Seasons Change

Tim Eaton

Tim Eaton

By Pastor Tim Eaton

If you live in Southern California, the weather may not have cooled and palm trees rarely loose their leaves, but there is still a change in the air.

It’s a season of stress:  back to school, sports, dance, scouts, and clubs – they all compete for precious little time as fall gets going.  I know our house has a frightful schedule.  We carefully plot out the calendar, and who is taking whom where and when.  We try to find the ever-elusive balance so we don’t lose our minds.

Recently, though, I was introduced to a revolutionary idea: Seasons – “For everything there is a season, and a time for every purpose under heaven,” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

The trouble with “balance” is that it seems to suggest that the scheduling fiasco and the frantic juggling will never end.  Thus, we have to shoehorn the balance of time into our schedule as well.  But seasons realize this frenzy won’t last forever.

Seasons give us something to look forward to and motivation to work hard for a specific time.  In his book, “Do-Over,” Jon Acuff advocates “30 Days of Hustle.”  Think about that; you could potentially withstand anything for 30 days.  And, you could keep up your intensity, too.

Now I realize that the soccer season is more than 30 days.  So is a semester.  So is your project at work.  But the rest of the country fits four seasons in a year – so maybe your seasons shouldn’t go past three months either.  You need a break; something to look forward to…real rest.

So, if you are in a frenzied season, take heart.  Get out your calendar and put a finish line where the frenzy ends.  Push hard to get there.  And when you arrive, truly enjoy your hard earned rest.  Yes, there are things that won’t get done until then, but then you can finally give them the time they deserve.

If you need a little rest along the way – a taste of the light at the end of the tunnel – join us on Sundays.  And our Women’s Ministry will be doing a quick Bible Study, “Preparing Your Heart for the Holidays,” on Wednesday nights beginning Oct. 28 (its only four weeks long!).

Edgewater Lutheran Church meets Sundays at 10 a.m., worshiping at Harada Elementary, 12884 Oakdale Street, Eastvale, CA, 92880;http://www.EdgewaterLutheran.org.

Diamond Bar: Teaching Kindness

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Chaparral Middle School teacher, Sherry Robertson, with students Noah Macalino and Ashley Jong, completed 40 random acts of kindness.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Chaparral Middle School teacher, Sherry Robertson, with students Noah Macalino and Ashley Jong, completed 40 random acts of kindness.

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – When Chaparral Middle School teacher Sherry Robertson turned 40 this year, she didn’t want gifts or a party. Instead, she decided to complete 40 random acts of kindness to mark the day.

“I wanted to do something original and when I mentioned it to my students they thought it was a great idea and wanted to join in.”

The educator made a spreadsheet to share her ideas with the 6th Graders. Her goal was for volunteers to complete acts individually and then meet at a local shopping mall for the remaining gifts of kindness.

Three students joined the compassion day in honor of Robertson’s 40th birthday on Aug. 8.

7th Grader Ashley Jong, 12, baked chocolate chip cookies and delivered to staff members at the Diamond Bar Library and Kaiser Emergency Room.

“I’ve watched my mom bake cookies, but this was my first time. They were good!” she recalled.

Classmate Noah Macalino, 12, chose to open doors for strangers.

“I really like helping people and it’s fun to do!“ he said.

Student Ethan Yee was on vacation with his family in Las Vegas and also completed two acts of kindness.  He presented a surprise gift card to a hard-working waitress and made a charity donation.

Jong also left a shovel and pail and bottles of bubbles at a local park with a note that read, “Please enjoy this random act of kindness and pass it on!”

The do-gooders took photos of their kindness acts to document the day.

“Every act included a note with the social media hashtag, “RAKbirthday2015, so people could check out the pictures,” Robertson said.

In total, completing 40 Random Acts of Kindness birthday took over eight hours. Robertson and her family covered the community with kindness.  She had the help of her husband, Mario, and son Riley, a Quail Summit kindergartner.

“It has always been a priority for me to help my son grow up in an environment where he learns helping others is the norm,” Robertson said.

They handed out crayons and coloring books to children in a hospital emergency waiting room.  The family brought thank you photos to a caring fire chief, and left laundry soap, fabric softener and quarters at a local Laundromat.

“Enough for a few loads,” she said.

At Toys R Us, the Robertson’s put quarters in all the toy vending machines at the front of the store.

“I wanted to wait to see all the kids come!” the bubbly teacher said.

The educator purposely asked her students to choose acts that were low in cost or free.

One approved random act was sending a thank you letter.

“The note had to be handwritten – no emails or text messages,” Robertson said. “It takes effort and it’s the effort that makes people feel special.”

One of her favorite acts was leaving sticky notes with affirmations in women’s dressing rooms at Kohl’s.

