The 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-May30-Weekly-WEB
Category Archives: The Weekly News
Diamond Bar Council Recap
Photo By: Raymond Mendoza
City Council members proclaim May 2015 to be Water Awareness Month to encourage limited water use during the drought – shown with (L-R) Walnut Valley Water District President Ted Ebenkamp, Scarlett Kwong, Barbara Carrera, Edward Hilden and Allen Wu.
By Raymond Mendoza
Diamond Bar – Diamond Bar’s City Council met for the final time during the month of May for a regular meeting on the eve of the commencement of the Grand Avenue Beautification project construction.
Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Lyons was absent from the meeting.
To begin, the Council proclaimed May 2015 as “Water Awareness Month,” to better encourage residents to conserve water as California continues to limp through its worst drought in many years.
Walnut Valley Water District President, Ted Ebankamp, and several other WVWD members joined the Council to accept the proclamation, while Ebankamp warned that the whole state must cut 25 percent of its water usage to help in such a dire times. He also mentioned that heavy fines will be enforced for residents and businesses breaking recently enacted and ongoing water conservation statutes.
Mayor Steve Tye handed out the award and noted that having several WVWD members in attendance willing to be vocal about the drought was of great “importance,” and that we must all continue to conserve in all the ways that we can. Ebankamp said as of right now each resident uses an average of 148 gallons of water each day and must be willing to cut that number by 25 percent.
The calendar of future events was then read to include the closure of City offices on Mon., May 25 in observance of Memorial Day; the next Planning Commission meeting on May, 26 at 7 p.m.; the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on May 28 at 7 p.m.; and the next City Council meeting on June 2 at 6:30 p.m.
The Council then approved all items on its Consent Calendar, including the City Council minutes for the May 5 study session and regular meeting; the ratification of check register dated Apr. 30 through May 13 totaling $709,488.87; the appropriation of $199,503 for gas tax funds to the fiscal year 2014-15; and adopt a resolution approving plans and specifications and establishing a project payment account and construction contract award for the Area 3 Residential and Collector Road Maintenance Project to All-American Asphalt, Inc. in the amount of $1,488,000, with authorization of a contingency amount of $111,600 for contract change orders to be approved by the City Manager; authorization for the City Manager to execute a contract with Go-Live Technology, Inc. for professional services in an amount not to exceed $75,000 for the period of July 1 through June 30, 2016; award of a design and construction management services contract to Iteris, Inc. for traffic signal infrastructure upgrades in the amount of $88,790, plus a contingency amount of $9,000 for change orders to be approved by the City Manager; the appropriation of $39,000 from the vehicle maintenance and replacement fund, and award of bid to Fritt’s Ford of Riverside for the purchase of two 2015 F-150XL and one Ford F-250 XL from the fiscal year 2014-15 auto equipment replacement fund in the amount of $78,682.55; the approval of an additional amount of $40,000 for professional services with Simpson Advertising, Inc for specialty graphic design services for the fiscal year 2014-15 in an amount not to exceed $120,400; the adoption of a resolution approving the application for grant funds from the Los Angeles County Regional Park and Open Space District for the 2015 Countywide Competitive Grant Program for the Sycamore Canyon Park Stream Realignment Project; and approval of the Youth Employment Plan required by a grant to adopt a resolution setting a Proposition 4 appropriations limit for fiscal year 2015-16 in accordance with the provisions of Division 9 of Title 1 of the Government Code.
The Council then moved on to the only item for the Public Hearing section of the meeting, concerning increasing fees for lighting and landscape districts 38, 39 and 41. Council Member Jimmy Lin excused himself from a portion of the public hearing since he is a resident of one of the areas in question.
According to a report for the Council and residents, the City needs to increase additional levy rates to districts 38, 39 and 41 because of heavy maintenance and landscaping in the areas. For ten years, the City has absorbed fee increases at the expense of the general fund budget, and they are now asking residents in these areas to accept the new increases. Several members came out to speak against the increase of these fees, calling the fee spike “unfair” to residents who are facing financial hardships.
However, Council assured the residents that they have enjoyed a decade of lowered fees, and the City has spent $760,000 in general funds; further spending could lead to a deficit.
The Council then approved the levying assessment and rate increases as follows: District 38 will get a $15 fee increase per parcel: District 39 will get a $236 fee increase per parcel; and District 41 will get a $220 fee increase per parcel – which will put all rates on the same level as they were when Diamond Bar was first incorporated in 1989.
After the Public Hearing section was over, the Council then adjourned with plans to meet at 6:30 p.m. on June 2 at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium at 21865 Copley Drive.
Four Table Legs
By Sarah Sanchez
I work with the youth ministry at our local church, so I’m around teenagers about twice a week, in addition to talking to them almost daily. As I’ve worked with the local youth, I’ve begun to understand that they have a lot more to deal with than when I was in school.
It’s a lot easier for a teenager to feel overwhelmed with the pressures of today’s society. To us adults, their problems don’t seem like a big deal because we know there is so much more to life with so many more responsibilities that our teens haven’t even dealt with yet. But a teenager doesn’t understand that. When something significant happens, their whole world can feel like its falling apart – which can lead to serious depression or even suicide.
