Commissions: Citizens Shaping the Future of Eastvale

Eastvale City Manager Michele Nissen

Eastvale City Manager Michele Nissen

By Michele Nissen, City Manager

In order to create the type of City that residents want to live in, the Eastvale City Council has appointed two citizen commissions to provide input and recommendations to the City Council.  These citizens lend their time, talent and expertise to the City Council.

The Planning Commission is a five-member commission composed of residents appointed by the City Council. The commission advises the City Council on land use and development issues, taking input and making recommendations on the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance, Design Standards and related matters.   As you see new construction around town, rest assured that the Planning Commission has reviewed the plans submitted after October 1, 2010 to ensure that the proposed projects are in the best interest of the City.

The City of Eastvale has a substantial group of public safety professionals living in the City.  The Public Safety Commission, also composed of a five-member commission, was created to utilize the rich talent pool of experienced citizens to provide recommendations on Public Safety issues such as:

  • Traffic issues
  • Neighborhood Watch
  • Emergency Preparedness
  • Crime Prevention

These issues affect the quality of life in Eastvale. Having a group of professionals assist the City Council and staff in providing recommendations for improvements in public safety benefits everyone. The Public Safety Commission functions as an advisory board.

We highly recommend residents to get involved if you are concerned about the future growth of the community and public safety. Both Commissions and the City Council take resident concerns very seriously. Concerns can be heard during Public Comment or can be submitted to the City Clerk at MDonohue@eastvaleca.gov. The Planning Commission meetings are the third Wednesdays of the month and the Public Safety Commission meets on the fourth Tuesday of the month. Both meetings are held at Rosa Parks Elementary School at 6:00 p.m.  (13830 Whispering Hills Drive, Eastvale, CA 92880)

Recently, the City announced the online availability of the audio recordings for the Planning and Public Safety Commission meetings on the City of Eastvale website (www.EastvaleCA.gov). Meeting recordings are uploaded to the City website within 24 hours after the completion of the meeting. The recordings are then live for thirty (30) days after which they are archived and available through a Public Records Request.

The City’s e-notification system is a great way to stay informed and get involved!  Sign up on the City’s website today: www.EastvaleCA.gov.

Should you have any questions or comments, City Hall may be reached at Hall (951) 361-0900. City Hall office hours are Monday-Thursday from 7:30 am – 5:30 pm, closed every Friday.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 7.16.16

2016-Jul16-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-Jul16-Weekly-WEB

Local Artists Displayed At Community Center

Staff Reports

Chino Hills– Local artists from Chino Hills can now have their work displayed in the lobby of the Chino Hills Community Center located at 14250 Peyton Drive.

The works of multiple Chino Hills resident artists are now on display at the Community Center thanks to the Art Committee of the Chino Hills Community Foundation, known as chARTS, and the City of Chino Hills.

The displayed art crosses all genres and will be on display until October 3. The artists are members of the chARTS Committee, which include: Kelly Bracamontes, Lenny Larson, Peter Rogers, Fawn E. Witten, Carolyn Cunningham, and Lori Rose.

chARTS is led by local artists and art lovers who represent a wide range of expertise in fine arts, graphic design, music, creative writing, theater, and more. They encourage the creation, enjoyment, and enrichment of the arts in Chino Hills, according to a news release. The Chino Hills Community Center serves as a home base for chARTS. They curate the rotating display of local artwork at the venue.

Residents who may wish to share their special talents or artistic gifts are encouraged to visit http://www.chinohillsfoundation.com/contact-us to connect with the chARTS committee.

Eastvale’s Picnic In The Park

Photo By: Valerie Gutierrez Many enjoying their Saturday night with live music at Eastvale's Picnic in the Park.

Photo By: Valerie Gutierrez Many enjoying their Saturday night with live music at Eastvale’s Picnic in the Park.

By Valerie Gutierrez

Eastvale– As June started to wind down for many, local residents were headed to Eastvale’s 12th Annual Picnic in the Park celebration, which is an annual event that draws hundreds of thousands of people.

The 12th Annual Picnic in the Park kicked off its free pre-4th of July celebration with a three-day festival hosted by the Jurupa Community Services District Parks and Recreation Department.

Those who have lived in the City of Eastvale for awhile know that Picnic in the Park is the one event everyone looks forward to every year. Picnic in the Park has become a tradition to kicking off the summer for many residents.

This year, many residents and nearby locals enjoyed live music, inflatable jumpers, picnic games, carnival rides, and shopped at more than 90 booths selling food and merchandise.

