Category Archives: The Weekly News

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Photo Courtesy: Healthyfoodhouse.com

Photo Courtesy: Healthyfoodhouse.com

By K.P. Sander

Summer Shape Up Series #2:  Let’s say that you take care of yourself.  You do all the necessary things to eat right every day, exercise regularly, and work hard to have a great balance of work/play/family/personal time.  Life is good, and you’re feeling healthy.

But despite all your efforts, things are not so healthy.  Dangers lurk all about your home in every day products that seem so innocent.

Just as important as what you put in your body, is what you put on your body and what you are exposed to.  According to realfarmacy.com, the Cancer Prevention Coalition (CPC) has put together the top 12 most common products manufactured by “big business” that need to be avoided and kept out of your homes and away from your body.

  • Johnson & Johnson Baby (Talcum) Powder: Talc is a carcinogenic and a risk factor for ovarian cancer, not to mention a lung irritant.
  • Procter & Gamble Cover Girl Replenishing Natural Finish Foundation: Not so “natural,” this make-up contains parabens, untested fragrances, lanolin, talc, and BHA – just to mention a few – all known to cause or be associated with cancer and dermatitis.
  • Procter & Gamble Crest Tartar Control Toothpaste: Would you switch to a natural toothpaste if you knew you were brushing twice a day with carcinogenics FD&C #1 and Saccharin?  Time to switch.
  • Alberto VO5 Conditioner (Essence of Neutral Henna): Essence of cancer, with formaldehyde, polysorbate 80, FD&C Red #4 and other undisclosed ingredients hidden in fragrance.
  • Clairol Nice ‘n Easy (Permanent Hair Color): There is nothing nice and easy about carcinogenics, neurotoxins, and dermatitis, but you can find these things hidden in quaternium-15, diethanolamine and phenylene-diamines. The article also notes a “causal relation to non-Hodgkin’s lymphoma, multiple myeloma and other cancers.
  • Colgate-Palmolive Ajax Cleanser and Reckitt & Colman Zud Heavy Duty Cleanser: Both contain the unlabeled toxic ingredient of crystalline silica, a carcinogenic and eye, skin and lung irritant.
  • Reckitt & Colman Lysol Disinfectant Spray: Although the carcinogenicity is denied in their Material Safety and Data Sheet, the carcinogenic and irritant, orthophenylphenol is an ingredient.
  • Sandoz Agro Zodiac Cat & Dog Flea Collar: With carcinogenic and neurotoxin, propoxur, around your pet’s neck, the fleas aren’t the only ones in jeopardy.
  • Monsanto Ortho Weed-B-Gon Lawn Weed Killer: “Weed Killer” labels don’t leave much to the imagination – something is going to die.  Just make sure you wear gloves and masks when using these types of products so you aren’t exposed to carcinogens and neurotoxins.
  • Oscar Mayer Beef Frankfurters: Don’t you just love throwing some benzene hexachloride, dacthal, dieldrin, DDT, lindane, nitrates, hormones and antibiotics on your summertime grill? In the case of a hot dog, if it isn’t chemical and nitrate-free, and made up of pure, normal parts – don’t go there.
  • Borden or Lucerne Whole Milk: Milk does not do a body good in this particular case, with DDT, growth hormones, antibiotics and other carcinogenics mixed in.  Find another option to dunk your cookies in.
  • Most Brand-Name Laundry Detergents: Clemson University conducted a study which found that 2% of a fabric’s weight comes from laundry detergent. The skin absorbs 75% of any fat soluble substance it comes into contact with within 26 seconds, and laundry detergents include anionic surfactants, petroleum distillates, phenols (and more) that are toxic, carcinogenic and can cause organ damage.

The realfarmacy.com article states that current product labeling provides no warnings for cancer and other chronic health risks.  Food is labeled for cholesterol, but not for carcinogens.  Frankly, high cholesterol is the least of your worries in these instances.

In the “Top 10 Most Unhealthy, Cancer Causing Foods,” American political activist, Ralph Nader, says, “What is particularly galling about the ‘Dirty Dozen,’ is that these toxic chemicals don’t have to be there.  Yet these corporations continue to expose people to health hazards unnecessarily.”

Do yourself and your family a favor, and read labels, educate yourself on chemical that you use on a regular basis, and begin to eliminate them all from your house and your life.

Conversations At Costco

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

My mother-in-law lives in Scottsdale, Arizona.  We enjoy visiting her as often as we can.  The drive from California to Arizona takes about five hours each way.

My wife and her mother often go out to lunch when we are in town.  My wife has several sisters who live in the Phoenix area, so they usually join in these lunch time adventures.

One of my jobs is to go to Costco to refill our car with gas and to pick up a few groceries, too.  So, I usually have lunch at Costco by myself while my wife and her sisters have lunch with their mother.

The Costco in Scottsdale has an indoor eating area.  I’ve noticed that a lot of the people eating at Costco are retired people.  Many have come from different parts of the country to spend the winter in sunny Arizona.  Some of them have settled in Scottsdale permanently.

Almost every time I sit down to eat at Costco, I find myself in conversations with total strangers.  I suppose I am the one who usually starts the conversation, but most folks are very friendly and are willing to share about themselves.

Each conversation is delightful.  I have met nice people from Maine to Minnesota.   There are people from Seattle to St. Louis.  They always talk about how wonderful the weather is in Arizona.  They are friendly folk.

Some are just seasonal visitors, but many have bought a home and settled down in the desert.  Some are new transplants, but others have lived there for many years.

When I tell them that I grew up there many years ago, they act like they are speaking to a celebrity.  They can’t believe that my parents came to Arizona with me and my brother in the 1950s.  Some joke that we probably came in a covered wagon!

