Category Archives: The Weekly News

Walnut-Diamond Bar Annual Golf Classic

Photo Courtesy: Western Hills Country Club

Photo Courtesy: Western Hills Country Club

Staff Reports

Walnut – The Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club cordially invites you to participate in the Annual Golf Classic, to be held on Mon., Apr. 6.

Proceeds from the Golf Classic will benefit the Explorer, Reserve Deputy and Citizen Volunteer programs at the Sheriff’s Station.  These volunteers give thousands of hours of work by doing extra patrols, staffing community events, and providing additional clerical and support work inside and out of the station.

The non-profit Booster Club’s sole purpose is to provide much needed equipment and logistical support to the Volunteers, Explorers, Reserve Deputy Sheriffs and Disaster Communication Specialists.  A tax deductible donation will help purchase equipment and supplies for all of the volunteer programs to be vibrant and successful.

The Annual Golf Classic will be held at the Western Hills Country Club, 1800 Carbon Canyon Road, in Chino Hills (91709).  Registration will be held on game day between 9:30 and 11:15 a.m., with a Shotgun Start beginning at 11:30 a.m.

Sponsorships are available in Platinum, Gold, and Silver, as well as Beverage Carts, Hole in One, Goodie Bags, Closest to Pin and Tee Signs – with donations ranging from $100 to $3,000.  The cost for a Single Player to golf is $100.

For additional information, contact Sergeant Mark Saldecke at (909) 595-2264; or Booster Club Member, Gil Rivera at (909) 967-4525.

 

Chino Home Fire Causes Injury

(Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District) Traumatized, but okay, two pups are rescued from a house fire by CVFD Fire Inspector/Community Liaison Officer, Lena Lin; and Firefighter/Paramedic, Brett Underwood.

(Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District)
Traumatized, but okay, two pups are rescued from a house fire by CVFD Fire Inspector/Community Liaison Officer, Lena Lin; and Firefighter/Paramedic, Brett Underwood.

Staff Reports

Chino – On Wed., Mar. 4, Chino Valley Fire District (CVFD) firefighters responded to an outdoor fire on the 12000 block of Falcon Place in the City of Chino.

According to CVFD, the fire originated in the back patio/deck area of the single-family structure and extended into the attic. Firefighters started with an exterior attack and switched to interior once the fire spread into the attic.

One female patient in her 20s sustained burn injuries to five percent of her body. She was transported in stable condition to an area hospital.

Firefighters rescued two dogs from the structure.  The dogs were removed from the home and given oxygen.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

WV Parents Get Close-Up Look At Common Core

By Kelli Gile

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) Vejar Elementary parent, Christina Kondo, chats with kindergarteners ready to create a design with triangles.

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Vejar Elementary parent, Christina Kondo, chats with kindergarteners ready to create a design with triangles.

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District parents recently stepped into classrooms to see the new Common Core State Standards in action.

Vejar Elementary opened its doors to a delegation of 35 parent leaders and administrators on Feb. 26.

“We want to provide parents with an opportunity to see firsthand what Common Core looks like in practice and what the instructional methodology looks like and sounds like,” explained Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Members of the Coordinating Council parent leadership group represented all fourteen schools during the tour.

“We’re excited for this opportunity to show what’s happening in classrooms with the transition into Common Core,” said Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Matthew Witmer.

Teaching and learning looks different in classrooms with the implementation of Common Core.  Along with implementing the new standards, there is a shift in the way instruction is taught in classrooms, embedding 21st Century skills of collaboration, communication, critical thinking, creativity and citizenship into the curriculum.

Students have become involved with projects and collaboration, along with expressing and writing about their thinking processes in all subject areas, including mathematics.

The tour offered a snapshot into this transition.  Parents split into small groups with WVUSD principals and administrators to tour all grade levels – transitional kindergarten through 5th Grade.

“I’m very interested in seeing what Common Core looks like,” said Collegewood and Walnut Elementary parent, Lily Eibert.  “And I want to share with other parents.”

“The more we get to understand it and see the impact on students, I think the more comfortable we all are as we make this transition,” Witmer added.

During the tour, parents immediately saw visible student engagement, interactive instruction, and increased use of technology.

Groups visited each class for 15 minutes, and then debriefed outside.

“We saw kids collaborating and working in groups. It just seemed like they’re learning more and doing a lot more thinking – which is good!” said Sam Castorena from Castle Rock.

