San Gabriel Valley: Community Events

Staff Reports

 UPCOMING EVENTS:

Free ESL and Citizenship Classes

When: Monday through Thursday, 9 to 11 a.m.; or Monday through Thursday, 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: 2100 Lerona Avenue, Rowland Heights

Details: Rowland Adult & Community Education is now offering free English as a Second Language and Citizenship courses to adult students this summer due to a grant received from the Majestic Reality Foundation in the City of Industry.

Contact: Call (626) 965-5975, or visit http://race.rowland.k12.ca.us.

 

Calvary Lutheran Summer Kids’ Day Camp

When: Monday, Now through Wednesday, August 20; 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Where: Mt. Calvary Lutheran Church & Schools, 23300 Golden Springs Dr., Diamond Bar 91765 Details: A fun, safe, Christian environment for your school age children. Kids’ camp is a summer day camp program based on fun, personal and spiritual growth, and the celebration of God’s Word through various activities, field trips, and daily devotions.  All children ages 5 – 12 are invited to attend.  Check out the Mt. Calvary Lutheran website for more information about daily activities, registration, and fees.

 

West Covina Summer Concert Series

When: Thursday evenings, now through August 7; 6 to 9 p.m.

Where: West Covina Civic Center, 1444 W. Garvey Avenue

Details: Bring your lawn chairs, blankets and dancing shoes and enjoy this summer entertainment:

  • Aug 16: Food Truck Frenzy and Concert

Contact: Community Services Department, (626) 939-8489.

 

Diamond Bar Concert/Movie Series

When: Wednesday evenings through August 13; 6:30 p.m.

Where: Sycamore Canyon Park, 22930 Golden Springs Drive

Details: Free admission and free parking

  • Aug 13: Little Lies Band (Fleetwood Mac Tribute); Despicable Me 2

Contact: www.ci.diamond-bar.ca.us

 

1st Annual West Covina Business Expo

When: Saturday, Aug. 23; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Where: Plaza West Covina Mall, 112 Plaza Drive.

Details: The Greater West Covina Business Association, The City of West Covina, and Plaza West Covina are partnering to bring you this event for exhibitor business-to-business opportunities, educations workshops, professional networking, and a variety of resources.

Contact: Monica Farias, at (626) 939-3350, or visit http://www.greaterwestcovina.com.

 

Wheel Food Fest

When: September 5, October 3 (1st Friday of the month); 5 to 8:30 p.m.

Where: Walnut Valley Unified School District, 880 S. Lemon Avenue, in Walnut.

Details: The Walnut Valley Educational Foundation is sponsoring a family fun night with a variety of gourmet food trucks. This is a delicious way to support your students, schools and community. There are no entry fees, and there is plenty of free parking. Bring a blanket or chair and enjoy! Food trucks may include: The Slummin’ Gourmet, Macho Nacho, Rolling Sushi, Cup Cakery, Crepes Bonaparte, White Rabbit, and Dos Chinos. Please leave your pets at home, and do not bring alcohol, outside food or drinks.

 

Youth Citizens Police Academy Class VIII

When: Monday – Thursday, Aug. 11-21; 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Where: Chino Police Department, 5450 Walnut Avenue

Details: High school teens, 14-18 years of age, who live or attend school in the City of Chino, can get an inside look at all the functions of their local law enforcement agency. Participants will get hands-on experience with SWAT, Patrol, Criminal Investigations, K-9, CSI, Narcotics, Traffic and much more!

Contact: Olivia Le Van, (909) 334-3087, or olevan@chinopd.org for applications.

 

Irwindale Poker Tournament

When: Aug. 22 through Oct. 3; Tournament on Oct. 3, 5:30 p.m.

Where: Participating restaurants and The Pub at Miller-Coors.

Details: 6th Annual World of Food Poker Tournament, an innovative program designed to provide a fun way for poker players to earn bonus chips while driving business to local participating restaurants Registered players are encouraged to visit participating restaurants from Aug. 22 through Oct. 3 collecting chips for purchases. A Texas Hold-Em’ elimination tournament will be held on Fri., Oct. 3.

Contact: Detailed information is available on the Irwindale Chamber of Commerce website at www.irwindalechamber.org. Register no later than Aug. 7 to ensure full access to all materials.

 

Hollywood Bowl Fireworks Finale featuring the Simpsons!

When: Saturday, Sept. 13

Where: Hollywood Bowl, Hollywood, CA (busses depart from Park-N-Ride, 20983 La Puente Road (at Gartel Drive).

Details: Journey from the animated Springfield Bowl to the Hollywood Bowl for this unprecedented event as the famous orchestra accompanies your favorite scenes from the Simpsons on the big screen. Seats are located in Section F2, Rows 5, 6, and 7. The fee is $55 per person, appropriate for all ages.

Contact: For registration and additional information, call Walnut Community Services Department, (909) 598-5605.

 

WEEKLY EVENTS:

Bookstore Blowout

Where: Twice Sold Tale Bookstore located at the Walnut Library, La Puente Road, Walnut CA 91789

When: Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Fridays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Details: All books and media: Any four items for $1 ($1 minimum purchase).

Contact: (909) 595-0757 or email the.walnut.library@mac.com.

 

Resources for the Classroom Days at Basically BOOKS

When: Second Tuesday of every month.

Where: Basically BOOKS locations: at 23447 Golden Springs Road, Diamond Bar and at the Diamond Bar Library: 21800 Copley Drive, Diamond Bar.

Details: Books and education videos will be offered at special discounts for teachers at all levels. Teachers can sign up at either Basically BOOKS locations or email BasicallyBOOKS@aol.com to join these special teacher appreciation afternoons.

 

Free Acupuncture for Veterans, Active Military, First Responders

When: Every Tuesday at 5 p.m.

Where: 12598 Central Avenue, Unit 113, Chino, CA 91710.

Cost: Free

Contact: (909) 590-4183 or http://www.healingcirclecommunityacupuncture.com

 

Jack Newe’s Farmers Market sponsored by SGV Regional Chamber of Commerce

When: Every Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Mt. San Antonio College Campus, Parking Lot B, 1100 N. Grand Avenue, Walnut CA 91789

Cost: Free Admission/Parking

Features: Seasonal organic produce, breads and cakes, olive oils, cheese and spreads, a variety of nursery plants, hand-crafted items and jewelry, fresh-popped Kettle Corn and grilled food plates.

Contact: (909) 869-0701

 

Eastvale: New Lieutenant For The Eastvale Police Department

STAFF REPORTS

 

Lieutenant evan peterson of eastvale police department

New Eastvale Lieutenant, Evan Peterson (Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale)

Eastvale – Lieutenant Evan Petersen has been selected to serve as the new lieutenant for the City of Eastvale Police Department, Jurupa Valley Station. Peterson replaces Assistant Chief of Police, Lt. Michael Yates, who ended his tenure with Eastvale in July for another assignment.

Petersen has been with the Riverside Sheriff’s Department since 1996. Prior to entering law enforcement, he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree from California State University San Bernardino in Business Management.

Petersen’s first patrol assignment was for the Jurupa Valley Station at the beginning of 1999, where he remained until 2004. He was promoted to Sergeant in 2004, and promoted again to Lieutenant in 2008.

During his tenure as a Sheriff’s Lieutenant, Petersen has held commands within Sheriff’s Personnel, the Moreno Valley Station, Sheriff’s Homicide, and has spent the last year at the Jurupa Valley Station.

Petersen and his wife, Andrea, have three children, Ethan, Emma, and Ellen.

Please join us in welcoming Lt. Petersen to the Eastvale Police Department.  He may be reached at the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station at epetersen@riversidesheriff.org, or by calling (951) 955-2600.

 

Orange County: Former Fannie Mae Official Sentenced to Federal Prison

STAFF REPORTS

Santa Ana – A former sales associate with the Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) was sentenced on Mon., Aug. 4 to 15 months in federal prison for taking kickbacks from a real estate broker who sold properties on behalf of the mortgage agency.

According to the Assistant United States Attorney, Stephen Goorvitch, Armando Granillo, 45, of Huntington Beach, who worked in the Fannie Mae’s Irvine office, was sentenced by United States District Judge, David O. Carter.  In addition to his 15 month sentence in federal prison, Granillo was ordered to spend 6 months in a residential reentry center.

Following a two-day trial in March, Granillo was found guilty of three counts of “honest services” wire fraud for soliciting kickbacks while working for Fannie Mae.

As a “real estate owned foreclosure specialist” for Fannie Mae, Granillo reviewed applications submitted by real estate brokers who wanted to list Fannie Mae foreclosure properties, and he had the authority to approve sale offers presented by the brokers. In late 2012, Granillo asked a real estate broker in Tucson to pay a percentage of the commissions the broker earned for selling Fannie Mae foreclosure properties. The broker brought the matter to the attention of federal law enforcement officials and assisting in the investigation.

During subsequent conversations between Granillo and the broker, Granillo demanded 20 percent of the real estate broker’s commissions in exchange for preferential treatment in the assignment and sales of Fannie Mae properties. In February 2012, Granillo traveled from Orange County to the Phoenix area, where he met with the broker. During the recorded meeting, Granillo stated that the kickback arrangement was a “natural part of business.” Granillo promised to increase the broker’s portfolio and ensure that he always had at least 100 listings, to give the broker the best properties, and to help the broker get offers approved by Fannie Mae. Granillo then arranged to receive the $11,200 payment from the broker.

Granillo was arrested in this case on Mar. 5, 2013 during an undercover operation after accepting an $11,200 payment from the real estate broker.

Granillo “violated Fannie Mae and the public’s trust by engaging in a form of public corruption,” prosecutors wrote in a sentencing brief filed with the court. “This crime is akin to those involving governmental officials who solicit bribes in exchange for favorable treatment. The reputational damage is devastating and potentially permanent.”

Fannie Mae is currently under the conservatorship of the Federal Housing Finance Agency. The investigation into Granillo was conducted by the Federal Housing Finance Agency’s Office of Inspector General.

 

 

 

Eastvale: Planning Commission Vacancy

City of Eastvale

 

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale has a vacancy on the Planning Commission which has been posted on the Employment page of the City’s website. Interested parties are encouraged to submit a Volunteer Application with a resume and cover letter. City applications are available on the Employment page. The filing deadline is Aug. 20, at 5 p.m.

The Planning Commission is a five-member commission composed of residents appointed by the City Council. The Planning Commissioners term of service runs concurrent with the council member that appointed the commissioner.

The Planning Commission has the authority to review all development proposals for approval consideration. The Commission may advise the City Council in the development and application of policies affecting land use and development within the City. The Commission may also review and make recommendations regarding any proposed changes to the General Plan, Zoning Regulations and Design Standards.

Additional details about the Planning Commission may be found on the City’s Planning Commission page (http://www.eastvaleca.gov/index.aspx?page=29&recordid=1213).

Please direct any questions on this position to the City Manager’s Office, at (951) 361-0900.

 

Chino: Plans For Pine Ave Extension Moving Along

By GLENN FREEMAN

 

(Photo Courtesy: aaroads.com)

(Photo Courtesy: aaroads.com)

Chino – After several years of being on the “wish list” for many local residents, the full connection of Pine Avenue, from Euclid Avenue to the Chino Valley, or 71 Freeway, may be as little as two to three years off.

The road in question heads east from the 71 Freeway through portions of southern Chino Hills and Chino before connecting with Schleisman Road in Eastvale. An interchange at Pine and the 71 is one of the most recently completed components of the freeway. However, to the dismay of many, a “missing link” remains at that junction with an eastern gap that prevents direct freeway access. The next entrance is over a mile and a half away at Euclid/Butterfield Ranch.

According to San Bernardino Associated Governments (SANBAG), the agency responsible for regional transportation planning in San Bernardino County, plans are underway to close this gap and widen existing portions of Pine Avenue in the area of Euclid Avenue, from two lanes to four lanes.

SANBAG’s website lists the project as being in the “PS&E” phase (Engineering/Plans, Specifications and Estimates), which they indicate to be completed by spring of 2015.

Though coordinated by SANBAG, the City of Chino is acting as the lead agency on the project.

Jesus Plasencia, Planning Engineer for the City of Chino, stated in an email response that the city “is currently working with its consultant and other stakeholders to obtain environmental clearance for the Project.”

Plasencia says completion of this first phase of environmental clearance is anticipated later this year. However, he says a full timeline on the project is not yet available.

Once completed, the connection would also be helpful for Eastvale residents heading west into Chino Hills and the 71 Freeway. Michele Nissen with the City of Eastvale says that although the city does see the connection as a benefit to its residents, “Eastvale is not in a decision making position, since it is not within the City’s jurisdictional boundary.”

Chino: Police Department Issues Warning – Family Emergency Scam

City of Chino

 

Chino – Across the county, people are falling victim to a nationwide scam in which individuals pose as family members and urge victims to wire thousands of dollars due to an emergency. In another scenario, callers claim to be employed by the IRS and are calling to collect a debt.

 

Although the circumstances vary from case to case, typical schemes include using information (usually obtained via the internet, including social media sites and illegally obtained email) to impersonate a family member and/or a legal representative, such as a lawyer. This individual often insists that the victim keep the request confidential and asks that the money be wired immediately. By the time the person realizes they have been victimized, the money is gone and cannot be traced. Most cases lead law enforcement to locations outside of the county, making these crimes very difficult to investigate.

 

If found in this situation, Officers of the Chino Police Department urge residents and members of the business community to protect themselves by utilizing the following prevention tips:

 

  • Resist the urge to act immediately, regardless of the sense of urgency implied by the caller.
  • Verify the identity of the person by asking specific questions a stranger could not answer.
  • Try to contact the alleged family member if possible.
  • Verify the story with someone close to the family member.
  • Report possible fraud to your local law enforcement officials.

 

If you have information related to this type of activity please contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

 

 

Eastvale: Nomination Period Extended – Notice of Election

City of Eastvale

Eastvale – An Incumbent for the City of Eastvale has opted not to file nomination papers. Council Member Ric Welch will not be running for re-election. Therefore, the City of Eastvale has extended its Nomination Period until August 13, 2014.

If you have additional questions, please contact the Eastvale City Clerk’s Office: (951) 361-0900.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a General Municipal Election will be held in the City of Eastvale, California, on Tuesday, the 4th day of November, 2014, for the following officers:

Three Members of the City Council, Each of said officers to serve a full four-year term.

Prospective City Council candidates who wish to file papers for the November 2014 General Municipal Election must schedule an appointment with the City Clerk by calling (951) 361-0900.

The polls will be open between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. on Tues., Nov. 4, 2014 for the General Municipal Election.

 

Eastvale: DUI Checkpoint Controversy

BY K.P. SANDER

 

Eastvale – It seems like every time information is published about an impending Sobriety Checkpoint, or the results of one, citizens on Facebook and other social media sites post rants implying everything from a violation of civil or constitutional rights, to just a way for the city to make money. But what about another perspective?

DUI Checkpoints, or roadblocks, involve law enforcement officials stopping every vehicle, or every random vehicle, on a public roadway and investigating the possibility that a driver may be too impaired to drive. They can occur at random, on research obtained by law enforcement, or even be set near exit points of public events to prevent large numbers of drunk drivers from being released into traffic simultaneously.

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) says that in 2012, just in California, more than 10,000 people died in alcohol-impaired driving crashes; that’s one every 51 minutes. Further, 28 percent of all traffic deaths were alcohol related, not to mention the estimated $37 billion that these accidents cost every year. Those are some statistics the public should surely like to see reduced; significantly.

According to California Watch, DUI Checkpoints have saved countless lives on the nation’s roadways and have brought thousands of drunken drivers to justice. And by inspecting driver’s licenses, police catch motorists driving unlawfully, typically without insurance, and temporarily remove them from the road.

As far as ranting about legalities, California Vehicle Code 2814.2VC authorizes these inspections. DUI Checkpoints have also been held valid under both the United States and California constitutions. The California Supreme Court states that DUI Checkpoints are administrative inspections (akin to airport screenings) and as such they are an exception to the 4th Amendment rule that an officer must have probable cause to initiate a California DUI investigation.

In a recent interview with Captain Jason Horton from the Eastvale Police Department, he said, “I’d like to make one thing perfectly clear. We do not hold checkpoints for any financial gain. First of all, we are a public agency bound by the laws of the State of California and funded by the office of Transportation Safety, and we are not allowed to ‘make money’. But more importantly, these checkpoints are for education and notification that we have a zero tolerance for driving under the influence. We use real statistics to show that there is a need for these checkpoints in our city. Our goals are to reduce collisions and injuries and remove impaired drivers from the road. We have made arrests, but I think everyone can agree that we do not want these people on our Eastvale streets.”

The latest DUI Checkpoint conducted by the Eastvale Police Department occurred on July 25 near Schleisman and Archibald between the hours of 7 p.m. and 3 a.m. The operation examined 1,005 vehicles, and resulted in one DUI arrest, five sobriety field tests, three citations for unlicensed drivers, one citation for a suspended license, 13 citations for various vehicle and/or penal code violations, and one towed vehicle. So what if that checkpoint netted ONLY one DUI arrest. What if that driver had killed someone? What if that someone was in your family?

The nearby Chino Police Department successfully conducted a DUI Checkpoint on July 19 that resulted in the arrest of four subjects that were driving under the influence, as well as another for drug related charges. What if those five drivers were heading for Eastvale?

According to Horton, checkpoints are placed in locations that have the greatest opportunity for achieving deterrence, and provide the greatest safety for officers and the public. Locations are based upon research and statistics; the byproduct is education and awareness.

So, when you read social media comments about these checkpoints invading one’s privacy, or that the police are just trying to generate revenue for the city through citations, remember that the bottom line is that these checkpoints have been shown to lower DUI-related deaths and injuries. NHTSA says that checkpoints have provided the most effective documented results of any of the DUI enforcement strategies. According to the Eastvale Police Department, a major component of these checkpoints is the deterrent effects they have on those who might drive drunk or drug impaired. The knowledge of a checkpoint in the area of “celebration” encourages the use of designated drivers, less drinking, and more planning. That can only be a good thing. As they say, “Drunk Driving: Over the Limit, Under Arrest.” It’s the law.

The next time you see a DUI Checkpoint in place, don’t panic or become agitated. Officers are courteous, efficient and professional, and they are just trying to keep you safe. What have you got to hide?

Horton says that officers at checkpoints rarely issue citations unless the situation warrants it. If a citation or enforcement ticket is written, a portion of the money collected goes to the state for court fees, and a portion comes back to the city. But they are not out there to increase revenue, by any means.

And yes, there is definitely a profit for the City. The proceeds derived from removing impaired drivers from the road, even if the net revenue was just one individual – and what if that individual was one that might have run a red light you were crossing against – is worth more than any citation could ever yield. A new perspective to consider.

 

 

 

 

La Puente: Local Girl Runs For Charity

Blanca-Ramirez-of-Operation-Smile

Blanca Ramirez at the Great Wall of China (Photo Courtesy: Operation Smile)

STAFF REPORTS
La Puente – 12-year old Blanca Ramirez is running for charity. She has a goal to become the youngest person ever to run seven marathons on seven continents…before her next birthday.

It sounds more than ambitious, but Ramirez is nearly half way there already. She has run marathons in Africa, Asia and the United States, and is looking forward to running in South America this month, Australia in November, and Europe in early 2015. That just leaves Antarctica, which is scheduled next March.

Ramirez took to running as a family affair, but then she had the idea to globalize her running for charity. She runs to benefit Operation Smile, one of the largest surgical organizations in the world, and also the largest volunteer-based medical charity providing free cleft surgeries. They have provided over 220,000 free surgical procedures to children with cleft lip, cleft palate, and other facial deformities. Every three minutes a child is born with one of these conditions, which makes it difficult to eat, speak, hear and breathe properly.

Ramirez’ effort to raise awareness for such a worthwhile cause is definitely something to smile about. You can follow her journey and find out more about Operation Smile by visiting Team Blanca at http://teamblancausa.com/#operationsmile.

 

San Gabriel: Flash Flood Kills 1 In Mount Baldy

STAFF REPORTS

Mount Baldy – The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, San Dimas Station, has issued a statement that Joohwan Lee, 48, of El Segundo, was killed in a flash flood accident on Sun., Aug. 3, between 6:15 and 7:15 p.m.

The San Gabriel Mountains experienced heavy rainfall which created a flash flood condition that overflowed Bear Canyon Creek. Lee, who was driving northbound on Bear Canyon Road, was caught in the flash and the force of the mud and debris pushed his vehicle 200 feet south on the road where it came to rest against a tree.

San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department deputies patrolling nearby located Lee’s vehicle, and with the assistance of the San Bernardino County Fire Department, he was extricated. However, Lee succumbed to his injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. The Los Angeles County Coroner has yet to determine the exact cause of death.

Deputies from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department San Dimas Sheriff’s Station responded and assumed control of the investigation.

Anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, San Dimas Station, Sergeant Rodriquez, at (909) 450-2700. 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.

Eastvale: Disability Placard / Plate Misuse Operation

City of Eastvale
handicap placard finalThe Eastvale Police Department, in its continued efforts in public safety awareness, conducted a Disability Placard/Misuse Prevention Program.

The purpose of the program was to educate the public regarding the misuse of handicap placards in the possession of those who have not been issued a handicap placard for their own personal use. This operation was conducted in conjunction with the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and the Eastvale Traffic Team.

The program consisted of five sworn deputies and two Community Service Officers to better help educate the public in the surrounding Eastvale locations. The goal was to educate the public about illegally parking in designated handicap parking stalls and the misuse of the DMV-issued Disability Placards. There have been a growing number of complaints by the citizens of Eastvale, regarding multiple vehicles parking in handicap stalls which either are not displaying the appropriate DMV placard, or parking in a handicap parking stall and having never been issued a DMV Disability Placard. Through minimal enforcement of the handicap placards in the past, we have found many citizens misusing the placards and designated handicap parking stalls at various locations throughout the city of Eastvale.

After the completion of the operation, 23 handicap violations were found and cited, along with 19 other violations, such as expired registration and registration tabs. In addition, 3 vehicles were towed for registration expired over six months, per the vehicle code section 4000(a)(1) CVC.

This program was part of the ongoing public safety awareness effort being made by the city of Eastvale. The Eastvale Police Department takes a proactive approach in the education of our citizens and enforcement of the laws dealing with the illegal use of DMV Disability Placards and misuse of handicap parking stalls.

Diamond Bar: New Charges For DB Roof Cut Burglary Prisoners

STAFF REPORTS

roof-top-burlars-diamond-bar

(Photo Courtesy: LA County Sheriff’s Department)

Diamond Bar – Three Inland Empire men already incarcerated for stealing millions of dollars are now facing new federal charges based upon information recently derived regarding two more burglaries.

Laurentiu Penescu, 39, of Yucaipa; Lucian Gabriel Isaia, 33 of Beaumont; and Alceu Johnny Andreis, 46, of Banning, are currently serving various federal prison terms from three to four-plus years for cutting through building roofs with power tools to gain access inside cement bank vaults. A BBCN Bank in Diamond Bar was burglarized in 2012, and the group failed to break in to a Citibank branch, also in Diamond Bar, in 2013. They also hit an East West bank in Rowland Heights in 2011.

The trio pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank burglary and attempted bank burglary in January, although this is not the first time that they have served time for this type of crime. Prosecutors have stated that almost ten years ago they were convicted of a series of rooftop heists in Riverside County, stealing more than $3.5 million in cash and gems

If convicted of new charges, Penescu, Isaia and Andreis will spend decades in prison. Also convicted in this case are Dean Muniz, 47, of Fontana – who is serving ten years; and Daniel Soto, 38, of Riverside, who is awaiting sentence.

The Weekly News Complete Edition 08.09.14

The Weekly News covers community news for Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link Aug9WeeklyAll  to access the complete Aug 9-15 issue in pdf format.

Sheriff’s Department Uses Eleanor Roosevelt High School For Training

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

eleanor-roosevelt-high-school

Eleanor Roosevelt High School in Eastvale was the site of a recent “Active Shooter Training Scenario” conducted by Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and the Corona-Norco Unified School District. (Photo Courtesy: ERHS)

Eastvale – In partnership with the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD), the Riverside Sheriff’s Department, overseen by Captain Jason Horton, participated in an Active Shooter Training Scenario exercise.

This training exercise allowed deputies to respond to a mock incident that simulated a real-life crisis whereby someone attempted to create violence on a campus.

According to Horton, “This doesn’t necessarily mean a school shooting only; it can also be where someone is coming on campus with the intent to injure as many victims as they can. It can also be stabbings, etc.”

Every deputy assigned out of Eastvale’s Jurupa Valley station underwent this specialized training, which occurred over a week-long period at a variety of hours. In order to accommodate the shifts of all the deputies, some of the training was held at night.

Using Eleanor Roosevelt High School as a training facility gave the deputies a way to familiarize themselves with the layout of the school, as well as some of the faculty and administration that they would be working with. The Sheriff’s Department used trained “role-players” to make the situation as real as possible.

CNUSD administration was provided training and allowed to watch a demonstration. They will take this learning experience back to the schools and train their staff members.

“We feel that along with the training that the deputies already have, this exercise serves as a way to sharpen their skills even further,” said Horton about the training. This scenario-based instruction caused concern by residents who were alarmed that something awful had happened at the high school. However, the exercise was just a way for our local deputies to further improve their skills to keep our community safe.

 

The Summer Of Love

BY PASTOR MARK LEE

Pastor Mark Lee Vantage Point Church

Pastor Mark Lee of Vantage Point Church in Eastvale

During the warm months of 1967, thousands of people from across the United States converged upon the Haight-Ashbury neighborhood of San Francisco as part of a hippie counterculture movement that became known as, “The Summer of Love.”

47 years later, VantagePoint Church created its own version of the Summer of Love. The goal of the campaign was simple: To be living proof of a loving God. From giving away water, coffee, and Redbox rentals to hosting a football and cheerleading camp, church members were committed to serving the residents of Eastvale.

One of the many benefits of this special campaign was that it helped promote the importance of community. Researchers have repeatedly found that people with strong social connections have happier lives, less stress-related health problems, lower risk of mental illness, and faster recovery from trauma or illness.

So, how do you foster a greater sense of connectedness? The answer is twofold. First, you need to be real. While we often feel the need to present a perfect image to the outside world, the truth is that you can only be loved to the extent you are known. In joining our lives with others, we also need to be accepting. Realness doesn’t happen without acceptance. After all, who wants to open themselves up if they know they will get hurt?

Psalms 133:1 says, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity.” There is power in community. Whether you get to know your neighbor, become involved in your city, or simply open your heart to another person, you will be blessed.

 

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

Rain, Rain, Go Away

BY PASTOR MARK HOPPER

 

Pastor Mark Hopper Diamond Bar

Pastor Mark Hopper

We don’t get a lot of rain in Southern California in the summer.  In fact, we usually don’t see a drop of rain between May and November.  We get most of our rain in the winter and spring.

On our recent trip to Central Europe, we experienced the exact opposite.  It rained day after day for a week.  The creeks were full and the hillsides were covered with lush green grass.  It looked like a picture postcard. We all enjoy a light drizzle or an evening shower, but this rain wouldn’t quit.  It rained hard for days.

The farmers may appreciate all the rain, but young grandchildren and visiting grandparents can get a little cabin fever after a week of rain. Usually we got out each day to walk or ride bikes to a local park.  It is fun to get out and the grandkids loved the play yard at the park.  But it was hard to go anywhere with rain every day.

One solution we found was to drive a few miles to a nearby town and go to the shopping mall. This provided a good alternative and got all of us out of the house.

One of the best things about this part of the world is enjoying the outdoors.  It can be cold and barren in the winter, but spring and summer are beautiful.  We love it and the grandkids do, too.

Whether you live in Southern California or Central Europe, rain and water are essential. In the Bible it says, “God has shown His kindness by giving us rain from heaven and crops in their season, providing us with plenty of food and filling our hearts with joy,” (Acts 14:17).

The rain and the weather are good reminders of how blessed we are to live and enjoy the world that God has made, even when it is more rain than we would like. I’m sure we all hope to see some more rain soon in Southern California.

 

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.

Straight Talk With Danice

BY DANICE AKIYOSHI, N.D.

 

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi:

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi, Naturopathic Doctor, Coaching, Counseling

Dr. Danice Akiyoshi

There is a guy I like at my neighborhood bar. I go there three times a week hoping I will run into him. He is always polite to me when I talk to him, so I thought I had a chance with him. He hasn’t been there for the past two weeks now, and some of the waitresses told me that it’s because he thinks I’m stalking him. I have heard this before a few times from other guys I like. I swear I am just being friendly. What is wrong with people? Why are they so mean? How should I show men I am interested in them?

Hannah

 

Dear Hannah:

If the word ‘stalker’ has been used to describe you a few times, then you have some social malfunctions going on. You are probably not able to read body language very well, and are coming on way too strong. If you are willing to really take a look at this, I have plenty to say on the subject, but this is not an adequate setting to have this sort of discussion. Call my office if you’d like to see me privately.

This is a very important issue, and I hope you will address it quickly. Be careful, until you get this sorted out.

Danice Akiyoshi, N.D.

 

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.

Depression

BY NANCY STOOPS

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

Do you seem to be always sleeping or not able to sleep at all? Are you eating everything in sight or suffer from no appetite at all. Have you lost pleasure in doing the things that once made you so happy? Are you unable to focus and concentrate? If you are able to answer yes to the questions above, you may be suffering from some type of depression.

Depression comes in many forms. Dysthymic Disorder is a very mild form of depression. People suffering from this are very functional but just don’t feel happy. People suffering from severe depression aren’t very functional and need to be treated. Severe depression can lead to suicide and must be taken seriously.

Bipolar Disorder involves a cycle of very manic moods and then a fall into a very severe depression. Many times the mania is accompanied by severe spending or some other risk taking behavior. People suffering from Bipolar Disorder need to be on medication. There are subtypes within these main categories that I won’t expand upon.

Depression comes from a lack of serotonins, a chemical produced in the brain. Many people choose to take a pill that will put the serotonins you are lacking back into your body. Exercise is also a great way to increase your body’s serotonins and to do it in a natural way. Many of my clients are asked to keep a daily feelings journal as a way to help combat their depression as well.

Don’t let your depression or the depression of a loved one become a way of life. Everybody should be able to feel joy, and depression stops us from doing that. Take the time to journal, exercise and possibly get some professional help so you can feel the joy in your life.

This article was written by Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T. Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist. She runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens. For more information about any of these services feel free to page her at (626) 935-3818. You may also email her at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net. Nancy’s book, “Live, Heal and Grow” is available for purchase at http://www.RoseDogBookstore.com or Amazon.com

Eastvale: City Council July Recap

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL AND TIANA GOEGEBUER

Eastvale – The Eastvale Town Hall Meeting took place on Tues., July 29 at Rosa Parks Elementary. Various agencies within our community attended and gave updates concerning their respective departments.

The Meeting was emceed by Kathy Bogart of JCSD. After the Pledge of Allegiance, Mayor Ike Bootsma gave an update on the City. According to Bootsma, there will be a special session City Council meeting on Wed., Aug. 6, 6:30 p.m., at Rosa Parks Elementary. The meeting will be held to interview the 14 candidates for the vacant council position. A candidate will be chosen that same night.

Eastvale also launched the “E-Citizen” app, where residents can report graffiti and code enforcements issues, citing a specific geographical location.

The Mayor invited the City to attend the upcoming National Night Out on August 12. This is a collaboration between local law enforcement, fire fighters and other agencies, and will be held in the Eastvale Gateway shopping center parking lot by Target.

Eastvale now officially owns the land for the future Fire Station #2, as ownership was successfully transferred over from Riverside County. The Mayor also announced the realignment of Schleisman Avenue and a new traffic signal.

The Leal Property continues to move forward with an environmental report expected in late August. The Goodman-Bircher Project should be back on the council agenda in October.

San Antonio Hospital Medical Center is expected to open in late 2014, as well as few other local businesses.

Tyler Madary, a field rep from Senator Roth’s office, announced that his office has been eagerly working on SB 69 to restore funding to newly incorporated cities like Jurupa Valley, Eastvale, Wildomar, etc. Although the assembly is on summer break, he is hopeful that the bill be passed by the Assembly and then passed on concurrence from the Senate. The bill will go in front of the Governor on August 8 and the office remains “very optimistic that Governor Brown will sign it”.

The newest addition to Eastvale’s Police Department, Lt. Evan Petersen – who recently took over Lt. Michael Yates position – gave an update on crime and safety in Eastvale. Most of the crime statistics have stayed the same as last quarter, but there was a slight raise in robberies. Car burglaries continue to be mostly “crimes of opportunity” with people continuing to leave valuables in their vehicles out in the open. Most break-ins, in both homes and vehicles, continue to occur Tuesdays through Fridays, between the hours of 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Eastvale has had approximately 13,886 calls for service this year so far, as well as 4,121 traffic and parking violations, 24 DUI arrests, 30 injury accidents, 64 non-injury accidents and 2 fatal accidents (both fatalities were DUI related). Response times for the Riverside Sheriff’s Department continue to improve, ranging from 5.5 to 20 minutes depending on the priority of the call. At this time last year we had 31 indoor marijuana grow houses, whereas at this point we have had only ten. This does not mean we have got them all, it just means that all the work the residents, the City and the Sheriff’s Department are doing is having a positive effect on lowering the number.

Bill Newberry, from the CNUSD School Board, announced that the district has approved a separate Sheriff’s patrol officer for the Eastvale Middle and Elementary schools starting this school year. This will free up other officers from the Eastvale Police Department and alleviate some of the school related calls. The district continues to make progress on Yorba Elementary, which should be open by fall 2015, as well as the purchase of a site for elementary school number seven, which would realistically open in six to eight years. The district has also been working on the alleviation of school overcrowding by more careful planning for the future. At this time, all of the schools in Eastvale have room for students. With a few exceptions, the number of children being bused outside of their home school has greatly diminished. When Yorba opens it will relieve Barton and Rosa Parks elementary schools of about 700 students. Boundaries for the elementary schools will need to be redrawn and residents should expect to see this item discussed more clearly early next year. New Asst. Superintendent, Mike Cobarrubias, announced that CNUSD has been working on establishing an Emergency Operations Center to help keep the 54,000 students and 5,000 employees of the district safe.

