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 Sept13WeeklyAll to access the complete Sept 13th, 2014 issue in pdf format.
Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News
Walnut: Mora Gets 20 Years For Murder
STAFF REPORTS
The Mora home in Walnut, scene of a gruesome murder.
Walnut – Socorro Mora, 46, who was convicted of the brutal stabbing death of her husband, as well as the family dog, has received her sentence in Pomona Superior Court. On Tues., Sept. 9, Mora was condemned to 20 years in state prison.
Socorro and George Mora had been married since 1993, but had become estranged in 2011. That September, Socorro moved out of the home on the 21600 block of Brookside Court in Walnut that the couple shared with their four children, and then later returned to ransack the house and stab and kill the family dog, Snowflake.
George Mora, 47 at the time, was awarded custody of the children and obtained a restraining order against his wife, but to no avail. Socorro returned to the home on Oct. 19, 2011, and stabbed her husband over 30 times with multiple weapons. She called police and was found in the front yard with 22 stab wounds – some life threatening – claiming self defense. George was found dead, inside the home.
The forensic investigation later showed that Socorro’s wounds were all self-inflicted, according to court documents. Socorro was initially hospitalized, and then arrested several days later.
Socorro’s trail began in Pomona on January 28, and she entered a not-guilty plea. On May 12, a jury found Socorro guilty of second-degree murder, animal cruelty, and corporal injury of a spouse. She has remained in jail since her preliminary arrest, and will continue to do so long into the future.
Birth Tourism: Is The American Dream For Sale?
By K.P. Sander
Chino Hills – You may have heard about Birth Tourism, and the so-called Maternity Motels that help to propagate it. This is a nationwide issue that has been amidst a lot of controversy in the City of Chino Hills, and well beyond.
Wikipedia describes Birth Tourism as travel to another country for the purpose of giving birth in that country. One of the main reasons for taking such measures is for the newborn to gain citizenship of that country, as well as take advantage of the destination’s healthcare system.
In the United States, our 14th Amendment to the Constitution guarantees U.S. citizenship to those born on its territory, provided the individual is subject to the jurisdiction thereof. To stop Birth Tourism, some other countries, such as France, Australia, and the United Kingdom, have made the proviso that at least one parent must be a citizen of the country, or a legal, permanent resident. The U.S. is unconditional.
The practice of Birth Tourism is popular among women in South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong, usually in elite or wealthy circles. For a fee of around $15,000, women can come to the U.S., take a holiday with sightseeing and shopping excursions, and give birth to an American citizen. But is this “playing the system” lawful? Most aspects of it are not.
The organization, Not in Chino Hills, says women are coming to the United States under false pretenses. They are learning about Birth Tourism through websites instructing them how to come here legally, but that is not necessarily the case. Some of their guidelines are downright deceitful.
The Chinese website, starbabycare.com – and many others like it – actually provides specific guidelines for giving birth in the United States. Their hyperbole suggests entering the U.S. two to three months prior to delivery and wearing relaxed and comfortable costumes in order to facilitate the U.S. Immigration process at the airport. They regale about the benefits of American citizenship, including education, political asylum, and how the baby can help others immigrate on their ticket.
The website offers special “Star Packages,” featuring luxurious accommodations (that look nothing like a hospital, but more like an upscale hotel), promising everything from the ultimate in mother/baby care with full-time nurses and exclusive chefs “preparing meals according to your tastes.” There’s even a thrice weekly shuttle for shopping trips and site seeing, as well as “major cleaning,” or maid services. They entice it to sound as if you are booking the vacation of a lifetime abroad. But who is in charge of the prenatal and neonatal care?
Local attorney, Rossanna Mitchell, who has lived in Chino Hills for 26 years – and is a spokesperson for Not in Chino Hills – says the whole system is misleading.
“Foreign women are being misled by these business operators. They are flying over here on a tourist visa – ‘to visit Disneyland’ – and told to wear baggy clothes and not let anyone know they are pregnant,” says Mitchell.
The women are seeking the beautiful hospital accommodations shown on the websites, but are arriving in “residential areas where the accommodations are very substandard, with no amenities, and home improvements that are not permitted,” Mitchell adds.
Inspections of such homes have reportedly revealed exposed wires, unsafe water heaters, rooms with illegal distances from combustible appliances, improper ventilation, and a lack of emergency exits. Generally, there are unsafe accommodations, not to mention the sewage (spillage) and sanitation issues and the excess trash that accompany the retrofitting for excessive occupants.
