SBC Sheriff Celebrates New Training Center

Photo Courtesy of S.B.C.S.

Photo Courtesy of S.B.C.S.
SB County Sheriff John McMahon cuts the ceremonial red ribbon at the grand re-opening of the Frank Bland Regional Training Center in Devore on Oct. 22.

By Monique Valadez

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY – The San Bernardino County Sheriff Department officially unveiled its new, expanded training center Thursday, Oct. 22 at a dedication ceremony led by Sheriff John McMahon.

The Frank Bland Regional Training Center in Devore is a completely new building, having been rebuilt on the spot where their old center stood last August before it was demolished. The new facility expanded to a 4,000-square-foot administrative building that includes training classrooms with upgraded tech tools.
“The improvements symbolize many great things: the legacy of those whose vision we carried, tremendous support and collaboration between the CEO, County Board of Supervisors, and the Sheriff’s Department; and our commitment to providing quality service to our communities by enhancing our capacity to deliver professional training,” said Sheriff Captain Darren Goodman.

According to sheriff officials, training staff now has office space necessary to conduct their daily administrative tasks in close proximity of the classrooms and have a view of the physical training field. Classrooms were increased to provide additional space for larger academy classes with state of the art digital technology to deliver one of the state’s top recognized training academies.

Providing basic training for new recruits since 1973, the new center is already taking full advantage of its new digs. As of Oct. 5, the 200th academy began with recruits who will receive 26 weeks of training.

The new center brings additional space for larger academy classes for aspiring sheriffs throughout the state, boasting an average of 300 graduates each year in the academy programs.

“Our basic academy is one of few “intensive delivery” programs still operating in the state,” sheriff officials said. “We believe the emphasis on discipline, stress and real-world scenarios helps develop a well-rounded officer, better prepared to handle the challenges of a law enforcement career.”
In addition to the administrative building and classroom upgrades, several improvements were made to the firearms ranges.

“Our high standards, professionalism, and commitment to excellence contribute to the constant demand for training our facility receives from agencies throughout the county and state,” sheriff officials state in a press release.

The 800-acre training center also holds an eight-mile Emergency Vehicle Operations Center, one of the largest outdoor ranges in the region. Five 50-yard ranges, a Trap and Skeet range, and a 300-yard rifle range for multiple firearms training.
“From constantly seeking the most relevant and useful tactics, to the newest state of the art technology, the Training Center’s mission will always be to prepare today’s officers for tomorrow’s challenges,” Goodman added.

Don’t Fall for ‘Slick Rick’ Phone Scammers

By Monique Valadez

CHINO-Last week I was contacted on my cell phone by an “unavailable” number. I hesitated answering it but thought perhaps it was an important call about my son. So I answered it.  Little did I know that those brief three minutes taught me a valuable lesson about phone and cyber scammers.

I noticed a few red flags such as using generic terms when describing information such as “your computer”. What if I didn’t even have a computer? He also didn’t claim any company.

So I decided to play along. “We are getting emails from your computer that you have a virus,” he pressed on.

I told him that I was at work and I did not have access to my laptop. This response immediately changed his tone with me. He asked when I would be able to get in front of my laptop. “Who does this guy think he is, ‘SlickRick,” I thought.

After a couple attempts to figure out a good time to call me back, the man thanked me for my time and hung up the phone. These scammers are clever and easily convince anyone into thinking there is an obvious issue with their computer.

Scams come in all shapes and sizes. According to Microsoft, scammers don’t just make phone calls they also send fraudulent email messages and set up fake websites. They might offer to help solve your computer problems or sell you a software license. Once they have access to your computer, they can do the following:

  • Trick you into installing malicious software that could capture sensitive data, such as online banking user names and passwords. They might also then charge you to remove this software.
  • Convince you to visit legitimate websites (like http://www.ammyy.com) to download software that will allow them to take control of your computer remotely and adjust settings to leave your computer vulnerable.
  • Request credit card information so they can bill you for phony services.
  • Direct you to fraudulent websites and ask you to enter credit card and other personal or financial information there.

Protect yourself by knowing the facts. Don’t fall victim to ‘Slick Rick’ and his bandits. If it sounds suspicious, hang up. If it looks suspicious don’t open it. When in doubt, take it to an expert.

