Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News

History 101

Texans Head For The Thrills At Six Flags

History-101-WEB

By History.com  

On August 1 in 1961, amusement park lovers “head for the thrills” as Six Flags Over Texas, the first park in the Six Flags chain, opens. Located on 212 acres in Arlington, Texas, the park was the first to feature log flume and mine train rides and later, the first 360-degree looping roller coaster, modern parachute drop and man-made river rapids ride. The park also pioneered the concept of all-inclusive admission price; until then, separate entrance fees and individual ride tickets were the standard. During its opening year, a day at Six Flags cost $2.75 for an adult and $2.25 for a child. A hamburger was sold for 50 cents and a soda set the buyer back a dime.

The park, which took a year and $10 million to build, was the brainchild of Texas real estate developer and oilman Angus Wynne Jr., who viewed it as a short-term way to make a buck from some vacant land before turning it into an industrial complex. Wynne reportedly recouped his personal investment of $3.5 million within 18 months and changed his mind about the park’s temporary status. With 17.5 million visitors in its first 10 years, the park became the Lone Star State’s top for-profit tourist attraction. Today, average annual attendance at the park is over 3 million.

One of Six Flags’ unique aspects was that it wasn’t just a random collection of rides; it was developed around a theme: the history of Texas. The park’s name was a nod to the six flags that had flown over the state at various times–France, Spain, Mexico, the Confederacy, Texas and the United States. The park’s rides and attractions were grouped into six themed sections that represented the cultures of these governments and enabled visitors to experience everything from cowboy culture to Southern belles and pirates. Originally, the park was to be called Texas Under Six Flags, before it was decided that Texas should never be under anything.

Angus Wynne sold Six Flags in 1969 and in the coming years, the company expanded and was resold. Today, Six Flags, Inc. is the world’s largest regional theme park company and owns and operates 30 theme, water and zoological parks in North America. In 2005, almost 34 million people spent a combined 250 million hours at Six Flags parks.

Concerts And Movies

Staff Reports

Walnut – Walnut residents have enjoyed the annual Summer Concerts and Movies in the Park this summer. The event is coming to end as the last day of the series will be Aug. 2. The concerts are from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. and the movies begin immediately after.

Local residents are invited to this last Concerts and Movies in the Park but make sure to bring a picnic complete with blanket and lawn chairs. A nice selection of food is also available for sale by local food trucks.

On Aug. 2, Cold Duck (Top 40’s) will provide live entertainment and The Avengers, Age of Ultron (PG-13) will play afterwards.

Follow the City of Walnut on Facebook for more information and to find out which trucks will be in town at the concert.

Let’s Go Shopping

mark-hopper-color-2x2By Pastor Mark Hopper

Recently, my wife heard that a clothing store was having a clearance sale.  Everything was on sale because the store was closing.

The friend that shared the news said that she had found some good bargains.  It sounded like a shopping opportunity.

I asked my wife if she wanted to go, but I was surprised that she said “no”.  She said that she really didn’t need anything.  But I encouraged her to go.  After all, everything was on sale!

It seemed a little ironic.  Usually my wife is the one who wants to go shopping and I am the one who wants to stay home and save money.

But, here I was encouraging her to go even though she said she didn’t want to!  I finally persuaded her and I offered to go with her.

The store was not as crowded as I expected and there was still a lot of merchandise on the racks.  My wife headed to the women’s section and I went looking for some new socks in the men’s department.

I found some socks pretty quickly and had time to look at some of the golf shirts on sale.  It took my wife a little longer to try on a number of items and decide which ones she could not live without.

One of the nice things that many clothing stores provide is a place for men to sit while the women are trying on clothes.  The marketing department knows that the longer the men sit, the more the women will buy!

When we finally got to the check-out counter, we had managed to buy more items than we had planned on.  I guess that is what happens when everything in the store is on sale!

Not only did my wife purchase several items, but I ended up with socks and a new golf shirt too.   How did that happen?

When we got home, I think we both agreed that we were glad we went shopping together.  The next time your husband says, “Let’s go shopping”, make sure you say “yes”.  You’ll be glad you did and he will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.  Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.  For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit Efreedb.org

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 7.30.16

2016-Jul30-Weekly-COVERcompleteThe 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:2016-Jul30-Weekly

SB County DA Named President

Staff Reports  

Photo Courtesy: San Bernardino County District Attorney's Office

Photo Courtesy: San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office

San Bernardino– On July 18, San Bernardino County released that District Attorney Mike Ramos was sworn in as President of the National District Attorneys Association (NDAA).

This ceremony was held in Boston, Massachusetts and Ramos was honored during the NDAA’s 2016 Summer Conference and National Victim’s Right Summit.

