City Manager Report

Michele Nissen, Interim City Manager

Michele Nissen, Interim City Manager

 
By Michele Nissen
Interim City Manager
 

Eastvale – The 4th Annual Eastvale State of the City truly showed how we are all Eastvale “Strong.” Our accomplishments from the past fiscal year were highlighted, as well as our goals and projects for the coming year. 

We are proud to share that the City of Eastvale has healthy reserves and has held a balanced budget since incorporation in 2010.

As we head into our fifth year of incorporation, the City is working on the fiscal year 2015-2016 budget, goals, and objectives. A Preliminary Budget Hearing will be held on May 13, at Rosa Parks Elementary School in the Multi-Purpose room. The meeting will begin promptly at 5 p.m.The agenda packet will be available on Thurs., May 7. To view the agenda packet, please visit: http://eastvaleca.gov/index.aspx?page=19&recordid=1302.

WV Scholarship Surprise

Seniors surprised with $40,000 Edison scholarship checks

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – For Diamond Bar High senior, Michelle Lyu, it was supposed to be just another day. She was about to begin computer-checking a layout in her second period Yearbook class, when a surprise announcement was made.

Lyu learned she was the recipient of a $40,000 Edison Scholars award!

The entire class cheered when Lyu accepted the oversized check from Edison International, parent company of Southern California Edison (SCE) on Apr. 15.

“I couldn’t be more thankful,” the 18-year old exclaimed. Her parents and school officials were on hand for the special moment.

Earlier that day, Walnut High senior, Ted Zhu, 18, got the word that he was an Edison Scholars winner during second period Publications class.

“I was initially really confused when I saw so many people stream into the classroom. When they mentioned ‘Southern California Edison,’ I didn’t realize it had to do with the scholarship I applied to, since a friend of mine had told me a week earlier that she had won and I thought I had gotten rejected,” Zhu said.  “It was honestly very exciting, especially to share the moment with my parents who were there to see me receive the award.”

A total of 30 high school seniors have been named 2015 Edison Scholars.  The program is for graduating seniors who plan on pursuing a STEM (science, technology, engineering or math) education.

Lyu plans to attend University of Pennsylvania in the fall. She is interested in majoring in Biological Basis of Behavior and dreams of conducting cutting-edge research.

“I can’t see myself doing anything else besides STEM. I can’t wait to use this money to help me reach this goal to do something fantastic in the field of science,” the Diamond Bar High scholar said.

Zhu has been accepted to Harvard University and is interested in becoming a health advocate/researcher.

“This will really help my family alleviate the cost of paying for college and I hope that I will meet the other Edison Scholars, who I can learn so much from,” he said.

Diamond Bar High senior Athena Chen is also a 2015 Edison Scholars recipient. She got the news when she opened the award letter after school on April 20.

“I never get mail and this was from Edison. It was nerve-wracking; I had to re-read it a couple time just to make sure!” said Chen. “I feel very lucky and very honored; It’s going to help me a lot!”

Chen will attend Northwestern University and major in Economics. She plans to focus on the mathematical model.

Students receive the $40,000 scholarship paid over four years. This year, 2,768 high school seniors applied for the award.

Lyu said she has been turned down for a number of scholarships.  “You should believe in your dreams. To win just one scholarship is a very gratifying feeling!”

Dreaming Dreams

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

By Pastor Rob Norris

“So then, while we have opportunity, let us do good to all people,” – Galatians 6:10.

I think one of the greatest needs in the Christian community is for individuals to dream some dreams about how they can use their talents to impact people’s lives for Christ.

Let me tell you about a family that is making a difference. A small family ministry called Standing with Hope provides prosthetic limbs for below-the-knee amputees, not only in the United States, but also in Ghana, Africa.

The process of adding a “skin” covering to make a prosthetic look real can cost thousands of dollars – far too costly for an outreach whose goal is to help as many people as possible be able to walk again.

That’s where the family’s 15-year old son, Grayson Rosenberger, comes in. While noodling over an entry idea for a nationwide science contest, Grayson came across one of his mom’s old, discarded prosthetic legs. He found that by wrapping it in a very common household item, he could give the mechanical limb a realistic shape.

His inexpensive solution? Bubble wrap. Total cost for application? About one dollar.

No, it doesn’t look like skin. But with the right hose or stockings, the prosthetic leg can be made to look real. And for poverty-stricken adults and children in Africa who are often ostracized and teased for the primitive, bare-bones appearance of a fake leg, this is a confidence-creating alternative.

Bubble wrap. Who’d have thought?

Could it be that there is a right-under-your-nose opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives?  Could it be that, if you slowed down and set your mind on seeking God for a way you could really serve Him, He might lay out an idea that’s so simple, you’ll be shocked you didn’t think of it earlier?

Just think. Bubble wrap.

Live It:  Every person and every couple has an assignment from God – a ministry. What’s yours?

Pray:  Express your availability to God, and ask Him to show you the best way to serve.

The Crossings meets Sundays, 10 a.m., at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale. For more information call (951) 847-6836, or visit www.atthecrossings.com.

Everyday Heroes

By Nancy Stoops

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

There is so much good left in our world.  I run into wonderful people daily.  In my eyes you don’t have to acquire super powers or wear a cape to be a hero.

For me, a hero is somebody that models all the good characteristics one should have.  A hero is a person that lives up to their potential and strives to be better each and every day.  A hero is a person that gives fully of themselves because it’s the right thing to do and doesn’t expect anything in return.

Look around and you will see plenty of everyday heroes.  You will find them teaching our children, protecting our community, mentoring others, saving lives and putting out fires, giving grants and scholarships, and modeling who we are intended to be in this world.

Giving unconditionally is one of the greatest gifts one can offer to this world.  It is the stuff that can make another understand just how important their existence is to this world.  It can literally save the life of another.

Sometimes people just need a break, and being an everyday hero can offer that break for another human being.  Don’t take your life for granted; instead strive to be an everyday hero.  It doesn’t require lots of letters after your name or a fancy college degree. You can make a huge influence by just being the wonderful person you already are and by sharing your kindness and compassion with another.

Our youth needs heroes and a sense of hope at this very chaotic time in our world.  It is our job to be everyday heroes and guide them.

Strive to be your best each and every day.  If you do this, I’m sure your innermost hero will be unveiled for the world to see.

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. Nancy is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members. She 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 Nancy at (909) 229-0727; or you may e-mail her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books, Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

DB Predator Arrest

Special Victims Bureau looking for possible additional victims

(Photo Courtesy: LASD) Suspect, Reynato Garcia

(Photo Courtesy: LASD)
Suspect, Reynato Garcia

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Detectives from the Special Victims Bureau arrested a male adult for Communicating with a Minor for Sexual Purposes.

The suspect is Reynato Garcia, 35, of Diamond Bar.  He was arrested on Wed., Apr. 22, at approximately 7 a.m.

The case originated from Diamond Bar High School in November 2014. The school principal advised Sheriff’s officials that an unknown male was loitering outside of the campus and propositioning male students.

The suspect initially offered jobs to the boys. This communication progressed with ever-increasing sexual texts toward them. On several occasions, Garcia allegedly offered money to the boys to perform sex acts with him.

After several months of searching, detectives assumed the identity of one of the victims.  The suspect was identified and it was disclosed that he would be traveling to Hawaii.

With the assistance of several Federal Agencies, the suspect was arrested as he passed through security at Los Angeles International Airport.  He was booked at the South Los Angeles Sheriff’s Station and subsequently released after posting a $15,000 bond.

It is the belief of the Sheriff’s Department that there may be additional victims.  Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Special Victims Bureau at (877) 710-5273.  If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

SAPD Investigates Homicide

(Photo Courtesy: SAPD) The Santa Ana Police Department is searching for this suspect, Javier Luis Cervantes, 24.

(Photo Courtesy: SAPD)
The Santa Ana Police Department is searching for this suspect, Javier Luis Cervantes, 24.

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – A mother arrived at home in the early morning hours of Wed., Apr. 29, with her two children – ages 6 and 7 – and put them to bed.

As she moved to another room in the residence, the victim was assaulted by her estranged husband, Javier Luis Cervantes, 24, who was lying in wait.

According to the Santa Ana Police Department, Cervantes sexually assaulted the victim and stabbed her multiple times with a knife, causing injuries and severe bleeding.  She was able to escape from the apartment and call the police.

Cervantes fled the scene prior to police arrival, stealing the victim’s 2013 silver Ford Edge vehicle – license plate number 6WPY897.

The children were unharmed, and the victim was transported to a local hospital where she is listed in stable condition.

Santa Ana Police Detectives are attempting to apprehend the suspect.

Free Dental Cancer Screenings

By Tamika Bonner

West Covina – A-Z Dental Care is using the award-winning, advanced technology of VELscope VX in the office as a part of overall dental care. The handheld device is used to detect several oral infections including viral, fungal, bacterial, cancer, and tumors. The device also detects papillomas, which is linked to HPV (human papilloma virus).

Over 45,000 people will be newly diagnosed with oral cancer this year, and one person dies every hour of the day throughout the entire year. Major risk factors for oral cancer have been linked to smoking and tobacco, but the fastest growing segment of oral cancer is in young, non-smoking individuals in connection with HPV.

“The high danger comes from the fact that oral cancer is typically painless in its early stages, and goes unnoticed until the disease is advanced and has spread to another part of the body,” says Dr. Dara Gashparova, DDS, of A-Z Dental Care. “The good news is that your dentist or physician can, in many cases, see or feel the tissue changes or the actual cancer while it is very small.”

A-Z Dental Care is offering free oral cancer screenings May 4 – 8, in recognition of Oral Cancer Awareness month. The screening will be conducted using VELscope VX. The procedure is painless, and results will be given in a matter of minutes. Screenings can be made by appointment at (626) 966-8408.

 

A-Z Dental Care, which opened recently in 2014, specializes in providing advanced technology and knowledge paired with the best quality dental care in a calming atmosphere. The office offers digital x-rays, intra-oral camera, soft tissue lasers, Diagnodent, and Invisalign. The office will also offer CEREC technology, which is an innovative CAD/CAM technology that creates porcelain crowns in one office visit. Dental services include all-porcelain crowns, dental implants, night guards, and snoring/sleep apnea aids. A-Z Dental Care is conveniently at 628 N. Azusa Avenue in the city of West Covina. It is in close proximity to the cities of Covina, Baldwin Park, La Puente, Irwindale, Azusa, and San Dimas.  For more information, visit http://atozdentalcare.com/.

Prado Fire Extinguished

Photo By: Felicia Oblea

Photo By: Felicia Oblea

By Randi Hauser

At 6:12 p.m. on Sat., Apr. 18, Riverside County firefighters responded to reports of a cooking fire that began at the Prado Dam Flood Control Basin near the 91 and 71 freeway interchange in Chino Hills. The fire quickly spread southeast along the Santa Ana River as the thick vegetation had not burned in decades.

12 fire crews and two water-drop helicopters fought the flames through the night as the fire continued. Rough terrain and thick brush made the battle difficult for crews on the ground.

Mandatory evacuations were ordered for Bluff, Homestead and Stagecoach roads in Norco. Evacuation centers were set up at Riley Gym for residents and Ingalls Park for animals, including horses.

Local businesses stepped into action to support their community in distress. It is reported that McDonald’s in Norco provided hundreds of hamburgers and apple slices to evacuees and firefighters battling the flames.  EZ-Ups provided shade to residents who were temporarily without a home.  Tractor Supply in Norco provided materials needed for the horse evacuation area set up at Ingalls Park.

According to Cal Fire, evacuations were lifted on the morning of Mon., Apr. 20 as the blaze was contained to 35%.

A smoke sensitivity warning remained in order for a few days more as smoke lingered over Norco and Corona and ash continued to fall. The total, approximately 1,050 acres were burned, but no structural damage was reported.

Did You Know?

(Image Courtesy: Wikipedia) The Battle of Puebla

(Image Courtesy: Wikipedia)
The Battle of Puebla

By K.P. Sander

On Tues., May 5, we celebrate Cinco de Mayo (Spanish for “5th of May”).  This celebration – honored primarily in the United States and Mexico – is a remembrance commemorating the Mexican army’s unexpected victory over the French at the Battle of Puebla on the same date in 1862.

According to Wikipedia, after the Mexican-American War in 1846 and subsequent Reform War in 1858, Mexico became occupied by France.  These wars left Mexico in a state of bankruptcy, and in 1861, then-president Benito Juárez issued a moratorium in which all foreign debt payments would be suspended for two years.  In response, France – as well as Britain and Spain – sent naval forces to Mexico to collect payment.  Britain and Spain negotiated terms and returned home.  France had other plans, and under the rule of Napoleon III, used the opportunity to force an empire that would benefit the French.

Interestingly enough, with the United States completely engulfed in its own Civil War, Napoleon III thought to use the opportunity to replace Juárez with an emperor of his own choosing, and then use Mexico to help the Confederates win the war

The French fleet stormed Veracruz and headed toward the capital of Mexico City; however, at the forts of Loreto and Guadalupe, near Puebla, the poorly equipped Mexican army of just 2,000 managed to crush the elite French army.

Although just a year later the French were able to defeat  the Mexican army, capture the capital, and install Emperor Maximilian I as ruler, the victory at Puebla “came to symbolize unity and pride for what seemed like a Mexican David defeating a French Goliath,” according to Times magazine.  Mexico was able to enjoy a momentous morale boost.

By 1865, the American Civil War had concluded, and the U.S. was able to provide more political and military assistance to help rid Mexico of the French.

On May 9, 1862, President Juárez declared that the anniversary of the Battle of Puebla would be a national holiday regarded as the “Battle of Puebla Day,” or “Battle of Cinco de Mayo.”  It is a day to remember the strength, pride and patriotism that led to victory and unity.