I like to think of a teenager’s life like a table with four legs. If you knock out one leg of the table, it will begin to fall. In comparison, one leg represents one part of a teenager’s life. When you take a part of it away, their world starts to feel as if it’s falling apart, just like the table. If you knock down all the legs, they can feel as if there is nothing worth living for, which is what triggers the depression and suicidal thoughts. So understanding your teenager’s table legs is crucial to being able to help them.
Based on my experience, a teenager’s world consists of the following four table legs (typically in this order of importance):
Leg #1: Friends/Dating Relationships. I put these two in the same category because it’s usually one or the other. If a teenager is in a relationship, it means they are spending all their time with their boyfriend/girlfriend and aren’t spending much time with their friends. But if they aren’t in a relationship, all their free time goes to their friends. Of course, there are a few exceptions.
If your teenager just got dumped or is being excluded from his/her group of friends, it’s a big deal to them because this is their number one priority in life. They can’t just go off and sit with new friends. Have you seen the movie, “Mean Girls?” (“You can’t sit with us!”). I remember sitting in the bathroom and eating my lunch by myself when my high school friends were mad at me, because that seemed better than walking up to a group of strangers to eat with. It doesn’t make sense, but a teenager’s brain doesn’t always make sense.
Leg #2: School. This is where your teenager spends most of his/her day, so it’s actually pretty important. If your teenager is a junior or senior, they have a lot of pressure with SATs (these are insanely hard now!), graduation, and college applications.
If that’s not enough, what also falls under the school category is social status, which is everything to a teenager. A lot of my students struggle with self-esteem issues because they care so much about what their peers think of them. And with teenagers on five different social networks at a time (yes, there are now five of them), it’s a lot easier for their life to be made public. If something in their life is posted on social media by a peer, it can not only jeopardize their social status and cause them to be isolated from their peers, but a mistake can even haunt them for the rest of their life (said in the dramatic voice of a teenager).
An example might be if your teenager decides to go drinking with their friends (oh, don’t act surprised; you were a teenager, too), and someone videos them drunk – that video can end up on any or all social media avenues. One click of the “Post” button can share the unfortunate incident with friends, who can share it with their friends, and so on – perhaps even going viral worldwide. One post can change your teen’s life. Maybe they are even the ones posting the fate of someone else. The guilt associated with either action can really affect a teenager.
Leg #3: Extra Activities. This category is for anything outside of school and friends, whether its sports, theater, work, or volunteering. These activities are very important to a teenager because they’re spending their free time doing them. So whether they are doing it for fun, money, or for their college applications, they are getting something out of it. But with the perks, comes the stress of succeeding in whatever they are pursuing. The competitiveness of today’s age can also cause a lot of stress too.
Leg #4: Family. Yes, sadly, family is usually last on the priority list (it’s nothing personal). With school, activities, and friends taking up most the day, there’s not much time left for family. However, even if you hardly see your teen, they are very aware of what’s going on at home. It’s probably my most popular prayer request: parents fighting, financial struggles, family feuds; the list goes on and on – I’ve heard some crazy stories. So imagine your teenager struggling with friends and the pressure of school or extracurricular activities, and then you top it off with them hearing about your marital or family problems. All this can push them over the edge with stress that they don’t need. If they are around this turmoil enough, it could affect them more than any of the other categories.
It’s important to understand how any of these falling legs can affect your teenager’s life. I suggest that you talk openly with your teens, even share your own experiences with them; and don’t take their depression lightly.
In my group of about 15 girls, almost all of them have admitted to being bullied, eight have suffered from major depression (53.3%), and four have admitted that they have either attempted or thought about suicide (26.6%). These are just freshman girls. They just entered high school and have already struggled with serious issues. Luckily, they are getting professional help now.
Is your teenager suffering from depression or suicidal thoughts, too? Are they receiving the love and help they need? Have you taken a step back from your busy life to notice if they’re handling theirs?
Growing up, my dad used to tell me that no matter what I did, he and my mom would never stop loving me. He said that even if I falsely accused him of something and he ended up in jail for it, he would still love me. He told me this to make sure I knew that there was nothing in this world that was worth committing suicide for because I always had two people who would love me no matter what mistakes I made. That statement meant everything to me. Yes, I still struggled with depression and even suicidal thoughts growing up, but when it came down to it, I knew it wasn’t worth it because my parents would love me no matter what I did.
So, please, try to understand your teenagers (and their table legs) and show them unconditional love. You never know if one day it might be too late.
Great High Schools
DBHS, WHS medal in latest U.S. News report
By Kelli Gile
Walnut – U.S. News & World Report has once again listed Diamond Bar and Walnut High Schools among the best schools in the state and the nation in the report issued on May 12.
To determine which schools are best preparing their students for college and careers, U.S. News looked at more than 29,000 public high schools in all 50 states and the District of Columbia.
Diamond Bar High received gold medal status out of 30,000 U.S. high schools, ranking 65th in the state and 348th in the nation. Additionally, Diamond Bar’s Magnet ranking is 61st and STEM is 87th in the nation.
“Our rankings are a result of a partnership among students, staff, parents, community members, and the district office in supporting the balance provided by our foundations of the four A’s: Academics, Activities, the Arts, and Athletics,” said Principal Catherine Real.
