Category Archives: Eastvale Community News

A BOLD New Year

By Pastor Tim Eaton

 

pastor -tim-eaton-edgewater-lutheren

Pastor-Tim-Eaton-Edgewater-Lutheren

Another year has come and gone. What do you have to show for it? Did you grasp your goals for 2014, or have they eluded you? What held you back? Did you come close – taste them, perhaps – and then shrink back? Was it a year of boldness or of timidity?

If you answered yes to those last two questions, please, read on! Maybe you have heard about Jesus being meek and mild and want to emulate Him. But is that what He calls us to be? Let’s look at His example:  “He humbled Himself, becoming obedient unto death, even to the death of the cross,” (Philippians 2:8)

But what does humbled mean? It does not mean that He believed less than the truth about Himself. Rather, it means He gave Himself in service to others.

A humble athlete doesn’t say, “I’m no good!” Instead, he says, “I will use my gift to serve the team!” That’s what Jesus has done for us, and calls us to do for others. He doesn’t call us to think less of ourselves. Quite the opposite, Jesus constantly calls his followers to step up and live the value He sees in them.

Maybe you feel like you don’t deserve what you are striving for. Are you concerned that God has turned a deaf ear to your prayers because of things you have done in the past? Quite the contrary! Jesus’ humble act of sacrifice has washed away all of these things. We have freedom from the shackles of past mistakes and missteps. Instead we have, “Boldness and confidence through our faith in Him.” (Ephesians 3:12).

So step boldly into 2015 with Jesus and call upon Him in times of need, hope, and joy!

Be BOLD and join us Sundays at Edgewater.

Edgewater Lutheran Church, worshipping at Harada Elementary, is located at 12884 Oakdale Street, Eastvale, CA, 92880. Contact them at (951) 479-5575, or visit their website at www.EdgewaterLutheran.org.

Eastvale: What It Means To Be A Police Officer

By LEAFF (Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters)

 

leaff-logo            Eastvale – Have you ever heard the saying, “If you want to be loved, be a firefighter; and if you want to be hated, be a cop?”  It seems that in today’s world and with recent cases in the news – including the brutal execution of two New York Police Officers – this has never been more true. However, let us take the time to really think about what it takes to be a Police Officer and reflect on that this year.

In 2014, 113 police officers were killed in the line of duty. These courageous men and women will never see their families, friends, or co-workers again and all for the service of others. While there may be “bad apples” in the bunch, the facts are that there are far more “good” cops that go to work each day and work vigilantly to uphold the law.

Representatives like Officer Stacy from Alabama, who caught a women stealing from a grocery store to feed her kids because she was short 50 cents to buy a dozen eggs. Instead of arresting her, he went back into the store and bought her a carton of eggs. Later, he brought her two truckloads of food. These stories don’t always get told.

What about Hamburg Officer, Joe Bloom, who helped a family with a disabled child get her medicine during the terrible storms on the East Coast?  Or Officer Briggs, who talked a man out of jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge.

Police Officers do much more than arrest criminals, write tickets and patrol the streets. Often, they go above and beyond to keep your family safe and to help those that others may walk by.

On behalf of all citizens, THANK YOU to our Law Enforcement Officers who go out and do the right thing each day. We appreciate what you do.

In 2015, take the time to be thankful for all the good Police Officers out there who deserve your respect and admiration.

 

CNUSD Boundary Updates

Staff Reports

Ronald Reagan Elementary under construction last October.

Ronald Reagan Elementary under construction last October. (Jennifer Jester-Madrigal)

Eastvale — With the 2015-2016 school year opening of Ronald Reagan Elementary School set to happen in July 2015, some school boundaries within Eastvale have changed. Clara Barton, Harada, and Eastvale Elementary Schools will see the majority of the change, as some of Regan’s new attendance will pull from those directions.

The new boundaries will be discussed in detail at parent meetings to be held at these Eastvale locations, as follows:

 

  • 14, 2015, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Eastvale Elementary School, 13031 Orange Street
  • 21, 2015, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Barton Elementary School, 7437 Corona Valley Avenue

 

Parents wishing to apply for transfers, as well as open enrollment, for Reagan Elementary need to complete a transfer request by filing out the proper forms. According to the CNUSD website, if you live in the CNUSD attendance area, you will need to complete a transfer request by filling out the proper form.

Map of Barton to Reagan attendance. Please visit the CNUSD website to see maps for other schools. (Image Courtesy of CNUSD)

Map of Barton to Reagan attendance. Please visit the CNUSD website to see maps for other schools. (Image Courtesy of CNUSD)

If you are currently attending a school on a transfer, you do not need to renew that transfer to remain at that school. As long as you maintain continuous residency in the Corona-Norco Unified School District, your transfer shall continue until your child receives a transfer to a new school or leaves the district.

Please note, if your 6th or 8th Grader is attending a transfer school, they will matriculate to the intermediate or high school based on your residence address.

