Category Archives: The Weekly News

Diamond Bar: Council Corner

BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR

 

Diamond Bar City HallDiamond Bar – During the July 15 meeting, the Diamond Bar City Council addressed a light agenda calendar which included a discussion of the following steps for three of the City’s Lighting and Landscape Assessment Districts (LLAD), approval of minutes from a study session regarding updates to the Grand Avenue Beautification Project, and ratification of an expenditure totaling more than $1 million in City funds for green building construction, legal consultants and health insurance benefits, among other items.

In a written report made public by City Manager, James DeStefano, he stated the purpose of the July 1 study session was to provide the City Council with more details on the Grand Avenue Beautification Project. According to the report, the concept was first discussed with the Council in April. Since that time, the Public Works Department team has been designing the project and preparing for construction.

Upon City Council approval, the project will go to Caltrans for review, after which it will move to the design and construction phases. 53 residents attended an open house earlier this year to review the concept plans and give input on what the community wanted to see as part of the final design. Some of the votes of elements for the final design included decorative traffic signal poles, the diamond shape representative of the City, and interlocking pavers in parkways and medians.

The Public Works Department staff reported that all improvements presented during the study session totaled about $1.5 million with available resources at $1.7 million. There is no general fund money committed to the project according to Public Works Director, David Liu. Staff estimated the project to begin in October after all the design plans and specs are sent to Caltrans for their review, which could take up to three months to complete.

In other actions, the Council approved the recommendations from its Lighting and Landscape Assessment District subcommittee and consultants from SCI (experts in the field of assessment engineering and levy administration related to LLAD) to discuss options to reduce ongoing general fund subsidies to the districts. The districts primarily maintain public rights-of-way, medians and parkways throughout the City, consisting of mini parks, slopes and open space areas totaling 60.45 acres, and small turf areas located primarily in the southwestern side of the city including the Ronald Reagan Park neighborhoods and Brea Canyon cut-off, among other areas, respectively.

Council members lauded City staff and members of the Parks and Recreations Department for their work on the City’s 4th of July Celebration, which included 25 minutes of fireworks to commemorate the Diamond Bar’s 25th Anniversary.

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council takes place on Aug. 5 at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive.

 

 

City of Industry: IMC Hosts Legislative Update Breakfast July 25th

The Industry Manufacturers Council will host a Legislative Update Breakfast on Friday, July 25th. The program, presented by California Assemblyman Curt Hagman, will be Business-Related Legislation Currently Under Consideration in Sacramento. The Breakfast will be held at the Pacific Palms Resort, One Industry Hills Parkway in the City of Industry. Breakfast is at 7:30 with the program beginning at 8am and concluding at 9am. Cost of the breakfast is $20. Please RSVP at 626-968-3737.

industry-manufacturers-council-breakfast

Chino: New Police Chief

STAFF REPORTS

 

New-Chino-Police-Chief-Karen-Comstock

New Chino Police Chief, Karen Comstock (Photo Courtesy: City of Chino)

Chino – On Tues., July 15, during the regularly scheduled City Council meeting, City Manager, Matt Ballantyne, announced that Captain Karen Comstock will become the new Police Chief upon the retirement of current Police Chief, Miles Pruitt. Chief Pruitt will retire effective Dec. 4, 2014.

“This is an exciting time for Chino,” said Ballantyne. “Karen is a homegrown product of this community and the Department. She was raised in Chino, graduated from Don Lugo High School, and her family still has roots here. Karen has been an active part of this community for many years. Her knowledge of the community combined with her experience and training will serve her well as she transitions into her new position as Chief,” Ballantyne added.

Captain Comstock began her career with the Department in 1985, when she became a Police Explorer. She worked her way up through the organization and became a Cadet and later a Reserve Officer; she was hired as a Police Officer in 1990. Since that time, she has held a number of positions and has served as a Field Training Officer, Patrol Supervisor, Detective Bureau Supervisor, and was a member of the Crisis Negotiations Team. She has worked as a Detective in the Criminal Investigations Bureau and in the Background Investigation Unit. She filled the role of Deputy Chief for three months, while Chief Pruitt served as the Acting City Manager in 2012. Comstock was promoted to the rank of Captain in 2009.

“Chino is an amazing community and I feel blessed to have grown up here and to have served the residents and members of the business community for so many years,” said Comstock. “The men and women of the Chino Police Department are amongst the best and brightest in law enforcement today; I am honored and look forward to serving the community in my new capacity as Chief,” she said.

Captain Comstock holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management and a Master’s Degree in Organizational Management, both from the University of Phoenix. She is also a graduate of the Supervisory Leadership Institute. Comstock will be the 17th Chief to lead the Chino Police Department and the first female to proudly serve in this capacity.