Mitchell continues, “You can’t turn your residence into a motel. There are legalities involved. Plus, a lot of these places are turning cash transactions to evade income taxes.”
Not in Chino Hills hosted a community meeting on Tues., Sept. 9, and Mitchell says good things were accomplished. They have circulated a petition in order to file a formal complaint against seven of the Chino Hills homes in question. They plan on sharing this at the next City Council meeting on September 23. They would also like to direct the Council to emulate what the City of Arcadia has done, and hire a detective dedicated to addressing the illegal tourism business and putting a stop to the maternity motels that are cropping up.
There has been action to help write the wrongs. State Assemblyman, Curt Hagman (R-Chino Hills), previously introduced a bill that would criminalize the operation of a hotel in a residential zone.
In January 2013, L.A. County Supervisor, Don Knabe, called on the Board of Supervisors to crack down on these maternity motels, which were becoming increasingly ubiquitous in the San Gabriel Valley.
“Across the United States, the recent trend in ‘birthing tourism’ has led to money-making schemes that put the health and safety of mothers and babies in jeopardy. We have had an increase in complaints from neighboring residents, concerned about the well-being of those in these homes, as well as the concern about the quality of life in residential neighborhoods when these facilities are allowed to operate,” said Knabe.
Several homes have been identified as alleged Maternity Motels in the City of Chino Hills: 14661 Summer Breeze; 3198 Forrest Meadow; 3257 Cottontail; 3601 Hillsdale Ranch; 2502 Paseo Del Palacio; 2857 Calle Lumina; 3733 Cibola Court; 2890 Steeple Chase Drive; and 15693 Deodoer Lane. Many homes have even undergone substantial renovations to facilitate these birthing centers.
On Dec. 15, 2012, the Chino Champion reported on an alleged Chinese maternity motel located at 15250 Woodglen Drive that underwent a court-ordered inspection. The original dwelling, built in 1974, had seven bedrooms, and 6.5 bathrooms. The inspection revealed that the same single-family house contained 17 bedrooms and 17 bathrooms. Did someone actually issue a permit to approve that construction? The City says, no.
This isn’t about denying anyone the American Dream, but is American citizenship for really for sale? As one resident put it, “This is a perversion of our legal system.”
To find out more, visit http://notinchinohills.org.
Glendale: Man Sentenced For Medicare Fraud
STAFF REPORTS
Glendale – A Glendale man was found guilty as part of a health care fraud scheme that submitted in excess of $13 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare, and caused more than $3 million of losses to the program.
The United States Attorney’s Office has issued a statement that Hovakim David Mkhitarian, 31, was sentenced on Wed., Sept. 3, to serve seven months in prison, and seven months of electronic home monitoring, for conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Mkhitarian was also ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution and a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims Fund.
Mkhitarian was found to be a mid-level participant in a sophisticated scheme that was based out of Los Angeles. Foreign students traveling in the United States on summer work visas were recruited for the fraud. They were encouraged to open bank accounts and commercial mail boxes for dozens of phantom medical clinics. After the students returned home, conspirators submitted fictitious claims to Medicare using wrongfully obtained physician billing numbers and thousands of Medicare numbers. Medicare deposited payments into the accounts opened by the foreign students, who pre-signed checks so that conspirators could withdraw the deposited funds. Money from the scheme was laundered through check cashing businesses, real estate, and gold dealers.
Two additional co-conspirators – Tigran Yusufyan and Hovakim John Mkhitarian – also plead guilty to commit health care fraud. Sentencing for Yusufyan will be held on Dec. 8, 2014, and sentencing for John Mkhitarian will be held on Feb. 23, 2015. A fourth member in this Medicare fraud scheme, Levon Gevorgyan, will be sentenced this November.
Santa Ana: O.C. Man Gets 4 Years In Federal Prison
STAFF REPORTS
Santa Ana – The owner of a Huntington Beach-based military contractor, who plead guilty to federal tax charges for failing to report millions of dollars to the Internal Revenue Service that his company received for providing services to the military at Baghdad International Airport, was sentenced on Fri., Sept. 5 to 48 months in federal prison.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Nadim “Nick” Saifan, Jr., 48, of Huntington Beach, was sentenced by United States District Judge Cormac J. Carney.
Saifan pleaded guilty in May to two counts of attempted tax evasion and specifically admitted that he substantially underreported income on his company’s 2005 corporate tax return and his personal tax return for 2006.
