Walnut: Mora Gets 20 Years For Murder

STAFF REPORTS

mora-home

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

 

Birth Tourism: Is The American Dream For Sale?

Maternity Hotel 1By K.P. Sander

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Glendale: Man Sentenced For Medicare Fraud

STAFF REPORTS

 

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

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

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

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

Eastvale: New Acting City Manager Selected

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale

Staff Reports

Eastvale – During the closed session discussion at the Sept. 10 City Council Meeting, council members unanimously selected Robert Van Nort to serve as Eastvale’s Acting City Manager. Van Nort’s term as Acting City Manager becomes effective immediately.

Van Nort served as the City’s first Interim City Manager immediately following incorporation in October 2010. Under Van Nort’s prior leadership, the City was able to weather the loss of the Vehicle License Fee in July 2011 without drastically cutting critical services to the citizens of Eastvale. Despite the significant loss of general fund revenue, Van Nort laid a solid foundation of financial stability by taking aggressive cost-savings measures and creating a dedicated, hardworking team environment at City Hall.

Van Nort brings over 30 years of city management experience to Eastvale, including 11 assignments as Interim City Manager across the United States. He has previously managed the cities of Eastvale, Big Bear Lake, Diamond Bar, Chino Hills, and Snow Valley, Idaho to name a few.

The City staff is very excited to have Van Nort return to the helm at City Hall to continue implementing the successful policy vision of the City Council.

“We are really glad to have Bob back,” said Mayor Ike Bootsma. “He knows the City well and he will provide seamless, sound and uninterrupted management of the City. With Bob, there is no need to train anyone, no down time and we gain his invaluable experience and expertise.”

Eastvale: Corona Norco School District Requests New Bond

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

 

Eastvale – On August 5, the Corona-Norco School Board voted to place a $396 million bond measure on the November ballot. This bond comes just eight years after Measure U, a 30-year, $250 million bond, for which less than 17 percent of the money went directly to Eastvale. Most of the funds were used to rehab schools in Corona and Norco.

This new bond, referred to as the Corona-Norco Bond, would be used to upgrade classrooms, science labs and technology systems for career and technical education classes, including infrastructure for wireless Internet access for almost every school in the district. In addition, the bond would be used to replace or repair old roofs, plumbing, electrical, etc. Portable classrooms and security systems may also be replaced, as well as upgrades to fences, gates, classroom locks and outdoor lights.

But what does this mean for Eastvale? How do we ensure that our schools get their fair share of the bond money as opposed to the mere 17 percent Eastvale schools received in 2006? At a school bond discussion meeting a few months back with various members of the community and CNUSD Superintendent, Michael Lin, councilmember William Link expressed this very concern.

“As a councilmember representing this City, I expressed my concern that any money paid by Eastvale residents toward the bond needs to be kept in Eastvale Schools. Once I received a copy of the bond I forwarded it on to our City Attorney, John Cavanaugh, to review and really make sure that the verbiage is clear and accurate.”

Many in Eastvale feel that our schools did not get their fair share of the last bond, especially when Eastvale residents pay such high taxes. On a recent Facebook group discussion, Eastvale Resident Lisett Beytia said, “I will be voting NO. I don’t think the school district has really shown how my bond money has benefited the Eastvale schools. I know it’s selfish, but if I’m paying extra taxes for schools I want the money to stay in Eastvale.
”

CNUSD board member, Bill Newberry, who was not on the board during the 2006 Measure U Bond vote, would also like to ensure that bond money paid by Eastvale residents stays in Eastvale.

“I have been in meetings with bond attorneys, tax attorneys, bonding companies, our District’s legal staff, and I have ensured, as Bill Link said, that in the legal Bond Resolution it will stipulate that the money raised in each community of our district will be spent in that community of our district. I will make certain that a legal document is made available to anyone. This bond will ask for $24 per $100,000 of Assessed Value, so in Eastvale approximately $96 per year.”

One of the biggest items that the new bond could affect is the overcrowding of Eleanor Roosevelt High School. According to Newberry, ERHS will reach capacity by the 2015-2016 school year. If the bond passes, one of the biggest items and most expensive projects would be the proposed Academy/Magnet High School to be located in the back of the High School parking lot. The new school would be geared toward high end Science, Technology, Engineering, and Medicine academics and house approximately 800 students.

