Category Archives: The Weekly News

Neighborhood Watch Works

Alert citizen notifies Chino Hills Police of suspicious activity resulting in arrests

 

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Thurs., May 7, an alert Chino Hills resident noticed the three suspects in an older model, black Nissan Maxima. The suspects were seen parked in the area of Avenida Hacienda and Windmill Creek Road, possibly casing homes. The concerned citizen called Sheriff’s Dispatch Center to report the suspicious activity. Deputies quickly responded to the call for service.
According to the Chino Hills Police Department, Atraiu Odell, 26; Jabrii Belgrove, 20; and Theron Childs, 18 – all Riverside County residents – were contacted at the scene.

A subsequent search by Deputies led to the discovery of a radio scanner programmed to the Chino Hills Police radio frequency, a spring loaded center punch (commonly used for breaking windows) and rubber gloves. The three suspects were arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center for being in possession of burglary tools and conspiracy to commit burglary.

After the arrest, Odell was determined to be on probation for Possession for Sales and was recently released from State Prison under the Assembly Bill 109 Prisoner Realignment Program; he is being held in lieu of $30,000 bail.  Belgrove is on active parole for burglary and is being held on a no-bail parole hold.  Childs was out on bail for a previous arrest in another county, and is being held in lieu of $30,000 bail.

Gold Ribbons For Seven PUSD Schools

Award honors outstanding, innovative schools throughout California

 

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – On May 5, Seven Pomona Unified schools were named California Gold Ribbon Schools, the state’s highest award recognizing academic excellence and innovation.

Receiving the awards were Lorbeer Middle, Emerson Middle, Ganesha High, Garey High, Palomares Academy of Health Sciences, Pomona High and Simons Middle schools.

“There are so many exemplary programs our Pomona Unified schools offer, and this award demonstrates the amazing work our staff is doing to strengthen and improve them for the benefit of all our students,” said Board of Education President Andrew Wong.

The Gold Ribbon Award was created to honor schools in place of the California Distinguished Schools program, which is on hiatus while the state creates new assessment and accountability systems and revises how it calculates its Academic Performance Index, a key factor in the old award system.

The individual Pomona Unified campuses were recognized for best practices that can be replicated at other school sites, including boosting parent and community involvement, increasing STEM programs such as robotics, closing the achievement gap and reducing absenteeism through programs such as Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) and other engaging electives.

“I’m so proud of our teachers, administrators and staff for their collaborative efforts in providing rigorous educational opportunities to our students and for improving the educational environments for the students to thrive in,” said PUSD Superintendent Richard Martinez. “These Gold Ribbon awards are a true testament to Pomona Unified families and Pomona Unified team working together to help our students succeed.”

Walnut Council Recap

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza Walnut City Council members, along with Walnut High Principal Jeff Jordan and So Cal Edison Representative Ben Wong, present Ted Zhu with a $40,000 scholarship from Edison’s program. Zhu's mother is also in the photo, next to her son.

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza
Walnut City Council members, along with Walnut High Principal Jeff Jordan and So Cal Edison Representative Ben Wong, present Ted Zhu with a $40,000 scholarship from Edison’s program. Zhu’s mother is also in the photo, next to her son.

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Walnut’s May 13 City Council session was standing room only, as residents and proud parents packed the room to watch Council members hand out recognitions to dozens of Walnut High School students for various activities.

The meeting started out with Walnut High School student, Ted Zhu, receiving not only a recognition from the City, but a $40,000 check from the Southern California Edison Scholarship program. According to Edison Representative, Ben Wong, the company received 2,800 applications for the scholarship, but only selected 30 based on each student’s strong promise in the STEM careers path.

Mayor Nancy Tragarz thanked Zhu for his hard work ethic and wished him luck when using his scholarship money to attend Harvard in the fall.

The Council also recognized the Walnut High Olympiads for finishing fourth in the State Science Olympiad Competition, the Walnut High wrestling team for being undefeated in the Hacienda League Championship, and the outgoing Youth Advisory Commissioners.

