Category Archives: Weekly News Top Stories

Lanterman Developmental Center Project Near Cal Poly Pomona Moves Forward

Photo courtesy: Brailsford & Dunlavey Hellmuth, Obata, & Kassabaum, Inc.

By Anthony Chan

Pomona, CA – California Department of Finance has transferred the Lanterman Developmental Center property, an approximately 300 acre property near the Cal Poly Pomona campus, to California State University in an effort to benefit Cal Poly Pomona’s education mission as well as the surrounding communities. With a team of experts assembled by Cal Poly Pomona, and an external team of experts with a diverse set of skills and expertise including civil engineering, design, and land use planning, Cal Poly Pomona has conducted extensive feasibility studies and has concluded that the Lanterman Developmental Center property is suitable for development.

The Lanterman Developmental Center property is bordered by California State Route 57 in the east, Temple Ave. in the north and Valley Blvd. in the west. The property was declared a surplus real estate property by the State of California in 2013. Jurisdiction over the property was transferred to Cal Poly Pomona on July 1, 2015 through a Memorandum of Understanding agreement with the California Department of Finance. Since then, the team assembled by Cal Poly Pomona and an external team of experts have worked together to survey the area and conducted detailed site analysis, building condition assessments, transportation and circulation analysis, historic preservation analysis, and market demand analysis.

In a summary of their due-dilligence analysis, Braisford & Dunlavey, a real estate program management firm, states, “The Site’s natural features (topography, plant materials, microclimate) and built features (historic districts, historic buildings and landscapes, existing roads) all influence the design decisions that are intended to enhance human comfort and conserve energy and resources while providing mission supporting development opportunities for Cal Poly Pomona. “

Detailed analysis shows that the site contains 131 buildings with 93 buildings, built between 1927 to 1969, eligible to become the Pacific State Hospital District – a name derived from Pacific Colony Hospital, the original name of the building complex – as defined by standards set by the Department of Interior.

“Preserving the Site’s historic structures and using them as a foundation for a new community and to establish the appropriate scale of new development can enhance the sense of place at Cal Poly Pomona, anchor the Site in its prominent place in California history and bridge the needs of students and the community at large,” according to the due-diligence analysis.

Walnut residents with questions or suggestions for what kinds of development they would like to see in the Lanterman Developmental Center are welcome to contact Talitha Tyler at ttyler@cpp.edu.  More information about the development can be found at www.cpp.edu/~lanterman/index.shtml.

Illegal Firework Activity In Chino Continues Unabated

By Anthony Chan

 

Chino – Illegal fireworks have continued to problem in Chino for the last few years. According to Section 8.12 of the Chino Municipal Code, “The sale of ‘Safe and Sane’ fireworks shall be permitted within the city during the period beginning on the 1st day of July and ending at nine p.m. on the 4th of July of each calendar year.” However, City officials have noted that fireworks continue to go on well beyond the limits set by City laws.

Illegal fireworks are a problem because they are safety hazards that can cause fires that threaten homes and they can injuries to children, bystanders, and onlookers.

Linda Reich, Director of Community Services in Chino, has reported that there were seven recent fires that were caused by fireworks and related activities- two grass fires and 5 container fires. The Fire District also received a paramedic call for injuries resulting from an exploding firework.

Chino fines people who possess or use illegal fireworks $1000, but the fine does not appear to be effective and less than half of the fines have been paid. City officials have looked to other solutions such as charging more for infractions, but California state law sets a maximum fine the City can charge for misdemeanors. At a recent Community Services Commission meeting, Commissioner James Espinosa asked if offenders could be put in jail. Linda Reich replied that offenders could not be put in jail, and that there were people committing much larger crimes with much smaller fines.

In order to increase enforcement, Chino Police has increased the police force from 42 officers in 2016 to 51 officers in 2017. Chino Police has also conducted undercover operations to confiscate illegal fireworks on Craigslist with total poundage of fireworks seized tripling from 2016.

Although Chino Police has stepped up enforcement, illegal fireworks continue to be a problem in Chino, because surrounding cities – namely Chino Hills and Ontario – have outright banned the use of legal and illegal fireworks for safety reasons. In the past year, 64 citations have been issued for the possession or use of illegal fireworks, with 40 of the citations issued to Chino residents, 1 repeat offender and 23 citations issued to nonresidents.