Scottsdale certainly has changed since the days when my parents moved there 60 years ago.  There are a lot more houses and a lot more people.  It seems like most of the people today shop at Costco.  And, a lot of those people take time to eat lunch and talk with folks they have never met before.

Let me encourage you to watch for an opportunity to begin a conversation with someone at your local Costco or coffee shop; maybe an older couple or individual sitting by themselves.  You will enjoy it, and they will too!

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 06.13.15

2015-June13-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-June13-Weekly-WEB

Six Secrets to Helping Kids Thrive

Lessons Learned from a Former Child Star

Photo Courtesy: S. J. Miller Communications Jimmy Osmond

Photo Courtesy: S. J. Miller Communications
Jimmy Osmond

By Jimmy Osmond, Ph.D.

My parents, George and Olive Osmond, didn’t raise nine perfect children. But they did nurture nine youngsters – Virl, Tom, Alan, Wayne, Merrill, Jay, Donny, Marie, and (last but not least!) me, Jimmy – who have honored our parents’ lessons throughout the highs and lows of our lives.

Now, as we Osmond siblings raise children (and even grandchildren) of our own, we appreciate more than ever the things our parents taught us that have helped us to thrive and accomplish so many of our goals as a family. Here are just six of those lessons:

  1. It all starts at home. As children, we were given opportunities that a lot of our friends didn’t have. Yes, we knew how lucky we were, because our parents emphasized that, too. We traveled to various places in the U.S., and we even got to travel around the world as we worked. Performing took a lot of our time and energy, but George and Olive always kept us centered. Home, according to our parents, was wherever the family happened to be. It didn’t have to mean Provo, Utah (although that was our home base). It could mean Los Angeles, New York, London, or even Tokyo. But the definition of home, for us, was that it was the place the family congregated after the workday was through to share our feelings, hopes, fears, and joys. It was the family who gathered there with us. It was the place where – regardless of how we spent our day – we felt safe, loved, and fully accepted just for being who we were. That’s what home meant to the Osmond family then, and that’s what home means to us all these years later, too.
  2. Shine! Our parents wanted all of their kids to shine, and that didn’t mean they insisted that we be stars. They just wanted us to be the best that we could be at whatever made us the happiest. If we found our true joy fixing cars (and, yes, Wayne did), then that was perfect. If football quarterbacking – presuming the footballs were all properly inflated! – was our thing (as it was for Jay), then we should be out on the football field. If you wanted to exercise your musical gifts, and be part of the family band, then that was cool, too. Our parents wanted their kids to be self-actualized, fulfilled human beings who were filled with love and light – and they wanted us to share that love and light with everyone around us. We hope we’re doing that, and teaching the next generations to do the same.
  3. Communicate. Every family has its dreams and its challenges, and the Osmond’s were no different. But, while some families go off in different directions because they’re not sure how to pull together, our parents taught their kids to communicate. We didn’t always use words or music to do that — sometimes, we signed to each other or read each other’s lips – and it wasn’t always easy to tell each other how we were really feeling. But we worked at it, and however tough it sometimes was for us, we made communication a priority. That has kept us together, as a family, all of our lives.
  4. Love and respect each other. The Osmond family was made up of children, and for years, upon years, many of those children were teenagers. And they were brothers; and a sister. So when our parents told their kids to love each other, they weren’t insisting that their children agree about all things, all of the time. They were, however, setting an example of unconditionally accepting each other, despite whatever differences arose, and putting each other’s needs and welfare above anything else. Most of all, they taught us to respect each other. My parents gave their children nothing except unconditional love and respect, and their kids learned to give that to each other so as the years went on, they had those gifts to give to their own children, too.
  5. Give back. My parents’ philosophy was that whatever you were lucky enough to have, you shared with others. You didn’t have to have recording contracts or a television series to give something of value to others. Long before people were humming those songs about Puppy Love or Paper Roses, the Osmond kids were giving their time to their community – whether it was singing at a children’s hospital or collecting donations for those who were hungry. These days, philanthropy is still one of the activities that consume much of the Osmond children’s time and energy, and it will always be the work that’s closest to all of their hearts.
  6. Focus on education. My mother came from a long line of educators. She would have loved to see all of her kids get traditional college degrees, but our professions have led us in different directions. Academic skills are so important, and it’s a privilege to be able to spend at least twelve years in a classroom. But my father taught us that education doesn’t end there. It also includes gaining people skills, and learning about teamwork and hard work. Sometimes, the best education you can give your child is to encourage them to befriend the new student at school or the new kids in the neighborhood, or to apply for an entry-level job where they’ll get their hands dirty. That’s what I did, and look where it led: to a successful career, and even to getting an honorary Ph.D.!

Although my parents are here only in spirit now, that spirit is strong enough to guide their “children” through their lives. We’ve had ups and downs in our lives, and we’ve learned from our successes as well as our false starts and – let’s face it – our failures, too. But those lessons that our parents shared started us on the road to lifelong independence and happiness – and the ability for everyone to learn those lessons are the main gifts that George and Olive Osmond shared with the world.

Jimmy Osmond, Ph.D., is the author of “Awesome Possum Family Band” (RegneryKids).  For more information, visit http://www.jimmyosmond.com.

Chino Man Missing

Homicide Detectives seek public’s help in locating Raymond Collins; reward offered

Photo Courtesy: LASD

Photo Courtesy: LASD

Staff Reports

Chino/Compton – On Sun., Feb. 15, at approximately 4 p.m., Raymond Tremaine Collins was last seen by his family leaving his residence in the city of Chino.  Collins, a music video producer, was on his way to the Compton area to meet a friend to discuss filming a music video the following day.

On Mon., Feb. 16, at approximately 2 a.m., Collins was seen leaving the area of Alondra Blvd. and Dwight Avenue in his dark grey Toyota Camry.  One hour later, at approximately 3 a.m., witnesses observed a black male exit Collins’ vehicle and walk east on Raymond St. and out of view.

