Category Archives: The Weekly News

Walnut Protests Cell Towers

Photo Courtesy: Google

Photo Courtesy: Google

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – More than 800 Walnut residents received a small victory this month as their combined efforts caused the denial of two license agreements between the City of Walnut and Verizon Wireless for cell phone towers – one on Gartel Drive and another at Snow Creek Park.

According to Walnut resident, Heinrich Dy, more than 800 residents signed an online petition at kidsafegps.com, asking City officials to deny the installation of cell phone towers within 1,500 feet of any school and deny the license agreement for a proposed tower at 555 Gartel Drive. Dy and the other residents claimed that the area has no need for a new cell phone tower and that building one so close to residential houses, schools and parks would negatively impact the City, bring down property values and do not fit the usage of the area.

Dy claims that he has working knowledge of how cell phone coverage works, stating that he worked as a wireless network performance specialist for Microcell/Clearnet in Canada: he has also worked for Telus in Canada and Telstra in Australia – all of which are cell phone companies. Along with another resident, Cal Poly Pomona Electrical Engineering Professor and principal investigator at AT&T Bell Laboratories, James Yeh, the two are being called “expert witnesses” in regard to cell phone communication and voicing their concerns about Verizon’s plans.

“With my experience with cell phone companies, what I can say is that a simple drive test coverage map for telephone service is a basic tool that every engineering department of every cell phone company uses,” Dy said. “This knowledge is what allowed the residents to a) create our own maps; b) seek out crowd funded maps; and c) insist on those maps being made available by Verizon – which Verizon refused to provide even in repeated requests. It also allowed us to see that the supposed drive test map that Verizon provided was not the correct map needed to prove ‘significant gap.’”

While Dy and other residents are vehemently opposed to the new cell phone towers, representatives for Verizon Wireless claim that those estimated 800 residents do not speak for the entire city, and especially their Walnut customer base. During the Aug. 12 City Council meeting, Verizon Representative Jane Collier stated that 361 Verizon customers/Walnut residents voiced their approval of the cell phone towers via text messages from August 7-9. Collier stated that the text message was sent out to their Walnut customers as proof of the City’s need for another cell tower and that additional coverage is needed in parts of the City.

“Verizon has provided the City of Walnut with data to demonstrate the need for improved Verizon Wireless coverage and capacity in the area,” said Verizon Wireless Public Relations and Employee Communications representative for Northern California, Heidi Flato. “Customers are increasing their wireless use at a dramatic pace.”

Flato also mentioned that Verizon is expecting the demand for cell phone services to increase by 650 percent by the year 2018, and that the decline of landlines will cause a higher demand for cell phone service to avoid dropped calls to friends, family members and emergency services.

Flato also mentioned that Verizon’s research shows that good cell phone coverage is a positive aspect for perspective home buyers – meaning that increased coverage would make Walnut more appealing to homeowners.

Fellow cell phone tower protestor and Walnut resident, Angela Cinader, also brought up safety concerns for the tower, stating that cell phone towers constructed so close to schools and heavily populated areas have an inherent “risk of collapses and fires.” Cinader noted that if a cell phone tower were placed at either Snow Creek Park or Gartel Drive, Verizon would be putting adults and children in harm’s way.

“They keep coming back despite lack of solid evidence on significant gap and a thorough alternative sites analysis,” Cinader said. “But the fact that both the Planning Commission and the City Council have voted to reject these towers shows that our City government has considered all the evidence objectively, and we residents are grateful for that.”

While the estimated 800 petition signatures can celebrate in their victory for now, the fight is not over, according to Dy. After Verizon’s license agreement was denied on Aug. 5 and 12, the company will have 15 working days to appeal and once again attempt to approve their license agreement and build their new towers somewhere in Walnut.

WHO Will Care For Your Eyes?

little-girl-with-reading-glasses-onStaff Reports

Walnut – For many years, Walnut Hills Optometry (WHO) has taken great care of the vision needs of its community, serving patients from Walnut and Diamond Bar, to Chino Hills and Rowland heights.  Because of the quality of service provided, as well as the trusting care given by the doctor, patients travel from the Los Angeles and Inland Empire areas as well.

WHO considers vision to be a precious gift, and their office takes pride in providing thorough eye exams.  They believe that quality eye care involves consistent care by a professional.  Carmela Larino, O.D. and her loyal staff will give your eyes the personalized care and attention they deserve.

