Category Archives: The Weekly News

Hurricane Katrina

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

This month marks the anniversary of Hurricane Katrina that devastated large areas of New Orleans ten years ago.

Katrina was a “super storm,” with powerful winds and a huge tidal surge that overwhelmed the pumping stations and tore holes in the levy system.

The destruction and death caught everyone by surprise.  Almost 1,500 people lost their lives and hundreds of homes were damaged or destroyed

Many churches and non-profit organizations have been involved in rebuilding these communities that were under 15 to 20 feet of water.

Over the past few years, our church has joined this nation-wide effort.  Last month I was able to go for the first time to see the destruction and help with the rebuilding.

When we arrived in New Orleans, I was impressed by how green everything is.  Beautiful trees line the City streets and green lawns stood in stark contrast to our draught-stricken landscape in Southern California.

There is no water shortage in Louisiana.  I suggested that everyone on our team fill up as many bottles as possible so we could bring some water back home, but I don’t think airlines will allow you to bring water through the security check points anymore.

I was also overwhelmed by the humidity.  In Southern California, our weather is pretty dry and humidity is low.  But in New Orleans, it is very humid.  We were drenched with sweat all day long as we worked on different rebuilding projects.

My favorite spot in New Orleans was the local CVS Pharmacy, because they had their air conditioning running full blast.  When I walked into their store, it felt like I entered a freezer.  It was great!

I was very impressed with how friendly people were in New Orleans.  We were often greeted with smiles and kind words as we worked in neighborhoods where people have returned after the hurricane.

I am thankful for the opportunity to work alongside many others who are helping to rebuild neighborhoods in New Orleans.  I’ll share more in my next article.

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.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 08.01.15

2015-Aug1-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-Aug1-Weekly-WEB

The Latest On Recent Telephone Scams

Beware and warn elderly friends

 

Staff Reports

San Dimas – Most of us have become – regrettably – accustomed to unwanted telemarketing calls to our cell and home phones.  But what do you do if the caller identifies as the IRS, law enforcement, bank employee, or other legitimate-sounding authority?

The San Dimas Sheriff’s Station would like to remind you to not allow yourself or an elderly relative to fall victim to phone scams by reviewing the following information and becoming aware of these true examples of fraud situations:

  • “I’m from the IRS and you owe $2,300 now to avoid an audit….”
  • A caller identifies himself as a Deputy Sheriff and demands payment of a fine for failure to appear for jury duty.
  • A caller represents himself as “tech support,” promises to send a rebate for recent computer problems, and asks for information about computer login passwords.  The caller then accesses the victim’s computer, locks it, and demands ransom to unlock the computer.
  • A caller demands a withdrawal of $5,000 from the victim’s bank, threatening arrest without compliance.
  • A caller represents himself as the grandson of the elderly, and asks for a wire of $5,000 to bail out of jail.
  • A caller represents himself as a Police Officer in a far-away state, demanding payment of a fine to keep a relative out of jail.
  • A caller says he’s kidnapped a victim’s daughter, demanding that the victim go to a bank and withdraw $4,700 to release her. The caller had information about the daughter’s school.  She was located safe and unaware.
  • “A new government program will provide free debt relief for 90% of your outstanding credit card debt.  All you have to do is send us $500.”

First of all, DO NOT MAKE A PAYMENT OF ANY KIND without verifying the information through a reliable source.  NEVER provide a caller with your social security number, birth date, account details, or any other private information. Any legitimate caller would already have this information.

The vast majority of these calls are scams.  Legitimate persons with whom you do business will contact you via conventional means, and none will require payment via wire transfer, electronic debit card such as a “Green Dot” card, or checking account routing number.

Often, scammers who operate by phone don’t want to give you time to think about their pitch; they just want you to say “yes.” But some are so cunning that, even if you ask for more information, they seem happy to comply. They may direct you to a website or otherwise send information featuring “satisfied customers.” These customers, known as shills, are likely as fake as their praise for the company.

Here are a few red flags to help you spot telemarketing scams. If you hear a line that sounds like this, say “No, thank you,” hang up, and file a complaint with the FTC:

  • You’ve been specially selected (for this offer).
  • You’ll get a free bonus if you buy our product.
  • You’ve won one of five valuable prizes.
  • You’ve won big money in a foreign lottery.
  • This investment is low risk and provides a higher return than you can get anywhere else.
  • You have to make up your mind right away.
  • You trust me, right?
  • You don’t need to check our company with anyone.
  • We’ll just put the shipping and handling charges on your credit card.