Part of the problem may lie in the size of Chino residents’ backyards. Many homes along Chino Ave. are on half acre lots, and the ability for residents to evade police enforcement by setting off fireworks in their backyards makes enforcement difficult.

Residents with ideas for how to address illegal fireworks in Chino are encouraged to contact the Chino Community Services Department at (909) 334-3256 or email at communityservices@chino.org. To report the use of illegal fireworks in Chino, please contact Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

Yellow Fever Mosquito Detected in Chino Hills

By Anthony Chan

 

Aedes aegypti, commonly known as the yellow fever mosquito, has been detected in Chino Hills, according to the West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, a public health agency managing the outbreak. Enhanced surveillance was triggered on August 21st as a response to a resident’s complaint of daytime biting mosquitoes, and traps were placed near Slate Drive and Agate Road in Chino Hills.

Yellow fever mosquitoes are small mosquitoes with white bands on their legs, says a press release by the West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District. “[Aedes] prefer to lay eggs in man-made receptacles such as tires, fountains, potted plants, and birdbaths.” Their eggs are laid “on the sides of containers, usually just above the water line, and can withstand drying and heat for up to 12 months. When the eggs meet with water, they activate and hatch.”

Yellow fever mosquitos are a known transmitter of numerous diseases including: the West Nile virus, dengue, and Zika virus. The mosquitos have “unique biting and egg laying habits” that give the mosquitoes the potential to “spread rapidly and introduce previously unseen human disease to our area.”

Brian Reisinger, a spokesman for the West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, says that they are currently conducting trapping and testing operations to determine the extent and severity of the infestation. The agency will be testing captured mosquitoes for West Nile Virus and other vector-borne diseases.

In order to combat further spread of yellow fever mosquitos, residents are advised to dump all standing water commonly found in flower pots, bird baths, trash cans, old tires, and clean the containers thoroughly. Also, the water in pet’s dishes should be changed frequently and pools and spas should be properly maintained.

To avoid bug bites, residents are advised to make sure window screens are in good repair and to wear mosquito repellent while outdoors. “The Centers for Disease Control recommends using a repellent containing Picaridin, DEET, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR3535,” according to the press release.

Please report any green pools, standing water, or day-biting mosquitoes to the District at 909-635-0307 or online at http://www.wvmvcd.org.

 

 

 

 

 

Back to School Time: Classes Begin in Walnut Valley

By Kelli Gile

 

WALNUT, CA—On Monday morning, backpacks, books, and school bus rides, signaled the end of summer vacation in Walnut Valley Unified School District.

About 14,300 students in transitional kindergarten through high school arrived on campuses to begin the 2017-2018 school year.

At Maple Hill Elementary, third grade teacher Lisa Peterson threw a Happy New School Year party for her class.

During the summer, she mailed the children invitations to the unique first-day bash, complete with instructions to bring their “enthusiasm and love for learning.”

Students found party hats, noisemakers, and colorful leis on desks when they arrived in the new classroom.

After enjoying mini muffins, apples with caramel dipping sauce, strawberries, and Capri Sun drinks, (because every party needs refreshments!), the class gathered under a giant balloon drop bag and began a traditional New Year countdown.

“10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1!” they chimed in union.
Then as 100 balloons magically floated down from above, the children began blowing their horns and shouting “Happy New School Year!”

“I wanted the day to be more than just rules and procedures. When my students’ parents ask about their first day, I want them to be able to tell them that it was the best day ever!” Peterson shared.

“It was great! thought it was just going to be studying, but we had treats,” 3rd grader Luna Sun commented about the surprise party.

“It’s something I hope they will remember for years to come,” added Peterson.

“Making an ordinary day extraordinary is what it’s all about!”

At Quail Summit Elementary, teachers and staff welcomed students with high-fives and hugs as they paraded onto the Diamond Bar campus.

“The energy coming into Quail Summit was felt by both staff and students as they started the new school year,” said new Principal Frances Weissenberger.

