Category Archives: The Weekly News

Walnut: City Council Recap 11/12/14

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – The Walnut City Council met early at 5 p.m. on Wed., Nov. 12 for a special meeting, citing a lack of quorum for a regular meeting that would normally be held at 7 p.m.

To start, the council members approved the minutes for the Oct. 8 study session and City Council meetings before launching into the first reading of a new ordinance, No. 14-05.

The Ordinance, which had its first reading approved, repealed Ordinance No. 08-04 for the City’s municipal code concerning residency restrictions for sex offenders.

The repeal of the ordinance was brought about to protect the City from lawsuits, with City Attorney Michael Montgomery saying the inclusion of the State’s laws alone were extensive enough to cover any problems that might arise in Walnut.

On the City’s consent calendar, the Council approved Resolution No. 14-56 allowing claims and demands in the amount of $1,085,225.13, a contract amendment for WRA Environmental Consultants to prepare a CEQA compliance document, and the cancellation of the City Council and Walnut Housing Authority meetings in observance of Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Without any other successor agency calendar items, the meeting adjourned at 5:20 p.m. with plans to hold the next Walnut City Council meeting on Wed., Dec. 10 at 7 p.m., in the City Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

STAFF REPORTS

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

23rd Annual Scholarship Tree of Lights Fundraiser

When: Now through Thurs., Nov. 20; and Dec. 4 – 5; noon to 4 p.m.

Where: Von’s Market, 350 N. Lemon Avenue, Walnut

Details: The Walnut Valley Women’s Club announces it will be selling lights for $5, and ornaments for $10. All proceeds go toward scholarships for 2014 graduates from Walnut and Nogales High Schools.

 

Operation Christmas Child Packing Party

When: Sat., Nov. 22, 4 to 8 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

Details: Mt. Calvary will be filling 1,000 shoe boxes with items they have been collecting all year. Operation Christmas Child sends filled boxes around the world for Christmas, so children less fortunate can hear about the word of God and receive a gift on Christmas.

Contact: Ann Lovell, (909) 730-9057.

 

Inland Pacific Ballet’s, The Nutcracker

When: Nov. 29 through Dec. 27

Where: Arcadia Performing Arts Center (188 Campus Drive, Arcadia), Nov. 29/30, 2 p.m.; Lewis Family Playhouse (12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga), Dec. 6, 1 and 7 pm., Dec. 7, 1 p.m.; Pomona College’s Bridges Auditorium (450 North College Way, Claremont), Dec. 13/14/20/21; Fox Performing Arts Center (3801 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside), Dec 27, 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Details: The critically acclaimed Inland Pacific Ballet brings The Nutcracker story to life with dazzling sets, beautiful costumes, and nearly 100 dancers on stage – in four theatres! Tickets start at $38, with discounts available.

Contact: jpballet.org

 

Christmas Advent Services

When: Dec. 3 – Christmas Play/Preschool; Dec. 10 – Christmas Play/Children K-4th Grade; Dec. 17 Advent Services/Grades 5-8. All services are at 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Service 11 p.m. Christmas Day Service 10 a.m.

Where: Family Life Center, Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

 

Mt. Calvary Annual Christmas Boutique

When: Thurs., Dec. 11 and Fri., Dec. 12.

Where: Family Life Center; Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

Details: There will be crafters selling inexpensive items.

Contact: If you are interested in being a crafter, call Cathy Harden at (909) 861-3526.

 

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Bookstore Blowout

Where: Twice Sold Tale Bookstore located at the Walnut Library, La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Details: All books and media: Any four items for $1 ($1 minimum purchase).

Contact: (909) 595-0757 or email the.walnut.library@mac.com.

 

Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second Tuesday of every month.

Where: Basically BOOKS locations: at 23447 Golden Springs Road, Diamond Bar and at the Diamond Bar Library: 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.

Details: Books and education videos will be offered at special discounts for teachers at all levels. Teachers can sign up at either Basically BOOKS locations or email BasicallyBOOKS@aol.com to join these special teacher appreciation afternoons.

 

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

 

DB Community Garden Space

When: Ongoing; daylight hours.

Where: United Church of Christ, 2335 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., Diamond Bar

Details: The Diamond Bar United Church of Christ is progressing on their Community Garden space, located behind the church. Residents interested in developing their own garden space, or helping with this project, are encouraged to visit the Labyrinth on the hilltop. This is also a wonderful location for reflection, and enjoying some peaceful moments in your day.