“As I was leaving I heard one lady say, ‘Yes, I do look fabulous today!’ when she saw the note.”

“The cool thing is if you get to see or hear someone receive it,” she commented.

In the afternoon, the group met up at the Shoppes in Chino Hills.

“We taped little bags of quarters to parking meters,” Jung proudly reported.

The trio randomly passed out gift cards to customers in Barnes and Noble bookstore. They even hid a few inside books.

Recipients were surprised at the caring gifts throughout the day.

“At first they thought we were joking,” Jong recalled.

“Some were suspicious, but most were appreciative and excited when we explained it.” Robertson shared.

“I had to tell one lady that there were no strings attached. These are my students and it’s my birthday. I just wanted to include them on what it feels like to do nice things for other people,” she added.

Robertson is happy that she offered a lesson in kindness to mark her milestone birthday.

“I’ll always remember that these kids went out of their comfort zone to help spread kindness. I’m so proud of them.”

“It was an awesome day!” Macalino said.

Chino Valley Fire Launches Red Flag Community Alert Program

Courtesy of the Chino Valley Fire District

Chino – The Chino Valley Fire District is launching a Red Flag Community Alert Program. The Red Flag Program is designed to promote awareness of critical wildfire weather conditions and community preparedness. During red flag warning conditions, all Fire District facilities will fly a red flag until the warning has expired. Information on red flag warnings will be disseminated via Public Service Announcements and through all Fire District social media platforms.

Critical weather conditions that would trigger a red flag warning include severe heat, low relative humidity, high winds, and low fuel moistures (dry vegetation).

During a red flag warning, residents are urged to use extreme caution when operating spark or flame producing equipment in grass or brush areas. Residents of the Sleepy Hollow community in Carbon Canyon will be asked to restrict street parking to provide necessary clearance for firefighting vehicles.

The Fire District encourages the community to be prepared by knowing about the wildfire action plan, Ready! Set! Go! The plan offers tips to residents on creating defensible space around their homes, making their homes fire safe, and having a good evacuation plan.

For more information on the Ready! Set! Go wildfire action plan, visit http://www.chinovalleyfire.org and click on Emergency Preparedness under the Community Relations tab.

Get Ready to ShakeOut, Eastvale!

Join the largest Earthquake Drill ever on Oct. 15 at 10:15 a.m.

 

Staff Reports

Eastvale – The “Big One” is inevitable. The good news is that everyone can prepare to survive and recover from an earthquake.

On Oct. 15, at 10:15 a.m., millions of people across the country – including those at Eastvale City Hall and local schools – will get started on practicing how to “Drop, Cover and Hold On” in the largest earthquake simulation drill during the annual Great ShakeOut.

This means that wherever you are at that moment – at home, at work, at school, anywhere, Drop, Cover, and Hold On as if there were a major earthquake occurring right then and there…and stay in that position for at least 60 seconds.

Anyone in California can participate, from a single individual or a family at home to a major company at the office. Talk to your coworkers, neighbors and friends about the ShakeOut and encourage their participation.  Make a communication plan with an out-of-state contact, so everyone can check in.

Businesses, organizations, schools, and government agencies can register for free at http://www.shakeout.org/california/register, and be counted in the ShakeOut Drill.

The main goal of the ShakeOut is to get Californians prepared for a major earthquake, so use this as an opportunity to practice how to be safer during a catastrophic event.  The ShakeOut has also been organized to encourage you, your community, your school, or your organization to review and update emergency preparedness plans and supplies, and to secure your space in order to prevent damage and injuries.

Visit http://www.shakeout.org to learn where ShakeOut drills are being held.  More than 24 million people worldwide are expected to participate this year.  To date, 1,315,741 people in Southern California have registered to participate.

Great ShakeOut earthquake drills began in Southern California in 2008, and have rapidly grown to be the world’s largest preparedness activity. The Southern California Earthquake Center (SCEC) at the

University of Southern California coordinates and assists all regions and manages the ww.ShakeOut.org website with support from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), National Science Foundation (NSF), U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), and other sponsors. Learn more and register at

www.ShakeOut.org.

 

Walnut: Citizens Oppose Mt. SAC Solar Farm

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza

Photo By: Raymond Mendoza

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Residents once again spoke during the public comment section of the latest Walnut City Council meeting to disagree with Mount San Antonio College; however, this time complaints were made not against the ongoing concerns about a proposed parking structure.

This time, residents were opposed to the location of a planned “solar farm” project that would have the college integrate a 2.2 megawatt, ground-mounted solar photovoltaic system, that could save the campus nearly half a million dollars in annual energy fees.

