Category Archives: The Weekly News

Mother Kills 2-Year-Old; Sentenced To Life

Photo courtesy: SBSD

By Marissa Mitchell

San Bernardino, California – Last week a mother who physically assaulted her 2-year-old with what would become fatal injuries was sentenced to 25 years to life in state prison.

On May 12, Hesperian mother Jaimi Roberts, 24, was sentenced for the crime she had been found guilty for on March 22 of this year: involuntary manslaughter and assault on a child causing death. Her son, Grant Dunn Jr., died of complications due to the injuries she inflicted upon him. Superior Court Judge Eric M. Nakata in Victorville imposed the term.

During the trial, jurors witnessed Roberts’ video-recorded statement, in which she admitted she “dropped elbows” on her son’s abdomen. After autopsy, it was found these stomach blows had ruptured his intestines and brought about his death two days later. She also re-enacted striking the child with her elbow in the video.

Judge Nakata stated, “For you to sit here and tell me this was an accident is outrageous.” Roberts had claimed both in court and during interview that she was “play-wrestling” with her son, and that his death was an “accident.” She claimed no prior child abuse and insisted that they “play-wrestled” on April 22, 2014.

The prosecutor Deputy District Attorney David Foy indicated to the court that Roberts did not procure medical care for the 2-year-old for two days after the injury, even though the toddler was vomiting, could not stand, and felt cold sensations in his legs.

Quoting a probation report, Judge Nakata said: “The crime involved great bodily harm and/or other acts disclosing a high degree of cruelty, viciousness and callousness in that the victim suffered for an extended period of time after the defendant struck him, and made a conscious decision to avoid medical attention for him until after he lost consciousness.”

Paramedics had gone into the Hesperia home of Roberts (then age 21) in the afternoon after the child had lost consciousness. The child was then hospitalized, but died later that afternoon from sepsis in the bloodstream – what occurs once internal organs have been ruptured.

Roberts will serve her sentence in state prison.

Is Anything Really Forever?

By Michael Armijo

 

The hardest day of my life was a year ago in May. It was like every other morning with the exception that it was their anniversary. Mom and dad got up, went to brunch, went home, and then got into a little argument. My dad wanted somewhere to go to be by himself so he went to check on his rental property that was recently vacant.

I got home that night around 9 p.m. and found out my mother had called. Mom was wondering why dad wasn’t home yet, but it was like him to stay at his rental property and fix things. Mom wasn’t too worried, so I went to bed. A few hours later she called me again; “Your father still isn’t home yet, now I’m worried.” At a frantic pace, I went to his rental property and found his truck in the front of a darkened house. With a racing heart and fear to go in and find him, lying there, I called 911 for assistance.

LIFE MAKES A LEFT

I told the operator that I was afraid to enter the house by myself, I was afraid of what I might find. A sheriff deputy arrived and shined his flashlight on the front door. It was so dark at 2 am, I didn’t even notice the front door wide open. We walked inside and there was my daddy, lying in the hallway, lying on his side without movement.

I remember yelling; “He isn’t moving, why isn’t he moving?” The officer grabbed me and dragged me outside, calmed me down, and told me to wait while he checked what on was going on.

At that point I tried to convince myself he was asleep on the floor or just passed out. I was in complete denial that he would be gone – and gone forever – until the paramedics came. They ran into the house in the hopes of helping a victim survive, but three minutes later they walked out. I wasn’t sure what to do, but I knew one thing, I had to try to be responsible, I had to go home and tell my mom.

YOU NEVER KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT

When I told my brother and sisters the news of our father, I received a different reaction from each. But the strongest reaction embedded in my memory is the one from my mom. I called my sisters to help me tell mom about dad, but they lived so far away they couldn’t be there for quite some time. I knew I couldn’t let my mom wait that long, she was waiting for me to bring my father home. I knocked on my neighbor’s door but they couldn’t hear me from their back bedroom. It was at that time I realized that no one was around and I was going to have to do this on my own, so be it.

It wasn’t the screaming or the crying that affected me so much; it was what my mother said. She was angry because she and my father had promised each other they’d leave this earth together. They made a pact. They had a deal. She was angry because he broke that pact. The deal was off. At that point I admired how strong their love was; I admired how much they really loved each other. So much so, they not only discussed how they’d be together, but how they’d leave together as well. I never knew this, and it saddens me that I had to find out about it this way. I guess sometimes regardless of what this life gives you, and regardless of how much you think you know, you find out that you never know what to expect.

A FIRST FOR EVERYTHING

Whoever said, “the hardest time after a death is the first year” was right. It’s been interesting and difficult. Death really does something to people; it really makes them change. You hear things you never thought you’d hear; you see things you never thought you’d see. That first Thanksgiving, that first Christmas. The first time one of your parents isn’t at your son’s sixth grade graduation or your daughter’s recital. Your kid’s birthday parties, your son’s little league games. You sit there enjoying yourself and then sense that something missing. The first time I felt stressed and dad wasn’t there to tell me; “it’ll all work out ok,” was my hardest. Dad wasn’t kidding when he told me; “there’s a first for everything.”

YOU NEVER KNOW

If there was one thing I’ve really had to push into my life is to enjoy it. If one of my children gets out of line or has done something wrong, I talk about it. I don’t scream and yell, and I don’t smack them. I never send them to bed on a bad note, and whenever I leave, I always give them a hug and a kiss (something my 12-year-old son tries to avoid, but I force it on him). I do this because my father and I had the worst relationship in the world. And then one day, for a reason only God may know, I confronted him with my feelings. We really opened up, laid it all on the table, and enjoyed ourselves. It took time for us to heal, but we worked on it, and in the end I had the fortunate opportunity to have a close and loving relationship with my dad. It was the fastest five years of my life.

We had fun, forgave each other, and told each other we loved each other. I am very fortunate to able to say that I don’t have any regrets about our friendship. I always wanted more from life but he always told me to “stop striving for bigger toys and invest yourself in love, because you never know, son, you just never know.”

SOME THINGS ARE FOREVER

There’s something about seeing your parents in enormous grief that does something to a person. They’re your safety net in life, they’re the one thing you can bet your life on who’ll always take you back if you failed out there in the world. They’re the ones that you knew would love you forever, regardless of what you’ve done or where you’ve been. When that gets destroyed or damaged, you come to the realization that you’re definitely, and I mean definitely, on your own. Life becomes this big “do or die” situation. Ready or not it’s time to grow up. You get kind of nervous that the encouraging source in your life is gone. The wisdom they provided turns into a distant whisper.

It’s kind of like when you were in school; you’d walk into the class and find you were having a pop quiz. You felt this panic overwhelm you, and you’d try your hardest to remember what the teacher told you the day before. You had no warning, no time to prepare, the test is here and it’s now. You never anticipated this coming; it never even entered your mind. All you can do now is hope you were paying attention all that time, all you could do was hope you were a good student. Teacher’s not going to give you any answers today; you are on your own.

A day will then come, when life tests you and your ability. After you feel confident you’ve passed that test you realize an important reality: just like the love you never knew that your parents shared, some things really are forever.

   Originally published in August of 1998, this is the very first “Our Life” ever printed in The Weekly News, and the reason why we started this newspaper. It was after writing this story that I decided how short life was, and how important it is to do what you believe in. This story helped me realize what we believe in. Michael can be reached at Michael@anapr.com.

Why Sell Now?

By Nef Cortez

How can it be a good time to buy and at the same time a good time to sell?

Real Estate is local!  Although Macroeconomic factors are the overall influence on the real estate market, individual property values are most influenced by local market conditions. We have all heard the mantra “Location, Location, Location!” in describing the desirability of homes. The right area…the right school district…and for some people, even the right  orientation.

So when is it a good time to sell?

Now would be a good time to sell and “move up”, If you are going to outgrow your current residence within 2-5 years, thereby locking in an interest rate that is still close to historical lows at just under 4 %.

If you are going to downsize due to retirement, or have become an empty nester, it is a good time to sell and lock in the dramatic gains achieved by the huge increase in property values over the last 5 years. Even if you go out and rent for a while, because you are not able to determine exactly where you want to settle in…it might be better to rent in a couple of different locations, sort of “scouting” those areas out to make sure you like them before making the permanent investment.

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

News Tips To Ease Recovery From Addiction

PHOTO SOURCE: Kaspars Grinvalds – Fotolia.com

By StatePoint

Those recovering from an addiction know what a major challenge the process can be on the body and mind, as well as on the wellness of friends and family supporting your endeavor.

While a physician should be consulted in working out a recovery plan, there are steps one can personally take to smooth the road ahead.

Thinking Positively

Recovery is an ongoing process, and won’t be resolved overnight. Knowing this can help you stay motivated when the going gets tough. Acknowledging but also forgiving yourself for past mistakes is a good place to start.

Including family and friends who have been affected by your addiction in this healing process is important.

Feeling Your Best

Addiction puts major stress on the mind and body. Good nutrition and proper sleep can restore your body’s systems and processes.

Seek out a diet that contains probiotics, which replenish the digestive system with beneficial bacteria that may have been depleted as a result of toxins and chemical overload, poor diet, bodily stress and overall poor digestive health. B-vitamins are needed to energize metabolism and proper cell and muscle function, and fish oil with omega-3 fatty acids is proven to support cognitive function and brain health, joint health, heart health, eye health and more.

However, keep in mind that it can be difficult to satisfy all of one’s nutritional needs under normal circumstances, and can be even more challenging when your body is recovering from addiction. In addition to a healthy diet, consider seeking out supplements designed specifically for people in recovery, such as Recovery24, which was developed by addiction recovery experts and a board-certified nutritionist. Recovery24 is designed to replenish your body’s nutrients and support sleep, energy, healthy digestion, and overall well-being around the clock. The special formulation contains key nutrients such as probiotics, B-vitamins, fish oil, chamomile, jujube fruit, lemon balm leaf, phosphatidyl serine and antioxidants. The A.M. packs are taken with the first meal of the day and support sustained energy and mental focus. The P.M. Packs are taken 30 minutes before you go to sleep and support a calm, restful sleep.

The road to recovery is challenging and loved ones may also experience their own stresses, sleeplessness and nutritional gaps. Recovery24 supplements are safe and effective even for those not in recovery. More information can be found at TryRecovery24.com.

Get Active

Your road to recovery should involve new hobbies and interests. Start with some fun, physical activity to get your body moving, get healthier and boost endorphins. Whether it’s training for a 5k or joining a pick-up game of basketball in the park, exercise is a crucial component to your overall wellness.

Get Involved

Consider joining other local organizations — from being an involved member of a religious congregation to participating in a local volunteer group to taking art or music classes at a community center. It’s important to stay focused on positive, healthy activities and goals, and make friends and connections with people who are doing likewise.

Experts know that addiction recovery requires a multifaceted approach that addresses the mind, the soul and the body. While recovering from addiction, take the best care of yourself possible to support your goal.

Chino Valley Officials’ Texts and Emails Must Be Disclosed On All Public Matters

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino Valley, CA – In early March, the California Supreme Court ruled in a unanimous decision to disclose all public-related information regardless of source, a cause supported by open-government advocates.  Cities in and around Chino Valley are looking to comply with said ruling, which generally forces public employees, including politicians, to share texts and emails to public record, even when they come from personal devices.

This ruling came from a long-standing 8-year battle after the city of San Jose refused to release “private” texts and emails to a public records request. These texts and emails, sent by officials, discussed a downtown development project. According to the new ruling, the court stated that communication sent on personal cell phones and computers must be disclosed to the public if they “relate in some substantive way to the conduct of the public’s business.”

In response, the city of Chino Hills has set up email accounts for all public commissions, and is provided a training workshop on Monday May 22 at 7 p.m. in council chambers. Assistant City Attorney Elizabeth Calciano will commence with the training that day.

Now, public officials will be subject to scrutiny on multiple levels. The thought is that they will be disinclined to conduct public business on personal devices or avoid scrutiny.

California Supreme Court Judge Carol A. Corrigan wrote of this recent ruling, “A city employee’s communications related to the conduct of public business do not cease to be public records just because they were sent or received using a personal account.

In the city of Chino, email accounts will be issued to the planning commission, but not to the community services commission because it is not a “decision-making authority,” according to spokeswoman Monica Gutierrez. Even prior to the San Jose court ruling, the city of Chino established a policy encouraging the use of city-issued cell phones and other such devices.

The Chino policy stipulates that all communication on city-issued equipment is subject to perusal at any time, and open to monitoring and public record requests.

The Chino Valley Unified School District spokeswoman Brenda Dunkle stated the district is awaiting recommendations in the middle of May from the CSBA (California School Boards Association) regarding this ruling.  She also stated that the district’s current technology use policy declares that any device accessing the district’s network is not private, whether used on site or off.

Fire Chief Time Shackelford stated he has iterated to his personnel only to use fire district servers and accounts to correspond, create, or store documents and communications related to district business. Training will also be provided for fire station employees.

Various news media representatives have called the decision “a resounding victory for the public.” This new ruling sends a strong message that public officials and employees cannot evade public scrutiny by using personal accounts.

Local governments have expressed concerns about invasion of privacy for its workers, so further concrete details are to come from the California Supreme Court on just how to go about this monitoring. Executive director of the First Amendment Coalition David Synder stated, “If employees are conducting written business about the people’s business on email, that ought to be available to the public. It shouldn’t matter if the email is privately owned or owned by the government.”

 

 

Advanced Improvements Provides Comfort For Your Home

Staff Reports

SoCal – Advanced Improvements is an expert in air conditioning and heating, water heating, water filtration, and solar power.  For over 20 years, they have been providing eco-friendly, energy saving home and office comfort solutions for Riverside, Orange, San Bernardino, San Diego and Los Angeles counties.

Advanced Improvements’ mission is to build top quality home and office improvement projects on time, with exemplary customer service, and within your budget.  Right now, Advanced Improvements is offering specials and discounts on a variety of their products.

Solar:  Whether you’re looking to go completely off the power grid, or just reduce your carbon footprint, Advanced Improvements can help by providing you with solar solutions.  They offer both solar electric (photovoltaic) and solar thermal (solar water heating) technologies.  The average solar system pays for itself in as little as four years.  When you fit your home for solar, you can receive up to 30% in tax credits, and Advanced Improvements has 2.99% financing options available for solar upgrades (OAC).

Water Heating:  Advanced Improvements carries a full line of different models and types of water heaters.  They offer everything from traditional tanks and tankless, to the new hybrids and eco-friendly solar water heaters.  Advanced Improvements specializes in tankless water heaters, claiming the title of the largest tankless water heater installation company in the nation.  They have installed over 10,000 tankless water heaters over the last ten years.  Take advantage of their $500 discount coupon on a Rheem Tankless Water Heater, or $100 discount on a Rheem Tank Water Heater.

Water Filtration: Advanced Improvements offers water filtration systems that protect against hardness elements, iron, rust, sediment, and a variety of other substances that may be present in your water.  Their systems are high flow and low maintenance machines that are designed for optimum performance.  Ask about their $500 discount coupon for Anti-Scale and Carbon Water Filtration systems.

Heating and Air:  Advanced Improvements has trained professionals that provide expert analyses, top quality equipment, and skilled installation or repair of your heating and air conditioning equipment.  They can give your home a heating or cooling system that is not only reliable, but efficient.  They also offer heat pumps, gas furnaces, package units, air handlers, and cooling coils.  Their current heating special will allow you to get $1,500 off in factory rebates for qualifying systems.  Also, ask about their $75 special for a winter tune-up for your current system.

Go Green:  You can GO GREEN with Advanced Improvements, as they provide eco-friendly, energy saving, green products for your home and business.  They can help you go completely independent with solar power, replace your heating and cooling system with a new high-efficiency unit, or lower your energy usage by installing a tankless water heater.

Advanced Improvements stands behind their products and services and is committed to excellence.  They are also committed to the community.  Owners Jason and Athena Hayes have lived in Eastvale for over seven years, and as homeowners, they love to see Eastvale flourish. Advanced Improvements has been the platinum sponsor for the Eastvale Community Foundation’s Annual Golf Tournaments, and they will continue to invest in the City and support its growth.  Make sure to ask about their $500 discount coupon for Eastvale residents only.

Make your home or business comfortable today with Advanced Improvements (Contractor State License Board #947761). Their office is located at1352 E. Valencia Dr, Fullerton, CA 92831, and they can be reached at (888) 887-7808.  Visit their website at AdvancedIMP.com, and see their ad in OurWeeklyNews.

Chaparral Students Make Global Connections

Photo courtesy: WVUSD

By WVUSD

DIAMOND BAR, CA—Chaparral Middle School 8th grader Izzy Reedy and a dozen classmates learned about culture, education, weather, and even sports in Tanzania this year.

But, it wasn’t by opening a textbook or conducting research on a computer.

The Diamond Bar students gained knowledge through a global connection with the Gyekrum Arusha Secondary School, located over 8,500 miles away in East Africa.

Education specialist Kimberly Ramos formed the partnership with teacher Zaituni Njovu and her students through the World Education Connection program.

The students and teachers got to know each other by communicating back and forth using email and Google Hangout.

“They would ask lots of questions and post photos,” Ramos said about the 21st century-learning technology.

“Anything I received from the teacher, I would post on Google Classroom to share with my kids.”

Ramos said her students embraced the program and were amazed with how many similarities they had with their new friends.

“The kids loved seeing each other. And the things we learned this year have had more meaning because we were able to connect with the other half of the ‘Kilimanjaro Squad’ on a personal level.”

The relationship deepened when students recently held a campus clean-up project to provide supplies to the school in Karatu Urusha.

On May 10, global teams shared their thoughts of the power of connection during an inaugural World Education Day event.

Classmates Julia Brandt, Alex Ginez, and Reedy arrived before the 7:45 a.m. opening bell, eager to participate in the live global broadcast.
“Asante Sana!” the students exclaimed in Swahili while waving to one another.

“We got to experience the way they live and learn,” Brant said. “I wouldn’t have changed a thing about this experience!”

“I hope we can stay connected with the kids in Tanzania.”

“The best thing has been the sharing,” Ginez offered.

“We talked about our siblings, our pets, and hobbies. We have a lot in common.”

Students said they also gained appreciation for their own lives after seeing the East African partner school squeeze 80 students inside a class with dirt floors and dilapidated furniture.

“It showed me to be grateful for what I have, and to respect elders and family,” Reedy said.

 

Melty Monterey Jack Burgers

Photo courtesy: Hello Fresh

with Red Onion Jam and Zucchini Fries

 

By Hello Fresh

Cooking Time: 35 mins

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 860 Calories

Ingredients:

  • Garlic- 2 cloves
  • Red Onion- 1
  • Zucchini- 2
  • Mayonnaise- 3 tbsp
  • Balsamic Vinegar- 4 tbsp
  • Panko Breadcrumbs- 1/2 cup
  • Dried Oregano- 2 tsp
  • Ground Beef- 16 oz.
  • Monterey Jack Cheese- 1 cup
  • Potato Buns- 4
  • Ketchup- 4 tbsp

 

  1. PREP Wash and dry all produce. Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Mince or grate garlic until you have ¼ tsp (you may have a clove left over). Halve, peel, and thinly slice onion. Cut zucchini into

3-inch-long pieces, then halve each piece lengthwise. Cut each into thin wedges.

 

  1. MAKE AIOLI In a small bowl, mix together 1½ TBSP mayonnaise (we sent more) and as much of the garlic as you like. Season with salt and pepper.

 

3 MAKE ONION JAM Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until caramelized, 8-10 minutes, tossing occasionally. Stir in balsamic vinegar and 1 tsp sugar. Continue cooking until syrupy, 1-2 minutes more. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from pan and set aside in another small bowl.

 

4 MAKE ZUCCHINI FRIES While onions are cooking, toss together zucchini and ½ TBSP aioli in a medium bowl until wedges are evenly coated. Add panko, oregano, and a large pinch of salt and pepper and toss so that crumbs stick to zucchini. Spread on a lightly oiled baking sheet. Bake in oven until panko is golden-brown, about 15 minutes, tossing halfway through. TIP: It’s OK if not all the breadcrumbs stick.

 

5 TOAST BUNS AND MAKE SALAD Split buns down center, then place on baking sheet with sweet potatoes to toast, 2-3 minutes. In another large bowl, whisk together a pinch of ginger, a pinch of garlic, and a drizzle of oil. Season with salt, pepper, and more garlic and ginger (as desired). Add spring mix and toss to coat.

 

6 FINISH AND SERVE Spread a little sriracha mayo on each bun, then top with a burger and remaining cilantro. Serve with salad, sweet potato, and any remaining sriracha mayo for dipping on the side. TIP: Add a little salad to your burger, if desired.

A Cow Bell

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Many years ago my wife and I and a group of adults from our church traveled to Romania.  We worked in partnership with a young pastor and growing church in the middle of the country.

In addition to visiting their church in the city of Cluj, we spent a week together in a rural village near the Transylvania mountains.

A number of young couples participated in a week-long marriage retreat.

In addition to daily discussions on marriage, there was also time for recreation and relaxation.  The Romanians were just as competivte as Americans.  Coed volleyball games were enjoyed by all of us.

One day during the week, I saw a line of cows walking down a dirt road near the field where we were playing volleyball.

The lead cow had a small brass bell hanging from a strap around his neck.  He was leading the other cows back into the village at the end of the day from the grassy fields nearby.

I told the members of our team that we were going to continue to play volleyball until the “cows come home”.  They didn’t know how accurate my prediction was.  We ended the game a few minutes later after the cows passed by us on the dirt road.

Recently while I was playing with our granddaughter at our house,  she had discovered a small cow bell on a self in our bedroom.  She was intrigued by its size and sound.  She didn’t know that this small bell was a gift from our friends in Romania.

I had not noticed that bell for years, but it immediately brought back fond memories of our trip to Romania and the wonderful friends we met there many years ago.

You probably have some keepsakes and souvenirs that remind you of people and events in your life.  You may have a picture or a plaque that brings back special memories of places you have been.

In one example in the Bible,  the people of Israel piled up twelve large boulders along the bank of the Jordan River.  These large stones were to serve as a reminder that the Israelites crossed the Jordan River on dry ground (Joshua chapter 4).These large stones were to remind future generations of this remarkable event in their nation’s history.

I think we all need visual, tangible objects to help us remember special events and special people in our lives.  You probably have some things around your house – pictures, trophies, and souveniours.  Let me encourage you to take some time this week to look around your house or office and reflect on the memories you find there.

Take time to tell your children and grandchildren the meaning and significance of some of the things that are hanging on your walls or sitting on the shelves in your house.  Maybe it is time to add a few new ones while you have the time.  You will be glad you did and they will too!

 

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

“Protect Chino” Launches Prop H Campaign

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino, CA – There is a grass-roots group – “Protect Chino No on H” – campaigning against a large housing development that will be built if passed on special ballot July 11. Developer D.R. Horton plans to build 180 homes in north Chino if the special election ballot passes.

There is vehement opposition to this ballot in and around the surrounding neighborhoods. If approved, the measure stipulates that 20 acres of rural land south of Francis Avenue would be rezoned. In place of rural space will be 12 single-family homes, 87 detached single-family homes, and 73 condos.

May 20 there will be a community meeting scheduled for 4 p.m. at Wolfinbarger landscape store, 5675 Francis Avenue, in Chino, for those opposing Measure H.

In response to this group, property owners of the rural land have organized a committee called “Support Chino Jobs and Schools, Yes, on Measure H.”

Currently, 30 acres of parceled land north of Cinemark Movies in Chino is zoned for one house per acre, possessing the grazing land and 8 single-family houses. In a Chino City Council meeting in April, the council voted 4-1 to place Measure H on the ballot for citywide election.

Chairman of “No on H” Ed Layaye stated, “The neighborhood is very concerned about this project, “We’re meeting weekly and figuring out how to compete with a multi-billion dollar corporation like D.R. Horton.”

Former mayor Larry Walker is the group treasurer and wrote the argument opposing Measure H, stating, “I’ve become aware of a dramatic number of developments cooking in Chino and it seems like every one is a violation of the general plan,” he said. “I told the people 40 years ago the general plan should be the guide for the development of Chino.”

The property owners of the rural land are long-time Chino residents, and state that this development is a benefit for the city. Matt Evans and father-in-law Ron Brewer, stated that more than 600 Chino residents have expressed support for the project.

Evans declared, “   “Ron Brewer and I believe that Measure H will be a positive step forward for our entire community. It will enable young Chino residents the opportunity to raise their families here and offers new home ownership in an affordable part of the city.”

Other owners echo this sentiment, saying that this development will lure more potential residents to Chino, thus bringing in more economical revenue to be used municipally.

Special ballot is to occur on July 11 of this year.

Competitive Coverage To Meet Your Family’s Needs

Melanie Smith-Rice of State Farm Insurance in Norco.

Melanie Smith-Rice of State Farm Insurance in Norco.

Staff Reports

Norco – At the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office, 24-hour good neighbor service is at the forefront.  Smith-Rice is confident that she can meet your needs for all insurance and financial services, and promises to wow you with expert professional service.

A State Farm Agent since 1985 and a Corona resident since 1971, Smith-Rice understands the needs of the community and has worked hard to provide a palette of services that makes one-stop-shopping easy and affordable.  Along with Auto insurance, Smith-Rice provides Home Owners and Renters Insurance.

“A home is a big investment, so let’s make sure you have enough coverage at the right rate,” says Smith-Rice.  As well, protecting your personal property may be more affordable than you think.  “The average person has over $200,000 worth of stuff that is probably not covered under your landlord’s policy.  That’s where our State Farm Renters insurance comes into play,” she adds.

More important than the care of your property is the care of your family.  Along with Life Insurance, the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office can provide various types of health insurance, including Long-Term Care should you become unable to care for yourself.

And for the business owner, Smith-Rice says, “I understand the needs of a business owner like you.  Together we can help protect your business and plan a roadmap for your financial future.

As if all this weren’t enough, the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office can provide you with financial services such as Mutual Funds, Annuities, and even Banking (yes, Banking!), including Bank Accounts, Credit Cards, and Loans.

Don’t wait another minute to help ensure your family’s well being.  Call the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office today, and get peace of mind in return.  A staff of professional experts is standing by at (951) 734-5290, or Toll-Free at (888) 734-5292.  They are located at 2027 River Road in Norco, in the Stater Bros. shopping center at Second Street and River Road.

Walnut Valley Students Honored At Lunch With The Principal Event

Photo courtesy: WVUSD

By WVUSD

WALNUT, CA—Nine students were treated to a sizzling reward for achieving their personal best during the 19th annual Benihana Lunch with the Principal on Tuesday.

Each of the nine elementary schools in the Walnut Valley Unified School District chose a hard-working student to celebrate during the special lunchtime adventure held at the City of Industry restaurant.

Congratulations to this year’s fifth grade honorees: Aayati Sangal– Castle Rock, DJ Ruffin – Cyrus J. Morris, Estrella Gallegos – Collegewood, Alicia Agalos – Evergreen, Alice Shen – Quail Summit, Leah Owens – Maple Hill, Brianna Velez – Vejar, Sunny Morales – Walnut Elementary, and Emily Santos – Westhoff.

Personal chefs entertained audiences while creating flaming onion ring volcanos, drizzling eggs into a cartoon characters, and flipping shrimp tails in stovepipe hats.

After enjoying the teppan-style meal, principals took turns sharing success stories about their students.

“Not only has Emily achieved academic excellence, she perseveres through hard times, she’s a fabulous friend, and always follows the Golden Rule,” said Westhoff Elementary Principal Denise Rendon.

“Estrella is very hard-working, resilient, and shows genuine compassion to classmates,” said Collegewood Elementary Principal Mary Wendland.

Evergreen Elementary Principal Carolyn Wills shared that her honoree was selected for demonstrating attributes from the school’s the Keys to Success character education program.

“Alicia shows perseverance and kindness to everyone and is sure to be very successful!”

Students received certificates, Benihana chef’s hats, and keepsake photos.

 

Straight Talk With Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Danice Akiyoshi,

My father has a terminal illness that he is in denial about.  He has asked me to take him house hunting close to the beach so he can have a better yard to enjoy the sun.  He is frail and weak and I’m not sure that he can survive the move or get used to a new neighborhood.  He sleeps a lot so I’m not sure when he’s planning on enjoying this new yard that he talks about.  He would also be moving away from his health providers which he says he hates.  None of this is logical to me, but I want him to be happy.  Please help.

Bob

 

Hi Bob,

Sometimes when people are faced with a difficult diagnosis they try to become involved in things that give them the impression that they are still involved in the process of life and true living.  Do you think you could provide these feelings for your dad if you spent some days at the beach or in the mountains or even in the desert?  We have so many wonderful locations in our area that help people feel like they’re on a true get away.  The week end cruises might be a good idea too. Remind him that moving has far too many nasty tasks involved and that having fun and enjoying the nice weather is a possibility without the hardships of moving.  I hope you find a way to enjoy this time together.

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her at straighttalk@ candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com

A Real Estate Minute

By Gil Rivera

 

This is my first in a series of short articles giving you updates about the local real estate market. We are all busy with our jobs, family and friends so I will make these articles short enough to read in  “A Real Estate Minute”!

As for my background, I’ve been a State Certified Real Estate Appraiser for 25 years and have owned my real estate sales company, SellYourCasa.com, for the past 17 years. I appraise over 250 homes a year for refinances, sales, listings, trusts, bankruptcies, divorces, and estates. I’ve lived in Diamond Bar for the past 26 years. I appraise homes from Los Angeles thru the San Gabriel Valley to the Inland Empire and down thru North Orange County.

As I write this, May 2017 has come upon us and the 2nd financial quarter is almost complete. It is still a SELLER’S market! In the past few weeks, homes have been selling within 7-14 days! Ever since the interest rates went up at the end of March, the market has been booming. Why? Many Buyers who were sitting on the fence decided to take action before the rates rise again. Many buyers equals More offers which in turn yields Higher prices for Sellers!

 

Happiness Is Free For Everybody

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

They don’t sell happiness at the mall or online.  Happiness is free and available to all that want it.  Happiness is in those indescribable amazing moments.  Those moments that give you goose bumps and really let you know you are alive.  I call them as-good –as- it-gets moments.  I know the world feels hard but that doesn’t mean we can’t embrace the good and all the wonderful we have in our lives.  I think the secret to happiness is in feeling grateful every day for all that we are blessed with and not taking all the little miracles about life for granted.  The honor of being alive each day is truly a little miracle and an opportunity to be happy.

Take this moment out and take a moment to be grateful, to smile and to feel how you deserve to feel every moment of every day.  Now think about what you allow to steal your happiness and make a promise to yourself that you no longer will allow that anymore.  We all have hard pieces in our stories regarding our lives.  It’s in our reaction that we have the power.  Even though we have disappointments, loss, trauma and bad experiences we still have the power to decide we really want to be happy.  In fact in deciding we are going to be happy no matter what we are incorporating a fabulous coping skill into our tool boxes.  Learning to love yourself helps with feeling you are deserving of happiness every day.  Let go of the guilt and forgive yourself for whatever you have done.  Self-pity is also the root to unhappiness.  The past needs to be something that we all just learn from. The present is truly a gift and an opportunity to be happy each and every day. Make today the day you forgive yourself and set yourself free by choosing happiness!

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.

 

History 101

Photo courtesy: Google Images

MAY 23, 1934 : POLICE KILL FAMOUS OUTLAWS BONNIE AND CLYDE

History.com

On this day in 1934, notorious criminals Bonnie Parker and Clyde Barrow are shot to death by Texas and Louisiana state police while driving a stolen car near Sailes, Louisiana.

Bonnie Parker met the charismatic Clyde Barrow in Texas when she was 19 years old and her husband (she married when she was 16) was serving time in jail for murder. Shortly after they met, Barrow was imprisoned for robbery. Parker visited him every day, and smuggled a gun into prison to help him escape, but he was soon caught in Ohio and sent back to jail. When Barrow was paroled in 1932, he immediately hooked up with Parker, and the couple began a life of crime together.

After they stole a car and committed several robberies, Parker was caught by police and sent to jail for two months. Released in mid-1932, she rejoined Barrow. Over the next two years, the couple teamed with various accomplices to rob a string of banks and stores across five states–Texas, Oklahoma, Missouri, New Mexico and Louisiana. To law enforcement agents, the Barrow Gang–including Barrow’s childhood friend, Raymond Hamilton, W.D. Jones, Henry Methvin, Barrow’s brother Buck and his wife Blanche, among others–were cold-blooded criminals who didn’t hesitate to kill anyone who got in their way, especially police or sheriff’s deputies. Among the public, however, Parker and Barrow’s reputation as dangerous outlaws was mixed with a romantic view of the couple as “Robin Hood”-like folk heroes.

Their fame was increased by the fact that Bonnie was a woman–an unlikely criminal–and by the fact that the couple posed for playful photographs together, which were later found by police and released to the media. Police almost captured the famous duo twice in the spring of 1933, with surprise raids on their hideouts in Joplin and Platte City, Missouri. Buck Barrow was killed in the second raid, and Blanche was arrested, but Bonnie and Clyde escaped once again. In January 1934, they attacked the Eastham Prison Farm in Texas to help Hamilton break out of jail, shooting several guards with machine guns and killing one.

Texan prison officials hired a retired Texas police officer, Captain Frank Hamer, as a special investigator to track down Parker and Barrow. After a three-month search, Hamer traced the couple to Louisiana, where Henry Methvin’s family lived. Before dawn on May 23, Hamer and a group of Louisiana and Texas lawmen hid in the bushes along a country road outside Sailes. When Parker and Barrow appeared, the officers opened fire, killing the couple instantly in a hail of bullets.

All told, the Barrow Gang was believed responsible for the deaths of 13 people, including nine police officers. Parker and Barrow are still seen by many as romantic figures, however, especially after the success of the 1967 film Bonnie and Clyde, starring Faye Dunaway and Warren Beatty.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 5.20.17

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: OurWeekly.05-20-2017

City of Chino Hills Launches Mobile App

Staff Reports

 

Chino Hills, CA – The City of Chino Hills is proud to announce the launch of a customized App for Chino Hills residents and visitors. The official City of Chino Hills App is now available for free in the Apple App Store and the Google Play Marketplace for Android. Residents and visitors can stay connected with the community through their smart phone with just a few taps of the screen.

App users have access to incredible information about the City’s trails and parks with a simple touch of the smartphone screen. City staff completed a major project to compile useful information for trail and park users in the City as part of the Healthy Hills Program which promotes healthy lifestyles for residents. Click on any trail and check difficulty, time estimates for beginning hikers, distance, and even elevation gain. A chart shows the elevation of the entire trail so hikers can decide if they are ready to tackle a hike with multiple climbs in elevation. Trail photos, trailhead locations, access points, parking availability, and connections to other trails are noted and shown on a map. With GIS enabled on the smartphone, users can track their progress on the trail. For people without a smartphone, trails information is also available on the City website at http://www.chinohills.org/Trails.

Take a tour around the App for access to much more information. Looking to adopt a pet? Click on “Adopt-A-Pet” and be linked to photos of pets that are available at the Inland Valley Humane Society. Click on “News” for current events or items of interest. Click on “Recreation” for quick links to information on parks, facilities, and local attractions. Select any park or facility to view photos, special amenities and features, and get directions to the park. Some locations feature 360 degree video tours. Users may also easily report items of concern to the City from their smartphone. Select “Report an Issue” and report graffiti, a streetlight outage, code enforcement issues, and water waste or submit a service request. Residents taking those amazing pictures of Chino Hills from their smart phones can now share beauty shots of through a picture share feature on the app.

