Category Archives: The Weekly News

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Diamond Bar– The Diamond Bar April 19 City Council meeting began by a proclamation, declaring April 2016 to be DMV Donate Life California month. The Council encouraged residents to register as donors on licenses and RD cards. On April 30, California State University, Fullerton will be hosting a Donate Life Run/Walk. The Council also recognized Encore Teppan as the business of the month for 2016.

During the public comments, the public liaison from the LA County Fire Department thanked the City for the opportunity to teach students at Diamond Bar High School how to properly perform hands on CPR. A representative for the Diamond Bar Public Library announced several events, including a harp and violin duet that will be performed by members of the LA Philharmonic on April 30 at 2 p.m. The East San Gabriel Valley Coalition for the Homeless also requested the assistance of the City in future events to provide transitional housing for the homeless.

The schedule of future events was read, including an Earth Day celebration on April 23; a Planning Commission meeting on April 26; a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on April 28; an Arbor Day celebration on April 29; and the next City Council meeting on May 3.

Finally, the Council approved all items on the consent calendar, including minutes from the City Council meeting of April 5; ratification of a check register totaling $1,176,416.83; a resolution adopting a restated 401 money purchase plan adoption agreement; authorization for the City Manager to purchase Hewlett Packard servers from CDWG; a maintenance services contract with DFS Flooring for the term of April 19, 2016 through June 30, 2019; and a contract to Control Air Conditioning Corporation for the City Hall server room HVAC replacement project.

Following the Council reports and comments, the Council adjourned to May 3, at 6:30 p.m. at 21865 Copley Dr.

Vejar Elementary Throws A Golden Birthday Party

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Vejar Elementary celebrates its 50th birthday, shown with current and former staff members, district administration, board members, and city officials.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Vejar Elementary celebrates its 50th birthday, shown with current and former staff members, district administration, board members, and city officials.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut—When Vejar Elementary marked its 50th birthday party, scores of former students, staff, principals, and teachers returned for the milestone celebration, eager to see familiar faces, and share fond memories.

Art Hermosillo was one of the first students to attend the new school as a kindergartner when the doors opened in January 1966.

“We had such a great time!” he said standing in the courtyard of his alma mater reciting every one of his teachers’ names, including the school’s first principal, Doug Rosenow.

“We were always looking forward to the holiday parties at Halloween and Christmas. And I remember the mobile library that would visit the school.”

Mary Trout, who taught at Vejar from 1977-2001, was quick to share her favorite memory at the school.

“It was our fifth grade ‘Let’s Hear it for America’ patriotic performance,” she said. “It was amazing!”

Truman Collins, who served as the school’s fourth principal from 1981 to 1988, said that he wouldn’t have missed the party.

“I’m so happy to be here!” he said while shaking hands of dear friends and colleagues.

The party included band and choir performances, memorabilia, and of course, cupcakes for everyone during a special open house held on March 24.

“We have the best staff and students in the world!” said proud Principal Jennifer De Anda to about 400 members of the extended Vejar family gathered at the event.

“It’s been an exciting year of celebration – receiving the state’s Gold Ribbon award on the year of our Golden Anniversary is the icing on the cake!” she added.

“I know this school means so much to all of us!” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor about the school that has a “neighborhood feel.”

“Teachers and staff are so committed to student achievement and truly care about every child.”

Vejar students left a long-lasting imprint on a tile wall created to commemorate for the event.

Fifth grade teacher Karen Montgomery, who has called Vejar her home for the past 27 years, used her talents to stitch together a collection of the school’s logo t-shirts to create a 50th anniversary quilt.

“My hope was that the gift would celebrate the Vejar family and add beauty and a sense of school pride for all that see it.”

The choir even led the audience in a special rendition of the Birthday Song, written by teacher Pam Acosta.

“Happy Birthday Vejar. Happy Birthday with cheer. The year was 1966 that kids first came here!”

Fifty years of school history was on display in the school library with tables filled with yearbooks and photos, news clippings, and artifacts from the past five decades, including an “antique” rotary telephone and record player.

Retired administrator Yvonne Sevilla, who also served as the school’s ninth principal, shared details of its rich history including the early years when the school was surrounded by farmland, creeks, and orchards.

“In the 1960’s things looked quite different at the school – there was no air conditioning, no carpet or phones. Men wore ties and women wore dresses everyday!” she exclaimed.

Vejar was built on the site of the Ricardo Spanish land grant and its logo – a cowboy boot- represents the Vaqueros cowboys who took care of the rancho during the 1800’s.

A colorful carved four-foot-tall version created by 5th grade student Mora Hanks and WVUSD carpenter Mike Bromberg was unveiled for the party.

The school’s longtime motto “Future Leaders Learn Here” was etched above a cowboy on horseback depicted on the plaque.

“It’s so very true!” Sevilla commented. “And for that, we need to clap and cheer right now!”

Redemption

By Michael Armijo

One day, my friend told me a story about a freshman in high school named David that touched me so deeply. This is what I call, Redemption:

David saw a kid named Ron walking home from school.  It looked like Ron was carrying home all of his books, which was strange because classes aren’t all on the same day. He thought to himself, “Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday? He must really be a nerd.” But he shrugged his shoulders and went on.