Straight Talk With Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

 

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

My niece is having her wedding on a cruise ship. Over 20 people from our family are invited to join them on this cruise.  My niece asked me if I would book the largest stateroom so I can babysit the youngest kids who aren’t old enough for the kids club.  This way, everyone is free to drink and go to the casino late at night.  I don’t drink or gamble very often, but that doesn’t mean I want the task of nightly babysitting.  I want to have fun, too. Now I’m not looking forward to the trip at all.  I would feel guilty if I cancelled.  I already said I would go, and everyone just assumes I will babysit because I’m not as wild as they are.  I feel like I’m not really a guest at all.  What should I do?

-Auntie M.

 

Dear Auntie:

It’s time for a family meeting.  Explain that you look forward to doing your part with the youngest members of the family in the evenings.  Then present a schedule with the names of all the viable babysitters.  Assign a night to each capable party or couple.  They are free to switch and trade off if they like, but make it clear that you intend to enjoy yourself too, even if you don’t choose to drink and gamble.  Do not feel guilty when you resist being taken advantage of.  Have fun!

-Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

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.

Diamond Bar Senior Health Fair

Courtesy of City of Diamond Bar

DIAMOND BAR – The City of Diamond Bar is hosting its annual Health Fair & Flu Shot Clinic for adults age 55 and older on Thursday, Nov. 12 from 9 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. at the Diamond Bar Center.
Attendees will have a chance to visit with various health vendors and service providers with information and answers to questions regarding a variety of topics ranging from healthcare plans to senior living options. There will also be health screenings, demonstrations and giveaways, as well as free flu shots administered on a first-come, first-served basis by the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health.
Admission is free and open to the public; however, those wishing to receive a flu shot must pre-register by calling 909-839-7068 before the event date.  Diamond Bar Center is located at1600 Grand Avenue.

Chino: Local Teens Shape the Community

Photo courtesy of City of Chino City of Chino’s 2015-16 Teen Advisory Committee

Photo courtesy of City of Chino
City of Chino’s 2015-16 Teen Advisory Committee

By Monique Valadez

CHINO – A group of 11 teenagers from the Chino Valley have their own ideas on how to make their communities more attractive to young people, from the teen center to the new planned Liberty Courtyard.
These local high school students are more formally know as the city’s Teen Advisory Committee (TAC) want to have a voice in local government and bend the ears of elected city officials and other community leaders.
“The Teen Advisory Committee has not only given me a voice in my community, but it has also allowed me to meet other teens who care about the City of Chino and to help organize events that benefit the community,” Teen Advisory Committee Member Bridgette Rojas said.
The committee members serve in an advisory capacity to the Community Services Commission by providing input on teen issues as they relate to programs or projects in Chino, city officials said.
Leading the committee this year are Noemi Lemus, Chairperson; Natalie Camacho, Vice Chair; and Bella Ferriola, Secretary. The officers were elected by the members during their first meeting, which was held September 3, in the City of Chino Council Chambers.
This year, the TAC will be working with the Community Services Commission subcommittee for the construction of the Chino Liberty Courtyard. The courtyard is a planned monument that pays tribute to those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. Armed Forces. The courtyard will be located at the Carolyn Owens Community Building on B Street.
The teens will explore new ways to bring more awareness and increase participation to the Chino Experience Teen Center.
Additionally, the teens will take part in charitable projects including helping out the Chino Neighborhood House and the Chino Unified School District’s Care Closet.
Open positions are filled on an annual basis as the result of a competitive application process.
Returning members include: Natalie Camacho, Don Lugo High School; Daniel Contreras, Don Lugo High School; Mari Fierro, Don Lugo High School; Noemi Lemus, Don Lugo High School; Alexis Madrid, Don Lugo High School; and Bridgette Rojas, Don Lugo High School.
Newly appointed members are: Elizabeth Cazares, Don Lugo High School;
Edith Contreras, Don Lugo High School; Michelle Cruz, Don Lugo High School; Bella Ferriola, Ayala High School; and Nicholas Sanchez, Don Lugo High School.
TAC meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month, September through May, at 7 p.m., in the City of Chino Council Chambers.

Arrests in False Bomb Threats at Two Corona High Schools

Staff Reports

CORONA – Corona Police have arrested a 17-year-old Lee V. Pollard High School student on suspicion of making two false bomb threats.

On Tuesday, Oct. 20, shortly after 12:07 p.m., the Corona teen called Pollard High School stating there was a bomb on campus. Shortly after the first call, the minor placed a second call stating the bomb would go off in five minutes.

The next day, Oct. 21, at about 2:40 p.m., the same teen placed a call to Corona High School stating that a bombs were placed at all exits and would go off when the final school bell rang.

In both incidents, high school resource officers and school personnel conducted a thorough search of the campus and were unable to locate any explosive devices.
“The Corona Police Department will continue to investigate bomb threats to their fullest extent, as these types of incidents instill fear in students, their parents, faculty, and our community,” said Public Information Officer Sergeant Paul Mercado. “These types of investigations draw significant amounts of public safety resources away from legitimate purposes. Those found to be engaged in making false bomb threats will be held accountable.”
The teen was arrested and taken to Riverside County Juvenile Hall for making false bomb threats and criminal terrorist threats.
The school district will also take disciplinary actions against the student.

“Our district will not tolerate this type of behavior,” said Michael G. Cobarrubias, Associate Superintendent Corona-Norco USD.

Feeling So Very Helpless

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

By Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T.

I work with so many parents of children and teens that are on probation. I see how frightened they are and how helpless they feel. One of the hardest times to get through, is when your child makes a mistake and becomes part of the system.

I see the parents having such mixed emotions of anger, disappointment, sadness, fear, embarrassment and many other emotions as well. I don’t think anybody likes to admit their child has made a mistake and has disappointed them. I think it must be very hard to have to go to parenting classes because the court makes that part of your child’s probation. Also, if your child can’t drive you must take them to counseling, community service, probation appointments, and drug and alcohol classes and so on.  I think for many parents, it must feel as if they are on probation as well.

The truth is I have done a lot of work with the department of juvenile probation and the juvenile court system.  I see the probation officials and the juvenile court officials working very hard to give the children and teens a second chance.  These officials want them to learn from their mistakes but seem to work really hard to not lock people up, that can be rehabilitated.  I have great respect for these officials and for the families that get through this life changing experience. I also believe that a child or a teen can really grow, change and become a better person from this very difficult experience.

My heart goes out to you if you are experiencing the helpless feeling I am writing about.  Take advantage of the positive changes that can occur from this hard experience.  Use probation, as a tool to help make yours’ a closer and more loving family!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909)229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net.

Mt. SAC Breaks Ground on $46M Business Tech Center

Photo Courtesy of Mt. SAC

Photo Courtesy of Mt. SAC
Mt. San Antonio College’s Board of Trustees’ dig in for their ground breaking ceremony held on Thursday, Oct. 22 where their new Business and Computer Complex will be built.

By Monique Valadez

WALNUT– Mt. San Antonio College in Walnut formally broke ground on its new business and computer complex Oct. 22.

Designed to fulfill the academic needs of the school’s business and computer technology programs and other programs well into the 21st century, the 87,000-square-foot complex will comprise three buildings including new technology-based classrooms, lab-based learning environments and a student-run restaurant.

“This is going to be a state-of-the-art complex that will consolidate our business and computer programs in one central area,” said Mt. SAC Business Dean Jennifer Galbraith.

The new complex, located south of the tennis courts and west of the Language Center, building 66, will bring much-needed space for a wide range of programs including paralegal studies, accounting, computer information systems, office technology, culinary arts, hospitality management and interior design.

The three-building complex will also feature the Language Learning Center and computer security lab.

In addition, a lobby will be added to the west side of building 66 to connect this building to the rest of the campus through a new pedestrian path.

The new complex is expected to cost $46 million by completion in the spring of 2018, college officials said. Construction begins in December. Half of the project is funded through Measure RR, Mt. SAC’s $353-million facilities bond approved by voters in 2008.

Measure R and Measure RR has brought an influx in construction to the campus. A $16.6 million Student Success Center opens in 2016 and $14.7 million food service center opens in December.
Several complaints have been arriving on the Walnut city council’s desks regarding the campus’ growth. Residents along with city officials filed a lawsuit on construction of a $48 million five-level parking garage earlier this year.
A $3.8 million solar-power project was recently approved by the college’s board members but some locals say the “solar farm” project would cause traffic congestion and would be an eyesore. College officials say that the project could save the campus nearly half a million dollars in energy costs annually.

Photo courtesy: Mt. SAC Artist rendering of the new business and computer complex.

Photo courtesy: Mt. SAC
Artist rendering of the new business and computer complex.

From House to Home at Kitchen & Flooring Center

Kitchen & Flooring Center, Inc. is located at 20875 Golden Springs Drive in Diamond Bar. They can be reached at (909) 594-5020, or visit www.kitchennflooring.com.

