Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News

San Gabriel Valley: Halloween Safety

STAFF REPORTS

halloween-clip-art-free-halloween-clipart-3SGV – Halloween is one of the most anticipated holidays for adults and children throughout the Chino Valley and beyond. Our friends at the Chino Valley Fire District offer the following safety tips for children, adults and motorists to help ensure a safe and happy Halloween for all.

Safety Tips for Children:

  • Purchase costumes that are made of flame retardant material. Avoid materials such as lightweight cotton fabrics that are easily ignited.
  • Make sure hemlines are short enough to prevent tripping or contact with flame.
  • Do not allow children to carry sharp sticks or other objects that could cause injury.
  • Use light-colored material and reflective tape on costumes for maximum visibility.
  • Plan a well-lit route for young children to use while trick-or-treating. Return home early.
  • Closely inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it. Discard any unwrapped treats from a stranger. If in doubt, throw it out.

Safety Tips for Adults:

  • Have non-alcoholic drinks available for guests if you have a party at your house.
  • Arrange for a designated driver for those who are drinking alcohol.
  • Take the keys from anyone that may be drinking.
  • Never serve alcohol to individuals less than 21 years of age.

Safety Tips for Motorists:

  • Be aware of children darting out between parked vehicles.
  • Do not pass other vehicles that have stopped in the roadway.
  • Be alert when driving through intersections.
  • Never assume a pedestrian approaching the roadway will yield to your vehicle.

Be sure that small children use battery operated flashlights and are under supervision at all times.

This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home smoke detectors.

The Chino Valley Fire District wishes you a safe and happy Halloween!

 

 

 

 

Walnut Valley Salutes Teachers of the Year

BY KELLI GILE

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District honored the 2013-2014 Teachers of the Year during the Salute to Teachers awards program that was held on October 15 at the Walnut High School Performing Arts Center.

The following outstanding educators were selected by their sites as Teachers of the Year:

-Jody Brown: Castle Rock Elementary

-Sherry Robertson: Chaparral Middle School

-Carol Martindale: C.J. Morris Elementary

-Scott Jones: Collegewood Elementary

-Janna Lindenberg: Diamond Bar High

-Lynn Otsu: Evergreen Elementary

-Kristin Thomas: Maple Hill Elementary

-Jodi Yim: Quail Summit Elementary

-Ann Schnoor: South Pointe Middle School

-Susan Warren: Suzanne Middle School

-Amy Smith: Vejar Elementary

-Krystin Wong: Walnut Elementary

-Jennifer Nicholls: Walnut High

-Susan Tang: Westhoff Elementary

Sherry Robertson, a Humanities and Language Arts teacher in the Design-Based Learning (DBL) program at Chaparral Middle School was recognized as the 2014 District Teacher of the Year. Sherry represented WVUSD in the Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year competition.

Congratulations to all of these outstanding educators!

 

 

Riverside: Local Man Arrested For Kidnapping

STAFF REPORTS

 

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Suspect Roberto Marcos (Photo Courtesy: SBSD)

Riverside – On Sept. 26, a 65-year old male victim came to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s (SBSD) Fontana Station to report he had been assaulted and kidnapped at his residence in Bloomington.

According to SBSD, two Hispanic male suspects confronted the victim and demanded he tell them the whereabouts of a female involved in a relationship with one of the suspects. The suspects forced the victim away from his residence and drove him to an undisclosed area of San Bernardino, where they continued to assault him and threaten him. The victim was tied up with an electrical cord and driven to a residence in Riverside. Once the suspects discovered the whereabouts of the female, the suspects released the victim but threatened to kill him if he alerted the police.

Fontana Station detectives conducted an extensive follow-up investigation and identified one of the suspects as Roberto Marcos. Surveillance was conducted at Marcos’ residence in Riverside and detectives took Marcos into custody as he attempted to drive away. Evidence related to the kidnapping was recovered from Marcos’ residence during a subsequent search warrant. Marcos is in custody at the Central Detention Center on charges of Kidnapping and Terrorist Threats. He is being held in lieu of $600,000 bail.