Dr. Larino is proud to serve the community she grew up in.  She attended Rowland Unified schools from elementary through high school, and then attended UC Irvine before receiving her doctorate degree from the Southern California College of Optometry.  In 2002 to 2004, Dr. Larino was honored at her alma mater – Nogales High School – by being inducted onto their Wall of Fame.  She is a member of the American Optometric Association, California Optometric Association, and the Rio Hondo Optometric Society, where she stays current on the latest in eye care.  As a local resident, you might find Dr. Larino eating at your favorite restaurant, shopping in a local store, or attending a community event.

Walnut Hills Optometry offers personalized eye examinations, diabetic and eye health exams, and the management and care of a multitude of eye and vision concerns.  A wide variety of eyewear is also available, from progressive and polarized lenses, to silicone high-oxygen contacts, even designer frames.  Lasik Surgery co-management is also available through WHO.

WHO is conveniently located near the 10, 60 and 57 freeways, on the border of Walnut and West Covina, at 18736 East Amar Road (at the corner of Nogales Street and Amar Road, next to Papa John’s Pizza).  Their hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  You can reach them at (626) 965-3878 or (909) 594-1153.  For more information visit their website at www.walnuthillsoptometry.com.

WHO looks forward to seeing you and your family soon!

Anxiety And Our Youth

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

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

 

I have been a psychotherapist for 15 years, and have worked with people of all ages with various issues.

I’m constantly amazed when I have a child or teen brought to me for anxiety issues. We seem to have created a generation that feels very inadequate and struggles with growing up and being successful.  The issues this generation worries about are things my generation didn’t have to deal with.

Our colleges are impacted and hard to get into.  Now kindergarteners have homework and are expected to read and know many more things.  Video games and television are replacing playing outdoors in the fresh air and getting much needed exercise – this outdoor playing is such a great way to reduce or eliminate stress.  Social media, unfortunately, has made this generation very lazy and childhood obesity and diabetes are on the rise.

As parents and community leaders, we have a social responsibility to help this generation find a healthy balance in their lives in every area.  We need to support and encourage our youth.  We need to provide them with the necessary tools to help them strive to become their best.  We need to have faith in our youth, as so many of them are diamonds in the rough.  We need to give them the guidance to help them shine and reach their full potential.

We need to teach our teens that problems can be worked through, and that drinking and drugs are not a solution.  We need to teach them how to meditate, not medicate, to quiet their busy minds.  We need to teach them how to relax by finding balance, getting organized, prioritizing and effectively managing their time and communicating what’s working and not working in their lives.

Please don’t assume that our youth are all pot-smoking, video-game-playing, lazy, worthless human beings.  They are just scared and need some help finding their way!

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.

Chino Hills Burglary Arrests

Deputies prevent two burglaries as a result of immediate response to reports of suspicious subjects

 

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Chino Hills Deputies prevented two pre-dawn burglaries on Mon., Aug. 17, as a result of immediate response to reports of suspicious subjects in the area.  Five people were arrested for attempted burglary and conspiracy to commit burglary.
According to the Chino Hills Police Department, Trayvean Waever, 18; Terrell Small, 22; Isaac Metzmeier, 18 – all of Yucca Valley; Maurice Ross-Goodson, 19, of Joshua Tree; and a 17-year old juvenile from Pomona, were arrested on suspicion of knocking on doors and trying to remove screens from empty houses.
A resident called authorities at 3:35 a.m. to report seeing several suspects in the neighborhood knocking on doors in the 3200 block of Olympic View. When Deputies arrived on scene, four male subjects were seen fleeing the area on foot. The four suspects were found and detained, and a fifth suspect was found at a nearby park. The suspect’s vehicle was also found, parked in close proximity.
During the investigation, Deputies found a starter pistol – which is essentially a revolver with a plugged barrel that renders it incapable of shooting live ammunition, but looks like a functioning firearm. Detectives also uncovered evidence of a conspiracy between the suspects, who were planning to travel from the Yucca Valley area with the intent to commit burglary of empty homes in the Chino Hills area.
The Chino Hills Police Department would like to remind residents to make proper arrangements with friends, neighbors or family members to have their homes maintained while on vacation. Be sure to have mail and newspapers picked up, or suspended to avoid obvious signs that nobody is home.
 