Neither family nor friends have seen or heard from Collins since that time, and there has been no activity on his social media accounts.

Collins is a 29-year old African American male, who also goes by the name of “Ray Rich.”  He is 5 feet, 11 inches tall, weighs 160 pounds, and has brown eyes, and brown hair with a mustache and goatee.  He has a “Blessed” tattoo on the left side of his neck; “Ray” tattooed on his right knuckles and “Rich on his left knuckles.  He also has “Annie” tattooed on his left forearm.

If you have any information regarding this case, please contact the Sheriff’s Information Bureau at (323) 267-4800. If you wish to remain Anonymous, call “LA Crime Stoppers” by dialing 800-222-TIPS (8477), texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org

Diamond Bar Council Recap

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza The Diamond Bar City Council congratulates members of the Diamond Bar High School Badminton Team for winning its fourth consecutive championship.

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza
The Diamond Bar City Council congratulates members of the Diamond Bar High School Badminton Team for winning its fourth consecutive championship.

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar City Council met on Tues., June 2, with a regular agenda of presentations, a reading of future events, numerous action items and a public hearing concerning a new wireless telecommunications facility.

The meeting was started off with a presentation to the members of the Diamond Bar High School badminton team for winning their fourth consecutive championship.  Mayor Steve Tye congratulated the 14 team members in attendance for their hard work and continuing the proud lineage of the school’s team.  Tye offered his congratulations to not only the members but also Head Coach Kemp Wells, who promised to bring a fifth championship next year.

“What could be harder than winning once?” asked Tye. “Winning twice. What could be harder than winning twice? Winning four times. You have a winning program, congratulations.”

The second presentation was to David Matsukiyo and Matthew Chen for being “Report for Reward” recipients, meaning that their information led to making Diamond Bar safer from crime.

Tye and the Council then presented a City tile to Kaiser Permanente’s Diamond Bar offices and proclaimed the hospital as “Business of the Month” for June 2015. Tye thanked them for their years of service to the City and wished them well in their continued business.

“We are grateful that Kaiser Permanente has chosen Diamond Bar and we look forward to your future expansions,” Tye said.

The schedule of future events was then read off to include a pop-up City Hall on June 4 at the Diamond Hills Plaza, at 2825 S. Diamond Bar Boulevard, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.; the Planning Commission meeting on June 9; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on June 11; and the next City Council meeting on June 16.

The Council then approved all items on its Consent Calendar, including the minutes for the study session and regular meeting of the May 19 City Council meetings; the April 9 Traffic and Transportation Commission; the April 14 Planning Commission; the ratification of check register dated May 14 through May 27 totaling $1,494,739.50; the Treasurer’ April statement; the approval of the first amendment to the consultant services agreement with ECS Imaging, Inc., extending the contract term through June 20, 2016 in the approved not-to-exceed amount of $87,000; the approval of the first amendment to the consultant services agreement with Sytech Solutions, Inc., extending the contract term through June 30, 2016 at a cost of $40,000 for a total not-to-exceed amount of $140,000; the approval of Amendment No. 4 to the contract with Valleycrest Landscape Maintenance to extend the term of the contract from July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2016 to provide landscape maintenance services at nine city parks, the grounds of the Diamond Bar Center, the football field and slope at Lorbeer Middle School and the Mesa Trail/Trailhead at Sycamore Canyon Park in the amount of $368,995 each fiscal year and as-needed work in the amount of $25,000; an approval of adjourning the June 16 City Council meeting to July 21; a resolution calling for the holding of a general municipal election to be held on Tues., Nov. 3, for the election of certain officers as required by the provisions of the laws of the State of California relating to general law cities; a resolution requesting the Board of Supervisors of the county of Los Angeles to consolidate a general municipal election to be held on Nov. 2, with the school elections to be held on the date pursuant to Section 10403 of the Elections Code; a resolution adopting regulation for candidates for elective office pertaining to candidates statements submitted to the voters at an election to be held on Nov. 2; the approval of supplemental appropriations of $559,591 into the fiscal year 2014-15 building fees revenue accounts, and $233,547 into the fiscal year 2014-15 building and safety contract services expenditure account to fund the payment of RKA Consulting Services invoices; approval of professional services agreement with David Evans and Associates, Inc., to provide landscape plan checking services for three fiscal years (2015-16 through 2017-18) with an option for two one-year extensions; authorization for the City Manager to enter into a three-year agreement with the Los Angeles Gateway Region Integrated Regional Water Management Joint Powers Authority to share the costs for installation of monitoring equipment and monitoring pursuant to the Harbor Toxic Pollutants total maximum daily loads for a total amount not to exceed $30,000 for the term of agreement; and a resolution adopting the statement of investment requested by the finance department.

After the Consent Calendar, the Council approved two consideration items, including an appointment to the Wildlife Corridor Conservation Authority Advisory Committee, and the approval and adjustment of City Council appointments.

The Council then moved onto its only public hearing item, denying the appeal and affirming the Planning Commission’s decision to deny a conditional use permit for a request to allow the installation of a new wireless telecommunications facility consisting of 12 panel antennas, three remote radio units and a 24-inch diameter microwave dish antenna on the 65-foot high artificial tree and associated above-ground equipment cabinets (from T-Mobile) within a 220 square foot enclosure at Maple Hill Park.

The reason for the denial, as stated by the Planning Commission, was that the antenna would obstruct the park’s views and take up too much space – and that a large number of residents agree with the decision.

Several representatives from T-Mobile spoke during the meeting, asking the Council to appeal the Planning Commission’s decision and allow the construction of the structure and antenna. The representatives claimed that without the new antenna, the City’s T-Mobile customers would have a significant lack of coverage. Furthermore, the representatives stated that the structure and antenna would not have any adverse effect on Maple Hill Park or the City’s residents.

