EASTVALE : Chino Desalter Expansion Project Set to Begin in March

Photo Courtesy of : Chino Basin Desalter Agency

Photo Courtesy of : Chino Basin Desalter Agency

BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL

The Chino Basin Desalter Authority (CDA) will be constructing a 30 inch pipeline through Eastvale to deliver drinking water to the cites of Eastvale, Ontario and Norco, as well as the Western Municipal Water District and Jurupa Community Services District.

The Pipeline Project is part of an overall expansion of the CDA’s Water treatment and delivery system and once completed, the expansion will provide an additional 10 million gallons per day of drinking water to the local area.

Construction will start at Mississippi Drive and continue northbound along Hamner Avenue to Riverside Drive. Transitions and reductions in lanes with reduction of speed to 25-30 mph is expected. Although there will be some delays, Hamner will remain open. To prevent detours, the CDA plans to have some night construction, flag men, and will not be working through the holiday season (Thanksgiving 2014- Jan. 1, 2015). In addition, there will be water shut-downs as needed, but by using phasing limits in construction, inconveniences should be kept to a minimum.

Construction on this project is expected to begin March 2014 and conclude in February 2015. If you have any concerns or questions,  a construction hotline has been set up: 951-703-4472 or contact rcastaneda@eastvaleca.gov

Walnut Valley: WV Named to AP Honor Roll

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Caption: Walnut Valley Unified School District is an AP Honor Roll recipient.

AP Honor Roll

Walnut Valley Unified School District is an AP Honor Roll recipient. (Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile)

BY KELLI GILE

Walnut—Walnut Valley Unified School District has been named to College Board’s 2013 AP District Honor Roll.

The 4th annual list includes 477 districts across the U.S. and Canada being honored for increasing access to AP® course work while simultaneously maintaining or increasing the percentage of students earning scores of 3 or higher on AP Exams.
Walnut Valley has achieved the honor for multiple years.

“Congratulations to our outstanding students, teachers, staff members and administrators. This distinction confirms Walnut Valley’s ongoing commitment to preparing our students for college, careers and beyond,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Reaching these goals indicates that these districts are successfully identifying motivated, academically prepared students who are likely to benefit from rigorous AP course work, according to College Board.

Data from 2013 show that among African American, Hispanic, and Native American students with a high degree of readiness for AP, only about half of students are participating because their schools do not always offer the AP course for which they have potential. These 477 districts are committed to expanding the availability of AP courses among prepared and motivated students of all backgrounds.

Helping more students learn at a higher level and earn higher AP scores is an objective of all members of the AP community, from AP teachers to district and school administrators, to college professors. Many districts are experimenting with a variety of initiatives and strategies to determine how to simultaneously expand access and improve student performance.

Inclusion on the 4th Annual AP District Honor Roll is based on the examination of three years of AP data, from 2011 to 2013, for the following criteria:

  • Increased participation/access to AP by at least four percent in large districts, at least six percent in medium districts, and at least 11 percent in small districts;
  •  Increased or maintained the percentage of exams taken by African American, Hispanic/Latino, and American Indian/Alaska Native students, and;
  • Improved performance levels when comparing the percentage of students in 2013 scoring a three or higher to those in 2011, unless the district has already attained a performance level at which more than 70 percent of its AP students are scoring a three or higher

Orange County: Young Girl Stabbed to Death in Yorba Linda

Aubreyanna Sade Parks

Aubreyanna Sade Parks, 17

Caption: Aubreyanna Sade Parks, 17
Photo Courtesy: Orange County Sheriffs Dept.

STAFF REPORTS

Yorba Linda – A young girl who was found stabbed to death in Yorba Linda has been identified as a 17-year-old runaway from Gardena. According to authorities, Aubreyanna Sade Parks had been reported as a runaway and was more than 30 miles away from home when she was assaulted. Parks received multiple stab wounds which were discovered when her body was found bleeding on a curb by bicyclists in the area.
Larry Soo Shin, 35, is being held in county jail on suspicion of murder, but officials with the Orange County Sheriff’s Department would not release details of what investigators believe may have led to Parks’ stabbing death in an upscale neighborhood. According to arrest records, he is being held in Theo Lacy Jail in lieu of $1 million bail. Shin had a scheduled court appearance on Thursday, Feb. 6.
Parks had previously been arrested on charges of prostitution and officials are trying to determine what the relationship between Parks and Shin was. Neither Parks nor Shin lived in the area, officials said.
According to public records, Shin is a resident of Yorba Linda but lives more than a mile away from the crime scene. Shin’s residence was searched by law enforcement officials on Tuesday evening, but nothing official has been released.

