Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News

Conspiracy Or Complacency?

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

I know a lot of people are convinced that there are secret government conspiracies under every rock and behind every bush.  I haven’t gone quite that far, but I did stumble upon something that made me stop and wonder a little.

I went to the local grocery store the other day to pick up some milk and orange juice.  These are part of breakfast at our house and we need to resupply from time to time. We usually buy these in larger quantities at an unnamed “big box” store, but this time I made a quick stop at our local super market.  The milk was in its usual half-gallon plastic carton.   But, when I picked up the carton of orange juice I happened to notice that it was not actually a half-gallon.  It was only 59 ounces, not the full half-gallon 64 ounces.

Now you may think that this is not a big deal. What is the difference between 59 ounces and the half-gallon 64 ounces?  The carton looked the same.  The orange juice tasted the same.  What are a few ounces between friends?

Apparently this “down-sizing” is happening more than we realize in the grocery business. Several years ago, the ice cream makers reduced the size of a carton of ice cream from a half-gallon to “1.5 quarts”.  A half-gallon is two quarts.  They reduced the contents by 25%, but kept the price the same.

I like ice cream, so I have kept buying it at the grocery store.  But, I don’t like the way that the manufacturers are charging the same price (or higher) for a smaller amount of product.

This may be happening on other shelves in the grocery store.  Have candy bars gotten smaller?  Have bags of flour been reduced in size?  Have shampoo bottles shrunk?

Apparently the food and grocery industry thinks it is smarter to reduce the size and volume of their products rather than increase their prices.  They must believe that consumers won’t notice the down-sizing and stop buying their products.

I may be the only one who has noticed this “sleight of hand” at the grocery store.  Maybe it isn’t a big deal.  But I think it would be more accurate and more honest if the stores and their suppliers would keep sizes and prices consistent so that shoppers and consumers can know what we are really paying for their products.

Maybe it is time to launch a boycott of orange juice and ice cream to let the manufactures know that we don’t like this sleight of hand.  Or, maybe it is time to write a letter to the stores that are stocking their shelves with smaller quantities and higher prices.

Maybe we should write to our local Congressman and ask for a Congressional investigation!  Or maybe we should just enjoy our ice cream and orange juice and realize things just aren’t what they used to be.

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.

 

 

Chino Hills: Tip-a-Cop Fundraiser To Benefit Special Olympics

STAFF REPORTS

Chino Hills – In a fundraiser to benefit the Special Olympics Inland Empire Region, the Chino Hills Police Department Deputies will serve patrons at California Pizza Kitchen on Thurs., Nov. 6, from 5 to 9 p.m.

The Deputies will serve dinner patrons as hosts and waiters for the evening, and proceeds from this Tip-A-Cop event will benefit Special Olympics Inland Empire Region athletes.

Additionally, simply mention the Special Olympics at any time during your visit on Nov. 6, and 20% of your meal purchase will be donated to support these athletes!

Come support your local law enforcement officers and enjoy delicious food and fun, all for a great cause. California Pizza Kitchen is located in the Shoppes at Chino Hills, located at 3505 Grand Avenue, in Chino Hills.

 

Pomona: Pantera Elementary Awarded $12,000 Grant

BY JULLIETT FUNES

pantera-elementary-pomona

Darryl Montgomery, Wells Fargo President for the Eastern Gateway of Southern California, left, presents a $12,000 check to Pantera Elementary students, Jason Westrick and Dillon Marquez, and Pantera Elementary Principal Todd Riffell. The school will use the funds for a new copy machine. (Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)

Pomona – Dozens of Pantera Elementary School students and their parents recently attended the school’s Math, Science and Movie Night, where they learned about the new math standards, explored robotics, watched a movie under the stars, and had a surprise awaiting them.

During the jam-packed event, hosted by the Diamond Bar schools’ Parent-Teacher Organization (PTO), Wells Fargo President for the Eastern Gateway of Southern California, Darryl Montgomery, presented Principal Todd Riffell with a $12,000 grant check to go toward a new copy machine.

“This grant is a result of the great collaborative efforts among the parents and teachers at Pantera Elementary,” said Pomona Unified School District Board of Education President, Frank Guzman. “I congratulate them on their foresight to seek out what resources are available to support and enhance their school.”

