San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

 

Mariachi Divas Join Chino’s Mexican Independence Day Celebration

When: Friday, September 12, 6:30 to 9:30 p.m.

Where: City Hall Lawn, 13220 Central Avenue, Chino

Details: The City of Chino invites the public to the Mexican Independence Day Community Celebration. The Grammy-award winning Mariachi Divas will entertain the crowd; food booths, dance performances, children’s activities, and “El Grito,” an annual tradition commemorating the cry that led to the start of the Mexican Independence will all add to the fun.

Contact: Jack Morgan, (909) 334-3338; or visit www.cityofchino.org/communityservices.

 

Summit on Today’s Marriage and Family Life

When: September 12-14, 2014

Where: St. Lorenzo Ruiz Catholic Church, Walnut

Details: The changing world poses some great challenges to families of today in the context of evangelization. The church is responding to the challenge by providing a summit.

Contact: Honchee Natividad at honcheen@hotmail.com, or call the parish office at (909) 595-9545. RSVP by Sept. 1.

 

Flapjack Fundraiser

When: Saturday, Sept. 13; 8 to 10 a.m.

Where: Applebee’s, in Walnut

Details: A benefit for the Student Assistance Fund sponsored by Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church and School in Diamond Bar to help families that are struggling to have their children attend Mt. Calvary. Tickets are $10, and include a great breakfast of pancakes, scrambled eggs, bacon, country fries, coffee and juice.

Contact: For tickets and more information, call Sandy Hardin, (909) 595-0753.

 

Diamond Bar Library HUGE BOOK Sale

When: Saturday, Sept. 13, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Diamond Bar Library Windmill Room, 21800 Copley Drive

Details: There will be a members-only preview from 9 to 10 a.m., with a membership drive between 8:30 and 9 a.m. There will be thousands of desirable, high-quality books at rock-bottom prices. All proceeds directly benefit the library.

Contact: (909) 396-9954

 

Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Finale featuring the Simpsons!

When: Saturday, Sept. 13

Where: Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).

Details: Journey from the animated Springfield Bowl to the Hollywood Bowl for this unprecedented event as the famous orchestra accompanies your favorite scenes from the Simpsons on the big screen. Seats are located in Section F2, Rows 5, 6, and 7. The fee is $55 per person, appropriate for all ages.

Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.

 

Prescription Drug Take-Back Event

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

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

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

 

Wheel Food Fest

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

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

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

 

City of Hope Blood Drive

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

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

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

 

Free Intervention Information Sessions

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

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

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

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

 

Free ESL and Citizenship Classes

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

Where: 2100 Lerona Avenue, Rowland Heights

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

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

 

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Bookstore Blowout

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

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

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

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

 

Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second Tuesday of every month.

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

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

 

Free Acupuncture for Veterans, Active Military, First Responders

When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

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

Cost: Free

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

 

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

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

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

Cost: Free Admission/Parking

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

Contact: (909) 869-0701

 

Eastvale: Thank You Mega Mixer Sponsors

BY MICHAEL OFFUTT, DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC RELATIONS

 

Eastvale – The second annual Mega Mixer Business Expo, which was held on August 21 at the Eastvale Community Center, was a great success. It most certainly could not have happened without the support of our sponsors, and they deserve our thanks and appreciation.

 

Chairman’s Sponsor: Goodman Birtcher

Platinum Sponsor: Lewis Retail Centers

Silver Sponsors: Allegra; Walter’s Mercedes Benz

Bronze Sponsor: Southern California Edison

Business Sponsors: The Joint…the chiropractic place; Nutrishop Eastvale; Waddell and Reed; Corona Regional Medical Center; Waste Management; The McLeod Group; Arrowhead Credit Union; Lennar; Great Harvest Bread Co.;

In-Kind Sponsors: Eastvale Community News; Satin Dreams Photography

Networking Table Sponsors: Destined To Travel; Premiere Insurance

 

We would also like to say thank you to our over 45 exhibitors that came out and contributed to the success of the event. We look forward to hosting this event again next year. This is just one of the many events that the Chamber will continue to host in order to assist Eastvale businesses in succeeding.

 

West Covina Freeway Construction Underway

STAFF REPORTS

 

west-covina-freeway-construction-carpool-lanes

Just over four miles of carpool lanes are being built on the I-10 freeway. (Photo Courtesy: California Department of Transportation)

SGV – The Interstate 10 Freeway always seems to be jam-packed, and one area in particular will see more congestion before it gets better…but it will hopefully be worth the wait.