As more information comes out about the bond, one thing is certain, do your homework. Stay informed, ask questions and really read what you are voting for. For more information about school bonds check out CNUSD’s website at thttp://www.cnusd.k12.ca.us.

 

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

STAFF REPORTS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

Jurupa Valley: JCSD Successful in $97 Million Refinance

STAFF REPORTS

 

Jurupa Valley – The Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) has successfully completed the refinancing of $97,030,000 in special tax bonds for 11 Community Facilities Districts (CFDs). Many new communities, such as Eastvale, require the construction of infrastructure such as parks and public facilities, street lights, and connections to water and sewer systems. CFDs levy special property taxes paid by homeowners for the construction of such infrastructure, also known as Mello-Roos.

This refinancing is estimated to generate approximately $962,000 of annual debt service savings. The total savings over the life of the bond in today’s dollars is equivalent to approximately $13,154,000 savings for property owners. As a result of the lower debt service payments, the homeowners will have a reduced special tax levy beginning with the upcoming December 2014 property tax bill. The annual per parcel tax savings for each of the 11 CFDs will range between $63 and $342, depending on location.

The refinancing of existing CFD bonds does not extend the original terms of repayment to maximize the total interest savings for each resident of the CFD.

This refinancing reflects JCSD’s ongoing commitment to maintain the lowest cost financing available for the CFD debt. JCSD reviews the CFD debt on an ongoing basis and refinances existing debt when there is an opportunity for savings. The current round of refinancing was preceded by $33 million of CFD debt that JCSD refinanced in 2013. That refinancing produced a total of $1.86 million of savings for four CFDs and generated more than $148,000 in annual debt service savings for these four districts.

The total combined amount refinanced in 2013 and 2014 is approximately 40% of the total CFD debt outstanding.

If you have any questions, please call the JCSD Finance Department at (951) 727-7434, extension 115.

 

Chino: Budget Rooter Plumbing

STAFF REPORTS

 

daves-budget-rooter

You can reach Dave Holt at Budget Rooter Plumbing at (909) 592-5855 or (626) 334-3533, or visit http://www.abudgetrooter.com for more information.

Chino – It’s hard to find a plumber who does good work, but Dave Holt has been in the business for 35 years and promises to fix it right the first time.

 

“We treat every customer with respect and honesty,” Holt said. “I do the best job I can for a fair price. It costs a lot to have a plumber come out, and you should at least get what you pay for.”

 

Budget Rooter Plumbing can complete a list of repairs such as work on faucets, water heaters, broken pipes, leak locating, and sewer replacement.

 

“I personally come out and care about your problems,” Holt said. “I will give you an honest opinion and a fair price.”

 

Holt says he enjoys his job because of the gratification he gets out of helping people that appreciate him. He returns the favor by offering a personal warranty on his work.

 

“My personal warranty is if it ever needs repair, just give me a call,” he said.

 

For Budget Rooter Plumbing’s coupon for a free in-home estimate, valued at $49.50, see page 10.

 

You can reach Dave Holt at Budget Rooter Plumbing at (909) 592-5855 or (626) 334-3533, or visit www.abudgetrooter.com for more information. Budget Rooter serves the San Gabriel and Pomona Valleys.

Just Do It

By PASTOR ROBERT JEWETT

Pastor Robert Jewett Word of Truth Community Church

Pastor Robert Jewett Word of Truth Community Church

People have a natural tendency to do things their own way. Thus, God instructs us to not lean on our own understanding, nor be wise in our own eyes (Proverbs 3:5, 7). God graciously reminds us that his thoughts and ways are far higher than ours (Isaiah 55:8-9). Since God knows everything, we would do well to heed His every word (Psalms 139:4; 1 John 3:19-20).

Sadly, many still choose to live according to their own way. Much like a person going through the cafeteria line, many people pick and choose things they like about Jesus and pass over the things they do not like. They pick the things that make them feel good (2 Timothy 4:3), and avoid the things that expose their sin and make them feel convicted (John 3:20).

Since God is good, loving, and faithful (Psalm 100:5), we can trust His word to be for our good and his glory. You will find great peace and victory in just doing what God says without questioning it. Begin today to focus your attention on pleasing God through complete obedience, knowing that God desires obedience more than sacrifice (1 Samuel 15:22).

For  information about Word of Truth Community Church, visit http://www.wordoftruthcc.com.