Saifan was the owner and operator of Defense Logistical Support & Services Corporation (DLSS), which provided services to the military and some civilian companies in Iraq. From August 2004 through October 2007, DLSS received nearly $16 million from the United States military for services in Iraq, according to court documents that state Saifan reported only a small fraction of this income on DLSS’s corporate tax returns filed with the IRS. The court documents also show that Saifan used foreign bank accounts, specifically in Lebanon, to conceal his assets and profits from DLSS Corp.
“In addition to failing to report the millions of dollars in taxable income on DLSS Corp.’s tax returns, [Saifan] also used substantial corporate funds for personal purchases and payments to himself, without claiming these distributions and payments as income to himself on his individual tax returns,” prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memo filed with the court. Saifan used corporate money to make approximately $880,000 in down payments on real estate and approximately $292,000 in payments toward vehicles that included a Ferrari and a Rolls-Royce.
Saifan has been in federal custody since Judge Carney revoked Saifan’s bond in May.
The case against Saifan was investigated by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and IRS Criminal Investigation.
Attitude Is Everything
BY NANCY STOOPS
Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
Do you see a half-filled glass as half empty or as half full? Do you tend to see what’s wrong with your life, or do you focus on what is right with your life? Would you consider yourself a negative person or a positive person? Do you wake up everyday being happy to be alive and hopeful about a new day, or do you dread getting up?
The way that you have answered the above questions is probably also the way that you live your life, and the way you view your life. I believe having a positive attitude is foundational in being a successful human being. Being positive is essential to everything good that comes with this life. I think it all starts by being positive about who you are, and about behaving in a manner that makes you proud of whom you are.
Generally, if you like who you are and are a good person, people will like you as well. Also, if you like who you are, you will want only the best for yourself. This will cause you to go to college, get a good job, find a good mate, and believe that you can make your dreams comes true.
On the other hand, being negative only prevents you from following your dreams. Being negative also causes a lot of self doubt and really gets in the way of accomplishments.
Learn to look at the good in your life and at what you have done right so far. Learn from your mistakes, but don’t focus on them, otherwise your life will feel like one big mistake. Look at all that you already have going right for you and learn to build on the positive. If you do, more positivity will come to you.
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.
Pomona: Diamond Ranch Named Top U.S. School
Photo Courtesy: Diamond Ranch High School
STAFF REPORTS
Pomona – The Daily Beast news organization has ranked Diamond Ranch High School as one of the most successful public high schools for 2014, out of thousands reviewed across the nation.
In its quest to find the top public educational institutions in America, The Daily Beast surveyed approximately 1,200 schools with above-average graduation rates of at least 85 percent. After taking academic rigor into consideration, the list was whittled down to just over 700 finalists.
According to the Pomona Unified School District, Diamond Ranch has a graduation rate of 99.3 percent and has a college-bound rate of 89.3 percent – ranked 308 out of 735.
“There are hundreds of excellent schools on this list, so for one of our schools to be recognized out of thousands across the nation for its academic prowess and rigorous program is a great feat for Pomona Unified,” said Board of Education President Frank Guzman. “I couldn’t be prouder of our teachers and staff for working so hard to make Diamond Ranch stand out as one of the best high schools in the region to best prepare our students for the 21st century.”
The criteria used to compile the list included graduation and college acceptance rates, which were weighed most heavily; academic rigor using Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes and test scores; the number of students qualifying for free or reduced lunches; and student performance on college admission exams – all indicators of how well a school prepares students for college and career.
At Diamond Ranch, nearly 100 percent of students graduate, almost 90 percent are college-bound, and students score highly on the SAT (1453) and ACT (20.7) college admission tests. The number of students enrolled in the school’s AP/IB courses is 31.6 percent and the exam pass rate on those two rigorous academic tests is 43.8 percent.
“As a principal, I am thrilled with the high academic standards our students, staff and parents have,” Diamond Ranch Principal, Suzanne Ripley, said. “We have a strong tradition of excellence at Diamond Ranch High School and it is wonderful to have major news agencies acknowledge the top high schools in the nation, and we are proud to be one of them.”
In addition to The Daily Beast’s ranking, Diamond Ranch was recognized as one of America’s most challenging high schools by the Washington Post and as one of the best high schools by U.S. News and World Report. Diamond Ranch is also a two-time California Distinguished School and successfully earned a six-year WASC accreditation term.
Other key components that make Diamond Ranch a standout school include establishing AP and Honors courses, achieving Digital High School status, having cutting-edge technology, athletic success and powerful co-curricular programs.
