Category Archives: Eastvale

What’s Up With Walmart?

Aerial view, looking north on Archibald (Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale)

Aerial view, looking north on Archibald (Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale)

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale/Ontario/Chino – If you’re up on your social media sites in and around the City of Eastvale, you may know that as far as the proposed Walmart coming to Eastvale goes, some citizens can’t wait, and some citizens think it is a concern for the reputation of the City.

Whatever your position on this subject is, the reality is that a Walmart is coming to town.  And not just your average Walmart; a 177,000 square-foot, 24-hour Super Walmart “Green Store”!  According to Walmart, they are proposing that part of their environmental plan be directed to boost energy efficiency, cut down on waste, and reduce greenhouse gasses tied to global warming.  The mega discount retailer has plans for this particular Walmart as a nationwide pilot store.  It could also potentially provide about 100 jobs for the community.

The 2014 Grand Opening of Eastvale’s Walmart – which was projected in early 2013 – has come and gone due to delays on and around the 40-acre property located on the southeast corner of Limonite and Archibald avenues – the soon-to-be mega intersection that borders Ontario and Chino. If you have traveled in that vicinity lately, you know that the gauntlet on Archibald Avenue north of Limonite Avenue is a bit of a challenge – from the new Park Place housing tract under construction, up toward the 60 Freeway.

Initially, the 120-foot electrical transmission towers that grace the property were going to be moved elsewhere because they affected the street widening needed to accommodate the higher volume of already congested traffic that Walmart would bring to that area.  The cost to move the towers was reportedly about $1 million, not to mention the liability issues absorbed by the new location – possibly in Ontario or Chino.  And then, of course, there was the “who” in the payment department…Walmart or Southern California Edison, who would have to mastermind the relocation?  As a solution, there was initial talk of placing concrete barriers around the towers.  SCE recently stated that they have agreed with Walmart that conceptually, the transmission towers will not need to be relocated.

According to SCE, they sent a letter to Walmart on Jan. 22, 2014, requesting detailed engineering plans in order to proceed with the planned review.  Walmart representatives informed SCE that the project – at that time – was too early in the planning phase to draft the plans, but they would be forwarded as soon as they were complete.  At this time, SCE has not received anything from Walmart, so there is currently no action for them to take.

Eastvale Chamber’s Official Newsletter

Chamber Logo

 

Note From The President 

            “Welcome to the new year, Eastvale Chamber of Commerce!  We have great things in store for 2015.  For those of you able to attend the Chairman’s Gala, you got to see firsthand some of the new and exciting things coming our way, and I am very excited to see these things come to pass.  For those of you that were unable to attend, we missed you!  The new Chamber logo (as pictured below) represents an all new growth and vision for the Chamber.  I am hoping that with the direction of the current Board of Directors, we will be able to continuously impact our City in the most positive way.  I welcome any and all suggestions and look forward to serving you this year.”

– Michael Offutt, President

Eastvale Chamber Upcoming Events

Thurs., Feb. 12

After-Hours Mixer, First Bank

Fri., Feb. 20

“Africa Night” with Safari Kay

New Mission Statement

            “Our Mission is to provide the businesses of Eastvale and surrounding vicinity an innovative leadership organization that is committed to stimulating a vibrant local economy through business advocacy, economic development, and cultural enrichment.”

Core Competencies

  • Business Advocacy
  • Economic Development
  • Innovative Leadership
  • Cultural Enrichment

 

Thank you to all of our sponsors for this year’s Gala.  We appreciate all of your contributions to make the event such a success!  And, of course, a special thank you to Goodman-Birtcher for being the Chairman’s Sponsor for 2015.

Chamber Allegra

Mustang Mayhem

By Tara Lanning

Photo By Daliyah Ross

Photo By Daliyah Ross

Eastvale – Here at Eleanor Roosevelt High School we have a team on campus called Renaissance, who recognizes students for their achievements. One of the things we love to recognize is school spirit.

Along with Renaissance, ERHS does different activities to get kids pumped up about our school. We call these activities, “Mustang Mayhem”.