On opening day, Friday, June 24, Joshua Tree (U2 Tribute Band) opened the night away with an amazing concert.

On Saturday, June 25, the event was opened to the public at 2 p.m. and was perhaps the most anticipated day of them all. Many residents rushed their way in to save the “perfect spot” in where they anxiously waited for the firework show. The National Anthem was performed by Akilah Ali and was followed by the opening of the firework show that began at 9 p.m. The spectacular firework show illuminated the sky with shimmering lights and colors that left many residents blown away.

The three-day celebration ended on Sunday, June 27, with a firing salsa making contest, where many local residents competed with one another.

This year’s Picnic in the Park welcomed a summer season of non-stop fun for children and adults. And if this wasn’t enough, put on your dancing shoes for the 65th Street Live! Summer Concerts in the Park.

The 65th Street Live! concert is an event for your entire family, friends, and neighbors. This event will be located on the grounds of Harada Heritage Park with all concert performances starting at 7:30 p.m. and ending at 9 p.m.

All concerts are free but there will be a nominal fee for the “fun zone” activities. The event will also have additional parking available on 68th street, and food vendors will be selling a variety of food and drinks.

Gather up your lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and food to celebrate the season with the following bands:

  • July 15- Southern Caliber- Country Band
  • July 22- Queen Nation- Queen Tribute Band
  • July 29- DSB- Journey Tribute Band
  • August 5- Mick Adams and the Stones- Rolling Stones Tribute Band
  • August 12- Elton The Early Years- Elton John Tribute
  • August 19- Led Zepplica- Led Zeppelin Tribute Band
  • August 26- NeON NaTiOn- 80’s Band

Moonlight Cinema continues to offer a night of family fun in watching some of your favorite movies under the stars. Bring your chairs and blankets to watch the following movies that will be shown at Orchard Park.

Future movies include:

  • August 13- Inside Out
  • September 10- Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day

As the City of Eastvale keeps growing so do the events! For those who attended the 2016 Picnic in the Park, JCSD wants to hear from you. You can go to www.surveymoneky.com/s/JCSDPIP and take the survey that will include about 44 questions to share any comments or recommendations for next year’s Picnic in the Park. For additional information visit www.parks.jcsd.us or call (951) 727-3524.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Tool Time

mark-hopper-color-2x2By Pastor Mark Hopper

 

What did you get your father on Father’s Day?  Some dads receive clothes and others were given sweets.  Many fathers like to get something useful and practical on Fathers Day.

I enjoy doing yard work but my most of my tools are old and well used.  But, why buy a new tool if the old one still works?

However, my electric hedge trimmer was not working very well.  The hedge trimmer had belonged to my father-in-law.

I don’t know how long he had owned it but it was probably over 30 years old.  It took a lot of time to trim the hedges around my house.  The results were not very good.  The trimmer was on its last legs.

Recently, I saw an ad in the mail that a local hardware store had a sale on a Black & Decker hedge trimmer.  I told my wife about the ad and how this would make a perfect Father’s Day gift.

What a difference a new tool can make!  I was able to trim the hedges in half the time and they looked much better than they did with the old trimmer.

I was surprised at how much better things looked and how much easier it was to get the job done.  I’m sure my neighbor’s were impressed too.

When I saw how much better the new trimmer worked, I wondered why I had waited so long to replace the old one.

Are some old tools or worn out appliances around your house?  Is that computer or smart phone you are using is almost an antique?

Maybe it is time to upgrade or replace a something in your life?  Don’t put it off.  Do something about it this week.  You will be glad you did and others will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.  Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.  For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit Efreedb.org.

West Nile Virus Found In Eastvale

Staff ReportsWest-Nile-WEB

Eastvale– The City of Eastvale recently reported that the first indications of West Nile virus in 2016 were detected in a sample of collected mosquitoes. The mosquitoes tested positive for the virus on June 15, according to the City of Eastvale.

“District staff will continue to canvass the area to look for and treat mosquito breeding sources,” a City of Eastvale news release stated.  “They will also post signs alerting residents of the detection of the virus along with preventative measures the public can take to keep from becoming infected with West Nile virus.”

The Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District have been routinely monitoring populations of adult mosquitoes and tests groups of adult female mosquitoes for the presence of mosquito-borne viruses.

Specifically, on June 17, 24 and 25, the Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District performed adult mosquito spray treatments to lower the mosquito population that had been affecting recreational and residential areas along the Santa Ana River in the City of Eastvale.

