Category Archives: Inland Empire

Inland Empire: Widespread Sex Trafficking Hits Home

STAFF REPORTS

 

Inland Empire – According to the office of Supervisor Don Knabe, chair of the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors, Human sex trafficking is a growing issue in this country, with children as young as 12-years of age being sexually exploited for profit. This heinous crime seems rampant, and Knabe headlined a panel, which included a trafficking survivor, at the national level to take action against it including the expansion of penalties for buyers and sellers, developing programs for survivors, and creating anti-child sex trafficking awareness campaigns to educate the public.

 

While the war against this crime is waging, the effects have hit close to home. On Fri., May 9 an Inland Empire couple pled guilty in United States District Court to federal charges of trafficking for a child used in prostitution. They admitted to forcing a 14-year old girl to work as a prostitute.

 

The office of Assistant United States Attorney, Thomas D. Stout, released a statement that Kawaum Marquez Scott, 24 of Quail Valley, and Nekeyia Necole Weatherspoon, 22, of Perris, advertised the victim on the Internet, drove her to destinations in Hemet to engage in prostitution, made her lie about her age and use an alias, and kept all the money paid for the acts.

 

Scott pled guilty to two counts of sex trafficking, and Weatherspoon pled guilty to one count of conspiracy. Prosecution is seeking 210 months of federal imprisonment for Scott, and 168 months for Weatherspoon. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for July 21.

 

If that weren’t enough, Fri., May 9 also saw an Orange County man sentenced to 14-years for forcing a Southern California woman across state lines to work as a prostitute. William Earl “Andre” Flavors was convicted – for essentially the third time – for engaging in illegal activity for the same crimes he was released from prison for, according to the office of Assistant United States Attorney, Brett A. Sagel.

 

Flavors was convicted of acting as a pimp, physically abusing women – the youngest just 15-years old – and forcing them into prostitution with a multitude of threats. Women were abused and trafficked from Washington to Southern California and Las Vegas. He has received another sentence of ten years in federal prison on top of a four year sentence he received last year for related conduct and violating the regulations of his first release.

 

 

Finding A New Job

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

I continue to hear people say that they are having a hard time finding a job. I know that government reports say that the economy is improving, but I know a number of people that can’t find a job that will support themselves and their family.

One of the groups that is especially hard hit are recent college graduates. Young men and women with college degrees are having a hard time finding a full time job. Many find themselves living at home with their parents because they cannot find a job opening in their field.

Older adults are facing similar difficulties. Some have been unemployed for an extended period of time and are trying to re-enter the job market. I know that employers are not allowed to take some one’s age into consideration for employment, but it seems that the job prospects for people over 50 years of age are not very good.

I understand that many new jobs require more skills with computers, communication and new technology. I realize that some companies have closed their facilities in Southern California and relocated to other states.

What can you do to find a new job? Where do you turn to find work to support you and your family? One of the things I tell job seekers is to be persistent. Don’t give up. Don’t lose heart. Follow up on each application. Be persistent.

Years ago, when our teenage son submitted an application to a local grocery store, I suggested he go back and check with the store manager to see if they had hired anyone. I encouraged him to go back once a week so that the manager knew that my son was serious about getting hired. He got the job!

Another thing I tell people is to think outside the box. Don’t just look into areas where you have worked, but look at possibilities that are outside your previous experience. In addition, I encourage people to apply at places that always need more workers. Schools, universities, hospitals and utility companies will always need more employees. And, they have all kinds of jobs from food service to security, from maintenance to new construction.

There is a verse in the Bible that says, “Keep on asking and it will be given to you. Keep on seeking and you will find. Keep on knocking and the door will be opened,” (Matthew 7:7). Persistence and prayer can help you find a new job. It may not be easy and it may not come quickly. But, with God’s help you can do it. Don’t give up!

Inland Empire: Rialto Unified School District Apologizes For Holocaust Assignment

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

Rialto – An 8th Grade assignment has become the source of endless criticism for the Rialto Unified School District (RUSD).

The district said that the assignment was meant to satisfy the newly implemented Common Core Standards for Critical Thinking. The project was developed by a group of the district’s teachers and their educational services division, asking students in an 18-page assignment to research and write an argumentative essay about whether the Holocaust occurred, or if it was “merely a political scheme created to influence public emotion and gain wealth.” Students were then asked to interpret three sources, one of which vividly described the Holocaust and “The Diary of Anne Frank” as a hoax.

