Category Archives: The Weekly News

Straight Talk With Danice

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

A Letter From C.J.

Q:  I am a senior citizen.  I am wondering how to overcome a constant negative focus on my health issues.  These issues are both real and imaginary.  My poor health consumes my thoughts, and I feel depressed.  I don’t want to spend the rest of my life feeling this way.  Please help.

A:  It’s important to understand that where you place your focus in life is where you will have the most growth.  If you focus on negative matters, your negative concerns will seem to expand.   My guess is that you don’t have enough balance in your life.  Constantly looking at a problem is not as helpful as concentrating on a solution.  Try to balance your worry with some activities that bring you joy.  Just because you are a senior citizen, does not mean you have to start preparing for a life filled with illness.  Better yet, it’s time to plan for as much enjoyment as possible.  Shift your thoughts to people and situations that bring laughter into your life.  Release the ones that bring you upset and grief.  This is very important. If you are sitting around watching television as your main activity, you are taking on a lot of negativity from the news and being exposed to lots of commercials relating to health disorders.  Free yourself from all the negative feedback and visit some healthy and happy friends and family instead.  If visiting is too hard, then invite them to visit you, but don’t weigh the conversation down with your health concerns.  Altering your point of view will alter your life.  I hope you realize the choice is yours to make.

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 atstraighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

Chino Hills Burglary Arrest

Photo Courtesy: Flickr

Photo Courtesy: Flickr

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Fri., Aug. 21, Deputies from the Chino Hills Police Department responded to the Mission Hills Apartments located at 3100 Chino Hills Parkway in reference to a vehicle burglary.

According to the Chino Hills Police Department, investigation found that a suspect had broken the passenger window of a vehicle and took a laptop computer and an Apple iPad.  The victim was able to activate the Find My iPad app, which led Deputies to the 13300 block of Saddle Lane in the city of Chino.

At that residence, the Chino Hills Detective Bureau had also responded to a report of a stolen vehicle, which was located with the suspect – Gerardo Cebreros-Vargas, 23, of Chino.  The vehicle was found to have stolen property – including the stolen iPad – from at least six victims from Chino and Chino Hills.

Through investigation, Deputies determined that an additional stolen vehicle was involved in these crimes.  The second vehicle was located at 4200 Village Drive in Chino Hills.

Cebreros-Vargas was booked into the West Valley Detention Center without further incident, and was charged with Vehicle Burglary, Grand Theft, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, and Possession of Stolen Property.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Chino Hills Police Station at (909) 364-2000, or WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME.

Top Quality Auto Body Repair and Towing

03 10 x 3 75 05-16-08 Ad for publication.pubBy J.D. Alberts

Walnut – For over 25 years, California Coach Auto Collision has served its community with top notch repair and assistance services, reaching from “Diamond Bar to Chino and beyond.”

Under original ownership, California Coach takes great pride in their quality service reputation and understands the importance of automotive safety. Their highly trained, certified mechanical technicians take great care of every vehicle they service.  And with a 16,000 square foot “state of the art” collision repair shop and one acre adjacent storage space, California Coach is well-equipped to take care of all of your auto collision needs, including:

  • Estimating
  • Complete Auto Repair, Auto Body and Paint
  • Frame, Unibody and Metal Repair/Replacement
  • General Repair
  • Refinishing
  • 24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance
  • Towing (Light, Medium and Heavy Duty, and Recovery)
  • AAA Battery Service Program
  • Battery Jumps
  • Tire Changes, and much more!

California Coach has earned a reputation for courteous service, high standards, and extremely high customer satisfaction ratings since they opened in 1998.  Most new customers are a result of referrals by happy customers, and this is a standing they don’t take for granted.  They understand the stress associated with an accident or tow, and their goal is to take care of your car and reduce your frustration.  They will work hard to restore your car to its original condition and keep you updated throughout the process; and all insurance claims are welcome.

In partnership with Mercury Insurance Group and Diamond Honda of Puente Hills (as an approved repair facility), California Coach is also ASE certified, and a AAA Roadside Assistance Provider and Patrol.  They are also members of the California Auto Body Association, the California Tow Truck association, and the Walnut Sheriff’s Booster Club.

California Coach Auto Collision is located at 22064 Valley Blvd. in Walnut. Body Shop hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 noon. You can reach them at (909) 595-9448, or (909) 595-6970 for their 24-hour towing service. For more information visit their website at http://www.calcoachautobodytowing.com, or send them an email at info@CalCoachAutoBodyTowing.com.

