Category Archives: The Weekly News

Walnut High Dedicates Athletic Building

BY KELLI GILE

 

Walnut High building dedication

Walnut High celebrated Bob Barilari during a building dedication on Oct. 1. Shown: Bob Barilari’s sister and brother-in-law, Joann and Bruce Wilson; daughters Kristin and Kimberly; Board Members Helen Hall, Larry Redinger, Cindy Ruiz, Dr. Tony Torng, and Retired Principal, Dr. Ken Gunn.

Walnut – Walnut High School paid tribute to long-time Mustang, Bob Barilari, during a building dedication on October 1. Current and retired staff members, coaches, alumni, family members, and district officials gathered for the afternoon ceremony.

Barilari served as the Boys’ Equipment Manager from 1970-2004. A plaque was unveiled dedicating the Boys’ Locker Room in his honor.

The special dedication celebrated Barilari’s legacy of relationships and friendships at the building where he spent over 70,000 hours of his life working and supporting thousands of people.

“Bobby started his legacy at Walnut High in 1970, and at that time, nobody would have realized the impact he would have on all of us 44 years later,” Principal Jeff Jordan said.

Barilari had many outstanding qualities, but the one that stands out the most was his ability to establish relationships with students, coaches, and teachers.

“Everyone knew Bob and Bob knew everything about everyone. Most of us that knew Bob would agree that he was caring, gentle, and big-hearted,” Jordan added.

Many of those friendships continued during retirement and through his battle with cancer. He passed away just one year ago, leaving a lasting impression at the school.

“Bobby didn’t realize it, but he was very inspirational to all of us,” said Jordan.

            “I don’t know if there’s a more prestigious honor than having a building dedicated to you on a school campus. There will be many, many people that will walk by and will stop and look at the plaque and start to tell stories and learn more about Bob as long as the school is here,” said Superintendent, Dr. Robert Taylor.

“Having someone like Bobby here on a daily basis made a real difference to students,” said Board President, Cindy Ruiz.

“Bobby was a special person,” said retired principal Dr. Ken Gunn. “No one’s going to walk through the doors of that locker room without thinking of him.”

            After the ceremony, several guests shared memories of their longtime friend. Girls’ Athletic Equipment Attendant, Connie Sanchez, worked with Barilari for over 20 years.

“He remembered everybody, remembered every game, the time, and history of the football team. He didn’t even need a pencil and paper. He was a wonderful, wonderful guy,” said Sanchez.

“He was always there for you,” said retired coach Anthony Gomez.

“He was so loving and caring. And he made friends wherever he went,” recalled teacher Mary Jo Gomez.

Three 1970’s alumni friends wouldn’t have missed the ceremony.  They got to know him as student-athletes and stayed in touch through the years.

“Bob was the man. And that building was his house,” recalled John McIntire.

“He meant a lot to us,” said Ron and Lynn Himes. “Bobby’s standout qualities were his genuineness and kindness,” they added.

“Bobby will never be forgotten here. His legacy will serve as a symbol of excellence that we can all strive for,” Jordan said.

Barilari was a huge USC fan.  As a tribute after the plaque unveiling, the WHS Band performed his favorite song- the Trojan Fight Song.

 

Getting Married

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

Someone told me recently that September has become the new big month for weddings. Traditionally we think of June weddings, but that doesn’t seem to be the case anymore.

From late August to the end of September, my wife and I attended four different weddings.

There was a wedding every week!

We enjoy attending weddings and sometimes I am asked to officiate.  Certainly each wedding is a special moment in the life of the families and couple involved.

One interesting pattern with all four of the weddings was that each one was held outdoors. Some were in lush garden settings, while others were in more remote, secluded settings.

I’m not sure what has happened to the traditional church wedding, but I have noticed that it is a growing trend to have weddings outdoors or in less traditional settings.

A number of different weddings are recorded in the Bible.  One of the most famous is the wedding that Jesus attended with His disciples in Cana of Galilee, found in the book of John, Chapter 2.

Another wedding is recorded in Genesis, Chapter 29.  In this passage, Jacob is tricked by his father-in-law and ends up with the wrong wife.  Jacob wanted to marry Rachel, but the father-in-law gave Jacob the veiled sister, Leah, instead!

Marriage is a special, God-given relationship.  In Genesis, Chapter 2, we read, “Therefore, a man shall leave his father and mother and cleave to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh”.

We’ll talk more about the “leaving and cleaving” in my next article.  But let me express my congratulations to the families and couples that got married during the past month.  It looks like you are in good company since September has become the new month to get married.