As he was walking, David saw a bunch of kids running toward Ron, knocking his books out of his arms and tripping him. Ron’s glasses went flying and landed in the grass. When David handed the glasses to him, he looked up he saw this terrible sadness in Ron’s eyes. Somehow he felt his pain.

David said, “Those guys are jerks. They really should get lives.”

Ron looked at him and lowly said, “Thanks.”

There was a slight smile on Ron’s face. It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude.  David helped him pick up his books, and as it turned out, Ron lived near David.  They talked all the way home and Ron turned out to be a pretty cool kid.

Over the next four years, Ron and David became best friends. When they were seniors, they began to think about college. Ron decided on Georgetown, and David was going to Duke. They knew that they’d always be friends, and that the miles would never be a problem.

Ron became valedictorian of their class, and had to prepare a speech for graduation. David was so glad that he didn’t have to get up there and speak.

On graduation day Ron looked great.  He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school. All the girls loved him. David was just jealous. He could see that Ron was nervous about his speech, so David smacked him on the back and said, “Hey, big guy, you’ll be great!” He looked at David with one of those looks (that really grateful one) and smiled.

As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began.

“Graduation is a time to thank those who have helped you make it through those tough years; your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach…but mostly, your friends. I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I’m going to tell you a story.”

David looked at his friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day they met. Ron talked of the day he had cleaned out his locker. He talked of how he was distraught about his life. He talked about how lonely he was. So lonely, he had planned to kill himself that weekend. But he didn’t, because his new friend unknowingly stepped in. He showed kindness. He showed compassion. He showed, by his actions, that life is worth the struggle. Ron looked hard at David and gave him a little smile.

“Thankfully, I was saved,” David continued. “My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable.”

David heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told them about his weakest moment. He saw Ron’s mom and dad looking at him and smiling with that same grateful smile.  Not until that moment did David realize its depth.

It was then that David realized how important it is to never underestimate the power of one’s actions. With one small gesture you can change a person’s life – for the better, or for the worse.

The most compelling element about the story of Ron and David’s friendship is how it relates to so many lives. Personally, I’ve hoped that somewhere within my past that I’ve been a “David” to someone I’ve met. And what fills my spirit with even more emotion is that I know I’ve felt like a “Ron” many times.

What perplexes me is that I don’t know which role I’ve felt more often.

Someone once said, “Friends are angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly.”

To so many, each day, this is true. I’ve always valued my friends with depth and sincerity. I’ve always believed in the importance of being friends, and the importance of having friends.

As the story continues, it emphasizes that there is no beginning or end. Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. But today is a gift. This reminds me that giving the ultimate gift of friendship is what I call the inner spirit of your heart, and that gives us the true feeling of redemption.

Sitting Is The New Smoking – Really!

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

By Amy Movius, MD
Too much sitting is seriously bad for your health. The sobering fact is that prolonged sitting shortens lifespan. Compounding this unsettling truth is that we live in a world where prolonged sitting is encouraged, or even mandated. We sit when we commute, when we need to do anything at a desk (think work and school), and very often when we have free time – we sit or recline while watching TV. The average person in the US sits over 9 hours a day!
Sitting – like smoking – is an independent health risk factor. This means that it is as bad for athletes or fit people who otherwise sit a lot as it is for non-exercisers. Another way to think about it is this: exercising for an hour a day or being a normal weight doesn’t “protect” you from sitting. Research has found that active people can be just as sedentary as a typical “couch potato” when not engaged in exercise. Even the highest level of exercisers did not have decreased sitting time. Ironically there is some evidence that regular exercisers may put less effort into non-exercise activity than people who don’t exercise at all. One article termed these individuals “active couch potatoes.” Unless you have a job that requires you to move around, chances are you are sitting too much regardless of how regularly you go to the gym.
The negative health effects associated with sitting include heart disease, diabetes, cancer and depression. It is also associated with shorter lifespan from “all causes.” A study published in February 2016 found that every extra hour spent sitting was associated with an increased risk of diabetes, independent of high intensity exercise. The mechanism by which sitting does such harm isn’t clear.
Fortunately, it is much easier to counter the effects of prolonged sitting than it is to quit smoking.  Here are some tips to help you get healthier:

  1. Take standing or walking breaks from sitting every hour; just 1-3 minutes seems to be protective. Reminding yourself with timers or alarms can be helpful and there are several apps available for this as well. If you can’t stand up, at least change your position frequently.
  2. Stand when you don’t have to sit at work – such as when having a conversation with a coworker or talking on the phone.
  3. When watching TV, stand up whenever the commercials are on.
  4. Use standing desks if available.
  5. For encouragement, remember that merely standing uses 30% more calories than sitting, and that can really add up.

So whether you’re a jock, a bookworm, a knitter, or an executive – stand up for yourself!  Maybe take a short walk while you’re at it!

Walnut Owners Sentenced For Smuggling

By Thom Mrozek

 

Walnut – A couple from Walnut, California and two of their import and distribution companies have been sentenced after previously pleading guilty to a wide variety of criminal activity, including smuggling Harp Seal oil into the United States from China, falsely classifying goods to avoid import duties, and importing mislabeled food into the United States from China.

