The 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-Mar19-Weekly-WEB
Changing For The Right Reasons
By Sarah Sanchez
A common issue that comes up in relationships is changing your habits or personality for your significant other. This situation came up for me when my husband and I were dating.
Back when my husband was my boyfriend, I claimed to be a woman of God and I constantly nagged my husband for not going to church with me.
But one day, my husband said something that changed my life forever. He said that I had no right to tell him what to do because I was being a hypocrite, pretending to be a Christian on Sundays when I was really partying on the weekends. He also called me out on my relationship immaturity because I would consistently flirt or talk with people I previously dated.
It was at that moment that I decided to change my life for one sole reason: to prove him wrong! I was very stubborn and prideful back then and I was not going to take this guy calling me a hypocrite. So I changed my life for him.
I stopped flirting with other guys, going out to party, nagging him about church, and I pretty much fought every instinct I originally had. Life was great for a while, but then I eventually became very angry at him because I was sacrificing so much of my life for him, and I wasn’t receiving any praise for my sacrifices.
Later, I realized I handled this whole situation all wrong. First, my husband never told me to change for him, he was simply calling me out for not practicing what I was preaching. I was preaching to him that I was a Christian woman and that I was faithful to our relationship. However, my actions were not saying the same thing.
Deep down I knew that I didn’t want to be that hypocritical girl that I was. I wanted to actually live a Christian life and I wanted to be faithful in an adult relationship. I wanted to practice what I was preaching. My husband was just the first person to actually call me out and hold me accountable for my actions. So I decided that the only way I could change my life for who I wanted to be and for who God intended me to be… was that I had to want to change for myself.
It was a lot easier when I changed my mindset to that idea. Think of it as being told you have to eat healthy versus actually wanting to eat healthy. It’s easier to do it when you want to.
After I changed my mindset, I made a list of the traits and qualities I wanted to have. Then, I made decisions in my life based on that list and those goals. For example, if I wanted to live a life of honesty, I would think twice when I had an opportunity to lie. It took me a while to consistently think this way but I am a living example that it is possible to completely change your habits.
I found that this new way of living was ultimately better for my relationship, for my spiritual life, and for my well-being; all because I wanted to change.
Diamond Bar City Council Recap
By Natalie Kim
DIAMOND BAR-The March 1 Diamond Bar Council meeting began with an award presentation to Charles Fisher. Fisher reported suspicious activity in his neighborhood, which led to the apprehension of two burglars. He received $500 from the Report for Reward program. Planning Commissioner Bob Nishimura and Parks and Recreation Commissioner Ted Owens were also presented with a City Tile, in recognition for their years of service to the community.
Lt. Philip Marquez was also introduced as the newest member of the Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Team. Although Marquez is new to the city, he is not new to policing; he served the public for many years before his move to Diamond Bar.
During the public comments, several residents expressed their distaste for the Millennium home development. The lawyer representing the current owners of Millennium refuted several claims, but residents remained disgruntled.
Next, a Diamond Bar resident called for body cameras to be worn by the city police force, as they would help keep policemen accountable for their actions and possibly reduce unnecessary police force. The City Manager acknowledged the advantages of body cameras, and discussed current efforts to make body cameras part of standard police uniforms. A representative from the Diamond Bar Public Library then announced upcoming events, such a workshop regarding the new SAT and ACT tests on March 12 from 12-4 p.m., and a presentation about diabetes on March 14 from 2-3 p.m.
The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including the minutes from the City Council meeting of February 16; ratification of a check register totaling $762,553.58; the treasurer’s statement for the month of January 2015; an agreement with Exterior Products Corporation for services related to vertical street pole banners; a design and construction administration/inspection services contract for Area 4 residential and collector street rehabilitation to Onward Engineering, Inc; a contract amendment with Fehr & Peers for the development of the adaptive traffic control system request for proposal and travel time data collection; a resolution authorizing participation in the MiCTA Master Services Agreement government purchasing program and authorizing the City Manager to enter into a seven-year agreement with Time Warner Cable to purchase increased internet bandwidth; and a resolution amending the City’s personnel rules and regulations, effective March 2. The Council also approved the first reading of an ordinance amending city code relating to an administrative personnel system.
Following Council reports and comments, the Council adjourned until March 22 at 6:30 p.m. at 21865 Copley Dr.
The schedule of future events includes the Planning Commission meeting on March 8 at 7 p.m.; the Traffic and Transportation Commission meeting on March 10 at 7 p.m.; the Parks and Recreation Commission meeting on March 24 at 7 p.m.; and the State of the City by Mayor Lyons on March 30 at 6 p.m. at 1600 Grand Ave. The Planning Commission meeting for March 22 was cancelled, and the next City Council meeting was postponed to March 22 at 6:30 p.m.
Eastvale Cracks Down on Trash Scavengers
Staff Reports
EASTVALE– Did you know that Eastvale has an anti-scavenging ordinance? It is illegal to search through trash containers in the city of Eastvale. The purpose of the ordinance is to deter people from removing solid waste or recyclables from a public or private container.
The ordinance passed November 2012, after a rash of complaints from homeowners and businesses about trash scavengers. The law states that, “It shall be unlawful for any person to do any of the following: scavenge from, tamper with, move, steal, tip, deface, or destroy any solid waste collection container, or the contents thereof.”