A small group of residents were also in attendance purely to speak during the public comment section of the meeting to urge City officials to remove several cell phone towers that are in close proximity to the City’s public schools. While no actions could be taken by the City Council at the time, Tragarz assured the citizens that the City’s Planning Commission would look into the matter.

The Council then approved the minutes for the Apr. 22 special meeting, and the Apr. 22 City Council/Walnut Housing Authority meeting before approving the only item on its public hearing section: a resolution regarding 2015-2016 lighting and open space maintenance assessments.

Following that, the Council then approved all items on its consent calendar including a resolution allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $910,205.66; the authorization to request proposals for the General Plan update; the approval of the Trail Improvement Project in the amount of $24,300; a bid award to National Auto Fleet Group for a City Fleet Vehicle in the amount of $36,770.17;  the appointments of 15 residents to the City’s Mt. San Antonio College development task force; and the United Walnut Taxpayer Facility Fee waiver request.

After the final item was approved, the Council adjourned with plans to meet on May 27, at 7 p.m., in the Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Reunion

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Recently, my wife and I traveled to Dallas, Texas, to attend my 40th reunion from Dallas Theological Seminary.  We both had graduated from college at Arizona State University, and then I went on to study for four more years to prepare for church leadership and Biblical studies at DTS.

During those years in Dallas, I served on the staff of Northwest Bible Church where together we led the High School and College ministries.   This was a growing and dynamic church and we enjoyed working with these teens and young adults.

On our recent trip to Dallas, we had a small reunion with a number of these people. 40 years ago they were in school and planning for their future.   Now, they are mature adults who are not much younger than we are.

Most of these former students found careers, got married and have raised their own families.  In fact, most of them are now grandparents!   How can that be?  We knew them when they were in high school and college, but now they are grandparents just like us.

It was delightful to hear each one share a little of their story about who they married, where they lived and what they are doing now.  We were surprised by how many children and grandchildren they have.  It was interesting to discover that many of them still live in Dallas not far from where they grew up.

It was encouraging to learn that most of them are still active in local churches and many continue to volunteer as teachers and leaders.  We are thankful that the faith they embraced during their high school and college years is still a vital part of their lives today.

I wonder if your children or grandchildren are part of a high school or college group at a local church in our area today.  Are they learning about the importance of a personal relationship with God that they can carry with them during the rest of their lives?

It is not too late to take your children or grandchildren to a church near you.  There are many churches in our area that have vital programs where children and teens can study the Bible and discover what it means to have a personal faith in God.

The children and teens of today will become the parents and grandparents of tomorrow.  Your faith in God will impact generations to come.  Let me encourage you to find a Bible teaching church near you and begin a journey of faith.   40 years will go by quicker than you think!

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.

Major Marijuana Seizure In Industry

 

Photo Courtesy: Industry Sheriff’s Station

Photo Courtesy: Industry Sheriff’s Station

Staff Reports

City of Industry – On Tues., May 12, Deputies and Narcotics Detectives assigned to Industry Sheriff’s Station conducted a search warrant in the City of Industry, discovering and seizing a large marijuana grow within a warehouse.

Deputies arrived at the location on the 18000 block of Railroad St., along with members from the Los Angeles County Fire Department in response to a fire alarm call for service.

According to the Industry Sheriff’s Station, Deputies smelled the overwhelming odor of fresh marijuana upon arrival, and saw various items used in cultivation, including lights, chemicals and more.  A search warrant was obtained and Deputies later discovered three separate rooms containing over 300 plants in various stages of maturity with an approximate street value of over $1.2 million.

Deputies have arrested an Asian male in his late 40s, associated with the indoor grow. His name is being withheld pending further investigation.

This investigation is ongoing.  If you have any related information, please contact Industry Station Narcotics Detectives at (626) 330-3322. 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.

Vejar Science Night Offers Family Fun

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile 4th Grader, Winston Chang, used his breath to lift heavy books.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
4th Grader, Winston Chang, used his breath to lift heavy books.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Vejar Elementary’s annual science night offered a dozen fun and captivating activities for families.

At the airlift challenge, students learned how much they could lift with their breath.  Students blew into a straw attached to a baggie positioned under a textbook. Many could lift an entire stack of six books.

At another table, youngsters made parachutes from paper cups, string, and a sheet of plastic.  They launched their creations from the top of the amphitheater in front of cheering parents.

The elementary students also made hoop gliders by taping two paper loops to straws. They found out the simple design could fly up to ten feet.

During minute challenges, the Walnut students raced the clock using chopsticks to pluck tiny planets (marbles) into a cup.  Others raced to stack plastic cups into towers.

Miguel Villavert, a 1st Grader, handily stacked an impressive seven red cups before the wind knocked it over.

Teachers Lora Wilson, Giselle Cordova, and Glenda Baker organized the family event held on Apr. 24.

Experts from Walnut High’s Science Olympiad team assisted the young inventors during the activities.

Sophomore Cherie Chu headed up the levitating sphere challenge where students wrapped up a tissue paper ball and made it float.  The youngsters lined up for a chance to magically make the blue paper sphere float in an empty water bottle.

At the invention convention, students showed off their clever designs.  Anastasia Davis used her programming skills to create a Robo Timer from a Lego Mindstorm kit.  The robot beeps every 20 minutes to help students remember to take a 20-second break while playing video games.

“It’s totally fun; there’s a lot of imagination!” exclaimed parent Ying Liu.

CH Deputies Thank Students

Photo Courtesy: Chino Hills PD

Photo Courtesy: Chino Hills PD

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – A box full of heartfelt thank you letters was recently left in the lobby of the Chino Hills Station, evoking emotions in the deputies at the Station that are often not shared by members of the law enforcement community.
“When I read the letters written by these junior high students I was overwhelmed with emotions,” said Chino Hills Lt. Dave Phelps. “I am honored to be in the law enforcement profession and these students summed up the reason why: It is about service and protection of others.”
The letters were delivered anonymously, but because the personnel at the Chino Hills Station are trained investigators, it was quickly learned the letters were written by children from a class at Canyon Hills Junior High in Chino Hills.
“Dear Sheriff, Thank you,” one letter read. “You risk your lives for ordinary citizens. You try your best every day. You aren’t afraid of doing what’s right. You are my inspiration and my hero.”
And other letters encouraged deputies to know people value the job they do:
“I hope you know people appreciate the things you do,” read the letter. “…Even though I don’t know you personally, I know you are great and amazing [people].”
“So if you ever think the world doesn’t need you anymore just know we do need you!” a letter from a 7th Grader read. “At the end of every day just know you are very much respected.”
Capt. Robert Guillen, who serves as Chief of Police for the Chino Hills contract station, shared the letters with the men and women at the Station. The unexpected gift provided encouragement that deputies do not often get. Guillen and his crew are grateful to serve a city with future leaders such as these students.
“Together we felt honored to share this community with those students and felt an even stronger obligation to serve,” Guillen said.
According to Guillen, he wanted to personally thank the students and organized a visit from Sheriff John McMahon and the members of the Chino Hills Station to do just that. On the morning of Mon., May 11, Sheriff McMahon, Capt. Guillen, and about a dozen members representing all ranks from the Chino Hills Station visited the classroom of Mrs. Rosen, the teacher who prompted her students to write the letters.
The students asked some very insightful questions about law enforcement, such as the role of psychology in the profession and the requirements to become a deputy. They also asked informal questions about hairstyles and why police drive Ford vehicles. The most poignant question was, why do law enforcement professionals do what they do. The answers varied from person to person.
Guillen spoke about the calling to be in law enforcement and the responsibility deputies face in their day to day jobs. Lt. Phelps talked about the freedom of not being stuck behind a desk, getting out into the community and having fun.
When asked what they would be if they were not in law enforcement, Sheriff McMahon and Capt. Guillen both answered the same: there is nothing else they would rather do. Law enforcement is the profession they have the greatest passion for and have always wanted to pursue.
Monday’s event was a great way to connect the “anonymous” students with the nameless and faceless deputies they were writing to. And it was a way for the deputies to say thank you for such a simple gesture that had such a great impact.
The letters touched members across all ranks of the Chino Hills Station giving a much-needed sense of optimism to members of a profession that has been under such intense scrutiny. Despite the fact more than 99% of all public interaction with law enforcement ends peacefully and with no conflict, stories of alleged misconduct seem to permeate public dialogue.