“What a joyful way to welcome our students and families!” added second grade teacher Kathy McLean.

At Collegewood Elementary in Walnut, teacher Kim Horn helped her students begin making lasting connections.

During a Just Like Me activity, each 4th grader received a small tub of Playdoh with instructions to create something they like to do.

The youngsters molded beach scenes, ice cream cones, soccer balls, motorcycles, and more.

As students took turns sharing their interests, classmates who liked to do the same things stood up and said “just like me!”

“The goal of the project is to start building community so that the kids understand that they have lots in common with their classmates,” Horn said.

“It is also fun and a way to lower the kid’s stress on the first day of school!”

Chaparral Middle School 29-year veteran-educator Gary Imai plans to engage his social studies classes by offering numerous hands-on manipulatives.

“It makes the learning more interesting than just reading from a textbook,” he offered.

Imai, who taught 7th graders for over a decade, will be working with 6th grade students again this year.

He’ll kick off with Ancient History lessons and students will soon be digging through sand to hunt for “fossils.”

During the summer, Imai found some old teaching treasures while rummaging through his attic.

“I thought, I can still use these because history doesn’t change!” he quipped.

Over 50 new educators were hired for the new school year, including Walnut High School environmental science teacher Alyssia Infante.

“It was exciting and a lot of fun meeting my students and working with the amazing staff on campus,” she offered.

Infante, the daughter of a Walnut Valley educator, chose to pursue teaching so she could share her passion for science with students.

Her most memorable moment on the first day was arriving on campus and being greeted by the teens she worked with as a student teacher.

“They all wished me a good luck and were eager to look at my classroom and tell me about their summer!” she said.

“I am looking forward to a wonderful first year!”

Jonathon Chung, a new 7th grade Language Arts teacher at Chaparral, also stepped in front of his first class on Monday.

“I was too used to substitute teaching and informing the students that I would be their teacher for the day.  To get up there and tell them I would be their teacher for the rest of the semester was kind of a, ‘No duh,’ moment for a lot of them,” he said.

Chung hails from a family of Walnut Valley educators and said he has always taken great pride in the work they have done.

He also applauds the entire Chaparral staff for “popping in” to offer their help while he was setting up his classroom.

“It is a very friendly and caring staff and I am fortunate to be able to work at this wonderful campus.”

After a morning recess at Collegewood Elementary, Jayne Knight’s kindergartners were sitting crisscross applesauce-style on the carpet as she delivered rules for being good listeners.

The wiggly youngsters immediately began raising their hands to ask some pressing first day questions.

“Can I get a drink of water?”  “Do we have to take a nap after lunch?” “Do we have to come back tomorrow?”

Yes, and just 179 days to go. Welcome back and have a wonderful school year!

 

Physical Argument Escalates Into A Stabbing In Chino Hills

By Anthony Saude

On Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at approximately 4:12 pm, Robert Thomas Ramirez was involved in a verbal argument with the victim in the backyard of a residence on the 15000 block of Ethel Street (Lower Los Serranos) in the city of Chino Hills.

There was an argument between two men that quickly escalated into fist fight. While the two were wrestling on the ground, Ramirez drew an unknown sharpened object and began stabbing the victim multiple times.

The victim sustained puncture wounds to his left triceps, both forearms and multiple lacerations to his face and back. The victim was able to call 911 and report that he had been stabbed and needed help said Sergeant Babel of the Chino Hills Police Department.

According to the victim, before Ramirez fled the scene he threatened to kill him. The victim said he feared Ramirez would be back to follow through with his threat. Ramirez fled the scene on a bicycle before the deputies arrived at the scene. The officers quickly began an area search and were rewarded for their efforts approximately one hour after the stabbing took place.

The quick acting efficiency of the Chino Hills Police Multiple Enforcement Team (MET), led them to Ramirez in the parking lot of the Los Serrano’s Country Club. Ramirez fled on foot and the officers had to pursue him on foot through the golf course. Ramirez was apprehended and taken into custody without any further incident.

Ramirez was booked at West Valley Detention Center for Attempted Murder and Criminal Threats. Bail was set  $1,075,000.00 and it has been verified with Sergeant Babel that as of August 24th at 1pm Ramirez is still in custody as of 1 pm. The victims name is being kept confidential for his and his family’s safety at this time. The case is still under current investigation and the district attorney can add charges if it turns up any new evidence.