The former NDAA President, Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick, administered the oath of office to Ramos and the Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker was a main speaker for the ceremony and conducted the “Passing of the Gavel.”

As Ramos made his inaugural speech, he states, “I am honored to have earned the support of my colleagues and given the opportunity to represent the thousands of elected District Attorneys across our great nation,” and also stating, “My intent is to work with my fellow District Attorneys and utilitize this position to continue to fight for justice and victims’ rights at a national level.”

According to SB County District Attorney’s office, Ramos also promised to continue working cooperatively with all local, state, and federal partners in the law and justice community and to help further develop the functions and valuable services NDAA has to offer.

His previous leadership roles for the organization have included vice president and current co-chair of NDAA’s Training and Education Committee. He currently is serving his fourth term as District Attorney of SB County and previously served as president of the CA District Attorneys Association, as well as currently one of three members appointed by the Governor to the CA Victim Compensation Board.

Memberships include District Attorneys from across the United States for NDAA, formed in 1950 and represents the interests of prosecutors and influences federal and national policies affecting law enforcement and prosecution across the country, which is based in Arlington, Virginia.

 

The Carpenter

By Michael Armijo

I received an email a while back that has always resonated with me.  I find myself thinking about it from time to time, as the words it contained often remind me to work hard and be proud of what I’ve accomplished.  It has encouraged me to continue to keep my heart within my work, as you never know what life will bring you. It is good advice, no matter who you are or what you do, and I share it with you now.

The Carpenter:  An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. He told his employer of his plans to leave the house-building business and live a more leisurely life with his wife and extended family.  He would miss the paycheck, but he needed to retire. They could get by.

The employer, who was sorry to see his good worker go, asked if he would build just one more house as a personal favor. The carpenter said yes, but in time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career.

When the carpenter finished his work the employer came to inspect the house. He handed the front-door key to the carpenter. “This is your house,” he said, “my gift to you for all of your hard work and dedication.”

The carpenter was shocked; what a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently.

So it is with us. We build our lives, a day at a time, often putting less than our best into the building. Then with a shock we realize we have to live in the house we’ve built. If we could do it over, we’d do it much differently. But we cannot go back.

You are the carpenter. Each day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall. “Life is a do-it-yourself project,” someone once said. Your attitudes and the choices you make today, build the “house” you live in tomorrow. Build wisely, and remember:  Work like you don’t need the money. Love like you’ve never been hurt. Dance like no one is watching. Enjoy life like it’s your last day on Earth.

 

Ask Clark’s

                                                                  "ask clarks" header

By Clark’s Nutrition and Natural Foods Market

Q: “What is gluten and is it bad for me?” – a letter from Melisssa of Loma Linda

A: Gluten is a protein found primarily in wheat, rye, triticale and barley. A smaller protein found in gluten which is called gliadin is a “simple cereal protein” that can be problematic for some individuals as well. As for gluten being bad for you? This depends on whether or not you are gluten intolerant or gluten sensitive. Individuals that are gluten sensitive or allergic may have moderate to severe reactions when consuming gluten. People with Celiac disease (called Celiac Sprue originally) are often the most concerned with gluten. Celiac, once considered to be rare is being better diagnosed which is leading to a larger numbers of individuals being identified as gluten intolerant. Celiac individuals are considered to be DNA-gene susceptible for gluten intolerance. Often identified early in life, Celiac is also diagnosed later in adolescence as well. Celiac individuals who consume gluten respond with an immune (T-cell) reaction to gluten. This effect causes lesions on the intestinal lining and malabsorption, preventing nutrients from getting into the body, and is often accompanied by pain and diarrhea. Prevalence of Celiac disease is about 1 in every 1000-3000 individuals. Other gluten complications exist as well. Gluten is also a commonly known allergen to the U.S. population. There are also non-Celiac gluten sensitive (NCGS) Individuals. These people have allergy response gluten sensitivity. Symptoms of digestive complications such as gas, bloating and diarrhea along with general symptoms often overlap and make it difficult to distinguish between Celiac and non-Celiac conditions.

The avoidance of wheat is becoming a little on the ‘vogue’ side lately as well. One thing to remember about wheat is that it is considered to be a great source of nutrients. Although wheat is not native to the Western Hemisphere more than 1/3 of the world’s population utilize wheat as a main dietary staple. Some individuals suggest that a lot of the wheat berries in use today in the US have gone through decades of selective changes, and that older wheat like spelt are much easier to digest. This would also include the gluten protein in them. Although considered to be an allergen alternative by some people, it is not for all. If you are sensitive to wheat, consider other grains such as amaranth and quinoa as an alternative. This would allow you to make sure you are getting the full range of nutrients that your body needs.

Have a health related question?

Send us your question, your first and last name, and the city you live in to: askclarks@clarksnutrition.com

Due to the number of responses, we will only be able to answer published questions.

 

Reference

  1. McCane Understanding Pathophysiology 4th ed., Mosby St Louis, MO, 2008 pg 992-4, 1144,
  2. Micheal Murray ND, Encyclopedia of Healing Foods, Atria Books New York, NY. 2005 , pg 333-64
  3. Micheal Murray N.D., The Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine 3rd ed., Atra New York, NY. 2012 Pg 402-6

Walnut City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – The July 13 Walnut Council meeting began with the recognition of the Mayor’s Advisory Committee. The Council and outgoing Mayor Bob Pacheco thanked the committee for their hard work and everything they gave back to the City. The Council then proclaimed July as Parks and Recreation month, commending the Parks and Recreation Commission for keeping the City beautiful and pleasant for everyone. Outgoing Mayor Pacheco then received several commendations for the work he accomplished this last year, including from Congressman Ed Royce, Senator Bob Huff, Assemblywoman Chang, and more. As his last act as mayor, Pacheco commented on all the progress the City made in the past year, praising City employees, Council members, and Walnut residents for all working together to make Walnut a beautiful community for people to live in.

The Council was then reorganized. Eric Ching was appointed as the new mayor, and was sworn in by his wife of thirty years. Although Mary Su and Nancy Tragarz were both nominated as mayor pro tem, Nancy Tragarz refused the position and Mary Su remained mayor pro tem.

The reorganized Council approved the minutes of the June 22 City Council meeting and opened the public hearing on an ordinance prohibiting parking on various city streets in the vicinity of Mt. SAC. The ordinance was approved, although Councilmember Su pointed out that in most cases, such an ordinance is only a temporary solution, as students respond to such measures by simply parking in other streets. Su called for a meeting with Mt. SAC and an opportunity to teach the students directly about alternative parking areas and residential areas which should be avoided.

The Council then held the second public hearing for the appeal of a conditional use permit for Lot 269. Although opinions varied wildly between residents, the Council approved the appeal on the condition that a pocket park should be added to the tract map, satisfying both ends of the spectrum of opinions brought to the Council. The Council also approved all items on the consent calendar, including a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $1,169,489.20; a public improvements and release of improvement bond for tract 72827; and a continuance for the appeal of the Planning Commission denial to construct over-height fences in the front yards of four homes on Sunset Circle. The Council agreed that more discussion was necessary in the case of the over-height fence construction. The owners wanted a fence for added safety in response to the new crime wave that appeared to have hit Walnut. While the Council was sympathetic to the homeowners’ concerns, the effect of the City-wide fences was important to consider.

Following individual reports and comments, the Council adjourned to July 27 at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Rd.

Bring The Family Together For Meal Time

By StatePoint  

Photo courtesy: StatePoint

Photo courtesy: StatePoint

Between work and school-year commitments, it can be difficult to carve out time to sit down at the table and enjoy a home-cooked dinner as a family, but it is well worth the effort. In addition to offering an opportunity to bond, eating together and engaging in conversation can have a deeper influence on children. Follow these tips to bring the family together and create a lasting tradition.

Mark the Calendar

Create a monthly calendar that incorporates a few meals a week in which everyone can be present when there are no sports, activities or after-work functions. Research shows that children benefit when the family eats together at least three times a week. In fact, reported improvements range from healthy eating habits to improved literacy and verbal skills, according to the Family Dinner Project. If three dinners is a stretch for your busy family, consider morning brunches or evening desserts.

Create a Family-Friendly Menu

Integrate family favorites to create excitement around supper, such as a weekly pizza night. Make homemade crust as a team and craft personal pies incorporating fresh toppings, such as bell peppers, onions, spinach, zucchini and tomatoes. To further maximize time, create dishes on a weekend to freeze and thaw when ready. Try a simple tortilla soup that can be prepared in minutes using a high-performance blender, such as a Vitamix.

Have Hands-on Meal Prep

Incorporate the kids into every step of meal prep in a safe and easy way. Drop vegetables into the blender to chop for pizza or salad toppings, tortilla soup or even a Taco Tuesday fiesta. Then, allow kids to add these veggies to the recipe. Engage your children further by having them set timers and watch for meals to cook. As a final step, allow them to add spices and fresh herbs before setting dinner on the table. Fast and tasty family recipe ideas that you can create together can be found at Vitamix.com.

Turn Off Electronics

Make the table an electronic-free zone. Turn off cell phones and television shows to make room for face-to-face communication. Removing cell phones from the equation can positively influence the quality of conversation, while helping kids to gain a better understanding of social cues, facial expressions and changes in tone that lead to more fruitful interactions, according to a study by researchers at Virginia Tech. Unplugged conversations can help create memorable family moments.

Think of the kitchen and the dinner table as family gathering places to help instill good habits — from great communication skills to healthier eating. If you look at meals as more than just food, your family will reap the benefits.

Recent Recalls

Staff Reports

This week’s newest recalls are listed below:

  1. Things Remembered recalls children’s jewelry due to violation of lead standard- The clear surface coating on the bracelets and necklaces contain lead in excess of the allowable limits. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health issues.
  2. PharmaTech LLC issues voluntary nationwide recall of Diocto Liquid distributed by Rugby Laboratories due to product contamination- PharmaTech LLC of Davie, FL, the manufacturer of the Rugby®- branded product, is voluntarily recalling all lots within the expiry of Diocto Liquid, a docusate sodium solution due to a risk of product contamination with Burkholderia cepacia. Use of docusate sodium liquid contaminated with B. cepacia may result in serious infections that could be life-threatening in patients with compromised immune systems and in patients with chronic lung conditions such as cystic fibrosis.
  3. Kiddy USA (Kiddy) is recalling certain World Plus combination forward facing child restraints that convert to a high back booster seat, model 51 100 WP, manufactured from July 2, 2012 through October 5, 2013. The buckle/tongue on the affected booster seats may only partially engage. As a result, the consumer may have a false impression that the buckle is fully latched when it is not. As such, these seats fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 213, “Child Restraint Systems.”
  4. Jaguar Land Rover North America, LLC (Land Rover) is recalling certain model year 2016 Land Rover LR4 vehicles manufactured May 3, 2016 through May 10, 2016. The affected vehicles have driver side frontal air bags that may not inflate properly.
  5. GSI Outdoors recalls Children’s Water Bottles due to violation of lead standard – Sold Exclusively at L.L.Bean- The lead solder exterior base of the bottles contains high levels of lead, which is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health issues.

 

JCSD Dances to help Eastvale Resident get her Dancing Legs!

Photo courtsy Face Book @Daretodancechallenge

Photo courtesy Face Book @Daretodancechallenge

JCSD

Eastvale, CA –The Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) Parks and Recreation Department is dancing to help 3 year old Finley Smallwood raise money and awareness about Cerebral Palsy.

Beautiful Finley was born 9 weeks premature and suffers from Cerebral Palsy. She loves to dance, but can’t move without help. The Smallwoods received recent news that Finley is a great candidate for selective dorsal rhizotomy. The procedure may help her walk and even dance on her own someday; however, the procedure is not covered under their medical insurance. That is where the #DareToDanceChallenge was born.

To help raise awareness for Cerebral Palsy and help Finley with the cost of surgery, JCSD invites everyone to participate in the Dare to Dance Challenge this Friday (July 29) during the 65th Street LIVE Concert in the Park event held at Harada Heritage Park.

All concert guests will be encouraged to dance with Finley and show support for her cause. The event will be filmed, posted on social media, and will include a dare for other nearby agencies to dance too! If they don’t accept the challenge within 24 hours they must donate $20 to www.doyoudaretodance.com, or better yet, everyone can Dance AND Donate!

You can help a little girl get her miracle — to one day dance and walk on her own.

#daretodancechallenge

Now it’s YOUR turn! We Dare YOU Dare to Dance!

If you would like to learn more about Finley’s journey and how you can help, please visitwww.doyoudaretodance.com

About 65th Street LIVE

The annual summer concert series presented by Jurupa Community Services District’s (JCSD) Parks and Recreation Department just got even better!  This yearly summer concert series tradition, now entering its eighth year, is being launched as 65th Street Live!  In addition to live music performed by local bands at Harada Heritage Park in Eastvale, there will be added fun to make your family’s summer even more memorable.

Put on your dancing shoes, bring the entire family, your friends, and neighbors, and get ready to celebrate the season with the following bands:

Photo courtesy Instagram@ fifiandmo

Photo courtesy Instagram@ fifiandmo

Time: All concert performances are from 7:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.
Location: Harada Heritage Park, 13099 65th Street, Eastvale
Cost: Concert is free and wristbands for the Fun Zone are $5.00
Parking: Additional parking available on 68th Street
What to Bring: Lawn chairs, picnic blankets, food, etc.
Vendors: Vendors will be selling a variety of food and drinks
Questions?: Visit www.parks.jcsd.us or call (951) 727-3524

Connect with us on Social Media @JCSDParks. Share your memories this summer using #65thStreetLIVE or #JCSD2016. If you have any questions, please call the JCSD Parks and Recreation Department at (951) 727-3524 or visit our website at www.parks.jcsd.us.

DB Coyote Sightings

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar– In the last few weeks, there have been numerous reports of coyote sightings.

One resident reported that, “Coyote sighting tonight behind my backyard nearby by Ronald Reagan Park and the fire station. My mom called me to tell me she was outside with our pug when she spotted out of the corner of her eye a coyote. She immediately grabbed our pug and ran inside. Luckily, we always go outside with our dogs for this reason. Keep an eye on your pets diamond bar!”

Another report was made by a resident saying, “Coyote alert…..behind the homes of Armitos between Pikes and Goldpoint. It stood behind the fence staring at my dog. I scared it off….and it ran toward the hillside behind the homes. Watch your fur babies.”

Not only were there report of coyotes, a Diamond Bar resident reports of a bobcat sighting while at home saying, “I sat quietly reading under our patio Monday evening when I saw something move in the corner of my eye and to my amazement it was a bobcat about to sneak past me to get to our back hill garden. To my surprise the bobcat stopped about ten feet from me considering its option and then as I stood up it turned, it jumped up on the wall and went on its way to our garden where it stayed for at least fifteen minutes, even with my wife and I stalking it!”

Diamond Bar residents have given some advice saying, “just wanted to warn anyone who has a very small dog: do not to leave it in your garden alone especially at dusk as not only do you have to watch out for coyotes but I have noticed that the bobcats are also around. They normally only feed on rats, mice and rabbits but a large bobcat could potentially kill a very small dog.”

The City of Diamond Bar also provided the following tips:

If coyote sightings are common in your neighborhood or place of recreation, the City recommends the following tips to help deter them for inhabiting private properties or having conflicts with small pets.

Make your property less hospitable for wild animals by removing shelter, water and food sources:

  • Thin ground level shrubbery that can serve as a den or hiding place, take down and store bird feeders, and promptly gather low-hanging fruit and collect any fallen pieces.
  • Teach your children to learn how to identify coyote and know what to do if they come in contact with one.
  • Keep a close watch on small pets, feed them indoors, supervise them while they are outdoors, and always walk dogs on a leash.
  • Store refuse containers in your garage or another secure area until collection day.
  • Also of great importance is that you and your neighbors do not intentionally feed or attempt to tame coyotes as this causes them to lose their innate fear of humans, thereby increasing the potential for encounters and conflicts with people and pets.

In the event you encounter an aggressive or fearless coyote, the Department of Fish and Wildlife suggest you take the following steps:

  • Make sure you are standing up and pick up any small pets or young children who may be with you.
  • Face the coyote and try to frighten it away by shouting loudly and waving your arms above your head to appear larger and menacing; do not stop until it has left. If it does not leave or starts walking toward you, throw rocks, sticks or other objects in its direction.
  • Retreat by walking backward so that you do not turn your back on the coyote.

Report incidents of aggressive coyotes or conflicts to City Hall by calling 909.839.7010 or visitingwww.diamondbarca.gov/wildanimal.

 

 

Don Lugo Earned A Six-Year Accreditation

CVUSD  Don-Lugo-WEB

Chino – This spring, Don Lugo High received a six-year accreditation from the Western Association of Schools and Colleges, the longest accreditation granted by the organization to an educational institution.

The WASC accreditation process aids institutions in developing and sustaining effective educational programs and assures the educational community, the general public, and other organizations that an accredited institution has met high standards of quality and effectiveness.

In its more than 350-page WASC Self-Study Report, Don Lugo administrators and teachers listed a variety of data, citing its strengths, weaknesses, improvements, and goals for the future.

According to the document’s writers, the Chino school has undergone many significant changes in the last six years, and particularly in the last three years.

The school has a new principal and all three new assistant principals. Led by the administrative team, the school has implemented new attendance protocols, new behavior management programs, and new curriculum in English and math, while also making notable changes in social science, career and technical subjects, language, and arts instruction.

Don Lugo has added new Academics and Pathways to its course catalog and expanded its enrollment in honors and Advanced Placement courses.

In the summer of 2015, approximately 60 teachers (85% of the instructional staff) attended three days of training in the Capturing Kids’ Hearts program, a comprehensive philosophy and set of protocols to ensure a culture in which all students feel safe, supported, and where instructional and learning time is optimized. Teachers taking the training use strategies to build better relationships with students, such as getting them to learn each other’s names, sharing something good at the start of class, and creating social norms. The teachers were trained to ask four questions before sending students out on a referral: What are you doing? What are you supposed to be doing? Are you doing it? What are you going to do about that?

Many Don Lugo teachers have said they have noticed an improved atmosphere at the school since the Capturing Kids’ Hearts program was implemented. Plans are in place to provide the remaining staff with training.

Don Lugo now has a second Intervention Specialist for Math who is available to assist teachers with quality instructional strategies for rigor, the formative process, checking for understanding, providing formal and informal feedback, incorporating technology, and differentiation. The Intervention Specialist’s goal is to facilitate self-reflection and growth in teachers and provide instructional support for the new Common Core State Standards in math.

The Chino school’s administrators, teachers and students have worked diligently to increase Don Lugo’s Honors and Advanced Placement program. Don Lugo added AP Psychology and AP Economics to its course offerings. Site administrators and teachers have removed the more stringent prerequisites for admittance into AP courses as a way to ensure that all students have access to those classes. AP courses are publicized to all students during the spring prior to enrollment, and at AP Student and Parent Information Nights. Don Lugo’s AP Club holds fundraisers to help students pay for exams. All AP instructors are trained. Seventy-five percent of Don Lugo’s AP teachers attended the 2015 Summer AP By the Sea Institute in San Diego and/or Pre-AP trainings at the University of California, Riverside.

While the school’s AP program enrollment dropped from 245 in the 2012/2013 school year to 214 in 2013/2014 and 192 in 2014/2015, renewed efforts by the faculty and students have resulted in 320 students (about 20% of the student population) enrolling in AP courses in the 2015/2016 school year.

Two pilot programs are underway at Don Lugo. The school had adopted a multi-tiered system of support for positive behavior and have hired an Intervention Counselor to create the program. Also, four special education teachers are participating in the California Department of Education’s transitional project. In that project, teachers are taught how to successfully develop, implement, and monitor college and career awareness goals in the special education students’ Individual Education Plans (IEPs).

Don Lugo’s academies include the Lugo Engineering and Design (LEAD) Academy; Sports Management Academy; and Technology, Environment, Animal Medicine, Agriscience, and Agribusiness (TEAM A & A) Academy. It recently added an equestrian component and service animal program to its Agricultural department. Under the service animal program, students are raising puppies for the Guide Dogs for the Blind organization.

 

Straight Talk With Danice

Our house needs repairs – a letter from Bebe

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi

Q: My husband has been ignoring me for years about updating our house.   This is just not a high priority for him even though I offered to save for all the various things by working extra hours so it wouldn’t hurt our budget.  We used to entertain, but over the years things started breaking, paint and carpet looks old, one  toilet doesn’t flush right, landscape dies, sliding glass door doesn’t slide.  I started to feel embarrassed about the appearance and condition of our home so I said no more entertaining until we addressed the issues.  The house has gone downhill for years and I have lived with it and accepted the fact that this is the way it is.  I stopped asking for improvements, but I won’t volunteer for hosting holidays or parties.  He’s always acted like he didn’t care and I don’t want to fight. Now he wants his football buddy to visit us from another state.  I came home from work to find my husband changing all the doorknobs in the house so they would match and there’s a guy outside jack hammering our damaged concrete.  When I complained that this was not exactly what I had in mind, he said there is no making me happy and that I’m too picky and he stomped off.

This is not fair.  I haven’t said a word to him about home repairs for years. Please give me your opinion.  I hate fighting but I don’t want to give in on having a visitor.

 

A: It sounds to me like your husband fully ignored your requests until he needed you to change your stance on house guests and entertaining in your home.  This gets a solid “F” from me.  The fact that you have become embarrassed about your home to the degree that you have stopped all entertaining and hosting of holiday events tells me that you have all but given up. I don’t think your husband realizes how much this hurts you to not be able to have pride in your home.  I don’t speak for everyone, and certainly there are many men who take great pride in the appearance and condition of their homes, but it’s hard for most people, especially women, to feel embarrassed about their dwelling and to feel continually helpless and hopeless to bring it up to par because the goals and desires of the joint householders are in conflict.

Tell me, Bebe, in what other areas has your marital happiness become as diminished as your home?  I’m willing to bet that you don’t have stars in your eyes for your husband anymore.  I’m willing to bet that you have made a habit of not looking at much of anything in an effort to block out your frustration and disappointment about the condition of your home.  It’s troubling to me that your husband is more concerned about enjoying a visit with his football buddy then he is about your overall basic happiness.  You have far bigger problems than home repairs and houseguests.   You and your husband are not playing on the same team.  Your marriage lacks communication, respect, and cooperation. I’m positive that this will eventually affect your romantic happiness.  It’s time to sit down and really address this problem with your husband before you wake up one day and find yourself giving up on him like you’ve done with your house.  Believe me Bebe, this is a common outcome when couples ignore serious problems.