You Have The Power

This Is No Trendy Diet – Power Foods Help Weight Loss, Improve Energy, and Fight Disease

By Manuel Villacorta

Detoxing seems to be the catch word of the day, with people subsisting on juice, tea, or some other liquid that is meant to flush impurities out of their cells. But, how does that work?  Since no one food or herb has ever been demonstrated to be able to detox the organs and I am not aware of any research that has been able to identify the toxins, if we have functioning skin, liver and kidneys we are detoxing every day. Even if a quick detox works for weight loss, the gains are short-term because you can’t stay on it forever. Any weight loss we see is because we’re not getting enough calories.
The key to healthy nutrition is variety. Far from drinking just juice for days on end, the way to help our body repair and restore itself is through a full range of healthy foods. The simplest way to think about this concept is color. The colors in fruits and vegetables are caused by phytochemicals, which have been shown to have a range of healthy properties. I recommend you eat all the colors of the fruit and vegetable rainbow.

Peruvian Superfoods are so beneficial because they are low in calories and high in nutrients. The good news is that Superfoods are becoming easier to find in supermarkets as demand increases, with more and more people realizing their health benefits. Superfoods promote weight loss, boost energy, enhance memory and fight disease – and when the weight comes off, it stays off!
———————–
“Health is not a diet plan, but a lifestyle. Understand your body, your strengths, and your limits and use this knowledge to make a change. Stop dieting, start living.”
 – Manuel Villacorta
——————–
Manuel Villacorta, M.S., R.D., is a nationally recognized, award-winning registered dietitian with more than 16 years of experience as a nutritionist, and is a respected and trusted voice in the health and wellness industry. For more information, visit WholebodyReboot.com.

Borrowing From Others

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

As we go through life, it seems that we are always borrowing things from our friends or neighbors.

When we were in grade school, many of us asked to borrow a pencil or piece of paper from a friend or classmate.  Parents and teachers tried to teach us that we needed to share with others.

Today, kids in school are asking to borrow a friend’s smart phone, tablet, computer or iPad.  How times have changed!

When we were in high school, many of us were eager to borrow the family car to go out on a date or with a group of friends.   The old family station wagon was a prized possession until we could afford a car of our own.

During the college years, it was not uncommon to borrow a text book or lecture notes from a classmate so you could catch up after you skipped a class.

As new home owners, we frequently asked to borrow a neighbor’s shovel or wheelbarrow as we planted landscaping or put up a fence.  Neighbors helped neighbors install sprinkler systems and new appliances.

If you owned a pickup truck, you were one of the most popular people on the block.  Personally, I never wanted to own a pickup truck, but I was sure glad to have a few friends who had one just in case I needed to borrow it!

As we get older, the items we need to borrow change.  At our church, we have a wheelchair and some crutches that people have donated.  People often borrow these items for themselves or for older loved ones.

Recently, I had surgery on my knee.  One of the items that I needed was an ice machine that enables you to wrap a flow of cold water around your knee or leg.  It sure helped!  My wife put out a request on Facebook and we received several replies.  I was surprised to learn how many people have had similar surgeries and owned an ice-wrap machine!  What does that tell you about the age and health of my peers?

There is a verse in the Bible that says, “Good will come to him who is generous and lends freely,” (Psalm 112:5).  God is pleased with those who are generous and willing to lend and share with others.

Let me encourage you to be more willing to share and lend the possessions and resources God has entrusted to you.  Be willing to allow others to use your shovel, wheelbarrow or crutches, just as others have been willing to share theirs with you.

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.

Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station Annual Picnic

Photo courtesy: www.ShotByMarc.com The Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station held their annual picnic on Sat., Aug. 8, at the Brookside Equestrian Center in Walnut. The event celebrates local Deputies, and provides some much-deserved down time to socialize with their families, friends and local dignitaries in a relaxed setting with lots of good food, games, and fun for little and big kids alike.

Photo courtesy: http://www.ShotByMarc.com
The Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station held their annual picnic on Sat., Aug. 8, at the Brookside Equestrian Center in Walnut. The event celebrates local Deputies, and provides some much-deserved down time to socialize with their families, friends and local dignitaries in a relaxed setting with lots of good food, games, and fun for little and big kids alike.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 08.22.15

2015-Aug22-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-Aug22-Weekly-WEB

Modest Is Hottest


By Sarah Sanchez

From shirts that show midriffs to bikini bottoms that only cover half of your bum – has anyone noticed the change in fashion trends? It seems like what’s “in,” is to show more skin.

It’s hard to talk to teens and young adults about going against the trend, but local youth pastor, Chris Kirish, at IgniteVPC, gave it a shot with a modesty-themed sermon last month.

Pastor Kirish talked about how bikinis were invited by French designer, Louis Reard, in 1946. Bathing suits at that time were more modest, only showing a small section of the midriff.   In fact, when the bikini was introduced, it was so scandalous that Reard couldn’t find a model to wear it.  He resorted to having an Exotic dancer being the first woman to ever wear a bikini in public.