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.

Serving Satan

By Michael Armijo

Many years ago, while sitting in the audience at EV Free Church in Diamond Bar at the start of a new year, pastor Mark Hopper asked a very thought provoking question: “What are you going to do to minister God’s word to others this year?”

At first, I felt that showing up to church was enough; I’ve given up time and energy to be here ‘missing out’ on the rest of life so that I can pray to God and be a good person. This was a lot for me, so why should I do more than that for God?

And then I remembered all the things I did before I found Jesus: I lied to my fellow man; I became drunk with wine and spirits; I invited others to join me at the bar to get drunk; I had lust in my eye; I was envious, dishonest; and the list goes on. I was telling people, by my actions, that I was proud to be a sinner. And I subconsciously asked them to follow me.

It was at that time I realized something. Practicing all those sins really meant that I was serving Satan. I was promoting his sinning ways, and when I did it in front of others, I was encouraging them to practice sin, too. I was looking for victims who were lost to come join me in my debauchery, depression, and lust. I didn’t mean to do it intentionally, but it was intentional because I was practicing sin, over and over again.

So what’s the difference between serving Satan and serving God? Why shouldn’t I serve God? Why not be proud to be a Christian by practicing his word, praying openly in public, and answering the phone, “Praise the Lord.” Why not invite friends to church instead of to a bar? Why not spread the word about life, love, and the pursuit of Jesus? Why not?

Today I serve God’s word. Today I practice God’s love. In 1 John 4:18 I read, “Love is Fearless.” Today I love my children without fear. Today I love my wife without fear. Today I love my past without fear. Today I love my God without fear. Today I am no longer a prisoner, because today I no longer serve Satan.

Quality Comes First At Peterson Auto Repair

BY K.P. SANDER

peterson-auto-repair-center-walnut

Peterson Auto Repair Center is located at 3900-B Valley Boulevard, in the Big Valley Industrial Park. They can be reached at (909) 598-3881.

Walnut – If you are looking for a local automotive repair center that performs quality work at reasonable prices – and delivers it all with excellent service – look no further than Peterson Auto Repair Center.

Peterson now houses a full mechanic shop to serve all your automotive needs. They not only specialize in lube and oil changes, but also repair and maintain radiators, alternators, starters, brakes, clutches, shocks and struts, axles, air conditioning, belts and hoses, and much, much more.

In business for over 15 years, owner Eric Peterson says, “For me, it’s all about providing quality automotive repair for the neighborhood. I grew up in La Puente and Walnut, and we have so many good customers in this area. We really appreciate the business and word of mouth referrals.”

Carhelp.com customers agree, consisting giving Peterson high marks for quality workmanship and fair pricing.

Look for Peterson to add quality auto-body services to the business in the future.

Located at 3900-B Valley Boulevard in the City of Walnut, Peterson Auto Repair Center is open Monday through Saturday, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. They can be reached at (909) 598-3881. Mention their ad (see page 10 of this publication) and get an oil change for just $21.99 (plus tax and fees).

Walnut: 18th Annual Teddy Bear Tea

BY CECELIA YEH AND GAYLE PACHECO

 

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation is in the process of planning our 18th Annual Teddy Bear Tea, an event dedicated to recognizing the teachers and staff of the Walnut Valley Unified School District. The actual event will take place on Sat., Nov. 15, at the Royal Vista Golf Club.

A highlight of this year’s Tea will be the honoring of our 2013-2014 WVUSD Teachers and Classified Employee’s of the Year. This program recognizes educators and classified employees selected by their peers for living up to the school districts motto of “Kids First”. In addition to the recognition, this year’s Tea will feature a lovely luncheon, silent and live auctions, and a Raffle of truly delightful “Themed” Teddy Bear baskets. The goal of the event is to raise over $20,000 in funds to support “mini-grants” for the teachers and schools.

The Educational Foundation is passionate about our event this year. This is the marquee event for the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation, which, over the years, has funded over 500 grants to teachers for innovative classroom projects. Last year, a total of 51 grants were awarded which enabled our creative educators to demonstrate their gift for teaching by creating new ways to enrich student learning.  They included a variety of projects, including class sets of novels/books, math and science center supplies, field trips, classroom cameras, scanners, printers, CDs, foreign language books, cooking supplies, touch screen monitors, musical instruments, supplies for school nurse’s office, iPod Touch, materials for a vegetable garden, and library resources.