The treatments were conducted between the hours of 3 a.m. and 6 a.m. at the following locations: the Riverwalk Park, the bike trail next to the Santa Ana River, and Granja Vista Wetland located on Citrus Avenue between Riverwalk Park and Eastvale Community Park. Signs were posted prior, informing the public of the activities.

An approved mosquito treatment called Aqua-Reslin was used by the District, focusing on preventing mosquito breeding and killing mosquito larvae before they become flying adults. The Districts also have been working hard to use Integrated Pest Management Practices in the areas.

According to the District, due to the elevated trap counts, they decided that adult mosquito control via truck mounted ground fogger is the best means to control the current mosquito populations.

The District urges the public to conduct routine inspections on their properties for mosquito breeding sources.  Please look for any standing water around your home or neighborhood.  Remove the water source or contact the Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District to inspect and treat the source.  Remember, mosquitoes can complete their lifecycle in just one week in a water source as small as a bottle cap.

Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District urges residents to take the following precautions to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes:

  • Eliminate any standing water around your house and stock permanent ponds with fish that eat mosquito larvae.
  • Make sure all windows and door screens on your house are in good repair and tight fitting.
  • Wear protective clothing (long pants and long sleeves) or wear a mosquito repellant that contains DEET®, Picaridin, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus or IR 3535 when outside.
  • Limit outdoor activities during dusk and dawn hours. This is particularly important for elderly and small children.
  • Make sure roof gutters drain properly. Clean clogged gutters in the spring and fall.
  • Contact the Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District to report standing water or mosquito activity.

An infected mosquito can bite any animal, but not all animals will become infected. The disease most often affects birds, but occasionally causes disease in other animals as well, such as horses.

If you find a dead bird, particularly a dead crow or other corvid (e.g., jay, magpie, raven), please call 877-WNV-BIRD (877-968-2473) promptly. Also make sure you do not touch the bird. Dead birds will be submitted for testing for mosquito-borne viruses.

Contact the Northwest Mosquito and Vector Control District at 951-340-9792 with any questions or concerns. For additional information, you may also visit their website www.northwestmvcd.org

Any questions or concerns, you may contact the District at (951) 340-9792.

Veterans Memorial Wall Located In Chino

“Most walls keep people out, this wall brings people together.”

Staff Reports   

Chino– The Mobile Vietnam Veterans Memorial of the Antelope Valley display kicked off on June 30 with a parade and opening ceremony. The Mobile Memorial was presented by the Vietnam Wall For Chino and City of Chino.

Officers and local veterans from the Chino Police Department escorted the Memorial Wall to Ruben S. Ayala Park. The Chino Police Department proceeded south on Tenth Street, west on Riverside Drive, south on Central Avenue, east on College Park Avenue,  and left into the second parking lot on the left side of the street.

The Mobile Vietnam Veterans Memorial for the Antelope Valley was open to the public 24 hours a day until July 5. For more information, you can visit http://www.avwall.org.

 

The Mobile Vietnam Veterans Memorial display kicked off on June 30 with a parade and opening ceremony.

Photo courtesy: CVUSD
The Mobile Vietnam Veterans Memorial display kicked off on June 30 with a parade and opening ceremony.

Photo courtesy: City of Chino The Mobile Vietnam Veterans Memorial display kicked off on June 30 with a parade and opening ceremony.

Photo courtesy: City of Chino The Mobile Vietnam Veterans Memorial display kicked off on June 30 with a parade and opening ceremony.

Photo courtesy: Chino PD The Mobile Vietnam Veterans Memorial display kicked off on June 30 with the Chino Police Department escorted the Memorial Wall to Ayala Park.

Photo courtesy: Chino PD The Mobile Vietnam Veterans Memorial display kicked off on June 30 with the Chino Police Department escorted the Memorial Wall to Ayala Park.

My Son, My Sun

By Michael Armijo

I sat there on the brown, lacquered bar stool, with my arms on the counter, my face in my palms, and then the crowd walked in. Although there was a group of them, one stood out like a court jester on the royal throne. He was obviously the life of the party.

In a beat of the heart, I saw a reflection of myself as the loud, happy, party-goer. I remembered being that young man, feeling life on the edge, living with joyful enthusiasm. And then in another beat of the heart, I saw something else that scared the hell out of me. I saw a reflection of my son.

You see, the life I once lived, I am not proud. And I was scared for my son. I knew he would have to endure many of the emotions whose presence must move us. I knew he would have no choice but to learn many lessons the hard way. And I knew he would have to travel some paths that I too had to endure.

But I was still afraid. I didn’t want him to have to deal with the problems that I was exposed to: the adult decisions I made as a child; wandering through life guideless and fearful. To walk a path that my heart still refuses to acknowledge existed. I was afraid for him. Although he was older at the time, he was still my little boy.

I still remember how proud I was, when for the first time, he reached first base in Little League. I remember how I felt when he caught the winning pass during his first season of playing football. He is a grown man now, but I can still remember his tiny little smile, and his cute little “Ricky Ricardo” hair style. I can still remember his playful joy, and his childish, comedic grace. Always giggling, always dreaming of being a superhero – a Ninja Turtle, Batman, or Spiderman. The many Halloweens allowed him to be them all.

Although I miss those days, the days of holding him completely in my arms, I can still feel his childish warmth. My son makes me feel proud over and over again. His kindness, his joy, his talent, and most importantly, his gentle heart, brings waves of radiance that shine on my soul. He is not just my son, but the ray of light that come from his wonderful heart brings me all the light in the world. My son will always be the light in my life, because he will always be my ever-burning Sun.

 

Give The Ferris A Day Off!

Clarks-Header-WEB

Courtesy of C. Doussett MPH, RDN of Clark’s Nutrition

For many people, dieting is like being on a Ferris wheel, there are high and lows and at the start, it’s nothing but promises and anticipation. Yet too often the process is predictably circular and ends up back where it started. For others, dieting is like a carousel ride, dizzy circles mixed with a steady stream of anecdotes and gimmicks, which ultimately creates a plethora of predatory marketing mixed with well-intentioned “advices”. And yet for others, dieting is akin to riding an escalator between two floors, floor one is eat less and floor two is exercise more. Over time, these individuals become stuck in the middle and have to continually eat even less and exercise even more. This is a recipe for long-term failure, but not a failure of a person’s will but one of design.

So what is to be done? There has to be a better way (there is), it has to be easy to understand (not at first but eventually), and easy to implement (this is where it gets tricky). The trick to lasting and meaningful long-term weight loss in the pursuit of health and longevity is highly individual, subject to change, requires study (to both increase health literacy and to guard against sensationalism), and demands constant vigilance. I wish articles like these could offer the “perfect” advice for weight loss, but that would negate the fact that we are dynamic beings who age, deal with stress, experience profound change, and are subject to a genetic code that is at the mercy of our choices, which are at the mercy of our environment.

Yet it is imperative that some reasoned attempt to distill nutritional and lifestyle approaches into a consumable article be made. In that spirit, the following suggestions are given as a starting template for your consideration.

  • Hydrate: water and herbal teas are best. Drink when thirsty and drink extra when urine starts to darken. Both caffeinated sodas and alcohol can negatively influence hydrations status so consume as little as possible.
  • Sleep 7 to 9 hours nightly. Our body’s internal clock can be thrown out of balance in as little as four days of halved sleep (3.5 to 4.5 hours nightly). This may result in mood changes, difficulty learning or remembering, blood sugar imbalance which increases cravings, and difficulty in performing normal activities of daily living (ADLs).
  • Exercise: One hour daily apart from physical activity. Planned vigorous exercise is the hero to the villain we call disease.
  • Plan meals in this order: vegetables, protein, fatty fruits, fruits, legumes, nuts/seeds, and spices. Create an environment where these food choices are everywhere and your body will respond.
  • Seek purpose and avoid risky behaviors

Supplements may be a beneficial way to assist efforts at achieving or maintaining a healthy weight but they are not the strategy per se. Always seek the advice of health professionals and weigh your decisions carefully. For example, caffeine is by far the most popular choice to help an individual with cravings and to give much needed stimulation during calorie deficits and training sessions but for many people, caffeine has side effects that may derail weight loss efforts. If caffeine (at or around 200 mgs per dose) causes anxiety, hypoglycemia, severe jitteriness, insomnia, or loss of appetite it should be minimized or discontinued.

Keep in mind that our best life may be lived at twenty pounds above our prettiest weight, it happens, yet remain vigilant that a cheat day does not become a cheat decade. Lastly, those healthy actions we do once become easier to do twice, do those a thousand times and you have a habit, five thousand times is a skill, ten thousand is a profession, and any more than that is a life well lived. Ha

Chino National Night Out

Staff Reports

Chino – Chino PD in collaboration with Target, will celebrate their 33rd annual National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 2 from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. This event is celebrated with thousands of communities across the nation but this will be the eighth year that the Chino Police Department has participated in.

National Night Out is a nation-wide event designed to heighten crime prevention awareness, generate support for and participation in anti-crime programs, strengthen police-community partnerships and send a message to criminals that neighborhoods are organized and fighting back, according to the City of Chino.

Neighborhoods in the City of Chino are encouraged to participate in the National Night Out by hosting their own community event/block party. The event can include a BBQ, pool party, community walk, or another form of party. The Chino Police Department, in collaboration Target and the Chino Valley Fire Department will be visiting each neighborhood party in order to interact with community members, share information on Police and City resources, and provide giveaways.

“National Night Out is an opportunity for the members of the Chino Police Department to develop closer relationships with members of the community, as we join together to create safer neighborhoods,” said Police Chief Karen Comstock.

For additional information, please contact Olivia Applegate at 909.334.3087 or oapplegate@chinopd.org

Eastvale Welcomes New Code Enforcement Officer

City of Eastvale

Photo courtesy: City of Eastvale

Photo courtesy: City of Eastvale
Vanessa Lopez was named the new Code Enforcement Officer last month.

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale is pleased to welcome Vanessa Lopez as the new Code Enforcement Officer. Lopez began working at City Hall on Monday, April 18, 2016.
Vanessa completed the Explorer Academy at the age of thirteen and was a Police Explorer until the age of eighteen. Lopez was later hired by the Gardena Police Department as a Police Assistant. Due to her leadership abilities, she was quickly promoted to the newly formed Gardena Code Enforcement Department. While working for the City of Gardena, she implemented programs to clean-up areas with high gang-related call volumes and property maintenance issues. In 2008, Lopez was hired as a full-time Code Enforcement Officer in the City of Carson. Vanessa joins the City of Eastvale with ten years of experience. The City of Eastvale is honored to have her join the Eastvale team.
The City of Eastvale Code Enforcement Department is responsible for performing field inspections of properties to ensure compliance with applicable zoning, safety, fire and nuisance codes, ordinances and abatement regulations; to serve as a resource to other departments, divisions, and agencies; to resolve complaints and provide public education; and to perform a variety of technical duties.
City of Eastvale Municipal Code violations can be reported by using the city’s free E-Citizen App. Visit www.bitly.com/ECitizen for additional information.
We welcome Vanessa to the community and look forward to continuing to provide a high level of service to our residents and community.

 

How To Create A Cash Stash For Unexpected Expenses

By StatePoint  

Photo Courtesy: StatePoint

Photo Courtesy: StatePoint

Do you have a solid plan in place to support your financial goals that includes preparing for emergency expenses, too?

The best time to plan for unexpected expenses is well before they happen. One strategy to consider is to open an emergency savings account where you can stash cash specifically for unexpected expenses or short-term savings goals. That way, you can avoid having to pay for these expenses with a credit card and incur interest.

Regardless of your financial circumstances, a rainy day fund offers peace of mind and, if you plan well, it won’t derail your other long-term savings goals. To get one started, consider the following tips from Ally Financial Inc., which offers personal finance tips, tools and education through its Wallet Wise financial literacy program:

  • Create an account specifically for emergencies:

Many make the mistake of assuming that a standard savings account can also serve as a rainy day fund. However, dipping into savings when your roof leaks, may not be the best solution.

Start an account that’s only purpose is for emergencies. Some banks, such as Ally Bank, will allow you to create “nicknames” for the accounts to reinforce their purpose.

  • Specify amount to be allocated:

Set a goal for your fund that could cover most emergencies with a little extra to spare. (Some plumbing repairs can easily run close to $1,000.) Determine how much you would realistically need if an emergency were to arise.

Set up a recurring transfer or direct deposit to automate savings. If money is tight, decide where you’ll cut corners to make your plan work. For example, directing $30 a paycheck to a rainy day fund in lieu of going out for dinner one night will help plan for the future.

  • Fee free is the way to be:

Maximize your savings potential by finding a bank that won’t charge you a monthly maintenance fee, or penalize you for dipping into your emergency fund. Better yet, an account that earns a competitive interest rate or one that is compounded daily will allow your emergency fund to grow faster on its own.

  • Ensure you can access funds:

Many Money Market Accounts come with checks or a debit card to ensure quick access to funds, because emergencies usually don’t happen at convenient times.

The benefits of such accounts allow you to pay a locksmith, plumber or roofer directly without needing to run to the bank. Why add an additional step to a stressful situation?

For additional tips on what you need to know to be smart with your money, visit allywalletwise.com.

Everyone is going to face a situation where an emergency strains their budget. You don’t leave home in the rain without an umbrella, so don’t take on life without the same safety net. A rainy day fund is a smart way to guard against financial stress.

Traffic Collision In Chino Hills

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Deputies are investigating a minor injury traffic collision off Chino Hills Parkway and Ramona Ave., in Chino Hills.

