Eastvale: City Council March Recap 2014

BY TIANA GOEGEBUER 

 

Eastvale – This month there were two City Council meetings.  At the March 12 meeting, Council Members Ric Welch, Jeff DeGrandpre, and Bill Link, Mayor Ike Bootsma and Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush were present.  The invocation was led by Pastor Sam Tanner with Life Church.

 

There were no Presentations, Announcements, or Public Comments.

 

All Items on the Consent Calendar were approved, 5-0.

 

There were no Public Hearings or Old Business Items, so the meeting continued on to New Business Items, as follows:

 

8.1:  School Liaison to City Council was approved 5-0; 8.2:  Selection of Anderson Penna, Consultant for Engineering Design Services, was approved 5-0; 8.3:  A Study Session was requested and approved 5-0 for the 2014-15 Fiscal Year Goal Setting Budget; 8:4:  Review of Expense Policy Reimbursement was approved 4-1, with DeGrandpre voting against; and 8:5:  Attendance at the International Conference of Shopping Centers (ICSC) was approved 4-0-1, with DeGrandpre abstaining.

 

In the City Managers Report, Carol Jacobs reminded the Council that they need to select a Planning Commissioner for the Economic Development Committee, as well as formally reappoint the Public Safety Committee.

During Council Communications, the Planning Commission and the Public Safety Commission’s attendance was requested at the next meeting, as well as an ‘after-action’ report on the robbery/dog shooting that recently occurred with Animal Services.

The meeting adjourned at 7:45 p.m.

 

At the March 26 meeting, Council Members Ric Welch, Jeff DeGrandpre, and Bill Link were present, with Mayor Ike Bootsma running the meeting; Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush was absent.  The invocation was led by Pastor Rick Morris with The Crossings Church.

 

There was a presentation by Melonee Cruse on behalf of the Public Safety Commission.

 

All items on the Consent Calendar were approved 4-0-1.

 

There were no Public Hearings or Old Business Items.  The New Business Items were as follows:

 

8.1: The motion to continue the appointment of the Planning Commissioner to the Economic Development Committee.  Dr. Albert Randall was recommended, and was approved 4-0-1; 8.2: The motion to appoint Council Member Ric Welch and Jennifer Rodriguez to the Eastvale Community Foundation Board of Directors was approved 4-0-1; 8.3: The discussion on The Leal Specific Plan was approved to be continued to a later date 4-0-1.

 

In the City Managers Report, there was a reminder that the State of City Address would be on March 27.  In the Council Communications section, the Limonite off-ramp discussion involving Link, and other members of the council was mentioned; and a recommendation to investigate and modify laws concerning marijuana use in vapor cigarettes was mentioned by Council Member Bill Link.

The meeting was adjourned at 6:42 p.m.

 

Diamond Bar: Council Corner – Gridlock Fix

Diamond Bar City HallBY ARIEL CARMONA JR.

Diamond Bar – On their meeting April 1, the Diamond Bar City Council heard an update from City staff on a $256 million multi-phase project designed to improve the existing 57/60 freeway interchange bottleneck, and also received an update on the Grand Avenue Beautification project, estimated at more than $1 million.

According to information provided by City staff, the 2.5 mile interchange stretch where the 57 and 60 freeways meet, ranks as the third most congested in California, and seventh worst in the nation. With funding from the Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) and the City of Industry, the project will be completed in three phases based upon the results of a feasibility study completed in 2008 to evaluate fixes and improvements.

The first phase consists of construction of a $16. 6 million westbound on-ramp at Grand Avenue, estimated to start in November 2015. Phase 2A consists of a fully funded $14 million street widening improvement in the vicinity of Grand Avenue and Golden Springs Drive.  Phase 2B is the construction of a $20 million westbound freeway off-ramp and an auxiliary lane to Grand Avenue.  And the final phase consists of freeway mainline improvements and bypass connectors valued at more than $200 million, with an environmental impact report certified last December.

According to a presentation by City staff, because the freeways were built in the early 70s, the forced merging of the two major freeways was made necessary by the valley shaped terrain dividing the area. At present, hundreds of thousands of drivers struggle through the confluence every day struggling to deal with all the lane merging required by a design that is almost 40 years old.

The presentation also stated that the results are “unacceptable levels of congestion, accidents and air pollution.  The 57/60 confluence is a vital link in Southern California’s transportation network. Every year more than 100 million commercial and private vehicles pass through, as does $375 billion worth of goods going through to the Los Angeles area. However, almost 80 percent of those goods are consumed outside of Southern California which means that the problems caused by this stretch of roadway impact not just local and regional tax payers and businesses, but also interstate commerce on a state and national level.”

According to a report made public by David Liu, Director of Public Works, the cost of missing components to the project include freeway connectors, and High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) connectors totaling more than $500 million, which are contingent on additional resources and funds. To date, staff has secured a $100,000 grant from Caltrans and other partners to fund an updated feasibility study valued between $300,000 and $400,000.

Members of the Council and City staff met with U.S. Secretary of Transportation, Anthony Foxx, and other dignitaries on March 21 to personally inspect the area and to make the federal government aware of the problem.

“We are trying to stress to the representatives across the nation, that this isn’t just a Diamond Bar problem, a San Gabriel Valley problem, or a California problem; this is a problem for the rest of the nation.  The longer it (goods) gets held up here in this choke point, the longer it takes to get to its destination and the more expensive the goods will be.  They understand that and hopefully the funding will come soon and we can get to work on fixing it,” said Mayor Carol Herrera.

In other matters, the Council heard a presentation regarding an update on the Grand Avenue Beautification project, which among other improvements to the City, will include streetscape enhancements to the intersections at Grand Avenue, Diamond Bar Boulevard, and Longview Drive.

On March 19, the City conducted an Open House for the community of residents and local business owners to learn more about the project. According to the presentation, a total of 53 attendees, including 40 residents, participated to provide input on the design concepts.

Residents surveyed voted for the inclusion of decorative street lights and traffic signal lights, and also requested pedestrian safety improvements at crosswalks including upgraded pedestrian crossing signage with countdown indicators and audio enhancements for the visually impaired, and more landscape improvements. Construction for the project is expected to be completed by December of this year.

During the City Manager’s report portion of the meeting, the Council heard a presentation on cyber crime by Mark Stevens from the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department warning residents to be aware of the various types of cyber crime including hacking, identity theft and medical ID theft, among others.

The Council also voted 5-0 to approve a packed consent calendar which included their Treasurer’s statement from the Finance Department, and an authorization for City Manager, James DeStefano, to extend vendor services for entertainment related activities in an amount not to exceed $30,000 for the City’s 25th Birthday Party, scheduled for April 12.

The next meeting of the Diamond Bar City Council is scheduled for Tuesday, April 15, 6:30 p.m., at the AQMD/Government Center Auditorium, 21865 Copley Drive.

 

Eastvale 4-2014

The Eastvale Community News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco, and Corona. Click this link 4-2014EastvaleAll and access the complete April issue in pdf format.

Eastvale/Norco/Corona: Community Events

UPCOMING EVENTS:

• Norco Senior Excursion to Claremont Village Shopping and Dining

When: April 9, with departure at 10 a.m.

Cost: Admission and transportation free

Details: Sign up at the Rose M. Eldridge Senior Center, 2690 Clark Avenue, Norco

For more information: Call (951) 270-5647.

• Eastvale Community Easter Egg Hunt

When: April 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Where: Mid Hill Golf Center, 13000 Citrus Avenue, Eastvale

Details: Join in the fun including children’s crafts, hay rides, raffles, inflatable obstacle course, free games with prizes, pictures with the Easter Bunny, and free Easter Egg Hunts for all ages throughout the day.

For more information: (909) 465-9700.

• Norco Senior Excursion to Fullerton Arboretum

When: April 16, with departure at 9 a.m.

Cost: Admission is $6 and transportation is free

Details: Sign up at the Rose M. Eldridge Senior Center, 2690 Clark Avenue, Norco

For more information: Call (951) 270-5647.

• 4th Annual Intergenerational Garden Show

When: April 17 from 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Where: Rose M. Eldridge Senior Center, Norco

Cost: $2 per general entry, $1 for seniors.

Details: The show is open to all gardeners, ages 3 to senior. There will be categories for arrangements, single blossoms of all kinds, any vegetables grown at home, in a community or senior garden, and “Grands,” which are flowers or vegetables grown by grandparents and grandchildren together.

For more information: Call (951) 270-5647.

• Norco Senior Excursion to Pechanga Casino and Resort

When: April 30, with departure at 9 a.m.

Cost: Admission and transportation free

Details: Sign up at the Rose M. Eldridge Senior Center, 2690 Clark Avenue, Norco

For more information: Call (951) 270-5647.

