Category Archives: Weekly News Top Stories

Former Mayor’s Wife Killed In Car Collision

By Mireya De La Paz

Walnut – A 49 year-old woman, Tiffany Chiali Yi Ching, died after crashing into a big rig off the 60 freeway East of Santa Anita Avenue in South El Monte last week. She was later identified as former Walnut Mayor Eric Ching.

Ching was elected as a member of Walnut city council in April of 2012, and he was appointed as Mayor Pro Tem in July 2014.  On July 13, 2016 he Was appointed as Mayor of the City of Walnut.

The trailer tractor had been stopped on the right side of the shoulder of the freeway due to a vehicle breakdown. According to Officer J. Calder of the CHP’s East Los Angeles-area office “(The BMW driver) made a turning movement to the right toward the Santa Anita Avenue off ramp,” he said. “The BMW struck the right, rear corner of the stopped commercial trailer, continued in a westerly direction, collided a second time into the commercial trailer and the redirected to the north and came to rest on the right shoulder of the off ramp.”

After running an autopsy, the driver had suffered from traumatic injuries and they pronounced her dead at 1:54 pm. The speed at which Ching was driving was unknown but the incident was a ruled accident and did not involve any drugs or alcohol. The big rig driver did not suffer from any injuries.

Former DB Mayor Jack Tanaka Passed Away

tanaka

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Former Diamond Bar Mayor Jack Tanaka passed away today after a long battle with cancer, the LA County Sheriff’s Department announced.

Jack was honored last November where he received a standing ovation at Diamond Bar City Hall at the Nov. 17 council meeting as he announced his retirement from 10 years of service to the community.

Tanaka stated that the city council, staff and residents have made his 10 years of service memorable and a great learning experience. His last day in office was Dec. 1.

Tanaka, first elected in 2005, served twice as the city’s mayor and served on the City’s Planning Commission for more than three years. He said he wanted to spend more time with family, but will still remain active in the community who he considers family.
A retired U.S. Army Sergeant and former peace officer with the California Youth Authority and State Department of Corrections, Tanaka was first elected to the Diamond Bard city council in 2005.
A constant fixture in the community, Tanaka and his wife Wanda devoted much of their time to helping out in the community especially youth. From the Miss Diamond Bar Pageant and the local Humane Society to community birthday parties and city concerts, the Tanaka’s were always there to lend a helping hand.
The Tanakas believed community service makes each volunteer a better person, a caring person, a person living an enriched life.
The Tanakas moved to Diamond Bar in 1976 and have since remained actively involved in community matters. In 2012, the couple was honored with Lions Clubs International’s Lion of the Year Award, the organization’s highest honor and usually given to only one person in the world.
Diamond Bar resident Lorry Somers Hughes Meyer said it’s sad to see him go. “He was great asset to the city. He has surely accomplished his civic duty in spades!”

James Audley “When you are as involved as Mr. Tanaka is in his community you never retire,” resident James Audley said. “He and his wonderful wife Wanda embody the spirit of philanthropy and a service driven life. During my time working in Diamond Bar I cannot say I met anyone who was more kind and generous than the Tanakas. They are a model of what being a citizen is all about.”

Funeral Arraignments are pending.

#diamondbarmayor #tanaka #dbmayorpasses #tanakapassesaway

Police Department Issues New Address

Staff Reports

Chino –Effective immediately, the Chino Police Department’s official street address has changed from 5450 Walnut Avenue to 5450 Guardian Way, although they never physically moved.

Since 2012, the area surrounding the Chino Police Department facility has experienced several new developments, which includes, the naming of the road directly in front of the police station, as a new street: Guardian Way. So the building faces Walnut Avenue but is inset, with a small street in front. This small street in front, parallel to Walnut Avenue, is now Guardian Way.

Additionally, the Police Department is no longer visible from the adjacent main streets nor physically located on Walnut Avenue. Therefore, the change is necessary.

