Category Archives: The Weekly News

Box Truck Hydrogen Tank Fire

By Anthony Saude

Diamond Bar – It was Sunday afternoon on February 11 at about 1:23 pm when San Dimas Sheriff’s Station received a report that a vehicle was on fire at a gas station near the intersection at Golden Springs Drive and Brea Canyon Road.

Upon their arrival at the scene, the responding deputies immediately noticed the hazardous material placard on the burning Box Truck however they could not locate the driver. The deputies eventually located the driver of the engulfed truck, who told them that he had gotten scared and ran from the burning truck because he was aware that the material he was transporting was highly flammable. Once the Deputies confirmed that the driver was not at fault for the fire and that no crime had been committed, the investigation was handed over to the Los Angeles County Fire Department.

The truck was transporting tanks filled with hydrogen gas when it caught fire. The remaining tanks that had not been affected by the fire, had to be manually released by Air Products (Proprietor) with the Los Angeles County Fire Department standing by for safety purposes. Although the process took quite some time to complete, it was the safest, non-toxic way to handle the situation.

Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department assisted Los Angeles County Fire Department with evacuations of the nearby businesses and residences. LASD enlisted the help of a total of nine other LA County Fire Stations (Altadena, Crescenta Valley, Diamond Bar, San Dimas, East Los Angeles, Norwalk, Temple, Pico Rivera and Walnut). The Emergency Operations Bureau were also brought out to help with road closures and some precautionary evacuations. The “Precautionary Evacuations” had NOT been lifted as of 8:45 PM on Sunday.

Evacuation Areas:
-Area West of Valley Vista Drive/East of Lemon Avenue
-Areas South of the 60 Freeway/North of the 57 Freeway
When evacuations become necessary there are some items residents can get ready.

Prepare yourself with a “go bag” that contains:

Your identification

Your Medications

Any important documents you might have or need (birth certificates, marriage certificates, etc.)

Any emergency supplies you need

a change of clothes and toiletries

You never know how long you will be away from home if evacuated.
Check with you local Sherriff or Fire Department for evacuation shelters in your area. This evacuation event had the following shelters available for use.
Emergency Shelter:
*Diamond Bar High school (Overnight Accommodations)
21400 Pathfinder Road Diamond Bar CA 91765
*Calvary Chapel Golden Springs Church
22324 Golden Springs Drive Diamond Bar CA 91765
Deputies will remained in the area to provide security and escorts if necessary.
– Assist with notifications and evacuations if they become necessary;
– Protect residences, businesses and property;
– Provide posts at road closures;
– And assist the community as needed.

All the residents that were affected by the Box Truck Hydrogen Tank Fin in Diamond Bar were able to return to their homes by 3:45 a.m. by 3:30 am on Monday, February 12.

In order to provide for the safety of homeowners and first responders, residents are always encouraged to comply with the evacuation orders.

The LASD wants all the residents and business partners that were affected by the evacuations for their patience. The cooperation enabled the LASD to work efficiently with partnering agencies to provide the community with a safe environment throughout the event. They also thanked all the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department personnel for assisting with the evacuations and road closures.

Sell Your Casa With Gil Rivera

By Sarah Sanchez

 

Southern California – What does 4% opposed to 6% really mean? If you’re selling your home, you’ll pay a 6% commission to the realtors. But with Gil Rivera from SellYourCasa.com you’ll only pay 4% for the SAME AMOUNT OF WORK! So if your home sells for $500,000, at 6% you’ll fork over $30,000 for commission. With Gil Rivera you’ll only pay $20,000 for both realtors to split. That’s a savings of $10,000!!

Rivera’s Sellers love the fact that he offers a discounted commission, but with full service.  Rivera’s offer of 4% Total Commission for Sellers includes 2.5% to the Buyer’s Agent and 1.5% to Rivera’s office.  Most Realtors negotiate a 6% commission because they have to split the fees with their brokerage. But, as Rivera is the Broker, he passes on the savings to the Seller. This will save Sellers thousands of dollars in commission fees.  His team offers full service for that discounted rate including high quality flyers, professional photos, open houses (as allowable by Seller), and extended advertising coverage on the Internet and social media.

Now, more about what you’re getting from Gil Rivera at SellYourCasa.com: It’s important to know all aspects of your business.  For Gil Rivera from SellYourCasa.com, he absolutely knows every aspect of buying and selling a home.  He is a reliable, experienced, and an affordable Realtor, Broker, and Certified Appraiser.

Rivera sells houses, condos, and two to four unit investment properties in Riverside, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, and Orange counties. He just recently sold another home in Eastvale last month. He also does real estate appraisals for banks, estates, trusts, divorces, attorneys, refinances, home purchases, and probate/inheritance for tax purposes. In addition, Rivera has assistants that work with him who are fluent in Spanish and Chinese, helping to reach people of different dialects all over Southern California.

Rivera’s philosophy is to “treat my clients the way I want to be treated.” In fact, Rivera said that he became a Realtor because he did not like the way his Realtor treated him when he was buying his home. Rivera shows respect for his clients at all times. He listens to what they say, so that he can better serve them.

Rivera also does not push his Buyers into a sale. Rivera said, “I always tell Buyers: ‘You will know right away when we walk into the house that’s meant for you’.  Whether it takes a week or months, my Buyers will always be satisfied with their purchase and never pressured into it.”

Rivera’s current promotion is, “We will SELL your house in four weeks at highest value! We only request a listing period of four weeks, while most other Realtors ask for a six month listing.” Rivera says that “Buyers need to know that they do not need to pay their Realtor any fees for representing them on a purchase. The Buyer’s agent is paid by the Seller, not the Buyer.

Check out Rivera’s website at http://www.SellYourCasa.com to see how many different cities Rivera has sold in and for additional information about his company. You can also call the toll free number at (877) 888-SOLD (7653), or cell phone number (909) 967-4525. He also currently has large freeway billboard signs throughout the San Gabriel Valley and Inland Empire.Call today for a free market evaluation.

26-Year-Old Man’s Body Identified

By Anthony Saude

Corona – The young man’s body that was unceremoniously discarded in the middle of a Corona street last week has been identified by family members. Michael Williams, who had recently turned 26, was an aspiring chef according to his grief-stricken relatives.

The family gathered for a vigil at the scene to mourn and remember their slain precious Michael. A little later on that Monday the Corona police confirmed that Williams was the person they had found.

Five days earlier the Corona Police Department responded to a report that there was a pedestrian lying in the middle of the street. When they arrived at the 1300 block of Old Temescal Road shortly before 2 a.m. they discovered Williams’s lifeless body. A homicide investigation into the crime was opened immediately.

His mother Elyse Vaughn told reporters, “it’s a call that you never want to get.” She told them that she wished it was like a bad dream that she could wake up from but it’s not.

Family members told reporters that they believe he may have been dumped in the remote industrial area where he was found. They had no idea why he would be in the area.

“Michael was fun-loving, he was a very sweet young man,” Vaughn told reporters. “There’s so much to say about him. It’s hard to put it in words. He was the light of our lives … he was the energy that walked into every room.”

The family is very confused about who would want to hurt their sweet Michael. They can’t think of anbody that would want to hurt him. The family says he was a very kind, gentle fun loving person that had a lot of friends.

There is a Gofundme page set up to help the family pay for funeral costs that describes Williams as “a kind, funny, gentle and truly compassionate soul,” who “loved basketball, music, fashion and food.”

It is always a tragedy when people are struck down senselessly at such a young age. They will never get to watch their child get married or see their grandchildren be born or grow up. This type of crime robs so many people of so much happiness that should have been part of their lives in the future.

Corona Police Department said that the investigation is still ongoing. They are searching for surveillance video from nearby businesses that could help solve the crime.

A cause of death has not been released at this time but it is being investigated as a homicide according to the police. If anyone has any information in relative to the crime they are encouraged to call the Corona police at 951-279-3628

 

Lemon Ave Onramp Finally Comes To Fruition

Photo Credit: Mike Armijo

By Michael Armijo

Diamond Bar, CA – The long awaited Lemon Avenue onramps and off ramps are finally being constructed, with most of the foundation and grading done.

The cities of Diamond Bar and Industry, in cooperation with the Alameda Corridor East (ACE) Construction Authority and the California Department of Transportation District 7 (Caltrans) and the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), started constructing the new interchange on State Route 60 (SR-60) at Lemon Avenue. The project will improve traffic operations by providing direct access to SR-60 from the surrounding areas.

The project will construct a partial (three-legged) interchange, a WB on-ramp, and EB on-and off-ramps from Lemon Avenue. It will also permanently remove the existing EB off – and on-ramps at Brea Canyon Road. An auxiliary lane from the proposed EB on-ramp to the connector to SB SR-57 will also be constructed.

The ramps will help congestion on the local level that has been plaguing Walnut, Diamond Bar, and surrounding cities. There are many industrial sites that have lots of employees who use the existing ramps on Fairway, Golden Springs and Grand Avenue. These new ramps should help those congested areas significantly as follows:

The construction will cause some delays, as Friday, February 23, 2018 at 10:00 p.m. – Monday, February 26, 2018 at 5:00 a.m. 2 lanes of eastbound SR-60 will CLOSED between Fairway Drive and Brea Canyon Road Eastbound on-ramp from northbound Fairway Drive CLOSED.
Friday, March 2, 2018 at 10:00 p.m. – Monday, March 5, 2018 at 5:00 a.m. 2 lanes of eastbound SR-60 will be CLOSED between Fairway Drive and Brea Canyon Road Eastbound Brea Canyon Road will also be CLOSED.
Friday, March 9, 2018 at 10:00 p.m. – Monday, March 12, 2018 at 5:00 a.m. (tentative)
2 lanes of eastbound SR-60 will be CLOSED between Fairway Drive and Brea Canyon Road Eastbound Brea Canyon Road off-ramp will be CLOSED.

Consturction began last January 23, 2017 when the street was closed for street widening and center median removal. A few months earlier crews began brush clearance in preparation of the freeway ramps. Portions of the freeway sound wall within the work area was temporarily removed during construction. Access to local businesses and residences were maintained.

The existing sound wall along EB SR-60 west of Lemon Avenue will be removed and a new sound wall will be installed along the edge of pavement of the EB off – and on-ramps.

A new traffic signal will be constructed along Lemon Avenue at the new EB ramps. Traffic signal modifications will also be made at the Golden Springs Drive/Lemon Avenue intersection and at the Golden Springs Drive/Existing EB ramp intersection near the Market World shopping center.

The construction of the new ramps at Lemon Avenue will also eliminate the Truck Route designation along Golden Springs Drive between Brea Canyon Road and Lemon Avenue. (Anthony Saude helped with story)

Choose, Connect, and See the Difference at Walnut Hills Optometry

Walnut Hills Optometry can be reached at (626) 965-3878 or (909) 594-1153. For more information, visit their website at http://www.walnuthillsoptometry.com

Staff Reports

 

Walnut – Do you know WHO will care for your eyes? Great news! Walnut Hills Optometry is moving to a larger location, just one block away from old location. Starting on January 20 this new location will open its doors to satisfy all your optometry care needs.  For many years, Walnut Hills Optometry (WHO) has taken excellent care of the vision needs of the community, serving patients from Walnut, West Covina, Diamond Bar, and Chino Hills to patients from La Puente, Rowland Heights, Hacienda Heights and Whittier. Because of the quality of service provided, as well as the trusting care given by the doctor, patients travel from the Los Angeles and Inland Empire areas as well.

WHO considers vision to be a precious gift, and their office takes pride in providing comprehensive eye exams.

WHO believes that quality eye care involves consistent care by a professional.  Carmela Larino, O.D., and her loyal staff, will give your eyes the personalized care and attention they deserve.

Dr. Larino is proud to serve the community she grew up in.  She attended Rowland Unified schools from elementary through high school, and then attended U.C. Irvine before receiving her doctorate degree from the Southern California College of Optometry.  In 2003, Dr. Larino was honored at her alma mater – Nogales High School – when she was inducted onto their Wall of Fame.  She is a member of the American Optometric Association, the California Optometric Association, and the Rio Hondo Optometric Society, where she stays current on the latest in eye care.  As a local resident, you might find Dr. Larino eating at your favorite restaurant, shopping in a local store, or attending a community event.

WHO offers personalized eye examinations, diabetic and eye health exams, and the management and care of a multitude of eye and vision concerns.  A wide variety of eyewear is also available, from progressive and polarized lenses to silicone high-oxygen contacts, and even designer frames. They also offer Lasik Surgery co-management. If you have used eyeglass frames scattered around the house, bring them to the WHO offices and they will donate them to those in need of frames.

WHO is conveniently located near the 10, 60 and 57 freeways, on the border of Walnut and West Covina, at 18800 East Amar Road # A5, inside the Walnut West Plaza. Their hours are Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. , Wednesdays and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturdays  from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  You can reach them at (626) 965-3878 or (909) 594-1153.  For more information visit their website at www.walnuthillsoptometry.com.

Walnut Hills Optometry thanks you for twenty years, follow them for twenty more!

 

 

District Dedicates More Tech to Teaching

By Anthony Saude

Chino Hills-Technology in the classroom may be teach, inspire, and engage students, but it can’t possibly replace teachers.

That was the point made at the Chino Valley school district’s second annual ChET Day (Chino Education Technology) seminar held on January 27 sponsored for and by district teachers.

Keynote speaker Mary Jo Madda spoke about how education can support the job skills needed for a successful future.

Ms. Madda works for Google in the same education department that provides free computer science education programs for Black, Hispanic and Latino students. Most jobs still require at least an understanding of the hard skills, like math for coding, accounting, finance and of course writing.

It is just as important for career growth that the soft skills are also nurtured, skills like problem solving, communication, collaboration, negotiation, persistence, organization and initiative. Ms. Madda also touched on a new concept in education, developing social capital like social relationships that have economic benefits is also important. Social capital for students could include their teachers, mentors and coaches. The one thing that artificial intelligence can’t do well is connect with the students on a human level.

All three of these skill areas will become increasingly important as robotics replaces old jobs and new jobs emerge that haven’t even been created yet.  STEM is great but we must keep English, music art and foreign language as part of our curriculum.

About 192 teachers and administrators attended the 4 hour CHet Day without pay. Technology trainer in the district, Kim James, says that most teachers want or need technology training but they just don’t have the time to get it. Three breakout sessions for about 60 teachers on computer basics and Excel101 were led by Amanda Arrey, a first grade teacher at Howard Cattle Elementary during the seminar.

With standards to Common Core always changing we have a lot of standards that we have to keep track of with our kids.

During the sessions the teachers were shown how to create folders, how to search and how to feel comfortable finding their way around a computer and excel spreadsheets.

Ms. James at 32 years old regularly trains teachers at her school on technology. She serves on the district’s Techsploration Committee with approximately 30 other administrators and teachers. The group attends conferences and meets monthly to discuss ways to incorporate technology into the classroom. The district employs four technology training specialists full time for the sole purpose of training teachers and to be available to answer any questions that may come up. Another responsibility they have is to hold teaching assemblies for students about internet safety and digital citizenship.

There was several vendors present introducing new technology, most impressive was ViewSonic who had a view board on display that will be placed in two classrooms as part of a pilot program this year. It has a 75 inch mobile screen with an interactive design that is activated by touch like an iPad. It is also equipped with Google voice command recognition as well. Just like its predecessor the “white board”, it can be written on and erased digitally. Bugs, trees, oceans and cells in are in 3D and seem to be alive.  Some of the major sponsors of the seminar like Microsoft donated raffle prizes and Schools Firs Credit Union made sure everybody had breakfast and snacks.

 

 

 

Spreading Kindness and Joy

By Kelli Gile

Quail Summit students deliver valentines to Diamond Bar seniors

DIAMOND BAR —Quail Summit Elementary leadership students made a special delivery to the Diamond Bar Senior Citizens Club on Monday.

The 25 Character Crew members arrived by school bus carrying envelopes packed with hundreds of handwritten valentines.

“Every student at our school made these cards of kindness,” shared 3rd grader Evelyn Wu.

‘We just want to make them happy!”

“I hope these Valentine’s Day cards make them smile,” commented 5th grader Joseph Hills moments before students began passing out their love letters.

“This has become a tradition, we’ve been waiting for you!” said volunteer Laura Estrada welcoming the children to the meeting held at the Diamond Bar Center.

The handmade cards featured messages like “We Love You” and “You Are Special,” and “You Are So Important to Us”

The seniors were thrilled to receive the bounty of Valentine’s Day gifts.

“They make me feel loved!” beamed Laura O’Neil who had several glittered and 3-D cards displayed at her table.

The students took turns at the microphone sharing Character Crew activities geared to make a positive difference each day in the school and community.

During the holidays, the students hosted a canned food and sock drive for area needy.

Members are currently collecting cardboard boxes and paper towel rolls for monkeys at the Santa Ana Zoo.

“It will keep their brains active,” reported Giulia Ladwig.

Next month, students will paint messages of hope on 600 rocks and leave them around the Diamond Bar community to inspire others.

“The kids are adorable!” one senior commented while admiring the work of the young service-minded group.

“We hope these valentines bring joy and let you know how very special you are to us,” said 4th grader Aiden Sou.

“We love you!” smiled first grader Elisabeth Ng as the audience broke out in applause.

“We don’t often take the time to put words down on paper,” said teacher Kathy McLean.

“This opportunity gives our students a chance see how much impact their kind words have.”

The seniors club provides generous support to the school each year, funding several special activities including an upcoming author visit.

“We appreciate you more than words can say!” said elementary learning specialist Leann Legind.

 

Chino City Manager’s Contract Extended

By Anthony Saude

Chino – Matt Ballantyne is so well thought of by Chino mayor Eunice Ulloa and the rest of the city council that they unanimously voted to extend his contract four more years until 2023. The decision was voted on during the city council’s regular meeting on Tuesday, February 6. The feeling of the mayor and the council is they would rather be safe than sorry.

Ballantyne has done such an excellent job since he beat out 72 applicants in 1972 to replace the retired Pat Glover, the former city manager. Mr. Ballantyne was previously the city manager for San Marino, a community in the San Gabriel Valley. He has two master’s degrees, in public administration and urban and regional planning, along with a bachelor’s degree from the University of California, Los Angeles in geography and environmental studies.

The City of Chino has rewarded him with 4 contract extensions over the years each one well before the expiration of his current contract. It has been widely reported that the mayor is so enamored with his performance she said that “he is just to doggone good to lose” and “he is such an excellent city manager we don’t want to give any of the surrounding cities a chance to snatch him up.“  His original contract was extended two years in 2014 to the end of 2017. On October 4 2017, it was extended an additional year until July 31, 2018. The city then extended that contract on October 4 2016, until the end of July 2019.

There were some additional changes made to his contract at that time that included increasing the severance agreement to 12 months or the unexpired term of the contract, which ever was less if Mr. Ballantyne was terminated without cause. Tuesday night’s extension has guaranteed his services in Chino until July 31, 2023. The city manager’s salary was set at $21,653 monthly as of the end of 2016, with a total annual compensation package, that includes benefits is $391,491.

 

 

 

City of Diamond Bar Bridal Show

By Anthony Saude

Diamond Bar – Are you planning on getting married someday or again? This event can help you with ideas and planning even if your plans aren’t in the near future. Everybody thinks and dreams about their dream wedding their whole lives. The City of Diamond Bar Bridal show is the place to bring those dreams to life you will be able to see the beauty and substance to those dreams right before you very eyes. Don’t worry ladies you are invited too.

The City of Diamond Bar wants to help make your wedding experience as stress free and happy as is humanly possible. The city will sponsor a bridal show event where you can spend an entire day planning your dream wedding in an intimate and casual atmosphere with top notch event professionals.

All brides at the boutique-style event will receive a reusable tote to collect samples, information, prizes and more. In addition door prizes will be given away all day long. You will be inspired by the vendors who will be there offering all your latest event planning desires. In attendance will be event designers, photographers, floral designers, event lighting, invitation designers, photo booths, bridal attire and music and entertainment specialists all to make your event experience as special as your wedding day itself.

The event will be held on Sunday February 25th from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the extraordinary Diamond Bar Center in picturesque Summitridge Park, which is owned and operated by the City of Diamond Bar.

The center is a huge 22,500 square foot facility with breathtaking views of the San Gabriel Valley. Bring your camera, get all dressed up get some pictures of you and your sweetheart and make a day of it. Admission for the bride and groom is free guests will be charged a $10 admission at the door.

For more information about the show you can visit the City of Diamond Bar website at https://www.diamondbarca.gov/719/Bridal-Show-Information. For information and pictures about the venue you can visit https://www.diamondbarca.gov/331/About-the-Facility.

 

 

 

 

Everyday Heroes

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

There is so much good left in our world.  I run into wonderful people daily.  In my eyes you don’t have to acquire super powers or wear a cape to be a hero.  For me, a hero is somebody that models all the good characteristics one should have.  A hero is a person that lives up to their potential and strives to be better each and everyday.  A hero is a person that gives fully of themselves because it’s the right thing to do and doesn’t expect anything in return.  Look around and you will see plenty of everyday heroes.  You will find them teaching our children, protecting our community, mentoring others, saving lives and putting out fires, giving grants and scholarships and modeling who we’re intended to be in this world.

Giving unconditionally is one of the greatest gifts one can offer to this world.  It is the stuff that can make another understand, just how important their existence is to this world.  It can literally save the life of another.  Sometimes people just need a break and being an everyday hero can offer that break for another human being.  Don’t take your life for granted instead strive to be an everyday hero.  Being an everyday hero doesn’t require lots of letters after your name or a fancy college degree. You can make a huge influence by just being the wonderful person you already are and by sharing your kindness and compassion with another.

Our youth needs heroes and a sense of hope in a very chaotic time in our world.  It is our job to be everyday heroes and guide them.  Strive to be your best each and everyday.  If you do this I’m sure your inner most everyday hero will be unveiled for the world to see!!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727. You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoos@verizon.net.  You may purchase Nancy’s books, Live, Heal and Grow and Midnight the therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

Impossible

By Mark Hopper

In C.S. Lewis’s famous book, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe”, there is a remarkable scene where the evil White Witch killed the powerful Lion named Aslan.  Aslan had willingly surrendered himself to the Witch.  She and her minions had bound, ridiculed and humiliated the Lion and she had personally killed him by plunging a dagger into his heart.

The wicked Witch had killed the mighty Aslan.  She had won, he had lost – or so it seemed.  Aslan’s friends had witnessed his execution from afar.  They had embraced his cold, dead body.  They wept as they walked away knowing their friend and leader was dead.

However, moments later the stone table where Aslan had been killed was shattered and Aslan’s body vanishes.  Those who witnessed his death are confused.  What happened?  What does this mean?  Where did Aslan go?

To their amazement, Aslan reappears alive.  He is no longer dead – he is alive again.  His followers are stunned.  But, there he is alive again.  They not only saw him with their eyes, but they could also touch him with their hands and talk with him and hear him speak.  He was really was alive again!