As part of the event, guest speakers from Diamond Ranch High School presented their robotics program and Ganesha High School students held a science exhibit in the quad area, where young learners participated in hands-on experiments and learned about the programs at each school.

Additionally, math specialist, Grace Greenleaf, presented parents with information on the Math Common Core State Standards. Greenleaf encouraged parents to look for teachable moments, actively engage their children and help them gain fluency in basic math computation.

“As we continue our transition to the new Common Core standards, holding interactive events like these is imperative to provide a great foundation for parents to be involved in their students’ academic success,” said Superintendent Richard Martinez. “As a District, we are committed to working closely with parents as they help prepare their children for college and career.”

 

Walnut: Westhoff Families Feast at Culture Fair

BY KELLI GILE

westhoff_girls_at_culture_fair

Westhoff Elementary hosted its annual Culture Fair on October 10 featuring traditional food, clothing, customs, music, and a parade. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Hundreds of Westhoff Elementary families and friends enjoyed foods from around the world during a Culture Fair, held October 10.

15 different countries were represented at decorated booths with music, customs, and lots of delicious authentic food. Students wore traditional clothing to parade around the school while a DJ offered music for dining and dancing.

“This is one of my favorite nights of our school year.  Everyone relaxes during the cool evening, eats delicious food, and chats with other Westhoff families,” said Principal Denise Rendon.

The school’s Community Club hosts the fair where parents, students, and teachers come together to celebrate diversity of the many cultures represented at the school.

“It is an opportunity for our children to learn about their friends’ customs and share about their own,” said President Melinda Powell.

“I dressed up in my Indian Clothes.  I like eating other culture’s food, but my favorite was my families’ table of Indian food,” added Priya Kankanala, a 3rd Grader.

Parent Valerie Lu hosted a Hawaiian booth that was a big hit with Kalua pork, spam musubi, haupia, and of course shaved ice.

“Culture Fair is such a unique tradition at Westhoff. The amount of effort put in by all the parent volunteers is tremendous and just as rewarding,” she said. Community Club member Lu serves as the school’s Coordinating Council representative.

There were many delicious dishes from around the world with pad Thai and pineapple fried rice (Thailand), cream puffs (France), tamales (Mexico), stuffed grape leaves (Egypt), chili and cornbread (USA), and more. Parent volunteers at the China table served foods representing its many different regions including Hunan, Sichuan, and Shandong.  Along with sampling tasty treats at the Pakistan booth, the kids came away decorated with beautiful henna designs.

“It’s such a wonderful opportunity to get to meet the families of our children’s new friends, catch up with old friends, all while enjoying amazing authentic food!” Powell said.

 

 

Walnut Family Festival Thank You

BY CLAUDINE STINES

Walnut – The purpose of our presence at the Walnut Family Festival was to make a difference in our community and continue to bring awareness of the need for an aquatic park.  This year, we gave residents the opportunity to view the proposed drawing of the aquatic park and amphitheater and to increase our data base in order to keep residents informed.

Our presence at the festival was well received.  Additionally, after one year, we continue to receive an overwhelming amount of positive comments. All questions posed to volunteers at the booth centered on the aquatic park and when it would be built. Certainly, I wanted to say next year, but will continue to keep you informed of the City’s progress.

walnut_aquatic_park

Walnut Aquatic Park Conceptual Drawing (Photo Courtesy: Claudine Stines)

While the schematic of the proposed site of the aquatic park was displayed and its location identified (Sierra Alta Road intersection and entry into the park, west of the soccer fields, and even sighting Westhoff Elementary School), attendees looking at the conceptual drawing could not grasp the exact location. Suggestions were made to place signage at the proposed site on Amar Road identifying the exact location.  The sign currently in the proposed area of the site states, “Walnut Ranch Park Expansion,” which was placed there by the previous developer.

The community liked the idea of the elevated water temperature in the vicinity considered recreation/therapeutic pools, 6-lane lap pool, zero to four feet entry pool and River Current Channel.  The age group varied and included both men and women.  Seniors just liked the therapeutic area, period.

Additionally, it was asked if the Recreation Building could include a ballroom with a capacity of 500 people and additional classrooms as promised.  Some years ago Walnut residents were invited to a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting to identify what they would like to see in this facility; hence the comments.  For those of you who are not familiar with the Diamond Bar facility, the banquet room has seating for 800 plus people, which is continually booked, and, not because it is low-priced.

