Orange County Toll Roads: Thousands of Violations?

STAFF REPORTS

 

(Photo Courtesy: Online.com)

(Photo Courtesy: Online.com)

Orange County – The website, www.thetollroads.com, states, “Sign up and drive today! With the end of cash toll collection, now all drivers enjoy a nonstop, stress free, time saving, reliable commute on The Toll Roads.” However, the “stress free” part might be a bit of a premature tagline.

In recent reports there have been as many as 17,000 violations in a single day since Orange County toll roads recently eliminated manned cash-collecting toll booths and became all electronic. Because of this transition, some of the fees are being waived for first-timers, but toll agencies are going to start enforcing penalties soon enough.

The Transportation Corridor Agency has eliminated the manpower in favor of electronic signaling for which commuters can utilize a special transponder, or pre-pay tolls online. There are always violations that occur in the toll roads, but the new system is obviously a source of mass confusion. Many drivers have been reported pulled over on the side of the road near the electronic booths trying to figure out what to do. With an estimated 250,000 motorists using the four Orange County toll roads each day, that’s a lot of perplexity.

If you sign up for an account online and provide bank or credit card debit access, you can receive a transponder and not worry too much about it. Those without accounts are required to pay one-time tolls online within 48 hours of their usage or suffer the consequences.

The agencies are trying to educate consumers on the new system and assist with the transition. For now they are said to be waiving the $57.50 violation penalty fee through Labor Day, as long as the toll is paid within a 30 day time frame. They are also installing more signage, and flashing information on nearby freeway information boards to help guide those heading for the toll booths.

It makes sense that the confusion has added significantly to the number of calls coming into the toll agencies. They have temporarily increased customer service representatives to help alleviate the backlog and provide assistance.

Visit wwwthetollroads.com to gather more information. You can pay online, or even download their payment app, One-Time Toll, to help you on your way. Just remember, don’t stop at the booth, just head on through or you’ll hold up the line. If you go through a toll booth, you’ll have to pay it in some fashion. With a little patience and education, it can be penalty-free.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Walnut: Council Corner Aug 13, 2014

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – Walnut’s City Council met on Aug. 13 for its first regular meeting of the month, which saw a long-awaited public discussion about Mt. SAC’s traffic congestion.

Councilmember, Eric Ching, was absent, as he was on vacation during the time of the meeting.

After starting the meeting with an invocation given by High Priest Felix Michael from the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints, the council moved to approve the minutes for council’s July 23 meeting.

The council then moved to approve its three public hearing items, including Resolution No. 14-37 for the City’s congestion management program; Resolution No.14-41 for an amendment to Specific Plan 02-2004 for the mixed use senior housing at 780 and 808 Francesca Drive; and Resolution No. 14-38 for a conditional use permit for DiMiYa HeadStart Learning Center at 352 N. Lemon Avenue.

Derrick Womble, Senior Management Analyst, gave the staff report for the congestion management program which outlined the City’s development activity and transportation improvements.

Councilmember, Bob Pacheco, asked if Mt. SAC’s new parking structure – which has recently come under fire with concerns of traffic congestion – was exempt from the City’s congestion management program. Tom Weiner, Director of Community Development, stated that the classroom and office buildings were taken into account for the program because they house people, while the parking structure does not, since it is considered a parking lot. Weiner said the adoption of the program would be a boon for the City, since they would receive funds from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority going toward repairing City streets.

Next was the amendment for the proposed mixed use senior housing at 780 and 808 Francesca Drive, with Weiner stating that the amendments up for discussion were the reduction of units from 86 to 71, a reduction of commercial square footage, minor design changes, and reduction of affordable units.

When the public hearing opened up, Brion Costa, for the Francesca Projects, said the construction was a long time coming and that he was grateful that with the City’s help, the project is closing in on a groundbreaking date.

The final item for public hearing was the conditional use permit for DiMiYa HeadStart Learning Center, which was originally denied based on an unsafe loading and unloading situation.

Based on the need for safety, the council approved the item based on the condition that DiMiYa create an additional two parking spots in front of the store for loading and unloading passengers.

After the public hearing, the council went onto approve the items on the consent calendar for Resolution No. 14-39 for claims and demands in the amount of $502,701.41; Resolution No. 14-42 for supporting water conservation; approval of a contract with Diversified Transportation for the Walnut Way Dial-A-Cab program; professional services agreements for CDBG Administrative Services and housing rehabilitation services; appropriation of $8,130 for Cal-Recycle Beverage Recycling Grant funds; and waiver of parking restrictions on La Puente Road between Pierre Road and Gartel Drive for the 2014-15 school year for Walnut High School and Suzanne Middle School events.