Photo By Daliyah Ross

Photo By Daliyah Ross

Recently, we had a “Planks for Pizza” competition at lunch. The competition was simple… whoever held a plank position for the longest amount of time won a box of pizza.

The students raved about this Mustang Mayhem competition, and everyone had a great time.

1st Annual Chairman’s Gala

By Claire Lewis

Eastvale – This year, the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce decided to do things a little differently to show their appreciation for their local business members.  Rather than having the regular Installation Dinner, the Chamber hosted its First Annual Chairman’s Gala.

Held on Thurs., Jan. 22, at the Eastvale Community Center, the Chamber transformed the room into a sparkling, elegant evening to remember.

New President for the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce, Michael Offutt, said, “The 1st Annual Chairman’s Gala was a huge success!  I was so excited to share my vision with our members, and I feel that it was embraced and much appreciated.  I look forward to many more events such as this, which not only get important information out to our members, but also give them a chance to get together and interact.  With a brand new vision and a new set of core competencies directing our path, 2015 is sure to be an exciting and successful year for the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce.”

On top of dinner and the evening’s festivities, the Chamber recognized some important businesses with special awards, as follows:

  • Large Business of the Year: Waste Management
  • Small Business of the Year: Eastvale Community News
  • Philanthropic Award: Eastvale Community Foundation
  • Ambassador of the Year: Kay Trotman
  • Most Valuable Partner for 2014: Goodman-Birtcher
  • Business Professional of the Year: Michele Nissen, Assistant City Manager of Eastvale

With such a successful event, no doubt there will be a 2nd Annual Chairman’s Gala early next year.  For more information on the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce, visit www.eastvalechamberofcommerce.com, and see Page 17 of this publication.

Eastvale Boys In Supercross Challenge

By Kimberly Lessing

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

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

Eastvale – Two local Eastvale boys competed in the KTM Junior Supercross Challenge at Anaheim Stadium in January.

Mikey Wayne, a 2nd Grade student at Clara Barton Elementary, represented Eastvale and raced the KTM Junior Challenge on Jan. 17; and Jett Lessing, a 3rd Grade student at Rosa Parks Elementary, raced 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 were required to 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, the riders got 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 was truly a once in a lifetime opportunity for the boys and we were excited to cheer for Mikey and Jett as they represented 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 were ready to take on Supercross at Anaheim Stadium!  And, if you are curious, Mikey came in 9th Place, and Jett came in 3rd Place.

You can follow Mikey and Jett on their exciting adventure on Instagram (@MikeyWayne999 and @JettLessing) or on Facebook at www.facebook.com/Mwayne999 and 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.

Roxy, The Miracle Dog

Roxy, the day she was found after her incredible journey (L); and now, a month later (R). (Photo Courtesy: Erika Allis and Jaclyn Sivewright)

Roxy, the day she was found after her incredible journey (L); and now, a month later (R). (Photo Courtesy: Erika Allis and Jaclyn Sivewright)

By Jennifer Jester-Madrigal

Eastvale – Back in July 2014, Roxy was accidentally let out of her home by carpet cleaners. Her family, who adopted her from a shelter after she was abandoned in a garbage can, was devastated and searched everywhere for her. Meanwhile, Roxy – a German Shepherd mix – wandered around Eastvale and was frequently seen hiding in the bushes along Hamner Avenue; however, every attempt to catch her failed.

Finally, on Dec. 30, 2014, a group of kind Eastvale residents:  Keleigh Angelo, Hope Seibert and Ericka Allis, were able to rescue Roxy near Rosa Parks Elementary and put her picture up on the “Eastvale Lost and Found Pets” Facebook page – a page run by Allis, Julie Rogan and Kate Haynes.

When the group rescued the dog, they nicknamed her “Hope” and asked the public for help in identifying her. What they didn’t realize was that “Hope” was really the Sivewright family’s beloved Roxy. Thanks to her microchip and some investigating by these dog lovers, Roxy was reunited with her family.

According to Allis, “As soon as Roxy saw her owner she started crying and wagging her tail uncontrollably.”