 

Attitude Is Everything

BY NANCY STOOPS

 

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

Do you see a half-filled glass as half empty or as half full? Do you tend to see what’s wrong with your life, or do you focus on what is right with your life? Would you consider yourself a negative person or a positive person? Do you wake up everyday being happy to be alive and hopeful about a new day, or do you dread getting up?

The way that you have answered the above questions is probably also the way that you live your life, and the way you view your life. I believe having a positive attitude is foundational in being a successful human being. Being positive is essential to everything good that comes with this life. I think it all starts by being positive about who you are, and about behaving in a manner that makes you proud of whom you are.

Generally, if you like who you are and are a good person, people will like you as well. Also, if you like who you are, you will want only the best for yourself. This will cause you to go to college, get a good job, find a good mate, and believe that you can make your dreams comes true.

On the other hand, being negative only prevents you from following your dreams. Being negative also causes a lot of self doubt and really gets in the way of accomplishments.

Learn to look at the good in your life and at what you have done right so far. Learn from your mistakes, but don’t focus on them, otherwise your life will feel like one big mistake. Look at all that you already have going right for you and learn to build on the positive. If you do, more positivity will come to you.

 

This article was written by Nancy stoops, M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist with a private practice in Diamond Bar, and is currently accepting new clients. Nancy also runs free family support groups, anger management groups, and special groups for seniors and teens. She is also available for motivational speaking engagements. For more information on any of these services, contact Nancy at (909)229-0727.

 

Pomona: Diamond Ranch Named Top U.S. School

diamond-ranch-high-school

Photo Courtesy: Diamond Ranch High School

STAFF REPORTS

Pomona – The Daily Beast news organization has ranked Diamond Ranch High School as one of the most successful public high schools for 2014, out of thousands reviewed across the nation.

In its quest to find the top public educational institutions in America, The Daily Beast surveyed approximately 1,200 schools with above-average graduation rates of at least 85 percent. After taking academic rigor into consideration, the list was whittled down to just over 700 finalists.

According to the Pomona Unified School District, Diamond Ranch has a graduation rate of 99.3 percent and has a college-bound rate of 89.3 percent – ranked 308 out of 735.

“There are hundreds of excellent schools on this list, so for one of our schools to be recognized out of thousands across the nation for its academic prowess and rigorous program is a great feat for Pomona Unified,” said Board of Education President Frank Guzman. “I couldn’t be prouder of our teachers and staff for working so hard to make Diamond Ranch stand out as one of the best high schools in the region to best prepare our students for the 21st century.”

The criteria used to compile the list included graduation and college acceptance rates, which were weighed most heavily; academic rigor using Advanced Placement (AP) and International Baccalaureate (IB) classes and test scores; the number of students qualifying for free or reduced lunches; and student performance on college admission exams – all indicators of how well a school prepares students for college and career.

At Diamond Ranch, nearly 100 percent of students graduate, almost 90 percent are college-bound, and students score highly on the SAT (1453) and ACT (20.7) college admission tests. The number of students enrolled in the school’s AP/IB courses is 31.6 percent and the exam pass rate on those two rigorous academic tests is 43.8 percent.

“As a principal, I am thrilled with the high academic standards our students, staff and parents have,” Diamond Ranch Principal, Suzanne Ripley, said. “We have a strong tradition of excellence at Diamond Ranch High School and it is wonderful to have major news agencies acknowledge the top high schools in the nation, and we are proud to be one of them.”

In addition to The Daily Beast’s ranking, Diamond Ranch was recognized as one of America’s most challenging high schools by the Washington Post and as one of the best high schools by U.S. News and World Report. Diamond Ranch is also a two-time California Distinguished School and successfully earned a six-year WASC accreditation term.

Other key components that make Diamond Ranch a standout school include establishing AP and Honors courses, achieving Digital High School status, having cutting-edge technology, athletic success and powerful co-curricular programs.

“Our vision at Pomona Unified is to prepare students to become first-class citizens with a world-class education, and these rankings only validate the success of that vision,” PUSD Superintendent Richard Martinez said.  “Congratulations to our great teachers, parents and community for supporting our kids in achieving significant academic growth.”

 

WOW

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

 

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

The word “wow” means a variety of things to different people.  It is an expression we use when we are delighted by an expected surprise.  It is a word we use when we try to describe a beautiful sunset or a majestic mountain peak. I’m sure that you could add to this list with additional ways you use, “wow”.