Throughout the speeches, the council members disagreed with the T-Mobile representatives, stating that the addition of this extra antenna and structure should not be considered a “necessity” to the City and that mobile phone users are not facing coverage burdens as of yet.

Some 20 residents also spoke during the public hearing, listing dozens of reasons why the antenna and structure should be denied.

After the speeches were over, the City Council members voted to deny the conditional use permit, blocking the construction of the new structure and antenna.

Following the public hearing item, the Council adjourned with plans to meet on June 16, at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.

SAPD Arrests Suspect In Bank Robbery

Photo Courtesy: SAPD Suspect Justin Thomas Yrrarazaval

Photo Courtesy: SAPD
Suspect Justin Thomas Yrrarazaval

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – On Thurs., May 28, at 4:41 p.m., Officers were dispatched to a bank robbery that had just occurred.  The investigation revealed that a Hispanic male suspect – armed with a black handgun – entered the Schools First Bank located at 2115 N. Broadway, demanding money and stating that he had a bomb.  The bank teller complied with the suspect’s demands and an undisclosed amount of U.S. Currency was taken.

The suspect – who was described as a male adult in his 20s, with a dark complexion, brown eyes, scar on his left cheek, wearing a trucker hat, plaid shirt and carrying a backpack – was last seen walking eastbound toward Main Street.

On Fri., May 29, at approximately 9 a.m., a Santa Ana Police Department Officer observed suspect, Justin Thomas Yrrarazaval, 20, of Santa Ana, walking in the 1300 block of North Spurgeon Street. The Officer believed Yrrarazaval was the same suspect he observed on surveillance video during the bank robbery the previous day.

Robbery Detectives responded to the Officer’s location and transported the suspect to the Police Department where he was questioned about his involvement in the Bank Robbery.  Yrrarazaval was then booked into the Santa Ana Police Jail on the charge of Bank Robbery.

The World Of Paul

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

My wife taught 6th Grade at Chaparral Middle School for many years.  Her subjects included language arts and social studies.  In California, 6th Grade social studies covered ancient civilizations like China, India, Egypt, Israel, Greece and Rome.

Over the years, my wife and I have been able to travel to each of these countries.  Sometimes we went on guided tours.  Sometimes we went with short-term teams from our church.  Every country and every culture has been very interesting.

Next year, we will be leading a tour to experience some of the world that the Apostle Paul lived in and traveled.  We will be going to cities like Rome, Corinth, Athens and Ephesus.  We will see historical sites where Paul spoke before city leaders and where he was held in prison because he was a follower of Christ.

In the past, my wife and I have led groups to Israel where we saw many places that are mentioned in the Bible.  It was fascinating to see the Sea of Galilee, the Dead Sea and the beautiful city of Jerusalem.

This time we will be traveling on a modern cruise ship on the Mediterranean Sea with stops in Italy, Greece and Turkey.  We will have local guides in each city we visit.

If you would be interested in traveling with us on this 16-day tour,  please contact our church office for more information.  The dates of the trip are April 21 to May 6, 2016.  We have a brochure available with all the details.

We are thankful that we have been able to travel to so many different places around the world.  We are looking forward to our next adventure in 2016.

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.

San Dimas Shooting Death

Quiznos’ store owner killed in robbery

Staff Reports

San Dimas – On Tues., June 2, L.A. County Homicide Detectives responded to the 1000 block of W. Arrow Highway to investigate a shooting incident.

Deputies arrived at the Quiznos restaurant regarding an assault with a deadly weapon call, and found a male adult suffering from a single gunshot wound to the torso area.

According to the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department, an unknown male suspect entered the business about 3:20 p.m. He approached the cashier’s counter, brandished a semi-automatic handgun and demanded money from the Quiznos’ business owner. The owner – and victim – complied and give the suspect money from the cash register.

The victim followed and confronted the suspect outside of the business. The two were involved in a brief struggle, and the suspect shot the victim one time in the torso area and fled the scene on foot in a southwest direction.

The suspect was described as a male in his 20s, white or Hispanic, approximately six feet tall, 160 pounds, with brown hair. His clothing was described as a black cap, black shirt, and dark short pants with a plaid pattern.

The victim, Pravin Patel, 62, of San Dimas, was transported in critical condition to a hospital via helicopter – where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.  If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

Former Moreno Valley Councilman Sentenced

Five years in federal prison for taking $2.3 million cash bribe

 

Staff Reports

Riverside – In a case stemming from what is believed to be the largest bribe ever accepted by a public official in an undercover operation, a former member of the Moreno Valley City Council was sentenced on Mon., June 1, to 60 months in federal prison for taking a $2.36 million cash bribe from an undercover operative posing as a real estate broker.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Marcelo Co, 64, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge, Jesus G. Bernal. Co pleaded guilty last year to one bribery count and one count of filing a false corporate tax return.

The case against Co was the result of an investigation by the Inland Regional Corruption Task Force, which is comprised of prosecutors, agents and investigators from the Federal Bureau of Investigation, IRS Criminal Investigation, Riverside County District Attorney’s Office and the United States Attorney’s Office.

Co was elected to the Moreno Valley City Council in November 2010 and resigned from his seat in August 2013 after being charged in state court in an unrelated case. Court documents filed in the federal case outline a bribery scheme in which Co told a businessman – and an undercover FBI operative posing as a real estate broker – that he would control a voting majority of the Moreno Valley City Council and would be able to guarantee land use decisions that would benefit the businessman and the land broker.  Co also promised to always vote in favor of land use decisions that would benefit the real estate broker.

Co solicited campaign donations from the FBI undercover operative and the businessman, who was cooperating with the investigation. Co eventually received payments of $5,000 and $10,000 that he said were to be used to finance the campaigns of individuals who would vote with him on land use issues.