 

Chino Hills: Assemblyman Hagman Reacts to Death Penalty Ruling

STAFF REPORTS 

Sacramento – Assemblyman Curt Hagman (R-Chino Hills) expressed his disappointment and frustration with U.S. District Court Judge Cormac J. Carney’s ruling on Wed., July 16 declaring California’s death penalty unconstitutional because the lengthy and unpredictable delays violate the Eighth Amendment’s prohibition against cruel and unusual punishment.

 

“I am not disputing the fact that California’s death penalty procedures are dysfunctional,” said Assemblyman Hagman. “It takes decades for a sentence to be carried out due to appeals, court orders, ever-changing regulations, and other red tape. The solution is not to abolish the death penalty all together but rather to fix these unnecessary and burdensome barriers. What about the families of the victims? They suffer cruel and unusual punishment waiting for justice to be served.”

 

Assemblyman Hagman added that California’s citizens continue to support the death penalty and the will of the people should not be silenced by one judge’s decision. In 2012, an attempt to eliminate capital punishment was rejected by voters.

 

A moratorium was put on the death penalty in 2006 by another district judge calling for changes to the current lethal injection procedures. These changes have yet to be approved.

Becoming Who We’re Intended to Be

BY NANCY STOOPS

 

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

I believe we are all born with an incredible potential to be our best. I think that there is a plan for our lives. Within that plan is an interpretation of us at our absolute personal best. My goal has always been to keep growing and functioning at my optimum each and every day. I believe that if I do this, I will grow into the person I’m intended to be. This is my way of honoring my life and my creator.

Life isn’t always an easy thing and many curve balls will be thrown our way. Having lost one brother to suicide, another to murder, and a father to pancreatic cancer has taught me how vulnerable we all are. It has also made me feel so very blessed to still be alive and well.

I don’t just want to go through my life living to die; instead I have always died to live. I want to be my best so that I can experience my life fully. I live my life very passionately and want to feel all of it.

It is very hard work to examine the pieces of yourself that get in the way of being who you are intended to be. It’s even harder work to have the courage to let go of these dysfunctional pieces. Most of these pieces have been a part of us for a long time, and serve some dysfunctional purpose that we have grown to rely on. It’s in really learning to let go that will allow us to become who we are intended to be. This gut-wrenching, but very worthwhile, personal work can lead us into total inner peace and contentment.

This article was written by Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens. For more information about any of these services feel free to page her at (626) 935-3818. You may also email her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. Nancy’s book, “Live, Heal and Grow” is available for purchase at http://www.RoseDogBookstore.com or Amazon.com

 

The Carpenter

By Michael Armijo

 

I received an email a while back that has always resonated with me. I find myself thinking about it from time to time, as the words it contained often remind me to work hard and be proud of what I’ve accomplished. It has encouraged me to continue to keep my heart within my work, as you never know what life will bring you. It is good advice, no matter who you are or what you do, and I share it with you now.

The Carpenter: An elderly carpenter was ready to retire. He told his employer of his plans to leave the house-building business and live a more leisurely life with his wife and extended family. He would miss the paycheck, but he needed to retire. They could get by.

The employer, who was sorry to see his good worker go, asked if he would build just one more house as a personal favor. The carpenter said yes, but in time it was easy to see that his heart was not in his work. He resorted to shoddy workmanship and used inferior materials. It was an unfortunate way to end a dedicated career.

When the carpenter finished his work the employer came to inspect the house. He handed the front-door key to the carpenter. “This is your house,” he said, “my gift to you for all of your hard work and dedication.”

The carpenter was shocked; what a shame! If he had only known he was building his own house, he would have done it all so differently.

So it is with us. We build our lives, a day at a time, often putting less than our best into the building. Then with a shock we realize we have to live in the house we’ve built. If we could do it over, we’d do it much differently. But we cannot go back.

You are the carpenter. Each day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall. “Life is a do-it-yourself project,” someone once said. Your attitudes and the choices you make today, build the “house” you live in tomorrow. Build wisely, and remember: Work like you don’t need the money. Love like you’ve never been hurt. Dance like no one is watching. Enjoy life like it’s your last day on Earth.

Inland Empire: Grant Assistance Program Awarded by California Alcoholic Beverage Control Fights Alcohol-Related Crime

CITY OF EASTVALE

 

Inland Empire – The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has been awarded a $98,315.00 grant from the California Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) for 2014-2015. The grant will help fund operations for a number of programs to battle alcohol-related crime, combat underage drinking, and educate licensees about alcoholic beverage laws. The grant will cover those cities serviced by the Jurupa Valley Station, Perris Station, and Thermal Station. Those cities include Canyon Lake, Coachella, Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, La Quinta, Menifee, Norco, and Perris.