If you live outside the CNUSD attendance area, you will need to renew your transfer permit annually. You must obtain a release from your home school district and submit it to the CNUSD District Office, Student Services, between Dec. 1, 2014 and Jan. 15, 2015.

Applications for School of Choice transfers (between CNUSD schools) may be obtained at the CNUSD District Office, 2820 Clark Avenue, Norco, CA, 92860, (951) 736-5111.  Applications may also be downloaded from the CNUSD website at www.cnusd.k12.ca.us/forms.

Please visit the CNUSD website for transfer forms and additional details: http://www.cnusd.k12.ca.us/Page/741.

PLEASE NOTE: Completed applications may be returned to the District Office.  Parents with children who attend Barton, Eastvale or Harada should visit the website to view the maps to determine if their child will be attending another school.

SCE To Ontario: No TRTP Undergrounding

Tehachapi Renewable Transmission Project (Photo Courtesy: City of Ontario)

Tehachapi Renewable Transmission Project (Photo Courtesy: City of Ontario)

By K.P. Sander

Ontario – The Tehachapi Renewable Transmission Project (TRTP) has been under construction since September of 2013.  The Project’s objective is to deliver electricity from new wind farms in the Tehachapi area to Southern California Edison (SCE) customers in an effort to meet the State’s renewable energy goal of 33 percent by the year 2020.

 

There have been some ups and downs for SCE along the construction way.  The City of Chino Hills was granted a tower undergrounding proposal by the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) in July of 2013.  The decision for this approval stated that the burden imposed on the City by the overhead power lines was unfair and contrary to community values.  Chino Hills was granted the removal of a 3.5 mile tower section, and an underground cabling replacement.  This approval cost TRTP an additional $224 million, on top of the over $2 billion budget that will ultimately be passed on to ratepayers.

 

In a déjà vu-like attempt, the City of Ontario has stated that their situation is as bad, if not worse, than Chino Hills’.  When TRTP erected Ontario’s towers in April, the impact suddenly became very apparent.

 

Ontario reportedly asked for a stay of constructionto sort things out, and the CPUC allowed legal proceedings to be reopened in October.

 

According to the City of Ontario, they filed an amended petition with the CPUC on Nov. 21 in order to modify the 500kV lines from tower construction to undergrounding – specifically Segment 8 of the Project.

 

With TRTP employing multiple public proceedings prior to construction, SCE is reportedly questioning why the City of Ontario did not come forward at that time, rather than after the fact. If the community is somewhat shocked as to the appearance of the towers and the proximity to new housing developments, more due diligence should have been completed up front. In essence, SCE’s answer to Ontario is, “No.”

 

Most recently, in a document submitted to the CPUC on Dec. 5, SCE attorney Angela Whatley stated, “A party that has not engaged in the proceedings should not be able to derail this crucial project at such a late stage in development.”

 

In October and November, legal staff at the City of Ontario consulted with the City of Chino Hills, and on Dec. 9, the Ontario City Council approved the hiring of an Environmental Engineer to review and analyze California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) Mitigation Measures Compliance by SCE.  Council also approved the hiring of a Utilities Consultant to review and analyze easements for compliance and any title issues.

 

SCE filed requests on Dec. 5 that CPUC deny the City’s petition to underground, and to deny the construction stay.  On Dec. 15, Ontario filed documents to the contrary.

 

As it stands now, the CPUC will consider the documents filed by all parties in accordance with this case.  TRTP states that the CPUC is expected to rule on the requests within the next few months, with further hearings, as well as an absolute decision, a possibility.

 

TRTP is scheduled to be completed in 2016.

 

Culture Night At ERHS

Students in camaraderie, singing “Lean On Me.” (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

Students in camaraderie, singing “Lean On Me.” (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

By Emily Aguilar

 

Eastvale – Because of its diverse alumni, Eleanor Roosevelt High School ensures that each student is given the opportunity to embrace not only the cultures of others, but that of their own as well. This environment has allowed cultures to blend with one another like peaches and cream, unifying ERHS into a strong student body.

 

In order to pay homage to these various cultures, ERHS’s prominent club, CSF (California Scholarship Federation), held its bi-annual Culture Night festival on Dec. 4.

 

Culture Night is a show meant to represent students’ traditional cultural practices through artistic performances. Before 6 p.m., the Mustang Theater was filled with supportive family and friends who wanted to see their loved ones represent their culture.

 

The evening began with a slideshow of students speaking about their cultures and giving the audience a preview of their performances. Following this introduction, the fun began. The performances in dance ranged from Folkloric, to the Chinese Ribbon Dance, to Polynesian and American jazz; and songs were performed from Korea and the Philippines.

 

Among the performances, one of the most memorable was the Bhangra Dance, which electrified the audience with its upbeat tempo and passionate movement. After captivating the audience with his group, one of the dancers, Shukan Patel stated, “I feel as if the audience was able to feel the energy and pride of the Indian culture through the fast-paced, coordinated moves to traditional music. I feel as if this performance allowed for the audience to experience the Punjabi festival of Vaisakhi’s (Harvest Festival) joy through our dance performance.”

 

Before the evening ended, CSF Coordinator, Frank Mata, went on stage and spoke to the audience about how working at ERHS as an AP Language and Composition teacher has introduced him to stupendous students. He expressed his admiration toward his students, because in spite of their stress with college and grades, they never fail to lose touch with who they are.

 

“I am proud of them – they’re not just students at that point. They become respectable young men and women who make it their privilege to pay homage to their culture in this all too foreign land,” Mata said.

 

After his small speech, Mata invited all of the performers on stage to sing Bill Withers’ famous song, “Lean On Me.” Captivated by the unification of their friends and children, the audience joined in and become a single voice, giving an appropriate ending to the evening.

Let It Go

By Pastor Mark Lee

 

pastor-mark-leeUnless you have been living under a rock for the past 12 months, chances are you are aware of the pop culture phenomenon known as Frozen. Disney’s 53rd animated feature has broken box office records, raked in more than $1 billion, and captured the hearts of nearly every little girl in the country. Much of the movie’s appeal can be credited to its catchy soundtrack. And, one particular song has emerged as a fan favorite: “Let It Go.”

As we settle into the New Year, this catchy number offers some good advice. Many of us are carrying the baggage of 2014 with us into 2015. Whether we have a long list of regrets or a catalog of mistakes, the disappointments of the past can prevent us from embracing the future. In fact, even our successes and accomplishments have the ability to hold us back.

In order to move forward, we have to stop focusing on what has happened and instead focus on what happens next. After all, it is impossible to successfully drive down the freeway if we are constantly looking in the rearview mirror. Obsessing about the past is a fruitless endeavor because we can’t control or change what has already happened. It is simply a waste of time.

Isaiah 43:18-19 tells us to “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” The amazing truth about God is that he is far more interested in our future than he is in our past.

So, in the words of the popular Disney song, we need to “let it go” and take advantage of the many opportunities for growth, change, and progress that the New Year brings!

 

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 8:30, 10, and 11:30 a.m.

 

Eastvale’s Search For A City Manager

By Jennifer Jester-Madrigal

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale is looking to find a City Manager. According to the City’s website, “The new City Manager will be a dedicated public servant who supports and implements the policies of the City Council, understands and supports Eastvale’s community values and will maintain the City’s high quality of life while proactively and effectively spearheading economic development.”
Candidates were encouraged to apply for the position by Jan. 6 and need to have either City Manager/Senior Level experience with either a contract or full service city, and a stable four-year employment history. A Bachelor’s Degree is required; a Master’s Degree is preferred. The salary will be based on qualifications and ultimately decided by the Eastvale City Council.

The permanent position of City Manager has been vacant since Carol Jacob resigned last year. Previous City Manager, Robert Van Nort, has been filling the position since September 2014. Assistant City Manager, Michele Nissen, also stepped into fill the position while Van Nort was on medical leave for a short time.

In an effort to learn more about what the residents of Eastvale desire in a City Manager, the Eastvale News conducted a brief survey on Facebook to find out more.

One of the questions asked was, “What characteristics should a City Manager have?” The most popular answer was that they should be a resident of the City, with a high degree in education (or be in the process of achieving one).

Another question asked, was “How much money do you think the City Manager should make?” Previous City Manager Jacobs made about $206,000 annually, whereas the average City Manager makes about $219,000, but there are variables to consider. The most common response was $150,000, and many felt that with the size of Eastvale, a larger salary was not necessary. Others felt that our city can’t afford to pay more than that and still maintain the quality and the services that are needed in the City.

Sometimes, averages in salaries aren’t necessarily comparing apples to apples. Eastvale utilizes an outside water district and parks/recreation department; two significant areas of accountability that many other City Managers oversee. Without those key responsibilities, perhaps Eastvale citizens are correct in their opinions on a lesser salary.

In two other cities that were recently incorporated, just like Eastvale, the City Manager salaries seem to be more in line with popular opinion. In nearby Jurupa Valley, Interim City Manager, Gary Thompson, makes about $150,000. In the City of Menifee, City Manager, Robert Johnson, makes $175,000 annually.

One issue that seemed to be at the forefront of what residents thought the new City Manager should focus on, is Traffic. Eastvale seems to be plagued with traffic issues mainly centering on speeding and pedestrian safety. Although the City and Law Enforcement have made big strides in working to ease the problems, many residents still feel that this is a major issue. Many citizens feel that “too many big rigs use our streets as their personal thoroughfares,” and that “we need an ordinance limiting the weight of vehicles within City limits”.

Others feel that Finances are a major issue and that the City Manager needs to “make this City financially stable and keep our costs down so we can hire our own police department”.
For others, the focus should be on crime. According to one citizen, “If we focus on crime, it will cover a lot of the other problems as well”.

The difference with a city like Eastvale versus many others is that Eastvale citizens are involved and vocal. Most citizens just seem to want a safe and sound city where they can raise their children and send them to our wonderful schools.

Thank you to all those who responded to the Facebook poll, and best wishes to Eastvale’s future “Chief Executive Officer,” whoever you are!

To view the details of the job description and brochure, visit the Employment Page on the City of Eastvale website: http://www.eastvaleca.gov.

K.P. Sander contributed to this story.

Eastvale Boys In Supercross Challenge

Mikey Wayne and Jett Lessing airborne. (Photo By: Kimberly Lessing)

Caption: Mikey Wayne and Jett Lessing airborne. (Photo By: Kimberly Lessing)

By Kimberly Lessing

Eastvale – Two local Eastvale boys will compete in the KTM Junior Supercross Challenge at Anaheim Stadium this month.

Mikey Wayne, a 2nd Grade student at Clara Barton Elementary, will represent Eastvale and race the KTM Junior Challenge on Jan. 17; and Jett Lessing, a 3rd Grade student at Rosa Parks Elementary, will race on Jan. 31.

KTM North America, Inc., located in Murrieta, provides an amazing experience for youth racers to compete in the KTM Junior Supercross Challenge (KJSC) Program, the popular intermission show of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship. In order to qualify for the KJSC, the racers must have at least one year of racing experience, excel in school, and meet specific height and weight requirements.

The KJSC is an exciting intermission program where 15 selected youth riders race aboard KTM 50 SXS motorcycles at select Monster Energy AMA Supercross events all over the nation. Throughout the day, riders get to go on a track walk, participate in two practice sessions, sign autographs for their fans, be introduced during opening ceremonies and race a three-lap exhibition race during the Supercross night program.

“This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity for the boys and we are excited to cheer for Mikey and Jett as they represent Eastvale!” said Jenna Wayne, Mikey’s mother.

Children from all over the world apply to compete in this event, and it is extremely rare that two boys from Eastvale were able to qualify and be selected.
Mikey and Jett train and race weekly at local motocross venues in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. While the boys battle each other on the track, they are great friends off the track and even train together with legendary motorcycle coach, Kelly Yancey, of Kelly Yancey Motocross Training (www.kellyyancey.com).
With the support of their friends, families, sponsors, and Coach Yancey, the boys are ready to take on Supercross at Anaheim Stadium! You can follow Mikey and Jett on their exciting adventure on Instagram (@MikeyWayne999 and @JettLessing) or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Mwayne999 and http://www.facebook.com/JettLessing.

Mikey Wayne’s Sponsors include: OC KTM, Dunlop, Nost Suspension, Intuitive Race Products, Factory Effex DWC Motorsports, GDG Builders, Orange County Locksmith, Accurate Circuit Engineering, Nihilo Concepts, R&D Racing, Atlas Brace, Spy Optics, Streamline Brakes, One Industries, Choice Hotels, Bell Helmets, ASV, Lucas Oil, and Pax Racing.

Jett Lessing’s Sponsors include: Troy Lee Designs, Malcolm Smith Motorsports, EKS Brand Goggles, 6D Helmets, Lucas Oil, Dunlop Tires, Nihilo Concepts, Risk Racing, Factory Backing, Engine Ice, ODI Grips, Sunset Sign Designs, Nost Suspension, Midpoint Bearing and RJforklift.com.

Eastvale: Rocks and Rubies

By Jennifer Jester-Madrigal

 

eastvale-rocks-and-rubies

Children from Rosarito, Mexico express their gratitude to Eastvale sponsors. (Photo Courtesy: Mikie Gettel De Vergara)

The following incidents are shared by members of our community, and are anonymous acknowledgments to the great (and not so great) things that happen around town.

RUBIES to the more than 20 Eastvalians who sponsored children from Rosarito, Mexico; your gifts and love were delivered!

RUBIES to our wonderful Mayor and his Santa Clause connection for making my boys feel so comfortable and happy during such a rough time!

RUBIES to the nice lady who paid for our entire Jack-in-the-Box order; it helped me more than you will ever know.

RUBIES to all the teachers that go the extra mile every day for our kids who need a little extra attention; we notice!

ROCKS to the people that still continue to speed and almost took me and my daughter out on the corner of Harrison and Citrus!

ROCKS to the thieves that steal Christmas decorations.  Really? That’s not the spirit!

ROCKS to the man who posted that the creep exposing himself on the Riverwalk Trail was just engaging in a crime against “prudish nature”!  Get a clue, man!!!

 

 

Eastvale: City Council Meeting Recap

Staff Reports

 

Eastvale-council-members-sworn-in

Clint Lorimore, Adam Rush, and William Link are sworn in as official Eastvale council members. (Photos By: Karen Patel)

Eastvale  For the month of December, there was only one City Council meeting. The meeting took place at Rosa Parks Elementary with all council members attending.

Prior to the meeting, new and re-elected council members Clint Lorimore, Adam Rush and William Link (respectively) were sworn into their positions.  The meeting was attended by all council members and started promptly at 6:30 p.m.

Christopher Hook, the new Public Safety Commissioner was sworn in, and the new Fire Division Chief, Silvio Lanzas, was introduced. A brief update from both the Eastvale Community Foundation and the Public Safety Commission was given. Roosevelt High School ASB President, Jakob Rivera, provided an update as well.

There were not any Public Comments or Citizen Participation at this meeting and the Consent Calendar was approved in its entirety by a vote of 4-0-1 (with Rush leaving early).

The Old Business portion of the meeting was short and focused on the reorganization and compensation of the Assistant City Manager and Senior Account Clerk. Item 8.1 – calling for title changes and reorganization of these jobs – was approved 4-0. Item 4.2, which called for a 6.4% increase for all employees (excluding the City Manager), as well as a cafeteria stipend to be increased by $100, a 5% increase for bi-lingual abilities, and administrative leave for management employees in the amount of 80 hours annually, passed 3-1 with Lorimore voting No.

The New Business portion of the meeting centered on Item 9.1 – the Chandler Street Corridor Area Improvements – costing a total of $307,000. This item passed 4-0.  Item 9.2, the Mayor’s Cup Soccer Challenge, was pulled due to time constraints and will be discussed at an upcoming Council meeting. Item 9.3 was a verbal report on the Vacant Lands in Eastvale.

The Public Hearings portion of the meeting was also rescheduled to the Jan. 14 Council meeting due to time constraints.

To learn more about the Eastvale City Council meetings, or to hear recordings of previous meetings, please visit: http://www.eastvaleca.gov.

Eastvale: Eleanor Roosevelt High School Grad Receives Honors

By K.P. Sander

 

 

Award-winner-Maria-rosario-

Kababayan Today host G. Töngi poses with award winner Marie Rosario. (Photo Courtesy: Rosario Family)

Eastvale – 2014 Eleanor Roosevelt High School graduate, Marie Rosario, was recently selected as one of the Ten Outstanding Filipino-American Senior Students (TOFASS) in California.

On Dec. 29, 2016, Rosario appeared on the television show, “Kababayan Today,” on channel LA18, where she was awarded with a check and a special plaque by show host G. Töngi, commemorating her selection as a TOFASS recipient.

The TOFASS award comes from the Alpha Phi Omega (Philippines) of Greater Los Angeles Alumni Association (APOGLA).  It is the flagship project of the association, with the objective of recognizing and awarding outstanding senior students of Filipino-American descent for their academic and scholastic achievements so that they can serve as a role model for other young people to emulate.  According to their website, they also provide scholarship grants to help assist college-bound students.

Dan E. Niño, Vice-President – and incoming 2015 President – of APOGLA, appeared with Rosario on Kababayan Today, and spoke of the selection process for the TOFASS award.

“There were 30 applicants, with only four selected.  There are very rigorous and strict [guidelines] in the selection.  Those selected are very deserving,” said Niño.

Niño also commented that the biggest supporters of the system are the parents.  Rosario appeared on Kababayan Today with her parents, Martin and Clarissa Rosario.  Proud mother, Clarissa, said, “We are very thankful and blessed to have four girls.  She (Marie) is the eldest, and we are very blessed.”  Both parents agree that Marie is a wonderful example for her three sisters.

Rosario is currently a freshman student at the University of California, San Diego, and studying Environmental Systems.

“The environment and our world is something that I’m very passionate about,” said Rosario when asked about her major.

Passion as a student is nothing new to Rosario.  She is reportedly on full scholarship at UCSD, received an additional $1,000 scholarship from Century Gold 21 Realty for education expenses, was honored at ERHS’s Senior Awards as President of the California Scholarship Federation, and received an award in the National Honors Society for four semesters of straight As.

In high school, Rosario was a student of ERHS teacher, Patty Bickel, in Honors and AP Chemistry over two years.  Bickel had some good memories to share:

“Not only was Marie a very diligent student, but her biggest attributes had to be her strong work ethic and having the ability to be a self-starter.  I also remember Marie as always being available to help out her fellow students, and she was not afraid to speak her mind when she did not agree with the ‘majority,’” said Bickel – traits that have obviously been an asset to this fine student.

The future does indeed look bright for Marie Rosario.

If you would like to watch Rosario receive her award on Kababayan Today, visit https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XrZu8JWFrWg.  For more information on TOFASS, visit http://alphaphiomega.org/tofass.

 

 

Eastvale: CNUSD Boundary Updates  

Staff Reports

 

cnusd-boundaries

Map of Barton to Reagan attendance. Please visit the CNUSD website to see maps for other schools. (Image Courtesy: CNUSD)

Eastvale — With the 2015-2016 school year opening of Ronald Reagan Elementary School set to happen in July 2015, some school boundaries within Eastvale have changed. Clara Barton, Harada, and Eastvale Elementary Schools will see the majority of the change, as some of Regan’s new attendance will pull from those directions.

The new boundaries will be discussed in detail at parent meetings to be held at these Eastvale locations, as follows:

 

  • 14, 2015, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Eastvale Elementary School, 13031 Orange Street
  • 21, 2015, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m., Barton Elementary School, 7437 Corona Valley Avenue

 

ronald-reagan-elementary-eastvale

Ronald Reagan Elementary under construction last October. (Image Courtesy: Jennifer Jester)

Parents wishing to apply for transfers, as well as open enrollment, for Reagan Elementary need to complete a transfer request by filing out the proper forms. According to the CNUSD website, if you live in the CNUSD attendance area, you will need to complete a transfer request by filling out the proper form.

If you are currently attending a school on a transfer, you do not need to renew that transfer to remain at that school. As long as you maintain continuous residency in the Corona-Norco Unified School District, your transfer shall continue until your child receives a transfer to a new school or leaves the district.

Please note, if your 6th or 8th Grader is attending a transfer school, they will matriculate to the intermediate or high school based on your residence address.

If you live outside the CNUSD attendance area, you will need to renew your transfer permit annually. You must obtain a release from your home school district and submit it to the CNUSD District Office, Student Services, between Dec. 1, 2014 and Jan. 15, 2015.

Applications for School of Choice transfers (between CNUSD schools) may be obtained at the CNUSD District Office, 2820 Clark Avenue, Norco, CA, 92860, (951) 736-5111.  Applications may also be downloaded from the CNUSD website at www.cnusd.k12.ca.us/forms.

Please visit the CNUSD website for transfer forms and additional details: http://www.cnusd.k12.ca.us/Page/741.

PLEASE NOTE: Completed applications may be returned to the District Office.  Parents with children who attend Barton, Eastvale or Harada should visit the website to view the maps to determine if their child will be attending another school.

 

Eastvale: Pedestrians Beware!

By K.P. Sander

no=pedestrians

(Photo Courtesy: google images)

Eastvale – You’ve probably seen it while driving around town.  Youth on bicycles, skateboards, or even walking, that seem to think they own the road.  And not to compare them to the old bumper-sticker, “As a matter of fact, I do own the whole [darn] road,” but they don’t actually own it, or even have the right-of-way 100 percent of the time.

Either unschooled in the dangers of traffic safety, or endowed with an unrealistic sense of bravado, these particular pedestrians are causing unsafe traffic conditions by traveling in the roadways, crossing outside of crosswalks, and sometimes even slowing down as they cross in front of you – making eye contact in a double-dog-dare challenge for you to make a move.

In one particular instance, skateboarders ambling in the road directly in front of a vehicle moving slowly with their shenanigans, finally crossed left in the middle of the street just as an impatient driver from behind made an angry move to pass left around the barricade.  Luckily the children made it across, but the results could have been disastrous, if not fatal.

We should always yield to pedestrians, right?  Absolutely – whenever possible – but sometimes they create a dangerous situations and can be cited for behaving in an unlawful manner.  In fact, according to California Vehicle Code 21950, right-of-way does not relieve a pedestrian from the duty of using due care of his or her safety.  “No pedestrian may suddenly leave a curb or other place of safety and walk or run into the path of a vehicle that is so close as to constitute an immediate hazard.  No pedestrian may unnecessarily stop or delay traffic while in a marked or unmarked crosswalk.”  Get caught, and your wallet will be $197 lighter.

For 2013, the U.S. Department of Transportation stated that 4,253 pedestrians were killed, and an estimated 76,000 were injured in traffic accidents.  On average, a pedestrian was killed every two hours and injured every 7 minutes.  UC Berkeley researchers have found that 30% of all pedestrian fatalities are related to improper street crossing.  These statistics are just too many tragic reminders that safety for all must be enhanced; but how?

According to Lt. Joseph Pemberton, Assistance Chief of Police for Eastvale (Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, Jurupa Valley Station), a lot of the issues regarding traffic safety for youth happen around the schools, with children crossing the road with oncoming traffic, or outside designated crosswalks.

“We do occasionally cite children who are presenting themselves as traffic hazards and not showing due regard for the right-of-way or even their own personal safety,” said Pemberton.

The Eastvale Police Department also frequently cites skateboarders who impede the roadway or fail to yield to a right-of-way.  If your child brings home a citation for $197, that’s a lot of allowance that’s not going to be paid out (a lot of dishes done; a lot of lawns mowed, etc.).

Pemberton said that the Eastvale Police Department frequently conducts traffic safety programs around the schools in an effort to reduce congestion and create a safer environment for everyone, but the education for children needs to be enforced in the home as well.  In an incident of vehicle vs. pedestrian, the vehicle is always going to win for obvious reasons. Children need to realize that right-of-way and respect for rules and safety go hand-in-hand.

Motorists don’t get off scot-free either.  Pemberton quotes CVC 22352(b)(2) about driving 25 mph in schools zones when children are active.  Exceed the posted speed and you’ll pay nearly $500. Fail to yield to a pedestrian – at any time – or disobey official traffic control signs, and $238 will be fined.  When compared to a life that might be lost, it’s a bargain.  It pays to slow down and pay attention.

Remember:  Be Safe, Be Seen, and Be Smart.  Pedestrians, bicyclists, skateboarders and motorists all must take steps to ensure safety by following traffic signs, signals and rules.  Don’t become a statistic.  Let courtesy and safety guide your travels.

Eastvale Community News Complete Edition January 2015

Eastvale cover 01.2015The Eastvale Community News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco, Corona, and Chino. Click here Eastvale Community News Jan 2015   to access the complete issue in pdf format.

2015? Seriously?

By Pastor Robert Jewett

 

Pastor Robert Jewett Word of Truth Community ChurchCan you believe it is 2015? I remember watching The Jetson’s cartoon when I was a child. The setting of the cartoon was 2062, and one thing that amazed me as a child was when George Jetson’s boss, Mr. Spacely, appeared on a screen and they communicated face-to-face. Although this seemed far-fetched back then, such technology is commonplace today. Such advancements in technology are sobering reminders that we are getting older.

Although each new day brings newer advancements in technology, it also brings us one day closer to meeting our Maker. For those of us who have placed our hope and trust in Jesus, we rejoice that our salvation is nearer to us now than when we first believed (Romans 13:11). But for those of us who have never placed our trust in Jesus, the Day of Judgment is drawing nigh.

The Bible warns that “no creature is hidden from his sight, but all are naked and exposed to the eyes of him to whom we must give account” (Hebrews 4:13). Our God is love and desires that we receive his grace and mercy by turning to Him.

May we all live each passing day with the hope and expectancy of eternal life.

Word of Truth Community Church meets Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m., at 850 E. Parkridge Ave., #110, in Corona. For more information, visit WordOfTruthCC.com.

Missed Opportunities 

By Pastor Rob Norris

pastor-rob-norris-the-crossings“God has reserved a priceless inheritance for His children. It is kept in heaven for you, pure and undefiled, beyond the reach of change and decay,” (1 Peter 1:4).

A man at speaking engagement in Switzerland stayed at a beautiful hotel, compliments of the conference host. Each day, as he walked through the lobby, he passed the hotel’s lavish dining room and smelled the wonderful aromas of delicious entrees and desserts. But, determined to save money, he bought fruit, cheese, and crackers from a local market and lived on that all week. As he was packing to leave, his host asked him how he had enjoyed the cuisine. He stared at him in amazement.  He had not informed him upon his arrival that his meals were included! The hotel had one of the finest chefs in the entire country. He could have eaten like a king.

Let’s think about this and apply it to our own lives. If we are unaware of our wonderful spiritual inheritance, we will miss out on a bountiful banquet which God has prepared for us.

But simply understanding our spiritual inheritance isn’t enough. Many of us live spiritually poor lives because we don’t really believe God. We don’t take Him at His Word. But if God really is absolute truth, then we can and should stake our very lives on his Word.

Satan will do anything to prevent us from fully experiencing the blessings we inherit as God’s dearly loved children. He will try to convince us that the treasure is worthless. Or, he will sow seeds of insecurity and guilt so we feel undeserving. But we must not believe his lies!

Trusting in God’s absolute truthfulness releases His riches. The treasures of heaven that we inherit are claimed by faith here on earth.

LIVE IT:  Find a promise in God’s Word to fulfill a valid need in your life. Make a decision to believe it and hold on to God’s promise by faith without wavering. Because God is absolute truth, I will believe what He says and Live It.

Join us for our January Series, “GOOD INTENTIONS.”

The Crossings meets Sundays, 10 a.m., at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale. For more information call (951) 847-6836, or visit http://www.atthecrossings.com.

 

Eastvale Kiwanis Host Donation Drive

City of Eastvale
goodwillfundraiserPosted Date: 1/3/2015 12:30 PM

If you are cleaning out your closets after the holidays, this is a great opportunity to help provide scholarships to Eastvale students…

Eastvale Kiwanis Club has partnered with Goodwill Southern California to raise funds, as well as support Goodwill’s mission of enhancing the quality of life for people with disabilities or other disadvantages through education, training and job placement services. That’s good for everyone!

Help raise funds by donating gently used clothing, accessories, electronics, e-media, household items and more.

Please drop-off your donations from now until January 11th. Donations can be placed next to the wooden bench at the Bootsma Ranch, 14560 Schleisman Rd or for pick-up please call: 951-264-4739.

Eastvale Community Foundation Board of Directors

City of Eastvale

Posted Date: 1/5/2015 10:00 AM

Expire Date: 1/16/2015 4:00 PM

Job Type: Volunteer

eastvale-community-foundation-logoThe Eastvale Community Foundation is seeking applicants for the Foundation Board of Directors.  We are specifically seeking a CPA/Account type person to fill our vacant CFO position on the Board of Directors.

The Eastvale Community Foundation is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization consisting of volunteers, selected and created by the Eastvale City Council, which raises money for programs and scholarships in the City of Eastvale. The goal of the foundation is to create events and activities throughout the year to raise funds for programs, scholarships and other needs within the city.

The mission of the foundation is to strengthen the Eastvale community by providing leadership, fostering collaboration on local needs and issues, and encouraging giving through programs, scholarships and events.

The mission of the Eastvale Community Foundation is to strengthen the Eastvale community by collaborating with the city council to identify city needs and issues, encourage volunteering of time, talent, and resources.  For more information about the Eastvale Community Foundation, please visit their website: www.EastvaleFoundation.org

The Eastvale Community Foundation Board of Directors is a volunteer position. Interested parties will need to submit a volunteer application found on the Employment page as well as a cover letter describing your specific talents and experience that would compliment the services of the Foundation.

Applications will be accepted through Friday, January 16, 2015 at 4:00 p.m.

Registration for City of Eastvale CERT Training NOW OPEN!

City of Eastvale

Posted Date: 12/21/2014 12:30 PM

ARE YOU PREPARED? Recent history has shown the need for neighborhoods, schools, and businesses to rely on themselves for a minimum of 7 days to 2 weeks following a major catastrophic event.

Through funding provided by a Homeland Security Grant Program, the City of Eastvale has partnered with Jurupa Community Services District to provide Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training.

CERT is a positive and realistic approach to emergency and disaster situations where citizens will be initially on their own. Through training, citizens can manage utilities and put out small fires; treat the three “killers” by opening airways, controlling bleeding, and treating for shock; provide basic medical aid; search for and rescue victims safely; and organize themselves and spontaneous volunteers to be effective.

FREE CERT Training will be offered January 9 – 11, 2015. All three days equals one class. CERT Training is a commitment of 20 hours of training (must attend all 20 hours).  There is no cost for the training.  Only those who successfully complete the practical exercise with hands-on instruction in fire suppression, search and rescue, cribbing and medical will receive a certificate of completion and a FREE CERT kit. Class size is limited to the first 40 people who register.

This FREE class is open to citizens of Eastvale and those within the Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) boundary.

To register, visit www.rivcocert.org or call 951-955-4700.

CERT flyer

Eastvale: Culture Night at Eleanor Roosevelt High School

By Emily Aguilar

 

Eastvale – Because of its diverse alumni, Eleanor Roosevelt High School ensures that each student is given the opportunity to embrace not only the cultures of others, but that of their own as well. This environment has allowed cultures to blend with one another like peaches and cream, unifying ERHS into a strong student body.

In order to pay homage to these various cultures, ERHS’s prominent club, CSF (California Scholarship Federation), held its bi-annual Culture Night festival on Dec. 4.

Culture Night is a show meant to represent students’ traditional cultural practices through artistic performances. Before 6 p.m., the Mustang Theater was filled with supportive family and friends who wanted to see their loved ones represent their culture.

The evening began with a slideshow of students speaking about their cultures and giving the audience a preview of their performances. Following this introduction, the fun began. The performances in dance ranged from Folkloric, to the Chinese Ribbon Dance, to Polynesian and American jazz; and songs were performed from Korea and the Philippines.

Among the performances, one of the most memorable was the Bhangra Dance, which electrified the audience with its upbeat tempo and passionate movement. After captivating the audience with his group, one of the dancers, Shukan Patel stated, “I feel as if the audience was able to feel the energy and pride of the Indian culture through the fast-paced, coordinated moves to traditional music. I feel as if this performance allowed for the audience to experience the Punjabi festival of Vaisakhi’s (Harvest Festival) joy through our dance performance.”

Before the evening ended, CSF Coordinator, Frank Mata, went on stage and spoke to the audience about how working at ERHS as an AP Language and Composition teacher has introduced him to stupendous students. He expressed his admiration toward his students, because in spite of their stress with college and grades, they never fail to lose touch with who they are.

“I am proud of them – they’re not just students at that point. They become respectable young men and women who make it their privilege to pay homage to their culture in this all too foreign land,” Mata said.

After his small speech, Mata invited all of the performers on stage to sing Bill Withers’ famous song, “Lean On Me.” Captivated by the unification of their friends and children, the audience joined in and become a single voice, giving an appropriate ending to the evening.