Category Archives: Weekly News Top Stories

Chino: Reward For Serial AK-47 Bandit Who Shot Chino Officer

STAFF REPORTS

AK-47-Bandit

(Photo Courtesy: FBI)

Chino – The Federal Bureau of Investigation has announced a $100,000 reward offered in exchange for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the AK-47 Bandit, who is linked to the robberies of six banks in four states, and the attempted murder of a Chino Police Officer using an assault rifle.

FBI offices across the nation are announcing publicity efforts and new video relative to a serial bank robber who shot a Police Officer in Chino in 2012 after robbing the California Bank & Trust on Feb. 29. Following this armed robbery, a police offer patrolling the area came upon the suspect fleeing the scene. The suspect fired upon the officer, seriously wounding him. Prior to the bank robbery, a threat was called into the 911 dispatch center from a payphone in the general vicinity of the bank by a male caller. Investigators believe the suspect employed a diversionary tactic in an attempt to delay officers responding to the bank robbery.

The suspect has also been linked to bank robberies in Washington and Idaho, with the most recent incident happening in Nebraska City, Nebraska on Aug. 22.

During this most recent robbery at the First Nebraska Bank, the suspect carried a duffel bag and an assault rifle with a drum magazine similar to the weapon seen in his earlier robberies. The suspect proceeded to remove cash from the tellers’ drawers and directed employees to comply with his demands. The suspect then fled the bank with the stolen cash.

Agents are partnering with multiple agencies across many states, and investigators believe the suspect may continue to travel extensively to commit additional crimes.

The suspect is described as a white male, 25 to 40 years of age, 5’9” to 6’0”, approximately 180 to 230 pounds, with a large, stocky build. He possibly has blue eyes, and speaks with a deep, loud voice that carries no accent. He brandishes an AK-47 automatic assault rifle with a drum magazine. During some of the robberies, the suspect wore a black balaclava-style ski mask, black gloves, and navy blue body armor. He has also been seen with a green mesh vest with the word, “Sheriff,” on the back, and a Sheriff’s star-type badge pinned to the front of his closing. He has been reported to drive a grey, four-door, 2009-2011 Nissan Maxima with dark-tint windows and stock chrome rims, and a red/orange Jeep Liberty or Patriot SUV with a tire mounted on the back.

The suspect has committed crimes including robbery, attempted robbery and/or attempted murder in Chino, California; Sacramento, California; Vacaville, California; North Bend, Washington; Rexburg, Idaho; and Nebraska City, Nebraska.

The reward of up to $100,000 is being offered collectively by multiple entities that each attach a separate set of criteria that must be met in order to be distributed (FBI, up to $50,000; City of Chino, up to $20,000; California Bank & Trust, up to $10,000; and East Idaho Credit Union, up to $20,000.

The FBI is urging residents in all states to take a close look at the photographs and listen to the audio that has been made public. Video, audio, images and additional information can be found by visiting http://www.fbi.gov/news/stories/2014/september/help-us-catch-the-ak-47-bandit.

The suspect is proficient with an assault weapon and will not hesitate before shooting someone to avoid capture. He is considered heavily armed and extremely dangerous. Refrain from taking any independent action. Anyone with information regarding this suspect (or someone that meets the descriptions or has access to this type of gear or weapon), or is familiar with these vehicles, is asked to contact 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Walnut Family Festival

STAFF REPORTS

Walnut – Mark your calendars, because the popular City of Walnut Family Festival is coming to town on Sat., Oct 11. This is definitely an event not to be missed.

The Festival highlights a variety of businesses, service clubs, youth organizations, art, products and technology, all aimed at improving the quality of living in the City of Walnut. Part of the fun includes an Arts & Crafts Alley, Business Expo, Community Awareness booths, and a special Food Court featuring samples of cuisine from around the world.

 

Schedule of Events

  • 8 to 10 a.m. – Pancake Breakfast at Suzanne Park (sponsored by the Lions Club)
  • 10 a.m. to Noon – Parade along La Puente Road from Lemon Avenue to Suzanne Road
  • 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. – Kid’s Kamp at Suzanne Park
  • 11:30 a.m. to Noon – Opening Ceremonies at Suzanne Park
  • Noon to 6 p.m. – Entertainment at Suzanne Park

 

If you would like to participate as a vendor for products or services, or show your Walnut pride in the parade, applications and additional information are available online at the City of Walnut’s website at http://ci.walnut.ca.us.

 

Chino: Jury Duty Scam

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino – The Chino Police Department is warning citizens about a Jury Duty Scam that has brought about a recent increase in calls from victims and concerned citizens who have been targeted by a telephone swindle.

Scammers are contacting victims by phone, claiming that they are from the San Bernardino County Court. They are telling victims that they have missed jury duty and a warrant has been issued. They are then told that they can clear the warrant if they pay a fine – usually in the amount of $495 – by sending a money order. Most of the victims being targeted are Senior Citizens.

Citizens are urged to not provide any personal information or send money to anyone attempting to collect fees over the phone. Also make sure to ask specific questions as to the identity of the caller anytime someone tries to solicit information or money from you.

The County does not use this process for dealing with jury duty summons.

If you think you have been the victim of a scam, please report it to your local police department.

Walnut: City Council Recap 09.24.14

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Members of the City Council commended Lou and Joanie Simonelli and named them the "Walnut Community Heroes" for their extensive volunteer work at Walnut High School and throughout the Community. Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Members of the City Council commended Lou and Joanie Simonelli and named them the “Walnut Community Heroes” for their extensive volunteer work at Walnut High School and throughout the Community. Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

 

Walnut – The Walnut City Council held its final meeting of the month on Sept. 24, and it included more complaints about Mt. San Antonio College’s proposed parking structure, as well as a proclamation for this year’s Community Heroes.

After the invocation, Mayor Nancy Tragarz and the other council members congratulated Lou and Joanie Simonelli, and named them “Walnut Community Heroes” for their extensive volunteer work for Walnut High School and throughout the community.