“We are excited about our new Guardian Way address,” states Chief Karen Comstock. “Not only will the change more accurately reflect our geographic location, but it is also symbolic of our mission to be ‘Guardians’ of the city we proudly serve.”

The address change will be reflected on all police correspondence, traditional and electronic mail, forms and website. As the police department transitions, over the next several months, it is imperative that the community is informed of the change.

Please be aware that the new address may not be immediately reflected on online maps and app.

Safe Drug Disposal

By Walnut/DB Sheriff’s Station
Do not flush unused, unwanted, and expired medications down the toilet or put them in drains!

How should I dispose of my medications?

For your convenience, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department offers a Safe Drug Drop Off program where both controlled and non-controlled substances are accepted. Take medications/drugs to the Walnut Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station for safe and anonymous disposal. The mailboxes on the front steps of the Walnut Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station are designated for anonymous drop-off of all types of drugs.

You can also return your medications to a pharmacy near you. Some pharmacies offer take-back and/or mail-back programs.

What kind of medications/drugs can be dropped off?

Prescription medications
Illegal drugs
Over-the-counter medications
Aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.
Cold/flu remedies
Birth control pills
Hormone replacement drugs
Veterinary medicines
Codeine, phenobarbital, and anabolic steroids, narcotics, tranquilizers, etc

Why is this important?

Medications flushed down the toilet or in drains pass through the sewer system and eventually enter our streams, lakes, and rivers. Medicines and synthetic hormones have been detected in trace amounts in bodies of water. This could lead to increased bacterial resistance to antibiotics and interference with growth and reproduction in aquatic organisms such as fish, frogs and all marine life.

The presence of medications in the environment is a complex issue and the risk to humans and the environment is still being determined. With tens of thousands of medicinal products on the market and more being developed each year, the long-term risks have not been determined on the effects on the environment. However, in order to minimize the potential negative and irreversible impacts, it is important that we limit the disposal of waste medications to the sewer.

(Some excerpts taken from Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Environmental Programs Division)
Contact Information: Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff Station – 909-595-2264,

 

Former K-Mart Center Building

By Marissa Mitchell

 

Diamond Bar – Many citizens in the city of Diamond Bar are wondering just what is going on at Diamond Bar Boulevard (where the “old K-Mart” used to reside), and there is thankfully some new revealing information.

Diamond Bar’s Kmart store, which included 84,000 square feet of inside retail space plus a garden center of about 10,000 square feet, opened in 1975 and closed in 2014 amid the company’s ongoing financial struggles.

While the property is managed by private owners, construction is currently underway. According to Community Development Director Greg Gubman, there have been several approvals solidified thus far of new tenants in what will become the renovated building. Of those tenants, Sprouts Market and Ross are confirmed, and will be completed and operational by the projected date of Dec. 2017.

“It was a long, slow death,” said Greg Gubman, the city’s community development director. “Kmart and Sears have both been struggling and Kmart had more value in the land lease than in the general sales from that site. They sold their lease to the property owner.”

Gubman also said that there have been a few approved establishments for the empty lot space just adjacent to Diamond Bar Boulevard: Chipotle and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, the latter of which will have a drive through. These are also estimated to be completed by the end of the year, though that completion time may run into early next year.

Sprouts Farmers Market is in the process of hiring more than 100 employees for a 30,000-square-foot Diamond Bar location that will occupy part of a former Kmart store.

The market, at 239 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., is scheduled to open Oct. 11 and openings are available for a variety of full- and part-time positions, including department managers, produce, dairy and bakery clerks, meat cutters and administrative and scan coordinators, among other roles.

More information can be found at sprouts.com/careers or by calling 866-925-2396.

There will be additional tenants occupying the renovated former K-Mart building, and the private owners of the property are still securing those tenants.

When asked how this will benefit the city, Director Gubman said, “These various retail uses will help diversify the revenues for the city of Diamond Bar.” This is not only needed in the community, it is greatly desired, as the current state does not provide benefit or aesthetic appeal.