Kirish went on to educate the students about a study that was done to determine what men thought of when they saw a woman in a bikini. Men in the study were hooked up to a machine and given a variety of pictures. When they saw women in bikinis or sexually-related clothing, the region of the brain associated with tool use lit up. Therefore, the conclusion of the study indicated that when women wear bikinis or sexually-related clothing, men see them as objects, not a person they can socialize with.

As a woman, I personally thought this study was eye opening on how important it is to dress modestly. Our youth looks up to us, whether we want them to or not. So if we’re wearing a bathing suit that looks like it could be underwear (or smaller than underwear), then our youth will do the same, thinking that it’s okay.

Getting a bad tan line in a modest bathing suit is the rising issue when this topic is discussed. But really, what’s more important: getting a good tan line (that you probably will be the only one seeing), or setting a good example to the youth in your life? Considering there are so many cute bathing suits and clothing that cover up, I believe that we can set a good example and still look fabulous doing so.

Many believe this is a controversial subject, but I believe that “Modest IS Hottest”. Does your wardrobe show where you stand?

Pomona: Civilian Volunteers In Patrol

Pomona Police Department seeks local residents interested in becoming CVPs

Photo Courtesy: PPD

Photo Courtesy: PPD

Staff Reports

Pomona – The CVP program was created by the Pomona Police Department to allow civilian volunteers to help the Department achieve its goals, while helping to serve and protect the local community. CVP members play a vital role in helping to identify suspicious activities, crimes in progress (or other dangerous circumstances), and notify the authorities for proper handling. Some CVP members also help enforce the City’s parking regulations through the issuance of parking citations.
According to the Pomona Police Department, in order to be considered as a volunteer candidate for the CVP program, an individual must:
– Be an adult (18 years old)
– Complete an oral interview
– Submit to a background check
– Commit to participate in continual training classes
– Meet minimum driving standards
While CVP members are not law enforcement officers, they act as the Police Department’s “eyes and ears” in the community, requesting assistance from officers when needed. The CVPs receive training from the Department to assist with such areas as:
– Traffic Control
– First Aid and CPR
– Parking Enforcement
– Vacation and Business Checks
– Residential Patrols
– Assisting with City-sponsored events

If you have questions about the CVP Program, or would like to submit an application, please contact Officer Jung at (909) 620-3641, or Harry_Jung@ci.pomona.ca.us.

 

Pomona: Giveaway Provides 1,800 Backpacks To Students

By Juliette Funes

Photo Courtesy: PUSD Pomona Unified children line up to receive age-appropriate school materials, during the District’s Family Support and Resource Center's annual Backpack and School Supply Giveaway event on Aug. 5.

Photo Courtesy: PUSD
Pomona Unified children line up to receive age-appropriate school materials, during the District’s Family Support and Resource Center’s annual Backpack and School Supply Giveaway event on Aug. 5.

Pomona – Hundreds of Pomona Unified children received complimentary backpacks and school supplies at District Family Support and Resource Center’s annual Backpack and School Supply Giveaway on Aug. 5, a week before the start of the school on Aug. 12.

Now celebrating its fourth year, the event provided Pomona Unified families with more than 1,800 free backpacks filled with age-appropriate school materials, including books, pencils, folders and binders.

“With the start of school just around the corner, it is great to see our kids enthusiastic about getting their new backpacks and school supplies and I want to thank the Family Support and Resource Center for bringing this program to them,” said Board President Andrew Wong. “Through this event, the District is helping to ensure our students are able to focus on learning and successfully tackling the new school year.”

The Family Support and Resource Center supports Pomona Unified students and families with a variety of services and referrals that address mental health, alcohol and substance abuse, health care and housing, as well as emergency basic support referrals and assistance for clothing, food, utilities, furniture/household items or school items.

Originally organized to assist the District’s homeless student population, the backpack giveaway event has become a vital resource for Pomona Unified families and students who need school supplies and books for the new school year.

The items were donated by several community groups, including Feed the Children, Christ’s Church of the Valley in San Dimas and School on Wheels, which provides tutoring, school supplies and other educational assistance to children in Southern California.

For more information about the Family Support and Resource Center, call (909) 397-4491, ext. 26501.

 

Irwindale Young Citizen Of The Year

The Irwindale Chamber of Commerce and the City of Irwindale are pleased to announce Klaudia Gallardo as the Irwindale Young Citizen of the Year for 2015.

Photo Courtesy: City of Irwindale Caleb and Christian Cardenas sitting with winner Klaudia Gallardo.

Photo Courtesy: City of Irwindale
Caleb and Christian Cardenas sitting with winner Klaudia Gallardo.

Staff Reports

Irwindale – The 2015 Young Citizen of the Year Competition was held at the Irwindale Senior Center on Wed., Aug. 5.  Irwindale Police Department Captain, Ty Henshaw, served as the event emcee to a packed room of local residents, family members of the contestants, and business representatives.

Three outstanding Irwindale youth competed by presenting an original essay answering a question about the three things they strive for in life, and responding to impromptu questions from the judges. Klaudia Gallardo, Caleb Cardenas and Christian Cardenas all impressed the judges with their poise, enthusiasm, thoughtfulness, and community involvement.

Marlene Carney, Irwindale Chamber CEO, said “We are so proud of these cool kids that are smart, gutsy, who care about the community and are willing to step out there and do what it takes to make a positive difference in their lives and the lives of others.   This continues to be one of my favorite chamber events and I applaud the participants.”

Irwindale Council members, Albert F. Ambriz, and  H. Manuel Ortiz, were in attendance, along with Irwindale Chamber of Commerce Board Chair, Dawn DeVroom (Arrow Automotive) and board members, Victor Benavides (City of Hope), and Phyllis Ferguson (California Custom Fruits and Flavors). The judges were Ferguson, Benavides, and Gabrielle Mejia of Foothill Transit.  Vocalist Loretta Corpis provided an uplifting musical interlude.

This event could not have been possible without the generous support of sponsors, committee members, judges, and attendees, and the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce and the City of Irwindale would like to thank the following individuals and companies:

Dinner Sponsors:  MillerCoors and Avolio’s Italian Restaurant

Speech Sponsors:  City of Hope, Foothill Transit, and United Rock Products.

Irwindale Young Citizen of the Year Committee: Eloise Beltran (Irwindale Senior Center); Marlene Carney (Irwindale Chamber of Commerce); April Kelcy (Earthquake Solutions); Veronica Orosco (Irwindale Chamber of Commerce); and Priscilla Zepeda (Irwindale Recreation Department). 

Irwindale Senior Center Staff, The Produce Place, Loretta Corpis, and Steve Castro of Eagle Photography.  Coach/Public Speaking Coach:  April Kelcy (Earthquake Solutions, Irwindale Toastmasters Club).

Thank you to the San Gabriel Valley Young Marines for their participation in honoring our nation.

Photo Courtesy: City of Irwindale

Photo Courtesy: City of Irwindale

Orange County: West Nile Virus Active

Photo Courtesy: nwmadil.com Mosquito breeding sources

Photo Courtesy: nwmadil.com
Mosquito breeding sources

Staff Reports

Orange County – The Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District (OCMVCD) would like to make residents aware, in portions of Northeastern Orange County, that mosquito and dead bird samples have tested positive for West Nile virus.
In 2014, Orange County reported the highest number of human infections of West Nile virus in the nation with 280, including nine deaths. OCMVCD uses more than ten years of sampling data collected during routine monitoring and testing of mosquitoes, dead birds, and human infections to determine areas of greater risk throughout the county.
To date in 2015, OCMVCD confirmed West Nile virus-positive test results from the cities of Anaheim, Cypress, Fullerton, Huntington Beach, Orange, San Juan Capistrano, Santa Ana, Tustin, and Yorba Linda. So far this year, OCMVCD has reported a total of 81 positive mosquito samples and ten dead birds. There are no reported human cases at this time. A total list of all positives can be found at www.ocvcd.org.
Mosquitoes acquire the virus when they feed on infected birds, and subsequently pass the virus along when they bite humans. There is no cure for West Nile virus.
Partnership to Protect Your Community: All mosquitoes need standing water to complete their life cycle. Even though OCMVCD Inspectors are conducting investigations to find mosquito breeding in communities all over Orange County, standing water sources remain unidentified. These unidentified sources are maintaining mosquito populations and threaten your quality of life. OCMVCD is asking for your help to find and eliminate hidden sources.
How You Can Help: It takes just two minutes of your time to help prevent future outbreaks of West Nile virus. Simply inspect your property and dump or drain any water found, and take the necessary steps to prevent the source from refilling. In addition to common breeding sources, above and underground remnants of our agricultural past (standpipes, well heads, irrigation channels) may be present on your property and can breed mosquitoes. This easy practice is the most effective method of controlling mosquitoes. If you observe any standing water not on your property, alert OCMVCD. An inspector will be dispatched to catalogue and treat the source with mosquito control products.
Residents can also take an active role in reducing the threat of West Nile virus by taking the following steps:
· Eliminate any standing water around your home.
· Ensure that swimming pools, spas, and ponds are properly maintained.
· Change the water in pet dishes, birdbaths, and other small containers weekly.
· Request FREE mosquitofish for placement in ornamental ponds.
· Make sure all window and door screens on your house are in good repair.
· Wear a repellent containing DEET®, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR 3535.
· Contact the Orange County Mosquito and Vector Control District to report dead birds or neglected pools by calling (714) 971-2421 or (949) 654-2421, or visit www.ocvcd.org

Summer Barbeques: A Cautionary Tale

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – On Wed., Aug. 5, Chino Valley Fire District firefighters responded to a barbeque fire on the 16000 block of Pipeline Avenue in Chino that resulted in minor injuries. Firefighters kept the fire from spreading to the patio and home by isolating it to the cooking station area. CVFD firefighter/paramedics treated a female patient for minor burn injuries.

Summer is a great time for get-togethers and barbeques, and the best way to ensure that your family and guests have a happy and memorable experience, is to exercise caution when using outdoor grills.

The Chino Valley Fire District offers the following guidelines and tips to help keep you safe.

Before Using Your Propane Grill:

  • Check all fuel connection points to confirm they are tight.
  • Check the fuel source hose for any leaks:
    • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle.
    • Turn the fuel source on. If there is a leak, the gas will release bubbles around the hose. If there are no bubbles, your grill is safe to use.
    • If there are bubbles, turn off the tank and check connections, then have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
    • If the leak doesn’t stop, call the Fire Department immediately.

When Turning On The Grill:

  • Make sure the lid is open when lighting the grill. This will help prevent a possible gas explosion.

When The Grill Is On:

  • If you smell gas while you are cooking, turn off the gas and burners.
  • If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
  • If the smell continues, move away from the grill and call the Fire Department immediately. Do not move the grill.

For more information on fire and life safety, contact the Chino Valley Fire District at (909) 902-5260, or visit their website at www.chinovalleyfire.org.

Pomona: PUSD Launches Immersion Program

English-Mandarin coming to Pantera Elementary

 

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – One class of Pantera Elementary kindergarteners will learn how to read, write and communicate effectively in both English and Mandarin through the introduction of the Pomona Unified School District’s latest dual-language immersion program.

Launched on Aug. 12, the first day of school for Pomona Unified students, the new program will provide Mandarin and English language instruction to 25 kindergarten students, ensuring they receive an exciting and challenging educational opportunity where they will gain the bilingual skills needed to succeed in a 21st century world.

The inaugural class at Pantera (located at 801 Pantera Drive in Diamond Bar) is already full, but Pomona Unified is accepting sign-ups for the 2016-17 academic year.

“Pomona Unified is incorporating this new English-Mandarin dual-immersion program to provide our students the tools they need to succeed in a globally competitive and multicultural market, all while improving their literacy skills and engaging in the District’s rigorous core curriculum,” Board of Education President Andrew Wong said.

The program follows a 50:50 model, where 50 percent of instruction will occur in the target language of Mandarin and 50 percent of instruction will be in English, including 30 minutes of daily English language development dedicated to English learners. The class is comprised of native English speakers and native Mandarin speakers, enabling both sets of students to interact and learn new vocabulary skills.

“This program presents our students with a unique opportunity to speak multiple languages both inside and beyond the walls of a traditional classroom,” said Pantera Elementary School Principal Todd Riffell. “Students’ education will be enhanced because of the cultural awareness, acceptance and rich language that is shared and exchanged between students enrolled in these classrooms.”

As students advance in the program, they will demonstrate proficiency in both languages, navigating complex material in English and Mandarin. Students enrolled in this program also have the chance to earn a State Seal of Biliteracy on their high school diplomas.

As part of the District’s 2015-18 Local Control and Accountability Plan, Pomona Unified is also expanding its English-Spanish language immersion program – which just completed its first year at Westmont Elementary – to Montvue Elementary School this fall.

“Pomona’s dual-language program embraces and acknowledges the rich cultural diversity of our community,” Superintendent Richard Martinez said. “By the time students reach the 6th Grade, they will have spent seven academic years immersed in bilingual, bicultural and biliterate studies, which will prove invaluable as they continue their education.”

For more information on the program, visit www.pusd.org/DLI.