Scammers use exaggerated — or even fake — prizes, products or services as bait. Some may call you, but others will use mail, texts, or ads to get you to call them for more details. Here are a few examples of “offers” you might get:

  • Travel Packages – “Free” or “Low Cost” vacations can end up cost­ing a bundle in hidden costs. Some of these vacations never take place, even after you’ve paid.
  • Credit and Loans – Advance fee loans, payday loans, credit card protection, and offers to lower your credit card interest ratesare very popular schemes, especially during a down economy.
  • Sham or ExaggeratedBusiness and Investment Opportunities – Promoters of these have made millions of dollars. Scammers rely on the fact that business and investing can be complicated and that most people don’t research the investment.
  • Charitable Causes – Urgent requests for recent disaster relief efforts are especially common on the phone.
  • High-StakesForeign Lotteries – These pitches are against the law, which prohibits the cross-border sale or purchase of lottery tickets by phone or mail. What’s more, you may never see a ticket.
  • Extended Car Warranties – Scammers find out what kind of car you drive, and when you bought it so they can urge you to buy overpriced – or worthless – plans.
  • “Free” Trial Offers – Some companies use free trials to sign you up for products – sometimes lots of products – which can cost you lots of money because they bill you every month until you cancel.

Everyone’s a potential target. Fraud isn’t limited to race, ethnic back­ground, gender, age, education, or income. That said, some scams seem to concentrate in certain groups. For example, older people may be targeted because the caller assumes they may live alone, have a nest egg, or may be more polite toward strangers.

When you get a call from a telemarketer, ask yourself:

  • Who’s calling, and why?The law says telemarketers must tell you it’s a sales call, the name of the seller and what they’re selling before they make their pitch. If you don’t hear this information, say “no thanks,” and get off the phone.
  • What’s the hurry?Fast talkers who use high pressure tactics could be hiding something. Take your time. Most legitimate businesses will give you time and written information about an offer before asking you to commit to a purchase.
  • If it’s free, why are they asking me to pay?Question fees you need to pay to redeem a prize or gift. Free is free. If you have to pay, it’s a purchase, not a prize or a gift.
  • Why am I “confirming” my account information, or giving it out?Some callers have your billing information before they call you. They’re trying to get you to say “okay” so they can claim you approved a charge.
  • What time is it?The law allows telemarketers to call only between 8 am and 9 pm. A seller calling earlier or later is ignoring the law.
  • Do I want more calls like this one?If you don’t want a business to call you again, say so and register your phone number on the National Do Not Call Registry. If they call back, they’re breaking the law.

The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has an excellent site, including a breakdown of some common types of scams, as well as advice on appropriate actions. http://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0076-phone-scams.

Be wise, and don’t fall prey to phone scams. PLEASE share this information with elderly persons and others who might not have access to computer-based information.  If in doubt, call the FTC, your local Police, Sheriff’s Station, lawyer, or knowledgeable business professional for advice.

The San Dimas Sheriff’s Station may be reached at (909) 450-2700; or call the Federal Trade Commission at 1-877-FTC-HELP (1-877-382-4357), or visit www.ftc.gov/complaint .

 

Grass Is Greener

Sarah- NEW croppedBy Sarah Sanchez

My dad wrote a story when I was younger that was based off the popular phrase: the grass is greener on the other side of the fence. His story talked about not letting distractions get in the way of following our hearts, and that we should start watering our own yard instead of looking at the other side of the fence.

I always remembered this story growing up and tried to look at life with that perspective. But now that I’m grown and more aware of the world, I realize that this phrase applies to more areas than we think.

The society we live in is all about focusing on what we don’t have or what we don’t do. With social media all around us, we are constantly looking at other people’s lives and comparing them with our own – “Liking” what we approve of and commenting with our opinions of their statements or pictures.

We are also constantly striving for more (or better) in the workplace and at home. We want a bigger house, a smaller waist, bigger muscles, more pay, a higher rank at work, etc. Basically, we want what we don’t have. But what happens when we do get what we want? What happens when we achieve the goal that we originally set? Are we happy and content with our achievement, or do we set a new goal wanting something else we can’t have?