Castorena shared that he had a certain perception about the new standards when he went into the experience at Chaparral.

“And by the time we were done it had changed. I think Common Core is probably one of the biggest benefits that we’re going to see in our country for a really long time.”

Diamond Bar parent, Yara Sands, was very impressed during the visit to an 8th Grade Language arts class.

“In the past, students read a book and took a 10-question quiz – and that was it,” she noted.

During a multi-layered assignment, a class studied about the author Edgar Allan Poe, and discovered that his wife and several family members died of tuberculosis. To integrate science into the lesson, students also read an article by the American Lung Association about the disease. And finally, they wrote a letter to the famed author to describe how the women in his life could have been saved, citing evidence from the article.

“They’re digging in deeper and deeper. It was a great experience and made me even prouder to be a Chaparral Cougar!” exclaimed Sands, the school’s Community Club President.

“The conversations after the tour were amazing.  Parents gained an awareness of how literacy is incorporated across all subject areas and observed some of the real world examples and applications,” Taylor added. “I think this separates us from other districts around the country. We’re doing something that is really unique.”

 

Diamond Bar Council Recap

Photo Courtesy: City of Diamond Bar

Photo Courtesy: City of Diamond Bar

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – On Tues., Mar. 3, the hot topic of the night at the Diamond Bar City Council meeting was trees.  Diamond Bar residents came out in droves to fight for the preservation of several trees that they argued represented the beauty of the City.

The evening’s public comment section was filled with residents asking for City officials to consider different plans concerning several trees on streets between Diamond Bar Blvd. and Stonepine Drive for the Morning Canyon Rehabilitation Project.

The City, with the help of an arborist, noted that the large pine trees had grown out of control and have caused damage to the street’s asphalt and the sidewalk area. Pictures shown at the meeting illustrated that even with ongoing trimming and cutting of roots, the trees in the area were causing immense damage that could lead unsafe roadways and walking areas.

Attending residents did not give up their cause, stating that routine tree maintenance could make the streets safe again. Council member Nancy Herrera disagreed with some of the residents, citing past litigations that had been brought against the City for damages caused by unsafe roads as a result of tree root growth. She also mentioned the possibility of the tree roots damaging the streets enough to cause sinkholes. Herrera said the possibility of these safety hazards were a most compelling argument since personal safety is more important than trees.

“Lives and safety are paramount over trees,” Herrera said to the meeting attendees.

Mayor Steve Tye and the other members of the Council instead fell back to compromising on the plans. Tye made an analogy that removing the trees would be akin to cutting off a portion of one’s leg after finding a minor infection localized on a toe.

Tye’s mode of thinking was to instead reject all current bids for the rehabilitation project and bring the plans back to City officials for re-evaluation before a final approval could be given. His motion was approved 4-1 (with Herrera dissenting) and residents cheered at the possibility of keeping some of their neighborhood’s trees intact.

During the meeting, the City’s schedule of future events were announced for the Mar.10 Planning Commission meeting, the March 12 Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting, and the March 17 City Council meeting.

The Council also approved all items on the Consent Calendar concerning the minutes for the Feb. 17 Council and Dec.9 Planning Commission meetings, as well as ratification of a check dated Feb. 12 through Feb. 25 totaling $716,891.89, and the Treasurer’s statement for January 2015.

The Council then approved the only item on its consideration calendar, which was for the re-appointment all of its commissioners.

Following the final item’s approval, the Council adjourned with plans to meet on Mar. 17 at 7 p.m., in the Windmill Community Room, at 21810 Copley Drive.

22nd Annual Wine Soiree

Viva Italia!

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Chairs Nancy Lyons, Rick Rogers and Tony Torng announce that the annual Friends of the Diamond Bar Library Wine Soirée will be held on Sun., Apr. 26, at the Diamond Bar Center.

In 2012, with the support of the community through the Wine Soirée, the Friends donated $80,000 to partner with the County of Los Angeles and the City of Diamond Bar to make the new library a wonderful addition to Diamond Bar.  They could not do this without the help of the community.  By participating in the 22nd Annual Wine Soirée, you will have a great afternoon with old and new friends and know that all of the proceeds go directly to your local library and literacy in the community.