The council then adopted Resolution No.14-40 for claims and demands in the amount of $125,000 for the City of Walnut as Successor Agency.

As part of council discussions, members then spoke at length about Mt. SAC’s parking structure construction and what to do about the situation to alleviate the concerns of residents. Members of council voiced their concerns about the safety of the public concerning Mt. SAC’s growing size and the impact it has on traffic congestion for residents in the area, with some residents calling out council to fight back against Mt. SAC’s construction decisions.

The discussion came after several meetings between various council members and Mt. SAC’s administration, in order to create a dialogue to settle disputes. However some residents were still upset about the state of traffic in the area and that the time for action was already past due.

After the discussion, the council members decided to draft a resolution with the input of residents on the traffic problem and go back to City Council for approval during its next meeting. After the approval of the resolution, the council would also send a letter on the City’s stance to local representatives in the State of California Legislature and the State of California Community Colleges Chancellor’s office.

The City Council then adjourned, with plans to meet Aug. 27 at 7 p.m. at the council chambers at 21201La Puente Road.

 

Eastvale City Manager Resigns

Carol Jacobs

Carol Jacobs

By Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – During the closed session portion of last night’s City Council Meeting, City Manager, Carol Jacobs, abruptly resigned, effective immediately. According to City Attorney, John Cavanaugh, he will serve as the City Manager until the next City Council meeting on Sept. 10.

At that meeting council members will announce an interim person until a permanent City Manager can be selected. The decision to appoint the City Attorney as next-in-command was a decision made just recently at the Aug. 13 council meeting; a motion that was moved by councilmember William Link and passed with a 3-1 vote (with council members Welch abstaining, and Mayor Pro-Team Adam rush voting No).
Councilmember Link said, “We are sad to see Carol go and wish her the best in any future endeavors she plans to pursue.”

According to Link, the City Council will begin reviewing applicants for the position and will hire an interim City Manager for 60 to 90 days while they finalize the ideal candidate choice. This will take place after the City posts the position, which according to Public Information Officer, Michele Nissen, should take a few weeks.
According to Nissen, the City cannot provide information about matters that happen during closed sessions, however, the City wishes Jacobs the best.

Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush said, “Carol is a great City Manager and devoted everything to establishing the City’s solid foundation. I wish her the best and know she will succeed in her career as a City Administrator.”
Carol Jacobs has been the City Manager for Eastvale just shy of two years, and made approximately $204,000, plus benefits.

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

STAFF REPORTS

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

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.

 

Wheel Food Fest

When: September 5, October 3 (1st Friday of the month); 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.

 

Irwindale Poker Tournament

When: Aug. 22 through Oct. 3; Tournament on Oct. 3, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Participating restaurants and The Pub at Miller-Coors.

Details: 6th Annual World of Food Poker Tournament, an innovative program designed to provide a fun way for poker players to earn bonus chips while driving business to local participating restaurants Registered players are encouraged to visit participating restaurants from Aug. 22 through Oct. 3 collecting chips for purchases. A Texas Hold-Em’ elimination tournament will be held on Fri., Oct. 3.

Contact: Detailed information is available on the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce website at www.irwindalechamber.org. Register no later than Aug. 7 to ensure full access to all materials.

 

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.

 

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.

 

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

 

Your Platform

BY PASTOR DENNIS MORALES

Pastor Dennis Morales Calvary Chapel CrossBridge

Pastor Dennis Morales

“And I told them of the hand of my God which had been good upon me,” (Nehemiah 2:18).

You have a platform. It’s essentially something that enables you to be heard. Speakers often stand upon a “soapbox” or a “stage” to be heard and make plain their message to their hearers. Whether it is adversity, struggle, or triumph, it is a platform for faith.

Nehemiah was in captivity and was the king’s cupbearer. He used his seemingly ill position as a platform for faith and to bring awareness of God’s plan. As a result, Nehemiah was given favor with the king and necessary resources to fulfill God’s plan and rebuild the walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah’s opposition was ever present and men sought to discourage his faithful plan, but Nehemiah had faith and trusted in God. Nehemiah knew God was for him and God turned the enemy’s plot to nothing (Nehemiah 4:14-16). The people rallied and completed the walls in record time. God is faithful in adversity.

I am reminded of Bethany Hamilton, who entrusted herself to her faithful Creator. She didn’t quit living when she lost her arm. She gave her life to God. She deposited her life for safekeeping into His hands; and now, God has given her an international platform from which to share her story and bring Him glory.