Detectives are still seeking information on the second suspect, an unidentified Hispanic male in his early 30s, approximately 6’0”, 200 pounds, black hair, brown eyes, bald or shaved head, and last seen wearing a blue mechanics jumpsuit, driving a maroon or burgundy, early 90s, 4-door import sedan.

 

Anyone with additional information regarding this case is asked to contact Detective Joe Parker or Sergeant Mark Martinez at the Fontana Station, at (909) 356-6767.

California Named Top 10 State for Afterschool

Staff Reports

 

California – Strong participation among students and high satisfaction with afterschool programs among parents have made California a “Top 10 State for Afterschool,” based on findings from a new household survey commissioned by the Afterschool Alliance. The 2014 edition of America After 3PM also shows that demand for afterschool programs still far exceeds supply and the number of children in California who would participate if an afterschool program were available surpasses the number of children in afterschool programs.

The America After 3PM survey included 30,000 American households and 854 in-depth interviews in California. It found that 25 percent of California students, 1,661,374 children in all, are enrolled in afterschool programs, up from 19 percent in 2009, when the survey was last conducted. But 1,247,699 California students are still without adult supervision in the afternoons. The parents of 2,435,254 California children not already in an afterschool program say they would enroll their child if a program were

available.

“California has made great progress creating afterschool opportunities for its children, and can be proud of that,” said Afterschool Alliance Executive Director, Jodi Grant. “But there’s no question that more work remains. Most parents in the state who want their child in a program can’t find one that works for them, and that needs to change. Every California family that needs an afterschool program should have access to one.”

The “Top 10 States for Afterschool,” from highest to lowest, are California, the District of Columbia, Florida, Vermont, Massachusetts, Arizona, Oregon, Nebraska, Tennessee and Hawaii.

“We have important building blocks for future progress already in place in California,” said Jeff Davis, Interim Director of the California AfterSchool Network. “The survey found that 90 percent of parents with children in afterschool programs are satisfied with the program their child attends. Also encouraging is the rock solid support for public funding of afterschool. Eighty-six percent of California parents in the survey said they support public funding for afterschool programs.”

To determine the state rankings, a composite score was calculated for all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia, and indexed against the national average. Each state’s overall score is based on afterschool program participation, afterschool programs reaching children in need, and parents’ satisfaction with key features of their child’s afterschool program.

On October 23, more than 1 million people in communities across the nation and at U.S. military installations worldwide will join the only national rally for afterschool programs. Sponsored by the Afterschool Alliance and now in its 15th

year, Lights On

Afterschool brings communities together for science fairs, fun runs, community service events, music and dance performances, open houses and other events at schools, community centers, malls, parks and recreation centers, science museums, state capitols, and other settings. Find a local Lights On Afterschool event at www.afterschoolalliance.org/LOA.cfm.

 

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

When: October 18, 24, and 25. All shows are at 7 p.m.

Where: Diamond Bar High School Theatre, 21400 E. Pathfinder Road, Diamond Bar.

Details: The Diamond Bar High School Theatre Arts Department will stage Shakespeare’s play in a contemporary setting, the love-peace movement of the late 1960s. Tickets may be purchased online at www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama (Adults $11/Students $9), or at the door (Adults $13/Students $11).

 

Howling Ball

When: Thurs., Oct. 23; 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue, Diamond Bar

Details: Adults 55 and older are invited to dress in Halloween costumes for this fun dinner/dance event. Tickets are $15 per person, including dinner and open soda bar.

Contact: For more information, call (909) 839-7068

 

“A Family Reunion To Die For”

When: Friday, Oct. 24; 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

City of West Covina’s Annual Dog Spooktacular

When: Saturday, Oct. 25, 2 to 4 p.m.

Where: Central Bark Dog Park, Del Norte Park, 1500 W. Rowland Ave., West Covina

Details: A Halloween Costume Contest for your pooch! This free event will include a pet customer contest with prizes, pet giveaways, and vendors form local pet stores. Registration is on site with the contest beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Contact: Department of Community Services, (626) 939-8864, or visit http://www.westcovina.org.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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.