Kitchen & Flooring Center, Inc. is located at 20875 Golden Springs Drive in Diamond Bar. They can be reached at (909) 594-5020, or visit http://www.kitchennflooring.com.

Staff Reports

Expecting a house full of out-of-town guests this holiday season? Show off your remodeled home with the help of Kitchen & Flooring Center, Inc. They take care of everything from A to Z just in time for the holidays.

More than just a house, your home is a very special place. With that in mind, Kitchen & Flooring Center is committed to providing you with the materials and installation you need to make your home the best it can be. They work with you to come up with a plan that fits your budget and your vision.

From full kitchen and bathroom remodeling to any type of flooring, Kitchen & Flooring Center truly does it all.  And it’s not just limited to remodeling; they also install all types of countertops, and provide plumbing, electrical, and lighting services, as well as windows, doors and painting…A to Z, floor to ceiling.

Kitchen & Flooring Center has been in business since 1992, and since that time they have evolved into a highly specialized company that focuses not only on the quality and professionalism of their workmanship, but on making sure that their customers are 100 percent satisfied.  Their goal is to provide a finished product that not only meets, but exceeds, their customers’ expectations.

Kitchen & Flooring Center provides free in-home consultations to help you discover the home of your dreams.

All workmanship is guaranteed for up to a year, and they even have payment plans available.

Call Kitchen & Flooring Center today, and turn your house from ordinary to extraordinary.  Their goal is to provide you the absolute BEST service in the industry. They guarantee it!

Visit the showroom at Kitchen & Flooring Center, located at 20875 Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar.  They can be reached at (909) 594-5020, or visit www.kitchennflooring.com.

Diamond Bar: The Skin Of Our Teeth

Thorton Wilder’s Pulitzer Prize-Winning Play Makes Its Way to DBHS Stage

 

Courtesy of Diamond Bar High School Drama Department
DIAMOND BAR –The Diamond Bar High School Theatre Company begins its fall season with a performance of Thornton Wilder’s play The Skin of Our Teeth in the DBHS Theatre, with show times at November 6, 7, 13 & 14 at 7 p.m. Pre-sale tickets are $11 for adults and $9 for students; at the door adult tickets are $14 and students are $12. Tickets are available online at seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama.

Written immediately after the attack on Pearl Harbor, The Skin of Our Teeth is an allegory dealing with themes of human nature, human struggle, and humanity’s search for higher purpose and meaning in times of turbulence. The story follows the trials and tribulations faced by the Antrobuses, a sort of “Everyman Family,” whose members are archetypes found throughout human societies. Though the story is imbued with the concerns of America at the inception of its involvement in WWII and allusions to biblical characters, its themes of recurring violence and the effects of hedonistic lack of concern with the consequences of humanity’s actions speak to the current concerns of modern audiences in the turbulent beginnings of the 21st century.   The audience’s glimpse into the lives of the Antrobus family and their struggle for survival in a world on the precipice of ending, gives insight into the boldness and resilience of the human spirit.  Wilder’s play sees humanity as Phoenix-like ever rising from the ashes and never giving up hope for a better future.  Though the play deals with heavy themes, its anachronistic self-referential, theatrical approach is still fresh and packed with very funny moments.

Advanced Theatre Arts students at Diamond Bar High School work in a company structure to create and produce all aspects of their shows from design, to set construction, to publicity and performance.  Students are working hard to achieve high production values since this is the first time that a DBHS production has been submitted for adjudication by the California Educational Theatre Association.  The production will highlight the play’s theatricality by featuring several elements of audience participation that seek to immerse the audience into the drama and make them part of the creative process.

Celebrated playwright, Paula Vogel, has written, “For an American dramatist, all roads lead back to Thornton Wilder…The Skin of Our Teeth was a remarkable gift to an America entrenched in catastrophe, a tribute to the trait of human endurance.”

Gratitude

Dennis Morales X-ORIGBy Pastor Dennis Morales

“… in everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you….”  -1 Thessalonians 5:18

