The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: 2016-Apr9-Weekly-WEB
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Diamond Bar City Council Recap
By Natalie Kim
DIAMOND BAR-The March 22 Diamond Bar Council meeting began with a presentation to Diamond Bar High School student Hailey Shi, who won first place in the 17th Annual Holocaust Art & Writing contest at Chapman University.
Following public comments, the schedule of future events was read, which included the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on March 24 at 7 p.m.; the Annual Easter Egg Hunt on March 26 at 10 a.m. at Pantera Park; the State of the City address on March 30 at 6 p.m.; and the next City Council meeting on April 5 at 6:30 p.m.
Next, the Council approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including the minutes from the March 1 City Council meeting; the Parks and Recreation minutes from the January 28 meeting; the Planning Commission minutes from the January 26 and February 23 meetings; ratification of a check register totaling $1,680,851.92; authorization of the City Manager to enter into a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Industry, establishing a reimbursement agreement for consultant costs related to the preparation of joint Fastlane Tiger Transportation funding grant applications; and a maintenance agreement for the Lemon Avenue undercrossing with the State of California, related to the construction of a new freeway interchange at Lemon Ave at State Route 60. The Council also appropriated $180,000 from General Fund Reserves and approved a contract with Public Finance Strategies, LLC.
Following Council Member reports and comments, the council adjourned to April 5 at 6:30 p.m. at 21865 Copley Dr, Diamond Bar.
Prince Charming
By Michael Armijo
I thought it was a war movie, or maybe a history movie; the previews were very realistic. Children played ball while large planes flew overhead. The camera shot followed the bombs as they landed on the enormous ships. I could see the determined look in the crewman’s eyes as he fired the machine guns at the planes in the sky above. It seemed like a pretty cool action movie, but I was taken by a deep surprise as a love story unfolded while watching, “Pearl Harbor.”
Picture this: a young woman departs from a train, and you can’t help but notice the beautiful glow on her face. She smiles, convincingly, and carries herself as though her life was like a child’s dream. The gleam in her eye, the uncontrollable smile, the happy pitch in her voice – she is most definitely in love.
As she approaches a young man, he stands there, handsomely, in his striking uniform. With flowers in hand and hat in place, his love beams like a proud 10-year-old who has hit the winning home run. He obviously desires to be near her. He’s in love; free from judgment, free from dysfunction. He stands there and confesses his love for her, and she believes him, because he means it. He means every syllable, every vowel, and every adjective that comes out of his mouth. He loves her as no other. He loves her unconditionally.
When I saw the reflection of his heart on her face, when I saw her overcome with the power of emotion, I saw how she felt, and it came to me- it was obvious that she felt the way she did because he loved her, completely. He stood there in his fairytale book stance, and he proved he was, undeniably, the man of her dreams.
The look in her eyes, the love in her smile, was just captivating. It was right then that I knew he was responsible for her love, and I understood that as men, we are responsible for our partner’s love. It’s our responsibility to provide a strong, loving arena for the one we love, so they have no choice but to feel that life is like a Hollywood movie with a storybook ending. I also realized that it’s been years since I’ve seen that movie-like emotion in a woman’s smile. And something surprising came to me: I am no Prince Charming.
I wondered what it would be like to be someone who was capable of giving their heart to someone else, unconditionally, uncontrollably. I wondered what it would take to love someone and to feel free from fear, to give it all up, opening myself to possible pain.
I wanted to be like that actor. I wanted to be someone who was capable of all the emotion that comes with love. But more surprisingly, I wanted that stature in life, and not for me, but for my partner. I wanted to become something that I currently was not, so that I could someday stand there like that actor did, at the train station, while my love’s heart beamed with the desire to be with me. I wanted to be free from all of life’s historical pains, egos, anger, frustration, and unhappiness, so that I could be responsible for her undying love. I wanted her to have this life because deep in my heart I know she deserves it. She deserves to feel the way that young woman did at the train station. She deserves every minute of that joy.