 

Corona: Scary Good Fun At Crossroads Haunted Village

STAFF REPORTS

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Chambers of the Mausoleum at Crossroads Haunted Village (Photo Courtesy: Crossroads Haunted Village)

Corona – The Crossroads Haunted Village is quickly becoming one of Southern California’s top Haunted Locations. The Village is the home of three permanent Haunted Houses: The Chambers of the Mausoleum, Labyrinth of Lost Relics and The Asylum at Coffin Creek. The Crossroads Haunted Village also offers the Nightmare Harvest (haunted) Trail, and The Shady Hollow Hay Ride.Crossroads is also excited to present the returning Pandemonium Magic Show (a 30-minute Illusion Show in an outdoor theater). Also featured will be the Dark Shadow Market, with vendors selling assorted wares, as well as food and hot/cold, non-alcoholic beverages.

There are two different ways to pay for the attractions. Single attraction tickets are available for $13, or you can purchase a haunted attraction package, good for all attractions (except the Pandemonium Magic Show) at a discounted price of $33. There is also a VIP Pass to avoid the long lines, bringing the total package cost to just $49. Pandemonium Magic Show tickets are $5; and Parking is $5 (cash only).

This delightfully haunting experience takes place Friday and Saturday nights, October 10-11; 17-18; 24-25; and Thursday night, Oct. 30, and Friday, Halloween night. The hours of each haunting are from 7 p.m. to midnight – with the Pandemonium Magic Show at 8 and 9:30 p.m.

Dare to be scared at Crossroads Riverview Park, just a short distance from the Diamond Bar/Walnut and Chino areas at 14600 Baron Drive, in Corona. More information is available at http://www.crhaunts.com.

Chino Hills: Smoke Alarm Saves Chino Hills Life

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino Hills – October is Fire Prevention Month, and Cal Fire reminds us that working smoke alarms save lives. That was certainly the case when a fire broke out in a two-story home on the 15000 block of Avenida Del Rio in Chino Hills.

The Chino Valley Fire District reports that they responded to a reported structure fire at approximately 3 p.m. on Tues., Oct. 14, and found smoke emanating from the second story. Firefighters made entry into the house and initiated an aggressive interior attack. The fire was quickly brought under control and contained to the area of origin with minimal fire extension to the attic. Two bedrooms sustained smoke damage.

The cause of the fire appears to be a candle left burning on a cabinet in an upstairs hallway. The owner was home at the time of the fire, and self-evacuated prior to firefighter arrival after being alerted to the fire by a working smoke alarm in the home. This incident might have had a very different outcome if the smoke alarm was not in proper working order.

The Chino Valley Fire District states that this type of fire can be prevented by following these safety rules:

  • Always keep a burning candle within sight
  • Never burn candles on or near anything that can catch fire
  • Always keep burning candles out of the reach of children and pets
  • Never use candles as a source of heat
  • Always use an appropriate candleholder and place it on a stable, heat-resistant surface
  • Always extinguish all candles when leaving the house, room of use, or when going to bed
  • Always ensure that you have smoke alarms correctly installed and that they are in good working order

Remember, having more than one properly placed smoke alarm can significantly increase your chance of surviving a fire. Be sure to test your smoke alarms regularly. For more information on fire safety and smoke alarms, visit www.chinovalleyfire.org.
 

Pomona: Arrest of Attempted Murder Suspects

STAFF REPORTS

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Alberto’s located at 1925 W. Holt Ave., attempted murder scene. (Photo Courtesy: Yelp)

Pomona – On Oct. 4, the Pomona Police Department (PPD) investigated a gang related shooting that occurred at the Alberto’s Restaurant located at 1925 W. Holt Ave. During this incident, three of four victims were shot, including one of the suspects involved.

The suspect that had been shot was identified as Christian Miranda, 21, of Pomona, and according to the PPD, it appears that he was accidentally shot by the other suspect during the gunfire. Suspect Miranda was arrested on the night of the shooting and has been charged with four counts of attempted murder.

Through investigative leads the detectives were able to identify the primary shooter as Derek Sommer, 25, of Pomona, and were able to obtain an arrest warrant for five counts of attempted murder with a bail of $5 million.

On Mon., Oct. 13, the PPD received an anonymous tip that the suspect from the Alberto’s shooting was in the apartment complex located in the 1800 block of West Orange Grove Avenue. Patrol officers responded to this location and were able to locate and arrest Suspect Sommer without any issues.