Lynn Leung, 61, the former president and co-owner of the UBF Group, Inc., doing business as the Nu-Health Products Company, was ordered to serve five years of probation, which will include one year of home detention. Leung was also ordered by United States District Judge Dale S. Fischer to pay a $20,000 fine. Additionally, Leung was banned from working as a manager, officer or director of any business entity – including her own family companies – for a period of five years.

Daniel Fu, 65, Leung’s husband and the former vice-president of UBF Group, Inc., was also sentenced Monday to five years of probation, ordered to spend six months under home detention and fined $20,000. During the period of probation, Fu is also banned from working as a manager, officer or director of any business entity – including his own family companies.

Leung and Fu jointly owned and operated a number of local dietary supplement import and distribution companies doing business as the Nu-Health Products Company, including UBF Group, Inc. and ASN Group, Inc.

Judge Fischer also sentenced UBF Group, Inc., ordering it to pay a total monetary penalty of $1.29 million. The company was ordered to pay a $230,000 fine, to forfeit $941,000 in proceeds derived from criminal activity, and to pay $119,000 in restitution to the United States Customs and Border Protection agency for import duties it avoided as a result of the criminal scheme.

ASN Group, Inc., also on Monday was sentenced to pay a $30,000 criminal fine and ordered to implement a compliance program designed to insure compliance with all relevant United States Food and Drug Act requirements and regulations.

Leung and Fu previously pleaded guilty to introducing misbranded food into interstate commerce with the intent to defraud or mislead. The “food” at issue consisted of millions of capsules of honey bee royal jelly – dietary supplements that were falsely and misleadingly described in import records as “aloe vera.” The mislabeled dietary supplements were purchased from UBF Group, Inc.’s supplier in China, the Sirio Pharma Company, Ltd. Both Leung and Fu admitted that the royal jelly was falsely described in import and export documents because Sirio Pharma lacked regulatory certificates required for export of the honey bee products from China.

“Laws protecting wildlife are also designed to protect consumers, who deserve to know that products are legally obtained and do not pose a threat to their health,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “Prosecutions like this one demonstrate the commitment of my office and our partner regulatory agencies to stop crimes motivated by greed that threaten our environment.”

UBF Group, Inc. previously pleaded guilty to two felonies, specifically smuggling 4 million capsules of Harp Seal oil into the United States (the shipments were falsely labeled as fish oil) and smuggling falsely classified Chinese goods into the United State to avoid payment of import duties. Harp Seals are protected by the federal Marine Mammal Protection Act, which forbids importation of any seals or seal parts, except for scientific or educational purposes. By falsely classifying the value of its imported products on customs documents, UBF Group, Inc. avoided payment of at least $119,000 in import duties legally owed on its Chinese merchandise.

ASN Group, Inc. previously pleaded guilty to a misdemeanor offense of introducing mislabeled food into interstate and foreign commerce.

The Chinese supplier, Sirio Pharma Company, previously pleaded guilty in this case to wildlife trafficking and was ordered to pay $500,000 in monetary fines and penalties. Sirio Pharma admitted that employees of the Nu-Health Products Company asked Sirro Pharma to falsely label certain products, including Harp Seal oil and honey bee products, and invoice its shipments of various dietary products in a manner that helped the Nu-Health Products Company to disguise the true cost of the products and their true description.

“This case is victory for protected species everywhere,” said Eileen Sobeck, assistant administrator for NOAA Fisheries. “Taking enforcement actions against those who violate the laws protecting marine species will always be a top enforcement priority.”

This case was investigated by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration – Office of Law Enforcement, the United States Food and Drug Administration – Office of Criminal Investigations, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigation.

 

Did You Know?

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

New Study Reveals Abnormally Low Blood Flow To NFL Players’ Brains

By Brittany Thomas

With concern growing in recent years about the long-term impact of head trauma in the NFL, a new study has revealed abnormal areas of low blood flow in the brains of current and retired professional football players.

Researchers made their discovery using sophisticated neuroimaging and analytics, according to the study, published in the Journal of Alzheimer’s Disease.

“Our findings raise the potential for better diagnosis and treatment for people with football-related head trauma,” says lead author Daniel G. Amen, MD, founder and head of Amen Clinics (www.amenclinics.com) in Costa Mesa, Calif.

The study examined the brains of 161 retired and current NFL players, the largest group of players investigated to date. Their average age was 52.

The researchers looked at every region of the brain and were able to identify areas of abnormally low blood flow. They did this using cerebral-perfusion imaging with SPECT (single-photon emission computed tomography.)

Combining this information with a leading-edge quantitative approach called machine learning, the researchers were able to distinguish NFL players with abnormal brain patterns compared to a healthy control group with 92 to 94 percent accuracy.

 “Without functional imaging studies like SPECT, it is very difficult to know if brain trauma is present and which areas are affected,” Amen says.

“Structural studies often appear normal, but what we can do better with functional neuroimaging with SPECT is not only pinpoint specific areas of the brain that are unhealthy with low blood flow, but also demonstrate their improvement with successful brain-rehabilitation treatments in persons like football players.”