Ric Welch, Parks Director at JCSD said they will continue to hold their very successful Concerts in the Park through August. They will also be releasing information about Movies in the Park soon. Visit http://www.parks.jcsd.us for more information about upcoming community events.

Jackie Williams, Battalion Chief from CAL FIRE/Riverside County Fire Department’s Eastvale Station, announced that medical calls continue to be the station’s highest number of calls for service. She also reminded the community to be alert and watch children when they swim as drowning can occur very quickly. There is also an Arson Hotline that you can call to report arson anonymously, (800) 633-2836. Chief Williams hopes to see everyone at the National Night Out, and is excited for the community to see all the different fire trucks, Haz Mat, and all the equipment that they use.

The July 9 City Council meeting was attended by council members William Link and Ric Welch, as well as Mayor Pro Tem Adam Rush and Mayor Ike Bootsma. The invocation was led by Eastvale Police Captain Jason Horton, who also introduced new Lieutenant, Evan Peterson. Shirley Zink gave a presentation on Simple Acts of Kindness World Youth, who will be hosting an anti-bullying and depression event on July 17. Sharon Link then proceeded to give an update on the current projects and progress being made by the Eastvale Community Foundation.

During the Public Comment/Citizen Participation portion of the meeting, a citizen came forward to talk about a festival that their business will be putting on at the Mid-Hill Golf Center on Aug. 2. The festival will focus on showing appreciation for the people who keep the City of Eastvale safe, including but not limited to police officers, firemen, and members of the Public Safety Commission. The festival will be open to the public.

All items on the Consent Calendar were approved, 4-0.

There were no Public Hearings or Old Business Items, so the meeting progressed to the New Business portion. The New Business Items were as follows: 8.1 – Project Management Services approved 4-0 for the budget adjustment amount, and to appoint Bob Williamson to help manage the Fire Station No. 2 project; 8.2 – Options for Filling the Vacancy for the Unexpired Term of Former Councilmember DeGrandpre, voted 3-1 to appoint a new council member to fill the vacancy before the November elections; 8.3 – Approval of a Resolution Calling and Giving Notice of a General Municipal Election was removed from the Agenda based on the results of the previous item.

The City Manager did not give a report, and the meeting adjourned at 7:30 p.m. with closing statements from the Council.

The July 23 meeting was attended by council members William Link and Ric Welch, as well as Mayor Pro Tem Adam Rush and Mayor Ike Bootsma. The invocation was led by Pastor Dennis Morales from Calvary Chapel. Eastvale Police Captain Jason Horton presented Lt. Michael Yates with an award, and Melody Cruise updated the Council on the status of projects for the Public Safety Commission.

During the Public Comment/Citizen Participation portion of the meeting, Hari Dhiman gave an update on the upcoming safety expo that will take place on August 2, and Caesar Morales discussed some possibilities of beautifying the vacant lots around the City.

There were no Public Hearings or Old Business Items, so the meeting moved on to the New Business Items. The New Business Items were as follows: 8.1 – Resolution Authorizing Acceptance of Deeds or Grants of Interests or Easements in Real Property, passed 4-0; and 8.2 – Cash Account Application, Non-Corporate Resolution Form for Multi-Bank Securities, passed 4-0.

The City Manager did not give a report, and the meeting adjourned at 7 p.m. with closing statements from the Council.

 

 

It’s a Good Day

BY PASTOR DENNIS MORALES

“This is the day the LORD has made; we will rejoice and be glad in it.” (Psalm 118:24)

Pastor Dennis Morales Calvary Chapel CrossBridge

Pastor Dennis Morales

How was your day today? For some, today was a good day. When I get to spend quality time with my wife and boys, I consider it a great day. Or, maybe a great day is the start of a vacation.

Some days are challenges. I don’t have to share that these are some challenging days we live in. There is drought, doubt, debt, division, and distress all around us. I can even have a tendency to bring stress on my own day. I can be standing in the line that says “15 items or less,” and there I’ll be, counting everyone’s items in front of me, and heaping stress upon my day.

Psalm 118 assures us that God is with us and He is for us despite what the day may hold. God made today for you to experience Him. This is a day to know that God is with you in the midst of challenge (118:5), that He is your strength (118:14); and most importantly, that God is your salvation (118:14).

The people sang and rejoiced as Jesus entered into Jerusalem. They were rejoicing because they thought Jesus would rule an earthly kingdom, which wasn’t the case. He would be crucified shortly thereafter. What Jesus desires is to reign in people’s hearts. If Jesus is in your heart today, whatever today would hold, you can rejoice.

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30 a.m., at Clara Barton Elementary (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale). Visit their website at http://www.CalvaryEastvale.org.