WVUSD Trustees Celebrate Outstanding Students, Parent Volunteers

PHOTO BY WVUSD
Partner in Education Awardees Sonal Choksey, Lily Eibert, and Caryn Mason with family members, Board President Tony Torng and Suzanne Middle School Principal Les Ojeda.

By WVUSD

Walnut —Each month, Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees celebrate hard-working students and dedicated community members.

During the March 15 meeting, South Pointe and Suzanne Middle School leaders took to the podium to introduce their hand-picked honorees.

South Pointe parent Annalisa Gore was lauded with the Partner in Education Award. She has served as community club president for the past two years.

Annalisa is a collaborative leader who leads by example and has a magical way of making all parents feel like they belong.

Additionally, she puts “Kids First” by raising important funds to support learning, character development, and extra-curricular activities on campus.

“Annalisa is willing to roll up her sleeves and help in any way she can, including selling bobas!” said Principal Susan Arzola.

PHOTO BY: WVUSD
(Above and below) WVUSD Board President Tony Torng presents Super Star Student Award to South Pointe 8th grader Ivan Vazquez on March 15.

South Pointe 8th grader Ivan Vazquez received the Super Star Student Award. Although he has faced many challenges in his short life, it has not limited Ivan from achieving success.

The young man is a positive role model who puts a smile on his face for anyone who crosses his path.

If Ivan sees a classmate that is having a hard day, he lifts them up. If he sees an adult that needs a helping hand, he’s there to offer it.

“Ivan is always positive, pleasant, compassionate, helpful, considerate, and greets you with a smile,” Arzola said.

“We are very proud of Ivan and all of his accomplishments and all the contributions he makes to the school!”

The Roboheroes robotics team from Suzanne Middle School received the Super Star Student Award.

Team members are Matthew Carreon, Nathan Fong, Collin Lee, Spencer Lee, Codey Ma, Marcus Robles, Roman Robles, Ethan Tungpalan, Sarah Wang, and Ronnie Zhang.

PHOTO BY: WVUSD
South Pointe Middle School parent volunteer Annalisa Gore is honored with Partner in Education Award on March 15. Shown with Principal Susan Arzola and Board President Tony Torng.

The Roboheros won 1st place Robot Game at the Legoland FLL Cup in February.

Team members spent countless hours building and programming a Lego robot, researching and finding a solution to help animals, taking part in community outreach events.

“These students have gone above and beyond to represent our school in a positive way,” said Principal Les Ojeda.

The team is coached by advisor Vicky Silcock, and parent volunteers Jonathan Fong and Daffodil Robles.

The Roboheroes recently won the Core Values Inspiration Award at the Los Angeles Regional Championship and has been invited to represent the region at an international championship tournament sponsored by NASA in West Virginia this summer.

A trio of Suzanne dedicated parent volunteers Sonal Choksey, Lily Eibert, and Caryn Mason received the school’s Partner in Education Award.

“These wonderful ladies put in endless hours of service for our school,” Ojeda said.

This year, the community club board members planned and organized numerous school events including a successful booster drive that raised over $65,000 to provide technology, teacher intervention, curriculum books, and other valuable student resources.

“You have led with passion and enthusiasm, and as a result, you have made Suzanne a better place for our students!”

PHOTO BY: WVUSD
Board President Tony Torng presents Partner in Education Award to Suzanne Middle School parents Sonal Choksey, Lily Eibert, and Caryn Mason.291329

Eastvale City Council Recap

By Tiana Goegebuer

Eastvale – The February 22nd City Council Meeting was attended by Council Members Rigby, Rush, and Plott, as well as Mayor Pro Tem Lorimore and Mayor Tessari. The invocation was led by Pastor Ed Moreno from New Day Christian Church, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Pro Tem Lorimore. After a moment of silence to honor the fallen Police Officer from the City of Whittier, the Council moved into a Closed Session.