After State Assembly Bill 341 was signed into law July 2012, requiring cities to achieve a 75% reduction in waste by 2020, it became important for the city to accurately capture and report the amount of recycling and solid waste diversion taking place in Eastvale, in order to meet the mandatory state requirements. For waste measurement purposes, diversion is any combination of waste prevention (source reduction), recycling, reuse and composting activities that reduce waste disposed at landfills and transformation facilities.
The ordinance imposes a $100 fine for the first offense; $200 for the second offense within one year; and $500 for each additional violation within one year.
In addition, the City of Eastvale has the right to confiscate all solid waste or recyclables from any person who is in violation of or who is failing to comply with any of the requirements of the ordinance.
The anti-scavenging ordinance is enforced by the city’s Code Enforcement Department. Residents are encouraged to report any instances of scavenging to the Eastvale Code Enforcement Department by calling (951) 361-2888 or emailing: Code_Complaint@eastvaleca.gov.
For more information about the City of Eastvale and useful recycling programs and resources, please visit: www.EastvaleCA.gov.
Van Donated To HARTT Center
By Kelli Gile
Walnut– The Hockwalt Adult Resource & Transition Training Center (HARTT) Center received the keys to their very own minivan on Tuesday.
When the silver 2014 Lincoln Town and Country minivan was delivered to the school, students immediately gave it the thumbs up.
“These are the kids’ lives you’ve changed today!” exclaimed teacher Cheryl Faren.
The new car was made possible through generous donations from the Walnut Valley Women’s Club, Penske Mercedes-Benz of West Covina, Dedicated 2 Learning (D2L), David Lee, and Davis Lu.
The HARTT Center, which opened in 2014, serves 18-22 year-old students with disabilities who are receiving a Certificate of Completion from high school. The Center teaches important life skills as students transition into adulthood. Partnerships with local business are helping the young adults develop job and vocational skills.
The 20 students and their job coaches take public transportation to their internships four days a week.
“Our students take public transportation everywhere. It’s a skill that they’ll need as adults to become independent,” said Special Education Director Judi Koorndyk.
But there are some areas the busses don’t go and they have to walk. And on hot or rainy days, the mile-trek can be very long.
“This new van is going to provide a lot of opportunity for our kids!” she added.
“One of the keys to the HARTT program is for students to get out into the community and have real life experiences to prepare them for life. And that’s hard to do without transportation,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.
The HARTT Center’s dedicated staff and parents had a vision to get a van from the very beginning. When Walnut Valley Women’s Club member Jeannie Stowell read about the opening of the new HARTT Center in the Highlander newspaper, she immediately cut out the article and brought it to friend Dee Chambers.
“We needed to do something for them,” the longtime members shared.
After touring the Center with Faren, they asked a question. “If you could have anything in the world for the program, what would be your first choice? She immediately replied ‘A van!’” Chambers explained.
“And we said, ‘We’ll do our best!’, and that’s how it got started,” she added. The Women’s Club donated $9,400 towards the van.
“We saw what incredible people at the HARTT Center are doing for kids today,” said Joe Mehanna, President of Penske Mercedes-Benz in West Covina after touring the Center. “And we want to be a part of this!” He added that Penske donated a portion of the cost of the new car for the HARTT Center.
“The least we can do as a business is give back to the (Walnut Valley) community and the kids!”
“The reason we’re here every day in our school district is to help kids and meet their needs, and we can’t do that alone,” said Taylor. “It takes a village!”
“It’s the whole community working together for them,” added Nancy Hogg, retired WVUSD administrator and D2L co-founder.
Faren is excited about the future with the school’s new wheels. “This will open up tons of new areas for us, like Brea Mall and Chino Hills.”
She also plans to help educate students about sites available after the HARTT program.
“Normally I’d have to get a school bus. Now, I can load up a couple kids that are aging out and take them around. It will be so nice!”
“His Cross”
18Colossians 1:20 “…having made peace through the blood of His cross.”
By Pastor Dennis Morales
Why a cross? When we see a cross today we may think of it as a symbol of Christian faith. Some wear it as a piece of fine jewelry and some hang it on a wall as an element of décor. In reality, the cross was the cruelest form of punishment known to man during Rome’s rule. It was known to the people of the day as a bloody symbol of cruelty and torture. It was designed to humiliate a person. The cross was a brittle piece of wood and it was meant to bring the most excruciating pain allowing for the slowest possible way of death. Truthfully, if there was any other means of forgiveness, I don’t think God would have allowed His Son to suffer in such a way. If we could access Heaven through good deeds and a moral life, the Bible says then Jesus would have “died in vain” (Galatians 2:21). But the fact is that Jesus did die because there was no other way and He paid the price of sin at the Cross. In Jesus, salvation is made available to the whole world. The “good news” is that death could not hold Him and that He rose! (1 Peter 1:3). Death died at the Cross (Hebrews 2:14). It has no more power! Have you doubted God’s love for you? Jesus willingly stretched out His arms on that Cross for you and me. Remember, it was love that held Jesus to the Cross. Easter Services at Calvary: Good Friday at 7 p.m./Easter Sunday at 8 a.m./10:30 a.m.
Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., and Wednesdays, 7:00 p.m. at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale). Visit their website at http://www.calvaryeastvale.org.