In the fall of 2012, Co met with the undercover operative to discuss a multimillion dollar sale of a 30-acre parcel that he owned. Co told the real estate broker that once he had control of the City Council, he could change the zoning of the property and the land value would dramatically increase. With the City Council election in November 2012, Co told the undercover investigator that he had the votes to alter the zoning and increase the value of his 30-acre parcel, which had been appraised at $710,000. Co proposed that the undercover operative purchase the property for $5.36 million, which would include a cash payment of $2.36 million.

At a meeting on Jan. 30, 2013, Co agreed to sell the property for $5.36 million, but that the publicly filed documents would reflect a sale price of only $3 million. At this meeting, Co accepted $2.36 million in cash.

The tax charge concerns a federal Corporation Income Tax Return (Form 1120) that Co filed for his company, Qwik Pack Systems, for tax year 2010. In that filing with the IRS, Co failed to report well over $100,000 in income. This tax charge is not related to the bribery scheme.

Co must surrender himself to authorities on October 30 to begin serving his sentence.

Straight Talk With Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

 

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

My adult daughter has recently made a mistake that causes me shame.  She needs my help, but I am so hurt that I don’t know if I can be there for her.  My husband has turned his back on her.  He is tired of her chaotic lifestyle.  I feel so alone.  My daughter is too embarrassed to ask her siblings for help, because this is not the first time she’s been in trouble and needed us to bail her out.  I wish she had decent friends and didn’t always depend on me.  When is a mother’s job done?

-Francis

Hi, Francis:

Mother’s have many ways in which they interact with their children to enhance their lives.  If you are a mother who constantly bails out wayward adult children, then you are an enabler. That’s a big problem, in my opinion.  I feel for you if your spouse deserts you when the going gets tough.  This probably contributes to your enabling ways, but you still need to correct this.  As for your shame, if you need time to deal with your feelings of shame over the poor behavior of your daughter, then take it.  You are not obligated to push your feelings aside just because your daughter finds herself in hot water once again.  Maybe it’s time for you to allow your daughter to deal with the consequences of her poor behavior.  I know it’s hard, but it may be a better option since she’s a repeat offender.  Perhaps you could improve your marriage if you discontinue being in charge of keeping your daughter’s life together.  You would be wise to work on the issue of “shame,” as well.  Let me know if you need help.

Sincerely,

Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

 

Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

Walnut Valley Recognizes 2015 Retirees

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD The WVUSD Class of 2015 retirees was honored during a reception on May 20.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
The WVUSD Class of 2015 retirees was honored during a reception on May 20.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District celebrated retiring staff members during a reception held May 20.  A total of 40 employees were lauded for providing a total of 922 years of outstanding service to students.  Each retiree received personal tributes, a retirement watch, and certificates of special recognition.

“When I look at the wealth of experience in this room, I feel so appreciative,” said Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources, Dr. Michelle Harold. “Thank you for the many years of kind and caring service that you have given to our children!”

Congratulations to the following retiring staff members:

Howard Alcosser – Teacher, Diamond Bar High

Alfonso Alvarado – Bus Driver, Transportation

Jose Annicchiarico – Administrative Director, Educational Services

Daniel Barnhart – Custodian, South Pointe

Susan Benner – Teacher, Diamond Bar High

Christine Buccola – Teacher, Diamond Bar High

Carol Burnett – Supervisor, Child Care

Lydia Colyn – Instructional Aide, Walnut High

Susan Conrad-Kanstul – Teacher, Maple Hill

Maura Cordon – Noon Aide, Maple Hill

Kim Deweese – Teacher, Castle Rock

Irmgard Diskin – Instructional Aide, Walnut High

William Diskin – Assistant Principal, Walnut High

Lowell ‘Allin’ Everman – Teacher, South Pointe

Barbara Frank – SSRA, South Pointe

Susan Garcia – Secretary, Educational Services

Dawn Geery – Teacher, Walnut High

Mark Gifford – Teacher, Suzanne

Janet Green – Principal, Walnut Elementary

David Hamel – Teacher, Diamond Bar High

Alan Haskvitz – Teacher, Suzanne

Melanie Hildreth – Teacher, Walnut High

Kathy Johnson – Teacher, South Pointe

Joanne Karr – Teacher, Walnut High

John Keith – Teacher, Walnut High

Alice Lewis – Food Service Worker – Food Services

Suellen Magas – Library Media Technician, Walnut High

Pilar Munoz – Secretary, Educational Services

Cindy Nelson – Teacher, Collegewood

Michael Nelson – Teacher, Walnut High

Lazaro Pinedo – Custodian, Collegewood

Beverly Pollard – Teacher, Diamond Bar High

Uma Puri – Child Care Attendant – Child Care

Maria Quiroz – Food Service Worker, Food Services

Maureen Renninger – Teacher, Walnut High

Irene Romo – Food Service Worker, Food Services

Regina Ryan – Speech Pathologist, Special Education

Becky Sullenberger – Teacher, Collegewood

Cynthia Vaughon – Instructional Aide – Collegewood

Victoria Workman – Teacher, Walnut High

Chino Is “Safe And Sound”

Photo By: Sarah Sanchez The Presentation of Colors was carried out by the Joint Honor Guard of the Chino Valley Fire District and Chino Police Department.

Photo By: Sarah Sanchez
The Presentation of Colors was carried out by the Joint Honor Guard of the Chino Valley Fire District and Chino Police Department.

By Sarah Sanchez

Chino – The Chino Annual Mayor’s State of the City Address was held on the beautiful, sunny afternoon of May 29, at the Chaffey Chino Community Center. The address and luncheon were presented by the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the City of Chino.

The event began with a welcome by Karon Mulligan, Immediate Past Chairman of the Board for the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce. The Joint Honor Guard of the Chino Valley Fire District and Chino Police Department offered up the Presentation of Colors, followed by Mayor Dennis Yates leading the Pledge of Allegiance. Chrisol Lomeli sang the National Anthem beautifully, and then Chaplain Rob Departee of the Chino Valley Fire District, gave the invocation.

Lunch was provided by local Chino business – The Avocado House – where everyone was able to talk and mingle with others in the community. Luncheon sponsors included: Waste Management, Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce, Chino Valley Medical Center, Lewis Group of Companies, and the City of Chino. Distinguished table sponsors included: Majestic Realty Co., Frontier Communities, Citizens Business Bank, Southern California Edison, Chino Valley Fire District, Athens Services, Watson Land Company, Southern California Gas Company, Sempra Energy, and the Chino Police Department.

After lunch, Mayor Yates welcomed everyone to the event and introduced all that were in attendance, including members of the Chino City Council, Chino Valley Fire District, Chino Valley Unified School Board, Chino Planning Commission – and Chino Police Chief, Karen Comstock. He explained that the City of Chino is a growing city with a small town feel.

“It’s a city that’s applauded and appreciated,” said Yates.

Yates introduced this year’s State of the City Address theme as, “Chino Safe and Sound.” He explained that the City of Chino is a safe community with Public Safety and First Responders that put their best foot forward, as they regularly give presentations to seniors, schools, local organizations, and community members at no cost. He also said that the City of Chino is financially sound, as their revenue for 2014 exceeded $8.5 million.

After his introduction, he announced well deserved awards to selected groups. The Planning Commission Awards included Best New Residential Development, Edgewood at College Park; Reva Salter “Ma Chino” Architectural Award, Ivy at College Park; Special Recognition Award, Chino Hills Ford Remodel; Best New Industrial Development, Watson Commerce Center; and Best New Commercial Development, Ramona Marketplace. The Mayor’s Home Beautification Award went to Ms. Bernadette Heldon.

Next, a Video Presentation created by Digital Media Services was played to show what makes Chino safe and sound.

“It is because of so many that Chino is safe and sound,” said Yates in the video. “Public Safety, First Respondents, residents, volunteers, and community members are all who make Chino safe and sound.” Chino Police Chief Karen Comstock said that the Police Department and Fire Department also have a fantastic relationship with each other and with the community.

“Having a Police Department who interacts with the city is important to having a safe city,” said Councilman Glenn Duncan in the video, as clips of law enforcement at schools were shown on the screen. The Police Department’s goal is to build relationships with the local children and to show that they are not the bad guys. According to the video, they want to let the public, community and children know they are here to help. “We don’t hire people in to a job; we hire people into a family.”

The Police and Fire Departments facilities were also shown in the video, as $38 million was invested in both departments. There are three fire stations, a state of the art training center, and Police Officers now wear body cameras to help analyze and assess crimes.

After the State of the City Video Presentation, Yates announced the 2014 Spirit of Achievement Honoree, Linda Takeuchi, who has dedicated her time to the City of Chino since the 1970s. She has volunteered in local Commissions, Service Programs, and Girl Scouts, to name just a few. A video was played on her behalf.

The State of the City ended with Yates thanking everyone who helped put the State of the City Address together. But the event wasn’t over until he announced the free gift card that one lucky member of each table received. The gift cards were donated from local businesses in the community, and the Mayor encouraged everyone to continue to support local businesses in order to keep Chino financially sound.

Overall, the State of the City concluded that Chino is a great place to live, shop, work, learn, and to feel – “Safe and Sound.”

Summer Getaway At Comfort Suites

Photo Courtesy: Comfort Suites Comfort Suites in La Puente.

Photo Courtesy: Comfort Suites
Comfort Suites in La Puente.

Staff Reports

La Puente – With summer upon us, our thoughts turn to warm weather fun and wondering what to do with the kids until school starts again.  Why not take a local mini vacation with all the amenities of an expensive getaway?

At Comfort Suites in La Puente, you can imagine you are enjoying the tropical breezes that only a plane ride can provide, and stay in a local hotel where every room is a beautiful suite and delicious, hot breakfasts are included with your visit.  There is plenty of fun for the entire family with nearby Raging Waters to help beat the heat, and Irwindale Speedway, Industry Hills Expo Center, the beautiful Huntington Library, and so much more.

With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, Comfort Suites can make you feel as comfortable as if you were at home. Certified with a three-diamond rating from AAA, the Comfort Suites’ staff ensures that guests are always satisfied with their stay (AAA is one of the most widely respected information sources for travelers throughout the United States and recommends hotels on a 1 to 4 scale).

Comfort Suites offers a wide variety of amenities including free Wi-Fi, cable/satellite on a flat screen plasma TV, a fitness center, 100% smoke-free hotel, free parking, and a business center for those that need to stay in touch.

Maria Mendoza, General Manager of Comfort Suites, personally invites you to come enjoy your stay at their hotel and take advantage of the unique opportunity to experience the area’s rich history, culture and urban energy.

Located at 753 Glendora Avenue in La Puente, Comfort Suites can be reached at (626) 330-0030, or visit their website at www.industryhillshotel.com for more information and photos of their site.  And be sure to check out their ad on page 5 of this publication.

To The Pointe Dance Productions

Training dancers and transforming lives

Photo Courtesy: TTP

Photo Courtesy: TTP

By K.P. Sander 

Chino – It isn’t often you come across a business dedicated to students that provides a Christian atmosphere, and promotes not only artistry, but modesty, authenticity, faith and community as well – but To the Pointe Dance Productions (TTP) is all that, and more.
Founded in 2004 by CEO and Artistic Director, Lindsay Dixon, what started as teaching three students on Saturday mornings as a way to make some extra cash has developed into a faith-based business of integrity – reaching out to the community in a variety of caring ways.