Walnut High was awarded silver medal status and ranked 105th in the state and 542nd in the nation in the 2015 report.
“We were a little disappointed that Walnut didn’t receive the gold medal again this year,” said Principal Jeff Jordan. “I realize that there are many who look at rankings as the total grade for a school. I am proud of the ranking we have but more importantly, I am really proud of the work that our students and staff do on a daily basis. We are student centered and I am proud that we provide positive opportunities for all students every day. In my opinion, we are focused on doing great things for kids!”
Schools were awarded medals based on their performance on state assessments and how well they prepare students for college. Advanced Placement test scores or International Baccalaureate test data were also used in the rankings.
This year, 500 high schools received gold medals, 2,027 schools earned silver and 3,990 took home bronze.
“At the center of our foundations is our belief in providing equitable access to opportunities for success to ALL of our students,” Real added.
CH KinderCare Burglar Arrested
Photo Courtesy: KinderCare.com
Scene of the crime, the Higgins Ranch KinderCare located at 15928 Los Serranos Country Club Drive in Chino Hills.
By Claire Lewis
Chino Hills – On Wed., May 13, someone thought to rob and vandalize local daycare facility, KinderCare. Management from the KinderCare facility notified authorities, reportedly stating that a suspect not only stole electronics and keys valued at more than $1,000, but offices had been ransacked, as well as three buses belonging to the Center.
According to the Chino Hills Police Department, the property manager was able to provide Deputies with surveillance footage. After reviewing the video, Deputies immediately recognized suspect Reynaldo Sabedra, 45, of Chino Hills.
Sabedra, who is already on probation for burglary, was taking into custody for questioning in the KinderCare incident. As a result of the investigation, Sabedra was booked into the West Valley Detention Center and charged with Burglary and Parole Violation.
CH National Night Out
Chino Hills hosts “National Night Out” Kick-Off Meeting
Staff Reports
Chino Hills – This year marks the 10th anniversary of the City of Chino Hills’ participation in the National Night Out (NNO) crime and drug prevention event. Residents can learn more about how to participate at the National Night Out kick-off meeting, held on Thurs., June 4, 7 p.m., in the Community Room at Chino Hills City Hall (14000 City Center Drive).
The meeting will provide information on how to organize your event. You can also get ideas for activities, and listen as other organizers share what has made their neighborhood events a big success.
This year, the National Night Out event will be held on Tues., Aug. 4. Last year, 27 neighborhoods and more than 1,400 residents participated at local gatherings to enjoy barbecues, potlucks, or dessert socials.
Those who register their events online at http://www.chinohills.org/nationalnightout by July 16 will receive a neighborhood organizing kit (while supplies last). City Council members, Deputies, the Chino Valley Fire District, Citizens on Patrol – and even McGruff, the Crime Fighting Dog – will visit as many registered events as possible.
National Night Out is an event held in local neighborhoods throughout the nation to heighten crime and drug prevention awareness, to strengthen neighborhood spirit, and Police-Community partnerships – and send criminals a message letting them know neighborhoods are organized. It is a time for neighbors to unite for safer neighborhoods and communities.
This partnership benefits our community by helping to keep our City safe and crime statistics low. For more information, please call (909) 364-2713.
Reunion (Part 2)
Pastor Mark Hopper
By Pastor Mark Hopper
I shared in my last article that my wife and I recently attended the reunion of my graduating class at Dallas Theological Seminary. Seminary is like Law School. The purpose is to prepare students for church leadership and Biblical studies. It was a rigorous four year program after college.
The school was honoring graduates from the classes of 1965, 1975 and 1985. I was in the class of ’75. I noticed that those people in the class of ’65 sure looked old! I wonder what the class of ’85 thought about us?
The highlight was reconnecting with former classmates. It was encouraging to hear about their journeys over the past 40 years. Most of us were young married couples in our mid-twenties when we left Dallas 40 years ago.
Classmates scattered across the country to begin serving in various churches and ministries. Dallas Seminary is non-denominational, so graduates could serve in a variety of denominations and independent churches. My wife and I drove west where we began serving at a small church in Tucson, Arizona. We were thrilled that they wanted us to come.
Other graduates went overseas to join churches, ministries or teach in schools in Europe, Asia, Africa and Latin America. It was wonderful to hear individual stories from these former classmates. So much had happened during the past 40 years in each of our lives.
Many brought pictures of their families. Many of us started our families during those seminary years. Our first child was born in Dallas. Families grew and more children were added. Now, most of us are grandparents. Several even had great grandkids!
Our reunion reminded me of the story of Joseph in the book of Genesis. When Joseph was reunited with his father and his 11 brothers, they had many stories to share about their lives during many years of separation.
I wonder if you have taken time to attend one of your high school or college reunions. Maybe there are some friends or former classmates that would enjoy reconnecting with you. It doesn’t need to be a formal “reunion”, maybe just a phone call or reconnecting through the Internet. Why not reach out to an “old” friend or classmate this month? You will be glad you did, and they will too!
Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Ave. Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit http://www.efreedb.org.