Sadly, Roxy was far from healthy and was immediately taken to the vet. During her time as a runaway, Roxy became severely malnourished and was most likely hit by a car. The vet was able to fix her dislocated hip, and after a five day stay, she was able to go home to her family.

Now, a month later, Roxy has gained 23 pounds, her hip is healed and she is walking great. She readjusted immediately, and her family is grateful. Owner, Jaclyn Sivewright, and her family are “so absolutely thrilled to have her home.”

From a shelter dog that survived being left in a trashcan behind a store, to surviving being away from home as an accidental runaway for four months, Roxy’s incredible journey is over.  She is truly a miracle.

The County of Riverside requires that all pet owners microchip their dogs and cats, and as you can see in this incident, it makes all the difference.

WOLFF Holds Ceremony For Fallen Heroes

By Jennifer Jester-Madrigal

Image Courtesy: www.facebook.com/WivesOfLawEnforcementAndFireFighters

Image Courtesy: facebook.com/WivesOfLaw EnforcementAndFireFighters

Eastvale – On Fri., Jan 9, WOLFF (Wives of Law Enforcement and Firefighters) held an event to honor the memory of the 118 Peace Officers killed in the line of duty in 2014.

The public gathered at Eastvale’s Fire Station #27, where 118 American flags were placed in front of the station.  In addition, Eastvale Firefighters displayed a blue light at the firehouse to remember the men and women who have sacrificed their lives.

Citizens line up in front of Eastvale’s Fire Station #27 to honor our fallen heroes on Jan. 9. (Photo Courtesy: WOLFF)

Citizens line up in front of Eastvale’s Fire Station #27 to honor our fallen heroes on Jan. 9. (Photo Courtesy: WOLFF)

This event coincided with a national movement to support law enforcement officers as they serve and protect citizens in the United States in the hope of bringing communities together and awareness to a worthy cause.

During the ceremony, Bagpiper, Terri McCarthy – a retired Los Alamitos Police Officer – played taps and other significant music, while members of the community, Police Officers, and Firefighters took turns placing a flag along the sidewalk in front of the station.

It was truly a community event, and WOLFF would like to give a special “Thank You” to the City of Eastvale and the surrounding communities that have been supportive of our fallen Heroes.

WOLFF will be putting on many future events to support our Law Enforcement and Firefighter families, as well as the Eastvale community.

ERHS Students Donate Blood

By Emily Aguilar

The American Red Cross vehicle/blood lab on the ERHS Campus (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

The American Red Cross vehicle/blood lab on the ERHS Campus (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

Eastvale – Many students are beginning to realize the importance of giving back to their community: they volunteer, they host fundraisers, and they try to promote philanthropy.

When the American Red Cross offered to let ERHS students donate blood on Jan. 23, over a hundred students – mostly upperclassmen – rolled up their sleeves to donate their blood in the school cafeteria.

Donating blood is necessary for patients who have been in traumatic accidents or have health related issues, but the drawing of blood isn’t as simple as it seems. Eligible donors have to be over 100 pounds, cannot have health-related issues such as diabetes, must be at least 16, and must face the risk of feeling immense fatigue afterwards. Even after signing away their consent, nurses must ask the donors a series of questions to ensure that they are physically prepared to undergo the rigorous process.

In spite of these barriers, students still stand by the belief that their half hour of discomfort is worth saving someone’s life.

ERHS student and blood drive volunteer, Jackie Camuy (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

ERHS student and blood drive volunteer, Jackie Camuy (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

Included in the ERHS donors, was Jackie Camuy, an avid volunteer who has donated blood numerous times. Despite the anxiousness that she felt while having a nurse draw her blood, she has never been hesitant to take advantage of the opportunity to make a difference in someone else’s life.

“I feel like it is my responsibility to contribute to society in any way possible. I specifically chose to donate blood because I want to give somebody a better chance to live.” Camuy stated.

For those interested in donating blood or volunteering in the medical field, please visit http://www.redcross.org.

How Distracted Is Your Driving?