Construction of a High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV or carpool) lane, as well as the widening of bridges and ramp realignments along the I-10 in both directions between Puente Avenue and Citrus Street in the areas of West Covina and Baldwin Park, is now underway. This roadway carries a substantial amount of traffic, and the anticipated 4.1 miles of carpool lane is designed to add more capacity and improve traffic flow.

According to the California Department of Transportation, this is the second of three projects that will ultimately provide one continuous HOV lane from downtown Los Angeles to San Bernardino County.

This $193 million project will not only increase capacity, but will also help to reduce congestion by encouraging carpooling, thereby reducing energy consumption and helping to improve air quality. Sound walls will also be constructed to help mitigate traffic noise at various locations, which will help improve the quality of life for residents currently affected.

Construction, which began in June, is currently active near West Covina Parkway and Azusa Avenue. This project is scheduled for completion in the spring of 2019. Visit http://www.dot.ca.gov for updates of any roadway closures during construction.

 

Eastvale: City Council Recap

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – This month there were two City Council meetings. The first meeting was held on August 13 at Rosa Parks Elementary. All Council members were in attendance and the meeting started at 6:30 p.m. Pastor Rob Norris from The Crossings church led the invocation, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by new council member, Joe Tessari.

There were no presentations or announcements. During the public comment section of the meeting, Cynthia Ravaro, a resident of Eastvale, addressed the council. Ravaro has lived in Eastvale for many years and has been the victim of excessively loud noises coming from parties held at a home in her neighborhood. These parties have been going on for three years and she felt the Police Department should be doing more about it. The decibel level is reportedly so high in her house that even with the television on high and all her windows shut, she can still hear the noise. She pleaded with Council to help her find some type of resolution

Todd Corbin with JCSD reported to the Council about actions that would need to take place in response to the recent state drought regulations passed by Governor Brown. JCSD will need to come up with a water shortage plan and an ordinance to comply with these regulations. More information about this issue can be found on their website at http://www.jcsd.us. Once JCSD prepares their plan, it will be brought back to Council for review.

The Consent Calendar was approved 5-0, with the exception of item 5.3, an update on the City’s Strategic Plan. The item was pulled because new information was recently requested and staff needed time to update for accuracy.

There were no Public Hearings or Old Business Items.

The New Business section of the meeting included Item 8.1, which was tabled for discussion at a later date. Items 8.2 through 8.4 were passed, 5-0. Item 8.5, the approval of the City’s Local Hazard Mitigation Plan was also approved, 5-0. This resolution is for Eastvale’s eligibility for state and federal funding in the event of a major disaster. Even though the City is in the process of updating the plan, the approval was needed to ensure coverage for Eastvale. Item 8.6 was for the purchase of a Paramedic Squad for Eastvale Fire Services in the amount of $151,565. The cost was already included in the 2013-2014 budget, and the Item was approved, 5-0.

For Item 8.7, Temporary Signs in the Public Right of Way, an ordinance was passed earlier this year outlining guidelines for when and where signs may be placed on public property. This ordinance applies to campaign signs as well. There have been some issues with this as candidates who are not well known rely on signage to get their names out into the community. After much discussion, the ordinance will remain as is until another solution can possibly be found.

Item 8.8 discussed the Chain of Command in the City of Eastvale. It was decided that in the event the City Manager is unable to accomplish assigned duties due to an emergency event or vacancy, the City Attorney will be the next in command.

Item 8.9, called for an amendment to the 2014-2015 budget to fund crossing guards for the intersections at Peach Blossom and Scholar Way, as well as Scholar Way and Baltimore Street. This item passed, 5-0. Items 8.10 through 8.12 also passed, 5-0. There was not a City Manager’s Report.

In Council Communications, council members Tessari and Welch expressed their condolences over the passing of Lt. Patrick Libertone. The Meeting was adjourned at 8:40 p.m.

The second City Council meeting of the month was held on August 27, with all council members present. The invocation was led by Pastor Tim Eaton of Edgewater Lutheran Church. There were a few presentation’s given by the City. Certificates of Appreciation were given to the National Night Out Participants: WOLFF, Target, Eastvale Community Foundation, Tequila 88, and the volunteers from the Riverside Sheriff’s Department. Rollin Edmunds gave a presentation regarding school boundaries in the Corona-Norco Unified School District. Sharyn Link, with the Eastvale Community Foundation, gave an update and announced the two newest board members. City Manager, Carol Jacobs, gave an update for the Public Safety Commission, as they were unable to attend.

During the Public Comment/Citizen Participation section of the meeting, Dickie Simmons asked the Council to reconsider making any decisions regarding the City Manager position so close to an upcoming election. Mr. Simmons cited that many cities have a policy of not making decisions concerning City Managers within 60 to 90 days of an election.