What is your platform today? Trust God to give you strength and lead you today (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m., at Clara Barton Elementary. Visit calvaryeastvale.org for more information.

 

Diamond Bar: Council Corner Aug. 19th Meeting

STAFF REPORTS

Diamond Bar – September Declared National Preparedness Month

 

The Diamond Bar City Council Meeting on Aug. 19 began with the council presenting Chief Stone, of the County of Los Angeles Fire Department, a proclamation for September to be declared as National Preparedness Month in the City of Diamond Bar.

As Mayor Carol Herrera presented the proclamation, she stated that it was very important to be prepared and that the City of Diamond Bar is joining the nation-wide coordinated effort each September to encourage Americans to prepare for emergencies in their homes, businesses, and schools. Herrera stated that public awareness is important and that this month is to persuade individuals to take action to be prepared, such as creating an emergency supply kit that contains items that will allow families to survive for at least two weeks in the event of an emergency.

After the proclamation, Chief Stone gave a presentation on Brush Fire Safety, where he showed a video of the L.A. County Fire Department’s program, “Ready, Set, Go!” This program shows residents how to prevent a fire, prepare for a fire, and what to do during a fire. For more information about this program, visit fire.lacounty.gov.

During Public Comments, a variety of concerned residents addressed the council about the Millennium Development Project, which is located near the County Estates. They addressed concerns for health, location, and other issues on why they think the development should be moved. The City Manager addressed the issue, but suggested having a meeting between the residents and the City to go over the project, and talked about how that would come about.

Another issue that was addressed during the public comments section was the City election date. A resident asked the council if they would consider moving the date to even-numbered years.

The City Council also informed the community that the City offices will be closed in observance of Labor Day on Sept. 1, and the City Council Meeting for Sept. 2 is canceled.

During the consent calendar section of the meeting, the council approved the following items with a 5-0 vote:

  • City Council minutes of the study session and the regular meeting of Aug. 5.
  • Ratification of the Check Register dated July 31 through Aug. 13, 2014, totaling $863,770.76.
  • A contract with ECS Imaging, Inc. in the amount of $87,000 plus a contingency of $5,000 for a total contract amount of $92,000 for the purchase of the Laserfiche Avante Document Management System and related professional services, which includes staff training, and the appropriation of $100,000 from General Fund Reserves.
  • Contract Amendment for existing on-call Civil Engineering Services with Onward Engineering to perform a comprehensive parkway drainage curb analysis, for a variety of raised curbs in different areas of the city. The cost of this project would be $22,680 with a contingency authorization of $4,000.
  • A Resolution which approves the application for $153,346 of Habitat Conservation Fund Grand Funds, which if awarded, requires a $153,346 match from the City for the Silver Tip Park Trail and Trail Head.

In the Public Hearing section, the Diamond Bar City Clerk talked about the adoption of a resolution which will amend the City’s Conflict of Interest Code for designated City Personnel and rescind Resolution No. 2012-36 in its entirety. The Council motioned to approve this resolution with a 5-0 vote.

Finally, presentations were given on the following items, and the council took them in consideration:

  • Diamond Bar Ride Program modifications and adoption of the updated program rules and regulations.
  • Adoption of a Resolution approving the City of Diamond Bar Emergency Operations Plan (EOP), which will authorize the Mayor to sign the letter promulgation and direct staff to provide a copy of the approved plan to the State of California Office of Emergency Services.

After the Council sub-committee reports, meeting attendance reports, and council member comments, the meeting was adjourned at 8:30 p.m. The next City Council meeting will take place on Sept. 16, at 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, located at 21865 Copley Drive.

Eastvale: Watch Your BAC: DUI Prevention

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Photo Caption: A participant checks his Blood Alcohol Content (Photo Courtesy: Eastvale News)

Photo Caption: A participant checks his Blood Alcohol Content (Photo Courtesy: Eastvale News)

Eastvale – The Eastvale Traffic Team – in its continued dedication to public safety – conducted a special DUI Prevention Program at the local Buffalo Wild Wings restaurant on Fri., Aug. 15. The purpose of the program was to educate the public on just how alcohol may affect you. While many residents were concerned that the event would deter business at the restaurant, the opposite seemed to happen.

