Category Archives: Weekly News Top Stories

LaVar Ball pulls LiAngelo from UCLA

By Anthony Saude

 

LaVar Ball is back in the headlines again this week. LaVar has confirmed that will be removing his son LiAngelo from UCLA because he believes the “suspension was unfair” since the “charges were dropped” according to a report by ESPN.

LiAngelo hasn’t officially left the school but it has been reported that he is at his home in Chino Hills and doesn’t plan on returning to the school when the suspension is lifted. ESPN reported that LaVar said “We are exploring other options with Gelo,” “He is out of there.”

LiAngelo has missed eight of the Bruins games since the indefinite suspension was imposed. However, if LiAngelo had intended to play college basketball for a different university, he still would not be eligible to play for any NCAA Division 1 school this year. He might be able to get on to a lower level program like an NAIA school but it doesn’t seem that is something the family will explore. He also has the option to try his hand in the NBA G-League or go overseas to continue his basketball career.

Reports say that UCLA coach Steve Alford confirmed that LiAngelo won’t be coming back to the school when the suspension is lifted and respects the family’s decision. Everybody should wish LiAngelo the best of luck. ESPN also reported that LaVar said “I am going to make LiAngelo way better for the draft then UCLA ever could have.”

LaVar Ball told ESPN that LiAngelo and youngest brother, LaMelo, have both signed on with the same agent representing the eldest Ball brother an Lakers Rookie, Lonzo. Ball has confirmed that the plan is now to have his two youngest sons play on the same overseas team. Last week LaVar said “I don’t care about the money.  I want them to go somewhere where they will play them together on the court at the same time. The priority is for the boys to play on the same team.”

People make mistakes and this shouldn’t be the end of the line for this young man. Everybody deserves a second chance and you people do dumb things all the time. LiAngelo will be heard from again on the basketball court based on his talent is the hope for this young man.

LiAngelo was suspended along with teammates Cody Riley and Jalen Hill for shoplifting during a team trip to China.

 

Burglary, Vandalism at Pomona H.S,

By Anthony Saude

Pomona – On Monday December 4 at approximately 9:30 p.m. the Pomona Unified School district security office were monitoring 3 young me via surveillance camera inside the main office at Pomona High School. They called the Pomona Police Department to advise them about the break in and the suspects were still on sight.

The suspects broke into the office and it appeared they were removing items as well as destroying school property. When the officers arrived the suspects were still on the scene when they noticed the officers took off running. The officers took off after them on foot, the pursuit didn’t last long and all 3 suspects were apprehended and taken into custody.

Isiah Gonzalez 18 years old and two male juveniles 16 and 17 years old were taken into custody after they had allegedly damaged several computers, desks and other fixtures The entire area had also been tagged. They were booked for burglary and felony vandalism at the Pomona Police Station.

None of the suspects were students at Pomona High School.

If you have any information in reference to the incident please contact:

Pomona Police Department at (909) 622-1241

If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), use your smartphone by downloading the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP on Google play or the Apple App Store or by using the website: http://lacrimestoppers.org

Christmas Tree Prices are Up

By Anthony Saude

The price of Christmas trees is higher this year due to the recession of 2008. Some Oregon tree farmers simply couldn’t afford to plant trees during the recession and the effects are still being felt. That doesn’t mean that the demand for trees in Chino Valley is down. It takes about 6-7 years to for a Douglas fir to grow and about 10 years for a Noble fir to get to a height to about 7-8 feet.

The shortage was largely unanticipated by both the growers and the sellers, not to mention the buyers. You may have some sticker shock when you are shopping for your tree this year. A five foot tree is selling for about $45 this year and on the whole smaller trees are what are available. Some of that has to do with the amount of money it costs to rent the lots that the sellers need to sell their trees. A lot in Chino Hills is about 3 times more expensive to rent than the same size lot in the city of Ventura. Unfortunately that cost has to be passed down to the buyer.

Smaller lots can’t compete, price wise with some of the big box lots but the trees will get watered more often so they will be fresher when you pick them up. Supply will catch up with demand at some point but for the next few years it looks like the price of Christmas trees will be going up until that happens.

The Chino Hills Christmas Tree Company has been selling trees at the Chino Fairgrounds for the last 10 years and is a staple of the community. Their prices have pretty much stayed the same as they were last year starting at $20 for a table top sized tree and going up to several hundred dollars.

The trees are “selling like crazy” said one tree lot owner even though the prices are up. There is a nursery in Chino Hills, Moon Nursery that sells Christmas as well and their selection is good. If you want to cut your own tree down you will have to travel a little to do so but it might save you some money.

All the lots in Chino Valley offer full service for you if you want to have your tree flocked, need a tree stand with or without water, all at an extra fee of course. They take credit cards and will wrap your tree and help you strap it to your car if you need. A lot of the workers that are employed at these lots are making minimum wage or are the seller themselves so make sure you tip them for their service.

The smell of the holidays is in the air and it smells like pine.

In the city of Chino Hills 

Winter Springs Christmas Trees is at 3295 Grand Ave., at the corner of Grand and Peyton avenues in the Albertson’s shopping center.

Hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. daily.

Information, 503-339-5410.

They have a Facebook page called Chino Hills Christmas Trees.

Updated Info On Olympic Trials In Walnut

Staff Reports

The Walnut City Council will be having a council meeting on Wednesday, December 13 at 7 p.m.  The question many are asking is: “Will the Olympic trials be on the agenda for open discussion this time?”

Earlier this year, Mt. San Antonio College (SAC) won the bid to have the Track and Field Olympic Trials at the campus. Whether or not they are able to get the school ready for the trials is still up in the air at this time. A stadium still needs to be built and the deadline to build in time for the trials is quickly approaching. It has been reported that the City of Walnut may not be in favor of the trials being held in their city. The reasons to date have been unclear and it has not been open for discussion as to why it hasn’t been on the agenda at past City Council meetings. Rumors are that it mostly likely won’t be approved by the council, which could cost Walnut and the cities in the surrounding areas an estimated $40 million dollars. That number is conservatively based on what Oregon claims they will lose because they didn’t win the bid.

The lack of information that has been released on the subject led to a misunderstanding that a final vote would take place at the Council Meeting on December 13. We were informed that there will not be a final vote and at this time, it is unclear if an open forum discussion will even be on the agenda. We also recently received information that the city may be seeking an injunction to stop construction of the stadium, which is needed to support the trials. It seems as though driving a truck loaded with dirt on a Walnut city street has been deemed unsafe and permits have not been issued to do so at this time.

Reports indicate that the entire estimated amount of $40 million in revenue won’t be given solely to the City of Walnut. It leaves us to wonder if that played into the decision to stall the construction until the point of no return? That is a question that we hope will be addressed at a city council meeting at some point. The estimated $40 million in revenue could benefit Walnut and the surrounding communities since Walnut doesn’t have hotels in the city. But unfortunately, the surrounding communities are not involved in the decision process.

So local business owners, sports fans and anyone that supports the building of the Mt. SAC stadium, mark December 13 at 7pm on your calendars so you can attend the City Council Meeting.  If the city does decide to have an open discussion about the project, let your voice be heard.

 

 

Walnut Valley Trustees Celebrate Star Students, Community Partners

By Kelli Gile

 WALNUT– In keeping with tradition, the Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees honored outstanding students and community partners during the November 15 meeting.

C.J. Morris Elementary fourth graders Kailyn Park and Nyla Rivera authored “Everyone Has A Right”, a friendship book they wrote to raise awareness about students with special needs.

The caring students were commended with the Super Star Student Award.

Kailyn and Nyla spend time at recess getting to know students in the Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) class.  They model how to care about others and value differences.

Their advocacy work has created a more inclusive environment on campus. To date, they have donated nearly $200 to the ASD class from the book’s proceeds.

“They truly embody what it means to be I.B. students by showing that they not only care, but dare to act to make a difference,” said Principal Shehzad Bhojani.

Longtime parent volunteer Sheila Wright received the Partner in Education Award.

Sheila has been president of the C.J. Morris Community Club for the past four years.  Under her leadership, fundraising efforts, parental involvement and school spirt have steadily increased.

“She embraces an inclusive philosophy to address the needs of our culturally, ethnically and socio-economically diverse parent community,” Bhojani said.

Sheila has strong interpersonal skills and utilizes multiple platforms to communicate with the parent community.  She is a good listener who validates the ideas brought up by her team, and is open to suggestions in improving the effectiveness of the programs that are offered.

“Sheila is fully committed to improving the educational experience of our C.J. Morris students,” he added.

Parent volunteer Tom Jordan received the Partner in Education Award for South Pointe Middle School.

For the past three years, Tom has been an active member of the school’s Community Club and currently serves as president. He is also a School Site Council and District LCAP Committee representative.

If Tom isn’t providing the parent voice at a meeting, he is selling snacks at home games and performances, or organizing fundraisers.

“His innovation, enthusiasm, and infectious positive energy inspire parents, teachers, and students alike,” said Principal Susan Arzola.

South Pointe 8th grader Yssael Gutierrez, a.k.a. Ironman, was unanimously voted by staff, out of over 900 candidates, to receive the Super Star Student Award.

“He has inspired all of us to embrace life’s challenges and tackle them head on,” Arzola said.

Last year was probably the toughest of this young man’s life and yet he was able to overcome a huge challenge, she said.

“Yssael came back this year with a strong, positive “can do” attitude. We know nothing can hold him back!”

He is proud to be a Panther and cheers on his peers every chance he gets.  He puts his whole heart into all that he does from fundraisers to athletics.

“Yssael exemplifies the strength of character and community we can all only aspire to,” Arzola added.

Additionally, the Walnut High School boys baseball and girls swim teams received special recognition for reaching the highest level of success as Division 3 CIF Champions.

 

$8,000 In Stolen Cash and Coins

By Anthony Saude

Chino Hills – Deputy Livi was patrolling his area like any other night when he noticed a car with Utah plates parked on Riverside Drive and E. End Avenue that at around 1:30 a.m., ther were two men sleeping in it, said Sgt. Randy Naquin of the Chino Hills Sheriff’s station.

Deputy Livi requested backup, when it arrived the deputies identified the two sleeping men as Utah residents, Christopher Giles, 46 and 39-year old Kris Vanleuven. The deputies searched the vehicle after they received consent from the men. During the search they found the men to be in possession of Methamphetamine and Heroin, said Sgt. Naquin.

Continuing the search the deputies found over $8,000 in stolen cash, gold coins, possible burglary tools and a slungshot. A slungshot is a maritime tool with a weight, or “shot”, affixed to the end of a long cord or rope that is used to assist in throwing mooring lines over a distance. According to California Penal Code section 12020 it is a felony be in possession of one. There are several other states that it is a felony to have one as well.

Both Giles and Vanleuven were arrested and booked into West Valley Detention Center on suspicion of  possession of a controlled substance with the intent to sell and for possession of a slungshot.

Sgt. Noquin said that they have contacted outside agencies to determine if any reported burglaries might similar stolen property that could be claimed. Detectives are still investigating the case. If anyone has any information about the case you are encouraged to call the Chino Hills station at 909-364-2000

 

Porch Pirates Beware

Photo courtesy: Google

By Anthony Saude

Chino – Chino Police Department is proactively fighting package theft in the city this holiday season with a little help from their friends.

“The Chino Police Department has partnered with several members of the community to deploy decoy packages with GPS tracking abilities in an effort to deter crime and aide in stolen package investigations,” says Tamrin Olden of the Crime Prevention Department. “We have done this on a much smaller scale in the past, targeting an area or neighborhood that had multiple reports of theft”. “Due to the season we are trying it out on a much larger scale this time”, said Olden.

“Olden said that the cost to the Department and the community is almost negligible due to the fact we use the GPS devices for other investigations all the time”. “Olden added that they also have boxes that are used for multiple purposes so there isn’t any cost there”. “We have a software license that allows us to print and use popular company names labels without any repercussions”.

The residents and this newspaper have parts to play in this wonderful idea as well, the more people we tell about this program the more criminals will be deterred from committing the crime at all. That means that more people will get their packages without incident. If the companies we shop with don’t have to replace merchandise at their expense it ultimately helps them keep their prices down for the consumer.

“Although some are crimes of opportunity some packages will lead us to other crimes, someone with warrants, teams of people, drugs or just career criminals into multiple things” says Olden. This is a win, win situation for everybody, except of course the people stealing packages. Please report any suspicious activity to the Chino Police Department 909-334-3000.

 

 

 

Auto Accident Leaves 1 Dead, 5 Injured

Photo courtesy: Google Images

By Anthony Saude

Diamond Bar – A violent auto accident on the 60 freeway left one dead and 5 injured on Sunday, November 26. The accident took place at about 3 a.m. in the eastbound lanes of the 60 freeway in Diamond Bar where the 57 and the 60 freeway intersect.

A 2001 Chevy Impala had been involved in a minor traffic accident that took place in the carpool lane and left the Impala disabled just prior to the fatal crash. The Impala was being driven by 30 year old Melissa Murga from Pomona. She had 3 passengers on board a 29 year old male, also from Pomona, a baby and a little girl.

The Pomona man had unbuckled his and the baby’s seatbelt to exit the vehicle after the Impala had disabled when they were struck by a 2013 Chevy Pickup truck that was driving at an unsafe speed. The man and the baby – 1 year old Anna Franco, were ejected from the car and the 29 year old Pomona man was pronounced dead at the scene by paramedics. Melissa and Anna sustained serious injuries and the child escaped the nightmare with only minor injuries. It was reported that Anna is in critical condition at the hospital.

The driver of the pickup, John Swick a 32 year old Hesperia man, had Ashley Stevens also from Hesperia, a 31 year old female with him as a passenger. It was reported by CHP in a written statement that Swick had been driving at an unsafe speed when the truck rammed into the rear of the Impala.

Swick sustained only minor injuries while his passenger, Stevens sustained major injuries and was transprorted to a local hospital via ambulance. All of the injured parties were transported to a local hospital to treat the injuries they had sustained. Swick was arrested at the scene and there is an ongoing investigation into the cause of the accident. Nothing has been reported about if alcohol was involved in either of the accidents at this time.

The Carpenter

Courtesy: Google Images

By Michael Armijo

 

I received an email the other day that reminded me to continue to work hard and to be proud of what I’ve done. It encouraged me to continue to keep my heart within my work, as you never know what life will bring you. I’d like to share it with the many readers we have, so here it is:

The Carpenter

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

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

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

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

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

You are the carpenter. Each day you hammer a nail, place a board, or erect a wall. “Life is a do-it-yourself project,” someone has said. Your attitudes and the choices you make today, build the “house” you live in tomorrow. Build wisely!

Remember…

Work like you don’t need the money. Love like you’ve never been hurt. Dance like no one is watching. Enjoy life like it’s your last day on Earth.

Mt. Sac Olympic Trials: $40 Million For Local Communities

Photo courtesy: Google Images

By Staff Reports

Walnut – On December 13, 2017 there will be a Walnut City Council meeting and it seems that a discussion about Olympic Trials at Mt. Sac will finally be on the agenda. “We are starting to move the dirt for the construction needed to have the trials because if we don’t start we will have to tell the powers that be we can’t have the trials,” said Doug Todd.” “We are going to begin and move forward with the confidence that the Council will vote for the Trials or until we get a stop work order from them”.

Mt. San Antonio College’s new incoming stadium was chosen for the 2020 U.S. Olympic Track and Field Trials, a move that could potentially bring in over $40 million in revenue for the area.

“The Olympic Trials in Eugene Oregon has historically brought in around $38 million dollars to their local economy for the 9 day period that the trials were held during 2012,” said Doug Todd, Director of Track and Cross Country for Mt. Sac. “We haven’t seen the projections for 2016 as of yet, but it should top over $40 million.”

Todd also noted that the national and international attention this event will bring to the city of Walnut and immediate surrounding cities, the San Gabriel Valley, the Inland Empire, and even the Los Angeles cities will benefit as well. “We hope for everyone to get on board and benefit from such a historic event.”

“As a long time resident of the City of Walnut, I was pleased to hear that Walnut will be hosting the upcoming US Olympic Trials,” said Walnut councilman Bob Pacheco. “It’s a honor and privilege to be selected. I look forward to working with Mt SAC to assure that the athletes receive a warm welcome so they may enjoy the beauty and resources of our community.

“We honored to be chosen over such prestigious institutions,” said Mt. Sac Board Member, David Hall in a phone interview Thursday morning. “Our long heritage, very successful trials in past years, the many records set at the college, and the new state of the art facility, are great factors for their choice.”

The USA Olympic Trials is the National Championship meet that is held every year, but in an Olympic Year, the National Championships become the meet where the US Olympic Committee chooses who will represent the United States in the Olympic Games in Tokyo.  It’s a wonderful, high stakes competition where the top three make the team and number 4 and below do not.  There is no appeal process, no automatic entry process for past performances, and no special dispensation for injury or illness.  On a certain day and a certain time in June of 2020 right here at Mt. SAC the best athletes in the country will run, jump or throw for the right to represent us in Tokyo, Japan.  It’s a real testimony to competition bringing out the best and, sadly, sometimes the worst in people.

The selection process wasn’t an easy one either. It started with the submission of a preliminary proposal.  Five colleges or Organizations did that.  After the initial submission the field was narrowed to three “finalists”.  Mt. SAC, along with the University of Oregon and California State University, Sacramento were each scheduled for a site visit and after the site visit had the opportunity to submit a final proposal. The final step was the opportunity to state our case at USATF’s Board of Directors meeting in Sacramento at this year’s National Championships.

“We were given 15 minutes to summarize our proposal and then to be ready for questions from the board,” added Todd. “Before that final presentation we were sent a list of things from our proposal that the board wanted clarification on.  We needed to discuss those items within our 15 minute presentation.”

Mt. Sac’s Hilmer Lodge Stadium is no stranger to such an event as the women’s Olympic trials were held there in 1968. Twenty world records have been set at Hilmer Lodge Stadium, the annual site for the annual Mt. Sac Relays for the last 60 years. The stadium is under renovations and is scheduled to reopen in 2019 with an expanded seating capacity of 21,000 capacity. The trials, scheduled for Jun 19-28, 2020, will select US track and field delegation for the Tokyo Games.

“I’m very proud of the team that helped bring this to fruition, and excited by the challenge” said Todd to OurWeeklyNews.com. “We are excited by the challenge and anxious to finalize the last few details for the organization to get the planning started.” Todd is the “meet manager” and Bob Seagrem, a former Olympic Gold Medalist, will be the chairperson of the committee.

The last three U.S. Olympic track and field trials were held at Hayward Stadium in Eugene, Ore., the city known as Track Town for its pervasive running culture. The 2000 and 2004 trials were held at Hornet Stadium in Sacramento. Attendance was robust in both cities and both made bids for the 2020 trials. Los Angeles, once the home of many professional track and field meets, hasn’t supported the sport at the pro level in recent years, leaving the Mt. SAC Relays the area’s most prestigious competition, according to the LA Times.

“Our team is cohesive and our historical successes are just many factors Mt. Sac is a great choice for this event,” David Hall concluded. “We are looking forward to another successful event.”

Lots of work and excitement went into the making of this event as an Olympic site, which is for the first time in Southern California since 1984 when the games were held at the Coliseum. The Walnut stadium was chosen in an 11-2 vote by the USA Track and Field’s board of directors for the Mt. SAC proposal.

Mt. Sac is also rebuilding several areas of Hilmer stadium and the plans are completed and being executed. “I couldn’t be happier with the design and the amenities built into the structure.  It’s going to be wonderful facility, one that will be worthy of the outstanding, world’s best athletes that will come here to compete,” added Todd. He also noted they are, based on conversations with the people on campus whose job it is to build this stadium, they’ve had been a few bumps in the road but abelieve that’s to be expected in any type of construction project large or small.

“You know we have an ‘Olympic Caliber’ crew of people working on this thing who not only understand every aspect of all that we are attempting to do but who also have an amazing track record, no pun intended, of bringing projects of this scope to completion on time,” added Todd.  “This entire goal of bringing the trials to Mt. SAC is a very big TEAM effort.  Jokingly I’ve told them a number of times that “if you build it they will come”. We’ve won the bid, the Trials are coming so now we just need to finish the build.    I’m confident our team will build it and complete it on time and I’d like to think they are equally confident that once completed we will host one heck off a great event.

Everyone across the San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire is very much on board and appreciative of Mt. Sac’s efforts and the leadership of the city as the build takes place.

“Mt SAC is an important economic engine for Southern California. Hosting the 2020 Olympic pre-trials will expose the world to Mt SAC’s outstanding amenities and the vast resources it provides within the Greater Los Angeles Area and Southern California,” said Carolyn Anderson, long time advocate and Public Sector Solutions Manager for Waste Management Southern California.

Free Youth In Government Event

By Anthony Saude

Diamond Bar – The City of Diamond Bar is having a FREE event for youth ages 14 – 18 on Saturday December 2, at Diamond Bar City Hall, 21810 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar CA 91765, from 12 p.m. to 1:30 p.m.  Registration is required for this free event.

The event will give Diamond Bar middle and high school students a chance to see behind the scenes of local and state government from the eyes of an actual elected official.

What are the requirements to become and elected or state official? What does it take day in and day out to perform the job at the level it requires to do it competently? This event will begin to answer those questions and more. Diamond Bar youth will have the unique opportunity to learn from elected officials what it looks like if and when they decide to get into local or state politics.

This is the first year that the city of Diamond Bar will have this FREE event available as they look forward to the future of the youth in our city. The City sees it as a huge advantage for the residents of Diamond Bar as well.

Knowledge is power and the hope is that the youth become more interested in local or state government in the future. Think about it to have more qualified, educated and enthusiastic candidates running the local or state government is a win win situation for the city or state in the future.

Presentations, interactive exercises as well as lots of opportunities for questions and answers will be presented to the youth at this FREE event.

Participation in the event is FREE space is limited so registration is required so don’t delay get registered TODAY!! For more information or to register, contact the City’s Administration Department at 909.839.7013 or email asantos@diamondbarca.gov.

 

Chino Hills Grow House Fire

Photo courtesy: Anthony Saude

By Anthony Saude

Chino Hills – On November 17, 2017 Chino Valley Fire District firefighters and Sheriff’s Deputies from Chino Hills PD were dispatched to a house fire at 1807 Nordic Avenue in Chino Hills. When they arrived the residence was completely engulfed in flames.

While the firefighters were putting out the flames they discovered marijuana plants were being grown in inside the residence. The Sheriff’s Gangs/Narcotics joined in to assist with the investigation, search warrant in hand and assumed the lead in the investigation.

Chino Valley Fire Department and Southern California Edison also showed up at the scene to do their own investigation. It is believed that there were several hundred marijuana plants growing in the residence and most were destroyed in the fire.

Preliminary reports from the investigation have authorities believing that it was caused by faulty wiring due to the electrical meter being bypassed. This is a common tactic used to avoid detection by law enforcement of increased electricity use by the grow lights needed for an operation of this size.

Photo courtesy: Anthony Saude

It is very common for fires to start when using this method of utility theft, which of course is illegal itself. The loss of revinue to SCE in these cases will commonly be in the thousands of dollars.

The property owners leased their house to the residents through a property management company. This is an ongoing investigation. The San Bernardino County District Attorney will make the decision what criminal charges will be filed against the suspects. The charges they will be facing are utility theft, unlawful causing of a property fire, vandalism and marijuana cultivation.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact the Sheriff’s Gangs / Narcotics Division at 909-387-8400. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463).

 

Kindergartners Join Thanksgiving Feast

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile

By Kelli Gile 

DIAMOND BAR—About 120 Evergreen Elementary students wearing pilgrim and Native American paper hats sat side-by-side for a Thanksgiving feast on Friday morning.

Kindergarten teacher Mona Warren, costumed in traditional dress and moccasins, opened the event with a Native American blessing.

The children echoed each line using hand gestures.

“And now may the great spirits, of all great spirits, be with all of you, now and forever more!” they said in unison.

Then the youngsters joined in a Thanksgiving song with Warren accompanying on guitar.

“The pilgrims came to America a long, long time ago. They sailed on the Mayflower a long, long time ago. They made friends with the Wampanoag a long, long time ago,” they sang.

Before the meal, Warren asked the children to share something they are thankful for with the person next to them.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile

“I’m thankful for my teacher and everything,” said five-year-old Jeremy Han.

“I’m thankful for my mom,” added classmate Christine Diaz.

“I’m thankful for my toys – all of them!” chimed Evan Tasker.

Then the youngsters began sampling the turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, cranberry sauce, corn bread, and pumpkin pie.

Popcorn filled paper canoes decorated with teepee, buffalo, fire, love, and water symbols were at each place setting.

Some of the children gobbled up the traditional holiday meal, while others were content with a tiny taste of each dish.

“Mashed potatoes and popcorn are my favorites!” exclaimed Susanna Basilious wearing a white pilgrim bonnet.

“I like the popcorn and apple juice,” added five-year-old Orlando Perez.

The children also created keepsake handprint placemats and macaroni necklaces for their feast.

Evergreen teachers prepared the food, while about 20 parent volunteers were on hand setting up and serving the November 17 meal.

“We’ve been learning about the Wampanoag nation and the pilgrims,” said kindergarten teacher Diana Rogers.

Kathleen Riddle’s transitional kindergarten (TK) class wore decorated vests made from grocery sacks and headbands with feathers.

“The Wampanoag typically only had one or two feathers,” said the 19-year veteran teacher.

“I’m thankful for my TK students, I just love them,” Riddle added. “And for all my grandbabies!”

 

Man Arrested For Dog Abuse

By Anthony Saude

Chino Hills – On November 7, 2017, Enping Qu, a 22 year old resident of Chino Hills was arrested after allegedly pouring boiling water on his girlfriends dog. The dog, Sophie was in her cage when the alleged crime place.

The San Bernardino County Sheriffs Deparment was dispatched to the 1600 block of Butterfield Ranch in response to an animal cruelty call from a nearby resident. The resident stated that he could hear a dog (Sophie) yelping in pain and observed the Qu pouring boiling water into the cage on the dog at least five times. It was reported that he told the deputies that he was able to capture it on video using his phone.

In a statement released by the Sheriff’s Department, the deputies conducted a welfare check on the dog and found a tea kettle with scorching hot water in it and the dog’s fur and skin were still warm to the touch.

Official at the Inland Valley Humane Society, where Sophie was taken, measured the water at 129 degrees. Sophie was transferred to a veterinarian and will remain there for observation and examination just to be sure she is ok. Due to the ongoing criminal investigation the video will not be released at this time.

It was reported Qu said the dog belonged to his girlfriend and told the deputies that he thought it was cold water he was using and he had given Sophie a bath earlier that day. The stories didn’t really go together or make a lot of sense at the time. Sophie may be returned to her owner based on what the investigation turns up. Qu was arrested and charged with a PC 597 Animal Cruelty.

Teachers Of The Year 2017

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT, CA—Fifteen of Walnut Valley Unified School District’s finest educators were honored during the 20th annual Salute to Teachers on Wednesday.

The 2016-2017 Teachers of the Year, one from each site, were chosen by their peers as shining examples of this noble profession.

Over 300 educators, family, friends, and local officials gathered for the celebration of excellence held at the Diamond Bar High School Theatre on October 18.

Congratulations to the following Teachers of the Year:  Jill Wilson-Fairbanks – Castle Rock Elementary, Jennifer Hildebrandt – Chaparral Middle School, Rochelle Mortensen – C.J. Morris Elementary, Elisabeth Jones – Collegewood Elementary, Alice Oldag – Evergreen Elementary, William Foley – Diamond Bar High, Rebecca Rogers – Maple Hill Elementary, Tamara Schlachter – Quail Summit Elementary, Johann Aaron – Ron Hockwalt Academies, Annie Kim – South Pointe Middle School, Alexis Lujan – Suzanne Middle School, Giselle Cordova – Vejar Elementary, Stephanie Kalscheuer – Walnut Elementary, Chiara Morgan – Walnut High School, and Margaret Hamel – Westhoff Elementary.

Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor commended the outstanding, innovative group of educators for the work they do every day to support students.

“I have the pleasure of going into our classrooms and seeing the quality of teachers we have. I’m so proud to get to work with our teaching staff!”

“Every single study credits the classroom teacher as the number one indicator for student achievement,” he added.

“And when you look at Walnut Valley, one of the highest performing districts in the county, it’s no wonder why our students excel.”

Digital photography teacher William “Bill” Foley was named the 2017 District Teacher of the Year at the culmination of the program.

He has a sincere and genuine passion for his craft and demonstrates a tremendous amount of care to every student that walks into his classroom.

The 34-year veteran educator has taught in Walnut Valley USD for the past 17 years and is in his eighth year at Diamond Bar High.

“Being named District Teacher of the Year has been the greatest honor of my life,” he said.

Foley supports his students by celebrating their creativity. He shares their talents through the photos that decorate the campus, are posted on the school website and social media, and published in the school yearbook.

He can often be found on the sidelines at all types of extra-curricular and sporting events working with his students to capture amazing moments of the school community.

Additionally, he has established and ongoing articulation with Mt. San Antonio College which allows his students to attend fieldtrips to the college photo lab, construct photography portfolios, and complete the articulation exam for college credit.

Foley proudly showed several examples of student work as he addressed the audience during the program.

He described how students repair old family photos, create Alphabet City posters, learn about shutter speed, take candid pictures, and manipulate color/black and white images among the many lessons in his classes.

“My goal each year is for students to develop a passion for photography, have the tools to produce good images, and to never be content with average, boring images again!”

The recognition event included personalized tributes, awards, and student entertainment by the Diamond Bar High brass quintet under the direction of Steve Acciani.

Each Teacher of the Year received a golden apple bell award courtesy of the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation. Honorees received rolling carts filled with gifts, school supplies, and certificates of achievement.

A special thanks to the following event sponsors: Schools First Federal Credit Union, Chaffey Federal Credit Union, Massage Envy, Chick-fil-A, Benihana Restaurant, LifeTouch Photography, Farmer Boys, Julie’s Café, Mr. G’s Pizza, The Whole Enchilada, Rubio’s, My Lunch Spot, Roule Construction, Complete Business Systems, American Diversity Business Solutions, Sandy Best – BB&T Insurance, Yogurtland, and Chipotle.

 

Brahma Ribbon Cutting Ceremony Is A Slam Dunk

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR – Diamond Bar High School hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony to celebrate the completion of a new gymnasium floor on Wednesday.

District and school officials, coaches, along with 75 student-athletes attended the special event to commemorate the renovation project.

The new gleaming hardwood flooring features a gold brahma logo at center court with purple-shaded key areas.

“This floor that we’re standing on has really been the vision of one person, coach Tony McCabe, who is currently leading the girls golf team at the 2017 CIF State Championships in Roseville,” said Principal Reuben Jones.

“He picked the colors, layout, the logos.”

Members of the girls volleyball team, currently in second round CIF playoffs, girls and boys basketball, six-time CIF State Champion badminton team, and pep squad lined the perimeter of the court during the ceremony.

The student athletes are excited about their modernized home court.

“Our new gym is brighter and more inviting,” said basketball player Kaitlyn Lee after the ceremony.

“The sleek floor will allow us to agilely sprint across the court with ease.”

The previous 32-year-old floor was scheduled to be refinished in July, but had to be completely replaced after termite damaged was discovered.

Jones thanked district staff, school personnel, and parents for their support during the massive project.

Brahma Boosters took charge of relocating weekly bingo fundraisers to Chaparral and South Pointe Middle Schools during the 10-week construction project.

After the official ribbon cutting, the winter sports teams took to the court for demonstrations, followed by impressive basketball, badminton, and volleyball shots with officials.

 

Suzanne Students Take Honors in Math Olympiad

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT-More than fifty students from Suzanne Middle School were among nearly 150,000 competitors in the 2016-2017 Math Olympiad.

Math Olympiad enables students to challenge themselves and compete against other students nationwide during five monthly contests.

Suzanne Middle School earned a Mathematical Olympiads Meritorious Award for their outstanding achievement in grades six and seven.

The top overall school winner was for seventh grader Joshua Hsu who came in first place and scored in the top 2% of the nation. He was awarded a trophy and gold pin.

Serena Huang took second place scoring in the top 10% nationally and earned a sliver pin. Tied for third place were Daniel Ji and Deven Tseng scoring in the top 10% nationally and earning sliver pins.

In addition, several more seventh and eighth grade students received recognition for their high scores. Allison Lin, Maxwell Chang, Benjamin Jin, and Jenny Shen scored in the top 20% nationally and received silver pins.

Satvik Muddana, Kawin Watkins, Kayla Hao and Kevin Yu scored in the top 25% nationally earning patches.

Ella Lin, Lewis Lui, Andrew Shi and Bryan Wang scored in the top 30% nationally.  Alice Chou, Brian Lee, Renee Chang, Lina Huang and Kevin Zeng scored in the top 40% nationally.  And Wendy Fei scored in the top 50% of the nation.

The top winners, from grade six, tying for first place grade were Chandrark Muddana, Katherine Viala and Eric Wang all scoring in the top 10% nationally and earning silver pins.

The second-place winner was Max Eibert also scoring in the top 10% nationally and earning a silver pin. And, in third place were Jayaraman Donath and Andrew Wang both scoring in the top 25% nationally and earning recognition patches.

In addition, several more sixth grade students received recognition for their high scores. David Hu, Sophia Parungao and Jason Wang scored in the top 40% nationally. Jorich Quimbo and Andrew Yick scored in the top 50% nationally.

Congratulations to Suzanne students and coach Amy Erickson!

Chino Hills Man Arrested In 2005 Cold Case Homicide

By Michael Armijo

 

Chino Hills – A Chino Hills man was arrested by Homicide Cold Case Detectives last week for the murder of Noel Cornelius that occurred in November of 2005.
Malachi Dawson, Caucasian male, 32 years old (today), resident of Chino Hills, was one of two victims who were named last week.

The victim, Noel Cornelius, 23 years old (at time of death), was a resident of Victorville.

The suspects were Dawson and Michael Marshall, Caucasian male, 33 years old (today), resident of Moultrie, Georgia

On November 27th, 2005, Victor Valley Station deputies responded to a call for service for a dead body in the desert several miles southwest of Dale Evans Parkway off the Interstate 15 freeway in unincorporated Apple Valley. An autopsy was conducted and cause of death was determined to be from gunshot wounds. The victim was identified as Noel Cornelius a resident of Victorville. At the time of the homicide, Noel was married to Rebekah Dawson. Rebekah had two brothers, Malachi and Isaac Dawson.