The Weight Gain-Inflammation Connection
Courtesy of Myfitnesspal.com
When we think about inflammation, we often think of it as helping us heal from an obvious injury (like a wound) or fighting harmful bacteria. This is good inflammation, working in our favor to keep us healthy. But on the flip side, when the immune system is too active, it can make us sick.
We know that major chronic illnesses, such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes, are linked to weight gain, but did you ever wonder how those diseases and inflammation are all intertwined?
Understanding inflammation, especially “bad” inflammation, will help explain this connection.
The difference between “good” and “bad” inflammation
Inflammation is a process you can’t actually see, so how do you know if it’s “good” or “bad”?
Think about the last time you got a bruise. The blood and fluid that rushed in to create that purplish swollen area is the definition of inflammation. As you heal, inflammation subsides and eventually goes away. This is how “good” inflammation is supposed to happen.
But sometimes inflammation can get us into trouble. An example: an allergy where our immune system overreacts to relatively harmless foods (think: peanut butter, shellfish, eggs) or substances (think: pollen, dust, latex).
Poor habits like eating an unhealthy diet, not exercising enough and consuming too much sugar can contribute to a bad type of inflammation called “chronic” inflammation. These habits turn the immune system “on” and help it stay activated for a long period of time. Along with other factors, chronic inflammation can lead to chronic illness.
Inflammation and illness
The way our immune system reacts to smoking and stress increases our risk for heart disease. How? Smoking and stress damage cells and activate your immune system, leading to a low level of chronic inflammation. Over time, chronic inflammation makes your arteries more likely to collect plaque, which stiffens and clogs them, and can lead to heart disease.
Chronic inflammation contributes to type 2 diabetes by worsening “insulin resistance”, a condition where your body produces insulin but your cells don’t respond to it very well so your blood sugar stays abnormally high. How does chronic inflammation do this? Simply put, fat cells are capable of creating chemical signals that lead to chronic inflammation. But they mainly do so when you habitually eat too many calories and sugar. These chemical signals also mess with the way that insulin works in our bodies, aggravating insulin resistance.
Chronic Inflammation and weight gain
If fat cells can contribute to chronic inflammation, then it’s reasonable to expect that weight gain, especially in the form of fat tissue, also contributes to chronic inflammation. As we gain weight, some fat cells expand beyond their capacity while trying to do their job storing extra calories as fat. When this happens, they turn on and add to the inflammation already present in our bodies. At this point, these cells aren’t just fat storage warehouses—they’re like little inflammation factories, sending out signals to activate the immune system. Losing weight allows the fat cells to shrink back to a more normal size and turns off the signals that trigger chronic inflammation.
6 tips for reducing chronic inflammation
Changing your diet and losing weight are two of the best ways to lower inflammation. Here are some tips:
- Eat antioxidants and polyphenols:Eating antioxidant- and polyphenol-rich foods can cut down on inflammation by reducing “free-radical damage.” Free radicals are generated by the body when it’s in a state of stress. If the immune system becomes overwhelmed by free radicals, cells are harmed and inflammation gets worse. Antioxidants and polyphenols are great for fighting that process. To get them, try drinking green tea and eating a rainbow of fruits and veggies; here are some examples of what to reach for: broccoli, kale, collards, rutabaga, turnips, berries.
- Consume essential fats: Getting a good ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in your diet is important for reducing inflammation. Most of us consume too much omega-6 and not enough omega-3, so the key to balancing things is to increase omega-3 intake. Omega-6-heavy foods like seeds and nuts and their oils, and refined vegetable oils (used in many snack foods, crackers, cookies, etc.), tend to stir up inflammation, while foods high in omega-3 fatty acids like salmon, flax and chia seeds, avocado and walnuts dampen it.
- Add spices:Turmeric, garlic, cinnamon, cayenne pepper and ginger have all been shown in studies to have anti-inflammatory properties. You can’t overdo these, so sprinkle them liberally onto your food.
- Exercise:Moving around releases a burst of anti-inflammatory proteins from the cells to the rest of the body. However, moderate exercise is key. An example of moderate exercise is 45–60 minutes of cardio, such as walking or jogging, about three times a week.
- Stress:Cortisol, the so-called “stress” hormone, wears many other hats, including regulating the immune response. Reducing stress helps to keep hormones like cortisol under control and that, in turn, helps lower inflammation.
- Sleep:Lack of sleep makes the body ripe for infection, while more sleep has the opposite effect. A review of several studies published in 2008 found that sleeping less than eight hours a night was linked to weight gain. There is a complex yet harmonious dance occurring in your body during restful sleep; this strengthens your immune system in a good way.
Walnut Hero Nominations Now Being Accepted
Courtesy of the City of Walnut
WALNUT– The City of Walnut is seeking nominations for our “L.A. County Fair Community Hero 2016” who will also serve as the 2016 Family Festival Parade Grand Marshal.
A Community Hero is someone who works determinedly to make a difference in the community without thought of recognition or reward. They volunteer at local hospitals, schools, churches and organizations such as Relay for Life, American Red Cross and Habitat for Humanity. This is your chance to nominate an individual whom you feel contributes to the quality of life in Walnut.
Selected heroes will be honored at the L.A. County Fair during a special presentation that will take place on Walnut’s Day at the Fair on Thursday, September 15, 2016. The Walnut Family Festival will follow on Saturday, October 8.
