Category Archives: The Weekly News

Mt. SAC Hosts Kepler Scholarship Event

By Mike Taylor

Walnut – Mt. San Antonio College will host the 6th Annual Kepler Distinguished Lecture and Scholarship Dinner, featuring guest lecturer Dr. Eliot Young, on Sat., Apr. 11, at 5 p.m., beginning in the college’s dance studio, Building 2T, Room 121. All proceeds from the event will go to the Mt. SAC Kepler Astronomy Student Scholarship Program.

Young, a principal scientist with the Southwest Research Institute in Boulder, CO, will be the featured speaker for the event. Dr. Young is known for his work in astronomy with stellar occultations and development of maps of Pluto. His lecture for the evening, “Pluto in Our Sights,” will cover what scientists currently know about Pluto and other similar icy objects in the outer solar system, and what they expect to find out from the New Horizons spacecraft set to encounter the dwarf planet for the first time on July 14.   Mt. SAC awards the Kepler Scholarship each year to four astronomy students for their academic work and additional work within the Astronomy Program. Mt. SAC’s Astronomy Program affords its own planetarium and observatory with a 23-foot rotating astronomy dome that houses the college’s main 16-inch telescope. The observatory deck also includes six other 8-inch telescopes that are available for use by the students and public.

Tickets for the event – which includes dinner and the featured lecture – are $65 before March 27, and $75 after March 27. Tickets are available online at signup.mtsac.edu.
For more information, call Mt. SAC Astronomy Professor and Kepler Scholarship Coordinator, Julie Bray-Ali at (909) 274-4148.

Diamond Bar Death Investigation

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Los Angeles County Sheriff’s (LASD) Homicide detectives are continuing their investigation into the circumstances surrounding the death of a female adult that occurred on Wed., Mar. 25, in the 1200 block of North Diamond Bar Blvd., in the city of Diamond Bar.
According to Detectives at the LASD Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station, the LA County Fire Department received a “structure fire” call at the victim’s residence at approximately 1:05 a.m.  Fire personnel responded and extinguished the fire. After a preliminary search of the residence, cause and origin of the fire could not be determined, nor were any victims located in the residence.
Based on this preliminary report, the LASD Arson/Explosives Detail later responded to the residence to investigate the circumstances surrounding the structure fire. During the exploration, investigators received information that the resident of the location, a female adult, was possibly killed by another female, who may have also started the fire. The person suspected of committing these acts was also believed to be driving to the Tustin area.
Tustin Police Department personnel were notified of the incident and subsequently located the female driving in their area. They detained the suspect at the intersection of Tustin Ranch Road and Greenway Drive, before transporting her to the Tustin Police Department for questioning.

It is believed that the victim may possibly be inside the suspect’s vehicle.
There was no additional information available at press time.

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

Silverlakes: Back In Action

(Photo By: Randi Hauser) Spring has sprung in Norco as Silverlakes comes back to life after a long and fallow rest.

(Photo By: Randi Hauser)
Spring has sprung in Norco as Silverlakes comes back to life after a long and fallow rest.

By K.P. Sander

Norco – Think back to a year ago, when the Silverlakes Equestrian Center hit another barricade on a long and bumpy road.  Since the project began construction in 2007, it seems like one thing after another has prevented the 122-acre recreational facility from being completed.  The story – from financing issues to mistrust and lawsuits – has had a lot of drama.

On Thurs., Mar. 5, Eastvale’s Mayor Ike Bootsma announced that the project was a go.  “Funding is secured; bonds have been sold; and construction is going to start next week,” he said.  “Tournaments are scheduled to begin in September.”

As construction began once again on the barren field the week of March 9, interest has been renewed on the sports park that will ultimately contain an equestrian center capable of stabling and hosting world-class (possibly Olympic) events, 25 soccer fields, a 5,000-seat indoor stadium, an outdoor arena and event center, picnic areas, and more.  This beautiful sports mega-center could also bring in over $35 million to the City of Norco, and attract over a half million visitors…a boon for Norco, and Eastvale as well.

Steve King, Planning Director for the City of Norco, said that the project has definitely been approved.  “Synthetic and natural grass fields will be the first phase, along with some sand equine arenas,” he said.

The sports fields will be finished for use this year, and then other phases will commence construction thereafter.

Balboa Management Group, which has been at the helm (albeit on and off again) of construction for more than seven years, has secured $20 million in financing, according to the City of Eastvale.

Despite the ups and downs of Silverlakes, it’s not difficult to become re-enamored with anticipation over what is to come.  Citizens throughout Eastvale and Norco – and far beyond – will enjoy watching the construction process and look forward to enjoying the first fruits of the park come September.

As Eastvale’s Interim City Manager, Michele Nissen puts it, “Norco’s Silverlakes project has been a long-time coming, and we are happy to see the project start moving forward again.  Once this project is complete – assuming it is built out as planned – the regional benefits will be tremendous.  Invariably, there will be temporary construction inconveniences to Norco and Eastvale citizens, which go hand in hand with a project of this scope and magnitude.  This is a very exciting development that is poised to positively impact the trajectory of both cities.”

