Category Archives: Eastvale Front Page

Breaking News Stories from Eastvale and surrounding communities.

Eastvale: Councilman DeGrandpre Resigns in Controversy

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

jeff degrandpre

Jeff DeGrandpre

Eastvale – With accusations of shady behavior toward unnamed colleagues, councilmember Jeff DeGrandpre abruptly resigned from Eastvale’s City Council, effective July 1, 2014.

The June 25 council meeting progressed like any other, and then came to an awkward end when DeGrandpre stood to read a letter to the council and public expressing his discontent that the council was no longer about the residents of Eastvale. While he did not provide any examples or name names, he accused his colleagues of “engaging in back-door deals” and holding closed door meetings in direct violation of California’s open-meeting law; he then publically resigned his position.

DeGrandpre was first elected to the Eastvale City Council in 2010, serving as the first Mayor Pro Tem, and then as Mayor in 2011-2012.

The recent council meeting was not the first time that DeGrandpre has pointed the finger at his colleagues. In 2013 he accused fellow council member, Kelly Howell, of “abusing funds” during a conference held in Las Vegas that they attended on behalf of the City. Howell posted on a local Facebook page that there “was no need for an investigation – staff provided all financial documents to the City Council at the next meeting”. The request for an investigation was eventually dropped, but not without causing ripples in the City and council. According to Howell, “It was a very difficult time for me and my family”.

William Link, who was selected as a replacement after councilmember Kelly Howell resigned last November, was shocked by DeGrandpre’s announcement. “I was stunned that he resigned. I don’t think anyone knew he was going to. As far as his accusations, I am unaware of the issues he spoke of.”

The ripples and controversy that were provoked by DeGrandpre are expansive. Many residents took to Facebook to express their concerns about the fraud allegations and resignation. Mayor Pro-Tem, Adam Rush, posted, “I am not aware of any illegal meetings, and if they occurred, I am saddened by this. Eastvale will continue to grow smart and provide excellent service to our fabulous community.”

Bill Van Leeuwen, from Mt. SAC, posted, “Jeff, I do not know what is behind this, but it is your decision and I respect that. Thank you for all your work in organizing the city and the leadership you provided. Blessings to you and Deanne as you go forward form this point.”

DeGrandpre’s wife, Deanne, also resigned her position with the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce earlier that same week, stating that the family was moving out of the state.

When asked to further elaborate on what prompted his resignation, DeGrandpre elected not to respond. Regardless of his personal reasons for resigning, he has left a vacant seat on the council that will need to be filled prior to this November’s election. The City must now decide whether to hold a special election, or select a person to serve out DeGrandpre’s term, which will end in 2016.

And what, if anything, will transpire as a result of DeGrandpre’s allegations? That remains to be seen.

K.P. Sander contributed to this story.

 

 

Eastvale: Goodman-Birtcher Project Update

By Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – The Goodman-Birtcher warehouse construction project that was halted at the June 11 Eastvale City Council meeting, when the council voted 3-2 to not approve the re-zoning and other aspects of the project, has been given new life. After appealing to the council and asking to be put back on the agenda, the council voted 5-0 to grant the developer’s request for reconsideration.

This project, which has been met with some resistance from many members of the community, includes a general plan amendment, zone change and specific plan for a 205 acre site; a tentative parcel map for sub-division of a 193 acre area into five industrial parcels; two business park parcels and one commercial parcel. In addition, the project also calls for the major development of a 2,714,829 square foot light industrial space, including four industrial/warehouse buildings.

Before the council voted on the reconsideration, Bryan Birtcher, CEO of Goodman Birtcher, addressed the council and expressed his gratitude for the project being reconsidered. He also said that there was some general confusion in the community over the Lewis Retail activities. Randall Lewis then spoke and clarified that Lewis Properties are “major supporters of the project and it’s a major investment in the Eastvale community. It will be good for the City.”

The reconsideration calls for the developers to take the recommendations of the council and to resubmit their requests at a future meeting. In an effort to make this process more efficient, each council member gave their recommendations.

Councilmember William Link, who was previously concerned about the amount of projected truck traffic each day, the lack of business retail, and the overall recommendation, did not believe that this project would be good for the community. Link hopes that “ the project will come back to planning with changes that are in line with what most feel would be best for the nearby residents and what is best for the City overall. It is a prime piece of property that cannot be wasted with the wrong project. It will continue to be opposed unless some serious changes are made.”

Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush stated that the City has a lot of needs, and he believes that the project is the best opportunity for that specific piece of property. However, he would like to see the impact of traffic, noise, and air quality be less, but understands that can only be controlled so much. “When the revised plan comes before council, we will really need to look at the benefits versus the impacts and make the decision.”

Councilmember Ric Welch emphasized his desire to make more of an effort to separate the warehouse from the residents on Bellegrave, reduce the number of intersections and signals on Hamner, and include a more in depth consideration of Cantu-Galleano to avoid blocking the streets up with trucks. The fact that this area would be one of the first sights seen when coming into Eastvale from that direction makes it imperative that it be well planned.

Mayor Ike Bootsma would like to see more e-commerce retail to help build revenue from sales tax and to keep truck traffic to a minimum.

Councilmember Jeff DeGrandpre noted, “It’s important to strike a balance.” DeGrandpre emphasized the need to look more at a project like Goodman-Birtcher as opposed to the building of 1,750 homes and the revenue that would be lost.

The Goodman-Birtcher representatives will take these recommendations and come up with a revised plan for council and public evaluation at a meeting not yet determined. If the Goodman-Birtcher project is not approved, the current property will remain zoned for housing.