Chino Hills: Station Implements Policy For Unsafe Driving

Focused enforcement coming to Carbon Canyon Road

Photo Courtesy: CarbonCanyonChronicle.com

Photo Courtesy: CarbonCanyonChronicle.com
Carbon Canyon Road is comprised of plenty of S-curve and hairpin turns, as well as high and low speed limits and a mostly two-lane highway running from Brea to Chino Hills.

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – As part of an ongoing effort to educate drivers and encourage safe driving practices on Carbon Canyon Road, the Chino Hills Police Department will be conducting focused enforcement for violations of the California Vehicle Code. Violations of speeding, unsafe passing on the left, crossing double-parallel yellow lines, and aggressive driving will be strictly enforced.

According to the Chino Hills Police Department, as this enforcement policy is implemented, they are asking drivers for their cooperation in operating their motor vehicles and motorcycles in a safe manner. The safe operation of a motor vehicle is the responsibility of every driver and they are seeking your help in reducing traffic collisions.

If you witness aggressive and reckless driving, please contact your local law enforcement immediately. For ongoing traffic problems, you can contact the Chino Hills Police Department directly at (909) 364-2000 or WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration defines aggressive driving as “the operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger persons or property.”  Common characteristics of the aggressive driver include:
• They are high-risk drivers, more likely to drink and drive, speed, or drive unbelted.
• Their vehicle provides anonymity, allowing them to take out their frustrations on other drivers.
• Their frustration levels are high; concern for other motorists is low.
• They consider vehicles as objects and fail to consider the human element involved; therefore, they seldom consider the consequences of their actions.
• They run stop signs, disobey red lights, speed, tailgate, weave in and out of traffic, pass on the right, make unsafe lane changes, flash their lights, blow their horns, or make hand and facial gestures.

The Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System statistics show that unsafe speed, improper turning, and unsafe lane changes are the top causes of traffic collisions. From August 2014 through July 2015, Carbon Canyon Road has experienced 3 fatal collisions, 91 injury collisions, and 105 property damage collisions all within the city of Chino Hills.
Carbon Canyon Road, also known as State Route 142, traverses through the city of Chino Hills and the city of Brea. This asphalt roadway mainly consists of one lane in each direction that is divided by double-parallel yellow lines, and the speed limit for a majority of the road is 45 MPH.

Please allow yourself sufficient time to travel to your destination as this heavily traveled roadway experiences the greatest congestion during early morning and late afternoon hours. Please act responsibly when behind the wheel, and drive safe.

Inland Empire: Deadly Shooting In Apple Valley

Staff Reports

Apple Valley – On Thurs., Aug. 6, at approximately 9:25 p.m., Deputies from the Apple Valley Sheriff’s Station were called to the 21000 block of Nisqually Road in reference to a shooting.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department (SBSD), Deputies arrived on scene and found victims, Julian Kilgore, 23, and Richard Fenton, 21, both residents of Apple Valley, suffering from gunshot wounds. Kilgore was transported to St. Mary’s Medical Center, but despite life saving efforts, he was pronounced deceased that same night at 10:35 p.m.  Fenton was transported to an alternate hospital and is expected to survive.
Detectives from the SBSD Specialized Investigations Division-Homicide Detail were summoned to conduct the investigation

On Fri., Aug. 7, Arieon Shoulders, 23, of Victorville, was arrested and booked into the High Desert Detention Center for Murder.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is urged to contact Detective Adam Salsberry or Sergeant Robert Warrick at (909) 387-3589. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463), or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at www.wetip.com.

Baldwin Park Unified Expands STEM

District partners with Cal Poly Pomona College of Engineering to strengthen career pathways

 

Staff Reports

Baldwin Park – Baldwin Park Unified is expanding its partnership with Project Lead The Way (PLTW) – the nation’s leading provider of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) curriculum – to deepen student opportunities for career and college pathways.

Baldwin Park High School – which launched Project Lead The Way’s freshman-year Introduction to Engineering Design class in 2014-15 – will add Principles of Engineering for sophomores this fall. The school plans to add a grade level each year.

Holland Middle School, meanwhile, is launching PLTW Gateway, which teaches students the principles of problem solving as they design playgrounds and furniture with specialized software.

Santa Fe School, a Grade 3 to 8 school, will provide Gateway for 8th Graders with an introduction to robotics for 5th Graders, and launch a PLTW club.

“These programs will strengthen our students’ knowledge, especially in engineering, as we begin to incorporate the Next Generation Science Standards, which emphasize more hands-on learning and more real-world application of science,” Superintendent Dr. Paul J. Sevillano said.