Well said.  This is definitely a project, that when completed, will place our communities in a more prominent place on the map.

 

 

Straight Talk With Danice

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

I am a helpful, nice person, but I’m tired of my husband volunteering my time for everything.  If our neighbor puts her back out, he volunteers me to make dinner for them for three days.  If someone in the carpool can’t make it, he volunteers me to take their place.  If someone is having a refrigerator delivered, he says I would be more than happy to wait at their home for the delivery man. If his family needs anything, then he volunteers me.  He feels free to do this because I have my own little business. I do medical billing and I work from my computer at home.  He thinks I can just pack up my work and cart it around anywhere.  Because of these constant interruptions, I am often up until midnight trying to finish my work.  He doesn’t know this because he’s in bed at 9:30.  I don’t mind helping people, but I’d like to do it on my own schedule, not his.  How should I approach this?

-Pamela F.

Dear Pamela:

It sounds to me like your husband doesn’t take your work very seriously.  I don’t know enough of the story, but I wonder if he under values the financial contribution you bring to the household.  Or perhaps he struggles with his own self esteem and wants to be a people pleaser.  Unfortunately, this is at your expense, not his.  To get to the bottom of it, why don’t you ask him if he’s fine with you putting your business on hold, as well as the money it brings into the household (slight sarcasm)? Explain that then you will be free to do all of these errands he keeps setting up for you.  If he says the family needs the money, this gives you an opening to ask him to respect your business as if it were actually important to the family.  If you’d like a more direct approach – which I always like best – advise him that he is no longer free to offer your time or services without your permission.  It really is just a matter of respect.  Let me know if you need additional assistance with boosting up your personal power.

-Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

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

Chaparral Music Receives National Recognition

supportBy Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – The SupportMusic Merit Award is awarded to individual schools that demonstrate outstanding achievement in efforts to provide music access and education to all students.

To qualify for the SupportMusic Merit Award, Chaparral answered detailed questions about funding, graduation requirements, music class participation, instruction time, facilities, support for the music program, and community music-making programs. Responses were verified with school officials and reviewed by The Center of Public Partnerships and Research, an affiliate of the University of Kansas.

“It is really exciting to be recognized by a prestigious national organization for the musical opportunities we offer to our students,” said Principal Ron Thibodeaux. “An award like this will motivate students to enroll in our campus music programs and will help us to celebrate properly the grand opening of our state-of-the-art music building next fall.”

The NAMM Foundation’s SupportMusic Merit Award brings attention to the importance of keeping music education part of the school’s core education for all students. It also highlights music’s vital role in students’ overall success in school.

Community music programs have been drawing increased attention this school year because of a landmark study by Northwestern University brain scientists. These researchers found new links between students in community music programs and academic success in subjects such as reading.

Roughly 92 percent of Chaparral’s 1,239 students are currently enrolled in an arts program at the school. Chaparral enjoys tremendous community support that reflects a high value on music education for its students. As well, Chaparral’s music program has blossomed under a team of music teachers who are highly trained, committed to student success, and dedicated to their craft.

The Music program at Chaparral offers a wide range of musical electives including band, orchestra, choir, music technology, guitar and general music. Each year, Chaparral students win prestigious awards at festivals where the music programs are showcased. Not surprising, Chaparral’s 929 API reflects the positive side effects that are so typical of schools that place emphasis on music programs.

 

About The NAMM Foundation

The NAMM Foundation is a nonprofit supported in part by the National Association of Music Merchants and its nearly 9,200 members around the world. The Foundation advances active participation in music making across the lifespan by supporting scientific research, philanthropic giving and public service programs. For more information about The NAMM Foundation, please visit www.nammfoundation.org.

 

 

 

 

DB State Of The City Address

(Photo By: Raymond Mendoz)a Mayor Steve Tye delivers the annual State of the City Address concerning the City’s major projects and plans.

(Photo By: Raymond Mendoz)a
Mayor Steve Tye delivers the annual State of the City Address concerning the City’s major projects and plans.

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – Future plans for the City of Diamond Bar were given a promising backing when Mayor Steve Tye delivered the annual State of the City Address that outlined the City’s short and long-term goals.

The event  was held at the Diamond Bar Center, at 1600 Grand Avenue, and covered various topics that Tye believed would not only make Diamond Bar more profitable, but also more attractive to residents in neighboring cities.

Tye’s speech outlined City projects, including  the Grand Avenue Beautification Project, the conversion of the former Von’s Grocery to a Haggen brand store, the opening of the Walmart Neighborhood Market, two new tire store/service centers, the expansion of the Shell gas station on Diamond Bar Blvd., a new Starbucks, T-Mobile, and Waba Grill, the future of the former Honda and K-mart locations, maintenance for Heritage Park, improvements for Steep Canyon Connector Trail and Pantera Park Trail, a “Pop-up City Hall” for spreading information, and two projects that would hopefully lessen traffic congestion.