Suspect Sommer is being charged with five counts of attempted murder with gang and weapon enhancements. Suspect Miranda is being charged with four counts of attempted murder with gang and weapon enhancements. Both Sommer and Miranda are known gang members, and Suspect Sommer is also on AB109 probation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Pomona Police Detective Bureau at (909) 620-2085. For anonymous tips, please contact Crime Stoppers (800) 222-8877 or We-Tip at (800) 782-7463. The Pomona Police Report Number is 14-111094.

Diamond Bar Seeking Veterans

STAFF REPORTS

 

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(Image Courtesy: Commerce.gov)

Diamond Bar – The City of Diamond Bar is seeking the names of veterans who are new to the community, or who have not previously been honored by the Diamond Bar City Council, so that they may be acknowledged during this year’s Veterans Recognition Ceremony.            The ceremony is taking place on Wed., Nov. 5, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Diamond Bar Center. A live patriotic concert by the award-winning South Pointe Middle School Band, and a video featuring the first-hand wartime service experiences of several Diamond Bar veterans will be a part of the observance.

Admission to the event is free, but reservations are required. Secure your spot today by calling (909) 839-7070. The Diamond Bar Center is located at 1600 Grand Avenue.

If you – or someone you know – are a veteran who meets the above criteria, please contact the City of Diamond Bar at (909) 839-7000, to be included in this ceremony of appreciation.

 

Pomona: The Closure Of Lanterman Development Center

BY K.P. SANDER

lanterman-developmental-center

(Photo Courtesy: DDS)

Pomona – In January of 2010, the Department of Development Services (DDS) announced its intention to close the Lanterman Development Center (LDC), located in the City of Pomona on the borders of Diamond Bar and Walnut. The path toward closure has been a long and complex one.

The LDC, which occupies a little over 300 acres in Los Angeles County, has been providing 24/7 residential care for individuals with severe developmental disabilities for 87 years.

LDC opened its doors in 1927 with an acute hospital unit, nine client residences, a variety of training and work sites, recreational facilities, and staff amenities, and initially served over 3,000 residents.

According to their website, the mission of the LDC has always been to provide the highest quality services and supports to people with developmental disabilities who require concentrated health care and/or training to develop skills in which to enhance their independence – developing people’s highest potentials.

Once home to a multitude of individuals with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, Down’s syndrome, autism, and other lifelong severe mental conditions, the LDC strived to provide the utmost in care according to the laws and standards of the State of California. Their core values reflected SPIRIT: Service, Professional Commitment, Initiative and Creativity, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

In 2009, the LDC had 440 residents, with approximately 12 admissions and 27 discharges per year. With more than 1,200 staff to oversee the care of individuals throughout the 192 onsite buildings, they facilitated around-the-clock care with an annual budget of nearly $116 million.

With the closure of LDC rapidly approaching, all this has quietly come to an end. In January 2010, there were less than 400 to care for, and as of Sept. 24, only 22 residents remain at the facility. Staff has been redeployed, laid off, or left through natural attrition.

The DDS has maintained that the well-being of all who live and work at Lanterman to be of the utmost concern and priority, and put procedures in place to ensure a safe and successful transition for residents from LDC.

In their summer newsletter regarding the status of the closure, the DDS reports that 322 residents of the LDC have been transitioned to the community; 85 homes for individuals moving from the LDC have been licensed in accordance with Senate Bill 856; and 47 former residents have moved into Adult Residential Facilities for Persons with Special Health Care Needs.

The DDS has made mention of the dwindling population and the condition of the aging infrastructure as contributing factors, and the impending closure leads to speculation of what will become of those 300 acres.

The LDC is scheduled to close on Dec. 31, 2014.

 

 

 

Walnut High’s Jeff Huang: A Leader On And Off Court

BY KELLI GILE

 

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Walnut High School senior, Jeff Huang, has received the 2014 Jim Staunton Champions for Character Award. A banner is on display in the school office. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Walnut High School senior basketball player, Jeff Huang, has received the 2014 Jim Staunton Champions for Character Award. Huang was among 14 exceptional students lauded by the CIF Southern Section during a ceremony at the Queen Mary in Long Beach on Sept. 29.