The location in contention is the Mt. SAC-owned property at the corner of Grand Avenue and Temple Avenue/Amar Road – which is commonly known as the “Christmas tree” lot – where Christmas trees, strawberries, and pumpkins are sold at different times of the year.

Walnut resident, Patrick Johnson, said the proposed solar farm looks bigger than any building that the college currently has, and called the proposed project, “disgusting.” Johnson stated that he knew several lawyers that could help stop the campus’ clean energy project.

Many of the residents that spoke out against the solar farm all shared the same sentiment – that they were “not against solar power,” but that Mt. SAC should not build the solar panels because the rows of panels would ruin the resident’s views of the hills, cause traffic congestion during its construction, and others even questioned if Mt. SAC had the authority to build the solar farm on their parcel of land.

Jill Dolan, Director of Public Affairs for Mt. San Antonio College, said the college administration has the best interest of the students and environment in mind, since the solar farm will help the campus on its way to energy independence.  The campus would save $480,000 in annual energy costs.

According to Dolan, the solar farm project has been a long-time objective for Mt. SAC, and that the campus did an Environmental Impact Report in 2013 which showed that the construction and finished solar farm would have “no new or exacerbated signification environmental impacts associated with the proposed project.”

As of Sept. 9, the college chose Borrego Solar Systems, Inc. to perform the construction of the venture, and is funding the $5 million project through Proposition 39 Clean Energy Funds, California Solar Incentive Funds, and California Energy Commission loans. Dolan said the college is planning to start construction in late spring/early summer of 2016.

“Mt. SAC is deeply committed to pursuing opportunities through which we can be thoughtful stewards of both the environment and taxpayers’ funds,” Dolan said. “Mt. SAC is proud to be a leader in energy efficiency and water conservation efforts, and we have been recognized at both the local and state level for our cost-savings accomplishments. This solar project would save the college nearly half a million dollars a year and move Mt. SAC even closer to energy independence.”

Due to the outcry of residents, however, the City Council members agreed to discuss the solar farm project during its Oct. 14 meeting.

Inland Empire: Great Harvest – Giving Back

By K.P. Sander

 

Eastvale – Being a part of the community to promote healthy living is a passion for the folks at Great Harvest Bread Company.  They get up in the wee hours each morning to head to the shop, and start the process of making delicious, whole grain breads and tantalizing treats to help you start your day off right.

“We are here to offer the freshest, best tasting options for the residents of Eastvale,” says Great Harvest owner, Meredith Sumenek.

Great Harvest mills their grains daily in the bakery to create high protein, whole grain flour of the highest nutritional value – and their delicious breads stay fresh for seven to ten days, with no preservatives.  With high quality ingredients and a variety of fresh choices every day, you can feel good about serving your family delicious, wholesome breads.

And the quality doesn’t stop with fresh breads and treats.  Sumenek believes in giving back to the community that she lives and works in.  Great Harvest takes pride in supporting local high school athletics, PTA, as well as the Lions and Rotary clubs, and many other groups.  She also shops for many of the bakery’s ingredients locally, which supports nearby farms and businesses in and around Eastvale. Schools can even schedule bakery tours to help educate children on how healthy bread is made.   

If you haven’t stopped by to try one of their sandwiches yet, you are missing out on a great opportunity to grab a meal that’s quick, but happily lacking the poor health consequences of fast food. Their breads are moist and delicious, without the use of chemicals or dough conditioners.  They even offer gluten-free bread on Tuesdays and Fridays.  Great Harvest has a variety of interesting sandwich choices, all lovingly put together with quality ingredients and great customer service.

“I am so proud of our employees.  They are ethical and bend over backward to make everything consistently great for our customers,” says Sumenek.

As the weather cools down, Great Harvest will be adding delicious, healthy soups to the menu, and, of course, the holidays bring special treats for their customers. 

You can pre-order frighteningly good bread spiders and witches fingers for Halloween; and come Christmastime, bread shaped like teddy bears will be available to make your holiday meals a little tastier.

In addition, Great Harvest will soon be offering more outdoor seating, making the bakery an even friendlier place to stop and dine in.

So, don’t be a stranger.  Drop by local favorite Great Harvest Bread Company, and pick up some hot, fresh handcrafted bread, or enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner with the folks that love being a part of the Eastvale Community.

Great Harvest Bread Co. is located at 14244 Schleisman Road, Suite 130, in the city of Eastvale.  They can be reached at (951) 427-5737, or visit www.GHEastvale.com.  And follow them on Facebook at /EastvaleGreatHarvest.  Their hours are Mon. through Fri. 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sat. 7 a.m. to 5 p.m.; and Sun. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Diamond Bar Princess Party

Photo courtesy: City of Diamond Bar

Photo courtesy: City of Diamond Bar

Diamond Bar – On Sat., Sept. 19, Miss Diamond Bar – Queen Alexandra Ornelas – and her court of princesses (Rebecca Wang, Megan Quon, Katherine Hermosillo and Cynthia Preciado) hosted a very special Princess Tea Party at the Diamond Bar Library.