“Lou and Joanie Simonelli are well known in the Walnut community as dedicated volunteers,” Tragarz said.

Tragarz also said the Simonellis were chosen after more than130 Walnut High School students signed a petition to have them named this year’s community heroes- showing that their years of work continues to touch the lives of many.

Council Member, Tony Cartagena, thanked them for all their civic work over the years and said the Simonelli’s volunteerism is what makes Walnut great.

Following the proclamation, the City opened its public comment section and was once again met with concerns about Mt. San Antonio College’s proposed parking structure and concerns with Michael Montgomery being a less than affective City Attorney.

The council then went on to approve the City Council and Housing Authority minutes for the Aug. 27 meeting before discussing one of the items on the council’s consent calendar.

Tragarz pulled Resolution No. 14-48 for claims and demands in the amount of $923,023.81, citing that part of the payment to Montgomery was worded incorrectly and therefore should not be approved. Her motion failed and the item was approved for its entire amount.

The council then approved two additional consent calendar items to support the “War on Child Sex Trafficking” legislation, and the appointment of five individuals to the Youth Advisory Commission.

The council also approved all of its items concerning the claims and demands for the Successor Agency, in the amount of $3,000, adopting the Recognized Obligation Payment schedule for the period of Jan. 1, 2015 to June 30, 2015, and an approval for the administrative budget for the Walnut Improvement Agency for January to June 2015.

The City Council then adjourned with plans to meet at 7 p.m., Oct. 8, at the City Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

 

 

Diamond Bar: Freeway Construction Projects A Go

STAFF REPORTS

(Image Courtesy: Caltrans)

(Image Courtesy: Caltrans)

Diamond Bar – The City of Diamond Bar was recently notified that a Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery grant (TIGER) was awarded by the federal government in the amount of $10 million for the 57/60 freeway confluence construction project.

According to City staff, the program was created by the 2009 Economic Stimulus Bill, which allows states and cities to apply for funding for transportation projects that have a significant impact on the nation, a metropolitan area or a region.

The confluence project is designed to improve traffic operation on Grand Avenue from Golden Springs Drive to the interchange at SR-60 in Pomona, increase the capacity at the Grand Avenue Interchange, improve traffic operation on the freeway mainline, reduce traffic weaving and increase weaving distance, and improve safety.

David Liu, Public Works Director for the City, said the application process was an incredibly competitive process. This is the sixth year of the grant program, and the City’s second try in pursuing this grant. $600 million in grant dollars were appropriated in the current grant cycle. 72 projects were selected from the U.S. Department of Transportation, with grants awarded from applications in 49 states. Liu added that the award validates the project as a national priority.

The grant will be matched with $4.5 million in Los Angeles County MTA funds, $10.6 million in City of Industry funds, and $9.4 million in federal funds – for a total of $34.5 million – to be used for the ongoing project. The funds will be used to implement the first three phases of the project to accelerate the congestion relief, starting in early 2016.

“The folks that travel that every day probably would attest to the fact that it is the seventh most congested interchange in the United States,” said Mayor Pro Tem Steve Tye. “It will get worse before it gets better, but now we know that the funding is there and it’s on the horizon to get better.”

Along with this confluence comes the agreement between Diamond Bar and the City of Industry to move ahead with new interchange on the 60 Freeway, at Lemon Avenue, helping to alleviate the traffic on Brea Canyon Road. The interchange will include a westbound on-ramp, eastbound on-ramp, and an eastbound off-ramp.

This Lemon Interchange construction project will match Diamond Bar’s Metro Prop C funds in the amount of $405,430, with $80,725 from the City of Industry, and $1,751,045 in federal right-of-way funds. The right-of-way phase should begin in June of 2015, with completion scheduled for January 2017.

 

 

 

 

Chino: Suspect Arrested for Attempted Murder of Local Family

 STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino – On Sept. 23, at approximately 6:50 a.m., Chino Police Officers responded to a call regarding a stabbing in the 6800 block of Cosmos Street. Upon arrival, the responding officers witnessed a male suspect, later identified as Aaron Hernandez a 19-year old Chino resident, walking down the street with a knife.

According to the City of Chino, Officers attempted to make contact with Hernandez, who was fleeing the scene of an attempted murder. He became uncooperative and Officers used a Taser to safely take him into custody.

The investigation revealed that Hernandez stabbed two family members. The victims were transported to a hospital with multiple stab wounds and are expected to survive. Hernandez was also transported to the hospital with minor self-inflicted wounds and has been arrested for attempted murder. He has a history of mental health issues and drug use.

This is an ongoing investigation, anyone with information is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

 

 

Chino Hills Gets A Dog Park

(Photo Courtesy: SSPCA)

(Photo Courtesy: SSPCA)

STAFF REPORTS

Chino Hills – Chino Hills’ dog-lovers have long desired a community dog park, and it looks like their wish will be coming true.

The Kramer family – long time owner/operators of the Los Serranos Golf Course and Country Club – has donated a parcel of land at the southeast corner of Los Serranos Country Club Drive and Los Serranos Road. This land was originally intended to house a tennis club, but times have changed and the land has been vacant for some time.

Local attorney and City Council candidate, Rossana Mitchell, who is the dog park committee president, said they are working with a budget of approximately $42,000 to bring this park to life.

“The construction should take approximately four to six months, depending on the processes with the City,” said Mitchell. “We will start clearing and cleaning up the land right away, and then there will be the site review and the environmental review. The land is already zoned for commercial/recreational purposes, so the hard part is done.”

Mitchell says that the design will be very straightforward and simplistic. The park will be divided into two areas, for large and small dogs, and will include a safety release gate with two openings, iron rod fencing, grass areas (irrigated with reclaimed water), and regular drinking water for the dogs and their humans.

“We may even invite some student involvement with architectural designs from Cal Poly, and choose from one of their ideas,” says Mitchell.

