Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News

Real Estate: To Buy or Not to Buy?

By Nef Cortez

I wrote in last week’s article regarding the continuing increase in the median sales price of homes across the US, as well as locally here in Diamond Bar and Chino Hills. In retrospect, the investor who purchased a single family home in one of these two cities in 2012 appears to be a “Genius” investor! The value of the investment product has increased or appreciated at nominal value a whopping 46-49% in just 5 years.  If that Buyer paid all cash for a median priced home of $441,000, his or her return on investment has rewarded the investor at an approximately 9% annual return, Cash on Cash!  That property would now be worth $626,000. A similar investment in a savings account over the last 5 years would have averaged a return of less than 2% annually. If the investor purchased that same median priced single family residence at $441,000 in 2012, and instead of paying Cash, decided to purchase with a 25% down payment of $110,250, the home would similarly be worth $626,000. It would have leveraged the Cash investment four-fold, giving the investor a Cash on Cash return of an incredible 168%-an average annual return of 33.6%! Wow…now that is the way to invest!

This article was written by Nef Cortez, a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca BRE # 00560181 since 1976. He can be reached via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com.  Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.

 

A Perfect Mother’s Day in Three Simple Steps

By StatePoint
It’s the things that she seems to do so effortlessly that make a Mom special: the encouraging words at the perfect time, the small affectionate gesture when you need it most, the thoughtful advice that only she could provide.
This Mother’s Day, follow these three simple steps to show Mom how much you love her and appreciate all that she does.
1. Share A Kind Word. She is the one who always reminded you to say “thank you” – this Mother’s Day, show her you were listening and put pen to paper and capture a few words from the heart. Whether it’s a beautiful card or a simple heartfelt letter, your mother will treasure the personalized sentiment.
2. Find a Gift as Meaningful as it is Beautiful. Jewelry is a popular way to express love and admiration – making it an ideal Mother’s Day gift. If you’re not sure where to start, a trusted jeweler can help you find something Mom is sure to treasure. For example, at Jared the Galleria of Jewelry, experts take the time to work with each customer to select the right piece for every occasion and recipient.
This Mother’s Day you can celebrate the most important milestones of the past year with a piece of jewelry, such as one from the Brilliant Moments collection featuring hand-selected diamonds; show your appreciation for her impeccable style with a gift from the popular Le Vian collection, which features rare and exotic diamonds and gems from around the world; or, for an even more personalized gift, check out the Pandora collection where you can create a unique piece or gift set.
“It was such a pleasant surprise, and caught me completely off guard in the best way possible. It made Mother’s Day truly unforgettable,” said Daisy Teh of “The It Mom” after receiving a diamond necklace from Jared’s Brilliant Moments collection, “Having this necklace, with all that it means in our lives, is something that will always remind me of all the love that surrounds us.”
For some additional gifting inspiration, visit the Jared, Mother’s Day gift guide.
3. Remember the Little Things. Treat mom to a day of relaxation – whether that means cooking her favorite meal or checking a few chores off her to-do list yourself. Mom is always there to do the little things for us, so on her day, do those little things for her.
With a few words from the heart, a meaningful gift and a small gesture of kindness and appreciation you can give her the Mother’s Day she deserves.

4 Chino Residents, 1 CH Resident Arrested For Attempted Burglary

By Michael Armijo

Chino Hills – Five area residents were arrested this week by Chino Hills Police when they were caught attempting to burglarize a home and apprehended at gunpoint.

Garret Rogers, 19, Ruben Medivil, 19, and Roberto Alonso Salmon, 18, all of Chino, Joaquin Leonardo Salmon Garcia, 20 from Chino Hills, and a 17 year-old male juvenile from Chino were arrested Monday May 1st, around 1 pm in the afternoon, after a homeowner caught them inside his residence. Three suspects were apprehended at the scene while two others ran away but were subsequently caught a short distance away by Chino Hills PD.

On Monday, May 1, 2017 at 1:05 p.m. the Zhang family was inside their home on the 13000 block of Gemstone Court when they heard noises on the upstairs balcony of their home. The suspects then attempted to enter the home through an upstairs door. Home owner Yan Zhang retrieved a handgun and confronted the suspects. Zhang held the suspects at gunpoint while a neighbor called 911, and his wife kept the children safe.
Two of the suspects fled, but were captured nearby when Deputy Eileen Smith arrived on scene. Many of the surrounding neighbors assisted by providing information to the responding deputies. All five suspects were taken into custody. Four of the suspects were booked into the West Valley Detention Center, and the juvenile suspect was cited and released to his parents.
 The family spoke little English. Their neighbor told CBS2’s Crystal Cruz what happened Monday afternoon when the family heard unwanted guests in their back yard.