The Court enjoyed meeting, dancing, singing and story time with all the little princesses, who were dressed in their very best princess attire.

Linda Headlee, Director at the Miss Diamond Bar Scholarship Pageant, Inc. – who is the event sponsor – said over 90 little princesses attended the annual Tea Party, and as you can see in the photo, they had a very delightful experience.

Eastvale Community News Complete Edition October 2015

2015-10-EastvaleNews-COVERThe Eastvale Community News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco, Corona, and Chino. Click the following link to access the complete issue in pdf format: 2015-10-EastvaleNews-WEB

Declining Enrollment at Chino Valley Public Schools

Budget issues loom as district closes books on 2014/2015 school year

 

Courtesy of Chino Valley School District

Chino – Declining enrollment, the possibility of charter schools moving into the area, increased contributions to employee benefits and pensions, and the probability that special taxes will expire within three years could adversely affect Chino Valley Unified School District’s long range budget, Assistant Superintendent of Business Services Sandra Chen told the Board of Education at its Sept. 17 meeting.

Chen made her comments during a presentation on closing the financial books for the 2014/2015 school year, prior to an annual audit.

The loss of more students than expected is particularly troublesome, Chen said. The district has experienced a steady decrease in student enrollment by about 500 students annually for several years. The district is down 745 students from the same time last year, Chen reported at the Sept. 17 board meeting. Current enrollment is coming in at approximately 100 students lower than what was projected at budget development, Chen said. “We will have to make adjustments to revenue at the First Interim Report (in December),” she said.

The district receives money from the state, based on student enrollment.

Declining enrollment can also be an open invitation to charter schools, Chen said. The district’s enrollment decreased from about 32,000 in 2009 to below 31,000 in 2010 when Oxford Preparatory Academy public charter school opened its doors that fall.

The district, along with others in the state, is responsible for contributing more money to employee pension programs. “We will need to continue to address that in our multi-year budgets,” Chen said.

Proposition 30, which provided additional funding to education beginning in 2012, is set to end in the next three years. The 0.25% sales tax portion of the proposition ends in 2016, and the personal income tax in 2018. An initiative, backed by the California Teachers Association, is underway to extend the proposition to 2030, Chen said.

The district is also watching other developments that could affect its finances, including AB 1522 which provides up to three days paid sick leave a year to employees, including those that are temporary and part-time; compliance penalties regarding the Affordable Health Care Act; and a cap on how much districts can keep as reserve for emergencies.

The district’s 2014/2015 expenses increased $14.3 million when compared to the 2007/2008 school year, but revenue has only increased by $2.1 million, or 1% when compared to the same period, Chen said. The District’s expenditures are outpacing the incoming revenues. Chen expects the district will continue its deficit spending trend if no action is taken to adjust its expenditures.

Chen said it is very costly to run a district as large as Chino Valley Unified because employee costs account for $9 out of every $10 in unrestricted dollars that the district spends. Costs for employee salaries and benefits average about $900,000 a day, and about $19 million a month.

The district does expect to get some one-time funding from Governor Jerry Brown this school year, amounting to about $600 per student based on 2014/2015 attendance. The funding is part of the Governor’s plan to pay back school districts what they were owed by the state for previous mandate

claims. The district has budgeted this funding for use in its continuous effort to implement Common Core state standards.

The district began the 2014/2015 school year with a $50.7 million balance. It had $209.8 million in revenue, but nearly $217.9 million in expenditures, an $8 million deficit. It ended the year with a $42.7 million balance. Of that, approximately $23.1 million is reserved for revolving cash, equity distribution to employees, economic uncertainties, and other costs, leaving an unappropriated amount of $19,560,793.

The district began the 2015/2016 fiscal year on July 1 with $42.7 million. Chen expects the district to take in $249.2 million in revenues, and spend $241.2 million. Included in the $249 million revenue is the one-time funds provided by the Governor for mandate claims settlements and implementation of Common Core state standards.

Following an independent audit this fall, the district will file its First Interim financial report with San Bernardino County Superintendent of Schools in December.

Eastvale’s 5th Birthday Party Takes The Cake

Photo Courtesy: Jeannette Garcia

Photo Courtesy: Jeannette Garcia

Staff Reports

Eastvale – On Sat. Oct. 3, hundreds of party goers participated in the City’s 5th Birthday Celebration. “Awesome,” “Vibrant,” and “Family Fun,” were the common responses voiced by spectators throughout the festivities.