Nomination Forms are available at http://www.ci.walnut.ca.us , or you may call (909) 598-5605 to have one mailed to you. Nomination submissions may be mailed to P.O. Box 682, Walnut, CA 91788-0682 or faxed to (909) 598-2160.
The deadline to submit a nomination is Thursday, May 26, 2016. The volunteer Walnut Family Festival committee will review all nominees and their contributions to the Walnut community before making a selection.
Residents Invited to Legal Aid Workshop
Courtesy of the City of Chino Hills
CHINO HILLS – Residents are invited to attend a free Legal Aid Workshop from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Tuesday, March 22 at the Chino Hills Community Center, 14250 Peyton Drive.
The workshop leaders will not be available during a lunch period from 12 to 1 p.m. The Legal Aid Society of San Bernardino provides legal services to low income residents throughout the County of San Bernardino for a variety of civil cases. Qualified residents may receive free legal consultation on a broad spectrum of legal issues as well as affordable access to the legal system. Residents receive document preparation, step-by-step instructions to facilitate requests for court orders, and help navigating the court system.
The judicial system access provided by Legal Aid will allow residents to secure lawful orders in parental rights, child and family support, custody and visitation, freedom from domestic violence and civil harassment, prevention of elder abuse, guardianship to provide care and access to health care for minors of absent parents, or conservatorship to provide care and access to health care for dependent disabled adults.
Note: the workshop leaders will not be available during a lunch period from 12 to 1 p.m.
For more information, visit the Legal Aid Society of San Bernardino website at http://www.legalaidofsb.org, or call toll-free at (866) 889-7328.
5th Annual Eastvale State of the City Address
Staff Reports
Eastvale – The 5th Annual State of the City, presented by the Eastvale Community Foundation, will be held on Tuesday, April 5 at the Eastvale Community Center.
The cocktail reception will be held in the Pinnacle Room at 5:30 p.m. for all VIPs and Sponsors, with dinner following at 6 p.m. Tickets for the dinner are available at $50 each, which includes the cocktail reception.
The State of the City Presentation will be held in the Gymnasium at 7 p.m., which is free and open to the public. A dessert reception will follow the presentation, which is also open to the public. Everyone is encouraged to attend.
The following sponsorship opportunities are available: Platinum at $5,000, Gold at $2500, Silver at $1500 and Bronze at $750. All sponsorships must be received by Monday, March 21.
The Platinum Sponsorship includes a reserved table of 10 at the event dinner, a table in the Sponsor Promotional Area, a full page ad in the event program, recognition in the slide show during the event, and an ad on the Eastvale Community Foundation website.
The Gold Sponsorship includes four tickets for the event dinner, a table in the Sponsor Promotional Area, a ½ page ad in the event program, and recognition on the Eastvale Community Foundation website.
The Silver Sponsorship includes two tickets for the event dinner, a table in the Sponsor Promotional Area, and a ¼ page ad in the event program.
Lastly, the Bronze Sponsorship includes a table in the Sponsor Promotional Area and a business card sized ad in the event program.
In addition, you may also purchase ads in the program, ranging from $150 to $900 per ad. Digital art is not included and must be provided.
For more information regarding this event, please contact the Eastvale Community Foundation at (951) 263-0345 or email eastvalefoundation@gmail.com. You may also visit their website at EastvaleFoudnation.org.
DBHS Sophomore Wins Holocaust Art Contest
Photo courtesy of Diamond Bar HS
Holocaust Art Contest Winner Hailey Shi
Courtesy of DBHS
Diamond Bar– On Friday, March 4, Diamond Bar High School sophomore Hailey Shi won 1st place in the annual Holocaust Art and Writing Contest held at Chapman University.
Hailey previously won the Holocaust Art and Writing Contest in the Middle School category when she was in the 8th grade. Earlier this year, she decided she wanted to submit an entry as a high school student.
In order to prepare for the competition, Hailey listened to hours of tape recorded interviews of Holocaust survivors. She played the recordings in the car as her parents drove her to school and back. After listening to the horrific memories of a number of survivors, she chose Mr. Sol Liber as the person to whom she dedicated her painting. Hailey felt a deep emotional connection to the suffering he endured. His memories evoked visual imagery that she created in response to his life story.
The resulting painting is a blend of portraiture, emotional drama, and heart-wrenching imagery. Hailey is skilled at composition, color, and dramatic lighting.
In partnership with The 1939 Society, one of the largest and most active Holocaust survivor organizations in the United States, and with the support of the Samueli Foundation, Dana and Yossie Hollander and others, the Rodgers Center for Holocaust Education annually sponsors an art and writing contest for middle and high school students.
Focusing on themes central both to the Holocaust and to ethical decision making in our world today, the contest gives students from public, private and parochial schools the opportunity to share their creative works in response to survivors’ oral testimonies.
Representatives and educators from each school attend the awards ceremony, where they meet Holocaust survivors. First-place student winners, their parents/guardians and teachers are invited to participate in an afternoon conversation, followed by a special event dinner, in Los Angeles with 1939 Society members who are survivors and witnesses to the Holocaust.