Community Events

Staff Reports

UPCOMING EVENTS:

Chino Corporate Challenge

When:  May 2 – 15

Where:  City of Chino

Details:  Commit your company and yourself to a healthier lifestyle by joining the two week event where company teams can complete with other local businesses in a variety of games, including Kickball, Bunco, Softball.

Contact:  Carolyn Owens, Community Center, (909) 334-3258; email communityservices@cityofchino.org; or visit the website at www.chinocorporatechallenge.com

Irwindale 35th Annual Golf Tournament

When:  Thurs., May 7; 10 a.m. Registration; 11:30 a.m. Shotgun Start; 5:30 p.m. Catered Reception Dinner

Where:  Sierra La Verne Country Club

Details:  The tournament is open to every level of golfer and offers an invigorating day of business networking, socializing and sporting fun. Registration is limited to 144 players and sells out every year.

Contact:  Call the Chamber office at (626) 960-6606, or visit www.irwindalechamber.org

“Fore The Kids” Golf Tournament

When:  Mon., May 11, 9 a.m. Scramble Start

Where: Western Hills Country Club; 1800 Carbon Canyon Rd, Chino Hills

Details:  A great day of golf and camaraderie while helping Diamond Bar area kids with needed sports fields and other programs.  Breakfast, lunch, and contests for prizes.

Contact: Call the Diamond Bar Community Foundation at (909) 437-6366, or visit thedbcf.org/golfing-fore-the-kids

Kids’ Night Out

When:  May 16; Jun. 20; Jul. 18; 6 to 9 p.m.

Where:  Chino Youth Museum, 13191 6th St., Chino

Details:  Participants enjoy a fun Saturday evening at the Museum while parents enjoy a nice evening out.  Art projects, games, dinner – all with a caring staff.  Ages 4 to 10.  $12 members/$15 general.  Pre-registration is required.

Contact: (909) 334.3270 during normal operating hours, Wed. – Sun., 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; or visit chinoyouthmuseum.com.

First Friday Food Trucks                                                

When:  June 5; July 3; Aug. 7; Sept. 11; Oct. 2; Nov. 6; Dec. 4

Where:  WVUSD, Parking Lot, 880 S. Lemon Ave., Walnut

Details:  Enjoy gourmet food, great weather and good friends while supporting education!  Truck line-up:  The Slummin’ Gourmet; Piaggio; Me So Hungry; Street Food; Bakery Truck.

 

Pomona Inner City Homeless Ministry Dinner

When:  The 4th Saturday monthly: June 27, July 25, etc.

Where:  First Baptist Church of Pomona, 601 N. Garey Ave., Pomona

Details:  Come help serve the homeless and economically disadvantaged at monthly dinners.  Volunteers meet in E202 (2nd Floor) at 12 noon for prayer/devotion, followed by orientation, clothing and hygiene kit distribution, and instruction for serving dinner to the homeless.  Ministry ends by 4:30 p.m.

 

REGULAR EVENTS:

Alcohol and Addiction Intervention Information

When: Third Tuesday, monthly; 6 p.m.

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

Details:  Free information sessions about the intervention process, a powerful tool to combat alcoholism and addiction.  Attendees can expect to learn what the intervention process consists of, when an intervention is appropriate, and what local resources are available.  Space is limited and reservations are recommended.

Contact:  Call (626) 859-5269, or visit http://www.charteroakhospital.com.

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

Peyton Construction Update

Waterline relocation results in use of bypass road at Peyton Drive and Eucalyptus Avenue

By Denise Cattern

Chino Hills – The relocation of a 16” waterline along the northbound lanes of Peyton Drive will result in the first use of the bypass road that was built specifically for when construction crews must sporadically work within the street during the Peyton Widening and Improvement project construction.

Construction crews will close the work zone south of the intersection of Peyton Drive and Eucalyptus Avenue at 8:30 a.m. on Mon., May 4, after the morning school traffic; and again on Tues., May 5, at 7:30 a.m.

While the bypass road is in use, northbound traffic on Peyton Drive will stop, turn left onto the bypass road, stop at Eucalyptus Avenue (across from Chino Hills Community Park entrance), turn right, then approach the intersection at Peyton Drive and Eucalyptus Avenue. Southbound Peyton Drive traffic will turn right on Eucalyptus Avenue, stop, turn left onto the bypass road, stop, and then turn right on Peyton Drive. Delays are expected when the bypass road is in use because each turning movement will be controlled by a stop sign.

The relocation of the waterline is expected to take two full days. The work will be completed between the hours of 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. on Mon., May 4; and 7:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. – or until the work is completed – on Tues., May 5.

The four residents facing Peyton Drive, south of Eucalyptus Avenue, and the Chino Valley Community Church will be without water for the duration of the waterline work on Tuesday only.

Another route is a better route! Residents and commuters are being asked to avoid the intersection of Peyton Drive and Eucalyptus Avenue if they can do so.  Less traffic means more tolerable conditions for others who must conduct business along Peyton Drive. Please plan ahead for the traffic delays and allow extra time for your travels.

Motorists with Smartphones are encouraged to take advantage of the OxBlue app to check real time road conditions on the two webcams that are operational 24/7. For those with access to computers, visit http://www.chinohills.org/PeytonConstruction, and click on the webcam photo to view conditions. Motorists are also advised to slow down in the construction area for the safety of the workers.

For questions on this project, please call (909) 364-2775.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 05.02.15

2015-May2-Weekly-COVERThe Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, 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-May2-Weekly-WEB

Fearless

By Michael Armijo 

I recently realized the level of pressure that has been placed upon me. I never asked for it, I never sought it out; it just graciously appeared upon my doorstep. Someone “rang my doorbell” and simply ran away.

I don’t believe it’s the level of pressure you have in life that defines you, I believe it’s your ability to cope with that pressure. For me, coping has been somewhat of an issue, and pressure seems to keep mounting within my life. In the past, I’ve been unable to thoroughly and responsibly cope. But I remember reading somewhere that if you give it all up, you will become a new man.

So after failing several times last year, my drive and desire to be a better man has kept me from quitting. I don’t come from the greenest of pastures, nor have I traveled a paved road. So for me to build a home on a solid foundation has been quite difficult.

I know I cannot blame my present on my past. Nor can I predict a horrible tomorrow based on a bad yesterday – although these things constantly try to ruin what I have today.

The thing I’ve come to realize is that yesterday is not running today, I am. I am the only one who can allow the horrid experiences, bad memories, and painful encounters to interfere with the ones I love, the joys I’ve experienced, and the future I deserve.

What is significant to me may be insignificant to others.  Is the glass half empty, or half full?  Is the grass greener, or just artificial turf?  Some people have no glass and no grass. Some of us complain about the shoes we wear while others have no legs to stand on.

So what does it take for me to realize how fortunate I really am?

There are times within our lives when we have to put things in perspective. I’ve experienced things in my life that have changed me emotionally.  At first I caved and allowed my past to take over and interfere with my ability to cope. I have driven away almost everyone that truly cared about me, and when I had the opportunity to rectify the situation, I just simply walked away. It hurts to realize that I could not cope with the pain, and that my actions created even more pain for me and for others.  One day I came to the realization that I no longer liked who I was.

I remembered my childhood – being abused, hurt, lying on the ground desperately trying to defend myself against a grown man.  And I also remembered getting up. I was able to find a new way, a new path.  I found survival instincts, again and again.  I thought, “If that little boy could do it, why can’t I?”

So today I am thankful that I have the incredible ability to survive; that I have the ability to overcome – because I have, over and over again. And yes, my glass is half-full and my grass is greener than any home on my block.  And just like that little boy who picked himself up with tears in his eyes and a wounded heart, I’m going to keep getting up.  I’m going to keep surviving.  And just like that little boy, I am choosing to become fearless.

Governor Mandates 25% Water Reduction

(Photo Courtesy: BeWaterWise.com) California Friendly® Gardens – Every bit as beautiful, not nearly as thirsty.

(Photo Courtesy: BeWaterWise.com)
California Friendly® Gardens – Every bit as beautiful, not nearly as thirsty.

Staff Reports

Jurupa Valley – With continuing drought conditions and following the lowest snowpack ever recorded, Governor Jerry Brown, in an executive order, has directed the California State Water Resources Control Board (the State) to mandate a 25% water reduction for all urban water usage through Feb. 28, 2016.

Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) is evaluating the State’s additional emergency drought restrictions to determine its impact on our service area and the community. JCSD is currently in Level 2 (Drought Caution) of its Water Shortage Contingency Plan, and is evaluating if amendments to the plan are necessary to meet the State’s mandates and to help increase water efficiency.

JCSD continues to offer conservation programs and rebates in partnership with Western Municipal Water District.

Surviving our drought and meeting the State’s mandates requires all Californians to make small changes in indoor water usage habits and significant changes to their outdoor watering practices.

If you would like to learn more about water conservation, rebate resources, and ways to increase your water-use efficiency, visit the following websites:

  • jcsd.us/Conservation. Updated drought regulations will also be posted on JCSD’s website on a regular basis.
  • iEfficient.com is a collaborative conservation effort developed by water agencies and cities throughout the Inland Empire, including JCSD.
  • SaveOurWater.com is a partnership between the Association of California Water Agencies and the California Department of Water Resources.
  • BeWaterWise.com offers tips from Metropolitan Water District.
  • WesternTurfReplacement.com is a program that pays a rebate incentive of $2 per square foot of area that is replaced with water-friendly landscaping.
  • SoCalWaterSmart.com provides a listing of all the rebates that are available to JCSD customers and most water customers in Southern California.
  • CNPS.orgThe California Native Plant Society provides information on native plants including care, irrigation, and maintenance.