“It’s our strong sense of shared ownership of what happens in our community that has made a difference, and will continue to make a difference, for the next 25, 50 and 100 years,” Tye said. “We, as a collective, have made Diamond Bar a community worth belonging to – and it’s because it’s worth belonging to. It’s worth investing in.”

Tye mentioned that while new businesses are typically a welcome sight for sales taxes, he also stated that the City is firmly against allowing medical marijuana dispensaries and massage parlors at this point in time, because both establishments have the likelihood of creating “disorder” that could put Diamond Bar at risk.

However, the biggest topic of the event was not unwanted businesses, but rather the City’s longtime struggle with increasing traffic problems.

Diamond Bar residents, Phil and Pat Williams, said the biggest topics were the planned 57/60 Confluence Project and the Lemon Avenue On/Off Ramp Project. Both said that traffic was a major problem in certain parts of the City and that the two projects would help to ease some of the burden.

32-year resident, Bruce Buller, agreed with the Williams’, stating that it was good to see the City improving itself in terms of traffic, especially since Diamond Bar and other surrounding cities continue to grow.

In both cases, construction for the 57/60 Confluence Project and the Lemon Avenue On/Off Ramp Project is set to take place over the next few years. Tye said the 57/60 Confluence Project – which will cost an estimated $275 million – will be split into four phases, with the earliest phase starting this fall and the last phase starting sometime after 2017. Tye said the construction is extremely important since the two mile space of freeway hosts an average of 600 accidents per year and is rated as the seventh worst bottleneck in the entire United States.

Tye mentioned that while the City only has $46 million to go toward the 57/60 Confluence Project at the present time, Public Works Director, David Liu, and City Council Member, Jimmy Lin, are currently lobbying for more federal funds from Washington D.C.

Conversely, the Lemon Avenue On/Off Ramp Project will cost $22.34 million – a drop in the bucket compared to the 57/60 project. The Lemon Avenue On/Off Ramp Project will also be fully funded by federal, state and local sources, which includes several million dollars from the City of Industry. Tye said the construction is slated to begin January 2016 and conclude by the middle of 2017.

“There’s still a lot of work to do together with our project partners that include the City of Industry and Metro,” Tye said. “But as our track record shows, we are committed. We are ready for the challenge and we’re not afraid to do the hard work.”

Tye said the City’s current projects will be a long-term investment that will carry over through the decades and ensure Diamond Bar’s impressive reputation, making it the image of pride among other cities in California.

 

Happy Easter From The Whole Enchilada!

Join The Whole Enchilada for Easter Breakfast –Open at 9 a.m.

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Easter is just around the corner, and celebrations are plentiful with family and friends around this holiday.  This year, why not bring the celebration to The Whole Enchilada, beginning with breakfast at 9 a.m.

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.

Planning to have an Easter celebration at home?  The Whole Enchilada can help cater your event with 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 an Easter 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.

If you are looking for a sweet Easter treat after your meal, try The Whole Enchilada’s Mexican Kaluha Flan, Rio Grande Mud Pie, or popular Deep Fried Ice Cream.  Much better than a chocolate rabbit, and muy delicioso!

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 an Easter basket!  And be sure to ask The Whole Enchilada about the Combo Punch Card, Enchilada Bucks, and Kids Club.  With a wide variety of reasons to visit, it’s obvious that The Whole Enchilada wants to become your favorite restaurant.

Don’t deny your taste buds this Easter, visit the Whole Enchilada soon!

The Whole Enchilada is open on Easter Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.  They are 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.

Pomona PD “Game Over”

Prostitution Enforcement Sting Operation nets 19 arrests

Staff Reports

Pomona – On Tues., Mar. 24, during the hours of 2 to 10 p.m., the Pomona Police Department Major Crimes Task Force Unit conducted an undercover prostitution sting on the East Holt Corridor.

The Pomona Police Department was assisted by members of the San Bernardino, Montclair, Azusa, and Glendora Police Departments.
This operation was conducted to address the quality of life issues associated with prostitution, and in response to the numerous complaints received from residents and business owners. During the operation, 18 men, ranging in age from 19 to 60, were arrested for Solicitation of Prostitution; and one man was arrested for Pandering.
The Pomona Police Department’s Major Crimes Task Force Unit is actively working certain areas in the city known to attract prostitution. Several more detail stings of this nature are planned for the future. Anyone wishing to report such activity is encouraged to contact the Pomona Police Department Major Crimes Task Force Unit at (909) 620-2148. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

PUSD Teachers Accomplish National Feats

3 Achieve National Board Certification 5 Named to Honor Roll

(Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes) Jessica Jordan of Simons Middle School, Melissa De Nova of San Antonio Elementary, and Sabrina Ortega, a teacher on special assignment, have been honored with National Board Certifications. They were recognized by the Pomona Unified Board of Education on Mar. 3.

(Photo Courtesy: Juliette Funes)
Jessica Jordan of Simons Middle School, Melissa De Nova of San Antonio Elementary, and Sabrina Ortega, a teacher on special assignment, have been honored with National Board Certifications. They were recognized by the Pomona Unified Board of Education on Mar. 3.

