Category Archives: Inland Empire

Small Business Workshop: Win The Power Of The Inbox

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale

On Wednesday, July 13 , from 9 am-11 am, the Inland Empire Small Business Development Center (IESBDC) will host a FREE Internet Sales and Use Tax Workshop at New Day Church, located at 7155 Hamner Avenue, in the City of Eastvale.

In this class, you will learn the six easy steps you must take to harness your email program & learn The Power of the Inbox! Learn insider tips and techniques like automated list building tools, design elements that work, those that don’t, and how to measure and get results. Learn to:

  1. Grow a healthy list
  2. Create great content that keeps them on your list
  3. Customize a beautiful, mobile-friendly template that matches your brand
  4. How to get your emails opened
  5. Tracking your results
  6. How to reach beyond your list for new subscribers

Business owners and start-up entities alike are welcome to attend.

Pre-registration is recommended, as seating is limited.  For more information or to register, please visit: www.iesmallbusiness.com.  If you have any questions, please contact us at (909) 983-0751. This no cost seminar was made possible by the City of Eastvale.

The Inland Empire Small Business Development Center is hosted by the California State University, San Bernardino University Enterprises Corporation.  The Center is partially funded by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and the California State University, Fullerton Tri-County Lead SBDC.  All of the SBDC programs and services are offered on a non-discriminatory basis.  Reasonable arrangements for persons with disabilities will be made.

SB County To Rid Rave-Style Events

By Racine Guajardo

San Bernardino– Rave-style events have been held at the San Manuel Amphitheater in Devore for the past 3 years. However, the San Bernardino County Board of Supervisors proposed on June 28 to consider a ban on the events.

According to documents available online, as of September 6, 2016 it will go into effect to no longer permit Live Nation to host any more Electronic Dance Shows at the San Manuel Amphitheater at the Glen Helen Regional Park. This was due to numerous objections of noise and nuisance complaints generated by the Electronic Dance Show events.

The Board of Supervisors have also taken into consideration the results of deaths that have happened at these events. According to Janice Rutherford, “Sadly, two deaths have been linked to rave festivals at the Venue. Arrel Cochon, 22, of Hollywood suffered a seizure after taking Ecstasy and methamphetamine at the Nocturnal Wonderland festival in September 2013. John Hoang Dinh Vo, 22, of San Diego died at Loma Linda University Medical Center after suffering a seizure and collapsing at the Beyond Wonderland festival in March 2015. The cause of death was acute toxicity from MDMA (Ecstasy).”

No actual impact financially is known at this time. However, also according to Rutherford’s report, “it is unclear to what direct extent the EDS events contributed to the overage. The elimination of EDS may also impact the County’s negotiations with Live Nation to extend the management contract for the San Manuel Amphitheater and the level of financial guarantee. Additionally, the County may see a loss of revenue from Live Nation for the leasing of additional space at Glen Helen Regional Park for camping or other needs during EDS events or may recognize an increase in revenue resulting from other usage opportunities.”

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 6.25.16

2016-Jun25-WeeklyThe Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: 2016-Jun25-Weekly-WEB

IE News: Man Hit by Metro Link Train

Staff Reports

Fontana– A man was hit by a Metro link train on June 6, at approximately 5:00 p.m.

Officers responded to the call in the area of Palmetto and the railroad tracks south of Arrow Blvd; calls reported that a person was hit by the Metro link train.

According to Fontana Police Department, “Witnesses told investigators they observed a 41-year-old male subject calmly walk over to the tracks and lay down on them as a Metro Link train approached.” The man was struck by the train and died from the injuries sustained.

This case is currently under investigation and being treated as a suicide.

Once the family members have been notified, the identity of the man will be released by the San Bernardino County Coroner’s Office.

Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE) has the following information on knowing what do if you see someone about to commit suicide and possible warning signs:

Know What to Do:

Stigma associated with mental illnesses can prevent people from getting help. Your willingness to talk about mental or emotional issues and suicide with a friend, family member, or co-worker can be the first step in getting those help and preventing suicide.

If You See the Warning Signs of Suicide:

Begin a dialogue by asking questions. Suicidal thoughts are common with some mental illnesses and your willingness to talk about it in a non-judgmental, non-confrontational way can be the help a person needs to seek professional help. Questions okay to ask:

  • “Do you ever feel so badly that you think about suicide?”
  • “Do you have a plan to commit suicide or take your life?”
  • “Have you thought about when you would do it (today, tomorrow, next week)?”
  • “Have you thought about what method you would use?”