One of the goals delineated by the City Council at the beginning of the year to promote long-term economic development was the following: “In cooperation with the property owners, redevelop the K-Mart site to include retail and restaurant options.”

Gubman said a Ross Dress for Less will move into another portion of the building and a third section will be subdivided between three tenants that have yet to be named. Another 10,000-square-foot addition to the building is under construction where the garden center used to be.

“They are also proposing two drive-thru buildings out front,” he said. “One would have a Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and a Chipotle Mexican Grill and another building would have a Habit hamburger restaurant.”

The new lineup of stores is tentatively going to be called Diamond Bar Ranch. It sits adjacent to the Diamond Bar Plaza shopping center.

Gubman said the city is glad to see Sprouts and other stores preparing to move in.

“We’re pleased that we’re getting national retailers,” he said. “The community seems pretty excited about a Sprouts coming in.”

The building’s conversion also has generated some welcome construction jobs. Tony Gonzales of Savant Construction Inc. in Chino said his company has 15 to 20 workers doing interior work on the Sprouts store.

“We’ve been here for about three months,” he said. “We tore out the slab and did new concrete, electrical and plumbing work, lighting and all of the finishes.”

The city is now fulfilling that objective, much to the relief of many Diamond Bar residents.

Chino Hills Vacant Seat Open

Photo courtesy: Google Images
Chino Hills Councilman Ed Graham’s abrupt resignation leaves an open seat on the City Council.

By Michael Armijo

Chino Hills – After the abrupt resignation of councilman Ed Graham, the Chino Hills City Council voted to appoint his successor instead of electing one, a move that will save the city around $100,000 for a special election. The term ends a year from November in 2018 and Residents must apply by July 31.

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.

Since Graham was elected under the old rule, that you can live anywhere within city limits, the appointee will not be required to abide by the new law, which goes into effect next year in November. He or she will just have to live within the city limits of Chino Hills.

Once suggestion from a community member was to appoint a candidate from the previous election. Those three are Jim Gallagher, Rosanna Mitchell-Arietta, and Paul Molinaro. Mr. Gallagher and Ms. Mitchell-Arrieta said they would apply for the seat, although Mr. Molinaro reportedly said he requested an application but is undecided if he will apply.

The applications must be returned via hand delivery or mail by 5:30 p.m. Monday, July 31 to the city clerk’s office at Chino Hills City Hall, 14000 City Center Drive.

Applications may be obtained from the city clerk’s office or by visiting www.chinohills.org and clicking “city council vacancy” under the heading “In the Spotlight” on the left side of the home page.

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.

Looks Like It’s NO On Measure H

By Michael Armijo

 