Gratitude is defined as the quality of being thankful; readiness to show appreciation. In other words, gratitude is the attitude of thankfulness. It goes deeper than just saying “thank you” or being “cheerful.”  Gratitude is living fulfilled.  Two men, Paul and Silas, had been falsely accused, beaten, and thrown into prison over the healing of a demon possessed girl (Acts 16).   Their first reaction wasn’t to call their lawyers or to complain to God. Instead they sang hymns and prayed. It was then an earthquake suddenly shook the prison, their chains were loosened, the cell doors then opened, and they were free.  Paul and Silas didn’t see their false imprisonment as a curse.  Their situation didn’t change the way they looked at God.
They knew the hope they had in Christ.  They saw this as an opportunity to worship God.
Why?  It’s because God is in control of all the circumstances surrounding our lives (Romans 8:28).
We also know that God loves us and is always looking out for our eternal benefit (2 Corinthians 4:17–18).  No doubt for some, this year has held much difficulty.  Know that God has given us a hope that does not disappoint (Romans 5:5).  He has assured us that there is future life with Him.  We know a different sustaining through difficulty.  It’s God, our “Strong Tower” (Proverbs 18:10) who sustains us.  We are assured that He and His favor is with us (Deuteronomy 31:6).  The thought of this truth brings fulfillment and gratitude that is lasting.  Thank you Lord.
Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., and Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale).  Visit their website at www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., and Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale).  Visit their website at www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Don’t Forget To Vote

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

For many communities, this is an “off” year in the election cycle.  But for some cities, there is an election on the first Tuesday in November.

My wife and I live in Diamond Bar.  We will be voting for new City Council members and for new School Board members.  We also have a bond measure for one of our school districts.

One of the ways you know it is an election season is the amount of flyers related to the election in your mail box.  There are also a number of election signs along the main streets in our city promoting a variety of candidates.

My criticism of the election signs is that people forget to remove them after the election is over.  I believe there are some regulations on the size and location of the signs, but there should be better ways to make sure they get removed after the voting is complete.

My criticism of the election materials that fill our mailboxes is that they can be misleading and misrepresent opposing candidates.

Recently there was a flyer in the mail with a photo of a candidate.  It was an unflattering picture and it was obvious that the flyer had been produced by the opposition. The flyer made some specific accusations regarding the candidate and urged voters to not vote for him.

I have several problems with this type of political material.

First, we should have a regulation that prohibits the use of an opposing candidate’s picture without their permission.

Everyone can find an unflattering photo of their opponent. Candidates should only be allowed to use photos of themselves and not their opponent.

Second, every flyer should include the names of the people who produced and paid for it.  The flyer that I received in the mail simply had a generic name of the sponsor and a post office box in another city.  It was paid for by “Citizens for a Better Community” or something like that.

My immediate question was, “Who are these people?  Who actually produced and paid for this mailing?”  People should be required to identify themselves personally and include a phone number and street address so you know exactly who sent out the flyer.

Third, I think there should be a time limit restricting when mailings can be sent.  I received the flyer late in the campaign.  It left little time for the opposing candidate to respond to the accusations leveled against him.  And, it left him with little time to provide a more positive photo of himself.

I hope that you will vote in the next election.  I hope you will take time to learn about each of the candidates and each ballot measure.  Read the material carefully.  Read the sample ballot, too.

Understand the issues and views of each candidate.

And, be discerning when you read the material you receive in the mail.  If it contains an unflattering photo and inflammatory accusations against another candidate, you may just want to toss it in the trash.

Many people are disillusioned and cynical about voting.  They are turned off by the negative campaigning and feel their vote doesn’t matter. But, do you know that there was a City Council election in Diamond Bar that ended in a tie?  The outcome was determined by a coin toss!  Every vote really does count!

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Ave. Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m. For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit http://www.efreedb.org.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 10.31.15

2015-Oct31-Weekly-COVERThe 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: 2015-Oct31-Weekly-WEB

Proud of Myself

By Michael Armijo

I remember closing my eyes, trying my hardest to embrace the way I felt. I wanted to burn into my memory the feeling of enchantment that overwhelmed me. I wanted the way I felt that evening to last a lifetime.

It wasn’t just dinner and cocktails with some co-workers. It wasn’t just a significant evening for someone special, a celebration of achievement. The evening meant more to me than it did to the person being honored. It was an evening in which I was proud to be included.

With my wife in my arms, I memorized the melody of the song as we slowly moved over the shiny, wooden dance floor.  A glance out of the window provided a beautiful view of the city.  A look around the room at people I respected and admired filled me with tremendous pride.  I will never forget how it felt to be present and included that night.

When I tried to recall the last time I felt this way, it took me back to the 7th Grade. I remember failing all my classes and my teacher, Miss Contreras, helped to change my perspective.  She told me that I deserved to be number one; that I deserved to be the best and to feel proud of myself.  What she said worked, because I found the path that led me to becoming Student of the Year, along with top grades and a place on the honor roll.