At our church the word “WOW” is the name of our Women’s Ministry Bible Study program.  The letters stand for, “Women of Worth”.

Every Wednesday morning over 100 women of all ages gather to study the Bible.  In addition, classes are available in the evening for women who cannot attend in the day time. There are classes that study specific books of the Bible and there are classes on subjects that are specifically geared for women.  Some of the studies being offered this fall include: Becoming the Woman of His Dreams; Choose Joy – Because Happiness Isn’t Enough; and A Study of the Book of Genesis.

Women of all ages participate in the WOW program.  Some are new mothers.  Others are empty-nesters. Some have a lot of background studying the Bible, and others are new to Bible study. Many of the women who attend WOW actually attend other churches in the community on Sundays.

This weekly program is available to women who want to deepen their knowledge of the Bible and strengthen their friendships with other women. WOW classes begin on Wed., Sept. 10, at 9 a.m. Child care is available for nursery and preschool children.

For more information, please visit our website at www.efreedb.org, or contact our Women’s Ministry Director, Nancy Salvato, at our church office, at (909) 594-7604.

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.

 

 

Inside Baseball

BY PASTOR ROB NORRIS

 

“I know that you want truth to be in my heart. You teach me wisdom deep down inside me,” Psalm 51:6.

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

Sometimes in the midst of correcting your kids, you can easily lose sight of the main reason you discipline them in the first place. It’s not just to get their clothes picked up, or to eat the meal you’ve prepared, or to stop hitting a sibling. The reason for discipline is to develop inner character, the kind that knows and is learning how to respond to life’s challenges.

The core of a baseball is made of hard rubber. But imagine if the core were marshmallow. What would happen as the string wrapped around it or when a bat smacked it hard several times? It would smash into a mess.

It’s the inside that counts; the character you’re growing in your children. As life begins to happen, as circumstances and decisions begin to wrap around them, it’s their character that will hold them together.

Tami and I define character as “response-ability” – the ability to make the right choices in response to authority and to life’s circumstances. From the time your children leave the cradle, your work as a parent is to turn life situations into teaching situations, growing their “response-ability” one day at a time, teaching them how to respond to you, to others, to life and to God.

In the next few days, you’ll have plenty of opportunities either to overreact to your children’s behavior or to address the roots of their development, and to deal with externals or to train their hearts. Remember, you’re growing character here. It’s only the ones who grow strong at the center – especially as character is strengthened by commitment to God’s Word – who are able to hold up to the challenges they will face in life.

Live it: One of the biggest challenges to a parent is building character on the fly, in the midst of a busy schedule and a family with a multitude of different needs. Talk about how you can take advantage of natural teaching opportunities to train your children in how they should respond.

Pray: Pray for God to give you the discernment to know what issues need to be addressed and what issues you need to let go.

 

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 http://www.atthecrossings.com.

 

Straight Talk With Danice

By DANICE AKIYOSHI N.D.

 

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

My best friend is in a relationship with a woman who seems to be controlling every move he makes. Even his opinions on worldly matters have drastically changed to match hers. He looks unhappy, but he never complains. I hate seeing him this way so I don’t socialize much with them anymore. I can tell my friend is hurt and puzzled when we see each other at business events. Should I be honest about my feelings?

-Jason

Dear Jason:

Yes, be honest. Tell him your concerns. Make sure he knows he can count on you in times of crisis, but that you’re not interested in casual socializing with them as a couple. Do not put her down in any way, this is unnecessary. Be clear that you would like to see him whenever he can break away. Do your best to keep in touch and try to show up for his major life events.

-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.

 

Eastvale: Boy Scout Seeks Merit Badge

BY K.P. SANDER

 

communication_lgEastvale – The Eastvale Community News received the following letter and editorial piece from a local boy scout in search of a Merit Badge for Communications. We hereby print the [rather charming] information, per his request, and look forward to hearing that the badge was awarded accordingly.

Dear Editor:

My name is Josh Tolley. I’m 14 years old. I’m in troop 433 in Eastvale, California. I’m trying to earn my communications merit badge. I would appreciate you reading the following article, and consider it for publication.

-Sincerely, Josh Tolley

Dear Video Game Magazine Writers:

I would like to bring to your attention that it is Batman’s 75th Year Anniversary of being the greatest hero ever, and I would like you to publish something about this in your magazine. Here is a list I have made of the top ten best Batman videogames.