This year our Tea will feature a Souvenir Program in which you and your business may place an advertisement. Each ad page that we fill equates to one mini-grant funded. Please join the Educational Foundation in making this dream a reality. Every advertisement is substantial and will go a long way in the classrooms of our WVUSD schools.

If you have any questions about our tea or how to purchase your advertisement, please contact our donations chair, Cindy Ruiz, at (909) 973-9677 or at RuizsPeaces@msn.com. Information about the Tea may also be found on our Educational Foundation website at: www.wvef.educ.us/.

 

Walnut: City Council Recap October 8, 2014

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

walnut-valley-womens-club

City Council naming the Walnut Valley Women’s Club and Cheryl Linnborn as Grand Marshals for the Walnut Family Festival.

Walnut – Walnut’s City council started slightly behind schedule on Oct. 8 following a study session concerning the City’s proposed Aquatic Center, but quickly convened into regular business with proclamations for the Walnut Family Festival’s Grand Marshals, National Fire Prevention Week and various resolutions.

Mayor Nancy Tragarz started the meeting with recognition for the Walnut Valley Women’s Club and member Cheryl Linnborn for their years of effort and excellence. Tragarz and the other council members thanked the members of the Women’s Club as one of the longest standing clubs in the City and Linnborn’s tireless efforts for helping the Walnut Family Festival and Christmas Tree Lighting through the years.

“Your smiling face will always be appreciated in Walnut,” Tragarz said.

Tragarz then proclaimed October as Fire Prevention Month, putting an emphasis on keeping working fire alarms in all homes.

“Change batteries in your smoke alarm,” LA County Fire Chief Mario De Fino said. “They do save lives.”

Public comments largely focused on the changes to the Brookside neighborhood, with several residents asking the Council to stop housing developments that would further diminish the City’s equestrian trails.

The council then went on to approve the minutes for the Aug. 13 study session meeting and Sept. 10 City Council and Walnut Housing Authority minutes, along with the second reading of Ordinance No. 14-04 for establishing provisions for employee housing.

The Council then moved on to its consent calendar for the approval of claims and demands in the amount of $727,862.35, the authorization of certain records pursuant to Resolution No. 01-18, an award for a CalSense irrigation controller equipment and installation bid to ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance, Inc., and an award for street light improvements on Grand Avenue and Arcadia Way bid to MSL Electric, Inc.

Tragarz pulled Item 6 on the calendar, pertaining to a contract with Morse Planning Group for an environmental impact report for the proposed Brookside Specific Plan. Community Development Director, Tom Weiner, mentioned that the item only pertains to an environmental impact report and has nothing to do with the number of houses being developed.

Council Member, Mary Su, questioned Morse Planning Group as the agency to provide the environmental impact report and asked whether or not the land developers could choose two or three other agencies to do the report.

Collette Morse, AICP from Morse Planning Group, spoke to the council members, listing her years of professionalism with handling environmental impact reports and the services she could provide to the City.

After hearing from Morse, the Council agreed to table the item for a future meeting after seeing a resume and list of qualifications from Morse before they are officially hired to provide the environmental impact report.

Following the Council’s announcements, they adjourned into closed session with plans to meet again on Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. in the City Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

Eastvale: Eleanor Roosevelt High School’s Cross-Country Team

ERHS XC team Eleanor Roosevelt High School’s Cross-Country Team attended the prestigious Stanford University Cross Country Invitational. They did an amazing job with the boys’ team placing 10th, and the girls’ team placing 4th. Great job, ERHS!

 

Walnut’s Water Park Schematic Plan

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

Walnut-aquatic-park-city-presentation

City officials meeting with Aquatic Design Group Vice President, Justin Caron, as he presents a plan for the City’s proposed Aquatic Park.

Walnut – City officials met with a representative from the Aquatic Design Group on Wed., Oct. 8 for a study session event, outlining the schematic plans for the City’s proposed Aquatic Center and Amphitheater.

The Aquatic Center, planned for the 20000 block of Amar Road off Alta Sierra Road near Walnut Ranch Park, has been a long-time desire for some residents who have called for a municipal pool site in Walnut for years.

More than ten residents attended the meeting, where Aquatic Design Group Vice President, Justin Caron, outlined various ideas for what the park could host, including slides, three pools, a water spray park, locker rooms, an amphitheater, reception areas and more. Furthermore, the plan outlined 333 parking spaces to ensure space for the lots even when the pools, park and amphitheater are in use.

Mary Rooney, Community Services Director, said the flexibility of the slides and splash areas would be ideal for Walnut’s weather, with easy maintenance, fast ways to drain the excess amenities during the winter months, and the ability to refill and staff the slides and splash areas if a heat wave hits the City.