Diamond Bar: Lessons For Life

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

BY MARK HOPPER

We are continuing to study the Old Testament book of Ezra on Sunday mornings at our church. I noticed several practical lessons in chapter four that seem to easily apply to our lives today.
You may be in business or education. You may be married or single. You may be a politician or a business professional. It seems like these principles can apply to almost anyone of any age.
First, don’t compromise your values and convictions. In this fourth chapter of Ezra, the Jewish people faced an important decision. Will they compromise their convictions or stick to their core values?
How often have we warned our teenagers to not go with the crowd or give in to peer pressure? How often have you faced a difficult decision in your business or personal life that may involve compromising your convictions?
If you compromise, you may regret it later. If you stick to your core values, you will rarely regret it.
Second, expect opposition and criticism. In Ezra chapter four, the Jewish people declined the offer from others to help with the re-building of their Temple. Immediately, these friends turned into foes. They tried to hinder and stop the progress on the new Temple.
When you try to stick to your values and not compromise, you should expect to be criticized. Some people won’t understand why you won’t go along with the crowd. Business associates may question your loyalty to the company when you refuse to follow the new policy that you feel goes against your values.
Third, expect delays and difficulties. When you stick to your core values, you may face a bumpy road ahead. In Ezra chapter four, those who opposed their effort hired lobbyists and lawyers to try to stop their progress.
Often we hear in the news today of groups that oppose a new freeway, new housing development or new shopping center. They will hire lawyers and experts to prevent a new project from being completed.
Certainly we need to study and evaluate how a new freeway or housing development will impact those who live nearby. But even after permission is granted, some will continue to try to delay its completion.

When you try to stick to your convictions and when you are not willing to compromise your core values, expect difficulties and delays along the way. You may not get a promotion in your company or you may not get the recognition you deserve in your school.

But, when you stick to your convictions and when you refuse to compromise your core values, you will sleep better at night. You will enjoy a sense of peace. I think you will be glad you did!

Pastor Mark Hopper
Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar
3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd
(909) 594-7604
Sunday Services: 9 a.m. & 10:45 a.m.
Website: http://www.efreedb.org

Eastvale: Police Department Conducts Saturation Patrols

Eastvale Police Department Conducts Saturation Patrols
Courtesy City of Eastvale

On Thursday, February 13th and Friday, February 14th, the Eastvale Police Department conducted special saturation patrols in the City of Eastvale.

The saturation patrol on Thursday, February 13th resulted in 228 incidents from 12:00 a.m. on Thursday morning to 12:00 a.m. on Friday morning. During that 24-hour period, approximately one hundred and thirty-one (131) citations were issued for various offenses including parking violations and moving violations. The average number of incidents per day in the City of Eastvale is normally sixty-five.

The officers paid extra attention providing education, awareness and enforcement around the school sites on Thursday due to increased incidents of traffic collisions with bicycles around the Eastvale school sites. This resulted in 41 citations for failure to wear youth bicycle helmets as defined in California Vehicle Code Section 21212.

On Friday, February 14th two Eastvale patrol units, in cooperation with Jurupa Valley and Riverside County patrol units, conducted a special traffic enforcement taskforce. Visitors to the Eastvale Gateway Shopping Center may have seen the six units gathered together conducting a field briefing during this special operation. Friday’s special joint traffic enforcement taskforce was again very successful in providing increased education, awareness and enforcement in the city.

Diamond Bar: High School Football Coach Steps Down

Diamond Bar Highschool Football

(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

BY KELLI GILE

Diamond Bar— Diamond Bar High School Coach Ryan Maine has decided to step down as Varsity Football Coach.
Ryan and his wife Lindsay are pursuing opportunities for their family that may include relocation.
“We truly appreciate all that Coach Maine has done for the program over his entire history at DBHS. We fully support him and his wife in their future endeavors and wish them the best of luck,” said Principal Catherine Real.
“We will be conducting a comprehensive search for a new Head Football Coach to ensure that our student athletes will be successful for years to come,” Real added.
Maine served three years as Head Coach and seven years in the Brahma Football Program. Even though Maine will step down as coach, he will remain on the Diamond Bar High School staff as a teacher.
“We appreciate the efforts that Coach Maine and his entire staff have made over the last three years. We are in a much better place because of this. Principal Real and I have already begun the search for a new Head Coach and are excited to see where that search will take us. Coach Maine will still be around for the immediate future and will assist in making the transition as smooth as possible. I can’t thank Ryan and Lindsay enough for the extreme sacrifice they have made over the last three years to bring Brahma football back where it belongs,” said Athletic Director Kurt Davies.

Eastvale: Avoiding the Traps

Pastor Rob Norris

Pastor Rob Norris (image courtesy of Google Images)

BY PASTOR ROB NORRIS

Psalm 31:4 – Protect me from hidden traps and keep me safe.

Try to picture this scene: With 50,000 men watching intensely, a 15-year-old young man (Trent, blindfolded and barefoot), begins stepping cautiously across an outdoor stage. Before him are a dozen steel animal traps with their jaws wide open. Each is labeled with words like Peer Pressure, Drugs and Alcohol, Sexual Immorality, Rebellion, and Pornography – the “traps” that can easily ensnare teenagers today.

On the opposite end of the platform stands the boy’s father, Tom, anticipating his son’s every move. After two tentative steps, the boy’s third step places him directly in the path of the biggest snare on the stage, a bear trap powerful enough to absolutely crush his leg. It had taken three grown men just to set it.

Before his son can raise another foot, Tom yells into the microphone, “Trent, stop! Don’t take another step!” Circling the traps, he positions himself in between his son and the bear trap. After whispering some instructions, he turns his back to the boy. Trent eagerly places his hands on his father’s shoulders. Then slowly, they begin navigating the trap field together. When the two finally reach the other side and the blindfold is removed, the father and son hug each other.

The applause at this Promise Keepers event swelled to a thunderous standing ovation across the stadium. Above the roar, the host said, “Men, that’s what God has called us to as fathers; to be there and guide our children through the traps of adolescence!”

