Category Archives: The Weekly News

Diamond Bar: Evergreen Puzzle Project Connects Students

BY KELLI GILE

 

Diamond Bar – For April’s Autism Awareness month, Evergreen Elementary School hosted a special puzzle project to celebrate. evergreen-elementary-diamond-barSpecial Education teachers, Laura Saenz and Ashley Marshman, distributed puzzle pieces to all students on campus. The children were asked to write about what makes them unique.

 

One by one, the pieces were brought back to their class and connected filling a wall in the multi-purpose room. As the pieces came together, the kids saw how they all fit.

 

“It is important for our students to see that just like a puzzle piece, each individual has something special and unique that no one else can contribute, which makes the entire picture much more beautiful,” said Saenz and Marshman. “We feel that it is important for us to encourage the acceptance of all students.”

 

One student wrote, “I’m special because I have nice friends that support me.” Another said, “I am unique because there is only one me and I have my own skills to do.  Everyone is special so don’t be left out.” Some drew pictures to show how they are unique.

 

Other pieces from staff members said, “Every child is gifted.  They just unwrap their packages at different times;” and “Autism is as much a part of humanity as is the capacity to dream.”

 

“This is another wonderful example of our dedicated teachers creating experiences that join students together and celebrate each child’s uniqueness, as well as our connections with each other.  Evergreen is truly a lovely work of art where each remarkable student is celebrated,” said Principal Carolyn Wills.

Walnut: 3D Printer Comes to South Pointe Middle School

BY KELLI GILE

Walnut – 8th Grade creative explorers at South Pointe Middle School are now seeing their computer-aided designs come to life.

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Technology Teacher Allin Everman helps gear up the new 3D printer during class. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

The school’s Project Lead the Way (PLTW) core has just added a new 3D printer to its classroom.

 

Science Teacher Crystal Dira couldn’t be more excited for the 60 students in the science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) program.

 

“Students now get to hold their designs in their hands,” she said. “We are thrilled about this program and how it’s allowing our students to get a heads up with our growing world of technology in education.”

 

This year, PLTW kids have been focusing on building and programming robotics and working on CAD designs. Teachers Dira and Kellie Muragishi (Science), Allin Everman (Technology), and Deb Brady and Annie Kim (Math), were determined to find a way of finding a 3D printer for their students. They knew it would take an innovative approach to fundraising.
”Let’s see if we can get it!” the team decided. First, they researched affordable 3D printers and funding sources. Then they posted their $2,800 dream printer on the DonorsChoose.org website. Within several weeks a donor selected the request and funded the project. The school’s Community Club pitched in the remaining $100, and the Maker Bot Replicator 2 was delivered during the first week of March. The professional quality printer is designed for engineers or people who like to make things.

 

The desktop 3D printer is about the same size as a microwave, but doesn’t cook popcorn. With just a touch of the start button it cruises at a high speed, using filament to produce the detailed designs. A cartridge smoothly rotates back and forth distributing thin layers of the melted white, red, blue or clear plastic material inside the unit. In just about ten minutes, a perfectly shaped item is ready to be scooped off.

 

“We think it’s good to have a 3D printer because it exposes us to future technology that will be used in the workforce,” said Austin Sun, age 13. “It can mass-produce things people have made by hand. The goal of PLTW is to expose us these things so we can have experience in STEM careers. The robotics computer programming is really neat,” he added.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Did You Know?

BY K.P. SANDER

 

When celebrating Memorial Day this month, remember that our freedom has always been won and sustained at a cost; a very precious price has been paid.

 

Our 34th President of the United States, Dwight D. Eisenhower, said it quite profoundly, “Freedom has its life in the hearts, the actions, the spirit of men and so it must be daily earned and refreshed – else like a flower cut from its life-giving roots, it will wither and die.”

 

Be proud of our freedom, and remember to thank a veteran this Memorial Day (and always).