This assignment prompted a serious and widespread outcry from the community, as well as groups such as the Anti-Defamation League and the Simon Wiesenthal Center. Oyuky Barragan, a middle school student, said that she completed the assignment in defense of the history of the Holocaust, but was seriously offended by it. She went on to say that the assignment was a bad idea, and that the district needed to apologize for the ideas they planted in the minds of the children.

The sudden criticism quickly caught the attention of the Rialto Unified School District, and an emergency school board meeting was called. There was a heavy police presence at the meeting, due to the fact that board members and school staff reportedly received death threats. Officials apologized for what they said what a misguided attempt to push nearly 2,000 students to think critically. Superintendant, Mohammad Z. Islam, said that he accepted full responsibility for the incident, and that he was deeply sorry. Syeda Jafri, an RUSD spokeswoman, said that Islam was unaware of the assignment’s topic until school officials received an email about it. Joanne Gilbert, the Board President, said that the project turned into something horribly inappropriate due to a lack of internal checks and balances. The district quickly pulled the assignment and has promised revisions.

While speaking to school officials at the meeting, Rabi Abraham Cooper, the Associate Dean of the Simon Wiesenthal Center in Los Angeles, said that he hoped no one in the district still believes the assignment served to develop critical thinking. He suggested that the instructors be re-educated about the Holocaust, and that there would be mandatory annual visits to the museum. He offered to work with the district to develop detailed learning plans for the future.

Kim Possible

BY MICHAEL ARMIJO

She swings from a rope she shot out of her sleeve. She dodges laser death rays and leaps to freedom. She saves the world and her side kick is a guy. She’s Kim Possible, a teenage secret agent. She’s the coolest. She is a hero each week on the Disney Channel and, most importantly, she’s a woman.

Kim Possible, although just a cartoon character, is such a great role model for women and young girls. Having grown up with six sisters, and having a daughter of my own, I’ve seen firsthand the importance of the equality of women. And I’m proud to see programs that depict women as leaders, and as equals. This is good for young girls to see; the truth that men and women are created equal.

When I think back about my life, I remember many shows that focused on beauty and sexism. Shows like Leave it to Beaver, Father Knows Best, the Brady Bunch, the Dean Martin Comedy Hour, and Laugh In. Their predominant message depicted women as housewives, as sex symbols, or the butt end of a joke.

My sisters have empowered themselves throughout their lives, and I’ve held onto the belief that women should hold equal positions within business and marriage. And when they can’t, I’ve learned that it isn’t because of their gender, it is because of their upbringing. My father taught my sisters to work. And work they did. Many women I know were encouraged to find a man and settle down to take care of the kids. And many women I’ve met still believe that men rule the planet. I hope that those women find out the truth about us men: we don’t run the planet; we just sometimes act like we do.

I know that someday all people will see the light that equally shines from our vivid sun. And I know that all people have the right to equally feel the energy within the stars that burn a million miles away. And as those rays of sunlight shine on us, and as we all watch the same stars with equitable vision, I know I’ll see our world grow stronger and more passionate than ever before.

And each week, on the Disney Channel, you can enjoy – and hopefully relate – to a young high school student named Kim, who reminds us that nothing is impossible.

Straight Talk With Danice

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

My boyfriend is too conservative. I want us to get tattoos together, and he won’t do it. He said his mom would kill him. He is 19 years old and still lives with his parents while he’s in college. I keep telling him that he’s an adult now, and he should make his own decisions. I love him but he needs to grow up.

Jolie

Dear Jolie:

It seems to me that your boyfriend IS making his own decisions. He said no, and then he told you it was because he didn’t want to upset his mom. But he did make a decision. In my opinion, his behavior seems more grown up than yours. He’s made a decision to avoid being pressured into something he doesn’t want to do. Manage your own body, and allow him to do the same. Pressuring a friend into something they don’t want is immature and unkind. His motives for not wanting a tattoo are really none of your business.

Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She has a great passion for alternative healing and has over 20 years of experience in this field. She provides a form of energy psychology called The Emotion Code, where she helps people literally get rid of their emotional baggage. She also offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

Did You Know?

johnwayne

John Wayne, American Actor and Icon

BY K.P. SANDER“Sure, I wave the American flag. Do you know a better flag to wave? Sure, I love my country with all her faults. I’m not ashamed of that, never have been, never will be.”

While John Wayne (who was born Marion Robert Morrison in 1907) never served in the military, he was famously patriotic. Wayne’s father, Clyde Leonard Morrison was the son of American Civil War veteran, Marion Mitchell Morrison (1845 – 1915). Wayne applied to the U.S. Naval Academy, but was not accepted. That did not diminish his love for his country, and he supported the troops throughout his career.