WVUSD Board Recognizes Super Stars

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile) Evergreen parent volunteer, Lynette Marantz, was awarded the Partner in Education Award (shown with family members, Principal Carolyn Wills, and Board President Larry Redinger).

(Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)
Evergreen parent volunteer, Lynette Marantz, was awarded the Partner in Education Award (shown with family members, Principal Carolyn Wills, and Board President Larry Redinger).

By Kelli Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley’s Board of Trustees honored stellar students and dedicated community members during the April 15 meeting.

Evergreen Elementary 5th Grader, Amber Wang, was honored with the Super Star Student Award.

Wang won the Scary Story Contest sponsored by the San Gabriel Valley Tribune. She plays the flute and performed with an erhu, a traditional Chinese instrument, during the talent show. Wang is also a team player in the robotics program. For Famous American Day, Wang dressed up as Steve Jobs and convinced everyone to go out and buy Apple products.

Two committed community members received the school’s Partner in Education Award.

Lynette Marantz has been a dedicated Evergreen volunteer for the past 15 years. She’s filled nearly every position in Community Club, helped organize the Talent Show, Walk-a-Thon, and served as president of the Community Club the past two years.

Hailey Shi is a talented former Evergreen student who donated her time and talents to paint a “giving tree” mural to recognize generous Community Club donations. She credits her elementary teachers for recognizing and encouraging her artistic talents.  Shi is now a freshman at Diamond Bar High.

South Pointe Middle School 6th Grader, David Perez, received the Super Star Student Award.  Although life is sometimes filled with challenges, this positive young man chooses to address adversity with a smile.

“He spreads joy wherever he goes!” Principal Susan Arzola said.

South Pointe’s Community Club Treasurer, Dr. Vivian Lu, was honored with the Partner in Education Award. Dr. Lu is also a dentist, who helped someone at the school suffering from an acutely abscessed tooth. Dr. Lu treated the infection and made school visits to ensure that her directions were followed. She provided thousands of dollars in additional dental care to ensure the person no longer suffered.

“Dr. Lu not only takes care of our students and makes sure our finances are in order, but she is generous with her time, skills and compassion,” Arzola stated.

Parent volunteer, Kelly Eazor, received the Partner in Education Award. Eazor recently lent her creativity to decorate the reception and organize a photo display for South Pointe’s 25th anniversary party. She created the backdrops for the Little Mermaid production, saving the school thousands of dollars. Eazor even sells nachos after school to support the performing arts program.

Diamond Bar High School’s South Asian Parents Association (SAPA) co-presidents, Lubna Akbany and Archana Verma, received the Partner in Education Award.

“Lubna and Archana have been able to unite people of all races and creeds in support of our most valuable resources – our children,” Principal Catherine Real said. “The characteristics of compassion, intelligence, and vision are all wrapped up in these wonderful examples of humanity and volunteerism,” she added.

Diamond Bar High senior, Ruben Reyes, received the Super Star Senior Award.  He has been accepted at both Stanford and Harvard.

Reyes’ accolades include ten AP classes, class officer all four years, Best Buddies Club president, and a member of national organization, yearbook staff, and varsity cross country and track athlete. He is described by teachers as a humble-servant leader who always puts the needs of others first.

The DBHS Varsity Girls Golf Team and coach, Tony McCabe, were recognized for their extraordinary achievement of winning the CIF State Championship.

The DBHS Health Occupations Students of America (HOSA) Club was voted as the “Most Professional Chapter” in 2015, out of 280 chapters at the annual conference. More than 200 student delegates elected member Crystal Chang as a state officer for the 2015-2016 school year.

The DBHS Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Club and advisor, Ty Watkins, were honored with certificates of recognition. The chapter has grown in the last nine years from only four members to nearly 300 chapter members. The club successfully vied in numerous competitive events at the 2015 Inland Section Conference.

24 young artists were recognized as winners of the 2015 Music K-8 Magazine Cover Contest.  Music Specialist, Judy Brunelle, introduced the talented elementary students who received certificates of recognition and color prints of their artwork.

This year’s top WVUSD winner is Westhoff Elementary 5th Grader, Madison Hsieh, 7th Place Runner-Up.

Congratulations to all of WVUSD’s Super Stars!