Mangie Rios with the 88 iMPACT Foundation thanked the community for attending the first annual iMPACT Festival. They had over 30 vendors, 400 participants, and are excited to be working on several other future events. They also presented the Military Banner Program with a check for $1,419.76, enough to pay for eight more military banners.

The Consent Calendar was approved, 5-0. There were no Public Hearings.

In the Old Business Section of the meeting, Items 7.1 through 7.5 were approved, 5-0.

In the New Business Section of the meeting, Item 8.1, an agreement to enter into a professional agreement for Architectural and Engineering Services with WLC Architects for Eastvale Fire Station 2, in the amount of $436,000, was approved, 5-0.

For Item 8.2, staff asked the Council permission to close City Hall on Columbus Day to allow the staff a day for Records Retentions. With the amount of plans and other public record items increasing, staff felt the need to take an entire day to concentrate on organizing and properly handling the items. Council asked them to consider doing this on a Friday when the office is already closed to the public. The Item was continued to the next meeting.

Items 8.3 through 8.8 were also discussed. After brief comments and exchanges between the council members and the City staff, the meeting was adjourned. For a more in-depth look at the agenda please visit http://www.cityofeastvale.com.

 

Industry: Sex Offender Compliance Op Nets 3

STAFF REPORTS

Industry – The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Industry Station has issued a report that should give local residents some reassurance. On Fri., Aug. 29, the Special Victims Bureau – Sexual Assault Felony Enforcement Team (SAFE Team), in collaboration with the California Department of Corrections Rehabilitation and the United States Marshal Service, executed a sex offender home compliance and parole operation in the area under the Industry station’s jurisdiction.

The reported stated that 16 sexual registrants were contacted, and in order to ensure compliance their homes and computers were searched to make certain they were following the terms of their parole. Three of these registrants were found to be in violation, and they were arrested and booked at the Industry station.

The SAFE Team identifies, monitors, arrests and assists in the prosecution of habitual sexual offenders who violate the terms and conditions of their probation or parole, or who fail to comply with the registration requirements of the California Penal Code, or who commit new sexual assault offenses through proactive investigations and surveillances. This program leads to the arrest of habitual sexual offenders. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department currently monitors approximately 3,582 registered sex offenders.

Eastvale: 9/11 Memorial Ceremony and Moment of Silence

Staff Reports

 Eastvale – It doesn’t seem possible that 13 years have passed since the horrific events of Sept. 11, 2001 permanently changed the face of our nation. The City of Eastvale will join organizations and individuals across the country and across the globe to remember and honor the thousands of innocent men, women, and children killed through acts of terrorism.

The City of Eastvale will hold a 9/11 Memorial Ceremony and Moment of Silence on Thurs., Sept. 11, 2014 at Eastvale Fire Station 27, located at 7067 Hamner Avenue. The ceremony will begin promptly at 6:59 a.m.

Please join our Eastvale Firefighters, Eastvale Police Department, City Council members and staff as they observe a moment of silence in honor of the heroes and victims of 9/11.

As a special commemoration, the Eastvale Firefighters and Police Officers will gather together in uniform at the base of the Fire Station 27 flag pole, and stand at attention during the posting of the American Flag at exactly 0659 hours PST (the time of the collapse of the south tower). The American Flag will be posted by Eastvale Boy Scout Troop 2012 and Cub Scout Pack 803. The Eastvale safety personnel and all in attendance shall observe a full moment of silence.

Let us come together as a community for the 13th Anniversary of 9/11 to honor, remember and reunite. This event is open to the public and citizens are encouraged to attend. Coffee and donuts will be available after the ceremony.

For more information about the events of September 11, 2001, please visit the National September 11 Memorial & Museum website at www.911memorial.org.

 

 

 

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 09.06.14

The Weekly 09.06.14

 

The 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 Sept6WeeklyAll to access the complete Sept 6th issue in pdf format.

Eastvale: Meet New Councilman Tessari

Staff Reports

Bio Courtesy City of Eastvale

city-councimember-joe-tessari

Last month, Joseph M. Tessari was voted unaminously to be Eastvale’s newest councilmember. (Photo Courtesy: Joe Tessari)

Eastvale – Recently selected to replace Jeff DeGrandpre at the August 6 City Council meeting – by unanimous vote – Joseph M. Tessari has taken the vacant council seat in Eastvale to fill the remainder of the term.