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – Several Pomona Unified School District teachers recently received national recognition for their dedication to ensuring student success and commitment to teaching excellence, including three who have obtained National Board Certification.

Melissa De Nova of San Antonio Elementary, Jessica Jordon of Simons Middle School and Sabrina Ortega, a teacher on special assignment, join 14 PUSD teachers who are nationally board certified – considered the gold standard in teacher certification.

Additionally, five teachers are among the first educators in the nation to be named to the Renaissance National Honor Roll for their outstanding performance in advancing students’ achievement in reading. They are Michael Dyer of Decker Elementary and Allison Elementary teachers Marie Anderson, Nicole Le, Carmen Martinez and Brenda Wilmore.

“Our teachers are always willing to go the extra mile and challenge themselves in order to provide the highest quality education possible for our students,” said Board of Education President, Andrew Wong. “Our students continue to excel because of the excellent support and instruction our teachers are providing, which is a direct result of their rigorous training and practices.”

Granted by the National Board for Professional Teaching Standards, the National Board Certification is the highest recognition an educator can achieve and serves as the profession’s mark of accomplished teaching in a single subject area. To qualify, teachers must demonstrate expertise in a chosen subject through multiple rigorous, performance-based measures.

In California, only 6,249 teachers have been honored with this certification. PUSD now includes 17 nationally board certified educators.

The Renaissance National Honor Roll is a new distinction awarded to teachers for their exceptional use of Renaissance Learning’s flagship software program, Accelerated Reader. Using this program, students in every PUSD school learn to read closely through instructional activities that allow them to practice reading, writing and research, enabling teachers to monitor comprehension and growth.

“We are very proud of our accomplished teachers and commend them for their hard work,” said Superintendent Richard Martinez. “Each form of recognition further reinforces the extremely high level of dedication our teaching professionals give every day in order to strengthen the quality of instruction our students receive on a daily basis.”

 

 

Healing Your Heart And Spirit

By Nancy Stoops

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

It takes an incredible amount of courage to start therapy.   Many people start, but leave just as they are really starting to deal with their core issues.

In order to really heal, a person must not only face their demons, but take them on and beat them. This is a scary yet very necessary process if one is to be free from all that holds them hostage.  I can’t think of anything worse than a life wasted because the person was too scared to take on their demons.

On the other hand, it is such an honor to help somebody walk through the journey that allows them to take on their demons and beat them.  It is a miracle to me and such a blessing that this is my life’s work.

Sometimes life can deal us tragedies that we think we will never recover from.  I think many things can stop us in our tracks for awhile, but I believe we are capable of healing from anything.  To heal from the really hard and awful things, we must have a strong desire to do so.

At 17, when my brother Rory committed suicide, I thought that was the end of me.  In my early 40s, when my brother Jeff was murdered, I was so angry I thought my anger would destroy me. Later in my 40s, when I saw my father through his last days, I thought my sadness was going to swallow me up.  I honor their memory by being filled with zest and being who I am intended to be.

It’s been a hard but priceless journey finding my way through it all, and it wouldn’t have happened without a lot of healing work.

Make today the day you start healing and finally living the life you deserve!

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. Nancy is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members. She runs free family support groups, 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 Nancy at (909) 229-0727; or you may e-mail her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books, Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

Mt. SAC Begins Long Awaited Parking Structure

(Photo Courtesy: Jill Dolan) Students have taken to parking on curbs, islands, and anywhere they can find a spot while waiting for the new parking structure to manifest.

(Photo Courtesy: Jill Dolan)
Students have taken to parking on curbs, islands, and anywhere they can find a spot while waiting for the new parking structure to manifest.

Staff Reports

Walnut – After more than 13 years of planning, Mt. San Antonio College has begun work on a new $48.5 million parking structure that will provide an additional 1,650 parking spaces, and will help alleviate one of the top complaints of students at the Walnut campus – parking.

“The new parking structure will address Mt. SAC’s current needs for student parking while preparing the college for the future,” said college President, Bill Scroggins.

Located on the northwestern edge of the campus on the site of what is currently a parking lot, the new parking structure will provide badly needed student parking for a campus that served 54,000 students last year. Currently, there are a little over 7,200 parking spaces at the college, while the maximum number of students on campus at any given time is just over 9,500. According to enrollment projections, the structure should provide enough parking for students until at least 2025.

(Photo Courtesy: Jill Dolan)

(Photo Courtesy: Jill Dolan)

“Regardless of the time of day, it is very difficult to find parking on campus, but it’s especially difficult during the mornings,” said Chris Nguyen, Mt. SAC’s Student Body President. “This parking structure will make sure that every student will be able to find a parking space.”
At peak periods during the first two weeks of the fall and spring semesters, students park along red curbs and drive in circles to find parking. This is despite Foothill Transit bus passes that have been provided at no cost to students for nearly two years as an introduction to the Class Pass program.
Throughout the 13 years of project planning, the college has made every effort to address possible concerns while adhering to the mandates of the State Architect’s Office.

“We’ve tried to mitigate any of the possible issues with the parking structure. We’ve done each of the required steps in terms of environmental impact, traffic studies, construction design, and approval by the state,” Scroggins said.