David & Margaret Youth and Family Services

Expansion to help set former Foster Youth on a path toward self reliance

(Photo Courtesy: David & Margaret Youth and Family Services) More foundations for the Cedar Springs Apartment Homes being poured as framing continues.

(Photo Courtesy: David & Margaret Youth and Family Services)
More foundations for the Cedar Springs Apartment Homes being poured as framing continues.

By Julie Griffith

La Verne – Yvonne first ran away from the foster care home of her aunt at age 14, which she entered after her mother’s death in a car accident. Although she lived with relatives, there was little concern for her.  Her aunt was too busy raising her own four children, and resented another child in the home. Running away with only $23 in hand, Yvonne was soon spotted by police, who turned her over to the child welfare system.

Two years and three run-away episodes later, Yvonne entered a group foster care home for girls. One week after her 18th birthday, however, Yvonne’s caseworker came to the home and told her that she was too old to be there anymore. She was handed cab fare and the address to a women’s shelter.

“There are thousands of young people like Yvonne in our communities: foster children who reach age 18, become adults and begin ‘aging out’ of the foster care system, ready or not – and most of them are not,” says Charles Rich, Executive Director of David & Margaret Youth and Family Services in La Verne. “There are opportunities for some to stay in the system and live in an apartment under the supervision of a social worker until they turn 21, but the demand for these living arrangements vastly outstrips the supply.”

Last year alone, more than 2,300 Los Angeles County foster youth “aged out” of the foster care system, some of which went to live with relatives or friends.  A number of them will wear out their welcome and end up back in the streets or in some type of shelter, and look for more secure housing.  Ideally, all those who don’t have a secure living situation to move to when they do have to exit the system, would be placed into some kind of an independent living situation, but there are simply too few of those living units available.

“Most parents understand how challenging it is in today’s world for an 18- to 21-year-old to get an education, secure and hold a job, make a home and begin building a family, even with strong family support,” says Arun Tolia, the agency’s incoming Board of Directors President. “Few youth at this age are ready to face the economic and social trials awaiting them, and studies indicate that on average, most young Americans do not achieve true financial independence until age 26.”

For more than 30 years, David & Margaret has provided some level of services for youth who are transitioning out of foster care but have little or no family support. The agency launched its Transitional Living and Care Program nine years ago as a non-residential program helping youth take on all the challenges of living in today’s society. And this past January, David & Margaret took its most ambitious step yet toward helping transitional age youth set out on the path to self sufficiency by breaking ground on a project more than seven years in the making.

To help meet these challenges, the 105-year old agency is creating three new facilities on its 18-acre property. One is an apartment complex that will provide 25 permanent supportive homes for these youth: three two-story buildings in a garden-like setting, featuring a community center for residents, which will be open to placements for youth from Los Angeles, San Bernardino, and other surrounding counties.

Importantly, the agency’s expansion project includes a Youth Work Force Training Center to provide training opportunities for these youth, who can move toward self-reliance by working and gaining skills in a real on-site store and café. A training lab will provide a place to focus on independent living skills and job readiness.

There also will be a Transitional Youth Resource Center in renovated space in an adjacent existing building providing these youth, particularly those living in off-campus apartments, with a safe place to hang out with their peers. Staff will have offices there, allowing accessibility to youth for support, coaching and training.

It takes a village to complete such an ambitious undertaking, and David & Margaret is seeking to partner with a wide range of local businesses to provide mentoring, internships, possible job placements, and foundations, businesses and individuals who can help fund the remaining $3.7 million of the project. The capital campaign includes an endowment to provide for other needs, such as renovating the agency’s residential cottages, upgrading technology, and remodeling offices to maximize resources.

For more information on all of the benefits of David & Margaret Youth and Family Services, and the Cedar Springs expansion project, contact the David & Margaret Development Department at (909) 596-5921, ext. 3226, or visit http://www.DavidandMargaret.org.

Baldwin Park Shooting Investigation

Staff Reports

Baldwin Park – Sheriff’s Homicide Detectives are continuing to assist the Baldwin Park Police Department in the investigation of circumstances regarding the shooting death of a 37-year old man in the 3800 block of Cosbey Street, in Baldwin Park.

Detectives have learned that on Mon., Apr. 20 at approximately 8:19 p.m., Baldwin Park Police Officers responded to the location regarding a “shots fired” call.  When they arrived, they found the victim lying on the front lawn with apparent gunshot wounds.  The victim was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to witnesses, two male Hispanics were seen running northbound on Earl Avenue, from Cosbey Street, toward Ramona Boulevard.

Part of the investigation led detectives to an address in the 13200 block of Earl Avenue. The L.A. County Sheriff’s Department Special Enforcement Bureau executed a search warrant at the location and several people were detained.  There have been no arrests made at this time.