 

Anyone with additional information about this crime is urged to call the

Chino Hills Police Department or WeTip at 1(800)78-CRIME.

 

Deputies Rescue Six-Month Old Baby from Hot Car

By LASD

On Tuesday August 15, Deputies responded to the Target parking lot in the city of Diamond Bar after receiving a child locked in a vehicle call.

Upon arrival the Deputies on scene see the baby’s face turning red and sweating profusely through the vehicle’s window. Deputies take immediate action and break a window away from the baby in order to rescue the baby from the hot car. The baby was checked by paramedics and later transported to the hospital.

The child’s mother had placed the baby in the infant carrier inside the vehicle and closed the door. She immediately realized she had locked the car and had left the keys inside the infant carrier. She immediately called 911 for help.

Have You Ever Tried Hatch Chiles?

Staff Reports

Join Clarks Nutrition for their 1st Annual Hatch Chile Roast between August 28th and September 1st. Come in to experience the robust, smoky one-of –a-kind flavor of Hatch Chiles. If you have never had a Hatch Chile, you haven’t lived, they are like no other Chile you have ever eaten.

When you purchase Hatch Chiles, Clarks will roast the on the spot for you. The Hatch Chile roasting tour will be at 4 different Clarks Nutrition locations in 5 days. Riverside, Rancho Mirage, Loma Linda. This is only happening one week out of the year, do not miss out on this “HOT” event.

You buy the chilies and they will roast them for you.

Organic Hatch Chiles $2.49 per lb

Case pricing $45 (25lb case)

 

Hatch Chile Roasting Tour Schedule:

Chino – Monday 10am-2pm Aug. 28

Riverside – Tuesday 10am-2pm Aug. 29

Rancho Mirage – Thursday 9am-12pm Aug. 31

Loma Linda – Friday 10am-2pm Sept. 1

DUI Driver Sentenced to 4.5 Years in Prison

Staff Reports

West Covina, CA – A 20-year-old man pleaded no contest Tuesday to driving under the influence in connection with a crash in West Covina that killed one of his passengers and injured another.

Andrew James Gomez of La Puente was immediately sentenced to 4 1/2 years in state prison following his plea to one felony count each of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated and driving under the influence of a drug causing injury.

Gomez was under the influence of nitrous oxide when he crashed his car into a pole in the 1000 block of South Lark Ellen Avenue in the early morning hours of April 29, according to Sarah Ardalani of the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

Jesse Jaco, 20, was pronounced dead at the scene, and a second passenger was injured.

Gomez was arrested that morning by West Covina police and has remained behind bars since then, according to jail records.

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

Photo courtesy: Google Images

By Michael Armijo

Walnut – 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.

Subject Arrested For Human Trafficking Out Of Local Office

Staff Reports
Chino – On August 16, 2017 members of the San Bernardino County Human Trafficking Task Force began surveillance of a commercial medical building in the 12500 block of 10th St in the City of Chino.  Investigators discovered that there were multiple victims posted on “Backpage.com” advertising for prostitution at this location.
Investigators observed a high volume of males going to and from the business.  After further investigation, it was established that investigators believed victims were being trafficked for the purpose of sex inside the location.  Investigators obtained a search warrant for the location, served the warrant and rescued two victims inside the location.  Two suspects that were believed to be at the location to pay for sex were also detained, and later released pending further investigation.  The suspect, Luis Lopez, was also located inside and was found to be acting as the pimp and was determined to be the primary suspect in trafficking the victims.
Lopez was transported to West Valley Detention Center where he was booked in on charges of felony pimping and pandering. He is being held in lieu of $100,000 bail.
The investigation is ongoing. Investigators believe there are other unidentified victims related to this investigation and urge anyone with information to contact the San Bernardino County Human Trafficking Task Force at (909)387-8400. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may contact We-Tip at 1-888-78-CRIME or you may leave information on the WE-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com Contact: Detective Nick Lefler / Deputy G. Deloria, Station: Human Trafficking Task Force Phone No.(909)387-8400, Case No. 621700304.

