Tag Archives: walnut

Motion Detector Cameras Deter Crime

On this Thursday, June 25, 2015 photo, a computer terminal displays a single vehicle’s license plate number, captured in multiple locations by Automated License Plate Readers (ALPR) cameras at the city’s Emergency Operations Center in Long Beach, Calif. Police nationwide are buying access into expansive databases run by private companies whose repo men and tow-truckers photograph license plates on vehicles every day, raising concerns among civil libertarians and some lawmakers about the lack of protections against abuse. (AP Photo/Damian Dovarganes)

By Marissa Mitchell

Walnut, CA – A week  ago the City of Walnut announced that they would begin their “License Plate Camera Pilot Program.” The city will begin installing motion detector cameras to ward off crime in the community by catching criminal activity with exactitude. Via coordination with the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department, Walnut city staff has identified locations for the cameras. In some of those locations, a separate pole will be placed to support camera installation. Residents voiced their concerns to the City of Walnut about the rise in criminal activity, and the city responded. Thus far, the city has promised to install ten (10) motional detection cameras that will take photographs of vehicle license plates, so as to more easily catch criminals right after or during the act of crime. These cameras will only take the pictures of license plate numbers, not persons. The date will be released to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department or the appropriate law enforcement agency investigating a committed crime. All cameras and their data will be monitored and maintained by the City of Walnut. The cameras store their data directly onto memory cards rather than a database; unlick the “typical” Automated License Plate recognition. This form of memory storage allows for increased area and time specificity. This memory-card data will be stored sixty (60) days, after which they will be recycled and recorded over, unless requested. The City of Walnut hope to enhance the safety of its residents as well as build civic pride by installing these more advanced cameras for criminal monitoring. It is hope that the motion detector cameras will help aid in crime decrease throughout the city.

Walnut Helps Homeowners

By Anthony Saude

Walnut – The City of Walnut is offering grants and loans to the owners of single family detached dwellings to eligible low to moderate-income occupants living in Walnut. The Housing Rehabilitation Program will be able to assist these homeowners with funding for home improvements that focus on safe and sanitary housing. The funds are made available to correct dangerous structural conditions, eliminate blight, correct code violations and even provide handicapped access. The program will provide grants of up to $7500 and deferred loans at zero percent interest up to $30,000 to eligible homeowners. The grants are designed to help the homeowner with Code issues that need to be fixed in addition to any of the other improvements the homeowner requested and do not need to be repaid. The loans are no interest loans and repayment is deferred until the property changes title or is refinanced. The program is offered on a first come first serve basis to eligible homeowners. The limited funding is provided by the Federal Community Development Block Grant Program is offered to applicants whose annual income doesn’t exceed the Housing and Community Development and HUD established limits. If you think you might qualify CALL and find out for sure, what is the worst that can happen all they can say is no.

Proof of income, a copy of a recent tax bill, proof of property insurance and ID will be required. For more information click on the links below or contact the Community Development Department at 909-595-7543.

Walnut High Celebrates New Tennis Courts

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT, CA— Walnut High students, teachers, staff, and district officials recently gathered during a tennis court grand reopening celebration.Over the summer, the courts were resurfaced, and playing surfaces painted a blue hue – the signature color of the U.S. Open – with grey around the outside. The project also included installation of new fencing with wind screens, nets, sound system, and lighting.  Players and coaches said they were ready to kick off the new season in the upgraded facility at the August 29 ceremony. “This is going to get my kids fired up to play some even better tennis!” said head coach Lee Shiomoto, who has been a part of the program for 15 years. “It’s been exciting to see the courts get resurfaced,” said senior Lauren Ao, who said her team members now feel proud to host other schools during tournaments.“It was really run-down, and now the courts are nice and clean!” added senior Sara Santos.The boys and girls tennis programs have a winning tradition, clinching numerous all-league awards, league championships, and an undefeated season last fall. Last year, the girls team competed in the CIF finals, and doubles players Santos and Vivian Lee earned their second consecutive Hacienda League MVP honor.

Community Events September – November

Kids’ Night Out
Walnut Teen Center
6:00 pm to 11:00 pm
Third Saturday of every month

 

Diamond Bar Restaurant Week 

A 14-day dining event that will take place Friday, October 6 – Friday, October 20, 2017.

The event showcases Diamond Bar as a premier dining destination offering diners a wide variety of culinary experiences. Participating restaurants offer special prix-fixe menus with breakfast, lunch and dinner specials available.

 

Walnut Family Fun Festival

The City of Walnut and the volunteer Festival Committee invite you to join us as we celebrate all that makes Walnut Special!

Saturday, October 7, 2017

Suzanne Park – 625 Suzanne Rd, Walnut CA

http://www.cityofwalnut.org/for-residents/city-events/walnut-family-festival

 

Chino Hills Wine Walk

October 14, 2017

Presented by the Chino Hills Community Foundation

Please join the Chino Hills Community Foundation at the Shoppes at Chino Hills as they swirl, sip, and shop while raising money for a great cause in 2017!
 