The award is given to student-athletes, coaches, administrators and schools who best embrace good sportsmanship and the principals of “Pursuing Victory with Honor.” A total of 500 nominations were received for the prestigious recognition.

Student winners received a trophy, banner, letterman patch, and $750 scholarship.

Huang is a standout student who has received numerous accolades on and off the court. He has a 3.98 grade point average, and currently ranks 16th in his class of 748 students. Huang was recently named a semifinalist in the national merit scholarship program among the top 1% of students in the state. As a junior, he placed 2nd in the nation in business communication during the FBLA competition. He was also selected as the 2014 Mustang of the Year.

“Jeff is sharp, bright and social. He is one of our most amazing young people,” said Principal Jeff Jordan.

The 17–year old began playing on the Varsity basketball team as a freshman.   He displays sportsmanship, character, poise, confidence and calm under pressure.

“On the court, Jeff is the first person to help a teammate up from a fall, the first one to pat somebody on the back when they do well and the first to shake hands at the end of a contest,” said Athletic Director, Jerry Person, who nominated Huang for the award.

“He serves as a model of consistency on and off the basketball court and is a leader in everything he does,” Person added.

Huang has been president of the Class Cabinet for the past three years and an Interact Club member. Two years ago, he launched the Hoops for Hope Club to offer free sports clinics for elementary and middle school students.

“These kids can gain a lot from learning basketball. It can help you out for the rest of your life,” Huang said.

“My parents and brother have definitely been my inspiration,” he continued.

Hoops for Hope mirrors Huang’s relationship with his older brother, Brandon, who has been his longtime coach and mentor.

“He always gives me advice on how to react to certain things.” Huang said those words can be golden especially after a rough game. “He’ll say it’s just one bad game; what’s important is what you learn from it,” Huang recalled.

And after every loss, his brother is there to ask what he did poorly on so they can work on it together.

“He’s so supportive of me. Sometimes after the games he’s more excited about a win or good performance than I am. I learned everything I know from him,” said Huang.

Huang was surprised to have been recognized for sportsmanship and praised fellow team members whom he admires. He says during games he is “so focused on winning.”  But afterward, he makes sure he shakes hands and shows his appreciation.

“I’ll always go thank the people who work the scoreboard. They’re the unsung heroes,” he said.

Huang hopes to attend Stanford University or University of Pennsylvania in the fall.

 

 

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 10.18.14

20141018-weeklyThe 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 Oct18WeeklyAll to access the complete Oct. 181th, 2014 issue in pdf format.

Walnut High Dedicates Athletic Building

BY KELLI GILE

 

Walnut High building dedication

Walnut High celebrated Bob Barilari during a building dedication on Oct. 1. Shown: Bob Barilari’s sister and brother-in-law, Joann and Bruce Wilson; daughters Kristin and Kimberly; Board Members Helen Hall, Larry Redinger, Cindy Ruiz, Dr. Tony Torng, and Retired Principal, Dr. Ken Gunn.

Walnut – Walnut High School paid tribute to long-time Mustang, Bob Barilari, during a building dedication on October 1. Current and retired staff members, coaches, alumni, family members, and district officials gathered for the afternoon ceremony.

Barilari served as the Boys’ Equipment Manager from 1970-2004. A plaque was unveiled dedicating the Boys’ Locker Room in his honor.

The special dedication celebrated Barilari’s legacy of relationships and friendships at the building where he spent over 70,000 hours of his life working and supporting thousands of people.

“Bobby started his legacy at Walnut High in 1970, and at that time, nobody would have realized the impact he would have on all of us 44 years later,” Principal Jeff Jordan said.

Barilari had many outstanding qualities, but the one that stands out the most was his ability to establish relationships with students, coaches, and teachers.

“Everyone knew Bob and Bob knew everything about everyone. Most of us that knew Bob would agree that he was caring, gentle, and big-hearted,” Jordan added.

Many of those friendships continued during retirement and through his battle with cancer. He passed away just one year ago, leaving a lasting impression at the school.

“Bobby didn’t realize it, but he was very inspirational to all of us,” said Jordan.