The grants strengthen local law enforcement efforts by combining the efforts of local police officers and ABC agents. ABC agents have expertise in alcoholic beverage laws and can help communities reduce alcohol-related problems.

The Grant Assistance Program was created in 1995 to strengthen partnerships between ABC and local law enforcement agencies. The program is designed to put bad operators out of business, keep alcohol away from minors and bring penalties such as fines, suspensions or revocations against businesses that violate laws.

The funds will be used to reduce the number of alcoholic beverage sales to minors and obviously intoxicated patrons, the illegal solicitations of alcohol and other criminal activities such as the sale and possession of illegal drugs.

Officers in each city will battle alcohol-related crime by conducting Minor Decoy and Shoulder Tap Decoy operations, Trapdoor operations, Informed Merchants Preventing Alcohol-Related Crime Tendency (IMPACT), and classes for licensees and their employees that are taught through ABC’s Licensee Education on Alcohol and Drugs (LEAD) program.

  • Minor Decoy operations are compliance checks in which teenagers, under the direct supervision of police officers, attempt to purchase alcohol from retail ABC licensees.
  • The Shoulder Tap program targets adults who purchase alcohol for minors on or around ABC licensed businesses. Minor decoys, under the direct supervision of police officers, approach and ask patrons of stores, bars or restaurants to buy them alcohol.
  • Trapdoor Operations involve officers, local ABC agents, and alcohol retailers working together to reduce underage access to alcohol by halting the use of false or stolen identifications.
  • The IMPACT program is to reduce alcohol related crime in and around ABC licensed premises through inspections.
  • The LEAD program provides practical information on serving alcoholic beverages safely and responsibly. It also helps teach methods of preventing illegal activity at ABC licensed establishments.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department looks forward to working with the California Alcoholic Beverage Control on this grant.

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

STAFF REPORTS

 

event-calendar-imageUPCOMING EVENTS:

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.

 

Mt. Calvary Lutheran Summer Kids’ Day Camp

When: Monday, Now through Wednesday, August 20; 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church & Schools, 23300 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar 91765 Details: A fun, safe, Christian environment for your school age children. Kids’ camp is a summer day camp program based on fun, personal and spiritual growth, and the celebration of God’s Word through various activities, field trips, and daily devotions.  All children ages 5 – 12 are invited to attend.  Check out the Mt. Calvary Lutheran website for more information about daily activities, registration, and fees.

 

West Covina Summer Concert Series

When: Thursday evenings, now through August 7; 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: West Covina Civic Center, 1444 W. Garvey Avenue

Details: Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and dancing shoes and enjoy this summer entertainment:

  • Jul 17: Bumptown
  • Jul 24: Sgt. Pepper
  • Jul 31: Cold Duck
  • Aug 7: Mariachi Divas
  • Aug 16: Food Truck Frenzy and Concert

Contact: Community Services Department, (626) 939-8489.

 

Diamond Bar Concert/Movie Series

When: Wednesday evenings through August 13; 6:30 p.m.

Where: Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive

Details: Free admission and free parking

  • Jul 16: Retro Soul (Dance); Honey, I Shrunk the Kids.
  • Jul 23: The Answer (Classic Rock); The Great and Powerful Oz.
  • Jul 30: Box Car 7 (Blues, R&B); Free Birds.
  • Aug 06: Cold Ducks (70s Tribute); The Lego Movie.
  • Aug 13: Little Lies Band (Fleetwood Mac Tribute); Despicable Me 2

Contact: www.ci.diamond-bar.ca.us

 

21st Annual Oxnard Salsa Festival

When: Saturday, July 26

Where: Oxnard, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).

Details: For $20 per person you can enjoy salsa, food, music and dance. Lunch is on your own at the festival. All ages are welcome.

Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.

 

Reduced Cost Vaccination Clinic

When: Tuesday, July 29, 7 to 8 p.m.

Where: Chino Community Building, 5443 B Street, Chino

Details: The Inland Valley Humane Society and SPCA will hold a reduced fee vaccination and licensing clinic for pets. Dogs: Rabies/$6; DHPP/$15; Bordetella/$15. Cats: Rabies/$10; FVRCP/$18.

Contact: (909) 706-4601

 

Chino Youth Museum Family-Friendly Programs

When: Now through August 2014

Where: 13191 Sixth Street, Downtown Chino; Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Nominal fees.

Details: There are some amazing events taking place this summer, from art projects and entertainment, to edible art creations and Kids Night Out. Enjoy special activities like You & Me Time, Beat the Heat cool activities, and special day Museum Birthday Parties.