Unfortunately, that feeling was taken from me. Abuse and neglect took those happy moments from my life and traded them for sadness and pain.

Over the years I’ve worked hard to overcome those hard times and make a positive difference in the lives around me. Just as Miss Contreras did for me, I’ve tried to help people find their own path to personal worth, encouraging people to live the life of an achiever; showing people that it can be done.

Because of who I was and where I’ve been, helping others and making a positive contribution has always meant so much to me.  I’ve always dreamed of feeling the satisfaction of making a difference – without conditions or ulterior motives.  I’ve waited for the day that I knew my accomplishments were worthy of my intentions.

And that evening – an evening I will forever hold dear in my heart – I stood there with peers of mine whom I respected, with the woman I’ve loved for nearly 30 years, and I felt proud of my life.  With a tear in my eye, I realized I have made a difference in the lives around me.

And just as I felt when I won that 7th Grade Student of the Year award, I had earned a feeling that no one could ever take from me. I found the path to fulfillment for what I’ve done with my life, and realized it was okay to feel proud of myself.

Free Chino Workshop Offers Helpful Tax Tips

Staff Reports
CHINO– Advice on year-end tax tips and good tax resources for business owners will be the focus at the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center’s Nov. 3 workshop in Chino.

The three-hour instructor-led workshop walks business owners through the tax basics of owning and operating a business and provides instruction on how to complete a sales- and use-tax return. Topics discussed are preparing and filing a sales and use tax return, how to support and report exempt sales, what is involved with using a resale certificate, determining what is taxable and nontaxable labor, and how to maintain adequate records. This workshop is presented by the State of California Board of Equalization, District 2. The workshop will be from 9 a.m. to noon at the Carolyn Owens Community Center located at 13201 Central Ave., 2nd Floor. To register, contact Deirdre Marsac at 909-983-5005. The workshop is free and open to the public.

Diamond Bar City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

DIAMOND BAR – The Aug. 20 Diamond Bar City Council meeting began with an update from the City staff, announcing plans for a City clock on a street median on Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue.

The announcement was followed by a plethora of presentations, the first to Gary Miller upon his retirement from the US House of Representatives. Miller has resided in the same home since 1979. He was one of the first elected councilmembers for Diamond Bar, and even helped resident’s petition for cityhood.

Alex Lee was presented a Certificate of Recognition for being named Leo of the Year for his efforts in volunteer and humanitarian work with Diamond Bar High School’s Leo Club, which was also earned an Excellence Award for humanitarian efforts, fundraising, and volunteer efforts.

Next, October 2015 was proclaimed National Cyber Security Awareness Month, to spread awareness about the damaging effects of poor cyber security. Residents were encouraged to learn more about cyber security at www.stopthinkconnect.org, as poor cyber security can affect not only personal life, but also businesses.

Finally, there was a presentation on the importance of voting, and all eligible residents were encouraged to vote in the upcoming Nov. 3 election. People eligible to vote can register to vote and learn more about voting at www.lavote.net.

The City was then introduced to the new Los Angeles County Assistant Fire Chief, former Diamond Bar resident Jim Robinson. A report was then presented concerning the imminent El Niño season, and residents were warned of strong storms and the possibility for flooding. Residents were advised to clear out v-ditches, drains and rain gutters of debris; to check their roofs for leaks; and most importantly, have a Family Evacuation Plan in the case of flooding.

During the public comments, representatives from the Diamond Bar Public Library announced several events, such as: on Oct 24. at 2 p.m., Lisa See will be at the Diamond Bar Public Library to discuss her book, “China Dolls,” followed by a book signing; a workshop for toddlers on Oct. 28 at 11 a.m., allowing a fun time for parents to play with their children; and finally a Halloween Spooktacular Party with the Wacko Show, on Oct. 31 at 2 p.m.

Following the public comments, the schedules of future events was read as follows: the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting is on Oct. 22 at 7 p.m.; the Planning Commission meeting is on Oct. 27 at 7 p.m.; the Halloween Haunted House is on Oct. 30 and 31, from 6 to 9 p.m. at Heritage Park, 2900 S Brea Canyon Rd.; election day is on Nov. 3, and polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.; and the next City Council meeting is on Nov. 3 at 6:30 p.m.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including the Council minutes from Oct. 6, and a check register for $1,924,665.07.

The Council adjourned with plans to meet again on Nov. 3, at 6:30 p.m. at the APMD Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Dr.

San Bernardino Sheriff Makes a Child’s Wish to Fly Come True

Photo Courtesy of SB County Sheriff Dept.

