Tag Archives: Chino

Life After Lugo

Photo courtesy: CVUSD Brianna Smith Gunn (right), a 2008 Don Lugo High graduate, talks to Don Lugo seniors about her experience in the Army.

Photo courtesy: CVUSD
Brianna Smith Gunn (right), a 2008 Don Lugo High graduate, talks to Don Lugo seniors about her experience in the Army.

Courtesy of Chino Valley Unified

CHINO– Looking like she was addressing her police officers in a shift briefing, Chino Police Chief Karen Comstock told Don Lugo students that success is theirs if they just have the right mindset. Chief Comstock was among more than a dozen Don Lugo High graduates who spoke to seniors, juniors and sophomores on January 7 about going to college during the annual “Life After Lugo.”

Don Lugo counselors founded the event seven years ago “because they felt that giving students as much information about college as possible would ensure greater success,” said teacher Sophie Yu. She took over coordination of the event three years ago, when original coordinator Kathie Spaun transferred to Chino Hills High. This year, Ms. Yu increased the number of sessions a senior could take from two to three. “All presenters are Lugo grads and my goal is to have more career pathways,” Ms. Yu said.

“Commit yourself to a process of learning,” Chief Comstock said as she walked back and forth among students in the Don Lugo multipurpose room. “Even if you don’t want to go into college after high school, get into a learning environment…Success is all in your futures, if you want it,” she said “…You are from Chino; you’re from Don Lugo. We believe in you.”

Following introductions and the chief’s keynote speech, other Don Lugo High alumni spoke to small groups of students on a variety of college-related topics in different classrooms. Among the subjects discussed were campus life, military experience, engineering, networking, picking the right school, commuting versus dorms, studying abroad, personal finance, the AVID college preparation program, the Dream Act, and time management.

Brianna Smith Gunn, a 2008 Don Lugo graduate, said she managed a hotel for a while before going to college, and then joined the Army 4 ½ years ago. Although she is only 5-foot-3, she worked in corrections for the military at Guantanamo Bay Detention Camp in Cuba, where war criminals and other high profile prisoners are detained. She said at least three of the approximately 30 students in the class she was addressing would go into the military, based on statistics kept on military service. She told the students that many soldiers have lost their lives to ensure the freedoms of Americans.

Don Lugo graduate Albert Perez, who said he was the first in his family to attend college, talked about how three-dimensional printing is used in the bio-medical engineering field he is studying. He passed around two of the items he has made with a 3-D printer: a Batman symbol, and the words “#1 Mom” with a heart symbol behind it. He also talked about the fun he had exploring a new city while attending college.

Graduate Elizabeth Cho said her parents are immigrants who didn’t go to college, so they had a hard time helping her when issues came up about her college experience. She told the Don Lugo students there are resources and people on college campuses that can help new students adjust. She also talked about overcoming the “imposter syndrome” in which students don’t feel like they belong at their college or that they are not “good enough” to be at the school. She said it was a culture shock for her to be attending prestigious Wellesley College in Massachusetts because of the more affluent students who attend that school, the long distance from her home in California, and the colder weather there. “You grow a lot,” she said of attending a college away from home. She concluded her comments by showing a video of students who have experienced culture shock in college. Among those shown were students who were the first in their families to attend college.

Other Don Lugo graduates who spoke included Megan Johnston, Janette Armenta, Joseph Green, Nick Flores, Jacqueline Dana Valera, Samantha Ochoa, Kendell Langrell, Randall Brakob, and Frankie Torres. A luncheon was held following the event, with muffins, cookies, and water provided by Ms. Yu’s brother-in-law.

Breaking the Barriers Workshop

Staff Reports

CHINO – Chino Police Department joins forces with the community in hosting a Breaking Barriers United Initiative Workshop on Saturday, Jan. 23 from 10 a.m. to noon at Valley Christian Church.
Workshop organizers say that the goal of the workshop is bring the community and law enforcement together for the purpose of promoting national change.

“Our mission is to restore the relationship between Law Enforcement Officers and Community Members by bridging the gap between them,” workshop organizers said in a statement.

Participants will also have the opportunity to participate in law enforcement scenario reenactments.

Valley Christian Church is locatged at 12410 Norton Ave. in Chino. The workshop is free and open to the public. For more details, please contact Chino Police Officer Ryan Tillman at 909.641.5229 or  Sergeant Rodney Lombard at 909.721.6524.