Tessari is a Marine Corps veteran who served with the Infantry and Military police. He is a Pennsylvania native who became a resident of California in 1987.  Tessari worked as an independent contractor in the real estate appraisal industry before being appointed as a Los Angeles County Deputy Sheriff in 1995. He currently works as a Detective for LASD, and is committed to a higher quality, proactive law enforcement presence in our community.

Tessari moved to the Eastvale area with his wife, Lanee, and their three children in 2006.  All of their children have attended or currently attend Eastvale Elementary, River Heights Intermediate and Roosevelt High.

Tessari was a proponent of Eastvale’s incorporation and served as one the City’s first Planning Commissioners until August 2014.  His new term as a City Council member will end in November 2016.

Tessari frequently volunteers in the community.  He is a board member for the Eastvale Kiwanis Club, and has served as the club’s President for the past two years.  He is a volunteer in his church and an active member of our community.  Tessari can be found at most local community events enjoying the company of fellow residents.

Moving forward, Tessari believes the City needs to remain focused on economic development, superior public safety, and fiscal responsibility.

Walnut Valley Water District Adopts Mandatory Conservation

WALNUT VALLEY WATER DISTRICT

lake-oroville-reservoir

Lake Oroville reservoir in Northern California, seen here in early 2014, is at 30% of capacity. (Photo Courtesy: California Department of Water Resources)

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Water District Board of Directors voted at their August 18 meeting to adopt a Stage 1 Water Supply Shortage. This action comes in response to the state’s ongoing drought and the recently enacted emergency regulations by the State Water Resources Control Board establishing statewide mandatory water use restrictions. These enhanced restrictions become effective August 28. Stage 1 restrictions are intended to further curtail outdoor water use which accounts for more than one half of a typical family’s monthly usage.

Adoption of the mandatory conservation measures are a result of the serious statewide drought impacting the entire State of California. Governor Jerry Brown declared a drought-related ‘State of Emergency’ in January of 2014. Since that time, California has experienced one of the driest snowpack and fourth lowest runoff in 100 years. As a result, mandatory water conservation measures are being implemented throughout the state. Some of the conservation measures in the Stage 1 include:

Limits on Watering Hours: watering your lawn or landscaping is prohibited between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M.

  • Obligation to Fix Leaks, Breaks, or Malfunctions: All leaks, breaks, or other malfunctions in the water user’s plumbing or distribution system must be repaired within five (5) days.
  • No Excessive Water Flow or Runoff: Watering any landscaped area cannot cause excessive water flow or runoff onto the sidewalk or street.
  • No Washing Down Hard or Paved Surfaces: Washing down hard or paved surfaces, such as sidewalks or driveways, is prohibited.
  • Limits on Washing Vehicles: Using a hose to wash a vehicle is prohibited, except by use of a hand-held hose equipped with a shut-off nozzle.
  • Drinking Water Served Upon Request Only: Eating or drinking establishments, including but not limited to a restaurant, hotel, cafe, cafeteria, bar, or other public places, will not provide drinking water to any person unless expressly requested.
  • Option to Decline Daily Linen Services at Commercial Lodging Establishments: Hotels, motels, and other commercial lodging establishments are encouraged to provide customers the option of not having towels and linen laundered daily.
Lake Oroville reservoir 2011 and 2014

Lake Oroville reservoir, seen here in 2011 (top) and in 2014 (bottom). The reservoir is one of the largest in California. (Photo Courtesy: California Department of Water Resources)

In 2009, the District adopted Ordinance No. 06-09-07, An Ordinance of the WVWD to Establish Water Use Efficiency Requirements and Water Supply Shortage Stages, to assist in managing our water supply. The ordinance has four stages, each with more progressively restrictive uses of water. The stages are enacted based on both short- and long-term water supplies and Board approval. WVWD for many years has encouraged voluntary conservation by keeping in effect since 2009 “Permanent Water Use Efficiency Requirements” that contained very similar restrictions as Stage 1 in preventing water waste.

When asked about the Board decision to adopt the mandatory water-saving measures, Board President, Barbara Carrera, noted, “Our District customers have done an excellent job using water wisely over the years. In light of the state’s current drought situation and the State Board’s recent adoption of the emergency conservation regulations, we must all take the extra step to save even more.” President Carrera went on to state that, “The District’s Board of Directors genuinely appreciates the efforts of all our customers to work together and save water wherever possible. Everyone working together to save water can make a very big difference in conserving our precious water supplies.”

The District’s customers for many years have reduced local water usage — we are asking for everyone to do a little more.

For questions about the new mandatory conservation measures or to learn more ways to save water, visit the District’s website at wvwd.com, or call customer service at (909) 595-1268.

Eastvale: Help The Kids and Save On Your Next Mattress

Roosevelt High School is holding it 4th Annual Mattress Sales Fundraiser on Sunday, September 21st, 2014 at Roosevelt High School from 10am to 5pm.  If you’re in need of a new mattress, don’t miss this opportunity to save 40%-50% off retail prices.  All profits from this event go directly to the students.

roosevelt-high-school-mattress-sale-fundraiser

Eastvale: Notice of Street Construction – Update

City of Eastvale

 

Local ConstructionEastvale – We are pleased to inform you that the City of Eastvale has awarded a contract to All American Asphalt to provide slurry seal treatment on Archibald Avenue and on various residential streets in your neighborhood. The project will consist of minor asphalt pavement removal & replacement, crack seal, slurry seal and striping.

The Slurry Seal Project will be started Sept. 8, and will be completed by the end of September.  Please be watchful of the following: Work Hours 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday.

There will be “No Parking Signs” posted on your street indicating the specific dates work will be performed on the street. During working days and hours, we appreciate your cooperation in the following matters:

  • Please comply with all parking restrictions and assist us by not parking your vehicles in the roadway. Vehicles parked in a posted “No Parking” will be towed at the owner’s expense and will prolong the construction process.
  • Please assist us by not allowing water to run onto the roadway, including irrigation.
  • Do not place trash cans or other debris in the roadway, with the exception of trash collection day (trash service will not be interrupted).
  • Tools, materials and equipment are attractive to children. For safety of the children, please keep them away from the project site at all times.

We will endeavor to complete this work as rapidly as possible and with a minimum of inconvenience to you. Below is the breakdown of the schedule that All American Asphalt will be following in the application of slurry seal for the week of Sept. 8:  Area “A” : Wed., Sept. 10 & Thurs., Sept. 11  Area “B”: Thurs., Sept. 11 & Fri., Sept. 12  Area “C”: Fri., Sept. 12   Area “D”: Wed., Sept. 10 & Thurs., Sept. 11  Area “E”: Thurs., Sept. 11  Area “F”: Fri., Sept. 12  **Schedule updates will be provided as they become available. Note: Dates are subject to change. For actual dates please refer to door hanger notifications and parking restrictions that will be provided in your area 72-hours prior to the start of the slurry seal application.  If you have any questions, please call Craig Stubbe, City Inspector, at (714) 504-9274, or All American Asphalt at (951) 736-7627. Your cooperation and patience during this process will be greatly appreciated.

Rowland High School’s 50th Jubilee

BY GINA K. WARD
Rowland Heights – Community Support Needed for Volunteer Event: The entire community is invited on Fri., Sept. 26, to celebrate Rowland High School’s 50th Anniversary with a fun-filled, community jubilee!

With a bow to its beginnings when Rowland was a small community where students were just as likely to ride a horse to school as drive a car, the 50th Jubilee will boast a good ole’ fashioned Country/Western theme. Everyone is invited: alumni, students, parents, faculty/staff (past and present), and community members. The campus will be filled with activities such as food booths to tantalize a variety of tastes, game booths, entertainment, a trip down memory lane, and tours of the new modernized facilities will begin at 3:15 p.m. Afterward, everybody is invited to the stadium to cheer the Rowland Raiders football team on to victory at 7 p.m.

Rowland High School Principal, Mitch Brunyer, is in charge of the volunteer committee. “Being a lifelong Raider as a student, teacher, and now principal of the school, I am very proud of its history and traditions. I look forward to highlighting the school and its connection to the community – we hope everyone can help support and attend this community event!”

Please help with this gala by donating funds and/or goods. All contributions are tax-deductible. Banners are available for purchase ($250-$1,000) for display outside the Rowland High School Tom Aney Stadium for the entire school year. Contact ASB Director, Leslie Phillips, at (626)965-3448, ext. 3323, or lphillips@rowland.k12.ca.us. For more information, visit www.rowlandhs.org.

 

FOOD & DRINK ITEMS IN NEED                                    SAMPLE OF OTHER ITEMS

Water bottles Toys & giveaways for game booths
Hot dogs/hot dog bunsHamburgers/hamburger Buns Paint (cans of red, yellow, blue, green, orange, purple, black, and white)
Condiments Brushes, rollers, & paint trays
Soda, lemonade, ice tea Plywood
Individual bags of chips Poles/logs for hitching post & directional signs
Fruit or fruit trays Tall metal stakes to hang lanterns
Veggie trays Hay bales
Rolls of blue & white checkered table covers Plastic sleeves for scrapbooking
Paper plates & napkins Adhesive (Tombow) for scrapbooking pictures
Napkins & silverware (clear plastic) Picture canvas/framed/acid free pen
Troughs for ice/drink storage Mannequins, scarecrows/t-type poles to display clothing
                DECORATION ITEMS 2 x 4 – 20 ft. STD/BRT Premium Doug Fir (need 6)
Any Country Western items/style decor 2 x 4 – 12 ft. STD/BRT Premium Doug Fir (need 28)
Old wagon wheels 2 x 4 – 16 ft. STD/BTR Premium Doug Fir (need 21)
Fake horses for hitching post
Wine barrels to use for tables
Cowboy hats
Electrical spools for tables

 

 

Walnut Valley: Superintendent Takes ALS Ice Bucket Challenge

BY KELLI GILE

 

Dr. Bob Taylor, superintendent of the Walnut Valley Unified School District took the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge on August 22. See the video at www.wvusd.k12.ca.us. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Dr. Bob Taylor, superintendent of the Walnut Valley Unified School District took the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge on August 22. See the video at http://www.wvusd.k12.ca.us. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

Walnut – Dr. Bob Taylor, Superintendent of the Walnut Valley Unified School District, accepted the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge on Fri., Aug. 22.

The Ice Bucket Challenge phenomenon is spreading ALS awareness across the nation. People are taking the challenge and making a donation to help create a world without ALS. To date, ice bucket donations have reached $53.3 million.

The district leader was challenged by Jeff Jordan, Principal at Walnut High School, who took the challenge during football practice on August 21.

Taylor announced the surprise event at the end of a morning staff meeting, and about 50 employees gathered outside the District Office to cheer in support. Before getting soaked, he nominated his three assistant superintendents – Dr. Matt Witmer, Dr. Michelle Harold, and Jeanette Ullrich. They had 24 hours to accept the challenge.

Grounds Workers, Paul Moravec and Eric Sims, were chosen to pour several gallons of icy water on their boss.

“We were a little nervous,” they both admitted.

“I just didn’t want to drop it [the plastic tub] on his head!” Moravec added.

Help fight ALS and take the #IceBucketChallenge. For more information about the ALS Association or to make a donation, please visitwww.alsa.org.

 

 

 

Great Things Are Possible If You Believe In Yourself

BY NANCY STOOPS

 

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

What is it that seems to set you apart from somebody you consider a successful human being? Do you find yourself always doubting your capabilities? Are you really willing to always settle for less than you really deserve? Don’t you understand that you have wings and that you really could fly if you just believed in who you are and how capable you are?

Please trust me when I tell you that there are no limits except the ones that are self imposed. You can be and have whatever you desire if you set goals and just keep moving toward them. If you do this, after a while you will be who you want to be and have the wonderful life that you are so very deserving of.

Right now this very moment make a promise to yourself that you refuse to settle anymore. Today is the day that you will change that mindset that allows you to always be less and have less of a life than you desire. Today is the day that you will discover your wings and each and every day from now on you will discover how to fly.

I want you to become the author of your very own fabulous script for your life. Tomorrow is much too long to wait because all you really have is today. Stop deceiving yourself and start being somebody you are proud of. I know if you tell yourself the truth you will grow into somebody you really want to be.

I have witnessed the transformation of many and have had the honor of helping in the process as well. Just know that I have faith in you and I know you can grow into who you are intended to be.

Learning Your Letters

By Pastor Mark Hopper

 

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

Some of our grandchildren have been in the area for a few weeks and we’ve really enjoyed our time with them.

One day, we went down to the beach and had a fun day swimming in the ocean and playing in the sand.  They loved digging holes and building castles. We also drew pictures and shapes in the wet sand.  They loved to watch the waves come in and erase what we had drawn.

At one point, I started writing the letters of the alphabet in the sand with the flat side of a small plastic shovel.  I was amazed to hear my little granddaughter reciting the name of each letter as I drew them.

Now, I know that every parent and every grandparent thinks that their kids are exceptionally smart.  But I think that my grandkids are even smarter! I was so amazed that a child so young already knew every letter by name.  Maybe this is normal, but I doubt it.  Who would have thought that a 2-year old would know and recognize every letter in the alphabet?

I’m sure that her parents should get much of the credit. I know they read books and stories every night before bed. And, I know that kids learn a lot of educational things by watching TV and children’s DVDs, too.

I don’t know how old your children or grandchildren are, but let me encourage you to start reading to them and helping them discover the joy of learning their letters. Letters become words and words become stories.  Stories become books and books become adventures.