“I had the privilege of representing Eastvale before you were a city,” Riverside County Supervisor John Tavaglione said during the event’s opening ceremony. “It’s been a delight to drive through over the years, seeing homes, schools and churches emerging, and seeing you become a thriving community.”

The party kicked off in the early morning with the annual Eastvale 5K/10K and Fun Run along Scholar Way. Hundreds of runners – from mommy walking groups to track-and-field stars – hit the pavement to show off their community pride.

Street jugglers, mimes, stilt walkers and magicians strolled through the crowds bringing plenty of smiles. Rows of vendors and local organizations lined the Street Fair, giving out community information, selling goods and hosting numerous kids’ activities.

At noon, residents grabbed a curbside seat as the Eleanor Roosevelt High School band led the parade –  with festive floats (designed by local students and dignitaries), dance troops, Boy and Girl Scout troops, and many other organizations – down Scholar Way.

The Grand Finale – complete with a laser light show – left the crowd cheering, as they wished Eastvale a Happy Birthday.

Photo Courtesy: Jeannette Garcia

Photo Courtesy: Jeannette Garcia

Straight Talk With Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

 

A Letter From Nora:

Q:  My older sister accompanied me on a business trip to Las Vegas last year.  I invited her as my guest because she doesn’t get out much and I wanted to see her have a little fun.  On the first night she lost most of her money and consumed too much alcohol to the point of embarrassing me in front of my co-workers.  I never said anything about how uncomfortable I was.  Our annual trip is coming up again and she just assumes that I’m taking her again, but I don’t want a repeat of last year.  I don’t know how to tell her that I’d rather take someone else.  She is very sensitive and I don’t want to hurt her feelings. Thank you.

A:  Unfortunately, your sister is a social rookie.  Maybe she is just a lovable light weight who gets goofy when she drinks too much once in a while, or maybe she is a true social liability.  Be honest with her and explain that based on last year’s performance, she isn’t a suitable fit as your companion on a business outing, but you’ll keep her on the guest list for your next house party. Enjoy!

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 atstraighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

September & October 2015 SGV News

2015-09AND10-SGVNewsSGV News covers Diamond Bar, Walnut, La Puente, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of the San Gabriel Valley; portions of the western Inland Empire; and northern Orange County. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: Sept. & Oct. 2015 SGV Newspaper

Chino Valley School District Considers Bond

Investing in Our Schools and Community

 

Staff Reports

Chino– Chino Valley School District is seeking the public’s support and feedback to weigh in on a possible bond measure to fund capital improvement projects in 2016.

What is a school bond? What does this mean for you?

School bonds are a way for school districts to borrow money. Bonds are the only means through which districts can build schools. The bond, once approved by voters, may be supplemented by state matching dollars to help the district fund facilities needed. Bonds are paid off through property taxes, so when I vote for a bond, I’m voting for higher taxes on my property.

According to the Chino Valley district website, most of Chino’s local schools were built decades ago – with some built in the 1950s – and need basic health and safety improvements.

“As the District plans for the future, the participation of our school communities couldn’t be more important,” Superintendent Wayne M. Joseph said. “Understanding the priorities of each school community is essential in developing a shared vision for the future.”

The Chino Valley school district has already completed two rounds of public discussions.

The first round of Facilities Master Plan update meetings took place at 35 school sites over the summer and ushers in the community engagement and information gathering process to better understand local school needs and the community’s priorities for them.

The discussion centered on the following four categories:  Renovating existing buildings; completing work at schools to enhance or improve existing conditions; building something new at a school that currently does not exist; and incorporating new technology into classrooms and schools.

Some of the topics that participants raised were repairing schools that were 25-years-old or more under the state’s school modernization program, upgrading classrooms and equipment for career education programs, upgrading technology, adding security features to keep students and staff safe on our campuses, replacing portable buildings with permanent classrooms, and adding equipment that best suits the needs of 21st century classrooms.

“Whether it is investing in new technology, upgrading school-career education programs, improving classrooms, or making basic health and safety improvements at our schools, I would like to hear from our families and community members to help shape the future of our schools,” Joseph said.

An independent community survey of 400 voters in February shows residents feel Chino Valley schools provide a quality education but perceive schools to have a significant need for additional funding. The survey provides insight into community opinions and educational priorities for our schools.

More than two-thirds of respondents believe Chino Valley schools provide high-quality education to local students.

The second round of Facilities Master Plan update meetings with school staff and parents concluded in September. According to district officials, the survey was posted on the district website and handed out at back-to-school nights in September.

Further outreach will continue throughout the school year. During the summer, Superintendent Joseph met with business organizations, service clubs, senior citizen organizations, and a wide range of other community groups to exchange ideas.