Riverside: Community Makes Going to Prom a Reality for Teen

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER

 

A teenager in Riverside was able to attend his high school prom thanks to the generous people in his community.

 

Recently, 16 year-old Albert Luna, Jr. and his girlfriend, Vanessa Flores, had no hope of attending prom. Luna’s parents had both recently lost their jobs, and his father said that there was just no feasible way for them to pay for prom because of it. This was hard on both parents, who wanted so badly for their son to be able to attend his prom. According to Albert Luna, Sr., it “crushed” him.

 

Kimberley Mickey, a family friend, knew about the family’s dilemma, and wanted to do something to help out. She told the family not to worry, that she had it covered. Mickey then made a post on the Facebook page, “What’s Going On in Riverside County,” and she almost immediately saw a response from the community. Riverside Mission Florists, a local flower shop, was one of the first places to help Luna out. They donated the corsage and boutonniere for the teens, and another company graciously donated the tuxedo. A restaurant offered to cover dinner for Luna and his friends, and a car company provided a limousine.

 

Albert Luna was able to experience first-hand that there are people out there who genuinely care about others. And that is one of the greatest gifts a person can give to someone else.

 

 

Rainbows

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

 

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

Recently my wife and I had the opportunity to go back to Hawaii.  We love Hawaii and find it relaxing and enjoyable.  However, this time we had some of the worst weather we have ever experienced there. We used to go to Maui during summer vacation.  But, now that my wife has retired, we are able to go at other times of the year.  The fall is nice, because the crowds are smaller and air fares are lower. But this time, at the last minute, we went at the end of the winter season.

We were surprised at the weather. Strong winds blew all day long during the first three days we were there.  These weren’t the usual afternoon trade winds.  These were strong, steady winds that blew day and night. Even the locals were expressing their dismay with the unusually strong winds. Along the side of the road, we saw a large, established tree that was blown over by the wind.  Apparently there was a low pressure system over most of the islands that was drawing in these 50, 60, and 70 mph winds.

Along with the wind there was rain.  Sometimes the rain was in the form of tropical downpours. Other times it was more gentle and steady.

One morning we decided to brave the winds and take a walk on the beach.  The wind continued to blow but the rain came in gentle waves. As we looked out over the ocean we saw a beautiful rainbow; it was amazing. It stretched over the water – a complete rainbow! During the remainder of that day we saw at least five more beautiful rainbows as we drove from the southern to the northern end of the island.

The first rainbow mentioned in the Bible was during the time of Noah and the Ark.  The Bible says that God gave the rainbow to serve as a reminder of His promise to never flood the earth again. We don’t see rainbows on sunny days.  We see them on rainy days.    In the midst of adversity, we can still find reasons for hope.

You may be going through a rainy season in your life right now.  But, with God’s help, you can find hope and encouragement.  He can provide a few rainbows to remind you of His love and concern for you.  He can give you the strength to stand against the strong winds and endure the tough times in life.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Eat Well, Feel Happy

BY NICOLE GILLES, RD, CDE, CSR

 

Nutritionist Nicole Gilles

Nicole Gilles, RD, CDE, CSR

Have you noticed a change in your mood lately? Not feeling as happy and energetic as you used to? Food may be to blame.During the winter months, most Americans tend to eat more starch and fat in their diets, which can leave you feeling sleepy and emotionally unstable. High fat food, like fried food, whole fat dairy products, and fatty meats take lots of time and energy to digest. All this strain on the body may leave you in need of a nap. Large portions of starchy food, like grain products, pasta, potatoes, and sweets will cause a dramatic rise and fall in blood sugar levels. This effect may cause your mood to rise and fall as well, leaving you feeling mad or anxious. Let’s face it. We could all use a little more energy, patience, and emotional stability to help us juggle our busy lives.So what are we to do? Small changes in the diet may help support an improved and stable mood while providing increased energy levels. Can you believe food can affect your mental health that much? If you need more convincing, try it out for a month and see how you feel. Start by making small changes like avoiding fried food and switching to low fat foods for a week. The next week, continue your previous changes and start cutting back on starchy food. If this leaves you feeling hungry, increase your portions of vegetables and/or snack on one cup of fresh fruit between meals. The decreased fat and starch intake will decrease your body’s energy demands to digest food, leaving more energy for what you want to do. The decreased starch portions and occasional fruit snack will also support level blood sugars, which will support emotional stability. Together, these small changes can make a big difference in your mental health.