Burglary Suspects Caught On Video

Photo courtesy: LA County Sheriff’s Department

Police Need Your Help To ID

Staff Reports

Walnut – It was approximately 8:50 pm on a Monday on Spur Trail Avenue in Walnut when a burglary occurred. The sound of shattering glass came from somewhere upstairs. Somebody was breaking in the yelled out so they knew somebody was home, the suspects were startled and jumped from the second story roof fleeing from the location and out of view. Sergeant Dail of the Walnut/Diamond Bar Station Detective Bureau was contacted and said that “nobody has been arrested at this time”. During the investigation a video was obtained and these pictures have now been released. Sergeant Dail said, “we are releasing these pictures because we are looking for help to ID these suspects”. The suspects are described as two male blacks in their early 20’s, they were wearing sweat suit outfits with hoodies.

California Penal Code 459 PC (burglary) is a felony and the potential consequences include a sentence of two, four or six year prison terms.

Penal Code 459 PC reads “Every person who enters any house, room, apartment, tenement, shop, warehouse, store, mill, barn, stable, outhouse or other building, tent, vessel …with intent to commit grand or petit larceny or any felony is guilty of burglary.

California first-degree (residential) burglary is a felony. The potential consequences include a state prison sentence of two (2), four (4) or six (6) years.4 Penal Code 459 PC reads : “Every person who enters any house, room, apartment, tenement, shop, warehouse, store, mill, barn, stable, outhouse or other building, tent, vessel…with intent to commit grand or petit larceny or any felony is guilty of burglary.”1

Any information regarding the above incident/suspects, please contact
DETECTIVE Alfredo Gomez (909) 859-2823
Walnut/Diamond Bar Station Detective Bureau 21695 E. Valley Blvd., Walnut, 91789
(909) 595-2264
File Number: 17-04746-29

Address/Location

Under Penal Code 21a PC, you could be convicted of an attempted crime in the California criminal court process if both of the following are true:

  1. You specifically intended to commit a certain crime; and
  2. You performed a direct (but ineffective) act toward committing that crime.1

Many people are surprised to learn that they can be convicted of “attempt” even if they changed their minds about committing the crime and voluntarily abandoned further efforts to complete it.2

As a general matter, if you are convicted of an attempted crime in California, you will face a prison/jail sentence that is half as long as the sentence you would have received if you had been convicted of the underlying offense.3

This is true regardless of whether you are convicted of an attempted California misdemeanor or an attempted California felony.4

California robbery in the first degree is any robbery where any of the following is true:

  1. The victim is a driver or passenger of a bus, taxi, cable car, streetcar, trackless trolley, subway, or other similar transportation for hire;
  2. The robbery takes place in an inhabited house, boat, or trailer; or
  3. The robbery takes place while or immediately after the victim uses an ATM.23

A house or structure is “inhabited” if someone lives there and either is present, or has left but intends to return.24

First-degree robbery in California is punished as a felony. The potential sentence and other consequences include:

  • Felony (formal) probation;
  • Three (3), four (4) or six (6) years in California state prison; and/or
  • A fine of up to ten thousand dollars ($10,000).25

BUT, if you commit first-degree robbery in an inhabited structure, in concert with two (2) or more other people, then the potential state prison sentence for PC 211 robbery increases to three (3), six (6) or nine (9) years.26

2.2. What are the penalties for second-degree robbery in California?

California robbery in the second degree is defined by the California Penal Code as any robbery that does not meet the definition of first-degree robbery.27

Robbery in the second degree is punished by the following felony penalties:

  • Felony probation;
  • Two (2), three (3) or five (5) years in state prison; and/or
  • A fine of up to ten thousand dollars ($10,000).28

 

Suspect Arrested for Carrying a Loaded Firearm and Impersonating His Brother

Photo courtesy: Google Images

By Staff Reports

 

A vehicle that was impeding traffic was spotted by the California Highway Patrol on a routine patrol on Fairway Dr. and the 60 Freeway at 8:18 am on August, 24, 2017. Officers stopped the vehicle and upon contact with the driver, noticed a handgun holstered on the suspect’s hip. The suspect claimed that he was a security guard. 

The suspect has been identified as Alejandro Raygoza, a 25 year old of the City of La Verne. Raygoza could face up to 1 year in county jail.

Reygoza provided an ID which he claimed was his, but deputies discovered upon questioning that the ID was actually the suspects brother’s. The suspect was not licensed to carry firearms.

The driver was arrested for carrying a loaded firearm and search of the vehicle yielded two loaded handguns, one shotgun, an expandable baton, pepper spray, four magazines, and a security guard badge.

Bail was set at $35,000 but with the help of a bail reduction personnel, the suspect was able to convince the commissioner to authorize a bail reduction to $25,000.

Raygoza paid the bail via bail bond and was released on the same day, August 24, at 11:45pm. Raygoza will be arraigned at Pomona Superior Court on October 24, 2017. 

