Category Archives: The Weekly News

Attitude Is Everything

By Nancy Stoops

Do you see a half filled glass as half empty or as half full?  Do you tend to see what’s wrong with your life or do you focus on what is right with your life?  Would you consider yourself a negative person or a positive person?  Do you wake up everyday being happy do be alive and hopeful about a new day or do you dread getting up?

The way that you have answered the above questions is probably also the way that you live your life and the way you view your life.  I believe having a positive attitude is foundational in being a successful human being.  Being positive, is essential to everything good that comes with this life.  I think it all starts by being positive about who you are and about behaving in a manner that makes you proud of whom you are.  Generally, if you like who you are and are a good person, people will like you as well.  Also, if you like who you are, you will want only the best for yourself.  This will cause you to go to college; get a good job, find a good mate and believe that you can make your dreams comes true.

On the other hand, being negative only prevents you from following your dreams.  Being negative also causes a lot of self doubt and really gets in the way of accomplishments.  Learn to look at the good in your life and at what you have done right so far.  Learn from your mistakes but don’t focus on them, otherwise your life will feel like one big mistake.  Look at all that you already have going right for you and learn to build on the positive and if you do, more positive will come to you!!!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909)2290727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

 

5 Transient Women Sexually Assaulted: Suspect Arrested

By Anthony Saude

Pomona – A man who is suspected of sexually assaulting and raping five transient women in the City of Pomona was arrested earlier this week by Pomona Police Detectives. David Tymel Cummings is the 39-year-old transient man who was  arrested for two counts of 261(a)(2) PC- Rape by Force or Fear and three counts of 243.4 PC- Sexual Assault and Battery.

The first of the five incidents showed up on the Police Departments radar in August of 2017. A woman filed a report with the Police Department in which she stated that she had been sexually assaulted. She gave the police a description of the suspect. The next few months four more women came forward with a very similar story and description of suspect. Police believe that all five women had been in or around the Pomona Armory or one of the nearby areas where the incidents had taken place.

A Crime Analyst was able to assist the Pomona Police Department in identifying the suspect when they noticed all five reports filed by the women had a similar suspect description. Upon further investigation Pomona Police Detectives and Officers were able to locate and arrest Cummings without incident. Cummings was booked into the Pomona City Jail.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Pomona Police Department at 909-620-2085. If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477).

Board Member Files Claim Against CVUSD

By Anthony Saude

Chino– Some Don Lugo parents say they are satisfied with the way the school and the district handled investigations into sexual hazing incidents last year that involved freshmen on the football team. In Contrast to the statements made by Chino Valley school board member Irene Hernandez-Blair.

The parents speaking at a school board meeting said the school had notified them about the alleged incidents and student interviews were conducted by the district and the Chino Police Department.

Some of those parents also stated that the school offered counseling services to their sons but that their boys did not feel victimized in any way during the incidents. It is alleged the incidents took place over a period of several days in November 2017.

Four community members who do not have children attending Don Lugo spoke in support of Mrs. Blair.

Mrs. Blair announced she could no longer stay quiet about the “egregious acts” and this week told her story to NBC News in Los Angeles. The news station broadcast a video of an incident that appeared to show a student being held down by other students.

The students in the video were clothed and their faces were blurred.

Mrs. Blair told the media that “flesh to flesh contact” had also occurred.

On June 12, Blair filed a claim against the school district on behalf of her son, a member of the freshman football team last year.

The claim alleges sexual assault, humiliation, emotional distress and sexual harassment.

Sexual assault, by definition, places a person in fear of imminent sexual contact or sexual battery.

Sexual battery, on the other hand, is the physical sex act. Mr. Prince, Mrs. Blair’s attorney declined to answer if any physical contact was alleged in the claim.  It was reported that he said In this case there was not intercourse but there were clear victims and perpetrators.

After the investigations by the district it was recommended by the district’s human resources department that head football coach Greg Gano be terminated immediately.

At public meeting held on a February 15, the Don Lugo football community convinced the board to keep the coach. Mrs. Blair recused herself because of a possible conflict of interest.

Mr. Prince, Blair’s attorney said that parents were led to believe that Mrs. Blair was critical of the coach because her son was not given sufficient playing time in games and that the district allowed that perception to take root.