There are few gifts that you can give to your children and grandchildren that are more valuable than the gift of reading.  Don’t wait for others to do the job for you.  Start today to help those little ones learn those letters.

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.

 

 

Summer is Over, Let the Stress Begin

BY PASTOR MARK LEE

Pastor Mark Lee Vantage Point Church

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point Church in Eastvale

As the temperatures decrease, the days become shorter, and the kids return to school, one thing becomes increasingly clear: summer is over.

For a brief period of time, many of us are excited to get back to our regular routines. We look forward to everything getting “back to normal” until the reality of “normal” kicks in. Suddenly, we find ourselves just as stressed as we were before summer began.

Did you know that the average office worker currently has approximately 36 hours of work piled on his or her desk? Or, that the average person now sleeps two hours less per night than they did 100 years ago? In fact, people are so busy these days that frozen juice sales have plummeted simply because nobody has the time to wait for it to defrost.

While stress is a part of life and many of us work best under pressure, problems arise when we allow it to get too intense or go on for too long. Being busy and under pressure negatively affects our health and damages relationships. However, reducing stress and improving your life is much more complicated than getting rid of a few obligations. The real key is identifying what it is that makes you push yourself so hard. Often, our desire to become someone better or be something more is what drives us to over commit.

1 Peter 5:6 says, “Humble yourselves under God’s mighty hand that he may lift you up in due time.” We need to shift our focus from what we wish we were to what God wants us to become. By handing over the control and allowing God to advance us in His time, we can achieve true happiness.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 8:30, 10, and 11:30 a.m.

 

Walnut Valley: Best High Schools In America

 BY KELLI GILE

 

Diamond bar seniors

Diamond Bar High School Class of 2014 Super Star Seniors Steven Gomez, Claire Huang, Jane Wu, and Vrajesh Shah. (Photo Courtesy: Kelli Gile)

 

Walnut – Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) is pleased to announce that both Diamond Bar and Walnut high schools have been ranked in the top 100 of all high schools in America, by the Daily Beast publication.

Diamond Bar High School ranked #54 overall in the nation, and #7 in California. They also scored in the top 100 in specific categories of Rigor, Graduation Rates, and ACT/SAT scores.

Walnut High School ranked #97 overall in the nation and #11 in California.  They also scored in the top 100 in the specific category of Rigor.

This is a remarkable achievement when considering it’s estimated that there are more than 30,000 public and private high schools across the country. It also appears that WVUSD is the only school district in California with two high schools in the top 100 in the nation.

“This is an incredible achievement for our schools and entire community,” Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor stated. “It is a reflection of the relentless commitment to student achievement on behalf of our Board of Trustees, staff, students, parents, and community.  And, to be what appears as the only school district in California with two high schools ranked in the top 100 nationally is a tribute to the “Kids First” attitude throughout our K-12 community.”

Principals Catherine Real at Diamond Bar High, and Jeff Jordan at Walnut High, received notification of the prestigious national recognition on Wed., Aug. 27.

“Our ranking is a result of our hard work with our students, our excellent staff, our supportive community, and the commitment to responsibly increase access to rigorous courses to a greater number of students,” Real said.

“I am so proud of our Walnut High staff for this accomplishment. It definitely reflects the hard work and dedication that takes place on this campus.  Our school has always taken a team approach to do what is best for our students. Both certificated and classified staffs take pride to provide great service to our students,” Jordan said.

The Daily Beast publication uses six indicators taken from school surveys to compare public high schools in the United States, with graduation and college acceptance rates weighed most heavily. Other criteria included college-level courses and exams, percentage of students with free or reduced lunch, and SAT and ACT scores.  The full results can be viewed at http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2014/08/27/america-s-top-high-schools.html.

 

 

The God Who Sees You

BY PASTOR TIM EATON

 

pastor -tim-eaton-edgewater-lutheren

PastorTim Eaton-Edgewater Lutheren

Do you feel overlooked, forgotten, invisible, or underappreciated? Does it seem like no one understands what you are going through?

There is at least one person who takes note of you, and what you are going through. We remember the song about Santa Clause, “He sees you when you’re sleeping, he knows when you’re awake…” Maybe it sounds a little creepy. It strikes enough fear in children to get them to behave for a month or so. But in Exodus we discover God sees us for a very different reason: “The Lord said, I have indeed seen the misery of my people in Egypt. I have heard them crying out because of their slave drivers, and I am concerned about their suffering,” (Exodus 3:7). What a different understanding of seeing – not to judge, but to care and assist.