C.J. Morris Elementary Collects Supplies For Hurricane Victims

By WVUSD

WALNUT, CA—After watching news coverage of the devastating floods caused by Hurricane Harvey last week, C.J. Morris Elementary has stepped up to the plate to help victims in Texas.

The school’s leadership group quickly teamed up with the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim who will be sending a truck with supplies on September 7.

Fourth grader Malia McBride and fifth grader Sofia Rodriguez recorded a message sent to parents Friday detailing a two-day collection drive of items including diapers, tooth brushes, batteries, flashlights, and cleaning supplies.

“We knew we had to do something,” shared Principal Shehzad Bhojani, following up with his own reminder message after the Labor Day weekend.

“Tomorrow is the last day to send supplies, let’s show Texas how much we care!” he said.

The group of ten student leaders collected donations in three boxes before school on Tuesday and Wednesday in front of the Walnut campus.

“Everyone was so generous, there were piles of supplies!” exclaimed McBride.

“The donations just kept coming! We had a mountain of toothpaste and toothbrushes,” said 4th grader Kailyn Park.

“The boxes were literally overflowing,” said added 5th grader Izabella Robles who said the students made several trips to the school’s Annex to empty the boxes each morning.

“I hope these donations will help them get their life back on track,” she added.

Along with the supplies, the school wanted to send something special to lift the spirits of the children in Houston.

Children in every classroom, over 500 in total, colored rainbow cards and wrote personal words of encouragement.

“I send you all my hopes, wishes, and prayers. Don’t worry everything will turn out fine because I’m sure the water will dry up,” Rodriguez penned.

“God is with you,” wrote Jasmine Torres.

The last step was attaching a bag of Skittles candy to each card that read: After every storm comes a rainbow. Sending all our love to Texas.

Teachers Carole Meade, Monica Power, and counselor Lorena Chavez advise the 4th and 5th grade leadership group.

“We are overwhelmed, truly, by our generous C.J. Morris community,” said Mead after receiving the final donations Wednesday.

“They were walking up with just bags and bags!”

“Slap Tag” Vandal Arrested

Photo courtesy: Google Images
“Slap Tagging” is a new trend that makes vandalism quick and easy for taggers.

By Anthony Saude

Walnut/Diamond Bar – On August 23rd, Deputies from the Walnut / Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station arrested a 23 year old man for possession of vandalism/graffiti tools. The tools of the trade today are nothing more than a blank postal label decorated with graffiti. It is called a “slap tag” they are commonly used by taggers/graffiti artists to quickly vandalize public or private property with less of a chance of being caught. They decorate dozens of them before they hit the streets and then all they have to do is peel and stick.
A message for parents:  Above is an example of a “slap tag”. The mere possession of these items is a crime, and could land someone in jail.  The second image is an example of common “tagger” items.

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Parents, please it is important to become familiar with these items and make sure your son/daughter doesn’t have any similar items. If you do find these items please destroy them immediately and explain the dangers this can cause to your child. The fine could be the least of their worries; an encounter with an angry property owner could lead to criminal charges for either. To the taggers/graffiti artists; just think about somebody other than yourselves and go to an art gallery if you are that talented.

 

 

 

WVUSD Students Experience Great American Eclipse

Celestial Celebration!

 

By WVUSD

WALNUT, CA–Wearing protective ISO glasses, 10-year-old Eli Gerhardt peered outdside his classroom window at just after 9 a.m. on Monday morning.

The Great American Eclipse was already happening.

“It looks like the moon took a bite out of the sun!” the Walnut Elementary fifth grader exclaimed as the moon began casting its shadow.

“This is amazing!”

Then, a few at a time, his classmates took turns viewing their first solar eclipse.

“I saw the sun and the moon was covering it a little,” said Chloe Lam.

“I’ve been excited to see the eclipse!” she added.

“The solar flares happen when the moon is covering the sun – there are orange flames,” explained classmate Giselle Quintanilla.

From Oregon to South Carolina, the total solar eclipse darkened skies across the continental U.S. for the first time in 99 years.

Although her class stayed inside due to safety concerns, Vejar kindergarten teacher Lisa Gomez made the “big event” memorable with crafts and fun lunar snacks including mini “Moon” pancakes, Sun Chips, and Sunny Delight.

Many classrooms also watched the historic event during a live NASA broadcast.

South Pointe Middle School received a generous donation of 300 eclipse glasses from Mt. San Antonio College.

“All our 6th,7th, and 8th graders will get a chance to see the moon pass in front of the sun this morning,” said science teacher Tom Woodward.

“We talked about safety on Friday. I told them never to look at the sun without the glasses,” he shared.

Students watched an astronomy video and took a 10-question quiz moments before going outside.

“Which eclipse are we seeing today, lunar or solar?” he asked the 6th graders.

“Solar!” they replied.

“Tomorrow we’ll talk about the difference,” the teacher promised.

Beginning at 10:05 a.m., each grade level, about 900 students in total, rotated outside for viewing parties.