Finally, young parents really liked the Spray Park with zero depth. The Amphitheater and additional parking for the soccer field were also well received. Naturally, our young adults and teens wanted to know when the water slides would be built.

In no particular order, please join me in thanking those volunteers who have always been there to support our efforts. Without you, we wouldn’t have had a booth at the Festival.

  • Paul and Linda Yang, from Walnut Signs, for our two banners and translating our flyer into Chinese.
  • Venessa Pai, for attaching ribbons to over 1,000 pictures.
  • Michel Paulson and Jackie, Golden Spoon Representatives, who walked the festival passing out brochures and Golden Spoon coupons wearing Walnut Aquatic posters.
  • Sharon Walker, a Red Hat Lady.
  • Noni Nabong-Cabote.
  • Lily Tseng.
  • Roger Peng.
  • Angel Lin.
  • Magdalena DeZubiria and Nicholas.
  • Shelly Rzonka and Family.
  • Jodie Lepp and Friends.
  • Kenny Silverberg.
  • The Manuel Family.

Did You Know?

BY K.P. SANDER

bloodyskeletonHalloween, or All Hallows Eve, is a day of celebration for many countries, held on October 31 each year and dedicated to remembering the dearly departed. While many honor it at face value, it is more commonly known as an opportunity for children to don costumes and collect candy.

Interestingly enough, trick-or-treating has an origin that dates far back into history.

William Shakespeare spoke of it in The Two Gentlemen of Verona in 1593, in a passage that mentions ‘whimpering like a beggar at Hallowmas’. Great Britain records the custom of poor people going door to door to receive food in exchange for saying prayers for the dead, called “Souling”. “Guising,” or visiting homes masquerading in disguise to be rewarded with cakes, fruit or money, was a Scottish tradition as far back as 1895. Similar guising in North America is first noted in 1911, when Ontario, Canada reported children masquerading throughout neighborhoods.

Nowadays, typical activities include the popular trick-or-treating, carving pumpkins into jack-o’-lanterns, visiting haunted house attractions, attending parties, and watching scary movies. In many parts of the world, Christian religious observances still include attending church service and lighting candles on the graves of the dead.

Whatever your tradition, enjoy a Happy Halloween!

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

 

“A Family Reunion To Die For”

When: Saturday, Oct. 25; Saturday, Nov. 1; Dinner 6 p.m., Show 7 p.m.

Where: Walnut High School Multi-Purpose Room, 400 N. Pierre Road, Walnut

Details: All seats $15 to enjoy a comedy murder mystery and taco dinner (with all the trimmings, drinks and dessert). Tickets must be purchased at least one day in advance. Presented by the Walnut High School Drama Department.

Contact: For information and reservations, call Joanne Karr, (909) 594-1333, ext. 34212

 

Annual Ghoster Park Halloween Hunt

When: Saturday, October 25, 7 to 10 p.m.

Where: Galster Park, 1620 E. Aroma Drive, West Covina

Details: The City of West Covina and the San Gabriel Mountains Regional Conservancy dare you to be scared at a night of spooky fun! Brave men will cry out for their ‘mummies’ on the Trail of Terror. There will also be Halloween activities, a costume contest, and other Halloween-inspired events. This is a free family event for the entire community.

Contact: Call the Community Services Department at (626) 919-6966, or visit www.westcovina.org

 

Haunted House

When: Thurs., Oct. 30 and Fri., Oct. 31; 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: Heritage Community Center, 2900 S. Brea Canyon Road, Diamond Bar

Details: Scary good fun for willing victims whose objective will be to find the exit! $5 per person; not recommended for children younger than 8 years of age.

Contact: For more information, call (909) 839-7070; coupons available at www.diamondbar.ca.gov/hhh.

 

23rd Annual Scholarship Tree of Lights Fundraiser

When: Thurs., Oct. 30 through Thurs., Nov. 20; and Dec. 4 – 5; noon to 4 p.m.

Where: Von’s Market, 350 N. Lemon Avenue, Walnut

Details: The Walnut Valley Women’s Club announces it will be selling lights for $5, and ornaments for $10. All proceeds go toward scholarships for 2014 graduates from Walnut and Nogales High Schools.

