing to do, but there’s no stopping this revolution, and I believe the Femineers can make a real impact at Fremont, Cal Poly and beyond.”

This month, Cal Poly Pomona engineering professors and female engineering students are bringing their expertise to lead the Femineers in building wearable technology. This new industry incorporates computer and advanced electronic technologies into clothing and accessories with the vision of weaving technology into everyday life. Last year, Cal Poly and the Femineers built creative robots.

A Femineer Excursion to Lake Arrowhead is planned for Jan. 28 to 30 to complete wearable technology projects and build a strong community amongst themselves.

“I want these girls to be empowered to know that they can do anything they set their minds to,” said Lukesh, a 25-year educator. “We need to have projects like this to show girls and their families that they’re good at it. The world needs them.”

“The Femineers program has the amazing capability of changing the dynamic of the STEM field,” said PUSD Superintendent, Richard Martinez. “It’s a unique pathway that provides innumerable opportunities for these accomplished young women, who are already trailblazers in the STEM world, to learn the concepts, develop the skills and build the confidence to be successful after high school.”

For more information on the Femineers, visit www.facebook.com/fremontfemineers.

Boy Band Returns Home To Perform

By Gina K. Ward

The Filharmonic, with Oswalt alumnus, Niko Del Rey (top row, 2nd from left) (Photo Courtesy: Gina K. Ward)

The Filharmonic, with Oswalt alumnus, Niko Del Rey (top row, 2nd from left) (Photo Courtesy: Gina K. Ward)

Walnut – Students are buzzing that the a cappella group, “The Filharmonic” – from NBC’s hit musical competition, The Sing-Off, and featured in the new movie, Pitch Perfect  – performed on Wed., Jan. 28 at the Oswalt Academy in Walnut.

Beat boxer, Niko Del Rey, is an alumnus of Oswalt Academy and he was excited to return to perform for the 6th through 8th Grade students.

The Filipino-American band have had much to sing about after sharing the stage with musical groups Linkin Park, the Black Eyed Peas and Penatonix from The Sing Off national tour, and their upcoming movie.

The Filharmonic band is known for their melodic vocal style that exemplifies an urbanesque Hip Hop sound, with 90’s nostalgia. The six members are passionate about their Filipino culture and love of music, and have combined musical talents coming from the world of pop, jazz, a cappella, opera and theater.

To catch recent videos and learn more about the band, visit www.thefilharmonic.com, or follow them on Twitter @thefilharmonic.

The Stanley G. Oswalt Academy is part of the Rowland Unified School District and is an International Baccalaureate® (IB) World School and National Apple Distinguished School for its ‘Laptop for Learning’ program. Oswalt Academy is for students TK through 8th Grade, and is located at 19501 Shadow Oak Drive in Walnut.  For more information, visit www.oswaltacademy.org  or contact Principal Kevin Despard at (626) 810-4109.

Community Events

Staff Reports

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Fit Food Fundamentals

When:  Beginning weekly, Thursdays now through Feb. 12.  The last session will occur on Fri., Feb. 20, and the teens will serve a healthy meal to seniors during a dinner and a movie, 6 to 8:30 p.m.

Where:  Walnut Senior Center, 21215 La Puente Road, Walnut

Details:  Teens, ages 12 to 16, will learn basic knowledge of nutrition, safety, and food preparation skills to incorporate a healthy diet into their everyday routine.  Teens can gain insight on how to lead a healthy lifestyle by means of fitness and proper nutrition, which can be a foundation for lifelong well-being.  $35 for five weeks (includes all materials).

Contact:  (909) 598-6200.

Baldwin Park Pro Wrestling

When:  Sat., Jan. 31, at 6 p.m. (doors open at 5 p.m.)

Where:  Ester Snyder Community Center, 4100 Baldwin Park Blvd., Gymnasium

Details:  A Wrestling Extravaganza in conjunction with the Empire Wrestling Federation, the show will feature six matches, “Lucha Libre” pro-style wrestling, and much more for the entire family.

Contact:  (626) 813-5245, ext. 317, or visit http://www.baldwinpark.com

Citizens’ Police Academy

When:  Wednesdays, 6:30 to 9 p.m., Feb. 4 to March 25

Where:  Pomona Police Department, 490 W. Mission Blvd; Pomona City Hall, 505 S. Garey Avenue.

Details:  The Pomona Police Department is offering an eight week program that provides citizens with the opportunity to learn about the inner workings of the Police Department.  Space is limited to 40 approved applicants.  Beginning Jan. 5, applications can be obtained at the front desk of the Pomona Police Department or at the Crime Prevention Office at City Hall.

Contact:  Crime Prevention, (909) 620-2318.

Roaring 20s Casino Night

When: Fri., Feb. 6, 6:30 to 11 p.m.

Where:  Diamond Bar Golf Course, 22751 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar

Details:  The Diamond Bar Woman’s Club presents a night of fun, food and gaming.  Just $50 per person, which included dinner, $50 in chips, a drink ticket and a commemorative photo.  All proceeds benefit the Diamond Bar Woman’s Club Charities.

Contact:  For tickets and information, call Debbie Avila-Mott at (909) 860-1063.

Bosco Tech Math Competition

When:  Sat., Feb. 7; 7:45 a.m.

Where:  Don Bosco Technical Institute, 1151 San Gabriel Boulevard, Rosemead

Details:  Mathematics competition for 5th through 8th Grade students.  The 43rd annual event will offer awards for the highest scoring individuals and teams.  Students from all San Gabriel Valley public and private schools are invited to participate.  $8/individual; $5/teams per person.  Food, fun, awards ceremony.

Contact:  Ms. Valeria De Luna at MathCompetition@boscotech.edu. For further information about Bosco Tech, call (626) 940-2000 or visit www.boscotech.edu.

4th Annual Yurak Memorial 5K Run

When:  Sat., Feb. 14

Where:  Santa Fe Dam Recreation Area, 15501 East Arrow Highway, Irwindale

Details:  Don Bosco Technical Institute will host the Memorial 5K Run and kids-only 1K Fun Run.  All proceeds will benefit Bosco Tech’s Yurak Athletic Center.  Race registration is $35; online registration is available at www.boscotech.edu/events.

Contact:  Athletic Director, Chris Shockley, (626) 940-2101, or via email at lshockley@boscotech.edu

Pomona Inner City Homeless Ministry Dinner

When:  The 4th Saturday monthly:  Feb., 28, Mar. 28

Where:  First Baptist Church of Pomona, 601 N. Garey Ave., Pomona

Details:  Come help serve the homeless and economically disadvantaged at monthly dinners.  Volunteers meet in E202 (2nd Floor) at 12 noon for prayer/devotion, followed by orientation, clothing and hygiene kit distribution, and instruction for serving dinner to the homeless.  Ministry ends by 4:30 p.m.

 

REGULAR EVENTS:

Alcohol and Addiction Intervention Information

When: Third Tuesday, monthly; 6 p.m.

Where:  Aurora Charter Oak Hospital, 1161 E. Covina Blvd., Covina

Details:  Free information sessions about the intervention process, a powerful tool to combat alcoholism and addiction.  Attendees can expect to learn what the intervention process consists of, when an intervention is appropriate, and what local resources are available.  Space is limited and reservations are recommended.

Contact:  Call (626) 859-5269, or visit http://www.charteroakhospital.com.

Free Acupuncture for Veterans, Active Military, First Responders

When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

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

Cost: Free

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

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

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

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

Cost: Free Admission/Parking

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

Contact: (909) 869-0701

Walnut Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Closing out its final meeting for the month of January, the Walnut City Council met to discuss matters concerning ordinances for body treatment related businesses, and the City’s stance on historical preservation.

After approving the Jan. 14 meeting minutes, the Council approved the first and only public hearing on its agenda, concerning an ordinance amending business licensing and permits for “body treatment related businesses.”  The ordinance – which comes after growing state-wide concerns that illegal prostitution rings are being run in massage parlors – was the City’s answer to Governor Brown’s Assembly Bill 1147. The bill passed on Sept. 18, 2014, allowing California cities to amend zoning, business licensing and health and safety requirements concerning massage establishments and massage therapist businesses.

The ordinance had many stipulations as to what would be considered grounds for a masseuse and massage establishment being granted a business license within the City, including diplomas or certificates from the state of California Massage Therapy Council, proof of completing at least five full years of experience as a massage technician, and adequate hygiene standards for the building itself.

The Council then went on to approve the second reading of Ordinance No. 15-02, amending Title VI, Chapter 25, to establish historical preservation of the Walnut Municipal Code; Resolution No. 15-07 for checks and demands in the amount of $1,053,197.35; the approval of a one year contract with Athletic Field Specialists for baseball field maintenance at Creekside and Snow Creek parks in the amount of $60,900; a contract amendment for WRA Environmental Consultants to prepare CEQA compliance documents for Tentative Tract Map 49059; and the award bid for the Walnut Senior Citizen’s sound center upgrades.

For the Successor Agency consent calendar, the Council approved its only agenda item, which was for a resolution to the Walnut Improvement Agency confirming repayment in the amount of $442,129.