“It looks like a crescent moon, but it’s the sun!” exclaimed sixth grader Emily Lee.

“My students were in awe,” shared Diamond Bar High physics teacher Angela Jensvold after the morning’s celestial celebration.

“Students were running to come to class in order not to miss a minute,” she said.

“We observed the sharpness of our shadows and crescent shaped images of the sun in the dappled shade of trees.”

Most of her students used ISO glasses, while some made their own eclipse viewers decorated with kittens and turtles.

“Even though I didn’t give them any extra credit!” Jensvold added.

At Walnut High, chemistry teacher Jeri Burnside bought a class set of 35 certified eclipse glasses over the summer.

“We got a chance to use our ISO glasses to see the sun at maximum coverage for our viewing area, about 67% at 10:21 a.m.,” she said.

“We saw the daylight around us fading and felt the temperature cooling as over half the solar energy was blocked.”

Burnside told students that the next total solar eclipse in the U.S. will occur in 2024, and that there is only one town, Carbondale, Illinois, that will actually be in the path of totality.

“My students will be around 22 to 23 years-old then, so hopefully they will be able to travel to see a total eclipse if they so desire!”

Back to School Time: Classes Begin in Walnut Valley

By Kelli Gile

 

WALNUT, CA—On Monday morning, backpacks, books, and school bus rides, signaled the end of summer vacation in Walnut Valley Unified School District.

About 14,300 students in transitional kindergarten through high school arrived on campuses to begin the 2017-2018 school year.

At Maple Hill Elementary, third grade teacher Lisa Peterson threw a Happy New School Year party for her class.

During the summer, she mailed the children invitations to the unique first-day bash, complete with instructions to bring their “enthusiasm and love for learning.”

Students found party hats, noisemakers, and colorful leis on desks when they arrived in the new classroom.

After enjoying mini muffins, apples with caramel dipping sauce, strawberries, and Capri Sun drinks, (because every party needs refreshments!), the class gathered under a giant balloon drop bag and began a traditional New Year countdown.

“10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1!” they chimed in union.
Then as 100 balloons magically floated down from above, the children began blowing their horns and shouting “Happy New School Year!”

“I wanted the day to be more than just rules and procedures. When my students’ parents ask about their first day, I want them to be able to tell them that it was the best day ever!” Peterson shared.

“It was great! thought it was just going to be studying, but we had treats,” 3rd grader Luna Sun commented about the surprise party.

“It’s something I hope they will remember for years to come,” added Peterson.

“Making an ordinary day extraordinary is what it’s all about!”

At Quail Summit Elementary, teachers and staff welcomed students with high-fives and hugs as they paraded onto the Diamond Bar campus.

“The energy coming into Quail Summit was felt by both staff and students as they started the new school year,” said new Principal Frances Weissenberger.

“What a joyful way to welcome our students and families!” added second grade teacher Kathy McLean.

At Collegewood Elementary in Walnut, teacher Kim Horn helped her students begin making lasting connections.

During a Just Like Me activity, each 4th grader received a small tub of Playdoh with instructions to create something they like to do.

The youngsters molded beach scenes, ice cream cones, soccer balls, motorcycles, and more.

As students took turns sharing their interests, classmates who liked to do the same things stood up and said “just like me!”

“The goal of the project is to start building community so that the kids understand that they have lots in common with their classmates,” Horn said.

“It is also fun and a way to lower the kid’s stress on the first day of school!”

Chaparral Middle School 29-year veteran-educator Gary Imai plans to engage his social studies classes by offering numerous hands-on manipulatives.

“It makes the learning more interesting than just reading from a textbook,” he offered.

Imai, who taught 7th graders for over a decade, will be working with 6th grade students again this year.

He’ll kick off with Ancient History lessons and students will soon be digging through sand to hunt for “fossils.”

During the summer, Imai found some old teaching treasures while rummaging through his attic.

“I thought, I can still use these because history doesn’t change!” he quipped.

Over 50 new educators were hired for the new school year, including Walnut High School environmental science teacher Alyssia Infante.

“It was exciting and a lot of fun meeting my students and working with the amazing staff on campus,” she offered.

Infante, the daughter of a Walnut Valley educator, chose to pursue teaching so she could share her passion for science with students.

Her most memorable moment on the first day was arriving on campus and being greeted by the teens she worked with as a student teacher.

“They all wished me a good luck and were eager to look at my classroom and tell me about their summer!” she said.

“I am looking forward to a wonderful first year!”

Jonathon Chung, a new 7th grade Language Arts teacher at Chaparral, also stepped in front of his first class on Monday.

“I was too used to substitute teaching and informing the students that I would be their teacher for the day.  To get up there and tell them I would be their teacher for the rest of the semester was kind of a, ‘No duh,’ moment for a lot of them,” he said.

Chung hails from a family of Walnut Valley educators and said he has always taken great pride in the work they have done.

He also applauds the entire Chaparral staff for “popping in” to offer their help while he was setting up his classroom.