  • 10 – Batman Lego 2
  • 9 – Return of the Joker
  • 8 – Batman Vengeance
  • 7 – Gotham City Imposters
  • 6 – Adventures of Batman and Robin
  • 5 – Batman Returns (NES)
  • 4 – Adventures of Batman and Robin (NES)
  • 3 – Batman Returns 2 (NES)
  • 2 – Batman (NES)
  • 1 – Batman Arkham Asylum

#10, Batman Lego 2, was fun because you could destroy things left and right. There were 50 different playable characters and lots of recognizable places.

#9 was a very interesting storyline. The highlight of the game was that it was the first to have long-range weapons.

#8 had a great game play and a fantastic storyline. It had lots of gadgets and was very difficult.

#7 was kind of a mix of Tf2 and Call of Duty. It had the silliest combat of Batman you have ever seen.

With #6, you get to willingly select your gadgets. There are all the familiar criminals, and it is all about careful platforming and precision.

#5 is a side screen “beat ‘em up,” like the Ninja Turtles, with flying kicks, super moves and dash attacks.

With #4, you get to use Batman’s fists, his gadgets, and maybe a game genie, because it is a very difficult game.

In #3, Batman is a total beast in this game because he is stronger, fiercer, and brutal.

#2 is a very complicated game, but the wall mechanics help a lot. Batman is the big, bad bat, and he uses rocket-firing pistols, batarangs, and the bat.

#1 uses Batman’s stealth, brutality, gadgets, has the key voices from the animated series, and there are long combos you can put together with his gadgets.

Sincerely, Josh

Diamond Bar: Maple Hill Celebrates School Re-Opening

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Maple Hill Elementary staff celebrates at ribbon cutting. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

By KELLI GILE

 

Diamond Bar – On Sept. 3, Walnut Valley Unified School District threw a party to celebrate the completion of the modernization at Maple Hill Elementary.

“Thank you all for coming out and supporting us today on our very special, special day. It means so much to have so many people here that care about Maple Hill,” said Principal Nancy Stingley.

About 200 friends of the school including community members, parents, students, current and former staff, district and local officials attended the grand re-opening and ribbon-cutting ceremony.

“Maple Hill would not be the school that it is today without your support,” Stingley added. She recalled when staff members moved into a village of 29 portables for construction that began in June of 2013.

The school family stuck together, worked hard learning new Common Core curriculum, implemented a positive behavior intervention program, and proudly earned a 2014 California Distinguished School Award.

The remodeled campus officially opened its doors on August 18, on the first day of the 2014-2015 school year.

“This has been a fantastic journey for us. Today is a day of celebration and of new beginnings,” Stingley said at the ceremony.

Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor thanked community members for their support of the construction projects throughout the district.

“It takes so many people to see a project through – especially to its fruition like we have here at Maple Hill. For the kids in this community, I’m so glad you get to go to this beautiful school,” Taylor said.

“Now our Maple Hill students will have a physical environment that will match the learning environment, and they so deserve it!” Board President Cindy Ruiz added.

“We’ve been given an extraordinary gift. This building – our home – has been transformed, and we are so grateful,” said fourth grade teacher Tami Barry.

Teachers led small groups on a tour of their new school after the ribbon cutting.

 

Eastvale: Spa Care Repair Specialists

BY K.P. SANDER

sPA CAREEastvale – Spa Care Repair Specialists, located in Chino, specialize in providing pool services, parts and repairs. In business since 1979, they are dedicated to keeping your pool affordably clear and beautiful, and provide personalized services specific to your needs.

 

Owner, Larry Horton, says they are a family-owned company that focuses on providing every customer with honest, fair, quality service. All employees are professionally trained and skilled using the latest technology. The California contractor also has a history of manufacturing and installing pools and spas, which gives them the experience to be able to diagnose problems often missed by other technicians.

 

With 34 years of experience, they encourage the benefits of proper pool and spa maintenance. Horton says that pool owners dislike problems, but are often too busy to properly assess and repair the concerns associated with pool and spa equipment. “We get to use our experience and training to provide a win-win result”, he adds.

 

Spa Care Repair Specialists are open Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. They provide service for West Riverside County, West San Bernardino County, Orange County, and East Los Angeles County, and are bonded and insured (LIC# 559155). You can reach them at (909) 861-5973, or visit them online at www.spa-care.net.

 

Keep your in-ground or above-ground pool and spa ready for family fun year round. Contact Spa Care Repair Specialists today.