Come, bring your friends and neighbors, and join this festive and exciting afternoon with delicious food from local restaurants, great wine, music, raffles and exciting silent and live auctions.  Some of the great restaurant food hosts include Aljibani Halal Market, Buca di Beppo, Chili’s Grill and Bar, Claro’s Italian Restaurant, Coco’s Bakery, Diamond Bar Golf Course, Diamond Palace, Got Taco Party?, Graber Olive House, House of Bread, It’s A Grind, Julie’s Café, Mandarin Taste Restaurant, Mother’s Market & Kitchen, NiNi Bakery, Round Table Pizza, and The Whole Enchilada.  Visit them in person and thank them for their support of literacy in the community.

With your help, the Friends gave over $30,000 in 2014 for much needed materials, programs, books, magazines, etc., that would not have been possible without the Wine Soirée and the non-profit bookstore, Basically BOOKS.  The Friends also sponsored “Read Together Diamond Bar 2014,” that brought Librarian of Congress, David S. Mao, to Diamond Bar last October.

Those attending this great event can feel good that all proceeds from the fun they are having – the food and wines they taste, the auction items they win, and the music they enjoy – will go to improving the quality of life and learning.

The Annual Wine Soirée is an institution in Diamond Bar, and is a great way to meet new and old friends and neighbors. Tickets are $60 per person.  Advertising is also available in the beautiful annual program.  A unique souvenir wine glass and program are included with each ticket.

For tickets and program information, call (909) 861-2002, or visit www.dblibraryfriends.org.

Straight Talk With Danice

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

 

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

I have a friend who is very controlling. Every time we get together, we have to eat where she wants to eat, and see the movie that she wants to see. If I say we did it her way the last few times and make a suggestion, she gives me the silent treatment. Every time this happens, I tell myself to never go out with her again, but when she calls I cave in and do what she wants. I really do like her company most of the time. I’m weak, I know. I need help! Thanks in advance.

-Lynn

 

Dear Lynn:

You are obviously easy going, and that’s a good trait, but in this case it’s causing you to feel taken for granted. It would be a good idea to set up a fair system with your friend. Continuous feelings of being taken for granted will eventually diminish your self esteem. I think expanding your friendship base would also be a good idea.

-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.

Westmont Students In National Reading Celebration

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – Students at Pomona Unified’s Westmont Elementary School participated in a nationwide effort to “Read the Most Coast to Coast,” on Fri., Feb. 27. They were among hundreds of thousands of students across the nation who joined in this fourth annual reading celebration.

The event took place from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., and launched Read Across America, a week-long celebration of literacy in honor of Dr. Seuss.

“Read the Most Coast to Coast” is a fun-filled event that enables students at multiple grade levels to join in a shared reading challenge,” Principal Cynthia Badillo said. “Students are engaging in valuable reading practice, all while taking part in an event that joins students across the country in a collaborative effort focused on reading. We’re so proud of our students.”

“Read the Most Coast to Coast” celebrated reading with a one-day event that encouraged students to read as much as possible. In 2013-14, students set a new one-day record of 4,987,949 books read. Students also completed Accelerated Reader quizzes on the books they read.

At Westmont, as many as 380 students joined in this shared effort. They wore pajamas for the day to maximize comfort during their read-a-thon. Big buddies paired with younger students, and all students who participated received a Certificate of National Participation.

“Our students, all of whom participate in Accelerated Reader, have strengthened their reading and literacy skills, and this celebration is a great opportunity to showcase to the nation how well-read PUSD students are,” Superintendent Richard Martinez said.

The Accelerated Reader program enables teachers to manage independent reading practice. Students read books at the appropriate level and then take a quiz to show they understood what they’ve read.

Shooting at Willie White Park

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: City of Pomona

Photo Courtesy: City of Pomona

Pomona – On Sun., Mar. 1 at approximately 3:20 p.m., the Pomona Police Department received a “Victim of a Shooting” call at Willie White Park, located at 3065 Battram Street.  Upon arrival, Officers observed a male African-American victim near the playground area suffering from a gunshot wound.  Additional information from witnesses indicated that there was a possible second victim; however Officers were unable to locate him.

The victims, Jonathan Watts, 42, of Pomona; and a juvenile, 16, of Las Vegas, were in the park barbequing prior to the shooting, when suspects stopped their vehicle and proceeded to fire at the crowd indiscriminately.  The motive for this shooting may be gang related; however, this has not been confirmed.
Preliminary information received indicated that four male African-American suspects fled northbound in a gray or silver 4-door sedan. The victim, Watts, was transported by ambulance to a local hospital in critical condition, where he succumbed to his wounds and was pronounced deceased. While at the hospital, officers contacted the second victim who walked into the emergency room suffering from non life-threatening gunshot wound(s).
Anyone with information regarding this incident should call the Pomona Police Department at (909) 620-2085. For anyone willing to provide information that wishes to remain anonymous, contact “Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-8477.