 

Chino School Placed on Lockdown

Photo courtesy: Chino PD

Photo courtesy: Chino PD

Staff Reports

CHINO – A man who ran from police prompted one Chino Valley Unified School District school to be placed on lockdown Thursday, Jan. 7, Chino police said.
Larry Lopez, 46 of Chino, who was stopped for a minor traffic infraction on Thursday, was able to get away and was believed to have barricaded himself into his home on San Antonio Avenue near Rhodes Elementary school.
Around 10 a.m., Schafer and San Antonio Avenues were closed and Rhodes Elementary was put on lock-down while police tried to get Lopez to surrender, officials said.
At 11:37 a.m., the school district posted on their Facebook page that the school was placed on locked due to police activity in the area. Afternoon Kindergarten classes were cancelled.
Officers deployed a flash bang at the house at 1:45 p.m. in attempt to make contact with the suspect. Police broke into the house at 3 p.m. and found that Lopez had evaded them.
The school district posted regular updates on their social media pages to keep public informed. Parents were also notified by a phone blast message by the school’s Principal Dr. Freed. Updates were also posted on Facebook.
The lockdown was lifted at regular dismissal time of 3:20 p.m. Dismissal took place at Cypress Trails Park, next to the school.
Dr. Freed thanked parents for their patience and commended students and teachers for their outstanding cooperation with police.
“We did the best we could while working in partnership with Chino Police,” she said. “Every decision was made with the safety of students as the number one goal.”
Lopez was apprehended the next morning at his home on San Antonio Avenue. He was taken to the West Valley Detention Center and booked for felony evading and an outstanding prior warrant.

Chino Valley Students March in 2016 Rose Parade

Photo courtesy: CVUSD

Photo courtesy: CVUSD
Chino High students Topanga Betke (left), August Decker-Curry, and Kayla Arcoverde were among the five Chino Valley Unified School District students who participated in the 2016 Tournament of Roses Parade on Jan. 1 as part of the Pasadena City College Tournament of Roses Parade Honor Band.

A Rosy Beginning for the New Year
Staff Reports
Chino Valley – Five high school students from Chino Valley Unified School District celebrated the New Year in style – marching down Colorado Boulevard in the 127th Tournament of Roses Parade.

Don Lugo High School students Anthony Erroa (alto saxophone) and Alana Pineda (color guard) and Chino High’s August Decker-Curry (trumpet), Topanga Betke (tall flag) and Kayla Arcoverde (banner) participated in Southern California’s New Year’s tradition as members of the Pasadena City College Tournament of Roses Parade Honor Band.
Over 600 high school students audition each year for the 200-plus spots in the band and pageantry, according to the pageant organizers.

After an intense audition and weeks of endurance training and practice, these students now have bragging rights as part of an elite group of performers that marched the famed six-mile route in Pasadena. The Pasadena City College Honor Band has participated in the Rose Parade since 1930.

“The students will have marched over 25 miles in rehearsal before they step on to the parade route on January 1,” the pageant website noted.  “This is one reason why the Tournament of Roses Honor Band looks and sounds as good at the end of the parade as they do at the beginning.”

Start New Year, New You at Clark’s

Staff Reports

CHINO – When it comes to health and nutrition, one size does not fit all. Just ask your neighborhood’s health and nutrition market, Clark’s Nutrition and Natural Foods Market who strive to make lives better one customer at a time.
Clark’s equates success not with size but with integrity, responsibility and service.

“The cornerstone of Clark’s market position is to provide reliable scientific information for the consumer’s benefit in making educated and informed decisions resulting in vibrant health,” Clark’s website states.

Spanning three generations, Clark’s Nutrition and Natural Foods Markets was founded in 1972 in Riverside by the Clark family patriarch, Jim Clark, whose vision of healthy living grew into what is today a 60 billion-dollar industry.

Today’s, Jim’s grandchildren have taken over the reins of Clark’s Nutrition and Natural Foods Markets. Grandson Jeff Clark is president, his brother Bruce Clark is vice president of retail development, and their sister Tracy Clark is the director of finance.
Their newest location in Chino, 12835 Mountain Avenue (at corner of Mountain Avenue and Riverside Drive), boasts a large selection of organic, gluten free, grass-fed beef, vitamins and raw foods. They also carry an extensive collection of health and beauty production including, celebrity Suzanne Somers’ skin care and cosmetic line, “SUZANNE Organics.”

Clark’s puts an emphasis on connecting with the community through various in-store and local events.

With locations in Loma Linda, Riverside, Rancho Mirage, and now Chino, Clark’s Nutrition lives up to their motto, “Live Better …We Can Help!”They provide regular free lectures on various health related topics and make-up tutorials with professional make-up artists.

Customers will appreciate their knowledgeable and helpful staff. Clark’s employees undergo a comprehensive in-house training curriculum, and continuing their education “which is now accredited”.

So, for all your health and nutritional needs, look no further than Clark’s in Chino or any of their other I.E. locals. Clark’s is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. Stop by for yourselves and experience Clark’s great customer service, knowledgeable staff, and affordable pricing. Whatever your health goals, Clark’s can help! Visit www.clarksnutrition.com.