The investigation is active and ongoing.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department’s Homicide Bureau at (323) 890-5500.  If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org

Grand Avenue Street Project Underway

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Grand Avenue will get a fresh coat of pavement from Chino Hills Parkway to Peyton Drive as part of the rehabilitation project now underway. All American Asphalt was awarded an $875,000 contract funded by the Gas Tax.

As part of the project, the traffic signals at the intersections of Village Center Drive, Madrugada Drive, and Calle San Marcos have been modified to incorporate video detection of traffic conditions. This will minimize traffic disruptions that normally occur during paving projects due to the traffic signal loops being damaged.

Beginning Mar. 26, wheelchair ramps at the intersections will be reconstructed in compliance with ADA (American’s with Disabilities Act) regulations.

The project schedule calls for the major work and lane closures on Grand Avenue to be underway during Spring Break. Starting on Mon., Apr. 6, crews will begin grinding the existing roadway, followed by paving through Apr. 10.  One lane of traffic in each direction will be maintained at all times. Striping, signage, and cleanup work are expected to be completed in the first few weeks of May.

For additional information, please call (909) 364-2775.

Best Schools For Your Buck

Walnut Valley named 6th in California

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile

Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile

By Kelly Gile

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District is described as a hidden gem in the 2015 “Best School Districts for Your Buck,” a California report.

WVUSD is ranked 6th in the state by the financial website, NerdWallet.  The report analyzed 375 school districts based on the criteria of affordability to live there, standardized test scores, college readiness and class size.

WVUSD makes the list with one of the state’s strongest graduation rates – 98.3% – as well as a high SAT average of 1785.

It’s no secret that California boasts some of the country’s top public schools. However, home prices in many of these districts top the $1 million mark, which is well out of reach for the average worker.

NerdWallet crunched the numbers and found places where children can get an excellent public education, and home prices aren’t reserved for the very wealthy.

The 2013 median home value in WVUSD is $597,800, and the student-to-teacher ratio is 24.56.

Walnut High, a two-time National Blue Ribbon School and seven-time California Distinguished School, is featured in the Top 10 listing. The school has rigorous academic course requirements along with strong electives, including business management, entrepreneurship and architecture.

See the full report at http://www.nerdwallet.com/blog/cities/best-school-districts-california-2015/.

NFL: Industry Vs. Carson – Game On!

Photo Courtesy: Google Images

Photo Courtesy: Google Images

By Claire Lewis

Carson – So, no NFL teams in the Los Angeles area for nigh on 20 years, and now there could possibly be two stadiums housing four teams.  How could this be possible?

On Tues., Apr. 21, in a move that mimicked what the city of Inglewood did this past February, Carson’s City Council voted 3-0 to approve a $1.7 billion stadium that will reportedly house the Chargers and the Raiders.  And, like Inglewood, Carson’s council did so without consideration of a public vote.

Although 15,000 plan supporters signed the initiative (in only eight days) in favor of the stadium, perhaps the public vote is obvious.  News reports say that NFL fans dressed in team jerseys crowded into Carson’s council chambers to applaud the news.

Not to put the cart before the horse, but little things like money, timelines, land use, taxes, developers, designs, and much more, will need to be worked out.  The initiative reportedly says no tax dollars will be used for the long-vacant 168-acre parcel along the 405 Freeway (which is apparently a former landfill under environmental refurbishment at this time). Carson has released a report with few details.

While Goldman Sachs will lead the investment part of the project, the City says, “The difference between making and losing money hinges on $1.4 million a year in federal housing funds the city could lose if room can’t be found elsewhere for more than 1,500 housing units that were originally planned for the stadium site.”

Meanwhile, on Jan. 5, Rams’ owner, Stan Kroenke, announced his plans to incorporate an 80,000-seat sports stadium into a multipurpose entertainment venue on the former Hollywood Park racetrack site.  Shortly thereafter the Inglewood City Council approved the $1.86 billion stadium, perhaps coaxing the St. Louis Rams, as well as another team, to return to Los Angeles.

Officials from Hollywood Park Land Company say the proposed stadium will come to fruition whether an NFL team makes the move to the Greater Los Angeles area, or not.  Kroenke’s venture does not guarantee anything.  It could mean a move for the Rams or simply a capital venture for billionaire Kroenke.

While NFL Commissioner, Roger Goodell, previously said that the league would not support a team relocation for the 2015 season, it seems a bit of a moot point since a project of this magnitude wouldn’t be completed until the 2016, or even 2017 season.  Mayhap a bright, shiny, new stadium – or two – will change his mind.

NFL stadium ventures in the Los Angeles area have come and gone in the past.  Now it looks like we have approval for two of them.  The How, Who and When remain to be seen.