Their claim is that this was not being handled at all and was being swept under the rug and a false narrative was being perpetrated by the district. Mr. Prince also filed a claim June 12 on behalf of Corina Talamantes and her son, another Don Lugo student and a member of the freshman football team last year. The claim alleges sexual assault, humiliation, emotional distress, and sexual harassment.

The claims submitted by Mrs. Blair and Mrs. Talamantes seek an unspecified amount in damages and settlement demands.

The board rejected the claims and referred them to the district’s insurance carrier.

 

Diamond Bar Restaurant Closed By Health Board

By Anthony Saude

Diamond Bar – Cockroach, dirt and debris found near hanging ducks at Diamond Bar restaurant, and other health inspections in the San Gabriel Valley

Not only did a health inspector find numerous live and dead cockroaches during a visit to a Chinese restaurant in Diamond Bar, she also discovered filthy conditions and shut it down.

Facilities are graded with a number and letter score much like school report cards.

When a Los Angeles food facility is temporarily closed for a cockroach, rodent, or fly infestation, sewage problems, or for not having hot water, the facility loses seven points in addition to the four points deducted for major health violations. At the point of discovery of two major health hazards occurring concurrently, the facility loses an additional three points in its inspection score. Results like those will usually result in loss of passing grades (perhaps from A to B or A to C).

In contrast to the County of Los Angles Public Health department, the Pasadena health agency does not issue grades but rather one of three placards to each establishment: “Pass,” “Conditional Pass,” or “Closed.” The city does deduct points the same way the county does, but if an inspector determines a closure is warranted, the facility loses 26 points automatically.

The inspector, employed at the Los Angeles County Public Health Department paid a visit to Jade House Seafood & BBQ on June 18. She noted on a report filed with the agency that there was cockroach infestation as well as several other health code violations. The duck roasting station itself was noted for having:

One adult cockroach (living)

A heavy build up of dirt and debris on the shelf and cooking equipment

An employee’s hot beverage

There was also a lot of dust, debris and dirt on the fan being used to cool the hanging ducks. The restaurant received a score of 76 and was shut down. As of publication, it had not been allowed to reopen.

Slippery Stickers

By Mark Hopper

Recently I took one of my grandchildren to one of my favorite fast food restaurants.  She loves the french fries and I love the burgers.  Yummm!

 

The nice lady at the cash register took our order and then handed a page of stickers to my granddaughter.  This small page of stickers keeps the younger customers busy while the burger and fries are being prepared.

 

However, this small page of stickers was actually slippery.  I know that sticky and slippery are opposites, but this page of stickers kept getting away from us.  It started when we stopped at the Ketchup dispenser to fill up some small cups with Ketchup to use on our French fries.

 

After we sat down at a table, I noticed that the page of stickers was missing.  Where did it go?  It seemed like it had just slipped out of her hands. I retraced our steps and discovered we had left it by the Ketchup dispenser.

 

We really did enjoy my hamburger and her french fries.  They were a tasty treat.  But, as we got up to go back to our car, I noticed that the stickers were missing again.  Where did they go this time?  I glanced back to where we were sitting and saw them on the floor under our table.  I was able to go back and rescue our slippery stickers again.

 

When we got home, my granddaughter proudly showed my wife her sticker page.  We encouraged her to take them home and show them to her parents.   When our daughter picked up our granddaughter, I made sure that the stickers got into their car.

 

However, the next day, the slippery stickers were missing again.  My granddaughter thought she had left the stickers at our house, but I was sure I put them in their car.  Later in the day, our daughter called to say that the stickers were found on the floor at their house.  They really were slippery stickers!

 

I don’t know what slips through your fingers or what you tend to misplace, but I think there are a lot of “slippery” things in each of our lives. Some people misplace their cell phones.  Other people can never find their car keys.  My wife seems to frequently misplace her glasses. All things that we use and take for granted.

 

I’m guilty of the same thing.  I often can’t find my wallet or appointment book.  I can’t remember where I put them down and I have trouble finding them, too!  They are almost as slippery as those stickers!

 

There is an account in the Bible where an axe slips out of the hands of a worker and sinks to the bottom of a stream.  The axe was borrowed and the borrower was responsible to return the item to its owner.  You would be surprised at how God restores the slippery axe to the one who borrowed it in Second Kings 6:1-7.