Chino Valley Ready for El Niño

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – As the first of many El Niño storms arrive in the southland, officials are helping residents to be aware of how to be prepared for the storms and their aftermath. Chino Valley residents have been hearing about the El Niño weather system since last year’s summer months, and now Chino Valley Fire District officials are saying that they have started a public awareness campaign to inform residents about El Niño. They have created an El Niño information page on their website and they have begun sending messages through social media.
“We want residents to take a proactive approach,” Chino Valley Fire District’s Public Information Officer Massiel Ladron De Guevara said.
El Niño storms in California caused economic losses of $2.04 billion in 1982-83 and $804 million in 1997-98, according to a recent report by the National University System Institute for Policy Research.
Chino Valley Fire, Police and Public Works are working together with county officials– along with local, regional and state partners – to make sure all safety issues throughout the county are being addressed, according to city officials.
Flash flooding and flows of mud and debris are a concern in the Chino Valley. Severe flooding on Euclid Avenue near Prado Regional Park; Pine Avenue by El Prado Golf Course; on Kimball at Rincon Meadows, and Schaefer Avenue between 4th Street and Central Avenue is expected.
Public safety officials are urging commuters to be cautious around potential flooding areas and to follow this simple advice by the National Weather Service: Turn Around, Don’t Drown.
Each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other thunderstorm related hazard, according to the NWS. People underestimate the force and power of water. Many of the deaths occur in automobiles as they are swept downstream.
“A lot of people don’t know that an average car can float in as little as 12 inches of water and most cars can be swept away in 18-24 inches of moving water,” Ladron De Guevara said. “If you come across a water-covered road, do not attempt to cross it on foot or in a vehicle. Remember, ‘Turn Around Don’t Drown!”
Flood control channels and culvert crossings are being cleared in anticipation of heavy rains, and advance teams are advising homeless encampments to relocate, according to county officials.
Chino and Chino Hills residents can get up to 25 sandbags and sand at no cost.
Here is a listing of sandbag distribution locations:
Chino
Fire Station No. 67 (SANDBAGS & SAND AVAILABLE)
5980 Riverside Drive Chino, CA 91710; (909) 902-5267
For residential use only, not industrial. No limits on quantity. (Self-service: Residents must bring their own shovels).
Fire Station No. 63 (SANDBAGS & SAND AVAILABLE) 7550 Kimball Avenue Chino, CA (909) 606-2415
Chino Valley Independent Fire District Administration (SANDBAGS & SAND AVAILABLE) 14011 City Center Dr. Chino Hills, CA 91709; (909) 902-5260
Chino Hills
Fire Station No. 61 (SAND & SANDBAGS AVAILABLE) Residents only – Must have proof of residency. 5078 Schaefer Avenue Chino, CA 91710; (909) 902-5261
Fire Station No. 62 (SAND/SANDBAGS AVAILABLE – Bring own shovel) 5551 Butterfield Ranch Road Chino Hills, CA 91709; (909) 597-9062
Fire Station No. 64 (SAND/SANDBAGS AVAILABLE – Bring own shovel) 16231 Canon Lane Chino Hills, CA 91709; (909) 597-9064

Additional El Niño resources are available at http://www.chinovalleyfire.org and on the county website, http://www.sbcounty.gov/main/elnino.asp.

Chino P.D. Combating Package Theft with GPS Bait Packages

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Courtesy of Chino Police Department

CHINO – Chino P.D. is utilizing GPS tracking technology in an effort to combat the growing concern of package theft from residences this holiday season.

Several bait packages equipped with GPS trackers have been placed at residential locations throughout Chino this week as an enforcement tool and proactive prevention measure. The device will notify police personnel when packages have been stolen and allow officers to locate suspects with a high degree of accuracy.

“We want these thieves to know we are stepping up our enforcement efforts to protect our citizens,” states Special Enforcement Team Sergeant Marotta. “We hope that through the use of tools such as this, we can both prevent these thefts and apprehend those who victimize our community members.”

If you have any information related to incidents of package theft or have been a victim of package theft in Chino and would like to report it, please contact Chino PD at 909.628.1234.

Vintage War Plane to Soar Over Chino Valley on Jan. 2

By Monique Valadez

Courtesy of Planes of Fame Museum Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, the third most produced fighter plane of WWII. Photo of P-40

Courtesy of Planes of Fame Museum
Curtiss P-40 Warhawk, the third most produced fighter plane of WWII.
Photo of P-40

Chino – On January 2 look up to the skies for a special flyover by a vintage Curtiss P-40 Warhawk in honor of the 75th Anniversary of the Flying Tigers, the 1st American Volunteer Group.

But the action starts inside the Planes of Fame Air Museum with a speaker’s panel discussion featuring aviation historians, impressive displays, and a rare movie screening on Saturday.

As part of the museum’s monthly Living History Flying Day, this year the P-40, the most advanced fighter in the US arsenal at the outbreak of WWII and of which over 13,000 would be produced by war’s end experts say, will be on display and perform a flight demonstration. The shark-faced nose art of the Flying Tigers remains among the most recognizable image of any individual combat aircraft or combat unit of World War II.

Starting at 10 a.m., distinguished aviation experts, historians and veterans will make up the speaker’s panel. Aviation Historian Kevin Thompson will moderate the discussion. The museum’s Founder Edward Maloney will also bring his expertise to the presentation and help moderate.