Rooney said that while the entire basis of the study session was to show a rough idea of what the park would look like, the plan’s outline is a good enough to show the public and City Council for further deliberation.

“Now you have a concept,” Rooney said. “Now you have something to walk with to show your constituents…nothing is set in stone, but we would like your feedback.”

Caron said the total estimated cost for the entire project would cost the City $19.9 million, with a breakdown of $3.6 million for site work, $532,000 for utilities, $3.8 million for construction of buildings, $600,000 for the amphitheater, $4.7 million for the pools, and an estimated $6.7 million for contractors, insurance, bonds and construction contingencies.

When pressed by councilmember Eric Ching, Caron suggested an estimated general admission fee of $5 to $7 for adult, with the possibility of cheaper rates for Walnut residents and higher fees for non-residents. However, he mentioned that the City can choose to set admission prices at whatever they wanted when the project reached its completion.

Councilmember, Tony Cartagena, said he was “very excited” at the thought of the City’s plans coming to fruition, stating that the planned amenities are extensive and impressive.

Attendees were mostly optimistic about the project, yet most of the hesitance from residents centered on parking and traffic studies.

Walnut resident, Claudine Stines, said she has been a supporter for the Aquatic Center for years, but that the latest schematics might not have sufficient parking for all the proposed features.

Walnut resident, Gary Gidcumb, said that while he liked the idea of Walnut having a recreational pool, he would like to see a traffic study done for the area to ensure a safe traffic flow. Gidcumb described the schematic plans as “too much,” and that if the City scaled back some of its ideas, it would be more likely to complete its long-time project.

“I’d like to see a pool in Walnut,” Gidcumb said. “Hopefully, before I’m 100 years old.”

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 10.11.14

weekly-news-cover-page-10.11.14The 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 Oct11WeeklyNews  to access the complete Oct. 11th, 2014 issue in pdf format.

Diamond Bar: Local Kmart To Close

STAFF REPORTS

 

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar Kmart, located at 249 S. Diamond Bar Boulevard, is closing its doors. According to the store manager at that location, the last day of business will be conducted on Sun., Dec. 7. The manager further states that all sales to reduce inventory have already gone into effect, and signs advertising up to 80% off have been posted. Post closure, all remaining inventory will be reverted back to the corporation for distribution to other Kmart locations.

Revenue losses are suspected at the helm of the closure, although calls to Kmart’s corporate office in Illinois were not returned. A loss of customer traffic is sure to fuel some of the conjecture.

Yelp comments on this particular Kmart store consistently report dismal and rude customer service, with a common rating of only one star. One customer in particular wrote, “I wish I could give ZERO stars. This Kmart never fails to disappoint. Don’t expect any customer service here, because you won’t find any in this store. I’ve walked out angry and disappointed multiple times…”

If customer services is not your top priority, you still may be able to find some significant savings between now and December 7.

 

Inland Empire: Temecula Cyberstalker Gets 5 Years In Prison

STAFF REPORTS

Temecula – The owner of a Temecula art gallery who stalked, harassed and attempted to extort as much as $300,000 from art world professionals was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Jason White, 43, of Temecula, who pleaded guilty in March to two counts of federal stalking, was sentenced on Mon., Sept. 29, by United States District Judge, Stephen V. Wilson.

During the hearing, Judge Wilson called White’s crimes “horrendous” and “very disturbing.”

White was arrested by the FBI on Feb. 12 after engaging in a six-month stalking and extortion scheme that targeted art world professionals with whom he had had business relationships. When those business relationships ended, White posted derogatory information about his former associates on websites he had created, and then used threatening emails to demand hundreds of thousands of dollars in exchange for taking the websites down. White repeatedly made extortionate demands through harassing text messages and emails, and when his demands were not met, he threatened violence against the victims’ families, including their children.

“Given the ominous, angry and relentless nature of the messages, the victims had a reasonable fear that the defendant planned to hunt down and kill their spouses and children,” prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memo filed with the court. “Indeed, this case is a parent’s worst nightmare that will likely haunt the victims for the rest of their lives because they will always be fearful that defendant may find their children and make good on his threats.”

In one part of the scheme, White targeted his former employer, an art publisher, as well as White’s supervisor at the art publisher’s company. After creating derogatory websites in the art publisher’s name, White allegedly sent threatening text messages to the art publisher, the publisher’s son, and his former supervisor. In a text message to his former supervisor, he threatened to find her family and make her pay with “fear, anguish and pain.” On several occasions, White obtained pictures of her child and sent pictures of the child to the victim with comments such as, “It will be very unfortunate if something was to happen to him.”