One of the most time consuming parts of construction will be the parking facilities and making sure they are in compliance with City standards.

Mitchell said that they have waited two years for this project to come to fruition, and everyone is really excited about it.

“The Kramer family has really stepped up and they have been so gracious. They are great animal advocates and are really excited about the project. And the best part, they will be able to name the park after their parents, Jack and Gloria Kramer, who have passed away.”

Chino Hills dog lovers, get ready for the “Jack and Gloria Kramer Dog Park,” coming in 2015.

 

City of Industry: Football Stadium? Not Yet.

BY GLENN FREEMAN

Los Angeles football stadium

Architect’s model of the proposed NFL stadium in the City of Industry. (Photo Courtesy: http://www.losangelesfootballstadium.com)

City of Industry – In early 2008, the NFL proposed a new stadium coming to Southern California, slated for the City of Industry. Now, six years later, we seem to be no further along in the process.

In April of 2008, Ed Roski, Jr., the billionaire head of Majestic Realty Co., announced his plans for the $800 million, 75,000 seat stadium, to be constructed off Grand Avenue near the interchange of the 60 and 57 freeways. The location seems ideal for its centralized access to 15.5 million people across four counties, including Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, and San Bernardino.

Roski’s plan to bring an NFL team back to greater Los Angeles was contingent upon receiving the necessary approvals. After 20 years without a team, the NFL appears to be no closer to returning to Los Angeles other than saying they would like to. Perhaps Commissioner Roger Goodell has his hands full with the recent public relations crisis centered on player domestic/child abuse allegations.

In recent queries to the City of Industry, Senior Planner, Troy Helling, stated that the only actions proceeding on the 600 acre site at this time are the mass grading, landscaping, and installation of the major infrastructure, as part of the former Redevelopment Agency’s obligations – as the State dissolved all such agencies.

“This will in essence create a table top onto which one of two approved projects will be developed in the future [the NFL stadium, and industrial/commercial use],” said Helling.

Local fans will have to continue to focus on their television screens, or travel to Phoenix, the Bay area or San Diego to get a taste of live action football.

 

Diamond Bar: City Council Recap Sept 16 Meeting

BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR.

Diamond Bar – Local homeowners are angry over the Millennium Development. At their Sept. 16 meeting, the

Diamond Bar City Hall

Diamond Bar City Hall
(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

Diamond Bar City Council heard from members of an exclusive gated community consisting of 751 home sites and more than 800 homeowners. They are concerned with an ongoing development project which dates back to 2005, which residents say was not properly advertised by City officials and could result in environmental hazards, as well as disturbances to homeowners adjacent to the construction.

At an informational meeting held on Sept. 9, City officials presented information to residents on the Millennium Tentative Tract 53430 project, a residential development of 48 single family custom lots inside the gates of the Country Estates on 80 acres at the terminus of Alamo Heights Drive and along Horizon Lane.

Although the City granted approvals for a conditional use permit, tree permits and an Environmental Impact Report to the developers, Millennium Road Partners, a geotechnical report, as well as on and offsite stability assessments of the site are currently under review, according to documentation made public by City officials.

Members of the Homeowners’ Association spoke during the public portion of the council meeting voicing concerns over the project. Citing the possible wear and tear of streets, noise and pollution, and the danger of heavy vehicles losing control on hillside streets, City officials were accused of arbitrarily granting the tentative tract map without considering the proper impact, and of not properly notifying all the association members.

“Eight plus years later, and many [homeowners] are just finding out they have been hoodwinked by the City that refers them back to a Board of Director which knows little or nothing about this development,” said association member Cassandra McGuiness.

“It is time to readdress this tentative tract map. Eight plus years have seen much change in protecting habitat for humans and plant life. The cost to the homeowners will be staggering and we are not prepared to support staggering costs,” said McGuiness.

Mayor Pro Tem, Steve Tye, overseeing the meeting for the absent Mayor, Carol Herrera, said, “I think it’s important for people to understand that this City Council (or any previous City Councils) didn’t hoodwink anybody.”

Other members said many questions had yet to be addressed, including a switch from a 26-foot wall along Alamo Heights Drive to two 15-foot walls, and how the development would geographically affect the location of the wall as well as the debris basin.

City Manager, James DeStefano, said the City held a meeting on Sept. 9 to inform residents about the details of the project and received feedback from them. “This project was processed over many years; it was noticed to 180 property owners in late 2005 into early 2006. The project was advertised and discussed in multiple public meetings at the time,” he said.

Association members speculate the development is being revisited as a result of a healthier real estate market, as well as the resolution of other complications facing the developers.

DeStefano added, residents and homeowners were notified of the project and were engaged in the planning, and members of the Association’s board knew about the project as far back as ten years ago when signs were posted on the property and advertisements were carried out as required.

“Back in 2005-06, the Planning Commission advised the City Council that the wall heights should not exceed 15 feet,” DeStefano said in reference to the retaining wall.

City officials indicated there was a substantial turnout for the informational meeting held Sept. 9, with more than 250 people in attendance. The purpose was to provide residents information to help them understand the project. DeStefano said the City is moving through all the questions they received in writing and will respond to them accordingly.

“The more we learn about this, the more we realize it’s a disaster,” said Association member, Michelle Yi. “The City of Diamond Bar owes us, every one of us should have been notified,” she said, adding that the area was a region that didn’t lend itself to development because of the disruptions to wildlife and other regional impacts.

In other matters, the Council was informed by Public Works Director, David Liu, that the City was notified that a Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery grant (TIGER) was awarded to Diamond Bar by the federal government in the amount of $10 million for the 57/60 freeway confluence construction project.

According to staff, the program was created by the 2009 Economic Stimulus Bill, which allows states and cities to apply for funding for transportation projects that have a significant impact on the nation, a metropolitan area or a region.