            “I don’t know if there’s a more prestigious honor than having a building dedicated to you on a school campus. There will be many, many people that will walk by and will stop and look at the plaque and start to tell stories and learn more about Bob as long as the school is here,” said Superintendent, Dr. Robert Taylor.

“Having someone like Bobby here on a daily basis made a real difference to students,” said Board President, Cindy Ruiz.

“Bobby was a special person,” said retired principal Dr. Ken Gunn. “No one’s going to walk through the doors of that locker room without thinking of him.”

            After the ceremony, several guests shared memories of their longtime friend. Girls’ Athletic Equipment Attendant, Connie Sanchez, worked with Barilari for over 20 years.

“He remembered everybody, remembered every game, the time, and history of the football team. He didn’t even need a pencil and paper. He was a wonderful, wonderful guy,” said Sanchez.

“He was always there for you,” said retired coach Anthony Gomez.

“He was so loving and caring. And he made friends wherever he went,” recalled teacher Mary Jo Gomez.

Three 1970’s alumni friends wouldn’t have missed the ceremony.  They got to know him as student-athletes and stayed in touch through the years.

“Bob was the man. And that building was his house,” recalled John McIntire.

“He meant a lot to us,” said Ron and Lynn Himes. “Bobby’s standout qualities were his genuineness and kindness,” they added.

“Bobby will never be forgotten here. His legacy will serve as a symbol of excellence that we can all strive for,” Jordan said.

Barilari was a huge USC fan.  As a tribute after the plaque unveiling, the WHS Band performed his favorite song- the Trojan Fight Song.

 

Getting Married

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

Someone told me recently that September has become the new big month for weddings. Traditionally we think of June weddings, but that doesn’t seem to be the case anymore.

From late August to the end of September, my wife and I attended four different weddings.

There was a wedding every week!

We enjoy attending weddings and sometimes I am asked to officiate.  Certainly each wedding is a special moment in the life of the families and couple involved.

One interesting pattern with all four of the weddings was that each one was held outdoors. Some were in lush garden settings, while others were in more remote, secluded settings.

I’m not sure what has happened to the traditional church wedding, but I have noticed that it is a growing trend to have weddings outdoors or in less traditional settings.

A number of different weddings are recorded in the Bible.  One of the most famous is the wedding that Jesus attended with His disciples in Cana of Galilee, found in the book of John, Chapter 2.

Another wedding is recorded in Genesis, Chapter 29.  In this passage, Jacob is tricked by his father-in-law and ends up with the wrong wife.  Jacob wanted to marry Rachel, but the father-in-law gave Jacob the veiled sister, Leah, instead!

Marriage is a special, God-given relationship.  In Genesis, Chapter 2, we read, “Therefore, a man shall leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh”.

We’ll talk more about the “leaving and cleaving” in my next article.  But let me express my congratulations to the families and couples that got married during the past month.  It looks like you are in good company since September has become the new month to get married.

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.

Serving Satan

By Michael Armijo

Many years ago, while sitting in the audience at EV Free Church in Diamond Bar at the start of a new year, pastor Mark Hopper asked a very thought provoking question: “What are you going to do to minister God’s word to others this year?”

At first, I felt that showing up to church was enough; I’ve given up time and energy to be here ‘missing out’ on the rest of life so that I can pray to God and be a good person. This was a lot for me, so why should I do more than that for God?

And then I remembered all the things I did before I found Jesus: I lied to my fellow man; I became drunk with wine and spirits; I invited others to join me at the bar to get drunk; I had lust in my eye; I was envious, dishonest; and the list goes on. I was telling people, by my actions, that I was proud to be a sinner. And I subconsciously asked them to follow me.

It was at that time I realized something. Practicing all those sins really meant that I was serving Satan. I was promoting his sinning ways, and when I did it in front of others, I was encouraging them to practice sin, too. I was looking for victims who were lost to come join me in my debauchery, depression, and lust. I didn’t mean to do it intentionally, but it was intentional because I was practicing sin, over and over again.

So what’s the difference between serving Satan and serving God? Why shouldn’t I serve God? Why not be proud to be a Christian by practicing his word, praying openly in public, and answering the phone, “Praise the Lord.” Why not invite friends to church instead of to a bar? Why not spread the word about life, love, and the pursuit of Jesus? Why not?