Chino: Wife Killer’s Parole Overturned by Gov. Brown

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino – Convicted killer Samuel Dubyak’s parole has been overturned by Governor Jerry Brown. The State Parole Board had recommended the former Chino resident’s release from Soledad State Prison in Northern California.

 

In a written statement from Brown’s office, the Governor said, “Mr. Dubyak’s claim of innocence is not believable. I am troubled by Mr. Dubyak’s lack of remorse and empathy.”

Lourdes Dubyak’s body has never been found, but the evidence was strong enough to convict Samuel Dubyak of first-degree murder in 1987. According to a pre-sentencing report, Dolores and Samuel had been having marital problems and Dolores was considering divorce. She had also been having at least one affair. She was last seen alive on Aug. 11, 1985 by a close friend after her lover had dropped her off at home.

 

Samuel Dubyak had never had any adult convictions, is a college graduate and had a steady job, making him an unlikely suspect. However, Dubyak did not report his wife missing until four weeks later. Again, according to pre-sentencing reports, he said that she had disappeared after making a phone call and telling him she needed to go out for awhile. Dubyak claims that she was gone when he awoke the next morning.

 

Later, police learned that Dubyak’s brother and neighbor had disposed of the couple’s bed. In the written statement from the Governor’s office this item was recorded, “The bed had a bullet hole through the mattress and box spring, and a 22-caliber (bullet was) lodged in the box springs. Traces of blood were also found in their room,”

 

Other evidence such as blood in the hatchback of his vehicle, a forged typewritten letter suggesting Lourdes Dubyak was in Mexico City, as well as other inconsistencies, raised speculation. Samuel Dubyak still continues to deny any involvement in this murder and at a 2012 parole hearing he claimed that he had bought a new mattress and dumped the old one, but someone else must have shot the old one.

 

The Governor, in his written statement, encouraged Dubyak to “continue his efforts to develop insight into the factors that contributed to his crime.”

 

Weekly News 5-3-2014

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 May03WeeklyAll to access the complete May 3-9, 2014 issue in pdf format.

Pomona: Midnight/Plaid Shirt Bandit Arrested

STAFF REPORTS

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Midnight/Plaid Shirt Bandit (Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

Pomona – The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has recently issued a news release stating that the suspect responsible for nearly 60 robberies in Southern California cities, including Monterey Park and Pasadena, has been arrested.

 

In a multitude of incidents involving the armed robbery of Gas Stations, Fast Food establishments, and Convenience Stores, the “Midnight/Plaid Shirt Bandit” has reportedly been associated with crimes from April 2012 through June 2013. Suspect Jermaine D. Shepherd, a 37-year old male, supposedly had a penchant for wearing plaid shirts during the commission of the robberies.

 

The news release stated that in June of 2013, a press conference was held asking the public’s help in identifying the suspect. The public was shown pictures of the suspect from some of the robberies. Since that press conference, the robberies stopped. Detectives from the Major Crimes Bureau were able to gain valuable information and evidence regarding the suspect’s identify from a combination of the public’s help, associated law enforcement agencies, and department technology. One of the clues was the unusual gait the suspect had when he walked. The investigation led detectives to Bakersfield where additional information was obtained. On Feb. 11, 2014, detectives presented their case to the District Attorney’s Office where they filed five counts of Armed Robbery, two counts of Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and obtained an arrest warrant for the suspect. On Feb.19, 2014, Major Crimes Bureau personnel responded to Bakersfield and with the assistance of Kern County Sheriff’s Department arrested Shepherd. Search warrants were executed at three locations and evidence was recovered including shirts believed to be worn in the robberies. After the suspect’s arrest, further investigation was completed and the District Attorney filed an additional 26 counts. Shepherd was arraigned and his bail was set at $2.4 million.