Concern about head trauma in professional football players has risen in recent years, and was the subject of the 2015 feature film “Concussion” starring Will Smith. Dr. Bennet Omalu, whom Smith portrayed in the movie, was one of the co-authors of this study.

“What our current work is doing in addition to other imaging modalities builds the foundation between identifying the negative effects of head trauma on the brain while the patient is still alive so that we can intervene with better treatments,” Omalu says.

Investigators determined that on average the NFL players had lower blood flow in 36 areas of the brain. The decreased blood flow in six regions of the brain was the most important in determining who had football-related health trauma. Those brain regions were: anterior superior temporal lobes, rolandic operculum, insula, superior temporal poles, precuneus and cerebellar vermis.

These same regions function in memory, mood, and learning. When damaged, they can produce cognitive and psychiatric problems as evidenced by the fact that 83 percent of players in this study had memory problems and 29 percent had a history of depression.

Previous studies in which the brains of deceased players were studied revealed high incidents of CTE (chronic traumatic encephalopathy), a progressive degenerative disease that afflicts people who have suffered repeated concussions and traumatic brain injuries.

Chino Valley National Junior Honor Society Inductees

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – Heritage Middle School announced their 2016 National Junior Honor Society inductees last week. The induction ceremony took place on April 20 at 6 p.m., where each of the recipients were honored.

The National Junior Honor Society inductees are students who have demonstrated high standards of scholarship, leadership, service, citizenship, and character.

Congratulations to the following 2016 National Junior Honor Society inductees:

  • Luis Acosta
  • Alicen Astorga
  • Camille Call
  • Madisen Cornelius
  • Magali Gomez
  • McKenna Harris
  • Jacob Hogan
  • Joelle Krogh
  • Kyra Mastin
  • Ashley McGuffey
  • Madison Morin
  • Brittany Pierce
  • Rachel Plumb
  • Emery Rock
  • Keller Rock
  • Rudy Rodriguez
  • Jessica Shuck
  • Melissa Soto
  • Emily Thompson
  • Arley Tucker
  • Keiana Vreyens
  • Abigail Watson

Girl Raises Awareness

A four-year-old is expected to donate her hair at local Relay For Life

Staff Reports

Walnut – A four-year-old girl is raising awareness of the American Cancer Society’s services and programs through her fundraising efforts for this year’s Relay For Life of Walnut Valley.

The local Relay For Life will be held Saturday, June 25 to Sunday, June 16 from 9 am to 9 pm at Suzanne Middle School.

Four year-old-Isabella Encinas’ fundraiser started after she asked her parents if she could donate her hair to a child battling cancer. “With her father’s blessing and her mother’s passion for a cancer free world, Isabella was granted permission to receive her first haircut ever, on the premise that she would raise $1000 for this year’s American Cancer Society’s Relay For Life of Walnut Valley,” according to a City of Walnut news release.

If Isabella is able to meet her fundraising goal by the event date, then she will be sharing in the joy of having her first haircut on the day of Relay and making a difference in another child’s life, according to the news release.

Isabella invites you to join her in this life enriching opportunity by either donating to her fundraising efforts or consider joining her for a haircut on the day of Relay. Hair donations will be made to the non-profit organization Wigs for Kids.

To make a monetary donation to her campaign, please visit http://main.acsevents.org/goto/isabellarelays.

If you are interested in donating your hair, please contact Gabriela Encinas at (626) 388-7444 to schedule your haircut on the day of Relay or arrange pick-up. Keep in mind that hair donations must be 12 inches in length and free from bleaching or chemicals.

“Together we can Paint the World Purple and make great strides for a cancer free tomorrow.”

 

IE News: Information Sought For Stabbing

Photo courtesy: Corona Police Department The suspect’s vehicle is believed to be a solid light/medium colored late 1990’s Toyota sedan, as pictured above.

Photo courtesy: Corona Police Department
The suspect’s vehicle is believed to be a solid light/medium colored late 1990’s Toyota sedan, as pictured above.

Staff Reports

Corona– The Corona Police Department is still searching for information regarding a stabbing that took place at the Corona City Park a few months ago. The Police Department recently sent out a news release requesting the public’s assistance in identifying a vehicle that may have been involved in the stabbing death of Barnabas William “Will” Crites, 18.

On February 26, 2016 at approximately 8:43 p.m., Barnabas William Crites was assaulted near the City Park skate park located at 930 E. Sixth St., Corona, and later died from his injuries, according to the Corona Police Department. The suspect’s vehicle is believed to be a solid light/medium colored late 1990’s Toyota sedan. The suspect’s vehicle was captured leaving the scene in a surveillance video from the area.

Detectives hope someone may recognize the vehicle in the surveillance photograph to assist in the investigation. If you have any information we ask that you please contact Senior Detective Dan Bloomfield at 951-817-5767. If you wish to remain anonymous, contact the Corona Police Department Tip-line at 951-817-5873.

Photo courtesy: Corona Police Department A picture of the suspect's car leaving the scene.

Photo courtesy: Corona Police Department
A picture of the suspect’s car leaving the scene.