Contact: (909) 334-3270 to find out more about the summer-fun schedule.

 

Chino Relay for Life

When: Sat., Aug. 2, 9 a.m. through Sunday, Aug. 3, 8 a.m.

Where: Ayala Park, 14201 Central Ave, Chino

Details: 24-hour event that helps to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Run, Walk, Sponsor!

Contact: Kristine Travis, at kritravi1978@yahoo.com

 

Youth Citizens Police Academy Class VIII

When: Monday – Thursday, Aug. 11-21; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Chino Police Department, 5450 Walnut Avenue

Details: High school teens, 14-18 years of age, who live or attend school in the City of Chino, can get an inside look at all the functions of their local law enforcement agency. Participants will get hands-on experience with SWAT, Patrol, Criminal Investigations, K-9, CSI, Narcotics, Traffic and much more!

Contact: Olivia Le Van, (909) 334-3087, or olevan@chinopd.org for applications.

 

Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Finale featuring the Simpsons!

When: Saturday, Sept. 13

Where: Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).

Details: Journey from the animated Springfield Bowl to the Hollywood Bowl for this unprecedented event as the famous orchestra accompanies your favorite scenes from the Simpsons on the big screen. Seats are located in Section F2, Rows 5, 6, and 7. The fee is $55 per person, appropriate for all ages.

Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.

 

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

 

Walnut: Council Corner – New Mayor

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

Walnut City Mayor Nancy Tragarz

New Mayor of Walnut, Nancy Tragarz (Photo Courtesy: City of Walnut)

Walnut – Walnut residents gathered at City Hall on Wed., July 9 to watch Mayor Pro Tem, Nancy Tragarz, ascend to the position of Mayor of Walnut.

Before the council’s reorganizations, council members proclaimed that July will be known as Parks and Recreation Month and commended retiring City Planner, Laura Nash, for her six years of service to the City.

Mayor Tony Cartagena noted that park use is an important part of the community in Walnut, while lowering juvenile crime rates and promoting participation in the arts.

Tragarz praised the Parks and Recreation Department for its numerous activities, citing the recent Movies in the Park series and the Fourth of July Celebration as perfect examples of the good work being done in the City for its citizens.

“It’s so important to have wonderful parks,” Tragarz said. “Our parks are so well kept … thanks to our Parks and Recreation Commission and all you do.”

Cartagena and the council members then congratulated Nash on her years of service as City Planner, citing her diligence and hard work as a tribute to her character.

After a presentation of Cartagena’s accomplishments as Mayor of Walnut from July 2013 to July 2014, City Attorney, Michael Montgomery, opened the nominations for Mayor, with Council Member Mary Su nominating Tragarz. Tragarz was then sworn in as Mayor of Walnut by members of her family.

Tragarz was elected to serve on the Walnut City Council in 2008 and was chosen by her fellow council members to serve as Mayor in June 2011. Tragarz has served as Mayor Pro Tem since her appointment in July 2013. She also previously served as Vice Chairperson of the Parks and Recreation Commission, Vice Chairperson on the Ethics Committee, and on the Family Festival Committee.

After being sworn in as Mayor, Tragarz’ first act was to nominate councilmember Eric Ching as Mayor Pro Tem, who was approved for the position by receiving a 3-2 majority vote.

City Council members then moved onto the public hearing items, approving Ordinance No. 14-02 for the City Council of the City of Walnut to add language to the City’s municipal code for parking in the City-owned parking lot; and Ordinance No. 14-03 for establishing locations for meetings and official postings.

Council members then approved all items on the consent calendar, including Resolution No.14-32 allowing claims and demands in the amount of $558,637.81; an award of a bid for the Amar Road rehabilitation project in the amount of $152,000; and the approval of a three-year contract with Animal Pest Management, Inc. for rodent control in zones 1 through 9 and 12, parks, and city owned areas.

After the council members delivered their individual announcements, the meeting officially adjourned with plans to meet on June 23 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Business Feature: First Baptist Church of Walnut Valley

STAFF REPORTS

first-baptist-church-walnut-valley

Photo Courtesy: FBCWV

First Baptist Church of Walnut Valley (FBCWV) is calling all kids who have completed grades 1 through 6 to come and make new friends and participate in an exciting music experience. The 11th Annual Summer Music Camp, held Monday through Friday, July 28 through August 8, is an amazing program offering music education and experiences led by trained and dedicated leaders.

Children can enjoy music, singing, choreography, drama, Bible lessons, crafts, games, water fun, and a special field trip in this two-week adventure that runs from daily from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The camp ends on August 8 with a celebratory 30-foot banana split, followed by a special performance for family and friends on Sunday, August 10.