 

My suggestion is that you keep a close eye and a tight grip on those things that really are valuable.  Hold your loved ones tight and keep your friends close.  Don’t let them slip out of your life.  They will be glad you did and you will too.

 

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

 

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 07/07/18

The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire.Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: WEB.2018-7-7.WeeklyNews

Pork Luau Burgers

with Pineapple Relish and Green Salad

 

By Hello Fresh

 

Cooking Time: 35 mins

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 740 Calories

Ingredients:

 

  • Garlic- 2 tsp
  • Cilantro- 1/4 oz
  • Red Onion- 1
  • Pineapple- 8 oz
  • Ground Pork- 20 oz
  • Soy Sauce- 2 tbsp
  • Honey- .32 oz
  • Persian Cucumbers- 2
  • Brioche Buns- 4
  • Spring Mix Lettuce- 4 oz
  • White Wine Vinegar- 2 tsp
  • Mayonnaise- 4 tbsp

 

 

1  PREHEAT AND PREP.    Wash and dry all produce. Preheat toaster oven or oven to 400 degrees. Mince or grate garlic until you have 2 tsp (you may not use all). Chop cilantro. Halve, peel, and thinly slice onion. Drain pineapple.

 

2  SHAPE PORK PATTIES.    In a large bowl, mix together pork, cilantro, garlic, soy sauce, and honey. Shape into four ¾-inch-thick patties. Season with salt and pepper.

 

3 MAKE RELISH      Heat a large drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook, tossing, until softened, 3-4 minutes. Toss pineapple into pan and cook until lightly browned, 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from pan and set aside.

 

4  COOK PATTIES       Heat a large drizzle of olive oil in same pan over medium-high heat. Add patties to pan and cook until browned on bottom, 4-5 minutes. Flip, cover pan, and cook on other side until no longer pink in center, 3-4 minutes more.

 

5  TOSS SALAD AND TOAST BUNS.     Meanwhile, thinly slice cucumbers. Split buns in half and toast in toaster oven or oven until golden brown, 3-5 minutes. (TIP: Place the buns on a baking sheet if toasting them in the oven.) In another large bowl, toss lettuce, cucumbers, 2 tsp vinegar (we sent more), and a large drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.

 

6  ASSEMBLE AND SERVE.    Spread buns with mayonnaise, then fill with patties, relish, and a small amount of salad. Divide between plates and serve with remaining salad on the side.

The Winner of Your Personal Revolution

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

Do you ever feel like you just need to make a huge change?  Are you afraid and so you stay stuck because this is what you have always done?  Maybe it’s time to have a personal revolution and really shake things up.  I think it starts by making a list of what you need to keep about you and what you really need to finally let go of.  It’s time to revolt and personally attack those demons and the lies that hold you back from being a great and powerful you.

I know it sounds crazy to stage a revolution against yourself or against the pieces you are sick and tired of.  I don’t know any other way to move forward if you are really stuck.  Fight hard and fight smart and do your interpersonal work.  What better day than today to claim the rights to you.  Stop letting others hold you hostage to being a lesser version of you.  Today is the day you take control of yourself and of your mind.  Has somebody make you doubt yourself, today is the day to fix that.  Today is the day you decide that you are proud of yourself and that you’ll will fight to become the best you can be.   I know you can win that internal battle and you can revolt against all the lies.

You owe yourself this revolution and I know you can win.  The past is over, the future is uncertain but the present is a gift that can help us unwrap our true inner being.  This is an inner being we can be proud and we can feel confident like never before.  This newly found confidence can help us see anything is possible and now there are no limits for us!!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909)229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy atnancyjstoops@verizon.net.  You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

 

Must-Know Health Tips for Summer Vacation

By StatePoint

More than half of Americans are planning to take a vacation this summer, according to a Bankrate survey. While these excursions are meant to be fun and relaxing, road trips and long flights can lead to health risks that you know about, like jet lag, and some you may not be familiar with, such as leg swelling and deep vein thrombosis (DVT). Experts advise travelers to take precautions for a healthy travel experience.

“Most people are familiar with jet lag, but even if you’re sitting in a car for a long time, you’re at risk for other conditions like edema, which can cause painful leg swelling,” says nationally renowned natural health physician and best-selling author, Dr. Fred Pescatore. “Luckily, there are simple steps you can take to avoid these issues.”