Yes, it was just a movie, but to me, today, it’s real life. Because of a simple, believable moment manufactured by Hollywood, I will do all I can for the woman I love, the love that she deserves. I’m trying my best by forgiving past pain and experiences. I’m letting go of agony that bad love once provided. I’m leaving all the insecurities and the egos in the past. I will be giving her my heart. I’ll hold her hand. I’ll open her doors. And I’ll be patient. I’ll learn how to apologize more often. I’ll be her friend, and I’ll let her be my friend. I’ll call her, sometimes just to tell her “hi,” or “I love you,” and I’ll have no ulterior motive. I’ll work so hard to earn her trust, to prove to her that I’m capable of loving. I’m learning how to love again.
And I know that a day will come when she’ll smile brightly. She’ll stand there, and her eyes will glisten with happiness. Her hand will clasp my own. Her hug will be trusting and convincing. She’ll whisper in my ear that she loves me. And she will smile uncontrollably. Then I will know in my heart that that I’ve finally provided her with her fairytale, her movie-like love. And when that day comes I will be able to feel her heart from a million miles away, and I’ll know that I’ll finally, become what she deserves. Her Prince Charming
Walnut Valley Trustees Honor Stand Out Students, Community Members
Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Justin Tran, a Maple Hill Elementary kindergartner, was honored as a Super Star Student on March 16. Shown with Principal Nancy Stingley, teacher Lisa Esse, librarian Tuyet Van Nguyen, family members, and Board President Helen Hall.
By Kelli Gile
WALNUT– The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees recognized four stellar students and community members during the March 16 meeting.
Maple Hill kindergartner Justin Tran was lauded with the Super Star Student Award. Justin was recently named a winner in the “Ticket to Adventure” bookmark contest sponsored by the Los Angeles County Public Library. Each fall, students submit original artwork in the K-12 competition.
“Justin is the only kindergartener that won,” exclaimed librarian Tuyet Van Nguyen. “This is a very big deal for our school – we haven’t had a winner in 11 years!”
“He is a wonderful student, extremely caring and compassionate, and gives 110% every day,” described teacher Lisa Delio. “Justin is one of those little boys who will be a great leader in our community someday. I am extremely proud of him. Justin is an all-around Maple Hill super star!” she added.
Justin passed out copies of his winning bookmark as a gift for the Board members and District officials.
Global Mission Church was honored with the Partner in Education Award. For the past two years, the Diamond Bar church has supported Maple Hill’s character education program by sponsoring an assembly, providing teacher materials, and purchasing over 500 books for students.
Last year, while the school was renovating its library, Global Mission Church stepped up and provided all new shelving in the two rooms. In addition, members donated over new 200 books for the library.
“We are so very proud to have them as our community partners!” said Principal Nancy Stingley.
Westhoff Elementary 5th grader Bella Liu was recognized with the Super Star Student Award.
“Bella exemplifies all character traits taught at Westhoff,” said Principal Denise Rendon. “Kindness and respect are ingrained in who she is as a person.”
Bella is a quiet leader who encourages classmates to do their best on a daily basis. She is humble, yet willing to take charge and get things done.
“The reason Bella shines is that she consistently makes the right choices – being safe, respectful, and responsible – with a smile on her face and joy in her heart,” Rendon added. “Bella will be a huge success next year at Suzanne Middle School.”
Westhoff volunteer Gary Chow, who has served as longtime advisor, mentor, and community partner, was honored with the Partner in Education Award.
Last year, Gary generously donated funds that helped launch the school’s robotic program for 4th grade students. He also helped to bring popular STEM program to 5th graders through another donation made this year.
“It is rewarding to watch the progress of the students as they benefit from a second year of robotics,” said Rendon.
When Gary visits classes to watch student progress, the kids love to show off their tech skills.
“He has made our dream of providing our students a robotic curriculum that enriches and links them to middle school and beyond. We are very grateful!” she added.
Foods You Should Always Buy Organic
Photo courtesy of Dr. Weil080700
Courtesy of Dr. Andrew Weil
The Environmental Working Group (EWG), a nonprofit organization that advocates for policies that protect global and individual health, is trying to spread the word about one of its most valuable pieces of research – a Shoppers’ Guide to Pesticides in Produce. The 2015 version is based on the results of pesticide tests performed on produce and collected by federal agencies from the past nine years.