“They came home from supermarket, and they noticed somebody jump the fence and try to pry in. And he panicked. He had a gun. So he pulled out and do a warning shot,” neighbor Tony Tran said to CBS2 reporter Crystal Cruz.

Neighbors wondered why the burglars picked a home with bars on the windows and described as Fort Knox of the cul-de-sac.

“If that’s what he felt he needed to do, that’s what he needed to do. Because you don’t know. You walk in and someone’s in your house. You don’t know if they’re going to kill you.” neighbor Lapedtra Singleton said to the CBS2 reporter Crystal Cruz.

Last month, at another house nearby, the homeowner was sleeping when he said two people with their faces covered tried unsuccessfully to break into his place through the window and left in a white car, CBS2 Cruz reported.

Anyone with additional information reference this incident is urged to call the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. And refer to case #221701495 

Woman Charged With Murder In DUI Crash That Killed Child

By SBSD

 

SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.  – A 34-year-old Redlands woman has been charged with murder and multiple counts in connection with a DUI crash in San Bernardino that killed 3-year-old Michael Flores.

Crystal Fuentes was arrested Thursday after striking and killing the child who was crossing Base Line Street in a crosswalk with his family.

“This is every parent’s worst nightmare, to lose a child,” District Attorney Mike Ramos said. “When I heard about the deadly crash that took the life of 3-year-old Michael Flores, my heart broke for him and his family.”

Fuentes is charged with one count of Murder, one count of Vehicular Manslaughter While Intoxicated, one count of Driving While Under the Influence of Alcohol – Prior Convictions, one count of Driving with a .08% Blood Alcohol Content – Prior Convictions, and one count of Driving When Privilege Suspended for Prior DUI Conviction.

Arraignment details are still pending (Case # FSB17001651). When arraignment information becomes available, it will be posted on the San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Twitter account (@sbcountyda). No further information will be released at this time.

Straight Talk With Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Danice Akiyoshi,

My best friend has made a mess of her life and is in an alcohol rehab program.  I know she is having a hard time having a suspended license so I make a lot of time to spend with her and take her grocery shopping on the weekends and out to eat. She takes the train to work.  I notice that if I’m not available she hints that she’s lonely and needy and feels afraid that she’s probably going to drink and mess up her classes and sobriety.  She’s been doing real well so I hate for that to happen, but sometimes I’m busy with other things or people.  I feel guilty when I can’t help her.  I wish she had other people to count on besides me but she says everyone lets her down.  I don’t want to hurt her feelings either while she’s trying to stay sober but I can’t always be there for her.  I need advice.

B.A.S.

  

Dear B.A.S.

Why do you have the impression that your friend’s sobriety and success with alcohol rehab classes is in your hands or that it is somehow your responsibility for her to be successful?  Your friend sounds like she enjoys the role of being a victim while you take her sobriety seriously and contribute your personal time to her success.  She shows her appreciation by manipulating you into feeling like you’re not doing enough when you need a break from her and the constant tasking you do for her. Your kindness should not result in you feeling guilty.  This is a very bad set up for you.  Your friend is a manipulator.  She has no chance of having a healthy functional life until she takes responsibility for herself.  Do not assist her in staying weak.  Your type of assistance is very kind, but it will not get the job done.  She has to want this for herself.  Stop enabling her so she can tap into her own inner resources.  Of course you can still be helpful and friendly, but stop over functioning for your friend.  You cheat her out of finding her own personal strength.  People who are trying to stay sober need a strong and familiar relationship with their own personal power.  Explain to her that you can see that your efforts have not been totally helpful and ask her seek professional guidance when she’s feeling weak and needy.   Make it clear that you are not the right person for this job.

Good luck.

Danice Akiyoshi ND

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

Sheriff Department Recognizes Volunteers

Photo courtesy: LA SD
DCS member Mark Coon, Explorer Isaiah Garcia, Reserve Deputy Victor Hassan, Volunteers Sebe Garton, Fernando Prado, Lois Van Akin, and Larry Wang were recognized as Volunteers of the Year for their respective areas.

By Michael Armijo

Diamond Bar, CA – Last week the Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club hosted their 27th Annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner at the Diamond Bar Country Club, to a crowded room of over 105 guests. The night honored volunteers who have given their time and energy to assisting the department on a volunteer basis.

DCS member Mark Coon, Explorer Isaiah Garcia, Reserve Deputy Victor Hassan, Volunteers Sebe Garton, Fernando Prado, Lois Van Akin, and Larry Wang were recognized as Volunteers of the Year for their respective areas. Congressman Ed Royce, representatives from the State Senate and Assembly in Sacramento, the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, and members of the Diamond Bar and Walnut City Councils attended to show their appreciation.