Author and Aviation Historian Mark Carlson will discuss his latest book, Flying On Film: A Century of Aviation in the Movies. The book will be available for purchase at the event.

Guests will also be treated to “Ways of the Warhawk” movie showing. The 35-minute black and white film was produced in 1940 by the Curtiss-Wright Corporation and provides an up-close look at the mighty P-40 aircraft.  According to museum officials, the film puts you in the cockpit to learn the controls and features of the P-40. Two screenings will be held at 12:45 p.m. and 1:30 p.m.

The Planes of Fame Air Museum is located at the Chino Airport, 7000 Merrill Avenue #17. The event is open to the public. The museum opens at 9 a.m.

Former Cheerleading Coach Pleads Guilty to Molesting Girls on his Squad

Photo Courtesy of San Bernardino County District Attorney Kristopher Bland

Photo Courtesy of San Bernardino County District Attorney
Kristopher Bland

Courtesy of San Bernardino County District Attorney

Chino – A Chino cheerleading coach was sentenced Friday to 18 years in state prison for molesting girls on his Pop Warner cheerleading squad.
Kristofer Bland, 34, of Chino pleaded “no contest” to 13 felony counts, including one count of sexual penetration on a minor age 14 and 12 counts of lewd act on a minor aged 14 or 15. The 13 charges involved three girls on his squad.
Bland was a cheer coach with the Chino Pop Warner league, a non-profit football and cheering organization for children ages 5-15.
“The defendant is a true predator,” said Deputy District Attorney Karen Schmauss, who prosecuted the case. “He used his position as a cheerleading coach to win the trust and compliance of the girls under his care. His influence was so strong that some of the children whom he molested continue to defend him, because they love him so much.”
The mother of one of the girls called Chino police in Feb. 2014 after overhearing her discussing part of what Bland had done to her. The 14-year-old told police that Bland had committed acts of molestation on her while giving her a ride home from cheer practice. He had also told her that he had molested two other girls on the squad.
Bland admitted to police that he molested the 14-year-old. He also admitted to molesting two 15-year-olds on the squad. The crimes were committed over a span of five months between Aug. 2013 and Jan. 2014.
During the investigation, Bland was charged with molesting six additional girls on the team, aged 12 and 13. However, those charges were dismissed as part of a plea agreement.
At the time of his arrest, Bland was a private first class of the California Army National Guard in Azusa, working in intelligence analysis. His security clearance was pulled at the time of his arrest, and he will now receive a general discharge, other than honorable, according to his commanding officer.
The courtroom was packed with victims and their friends and family members, along with family members and supporters of the defendant.
The mother of the 14-year-old spoke at the hearing, stating, “I do not believe that he is sorry. I believe he is just sorry he got caught. Kristofer Bland is a sexual predator and threat to our community. I don’t know what the future holds for my daughter but I do know that as of today she will no longer be a victim of Kristofer Bland but a survivor of Kristofer Bland. She is the strongest and bravest person I know. I know she will not let this destroy her.”

Chino Valley Students Treated to Shopping Spree

Photo courtesy: CVUSD A Walmart employee checks out a student and his chaperones.

Photo courtesy: CVUSD
A Walmart employee checks out a student and his chaperones.

Courtesy of CVUSD

Chino – Smiles, grins and laughter came easy for 100 Chino Valley Unified School District students and their parents as they were treated to a police escort, a shopping spree, visit with Santa, crafts and snacks during the annual Make A Child Smile event on Dec.15 at Walmart in Chino.
The students, selected by their schools for the field trip, pressed their noses against the glass of school bus windows as Chino Police motorcycle officers whizzed by, stopping traffic as the caravan of buses was led to the store by two Chino Valley fire engines.
The students were greeted at the store by dozens of waving Walmart employees, Chino Valley Independent Fire District firefighters, Chino Police officers, San Bernardino County Sheriff’s deputies, Highway Patrol officers, Cal Fire officials, other first responders from various departments around the Chino Valley, and Chino Valley Unified School District employees. Santa was among the first to shake the students’ hands as they disembarked.
“We’re like celebrities!” one child yelled as he arrived at the store.
Each child, accompanied by a parent or volunteer, was paired with first responders or community volunteers and a Walmart employee and allowed to shop for $150 in items. Gift cards for the purchases were provided by Chino Valley Fire Foundation. Some students chose large gifts like bicycles. Others picked out clothes, shoes and small toys. Some students said they were shopping for holiday presents for their entire family.
Nearly a dozen volunteers, including members of the Chino Hills 55+ Club, bagged up the items so they’d be safe for the bus trip back to the schools.
The students were also treated to snacks inside a tent, crafts, two areas of man-made snow, and a formal photo with Santa courtesy of School Portraits by Adams Photography in Chino.
The event is hosted by Chino Valley Fire Foundation.