WVUSD Staff Kicks Off 2017-2018 School Year

WVUSD 

WALNUT, CA—As Walnut Valley USD students get ready to head back to class next week after summer break, educators have been busy gearing up for the new school year.

 On Wednesday, nearly 1,000 teachers, classified personnel, and district leaders gathered during a Welcome Back celebration held at Calvary Chapel in Diamond Bar.

 The 14th annual kick-off rally featured recognitions of over 200 long-service employees, Teachers of the Year, Cornerstone Award winners, and keynote message by Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

 “We’re looking forward to a phenomenal school year!” Dr. Taylor said to the assembled WVUSD employees.

 “There’s no better environment to get us fired up for the new school year than being in this building with you.”

 “This year’s All Means All slogan is a reminder of what we do every day,” Dr. Taylor added.

 “It’s about differentiating so that all kids have the tools to be successful at each stage of their education, being intentional and bringing in systems of health and well-being into a child’s education, and upholding high standards for all kids.”

 As staffers from all 15 schools and departments mingled and visited during the outdoor continental breakfast, they enjoyed music provided by the Diamond Bar High commercial music rock band under the direction of Steve Acciani and Daryl Hernandez.

 Inside the venue, the program began with pep music provided by 100 members of the Walnut High band under the direction of Corey Wicks and Katie Takahashi.

 Walnut High senior Julia Provencio performed the national anthem after boy scout troop #777 led the opening flag ceremony.

 Deputy Superintendent Dr. Matthew Witmer and Administrative Director Dr. Sergio Canal hosted the program that included over 50 raffle prizes provided by local businesses. 

Bill Foley, the District Teacher of the Year and Mike Bromberg, the Classified Employee of the Year, took a few moments to address their peer.

“It’s amazing to be up here today!” said Foley, a digital photography teacher at Diamond Bar High School. 

The 34-year veteran educator said he was advised in college to find a career that he was passionate about, and to know it well.

 By all accounts, he’s done just that.

“What I really care about the most when I’m teaching is my students and their work,” he said proudly showing a website featuring student photography.

When Foley asked his charges if they thought he deserved the Teacher of the Year award, they confirmed his passion and dedication to serving all students. 

“One student told me that I’m the most pure-hearted teacher he’d ever had,” the humble teacher shared

“None of us do this job alone. Every time you smile or say something positive to a teacher, it builds them up. I treat my fellow teachers the way that I want to be treated.

“It takes a whole district to raise a Teacher of the Year!” he added. 

“I’ve worked in all our schools and have seen firsthand how important classified employees are to everyone,” said Bromberg, a former carpenter and electrician, who currently serves as the operations manager at Diamond Bar High School

“We all work as a team in Walnut Valley and we want to give the best customer service that we can.” 

“In my opinion, we are the heartbeat of the school district!”

Bromberg, a WVUSD alumnus, recalled growing up always taking a keen interest when maintenance crews arrived at his school.

The men in blue would often have to remind him to “take a step back” when he got too close to the equipment

And now, Bromberg feels like he’s come full circle. 

“I’m dedicated to providing a great school environment for the next generation, just as it was provided for me!”

DB School Uses Global Connection

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar –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 the class through the World Education Connection program. 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 global teams shared their thoughts on the power of connection during an inaugural World Education Day event. “Asante Sana!” the students exclaimed in Swahili while waving to one another during the live global broadcast.

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

Annexation Proposal for Area Homes Approved

Photo courtesy: Michael Armijo
The City of Chino is set to annex approximately 40 acres from the County of San Bernardino in order to make way for the development of 44 Single Family Homes on pipeline Avenue in Chino.

By Anthony Chan

 

After two failed public hearings and thorough review by Chino’s city council and planning commission, a proposal for the construction of 44 new single family homes has been approved. Project plans are expected to be submitted by the end of 2017, and construction could begin as soon as next year on Pipeline Avenue.

The proposed development calls for the City of Chino to annex, from the San Bernadino County, approximately 40 acre area bordered by Pipeline Ave., Norton Ave., Chino Ave., and Hacienda Ln. and proposes numerous zoning changes which would allow for higher density residential development- increasing the current zoning from 2 single family homes per acre to 4.5 single family homes per acre in the area north of Heritage Park and changing the zoning of the area east of Heritage Park from Neighborhood Commercial to Residential Development at 2 single family homes per acre.

The proposal was questioned with it’s alignment to Chino’s General Plan, because the proposed development area appears to be out of the designations in the Future Growth Vision. However, Chino does have an interest in development in what city planners call the “Sphere of Influence” or unincorporated areas adjacent to Chino City boundaries.

The Chino General Plan states, “The SOI represents the area that the City of Chino views as its ultimate boundary. Therefore, the City has an interest in development within the SOI, even though current land use authority continues to be under the purview of San Bernardino County.”

The construction of new homes will bring increased tax revenue from property taxes, increased business to Chino businesses, and families struggling to find affordable housing in Southern California with median home prices in neighboring Los Angeles County rising to $530,000 in December of 2016, according to real estate data firm CoreLogic.

However, the construction of 44 new single family homes is not without its costs as well. More homes mean an increased number of cars on the road and more traffic, and higher infrastructure maintenance costs for the city. Also, the city bears new responsibilities in extending police and fire services and Chino’s sewer and water infrastructure to new and existing homes on the outskirts of Chino.

At two public hearings in March and April 2017 and a city council meeting, both Chino resdients and residents of the area being annexed have voiced their concerns, and now with annexation approval underway, the construction of 44 new homes is eminent.

Hopefully the new homes align with the vision in Chino’s General Plan to create “… places with healthy transportation options, a small-town feel, and provide for residents’ daily needs.”

16 Vie For Open Council Seat

By Michael Armijo

 

Chino Hills – Ed Grahams abrupt resignation last month, the deadline to apply has passed and 16 people have responded by the closing date of July 31st.

Opening up the position and having someone apply for it instead of electing one saved the city around $100,000 for a special election. The term ends a year from November in 2018.

Of the 16 applications, 10 were submitted on the last day they were due, July 31st. The seat is in the fourth district but since Mr. Graham’s seat was originally at-large (voted in by entire city instead of a specific district) anyone living within city limits could apply. But if they want to run in the November 2018 election, they must reside in the fourth district that encompasses Los Serranos and Fairfield Ranch, the fourth district.

Of the 16 applicants, five live in the fourth district and will be eligible for election a year from November: Roanld Eaton, Gary Lawson, Stephen Romero, Brian Johsz, and Joshua Landis.

Other applicants are: Paul Molinaro, an attorney and physician who ran unsuccessfully in the 2016 election; Rossana Mitchell-Arrieta, an attorney and president of the Chino Hills Dog Park Committee who ran unsuccessfully in the 2016 election; Gary Larson, retired, a former Chino Hills councilman and planning commissioner; Jim Gallagher, retired, vice president of the Chino Valley Democratic Club and Chino Hills Dog Park Committee, and a spokesman for Save Tres Hermanos Ranch who ran unsuccessfully in the 2016 election. Joshua Landis, a planning manager for Foothill Transit who has lived in the city for two years, Stephen Romero, director of development for Mayans Development, Inc. and vice chairman of the Chino Hills planning commission; Brian Johsz, director of government affairs for Athens Services, a fire board director, and involved with several civic groups; Ronald Eaton, food service cashier at Disneyland, treasurer of the Chino Hills Historical Society, and lifelong resident of Los Serranos. Garry Poliakon, a certified public accountant, Al Matta, a retired physical education coach, Healthy Hills Steering Committee member, and regular council meeting attendee; Lou Alfonso, retired, Chino Hills citizens on patrol and volunteer for various organizations; Jennifer Holtkamp, homemaker and owner of an online jewelry business. Timothy Finneran, executive director for campus safety at Azusa Pacific University and retired lieutenant for the Orange County Sheriff’s Department; Bob Goodwin, distribution center manager for SG Companies, chairman of the Chino Hills public works commission, and Hope for the Hills president; Annabell Liao, Chapman University graduate and intern for State Senator Ed Hernandez in West Covina; and Bill Taylor, initiative director for homeless for L.A. County’s Public Social Services, vice chairman of the Chino Hills parks and recreation commission, Healthy Hills Steering Committee, president and boat parade coordinator for the Chino Hills Kiwanis Club, and board member of the Community Foundation.