Ontario City Council Public Hearing on Harvest Power Permit
Courtesy of the guardian
By Nicole Leiva
ONTARIO– Harvest Power appealed a conditional-use permit denial at a public hearing on March 1, during the Ontario City Council meeting. Harvest Power, who wants to establish and operate an organic materials facility on 34 acres near the Chino border at Campus and Schaefer, composts green waste, manure, food materials, fats and grease. Ontario’s zoning administrator turned down the original permit request, and on appeal, the Planning Commission unanimously turned it down as well. Ontario City Councilman Alan Wapner requested a council review, and Harvest filed an appeal.
Robert Vandenheuvel is the General Manager of the Milk Producers Council, a non-profit trade association representing dairy farmers in Chino, Ontario and Eastvale. He and his members are concerned about the location of the proposed waste processing facility. The designated location for this plant is right next to a newly constructed water treatment facility for the City of Chino. The farmers and residents near the location are concerned about water contamination, increased truck traffic and fire hazards that have become common with green waste processing facilities.
Ten residents and farmers were allotted time to share their concerns about the green waste facility with the council members. The citizens that live and/or work near the designated location spoke of their concerns about the lack of regulations on compost waste facilities, increased traffic, potential water contamination, potential exposure to toxic smells in the air, and potential fires at the waste facility that can spread to the nearby dairies and kill livestock. There have already been fires at some of the other eight composting facilities in the area.
The Director of Community Development for the City of Chino, Nick Liguori, stated his concern that so far, there have been no environmental studies done regarding the plant. In addition, other representatives from Chino were concerned that the location of the plant will be too close to the newly built water treatment facility. At the very least, the City of Chino said that they would like environmental studies to be conducted before the Ontario City Council approves the contract.
In opposition to those who spoke against the waste processing facility, a representative from the Ontario Chamber of Commerce gave the Chamber’s support for the project. A lawyer for Harvest Power spoke to defend the company and dispute the statements from the residents/farmers. A representative from Harvest Power spoke during the public hearing and he listed off prestigious awards the company has been awarded, the services they provide and told how the company will develop into a member of the community.
After all the statements, Ontario Mayor Paul Leon was ready to vote to overturn the decision from the Planning Commission, but two council members, Bowman and Avila, were still adamantly against the project, citing concerns about resident and animal safety, increased traffic and potential water contamination. Councilman Bowman also expressed that because the testimony from the residents/farmers was very compelling, he would be voting against the project. Councilwoman Dorst-Porada also had questions and concerns about the safety of the facility.
Mayor Leon said that although he was inclined to support the project, the council members could not come to an agreement, and because of that, he will request a town hall meeting with Harvest Power, so residents have their questions and concerns addressed. The council will schedule a vote after the town hall meeting.
Pomona Bicycle Rodeo
Courtesy of the Pomona Police Dept.
POMONA– The Pomona Bicycle Rodeo, for kids aged 3-10, will be held on Saturday April 16, 2016, from 8:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m., at the Pomona Civic Center at Mission Blvd. and Garey Avenue.
Police officers will inspect bicycles, provide personalized education, and assist children as they ride their bikes through riding patterns.
Kids who live in Pomona and bring their own bicycle will be provided a free helmet, while supplies last. Police officers will get behind the grill to prepare hot dogs, and chips and drinks will also be served. Several displays will be set up, including the opportunity for kids to take pictures wearing police gear and on a police motorcycle or in a police car.
A brand new bicycle will be raffled off free during the event.
Eastvale City Council Recap
By Emily Aguilar
EASTVALE– The Eastvale City Council had a busy February, with two city council meetings and a lot of discussion about a variety of issues facing the city.
The first meeting, which occurred on February 10th, began with a quick Public Safety Commission update. It was shared that Fire Station 27 is working on their mass communication systems in an attempt to connect with over 16,000 households via phone calls, text messages, and social media for emergency alerts and traffic updates. The police department also showed interest in attaining new electronic devices, which can create documents and issue warrants and citations more rapidly upon receiving 911 calls. This topic would be discussed later. Following the update, Peggy Carbrite announced that Riverside City College will be celebrating its 100-year anniversary on March 13th, while Norco College and Moreno Valley College will be celebrating their 25th anniversary on the same date. Bootsma handed Carbrite an award of recognition.
Before moving onto the Student Liaison Report, Michele Nissen quickly introduced Craig Bradshaw, Senior Engineer with Eastvale’s Public Works Department.
Julia Sung then took the opportunity to announce that Eleanor Roosevelt High School is looking forward to opening its STEM Academy in 2018. Current ERHS Vice-Principal Kim Lawe will be the STEM Academy’s principal. While 2018 is still far away for aspiring STEM students, ERHS is currently holding after-school clubs to prepare students interested in medicine for the school’s opening.
Next, Jeremy Hutman, a representative from California First, briefly spoke about the California First project in order to persuade the city to participate. His goal was to make the project available to property owners. The council thanked him for his presentation.
After motioning the items on the consent calendar, city staff gave a presentation on the city’s El Nino Emergency Plan. In anticipation of this year’s heavy rainfall, the plan makes sandbags available to citizens, makes sure ditches and channels are cleaned and drained, and a map to guide drivers through traffic in case certain streets become flooded will be available. The plan was filed and received.
Next, Captain Jason Horton from the Eastvale Police Department persuaded council members to motion approval for electronic citation devices. Traditionally, Captain Horton argued, writing a citation takes anywhere between 5-10 minutes. If the police department had electronic citation devices, officers would have the ability to submit the time and place of the citation, and they would also be able to record the violator’s information. The biggest benefit of the electronic devices, as Captain Horton illustrated, would be that once the violator’s information is recorded, it could quickly be sent to the Jurupa Valley Department. After the presentation turned to a Q&A discussion, Rush and other council members expressed concern that a person’s information would be automatically recorded, meaning that an innocent person may be automatically branded as a criminal. Horton explained that while a person may have their information submitted into the police department’s database, the person would still have an opportunity to have their name cleared if they abide by the next steps in the process. Another aspect that did not draw the council’s support was the fact that the citation devices would cost $14,807, which would come from the council’s budget. After an elongated discussion, the motion was passed 4-1, Lorimor having voted against the plan.
Following Horton’s presentation, the council moved on to a series of other presentations. City staff asked the council to approve a contract with Blackboard to create a mass communication system for the city. While similar to the police department’s mass communication system, this one in particular would include citizen registration to receive notification about severe weather, floods, wildfires, and police enforcement incidents. The request was rejected by a 3-2 decision. The council also rejected the recommendation to join the Safety Joint Powers Authority Study, due to the fact that the city would have to pay fees close to $32,000. The request for frontage landscape revitalization on Hamner and Jamestown was approved. The plan calls for approval of drought tolerant landscaping in order to have green spaces during the drought. The council also approved the new budget calendar and the authorization of professional auditing services.
During the city staff update, the Sheriff Department stated that the Riverside Police Department would be in Palm Desert helping to guard President Obama, who visited that weekend. The police were anticipating a heavy protester presence.
In closing, Bootsma announced that the WRCOG street project was moving forward in its progress.
The meeting held on February 24 began with a thirty-minute closed session. When the council emerged, it stated that there wasn’t any action to be reported at the moment; and thus, the regular meeting began.
Sharon Link once again announced good news regarding military banners. Currently, four are undergoing approval, and the community is also looking to extend banner posts on Schleisman Ave. because there is no longer enough space on Archibald. Link also announced that flyers will soon be passed out to promote the “State of the City” event set to occur in April.
During the Public Comment portion of the evening, resident Patty Duro spoke regarding the traffic issues near the Homecoming entrance of Aldergate. As a result of heavy traffic on Hellman and on nearby streets, cars have resorted to cutting through Aldergate to reach their desired destinations, such as the local park. Duro feels that this influx of traffic will cause accidents, especially since the street does not contain any road signs or traffic lights. Duro was then directed to a city staffer who took time to speak with her independently.
Next on the agenda list were two resolutions to collect assessments for landscaping and lighting maintenance districts for the 2016/2017 fiscal year. The resolutions were approved.
During the city staff reports, Michele Nissen announced that City Hall had applied to begin a program offering paid internships to undergraduate and graduate students. They should know if it will be approved by the summer. Also, the city received an $84,000 grant to install flashing radar speed signs near school zones.
The City Council Communications Report showed that the Eastvale Police Department and CNUSD schools had partnered to hold events to educate citizens about bicycle safety. The police department also announced that they had distributed 221 traffic citations, and addressed the fact that some neighborhoods had fallen victim to mail theft. Thankfully, one thief has been arrested, and there is a warrant for another suspect.
In closing, Lorimore stated that he will be attending a SCAG meeting on May 4th. Rush also announced that the 91 freeway project is “moving forward”. Lastly, Bootsma reminded the audience that ERHS’ “Every 15 Minute Program” would be held once more in April, and invited everyone to attend.
Chino Hills Hosts 24th Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Courtesy of the City of Chino Hills
Hop on down the bunny trail and join us for an “Eggstra-Special” day filled with adventures and surprises. Spend time with family and friends and create wonderful spring memories. Participate in a variety of activities including egg hunts, pictures with the Easter Bunny, crafts, musical entertainment, a craft fair, and refreshments to purchase. No outside baskets or bags allowed. The City will provide bags for egg hunts.
When
Saturday, March 26
11:00 am to 2:00 pm
Where
Chino Hills Community Park
3280 Eucalyptus Avenue
Egg Hunt Schedule
11:15 am Infant to 2 years old*
11:45 am 3 to 4 years old*
12:15 pm 5 to 6 years old
12:45 pm 7 to 8 years old
1:15 pm 9 to 12 years old
* Adult assistance, if needed
Answered Prayers
Pastor Ed Moreno
By Pastor Ed Moreno
In the first church the Lord enabled me to plant, there was a little girl by the name of Mandy. Mandy was born with serious kidney problems and at just fourteen months old she had to have surgery.
When the tubes were put down her throat, Mandy’s vocal cords got lacerated. The medical professionals made it clear to her parents that Mandy might never be able to speak, and that if she did it would be with a low, gravelly kind of voice.
At age three, Mandy still had not made any vocal sounds, so her parents began to teach her sign language. It was at about this same time that Mandy’s parents brought her to the church elders and myself to pray that God would intervene. (See James 5:14, 15)
Within six months, not only was Mandy speaking but singing! And what was especially confounding was that, from a physiological standpoint, Mandy should not have had the capacity to sing because of her lacerated vocal cords. It had been unlikely that she would ever be able to speak, but sing? Well, that was simply never going to be a possibility.