Please visit www.save.org to learn more information, however also calling 9-1-1 immediately is a beneficial way to help prevent a tragic suicide.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 6.18.16

2016-Jun18-Weekly-COVERThe Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format:2016-Jun18-Weekly-WEB

IE News: Reckless Chase

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy of Murrieta Police Department

Photo Courtesy of Murrieta Police Department

Murrieta– The California Highway Patrol (CHP) attempted a traffic stop on June 1, observing a silver Nissan Versa traveling southbound on I-215 with speeds of up to 80 mph. The suspect was later identified as David Brown, 25-years-old, and resident of San Bernardino.

As the driver of the Nissan Versa was exiting Murrieta Hot Springs Road, he failed to yield and accelerated, driving erratically and performing several illegal maneuvers in attempt to elude the CHP Sergeant. The driver then started traveling the opposite way on Murrieta Hot Springs Road.

CHP sergeant lost sight of the vehicle after it pulled into a business parking lot on the corner of Murrieta Hot Springs Road and Alta Murrieta Drive.

Together, the CHP and Murrieta Police Department units pursued the Nissan Versa as the driver continued driving in a reckless manner. The suspect entered a dead end area, making a U-turn in attempt to continuing fleeing officers. CHP utilized legal intervention to terminate the pursuit for driving and safety concerns of the community.

The vehicle became disabled, Brown was taken into custody and booked at Southwest Detention Facility for two counts of felony evading, two no bail warrants for possession of a stolen vehicle and violation of probation.

 

Man Killed By Freight Train

Staff Reports

Walnut – A man was killed by a freight train on the border of Walnut and City of Industry last week.

On Saturday, May 7 at about 7 a.m., a Union Pacific train approached a man on a set of train tracks near Lemon Avenue and Lycoming Street.  The personnel conducting the train sounded the horn and applied the brakes, but the train could not stop in time, according to the LA County Sheriff’s Department.  The train hit the man and he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The man’s name or age has not been released.  An autopsy will be conducted by the Los Angeles County Department of Medical Examiner-Coroner.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Industry Sheriff’s Station at (626) 330-3322.

Full Closure of Southbound 71

By Shelli Lombardo

 

The California Department of Transportation will close all southbound lanes of State Route 71 (SR-71) between Euclid Avenue and the Riverside County line from 8 p.m. Friday, May 20, 2016 to 5 a.m., Saturday, May 21, 2016.

Maintenance crews are repairing and/or replacing concrete slabs in the number one and two lanes of southbound SR-71. Northbound lanes will remain open.

The southbound detour is as follows: use eastbound SR-60 to the southbound I-15 to westbound SR-91 or use SR-60 as an alternate route into and out of Los Angeles and Orange County.

Thank you for your patience as Caltrans works to improve your commute.

To stay on top of roadwork in the Inland Empire go to http://www.caltrans8.info and sign up for commuter alerts. View traffic conditions at http://quickmap.dot.ca.gov.

Deputies Arrest Man For Carjacking

Staff Reports

LOMA LINDA- On Wednesday, March 30, 2016, at about 11:30 p.m., sheriff’s deputies received a report of two attempted carjackings in the parking lot of Loma Linda University Medical Center.  During the first carjacking attempt, the suspect unsuccessfully tried to enter a vehicle occupied by a female.  After failing to enter that vehicle, he then approached a second vehicle, also occupied by a female, and tried to enter through the passenger side door. The second female driver sped away through the parking lot, causing the suspect to fall from the vehicle. Upon arrival, deputies located and detained the suspect, Anthony Martinez, 32, of San Bernardino.
During their investigation, they learned that after falling from the second vehicle, Martinez chased the car through the parking lot as the driver attempted to exit the location. Martinez was able to catch the vehicle a second time and tried climbing into the passenger door once again. The driver continued to speed through the parking lot, causing Martinez to fall from the vehicle again. Both victims indicated that Martinez was trying to carjack them while they were in the parking lot. Neither victim knew Martinez, and neither sustained any injuries as a result of the encounters.
Although he fell twice from a moving vehicle, Martinez did not sustain any injuries. He was arrested, transported and booked on three counts of felony attempted carjacking.

San Bernardino County Jail Prisoners Sue Over Jail Conditions

Staff Reports

SAN BERNARDINO- Two prisoners in the San Bernardino County jails filed a federal class action lawsuit today, claiming that conditions in the jails are unconstitutional. George Topete and Zachary Shovey claim that the jails are depriving them of basic medical and mental health care, and protection from harm.  They also allege that the jails are denying them reasonable accommodations for their disabilities. The prisoners are seeking an order from the court requiring county officials to improve jail conditions in order to comply with constitutional standards.

The suit alleges that prisoners do not have timely access to physicians and mental health clinicians, that they are victims of excessive force and violence from other inmates, and that they do not receive reasonable accommodations for their disabilities.