“It is a very friendly and caring staff and I am fortunate to be able to work at this wonderful campus.”

After a morning recess at Collegewood Elementary, Jayne Knight’s kindergartners were sitting crisscross applesauce-style on the carpet as she delivered rules for being good listeners.

The wiggly youngsters immediately began raising their hands to ask some pressing first day questions.

“Can I get a drink of water?”  “Do we have to take a nap after lunch?” “Do we have to come back tomorrow?”

Yes, and just 179 days to go. Welcome back and have a wonderful school year!

 

Former Mayor’s Wife Killed In Car Collision

By Mireya De La Paz

Walnut – A 49 year-old woman, Tiffany Chiali Yi Ching, died after crashing into a big rig off the 60 freeway East of Santa Anita Avenue in South El Monte last week. She was later identified as former Walnut Mayor Eric Ching.

Ching was elected as a member of Walnut city council in April of 2012, and he was appointed as Mayor Pro Tem in July 2014.  On July 13, 2016 he Was appointed as Mayor of the City of Walnut.

The trailer tractor had been stopped on the right side of the shoulder of the freeway due to a vehicle breakdown. According to Officer J. Calder of the CHP’s East Los Angeles-area office “(The BMW driver) made a turning movement to the right toward the Santa Anita Avenue off ramp,” he said. “The BMW struck the right, rear corner of the stopped commercial trailer, continued in a westerly direction, collided a second time into the commercial trailer and the redirected to the north and came to rest on the right shoulder of the off ramp.”

After running an autopsy, the driver had suffered from traumatic injuries and they pronounced her dead at 1:54 pm. The speed at which Ching was driving was unknown but the incident was a ruled accident and did not involve any drugs or alcohol. The big rig driver did not suffer from any injuries.

Safe Drug Disposal

By Walnut/DB Sheriff’s Station
Do not flush unused, unwanted, and expired medications down the toilet or put them in drains!

How should I dispose of my medications?

For your convenience, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department offers a Safe Drug Drop Off program where both controlled and non-controlled substances are accepted. Take medications/drugs to the Walnut Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station for safe and anonymous disposal. The mailboxes on the front steps of the Walnut Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station are designated for anonymous drop-off of all types of drugs.

You can also return your medications to a pharmacy near you. Some pharmacies offer take-back and/or mail-back programs.

What kind of medications/drugs can be dropped off?

Prescription medications
Illegal drugs
Over-the-counter medications
Aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.
Cold/flu remedies
Birth control pills
Hormone replacement drugs
Veterinary medicines
Codeine, phenobarbital, and anabolic steroids, narcotics, tranquilizers, etc

Why is this important?

Medications flushed down the toilet or in drains pass through the sewer system and eventually enter our streams, lakes, and rivers. Medicines and synthetic hormones have been detected in trace amounts in bodies of water. This could lead to increased bacterial resistance to antibiotics and interference with growth and reproduction in aquatic organisms such as fish, frogs and all marine life.

The presence of medications in the environment is a complex issue and the risk to humans and the environment is still being determined. With tens of thousands of medicinal products on the market and more being developed each year, the long-term risks have not been determined on the effects on the environment. However, in order to minimize the potential negative and irreversible impacts, it is important that we limit the disposal of waste medications to the sewer.

(Some excerpts taken from Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Environmental Programs Division)
Contact Information: Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff Station – 909-595-2264,

 

Brush Fire In Walnut

Staff Reports

Walnut, CA – Last Monday, July 10th, about 40 firefighters battled a small brushfire in Walnut, knocking down the blaze that endangered homes in about a half hour, authorities said.

The Los Angeles County Fire Inspector, Gustavo Medina, said the first-alarm fire, which was reported right after 3 p.m., burned a quarter acre of brush. He said that no one was injured and no structures were damaged and firefighters stopped the fire’s progress.

On the 800 block of North Plantation Lane, the fire broke out and Medina said the initial call was a half-acre fire running uphill. Later, firefighters updated the size of the area burned to a quarter acre. No evacuations were necessary, according to deputies from the Walnut Diamond Bar sheriff’s station. Sheriff’s officials alerted residents of a neighborhood near Silver Valley Trail and Snow Creek Drive in Walnut.

An Optometrist WHO You Can Trust

Walnut Hills Optometry can be reached at (626) 965-3878 or (909) 594-1153. For more information, visit their website at http://www.walnuthillsoptometry.com

Staff Reports

Walnut – Do you know WHO will care for your eyes? Fire sale rookies at discount places are hard trust, assembly line medicine is no place for your vision!

Walnut Hills Optometry can satisfy all your optometry care needs with well over 20 years of experience, Walnut Hills Optometry (WHO) has taken excellent care of the vision needs of the community. They’ve been serving patients from Walnut, West Covina, Diamond Bar, and Chino Hills to patients from La Puente, Rowland Heights, Hacienda Heights and Whittier. Because of the quality of service provided, as well as the trusting care given by the doctor, patients travel from the Los Angeles and Inland Empire areas as well.