During the planning stages of the project, Mt. SAC and the City of Walnut worked together. Mt. SAC staff met with the City planning and engineering staff, and in 2007 presented a plan for the structure to the college’s Board of Trustees. The college also submitted environmental impact reports to the City, as required by the California Environmental Quality Act as early as 2002. The reports were then updated in 2005, 2008, and 2012. The California Division of the State Architect made the final decision to approve the parking structure.

The parking structure will take advantage of the hillside contours. It will be five levels on the west side and decrease to only two levels on the east side to protect neighboring residents’ sightlines. It will provide 2,085 spaces. Because it will be built on an existing lot with 435 spaces, the total addition of spaces is 1,650. Temporary Lot M was developed to ease the loss of spaces during construction.

The parking structure location is ideal for students, giving them easy access to classes and student support services. This will reduce the need for students to drive in circles to find a spot in prime lots.
The intersection of Grand Avenue and Mountaineer Road was designed to meet higher traffic levels than it accommodates today. Traffic to the parking structure is expected to generally flow in the opposite direction of traffic from the neighboring homes. During peak periods at the start of semesters, the intersection is forecasted to experience a 10 second increase in wait times. During the rest of the year, the intersection is expected to be much as it is today.

Construction of the parking structure will be conducted in two phases. The first phase includes preparations, such as demolition, underground utility improvements, and earthwork. The second phase – slated to begin this July – entails the actual construction. The parking structure is expected to be finished and ready for use by Jan. 2017.

The parking structure and its related projects, including the addition of a bike lane and Temporary Lot M, will be paid for through Measure RR funds; Mt. SAC’s $353 million facilities bond passed by voters in 2008.

MADD Honors OCDA

14 Attorneys were recognized for exception prosecution of drunken driving cases

Image Courtesy: MADD

Image Courtesy: MADD

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – On Wed., Mar. 25, the Orange County chapter of Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) honored 14 Orange County Deputy District Attorneys for their time and effort in prosecuting driving under the influence (DUI) cases in 2014. MADD hosted the 28th Annual Law Enforcement and Prosecutor Recognition Luncheon to honor Orange County prosecutors and police officers for their outstanding contributions to the prosecution of DUI cases. The luncheon was held at the Richard Nixon Library in Yorba Linda.

At the luncheon, six Orange County District Attorney (OCDA) prosecutors, including Senior Deputy District Attorney, Jennifer Walker, and Deputy District Attorneys Jim Bilek, Devin Campbell, Stephen Cornwell, Anna McIntire, and Nick Miller, received the 2015 Diligent Prosecutor Award to recognize their support to victims and their families and efforts in criminal prosecution of DUI defendants. Each was nominated by their OCDA supervisor or a MADD victim advocate. The recipients were verbally recognized and received a plaque at the luncheon.

Additionally, the eight members of the DUI-Drug (DUID) vertical prosecution team were recognized for their collective efforts to prosecute drug impaired, and combination (alcohol and drug) impaired drivers.  The DUID team members recognized for their efforts were Hoon Chang, Anna Chinowth, Shiba Etemadian, Ed Grubaugh, James Hong, Jake Jondle, Sherin Larijani, Nick Miller, and Erika Pennington.

The 14 honored deputy district attorneys prosecuted defendants who faced charges ranging from misdemeanor driving under the influence to felony murder. The efforts of the prosecution resulted in the defendants’ convictions with sentences as high as 30 years to life in state prison.

MADD is a nationwide, non-profit organization that works to stop drunken driving, support victims, survivors, and families affected by drunken driving, and prevent underage drinking. The Orange County Chapter of MADD was formed in 1981 and offers services and education to the local community, including youth programs, victim services, and special events. MADD works closely with Orange County law enforcement agencies to support the prosecution and apprehension of those who put the public at risk by driving under the influence of alcohol.

 

 

Did You Know?

(Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia) An April Fool’s prank in Denmark, regarding Copenhagen's new subway. It looks as if one of its cars had an accident, and had broken through and surfaced on the square in front of the town hall. In reality, it was a retired subway car, specially cut and placed on loose tiles. The sign reads, “Unexpected Guests?”

(Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)
An April Fool’s prank in Denmark, regarding Copenhagen’s new subway. It looks as if one of its cars had an accident, and had broken through and surfaced on the square in front of the town hall. In reality, it was a retired subway car, specially cut and placed on loose tiles. The sign reads, “Unexpected Guests?”

By K.P. Sander

Have you ever had an April Fools’ Day prank played on you?  Celebrated on the first of April each year, this day of tom-foolery is popular in many countries around the world.

This official day of Monkey Business has encouraged everything from a simple joke to an elaborate hoax reported by the media (to be recanted at some point in the immediate future).

April Fool’s Day goes back to the Middle Ages, and according to Wikipedia, may have originated in France as part of their New Year’s celebration.  Even the Roman Festival of Hilaria records incidents of harmless pranks being played on unsuspecting victims.  On Apr. 1, 1698, there are tales of people being tricked into visiting the Tower of London to “see the Lions washed.”