Celebrate Mental Health Month this May by making small food changes to feel better by June!

 

If you would like to slim down this spring, look no further than local Eastvale resident, Nicole Gilles.  Nicole is the owner of Happy and Healthy Nutrition and she is dedicated to helping you achieve your health and weight goals.  As a Registered Dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator, and Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition, Nicole is qualified to help you learn how to cope with emotional eating and learn to eat for your body’s individual needs.  Happy and Healthy Nutrition members discover when to eat, how to eat, and how to lose weight and keep it off permanently.  What are you waiting for? Start today, for a happy and healthy tomorrow!

Contact Happy and Healthy Nutrition at http://www.HandHnutrition.com, or call (909) 816-0977; and like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/happyandhealthynutrition.nicolegilles. Virtual Counseling is also available. Check out their ad on this page for a special discount available to Eastvale News readers.

 

Pomona: Midnight/Plaid Shirt Bandit Arrested

STAFF REPORTS

midnight-plaid-shirt-bandit

Midnight/Plaid Shirt Bandit (Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

Pomona – The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department has recently issued a news release stating that the suspect responsible for nearly 60 robberies in Southern California cities, including Monterey Park and Pasadena, has been arrested.

 

In a multitude of incidents involving the armed robbery of Gas Stations, Fast Food establishments, and Convenience Stores, the “Midnight/Plaid Shirt Bandit” has reportedly been associated with crimes from April 2012 through June 2013. Suspect Jermaine D. Shepherd, a 37-year old male, supposedly had a penchant for wearing plaid shirts during the commission of the robberies.

 

The news release stated that in June of 2013, a press conference was held asking the public’s help in identifying the suspect. The public was shown pictures of the suspect from some of the robberies. Since that press conference, the robberies stopped. Detectives from the Major Crimes Bureau were able to gain valuable information and evidence regarding the suspect’s identify from a combination of the public’s help, associated law enforcement agencies, and department technology. One of the clues was the unusual gait the suspect had when he walked. The investigation led detectives to Bakersfield where additional information was obtained. On Feb. 11, 2014, detectives presented their case to the District Attorney’s Office where they filed five counts of Armed Robbery, two counts of Assault with a Deadly Weapon, and obtained an arrest warrant for the suspect. On Feb.19, 2014, Major Crimes Bureau personnel responded to Bakersfield and with the assistance of Kern County Sheriff’s Department arrested Shepherd. Search warrants were executed at three locations and evidence was recovered including shirts believed to be worn in the robberies. After the suspect’s arrest, further investigation was completed and the District Attorney filed an additional 26 counts. Shepherd was arraigned and his bail was set at $2.4 million.

 

The Preliminary hearing is set for June 20, 2014, in Pomona Court, and detectives will seek an additional eight counts of Robbery that occurred in Orange County. Detectives are again seeking the public’s assistance with this case. If you have any additional information, call LASD Major Crimes Bureau at (562-946-7893), or email mcbtips@lasd.org . Anonymous calls are welcomed. “If You See Something, Say Something.” Partner with LA Crime Stoppers to prevent or report crime by contacting your local Sheriff’s station. If you wish to remain anonymous, call (800) 222-TIPS (8477), text the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or use the website at http://lacrimestoppers.org.

 

 

Pomona: A Mother’s Hope

 BY K.P. SANDER

 

cindy-belevick

Cindy Belevick with her young children, Gigi and Peter (Photo Courtesy: Google Images)

Pomona –  Every mother hopes for the very best for her children, including a wonderful life filled with love and promise. She also hopes to be there to facilitate as much happiness as she can. 

But for one local mother, these hopes have recently been associated with trepidation, and perhaps a deadline. Cindy Belevick, 48, has recently been diagnosed with Aggressive Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Even more prevalent than her own concerns for health and longevity are the concerns for her precious children: Peter, 10, has Autism, and his little sister, Gigi, is just 6-years old. These children need their mother.

 

As Belevick struggles with her Leukemia, she is in urgent need of blood, platelets and bone marrow. While donor drives have been organized, with a blood drive recently completed in Diamond Bar, and a marrow drive to be held in Covina May 3, there is still much to be done for her to win this battle. While her family is not a donor match, supporters out there may be.

 

You can become one of Cindy Belevick’s supporters, and part of her hope. While Latino/Hispanic donors are critical, anyone from 18 to 44 years of age can help save a life. In Belevick’s case, time is of the essence. You, or someone you know, may be the key. Help get the word out…

 

For more information on this mother’s hope, visit http://posthope.org/operation-help-save-cindy; and http://bethematchfoundation.org/goto/swabforcindy.