The city council discussed how to select an applicant last Tuesday, Aug. 8 at a city council meeting.

Why Graham abruptly resigned seems to still be a mystery, although many community members are thinking he has his priorities in order.

“I hear he’s been traveling with his family a lot, and family is first in my book,” said 20 year resident of Chino Hills Ben Cortes. “He placed his priorities in order and I respect that. I wish him well.”

Graham resigned abruptly on July 7, 2017 in a one line hand written resignation letter: “Effective by the end of the business day today, I resign my position on the city council.” He then signed and dated it.

Graham was reportedly the last original councilman, being voted on the city council in 1991 and served as mayor six times.

According to the California Government Code, the council has 60 days from the beginning of the vacancy to either call for a special election or fill the vacancy by appointment. The council voted 4-0, with Mr. Graham’s seat vacant, to appoint a successor by Sept. 5 2017.

The council had previously voted 5-0 last November to change the current system of electing officials “at large” but instead to vote per district. This means each area of the city will promote their candidate based on geology opposed to the age old popularity contest. They were reportedly threatened by an advocacy group or face a lawsuit, local reports said.

The application includes a questionnaire consisting of 14 questions, such as: have you reviewed the city budget, have you reviewed the city’s general plan, and have you attended or participated in civic meetings. The selected resident will serve on the city council until November 2018. Results will be posted next month after the council decides.

DB Film Permits

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – The city of Diamond Bar contracts with FilmLA to provide streamlined permit processing for all commercial filming and still photography.

Guidelines include All commercial filming and/or still photography within city limits requires a film permit.

Permit applications must be submitted at least three working days prior to start date to allow for review by City and County of Los Angeles Sheriff’s and Fire Departments.

Non-commercial photography or videography (personal use) does not require a permit. However, use of equipment such as lights or generators may require a permit.

Permit Fees  – A City single permit fee is $583.27, in addition to any FilmL.A. permit processing fees. Student filming is eligible for a waiver on a case-by-case basis.

Hours – Filming and/or photography may take place between the hours of 7:00 am to 7:00 pm in residential areas. However, requests outside the general hours will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The City may require surveys of neighborhoods to determine related impacts and mitigation considerations.

Use of City Facilities – For questions regarding City facility reservations, please contact Community Services Department – Facility Reservations at 909.839.7065. Reservations are strongly encouraged prior to submitting a FilmL.A. permit application.

Additional Information – Contact the City Manager’s Office at 909.839.7013 or via email at asantos@diamondbarca.gov.

Rise of SUV Third Row Seat Thefts

Photo courtesy: Google

By Michael Armijo

Chino Valley – Local police departments have issued warnings of the rise in SUV third seat thefts and encourage residents to secure their property.

“You can use a cable and lock the seat up to the inside of the vehicle, never leave your vehicle unlocked, park your SUV inside the garage or backed up against the wall so the tailgate doesn’t open, or just remove the seat from the vehicle and store it in your garage or storage facility,” a press release urged residents to do to avoid being a victim.

Popular models that have quick release rear seats have been GM model SUV’s, including the Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon and Cadillac Escalades are primarily being targeted because of their price. The thefts are most commonly occurring in residential areas during the night.

“You can get anywhere from $300-$1200 per seat,” said John Ramos, an auto recycling specialist. “Most people buy them online no questions asked,” he said.

“Please safeguard your vehicle by using the prevention tips provided and report any suspicious activity to Chino PD at (909) 628-1234,” said the Chino Police Department. For Chino Hills you can call (909) 364-2000.

2 CH Residents Jailed After Marijuana Bust

Courtesy: ANAPR File Photo

By Mireya Delapaz

Chino Hills – A chase ensued in Chino Hills this week that led to 2 arrests for the growth and possession of marijuana.

The two suspects, Zhi Cheng, 40 and Hui Yuan Li, 37, were being chased for 5 miles on the 71 freeway near the Westbound I-10 before getting arrested.