The cost is only $120 per person for the entire camp, but space is limited. Register at the church office Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to noon, and 1:30 to 4 p.m.

FBCWV first came into being in 1969 as a mission church that conducted its services in a school cafeteria. Since then, they have grown into so much more, and are known as “a small church with a big outreach.” They offer opportunities and activities for all ages, from nursery to adult, on a daily basis. These activities include Bible Study groups, Men’s Fellowship, Youth Groups, Sports Ministries, Mission Trips, and their Performing Arts Ministry.

The Church’s sense of family and passion carry over into their different avenues of ministry, including performing arts. “Our purpose is to use the avenue of music and drama as a ministry that will introduce people to Jesus, generate a closer spiritual walk with Him and encourage fellowship and service with other Believers,” says the Director of Performing Arts and King’s Kids, Yvonne Read.

Sunday services begin at 10:30 a.m., with a 9:15 a.m. Bible Study group available for all ages. Everyone is welcome to attend. According to Read, “We are a caring family and are always excited as we lovingly welcome new members to help serve and worship with us. You will feel right at home and cherished.”

Pastor Glenn Miyazono presents the Bible message each week with clear and inspiring words. “The music will thrill your heart,” he says.

For more information or to register for the music camp, visit the church office located at 20425 E. La Puente Road, in Walnut, call (909) 595-0811, or visit FBCWV’s website at http://www.fbcwv.org.

 

San Bernardino: Shootings Rampant

STAFF REPORTS

 

San Bernardino – A multitude of shootings have occurred in the City of San Bernardino in the last week, making local citizens fearful and concerned that they are not safe even in their own homes.

Shootings in San Bernardino

The week started out with a smoke shop that erupted in gunfire on Mon., July 7. In what appeared to be a gang-related drug deal gone badly, Orlando Wayne Hunt, Jr., 24, from Banning, was found dead, along with four others that were injured, at the corner of East Baseline Street and North Waterman Avenue.

 

Police Department new release information states that the shooting occurred at around 11 p.m., possibly inside and outside the shop. Hunt was found in the parking lot, three other injured victims were found inside, and the fourth victim was found in a nearby grocery parking lot. All injured persons are described in stable condition.

 

Police questioned multiple witnesses at the scene; the shooters are described as two African American males.

 

The very next day, on Tues., July 8 at approximately 9:45 p.m., police responded to reports of a shooting at an apartment complex in the 2600 block of South Copper Lane. At the scene officers found Phillip Andre Jacobs, Sr., 45, in his doorway; he was pronounced dead at the scene. Officers also found the victim’s 18-year old daughter, who had also been shot; she was rushed to a local hospital in good condition.

 

It is reported that authorities say it may be a gang-related payback killing, as Jacob’s son, Shazad Mohammad Khan, is a gang member, with the gang allegedly targeting his family for something that he did. Khan is wanted for questioning by police. He is reported as 5’ 10” tall, weighing 140 pounds.

 

And just one day after Jacob’s shooting death, another shooting took place in a San Bernardino strip mall, leaving 27-year old Juan Carlos Villapudua dead.

 

On Wed., July 9, in the 2800 block of West Rialto Avenue, Villapudua made contact with an unknown person in a white car (possibly a newer model Nissan, according to reports). Someone in the vehicle fired at the victim and drove off heading east on Rialto Avenue. Villapudua was pronounced dead at the scene, and leaves behind five small children.

 

These three recent shooting deaths push the total of homicides in San Bernardino to nearly 30 this year, as reported by The Sun. Police are searching for all suspects involved and anyone with information is asked to contact Sgt. Gary Robertson at (909) 841-5361.

 

What Love Is

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Jennifer

I learned my greatest lesson about love from my Grandpa Jester. Surprisingly, the lesson came long after his mind and memories had left him, and all that remained was just what he was at his core. My grandpa loved his family and his wife, and was genuinely kind to everyone. He stood for what he believed and defended his thoughts passionately, but with respect. When he was wronged, he looked at both sides and didn’t always assume he was right. But most of all, my grandpa was truly a good man.

Alzheimer’s disease came and stole parts of his mind and most of his memoires. While many people with this disease lose their “filters” and become increasingly more difficult, my grandpa stayed kind. Often times he would hop up and try and help out with the chores he always did. He would still make jokes and then forget the punch line, but laugh anyway. As his disease progressed, the secret winks he used to always give me from across the room stopped, and at that point I knew he had really forgotten me. However, he once told me that he couldn’t remember who I was but that he did know that he sure did love me. With all the great moments I shared with him, I always knew I was loved without end and that he was always proud of me. When my mother passed away, he sat at her funeral, tears streaming down his face, reliving her passing like a repeating loop in a bad movie. Although he wasn’t sure exactly what was going on, he knew we were all hurting and it broke his heart.