WHO considers vision to be a precious gift, and their office takes pride in providing comprehensive eye exams. 

WHO believes that quality eye care involves consistent care by a professional.  Carmela Larino, O.D., and her loyal staff, will give your eyes the personalized care and attention they deserve.

Dr. Larino is proud to serve the community she grew up in.  She attended Rowland Unified schools from elementary through high school, and then attended U.C. Irvine before receiving her doctorate degree from the Southern California College of Optometry.  In 2003, Dr. Larino was honored at her alma mater – Nogales High School – when she was inducted onto their Wall of Fame.  She is a member of the American Optometric Association, the California Optometric Association, and the Rio Hondo Optometric Society, where she stays current on the latest in eye care.  As a local resident, you might find Dr. Larino eating at your favorite restaurant, shopping in a local store, or attending a community event.

WHO offers personalized eye examinations, diabetic and eye health exams, and the management and care of a multitude of eye and vision concerns.  A wide variety of eyewear is also available, from progressive and polarized lenses to silicone high-oxygen contacts, and even designer frames. They also offer Lasik Surgery co-management. If you have used eyeglass frames scattered around the house, bring them to the WHO offices and they will donate them to those in need of frames.

WHO is conveniently located near the 10, 60 and 57 freeways, on the border of Walnut and West Covina, at 18800 East Amar Road # A5, inside the Walnut West Plaza. Their hours are Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.; and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  You can reach them at (626) 965-3878 or (909) 594-1153.  For more information visit their website at http://www.walnuthillsoptometry.com.

Walnut Hills Optometry thanks you for over twenty years, follow them for twenty more! ■

Walnut Teen Killed in West Covina Crash

Staff Reports

Walnut –Wednesday morning, a 17-year-old student was killed when a vehicle he was driving collided with a tree on the center divider on Nogales Street.
According to local reports, Ali S. Rizvi died when the minivan he was driving crashed into a tree on Nogales Street between Francesca Drive and Shadow Oak Drive. West Covina police spokesman Eddie Flores said someone heard the crash and called police at around 3 a.m. According to Flores, Police believe the minivan was southbound on Nogales Street when it hit a tree in the center median.
Coroner’s spokesman, Ed Winter, said Rizvi was pronounced dead at Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center at about 4:44 a.m.
Officers found the minivan and the injured driver and have not determined what led to the crash. A local resident was reported as saing he heard a loud crash around 3 a.m. and it was common to hear drivers speeding on Nogales Street. When he woke up around 7 a.m., he saw officers asking neighbors if they saw anything related to the crash.

Chaparral Students Make Global Connections

Photo courtesy: WVUSD

By WVUSD

DIAMOND BAR, CA—Chaparral Middle School 8th grader Izzy Reedy and a dozen classmates learned about culture, education, weather, and even sports in Tanzania this year.

But, it wasn’t by opening a textbook or conducting research on a computer.

The Diamond Bar students gained knowledge through a global connection with the Gyekrum Arusha Secondary School, located over 8,500 miles away in East Africa.

Education specialist Kimberly Ramos formed the partnership with teacher Zaituni Njovu and her students through the World Education Connection program.

The students and teachers got to know each other by communicating back and forth using email and Google Hangout.

“They would ask lots of questions and post photos,” Ramos said about the 21st century-learning technology.

“Anything I received from the teacher, I would post on Google Classroom to share with my kids.”

Ramos said her students embraced the program and were amazed with how many similarities they had with their new friends.

“The kids loved seeing each other. And the things we learned this year have had more meaning because we were able to connect with the other half of the ‘Kilimanjaro Squad’ on a personal level.”

The relationship deepened when students recently held a campus clean-up project to provide supplies to the school in Karatu Urusha.

On May 10, global teams shared their thoughts of the power of connection during an inaugural World Education Day event.

Classmates Julia Brandt, Alex Ginez, and Reedy arrived before the 7:45 a.m. opening bell, eager to participate in the live global broadcast.
“Asante Sana!” the students exclaimed in Swahili while waving to one another.

“We got to experience the way they live and learn,” Brant said. “I wouldn’t have changed a thing about this experience!”

“I hope we can stay connected with the kids in Tanzania.”

“The best thing has been the sharing,” Ginez offered.

“We talked about our siblings, our pets, and hobbies. We have a lot in common.”

Students said they also gained appreciation for their own lives after seeing the East African partner school squeeze 80 students inside a class with dirt floors and dilapidated furniture.

“It showed me to be grateful for what I have, and to respect elders and family,” Reedy said.

 

Walnut Valley Students Honored At Lunch With The Principal Event

Photo courtesy: WVUSD

By WVUSD

WALNUT, CA—Nine students were treated to a sizzling reward for achieving their personal best during the 19th annual Benihana Lunch with the Principal on Tuesday.

Each of the nine elementary schools in the Walnut Valley Unified School District chose a hard-working student to celebrate during the special lunchtime adventure held at the City of Industry restaurant.