 

 

 

Rancho Cucamonga: Etiwanda Fire Caused Smoke Concerns for Diamond Bar/Walnut

STAFF REPORTS

 

etiwanda-fire

The Etiwanda Fire forced evacuations of nearly 1,700 homes (Photo Courtesy: KTLA.com)

Rancho Cucamonga – The South Coast Air Quality Management District (AQMD) issued a smoke advisory due to the conditions caused by the Etiwanda Fire. This wind-driven brush fire started Wednesday, and has currently burned over 1,000 acres. The air quality impact from the blaze has signaled concern for Diamond Bar, Walnut, La Verne, Claremont and Pomona. With the fire being only 10 percent contained due to the extreme wind conditions prevalent throughout the week, as well as high heat and low humidity, citizens are advised to avoid unnecessary activities outside.

 

At this time only one home has been damaged, but air conditions have caused many schools to close due to air and safety concerns. Mandatory evacuations for nearly 1,700 homes were issued on Wednesday, but lifted on Thursday. Schools, including Alta Loma High School, Banyon Elementary, Caryn Elementary, Etiwanda High School, Golden Elementary, Day Creek Intermediate, Los Osos High School, Rancho Cucamonga High School, and Chaffey College, remained closed on Thursday as well.

 

Santa Ana wind conditions always bring fire concerns, and this season is no exception. The initial cause of the Etiwanda Fire is still under investigation.

 

Eastvale: I Will Say It Again: Rejoice!

BY PASTOR MARK LEE

Pastor Mark Lee Vantage Point Church

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point Church in Eastvale

When most people think of the month of May, two special occasions come to mind: Mother’s Day and Memorial Day. But, did you know that more than 70 obscure holidays are observed this month? From Mother Goose Day on May 1 to National Macaroon Day on May 31, there is a reason to celebrate every single day this month. And yet, some of us will find it hard to be happy on even one day. Have you ever had a bad morning? Has that bad morning ever evolved into a bad day or bad week? So often, we fixate on the negative. We see the grumpy boss and not the paycheck. We hear the temper tantrums, but tune out the laughter. We complain about dirty dishes, but forget to be thankful for dinner. And, when you focus on the negative, it multiplies. Soon, all you see are the negative aspects about your job, your marriage, etc.

Life can be overwhelming. Whether you are struggling with broken relationships, financial difficulties, or simply trying to get the kids to school on time, it is easy to get discouraged. It is a lot harder to be positive, especially in the midst of tribulation. But, in Philippians 4:4, Paul tells us to, “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice!”

It takes discipline to be happy. Every day, we need to make a conscious effort to focus on the positive and rejoice in the little stuff. This is what the month of May – and its 70 plus holidays – reminds us. Whether it is National Star Wars Day on May 4 or Dance like a Chicken Day on May 14, we need to find a reason to celebrate!

 

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

 

 

 

Diamond Bar Resident Allegedly Steals Mother’s Memories

STAFF REPORTS

diamond-bar-resident-uses-Norris-stolen-credit-card

Photo released shows a couple using Norris’ stolen credit cards. (Photo Courtesy: Murrieta Police Department)

Murrieta – On March 31 Ashley Norris’ purse was taken from a locker at a Murrieta LA Fitness. The purse contained some of the toys belonging to Norris’ infant son, who died last year.

 

According to Murrieta Police, two people were suspected of stealing Norris’ purse and they were able to pull surveillance images of a couple who were allegedly using the victim’s stolen credit cards. Norris, who was devastated by the loss of these precious toys, reached out to various media outlets and handed out flyers at the gym in an effort to find any information. On April 18, Murrieta Police announced that through several anonymous tips and leads, the suspects were identified as Amanda Sander, a Diamond Bar resident, and Romulo Castaneda. Sander was taken into custody early last week and booked into the Los Angeles County Jail on an unrelated charge.

 

According to local reports, Sander was interviewed but refused to cooperate. Sander was linked to the case after she gave the stolen purse to a friend who did cooperate with the investigation. When the purse was recovered by detectives, the toys were not in the bag and as of now have not been located.

 

Castaneda had been unknown, but last week he was tracked down to a Chino Hills motel and arrested without incident. He was transported back to Murrieta for questioning. Castaneda gave a statement, but was unable to give a location of the toys, according to Murrieta Police. Castaneda was arrested and booked into Murrieta Jail on charges of fraud, burglary and identity theft.  He posted $5,000 bail and was released Friday, according to jail records. Sander remains in jail in Los Angeles County. At this time Ashley Norris remains without the toys that are a precious memory of her late son. According to a Patch interview, she is hoping that Sander will eventually cooperate and at least tell her if they were thrown away so she can have some peace.

Eastvale: Election Season Kicks-Off at Bootsma Ranch

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – With November’s City Council election season getting closer, some candidates have already thrown their hats in the ring. Current Planning Commissioner, Joe Tessari, and current City Council member, William Link, took part in a Chili Dinner Fundraiser at the Bootsma Ranch Sat., April 12.

The event was a re-election fundraiser for Corona Norco School Board Member Bill Newberry, but Newberry also invited a few city council candidates to participate. The evening proved to be a great way for candidates to introduce themselves to the community and also to begin the fundraising process.

During the fundraiser event, City Council hopeful, Joe Tessari, spoke about his wish to continue his service to the community by becoming part of the council. Tessari has served on the Eastvale Planning Commission for the last three years. Current Council member, Bill Link, also addressed the community and promised to run an open campaign, as he is a very open person and always tries to find the answers needed.

According to the City of Eastvale website, “City Council members are elected at-large for a four year term. Council Members serve “staggered” terms, meaning that either two or three seats are open for election every two years. Council Members receive a $400 per month stipend as compensation for their service”.  The current City Council consists of Mayor Ike Bootsma, Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush, Jeff DeGrandpre, Bill Link and Ric Welch.  Adam Rush, Link (who replaced Kelli Howell’s vacated seat in 2013) and Welch’s spots are the three seats that will be up for election in November.

As the election season draws closer, more candidates are expected to come forward and announce their candidacy. Some have even begun to go door to door and introduce themselves to the community. Some previous candidates from the City Council Elections in 2012 and 2013 have already began “pounding the pavement” in hopes of getting their names out there and letting the community know their intentions. And there are others, who are quietly contemplating running and planning their next move.  In an affluent city like Eastvale – with its high public safety, education and income rankings, as well as an extremely active and in-touch community – a City Council seat holds a lot of prestige.

The process to become a candidate starts early and prior to soliciting or receiving any contributions related to candidacy, aspirants must file a Statement of Intention with the City Clerk’s Office. There are also additional filing requirements that are dependent on the amount of contributions anticipated. The official filing period begins on July 14 and ends August 8 of this year. To become a candidate, according to the City of Eastvale’s City Clerk’s office, you must first be issued a Nomination Paper which specifies the office you are seeking. You must also obtain the signatures of at least 20 and not more than 30 registered voters within the City of Eastvale.

To qualify as a candidate for the City Council, you must reside and be registered to vote within the jurisdiction at the time nomination papers are issued. More specifically, you must be:

  • At least 18 years old.
  • A U.S. Citizen.
  • A resident of the City of Eastvale.
  • Registered to vote in the city.
  • You must not be on parole or serving time for any felony conviction.

To find out more information about this process, visit the City of Eastvale’s website at http://www.eastvaleca.gov/.

 

Eastvale: Distracted Driving Enforcement

Courtesy City of Eastvale

Eastvale, CA. – As part of April’s Distracted Driving Awareness Month campaign, the Eastvale Police Department has Distracted Driving Month joined with over 200 other local law enforcement agencies and the California Highway Patrol in a month long “zero tolerance” enforcement and education campaign to curb those texting or operating hand-held cell phones while driving. The Eastvale Police Department conducted a special high visibility enforcement operation to cite cell phone violators in the area of Roosevelt High School, River Heights Intermediate School and Harada Elementary School.
As a direct result of the operation, 34 drivers were cited for various unsafe driving conducts. The violations cited included cell phone violations, crosswalk right of way violations and seatbelt violations. One vehicle was stored during the operation.
The increased enforcement and education aims to persuade drivers to recognize the dangers of distracted driving and reduce the number of people impacted by this perilous behavior. The “It’s Not Worth It!” theme emphasizes that a phone call or text isn’t worth a hefty fine or a collision. The current minimum ticket cost is $161, with subsequent tickets costing at least $281.
“We take the issue of distracted driving very seriously,” said Eastvale Police Lt. Mike Yates, “because we see the aftermath of these totally preventable crashes. Is that text message or cell phone call really worth $161, or worse, someone’s life?”
Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves. In addition, studies show that texting while driving can delay a driver’s reaction time just as severely as having a blood alcohol content of a legally drunk driver. According to research, sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds. Even a three second glance at freeway speeds means a driver has traveled the distance of a football field.
Research shows that there is no difference in the risks between hands-free and hand-held cell phone conversations, both of which can result in “inattention blindness” which occurs when the brain isn’t seeing what is clearly visible because the drivers’ focus is on the phone conversation and not on the road. When over one third of your brain’s functioning that should be on your driving moves over to cell phone talking, you can become a cell phone “zombie.”
Join the City of Eastvale in our support for the “It’s Not Worth it Campaign!” Cell phones, texting. It’s not worth it. It’s just that simple.
Resources from the California Office of Traffic Safety: http://ots.ca.gov/Media_and_Research/Campaigns/Distracted_Driving.asp

EASTVALE: Celebrating Easter in Eastvale

 

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – This year Easter falls on April 20. If you are a member of one of Eastvale’s churches, you probably know what special events and services are taking place. However, you may be new to the area, or shopping for a home church in the City. Here is a listing of Easter services in the area. Be sure to check out the Pastors’ Corner articles on page 15 for a more in-depth look into our churches.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale: Worshipping Sundays at 10:30 a.m. at Clara Barton Elementary, 7437 Corona Valley Avenue, Eastvale; www.CalvaryEastvale.org. Good Friday Service, April 18, 7:30 p.m. at the Eastvale Community Center. “He is Risen” Easter services at 8:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m. at Clara Barton Elementary.

Edgewater Lutheran Church: Worshipping Sundays at 10 a.m. at Harada Elementary; 12884 Oakdale Street; Eastvale 92880; http://www.EdgewaterLutheran.org. Edgewater will mark the entire Easter weekend with two special services at Harada. On Friday, April 18 at 7 p.m., they will prepare for Easter with a moving Tenebrae Service. The Sunday morning Easter Service will be held at 10 a.m., with a light continental breakfast served before and after service. Childcare and Children’s Ministry are available during the service, with a traditional Egg Hunt immediately following. Easter Sunday will also kick off a new sermon series entitled, “Easter Fact”, which will look at reasons for belief. On May 18, the series will include a very special guest speaker, Dr. Ken Ebel, Professor of Biology at Concordia University in Irvine.

 New Day Christian Church: Worshipping Sundays at 9 and 10:30 a.m., currently meeting in the Beacon Hill Office Complex at 2191 Fifth Street, Suite 108, Norco 92860; http://www.newdaycc.net. New Day is planning to open the doors to their brand new church (the first in Eastvale) at the corner of Hamner Avenue and A Street during the month of April, pending all construction approvals. Easter Sunday services will be at 9 and 10:30 a.m. Check their website for updates.

The Crossings: Worshipping Sundays at 10 a.m. at River Heights Intermediate, 7227 Scholar Way, Eastvale; www.atthecrossings.com. Easter Sunday Service will be held at 10 a.m., with an Egg Hunt right after service.

VantagePoint Church: Worshipping Sundays at 8:30, 10, and 11:30 a.m. in the Roosevelt High School Auditorium, 7557 Scholar Way, Eastvale 92880; www.VantagePointChurch.org. Along with their traditional services at regular times on Easter Sunday, VantagePoint will be providing the community of Eastvale with Free Springtime Fun. On Saturday, April 12, they will host the seventh annual Easter Egg Hunt at Eastvale’s Mid Hill Golf Center (13000 Citrus Avenue), with more than 25,000 hidden eggs, crafts, games, obstacle course, petting zoo, pictures with the Easter Bunny and fun for all ages. The celebration will begin at 10 a.m. and conclude at 2 p.m.

Word of Truth Community Church: Worshipping Sundays at 10:30 a.m. and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. at 850 East Parkridge Avenue, Corona 92879; www.wordoftruthcc.com. Easter Sunday service will be held at 10:30 a.m.

 

Irwindale: Hot Sauce Maker in Hot Water

 

 

Sriracha Factory Worker Image Courtesy of Google Images

Sriracha Factory Worker
Image Courtesy of Google Images

By Glenn Freeman

Irwindale – The Irwindale City Council unanimously declared Huy Fong Foods, makers of the popular Sriracha hot sauce, a nuisance at its April 9 council meeting. The City gave the sauce-maker 90 days to address the problem of strong chili odors emanating from its Irwindale factory.

The ruling came after a months-long investigation that began following the lodging of complaints to the City Council in September 2013. Nearby residents of the factory say the spicy odors have caused burning eyes, nose bleeds, heartburn, and issues with asthma.