Officers of the Traffic Team made their way throughout Buffalo Wild Wings, located in Eastvale’s Gateway shopping center, performing screenings on willing participants. The team performed Blood Alcohol Content (B.A.C.) analyses using a Preliminary Alcohol Screening device, or PAS. The popular restaurant, which is equal parts family seating and sports bar, was packed that night as patrons were approaching officers and eagerly awaiting their turns.

The legal alcohol limit is 0.08%, and many participants were surprised to see that they were above that level. It was also interesting to see how people of different sizes were affected by the same amounts of alcohol.

Throughout the night, participants were educated about the dangers of driving under the influence. They enjoyed a fun event with our local law enforcement, who takes a proactive approach in the education of our citizens.

VantagePoint Church Event to Provide Free Entertainment Labor Day Weekend

BY MONIQUE WHRITENOUR

Eastvale – This Labor Day Weekend, VantagePoint Church will conclude its successful Summer of Love campaign with a free evening of entertainment for the whole family.

The event, Flicks and Food Trucks, will be held on Sunday, August 31 at the Roosevelt High School outdoor amphitheater.  In addition to food trucks and a screening of the film “How to Train Your Dragon,” the festivities will also include games, raffles, an inflatable obstacle course, and a rock climbing wall.

“This summer, VantagePoint Church went out into the community and passed out water, Starbucks coffee cards, and Redbox movie codes.  We also fed the homeless and served more than 325 athletes at our Friday Night Lights Football and Cheer Camp,” said Monique Whritenour, director of community outreach.  “Flicks and Food Trucks is the final event in our Summer of Love.  It will provide the entire community with free entertainment in a safe environment.”

This is the second year that VantagePoint Church has hosted Flicks and Food Trucks.  Last year, more than 1,000 people were in attendance.

The event will begin at 5:30 p.m. with a performance by the band Western Express.  The movie will begin at 7:30 p.m.  Everything will be free, with the exception of food purchases.

“This summer, VantagePoint Church invested 1,025 service hours into being living proof of a loving God,” Whritenour said.  “Flicks and Food Trucks will be a great way to wrap up our successful Summer of Love campaign and will also allow us to celebrate Labor Day with our local community.  It is going to be a blast!”

For more information, contact Monique Whritenour at (909) 465-9700.

 

 

 

Glendale: Medical Clinic Leader Sentenced

STAFF REPORTS

 

Glendale – The leader of a $20 million health care fraud scheme based at a Glendale medical clinic was sentenced on Mon., Aug. 18, to eight years in federal prison for overseeing a plot to fraudulently prescribe expensive anti-psychotic medications and to sell those drugs back to pharmacies through the black market – where the drugs would be billed to the government over and over.

The United States Attorney’s Office has issued a news release stating that Lianna “Lili” Ovsepian, 33, of Tujunga, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge, S. James Otero, who stated that “We can’t have a situation where crime pays.” In addition to the prison term, Judge Otero ordered Ovsepian to pay $9,146,137 in restitution to Medicare and Medi-Cal.

Last November, Ovsepian pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and conspiracy to commit identity theft.

Ovsepian was the manager and owner of Manor Medical Imaging, Inc. in Glendale, which generated thousands of fraudulent prescriptions for unneeded and expensive anti-psychotic medications for “patients” who were typically low-income beneficiaries of the government-funded health care programs Medicare and Medi-Cal, and who did not need those drugs. The prescriptions appeared to be issued by co-conspirator Dr. Kenneth Johnson, who pre-signed thousands of blank prescriptions that were filled out by Ovsepian’s mother-in-law, Nuritsa Grigoryan.

The beneficiaries who received the prescriptions were brought to pharmacies, where the prescriptions were filled. The drugs were returned to Manor, the “patients” were given nominal payments (usually around $100), and the drugs were diverted into the black market, where they were sold to other pharmacies and re-billed to health care programs as though the drugs were being dispensed for the first time.

As prosecutors argued at sentencing, the beneficiaries included veterans recruited from dual diagnosis programs for drug addiction and schizophrenia, elderly Medicare beneficiaries whose identities were stolen and homeless beneficiaries recruited from skid row.

From September 2009 through Oct. 27, 2011, when the scheme was shut down by authorities, Medi-Cal and Medicare was billed more than $20 million, and the programs paid more than $9.1 million to pharmacies based on more than 14,000 claims submitted in relation to the scheme, prosecutors wrote in a sentencing brief filed in Ovsepian’s case.

The case involving Manor was the first one in the nation alleging an organized scheme to defraud government health care programs through fraudulent claims for anti-psychotic medications. The case is also the largest of its kind in Southern California involving a fraud targeting Medicare Part D.

