Walnut: New Starbucks Center Nearing Completion

Photo By Raymond Mendoza A Starbucks is nearly completed at the new Lemon Valley Retail Center located off Valley and Lemon.

A Starbucks is nearly completed at the new Lemon Valley Retail Center located off Valley and Lemon. (Photo By Raymond Mendoza)

By K.P. Sander

Walnut – The Lemon Valley Retail Center, located at 20373 Valley Boulevard in Walnut, and home of the new Starbucks Coffee Drive-Thru, is nearly finished. The 7,390 square foot, two-story building, which was approved for construction by the Walnut Planning Commission in February of 2012, will include space for an additional restaurant on the first floor, and one to two office suites on the second floor.

The 24,400 square foot lot, located on the northwest corner of Valley Boulevard and Lemon Avenue, was initially developed back in 1965. It was the site of a gas service station, which was demolished in 1995.

To ensure safety for future development, the property went through an environmental remediation from 1995 through 2010. According to the Walnut Planning Commission Minutes from January 18, 2012, the property owner has obtained the appropriate documentation from Los Angeles County certifying that the lot was properly abated of any environmental impacts resulting from the prior gas service station use, and was cleared for future development. Construction was slowed earlier this year pending approval of the drive-thru lane.

Positioning on the property, appropriate access to the main streets, and the affects the vehicle queue would have on traffic and parking for other businesses in the center all had to be finalized. The City of Walnut Building Department states that Starbucks is the only confirmed business at this time. The popular quick-service restaurant, Taco Factory, is rumored to become part of the center, but verification has not yet been provided.

Despite which business options plan to join the coffee house, the Lemon Valley Retail Center is a welcome addition to the City of Walnut. Starbucks is planning on opening for business on September 24, 2013. Pumpkin Spice Latte, anyone?

Eastvale: Wild pigs? Don’t grab the hunting gear just yet!

eastvale, wild pigs

Wild pigs on the run.

By Glenn Freeman

Eastvale: Last October, a handful of incidents were reported involving feral pigs causing thousands of dollars in damage to landscaping at Riverwalk Park in Eastvale. The attacks prompted questions about eradication, including the possible issue of “depredation permits.” As of today, no such permits have been issued by Department of Fish and Wildlife to either the City of Eastvale or Jurupa Community Services District.

According to the City of Eastvale, “depredation permits” are “species specific” and relating to particular property damage that the wild animals have caused. These permits are issued to the jurisdiction or property owner where the specific damage has occurred.

This would give the public a right to hunt the animals, BUT, “state law prohibits discharge of a firearm or bow and arrow within 150 yards of any developed recreation area (e.g., a picnic area or playground), or within 150 yards of a home, without the written consent of the homeowner,” according to Jeff Villepique, Environmental Scientist at the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, the city reported.

However, both JCSD, which manages the park, and the City of Eastvale, do not allow hunting of the feral pigs within their jurisdictions without that specific permit.

Eastvale city municipal code states: “No person shall discharge or set off within the city limits any firearm or other contrivance discharging or propelling shots, slugs, bullets, darts, arrows, rocks or other missiles,” according to a release issued by the city.

Jurupa Community Services District director of parks and community affairs, Richard “Ric” Welch, says there have been no recent attacks and no plans at this point to pursue the permit. “Fortunately this has been a non-issue for the Parks Department of late,” Welch said.

So in essence, you CAN HUNT PIGS, but NOT WITHIN the city limits of Eastvale, NOR ON the JCSD property. UNLESS permits are issued by Department of Fish and Wildlife TO either the City of Eastvale or Jurupa Community Services District, which hasn’t happened, and most likely never will.

Gets confusing when you ask three branches of government the same question.

(Michael Armijo contributed to this story)

Eastvale: Bill Link is New City Council Member

eastvale, city council, bill link

Asst. City Clerk Ariel Hall swears in new Council Member Bill Link. (Jennifer Madrigal)

By Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale: At tonight’s Special Session Eastvale Council meeting at Rosa Parks elementary, a crowd gathered for the public interview process of potential council members filling an open spot. Kelli Howell resigned after serving 3 years on the council to attend to her growing family. While 12 applicants originally filed before the December 26 deadline, only 10 were in attendance tonight. The applicants were: Raul Gutierrez, Anwer Khan, Susan Luan, David Magsam, Cesar Morales, Joe Tessari, Albert Randall, Warren Pulley, Robert Chang, and Bill Link.

Each of the candidates was given 2 minutes to make an opening statement and then asked a few questions by council members Rush, Degrandpre, Welch and Mayor Bootsma. Some of the questions asked were: What do you think is good and bad about Eastvale? What can your experience bring to the City?

The council members also wanted to know if each candidate understood the commitment and time requirements required of the position. Each candidate was given time to answer and then council members were able to ask further questions or to ask for more detail about a specific reply.

After some deliberation and a short break, Council came back and Bill Link was selected to be the next City Council Member. (Bootsma, Welch and Rush all voted yes and Degrandpre did not vote. ). Bill Link is retired and currently part of the Building Commission. He has been active in the community and involved in various foundations. His first meeting as a new council member will be at this month’s First City Council meeting, on January 8,2014 at Rosa Parks 6:30pm.

Eastvale: Building 2nd Fire Station

Staff Reports

Eastvale – Last month, the City of Eastvale closed escrow on a 1.75 acre parcel located at 14491 Chandler Street, in Eastvale 92880 for the location of Eastvale’s second Fire Station.

City and Fire officials discussed the need of another Fire Station, which is planned to include a second building that will serve as the City’s Emergency Operations Center (EOC). This portion of the overall project will be dependent upon costs, available funding and potential grant funding opportunities.

“We made the decision to acquire land and build a second fire station based on the current and future projected growth of the community…” said City Manager Carol Jacobs in a press release issued by the city.
“The City will build a second station that provides enough space for additional fire personnel to meet the growing needs of the community. It’s important to plan and build for the future of Eastvale while providing exceptional coverage and service to our residents,” added Jacobs.

The 1.75 acre parcel was purchased from Douglas and Diane Dimitruk in the amount of $570,862.91. The funds for this expenditure came from the City’s Fire Fund and will not impact the City’s General Fund. The City’s Fire Fund will be able to fund the building, staffing and equipment at the new fire station, according to the city.

City Hall will issue a Request for Proposal (RFP) for design by March 2014, followed by an RFP for construction. It is anticipated that the project will break ground within 18 months to two years, the city said in the release.

Eastvale: Start the New Year Off by Becoming a Neighborhood Watch Block Captain

Staff Reports

Eastvale – Complaining about crime? Well stop, and do something about it.

The New Year is upon us! Make it part of your New Year’s Resolutions to get to know your neighbors and start a Neighborhood Watch program in your neighborhood. Developing an active Neighborhood Watch program is a great way to improve security, reduce crime and combat illegal activity.

Neighborhood Watch is a cooperative partnership between neighbors and their police department designed to improve security and reduce crime. Citizens involved with the Eastvale Neighborhood Watch program will learn about the Eastvale Police Department resources and proven principals for increasing security and reducing crime. Public safety is everyone’s responsibility, and together we can make a real difference.

The Eastvale Police Department is dedicated to public safety and continuously looks for Eastvale citizens interested in forming a Neighborhood Watch.

If you are interested in forming a Neighborhood Watch program in your area, please contact Deputy Jeff Cryder at (951) 955-9225, or email Deputy Cryder atjcryder@riversidesheriff.org.

Walnut: Winter Solstice Tells A Beautiful Story

BY SARAH ARMIJO

St Lorenzo Choir performs in Walnut

The St Lorenzo Choir sang beautifully at the Winter Solstice Concert.

Walnut – When you hear a story through music, it creates a special meaning, and the story told through the performers in the Winter Solstice concert was a unique and passionate way of hearing the story of Christmas.

The Winter Solstice concert held at St. Lorenzo Catholic Parish Church on December 28, 2013 featured an impeccable performance from the St. Lorenzo Ruiz Choir, the Walnut Valley Symphony Orchestra and Master Chorale, and Msgr. Joseph V. Brennan.

Under the direction of the talented Dr. Nové Deypalan and Collaborative Artist, Stephen Lazarus, the performers in the Winter Solstice concert were able to leave the audience speechless after each piece.

The night started off with the recently created Walnut Valley Symphony Orchestra getting the audience in the Christmas spirit with “A Christmas Festival” arranged by Leroy Anderson. Then, with it’s now 100 members, the St. Lorenzo Ruiz Choir took the stage by singing “We’ll Dress the House” arranged by Deypalan.

But the audience were left in awe when Cristina Pacheco, Walnut High School graduate and Executive Director of the Walnut Valley Symphony Orchestra & Master Chorale took the stage to sing “As If We Never Said Goodbye” to start off the series of amazing vocalists.

After the remarkable performances from soloist Jordan Jimenez, trio Brian, Jada and Devon Roberts, and duet Ava Mills and Kristy Camarella, the Walnut Valley Master Chorale made their first appearance to sing a series of Christmas classics.

Following Chris Rodriguez’ conduction of the last two songs in the “Welcome Home” section, vocalists Jackie Madrigal, Msgr. Joseph V. Brennan, and Anna Betancourt, along with the Walnut Valley Symphony Orchestra took over the “Yuletide” section before the intermission.

Reverend Tony P. Astudillo’s speech started the second half of the concert. Then the Walnut Valley Symphony Orchestra got the audience right back in the Christmas mood, with the St. Lorenzo Ruiz Choir following.

After the variety of performances from the amazing vocalists, Paul Kintanar, JCris Ronquillo, Roberto Gomez, Bess de Guzman-Valenzuela, and Sal Malaki, the night ended in an outstanding version of the classic “Hallelujah.”

The Winter Solstice performers received tremendous amount of support from the community. Eighteen letters were written to the church and director by community members, office leaders, schools, and members of the Catholic parish community to show their appreciation.

Walnut Mayor Antonio “Tony” Cartagena and Congressman Ed Royce attended the show and had nothing but great things to say about the Winter Solstice concert and the St. Lorenzo Parish Community.

“This worthwhile musical production serves as an excellent way for a much needed Vellucci Hall renovation and Faith Formation programs to feature their amazing talents. Most importantly, it provides superb musical entertainment for our benefactors and community members not only in the City of Walnut, but in the entire San Gabriel Valley,” said Mayor Cartagena in his letter to St. Lorenzo.

“My deepest appreciation to all parishioners of the St. Lorenzo Catholic Parish for their continued dedication and contributions to the St. Lorenzo community, as well as their continued support in the enhancement of the City of Walnut,” Cartagena added.

“I would like to thank everyone involved in the production of “Winter Solstice” for their tireless efforts and contributions to St. Lorezno’s parish. I applaud your service and unwavering commitment to your faith community,” said Congressman Ed Royce in his letter.

Pastoral Council Leader, Ed Slingluff, also gave a special thank you to Nové Deypalan, Arcel Punsalang, Honchee Natividad, and Espie Cabuntala for leading the faith community in the event, and he also thanked the “countless volunteers who worked hard behind the scenes to makes this endeavor a success.”

Deypalan, Music Director of St. Lorenzo Ruiz, also wrote a letter to the church on the day of the concert to show his appreciation, as well.

“To serve as Music Director of St. Lorenzo Ruiz Church is a notable privilege because of the selfless volunteer singers whose dedication is immeasurable,” said Dr. Nové Deypalan, who is also the Founder and Music Director of the Walnut Valley Symphony Orchestra and Master Chorale.

“I am very proud of the St. Lorenzo Ruiz Choir’s accomplishments and very grateful for their continued support. In addition, I am thrilled and honored to lead this remarkable ensemble that has touched my heart,” Deypalan added.

For more information about these groups and performers, go to http://www.walnutvalleysymphony.org or http://www.stlorenzo.org.

Diamond Bar: Four Rewarded For Reporting Crime

ANAPR STAFF REPORTS

Diamond Bar Report for Reward Program

“Report For Reward” Program rewards local Diamond Bar residents.

Diamond Bar – Four Diamond Bar residents were recently rewarded $500 each for reporting suspicious activity that lead to the arrest of three suspected burglars.

The financial awards were approved by a committee consisted of a sworn member of the Sheriff’s Department and Diamond Bar City staff under the Report for Reward program that went into effect Nov. 15, 2013.

The Report for Reward program aims to help combat residential and vehicular crimes within city limits by providing members of the public with a monetary incentive of up to $500 for information leading to the arrest of individuals who damage or destroy property while attempting or executing a residential or vehicular burglary, according to the City newsletter. The program is open to everyone, but City and Sheriff’s employees are not eligible for a reward.

Citizen Barbara DeCarbo was recognized as the first recipient of the Report for Reward program and was thanked for her services to the city at the Dec. 17 City Council meeting.

At the meeting, DeCarbo described the incident she reported to the Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station. She said she was home one September afternoon when saw a man walking on the sidewalk in front of her neighbor’s home and then walk to the side of the house to the backyard. Knowing that her neighbors weren’t home, she called the Police to give them information about the suspicious man and the suspicious vehicle that had been driving back and forth on her street. Sheriff Deputies responded quickly, which resulted in three male suspects being arrested that day.

DeCarbo then asked the community to please get to know their neighbors and get involved. The City Council agreed and Mayor Carol Herrera added that with 16,000 residential units in the city, it is impossible to have a deputy patrol each one.

The City website also states that one of the best ways to safeguard your neighborhood against burglaries is to get to know your neighbors and watch out for each other’s property. “The more eyes you have looking for suspicious or criminal activity, the better protected you and your neighbors will be against burglaries.” It also says to make sure to also trust your instincts, and immediately call the Sheriff’s Station if something does not look or feel right.

Suspicious activity that should always be reported includes unfamiliar persons on foot, bicycle, or vehicle driving through residential streets below the speed limit or lingering in an area, seemingly without a purpose. City officials say that when calling the Sheriff’s Station (909) 595-2264 (9-1-1 if the burglary is in progress or it is an emergency), try to provide as much as information as you can about what you are observing, such as description of the individuals, and the car color, make, model and, if possible, a license plate number.

The City also asks to consider joining or starting a Neighborhood Watch group in your area by calling Community Relations Deputy Aaron Scheller at (909) 839-7079.

The Report for Reward program was established after being approved by the Diamond Bar City Council – by way of Ordinance No. 08(2013) – during its regular meeting of October 1, 2013.

To encourage wider participation in the Report for Reward program, City staff and Sheriff’s deputies in late November 2013 met with Diamond Bar employees the United States Postal Service and the City’s contract street sweeping company to inform them of the program and guide them on how to detect suspicious behavior while out in the field, according to the newsletter. Additional meetings are planned with other City vendors and area service providers in the coming weeks. Community groups who would like a presentation on the Report for Reward program may contact City Hall at 909.839.7000.

For more information about the program, including answers to frequently-asked questions, please visit the City website at diamondbarca.gov/RFR.

Eastvale: Got Milk? How Many Dairies Are Left In Eastvale?

EASTVALE: Got Milk? How Many Dairies Are Left In Eastvale?
By Kimberley Sander

Eastvale – Back in the late 1990s, the area currently known as Eastvale had a population of over 90,000; however, the majority of the citizens weren’t people, they were cows…lots and lots of cows living on approximately 80 dairies in this beautiful valley.

In early 2000, tracts of homes started springing up in the Eastvale area, along with shops, restaurants and schools. The growth led to the exploration of cityhood for Eastvale in 2007, and on October 1, 2010, official incorporation was completed. But with all the growth, what has happened to all those dairies?

Just as the expanding population of Los Angeles forced dairies out of Cerritos toward northwestern Riverside County, the ever-growing Eastvale, with a population of approximately 54,000 residents, is forcing dairies to leave for central California, Oregon, Colorado and beyond. People keep trying to escape urban congestion, and the high prices that go along with space that is at a premium.

Mayor Ike Bootsma, whose father was one of the first Dairymen to settle from Holland into the Chino Valley area, can remember what it was like. All of the children in his family worked the Dairy until they left home. In 1975, Boostma and his brother started the Bootsma Calf Ranch, where he and his wife still reside, and at one point had about 8,500 head of cattle.

“Back in the day, everybody was our neighbor. There were more cows than people, but everyone pitched in and helped one another”, Bootsma said recently.

“The City of Eastvale has turned into the same situation, people helping one another. But things change. I miss the dairies, but cows and people don’t mix that well”, he added.

At this point, there are only two dairies still operational in the City of Eastvale; the Dyt Dairy, located on Archibald at Limonite, and Leal Ranch, in the northeast corner of the city. Although this may be the end of an era, there is something comforting about the sight of black and white Holsteins grazing nearby. In agreement with Mayor Bootsma, we will miss the dairies, too.

When the dairies moved this direction in the late 1990s, they may have thought they would stay in this valley until the cows come home, but once again, they are moving on. As Woody Guthrie penned in his famous song, “Whoopee-ti-yi-yo, get along little doggies. You know that Wyoming will be your new home”. Indeed.

Eastvale: Walmart Project Delayed

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Eastvale: Walmart Project Delayed

By Michael Armijo

The Eastvale Walmart, slated for the south east corner of Limonite and Archibald, has been delayed due to electrical towers that need to be moved prior to the project start, according to the city of Eastvale. This has delayed the open date of 2014, which was projected early last year.

The project, which was proposed in 2011 by Walmart, will be a 24-hour Super Walmart around 177k square feet, and improvements will be made to area roads for accessibility. Other tenants will occupy the location with Walmart being the only large anchor store. The building will be a ‘Green Store,’ a part of their environmental plan to boost energy efficiency, cut down on waste, and reduce greenhouse gases tied to global warming, which will be considered a nationwide ‘pilot store’.

Walmart is working on with Edison to move the electrical towers that scour the 40-acre property. Until the modifications are approved, planning work on the property, which borders the cities of Ontario and Chino, will be stalled until the approvals to move the towers are ok’d by Edison. Two of the towers, which are close to each of the roadways of Archibald and Limonite, create a liability issue, according to online reports. Moving the estimated 120-foot towers would cost about $1 million, the report said.

The widening of Limonite and Archibald, part of the plan to accommodate the higher amount of already congested traffic, affects the proximity of the towers to the street. Concrete barriers around the towers were also an option, according to the same report. If Edison approves the recommendation, work would begin immediately.

“Walmart purchased the property and they came to the City of Eastvale and asked for an application to build,” said Eastvale’s City Manager Carol Jacobs in an earlier article by Eastvale News. “So this was all initiated by Walmart.

Some cities make it an effort to try to draw Walmart to them, and after that initial contact, Walmart usually ask the city for money to help build the store, with the promise of sales tax revenue in return. According to city officials, Walmart has not asked for anything and the city has not offered anything for locating to the city. Walmart owns the property.

“This could bring over $1 million in sales tax revenue to the city,” said Mayor Bootsma early last year. “Residents will have an opportunity to review plans and offer opinions at City Council meetings before the project breaks ground.”

Though Walmart and Sam’s Club regularly build in close proximity of each other, Jacobs says this location will be strictly a Walmart.

Note: Is it ‘Wal-Mart’ or ‘Walmart’? According to CNBC.com, the legal name is ‘Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.’ but when you refer to just the store, the proper spelling is ‘Walmart’ as in “Jane loves shopping at Walmart.”

#Eastvale #Chino #Chino Hills #Ontario #Green Store #Walmart #Wal-Mart spelling #Limonite #Archibald #new project #edison #SCE #towers #electrical towers #energy efficient

3.1 Earthquake Reported In Marina del Rey

A preliminary 3.1 magnitude earthquake was reported  today, Friday, at 11:48 am, near Marina del Rey. No injuries or damage reported so far. 

 

#earthquake #magnitude #Marina del Rey

Lowe Chiropractic: Your Partner in Good Health

BY K.P. SANDER

Diamond Bar – With over 21 years of experience, Lowe Chiropractic offers a variety of services for sports injuries and other common disorders such as back pain, sciatica, neck pain, fibromyalgia, arthritis, joint disease, headaches/migraines, frozen shoulder, and much more.
Jeffrey Lowe, D.C., a Certified Chiropractic Sports Physician, can help you on your way to better health through rehabilitation, acupuncture, massage therapy, and even Yoga classes.
Yoga, which has been practiced for more than 5,000 years, can provide many health benefits including flexibility, strength, balance, and learning how to move your body in new ways. Lowe Chiropractic believes that Yoga can enhance your health and provides classes to teach you proper techniques. Ashtanga Flow classes are held on Wednesdays at 6:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 12:00 Noon; Gentle Flow classes are held on Wednesdays at 7:00 p.m. and Saturdays at 1:00 p.m. The cost is $13 for a single class, or $110 for a pack of 10.
Dr. Lowe and his team are fully equipped to help you on your path to optimum health. In addition to assisting with your chiropractic needs, they can provide Department of Transportation (DOT) physical examinations, help you learn about your genetic risks through DNA analysis, provide customizable nutritional and weight loss regimens, and truly partner with you in achieving the best health possible.
Lowe Chiropractic is located in the Albertson’s shopping center at 1135 S. Grand Avenue in Diamond Bar, and can be reached at (909) 861-7350, or email at LoweChiropractic@msn.com. Their hours are Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to Noon and 2:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.; and Saturdays 9:00 a.m. to Noon. Visit their website at http://www.DrJeffLowe.com.

Anaheim: Help Identifying Victims

OCDA

Anaheim – Law enforcement is seeking the public’s help identifying potential additional victims of a man chared with attempting to sexually assault his neighbor and attacking a woman on a jogging trail.

Mario Orlando Montano, 55, Anaheim, is charged with one felony count each of attempted forcible rape, assault with the intent to commit a sexual offense, and assault with force likely to produce great bodily injury, and sentencing enhancements for great bodily injury to a sexual assault victim and causing great bodily injury.  If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 12 years in state prison and lifetime sex offender registration. Montano is being held on $200,000 bail.

On the afternoon of Dec. 9, 2013, Montano is accused of knocking on the door of his neighbor, 42-year-old Jane Doe #1, and was let into the home by a child. The defendant is accused of briefly chatting with the victim before asking her for sex. When Jane Doe #1 declined, Montano is accused of advancing on her and cornering her in a room. He is accused of repeatedly telling her that he wanted sex and trying to put his arm around her. The defendant is accused of unzipping his pants with the intent to commit a sexual assault. The victim feared that she was about to be sexually assaulted, said that she would report Montano to his landlord, and Montano is accused of then fleeing the scene.

On the afternoon on Dec. 10, 2013, 24-year-old Jane Doe #2 was jogging on a trail in a reservoir in Anaheim Hills. When she slowed to a walk, Montano is accused of jogging up to her and trying to engage her in conversation. Jane Doe #2 did not know the defendant. Montano is accused of tackling Jane Doe #2 and knocking her to the ground. He is accused of climbing on top of her as she kicked and struggled to get away. When the victim began to scream, Montano is accused of covering her mouth. The victim’s tooth was knocked out in the struggle. He is accused of unzipping his pants with the intent to commit a sexual assault, but Jane Doe #2 was able to kick and escape.

Jane Doe #2 ran to a nearby home and called 911. The Anaheim Police Department (APD) immediately responded and located the defendant on the trail.

This case was investigated by APD. Anyone who believes they have been a victim is encouraged to contact Supervising District Attorney Investigator Paul Carvo at (714) 347-8794 or Orange County Crime Stoppers at (855) 817-6227.

If convicted, Montano’s lifetime sex offender registration will bar him from entering County recreational areas and City parks which have passed the Sex Offender Ordinance. Visit www.orangecountyda.com to read the prior press releases on the County’s Sex Offender Ordinance and the 14 other cities that have enacted the Child Safety Zone Ordinance.

Deputy District Attorney Jess Rodriguez of the Sexual Assault Unit is prosecuting this case.

Rancho Cucamonga: Police Bicycle Giveaway

San Bernardino Sheriff’s Dept.

Rancho Cucamonga – Christmas came early for 22 children of the Northtown community thanks to a unique, merit-based bicycle giveaway program that focuses on improvements of students in school and their commitment to community service.

The Rancho Police Department and Northtown Community Center hosted the second annual Bike Giveaway event Thursday night at the neighborhood community center.

The students received brand new bicycles, courtesy of Target in Rancho Cucamonga, as a reward for their good attendance, great citizenship and improved grades.

Unlike similar giveaway programs in the county, this was created to encourage — and reward – improved participation in school and the community.  More than 40 children from the North Town Community, grades 4 to 5, applied for consideration to the program.  Deputies from the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, as well as leaders from the North Town Community, monitored the nominees’ grades, citizenship and attendance by collaborating with school officials.

It is important to note it is not mandatory for participants to have stellar grades, attendance or citizenship to apply.  All they need is a willing-ness to do better in school and in their community.  Winners are chosen based on overall improvement, not simply a grade point average.

The finalists were chosen based on the above-mentioned criteria, with consideration given to 5th graders because it was the last year they were eligible for the program.  Those in the lower grades still have coming years to win.

The purpose of the program is two-fold: to provide a true incentive for children to strive for academic and civic excellence; as well as to bring together law enforcement, community/business leaders and educators for the common goal of motivating our youth.

All 22 bicylces were graciously donated and assembled by Target in Rancho Cucamonga.Initially, only 20 bikes were allotted for the giveaway but 22 students showed they truly deserved a reward and Target pitched in to donate the additional two bicycles. Carol Norris, a leader in the Northtown community, and Patti Coral, Vice Principal of Cucamonga Elementary, were integral in finding families to participate in the program. Sheriff’s Department officials plan to continue the bike give-away each year and give the children of Northtown an increased incentive to strive for greatness.

 

Straight Talk With Danice

I suspect my friend is seriously ill. She has recently lost a tremendous amount of weight, broken up with her long time boyfriend, and seems very withdrawn. When I ask if she is feeling ok she says yes, but it’s obvious that isn’t true. All her relatives are out of state. I’d like to help her, but she won’t open up.
Jan in Diamond Bar

Dear Jan,
When dealing with an adult peer, I think it’s best to respect the way in which they want to handle their own private issues. Make sure your friend knows you are there for her if she ever needs a friend. Make it easy for her to change her mind by respecting the boundaries she’s set. Stay available, polite, and open minded. Keep yourself in existence in her life but don’t push. Keep in mind that some people prefer to keep their personal issues private.
Take care,
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 passionfor 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.

AAA Offers Free Ride and Tow Within 7 Miles For New Years

AAA Offers Free Ride and Tow Within 7 Miles For New Years

“Tipsy Tow” is still being offered by the Auto Club for New Years Eve-ers who’ve had a few too many.
All you do is call (800) 400-4222 even if you ARE NOT A MEMBER!
Statistics show that traffic-related fatalities increase significantly around the holidays. That’s why AAA have sponsored the Tipsy Tow program, which offers free rides to drivers who have been drinking.

According to their website, the service is available to non-members as well as members and can transport you and your vehicle up to seven miles from the point of pickup. This service is limited to certain dates and times around a few holidays (July 4th and New Year’s Eve).

Remember to call, or get your friend who’s had a few too many by calling (800) 400-4AAA [4222].

#drunk #toomuch #alcohol #drunkdriving #freeride #freetow #savealife

Shooting A Gun Into The Air Is A Felony

Shooting A Gun Into The Air Is A Felony

As the New Year rings in, sometimes irresponsibility follows. Engaging in the discharging of weapons into the air to celebrate the arrival of the New Year is unsafe, unnecessary, and a felony.
California Penal Code Section 246.3 prohibits negligent discharging of firearms. Any person who violates Section 246.3 will have their firearm confiscated and will be arrested for a felony.
A bullet fired into the air can climb up to two miles. When it falls back to earth, it can reach a speed of 300 to 700 feet per second.
If you’re arrested for shooting a gun into the air, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
If a stray bullet from your gun should kill someone, you will be arrested and could face murder charges.
If you see someone fire a gun into the air, call 9-1-1
Questions: Riverside County Sheriff’s Department at (951) 776-1099. Hear a gun go off: Call 911.

#gun #air #bullets #illegal #discharge #weapons #new year #celebrations

Industry: Fourth Body Found At Industry Waste Facility

Industry – A body was found on Tuesday, Dec. 18, at the Athens Waste Collection Facility in Industry.  At a little before 9 a.m., Kesha Rena Williams was discovered in the 14000 block of Valley Boulevard.  She is thought to be a homeless woman who frequented the Leimert Park area, and somehow became part of the trash that was collected and transported to the facility.  An autopsy to determine cause of death is still pending.

Williams’ discovery is not the first for the Industry Waste Facility.  Back in June of 2002, a baby girl was found at the site in trash that was reportedly transported from somewhere in Azusa.  Investigators gave the infant the name of Amanda, before she was buried in the Garden of Angeles in Calimesa.  The case remains a cold file to this date.

In an ongoing investigation, another baby girl was found at the Athens facility a year ago, on December 10, 2012.  The infant’s death has been ruled a homicide, and although no arrests have been made, this is reportedly still an active case.  Authorities are looking for information about this baby, known as Jane Doe #83.  If you have information, please contact Sheriff’s Homicide at (323) 890-5500.

The third body was a more recent discovery, in July of this year.  Mark Christopher David arrived in a dumpster picked up in the Hollywood area.  He appeared to have died from an accidental drug overdose.

Just like Erin Lynn Cruz, 27, a homicide victim who was found mechanically separated at a water pollution control plant in Carson on October 26 of this year, these waste management facilities are an unfortunate way to discover that someone’s life ended and came to rest as trash.

Diamond Bar: Holiday Home Decorating Contest Winners

Best Use of Holiday Theme Diamond Bar Holiday Home Decorating Contests

The Knoll Family won the “Best Use of Theme” category in the decorating contest.

"Most Innovative" Winner Holiday Home Decorating Contes

The Mok family won the “Most Innovative” category for the contest

ANAPR Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Congratulations to the Martinez family, the Knoll family, and the Mok family for being the winners of this year’s Diamond Bar Holiday Home Decorating Contest (HHDC).

Now in its fifth year, the City’s HHDC aims to recognize Diamond Bar residents who help enhance holiday cheer in the community through their outdoor decorations. Diamond Bar homes were scored on display creativity, curb appeal and use of lighting in three categories.

Best Holiday Spirit Winner Diamond Bar Holiday Home Decorating Contest

The Martinez family was the winner of the “Best Holiday Spirit” category in the Diamond Bar Holiday Home Decorating Contest.

The first category was “Best Holiday Spirit”, which was judged on festive lights and decorations. Mark Martinez and his family were the winners of this category.

Patty Knoll and her family won the “Best Use of Theme” category, which was judged on how well a specific theme was used throughout the entire display.

Tom Mok and his family were the winners of the “Most Innovative” category, which was the use of new technologies and/original decoration methods or styles.

Winners in each category received a special recognition yard sign, a mention in the City newsletter and website, and a certificate of recognition from the Diamond Bar City Council.