In late November 2013, after Irwindale officials sued the company, a Los Angeles County judge issued a temporary halt in the offending production process to implement mitigation measures, conditions the City of Irwindale now say Huy Fong Foods has breached.

In the Nov. 26, 2013 ruling, Judge Robert H. O’Brien indicated that although there was a “lack of credible evidence” of health problems linked to the strong odors, he said it appears to be “extremely annoying, irritating and offensive to the senses warranting consideration as a public nuisance” and that it was “reasonably inferred to be emanating from the facility.”

At a public hearing held in February 2014 that was attended by supporters on both sides of the issue, Huy Fong Foods owner, David Tran, and plant workers, pleaded with the City not to force a shutdown. Nearby residents of the factory responded by saying they don’t want to shut it down, but want the conditions addressed.

Officials with Huy Fong said they had installed filters on the roof, and that the company was working with AQMD to find long-term solutions. Huy Fong’s attorney, John Tate, says the company hopes to fix the odor problem by June 1, in time for the peak chili grinding season that begins in late August, which residents say creates the strongest odors.

SGV-IE: Costco Secrets To Shopping

According to “Epic Dash”, Costco has a secret to their pricing. Apparently some things are full price, some are sales, some are clearance, and some are Managers Specials. Read more:
Avoid products with prices ending in .99 – these are full price.1-costco

Items with prices ending in .97 are deals decided by the store manager. These won’t be around for long and can offer amazing discounts.2-costco

Prices ending in .49 or .79 are a manufacturers special offer. These prices usually apply to products which are heaving a trial run and are usually priced cheaper than their retail price.3-costco

Watch out for products that end in .00, the manager wants these items off the shelf for good. That means that they’re priced down and nearly out of stock.4-costco

Labels with an asterisk are reserved for items that are discontinued. Usually, these are priced cheaply to get them off shelves.5-costco

Is it weird I feel like I’m part of a secret club or something?

Eastvale: Watch Your Sipping To Slim Down For Summer

BY NICOLE GILLES, RD, CDE, CSR

Nutritionist Nicole Gilles

Nicole Gilles, RD, CDE, CSR

If you have taken a stroll through our local Eastvale stores recently, you may have experienced the same dreadful feeling as I have when you see aisles and aisles tiny bathing suits and cute summer clothes. That’s when you realize it’s about time to put those comfy winter clothes away and get your “beach body” ready for summer. If you are looking to sport your best beach body ever, now is the time to start. Begin the process by swapping those warm winter carbs, like pasta and potatoes, for fresh spring carbs, like seasonal fruits and vegetables. But our food intake is only half the battle; we also need to think about what we are drinking. Of course, any beverage with calories cuts into our food calories for the day. This not only includes juice and sodas, but also alcohol. The majority of Americans consume about 1,000 calories a day from their beverage choices, which does not leave much room for food. Choosing zero calorie beverages will not only whittle that waist line, but will also leave more room for food so you can shape up without feeling wiped out. One beverage in particular to watch is alcohol. But isn’t a glass of wine a day recommended for “Heart Health?” If one glass is good, two is better, right?  Wrong. The secret is moderation.  Just three ounces of wine or beer, or one ounce of liquor slows our calorie burning by 30 percent, and is full of empty calories. It takes a mile of walking to burn off each six ounce glass of wine or 12 ounces of beer.  If we want to protect our heart without slowing down our calorie burning, cut out the alcohol and change your focus to food and fitness. Eating five to six servings of fruits and vegetables each day and getting in 30 minutes of moderate exercise will protect our hearts and help us look amazing in those summer clothes. This April, spread the word of National Alcohol Awareness Month and ‘cut the booze to help you lose’ the winter weight and look slimmer for summer. If you would like to slim down this spring, look no further than your local Eastvale Registered Dietitian, Nicole Gilles, RD, CDE, CSR.  Nicole is the owner of Happy and Healthy Nutrition and she is ready to help you achieve your health and weight goals.  Through her program, you will learn how to eat for your body’s individual needs and learn how to deal with emotional eating.  Happy and Healthy Nutrition members learn when to eat, why you eat, and how to eat to lose weight and keep it off for the rest of your life.  What are you waiting for?  Start today, for a happy and healthy tomorrow. Contact Happy and Healthy Nutrition at http://www.HandHnutrition.com, or call (909) 816-0977; and like them on Facebook at www.facebook.com/happyandhealthynutrition.nicolegilles.  Virtual Counseling is also available.  Check out their ad on this page for a special available to Eastvale News readers.