Photo courtesy: CVUSD A student and her family member have their photo taken with Santa, a Chino Police officer, and a Walmart employee at the annual Make A Child Smile event at Walmart in Chino.

Photo courtesy: CVUSD
A student and her family member have their photo taken with Santa, a Chino Police officer, and a Walmart employee at the annual Make A Child Smile event at Walmart in Chino.

Chino Valley Fire gives toys to Children’s Hospital

Courtesy of the Chino Valley Fire District (L-R) front row: Child, Public Information Officer Massiel De Guevara, Junior Firefighter Vincent, child receiving care at Children’s hospital middle row, Firefighter/Paramedic Shane Stocking, Firefighter Jason Farnsworth, Fire Inspector Alvin Cuna. Far back, Firefighter/Paramedic Tommy Kavanaugh

Courtesy of the Chino Valley Fire District
(L-R) front row: Child, Public Information Officer Massiel De Guevara, Junior Firefighter Vincent, child receiving care at Children’s hospital
middle row, Firefighter/Paramedic Shane Stocking, Firefighter Jason Farnsworth, Fire Inspector Alvin Cuna.
Far back, Firefighter/Paramedic Tommy Kavanaugh

Courtesy of Chino Valley Fire District

Chino – Off duty Firefighters, Fire District staff, and Junior Firefighter, Vincent Dominguez, visited Children’s Hospital Los Angeles on Dec. 22, 2015 to deliver toys to children receiving care.  Jr. Firefighter Vincent is a 7-year-old former patient of Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, where he fought and beat cancer.  He received his Chino Valley Fire District uniform and junior firefighter badge on June 20, 2015, while still undergoing treatment.

During a recent toy drive for Chino Valley children where Jr. Firefighter Vincent was volunteering his time, he approached our firefighters with the idea of going to the children’s hospital to deliver toys to children that are currently fighting cancer.  He wanted to visit with hospital staff and to brighten the day of some of his friends that are still in the hospital, as well as any other children that have come in since he was able to leave the hospital.

The Chino Valley Fire Foundation provided $1,300 for foundation members and firefighters to purchase several toys, art supplies, sports equipment, electronic devices and gift cards that were distributed on Dec. 22. Items were delivered to dozens of children that morning.  The smiles on their faces were priceless.

The Chino Valley Fire Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting life, safety, and welfare of the public through educational programs, direct assistance, and financial support of charitable organizations, victims of tragic events, and injured firefighters.

Social Media Leads to Arrest of Chino Burglar

Staff Reports

CHINO– Social media helped Chino Police catch an accused burglar on Tuesday, Dec. 15.
Yvess Emmanuel Ibarra-Vega, 20, of Pomona, was arrested and charged in a series of robberies – including two that occurred at Doublz restaurant in Chino.
On Nov. 11 and Dec. 3, Doublz restaurant, located at 4750 Riverside Drive, was robbed by an unknown male armed with a handgun.
On Dec. 14, Chino Police posted surveillance footage of the suspect on Facebook in hopes of getting the word out about a robbery that occurred at Doublz.

Pomona police officers contacted Ibarra-Vega on Dec. 15 based on several leads related to a string of seven armed robberies in Pomona. According to detectives, information was received that the suspect was possibly linked to the Chino robberies. The information provided to Pomona police officers was the Chino police department’s Facebook post requesting assistance in identifying the suspect.

While in custody, Ibarra-Vega confessed to the Doublz robberies in Chino. Ibarra-Vega is in custody at a Los Angeles County jail facility on multiple robbery charges.

Epoh Sushi is Fresh and Affordable

Epoh Sushi is located at 5536 Philadelphia St., Suite D, Chino 91710, and can be reached at (909) 627-8862 or www.epohsushi.com.

Epoh Sushi is located at 5536 Philadelphia St., Suite D, Chino 91710, and can be reached at (909) 627-8862 or http://www.epohsushi.com.

By Michael Armijo

Chino – As a sushi connoisseur, I am very particular when it comes to sushi. I’ve had some bad experiences, so I was pleasantly surprised when a group of us went into Epoh Sushi in the Chino Town Center on Philadelphia near Central Ave.

“I recommended this place because of the freshness and the quality of the fish” said fellow connoisseur, Ben Cortes. “And the specials are great, especially the lunch specials.”

Since there was a group of us, we all ordered a dish and shared, so I was able to sample several items.

The albacore sushi was tender and fresh. It had a delicate flavor that you could savor. The soup, called Sukiyaki, was a smorgasbord of several kinds of fish that created a delicious blend of flavor that lit up your taste buds. The “half and half” chicken and beef bowl, which featured chunks of beef instead of the traditional shredded beef, boasted with tender and seasoned cuts that melted in your mouth. And the surprising part was the rice. I am not a “rice guy,” but it was flavorful and soft, but not mushy. I even took the leftover rice home, something I’ve never done with rice before.

One of my new, all time favorites has to be the Yellowtail Collar. It was baked, crispy on the bottom, and meaty. The Collar was just delicious.