The sad reality is that most of the time we are not happy. We live life constantly looking on the other side of the fence, looking at the grass we don’t have and thinking that our grass is not nearly as green. Then we start seeking new grass. This is why many marriages fail, with one spouse finding interest in another person that seemed “better.” This is why many millionaires are never truly happy, even though they have more than enough money. This is why many struggle with anorexia and bulimia, because society tells us that thinner is better.

Society doesn’t tell us to go to counseling to fix the problems in our marriage, to seek happiness in things other than money, or to accept the body we have – no matter the size. Society tells us to do the complete opposite. But I think it’s time for us to stop looking at what we don’t have, to stop looking at the other side of the fence, and just water our own grass.

Diamond Bar: City Council Nomination Period

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Tues., Nov. 3, 2015 is the date of the next General Municipal Election, with two seats opening on the Diamond Bar City Council. The nomination period started on Mon., July 13 and will end at 4:30 pm on Fri., Aug. 7.

If an incumbent does not file by the deadline, the close of the nomination period will be extended to 5:30 p.m. on Wed., Aug. 12.

To qualify to run for City Council, potential candidates must be at least 18 years of age, a registered voter and resident of Diamond Bar.

For more information, to request a nomination form, or to schedule a sit-down appointment with the City Clerk to discuss the filing process and campaigning guidelines, call (909) 839.7010.

Orange County: Rockin’ Round The Zoo

Santa Ana Zoo holding black-tie Fundraiser

Photo Courtesy: City of Santa Ana

Photo Courtesy: City of Santa Ana

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – The Friends of Santa Ana Zoo (FOSAZ), a non-profit organization, are pleased to announce tickets sales, media and sponsorship opportunities for its 23rd annual “Rockin’ Round the Zoo” at Zoofari High fundraising event.
Tickets to this year’s exclusive black-tie gala under the stars are $250 each, or $2,500 for a private table of ten. All tickets must be purchased in advance of the event, which will take place Sat., Aug. 29, from 5:30 p.m. to midnight at the Santa Ana Zoo in Prentice Park – located at 1801 Chestnut Avenue in Santa Ana. Space is limited and tickets will not be sold at the door.
With an expected attendance of more than 400 guests, the glamorous Zoofari fundraising event includes valet parking service underwritten by Tudor House Productions, a first-class dining experience catered by Parties by Panache, and a hosted bar including a special “Love Potion #9” signature drink made with Tito’s Handmade vanilla vodka, root beer and vanilla ice cream. Partygoers will enjoy photos with Elvis, 1950s themed décor by R.W.B. Party Props, dancing to the sounds of Groove Factory, and an opportunity to bid on wonderful trips, beautiful baskets, and one-of-a-kind gifts during the event’s live and silent auctions hosted by renowned auctioneer, Kimberly Fladeboe Anderson. Honorees this year include FOSAZ Board Members Patti Mickey, Patty McClendon and Steve McGuigan.
“For more than 20 years, Zoofari has played an integral role in raising the funds needed for all the special projects and improvements going on here at our favorite community zoo, including educational programs, breaking ground on new animal habitats, tackling important conservation initiatives, introducing new rides and upgrading service facilities for our guests to use and enjoy,” says Cathi Decker, event host and Executive Director of FOSAZ.
“Zoofari is a first-class fundraising event that demonstrates the love and investment the local community, surrounding businesses and FOSAZ have for the Zoo,” says David Exline, President of the FOSAZ Board. “This year’s Rockin’ Round the Zoo at Zoofari High promises to be another endearing and festive evening our guests will cherish, and a night of giving that will have a lasting and positive impact on the Santa Ana Zoo for years to come.”
To find out more about 2015 Rockin’ Round the Zoo at Zoofari High, discuss potential sponsorship opportunities or to reserve seats and purchase tickets, call (714) 953-8555, ext. 10, or visit www.santanazoo.org.
The Santa Ana Zoo is home to more than 150 animals, including 50 of the most interesting and engaging monkeys and several endangered species, like the Golden Lion Tamarins. The gates open daily from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.  General Zoo admission is $10.00 for adults, $7.00 for seniors and children 3-12 years. Children under 3 are free. The Conservation Carrousel Rides are $3 each, Zoofari Express Train Rides are $4 each, and combo tickets are $6 each. Children under 2 are free to ride with paid adult on the Train and adults standing with children on the Carrousel are free. For more information call (714) 836-4000 or visit our website at: www.santaanazoo.org.