Apex Lawyers, Inc.

Law doesn’t need to be as complicated as some firms make it out to be.

Apex Lawyers, Inc. is located at 21671 Gateway Center Drive, Suite 108, in Diamond Bar. They can be reached at (909) 860-0342, or visit www.apexlawinc.com for more information. See their ad on page 7.

Apex Lawyers, Inc. is located at 21671 Gateway Center Drive, Suite 108, in Diamond Bar. They can be reached at (909) 860-0342, or visit http://www.apexlawinc.com for more information. See their ad on page 7.

By Claire Lewis

Apex Lawyers, Inc. is a full service boutique law firm that strongly believes in forming relationships with its clients.  Located in the City of Diamond Bar, Apex is dedicated to providing clients with the highest quality and most cost-effective legal representation possible.

Since their first of business, Apex has provided a broad range of high quality legal services throughout the greater Los Angeles, Inland Empire, and Orange County areas.  Because of their expertise, they are able to offer legal services in the practice areas of Landlord/Tenant; Real Estate; Business and Commercial; Civil Litigation; DUI Defense; Immigration; Bankruptcy; Personal Injury; Family Law, and much more.

Apex Lawyers, Inc. is now offering a free 30 minute consultation to help determine the best course of action according to your situation

Apex believes in providing big law firm results, and maintaining strong client relationships.

Contact them today and get the answers you’re looking for.  Apex Lawyers, Inc. is located at 21671 Gateway Center Drive, Suite 108, in Diamond Bar.  They can be reached at (909) 860-0342, or visit www.apexlawinc.com for more information

Pomona’s “Project Sticker Shock”

Pomona Police Department recognizes teen volunteers who participated in a campaign to combat underage drinking

(Photo Courtesy: Pomona PD) Teen volunteers proudly display their certificates for helping the Pomona Police combat underage drinking.

(Photo Courtesy: Pomona PD)
Teen volunteers proudly display their certificates for helping the Pomona Police combat underage drinking.

Staff Reports

Pomona – On Tues., Mar. 3, the Pomona Police Department recognized the contributions made by over 20 teen volunteers during a recent campaign to combat underage drinking.

According to the Pomona Police Department, the teens participated in “Project Sticker Shock,” a nationwide event with the goal of educating adults that providing alcohol to a minor is against the law.

Each volunteer received a Certificate of Appreciation on behalf of Chief of Police, Paul Capraro.

Pomona Police Officers participated in this annual campaign in collaboration with Partnership for a Positive Pomona, the Youth and Family Master Plan Community Board and concerned residents.

If you have any questions regarding this or any other community program offered by the Pomona Police Department, contact the Crime Prevention Unit at (909) 620-2318.

Collegewood Elementary Is Turning 50!

By Kelli Gile

collegewoodWalnut – Collegewood Elementary will mark its 50th Birthday with two special events.

The award-winning school will host a kick off assembly on Fri., Mar. 20, at 10:15 a.m., with time capsule dedication, special music, VIP speakers, aerial photo, and birthday cake.

Several past principals will be on hand to celebrate the golden birthday. Student council members will share fun facts about the school’s history, and the school choir and Walnut High Band Buddies will provide music.

Immediately following the ceremony, students and parents will be invited to enjoy a hotdog lunch on the playground.

The 50th Birthday celebration will continue this spring at the Collegewood Carnival scheduled on Sat., May 16, from 3:30 to 7 p.m.  The 50s-themed event will honor the school’s original alumni, feature a “Hall of Memories” with photos and fun trivia from the past 50 years, and offer commemorative t-shirts.

Community members and alumni are invited to attend both of these events.

Collegewood Elementary is located at 20725 Collegewood Drive in Walnut.  For more information, please contact the school at (909) 598-5308.

Don’t Ever Stop Believing

By Nancy Stoops

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

We are going through some hard times right now.  There are many people losing their jobs, their homes; and budget cuts to very important programs are taking place.

I still believe things can be turned around.  I still believe that people are basically good.  I still believe anything is possible with hard work and tenacity.  I refuse to give up in believing that all great things are possible.

They say people or things have to hit rock bottom before they will get better.