And, yet, Mandy sang. And at age five, Mandy was actually singing solos in the adult worship services – with a voice so strong and pure that it left the listeners amazed that one so young could sing so beautifully.
Let me say again, from a physiological standpoint, Mandy did not have the capacity to sing because of her lacerated vocal cords. But there she was on the stage making it clear to everyone who heard her that God is still in the business of performing astounding miracles in response to the prayers of his people.
Folks, in every area of life, the followers of Jesus are authorized to pray for healings and miracles of all kinds. And out of his great love, mercy and grace, God in his sovereignty will regularly choose to intervene and grant some of those healings and miracles. So I want to encourage you, dear ones, to never hesitate to pray and ask God for them.
New Day Christian Church meets Sundays at 9:30 and 11 a.m. They are located at 7155 Hamner Avenue, at Schleisman Road. For more information, visit http://www.newdaycc.net.
Tint Your Windows At Mr. Tint
Mr. Tint is conveniently located just minutes from Eastvale at 1780 Town and Country Drive, #104, in Norco (near the post office and DMV). Call them at (951) 737-7007 for more information, or visit their website at http://www.mrtint-ie.com.
Staff Reports
NORCO – Car window tinting is one of the best ways to improve the look and comfort of your vehicle. You can protect the interior of the vehicle from sun damage by tinting the windows. Sunlight and heat can cause your interior, like seats and the dashboard, to fade, crack and deteriorate. Window tinting reduces the sunlight allowed into the vehicle, which in turn reduces how hot it gets inside your car. Likewise, homes and offices heat up during the day, and trying to keep your air-conditioner ahead of the game can be costly.
Car window tinting also increases the value of your vehicle when done by professionals like Mr. Tint. Quality car window tinting and expert installation is essential for a professional tint job and maintaining a showroom-quality car.
Mr. Tint has a solution for autos, homes, and commercial buildings. By tinting your windows, you can not only save up to 30% on your cooling costs with a significant decrease in heat, but you can reduce up to 99% of the UV rays that fade auto interiors, window coverings and furniture in your home and office.
There is one goal prevalent at Mr. Tint, and that is for their customers to be 100% satisfied. They are focused on not only providing a superior product, but with offering competitive pricing alongside exceptional customer service. Mr. Tint believes in treating the customer right in all aspects of their business. By earning your loyalty, you will refer your family, friends and business associates, and come back time and again.
Family owned and operated, Mr. Tint offers free estimates and lifetime warranties. With over 20 years of experience, the quality of their workmanship is second to none. They are completely sure you will be satisfied, and invite you to see what other customers are saying on Yelp.com.
Business hours are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Same-day service is available, and you can enjoy free beverages and Wi-Fi while you wait, or take advantage of their free shuttle service (within 10 miles).
Mr. Tint is conveniently located just minutes from Eastvale at 1780 Town and Country Drive, #104, in Norco (near the post office and DMV). Call them at (951) 737-7007 for more information, or visit their website at http://www.mrtint-ie.com. See their ad on page 5 of this publication.
Straight Talk With Danice
Danice Akiyoshi
“Spoiled Sister”
By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.
Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:
Both of my parents passed away two years ago. My sister was very dependent on both of them. Now that they’re gone, she looks to me to entertain her at every holiday and birthday, as if she were still a child, and bail her out financially when she makes stupid mistakes. She never pitches in for anything that doesn’t directly affect her. She makes comments like “mom and dad would want you to take care of me. I’m the baby of the family and you make more money than me,” (she is 47). Neither of us is married, but I don’t want her to think that she can lean on me for the rest of her life.
-Fed Up
Dear Fed Up:
Your sister has a sense of entitlement. Make it clear that you have no interest in acting out the role of her parent or spouse. I’m guessing that your parents did her a major disservice by allowing her to arrive into middle age with this degree of emotional immaturity. Make it clear that your role is that of a sibling and not a caretaker. Be honest about the fact that you no longer even see her as enjoyable company because of the way she takes you for granted. If you have feelings of guilt, or have trouble standing up to her manipulation tactics, I would be happy to assist you.
Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She 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.
So Many CIF Championships!
Photo by Jennifer Heyen
Over 12,000 people packed the Honda Center on March 5 to watch the Chino Hills Huskies win the CIF-SS Open Division Championship.
By Carol Heyen
Chino Hills – What a great year for basketball!
The Chino Hills Huskies, the Ayala Bulldogs and the Diamond Ranch Panthers boys’ basketball teams all won their respective CIF Southern Section championships.
In front of a Honda Center crowd estimated at 12,000, the #1 team in the nation, the Chino Hills Huskies, took an early and decisive lead against Chatsworth’s Sierra Canyon in the Open Division Championship. With a first quarter score of 26-8, and a halftime score of 49-26, the Huskies were on their way to their 17th 100-point game, one shy of the state record of 18. Mc Donald’s All-American Lonzo Ball finished with another triple-double, scoring 20 points, 17 rebounds, 10 assists, four blocked shots and two steals. Younger brother LiAngelo was the Huskies’ high scorer with 31 points and 7 rebounds. All five starters finished the game in the double digits.
“We’re glad we got the win, but at the end of the day, we still got to get one more,” Lonzo said. “It’s another step. We took that step and now we have to get to the top.”