A more recent prank occurred on Apr. 1, 1996, when Virgin Cola placed an advertisement in British newspapers announcing that “in the interest of consumer safety it had integrated a new technology into its cans.”  When the cola passed its sell-by date, the liquid would react with the metal in the can, turning it a bright blue.  Virgin warned consumers to avoid the purchase of any and all blue cans.  Coincidentally – or not – Pepsi had just unveiled the redesign of its product – with bright blue cans.

Here’s hoping that on Wed., Apr. 1, 2015, you are able to enjoy a few April Fool’s Day jokes, without being the subject thereof.

Road Trip

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

When my brother and I were growing up in Arizona, our parents would usually go on vacation in August and drive to San Diego to get out of the hot summer weather in Phoenix.

When my wife and I were raising our own young family in Tucson, we did the same thing.  We would take our kids to San Diego to get away from the hot weather in Arizona.

When my wife’s parents retired, they followed the same pattern.  They would drive from Phoenix to San Diego to get away from the hot summer weather in Arizona.

Maybe this is why I think that San Diego is one of the most beautiful places in the country. We loved going to the beach and Balboa Park.  Sometimes we were able to afford a trip to Sea World or even drive up to Disneyland for a day.

We have so many fond memories of our road trips to San Diego and all the fun we had there with our families.  However, my memories of getting to San Diego are another story.

When my brother and I were young, my parents drove a 1950s Nash Rambler – with no air conditioning – across the desert to San Diego.  It was a long, hot, sweaty drive!

When our own kids were young, they would complain about how hot and long the drive to San Diego was.  There is not much to see along the way.  They would get tired and bored and complain.  The familiar questions were, “How much longer” and “Are we there yet”?

Recently I read a verse in the Bible that reminded me of those road trips from Arizona to San Diego.  In Genesis 45:24, when Joseph sent his brothers back from Egypt to their father in Canaan, he told them, “Do not quarrel on your way.”

Remember, Joseph’s brothers had sold him into slavery.  Years later they were amazed to discover that not only was Joseph alive, but he was a high ranking official in the land of Egypt. He forgave them and provided them with food and supplies for their families back in Canaan.

I know there are times when we all find ourselves quarreling or complaining about our circumstances.  We lose sight of the goal of getting to beautiful “San Diego.”  We quarrel with others who are taking up too much space in the car.

As you begin to make plans for your summer vacation, remember to be grateful and not grumble.  Be thankful that you can enjoy time together and don’t complain and quarrel.  Make some lasting memories and cherish your time with family and loved ones!

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Ave. Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit http://www.efreedb.org.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 03.28.15

2015 0328 Cover Jpg WEBThe 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-Mar28-Weekly-WEB

Happily Ever After Above The Tavern

By Michael Armijo

Terminal Uniqueness:  The belief that no one, anywhere, in any situation, has ever faced exactly what you are facing.  Nobody.

During a recent grief counseling session at my therapist’s office above a tavern, I learned about Terminal Uniqueness, and what that phrase means to me.

I think that at certain times in our lives, we believe that we are terminally unique.  It is usually associated with times of dramatic or traumatic change, when we feel totally alone, and that no one could possibly understand what we are going through.  We feel our particular situation is so different, that it has never even come up before.  Sure, there are similar circumstances, but nothing that would allow anyone to truly get what we are going through.

I have come to learn that when we are distraught, we feel isolated from everyone around us.  But in reality, we subconsciously choose to feel this way; depression tricks us into believing the lies that we are alone and no one will understand.

The key is to reach out to someone in an effort to keep away from the isolation and the sinking emotions that come with it.  You’ve got to keep reaching until you find someone that will listen, and encourage you to let your feelings out, and keep you moving forward.  The people that care for you are willing; you just have to allow them in.

So, as I sit outside in the sun, writing this down, I am reflecting on a tough week.  Sometimes, healing takes you through an exhaustive process – emotionally, mentally, physically, and spiritually.  I am repeating encouraging words and positive phrases over and over in my mind; I’m trying my best to smile and appreciate the sound of soothing music and a nice breeze…and I am feeling Terminally Unique.  Unique in my thoughts, emotions, and life experiences, but realizing I can be blissfully together as I reach out to others that are also feeling unique.  Together we can achieve a Happily Ever After.

Community Events

Staff Reports

UPCOMING EVENTS:

“Landmarks:  Memories of Places”

When:  Now through April 16.  Gallery hours are Tues. through Thurs., 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Tues. evenings 5 to 7:30 p.m.

Where:  Mt. SAC Art Gallery

Details:  This exhibit features the work of Mt. SAC professor and ceramic artist, Susie Rubenstein.  Free, and open to the public.

Contact:  For more information, call the Art Gallery at (909) 274-4328

Free Tax Return Services

When:  Apr. 11 – 8 a.m. to Noon

Where:  Ganesha High School, 1151 Fairplex Drive, Room 12, Pomona

Details:  IRS-certified volunteer students who have been officially trained and tested in current tax law will offer free tax return preparation services to community members during eight Saturday sessions.  No appointment is necessary; the service is available to those whose annual income is $53,000 or less.