Today I serve God’s word. Today I practice God’s love. In 1 John 4:18 I read, “Love is Fearless.” Today I love my children without fear. Today I love my wife without fear. Today I love my past without fear. Today I love my God without fear. Today I am no longer a prisoner, because today I no longer serve Satan.

Quality Comes First At Peterson Auto Repair

BY K.P. SANDER

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

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

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

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

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

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

Located at 3900-B Valley Boulevard in the City of Walnut, Peterson Auto Repair Center is open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. They can be reached at (909) 598-3881. Mention their ad (see page 10 of this publication) and get an oil change for just $21.99 (plus tax and fees).

Walnut: 18th Annual Teddy Bear Tea

BY CECELIA YEH AND GAYLE PACHECO

 

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation is in the process of planning our 18th Annual Teddy Bear Tea, an event dedicated to recognizing the teachers and staff of the Walnut Valley Unified School District. The actual event will take place on Sat., Nov. 15, at the Royal Vista Golf Club.

A highlight of this year’s Tea will be the honoring of our 2013-2014 WVUSD Teachers and Classified Employee’s of the Year. This program recognizes educators and classified employees selected by their peers for living up to the school districts motto of “Kids First”. In addition to the recognition, this year’s Tea will feature a lovely luncheon, silent and live auctions, and a Raffle of truly delightful “Themed” Teddy Bear baskets. The goal of the event is to raise over $20,000 in funds to support “mini-grants” for the teachers and schools.

The Educational Foundation is passionate about our event this year. This is the marquee event for the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation, which, over the years, has funded over 500 grants to teachers for innovative classroom projects. Last year, a total of 51 grants were awarded which enabled our creative educators to demonstrate their gift for teaching by creating new ways to enrich student learning.  They included a variety of projects, including class sets of novels/books, math and science center supplies, field trips, classroom cameras, scanners, printers, CDs, foreign language books, cooking supplies, touch screen monitors, musical instruments, supplies for school nurse’s office, iPod Touch, materials for a vegetable garden, and library resources.

This year our Tea will feature a Souvenir Program in which you and your business may place an advertisement. Each ad page that we fill equates to one mini-grant funded. Please join the Educational Foundation in making this dream a reality. Every advertisement is substantial and will go a long way in the classrooms of our WVUSD schools.

If you have any questions about our tea or how to purchase your advertisement, please contact our donations chair, Cindy Ruiz, at (909) 973-9677 or at RuizsPeaces@msn.com. Information about the Tea may also be found on our Educational Foundation website at: www.wvef.educ.us/.

 

Walnut: City Council Recap October 8, 2014

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

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City Council naming the Walnut Valley Women’s Club and Cheryl Linnborn as Grand Marshals for the Walnut Family Festival.

Walnut – Walnut’s City council started slightly behind schedule on Oct. 8 following a study session concerning the City’s proposed Aquatic Center, but quickly convened into regular business with proclamations for the Walnut Family Festival’s Grand Marshals, National Fire Prevention Week and various resolutions.

Mayor Nancy Tragarz started the meeting with recognition for the Walnut Valley Women’s Club and member Cheryl Linnborn for their years of effort and excellence. Tragarz and the other council members thanked the members of the Women’s Club as one of the longest standing clubs in the City and Linnborn’s tireless efforts for helping the Walnut Family Festival and Christmas Tree Lighting through the years.

“Your smiling face will always be appreciated in Walnut,” Tragarz said.

Tragarz then proclaimed October as Fire Prevention Month, putting an emphasis on keeping working fire alarms in all homes.

“Change batteries in your smoke alarm,” LA County Fire Chief Mario De Fino said. “They do save lives.”

Public comments largely focused on the changes to the Brookside neighborhood, with several residents asking the Council to stop housing developments that would further diminish the City’s equestrian trails.

The council then went on to approve the minutes for the Aug. 13 study session meeting and Sept. 10 City Council and Walnut Housing Authority minutes, along with the second reading of Ordinance No. 14-04 for establishing provisions for employee housing.