Pomona Shooting Fatality

Staff Reports

Pomona – On Wed., July 22, at approximately 2:50 a.m., Pomona Police Officers were dispatched to a shooting in the 1300 block of Caprino Way.

Upon arrival, Officers found two victims seated in the back seat of a vehicle in the driveway of a residence.

According to the Pomona Police Department, the female victim – Vanessa Renee Lopez, 28, of Pomona -was pronounced deceased at the scene.  The male victim – Manuel Flores, Jr., 30, of Pomona – was airlifted to a local hospital in critical condition.

Pomona Homicide Detectives are asking anyone with information regarding these incidents to call the Pomona Police Department at (909) 620-2085.  For anyone willing to provide anonymous information, please contact Crime Stoppers at (800) 222-8477, or WeTip at (800) 782-7463.

 

 

Azusa School Earns Grant

Students will be provided with more fruits and vegetables

 

Staff Reports

Azusa – Azusa Unified’s Clifford Murray Elementary recently received $2,540 as one of 371 California schools sharing $12.2 million in federal grants made available through the United States Department of Agriculture’s Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Program.

According to the California Department of Education, in an announcement made on Thurs., July 16, the grant will provide Murray Elementary pupils with a full school year of fresh produce to be distributed three days a week during recess.

The produce – purchased from local farmers – is available to all students whether or not they are part of the National School Lunch Program.

 

Inland Empire: CNUSD Receives National School Safety Honor

Staff Reports

Corona/Norco – The Corona-Norco Unified School District’s Project Safety Net Program has been selected to receive the 2015 Exemplary School Safety Initiative Award by the School Safety Advocacy Council, a recognized leader in school safety based services and training. CNUSD will be honored at the National School Safety Conference on July 27, in Las Vegas, NV.

The Exemplary School Safety Initiative Award honors Districts nation-wide that have implemented programs that have had a significant impact in school safety and the community. The Project Safety Net Program serves over 53,000 students and their families in the District.

Under the outstanding leadership of Associate Superintendent of Instructional Support, Michael Cobarrubias, Project Safety Net was implemented in the summer of 2013 to ensure that each and every member of the school community experiences a safe and caring educational environment.

The overarching goal of Project Safety Net is to identify and anticipate safety concerns and systematically address each concern through the application of best practices. A key component to the success of the program is the development of innovative partnerships between the District and the Corona Police Department, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, students, parents and community organizations.

School safety is of paramount importance to CNUSD, and this accolade confirms the District’s ongoing commitment to keeping its campuses safe.

Celebrate. Remember. Fight Back.

When we walk together, we are bigger than cancer

Photo Courtesy: Google

Photo Courtesy: Google

Staff Reports

Chino – Everyone, in some way, has been touched by cancer.  Either you are a survivor, or know someone who has lost the battle.  You can join the American Cancer Society Relay for Life of Chino help people get well, stay well, find cures, and fight back against cancer.

On Aug. 1-2, from 9 a.m. Saturday to 9 a.m. Sunday, at Ayala Park (14225 Central Ave.), the Relay for Life of Chino will become part of the world’s largest and most impactful fundraising event to end cancer.  This experience unites communities across the globe to celebrate people who have battled cancer, remember loved ones lost, and take action to finish the fight once and for all.

With the support of thousands of volunteers – just like you – the American Cancer Society is helping to save more than 400 lives each day.  According to the Relay for Life Chino website, 81 teams and 1,262 participants have raised more than $124,000 to date.

You can help by starting or joining a team, or become a sponsor by visiting www.relayforlife.org/chinoca.  If you are not able to walk in the relay, you can still become part of the momentum by participating in the Goodwill Fundraiser.  Gently used items from Garage Sale leftovers or getting around to cleaning out those closets can be brought to the parking lot behind the soccer fields at College Park Ave. in Chino, on Aug. 1, between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.  The proceeds for every bin filled for Goodwill Southern California will benefit the American Cancer Society.  For more information on this fundraiser, call (909) 518-0097.

Come and join in the fun at the Relay for Life of Chino.  Whether you participate or just cheer others on, you will help take a stand in the fight against cancer.