 

Fall Fun Festival

When: Fri., Oct. 31; 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Where: Heritage Park, 2900 S. Brea Canyon Road, Diamond Bar

Details: Family fun for the little ones “too cute to spook,” ages 2 to 8. Games, prizes, candy, arts, crafts, photo ops and more, admission is $5 per child and includes ten games or crafts; admission is free for accompanying adults.

Contact: For more information, call (909) 839-7070.

 

Mostly Ghostly

When: Fri., Oct. 31, 6 to 8:30 p.m.

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

Details: The perfect event for the entire family with fun carnival games, ‘touch of fright’ maze, and costume contest.

 

Slasher Studios Haunted Maze

When: Fri., Oct. 31 and Sat., Nov. 1; 7 to 9 p.m.

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

Details: Walk through the movie sets for the chilliest thrill of your life, and find out if you will make the final cut. $3 per body (may not be suitable for young children); benefits go toward Walnut schools’ athletic programs.

 

After Halloween Lot Party

When: Sat., Nov. 1, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

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

Details: Live DJ, food trucks, games, movie (Disney’s Hocus Pocus), live performance from Team Millennia, Dance Contest. Cost is $5 pre-sale; $8 at the door (admission includes a trip through the Haunted Maze).

 

Connections To The Future

When: Thursday, Nov. 6; 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Where: Rowland High School, 2000 S. Otterbein Avenue, Rowland Heights

Details: Business and community leaders will help high school students learn how to network and practice their presentation skills at a special luncheon event. Organized and facilitated by senior students in the award-winning Career Certification Program at Nogales and Rowland High Schools. Henry DiCarlo, Meteorologist for KTLA-TV Morning News is the keynote speaker.

Contact: For more information visit http://careerpathways.rowland.k12.ca.us; Business Leaders wanting to participate should call (626) 854-8303.

 

50th Annual Home for the Holidays

When: Sun., Nov. 9, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: St. Lucy’s Priory High School, 655 W. Sierra Madre Ave., Glendora (Barranca and Grand Avenues).

Details: Shop, dine and be entertained at St. Lucy’s Priory High School’s Christmas Boutique. Visit the North Pole Food Court for gourmet offerings; enjoy live entertainment. All proceeds go toward supporting the school’s curriculum and operational needs. Event and parking are complimentary.

Contact: Call (626) 963-0017, or visit http://www.stlucys.com

 

Inland Pacific Ballet’s, The Nutcracker

When: Nov. 29 through Dec. 27

Where: Arcadia Performing Arts Center (188 Campus Drive, Arcadia), Nov. 29/30, 2 p.m.; Lewis Family Playhouse (12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga), Dec. 6, 1 and 7 pm., Dec. 7, 1 p.m.; Pomona College’s Bridges Auditorium (450 North College Way, Claremont), Dec. 13/14/20/21; Fox Performing Arts Center (3801 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside), Dec 27, 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Details: The critically acclaimed Inland Pacific Ballet brings The Nutcracker story to life with dazzling sets, beautiful costumes, and nearly 100 dancers on stage – in four theatres! Tickets start at $38, with discounts available.

Contact: jpballet.org

 

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Bookstore Blowout

Where: Twice Sold Tale Bookstore located at the Walnut Library, La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Details: All books and media: Any four items for $1 ($1 minimum purchase).

Contact: (909) 595-0757 or email the.walnut.library@mac.com.

 

Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second Tuesday of every month.

Where: Basically BOOKS locations: at 23447 Golden Springs Road, Diamond Bar and at the Diamond Bar Library: 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.

Details: Books and education videos will be offered at special discounts for teachers at all levels. Teachers can sign up at either Basically BOOKS locations or email BasicallyBOOKS@aol.com to join these special teacher appreciation afternoons.

 

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

 

DB Community Garden Space

When: Ongoing; daylight hours.

Where: United Church of Christ, 2335 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., Diamond Bar

Details: The Diamond Bar United Church of Christ is progressing on their Community Garden space, located behind the church. Residents interested in developing their own garden space, or helping with this project, are encouraged to visit the Labyrinth on the hilltop. This is also a wonderful location for reflection, and enjoying some peaceful moments in your day.

Contact: Susanne Potter, (909) 861-4735, or visit http://www.diamondbarucc.org.