Take a look around in all that is still right with our world.  Take a look around at all the good that still goes on in our our community.

Please don’t use the state of the world as a reason to stop believing.  They say all things happen for a reason.  I don’t know why people have to suffer.  I don’t know why bad things happen to good people.  I just know that I believe in the good this world still has to offer.

I also believe our efforts to be our best do get rewarded.  It may take some time to see the results of one’s hard work.  Please don’t become a victim of apathy or anger because you feel every road you take becomes a dead end.  Remind yourself that there are unlimited roads to travel down and that eventually you will discover the right one.

We must learn to be happy with the baby steps that occur when we want change to happen yesterday.  Just for a moment, think back to a time that you thought would never change or get better; yet it did get better and so did you.

I have to believe things will get better.  We need to remember why we are here and how powerful we are.  We need to remember having faith in our world and each other is very healing and can lead us to finding that the right road.

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.

OC Teacher Commits Suicide

El Dorado High School Photography Teacher Found Dead in Classroom

By Claire Lewis

(Photo Courtesy: Facebook.com) Jillian Jacobson

(Photo Courtesy: Facebook.com)
Jillian Jacobson

Placentia – Students at El Dorado High School had a devastating shock when they went to their photography class on the morning of Mon., Mar. 2.

Placentia Police Officers stated that students found the classroom door locked, and assuming their instructor, Jillian Jacobson, was late, went to the next classroom to ask that teacher to open the door. What they saw when the door was opened was a horrifying scene:  Jacobson was found in the classroom, hanging from the ceiling.

Staff quickly responded, calling 911, and getting the teacher down in hopes of reviving her.  When paramedics arrived, resuscitation attempt were made, but to no avail.  Jacobson was pronounced dead at the scene.

Detectives are reported as saying that they believed Jacobson, 31, of Anaheim, took her own life, although they were unable to find any suicide note.

Jacobson had been a teacher at El Dorado since 2008, and her expertise was not only in photography, but art education, ceramics and glassworks as well.  With a master’s degree in Educational Leadership, she was known to be an inspiring and caring instructor.

It is reported that Jacobson’s own father committed suicide just four years ago, and that she was struggling with that, although she never let it interfere with her teaching.

The school is said to be reeling from the events surrounding Jacobson’s death, and Kevin Lee, Assistant Superintendent of Placentia-Yorba Linda Unified School District, said counseling and crisis intervention teams have been made readily available to students, and would continue to be.

Hundreds of students left flowers, candles and notes for the popular teacher at the school’s gates, and at her classroom door.

If you need help, you can call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at (800) 273-8255, or visit http://www.suicidepreventionlifeline.org.  With help, comes hope.

Did You Know?

(Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia) Juliette Gordon Low (C) with two Girl Scouts.

(Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)
Juliette Gordon Low (C) with two Girl Scouts.

By K.P. Sander

The Girl Scouts of the United States of America (GSUSA) was founded on March 12, 1912 by Juliette Gordon Low.  Low, who was inspired after a meeting with Robert Baden-Power – the founder of Scouting – reportedly telephoned a cousin, saying, “I’ve got something for the girls of Savannah [Georgia], and all of America, and all the world, and we’re going to start it tonight!”

Low was correct in her projections, and the youth organization was born.  GSUSA – just like the Boy Scouts of America – strives to empower girls with the values of honesty, fairness, courage, compassion, character, sisterhood, confidence, and citizenship through activities such as camping, community service, and earning badges through the acquisition of various skills.

Wikipedia states that Low held the first official Girl Scout troop meeting in her hometown of Savannah, Georgia, and 18 girls were present.  Low had always envisioned an opportunity for girls to get out and serve their communities, and learn life skills that would help sustain them by way of self-reliance and resourcefulness.

In 1915, the organization was officially incorporated and National Headquarters were moved to New York City.  By 1920, there were nearly 70,000 members, and by 1923, there were branches in every state of the union.  Overall, more than 50 million American women have participated in the GSUSA.

Girl Scout Promise:  “On my honor, I will try to serve God and my country, to help people at all times, and to live by the Girl Scout Law.”

Girl Scout Law:  “I will do my best to be Honest and Fair, Friendly and Helpful, Considerate and Caring, Courageous and Strong, and Responsible for what I say and do, and to respect myself and others, respect authority, use resources wisely, make the world a better place, and be a sister to every Girl Scout.”

While the Girl Scouts are known far and wide for their cookie sales, their promises are filled with sage advice for everyone to live by.

Spring Training

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

Baseball was a big deal when I was growing up in Arizona.  Since we did not have a major league baseball team in Phoenix at that time, it was exciting when several major league teams came to town in March for Spring Training.

I enjoyed playing baseball.  When I was very young, we actually played “sand lot” games in a vacant lot near our home.  I also played on organized Little League teams as I grew up, and I made the All-Star team a couple of times.

When I got into high school I enjoyed playing baseball, too.  My position was short stop.  That was where all the action was.  It was my job to stop those hard hit ground balls and throw runners out at first base.  As short stop, I also assisted with double plays and tagging runners out as they tried to steal second base.  I also helped relay throws from the outfield and tried to stop base runners at home plate.

The other part of playing baseball was hitting.  I don’t remember what my batting average was, but I know I didn’t set any records.

Years later, I had the opportunity to coach some Little League teams that my son played on.  Coaching is an important part of every team sport.

I do know that I enjoyed playing baseball.  It is a team sport where everyone has an important role to play.  You learn to work together and value each person’s contribution to the team.

Each team has a coach who helps players to develop their skills both on the field and in the batter’s box.

I have heard that some parents get a little crazy watching their kids participate in team sports.  I hope you will exercise restraint and encourage your kids to participate in a team sport.  They will enjoy it, and you will too!

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

CH Traffic Fatality in Carbon Canyon

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Thurs., Feb. 26, at approximately 6:49 p.m., a red Saturn Ion driven by James Coffin was traveling southbound on Carbon Canyon Road approaching Canyon Hills Road. At the same time, a grey Honda Civic was being driven northbound on Carbon Canyon Road by the victim, Tammy Seagraves.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, as the vehicles approached each other, Coffin crossed over the center double yellow line and struck Seagraves head on. Seagraves was transported from the scene and succumbed to her injuries after arrival at Chino Hills Medical Center.

Coffin was ejected from his vehicle and was transported to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center with non-life threatening injuries.

Alcohol is believed to be a factor in this collision and any witnesses are urged to contact Deputy P. Ortiz or Deputy N. Clark with the SBSD’s Region I MAIT team at (909) 387-3545

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 03.07.15

2015-Mar07-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  2015-Mar07-Weekly-WEB to access the complete Weekly News for the Mar. 7 issue in PDF format.

Walnut HS Alum Is “Idol” Top 16

By Kelli Gile

(Photo Courtesy: Fox Broadcasting Company) Diamond Bar resident and “American Idol” finalist, Adanna Duru.

(Photo Courtesy: Fox Broadcasting Company) Diamond Bar resident and “American Idol” finalist, Adanna Duru.

Walnut – Diamond Bar resident, Adanna Duru, has been named a finalist on the current season of “American Idol.”  The show revealed its Top 24 contestants last week and the roster included the talented Walnut High 2014 alumna. On Thursday’s episode, she was announced as Top 16!

Duru wowed “Idol” judges with her performance of Lady Gaga’s, “You and I” during her San Francisco audition. Duru even received a Tweet from pop star, Jennifer Lopez, saying, “Congratulations, you killed it!”

The 18-year old teen kept her momentum during Hollywood Week and the House of Blues performances.

Duru began singing at age 4, and decided at age 9 that she would be on “Idol” one day. She plays guitar and piano, and wrote her first song when she was 10.

Duru performed in musicals at Suzanne Middle School, starring as the Duchess in Alice in Wonderland, and an Oompa Loompa in Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. For three years, she was a member of the Walnut High School Choir. During her sophomore year, Duru also competed on Season Three of “The Voice.”

On the second night of Top 24 Week, Feb. 26, Duru sang, “Rather Be,” and Hollywood.com said her performance was “pretty amazing, actually.”

On Thursday night’s episode, Mar. 5, Harry Connick, Jr. raved about Duru’s rendition of Lionel Richie’s, “Hello” saying, “I give you an A+ for singing those lyrics like you did.”

At press time, four of the gentlemen and four of the women in the Top 24 had been voted off, leaving Duru in the Top 16! Keep voting to help keep this hometown girl on the show!

There are five ways to vote and you can vote up to 100 times!

Online voting ends at 9 a.m. PST the day after performances. Phone lines are open for calls and texts up to 2 hours after the show.

“American Idol” Season 14 airs Wednesdays and Thursdays at 8 p.m. on FOX.

Good luck, Adanna!