Visit Basically BOOKS in Diamond Bar

Diamond Bar Friends of the Library

Diamond Bar – Are you looking for a great volunteer experience in Diamond Bar?  Basically BOOKS, the Friends of the Diamond Bar Library two non-profit bookstores, are friendly places serving the community as a resource for school, work and pleasure reading at exceptionally low prices.  Bookstore Manager Peggy Murphy is actively looking for new volunteers to staff both locations at 23447 Golden Springs Road (near the intersection of Golden Springs and Diamond Bar Boulevard) and the bookstore at the Diamond Bar Library, 21800 Copley Drive (across from the AQMD Building).  All proceeds from both Basically BOOKS directly benefit the Diamond Bar Library.

There are many special sales throughout the month so stop by both of our beautiful locations.  Basically BOOKS gift certificates are available and make great birthday gifts.

The Diamond Bar Friends’ Book Group meets the fourth Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m. at Basically BOOKS on Golden Springs.  The Tuesday, May 24 meeting will feature After Claire by Marjorie Eccles.  The June 28 selection will be Istanbul Passage by Joseph Kanon.  New members are always welcome.

For more information visit the Diamond Bar Friends of the Library website at http://www.dblibraryfriends.org or the Diamond Bar Library at http://www.colapublib.org/libs/diamondbar.

Straight Talk with Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

“My neck and shoulder have been hurting me”

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Dear Dr. Danice,

My neck and shoulder have been bothering me for a long time.  When I get chiropractic adjustments it only feels better for three of four days.  My friend told me that I should have an MRI because her aunt had shoulder pain for a long time and it turned out to be lung cancer.  I have never heard of this before.  Is it true?  I am only thirty one.

Dawn

 

Dear Dawn,

First I would like to help you understand that there is more involved in maintaining a healthy structure.  I believe there is immense value in chiropractic care but you’ve only been getting mild results. If it were me, I would alternate my adjustments with deep tissue therapeutic massage to see if that improves your outcome.   Addressing both your spine and muscles just might give you the relief you seek.  If this yields no better results after one month of weekly sessions with both therapies, then I would move on to your medical doctor to take a look at your issue.  Hope you start feeling better soon.

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.

 

Powdered Alcohol Ban Passes Test

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Courtesy of Senator Bob Huff’s Office

Legislation that would ban powdered alcohol, or “Palcohol,” in California easily passed its first fiscal test earlier this month, receiving unanimous support from the Senate Appropriations Committee. SB 819 would make California the 30th state to ban or restrict the sale of this dangerous product. Given that this is Distracted Driving Awareness Month in California, this bill takes on even more importance.

Powdered alcohol is a freeze dried version of alcohol which comes in a small pouch and is the equivalent of a shot of alcohol. The crystallized formula becomes a cocktail once mixed with water. Although the product isn’t sold in stores yet, labeling was approved by the U.S. Alcohol and Tobacco Tax and Trade Bureau in 2014.

“The Appropriations Committee concluded that my legislation does not present any significant state cost to taxpayers and I’m happy with that determination,” said Senator Huff. “This product must not be allowed to reach store shelves. It presents an array of potential health problems as it can be snorted, added to energy drinks, added to fruit and slipped to unknowing recipients, or even added to beverages already containing alcohol in an attempt to create a dangerously potent concoction,” said Senator Huff.

According to a national advocacy group Alcohol Justice, California is the largest alcohol market in the U.S. and suffers the most alcohol-related harm. A 2013 study from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control found that the societal costs for binge drinking are higher in California than in any other state: $32 billion for one year of excessive alcoholic consumption. Problems caused by binge drinking include lost work productivity, poor health, crime, automobile accidents, property damage and death.

SB 819 has earned the support of numerous organizations, including Alcohol Justice, California Alcohol Policy Alliance, California Council on Alcohol Problems, California District Attorneys Association, California Friday Night Live Partnership, California State Sheriffs’ Association, Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles Drug and Alcohol Policy Alliance.

The California College and University Police Chiefs Association (CCUPCA), which deals with many alcohol related problems on college campuses, recently weighed in with the following warning:

“Our organization is responsible for the protection of over three million students and employees at the campuses those students attend,” the CCUPCA stated in a letter to Huff’s office. “We are already on the front lines of criminal behavior rooted in overconsumption of alcohol and the injection of so-called Palcohol into the campus equation will only exacerbate existing problems.”

“I’m personally pleased that this issue has achieved such widespread bipartisan support, including the co-authorship of Senate President pro-Tem Kevin de León,” said Senator Huff. “I continue to work closely with Assemblymember Jacqui Irwin (D-Thousand Oaks) on a companion measure that has been introduced in the Assembly, AB 1554. Assemblymember Irwin is also a principal coauthor of my bill,” added Huff.

Treat Your Mom To The Whole Enchilada!

The Whole Enchilada's Grilled Chicken Tostada with Mango Salsa

The Whole Enchilada’s Grilled Chicken Tostada with Mango Salsa

By Claire Lewis

Diamond Bar – Treat Mom to a wonderful Mother’s Day at The Whole Enchilada!  Moms deserve to have the day off and relax, and enjoy a delicious meal of their Mexican favorites – like sizzling Fajitas, Carnitas, or Chili Colorado!  And don’t forget to treat Mom to some Mexican Kaluha Flan or Rio Grande Mud Pie after the meal!