 

Walnut: Council Corner 10.22.14

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – The Council chambers of Walnut City Hall was packed to near capacity on Wed., Oct. 22, with the City Council meeting to discuss the controversial topic of Michael Montgomery’s ongoing contract as City Attorney.

walnut_city_council_10.22.14

The City Council commends the chairs for the Walnut Family Festival for providing the City with another amazing event. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

To start off the meeting, the council members thanked the chairs of the Walnut Family Festival for their months of service to bring the City its biggest event of the year.

“It was lots of fun and it was a beautiful day,” Mayor Nancy Tragarz said. “It’s because of all of your long, hard work…we appreciate all the work you do.”

Following the presentation, public comment was opened to a mix of complaints and affirmations about Tragarz and her mission to terminate Montgomery’s contract with the city.

Claims against Tragarz grew nasty in several cases, including a 34-page packet of documents, made by persons unknown, and claiming that Tragarz was misleading the Walnut residents about Montgomery’s contracts and past missteps.

Walnut resident, Phil Bennett, spoke during the public comments, claiming that Tragarz was attempting to fire Montgomery in order to take his job as City Attorney.

walnut_city_council_10.22.14

Mayor Tragarz lists off items against City Attorney Michael Montgomery during the Oct. 22 City Council meeting, citing him as a liability to the residents of Walnut. Despite the laundry list of complaints and malfeasances, Montgomery’s contract was affirmed with amendments about obtaining liability insurance. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Tragarz shot back that she had no interest in becoming City Attorney, and that she was going to start working at an unnamed law firm in November.

The Council then approved the minutes for the Aug. 27 study session, Sept. 24 City Council meeting, and public hearing Item No. 4, provisions for employee housing ordinance.

The Council also approved to bring back a zoning change for the Walnut Esplanade specific plan after further discussion.

For the Consent Calendar, the Council approved a resolution for the authorization for the City Manager to enter into contract with Morse Planning Group to prepare an environmental impact report for the proposed Brookside Specific Plan, and an item concerning the Mount San Antonio College parking structure, with Council Member Mary Su stating that residents should voice their concerns to the college in opposition.

Item No. 5, for claims and demands in the amount of $1,021,209.48, was pulled to be discussed during the meeting’s Item No. 8 section when considering Montgomery’s contract dispute, and later approved in its entirety.

What followed was Tragarz outlining the many disputes she had with Montgomery being paid under a defunct law firm, not having malpractice insurance and misleading the council members on certain matters.

Past lawsuits concerning a failed Zen Center and $1 million settlement, and a recent ongoing lawsuit between Walnut and Standard Pacific Homes were some of the ammunition given by Tragarz, stating that Montgomery has been known to give poor legal advice that has harmed the City and its taxpayers.

Tragarz even accused Montgomery of leaking footage from a closed session meeting to a member of the press, calling to light his ethics.

Councilmember Bob Pacheco said Montgomery’s contract was ratified when she (Tragarz) and other members of the Walnut Improvement Agency approved Montgomery’s contract several years ago.

Additionally, Pacheco recited the 32-page packet of documents entitled the “Clarification of Fabricated Lies Regarding Michael Montgomery, City Attorney.”

Talks dragged on for more than four hours, with bickering between council members and the City Attorney, leading Mayor Pro Tem, Eric Ching, to push a request for proposal, to open up the position of City Attorney to others.

The motion failed, leading the Council to approve a new contract for Montgomery with amendments concerning the liability insurance. The affirmation was approved on a 3-2 vote.

The City Council meeting adjourned with plans to meet again Nov. 12, at 7 p.m., in the City Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

Diamond Bar: Council Corner

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met on Tues., Oct. 21, for a regularly scheduled meeting, covering topics for a land and water conservation fund grant, bus shelters, and the Grand Avenue Beautification Project.

After public comments, the schedule of future events was read, outlining a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting, a time capsule dedication, a planning commission meeting, a Halloween Haunted House at Heritage Park, the Fall Fun Festival on Oct. 31 at Heritage Park, the next City Council meeting on Nov. 4, a Veterans’ celebration on Nov. 5, and the City’s observance of Veteran’s Day on Nov. 11 (when all City offices will be closed).