Chino – Chino has spoken and their voice was heard. NO on H won, so this means there will be no zone changes for the proposed property and general plan.
Yesterday, Tuesday, July 11, a special election was held for the city of Chino registered voters to vote on Measure H, which would have amended the general plan the Chino Municipal Code. But it did not pass so no amendment will happen.
The Special Election was held to submit Measure H to voters within the City of Chino. Voters decided whether to amend the Chino General Plan and the Chino Municipal Code. The Registrar of Voters of the County of San Bernardino conducted the special election and canvassed the returns for Measure H.
“It has been defeated,”  Cyn Geithman Sielen, a volunteer on the No On H Committee, Protect Chino. “It was a team effort and we all worked hard to preserve our community.”
The Ballot Question was: Shall Ordinance No. 2017-004, entitled “Shall Ordinance No. 2017-004, entitled “An Ordinance of the People of the City of Chino, California, to Enact Section No. 20.15.160 of the Chino Municipal Code Converting 29.7 Acres From the General Plan Designation of RD 1 to RD 4.5, RD 8, and RD 12 Generally Located Between Vernon Avenue and Benson Avenue, South of Adams Street, and North of the Chino Promenade Shopping Center and rezoning the same from an RD 1 designation to RD 4.5, RD 8, RD 12 designations” be adopted?”
So what does that mean in layman’s terms? A large housing development would’ve been built if passed July 11. Developer D.R. Horton planned to build 180 homes in north Chino if the special election ballot had passed.
There was both an opposition and a proposition to this ballot in and around the surrounding neighborhoods. If approved, the measure stipulated that 20 acres of rural land south of Francis Avenue would’ve been rezoned. In place of rural space would’ve been 12 single-family homes, 87 detached single-family homes, and 73 condos.
The two groups, those opposing Measure H which had organized a committee “PROTECT CHINO” and the supporting Measure H called “Support Chino Jobs and Schools, Yes, on Measure H,” had been dueling for the ballot measure.
Currently, 30 acres of parceled land north of Cinemark Movies in Chino is zoned for one house per acre, possessing the grazing land and 8 single-family houses. In a Chino City Council meeting in April, the council voted 4-1 to place Measure H on the ballot for citywide election.
“Thank you for all your hard work!!” said Kristi Schwartz, an avid supporter of the NO movement said on social media this morning.
“Thank you, Laura, for being involved in this amazing effort,” said Chino Mayor Eunice Ulla in the same thread.
The property owners of the rural land are long-time Chino residents, and state that this development would’ve been a benefit for the city. Matt Evans and father-in-law Ron Brewer, stated that more than 600 Chino residents have expressed support for the project. Unfortunately, it was only 25% of the vote and just wasn’t enough.
“This just goes to show your vote DOES count,” added Daniel and Brenda Strong.

#measureh #chino #noonh #noonmeasureh #chinodevelopmen

 

DB Auto Burglary

By Michael Armijo

Diamond Bar – An auto burglary was reported last week at Steep Canyon Trail near the hiking trail, residents reported.

“Just a heads up, my daughter went hiking (Monday) morning and her car was broken into,” said Gabriel Amaya on social media, who is a long time resident of Diamond Bar. “We’ve been here numerous times without any problem.”

“Please be on the lookout for this SUV,” Amaya added. “It also has a broken side passenger window so it shouldn’t be hard to spot.” The description of the vehicle appears to be an older model Chevy Suburban, gray in color. You can see the video at https://www.facebook.com/TheWeeklyNews/  “We were able to get this (video) from a close neighbor who had cameras in her property. If you see this vehicle please take picture of license plate and or call police.“

The recent increase in burglary crimes can be attributed to the summer school break and the trying economy, but also the weather. According to http://www.bjs.gov, In all of the years except 1995, rates of household property victimization appeared highest in summer and lowest in either winter or spring. “Statistical analysis of the seasonal rates indicates that they were higher in the summer than in the other seasons of the year,” the report said.

Rates of total household property victimization include burglary, motor vehicle theft, and household larceny. Compared to summer rates, household property victimization rates were an average of about 7% lower in winter, 8% lower in spring, and 3% lower in fall. Therefore, the difference between rates in the summer and other seasons was relatively small, but noticeable.

If anyone has any information after viewing the video at https://www.facebook.com/TheWeeklyNews/, please contact the Walnut Diamond Bar Sheriff Station at 909.595.2264.

Brush Fire In Walnut

Staff Reports

Walnut, CA – Last Monday, July 10th, about 40 firefighters battled a small brushfire in Walnut, knocking down the blaze that endangered homes in about a half hour, authorities said.

The Los Angeles County Fire Inspector, Gustavo Medina, said the first-alarm fire, which was reported right after 3 p.m., burned a quarter acre of brush. He said that no one was injured and no structures were damaged and firefighters stopped the fire’s progress.

On the 800 block of North Plantation Lane, the fire broke out and Medina said the initial call was a half-acre fire running uphill. Later, firefighters updated the size of the area burned to a quarter acre. No evacuations were necessary, according to deputies from the Walnut Diamond Bar sheriff’s station. Sheriff’s officials alerted residents of a neighborhood near Silver Valley Trail and Snow Creek Drive in Walnut.