Eastvale Community News 09.2014 Complete Edition

2014-09-eastvale-news

The Eastvale Community News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco, Corona, and Chino. Click this link 2014-09-EastvaleAll to access the complete August issue in pdf format.

New Bicycle Safety Law

CALIFORNIA HIGHWAY PATROL

Sacramento – With children heading back to school, motorists should expect to see more children riding to and from school on

(photo courtesy: expatica.com)

(photo courtesy: expatica.com)

their bicycles. The California Highway Patrol (CHP) would like to remind the public that on Sept. 16, 2014, a new law affecting motorists and bicyclists takes effect. According to the law, a driver must allow three feet of distance when overtaking or passing a bicyclist. If three feet is not available, a driver must then slow to a safe speed and pass when no danger is present.

“Motorists are reminded to pay close attention as the school year approaches and exercise caution when they see bicyclists on the road,” said CHP Commissioner Joe Farrow. “Be sure to move over or slow down to pass when you see a bicyclist on the road and help keep our roadways a safer place.”

According to data from the Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System, in 2012, there were 153 bicyclists killed in California, which reflects a 7 percent increase from 2011. Those deaths accounted for 5 percent of the total collision fatalities in California. “As important as it is for vehicles to be mindful of our bicyclists, those who ride must exercise safe practices and ride smart,” added Commissioner Farrow. “With both drivers and bicyclists doing their part, we can help reduce the number of tragedies involving bicyclists.”

The danger surrounding motor vehicle traffic is just one aspect of a child’s safe passage to and from school. According to Safekids.org, more children ages 5 to 14 are seen in emergency rooms for injuries related to bicycling than any other sport. Bicycle helmets, which are required by law for children under 18 years of age in California, can reduce the risk of severe brain injuries by 88 percent – yet only 45 percent of children 14 and under usually wear them.

The CHP joins with Safekids.org in offering the following traffic safety tips for bicyclists:

  • “Use your head, wear a helmet.” It is the single most effective safety device available to reduce head injuries and deaths from bicycle crashes.
  • Tell your children to ride on the right side of the road with traffic, not against it. Stay as far to the right as possible.
  • Use appropriate hand signals and obey traffic signals, stopping at all stop signs and stoplights. Teach your children to make eye contact with drivers. Bicyclists should make sure drivers are paying attention and are going to stop before they cross the street.
  • When riding at dusk, dawn, or in the evening, be bright and use lights – and make sure your bike has reflectors as well. It is also smart to wear clothes and accessories that have retro-reflective materials to improve bicyclist visibility to motorists.
  • Actively supervise children until you are comfortable that they are responsible to ride on their own.

 

The mission of the California Highway Patrol is to provide the highest level of Safety, Service, and Security to the people of California.

Eastvale: Heartbreak For Eastvale With Three Drowning Accidents

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

James Pan

James Pan (Photo Courtesy: Facebook)

Eastvale – Eastvale has been rocked recently by two separate drowning tragedies. The first incident occurred on Tues., Aug. 12, in the 7200 block of Canopy Lane. According to the Riverside Sheriff’s Department, 7-year old James Pan had been playing in the backyard pool with a male adult and four other children ranging in age from six to 17. After several minutes passed, the adult noticed that one of the small children was unresponsive in the pool. Although Pan received CPR immediately, he was ultimately unable to be resuscitated. Pan died a few hours after he arrived at Kaiser Foundation Hospital in Ontario.

In another tragic accident, Jeterra Jones, 34, and her son, Jordan Millan, 2, were found deceased in a backyard swimming pool in the 6900 block of Farmall Way. According to a Press release from the Riverside Sheriff’s Department, Deputies arrived at the residence at 8:30 a.m. on Aug. 24 and immediately located the two individuals. At this time there are no signs of foul play and all evidence leads to this incident also being an accidental drowning.

The Riverside Sheriff’s Department reminds the public that pool submersions involving children happen very quickly and often there is no splashing to alert anyone that the child is in trouble. In order to prevent accidental drowning, parents and caregivers should constantly supervise children and install barriers such as doors, fences, gates with latches, audible alarms, or pool safety covers. During social gatherings at or near a swimming pool, a “designated watcher” should be appointed to protect young children from pool accidents. For more information regarding water and pool safety, please visit the Riverside County Injury Prevention Services online at http://www.rivcoips.org.