 

The Preliminary hearing is set for June 20, 2014, in Pomona Court, and detectives will seek an additional eight counts of Robbery that occurred in Orange County. Detectives are again seeking the public’s assistance with this case. If you have any additional information, call LASD Major Crimes Bureau at (562-946-7893), or email mcbtips@lasd.org . Anonymous calls are welcomed. “If You See Something, Say Something.” Partner with LA Crime Stoppers to prevent or report crime by contacting your local Sheriff’s station. If you wish to remain anonymous, call (800) 222-TIPS (8477), text the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or use the website at http://lacrimestoppers.org.

 

 

Pomona: A Mother’s Hope

 BY K.P. SANDER

 

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Cindy Belevick with her young children, Gigi and Peter (Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

Pomona –  Every mother hopes for the very best for her children, including a wonderful life filled with love and promise. She also hopes to be there to facilitate as much happiness as she can. 

But for one local mother, these hopes have recently been associated with trepidation, and perhaps a deadline. Cindy Belevick, 48, has recently been diagnosed with Aggressive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Even more prevalent than her own concerns for health and longevity are the concerns for her precious children: Peter, 10, has Autism, and his little sister, Gigi, is just 6-years old. These children need their mother.

 

As Belevick struggles with her Leukemia, she is in urgent need of blood, platelets and bone marrow. While donor drives have been organized, with a blood drive recently completed in Diamond Bar, and a marrow drive to be held in Covina May 3, there is still much to be done for her to win this battle. While her family is not a donor match, supporters out there may be.

 

You can become one of Cindy Belevick’s supporters, and part of her hope. While Latino/Hispanic donors are critical, anyone from 18 to 44 years of age can help save a life. In Belevick’s case, time is of the essence. You, or someone you know, may be the key. Help get the word out…

 

For more information on this mother’s hope, visit http://posthope.org/operation-help-save-cindy; and http://bethematchfoundation.org/goto/swabforcindy.

 

 

 

Rancho Cucamonga: Etiwanda Fire Caused Smoke Concerns for Diamond Bar/Walnut

STAFF REPORTS

 

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The Etiwanda Fire forced evacuations of nearly 1,700 homes (Photo Courtesy: KTLA.com)

Rancho Cucamonga – The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) issued a smoke advisory due to the conditions caused by the Etiwanda Fire. This wind-driven brush fire started Wednesday, and has currently burned over 1,000 acres. The air quality impact from the blaze has signaled concern for Diamond Bar, Walnut, La Verne, Claremont and Pomona. With the fire being only 10 percent contained due to the extreme wind conditions prevalent throughout the week, as well as high heat and low humidity, citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary activities outside.

 

At this time only one home has been damaged, but air conditions have caused many schools to close due to air and safety concerns. Mandatory evacuations for nearly 1,700 homes were issued on Wednesday, but lifted on Thursday. Schools, including Alta Loma High School, Banyon Elementary, Caryn Elementary, Etiwanda High School, Golden Elementary, Day Creek Intermediate, Los Osos High School, Rancho Cucamonga High School, and Chaffey College, remained closed on Thursday as well.

 

Santa Ana wind conditions always bring fire concerns, and this season is no exception. The initial cause of the Etiwanda Fire is still under investigation.

 

Don’t Forget

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

One of my most embarrassing moments occurred about a year ago. I was asked to do the invocation at the City Council meeting in Diamond Bar. But, I forgot.

I am thankful that our City Council asks different religious leaders in the community to give an invocation before each meeting. I usually do this two or three times a year. But one day last year, I got busy and completely forgot it was my day to be at the council meeting. The City Clerk had sent me a reminder, and I even had it written on my own calendar.

My name was printed on the agenda. I’m sure it was an awkward moment of silence when they called my name and I wasn’t there. People probably wondered what happened to that absent-minded pastor.

Since that time, I have taken steps to make sure I don’t forget again. I have asked the City Clerk to call and remind me on the day of the meeting. I also ask our church secretary to do the same. I even post sticky notes on my desk and in my car. So far, so good; I’m thankful they were willing to forgive me and give me another chance.

There are many passages in the Bible that exhort us not to forget. Many of the holidays and festivals in the Bible are designed to help people not forget. The Jewish Passover is celebrated every year so that parents and children will not forget the night when the Angel of Death swept over the land of Egypt. The first born in every home died, but the first born in the homes that had the blood of the Passover Lamb on the door posts were saved. In a similar way, Christians celebrate Easter Sunday every year so they will never forget Jesus’ death on the cross, and His resurrection three days later.

As we enjoy this spring season, I hope you are reminded of the importance of holidays like Passover and the Easter we just celebrated. It’s not about Easter Egg Hunts and family dinners. It’s not about spring break and time off from school. This beautiful season is about events and miracles recorded in the Bible. We celebrate so that we will never forget what God has done for us. I hope you won’t forget!

 

Pastor Mark Hopper

Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

(909) 594-7604

Sunday Services: 9 and 10:45 a.m.

Walnut: Big Wins for Mt. San Antonio College

Staff ReportsMt. San Antonio College

 

Walnut – For the second straight year and the third time in the last four years, the Mt. San Antonio College Forensics Team won the Phi Rho Pi national speech title at the national tournament, held April 7-12, at Casper and Northwest colleges in Denver, Colorado. This championship victory marks the ninth time Mt. SAC has won the Phi Rho Pi national title. Combined with four wins as the top community college at the four-year college national tournament, the championship marks the 13th time in the last 20 years that Mt. SAC has been recognized as the top community college in the nation.

The Mt. Sac Jazz Ensemble and vocal jazz group, Frontline, each won first place in their respective divisions at the 52nd Annual Reno Jazz Festival, held April 10-12, at the University of Nevada. This year’s win marks the first time that Frontline has taken first place at the festival, while the Jazz Ensemble has won the college division at the festival four of the last five years. Frontline competed against 12 ensembles from community colleges and universities, including Cal State Fullerton and Cal State Sacramento. The jazz band competed against 16 university and two-year college bands. The festival provides a platform for college competition as well as participation in music workshops and concerts highlighted by performances by the some of the legends of jazz.

Walnut: High School Mustang Coaches of the Year Honored

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Walnut High School Girl’s Golf Coach, Cecil Woods, who has been named the San Gabriel Valley Coach of the Year (shown with Board President Cindy Ruiz). (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

BY KELLI GILEWalnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees recognized two outstanding Walnut High School varsity coaches on April 16. Golf Coach Cecil Woods and Basketball Coach Josh Cameron have received the coveted San Gabriel Valley Coach of the Year Award.

 

Principal Jeff Jordan introduced the Mustang coaches along with the Girls’ Golf Team during the Board Meeting. “Both of these coaches have really come a long way in terms of growing and developing some amazing programs. They’ve both had highly successful programs this year,” said Jordan. “But above the wins and losses, they’re both quality people who work really well with our student athletes; they have high expectations, and have really helped developed these athletes into being high-performers,” he added.

In just the third year of the Girls’ Golf Program at Walnut High School, the team earned its second Hacienda League Championship, Runner-Up at the 2013 CIF Championship, top team at the Regional Finals for CIF Sectionals State Qualification, third place in the Southern California State Qualification, and tied for Runner-Up in the CIF State Championships.

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Walnut High Varsity Basketball Coach, Josh Cameron, was recognized by the WVUSD Board of Trustees, (shown with Athletic Director, Jerry Person, Board President, Cindy Ruiz, and Principal Jeff Jordan). (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Josh Cameron has been the head varsity basketball coach for the past eight seasons. His team has a record this year of 22 and 6, and finished the regular season will 11 straight wins while earning the undefeated Hacienda League Championship. Cameron was also honored as Coach of the Year for the San Gabriel Valley All-Stars.

Both Diamond Bar and Walnut were in the top three teams in the State of California.

Diamond Bar: Diamond Ranch High School Alum Wins CUI Academic Showcase

STAFF REPORTS

Diamond Bar – Thomas Moreno, a 2012 graduate of Diamond Ranch High School, won first place in the tier-two category of Concordia University’s 11th Annual Academic Showcase. Moreno, along with partner Cy Perkins, made his presentation on “Insights into the role of interactions between VDAC1, Bcl-2, and mutant Sod1 in familial Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), commonly called Lou Gehrig’s disease.”  His faculty mentor was Dr. Lindsay Kane-Barnese.

The Academic Showcase is a campus-wide research competition that challenges students to conceive and investigate a research topic and present their findings. Students compete across disciplines and are required to complete a research paper, an academic poster and an oral presentation.

The competition provides a chance for students to work one-on-one with a faculty mentor to complete a full-scale undergraduate research project selected from any discipline. A panel of faculty, selected from across Concordia’s disciplines, serves as judges for the showcase and evaluates projects on use of literature, choice of methodology, and discussion of results and implications.

Winners receive a cash award, and some will be invited to represent Concordia by presenting their research at an inter-collegiate undergraduate research conference in this fall.

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events 04.29.14

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:Events

 

National Child Abuse Prevention Month

When: Month of April

Where: Walnut Fire Station 61 (Lemon Avenue and La Puente Road)

Details: In support of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Walnut Valley Women’s Club facilitated the planting of a garden of pinwheels at Fire Station 61. The pinwheels will remain throughout the month of April. “Pinwheels for Prevention” is a Prevent Child Abuse America program which promotes the message that, “All children deserve an equal chance to thrive and grow.”

City of Walnut Children’s Dance Classes

When: Wed., April 30 – 5 Week Programs, $55

Where: Walnut Senior Center, 21215 La Puente Road, Walnut 91789

Details: Webby Dance Classes: For children 30 months to 6 years – A combination of tap, ballet and creative movement. Age appropriate fun with creative props. For children 5 to 10-years – A combination of jazz and hip hop with exciting routines to age appropriate music.

Contact: To register please call (909) 598-6200 or visit us online at www.ci.walnut.ca.us

DBHS Spring Musical “The Pirates of Penzance”

When: May 1, 2, 3 at 7 p.m.

Where: DBHS Theatre, 21400 E. Pathfinder Road in Diamond Bar

Details: Tickets sales are available at http://www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama. Sections B, C, D: Adults are $18, Students w/ID are $15. Sections A, E: Adults are $15, Students w/ID are $12.

Contact: Beatrice Casagran at (909) 594-1405, ext. 33276

Diamond Bar AYSO: Registration ages 4 to 18 years of age.

When:  May 15, and June 3, 2014 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: Pantera Park

Details: Please visit DBAYSO.ORG for registration procedures for both volunteers and players ages 4 to 18.

Contact: Greg M. Busch, R31_Safety@dbayso.org

27th Annual St. Luke Parish Fiesta, Boutique and Car Show

When: April 25-27

Where: Temple City

Details: This year’s fiesta is set to be one of the most diverse and expansive events, with a car show, exhibitor and boutique area; Mega 50/50 raffle, Laser Tag area, photo booth, food court, entertainment, games and rides.

Contact: Mary Broomfield, Publicity Chair, (626) 201-4560.

21th Annual Diamond Bar Library Wine Soirée

When: Sunday, April 27

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

Details: An afternoon of delicious food from local restaurants, great wine from the Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition, music, and exciting book, silent and live auctions. A unique souvenir wine glass and program are included with each ticket. All of the proceeds go directly to your local community library.

Cost: Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $60 at the door.