“Our vision at Pomona Unified is to prepare students to become first-class citizens with a world-class education, and these rankings only validate the success of that vision,” PUSD Superintendent Richard Martinez said. “Congratulations to our great teachers, parents and community for supporting our kids in achieving significant academic growth.”
WOW
BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER
Pastor Mark Hopper
The word “wow” means a variety of things to different people. It is an expression we use when we are delighted by an expected surprise. It is a word we use when we try to describe a beautiful sunset or a majestic mountain peak. I’m sure that you could add to this list with additional ways you use, “wow”.
At our church the word “WOW” is the name of our Women’s Ministry Bible Study program. The letters stand for, “Women of Worth”.
Every Wednesday morning over 100 women of all ages gather to study the Bible. In addition, classes are available in the evening for women who cannot attend in the day time. There are classes that study specific books of the Bible and there are classes on subjects that are specifically geared for women. Some of the studies being offered this fall include: Becoming the Woman of His Dreams; Choose Joy – Because Happiness Isn’t Enough; and A Study of the Book of Genesis.
Women of all ages participate in the WOW program. Some are new mothers. Others are empty-nesters. Some have a lot of background studying the Bible, and others are new to Bible study. Many of the women who attend WOW actually attend other churches in the community on Sundays.
This weekly program is available to women who want to deepen their knowledge of the Bible and strengthen their friendships with other women. WOW classes begin on Wed., Sept. 10, at 9 a.m. Child care is available for nursery and preschool children.
For more information, please visit our website at www.efreedb.org, or contact our Women’s Ministry Director, Nancy Salvato, at our church office, at (909) 594-7604.
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.
Straight Talk With Danice
By DANICE AKIYOSHI N.D.
Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:
Dr. Danice Akiyoshi
My best friend is in a relationship with a woman who seems to be controlling every move he makes. Even his opinions on worldly matters have drastically changed to match hers. He looks unhappy, but he never complains. I hate seeing him this way so I don’t socialize much with them anymore. I can tell my friend is hurt and puzzled when we see each other at business events. Should I be honest about my feelings?
-Jason
Dear Jason:
Yes, be honest. Tell him your concerns. Make sure he knows he can count on you in times of crisis, but that you’re not interested in casual socializing with them as a couple. Do not put her down in any way, this is unnecessary. Be clear that you would like to see him whenever he can break away. Do your best to keep in touch and try to show up for his major life events.
-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.
Diamond Bar: Maple Hill Celebrates School Re-Opening
Maple Hill Elementary staff celebrates at ribbon cutting. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
By KELLI GILE
Diamond Bar – On Sept. 3, Walnut Valley Unified School District threw a party to celebrate the completion of the modernization at Maple Hill Elementary.
“Thank you all for coming out and supporting us today on our very special, special day. It means so much to have so many people here that care about Maple Hill,” said Principal Nancy Stingley.
About 200 friends of the school including community members, parents, students, current and former staff, district and local officials attended the grand re-opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony.
“Maple Hill would not be the school that it is today without your support,” Stingley added. She recalled when staff members moved into a village of 29 portables for construction that began in June of 2013.
The school family stuck together, worked hard learning new Common Core curriculum, implemented a positive behavior intervention program, and proudly earned a 2014 California Distinguished School Award.
The remodeled campus officially opened its doors on August 18, on the first day of the 2014-2015 school year.
“This has been a fantastic journey for us. Today is a day of celebration and of new beginnings,” Stingley said at the ceremony.
Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor thanked community members for their support of the construction projects throughout the district.
“It takes so many people to see a project through – especially to its fruition like we have here at Maple Hill. For the kids in this community, I’m so glad you get to go to this beautiful school,” Taylor said.
“Now our Maple Hill students will have a physical environment that will match the learning environment, and they so deserve it!” Board President Cindy Ruiz added.
“We’ve been given an extraordinary gift. This building – our home – has been transformed, and we are so grateful,” said fourth grade teacher Tami Barry.
Teachers led small groups on a tour of their new school after the ribbon cutting.
New Bicycle Safety Law
CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL
Sacramento – With children heading back to school, motorists should expect to see more children riding to and from school on
(photo courtesy: expatica.com)
their bicycles. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) would like to remind the public that on Sept. 16, 2014, a new law affecting motorists and bicyclists takes effect. According to the law, a driver must allow three feet of distance when overtaking or passing a bicyclist. If three feet is not available, a driver must then slow to a safe speed and pass when no danger is present.