Photo Courtesy of SB County Sheriff Dept.
Abigail, 12, is granted wish to fly in San Bernardino Sheriff Department’s 40King helicopter made possible by S.B. and Riverside Sheriffs’ and the Loma Linda Children’s Hospital based Debbie Chisholm Memorial Foundation.

Staff Reports
San Bernardino County – Twelve-year-old Abigail Snipes, who was born with a genetic nerve disorder that causes tumors, told her mother she dreamed about flying someday. On Oct. 21, Abigail’s wish was granted, thanks to the San Bernardino Sheriff Department’s Aviation Division and the Debbie Chisholm Memorial Foundation.
Abigail was born with neurofibromatosis, a genetic disorder of the nerves. Abigail and her family have spent most of her life in and out of hospitals. Recently, doctors told Abigail and her family that nothing can be done for her growing tumor and an operation would be too dangerous.
Abigail and her mother Angela arrived at the San Bernardino Airport where they were greeted by several members of the Sheriff Department. They were given a special tour of the Sheriff’s Aviation Division. Following the tour, Abigail was given some helpful instructions by sheriffs while getting strapped into the sheriff’s 40King helicopter.
Donning a big smile and helicopter helmet, Abigail’s wish to fly came true as the helicopter flew around the Inland Empire.
The tour and flight was made possible through the Debbie Chisholm Memorial Foundation (DCMF), the San Bernardino County Safety Employees Association (SEBA) and the Riverside Sheriffs’ Association (RSA).
DCMF, SEBA and RSA have worked together for over 15 years to grant wishes of catastrophically ill children throughout the Inland Empire. The charity is named after 12 year old Debbie Chisholm, the daughter of Riverside County Deputy Sheriff Fred Chisholm. After a very hard fight with brain cancer, Debbie died in February of 1994. DCMF has granted over 400 wishes of sick children and provided gifts to more than 3,000 pediatric cancer patients at Loma Linda University Children’s Hospital.

Walnut City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

Walnut – Mayor Pacheco began the Oct. 14 Walnut City Council meeting by recognizing the recently retired Assistant Chief Fire Director Dave Stone. The Council thanked Stone for his invaluable commitment and tireless work keeping Walnut safe, and wished him a happy and peaceful retirement.

Following the presentation, two ordinances were approved by the Council: one ordinance amended the City’s municipal code regarding purchase and sale of equipment and supplies; the other amended the City’s municipal code regarding the drawing of warrants. The amendments to the municipal code were a response to Councilmember Tragarz’s concern over the lack of checks and balances in the Council, as the City Attorney and City Manager were able to draw warrants without bringing the warrants before the Council.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including the minutes from the Sept. 23 City Council meeting; a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $1,094,204.78; a resolution to deny Verizon’s plans to construct a new wireless telecommunication facility; final tract maps for Francesca Senior Housing; awarding a bid of $46,980 for storm drain maintenance; a memorandum of understanding between the Los Angeles County and the City regarding the administration and cost sharing for a coordinated integrated monitoring program for the upper San Gabriel River watershed; and a request for formal bids for auditing services.

The Council also approved waiving all applicable City fees for the destruction and subsequent reconstruction of the San Jose Hills road walls located at 20648, 20630, 20624, and 20618 Loyalton Drive. The Council also discussed Mt. San Antonio College’s plans to construct a photovoltaic solar system, and how to cease construction on the site. Many residents expressed concern over the aesthetics and increased traffic on the intersection of Grand and Temple, and the Council agreed that action was necessary against the project.

Transformed

Pastor Ed Moreno

Pastor Ed Moreno

By Pastor Ed Moreno

I’ve been an avid movie goer for as long as I can remember, which is why it’s surprising even to me that I’ve never gone to see any of the “Transformer” movies; so I would not be someone who could comment on them.

I do, however, know something about what it means to experience transformation.  And I do know “the” real life Transformer who transformed me:  Jesus.

Let me begin at the beginning.  My birth name is Edward Hector Fernando Moreno.  That’s a pretty Hispanic name (as if you couldn’t tell).  I was born and raised in Los Angeles.  My dad physically and psychologically abused my mom, and he hit me so often that I would flinch when he walked by.

The gang infested neighborhoods that I lived in were violent, too.  In a seven year period, I was in about 15 to 20 street fights.  Drug use and a generally immoral lifestyle were also the norm for me.