According to the government’s sentencing position papers, White’s “conduct also demonstrates a disturbing and escalating pattern of stalking conduct, particularly since he committed these crimes less than one year after a restraining order was filed against him by another former employer for identical cyber stalking and extortion conduct. As defendant intended, his stalking crimes traumatized his victims.”

During the sentencing hearing, two of the victims spoke, telling Judge Wilson how they felt terrorized by the barrage of threatening emails and texts that White sent them.

The case against White was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Art Crime Team.

Straight Talk With Danice

BY DANICE AKIYOSHI, N.D.

 

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

My niece is having her wedding on a cruise ship. Over 20 people from our family are invited to join them on this cruise. My niece asked me if I would book the largest stateroom so I can babysit the youngest kids who aren’t old enough for the kids club. This way, everyone is free to drink and go to the casino late at night. I don’t drink or gamble very often, but that doesn’t mean I want the task of nightly babysitting. I want to have fun, too. Now I’m not looking forward to the trip at all. I would feel guilty if I cancelled. I already said I would go, and everyone just assumes I will babysit because I’m not as wild as they are. I feel like I’m not really a guest at all. What should I do?

-Auntie M.

Dear Auntie:

It’s time for a family meeting. Explain that you look forward to doing your part with the youngest members of the family in the evenings. Then present a schedule with the names of all the viable babysitters. Assign a night to each capable party or couple. They are free to switch and trade off if they like, but make it clear that you intend to enjoy yourself too, even if you don’t choose to drink and gamble. Do not feel guilty when you resist being taken advantage of. Have fun!

-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.

 

 

 

Redemption

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

 

One day, my friend told me a story about a freshman in high school named David that touched me so deeply. This is what I call, Redemption:

David saw a kid named Ron walking home from school. It looked like Ron was carrying home all of his books, which was strange because classes aren’t all on the same day. He thought to himself, “Why would anyone bring home all his books on a Friday? He must really be a nerd.” But he shrugged his shoulders and went on.

As he was walking, David saw a bunch of kids running toward Ron, knocking his books out of his arms and tripping him. Ron’s glasses went flying and landed in the grass. When David handed the glasses to him, he looked up he saw this terrible sadness in Ron’s eyes. Somehow he felt his pain.

David said, “Those guys are jerks. They really should get lives.”

Ron looked at him and lowly said, “Thanks.”

There was a slight smile on Ron’s face. It was one of those smiles that showed real gratitude. David helped him pick up his books, and as it turned out, Ron lived near David. They talked all the way home and Ron turned out to be a pretty cool kid.

Over the next four years, Ron and David became best friends. When they were seniors, they began to think about college. Ron decided on Georgetown, and David was going to Duke. They knew that they’d always be friends, and that the miles would never be a problem.

Ron became valedictorian of their class, and had to prepare a speech for graduation. David was so glad that he didn’t have to get up there and speak.

On graduation day Ron looked great. He was one of those guys that really found himself during high school. All the girls loved him. David was just jealous. He could see that Ron was nervous about his speech, so David smacked him on the back and said, “Hey, big guy, you’ll be great!” He looked at David with one of those looks (that really grateful one) and smiled.

As he started his speech, he cleared his throat, and began.

“Graduation is a time to thank those who have helped you make it through those tough years; your parents, your teachers, your siblings, maybe a coach…but mostly, your friends. I am here to tell all of you that being a friend to someone is the best gift you can give them. I’m going to tell you a story.”

David looked at his friend with disbelief as he told the story of the first day they met. Ron talked of the day he had cleaned out his locker. He talked of how he was distraught about his life. He talked about how lonely he was. So lonely, he had planned to kill himself that weekend. But he didn’t, because his new friend unknowingly stepped in. He showed kindness. He showed compassion. He showed, by his actions, that life is worth the struggle. Ron looked hard at David and gave him a little smile.

“Thankfully, I was saved,” David continued. “My friend saved me from doing the unspeakable.”

David heard the gasp go through the crowd as this handsome, popular boy told them about his weakest moment. He saw Ron’s mom and dad looking at him and smile with that same grateful smile. Not until that moment did David realize its depth.

It was then that David realized how important it is to never underestimate the power of one’s actions. With one small gesture you can change a person’s life – for the better, or for the worse.