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – I was recently listening to a favorite radio program, and the DJ made mention of a man who was pulled over by police and cited for eating a hamburger while driving.

At first I thought, really?  What’s next? But as I was driving down the freeway attempting to put hot sauce on my taco*, I began to think, perhaps eating while driving is as much of a distraction – if not more – as texting.

Years ago, a friend of mine was on the road for work and had grabbed some drive-thru lunch on her way to an appointment.  As she attempted to merge her little pickup from the onramp to the travel lane – simultaneously picking up freeway speed and taking that first bite of a juicy burger – her tires caught in the grooves of the shoulder.  Not willing to sacrifice the burger, she one-handedly over corrected her steering and flipped her truck.  The burger didn’t make it.  Without the grace of God, she wouldn’t have made it either.  After a couple of weeks in the hospital, she thought twice before ever eating while driving again.

Distracted driving includes a variety of activities, the very popular texting, phones (laptops!), eating, talking to passengers, grooming (if I had a nickel for every time I saw someone applying mascara at a traffic signal…), reading, using navigation, watching videos – you name it; if it takes your visual, manual or cognitive attention away from your driving, it’s a distraction.  And by the way, texting requires all three skills…at once.

The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration (NHTS) revealed from a survey that only one out of five young drivers thinks that texting makes no difference in their driving performance.  The average text takes your eyes off the road for about five seconds.  Combine that with traveling 55 miles per hour; that’s enough time to cover the length of a football field – blindfolded.  A frightening visual (pun intended) that I would venture to say might make a difference.

A National Occupant Protection Use Survey showed that at any given daylight hour across the nation, more than 660,000 drivers are manipulating electronic devices – the lion’s share by texting.  NHTS says that in 2012, 3,328 people were killed and 421,000 were injured in distraction-affected crashes – depending on how you look at it, more than 60% of those distracted while driving, crashed.

71% of teens surveyed admit to composing and sending a text while driving.  Coincidentally, nearly 70% of California drivers surveyed in 2013 said they had been hit or nearly hit by a driver who was talking or texting on a phone.

These are all statistics that just scream, STOP!  Do you really want to drive in an environment where you are surrounded by – maybe you are one of them – individuals creating a crash risk 23 times greater than driving while not distracted?  I’m visualizing a group of friends in a car:   they just hit the drive-thru on their way to a party, and they are having a great time texting back and forth with other friends heading to the same party…they are all engaged on everything, except the road.  How often do you think this happens?  Exactly.

Whatever takes your eyes from the road – even for a second – has the ability to alter your life forever.  The outcome is rarely a good one.  Don’t learn from experience, take statistics to heart.  That call, text, burger or ? can wait until you are stationary and safe.

We lived quite comfortably for thousands of years without the immediate gratification of iPhone/Android technology.  There is nothing worth the risk of a precious life – yours, or someone else you may affect, by being impaired in some way.

A vehicle can be a symbol of success or poverty, a well-loved member of the family (good, old Bessie), or simply the thing that gets you from A to B.  I can also be a lethal weapon when operated outside of the law.

Lt. Scott Forbes from the Eastvale Police Department gives us this sage advice, “In the short time it takes to read or respond to a text, your vehicle can conceivably travel hundreds of feet.  Please don’t gamble with your safety or the safety of other motorists.  The risk is just too great.”

Be safe. Don’t drive distracted.  Ever.

Visit www.distracted.gov to learn more.  Educate yourself, your teens, your friends, all those you care about.

 

*An embellishment for entertainment purposes.  No tacos were harmed in the writing of this article.  Oh, c’mon!  How many times have your knees done the steering for you?

“True Comfort”

By Pastor Dennis Morales

Pastor Dennis Morales Calvary Chapel CrossBridge

Pastor Dennis Morales

“But the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things,” (John 14:26).

“Comforter” describes the Holy Spirit of God, which means in the original New Testament language “to come to the side of another.” There is something cool about the word “comfort.”  We get the word comfort from two Latin words meaning “con” (in company with) and “fortis” (to strengthen).

We just signed my son, Noah, up for his first organized baseball team.  Along with that comes my responsibility to provide as much encouragement as possible for Noah in his development as a player.  We were practicing batting the other day and he got a little discouraged and just sat down.  I was moved and came along side of him and gave him a few words of encouragement.  He then sprang to his feet, and to both of our joy, he a hit the ball squarely all the way to the outfield grass.  It would have done him no good for me to take the bat out of his hand and hit the ball for him.

We usually think of “comfort” as soothing someone, consoling someone; and to some extent this is true.  But true comfort strengthens us to face life bravely and keep on going. It does not rob us of responsibility or make it easy for us to give up.

God comes along side of us not to remove the difficulty or hardship, but to strengthen us along the way (Isaiah 41:10, Philippians 4:13).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., at Clara Barton Elementary (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale). Visit their website athttp://www.CalvaryEastvale.org.

Reset the Course

By Pastor Dennis Morales

 

Pastor Dennis Morales Calvary Chapel CrossBridge

Pastor Dennis Morales

“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing!” (Isaiah 43:18-19a NIV).

New phone luster, new clothes, new car smell, new resolutions.  These all seem to fade pretty quickly.

Given the New Year, it is still a great time to reset the course to change. God sets the first course in change, which is to “forget the former things.”  God doesn’t concentrate on your problems or failures.  He says, I am going to do something “new.”

Isaiah was speaking to God’s people who were in captivity.  They had failed miserably, and it seemed they had no way out.  As long as they dwelled on the past, God could not do something new.

The devil would always have you look back, too.  Because when we dwell upon our failures, often fear, shame, and isolation are not too far away.  And that’s the devil’s intention, to get you isolated from God.  Because when we come to God, we find forgiveness and peace.

The Bible says, “Gods mercies are new every morning,” (Lamentations 3:23).  The Apostle Paul practiced, “… forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead,” (Philippians 3:13).  Paul’s life had a strong focus on God that helped him prioritize everything else.

God always fixes our eyes on the things that are ahead because He wants to do something new.  He wants you to have not just a better physique or a better relationship; God wants to give you something deeper.  He wants to free you from sin and set you on the course of peace (Philippians 4:7).

Happy New Year!

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., at Clara Barton Elementary (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale). Visit their website athttp://www.CalvaryEastvale.org.

Navigating The ‘Main Street Squeeze’

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: RCTC.org

Photo Courtesy: RCTC.org

Corona – If you are one of the local commuters who travel into the perfect storm of the 15 and 91 Freeways merging with the influx of vehicles entering from Main Street on your way to work, there might be some relief in your near future.

The Corona Police Department is offering five tips to help you navigate the traffic, and perhaps make for a more enjoyable drive.

  1. Allow extra travel time. Do yourself a favor and leave for work or school a little earlier. That will help you relax and be more patient as your drive through this area.
    2. Make good driving decisions. When the road narrows, move over and get behind the car in front of you. Please don’t try to go around that car and then get stuck at the K-rail (cement barrier) up ahead. There are “No U-Turn” signs at Third St. and on Grand Blvd, so don’t try and make a U-turn. Please follow all rules of the road and be patient during this time.
    3. Pay attention. Travel conditions will be changing during the next two years. K-rails will be shifting. There may be some additional lane closures at night. Follow the signs, put down your cell phones, and please be respectful with other motorists and contractors.
    4. Know alternate routes. The eastbound on-ramp of Main Street will be closed, so use Lincoln Ave., Magnolia Ave., McKinley St. or Hidden Valley Pkwy. instead.
    5. Watch for workers and equipment. Although crews will be primarily working behind K-rails, there are exceptions. Please keep an eye out for crew members and their vehicles. Safety is paramount and we want everyone to make it home safely.

The Corona Police Department would like to reiterate that this is a temporary inconvenience that will ultimately benefit all commuters in the long run traveling through this area. Please remember that we’re all in this together.

What It Means To Be A Police Officer

By LEAFF (Law Enforcement and Fire Fighters)

Photo Courtesy: LEAFF of Eastvale

Photo Courtesy: LEAFF of Eastvale

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.

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.

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!!!