George Topete, 50, who has been convicted of attempted murder and robbery, alleges that he has difficulty walking and using stairs due to a physical disability.  Topete is alleging that the jail system has refused him access to a cane, which he needs to walk.   Topete is also alleging that the jail gave him a wheelchair, but he is not able to use it because he is not located in a wheelchair-friendly cell block.   As a result, he has fallen and is at risk of falling when trying to access the visiting area, his cell, and the toilet.

Zachary Shovey, a pretrial detainee at the West Valley Detention Center, has no violent criminal record. He does have an extensive psychiatric history that includes multiple suicide attempts, psychiatric medications, and a nine-month stay in a state psychiatric hospital. Shovey is alleging that the jail failed to provide him mental health treatment and psychiatric medications for one year after his arrest despite symptoms including hallucinations, delusions, anxiety, and insomnia.  He is also alleging that the jail has failed to provide him with timely medical treatment for his seizure disorder.

“These people are entirely dependent on the jail for their health care and well-being – they have no other options,” said Kelly Knapp, Staff Attorney at the Prison Law Office.

The lawsuits stem from a lengthy investigation undertaken by the Prison Law Office into conditions in the jails.

“Sheriff John McMahon has been transparent about the conditions in the jails and has cooperated fully with the investigation,” said Donald Specter, Executive Director of the Prison Law Office. “We expect this cooperation to continue during the litigation and hope that the case can be resolved as quickly as possible,” said Specter.

The county denies that conditions in the jails are unlawful and believes that health care provided to inmates is of high quality, that inmates with disabilities are accommodated and that prisoners are housed in a safe and secure environment.

Even so, Sheriff McMahon noted that, “Since realignment, counties, including San Bernardino, have faced significant challenges in housing more inmates for longer periods of time than they have historically.”

The county has devoted significant resources over the last several years to ensuring that conditions in the jails meet all relevant constitutional, statutory and regulatory standards. As part of that ongoing effort, the county has been working cooperatively with the Prison Law Office for more than a year in an effort to address the claims that have been made in the lawsuit.

“We have appreciated the willingness of the Prison Law Office to work constructively with the county on these issues, look forward to continued cooperative discussions, and are optimistic that the case can be resolved amicably” said Sheriff McMahon.

Inland Empire: 32 Honored for Saving Lives

Deputies honored for their life-saving actions pictured with Sheriff McMahon.

Photo courtesy: SBCSD
Deputies honored for their life-saving actions pictured with Sheriff McMahon.

Staff Reports

San Bernardino County –The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department on Friday, Dec. 18, recognized 32 personnel and citizens whose actions contributed to saving many lives.

Sheriff John McMahon presented the individuals with the awards and praised their heroic deeds at the event.

“I couldn’t be more proud of the professional character displayed by all 32 individuals awarded,” McMahon said. “Without hesitation, citizens and employees from various agencies stepped in and gave so many people their life back.”

Among the stories of the heroic acts, here are a few shining examples:
Deputy Will Fifita was honored for saving his father’s life while off-duty. On Thursday, Oct. 1, Fifita was off-duty at LAX Airport waiting to pick up family members. Suddenly, Will’s father, Eddie Fifita, fell to the ground and stopped breathing, possibly in cardiac arrest. Will quickly began assessing his father’s needs and was assisted by Customs Agents Phillip Gaff and Kevin Mahoney. The three officers began CPR and after several minutes, Will located a pulse and his father began breathing. Eddie Fifita was transported to a nearby hospital.
Highland resident Micheal Ruth helped save an injured driver on June 19.  At about 11 p.m., a traffic collision occurred on Boulder near Pacific. Ruth witnessed a car crash into a tree and become fully engulfed in flames. Ruth ran to the vehicle, saw the injured driver in the backseat, reached into the burning vehicle and pulled the driver to safety. After rescuing the driver, Ruth stayed with the driver until he was transported to a local hospital.
Deputy Daniel Smith was honored for saving his partner Deputy David Franquez’s life earlier this year.

In January of 2015, Deputies Daniel Smith and David Franquez were assigned as partners for the day on routine patrol in Rancho Cucamonga. They stopped for a quick bite to eat before their first assignment. Smith was researching the subjects they were going to contact when he looked at Franquez and realized he was choking. Franquez’s face turned red and he was no longer breathing. Smith got Franquez out of the patrol car and immediately began the Heimlich maneuver. The one hard compression dislodged the food from his airway and he began breathing on his own.

Wild Winds Blast through IE

Photo courtesy of Facebook A driveway covered with tumbleweeds greeted this Chino Hills’ homeowner.

Photo courtesy of Facebook
A driveway covered with tumbleweeds greeted this Chino Hills’ homeowner.

By Carol Heyen

Inland Empire – A National Weather Service wind advisory came to fruition Saturday as strong winds pummeled the Inland Empire.
Winds gusting over 40 miles per hour sent dirt and tumbleweeds flying across the 71 freeway and into Chino Hills’ yards.  Drivers swerved to avoid the damaging weeds as they flew by.
Houses were shaking from the winds and hundreds of trees were blown over as residents hunkered down to escape the gusts.
Residents took to Facebook to complain about the wild winds.  Many people lost brand-new drone and helicopter Christmas gifts as they were caught up in the gusts.  Garbage cans and Christmas decorations were found blown down streets, and wooden fences were blown over.
In Eastvale, a backyard palapa was snapped off its pole and landed upside down in the family’s Jacuzzi, and a trampoline that had been staked down flew up and over a brick wall.
Cleaning up the mess was no easy task.  Chino Hills’ resident Steven A. Velasquez Sr. likened clean-up to “bailing water out of a sinking boat.”
City clean-up crews were seen in Chino Hills on Sunday, helping to dispose of the tumbleweeds from residents’ front yards and streets.
Some blame El Niño for the windy and freezing conditions that swept across the southland over the Christmas holiday.
NASA reports that the 2015 El Niño, currently unfolding in the eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean, is the strongest since 1997-98. According to officials, the worst is yet to come with weather events likely to peak in early 2016.
The strong winds serve as a reminder to be prepared. The Federal Emergency Management Association (FEMA) say that high winds can be just as dangerous as heavy rain or snow. They remind residents to remove or secure items that are typically outside.
Bring patio furniture, garden tools, garbage cans, and toys inside. Trim or remove trees close enough to fall on the building. Anchor objects that are unsafe to bring inside, like gas grills or propane tanks.

The Nutcracker Returns to the Inland Empire

Sugar Plum Fairies (2)

Enter a caption

 

Performances in Riverside & Rancho Cucamonga

By Susan Gordon

Inland Empire – Inland Pacific Ballet, returns with its spectacular production of The Nutcracker, the classic holiday story danced to Tchaikovsky’s beloved score. Critically acclaimed Inland Pacific Ballet (IPB) brings The Nutcracker to life with dazzling sets complete with falling snow, an antique original Albany Flyer One Horse Open Sleigh, a 40-foot Chinese Dragon, beautiful costumes handmade in-house at IPB’s costume department, and a cast of 80 dancers. New to this year’s production is a completely re-choreographed Snow Scene for an expanded cast of 20 and a brand new lighting design. IPB’s Nutcracker has four performances left this holiday at Riverside’s Fox Performing Arts Center and Lewis Family Playhouse in Rancho Cucamonga.
This season’s cast features brilliant young talent from the region, most notably Emily Baggarly, and Lauren Collett alternating in the role of Clara. Both Emily and Lauren continue to receive their training at the IPB Academy. Both attended prestigious Summer Intensive programs in New York City – Emily at American Ballet Theatre and Lauren at New York City Ballet. IPB Principal Dancer, the exquisite Meilu Zhai of Montclair, will reign over the Kingdom of Sweets as the Sugar Plum Fairy. Meilu is a former dancer with the National Ballet of China and returns for her fourth season with IPB. Also returning is IPB Principal Dancer Cameron Schwanz of Corona, who will dance as the Cavalier and the Nutcracker. Cameron is a thrilling dancer who returned to southern California three years ago to join IPB as the Beast for its premiere of Beauty and the Beast. He previously danced with Texas Ballet Theater, Ballet Pacifica/Festival Ballet Theater, Los Angeles Ballet, and Ballet San Jose. IPB Principal Dancer Jonathan Sharp as Drosselmeyer, returns for a seventh season with IPB and brings an extensive resume of dancing professionally with the Boston and Pennsylvania Ballet companies, and appearances in original casts of five Broadway shows. Jonathan is currently appearing in San Diego’s Old Globe production of In Your Arms.
This annual holiday favorite tells the story of a young girl named Clara who receives a magical nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve, and sets out on a wondrous journey to the Land of the Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets. A fantastic dream with battling mice, dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and the delightful Sugar Plum Fairy stir the imagination. Meet the cast after the performance for photos and autographs. A dazzling holiday tradition for the entire family, see it again or for the first time and be swept away in a winter wonderland.
“We are thrilled to again take our wonderful production on tour to four beautiful southern California theaters. As always, The Nutcracker showcases our key Company Principals and Soloists who are in top form,” says Artistic Director Victoria Koenig. “Cameron Schwanz (Cavalier) and Meilu Zhai (Sugar Plum Fairy) are extraordinary. They really honed their partnership in Beauty and the Beast last spring and are a joy to watch.  We look forward each year to enhancing the show to surprise our audiences and this year is no exception. We’re re-choreographing the Snow Scene for 20 dancers, which is fun and inspiring for the dancers, and I think will make for an exciting new addition. We also have a brand new lighting design. Our fans who return year after year really look forward to these fun changes to the choreography and production values.”
IPB is a professional ballet company based in the Inland Empire of Southern California since 1994. The Company is committed to producing exquisitely staged productions of full-length classic story ballets as well as presenting the best in contemporary choreography. Their large studio facility in Montclair also includes in-house costume and scenic departments. In addition, through creative marketing and an extensive Educational Outreach Program, IPB strives to introduce new audiences to the magic of ballet, and to make the experience more available and accessible to all. For students pre-school through grade 12 enrolled in public, private and home schools, IPB offers “A Young Person’s Guide to the Ballet,” connecting the arts to learning through music and movement with five educational outreach performances scheduled for The Nutcracker. The Company is also committed to the nurturing of new talent and provides an essential training ground for serious young dancers.
Choreography for The Nutcracker is by Laurence Blake and Victoria Koenig; Scenic Design by Nancy Seruto and Daniel C. Nyiri; Costume Design by Jeanne Nolden; Brand new Lighting Design by Joseph Walls; and Music by Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky.
IPBs Founders/Artistic Directors/Choreographers Victoria Koenig and Kevin Myers, are southern California natives who bring a wealth of experience to their visionary leadership of this young Company. Over the past 21 years they have built IPB into the premiere ballet company and a key creative force in the region, enjoying critical acclaim while performing the largest and most varied repertoire in the area. Victoria Koenig is a native of Los Angeles now residing in Claremont. After many years as a professional dancer, and extensive international travel as a guest artist and teacher, Ms. Koenig returned to southern California and has become a shaping force in the region’s dance community. She co-founded the Los Angeles Chamber Ballet, was on the faculty of the Stanley Holden Dance Center, and served on the dance faculty of California State University, Long Beach. Ms. Koenig has brought her many years of professional experience to the Inland Valley, one of the fastest growing cultural assets in southern California and is also on the dance faculty at Pomona College. Kevin Myers is a native of Riverside, California. He danced with the Houston Ballet in solo roles in the classic repertoire including Giselle, Swan Lake, The Nutcracker and Sleeping Beauty and in work created for him by Houston Ballet’s renowned Artistic Director, Ben Stevenson. Later as soloist with the Los Angeles Ballet, he danced principal roles in a variety of Balanchine ballets, including Tarantella and Jewels. As a Co-Founder and Associate Director of Inland Pacific Ballet and of the Inland Pacific Ballet Academy, Mr. Myers is fulfilling a dream of widening the opportunities for the young people of the Inland Empire to experience the art of ballet and providing local talent with the chance to pursue a career in the field.
Performances of The Nutcracker take place at the Lewis Family Playhouse, 12505 Cultural Center Drive, Rancho Cucamonga, CA 91739, Friday, Dec. 18 at 7:30 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 19 at 2pm and 7:30pm, and Sunday, the 20th at 2pm. Tickets start at $38 with senior/child/group discounts available. For more information and tickets, please go to IPBALLET.org.

Inland Empire December Events

 

Jurupa Valley Winter Carnival

When: Saturday, Dec. 12 from 8:30 a.m. – 11 a.m.

Where: Jurupa Community Center, 4810 Pedley Road Jurupa Valley, California 92509

Details: Santa, breakfast, crafts and more.

Contact: (951) 361-2090.

 

Chino Youth Christmas Parade and Fair

When: Saturday, Dec. 12 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Parade starts at 9 a.m., the carnival and family entertainment is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Santa’s Village is held from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: The parade starts on the corner of Riverside Drive and Monte Vista Avenue and ends at Chino Avenue.  The fair will be in the Senior Center and Library Parking lots. The carnival and family entertainment is held at the Civic Center, and Santa’s Village is held at the Chino Youth Museum.

Details: Thrilling Rides, Entertainment, Food Vendors, Craft Vendors, and more.

Contact: Contact the Carolyn Owens Community Center at (909) 334-3258 or email communityservices@cityofchino.org.

 

Horse Town Parade of Lights and Winter Festival

When: Saturday Dec. 12 from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Where: George Ingalls Equestrian Event Center 3737 Crestview, Norco, CA 92860

Cost: Breakfast with Santa $5 per person. Activity wrist band $5 per person.

Contact: (951) 270-5632 or www.norco.ca.us

 

Eastvale- WRCRWA Treatment Plant Tour

When: Saturday, Dec. 12 from 10 a.m. – 11:30 a.m.

Where: WRCRWA Treatment Plant, 14634 River Road Eastvale, California 92880

Details: Western Riverside County Regional Wastewater Authority invites you to a morning tour of their treatment plant and to learn more about the expansion and enhancements taking place at the facility.

Contact: (951) 571-7221.

 

Riverside Holiday Craft Fair

When: Saturday Dec. 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Dales Senior Center 3936 Chestnut St. Riverside, CA 92501

Details: Visit unique booths, watch featured demonstrations and purchase original art work from various vendors. Products include: handmade jewelry, holiday wreaths, fabric flower accessories, ceramics, quilts, handmade doll clothes and much more.

Contact: (951) 826-2047

 

Eastvale- 1st Annual Winter Fest

When: Saturday, Dec. 12

Where: Eleanor Roosevelt High School, Eastvale

Time: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Details: Kids Kraft Korner, Vendors, DJ, Food, Train Rides, Snow Play, Pictures with Santa, $1 Booths, and special performances by the ERHS Dance Team, Cheer, Choir, Jazz band and Theatre. Bring an unwrapped toy ($5 value) for a FREE train ride ticket.

Contact: Jenny Tellez by email at jtellez@cnusd.k12.ca.us.

 

Victorian Christmas Open House

When: Sunday, Dec. 13

Time: 12:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Where: Heritage House 8193 Magnolia Ave. Riverside, CA 92504

Cost: FREE

Details: This family friendly celebration features Father Christmas; a unique range of musical entertainment which includes caroling, autoharps, dulcimers, bagpipes, and a barbershop quartet; home baked sweets; and hot-mulled cider. Fresh-cut greens, handmade wreaths, and mistletoe will adorn the home and one can enjoy making holiday ornaments.

Contact: Brenda Flowers (951) 826-5273 or www.riversideca.gov/museum/heritagehouse

 

2015 Blue Light Ceremony

When: Monday, Dec. 14

Where: County Administrative Center located at 4080 Lemon Street, Riverside

Time: 6 p.m. to 7 p.m.

Details: Join the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department in the “Blue Light Ceremony” to honor the brave men and women in law enforcement who have paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect and serve their community.

 

Discovery Day

When: Wednesday, Dec. 16

Time: 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Where: Riverside Metropolitan Museum 3580 Mission Inn Ave. Riverside, CA 92501

Details: A Natural History of Christmas Trees. We’ll explore fun facts, flavor and the natural history of the common Christmas tree.

Contact: Danielle Leland (951) 826-5273 or www.riversideca.gov/museum

Inland Empire: 91 Project Task Force Seeks Volunteers

Photo Courtesy: RCTC Executive Director Anne Mayer

Photo Courtesy: RCTC
Executive Director Anne Mayer

By Anne Mayer, 91 Project Executive Director

CORONA – Last month, storm damage forced a closure of a lane on the Westbound 91 which made a challenging commute even worse. Although the damage was quickly repaired, the impact it had on the local community was intolerable.
The Riverside County Transportation Commission (RCTC) needs to do a better job communicating directly to those impacted by the construction of the 91 and its traffic impacts. During the last few weeks we have enhanced our efforts to work closely with our partners at the City of Corona to get the facts out and address your concerns. We are committed to improving communication and we need your help.
RCTC is creating a Corona Community Task Force (CCTF) to create a productive forum for citizens to raise their concerns and provide feedback to our team on what works and what doesn’t work. A good two-way conversation starts with facts and information and the task force will be a good place to have that conversation. The primary topic will be on traffic and how to address the impact of the construction work on residents, but we could also cover other issues involving the project which might impact local residents. The task force is expected to begin meeting this fall and continue to meet on a monthly basis. Meetings will be held on a weeknight from approximately 7 p.m. to 9 p.m. If you have an interest in serving, we encourage you to apply. To apply, please email, sr91project@rctc.org, or call, 951-787-7141.  Applications must be submitted by Nov. 16 for the initial CCTF meeting. Late applications will be considered for future meetings. We would like to form this committee quickly and have it in place for the length of the project.

The 91 Project is more than 50 percent complete and great progress is being made on improvements that will benefit commuters and the City of Corona for years to come. We are committed to improving communication and minimizing the impacts where we can. Join us in making this work for your community.

Inland Empire: Hear the Beep Where You Sleep

October is Fire Prevention Awareness Month

Staff Reports

Inland Empire – Riverside County Firefighters want all residents to install and inspect smoke alarms in every room.
“I urge you to have working smoke detectors on all levels of your home, and in all areas where people sleep” Riverside County Fire Department Chief John Hawkins said.
National Fire Prevention Month is a good time to make sure all homes have working smoke alarms, on every level, in every sleeping area, and in the hallways leading to the sleeping areas.
This year’s fire prevention theme is “hear the beep where you sleep, every bedroom needs a working smoke detector.”
“When fire strikes, every second counts,” Hawkins said. “Knowing how to react quickly and correctly can mean the difference between life and death.”
According to the latest National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) research, working smoke alarms cut the chance of dying in a fire in half. Meanwhile, three out of five fire deaths resulted from fires in homes with no smoke alarms or no working smoke alarms.
These alarms should be hard-wired with a battery backup in case of a power outage. In California, new smoke alarms have a 10 year long battery life.
Residents are encouraged to inspect all smoke alarms every month, clean them annually, and replace the entire smoke alarm every 10 years.
Roughly half of all home fire deaths happen between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., when most people are asleep, according to fire officials.
If a smoke alarm sounds, crawl low and go outside to a predetermined meeting place. Fire officials recommend practicing the plan in a fire drill at least twice a year. Families should also have an escape plan with an assigned meeting place outside the home in case of a fire.
This Fire Prevention Month CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department is asking all residents in Riverside County to improve their own safety by having working smoke alarms in every bedroom and on every level of your home.

“Sell Your Casa” With Gil Rivera

Gil Rivera offers a 4% Total Commission for Sellers. For more information, call (877) 888.SOLD (7653), email GRiveraEmail@gmail.com, or visit SellYourCasa.com. Call today for a free market evaluation.

Gil Rivera offers a 4% Total Commission for Sellers. For more information, call (877) 888.SOLD (7653), email GRiveraEmail@gmail.com, or visit SellYourCasa.com. Call today for a free market evaluation.

By Sarah Sanchez

Southern California – In this day and age, it’s important to know all aspects of your business. For Gil Rivera from Sell Your Casa Realty, he definitely knows every aspect of buying and selling a home. Rivera is a reliable, experienced, and affordable Realtor, Broker, and Certified Appraiser.

Rivera sells houses, condos, and two- to four-unit investment properties in Los Angeles, Orange, San Bernardino and Riverside Counties. He also does real estate appraisals for banks, estates, taxes, trusts, divorces, attorneys, refinances, and home purchases.  Rivera also has assistants that work with him who are fluent in Spanish and Chinese, which helps him to reach people of different dialects all over Southern California.

With a 24-year proven track record of success, Rivera has sold homes in 26 different cities throughout Southern California.

“I can do this because I appraise homes in so many different cities and have the knowledge and expertise associated with your marketplace. Give me an opportunity and you will surely be happy you did!” Rivera said.

Rivera’s philosophy is to “treat my clients the way I want to be treated.” In fact, Rivera said that he became a Realtor because he did not like the way his Realtor treated him when he was buying his home. Rivera shows respect for his clients at all times. He listens to what they say, so that he can better serve them.

Rivera also does not push his Buyers into a sale. “I always tell Buyers: ‘You will know right away when we walk into the house that’s meant for you.’  Rivera said, “Whether it takes a week or months, my Buyers will always be satisfied with their purchase and are never pressured into it.”

Rivera’s Sellers love the fact that he offers a discounted commission, but with full service. Rivera offers a 4 percent Total Commission for Sellers, which includes 2.5 percent to the Buyer’s Agent and 1.5 percent to Rivera’s office. Most Realtors negotiate a 6 percent commission because they have to split the fees with their brokerage. But, Rivera passes on the savings to the Seller. This will save the Seller thousands of dollars in commission fees.

Rivera’s team offers full service for that discounted rate, including high quality flyers, professional photos, open houses (as allowable by the Seller), and extended advertising coverage on the Internet and social media.

Rivera absolutely loves what he does. He loves selling homes to Buyers because he helps fulfill their dreams of home ownership. His favorite part of selling homes to is transferring the keys to the excited new owners.  Rivera also loves selling homes for Sellers. He enjoys the individuality that each property offers and promoting the positive attributes of the home.

Rivera says, “Many agents spend their time showing houses….I sell them!”

For more information, call 877-888-SOLD (7653), email GRiveraEmail@gmail.com, or visit SellYourCasa.com. Call today for a free market evaluation.

Many Rally For The Reagan Dedication

Photo By: Sarah Sanchez Michael Reagan

Photo By: Sarah Sanchez
Michael Reagan

By Sarah Sanchez

Eastvale – On Friday, Aug. 28, a Dedication Ceremony was held in honor of Ronald Reagan Elementary, the 50th school to be opened in the Corona-Norco Unified School District. Michael Reagan, the son of U.S. President Ronald Reagan, was the special guest of honor at the dedication.