Nearly all of the data used took into account how people typically wash and prepare produce – for example, apples were washed and bananas peeled before testing. The following “Dirty Dozen Plus” had the highest pesticide load, making them the most important to buy organic versions – or to grow them organically yourself:
• Apples
• Peaches
• Nectarines
• Strawberries
• Grapes
• Celery
• Spinach
• Sweet Bell Peppers
• Cucumbers
• Cherry Tomatoes
• Snap Peas (Imported)
• Potatoes
• Hot Peppers
• Kale
• Collard Greens
Why should you care about pesticides? The EWG points out that there is a growing consensus in the scientific community that small doses of pesticides and other chemicals can have adverse effects on health, especially during vulnerable periods such as fetal development and childhood.
Also keep in mind that maintaining your family’s health is not the only reason to choose organic food. Pesticide and herbicide use contaminates groundwater, ruins soil structures and promotes erosion, and may be a contributor to “colony collapse disorder,” the sudden and mysterious die-off of pollinating honeybees that threatens the American food supply. Buying or growing organic food is good for the health of the planet.
FBI Unlocks Terrorist’s iPhone
Staff Reports
SAN BERNARDINO– The government has asked a United States Magistrate Judge in Riverside, California to vacate the order that would have compelled Apple to assist the FBI in unlocking the iPhone 5C that was used in the San Bernardino terrorist attack last year. With the recent assistance of a third party, the Department of Justice is now able to unlock that phone without compromising any information on the device.
Government officials had sought an order compelling Apple to help unlock the phone of terrorist Syed Farook, who along with his wife, Tashfeen Malik, shot and killed 14 people and wounded 22 others at the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino on December 2, 2015. The DOJ wanted Apple to help the FBI unlock the phone by building a new version of iOS that would have bypassed iPhone passcode restrictions. Apple had steadfastly refused to comply with the court order, saying that it would set a dangerous precedent for future device security.
United States Attorney Eileen Decker released the following statement, “We sought an order compelling Apple to help unlock the phone to fulfill a solemn commitment to the victims of the San Bernardino shooting – that we will not rest until we have fully pursued every investigative lead related to the vicious attack. Although this step in the investigation is now complete, we will continue to explore every lead, and seek any appropriate legal process, to ensure our investigation collects all of the evidence related to this terrorist attack. The San Bernardino victims deserve nothing less.”
Did You Know?
Photo courtesy: Google Images
Can you drive blindfolded?
Staff Reports
Is distracted driving really a problem? YES! 80 percent of vehicle crashes involve some sort of driver inattention. Up to 3000 people nationwide are killed in crashes where driver distractions are involved, and thousands more are injured.
Distraction occurs any time you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off your primary task: driving safely. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing.
According to the CHP, sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field, blindfolded. Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves manual, visual, and cognitive distraction simultaneously.
Some people still don’t know how dangerous distracted driving is. Others know about the risks of texting and talking while driving, but still choose to do so anyway. They make the mistake of thinking the statistics don’t apply to them, that they can defy the odds. Still others simply lead busy, stressful lives and use cell phones and smartphones to stay connected with their families, friends, and workplaces. They forget or choose not to shut these devices off when they get behind the wheel.
In 2008, California motorists were prohibited from talking on hand-held cellular phones while driving. A ban on texting while driving followed in 2009. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, all text-based communication, including e-mail and instant messaging, reading, writing or sending a text message are prohibited. Both offenses carry $20 fines for first offenses and subsequent infractions are $50. Be aware that additional fees and additional penalties can end up tripling the total fee amount. The convictions will appear on your driving record. The law pertains to all drivers, regardless of age or state of residence.
There are special rules for young drivers, under the age of 18. These new drivers are not allowed to use a wireless telephone, pager, laptop or any other electronic mobile device to speak or text while driving; this applies even if they intend on using a hands-free headset. The only exception to this new rule is in emergency situations to call police, fire or medical authorities.
The California Highway Patrol wants to remind you don’t become a statistic. Distracted driving is 100% preventable.
Celebrating 27 Years of Diamond Bar Cityhood
Courtesy of the City of Diamond Bar
DIAMOND BAR– On Saturday, April 16, the City of Diamond Bar will be holding its annual Birthday Party at Pantera Park, in recognition of Diamond Bar’s 27th anniversary of incorporation.
The festivities will take place from 11:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., with carnival attractions operating until 6:00 p.m. Wristbands for unlimited carnival rides and punch cards for activities and games will be sold at the event – $10 for each wristband and $1 for each card (four activities per card). A variety of beverages, snacks and food plates will be sold by local area nonprofits. There will also be numerous information booths offering giveaways and information related to emergency preparedness, crime prevention, recycling, recreation, pet adoptions, and more. Additionally, at approximately 3:15 p.m., following the presentation of certificates to the honorees of this year’s Outstanding Volunteer awards, free slices of birthday cake will be distributed near the main stage.
A few things to keep in mind: Leave your pets at home – only registered service animals will be allowed. Bring cash – all transactions and purchases made onsite will require cash as payment. Free and frequent shuttle service to and from Pantera Park will be available from surrounding neighborhood streets, starting at 10:30 a.m. and continuing until the end of the event. Pantera Park is located at 738 Pantera Drive.
For more information, call 909-839-7000 or visit http://www.diamondbarca.gov/bday.
Chino Hills Huskies Win State Championship
Photo courtesy of Facebook
Chino Hills Huskies win State Championship
By Carol Heyen
CHINO HILLS– The Chino Hills Huskies capped their perfect 35-0 season with the State Championship on March 26.
The Huskies went up against Concord’s De La Salle, who had a 31-2 season going into the game. The Spartans were up by as much as 10 points in the first quarter, and led by 2 at halftime, a rarity for a team playing the Huskies. Chino Hills came back with a vengeance after halftime, took back the lead and easily pulled out a 70-50 victory.
The undefeated Huskies, led by Coach Steve Baik, have scored over 100 points in 18 games this season, trying the state record. They have cemented their place as one of the greatest high school basketball teams ever seen in the state of California, with the three UCLA-bound Ball brothers, Lonzo, LiAngelo and LaMelo at the center of the team.
Lonzo, the lone senior and a McDonald’s All-American, has won numerous awards, including being named the All-USA Player of the Year, the Gatorade Player of the Year, the Naismith Boy’s High School Player of the Year, and the Morgan Wooten Player of the Year. He averaged 23.6 points, 11.5 rebounds and 11.4 assists per game, and is listed as the #1 high school point guard in the country.
Junior LiAngelo Ball averages more than 27 points per game, and baby brother LaMelo adds his impressive ball handling skills and more than 16 points on average. Rounding out the starting five is junior Elizjah Scott, who became known for his rebounding and spectacular dunk shots, and freshman Onyeka Okongwu, who’s shot-blocking skills are awe-inspiring.
Congratulations Huskies!
Honey Oil Lab Found in Diamond Bar Home
Photo courtesy: LASD
Cannabis lab raided in Diamond Bar
Staff Reports
DIAMOND BAR – A hash oil extraction lab was found in a Diamond Bar home Wednesday, March 23. Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) narcotics investigators assigned to the Walnut/Diamond Bar Station team served a search warrant at approximately 1:30 p.m. at a residence located in the 200 block of South Rock River Road.
LASD narcotics detectives discovered an active honey oil marijuana extraction lab, where approximately one pound total of concentrated cannabis and unfinished cannabis product were seized. Detectives arrested five suspects, two females and three males, all between the ages of 18 and 23. Four of the suspects were residents of the location.
Honey oil, or hash oil, is THC that has been extracted from marijuana by the use of different solvents and heat. People who try to create honey oil can injure themselves or cause an explosion in the process.
The street value for the concentrated cannabis was estimated at approximately $15,000 and $70,000 for the unfinished cannabis product. Additionally, two vials containing approximately two ounces of liquid LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide) were also seized. The street value for the liquid LSD was estimated at about $15,000. Approximately $6,000 in U.S. currency was also seized.
Detectives from the Los Angeles Interagency Metropolitan Police Apprehension Crime Task Force (LA IMPACT) Clandestine Laboratory Team responded and are assisting LASD narcotics investigators in processing the scene and collecting evidence.
Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Walnut/Diamond Bar Station, Detective Burnside at (909) 595-2264.
If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.
Volunteers Honored by Local Sheriff’s Booster Club
Staff Reports
Diamond Bar – Local residents to be recognized for their volunteerism and hard work for the Walnut/Diamond Bar sheriff and emergency services at the 26th annual Volunteer Recognition Dinner on Saturday, April 21.
Hosted by the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club, the event will honor the sheriff department’s 150 volunteers who give freely of their time to improve the service and security to the cities of Walnut and Diamond Bar, and the unincorporated communities of Rowland Heights, Covina Hills and West Covina.
“Thousands of hours are donated annually by our department’s volunteers, explorers, reserves and disaster communication specialists,” Captain Jeff Scroggin said. “From vacation checks and traffic control to color guard and keeping disaster communication equipment ready in case of emergency, these are a few of the many services they provide the community. This recognition dinner is just a small token of our appreciation.”
Funds raised through the Annual Scholarship Dinner provide uniforms and equipment to the volunteers.
Reception begins at 6 p.m. and dinner will be served at 7 p.m. Dinner is free for all Volunteers, Reserve Deputies, Explorers, and Disaster Communications Services workers. Dinner tickets are available for $30 per person. Dinner includes choice of chicken picatta or tri tip beef with peppercorn sauce, garden salad, oven-roasted potatoes, dessert, coffee/tea and cash bar.
The event will be held at Diamond Bar Golf Course, 22751 Golden Springs Drive.
For information and reservations, contact Walnut/Diamond Bar Booster Club members, Sgt. Mark Saldecke at (909) 595-2264, mcsaldec@lasd.org or Gil Rivera at (909) 967-4525, GRiveraEmail@gmail.com.
Straight Talk with Danice
Danice Akiyoshi
“My daughter is a mess”
By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.
Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:
My adult daughter has recently made a mistake that causes me shame. She needs my help, but I am so hurt that I don’t know if I can be there for her. My husband has turned his back on her. He is tired of her chaotic lifestyle. I feel so alone. My daughter is too embarrassed to ask her siblings for help, because this is not the first time she’s been in trouble and needed us to bail her out. I wish she had decent friends and didn’t always depend on me. When is a mother’s job done?
-Francis
Hi, Francis:
Mother’s have many ways in which they interact with their children to enhance their lives. If you are a mother who constantly bails out wayward adult children, then you are an enabler. That’s a big problem, in my opinion. I feel for you if your spouse deserts you when the going gets tough. This probably contributes to your enabling ways, but you still need to correct this. As for your shame, if you need time to deal with your feelings of shame over the poor behavior of your daughter, then take it. You are not obligated to push your feelings aside just because your daughter finds herself in hot water once again. Maybe it’s time for you to allow your daughter to deal with the consequences of her poor behavior. I know it’s hard, but it may be a better option since she’s a repeat offender. Perhaps you could improve your marriage if you discontinue being in charge of keeping your daughter’s life together. You would be wise to work on the issue of “shame,” as well. Let me know if you need help.
Sincerely,
Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.
Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.
Six Candidates Seek to Sway Walnut Voters
By Natalie Kim
WALNUT – On Tuesday, March 15, approximately 40 people showed up at a Candidate Forum before the April 12 election in the city of Walnut.
The event was hosted by the League of Women Voters of the East San Gabriel Valley. The candidates who participated included Andrew Rodriguez, Dino Pollalis, Bella Cristobal, Betty Tang, Nancy Tragarz (incumbent), and Eric Ching (incumbent).
The six council hopefuls are vying for the three available council seats that are currently filled by Tony Cartagena (who after 16 years of service is not running), Nancy Tragarz, and Eric Ching. The event began at 7 p.m. and was moderated by League of Women Voters President Rosie Fabian.
The candidates had one minute for an opening statement, and one more minute to answer questions from the audience. The candidates answered questions covering topics such as term limits for Council members, public safety action items, and plans for combating traffic congestion.