In the Presentations/Announcements portion of the meeting, Mayor Tessari invited Captain Rossi from Fire Station 31 to accept the Safely Surrender Baby Month proclamation. The Council then moved Item 10 on the Agenda, the City Manager’s Report, to this portion of the meeting.

Next, the meeting progressed to the Public Comments section, a resident stated his concerns about birthing homes in Eastvale, to which the Council responded by saying that since the issue is currently part of an ongoing investigation, not much information could be given without harming the pursuit.

The Consent Calendar was discussed next, and all Items were passed 5-0.

In the City Council Business section, Item 9.1 involved Richard Wall being sworn in to the Public Safety Commission. Item 9.2, an Investment Portfolio Update was approved 5-0. Item 9.3, Solar Powered Receptacles Project Overview and Approval of Memorandum of Understanding Senior Administrative Analyst Rodriguez was continued to a later meeting. Item 9.4, Pavement Management System Update was approved 5-0. Item 9.5, Draft Truck Route Study Update was approved 5-0. For Item 9.6 , the Appointment of Ad-Hoc Committee, the Council voted 5-0 to appoint an ad-hoc committee comprised of two planning and two public safety commissioners with alternates, plus two community members selected by City Staff.

The meeting adjourned with closing statements by the Council and City Staff. ■

When We Are Drowning In Our Blessings

EV - Mark LeeBy Pastor Mark Lee

Last month, California’s prayers were answered.  After years of water shortages and dry weather, the sky opened up and rain began to fall.  And fall.  Within weeks, approximately 80% of the state’s historic drought had ended.  Californians, however, soon found themselves drowning in their blessings.  As the soil became saturated and the streets flooded, many people grew frustrated with the very thing they had asked God to send.

Being unappreciative of God’s gifts is not unusual.  Just take a look at our daily lives.  We yearn for children, but lament the active toddler or trying teenager.  We ask God for shelter, but despise the never-ending housework. We pray for a steady paycheck, but can’t stand our co-workers.  From the beloved spouse we argue with to the dinner we don’t want to cook, we often have a tendency to take life’s blessings for granted.

Much has been said about the need to have an “attitude of gratitude.”  And honestly, who doesn’t want to be grateful for everything they have?  Unfortunately, it is easy to lose sight of the positive when faced with the negative.  No matter how hard we try to fight them off, bad thoughts can creep in.  Because of this, we need to intentionally find something to be thankful for in each situation we face – no matter how bad it is.

Colossians 3:17 says, “And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”  The next time you are frustrated while cleaning the toilet or sitting in traffic, remember that many of these circumstances are the result of your answered prayers.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 8 a.m., 9:15 a.m., and 11 a.m.

Straight Talk With Danice

Dealing With A Breakup

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D

 

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi,

I recently suffered a terrible break up.  I didn’t want my family to see me crying all the time so I started taking long walks.  My walks soon turned into running and I have now lost 23 pounds.  Now everyone is asking me if I’m suffering from an eating disorder and wondering if I’m depressed.  I do look a little under weight, but this is what I need to do right now.  I don’t want to talk about the details of my break up because it is too painful for me.  I just want to run.  I want to avoid socializing right now.  How can I briefly explain myself so people will leave me alone?

-Y. P.

 

Dear Y. P.

It seems to me that you have found a healthy way to work through your pain and suffering.  In my opinion you are on the right track and you do not owe anyone an explanation about how you are managing your emotions.   As for your well meaning and sincere loved ones, tell them exactly what you told me.  When you feel up to talking, tell them that you are processing your suffering with exercise and that you are not willing to have long conversations about your breakup.  Well meaning people will respect your request.  However, if you find yourself unable to truly digest your difficult experience in a reasonable amount of time, please seek the guidance of a skilled coach or therapist for a bit of additional assistance. Good Luck, and keep safe.