Maybe no one on earth has noticed, but God has taken note of your life and he has done so with compassion. After God sees the misery of His people in Exodus, Chapter 3, He takes action. Because of his concern for his dearly loved people He performs one of the greatest acts of deliverance by having them march out of slavery right through the middle of a sea, yet on dry ground.

Make no mistake, God sees you. And He is not just an onlooker. He will participate lovingly in the story of your life, because he cares for you.

Ladies, be inspired by the God who sees you at the Edgewater “Pearls of Wisdom” Women’s Luncheon, coming to Eastvale on September 27th. It will feature guest speaker, Tammy Maltby, author of “The God Who Sees You.” See the ad on this page for more information.

K-NewEdgewater

 

It’s Been Five Years Without You

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

 

WARNING: Tissues are required.

 

A Letter To My Mom: It’s been five years since we lost you. Five long and sad years in which I haven’t heard your voice, felt your hug and smelled your scent. It’s been five years since you looked in my eyes; five years since I held your hand; five years since I brushed your hair; and five years since I felt your heart beat for the last time.

It’s been five years since we laid you to your final rest, with roses and butterflies gently landing on you as we lowered you into the ground. Five years since we watched each shovel of soil cover you farther away from us. It’s been five years since we struggled to come up with the perfect gravestone, trying to sum up such a wonderful life in 120 characters or less.

It’s been five years since I whispered in your ear, “You can go, I’ll take care of them.” Five years since I took your place dancing with your son in what should have been your dance. It’s been five years since my measure of time didn’t always include, “before my mom died.” It’s been five years since our world stood still, but the people around us didn’t seem to understand and went on living.

It’s been five years since I’ve really taken a deep breath and not felt the little sting of that hollow part of my heart. It’s been five years.

But…it’s been three years since your fourth grandson came along and brightened our world with his smile. It’s been one year since your fifth grandson came along and did the same. I look at my two newest nephews and I see you there in their smiles, their silly laughs and their eyes. I see you in the eyes of Isaiah, and remember all the fun you had with me when I was a teenager and drove you crazy. I hear you in the way Andrew always messes up his words, just like you used to do. And I feel you in the long, far-off gazes that Nicholas gives out of nowhere. I know you are there with him, guiding him along.

So although it’s been five years without you, it really hasn’t. You may not be physically here anymore, but you are still here. You are here in every smile on the face of your five grandsons. You are here with your son as he guides his young boys and shares his stories of you. You are there every time I look in the mirror and your eyes look back at me. So even though it’s been five years since we lost you, we’re all doing okay.

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Find out about the signs and symptoms by visiting http://www.ovariancancer.org

 

 

 

 

 

 

Inland Empire: What You DON’T See Is What You Get

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

 

Business-feature-brown-insurance

For questions about your Business Insurance Policy, Grace Buencamino with George L Brown Insurance Agency can be reached at (909) 973-8233 or GBuencamino@georgebrowninsurance.com.

Inland Empire – When Daniel started his carpet cleaning business six years ago, he had to get insurance. So he did, and he faithfully paid his premiums every month. Unfortunately, Daniel’s business was burglarized, but he had no need to worry; he was fully covered and he had never missed a payment in nearly six years. Then Daniel found out some very disturbing news.

Daniel’s insurance company gladly filed his claim. The reports were all in order and the estimate of $16,839 was right in line with specifications. But Daniel only received a check for $3,000. He had no idea his policy coverage for theft or fire had a limit of $3,500, with a $500 deductible.

“It’s common for a business, especially a small business, to be under-insured,” said Grace Buencamino, a longtime broker at George L. Brown Insurance. “You need a proactive agent who will periodically go over your coverage with you to ensure your business is adequately covered.”

Buencamino also points out that it’s not always the client’s fault for not knowing their policy limits.

“Sometimes a business will outgrow their coverage,” she says. “I’ve seen businesses who thought they had adequate coverage. The business owner didn’t realize that after five years, the company had acquired more equipment, increasing their Business Property from $3,000 to $20,000. To avoid my clients being under-insured, I do an annual review of their policy. Changes in Business Property can be discovered during this review and the policy limits can be changed at very little cost.”

Buencamino also said that by working closely with the business owner, she can get a better understanding of their needs and work with them to limit their exposures. She encourages clients to contact her if they make any changes to their business that may affect their current coverage.

One advantage of consulting with a broker, they can find the best priced insurance to meet your needs, whether they are “rate driven” or “coverage driven”. A broker can shop multiple carriers and bring you the options you deserve.

If you have questions about your Business Insurance Policy, Grace Buencamino with George L. Brown Insurance Agency can be reached at (909) 973-8233 or GBuencamino@georgebrowninsurance.com.