As C. S. Lewis continues his story, the forces of good and evil find themselves in a fierce battle.  The White Witch leads her army in battle against the followers of Aslan.  The Witch’s forces are winning and things look bleak for Aslan’s army.  But, suddenly Aslan arrives at the scene of the battle bringing reinforcements.

When the White Witch sees the powerful Lion, Aslan, she says in disbelief – “Impossible”! This can’t be the great Lion Aslan.  She had personally thrust the dagger into his heart.  She saw him die.  She knew he was dead.  How can he be alive again?  It is “Impossible”!

Many people may not realize that the reason Christians celebrate Easter is to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus.  All of the biblical writers provide detailed accounts of the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus.   These events are the foundation of the Christian faith.  You can read them for yourself in New Testmanet books like Matthew 28, Mark 16, Luke 24, and John 20-21.

For some people, the idea that a dead man could come back to life seems unlikely if not impossible.  Why would intelligent, educated people believe a story like that?  How can someone believe in something that seems impossible?  There are no photographs.  There is no DNA evidence to examine.  Why do millions of Christians around the world believe in the literal, physical resurrection of Jesus Christ?

I would like to share with you in my next article why I believe that Jesus really did rise from the dead.  There are a number of reasons that His resurrection is not only possible but probable.  I hope you will dust off your Bible and take time to read one or more of the chapters listed above.  Examine the details carefully.

I look forward to sharing more of my thoughts with you in my next article.  Easter is coming in only a few weeks.  I hope you will make plans now to attend a church near you on Easter Sunday.

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

 

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 2.17.18

The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire.Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: Weekly02.17.2018

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.

Listen to the Future!

Diamond Bar Musician To Perform On National Broadcast

by Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR — Diamond Bar High School percussionist Jeremy Davis is the recipient of the prestigious Jack Kent Cooke Young Artist Award.

The $10,000 scholarship recipient will perform on the NPR “From the Top” live radio broadcast on Sunday, February 11 at 2 p.m.

Five featured young musicians will perform and share their stories during the 90-minute concert recorded in Boston, Massachusetts.

Jeremy, age 17, will be performing “Land” by Takatsugu Muramatsu on the marimba.

“This experience is pretty amazing!” the talented junior shared in the school’s practice room on Tuesday.

Jeremy first began playing percussion in sixth grade at South Pointe Middle School.

“It was hard, but I stuck with it!” he said.

The teen now performs in both band and orchestra in Diamond Bar High’s award-winning program.

His favorite musical experience has been participating in Carnegie Hall’s National Youth Orchestra of the United States in 2017.

With some of the scholarship funds, Jeremy plans to purchase the huge instrument, which can cost thousands of dollars.

The marimba is too large to tote back and forth like a violin, he explained.

“With percussion, we have to practice at school. Now, I can get one for home!”

The “From the Top” broadcast is a fun and easy way for families to experience classical music and get to know some inspiring people.

The special performance will also be available on a future NPR podcast.

Jeremy, who studies percussion with Kenneth McGrath, says his proudest musical accomplishment has been being selected to appear on From the Top.

Outside of music, he enjoys playing basketball and tennis.

 

Suzanne Somers Will Be in Loma Linda

By Anthony Saude

Clark’s Nutrition is a pioneer in the health food world. They opened the doors of their first location in Riverside in 1972, long before health food became vogue. Today there are stores in Riverside, Loma Linda, Rancho Mirage and Chino.

Nutrition isn’t only about the inside of our bodies; we have to take care of the outside as well. Clark’s is dedicated to nutrition for the inside and outside of our bodies while taking care to being good to the world as well.

Clark’s always has great informative events to show appreciation to their customers with information and education. It has become second nature to expect Clark’s to have cool guests show up at an event. Sunday February 25 is no exception; Clark’s is going to have one their best guest appearances they have ever had.

Suzanne Somers will make a personal appearance at Clark’s Nutrition Loma Linda location at 1 p.m. to talk about her cosmetic line. Clark’s is the only retail partner with actress, Suzanne Somers, to offer, Suzanne Organics, her organic cosmetics and skin care line. You can now treat your skin to a nutrient-rich superfood with Suzanne Organics make-up.

Want to get a free make-over with natural, cruelty-free make-up too? No problem, Clark’s has a make-up section that looks like something you’d see at a MAC make-up counter. Only at this counter you won’t risk being exposed to up to 200 chemicals. Suzanne Organics has no artificial dyes, fragrances, lead, there are no chemical binders, no PEGs or parabens and none of the products were tested on animals.

The event will be held at Clark’s Nutrition located at 11235 Mountain View Ave in Loma Linda on Sunday Feb. 25 at 1pm. If you have any questions about nutrition while you are attending the event there is always a nutrition specialist on site to answer them for you. For more information you can log on to the website at:www.clarksnutrition.com or call 909-478-7714.

 

Eaten Out Of House…

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

​…And Home!.  Many a person who is a head of a household makes this outcry when facing the burdens and responsibilities of having to provide for their families.  They feel so burdened by trying to make ends meet, such as the home mortgage, the taxes, the insurance, utilities, and food.  However, there are much smaller “critters” that can literally “eat” a person “out of house and home” These are pesky little things called termites have been around forever!  Termites are known to eat a lot!   Per Pest World for Kids- sponsored by The National Pest Management Association, “Termite colonies eat non-stop, 24 hours a day, seven days a week!” “They can destroy building foundations, wooden support beams, plastic plumbing pipes, sub-flooring, insulation … even swimming pool liners and filtration systems! Termites can also injure or destroy living trees and shrubs.”

However, we do not want these pesky little creatures in our home to eat up the wooden frames, roofing, window sills, etc.  So why does the real estate industry recommend that an owner of a home regularly schedule inspection and maintenance and to treat the property to control termites before they “eat us out of house and home”? Avoiding the damaging effects of the termites’ ravaging hunger!

The advantages of preventative maintenance boil down to Savings:  If you plan to sell your home, preventative measures are less expensive in costs than having to fix an item after termite damage.  The repairs may add up and subtract from the equity that you have worked so hard to earn on your investment, your home.

Have you seen a tent over a home and wondered, Why that?  That is the indication that the entire structure needs to be treated in treatment.  That is what one would want to avoid having through preventative maintenance. There are various methods in treating against termite, ranging from chemicals to more environmentally friendly (natural) methods.

Find a reputable and licensed termite company that you feel comfortable working with, or referral from family or friends, or you may ask a realtor, or do your own due diligence search.  Consulting with this type of expert will help you plan for your bottom-line savings!  Saving your home!

This article was written by Nef Cortez who is a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca BRE # 00560181, licensed since 1976. He can be reached for more information via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com, or website www.nefcortez.com. Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.

 

In-N-Out Coming to Eastvale

By Jaelyn Fudge

Eastvale – The city of Eastvale is proud to announce that, after years of consideration, the popular fast food restaurant, In-N-Out, is finally arriving in Eastvale. The renowned burger establishment is expected to be 3,880 square feet and accommodate approximately up to 133 indoor and outdoor guests, with the inclusion of a sizable drive thru- lane. This new addition is expected to be located in the Goodman Commerce Center at the southeast corner of Hamner Avenue and Cantu Galleano Ranch Road; near the newly anticipated Costco warehouse store that’s currently under construction. (Scheduled to open June 30)  Although no further information has been released regarding when In-N-Out is expected to open, the citizens and community members of Eastvale are definitely anticipating this new addition. “This is big news for our community, and we’re all excited that In-N-Out has chosen to open a new location in our young and growing community.” Eastvale Mayor Clint Lorimore comments. In the past, it’s been believed that In-N-Out was reluctant to establish itself in the city of Eastvale, as there once wasn’t enough office buildings therefore not enough lunch business. However, with a trend of food and retail chains recently establishing themselves within the once small community of Eastvale, the addition of an In-N-Out is a reflection of the growth and prosperity of the city over the years. While this news has sparked excitement for all local residents, students within the community are equally enthused as well. “When I heard In-N-Out was coming to Eastvale I became really excited because I’ve always had to travel to other In-N-Out locations in Rancho or Norco, which are already crowded enough as it is. So this news is definitely refreshing to hear, I think this new addition will make things more convenient for citizens that desire to eat there.” Eleanor Roosevelt student Kevin Ta states. While the news of this recent development seemingly excites local community members, the establishment of this food chain is significant as it previews what is expected to follow in the up and coming Goodman Commerce Center. Future buildings, retail stores, restaurants, and possibly a multi-story hotel are expected to be included within the vicinity as time progresses. These new establishments are not only exciting for the community, but also have a positive effect upon Eastvale’s local economy, and are also expected to usher in jobs which will provide ample employment opportunities for its citizens.

 

You Can Depend On You

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

Just recently I had an experience that reminded me of how very capable I am and how I can depend on myself.  After my fabulous trip to Antarctica, I found out the airline to fly me home was on strike.  It seemed like I was so alone in this and must admit very frightened.  I needed to get home my mom and dog had been hospitalized when I was gone.  I went to the airport with the other fourteen- hundred people and stood in line for eight hours and finally got somebody to listen to me after sobbing at their counter.  It took two days to make this happen.  Even though I had a great travel agent there wasn’t much she could do from her end.  She told me to go to the airport and stand in line until I could somebody to take pity on me.  They were telling many people it would be eight or nine days till they would have a flight home.  That was unacceptable for me as I really needed to get home.