Deputies On Leave For Pusok Arrest

Photo Courtesy: SBSD Francis Pusok, 30, of Apple Valley

Photo Courtesy: SBSD
Francis Pusok, 30, of Apple Valley

Staff Reports

Apple Valley – Criminal and administrative investigations are currently underway regarding the use of force in the arrest of Francis Pusok.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, on Thurs., Apr. 9, at approximately 12:12 p.m., Deputies from the Victor Valley station went to a residence on Zuni Road in an attempt to serve a search warrant related to an Identity Theft investigation.

Upon arrival, the suspect, Francis Pusok, fled the location in a vehicle. Deputies pursued Pusok through the unincorporated area of Apple Valley, the Town of Apple Valley and further into the unincorporated area of Hesperia. Pusok abandoned his vehicle southwest of Bowen Ranch and fled on foot. Deputies were actively searching for Pusok on foot, using off-highway vehicles and helicopters.

Within minutes, deputies received information that the suspect came into contact with a group of people near the Deep Creek Hot Springs and stole a horse. Pusok fled on horseback on dirt trails, through very rugged, steep terrain, causing numerous injuries to the horse.
A Sheriff’s helicopter inserted a team of deputies in the area of Hwy 173/Arrowhead Lake Rd. to take the suspect into custody. Deputies made contact with Pusok and as they approached, the horse threw him off. A Taser was deployed by Deputies, but was ineffective due to the suspect’s loose clothing. A use of force occurred during the arrest, sparking the internal investigation.

Two deputies were injured during the search, with injuries consisting of abrasions, a twisted knee and a back injury from being struck by the horse. They have been treated and released.
Francis Pusok was initially treated at a local hospital for minor injuries consisting of abrasions and bruising, and then transported to West Valley Detention Center for booking. He was booked for Felony Evading, Theft of a Horse, Possession of Stolen Property and an active warrant for Reckless Driving. Bail was set at $115,000.

“The video surrounding this arrest is disturbing and I have ordered an internal investigation be conducted immediately”, stated Sheriff John McMahon. He further stated, “In addition, members of the Specialized Investigation Detail are responding to conduct the criminal investigation.”

On Fri., May 8, ten Sheriff’s Deputies were placed on administrative leave, pending the outcome of the ongoing investigation.

Straight Talk With Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

I was the victim of a violent crime 18 months ago.  It has affected me terribly.  I won’t ever be the same again and I cry all the time.  I am filled with fear and I struggle to go to my part time job.  I’m embarrassed by my weakness.  Relying on my family for help all the time makes me want to die.  My doctor pushed me to go to a counselor, but he was not helping me at all.  I went for six months and gave it a fair try.  I looked on your website and read about the Emotional Release work you do.  I think I need something like this.  Do you think you can help someone like me?  I need to get control of my life again.  Thank you.

-Sandra W.

 

Dear Sandra:

Yes, I absolutely do believe I can assist you in improving the quality of your life.  You are not weak.  You are suffering the effects of emotional trauma.  I have assisted many people in your situation.   The Emotional Release work assists with releasing the trauma from your subconscious mind.  Even though the memories and details of your ordeal are harsh, I believe I can get you to a point of feeling neutral about it, instead of highly charged and emotional.

-Warmest regards,

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.

Gold Ribbon To Three WV Schools

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Chaparral eighth graders arrange tiles to form tessellations during math class on May 5.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Chaparral eighth graders arrange tiles to form tessellations during math class on May 5.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley’s three middle schools – Chaparral, South Pointe, and Suzanne – have been designated as 2015 California Gold Ribbon Schools for having exemplary standards and practices.