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

Chino Hills Family Begins Clothing Line

Photo by: Marissa Mitchell

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino Hills – This year, a whole new era of sports media and paraphernalia is emerging in the form of Big Baller Brand clothing and apparel line.

LaVar Ball, father of  basketball prodigies Lonzo Ball (now at UCLA), LiAngelo, and LaMelo Ball (both at Chino Hills High), has turned the sports branding world upside down through the creation of this “triple-B” brand. LaVar currently runs the business as a “family business”…but it won’t stay that way for long.

Most known for his bold statements in the media (such as his statement that his son could outplay Steph Curry, or that he himself could beat Michael Jordan one-on-one), LaVar is more “infamous” than famous at this point in time. Nonetheless, the superb athleticism of his sons is undisputed, especially with his son Lonzo leading the UCLA team, so far victoriously, through the NCAA championship.

Unlike LeBron James, who signed a $90 million dollar deal before the 2003 NBA draft, Lonzo Ball will own a portion of his own brand. “[James doesn’t] have a brand—that’s a brand that Nike created,” LaVar stated. “Try to go somewhere with that King sign and take it from Nike. You can’t do that. These triple B’s? They’re mine.”

And this is true. Not only that, but Big Baller Brand has broken new ground, perhaps unwittingly, for student-athletes. Because UCLA conceded to LaVar, noting that while he used UCLA colors, it was a “family” operation, the NCAA has broken its strong hold on college athletes. The brand has begun in the same place LaVar trained his three fantastically talented sons: in his home. But sales have been increasing so rapidly, it’s been difficult to keep up with demand.

Such success does seem to pose a visible threat to big-name labels. In a recent interview, LaVar averred, “[Some labels are like] Blockbusters, and the Big Baller Brand is Netflix. And you know what happened to Blockbuster? If you don’t change, guess what’s going to happen. There’s a red box everywhere.”

There is no doubt we are seeing more “BBB” items out and about. Perhaps “big name labels” really do have something to worry about.

New Office For Walnut Hills Optometry

By Staff Reports

Walnut – Do you know WHO will care for your eyes? Great news! Walnut Hills Optometry is moving to a larger location, just one block away from old location. Starting on January 20 this new location will open its doors to satisfy all your optometry care needs.  For many years, Walnut Hills Optometry (WHO) has taken excellent care of the vision needs of the community, serving patients from Walnut, West Covina, Diamond Bar, and Chino Hills to patients from La Puente, Rowland Heights, Hacienda Heights and Whittier. Because of the quality of service provided, as well as the trusting care given by the doctor, patients travel from the Los Angeles and Inland Empire areas as well.

WHO considers vision to be a precious gift, and their office takes pride in providing comprehensive eye exams.

WHO believes that quality eye care involves consistent care by a professional.  Carmela Larino, O.D., and her loyal staff, will give your eyes the personalized care and attention they deserve.

Dr. Larino is proud to serve the community she grew up in.  She attended Rowland Unified schools from elementary through high school, and then attended U.C. Irvine before receiving her doctorate degree from the Southern California College of Optometry.  In 2003, Dr. Larino was honored at her alma mater – Nogales High School – when she was inducted onto their Wall of Fame.  She is a member of the American Optometric Association, the California Optometric Association, and the Rio Hondo Optometric Society, where she stays current on the latest in eye care.  As a local resident, you might find Dr. Larino eating at your favorite restaurant, shopping in a local store, or attending a community event.

WHO offers personalized eye examinations, diabetic and eye health exams, and the management and care of a multitude of eye and vision concerns.  A wide variety of eyewear is also available, from progressive and polarized lenses to silicone high-oxygen contacts, and even designer frames. They also offer Lasik Surgery co-management. If you have used eyeglass frames scattered around the house, bring them to the WHO offices and they will donate them to those in need of frames.

