Eastvale: Why Go to Church?

BY PASTOR ROBERT JEWETT

Pastor Robert Jewett Word of Truth Community ChurchWhile many people go to church for varying reasons, many others do not go to church for just as many reasons. Biblically speaking, it is the body of believers who are the church…not the building where they gather. This begs the question, “Why should anyone go to church?”

While many will argue, “I don’t have to go to church to be a Christian,” the reality is that going to church should strengthen our faith and encourage us to walk as Jesus walked. The Bible says, “Let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near,” (Hebrews 10:24-25). Hence, going to church is about being built up in the Lord.

Going to church gives opportunity for individual believers to be encouraged and to encourage others. With all the cares of this world, it is easy to get our minds focused on anything but the Lord. By going to church, we are instructed in God’s Word, encouraged by fellow believers, and refocused on what truly matters.

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

Business Feature: Strategic Alliance – Free Networking

STAFF REPORTS

 

Join the Strategic Alliance Networking Group at (909) 268-9470 , or visit www.strategicnetworking.org for more information.

Join the Strategic Alliance Networking Group at (909) 268-9470 , or visit http://www.strategicnetworking.org for more information.

Walnut – If you are looking for an effective way to market your business and network with local businesses at the same time, Strategic Alliance is the perfect solution…and it’s FREE!

Strategic Alliance is a non-profit company dedicated to providing businesses the opportunity to align synergistically by creating an environment conducive to business development. They were founded in 1997 for the purpose of generating quality business opportunities. By creating an alliance of ethics-driven business professionals who are dedicated to generating business, the level of customer service increases, driving better results.

Members meet each week to exchange information, ideas and referrals. Over time, these relationships – which are built on trust and mutual respect – generate business opportunities. Strategic Alliance is unique in the fact that they are free, have a proven track record with 13 years in business, and their meetings are fun (no one wants to sit through a boring meeting). Similar networking groups often charge for this type of service. One of the reasons Strategic Alliance works so well is that there is only one of each type of business within the membership; this way, you receive all the referrals from the group for your field of expertise.

The group meets every Thursday morning, 7 a.m., at the Holiday Inn (21725 Gateway Center Drive, off Golden Springs), in Diamond Bar. Membership for the group is free, but everyone is encouraged to purchase breakfast to reserve the room at the Holiday Inn each week. Guests are invited to enjoy a free breakfast at their first meeting to see if they are a good match for the group. There are approximately 20 members at every meeting, which in turn generates hundreds of referrals every year, and creates tens of thousands of dollars in business.

Strategic Alliance covers Brea, Chino, Chino Hills, City of Industry, Claremont, Covina, Diamond Bar, Fullerton, Glendora, La Habra, La Puente, La Verne, Montclair, Ontario, Pomona, Rancho Cucamonga, Rowland Heights, San Dimas, Upland, Walnut, and West Covina. They are now recruiting members in a variety of business genres

Contact Strategic Alliance today, and begin marketing your business and generating more income in an effective new way. President, Johnny Hudson, understands that business by referral is the best possible way to grow your business and make more money. Call him at (909) 268-9470, email him at BasicTrainingMembers@yahoo.com, or visit www.strategicnetworking.org for more information.

 

 

Riverside: School Custodian Pleads Guilty To Child Pornography Charges

STAFF REPORTS

 

Riverside – A school custodian who sexually abused a child over a period of several years and shared visual images of the molestations online plead guilty on Mon., July 21, to federal child pornography charges.

According to the United States Attorney’s Office, Matthew Frazer, 39, of Yucca Valley, plead guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.

Frazer, who has been in custody since his arrest earlier this year, is scheduled to be sentenced by United States District Judge, Virginia A. Phillips, on October 6.

Prior to his arrest on January 31, Frazer was employed as a custodian with the Morongo Unified School District. The victim did not attend the schools where Frazer worked.

The investigation into Frazer was initiated last year after the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children provided the FBI with a series of pornographic images depicting a young female being abused by a white male. For several months, investigators attempted to identify the adult male in the images, and the FBI identified Frazier as the suspect earlier this year.

Frazer plead guilty to the two felony charges pursuant to a plea agreement, in which he admits filming sexual explicit images of the young female victim from 2008 through 2012. He admitted to making a video in October 2009, when the victim was just 6 years old, and again in 2010 when she was 7.

As a result of the guilty pleas, Frazer faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for the distribution charge and a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in prison as a result of his guilty pleas to both counts. The plea agreement calls for the judge to impose a sentence of at least ten years and up to 23 years, which will be followed by ten years of supervised release.

This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI. The following agencies provided assistance during the investigation: the Riverside Police Department; the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department; the San Bernardino Police Department; the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department; and the San Bernardino County Probation Department.

 

 

 

Home Fires

BY PASTOR ROB NORRIS

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

Pastor Rob Norris, The Crossings

“We will not hide these truths from our children; we will tell the next generation about the glorious deeds of the Lord, about his power and his mighty wonders.” (Psalm 78:4)

Five grown siblings came together at the event of their parents’ 50th wedding anniversary. When the time came to express their thanks to each parent for the one thing that stood out above all in their memories, each of them – without consulting the others – thanked their father for his leadership in family worship.

One of the brothers said, “The oldest memory I have, Dad, is of tears streaming down your face as you taught us from Pilgrim’s Progress on Sunday evenings. No matter how far I went astray in later years, I could never seriously question the reality of Christianity. I had seen it in you.”

Whenever the subject of family worship comes up, you may feel guilt at your failure in this area. I understand that. Few things seem harder to pull off or easier to put off. But when you consider the impact this one commitment could make in your own children for a lifetime, what could be more important?

It doesn’t have to be tightly preplanned. Take five or ten minutes before school to read a devotional with your children. Schedule one night a week when you’ll all be home to read a story and Scripture, sing (or make a joyful noise) and have some outrageous fun. Watch for those opportunities to practice “sandbox theology,” turning your children’s everyday events into spiritual training moments.

Don’t miss this: Dad and Mom, your ultimate assignment as parents is to introduce your children to God; His Son, Jesus Christ; and His Word. It may be hard to start and a challenge to continue, but it will make a huge difference in how they finish.

Live It: Talk about what each of you can do to be helpful and encouraging to each other in getting family worship started or in keeping it going.

Pray: Pray for priorities to firm up in your life, for incidentals to be seen for the waste of time they are, and for God’s Word to recapture each of your hearts.

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

The Mexican Fisherman

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

 

I am convinced that deep inside our hearts we all possess the ability to be successful. I rely on a simple formula: Confidence + Desire = Ability. I believe that when we have confidence, and then add our desire, we find the path to ability. And I believe that each and every one of us can accomplish whatever we want, just as long as we have desire. But it has to come deep from within.

What I’ve also learned is that not everyone shares the same definition of success that I do, and I’ve learned that what’s important to me is not necessarily important to others.

As a motivator, I want everyone in the world to apply themselves and work hard to be on top. I want to encourage everyone to do their best and step up to their inner ability. But I’ve come to the realization that sometimes we have to really look clearly at the big picture, because sometimes our goals are the same. It all depends on how you look at it.

This brings me to a story I’d like to share, a story called, The Mexican Fisherman:

An American investment banker was at the pier of a small coastal Mexican village, when a small boat with just one fisherman docked.

Inside the small boat were several large yellow fin tuna. The American complimented the fisherman on the quality of his fish and asked how long it took to catch them. The fisherman replied, “Only a little while.”

The American then asked, “Why didn’t you stay out longer and catch more fish?”

The fisherman said, “With this I have more than enough to support my family’s needs.”

The American then asked, “But what do you do with the rest of your time?”

To which the fisherman replied, “I sleep late, fish a little, play with my children, take a siesta with my wife, stroll into the village each evening where I sip wine and play guitar with my amigos. I have a full and busy life.”

The American scoffed, “I’m a Harvard MBA and I could help you. You should spend more time fishing; and with the proceeds, buy a bigger boat. With the proceeds from the bigger boat you could buy several boats. Eventually you would have a fleet of fishing boats. Instead of selling your catch to a middleman, you would sell directly to the processor, eventually opening your own cannery. You would control the product, processing, and distribution. You would need to leave this small coastal fishing village and move to Mexico City, then Los Angeles, and eventually New York where you will run your ever-expanding enterprise.”

“But what then?” asked the fisherman. The American laughed and said, “That’s the best part. When the time is right you would announce an IPO and sell your company stock to the public and become very rich. You would make millions.”

“Millions? Then what?” the fisherman asked.

The American said, “Then you would retire. Move to a small coastal fishing village where you would sleep late, fish a little, play with your kids, take siesta with your wife, stroll to the village in the evenings where you could sip wine and play your guitar with your amigos.”

This story reminds me that when you’re searching for success in life, you need to determine what success means. Just as the fisherman believed in his simple life, we need to look at the simplicity of what we really want. At times, we may find we don’t need to look too far for success because sometimes we’re already successful. Some of us, deep inside, are simple, happy, already successful Mexican Fishermen.

San Gabriel Valley: Identity Theft Crew Arrested

STAFF REPORTS

Arnulfo Rodarte, left, and Sylvester Curameng (Photo Courtesy: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department)

Arnulfo Rodarte, left, and Sylvester Curameng (Photo Courtesy: Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department)

SGV – Over 20 people in cities across Southern California – including Arcadia, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, El Monte, La Puente, Ontario, San Dimas, West Covina, and Whittier – have been the victims of the Identity Theft Crew.