“These schools are academically successful, vibrant and innovative centers of learning and teaching,” said Tom Torlakson, the State Superintendent of Public Instruction. “They provide great examples of the things educators are doing right – embracing rigorous academic standards, providing excellence and creativity in teaching, and creating a positive school climate.”

The state’s highest recognition went to only 373 of the 10,366 public schools in the state.

In addition, South Pointe and Suzanne were selected as having Exemplary Programs in Arts Education.

This was the first year the state issued Gold Ribbon awards. The program temporarily replaces the California Distinguished Schools Program while officials create new assessment and accountability systems.

WVUSD principals overwhelmingly attributed the achievement to the dedicated students, staff, and supportive community on their campuses.

“This is an honor that we at Chaparral are very proud of,” Principal Ron Thibodeaux stated. “We’ve put a lot into making our school a 21st century learning environment, and the Gold Ribbon validates the hard work of our learning community. Our teachers and staff, parents and students are wonderful.”

“South Pointe is proud to be recognized by the state for its innovative approach to implementing 21st century Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math programs,” said Principal Susan Arzola. “We believe that by putting the “A” (the Arts) in STEM, we provide all students a well-balanced, joyful learning experience. Come watch them STEAM ahead!”

“We are honored to receive the state’s Gold Ribbon award!” said Principal Les Ojeda. ”It reflects the hard work by our Suzanne students, teachers, staff, and parents to ensure we develop students who are prepared academically and ready to face real-world challenges. I am very proud of our school.”

Schools applied for the award based on a model program their school has adopted that includes standards-based activities, projects, strategies, and practices that can be replicated by other local educational agencies.

In Walnut Valley, Gold Ribbon model programs are the 21st Century Classroom Initiative: Chaparral; STEAM Program: South Pointe; and Global Citizenship: Suzanne.

The new award is recognizing middle and high schools this year, and elementary schools in 2016.

Pomona PD Foils Kidnapping In Progress

Staff Reports

Pomona – On Fri., May 8, at approximately 5:12 p.m., officers from the Pomona Police Department’s Major Crimes Task Force conducted a traffic stop in the area of 1700 Gillette Rd. regarding a vehicle code violation. During the traffic stop, the driver of the vehicle did not immediately yield at which point a short vehicle pursuit ensued.

During the pursuit, an occupant of the suspect vehicle was seen discarding a firearm.  The pursuit finally came to a stop and three of the male occupants were taken into custody.  Carlos Gonzales, 32, of Pomona; Juan Sanchez, 22, of Pomona, and Richard Rodriguez, 29, a transient, were arrested at the scene.

A fourth occupant of the vehicle was found to be the victim of a kidnapping, who was being held captive through the use of fear tactics.  The victim was also allegedly raped by a suspect who was not present at the traffic stop.
Through an extensive investigation, the suspect of the rape was identified as Robert Lundberg, 49, of Claremont. On May 8 at approximately 11:15 p.m., Lundberg was taken into custody at the intersection of Towne Ave. and La Verne Ave. after officers saw him leaving his residence. Officers obtained a search warrant for Suspect Lundberg’s residence in order to recover the victim’s stolen property and additional evidence related to this crime.
Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Pomona Police Department at (909) 620-2085. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” at (800) 222-TIPS (8477).

Quality Comes First At Peterson Auto Repair

Peterson Automotive pic WEBBy K.P. Sander

Walnut – If you are looking for a local automotive repair center that performs quality work at reasonable prices – and delivers it all with excellent service – look no further than Peterson Auto Repair Center.

Peterson now houses a full mechanic shop to serve all your automotive needs.  They not only specialize in lube and oil changes, but also repair and maintain radiators, alternators, starters, brakes, clutches, shocks and struts, axles,  air conditioning, belts and hoses, and much, much more.

In business for over 15 years, owner Eric Peterson says, “For me, it’s all about providing quality automotive repair for the neighborhood.  I grew up in La Puente and Walnut, and we have so many good customers in this area.  We really appreciate the business and word of mouth referrals.”