A variety of people were also in attendance, including U.S. Congressman, Ken Calvert; Senator Richard D. Roth; Anthony Pennay of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation; Eastvale’s Mayor, Ike Bootsma, and other City officials and dignitaries; CNUSD Superintendent, Michael Lin, and Board Members; Reagan Principal, Susan Helms;  Director of Education Board Members; PTA Board Members; Eastvale Chamber Members, and the students, teachers, and parents of Ronald Reagan Elementary.

The Dedication Ceremony was a great event, starting off with a Reagan student leading the Pledge of Allegiance. The crowd addressed the very same flag that was flown over the Capital on Ronald Reagan’s birthday.

Reagan Elementary Principal, Susan Helms, gave an introduction and thank you to all in attendance, and then Congressman Ken Calvert took the stage. He announced that four U.S. flags were flown over the United States Capital in honor of President Ronald Reagan, his son Michael Reagan, Principal Susan Helms, and Superintendent Michael Lin.

Many spoke at the dedication, including Mayor Bootsma; Superintendent Lin; CNUSD Board of Education President, Jose W. Lalas; Board Vice President, Cathy L. Sciortino; and Reagan PTA President, Brenda Meagher.

Then, the special guest of honor took the stage.

“It is an honor and privilege to be here at Ronald Reagan Elementary.  It is also an honor and a privilege to be the son of Ronald Reagan,” said Michael Reagan, as he chuckled.

Reagan thanked everyone who was responsible for making Ronald Reagan Elementary possible. He also presented Principal Helms with a Challenge Coin from the USS Ronald Reagan.  He then advised the students to always work together toward a common goal, referring to when President Reagan brought down a certain wall in Berlin. Reagan said his father focused on making friends out of enemies, and not enemies out of friends.

Reagan also said that the President always knew his audience when he gave a speech.

“Think about this school. Think about the name it has on this building. Think about who you represent. People will be looking to you for leadership in the future; the leadership that is going to be taught to you and brought to you in this school. Think about when you go out and leave this school campus; what will people be looking at? What message are you going to be giving to them? Always know your audience and know that they are watching. When you do good, the community will do good, and hopefully the state and the world will be doing good right behind you.”

The event concluded with all the Reagan students singing the Reagan Rally, and then officials gathered for the ribbon cutting. However, Principal Helms said, “It is a rope cutting instead of a ribbon cutting, because, after all, we are the Reagan Wranglers.”

Inland Empire: National Night Out

The City of Eastvale comes together with pride

 

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – On Tues., Aug. 11, the Target parking lot in the Gateway Shopping Center was transformed into a “Night Out Against Crime.”  It was the perfect opportunity for residents to become acquainted with the phenomenal individuals that keep our City safe, get a glimpse of what happens behind the scenes, and make new friends while enjoying a sense of community.

Law enforcement, Firefighters, City personnel and a variety of booths dedicated to the betterment of the City were on hand to give an up close and personal glimpse into the resources available to Eastvale.  Big and little kids alike were able to speak with members of the Bomb Squad, SWAT Team, Hazardous Materials Unit, Paramedic Squad, Mounted Posse, K-9 unit, as well as Firefighters and Police Officers. Wide eyes watched as the hook and ladder truck reached for the sky and future Sheriff’s Deputies donned SWAT gear and sat in an assortment of vehicles.

The evening was rounded out with carnival games, face painting, a rock wall and bounce houses full of fun, and it was great to see a wide range of neighbors, City Council and Staff, business owners and people from surrounding communities come together on a unique and memorable night. There is a formidable force working behind the scenes for the City of Eastvale, and we should be proud to know we are in excellent hands.

If you’d like to know more about National Night Out, visit NNO.org.

 

Inland Empire: Sheriff’s Air Rescue

Photo Courtesy: SBSD

Photo Courtesy: SBSD

Staff Reports

Forest Falls – On Tues., Aug. 25, hiker Alexis Lopez was climbing at Big Falls, in Forest Falls, when he fell approximately 15 feet, hitting his face on the rocks.
According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, Sheriff’s Air Rescue 306, manned by Pilot Corporal Mike Gilley, Crew Chief Deputy Paul Kowalski, SBCFD Captain Jack DeJong, and SBCFD Firefighter/ Paramedic Eric Sherwin, were dispatched to assist with Lopez’ rescue.

Kowalski lowered Sherwin via hoist to access Lopez. Due to the extent of Lopez’ injuries, and the remote location of his fall, the crew determined a hoist rescue was necessary.

Lopez was hoisted 120′ out of the falls and then transported in stable condition to Arrowhead Regional Medical Center to be treated for non-life threatening injuries.