Baldwin Park has partnered with Cal Poly Pomona’s College of Engineering as part of the effort. Cal Poly is training and certifying teachers.  Students who complete the engineering pathway will move to the front of the registration line for Cal Poly’s engineering program.

District leaders say the new curriculum complements efforts by Baldwin Park High’s STEAM Academy, Holland Middle School’s exemplary science program and Santa Fe School’s focus on STEM, especially technology.

The STEAM Academy, which includes arts as well as STEM topics, is one of three career academies at Baldwin Park High School. The program provides interdisciplinary instruction around its STEAM theme. Signature projects include an egg drop, bridge-building and vehicle-building contests. Topics weave through math, history, English and social studies.

“Project Lead The Way adds a vital engineering component to our program,” Principal Anthony Ippolito said. “Together, these elements are really helping us to ensure students have the knowledge and skills to pursue college and career pathways.”

Baldwin Park’s efforts to strengthen college and career pathways helped earn the school a California Gold Ribbon – the state’s highest award – in 2015.

Ippolito said the programs offered at Holland and Santa Fe will work in conjunction with Baldwin Park’s engineering program and could even help prepare students for the high school’s Medical Academy, which has a sports medicine focus.

Holland Middle School, which earned a state Gold Ribbon this spring for its effective science instruction, will offer the Gateway program’s foundational class in engineering modeling and design as an 18-week program in fall and spring, allowing up to 50 students to take part. In 2016-17, Holland will add a foundational program in automation and robotics; specialized courses may follow the next year.

“We’re building a pipeline of opportunities for our students that will continue in high school and eventually lead to college,” Principal Michael Rust said. “We’re dedicated to giving these students every opportunity under the sun to succeed.”

At Santa Fe School – a smaller campus with about 400 students – programs will be offered to more than 30 8th Grade students as an elective and incorporated into science classes taken by all 5th Graders, Principal Margie Clark said. In addition, the school is looking to launch a PLTW club to help spark student interest.

“The goal is to get students excited about these opportunities,” Clark said. “I think they’ll be amazed at all the things they can create, especially with the robotics elements.”

Straight Talk With Danice

Dear Danice,

I attended a lecture on women’s health last year, and heard you speak about some products you recommend for hot flashes, mood swings, and PMS.  I need it for hot flashes and my daughter needs it for PMS.  I’ve never heard of a Naturopath doctor before, but I enjoyed your lecture.  Thank you.

-Marlene

 

Dear Marlene,

My favorite product for mood swings and PMS is a product called FEMALE drops.  This product is offered by Dr. Richard Schulze.  He also offers FEM PLUS drops.  This formula has additional herbs to help you relax, so it’s best to take it only at night.  Dr Schulze’s web site is www.herbdoc.com.  His herbal formulas are outstanding.  I have used many of them myself over the years.  As for the hot flashes, the product I like best is called DIM. (Di-Indolylmethane) This is also a plant based product.  It is available from a company called Health Resources (www.healthresources.net) – wishing you relief.

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

Pomona: Officer Involved Shooting

Staff Reports

Pomona – Sheriff’s Homicide detectives are investigating the circumstances surrounding a Pomona Police Department Officer-Involved Shooting, which occurred near the 300 block of East Center Street in the city of Pomona on Fri., Aug. 7, at approximately 10:38 p.m.

According to the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Detectives have learned that Pomona Police Officers assigned to a joint gang suppression team accompanied by District Attorney Investigators were on patrol in the city of Pomona when they saw a Hispanic male suspect and another individual involved in a heated argument.

After the argument, the suspect rode away on his bicycle, and Pomona Police Officers attempted to detain him.  As one of the Officers exited his vehicle, he ordered the suspect to stop. Instead of stopping, the suspect rode away from the Officers westbound on Center Street.  The Officer ran after the suspect while a Pomona Officer and a District Attorney Investigator paralleled the suspect in their vehicle.

At one point during the chase, the suspect stopped his bicycle, made a U-turn, and began to ride toward the Officer who was chasing him.  The suspect then withdrew a .357 caliber revolver from his waistband and pointed it at the Officer who was chasing him on foot.  The Officer, in fear for his life, withdrew his duty weapon, fired, and struck the suspect multiple times in the upper torso.

The suspect, a 32-year old Pomona resident, was transported to a local hospital where he is listed in stable condition.

No officers were injured during the shooting.

A loaded .357 caliber revolver was recovered at the scene.