Following a trial earlier this year, Dr. Johnson, Grigoryan and Ovsepian’s brother, Artak Ovsepian, were found guilty of a host of charges related to the scheme. Those defendants are currently pending sentencing.

Ovsepian oversaw a scheme that involved several family members and other co-conspirators. A total of 16 defendants have been convicted either through guilty pleas or by jury verdicts.

Other defendants who were charged in this case include a Pasadena couple whose Huntington Pharmacy in San Marino saw its business grow dramatically due to its affiliation with Manor Medical. The owner of the pharmacy, Phic Lim, is scheduled for trial in this case in March 2015.

 

 

Inland Empire: Search For Erin Corwin Over

STAFF REPORTS

Erin Corwin (Photo Courtesy: Nixle.com)

Erin Corwin (Photo Courtesy: Nixle.com)

Twentynine Palms – After an exhaustive eight-week search, the body of missing 19-year old Erin Corwin has been found.

The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department has issued a statement that on Sun., Aug. 17, Corwin’s body was recovered from a mine shaft 140 feet below the surface at approximately 6:30 p.m.

Corwin, who was reportedly pregnant, and married to U.S. Marine corporal Jonathan Wayne Corwin, apparently left her home on Sat., June 28 heading for Joshua Tree National Park for the day. She never returned and her husband reported her missing on Sunday. Shortly thereafter, Erin’s Toyota Corolla was found.

Under investigation during the search was Christopher Lee, a former Marine with whom Erin was allegedly romantically involved. As a result of their contact authorities issued a search warrant for him. In a search of his home investigators discovered a destructive device and arrested Lee on felony charges – not related to Erin’s disappearance – for its possession. He was released two days later.

The search for Erin under what authorities called, “suspicious circumstances,” included the assistance of nearly 5,000 volunteer hours over approximately 300 square miles, including the areas of Joshua Tree National Park, Twentynine Palms, Amboy, the local Marine base, and areas of the Bureau of Land Management. Sheriff’s authorities state that aerial searches identified more than 100 mine shafts and numerous bodies of water in the area and recruited the assistance of the Technical Cave and Mine Teams, specialized dive teams, and the County Fire Urban Search and Rescue Team. Using video equipment a body was located in an abandoned mine on federal property.

Once Erin was identified, Lee was arrested for her murder in Anchorage, Alaska that same night. An autopsy conducted on August 18 determined her death to be a homicide.

This investigation is still ongoing, and authorities are asking anyone with information about Erin Corwin to contact the Sheriff’ Specialized Investigation Division at (909)) 387-3589. Callers wishing to remain anonymous can contact the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip Hotline at www.wetip.com

The Weekly News Complete Edition 08.23.2014

The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link  The Weekly News 8.23.14  to access the complete Aug 23-29 issue in pdf format.

Eastvale: Planning Commission Vacancy

CITY OF EASTVALE

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale has a vacancy on the Planning Commission which has been posted on the Employment page of the City’s website. Interested parties are encouraged to submit a Volunteer Application with a resume and cover letter. City applications are available on the Employment page. The filing deadline is Aug. 20, at 5 p.m.

The Planning Commission is a five-member commission composed of residents appointed by the City Council. The Planning Commissioners term of service runs concurrent with the council member that appointed the commissioner.

The Planning Commission has the authority to review all development proposals for approval consideration. The Commission may advise the City Council in the development and application of policies affecting land use and development within the City. The Commission may also review and make recommendations regarding any proposed changes to the General Plan, Zoning Regulations and Design Standards.

Additional details about the Planning Commission may be found on the City’s Planning Commission page (http://www.eastvaleca.gov/index.aspx?page=29&recordid=1213).

Please direct any questions on this position to the City Manager’s Office, at (951) 361-0900.

 

Pomona: Gang Convicted of Multiple Crimes

STAFF REPORTS

Robert Louis Caballero (Photo Courtesy: City of Chino)

Robert Louis Caballero (Photo Courtesy: City of Chino)

Pomona – Three members of the 12th Street Gang were found guilty of a series of murders and kidnappings on Thurs., Aug. 14.

According to the Pomona Police Department and the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s office, Robert Louis Caballero, 37, was convicted of three counts of first-degree murder, two counts of kidnapping, one count of assault with a firearm, one count of possession of a firearm by a felon, evading an officer and willful disregard. The jury deliberated for two days before their findings, along with the special circumstances of lying in wait, murder during the course of a kidnapping, and multiple murders.