The Council then adjourned for the evening with plans to meet on Feb. 11 for the next City Council meeting at 21201 La Puente Road.

Loma Linda Family Arrested For Embezzlement

Staff Reports

Riverside – Four former and current officials of an independent labor union in Colton were arrested on Wed., Jan 28, on federal charges related to a scheme to embezzle funds from the union’s health plan.

The four defendants, who were named in a 40-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Jan. 21, are charged with conspiring to embezzle from the health plan for the United Industrial and Service Workers of America Local 101 (UISWA), which serves members in the Inland Empire.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, the defendants allegedly misappropriated a total of approximately $900,000 in union funds over the course of eight years.  Those arrested are John S. Romero, 68, the former president of USIWA; Evelyn Romero, 66, John S. Romero’s wife, who succeeded her husband as president of USIWA and served in that position until June 2014; John J. Romero, 50, who is the son of John S. and Evelyn Romero and who is the former secretary/treasurer of USIWA; and Danae Romero, 37, who is the daughter of John S. and Evelyn Romero and who served as an officer in the union.  All are residents of Loma Linda.

The indictment charges the defendants with conspiring to embezzle assets from the UISWA Health Plan, which was a program intended to provide healthcare benefits to union members.

The indictment also includes charges of knowingly filing false annual reports with the U.S. Department of Labor that failed to disclose more than $100,000 in UISWA revenues and disbursements, willfully misusing the assets from both the UISWA and UISWA Health Plan, and knowingly and willfully permitting another Romero family member – who had previously been convicted of a felony narcotics violation – to serve as an officer and employee of the UISWA.

The indictment alleges that some of the Health Plan’s bank accounts were held in the name of a construction company associated with the Health Plan’s third party administrator, through which the Romero family received payments without the knowledge of consent of the Health Plan’s second trustee. It is further alleged that the Romero family controlled the Health Plan’s reserve fund accounts and used those assets for their personal benefit.

The defendants’ family allegedly used union funds to pay personal and union-related legal fees and judgments levied against them, systematically making payments of Health Plan assets to a separate business entity they operated under false pretenses, fund a payroll account that had been established using the name and employer identification number of a previous labor union they had been in control of that had since terminated operations, pay off a car loan for a vehicle belonging to another Romero family member, and recirculating assets from the Health Plan’s reserve fund to its operating account to cover the insurance expenses for their own healthcare benefits that were billed to the union.

If these individuals are convicted of the charges in the indictment, all four defendants would face decades in federal prison.

South Pointe Students Cycle As They Learn

 

South Pointe Middle School special education students have begun reading and riding using stationary pedals to improve reading skills. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

South Pointe Middle School special education students have begun reading and riding using stationary pedals to improve reading skills. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – South Pointe Middle School special education teacher, Nakia Brener, was looking for a way to help her 6th through 8th Grade students improve their reading skills.  She noticed that they didn’t seem engaged during the 30 minutes of Accelerated Reading each morning.

“They would often pretend to read or do other things,” Brener noted.

A light went off after reading an article shared by her principal in October about integrating kinesthetic learning in the classroom.  A school back east was helping students increase reading scores with exercise bikes used while reading.  This tactile-learning style takes place by students carrying out a physical activity.

Brener was inspired when physical education teachers at her school began having students “read and ride” on workout bikes.  As a former P.E. teacher, she knew movement would help her kids.

“I’m always thinking of ways to keep them alert, awake, and thinking. So I thought I’d try it!” said Brener.

Some schools had actually converted classrooms with bicycle chairs – she knew that would be too expensive.  Brener found a simpler solution – stationary pedals that tuck under the desks. She needed 20 – one for each student.  She wrote grants to Donors Choose and the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation that funded the $800 project.

Many of Brener’s students take an adaptive P.E. class and aren’t able to use a standard bike.  These new tools would provide the same learning benefits and a chance for some additional physical activity.

On Jan.7, the kids opened up the boxes of equipment.

“You’d think it was Christmas here – they loved it!” Brener exclaimed.

For the past two weeks, students have been eager to peddle as they learn. Brener reports “they’ve been peddling away and reading!”  Each student peddles at a different pace – some slow and deliberate, others steady, fast, or even backwards.

“I like it because it keeps my mind going,” said 7th Grader, Tyler Lewis.  “And I feel like I’m getting fit!”

Each day, the specialized academic instruction class begins with 15 minutes of Accelerated Reading (AR) reading followed by 15 minutes of the computerized Language Live component for phonics and reading foundations.