WHO is conveniently located near the 10, 60 and 57 freeways, on the border of Walnut and West Covina, at 18800 East Amar Road # A5, inside the Walnut West Plaza. Their hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  You can reach them at (626) 965-3878 or (909) 594-1153.  For more information visit their website at http://www.walnuthillsoptometry.com.

Walnut Hills Optometry thanks you for twenty years, follow them for twenty more!

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 3.25.17

Weekly News 3.25.17 Front pageThe Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: Weekly 3.25.17 Full PDF

Eastvale Native Provides Healthcare for U.S. Navy Sailors

By Kayla Good, Navy Office of Community Outreach

SAN DIEGO– A 2000 Jose Olaya High School in Peru graduate and Eastvale, California native is serving in the U.S. Navy at Naval Medical Center San Diego.

Petty Officer 3rd Class German Vargasdavila serves as a hospital corpsman at the San Diego based hospital. According to Navy officials, the hospital’s priority is to provide the safest, highest quality patient-centered medical care for veterans, service members and their families.

“The best part of my job is treating my patients,” said Vargasdavila. “I enjoy intereacting with people so this is a perfect job for me.”

The sailors who are part of Navy medicine are the most highly trained, educated and specialized force in history, said Navy officials. The role of Navy medicine in preserving the healthy and fighting readiness of that force has never been greater or more critical.

“Serving our nation’s warriors and their families is an honor, and our staff is dedicated to providing the existing best care possible,” said Capt. Joel Roos, Naval Medical Center San Diego Commanding Officer. “Our continuous training coupled with unparalleled innovation allow us to deliver exceptional care.”

Vargasdavila said he feels honored to be able to serve at a hospital that is continually raising the bar in health care.

“I like that I get to serve in San Diego,” said Vargasdavila. “This is a teaching hospital so I am able to learn more while serving here.”

Those who serve in Navy medicine understand that they play a key role in meeting the missions of the armed forces, according to Navy officials.

“When I first joined the Navy, the language barriers were a challenge,” added Vargasdavila. “Now that I am use to the enviornment, I know I have a purpose. I am fighting for freedom for my family and the country.”

 

 

Believe You Can and You Will

By Nancy Stoops

Just for a moment, think about your mindset regarding yourself.  What is your internal dialogue?  Do you tend to tell yourself you can, and so you do, or do you tell yourself you can’t so you don’t?  Also what is that mindset based on, and is it really your truth?  If you believe you can’t, think about all that you have already done successfully and learn to challenge that lies that hold you hostage.  I bet you are much more capable then your mind tells you.  Take out a piece of paper and fold it in half. Write down all of the lies that hold you hostage.  Now, on the other side, right down your truths based what you have already done successfully.  Next, make as many copies of this paper as you can, and take it with you everywhere. If you are able to, place them all over your house.  Next time you believe you can’t, the truth that you yourself have written down will remind you that you are already have been successful.  Pretty soon, you will be storing the truth in your mind.

Learn to challenge the incorrect belief system that has always held you back from being who you are intended to be.  The truth literally does set us free.  I was raised to believe I could fly.  This mindset has honored me with a life of blessings and success.  Learn to believe in yourself and in your capabilities. The truth is if you believe you can do something and work hard to accomplish it, anything is possible.  Believe you can and you will.  Our mindset literally is a road map for our lives.  Our mindset acts as a designer for our entire lives.  I hope you will take the time to change your mindset and take the opportunity to grow into the best version of you.

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Nancy is now accepting new clients.  She also works as a motivational speaker.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens and can handle many court mandated needs.  For more information about any of these services contact Nancy at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com

New Life

EV - Tim EatonBy Pastor Tim Eaton

Easter has become synonymous with spring.  It’s a time of new life.  Just look at every hill and mountain you can see from our city.  An abundance of rain this winter has brought new green growth everywhere.  It seems miraculous that these once brown-with-death hills are covered in the lushness of life.  It reminds us where Easter and spring got connected.  In the spring new plants sprout to life, and animals awake from their slumber, but on Easter Jesus literally came back to life.

Perhaps you have experienced a time of winter in your own life.  It may not have been marked with cloudy skies, or wet and cold days.  Perhaps it simply seemed a dark cloud was following you.  Maybe you wished you could hibernate like a bear and wait for troubles to pass.  If that sounds familiar, the wonderful news is that Easter ISN’T a season.  It’s a PROMISE!  A promise of new and everlasting life.

The apostle Paul summed it up like this: “For what I received I passed on to you as of first importance: that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures, 4 that he was buried, that he was raised on the third day (1 Corinthians 15:3-4).”  Wow!  Life where there had only been death before.  Now that’s something to celebrate!

This promise of new life is simply signified by the tradition of an egg hunt (little signs of life!).  Join us for a free Egg Hunt Saturday, April 1st, at 10am.  It all takes place at American Heroes Park.

Edgewater Lutheran Church meets Sundays at 10am at Harada Elementary, 12884 Oakdale Street., Eastvale, CA  92880. www.EdgewaterEastvale.org

 

Straight Talk With Danice

Dear Readers:

When you hear the word, “hormone,” what comes to mind?  Do you have thoughts of a boy or girl going through puberty, or a woman going through menopause?  Do you think of your grouchy girlfriend who has PMS or an older man who has lost his spark?   Hormones play a big role in a man’s life, too.  As men age, they experience andropause, which is the male equivalent to menopause in women.

Whether you are male or female, young or old, if you are suffering from symptoms of hormonal imbalance, visit your doctor and have your hormone levels checked.  Bringing your system into balance can have a positive effect on your health.  Do a bit of research so you understand all the various options.   Bio identical hormone replacement is an interesting subject.  There is a vast array of information available on the Internet.

Danice Akiyoshi, ND

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.

Former K-Mart Center Gets Renovated

IMG_6615

Photo by: Michael Armijo, Construction is under way for a new shopping center where K-Mart once stood. Ross and Sprouts Market are expected to open by Dec. 2017.

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.

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.

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.

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.”

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

History 101

Photo courtesy of: Google images

Alcatraz Closes Its Doors

By History.com

On March 21, 1963 Alcatraz Prison in San Francisco Bay closes down and transfers its last prisoners. At it’s peak period of use in 1950s, “The Rock”, or “America’s Devil Island” housed over 200 inmates at the maximum-security facility. Alcatraz remains an icon of American prisons for its harsh conditions and record for being inescapable.

The twelve-acre rocky island, one and a half miles from San Francisco, featured the most advanced security of the time. Some of the first metal detectors were used at Alcatraz. Strict rules were enforced against the unfortunate inmates who had to do time at Alcatraz. Nearly complete silence was mandated at all times.

Alcatraz was first explored by Juan Manuel de Ayala in 1775, who called it Isla de los Alcatraces (Pelicans) because of all the birds that lived there. It was sold in 1849 to the U.S. government. The first lighthouse in California was on Alcatraz. It became a Civil War fort and then a military prison in 1907.

The end of its prison days did not end the Alcatraz saga. In March 1964, a group of Sioux claimed that the island belonged to them due to a 100-year-old treaty. Their claims were ignored until November 1969 when a group of eighty-nine Native Americans representing the American Indian Movement (AIM) occupied the island. They stayed there until 1971 when AIM was finally forced off the island by federal authorities.

The following year, Alcatraz was added to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It is now open for tourism.

CSU Trustees Vote to Increase Tuition by 5%

By Marissa Mitchell

In spite of widespread protests from students and elected officials alike, on Wednesday the California State University Board of Trustees voted to raise tuition by another 5%, beginning next school year, to address the shortfall of state funding.

The vote was a close one: 11-8. Among those opposing the passing of this new measure were Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, as well as the states schools superintendent Tom Torlakson, all of whom, it should be noted, formerly served on the board.