On Monday, June 27 at about 2:21 p.m., Diana Cabrera, 25, of Ontario, was heading eastbound on Chino Hills Parkway near the intersection of Ramona Ave in the city of Chino Hills. Cabrera entered the intersection on a solid red signal. Brandon Roe, 22, of Chino Hills was heading southbound on Ramona Ave and collided into the rear driver side quarter panel of Cabrera’s vehicle. Cabrera’s vehicle rolled and came to rest on the vehicle’s roof.

Cabrera reported a minor injury and complained of pain, which resulted in the American Medical Response transferring Cabrera to Kaiser in the city of Ontario.

If you have any information about this incident, contact Deputy A. Ortega at (909) 364-2000.

 

Welcome Back to Walnut Valley!

Reuben Jones returns as new DBHS principal, Petria Gonzales named WHS assistant principal

By Kelli Gile

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile The WVUSD Board of Trustees unanimously approved Reuben Jones as the new principal at Diamond Bar High School.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
The WVUSD Board of Trustees unanimously approved Reuben Jones as the new principal at Diamond Bar High School.

Walnut–Two veteran educators will soon be coming home to the Walnut Valley Unified School District: Reuben Jones and Petria Gonzales.   

Reuben Jones has been named the new principal at Diamond Bar High School.

He brings 20 years of educational experience to his post as the 5th Brahma leader in the school’s 34-year history.

Jones will return to DBHS after being first hired in 1996 as a social science teacher and basketball coach.

He later served for a decade as instructional dean and grade level coordinator at Walnut High School. He also worked as summer school principal for four years.

Prior to working at Walnut High, he was an Academic Counselor at Cal Poly Pomona from 1999-2003.

For the past three years, Jones was assistant principal at Centennial High School in the Corona-Norco Unified School District, where he oversaw the International Baccalaureate, Advanced Placement, Science, and Career Technical Education programs.

Jones officially began duties on July 1. During the past several weeks, he spent time meeting with staff members and immersing himself school life.

He expressed hope in maintaining the school’s tradition of excellence and credits its stellar success to the caliber of teaching and wide-range of opportunities offered to the nearly 3,000 students.

“I’m thrilled to be coming back to Walnut Valley as principal of Diamond Bar High School,” said the school chief.

“My excitement to return largely stems from the rich history and meaningful traditions of Brahma culture. We have a legacy of strong relationships, teamwork, and pride in the job we do for our students!”

Jones received his bachelor’s degree at Cal Poly Pomona, master’s degree at Cal State Long Beach, and is currently pursuing a doctoral degree at University of La Verne.

He lives in Walnut with his wife Elisabeth, a Collegewood Elementary teacher, and three children.

Interim principals Denis Paul and Guy Roubian led the school for nine months after the departure of Catherine Real last August.

 

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile The Board of Trustees appointed Petria Gonzales as the new assistant principal at Walnut High School.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
The Board of Trustees appointed Petria Gonzales as the new assistant principal at Walnut High School.

The Board of Trustees also approved the appointment of Petria Gonzales as assistant principal at Walnut High School on June 15.

Gonzales, a WHS graduate, is very familiar with both the school and community.

She began her career in education 15 years ago as a Language arts teacher.

From there, she returned to Walnut Valley as director of activities for six years at Diamond Bar High School.

For the past five years, she served as assistant principal at Santiago High School in the CNUSD.

Gonzales holds a bachelor’s degree from Cal Poly Pomona and a master’s degree from Grand Canyon University. Her husband, Rich, is a DBHS grade level coordinator.

When she graduated from WHS 20 years ago, Gonzales (then Petria Biller), delivered a welcome address during the commencement ceremony, thanking the Mustang faculty for their dedication to education.

In fact, she predicted that a few members of the Class of 1996 “would be after your jobs!”

Twenty years later, Gonzales is proudly joining the staff as a key administrator.

“I look forward to working with the students, teachers, staff and community, continuing the tradition of excellence and coming home to my alma mater, Walnut High School,” she said.

Gonzales began her new assignment on July 1.

 

 

Life In The Fast-Food Lane

rob-norris-BW-2x2By Pastor Rob Norris

Remember the Sabbath day, to keep it holy. Exodus 20:8

When Truett Cathy opened his Dwarf House restaurant in the Atlanta suburb of Hapeville, Georgia in 1946, he made a decision never to deal with money on the Lord’s Day. The Dwarf House was always closed on Sundays.

Perhaps this policy didn’t seem extremely revolutionary to his post-World War II American patrons. But that small restaurant was the first franchise for Chick-fil-A® and by the organization’s sixtieth anniversary, it had multiplied into over 1,200 restaurant locations. As Chick-fil-A continues to grow, it also continues to close its operations on Sunday, traditionally one of the biggest days for food service.

Being closed on Sunday is a reflection of Truett’s purpose statement for his company. It’s an investment in the spiritual lives of his employees and a witness to both the watching world and the restaurant industry. He still refers to his closed-on-Sunday policy as “the best business decision I ever made.” In fact, Chick-fil-A restaurants often generate more money in six days than other comparable restaurants do in seven.

Being closed on Sunday is also a reflection of one of my core values: Sabbath rest. I believe that when we yield control of our lives to the Father – when we reserve our Sundays to turn from our activity to rest and to abide more fully in Him – we receive strength for daily living throughout the coming week and live under the blessing of God.

The Sabbath is God’s invitation to draw near to Him, to rest in Him, and to linger by His still waters. It’s how He helps detoxify you from the pressures of life. It’s how He restores your soul.

Perhaps it’s even how He makes Chick-fil-A sandwiches taste so good on Monday.

Live It
How does your family practice Sabbath rest? How could you make God-honoring relaxation more of a deliberate effort?

Pray
Ask the Lord to show you the value of keeping His Sabbath.

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

Summertime Pork Schnitzel

with Yellow Squash, Tomatoes, and Yukon Golds

By Hello Fresh  

Photo Courtesy: Hello Fresh

Photo Courtesy: Hello Fresh

Cooking Time: 30 min

Servings: 2

Nutrition: Calories: 630 cal, Fat: 26g, Sat. Fat: 7 g, Protein: 45g, Carbs: 55 g, Sugar: 9 g, Sodium: 271 mg, Fiber: 9 g

Ingredients:

  • Pork Chops- 12 oz.
  • Panko Breadcrumbs- ½ Cup
  • Sour Cream- 2 T
  • Yukon Potatoes- 12 oz.
  • Lemon- 1
  • Yellow Squash- 1
  • Parsley- ¼ oz.
  • Grape Tomatoes- 4 oz.
  • Dijon Mustard- 2t
  • Balsamic Vinegar- 1T
  • Oil- 5t

Preparation:

  1. Cook the potatoes: Wash and dry all produce. Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces. Place the potatoes in a large pot with a pinch of salt and enough water so they’re covered by 2 inches. Bring to a boil and cook 10-15 minutes, until fork-tender. Drain.
  2. Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard, 1 Tablespoon balsamic vinegar, and a large drizzle of oil (to taste). Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Prep the remaining ingredients: Zest and halve the lemon. Cut one half into wedges. Halve the tomatoes. Finely chop the parsley. Halve the squash lengthwise, then slice into half moons. Place the pork chops under a layer of plastic wrap and pound with a mallet or heavybottomed pan until about 1/2-inch thick.
  4. Bread the pork: Place the pork chops on a lightly oiled baking sheet. In a small bowl, combine the panko, parsley, a drizzle of oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Spread the sour cream evenly over each pork chop. Spread the pork chops with the breadcrumb mixture and press to adhere. Place in the oven for 8 minutes. Then heat broiler to high (or oven to 500 degrees) and broil 2 minutes, until golden brown.
  5. Cook the veggies: Meanwhile, heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the squash and cook, tossing, for 5-6 minutes, until soft and golden brown. Add the tomatoes and toss another 1-2 minutes, until softened. Add the potatoes and dressing to the pan and toss to combine. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  6. Plate: Serve the herb-crusted pork alongside the potatoes and veggies. Serve with a lemon wedge and a sprinkle of lemon zest!

Enjoy A Day At The Park

By Mayor Bootsma

July is Parks month and I encourage you to enjoy the warm weather at Eastvale’s beautiful parks. There are currently 13 parks in the City of Eastvale that account for approximately 250 acres of open space in our community.

Grab your pup and head over to American’s Heroes Park, 6608 Hellman Ave., for lunch and a playdate at the Dog Park.  With amenities for the whole family including a sheltered picnic area, playground area and agility equipment in the dog park, its perfect for a warm spring BBQ.

Have small children? Take them to Cedar Creek Park, 6709 Cedar Creek Road, which was designed with small children in mind. Kids are able to enjoy playing in the child play area or cool off at the splash pad in the water play area.

Harada Heritage Park, 13099 65th Street, is the largest park in the City of Eastvale with amenities including a skate park, fields for all different sports, a picnic and barbecue area, covered shelter and children’s play equipment. You could spend the season hitting softballs, practicing lay-ups, or dribbling a ball down the soccer field. Afterward, relax in the covered picnic area and enjoy a meal outside.

Unplug this summer and check-into one of our 13 beautiful parks. For a full list of parks, visit the City’s website at http://www.eastvaleca.gov.

Suspect Sought For Attempted Burglary

Staff Reports  

Chino Hills– The Chino Hills Police Department arrested one suspect for an attempted burglary at Lowes in Chino Hills, but one suspect is still being sought.

On Monday June 27, two suspicious suspects were reported to the Chino Hills Police Department by a Lowe’s Home Improvement employee.

The employees stated a customer was loading a large amount of tools into a shopping cart and they suspected he was going to run out of the store without paying, according to the Chino Hills Police Department.

As the deputies arrived to the Lowe’s Home Improvement Store on Peyton Drive, the suspect was caught pushing a shopping cart out of the emergency exit and began loading the tools into a U-Haul truck by a second suspect. The first suspect, identified as Samuel Felipe, 36-year-old resident of Ontario, was taken into custody without incident.

The other suspect ran from the scene and could not be located during an extensive search with the help of Police K9 and assistance of a helicopter. Chino Hills Station Investigators were able to positively identify the suspect as Nicholas Perez, 28-year-old resident of Pomona.

Perez attempted to steal over $1200.00 of merchandise from the Lowe’s Home Improvement store. The Chino Hills Deputies also recovered over $600.00 in merchandise that had been stolen at a Lowe’s store location in the Los Angeles County that same morning.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information regarding any other crimes these suspects were involved in, or the whereabouts of Nicolas Perez, is urged to contact the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000 or WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME (27469).

IE News: Volkswagen To Open Training Center In Eastvale

Staff Reports     

Eastvale– On June 15, Volkswagen confirmed that it will invest an estimated $4.5 million to open a new training center in Eastvale as well as its new $6.8 million Pacific Northwest Parts Distribution Center in Rocklin, CA. This will fulfill their commitment to the U.S. market and strategy to invest more than $7 billion in North America through 2019.

The President of and CEO of Volkswagen, Hinrich J. Woebcken says, “The new parts distribution center and upcoming training center in California is a testament to Volkswagen Group of America’s continued investment and commitment to the U.S. market, our customers, and dealers. Woebcken also stated, “The company remains focused on these types of strategic investments that will enable long-term growth in the United States.”

Volkswagen’s estimated $4.5 million to be invested in Eastvale will be to create a state-of-the-art training facility at the Goodman Commerce Center. It will house Volkswagen, Audi, and Porsche for the purposes of technical, collision repair, and sales training. This is the first facility to house all three brands, which is expected to open in the first quarter of 2017.

Other facilities in the United States for Volkswagen includes: Electronic Research Laboratory in Silicon Valley, a regional sales operations office in Woodland Hills, and the Test Center California in Oxnard. Volkswagen is one of the world’s leading automobile manufacturers and the largest carmaker in Europe. They also operate a manufacturing plant in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The company’s headquarters are in Herndon, Va. Founded in 1955, and has approximately 6,000 employees currently in the United States, they also sell its vehicles through a network of approximately 1,000 according to Volkswagen.

 

Independence Day Results Increased

Staff Reports

The Independence Day arrests and traffic deaths results have increased since last year. The Fourth of July Independence Day Maximum Enforcement Period covered a total of 78 hours from 6:01 p.m., July 2, to July 4, 11:59 pm. However, this year’s Independence Day Holiday Maximum Enforcement Period was 24 hours longer than 2015, which Police think may have attributed to the spike in arrests and fatal collisions.

The following details are results statewide and for LA County. The results include DUI arrests and fatal collisions.

Drunk Driving Arrests (CHP Only):
Statewide CHP DUI Arrests 2016: 1118
Statewide CHP DUI Arrests 2015: 930
Los Angeles County CHP DUI Arrests 2016: 211
Los Angeles County CHP DUI Arrests 2015: 207

Traffic Deaths:
Statewide 2016: 35 Killed
Statewide 2015: 26 Killed
Los Angeles County 2016: 6 Killed
Los Angeles County 2015: 2 Killed

The California Highway Patrol wants to remind you to think about the massive toll that drinking and driving causes. “Our goal is to help keep you safe, and to make California a great place to live, work and travel. The California Highway Patrol invests in your future by reducing fatalities, injuries, and crime. We always strive to provide the highest level of safety, service and security to all.”

For more information go to www.chp.ca.gov