Parents And Education Partners Shine At Night of Stars Gala
Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Westhoff Elementary parent, David Morales, was honored at the WVEF Night of the Stars gala. Shown with Bob Pacheco and Eileen Ansari.
By Kelli Gile
Walnut – A stellar group of Walnut Valley parent volunteers and community partners were honored during the Night of the Stars gala held May 7 at the Diamond Bar Center.
The inaugural event, sponsored by the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation, lauded exemplary parents, education and service partners, and distinguished alumnus.
Distinguished parent honorees were Sam and Nancy Castorena (Castle Rock Elementary); Amy Noiboonsook (C.J. Morris Elementary); Christina Kondo and Lily Eibert (Collegewood Elementary); Kathleen Strudwick (Evergreen Elementary); Anna Amezcua ( Quail Summit Elementary); Steve Hernandez (Maple Hill Elementary); Margaret Bersch (Vejar Elementary); Ted and Vickie Ohashi (Walnut Elementary); David Morales (Westhoff Elementary); Yara Sands (Chaparral Middle School); Monica McQuilkin (South Pointe Middle School); Cecilia Yeh (Suzanne Middle School); Rachel Chang (Diamond Bar High); and Diane Takahashi (Walnut High).
“I’m so thankful that the Foundation found this opportunity to publicly thank you for all that you do,” Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor said.
“It takes a village of dedicated parent volunteers and partners in education who generously donate their time and talents with our schools,” said Board Member Cindy Ruiz.
“Even if you can’t chair a fundraiser, every little bit counts and is appreciated!” added C.J. Morris honoree Amy Noiboonsook.
“This award is a tremendous honor that I will treasure forever,” said South Pointe parent, Monica McQuilkin, who is passionate about serving Walnut Valley students, teachers, and staff members. “My goal is to engage our families and communities because together we can accomplish the impossible!”
Walnut High 2014 graduate, Adanna Duru, an “American Idol” top 10 finalist, was named the Distinguished Alumni Honoree.
Distinguished Education Partner awards were presented to Steve Acciani, the Diamond Bar High Instrumental Music Director, and Schools First Federal Credit Union.
Rotary Club of Walnut Valley received the Distinguished Service Partner award and Penske
Mercedes-Benz of West Covina was honored with the Distinguished Business Partner award.
The celebration of education also featured standout Walnut High senior Jeffery Huang and alumni parents, Royal Morris and Sam Wright, who praised the school district’s exceptional teachers and staff members, academic programs, and parent support.
“Walnut Valley is a fantastic school district,” Wright said. “I’m proud every time I can help this district.”
Grand Avenue Beautification Project Begins
Image Courtesy: City of Diamond Bar
By Raymond Mendoza
Diamond Bar – After more than two years of planning and preparation, the Grand Avenue Beautification Project is now underway, as of Wed., May 20.
Thanks to federal funds secured by the City through the Safe Accountable Flexible Efficient Transportation Equity Act, the areas of Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard, and Grand Avenue and Longview Drive, will have nearly $2 million of appealing streetscape and pedestrian-centric improvements done over the next few months.
The improvements include enhanced sidewalks for easier pedestrian crossing, improved sidewalks and crosswalks, added post and wood rails, updated traffic poles and bollards, and a 10-foot tall entry monument sign to welcome commuters and residents into the City.
The project goals, according to the Diamond Bar city website, are to highlight the Diamond Bar community identity, create visual points of interest, establish new streetscape standards and guidelines for implementation at major intersections throughout the City, to be a catalyst for business growth, and to distinguish the City’s historical and cultural identity in a modern interpretation that will promote city pride.
David Liu, Diamond Bar’s Director of Public Works and City Engineer, called the project a “major milestone” since it brings about some modern looks to the area that will be aesthetically pleasing to everyone and help bolster the City’s economy.
“I think that’s one of the main reasons we picked the Grand Avenue and Diamond Bar Boulevard section,” Liu said. “The four corners have the four shopping centers and the idea is that we can encourage more people to come and walk around. The idea here is for the residents to visit the stores and shop at Diamond Bar.”
Plans for the Grand Avenue Beautification Project have been around since April 2013, and while some might wonder about the two year waiting time, Mayor Steve Tye was adamant that the project pace was deliberate to ensure quality for all of Diamond Bar.
“It is wonderful to see a plan finally be realized,” Tye said. “Months of planning will finally be carried out; we believe it is better to do it right, than do it fast.”
Tye echoed Liu’s hopes, that the improvements would help the City’s businesses thrive by giving a modern and attractive appearance.
“I think these changes will make a statement that you have arrived in Diamond Bar, the center of our City,” Tye said. “It will attract people to the area, and they can shop while they’re there, which will help the City continue to thrive.”
Construction will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., now through August. Lane closures and turning restrictions will be in effect during construction and delays are imminent during the construction phase.
For more information contact the Public Works Director at (909) 839-7041, or email publicworks@diamondbarca.gov.
Corona Bank Robber Gets Prison
Driver and accomplice gets State Prison sentence
Photo Courtesy: Corona PD
Patricia Cheree Smith, 26
By Claire Lewis
Riverside – On Feb. 4, Paul Alfred Eugene Johnson, 59, and Patricia Cheree Smith, 26, both of Hemet, robbed the Pacific Premier Bank located at 102 E. Sixth Street in Corona. Johnson threatened bank employees at gunpoint, and fled the scene with a large sum of money in a vehicle driven by Smith.