 

WEEKLY EVENTS:

• Kids Eat Free every Sunday at Dickey’s Barbeque Pit, located at 12569 Limonite Ave, Suite 330, Eastvale. For more information: Call (951) 360-9700.

• Kids Eat Free every Tuesday at Johnny Rockets, located at 12303 Limonite Ave #740, Eastvale. For more information: Call (951) 681-0061.

• Taco Tuesday at On the Border, located at 12269 Limonite Ave, Mira Loma. For more information: Call (951) 727-0047.

• Wine Down Wednesday at Johnny Carino’s located at 12447 Limonite, Mira Loma. For more information: Call (951) 360-9850.

• Farmers Market at The Shoppes at Chino Hills every Wednesday from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m.

• BINGO at Eleanor Roosevelt High School every Wednesday from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m.

• Corona Certified Farmers Market every Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Main and Rincon Streets.

• Daily senior, student and military discounts at the Eastvale Edwards Theater located at 12285 Limonite Ave, Mira Loma. Call (951) 361-9177 for more info.

 

MONTHLY MEETINGS:

• Eastvale City Council: 2nd and 4th Wednesday of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Rosa Parks Elementary 13830 Whispering Hills Dr., Eastvale. Visit www.EastvaleCA.gov for more info.

• Eastvale Planning Commission: 3rd Wednesday of every month at 6 p.m. at Rosa Parks Elementary, 13830 Whispering Hills Dr., Eastvale. Visit www.EastvaleCA.gov for more info.

• Jurupa Community Service District (JCSD) Board Meetings: 2nd & 4th Monday of every month at 7 p.m. at JCSD Offices, 11201 Harrel Street, Mira Loma, CA 91752. Visit www.jcsd.us for more info.

• Jurupa Community Service District (JCSD) Citizens Advisory Board Meetings: 3rd Thursday of every month at 6:30 p.m. Visit http://parks.jcsd.us for more info.

• Eastvale Chamber of Commerce Breakfast Networking & Mixers: Visit www.eastvalechamberofcommerce.org for dates and times.

•Corona-Norco Unified School District Board Meetings: 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month at 5:30 p.m. at the CNUSD offices, 2820 Clark Ave., Norco. Visit http://www.cnusd.k12.ca.us for more info.

• Eastvale Kiwanis Meetings: 1st and 3rd Monday of every month from 6 p.m. – 7 p.m. at the Eastvale Public Library, 7447 Scholar Way, Corona, CA 92880.

• Norco City Council: 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. at Norco City Council Chambers, 2820 Clark Ave., Norco. Visit www.ci.norco.ca.us for more info.

• Norco Planning Commission: 2nd and last Wednesday at 7 p.m. in the Norco City Council Chambers, 2820 Clark Ave., Norco. Visit www.ci.norco.ca.us for more info.

• Norco Area Chamber of Commerce General Membership Meeting: http://www.NorcoAreaChamber.org

• Norco/Eastvale Rotary: Every Thursday at 7:15 a.m. at Cowgirl Café, 2859 Hamner, Norco. Visit www.norcorotary.org for more info.

• Norco Kiwanis Meeting: Every Wednesday, 7 a.m. at Polly’s Pies, 1799 Hamner Avenue, Norco. Visit www.norcokiwanis.org for more info.

• Norco Lions General Meeting: 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month at 7 p.m. at Norco Lions Club, 1245 Sixth St., Norco. Visit www.norcolionsclub.com for more info.

• Norco Horseman’s Assoc. General Meeting: 3rd Thurs. of EVERY month at 7pm at Hidden Valley Golf Club, 10 Clubhouse Dr., Norco. Visit http://www.nha-norco.org for more info.

• RURAL Meeting: 4th Thurs. of EVERY month at 7 p.m. Call (951) 734-5081 for details or visit: rural-norco.com/meetings.htm.

• Corona City Council: 1st and 3rd Wed. of every month at 6:30 p.m. at Corona City Council Chambers, 400 S. Vicentia Ave., Corona. Visit www.ci.corona.ca.us for more info.

• Toastmasters Club 55: Every Tuesday from 7 p.m. – 8:45 p.m. at 502 S. Vicentia, Corona City Gym 2nd floor.

EASTVALE: Lopez Charged with Kidnapping and Attempted Murder

INFORMATION COURTESY OF RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT. PRESS RELEASE

On Saturday, April 5, 2014, at 12:30 a.m., officers assigned to the city of Eastvale responded to the area of Burrage St. and Rolling Meadows St., Eastvale, regarding the report of gunshots.  Upon arrival officers located evidence that indicated someone was possibly shot and injured at that location.  Within a few minutes, they received information that an adult female suffering from several gunshot wounds was dropped off in front of a local hospital.  Officers discovered the female was shot by her estranged boyfriend, Alfredo Lopez Jr., a 33-year-old resident of Eastvale.  After the shooting, Lopez drove the victim to a local hospital, where he dropped her off outside the front door and fled the area in his vehicle.

Investigators assigned to the city of Eastvale were called in to assume control of the investigation.  Investigators received information that Lopez was in Los Angeles County and law enforcement agencies throughout Southern California were notified of this incident.  At approximately 7:05 a.m., a Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Deputy spotted Lopez driving in the city of Hawaiian Gardens. When the deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Lopez’ vehicle, Lopez failed to yield and a pursuit was initiated.  Lopez’ vehicle became disabled and he stopped in a parking lot near the intersection of Carson St. and Norwalk Blvd., Hawaiian Gardens.  Lopez barricaded himself inside his vehicle and he refused to exit for several hours.  At approximately 2:45 p.m., Lopez exited his vehicle and was placed under arrest.

Lopez was turned over to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department and transported back to Riverside County for further investigation. He was later booked into Robert Presley Detention Center for kidnapping and attempted murder.

This investigation is ongoing and anyone with additional information is asked to contact Investigator Aaron Rico at the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

Walnut: Voters Flooded With Attack Ads Prior To City Election

By Michael Armijo

Walnut – With the Walnut City Council race nearing Election Day this coming Tuesday, April 8, the registered voters of Walnut are being flooded with not only the usual political advertising from the candidates, but also attack ads that are targeting the three candidates found on the ballot – Councilwoman Mary Su, Councilman Bob Pacheco and challenger Betty Tang.

Two political organizations are sponsoring these attack ads.  One of the organizations is Citizens to Protect Walnut, led by long-time Walnut resident, Phillip Bennett.  Bennett’s organization has been active in the last three Walnut City Council races.   The second group mailing out political “hit pieces” calls itself, “Taxpayers for Quality Leadership.”

According to their information on the Fair Political Practices Commission website (FPPC.ca.gov), Taxpayers for Quality Leadership (FPPC ID1361185) was established on October 7, 2013 and is controlled by Lisa Buchanan of Elk Grove, a suburb in Sacramento.  The PAC’s Treasurer is lawyer Gary Crummitt, who has an office in Long Beach.  Telephone messages left for Buchanan and Crummitt by our staff, asking why their political action committee was interested in the Walnut City Council election, have gone unanswered.

The campaign literature being distributed by Citizens to Protect Walnut has specialized in negative literature targeting candidate Tang, but it has also been sending out rebuttals to the attacks on Council Member Mary Su that have been sponsored by Taxpayers for Quality Leadership.  When asked why he was so involved in this year’s Walnut City Council race, Bennett replied,  “I think Mary Su and Bob Pacheco are doing a fine job, and for some reason there seems to be a lot of outside money involved in this year’s election.  I want to make sure Walnut remains in the hands of people who actually live here.”

Attack ads distributed by Taxpayers for Quality Leadership have so far only targeted Council Member Su, despite the fact that Su and Pacheco are sharing a campaign office and made it clear they are running as a team.  Asked why she felt she is the only incumbent councilmember being attacked by Taxpayers for Quality Leadership, Su said, “I can only assume there is someone with access to lots of money who is determined to remove me from office for their own political reasons, but that person is afraid to be openly associated with it.  If my enemy is from the Chinese community they know very well that most of the Chinese community will immediately turn on them if their identity becomes known.”

And a lot of money it appears to be. According to the City of Walnut website, Betty Tang’s campaign contributions are now up to $96,937. This is the current total even after Tang returned five campaign contributions she received illegally (see www.anapr.com for related stories). But interestingly enough, Tang loaned her campaign $15,000, which leaves $81,000 worth of contributions. Of that $81,000, almost 80% are from addresses outside of Walnut. In addition to the $81,000, the outside group, Taxpayers for Quality Leadership, has contributed almost $11,000 in spending against Tang’s opponents.