Straight Talk With Danice

Dear Danice Akiyoshi ND,

I have a friend who is constantly competing with me.  I hope you can help me understand her.  When I got a new car, within 3 months she got a new car.  When I changed my hair color and style, she attempted to duplicate my exact look.  When I got a dog, the next month she got a dog.  When I got engaged to my boyfriend of 3 years, within 6 months she was wearing an engagement ring from some guy she’s only been dating for a few months.  She doesn’t realize that all of our friends are laughing at her behind her back.  I feel embarrassed for her, but this is awkward for me.  I do not enjoy being the center of attention this way. We aren’t very close.  She is one of my sorority sisters and we have regular gatherings because many of us are getting married, having bridal showers and weddings.  I don’t want to pull out of the group. Aside from this problem we have a great time together.

May I have your advice please?

Meghan

 

Dear Meghan,

This woman obviously idolizes you.  If there is nothing about her behavior that harms you then let it go.  When your other friends attempt to make mention of your copy cat friend, discourage them.  This woman obviously has struggles about her personal identity.  She likes what she sees in you.  Perhaps you can view it as a compliment.  Even though it is awkward, I don’t see this as harmful for you.  If she starts to violate your personal space in any way then that’s a different story.  If that’s not happening, feel flattered; enjoy your days and your friends.  Take note that humans copy each other in many ways.  Look around.

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

Fireworks Branded Violations

Photo by Michael Armijo

Staff Reports

Inland Empire – Fireworks in Chino Hills, which are all illegal, resulted in on citations being issued, according to the Sheriff’s Department. Diamond Bar had nothing to report as of press time. But between 6 p.m. and 12 a.m., the Chino Police Department in collaboration with the Chino Valley Fire District issued 64 fireworks citations on Tuesday, July 4th. Assigned personnel strictly enforced Chino Municipal Code 08.12.170 relating to fireworks possession and discharge.

The joint enforcement was geared specifically to look for offenders who inappropriately used “safe and sane” fireworks and/or were in possession of illegal fireworks. The 14 assigned teams confiscated 289 pounds of illegal fireworks. In addition, before the 4th of July, enforcement personnel confiscated 1,075 pounds of illegal fireworks during proactive operations, according to a press release by the city. The grand total weight of confiscated illegal fireworks related to the Independence Day celebration is 1,364 pounds. The police department also received 220 fireworks calls for service during the six hour period. This is a minor decline compared to last year’s calls for service which totaled 290 calls.

“While it is unfortunate that people continue to violate the law by using illegal fireworks, I am pleased to report we did not have any significant fireworks related incidents during this year’s 4th of July celebration,” Chief Karen Comstock stated in a press release. It is important to note; in order to issue a citation, officers must witness an offender in possession of/or using the illegal fireworks. Each of the 64 citations issued were for possession of illegal fireworks, which carries a $1,000 fine.

The crackdown should result in $64,000 in fine money, which the city hadn’t specified where the money goes to as of press time.

Two Men Injured in Gun Accident at Prado Olympic Shooting Park in Chino

Staff Reports

 

Chino – After a gun was accidentally discharged, a man in his 30s was shot in the hip at Prado Olympic Shooting Range Park, according to a Chino Valley Fire District news release.

Firefighters responded at 1:13 p.m. to a report of an accidental discharge at the range, the release stated. One man in his 30s had been shot in the hip and a second man, also in his 30s, had suffered an ankle injury. The first patient was airlifted to Loma Linda University Medical Center in stable condition while the second patient declined further medical treatment, according to the release.

There were no immediate details released on the shooting, such as accidental, intentional, or if anyone was cited or arrested. A call to the Chino Police Department was not returned before press time.

Prado Olympic Shooting Park was the former site in the 1984 Olympic Games and is considered a premier facility.

Diamond Bar Oil Recycling

Courtesy City of Diamond Bar

 

Diamond Bar –The City has kicked off its Oil Recycling Campaign by alerting residents of the 3 easy disposal methods for residents.