Walnut Valley Makes Newsweek’s Top HS List

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Diamond Bar High School has been named No. 77 in Newsweek's “America’s Top High Schools 2015” list.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Diamond Bar High School has been named No. 77 in Newsweek’s “America’s Top High Schools 2015” list.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Two Walnut Valley schools made the list of “America’s Top High Schools 2015,” released by Newsweek on Aug. 19.

The newsmagazine ranked Diamond Bar and Walnut high schools in its list of the top 500 public high schools nationwide.  The rankings are intended to identify high schools that have the highest performance on state tests and best prepare students for college, according to Newsweek.

Diamond Bar High School (DBHS) scored in the top 100, ranking the 77th best high school in the nation and 8th in California.

Walnut High School (WHS) also ranked an impressive 148th in America and 20th in California.

In addition, both schools received gold stars in an equity analysis that indicates economically disadvantaged students performed at or above average on state assessments.

“We are always proud of our high schools and the work that is done to provide our students with exceptional learning opportunities,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor. “Our success is a team effort that includes exceptional teachers and staff, strong commitments from our students, and outstanding parent support.”

The Newsweek list identifies the top 500 schools by measuring several factors, including graduation rate, college enrollment rate, SAT and ACT scores, Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate exams, ratio of counselors to students, and state test scores.

DBHS received a college readiness score of 85.4 on Newsweek’s ranking criteria. The school has a graduation rate of 100% and a college enrollment rate of 97.2%. The average SAT exam score at the school is 1742 and the average AP exam score is 3.7.

WHS has a college readiness score of 82.6, a graduation rate of 100%, and a college enrollment rate of 94.0%. The average SAT exam score at the school is 1696.  Additionally, the average AP exam score is 3.8.

“Our college readiness index reflects our philosophy of providing access to rigorous academic courses to more and more students, whether that’s in the form of AP and IB courses or access to career tech ed courses, for which students receive college credit while still in high school,” states DBHS Principal, Catherine Real.

See the full report at: http://www.newsweek.com/high-schools/americas-top-high-schools-2015.

 

The Winner Of Your Personal Revolution

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T.

Do you ever feel like you just need to make a huge change?  Are you afraid, and so you stay stuck because this is what you have always done?

Maybe it’s time to have a personal revolution and really shake things up.  I think it starts by making a list of what you need to keep about you, and what you really need to finally let go of.  It’s time to revolt and personally attack those demons and the lies that hold you back from being a great and powerful you.

I know it sounds crazy to stage a revolution against yourself or against the pieces you are sick and tired of.  I don’t know any other way to move forward if you are really stuck.  Fight hard and fight smart and do your interpersonal work.

What better day than today to claim the rights to you.  Stop letting others hold you hostage to being a lesser version of you.  Today is the day you take control of yourself and of your mind.  If somebody has made your doubt yourself, today is the day to fix that.  Today is the day you decide that you are proud of yourself and that you will fight to become the best you can be.   I know you can win that internal battle, and you can revolt against all the lies.

You owe yourself this revolution and I know you can win.  The past is over, the future is uncertain, but the present is a gift that can help us unwrap our true inner being.  This is an inner being we can be proud of, and we can feel confident like never before.  This newly found confidence can help us see that anything is possible, and there are no limits for us!

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, including 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, or via email at nancyjstoops@verizon.net.  Nancy’s books, “Midnight the Therapy Dog,” and “Live, Heal and Grow,” are available at Amazon.com.

Rowland Heights: Woman Charged With Fatal Stabbing

Photo Courtesy: DMV Lisette Kimberly Moreno

Photo Courtesy: DMV
Lisette Kimberly Moreno

Staff Reports

Rowland Heights – On Tues., Aug. 18, a 19-year old woman was charged with killing her brother’s girlfriend with a pair of scissors.
According to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office, Lisette Kimberly Moreno has been charged with one count of murder. The felony complaint includes a special allegation that the defendant personally used a deadly and dangerous weapon – scissors – during the commission of the crime.
Moreno was scheduled to be arraigned on Aug. 18, but the court appearance has been continued to Sept. 17 in the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Pomona Branch.
Prosecutors said on Aug. 16, Moreno reportedly got into an argument with her brother’s girlfriend at a Rowland Heights home. Following the verbal exchange, Moreno allegedly stabbed the victim, Annette Martinez, before fleeing the area.
Authorities were called and Martinez was taken to the hospital, where she ultimately succumbed to her injuries.
After the attack, law enforcement located Moreno and arrested her in connection with the fatal stabbing.
If convicted as charged, Moreno faces a possible maximum sentence of 26 years to life in state prison.