Following the audience questions, the candidates concluded with a two-minute closing statement, and then were able to mingle and speak to audience members individually.
The election will take place on Tuesday, April 12. Residents over 18 who have registered to vote are eligible to vote, and election information will be available in English, Chinese, Hindi, Spanish, and Tagalog.
Luxury for Less!
Kitchen & Flooring Center, Inc. is located at 20875 Golden Springs Drive in Diamond Bar. They can be reached at (909) 594-5020, or visit http://www.kitchennflooring.com.
By K.P. Sander
Kitchen & Flooring Center, Inc. does it all. In fact, their motto is, “We Turn Houses into Homes.”
More than just a house, your home is a very special place. With that in mind, the Kitchen & Flooring Center is committed to providing you with the materials and installation you need to make your home the best it can be. They work with you to come up with a plan that fits your budget and your vision.
From full kitchen and bathroom remodeling to any type of flooring, Kitchen & Flooring Center does it all. And it’s not just limited to full remodeling; they also install all types of countertops, and provide plumbing, electrical, and lighting services, as well as windows, doors and painting. Right now you can get a free in-home consultation to help you discover the home of your dreams.
Kitchen & Flooring Center began when a young tile setter named, Sami, starting setting tile and flooring back in 1991. After working for other companies for several years, Sami decided it was time to set out on his own. In 1995, he started his own construction company.
Today, that company has evolved into a highly specialized company that focuses on kitchen and bathroom remodeling, and the customers’ needs. By offering quality products and services, Kitchen & Flooring Center is able to provide a finished product that not only meets, but exceeds, their customers’ visions.
Kitchen & Flooring Center has kitchen remodels starting at just $4,995, and they are currently offering a free sink and faucet with any complete kitchen or bath remodel.
Springtime is a perfect time to turn your home from ordinary to extraordinary. Call Kitchen & Flooring Center today, and turn your house into a home that you can enjoy for years to come. Their goal is to provide you the absolute BEST service in the industry. They guarantee it!
Visit the showroom at Kitchen & Flooring Center, located at 20875 Golden Springs Drive, in the city of Diamond Bar. They can be reached at (909) 594-5020, or visit http://www.kitchennflooring.com.
Canyon Hills Junior High Robotics Club Seeking World Championship
Photo courtesy CVUSD
State Champion Canyon Hills Robotics Club
Courtesy of Chino Valley Unified School District
CHINO HILLS– Canyon Hills Junior High School’s Robotics Team is planning to compete in the VEX World Championships in Louisville, Kentucky, April 20-23, 2016.
The competition requires students to design, build and compete with VEX EDR robots.
The first-year team has been named 2016 State Champions in VEX robot competition. They have also been named Tournament and Excellence Champions, Programming Champions, Skills Champions, received sportsmanship awards, and an innovation award.
Their advisor, Canyon Hills Junior High science teacher Isaac “Jami” Cabase, started an afterschool robotics club in fall 2014 at the school in Chino Hills.
Your Presence Is Valued In Our World
Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist
By Nancy Stoops, M.A.M.F.T.
I bet you think you don’t matter or make a difference. I’m here to say you’re wrong. Every interaction we have with each other matters. Every time we smile or share a greeting we make a difference. Those very interactions can literally change the way another person feels about their day. We still have the power to make the world a better place and to make somebody feel good. I’m always given hope during those brief but powerful interactions with others. The exchange of a smile can literally fill me with warmth and a wonderful glow inside. Just for that brief second there is a very nice exchange of good energy between two humans.
Take a minute or two out of your day to say hi, smile, hold a door open, help somebody cross a street or perform any act of human kindness. These acts really go a long way and can help you understand that you matter. I value these acts and the people that have the social graces to perform them. Please understand how much power you have each day to help make this world a better place. I hear heartwarming stories about people doing good deeds and I think about how much I value these people and their presence in our world.
Every time somebody thanks me for my work, their kind words seem to wrap around me and hug me and fill me up with such appreciation for my life and my work. I so value the presence of the people in my practice and in my groups. My group members are so supportive of each other and make a huge difference in each other’s lives. I walk through my neighborhood and my dog Midnight and I have many very brief but meaningful interactions, which helps remind me how valuable humans can be if they take the time to connect with others!
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 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.
Walnut High And Mt. SAC Threatened With Bomb
Photo by: Louie Ortega
Mt. SAC students evacuate the campus after a bomb threat.
By Lyn Taylor
WALNUT– A threatening note claiming that a bomb was going to be set off at two Walnut campuses forced the lock down and evacuation of Walnut High School and Mt. SAC college on Thursday, March 24.
A note was found by students in the boys’ bathroom at Walnut High around 10:30 a.m., according to Walnut Valley Unified School District Assistant Superintendent Matthew Witmer. Written in red ink, the note stated that bombs would be blown up at the school and at Mt. SAC at 2:45 p.m. The writer ended the note with, “God be with you all.”
The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department was contacted and Walnut High was put on lock-down. Mt. SAC’s officials decided to evacuate the campus because of its close proximity to Walnut High.
An emergency alert text message was sent to Mt. SAC students around 11:30 a.m., according to campus spokeswoman Jill Dolan. The text read, “Report of a threat to campus at 2:45 p.m. Calmly leave the campus. Classes and services are closed until at least 4:30 p.m. THIS IS NOT A DRILL.”
Deputies and K-9 officers searched both schools with bomb-sniffing dogs before clearing the campuses, according to L.A. Sheriff Department’s Lt. John Saleeby. Classes resumed at Mt. SAC at 4:30 p.m.
Mt. SAC is the largest community college in the nation with more than 12,000 full-time students. Although police were directing traffic, roads were crowded and traffic was snarled as thousands tried to leave campus. Many students complained on social media that it took over an hour to evacuate due to the traffic conditions. Foothill Transit ordered extra busses to be dispatched to Mt. SAC to help with the evacuation.
History 101
Photo courtesy: Google
Pope John Paul II
Pope John Paul II Dies
Courtesy of History.com
On April 2, 2005, John Paul II, history’s most well-traveled pope and the first non-Italian to hold the position since the 16th century, died at his home in the Vatican. Six days later, two million people packed Vatican City for his funeral, said to be the biggest funeral in history.
John Paul II was born Karol Jozef Wojtyla in Wadowice, Poland, 35 miles southwest of Krakow, in 1920. After high school, the future pope enrolled at Krakow’s Jagiellonian University, where he studied philosophy and literature and performed in a theater group. During World War II, Nazis occupied Krakow and closed the university, forcing Wojtyla to seek work in a quarry and, later, a chemical factory. By 1941, his mother, father, and only brother had all died, leaving him the sole surviving member of his family.
Although Wojtyla had been involved in the church his whole life, it was not until 1942 that he began seminary training. When the war ended, he returned to school at Jagiellonian to study theology, becoming an ordained priest in 1946. He went on to complete two doctorates and became a professor of moral theology and social ethics. On July 4, 1958, at the age of 38, he was appointed auxiliary bishop of Krakow by Pope Pius XII. He later became the city’s archbishop, where he spoke out for religious freedom while the church began the Second Vatican Council, which would revolutionize Catholicism. He was made a cardinal in 1967, taking on the challenges of living and working as a Catholic priest in communist Eastern Europe. Once asked if he feared retribution from communist leaders, he replied, “I m not afraid of them. They are afraid of me.”
Wojtyla was quietly and slowly building a reputation as a powerful preacher and a man of both great intellect and charisma. When Pope John Paul I died in 1978 after only a 34-day reign, few suspected Wojtyla would be chosen to replace him. After seven rounds of balloting, the Sacred College of Cardinals chose the 58-year-old, and he became the first-ever Slavic pope and the youngest to be chosen in 132 years.
A conservative pontiff, John Paul II’s papacy was marked by his firm and unwavering opposition to communism and war, as well as abortion, contraception, capital punishment, and homosexual sex. He later came out against euthanasia, human cloning, and stem cell research. He traveled widely as pope, using the eight languages he spoke (Polish, Italian, French, German, English, Spanish, Portuguese, and Latin) and his well-known personal charm, to connect with the Catholic faithful, as well as many outside the fold.