The Board of Trustees pass the following two amendments: 1) to rescind the hike in fees should enough state money be provided and 2) requiring reports over the next two years describing how the increased monies are spent.

Under this plan, the annual in-state tuition would increase from $5,472 to $5,742 – a total hike of $270. In addition, a similar increase is proposed for non-resident tuition, as well as increases in graduate, doctoral, and even teacher credential programs. This is estimated to generate $77.5 million in the 2017-18 school year.

Upon passage, CSU Chancellor Timothy White declared, “I don’t bring this forward with an ounce of joy. I bring it out of necessity.” The statement was accompanied with audience-wide booing.

Many students insist that they cannot afford their tuition fees as is, let alone a price increase, and many chanted, “The more we pay, the longer we stay.” Thus, students expressed it is only through working that they are able to obtain any money for schooling. Yet, to many board members, there seems to have been no other way of addressing deficits beyond their control.

Out-of-state UC students will pay the same increases in tuition and fees, along with another $1,332 jump in supplemental tuition, which will increase to $28,014. For non-resident students, the increase will be $1,668.

Eastvale Families Sue For Crash On Pine; City Allocates $250,000 For Defense

By Michael Armijo

Chino –The City of Chino has allocated $250,000 to defend itself from a lawsuit for a fiery crash on Pine Avenue that occurred in Oct. of 2014.

The accident, which took place on the 7600 block of Pine Avenue near the California Institute for Women near the Meadow Square Apartments, took the lives of three teenagers who lived in the neighboring city of Eastvale.

The families of the three people killed filed the suit in Dec. 2015 citing that the city allowed dangerous conditions on Pine Avenue that resulted in the crash. Of the many allegations, the families claimed the city failed to warn drivers of the dangerous conditions and failed to maintain a safe shoulder or clear zone near the curve.

The first $100,000 was authorized by in June last year. The additional $150,000 was approved last month. According to local reports the funds will be used to create a defense for the rest of the year.

The suit filed by the families did not ask for a specific amount for damages for the deaths of Andrew Deleon, Alex Horta, and Nathan Dominguez, all 19 years of age from Eastvale. The three were in a 2000 Chevy pickup traveling westbound on Pine when it crossed into oncoming traffic and collided with a 2013 Honda Accord traveling the opposite way.

A Beautiful Drive

By Pastor Mark Hopper

The recent rains in Southern California have promoted a lot of interesting conversations.  People who enjoy winter sports have loved the record amount of snow fall.  Recently, I heard someone say that ski resorts may remain open until the 4th of July!

The rains have produced lush green hillsides in our communities.  Since we live in an arid environment, we expect to see hillsides that are brown and barren.  But not this year.  The hills are covered with lush, dark green grass and other vegetation.

One of the unexpected results of our recent rain are the beautiful wild flowers that are covering the desert landscape.  I have heard in the news that places Palm Spings and Borego Springs are covered with wild flowers.

Last week my son and I drove to Arizona during his spring break.  We wanted to see a Major League Baseball spring training game.  As we drove across the California and Arizona desert we were amazed to see beautiful wild flowers.

The highways were lined with bright yellow flowers and many hillsides were also covered, too.  The hillsides that faced South seemed to have an abundance of flowers of every color.

Who would expect to see this kind of beauty in the middle of the dessert?  How can you explain that a desert could produce this kind of abundant beauty?

A familiar phrase says, “April showers bring May flowers.”  But this year I think we could say that “Winter showers bring indescribable color to unexpected places.”  Not only are the hills alive with color, but so is the barren desert too!

Let me encourage you to take a ride and see this remarkable beauty before it is too late.  Why not visit a desert near you this week and see the beauty that is the product of our abundant rainfall this year.

You will be glad you did!

Efree Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd. (909) 594-7604. Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM. Efreedb.org 

Soul Food

EV - Rob NorrisOh, how I love your teachings! I talk about them all the time. Psalm 119:97

By Rob Norris

We’re all familiar with the nutritional listings on food and beverage packages. Most of us are interested in total calories per serving, especially calories coming from good or bad fat, as well as readings on carbohydrates, sugar and sodium. But while these government-regulated fact lists work well for food required by our physical body, what if a similar kind of list were available to help us evaluate the spiritual content of the products we consume?

What if every TV program, magazine, book, DVD or CD revealed the “recommended daily allowance” of the spiritual necessities it provided–things like holiness, truth, forgiveness, perseverance, grace, justice and repentance? How many of them, rather than supplying anything we need, would be shown to actually deplete us, stripping away whatever spiritual health we already have?

But there is one product–the Bible–that is guaranteed to provide everyone in your family with the perfect blend of spiritual nourishment. Whether packaged in cheap paper or top-grain leather, the Bible comes complete with “everything required for life and godliness” (2 Peter 1:3, NIV).

Although most Christians today express a deep fondness for the Scriptures, they are apparently failing to feast on it. Noted researcher George Barna has reported that fewer than 4 in 10 Christians read the Bible on their own even once in a typical week. A survey conducted in churches throughout the United States found that two-thirds of couples read or discussed the Bible together but only occasionally.

If you want a spiritually healthy family, you must make sure that each member consumes a healthy diet of the everlasting Word of God. It’s the difference between a healthy spiritual life and lifelessness.

Live it:
What distractions are keeping the Bible central in your family’s life? What are we saying when we let other things take prominence over the Scriptures?

Pray:

Pray for daily consumption of the Word, it’s food for the soul.

 

Meeting @ 10:00 at River Heights Intermediate School 7227 Scholar Way, Eastvale CA.

Trusting and believing with you

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 3.18.17

Weekly News 3.18.17 Front PageThe Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: OurWeeklyNews Full PDF 3.18.17

$30,000 Reward Offered For Diamond Bar Couples Murders

Cover-diamond-bar-stabbings1

Photo by: CBS

By Michael Armijo

Diamond Bar – Supervisor Janice Hahn announced last Wednesday a reward of $20,000 for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the person(s) responsible for a Diamond Bar couple’s murder. In addition, the City of Diamond Bar approved an additional $10,000 reward, totaling $30,000 in reward money.

On October 20, 2016, a family friend visited the home of a senior couple, in the 3300 block of Bent Twig Lane, Diamond Bar, to check on them. The couples’ family, who were unable to reach them, asked the friend to check on the couple.
The husband and wife team, who operated a studio out of their home and taught art lessons were discovered deceased in their home.

Cheng Long Wang, 60, and Mei Chu Chung, 57, were pronounced dead at the scene from multiple stab wounds.
The $20,000 reward was approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors earlier this month, and the city of Diamond Bar approved a $10,000 reward thereafter.

According to a press release issued by the LA County Sheriff’s Department, both Cheng Long Wang, known as David, and Mei Chu Chung, known as Marian, emigrated from Taiwan in the year 2000.

“They were creative and well-respected within their community, and in an instant, the home which this gentle couple shared with others as a place to learn and be creative was turned into a crime scene where they were brutally attacked, stabbed to death and likely robbed,” the statement read.
At a press conference held at the Hall of Justice, the Homicide Bureau unit commander, Captain Steve Katz, introduced one of the couple’s children, Dr. Gary Wang.  Dr. Wang explained how difficult the loss of his parents has been –not just for him and his sister, but for his 4-year-old daughter.  He revealed how his little girl missed video chats with grandma and cried at night for her grandparents; and relayed how he had to put their death in terms she could understand by explaining that grandma and grandpa “went to heaven.”
Dr. Wang made an emotional plea to the public, asking them to provide any information which may help solve the murder of his parents, for their justice, the release said.
“This couple were married for 30 years and were the classic example of an American success story,” Sheriff McDonald said.  He recognized the retired couple for having raised a successful family, as evidenced by their children who both became doctors, and for having dedicated time to their community by offering art lessons in their home.
Supervisor Janice Hahn, 4th District, thanked Sheriff McDonnell, Captain Katz and the Homicide Bureau detectives for their hard work on this investigation.  In an effort to encourage witnesses to step forward, she announced a monetary reward approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.  The reward of $20,000 was offered in exchange for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the couple’s murder.
Captain Katz presented a second monetary reward which was approved by the city of Diamond Bar for $10,000, offered in addition to the Board of Supervisors’ reward offer.
If you have any information about this case, please call the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500.