Congratulations to this year’s fifth grade honorees: Aayati Sangal– Castle Rock, DJ Ruffin – Cyrus J. Morris, Estrella Gallegos – Collegewood, Alicia Agalos – Evergreen, Alice Shen – Quail Summit, Leah Owens – Maple Hill, Brianna Velez – Vejar, Sunny Morales – Walnut Elementary, and Emily Santos – Westhoff.

Personal chefs entertained audiences while creating flaming onion ring volcanos, drizzling eggs into a cartoon characters, and flipping shrimp tails in stovepipe hats.

After enjoying the teppan-style meal, principals took turns sharing success stories about their students.

“Not only has Emily achieved academic excellence, she perseveres through hard times, she’s a fabulous friend, and always follows the Golden Rule,” said Westhoff Elementary Principal Denise Rendon.

“Estrella is very hard-working, resilient, and shows genuine compassion to classmates,” said Collegewood Elementary Principal Mary Wendland.

Evergreen Elementary Principal Carolyn Wills shared that her honoree was selected for demonstrating attributes from the school’s the Keys to Success character education program.

“Alicia shows perseverance and kindness to everyone and is sure to be very successful!”

Students received certificates, Benihana chef’s hats, and keepsake photos.

 

Mustang Signing Day

Walnut High athletes make college commitments official

 By Kelli Gile

WALNUT, CA—Walnut High School celebrated seven elite athletes who have received scholarships to play college sports during a lunchtime ceremony on Wednesday.

Bella Amezcua – soccer, Jacob Garcia, Royce Labuguen, Frankie Zamarripa, and Brandon Godoy – baseball, Malia Avila – track, and Mia Dow – wrestling, signed national letters of intent as families and friends cheered them on.

“It’s exciting! Today makes all the years of hard work pay off,” said defender Bella Amezcua who committed to play soccer at Cal State University, Dominquez Hills.

Four varsity baseball teammates committed to continue playing their sport at the collegiate level during the May 4 event.

“It felt really good signing these papers today!” said pitcher Royce Labuguen who will attend Cal State University, Dominguez hills.

Labuguen said “it felt like home” when he recently toured the campus and met with the coaching staff.

“They’re really nice and welcoming.”

“This is something I’ve been looking forward to for a long time. It’s a dream come true,” said first baseman Frankie Zamarripa who will attend Clarke University in Dubuque Iowa.

Zamarripa said he’s been playing since he was about seven-years-old.

“Swinging the bat and throwing the ball has always been fun for me!”

Pitcher and outfielder Jacob Garcia will attend Cal State University, Stanislaus and third-baseman Brandon Godoy will attend Cal Poly University, Pomona.

Mia Dow, the most decorated wrestler at Walnut High, took 4th place during the CIF State Championships in February. She will be playing her sport at MacMurray College in Jackson, Illinois next year.

Track and field sprinter Malia Avila committed to attend Concordia University.

“This school had everything I was looking for!” said the star athlete who competed in the 300-meter hurdles at CIF State Championships.

Safety Tips From LASD

By Captain Alfred Reyes

Walnut – As your Walnut Diamond Bar Sheriff Captain, I would like to encourage you to be proactive in your community as honorary “volunteers” in helping our community remain safe. We would like to promote a few safety tips you should find helpful:

1.      Don’t become a victim of mail theft.  Remove your mail from your mailbox promptly after delivery.  Enroll in the USPS Informed Delivery Program

2.      Keep your car doors locked and do not leave personal items such as back packs, laptop cases, and electronic devices in plain view. 

3.      Report suspicious vehicle and people who may be casing an area to commit a crime. 

4.      If you are considering installing a burglar alarm, be sure to place a sensor on upstairs bedroom sliding glass doors. 

5.      If you own a late 1990’s to early 2000 Honda or Toyota, consider installing an anti-theft device such as an audible alarm, kill switch or steering wheel lock.

6.      Utilize the vacation check program.  (Residence can request patrol checks of their property while on vacation).

7.      Get involved, join a Neighborhood Watch Program.         

These are simple tips that could help you avoid being a victim of a senseless and random crime. Keep an eye out for anything or anyone that may be an obvious sign of a crime or safety issue. Thanks for making this such a great community.

WVUSD Trustees Recognize Students, Parents For Making A Difference

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Fifth grade artists are recognized as honorable mention winners in the Music K-8 Magazine Cover Contest.

 By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—Super star students and parent volunteers from Maple Hill and Westhoff elementary schools were honored by the Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees on April 19.

In addition, the Board recognized 14 talented young artists named winners in the 2017 Music K-8 Magazine Cover Contest and the 2017 Board Representatives.

Maple Hill Elementary all-star parent Natalie Johnson received the Partner in Education Award.

“When there is fun at Maple Hill, Natalie is front and center,” said Principal Kelly Morris.