When I finally boarded the plane that would take me home I cried with such a sense of relief.  I have travelled all over the world and only had two uncomfortable things happen.  I was detained for bringing an apple into Mozambique from South Africa and when I arrived in South Africa after a grueling flight I was yelled at by a customs agent to stand up straight and show some respect.  This airstrike was different it was truly frightening and I felt like I was never going to get home.  The thing that got me home was how I remembered all that I had already gotten myself though.  I thought about all the deaths in my family and all the trauma I had handled and work though in my life.  I remembered how many times I had depended on me to get me though the trauma.  In remembering who I was I was able to find my way home!!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Nancy is now accepting new clients.  She also works as a motivational speaker.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens and can handle many court mandated needs.  For more information about any of these services contact Nancy at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

 

Fun With Grandkids

16By Mark Hopper

We enjoy taking care of two of our grandchildren one day a week.  They like coming to “Grammy’s” house.  I don’t know why it is not my house too, but to them it is known as “Grammy’s” house.

One of the reasons they like to come to our house is that we have a closet full of toys, dolls, and other fun stuff.  I believe it is the toys that are the real attraction.  When they walk into the house, they head right for the closet with the toys.  Maybe they don’t have enough toys at their house!

Recently we decided to go out for lunch.  It is a lot of work to put their car seats in our car and buckle them in.  One is old enough to only need a booster seat.  The younger one has to be secured in a car seat that resembles what the astronauts used in Apollo 13!  There is no moving around when they are buckled into their car seats.

Since both of them enjoy French fries we decided to go to In N Out Burger.  Of course I enjoy In N Out, too!  It was a good choice.  The french fries are great and the employees are attentive to little kids.  One person gave stickers to both of them and another offered them official hats as well.

While we were waiting for our food, we buckled the younger one into a high chair.  She quickly caught the attention of a couple of other customers who smiled and waved at her.  She smiled, laughed and waved back as they maintained this exchange of silent greetings across the next table.

The French fries were a hit.  Our older granddaughter will only eat french fries with plenty of ketchup.  The younger one caught on to the ketchup idea too.  I had a “Double-Double” and my wife went next door to El Pollo Loco and brought back a healthy looking salad.

Don’t worry; the grandkids had a healthy lunch before we went to In N Out.  The French fries were more like dessert!

After lunch, we took time to visit the Michael’s store in the same shopping center.  Grammy wanted to look for a small craft for the older grandchild and something easier for the younger one.  I suddenly realized that she had this planned before we left the house.  There is no stopping a grandmother who has shopping for grandchildren on her mind.

Our adventure was a lot of fun.  We enjoyed a nice lunch and met some nice people.  We contributed to the economy and enjoyed our two precious little grandchildren.  It doesn’t get much better than that!

Let me encourage you to take time to enjoy some of the people in your life this week.  You may have an older parent who would enjoy doing something with you.  You may have some little ones who are happy to simply go out for French fries. You may have some restless teenagers who don’t want to spend time with their parents or grandparents.  Do something anyway.

Don’t wait, do something with someone you love.  You will be glad you did and they will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

11-Year-Old Boy Arrested On Two Robbery Charges

By Anthony Saude

Chino – An 11-year-old Chino boy was and two others were arrested this week in connection with a pair of robberies that took place Sunday night in Chino.

“The boy, who allegedly stole a scooter at knifepoint from a victim on the 5000 block of D Street at approximately 6:36 p.m. was arrested on two counts of robbery, he has not identified due to his age” said Monica Gutierrez The boy was booked into the San Bernardino County Juvenile Detention Center on charges of Robbery, other dangerous weapon. Further investigation led officers to believe he was a suspect in a previous robbery that was reported nearby a only a half-hour earlier, according to Chino Police spokeswoman Monica Gutierrez.

During an investigation, officers learned about a robbery report that was taken at 5:49 p.m. that involved three suspects one of them being the aforementioned boy, in the 13200 block of Sixth Street, the spokeswoman added. The victim, a man was assaulted and robbed by several male suspects. The victim sustained several serious wounds to his face and body during the altercation” said Mrs. Gutierrez. The victim was transported to a local hospital where he was given medical treatment for his injuries.

The boy was arrested later that evening. On Monday a 24 year old suspect, William Rodriquez, of Chino was arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center, for his alleged participation in the crime, on charges of Robbery-Strong arm and probation violation” Mrs. Gutierrez said

Further investigation led to the third suspect being located and arrested, 19-year-old Mark Torres of San Bernardino, was arrested in the 1100 block of 11th Street in San Bernardino. Jail records show that he was booked on suspicion of robbery, assault with a deadly weapon and a gang enhancement. The investigation is ongoing.