Carhelp.com customers agree, consisting giving Peterson high marks for quality workmanship and fair pricing.

Look for Peterson to add quality auto-body services to the business in the future.

Peterson Auto Repair has a new location inside the same Big Valley Industrial Park.  Look for them a few doors down at 3980-A Valley Boulevard in the City of Walnut.

Peterson Auto Repair Center is open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.  They can be reached at (909) 598-3881.  Mention their ad (see page 10 of this publication) and get an oil change for just $21.99 (plus tax and fees).

Chaparral Students Making A Difference

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Chaparral students made improvements at a community garden through a Disney Friends for Change grant.

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Chaparral students made improvements at a community garden through a Disney Friends for Change grant.

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Chaparral Middle School’s HUMANitarian Club is dedicated to serving.  For the past nine years, members have reached out to area homeless through local shelter programs.

On Global Youth Service Day, the 30 students continued their good deeds by making lunches for a shelter in San Gabriel.  The project was funded through a $400 Sodexo Youth Grant written by 6th Grader, Srijani Krishnan.

“It’s great that everyone is here to help the homeless,” she said to club members. “All the food will go to the St. Vianney Food Pantry today.”

Over 30 members met after school on Apr. 17 to make sack lunches with peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, fruit snacks, candy bars, and bottles of water. Volunteers from the United Cougars assisted with the project.

“It’s awesome that you’re taking your time to make this happen for 144 folks,” said Principal Ron Thibodeaux.

A hunger awareness video was also created to share with classmates.

“It makes you feel good and its fun, too,” said 7th Grader Darren Lo.

Club members also volunteered at the San Gabriel Valley Winter Shelter and sung Christmas carols at a retirement home in Walnut last winter.

President Sydney Robinson was awarded a $500 grant from the “Disney’s Friends for Change” program to make improvements at the Center Street Community Garden in Pomona.

Other HUMANitarian volunteers and their families joined the service project on Apr. 18.

“They harvested food, painted a structure to hold garden announcements, and wrote inspirational messages on rocks to beautify the garden,” said advisor Sherry Robertson.

The members helped paint and shovel mulch at the garden earlier in the month.

“The kids worked so hard!” Robertson said. “It was a cool experience, and we’re eager to go again!”

A police report stated that crime decreased by 50% with the addition of the new garden.

“It’s pretty impactful,” she said.

When A Young Person Dies

By Nancy Stoopsstoops-and-midnight-bw-ORIG

I have done a lot of grieving work with various ages and losses.  These situations are all horrible and very hard to recover from.

The one we seem to struggle with the most is when a child or teenager dies.  Recently I helped a group do some grieving work over a 17-year old. One of the teens in the group told me it was very hard to see somebody his age die.  In the same group the parents in the room told me that teenagers shouldn’t die.

I have also worked with many people that have lost young children.  For them their child’s death feels out of order because as parents we assume we should die before our children.

I guess the truth is that it is never the right time for a person to die, but it does seem more acceptable when somebody is 80 or 90 years old versus 5 or 17.  We have such a hard time when a young person dies because they haven’t had a chance to live their lives.  Death in itself is a tragedy, but when it involves a young person it is doubly so.

I don’t know why some of the sweetest young people die early and some of the most horrible people live a very long life.  I also think many people suffer from survivor’s guilt.  I think this is especially true for parents that outlive their children.  It also seems to be true for the friends of the young person that passed away.  It’s nobody’s fault that you lived and your loved one or friend didn’t.

We don’t know how long any of us have here.  All we can do is love each other well and make sure we spend quality time together while we have the chance.

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.

OC Firefighter Pleads Guilty

Child porn charges to produce explicit photos of young girls abroad

 

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – A Huntington Beach commercial firefighter pleaded guilty on Fri., May 8, to a federal charge of attempting to produce child pornography.

John McArthur, 57, a California-licensed fire captain – who at the time of the criminal conduct in 2012 worked for a ConocoPhillips oil refinery in San Pedro – pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Josephine Staton.

An investigation revealed that in Jan. 2012, McArthur had online conversations with a person he believed was a 13-year old girl in the Philippines. During those online conversations, McArthur agreed to send money for the purchase of a camera that would be used to take sexually explicit photographs of the girl and an 11-year old friend. McArthur later went to a Western Union agent to transfer the money to the minor.

Unbeknownst to McArthur at the time, the person posing as the 13-year old girl was Robert Oliver Clark, 75, a United States citizen residing in the Philippines. Clark was arrested in September 2014 in a related case, and he has agreed to plead guilty to possession of child pornography. In a plea agreement recently filed in United States District Court, Clark admitted that he “possessed, in his computer hard drive and in his email accounts, 5,443 images and 53 videos of child pornography, including 43 images and 1 video portraying sadistic or masochistic conduct and 16 images portraying toddlers.” Clark, who resided in Texas prior to moving to the Philippines, is scheduled to enter his guilty plea on May 21 in United States District Court in Los Angeles.

During this investigation, law enforcement authorities discovered that McArthur received hundreds of images and several videos of child pornography through his email accounts.

McArthur is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Staton on Aug. 21, at which time he faces a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison.

The investigation into McArthur and Clark was headed by the United States Postal Inspection Service, which received substantial assistance from the U.S. Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; and the Los Angeles Joint Regional Intelligence Center.

“Protecting children from crimes of sexual abuse and exploitation is a priority for the U.S. Postal Inspection Service,” stated Robert Wemyss, Inspector in Charge for the Los Angeles Division. “I’m proud of the work of the Postal Inspection Service and our investigative partners to bring child predators to justice. U.S. Postal Inspectors have investigated these crimes for more than a century. While the predators’ use of technology has evolved, the core harm has not changed: a child’s lost innocence. We will not lose sight of this, and remain steadfast in our efforts to investigate, apprehend, and assist in the prosecution of those who seek to exploit children via the U.S. Mail, wherever in the world they may be.”

 

San Gabriel Valley Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

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.

Kids’ Night Out

When:  May 16; 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.

Chino Valley Job & College Fair

When:  Wed., May 20, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where:  New Hope Christian Fellowship, 13333 Ramona Ave., chino

Details:  30 employers will be recruiting to fill a variety of positions in all genres.

Contact:  Register by visiting newhopechino.net/job-fair.html, or call (909) 628-8612, ext. 101.

St. Lorenzo Ruiz 3-Day Event

When:  May 22 – 24

Where:  St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Church, 747 Meadowpass Rd., Walnut

Details:  5/22: Mass, 6:30 p.m., Volunteer Appreciation Dinner, 7:30 p.m.; 5/23: Breakfast, 7 a.m., Pentecost Fun Run, 8 a.m., Mini Carnival, 9:30 a.m., Pentecost Vigil Mass, 5 p.m., Fellowship Dinner, 6:30 p.m.; 5/24: Multilingual Eucharist Mass (all daily masses combined), 11:30 a.m., International Food Festival, 1 p.m. .

Contact:  (909) 595-9545

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.

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.

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

 

Did You Know?

Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia American Red Cross founder, Clara Barton

Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia
American Red Cross founder, Clara Barton

By K.P. Sander

Every time there is a disaster of any magnitude, you can count on the American Red Cross to be on site, lending substantial support in an effort to provide relief.

Founded on May 21, 1881, by Clara Barton in Washington D.C., the humanitarian organization is in the business of providing emergency assistance, disaster relief and education to Americans in every corner of the U.S.  As it has evolved over the years, the American Red Cross continues to provide relief as well as community services for the needy, including military members and their families.  They also serve in the collection, processing and distribution of blood and blood products, as well as provide educational programs on disaster preparedness, health and safety (including international relief and development).  The American Red Cross is an affiliate of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies.

According to Wikipedia, the Red Cross was established in Washington D.C., and the national headquarters itself is a National Historic Landmark.