According to the Corona Police Department, Officers quickly intervened and located the vehicle, and a chase ensued into the city of Chino. As Officers attempted a high risk enforcement stop, the vehicle stopped briefly nearly San Antonio and Bickmore avenues and the driver emerged. That’s when things went from bad to worse.
The pursuit then continued with Johnson at the wheel. He led Police to the 71 Freeway where he crashed off the side of the expressway. As he exited the vehicle, he was struck multiple times by Police gunfire. Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene.
As Smith exited the vehicle in Chino, she was immediately contacted by Police where she declared she was the victim of a hijacking at the scene of the robbery by a man with a gun. Further investigation by Corona Police Detectives revealed that Smith was an accomplice in the bank robbery.
On May 18, Smith appeared in Riverside Superior Court. She pleaded guilty on three counts of armed robbery. With three strikes, Smith was sentenced to State Prison.
Diamond Ranch Student Wins Prestigious Scholarship
By Juliette Funes
Pomona – Diamond Ranch High School senior, Brendan Chin, is one of 1,000 students from across the nation selected to receive the Gates Millennium Scholarship, providing him with a good-through-graduation scholarship to any college or university of his choice.
The Pomona Unified student was chosen from among tens of thousands of applicants for the Millennium Scholar Program, established in 1999 through a $1.6 billion grant from the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Winners of the scholarship were officially announced on May 1.
“It is with great pride and joy to announce that one of our stellar students has been selected to receive this award and make his dreams of pursuing higher education a reality,” said Board of Education President, Andrew Wong. “This speaks volumes of the caliber of students Pomona Unified produces and the academic and social support our schools provide to prepare them for the 21st century workplace.”
Chin will use the scholarship to pursue a degree in computer science at UC San Diego.
“This award is a huge honor and I am so grateful to have gotten this opportunity,” Chin said. “I want to thank Diamond Ranch, my teachers and peers for supporting me throughout this journey. I hope to make my alma mater proud.”
The Millennium Scholarship program helps high-performing students attain their dream of attending four-year universities and colleges through graduate school. Each year, it enables 5,000 students to attend and graduate from 800 of the most selective private and public schools in the country, including Ivy League colleges, flagship state universities, United Negro College Fund member institutions and other minority-serving universities, according to UNCF.
“This is yet another example that our young people of Pomona Unified can compete with the best of the best,” Superintendent Richard Martinez said. “This scholarship will provide Brendan, who has done phenomenal work at Diamond Ranch, the opportunity to excel in his chosen field and become a model of our next generation of leaders.”
Straight Talk With Danice
Danice Akiyoshi
Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:
I just came home from my dear friend’s funeral. I was devastated because I thought he died suddenly from a mysterious illness. Another friend found him unconscious in his home after none of us had heard from him for a couple of days. We were all close and spoke almost daily. At the funeral luncheon his sister told me that he had been diagnosed with cancer six months ago, and that was the real cause of his death. I could not believe what I was hearing. I didn’t say anything, because I don’t know his sister, but I am mad as hell at my friend! Why didn’t he tell me the truth? He was at my house for dinner a couple of times a week. He and my husband were pretty close, too. I don’t understand why he wouldn’t let me help him. Why didn’t he fight for his life? He was only 60-years old. I don’t exaggerate when I tell you that nobody suspected he was this sick. I feel deceived. A real friend wouldn’t have lied to me this way. My feelings are very hurt. My husband won’t share his opinion with me. Do you have any idea why someone would treat a true friend this way? I am sick at heart to think I never knew this man at all.
-Gloria.
Dear Gloria:
I am sick about the way you’ve turned your friend’s death around to make it all about you. I don’t know you, but your emotional maturity needs a lot of work. Has it ever occurred to you that your friend was trying to spare you from grief and sadness? Has it ever occurred to you that maybe your friend wanted his relationships with his friends to be normal and not filled with pity or tears? Not everyone wants to undergo Chemotherapy and traditional therapies that are difficult to tolerate when their days are numbered anyway. Why can’t you find a way to respect that? You are a woman. Let’s pretend you are about to give birth. Do your friends have the right to force their opinions on you about what style of child birth you choose, or whether or not you are going to nurse your baby? Can they insist that you have an epidural when you really prefer to try natural childbirth? Grow up, Gloria. You are choosing to suffer. This stems from your inability to accept that you can’t always control things. People do not owe their friends and family all of their private information. If you’d like assistance for anger, grief, or in improving your emotional maturity, I would love to meet with you. I wish you well, Gloria, and sincerely hope you will feel better soon.
-Danice Akiyoshi, ND
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.
OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 05.23.15
The 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-May23-Weekly-WEB
San Gabriel Valley Community Events
Staff Reports
UPCOMING EVENTS:
David & Margaret Playground
When: Thurs., May 28, 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: 1350 Third Street, La Verne, 91750
Details: Join volunteers and organizers from David & Margaret Youth & Family Services, Disney, Disney Club Penguin, KaBOOM, and residents of the La Verne community to give local children the play-filled childhood they deserve. The playground is based on the children’s drawings from a special Design Day event held in March.
Contact: David & Margaret Youth & Family Services, (909) 596-5921, ext. 3180
All-Sports Expo
When: Sat., May 30; 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Ontario Convention Center.
Details: A day for families, athletes, coaches, trainers, nutritionists and all sports enthusiasts to come together and engage in the latest techniques in training, workouts, college opportunities, financial aid, starting a business and the general love of all sports. Professional athletes will share their experiences.
Contact: Tickets are $10.00, $8.00 (online) and $7.00 (groups of 15 or more). For more information, visit the website at www.thecollegeexpo.org or call NCRF corporate office at (909) 396-0151.
67th Annual Mt. SAC Student Art Show
When: Now through June 4, Tues/Wed/Thurs, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Tues, 5 to 7:30 p.m; Special Reception May 14, 4 to 6 p.m.
Where: Mt. SAC Art Gallery, Walnut
Details: Annual show featuring the best original work by art, photography and animation students. Free, open to the public.
Contact: Art Gallery, (909) 274-4328.
First Friday Food Trucks
When: June 5; July 3; Aug. 7; Sept. 11; Oct. 2; Nov. 6; Dec. 4
Where: WVUSD, Parking Lot, 880 S. Lemon Ave., Walnut
Details: Enjoy gourmet food, great weather and good friends while supporting education! Truck line-up: The Slummin’ Gourmet; Piaggio; Me So Hungry; Street Food; Bakery Truck.
Summer Smiles – Summer Day Camp 2015
When: June 8 to Aug. 19, Mon. – Fri., 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar
Contact: Call Director, John Battaglia, (909) 861-2740, ext. 4
Kids’ Night Out
When: Jun. 20; Jul. 18; 6 to 9 p.m.
Where: Chino Youth Museum, 13191 6th St., Chino
Details: Participants enjoy a fun Saturday evening at the Museum while parents enjoy a nice evening out. Art projects, games, dinner – all with a caring staff. Ages 4 to 10. $12 members/$15 general. Pre-registration is required.
Contact: (909) 334.3270 during normal operating hours, Wed. – Sun., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; or visit chinoyouthmuseum.com.
Pomona Inner City Homeless Ministry Dinner
When: The 4th Saturday monthly: June 27, July 25, etc.
Where: First Baptist Church of Pomona, 601 N. Garey Ave., Pomona
Details: Come help serve the homeless and economically disadvantaged at monthly dinners. Volunteers meet in E202 (2nd Floor) at 12 noon for prayer/devotion, followed by orientation, clothing and hygiene kit distribution, and instruction for serving dinner to the homeless. Ministry ends by 4:30 p.m.
Free Summer Lunch Program
When: Mon. – Fri., July 1 to Aug. 21; 12 to 1 p.m. (subject to change on Tues/Thurs).
Where: Community Building Park, 5443 B St., Chino; and Monte Vista Park, 13196 Monte Vista Ave., Chino
Details: Children 18 and younger are welcome to enjoy a free, nutritious lunch with fun activities this summer. The City of Chino is providing this in collaboration with the USDA and the California Department of Education.
Pomona Police Great Campout
When: July 10-11
Where: Pomona Fairplex
Details: Applications are now being accepted for kids ages 9 – 12 to stay overnight in a safe environment promoting responsibility, respect and positive decision making. Limited to 300 registrants. All campers receive a new sleeping bag, dinner and breakfast.
Contact: Applications are being accepted daily at the Pomona Police Department, (909) 620-2318; or at the City Hall Community Program (Mon. – Thurs., 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
REGULAR EVENTS:
Alcohol and Addiction Intervention Information
When: Third Tuesday, monthly; 6 p.m.
Where: Aurora Charter Oak Hospital, 1161 E. Covina Blvd., Covina
Details: Free information sessions about the intervention process, a powerful tool to combat alcoholism and addiction. Attendees can expect to learn what the intervention process consists of, when an intervention is appropriate, and what local resources are available. Space is limited and reservations are recommended.
Contact: Call (626) 859-5269, or visit http://www.charteroakhospital.com.
Free Acupuncture for Veterans, Active Military, First Responders
When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.
Where: 12598 Central Avenue, Unit 113, Chino, CA 91710.
Cost: Free
Contact: (909) 590-4183 or http://www.healingcirclecommunityacupuncture.com
Jack Newe’s Farmers Market sponsored by SGV Regional Chamber of Commerce
When: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Where: Mt. San Antonio College Campus, Parking Lot B, 1100 N. Grand Avenue, Walnut CA 91789
Cost: Free Admission/Parking
Features: Seasonal organic produce, breads and cakes, olive oils, cheese and spreads, a variety of nursery plants, hand-crafted items and jewelry, fresh-popped Kettle Corn and grilled food plates.
Contact: (909) 869-0701
Grammy Foundation Honors DBHS’ Acciani
Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
2015 Music Educator Award top-ten finalist, Steven Acciani, receives his honorarium, shown (L-R) with Assistant Supt. Dr. Michelle Harold; Assistant Supt. Dr. Matthew Witmer; Grammy Executive Education Director David Sears; Board Members Larry Redinger, Cindy Ruiz and Helen Hall; Principal Catherine Real; and Ford Motor Company Fund’s Dee Dee Boykin.
Staff Reports
Diamond Bar – On Mon., May 18, Music Educator Award Finalist, Steven Acciani, was honored at a presentation by the Recording Academy and the Grammy Foundation at the Diamond Bar High School Theater.
Grammy Foundation Vice President, Scott Goldman, presented honorariums to Acciani and Diamond Bar High School with generous support and resources provided by the Grammy Foundation’s Education Champions Converse, Disney Performing Arts, Ford Motor Company, Journeys, and Microsoft. Acciani received a $1,000 honorarium, and DBHS received a matching $1,000 grant.
A joint partnership of the Recording Academy and the Grammy Foundation, the Music Educator Award was established to recognize current educators who have made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education, and who demonstrate a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in the schools. A total of ten music teachers from ten cities across nine states were finalists for the award. In total, more than 7,000 initial nominations were submitted from all 50 states.
Acciani is the Instrumental Music Director at Diamond Bar High School, and has been with Walnut Valley Unified School district for 26 years.
OC Attorney Charged With Witness Tampering
Irvine lawyer arrested after accepting money to smuggle a witness out of the U.S.
Photo Courtesy: U.S. Department of Justice
Attorney Ken Zhiyi Liang
Staff Reports
Santa Ana – An Irvine-based immigration attorney has been arrested and charged with attempted witness tampering after agreeing to help a Chinese national flee from the United States after the woman had been designated as a “material witness” in a criminal investigation into “birthing houses” operating in Southern California.
According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Ken Zhiyi Liang, 38, of Irvine, was arrested on the afternoon of Fri., May 15, after accepting $6,000 from the witness in exchange for assisting her abscond to China. In a criminal complaint filed on May 16, Liang was charged with attempted witness tampering. Liang was scheduled to make his initial court appearance on Mon., May 18 in United States District Court.
The Chinese national had been designated as a material witness in the federal investigation, meaning she was subject to a court order preventing her from leaving the U.S. without authorization from the government or court. Liang had represented the witness in the matter until the court removed him as attorney of record, over his objections, on Apr. 17.
The federal investigation – which became known when authorities executed dozens of search warrants in early March – focuses on so-called birthing houses that “provided services to Chinese nationals, who travelled into the United States from China, for the purpose of giving birth to children so that the children could obtain United States citizenship,” according to the affidavit in support of the criminal complaint against Liang.
The affidavit, which was written by a special agent with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, recounts several video- and audio-recorded calls and meetings between Liang and the witness. During these conversations, Liang outlined a plan in which he would assist the witness by having her board a commercial airliner in the United States without travel documentation, so she could escape to China undetected by federal authorities. At one of the meetings, Liang told the witness that he could guarantee her safe return to China in exchange for a $6,000 fee for himself, and up to $3,000 to pay for help provided by three others.
During the meetings detailed in the affidavit, Liang refused to provide a written contract to the witness and requested that she pay him in cash, delete text messages and call logs, and begin using a prepaid cellular phone for all future communications.
Unbeknownst to Liang, the witness was cooperating with federal agents, who were monitoring the conversations between Liang and the witness. Liang was arrested by federal authorities as he was walking with the witness toward his car, supposedly to begin a trip to a coffee shop in Corona, where he was going to introduce the witness to the co-conspirators, who are not identified in the affidavit. After his arrest, Liang led agents back to his office, where he returned the $6,000 he had accepted from the witness.
According to the affidavit in Liang’s case, the attorney provided assistance to two other material witnesses – LongJing Yi, and her husband, Jun Xiao – who fled to the U.S. on Apr. 4 and were subsequently charged in relation to their flight from the U.S. Another material witness who allegedly received help from Liang was intercepted at Los Angeles International Airport on Apr. 15.
If convicted, Liang could face a statutory maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
WV Teams Win 27 Medals At Math Fair
Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
8th Grade WVUSD math team members Ethan Lin, Danny Mansour, Megan Yang, and Timothy Yeh won gold medals at the 2015 L.A. County Math Field Day (shown with teachers Amy Erickson and Gary Dresser).
By Kelli Gile
Walnut – Walnut Valley’s high-scoring mathletes brought home a total of 27 medals during the 2015 Los Angeles County Math Field Day.
“Our teams did a terrific job!” exclaimed Suzanne Middle School math teacher and district coach, Amy Erickson.
Overall grade level trophies were awarded to 5th and 7th Grade teams during the Apr. 25 competition. Additional top awards included gold medals for 8th Grade, double silver medals for 7th Grade, and silver medals for 6th Grade. As the newest entry from Walnut Valley, a 5th Grade team, took home gold, silver, and bronze medals.
Math Field Day is an enrichment activity that promotes mathematical reasoning, teamwork and a balanced mathematics curriculum for all students in upper elementary and middle school. Students – working in teams of four – demonstrate their math knowledge in problem solving, conceptual understanding, and computational/procedural skills.
Congratulations to our WVUSD students on an outstanding performance!
8th Grade Team: Ethan Lin (Suzanne); Danny Mansour (Chaparral); Megan Yang and Timothy Yeh (South Pointe).