“Motorists are reminded to pay close attention as the school year approaches and exercise caution when they see bicyclists on the road,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Be sure to move over or slow down to pass when you see a bicyclist on the road and help keep our roadways a safer place.”
According to data from the Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, in 2012, there were 153 bicyclists killed in California, which reflects a 7 percent increase from 2011. Those deaths accounted for 5 percent of the total collision fatalities in California. “As important as it is for vehicles to be mindful of our bicyclists, those who ride must exercise safe practices and ride smart,” added Commissioner Farrow. “With both drivers and bicyclists doing their part, we can help reduce the number of tragedies involving bicyclists.”
The danger surrounding motor vehicle traffic is just one aspect of a child’s safe passage to and from school. According to Safekids.org, more children ages 5 to 14 are seen in emergency rooms for injuries related to bicycling than any other sport. Bicycle helmets, which are required by law for children under 18 years of age in California, can reduce the risk of severe brain injuries by 88 percent – yet only 45 percent of children 14 and under usually wear them.
The CHP joins with Safekids.org in offering the following traffic safety tips for bicyclists:
- “Use your head, wear a helmet.” It is the single most effective safety device available to reduce head injuries and deaths from bicycle crashes.
- Tell your children to ride on the right side of the road with traffic, not against it. Stay as far to the right as possible.
- Use appropriate hand signals and obey traffic signals, stopping at all stop signs and stoplights. Teach your children to make eye contact with drivers. Bicyclists should make sure drivers are paying attention and are going to stop before they cross the street.
- When riding at dusk, dawn, or in the evening, be bright and use lights – and make sure your bike has reflectors as well. It is also smart to wear clothes and accessories that have retro-reflective materials to improve bicyclist visibility to motorists.
- Actively supervise children until you are comfortable that they are responsible to ride on their own.
The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to the people of California.
San Gabriel Valley: Community Events
Staff Reports
UPCOMING EVENTS:
Mariachi Divas Join Chino’s Mexican Independence Day Celebration
When: Friday, September 12, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
Where: City Hall Lawn, 13220 Central Avenue, Chino
Details: The City of Chino invites the public to the Mexican Independence Day Community Celebration. The Grammy-award winning Mariachi Divas will entertain the crowd; food booths, dance performances, children’s activities, and “El Grito,” an annual tradition commemorating the cry that led to the start of the Mexican Independence will all add to the fun.
Contact: Jack Morgan, (909) 334-3338; or visit www.cityofchino.org/communityservices.
Summit on Today’s Marriage and Family Life
When: September 12-14, 2014
Where: St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Church, Walnut
Details: The changing world poses some great challenges to families of today in the context of evangelization. The church is responding to the challenge by providing a summit.
Contact: Honchee Natividad at honcheen@hotmail.com, or call the parish office at (909) 595-9545. RSVP by Sept. 1.
Flapjack Fundraiser
When: Saturday, Sept. 13; 8 to 10 a.m.
Where: Applebee’s, in Walnut
Details: A benefit for the Student Assistance Fund sponsored by Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School in Diamond Bar to help families that are struggling to have their children attend Mt. Calvary. Tickets are $10, and include a great breakfast of pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, country fries, coffee and juice.
Contact: For tickets and more information, call Sandy Hardin, (909) 595-0753.
Diamond Bar Library HUGE BOOK Sale
When: Saturday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Diamond Bar Library Windmill Room, 21800 Copley Drive
Details: There will be a members-only preview from 9 to 10 a.m., with a membership drive between 8:30 and 9 a.m. There will be thousands of desirable, high-quality books at rock-bottom prices. All proceeds directly benefit the library.
Contact: (909) 396-9954
Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Finale featuring the Simpsons!
When: Saturday, Sept. 13
Where: Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).
Details: Journey from the animated Springfield Bowl to the Hollywood Bowl for this unprecedented event as the famous orchestra accompanies your favorite scenes from the Simpsons on the big screen. Seats are located in Section F2, Rows 5, 6, and 7. The fee is $55 per person, appropriate for all ages.
Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.
Prescription Drug Take-Back Event
When: September 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Upland Police Department, 1499 W. 13th Street, Upland
Details: The Upland Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public its ninth opportunity in four years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs (the DEA cannot accept liquids or needles or sharps, only pills or patches). The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. Last April, Americans turned in over 780,000 pounds of prescription drugs at nearly authorized 6,100 sites.
Wheel Food Fest
When: 1st Friday of the month through October 3; 5 to 8:30 p.m.
Where: Walnut Valley Unified School District, 880 S. Lemon Avenue, in Walnut.
Details: The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation is sponsoring a family fun night with a variety of gourmet food trucks. This is a delicious way to support your students, schools and community. There are no entry fees, and there is plenty of free parking. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy! Food trucks may include: The Slummin’ Gourmet, Macho Nacho, Rolling Sushi, Cup Cakery, Crepes Bonaparte, White Rabbit, and Dos Chinos. Please leave your pets at home, and do not bring alcohol, outside food or drinks.
City of Hope Blood Drive
When: Thurs., Oct. 16, 12:45 to 7 p.m.
Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, Gymnasium, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar.
Contact: Call (909) 861-2740 for appointments, and be sure to bring your ID to the event.
Free Intervention Information Sessions
When: Third Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m.
Where: Charter Oak Hospital, 1161 E. Covina Blvd., Covina
Details: Free information sessions about the intervention process, a powerful tool to combat alcoholism and addition. Open to the public, space is limited and reservations are recommended.
Contact: Aurora Charter Oak Hospital, (626) 859-5269, or visit http://www.charteroakhospital.com.
Free ESL and Citizenship Classes
When: Monday through Thursday, 9 to 11 a.m.; or Monday through Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: 2100 Lerona Avenue, Rowland Heights
Details: Rowland Adult & Community Education is now offering free English as a Second Language and Citizenship courses to adult students this summer due to a grant received from the Majestic Reality Foundation in the City of Industry.
Contact: Call (626) 965-5975, or visit http://race.rowland.k12.ca.us.
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
West Covina Freeway Construction Underway
STAFF REPORTS
Just over four miles of carpool lanes are being built on the I-10 freeway. (Photo Courtesy: California Department of Transportation)
SGV – The Interstate 10 Freeway always seems to be jam-packed, and one area in particular will see more congestion before it gets better…but it will hopefully be worth the wait.
Construction of a High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV or carpool) lane, as well as the widening of bridges and ramp realignments along the I-10 in both directions between Puente Avenue and Citrus Street in the areas of West Covina and Baldwin Park, is now underway. This roadway carries a substantial amount of traffic, and the anticipated 4.1 miles of carpool lane is designed to add more capacity and improve traffic flow.
According to the California Department of Transportation, this is the second of three projects that will ultimately provide one continuous HOV lane from downtown Los Angeles to San Bernardino County.
This $193 million project will not only increase capacity, but will also help to reduce congestion by encouraging carpooling, thereby reducing energy consumption and helping to improve air quality. Sound walls will also be constructed to help mitigate traffic noise at various locations, which will help improve the quality of life for residents currently affected.
Construction, which began in June, is currently active near West Covina Parkway and Azusa Avenue. This project is scheduled for completion in the spring of 2019. Visit http://www.dot.ca.gov for updates of any roadway closures during construction.
Industry: Sex Offender Compliance Op Nets 3
STAFF REPORTS
Industry – The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Industry Station has issued a report that should give local residents some reassurance. On Fri., Aug. 29, the Special Victims Bureau – Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement Team (SAFE Team), in collaboration with the California Department of Corrections Rehabilitation and the United States Marshal Service, executed a sex offender home compliance and parole operation in the area under the Industry station’s jurisdiction.
The reported stated that 16 sexual registrants were contacted, and in order to ensure compliance their homes and computers were searched to make certain they were following the terms of their parole. Three of these registrants were found to be in violation, and they were arrested and booked at the Industry station.
The SAFE Team identifies, monitors, arrests and assists in the prosecution of habitual sexual offenders who violate the terms and conditions of their probation or parole, or who fail to comply with the registration requirements of the California Penal Code, or who commit new sexual assault offenses through proactive investigations and surveillances. This program leads to the arrest of habitual sexual offenders. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department currently monitors approximately 3,582 registered sex offenders.
The Weekly News Complete Edition 09.06.14
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 Sept6WeeklyAll to access the complete Sept 6th issue in pdf format.
Walnut Valley Water District Adopts Mandatory Conservation
WALNUT VALLEY WATER DISTRICT
Lake Oroville reservoir in Northern California, seen here in early 2014, is at 30% of capacity. (Photo Courtesy: California Department of Water Resources)
Walnut – The Walnut Valley Water District Board of Directors voted at their August 18 meeting to adopt a Stage 1 Water Supply Shortage. This action comes in response to the state’s ongoing drought and the recently enacted emergency regulations by the State Water Resources Control Board establishing statewide mandatory water use restrictions. These enhanced restrictions become effective August 28. Stage 1 restrictions are intended to further curtail outdoor water use which accounts for more than one half of a typical family’s monthly usage.