“We haven’t had them long enough to see how they improve reading, but I will say the kids are much more likely to be reading. And they know they can only use the foot pedals if they’re reading,” Brener said.

When Brener wanted to gage how much her students were reading she asked how many pages they completed after the timed reading.  They all reported over 25 pages.

“I think that’s the most you’ve read in 15 minutes, ever!” she exclaimed.

“South Pointe is really a good school for integrating movement and learning!” Brener added.

“It is just another amazing example of doing whatever it takes to ensure the success of our students!” said Principal Susan Arzola.

Straight Talk With Danice

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

My best friend is perfect in every way, but for some reason she is always criticizing herself and her appearance.  Now I’m starting to feel self-conscious every time I’m around her.  She is much prettier than I am, so if she magnifies her own flaws, I wonder what she must think of me.  I’m starting to avoid her unless I’m looking my best.  What should I do?

-Farzi

Hi, Farzi:

Your friend might be suffering from insecurity or low self-esteem.  Just because she judges herself harshly does not mean that she has the same magnifying glass on you.  Don’t avoid your friend.  Share your feelings instead, and help her see her true value.

-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.

Beware Of IRS Phone Scam

By Claire Lewis

Chino – On Jan. 21, a local Chino resident (who wishes to remain anonymous for obvious reasons) was the victim of an attempted scam.  She received a voicemail message – supposedly from the IRS – stating that she owed $3,981 and must pay this outstanding debt immediately.  The victim was threatened with arrest and seizure of all of her property, and becoming alarmed, she called them back at the number provided:  (866) 931-3773 (we called and received a busy signal).

The man who answered the phone (as “Internal Revenue Service”) reiterated the threats, and stated he needed to be kept on the phone while the victim withdrew money from her bank account and deposited it into the “IRS account” by providing verbal information.  Luckily, she did not comply, and the man hung up on her.

Shortly after the call ended, the victim received another call from a woman identifying herself as from the Chino Police Department.  She was told that the Police Department had dispatched an officer to come and arrest her.

The victim immediately contacted the Chino Police Department, and was reassured that this was, in fact, a scam.  They were quick to confirm that the victim did not provide any personal information.

The Chino Police Department would like to remind you that these are not the practices of the IRS or the Police Department.  Beware of such callers; they are very aggressive and use scare-tactics to steal money from unwary victims.  Never provide personal information, including social security numbers, bank account numbers, passwords, addresses or other critical data that could allow criminals into your life – often with serious consequences.

Unfortunately, these scammers get lucky sometimes.  If you have been the victim of a phone scam, report the information to your local Police Department.

Valentine Getaway At Comfort Suites

Staff Reports

Comfort Suites in La Puente. (Photo Courtesy: Comfort Suites)

Comfort Suites in La Puente. (Photo Courtesy: Comfort Suites)

La Puente – With Valentine’s Day just a few weeks away, now is the time to make plans to show that special someone how much you care.  Sure, chocolates are nice, and dinner at a restaurant is fun – if you can get a reservation.  Why not make your celebration really special with a romantic weekend getaway at Comfort Suites?

Not only is every room a beautiful suite, but you can enjoy a delicious, complimentary hot breakfast with your stay.  With affordable rates and a variety of restaurants and entertainment nearby, this could be the perfect gift for your Valentine.

With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, Comfort Suites can make you feel as comfortable as if you were at home. Certified with a three-diamond rating from AAA, the Comfort Suites’ staff ensures that guests are always satisfied with their stay (AAA is one of the most widely respected information sources for travelers throughout the United States and recommends hotels on a 1 to 4 scale).

Comfort Suites offers a wide variety of amenities including free Wi-Fi, cable/satellite on a flat screen plasma TV, a fitness center, 100% smoke-free hotel, and free parking.

Maria Mendoza, General Manager of Comfort Suites, personally invites you to come enjoy your stay at their hotel and take advantage of the unique opportunity to experience the area’s rich history, culture and urban energy. Visitors of every age and interest can enjoy a wide range of activities. La Puente Comfort Suites is located near the Irwindale Speedway, Industry Hills Expo Center, Raging Waters, the beautiful Huntington Library, and much more.

Located at 753 Glendora Avenue in La Puente, Comfort Suites can be reached at (626) 330-0030, or visit their website at www.industryhillshotel.com for more information and photos of their site.  And be sure to check out their ad on page 6 of this publication.

How Distracted Is Your Driving?

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – I was recently listening to a favorite radio program, and the DJ made mention of a man who was pulled over by police and cited for eating a hamburger while driving.