With curbside, door pickup and local drop off services, the campaign aims to raise awareness by way of public outreach efforts, messages in a variety of media, and distribution of free oil recycling kits.

Free Oil Recycling Kits
Funded with a grant from CalRecycle, the free oil recycling kits consist of a funnel, zip-lock bag, two shop towels, loop filter wrench, and drain pan/storage container that holds 15 quarts (the equivalent amount of three oil changes).

The kits will be distributed to Diamond Bar residents and include a used oil drain container, a funnel, shop rags, and filterdisposal bags. Kits are available at city hall, located at 21810 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.

Two Free & Convenient Disposal Methods
Once the container is filled, residents should transfer the used oil into a clean plastic container with lid such as a milk jug, and dispose of it through one of the following two free methods:

Scheduling a pickup with waste hauler:

  • Single Family residents contact Waste Management – curbside  (800.266.7551)
  • Condos, Apartments, and Commercial residents contact Valley Vista Services – (800.442.6454)

Dropping off at a State-certified collection center*:

  • AutoZone – 303 S Diamond Bar Boulevard (909.396.4682)
  • Firestone Store – 1150 S Grand Avenue (909.861.4140)
  • Jiffy Lube – 2845 S Diamond Bar Boulevard (909.869.7273)

*Calling the centers before taking oil and filters is recommended.

Did you know?

  • Motor oil doesn’t wear out, it just gets dirty; it can be cleaned of contaminants and recycled indefinitely.
  • Oil filters contain steel, a valuable nonrenewable resource, and can be crushed and recycled into other products.
  • No other substances should ever be allowed to mix with used oil because contamination by other chemicals may mean the used oil cannot be recycled.
  • Motor oil that washes into storm drains can create a film on the surface of waterways, depriving aquatic life of necessary sunlight and oxygen.

MORE INFO:

“RECYCLING MADE EASY – Used Oil & Used Oil Filter” campaign – Contact the City’s Public Information Office at 909.839.7055.

Registration for Mt. SAC Fall Classes Begins July 12

Staff Reports

Walnut–– Online registration for Mt. SAC’s fall semester credit classes begins July 12.  Classes begin on Monday, Aug. 28.

All credit students must register for classes online through the My Mt. SAC Portal at my.mtsac.edu. New students must submit an admission application online. For students who do not have computer access, computers and assistance are available in the Student Services Center during business hours. The Admissions Office is open now Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.

The enrollment fee is $46 per unit for California residents, and all fees are due upon registration.

For more registration information, call the Mt. SAC Admissions & Records Office at (909) 274-4415, or visit http://www.mtsac.edu.

Measure H On July 11 Ballot

Photo courtesy: City of Chino
The map above shows the area that will be rezoned if Measure H is approved
by voters on July 11th.

By Marissa Mitchell and Michael Armijo

Chino – This coming Tuesday, July 11, a special election will be held for the city of Chino registered voters to vote on Measure H, which will amend the general plan the Chino Municipal Code.

The Special Election will be held to submit Measure H to voters within the City of Chino. Voters will decide whether to amend the Chino General Plan and the Chino Municipal Code. The Registrar of Voters of the County of San Bernardino will conduct the special election and canvass the returns for Measure H. Below is the ballot question; key dates and deadlines; documents and general information.

The Ballot Question: Shall Ordinance No. 2017-004, entitled “Shall Ordinance No. 2017-004, entitled “An Ordinance of the People of the City of Chino, California, to Enact Section No. 20.15.160 of the Chino Municipal Code Converting 29.7 Acres From the General Plan Designation of RD 1 to RD 4.5, RD 8, and RD 12 Generally Located Between Vernon Avenue and Benson Avenue, South of Adams Street, and North of the Chino Promenade Shopping Center and rezoning the same from an RD 1 designation to RD 4.5, RD 8, RD 12 designations” be adopted?

So what does that mean in layman’s terms? A large housing development that will be built if passed on special ballot July 11. Developer D.R. Horton plans to build 180 homes in north Chino if the special election ballot passes.