 

The moment that I really understood what it means to love another person came one morning after my grandma had learned that her brother died. My grandpa sat in his chair watching her as she tried to hide the anguish she was feeling. Although we tried to keep him from seeing her upset, he continued to watch her and then stood up with his shaking legs and bad balance and walked into the kitchen with her. He took her into his arms and hugged her tight, telling her it would be okay. He saw her pain, and knew that “his girl” was hurting. That moment was so profound and even years later I can still see the look of concern on his face. At that moment I understood that love is not a word you say because it makes people smile, love is something that lives on long after your memories fade. It is what you know and feel at the very core of your being. When you truly love someone their pain becomes your pain and even when lost in the cloud of Alzheimer’s, or age, or whatever else, that love remains. To me, that’s what love is.

 

 

Chino: Crack Down On Illegal Fireworks

BY K.P. SANDER

Chino – Throughout local area Facebook pages, a multitude of citizens have expressed concern regarding illegal fireworks, and what appears to be the blatant disregard for the law. Many want to know when that law is going to be enforced and citations issued.

It’s not just about breaking the law, or frightening our pets and young children, but in one of the worst droughts in recent history, the potential for starting a fire is extreme. House fires, wild fires, and serious injuries are a legitimate concern. A simple Sparkler can burn at temperatures up to 1800 degrees (F) and ignite clothing without a moment’s notice; firecracker-type M-80 and M-100 sticks can cause the loss of limb and life. And yet we still hear the snap, crackle and pop of danger throughout the 4th of July.

Public safety officials issued notices reminding residents that it is illegal to sell, purchase, transport, store or use fireworks in certain areas with penalties subject to fines, citations, arrests and confiscations (all with zero tolerance). While no fireworks are permitted in Riverside County or the unincorporated areas of San Bernardino County, some cities do have approval. In nearby Chino, yes, you can use fire marshal approved safe-and-sane fireworks. For Chino Hills, the answer is no.

In a news release from the City of Chino, it revealed that the Chino Valley Fire District, in partnership with the Chino and Chino Hills Police departments, issued 74 citations on Fri., July 4, and a total of 81 over the holiday period in the City of Chino. Offenders received a little extra sizzle in the form of either a $1,000 fine for possession or use of illegal fireworks (77 of the 81 citations), or a $500 fine for the inappropriate use of such. 56 personnel were deployed to patrol the streets, and 1,173 fireworks were confiscated. Fire personnel also responded and quickly extinguished one spot fire on the eastbound 60 freeway onramp at Central Avenue caused by a firework. Fortunately, there were no injuries reported this year. No citations were written in Chino Hills.

So, yes, laws are being enforced, and the statistics are even down a bit from last year. And with all the great 4th of July entertainment put on by cities near and far, it really is best to leave the fireworks to the professionals.

 

 

 

 

Walnut: Walnut High School Teacher Named to All-Star Roster

BY KELLI GILE

walnut-high-school-chemistry-teacher-garret -lim

Walnut High School chemistry teacher, Garrett Lim (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Exceptional teaching and a love of baseball has earned Walnut High chemistry teacher, Garrett Lim, the title of All- Star Teacher.

 

PEOPLE Magazine, Target Corporation, and Major League Baseball will be soon be celebrating an all-star team of educators during the 2014 All-Star Game in Minnesota. Thirty educators from around the country have been named to the top teacher roster. They will be flown to Target Field in Minneapolis to attend this year’s All-Star Game on Tues., July 15.

 

The teachers, who are all avid baseball fans, will be included in All-Star activities and introduced during a pre-game ceremony of the MLB All-Star Game.

 

“It will be exciting,” Lim said.

 

The “Target Presents PEOPLE All-Stars” campaign celebrates remarkable current and retired teachers who make an impact on the lives of their students and communities.

 

“This is an awesome tribute to Garrett as he represents all educators at the Midsummer Classic. Garrett is truly one of Walnut’s finest,” said Principal Jeff Jordan.

 

Former student Daniel Tsai, a 2014 graduate, nominated Lim as an All-Star Teacher.

 

“Daniel told me during the process and wanted to know about my story. It was an honor,” Lim said.

 

Nominations specified the teacher’s favorite MLB Club, a short essay including accomplishments in education, making a difference in the life of a student, school, or community and honors or awards. Fans cast their votes online at AllStarTeachers.com to select 30 winners from a pool of 90 finalists.

 

Lim said he became a White Sox fan when he started watching baseball in the early 1990s.