At first I thought, really?  What’s next? But as I was driving down the freeway attempting to put hot sauce on my taco*, I began to think, perhaps eating while driving is as much of a distraction – if not more – as texting.

Years ago, a friend of mine was on the road for work and had grabbed some drive-thru lunch on her way to an appointment.  As she attempted to merge her little pickup from the onramp to the travel lane – simultaneously picking up freeway speed and taking that first bite of a juicy burger – her tires caught in the grooves of the shoulder.  Not willing to sacrifice the burger, she one-handedly over corrected her steering and flipped her truck.  The burger didn’t make it.  Without the grace of God, she wouldn’t have made it either.  After a couple of weeks in the hospital, she thought twice before ever eating while driving again.

Distracted driving includes a variety of activities, the very popular texting, phones (laptops!), eating, talking to passengers, grooming (if I had a nickel for every time I saw someone applying mascara at a traffic signal…), reading, using navigation, watching videos – you name it; if it takes your visual, manual or cognitive attention away from your driving, it’s a distraction.  And by the way, texting requires all three skills…at once.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTS) revealed from a survey that only one out of five young drivers thinks that texting makes no difference in their driving performance.  The average text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds.  Combine that with traveling 55 miles per hour; that’s enough time to cover the length of a football field – blindfolded.  A frightening visual (pun intended) that I would venture to say might make a difference.

A National Occupant Protection Use Survey showed that at any given daylight hour across the nation, more than 660,000 drivers are manipulating electronic devices – the lion’s share by texting.  NHTS says that in 2012, 3,328 people were killed and 421,000 were injured in distraction-affected crashes – depending on how you look at it, more than 60% of those distracted while driving, crashed.

71% of teens surveyed admit to composing and sending a text while driving.  Coincidentally, nearly 70% of California drivers surveyed in 2013 said they had been hit or nearly hit by a driver who was talking or texting on a phone.

These are all statistics that just scream, STOP!  Do you really want to drive in an environment where you are surrounded by – maybe you are one of them – individuals creating a crash risk 23 times greater than driving while not distracted?  I’m visualizing a group of friends in a car:   they just hit the drive-thru on their way to a party, and they are having a great time texting back and forth with other friends heading to the same party…they are all engaged on everything, except the road.  How often do you think this happens?  Exactly.

Whatever takes your eyes from the road – even for a second – has the ability to alter your life forever.  The outcome is rarely a good one.  Don’t learn from experience, take statistics to heart.  That call, text, burger or ? can wait until you are stationary and safe.

We lived quite comfortably for thousands of years without the immediate gratification of iPhone/Android technology.  There is nothing worth the risk of a precious life – yours, or someone else you may affect, by being impaired in some way.

A vehicle can be a symbol of success or poverty, a well-loved member of the family (good, old Bessie), or simply the thing that gets you from A to B.  I can also be a lethal weapon when operated outside of the law.

Lt. Scott Forbes from the Eastvale Police Department gives us this sage advice, “In the short time it takes to read or respond to a text, your vehicle can conceivably travel hundreds of feet.  Please don’t gamble with your safety or the safety of other motorists.  The risk is just too great.”

Be safe. Don’t drive distracted.  Ever.

Visit www.distracted.gov to learn more.  Educate yourself, your teens, your friends, all those you care about.

 

*An embellishment for entertainment purposes.  No tacos were harmed in the writing of this article.  Oh, c’mon!  How many times have your knees done the steering for you?

A Life Without Regret

By Nancy Stoops

Just for a moment, picture your last day here on earth.  You’re not in any pain and you’re lying on your bed.  As the day goes by, you’re entire life is flashing by and you’re really taking stock of your life.  I want you to ask yourself, will you be content with your life or will you be filled with regret?

So once again, I find myself writing a very motivational article that is intended to wake those of you who always put off ‘living your life’.  I wonder what it is that you fear, and why you don’t understand that this is the only chance that you will get.

We seem to believe that we have many more tomorrows than we actually do.  All we really can count on is today, and the here and now.  Today is the day to start making your dreams come true.  Today is the day to start living a life with no regrets.

Don’t feel guilty because you have a dream and need to put energy into making it happen.  I mean, after all, dreams coming true are just our rewards for hard work.  I’ve seen many of my own – and many other people’s – dreams come true.  I believe anything is possible if you are willing to do the work.

To me there is nothing worse than a life filled with regret.  To me a life filled with regret is a life wasted.  Trust me when I tell you, it’s never too late to go after a dream.  Don’t tell me you’re too young or too old, but instead modify that dream for the time being.  I know that part of a dream come true is better than none at all.  Inner peace comes by living a life without regret, and so does happiness!

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.