5 Simple Ways to Naturally Relieve Bloating

By StatePoint

 

Bloating is not only uncomfortable, but it can be particularly inconvenient when you want to look and feel your best in the summer.

While symptoms can seem unpredictable, there are simple and natural ways you can prevent and relieve both bloating and gas.

  • Up your fiber. You’ve probably heard that fiber is essential for your digestive system. What you may not know is that certain types of fiber called prebiotics feed the bacteria in your gut. Without enough of it, your microbial diversity can be limited, negatively impacting your ability to break down and metabolize food. Examine your diet and add whole foods rich in prebiotic fiber, or find a food-based prebiotic supplement to ensure you’re getting enough each day.
  • Eat mindfully. Overeating, as well as eating too quickly, causes air to get trapped in your digestive tract. Eat mindfully and slowly. It’ll help you feel fuller faster and keep your abdomen in-check.
  • Know yourself. Follow your gut and understand what works and what doesn’t for your body. From gluten and dairy to nuts and fried foods, and way too much sugar in just about everything made in a factory, it’s important to bring awareness to how your body handles certain ingredients. A holistic-minded, general medical practitioner can help you identify the food sources that make your gut more likely to swell.
  • Consider digestive enzymes. The enzymes in your digestive system break down food so it can nourish your body. Sadly, the number of enzymes in your body decreases as you get older or more stressed out, which opens the door for gas, bloating and irregularity.

Consider taking an enzyme supplement or eating more enzyme-rich foods such as raw fruits and veggies. Also, be sure to find some time to shake off daily stress.

  • Support your microbes. Gas and bloating are inevitable if your gut health isn’t in great shape. Unfortunately, many aspects of modern life can deplete the beneficial bacteria we’re meant to have and create a microbial imbalance. The good news? Taking an effective probiotic supplement is one of the most powerful steps you can take toward achieving a lifestyle free of gas and bloating. Doing so can also support overall wellness, giving you more energy, improving digestion, strengthening your immune system, and even optimizing your metabolism.

Banish the bloat by trying a premium probiotic formula designed to survive stomach acids like Hyperbiotics PRO-15 which can now be found at your local Target store. With 15 different strains of health-enhancing bacteria and a patented time-released delivery method, the sensitive probiotic organisms are released over an eight-to 10-hour window so that they bypass the acidic environment of your stomach and arrive at their destination alive, where they can set up shop and get to work supporting your digestion at its core.

To learn more, visit hyperbiotics.com or join the conversation on social media at #followyourgut.

For a summer of confidence and comfort, take steps to support your wellness and relieve dreadful gas and bloating by focusing on your digestive health.

Our Life: May Day

By Michael Armijo

May Day is what alarms me. Not because of the significance in history, but the beginning of another “bad memory” time in life. May Day was a traditional day of celebration for laborers across the world, but can also be remembered as a distress call from someone in despair. For me, May Day wasn’t so kind.

ROUND ONE: A few years ago right before Cinco de Mayo, my buddy was going to the hospital. A simple surgery, not to last too long. Maybe a few days in the hospital. It was a “check” on something protruding from his kidney. Not life threatening, more like an exploratory procedure. Well, something went awry, and the laparoscopic procedure went to a surgery. All seemed fine until my dear friend was in deep pain.

Doctors thought of it as a reaction to a “first surgery,” that my friend had never been cut open so his pain was foreign to him. So they discounted his pain as “usual.” But there was nothing usual about what happened. It wasn’t until the morphine didn’t help that he ended up in ICU.

That night they did a CT Scan and found they had accidentally nicked his intestine, which led to his body becoming septic and he suffered from multiple organ failure. But the doctors were hopeful and he seemed to be recovering.

The next morning around 5 am I texted his wife “how’s mike doing?’ Her response was devastating. “He passed away.” I was in such disbelief that I had to go into my daughters room and ask her if I had been reading the text correctly. I thought maybe I misunderstood. I did not. He had passed and there was nothing we could do about it.

ROUND TWO: I remember eating a home made Cinco de Mayo dinner and then making a plate for my father to enjoy. I only lived a block away so I walked over there and gave it to him. He wasn’t feeling well, gestural intestinal problems left him with severe stomach pain. He was like a warrior in battle when it came to illnesses. So I wasn’t too worried. But what I didn’t know that this was the last time I would see him alive. The last time I had an opportunity to give him a hug. Of course I took the opportunity for granted and passed on the hug. Always thinking tomorrow will always be there.

The next day, my parents anniversary, they fought and he left. My mom called me late at night that he wasn’t there. So I proceeded to find him at his rental property in Artesia. After the police and the paramedics came, I was left to wonder why life ends so abruptly. And am I spared?

So May Day has a new meaning that each year I think about. I used to dwell on it and let it affect me. But as the years have passed, and the mistakes have taken their toll, I am left to accept the fact that life does change. It moves on. Sometimes it’s a sad day, but many times it’s a new beginning. It all depends on our outlook on life. It can be that we are looking for the next adventure within our lives or that we can sulk and dishonor the memory of those who have passed by being destructive with our emotions. Selfish with our actions. Self centered about our intentions. Harsh realities can sometimes allow us to redefine a time we can turn a call of distress to a time of celebration. Making it an enjoyable time I now call May Day.