Category Archives: The Weekly News

San Gabriel Vally: Water Supply Emergency Declared in SG Basin

Staff Reports

SGV – It’s no secret that we are experiencing a severe drought, and that water is in short supply, but the Main San Gabriel Basin water_drophas been pushed to record lows. Groundwater levels in the Basin will continue to drop if this coming winter does not provide above average rainfall and significant amounts of imported water used to replenish the depleted groundwater supplies are not provided by the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD).

The Board of Directors for the Upper San Gabriel Valley Municipal Water District (Upper District) has recently approved a resolution adopting a water supply emergency. This District provides wholesale water service, recycled water and groundwater replenishment supplies to retail water providers that serve all, or portions of, 18 cities including Arcadia, Azusa, Baldwin Park, Bradbury, Covina, Duarte, El Monte, Glendora, Industry, Irwindale, La Puente, Monrovia, Rosemead, San Gabriel, South El Monte, South Pasadena, Temple City and West Covina.

This unprecedented action follows three consecutive dry years, with the winter of 2013-14 being a record dry year.

The Upper District’s Board President, Anthony Fellow, said that the recent action is necessary to continue the reliable and safe operation of the Basin’s water supply.

“Groundwater levels continue to hit record lows and weather forecasts predict continued drought-like conditions; the Upper District recognizes it is critical to reinforce the water conservation emergency regulations mandated by the State Water Resources Control Board in August, and also strongly supports Governor Brown’s call for all Californians to reduce their personal water use by 20 percent,” said Fellow.

The Basin is at a record low level of 182 feet above mean sea level as measured at the Key Well, located in Baldwin Park. Over 36 inches of rain is needed to make up for the current shortfall from the last three years. Even more is needed just to return to the low end of the safe operating range.

The Upper District states that without deliveries of imported water, and if the coming winter is as dry as last year, groundwater levels could drop another 20 feet or more. Many groundwater wells will lose production capacity (requiring longer operation times), and several will no longer be able to provide any water. The Main San Gabriel Basin Watermaster is working closely with local water providers to update an emergency water supply plan to deal with this condition and get ahead of the issues before things become even worse.

“MWD will play a critical role in stretching its already thin water supplies to help San Gabriel Valley communities through this drought,” stated Fellow.

Maintaining the safe operating yield of the Basin is critical not only for the management of a reliable watershed, but also in containing the migration of contaminant plumes that are found in the groundwater. Per the Judgment entered into in 1974 by all water rights holders in the Basin, it is the Watermaster’s responsibility to maintain these safe operating levels and manage the Basin. Upper District’s actions support the Watermaster’s responsibility to manage the Basin and ensure that water requested for groundwater replenishment is delivered on the same terms and conditions as provided to other Metropolitan member agencies.

The Upper District’s mission is to provide a reliable, sustainable, diversified and affordable portfolio of high quality water supplies to the San Gabriel Valley, including water conservation, recycled water, storm water capture, storage, water transfers and imported water. The Upper District serves nearly one million people in its 144 square mile territory, using more than 78 billion gallons of water in the service area.

For more information about the Upper District, please visit http://www.upperdistrict.org or call (626) 443-2297.

Chino: Suspicious Person Warning To Community

STAFF REPORTS

Chino – The Chino Police Department has issued a warning to the community regarding a suspicious person who may be attempting to lure students walking to and from school.

On Wed., Oct. 22, at approximately 8:40 a.m. Officers responded to the 14300 block of Pipeline Avenue after receiving a report of a van, being driving by an unknown adult, followed a 15-year old female on her way to school. The victim stated that the driver of the van made multiple attempts to contact her, and continued to follow her despite her numerous attempts to elude the situation.

The victim reported that she was not able to clearly see the driver, but described the individual as having a large build, and stated that the vehicle was a grey, cargo-style van with tinted windows.

The Chino Police Department, along with the Chino Valley Unified School District, strongly encourage students to walk in pairs or groups whenever possible, and to immediately report any suspicious activity to the local police department.

This investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 10.25.14

The-Weekly-News -10.25.14

The 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 Oct25WeeklyAll  to access the complete Oct. 25th, 2014 issue in pdf format.