7th Grade Team: Darren Chen, Tyler Xu (Suzanne); Ryan Lou (South Pointe); and Keshan Sriram (Chaparral).
6th Grade Team: Jacob Khuu, Bryan Wang (Suzanne); Warrick He (Chaparral); and Nathan Song (South Pointe).
5th Grade Team: Alice Chou, Lina Huang, Zachary Lin and Deven Tseng (Westoff).
4th Grade Team: Ashley Chan, Alexandros Kam, Rachel Lee, and Alex Wang (Quail Summit).
Each year, Erickson prepares all Walnut Valley mathletes for the county contest during several practices held at Suzanne. Additional teachers provided supervision during the field day, including Gary Dresser (South Pointe); Sharon Soto and Larry Pinto (Suzanne); and Norma Morales (Quail Summit).
Ordinary Miracles
Nancy Stoops and Midnight
By Nancy Stoops
Learning to go slow and embrace each and every moment can truly be a wonderful thing. I think by living in the moment you can experience all of the daily ordinary miracles. We live in a world that honors our senses with many ordinary miracles. Ordinary miracles are free, and to me some of the best our world has to offer.
Let me share what I believe to be ordinary miracles: I watch the sun smile upon us for another day and then at night it goes to bed, only to be replaced by the moon and stars. I look at all the trees and flowers around my house and I think about how they grew from a seed. The growing of a baby in a mother’s belly and their birth into this world is miraculous. I can sit for hours and watch the waves move in and out on the shore and am blessed with another miracle. To me finding a soul mate or your kindred spirit is a life-changing ordinary miracle.
Now that I’ve shared a few of mine, I want you to think of some of your ordinary miracles. Take a few minutes and write them down.
Now that you have a list of what you believe to be ordinary miracles, post the list in a room you are often in. The next time you feel badly about your life, I want you to spend some time with the list you have made. I think it is impossible to stay depressed or angry when you see all miraculous things in your life and in this world.
Stop focusing on what you don’t have and embrace those little everyday ordinary miracles. I promise if you can do this, your life will be much more meaningful and joyful.
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.
Happy Memorial Day From The Whole Enchilada!
By Claire Lewis
The Whole Enchilada’s Grilled Chicken Tostada with Mango Salsa
Diamond Bar – Come celebrate Memorial Day at local favorite, The Whole Enchilada! Whether you are looking to dine in, or have your holiday celebration catered, The Whole Enchilada wants to become your favorite restaurant, too.
From delicious platters and entrée meals to taco bars, The Whole Enchilada offers fresh, authentic Mexican recipes their resident chef brought from their homeland. They guarantee you will enjoy your dining experience.
“All our food is made fresh daily,” says Lil Palmer of The Whole Enchilada.
The restaurant has been in business for over 30 years, offering a variety of Mexican dishes ranging from enchiladas and burritos to carne asada and fajitas – and don’t forget their delicious Mexican Kaluha Flan or Rio Grande Mud Pie after your meal!
The Whole Enchilada can help cater any event you have planned featuring their delicious handmade tamales, which are available year round. This traditional holiday dish is sold by the dozen and is available in pork, beef, chicken, green chili and cheese. Other menu items, such as the taquito or street taco platters, are available for catering as well.
Whether it’s a Memorial Day fiesta, business meeting or catered Grand Opening, a fundraiser or birthday party, or even just a wonderful excuse not to cook, The Whole Enchilada will dazzle you with their excellent customer service and delicious food. They look forward to helping you celebrate the special moments in your life.
The celebration doesn’t stop with just one visit. The Whole Enchilada has gift cards available for purchase in person or online. It’s the perfect gift for Dads and Grads, too! And be sure to ask about the Combo Punch Card, Enchilada Bucks, and Kids Club.
Don’t deny your taste buds this Memorial Day, visit the Whole Enchilada soon!
The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., (at Grand Avenue, in Diamond Bar). You can reach them at (909) 861-5340, and visit their website at www.wholeenchilada.com.See their ad on the back page of this publication.
Did You Know?
Photo Courtesy: MemorialDay.org
By K.P. Sander
On Mon., May 25, we celebrate Memorial Day – the federal holiday dedicated to the memory of those individuals who died while serving in the U.S. armed forces.
Observed annually on the last Monday in May, the holiday originated after the Civil War in an effort to commemorate all the soldiers – Union and Confederate (over 600,000 in all) – who gave their lives for a better country. It was originally called Decoration Day, bestowing military graves with flowers and flags
Now, of course, Memorial Day honors all of those who have given their all in military service. It is a day of visiting cemeteries and memorials, displaying American flags, and giving thanks for the strength and courage of those who died for our freedom.
According to Wikipedia, historians in Boalsburg, Pennsylvania claim that local women decorated soldiers’ graves on July 4, 1864, and they promote themselves as the birthplace of Memorial Day. Many other cities have done the same. On May 26, 1966, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed a proclamation naming Waterloo, New York, as the originator. Where the holiday began is not as important as never forgetting who it is for.
This Monday, take a moment to remember all those who paid the ultimate price for America and the freedom we hold so dear.
ABC PR -Community News, Public Relations and Advertising Services 