 

 

Straight Talk With Danice

A Letter From Debbie

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Q:  My boyfriend is still friends with three of his ex-girlfriends.  I think this is inappropriate when he is in a committed relationship with me.  What do you think?

A:  In my opinion your immaturity and insecurity are inappropriate for a committed relationship.  Adults should be free to choose their own friends.  You either like this guy or you don’t.  If you need to control him, spare him the drama and move on.  I think it’s a good thing when people have shared hard times and they can still manage to be friends. Stop shopping for problems.  Join a drama class if you need an outlet.

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.

Diamond Bar: PUSD Launches English-Mandarin Program

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – 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.

Launching this fall, the program will provide Mandarin and English language instruction to 25 kindergarten students, ensuring they receive an exciting and challenging educational opportunity while gaining 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.

Walnut Aquatic Park Update

Image Courtesy: City of Walnut Conceptual drawing of proposed Aquatic Park

Image Courtesy: City of Walnut
Conceptual drawing of proposed Aquatic Park

By Claudine Stines

Walnut – As you may recall, in October of last year, Standard Pacific filed a Writ of Mandate against the City of Walnut stating, in short, the Three Oaks property could not be sold, but would revert back to the original developer if not used for the purpose intended (swimming pool and recreational facility).  While the Writ was filed, they did not act upon it, preferring to negotiate; negotiations have been going on since that time.

On Wed., July 22, the Walnut City Council was scheduled to review negotiations for the sale of the property in a closed session. After their review of the Purchase and Sale Agreement, the Council was to reconvene at their Meeting and announce the closed session actions, according to page 6 of the Council agenda.

Other developers did bid on the sale of the property for approximately $15 to $16 million, thus causing Standard Pacific to enter the picture.  The Three Oaks property appraised at approximately $5 to $6 million – considerably short of the $20 million the City would need to build the aquatic park, per the conceptual drawing previously submitted on Oct. 8, 2014.

Depending on the financial outcome, the City may have to scale back to accommodate the shortfall, building only the recreation facility, one pool and parking – and develop a strategy to add the additional pool, amphitheater, etc., as additional funds are budgeted in the coming year(s).

As of this month, the renovation of the Walnut High pool has finally started; the estimated time of completion is not known at this time.  You may not be aware that the renovation will cause the City to modify their summer aquatic program due to the configuration of the pool.  They will no longer be able to support instruction for the smaller swimmers and some adult programs due to the new depth of the pool.

While Council members are in favor of the aquatic center, it appears even at this level of government the wheels of progress have been moving slowly. Council members need to hear from citizens; otherwise the momentum of this vision for the community will continue to move at an even slower pace.

Council members may be contacted, as follows:  Robert Pacheco, Mayor (bpacheco@ci.walnut.ca.us); Mary Su, Mayor Pro Tem (msu@ci.walnut.ca.us); Nancy Tragarz, Council Member (ntragarz@ci.walnut.ca.us); Eric Ching, Council Member (eching@ci.walnut.ca.us); Antonio Cartagena, Council Member (tcartagena@ci.walnut.ca.us).

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met for the first time in July following its Fourth of July holiday cancellation, for a short meeting of regular events.

To start, the Council presented a City tile to former Planning Commissioner, Peter Pirritano, for his three years of service to the City. Mayor Steve Tye congratulated Pirritano and thanked him for all of his hard work on the City’s commission.

Tye was accompanied on stage with Senator Bob Huff’s Senior Field Representative, Jody Roberto, and Assemblywoman (and former Diamond Bar City Council member) Ling Ling Chang, who also gave their thanks to Pirritano for his time serving the City.

“This is kind of a sad moment for me,” Pirritano said. “I’ve been involved in so many things in Diamond Bar and I’m hoping to keep doing some of the things I’ve been involved in. I’m just so thankful and grateful and thank all of you for allowing me to serve the City.”

The Council then gave a proclamation that July 2015 be recognized as Parks and Recreation Month, and also presented a certificate to 123 Rakuya, located at 21076 Gold Springs Dr., as the July 2015 New Business of the Month.

Next, the Council read its schedule of future events for a Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on July 23 at 7 p.m.; a Planning Commission meeting on July 28 at 7 p.m.; a Concert in the Park event on July 29 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. featuring Last Chance at Sycamore Canyon Park; a Movies Under the Stars event on July 29, following the concert at Sycamore Canyon Park; and the next City Council meeting on August 4 at 6:30 p.m.