Straight Talk With Danice

BY DANICE AKIYOSHI, N.D

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

I recently attended a dinner meeting with a female business associate who told me that she and her husband are having serious marital problems and that she might file for divorce. I have been attracted to her for three years, but ignored my feelings because she’s married. If she files for divorce how long should I wait before I ask her out?

-Anthony

Dear Anthony:

Don’t pursue her in any serious way until she’s had enough time to repair her life emotionally. Give her your number and tell her that you’d be very interested in getting to know her better in the future, if she has any interest. Leave it at that. People often make lots of mistakes when they end a relationship. You don’t want to be any part of all of that if you really like this woman. If she’s interested, she’ll call.

-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.

 

 

 

Did You Know?

BY K.P. SANDER

the-surrender-of-cornwallis

The Surrender of Cornwallis (Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)

Although the Revolutionary War officially ended in 1782, the last battle came to pass with surrender on Oct. 19, 1781, 233 years ago.

The Battle of Yorktown, which began on Oct. 6 of that year, when British General, Charles Cornwallis, moved his troops to Virginia to take over the command from loyalist, General Benedict Arnold. He found the troops low on reinforcements and supplies.

At the same time, General George Washington was moving to attack New York with the help of the French – who were convinced to help by Benjamin Franklin. Cornwallis was ordered to bring all 7,500 of his troops to New York, but he did not obey, staying in Yorktown (now Williamsburg, VA).

On Oct. 6, General Washington’s Continental Army attacked Cornwallis with over 16,000 men, including the French, and the American colonists and militia. The Continental Army persevered, and then on Oct. 17, the British sent a fleet from New York to assist Cornwallis, but it was too late. The British were outnumbered and out of supplies and food.

A letter was delivered to Cornwallis from General Washington, stating that he wanted to stop the “useless effusion of blood.” Realizing there was no hope for his troops, Cornwallis replied with this letter:

York in Virginia, 17th October 1781, 1/2 Past 4 P.M. 

Sir,

I have this moment been honoured with your Excellency’s letter dated this day.

The time limited for sending my answer will not admit of entering into the detail of Articles, but the basis of my proposals will be that the Garrisons of York and Gloucester shall be prisoners of War with the customary honours, and for the convenience of the individuals which I have the honour to command, that the British shall be sent to Britain and the Germans to Germany, under engagement not to serve against France, America or their Allies untill released or regularly exchanged, that all Arms and publick stores shall be delivered up to you, but that the usual indulgence of side arms to Officers and of retaining private property shall be granted to Officers & Soldiers, and that the interests of several individuals in Civil Capacities & connected with us, shall be attended to. If Your Excellency thinks that a continuance of the suspension of hostilities will be necessary to transmit your answer I shall have no objection to the hour that you propose. I have the honor to be,

Your most obedient & most humble servant,

Cornwallis

 

 

Just A Thought…

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

Is Social Media really Anti-Social Media? With the advent of “smart-phones” our communication styles have perhaps become less intelligent. With everything from a lack of actual conversation to cyber bullying, Social Media may be ruining many lives.

Social Media is the apple, and we are Adam and Eve. With it, we’ve tasted the truth; we’ve been empowered. Do we think we are God-like, making our own rules; defying purity; defying morality? Were we ever emotionally equipped for the rapid advancement of the Facebooks, Twitters and Instagrams of this world?

There are now consequences for what we believe is acceptable, according to what the majority of a ‘conversational’ thread dictates. It is sad that our individuality is being convoluted by our need – our greed – to be accepted, loved, and “liked”.

Our need to feel right socially has become our weakness. God said the beast will try and destroy us; could the “beast” be technology? “It” is surely behind this weakness, encouraging some with immorality and introversion. Man created technology, not God. And with this obsessive socialism of technology, could man be unknowingly destroying man? Are we so ‘social’ that we are missing out on society?

Just a thought…

 

Weddings And Marriage

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

In my last article, I mentioned that my wife and I had attended four weddings in four weeks from late August and to the end of September.  All of the weddings were at outdoor locations from Temecula to Malibu, from Oak Glen to downtown L.A.

It used to be that June was the month for weddings, but one wedding planner told me that now September has become the new popular choice for weddings.

There is a passage in the Bible that says, “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother, cleave to his wife and the two will become one flesh,” (Genesis 2:24).  This short verse contains three important words.

When a couple gets married, they need to leave their father and mother.  They need to end their dependence on their parents and establish their own family.  Many young adults have already done this by finishing school and starting a career.  But, sometimes they have remained financially and emotionally dependent on their parents.

In addition, the married couple needs to cleave to one another.  The word in the original Hebrew language has the idea of an unbreakable bond.  We might use the word “super glue” to convey the idea that a married couple needs to “stick together” and not let anything or anyone break this sacred commitment.

Finally, the Bible verse also says that the married man and woman “become one flesh”.  This expresses the physical intimacy that God intended for a married couple to share.  It is one of the most remarkable and unique relationships known to mankind.

These days, sadly, physical intimacy is not taken seriously.  Movies, TV sitcoms, books and magazines often give the impression that intimacy does not need to be protected and that people should pursue any relationships they want.

Maybe it sounds old fashioned to encourage students and young adults to not live recklessly and thoughtlessly in this area of their lives.  Maybe it seems unrealistic to expect married couples to remain faithful to their wedding vows and to one another.

Maybe we need to remind ourselves and our kids that marriage is something very special.

Weddings are special moments in the lives of the couple getting married and for families who celebrate this wonderful occasion.

Regardless of what month you select for your wedding, I hope you will remember these three important words – leave, cleave and become one!

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.

 

Celebrating the Simple Things

BY NANCY STOOPS

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

I believe that each day we have the honor of being alive is call for celebration. Every morning as I awaken and see the sun rising and filling the sky with majestic colors, I am reminded of how lucky we are.As I step out in the morning with Midnight, my therapy dog, I feel blessed for his friendship and for the health that we both have. As we start our walk through our wonderful community, I am proud to be part of it and I enjoy the morning song of the birds around us. As we walk, I enjoy the trees and flowers that represent life in the neighborhood.

Midnight and I are greeted by the other daily walkers with a friendly smile and warm hello. It’s so nice to be part of such a wonderful neighborhood filled with such lovely people.

Sometimes the other dogs will visit with Midnight as we make our way through our neighborhood, and that makes Midnight a very happy soul.

I think the feeling of the sun on my face is just magical. The fragrant plants and flowers are intoxicating and so very delightful. Swimming or floating in water has always been very freeing for me. Laughter truly is the best medicine and I think we all could do a lot more of it. Looking up at a night sky filled with stars and a full moon can be an experience that provides a wonderful kind of solace. Just hanging out with my grandson is fabulous.

These simple things I speak of don’t cost any money, but are literally priceless. I think if we all take time to appreciate the simple things that are so wonderful in our world, we will be more positive. I think we will not dwell so much on what is wrong, but focus on what is right!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Diamond Bar, and is currently accepting new clients. Nancy also runs free family support groups, anger management groups, and special groups for seniors and teens. She is also available for motivational speaking engagements. For more information on any of these services, contact Nancy at (909)229-0727.

San Gabriel Valley: Halloween Safety

STAFF REPORTS

halloween-clip-art-free-halloween-clipart-3SGV – Halloween is one of the most anticipated holidays for adults and children throughout the Chino Valley and beyond. Our friends at the Chino Valley Fire District offer the following safety tips for children, adults and motorists to help ensure a safe and happy Halloween for all.

Safety Tips for Children:

  • Purchase costumes that are made of flame retardant material. Avoid materials such as lightweight cotton fabrics that are easily ignited.
  • Make sure hemlines are short enough to prevent tripping or contact with flame.
  • Do not allow children to carry sharp sticks or other objects that could cause injury.
  • Use light-colored material and reflective tape on costumes for maximum visibility.
  • Plan a well-lit route for young children to use while trick-or-treating. Return home early.
  • Closely inspect all candy before allowing children to eat it. Discard any unwrapped treats from a stranger. If in doubt, throw it out.

Safety Tips for Adults:

  • Have non-alcoholic drinks available for guests if you have a party at your house.
  • Arrange for a designated driver for those who are drinking alcohol.
  • Take the keys from anyone that may be drinking.
  • Never serve alcohol to individuals less than 21 years of age.