Photo couresty: WVUSD
Maple Hill Elementary all-star parent Natalie Johnson receives the Partner in Education Award. Shown with Principal Kelly Morris, Board President Dr. Tony Torng, and family members.

Natalie, a Maple Hill alum, serves as the community club 2nd vice president in charge of fundraising.

This year, she planned and organized a new VIP Dance, along with the annual fall fundraiser, luau lunch, Hawk Walk pep rally, and jog-a-thon.

Natalie’s personal priority is to be a champion for kids. She also strives to make sure they receive the same love and excitement she received at the school, Morris said.

“Her events generate excitement and joy in the lives of all our children and teachers. She is a true memory maker!”

Fifth grader Leah Owens received Super Star Student Award.

“Leah has been capturing all our hearts since the first grade. She is incomparable, dynamic, effervescent, and beyond loving,” Morris described.

She has the gift of connecting with people, whether they are strangers or life-long friends.

“Leah has such a light within her, but also knows how to encourage the light within others,” Morris said.

This year, Maple Hill created a new school slogan: Kind Hearts, Strong Minds, Brave Spirit, Hawk Pride.

“Leah is the poster child and embodies all of these qualities!” Morris added.

Current and former teachers were also on hand to pay tribute to the student of the year who volunteers, greets students, makes announcements, and shares “Hawk Pride” all around the campus.

“On numerous occasions, I have watched Leah showing kindness to students who are struggling to make friends,” said 4th grade teacher Samantha Valadez.

“She sees the best in people and easily finds ways to make meaningful connections.”

Two valuable members of the Westhoff Elementary community were honored with the Partner in Education Award.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Maple Hill Elementary all-star parent Natalie Johnson receives the Partner in Education Award. Shown with Principal Kelly Morris, Board President Dr. Tony Torng, and family members.

Parent Valerie Lu quickly became a volunteer in her children’s classes when they started school in 2013, and now serves as the community club vice president.

Valerie collaborates with other parents and stepped up to coordinate phone banking during recent bond campaigns. She helps lead and serve at all schoolwide events including culture fair, walk-a-thon, movie night, Santa’s workshop, and colonial fair. She is also the co-chair for the 5th grade promotion committee and is currently making keepsake invitations for students.

“Westhoff staff members feel that she is responsible, reliable, humble, and never seeks recognition for all that she quietly does behind the scenes,” said Principal Denise Rendon.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Westhoff parent Preston McChesney is lauded with Partner in Education Award on April 19. Shown with Principal Denise Rendon, Board President Dr. Tony Torng, and family members.

Dedicated volunteer Preston McChesney has been helping out in his two children’s classes for the past several years. He is always available when needed and has a positive attitude that rubs off on others.

“Our teachers say that they can count on tons of support from this Dad!” Rendon said.

Preston can often be found sitting on the floor helping classroom reading groups, chaperoning field trips, setting up class parties, and even taking pictures for parents who aren’t there. And most importantly, he is an excellent role model for Westhoff students.

“He inspires all of us with his positive attitude, his devotion to his beautiful family, and genuine kindness he shares so freely. Thank you, for the generous donation of your time!” said Rendon.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Fifth grader Valentina Galvan is recognized with the Super Star Student Award. Shown with Board President Dr. Tony Torng.

Fifth grader Valentina Galvan was recognized with the Super Star Student Award.

Valentina exemplifies good character and sets a wonderful example for her classmates, according to teacher Kimberley Dalton.  She “buddy” reads with struggling readers or those learning English, and brings a smile to those around her because she is so encouraging.

This year, the active student council member led school spirit rallies, organized a school-wide book drive for an orphanage in Rosemead, collected socks for the homeless people, and helped run a note-writing campaign for those serving in the military.

Valentina is always willing to help those around her, and at the same time, maintains excellent study habits, great grades, and citizenship.

“Valentina has a natural sense of goodness and she will do extraordinary things!” Rendon said.

Fourteen elementary students were recognized as winners in the international 2017 Music K-8 Magazine Cover Contest.

Music Specialist Greta Baker introduced the talented 5th grade artists who received certificates of special recognition and color prints of their original designs.

This year’s top WVUSD winner is 2nd Runner-Up – Nadia Tsai from Vejar. Top Finalists are Justin Kung- Castle Rock and Sarah Fan – Westhoff. Finalists are Gloria Nien – Maple Hill, Melody Song – Quail Summit, and Ashley Chiu – Castle Rock. Honorable Mentions are Ashton Chen – Evergreen, Riley Phan – Walnut, LeAnna Fan – Vejar, Mia Zhang – Castle Rock, Alyssa Ma – Maple Hill, Sabrina Lin – Maple Hill, Amin Rasheed – Vejar, and Isabella Torreyson – Vejar.

WVUSD Trustees recognized the 2017 Student Representatives Abigail Nakaishi – Diamond Bar High and Katelyn Rowley – Walnut High for dedicated service.

The seniors are appointed to serve one-year terms, acting as liaisons between their campuses and the Board. Each month, the teens attend open meetings and present detailed reports of campus activities.