They have daily lunch specials, and their dinner prices are reasonable as well. The lunch specials range from $7.95 to $9.95. From the sushi bar, specials run from $10.95 to $12. And the Rice Bowls run from $6.95 to $11. For dinner, the entrees and the specials start out at $16. For a complete menu with prices you can sign onto http://www.epohsushi.com.

They also have a unique program called a “”membership.” It costs nothing, all you do is fill out a card and supply your email. The membership includes a 10% off each visit discount and you get a free meal on your birthday! I signed up as my birthday is in January, so I’ll be celebrating it there!

I could go on and rave about the food but we all know price is always a factor. I used to believe “you get what you pay for” but Epoh Sushi gave me more for my dollar, and for my taste buds.

Epoh Sushi, 5536 Philadelphia St, Suite D, Chino, CA 91710, (909) 627-8862. www.epohsushi.com.  Open Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

 

Chino’s Welcomes Christmas at Annual Parade

Photo by: Monique Valadez Chino High School Marching Band brings holiday cheer to Chino's Youth Christmas Parade.

Photo by: Monique Valadez
Chino High School Marching Band brings holiday cheer to Chino’s Youth Christmas Parade.

By Monique Valadez

 

CHINO – Thousands of early risers lined the city streets to celebrate the official arrival of Christmas in Chino with the annual youth Christmas parade Saturday, complete with school marching bands, hot rods carrying elected officials, decked-out floats and Santa Claus. More than 90 floats and hundreds of festive walkers and troops joined in the annual “A Christmas in Toyland” themed parade, which travels from along Riverside Drive and then right on Central Avenue to end at City Hall.

Local youth sports volunteer Dawn Jerry served as this year’s grand marshal and was recognized by the city council as the 2015 Chino Sports Legends Award recipient earlier this month.

“I’ve walked and participated in Chino’s parade for many years and now to be honored at the parade is the cherry on top,” Jerry said. “I have had the honor and privilege to coach a lot of kids in Chino.”

“It’s people like Dawn that make Chino so special and unique,” said Mayor Dennis Yates. “Her tireless work with our kids solidifies why Chino has received the “100 Best Communities for Young People” multiple times.”

Also in the parade were representatives from the church community, including Our Lady of Guadalupe Church.
“We felt it was important for us to join in the parade since our church was one of the first churches in Chino. The parade just brings the whole community together,” Rev. Edmund Gomez of Chino’s Our Lady of Guadalupe Church said. “It’s a longstanding tradition in Chino even the church community participates in the parade.”

Photo by: Monique Valadez Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez cruises in a Ford Model T at Chino's Christmas Parade.

Photo by: Monique Valadez
Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez cruises in a Ford Model T at Chino’s Christmas Parade.

Rounding out the field of entries were units and representatives from dance schools and activity centers, local businesses, nonprofits, civic groups and community organizations.

Politicians, including Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez, San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman and Senator Connie Leyva, cruised in the parade as well.

“It’s a good way to spread good cheer throughout the community,” said Pomona’s Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez, as he hopped inside the vintage Ford car to roll down the parade route.

The parade was followed by the annual craft fair at the city’s civic center plaza. The fair included carnival rides, community performances, a vendor area, food, children activities and of course, a special visit from Santa.

Photo By: Monique Valadez Ben Midlik and Adam Valadez from Pack #205 get ready to march.

Photo By: Monique Valadez
Ben Midlik and Adam Valadez from Pack #205 get ready to march.

Talking To Children About Violence

Tips for Parents and Teachers

Courtesy of CVUSD

 

Chino Valley – The horrific event in San Bernardino and recent threats at Los Angeles County Unified School District are tragic reminders that elected officials, law enforcement, schools, and parents must ensure it is doing all that it can to prevent violence in the community, at schools and the workplace.

According to the National Association of School Psychologists, these acts of violence can frighten and confuse children. They look to adults for information and guidance on how to react. Parents and school personnel can help children feel safe by establishing a sense of normalcy and security and talking with them about their fears, the association said.

They offer the following tips for Parents and Teachers:

  1. Reassure children that they are safe. Emphasize that schools are very safe. Validate their feelings. Explain that all feelings are okay when a tragedy occurs. Let children talk about their feelings, help put them into perspective, and assist them in expressing these feelings appropriately.
  2. Make time to talk. Let their questions be your guide as to how much information to provide. Be patient. Children and youth do not always talk about their feelings readily. Watch for clues that they may want to talk, such as hovering around while you do the dishes or yard work. Some children prefer writing, playing music, or doing an art project as an outlet. Young children may need concrete activities (such as drawing, looking at picture books, or imaginative play) to help them identify and express their feelings.
  3. Keep your explanations developmentally appropriate.
  • Early elementary school children need brief, simple information that should be balanced with reassurances that their school and homes are safe and that adults are there to protect them. Give simple examples of school safety like reminding children about exterior doors being locked, child monitoring efforts on the playground, and emergency drills practiced during the school day.
  • Upper elementary and early middle school children will be more vocal in asking questions about whether they truly are safe and what is being done at their school. They may need assistance separating reality from fantasy. Discuss efforts of school and community leaders to provide safe schools.
  • Upper middle school and high school students will have strong and varying opinions about the causes of violence in schools and society. They will share concrete suggestions about how to make school safer and how to prevent tragedies in society. Emphasize the role that students have in maintaining safe schools by following school safety guidelines (e.g. not providing building access to strangers, reporting strangers on campus, reporting threats to the school safety made by students or community members, etc.), communicating any personal safety concerns to school administrators, and accessing support for emotional needs.
  1. Review safety procedures. This should include procedures and safeguards at school and at home. Help children identify at least one adult at school and in the community to whom they go if they feel threatened or at risk.