Safety Tips for Motorists:

  • Be aware of children darting out between parked vehicles.
  • Do not pass other vehicles that have stopped in the roadway.
  • Be alert when driving through intersections.
  • Never assume a pedestrian approaching the roadway will yield to your vehicle.

Be sure that small children use battery operated flashlights and are under supervision at all times.

This is also a great time to buy fresh batteries for your home smoke detectors.

The Chino Valley Fire District wishes you a safe and happy Halloween!

 

 

 

 

Walnut Valley Salutes Teachers of the Year

BY KELLI GILE

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District honored the 2013-2014 Teachers of the Year during the Salute to Teachers awards program that was held on October 15 at the Walnut High School Performing Arts Center.

The following outstanding educators were selected by their sites as Teachers of the Year:

-Jody Brown: Castle Rock Elementary

-Sherry Robertson: Chaparral Middle School

-Carol Martindale: C.J. Morris Elementary

-Scott Jones: Collegewood Elementary

-Janna Lindenberg: Diamond Bar High

-Lynn Otsu: Evergreen Elementary

-Kristin Thomas: Maple Hill Elementary

-Jodi Yim: Quail Summit Elementary

-Ann Schnoor: South Pointe Middle School

-Susan Warren: Suzanne Middle School

-Amy Smith: Vejar Elementary

-Krystin Wong: Walnut Elementary

-Jennifer Nicholls: Walnut High

-Susan Tang: Westhoff Elementary

Sherry Robertson, a Humanities and Language Arts teacher in the Design-Based Learning (DBL) program at Chaparral Middle School was recognized as the 2014 District Teacher of the Year. Sherry represented WVUSD in the Los Angeles County Teacher of the Year competition.

Congratulations to all of these outstanding educators!

 

 

Riverside: Local Man Arrested For Kidnapping

STAFF REPORTS

 

roberto-marcos

Suspect Roberto Marcos (Photo Courtesy: SBSD)

Riverside – On Sept. 26, a 65-year old male victim came to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department’s (SBSD) Fontana Station to report he had been assaulted and kidnapped at his residence in Bloomington.

According to SBSD, two Hispanic male suspects confronted the victim and demanded he tell them the whereabouts of a female involved in a relationship with one of the suspects. The suspects forced the victim away from his residence and drove him to an undisclosed area of San Bernardino, where they continued to assault him and threaten him. The victim was tied up with an electrical cord and driven to a residence in Riverside. Once the suspects discovered the whereabouts of the female, the suspects released the victim but threatened to kill him if he alerted the police.

Fontana Station detectives conducted an extensive follow-up investigation and identified one of the suspects as Roberto Marcos. Surveillance was conducted at Marcos’ residence in Riverside and detectives took Marcos into custody as he attempted to drive away. Evidence related to the kidnapping was recovered from Marcos’ residence during a subsequent search warrant. Marcos is in custody at the Central Detention Center on charges of Kidnapping and Terrorist Threats. He is being held in lieu of $600,000 bail.

Detectives are still seeking information on the second suspect, an unidentified Hispanic male in his early 30s, approximately 6’0”, 200 pounds, black hair, brown eyes, bald or shaved head, and last seen wearing a blue mechanics jumpsuit, driving a maroon or burgundy, early 90s, 4-door import sedan.

 

Anyone with additional information regarding this case is asked to contact Detective Joe Parker or Sergeant Mark Martinez at the Fontana Station, at (909) 356-6767.

California Named Top 10 State for Afterschool

Staff Reports

 

California – Strong participation among students and high satisfaction with afterschool programs among parents have made California a “Top 10 State for Afterschool,” based on findings from a new household survey commissioned by the Afterschool Alliance. The 2014 edition of America After 3PM also shows that demand for afterschool programs still far exceeds supply and the number of children in California who would participate if an afterschool program were available surpasses the number of children in afterschool programs.

The America After 3PM survey included 30,000 American households and 854 in-depth interviews in California. It found that 25 percent of California students, 1,661,374 children in all, are enrolled in afterschool programs, up from 19 percent in 2009, when the survey was last conducted. But 1,247,699 California students are still without adult supervision in the afternoons. The parents of 2,435,254 California children not already in an afterschool program say they would enroll their child if a program were

available.