Contact:  Jackie Jones, (909) 397-4400, ext. 30012.

 “Oliver!”

When:  March 27, (7 p.m.); 28 (2 p.m.)

Where:  Walnut High School Performing Arts Center, 400 N. Pierre Road, Walnut.

Details:  “Oliver!” is an enthusiastic experience, packed full of some of the most iconic characters to ever grace the stage, from the wily trickster Fagin, to the swaggering pickpocket, The Artful Dodger.  The musical adaptation is based on Charles Dickens’ timeless classic of an orphan boy who dared to ask for more.   Advance purchase tickets are $13 for adults and $11 for students/seniors. Tickets purchased at the door are $15 for adults and $13 for students/seniors.

Contact: Tickets are available at www.seatyourself.biz/walnutmusical.  For show information, please contact director Joanne Karr at (909) 594-1333, ext. 34212.

Kids’ Night Out

When: Apr. 18; 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 www.chinoyouthmuseum.com.

Pomona Inner City Homeless Ministry Dinner

When:  The 4th Saturday monthly: Mar. 28, April 25, May 23, 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.

Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club Annual Golf Classic

When:  Mon., April 6.  Registration will be held between 9:30 am and 11:15 am, with a Shotgun Start at 11:30 am.  .

Where:  Western Hills Country Club, 1800 Carbon Canyon Rd., Chino Hills 91709

Details: Proceeds benefit the Explorer, Reserve Deputy and Citizen volunteer programs at the Sheriff’s Station.

Contact:  For further information contact Sergeant Mark Saldecke at (909) 595-2264; or Gill Rivera at (909) 967-4525.

Diamond Bar Birthday & Business Showcase

When:  Sat., Apr. 11; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Where:  Pantera Park, 738 Pantera Drive, Diamond Bar

Details:  Be part of the DB Birthday Celebration by getting a booth at the Business Showcase.  Over 6,000 attendees!  Sign up while premium exhibitor space is still available.

Contact: www.diamondbarca.gov/bday

First Friday Food Trucks

When:  May 1; 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.

Chino Corporate Challenge

When:  May 2 – 15

Where:  City of Chino

Details:  Commit your company and yourself to a healthier lifestyle by joining the two week event where company teams can complete with other local businesses in a variety of games, including Kickball, Bunco, Softball.

Contact:  Carolyn Owens, Community Center, (909) 334-3258; email communityservices@cityofchino.org; or visit the website at www.chinocorporatechallenge.com

Irwindale 35th Annual Golf Tournament

When:  Thurs., May 7; 10 a.m. Registration; 11:30 a.m. Shotgun Start; 5:30 p.m. Catered Reception Dinner

Where:  Sierra La Verne Country Club

Details:  The tournament is open to every level of golfer and offers an invigorating day of business networking, socializing and sporting fun. Registration is limited to 144 players and sells out every year.

Contact:  Call the Chamber office at (626) 960-6606, or visit http://www.irwindalechamber.org

 

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

Team Challenge Honored Hero

(Photo Courtesy: Stacy Dylan) Lowell, Jonah, and Stacy Dylan at a Team Challenge event.

(Photo Courtesy: Stacy Dylan)
Lowell, Jonah, and Stacy Dylan at a Team Challenge event.

Staff Reports

Los Angeles – Lowell Dylan is not your typical 14-year old boy.  At just 2-years of age, Lowell was diagnosed with severe Crohn’s Disease, and his world has been profoundly changed.

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are serious, life altering chronic illnesses. This is not just an upset stomach or irritable bowel syndrome. These are autoimmune disorders which profoundly impact the quality of a person’s life.  These diseases can be especially aggressive in children, and often cause growth failure because of an inability to absorb nutrients properly.

(Photo Courtesy: Stacy Dylan) Lowell Dylan

(Photo Courtesy: Stacy Dylan)
Lowell Dylan

Lowell’s mother, Stacy Dylan, feels that there is nothing as difficult as watching your child live with daily pain, fatigue, and the many other symptoms of an Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Lowell has been on nearly every medication available, most of the time with too many side effects and no results.

Lowell’s disease has been very challenging for the family with countless hospital stays and surgeries. There are periods of time where he could not eat solid food and had to receive nutrition through a PICC line.  He also endures countless medication injections, medical tests, procedures, and doctors’ visits.

In February 2013, things took a turn for the worse when Lowell’s bowel perforated after a double balloon colonoscopy. He had to immediately have surgery and was recovering in the ICU, when just four days later a complication resulted in another surgery. In total, Lowell spent two weeks at Cedars Sinai with his mother by his side every day.  This past year, he had two more surgeries, and was hospitalized for pain, dehydration and other issues.

“Lowell is very resilient and lives his life in a way that puts his disease secondary to just being a kid. He plays sports, performs in piano recitals and is also a good student. He missed about a third of the [school] year in the past few years, but manages to complete school with really good grades. Anyone who knows Lowell is aware of his perseverance, determination, ever present sense of humor, and ability to make light of his situation. That is not to say that he does not experience sadness and dark days.  But his ability to not let his disease define him is truly an inspiration,” says Stacy.