For a healthy, relaxing vacation, Dr. Pescatore is sharing his favorite travel tips.

Power Nap

Flying or driving to a new time zone can throw off your internal clock, causing jet lag and making it harder to sleep.

“Take 15 to 20-minute power naps if you’re heading to a different time zone. Quick naps when your body naturally feels tired offers you some rest, but won’t leave you wide awake at bedtime,” says Dr. Pescatore.

Take Fitness Breaks

Cramped up in a car or plane for long periods of time can cause swelling and fluid accumulation in the lower legs, known as edema, which is a major risk factor for developing a potentially life-threatening blood clot known as Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT).

Each year, as many as 900,000 Americans are affected by DVT, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and studies published in Minerva Medica show that 10 percent of long-haul air passengers are at risk. Dr. Pescatore recommends taking frequent breaks to walk around and stretch in order to avoid these conditions. At rest stops, take a walk and when flying, stand up and stretch in the aisle when possible.

Try a Natural Supplement

A new peer-reviewed clinical study shows that supplementing with the natural super-antioxidant, Pycnogenol (pronounced pic-noj-en-all), can help reduce edema and relieve jet lag symptoms during long-haul travel.

“This research is exciting news for those looking for a safe, effective healthy travel option,” Dr. Pescatore says.

Pycnogenol is one of the most researched ingredients on the market, with decades of studies showing its benefits for a variety of health applications. It’s available in more than 700 dietary supplements, multi-vitamins and health products worldwide. For more information, visit pycnogenol.com.

As you prepare for your summer travel, remember these tips for a healthy vacation.

History 101

Photo Credit: Wikimedia Commons

July 7, 1930: Building of Hoover Dam Begins

By History.com

On this day in 1930, construction of the Hoover Dam begins. Over the next five years, a total of 21,000 men would work ceaselessly to produce what would be the largest dam of its time, as well as one of the largest manmade structures in the world.

Although the dam would take only five years to build, its construction was nearly 30 years in the making. Arthur Powell Davis, an engineer from the Bureau of Reclamation, originally had his vision for the Hoover Dam back in 1902, and his engineering report on the topic became the guiding document when plans were finally made to begin the dam in 1922.

Herbert Hoover, the 31st president of the United States and a committed conservationist, played a crucial role in making Davis’ vision a reality. As secretary of commerce in 1921, Hoover devoted himself to the erection of a high dam in Boulder Canyon, Colorado. The dam would provide essential flood control, which would prevent damage to downstream farming communities that suffered each year when snow from the Rocky Mountains melted and joined the Colorado River. Further, the dam would allow the expansion of irrigated farming in the desert, and would provide a dependable supply of water for Los Angeles and other southern California communities.

Even with Hoover’s exuberant backing and a regional consensus around the need to build the dam, Congressional approval and individual state cooperation were slow in coming. For many years, water rights had been a source of contention among the western states that had claims on the Colorado River. To address this issue, Hoover negotiated the Colorado River Compact, which broke the river basin into two regions with the water divided between them. Hoover then had to introduce and re-introduce the bill to build the dam several times over the next few years before the House and Senate finally approved the bill in 1928.

In 1929, Hoover, now president, signed the Colorado River Compact into law, claiming it was “the most extensive action ever taken by a group of states under the provisions of the Constitution permitting compacts between states.”

Once preparations were made, the Hoover Dam’s construction sprinted forward: The contractors finished their work two years ahead of schedule and millions of dollars under budget. Today, the Hoover Dam is the second highest dam in the country and the 18th highest in the world. It generates enough energy each year to serve over a million people, and stands, in Hoover Dam artist Oskar Hansen’s words, as “a monument to collective genius exerting itself in community efforts around a common need or ideal.”

 

What You Need to Know Before Firing up the Grill

By StatePoint

Summer is officially here and with seven in 10 U.S. adults owning a grill or smoker, according to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association, for many, that means it’s time to cook up mouth-watering dishes and invite friends and family over for a barbeque.

 

But be careful. Grill fires are all too common. Before starting up the grill, make sure that you’ve taken the following precautions to keep the place you call home safe.