Contact: Susanne Potter, (909) 861-4735, or visit http://www.diamondbarucc.org.

 

Chino Hills: Curt Hagman Supervisor-Elect To SB Fourth District

STAFF REPORTS

Curt Hagman

Curt Hagman

Chino Hills – The November 4 General Election has come and gone, and the efforts of Assemblyman Curt Hagman (R-Chino Hills) in the race for Supervisor of San Bernardino’s Fourth District have paid off.

In a public letter published on Nov. 6, Hagman said he, and his wife Grace, “…are thrilled and humbled that the voters chose us to represent their interests in the Fourth Supervisorial District.

Hagman, who is a California State Assemblyman for the 55th District, termed out this year, and became a contender against Congresswoman Gloria Negrete McLeod (D-Montclair). His campaign promises included building a better future by creating jobs and continuing to strengthen the San Bernardino County economy, and with his win, Hagman is determined to keep the following issues in the forefront:

 

  • Take control of Ontario Airport away from Los Angeles so San Bernardino County can build it into a job-creating economic engine.
  • Attract more investment to San Bernardino County.
  • Personally recruit new employers to San Bernardino County.
  • Invest in infrastructure to keep people working and improve our quality of life.
  • Support the use of tax credits to encourage small businesses to hire new workers.

 

An article recently published by examiner.com stated that current 4th District Supervisor, Gary Ovitt has been in semi-retirement mode for at least six years. The article continues with high hopes for the Supervisor-elect stating that, “Most are tired of the current lack of transparency, ethics and integrity and hope that Curt Hagman will inspire change that restores public trust.”

On his website, Hagman says that he wants to make lives better. He will get the opportunity to do just. Hagman will be sworn into office in December.

 

Did You Know?

BY K.P. SANDER

abraham-lincoln

Abraham Lincoln

On Thurs., Nov. 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered what is perhaps one of the most famous speeches in American history. Lincoln spoke at the dedication of the Soldiers’ National Cemetery in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, just months after the Union army defeated the Confederacy on the fields in that same town in what resulted in the largest number of casualties in the entire Civil War.

In a mere two minutes, Lincoln articulated on the struggles of the war and the great sacrifices that had been made, but he also reminded his audience of the principles of human equality that were handed down by the Declaration of Independence 87 years prior at the start of the American Revolution.

Generations of school children have learned about – if not memorized – the Gettysburg Address, and it remains one of the greatest congregations of words that the ever-profound President Lincoln shared with the world. It bears rereading again and again.

“Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal.

“Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battlefield of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this.

“But, in a larger sense, we cannot dedicate, we cannot consecrate, we cannot hallow this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us – that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion – that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain – that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom – and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

 

Chino: Victim Helps Stop Chino Bank Robbery

STAFF REPORTS

chino-commercial-bank

Chino Commercial Bank robbery scene at 14245 Pipeline Avenue. (Photo Courtesy: Chino Commercial Bank)

Chino – On Sat., Nov. 8, at just before 9 a.m., Chino Police Officers responded to a holdup alarm from Chino Commercial Bank located at 14245 Pipeline Avenue.

While Officers were responding to the call, a victim hiding inside the bank called 911. The victim told dispatchers that a masked bank robber had tied up the other people inside the bank and was currently in the vault.

Police Officers arrived on scene and surrounded the bank. At that time the suspect attempted to flee out of a rear door and was confronted by Officers. The suspect then fled on foot toward the front of the bank. Officers pursued the suspect on foot and took him into custody. The suspect was in possession of a replica handgun.

The Officers then went inside the bank and freed three victims who had been bound hand and foot with zip ties. The fourth victim was able to exit the bank and meet with Officers after the suspect was in custody. The victims were not injured during the robbery.

The name of the suspect is being withheld pending further investigation. Anyone with information regarding this bank robbery is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

Walnut: Mt. SAC Professors Featured In Nature Exhibit

BY MIKE TAYLOR

Walnut – The Mt. San Antonio College Art Gallery will feature the work of Mt. SAC professors in its “Second Nature” exhibit, which runs Nov. 6 through Dec. 4, at the Art Gallery. This exhibit is free and open to the public.