For Tom and Trent, the trap demonstration was a setup on a stage. But for you and your child, the traps of adolescence are all too real and treacherous. Don’t allow your children to risk the journey on their own. Grab them by the hand, watch your step, and move out together. Let God guide you through.

Live it: What do you not know about the traps in your child’s world? Make plans to find out.

Pray: For God’s ongoing protection over your children and for your ongoing vigilance as their parents.

Join us at The Crossings, Sundays at 10 am.
Meeting at River Heights Intermediate School.
7227 Scholar Way, Eastvale, CA 92880
951-847-6836
http://www.atthecrossings.com
Trusting and Believing with you!

Eastvale: CRIME ALERT BE ON THE LOOKOUT

CrimeAlert2-14 CrimeAlert2-14 2 CrimeAlert2-14 3CRIME ALERT BE ON THE

LOOKOUT
Courtesy City of Eastvale
The Eastvale Police Department is asking for your help in solving an ongoing crime trend within your community. Between November 2013 and January 2014 there have been several incidents involving theft of amplifiers from Cable Company boxes within Eastvale and surrounding areas. These cable boxes are in most neighborhoods.
The thefts are typically occurring between 2:00 AM and 5:00 AM. It is believed the suspects responsible for these thefts may have a professional appearance and may be driving utility trucks. If you observe individuals working on, or removing parts from these cable boxes, or have information which may assist with the investigation, you are asked to contact your local Law Enforcement agency immediately.
Contact Us:
In Progress Crime: 911 Jurupa : (951) 955 – 2661 Eastvale: (951) 955 – 9240 Norco: (951) 270 – 5673
7477 Mission Blvd Jurupa Valley, CA, 92509
CRIME REPORTING TIPS:
• Description or photo of suspect vehicle and license plate
• Description or photo of suspect(s)
• Are the suspect(s) known to the area?
• Direction of travel of suspect(s) after theft

San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

2014 Calendar

STAFF REPORTS

UPCOMING EVENTS:

WALNUT TRAVELS TO SAN ANTONIO WINERY IN LOS ANGELES
When: Tuesday, Feb. 11
Cost: $40 per person
Details: Must be 21 years of age or older. Participants will have a tour of the facility and wine tasting. A delectable lunch will also be prepared from the Winery’s restaurant, Maddalena’ Trattoria
Contact: Walnut Senior Center at (909) 598-6200

A PRELUDE TO SPRING CONCERT: WHS CHOIR
When: Friday, Feb. 13 at 7 p.m.
Where: Walnut High School Performing Arts Center, 400 N. Pierre Road in Walnut.
Tickets: http://www.seatyourself.biz.

FIRST ANNUAL WEST COVINA LANTERN FESTIVAL
When: Feb. 15 and 16 from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Where: Hong Kong Plaza, 935 S. Glendora Ave., West Covina
The City of West Covina is excited to be partnering with Honk Kong Plaza for the City’s Inaugural Lantern Festival. On Saturday, Feb. 15 at 5 p.m. there will be a special lantern lighting ceremony and raffle. The festival will include activities for children, pony rides, music, a petting zoo, a magician, dance performances, raffle prizes, food and exhibitor booths.
Contact: Community Services Department at (626) 939-8430 or visit http://www.westcovina.org.

2014 CHINESE NEW YEAR CONCERT
When: Sunday, Feb. 16 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Mt. San Antonio College Clarke Theater, 1100 N. Grand Ave., Walnut
Cost: Free
Details: The String and Bamboo Orchestra in collaboration with the Chineses America Association of Walnut, is hosting a night of classical Chinese music to celebrate the Year of the Horse and honor the Chinese cultural heritage.
Contact: (909) 581-9377 or go to stringandbamboomusic.com

SAN GABRIEL ORCHID HOBBYISTS MEETING
When: Feb. 20 at 7:30 p.m.
Where: Los Angeles Co. Arboretum, 301 No. Baldwin Avenue, Arcadia Ca 91106
Details: This month’s speaker is Fred Clarke of Sunset Valley Orchids and he will speak at 8 p.m. He will be talking about Cattleyahs. Guests are welcome
Contact: http://www.SGVOH.org

iPAD INTRODUCTION AT DIMOND BAR LIBRARY
When: Saturday, Feb. 22 at 2 p.m.
Where: Diamond Bar Library, 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar
Cost: Free
Details: A special hands-on class for the novice iPad user. Learn from expert Jason Galeener, how to connect to Wi-Fi, use built in applications, take pictures, download apps and general tips and tricks for using your iPad more effectively. Please bring your charged-up iPad and a County of Los Angeles Public Library card.
Contact: http://www.facebook.com/DiamondBarLib or http://www.colapublib.org/calendar/events/index.php?com=detail&eID=50860

WALNUT SENIOR CENTER JUST DESSERTS BAKING CONTEST
When: Thursday, Feb. 27 from 3 p.m. to 5:30 p.m..
Where: Walnut Senior Center, located at 21215 La Puente Rd. in Walnut
Cost: $2 for seniors and $3 for all others per dessert
Details: Contest is open to all ages. Contestants will have the opportunity to enter their best dessert to be judged and receive a prize. Registration forms available at Walnut Senior Center.
Contact: Walnut Senior Center at (909) 598-6200
FUTURE EVENTS:

WALNUT TRIP TO “I LOVE LUCY” – LIVE ON STAGE
When: Saturday, March 22
Where: Orange County Performing Arts Center
Cost: $75 per person
Details: Our motor coach will drop you at South Coast Plaza for lunch on your own, and then whisk you to your show at the Orange County Performing Arts Center.
Contact: Walnut Senior Center at (909) 598-6200

DB BRIDAL SHOW
When: March 23 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Where: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue in Diamond Bar
Contact: (909) 839-7066 or visiting diamondbarca.gov/bridalshow

FREE FIREFIGHTER PREPARATORY SEMINAR
When: Mar. 29 and May 31 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with a one-hour lunch break
Where: Western University, 309 E. 2nd Street, Pomona
Details: Seminar presented by the Los Angeles County Fire Department. This is a one-day overview about what to expect from the hiring process. Registration is required to attend. Register online at fire.lacounty.gov, and bring your confirmation form to the seminar. Seating is limited to those who register.
More info: fire.lacounty.gov

21ST ANNUAL DIAMOND BAR LIBRARY WINE SOIREE
When: Sunday, April 27
Where: Diamond Bar Center, 1600 Grand Avenue in Diamond Bar
Details: Come, bring your friends and neighbors, and join this festive and exciting afternoon with delicious food from local restaurants, great wine from the Jerry Mead New World International Wine Competition, music, and exciting book, silent and live auctions. Advertisements are also available in our beautiful annual program. 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
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 VETERENS, 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 and 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
WALNUT MEETINGS:
City Council Meeting
When: 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month 7 p.m.
Where: Walnut Council Chambers in the new City Hall: 21201 La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789
Planning Commission Meeting
When: 1st Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.
Where: Walnut Council Chambers in the new City Hall: 21201 La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789
Parks & Recreation Commission
When: 3rd Tuesday of each month at 7 p.m.
Where: Walnut Council Chambers in the new City Hall: 21201 La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

Senior Commission Meeting
When: 1st Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m.
Where: Walnut Council Chambers in the new City Hall: 21201 La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

Youth Advisory Commission Meeting
When: 2nd Monday of each month at 5 p.m.
Where: Walnut Council Chambers in the new City Hall: 21201 La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789.

DIAMOND BAR MEETINGS:
City Council Meeting
When: 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month at 6:30 p.m.
Where: Temporary relocation in the City Hall Windmill Community Room: 21810 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar CA 91765.

Planning Commission Meeting
When: 2nd and 4th Tuesdays of every month at 7 p.m.
Where: Diamond Bar City Hall, Windmill Community Room: 21810 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar CA 91765

Diamond Bar Lions Club Breakfast Meeting
When: 1st and 3rd Monday of every month from 7 a.m. to 8 a.m.
Where: Diamond Bar Golf Course: 22751 E. Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar CA 91765.
Contact info: (909) 861-0142.

Toastmaster Club Meeting
When: Every Monday from 12 p.m. to 12:45 p.m.
Where: Caltrans – Office of Bridge Design South 2, Conference Room: 21073 Pathfinder Road Suite 200, Diamond Bar CA 91765
Contact info: (714) 421-3701.

CHINO HILLS MEETINGS:
City Council Meeting
When: 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month at 7 p.m.
Where: Chino Hills City Council Chambers, 14000 City Center Drive, Chino Hills CA 91709

Planning Commission Meeting
When: 1st and 3rd Tuesdays at 7 p.m.
Where: Chino Hills City Council Chambers, 14000 City Center Drive, Chino Hills CA 91709

Public Works Commission
When: 1st Wednesdays of the month
Where: Chino Hills City Council Chambers, 14000 City Center Drive, Chino Hills CA 91709

Parks and Recreation Commission
When: 3rd Wednesdays of the month at 7 p.m.
Where: Chino Hills City Council Chambers, 14000 City Center Drive, Chino Hills CA 91709.

Diamond Bar: Council Corner-Dangerous Parking Area

Diamond Bar City Hall

Diamond Bar City Hall
(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

BY ARIEL CARMONA, JR.

Diamond Bar – At the latest Diamond Bar City Council meeting on Feb. 4, the council heard and adopted a second reading of an ordinance establishing a hotel zoning district on the parcels bounded by Grand Avenue and the 57/60 freeways to allow for future hotel constructions, among other items in a packed agenda. They also heard concerns from a resident regarding a dangerous parking area at Evergreen Elementary School.
The meeting started with the City recognizing the new business of the month, Chase Bank. Representatives from the bank, which is the third branch to open in the city, received a certificate plaque for their contributions. Amidst the features unique to the bank are its drive-up tellers. According to representatives, the bank also ranks as the number one Small Business Administration (SBA) loan lender.
During the public hearing portion of the meeting, the Council was made aware of a recent change to the school traffic plan where parents are no longer allowed to follow the plan in regard to dropping off children on the red zone in front of Evergreen Elementary School at the load and unload zone for buses. Several vehicles have been issued traffic violation tickets in the area.
A narrow area close to kindergarten classrooms and a play yard presents a danger zone around a 10-foot perimeter of the school busses, according to parents who asked the City to fix and expedite the problem. Since the busses are elevated, it would be dangerous for a driver to go into the driveway because he would not see the kids playing in the area. Parents asked for the curb to be painted red for loading and unloading.
City staff representatives called the high traffic area “chaotic,” especially during congested peak drop off and pick up times. They indicated the school district is working to resolve some of the issues and warned that utilizing the red curb zone in front of the school is not legal, but parents have been known to do so. The City has hired a traffic consultant and is working with the school district on the issue.
In other actions, the Council approved the consent calendar by a 5-0 vote, including a ratification of a check register dated Jan. 16 through Jan. 29, totaling more than $831,000, and approving the treasurer’s statement for the month of December 2013. The council also awarded a contract to Onward Engineering for the Morning Canyon Road Rehabilitation Project from Diamond Bar Boulevard to Stonepine Drive.
The council heard a second reading of an ordinance establishing a hotel zoning district on the parcels bounded by Grand Avenue and the 57/60 freeways. Ordinance No. 01 (2014) establishing the hotel overlay zoning district and amending the City’s official zoning map to designate the zone as a hotel overlay was unanimously approved.
At their previous meeting, the Council discussed the merits of possible construction of a hotel at the former Honda Automotive site near the on-ramp of the 56 and 60 freeways. It was deemed then as the best possible use of the land to benefit the City’s goals and objectives.
The Council also adopted a resolution by a 3-2 vote to subdivide air space for a 19-unit office condominium located at 660 N. Diamond Bar. The 2,666 square foot project includes 78 parking spaces, medical offices and common spaces.
The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council is on Feb. 18 at the South Coast Air Quality Management District Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive.

Eastvale: The Seasons of Love

Pastor Mark Lee Vantage Point Church

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point Church in Easvale

BY PASTOR MARK LEE

In the popular 80’s song, “Love Stinks,” the J. Geils Band sings, “And so it goes, ‘til the day you die. This thing they call love, it’s gonna make you cry.” At no time does this seem truer than during the month of February. While the greeting card industry bombards consumers with images of chubby, arrow-wielding babies, many people are left filled with dread at the thought of facing yet another Valentine’s Day.

It has been said that romantic love, much like nature, goes through seasons. If your plans for February 14th include crying into a pint of Häagan Dazs, you are most likely in the midst of a season of winter. Whatever your relationship status may be, love during this particular season can be hard and gloomy. And what do most people do when the months turn cold? They either move to a warmer climate, or they hibernate. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

While winter may appear to be a time of stagnation, it is important to remember that each season serves a purpose. During the cold of winter, the earth is getting ready for the spring. And while it may be hard to see on the surface, beneath the ground the roots are growing deeper and stronger. The same can be said for love. Instead of hibernating, embrace this season of difficulty for what it is: A period of preparation.

Ecclesiastes 3:1 says, “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” If your season of preparation is lasting longer than you had hoped, don’t give up. Spring is right around the corner and the blessings are greater than you could ever imagine!

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

Inland Empire: I Wish You Enough

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

A few months ago one of my friends shared a sweet story on her Facebook feed.  There was something about the story that really stuck with me as the message of it was so poignant in today’s world.  It seems that we so often have so much more than we really need and yet spend so much of our time trying to acquire more.  What we really need is just enough. Too much, and we don’t realize how good we have it; too little, and we find ourselves consumed with the struggle to keep our heads above water.

This little story called, “I Wish You Enough” (author unknown), has been rewritten countless times.  Sometimes it’s between a mother and son, or a father and daughter, but the message is still the same. The story is paraphrased below.

A mother and a daughter were hugging goodbye at an airport and the mother told the daughter, “I wish you enough.”  The daughter smiled and wished her mother the same. Once her mother had boarded the plane, the stranger that had been observing asked the daughter why she had told her mother that particular wish. What did, “I wish you enough,” actually mean? The daughter explained that they wanted the other person to have a life filled with just enough good things to sustain them. The daughter then looked at the stranger and said, “I wish you enough sun to keep your attitude bright. I wish you enough rain to appreciate the sun more. I wish you enough happiness to keep your spirit alive. I wish you enough pain so that the smallest joys in life appear much bigger. I wish you enough loss to appreciate all you possess, and I wish you enough hellos to prepare you for the final goodbye.”

As both a parent and a child who has lost her mother, I found the message of this story very touching. While all of us want the best for our children, we sometimes give them too much and they can miss the meaning of the “struggle”. Often the best kids come from parents that taught them to be content with “enough” instead of constantly desiring more. This short story reaffirmed my desire to try and teach my boys to be satisfied with enough, and made me appreciate all the “hellos” I shared with my mother before she said her final goodbye.  I hope that this story can serve as a gentle reminder to be happy with what you have and that this year brings you all, “enough”.

EASTVALE : Suspect Leads Police on Chase Through Eastvale

BY: JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – The streets of Eastvale were alive with the sound of a helicopter and sirens early this morning. Residents reported hearing sirens and a helicopter circling the Citrus Ave. area around 3am.
According to one Eastvale resident who lives near Citrus /Sumner, “ a black vehicle crashed into a car in my neighbor’s driveway . Then the person inside the vehicle ran out of the vehicle towards their backyard and jumped over the fence to the trail/park area behind”.
As posted to our Eastvale Community News Facebook Page by a resident who lives on Morning Mist near Citrus/ Sumner, “ When I woke up this morning at 4, I heard the helicopter so I peeked out my window and saw about 8 police vehicles, an ambulance and a fire truck. They were here until about 5:30am when they were towing a vehicle from my neighbor’s driveway”.
Another resident posted to our Facebook, that she too was awakened by the incident, “ Two officers were banging on our door this morning. They had a police dog and wanted to search our backyard for a suspect. The helicopter was flying overhead”.
A suspect was in custody, according to the Riverside Sheriff’s Department, as of 8:30am this morning. This is an on-going investigation and more information, such as what charges will be filed, and if there are any more suspects, will be released later.

Eastvale: Medical Plaza Making Big Progress

an Antonio Community Hospital

Mark Bertone, left, Chairman of San Antonio Community Hospital’s Board of Trustees, Jason Cooke, Strategic Medical Properties, meets at the medical center site with Pat Timmins, Project Superintendent, Lusardi Construction, Harris F. Koenig, and Bryce Stafford, Strategic Medical Properties. (Photo courtesy of Barbara Isenhart)

EASTVALE SAN ANTONIO MEDICAL PLAZA

Eastvale – San Antonio Community Hospital’s medical plaza project in Eastvale has been progressing nicely. Several construction milestones have been reached, including the tilt-up of the walls that took place on February 5. With this type of construction, the walls are formed adjacent to the foundation and a large crane lifts them into place one at a time. Precision is required to ensure that the walls are erected in just the right order, much like a puzzle. Intensive planning was required before the first wall was lifted into place and secured.

Eastvale Mayor Ike Bootsman was on hand to witness this major milestone, as was Harris Koenig, President and Chief Executive Officer of SACH, and Mark Bertone, Chairman of the hospital’s Board of Trustees.

Eastvale San Antonio Medical Plaza will be located in Lewis Retail Center’s Eastvale Gateway South Shopping Center, on Limonite Avenue, just west of Interstate 15. The location allows the hospital to expand its healthcare services to meet the needs of residents in Eastvale, south Ontario, Norco, and surrounding communities. Eastvale San Antonio Medical Plaza is anticipated to open in late 2014.

Norco: Louis Vandermolen Passes Away

STAFF REPORTS

A well-known man throughout Eastvale, Norco, and Corona passed away last month.

louis vandermolen picLouis VanderMolen, passed away peacefully in his home on Thursday, Jan. 9, in the company of his wife, Ada, and his daughter, Ann.  Born in Bergum, the Netherlands, on October 8, 1917, Louis and Ada immigrated to Artesia, California with two small children, John and Johanna, in 1951 and moved to Corona in 1953 where Louis worked in the dairy business, as a cabinet maker and in general construction.

Vandermolen was a large part of the history of Norco and Eastvale. In 1966, he opened his first hardware store on Hamner Avenue in Norco, and later moved that hardware store to the new VanderMolen Center across the street. Vandermolen and his wife Ada, operated VanderMolen Hardware until 1986, when they retired. They enjoyed traveling in their motor home with friends and family.

According to his obituary from Thomas Miller Mortuary in Corona, Vandermolen had  a strong love and dedication to community efforts. He was active in the Norco Chamber of Commerce, where he served as president, was instrumental in raising funds for the building of the current YMCA site in Corona, and also was a life-member of the Norco Kiwanis Club, where he also served as president. He donated time to being a Deacon and Trustee of the First Congregational Church of Corona and was recognized by the Inland Empire Boy Scouts of America as the 1983 Distinguished Citizen. For more than 17 years, Louis was a member of the Governing Board for the Corona-Norco Unified School District; Corona’s Centennial High School’s vocational building is named in Louis’ honor. He was extremely proud and honored to have the Louis VanderMolen Fundamental Elementary School, located in Eastvale, named after him.

Louis is survived by his wife Ada; by four of his five children, John (Leslie), Johanna (Robert), Louis Jr., Ann, and by his grandchildren Eric, Kristin, Amber, Gary, Christopher, Kaitlin, Matthew, and Nicholas.  A memorial service was held on Wednesday, Jan. 15, at the First Congregational Church, 809 S. Ramona Ave., Corona.

Inland Empire: Create A Valentine’s Day To Remember

BY NICOLE GILLES, RD, CDE, CSR

Have you ever wondered what would really make your Valentine happy?  You’ve tried the chaotic restaurant scene in the past, only to leave feeling uncomfortably full, tired, and stressed from the overcrowded restaurant and crazy parking lot.

This Valentine’s Day, show how much you care through actions instead of food.  Skip the busy restaurant and store-bought chocolates.  Instead, schedule some quality time with those you love.  After all, it’s the time we spend together that creates memories, not high fat food and chocolates.  If your loved one is feeling stressed, make time to snuggle up on the couch with their favorite movie.  Or give them a back massage to relieve stress and aching muscles.

Maybe your Valentine would like a meal prepared for them.  Consider making a romantic dinner for two at home with candles and flowers.  Preparing meals at home empowers you to choose healthier foods and smaller portions.  When you make the effort, your Valentine will feel the love in their heart and not on their hips.  After all, food only lasts a second on the lips, but years on the hips.

Has your child already requested Valentine cards to pass out at school?  If so, think about pairing the cards with healthier food options like pretzels instead of candy, or even non-food options like stickers or small toys.  Providing non-food options will subtly show the next generation how we can celebrate without depending on food.  Food should be used to fuel our bodies to keep them healthy and strong, as opposed to making emotional connections to temporarily improve our moods while permanently affecting our health.

The more you separate food from emotions, the happier and healthier you and your family will be.  So give the gift of true love this Valentine’s Day and show your emotions through your actions instead of unhealthy food.

If you would like to slim down this spring, look no further than local Eastvale resident, Nicole Gilles.  Nicole is the owner of Happy and Healthy Nutrition and she is dedicated to helping you achieve your health and weight goals.  As a Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Expert, and Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, Nicole is qualified to help you learn how to cope with emotional eating and learn to eat for your body’s individual needs.  Happy and Healthy Nutrition members discover when to eat, how to eat, and how to lose weight and keep it off permanently.  Start today, for a happy and healthy tomorrow! 

 Contact Happy and Healthy Nutrition at (909) 816-0977, or www.HandHnutrition.com; and like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/happyandhealthynutrition.nicolegilles.  And see their ad on page XX for a special discount.

Eastvale: Crime Recap

STAFF REPORTS

The following crime incidents have been reported by the Riverside County Sheriff Department and by residents on our Eastvale News Facebook page (www.facebook.com/Eastvale CommunityNews). One of the ways our Facebook page is used is by informing the community about crimes happening in the City, so we can work together to report suspicious activity to the Sheriff’s Department in order to keep crime low. Here is a recap of the local crime last month:

On Jan. 7, a City of Eastvale resident reported that someone went through their side gate to their back yard twice in one week, resulting in their dogs being let loose and a mountain bike stolen from their backyard. Another Eastvale resident suggested that they should always lock their gate to make it more difficult for burglars to come in, since this has happened several times before in Eastvale.

On Jan. 11, at 4:04 p.m., deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station responded to a burglary in progress in the 5800 block of Hamner Avenue, in the City of Eastvale. Deputies arrived within minutes and located a male subject inside of a residence, who appeared to be gathering several pieces of property from inside the residence.  Deputies made several announcements for the subject to exit the residence, but he refused.  A short while later, the male subject exited the residence and attempted to flee the location.  After a brief foot pursuit, the subject was apprehended while attempting to hide in the carport of a nearby residence. The suspect, Adam Barefield, 19, a transient from Eastvale, was arrested for burglary and resisting an officer as well as for an outstanding felony warrant for burglary and was later booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center.

On Jan. 13, at around 9:30 p.m., an Eastvale resident reported on our Facebook page that there were sirens in Eastvale and asked what happened. Our Social Media Department answered that there were two responses near Schleisman Avenue and Archibald Avenue. One response was for medical aid for a teenager and the other was for a report of someone who hurt themselves. We reported there was no danger to the community.

Also on Jan. 13, deputies responded to the 4000 block of Sundance Lane in the city of Norco regarding a theft of a UPS package from the residence’s front porch. The victim captured video of the theft on a home surveillance system. Deputies assigned to the city of Norco Community Oriented Police and Problem Solving (COPPS) Team conducted an investigation which resulted in identifying the suspect in the video. On Friday, Jan. 17, at 4 a.m., a search warrant was executed in the 10000 block of Gramercy Place, in the City of Riverside. As a result of the search warrant, evidence related to the theft was recovered. The suspect was identified as Angela Maria Desiderato, 31, of Riverside, who was arrested for possession of stolen property related felony arrest warrant and booked into jail at the Robert Presley Detention Center.

crime recap pic1On Jan. 14, at 6:25 p.m., a search warrant was served by officers assigned to the city of Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team after new information was obtained regarding an investigation for illegal residential marijuana grow operations in the City of Eastvale. During the service of this search warrant, two subjects were detained inside the residence. Officers discovered the residence had been modified for the sole purpose of cultivating, processing and packaging marijuana for sales.  Officers seized 398 marijuana plants, five pounds of processed marijuana and packaging material.  Additionally, electricity was being bypassed around the meter, causing a serious fire hazard and resulting in approximately $6000 a month in stolen electricity. The suspects were identified as John Tran, 27, of Los Angeles, and Vinh Tran, 26, of San Gabriel. Both were arrested for conspiracy, cultivation and possession of marijuana for sales, and grand theft of utilities and booked in jail at the Robert Presley Detention Center.

On Jan. 23, deputies assigned to the Eastvale Special Enforcement Team, assisted by the Riverside County Gang Taskforce and Probation Department, conducted a probation compliance sweep on persons residing within the city of Eastvale.  During this operation, compliance checks were conducted at 30 residences, resulting in three felony arrests. During this operation, deputies seized narcotics and narcotic paraphernalia. Cynthia Gomez, 23, of Eastvale, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and violation of probation. Anthony Rodriguez, 32, of Eastvale, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and violation of probation. Ashly Hawkins, 20, of Eastvale, was arrested for possession of heroin, under the influence of a controlled substance, and violation of probation. All three subjects were booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center.

On Jan. 25 at Hamner Avenue and Alhambra Street between 8 p.m. and 2 a.m., the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department / Jurupa Valley Station / Norco Office conducted a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint. While conducting a sobriety checkpoint, a driver identified as Jon Thomas, advised he had a suspended license.  Upon conducting a records check of his vehicle, it returned stolen out of the City of Corona on Jan. 22.  As a result of this investigation, Thomas was arrested for an outstanding felony warrant, driving on a suspended license, possession of a stolen car, possession of drug paraphernalia, being under the influence of a controlled substance, and driving under the influence of a controlled substance.

In addition to the arrest, 517 vehicles screened out of the 571 vehicles that went through the checkpoint, four DUI-Alcohol suspects were arrested, one DUI-Drug impaired suspect was arrested, one suspect was arrested for illegal drugs (possession/transportation/sales), two drivers were cited/arrested for operating a vehicle unlicensed or while suspended/revoked, three citations were issued and one person was arrested on other Criminal Charges. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department / Jurupa Valley Station / Norco Office will be conducting another DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint on Saturday, February 15, 2014 from 8 p.m. to 3 a.m. in their ongoing commitment to lowering deaths and injuries upon our streets and highways.

On Jan. 30  in the 12800 block of Thornbury Lane, Eastvale at 9:30 a.m., the Eastvale Special Enforcement Team served a search warrant after previous investigation. During the search, Lou Zhong Wu, a suspect, was detained inside the residence. The residence had been modified for the purposes of cultivating, processing and packaging marijuana for sales. 1170 marijuana plants, 26 pounds of processed marijuana and packaging materials were seized. Electricity was bypassed around the meter, causing a serious fire hazard and resulting in $8700 a month in stolen electricity. The suspect was arrested and booked.

Anyone with information regarding any of these incidents is asked to contact the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600.

“Heart and Sole” Will Provide Shoes And More To Students In Need

Rowland Unified School District

La Puente – In honor of Valentine’s Day, on Wednesday, February 12, from 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m., 125 children from across the Rowland Unified School District (RUSD) will receive socks and shoes at the third annual “Heart and Sole” event.
The Kiwanis Clubs of Hacienda Heights/La Puente – Industry Shoes That Fit programs, Ashika Shoes, UPS Commerce, Rowland Heights Senior Pathfinders, along with the RUSD’s Family Resource Center, will join together to put smiles – and shoes – on children in need. School community liaisons preselected students from schools in the communities of La Puente, West Covina, and Rowland Heights. When students arrive at the Family Resource Center, they will receive a new pair of shoes, socks, a book, and a bag of lentils.
The Family Resource Center is located in the parking lot of Northam Elementary School, at 17800 E. Renault Street in La Puente, CA 91744.
For more information about the “Heart and Sole” event, please contact: Dave Malkin, Kiwanis Club of Hacienda Heights at (626)833-3444 or Katherine Rodriguez/Monica Olmos at the RUSD Family Resource Center at (626)854-2228.
The Rowland Unified School District is proud to serve 16,000 students at 20 elementary and secondary schools in the communities of Rowland Heights, Walnut, La Puente, City of Industry, and West Covina. More than 5,000 adults (16+) are also served by the Rowland Adult and Community Education School. For more information about Rowland Unified, call (626) 965-2541 or visit http://www.RowlandSchools.org.

Chino Hills: Chino Hills Happenings

STAFF REPORTS

Chino Hills Community Center

Check out the New Chino Hills
Community Center at 142501 Peyton Drive
(Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

Chino Hills – The much anticipated Chino Hills Community Center held its Grand Opening,  on Saturday, Feb. 8, 2014.  The dedication began at 10 a.m. with a Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and special unveiling of the Donor Bricks in the courtyard.  Attendees enjoyed live music, art exhibits, class demonstrations, information booths, delicious desserts, and much more.  Tours of the new 17,000 square foot facility and adjacent park up were available until 2 p.m. on Saturday.

If you miss the Grand Opening, be sure and stop by 14250 Peyton Drive, in Chino Hills, to check out the new building and all the wonderful programs that are offered.  Amenities in the new facility include a fitness/dance room, exercise room, game room, conference rooms, banquet hall, courtyard, and outdoor gazebo (perfect for a wedding destination).  The Community Center is located next to the McCoy Equestrian and Recreation Center, which brings even more possibilities for community events to mind. For more information, call (909) 364-2700.

For those that like to enjoy the recreational activities that all the trails in Chino Hills provide, please be advised that the Hickory Creek Park and Nature Trail will be closed for maintenance from Feb. 5 to Feb. 14, 2014.  The park closure will start at Rolling Ridge Drive and continue east to Pipeline Avenue.  The park and nature trail will be closed weekdays from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. and on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  The maintenance will allow crews to clear the creek of heavy vegetation and prepare the site for upcoming construction including stabilization of the banks, streambed enhancements, and additional landscaping with native trees, groundcover, and shrubs.

Park and trail access points will be blocked at Rolling Ridge Drive, Willow Lane, and Pipeline Avenue.  All access is prohibited during the posted hours in order to allow crews and equipment to work safely.  If you need additional information, call (909) 364-2722.

Eastvale: Did You Know….

BY STAFF REPORTS

Eastvale – Did you know that City Municipal Code Sec. 8.12.020 says that it is unlawful for any minor (any person under 18 years old) to be present in any public place or on the premises of any establishment within the city during curfew hours, which is 10 p.m. until 6 a.m. the following day.

According to the Code, it is also unlawful for any parent or guardian of a minor to knowingly permit, or by insufficient control to allow, the minor to be present in any public place or on the premises of any establishment within the city during curfew hours.

Some exceptions would include: if the minor was accompanied by the minor’s parent, guardian or responsible adult; on an errand at the direction of the minor’s parent, guardian or responsible adult, without any detour or stop; engaged in, going to or returning home from an employment activity without any detour or stop; on the sidewalk abutting the minor’s residence; engaged in, going to or returning home from an official school, religious, or other recreational activity supervised by adults, sponsored by the city, a civic organization or another similar entity that takes responsibility for the minor, or involved in an emergency, to name a few.

For more information about a minor’s curfew, including additional exceptions and enforcement, please visit the Municipal Code page on the City’s website: www.eastvaleca.gov/index.aspx?page=170