 

What Does 4% Over 6% Mean?

gil-rivera-sell-your-casa

Gil Rivera offers a 4% Total Commission for Sellers. His current promotion is “We will SELL your house in 6 weeks at highest value!” For more information, go to sellyourcasa.com or call (909) 967-4525. Call today for a free market evaluation.

By Sarah Sanchez

Southern California – What does 4% opposed to 6% really mean? If you’re selling your home, you’ll pay a 6% commission to the realtors. But with Gil Rivera from SellYourCasa.com you’ll only pay 4% for the SAME AMOUNT OF WORK! So if your home sells for $500,000, at 6% you’ll fork over $30,000 for commission. With Gil Rivera you’ll only pay $20,000 for both realtors to split. That’s a savings of $10,000!!

Rivera’s Sellers love the fact that he offers a discounted commission, but with full service.  Rivera’s offer of 4% Total Commission for Sellers includes 2.5% to the Buyer’s Agent and 1.5% to Rivera’s office.  Most Realtors negotiate a 6% commission because they have to split the fees with their brokerage. But, as Rivera is the Broker, he passes on the savings to the Seller. This will save Sellers thousands of dollars in commission fees.  His team offers full service for that discounted rate including high quality flyers, professional photos, open houses (as allowable by Seller), and extended advertising coverage on the Internet and social media.

Now, more about what you’re getting from Gil Rivera at SellYourCasa.com: It’s important to know all aspects of your business.  For Gil Rivera from SellYourCasa.com, he absolutely knows every aspect of buying and selling a home.  He is a reliable, experienced, and an affordable Realtor, Broker, and Certified Appraiser.

Rivera sells houses, condos, and two to four unit investment properties in Riverside, San Bernardino, Los Angeles, and Orange counties. He just recently sold another home in Eastvale last month. He also does real estate appraisals for banks, estates, trusts, divorces, attorneys, refinances, home purchases, and probate/inheritance for tax purposes. In addition, Rivera has assistants that work with him who are fluent in Spanish and Chinese, helping to reach people of different dialects all over Southern California.

Rivera’s philosophy is to “treat my clients the way I want to be treated.” In fact, Rivera said that he became a Realtor because he did not like the way his Realtor treated him when he was buying his home. Rivera shows respect for his clients at all times. He listens to what they say, so that he can better serve them.

Rivera also does not push his Buyers into a sale. Rivera said, “I always tell Buyers: ‘You will know right away when we walk into the house that’s meant for you’.  Whether it takes a week or months, my Buyers will always be satisfied with their purchase and never pressured into it.”

Rivera’s current promotion is, “We will SELL your house in four weeks at highest value! We only request a listing period of four weeks, while most other Realtors ask for a six month listing.” Rivera says that “Buyers need to know that they do not need to pay their Realtor any fees for representing them on a purchase. The Buyer’s agent is paid by the Seller, not the Buyer.

Check out Rivera’s website at http://www.SellYourCasa.com to see how many different cities Rivera has sold in and for additional information about his company. You can also call the toll free number at (877) 888-SOLD (7653), or cell phone number (909) 967-4525. He also currently has large freeway billboard signs throughout the San Gabriel Valley and Inland Empire.Call today for a free market evaluation.