Founder Barton learned of the Red Cross in Geneva, Switzerland, becoming so impassioned with the concept that she went to Europe in 1869 and became involved in their work. She was determined to bring the organization home.

Barton first organized a meeting on May 12, 1881, at the home of Senator Omar Conger (R-MI) with 15 people present.  She became the first president, and Representative William Lawrence (R-OH) became the first vice-president.  Funding came from John D. Rockefeller, the federal government, and four other individuals for the headquarters, and chapters soon began opening up.

Today, the American Red Cross is a network of more than 650 chapters dedicated to saving lives.  With 30,000 employees and 500,000 volunteers, they mobilize relief to those affected by over 70,000 disasters each year – including fires, floods, hurricanes, tornadoes, earthquakes, transportation accidents, explosions, and much more.

The American Red Cross is not only the largest supplier of blood and blood products, each year they train millions upon millions of individuals in life-saving medical skills, and exchange more than a million emergency messages for U.S. military service personnel and their families.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 05.16.15

2015-May16-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-May16-Weekly-WEB

Emotional Instability Above The Tavern

By Michael Armijo

Recently, I visited the office above the tavern where my counseling sessions are held.  And once again, I have found useful knowledge.

Like-kind, quality people love the familiarity of others who match their emotional state. Subconsciously they seek out others who are feeling the same and have the same issues. In essence, they look for themselves.

I realize that lately I’ve been dealing with a lot of emotions that have come my way in many different forms.  From the standpoint of companionship, health, family – and recently the death of my mother – my emotions have been on a wild ride similar to an out of control rollercoaster. So I’ve found others who are also on this same ride and we hang on together, consoling one another, and giving each other free, bad advice.

This is why I believe we need to seek out our emotions, discuss them, filter out what’s unnecessary, and deal with what’s relevant.  In a way, it’s our duty to force ourselves out of the darkness and into a brighter life.  It’s certainly a better option.

Just as the sun tries to burn its way through a cloudy day, so must we. We need to continue to try and be a source of energy to one another as we work through our own emotional instability.

Maple Hill Receives $1,000 For Books

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile Diamond Bar Friends of the Library presented a $1,000 donation for new library books at Maple Hill Elementary (shown with President Chris Ko, Principal Nancy Stingley and students).

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile
Diamond Bar Friends of the Library presented a $1,000 donation for new library books at Maple Hill Elementary (shown with President Chris Ko, Principal Nancy Stingley and students).

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – Maple Hill Elementary’s Library Media Center will be getting lots of new books thanks to a generous donation from the Diamond Bar Friends of the Library.  Board members from the non-profit presented a check for $1,000 to fund titles from the school’s “wish list” on Apr. 17.

“We have established a new book fund that we are implementing for public schools in Diamond Bar,” announced President Chris Ko.

Maple Hill received the first gift from the organization.

The wonderful new library that opened in late February was created from two connecting portables with fiction and non-fiction spaces.

“Just being able to continually add books to the collections is phenomenal and we appreciate this donation so much,” said Principal Nancy Stingley. ”It gives our students the incentive to read and nourishes their mind.”

A grassroots campaign funded new carpet, paint, furniture, ceiling tiles, and shelving for the library.

“It was all a school effort with lots of support from our parents and community,’ said Principal Nancy Stingley. The renovation wasn’t part of the school modernization plan.

Maple Hill 82-year old grandfather and artist, Cor Grieve, painted vivid murals making the library a one-of-a kind reading sanctuary.  He’s added ten paintings around the campus in the past two years.  Lions, zebras, and giraffes roam in the African Savanna depicted in the non-fiction room.  Across the library, fictional characters Clifford, Arthur, Winnie the Pooh, Little Red Riding Hood, and Harry Potter decorate the walls.

“We wanted to make sure that when we did the library that it would be a fun place for students to come – and such a lively place they wouldn’t want to leave,” Stingley said. “That was our goal and I think we achieved that!”

“It’s really a great place,” Diamond Bar Mayor Pro Tem and Friends’ Board Member Nancy Lyons commented during the tour.