The Council then uniformly approved all items on the consent calendar concerning the minutes for City Council meeting on Oct. 7; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on June 12 and July 10; the ratification of a check registered for $834,087.05; a Resolution approving the application for $153,346 for the Land and Water Conservation Fund Grant for the Silver Tip Park Trail and Trail Head; the utilization of Federal funds in the amount of $1,032,964 for the Grand Avenue Beautification Project; the second reading and adoption revising the City’s purchasing system; an agreement with Clear Channel Outdoor to extend their franchise agreement for bus shelters in Diamond Bar for an additional seven years; and an award for the Professional Engineering Services Contract to Tait and Associates, Inc. for civil engineering design, construction administration/inspection and construction survey for the Ronald Reagan Park and Carlton Peterson Park parking lots rehabilitation project in the total amount of $120,685.

The meeting officially adjourned at 7:19 p.m., in memory of long-time Diamond Bar resident, Eileen Tillery, with plans to meet on Nov. 4 at 6:30 p.m. in the council chambers at 21865 Copley Drive.

 

San Gabriel Vally: Water Supply Emergency Declared in SG Basin

Staff Reports

SGV – It’s no secret that we are experiencing a severe drought, and that water is in short supply, but the Main San Gabriel Basin water_drophas been pushed to record lows. Groundwater levels in the Basin will continue to drop if this coming winter does not provide above average rainfall and significant amounts of imported water used to replenish the depleted groundwater supplies are not provided by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD).

The Board of Directors for the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (Upper District) has recently approved a resolution adopting a water supply emergency. This District provides wholesale water service, recycled water and groundwater replenishment supplies to retail water providers that serve all, or portions of, 18 cities including Arcadia, Azusa, Baldwin Park, Bradbury, Covina, Duarte, El Monte, Glendora, Industry, Irwindale, La Puente, Monrovia, Rosemead, San Gabriel, South El Monte, South Pasadena, Temple City and West Covina.

This unprecedented action follows three consecutive dry years, with the winter of 2013-14 being a record dry year.

The Upper District’s Board President, Anthony Fellow, said that the recent action is necessary to continue the reliable and safe operation of the Basin’s water supply.

“Groundwater levels continue to hit record lows and weather forecasts predict continued drought-like conditions; the Upper District recognizes it is critical to reinforce the water conservation emergency regulations mandated by the State Water Resources Control Board in August, and also strongly supports Governor Brown’s call for all Californians to reduce their personal water use by 20 percent,” said Fellow.

The Basin is at a record low level of 182 feet above mean sea level as measured at the Key Well, located in Baldwin Park. Over 36 inches of rain is needed to make up for the current shortfall from the last three years. Even more is needed just to return to the low end of the safe operating range.

The Upper District states that without deliveries of imported water, and if the coming winter is as dry as last year, groundwater levels could drop another 20 feet or more. Many groundwater wells will lose production capacity (requiring longer operation times), and several will no longer be able to provide any water. The Main San Gabriel Basin Watermaster is working closely with local water providers to update an emergency water supply plan to deal with this condition and get ahead of the issues before things become even worse.

“MWD will play a critical role in stretching its already thin water supplies to help San Gabriel Valley communities through this drought,” stated Fellow.

Maintaining the safe operating yield of the Basin is critical not only for the management of a reliable watershed, but also in containing the migration of contaminant plumes that are found in the groundwater. Per the Judgment entered into in 1974 by all water rights holders in the Basin, it is the Watermaster’s responsibility to maintain these safe operating levels and manage the Basin. Upper District’s actions support the Watermaster’s responsibility to manage the Basin and ensure that water requested for groundwater replenishment is delivered on the same terms and conditions as provided to other Metropolitan member agencies.

The Upper District’s mission is to provide a reliable, sustainable, diversified and affordable portfolio of high quality water supplies to the San Gabriel Valley, including water conservation, recycled water, storm water capture, storage, water transfers and imported water. The Upper District serves nearly one million people in its 144 square mile territory, using more than 78 billion gallons of water in the service area.

For more information about the Upper District, please visit http://www.upperdistrict.org or call (626) 443-2297.

10-2014 IE Community News

2014-10-IEcommnews-500The Inland Empire Community News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Eastvale, Ontario, Corona, Riverside and surrounding areas of the Inland Empire and portions the San Gabriel Valley and northern Orange County. Click this link 2014-10-IEcommnewsAll to access the complete issue in pdf format.