“Second Nature” is a mixed media exhibit featuring the work of Mt. SAC art, animation, and photography professors. Participating artists are Carolyn Alexander, Keith Batcheller, Ron Brown, Fatemeh Burnes, Thomas Butler, Cherie Benner Davis, Craig Deines, Dirk Hagner, Gail Jacobs, Joan Kahn, Shane Keena, Nikki Lewis, Melissa Macias, Ryan McIntosh, Stephanie Meredith, Kirk Pedersen, Jay Perez, Katie Queen, Susie Rubenstein, Steve Schenck, Natasha Shoro, Thomas Stubbs, Kathryn Stovall-Dennis, Dan Van Clapp, and Shari Wasson.

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

Pomona: PUSD Supports Educational Success

BY JULIETTE FUNES 

Pomona – Pomona Unified parents and educators recently gathered at Harrison Elementary School for the 3rd Annual Readiness Conference, a program geared toward providing African American parents guidance on how to support the education of their children from birth to 8th Grade.

To support the continued success of PUSD students, the mini-parent conference, sponsored by the Pomona Alliance of Black School Educators (PABSE) and Pomona Unified, provided information on the new Common Core State Standards, the Accelerated Reader program and locally available resources to promote literacy, math and overall student enrichment.

“This parent program is just one of many that we encourage PUSD families to engage in as it enables them to have a direct impact on their child’s development and learning,” said Board of Education member Adrienne Konigar-Macklin. “Our students deserve the very best education possible and building partnerships and relationships with our parents and entire community is critical to ensuring their bright futures.”

This year’s Readiness Conference took place Oct. 25 and aimed to teach parents skills and strategies to promote student readiness. Educators prepared hands-on activities and individual workshops by grade level. Speakers also emphasized the parental role in academic achievement through strong, nurturing home environments while reinforcing positive proactive parent/teacher relationships and promoting programs that respond dynamically to students and their parents for overall well-being and success.

Parents also received information on how to support a nutritious and healthy lifestyle, which is foundational for academic readiness.

“Our goal is to adequately prepare our parents for their child’s future and getting their children ready for the next level in their academic career,” said Harrison Elementary School Principal and PABSE President, Shandria Richmond-Roberts. “With the help of our excellent instructors and staff, parents were able to gain newfound skills and strengthened those which they already had.”

Jointly, PUSD and PABSE have developed several programs that take place throughout the school year to provide students in all grade levels with resources and enrichment activities to ensure their success in school and career.

“It takes a whole community to help develop a whole child, and thanks to this collaborative partnership, we are able to provide students and their families the resources that will lead to academic success and achievement at PUSD,” said Superintendent Richard Martinez. “It’s exciting to see our parents join in these efforts and continue to be the inspiration and encouragement their children need.”

 

Chino: City Seeks Volunteers For Annual Homeless Count

STAFF REPORTS

Chino – The City of Chino and the San Bernardino County Homeless Partnership are seeking volunteers to help count the homeless population in Chino. The count is an annual event that will take place on Thurs., Jan. 22, 2015, from 6 to 10 a.m.

Volunteers will be grouped into teams of three and assigned to a deployment center located in Chino. Team members will then be escorted around the City to locate and count homeless individuals and families who are considered unsheltered. The count will also include a survey to determine risk factors contributing to homelessness.

The count is part of a Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development mandated program that allows communities to better understand the number and characteristics of people sleeping on the street, or in other places not meant for human habitation. Communities around the country must participate in this process in order to apply for federal homeless services grant funding. Federal grant funds are the largest source of homeless services funding in San Bernardino County.

Anyone interested in volunteering for the count may register at www.sanbernardinocountyhomelesscounts.com. For questions regarding volunteer opportunities, please contact Josh Munch, Community Services Coordinator at (909) 334-3488.

 

California’s Hidden Gas Tax Coming 2015

STAFF REPORTS

 

California – Apparently there is a hidden Gas Tax coming our way, as soon as Jan. 1, 2015, and efforts to change the effect this will have on Californians by Senate Republican Leader, Bob Huff – and others – have been ignored.

“I am very much opposed to California Air Resources Board’s (CARB) decision to bring gas, diesel and natural gas under the cap-and-trade provision of AB 32. The gasoline and diesel fuel hikes coming in January 2015 will hurt everyone, especially lower income families, widening the income inequality gap and making life much harder for those who can least afford it. Currently, one in four Californians live in poverty – the highest rate in the nation – and families are still struggling to recover from the great recession,” said Senator Huff (representing California’s 29th District) in his October 2014 “Huff Headlines” newsletter.