Chino Hills now advances to the State Championships with a 31-0 record after their 105-83 win.
Ayala’s #1 seeded Bulldogs dominated Edison on Saturday night to win their Division 2A Championship 63-29. The Bulldogs took the lead late in the first quarter and were never threatened again by #2 seed Edison. John Edgar and Austen Awosika scored 19 points each, and Edgar led the rebound count with nine. Fellow senior Miles President added 13 points.
“I’ve been doing this (coaching) 25 years,” Ayala coach John Mounce said. “It means a lot to me, it means a lot to our school and it means a lot to these kids who have worked so hard.”
Diamond Ranch’s Panthers won their first 3A CIF-SS Championship under the skilled guidance of Head Coach Eric Cooper. Cooper, who led La Verne Lutheran to two CIF championships and two state titles, was delighted to see his Panthers beat the Chaminade Eagles at Azusa Pacific University on Friday. Diamond Ranch’s constant pressure, and Roman Silva’s 22 points and 12 rebounds helped defeat the Eagles 53-48.
“I thought our guards outplayed their guards,” Cooper said. “When they made a run, we really clamped down and got stops when we needed them.”
The Huskies will take on Immanuel High from Reedly, the Bulldogs will play Bakersfield’s West High School and Diamond Ranch will take on Kern Valley in the first round of the state playoffs.
Eastvale Quarterly Town Hall Meeting
By Valerie Gutierrez
EASTVALE– Eastvale’s first Quarterly Town Hall meeting of 2016 was held on Tuesday, February 9, at Rosa Parks Elementary. The meeting was conducted to update the community on the latest news from various departments and organizations during the last couple of months.
Mayor Ike Bootsma updated residents on the issues the city is facing in 2016.
The Community Emergency Response Training (CERT)is continuing to offer free classes paid for by the city through a Homeland Security grant. An E-Notification App has been launched and will help in reporting non-emergency issues such as graffiti, pot-holes, sewer leaks, landscape and water waste.
Bootsma was proud to announce that Eastvale Gateway (South) has already opened Juice It Up! and Panera Bread. What has Eastvale residents really excited is the announcement of the Pacific Fish Grill restaurant coming to Eastvale Gateway. It should open in early March.
The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has been staying busy these past couple of months. Assistant Chief of Police for the city of Eastvale, Lt. Scott Forbes, said that residents have been reporting ongoing mail theft and vehicle burglary problems. Many vehicle burglaries have occurred in the shopping centers surrounding businesses on Limonite and Hamner Avenues.
Regarding mail theft, Lt. Forbes stated that mail theft in Eastvale is not something unique to the city; it is happening in the entire region. The Eastvale Police Department is working with the postmaster in San Bernardino to deal with individual thefts and trends that are occurring. The department has identified and arrested one individual involved with mail theft.
Since the school year started, traffic has been a huge concern for residents, especially those who frequent Limonite, Hamner, Archibald and Sumner Avenues, Citrus Street and many of the school routes and main intersections. There have been seven collisions since the school year started that involved students who were riding their bicycles to school. Of those students, the majority were found to be at fault for not following the rules of the road and not wearing their helmets.
Lt. Forbes articulated that they’re trying to find ways to get the kids to pay attention to how they ride. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is partnering with the City of Eastvale and the Department of Public Health to educate the community on safe routes to school. Educational events will include bike rodeos and helmet and bike giveaways. Police Explorers will be used as facilitators and teachers.
The new City of Eastvale Code Enforcement Officer, Avis Hatcher was introduced by City Manager Michele Nissen. Officer Hatcher is certified with the California Association of Code Enforcement Officers and has over 20 years of experience in the field working for large cities such as Beverly Hills. Officer Hatcher’s duties include implementing programs such as rental inspection programs, housing development and CDBG Funding.
Between September 1 and December 31, Code Enforcement conducted 553 inspections, removed 2,100 illegal signs and 147 shopping carts. Within the past several days, the team has notified residents that “Christmas Display Lights” need to come down.
The Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) informed residents about fun activities/events that are coming up. Movies in the park will be hosted once a month at Orchard Park. Spring registration for community classes will open on March 21, there will be an annual blood drive on March 28, and there will be a community campout at Harada Park, on April 8-9, which will include breakfast, lunch and dinner. “Picnic in the Park” will be one of the biggest events hosted by the JCSD, and will occur June 24 -26 at Harada Park. For additional information on upcoming events, visit www.parks.jcsd.us.
The Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD) reported that Clara Barton Elementary School is going to begin a traditional school schedule. The traditional academic calendar will replace the current year-round system effective July 1, 2016. CNUSD Board Member, Bill Newberry, discussed the STEM Magnet School that will place two additional buildings on the Eleanor Roosevelt campus. Newberry mentioned that the plans are completed and the opening is scheduled for the 2018-2019 school year. The first building will be placed facing Citrus Street and the second will be built on the softball field. The STEM school will focus on Science, Technology, Engineering and Math.
Animal Control Officer Mark Visyak gave an update on animal control in the area in 2015. Between January 1 and December 31, 2015, animal control made a total of 3,631 calls within the city. Calls were made in response to 61 aggressive dogs, 99 animal welfare cases and 53 animal bites. A total of 246 dead animals were picked up and 85 citations were issued throughout the year.
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