Because of her son and the 1.6 million people living with Crohn’s Disease, Stacy has been participating in Team Challenge for the past several years, and the upcoming San Diego Triathlon will be her 11th event.

Stacy has found inspiration and says, “With Team Challenge, I have found a community, made new friends, and it has been a great way to keep fit while doing something so important.  We are raising awareness and money for the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, which is working hard every day to bring new treatments and a cure that will help Lowell and all the other amazing children and adults I have met over the years who suffer and fight these diseases every day.”

Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis are painful, medically incurable illnesses that attack the digestive system. Crohn’s Disease may attack anywhere from the mouth to the anus, while Ulcerative Colitis inflames only the large intestine (colon). Symptoms may include abdominal pain, persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, fever and weight loss. Many patients require hospitalization and surgery.  These illnesses can cause severe complications, including colon cancer in patients with long-term disease. Approximately 1.6 million American adults and children suffer from Crohn’s Disease or Ulcerative Colitis, with as many as 150,000 under the age of 18.  Most people develop the diseases between the ages of 15 and 35.

The Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America’s mission is to cure Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. The Foundation ranks third among leading health nonprofits in the percentage of expense devoted to research toward a cure, and more than 81 cents of every dollar the Foundation spends goes to mission-critical programs. The Foundation consistently meets the standards of organizations that monitor charities, including the Better Business Bureau’s Wise Giving Alliance (give.org) and the American Institute of Philanthropy (charitywatch.org). For more information, contact the Foundation at (800) 932-2423 or visit www.ccfa.org.

If you would like to help Stacy and Lowell in their fight against Crohn’s and Colitis, visit CCTeamChallenge.org to register for an event.  You can also make a donation by visiting http://online.ccfa.org/goto/StacyNapa2015.

Helpful Tax-Saving Strategies

By Ginny Grimsley

Millions of Americans face a challenge in meeting their budgets every month – not just financially, but also in their time budgets, says investment advisor, Reid Abedeen.

“Knowledge is power and time is often money, but what if you don’t have the time to empower yourself with knowledge? For many households, that often means losing out on thousands of dollars through tax deductions,” says Abedeen, a partner at Safeguard Investment Advisory Group, LLC (www.safeguardinvestment.com).

“As a family man myself, I understand what it means to work hard to provide the best possible for my wife and children. Had I not worked in the financial sector for almost two decades, I might not have understood how to best troubleshoot my tax return, I sympathize.”

Abedeen offers the following strategies that may be relevant for your family this tax season.

  • Take tax deductions for capital loss. If your capital losses exceed your capital gains, the excess can be deducted on your tax return and used to reduce other income, such as wages, up to an annual limit of $3,000, or $1,500 if you are married filing separately. However, you may deduct capital losses only on investment property, not on property held for personal use.
  • Fund your retirement to the max. You can contribute up to $5,500 to an IRA in tax-year 2014, or $6,500 if you are age 50 or older. Workers in the 25 percent tax bracket who contributed $5,500 to an IRA would save $1,375 on their 2014 tax bills. You’ll want to check your eligibility and understand the deadline for the 2014 deduction. If you make a deposit between Jan. 1 and Apr. 15, you need to tell the financial institution which year the contribution is for.
  • Advisory fees are tax-deductible. Don’t feel like spending money to save and make money? There’s a workaround. Before closing the door on the possibility, inquire with a financial expert. Most are happy to give a free initial consultation, and you don’t have to be a millionaire to make it worth your while.
  • Gift assets to children. You don’t even have to file a gift tax return on an asset that’s valued less than $12,000, which is not taxable. If the fair market value of the gifted asset is more than $12,000 per person per year, but less than $1 million, there is the requirement of filing a gift tax return, but you won’t be taxed. The gift still is not income taxable to the recipient.
  • Deduct a home-based office when used for your employer. If space in your home is used exclusively and regularly for a trade, you can count that as a deductible. Calculate the square footage of your home office and divide the area of your office by the area of your house. If the percentage is 14 percent, for example, that represents the percentage of your total home expenses that can be allocated toward the home office deduction. For further questions, consult a professional.

“You’ll want to be very vigilant regarding these details of these deductions,” Abedeen says. “For any questions, I seriously recommend consulting a professional.”

CV Firefighters Help Family After Fire

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Staff Reports

Chino – On Mar. 4, the Chino Valley Fire District responded to a residential structure fire on the 12900 block of Falcon Place in the city of Chino.

The home sustained substantial fire and smoke damage, displacing a family of eight and two dogs.

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Chino Valley Fire District firefighters subsequently received information that one of the children who lived in the home would be celebrating a birthday soon.  The Chino Valley Fire Foundation got together and purchased gift cards to local restaurants for the entire family, as well as toys for all the children in the home, including the young boy celebrating a birthday.

The family visited one of the local fire stations to receive the gifts, and thank the firefighters for their help (and for saving their two dogs).