The Council then approved all items on its consent calendar, which included the minutes for the June 16 City Council meeting; the March , April  and May 24 minutes for the Parks and Recreation Commission; the minutes for the May 14 Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting; the ratification of a check register dated June 11 through July 15 totaling $3,599,235.67; the Treasurer’s May 2015 statement; the award of contract to Doctor Playground, Inc. for the removal of playground surfacing at Heritage and Peterson Parks in an amount not to exceed $79,925.42, plus a contingency of $7,993 for unexpected conditions from the Park Development Fund; an approval of contract with Regional Chamber of Commerce San Gabriel Valley for the fiscal year 2015-16 in an amount not to exceed $12,000; an adoption of a resolution approving the design and plans for the construction of the Reagan and Peterson Park parking lot rehabilitation project; an award of contract to E.C. Construction Co. for a total authorization of $497,131.30; an approval of expenditures with Diversified Printers, Inc. for printing services in an amount not to exceed $69,304.40 for fiscal year 2015-16; an approval of Contract Amendment No. 1 with Onward Engineering in the amount of $15,970 for professional engineering services to provide plans, specifications and engineer estimates for the Morning Canyon Roadway rehabilitation project; and the approval of expenditures with Simpson Advertising, Inc. for specialty graphic design services in an amount not to exceed $71,762 for fiscal year 2015-16.

The Council also performed the first reading of an ordinance adding Chapter 1504 to Title 15 of the Diamond Bar Municipal Code to provide an expedited, streamlined permitting process for small residential rooftop solar energy systems.  The Council approved the first reading and would hold the item’s second reading during the next meeting in two weeks.

After the Council was finished with all of its items and discussions, they adjourned with plans to meet on Aug. 4 at 6:30 p.m. in the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Dr.

Getting Ready to Start School

Nancy Stoops and Midnight

Nancy Stoops and Midnight

By Nancy Stoops

In just a few weeks, our carefree summers will end and school will begin. The lazy late nights will be replaced by endless hours of homework and studying. Very soon sleeping late during the week will come to an end, and rising early and on time will be the goal.

Don’t wait until the evening before school starts to change behavioral patterns.  Start right now on adjusting sleeping schedules and give your child or teen an advantage.  It’s really hard to make that sleeping change all at once and in one evening.

Getting organized correctly can be such a help for creating an organized student.  A good notebook with tabbed dividers and a separate folder for each subject within the dividers can be very helpful.  A pouch with the necessary writing implements and a hole-punch, stapler and whatever else will help, is also very necessary.  I think some type of planner or organizer to write down assignments can really help as well.

Help your child or teen figure out why they didn’t meet the academic goals they had for last year.  Teach them to set daily, weekly, semester and annual goals that are realistic and obtainable.  It’s important to understand that many times just doing class and homework isn’t enough, and that studying is an important part of academic success.

I work with many young people in my practice, and they seem to have a hard time asking their teachers for help because they don’t want to appear stupid in front of their peers.  Help your student find ways to get the help they need and in a way that they are okay with.  Remind them to tell you right away before they are failing and can’t raise that grade.

I wish you success this year!

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: Multiple Arrests

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Fri., July 17, Chino Hills Deputies arrested a known Pomona gang member during an extra patrol due to recent vehicle burglaries.

In the parking lot near Costco, located at 13001 Peyton Drive, Deputies conducted a check on an occupied Toyota Corolla parked at the former Best Buy. During the contact, Ruben Castorena, 28, of Pomona, was identified as a Pomona gang member. He claimed a black bag in the back seat was his and Deputies found the bag to contain tools known to be used to commit burglary.

The second occupant of the vehicle was Michael Palma, 28, of Pomona, who was found to be in possession of a controlled substance not prescribed to him.

Both Castorena and Palma were booked into the West Valley Detention Center for possession of Burglary Tools and Controlled Substance.