Tools Of The Trade

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

I have a great respect for people in the construction trades.  Plumbers, carpenters, electricians and many others help build our homes, schools, churches and industries.

One of the things that they have in common is the “tools of their trade.”  Each craftsman has to have specific tools in order to do their work.  That is why many of them drive pickup trucks filled with saws, hammers, wire cutters and pipe wrenches.

Pastors and teachers have their own “tools of the trade.”  One of their tools is books.  Teachers use books to help their students read and learn, and for preparing their lessons.  Students use books to learn on their own.

Pastors use books to study and prepare sermons, and for Bible lessons.  We use them to broaden our understanding of theology and gain insight into passages in the Bible.

Today, many pastors and teachers are using books and other resources that are available on the Internet.   The number of these resources is almost unlimited.

I have gathered my “tools of the trade” over the past 45 years.  I have books that I purchased decades ago that are still very helpful in my studies.  Some of the books in my library were given to me as gifts from friends, family and church members.

In addition, I have dozens of notebooks filled with over 40 years of sermons, study notes and illustrations.  I am grateful that I have preserved years of material that I can refer to as I prepare new studies and sermons.

I have often told the people at our church that if there is ever a fire on our property, don’t worry about the music equipment or office computers – save my books!  These are priceless resources that cannot be replaced.

When the Apostle Paul was near the end of his earthly ministry, he wrote a letter to his young apprentice, Timothy.  In that letter he instructed Timothy, “When you come, bring the books and the parchments that I left with Carpus,” (2 Timothy 4:13).

These resources were some of the “tools of Paul’s trade.”  They were portions of the Bible and other resources that he used in his ministry.  Even in his older years, he had an insatiable desire to keep on learning.

What are the tools of your trade?  For many people today, it is their smart phone and computer.  For others, it may be some specialized piece of equipment or a motorized wheelchair.

Whatever your “tools” are, treat them with care and use them to help others.  You will be glad you did, and they will, too!

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

Delicious, Authentic Cuisine At Mandarin Taste

See their ad in this issue of the Weekly News for coupons and specials. For more information, call (909) 861-1819 or just stop by their location at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar.

See their ad in this issue of the Weekly News for coupons and specials. For more information, call (909) 861-1819 or just stop by their location at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar.

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – If you are searching for a wonderful dining experience with delicious, authentic food and great service, then look no further than Mandarin Taste.  A staple in the City of Diamond Bar for more than 27 years, Mandarin Taste provides a family-friendly atmosphere that keeps customers coming back again and again.

“We are like a family restaurant,” says manager, Chi Young, when describing how their customers feel when visiting.  “People are always smiling here,” he adds.

Mandarin Taste has thrived because they take pride in their recipes, and work hard to bring you authentic Chinese cuisine.  They specialize in Peking Duck, and the Ginger Lobster served at Sunday Brunch is a delicacy you’ll return for again and again.  Mandarin Taste is well known for their Wonton Soup, and customer favorites are the Crispy Shrimp, Walnut Shrimp, and the Fried Dumplings.

The Champagne Sunday Brunch is very popular, and features a variety of delectable dishes in an all-you-can-eat buffet presentation.  The champagne is all-you-can-drink, too!

The Mandarin Taste owners and staff want everyone who comes to their establishment to relax and enjoy themselves over the delicious food in their pleasant ambiance.  If you don’t have time to linger, you can call in a delicious order to go.

For more information, call Mandarin Taste at (909) 861-1819, or just stop by their location at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 08.29.15

2015-Aug29-Weekly-COVERThe Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: 2015-Aug29-Weekly-WEB

Five Tips For Your Job Interview

Little things can easily derail your big moment if you don’t prepare, says Career Coach

 

By Lisa Quast

After months of responding to job postings, you finally land an interview.  This could be a pivotal moment in your life and career, so it’s natural to feel nervous. But there’s no reason to let stress rule the day.

Life routinely throws us curves, and that’s just as likely to happen on your job-interview day as any other day.  Traffic could be bad. You might spill something on the blouse you planned to wear. Any number of things could go wrong that aren’t directly related to the interview, but can knock you off your game.

While it’s not possible to anticipate every scenario, a little preparation can help you keep the anxiety level manageable.