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Lomita Station, released a statement that on Thurs., July 17, suspects attached to this crime have been arrested. Arnulfo Rodarte, a resident of San Pedro, and Sylvester Curameng, a resident of Torrance, are in custody for crimes involving burglary, identity theft, and possession of personal profiles belonging to other individuals. Another suspect, Andrea Serrao, of San Pedro, was also arrested for embezzlement.

On July 6, Rodarte and Curameng used a victim’s stolen credit card to make purchases at a San Pedro Target store, and were captured on video during the crime. Detectives viewing the video footage recognized Rodarte from a previous arrest and immediately obtained a search warrant. During the search they were able to identify Curameng, Rodarte’s crime partner, as well as a notebook and mail with information belonging to more than 20 victims.

The search also revealed that Serrao had rented a 2013 Mercedes Benz C250 from Enterprise Rental Car, and never returned it. It is believed that Serrao rented the car for the suspects to commit their crimes.

Rodarte and Curameng are being held at the Inmate Reception Center on bail in lieu of $20,000; and Serrao is being held at the Century Regional Detention Facility on bail in lieu of $25,000. All three suspects were due to be arraigned in court on July 21 in Torrance.

 

Corona: Local Children’s Theatre Group Finds New Home

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

Corona – On Wed., July 16, one of the items on the City of Corona’s City Council agenda involved deciding the future of the old Council office building. This entailed voting on whether or not to allow Christian Arts and Theatre of Corona, a local children’s theatre program, to become the building’s new tenants.

According to their website, “Christian Arts & Theatre of Corona (CAT) is an after-school theater and visual arts educational program for students ages 6 to 18. CAT is committed to building up kids through excellence in the arts as well as modeling for them the highest morals through traditional Biblical values.” CAT has been a big part of Corona for 15 years. They offer after-school classes in singing, dancing, acting, choreography, theatrical make-up, and much more. Students at CAT also have the opportunity to audition for a musical production.

The group has moved seven times to different locations throughout Corona since its beginning, and has spent the past two and a half years offering classes in the former school of Crossroads Christian Church. While the location of the classes and rehearsals has repeatedly changed, one thing has remained constant for a very long time: the Corona Civic Center Theater has continued to house their musical performances.

CAT’s artistic director, Cindy Monroe, was informed of the possibility of a new home for the theater group.   This “home” was located only a few steps from the Civic Center Theater that the CAT families know and love. “It’s such a beautiful place! Our kids and families will love this new home,” said Monroe.

On July 16, the council chambers were filled with many of the CAT families who had come to show their support for the organization. On the Consent Calendar, the 9th item stated: “City Council directs the City Attorney to prepare a lease agreement between the City and Christian Arts Theater, using the City’s standard Historic Civic Center Lease Agreement…” The agreement would be for a five year lease, plus a five year extension.

The council members then took the time to share a few words about CAT with those present and talked about the positive impact the organization’s relocation would have on the community, specifically in downtown Corona. Council Member Stan Skipworth enthusiastically stated, “This is an opportunity to keep our community alive.”

Finally, it came time for the Council to vote. The item was passed 5-0 in favor of allowing CAT to begin leasing the building. The news brought enthusiastic cheers and applause from the CAT families in the audience, and Mayor Karen Spiegel remarked good-naturedly, “You guys can stay the entire meeting, and during everything we do now. Make sure that the applause is that good; we don’t get that very often.”

 

Did You Know?

BY K.P. SANDER

Neil Armstrong next to the American Flag on the lunar surface. (Photo Courtesy: Bing Images)

Neil Armstrong next to the American Flag on the lunar surface. (Photo Courtesy: Bing.com Images)

45 years ago on July 21, 1969, spaceflight Apollo 11 landed on the Moon, with American astronauts Neil Armstrong, and Edwin “Buzz” Aldrin, being the first humans to ever step foot on the lunar surface. They spent 21 hours on the Moon, and about two and a half hours outside the spacecraft. The third member of the mission, Michael Collins, piloted the command spacecraft in lunar orbit, waiting for his fellow astronauts to return for the trip back to earth.

According to Wikipedia, the mission was launched on July 16 from Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The spacecraft had three components: the Command Module (CM), with a cabin for the astronauts (the only part coming back to earth); the Service Module, providing support to the CM with propulsion, electrical power, oxygen and water; and the Lunar Module, for the actual landing in the Sea of Tranquility on the Moon.

Armstrong became the very first to step onto the lunar surface on July 21 at approximately 02:56 UTC (Coordinated Universal Time, the primary time standard by which the world regulates clocks and time). His famous words were transmitted via live television broadcast back to earth for all to hear, “That’s one small step for [a] man; one giant leap for mankind.” He described the surface as very fine-grained dust, almost like powder. When Aldrin joined him, he described the view as “magnificent desolation.” Armstrong and Aldrin collected 47.5 pounds of lunar materials to bring back to earth for study.