Dixon – whose lifelong love of dance has led her on a wonderful journey – received her formal training in ballet, pointe, jazz, tap, and lyrical at the Talent Dance Studio in Chino.  While studying there, she was a six-year member of the nationally acclaimed Showstopper dance team, and also a competitive lyrical and pointe soloist, receiving numerous regional and national titles. Dixon also holds a B.A. in Philosophy with a Minor in Business Administration from Azusa Pacific University.  She has been providing dance instruction to children and adults of all ages since she was 15.

Now enjoying its 11th year of business, the non-profit TTP has realized the potential for a faith-based dance training program where students can explore movement and performance in a non-threatening and loving environment.  Serving 200 students at over 30 weekly classes, TTP caters to children and adults of every ability.  From their annual spring and Christmas recitals to their vibrant specials needs programs, there is definitely something for every dance student.  They even offer an apprenticeship program with the Inland Empire’s only professional contemporary dance company, Aletheia Contemporary Dance Theatre.

But more than anything says Dixon, “We have a family of teachers, parents and peers to support and encourage development – not only as dancers – but as loving and compassionate human beings.”

The focus on TTP is not on competition, but on providing dancers with the skills and resources to reach maximum potential.  Whether students want to dance professionally or use their gifts to minister to others – or just dance for the love of dance – TTP is there to provide a nurturing environment and show that their ultimate reason for dancing is to draw closer to God.

Dixon, her husband, two-year old son – and baby girl on the way – live in Eastvale.

To find out more about TTP, including Summer Dance Camps, class offerings and schedules, special needs programming, scholarship funds, or to make a donation, visit http://ttpdance.org.

TTP is located at 14058 Euclid Ave., Building A, in Chino.  They can be reached at (909) 628-4242, or email office@ttpdance.org.

Suzanne Teacher Awarded Class Makeover

This summer, Suzanne Middle School math teacher Amy Erickson will receive a 21st century classroom makeover courtesy of OnPoint Innovative Learning Environments. Shown with Kevin Mulligan and Tiffany Chan.

This summer, Suzanne Middle School math teacher Amy Erickson will receive a 21st century classroom makeover courtesy of OnPoint Innovative Learning Environments. Shown with Kevin Mulligan and Tiffany Chan.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Suzanne Middle School math teacher, Amy Erickson, has been selected for a 21st century classroom makeover, valued at $25,000.  She was among hundreds of attendees at the CUE educational technology conference in March. Like most teachers, Erickson visited the vendor showcase in-between sessions.

At one particular display – OnPoint Innovative Learning Environments – Erickson struck up a conversation.

“I sat down at the booth and said ‘show me what you have’,” she explained.  “We talked a lot about math and what I’d like to do in my class. Then, the owner handed me a piece of paper and said write down your dream list.”

She jotted down that she wanted a new LCD projector.

“Mine’s not very good, but we don’t have the money for a new one,” Erickson said.

OnPoint suggested that she think bigger and create a list for an ideal classroom, and to follow up after the conference.  She did.

Erickson soon visited the Ontario office, and OnPoint personnel came out and visited her classroom.

“The first thing they liked is a math teacher whose classroom is not set up in rows.  We like to do group work for Common Core,” Erickson said.

On May 26, OnPoint CEO, Kevin Mulligan, and Director, Tiffany Chan, made the official announcement in Erickson’s class.

“We’ll be modernizing the classroom with new projection systems and technology for your teacher and you to enjoy,” Mulligan said.

The 7th grade Algebra students cheered after hearing the amazing news.

The Walnut Valley class will receive a new projection system, an additional screen on the opposite side of room, a document camera, surround sound, software, as well as in-class support and training. The goal is for the upgrades to be complete when school starts in the fall.

“She was selected by our team,” Mulligan explained. “We loved her personality and her enthusiasm. It became really clear that we wanted to do something for this lady. It all came together with the support of the District.”

“I just thought it would be so great for the kids,” Erickson said. “I’m really glad our school got picked!”

Thoughts On Your Last Day

Nancy Stoops and Midnight

Nancy Stoops and Midnight

By Nancy Stoops

Imagine for just a couple of minutes that this your last day here.  You’re not in any pain and you are just recalling the events of your life.  Are you feeling content about the way you lived, or are you filled with regret?

I’m not trying to be morbid in anyway, I’m just trying to get you to think about how you’re living your life.  Do you seem to spend most of your days worrying about things you have no control over?  Do you find yourself constantly holding grudges when people make you angry?  Do you waste much of your time proving you are right?  Are you living in the past and use it as an excuse for not being able to move forward?

Take a moment and think about what it is that you want your life to represent.  For me, I need to have love, peace and a sense of purpose in my life.  I need to know that I make a difference.  I need not only to love and be loved, but also to be really connected to those I love.  I need to have peace in my mind, heart, and soul – and this comes with keeping things cleaned up in my life.  I don’t like it when I’m off from my loved ones, so I need to clean things up quickly.

I want to be able to look back at my life with no regrets and have a sense of peace knowing I lived life as the person I was intended to be.  I need to believe that I did everything I could to do my best and to be the best person I could here in this world.  Those are the thoughts I want running through me my last day here – and every day until then!

 

Congratulations Class Of 2015!

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD DBHS valedictorians Zhen Hao Chen, Kali De Cambra, Michelle Lyu, and Daniel Shin delivered the commencement address during graduation.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD DBHS valedictorians Zhen Hao Chen, Kali De Cambra, Michelle Lyu, and Daniel Shin delivered the commencement address during graduation.

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – Nearly 1,500 Walnut Valley Unified School District graduating seniors participated in commencement ceremonies on May 28.  Families and friends filled football stadiums carrying bouquets and helium balloons ready to celebrate the milestone accomplishment.