On May 13, 1981, Pope John Paul II was shot in St. Peter s Square by a Turkish political extremist, Mehmet Ali Agca. After his release from the hospital, the pope famously visited his would-be assassin in prison, where he had begun serving a life sentence, and personally forgave him for his actions. The next year, another unsuccessful attempt was made on the pope’s life, this time by a fanatical priest who opposed the reforms of Vatican II.
Although it was not confirmed by the Vatican until 2003, many believe Pope John Paul II began suffering from Parkinson s disease in the early 1990’s. He began to develop slurred speech and had difficulty walking, though he continued to keep up a physically demanding travel schedule. In his final years, he was forced to delegate many of his official duties, but still found the strength to speak to the faithful from a window at the Vatican. In February 2005, the pope was hospitalized with complications from the flu. He died two months later.
Pope John Paul II is remembered for his successful efforts to end communism, as well as for building bridges with peoples of other faiths, and issuing the Catholic Church’s first apology for its actions during World War II. He was succeeded by Joseph Cardinal Ratzinger, who became Pope Benedict XVI. Benedict XVI began the process to beatify John Paul II in May 2005.
Taking The Bus
Pastor Mark Hopper
By Pastor Mark Hopper
I was traveling out of town recently, and I decided to take the bus and metro train back to the airport. Several people had offered to help me get to the airport, but I thought I could make it on my own.
I went online and checked the bus and metro routes in my area. The bus ran every 30 minutes and would connect me to the metro train that went to the airport. I walked with my small red suitcase to the bus stop and got there in plenty of time. Another bus rider assured me that this was the right stop for my bus and that it came every 30 minutes.
When the bus did not come on schedule, my fellow rider was concerned. This never happened. The bus was very reliable. I called the “800” number posted at the bus stop to see what was wrong and was reassured by an impersonal computer voice that my bus would be on time.
Remember, I had a plane to catch and the clock was ticking. I called the bus line’s “800” number again and finally talked with a real person. They informed me that there had been mechanical trouble and the next bus would arrive in half an hour.
My previous relaxed composure was gradually changing to anxiety. Why did I take the bus? Why didn’t I accept the offers from others to drive me to the airport? Now I was too embarrassed to call someone for a ride. I had already declined their offers. Now, the clock was ticking. This seemed like a good time to pray and ask for God’s help!
Did I mention that while I was walking to the bus stop, earlier in the morning, that an airport shuttle van had actually pulled into the neighborhood? What are the odds that a van taking people to the airport was driving through my neighborhood while I was walking to the bus stop to get to the airport? Was this God sending me help because He knew I was going to need it and yet I refused to recognize it?
I actually walked over to the shuttle van to ask if there was room in his van for me and how much it would cost. Yes, there was room for me, but when I heard the price I knew I could save a lot of money taking the bus and then the metro train. Little did I know that the price (and peace of mind) of the shuttle van would be a lot less than the price and stress of possibly having to buy a new plane ticket!
While I was waiting for over an hour, the same blue airport shuttle van, with the same driver that I talked to earlier, actually drove right by my bus stop. I am sure that the shuttle driver smiled as he recognized the stingy guy with the red suitcase. If I had seen him coming, I would have probably waved for him to stop and rescue me.
My bus did finally arrive. It was over an hour late. When I tried to purchase a bus pass that would include the metro to the airport, the driver told me that the machine was broken. Not the best day to choose to ride the bus.
I did finally make it to airport and I did catch my plane, but it was close.
One thing that I learned is that there are nice people on the bus. Every person said “thank you” to the driver as they got off of the bus. The people on the bus were grateful for the ride. People in their cars are often grumpy, not grateful. I also learned to be thankful for my own car and how I so often take for granted the convenience of car ownership.
I was reminded that maybe I need to be more willing to let others help me. Why did I say “no” when people offered to take me to the airport? Maybe I need to learn to say “yes” and “thanks” when help is available.
And, maybe I need to learn how to use Uber!
OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 4.02.16
The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: 2016-Apr2-Weekly-WEB
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