  • Know where you need to go. Don’t wait until right before an interview to make sure you have the correct address and phone number. Verify these online by checking the company website a few days ahead of time. You also should download driving directions or program the address into your Smartphone or GPS to find potential routes and estimated drive times. When in doubt, do a trial run. You can drive there the weekend before to get the lay of the land and see where to park.  Don’t rely on technology alone. Always have a hard copy with the address and driving directions, just in case GPS or the Smartphone fails you.
  • Obtain the correctly spelled name of the interviewer. And remember to bring a printout of the job posting. It always surprises me how many people show up for a job interview and can’t remember the name of the hiring manager or even the job title of the position they’re interviewing for. Don’t be one of those people.
  • Schedule enough time for the interview. Block your calendar so you won’t need to rush from one job interview to the next, or go straight to another appointment or back to work. The interview could take much longer than you think going in. For example, if things are going well, you might be asked to interview with others in the organization. Be sure to schedule ample time in case you need to stay longer. You don’t want to be stealing quick glances at your watch when you should be listening to what the hiring manager is saying.
  • Turn off your cell phone. When I say off, I mean off – don’t put it on vibrate. Almost everyone can hear a cell phone vibrating in a purse, briefcase or pocket. You will be aware that a call is coming in for you. The people interviewing you will be aware. And you will be aware that they are aware.
  • Take a bathroom break before the interview. Use the restroom before you leave your house and avoid too much coffee or other liquids shortly before your interview. If you need to use the bathroom when you arrive at the company, ask the receptionist to point you to them before he or she informs the hiring manager that you have arrived.

One additional thing you can do is give yourself a pep talk before the interview.  Mentally remind yourself of all the things you plan to do during the interview, the points you want to make about your experience and the questions you have about the company.

You may not be able to eliminate all the butterflies, but your preparation should help reduce the stress and let you concentrate on making the most of the opportunity.

 

Lisa Quast is a career coach, business consultant and author of the book, “Secrets of a Hiring Manager Turned Career Coach: A Foolproof Guide to Getting the Job You Want Every Time.” (www.careerwomaninc.com).

Pomona: Gang Members Convicted

Multiple counts of attempted murder send two men to prison

 

Staff Reports

Pomona – The Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office has announced two recent convictions of local gang members arrested by the Pomona Police Department.
A jury convicted Derek Joshua Sommer, 28, of 11 felony counts in his case: five counts of attempted murder, five counts of assault with a firearm, and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon.
According to the Pomona Police Department, Sommer’s co-defendant, Christian Miranda, 22, was recently found guilty in the same case of two counts, attempted murder and assault with a firearm.
Jurors also found true gun and gang allegations for both defendants.
Sommer is scheduled to be sentenced Sept. 8 in Department T of the Los Angeles County Superior Court, Pomona Branch. Sentencing for Miranda is set for Sept. 11 in the same department and courthouse.
Deputy District Attorney Martin Bean of the Hardcore Gang Division said that on Oct. 4, 2014, defendants Miranda and Sommer got into a fight with a group of men at a restaurant.  At some point, Sommer pulled out a gun and began shooting, injuring several men – including defendant Miranda. Following the incident, Sommer fled the scene, while Miranda and the victims were taken to the hospital for medical treatment.
On the day of the shooting, Miranda was taken into custody in connection with the attack, and Sommer was located and arrested the following week.

Both men face a possible maximum sentence of life in state prison.

Walnut Valley: Back To Class!

Walnut Valley begins 2015-16 School Year

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD School spirit showed during opening pep rallies held at Diamond Bar High on Aug. 17.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
School spirit showed during opening pep rallies held at Diamond Bar High on Aug. 17.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Over 14,600 students headed back to school in the Walnut Valley Unified School District on Mon., Aug. 17.

At Diamond Bar High, over 3,000 students cheered with classmates during two superhero-themed pep rallies held in the gymnasium.

“We’re welcoming everyone back today!” exclaimed Janna Van Horn, United Student Body (USB) advisor.

The extravaganza featured Drumline, Dance Company, Pep, and Song performances, and highlighted fall sports programs.

“I love the spirit here and how everyone is involved in the 4 A’s – Academics, Activities, Arts, and Athletics,” senior April Song commented.

Forty USB members organized the event during the summer.

“We put in a lot of hours to help our students have a better time on campus – especially the rallies,” added Song, the USB finance director.

At Westhoff Elementary, over 600 students and families waited for the first bell of the new school year. Many took photos to mark the first day near welcome banners and helium balloons.

For the opening class activity, kindergarten teacher, Roxanne Dennen, read the “Kissing Hand,” a sweet account of a young raccoon who was nervous on the first day of school.  The children’s book details a mother raccoon comforting her little one by kissing its paw.  After the story, Dennen asked parents to kiss their youngsters’ hands, before saying goodbye.

“You’re ready for kindergarten now!” she exclaimed.

“You’re going to learn so much this year,” Dennen said as they sat criss-cross-applesauce on lettered carpet squares.

At C.J. Morris Elementary, Carol Martindale’s 3rd Grade students loved the “First Day Jitters” story, because the teacher was also nervous about coming to school on the first day.

“It demonstrated that we all get excited and nervous about the first day of school and then we realize it is not so bad after all,” she said.

Collegewood Elementary 5th Grade teacher, Laura O’Donnell, also had memorable first day.  At the end of last year, a 4th Grader called to her and said, “Pick me for your class next year!” she recalled.  O’Donnell explained that she didn’t get to pick her students, but if she did, she certainly would.

“As luck would have it, he was on my class list,” O’Donnell shared. “When I walked down the line today to greet my students, he looked up at me, smiled, and whispered, ‘You picked me!’”

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Kindergartners heard the “Kissing Hand” during the opening activity of the 2015-2016 school year at Westhoff Elementary (shown with teacher Roxanne Dennen).

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Kindergartners heard the “Kissing Hand” during the opening activity of the 2015-2016 school year at Westhoff Elementary (shown with teacher Roxanne Dennen).

 

Orange County: Distracted Freeway Driver Convicted

Motorist killed as distracted driver crashes at 85 mph into car stopped in traffic

Photo Courtesy: OCDA Jorene Ypanto Nicolas

Photo Courtesy: OCDA
Jorene Ypanto Nicolas

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – On Thurs., Aug. 13, an inattentive driver was convicted of killing a motorist by crashing into the victim’s car at approximately 85 mph after failing to notice that traffic had come to a stop.

Jorene Ypanto Nicolas, 32, of San Diego, was found guilty by a jury of one felony count of vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence. On Apr. 16, 2014, a previous jury was unable to reach a unanimous verdict in this case finding 11 to one in favor of guilt, and the trial resulted in a mistrial.

According to the Orange County District Attorney’s Office, on Apr. 27, 2011, at approximately 11 a.m., Nicolas was speeding while traveling northbound on Interstate 405 near Edwards Street in a Toyota Prius. She became distracted and inattentive while driving and failed to notice that the traffic ahead had come to a complete stop.

Nicolas was driving at approximately 85 mph and failed to brake or slow when she slammed into the back of a Hyundai sedan, which was just starting to move after being at a full stop in traffic, driven by Deanna Mauer, 23. Mauer’s sedan was pushed into the car in front of her and then traveled and struck the center divider before coming to a stop facing southbound in the northbound lanes.

After crashing into the victim’s car, Nicolas lost control of her own vehicle and also crashed into the center divider. Nicolas was transported to the hospital and treated for minor lacerations.

The victim, who had been wearing her seatbelt, was transported to University of California, Irvine Medical Center. She was pronounced dead that day as a result of brain death.

Nicolas faces a maximum sentence of six years in state prison at her sentencing on Sept. 4, at the Central Justice Center in Santa Ana.

 

 

 

Walnut Council Recap

Photo Courtesy: Google

Photo Courtesy: Google

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – Mayor Bob Pacheco began the Aug. 12 Walnut City Council by recognizing employee, Alicia Jensen, Deputy Community Services Director. Through Jensen’s hard work and efforts, City planned events run smoothly and successfully, and all members of the Council praised her hard work.

After Jensen’s recognition, Michael Cacciotti, a board member from the South Coast Air Quality Management District, made a presentation on the levels of pollution in the Southland, most notably the negative effects of air pollution from diesel engines in vehicles such as trucks or ships, among other sources. Cacciotti concluded the presentation on ways to reduce air pollution, such as bicycling or commuting as opposed to driving, and using electric landscaping devices like electric lawn mowers and leaf blowers.

Following Public Comments, the Council approved several items on the Consent Calendar, including a resolution allowing Walnut $934,178.50 in certain claims and demands; an amendment between Walnut and Silver & Wright, LLP; final acceptance of a Parcel Map of Avenida Esplendor; a request to proceed with formal bids for business license software; a waiver of parking restrictions on La Puente Road; final acceptance for installation of speed bumps on Yale Avenue; final acceptance for the installation of a guardrail on Gartel Drive; and the appointment of Bella Cristobal to the Parks and Recreation Commission.

The Council then denied a license agreement between the City and Verizon Wireless, after residents expressed concern about the safety and aesthetic appeal of installing a cell tower in Snow Creek Park. The Council also denied a contract to MIG, Inc. to prepare a General Plan Update. Although the General Plan has not been updated since 1978, the Council is still seeking a lower bid for the contract.

The meeting adjourned with plans to meet again on Aug. 26 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Rowland Heights: Buckboard Days Scholarship Pageant

Photo Courtesy: BuckboardDaysParade.org

Photo Courtesy: BuckboardDaysParade.org

By Gina Ward

Rowland Heights – With an outpouring of community and business support, a new scholarship pageant has launched to help local high school students receive funds for college/career plans.

The Miss Buckboard Days Scholarship Pageant will be held on Sat., Sept. 12, 11 a.m., at the Rowland Heights Community Center (18150 E. Pathfinder Road, Rowland Heights).

The scholastic event focuses on the spirit of giving which mirrors this year’s Buckboard Parade theme of, “Good Neighbors, Good Friends.” A distinguished panel of community members will judge students on community-focused speech presentations. A total of $1,800 in scholarships will be given with a $1,000 Scholarship, a $500 Scholarship and a $300 Scholarship. The Queen and her Court will ride in a traditional horse-drawn buckboard in the 43rd Annual Buckboard Days Parade and Festival on Sat., Oct. 17.

“We are excited to showcase this pioneering group of student contestants who truly showcase the values of our community, the skills being taught in our schools, and reward our top contestants with scholarship funds to help them reach their goals,” said Teri Malkin, Pageant Chair.  “We want to thank our many supporters including the Nogales High School Fashion Design Class that designed formal attire for some of the students, and support from the Rowland Unified School District and Family Resource Center.”

Student contestants are all juniors and seniors residing within the Rowland Unified School District boundaries.

The event is sponsored by the Buckboard Days Parade Committee, Diamond Plaza and support from Los Angeles County. More information can be found at buckboarddaysparade.org.

Walnut: New Mustang in Town

Brandon Dade takes helm at Walnut High

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Brandon Dade has been named the new principal at Walnut High School.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Brandon Dade has been named the new principal at Walnut High School.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District is pleased to announce that Walnut High School has a new leader. The Board of Trustees unanimously approved Brandon Dade as Principal during the July 15 meeting.

“I am excited to join the Walnut High team and am looking forward to working with students, families, teachers and staff,” Dade said.

The 15-year education veteran began his new post at the 2,700-student campus in late July.  Dade plans to kick off the first day of school by greeting students as they come onto campus.

“I’m going to be out in the parking lot, waving, and trying my best to say hello,” he said.

Once school is in session, he’ll visit as many classrooms as possible.

“Not only to see the students, but also to say good morning to the teachers.  “I’ll also be out talking to kids throughout the day. I want to be out there and available to students,” he added.

Dade recently met the Mustang staff during an opening meeting.

“We just had fun!” he said, adding the 150-plus staffers got to know each other better during a cross-curricular activity.

“I also shared some funny moments from my life and a video of a police officer singing Taylor Swift’s hit song, “Shake It Off.  I want them to think of this video and laugh when they have those ‘really?’ moments during the school year,” he added.

The new principal agrees with the existing school vision developed for students.

“My vision is to make sure that when students leave here, they’re ready for any post-secondary options, because the world changes so much from year to year,” he said.

Dade said he wants students to be foundationally well rounded.

“I just want them to go out there and dream big!”

Most recently, Dade served as principal at Augustine Ramirez Intermediate School in the community of Eastvale in the Corona-Norco Unified School District. Prior to that, he was assistant principal at Eleanor Roosevelt High School, also in Eastvale.

Additionally, Dade served four years as assistant principal and three years as a high school counselor at Alhambra High School. He was a teacher at Nogales High School and an elementary teacher.

Dade was previously a Los Angeles County children’s social worker. He is also fluent in American Sign Language.

The 6’4” administrator also played professional basketball in Europe and China for two years. He continues to utilize strategies from his days on the court as an educator.

“Being able to trust that everyone has a skill or unique talent and that I can help them use those skills, makes the team better.” Dade said.

“I look at the whole staff – classified and certificated – as being on one team. And when we have success, everybody contributes to that success. You stay together as a ‘we’,” he added.

Years ago, Dade attended middle and high school in a local school district. He was surprised to learn that his 7th Grade flag football coach and freshman basketball coach, Dave Smith, is a Walnut High teacher.

“I had no clue!” Dade exclaimed.  “I told him, thank you, because you helped me get to where I am today.”

Dade’s positive outlook is evident through his warm smile.

“I think I’m blessed to be where I’m at and that’s why I tell people ‘you’ll see me smile every day, no matter what.’ Great people around me have helped and supported me,” he explained.

“It feels like all the experiences I’ve had brought me to this point to be able to give back to the community.”

Dade is married and has three children.

He succeeds Jeff Jordan who was named Administrative Director of Educational Services in June.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Diamond Bar – Mayor Steven Tye began the Aug. 18 City Council meeting with several special presentations.

First, county librarian, Margaret Donnellan Todd, was presented with a City tile upon her retirement, ending a 37-year career and following 22 years of commendable service to Diamond Bar. Although the Council was saddened at the thought of her leaving, they praised her for her hard work and dedication.

Next, a City tile was presented to Graybar Electric of Diamond Bar, a Fortune 500 company, as the Business of the Month for August 2015.

Finally, Carlos Gonzalez was recognized as an exemplary citizen for his actions in December 2014, when he assisted a fellow Diamond Bar resident in need of emergency medical attention. Although the resident passed away, Gonzalez’s actions allowed her to live out the last few months of her life comfortably, and it was in her last wishes for Gonzalez to be recognized by the City.

There was an update on the Grand Avenue Beautification Project, which began on May 20, and when completed will improve the intersections of Grand Avenue running through Diamond Bar Boulevard and Longview Drive. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen delays, the project will be delayed for an estimated six weeks, pushing the end date of the project from Aug. 12 to October 2015. Construction will continue Mondays through Fridays, from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Following the public comments, the Council then read the schedule of future events, which included a Planning Commission meeting on Aug. 25 at 7 p.m.; a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on Aug. 27 at 7 p.m.; a tentative City Council meeting on Sept. 1 at  6:30 p.m.; Labor Day Holiday on Sept. 7, during which City Hall offices will be closed; a Planning Commission meeting, on Sept 8 at 7 p.m.; a Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Sept. 10 at 7 p.m.; and another City Council meeting on Sept. 15 at 6:30 p.m.

The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including the Council minutes from Aug. 4; Planning Commission minutes from July 14; ratification of a check register dated July 30 through Aug 12, 2015 totaling $2.418,821.26; a resolution to join a national intergovernmental alliance to purchase janitorial supplies from Waxie Sanitary Supply; the next City Council meeting on Sept. 15; and an application for grant funds from the Recreational Trails Program Moving Ahead for Progress in the 21st Century Act Fund for the Ridge Route Trail connecting to the Grand View Trail. The Council also agreed to appropriate $110,165 from traffic mitigation funds from the special funds budget to the Public Works Operating Budget; to approve a contract amendment between David Evans and Associates, Inc. for the Grand Avenue Beautification Project; and authorize the City Manager to execute a Use Agreement with Los Angeles County Flood Control to build a pedestrian bridge.

After a public hearing on Diamond Bar’s state of compliance with the 2015 Los Angeles County Congestion Management Program, the Council adopted a resolution that stated Diamond Bar’s conformance to the program.

Finally, Council appointed Raymond Wolf as the next Planning Commissioner, to fill a vacancy filled by Peter Pirritano, who relocated from Diamond Bar to Chino Hills. After the Council reports and comments, the Council adjourned with plans to meet on Sept. 15, 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

Inland Empire: Teen Arrested For Pointing Laser At Sheriff’s Helicopter

Photo Courtesy: SBSD

Photo Courtesy: SBSD

Staff Reports

 

Hesperia – On Mon., Aug. 17, at approximately 10:42 p.m., a San Bernardino County Sheriff’s (SBSD) helicopter 40k1 was en route to Apple Valley to assist with a call when a high powered laser was pointed at them.
According to SBSD, Deputies in the helicopter were able to discern which home the laser came from and notified the Hesperia Station. Deputies responded and made contact with persons at the residence. Through investigation they discovered suspect Spencer Hamm, 18, had pointed the laser at the helicopter.
Hamm was arrested and booked at the High Desert Detention Center on charges of pointing a laser at an aircraft. Hamm’s actions could have resulted in impairment of the pilot’s vision and ability to safely fly the helicopter.

Please keep in mind that emergency vehicles and aircraft need to respond to their call safely so they can help others.