Chino: Suspicious Person Warning To Community

STAFF REPORTS

Chino – The Chino Police Department has issued a warning to the community regarding a suspicious person who may be attempting to lure students walking to and from school.

On Wed., Oct. 22, at approximately 8:40 a.m. Officers responded to the 14300 block of Pipeline Avenue after receiving a report of a van, being driving by an unknown adult, followed a 15-year old female on her way to school. The victim stated that the driver of the van made multiple attempts to contact her, and continued to follow her despite her numerous attempts to elude the situation.

The victim reported that she was not able to clearly see the driver, but described the individual as having a large build, and stated that the vehicle was a grey, cargo-style van with tinted windows.

The Chino Police Department, along with the Chino Valley Unified School District, strongly encourage students to walk in pairs or groups whenever possible, and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the local police department.

This investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 10.25.14

The-Weekly-News -10.25.14

The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link Oct25WeeklyAll  to access the complete Oct. 25th, 2014 issue in pdf format.

Straight Talk With Danice

BY DANICE AKIYOSHI, N.D

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

I recently attended a dinner meeting with a female business associate who told me that she and her husband are having serious marital problems and that she might file for divorce. I have been attracted to her for three years, but ignored my feelings because she’s married. If she files for divorce how long should I wait before I ask her out?

-Anthony

Dear Anthony:

Don’t pursue her in any serious way until she’s had enough time to repair her life emotionally. Give her your number and tell her that you’d be very interested in getting to know her better in the future, if she has any interest. Leave it at that. People often make lots of mistakes when they end a relationship. You don’t want to be any part of all of that if you really like this woman. If she’s interested, she’ll call.

-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.

 

 

 

Did You Know?

BY K.P. SANDER

the-surrender-of-cornwallis

The Surrender of Cornwallis (Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)

Although the Revolutionary War officially ended in 1782, the last battle came to pass with surrender on Oct. 19, 1781, 233 years ago.

The Battle of Yorktown, which began on Oct. 6 of that year, when British General, Charles Cornwallis, moved his troops to Virginia to take over the command from loyalist, General Benedict Arnold. He found the troops low on reinforcements and supplies.

At the same time, General George Washington was moving to attack New York with the help of the French – who were convinced to help by Benjamin Franklin. Cornwallis was ordered to bring all 7,500 of his troops to New York, but he did not obey, staying in Yorktown (now Williamsburg, VA).

On Oct. 6, General Washington’s Continental Army attacked Cornwallis with over 16,000 men, including the French, and the American colonists and militia. The Continental Army persevered, and then on Oct. 17, the British sent a fleet from New York to assist Cornwallis, but it was too late. The British were outnumbered and out of supplies and food.

A letter was delivered to Cornwallis from General Washington, stating that he wanted to stop the “useless effusion of blood.” Realizing there was no hope for his troops, Cornwallis replied with this letter:

York in Virginia, 17th October 1781, 1/2 Past 4 P.M. 

Sir,

I have this moment been honoured with your Excellency’s letter dated this day.

The time limited for sending my answer will not admit of entering into the detail of Articles, but the basis of my proposals will be that the Garrisons of York and Gloucester shall be prisoners of War with the customary honours, and for the convenience of the individuals which I have the honour to command, that the British shall be sent to Britain and the Germans to Germany, under engagement not to serve against France, America or their Allies untill released or regularly exchanged, that all Arms and publick stores shall be delivered up to you, but that the usual indulgence of side arms to Officers and of retaining private property shall be granted to Officers & Soldiers, and that the interests of several individuals in Civil Capacities & connected with us, shall be attended to. If Your Excellency thinks that a continuance of the suspension of hostilities will be necessary to transmit your answer I shall have no objection to the hour that you propose. I have the honor to be,

Your most obedient & most humble servant,

Cornwallis

 

 

Just A Thought…

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

Is Social Media really Anti-Social Media? With the advent of “smart-phones” our communication styles have perhaps become less intelligent. With everything from a lack of actual conversation to cyber bullying, Social Media may be ruining many lives.

Social Media is the apple, and we are Adam and Eve. With it, we’ve tasted the truth; we’ve been empowered. Do we think we are God-like, making our own rules; defying purity; defying morality? Were we ever emotionally equipped for the rapid advancement of the Facebooks, Twitters and Instagrams of this world?