Adoption of the mandatory conservation measures are a result of the serious statewide drought impacting the entire State of California. Governor Jerry Brown declared a drought-related ‘State of Emergency’ in January of 2014. Since that time, California has experienced one of the driest snowpack and fourth lowest runoff in 100 years. As a result, mandatory water conservation measures are being implemented throughout the state. Some of the conservation measures in the Stage 1 include:
Limits on Watering Hours: watering your lawn or landscaping is prohibited between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M.
- Obligation to Fix Leaks, Breaks, or Malfunctions: All leaks, breaks, or other malfunctions in the water user’s plumbing or distribution system must be repaired within five (5) days.
- No Excessive Water Flow or Runoff: Watering any landscaped area cannot cause excessive water flow or runoff onto the sidewalk or street.
- No Washing Down Hard or Paved Surfaces: Washing down hard or paved surfaces, such as sidewalks or driveways, is prohibited.
- Limits on Washing Vehicles: Using a hose to wash a vehicle is prohibited, except by use of a hand-held hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle.
- Drinking Water Served Upon Request Only: Eating or drinking establishments, including but not limited to a restaurant, hotel, cafe, cafeteria, bar, or other public places, will not provide drinking water to any person unless expressly requested.
- Option to Decline Daily Linen Services at Commercial Lodging Establishments: Hotels, motels, and other commercial lodging establishments are encouraged to provide customers the option of not having towels and linen laundered daily.
Lake Oroville reservoir, seen here in 2011 (top) and in 2014 (bottom). The reservoir is one of the largest in California. (Photo Courtesy: California Department of Water Resources)
In 2009, the District adopted Ordinance No. 06-09-07, An Ordinance of the WVWD to Establish Water Use Efficiency Requirements and Water Supply Shortage Stages, to assist in managing our water supply. The ordinance has four stages, each with more progressively restrictive uses of water. The stages are enacted based on both short- and long-term water supplies and Board approval. WVWD for many years has encouraged voluntary conservation by keeping in effect since 2009 “Permanent Water Use Efficiency Requirements” that contained very similar restrictions as Stage 1 in preventing water waste.
When asked about the Board decision to adopt the mandatory water-saving measures, Board President, Barbara Carrera, noted, “Our District customers have done an excellent job using water wisely over the years. In light of the state’s current drought situation and the State Board’s recent adoption of the emergency conservation regulations, we must all take the extra step to save even more.” President Carrera went on to state that, “The District’s Board of Directors genuinely appreciates the efforts of all our customers to work together and save water wherever possible. Everyone working together to save water can make a very big difference in conserving our precious water supplies.”
The District’s customers for many years have reduced local water usage — we are asking for everyone to do a little more.
For questions about the new mandatory conservation measures or to learn more ways to save water, visit the District’s website at wvwd.com, or call customer service at (909) 595-1268.
Walnut Valley: Superintendent Takes ALS Ice Bucket Challenge
BY KELLI GILE
Dr. Bob Taylor, superintendent of the Walnut Valley Unified School District took the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge on August 22. See the video at http://www.wvusd.k12.ca.us. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Walnut – Dr. Bob Taylor, Superintendent of the Walnut Valley Unified School District, accepted the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge on Fri., Aug. 22.
The Ice Bucket Challenge phenomenon is spreading ALS awareness across the nation. People are taking the challenge and making a donation to help create a world without ALS. To date, ice bucket donations have reached $53.3 million.
The district leader was challenged by Jeff Jordan, Principal at Walnut High School, who took the challenge during football practice on August 21.
Taylor announced the surprise event at the end of a morning staff meeting, and about 50 employees gathered outside the District Office to cheer in support. Before getting soaked, he nominated his three assistant superintendents – Dr. Matt Witmer, Dr. Michelle Harold, and Jeanette Ullrich. They had 24 hours to accept the challenge.
Grounds Workers, Paul Moravec and Eric Sims, were chosen to pour several gallons of icy water on their boss.
“We were a little nervous,” they both admitted.
“I just didn’t want to drop it [the plastic tub] on his head!” Moravec added.
Help fight ALS and take the #IceBucketChallenge. For more information about the ALS Association or to make a donation, please visitwww.alsa.org.
Great Things Are Possible If You Believe In Yourself
BY NANCY STOOPS
Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
What is it that seems to set you apart from somebody you consider a successful human being? Do you find yourself always doubting your capabilities? Are you really willing to always settle for less than you really deserve? Don’t you understand that you have wings and that you really could fly if you just believed in who you are and how capable you are?
Please trust me when I tell you that there are no limits except the ones that are self imposed. You can be and have whatever you desire if you set goals and just keep moving toward them. If you do this, after a while you will be who you want to be and have the wonderful life that you are so very deserving of.
Right now this very moment make a promise to yourself that you refuse to settle anymore. Today is the day that you will change that mindset that allows you to always be less and have less of a life than you desire. Today is the day that you will discover your wings and each and every day from now on you will discover how to fly.
I want you to become the author of your very own fabulous script for your life. Tomorrow is much too long to wait because all you really have is today. Stop deceiving yourself and start being somebody you are proud of. I know if you tell yourself the truth you will grow into somebody you really want to be.
I have witnessed the transformation of many and have had the honor of helping in the process as well. Just know that I have faith in you and I know you can grow into who you are intended to be.
Learning Your Letters
By Pastor Mark Hopper
Pastor Mark Hopper
Some of our grandchildren have been in the area for a few weeks and we’ve really enjoyed our time with them.
One day, we went down to the beach and had a fun day swimming in the ocean and playing in the sand. They loved digging holes and building castles. We also drew pictures and shapes in the wet sand. They loved to watch the waves come in and erase what we had drawn.
At one point, I started writing the letters of the alphabet in the sand with the flat side of a small plastic shovel. I was amazed to hear my little granddaughter reciting the name of each letter as I drew them.
Now, I know that every parent and every grandparent thinks that their kids are exceptionally smart. But I think that my grandkids are even smarter! I was so amazed that a child so young already knew every letter by name. Maybe this is normal, but I doubt it. Who would have thought that a 2-year old would know and recognize every letter in the alphabet?
I’m sure that her parents should get much of the credit. I know they read books and stories every night before bed. And, I know that kids learn a lot of educational things by watching TV and children’s DVDs, too.
I don’t know how old your children or grandchildren are, but let me encourage you to start reading to them and helping them discover the joy of learning their letters. Letters become words and words become stories. Stories become books and books become adventures.
There are few gifts that you can give to your children and grandchildren that are more valuable than the gift of reading. Don’t wait for others to do the job for you. Start today to help those little ones learn those letters.
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.
It’s Been Five Years Without You
BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL
WARNING: Tissues are required.
A Letter To My Mom: It’s been five years since we lost you. Five long and sad years in which I haven’t heard your voice, felt your hug and smelled your scent. It’s been five years since you looked in my eyes; five years since I held your hand; five years since I brushed your hair; and five years since I felt your heart beat for the last time.
It’s been five years since we laid you to your final rest, with roses and butterflies gently landing on you as we lowered you into the ground. Five years since we watched each shovel of soil cover you farther away from us. It’s been five years since we struggled to come up with the perfect gravestone, trying to sum up such a wonderful life in 120 characters or less.
It’s been five years since I whispered in your ear, “You can go, I’ll take care of them.” Five years since I took your place dancing with your son in what should have been your dance. It’s been five years since my measure of time didn’t always include, “before my mom died.” It’s been five years since our world stood still, but the people around us didn’t seem to understand and went on living.
It’s been five years since I’ve really taken a deep breath and not felt the little sting of that hollow part of my heart. It’s been five years.
But…it’s been three years since your fourth grandson came along and brightened our world with his smile. It’s been one year since your fifth grandson came along and did the same. I look at my two newest nephews and I see you there in their smiles, their silly laughs and their eyes. I see you in the eyes of Isaiah, and remember all the fun you had with me when I was a teenager and drove you crazy. I hear you in the way Andrew always messes up his words, just like you used to do. And I feel you in the long, far-off gazes that Nicholas gives out of nowhere. I know you are there with him, guiding him along.
So although it’s been five years without you, it really hasn’t. You may not be physically here anymore, but you are still here. You are here in every smile on the face of your five grandsons. You are here with your son as he guides his young boys and shares his stories of you. You are there every time I look in the mirror and your eyes look back at me. So even though it’s been five years since we lost you, we’re all doing okay.
September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Find out about the signs and symptoms by visiting http://www.ovariancancer.org
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