Liu said the application process was an incredibly competitive process. This is the sixth year of the grant program, and the City’s second try in pursuing this grant. $600 million in grant dollars were appropriated in the current grant cycle. 72 projects were selected from the U.S. Department of Transportation, with grants awarded from applications in 49 states. Liu added that the award validates the project as a national priority.

The grant will be matched with $4.5 million in Los Angeles County MTA funds, $10.6 million in City of Industry funds, and $9.4 million in federal funds – for a total of $34.5 million – to be used for the ongoing project. The funds will be used to implement the first three phases of the project to accelerate the congestion relief, starting in early 2016.

“The folks that travel that every day probably would attest to the fact that it is the seventh most congested interchange in the United States,” said Mayor Pro Tem Tye. “It will get worse before it gets better, but now we know that the funding is there and it’s on the horizon to get better.”

The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council is on October 7 at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive.

 

 

 

 

Pomona: Jay Walkers Beware

STAFF REPORTS

 

JAYWALK            Pomona – Traffic Safety has been a topic in the news quite a bit lately. With the seemingly increased number of pedestrian and bicyclist accidents and deaths, cities are cracking down on the rules of the road that apply to everyone.

As the Pomona Police Department says, Be Safe, Be Seen, and Be Smart, schooling us with the encouragement of the “3 Es of Traffic Safety: Education, Engineering and Enforcement.” Pomona has been working tirelessly on their campaign to reduce collisions and keep pedestrians and bicyclists safer. They have deployed electronic message boards reminding drivers to be attentive with over 250 hours of messaging. The next phase is to enforce the teachings.

You may be aware of the recent “Three Feet For Safety” law that went into effect on Sept. 16, mandating motorists to allow at least three feet between their vehicle and bicyclists moving in the same direction, or slow down and wait until it is safe to pass. Keeping that safer distance in check will help to reduce the number of collisions.

We’ve all heard that pedestrians have the right of way, but there are rules for them, too. According to the Pomona Police Department, there were 79 pedestrian related vehicle collisions in 2013. These collisions resulted in 69 injuries and 3 fatalities. The causes of these collisions can be attributed to drivers not yielding to pedestrians in crosswalks as well as pedestrians who unsafely walk onto the roadway, not conscious of their surroundings.

But we’ve all come upon the pedestrian that takes their right-of-way status a little too seriously. They cross in the middle of the street, and seem to slow down upon your approach. Sometimes they even look you in the eye, daring you to move.

Pomona Police investigators have concluded that some of our pedestrian related collisions were the cause of pedestrians disobeying a lighted traffic signal, suddenly running or crossing into the path of a vehicle, misjudging the speed and distance of a vehicle and alcohol consumption by the pedestrian as a contributing factor. UC Berkeley researchers have found that 30% of all pedestrian fatalities are related to improper street crossing.

The California Vehicle Code (CVC) prohibits pedestrian crossings at very specific locations, which leads us to the concept of “jaywalking,” or crossing between adjacent intersections controlled by traffic signals. Pedestrians do have a requirement not to cross a roadway that puts them in an immediate and dangerous conflict with a vehicle, and must use due care for their safety.

The Pomona Police Department says that now, pedestrians who suddenly walk or run onto the roadway, which can make them a hazard to vehicles, can be cited per the CVC. Pedestrians are also obligated, when they are not in a marked or unmarked crosswalk, to yield the right-of-way to all vehicles so as to not become an immediate hazard.

Remember: Be Safe, Be Seen, and Be Smart. Pedestrians, bicyclists and motorists all must take steps to ensure safety by following traffic signs, signals and rules.

If you would like more information about traffic safety, contact the Pomona Police Traffic Services Bureau at (909) 620-2081.

 

 

Walnut: City Approves Park Property Abandonment For Aquatic Center

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

three oaks parkWalnut – After years of litigation and a lack of development, the Walnut City Council overruled objections to the abandonment of 16.49 acres of land in the Three Oaks community, with plans to use the gained funds for an aquatic park.

The original objections originated from representatives from Standard Pacific Homes – the previous owners of the property – who claimed that the abandonment violated the Quimby Act.

Michael Battaglia, Standard Pacific’s Vice President of Project Development, stated that under the Quimby Act, the City was obligated to give Standard Pacific Homes “at least 60 days notice … before vacating, leasing, selling or otherwise disposing of the dedicated property.” Furthermore, Battaglia stated that the Council had a misconception of phrasing used in a previous agreement with Standard Pacific Homes, with language stating that the lot was dedicated for community center purposes.

During the Aug. 13 City Council meeting, Mark Weiner, Community Development Director, said the abandonment was legal under the Municipal Park Abandonment Law since its original agreement for the lot was for a park or open space area, and that the area had not been improved.

To appraise the validity of the abandonment, the City hired special legal counsel, Barbara Leibold, an attorney with Leibold, McClendon and Mann of Laguna Hills, and mentioned that the previous owners have not threatened the City with a lawsuit should it approve the abandonment of the lot.

“[Standard Pacific Homes] does have a different opinion, but it’s our position that the dedication falls within what we call the Municipal Park Abandonment Law and that the abandonment of the park purpose is lawful, and we followed the lawful procedural steps,” said Leibold.

According to Leibold, the Municipal Park Abandonment Law is old, but straight forward in its wording that, “Any property that is dedicated for park or open space purposes can be abandoned by the act of a City Council if that park has not been improved and used for park purposes and was dedicated for that purpose.”

Leibold also said the plan conforms to the City’s general plan, adhering to safety standards considering that a community center would cause unsafe traffic increases because of the singular exit in the Three Oaks community.

The abandonment and sale of the property was met with disappointment from some residents, including Richard Sorenzky, who said that a lot of planning done by the City and various architects went to waste.

“I’m very saddened that the City is trying to sell it and move on,” Sorenzky said. “I think it’s a loss to the residents of the City in general.”

Sorenzky said the abandoned land offers some of the best scenic views of the City and San Gabriel Mountains, and that it would be wise for the City to retain several acres to develop a neighborhood park to take advantage of the landscape’s beauty.

However, the abandonment plans are not seen as a total loss to some, since the funds gained from the sale are planned to go toward building an aquatic park.

The “Walnut Aquatic Park” group’s primary goal is to push the City to establish a community pool and community center for the enjoyment of all residents.

Claudine Stines, member of the group, said that she had more than 1,000 residents give their support for the project during the 2013 Walnut Family Festival, stating that the need for a community pool is paramount since residents are limited to using Mt. San Antonio College and Walnut High School’s pool.

Stines said she sees the abandonment of the lot and its upcoming bids for sale as a positive step toward constructing the aquatic park, and that residents should take the resolution as a victory for development.

“I know we have a long way to go; we waited a long time for this,” Stines said. “[The abandonment] is one more small step, getting us closer to where we’re going to have the aquatic center.”

Schools Remember 9/11

By KELLI GILE

 

Diamond Bar – Last week, Walnut Valley schools marked the 13th Anniversary of the 9/11 tragedy.

Photo Caption: Walnut High students placed nearly 3,000 flags in front of the campus to mark the anniversary of 9/11. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Photo Caption: Walnut High students placed nearly 3,000 flags in front of the campus to mark the anniversary of 9/11.
(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Chaparral Middle School band, orchestra, and choir performed patriotic songs to honor and remember those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2011.

“We want to make sure that we never forget what happened 13 years ago on this day,” said Principal Ron Thibodeaux.

The 8th Grade band, directed by Leslie Schroerlucke, performed the National Anthem and the Battle Hymn of the Republic. The 8th grade Orchestra played God Bless America and Honor and Glory.

“Honor and Glory was written as a dedication to all of the first responders, fire fighters and police officers,” conductor Greg Rochford said.

Social studies teacher Nancy Miles read the Presidential Proclamation for Patriot Day. She challenged the Chaparral students to perform service for others in the coming weeks.

“It’s as simple as writing a thank you note to a first responder, donating to a charity, or holding the door open for someone. How will you mark this day? What will you do for service?” she said.

The program concluded with the choir performance of Blowing in the Wind and Let It Be.

“These songs reflect on war and peace,” said director Richard Langham.

At Walnut High School, a score of students placed nearly 3,000 American flags on the front lawn of the campus during lunch and after school on September 10.

The event was organized by the Teen Republicans Club, who had support from the Young Democrats Club, Key Club, Sophomore Class Cabinet, and numerous volunteers.

 

SGV: Community Events

STAFF REPORTS

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Friends of the Taylor House Artist on the Porch Summer/Fall Series

When: Second Sundays, September 14; October 12; 1 to 4 p.m.

Where: Heritage Gardens Park, 3510 East Cameron Avenue, West Covina

Details: September event will feature craftsman period stained glass with Renn Hjellum-Lim.

Contact: For this and future events, visit facebook.com/taylorhousecraftsmanhome

 

Prescription Drug Take-Back Event

When: September 27, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Upland Police Department, 1499 W. 13th Street, Upland

Details: The Upland Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) will give the public its ninth opportunity in four years to prevent pill abuse and theft by ridding their homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs (the DEA cannot accept liquids or needles or sharps, only pills or patches).   The service is free and anonymous, no questions asked. Last April, Americans turned in over 780,000 pounds of prescription drugs at nearly authorized 6,100 sites.

 

Citizenship Information Session

When: September 27, 11 a.m. (with a follow up workshop on October 25)

Where: Azusa City Library, Auditorium

Details: Azusa City Library and Central American Resource Center have partnered to strengthen citizenship education efforts in the San Gabriel Valley.

Contact: (626) 812-5273, or email evilla@ci.azusa.ca.us.

 

Wheel Food Fest

When: 1st Friday of the month through October 3; 5 to 8:30 p.m.

Where: Walnut Valley Unified School District, 880 S. Lemon Avenue, in Walnut.

Details: The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation is sponsoring a family fun night with a variety of gourmet food trucks. This is a delicious way to support your students, schools and community. There are no entry fees, and there is plenty of free parking. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy! Food trucks may include: The Slummin’ Gourmet, Macho Nacho, Rolling Sushi, Cup Cakery, Crepes Bonaparte, White Rabbit, and Dos Chinos. Please leave your pets at home, and do not bring alcohol, outside food or drinks.

 

The Chino Hills Historical Society Presentation

When: Monday, October 13

Where: Chino Hills Community Center, 14250 Peyton Drive

Details: Local historian, Allen P. McCombs will give a presentation on, “Chino Valley’s Role in How the West Was Won.” This event was previously scheduled on Sept. 15.

Contact: Call (909) 597-2051, or email chhistory@aol.com

 

City of Hope Blood Drive

When: Thurs., Oct. 16, 12:45 to 7 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School, Gymnasium, 23300 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar.

Contact: Call (909) 861-2740 for appointments, and be sure to bring your ID to the event.

 

Free Intervention Information Sessions

When: Third Tuesday of each month, 6 p.m.

Where: Charter Oak Hospital, 1161 E. Covina Blvd., Covina

Details: Free information sessions about the intervention process, a powerful tool to combat alcoholism and addition. Open to the public, space is limited and reservations are recommended.

Contact: Aurora Charter Oak Hospital, (626) 859-5269, or visit http://www.charteroakhospital.com.

 

Free ESL and Citizenship Classes

When: Monday through Thursday, 9 to 11 a.m.; or Monday through Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: 2100 Lerona Avenue, Rowland Heights

Details: Rowland Adult & Community Education is now offering free English as a Second Language and Citizenship courses to adult students this summer due to a grant received from the Majestic Reality Foundation in the City of Industry.

Contact: Call (626) 965-5975, or visit http://race.rowland.k12.ca.us.

 

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Bookstore Blowout

Where: Twice Sold Tale Bookstore located at the Walnut Library, La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Details: All books and media: Any four items for $1 ($1 minimum purchase).

Contact: (909) 595-0757 or email the.walnut.library@mac.com.

 

Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second Tuesday of every month.

Where: Basically BOOKS locations: at 23447 Golden Springs Road, Diamond Bar and at the Diamond Bar Library: 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.

Details: Books and education videos will be offered at special discounts for teachers at all levels. Teachers can sign up at either Basically BOOKS locations or email BasicallyBOOKS@aol.com to join these special teacher appreciation afternoons.

 

Free Acupuncture for Veterans, Active Military, First Responders

When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Where: 12598 Central Avenue, Unit 113, Chino, CA 91710.

Cost: Free

Contact: (909) 590-4183 or http://www.healingcirclecommunityacupuncture.com

 

Jack Newe’s Farmers Market sponsored by SGV Regional Chamber of Commerce

When: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Mt. San Antonio College Campus, Parking Lot B, 1100 N. Grand Avenue, Walnut CA 91789

Cost: Free Admission/Parking

Features: Seasonal organic produce, breads and cakes, olive oils, cheese and spreads, a variety of nursery plants, hand-crafted items and jewelry, fresh-popped Kettle Corn and grilled food plates.

Contact: (909) 869-0701

 

Rowland Heights: 42nd Annual Rowland Heights Buckboard Days

BY GINA K. WARD

Rowland Heights – This year’s 42nd Annual Buckboard Days Parade and Festival will be held on Sat., Oct. 18, in Rowland Heights, and will be bigger than ever with the theme, “Nature in Our Own Backyard.”  

Rowland-heights-buckboard-parade

(Photo Courtesy: buckboarddaysparade.org)

Co-organized by the Rowland Heights Chinese Association and the Rowland Heights Community Coordinating Council, the parade will feature a variety of local school bands, community organizations, equestrian groups, floats, and the Wells Fargo Stage Coach. Local environmental scientist and educator, Kimo Morris, Ph.D., is this year’s Parade Grand Marshal.

The parade begins at 9 a.m. at the corner of Nogales and Colima, and will conclude at Rowland Heights County Park. There is no parade entry fee for community organizations and individuals. There is a $50 fee for each commercial or business application. The deadline for Buckboard Parade Entries to be included in the parade program is Sept. 17. To be in the parade but not the program, the final deadline is Oct. 10. All parade and festival applications can be found at www.buckboarddaysparade.org. Applications can be emailed to buckboardparade@hotmail.com.

Following the parade will be a Family Festival at Rowland Heights County Park from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. For everyone’s enjoyment, there will be entertainment on stage and throughout the park, with a variety of community booths offering food, handmade arts and crafts, and community information and services until 2 p.m., organized by the Los Angeles County Department of Parks and Recreation. For Festival Booth Applications, please contact Letty Guerrero at Rowland Heights Park by email at lguerrero@parks.lacounty.gov. Applications are available at www.buckboarddaysparade.org.

The Hacienda Heights Kiwanis Club will be sponsoring a pancake breakfast before the parade, starting at 7 a.m. Come early and enjoy breakfast at the Bell Memorial Church parking lot on Nogales, near the corner of Colima (1747 Nogales Street, Rowland Heights). Breakfast is just $5 per person.

The Parade Co-Chairs are Rachel Fung, Rowland Heights Chinese Association, and John Grant, Rowland Heights Community Coordinating Council. The Buckboard Days Parade Sponsors are Los Angeles County Supervisor Don Knabe; Los Angeles Parks & Recreation Department; Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and California Highway Patrol; First General Bank; Aera Energy, LLC; Southern California Edison; Henry Woo Architects; Rowland Water District; Walnut Valley Water; Southlands Christian Schools; Advanced Martial Arts; SK Taekwondo School; and the Shaolin Temple Cultural Center.

 

 

 

Pomona Gang Member Arrested

STAFF REPORTS
Pomona – On September 10, at approximately 7 p.m., known gang member, Arthur Ramirez, 21, was arrested.

According to the Pomona Police Department, officers from the Gang Violence Suppression Unit contacted Ramirez at his residence on the 700 block of Weber Street.

Ramirez is a known associate of a criminal street gang operating in Pomona. The gang is known to actively participate in shootings, assaults, narcotic sales, and multiple other crimes within the City of Pomona.

Ramirez – who consented to a search of his room – was found to be in possession of a short-barreled 12-gauge shotgun, approximately 200 rounds of live ammunition, and methamphetamine drugs. He was arrested on multiple charges and booked into the Pomona City Jail on $50,000 bail, pending a court date.

Walnut City Council Recap Sept 10, 2014

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – The City of Walnut held their regular City Council meeting on Wed., Sept. 10. Mayor Nancy Tragarz started off the meeting by awarding 20/20 Vision Optometry owner, Dr. Jonathan Joe, with the 2014 Business of the Quarter recognition, thanking him for 17 years of service to the City. Joe, who has performed chart work on more than 10,000 patients during his time in Walnut, said he was happy and honored to receive the award and thanked the Council for the recognition.

Dr. Jonathan Joe of 20/20 Optometry is honored by the council. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Dr. Jonathan Joe of 20/20 Optometry is honored by the council. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

The String and Bamboo Music group, led by Bin He, was also recognized for their long-standing work in the City as representatives of both music and culture.

Public comment had more discussion pertaining to Mt. SAC’s parking structure, with residents asking the Council to limit construction vehicles around Mountaineer Road, and to consider scheduling its meetings around the Mt. SAC board of trustees meetings.

Following public comment, the Council opened up the public hearing segment for one item, the Metrolink Subsidy Program. The resolution, which was unanimously passed, established the Metrolink subsidy at $32 per pass and a maximum of 300 passes per month to residents, and appropriated $50,400 from the Proposition C Fund balance to make the resolution possible in order to encourage residents to take public transportation to cut down on pollution.

The Council then approved the only item on the consent calendar pertaining to Resolution No. 14-47 for the claims and demands of the City in the amount of $541,692.82.

Council discussions then started with a debate among its members concerning the affirmation, modification or termination of City Attorney Michael Montgomery’s contract with the City. City Manager, Robert Wishner, laid out the options to the council members and noted that if reaffirmed, Montgomery’s contract would be set for two years, which would then end with his retirement. Councilwoman Su offered her opinion, stating that while she thought that Montgomery did make some mistakes during his time as City Attorney, she believed that his experience was a boon for Walnut based on his 33 years working for the City.

“Sometimes we have to wait and see what will be the best for us,” Su said.

Councilmember, Tony Cartagena, said the City has been blessed with Montgomery’s expertise, stating that he saved the City millions of dollars over the years.

Tragarz said while Montgomery has been useful to the City in the past, his lack of malpractice insurance poses possible threats, leaving the City open to damages if poor legal advice is given. She then mentioned that Montgomery has not been covered by malpractice insurance for the last six years and had not notified the Council of his lack of coverage.

Furthermore, Tragarz denied allegations that have been thrown around by unknown parties that she was “after (Montgomery’s) job.” She went on to say that she was making sure that the City Attorney adhered to laws and practices that govern all city attorneys and that not doing so could cause monetary damage to the residents of Walnut.

“I am not trying to be mean, I am not trying to be cruel,” Tragarz said. “All I’m trying to do is look out for the City’s best interest. Our duty is not to Montgomery, it’s to the citizens.”

By 9 p.m., Su excused herself, citing a family emergency concerning her mother.

Following public comments on the matter, Council member Bob Pacheco called to reaffirm the City Attorney’s contract, but the vote failed 2-2, with Ching and Tragarz dissenting. The Council then moved to table the discussion item for a later council meeting, but it failed with another 2-2 vote.

Council then passed on the item, after all three options to reaffirm, terminate or modify Montgomery’s contract were exhausted.

The City Council then adjourned with plans to meet at 7 p.m., Sept. 27, at the City Council chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

 

Walnut: Mora Gets 20 Years For Murder

STAFF REPORTS

mora-home

The Mora home in Walnut, scene of a gruesome murder.

Walnut – Socorro Mora, 46, who was convicted of the brutal stabbing death of her husband, as well as the family dog, has received her sentence in Pomona Superior Court. On Tues., Sept. 9, Mora was condemned to 20 years in state prison.

Socorro and George Mora had been married since 1993, but had become estranged in 2011. That September, Socorro moved out of the home on the 21600 block of Brookside Court in Walnut that the couple shared with their four children, and then later returned to ransack the house and stab and kill the family dog, Snowflake.

George Mora, 47 at the time, was awarded custody of the children and obtained a restraining order against his wife, but to no avail. Socorro returned to the home on Oct. 19, 2011, and stabbed her husband over 30 times with multiple weapons. She called police and was found in the front yard with 22 stab wounds – some life threatening – claiming self defense. George was found dead, inside the home.

The forensic investigation later showed that Socorro’s wounds were all self-inflicted, according to court documents. Socorro was initially hospitalized, and then arrested several days later.

Socorro’s trail began in Pomona on January 28, and she entered a not-guilty plea. On May 12, a jury found Socorro guilty of second-degree murder, animal cruelty, and corporal injury of a spouse. She has remained in jail since her preliminary arrest, and will continue to do so long into the future.

 

 

Birth Tourism: Is The American Dream For Sale?

Maternity Hotel 1By K.P. Sander

Chino Hills – You may have heard about Birth Tourism, and the so-called Maternity Motels that help to propagate it.  This is a nationwide issue that has been amidst a lot of controversy in the City of Chino Hills, and well beyond.

Wikipedia describes Birth Tourism as travel to another country for the purpose of giving birth in that country.  One of the main reasons for taking such measures is for the newborn to gain citizenship of that country, as well as take advantage of the destination’s healthcare system.

In the United States, our 14th Amendment to the Constitution guarantees U.S. citizenship to those born on its territory, provided the individual is subject to the jurisdiction thereof.  To stop Birth Tourism, some other countries, such as France, Australia, and the United Kingdom, have made the proviso that at least one parent must be a citizen of the country, or a legal, permanent resident.  The U.S. is unconditional.

The practice of Birth Tourism is popular among women in South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong, usually in elite or wealthy circles.  For a fee of around $15,000, women can come to the U.S., take a holiday with sightseeing and shopping excursions, and give birth to an American citizen.  But is this “playing the system” lawful?  Most aspects of it are not.

The organization, Not in Chino Hills, says women are coming to the United States under false pretenses.  They are learning about Birth Tourism through websites instructing them how to come here legally, but that is not necessarily the case.  Some of their guidelines are downright deceitful.

The Chinese website, starbabycare.com – and many others like it – actually provides specific guidelines for giving birth in the United States.  Their hyperbole suggests entering the U.S. two to three months prior to delivery and wearing relaxed and comfortable costumes in order to facilitate the U.S. Immigration process at the airport.  They regale about the benefits of American citizenship, including education, political asylum, and how the baby can help others immigrate on their ticket.

The website offers special “Star Packages,” featuring luxurious accommodations (that look nothing like a hospital, but more like an upscale hotel), promising everything from the ultimate in mother/baby care with full-time nurses and exclusive chefs “preparing meals according to your tastes.”  There’s even a thrice weekly shuttle for shopping trips and site seeing, as well as “major cleaning,” or maid services.  They entice it to sound as if you are booking the vacation of a lifetime abroad.  But who is in charge of the prenatal and neonatal care?

Local attorney, Rossanna Mitchell, who has lived in Chino Hills for 26 years – and is a spokesperson for Not in Chino Hills – says the whole system is misleading.

“Foreign women are being misled by these business operators.  They are flying over here on a tourist visa – ‘to visit Disneyland’ – and told to wear baggy clothes and not let anyone know they are pregnant,” says Mitchell.