 

  • Landlord Knows Best. If you’re a renter, before you even consider grilling, check with your landlord to see if it’s allowed. Oftentimes apartments don’t allow gas grills on balconies due to state fire codes. Even the 39 percent of renters living in single-family homes may be prevented from grilling if there are neighbors living close by or there isn’t a patio or outdoor space. Know the rules. If you’re not allowed to have a gas grill, consider alternatives like an electric grill or a community grill in a common area.

 

  • Too Hot to Handle. Grill fires can start in a number of ways, including dirty grills, grilling too close to something that could catch fire and leaving the grill unattended. To prevent a fire, clean the grill after each use. Always keep it a safe distance from your building (at least 10 feet) and away from trees. Place the grill on a solid surface that can’t burn, such as concrete or asphalt. And never walk away from the grill while cooking, as a spark or small flame can easily spread.

 

  • Safety First. Keep safe by getting equipped with tools and knowledge. Use long-handled spatulas, wear flame-resistant mitts and never wear loose-fitting clothes near an open flame. If you’re using a gas grill throughout summer, check it periodically for leaks. And keep baking soda or a small fire extinguisher nearby, since attempting to put out a fire with water will only cause the flames to flare up. Also, remind everyone of that life-saving rhyme “stop, drop and roll” to remember what to do if you catch on fire.

 

  • Have the Right Insurance. As a homeowner or renter, even if you take precautions, accidents do happen, so make sure you’re properly covered for the summer grilling season and beyond. According to Erie Insurance, a standard renters insurance policy can help cover you if you’re responsible for causing injuries or damaging other people’s property. No one wants to think about the worst-case scenario, especially when you’re planning a fun barbeque, but being protected is a way to give your family peace of mind. Plus, you can’t be too sure your neighbors are practicing safe grilling habits. Renters insurance can help protect you from costs resulting from their negligence, too.

 

This summer, kick back and enjoy your home’s outdoor spaces. Just be sure any grilling you do is done safely.

 

Strong Feather

By Mark Hopper

I have probably written about this in the past, but I was reminded of it again when my wife and I were in Arizona recently.

 

My wife and I grew up in the Phoenix area in the 1950’s and 1960’s.  We actually met during our freshman year at Scottsdale High School.  We have many fond memories of Arizona and it is nice to go back to visit family members and reconnect with old friends.

 

Early one morning, I went for a walk along some green belts that meander through the neighborhood where we were staying.  These tree lined concrete trails are perfect for bicycles and casual walkers.

 

These paths are peaceful and relaxing teeming with birds and other wildlife as they enjoy these shady areas too.  The desert Doves sing in the early morning and there are usually cotton tail rabbits enjoying the abundant grass.

 

Other people get up early to enjoy the cooler morning air and take their pets for a walk before it gets too hot.  Daytime temperatures were over 100 degrees when we were in Arizona. One day the temperature reached 109!

 

My favorite sight to see on my early morning walks was the Gamble Quail.  They are very graceful with their slim size and red top knot on their head.  One morning, I saw a mommy Quail escorting 2-3 small babies as they crossed the path in front of me. I think they were looking for breakfast.  Those little ones looked so tiny but they kept up with their siblings as their mother watched over them.

 

One of the reasons I love the desert Quail is because my father wrote a book about a family of Quail in Scottsdale.  When he jogged along the canal bank years ago, he observed the activity of a covey of Quail near a horse corral.  The Quail were always busy in the early morning and early evening, but they sought shade and shelter from the hot desert sun during mid-day.

 

His book is titled, “Strong Feather – The story of the last Covey in Indian Bend Wash”. Strong Feather is a young Quail who goes from childhood games to leading the covey to safety as urban sprawl threatens his family’s survival.  Children and adults enjoy the adventures of Strong Feather and his fellow Quail.

 

Radio personality Paul Harvey actually featured the book at the end of one of his daily broadcasts. Paul Harvey shared that when he was in the 3rd grade, his teacher read a few pages from a good book at the end of every school day.  He liked “Strong Feather” so much that he said, “Every third-grade teacher must share this book with her last class of the day”. I agree!

 

Whenever my wife and I see a Quail, we think of my dad.  He worked as a writer for several newspapers, UPI and a large bank in Phoenix.  His typing skills transferred well into being a telegraph operator in World War Two. He was a writer at heart. Maybe that is why I am still writing today. It must be in our family’s DNA!

 

Next time you see a Quail in your travels, I hope it will put a smile on your face.  If you need a good book to read to your children, you might look on line or at your local library for a copy of “Strong Feather” by Richard Hopper.  You will be glad you did and I will too!

 

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

Diamond Bar, CA 91765

Sunday services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

 

Autism MOM

By Melody Kraemer

Living with autism isn’t just part of my life. It’s my world. I don’t think much about it, it’ just what I do. I am a mother of 2 autistic boys.  I sometimes forget that people are not aware of what autism is. I have been asked many questions throughout the years regarding “autism.”

I would like to share the most asked questions and statements I have experienced over the years. These are just a the most asked out of the many questions I have been asked.

  1. Will they outgrow it?

Answer: No. But I can do everything in my power to help them to have a fulfilling life.

  1. Why is he flapping/spinning like that, how much sugar have you given him today?

Answer: Not much, he has autism, its part of his autism. He’s expressing himself.

  1. My sister’s nephew’s cousin has a boy with autism, so I know all about autism and what you are going through.

Answer: No, you really don’t because every autistic child is unique just like all children are unique.

  1. Are you sure he has autism, he looks normal?

Answer: What is normal? Is he supposed to have a tail?

  1. How did you know he had autism?

Answer: The Doctor told me

What made you take him to the Doctors in the first place?

Answer: Concerns. His nonverbal, nonsocial behavior, sensitivity to noise, food, and touch.

  1. Did you know before he was born that he had autism?

Answer: No, autism was not detected in the womb.

  1. What do you think happened that caused him to have autism?

Answer: I can’t answer that, nobody really can. I don’t know. According to austimspeaks.org. 1 out of 59 kids has autism.

  1. Is autism contagious?

Answer: No, it’s not. Your child will not catch autism from my child.

  1. Does he go to a special school for kids like him?

Answer: He’s in a public school, in the autism program.

  1. Where does the autism come from? Does it run in the family?

Answer: No, it does not run in our family.

This is just a handful of the questions an autism parent will be asked at least one time if not many times. I try and smile through the many questions I get on a daily basis. All I hope for is my children to be accepted and others to have the understanding and awareness of autism. If others become more aware of autism these questions would get asked less and less.

Melody is a mother, wife and small business owner. You can find her and community events on her online newsletters: Macaroni Kid Eastvale and Riverside.

Harkins Alcohol Sales Being Appealed

Photo: ibetar.info
Two members of the Chino Hills city council, Art Bennett and Ray Marquez are not on board with the decision. They have asked for an appeal of the planning commission’s decision to allow the sale of beer and wine at Harkins Theatre

By Anthony Saude

Chino Hills– The Chino Hills planning commission approved a conditional use permit, earlier this month that would allow alcohol sales in a 20-seat bar area located in the lobby that will replace the arcade games.

Two members of the Chino Hills city council, Art Bennett and Ray Marquez are not on board with the decision. They have asked for an appeal of the planning commission’s decision to allow the sale of beer and wine at Harkins Theatre on Chino Avenue at the 71 Freeway.

The appeal hearing will take place during an in council chambers session at the next council meeting.

Beer and wine are classified as fermented beverages and not liquor. It was previously reported that Harkins was planning to sell liquor but have changed their tune and assure the Council that only beer and wine will be served.

A Harkins representative informed the commission that only beer and wine would be served, even though the conditional use permit stated liquor would also be served, according to community development director Joann Lombardo

Councilman Bennett said in a statement that he is concerned that drinking will take place in a setting where small children may be in the audience.

He says he isn’t against drinking but like some he feels it’s inappropriate for families going into a theater where beer and wine sales are taking place.

Patrons would be allowed to take their alcoholic drinks into the movie theaters but there is two-drink maximum allowed for safety purposes.

Harkins representative Alex Verkruijsse told the commission that there will be trained management staff monitoring the auditoriums in 30 minute intervals. Extra security will be provided on the weekends by guards that have law enforcement backgrounds.

The commission has been informed that the food menu will be expanded to include pizza, hot dogs, chicken tenders, and other food items.

 

 

Affordability Crisis Looming?

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

As the real estate market continues to chug along with a strong price trend increase, the question of affordability is at the forefront of many discussions. The obvious center of discussion is the real estate industry itself, including real estate agents, mortgage originators or loan agents, escrow companies, title companies, and other affiliated service companies whose businesses are directly tied in to the real estate market.  It is a discussion that is central to the issues of housing the lower income households as well as the homeless throughout the state of California.

The California Association of Realtors (C.A.R.) reported out in May the Housing Affordability Index (HAI) for the first quarter of 2018.  It reported that there was a slight increase in affordability, with the Housing Affordability Index (HAI) rate statewide  increasing from 29% to 31%.  The HAI of 31% means that thirty-one percent of the California households could afford to purchase the $538,640 median-priced home (the median price being the price in which one-half of the homes sold for less and one-half of them sold for more).

The analysis assumes a down payment of 20%, which would be, for the median-priced home in California in the first quarter of 2018, approximately $108,000.00. The analysis also determined that the annual household income needed to be at least $111,500.00 in order to make the monthly payments of $2,790.00, which would include principal, interest, and taxes on a 30 year mortgage at approximately 4.45%.

Utilizing the same assumptions for the Diamond Bar real estate market, the numbers are striking in respect to the low affordability index of the median priced home in Diamond Bar.  The first quarter of 2018 saw the Median Sales Price (MSP) of the Single Family Detached Housing Residence (SFDHR or SFR) at $735,000.00.  The monthly payments of approximately $3,800.00 would require a monthly household income of $12,667.00, or $152,000.00 annual income.  Less than 16% of California households earn sufficient income to qualify for the Median Sales Price home in Diamond Bar.  According to Bruce Norris, an expert in the real estate investment world of Southern California, any time affordability falls below 20% for a housing market it can be one of the indicators of a housing market weakness. Is this an indication of a slowing of price appreciation in Diamond Bar? This is a developing story…stay tuned.

This article was written by Nef Cortez who is a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca BRE # 00560181, licensed since 1976. He can be reached for more information via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com, or website http://www.nefcortez.com. Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.

Suzanne MS Students Join Special Olympics

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Blue Ribbon Day! Four Suzanne Middle School student-athletes participated in the Special Olympics Southern California held May 18 at John Muir High in Pasadena.

By Kelli Gile 

WALNUT – Four Suzanne Middle School student-athletes participated in the Special Olympics Southern California held May 18 at John Muir High in Pasadena.

 

Several months before the games, the children began training with adapted physical education (APE) teacher Greg Sasaki.

 

“Preparing is its own challenge,” said special education teacher Melanie Kobayashi.

 

The children had to learn that the very loud sound from the starter pistol was the cue to begin racing.

 

“Loud sounds can be very disturbing to people with autism and the students had to get accustomed to that and react appropriately,” she explained.

 

The racers learned how to take their place at the starter line and run in the lane, focusing on themselves, not the stranger competing next to them, all the way to the finish line.

 

And they had to do it with hundreds of unfamiliar faces around them in a place they had never been before.

 

All four students participated in either a 25-meter walk or run earning the highest reward – a 1st Place blue ribbon.

 

They also received green participation ribbons in the softball throw event.

 

To prepare for the ball throw, they had to learn to step and throw overhand from behind the line.

 

“They were amazing!” Kobayashi shared.

 

“It was a lot of work and they made us very proud!”

 

Make Your Backyard Extreme

Extreme Backyard Designs is located at 2330 S. Vineyard Ave. They can be reached at 909.930.6111 or online at http://www.extremebackyarddesigns.com.

By Michael Armijo

Companies come and go, so longevity is the key when you’re modifying your home, both inside and out. Extreme Backyard Designs is a testimony of longevity as their family run business has been designing outdoor entertainment centers with name brand components for over 20 years.

“A key component to staying in business this long is to treat people the way we would want ourselves to be treated,” said James Deeley, founder of the family business. With so many years in business, you not only get quality products, you also gets years of experience in getting things done correctly, creatively.

Extreme Backyard Designs can provide custom Barbeque islands, outdoor fireplaces, fire pit tables, spas, patio furniture, and many other items all wholesale to the public.

“We are college and trade school educated and enjoy the interaction and satisfaction of transforming backyards into a family’s personal oasis,” Deeley said. “Since we buy at such a large volume, we always have monthly specials available on our website.”

The Extreme Backyard Designs staff is the most knowledgeable and friendly people in the area, they are centrally located on the corner of the 60 Freeway and Vineyard, right across from the newest Kaiser building.

“We believe what makes a business thrive is to provide the best quality components, a superior level of customer service at an affordable price,” Deeley said.

Serving all of Southern California, Extreme Backyard Designs is located at 2330 S. Vineyard Ave in our neighboring city of Ontario. They can be reached at 909.930.6111, or you can view their website at www.extremebackyarddesigns.com

Walnut Valley Tapped For New National Award

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—Walnut Valley Unified School District will be honored with a new national recognition as a Schools to Watch District on June 30.

 

The award celebrates Walnut Valley’s dedication to providing an exemplary educational experience for students.

 

In the past two years, all three middle schools – Chaparral, South Pointe, and Suzanne – earned the prestigious Schools to Watch designation for demonstrating academic excellence, responsiveness to the needs of young adolescents, and social equity.

 

These model schools have been recognized at the state and national level and have become examples for middle schools across the country.

 

Walnut Valley is among only eight school districts in California and 17 in the nation that have earned this distinction.

 

“This is truly a compliment and a reflection of the commitment, dedication, and pride that all of our teachers, classified employees, support staff, administrators, board members, and personnel commissioners have placed in our 15 schools and our wonderful school district,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

 

The Schools to Watch District award will be presented by the National Forum to Accelerate Middle-Grades Reform in Washington D.C.

 

Sexual Hazing at Chino High School

Photo: anapr
Students at Don Lugo High School in Chino were accused of sexually hazing other students in a classroom that was not being supervised by a teacher.

By Anthony Saude

Chino – Students at Don Lugo High School in Chino were accused of sexually hazing other students in a classroom that was not being supervised by a teacher.

A student caught some of the incident on video. The video shows two football players holding another player down on the ground while simulating sexual acts.

In the video everybody is clothed, but Irene Hernandez Blair says there have been other reports that the alleged assaults were even more graphic.

Some of these reports state that was actual flesh to flesh contact. Blair is not only a parent of one of the alleged hazing victims; she is also a Chino Valley Unified School District Board member. Blair spoke about these reported incidents at a recent board meeting on June 14.

“These are the facts: Egregious acts took place while the kids were unsupervised,” she said in a recording of the meeting.

She said she was notified by the school superintendent and other board members last November about several videos showing football players performing lewd acts on other players, including placing genitals on students.

“I wanted parents to be advised that their sons were being interviewed and the reason as to why,” she said.

The school board decided not to inform the parents what their children were being questioned in reference to the incidents. Technically the school board doesn’t have a legal obligation to notify parents that any students were even being interviewed, much less about what.

Chino police have been contacted and the incidents are currently under investigation.

Blair said the school district conducted their own investigation and human resources recommended terminating head football coach, Gred Gano, for leaving the class of students without any adult supervision.

But school board members voted in favor of the coach without any disciplinary action whatsoever.

Blair recused herself from the vote because her son is an alleged victim.

It was reported that four students were expelled and a 14-year-old boy has been cited by Chino police.

Two of those students were eventually reinstated and one was allowed back on the football team.

Should Coach Gano have been held accountable?

The school district released the following statement:

“At Chino Valley Unified School District, the safety of our students is our highest priority. At this point, we cannot comment on pending litigation.”

 

Two Drivers Dead in 91 Freeway Accident

By Anthony Saude

CORONA — An accident on the 91 freeway in Corona claimed the lives of two drivers. One of the drivers, a male, was running away from the accident when he was struck and killed by oncoming traffic.

Initially a two-car crash was reported just before 10 p.m. on the westbound Riverside Freeway. According to the California Highway Patrol the accident took place just east of Lincoln Avenue.

Witnesses told the CHP the driver of a black Dodge sedan appeared to be under the influence before he crashed into a white sedan. After his vehicle hit the white sedan the driver exited the vehicle and started running down the freeway in the westbound lanes to get away from the accident. After only a short distance the driver, who has not been identified, was hit by several cars and died at the scene.

A source close to the victim driving the black sedan stated that “to the best of his knowledge the driver didn’t drink at all”.

The transition from the northbound Corona (15) Freeway carpool lane to the westbound Riverside Freeway Fast Track was shut down for several hours due to the wreckage and investigation.