Contact: (909) 861-2002

FUTURE EVENTS:

Music at the Point

When: Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: South Pointe Middle School, 20671 Larkstone Drive, Diamond Bar

Walnut Senior Center Peddler’s Market

When: May 3 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Walnut Senior Center

Details: Residents are encouraged to clean out those cupboards, closets, garages and become a vendor at the annual Peddler’s Market. Vendors may purchase two full parking spaces for $35 or three full parking spaces for $50.

Contact: Kim Watts at the Walnut Senior Center at (909) 598-6200.

Electric Car Guest Drive

When: Saturday, May 10

Where: Ruben S. Ayala Park

Details: The Electric Car Guest Drive socials take place at parks up the California coast giving people a non-sales environment to test drive at least six electronic vehicles from one location, learn from educational sponsor booths, and talk to their local EV drivers about what going electric is all about.

Contact: Email ElectricCarGuestDrive@gmail.com for more information.

Fire Service Day

When: Saturday, May 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: City of Industry Fire Station 118; 17056 Gale Avenue, City of Industry

Details: Join the Los Angeles County Fire Station as they celebrate Fire Service Day with Fire Engines, Pool Safety, Jaws of Life Demonstration, and Equipment Displays.

OPARC’s Heart and Sole: Fun Run 1K/5K and Health Fair

When: June 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Where: Ruben S. Ayala Park, 5575 Edison Ave., Chino CA 91710

Cost: Entry fee for runners/walkers is $20, inspiration signs are $50, vendor booths are $150 and additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Free parking.

Details: OPARC, a 501(c)(3) organization that trains, employs and serves the mentally disabled community. Food vendors, vendor booths, participant awards, music, guest appearances, and more. Walk-ins are welcome.

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

 

Chino: Planes of Fame Air Show

STAFF REPORTS

 

planes-of-fame-air-show-2014

Photo Courtesy: PlanesofFame.org

Chino – Look to the skies on the weekend of May 3 and 4 for “A Salute to the Mighty Eighth” as the exciting Planes of Fame soar at the Chino Airport.Mooney International Corporation will present this year’s air show featuring over 40 historic aircraft celebrating the history and contributions of the men, women and aircraft of the 8th Air Force. Performers include U.S.A.F. F-22 Raptor Demo Team and Heritage Flight, Sean D. Tucker-Team Oracle Aerobatics, The Bremont Horsemen, Sea Fury Aerobatics by Sanders Aeronautics, Clay Lacy’s Learjet Demonstration, Rob Harrison and the Tumbling Bear, John Collver’s AT-6 Aerobatics, and over 40 WWII aircraft including B-17, P-47s, and P-51s.

 

These incredible planes are exciting to behold. Exclusive access to their many charms is available through a special photographer’s Sunrise Photo Access pass so you can capture their beauty before the gates open.

 

In addition to many other fantastic airplanes performing, there will be a panel discussion with honored veterans of the 8th Air Force, including Clarence “Bud” Anderson, Jack Croul, Jim White, Wilbur Richardson, and George Thomas. This is an incredible event whether you are an aircraft enthusiast, or just looking to enjoy an amazing day.

 

The gates will open at 8 a.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, with the flying show running from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Static displays and vendors will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with special merchandise and delicious food and beverages offerings available.

 

Adult General Admission tickets for ages 12 and above are $25. Children ages 11 and under are free, and must be accompanied by a ticketed adult. Tickets can be purchased online or at the gate. Sunrise Photo Access passes are $75 (available online). There are also special reserved bleacher seats available. For more information on this event, visit the website at http://www.planesoffame.org.

 

The airport and museum are located at 7000 Merrill Avenue, in Chino.

 

 

Diamond Bar Resident Allegedly Steals Mother’s Memories

STAFF REPORTS

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Photo released shows a couple using Norris’ stolen credit cards. (Photo Courtesy: Murrieta Police Department)

Murrieta – On March 31 Ashley Norris’ purse was taken from a locker at a Murrieta LA Fitness. The purse contained some of the toys belonging to Norris’ infant son, who died last year.

 

According to Murrieta Police, two people were suspected of stealing Norris’ purse and they were able to pull surveillance images of a couple who were allegedly using the victim’s stolen credit cards. Norris, who was devastated by the loss of these precious toys, reached out to various media outlets and handed out flyers at the gym in an effort to find any information. On April 18, Murrieta Police announced that through several anonymous tips and leads, the suspects were identified as Amanda Sander, a Diamond Bar resident, and Romulo Castaneda. Sander was taken into custody early last week and booked into the Los Angeles County Jail on an unrelated charge.

 

According to local reports, Sander was interviewed but refused to cooperate. Sander was linked to the case after she gave the stolen purse to a friend who did cooperate with the investigation. When the purse was recovered by detectives, the toys were not in the bag and as of now have not been located.

 

Castaneda had been unknown, but last week he was tracked down to a Chino Hills motel and arrested without incident. He was transported back to Murrieta for questioning. Castaneda gave a statement, but was unable to give a location of the toys, according to Murrieta Police. Castaneda was arrested and booked into Murrieta Jail on charges of fraud, burglary and identity theft.  He posted $5,000 bail and was released Friday, according to jail records. Sander remains in jail in Los Angeles County. At this time Ashley Norris remains without the toys that are a precious memory of her late son. According to a Patch interview, she is hoping that Sander will eventually cooperate and at least tell her if they were thrown away so she can have some peace.

San Gabriel Valley: Did You Know?

STAFF REPORTS

san.gabriel.area.tongva.villages

San Gabriel Area Tongva Villages (Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

San Gabriel Valley – The Tongva, part of the Uto-Aztecan Native Americans originally occupied and land along the Rio Hondo River, which is a branch of the San Gabriel River. Long before the Spaniards explored the area, they made their homes in a large part of the Los Angeles basin, including Santa Catalina and other local islands. And, the Hahanogna Tribe, a division of the Tongva, occupied the northern part of the valley down toward Pasadena.

 

The Tongva were a beautiful people, who tattooed their bodies, and men and women alike wore long hair. They lived in dome-like buildings with thatched exteriors and used ti’ats, or plank-type canoes, for water travel.

 

With a language referred to as “Gabrielino” by the Spaniards, the Tongva are responsible for many of the city names we currently use today: Pomona was called Piwongna; Pasadena was Pasakeg-na, and Cucamonga was referred to as Cucomog-na. Today, several groups of the Tongva people still live in the area.

 

City of Industry: Brutal Arson Death Investigation

STAFF REPORTSicon.crime.weekly.news

City of Industry – Somewhere there are answers to the questions surrounding the heartbreaking events that led to a man, naked, reportedly beaten, bound and set on fire; a man who had the fortitude to somehow crawl up an embankment trail to the 605 freeway.

In a news release issued by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau and Arson Explosive Detail, an adult male was found on the northbound 605 Freeway, just north of the 60 Freeway at about 1:49 p.m. on Tues, April 15. Multiple motorists called in the incident.

Reports say that detectives believe the victim appears to have come from the wash area below the freeway. His arms and legs were partially bound, and he had severe burns to his face and body. Detectives are looking for evidence of a fire in the vicinity.

The man, who was reportedly in his 30s, has not yet been identified. He succumbed to his injuries on Wed., April 16 at USC Medical Center. No arrests have been made.

Anyone with information about the case is asked to call the Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500. Anonymous tipsters may call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, text “TIPLA” plus the tip to 274637, or use the website at http://lacrimestoppers.org.