Having a Mother’s Day Fiesta at home?  Why not let the party come to you by having The Whole Enchilada cater your celebration? Delectable handmade tamales – available year round – as well as street tacos and taquitos with all the fixings can be the hit of your party.

“All our food is made fresh daily,” says Lil Palmer of The Whole Enchilada.

From specialties and favorites of the house to healthy, lighter options, The Whole Enchilada offers fresh, authentic Mexican recipes their resident chef brought from their homeland. They guarantee you will enjoy your dining experience.

The celebration doesn’t stop with just one visit.  The Whole Enchilada has gift cards available for purchase in person or online.  It’s the perfect gift for Moms and Grads!  And be sure to ask about the Combo Punch Card, Enchilada Bucks, and Kids Club.

The restaurant has been in business for over 30 years, offering a variety of tasty Mexican dishes and outstanding service.  The Whole Enchilada wants to become your local favorite, and they look forward to helping you celebrate the special moments in your life.

Don’t deny your taste buds this Mother’s Day, visit the Whole Enchilada soon!

The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., (at Grand Avenue, in Diamond Bar). You can reach them at (909) 861-5340, and visit their website at www.wholeenchilada.com.See their ad on the back page of this publication.

 

Walnut High Unveils New Swimming Pool

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Senior Derek Wan dives into the clear blue during the grand reopening at Walnut High.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Senior Derek Wan dives into the clear blue during the grand reopening at Walnut High.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut- Community members caught their first glimpse of the renovated Aquatics Center at Walnut High School during a poolside event on April 20.

“It’s a great day to celebrate the opening of our new pool!” said Principal Brandon Dade as he welcomed parents, students, staff, and officials gathered for the celebration.

The grand reopening and ribbon cutting ceremony marked the completion of the $2.3 million construction project.

The nine-lane competition venue and upgraded facilities were made possible by voter approval of Bond Measures S & Y passed in November 2007.

“I want to thank the parents, because without them, we would not have this today,” said Board President Helen Hall.  “Our parents really care in Walnut Valley!”

The construction began in July 2015 with the removal of the outdated swimming pool and surrounding decking.

For the past several months Mustang swim and water polo teams have been practicing and competing at Diamond Bar High.

“I’m appreciative of our coaches and administration that have been so flexible during this project,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Walnut students and staff were excited to host their first competition in the new 304,603-gallon swimming pool immediately following the ceremony.

“We’ve had a great team for several years and now we have a pool that represents the quality of our program,” said head swim coach, Ed Gautreau. “I’m happy that we can call this our home again!”

“The athletic department would like to thank everyone that was instrumental in the modernization of our aquatic facility,” said director Jerry Person.

The swim complex features new decking and lighting, locker rooms with men’s and women’s restrooms, coach’s room, pool storage building, mechanical room, pool equipment building and supplies, public restrooms, galvanized iron fencing, aluminum bleachers with shade structure, and scoreboard.

After the ribbon cutting, swim team and water polo members took to the blocks for their first official dive.

Senior swim captain Leah Rickard said joining the swim team four years ago was one of the best decisions of her life.

“Sports programs teach respect, self motivation, time management, and how to be a team player,” she said.

“It is on this deck that I’ve not only grown as a swimmer, but also as a person and a leader.”

The new aquatics center will primarily be used for the school’s swim program and physical education classes, but will soon be open to the community for recreational activities during the summer as well.

“Walnut High School Aquatics has a strong tradition that will be carried on for many years to come,” Person added.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Walnut High swim team and water polo members celebrate at the opening of the new aquatics center. Shown: Erin De Anda, Emily Honng, Leah Rickard, Jarren Peng, Garrett Gautreau, Jerry Chen, and Derek Wan.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Walnut High swim team and water polo members celebrate at the opening of the new aquatics center. Shown: Erin De Anda, Emily Honng, Leah Rickard, Jarren Peng, Garrett Gautreau, Jerry Chen, and Derek Wan.

Being Present

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

It’s a very exciting time to be alive.  I love the fact that so very many of us are going back to yoga and meditation and looking within for our own answers.  There seems to be this search for peacefulness and contentment.  There is whole new section in the bookstores devoted to self-help.  Many of these books teach mediation and act as guides for teaching the whole concept of being mindful or present.

Let me start by explaining the whole concept.  If we think about somebody truly being present, they are what we refer to as “being in the moment”.  This means there is nothing else going on in your mind and you are totally focused on what you are doing and saying.  You’re not thinking about what you need to do next or where you need to be, you are just existing in that moment.  Think about the last time you were able to do this or if you really ever have. Meditation helps us clear our minds totally and helps us be mindful.  If we can learn to keep our minds uncluttered, we will become much more effective human beings.  We will feel every aspect of our lives and begin to appreciate even the simplest things.

If you could find something that would improve the quality of your life and didn’t cost you a dime, wouldn’t you be foolish at least not to try it?  I recently attended a conference on mindfulness and was told how much research is being around the subject of meditation. It is being used to help people deal with pain, lower one’s blood pressure, help with prevention for heart attacks and many other stress related illnesses, give hope and strength to the terminally ill, and many other ways as well.

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 page her at (909)229-0727.  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.