The astronauts planted a U.S. flag on the surface, and received the most historic (and farthest) phone call from then-President, Richard Nixon. The astronauts left behind scientific instruments, an Apollo 1 mission patch, a plaque with two drawings of Earth and an inscription that read, “Here men from the planet Earth first set foot upon the Moon, July 1969 A.D. We came in peace for all mankind;” the plaque also had the signatures of all the astronauts and President Nixon. They also left behind a memorial bag containing a gold replica of an olive branch symbolizing peace, and a silicon message disk containing goodwill statements by U.S. Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy, Johnson and Nixon, as well as the leaders from 73 countries around the world.

In the television broadcast from July 23, the night before splashdown, Aldrin said, “When personally reflecting on the events of the past several days, a verse from Psalms comes to mind. ‘When I consider the heavens, the work of Thy fingers, the Moon and the stars, which Thou hast ordained; what is man that Thou art mindful of him?” What those men experienced was beyond profound.

The three astronauts landed back home in the Pacific Ocean on July 24. The mission fulfilled the goal proposed in 1961 by the late President John F. Kennedy when he spoke before congress stating, “…Before this decade is out, of landing a man on the Moon and returning him safely to the Earth.” Mission Accomplished, Mr. President.

 

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports 

 

UPCOMING EVENTS:

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.

Calvary Lutheran Summer Kids’ Day Camp

When: Monday, Now through Wednesday, August 20; 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church & Schools, 23300 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar 91765 Details: A fun, safe, Christian environment for your school age children. Kids’ camp is a summer day camp program based on fun, personal and spiritual growth, and the celebration of God’s Word through various activities, field trips, and daily devotions.  All children ages 5 – 12 are invited to attend.  Check out the Mt. Calvary Lutheran website for more information about daily activities, registration, and fees.

 

West Covina Summer Concert Series

When: Thursday evenings, now through August 7; 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: West Covina Civic Center, 1444 W. Garvey Avenue

Details: Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and dancing shoes and enjoy this summer entertainment:

  • Jul 31: Cold Duck
  • Aug 7: Mariachi Divas
  • Aug 16: Food Truck Frenzy and Concert

Contact: Community Services Department, (626) 939-8489.

 

Diamond Bar Concert/Movie Series

When: Wednesday evenings through August 13; 6:30 p.m.

Where: Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive

Details: Free admission and free parking

  • Jul 30: Box Car 7 (Blues, R&B); Free Birds.
  • Aug 06: Cold Ducks (70s Tribute); The Lego Movie.
  • Aug 13: Little Lies Band (Fleetwood Mac Tribute); Despicable Me 2

Contact: www.ci.diamond-bar.ca.us

 

21st Annual Oxnard Salsa Festival

When: Saturday, July 26

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

Details: For $20 per person you can enjoy salsa, food, music and dance. Lunch is on your own at the festival. All ages are welcome.

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

 

Reduced Cost Vaccination Clinic

When: Tuesday, July 29, 7 to 8 p.m.

Where: Chino Community Building, 5443 B Street, Chino

Details: The Inland Valley Humane Society and SPCA will hold a reduced fee vaccination and licensing clinic for pets. Dogs: Rabies/$6; DHPP/$15; Bordetella/$15. Cats: Rabies/$10; FVRCP/$18.

Contact: (909) 706-4601

 

Chino Youth Museum Family-Friendly Programs

When: Now through August 2014

Where: 13191 Sixth Street, Downtown Chino; Tuesday – Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Nominal fees.

Details: There are some amazing events taking place this summer, from art projects and entertainment, to edible art creations and Kids Night Out. Enjoy special activities like You & Me Time, Beat the Heat cool activities, and special day Museum Birthday Parties.

Contact: (909) 334-3270 to find out more about the summer-fun schedule.

 

Wheel Food Fest

When: August 1, 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.

 

Chino Relay for Life

When: Sat., Aug. 2, 9 a.m. through Sunday, Aug. 3, 8 a.m.

Where: Ayala Park, 14201 Central Ave, Chino

Details: 24-hour event that helps to raise money for the American Cancer Society. Run, Walk, Sponsor!

Contact: Kristine Travis, at kritravi1978@yahoo.com

 

Youth Citizens Police Academy Class VIII

When: Monday – Thursday, Aug. 11-21; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Chino Police Department, 5450 Walnut Avenue

Details: High school teens, 14-18 years of age, who live or attend school in the City of Chino, can get an inside look at all the functions of their local law enforcement agency. Participants will get hands-on experience with SWAT, Patrol, Criminal Investigations, K-9, CSI, Narcotics, Traffic and much more!

Contact: Olivia Le Van, (909) 334-3087, or olevan@chinopd.org for applications.

 

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.