Another defendant, Pete Trejo, Jr., 32, was found guilty of first-degree murder, kidnapping, and the special circumstances of lying in wait, and murder during the course of a kidnapping.

A third defendant, Andrew Valenzuela, 23, was also convicted of one count of first-degree murder, kidnapping, and the special circumstances of murder during the course of a kidnapping.

The crimes began on Sept., 29, 2009, when Caballero killed Armando Vidana, a Cherryville gang member. Vidana was shot eight times and his body was left in the street in Pomona.

The Pomona Police Department further states that on Nov. 5, 2009, Caballero was at home with an 18-year old kidnapped victim, along with his cousin David Padilla, and a Lorraine Minjarez. During the visit, Caballero became suspicious of Minjarez and believed she was going to tell police that he killed Vidana. Caballero lured Minjarez to a nearby vehicle driven by his cousin, with the kidnapped victim also seated in the car. From that location they picked up the codefendant, Trejo.

During the ride, Caballero directed the driver to take them to Mt. Baldy. After they arrived, Caballero then directed Trejo to dig a grave while he strangled Minjarez. Once she was killed, Trejo buried her body and Caballero ordered the kidnapped victim to hide the evidence.

The next day, suspicious of Padilla’s loyalty to him, Caballero lured his cousin to a remote freeway overpass. Once there, he directed codefendant Valenzuela to strangle Padilla while forcing the kidnapped victim to watch. Prosecutors stated that Valenzuela strangled and beat Padilla to death with rocks.

                Pomona Police homicide detectives investigated the initial homicide that occurred on Sept., 29, 2009. Caballero was eventually identified as the suspect in this homicide and a manhunt was conducted.  On Nov. 7, 2009, Caballero was located and a pursuit was initiated by Pomona Police Officers.  Caballero fled on foot from the pursuit vehicle in Montclair and after a lengthy search, he was located.

                The investigation was continued by Pomona Police Homicide Detectives and they eventually located two additional homicide victims.  One was located in Mt. Baldy on a hillside (investigated by the L.A. County Sheriff’s Department). The other victim was located in Chino (investigated by the Chino Police Department).

Valenzuela was eventually charged with the indicated crimes as well.  He was also located in Pomona by Pomona Police Officers after being involved in a pursuit.  Trejo was also charged and he was eventually arrested after a murder warrant was issued.

Trejo and Valenzuela are scheduled to be sentenced October 3 at the Clara Shortridge Foltz Criminal Justice Center. They face a maximum sentence of life in state prison without the possibility of parole. The penalty phase for Caballero began on August 19.

 

8-2014 IE Community News

2014-08-iecommnews
The Inland Empire Community News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Eastvale, Ontario, Corona, Riverside and surrounding areas of the Inland Empire and portions the San Gabriel Valley and northern Orange County. Click this link 2014-08-IEcommnewsAll to access the complete issue in pdf format.

8-2014 SGV Community News

2014-08-sgvcommnews
The San Gabriel Valley Community News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, La Puente, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of the San Gabriel Valley and portions of the western Inland Empire and northern Orange County. Click this link 2014-08-SGVcommnewsAll to access the complete issue in pdf format.

Lost And Found

By PASTOR MARK HOPPER

 

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

I am a big Indiana Jones fan.  At the end of the the first movie, “Raiders of the Lost Ark”, there is a scene where the Ark of the Covenant is packed into a wooden crate and wheeled into a huge warehouse.  It is clear that it will be lost and forgotten among the thousands of other similar crates stored there.

When my wife and I recently traveled overseas some of our luggage got lost.  Our flight from Lisbon to Moscow was delayed and we missed our connection in Milan.  Our luggage should have been transferred with us on the later flight but instead it ended up in “Lost and Found.”

When we finally got to Moscow, our luggage was still in Milan.  The Russian airline personnel assured us that our luggage would be sent to Moscow the next day.  Unfortunately, we were being driven to a city 200 miles away and could not wait for our luggage to arrive.

A few days later, we received an email informing us that our two lost pieces of luggage had arrived in Moscow and we could claim them at the airport when we returned to Moscow in about two weeks. Thankfully we had a document from Aeroflot Airlines that showed we did have two pieces of luggage in storage at the Moscow airport.  But, the airport is a big place and when we got back to Moscow, I went to a variety of offices and ticket counters trying to find the location of the Aeroflot Lost and Found.

Finally, at the end of a maze of hallways and corridors, I found a locked, steel door that said, “Lost and Found”.  When I rang the bell, a stern, uniformed attendant greeted me with suspicion.  She didn’t speak English and I didn’t speak Russian.  But, when I showed her my document she allowed me to come in.

Behind her desk was a storage room filled from floor to ceiling with unclaimed suitcases, baby strollers and car seats.  I am convinced that if you have ever lost a child’s car seat, it is probably at the Lost and Found at the airport in Moscow.  There were dozens of them! The room looked like a scene right out of that Indiana Jones movie.

The stern woman actually was very helpful.  She pointed to the huge storage room and gestured to me to start looking for my lost bags.  It looked impossible. I expected that the luggage would be organized by flight numbers or by airlines.  Instead, suitcases were piled on the floor and on racks all over the room.  It was like trying to find a needle in a hay stack. It would have been easy to give up hope, but I knew our bags were here somewhere.  The airline had sent us an email stating that our bags were here.  Finding them, however, was a challenge.

It is amazing how all luggage looks alike.  One of our bags was gray.  It seemed that most of the other bags in the room were gray, too.  But thankfully, my wife’s bag was bright pink.  We found it first. Now I knew that our bags were really here and I redoubled my effort to find the gray one, too.

After looking for almost half an hour, my new friend, the stern lady official pulled a gray suitcase out of a stack in a far corner with our names on it. Amazing; there it was!

This whole adventure reminded me of a passage on prayer in Matthew, Chapter 7: Jesus said in the Sermon on the Mount, “Ask and keep on asking, and it will be given to you. Seek and keep on seeking, and you will find.  Knock and keep on knocking and the door will be opened for you.”

I am sure there many lessons that can be learned from this experience.  First, I recommend that you buy only bright colored suitcases in case they end up in a Lost and Found in a foreign country. Second, never give up.  When you face an impossible challenge, keep going.  Persistence and determination can pay off. Third, I believe God still answer prayers.  My wife and I prayed for a safe journey on our travels overseas.  And, we prayed that we would find the lost luggage, especially the bright pink one that was filled with gifts for our grandchildren.

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.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Straight Talk With Danice

BY DANICE AKIYOSHI, N.D.

 

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Danice:

My brother brags about everything. His wonderful job, his smart kids, his beautiful wife, his new BMW, his boat, his latest vacation, and anything else that is impressive in his life. I’m over it. So he’s done well in his life, it’s obvious. Why does he have to shove it in my face by talking about it all the time?

Yvonne

 

Dear Yvonne:

Let’s take a moment to change your perspective. If your brother announced his brain tumor, his bankruptcy, his addiction, his house fire, the failures of his kids, his mean wife – or whatever – you’d be all ears, and maybe even sympathetic enough to offer help. Just take a look at how our society operates these days. When we are doing well, people say things like, “It must be nice. Why doesn’t that ever happen to me? Wish it were me. How’d you get so lucky? He didn’t deserve that.”

Why do people so often offer support to their ailing loved ones, but criticize or shun them when they are doing well? It makes no sense to me; I want everyone to do well!

If your brother is a crashing bore only interested in discussing his own good fortune, then tell him you are bored with constant conversations about him. If you are jealous, then do something about feeling better about your own life. Sharing success stories sounds better to me than sharing tragic stories. All people hope for approval.

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.

Why Remember?

By MICHAEL ARMIJO

 

I once read a story about a 9-year old boy named Travis, whose mother died at home one day. Without telling a soul, little Travis covered her body with a coat and he placed sheets of notebook paper over her face. He learned to fix his own meals – mostly frozen pizza, cereal, and soup – cut his own hair, and attended school without fail. He did this for over a month because he was afraid he’d be placed into foster care if anyone found out his mother passed away. The mother’s body was eventually discovered by family friends. Travis begged them not to call the police.

When I read this story I was moved to write about it from my perspective. A friend asked me why I sought out areas in life that are so traumatic, so emotional, and so powerful. He asked me why I seemed to focus on elements of life that are painful, emotional and disturbing. “Why remember,” he asked.

It amazes me what life brings you. It’s like an old, enormous tree that sits in your neighborhood. One day it catches your eye and you tell yourself, “Gee, I never noticed that huge obstacle in front of me before.”

Although that tree has been there throughout your life and you’ve had to go around it most every day, you just never really looked at it. You’re so busy trying to survive that the small detour has become a part of your life, your routine.

I kind of feel that my emotions are like that tree; I’ve driven past them for so many years without really paying attention. I kept wondering why it took so long to get anywhere productive; why life was such a hassle for me. And then one day, for some reason, I finally noticed this tremendous obstruction in my life that I was going around and avoiding over and over again. I became fed up and decided I wasn’t going to avoid it anymore – I was going to drive right through that humongous tree of emotions.