“Our station has one of the finest volunteer programs in LA County,” said Captain Alfred Reyes. “We have over 100 volunteers who proudly serve our communities.”

The recognition dinner, which is funded by the Sheriff Booster club via donations to their non-profit 501 c 3 organization, serves two purposes: first to acknowledge the countless hours the Disaster Communication Services (DCS) members, Deputy Explorers, Reserve Deputies, and Volunteers donate to the Station during the year. The second purpose was to recognize specific individuals from each program who went above and beyond in their service to the station and the community.

“Each year we hold an annual golf tournament to raise funds for this event among other needs the department needs that are not on the budget from the county,” said Sheriff Booster President Gil Rivera of www.SellYourCasa.com. “They give generously of their time to help in many areas including patrol and vacation home checks, in addition to thousands of hours at sobriety check points and school traiffic assistance.”

If you’dlike to support their cause please call Gil RIvera at 909.967.4525 or Sgt. Saldecke at 909.595.2264.

Learn Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at Sampa


Walnut– Right here in Walnut, people are discovering the secrets of one of the world’s most proven and effective ground-fighting and self-defense martial art: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu. Sampa Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Academy not only teaches Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, but kickboxing and fitness boot camp classes are also available for adults and kids. However, their main focus is developing values, self-control, and self-discipline.

Owner and teacher, Renato Migliaccio, goes by “Professor Renato” at Sampa.  With over 22 years in teaching and over 30 years of experience in this field, he encourages to spread the art of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu to as many people as possible in order to affect their lives and their community in a positive way.

In addition, Sampa’s culture is different than other martial arts places. “Every place caters to what they like the most, but here we are like families, training together, and doing effective martial arts in a safe environment,” said Migliaccio.

The passion that Professor Renato has for this field has encouraged him to continue his education so he can teach and help others. He has obtained a bachelor’s degree in physical education, many certifications in the field and industry, 4th degree black belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu and 3rd in Judo, and he is a former MMA pro fighter.

When asked if there was anything he would like his customers to know, he states, “Yes, that many people underestimate martial arts due to the many martial arts studios that are too profit oriented. But the essence of martial arts is the priority here: education and self-discipline.”

Sampa Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu is currently offering a $199 Exclusive Special for the months of June, July & Aug. for Jiu-Jitsu, Kickboxing & Fitness. You can visit Sampa Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu at 18856 Amar Road Suite 4 in Walnut. They are located between Francesca Dr. and Amber Valley cross streets. You may also call them at (626) 238-3309. Further information is available on their website at http://www.sampabrazilianjiujitsu.com.

The End of the School Year is Near

By Nancy Stoops

 Another school is almost over and every student can’t wait until summer.  Finals still must be studied for and taken.  Help your student do their absolute very best up until the very last test is taken, paper is turned in and last day has come and gone.  Help remind your student that they still can help raise that grade.   I know they are burnt out and feeling restless but keep encouraging them to keep doing their best until the end.

As school draws to an end help them think about what they would like to do with their summer.  I know many students will be attending summer school to get caught up or to get ahead.  If you have a high school student this might be a good summer to start looking at colleges and maybe even visiting a few.  It’s never too early to help somebody plan their future.  Education has always been very big in our household.  My son is 35 years old and has his Doctorate degree and I think about how hard he has worked over the years.

I think teaching our child to want to do well in school comes a certain mindset that is instilled by effective parenting.  Helping our children understand that it’s not okay to get lazy or to quit but that we must work hard right up until the end can be taught.  Learning and getting a really good education can take us very far in this world and makes us feel good about who we are in this world. So remind your student that they still have finals, papers and projects to complete.  Let them know how good they will feel if they can hang in there and work hard right up until the end.  Talk about some of the fun things you have planned for them this summer to help encourage them to hang in there and do their best!!!!!

 

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens.  For more information about any of these services feel free to page her at (909).  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

Pineapple Pork Chops

with Snap Peas and Jasmine Rice

 

By Hello Fresh

 

Cooking Time: 35 mins.

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 580 Calories

Ingredients:

 

  • Sugar Snap Peas- 12 oz
  • Shallot- 1
  • Lime- 2
  • Cilantro- ¼ oz
  • Pineapple- 2 Packs
  • Jasmine Rice- 1 Cup
  • Pork Chops- 24 oz
  • Honey- 4 tsp

 

 

  1. Prep ingredients. Wash and dry all produce. Bring ¾ cup water and a large pinch of salt to a boil in a small pot. Trim any tough ends from snap peas. Peel, halve, and mince shallot. Cut lime in half. Finely chop cilantro. Drain pineapple, reserving juice, and finely chop flesh.