I was definitely not a college-bound kind of guy, so after high school I immediately entered the work force.  There I found another kind of violence (i.e., the undermining and back stabbing others do to you to get ahead).

By age 19, I literally asked myself: “Is this it?  Is this what life is all about?”  That was the beginning of my search for the real purpose of life.

At age 20, I went with the other brown and black belts at my dojo to go see a new scary movie.  We were “tough” guys and thought: How scary could it be?

Well the movie was “The Exorcist,” and I have to be honest, it scared me a lot.  Because even though I wasn’t raised in a religious home, for some reason I believed that demonic spirits were real and that I was defenseless against them.

For some reason, I also believed that God was real and that he was stronger than the demonic.  So I became determined to go to a church to find out more about God.

The youth pastor had enough presence of mind to hand me an easy to read translation of the Bible before I left that Sunday.  I went to my apartment and started reading through the Gospel of Matthew.

Suddenly, all the lights began to go on.  I was taken with the beauty of Jesus’ life.  I read of a heavenly Father who loved me, even if my earthly father didn’t.   I saw that God had a purpose for my life, and I discovered the meaning of life, which is to love God and serve him gladly.

The next Sunday, when the Pastor gave the opportunity for people to accept God’s offer of salvation through Jesus, his Son, I couldn’t get down the aisle fast enough.

I went home, grabbed the two baggies of marijuana that I had in a drawer, flushed them down the toilet and never looked back.  And the rest, as they say, is history.

The Scripture says that we are a “new creation” in Christ.  I can testify to the truth of that statement.  And as one who has been transformed by the real live Transformer, I can say that now I’m living life with true and lasting purpose.  The old life served no such purpose.

When people feel like they’ll “miss out” on life if they become a follower of Jesus, the crazy thing is that it’s by not becoming a follower of Jesus that they wind up “missing out” on real life – a life of real substance and that has eternal value attached to it.

If you are not a follower of Jesus yet, my prayer is that you will become one soon.  So why not check out a church, and maybe the positive life transforming experience I had will become your experience, too.

New Day Christian Church meets Sundays at 9:30 and 11 a.m.  They are located at 7155 Hamner Avenue, at Schleisman Road, next to the Fire Station.  For more information, call (951) 278-8367, or visit http://www.newdaycc.net.

White House Honors Local Pomona Schools

Photo courtesy: White House

Photo courtesy: White House

Staff Reports

Pomona– On Oct. 15, Pomona Unified School District and Cal Poly Pomona were recognized at the White House for a partnership helping underprivileged Hispanic youth reach higher education.

“It’s through important partnerships such as the one we have with Cal Poly Pomona that we are able to offer tremendous educational opportunities to our students and support them in their academic, professional and personal endeavors,” said Martinez, who was recognized at the White House earlier this year for bolstering student achievement and increasing access to technology at PUSD schools.

Cal Poly’s program, named Pomona TRANSFERmation, grew out of its PolyTransfer program, which was created in response to a call for greater access to higher education from the White House Initiative on Educational Excellence for Hispanics.

TRANSFERmation will create pathways for PUSD graduates to enter two- and four-year colleges and universities, as well as improve their college readiness in English and math, build support networks for them and engage parents.

“We are proud to forge this four-year partnership with Cal Poly Pomona to offer our Latino students a pipeline to college and help remove barriers to higher education by prioritizing early intervention, as well as parent engagement efforts,” said Board of Education President Andrew Wong.  “We remain committed to fostering a college going culture, enhancing academic and educational programs, and making acceptance to a four-year university not only a possibility, but a reality.”

Cal Poly Pomona has long had agreements with local community colleges that ease the path for students, but Terri Gomez, interim associate dean for Cal Poly Pomona’s College of Education and Integrative Studies, said more can be done.

“We know that if we really want to have an impact, we have to extend that pipeline to K-12 students,” Gomez said. “We want to facilitate educational access, which will lead to economic mobility.”

As part of Cal Poly Pomona’s commitment, the university will provide college and financial aid workshops for PUSD high school students; bilingual workshops at the high schools for Latino parents; bilingual campus tours for parents and students; peer mentoring with Cal Poly Pomona transfer students; and a summer program for prospective Latino high school and community college students.

“This truly is a transformative initiative that will change the lives of our first-generation and underrepresented Latino students, who often face challenges to success, and also supports our efforts to provide the children of this community with a high-quality education,” Martinez said. “I want to thank Cal Poly Pomona for its foresight and leadership. It is an honor to jointly receive this White House recognition.”