 

“Something drew me to Frank Thomas and how he approached the art of hitting, so much so that he became my favorite player. And since he played for the White Sox, the White Sox became my favorite team. I have been rooting for them since.”

 

When the team won the World Series in 2005, their third championship and first in 88 years, a co-worker scoured Chicago for copies of every newspaper and brought them back to California for Lim. He now keeps the treasures tucked away.

 

Lim describes being named an All-Star Teacher as a “once-in a-lifetime experience.” He hopes to meet at least one of the White Sox team members playing in the All-Star Game and plans to bring some baseballs to have them signed – just in case.

 

“As a teacher I try to find common ground with my students,” Lim said.

 

He likes to share his love of baseball and even plays guitar for his students each year. After college, Lim became a chemist and later followed his passion to teaching chemistry, which is what he’s been doing for the last eight years. He relates his experiences in the chemistry industry to the classroom to help his students better understand chemistry’s practical uses. He teaches a variety of levels of the subject, including honors, international baccalaureate and advanced placement.

 

He wrote a song called “Awake” for his students that explains his journey in becoming a teacher.

 

“It tells them to follow their heart and your career will find you,” Lim explained.

 

Tune in to see the All-Star Teachers live on FOX television on July 15.

 

The Weekly News 07.12.14

The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link July12WeeklyAll  to access the complete July 12-18, 2014 issue in pdf format

Walnut: Mayor Meets With Religious Leaders

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

walnut-city-hall

Walnut City Hall (Photo Courtesy: City of Walnut)

Walnut – Following a May 5 Supreme Court decision ruling that religious invocations were acceptable at city council and other public board meetings, Mayor Tony Cartagena met with several religious leaders in the area on July 1 to discuss an open invitation to all religions wishing to deliver a prayer to the residents of Walnut.

The original lawsuit was brought on by two women in Greece, New York – one Jewish, and one atheist – claiming that the city’s invocations featured prayers to Jesus Christ and were specifically aimed at Christianity.

After the United States Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in favor of allowing religious invocations at city meetings, Cartagena decided to hold a meeting to ensure that even with the large population of Catholic and Christian residents, the Walnut City Council invocation is open to all religions as long as they do not degrade the message of any other religion and do not force their beliefs on unwilling attendees. Cartagena reached out to all local churches and religious groups to discuss a schedule for reading invocations during upcoming council meetings.

According to Cartagena, the meeting had representatives from the First Baptist Church of Walnut, the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the City Blessing Church of Walnut, the Gospel Life Community Church, and the Walnut United Methodist Church.

Cartagena said the meeting was successful and allowed for each responding representative to learn about the rules regarding the deliverance of invocations and that the City Council meetings would soon play host to various religious leaders who would like to offer their prayers to the community.

Furthermore, Cartagena said he was happy with the Supreme Court’s decision because Walnut has a long standing tradition of hosting prayers at the City Council meetings.

“By having invocations at the Walnut City Council sessions, religious leaders could play important roles in seeking help from our almighty God for the legislative body to formulate decisions that would enhance Walnut’s quality of life, among other things,” said Cartagena. The mayor also called the meetings “essential” to the local government.

Some religious leaders, like High Priest Missionary, Felix Maico, of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, said the inclusion of many religions during the invocation will help strengthen the community because it would create connections between the many religions in the city. Maico also noted that freedom of religion is the right of all American citizens and that every religion should have the chance to believe in whatever they want to believe.

Pastor Paul Tan, of City Blessing Church of Walnut, said the decision to allow invocations from all religions will be a boon for the city and its residents, because it will give some individuals the chance to see the friendliness behind other religions.

“It will be beneficial because we need to know one another,” Tan said. “Sometimes we don’t love one another because we don’t know one another. Maybe this will change that.”

 

Walnut: Mayor Inspires Kindergarten Grads

By Leianna Pasmant-Solis

 

Mayor-cartegena-natalia-avila-leianna-oasnabt-solis

Mayor Cartagena with student, Natalia Avila, and director, Leianna Pasmant-Solis. (Photo Courtesy: Leianna Pasmant-Solis)

Walnut – The International School of Montessori has been part of the Walnut Community since 1994.  The Walnut school provides a revolutionary method of observing and supporting the natural development of children from infancy through kindergarten.

Montessori’s 2014 kindergarten class held their graduation ceremony on Fri., June 13, at the Covina Woman’s Club, and Walnut Mayor, Tony Cartagena, was in attendance to congratulate the little graduates.

Cartagena delivered an inspiring speech for the school, encouraging each child to aspire to greatness. The school’s director, Leianna Pasmant-Solis, also congratulated the staff and those in attendance for having participated in such a wonderful program.

The International School of Montessori is located at 20781 Amar Road in Walnut. For more information, call (909) 594-8172.