 

  1. COOK RICE Once water is boiling, add rice to pot. Cover, lower heat, and reduce to a simmer. Cook until tender, 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and keep covered until meal is ready

 

3 MAKE SALSA In a medium bowl, combine pineapple, 2 tsp shallot, half the cilantro, and juice from one lime half. Season with salt and pepper.

 

4 COOK PORK Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Season pork all over with salt and pepper. Add to pan and cook until it almost reaches desired doneness, 4-5 minutes per side. Stir in remaining shallot, honey, pineapple juice, and 2 TBSP water. Cook until pork is done, another 1-2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in a squeeze of lime.

 

5 COOK SNAP PEAS Transfer pork and glaze to a plate; cover with foil to keep warm. Wipe out pan, then heat a drizzle of olive oil in it over medium-high heat. Add snap peas. Cook, tossing occasionally, until tender but still slightly crisp, 3-5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.

 

6 FINISH AND PLATE Fluff rice with a fork , then stir in remaining cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Divide between plates, then top with snap peas, pork, glaze, and salsa.

History 101

Photo couresty: Google Images

Hindenburg explodes in New Jersey

By History.com

On May 6 in 1937, the German airship Hindenburg, the largest dirigible ever built, explodes as it arrives in Lakehurst, New Jersey. Thirty-six people died in the fiery accident that has since become iconic, in part because of the live radio broadcast of the disaster.

The dirigible was built to be the fastest, largest and most luxurious flying vessel of its time. It was more than 800 feet long, had a range of 8,000 miles, could carry 97 passengers and had a state-of-the-art Mercedes-Benz engine. It was filled with 7 million cubic feet of hydrogen, even though helium was known to be far safer, because it made the flying ship more maneuverable.

The Hindenburg had made 10 successful ocean crossings the year before and was held up by Germany’s Nazi government as a symbol of national pride. Flying at a speed of 85 miles per hour, the Hindenburg was scheduled to arrive in New Jersey at 5 a.m. on May 6. However, weather conditions pushed the arrival back to the late afternoon and then rain further delayed the docking at Lakehurst. When the dirigible was finally cleared to dock, Captain Max Pruss brought the ship in too fast and had to order a reverse engine thrust. At 7:20 p.m., a gas leak was noticed. Within minutes, the tail blew up, sending flames hundreds of feet in the air and as far down as the ground below.

A chain reaction caused the entire vessel to burn instantly. The nearly 1,000 spectators awaiting the Hindenburg‘s arrival felt the heat from a mile away. Some on the blimp attempted to jump for the landing cables at the docking station but most died when they missed. Others waited to jump until the blimp was closer to the ground as it fell. Those who were not critically injured from burns often suffered broken bones from the jump. Fifty-six people managed to survive.

On WLS radio, announcer Herbert Morrison gave an unforgettably harrowing live account of the disaster, “Oh, oh, oh. It’s burst into flames. Get out of the way, please . . . this is terrible . . . it’s burning, bursting into flames, and is falling . . . Oh! This is one of the worst . . . it’s a terrific sight . . .oh, the humanity.”

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 5.6.17

The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: Weekly.May.6.2017

Why Remember?

By Michael Armijo

 

It was a story about a 9-year-old boy, Travis, whose mother died one day while at home. Without telling a soul, little 9 year-old Travis covered her body with a coat and placed sheets of notebook paper over her face. He then fixed his own meals – mostly frozen pizza, cereal, and soup – cut his own hair, and attended school without fail. He did this for over a month because he was afraid he’d be all alone if anyone found out his mother passed away. Her body was eventually discovered by family friends. Travis begged them not to call the police.

When I read that story I was very moved, to a point that I really wanted to write about it from my perspective. The feeling of loneliness, abandonment, the pain of being panicked at such a young age. Then a friend asked me why I sought out areas in life that are traumatic, emotional, or powerful. He asked me why I chose to focus on elements of life that are painful or disturbing. He asked why I sought to write about these emotions.

It was at that point that I put my life into evaluation. His questions made me think about what I’ve felt and what I’ve been through. It reminded me of a time I had driven by an obstacle that stuck with me.

There was an old, enormous tree that sat in my friends’ neighborhood. One day it caught my eye and I thought to myself; “I never noticed that huge obstacle in front of me before.” Although it’s been there for many years and I’ve had to go around it each time I passed it, I just never really noticed it until now.

I never realized what an intrusion this tree has become because it turned into an everyday routine; going around it had become a part of my life. I felt as though my emotions were just like that tree; I’ve driven past them for years, always going around how I felt, but one day I noticed this tremendous obstruction in my life.