 

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

 

Eastvale: Crime Recap July 2014

STAFF REPORTS 
Crime ImageThe following is a crime recap for the month of July in the Cities of Eastvale, Corona, Norco, and Jurupa Valley. Information is from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and from our Eastvale Community News Facebook Page.

On Tues., July 15 about 11:45 a.m., deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Station, Norco Sheriff’s Office, responded to the 2200 block of Vista Ridge in the city of Norco. This was in reference to a stolen vehicle investigation. Upon arriving, deputies located the stolen vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence. As the deputies continued with their investigation, they were able to locate and identify the suspects, who were found hiding in the residence. Lawrence Piper, 30, was arrested for possession of stolen property, burglary, and two felony warrants for parole violations; Julie Stewart, 28, was arrested for possession of stolen property, burglary, and a felony warrant for possession of controlled substance; and Tayler Jenkins, 23, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and violation of probation.

On July 18, at about 1:30 p.m., members of the Riverside Sheriff’s Special Investigation Bureau, along with deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office, served a search warrant in the 3700 block of California Avenue, in the city of Norco. The search warrant was the result of an investigation into an illegal outdoor marijuana grow operation at the location. During the search warrant service, over 400 marijuana plants were located and seized. The subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of two adult suspects, identified as Israel Martinez, 49, and Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez, 34, residents from the city of Ontario. They were each booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center (RPDC) for marijuana cultivation and conspiracy charges.

On Sat., July 19, at approximately 8:30 a.m., officers from the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to an assault with a deadly weapon report in the 3400 block of Skylane Drive. At the scene officers found Simona Mateas, 43, lying in the driveway suffering from gunshot wounds. There was reportedly a second victim at the home as well. Both were transported to a local hospital where Mateas succumbed to her injuries. The San Bernardino Police Department was dispatched later in the day responding to a suicide report, whereby Ayram Mateas, the husband of Simona, was found deceased inside the front door of a residence in the 1600 block of West Lincoln Avenue in San Bernardino. Upon further investigation it was found that the Mateas couple had been going through divorce proceedings, which may have instigated the murder/suicide.

On Sunday, July 20, two women were killed in a fiery crash on the I-15 freeway in the early morning hours. According to the California Highway Patrol, Julio Reyes, 34, of Riverside, was driving a black 2014 Lexus sedan while he was traveling southbound at alleged speeds of over 100 mph near Hidden Valley Parkway in Corona, when he slammed into the back of a silver Toyota. The Toyota burst into flames and both women were pronounced dead at the scene. Reyes was found by officers to be under the influence of alcohol and was he arrested on suspicion of gross vehicular manslaughter while intoxicated, and drunken driving causing bodily injury. Reyes and two other passengers in his car sustained minor injuries. The names of the women have not yet been released.

 

Chino Hills: Businesses Invited To Business Expo At Fair

STAFF REPORTS

 

Chino Hills – Companies in Chino Hills will have an opportunity to showcase their businesses and offer pre-packaged items for sale or sampling on Fri., Sept. 19, at Chino Hills Day at the Los Angeles County Fair.

The Business Expo will be located in a high-visibility location near the Millard Sheets Center for the Arts. Participation in the Business Expo will be coordinated by the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce. Applications will be available starting on Thurs., July 31, and can be downloaded from the City’s website at http://www.chinohills.org/BusinessExpo, or picked at the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce

Office, located at 13150 Seventh Street, in Chino. The Chamber is open Monday through Thursday from

9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The Chamber will begin accepting completed applications starting on Mon., Aug. 4., and will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis (subject to L.A. County Fair approval) until all booths have been assigned. Requests to share a booth are encouraged. Only one of any type of business will be allowed due to the limited number of spaces.

Businesses must have their primary business address in the City of Chino Hills and must have a current City of Chino Hills business license. Chamber membership is not required. Prepackaged items for sale and items to be sampled must be approved by the Fair.

A seller’s permit is required and Health Department guidelines must be followed. Selected businesses will be asked to make a suggested donation of $100 which will be donated to The Learning Centers at Fairplex. Expo participants will receive up to four admission tickets, up to two parking passes, and exposure to Fair visitors during the Expo hours from 3 to 7 p.m. The booths include a 10’ x 10’ canopy, one 8- foot table, two chairs, a small hanging sign with the company name, a table cloth, and table skirt.

Set up for the Business Expo begins at 2:00 p.m. Participants may not drive onto the fairgrounds. Fair personnel will assist with booth set up and tear down. Hand carts or flatbeds will be available.

Some categories of products and services have exclusive marketing rights at the L.A. County Fair and items that compete in those categories may not be displayed nor sold during Chino Hills Day at the Fair. A complete list of categories for which exclusive marketing rights have been granted is noted on the application form. The Chino Hills Business Expo may not feature the following categories: beverages, cookware, pay TV services, grocery stores, magnetic therapeutic jewelry, mattresses / high end sheets, online deal-of- the-day companies, timeshares, cell phone companies, and vehicles (including products bearing the name of major auto manufacturers). Additional rules may apply; see the application for complete details.

