Straight Talk With Danice

DEAR DR. AKIYOSHI,

I have been suffering with terrible menopausal symptoms. I do not want to take synthetic hormones because I heard there is an increased risk for breast cancer. Breast cancer and thyroid cancer run in my family. My quality of life is terrible and all of my relationships are suffering. You once recommended some natural remedy for hot flashes and I lost that paper. Will you please mention it again?
Thank you
Sandra. H.

Dear Sandra,
The herbal remedy I recommend for hot flashes is called ‘Fem Drops.’ Or ‘Fem Drops plus’ if you are irritable or struggle with fluid retention. Female ‘Plus’ will help you relax, so take it at night. You can order it from Dr. Richard Schulze’s website at http://www.herbdoc.com.

I would also recommend that you gather information about bio identical hormone replacement. This is quite different from synthetic hormone replacement. Maybe you would consider reading the book by Suzanne Somers called “Ageless.” It is full of valuable information that will help you realize that you are not alone in your suffering. Doing an online search will direct you to many great sources of information as well. Another doctor I’m impressed with is Christiane Northrup. Her books have been helpful to many of my patients.
I wish you the best of luck. I hope you will be feeling better soon.
Danice Akiyoshi ND

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She has a great passion for alternative healing and has over 20 years of experience in this field. She provides a form of energy psychology called The Emotion Code, where she helps people literally get rid of their emotional baggage. She also offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

New Riverside County Sheriff Captain

Sheriff Stan Sniff and Captain Michael Lind of Riverside County Sheriff Dept

Sheriff Stan Sniff and Captain Michael Lind (Photo Courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff Department)

RIVERSIDE COUNTY SHERIFF DEPT.

Riverside County – Sheriff Stan Sniff promoted Lieutenant Michael Lind to the rank of Captain on Jan. 13, 2014. Captain Lind will begin his new assignment Feb. 6, as the Commander of the Sheriff’s Communication Center. He is replacing Captain Dean Wright who is retiring this month.
Captain Lind has over 26 years of full-time law enforcement experience, all with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department. Captain Lind began his career in 1987. After completing the Basic Peace Officer Academy, he was assigned to the Corrections Division as a Deputy Sheriff working at the Riverside County Sheriff’s Jail in Indio. In 1990, he transferred to the Banning Sheriff’s Station where he served in the patrol division and as a Field Training Officer.
In 1994, Captain Lind was promoted to the rank of Investigator, and transferred to the Moreno Valley Police Department where he worked auto theft, child abuse, sex crimes, and homicide investigations. In 2001, he was promoted to the rank of Senior Investigator.
In 2002, Captain Lind was promoted to the rank of Sergeant and transferred to the Banning Sheriff’s Station where he worked as a patrol sergeant and served as the sergeant for the Department’s K9 Team.
In 2007, Captain Lind was promoted to the rank of Lieutenant and was assigned to the Robert Presley Detention Center, where he worked Floor Operations, the Classification Unit, and Administration.
In March 2010, Captain Lind was transferred to the Perris Station, where he managed both Patrol and Administration Divisions. In September 2011, he was transferred to Dispatch, where he managed Fleet Operations, the Telephone Reporting Unit, and several large construction projects.
Captain Lind has a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice from Cal Baptist University, in Riverside. He and his wife, Karen, reside in Cherry Valley, where they have raised two daughters.

A Decade Behind Us

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

January marks the beginning of a new year and a new month, a chance to start over anew. In our home, January is a month full of birthdays with the most important one belonging to the youngest boy, Nicholas. This year, my son Nicholas will reach another milestone; he will finally belong to the “two-hands” club and turn 10! I remember my grandpa joking with me when I turned ten and telling me that I was part of an exclusive club of “two handers” and that this was the first and last year that I would ever be able to count my age on just two hands. Back then, that seemed like a pretty awesome club to be a part of and it’s a little surreal that my youngest child is now ten and on his way to his next decade.
But turning 10 for Nicholas is just a little bit more special to me because the road we have traveled has been such a tumultuous one. If you read this column regularly you know I speak about my boys often and that my youngest Nicholas, is deaf and autistic, visually impaired, low tone Cerebral Palsy, etc. etc. but that this boy has the spirit of an angel and the tenacity of a lion. There is truly nothing that I would say he can’t do. He may not be able to do it now, but he always manages to figure things out and surprise us all with just how dang smart he is.
This first decade of his life, we spent so much time getting him to sit up, crawl, walk, eat on his own, wear his glasses, wear his hearing aides, cochlear implant surgery, physical and occupational therapy, potty training, writing and so on and so on. We just wanted to give him the best shot we could to be as “normal” as possible. What I never expected was that not only would he far surpass all those basic goals but that he would also learn to read, write, add and subtract and basically rock at school. Further, this year I experienced with Nicholas the absolute best gift any mother could receive, Nicholas said “mom” for the very first time. That small little “deaf” voice clearly and slowly watching my lips form the word and along with me, clear as day, say “MOM”. As always, my son remains my biggest inspiration and deepest source of strength. Anytime I feel that I can’t do something, I remember all the doctors that shook their heads and told me to give up and to not expect much from Nicholas, and then I get back up, shake myself off and get back to being awesome…because Nicholas and I still have a lot of people to keep proving wrong.

Detectives Seeking Help in Identifying Three Suspects

Staff Reports

Rowland Heights – The LA County Sheriff’s Department sent out a news release stating that the Sheriff’s Parks Bureau detectives are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying three suspects in connection with numerous vehicle burglaries that occurred between Nov. 16, 2013 and Dec. 31, 2013 at Peter F. Shabarum Regional Park, located at 17250 East Colima Road, Rowland Heights.

The suspects burglarized the victims’ vehicles by smashing a window and grabbing any purse left inside the vehicle, according to the Sheriff’s Department. The suspects then immediately used the victims’ credit cards to purchase gift cards and other merchandise from local business stores.

The suspects are described as two male Hispanic adults and one female Hispanic adult. The suspects’ pictures were obtained from video surveillance at stores where the suspects used the stolen credit cards, including various Target stores in the area.

Anyone with information regarding these incidents or the whereabouts of these suspects are encouraged to contact Detective Jack Prentice, Parks Bureau, at (661) 294-3544 or (310) 749-5821.

Photo courtesy: LA County Sheriff’s Department
rowland heights 3

rowland heights1

rowland heights 2

Eastvale: Chamber Of Commerce Events and Plans

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO
EASTVALE CHAMBER
SECRETARY

Recently, I met a resident who invited me to a movie at a Chino Hills theatre. I asked why go over there and not here in the city. They said: “The popcorn over there is better.”
At first I thought it was kind of strange, but then I remembered why I go to get ice cream in Eastvale instead of Chino by my work. It’s the ice cream cones. In Chino they crumble easier, so I wait until I come into the city where they don’t crumble easily in my hand.
What’s interesting to me is that at times, we don’t realize what makes our company better, even the little things like popcorn and ice cream cones. These items aren’t supposed to be the draw to a movie or the reason you eat a certain brand of ice cream, they are the little things. But the little things can mean big money if people decide not to use your services for a minor detail. Those pennies we save in the short run could be costing us thousands in the long run. My advice? Don’t skimp. Take pride and provide quality throughout. People will recognize this and word will spread.
In the month of January, we had TWO events: First, we had “Good Morning Eastvale” on Thurs. Jan. 9, from 7 – 8:30 a.m. at Corky’s Kitchen and Bakery. $15 for Members/ $20 for Non-Members. How else are you going to make more money and gain a stronger business presence? Let your Chamber membership work for you!
Next: After Hours Mixer, Tues. Jan. 16 from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. at Definitions Salon & Spa, 2395 Hamner Avenue, Norco, (Hamner/3rd street), $5 for Members and Non Members.
Finally we are happy to announce a few events we are planning for the upcoming year: Our Chamber Board Installation Dinner will be in early February and we are searching venues now. We are planning our Farmers Market with the help of our Mayor Ike Bootsma and Bill Van Leeuwen scheduled for late March; The Mayor’s State of the City in April, and our MEGA MIXER in May. We’ll be announcing specific dates in February.
The Chamber is looking for Ambassadors and Chamber Board members. If interested, please contact the Chamber at 951.768.6000.
It’s an exciting time for us at the Chamber with so many exciting changes on the horizon. Remember to attend mixers and events to get your name out there and to get your business marketed. And for more information, please sign onto: http://www.eastvalechamberofcommerce.org and http://www.facebook.com/eastvalechamberofcommerce.

Eastvale: A Fresh Start

Pastor Robert Jewett Word of Truth Community ChurchBY PASTOR ROBERT JEWETT

With the New Year now underway, many people have made New Year’s Resolutions. Each has desired a fresh start in various areas of life. Many make a new resolution to get in shape after over indulging from Thanksgiving through New Year’s. Some have made a commitment to better manage their finances after over spending at Christmas. Yet others may go to a much deeper level and decide it is time for a fresh start with God.
Is there even such a thing as a fresh start with God? If so, how does one pursue it? The good news is that a fresh start is possible. Paul the apostle shared with everyone who would listen that “they should repent and turn to God, performing deeds in keeping with their repentance” (Acts 26:20b).
A fresh start with God is possible when you actively choose to turn from your sinful ways and begin walking obediently to God’s ways. At the time of genuine repentance, God gives you his Holy Spirit to empower you (Acts 5:32, Phil. 2:13).
Thus, he will take you from start to finish! May today be your fresh start!
For more information, visit Word of Truth Community Church online at http://www.wordoftruthcc.com.

Diamond Bar Woman’s Club Update

NEWS RELEASE

Diamond Bar – The Diamond Bar Woman’s Club’s Roaring 20s Casino Night will be an exciting evening on Friday, Feb. 7, from 6:30 p.m. to 11 p.m. at the Diamond Bar Golf Course, 22751 Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar.
Chairs Paula Dryburgh, Debbie Avila Mott, and Rachel Myer suggest you purchase your tickets early so you won’t miss this fun and festive evening. Tickets are $50 per person, which includes a delicious dinner, $50 worth of gaming chips and one drink ticket. You are encouraged to come in 20s dress and enjoy the fun with all proceeds to benefit the Club’s many philanthropic efforts. For tickets or information, please call Debbie Avila-Mott at (909) 860-1063.
The Diamond Bar Woman’s Club sponsors many local and regional charities, such as scholarships for local students, The House of Ruth, Shoes That Fit and many more.
The Diamond Bar Woman’s Club meets on the third Wednesday of each month at the Diamond Bar Golf Course, located at 22751 E. Golden Springs Drive in Diamond Bar. The next meeting will be on Wednesday, Jan. 15 starting at 10 a.m. and featuring a celebration of the 50th anniversary of the Diamond Bar Woman’s Club. The meetings are always a great opportunity for fellowship and informative topics. For a luncheon reservation, please call Sharron Tanzer at (909) 861-3138.
New members are encouraged to join this very active group. The Diamond Bar Woman’s Club organized in 1963 and is one of the longest-running service organizations in the San Gabriel Valley. For information on any of our programs, please call President, Rosette Clippinger, at (909) 525-8828.

RUSD District Climate Survey and Common Core Meeting

RUSD

Rowland Heights – The Rowland Unified School District announced it will launch its District Climate Survey once again, where the community can provide valuable feedback on programs and services the District provides. This recurring survey provides data responses that assist during planning and review of District operations and educational services. The District also announced that it will hold information meetings this month for parents to learn more about the Common Core State Standards, how it will impact their child, and will share the implementation efforts made in RUSD.
To participate in the online survey (also available in Chinese, Korean and Spanish), the community can visit the “Your Voice” section of the District website (www.RowlandSchools.org) and on every school website. It is also located on the free Rowland Unified School District “Mobile App” available for iOS and Android phones/devices. The District Climate Survey is available now through Jan. 30. Individuals who do not have access to computers may visit any RUSD school to take the survey online, or visit the District Office located at 1830 S. Nogales Street in Rowland Heights. The district phone number is (626) 965-2541. The results from the survey will be shared with the community in the “Your Voice” section on the District website in the Spring.
Parents and interested community members are also invited to attend an informational meeting about the Common Core State Standards that will be implemented next year. The next meeting date is Wednesday, Jan. 22 at Giano Intermediate in the Multipurpose Room (located at 3223 S. Giano Avenue, West Covina 91792). For additional resources and information about the Common Core, a Parent Common Core Toolbox with videos and handouts is located on each RUSD school website or at http://www.RowlandSchools.org.
The Rowland Unified School District is proud to serve 16,000 students in the communities of Rowland Heights, Walnut, La Puente, City of Industry, and West Covina at our award-winning schools. More than 5,000 adults (16+) are also served by the Rowland Adult and Community Education School. For more information about Rowland Unified, the community can download the free Mobile App for iOS and Android phones/devices that has news, school calendars, a safety Tip Line, high school sports news for Nogales and Rowland High Schools, and helpful parent and District resources. Visit http://www.RowlandSchools.org or call (626) 965-2541.

Diamond Bar: Trial Date Set for Former Lorbeer Teacher

Steven Andrews

Steven Andrews (Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

STAFF REPORTS

Diamond Bar – Former Lorbeer Middle School teacher, Steven Andrews, appeared in court this week for a pre-trial hearing. The trial has been delayed several times and will not likely get underway until next month.
Andrews surrendered to Police back in September 2011, admitting he committed lewd acts on a 14-year-old student. Andrews is facing 17 charges, including six counts of sexual penetration with a foreign object, six counts of unlawful sexual intercourse with a child, two counts of oral copulation with a child under 16, and three counts of lewd acts on a child.
Steven Andrews is set to return to court Jan. 28 for a defense motion. The trial date is tentatively set for Feb. 10, according to the Pomona Superior Court.

Eastvale: City Begins Weekend Code Enforcement

WEEKEND CODE ENFORCEMENT TO BEGIN
yardsalemediumtrashcans
Courtesy: City of Eastvale – Effective this weekend, January 25, 2014 Eastvale Code Enforcement Officers will be actively patrolling the City of Eastvale and addressing weekend code violations.
Due to budget constraints, the City has not traditionally had Code Enforcement coverage on the weekends. The new implementation of Code Enforcement coverage on the weekends will be a pilot program to determine the volume of weekend code violations and evaluate the overall impact on Code Enforcement services city-wide.
Code Enforcement officers will be paying close attention to the most common code violations such as:
Property maintenance (Municipal Code Chapter 8.18 – Administrative Nuisance Abatement)
Trash/recycling receptacles storage (Sec. 120.05.080 – Neighborhood Preservation Standards)
Parking of Recreational Vehicles and Boats (Sec. 120.05.080 – Neighborhood Preservation Standards)
Temporary Signs (Sec, 120.05.070 – Signs – Amended by Ordinance 2013-17)
Temporary Signs in the Public Right of Way is defined as any sign, including commercial, non-commercial or political sign displayed for a limited period of time.
Temporary signs may be placed in the public right of way during the period beginning 4 p.m. Friday and ending 7 p.m. Sunday. Signs in place outside this period will be subject to removal.
Temporary Sign Size, Materials, and Maintenance Criteria. All temporary signs placed in the right of way must:
a) Be free-standing and securely mounted on a wooden or metal stakes;
b) Be no higher than four (4) feet above grade;
c) Be no larger than six (6) square feet and no more than three (3) feet in either height or width;
d) Be constructed of substantial sturdy, durable and weather-proof material;
e) Be kept in good repair;
f) Be non-illuminated;
g) Include the contact name and phone number of the person responsible for the sign in a clearly legible manner, either on the front or back of the sign; and
h) Be located in a permitted location as defined in this Section 5.E. 3.
Sign Location. Temporary signs in the public right of way must be located at least 20 feet from the curved portion of the corner in order to maintain visibility for motorists, as shown in the illustration. In addition, the following apply:
a) Signs must be located at least two feet from the edge of a curb or sidewalk, or from the edge of the pavement if there is no curb or sidewalk.
b) Signs shall be installed so as not to damage plant materials, irrigation equipment or other public property.
c) Signs may not be placed on a sidewalk.
d) Signs may not be placed in a roadway median.
e) Signs may not be attached to utility poles, sign posts, fences, walls, or any other structure.
Permitted Locations for Temporary
Signs in the Public Right of Way
Code Violations may be reported to the Eastvale Code Enforcement Department at (951) 361-2888 or Code_Complaint@eastvaleca.gov. For general information about the City of Eastvale Municipal Code, please visit the City’s Municipal Code library at http://library.municode.com/index.aspx?clientId=15015.

Eastvale: Tips For Spotting “Pot Houses”

PROVIDED BY LEAFF

Eastvale – With yet another successful take down by the Eastvale Police of a marijuana grow house last month, we wanted to take the time to remind the community of some potential warning signs of a pot houses. As a community, we need to continue to work together to report suspicious activity to our Police Department at 951-776-1099 so we can continue to drive these houses and illegal activity out of Eastvale.
Below are some tips for spotting a marijuana grow house:
1. Windows are often covered from the inside of the residence.
2. Commercial-grade air conditioners and electrical equipment may be seen being moved or installed.
3. Individuals other than uniformed utility workers may be accessing the electrical vaults near the street.
4. Lights and televisions are set on timers, turning on and off and at the same times daily.
5. Individuals may arrive and leave within a few hours on a regular basis, and may pull directly into the garage and immediately shut the door.
6. There may be a constant humming sound.

Collegewood Robotics Team Wins 2nd Place at Regional Tourney

Collegewood Robomaster Cougars Robotic Team

Collegewood Robomasters Cougars 4-1, shown with team coaches, were recognized for their impressive 2nd Place award during the school’s Spirit Day assembly on January 10. Each member received a trophy. (Photo Courtesy:Kelli Gile)

BY KELLI GILE

Walnut—Collegewood Elementary School’s new robotics team won 2nd Place for their project presentation during the Los Angeles Region First Lego League (FLL) Championship Tournament held on Dec. 14, 2013.
The Robomasters Cougars 4-1 Team is comprised of ten 4th graders: Nathan Fong, Nafiz Islam, Madrid Nevarez, Evan Walker, Sarah Wang, Emmy Hsu, Collin Lee, Codey Ma, Kaden Salvador, and Kawin Watkins.
They were considered one of the youngest teams in the tournament, which included 4th to 8th grade student teams.
Kawin Watkins said his favorite part was “is learning to build and program the robots.”
“I started the project presentation and ended it,” said Evan Walker, age 9. “It’s fun being a part of the club and I will definitely be part of it next year,” he added.
“The best part was programming the robot,” said Sarah Walker. FLL is dubbed a sport for the mind.
“It went really good and it was fun,” added Madrid Nevarez. She said competing with the robot was the most exciting part and she won her match.
Kaden Salvador said he was impressed with his teammates at the regional contest.
“During the competition all the kids really focused and we won!” he said.
They advanced to the Championship Tournament and completed with another 48 teams from different schools throughout Los Angeles County at South High School in Torrance.
“Our little kids tried their best and had great fun working as a team with gracious professionalism to apply science and technology into real world problems,” said team coach and parent Scott Watkins.
The team researched Wildfire Disasters and presented their idea of a Firefighting Robot to the judges.
They also competed among 48 teams in the Robot Game by building and programming their robot using NXT Mindstorms kits to complete different missions.
The Robomasters Cougars 4-1 took the 7th Place award in the robot performance contest.
“They were also one of the most consistent teams, scoring over 300 points in every round,” Watkins said.
“The children had a successful season, taking full advantage of the great opportunity that has been provided at Collegewood Elementary,” he added.
“This is a huge accomplishment and I am very proud of our students!” said Principal Joan Perez.
“Mr. Watkins did an amazing job at coaching the kids and teaching them the real world skills they need to be ready to solve problems of the 21st century. They represented Collegewood well and I look forward to watching them continue to grow with the First Lego League robotics,” she added.
The Robomasters Cougars 4-1 were honored during the school’s Spirit Day assembly on January 10.
“We wanted to reward our students by giving them individual trophies,” Coach Watkins said.

Walnut: Election Season Kicks Off For Walnut

Walnut City Council Members Mary Su and Bob Pacheco

Council members Mary Su and Bob Pacheco held their campaign kick-off last week. (Photo By: Ariel Carmona Jr.)

BY ARIEL CARMONA JR.

Walnut – Three candidates filed their nomination papers for the Walnut City Council election, set for April 8. The three candidates include current Council Members Mary Su and Bob Pacheco, along with a new candidate, Betty Tang. The election season kicked off on Saturday, Jan. 11, when incumbents Mary Su and former assemblyman, Bob Pacheco, held their re-election campaign at their Lemon Creek Village shopping campaign headquarters.

A number of elected federal, state and local officials and other dignitaries were in attendance to support the pair of candidates seeking to retain their seats on the Council. Among those were U.S. Rep. Judy Chu, D-Monterey Park; U.S. Rep. Ed Royce, R-Fullerto; State Assemblyman Curt Hagman; and former U.S Treasurer, Rosario Marin. Also in attendance were Walnut Mayor, Tony Cartagena; Diamond Bar Mayor, Carol Herrera; Diamond Bar Mayor Pro-Tem, Steve Tye; and a majority of the members of the Walnut Valley School Board, the Walnut Valley Water Board and the Mt. SAC Board of Trustees.

“Mary is really a great person for this community,” said Congresswoman Chu. She added that Su’s dedication to the City goes back to when she founded the Chinese-American Parents Association for the Walnut Unified School District and continued through her days as President of the city’s Chinese-American Association. “This is a person who more than deserves being re-elected to the Walnut City Council. I think we are really lucky to have her.”

Marin said she has known Pacheco almost 20 years, and she has supported him at various positions throughout his political career.

Walnut Council Member Bob Pacheco

U.S. Representative, Ed Royce, talked about how much he supported Bob Pacheco (shown above) and Mary Su. (Photo By: Ariel Carmona Jr.)

“I am here because we want government that works. We yearn for government that really fulfills our needs. We are here for that government that supports our families and keeps them safe, and I am here to support Bob because I know he is an honest man, he’s trustworthy, and he takes his job very seriously. Everywhere he’s been he has done an excellent job,” said the former U.S. Treasurer.
“I know the citizens of Walnut have benefited from his experience, from his knowledge and his commitment. And I am here to support Mary Su because Mary has also been a magnificent public servant, and that’s all we want, we want public servants to do their best for our families,” said Marin.
Congressman Royce said he was very impressed with the work of the Walnut City Council. “There’s a lot of talent in this room, people who’ve served on the City Council for years, but think about some of the things that they did, particularly with Mary Su.”
“Mary Su used to be the Chairperson of the Parks and Recreation Commission and in that capacity she had a certain vision, as did Bob Pacheco who was on the council at that time. They had a vision of having a rural environment here in the middle of Southern California where they would preserve those walking trails, preserve those riding trails and keep that atmosphere alive, and when things came up like those radio towers, they made sure they didn’t go up.”
Royce praised Su for her involvement with the Chinese-American Parents Association and for her efforts to strengthen the council’s relationship with Mt. SAC and the local school district. Royce also pointed out that Walnut has won award after award, including best schools, most livable city, and one of the safest cities to live in California, which Royce said was because of the City’s work with local law enforcement.

Su thanked all of the elected officials and other dignitaries in attendance for their support and friendship. “For many years we have had over 100 percent reserves in our budget. We didn’t cut a single service, we didn’t increase any taxes, and there are so many other things we accomplished, I just can’t name them all,” said an emotional Su, “Overall my heart is with the city of Walnut, I belong to Walnut, Walnut is my child, Walnut is everything to me, that’s why I am devoted to Walnut.”

Su enumerated a number of benefits that the city has seen since she assumed a seat in the Council including expansion of Grand and Temple Avenues, the restoration of City fireworks, collaborations with the local school districts, free services for seniors and many other projects.
“I will keep my promise again. No tax increases, continue to maintain high the quality life in Walnut, maintain high education in the City of Walnut, work together with Congress, the State Assembly and Los Angeles County to bring more resources to Walnut, to work together with each one of you, to listen to your opinion, your suggestions, your ideas to improve Walnut,” said Su.
“Bob’s been serving this community for 40 years. You have a man with experience, from state level, from his contacts, from the national level. You’re a very lucky city,” said Assemblyman Hagman.

Pacheco told the assembled crowd of supporters and residents, “My family grew up here, my daughter was born when we first moved into Walnut, and since that time I’ve been involved. I need your help again to make sure I get reelected and make sure I can continue the work I have started. The most important thing I see for this city is making sure that we get along and that we unite our resources so that we work together toward the proper ends.”

Sarah Armijo contributed to this story.

Eastvale: Police Successfully Shut-down Another Pot House

Staff Reports

Eastvale- Eastvale Police and Riverside County Sheriffs have successfully shut down another marijuana grow house in Eastvale. The following is according to a Press Release from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Dept.:

Officers assigned to the City of Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team obtained new information regarding a residence being used for an illegal marijuana grow operation. A follow-up investigation was initiated and a search warrant was obtained for the residence.

On Tuesday, January 14, 2014, at 6:25 p.m., the search warrant was served in the 6300 block of Iris Ct. in Eastvale by officers assigned to the city of Eastvale’s Special Enforcement Team. 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 (5) pounds of processed marijuana and packaging material. Additionally, electricity was being bypassed around the meter, causing a serious fire hazard and resulting in approximately $6000.00 a month in stolen electricity.

Both subjects were arrested and booked into jail at the Robert Presley Detention Center. They have been identified as:
• John Tran, a 27 year-old resident of Los Angeles, for conspiracy, cultivation and possession of marijuana for sales, and grand theft of utilities.
• Vinh Tran, a 26 year-old resident of San Gabriel, for conspiracy, cultivation and possession of marijuana for sales, and grand theft of utilities.

The Eastvale Police Department is committed to the safety of the citizens of Eastvale and will be vigilant in investigating all crimes of this nature. The investigation is ongoing and we are reaching out to the public and asking anyone with information about this incident to contact Officer Javier Morando at the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

Photo courtesy: Riverside County Sheriff’s Department.

Vinh Tran

Vinh Tran

John Tran

John Tran

Pomona: National Public Conference Against Human Trafficking

The National Women’s Coalition Against Violence & Exploitation (NWCAVE) will be hosting the Southwest Conference Against Trafficking (SWCAT) in Pomona this weekend. SWCAT 2014 will bring three conferences together for one powerful, educational and inspirational weekend January 17-19, 2014 at the Sheraton Fairplex Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, CA.

Attendees and the public, whether attending the conference or not, are asked to bring new or gently used bras to help survivors of sex trafficking. Anyone wanting to donate bras are asked to come to the Sheraton Hotel & Conference Center in Pomona, CA Friday, January 17th between 7 a.m. -5 p.m. to drop off their contribution and/or to meet the woman behind this awesome organization, Kimba Langas.

The conference will offer breakout sessions, networking receptions, keynote speakers, resources, a film screening and author book signings. Speakers and experts are from San Diego, Orange County, San Bernardino County, Los Angeles, San Gabriel Valley and throughout the United States and Canada.

The Jane Velez-Mitchell Journalism Award will be presented on Saturday evening at the conference to Denver’s ABC 7 Investigative Reporter Keli Rabon for exposing the truth behind untested rape kits in Denver that resulted in a national change in legislation. “Fighting the ‘war on women’ must become a priority in our society…this can be accomplished only by making it a priority in our national dialogue and this conference opens up that conversation,” said Jane Velez-Mitchell, HLN.

About Free the Girls: Free The Girls is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization that provides job opportunities for survivors of sex trafficking. They collect gently used bras and donate them to the women as starting inventory for their own business selling the bras. Free the Girls is a coalition partner of the National Women’s Coalition Against Violence & Exploitation. Learn more http://www.freethegirls.org.

To register or more information visit http://www.SWCAT.org

This information is courtesy of NWCAVE.

I-10/I-605 Freeway Connector Closures Scheduled

The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) will close portions of the San Gabriel River Freeway (I-605) and San Bernardino Freeway (I-10) as part of the Interchange Improvement Project. The following schedule will be in effect, weather permitting:

On Thursday, Jan. 16, the following will be closed:
• 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. – Two lanes of east and westbound I-10 from I-605 to Frazier Street
• 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. – Westbound I-10 Frazier Street, Baldwin Park Boulevard, Francisquito Avenue and Puente Avenue on-ramps
• 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. – Two lanes of north and southbound I-605 from I-10 to West Ramona Boulevard
• 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. – Valley Boulevard on-ramp to northbound I-605
• 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. – Southbound I-605 connectors to east and westbound I-10
• 9 p.m. to 5 a.m. – West Ramona Boulevard on-ramp to southbound I-605
• 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. – Northbound I-605 connector to westbound I-10
• 9 p.m. to 6 a.m. – Eastbound I-10 Garvey Avenue on-ramp
• 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. – Westbound I-10 connector to north- and southbound I-605
• 10 p.m. to 5 a.m. – Eastbound I-10 connectors to north- and southbound I-605
• 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. – Eastbound I-10 Frazier Street off-ramp
• 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. – Northbound I-605 connector to eastbound I-10
• 11 p.m. to 4 a.m. – All lanes of westbound I-10 from Puente Avenue to I-605
• 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. – All lanes of northbound I-605 from Valley Boulevard to I-10
• 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. – All lanes of southbound I-605 from West Ramona Boulevard to I-10
• 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. – All lanes of eastbound I-10 from I-605 to Baldwin Park Boulevard

On Friday, Jan. 17, the following will be closed:
• 7 p.m. to 11 a.m. – Two lanes of east and westbound I-10 from I-605 to Frazier Street
• 7 p.m. to 10 a.m. – Westbound I-10 Frazier Street, Baldwin Park Boulevard, Francisquito Avenue, and Puente Avenue on-ramps
• 8 p.m. to 10 a.m. – Two lanes of north- and southbound I-605 from West Ramona Boulevard to I-10
• 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. – Valley Boulevard on-ramp to northbound I-604
• 9 p.m. to 10 a.m. – Southbound I-605 connectors to east and westbound I-10
• 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. – East and westbound I-10 connector to northbound I-605
• 10 p.m. to 9 a.m. – Eastbound I-10 Garvey Ave on-ramp
• 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. – Northbound I-605 connector to westbound I-10
• 10 p.m. to 10 a.m. – Eastbound I-10 Frazier Street off-ramp
• 10 p.m. to 9 a.m. – East and westbound I-10 connectors to southbound I-605
• 11 p.m. to 7 a.m. –Southbound I-605 West Ramona Blvd on-ramp
• 12 a.m. to 6 a.m. – Northbound I-605 connector to eastbound I-10
• 12 a.m. to 5 a.m. – All lanes of southbound I-605 from West Ramona Boulevard to I-10
• 1 a.m. to 5 a.m. – All lanes of westbound I-10 from Puente Ave to I-605
• 1 a.m. to 6 a.m. – All lanes of northbound I-605 from Valley Boulevard to I-10
• 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. – All lanes of eastbound I-10 from I-605 to Baldwin Park Blvd

MCM Construction, Inc. is the contractor for this $66 million Design Build project, which will create a flyover bridge from the southbound San Gabriel River Freeway (I-605) to the eastbound San Bernardino Freeway (I-10). Detour signs will be posted to direct motorists.
Anticipated completion is fall, 2015. Caltrans reminds you to “Slow For the Cone Zone.”

Information courtesy of the City of Walnut.

Chino Hills: New City Manager Hired

BY GLENN FREEMAN – Chino Hills – Following an extensive, two-month process involving 82 applicants, the City of Chino Hills hired Konradt “Rad” Bartlam as the City’s new City Manager. The appointment came during a special City Council meeting held on Jan. 8, 2014.

chino hills, konradt bartlam

Konradt “Rad” Bartlam (City of Chino Hills)

Bartlam comes to Chino Hills from Lodi, California, where he served in the same capacity since 2010. Previously, Bartlam was the Lodi’s Community Development Director from March 1996 to April 2005, where he is credited with the successful renovation of Lodi’s downtown core, according to a Chino Hills press release. Just prior to becoming Lodi City Manager, Bartlam worked in the private sector as a land consultant.

“I look forward to assisting the City Council with good guidance in achieving their goals and carrying out the community’s desires for their city,” said Mr. Bartlam in the press release. “I lived in the community in the 1980’s and always enjoyed the environment and feel of the area. The changes of the last 20 years have really created a unique community with the benefits of open spaces and the amenities of city life – it is still a bit of a hidden jewel.”

According to the city, the contract provides for a three-year-term at an annual salary of $202,800, with a one-time moving and relocation payment of $10,000. Remaining terms of the contract mirror the previous City Manager’s contract, the press release stated.

The city-owned property adjacent to the Shoppes at Chino Hills is where Bartlam says he looks forward to bringing in a “quality project that will bring in revenue and enhance the city,” according to the city.

Bartlam’s local roots include earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Urban and Regional Planning, and a Minor in Public Administration, both from Cal-Poly Pomona. He also has worked in the cities of Baldwin Park, Glendora, Simi Valley, Brea, and Pomona.

Bartlam replaces Mike Fleager, who retired on Nov. 27, 2013 after serving five years as the Chino Hill’s third City Manager.

Alamo Car Wash One-Stop Shop

Alamo Car Wash Walnut

If you want to see the difference in the way Alamo Car Wash and Detail Center can make your car look and run, visit them at 784 N. Nogales Street in Walnut. For more information, including business hours, call them at (626) 965-7922.

BY SEAN C. MOORE

Walnut – You’re a busy person with a lot to do. You need a car wash, an oil change, a haircut and you have to pick up a birthday card for a friend—and you haven’t even had lunch yet. You could run all over town trying to get all of this done, or you could get it all done at one stop: Alamo Car Wash and Detail Center.

Dan Gerstner and his wife, Sylvia, opened Alamo 18 years ago, and they have run the business with a simple philosophy ever since.“Our philosophy is to always have satisfied customers. We want them to be satisfied with what we do here, and 99.9 percent of the time, they are,” Gerstner said.

Situated in a four-acre complex at the corner of Nogales and Francesca Drive in Walnut, Alamo features a hand car wash, a Mobil gas station and an Xpress Lube oil change center, as well as a number of shops, which the Gerstners rent mostly to automotive-related businesses, but also include restaurants, beauty salons, a dentist’s office, a locksmith and a bookkeeping service. “We even have a shoeshine guy. It’s really a one-stop shop,” Gerstner said.

The car wash offers full-service hand car washes and detailing, which include waxing, buffing and interior cleaning, as well as an express wash for people on the go. “We have a new service we started a year ago—the Express Exterior Wash. It only takes five minutes and the customer stays in the car as it goes through the tunnel where it gets hand washed. It’s for people who are in a hurry,” he explained.
Asked why people should visit Alamo instead of other area car washes, Gerstner said, “I don’t know what other car washes do, but I know what we do. We’re very picky about service and the little details. And usually, when the car comes out, it’s cleaner than it’s ever been.”

Package washes are popular, Gerstner said, especially the Silver Package Wash. It includes an air freshener, sealer wax, polish wax, rainbow wax, clear coat sealant and Armor-All on the car’s tires.
Inside the brightly-decorated car wash, you can watch your car as it goes through the tunnel; get a massage in a leather massage chair, listen to the sound of tropical birds chirping, pick up a gift or card in the gift shop.

“If people need something at the last minute, like greeting cards, we have a wide selection they can choose from while they’re waiting for their car. We also carry just about any kind of auto accessories you might need,” Gerstner said.
Alamo’s oil change service is also extremely popular.
“Our quick lube service is very complete. We do the complete maintenance service for the car—transmission, power steering, brake fluid, the cooling system and fuel emissions service—we do the whole maintenance package for your car, and that’s why our quick lube service is so popular,” Gerstner said. Plus, oil change customers receive a free car wash.

Gerstner admits that Alamo is not the cheapest place to have your car washed or serviced, but maintains that the services they offer make them competitive with just about anybody else.
“We offer a higher level of service than many other places, and that’s why we’ve been so successful. People love their car—their car is like their baby, and it’s unbelievable how some of them treat their cars. We see customers who come in twice a week, and their cars look clean, but they still want them washed here,” he explained.

If you want to see the difference in the way Alamo Car Wash and Detail Center can make your car look and run, visit them at 784 N. Nogales Street in Walnut. For more information, including business hours, call them at (626) 965-7922.

Industry: Sheriff’s Station Offers “Solutions”

Youth Participating in the Solutions Program

Youth in the Solutions Program implement a community-friendly way of tagging a previously vandalized wall facing an elementary school. (Photo Courtesy: Deputy Jim Bickel)

BY K.P. SANDER

Industry – There are many joys that come along with parenting. Seeing your children grow into productive adults is a source of pride and love. But let’s face it, the world we live in is full of dangers. You just have to watch the news to see violence, hatred, anger and negativity rampant nearly everywhere. As parents, how do you get your children through adolescence amid not just the societal challenges, but the peer pressure of fitting in without succumbing to alcohol, drugs, sex, bullying, gangs and perhaps even worse trouble? What if you lose the battle? What if you have run out of ideas to keep your children on the right path?

The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD), Industry Station, offers a special program called “Solutions”; a diversion program in partnership with several Los Angeles County Universities and Colleges to help find solutions and strategies for families struggling with teen conflicts and destructive behaviors.The goal of this program is simple: Success. In their words, “The Solutions program aims to demonstrate to at-risk teens that poor life choices lead to a destructive lifestyle, and there are alternatives to joining gangs, committing crimes and using drugs and alcohol.”

In January of 2012, Deputy Jim Bickel and Sergeant Toni Calton created and launched an education-based program at their LASD Industry Station. After years of referring parents who were seeking help for their teenager’s destructive behavior elsewhere, they found a solution and offered a comprehensive program of parenting at-risk teens to the local community. For ten weeks, parents and their non-compliant teenagers attend simultaneous classes, free of charge.

For the parents, Sergeant Calton teaches, “Parent Project”, a certified, court-approved parenting class, and a component critical to the program’s success. For the teens, Deputy Bickel teaches them how to make better “Life Choices”. The program is assisted with student-mentors from Mt. San Antonio College, Cal Poly Pomona, the University of California at Irvine, Fullerton College, and Rio Hondo College. The college students receive undergraduate credits necessary for graduation, and are made Sheriff’s Department Volunteers (undergoing a full background check to complete the process). The Solutions program provides the internships that give these students real life experience, and they in turn provide the teens with the benefit of their education and knowledge as they work toward a career in related fields. Deputy Bickel says it’s a win/win situation.
When asked what led to the development of Solutions, Deputy Bickel says, “We were tired of turning away families looking for help with their out-of-control teen. Also, our field deputies needed a resource to help cut down on service calls related to domestic problems.” Bickel goes on to say that, “Confronting violence with violence doesn’t work. There are better ways of dealing with these situations, and Solutions works; that’s the main reason I do this.”

It does work. In fact Solutions is showing such success that Pomona courts are now sentencing offenders to the program. The courts have been impressed by what they have seen and some probationary stipulations are requiring enrollment in Solutions. In 2012, the Police Officers Association of Los Angeles County awarded Solutions with the Centurion Award for Excellence in Community Policing.
Since the inception of the Solutions program, five classes have been conducted benefiting 60 families and 50 at-risk teens. The youth who have participated in this program have remained in contact with both their mentors and the deputies. Four of the teens have joined the LASD family and become law enforcement Explorers. The parents have learned techniques to improve relationships with their children, and the fact that structure and rules, along with unconditional love, are essential for success.

If you have or know of a teen that could benefit from this program, you can get more information by contacting Deputy Jim Bickel at (626) 934-3315 or via email at jwbickel@lasd.org. Enrolling in a class could finally be the bridge that leads to an improved relationship with a child who is currently in line for a dismal future. Through Solutions, and fully participating in the behaviors associated with better life choices, a much brighter future is on the horizon.