When I thought back, I used to wonder why it took so long to be a productive person, and many times I wondered why life was such a hassle for me. I’ve realized that I’ve had to go around this massive obstacle, over and over and over again. But one day I became fed up; so I decided I wasn’t going to go around this huge barrier anymore. I will now drive right through the “enormous tree.”

It was never my plan to have to deal with such an intrusion; it was never my plan to have to examine the landscape of my life. I thought I was supposed to follow the path that was laid out before me. But somewhere along the way, I developed a source of confidence that convinced me that the paths laid out before me were vulnerable to manipulation. I realized that I could change where I was going and how I was getting there. And I realized that I no longer had to be a slave to life’s barriers.

I believe that it’s these experiences and desires that take you to the lengths of your life, giving you freedom and confidence. But sometimes you end up in a stagnant period when you’re forced to reflect upon unhappy times. During this reflection, you sometimes feel resentful of the circumstances that were before you because you’ve realized that someone planted the seeds that grew into this enormous “tree” that prolonged the success you feel you deserved. Those seeds turned into something that has survived and grown into somewhat like an enormous size. When you realize what happened, you feel angry and resentful that the obstacles in your life were planted by the irresponsibility of others, and nurtured by your vulnerability and dysfunction.

Although you cannot change what happened in your life, you could sometimes get stuck on a place in your mind. You can get stuck in the realm of reiterating a time that was the most traumatic. It’s puzzling why we remember those horrible acts that have scarred our lives with darkness and pain. But as my dear friend asked me a simple question that I had to ask myself, “Why Remember?” After hearing those two words, I felt compelled to just let the darkness go and try to remember how great life really is, because I didn’t know why I should remember such horrid memories.

So as each beautiful and warm sunny day passes before me, I will try to realize: The enormous tree that stands between me and my goals of a successful life may have strong roots that lie beneath the hard and dense surface. But the momentum we carry within our own happiness can uproot this enormous and longstanding “tree.” Because we can only be grateful that the few years we’ve spent as a happy child have brought tears of joy to our lives. We should always be thankful for at least having THESE wonderful memories. And we must remember: when little Travis felt when his mommy passed away late last year, a few pieces of notebook paper may sometimes cover the face of a painful sight, but those few pieces of paper will never make the pain go away. It’s at that point we have to ask ourselves a very simple, yet innocent question: “Why Remember?”

Top Tips for Allergy Management

By StatePoint

Allergy symptoms can lead to a major disruption in quality of life. And unfortunately, they affect a lot of people. Nearly 60 million Americans suffer from allergic rhinitis (also commonly known as hay fever), according to the American College of Allergy Asthma and Immunology.

Luckily, many allergy sufferers are interested in learning more about what causes their allergies and how they can manage them. In fact, 70 percent of allergy sufferers say they wish they had a better understanding of the science behind their allergies, according to a recent survey of over 1,000 allergy sufferers in the US, which was sponsored by Sanofi Consumer Healthcare and conducted online using Toluna’s QuickSurveys methodology.

With that in mind, Sanofi is sharing some helpful information and tips for allergy sufferers to keep in mind this season.

• Know Your Triggers: Determine what allergens or “triggers” cause your symptoms, whether it’s pollen, pet dander, etc. While you may already have some idea of what triggers your symptoms, an allergist can give you a comprehensive check-up for a proper diagnosis.

• Avoid Exposure: If pollen is one of your triggers, check the pollen count before planning that picnic. If it’s your furry friend giving you grief, spend some time vacuuming your rugs and furniture. Once you know your triggers, take steps to avoid or minimize them whenever possible.

• Learn the Science behind Your Symptoms: When an allergy sufferer comes into contact with certain allergens, their body produces a variety of chemical responses that cause those symptoms that can make them feel miserable. According to the recent survey of allergy sufferers, more than half of them said histamine is the only chemical response to allergens that they are familiar with, but there are actually several — including leukotrienes, cytokines, prostaglandins and eosinophils. To relieve allergy symptoms, it’s important to stop these chemical reactions from taking place.

• Visit the Allergy Aisle: Several prescription strength treatment options are available over-the-counter for the relief of allergy symptoms. For example, Nasacort is a scent- and alcohol-free nasal spray that provides 24-hour relief of nasal allergy symptoms like sneezing, itchy runny nose and congestion for adults and children two years of age and older. It does this by stopping the body’s chemical responses to allergens and reducing inflammation in the nasal passages. To learn more and download a coupon, visit Nasacort.com.

This season, be proactive about your allergies. Educate yourself about your triggers and make sure you have an effective treatment on hand to provide symptom relief.