“California has made great progress creating afterschool opportunities for its children, and can be proud of that,” said Afterschool Alliance Executive Director, Jodi Grant. “But there’s no question that more work remains. Most parents in the state who want their child in a program can’t find one that works for them, and that needs to change. Every California family that needs an afterschool program should have access to one.”

The “Top 10 States for Afterschool,” from highest to lowest, are California, the District of Columbia, Florida, Vermont, Massachusetts, Arizona, Oregon, Nebraska, Tennessee and Hawaii.

“We have important building blocks for future progress already in place in California,” said Jeff Davis, Interim Director of the California AfterSchool Network. “The survey found that 90 percent of parents with children in afterschool programs are satisfied with the program their child attends. Also encouraging is the rock solid support for public funding of afterschool. Eighty-six percent of California parents in the survey said they support public funding for afterschool programs.”

To determine the state rankings, a composite score was calculated for all 50 states, plus the District of Columbia, and indexed against the national average. Each state’s overall score is based on afterschool program participation, afterschool programs reaching children in need, and parents’ satisfaction with key features of their child’s afterschool program.

On October 23, more than 1 million people in communities across the nation and at U.S. military installations worldwide will join the only national rally for afterschool programs. Sponsored by the Afterschool Alliance and now in its 15th

year, Lights On

Afterschool brings communities together for science fairs, fun runs, community service events, music and dance performances, open houses and other events at schools, community centers, malls, parks and recreation centers, science museums, state capitols, and other settings. Find a local Lights On Afterschool event at www.afterschoolalliance.org/LOA.cfm.

 

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

A Midsummer Night’s Dream

When: October 18, 24, and 25. All shows are at 7 p.m.

Where: Diamond Bar High School Theatre, 21400 E. Pathfinder Road, Diamond Bar.

Details: The Diamond Bar High School Theatre Arts Department will stage Shakespeare’s play in a contemporary setting, the love-peace movement of the late 1960s. Tickets may be purchased online at www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama (Adults $11/Students $9), or at the door (Adults $13/Students $11).

 

Howling Ball

When: Thurs., Oct. 23; 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue, Diamond Bar

Details: Adults 55 and older are invited to dress in Halloween costumes for this fun dinner/dance event. Tickets are $15 per person, including dinner and open soda bar.

Contact: For more information, call (909) 839-7068

 

“A Family Reunion To Die For”

When: Friday, Oct. 24; Saturday, Oct. 25; Saturday, Nov. 1; Dinner 6 p.m., Show 7 p.m.

Where: Walnut High School Multi-Purpose Room, 400 N. Pierre Road, Walnut

Details: All seats $15 to enjoy a comedy murder mystery and taco dinner (with all the trimmings, drinks and dessert). Tickets must be purchased at least one day in advance. Presented by the Walnut High School Drama Department.

Contact: For information and reservations, call Joanne Karr, (909) 594-1333, ext. 34212

City of West Covina’s Annual Dog Spooktacular

When: Saturday, Oct. 25, 2 to 4 p.m.

Where: Central Bark Dog Park, Del Norte Park, 1500 W. Rowland Ave., West Covina

Details: A Halloween Costume Contest for your pooch! This free event will include a pet customer contest with prizes, pet giveaways, and vendors form local pet stores. Registration is on site with the contest beginning at 2:30 p.m.

Contact: Department of Community Services, (626) 939-8864, or visit http://www.westcovina.org.

 

Annual Ghoster Park Halloween Hunt

When: Saturday, October 25, 7 to 10 p.m.

Where: Galster Park, 1620 E. Aroma Drive, West Covina

Details: The City of West Covina and the San Gabriel Mountains Regional Conservancy dare you to be scared at a night of spooky fun! Brave men will cry out for their ‘mummies’ on the Trail of Terror. There will also be Halloween activities, a costume contest, and other Halloween-inspired events. This is a free family event for the entire community.

Contact: Call the Community Services Department at (626) 919-6966, or visit www.westcovina.org

 

Haunted House

When: Thurs., Oct. 30 and Fri., Oct. 31; 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: Heritage Community Center, 2900 S. Brea Canyon Road, Diamond Bar

Details: Scary good fun for willing victims whose objective will be to find the exit! $5 per person; not recommended for children younger than 8 years of age.

Contact: For more information, call (909) 839-7070; coupons available at www.diamondbar.ca.gov/hhh.

 

Fall Fun Festival

When: Fri., Oct. 31; 4:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Where: Heritage Park, 2900 S. Brea Canyon Road, Diamond Bar

Details: Family fun for the little ones “too cute to spook,” ages 2 to 8. Games, prizes, candy, arts, crafts, photo ops and more, admission is $5 per child and includes ten games or crafts; admission is free for accompanying adults.

Contact: For more information, call (909) 839-7070.

 

Connections To The Future

When: Thursday, Nov. 6; 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Where: Rowland High School, 2000 S. Otterbein Avenue, Rowland Heights

Details: Business and community leaders will help high school students learn how to network and practice their presentation skills at a special luncheon event. Organized and facilitated by senior students in the award-winning Career Certification Program at Nogales and Rowland High Schools. Henry DiCarlo, Meteorologist for KTLA-TV Morning News is the keynote speaker.

Contact: For more information visit http://careerpathways.rowland.k12.ca.us; Business Leaders wanting to participate should call (626) 854-8303.

 

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.

 

Corona: Scary Good Fun At Crossroads Haunted Village

STAFF REPORTS

crossroads-haunted-village-2014

Chambers of the Mausoleum at Crossroads Haunted Village (Photo Courtesy: Crossroads Haunted Village)

Corona – The Crossroads Haunted Village is quickly becoming one of Southern California’s top Haunted Locations. The Village is the home of three permanent Haunted Houses: The Chambers of the Mausoleum, Labyrinth of Lost Relics and The Asylum at Coffin Creek. The Crossroads Haunted Village also offers the Nightmare Harvest (haunted) Trail, and The Shady Hollow Hay Ride.Crossroads is also excited to present the returning Pandemonium Magic Show (a 30-minute Illusion Show in an outdoor theater). Also featured will be the Dark Shadow Market, with vendors selling assorted wares, as well as food and hot/cold, non-alcoholic beverages.

There are two different ways to pay for the attractions. Single attraction tickets are available for $13, or you can purchase a haunted attraction package, good for all attractions (except the Pandemonium Magic Show) at a discounted price of $33. There is also a VIP Pass to avoid the long lines, bringing the total package cost to just $49. Pandemonium Magic Show tickets are $5; and Parking is $5 (cash only).

This delightfully haunting experience takes place Friday and Saturday nights, October 10-11; 17-18; 24-25; and Thursday night, Oct. 30, and Friday, Halloween night. The hours of each haunting are from 7 p.m. to midnight – with the Pandemonium Magic Show at 8 and 9:30 p.m.

Dare to be scared at Crossroads Riverview Park, just a short distance from the Diamond Bar/Walnut and Chino areas at 14600 Baron Drive, in Corona. More information is available at http://www.crhaunts.com.

Chino Hills: Smoke Alarm Saves Chino Hills Life

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino Hills – October is Fire Prevention Month, and Cal Fire reminds us that working smoke alarms save lives. That was certainly the case when a fire broke out in a two-story home on the 15000 block of Avenida Del Rio in Chino Hills.

The Chino Valley Fire District reports that they responded to a reported structure fire at approximately 3 p.m. on Tues., Oct. 14, and found smoke emanating from the second story. Firefighters made entry into the house and initiated an aggressive interior attack. The fire was quickly brought under control and contained to the area of origin with minimal fire extension to the attic. Two bedrooms sustained smoke damage.

The cause of the fire appears to be a candle left burning on a cabinet in an upstairs hallway. The owner was home at the time of the fire, and self-evacuated prior to firefighter arrival after being alerted to the fire by a working smoke alarm in the home. This incident might have had a very different outcome if the smoke alarm was not in proper working order.

The Chino Valley Fire District states that this type of fire can be prevented by following these safety rules:

  • Always keep a burning candle within sight
  • Never burn candles on or near anything that can catch fire
  • Always keep burning candles out of the reach of children and pets
  • Never use candles as a source of heat
  • Always use an appropriate candleholder and place it on a stable, heat-resistant surface
  • Always extinguish all candles when leaving the house, room of use, or when going to bed
  • Always ensure that you have smoke alarms correctly installed and that they are in good working order

Remember, having more than one properly placed smoke alarm can significantly increase your chance of surviving a fire. Be sure to test your smoke alarms regularly. For more information on fire safety and smoke alarms, visit www.chinovalleyfire.org.
 

Pomona: Arrest of Attempted Murder Suspects

STAFF REPORTS

albertos-restaurant-pomona

Alberto’s located at 1925 W. Holt Ave., attempted murder scene. (Photo Courtesy: Yelp)

Pomona – On Oct. 4, the Pomona Police Department (PPD) investigated a gang related shooting that occurred at the Alberto’s Restaurant located at 1925 W. Holt Ave. During this incident, three of four victims were shot, including one of the suspects involved.

The suspect that had been shot was identified as Christian Miranda, 21, of Pomona, and according to the PPD, it appears that he was accidentally shot by the other suspect during the gunfire. Suspect Miranda was arrested on the night of the shooting and has been charged with four counts of attempted murder.

Through investigative leads the detectives were able to identify the primary shooter as Derek Sommer, 25, of Pomona, and were able to obtain an arrest warrant for five counts of attempted murder with a bail of $5 million.

On Mon., Oct. 13, the PPD received an anonymous tip that the suspect from the Alberto’s shooting was in the apartment complex located in the 1800 block of West Orange Grove Avenue. Patrol officers responded to this location and were able to locate and arrest Suspect Sommer without any issues.

Suspect Sommer is being charged with five counts of attempted murder with gang and weapon enhancements. Suspect Miranda is being charged with four counts of attempted murder with gang and weapon enhancements. Both Sommer and Miranda are known gang members, and Suspect Sommer is also on AB109 probation.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Pomona Police Detective Bureau at (909) 620-2085. For anonymous tips, please contact Crime Stoppers (800) 222-8877 or We-Tip at (800) 782-7463. The Pomona Police Report Number is 14-111094.

Diamond Bar Seeking Veterans

STAFF REPORTS

 

vaterans-day-image

(Image Courtesy: Commerce.gov)

Diamond Bar – The City of Diamond Bar is seeking the names of veterans who are new to the community, or who have not previously been honored by the Diamond Bar City Council, so that they may be acknowledged during this year’s Veterans Recognition Ceremony.            The ceremony is taking place on Wed., Nov. 5, from 9 to 11 a.m. at the Diamond Bar Center. A live patriotic concert by the award-winning South Pointe Middle School Band, and a video featuring the first-hand wartime service experiences of several Diamond Bar veterans will be a part of the observance.

Admission to the event is free, but reservations are required. Secure your spot today by calling (909) 839-7070. The Diamond Bar Center is located at 1600 Grand Avenue.

If you – or someone you know – are a veteran who meets the above criteria, please contact the City of Diamond Bar at (909) 839-7000, to be included in this ceremony of appreciation.

 

Pomona: The Closure Of Lanterman Development Center

BY K.P. SANDER

lanterman-developmental-center

(Photo Courtesy: DDS)

Pomona – In January of 2010, the Department of Development Services (DDS) announced its intention to close the Lanterman Development Center (LDC), located in the City of Pomona on the borders of Diamond Bar and Walnut. The path toward closure has been a long and complex one.

The LDC, which occupies a little over 300 acres in Los Angeles County, has been providing 24/7 residential care for individuals with severe developmental disabilities for 87 years.

LDC opened its doors in 1927 with an acute hospital unit, nine client residences, a variety of training and work sites, recreational facilities, and staff amenities, and initially served over 3,000 residents.

According to their website, the mission of the LDC has always been to provide the highest quality services and supports to people with developmental disabilities who require concentrated health care and/or training to develop skills in which to enhance their independence – developing people’s highest potentials.

Once home to a multitude of individuals with cerebral palsy, epilepsy, Down’s syndrome, autism, and other lifelong severe mental conditions, the LDC strived to provide the utmost in care according to the laws and standards of the State of California. Their core values reflected SPIRIT: Service, Professional Commitment, Initiative and Creativity, Respect, Integrity, and Teamwork.