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

The two groups, those opposing Measure H and an organized a committee called “Support Chino Jobs and Schools, Yes, on Measure H,” have been dueling for the ballot measure.

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

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

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

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

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

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

For or against, this Tuesday July 11, cast your vote for your voice to be heard.

Local Bank Robbery Suspect Caught

IMG_4584

Staff Reports

Chino – The “AK-47” bank robber who shot and wounded a local police officer back in 2012 was caught this week in another state. He is also accused of a string of bank robberies throughout the country. He was dubbed the “AK-47 Bandit” by FBI agents because in each robbery, the suspect brandishes an AK-47 –style assault rifle with a drum magazine. 

Richrd Gathercole, 39, was arrested in Helena, Montana for shooting at a Kansas State Trooper. While in jail, Gathercole himself tipped police off during a recorded phone conversation. According to a transcript, he apparently called his mother, whom he lived with, and instructed her to “get all the guns out of the house”. His mother, who was unnamed, agreed and then said “um, this is recorded. You know that.” Apparently he did not.

On Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012, the California Bank & Trust on 5455 Riverside Drive in Chino, California, was robbed by a white male, described as 25-40 years old, with a stocky build.  The suspect was armed with an assault rifle, similar to an AK-47, with a sling and drum magazine.  Following the robbery, a police officer patrolling the area came upon the bank robbery suspect who was fleeing the bank.  The suspect fired upon the officer and seriously wounded him.  During and following the robbery, the suspect wore body armor over a dark-colored collared short-sleeved shirt and blue pants, as well as a ski mask covering his face. 

The suspect was seen leaving the scene in a vehicle described as a dark gray Nissan Maxima with four doors and tinted windows.  A witness described seeing Arizona license plates on the vehicle. The suspect was seen in bank surveillance video and photographs dressed in tactical gear over a dark-colored, short-sleeve collared shirt and blue pants. He also wore a black full-face ski mask, a blue ballistic vest and/or a green mesh vest marked “Sheriff.”  

“I was on my way to the post office and parked across from the Chino Valley Medical Center Emergency entrance as I usually do,” said Michael Armijo, a passerby. “Then comes a police car screeching down the street as though he didn’t have control of the vehicle.” He drove erratically because the officer had a bullet in his leg, the police department confirmed.

“The officer flipped the door open and yelled ‘I’ve been shot’ and I ran up to the car with another passerby. I instructed him to get help at the ER and I tried to help him get out of the car,” Armijo said. “He then proceeded to give me details about the incident and the suspect to tell the detectives when they got there, so I did.” Armijo also said the officer told him he just happened to pull up when the robber was walking out. It was just timing, the officer had no warning there was a robbery going on. The robber saw the policeman and just began to open fire on the police car, striking the car in the fender, the door and the rear panel. The officer was hit through the door and the bullet entered and exited his leg, while the gas tank was punctured but did not ignite, Armijo said.

FBI officials have been looking for years for the suspect in Vacaville, Rexburg and others in California, Washington state and Nebraska dating back to 2012.

FBI agents, along with officers from Chino; Rexburg, Idaho; and Montana’s Musselshell County searched Gathercole’s home in the town of Roundup, about 50 miles north of Billings, on Saturday, according to officials with the Musselshell County Sheriff’s Office. Inside, they found “numerous” improvised explosive devices that were removed by a bomb squad, the officials said in a statement. His arrest was for the attempted shooting of the trooper who was trying to pull him over on interstate 70, and the trooper wasn’t injured.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Chino Police Department at 909 628-1234, their nearest FBI office or dial 911. For more information you can sign onto http://www.chinopd.org/.  The FBI’s wanted flyer announcing the reward can be found at http://www.fbi.gov/wanted/unknown/unknown-suspect-17/view.  Information can be provided confidentially.