 

 

 

Walnut: WVUSD Honors 2014 Retirees

BY KELLI GILE

WVUSD Retirees

The 2014 WVUSD retirees shown with Board Members Cindy Ruiz, Helen Hall, Larry Redinger, Dr. Tony Torng, Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor, and Personnel Commissioner Ron Everett. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

 

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District gathered to celebrate the 2014 retiring staff members during a reception held May 21.

 

26 employees were lauded for providing a total of 584 years of outstanding service to students. Each retiree received personal tributes, a retirement watch, and certificates of special recognition.

 

“Thank you, on behalf of the Board of Trustees,” said President Cindy Ruiz. “We appreciate every one of you and you will be missed!”

 

Congratulations to the following retiring staff members:

 

-Diana Thorneycroft – Senior Administrative Assistant, Business Services

-Bonnie Lee, Instructional Aide, Castle Rock Elementary

-Brad Chapman, Teacher, Chaparral Middle School

-Sharon Mocho, Food Service Worker III, Chaparral Middle School

-Marian Nelson, Attendance Clerk, Chaparral Middle School

-Kerry Volkov, Instructional Aide II, Chaparral Middle School

-Linda Gandana, Food Service Worker II, Collegewood Elementary

-Edith Yu, Food Service Worker I, Collegewood Elementary

-Jon Goode, Grade Level Coordinator, Diamond Bar High

-Dennis Thomsen, Teacher, Educational Services

-Gayle Douglas, Teacher, Maple Hill Elementary

-Marsha Dickerson, Teacher, South Pointe Middle School

-Jean Fujihara, Teacher, South Pointe Middle School

-Claudia Huff, Teacher, South Pointe Middle School

-Nadine Aquinaga, Food Service Worker I, Suzanne Middle School

-Susan Gilbert, Administrative Secretary, Transportation

-Lorraine Meier, Bus Driver, Transportation

-Nea Tyler, Bus Driver, Transportation

-Sandra Harutunian, Teacher, Vejar Elementary

-Patricia Ackman, Food Service Worker II, Walnut Elementary

-Tricia Aragon, Secretary II, Walnut High

-Scott Cassells, Grade Level Coordinator, Walnut High

-Lily Jacquot, Teacher, Walnut High

-Christine Nagashima, Office Assistant, Walnut High

-Patricia Finn, Teacher, Westhoff Elementary

Waiting for Some Relief

BY NANCY STOOPS

Things happen in our lives that literally seem to make us feel as if we couldn’t possibly go on. When my brother, Rory,

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

committed suicide, I thought that was the end of me; but I survived. Then my other brother, Jeff, was murdered, and once again I thought for sure I was finished; but I went on. My father was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer, and a week later he died. Now this one almost did destroy me, but I found my way out of the darkness and back to the living.

I’ve learned much of my life is out of my control and things happen that I hate. I also have learned that the only thing I have power over is myself, and how I play the cards I am dealt. When horrific things occur in our lives we feel as if we can’t breathe, move or go on. We sit around just praying for some relief from all of the pain. Prayers always help, but we also need to help ourselves out of the darkness. We can’t just wait around for some miraculous way to feel relief. We need to reach out and get some help when our pain is bigger than we are. If we stay in it, it will swallow us up.

We deserve to heal and to move on. I, too, have had to ask for help in the past. Get up and make that phone call to start living your life again. Don’t you think you have suffered enough and that it’s time to let go of your past and of all that pain? Isn’t it time to stop ignoring the red flags with your child or teenager and finally reach out and get them some help? Isn’t it about time you got some very much needed relief? Stop waiting for the tomorrows because too many have already come and gone; get help today!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens. For more information about any of these services feel free to page her at (626) 935-3818. You may also email her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. Nancy’s book, “Live, Heal and Grow” is available for purchase at http://www.RoseDogBookstore.com or Amazon.com

 

 

Chino: Did You Know?

CHINO POLICE DEPARTMENT

Chino – Did you know that the Chino Police Department is now offering residents a safe and convenient method to dispose of unwanted medication, further reducing possible misuse? The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

Medicines that languish in home cabinets are highly susceptible to diversion, misuse and abuse. Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States are alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. Studies show that a majority of abused prescription drugs are obtained from family and friends, including from the home medicine cabinet. In addition, Americans are now advised that their usual methods for disposing unused medicines – flushing them down the toilet or throwing them in the trash – pose potential safety and health hazards.

Bring your unwanted medication to the Chino Police Department at 5450 Walnut Avenue, in Chino. Please note that liquids, needles, medical supplies, food and medication from businesses will not be accepted. For additional information, call (909) 334-3000.