 

 

Eastvale: City Council June Recap

By Jennifer Madrigal

 

Eastvale – This month there were two City Council meetings. The first meeting was held on June 11, at Rosa Parks Elementary. All council members were present and the meeting started promptly at 6:30 p.m. The invocation was led by Susie Tanner of Life Church. There were no presentations, announcements or public comments.

All items on the consent calendar were approved 5-0.

During the Public Hearings portion of the meeting, Item 6.1 was approved 5-0, and since there were no public comments, the public hearing on that item was closed at 6:34 p.m. Item 6.2 concerning a request for a rate increase from Waste Management for the fiscal year 2013-2014 included an update by City Manager, Carol Jacobs. The item was approved by a vote of 5-0. Item 6.3 concerning the Goodman/Birtcher Commerce Center, Project No. 11-0271, also had a public hearing. Jacobs provided a background and update on the item and explained some of the latest events concerning the project.

According to the City of Eastvale council minutes for the June 11 meeting, Councilmember Bill Link made a request for more “definitive language regarding the condition that the developer would initiate construction of not less than 100,000 square feet of business park within one year of issuance of the first industrial certificate of occupancy, yet that language was still too vague”. Jacobs assured Link that if the council decided to move forward with the project, that condition would be more clearly defined. The item was then opened for public hearing at 6:41 p.m.

Many residents came out to share their opinions on this project. Resident Rania Hamdy requested that the council oppose the project until the occupant can bring something of quality and diversity to Eastvale. Hamdy was concerned that Eastvale would become part of a group where warehouses had not been prosperous. The public hearing portion was closed at 6:46 p.m. Council members were then able to ask further questions on this project. (A deeper look at the Goodman/Bircher project can be found in our cover story). A motion to adopt a resolution approving a General Plan Amendment from high density residential to light industrial, commercial retail and business park, as well as a motion to adopt a resolution approving a major developmental plan review for the development of four new industrial/ warehouse buildings totaling 2,714,829 square feet, subject to conditions of approval, ultimately failed to pass, 2-3, with Rush and DeGrandpre voting yes, and Link, Welch and Mayor Bootsma voting no.

There were no Old Business Items. In the New Business Items section of the meeting, Item 8.1, Adoption of the Annual Operations and Capital Improvement Budget for the Fiscal Year 2014-2015 was presented by Jacobs via Power Point Presentation. Council members raised questions about salaries of various employees and asked for further clarification on salaries, as well as police contract negotiations and police salaries. The item was passed 5-0, with the exception of the addition of an additional Code Enforcement Officer, until a staff report is presented. Items 8.2 through 8.8 also passed 5-0. After some further Council business was conducted, the meeting was adjourned at 7:58 p.m.

The second meeting of the month was held on June 25 at Rosa Parks Elementary. All council members were present, with the invocation led by Pastor Rick Morris of The Crossings Church.

There were no public comments and the consent calendar was passed in its entirety, 5-0.

The Public Hearing portion of the meeting began with Item 6.1 for Delinquent Residential Solid Waste Accounts and placement of such accounts on property tax rolls for collection. The item passed 5-0. The Planning Commission recommended that Item 6.2, for the Adoption of the Eastvale Design Standards and Guidelines, be adopted by the council, and it passed 5-0.

There were no Old Business items. In the New Business section of the meeting Items 8.1 and 8.2 passed 5-0. Item 8.3, Architectural Features for Limonite Avenue Interchange at Interstate 15, failed to pass with a vote of 2-3. Item 8.4, for the establishment of an Eastvale Parks Commission, was presented by JCSD’s Director of Community Services, Chad Blais. This committee would not give the City actual authority over recommendations to JCSD about parks in Eastvale; Councilmember and JCSD Director of Parks and Community Affairs, Ric Welch, left room during vote due to conflict of interest. The item passed 3-1. Item 8.5 passed 5-0. Item 8.6, a request for reconsideration regarding the Goodman/Birtcher Project, was also on the agenda. The item was discussed in great deal and eventually the request for reconsideration passed 5-0. The decision made concerning the project at the June 11 council meeting has been reversed, and the project will once again be put back on the agenda. Council members were able to give their recommendations to Goodman/Birtcher as to what they would like to see at the next meeting.

There was no City Manager report, as Jacobs was out of town. And then, in a shocking turn of events, councilmember Jeff DeGrandpre read a letter to the council and public, accusing three council members of wrong doing. He expressed his discontent with the council no longer being about the residents of Eastvale. Although, DeGrandpre did not cite any actual examples or name any names, he did put in his resignation and will be leaving the council effective July 1.

The next City Council meeting will be held on July 9 at 6:30 p.m. at Rosa Parks Elementary. For more information on City Council agendas and meeting minutes, visit the City of Eastvale website at http://www.eastvaleca.gov.

 

Fireworks Prohibited in Riverside County

City of Eastvale
Posted Date:6/4/2014 11:45 AM

The City of Eastvale would like to remind everyone that it is illegal to possess, discharge or sell fireworks. Residents should adhere to the “no fireworks” law throughout the City of Eastvale pursuant to Eastvale Municipal Code Sec. 8.22.030.

The illegal use of fireworks can cause serious injuries to people and significant property damage. Dry conditions, due to lack of rainfall have created further potential for fires caused by illegal fireworks.  Please leave the fireworks to the professionals!

Residents and visitors are encouraged to attend the professional fireworks display at the Annual Eastvale Picnic in the Park on Saturday, June 28th at 9:00 p.m. at the new Eastvale Community Park: 12750 Citrus Street, Eastvale. Admission is FREE.

The City of Eastvale appreciates your understanding and cooperation with the no fireworks law and reminds everyone to be safe this 4th of July season!