Mt. Sac Chosen For Olympic Trials

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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, making this event an Olympic site 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’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 captacity. The trials, scheduled for Jun 19-28, 2020, will select US track and field delegation for the Tokyo Games.
“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.”
“I’m very proud of the team that helped bring this to fruition, and excited by the challenge” said Doug Todd, Director of Track and Cross Country for Mt. Sac told 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 success are just many factors Mt. Sac is a great choice for this event,” David Hall concluded. “We are looking forward to another successful event.”

Walnut Teen Killed in West Covina Crash

Staff Reports

Walnut –Wednesday morning, a 17-year-old student was killed when a vehicle he was driving collided with a tree on the center divider on Nogales Street.
According to local reports, Ali S. Rizvi died when the minivan he was driving crashed into a tree on Nogales Street between Francesca Drive and Shadow Oak Drive. West Covina police spokesman Eddie Flores said someone heard the crash and called police at around 3 a.m. According to Flores, Police believe the minivan was southbound on Nogales Street when it hit a tree in the center median.
Coroner’s spokesman, Ed Winter, said Rizvi was pronounced dead at Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center at about 4:44 a.m.
Officers found the minivan and the injured driver and have not determined what led to the crash. A local resident was reported as saing he heard a loud crash around 3 a.m. and it was common to hear drivers speeding on Nogales Street. When he woke up around 7 a.m., he saw officers asking neighbors if they saw anything related to the crash.

Fire in DB: 1 Dead

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – A man in his 50’s was found in a fire at a Diamond Bar home early this morning but was pronounced dead at the scene, LA County fire department officials said.
Around 4 am this morning in the 23400 block of Wagon Trail Road fire fighters arrived to flames coming out of the first floor of the home. After a search, they found the man unconscious with severe burns on his body. The home is north of Sycamore Canyon park, and just south west of Golden Springs and Diamond Bar Blvd.
Responding firefighters found flames and smoke coming from the first floor of the home. While searching the house, they found a man in his 50s inside with major burns He was removed from the home and died at the scene. His name was not released.
The fire was contained in about 45 minutes and arson and homicide investigators were on the scene. There was no word yet on the cause or if foul play was involved. As of press time no details were available and the investigation was ongoing.
Anyone with any information please contact the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s station at 909.595.2264.

Suzanne Middle School Robotics Team Takes First Place

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT, CA—Suzanne Middle School’s Wolf Corp robotics team has capped off a successful year by taking the top award during the 2017 Razorback International Competition.

Wolf Corp won the 1st place Overall Core Values Award at the tournament held at the University of Arkansas last month.

During the competition, the robot scored over 200 points and the K-911 device students invented to protect police dogs from overheating in cars impressed judges.

Wolf Corp also surprised the panel by participating in 40 outreach events including the LA Fair, OC Fair, and Walnut Family Science Night as well as donating robot kits to the Skyhook Foundation and children in Ghana.

The Overall Core Values Award is given to the team that best embodies creative design and programing of the robot, as well as having an exceptional project, outstanding teamwork, and a team highly dedicated to sharing their experiences with the community.

The international contest included 68 top-performing teams from around the world including Japan, Brazil, Israel, Slovenia, Canada, Korea, Chile, Spain, and Australia.

The Suzanne team received an invitation to represent the Los Angeles Region after winning the 1st place Project Research Award during the Championship Tournament in December

The Wolf Corp pack includes students Kawin Watkins, Gordon Lau, Nathan Tan, Jason Wang, Brian Feng, Conor Fox, Christian Langarica, Katherine Viola, Alina Chang, and Nathan Chang.

The team is overseen by parents Scott and Lek Watkins and teacher advisor Vicky Silcock.

Wolf Corp received numerous awards in the past three years including Moonbots Phase I Winner-Google Lunar XPrize, and 1st Place Most Engaged Robotics Team from LEGO Education. Wolf Corp is also a 3- time Southern California FLL Cup Champion at Legoland.

Members strive to be good role models and inspire others students to get involved in Robotics and STEM Education.

The team will continue building robots and giving back to communities. For more information, visit http://WolfCorpRobotics.weebly.com.