“The community conversations will continue over the course of the year and will help to inform the Board of Education’s decision regarding a potential educational bond measure in November 2016,” Superintendent Joseph said. “We are focused on listening and gathering information before considering next steps.”

If a bond measure is place on the November 2016 ballot, the school board will need to make a decision by August 2016.

Eastvale Council Report

By Emily Aguilar

 

Eastvale – From the groundwater pipeline expansion project to ongoing school traffic concerns, the

Eastvale City Council rolled up their sleeves and took action on some of the City’s toughest issues during the September meetings.

On Sept. 9, the Public Safety Commission provided an update on traffic problems during school hours. They will be working together with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department to educate the public on traffic safety and hopefully provide some solutions to the issues.

New City Planner, Malinda Lim, was introduced and welcomed as one of the newest members of the City staff.  Council also officially recognized the week of Sept. 17 to 23 as “Constitutional Week,” in commemoration of the 228th anniversary of the drafting of the United States Constitution.

During Public Comments, a resident spoke about the faulty mosquito pesticide application, and asked for a better notification protocol to warn the City of any future pesticide applications.

During Public Hearings, the Council motioned to rename Cleveland Avenue to Scholar Way between 58th St. and Bellegrave Ave. They also motioned to informally name Fire Station No. 31, forthcoming on Chandler St. and Selby Ave. – as the “Chandler Station.”  Council also discussed the possibility of hosting a 5th Annual State of the City address in 2016.

One item that was not motioned was to approve the future Schleisman Road and I-15 Interchange on the Master Plan.  The presenter suggested amending the Master Plan, which would require $150,000 over a ten year span.  The Council agreed that there were other priorities, and chose not to take action at this time.

The Council also reviewed the updated ALUC Open Space Requirement for the Sendero residential development, which was rejected in June because of spacing infringements. The new plan, which reduced the number of units from 323 to 312, made improvements to the original map, and was both criticized and praised by Council.

The City Manager report announced that the Library Subcommittee would hold its first meeting on Sept. 14.

To conclude the meeting, the City announced it would be holding a 9/11 Flag Ceremony at Cal Fire 27.

The Sept. 23 Council meeting opened to the Community Foundation announcing the City’s 5th Birthday celebration would be held on Oct. 3.

Next, the Chino Basin Desalter Expansion Project – which will provide 10 million gallons of drinking water to Eastvale and surrounding cities – was highlighted. Chino Basin Desalter Authority General Manager, Curtis Paxton, presented construction updates on the upcoming project – which will require the installation of several groundwater pipelines that will extend from Bellegrave Ave. to Harrison Ave. and 65th Street. While the addition of water will not excuse the City from regulating water use, it will increase the water supply. Paxton emphasized that “safety is our concern,” saying traffic would be regulated on Bellegrave Ave. when construction begins.

Council then approved the second ordinance reading of the Goodman Commerce Center Specific Plan.

All items on the Consent Calendar were approved.  The staff also announced the annual Food Truck Festival at Ramirez Intermediate on Sept. 25, and International Walk To School Day, which will be held on Wed., Oct. 7.

Council then reviewed a proposal for JCSD’s Capacity Charge, a developer impact fee planned to collect more than $67,000 from new Eastvale citizens to provide water for the growing City.  After listening to this and other projects that would increase fees, Council stated that there is a “lack of outreach” that would affect economic principles.

Moving on, Council approved the Freeway Agreement with the State Department of Transportation to allow the City and/or state to maintain and regulate the construction of roads and right of way traffic.

City Staff reported that Gov. Brown signed AB-107 – with Mayor Bootsma calling the bill a “joke.”  This bill was meant to make a county whole, but there isn’t any money coming into the City at this time.  Two Council members will have to attend a meeting about the bill on Sept. 28.

Before the conclusion of the meeting, the League of Cities Golf Tournament was announced, to be held on Oct. 12.  Also, the outbreak of West Nile Virus cases is currently the worst Riverside County has seen in years.  As a result, the City will take action to help keep its citizens safe.

Visit My Booth At The Walnut Family Festival

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

By Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T.

Can you believe fall is here and we are getting ready for Halloween?

One of my favorite things about this time of year is the Walnut Family Festival.  This year, I will not only have a booth, but Midnight the Therapy Dog and I will be in the parade.

The date of the parade and festival is Sat., Oct. 10.  The festival is located at Suzanne Park, and there are all kinds of wonderful things to do, buy, and eat – and it’s a great opportunity to just see some old friends.

The parade runs from 10 a.m. until noon, and the festival continues on until 6 p.m.

I will have flyers there regarding my free support groups and copies of my self-help book entitled, “Live, Heal and Grow – A common sense guide to life,” and my latest book, “Midnight the Therapy Dog” for sale.  I will be happy to sign each book purchased.