The most compelling element about the story of Ron and David’s friendship is how it relates to so many lives. Personally, I’ve hoped that somewhere within my past that I’ve been a “David” to someone I’ve met. And what fills my spirit with even more emotion is that I know I’ve felt like a “Ron” many times. What perplexes me is that I don’t know which role I’ve felt more often.

Someone once said, “Friends are angels who lift us to our feet when our wings have trouble remembering how to fly.” To so many, each day, this is true. I’ve always valued my friends with depth and sincerity. I’ve always believed in the importance of being friends, and the importance of having friends.

As the story continues, it emphasizes that there is no beginning or end. Yesterday is history. Tomorrow is mystery. But today is a gift. This reminds me that giving the ultimate gift of friendship is what I call the inner spirit of your heart, and that gives us the true feeling of redemption.

Weather Conditions

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

When people ask me about the weather in California, I usually try to explain it like this. It is a contest between the desert and the ocean.  The hot dry winds push in from the north and east, and the cool ocean breezes push back from the south and west.

We are caught in a tug-of-war between these two imposing forces. Fortunately, the ocean usually dominates our weather and as a result we get morning fog and cool afternoon breezes.

But when the hot, dry Santa Ana winds prevail and the heat builds up, the air conditioning bills skyrocket. We all felt the effects of the heat during the past few weeks.  And, we will see the increased electric bills in another few weeks.

My wife and I grew up in Arizona.  The past few days felt like we were back in Arizona.  The days were really hot and the evenings provided little relief.  Everyone you talked to would comment about the heat. In the Phoenix area it is not uncommon to have over 100 days a year that are over 100 degrees. The low temperature at night often does not get below 90 degrees. It stays hot all summer.

There are a lot of things that I do miss about Arizona, but one thing I do not miss is the long, hot summer.

I heard the story of a pastor who was asked to help start a new church in Arizona.  After thinking about the invitation for a while, he replied, “There are three reasons that I think that God does not want me to move to Arizona…June, July and August!”

Someone said that God uses adversity and discomfort to get our attention.  The hot, dry weather we have experienced certainly got our attention.  It reminds us of how we expect comfort and convenience.  It reminds us of how fortunate we are to have air-conditioned homes and cars, offices and classrooms.

I hope that the weather is a little cooler by the time you are reading this article.  Let me encourage you to be thankful for the comforts you enjoy and don’t complain when the weather warms up for a few days. Just remember, you could be living in Arizona!

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.

Mind Changing Meditation

BY NANCY STOOPS

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with her certified therapy dog Midnight.

Since I was 17 years of age, I have been meditating. I think it is the healthiest and most effective way to clear one’s mind. Meditation can be done anywhere and anytime and does not require anything but discipline and a willingness to be patient, because to achieve total meditation takes years. I love meditation because I don’t need to use pills or alcohol to relax and quiet my mind.

Some time ago, a school district did a study with their students and the effects of daily meditation. They found that their students were able to focus and concentrate better and in turn their grades and their test scores improved drastically. They found their students to be less angry and the number of school infractions went down as well. They noticed their students having a much improved mindset, being happier and more balanced. This idea could have a profound effect on students with Attention Deficient Disorder.

So take five minutes from your day and find a quiet place. Pick one word to focus on, and just think about that word. When other thoughts come rushing back in, go back to your word to push away the thoughts. Start with small increments of time and then extend the time you are meditating based on your newly acquired skills. I like the word, “peace,” as it seems to work very well for me.

I know that I’m a much more efficient human being because I have a pretty quiet mind, and I attribute that to all the years of daily meditation. The goal of meditation is to clear your mind of all thought, acquiring total inner peace. You will sleep better and feel much happier and more balanced.

So, do yourself a favor and start the daily practice of meditation today. I promise if you practice consistently you will literally transform yourself and your life. I wish you peace.

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.

Did You Know?

BY K.P. SANDER

With the recent finding of a deceased newborn found at a recycling facility in Hesperia, Los Angeles County Supervisor, Don Knabe, is reminding the public about the County’s Safe Surrender program.

“Awful tragedies like what occurred in Hesperia are a reminder to mothers that there is always an option for their baby,” said Knabe. “The Safe Surrender program was created to give a mother – no matter what the situation – a safe, secure and anonymous way to get her child into safe hands.”

Knabe says that 122 lives have been saved by this program, but there is still much work to be done.

Some parents of newborns can find themselves in difficult, if not critical, circumstances. Feelings of fear and not knowing where to turn can sometimes lead to harm or abandonment of these infants. But there is a choice, a very good choice that is easily available.

California’s Safely Surrendered Baby Law gives parents the choice to legally and safely surrender their baby at any hospital or fire station in Los Angeles County, with no blame, no shame, and no names. It is a matter of going to any safe surrender site within 72-hours of the baby’s birth; filling out a voluntary and anonymous medical history form (or taking one home and mailing it back later) to help provide medical care for the baby; and obtaining an I.D. bracelet that matches one that will be fastened to the baby’s ankle. The bracelet helps reunite the parent with the baby if they change their mind within 14 days. No other questions will be asked.

Three newborns were safety surrendered this past July, one in them in Pomona. These infants now have the opportunity to live and thrive in a nurturing environment, possibly with parents that were unable to have their own child for one reason or another.

With the Safe Surrender program, newborns like the baby girl found at the Hesperia waste disposal plant on Oct. 1 will have a chance at life, instead of a horrific end.

Visit babysafela.org, or call (877) 222-9723, for more information.

Anyone with information regarding this Oct. 1, 2014 incident is urged to contact Detective Christine Kirby or Sergeant Jason Radeleff of the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division at (909) 387-3589. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-Crim,e or you may leave information on the We-Tip website www.wetip.com. 

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Friends of the Taylor House Artist on the Porch Summer/Fall Series

When: October 12; 1 to 4 p.m.

Where: Heritage Gardens Park, 3510 East Cameron Avenue, West Covina

Details: September event will feature craftsman period stained glass with Renn Hjellum-Lim.

Contact: For this and future events, visit facebook.com/taylorhousecraftsmanhome

 

The Chino Hills Historical Society Presentation

When: Monday, October 13

Where: Chino Hills Community Center, 14250 Peyton Drive

Details: Local historian, Allen P. McCombs will give a presentation on, “Chino Valley’s Role in How the West Was Won.” This event was previously scheduled on Sept. 15.

Contact: Call (909) 597-2051, or email chhistory@aol.com

 

City of Hope Blood Drive

When: Thurs., Oct. 16, 12:45 to 7 p.m.

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

Contact: Call (909) 861-2740 for appointments, and be sure to bring your ID to the event.

 

World Famous Glenn Miller Orchestra Concert and Dinner

When: Saturday, Oct. 19; 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Dinner at 5 p.m.

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

Details: The Walnut High School Jazz Orchestra will share the stage with the legendary Glenn Miller Orchestra for an evening of musical memories. There will also be a BBQ dinner in between shows. Proceeds from this very special event will benefit the Walnut High School Instrumental Music Department. All seats $30; BBQ Dinner $15

Contact: For more information call, (909) 594-BAND; for tickets visit http://www.seatyourself.biz/walnutmusic.

 

Bark For Life 5K

When: Saturday, October 18, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Boys Republic High School, 1907 Boys Republic Drive, Chino Hills

Details: The American Cancer Society Bark For Life honors the care-giving qualities of canine companions. Bring your best Canine Friend and join the non-competitive walk around the track, followed by demos, games, contests, awards and dog adoptions. $25 per dog; $5 per person. Raise funds and awareness in the fight against cancer.

Contact: Visit www.relayforlife.org/barkchinoca, or email Jennifer Rudin at bflchinoeventchair@gmail.com.

 

Free Intervention Information Sessions

When: Third Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m.

Where: Charter Oak Hospital, 1161 E. Covina Blvd., Covina

Details: Free information sessions about the intervention process, a powerful tool to combat alcoholism and addition. Open to the public, space is limited and reservations are recommended.

Contact: Aurora Charter Oak Hospital, (626) 859-5269, or visit http://www.charteroakhospital.com.

 

Free ESL and Citizenship Classes

When: Monday through Thursday, 9 to 11 a.m.; or Monday through Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: 2100 Lerona Avenue, Rowland Heights

Details: Rowland Adult & Community Education is now offering free English as a Second Language and Citizenship courses to adult students this summer due to a grant received from the Majestic Reality Foundation in the City of Industry.

Contact: Call (626) 965-5975, or visit http://race.rowland.k12.ca.us.

 

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: Multiple Fatality Vehicle Collision in Chino

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino – On Fri., Oct. 3, at approximately 8:45 p.m., the Chino Police Department responded to a multiple vehicle collision on Pine Avenue, between Meadowhouse and Mill Creek avenues.

The City of Chino has reported that three vehicles were involved, two of which were engulfed in flames. The collision resulted in five confirmed fatalities.

Physical evidence and eyewitness statements indicate the driver of a 2000 Chevrolet pickup was traveling at an unsafe speed at the time of the collision. The driver lost control of the vehicle and crossed into the eastbound lane of traffic colliding with a 2013 Honda that was driving eastbound on Pine Avenue.

The third vehicle, a 2002 Honda Civic, driven by Oscar Flores, 36, of Ontario, was traveling eastbound on Pine Avenue behind the 2013 Honda Accord. The vehicles collided when the Chevrolet truck and the Honda Accord traveled westbound on Pine Avenue in the eastbound lane. Flores suffered minor injuries and was treated and released at the scene.

The four occupants of the Chevrolet truck who were killed in the collision have been identified as Andrew Anthony Deleon, 19, of Eastvale; Alex Emiliano Horta, 19, of Eastvale; Nathan Dominguez, 19, of Eastvale; and Nathaniel Trinidad Marin, 20, also of Eastvale.

The driver of the 2013 Honda Accord, who was also killed, has been identified as Luis Ayala Mendoza, 47, of Corona.

This collision is still under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

Walnut One Of Top Ten Cities In So Cal

STAFF REPORTS

Walnut – The City of Walnut, nearly nine square miles of suburban living in the beautiful southern slopes of the San Jose Hills. Residents enjoy a peaceful ambiance, close enough to Los Angeles to enjoy many amenities and activities, but tucked far enough away to retain a charming, small-town feel.

CreditDonkey – a credit card comparison website that publishes data-driven analyses to help customers save money and make savvy financial decisions – recently published a study that evaluated the best cities to raise a family in Southern California.

The criterion used to determine the top cities was based upon populations of 25,000 plus; education levels; housing costs; household types; commute times; and residency. CreditDonkey studies have shown that the more educated residents are, the higher their quality of life seems to be.

Walnut, or Rancho de Nogales as it was originally known (Ranch of the Walnut Trees) – ranked at number nine out of ten in this particular study. Overall, the top cities highlighted are: 1) Poway; 2) Manhattan Beach; 3) South Pasadena; 4) Lake Forest; 5) Moorpark; 6) Rancho Santa Margarita; 7) Rancho Palos Verdes; 8) Cypress; 9) Walnut; and 10) Santee.

The City of Walnut has also been ranked in Money Magazine’s “America’s Best Small Towns” study in 2009 and 2011.

For more details on this study’s statistics, visit CreditDonkey.com.

Walnut Valley Names Grammy Music Educator Semifinalists

BY KELLI GILE

Diamond Bar High’s instrumental music director Steve Acciani

Diamond Bar High’s semifinalist is instrumental music director Steve Acciani. DBHS received the 2014 National Grammy Signature School Award. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Two Walnut Valley teachers have been named semifinalists for the 2015 Grammy Music Educator Award.

Instrumental Music Directors Steve Acciani from Diamond Bar High School and Dr. Buddy Clements from Walnut High School are among 25 semifinalists recently announced by The Recording Company and The Grammy Foundation.

For the second year, the Music Educator Award will recognize an outstanding music teacher who has made a significant and lasting contribution to the field of music education and who demonstrates a commitment to the broader cause of maintaining music education in the schools.

“This honor has me very humbled, but also extremely proud of what our community is accomplishing through the amazing collaborative efforts and vision of our school staff, local professional musicians, business partners, parents, and the best students ever,” Acciani stated.

“To have two schools in the same school district receive this distinction is amazing!” Clements said after hearing the news. Both music teachers were selected as quarterfinalists in June.

“It would be the ultimate honor for me to represent music educators all over our nation, especially those who have devoted decades of their lives to teach their students not only about the joy of music but also how music can touch souls, heal broken spirits, mend shattered lives, build bridges across social canyons of injustice and prejudice… and because of this our love of music can be a worthy, life-long quest for excellence, compassion, creativity and expression,” said Clements.

This year, 7,000 nominations were submitted from all 50 states. The 25 semifinalists come from 25 cities across 17 states.

All semifinalists will have the chance to earn $6,000 for their music department through the Ford Drive 4 UR School program.

Ten finalists will be announced in December and will be recognized for their remarkable impact on students.

The winner will be announced during Grammy week in February 2015 and will be flown to Los Angeles to accept the award and a $10,000 honorarium.

For every performer who makes it to the Grammy stage, there was a special teacher who played a critical role in getting them there. It’s time to say thank you to all the teachers who put in the extra hours to instill the love of music in their students. And that’s just what the people who bring the Grammy Awards plan to do with this award!

Congratulations and thank you, Mr. Acciani and Dr. Clements!