Category Archives: The Weekly News

Vejar Sends Jared Boxes To Local Hospital

Ambassadors of Hope

By Kelli Gile  

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile

Walnut—As the school year wrapped up at Vejar Elementary, student ambassadors got ready to send 52 special gifts of hope to hospitalized children.

Each classroom on campus filled a plastic shoebox with small toys, paints, games, stuffed animals, craft kits, and puzzles for a girl or boy of a specific age. All donations were delivered to the City of Hope.

The Jared Box Project, a non-profit organization, is designed to provide a diversion to young patients in emergency rooms, patient rooms, and surgical centers as they receive chemotherapy and other medical treatments.

Teachers Susie Winter and Brenda Stone advise the 4th and 5th grade Vejar Student Ambassadors (VSA) service club who headed up the school-wide project.

“It was so fun to watch these kids filling Jared Boxes for their peers in hospitals. It was a great way to learn empathy and being part of a community,” Winter said.

Since 2001, over 200,000 Jared Boxes have been delivered across the United States.

“Hopefully our efforts bring a smile and comfort to those children and their families who receive a Jared Box,” added Stone.

 

 

Speedy Italian Meatballs With Smoked Tomato Linguine

By Hello Fresh  

Photo Courtesy Hello Fresh

Photo Courtesy Hello Fresh

There’s a reason why spaghetti and meatballs is typically a Sunday night dinner—it takes hours to make! This version uses Italian sausage as a meatball shortcut, eliminating extra prep while adding delicious flavor. Smoky paprika gives this marinara a unique kick.

Cooking Time: 30 min

Nutrition: Calories: 839 cal, cal | Fat: 36g, Sat. Fat: 12 g, Sugar: 17 g

Ingredients:

  • Italian sausage- 9 oz.
  • Linguine- 6 oz.
  • Onion- 1
  • Carrot- 1
  • Smoked Paprika- 1t
  • Dried Thyme- 1t
  • Parmesan Cheese- ¼ cup
  • Diced Tomatoes- 1 box
  • Sugar- ½ t
  • Oil- 2t

Preparation:

  1. Prep the ingredients: Wash and dry all produce. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Halve, peel, and finely dice the onion. Peel, then finely dice the carrot.
  2. Start the marinara: Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the carrot and onion and cook, tossing, for about 5 minutes, until softened. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Form the meatballs and boil the pasta: Meanwhile, remove the sausage from the casings; discarding the casings. Wet your fingers, then form the sausage into Tablespoon-sized meatballs. Add the linguine to the boiling water and cook for 9-11 minutes, until al dente, drain.
  4. Finish the marinara: Add the tomatoes and 1 cup water to the pan with the veggies and bring to a boil. Add ½ teaspoon sugar and half the smoked paprika (or more if you prefer a smokier flavor) to the pan. Season generously with salt and pepper. Reduce to a low simmer.
  5. Cook the meatballs: Heat a drizzle of oil in another large pan over medium-high heat. Add the sausage meatballs to the pan and cook for 6-8 minutes, rotating to brown on all sides. When finished, add them to the marinara.
  6. Toss and serve: Add the linguine, thyme, and half the parmesan cheese to the marinara. Toss for 1-2 minutes, until thoroughly combined and heated through. Serve the speedy Italian meatballs with smoked tomato linguine, garnished with the remaining parmesan cheese and enjoy!

 

Concerts And Movies In The Park

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar- On June 15, Diamond Bar’s popular Concerts in the Park and Movies under the Stars have returned to Sycamore Canyon Park and will continue until August 3.

The events feature a live musical performance that start at 6:30 p.m. and are followed by a  family-friendly movie.

Diamond Bar nonprofits have additional festivities during the concert such as, free games and activities for children, information and giveaways for adults, foot and other concessions.

Following is a list provided by the City of Diamond Bar for things you should keep in mind:

  • As a safety precaution and a courtesy to others, barbecues or other portable cooking appliances will be not be permitted. Also, no pets – only registered service animals will be allowed.
  • Beach blankets or low-back chairs are encouraged for open grass seating, and outside food and non-alcoholic beverages are allowed.
  • Free parking and frequent shuttle service to and from the Diamond Bar Golf Course parking lot and Sycamore Canyon Park will be available starting 5:30pm and through the end of the movie.

Following is the list of events scheduled for the summer:

  • June 29 – Band: Stone Soul (Soul) Movie: Cinderella (2015)
  • No Event on July 6
  • July 13 – Band: Saved by the Band (90s Pop/Rock) Movie: Hotel Transylvania 2
  • July 20 – Band: Yard Sale (Classic Rock) Movie: Inside Out
  • July 27 – Band: Hot August Night (Tribute to Neil Diamond) Movie: Mary Poppins
  • August 3 – Band: Cold Duck (70s Top 40) Movie: The Good Dinosaur

Sycamore Canyon Park is located at 22930 Golden Springs Drive. For additional information you may visit www.DiamondBarCA.gov/specialevents or call (909) 839-7070

 

 

Did You Know?

By FamilyDoctor.org  Heat Stroke 6

What causes heat exhaustion and heatstroke?

Heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke, occur when your body can’t keep itself cool. As the air temperature rises, your body stays cool when your sweat evaporates. On hot, humid days, the evaporation of sweat is slowed by the increased moisture in the air. When sweating isn’t enough to cool your body, your body temperature rises, and you may become ill.

What is heat exhaustion?

Heat exhaustion happens when your body gets too hot. It can be caused by physical exercise or hot weather. You may experience:

  • Heavy sweating
  • Feeling weak and/or confused
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Dark-colored urine, which indicates dehydration

What is heatstroke?

Heatstroke is when the internal temperature of the body reaches 104°F. It can happen when your body gets too hot during strenuous exercise or when exposed to very hot temperatures, or it can happen after heat exhaustion isn’t properly treated. Heatstroke is much more serious than heat exhaustion. Heatstroke can cause damage to your organs and brain. In extreme cases, it can kill you.

Symptoms of heatstroke

  • High fever (104°F or higher)
  • Severe headache
  • Dizziness and feeling light-headed
  • A flushed or red appearance to the skin
  • Lack of sweating
  • Muscle weakness or cramps
  • Nausea
  • Vomiting
  • Fast heartbeat
  • Fast breathing
  • Feeling confused, anxious or disoriented
  • Seizures

Do medicines affect heatstroke?

The following are some medicines that can put you in danger of heatstroke because they affect the way your body reacts to heat:

  • Allergy medicines (antihistamines)
  • Some blood pressure and heart medicines (beta-blockers and vasoconstrictors)
  • Diet pills and illegal drugs such as cocaine (amphetamines)
  • Laxatives
  • Some medicines that treat mental health conditions (antidepressants and antipsychotics)
  • Seizure medicines (anticonvulsants)
  • Water pills (diuretics)

Get medical help right away if you have these warning signs:

  • Skin that feels hot and dry, but not sweaty
  • Confusion or loss of consciousness
  • Frequent vomiting
  • Shortness of breath or trouble breathing

What should I do after having heat exhaustion or heatstroke?

Having heat exhaustion or heatstroke makes you more sensitive to hot conditions for about a week afterwards. Be especially careful not to exercise too hard, and avoid hot weather. Your doctor can tell you when it is safe to return to your normal activities.

 

Stay Safe This Fourth Of July Holiday

Chino Valley Fire District

Chino Valley – The Chino Valley Fire District reminds residents that fireworks of any kind are prohibited in the City of Chino Hills and in the unincorporated County areas.  State Fire Marshal approved “Safe and Sane” fireworks can be used in the City of Chino, except in the area south of Pine Avenue and in the area east of Euclid Avenue between Merrill and Kimball avenues.

 

“Safe and Sane” fireworks do not fly or blow up and are registered with the California State Fire Marshal as a “Safe and Sane” firework.  In the City of Chino, these fireworks can only be used or possessed in residential areas from noon on July 1st through midnight July 4th, and not on school grounds, parking lots, commercial areas or parks.

 

The Chino Valley Fire District, Chino Police Department and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department/Chino Hills Police Department will be enforcing zero tolerance for illegal fireworks.  The penalty for using illegal fireworks is up to a $1,000 fine and up to one year in jail.  Parents/guardians will be held liable for any fire suppression costs, damages or injuries caused by their children’s use of fireworks.

 

The Chino Valley Fire District encourages residents to enjoy the various professional fireworks shows scheduled throughout the county.  Below are some helpful tips for the use of “Safe and Sane” fireworks.

 

  • Always read and follow the directions
  • Have an adult supervise all fireworks activities
  • Buy from a reliable fireworks vendor
  • Ignite fireworks outside and have a water source available
  • Never experiment with fireworks, modify fireworks or try to make fireworks of your own
  • Ignite fireworks one at a time
  • Never reignite malfunctioning fireworks
  • Store unused fireworks in a cool, dry place
  • Never throw fireworks or carry them in your pocket

 

“Please make safety a priority while using fireworks to celebrate the July 4th Holiday” said Fire Chief Tim Shackelford.

 

For additional information regarding fireworks, visit our website at www.chinovalleyfire.org.

 

Boys Republic High School’s Class Of 2016

CVUSD

Graduates from the Boys Republic School in Chino Hills were excited to receive their diplomas.

Photo courtesy: CVUSD
Graduates from the Boys Republic School in Chino Hills were excited to receive their diplomas.

Chino Valley- Seven Boys Republic High students graduated on June 17 in the chapel of the private, nonprofit, nonsectarian school and treatment community for troubled youth in Chino Hills.
Chino Valley Unified School District oversees the high school.
The Boys Republic High School Annual Awards Ceremony included awards for underclassmen and graduates, some powerful speeches about the boys’ struggles to set their lives on the right path, and the presentation of diplomas.
“We have all been in the position where people said we wouldn’t succeed…Today, we celebrate that we can succeed,” said graduate Lowell Nichols, 18, who was asked to speak for Boys Republic High’s Class of 2016.
“Our poor choices so far have taken us places we shouldn’t have gone,” Nichols said. He reminded underclassmen in the audience that they have to be “willing to take a risk and do the work.”
Nichols said he was blinded by people on the streets and also blinded to opportunities that were available to him.
“Without education, there is no opportunity, and without opportunity, there is no hope,” he said. “…We all make choices, but in the end, we are our choices…Courage is not being fearless, it is being scared to death and making the right choice anyway.”
He called Boys Republic the turning point in his life.
Nichols received the Crombie Allen Award from the Rotary Club. The award was established in 1929 by Rotarian Crombie Allen, then publisher and editor of the Ontario Daily Bulletin newspaper, to promote higher ideals of citizenship and attainment among the students of Boys Republic.
Boys Republic High Principal Carl Hampton, who previously served as administrator at Chino Hills High, told the boys they are now faced with other choices: “What will you do? How will you structure your life?”
“When hard times come – and they are going to come – not everything is going to be easy,” Hampton said. He advised the boys to make their choices now so they do not have to react to life at the spur of a moment.
“You did it and I am so proud of you,” Hampton said of their graduation. “I’ve worked at many schools, including a really big one down the street, but nothing gives me more pleasure than seeing you succeed.”
After receiving their diplomas, the boys shook the hands of Chino Valley Unified School District (CVUSD) Board members Sylvia Orozco and Pamela Feix, and CVUSD Superintendent Wayne M. Joseph. The boys also greeted teachers and staff members along a wall of the chapel.
A luncheon was held following the commencement ceremony.

Walnut Resident Killed In Crash

Staff Reports

Walnut– Two young men died June 17 in an accident on Interstate 10 involving a semi truck.

Walnut resident, Juan Leon Jr, 23 years old and Nicolas Madrigales, 20 years old, were co-workers on their way to work. According to local reports, the two had been traveling the opposite direction causing a head on collision with a semi-truck. The two victims had to be cut from the wreckage by county firefighters.

According to Jennifer Fuhrman of the Riverside County Fire Department, a third person was at the scene and evaluated but unhurt from the accident.

A GoFundMe account was created for the families: https://www.gofundme.com/2a344rmg

If you ever encounter a truck accident in Desert Center, take these important steps afterwards:

As the trucking industry grows in Desert Center, more and more truck accidents are happening.

Commercial trucks are common on the roads, and their size, weight, and many blind spots pose significant dangers to other drivers. And when a truck accident occurs, victims often suffer serious, debilitating injuries that require long­-term medical care. Fatality truck crashes are common.

An experienced Desert Center truck accident lawyer is needed to manage an insurance claim and hire experts such as engineers and accident scene investigators who preserve and document evidence.

Learn more about the next steps to take after a serious or fatal accident by visiting: http://www.accidentdatacenter.com

Man Arrested For Felony Evading

Staff Reports

Riverside– A Riverside resident was arrested on June 9, for felony evading, vehicle theft, and a hit and run collision. Officer Sandoval was on an unrelated traffic stop when he heard the suspect driving at high speeds toward him.

The suspect identified as 19-year-old, Alejandro Gonzalez was traveling at high speeds exceeding 70 mph through residential neighborhoods. Gonzalez allegedly ignored Officer Sandoval’s emergency lights to stop him, while led him on a pursuit. With Gonzalez traveling at high speeds, he hit a dip at Eton Drive and Minona Drive, causing him to airborne. Once the vehicle landed, the tires blew out and caused him to lose control and crash into a tree.

Although Gonzalez was injured, he still attempted to evade on foot. Officer Sandoval caught up to Gonzalez and took him into custody.

Gonzalez was transported to Loma Linda University Medical Center by ambulance for medical attention.

With further investigation, the vehicle Gonzalez was driving was an un-reported stolen vehicle outside of the City of Riverside. The vehicle was totaled from the crash.

The criminal case was submitted to the District Attorney’s Office because of the injuries for felony evading, driving while intoxicated, hit and run, and vehicle theft.

U.S. Black Belt Center

By Racine Guajardo 

U.S. Black Belt Center is located at 20781 Amar Rd. Suite 7, Walnut, CA 91789. Cross streets are Amar and Grand Ave, next to Verizon. You can also visit their website at www.BBCblackbelt.com or call them at 1-888-763-0222.

U.S. Black Belt Center is located at 20781 Amar Rd. Suite 7, Walnut, CA 91789. Cross streets are Amar and Grand Ave, next to Verizon. You can also visit their website at http://www.BBCblackbelt.com or call them at 1-888-763-0222.

Walnut – “The average person does not earn a black belt. We take the average person and allow them to discover that they are way more than average!”

At U.S. Black Belt Center you can be assured that all students will learn.

The martial arts have become a leader in bringing families together in an era when individual family members seem to be doing their own thing. Martial arts offers you an opportunity to share the benefits of training with those you love, while developing important quality-time together. And although you work towards your Black Belt together, each member of the family will also discover a valuable personal benefit from his or her training.

For children, following instructions will become second nature. This is a huge plus for any child who has ever taken martial arts, as well as for the parents! If your child has trouble following instructions, this alone is reason enough to give the program a try.  A sense of respect will be instilled in your child. Although martial art is a contact sport, respect is ALWAYS the most important principle enforced. Your child will develop a love for self-respect followed by a desire to respect others – EVEN when this respect is not reciprocated. The desire to succeed will manifest itself. For loving parents like you, being able to see your children do well in life is truly the greatest reward that you can hope for.

Unfortunately, many kids today not only lack the desire to succeed, but also the self-confidence and belief that they can accomplish anything they set out to do. No parent wants to see their child have a low self-esteem at such an early age.

The great thing about this martial arts program is that it’s not only designed to teach your child how to defend themselves – it also boosts confidence and self-esteem.

Success in martial arts does not require athletic skills. However, through your training, you will develop key characteristics to enhance your athletic skills for other sports of interests. Benefits such as better hand/eye coordination, endurance, and physical fitness can help you improve in any sport.

And even more importantly, U.S. Black Belt Center programs are good for all ages, genders, fitness levels and abilities.

During the summer, students and their families have the opportunity to travel to Asia. The package includes meals, tour, transportation, hotel and Taekwondo activities.

To get further information or where to register you may call 1-888-763-0222, visit in person at 20781 Amar Rd. Suite 7 Walnut, CA 91789. Cross streets are Amar and Grand Ave, next to Verizon. You can also visit their website at www.BBCblackbelt.com.

Straight Talk With Danice

A Letter from Chrissy

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Q:  What is your opinion about people who are always late?  Why do you think some people have no respect for time management?

A:  In my opinion, I think personal power plays a role here.  People who are habitually late generally don’t have a good sense of their own personal power.  They are often passive-aggressive, imagining that they have power over others by keeping them waiting.  Of course, some people are just poor managers of their time, but I think the personal power thing comes into play more often.  They are misguided in thinking that their time is more valuable than yours.  Let’s not forget the people who are basically clueless and have poor manners.

Three Arrested For Loaded Firearm

Staff ReportsArrest-WEB

Chino Hills– On Saturday June 11, three male subjects were arrested on the cross streets of Beverly Avenue and Phillips Street in Ontario by Chino Hills Police/Sheriff’s Department for a routine traffic stop.

The vehicle was driven by Oscar Dimas, 19-year-old resident of Rancho Cucamonga. He was accompanied by Victor Nava, 19-year-old resident and Marcos Velazco Gonzalez, 19-year-old resident of Ontario.

Once the vehicle was searched, cocaine and items indicating the sales of illegal drugs were located. Deputies also found a loaded hand gun in the vehicle.

The three suspects were arrested for selling illegal narcotics and possession of dangerous weapons and booked in West Valley Detention Center.

Top Quality Auto Body Repair and Towing

By J.D. Alberts 

Walnut – For over 25 years, California Coach Auto Collision has served its community with top notch repair and assistance services, reaching from “Diamond Bar to Chino and beyond.”

Under original ownership, California Coach takes great pride in their quality service reputation and understands the importance of automotive safety. Their highly trained, certified mechanical technicians take great care of every vehicle they service.  And with a 16,000 square foot “state of the art” collision repair shop and one acre adjacent storage space, California Coach is well-equipped to take care of all of your auto collision needs, including:

  • Estimating
  • Complete Auto Repair, Auto Body and Paint
  • Frame, Unibody and Metal Repair/Replacement
  • General Repair
  • Refinishing
  • 24-Hour Emergency Roadside Assistance
  • Towing (Light, Medium and Heavy Duty, and Recovery)
  • AAA Battery Service Program
  • Battery Jumps
  • Tire Changes, and much more!

California Coach has earned a reputation for courteous service, high standards, and extremely high customer satisfaction ratings since they opened in 1998.  Most new customers are a result of referrals by happy customers, and this is a standing they don’t take for granted.  They understand the stress associated with an accident or tow, and their goal is to take care of your car and reduce your frustration.  They will work hard to restore your car to its original condition and keep you updated throughout the process; and all insurance claims are welcome.

In partnership with Mercury Insurance Group and Diamond Honda of Puente Hills (as an approved repair facility), California Coach is also ASE certified, and a AAA Roadside Assistance Provider and Patrol.  They are also members of the California Auto Body Association, the California Tow Truck association, and the Walnut Sheriff’s Booster Club.

California Coach Auto Collision is located at 22064 Valley Blvd. in Walnut. Body Shop hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 12 noon. You can reach them at (909) 595-9448, or (909) 595-6970 for their 24-hour towing service. For more information visit their website at http://www.calcoachautobodytowing.com, or send them an email at info@CalCoachAutoBodyTowing.com.

 

 

And see their ad on page 8 of this publication.

7 WVUSD Schools Selected for California Honor Roll

Leaders in Student Achievement 

Suzanne Middle School 6th graders score a great time during field day with teacher Lauri Ujita

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Suzanne Middle School 6th graders score a great time during field day with teacher Lauri Ujita

By Kelli Gile 

Walnut – Seven Walnut Valley USD schools have been named to the 2015 CBEE California Honor Roll for consistently demonstrating high levels of student academic achievement.

Scholar schools are Evergreen Elementary, Quail Summit Elementary, Chaparral Middle School, South Pointe Middle School, Suzanne Middle School, Diamond Bar High School, and Walnut High School.

The program is sponsored by the Campaign for Business and Education Excellence (CBEE) and Educational Results Partnership (ERP).

After an extensive analysis of every school in the state, Honor Roll schools are identified as clear leaders in getting students to grade level and beyond.

This year, the California Honor Roll recognized 1,714 high-performing public schools who are successfully preparing students for college and careers.

Congratulations to our dedicated principals, teachers, and staff members who work tirelessly to help Walnut Valley students achieve such success!

 

Thoughts on Your Last Day

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

Imagine for just a couple of minutes this was your last day here on earth.  You’re not in any pain and you are just recalling the events of your life.  Are you feeling content about the way you lived or are you filled with regret?

I’m not trying to be morbid in anyway; I’m just trying to get you to think about how you’re living your life.  Do you seem to spend most of your days worrying about things you have no control over?  Do you find yourself constantly holding grudges when people make you angry?  Do you waste much of your time proving you are right?  Are you living in the past and use it as an excuse for not being able to move forward?

Take a moment and think about what it is that you want your life to represent.  For me, I need to have love, peace and a sense of purpose in my life.  I need to know that I make a difference.  I need not only to love and be loved, but also to be really connected to those I love.  I need to have peace in my mind, heart, and soul and this comes with keeping things cleaned up in my life.  I don’t like when I’m not on good terms from my loved ones and need to clean things up quickly.

I want to be able to look back at my life with no regrets and have a sense of peace, knowing I lived life as the person I was intended to be.  I need to believe that I did everything I could to be my best and to be the best person I could here in this world.  Those are the thoughts I want running through me my last day here and every day until then!

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)229-072.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net.  You may purchase Nancy’s books Midnight the Therapy Dog and Live Heal and Grow at Amazon.com.

 

 

Two Arrested For Vehicle Burglary

Staff Reports

Chino Hills- On Monday June 13, the Chino Hills Police Station responded to a call regarding two subjects breaking into a victim’s vehicle.

Both subjects were positively identified by the victim: Jared Alexander Seebold, 24 year-old resident of Chino Hills and Brenda Aguirre, 24 year-old resident of Fontana.

In the investigation, the two had been linked to several residential and vehicle burglaries in the City of Chino Hills. A search warrant was issued at Seebold’s residence in which items believed to be stolen such as multiple power tools, car stereo equipment, golf clubs, and electronics.

Seebold and Aguirre were both booked for Burglary and Conspiracy at West Valley Detention Center.

Anyone with information or wishes to identify property that had been recovered is urged to contact the Chino Hills Police Station at (909) 364-2000. To report information anonymously, you may call We-Tip at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463).

History 101

“Frankly, My Dear…”

History.com

On June 27 in 1939, one of the most famous scenes in movie history is filmed–Rhett Butler and Scarlett O’Hara parting in Gone with the Wind. Director Victor Fleming also shot the scene using the alternate line, “Frankly, my dear, I just don’t care,” in case the film censors objected to the word “damn.” The censors approved the movie but fined producer David O. Selznick $5,000 for including the curse.

The filming of the famous film was itself an epic, with two and half years elapsing between Selznick’s purchase of the rights to Margaret Mitchell’s novel and the movie’s debut in Atlanta in December 1939. Selznick had balked at paying an unprecedented $50,000 for the rights to a first novel, but Mitchell stuck to her asking price and Selznick agreed in July 1937. He hired director George Cukor immediately, and casting began in the fall. Selznick launched a nationwide talent search, hoping to find a new actress to play Scarlett. Meanwhile, he set writers to work on the script.

A year later, Selznick still hadn’t found an actress or received a satisfactory script. In May 1938, running low on funds, Selznick struck a deal with MGM. He sold the worldwide distribution rights for the film to the studio for $1.5 million, and MGM agreed to lend Clark Gable to Selznick.

Filming finally began on December 10, 1938, with the burning of Atlanta scene, although Scarlett still hadn’t been cast. British actress Vivien Leigh, newly arrived from London, dropped by the set to visit her agent, Myron Selznick, brother of the producer. David O. Selznick asked her to test for Scarlett. In January, Leigh signed on as Scarlett and Leslie Howard as Ashley Wilkes, and at last, principal filming began. By February, however, there was trouble on the set. Gable clashed with the director, and by February 14, Victor Fleming replaced George Cukor. Principal filming ended on June 27, 1939.

The film debuted in Atlanta on December 15, 1939, and became an instant hit, breaking all box office records. The film was nominated for more than a dozen Oscars, and won nine, including Best Picture, Best Screenplay, Best Actress, and Best Supporting Actress (which went to Hattie McDaniel, the first African American actress to win the award). The movie was digitally restored and the sound re-mastered for its 1998 re-release by New Line Pictures.

Witmer Appointed WVUSD Deputy Superintendent of Human Resources

By Kelli Gile  

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Dr. Matthew Witmer was appointed Deputy Superintendent in the Walnut Valley Unified School District on June 1.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Dr. Matthew Witmer was appointed Deputy Superintendent in the Walnut Valley Unified School District on June 1.

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) Board of Trustees approved the appointment of Matthew Witmer, Ed.D. as Deputy Superintendent of Human Resources, a key administrative position in the District, during the June 1 meeting.

Witmer has served as Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services since March 2014.

“I firmly believe that Matt’s leadership style, skills, and relationships across our District make him a strong fit for the needs and requirements in leading the Human Resources division,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

“Additionally, the role of Deputy Superintendent will allow him to provide support and leadership across all areas of our school district.”

“This position is critical as we develop and execute an effective strategic plan for the future of the school district. This position provides better support for our District and students.”

The veteran educator brings 20 years of educational experience to his new post.

“It’s been an honor and pleasure to serve the Walnut Valley community through Educational Services the last few years,” said Witmer who looks forward to the transition to Human Resources and serving as Deputy Superintendent.

“This will allow me to contribute to our District team in a different capacity.”

Witmer’s background and experience show a focus on equity and access in serving all stakeholders with integrity, honesty, and transparency.

He launched the innovative “MiniUniversity” professional development plan for Walnut Valley’s 1,200+ staff members three years ago.

His previous administrative experience in the Garden Grove Unified School District includes working with the Merit System and Personnel Commission.

Under his leadership, as Director of 7-12 Instruction, Garden Grove USD was named winner of the 2004 Broad Prize for Urban Education.

Witmer served as an administrator in Corona-Norco Unified School District where he oversaw all areas of the Educational Services division in the 53,000-student district.

He also completed the ACSA Personnel Academy with retired WVUSD Assistant Superintendent Ray McMullen.

Additionally, Witmer is an adjunct professor of Educational Leadership at the University of California Irvine Extension and Azusa Pacific University.  Prior to that, he worked in numerous roles as an associate professor, director, interim program director, principal, assistant principal, and teacher.

He received a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University.

Witmer’s transition to Human Resources fills a vacancy in the department.

 

A Living Legacy

mark-hopper-color-2x2By Pastor Mark Hopper

Gordon MacDonald started a new church in Tucson, Arizona in the early 1960’s. Although he worked full-time at the Hughes Aircraft Company, he also worked part-time as a pastor.  He and his family launched a new church in the garage of their home on the southwest side of Tucson.

Gordon had a shepherd’s heart and a love for Christ.  He had a warm smile and bubbled with enthusiasm.  He saw that this new community needed a church and he set out to meet that need.

Gordon and his wife and their children passed out invitations in their neighborhoods. They also mailed postcards to several hundred homes.  A handful of people came.  Gradually the group grew and a church blossomed into existence.  They called it Chapel In The Hills.

When they outgrew the garage, they began to meet at the local elementary school.  As the church grew, they purchased a piece of property and constructed a small church building.

Unfortunately, Hughes Aircraft lost a big government contract and a number of employees lost their jobs.  Gordon was able to find a new job with Texas Instruments and moved his family to Dallas.

Chapel in the Hills had several other pastors during the next few years.  Pastor Gail Bender served in a part-time role for several years hoping they would find a younger pastor to come and lead the church.

I graduated from Dallas Theolgical Seminary in 1975 and I was looking for a church to pastor.  About the same time, Chapel in the Hills in Tucson was looking for a new pastor!

Gordan contacted the Seminary placement office and was given the names of several prospective candidates including mine.

On a hot summer day in 1975, Gordan came to our little apartment in Dallas and asked if I would consider coming to Tucson to serve as the first full-time pastor of Chapel in the Hills.

After visiting the church and meeting the people, we agreed to come and serve there.  That began a 13 year journey for our family.  Three of our four children were born in Tucson.  We made many friends and loved serving at Chapel in the Hills.

The church that Gordan started continued to grow.  In the 1980’s we constructed two additional buildings and remodeled the original one.  Attendance increased and a preschool was launched at the church.

When the church celebrated its 40th anniversary, Gordan was invited to come back to see the church he started.  He expressed his thanks to God and to everyone who was attending the church.  He gave all of the credit to God and he was thankful to have been part of this amazing adventure.

Recently, we learned that Gordan had died.  He was in his 90’s.  His faith in Christ and love for people had never faded.  Although his earthly life was over, the church that he started is alive and well.

The Apostle Paul wrote about his own life in II Timothy 4:7, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith”. These words could describe Gordan MacDonald as well.  Gordan’s faith and vision still impact people today through the church he started over 50 years ago.

Have you thought about the legacy that you will leave behind when you die?  What lives have you touched?  Where have you invested your time and energy?  Will generations express their thanks for the things you have done?

I am thankful for a man named Gordan MacDonald and what he started over 50 years ago.  His legacy lives on.

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.  Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.  For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit Efreedb.org.

Diamond Bar Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Diamond Bar – The June 7 Diamond Bar Council meeting began with a bittersweet moment of recognition. The Council presented a City Tile to Isaac Aziz upon his resignation to become the IT Manager for the City of Aliso Viejo. After thanking Aziz for his years of service to the City they wished him luck on his new venture.

Following the public comments, the schedule of future events was read, including the following:

– Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting, June 9 at 7 p.m

– Planning Commission meeting, June 14 at 7 p.m.

– Premier Concert in the Park, June 15, featuring The Answer at Sycamore Canyon Park

– Premier Movie Under the Stars, June 15, featuring The Minions Movie which immediately followed the concert

– The next City Council meeting to be held June 21 at 6:30 p.m.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, which included the following:

– City Council minutes of the study session of May 17 and the regular meeting of May 17

– Traffic and Transportation Commission minutes of the regular meetings of January 14, March 10, and April 14

– Parks and Recreation Commission minutes of the regular meeting of April 28

– Planning Commission minutes of the regular meetings of March 8 and April 26

– Ratification of a check register totalling $1,565,222.41

– Treasurer’s Statement for the month of April

– Supplemental appropriations of $300,727 into the fiscal year 2015-16 building fees revenue accounts, and $118,000 into the fiscal year 2015-16 building and safety contract services expenditure account to fund the payment of RKA Consulting Services invoices

– An amendment to the agreement with Tennis Anyone to extend the contract period to July 1, 2015 through June 30, 2017 in the amount of $70,000

– Award of a contract to Hilton Farnkopf & Hobson, LLC for as needed solid waste and recycling consulting services

– Award of a contract to Accela, Inc. for legislative management software services and authorize the City Manager to execute future contract renewals

– Approval of an amendment to the contract with ValleyCrest Landscape Maintenance to extend the term of the contract from July 1, 2016 through Sept 30, 2016 to provide landscape maintenance services at 9 City parks, the grounds of the Diamond Bar Center, the football field and slope at Lorbeer Middle School, and the Mesa Trail at Sycamore Canyon Park, and to accept the change of the company’s name to Brightview Landscape Services, Inc.

The Council also adopted a resolution approving and adopting a budget for the fiscal year commencing July 1, 2016 and ending June 30, 2017 including maintenance and operations, special funds and capital improvements and appropriating funds for accounts, departments, divisions, objects and purposes therein set forth.

After individual reports and comments, the Council adjourned to June 21, at 6:30 p.m. at 21865 Copley Dr.

Collegewood: Reducing Trash 90% Wins $1000

Inspiring students to care for the environment

By Kelli Gile  

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile Collegewood Elementary is a grand prize winner in the Grades of Green trash-free lunch challenge.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Collegewood Elementary is a grand prize winner in the Grades of Green trash-free lunch challenge.

Walnut—This year, Collegewood Elementary decided to go green! Students, staff, and parents worked hard to implement a Grades of Green recycling program, and at the same time compete for a cash award.

Twenty-two Los Angeles County schools joined the environmental non-profit’s 2015-16 Trash Free Lunch Challenge.

The quest focused on encouraging kids to bring reusable water bottles, lunch containers, and napkins to school, and to sort any waste they may have into recycle, compost, landfill, liquids, and tray stacking bins.

By the end of the year, Collegewood decreased lunchtime waste by an average of 95% and was named a $1,000 grand prize winner!

The school rolled out the “green” carpet to celebrate during a May 6 spirit day assembly.

“We used to send 20 bags to the landfill everyday. Because of all your hard work, we have reduced our trash to 1-3 bags a day,” Principal Joan Perez said. “I’m so proud of our team effort and most importantly – our kids!”

Students were eager to pitch in to help increase recycling on campus.

“I learned to make more green choices,” said 3rd grader Advika Ganapathy who also taught her family to recycle bags.

Six different youngsters helped sort recyclables each day at lunch.

“A lot of kids really wanted to help!” said 5th grader Monica Mossmosen about volunteers who didn’t mind giving up recess to be a part of the green effort.

One day, when custodian David Morales had to leave early, the children stepped up and ran the stations by themselves.

“This became much more than a trash-free lunch challenge,” commented parent Leslie Lopez. “Our students learned things that are life skills. They are becoming ambassadors of trash!”

In addition, the school’s Green Team was successful in banning Styrofoam trays from Walnut Valley schools and creating the first-ever battery recycling center in Walnut.

“A group of kids came into my office and talked to me about Styrofoam,” said Mike Hodson, assistant superintendent of business services. “They convinced me right there on the spot!”

“Collegewood students truly care about the Earth and making sure we have a clean and healthy place to live,” said Anjuli Koentopp, Grades of Green program manager who pointed out that the school had reduced its trash by about 3,000 bags or 30 tons.

“That’s the size of 10 elephants!”

“It makes me proud to help Collegewood be more earth friendly,” said 2nd grader Connor Salazar.