It was never my plan to have to go and examine the landscaping of my life. I thought I was supposed to follow the path that was laid out before me. But somewhere along the way, I developed a source of confidence that somehow convinced me that the path laid out before me was vulnerable to manipulation. I realized that I could change where I was going and how I was going to get there.

I believe there are experiences in life that give you freedom and confidence, but sometimes you end up in a stagnant period where you have to take a moment to sit back and reflect. And during this reflection you might sometimes feel resentful of the circumstances that are before you. You might realize that someone in your life planted seeds that grew into this enormous tree that distanced you from the success you feel you deserve. And somehow – although you feel as though you never intended to water those seeds – this enormous tree has grown, survived, and even thrived in your life.

When you realize this, you might have a tendency to be angry or resentful of the irresponsibility of someone else’s sowing. You can’t change what has happened in your life, and that in itself can be an obstacle preventing you from going forward. It’s puzzling why we remember those horrible situations that have scarred our lives with darkness and pain. But as my dear friend said to me in a simple question, “Why remember?”

After hearing those two words I realized I had no answer real for that question. I then felt compelled to just let the darkness go and try to remember how great life really is. I can appreciate that although the huge tree may have strong roots, with a little work I can uproot the unhappiness.

And just like Travis, who used a few pieces of notebook paper to cover a painful sight, hoping that no one would discover it, we can ignore the obvious, or use those pages to write a new chapter in our lives. A chapter that will include a new path – right smack through that enormous tree.

 

 

Exploring the World

 BY NANCY STOOPS

 

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

Every year I go on a spiritual journey. I always receive a blessing from a holy person of the country I visit.

This year I will be travelling to Ecuador, and I will go to get my blessing from a Shaman when I first arrive. I will then be off on a yacht to the Galapagos Islands for six days and five nights. Each day we will visit a different island. I will have the chance to swim with sea lions and snorkel with many varieties of sea life. Being around and in the ocean is very healing for me.

After I leave the Galapagos Islands I will be travelling into the Amazon Rainforest where I will stay for four nights and three days. I will be immersed in some of the most unspoiled nature in the world. I will be pretty deep in the jungle and will have a chance to see many wonderful creatures and meet the people of that region. I will end my journey in a city called Banos, which is in the cloud forest and has many natural hot pools. I will be staying at a wellness spa and have many healing treatments when I am there.

As a psychotherapist I need to rejuvenate myself from time to time. These spiritual journeys do just that. I love being immersed in breathtaking nature. I love meeting people from other cultures and learning about their traditions. I have been all over the world, and there are only two continents that I have not travelled to. I plan on going to these continents during the next two years. I want to see our entire wonderful world.

I also believe travelling this world is way to continue to educate myself. I’m excited about my upcoming adventure and know I will come back filled with wonderful new energy to help heal my clients and better serve the needs of the people I love.

This article was written by Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens. For more information about any of these services feel free to page her at (626) 935-3818. You may also email her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. Nancy’s book, “Live, Heal and Grow” is available for purchase at http://www.RoseDogBookstore.com or Amazon.com

 

Did You Know?

BY K.P. SANDER

 

Perseid Meteor Shower on Aug. 12 (Photo Courtesy: Weather.com)

Perseid Meteor Shower on Aug. 12 (Photo Courtesy: Weather.com)

If you happened to look up in the sky this past week, at just the right time, you may have seen one of the most beautiful displays that nature has to offer.

Unrivaled by any fireworks show, the Perseid Meteor Shower hit its peak in the early morning hours of Aug. 13, with a rainfall of fireballs and lingering star trails. The show – like a summer concert series – runs from July 17 through August 24.

Not to be bested, the competitive super-moon, which occurred last Sunday in its ‘closest to the earth this year’ glory, made the sky so bright that some of the shower was difficult to see.

Weather.com states that the Perseids have been under observation for at least 2,000 years, and are associated with the Swift-Tuttle comet, which orbits the sun once every 133 years. Each August the Earth passes through a path of the comet’s debris, often dazzling the sky with as many as 100 meteors in an hour.

Lunar glare often diminishes the black sky needed to see the true brilliance of the showers, and a trip to an observatory would greatly enhance your viewing. But sometimes just a little patience on a blanket in the yard will provide you with a summer viewing worth the experience. For the full experience, you can visit NASA at http://www.nasa.gov/watchtheskies/perseids-2014. The constellation Perseus must be so proud.