La Puente: Nogales High-The March of A Lifetime

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Nogales High School Band Director Brad Pollock with students after learning in a surprise announcement they are one of only ten bands in the U.S. to perform in the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in 2015. The Nogales High School Noble Band will represent California and the West Coast in the legendary parade. (Photo courtesy: Nogales High School)

STAFF REPORTS

La Puente – On April 14 in a surprise announcement, the Nogales High School Noble Regiment received the news that they have been selected to once again perform in the 2015 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. The Noble Regiment will join the line of march and begin their performance to the sound of, “Let’s Have a Parade,” the iconic phrase that has signaled the start of every Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade since 1924. They will join nine other marching bands from across the country as well as fantastic floats, sky high giant character balloons, wacky clowns and superstar performers on Thanksgiving Day 2015. With more than 3.5 million live spectators and 50 million at-home viewers, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is considered the beginning of the holiday season and the ultimate Thanksgiving Day treat for fans of all ages.

 

Brad Pollock, band director of the Nogales High School Noble Regiment said, “Amazing, stunned, excited are just a few words that can barely explain the honor that has been bestowed upon the Noble Regiment to represent California in the Macy’s Parade in 2015. The students should get all of the credit. The memory of the event will last a lifetime. The opportunity to perform in the Parade once was incredible, but to be invited back really is something special. It is a true indication of consistent hard work, dedication, and a love to perform, paying off. We look forward to this event and can’t wait to get our groove on, down Broadway. Go Nobles!”

 

Dr. Sergio A. Canal, principal of Nogales High School added, “I am proud of the dedicated effort of our students, parents and staff of the Noble Regiment. They have all invested valuable time into making our band a nationally recognized band; this honor of being invited back to the Macy’s Parade is indicative of this recognition.  The Noble Regiment will represent Nogales High School and the Rowland Unified School District, not to mention the West Coast, with great pride.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Walnut: City Council Swears in Pacheco and Su

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

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Mary Su being sworn into office in front of more than 100 attendees. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza

Walnut City Hall was the site of much celebrating, with council members Bob Pacheco and Mary Su being sworn into office in front of more than 100 City Council attendees, after months of campaigning.

 

“To Walnut residents, I would like to express my sincere gratitude for your tireless encouragement,” Su said. “I knew this race was going to be nasty and ugly, but in the end most Walnut residents voted and cared about the important issues.”

 

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Bob Pacheco sworn in after months of campaigning.

Pacheco thanked the Walnut residents for their support and thanked his wife, Gayle, and his daughter, Cristina, for all of their help during the election.

 

Both Pacheco and Su said that while the election campaign was an arduous task, they were both ready to serve the residents of Walnut for another four year term on the Walnut City Council.

“I’m going to keep my toes to the fire and do all the things I said I would do during my campaign,” Pacheco said. “Walnut will be the shining star of the San Gabriel Valley.”

 

After a brief recess, the City Council members then approved the minutes of the joint meeting of the City Council and Sheriff on March 5, and a special City Council election on March 10.

 

Council members then approved Item 4 on the agenda, concerning the community development block grant three year cooperation agreement between the City and the County of Los Angeles from 2015-2017.

 

The Council then approved Items 5 and 8 regarding the resolution of the City of Walnut allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $1,058,090.76 and a ratification of various commission appointments for the City’s parks and recreation and senior commissions.

 

Council member Nancy Tragarz pulled Items 6 and 7 on the consent calendar, concerning a salary adjustment to include a cost of living adjustment retroactive to Jan. 1 and the signing of a contract amendment for the City Manager’s agreement. Tragarz stated that the two items felt “incomplete” and City Council members did not have all the information available to make an accurate decision, and asked to move the items to a different City Council meeting. Following a slew of comments from City Council members, the two items were then moved to be discussed at a later date.

After the Council’s meeting items were completed, the Housing Authority approved a resolution concerning the Walnut Housing Authority allowing certain claims and demands in the amount of $20, 319.25 before entering a closed session concerning a negotiation of real property for Richard and Nancy McDonald.

 

The meeting was adjourned with the next City Council meeting scheduled for Wed., May 7 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Weekly News 4-26-2014

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 Apr26Weekly-all-ClickHere to access the complete April 26-May 2, 2014 issue in pdf format.