You have the perfect opportunity right now to get this important conversation started.  Seek guidance if you need to, but don’t miss this opportunity.

Theft Suspect Sought

Staff Reports   

Chino PD is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the theft suspect pictured above.

Photo courtesy: City of Chino
Chino PD is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying the theft suspect pictured above.

Chino – The Chino Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in identifying a vehicle theft suspect after a pursuit took place in Chino last week.

On Monday, July 11, at 7:49 a.m., a Chino Police Officer attempted to stop a blue Sand Rail, off-road vehicle that was driving recklessly near the intersection of Bickmore and Euclid Avenue in Chino. It was later learned that the vehicle was previously stolen from the City of Norco.

The driver fled at high speeds in the off-road vehicle and refused to stop. A pursuit began for several minutes until it was cancelled due to safety concerns. The vehicle then became disabled in the 15500 block of El Prado Road, where the driver fled on foot into the Chino Creek Basin, according to the City of Chino.

Chino Officers and Chino Hills Deputies, along with an Ontario Police Department helicopter, searched for the suspect for several hours but they were unable to locate him.

The suspect was identified as a Hispanic adult male who is approximately 25-30 years old. Surveillance camera images of the suspect were released and the Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance in locating or identifying the suspect.

Anyone who can help locate or identify this suspect can contact Officer Thomas at (909) 334-3103 or mthomas@chinopd.org.

Chino’s Hidden Treasure: Clark’s Nutrition

Staff Reports   

Chino – Have you ever heard of Clark’s Nutrition? Imagine a Whole Foods, Sprouts, Trader Joes, and Nutrishop all under one roof… in your back yard, Chino! Clark’s Nutrition & Natural Foods Market is a rare find in the natural foods industry. If you haven’t discovered this amazing store yet, it is worth your time to investigate.

Marketing Director, Mike Barnett says, “Often people will tell us that they’ve heard of Clarks and they think it’s just another supplement shop, but once they walk inside our Chino store, they get what all the fuss is about.”

Clark’s stores not only have a huge selection of supplements (their Chino location has one of the largest supplement sections in the entire country), but they have a wide variety of organic grocery items, complete with gluten-free sections,  including Vegan and Vegetarian options, as well as a large selection of organic produce.

Want to get a free make-over with natural, cruelty-free make-up too? No problem, Clark’s has a make-up section that looks like something you’d see at a MAC make-up counter. Clark’s is the only retail partner with actress, Suzanne Somers, to offer her organic cosmetics and skin care line, SUZANNE Organics.

Clark’s is a pioneer in the health food world. They opened the doors of their first location in Riverside in 1972, long before health food became vogue. Today there are stores in Riverside, Loma Linda, Rancho Mirage and now Chino.

But have you ever been to a “health foods” store before and felt overwhelmed or weren’t sure where to start? Have you felt the opposite, like you knew more than the employee? Have no fear, Clark’s knows how refreshing it is to speak with health food store employees that know their stuff and are willing to share their knowledge.

The Clark’s slogan is, “Live better, we can help.”  How does Clark’s actually help people you ask? Clark’s has made their business thrive on helping to educate people about their health. Starkie Sowers, the Director of Education at Clarks says, “We have Nutritional Consultants at Clarks. These employees go through our 5 level in-house training program. It takes about 3 ½ years to get to a Level 5 at Clarks.” Clark’s takes education about health seriously. These knowledgeable (non-commission) Nutritional Consultants are one of the keys to why people love Clarks so much.

Clark’s is a great find for anyone looking to improve their health. They have competitive pricing, knowledgeable staff, a great product selection and a beautiful Chino location close to home.

Discover this Chino treasure located at 12835 Mountain Ave in Chino.

Attitude Is Everything

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

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 every day being happy do 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 positive will come to you!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients. She is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services, feel free to contact her at (909)229-0727.  You may also 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.

 

CH Allows Watering 3-Times Per Week

Staff Reports

Chino Hills- A meeting that was held on July 12 recommended that the Chino Hills City Council review a recommendation to adopt an urgency Water conservation Ordinance that would allow watering to move to three-times per week instead of the two-times per week.

June has been a record high with the heat, so concerns about distressed and dying trees was fast tracked for a special meeting in the City Council Chambers at the City Hall.

On July 13, Chino Hills City Council released that they took action on an Urgency Water Conservation Ordinance and declared a Stage II Moderate Conservation Alert that went into effect immediately. This is now allowing the community to use water for outdoor irrigation three-times per week.