The Council then moved on to its consent calendar for the approval of claims and demands in the amount of $727,862.35, the authorization of certain records pursuant to Resolution No. 01-18, an award for a CalSense irrigation controller equipment and installation bid to ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance, Inc., and an award for street light improvements on Grand Avenue and Arcadia Way bid to MSL Electric, Inc.

Tragarz pulled Item 6 on the calendar, pertaining to a contract with Morse Planning Group for an environmental impact report for the proposed Brookside Specific Plan. Community Development Director, Tom Weiner, mentioned that the item only pertains to an environmental impact report and has nothing to do with the number of houses being developed.

Council Member, Mary Su, questioned Morse Planning Group as the agency to provide the environmental impact report and asked whether or not the land developers could choose two or three other agencies to do the report.

Collette Morse, AICP from Morse Planning Group, spoke to the council members, listing her years of professionalism with handling environmental impact reports and the services she could provide to the City.

After hearing from Morse, the Council agreed to table the item for a future meeting after seeing a resume and list of qualifications from Morse before they are officially hired to provide the environmental impact report.

Following the Council’s announcements, they adjourned into closed session with plans to meet again on Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. in the City Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

Eastvale: Eleanor Roosevelt High School’s Cross-Country Team

ERHS XC team Eleanor Roosevelt High School’s Cross-Country Team attended the prestigious Stanford University Cross Country Invitational. They did an amazing job with the boys’ team placing 10th, and the girls’ team placing 4th. Great job, ERHS!

 

Walnut’s Water Park Schematic Plan

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

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City officials meeting with Aquatic Design Group Vice President, Justin Caron, as he presents a plan for the City’s proposed Aquatic Park.

Walnut – City officials met with a representative from the Aquatic Design Group on Wed., Oct. 8 for a study session event, outlining the schematic plans for the City’s proposed Aquatic Center and Amphitheater.

The Aquatic Center, planned for the 20000 block of Amar Road off Alta Sierra Road near Walnut Ranch Park, has been a long-time desire for some residents who have called for a municipal pool site in Walnut for years.

More than ten residents attended the meeting, where Aquatic Design Group Vice President, Justin Caron, outlined various ideas for what the park could host, including slides, three pools, a water spray park, locker rooms, an amphitheater, reception areas and more. Furthermore, the plan outlined 333 parking spaces to ensure space for the lots even when the pools, park and amphitheater are in use.

Mary Rooney, Community Services Director, said the flexibility of the slides and splash areas would be ideal for Walnut’s weather, with easy maintenance, fast ways to drain the excess amenities during the winter months, and the ability to refill and staff the slides and splash areas if a heat wave hits the City.

Rooney said that while the entire basis of the study session was to show a rough idea of what the park would look like, the plan’s outline is a good enough to show the public and City Council for further deliberation.

“Now you have a concept,” Rooney said. “Now you have something to walk with to show your constituents…nothing is set in stone, but we would like your feedback.”

Caron said the total estimated cost for the entire project would cost the City $19.9 million, with a breakdown of $3.6 million for site work, $532,000 for utilities, $3.8 million for construction of buildings, $600,000 for the amphitheater, $4.7 million for the pools, and an estimated $6.7 million for contractors, insurance, bonds and construction contingencies.

When pressed by councilmember Eric Ching, Caron suggested an estimated general admission fee of $5 to $7 for adult, with the possibility of cheaper rates for Walnut residents and higher fees for non-residents. However, he mentioned that the City can choose to set admission prices at whatever they wanted when the project reached its completion.

Councilmember, Tony Cartagena, said he was “very excited” at the thought of the City’s plans coming to fruition, stating that the planned amenities are extensive and impressive.

Attendees were mostly optimistic about the project, yet most of the hesitance from residents centered on parking and traffic studies.

Walnut resident, Claudine Stines, said she has been a supporter for the Aquatic Center for years, but that the latest schematics might not have sufficient parking for all the proposed features.

Walnut resident, Gary Gidcumb, said that while he liked the idea of Walnut having a recreational pool, he would like to see a traffic study done for the area to ensure a safe traffic flow. Gidcumb described the schematic plans as “too much,” and that if the City scaled back some of its ideas, it would be more likely to complete its long-time project.

“I’d like to see a pool in Walnut,” Gidcumb said. “Hopefully, before I’m 100 years old.”