There were arrested on suspicion of marijuana cultivation and failure to yield a traffic stop. Deputies then searched their 5 bedroom home that was turned into a grow house, in the block of Dynelo Avenue in Chino Hills on Tuesday at 3 pm to find 391 plants, over 4 pounds of marijuana.

The last arrest for this was in 2016, when cultivation of marijuana charges were filed on suspects Michael Nguyen and Sheryl Nyguen. They were arrested for having 157 marijuana plants and 16 pounds of processed marijuana in their home.

According to the California Marijuana Laws and Prop 64, it is legal to posess up to one ounce of marijuana and up to 6 plants for adults that are 21 and over. Commercial sale and cultivation is only allowed by licensed providers and Illegal sale and or possession is a misdemeanor. Not until 2018, Prop 64 will then allow the sale of marijuana for adult use in licensed stores under regulations. Therefore, it is illegal to have a grow house in California and sell without consent.

CH PD Chase Ends in PIT Maneuver, Arrest

Staff Reports

Chino Hills, CA – A driver of a stolen vehicle flee from deputies which ensured in a pursuit that ended in Los Angeles after a PIT maneuver.
Last week at about 1:52 am a vehicle failed to yield and a pursue ensued. The result was a stolen vehicle chase that ended on Kadota Ave and Mission Blvd in Montclair.

Alexander Granados-Benavides, 34-year-old resident of Ontario was arrested when deputies from the Chino Hills Sheriff’s Station were conducting proactive patrol in the county area of Montclair and observed a vehicle blacked out on Kadota Avenue near Mission Boulevard. Deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop and the driver of the Toyota pickup failed to yield. A check of the license plate revealed it was a stolen vehicle.

The driver, later identified as 34-year-old Alexander Granados-Benavides, led deputies on a pursuit which drove through surface streets, construction zones and freeways without due regard for public safety. The pursuit ended in downtown Los Angeles where deputies performed a PIT maneuver. Once the truck was disabled, Grenados-Benavides fled on foot and was captured a short time later.

Grenados-Benavides was arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center for failure to yield, vehicle theft and possession of narcotics.

Anyone who witnessed the incident please call the Chino Hills Sheriff’s Station at (909) 364-2000 and refer to Case No. 021700650.

Homeowner Shoots Burglar

By SB Sheriff’s Dept.

 

Rancho Cucamonga- On Saturday, July 15, 2017 at 6:16 a.m. deputies responded to 911 calls reporting shots heard in the neighborhood. Deputies arrived and contacted a homeowner who told them he heard noises in his garage and went to investigate the sounds. Upon entering his garage, he was confronted by an unknown subject burglarizing his vehicle. The subject got out of the homeowner’s vehicle yielding a knife and advanced toward him. The homeowner was armed and immediately drew his handgun and fired at the subject. The subject ran from the garage, and then a vehicle fled from the area at a high rate of speed.

Shortly after arriving at the Carriage Pl. residence, dispatch was advised that a woman was calling from a Fontana residence reporting her adult son had been shot. That subject was transported to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center with multiple gunshot wounds. Deputies responded to the Fontana home to process the suspect vehicle, and to the hospital to collect evidence. Deputies identified the subject as Eric Hartwick and have determined he was the subject was involved in the Carriage Pl. burglary and shooting.

Hartwick was found to be on Post Community Release Supervision(PRCS) and was also in possession of narcotics. He will be booked upon release from the hospital.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Rancho Cucamonga Detective Division at (909)477-2800.
Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at http://www.wetip.com.

 

DB Fire Contained By Park

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – A fire broke out near the Carlton Peterson Park and was contained last week, just north of the 60 freeway.

LA County firefighters contained the 1 acre blaze within an hour and a half of the reporting of the fire, which was reported at 4 pm.

The patch of brush was just north of the LA County fire station 121.

The fire didn’t threaten the free way but onlookers slowed traffic down for a few hours during rush hour.

“No structures were damaged as firefighters established structure defenses” said Marvin Lim, LA County Fire Department Spokesman. “We are happy to report no injuries were reported as well.”

How the fire started wasn’t determined as of press time but Lim said an investigation is ongoing, routine for all fires.