 

History 101

Photo courtesy: Google

May 5, 1862: Cinco de Mayo

 

During the French-Mexican War (1861-1867), a poorly supplied and outnumbered Mexican army under General Ignacio Zaragoza defeats a French army attempting to capture Puebla de Los Angeles, a small town in east-central Mexico. Victory at the Battle of Puebla represented a great moral victory for the Mexican government, symbolizing the country’s ability to defend its sovereignty against a powerful foreign nation.

In 1861, Benito Juarez became president of a country in financial ruin, and he was forced to default on his debts to European governments. In response, France, Britain, and Spain sent naval forces to Veracruz to demand reimbursement. Britain and Spain negotiated with Mexico and withdrew, but France, ruled by Napoleon III, decided to use the opportunity to carve a dependent empire out of Mexican territory. Late in 1861, a well-armed French fleet stormed Veracruz, landing a large French force and driving President Juarez and his government into retreat.

Certain that French victory would come swiftly in Mexico, 6,000 French troops under General Charles Latrille de Lorencez set out in May, 1862, to attack Puebla de Los Angeles. From his new headquarters in the north, Juarez rounded up a ragtag force of loyal men and sent them to Puebla. Led by Texas-born General Zaragoza, the 2,000 Mexicans fortified the town and prepared for the French assault. On the fifth of May, or Cinco de Mayo, Lorencez gathered his army before the city of Puebla and began their assault from the north. The battle lasted from daybreak to early evening, and when the French finally retreated they had lost nearly 500 soldiers to the fewer than 100 Mexicans killed.

Although not a major strategic victory in the overall war against the French, Zaragoza’s victory at Puebla tightened Mexican resistance, and six years later France withdrew. The same year, Austrian Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian, who had been installed as emperor of Mexico by Napoleon in 1864, was captured and executed. Puebla de Los Angeles, the site of Zaragoza’s historic victory, was renamed Puebla de Zaragoza in honor of the general. Today, Mexicans celebrate the anniversary of the Battle of Puebla as Cinco de Mayo, a national holiday in Mexico.

WVUSD Trustees Recognize Students, Parents For Making A Difference

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Fifth grade artists are recognized as honorable mention winners in the Music K-8 Magazine Cover Contest.

 By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—Super star students and parent volunteers from Maple Hill and Westhoff elementary schools were honored by the Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees on April 19.

In addition, the Board recognized 14 talented young artists named winners in the 2017 Music K-8 Magazine Cover Contest and the 2017 Board Representatives.

Maple Hill Elementary all-star parent Natalie Johnson received the Partner in Education Award.

“When there is fun at Maple Hill, Natalie is front and center,” said Principal Kelly Morris.

Photo couresty: WVUSD
Maple Hill Elementary all-star parent Natalie Johnson receives the Partner in Education Award. Shown with Principal Kelly Morris, Board President Dr. Tony Torng, and family members.

Natalie, a Maple Hill alum, serves as the community club 2nd vice president in charge of fundraising.

This year, she planned and organized a new VIP Dance, along with the annual fall fundraiser, luau lunch, Hawk Walk pep rally, and jog-a-thon.

Natalie’s personal priority is to be a champion for kids. She also strives to make sure they receive the same love and excitement she received at the school, Morris said.

“Her events generate excitement and joy in the lives of all our children and teachers. She is a true memory maker!”

Fifth grader Leah Owens received Super Star Student Award.

“Leah has been capturing all our hearts since the first grade. She is incomparable, dynamic, effervescent, and beyond loving,” Morris described.

She has the gift of connecting with people, whether they are strangers or life-long friends.

“Leah has such a light within her, but also knows how to encourage the light within others,” Morris said.

This year, Maple Hill created a new school slogan: Kind Hearts, Strong Minds, Brave Spirit, Hawk Pride.

“Leah is the poster child and embodies all of these qualities!” Morris added.

Current and former teachers were also on hand to pay tribute to the student of the year who volunteers, greets students, makes announcements, and shares “Hawk Pride” all around the campus.

“On numerous occasions, I have watched Leah showing kindness to students who are struggling to make friends,” said 4th grade teacher Samantha Valadez.

“She sees the best in people and easily finds ways to make meaningful connections.”

Two valuable members of the Westhoff Elementary community were honored with the Partner in Education Award.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Maple Hill Elementary all-star parent Natalie Johnson receives the Partner in Education Award. Shown with Principal Kelly Morris, Board President Dr. Tony Torng, and family members.

Parent Valerie Lu quickly became a volunteer in her children’s classes when they started school in 2013, and now serves as the community club vice president.

Valerie collaborates with other parents and stepped up to coordinate phone banking during recent bond campaigns. She helps lead and serve at all schoolwide events including culture fair, walk-a-thon, movie night, Santa’s workshop, and colonial fair. She is also the co-chair for the 5th grade promotion committee and is currently making keepsake invitations for students.