Also on Fri., July 17, Chino Hills Deputies were in the 15800 block of Ashwood Dr., to serve a search warrant. While at the location, Deputies heard a loud squealing noise approaching the residence and saw a suspect driving a brown Chevy truck east on Glen Ridge Dr. at an unsafe speed; the truck had obvious front-end damage.
The suspect ignored orders from Deputies to stop the vehicle and continued driving at an unsafe speed north on Ashwood Dr. Deputies initiated a traffic stop, and the driver – Eric Serna – was found to be on active CDCR parole. Serna was in possession of suspected methamphetamine, a methamphetamine pipe, several hypodermic needles, and was also under the influence of a controlled substance.
During the investigation, it was discovered that Serna struck a parked vehicle on Rolling Ridge Dr. and fled the scene without notifying the owner. Serna was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under the influence of a drug, and hit and run non-injury.

On Tues., July 21, Chino Hills Detectives arrested three men for burglary after the suspects ransacked a home in the 14800 block of Country Creek Ct.

The suspects first targeted a home in the 3400 block of Royal Ridge Court. An alert witness saw the suspects ring the doorbell repeatedly and then enter the backyard. The witness was able to get a detailed description of the suspects and a license plate of the vehicle, which was a light silver BMW.
About 15 minutes later, another call of suspicious circumstances came out in the south end of the City. As detectives arrived in the neighborhood, they saw the suspect vehicle. Detectives followed the suspect vehicle in an unmarked unit to Orange County, via the 71, 91 and 55 freeways, while waiting for marked units to assist with a traffic stop.
The suspects exited the 55 Freeway South at Chapman Avenue in Orange as CHP officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The suspect vehicle led officers on a pursuit back on the 55 Freeway northbound and exited Katella Avenue. The pursuit continued through the city of Orange, and ended with the suspect losing control and crashing in a residential neighborhood. Orange Police Department and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department also assisted in the apprehension of the suspects. Chino Hills Detectives took the lead on the case and transported the suspects to the Chino Hills Station to further the investigation.
Eddie Nguon, 26, of Long Beach, Michael Mao, 33, of Long Beach, and Polyhana Mao, 33, of Kearns, Utah, were arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center for burglary and attempted burglary.

Detectives recovered thousands of dollars worth of US savings bonds, US currency, jewelry and electronics from the suspect’s vehicle. The victim of the burglary on Country Creek Ct. was able to identify all the stolen property. Detectives also recovered three sets of gloves and burglary tools from the suspect vehicle.
Anyone with additional information on any of these incidents is asked to contact the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000. Those who want to report information anonymously can call WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME.

Did You Know?

Photo Courtesy: Columbia University War Memorial A gun crew from Regimental Headquarters, 23rd Infantry, U.S. Army

Photo Courtesy: Columbia University War Memorial
A gun crew from Regimental Headquarters, 23rd Infantry, U.S. Army

By K.P. Sander

On July 28, 1914, World War I began when the Austro-Hungarians fired the first shots in preparation for the invasion of Serbia after the assassination of heir-to-the-throne Archduke Franz Ferdinand of Austria.  More than nine million combatants were killed during the more than four years of turmoil, which ended on Nov. 11, 1918, making it one of the deadliest conflicts in history.

At the time, it was simply called the World War, or Great War, and it included all the economic powers in the world divided into two alliances.  The Allies consisted of the United Kingdom, France and Russia; and the Central Powers were Germany and Austria-Hungary.  Italy, Japan and the United States joined the Allies, and the Ottoman (Turkish) Empire and Bulgaria sided with the Central Powers.

After the Russian government collapsed in March of 1917, the war headed toward a resolution when the Austro-Hungarian Empire and Germany agreed to an armistice.  By the end of the war, the German, Russian, Austro-Hungarian and Ottoman empires ceased to exist, with the latter two becoming dismantled.  This lead to the maps of Europe and Southwest Asia being redrawn, and some independent nations being restored and even created.

As a consequence, The League of Nations was formed with the goal of preventing further global wars.  Renewed European nationalism and the humiliation of Germany contributed to a rise in fascism, and any further hopes of prevention were dashed with the culmination of World War II.

Counting Coins

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Two of our grandchildren spent a week at our house recently.  They are 9- and 4-years old.  We had a wonderful time with them; they are a delight.

One of the things we did together was count some coins that I had kept in an old peanut butter jar.  I had found many of these coins over the years when I was jogging through the neighborhood where we live.

Some of these coins were in pretty good shape, but others had obviously been run over many times and were hardly recognizable.  Most were pennies, but there were a few nickels, dimes and quarters.

We poured out the jar full of coins on the floor and sorted them into small piles.  Then we counted them in groups of ten.  If we had enough, we put the coins into paper rolls.  There were enough pennies to fill several rolls.  We found enough dimes to make a roll, too.

In addition, we had a few quarters.  It was interesting to see my grandchildren work on their math skills and learn the value of each coin.  Sometimes it doesn’t make a lot of sense.  For example, a dime is smaller than a penny, but it is worth ten times as much!

After we counted all the coins and wrapped them in the paper rolls, we took our money to the bank.  The nice bank teller counted out the rolls and the other miscellaneous coins and gave us 15 one dollar bills!  Wow!

My grandchildren were amazed to see that all of those coins in the peanut butter jar totaled $15.  I don’t know if they had ever had that much money before.  Each of the grandkids got seven one dollar bills and they gave the extra dollar to their favorite uncle who contributed a few coins of his own.

Money can be a useful tool in the world of commerce, but it can also be a source of temptation in our daily lives.  The Bible warns about the danger of loving money in 1 Timothy 6:10. That verse says, “The love of money is the root of all sorts of evil.  Some people who are eager for money have wandered away from the faith and have harmed themselves with many griefs.”

When people “love money” they can destroy their own lives and damage relationships with others.  Many people struggle with gambling.  They hope to “make a fast buck,” but often find themselves in debt and in desperate straits.

Other people struggle with excessive use of credit cards and find themselves with balances that they cannot pay, burdened with high interest rates.  It becomes a vicious cycle that is difficult to break out of.

I enjoyed counting coins with my grandchildren.  I think they enjoyed it, too.  They were impressed that a jar full of coins could be turned into 15 one dollar bills.  There are other lessons that they need to learn in the world of high finance – lessons that all of us need to learn as well.

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.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 07.25.15

2015-July25-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-July25-Weekly-WEB

How Do You Handle Life’s Detours?

Wise decisions can start with noticing silver linings

 

By Steve Gilliland

The loss of a job; a bad break-up; a nasty accident; a new, obsessive habit; a big move to a new town; health problems experienced by you or a loved one – these are some of the many things that can turn your life upside down. These are some of life’s detours that you don’t expect.

Could there be a good way to respond to such turns in life? Is it honest to “look on the bright side?” Isn’t the root feeling hurt?

I don’t think most people could ask you to deny your feelings, but you don’t have to be led by the nose by feelings which have a primary characteristic of being temporary.

Life is change – it’s axiomatic. Most of us accept this on an intellectual, abstract basis. But when it comes to experiencing change, we often resist it. Fear of change causes immense, yet unnecessary, suffering. Personal growth and maturity are based largely on how you respond to life’s unexpected detours.

  • Ask yourself about opportunity. We don’t like most of life’s detours because they force us out of our comfort zone. New duties at work or a request from a spouse may not only pique our defenses, but also make us wonder, “Can I do this?” Fear and anxiety may push us to focus on our weaknesses and convince us of what we cannot do. When we make a simple shift in mentality, however, we can empower the beginning of personal growth by seeing unprecedented challenges as opportunities.
  • Are you willing to change? If not, then you can’t see opportunity. Change is inevitable, growth is optional. If your wife asks you for a more patient attitude, for example, will you grow with an open heart or dig your heels in. She may not divorce you if you remain stubborn, but your relationship will likely flounder. Seeing a challenge as an opportunity enables self-improvement. And, when it’s time to ask something of your wife, you will have currency with which to work. The same principle applies to work. If you’re asked to take on a new responsibility and respond well, you will gain leverage in your career.
  • Can you envision something better? In the process of internally negotiating change, a positive vision can help you tilt the scales of change as something positive. The vision can be specific. If you don’t know how to use software at work that you need to use, imagine how much better your time will be spent once you learn. What will it take to get there? Practice. It may not be effortless, but you’ll have mapped out a solution. The vision can be broad, too. Is it possible to be more patient, in general, toward life’s detours? Indeed. Simply having more patience toward loved ones, for example, will improve your relationships tremendously.

Steve Gilliland is a member of the National Speaker Association’s Speaker Hall of Fame, and is one of the most in-demand and top-rated speakers in the world.  For more information, visit www.stevegilliland.com.