EASTVALE: Suspect Arrested for Indecent Exposure, Lewd Conduct , etc.

Eneas Palacios

Eneas Palacios

INFO. Courtesy of RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT>On June 26, 2014, at 10:56 A.M., deputies assigned to the Eastvale Police Department responded to a report of indecent exposure that occurred on a walking trail near the area of Dearborn Street and Tisdale Street, city of Eastvale. Deputies quickly arrived in the area and met with the victim who provided a detailed description of the subject. After an extensive search by several deputies, a subject matching the description was located on the walking trail. The victim was able to positively identify the subject as the individual who exposed himself.

The suspect was identified as Eneas Palacios, a 23-year-old resident of Eastvale. Palacios was arrested for indecent exposure, lewd conduct, and a violation of probation. Palacios was later booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center for the above-mentioned charges.

The investigation revealed Palacios may have been involved in previous incidents of this nature. The Eastvale Police Department is asking the citizens of Eastvale to contact the Eastvale Police Department if they have any information on previous incidents which may have occurred in that area.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and Eastvale Police Department are committed to the safety of the citizens of this community and will be vigilant in investigating all crimes of this nature. The Eastvale Police Department is asking anyone with information about this incident to contact Deputy Thompson at the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

Eastvale: In Loving Memory of Sabrina Archer

 

sabrina-archer-rosa-parks-elementary

Sabrina Archer (Photo Courtesy: Rosa Parks Elementary)

BY K.P. SANDER 

Eastvale – With a loving and courageous spirit, Eastvale’s 12-year old Sabrina Archer recently lost her battle with cancer. On what would have been her graduation into middle school, family and friends will gather for her memorial service on Thurs., June 26.

 

Sabrina struggled with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) for over three years.   RMS is a cancer made up of cells that affect the muscles, and for Sabrina it began in 2011 with a tumor in her arm. After two years of chemotherapy and radiation, she was cancer free. Then in May of 2013, she began feeling pain in her stomach. A cat scan revealed two more tumors in her spleen, and Sabrina endured another round of chemo and radiation. Again, there was freedom for a while, and then heartbreakingly, last March came with more pain and three large tumors in her intestines. With the size of the tumors and the damage from previous treatments, Sabrina’s little body could no longer prevail, and she passed away on Father’s Day, June 15.

 

No doubt Father’s Day will always have a very significant meaning for Sabrina’s father, Ernest. He speaks of his daughter with a strength masking a loss that no parent should have to endure. He says that Sabrina was very outgoing and cheerful; she never met a stranger. “Even in the midst of all that she endured, she was wonderful; everybody loved her. We are very grateful for her spirit and grace through all the trials of cancer. SHE IS a kind and loving spirit,” said Ernest.

 

Sabrina has been a student at Rosa Parks Elementary in Eastvale since Kindergarten. Staff at the school describe her as courageous, with a beautiful smile and concern for everyone but herself. Sabrina spent a lot of time in the library, and Librarian, Sue Nichols, says, “Sabrina was a friend to everyone. She always had a bright smile that lit up a room when she entered it. Sabrina was loved by all and will be greatly missed.” Rosa Parks will be presenting a special tribute for Sabrina at the 6th Grade (B Track) Promotion this Thursday morning.

 

Sabrina is survived by her parents, Ernest and Nellie; her brother, Justin, 18, a recent High School graduate; and her younger brother, Garrett, 11, who is a 5th Grader at Rosa Parks Elementary. Sabrina will be intermed at the Holy Cross Cemetery in Los Angeles. Rest in peace, sweet spirit.

 

Services for Sabrina Archer will be on Thurs., June 26, at 4 p.m., at the Ontario First Church of the Nazarene, located at 1311 West 5th Street in Ontario (91762). The family has requested that children wear white, if possible, and would like Rosa Parks’ staff and students to attend.

 

 

 

Eastvale: Summer Celebrations

BY K.P. SANDER

E4th of Julyastvale – A wonderful summer of fun is in the works for the City of Eastvale and its neighbors. If you are looking for something to entertain your family and friends in the upcoming months, check out these special events taking place.

 

Picnic in the Park: A regular staple in Eastvale, JCSD’s (Jurupa Community Services District) three-day celebration boasts fun for everyone. From the water slides and the carnival rides, to the food and merchandise vendors, there is plenty of entertainment. And if that weren’t enough, the opening night concert (Friday at 7 p.m.) and the breathtaking fireworks show (Saturday at 9 p.m.) is sure to dazzle. This year’s event has a new venue. The new Eastvale Community Park at 12750 Citrus Street will host on Fri., June 27, 5 to 10 p.m.; Sat., June 28, noon to 11 p.m.; and Sun., June 29, 2 to 10 p.m.

 

Concerts in the Park: Eastvale’s parks are amazing, and the fun continues at Harada Heritage Park for JCSD’s 6th Annual Concerts in the Park. On Friday nights from 7:30 to 9 p.m., “Dancin’ thru the Decades” will rock you and your family and friends in style – and all concerts are FREE! Bring some lawn chairs and a picnic, or purchase food from one of the vendors.

  • July 11: Paperback Writers (Beatles Tribute)
  • July 18: Red Not Chili Peppers (RHCP Tribute)
  • July 25: Neon Nation (80s Experience)
  • August 1: Stepping Feet (Dave Mathews Band Tribute)
  • August 8: Queen National (Queen Tribute)
  • August 15: Led Zepplica (got this one?)
  • August 22: DSB (Journey Tribute)
  • August 29: Joshua Tree (U2 Tribute)

 

Our neighbors in Corona are celebrating Independence Day beginning with the Main Street Parade on Fri., July 4, at 10 a.m. Watch and cheer local groups as they make their way down Main Street from Ontario to Olive Avenue during this hometown event. Later in the day you can head over to Santana Park (598 Santana Way) to enjoy the much-anticipated Festival and Fireworks Show at 4 p.m. Activities include food vendors, children’s Fun Zone, and live entertainment. The formal program starts at 8:30 p.m., with the fireworks show at 9 p.m. Admission is FREE.

 

Right over the Norco River on Hamner Avenue, you can enjoy a 4th of July Horsetown Extravaganza in Norco. A Rotary Club All-You-Can-Eat Pancake Breakfast starts the day at Nellie Weaver Hall, 7:30 to 10 a.m. Just $5 per person and the proceeds benefit the George A. Ingalls Veteran’s Memorial. Ride off some of those calories at the Mayor’s Patriotic Scenic Ride at 10 a.m. Dress in Red, White and Blue as you leave Ingalls Park Parking Lot 2, since prizes will be awarded to the most patriotic horse and rider at this free event. The fun continues at the Picnic in the Park at Pike Peak Park (say that fast three times), with BBQ, refreshments, family games, music, waterslide and crafts. Still have some energy left? Go back over to the Moreno Arena at the George Ingalls Equestrian Event Center for the Concert, Laser Show and Movie Night! The gates open at 5:30 p.m. and for just $5 per person (12 and under free), you can enjoy a country concert featuring Sterling Sylver at 6:30 p.m.; followed by a little boot-scootin’ at Norco’s Longest Line Dance at 7:30 p.m. The amazing Laser Show will begin around 8:45 p.m., and the movie screening of Independence Day (how appropriate) at about 9:30 p.m. Now THAT is a 4th of July celebration!

 

Norco will continue to entertain you all summer with their “Norco Rocks! Summer Concerts in the Park and Movie Series,” on Fridays, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at Pikes Peak Park. Admission is free and food and refreshments are available for purchase. Bring your family and friends, chairs and blankets and enjoy!

  • June 20: Give Up The Junk (60s to Now Dance Music)
  • July 4: Sterling Sylver (Country)
  • July 18: Suspect (Classic Rock)
  • August 1: Yesterday and Today (Beatles Tribute)
  • August 15: RockStars of Tomorrow (Variety); with ‘Friday Night Lights’ movie to follow

 

Please remember that Fireworks are prohibited in Riverside County, per Ordinance 858. Enjoy one of these local celebrations – they do all the work for you – and have a safe and fun summer!

County Fire Chief Closes Hazardous Hiking Areas Due To Fire Danger

Cal Fire Press Release

Posted Date: 6/18/2014 9:30 AM

CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Chief, John R. Hawkins received approval from the Riverside County Board Supervisors to close seven hiking areas throughout Riverside County on June 17, 2014. The closures will remain in effect until further notice in the following areas:

  • Avery Canyon (Gibbel Road east of State Street in Hemet)
  • North Mountain and Indian Canyon (San Jacinto area)
  • Whitewater Canyon (Cabazon, north of Palm Springs)
  • Nuevo/Lakeview (east of Menifee Road and San Jacinto Avenue)
  • Minto (Sage)
  • Reinhardt Canyon (north of Highway 74 and California Avenue in Hemet)
  • Ramona Bowl and Bautista Canyon (southeast Hemet)

Riverside County Ordinance 787.6 restricts public access to these identified hazardous fire areas unless private property access is required. Public roadway travel is permitted, providing travel is confined to those surfaces within hazardous fire areas. Those violating the Ordinance may be subject to a minimum fine of $100 for first-time offenses. Future closures may be implemented based upon weather conditions, fuel moisture and increased wildland fire threat. For additional information on the closure of these hazardous fire areas, please contact the CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department Public Affairs Bureau at (951) 940-6985.

 

EASTVALE: DUI CHECKPOINT RESULTS

PRESS RELEASE COURTESY OF RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT.

Checkpoint Results:

Eastvale, CA –  The Eastvale Police Department conducted a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint on June 20, 2014, at Limonite Ave. and Cloverdale Market Place between the hours of 7:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m. Checkpoints are placed in locations that have the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driving deterrence and provide the greatest safety for officers and the public.

DUI/Driver’s License checkpoints have been shown to lower DUI deaths and injuries.  A major component of these checkpoints are the deterrent effects it has on those who might drive drunk or drugged impaired, bringing about more awareness and encouraging everyone to use sober designated drivers.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), checkpoints have provided the most effective documented results of any of the DUI enforcement strategies, while also yielding considerable cost savings of $6 for every $1 spent.  Ninety percent of California drivers approve of checkpoints.

Operation Results:

  • 690 Vehicles passed through the checkpoint
  • 1 DUI arrest
  • 11 Field sobriety tests for DUI of alcohol
  • 16 Citations were issued for unlicensed drivers
  •  2 Citation was issued for suspended driver’s license
  • 7 Citations for miscellaneous vehicle code violations and penal code violations
  • 6 Vehicles towed

During the checkpoint hours, patrol officers were in the vicinity contacting the public for vehicle code violations. Out of those contacts, 7 citations were issued. These numbers are included in the overall operation results listed above.

The checkpoint was conducted with the assistance of the Jurupa Valley Station’s Traffic Team, and Volunteers, and CAL ID. In addition, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department/Crime Analyst Unit was on scene to assist the Eastvale Police Department in processing the larger than normal volume of citations, towing records, arrest/incident reports and computer checks of various law enforcement databases.

Drunk driving is a major cause of fatal and injury collisions each year. We are seeking your assistance in saving lives. If you are on the roadways and you observe a possible drunk driver call 911 immediately. Officers will be dispatched to the location and make every effort to prevent the impaired driver from continuing to pose a threat.

The Eastvale Police Department wishes to remind you that if you choose to drink alcoholic beverages, please designate a sober driver before getting into a vehicle. Remember “Drunk Driving, Over the Limit, Under Arrest!”

Norco: July 4th Mayor’s Ride Picnic In The Park

Looking for something special to do this upcoming Independence Day? Norco is celebrating the Horsetown USA way!!

Join the fun filled festivities on Friday July 4th, 2014!

  • Rotary Club’s ALL YOU CAN EAT Pancake Breakfast 7:30am-10:00am – $5
  • Mayor’s Patriotic Scenic Ride 10am from Ingalls Park Lot 2 – FREE
  • Picnic in the Park from 12noon – 3pm at Pikes Peak Park – FREE
  • Concert, Laser Show & Movie Night – 6pm in Moreno Arena $5 (12 & under Free)

CALL 951-270-5632 or visit http://www.ci-norco.ca.us for all the details!mayor's-ride-picnic-in-the-park

Eastvale: Picnic In The Park

BY K.P. SANDER

 

Carnival-Eastvale-picnic-in-the-park

Carnival at Eastvale Picnic in the Park 2013 (Photo Courtesy: K.P. Sander)

Eastvale – If you have been in the City of Eastvale for a while, you know that one of the events citizens look forward to each year is the Picnic in the P

ark. It is the kind-of-official kick off of summer, and the enjoyment is apparent by the number of people that visit.

 

This year, the tradition will move south a bit as the scenery changes to the brand new Eastvale Community Park, located at 12750 Citrus Street, at the corner of Hamner Avenue. It will be interesting to see how everything is set up as the event celebrates its tenth year at a new venue.

 

This year’s three day celebration will begin on Fri., June 27, from 5 to 10 p.m., with the opening night concert scheduled for 7 p.m. – also the kick off of Eastvale’s Summer Concert Series. As usual there will be fun for everyone with water slides and inflatables, food merchants and vendors, contests and picnic games, and the very popular carnival attractions.

 

The fun continues on Sat., June 28, from noon to 11 p.m., and you most definitely will not want to miss the breathtaking fireworks spectacular at 9 p.m. (early arrival is advised).

 

Picnic in the Park concludes on Sunday, with operating hours from 2 to 10 p.m. Throughout the weekend there is great music to entertain, interesting food to try (hello, Kettle Corn!), and plenty of activities for everyone in the family. There is no charge for admission; however tickets and wristbands are available for purchase for the carnival rides and inflatables.

 

For additional information on this event, including vendor inquiries, contact Jurupa Community Services District at (951) 727-3524, or visit www.parks.jcsd.us.

 

Hurry, hurry, step right up and get ready to enjoy a great weekend at Eastvale’s 10th Annual Picnic in the Park. See you there!

 

Eastvale: Here We Grow Again-REVISED

eastvale gatewayBY K.P. SANDER

 

Eastvale – Let’s take a drive through the grand city of Eastvale and see what is new and exciting as we continue to grow.

Start in the east part of the City near the I-15 Freeway, and pull into the Eastvale Gateway center at the northeast corner of Hamner and Limonite. Take a gander at the brand new Food Court sign stretching across the area by The Habit Burger Grill and Von’s market. The new signage really spruces the courtyard up, and alludes to some wonderful culinary possibilities (have you ever had the pastrami on sourdough at The Habit? I’d call it wonderful). Not quite a food choice, but new all the same is the Cellular Repair store, between the dentist and the forthcoming Tio’s Mexican Food. Since practically everyone on the planet has a cell phone, I’d say, “Well done, Gateway.” Speaking of Tio’s, word on the Eastvale News Facebook page is lots of positive anticipation and reports of really good food and service – okay, that was a few words, but excitement over delicious tacos cannot be contained to just one.

Staying in the same center, now drive over toward the movie theatre where you will find Pho Viet, a Vietnamese noodle house next door to Bamboo Thai. And then right between the theatre and Nestlé’s is the Snow Station. I had to know more, and found that their website asks a poignant question: “Have you ever wondered what freshly fallen snow would taste like if it were combined with your favorite flavors?” If it is macaroni and cheese, then no, I have never wondered about this. But if it is a “cold, light, fluffy, cotton candy melting cream that is rich and dreamy and will dazzle my taste buds and is a healthy, lactose-free and vegan friendly dessert option with flavors like strawberry, mango, passion fruit, green apple and raspberry,” then YES! Sounds like a great post-movie or beat-the-heat treat.

We are now going to head to the southwest part of the city, so exit Gateway onto Limonite, but before you do, take a look across the street at Gateway South and be amazed by the progress that the Eastvale San Antonio Medical Center has made. That building is up and the exterior is quite polished; it appears to be developing nicely toward the grand opening this fall.

As you pass the Starbucks on Limonite, set your GPS for “the other Starbucks,” and head toward the Marketplace at the Enclave, at the corner of Archibald and Schleisman. You know CVS and Jack-in-the-Box, and you might know that appearing in the not-too-distant future are Fantastic Sam’s, Mes Amies Hair and Nails, Foot Massage, Dentistry with Nihar Tanna DDS, Lee’s Noodle House and Juice It Up; but did you know we are getting a Great Harvest Bread Company? Oh, joy of joys! Not only do they bake amazing, whole-grain, healthy bread daily, but they make some seriously mean sandwiches. But come autumn (and according to Great Harvest themselves, a September Eastvale opening is a possibility) they bring out the big guns…a pumpkin swirl delight that can be transformed into a french toast that is a bucket list all by itself. Seriously, you make some of that at home and a ticker-tape parade will be held in your honor. Just sayin’; its pretty good stuff, if you like that kind of thing (OMG!). Oh, yeah, they’re pretty generous with their samples, too.

Now drive home, get your family, and go out and enjoy the new businesses in Eastvale!

 

Business Feature: DV Urgent Care Takes Care Of You

dv urgent care eastvale

DV Urgent Care & Occupational Health is located at 6080 Hamner Avenue, Suite 100, in Eastvale. They can be reached at (951) 361-0104, or visit http://www.dvurgentcare.com. (Photo Courtesy: DV Urgent Care)


STAFF REPORTS

Eastvale – A warm, welcoming attitude, along with a passion for helping and connecting with patients is what separates Dr. Dan Vasile at DV Urgent Care from the rest.

Vasile owns and operates five Inland Empire Urgent Care Facilities, including the DV Urgent Care & Occupational Health in Eastvale, and Skin Envy Med Spa & Weight Loss in Rancho Cucamonga.

“Being a doctor was my calling since childhood,” says Vasile. “It takes painstaking determination and long hours to be an effective doctor. Each and every day I’m surrounded with people from all walks of life and through medicine, I’m able to touch their lives in a way that others can’t.”

DV Urgent Care offers treatments for a wide range of symptoms and ailments for both urgent care and walk-in patients. Facilities treat ailments from fevers, colds and flu, to burns, cuts and scrapes, to breaks and sprains – and everything in between. There is also a focus on women’s health issues and minor surgeries.

“Our patient’s well-being always comes first,” says Vasile. “Our mission is to provide unilateral care and treatment to the communities we serve. Our five urgent care clinics are staffed with highly trained medical professionals who are ready to serve you. We are always ready to offer you first class service when you need it the most,” he added.

One of the major concerns facing people today is the high cost of medical treatment and that is of deep concern to Vasile.

“At all of our urgent care clinics, we truly believe that money should not be a deciding factor when it comes to getting the medical treatment you need. We offer very competitive pricing and will work with you to get you the treatment you deserve at a price you can afford,” says Vasile.

Vasile also operates Skin Envy Med Spa & Weight Loss, which offers monthly discounts on services such as laser hair removal, Botox, microdermabrasion and weight loss treatment. Other treatments include a wrinkle therapy, liquid face lift, skin tightening, facials and chemical peels.

All of the DV Urgent Care clinics treat patients from children to the elderly and all patients are welcome on a walk-in basis.

“If you are away from home, do not have a doctor, or your doctor is not available, we are the best option for non-life threatening medical issues,” says Vasile. “There is always a warm, welcoming attitude and attentive care from our physicians, assistants, and staff,” he adds.

DV Urgent Care & Occupational Health is located at 6080 Hamner Avenue, Suite 100, in Eastvale, and can be reached at (951) 361-0104 or http://www.dvurgentcare.com. This location also has X-Rays, Physical Therapy, Pain Management and Orthopedic Services on site.

Skin Envy Med Spa & Weight Loss is located at 8112 Milliken Avenue, Suite 103-1, in Rancho Cucamonga, and can be reached at (909) 989-7720 or http://www.skinenvymedspa.com.

Eastvale: The Crossings Kids Camp

the-crossings-eastvalePress Release

FREE – Kids Camp
Sunday June 29, 2014 – Tuesday July 1, 2014; 5pm – 7:30 pm
River Heights Intermediate School 7227 Scholar Way, Eastvale, CA 92880

Theme: Agency D3 – Discover. Decide. Defend.

Register your kids for Agency D3 to investigate the exciting truths about Jesus. They will be briefed on their mission at Headquarters. As Special Agents, they will examine evidence in the Evidence Vault, create cool gadgets in the Lab, hone their skills out in the Training Grounds and enjoy dinner in the Break Room.

This will be their biggest investigation EVER as they discover these truths through games, crafts, music, stories, etc.

Dinner is provided every night.

Register online at http://www.atthecrossings.com

For further details contact Terra, Director of Children’s Ministry at terra@atthecrossings.com

The Crossing Church/Eastvale
Meeting Sundays at 10am
@ River Heights Intermediate
7227 Scholar Way
Eastvale, CA 92880
http://www.atthecrossings.com

Eastvale: Schleisman Bridge Widening Continues

Local ConstructionCITY OF EASTVALE

Eastvale – The Schleisman Bridge widening work will resume again this Wed., June 11 and will continue until mid-July. Please be advised that traffic delays should be expected during construction hours of 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m.
The remainder of the work consists of completion of roadway improvements from Gypsum Creek Drive to west of the Schleisman Bridge; final pavement cap; re-striping; completion of sidewalk connectivity from west of the Schleisman Bridge to Gypsum Creek Drive; and landscaping of the center median between Hellman Avenue and the Schleisman Bridge
As always, motorists are encouraged to take alternate routes and allow extra drive time for any activities in the immediate area. Residents are encouraged to obey all traffic signs, vehicle code laws and speed limits, especially in construction zones.
If you have any questions related to this construction project or have any traffic concerns, please feel free to contact the City of Eastvale’s Public Works Department at (951) 703-4470.

Eastvale: Got Walmart?

BY K.P. SANDER

Eastvale – Talk of a Walmart coming to Eastvale has been around the town for quite some time. The property at the southeast corner of Archibald and Limonite is the destination of the project, which is still in the preliminary planning phase, as in, can this really happen?

According to the City of Eastvale’s Public Information Officer, Michele Nissen, Walmart is still a go. The popular retailer is currently in negotiations with Southern California Edison over a 66KV line that sits on Archibald Avenue. Apparently SCE wants Walmart to relocate the line when the road is widened, but Walmart is not keen on spending the $1 million to get it done. Once an agreement has been reached in this regard, the actual planning stage can begin. It could be a year before it comes before Eastvale’s Planning Commission.

According to their website, Walmart operates nearly 11,000 stores in 27 countries, including 282 retail establishments in California. They employ 2.2 million employees, or associates, worldwide, and expect fiscal year 2014 sales of approximately $473 billion. Their mission is to help people around the world save money and live better, and try to keep integrity as the cornerstone of their operations from retail transactions to community giving and global responsibility. But Market Watch (Wall Street Journal) has recently noted that the company has reported five straight quarters of declining same-store sales in the U.S., with Sam’s Club sales dropping for two straight quarters. Should we be concerned?

As if this weren’t enough, CNNMoney recently reported that the National Labor Relations Board challenges that Walmart “unlawfully threatened, disciplined and/or terminated workers for engaging in legally protected strikes and protests.” At the heart of this challenge are 60 workers – 19 of whom were fired – who walked off the job in strikes aimed at better pay and benefits in 2012 and 2013. The U.S. Government will have a say in whether this was all done legally, and Walmart could be forced to reinstate the terminated workers and provide them with back pay depending on the outcome of forthcoming court dates. And legalities are part of the norm in any business, especially in one of this size, however the decision could have an effect on employer/employee relationships everywhere.

Despite the recent ruckus, the retail giant could still be a boon to Eastvale by bringing a potential $1 million in sales tax revenue to the City, and another way to “roll back prices” for more than 57,000 Eastvale residents – as well as those in nearby Chino and Ontario. If they can re-gauge their target markets in alignment with new initiatives to better sales, Walmart may indeed help Eastvale save money and live better.

Inland Empire: Getting from No to Go-Negotiation Musts for Marketers

american-marketing-association-inland-empire

Riverside – The American Marketing Association Inland Empire chapter will be hosting an interactive business networking and educational event on “Getting from No to Go: Negotiation Musts for Marketers” on Thursday, June 19, 2014 at the Victoria Club in Riverside, CA.
In business, the ability to be an effective negotiator can make the difference between success and failure.
Here, you’ll learn techniques to better influence business associates, vendors, customers and colleagues in any setting. During this interactive session, leadership and management expert Cassie Hoag will share a proven step by step negotiation process that will help attendees achieve the best outcome and create win-win, productive relationships.

What: “Getting from No to Go: Negotiation Musts for Marketers” by Cassie Hoag

When: Thursday, June 19, 2014
11:30am-1:00pm

Where: The Victoria Club – 2521 Arroyo Drive, Riverside, CA 92506

Fee: Pre-registration is $25.00 for members of the American Marketing Association, American Ad Federation and Public Relations Society of America and $35.00 for non-members. $40.00 at the door. Registration includes lunch.

How To Register:
Visit http://www.ama-ie.com

cassie-hoag-presenter-at-amaie-luncheon

Cassie Hoag will speak at AMA-IE luncheon on June 19th at Victoria Club Riverside

About Speaker Cassie Hoag:
Cassie Hoag has a track record of excellence in leadership roles within companies of all sizes: from start-ups and turnarounds to Fortune 500 players in the healthcare, technology and retail sectors. She has served on several for-profit and not-for-profit boards, most notably as President of the National Association of Women Business Owners Orange County chapter, where she had previously been named that organization’s “Entrepreneur to Watch.” Cassie graduated from University of Delaware.

The American Marketing Association-Inland Empire (AMA-IE) is the marketing authority for marketing professionals and businesses in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. The AMA-IE is part of the American Marketing Association, the largest marketing association in North America. The AMA-IE mission is to help our members develop professionally through educational programs and networking events, as well as providing opportunities to businesses to grow their businesses through educational programs and obtaining highly qualified marketing professionals for their staffs. For more information please visit http://www.ama-ie.com and follow us at https://twitter.com/InlandEmpireAMA

Pomona: Car Wash Benefitting LA County Fire Department Post 15 Explorers

The Los Angeles County Fire Department Post 15 Explorers will be hosting a car wash on Saturday, June 21, from 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at Fire Station 181 located at 590 S. Park Avenue in Pomona. Proceeds from the car wash will benefit the local Explorer program and assist with training opportunities, and the purchase of uniforms and equipment.

Post 15 is a non-profit organization sponsored by the Los Angeles County Fire Department and is open to young men and women ages 15 to 21 that live in Pomona and surrounding communities. The Explorer Program offers insight into a career in the fire service and provides community service opportunities within the City of Pomona.
There is a $5.00 donation for a car wash and hotdogs and sodas will be sold for $2.00.

For more information, or information on the Explorer Program please contact Explorer Advisor, Firefighter Steven Chavez at (951) 880—6842.

Eastvale: The Road To Rehab – Inside A Pot House

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

pot-house-paraphernalia

Pot House paraphernalia

Eastvale – The road to rehabilitating a pot house is a long and arduous one, costing the homeowner time and a significant amount of money in order to restore it to being habitable.

A few months ago the Eastvale Community News explained how pot houses are identified and what goes into finding one; and earlier this month we gave you a video exclusive of what the inside of a pot house looks like. But what happens after the police leave? Read on…

a-pot-house-room-retrofitted-to-accomodate-marijuana-growth

A room retrofitted to accommodate marijuana growth – a Landlord’s nightmare. (Photo Courtesy: Jennifer Madrigal)

Once a home is identified, be it through police detective work or from a homeowner calling the police, a pot house begins to be processed. The Eastvale Police Department’s Special Forces team comes in and identifies and tags evidence, takes pictures, destroys drugs in all stages of development, and clears the home of all evidence, materials, money, weapons, etc. The police then contact the city and Southern California Edison (SCE). SCE comes out and immediately shuts off the power. The city sends building and city code officials to inspect the home for mold and other contaminants. The house is then “red tagged” and deemed uninhabitable until permits are pulled and all damage is corrected.

The most common problems that these houses endure are the major modifications made to the air conditioning system, primarily to cool the attic and avoid infrared detection; mold in the ceilings, floors and walls; torn up drywall with insulation removed; pipe damage due to marijuana and corrosive pesticides being flushed in the drains; carpet damage due to “seeding” fallout; and water damage to walls and floors (both floors in a two-story dwelling). These modifications can cause significant safety risks to the structure and any occupants, and must be corrected immediately. Of course all of this is provided that the house does not catch fire due to the amping up of the electrical system to engage the high-intensity sun-spectrum lighting, and bypassing the system to avoid SCE detection and payment of electricity.

According to Tim Steenson, building official for the City of Eastvale, the city issues a variety of permits that are necessary for the safe restoration of these residences. The first permit, to regain electrical power, is kept separate in order to allow the homeowner the power needed to initiate repairs while the home is still red-tagged. Only when the electrical damages to the distribution system have been repaired and approved by SCE and the city, can power be restored.

Another important permit needed is for the actual rehabilitation of the house. This specialized permit involves the clearing of mold by appropriately trained professionals; the repair of structural damage to the home including drywall and duct work; the removal of extra air conditioning equipment and the return of standard flow; and ensuring all parts of the home are up to code and safe. Once all of these repairs are made, the city will then return to do a final inspection. If the home is approved, it can be removed from red tag status. Then the work of replacing carpets, flooring, pipes, paint, cabinetry, appliances and anything else that might have been damaged apart from the structure comes into play.

So who pays for all this damage? Homeowner insurance often has a “no criminal activity” clause, and although homeowners may be able to re-coup some of their money, they can end up being stuck with the costs. Sgt. Davis of Eastvale’s Special Forces team assigned to these grow houses, says that homeowners can try and re-sell the expensive equipment used in the process, (lights, fans, etc.) to try and make some of the money back. The criminals that leave these things behind are usually unable to come back and retrieve their equipment, furniture, and televisions, and the sale of such might allow the homeowners to make a little of the money back.

In 2012, a convicted pot-grower in Florida was presented not only with jail time, but with an electrical utility bill in the amount of $26,000 and ordered to pay. Other convictions have resulted in financial repayment to the victims of these crimes, but that is not a probable solution. Many criminals are never caught. At any rate, the homeowner is ultimately responsible, and any restitution from a conviction would be a long, long way down the road.

With all the damage that these houses endure, and the major costs associated with their repair, shutting them down before they start or when they are in their early stages is crucial. According to Eastvale Police Department’s Lt. Yates at the May 28 Safety Council Meeting, marijuana grow houses are decreasing in Eastvale. “To date we have had 55 houses seized and shut down, but where we once had three or four a week, we are now down to about one per month,” said Yates. This shows that the collaborative efforts of law enforcement and the City, as well as the awareness of the community, is working. We are driving these houses out of our city.
K.P. Sander contributed to this story.

Eastvale: Restoration of Vehicle License Fee Funds Still In Limbo

BY GLENN FREEMAN

Eastvale – The fate of a legislative bill expected to restore Vehicle License Fees (VLF) to four Riverside County cities remains in limbo, though recent activity indicates it’s again progressing through the legislature. However, at least one of the four cities – Eastvale – has essentially thrown in the towel.
Sponsored by California Sen. Richard Roth (D-Riverside), Senate Bill 69 replaces a similar bill (SB56) that previously stalled in the legislature. Last May, SB69 passed the state senate and proceeded to the state assembly, where the bill awaits a final vote.
The bill proposes to move an estimated $18 to $19 million in property tax money normally marked for education to the four Riverside County cities. It stems in part from a 2011 decision by California lawmakers – via SB89 – to shift millions in vehicle license fee funds from cities as part of the prison realignment process that shifted these costs from the state to counties. The shifting of VLF funds was done to help counties absorb these new costs. However, the funds came from those normally given to cities, removal of which greatly impacted newer municipalities that typically rely heavily upon VLF funds.
Locally, the four cities most affected by the shifting of VLF funds were Eastvale, Jurupa Valley, Wildomar, and Menifee, all of which have incorporated since 2008. The four cities have worked for the past two plus years – sharing a lobbyist – in trying to get the funds restored.
Eastvale, however, recently decided not to renew its contract with the lobbyist, saying doing so was “throwing good money at bad. We have better uses for that money,” Mayor Ike Bootsma told The Press-Enterprise. Bootsma says he’s not optimistic that if SB69 passes, that Governor Brown will sign it, thus the City is not counting on restoration of the lost funds.
Michele Nissen, Public Information Officer for Eastvale, says City officials have been prudent in their budgeting without relying on the VLF funds.
“We have been very conservative in our budget decisions (past, present and future) and have not counted on getting the VLF money back. The major impact to the City is that the loss of VLF money takes away our ability to provide more police officers and other services,” said Nissen.
In particular, the loss of VLF funds was hardest on Jurupa Valley, which was the last of the four cities to incorporate in 2011, just two days after the shifting of VLF funds by the state. The new city lost nearly half of its general fund budget during its first year. It has since cut expenses and delayed some payments to Riverside County. But without restoration of the VLF funds, the city expects to run out of money by July 2015. As a precaution, city officials reluctantly began the lengthy disincorporation process this past January.
However, other options to make up the lost monies – including a possible public vote for an annual assessment on property – are also under review. It is unknown at this time whether either option will save Jurupa Valley from potential disincorporation.