I always run into people that I haven’t seen for years.  It’s a great opportunity to come on by and just chat about what’s going on in your life and get some support.  If you prefer the support of a furry friend, Midnight, the certified therapy dog, will be at the booth part of the day as well.

The festival is lots of fun and has tons of free information for you and your family.  Over the years, many of you have e-mailed me or called and left me messages about my column.  I hope you’ll stop by my booth and introduce yourselves.  I’m always amazed about how many nice people I meet at this event.  It makes me feel proud to be part of such a wonderful community.  I love seeing all the families and all the dogs that come out to this event.  I hope you’ll come out and join the celebration!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, including a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger. For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727, or via email at nancyjstoops@verizon.net.  Nancy’s books, “Midnight the Therapy Dog,” and “Live, Heal and Grow,” are available at Amazon.com.

Chino Valley Fire Department Awarded Transparency Certificate of Excellence

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Courtesy of the Chino Valley Fire District

 

Chino Valley – The Chino Valley Fire District was awarded the District Transparency Certificate of Excellence by the Special District Leadership Foundation in recognition of good governance practices during its annual California Special Districts Association Conference. It is the second time the Fire District received this award.

The Fire District demonstrated compliance in eight essential governance transparency requirements, including conducting ethics training for all board members, properly conducting open and public meetings, and filing financial transactions and compensation reports to the State Controller in a timely manner.

“The Fire Board and District staff is to be commended for their commitment to being fully transparent, open and accessible to the public and all our stakeholders,” said Chino Valley Fire Chief Tim Shackelford.

The Fire District also fulfilled 15 website requirements, including providing readily available information to the public, such as board agendas, past minutes, current district budget, and the most recent financial audit.

Finally, the Fire District demonstrated outreach efforts to constituents that engage them in our governance through newsletters and other materials.

The Special District Leadership Foundation is a non-profit organization that was formed to promote good governance and best practices among California’s special districts through certification, accreditation and other recognition programs.

The Whole Enchilada Brings a Fiesta to Weekend Mornings

NOW OPEN FOR BREAKFAST

The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114 S. Diamond Bar Blvd. (at Grand Ave.) in Diamond Bar.

The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114
S. Diamond Bar Blvd. (at Grand Ave.) in
Diamond Bar.

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Add a little spice to your morning routine and hurry over to The Whole Enchilada for a flavorful breakfast fiesta! The Whole Enchilada is now open early on Saturday and Sunday at 7:30 a.m. The early bird catches the worm when you visit The Whole Enchilada and grab their Early Bird Special breakfast plate for just $5.99.

Bring the entire family to The Whole Enchilada, where you can get a taste of authenticity and enjoy a wonderful experience.

From savory huevos rancheros and chorizo to hearty egg burritos and a breakfast skillet, The Whole Enchilada offers two mouth-watering menus featuring an array classic American dishes and traditional Mexican cuisine. Visit The Whole Enchilada for a rich, delicious, invigorating Mexican breakfast perfect for any occasion.

They guarantee you will enjoy your dining experience!

“All our food is made fresh daily,” says Lil Palmer of The Whole Enchilada.

The restaurant has been in business for over 30 years, and offers fresh, authentic Mexican recipes their resident chef brought from their homeland.  there is a reason it is a favorite with locals.  The Whole Enchilada offers a variety of delicious Mexican dishes ranging from enchiladas and burritos to carne asada and fajitas – and don’t forget their Mexican Kaluha Flan or Rio Grande Mud Pie after your meal!

The Whole Enchilada can help cater any event you have planned featuring their delicious handmade tamales, which are available year round. This traditional holiday dish is sold by the dozen and is available in pork, beef, chicken, green chili and cheese.  Other menu items, such as the taquito or street taco platters, are available for catering as well.

Whether it’s an anniversary, a business meeting or catered Grand Opening, a fundraiser or birthday party, or even just a wonderful excuse not to cook, The Whole Enchilada will dazzle you with their excellent customer service and delicious food.  They look forward to helping you celebrate the special moments in your life.

The celebration doesn’t stop with just one visit.  The Whole Enchilada has gift cards available for purchase in person or online. And be sure to ask about the Combo Punch Card, Enchilada Bucks, and Kids Club.

Whether you live near or far, come be a local at The Whole Enchilada.  Your taste buds will thank you!  The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., (at Grand Avenue, in Diamond Bar). They are open Mon. – Thurs., 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fri., 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sat., 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sun., 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. You can reach them at (909) 861-5340, and visit their website at www.wholeenchilada.com.See their ad on the back page of this publication.