In 2009, the LDC had 440 residents, with approximately 12 admissions and 27 discharges per year. With more than 1,200 staff to oversee the care of individuals throughout the 192 onsite buildings, they facilitated around-the-clock care with an annual budget of nearly $116 million.

With the closure of LDC rapidly approaching, all this has quietly come to an end. In January 2010, there were less than 400 to care for, and as of Sept. 24, only 22 residents remain at the facility. Staff has been redeployed, laid off, or left through natural attrition.

The DDS has maintained that the well-being of all who live and work at Lanterman to be of the utmost concern and priority, and put procedures in place to ensure a safe and successful transition for residents from LDC.

In their summer newsletter regarding the status of the closure, the DDS reports that 322 residents of the LDC have been transitioned to the community; 85 homes for individuals moving from the LDC have been licensed in accordance with Senate Bill 856; and 47 former residents have moved into Adult Residential Facilities for Persons with Special Health Care Needs.

The DDS has made mention of the dwindling population and the condition of the aging infrastructure as contributing factors, and the impending closure leads to speculation of what will become of those 300 acres.

The LDC is scheduled to close on Dec. 31, 2014.

 

 

 

Walnut High’s Jeff Huang: A Leader On And Off Court

BY KELLI GILE

 

jeff-huang-champion-for-character

Walnut High School senior, Jeff Huang, has received the 2014 Jim Staunton Champions for Character Award. A banner is on display in the school office. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Walnut High School senior basketball player, Jeff Huang, has received the 2014 Jim Staunton Champions for Character Award. Huang was among 14 exceptional students lauded by the CIF Southern Section during a ceremony at the Queen Mary in Long Beach on Sept. 29.

The award is given to student-athletes, coaches, administrators and schools who best embrace good sportsmanship and the principals of “Pursuing Victory with Honor.” A total of 500 nominations were received for the prestigious recognition.

Student winners received a trophy, banner, letterman patch, and $750 scholarship.

Huang is a standout student who has received numerous accolades on and off the court. He has a 3.98 grade point average, and currently ranks 16th in his class of 748 students. Huang was recently named a semifinalist in the national merit scholarship program among the top 1% of students in the state. As a junior, he placed 2nd in the nation in business communication during the FBLA competition. He was also selected as the 2014 Mustang of the Year.

“Jeff is sharp, bright and social. He is one of our most amazing young people,” said Principal Jeff Jordan.

The 17–year old began playing on the Varsity basketball team as a freshman.   He displays sportsmanship, character, poise, confidence and calm under pressure.

“On the court, Jeff is the first person to help a teammate up from a fall, the first one to pat somebody on the back when they do well and the first to shake hands at the end of a contest,” said Athletic Director, Jerry Person, who nominated Huang for the award.

“He serves as a model of consistency on and off the basketball court and is a leader in everything he does,” Person added.

Huang has been president of the Class Cabinet for the past three years and an Interact Club member. Two years ago, he launched the Hoops for Hope Club to offer free sports clinics for elementary and middle school students.

“These kids can gain a lot from learning basketball. It can help you out for the rest of your life,” Huang said.

“My parents and brother have definitely been my inspiration,” he continued.

Hoops for Hope mirrors Huang’s relationship with his older brother, Brandon, who has been his longtime coach and mentor.

“He always gives me advice on how to react to certain things.” Huang said those words can be golden especially after a rough game. “He’ll say it’s just one bad game; what’s important is what you learn from it,” Huang recalled.

And after every loss, his brother is there to ask what he did poorly on so they can work on it together.

“He’s so supportive of me. Sometimes after the games he’s more excited about a win or good performance than I am. I learned everything I know from him,” said Huang.

Huang was surprised to have been recognized for sportsmanship and praised fellow team members whom he admires. He says during games he is “so focused on winning.”  But afterward, he makes sure he shakes hands and shows his appreciation.

“I’ll always go thank the people who work the scoreboard. They’re the unsung heroes,” he said.

Huang hopes to attend Stanford University or University of Pennsylvania in the fall.

 

 

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 10.18.14

20141018-weeklyThe 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 Oct18WeeklyAll to access the complete Oct. 181th, 2014 issue in pdf format.