On August 22, Senate Republicans sent a letter to Governor Jerry Brown, Senate President Pro-Tempore Darrell Steinberg (D-Sacramento) and Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins (D-San Diego), urging their support for any of three options to prevent or delay a significant cost increase on gasoline, diesel and natural gas in California by as much as 76 cents a gallon on Jan. 1, 2015.

According to Huff, suggested options were ignored. Senate Bill 1079 by Senator Andy Vidak (R-Hanford) would have exempted gasoline, diesel, and natural gas from the state’s cap-and-trade program, thereby stopping the hidden gas tax. SB 1079 was not allowed a hearing by the Democratic majority.

A second option was to support AB 69 by Assembly member, Henry T. Perea (D-Fresno), which was amended to delay putting fuels under the cap-and-trade program until Jan. 1, 2018, with bipartisan support. It died in the Senate Rules Committee.

The 3rd option was for Gov. Brown to exercise his executive authority to direct CARB to exclude the fuels from the cap-and-trade program. Usually a tax is associated with some spending plan, and one can only assume (according to Huff) that the governor may want to spend the new taxes on his “high speed train to nowhere.”

Every citizen against the gas hikes must let their views be known now. Contact the governor by letter or phone, as follows: Governor Jerry Brown, c/o State Capitol, Suite 1173, Sacramento, CA, 95814; Phone (916) 445-2841; or Fax (916) 558-3160.

 

 

 

Chino Hills: Watch For Lower Speed Limits

STAFF REPORTS

speed limitsChino Hills – Motorists may notice speed limit signs with bright orange flags on some arterial streets in Chino Hills. The flags have been installed to draw attention to new lower speed limits.

The California Vehicle Code requires that the City set speed limits based upon the 85th percentile, which is the speed at – or below which – 85 percent of the traffic is moving.

New Engineering and Traffic surveys were recently completed, and some speed limits will be lowered as a result. In most cases, speed limits were reduced to enhance public safety due to accident history, the proximity of schools or driveways, roadway curves, visibility, or roadway conditions.

chino-hills-speed-limits

Diamond Bar: Council Recap Nov 4

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Diamond Bar – While state-wide elections were on the minds of most Californians, the Diamond Bar City Council kept its discussions local with its latest meeting on Tues., Nov. 4.

After an invocation by Worship Pastor, Jeremy DeFriend, and public comments from attending residents, the Council delved into the reading for its future event schedule.

The schedule included a Veterans Day celebration on Nov. 5 at the Diamond Bar Center, the Veterans Day holiday on Nov. 11, a cancelled Planning Commission meeting on Nov. 11 because of Veterans’ Day, a Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on Nov. 13, a Heritage Park Rehabilitation public workshop on Nov. 13, an Eco Expo on Nov. 15, the next City Council meeting on Nov. 18, the Walnut Valley Water District public meeting on Nov. 19, the Windmill Dedication on Nov. 20 at the Diamond Bar Towne Center, and the Grand View Trail opening on Nov. 22 at 1600 Grand Avenue.

The Council then went on to approve the items on the agenda, including the minutes for a study session on Oct. 21, a regular meeting on Oct. 21, the Planning Commission on Sept. 9, the Parks and Recreation Commission on Sept. 25, the ratification of a check register in the amount of $1,327,948.87, the Treasurer’s Statement for September 2014, Amendment No. 4 for the Memorandum of Understanding between the City and the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority for the State Route 60/Lemon Avenue Partial Interchange project, the authorization and approval of the $450,000 sale of Proposition A funds to the City of Industry, and the award of a contract in the amount of $36,202.41 to Interior Office Solutions for the purchase and installation of office furniture at City Hall from the General Fund reserves.

The Council then discussed its only public hearing item for adopting a resolution confirming a cost report for nuisance abatement costs concerning 427 N. Platina Drive. A presentation by Community Development Director, Greg Gubman, outlined that the property at 427 N. Platina Drive is considered a public nuisance because of its overgrown vegetation and dilapidated state. Gubman said the property owners, after failing to improve the site after months of warnings, were subject to City intervention which cleaned up the property for a total cost of $3,624.63 to the owner. Gubman also issued a $100 citation to the property owner and said the City would be keeping an eye on the property to see that it remains within City codes.

The Council then approved the resolution concerning the nuisance abatement.

The final item of the evening appointed Surendra Mehta as the Traffic and Transportation Commissioner.

The Council adjourned with plans to meet on Nov. 18 in the Diamond Bar City Council Chambers.

 

Walnut: 18th Annual Teddy Bear Tea

BY GAYLE PACHECO

teddy-bear-tea

(Photo Courtesy: Gayle Pacheco)

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation will be celebrating its 18th Annual Teddy Bear Tea on Sat., Nov. 15, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Royal Vista Golf Club (located at 20055 E. Colima Road in Walnut).

This year’s Master of Ceremonies will be Walnut Valley Unified School District Superintendent, Dr. Robert Taylor. In addition, the Foundation will be honoring the District’s 2013-14 Teachers of the Year, as well as the Classified Employees of the Year.

As in the past, the highlight of the Tea will be a beautiful display of creatively dressed and decorated Teddy Bears. Those in attendance will have the opportunity to take one home by purchasing raffle tickets at the event.

All proceeds from the Tea will be used to fund classroom mini-grants throughout the Walnut Valley Unified School District.

Your support of this enjoyable and worthwhile event is appreciated as it will help teachers provide quality education for our students.

For further information on the event or to purchase tickets, call (626) 673-6010, email WalnutEdFoundation@gmail.com, and see the ad on page 6 of this publication.

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

STAFF REPORTS

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

 

23rd Annual Scholarship Tree of Lights Fundraiser

When: Now through Thurs., Nov. 20; and Dec. 4 – 5; noon to 4 p.m.

Where: Von’s Market, 350 N. Lemon Avenue, Walnut

Details: The Walnut Valley Women’s Club announces it will be selling lights for $5, and ornaments for $10. All proceeds go toward scholarships for 2014 graduates from Walnut and Nogales High Schools.

 

LA Opera’s Orpheus

When: Wed., Nov. 19; 11:20 a.m.

Where: Diamond Bar High School Theatre of Performing Arts

Details: Students from DBHS Theatre Arts program will perform with LA Opera’s professional arts in an original opera by Nathan Wang and Matthew Leavett. Students have been learning their roles for ten weeks, and they will be performing for peers, parents, and members of the community.

Contact: Tickets are available at www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama. For more information, call Beatrice Casagran at DBHS (909) 594-1405, or Lisa Reilly at LA Opera (213) 972-3157.

 

Operation Christmas Child Packing Party

When: Sat., Nov. 22, 4 to 8 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

Details: Mt. Calvary will be filling 1,000 shoe boxes with items they have been collecting all year. Operation Christmas Child sends filled boxes around the world for Christmas, so children less fortunate can hear about the word of God and receive a gift on Christmas.

Contact: Ann Lovell, (909) 730-9057.

 

Inland Pacific Ballet’s, The Nutcracker

When: Nov. 29 through Dec. 27

Where: Arcadia Performing Arts Center (188 Campus Drive, Arcadia), Nov. 29/30, 2 p.m.; Lewis Family Playhouse (12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga), Dec. 6, 1 and 7 pm., Dec. 7, 1 p.m.; Pomona College’s Bridges Auditorium (450 North College Way, Claremont), Dec. 13/14/20/21; Fox Performing Arts Center (3801 Mission Inn Ave, Riverside), Dec 27, 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Details: The critically acclaimed Inland Pacific Ballet brings The Nutcracker story to life with dazzling sets, beautiful costumes, and nearly 100 dancers on stage – in four theatres! Tickets start at $38, with discounts available.

Contact: jpballet.org

 

Christmas Advent Services

When: Dec. 3 – Christmas Play/Preschool; Dec. 10 – Christmas Play/Children K-4th Grade; Dec. 17 Advent Services/Grades 5-8. All services are at 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Service 11 p.m. Christmas Day Service 10 a.m.

Where: Family Life Center, Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

 

Mt. Calvary Annual Christmas Boutique

When: Thurs., Dec. 11 and Fri., Dec. 12.

Where: Family Life Center; Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar

Details: There will be crafters selling inexpensive items.

Contact: If you are interested in being a crafter, call Cathy Harden at (909) 861-3526.

 

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Bookstore Blowout

Where: Twice Sold Tale Bookstore located at the Walnut Library, La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Details: All books and media: Any four items for $1 ($1 minimum purchase).

Contact: (909) 595-0757 or email the.walnut.library@mac.com.

 

Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second Tuesday of every month.

Where: Basically BOOKS locations: at 23447 Golden Springs Road, Diamond Bar and at the Diamond Bar Library: 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.

Details: Books and education videos will be offered at special discounts for teachers at all levels. Teachers can sign up at either Basically BOOKS locations or email BasicallyBOOKS@aol.com to join these special teacher appreciation afternoons.

 

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

 

DB Community Garden Space

When: Ongoing; daylight hours.

Where: United Church of Christ, 2335 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., Diamond Bar

Details: The Diamond Bar United Church of Christ is progressing on their Community Garden space, located behind the church. Residents interested in developing their own garden space, or helping with this project, are encouraged to visit the Labyrinth on the hilltop. This is also a wonderful location for reflection, and enjoying some peaceful moments in your day.

Contact: Susanne Potter, (909) 861-4735, or visit http://www.diamondbarucc.org.

 

LA County: Operation Safe Halloween Rescues Pomona Child

STAFF REPORTS

County of Los Angeles – When the Special Enforcement Officers (SEO) set out in the pre-dawn hours of Halloween, they were looking to see if 66 of the Department’s highest risk child predators were in compliance with their court orders ranging from no child pornography on their phones or computers, to no candy or costumes in their homes used to entice children on a day famous for temptation. Deputy Probation Officers (DPOs) found much more than that on Halloween morning.

In a Pomona home, the SEO team entered to find a 32-year old sex offender in bed with a 10-year old girl.  According to the County of L.A. Probation Department, the probationer and another adult male were arrested at the scene, as was the mother of the girl.  The child was taken into protective custody by the Department of Children and Family Services. The SEO team also confiscated a methamphetamine pipe and marijuana. The contraband was taken to the Pomona Police Department for processing.

Another team – this time in Santa Clarita – arrested a 22-year old sex offender who was residing with his mother. The SEO team learned that the mother runs what appeared to be a child daycare service out of her home. A female tenant who also lived in the residence with her infant son and 9-year old daughter told SEO she had no idea the man was a convicted sex offender.

“Operation Safe Halloween is about ensuring probationers are in compliance with the law, but at its core, the Operation is about protecting children and we were able to accomplish that mission today,” said Assistant Chief Margarita Perez.

60 L.A. County SEOs deployed at 5 a.m. from eight staging areas Countywide, with a pre-dawn strategy to check on child sex offenders at a time when offenders least expect to be visited by law enforcement.

In total, five sex offenders were arrested and taken into custody, along with five computers, 13 USB sticks and memory cards, three computer towers, and drugs/drug paraphernalia were confiscated. The Department of Children and Family Services took one 10-year old girl into protective custody and is investigating the status of two other children involved in a home where a sex offender resided.

“Today is a perfect example of the value of going into the communities, into the homes of probationers to see who they are living with, what is their environment, and what is the real story of their compliance with the orders of the court,” says Special Enforcement Director, Eric Newby.

This is the third year L.A. County Probation has conducted Operation Safe Halloween.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Travelling the World

By Nancy Stoops

 

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

Ever since I was a very small girl, I always knew that I wanted to travel around the entire world.

It really all began when I was 17. I had graduated high school a semester early and then spent three months in Europe. At that point I became addicted to wanting to see the entire world.

Now, I have just two more continents to go. The plan is to see Australia this year and then, as I turn 60, go to Antarctica. I know I will always continue to travel, even though very soon I will have literally made it all around the world.

There are many ways to learn and I have experienced most of them. Travel is a very unique way to learn because you literally become part of what you are learning. There is no better way to understand a country or its culture than to become immersed in it.

I have gotten to know people from so many different walks of life, and have received blessings from a holy person within each of these cultures. I have also been part of many wonderful ceremonies and traditions, one of which involved dancing with goats in a Peruvian village. I will never forget my African Chief, my Thailand monk, all my shamans, and all the other wonder spiritual beings that I spent time with while being blessed. It has been my honor!

I also make sure that each journey comes with a close-up wild life experience. I have walked, fed and swum with 450 pound tigers. I have trained elephants, and swum with sea lions, sharks, and mantas. I have held the head of a cheetah in my lap for a petting session. This year I want to hold a koala and feed kangaroos. I love my life, and travelling really enriches it.

 

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.

 

Proud of Myself

By Michael Armijo

 

I remember closing my eyes, trying my hardest to embrace the way I felt. I wanted to burn into my memory the feeling of enchantment that overwhelmed me. I wanted the way I felt that evening to last a lifetime.

It wasn’t just dinner and cocktails with some co-workers. It wasn’t just a significant evening for someone special, a celebration of achievement. The evening meant more to me than it did to the person being honored. It was an evening in which I was proud to be included.

With my wife in my arms, I memorized the melody of the song as we slowly moved over the shiny, wooden dance floor. A glance out of the window provided a beautiful view of the city. A look around the room at people I respected and admired filled me with tremendous pride. I will never forget how it felt to be present and included that night.

When I tried to recall the last time I felt this way, it took me back to the 7th Grade. I remember failing all my classes and my teacher, Miss Contreras, helped to change my perspective. She told me that I deserved to be number one; that I deserved to be the best and to feel proud of myself. What she said worked, because I found the path that led me to becoming Student of the Year, along with top grades and a place on the honor roll.

Unfortunately, that feeling was taken from me. Abuse and neglect took those happy moments from my life and traded them for sadness and pain.

Over the years I’ve worked hard to overcome those hard times and make a positive difference in the lives around me. Just as Miss Contreras did for me, I’ve tried to help people find their own path to personal worth, encouraging people to live the life of an achiever; showing people that it can be done.

Because of who I was and where I’ve been, helping others and making a positive contribution has aways meant so much to me. I’ve always dreamed of feeling the satisfaction of making a difference – without conditions or ulterior motives. I’ve waited for the day that I knew my accomplishments were worthy of my intentions.

And that evening – an evening I will forever hold dear in my heart – I stood there with peers of mine whom I respected, with the woman I’ve loved for nearly 30 years, and I felt proud of my life. With a tear in my eye, I realized I have made a difference in the lives around me.

And just as I felt when I won that 7th Grade Student of the Year award, I had earned a feeling that no one could ever take from me. I found the path to fulfillment for what I’ve done with my life, and realized it was okay to feel proud of myself.

 

Straight Talk With Danice

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

 

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Six of my neighbors have season tickets to watch a professional sports team that is almost an hour away. They always invite me because I have a large vehicle and I’m willing to be the designated driver. My boyfriend says they are just using me and that they would have nothing to do with me if I didn’t drive them. I really have a good time with my neighbors and I never feel used. It’s not a sacrifice for me because I don’t like alcohol. I wonder if he is mad because there is only one spare ticket and he can never join us. What do you think?

-Suzanna

 

Dear Suzanna:

It sounds to me like your boyfriend is negative. Why does he think that your neighbors would “have nothing to do with you?” Is he insinuating that you are flawed in some way, and only have value because of your vehicle and driving abilities? If you are enjoying yourself, then there is no problem here. If your boyfriend is often negative to the point where he tears you down, you won’t be able to remain emotionally healthy in his company. Look at this closely. Good Luck.

-Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

 

 

Santa Ana: Former OC Teacher Charged In Sex Tourism Case

STAFF REPORTS

Santa Ana – A former teacher with the Santa Ana School District has been charged with traveling to the Philippines to engage in sex with an underage girl and producing a video of the encounter.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Robert Ruben Ornelas, 63, of Santa Ana, was taken into federal custody on Fri., Oct. 24 after being named in a criminal complaint filed in United States District Court.

The three-count complaint accuses the onetime school teacher and girls softball coach of engaging in sexual conduct in a foreign place, producing child pornography, and possessing child pornography.

Ornelas also faces state charges of lewd acts with a child, but the defendant was turned over to federal custody after the new complaint was filed.

The federal complaint details allegations that Ornelas traveled in March 2012 to the Philippines, where he engaged in sexual conduct with a girl who was approximately 14. According to the affidavit in the case, Ornelas took video of his encounter with the girl and brought the images with him when he returned the U.S. the following month. The third count in the complaint accuses the defendant of knowingly possessing the child pornography.

While Ornelas is charged with conduct related to one victim, the affidavit discusses evidence linking him to the sexual molestation of additional victims.

The federal case is based on information and images found on Ornelas’ computer and digital media seized by investigators when they executed a search warrant at his residence. On the seized media, investigators discovered communications between Ornelas and several underage girls in the Philippines dating back to 2007. Investigators also found numerous sexually explicit photos and videos of underage girls.

The Orange County District Attorney’s Office previously charged Ornelas with two counts of lewd conduct with a child for allegedly molesting a relative. While those charges remain pending at this time, Ornelas was transferred to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service on Oct. 24 to facilitate the federal prosecution.

