Category Archives: Eastvale Community News

Crime Recap

 

Staff Reports

Inland Empire– The local Sheriff’s Department has done a great job arresting several individuals for conducting crimes in and around our city. Here is a recap of the news releases that were released by the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and the Corona Police Department.

On April 6, at 1:38 a.m., Eastvale patrol officers responded to a residence located in 6700 block of Ruby Canyon Dr., Eastvale, regarding a missing juvenile. During this investigation, an extensive search of the area was conducted and officers were unable to locate the juvenile.  At 7:30 a.m. on April 7, the juvenile was located at school in the city of Corona. The juvenile was in good health and unharmed. The juvenile was reunited with their family.

On April 20, Eastvale Police deployed extra traffic enforcement officers to stop distracted driving, thanks to funding provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety and through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The results of this operation included: eleven drivers that were issued a citation for either talking or texting while driving, and two drivers that were cited for driving without a valid license.

On April 20, the Jurupa Valley Police Department conducted the same operation, which resulted in six drivers that were issued a citation for either talking or texting while driving, and three drivers that were cited for driving without a valid license.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has provided a list of tips that can help you, your children, and your employees to stop talking or texting while driving. View the tips at http://www.riversidesheriff.org/press/jvs16-0420.asp

On April 21, three suspects were arrested for crimes related to the thefts, vandalism, and a strong-arm robbery in Eastvale. The Eastvale Police Department’s Special Enforcement Team (SET) worked closely with the Jurupa Valley Station’s crime analyst, patrol deputies, and the Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) parks deputy to narrow down dates, times and locations of the crimes that have occurred since November 2015.

After an investigation was conducted, three suspects were identified and arrested.  Ryan Filkins, 18 of Eastvale, was arrested for felony warrants and bringing a controlled substance into a jail.  Robert Filkins, 18 of Eastvale, was arrested and booked for felony warrants.  Aaron Allen, 23 of Eastvale, was arrested for felony warrants.  Charges against all three suspects are being sought related to the thefts, reports of vandalism, and a strong-arm robbery.

On April 29, two Corona residents were arrested by Postal Inspectors on federal conspiracy and mail theft-related offenses for a scheme that resulted in them using a counterfeit Postal Service key to access 300 mailboxes at a Corona apartment complex and steal mail. A third defendant is currently a fugitive being sought by federal authorities.

The two taken into custody on April 29 are Bernie Martinez, 23, and Kammi Leigh Vestesen, 24. The third defendant that is being sought by authorizes is Hector Mendez, 29, of Corona.

According to the indictment, Martinez and Vestesen entered the mail room of the Sierra Del Oro apartment complex on April 10 and used a counterfeit Postal Service key to open resident mailboxes. All three defendants allegedly went to the same mailroom on April 12, used the counterfeit key to open mailboxes, and left the premises with a trash bag full of mail. The indictment specifically charges all three defendants with conspiracy, mail theft and possession of a counterfeit United States Postal Service key.

Fifty Years Faithful

By Pastor Rob Norrisrob-norris-BW-2x2

“For love is as strong as death.” – Song of Solomon 8:6

Only 10 months into their marriage, during an otherwise calm Sunday drive to church one July morning, a young Navy couple’s car was broadsided by a streaking ambulance racing through an intersection. The driver of the car, R. L. Alford, sustained some minor injuries. His wife, Hilda, was thrown from the vehicle, suffering a massive head injury that left her not only a quadriplegic, but also legally blind and unable to speak.

That was 50 years ago—50 years of communicating with his wife through little more than the nods of her head. Fifty years of pushing her wheelchair or (his preferred way) carrying her in his arms. Fifty years of emptying her urine pan and cleaning up her bowel movements. And in the last few years, even feeding her through a tracheal tube and learning how to insert her catheters.

Along the way, R. L.’s brand of marital loyalty has drawn some unexpected notice (“Undeserved,” to hear him say it). When a longtime family friend spearheaded a drive in the mid-80s to raise funds to build the Alfords a new home, help came from such high-ranking places as Florida governor Bob Martinez, who not only gave them a brand-new refrigerator but also spent a day working at the construction site. President Ronald Reagan sent a check for $500, followed by another for $1,000.

“When R. L. was asked to repeat the vow ‘for better or worse,’” a neighbor said, “he heard it real loud. Medically, it’s a miracle Hilda is still alive. But she’s not alive because of all those doctors. She’s alive because R. L. gave his life to her.”

In September 2006, the Alfords celebrated their golden anniversary. Looking back, R. L. humbly remarked, “Sure, it’s been rough in some ways. But it’s been rewarding.”

Fifty years of being there. May all our promises to each other be that long lasting.

Live It! Talk about what you would do for one another if the unthinkable happened. Promise you’ll be there, regardless.

Pray: While asking God for many more years together, pray it with a promise that you’ll remain faithful no matter what those years entail.

 

The Crossings meets Sundays, 10 a.m., at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale. For more information, visit atthecrossings.com.

 

18th Annual Unity Awards Honors CNUSD Students and Teachers

Photo courtesy: CNUSD Seven students and teachers from Corona Norco Unified School District were honored at the 18th Annual Unity Awards.

Photo courtesy: CNUSD
Seven students and teachers from Corona Norco Unified School District were honored at the 18th Annual Unity Awards.

Courtesy of CNUSD

Corona – The 18th Annual Unity Awards honored seven individuals, many of them students and teachers from Corona Norco Unified Schools. The award winners exemplify UNITY’s mission to promote community involvement in the positive development of children, youth, and families.

Student Awards:

Abigail Hwang-Nable – 10th Grade – Centennial High School

Rachel Mershon – 12th Grade – Corona High School

Alyssa Penn – 12th Grade – Centennial High School

Adult Awards:

Jill Castillo – Team Victoria

Clark Eveland – Officer – Corona Police Department

Marisela Ibarra – DELAC, VP – Parkridge Elementary

Veronica Perez – Teacher – Highland Elementary

 

City Council Recap

By Emily Aguilar

The Eastvale council welcomed April with a plethora of important topics pouring before them, so they didn’t waste any time at their April 13 meeting and went straight into discussion. The first meeting began smoothly by recognizing April as National Donate Life Month, which encourages people to become organ donors.

Then Erin Sasse, the Regional Public Affairs manager for the League of California Cities, presented an update on legislative actions taking place in Sacramento. Some of the bills Sasse mentioned include: SB-876, which deals with homelessness issues; AB-2501, which deals with condesity bonuses; AB2526, which limits parking; AB 2220, which states that cities with a population over 100,000 are required to participate in district elections; and AB 2614, which deals with operations of medical marijuana facilities.

Continuing with the topic of bills, Glenda Chavez gave a brief description about AB 1826. The bill, which was signed in October 2014, requires businesses that generate 8 cubic yards of organic waste to establish an organic recycling program by April 1. The state believes that the program will divert approximately 30 million tons of waste. This will help reduce climate change and preserve environmental resources. By January 2017, the state also requires businesses that generate 4 cubic yards of waste every week to create waste management programs. Also, by January 2019, the same would be required for business and multifamily properties that generate 4 cubic yards of organic waste per week. This is applicable to Eastvale because Waste Management will work to enforce the bill’s provisions on local businesses.

Breaking away from the serious discussion about bills and laws, Julia Sung delivered her student liaison report by providing some impressive details about Eleanor Roosevelt High School (ERHS). Since there were so many ERHS seniors who were accepted into UCs, chair woman Janet Napolitano was scheduled to visit ERHS on April 14 in order to inform students about the UC system and encourage Juniors to apply to UCs next year.

Another interesting event occurring at ERHS is the new tradition they want to begin with this year’s graduating class: from here on out, the school wants to create a mural of the graduating seniors. The idea is still under development, but the school is eager to start the tradition. Sung also announced that May 13 will mark River Heights and Eastvale Elementary’s 10-year anniversary.

Although ERHS students may be excelling academically, a series of residents expressed their annoyance and concern of the students’ their poor traffic etiquette. During the public commentary, the residents stated that many ERHS students park their vehicles in local neighborhoods instead of the school parking lot. In addition, some students were leaving trash in the front lawns of their homes. The council stated that they would look into the situation.

Next, the council motioned all items on the consent calendar. Then, before the council discussed the proposed changes in the Goodman Commerce Center, they went into a closed meeting that lasted over an hour. When they came back, they were ready to discuss the topic.

At the moment, Goodman Birtcher has constructed one of two buildings that are set to take place at the Goodman Commerce Center. At the same time, road construction on Hamner, Bellgrave, and Cantu-Galleanu were set to take place on the week of April 18. But Goodman Birtcher wants to occupy the building before major road changes and other installations are created, so a series of changes have been proposed. Planning Director Norris presented these recommended changes, which included the proposal to install a generator for six months and letting construction take place inside the building regardless of the scheduled work hours.

Before the decision, resident Caroline Martinez asked the council not to motion the changes because she was worried that the changes would cause noise and traffic disruptions. But Norris responded that construction would be regulated so it would not cause any problems around residents.

After taking into consideration that sales tax would not come off the changes and that the commerce center will overall boost employment in the city, the council decided to approve the changes.

The council moved on to the business items, where they discussed another pressing topic. After Bill Link’s retirement last month, the council had to figure out how they would like to fill the vacant position. According to AB 952, if a council member resigns before it is time to elect or re-elect their position, the city council has to fill the vacant seat until the next election. The question presented at the city council meeting was how the council would fill the vacant seat: by special election or by appointing someone to temporarily fill the vacancy. If the council were to hold a special election, the fiscal impact would cost them $66,000. Ultimately, the council decided to appoint a council member who would fill Link’s position until the November 2016 election.

Continuing with the meeting items, the council proposed no action on appointing someone to fill the vacancy in city committee groups. However, the council did motion the approval to sign a contract with Teaman, Ramirez & Smith Inc. for professional auditing services, and they also approved a funding agreement for the BEYOND framework fund program, as well as authorizing City Manager Nissen to sign the documents necessary for funding.

To conclude the evening, Bootsma stated that he would be attending the next State of the City Meeting and both Rush and Lorimore stated that they would continue their involvement in the Riverside Transmit Meetings.

The second council meeting was held on April 27, which began with proclaiming May 5th as the National Day of Prayer in Eastvale. The day is supposed to bring people together and create unification through “the power of prayer.”

After the proclamation, the Eastvale Community Foundation update included that the military banner program is still looking for more people to register for a military banner. Also mentioned was that the Community Foundation would be providing scholarships for ERHS students. City Manager, Michele Nissen, added that the scholarships, which are CDBG-funded, do include qualifications. These qualifications will soon be published on the city website.

Then, the Public Safety Commission Update included a report on the events of their last meeting, where residents discussed the topic of the CCTV program. This program involves setting up cameras in neighborhoods.

Before moving on, Michele Nissen introduced the council to the City’s newest Code Enforcement Officer, Vanessa Lopez, who has over 10 years of experience in Code Enforcement. Nissen also mentioned that she started as a police explorer at the age of 13. She has implemented several cleanup programs in the cities she has worked for, and at the moment, she is pursuing her Master’s Degree in Criminal Justice.

Next, the student liaison update was presented by Julia Sung. Sung announced the Relay for Life Event on Saturday, April 30 at River Heights Intermediate. She also announced that ERHS choir teacher, Mrs. Mendoza, will be retiring this year and that her final event with ERHS will take place on May 13. May 19 will also be Senior Award Night, where “very important guests” will arrive. Lastly, June 1 will be the ERHS graduation date.

Moving forward with the meeting, item 8.1 was taken off the agenda. Therefore, the council first focused on the recommendation to approve Parcel Map No. 36487. The plan will include 205 acres that will be used to build two one-million square feet of logistic facilities, and the second phase will focus on the construction of a hospital, park, and retail center. The council motioned the approval. The next two items were also approved: an agreement with Minigar & Associates Inc. to work on a truck route study and the City renewing their contract with Calfire.

The last discussion was about the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund (MALDF) that is threatening litigation because the city’s current at-large voting system violates California’s Voting Act Rights. In response, the city was presented with the possibility of establishing a by-district election system for the final item of the night. This recommendation presented two possibilities: the city could either be divided into 5 single-member districts, where each council member will serve and represent those districts; or the council could choose to divide the city into 4 districts, where a Mayor, who was elected at large, could serve for a 2-4 year term. Criteria for this division require the districts to be divided equally, with no more than a 10% deviation between districts, and the districts should be large based on the location where the council member resides. The districts will have to be redrawn every 10 years. At a minimum, this will cost $35,000 – 40,000. The council decided to divide the district into 5 sections. Read more about this decision in the article on page 1.

The meeting concluded after the city staff shared a few events they were looking forward to in the upcoming weeks.

Litigation Threat Changes Eastvale Elections

By Raymond Mendoza

Eastvale– Changes are in store for Eastvale for the upcoming November elections, as the Eastvale City Council recently voted to change its “at-large” system of city council elections to “by district” – meaning that council members must be elected from certain geographic areas within the city.

While the vote was 3-0 in favor of the change during the latest council meeting on April 27 (Councilmember Adam Rush was absent) the council members noted their decision was only made to appease litigation threats made by the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund.

According to Attorney Betsy Martin, the City of Eastvale received a letter from the group in April stating that they would sue the city if Eastvale did not switch to “by district” elections in time for the November 2016 election. The group claimed that the City of Eastvale’s current election system is violating the California Voting Rights Act of 2002.

According to a statement issued by the city, Eastvale is not the only city being threatened with litigation. Inland Empire cities such as Rancho Cucamonga, Wildomar, Hesperia, Chino and Upland all received the same demands regarding by-district elections.

“We recommend that you do (change to “by district” elections),” said Martin. “No city has ever successful defended a voting rights challenge.”

Martin went on to discuss how the California Voting Rights Act of 2002 is intended to ensure that “protected groups” – such as minority races – have their voting rights protected. Martin mentioned that the Mexican American Legal Defense and Educational Fund was alerted due to the efforts of an unknown Eastvale community member.

“Rather than spend a lot of money on fighting something that will certainly be a losing proposition, we suggest you go forward and draw your own districts as rapidly as possible,” said Martin.

During the June 2010 Eastvale incorporation election, 54 percent of the voters were in favor of “at-large” elections – which allowed anyone who lives within the city to run for city council. “By district” only received 27 percent of the votes.

Council Member Clint Lorimore voiced his distaste for the election changes, stating that breaking the city into districts would accomplish very little since there is no major racial divide from one area of Eastvale to the next.

“I want to express my frustration with this process,” Lorimore said. “I believe that we in Eastvale are a homogenous community. We’re not broken into specific areas where one ethnicity lives. It is not going to be helpful, in my opinion, for our city to do this.”

To push these changes ahead at an accelerated rate, city officials hired the National Demographics Corporation to study the city’s population and prepare draft plans for the proposed districts that also meet legal requirements. The draft of proposed districts will be available to the public this month on the city’s website and residents are also encouraged to voice their opinions concerning the new districts during its upcoming public hearings on May 11, May 25, and June 8.17

Girls Soccer Team Named Champions

Photo courtesy: Empire Soccer Club Congratulations to Empire Soccer Club’s SC G00 team who were named SCNPL Champions.

Photo courtesy: Empire Soccer Club
Congratulations to Empire Soccer Club’s SC G00 team who were named SCNPL Champions.

Staff Reports

Eastvale –Empire Soccer Club’s SC G00 team were announced as the Southern California National Premier League (SCNPL) Champions last month and will heading to the SCNPL finals.

The team went undefeated during their soccer season and won the GU15 league by 1 point. They had an overall record of five wins, zero losses, and two ties.

They were never scored on during their season because goalkeeper, Shelby Jimenez, had a clean sheet in every game, according to Empire Soccer Club.

They also have a hidden talent on their team, Alexis Gomez, who played for FC Man United G00 last season and won last year’s GU14 SCNPL. Gomez’ team last year represented Southern California in Indianapolis at the 2015 NPL Finals, according to Empire Soccer Club’s Facebook page.

As the winners of SCNPL, Empire’s SC G00 team is invited to the US Club Soccer National Premier League (NPL) Finals that is scheduled for July 14-18, in Aurora, CO. If you would like to help send the team to Colorado, you can visit their GoFundMe page at https://www.gofundme.com/2vhn6d52.

To view the other SCNPL competitors, visit http://www.nationalpremierleague.com/.

 

Eastvale Appoints New Councilmember

Photo courtesy: City of Eastvale Richard “Dickie” Simmons was sworn in at the Eastvale City Council meeting on May 11.

Photo courtesy: City of Eastvale
Richard “Dickie” Simmons was sworn in at the Eastvale City Council meeting on May 11.

By Michael Armijo

Eastvale – Richard “Dickie” Simmons was appointed as the newest Eastvale City Council member on May 11.

After Council members interviewed 10 candidates in order to fill Councilman William “Bill” Link’s vacant seat, Simmons was appointed with a 4-0 vote and was sworn in immediately.

Simmons, 67, is a community activist and volunteer that served as a field deputy for the County of Los Angeles Board of Supervisors for 17 years. Simmons also served in the U.S. Marine Corps and with the Los Angeles Police Department. However, Dickie is well known for his presence in the Inland Empire. He moved to Eastvale in 2002 and was so active in the Eastvale community that he was known as “Mr. Eastvale”.

With the resignation of Link in March, the Eastvale City Council opened up the “appointee process” last month. Link resigned because he moved out of the city, according to City Hall.

“The appointee will serve until this November 8th election,” said Mayor Ike Bootsma. “Then voters can choose a new city council member to serve the final two years of Bill’s (Link) term.”

This is the third time in 5½ years that the council appointed someone to replace a council member who resigned.

The council decided not to hold a special election because it would cost taxpayers over $60,000 to do so, according to City Hall. The earliest an election could take place would be August, so it makes sense to wait until the general election in November.

All appointees were required to be registered voters living in Eastvale. Each candidate gave a two-minute statement and was asked predetermined questions.

For more information, please sign onto www.eastvaleca.gov.

This article was updated by Eastvale News staff.

Did You Know?

Can you drive blindfolded? 

Staff Reports
Is distracted driving really a problem? YES! 80 percent of vehicle crashes involve some sort of driver inattention. Up to 3000 people nationwide are killed in crashes where driver distractions are involved, and thousands more are injured.

Distraction occurs any time you take your eyes off the road, your hands off the wheel, and your mind off your primary task: driving safely. Any non-driving activity you engage in is a potential distraction and increases your risk of crashing.

According to the CHP, sending or reading a text takes your eyes off the road for 5 seconds. At 55 mph, that’s like driving the length of an entire football field, blindfolded. Texting is the most alarming distraction because it involves manual, visual, and cognitive distraction simultaneously.

Some people still don’t know how dangerous distracted driving is. Others know about the risks of texting and talking while driving, but still choose to do so anyway. They make the mistake of thinking the statistics don’t apply to them, that they can defy the odds. Still others simply lead busy, stressful lives and use cell phones and smartphones to stay connected with their families, friends, and workplaces. They forget or choose not to shut these devices off when they get behind the wheel.

In 2008, California motorists were prohibited from talking on hand-held cellular phones while driving. A ban on texting while driving followed in 2009.  According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, all text-based communication, including e-mail and instant messaging, reading, writing or sending a text message are prohibited.  Both offenses carry $20 fines for first offenses and subsequent infractions are $50.  Be aware that additional fees and additional penalties can end up tripling the total fee amount. The convictions will appear on your driving record.  The law pertains to all drivers, regardless of age or state of residence.

There are special rules for young drivers, under the age of 18.  These new drivers are not allowed to use a wireless telephone, pager, laptop or any other electronic mobile device to speak or text while driving; this applies even if they intend on using a hands-free headset. The only exception to this new rule is in emergency situations to call police, fire or medical authorities.

The California Highway Patrol wants to remind you don’t become a statistic. Distracted driving is 100% preventable.

Thanks Mom!

Tim Eaton

Tim Eaton

By Pastor Tim Eaton

 

How often have you heard that?  Maybe not often enough.  Even when you have heard it, the thankfulness might not last long.  An even worse reality is that kids often say “Thanks Mom” sarcastically because they are not thankful at all.   You might say that most of the time, being a mom is a thankless task. That’s exactly why we have Mother’s Day. It’s not that we should say thank you only one day a year, but it’s a reminder to give moms thanks all year long.

Don’t worry. Wanting your children to say thank you isn’t a selfish desire – It’s a character building exercise for them.  God Himself gives the command: “Honor your father and your mother, so that you may live long in the land the Lord your God is giving you,” (Exodus 20:12). He even echo’s your own statement: “I brought you into this world and I’ll take you right back out of it.”  This is the only commandment with an “or else” clause.  Obviously, He takes it very seriously and knows just how little thanks you can get.

So picture this: You’ve done something incredibly nice for your children, which they may not deserve, but they end up being jewels and thank you for it.  How long do you have before they forget all about it?  Does it have something to do with how long they enjoy what you have done for them?

It sounds like you need a break.  And the kids need a gift that will last.  Why not bring them to Vacation Bible School at Edgewater?  You will have five nights with three hours of free time, and you won’t have to feed them!  They will get to hear about Jesus who loves them and promises, “Surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age,” (Matthew 28:20). Join us for VBS June 6th-10th from 4:30 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. each day. Free dinner is included!

Edgewater Lutheran Church meets Sundays at 10 a.m., worshipping at Harada Elementary, 12884 Oakdale Street, Eastvale, CA, 92880; http://www.EdgewaterLutheran.org.

Competitive Coverage To Meet Your Family’s Needs

Melanie Smith-Rice of State Farm Insurance in Norco.

Melanie Smith-Rice of State Farm Insurance in Norco.

Staff Reports

 

Norco – At the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office, 24-hour good neighbor service is at the forefront.  Smith-Rice is confident that she can meet your needs for all insurance and financial services, and promises to wow you with expert professional service.

A State Farm Agent since 1985 and a Corona resident since 1971, Smith-Rice understands the needs of the community and has worked hard to provide a palette of services that makes one-stop-shopping easy and affordable.  Along with Auto insurance, Smith-Rice provides Home Owners and Renters Insurance.

“A home is a big investment, so let’s make sure you have enough coverage at the right rate,” says Smith-Rice.  As well, protecting your personal property may be more affordable than you think.  “The average person has over $200,000 worth of stuff that is probably not covered under your landlord’s policy.  That’s where our State Farm Renters insurance comes into play,” she adds.

More important than the care of your property is the care of your family.  Along with Life Insurance, the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office can provide various types of health insurance, including Long-Term Care should you become unable to care for yourself.

And for the business owner, Smith-Rice says, “I understand the needs of a business owner like you.  Together we can help protect your business and plan a roadmap for your financial future.

As if all this weren’t enough, the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office can provide you with financial services such as Mutual Funds, Annuities, and even Banking (yes, Banking!), including Bank Accounts, Credit Cards, and Loans.

Don’t wait another minute to help ensure your family’s well being.  Call the Melanie Smith-Rice State Farm Office today, and get peace of mind in return.  A staff of professional experts is standing by at (951) 734-5290, or Toll-Free at (888) 734-5292.  They are located at 2027 River Road in Norco, in the Stater Bros. shopping center at Second Street and River Road.

A New Identity

Pastor Robert Jewett

Pastor Robert Jewett

By Pastor Robert Jewett

While some of us have tried our best to maintain our reputations, others have just flat out blown theirs.  Regardless if our reputation is solidly intact or if it has become like a stained garment that everyone has noticed, the gospel changes everything.  You see, no matter how hard you try to “be good”, your sin still separates you from God.  No matter how “bad” you have been, your sin is not beyond the forgiveness of God.

God’s revealed Word to us clearly informs us that there are none who are righteous because all have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:10-12, 23).  God does not measure what we perceive as our “bad” and our “good” and determine whether or not we merit forgiveness and eternity with him.  No matter how much “good” we think we have done, we have all broken God’s law and therefore deserve God’s righteous judgment.

Friend, the only one who is good is God.   He alone is merciful and loving and draws man unto himself to receive his grace and forgiveness of sins.  He calls us to repent from our sins and to place our hope and trust in Jesus Christ.  When we do this, we get a new identity.  No longer do we represent ourselves…we now represent Jesus. God’s word says, “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come” (2 Cor. 5:17).

If you have repented of your sins and placed your trust in Jesus, live out your faith for the glory of God.  If you have yet to repent and trust in Jesus, I encourage you do so now and start your new identity in Christ today.

Lakeshore City Church meets Sundays at 10:00 a.m. at Circle City Center (formerly Fender Museum), 365 N. Main St. in Corona. For more information, visit lakeshorecitychurch.com.

Lincoln Avenue On-Ramp Will Be Two Lanes

Courtesy of RCTC

CORONA– As part of the Riverside County Transportation Commission’s (RCTC) 91 Project, the westbound 91 Lincoln Avenue on-ramp will be reconfigured from three lanes to two general purpose lanes through the end of 2016. The ramp meter will be turned off during this time.

The reconfiguration will allow crews to work on the new westbound 91 Lincoln Avenue on-ramp that will connect directly from the Lincoln Avenue bridge.

For questions, please call the helpline at 877-770-9191, or visit http://www.sr91project.info.  Please allow extra travel time to access this ramp, especially during morning peak commute hours.

Marching Orders

rob-norris-BW-2x2By Pastor Rob Norris

 

For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers . . . the powers . . . the world forces of this darkness.
Ephesians 6:12

Whether you realize it or not, you are engaged in a spiritual battle every day. You live in a culture that is increasingly hostile to your faith. The devil and those who promote his self-indulgent agenda are relentless in their assault on your mind and affections. You can’t afford to drop your guard for a minute.

Here are some suggestions for surviving—and thriving—in the battle:

  1. Don’t engage the enemy alone. Ephesians 6:10 says, “Be strong in the Lord and in the strength of His might.” Whatever temptations you’re facing right now, it is His strength alone—not yours—that can see you through. Keep on surrendering daily to the Master.
  2. Employ every piece of your spiritual armor. As Ephesians 6:13 says, to resist the schemes of the devil, you must “take up the full armor of God.” Not just the belt of truth, but also the shoes of His gospel, the breastplate of His righteousness, the shield of faith, the helmet of His salvation and the sword of His Spirit—the Word of God (see verses 14-17). Don’t head off into battle without them.
  3. Go on the offensive. It’s not enough just to play defense. Though people without Christ may seem fulfilled and self-satisfied, the truth is that they need to know God’s forgiveness.
  4. Quit wasting time. You and I are fighting for the soul of future generations. So turn off the television. Put down the sports page. Unplug from the internet. The consequences of your life are too eternal to waste on forgettable moments.

Never forget that your marriage is taking place on a spiritual battlefield, not on a romantic balcony. Help one another maintain your “war footing.” If you do, you won’t be a casualty.

Live It: Identify two or three areas where the constant pull of the world has been wearing down your spiritual sharpness lately. Talk about what you need to do.

Pray:  Pray for strength when you’re weak, attentiveness when you’re tired and new discoveries of what it means to put your trust in God.

The Crossings meets Sundays at 10 a.m. at River Heights Intermediate School, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale.    For more information, visithttp://www.atthecrossings.com

Three Arrested In Connection To San Bernardino Terrorist Attack

Three People Connected to Shooter in San Bernardino Terrorist Attack Arrested on Federal Conspiracy, Marriage Fraud and False Statement Charges

By Thom Mrozek, Public Affairs Officer of the United States Attorney’s Office
RIVERSIDE, California – Three people with family connections to Syed Rizwan Farook, one of the perpetrators of the December 2, 2015 terrorist attack at the San Bernardino Inland Regional Center (IRC), were arrested this morning on federal conspiracy, marriage fraud and false statement charges.
A five-count indictment returned yesterday by a federal grand jury charges three defendants in a marriage fraud conspiracy that involved making false statements under oath for the purpose of obtaining immigration benefits for one of the defendants.
The three defendants arrested this morning are:
• Mariya Chernykh, 26, of Ontario, who, according to official records, is married to Enrique Marquez, Jr., who is awaiting trial on charges of conspiring with Syed Rizwan Farook in 2011 and 2012 to provide material support to terrorists;
• Tatiana Farook, 31, of Corona, who is Chernykh’s sister; and
• Syed Raheel Farook, 31, of Corona, who Tatiana Farook’s husband and Syed Rizwan Farook’s brother.
The indictment charges all three defendants in a conspiracy to knowingly make under oath a false statement with respect to a material fact in an application, affidavit, and other document required by the immigration laws and regulations of the United States. This charge carries a statutory maximum sentence of five years in federal prison.
The indictment also charges Chernykh with fraud and misuse of visas, permits, and other documents; perjury; and two counts of making material false statements to federal agents. These four charges carry a combined statutory maximum sentence of 25 years in federal prison.
When Marquez was indicted by a federal grand jury at the end of 2015 with conspiring with Syed Rizwan Farook to provide material support to terrorists, he was also charged with entering into a sham marriage with Chernykh in November 2014 and illegally signing an immigration form that falsely declared he was living with her (see: http://go.usa.gov/cuKEm).

“This is the latest step in the comprehensive investigation into the horrific attacks in San Bernardino last year that took the lives of 14 innocent Americans and deeply affected so many more,” said United States Attorney Eileen M. Decker. “As I have said previously, we owe the victims, and the entire community of San Bernardino, a thorough investigation that uncovers all criminal activity surrounding these events. Today’s arrests open a new phase in the process of bringing to justice all individuals who allegedly committed crimes that were uncovered during our exhaustive investigation. The charges also reflect the importance we place on statements made to law enforcement officials during a terrorism investigation. Those who lie to or conceal material information from law enforcement officers investigating terrorist acts will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Acting Assistant Director of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office, James Struyk, said, “Members of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force worked around the clock in an attempt to find immediate answers in the days and weeks following the December murders in San Bernardino to ensure no additional threats to the community were present. As proof of our enduring commitment to the victims and their families, the FBI and our partners will continue to pursue all leads developed in this matter to build cases when evidence of a crime is revealed.”
Joseph Macias, Special Agent in Charge U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Los Angeles, stated: “Last year’s tragedy in San Bernardino showed yet again how our nation’s legal immigration system can be subverted and exploited by those intent on doing this country harm. As the second largest presence on the nation’s Joint Terrorism Task Forces, HSI special agents, in collaboration with their JTTF partners, are using their unique skills and authorities, including their immigration expertise, to pursue individuals and organizations that pose a threat to domestic security. As this case underscores, that vigilance extends to those whose actions directly or indirectly put our communities and our country at risk.”
The case against Chernykh and the Farooks stems from the overall investigation into the IRC terrorist attack. While investigating the terrorist attack, federal agents obtained official records showing that Marquez, a former neighbor of Syed Rizwan Farook’s, is married to Chernykh. The investigation determined that Marquez agreed to marry Chernykh so she could obtain immigration benefits that were not available to her because she is a Russian citizen and did not have legal status in the United States. The indictment alleges that Marquez received money from Chernykh to enter into the sham marriage.
In furtherance of this conspiracy, both Marquez and Chernykh signed immigration documents, under penalty of perjury, that included information that they lived at the same address, when they did not.
Syed Raheel Farook and Tatiana Farook participated in the conspiracy by, among other things, witnessing Marquez and Chernykh’s wedding, taking staged family pictures of Marquez and Chernykh, establishing a joint checking account for Marquez and Chernykh, and creating a back-dated lease for Marquez and Chernykh to create the illusion that they shared a marital residence with Syed Raheel Farook and Tatiana Farook.
FBI agents interviewed Chernykh as part of the investigation into the IRC terrorist attacks, and she allegedly made false statements that she lived with Marquez at Syed Raheel Farook and Tatiana Farook’s residence in Corona.
All three defendants are expected to be arraigned on the indictment this afternoon in United States District Court in Riverside.
An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in court.
Today’s operation is the result of an ongoing investigation by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, which includes partners with HSI, the San Bernardino Police Department, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the Ontario Police Department, the Riverside Police Department, the Corona Police Department and the Chino Police Department.

Socially Speaking

By Sarah Sanchez

Is it April already? If you were too busy in March to keep up on social media, we’ve provided a list of what was trending on our Facebook page (Facebook.com/EastvaleCommunityNews) last month.

Trending posts included: An armed robbery suspect was arrested; the CNUSD Spelling Bee Champion Aisha Randhawa is now going to the Scripps National Spelling Bee; Eleanor Roosevelt High School Cheer Team won the National Championship at the All Star Cheer Jamz Nationals; and a reminder of an Eastvale anti-scavenging ordinance.

However, the most popular post on social media was a video that a resident shared with us on our Facebook page. The video was a security camera that caught three suspicious men pulling up to the residents’ home in a BMW 6 series and Honda Odyssey Van, rang the doorbell, claimed to be the police, and allegedly tried to kick the door down. The resident asked for the community’s help in finding the three individuals and many community members shared the video to spread the word.

Stay up to date on what’s happening in the community by liking our Facebook page (Facebook.com/EastvaleCommunityNews). We post a variety of articles, meetings, city news releases, yard sales, and events on a daily basis. Every Thursday, we post notices of local yard sales for the weekend and allow you to post your own yard sale notice in the comments. On Fridays, we post the weekend events and link it to our local monthly calendar. We also post the online version of the full Eastvale Community Newspaper for you to download, save, or print out.

Don’t forget to follow us on Instagram at @EastvaleNews, and subscribe to our website at anapr.com for daily emails regarding our community. Use #ILoveEastvaleNews to tell us why YOU love Eastvale News.

Keep on Trending, Eastvale!

Tips From Deputy Myers

Deputy Myers

Deputy Myers

How can I start or join a Neighborhood Watch near my home?

By Deanna Myers

This is still a hot topic, so I thought a refresher would be beneficial. There are six basic steps to getting a neighborhood watch program started within your community.

Step 1- Create Awareness. Start a buzz in the neighborhood about keeping it safe. Many people nowadays, with all the modern technology, have started to disconnect from their neighbors. Communication starts with a wave and a smile, followed by starting to talk about your concern for continued safety within your community.

Step 2- Organize Volunteers. Once you have started a buzz, neighbors often begin sharing their personal information in order to become more involved. Gather their information and set up a neighborhood meeting with them.

Step 3- Coordinate with Law Enforcement- this is where I come in. I will provide a short Power Point presentation and an activity for your neighbors. I will give them the tools they need to combat current issues in the neighborhood and keep those issues from returning.

Step 4- Identify Concerns, Issues and Problems. Once the group has been formed and they have had time to think about the new tools they have been given, it’s time to discuss where the problems are in your neighborhood. It is best to prioritize the concerns of the volunteers so they can all get addressed in a timely manner.

Step 5- Develop Strategies. Six heads are better than one. As your group comes together, you can start to come up with ways in which to deal with issues. Having additional people from different backgrounds that come with different resources can be invaluable in eradicating problems in your neighborhood.

Step 6-Action Steps.  Depending on the severity of the problems that arise in your neighborhood, there are several different ways to attack the issues. Planning activities such as clean-up days, neighborhood patrols, and joining social groups such as www.nextdoor.com are just a few of the ways to bring your neighborhoods closer and keep people involved. IF YOU SEE SOMETHING SAY SOMETHING!

 

Deanna Myers is the Volunteer and Programs Coordinator for the Jurupa Valley Station of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department that services the Eastvale Police Department.  She has been with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department for about eight years, and most recently was assigned to patrol within the City of Eastvale before moving into her current position where she is in charge of the Neighborhood Watch program for the City of Eastvale.

Norco College Turns 25!

Photo courtesy: Norco College

Photo courtesy: Norco College
Norco College students form the number “25” to help celebrate Norco’s Silver Anniversary

Staff Reports

NORCO– Norco College celebrated its 25th Silver Anniversary last month with a group photo, a time-capsule opening and a western-style jamboree.

Norco College, a branch of Riverside City College, first opened in 1991. Riverside Community College leaders first began to dream about a branch campus in the area in the early 1970s. On June 4, 1985, that dream was realized when more than 141 acres of U.S. government-owned land—the site of what would become Norco College—were acquired by RCCD for one dollar to build a satellite campus.

The campus was expected to open in 1989, but funding and construction delays pushed the date to 1991. On March 13 of that year, two classrooms in the Student Services and Little Theatre buildings were ready for students, and about 15 short-term classes in economics, philosophy, public speaking, and a handful of other traditional academic disciplines were held on campus that spring semester. (Approximately 100 other classes that began in January were taught in Norco area high schools and a church, as they had been for years.) The formal opening of the full campus (with two more classrooms: Science and Technology and Humanities) took place in the fall of 1991— coinciding with the 75th anniversary of Riverside City College.

The celebration, which included music, a snow cone truck, a birthday cake and real horses, brought in to represent the Norco Mustangs, was just part of the fun for students.  A large group of students had their photo taken on the quad as they stood in the shape of the number “25”.

Norco College freshman Jennifer Lyn, who was part of the photo, said that she “loves Norco College and its small feel.  All of the teachers and staff truly want to help students succeed.”

A time capsule left by the 1991-1992 Norco student body was opened on March 10.  Math Professor Bob Prior, who was also the Student Activities Coordinator in the early years of RCC’s Norco Campus, led the unveiling with special guest Pedro Argumendo, retired Grounds staff, who helped bury the time capsule in the 1990’s.  Included in the capsule were Norco College flags, a university-edition Bible, a student I.D., a photo CD and a convocation booklet, among other items.

On March 12, Norco College continued its 25-Year Anniversary celebration with a western-style jamboree that included individuals from the cities of Norco and Corona, RCCD Board of Trustee members, and current and past employees of the college.

Local Company Looks To Help Others In Need

Staff Reports

According to The Knot, which is the #1 wedding site in the nation, the average cost of a wedding is $33,118, with nearly $5500 of that money going towards creative services such as providing a DJ, photographer, and videographer.  The average cost to throw an event in California with the same services ranges from $5,000 to $40,000!

With high costs and high demand for these services, a local company began thinking of ways in which they could leverage those services listed, while giving back to local and global communities around us that are in need!

Remedy Collective plans to use creative services in DJ’ing, photography, and videography in order to provide excellent service and an opportunity to help change people’s lives in the process.

For every event they provide services for, they are going to have an opportunity to provide remedy (cure, help, aid) and provide impact to a local or global outreach.

For global impact they are going to provide rent for families serving in unreached, unchartered villages overseas for an entire month.

For local impact, they are going to provide food for people that live in lower social-economic areas, or who are homeless and living on the streets and or shelters!

Remedy Collective’s mission is “Healing Culture with Creativity” and their hope is that through their creative gifts, they can provide ways to give back and love on today’s culture. “Every good and perfect gift comes from above, and we just want to use our gifts to point to Jesus. So we invite you to join us as we seek to provide a remedy to this world!”

Be a part of Remedy Collective’s cause by supporting their campaign, which will help them purchase the resources and equipment they need for several upcoming events in the near future. This will also finalize their insurance and web development. Also check out their video on their GoFundMe account at: https://www.gofundme.com/4dzpjft8

All donations are greatly appreciated. But if you provide a $50 donation, you will receive a Remedy Logo Sticker.  If you provide a $100 donation, you will receive a limited Remedy Collective T-shirt. And for a $500 donation, you will receive DJ/emcee services for 5 hours!

Don’t Give Up

Dennis Morales X-ORIGBy Pastor Dennis Morales

Galatians 6:9 “And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.”
Thomas A. Edison was the most prolific inventor in modern times—perhaps ever. He made scores of attempts to invent the light bulb.
After an unsuccessful effort, one of his associates said, “Well, you have failed again.
“No,” replied Edison, “I have succeeded again. I now know another way how not to invent a light bulb.”
After 10,000 attempts, Edison had every reason to be discouraged. However, he had the ability to turn what many saw as failure into fuel for success. God’s desire for you is to succeed and be fruitful in life. The Devil would have you to focus on the failure and measure success by world standards. This can be exhausting. Whether it is a ministry, a business, a college plan, being a teacher, or being a parent, be faithful in what you do. God reminds us that success will come, if we don’t lose heart. Sometimes to appreciate success, we may experience pressure or failure. Dwell on the blessing to come. In nature, as well as in our lives, there are different seasons. We have seasons to plow and seasons to reap blessing.
Remember it was “Jesus, for the joy that was set before Him, endured the Cross” (Hebrews 12:2). The joy Jesus had was in knowing He would soon be seeing victory over death and the blessing of lasting relationship with you. It’s a great privilege to do Gods work. Don’t grow weary. “You can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.” (Philippians 4:13)
Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30am, and Wednesdays, 7:00pm at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale). Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Eastvale Community News Complete Edition April 2016

2016-04-EastvaleNews-COVERThe Eastvale Community News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco, Corona, and Chino. Click the following link to access the complete issue in pdf format: 2016-04-EastvaleNews-WEB