For additional information regarding participation in the Chino Hills Day at the Fair Business Expo, please call the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce at (909) 627-6177.

Walnut’s Aquatic Park

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

Walnut – After numerous promises during the reelection campaign from council members Mary Su and Bob Pacheco, plans for an aquatic center are starting to come together in the earliest stages of development.

In addition to Pacheco and Su, council member Tony Cartagena also expressed support for the construction of an aquatic center and with a high amount of public interest. $250,000 has been allocated from the 2014/2015 fiscal budget to go toward schematics, testing, and advanced studies in order to make the aquatic center a reality.

However, even with $250,000 being set aside by the City during the first month of its new fiscal year, they are approaching the construction with caution. According to Community Services Director Mary Rooney, the City is just now starting to assess many different aspects of the aquatic center’s construction. Plans are so new that Rooney mentioned that the location, cost, and specifics are preliminary and that everything is up for consideration.

“There are various preliminary plans that have to go in place before we can actually design and build anything,” Rooney said.

To date, the City has met in closed session to discuss the possible locations for the aquatic center while Rooney mentioned that they have only spent an estimated $22,500 of the $250,000 on professionally drawn schematics from Aquatic Design Group.

The total cost of construction for the aquatic center is being considered, however Rooney mentioned that certain council actions, including the July 23 decision to sell a tract of land near Amar Road, are possible ways to fund the creation of the center.

With funding and nearly all of the aquatics center’s plans still under consideration, Rooney wanted to make sure that residents understand that the City is still pushing forward with its plans and that one way or another, the aquatic center will be built.

“We are moving on this,” Rooney said.

Rooney said that with the help of a Parks and Recreation sub-committee, plans will continue to unfold as the year goes on.

Claudine Stines, a Walnut resident who has long been a proponent of this project says, “It’s hard to imagine what started as a swimming pool for Walnut, has now expanded to the possibility of two pools (a competitive and recreational pool). Who knows? The concept could even include a performing arts amphitheater, a series of nature trails, and family-friendly open parks with additional parking…”

Stines also encourages residents to let their voices be heard by visiting her website at http://chn.ge/1e1ewyp, where comments are shared with members of the Walnut City Council.

 

 

 

 

Eastvale: Chamber Business of the Month – Lewis Group of Companies

lewis-group-of-companies

As the Lewis Group of Companies begins its 59th year, many long-tenured employees under the direction of a second and third generation management team continue the tradition of quality, integrity and stability that was of paramount importance to Ralph and Goldy Lewis when they founded their home building firm in Claremont in 1955.

The Lewis Group of Companies continues today as one of the nation’s largest privately held real estate development companies. The Lewis Group focuses on developing mixed-use planned communities and residential subdivisions in California and Nevada, as well as building and owning rental communities, shopping centers, office parks, and industrial buildings.

Lewis has been a huge supporter of the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce since our incorporation in 2010.  We are privileged to have such a great company with amazing ethics and hardworking talent as part of our Chamber.

Contact Information:

Sam Carpenter

Director of Retail Marketing

  1. Carpenter@lewisop.com

http://www.lewisop.com/

Chino Hills: Madrona Project Lawsuit

Aerial view of the Madrona Project. (Photo Courtesy: Hills For Everyone)

Aerial view of the Madrona Project. (Photo Courtesy: Hills For Everyone)

BY K.P. SANDER 

Chino Hills – The Madrona Project, a proposed residential hillside development under the City of Brea’s jurisdiction, is the subject of much controversy with a lawsuit brewing in its core.

The 367 acres situated in the hills north of Carbon Canyon Road, moving eastward to the San Bernardino/Orange County line is expected to incur development of 162 homes in an area wrought with environmental and safety issues. In fact, the group that founded the Chino Hills State Park – Hills For Everyone – has filed suit against the City of Brea claiming violation of state planning and zoning laws, city codes, and an inadequate environmental report failing to reveal the project’s true impacts.

According to stopmadrona.org, at issue are a multitude of considerations that cannot be mitigated, including repeated wildfires to the area, unsafe geology, dangerous traffic levels, reduced air quality, loss of important habitats, and reduced public safety.

The Madrona Project was first proposed in 1999, and the Brea City Council voted to approve it on June 3 with a 4-1 vote. Notes from an earlier Brea City Council meeting share that the Mayor said he saw three ways that the Council could possibly vote: 1) deny the project; 2) approve the project as is; or 3) approve the project with conditions of approval. The City stands by their approval (with alleged conditions) and the environmental reporting conducted this far.

Many Chino Hills residents are reportedly helping to raise funds for the lawsuit, and have been actively protesting the project from the beginning. The acreage has already burned four times in the last 30 years, and the homes will remain completely surrounded by wild land making the future tenants extremely vulnerable. This, along with the massive amounts of water required to develop the area and sustain future residents in the midst of an historic drought are cause for concern.

The land is also home to an abundance of wildlife in a corridor that has allowed many rare or endangered species to thrive in their own community. By breaking up the continuity of the habitat, many animals could become extinct or have their numbers reduced significantly, not to mention the toll on native plants and all that the biodiversity of the area provides.

Stopmadrona.org says that the Brea council was forced into a legal settlement requiring them to process the project under rules that are 27 years old, but the opted for one-time economic benefits over the safety of its existing and future residents. Former Brea mayor, Beverly Perry, has reportedly said that it [the project] is poor planning and goes against Brea’s long-held values and standards for planning.

Baldwin Park Eastside Little League Beats Washington State-On Track to World Series

BY CECELIA BERNAL

Baldwin Park – The Big League Softball team (girls age 15-18) from Baldwin Park Eastside Little League are strong competitors on track to the Softball Little League World Series.  After winning the District 19 All Star Tournament and, last week, winning the Southern California Divisional All Star Championship, on Sunday they began competing for the Regional tournament against winners of Northern California and other states.  The Regional games are taking place in Lancaster where Eastside beat Washington State with a score of 15-3 on Monday.  The Regional winner will go on to the World Series in Sussex, Delaware.

After being talked into managing the team, David Muse, said “Coaches Tony Garcia and Steve Rivera, Eastside President Cecelia Bernal, and all the player have worked hard and done a great job this year”.

 

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Eastside Little League is a non-profit organization, operated solely by volunteers, to offer an organized sport to the children of Baldwin Park.

 

Walnut: Council Corner July 23d Recap

Walnut Council presents Captain Jeff Scroggin with an appreciation proclamation; (L-R) council members Tony Cartagena and Mary Su; Captain Scroggin; Mayor Nancy Tragarz; council member Bob Pacheco; and Mayor Pro Team Eric Ching. (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Walnut Council presents Captain Jeff Scroggin with an appreciation proclamation; (L-R) council members Tony Cartagena and Mary Su; Captain Scroggin; Mayor Nancy Tragarz; council member Bob Pacheco; and Mayor Pro Team Eric Ching.
(Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

Walnut – Walnut’s City Council met for its final meeting of the month on July 23, which stood as a joint meeting for the City Council and the Housing Authority.

Newly appointed Mayor, Nancy Tragarz, called the meeting to order and welcomed Pastor Paul Tan from City Blessing Church of Walnut to deliver the invocation. Tragarz then gave a declaration that the City of Walnut would recognize Aug. 5, 2014 as National Night Out, an event open to Walnut residents for an evening of family fun at Creekside Park which includes a movie screening and a concert.

Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department Captain, Jeff Scroggin, was invited to accept a proclamation in front of residents, while he was given praise by council members for the department’s hard work in lowering crime rates and providing safety to residents.

The council members then spoke about the opportunity that National Night Out provides, citing it as a chance for families to enjoy themselves and celebrate the safety of the City and bringing the community together.

“National Night Out is an effort for all of us to get together, come out and know members of your community,” Scroggin said.

The meeting then switched gears to a more intense topic, with members of the Timberline Community flooding the public comment section with nine residents declaring their distaste for the amount of growth that Mount San Antonio College has undergone and the level of congestion that student parking has caused. Residents called the increase in traffic and pollution a “crisis” and several residents called for immediate action – regardless of the power that city council has on Mount San Antonio College affairs.

Council member Tony Cartagena said it would be wise for the council to further discuss what can be done in appeasing the residents of the Timberline Community, vowing to bring the item back for discussion at a later time.

After the public comment section was closed, the council members moved to approve the minutes for the City Council/Finance Authority/Housing Authority meeting on June 25, and the July 9 council meeting, before moving on to a public hearing item concerning renewal of the Animal Care and Control Services Agreement with the County of Los Angeles.

A staff report outlined that the renewed contract would last for five years ending June 30, 2019, and adopts a resolution to include fees for dog and cat licensing and modifying the age requirement for senior citizens. City council members then opted to unanimously approve the renewed contract.

Council members then moved on to approve the items on the consent calendar, including Resolution No. 14-34 for claims and demands in the amount of $817,099.51; Resolution No. 14-35 for an intent to abandon property acquired for park purposes, the Mayor’s agency representatives; Resolution No. 14-36 designating Mary Su as the official voting delegate for the League of California Cities Annual Conference; a one year contract renewal with option to extend for two additional years with RPW, Inc. for trail and right of way maintenance services; the appropriation of grant funds for the Amar Road Rehabilitation Project totaling $998,000; and the approval for sports groups requests for bi-annual field use for Fall 2014.

After council members gave their reports on meetings, comments and updates for residents, the housing authority started its business, approving its only consent calendar item allowing claims and demands in the amount of $27,695.90.

The council members then adjourned to closed session with plans to meet for the next City Council meeting at 7 p.m. on Wed., Aug. 13, in the City Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

Eastvale Chamber Upcoming Events

Chamber Upcoming Events:

 

Aug 2             Let’s Go on Safari Presentation by Destined To Travel LLC

Aug 13           Eastvale City Council Meeting

Aug 20           Planning Commission Meeting

Aug 21           Second Annual Mega Mixer Business Expo

Aug 23           Sunrise Stampede XC Race

Aug 27           Eastvale City Council Meeting

Chino Hills: Basketball Standout Dies After Skateboard Accident

nnamdi-okongwu

Nnamdi Okongwu, 17 (ESPN Recruiting Nation Basketball)

Chino Hills – A gentle giant has fallen, as high school senior, Nnamdi Okongwu, was taken off life support and passed away on Fri., July 18.

After a skateboarding fall earlier last week that caused a serious head injury, Okongwu was airlifted on Tuesday to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center in Colton. According to reports, the injury resulted in a coma, and he was placed on life support until his family made the devastating decision to remove him.

The 6’8”, Class of 2015 senior was instrumental in helping to lead the Chino Hills High School Huskies to one of their best seasons ever this past year. With a Sierra League championship and a place in the CIF Southern Section Open Championship game, Okongwu – who played center position – was looking at a very prominent position on the team next year.

A scouting report from ESPN Recruiting Nation Basketball stated that, “Okongwu can dominate [at both] due to his size, length and strength. He has a big frame with long arms and soft hands. He snatches rebounds in traffic and can throw down some ferocious dunks in traffic. He has a fairly solid drop-step move as well.”

Though Okongwu – a Nigerian native – reportedly had received a scholarship offer from Loyola Marymount, other PAC—12 schools were showing interest as well. Colleges and the Chino Hills Huskies will have to carry on without the 17-year old hopeful.

Chino Hills High School will be holding a candlelight vigil for Okongwu on Tues., July 29, 7:30 p.m., at the football stadium. A memorial fund has also been set up at www.gofundme.com/4unnamdi.

 

 

The Weekly News Complete Edition 07.26.14

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 July26WeeklyAll  to access the complete July 26-Aug 1, 2014 issue in pdf format.

 

Walnut: Tragarz Vows “Honesty And Integrity” During Term As Mayor

 BY RAYMOND MENDOZA

 

walnut-mayor-tragarz

Walnut’s New Mayor, Nancy Tragarz (Photo Courtesy: Raymond Mendoza)

Walnut – During the July 9 city council meeting, titles were exchanged and Mayor Pro Tem, Nancy Tragarz, was officially sworn in as mayor for the City of Walnut- promising to uphold the community’s values and pledging to serve to the best of her abilities.

Tragarz, who served as mayor of Walnut once before from 2011 to 2012, said she’s looking forward to leading the council with a strong sense of leadership, finance, accounting and legal skills to help push along the city’s prominence.

“My goal is to create unity and teamwork on the council and in the entire community,” Tragarz said. “The policy I will fight for is transparency, honesty, ethics, and doing what is in the best interest of the community as a whole.”

In consideration for her background, Tragarz brings a wide variety of expertise to her role as mayor, having graduated from Walnut High School with highest honors in 1981 then obtaining a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from USC, magna cum laude, in 1985.

Tragarz then attended Loyola Law School while working as a certified law clerk for the Los Angeles County District Attorney. She passed the bar exam in 1991 and worked for two different law firms in the area of business litigation, bankruptcy, and contracts. She has also volunteered as a temporary judge in the Los Angeles County Courts since 1998.

In 2002, Tragarz worked part-time for a firm in order to spend more time with her two sons.

She then served as a vice chair for the City’s special ethics committee from 2002 to 2003, where she helped draft Walnut’s first code of ethics and candidates’ campaign manual.

By 2005, Tragarz was then appointed to the Parks and Recreation Commission and served as vice chair before being elected to Walnut’s City Council in 2008.

Tragarz said her long-time strategy of being honest and attuned with the needs of Walnut’s residents will keep the city moving in the right direction.

While elected officials sometimes have a tendency to oversell themselves with promises and delusions of grandeur, Tragarz remains realistic to her constituents by saying she has no specific agenda and that she would “respond to the needs and desires of the community.”

As she starts her second term as mayor of Walnut, Tragarz said the best way to deal with concerns of the public is to be informative and lawful in her decisions, stating that the residents are willing to accept the truth if they are provided with facts.

“I believe honesty and integrity is the best policy.”