The City of Chino Hills released the following restrictions:

The Stage II Moderate Conservation Alert that went into effect immediately with last night’s Council action limits outdoor irrigation to 3 days per week. Residential addresses ending in an even number may use water: Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays (except 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.). Residential addresses ending in an odd number may use water: Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays (except 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.). Non-residential addresses may use water: Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays (except 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.). All irrigation shall not exceed fifteen (15) minutes per watering-station, except for drip or micro-spray irrigation systems which shall not exceed 30 minutes per station.

The Stage II Moderate Conservation Alert also imposes the following restrictions:

  • Prohibits outdoor watering of landscaping between the hours of 9 a.m. and 6 p.m.
  • Prohibits application of water to hard surfaces such as sidewalks, driveways, and parking areas etc. or irrigation causing runoff, etc.
  • Requires the repair of leaks within 48 hours.
  • Prohibits use of water hose without a shutoff valve.
  • Prohibits irrigating outdoor landscape after measure rain (1/10” or more within a 48 hour period)
  • Limits pool-filling to the above specified irrigation days.
  • Decorative water fountains at commercial properties may only be operated if the water is part of a re-circulating system.
  • Vehicles, trailers, boats, and livestock can be washed with a hand-held hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle.
  • Restaurants may not serve water unless the customer request water.
  • Water may not run off or leak from landscaped areas to streets, sidewalks, or other paved areas due to incorrectly directed or maintained sprinklers or over watering.
  • Fire hydrants may only be used for firefighting. *

*An exception may be made for construction use through a City-designated meter when recycled water is not available.

City of Chino Hills reminds everyone that the new Ordinance reinforces the need to continue to conserve water with the current drought conditions, and will continue to encourage the replacement of turf with drought tolerant vegetation; improve the water system to limit failures; and increase the use of recycled water as well as enforce water restrictions.

For additional information, you may view the Water Conservation Ordinance on the City website at: www.chinohills.org/waterconservationordinance.org

History 101

Puerto Rico Invaded

By History.com  History-WEB

During the Spanish-American War, U.S. forces launch their invasion of Puerto Rico, the 108-mile-long, 40-mile-wide Island that was one of Spain’s two principal possessions in the Caribbean. With little resistance and only seven deaths, U.S. troops under General Nelson A. Miles were able to secure the island by mid-August. After the signing of an armistice with Spain, American troops raised the U.S. flag over the island, formalizing U.S. authority over its one million inhabitants. In December, the Treaty of Paris was signed, ending the Spanish-American War and officially approving the cession of Puerto Rico to the United States.

In the first three decades of its rule, the U.S. government made efforts to Americanize its new possession, including granting full U.S. citizenship to Puerto Ricans in 1917 and considering a measure that would make English the island’s official language. However, during the 1930s, a nationalist movement led by the Popular Democratic Party won wide support across the island, and further U.S. assimilation was successfully opposed. Beginning in 1948, Puerto Ricans could elect their own governor, and in 1952 the U.S. Congress approved a new Puerto Rican constitution that made the island an autonomous U.S. commonwealth, with its citizens retaining American citizenship. The constitution was formally adopted by Puerto Rico on July 25, 1952, the 54th anniversary of the U.S. invasion.

Movements for Puerto Rican statehood, along with lesser movements for Puerto Rican independence, have won supporters on the island, but popular referendums in 1967 and 1993 demonstrated that the majority of Puerto Ricans still supported their special status as a U.S. commonwealth.

 

Community Robotics Workshop At Mt. SAC

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – The Mt. San Antonio College STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) Center and the college’s Robotics Team will host a Robotics Workshop for ages 8 and up on Saturday, July 30, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Science Laboratory Building, building 60, room 1506. This event is free and open to the public.

“Robots are fun, and they’re fun to build,” said Mt. SAC Physics Professor and Robotics Team advisor Daniel Anderson. “No prior experience necessary.”

Workshop participants will learn about and help Robotics Team members build robots as well as learn about a robotics competition, building components, and design.

“This workshop is designed to take the fear out of engineering and technical things,” said Anderson.

This year, Mt. SAC’s Robotics Team qualified to compete at the VEX International World Competition in Kentucky. The competition hosts teams from around the world. Mt. SAC was one of only four community colleges in the nation at the competition.

“The field of robotics is doubling every year as interest in robots grows,” said Anderson.

Minor children participating in the workshop must be accompanied by an adult at all times.

Established a year ago with its first cohort group of students, the STEM Center fosters student interest in science and provides academic support, enrichment activities, teaching opportunities, and research experience.

For more information on this event, call the Mt. SAC STEM Center at (909) 274-4224.