The women are seeking the beautiful hospital accommodations shown on the websites, but are arriving in “residential areas where the accommodations are very substandard, with no amenities, and home improvements that are not permitted,” Mitchell adds.

Inspections of such homes have reportedly revealed exposed wires, unsafe water heaters, rooms with illegal distances from combustible appliances, improper ventilation, and a lack of emergency exits.  Generally, there are unsafe accommodations, not to mention the sewage (spillage) and sanitation issues and the excess trash that accompany the retrofitting for excessive occupants.

Mitchell continues, “You can’t turn your residence into a motel.  There are legalities involved.  Plus, a lot of these places are turning cash transactions to evade income taxes.”

Not in Chino Hills hosted a community meeting on Tues., Sept. 9, and Mitchell says good things were accomplished.  They have circulated a petition in order to file a formal complaint against seven of the Chino Hills homes in question.  They plan on sharing this at the next City Council meeting on September 23.  They would also like to direct the Council to emulate what the City of Arcadia has done, and hire a detective dedicated to addressing the illegal tourism business and putting a stop to the maternity motels that are cropping up.

There has been action to help write the wrongs.  State Assemblyman, Curt Hagman (R-Chino Hills), previously introduced a bill that would criminalize the operation of a hotel in a residential zone.

In January 2013, L.A. County Supervisor, Don Knabe, called on the Board of Supervisors to crack down on these maternity motels, which were becoming increasingly ubiquitous in the San Gabriel Valley.

“Across the United States, the recent trend in ‘birthing tourism’ has led to money-making schemes that put the health and safety of mothers and babies in jeopardy.  We have had an increase in complaints from neighboring residents, concerned about the well-being of those in these homes, as well as the concern about the quality of life in residential neighborhoods when these facilities are allowed to operate,” said Knabe.

Several homes have been identified as alleged Maternity Motels in the City of Chino Hills:  14661 Summer Breeze; 3198 Forrest Meadow; 3257 Cottontail; 3601 Hillsdale Ranch; 2502 Paseo Del Palacio; 2857 Calle Lumina; 3733 Cibola Court; 2890 Steeple Chase Drive; and 15693 Deodoer Lane.  Many homes have even undergone substantial renovations to facilitate these birthing centers.

On Dec. 15, 2012, the Chino Champion reported on an alleged Chinese maternity motel located at 15250 Woodglen Drive that underwent a court-ordered inspection.  The original dwelling, built in 1974, had seven bedrooms, and 6.5 bathrooms.  The inspection revealed that the same single-family house contained 17 bedrooms and 17 bathrooms.  Did someone actually issue a permit to approve that construction?  The City says, no.

This isn’t about denying anyone the American Dream, but is American citizenship for really for sale?  As one resident put it, “This is a perversion of our legal system.”

To find out more, visit http://notinchinohills.org.

Glendale: Man Sentenced For Medicare Fraud

STAFF REPORTS

 

Glendale – A Glendale man was found guilty as part of a health care fraud scheme that submitted in excess of $13 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare, and caused more than $3 million of losses to the program.

The United States Attorney’s Office has issued a statement that Hovakim David Mkhitarian, 31, was sentenced on Wed., Sept. 3, to serve seven months in prison, and seven months of electronic home monitoring, for conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Mkhitarian was also ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution and a $100 special assessment to the Crime Victims Fund.

Mkhitarian was found to be a mid-level participant in a sophisticated scheme that was based out of Los Angeles. Foreign students traveling in the United States on summer work visas were recruited for the fraud. They were encouraged to open bank accounts and commercial mail boxes for dozens of phantom medical clinics. After the students returned home, conspirators submitted fictitious claims to Medicare using wrongfully obtained physician billing numbers and thousands of Medicare numbers. Medicare deposited payments into the accounts opened by the foreign students, who pre-signed checks so that conspirators could withdraw the deposited funds. Money from the scheme was laundered through check cashing businesses, real estate, and gold dealers.

Two additional co-conspirators – Tigran Yusufyan and Hovakim John Mkhitarian – also plead guilty to commit health care fraud. Sentencing for Yusufyan will be held on Dec. 8, 2014, and sentencing for John Mkhitarian will be held on Feb. 23, 2015. A fourth member in this Medicare fraud scheme, Levon Gevorgyan, will be sentenced this November.

Santa Ana: O.C. Man Gets 4 Years In Federal Prison

STAFF REPORTS

Santa Ana – The owner of a Huntington Beach-based military contractor, who plead guilty to federal tax charges for failing to report millions of dollars to the Internal Revenue Service that his company received for providing services to the military at Baghdad International Airport, was sentenced on Fri., Sept. 5 to 48 months in federal prison.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Nadim “Nick” Saifan, Jr., 48, of Huntington Beach, was sentenced by United States District Judge Cormac J. Carney.

Saifan pleaded guilty in May to two counts of attempted tax evasion and specifically admitted that he substantially underreported income on his company’s 2005 corporate tax return and his personal tax return for 2006.

Saifan was the owner and operator of Defense Logistical Support & Services Corporation (DLSS), which provided services to the military and some civilian companies in Iraq. From August 2004 through October 2007, DLSS received nearly $16 million from the United States military for services in Iraq, according to court documents that state Saifan reported only a small fraction of this income on DLSS’s corporate tax returns filed with the IRS. The court documents also show that Saifan used foreign bank accounts, specifically in Lebanon, to conceal his assets and profits from DLSS Corp.

“In addition to failing to report the millions of dollars in taxable income on DLSS Corp.’s tax returns, [Saifan] also used substantial corporate funds for personal purchases and payments to himself, without claiming these distributions and payments as income to himself on his individual tax returns,” prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memo filed with the court. Saifan used corporate money to make approximately $880,000 in down payments on real estate and approximately $292,000 in payments toward vehicles that included a Ferrari and a Rolls-Royce.

Saifan has been in federal custody since Judge Carney revoked Saifan’s bond in May.

The case against Saifan was investigated by the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and IRS Criminal Investigation.