“Westhoff staff members feel that she is responsible, reliable, humble, and never seeks recognition for all that she quietly does behind the scenes,” said Principal Denise Rendon.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Westhoff parent Preston McChesney is lauded with Partner in Education Award on April 19. Shown with Principal Denise Rendon, Board President Dr. Tony Torng, and family members.

Dedicated volunteer Preston McChesney has been helping out in his two children’s classes for the past several years. He is always available when needed and has a positive attitude that rubs off on others.

“Our teachers say that they can count on tons of support from this Dad!” Rendon said.

Preston can often be found sitting on the floor helping classroom reading groups, chaperoning field trips, setting up class parties, and even taking pictures for parents who aren’t there. And most importantly, he is an excellent role model for Westhoff students.

“He inspires all of us with his positive attitude, his devotion to his beautiful family, and genuine kindness he shares so freely. Thank you, for the generous donation of your time!” said Rendon.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Fifth grader Valentina Galvan is recognized with the Super Star Student Award. Shown with Board President Dr. Tony Torng.

Fifth grader Valentina Galvan was recognized with the Super Star Student Award.

Valentina exemplifies good character and sets a wonderful example for her classmates, according to teacher Kimberley Dalton.  She “buddy” reads with struggling readers or those learning English, and brings a smile to those around her because she is so encouraging.

This year, the active student council member led school spirit rallies, organized a school-wide book drive for an orphanage in Rosemead, collected socks for the homeless people, and helped run a note-writing campaign for those serving in the military.

Valentina is always willing to help those around her, and at the same time, maintains excellent study habits, great grades, and citizenship.

“Valentina has a natural sense of goodness and she will do extraordinary things!” Rendon said.

Fourteen elementary students were recognized as winners in the international 2017 Music K-8 Magazine Cover Contest.

Music Specialist Greta Baker introduced the talented 5th grade artists who received certificates of special recognition and color prints of their original designs.

This year’s top WVUSD winner is 2nd Runner-Up – Nadia Tsai from Vejar. Top Finalists are Justin Kung- Castle Rock and Sarah Fan – Westhoff. Finalists are Gloria Nien – Maple Hill, Melody Song – Quail Summit, and Ashley Chiu – Castle Rock. Honorable Mentions are Ashton Chen – Evergreen, Riley Phan – Walnut, LeAnna Fan – Vejar, Mia Zhang – Castle Rock, Alyssa Ma – Maple Hill, Sabrina Lin – Maple Hill, Amin Rasheed – Vejar, and Isabella Torreyson – Vejar.

WVUSD Trustees recognized the 2017 Student Representatives Abigail Nakaishi – Diamond Bar High and Katelyn Rowley – Walnut High for dedicated service.

The seniors are appointed to serve one-year terms, acting as liaisons between their campuses and the Board. Each month, the teens attend open meetings and present detailed reports of campus activities.

Make Your Backyard Extreme

Extreme Backyard Designs is located at 2330 S. Vineyard Ave. They can be reached at 909.930.6111 or online at http://www.extremebackyarddesigns.com.

By Michael Armijo

Companies come and go, so longevity is key when you’re modifying your home, both inside and out. Extreme Backyard Designs is a testimony of longevity as their family run business has been designing outdoor entertainment centers with name brand components for over 20 years.

“A key component to staying in business so long is to treat people the way we would want ourselves to be treated,” said James Deeley, founder of the family business. With so many years in business, you not only get quality products, you also gets years of experience of getting things done correctly and creatively.

Extreme Backyard Designs can provide custom Barbeque islands, outdoor fireplaces, fire pit tables, spas, patio furniture, and many other items all wholesale to the public.

“We are college and trade school educated and enjoy the interaction and satisfaction of transforming backyards into a family’s personal oasis,” Deeley said. “Since we buy at such a large volume, we always have monthly specials on our website.”

The Extreme Backyard Designs staff are the most knowledgeable and friendly people in the area, as they are centrally located on the corner of the 60 Freeway and Vineyard, right across from the newest Kaiser building.

“We believe what makes a business thrive is to provide the best quality components, a superior level of customer service, while providing an affordable price,” Deeley said.

Serving all of Southern California, Extreme Backyard Designs is located at 2330 S. Vineyard Ave in our neighboring city of Ontario. They can be reached at 909.930.6111, or you can view their website at http://www.extremebackyarddesigns.com.

Mt. SAC to Honor 20 Students of Distinction

By Staff Reports 

Walnut– Mt. San Antonio College will honor 20 Students of Distinction at its annual awards ceremony and luncheon on Saturday, May 13 at 11:30 a.m. at the Pacific Palms Resort, 1 Industry Hills Parkway, in the City of Industry.

These annual awards recognize students for competitive, academic, and personal achievement as well as outstanding service to the college. Recipients of this year’s Academic Achievement award, who earned a minimum 3.75 GPA, are Nuha Alomari of Diamond Bar, Angelika Alzaga of West Covina, Justin DesRochers of Hacienda Heights, Hanna Kang of Diamond Bar, William Mo of Rowland Heights, Shahar Syed of Walnut, and Robert Zou of Walnut.

Recipients of the Service Achievement award, who earned a minimum 3.0 GPA and provided notable volunteer service to the college and community, are Rodolfo Arevalo of
West Covina, Alejandro Juarez-Ugalde of La Puente, and Chris Shen of Hacienda Heights.

Recipients of Personal Achievement award, who were selected based on a minimum 2.75 GPA and overcame personal hardship, are Perla Gonzalez of Montclair, Karen Guerra of Ontario, Jerome Kimes of Pomona, Jodi Levy of Covina, Janell Martinez of La Puente, and Divine Otico of Walnut.

Recipients of the Competitive Achievement award, who earned a minimum 3.0 GPA and earned distinction as part of a competitive student group or team, are Brandon Nicely of La Verne, Lindy Rzonca of Walnut, Michael Woo of Rowland Heights, and Charlotte Zhang of Rowland Heights.

Tickets for the awards luncheon are $15 and must be purchased by May 8 through the Student Life Office: (909) 274-4525.

Gang Members Convicted of Murder; Sentenced To 80 Years

By Pomona PD

Pomona – On May 8, 2015, at approximately 10:30 a.m., Officers were dispatched to a victim of a shooting in the 200 block of Fanshaw Avenue.  The victim, 51 year old Pomona residence Gregory Montgomery was found in his front yard suffering from multiple gunshot wounds.  Victim Montgomery ultimately died from these wounds.  Officers and Detectives were immediately able to locate surveillance video of the homicide which showed 2 male black suspects running onto the victim’s property and then executing the victim.  Although identifications were almost impossible to make from the surveillance video the detectives were able to get a good description of the suspect’s vehicle.

Detectives were able to follow up on several leads involving the suspect vehicle and members of a rival Crip gang.  During the investigation, detectives were able to identify two rival gang members as the suspects.  Several surveillance’s and search warrants were conducted in cities of Pomona, Victorville, Chino and Colton where two suspects were identified as the shooters.  32-year-old Terry Smith and 24-year-old Donnell Parker were both arrested for the murder of Gregory Montgomery.

The case was brought to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office where they filed 187 PC- Murder charges on both suspects.  A jury trial was held over the past two weeks where both suspects were found guilty of 1st degree murder with all gang enhancements and were sentenced 80 years to life in prison.

Miguel’s Jr. Hosts Battle for Burritos to Raise Funds for SoCal Schools

City of Eastvale

Corona – Miguel’s Jr. welcomes back the epic Battle for Burritos fundraising competition between five Southern California High Schools now through April 30. This year competition includes Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Santiago High School, Norco High School, Corona High School and Centennial High School and all are competing for free lunch from Miguel’s Jr. plus cash donations to support the winning schools.

Visit any Miguel’s Jr. now through April 30 and mention the preferred participating school mascot when placing an order. The school with the most mascot mentions will receive a free lunch for all students from Miguel’s Jr. plus a $1 donation for each mention up to $500.

The top three participating schools with the most mascot mentions at the end of the month will receive an additional cash donation of $2,500 for 1st place, $1,000 for 2nd place and $500 for 3rd place. The winners will be announced on May 1 via Miguel’s Jr. social media.

“We are thrilled to be hosting our second annual Battle for Burritos to support some of the local high schools. Tapping into each school’s competitive team spirit has been a fun way for us to get involved and show support,” commented Steve Rezner, Miguel’s Jr. Director of Marketing, “We hope to continue the tradition and expand the Battle for Burritos program to include more schools throughout Southern California.”

For more information about Miguel’s Jr. 2nd annual Battle for Burritos, visit miguelsjr.com/battle. Follow the competition and support your favorite high school using #BattleForBurritos and #MiguelsJR.

 

Walnut’s Peddlers’ Market Community Rummage Sale

City of Walnut

Walnut—Residents have cleaned out their closets and are heading to the Walnut Senior Center (21215 La Puente Road,Walnut) for a Community Rummage Sale! Join us on Saturday, May 6 from 8:00 am to 1:00 pm as the City of Walnut host its annual Peddlers’ Market in partnership with over 40 residents selling their old treasures. There is no entry fee to shop and everyone is welcome. For information contact the Walnut Senior Center at 909-598-6200.