Santa and Police Officers Visit Chino Neighborhoods

Photo by Jeannette Garcia Santa’s Sleigh takes time out of his busy schedule to visit Chino neighborhoods thanks to the city’s Police Officer’s Association.

Photo by Jeannette Garcia
Santa’s Sleigh takes time out of his busy schedule to visit Chino neighborhoods thanks to the city’s Police Officer’s Association.

By Monique Valadez

CHINO – Chino Police Officers are once again escorting Santa with his sleigh to visit several Chino neighborhoods through Christmas Eve.

“The program gives youth the opportunity to experience the magic of Christmas,” officers said. The annual program is provided by the Chino Police Officer’s Association.

Santa will stop and spend time with all families, so all good boys and girls can visit him and get a candy cane too. Families will have the opportunity to take pictures with Santa, interact with police officers, and visit with Santa’s helpers.

Santa’s routes start at 5:30 p.m. each night, except Sundays and Mondays, through Dec. 24, and are as follows:

  • 12/12: 5:30 to 8 p.m. at neighborhood between Magnolia and Benson Avenue, near “C” (north of Chino)
  • 12/17: 5:30-8 p.m. at neighborhood between Monte Vista and Benson Avenue, near “C”
  • 12 /18: 5:30 to 8 p.m. at 6351 Riverside Drive, 6571 Schaefer Ave., 6776 Chino Ave.
  • 12/19: 5: 30 to 8 p.m. at neighborhood north of Jefferson Ave., Neighborhood north of Williamsburg
  • 12/22: 5: 30 to 8 p.m. at 5225 Francis, 12379 Sycamore Ave., 12250 Carissa Ave.
  • 12/23: 5: 30 to 8 p.m. at 11401/11405/11435 Central Ave., 11838 Central Ave., 11902 Central Ave., Seneca Village
  • 12/24: 5: 30 to 8:00 p.m. at neighborhood between Benson Avenue and Oaks Avenue, north of Riverside Drive

Chino: Pups In Training at Don Lugo High

Photo Courtesy: CVUSD Don Lugo High School students take time out of puppy rearing for a holiday photo.

Photo Courtesy: CVUSD
Don Lugo High School students take time out of puppy rearing for a holiday photo.

Courtesy of CVUSD

Chino– Don Lugo High Future Farmers of America students are raising five puppies for the Guide Dogs for the Blind organization.

The new pups – Zedrick, Zee, Waldorf, Baloo, and Frito – will be trained in basic obedience and socialization until they are about 14 to 17 months old. Then they will be returned to Guide Dogs for the Blind for further training.

Training the dogs will be Don Lugo FFA students Abigayle Monroe, Stephen Ryan, Sarah Aispuro, Emily Sevilla, and Viviana Jara. Don Lugo FFA member Lizette DePaz is the school’s Puppy Raising Campus Volunteer.

Last fall, Don Lugo agriculture teacher Ashley Doyle said she would like her students to raise puppies for the Guide Dogs for the Blind program.

“These little ones will be spending their first few weeks down in the Agriculture science lab,” Principal Kimberly Cabrera said of the young canines.

Don Lugo students Melissa Legg and Brianna Cabrera, Principal Cabrera’s daughter, are finishing their training of pups Quest and Quinn for the program. As individual trainers, Melissa and Brianna received their pups in January.

Don Lugo teacher Audrey Rohrer, who has trained several Guide Dog puppies and included them in her classes for socialization, is currently training puppy Paddington.

“They will have the puppies 24/7 for about 14 months,” said Ron Chrisman of Guide Dogs for the Blind. “During that time students, in addition to providing housing and obedience training, will teach the pups how to behave appropriately in public. When the pups are 14 to 17 months old, they are recalled to our San Rafael, California or Boring, Oregon campus to begin formal harness training. Our professional trainers will teach the dogs how to guide a blind or sight impaired person. Our job as Raisers is to prepare the pup to receive that training. When the dog successfully completes training, it is matched with his or her future partner. The Puppy Raiser is invited to attend a graduation ceremony where they meet their pup’s blind partner, and officially present the new guide dog.”