In 2012, cold case homicide detectives assumed the investigation. Witnesses reported Noel was last seen alive at Malachi and Isaac’s apartment in Apple Valley. Present at the apartment with Noel were Malachi, Isaac and Michael Marshall. Since 2012, cold case detectives have conducted numerous interviews and re-examined physical evidence. On September 11, 2017, Cold Case Detectives Salsberry and Hartleben arrested Malachi for the murder of Noel and booked him at West Valley Detention Center for PC 187-Murder. Bail was set at $1,000,000.00.

On Wednesday, August 16th, 2017, Cold Case Detectives Salsberry and Shumway interviewed Isaac Dawson in Pennsylvania. On Thursday, August 17th, 2017, Salsberry and Shumway interviewed Michael Marshall in Georgia. On Wednesday, October 11th, 2017, Marshall was arrested for PC 187-Murder and booked into Colquitt County Jail in Moultrie, Georgia. On Tuesday, October 17, 2017, Salsberry and Hartleben conducted additional interviews with witnesses residing in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. On Friday, November 3rd, 2017, Marshall was extradited back to San Bernardino County and booked into West Valley Detention Center for PC 187-Murder.

The cold case team is comprised of Investigators Adam Salsberry, Nick Hartleben, Steve Shumway and Gerrit Tesselaar and Deputy District Attorneys Joel Buckingham and Denise Yoakum. Anyone with information regarding this investigation is urged to contact Detective Adam Salsberry or Sergeant Greg Myler, Homicide Detail (909) 387-3589. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78CRIME (27463), or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at http://www.wetip.com 

Burglary Suspect Arrested

Staff Reports

Corona – The arrest of a burglary suspect in Corona leads to the recovery of a mass of potentially stolen property and firearms.

On Monday, October 23, 2017, a residential burglary occurred in the 2300 block of Talbot Circle in the City of Corona. The victim of the burglary had security camera video that captured images of the suspect in the home. After the victim posted the video on social media websites, the Corona Police Department received numerous tips from concerned citizens on the identity of the suspect.

Corona Police detectives, working with the information from the public, identified 46-year-old Riverside resident Michael Cohan as a potential suspect. Corona detectives located Cohan in the 10800 block of Magnolia Avenue in the City of Riverside at about 7:30 a.m. today. Cohan, who was armed with a loaded handgun at the time of his arrest, was taken into custody for suspicion of residential burglary, possession of stolen property, possession of a concealed firearm, and conspiracy. He was transported and booked at the Corona Police Department jail facility, and bail has been set at $500,000.

Cohan’s female companion, 48-year-old Riverside resident Melissa Dillion, was also arrested for suspicion of possession of stolen property. Detectives served a search warrant associated with this case at a hotel in the 10500 block of Magnolia Avenue in the City of Riverside where they recovered a substantial amount of property from Cohan’s motel room. More than eight large plastic containers full of potentially stolen property including jewelry, watches, handbags, a specialty guitar, baseball cards, and other collectibles were recovered at the hotel. A secondary search warrant for a local storage facility resulted in the recovery of several additional firearms and other potential stolen property.

In the days to come, investigators will be releasing photographs of property that was recovered as a result of this investigation and may have been taken in other theft-related incidents. The Corona Police Department will provide a link to a photographic catalog of property that citizens can view in order to determine if any of the property belongs to them.

More details on this process and how property may be returned to the rightful owners will be announced once the property is cataloged and photographed. The investigation is ongoing and no additional details are available for release at this time.

 

Two Arrested in CH Burglary

By Anthony Saude

Chino Hills – The Chino Hills Police Department responded to a burglary call at a residence in Chino Hills early in the morning on October 30, 2017 on the 2100 block of San Tropez to investigate. When the officers arrived on scene it was determined that a residential burglary had taken place. The Chino Hills Police department immediately started their investigation into burglary but had little evidence to go on at the scene of the crime. Very few leads were produced during the first 48 hours of the investigation but then the victim turned over video surveillance footage that had been taken from inside the garage. The investigators received the video footage on Wednesday the first of November sometime after 4pm and made two arrests within 24 hours of receiving the evidence. The camera recorded 3 suspects in the garage; one of them was in possession of a handgun. It broke the case wide open, Detectives had identified two of the suspects involved in the crime and made the arrests. Mason Weymans who appears to be brandishing the handgun in the video and Patrick Gillins were both arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center for a PC459 (Residential Burglary). Both of the suspects are Chino Hills residents and the third suspect seen in the video is still being actively pursued by Chino Hills Police Department Detectives. The Detective  will continue to examine and reexamine all the leads concerning this burglary and any other crimes associated with these three suspects.

If anyone has any additional information on these suspects or any crimes they may have been involved in don’t hesitate to call the Chino Hills Police Department with the information. If you wish to remain anonymous please call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME.