Free VBS Returns To Eastvale

By Claire Lewis

Eastvale – Once again, Edgewater Lutheran Church brings Vacation Bible School (VBS) to summertime in Eastvale.  This event – free for children 4  to 12 years of age – not only helps to provide a foundation in faith, but the kids have fun, are completely engaged in the program, and enjoy being with friends, old and new.

The theme this year is, “Everest:  Conquering Challenges With God’s Mighty Power.” The program will take your children on an icy expedition where they will learn to overcome obstacles that will help them with life’s challenges based upon Bible truths.  There are group sessions, learning pods, sciency-fun gizmos, and amazing music!

Edgewater is very passionate about their VBS program, and they look forward to providing it for the community each summer.  Senior Pastor, Tim Eaton, says, “Come and join us for the most fun week of summer for the kids – and the most relaxing week of summer for the parents.  It’s a blessing for everyone!”

VBS will be held Monday through Friday, July 20 to 24, 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. daily; at Ramirez Middle School (6905 Harrison Avenue, Eastvale).  Not only is the program free, but dinner is provided each day.

Registration is now open online at:  http://edgewaterlutheran.org/#/events/vacation-bible-school.

Edgewater worships each Sunday, 10 a.m., at Harada Elementary (12884 Oakdale Street, Eastvale).

CVFD Seeks Nominations For Prestigious Award

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – The Chino Valley Fire District is seeking nominations for the Fred L. Burns Community Service Award.  Nominations will be accepted until midnight of December 31.  Award recipients will be announced in January 2016.

The Fred L. Burns Award was established to recognize an individual who has made a significant contribution to the Chino Valley Fire District in the area of furthering the District’s Mission Statement and/or who has made a significant contribution to the Chino Valley Community in the area of community service in support of Public Safety.

The Fire District’s Mission is to protect the lives and property of the community from the detrimental effects of fires, medical emergencies and other hazardous conditions.

Nominations can be submitted online at www.chinovalleyfire.org by accessing the Community Relations tab, News Flash section, or by clicking on the Fred L. Burns Award page on the hot links section of the Fire District website’s homepage.

Help This US Army Ring Find Home

Photo Courtesy: Rachel Farris Facebook Photos of the U.S. Army ring found in South Dakota

Photo Courtesy: Rachel Farris Facebook
Photos of the U.S. Army ring found in South Dakota

By Claire Lewis

Chino – Chino local, Laurie Utter, has a heart of gold for our Veterans.  While perusing Facebook, she came across a post from the other side of the country, and she reached out to the Weekly News for help.

Rachel Farris, who lives in Saucier, Mississippi, posted the following information on her Facebook page:

“Ok Facebook world, I need some help. My grandpa found a United States Army service ring buried in the dirt at his farm in South Dakota. The name on the ring is Patrick J. Dierick. It’s a very old ring and he would like to find the owner – or at least the family to return it to. Please share this post so we can try to find the rightful owner or family member.”

Utter thought she might be able to help the ring find its way home

Photo Courtesy: Rachel Farris Facebook Photos of the U.S. Army ring found in South Dakota

Photo Courtesy: Rachel Farris Facebook
Photos of the U.S. Army ring found in South Dakota

because somebody knows somebody who knows the owner.

“I just have a big place in my heart for our Vets and military men and women; they do so much for us and don’t seem to get much back,” says Utter.

There is a story on how the ring belonging to Patrick J. Dierick found its way to a farm in South Dakota, and both Utter and Farris are looking for answers.

“I just thought what a nice thing to do by finding him, or even a family member,” Utter continues.

The U.S. Army takes care of its own, and hopefully – as a collective effort – we will be able to return this U.S. Army ring to its home.  If you have any information about Patrick Dierick, or anyone who may know him, please contact the Weekly News via email at editor@anapr.com.

Photo Courtesy: Rachel Farris Facebook Photos of the U.S. Army ring found in South Dakota

Photo Courtesy: Rachel Farris Facebook
Photos of the U.S. Army ring found in South Dakota

OC Man Arraigned For Hit And Run Deaths

Crash killed woman and her 2-year old granddaughter

Photo Courtesy: Irvine PD Alec Scott Abraham, 20, charged with hit-and-run deaths

Photo Courtesy: Irvine PD
Alec Scott Abraham, 20, charged with hit-and-run deaths

Staff Reports

Santa Ana – On Mon., June 15, Alec Scott Abraham, 20, of Costa Mesa, was arraigned for causing a hit-and-run crash that killed a woman and her granddaughter in Irvine. Abraham is charged with two felony counts of gross vehicular manslaughter with gross negligence, one felony count of hit-and-run with permanent injury or death, one felony count of reckless driving with bodily injury, and one misdemeanor count of petty theft by taking and carrying away, and sentencing enhancements for fleeing the scene of a vehicular manslaughter and inflicting great bodily injury.

At approximately 8:50 p.m. on June 10, Abraham was driving a Ford Mustang and traveling westbound on Alton Parkway in Irvine. He is accused of speeding and failing to stop for a red light at the intersection of Alton and Barranca parkways. Abraham reportedly slammed into the driver’s side of a Chevy Cruze being driven by Katherine Hampton, 54, who was traveling southbound on Barranca Parkway through a green light – with her daughter and two grandchildren also in the car. The crash forced the vehicles into a Honda Civic that was stopped at the red light going eastbound on Alton Parkway. The solo driver in the Honda Civic was treated for minor injuries at a local hospital and released.

Shortly after the crash, Abraham allegedly approached a bystander and requested to use their cell phone.  He took the bystander’s phone, fleeing from the scene of the crash on foot.

The Orange County Fire Authority arrived on scene and transported the victims to local hospitals. Hampton died at the scene as a result of her injuries sustained in the crash.

Hampton’s daughter, 28-year-old Jane Doe, was seated in the passenger seat of the Chevy Cruze and was treated for a broken jaw. Jane Doe’s son, 7-year old John Doe, who was seated in the rear passenger seat, was treated for a broken collarbone. Jane Doe’s daughter, 2-year old Kaydence Hampton, who was seated behind the driver’s seat, was in cardiac arrest following the crash. She was revived at the hospital, but had significant brain swelling, and was pronounced dead on June 14.

Abraham was arrested at a Costa Mesa park on June 11 by the Irvine Police Department.  If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 14 years in state prison. He is being held on $1 million bail.

The Importance Of Rest

Pastor Ed Moreno

Pastor Ed Moreno

By Pastor Ed Moreno

In Mark 7:24, 31 we read something very interesting.  These verses tell us: “Jesus left that place and went to the vicinity of Tyre.  He entered a house and did not want anyone to know it…Then Jesus left the vicinity of Tyre and went through Sidon, down to the Sea of Galilee and into the region of Decapolis.”

What Jesus is doing here can be missed if one does not know the historical context and geography of Jesus’ little trip.

Jesus had been healing and ministering to people; the Jewish religious leaders had been causing conflict in an attempt to mess up Jesus’ ministry; and so Jesus is tired.  He needs a break.  He needs some rest.  And so Jesus takes a vacation.

That’s right!  Jesus took a vacation.  When Jesus goes to the vicinity of Tyre, this is the very first time Jesus leaves Israel.  He goes to where he thinks no one knows him and, apparently, rents a house.

Tyre is a coastal town.  It sits on the Mediterranean.  They have beautiful Sunsets there.

At this juncture Jesus wants to go unnoticed and to keep his identity and presence a secret.   And when he leaves Tyre and makes his way back to Israel, he takes the long scenic route.   That is, Jesus took the 120 mile route rather than the 30 mile route.  And he does no ministering along the way.

The point is this: “Sometimes the most sacred thing you can do is rest.”

Look, to be good for the long haul in ministry or our secular occupation, rest must be scheduled into our weekly, monthly and yearly rhythm.

I just got back from a two-week vacation.  During that time I took no phone calls, and I did not read any texts or emails.  Does that mean I do not care for the people I serve at New Day?  No!  It means that I do care and want to be there for them for the long haul.  And to accomplish that, I must make sure I get rest.  Are you including down time in your life?  Jesus did!

New Day Christian Church meets Sundays at 9:30 and 11 a.m.  They are located at 7155 Hamner Avenue (formerly “A” Street), at Schleisman Road next to the Fire Station.  For more information, call (951) 278-8367, or visit www.newdaycc.net.

Sheriff’s HOPE

Positive Change, Not Spare Change

Image Courtesy: SBSD

Image Courtesy: SBSD

Staff Reports

San Bernardino County – The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department HOPE (Homeless Outreach and Proactive Enforcement) Team is launching the “Positive Change, Not Spare Change” community awareness campaign. The goal of this campaign is to educate the public on those asking for spare change or holding “Homeless” signs seeking help.
Statistics demonstrate that 65% of panhandlers are not homeless.  When you provide money to a panhandler you may be contributing to a drug or alcohol addiction.
Legitimate homeless service providers can channel your donation to real solutions for moving people beyond homelessness.  Signs, posters, flyers, and bumper stickers will be posted throughout the county and are available to anyone who wishes to support this effort.
If you are interested in obtaining promotional materials, please contact HOPE at (909) 387-0623, or toll free at (844) 811-HOPE (4673).  You can also email your request to HOPE@sbcsd.org.

The One That Got Away

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

Anyone who loves cars has a story about the one that got away.  I’m not sure if women feel this way, but most men can tell you a story about a car that they wish they still owned.

My first car was a ’57 Chevy.  I was in high school when some friends of my parents asked if I would like to buy their son’s car.  Their son was graduating from college and the parents were buying him a new car. They were selling the ’57 Chevy.

I had delivered newspapers during my high school years and had saved enough money to buy my first car.  The two-door, ’57 Chevy with a small V-8 engine and chrome wheels was a nice car!  I’m sure I did not realize how special it was or how valuable it would become.

A few years later, as I prepared to enter college at Arizona State, I decided to sell my ’57 Chevy and get a car with better gas mileage.  I would be commuting to college and the V-8 engine with a four barrel carburetor got terrible gas mileage.  So I sold my Chevy and bought a used Volkswagen!

It seemed practical at the time, but pretty dumb today.  Many times I wished I had kept the ’57 Chevy.  I can’t begin to imagine what that car would be worth today.  I always regret letting that one get away.

You may have a similar story.  I have heard many over the years.  But, there are a number of people who have kept those old cars and didn’t let them get away.

They love to show their cars and share their stories with others.  You can come and see a variety of cars and motorcycles at our church on Sat., June 27, from 9 a.m. to noon.

This is our second Car and Cycle Meet.  We will have some older vintage cars and motorcycles and some new ones, too.

If you would be willing to bring your car or motorcycle to this event, please contact our church office – or just show up at 9:00 a.m.  There are no entrance fees.

If you would like to see some nice cars and motorcycles, we look forward to seeing you on Saturday. Admission is free and lunch will be provided.

Our church is located at 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd, across from the new Willow Heights home site near Brea Canyon Road.

I hope you will come and see these cars and motorcycles.  And, I hope you will be ready to share your story about one of your cars that got away!

La Puente Barricad Suspect Death

Staff Reports

La Puente – On Sun., June 14, at approximately 12:25 a.m., Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) Industry Station personnel received a “possible domestic violence – welfare check” call for service.  Additional information led responding Deputies to contact the wife of the suspect at an undisclosed location.  The wife informed Deputies that she had been assaulted by her husband, that he was armed with a rifle, and that he had threatened to kill her and himself.

Deputies quickly formulated a plan and responded to the couple’s residence located in the 900 block of Willow Avenue in La Puente.  At the location, Deputies observed the male suspect walking around the garage area of the residence with a rifle.  As a safety precaution, containment of the residence was established and neighboring residents were immediately evacuated.

Despite several verbal commands from Deputies, the suspect refused to cooperate and surrender peacefully.  He then barricaded himself inside the residence – beginning a 12-hour standoff.

LASD Special Enforcement Bureau (SEB) Special Weapons Team, along with LASD Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) personnel were on scene.  CNT made dozens of attempts over the course of the entire incident to establish communication with the suspect; however the suspect was unresponsive to the communication efforts.  Additionally, SEB introduced gas into the residence and utilized a distraction device in order to gain compliance from the suspect.

After an extensive and constant effort by SEB, Industry Station Deputies and CNT making all attempts to bring about a peaceful resolution, SEB deputies made entry inside the residence and located the suspect with a self-inflicted gunshot wound.  He was pronounced dead at the scene.

The suspect’s rifle was recovered and no Deputies were injured. The suspect’s wife was treated for minor injuries sustained during the assault.

The identity of the deceased suspect will be determined by the Los Angeles County Coroner.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact LASD Industry Station at (626) 330-3322.  If you prefer to provide information anonymously, you may call “Crime Stoppers” by dialing (800) 222-TIPS (8477), or texting the letters TIPLA plus your tip to CRIMES (274637), or by using the website http://lacrimestoppers.org.

Fontana Man Arrested For Abuse

Suspect arrested for continuous sexual abuse of multiple victims spanning more than a decade.

Photo Courtesy: SBSD Suspect Jose Manuel Carrillo

Photo Courtesy: SBSD
Suspect Jose Manuel Carrillo

Staff Reports

Fontana – In April 2015, multiple female victims who were suspected of being sexually abused as minors notified Deputies at the Fontana Sheriff’s Station.  Deputies were advised that the suspect was known to the victims, and immediately began an investigation.

According to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, it was discovered that the victims had been sexually abused on several occasions and at multiple locations – including their family home – over a span of at least ten years.

After an extensive investigation, Detectives identified Jose Manuel Carrillo, 48, as the suspect.  During the course of the investigation, Detectives discovered additional victims who came forward.  An arrest warrant was secured for Carrillo’s arrest while Detectives conducted a surveillance of his residence located in the 14800 block of Merrill Ave. in Fontana.

Carrillo was subsequently taken into custody, interviewed and arrested.  He was booked into the West Valley Detention Center for Continuous Sexual Abuse of a Child, and is being held on a no-bail warrant.

Detectives are concerned they may be additional victims.  Anyone with information about this case is urged to contact the Fontana Sheriff’s Station at (909) 356-6767.  Callers wishing to remain anonymous may contact the We-Tip Hotline at (800) 78-CRIME (27463) or you may leave information on the We-Tip website at http://www.wetip.com.

Corona Bank Robber Gets Prison

Driver and accomplice gets State Prison sentence

Photo Courtesy: Corona PD Patricia Cheree Smith, 26

Photo Courtesy: Corona PD
Patricia Cheree Smith, 26

By Claire Lewis

Riverside  – On Feb. 4, Paul Alfred Eugene Johnson, 59, and Patricia Cheree Smith, 26, both of Hemet, robbed the Pacific Premier Bank located at 102 E. Sixth Street in Corona.  Johnson threatened bank employees at gunpoint, and fled the scene with a large sum of money in a vehicle driven by Smith.

According to the Corona Police Department, Officers quickly intervened and located the vehicle, and a chase ensued into the city of Chino.  As Officers attempted a high risk enforcement stop, the vehicle stopped briefly nearly San Antonio and Bickmore avenues and the driver emerged.  That’s when things went from bad to worse.

The pursuit then continued with Johnson at the wheel.  He led Police to the 71 Freeway where he crashed off the side of the expressway.  As he exited the vehicle, he was struck multiple times by Police gunfire.  Johnson was pronounced dead at the scene.

As Smith exited the vehicle in Chino, she was immediately contacted by Police where she declared she was the victim of a hijacking at the scene of the robbery by a man with a gun.  Further investigation by Corona Police Detectives revealed that Smith was an accomplice in the bank robbery.

On May 18, Smith appeared in Riverside Superior Court.  She pleaded guilty on three counts of armed robbery.  With three strikes, Smith was sentenced to State Prison.

Straight Talk With Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

————————–

A Letter From Nina

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Q:  My daughter is dating a man who has special diet restrictions connected to his religion.  When we have social gatherings at our home, my daughter asks us to include several members of his family.  My husband and I have no problem including his family – the more the merrier – but I find it irritating to be asked repeatedly if the food I’m serving falls in line with their dietary restrictions. We’ve had eight such gatherings and I’ve taken their needs into consideration every time, but it’s wearing thin.  The whole thing has started to feel rude to me.   I would like to return to my regular party menus and entertaining routine.  Or maybe I should move the gatherings to a restaurant in the future which would eliminate the problem for me.  I don’t want to upset my daughter so I haven’t said anything to her.  Am I being unreasonable?

 

A:  This is a touchy subject because it involves religion.  We live in a time when everyone wants their religion respected, and those that have no religious beliefs want that respected as well.  However, when an invitation is accepted, it’s my opinion that it’s proper to accept the offerings of the host and hostess without additional or special requirements.  Having special expectations or making demands in any way is poor manners.  Just because your daughter is interested in this man, doesn’t mean that you have to overly alter your lifestyle to accommodate his differences.   Would you expect special treatment at the homes of his family members if you had special requirements for your meals?  These are her choices, not yours.  If it irritates you, discontinue your offers of hospitality and dine in restaurants.  It’s really that simple.

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.

Chino Valley Makes MLB Draft

Photo Courtesy: Studentsports.com Southpaw, Bailey Falter, from Chino Hills High

Photo Courtesy: Studentsports.com
Southpaw, Bailey Falter, from Chino Hills High

By Claire Lewis

Chino Valley – If you keep up with Major League Baseball, you probably know that the 2015 Draft took place recently – June 8 through 10.  A total of 1,215 individuals were selected in the 40-round draft, and three Major League Teams selected young men from the Chino Valley.

Bailey Falter, the 6-foot 4-inch, left-handed pitcher from Chino Hills High was selected by the Philadelphia Phillies in the 5th Round, 144th overall.  With exemplary high school statistics behind him, he was the first pitcher selected by the Phillies.  Falter is signed to play for the University of California Santa Barbara come fall.  He has a tough decision to make about his career.

Christian Kelley – a graduate of Don Lugo High who has played for Cal Poly Pomona for the last two years – was drafted by the Pittsburgh Pirates in the 11th Round, 337th overall.  Reportedly the lead-off hitter for Cal Poly this past season, Kelley’s most recent stats read .341 in 72 hits with one home run, 28 RBIs and 43 runs scored.

And finally, outfielder Kyle Garlick – who also played for Cal Poly Pomona after three seasons with the University of Oregon – was drafted in the 28th Round, 852nd overall, by the Los Angeles Dodgers.  Garlick, who is a graduate of Chino Hills High, was a member of the All-West Region First Team, as well as the All-CCAA First Team.

Congratulations to these Chino Valley men, who obviously have great careers ahead of them.

PUSD Celebrates Distinguished Class of 2015

More than 1,500 seniors commemorate rite of passage

Photo Courtesy: PUSD On May 29, 270 Pomona High School graduates turned their tassels to cap their high school careers.

Photo Courtesy: PUSD
On May 29, 270 Pomona High School graduates turned their tassels to cap their high school careers.

By Juliette Funes

Pomona – Academic achievement was the prevailing theme as 1,500 Pomona Unified School District graduates participated in commencement exercises during the first week of June. Students in the Class of 2015 received diplomas and turned their tassels from right to left, many of them looking forward to the next step of their educational careers.

The PUSD graduates will be headed to an impressive number of leading universities, among them UCLA, USC, UC Davis, UC Irvine UC Santa Barbara, UC San Diego, Cal Poly Pomona, Pitzer College and Vassar College. Jeremy Tran, the Valedictorian for Diamond Ranch High School, earned the District’s top grade point average, at 4.944. Tran will attend UC Berkeley.

“The rewards of a rich and diverse education will resonate emphatically throughout a graduate’s life,” said Board of Education President Andrew Wong. “Our mission is to provide for our students the foundations of accomplishment and to develop the skill sets necessary to meet the challenges in the 21st century. We applaud the Class of 2015 and wish them the best of luck.”

Diamond Ranch led the way with 450 graduates; Garey High with 313 grads; Pomona High with 270

Photo Courtesy: PUSD Diamond Ranch High School celebrated 450 graduates during its commencement ceremony June 3;

Photo Courtesy: PUSD
Diamond Ranch High School celebrated 450 graduates during its commencement ceremony June 3;

grads; Ganesha High with 250 grads; Village Academy with 95 grads; Fremont Academy with 68 grads and Palomares Academy with 28 grads. Among PUSD’s alternative education campuses, Park West High graduated 43 students and the School of Extended Education Options and the Pomona Alternative School combined to graduate 39.

The District has also seen a steady rise in graduation rates since 2010, the year that the California Department of Education adjusted its reporting to track students over all four years. In 2010, the grad rate was 71.8 percent; today it is well over 83 percent, topping the state average of 80.8 percent and the Los Angeles County average of 78 percent.

“These tremendous results demonstrate that we are succeeding in our mission to see our students earn their high school diplomas and leave our schools with the tools and skills they need to excel in the next steps of their lives,” Superintendent Richard Martinez said. “Helping our students reach their goals takes the dedication of our entire Pomona Unified family, including our staff, our parents and our community. I wish our Class of 2015 graduates continued success and we cannot wait to see all they achieve in the future.”

 

Etiwanda Preserve Rescue

Sheriff’s Aviation and SB County Fire rescue injured hiker after 50 foot fall

Photo Courtesy: SBSD

Photo Courtesy: SBSD

Staff Reports

Etiwanda Preserve – On Mon., June 1, Darren Taylor was hiking with friends in the Etiwanda Preserve, which is located just north of Rancho Cucamonga. Taylor attempted to climb down a steep cliff and fell approximately 50 feet into a creek bed. Friends hiking with Taylor immediately called 911 and requested assistance. Taylor was suffering from major injuries.
Personnel from the Rancho Cucamonga Fire Department responded. After arriving, personnel determined Taylor would need to be hoist rescued due to the remote location and rugged terrain.
San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Air Rescue 6 was requested. The crew arrived a short time later and began the hoist rescue operation. Taylor was hoisted from the location and flown to a nearby trauma center for treatment.

Dear Dad

Nancy Stoops and Midnight

Nancy Stoops and Midnight

By Nancy Stoops

Dear Dad:  I’m writing to tell you about some things that have really changed this year.   I will always miss you and my brothers, but I have so very much in my wonderful life to be grateful for.

Mom is still here with me and I’m very grateful for her.  You picked a good mom for me, and I thank you.

I have this amazing son that I couldn’t be prouder of.  He has turned out to be quite a terrific young man.  If I could have hand-molded a son, I couldn’t have done any better than what I already have; I couldn’t ask for a better son.

I have a husband that would go to the ends of the earth to make me happy.

My best friend is my dog, Midnight.  He is such a blessing!  I honestly believe you sent him to me. He is so healing for me.

Oh, and my business has grown into something I could have only dreamt about.  I think you’d be amazed by how well things are going.

While I will always miss you, I have this new sense of peace around Father’s Day; I feel like everything is going to be alright.  I feel like I can breathe and that it’s okay for me to get on with my life.  I know you and the boys would want that for me.

I think this is how I honor your memory – by just being the best I know how to be.  So I will continue to do my best to make you proud of me.

I thank you for all that you gave me during your lifetime, and I am truly honored to be your daughter. I’m grateful for all the years that I did have you with me on Father’s Day!

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.

NOTICE OF INTENT TO ADOPT A MITIGATED NEGATIVE DECLARATION FOR EASTVALE MARKETPLACE DEVELOPMENT – PROJECT No. 15-0958

Information courtesy of the City of Eastvale

An Initial Study has been prepared by the City of Eastvale for the Eastvale Marketplace retail development – Project No. 15-0958. The Initial Study is available for public review and can be downloaded from the City of Eastvale website at www.eastvaleca.gov. A printed copy of the Eastvale Marketplace IS/MND will also be available for review at the City of Eastvale Planning Department, 12363 Limonite Avenue, Suite 910, Eastvale, CA 91725 (8am-5pm, Monday-Thursday) beginning on Monday, June 22, 2015.

The proposed project is located on the northeast corner of the intersection of Limonite Avenue and Sumner Avenue (APN 164-030-019).

The proposed project consists of an approximately 71,472 square foot neighborhood retail center with multi-tenant and single-tenant buildings and associated parking facilities. The retail center would be anchored by an approximately 30,896-square foot grocery store on the northeast corner of the site. The retail center would also feature an approximately 10,140-square foot, 10-bay tire store at the site’s northern end, an approximately 3,000-square foot bank with drive up access at the site’s southeastern corner, two 3,500-square foot fast food restaurants with drive-through windows, and two additional retail buildings totaling approximately 20,436 square feet. The proposed development would include approximately 393 parking stalls. The site would be accessed via two driveways, one located on Limonite Avenue and one on Sumner Avenue as well as by two pedestrian connections located on Valencia Street.

The Initial Study identifies impacts in Biological Resources, Cultural Resources, Geology and Soils, Hazards and Hazardous Materials, Noise, and Utilities and Service Systems that require mitigation. No significant and unavoidable impacts have been identified. The proposed project site is not on any of the sites enumerated under Government Code Section 65962.5 and is not a hazardous waste facility, land designated as hazardous waste property, or a designated hazardous waste disposal site as reported on the California Department of Toxic Substances Control EnviroStor website (http://www.envirostor.dtsc.ca.gov/public/).

In accordance with CEQA Guidelines Sections 15072(a) and (b), this public notice is posted to officially notify the public, public agencies, and responsible and trustee agencies that the required 21-day public review period will commence on Monday June 22, 2015, and conclude on Monday, July 13, 2015. Any written comments (via e-mail or letter) on the Initial Study/MND must be submitted to Kanika Kith, Senior Planner, Eastvale Planning Department no later than 5:00 p.m. on the closing day of the comment period. Written comments may be mailed to City of Eastvale Planning Department, Attn: Kanika Kith, 12363 Limonite Ave, Suite 910, Eastvale, CA 91752, or can be emailed to kkith@eastvaleca.gov.

A copy of the Initial Study/Mitigated Negative Declaration is available for public review at the following three (3) locations:

  • Eastvale City Hall, 12363 Limonite Ave. Suite 910, Eastvale, CA 91752 (Mon–Thurs 8am-5pm).

 

  • Eastvale Library, 7447 Cleveland Avenue, Eastvale, CA 92880 (Mon–Thurs 3:00 to 8:00 p.m.; Fri 3:00 to 6:00 p.m.; Sat 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.; Sun – Closed).

 

  • Riverside County Clerk-Recorder, 2720 Gateway Drive, Riverside, CA 92507 (Mon-Thu 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.).

Chaparral Wind Ensemble Plays Kennedy Center

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD The Chaparral Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Leslie Schroerlucke, took the stage at the Kennedy Center during the John Philip Sousa Festival in Washington, D.C.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
The Chaparral Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Leslie Schroerlucke, took the stage at the Kennedy Center during the John Philip Sousa Festival in Washington, D.C.

By Kelli Gile

Diamond Bar – The Chaparral Middle School Wind Ensemble performed during the John Philip Sousa Band Festival at the renowned Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.

The 40-member group was one of only four bands from across the country – and the only middle school invited – to celebrate the music of the “March King” during the May 31 concert.

The ensemble presented Sea Song Trilogy, Tame the Savage Sea, and Fairest of the Fair under the direction of Leslie Schroerlucke.  Also debuted by the students, was Memories of the March King, a three-movement piece by Dr. Buddy Clements, Instrumental Music Director at Walnut High.

Music Celebrations International hosted the inaugural Sousa festival.

“It was an amazing trip! Students definitely rose to the challenge and played better than I had ever heard them,” Schroerlucke commented.

The Chaparral musicians impressed the 1,000-member audience who showed their appreciation with a rousing standing ovation.

“We had many people stop us afterward and comment that they couldn’t believe we were a middle school band!” the Diamond Bar director recalled.

“It was a thrill to play on a national stage with so much history,” she added.

The ensemble also shared the dressing room once occupied by legendary conductors Aaron Copland and Leonard Bernstein.

Additional highlights of the trip included a clinic with conductor Anthony Maiello at George Mason University, a U.S. Marine Band concert, and a wreath laying ceremony at the gravesite of John Philip Sousa in the Congressional Cemetery.

Students enjoyed sightseeing at historical monuments and Smithsonian museums.

Eastvale: Meet Your New City Manager

Michele Nissen, Interim City Manager

Michele Nissen, Interim City Manager

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – After a long search, the Eastvale City Council recently approved the appointment of a permanent City Manager at their regular Council meeting on May 13.  Michele Nissen, who has been seated as the Interim City Manager during the search, was unanimously voted into the position, effective immediately.  Nissen was selected from 28 applicants in a nationwide search over the past six months.

Eastvale’s Mayor, Ike Bootsma, summed up the Council’s sentiments perfectly in a recent press release from the City of Eastvale:

“We are very excited to have Michele serve as the City Manager of Eastvale.  She has been working for the City in many different roles since incorporation and is well-known by the citizens and stakeholders – which is an asset to the community.  Her knowledge of internal operations, along with her dedication and hard work, made her the clear choice for City Manager.  I am confident that she will do a great job in her newest role.”

In an effort to help citizens get to know the new City Manager just a little bit better, the Eastvale News sat down with Nissen for an interview:

Q:  How long have you been in Eastvale?

A:  My husband and I moved to Eastvale in October 2001 with our son Christopher, who was nine months old at the time.  We moved here from the South Bay where we grew up.  When we first moved to Eastvale, we didn’t know a soul here and there were more cows than people.  In fact, I used to wake up every morning at about 5 a.m. to the sound of cows hitting the feed gates.  Our family has grown a little bit with the addition of our second child, Olivia, in 2002, and our furry, four-legged son, Conrad, who joined us in 2009.  Conrad is a huge yellow Labrador Retriever.

Q:  When did you start working for the City of Eastvale?

A:  My service with the City of Eastvale began in November 2010, when I was appointed to the Eastvale Planning Commission.  It was an honor to serve as former Council member Kelly Howell’s planning commissioner for 18 months.  Prior to incorporation, I had been working in a volunteer capacity as part of the Eastvale Community Committee, and I coordinated the quarterly Eastvale Town Hall meetings for about eight years.  I also had the pleasure of being one of the editors and writers for the Eastvale Edition.  In July 2011, I was asked to participate in a part-time, temporary assignment to develop a new city website.  This was a very exciting project for me due to my background in journalism, public relations and website content development.  As the City grew and the service demands increased, this part-time, temporary assignment became the part-time Public Information Officer position.  In July 2012, I became the full-time Public Information Officer.  I served as the City’s PIO until December 2014 when the position was combined with the role of Assistant City Manager.  During my tenure with the City, I have also served as the City’s Acting City Manager when needed. The search for a permanent City Manager began in November 2014, and in March 2015 the City Council appointed me to serve as the Interim City Manager while they continued the search for a permanent solution.  It was an honor to be appointed as the permanent City Manager in May.  Being the City Manager is not a role or responsibility that I take lightly, because Eastvale is where my heart is.

Q:  What do you love about Eastvale? 

A:  There are so many things that I love about Eastvale, it’s hard to narrow it down.  I love the people of this community and the dear friends that I have made since moving here. The residents are caring, dedicated, and proud – which is reflected by the quality of life that we have created here in Eastvale.  Over the years, I have coached both boys’ and girls’ soccer with the Empire Soccer Club, been a team mom for Eastvale Little League, and assisted with many community events.  I love running into the kids that have been on one of my teams and hearing about what they are up to.  It’s exciting to watch our youth grow up and become the next generation of leaders and scholars.  I also love the clouds and sunsets in Eastvale.  My kids tease me because I take a lot of pictures of clouds and sunsets.

Q:  As City Manager, what plans do you have for Eastvale?

A:  One of my goals is to successfully implement the policy directives, goals and objectives of the City Council, while creating a service-oriented culture at City Hall.

In her new role, Nissen will be responsible for a City budget of approximately $14.7 million, as well as a staff of eight employees and 20 contract employees for building, public works and planning.  She holds a Bachelor’s degree from Loyola Marymount University and will complete her Masters degree in Public Administration from Cal Baptist University this August.

The Eastvale News congratulates Michele Nissen on a job well done, and her new appointment as City Manager for the City of Eastvale.

Happy Father’s Day

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

I suppose we all have a variety of impressions of our fathers.  I wonder what impressions my children have of me.

When you think of your father, do you think of someone who was kind and tender, or critical and impatient?  Was your dad a strict disciplinarian or easy going and laid back?

Fathers have a unique role in the lives of their children.  Mothers have their unique role as well. Sometimes these roles may merge together, but there is a unique role and relationship between a father and his children.

One of the things that dads can do is make memories with their children.  These memories don’t need to always be expensive trips to amusement parks.  They can be a simple outing to a local park.  Taking walks and playing games in the backyard can create lasting memories for kids and dads.

I remember one time, when my father took my brother and me on a fishing trip in the mountains in eastern Arizona.  My mom stayed home; it was just my father and his two young sons.

I don’t know whose idea it was, but I do know that my brother and I still remember that trip with our father.  I don’t remember how many fish we caught or what food we ate.  But I do remember going fishing and camping with my father.

My son and I have shared some memorable adventures together.  We climbed to the top of the highest mountain in southern Arizona.  Mt. Wrightson is a little over 9,000 feet.  It was a long hike.  But every time we visit Tucson, I look at that tall peak and remember we climbed it together.

I think my son would say that one of his favorite memories that he and I shared together was our trip to the beaches of Normandy, France, several years ago.  It was amazing to walk together on those broad beaches and through the cemetery at Omaha Beach.

I also enjoyed some special trips and outings with my daughters when they were younger.  One time my youngest daughter and I flew together to a cousin’s destination wedding in Hawaii.  It was a memorable time for both of us.

Being a dad is a wonderful privilege and a unique responsibility.

If you are a father, let me encourage you to make some memories with your children.  It is never too late to set a date and do something together with your sons or daughters.  They will be glad you did, and you will, 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.

Where Do You Find Your Hope?

Mark Lee New

Pastor Mark Lee

By Pastor Mark Lee

In many ways, this time of year is all about hope.  Whether you are preparing to graduate, planning a wedding, or simply anticipating a vacation, this month is full of promise.  Because of this, June has the ability to turn everybody into school kids anxiously awaiting the start of summer.  After all, who doesn’t like to have something to look forward to?

It is common for people to believe that something better is on the horizon.  In fact, it can actually be beneficial.  Research indicates that hopeful individuals experience higher levels of achievement.  In scientific studies, athletes, college students, and test takers all performed better when they were optimistic about the future.

The problem, however, is that it is not always easy to be optimistic.  We expect our vacations to bring us freedom, our graduations to bring us wealth, and our weddings to bring us companionship. But what happens when our vacations are over, our job hunts are unsuccessful, and we are fighting with our spouses?

As humans, we have a tendency to believe that specific people, events, or accomplishments will fix our problems.  We put our hope in these things, expecting that they will improve our lives.  But, this doesn’t always happen.  And, when it does, the results are often temporary.  Those things that once brought us hope can often leave us feeling hopeless.

For a guaranteed and permanent solution, we have to look beyond this world. In Psalms 25:3, David wrote, “No one whose hope is in you will ever be put to shame.”  Unlike the people and things in our lives, God is all-powerful and ever-present.  If we place our hope in Him, we will never be disappointed.

VantagePoint Church meets at Roosevelt High School on Sundays at 9:30 and 11:00 a.m.