Chrisman said the dogs are placed all over the United States and Canada, and sometimes internationally. He also said guide dogs are placed at no cost to their sight impaired partners.

For more information on the program, visit http://www.guidedogs.com.

Motor Officer Hurt in Chino Crash

Staff Reports

CHINO – A Chino motor officer suffered serious but non-life-threatening injuries in a collision Monday (Nov. 30) afternoon, authorities said.
The officer collided with a Chevrolet Silverado on Central Avenue near the westbound off-ramp to the 60 freeway while responding to an emergency call at approximately 2:01 p.m., a police statement says. The officer — identified as Nicholas Mutrux, is a 10 year veteran of the Chino police department.
Police officials said that Mutrux suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to a local hospital. He is in stable condition and is expected to make a full recovery. The solo occupant of the Chevrolet Silverado, did not suffer any injuries.
The police report said that the California Highway Patrol is leading the investigation into the traffic collision.
“The level of support from the community has truly been amazing,” Chino Chief Karen Comstock said. “Our personnel are like family; when one experiences tragedy, we are all impacted greatly. Knowing we have the prayers and support of the community and fellow agencies truly keeps us strong moving forward.”

Epoh Sushi Is Fresh and Affordable

Epoh Sushi is located at 5536 Philadelphia St., Suite D, Chino 91710, and can be reached at (909) 627-8862 or www.epohsushi.com.

Epoh Sushi is located at 5536 Philadelphia St., Suite D, Chino 91710, and can be reached at (909) 627-8862 or http://www.epohsushi.com.

By Michael Armijo

Chino – As a sushi connoisseur, I am very particular when it comes to sushi. I’ve had some bad experiences, so I was pleasantly surprised when a group of us went into Epoh Sushi in the Chino Town Center on Philadelphia near Central Ave.

“I recommended this place because of the freshness and the quality of the fish” said fellow connoisseur, Ben Cortes. “And the specials are great, especially the lunch specials.”

Since there was a group of us, we all ordered a dish and shared, so I was able to sample several items.

The albacore sushi was tender and fresh. It had a delicate flavor that you could savor. The soup, called Sukiyaki, was a smorgasbord of several kinds of fish that created a delicious blend of flavor that lit up your taste buds. The “half and half” chicken and beef bowl, which featured chunks of beef instead of the traditional shredded beef, boasted with tender and seasoned cuts that melted in your mouth. And the surprising part was the rice. I am not a “rice guy,” but it was flavorful and soft, but not mushy. I even took the leftover rice home, something I’ve never done with rice before.

One of my new, all time favorites has to be the Yellowtail Collar. It was baked, crispy on the bottom, and meaty. The Collar was just delicious.

They have daily lunch specials, and their dinner prices are reasonable as well. The lunch specials range from $7.95 to $9.95. From the sushi bar, specials run from $10.95 to $12. And the Rice Bowls run from $6.95 to $11. For dinner, the entrees and the specials start out at $16. For a complete menu with prices you can sign onto http://www.epohsushi.com.

They also have a unique program called a “”membership.” It costs nothing, all you do is fill out a card and supply your email. The membership includes a 10% off each visit discount and you get a free meal on your birthday! I signed up as my birthday is in January, so I’ll be celebrating it there!

I could go on and rave about the food but we all know price is always a factor. I used to believe “you get what you pay for” but Epoh Sushi gave me more for my dollar, and for my taste buds.

Epoh Sushi, 5536 Philadelphia St, Suite D, Chino, CA 91710, (909) 627-8862. www.epohsushi.com.  Open Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Senator Hosts Turkey Giveaway

Courtesy of Senator Connie Leyva District 20

Courtesy of Senator Connie Leyva District 20
Leyva provides turkey dinner to over 175 local families on Nov. 24.

Staff Reports

CHINO – Hundreds of local needy families enjoyed a delicious turkey dinner on Thanksgiving Day thanks to Senator Connie M. Leyva (D-Chino).
On Tuesday, Nov. 24, Leyva, in partnership with the Stater Bros. Markets and Fontana Water Company, hosted her inaugural Operation Gobble turkey giveaway at her district offices in Chino and Fontana.
Leyva understands that buying the traditional bird and all the fixings can be a burden for many families.
“Times are still tough for too many families in the Inland Empire, so I am pleased that we are able to provide these turkeys, canned goods and other Thanksgiving fixings as we kick off this holiday season. I thank my community partners for sharing in the spirit of giving to ensure that 175 more families will have a home-cooked meal on Thanksgiving Day.”
Leyva provided plump turkeys and meals to over 175 local families and non-profit organizations that assist individuals.
Additionally, Leyva provided holiday meals to local nonprofits including Isaiah’s Rock in Chino and Time for Change Foundation in Rialto/San Bernardino that provide meals throughout the year to homeless and underserved individuals and families in the her district.
“I am very excited to collaborate with the Fontana Water Company and Stater Bros. Markets on this opportunity to lend a helping hand to families in my district who are struggling to make ends meet,” Leyva added.