During the 32nd commencement at Diamond Bar High, 724 graduates in purple and gold cap and gowns streamed into Holmes Memorial Stadium.

“It hasn’t really hit me that it’s over,” said Marissa Kummerman before the 7 p.m. ceremony.  “It still seems like I will go back on Monday and hang out with my friends in the drama room and sing karaoke!”

“It’s definitely an exciting day,” added Jordan Lin, 18. “But it’s also a little sad saying goodbye to friends that I’ve known since elementary school.”

“It’s an amazing feeling to be done and to have accomplished my goals,” Antonio “Noodles” Hull shared. “My favorite memory is being around this good group of friends.”

Principal Catherine Real addressed the Class of 2015 during the commencement.

“This class is an accomplished body of students with standouts in the classroom, on the field, on the stage, and at the helm, who have set their own standards in the four As – Academics, Activities, Arts, and Athletics,” said Real. “And never before has a class been so defined by service to others.”

“Wherever life leads us after high school, I pray that we remember the important lessons we learned here, like hard work, perseverance, and dedication,” said class president, Daniel Shin.  “This class is the epitome of the phrase, ‘purple pride; gold standard!’”

Congratulations to DBHS valedictorians: Kyu Seo Ahn, Athena Chen, Zhen Hao Chen, Kali De Cambra, Sophia Deng, Jeannie Huang, Mandy Hung, Rena Jiang, Leanne Kao, Rae Lasko, Ju Sun Lee, Katlyn Lee, Young Lin, Michelle Lyu, Elizabeth Pang, Jin Sung Park, Derek Peng, Christie Sandjaya, Kimi Taira, Lai Tsung Wan, Emily Wong, Jordan Wong, Je-Han Yang, and Vivian Yan.

Each stellar scholar earned a perfect 4.0 G.P.A. all four years.

13 IB diploma candidates were recognized for completing the rigorous academic program:  Congratulations to Simran Bhogal, Zhen Hao Chen, Vanessa Cheng, Matthew Chiu, Rena Jiang, Leanne Kao, Serena Lin, Young Lin, Madison McCarty, Sydney Pun, Samantha Samoyfenko, Mayur Upparapalli, and Andrew Yoo.

The two groups of grads were awarded gold medallions to signify their accomplishment.

“Class of 2015, you do not leave this place alone,” Real added.  “You go forward with a global Brahma family ready to support you and celebrate your successes and we shall always be at your side. Seniors, congratulations and much luck to you always!”

Did You Know?

Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia U.S. Army troops wade ashore on Omaha Beach, on the morning of June 6, 1944

Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia
U.S. Army troops wade ashore on Omaha Beach, on the morning of June 6, 1944

By K. P. Sander

On Sat., June 6, we remembered that it had been 71 years since World War II Allied Forces invaded the beaches of Normandy, in northern France.

In the largest seaborne invasion in history, the attack landed 5,000 assault craft, 289 escort vessels and 277 minesweepers.  According to Wikipedia, nearly 160,000 troops crossed the English Channel on “D-Day,” with 875,000 men ashore by the end of June 1944.

German preparations to secure the beaches all along the Atlantic Wall of France were only partially completed, allowing the Allies to take advantage of large, undefended stretches of coastline.

The planning attack for Normandy was nearly a year in the making, and the weather on the target date was dismal, but postponement would have delayed the attack for weeks. Strong winds blew the water crafts east of their intentions – particularly at Omaha and Utah beaches – and they were met with heavy gunfire where casualties were ultimately the heaviest.

Allied casualties on D-Day were estimated at more than 10,000, with 4,400 confirmed dead.  Although the Germans had ordered all non-essential French civilians to evacuate the coastline combat zones, casualties came to 3,000 by D+1.  Germany ultimately had between 4,000 and 9,000 casualties.

Allied air attack preceded the amphibious landings on D-Day, severely impacting transportation.  This made it very difficult for Germany to bring supplies and reinforcements to the front. While the Allies did not achieve all of their objectives on D-Day, they ultimately gained control toward victory over the next several weeks and months.

The Allied victory in Normandy led to the liberation of France from Nazi control and contributed to the ending of German-occupied Western Europe, and ultimately the end of World War II.  Less than one year after D-Day, Germany surrendered.

 

Operation Overlord Allies of the Normandy Invasion: United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, Belgium, Czechoslovakia, Denmark, Free France, Greece, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway and Poland.

D-Day is military terminology for a particular day in which any combat attack or operation is to be initiated; H-Hour is used for the particular time.  The terms are used in conjunction with numbers for specifics that all units understand, yet secrecy is protected.  For example, D+3 means three days after D-Day; D-1 was the day before D-Day; H-3 means three hours before H-Hour. 

Beauty Is In The Eye of the Beholder

I remember a story I once read: A frog was sitting by a pond one day and a woman walked up and asked: “What’s wrong Mr. Frog, why are you so glum?” The frog went on to explain: “I was once a handsome prince, but an evil witch put a spell on me. Now I’m a frog until a beautiful woman kisses me and breaks the spell.”

The young woman, feeling compelled to help, leaned over and kissed the frog on the head. She waited for a few minutes and then said: “What happened? You’re still a frog.” The frog turned to her and said: “I’m only going to explain this to you one more time….”

The moral of the story is: If you believe you are beautiful, that’s all that counts. You may not have the ability to change frogs into princes, but if you believe you can, that’s all that matters. Although others may not see your beauty, as long as you see it, that is what counts. What matters is that YOU believe in your own beauty.

A physically beautiful woman can sometimes be uglier than any other, and can be morally and ethically ugly inside. But a wholesome woman with great morals and a loving heart will forever change your spirit, because beauty depends on what you’re seeking. And beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder.