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 Apr12Weekly-all-ClickHere to access the complete April 12-18, 2014 issue in pdf format.
Diamond Bar: Opening Day
Pastor Mark Hopper
BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER
When I was young, I remember my grandfather taking me and my brother to a big league baseball game. Arizona did not have any Major League Baseball teams at that time, but we would go to a game during Spring Training. It was exciting to see big name players like Ernie Banks and Willy Mays in person. That was a long time ago.
Now that we live in Southern California, it is possible to go to big league games all summer long. For several years we actually had season tickets for the Angels. It was fun to go to games week after week with our family and friends. There is something about being at the game that makes it special. The atmosphere is casual and people talk and eat throughout the game. And, then there are moments of suspense and excitement when the bases are loaded and our team hits a Grand Slam home run.
Opening Day has special significance. It is the day when a team plays its first game of the new season on its home field. The fans are excited, the field is perfectly groomed and there is a great sense of anticipation and hope for the new season. I know there are a lot of things that you can do with your kids in Southern California, but I hope you will consider taking them to a baseball game this summer. Both the Angels and the Dodgers are worth seeing.
Whether you are a parent or grandparent, don’t miss the opportunity to make a memory this year. Go see a big league baseball game with your kids or grandkids. It will be something they will remember for a long, long time. And, you will remember it, too!
Pastor Mark Hopper
Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar
3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.
(909) 594-7604
Sunday Services: 9 and 10:45 a.m.
Easter Sunday: 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m.
Website: www.efreedb.org
O.C. – 1.5 Million Awarded to Youth Organizations
By Emily Lundberg
Anaheim – On April 3, $1.5 million in grants was awarded to ten youth service organizations in Anaheim.
The grants were provided by Accelerated Change Together for Anaheim, more commonly known as ACT Anaheim, which is a partnership between Disneyland Resorts, the Anaheim Ducks, and the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim. The partnership began when Disneyland led an effort in 2012 to fund the Anaheim Hills Youth Service Assessment which highlighted the challenges that youth face. Anaheim is California’s tenth largest city and, according to the assessment, is home to nearly 20,000 youth who have access to limited or no community services.
Throughout the next three years, the iconic businesses have committed to donating three million dollars in grants for organizations that benefit the city’s at-risk youth. In an article discussing the program on the Duck’s website, Angels’ chairman, Dennis Kuhl, said they hope other organizations and citizens will join ACT Anaheim in the effort to support the City’s youth.
In addition to those three corporations, the Orange County Community Foundation joined ACT Anaheim as a managing partner. This led to an increase in funding for the first grant pool from $1 million to $1.5 million when the foundation donated $300,000 from their donor pool and Disney added an additional $200,000 to their original commitment. Grant applications were accepted November through mid-December of 2013 and ranged from $100,000 to $200,000. According to a press release from the Orange County Community Foundation, decisions were based on “their [each organization’s] ability to address the specific needs addressed in the 2012 Anaheim Youth Services Assessment”. The gaps identified include, but are not limited to, gang prevention activities, programs for older students, and safe places to hang out.
Among the ten grantees were the Boys and Girls Club of Anaheim which received a $175,000 grant, the Anaheim Family YMCA who received $125,000, and Girls Incorporated of Orange County which received $175,000.
EASTVALE – Helping Others Can Help Ourselves
Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point Church in Eastvale
By Pastor Mark Lee
According to a report issued by the Corporation for National and Community Service, there are approximately 64 million people in the United States who donate more than 8 billion hours of time to their communities annually. In terms of the national economy, these contributions are valued at nearly $175 billion dollars. However, the rewards for the volunteers themselves are priceless.
While the United States celebrates April as National Volunteer Month, much will be said about the ways volunteerism benefits communities. But, we should also remember that there is much to be gained through community service. As the poet Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “It is one of the most beautiful compensations of life that no man can sincerely try to help another without helping himself.”
Studies show that volunteer work has the ability to increase self-confidence, combat depression, and diminish the symptoms of chronic pain. And these are just the health benefits! Serving others can also improve professional skills, build relationships, and provide career experience. However, the greatest benefit of unselfish, humble service is the fact that it gives us the opportunity to mature and grow as individuals.
In Acts 20:23, the apostle Luke wrote, “In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remember the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’” Sure, there are a million reasons why you can’t volunteer – you don’t have the time, you don’t have the money, and you may not even have the desire. And true, the world will continue to revolve if you do not serve. Your community will continue to thrive and your neighbors will be okay. But will you?
VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 8:30, 10, and 11:30 a.m.
Corona: South Coast Patio Has You Covered
Call South Coast Patio at (951) 277-0956 for your Free Patio Design & Estimate. Photo Courtesy: South Coast Patio
STAFF REPORTS
Corona – If you are in the market for a new patio, there is no better way to get the quality you are searching for than by contacting a company with a Triple-A rating and absolutely no issues. South Coast Patio, Inc. is your answer.
Owner, Jim McGeough, started working as a kid in a neighborhood business and started his own business in 1972; he has been working as a general contractor for 35 years, and has 40 years of experience in his field. South Coast Patio has been working in the area for the past 20 years, and McGeough’s philosophy is “to have satisfied customers so that we can have continued relationships with them.” They have made an excellent reputation in building quality custom patio products.
South Coast Patio is licensed and bonded (General Contractor Lic. B-280672), and has an excellent rating with the Contractors Board, BBB, and the Golden State Builders Exchange, Inc. They employ only factory trained personnel and do not use subcontractors. Their products are manufactured locally of the highest quality and have a limited lifetime warranty.
South Coast Patio is not your ordinary patio company. They guarantee the lowest overall prices for the best quality materials available. South Coast Patio is a well-established company, offering long-term service and warranties. McGeough says that his company will match any competitor’s price.
You can reach South Coast Patio at (951) 277-0956.
Diamond Bar, Walnut High Among America’s Most Challenging Schools
By Kelli Gile
Walnut – Diamond Bar and Walnut High Schools are among the most academically challenging schools in the nation, according to the annual rankings by the Washington Post. Both schools made the 2014 “America’s Most Challenging High Schools,” listing that includes more than 1,900 public high schools (released on April 7).
Diamond Bar High School (DBHS) ranked 318 on the national listing, up from 399 in 2012. DBHS also improved its state ranking to 38, up from 45 last year.
“Diamond Bar High School has made a concerted effort to increase access to our Advanced Placement courses. We are pleased to see that more students are successfully attempting these courses and that our efforts to establish equitable access to rigorous courses are being recognized by publications like the Washington Post. We are very proud of our staff, students, parents, and community for their hard work and support,” said Principal Catherine Real.
“DBHS actually ranks 30th in the state if you remove all private schools from the list,” Real added. “Many of the remaining schools on the list have special admission screening processes. The fact that Diamond Bar High School is an open enrollment school and still ranks among the best in the state and nation is extremely impressive!”
Walnut High School ranked 533 on the national listing and 67 in the state ranking. “We’re always excited to be ranked as one of the top high schools not only in the state, but also nationally. Our staff and students worked really hard to be recognized with this honor. I’m always appreciative of the support our community provides to Walnut High School,” said Principal Jeff Jordan.
“However, the part that disappoints me with this ranking is that it doesn’t provide the data accurately for our school,” said Jordan, “For example, it doesn’t list the 22 AP courses, the 18 IB courses, 18 varsity sports, and the high percentage of our graduates attending four-year colleges. If the data was included, I am confident our ranking would be much higher.”
Since 1998, Washington Post columnist, Jay Mathews, has rated public high schools around the country with the Challenge Index. The index takes the total number of Advanced Placement, International Baccalaureate and Advanced International Certificate of Education tests given at the school that year and divides it by the number of seniors who graduated in May or June.
“With a few exceptions, public schools that achieved a ratio of at least 1.000, meaning they had as many tests in 2013 as they had graduates, were put on the national list,” Mathews said. Before posting the list, he also filters out magnet or charter high schools that have few average-performing students. According to Mathews, this year only nine percent of the approximately 22,000 U.S. public high schools managed to reach that standard and be included on the list.
For more information, see http://apps.washingtonpost.com/local/highschoolchallenge/.
Community Events
Staff Reports
UPCOMING EVENTS:
National Child Abuse Prevention Month
When: Month of April
Where: Walnut Fire Station 61 (Lemon Avenue and La Puente Road)
Details: In support of National Child Abuse Prevention Month, the Walnut Valley Women’s Club facilitated the planting of a garden of pinwheels at Fire Station 61. The pinwheels will remain throughout the month of April. “Pinwheels for Prevention” is a Prevent Child Abuse America program which promotes the message that, “All children deserve an equal chance to thrive and grow.”
Diamond Bar Birthday Celebration
When: Saturday, April 12 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pantera Park, 738 Pantera Drive, Diamond Bar
Contact: (909) 839-7000
DBHS Spring Musical “The Pirates of Penzance”
When: April 24, 25, 26 and May 1, 2, 3 at 7 p.m.
Where: DBHS Theatre, 21400 E. Pathfinder Road in Diamond Bar
Details: Tickets sales are available at http://www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama. Sections B, C, D: Adults are $18, Students w/ID are $15. Sections A, E: Adults are $15, Students w/ID are $12.
Contact: Beatrice Casagran at (909) 594-1405, ext. 33276
Diamond Bar AYSO: Registration ages 4 to 18 years of age.
When: April 24, May, May 15, and June 3, 2014 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Pantera Park
Details: Please visit DBAYSO.ORG for registration procedures for both volunteers and players ages 4 to 18.
Contact: Greg M. Busch, R31_Safety@dbayso.org
21th Annual Diamond Bar Library Wine Soirée
When: Sunday, April 27
Where: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue in Diamond Bar
Details: An afternoon of delicious food from local restaurants, great wine from the Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition, music, and exciting book, silent and live auctions. A unique souvenir wine glass and program are included with each ticket. All of the proceeds go directly to your local community library.
Cost: Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $60 at the door.
Contact: (909) 861-2002
FUTURE EVENTS:
Music at the Point
When: Saturday, May 3, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: South Pointe Middle School, 20671 Larkstone Drive, Diamond Bar
Details:
Walnut Senior Center Peddler’s Market
When: May 3 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Walnut Senior Center
Details: Residents are encouraged to clean out those cupboards, closets, garages and become a vendor at the annual Peddler’s Market. Vendors may purchase two full parking spaces for $35 or three full parking spaces for $50.
Contact: Kim Watts at the Walnut Senior Center at (909) 598-6200.
Fire Service Day
When: Saturday, May 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: City of Industry Fire Station 118; 17056 Gale Avenue, City of Industry
Details: Join the Los Angeles County Fire Station as they celebrate Fire Service Day with Fire Engines, Pool Safety, Jaws of Life Demonstration, and Equipment Displays.
OPARC’s Heart and Sole: Fun Run 1K/5K and Health Fair
When: June 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Ruben S. Ayala Park, 5575 Edison Ave., Chino CA 91710
Cost: Entry fee for runners/walkers is $20, inspiration signs are $50, vendor booths are $150 and additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Free parking
Details: OPARC, a 501(c)(3) organization that trains, employs and serves the mentally disabled community. Food vendors, vendor booths, participant awards, music, guest appearances, and more. Walk-ins are welcome.
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: Community Unites to Help Rescue “Job” the Black Lab
Job greeting his foster family at the gate as they pull up. He still has some fear but is getting better, and wags his tail to greet them. Photo Courtesy: Erika Allis
By Jennifer Madrigal
Eastvale – The elusive black Labrador who has been able to avoid rescue for weeks, has finally been captured and is recovering well.
Many residents had reported seeing him in the area of the Von’s Shopping Center and even as far as the 15 Freeway. He had been chased off roads, freeways and bridges but managed to avoid rescue several times. Finally, on the morning of March 26, Eastvale Pets Lost and Found Facebook Administrator, Erika Allis, posted another sighting of him onto her Facebook page. The message was also shared on Norco’s Lost and Found page, and Elizabeth Duffy and Kate Haynes decided to take action.
The two ladies, who are very actively involved in animal rescues and fostering, jumped in their vehicles and headed down to the dirt lot by Von’s where the lab, affectionately named, “Job”, had been spotted. Armed with a leash and treats they tried to lure Job to them. After several tries they decided to leave the leash and treats with some of the day laborers who were in the area in case Job would approach them. A short time later, one of the men was able to get Job on a leash and called Elizabeth. When they arrived to pick up Job it was clear that he was terrified and injured. Very slowly and with great care, they were able to get Job into their vehicle and to a local vet.
Julie Logan, co-administrator for the Eastvale Pets Lost and Found, made a call to Eldad Hagar of Hope for Paws Rescue and he agreed to cover all of Job’s vet bills as long as Job went to a Foster Family. Job’s vet bills surpassed $800 and good to his word, Eldad covered every penny. Job was treated for old injuries that had healed wrong, like broken bones and a dislocated hip. The pain from these injuries was most likely what made him so terrified of the people trying to save him.
Since being released from the vet, Job has been receiving lots of loving care from Elizabeth Duffy and her family. He’s healing up, learning to trust again and making great progress. According to Erika Allis, owner of the Pet Patrol, “He’s even wagging his tail again and has formed a close bond with Elizabeth’s daughter.”
Job has not been claimed as of this day and will hopefully find a forever family soon.
If you find a lost dog or cat, send the picture and information to Eastvale Pets Lost and Found Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/EastvaleLostAndFoundPets.
SGV-IE: Costco Secrets To Shopping
Is it weird I feel like I’m part of a secret club or something?
Eastvale: “LUGER BANDIT” Linked To Seventh Bank Robberies Since Jan 2012 Following Bank Robbery Wed. In San Dimas
FBI Press Release
Following a bank robbery this morning in San Dimas, California, law enforcement has linked an unidentified suspect known only as the “Luger Bandit” to a seventh bank, six of which were robbed and one where an attempted robbery occurred. Law enforcement agencies in Los Angeles, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties are seeking the public’s assistance in order to identify and determine the whereabouts of the Luger Bandit. Two of the banks that were victimized are offering a combined reward of up to $15,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the suspect.*
The suspect was described by witnesses as a white or Hispanic male, approximately 30-40 years in age; between 5’8” and 6” in height; and approximately 200 lbs.
During each robbery, the suspect orders employees and customers to the ground, brandishes a weapon and demands cash in various denominations. The suspect’s weapon has been described by witnesses as silver in color and resembling a German Luger-style weapon. During today’s robbery, the Luger Bandit entered the Chase Bank at 1198 Via Verde Avenue in San Dimas and demanded cash while brandishing a weapon.
In previous robberies, witnesses have described the suspect’s vehicle as a charcoal gray BMW, 3-series with a sports package.
The suspect can be seen in bank surveillance photos wearing pullover sweatshirts with hoods and jeans, as well as a facemask, sunglasses and black gloves to conceal his appearance. The suspect is also carrying a black bag with a strap during the robberies.
The Luger Bandit has been linked to the following robberies:
1/3/13 Wells Fargo Granada Hills
2/18/13 Wells Fargo Fontana
3/8/13 Wells Fargo San Dimas (Attempt)
3/12/13 Chase Bank Mira Loma
6/4/13 Bank of America Corona
1/8/14 Wells Fargo Bank Corona
4/9/14 Chase Bank San Dimas
Bank surveillance photographs from today’s robbery and previous robberies are being released publicly in order to identify the suspect (see below). Anyone with information as to the identity or the whereabouts of the unidentified suspect known as the Luger Bandit is urged to contact the FBI or dial 911. In Los Angeles, the FBI can be reached 24 hours a day at 310 477-6565.
This investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; the Los Angeles Police Department; the Fontana Police Department; the Corona Police Department; and the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.
*Specific criteria for each bank reward offer applies.
Walnut: Unofficial Election Results for Walnut
By K.P. Sander
Walnut – The Walnut Municipal Election took place on Tues., April 8. The unofficial results show incumbent candidates Bob Pacheco and Mary Su earning the two open seats on the City Council.
The entire election has been awash in controversy as allegations of campaign sign theft between contenders Mary Su and Betty Tang reached the point of Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff Station involvement. Just last week accusatory complaints were filed against Tang after Su’s campaign signs were allegedly located in a dumpster immediately behind her campaign office. There were denials and finger-pointing, which of course detracted from the importance of the election and putting the right people in place. Voters also found themselves trying to make decisions through research tainted by attack ads sponsored by two political organizations, Citizens to Protect Walnut, and Taxpayers for Quality Leadership (see anapr.com for related stories).
“This certainly was the most intense and expensive Walnut City election that I can remember,” said Mt. Sac Board Vice President David Hall. “Hopefully Walnut’s leaders can now get back to solving the challenges faced by the city and making a great city even greater.”
Once the nomination period ended this January and the time before the election became sensitive, the mudslinging began. This included concerns regarding challenger Betty Tang’s campaign contributions (see story below) as well as the sign theft complaints.
But voters made a decision through the rubble, and they have decided Pacheco and Su should remain in office and help steer the City of Walnut onward. Once the election results are final, the council members will be sworn in at the next City Council meeting this month.
Corona: A Trio of Troubles for Corona
Staff Reports
Corona – A sad trio of events has taken place in the City of Corona recently.
A woman was sexually assaulted after being kidnapped from the Corona Wal-Mart (479 N. McKinley Avenue) at knifepoint at about 9pm on Thurs., April 3. The man was reportedly asking for change when he entered her vehicle, threatened her with a knife and made her drive to a secluded area. After the assault, he then allegedly made her drive to an intersection in proximity to La Sierra and Indiana Avenues, where he fled on foot about 4 a.m.
The victim did not report the crime until Sunday evening, police Sgt. Kim Velasquez said via written statement. The suspect is described as a Caucasian male, about 5’ 7”, slender build. He was wearing jeans, a grey sweatshirt, and black ball cap. Anyone with information regarding this incident should contact Detective Mario Hernandez at (951) 279-3659.
On Friday, April 4, a live bomb was discovered at Jameson Park (located at 1155 Valencia Road). According to Corona Police official, Sgt. Kim Velasco, a bomb squad was able to completely disarm and destroy the device without incident by use of a blast squad and robot.
An individual reportedly contacted police after discovering a suspicious device inside an irrigation control box around 10 a.m. No arrests have been made. This investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information is encouraged to contact the Corona Police Department at 951-736-2334
Corona police had a grim find in an apartment complex dumpster in the 2200 block of Treemont Place when a newborn baby girl was discovered. They were led to this realization by a 24-year old woman, who was admitted to Kaiser Hospital in Riverside on Tues., April 8, a little after 5 p.m.
The woman allegedly denied giving birth after her examination, but eventually confessed to delivering a stillborn infant at home. Police officials reportedly found the infant around midnight. Autopsy results are pending.
Eastvale: Watch Your Sipping To Slim Down For Summer
BY NICOLE GILLES, RD, CDE, CSR
Nicole Gilles, RD, CDE, CSR
If you have taken a stroll through our local Eastvale stores recently, you may have experienced the same dreadful feeling as I have when you see aisles and aisles tiny bathing suits and cute summer clothes. That’s when you realize it’s about time to put those comfy winter clothes away and get your “beach body” ready for summer. If you are looking to sport your best beach body ever, now is the time to start. Begin the process by swapping those warm winter carbs, like pasta and potatoes, for fresh spring carbs, like seasonal fruits and vegetables. But our food intake is only half the battle; we also need to think about what we are drinking. Of course, any beverage with calories cuts into our food calories for the day. This not only includes juice and sodas, but also alcohol. The majority of Americans consume about 1,000 calories a day from their beverage choices, which does not leave much room for food. Choosing zero calorie beverages will not only whittle that waist line, but will also leave more room for food so you can shape up without feeling wiped out. One beverage in particular to watch is alcohol. But isn’t a glass of wine a day recommended for “Heart Health?” If one glass is good, two is better, right? Wrong. The secret is moderation. Just three ounces of wine or beer, or one ounce of liquor slows our calorie burning by 30 percent, and is full of empty calories. It takes a mile of walking to burn off each six ounce glass of wine or 12 ounces of beer. If we want to protect our heart without slowing down our calorie burning, cut out the alcohol and change your focus to food and fitness. Eating five to six servings of fruits and vegetables each day and getting in 30 minutes of moderate exercise will protect our hearts and help us look amazing in those summer clothes. This April, spread the word of National Alcohol Awareness Month and ‘cut the booze to help you lose’ the winter weight and look slimmer for summer. If you would like to slim down this spring, look no further than your local Eastvale Registered Dietitian, Nicole Gilles, RD, CDE, CSR. Nicole is the owner of Happy and Healthy Nutrition and she is ready to help you achieve your health and weight goals. Through her program, you will learn how to eat for your body’s individual needs and learn how to deal with emotional eating. Happy and Healthy Nutrition members learn when to eat, why you eat, and how to eat to lose weight and keep it off for the rest of your life. What are you waiting for? Start today, for a happy and healthy tomorrow. Contact Happy and Healthy Nutrition at http://www.HandHnutrition.com, or call (909) 816-0977; and like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/happyandhealthynutrition.nicolegilles. Virtual Counseling is also available. Check out their ad on this page for a special available to Eastvale News readers.
Inland Empire/San Gabriel Valley: Calendar of Events 04/05/2014
STAFF REPORTS
UPCOMING EVENTS
Discover How to Become A “Road Scholar” with Free Seminar
When: April 7, from 7 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.
Where: Air Quality Management District, 21865 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar
Details: Come to this free seminar and learn about Road Scholar – America’s first, and world’s largest educational, not-for-profit travel organization for adults. The speaker will be Jill Swaim.
Contact: Diamond Bar/Walnut Branch of American Association of University Women at diamondbarwalnut-ca.aauw.net
2014 Public Health Expo
When: April 11 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument (Olvera Street) at 125 Paseo de la Plaza
Details: FREE health screenings, free pet vaccinations, and services. Learn about: immunizations, women’s health, nutrition, and other health information. Live entertainment: Mariachi Los Toros, Groov3 dancing, yoga, and more.
Contact: dial 2-1-1 or visit http://www.publichealth.lacounty.gov.
Diamond Bar Birthday Celebration
When: Saturday, April 12 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Where: Pantera Park, 738 Pantera Drive, Diamond Bar
Contact: (909) 839-7000
DBHS Spring Musical “The Pirates of Penzance”
When: April 24, 25, 26 and May 1,2, 3 at 7 p.m.
Where: DBHS Theatre at 21400 E. Pathfinder Road in Diamond Bar
Details: Tickets sales are available at http://www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama. Sections B, C, D: Adults are $18, Students w/ID are $15. Sections A, E: Adults are $15, Students w/ID are $12.
Contact: Beatrice Casagran at (909) 594-1405 ext. 33276
Diamond Bar AYSO: Registration ages 4 to 18 years of age.
When: April 24, May, May 15, and June 3, 2014 at 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Where: Pantera Park
Details: Please visit DBAYSO.ORG for registration procedures for both volunteers and players ages 4 to 18.
Contact: Greg M. Busch, R31_Safety@dbayso.org
21th Annual Diamond Bar Library Wine Soirée
When: Sunday, April 27
Where: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue in Diamond Bar
Details: An afternoon of delicious food from local restaurants, great wine from the Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition, music, and exciting book, silent and live auctions. A unique souvenir wine glass and program are included with each ticket. All of the proceeds go directly to your local community library.
Cost: Tickets are $50 per person in advance and $60 at the door.
Contact: (909) 861-2002
FUTURE EVENTS:
Walnut Senior Center Peddler’s Market
When: May 3 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Walnut Senior Center
Details: Residents are encouraged to clean out those cupboards, closets, garages and become a vendor at the annual Peddler’s Market. Vendors may purchase two full parking spaces for $35 or three full parking spaces for $50.
Contact: Kim Watts at the Walnut Senior Center at 909-598-6200.
OPARC’s Heart and Sole: Fun Run 1K/5K and health fair
When: June 14, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Where: Ruben S. Ayala Park, 5575 Edison Ave., Chino CA 91710
Cost: Entry fee for runners/walkers is $20, inspiration signs are $50, vendor booths are $150 and additional sponsorship opportunities are available. Free parking
Details: OPARC, a 501(c)(3) organization that trains, employs an serves the mentally disabled community. Food vendors, vendor booths, participant awards, music, guest appearances, and more. Walk-ins are welcome.
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 Tuesdays 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 appreciate afternoons.
Free Acupuncture for veterans, active military, first responders
When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.
Where: 12598 Central Ave. 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: Admission/parking free
Features: seasonal organic produce, breads and cakes, olive oils, cheese and spreads, a variety of nursery plants, hand-crafted items and jewelry, and fresh-popped Kettle corn and grilled food plates.
Contact: (909) 869-0701
Eastvale: Distracted Driving Enforcement
Eastvale, CA (April 9, 2014) – As part of April’s Distracted Driving Awareness Month campaign, the Eastvale Police
Department will be joining with over 200 other local law enforcement agencies and the California Highway Patrol in a month long “zero tolerance” enforcement and education campaign to curb those texting or operating handheld cell phones while driving.
The Eastvale Police Department conducted a special high visibility enforcement operation to cite cell phone violators in the area of Rosa Parks Elementary School and Augustine Ramirez Intermediate School.
As a direct result of the operation, 29 drivers were cited for various unsafe driving actions. The violations cited included cell phone violations, crosswalk right of way violations, seatbelt violations, red light violations, and unlicensed driver violations. One vehicle was stored during the operation.
The increased enforcement and education aims to persuade drivers to recognize the dangers of distracted driving and reduce the number of people impacted by this perilous behavior. The “It’s Not Worth It!” theme emphasizes that a phone call or text isn’t worth a hefty fine or a collision. The current minimum ticket cost is $161, with subsequent tickets costing at least $281.
“We take the issue of distracted driving very seriously,” said Eastvale Police Lt. Mike Yates, “because we see the aftermath of these totally preventable crashes. Is that text message or cell phone call really worth $161, or worse, someone’s life?”
Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves. In addition, studies show that texting while driving can delay a driver’s reaction time just as severely as having a blood alcohol content of a legally drunk driver. According to research, sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. Even a three second glance at freeway speeds means a driver has traveled the distance of a football field.
Research shows that there is no difference in the risks between hands-free and hand-held cell phone conversations, both of which can result in “inattention blindness” which occurs when the brain isn’t seeing what is clearly visible because the drivers’ focus is on the phone conversation and not on the road. When over one third of your brain’s functioning that should be on your driving moves over to cell phone talking, you can become a cell phone “zombie.”
Join the City of Eastvale in our support for the “It’s Not Worth it Campaign!” Cell phones, texting. It’s not worth it. It’s just that simple.
Resources from the California Office of Traffic Safety:http://ots.ca.gov/Media_and_Research/Campaigns/Distracted_Driving.asp
Distracted Driving Fact Sheet (pdf)
Printable Distracted Driving Tip Card (pdf)
Printable Pledge Card (pdf)
Release and Image Courtesy of City of Eastvale
Eastvale: Chairman Of The Board’s Message April 2014
By Joel Seigler
Joel Seigler, Eastvale Chamber of Commerce Chairman. Photo Courtesy: Eastvale Chamber of Commerce
Eastvale – The Chamber of Commerce appreciates the City of Eastvale in all the help we received in getting the State of the City event to the forefront of the community. We are excited about this event and all the information it provided to the community. We are proud of partnering with the City and the generous business sponsors that made the event a success.
The Chamber is the voice of businesses in Eastvale and as such we have been printing and distributing the Eastvale Directory as part of a supplement to the Eastvale Community News. We intend to continue this as a semi-annual supplement and will start a trial edition of a new coupon book that will be coming out soon. We hope that this coupon book will encourage you all to try out our local businesses and give them a chance to earn your business before you shop elsewhere. The main source of revenue for the City of Eastvale comes from sales tax and the more you SHOP EASTVALE the more that money stays in Eastvale.
This City is growing with more businesses opening up in our town and they are eager to earn your support. In addition, please make sure to come out and take advantage of the networking and business opportunities at our events.
Inland Empire: The Great Pretender
BY MICHAEL ARMIJO
I remember dressing up like batman; the little K-Mart suit with the plastic mask. I remember watching SWAT and grabbing a stick like it was my machine gun. I remember trying to lift the car because I wanted to be Steve Austin, the Six Million Dollar Man.
You’d think it was healthy to give your imagination a chance to flourish, to enhance your creativity. But without proper guidance, explanation, and influence, it’s hard to differentiate between reality and fantasy. Without explanation, the lines of reality are blurred, so you embed in your mind that when life seems difficult you can mask your pain, like you did when you were a child, and become someone you’re not.
I remember being stressed to a point that I felt I could no longer take it. So I went out, drank, and became someone I wasn’t. I pretended to be someone who didn’t exist, someone I never was and never could be. I reverted to my child-like instincts and put on that K-Mart batman mask and picked up that SWAT stick while trying to lift that car. I became the Great Pretender.
While acting like I was a college scholar, a big shot at my company, or a racing car driver, I really felt alive. I felt like a complete human being because my mind was hungry to be complete, like a child who wants to become a super hero. My lies were my super power and my reality was my kryptonite.
I liked the escape of not being who I was. Abused and neglected. Deceived and tormented. Tortured and ridiculed. Worst of all, I was verbally accosted and left to play violent and damaging tapes of lies and pain. Pretending was an escape, which helped me not only overcome the pain I had been suffering, but allowed me to feel as though I were normal for a while. It made me feel like I was a human being. Something I’d yearned to feel like for so many years. These incidents happened so quickly and many years have passed. But today the memories are still haunting.
In the past I had embraced my desire to be something I’m not. But today I will seek to be someone who makes me feel complete. I will no longer wear the mask I had worn for so many years. I will seek truth in myself and accept what has transpired throughout my life. But I will continue to pretend, now in a fun and joyful manner; because yesterday, today, and tomorrow, I am, deep inside, the Great Pretender.
Pacheco and Su Win Walnut City Election
BY MICHAEL ARMIJO
Walnut- The results are in and Bob Pacheco and Mary Su beat challenger Betty Tang in one of the worst elections in Walnut History.
“We won, the people of Walnut have decided to bring us back to continue the great things we’ve accomplished here in Walnut.” Said Councilman Bob Pacheco at the victory party.
The line challenger, Betty Tang, raised almost $100,000 to beat the incumbents but fell hundreds of votes short.
“Nine hit pieces against me, NINE,” said winner Mary Su. “This is far too many and in our wonderful city. We are happy to defeat such an ugly campaign.”
Results are posted on the city of Walnut website.
EASTVALE: Toddler Falls From Second Story Window
By: STAFF REPORTS
Eastvale- A crew of two fire engines, an ambulance and a helicopter were dispatched to come to the aid of a toddler who fell from a second story window in Eastvale.
The accident happened at a residence located along the 6800 block of River Run Court in Eastvale around 6:00 p.m. on Monday, April 7. According to Riverside County Fire Officials, the toddler was immediately flown to a trauma center for the treatment of moderate to serious injuries.
Details of the incident are not available at this time.
Weekly News 4-5-2014
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 04-05WeeklypgALLClickHere to access the complete April 5-11, 2014 issue in pdf format.
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