(This article has been modified to reflect the most recent results of the show upon going to press.)

High Cholesterol At 23

By Sarah Sanchez

There’s always a few days in your life that you’ll never forget. For me, it was when I was visiting my doctor, just before Thanksgiving, and she walked in and told me that my bad cholesterol was twice as high as it should be. The doctor said if I didn’t get my cholesterol down as soon as possible, I was at risk for a heart attack, diabetes, and infertility. That last one hit me hard, considering I just got married and children is all we ever talk about. I remember staring at her, trying to process the information I was just given; trying to hold back tears that suddenly filled my eyes. I couldn’t believe it. There was a possibility I couldn’t have kids, and I had high cholesterol at 23.

The doctor told me to change my eating habits, and to stay away from carbohydrates, sugar, and alcohol.  She prescribed medication, and sent me on my way. I walked out of the doctor’s office shocked and confused, with no idea what to do next. I cried a lot that week. I went into a bit of depression after imagining that I might not be able to give my husband a child because of my eating habits. I replayed the conversation in my head, confused on how this happened. My husband and I barely ate out because of finances, I cooked chicken or turkey meat almost every day, I didn’t drink soda or coffee, and I rarely drank alcohol. I just didn’t get it.

That following Sunday, my husband and I went to our couple’s small group and I completely broke down. Surrounded by people I had just barely met, I held my husband’s hand, told them everything, and I cried. I let it out. And I’ll be honest, I felt better. They were so supportive, offering recipes, a group diet, and prayer. I couldn’t believe the love I got from them, strangers that suddenly became my support group in a time of need.

After my breakdown, I just snapped out of my depression. I was motivated. There was no way my eating habits were going to be the reason I couldn’t have kids. My mind was set: something had to change.

With love and support from my husband, I spent the next three months changing my lifestyle. I monitored everything I ate and developed an exercise routine. I went on a protein shake diet for the first two weeks, and then maintained my weight by eating smaller portions of strictly healthy food. I also downloaded the “My Fitness Pal” app, which helped me realize what’s actually in the food I was eating.

It was tough to change everything at first. I felt ridiculous reading labels at Trader Joes and then looking up to see an 80-year-old man doing the same thing right next to me. But I stuck it out, and I’m happy to say that four months later, I’m down 12 pounds, I’m off medication, and my cholesterol is normal.

I truly believe that everything happens for a reason. This experience helped me to learn how to use low-fat alternatives, realize what foods are actually bad for me, and helped me build a closer relationship with my husband, family, and friends. My family was inspired to go to the doctor for routine checkups, too.

I think the most important outcome out of this experience was that I was able to feel better about myself. I’ve had low self-esteem since I was very young, and on every birthday since I was about 13-years old, I wished I was “skinny” when I blew out the candles. But every year, I never did anything about it. Having high cholesterol forced me to lose weight, and now that I have, I feel better where I am. This past year was the first birthday that I didn’t wish to be “skinny” because for once in my life, I felt comfortable with the weight I was at.

In the end, I realized having high cholesterol went from being devastating news, to being the best thing that ever happened to me. God always has a bigger plan for us and sometimes we need to stop looking at the problem that’s happening in the moment, and look toward the positive outcome that it can have in the future. So even though I’d never thought I’d say this, I’m thankful to have had high cholesterol at 23.

Community Events

Staff Reports

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Free Tax Return Services

When:  Mar. 7, 14, 21; 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.

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.

First Friday Food Trucks

When:  Mar. 6; 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 DairyAire 5K & Fun Run

When:  Sat., Mar. 7

Where:  Ruben S. Ayala Park, 5575 Edison Ave., Chino

Details:  This community event helps raise funds for the Chino Youth Museum.  Register before March 1: 5K $30/Fun Run $10; register on or after March 2: 5K $35/Fun Run $15.  Pre-register today at www.dairyaire5k.racewire.com. USATF Certified 5K Course.

Pomona Police Host Blood Drive

When:  Wed., March 11, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Where: Pomona Civic Center Plaza

Details:  The blood drive is in honor of fallen SWAT Officer Shaun Diamond and sponsored by Huntington Hospital.  Donors must be in good health and 18 years or older.  Every blood donation can save up to two lives.

Contact:  To make an appointment, visit www.workforcehealth.com/passcode:shaundiamond. For questions call (626) 676-6881.

Kids’ Night Out

When:  Mar. 21; 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.

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

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