There are now consequences for what we believe is acceptable, according to what the majority of a ‘conversational’ thread dictates. It is sad that our individuality is being convoluted by our need – our greed – to be accepted, loved, and “liked”.

Our need to feel right socially has become our weakness. God said the beast will try and destroy us; could the “beast” be technology? “It” is surely behind this weakness, encouraging some with immorality and introversion. Man created technology, not God. And with this obsessive socialism of technology, could man be unknowingly destroying man? Are we so ‘social’ that we are missing out on society?

Just a thought…

 

Weddings And Marriage

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

In my last article, I mentioned that my wife and I had attended four weddings in four weeks from late August and to the end of September.  All of the weddings were at outdoor locations from Temecula to Malibu, from Oak Glen to downtown L.A.

It used to be that June was the month for weddings, but one wedding planner told me that now September has become the new popular choice for weddings.

There is a passage in the Bible that says, “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother, cleave to his wife and the two will become one flesh,” (Genesis 2:24).  This short verse contains three important words.

When a couple gets married, they need to leave their father and mother.  They need to end their dependence on their parents and establish their own family.  Many young adults have already done this by finishing school and starting a career.  But, sometimes they have remained financially and emotionally dependent on their parents.

In addition, the married couple needs to cleave to one another.  The word in the original Hebrew language has the idea of an unbreakable bond.  We might use the word “super glue” to convey the idea that a married couple needs to “stick together” and not let anything or anyone break this sacred commitment.

Finally, the Bible verse also says that the married man and woman “become one flesh”.  This expresses the physical intimacy that God intended for a married couple to share.  It is one of the most remarkable and unique relationships known to mankind.

These days, sadly, physical intimacy is not taken seriously.  Movies, TV sitcoms, books and magazines often give the impression that intimacy does not need to be protected and that people should pursue any relationships they want.

Maybe it sounds old fashioned to encourage students and young adults to not live recklessly and thoughtlessly in this area of their lives.  Maybe it seems unrealistic to expect married couples to remain faithful to their wedding vows and to one another.

Maybe we need to remind ourselves and our kids that marriage is something very special.

Weddings are special moments in the lives of the couple getting married and for families who celebrate this wonderful occasion.

Regardless of what month you select for your wedding, I hope you will remember these three important words – leave, cleave and become one!

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.

 

10-2014 SGV Community News

2014-10--SGVcommnews

The San Gabriel Valley Community News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, La Puente, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of the San Gabriel Valley and portions of the western Inland Empire and northern Orange County. Click this link 2014-10-SGVcommnewsAll to access the complete issue in pdf format.

Celebrating the Simple Things

BY NANCY STOOPS

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

I believe that each day we have the honor of being alive is call for celebration. Every morning as I awaken and see the sun rising and filling the sky with majestic colors, I am reminded of how lucky we are.As I step out in the morning with Midnight, my therapy dog, I feel blessed for his friendship and for the health that we both have. As we start our walk through our wonderful community, I am proud to be part of it and I enjoy the morning song of the birds around us. As we walk, I enjoy the trees and flowers that represent life in the neighborhood.

Midnight and I are greeted by the other daily walkers with a friendly smile and warm hello. It’s so nice to be part of such a wonderful neighborhood filled with such lovely people.

Sometimes the other dogs will visit with Midnight as we make our way through our neighborhood, and that makes Midnight a very happy soul.

I think the feeling of the sun on my face is just magical. The fragrant plants and flowers are intoxicating and so very delightful. Swimming or floating in water has always been very freeing for me. Laughter truly is the best medicine and I think we all could do a lot more of it. Looking up at a night sky filled with stars and a full moon can be an experience that provides a wonderful kind of solace. Just hanging out with my grandson is fabulous.

These simple things I speak of don’t cost any money, but are literally priceless. I think if we all take time to appreciate the simple things that are so wonderful in our world, we will be more positive. I think we will not dwell so much on what is wrong, but focus on what is right!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Diamond Bar, and is currently accepting new clients. Nancy also runs free family support groups, anger management groups, and special groups for seniors and teens. She is also available for motivational speaking engagements. For more information on any of these services, contact Nancy at (909)229-0727.