Walnut: RN Program At Mt. SAC

Bachelor’s Program in Nursing from Mount Saint Mary’s Now Offered

Photo Courtesy: Mt. SAC

Photo Courtesy: Mt. SAC

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – Recognizing the shortage of baccalaureate-prepared nurses, Mt. San Antonio College and Mount Saint Mary’s University, Los Angeles, will partner to launch a bachelor of science in nursing program on the Mt. SAC campus.
Classes begin Aug. 24 on Mt. SAC’s Walnut campus, with the goal of 30 students in the inaugural 2015-16 cohort. Mount Saint Mary’s will offer the Associate Degree in Nursing to Bachelor of Science in Nursing (RN to BSN) Completion Program, and admissions for the program will be handled through the Los Angeles-based university.
“There is a growing need both locally and nationally for this advanced training,” said Dr. Susie Chen, liaison for the program. “Most hospitals now want nurses with bachelor’s degrees.”
The demand for registered nurses is expected to outpace the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. From 2012 to 2022, nursing jobs should increase by 19 percent.
“At Mount Saint Mary’s, we have made a major commitment to move more ADN students to BSN levels,” said Diane Vines, dean of nursing at Mount Saint Mary’s. “That’s why we created the RN to BSN Program, and that’s why we are pleased to partner with Mt. SAC. We want to help nurses reach this new standard in California’s hospitals and healthcare facilities.”
Through the educational partnership, classes will be held on the Mt. SAC campus and online, and will be taught by faculty from both colleges. The 35-unit program will consist of three continuous semesters of full-time study with core courses ranging from pediatric nursing to palliative care. Assigned hands-on clinical experience will be arranged in Mt. SAC’s local area.
Surveys have shown that more than 75 percent of Mt. SAC nursing students want to pursue a bachelor’s degree in nursing.
“We are honored to partner with Mount Saint Mary’s in this initiative. By working together, we have created a seamless process for students to first earn their associate’s degree through our nationally ranked program, and then take the next step and earn a bachelor’s degree from Mount Saint Mary’s excellent program. Our students will be well prepared to enter a surging job market and to lead the next generation of nursing professionals,” said Mt. SAC President and CEO, Dr. William Scroggins.
“This is a wonderful example of collegial collaboration in action,” said Mount Saint Mary’s President Ann McElaney-Johnson. “We have long been proud of the respect our nursing alums have earned in their field, and we are excited to join with Mt. SAC to help even more nursing professionals attain rising professional standards across California.”
Last year, Mt. SAC’s nursing program was ranked 13th among all nursing programs in the western United States’ community colleges in a survey by NurseJournal.org. Mt. SAC’s nursing program serves 240 students, and its students achieved a 91 percent pass rate on the 2014 state board nursing exam.
In 2014, Money magazine ranked Mount Saint Mary’s as its number one value-added college in the magazine’s evaluation of “Colleges That Add the Most Value.” Bright Hub, a web publication that focuses on technology, science and education, ranked the Mount at No. 9 in its U.S. ranking of “10 Best Colleges for a Degree in Nursing.” Mount Saint Mary’s BSN program is the oldest in California, dating back to 1952.

For more information, visit mtsac.edu and msmu.edu.

Straight Talk With Danice

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

 

A Letter From Danielle:

Question:  My daughter just graduated from high school last June and she has already decided to move out with two girlfriends.  I feel she is not ready to be on her own, but when I try to give her advice she gets nasty.  How can I make sure she is okay without making her look childish in front of her friends?  I am really worried, because she is still so immature.  By the way, none of these girls are in college, but they all have jobs. They believe they can make this arrangement work out.  Please help!

 

Answer:  This is one of those difficult times in the parenting cycle.  You sound like a very caring mom and your daughter will appreciate that some day.  Have faith that you did a good job in raising your daughter, and create space in your relationship for her to develop self reliance.   When I felt a deep need to visit and “check in” on my young adult kids, I made favorite food items, or offered to share my giant bundle of paper towels or toilet paper.  Youngsters are usually very open to receiving these gifts when they are first starting out on their own.  Be careful not to criticize their dwelling if it is messy, and resist the urge to fix all the difficulties that crop up.  When young adults make a decision to enter adult living, you should allow them to sort things out on their own.  However, let your daughter know she can seek your assistance before she allows anything to become a crisis.  I am assuming you have given her guidance about credit card debt and basic health practices.  Also, you might want to explain that you will not be taking steps to maintain her former lifestyle once she moves out. For example, clothes shopping, haircuts, cell phone bill, extra gas money, medical or dental expenses.  This talk should be informative, but not manipulative.  Often young adults are so excited at the thought of being on their own, that they don’t see the big picture.  When my son called with a very expensive utility bill he and his roommates couldn’t pay, I explained that I would assist them, but made it clear that I would not fix the same problem twice.  This shows you’re interested in a good outcome, but allows respect for the fact that you’re both functioning adults. If she still decides to move out after this friendly and informative conversation, be supportive, wish her well, and get back to your own interests in life. Be well.

 

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 atstraighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.