At his initial court appearance that same day in federal court, Ornelas was ordered held without bond and was ordered to appear at an arraignment on November 10.

The three charges in the criminal complaint carry a cumulative maximum sentence of 80 years in federal prison. The charge of producing child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years.

Walnut: Suzanne 8th Graders Stand Tall At Summit

BY KELLI GILE

 

students-at-8th-grade-summit

: The 8th Grade Summit field activities focused on team building through physical activities. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Suzanne Middle School 8th graders took a giant step forward in breaking down the walls of stereotypes and learning about the people around them during the 6th Annual Summit.

The exciting day of activities included workshops, discussions, and a motivational speaker.

About 475 students were divided into three groups to rotate through breakout sessions in classrooms, the field, and the multi-purpose room. The topic of the day was “Understanding and Overcoming Stereotypes”

“Students were mixed up into groups so they could get to know peers that they might not otherwise meet,” explained counselor George Ann Cusson.

“The entire 8th Grade class participated in a day of reflection and opportunities of personal growth,” said teacher Marla Rickard.

Classroom sessions allowed students to look at the impact of judging people and to reflect on personal impacts on all the parties. Some of the activities included, If You Knew Me Well, the Tootsie Pop, and the Playing Card. The field activities focused on team building through physical activities; a favorite was the Human Pyramid.

During the Stand Tall challenge in the MPR, students learned more about themselves and each other. They analyzed the Iceberg Theory to find ways to drop below the water level to get to know their fellow classmates.

Rickard and Cusson created the event made possible with the help several teachers and staff members, PLUS and PALS service club members, and leadership students.

31 Walnut High School students and two graduates also come for the day to facilitate and lead all the breakout sessions.

“Without them the day would not be as successful. It’s a true team effort,” Rickard said.

“I think the kids are learning more about what they say to each other and to think before they speak,” said WHS senior and ASB president Phillip Silesky,

In one game, students asked their neighbor questions from a bowl. Some were serious: What would you do if you knew one of your friends was taking drugs? And some were funny: If you were invisible for one day what would be the first thing you would do?

“I probably wouldn’t even know I was invisible and just go to school!” one student replied.

After lunch, WHS graduate and motivational speaker, Dee Hankins, spoke to the class about goal setting, rising above any situation, and encouraged the students to live their life with purpose.

 

Honoring An Old Friend

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

My brother and I have both served as church pastors for almost 40 years.  Two men greatly influenced our lives during our high school and college years that led both of us to go into full-time ministry.

One of those men was Dr. Jim Borror.  Jim was the first pastor of Scottsdale Bible Church in Scottsdale, Arizona in the 1960s.  He was a remarkable Bible teacher with his doctorate degree from Dallas Theological Seminary.

Jim was a young pastor, husband and father with lots of energy.  He spent a lot of time with the teens and young twenty-year olds in our church.  He led us on hikes into the Grand Canyon.  He played football and softball with us.  He took us camping in the beautiful pine-covered mountains of Arizona. We loved to be around him.

Dr. Borror was also an excellent Bible teacher and theologian.  He modeled a love for the Bible and taught us lessons from the Word that still stick in the back of our minds today.

Jim was also a good shepherd and cared for people in our church.  His wife, Norma, became close friends with our mother; and Jim’s thoughtful and insightful Bible teachings touched the heart and mind of our father.

Recently, my brother and I were invited to speak at Jim’s retirement dinner here in Southern California.  We enjoyed sharing stories and pictures about Jim and his wife Norma from those days 40 years ago at Scottsdale Bible Church.

It was a privilege to get to honor this remarkable man.  We will never be able to fully express how thankful we are for the encouragement and influence Dr. Borror had in both of our lives and our own families.

In first Timothy 5:17, the Apostle Paul said, “Let the leaders who serve well be considered worthy of double honor, especially those who work hard at preaching and teaching.”  I’m thankful that we were able to honor our dear friend and former pastor, Jim Borror.

I wonder if there is someone who greatly influenced your life and career.  Maybe a teacher, a coach, a counselor, or pastor encouraged you in your formative years.  Have you taken time to honor them and express your thanks?

Let me encourage you to take time this week to send a card or note to one of the people that impacted your life in the past.  Use this opportunity to express your thanks and appreciation for how they touched your life.  Don’t wait.  Do it this week.  You will be glad you did, and they will be, 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.