Chino Man Among 11 Arrested For Child Porn

Staff Reports

Chino – A Chino man and a former Los Angeles City Fire Department engineer was among 11 who were arrested for allegedly using peer-to-peer file-sharing programs to receive and possess – and, in some cases, distribute – child pornography.

Luis Gutierrez, 49, of Chino, was arrested on Tuesday, April 26 after a three-year investigation called Operation “Wide Net,” which was conducted by the Los Angeles Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force.

Gutierrez was previously indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of receiving child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography obtained through the use of the Ares file-sharing program, according to Thom Mrozek, Public Affairs Officer of the United States Attorney’s Office. Gutierrez was also an engineer with the Los Angeles City Fire Department in 2013 at the time of the alleged offenses, and investigators believe that he used Internet connections at three different fire stations to download the child pornography found on his computer, according to Mrozek.

Gutierrez was among eight indictments filed in United States District Court, in addition to three cases filed by local prosecutors.

Gerald Patrick Beaver, 53, of Cerritos, was also arrested on April 26 after undercover officers allegedly observed him offering to distribute child pornography over the Internet using the Gigatribe file-sharing program. A federal grand jury previously indicted Beaver and charged him with one count of advertising child pornography, two counts of distributing child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography, according to US Attorney’s Office. When a search was executed at Beaver’s home, authorities allegedly found more than 6,000 images and more than 400 videos of child pornography on his computer.

According to the US Attorney’s Office, the six other defendants that were arrested as a result of federal indictments obtained as part of Operation Wide Net were:

  • Jace Jeanes, 39, of Torrance, is charged with receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography that he allegedly obtained using the BitTorrent file-sharing program. Jeanes allegedly possessed more than 20,000 images and videos of child pornography on computer equipment found during a search of his residence.
  • Steven David Lavinsky, 58, of Long Beach, is charged in a three-count indictment with advertising, distributing and possessing child pornography in a case involving the Gigatribe file-sharing program.
  • Kenneth Martin Medellin, 55, of Carson, is charged with receipt of child pornography and possession of child pornography using the Limewire file-sharing program.
  • Antonio Joseph Garcia II, 41, of Upland, is charged with four counts of distributing child pornography, one count of receiving child pornography, and two counts of possessing child pornography. In addition to peer to peer file sharing, Garcia also allegedly sent and received child pornography by e-mail.
  • Michael Brian Perry, 37, of Pasadena, is charged in a three-count indictment that accuses him of advertising, distributing and possessing child pornography.
  • Curtis Audun Larssen, 33, of Los Angeles, is charged with receipt and possession of child pornography using the Ares file-sharing program.

As part of Operation Wide Net, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has also charged three defendants in Los Angeles Superior Court with possession of child pornography. The three state court defendants include Michael Becerra, 30, of Long Beach; Cristian Carrasco, 23, of Compton; and Andre Desire Loustau, 71, of Van Nuys. They were also taken into custody on April 26.

Previously, prosecutors in the United States Attorney’s Office also charged the following two defendants as part of the Operation Wide Net:

  • James Breton Butler, 51, of Sherman Oaks, who has agreed to plead guilty to possession of child pornography, admitting that “he possessed several hundred thousand images of child pornography, as well as more than 20,000 videos of child pornography” obtained through the Ares file-sharing program. In a plea agreement filed yesterday, Butler agreed to plead guilty prior to being indicted. Butler will make his initial appearance in federal court next month.
  • David John Gastelum, 53, of Palmdale, was arrested on March 10 after being named in an indictment that charges him with two counts of receiving child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography using the Ares file-sharing program. Gastelum has pleaded not guilty and is scheduled to go on trial on August 9.

Over the past three years, Operation Wide Net has resulted in a total of more than 80 defendants being prosecuted for child pornography offenses and the execution of over 100 federal and state search warrants in the Los Angeles area.

“Today’s announcement illustrates the prevalence of this crime and law enforcement actions should send a message that peer-to-peer networks do not shield criminals from prosecution,” said Jim Struyk, the Acting Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office.

“File-sharing software has become increasingly popular with collectors and producers of child pornography because they mistakenly believe the technology shields them and their reprehensible criminal acts from detection,” said Mark Selby, acting special agent in charge for HSI Los Angeles. “But as today’s arrests make clear, cyberspace affords these predators no refuge from justice. HSI, together with its law enforcement partners, will continue to use every tool and resource at our disposal to pursue those who prey on and wantonly exploit the most vulnerable among us.”

The charge of advertising child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years, according to the US Attorney’s Office. Distribution of child pornography and receipt of child pornography each carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years. The charge of possession of child pornography carries a statutory maximum sentence of 10 or 20 years in federal prison, depending on the nature of the images the defendant possessed.

In addition, President Barack Obama has declared April 2016 as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, during which “we recommit to giving every child a chance to succeed and to ensuring that every child grows up in a safe, stable, and nurturing environment that is free from abuse and neglect.”

Last month, Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch released the 2016 National Strategy for Child Exploitation Prevention and Interdiction (http://go.usa.gov/cuWMR). The strategy provides a comprehensive threat assessment of the nature and scope of the current dangers facing our nation’s children, including child pornography offenses, sextortion and live-streaming of child sexual abuse, child sex trafficking, child sex tourism and sex offense registry violations.

History 101

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

George Washington Gives First Presidential Inaugural Address
Courtesy of History.com
On April 30, 1789, George Washington is sworn in as the first American president and delivers the first inaugural speech at Federal Hall in New York City. Elements of the ceremony set tradition; presidential inaugurations have deviated little in the two centuries since Washington’s inauguration.
In front of 10,000 spectators, Washington appeared in a plain brown broadcloth suit holding a ceremonial army sword. At 6′3, Washington presented an impressive and solemn figure as he took the oath of office standing on the second balcony of Federal Hall. With Vice President John Adams standing beside him, Washington repeated the words prompted by Chancellor Robert R. Livingston, kissed the bible and then went to the Senate chamber to deliver his inaugural address.
Observers noted that Washington appeared as if he would have preferred facing cannon and musket fire to taking the political helm of the country. He fidgeted, with his hand in one pocket, and spoke in a low, sometimes inaudible voice while he reiterated the mixed emotions of anxiety and honor he felt in assuming the role of president. For the most part, his address consisted of generalities, but he directly addressed the need for a strong Constitution and Bill of Rights and frequently emphasized the public good. He told the House of Representatives that he declined to be paid beyond such actual expenditures as the public good may be thought to require. In deference to the power of Congress, Washington promised to give way to my entire confidence in your discernment and pursuit of the public good.
After delivering his address, Washington walked up Broadway with a group of legislators and local political leaders to pray at St. Paul’s Chapel. Later, he made the humble and astute observation that his presidency, and the nation itself, was an experiment.

May I Have Your Attention Please?

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

We have all been watching and waiting for El Niño.  The weather man has been predicting heavy rain all winter, but we have not seen much in Southern California.

Our drought has been the topic of conversation for months.  The Governor of California and our state legislature has mandated 25% reduction in water consumption.

Everyone is looking for ways to conserve water.  We see signs posted in the medians of our roads and grass has been replaced by wood chips.   Even my local gym is asking members to reduce water usage.  I guess that means less exercise and fewer showers!

I was reading a passage in the Bible recently that specifically mentioned a drought.  The Prophet Jeremiah told the people of Israel 2500 years ago that God had withheld rain because they had turned away from following Him. (Jeremiah 14:1-10)

Jeremiah said that water wells were empty, farmers were dismayed, the soil was cracked and the wild animals could not find water for their young.  It was a grim scene in a land that was dependent on rain to survive.

At another time, an Old Testament Prophet named Elijah predicted that it would not rain in Israel for three years.  It got the attention of the people.  Even the King’s servants had trouble finding water (I Kings 17 & 18).

Why does a drought get our attention? I suppose it reminds us how dependent we are on the weather.  We are just as dependent on rain and snow today as people were in ancient times.

A drought also reminds us that this planet we live on is fragile and delicate.  It has a remarkable system where rain falls from the sky, drains back to the oceans and is recycled back into rain and snow again.  Rain enables crops to grow, fruit to flourish, and provides water for us to use and drink.

The Apostle Paul said, “God has shown His kindness by giving us rain from heaven and crops in their seasons; He provides us with plenty of food and fills our hearts with joy”(Acts 14:17).  In Acts 17:27, Paul said, “He did this so that men would seek Him and find Him.”

In spite of all of our scientific knowledge and technological advances, we are still dependent on rain, snow and water.  Without these basic things that God provides, life as we know it would cease to exist.

I wonder if God is trying to get our attention.  I wonder if we are so busy and distracted that we have failed to acknowledge the existence of God and our need of Him.  I wonder if He is saying, “May I have your attention please?”

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 4.30.16

2016-Apr30-Weekly-COVERThe 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-Apr30-Weekly-WEB

Fatal Traffic Collision In Chino

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Courtesy City of Chino

Chino– A man suffered fatal injuries and another was airlifted with serious injuries after being hit by a vehicle while performing work on Edison Ave. The fatal traffic collision took place on Wednesday, April 13.

At approximately 4:12 p.m., Officers responded to an injury traffic collision in the 5900 block of Edison Ave. The collision involved a 2011 Toyota Yaris and a 2006 Ford F550 work truck with a warning signal trailer attached.

A preliminary investigation determined that the Toyota, driven by Bobby Bustos, 26 of Corona, was traveling eastbound in the 5900 block of Edison Ave. when he collided into the signal trailer.  The trailer was stopped in the Eastbound lane of Edison Ave.

At the time of the collision, the two victims, performing work duties for a landscaping company, were in the process of attaching the trailer to the truck. Due to the collision, both victims were pinned between the trailer and the truck.

Jose Chicas, 31 of Ontario, died instantly at the scene. The other male victim suffered severe, but non-life threatening injuries and was airlifted to a local hospital for treatment. Bustos was uninjured.

During the investigation, Edison Ave. was closed for approximately six hours between Oaks Ave. and Magnolia Ave. The cause of the collision is still under investigation.

Please contact Chino PD, Traffic Unit, Corporal Trosper if you have any information regarding the case: strosper@chinopd.org or (909) 334-3153.