 

Chino Hills: Wahfles Gourmet Desserts, Sandwiches, and Coffee

Chino Valley Chamber Welcomes Newest Member

 

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Did someone say, “Waffles and coffee?” Yes, please! Chino Hills has been a little spoiled lately with the enticing Wahfles Gourmet Desserts, Sandwiches, and Coffee eatery, located at 5751 Pine Ave.
Wahfles Chino Hills has been serving up gourmet waffle sandwiches and specialty coffees for two years now but recently came under new ownership by Chino Hills residents, Anthony, Lorraine and son Jacob Abel. Wahfles Chino Hills serves a unique array of specialty and classic waffle desserts and sandwiches, a full espresso bar, shaken teas, special drinks, ice blended drinks and affogatos. Patrons can also create their own waffles and coffee drinks with very willing and able Wahfle Creators and experienced baristas.
So, whether you are catching up with friends, grabbing a quick bite for lunch or taking the family out for Sunday morning breakfast, Wahfles Chino Hills is a cozy, family-friendly spot ready to serve up some savory goodness any time of day.
Wahfles Chino Hills is open Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fridays, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Abel family is no stranger to the Chino Valley area. They have called Chino Hills their home for 18 years.  Lorraine currently teaches at the Alternative Education Center in the Chino Unified School District for independent study for high school students since 2011, though she has taught in the elementary division since 2003.  Anthony runs the restaurant full time alongside his son Jacob, 18, when he is not busy with college life.
The Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce will officially welcome their newest members, Wahfles Gourmet Desserts, Sandwiches, and Coffee with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 3 p.m. Leave the toaster at home and join Chamber members, city officials, local elected officials and community members in welcoming the Abel family to the Chino Valley business community.

“Reflectors”

Dennis Morales X-ORIGBy Pastor Dennis Morales

 

“Let your light so shine…” – Matthew 5:16

The Moon at night can offer beautiful displays of light, but its source of light comes directly from the Sun.  Realistically, if there was no Sun, it would be nothing but a dirty rock.  In the Sermon on the Mount Jesus shares the very well known “Be”-atitudes.” What Jesus teaches, certainly isn’t about “world peace,” it’s directed toward our character. The religious leaders in Jesus’ day were so concerned with the minute details of conduct, that they missed the major issue of character. Character goes much deeper than the surface. The way we live our lives flows from our character.  A great preacher once said “Character is who you are when no one is looking.” How is your behavior when no one is around?  If your character is weak, then you will fall to destructive behavior.  If your character is strong, then you will be able to withstand difficult pressures and temptation. What is good character?  The Bible identifies godly character as one that reflects love, joy, peace, kindness, patience, gentleness, goodness, and self control (Galatians 5:22,23).  Do we perfectly reflect this at all times?  Not realistically, but the influences in your life will be reflected by you.  The closer you draw to Jesus, the more His life will be reflected in you.   Our children need good influence in their lives. We are called to influence character in our children’s lives as parents and teachers. Draw close to the source and let your light shine!

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 www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Be Thankful

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Recently, I passed the baton of the leadership of our church to a younger pastor on our staff.  It was a morning filled with excitement and emotion as I stepped down from serving as the senior pastor and Pastor Tim Park accepted this new assignment.

Later that day, over 400 people gathered at the Diamond Bar Community Center to celebrate the 27 years that my wife and I have served at our church.  It was both humbling and amazing to see pictures and hear stories highlighting some of the things that happened during those many years.

A team at our church put together a wonderful evening.  The food was delicious and the decorations were gorgeous.  The room looked amazing! The program was filled with humor and memories.  It was an evening to remember.

One of the things I noticed was that I looked a lot younger 27 years ago when our family moved to Diamond Bar in 1988.  My hair was darker and there was a lot more of it!  Our kids were a lot younger back then, too.

A number of people shared stories about my years at the church.  Our own adult children shared some humorous accounts about their dad.  The Mayor of Diamond Bar presented me with a plaque recognizing our service to the community.

The pictures and videos brought back memories of building programs and special events that we will always remember.  In addition, many people wrote cards and notes thanking my wife and me for our ministry in their lives.

Through all of this, I was reminded that each person at that celebration had been touched in some way by my wife and me.  Their cards and words reminded us that the greatest impact we had at our church was not the new buildings and the special programs, but the times that we helped families and individuals at critical times in their lives.

God gave us the privilege to be part of their lives over the years.  We celebrated the births of their children and the weddings in their families.  We wept with others at the death of their loved ones and through the heartbreak of divorce.  It was both humbling and gratifying to hear how we were able to help and serve others.

Let me encourage you to look around you this week.  Who are the people that you work with and see every day?  Take time to thank them for the impact they have had in your life.  And, give thanks to God that he is using you to make a difference in their lives, too!

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