Other interesting tidbits about Taxpayers for Quality Leadership: According to the FPPC, the committee also filed two 462 “Verification of Independent Expenditures” reports on Oct. 22, 2013, citing their support/opposition for candidates. In the first report, Michael Lewis signed both documents stating “in support of Margaret Finlay, Tzeitel Paras-Caracci, and Sheryl Lefmann for City Council Member for the City of Duarte,” and “in opposition of Phil Reyes,” for the same November 2013 election. The report also states “in support of Cary C. Chen and Lynne Ebenkamp for Board Member for Roland Unified School District,” (http://fppc.ca.gov/form462/2013/city/1361185_10222013.pdf). Why this group has an interest in Walnut remains unanswered.

Election Day is this Tuesday, April 8.  Be sure to make an educated decision and vote for those who you feel would best represent you as a resident.

Eastvale: Man Who Shot Woman in Custody

Man Suspected of Shooting female in Eastvale early on April 5 (Photo Courtesy: Facebook)

Man Suspected of Shooting female in Eastvale early on April 5
(Photo Courtesy: Facebook)

By Michael Armijo 

UPDATED 4 pm 4/5/14: Just before 7 a.m. authorities spotted the suspect’s white Dodge  driving around and tried to initiate a stop. The suspect failed to yield and eventually parked his car in a strip mall parking lot, located at Norwalk Blvd. and Carson in the city of Hawaiian Gardens where he barricaded himself inside his white Dodge Magnum for seven hours. He was spotted by Sheriff’s Deputies when they went to the area to check for the suspect because his auto registration has a Hawaiian Gardens address. After Deputies tried to pull him over, they administered a “spike strip” and all four tires of the Dodge Magnum were deflated. The suspect refused to surrender and tear gas was used. After this was unsuccessful, a K9 was deployed. The standoff with Los Angeles County Sheriff ended with the suspect being taken into custody. He was treated for minor injuries and transported to a hospital, according to the Sheriff’s Department. The female victim is out of surgery and listed in stable condition. She is expected to survive. Update by Jennifer Madrigal  
Eastvale 7:49 am, 4/5/14– A man allegedly shot a woman early this morning and then drove her to the hospital, dropped her off, and fled, police say.“At about 12:30 am, officers from the Eastvale PD answered a call about an assault with a deadly weapon,” said Deputy Anthony Munoz, Public Information Officer for the Riverside Sheriff’s Department. “The suspect, a Hispanic male, allegedly shot a Hispanic female six times and dropped her off at a local hospital, then fled.” The incident happened early this morning, Sat. April 5, 2014, near Rolling Meadow Street and Burrage Street, Munoz said. The area is south west of Limonite and Harrison, and no other injuries were reported. The names of the victim and the suspect was not released yet, and their maritial status was unknown,  but they did have two kids together, Munoz said. “The suspect is considered armed and dangerous, and he fled in a white Dodge. Since the investigation is ongoing, we will have more information later and a press release will be issued,” Munoz said.

 

Easter. Fact.

 

By Pastor Tim Eaton

If Easter is new to you, the bunny who lays eggs may seem very strange indeed. If going to church on Easter Sunday is one of your family traditions, it may seem to be nothing more than just that: a quaint holiday tradition. But, if on the first Easter a man rose from the dead, just as he said he would, it would be stranger than a bunny laying eggs and the start of the most powerful tradition in history.

In his testimony, one of Jesus’ followers named Peter, says this: “For we did not follow cleverly devised stories when we told you about the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ in power, but we were eyewitnesses of his majesty,” (2 Peter 1:16).

You may note that the above quote is from the Bible. No matter, history records the life of Jesus outside of the Bible as well. Consider these two examples: The Roman Emperor, Nero, blamed the fire of Rome in the year 64 on followers of the one called Christ. The first Easter was just 31 years earlier. Perhaps even more convincing is the major change of life patterns after Jesus rose from the dead. Faithful Jewish people stopped worshiping on Saturday, as they had done for thousands of years, and instead began to worship on Sunday – the day Jesus rose from the dead.

How will the facts of Easter change your life? Join us as we give thanks for the price Jesus paid with a moving service on Good Friday, April 18, at 7 p.m.; and then join us this Easter Sunday, April 20, at 10 a.m. as we rejoice in the fact of Easter; Jesus is ALIVE!

Edgewater Lutheran Church

Sundays at 10 a.m.

Worshipping at Harada Elementary

12884 Oakdale Street

Eastvale, CA 92880

http://www.EdgewaterLutheran.org

CHINO/ONTARIO: Serial Burglars Strike Restaurants Again

Photo Courtesy: City of Chino Anyone with information about the suspect shown above is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

Photo Courtesy: City of Chino
Anyone with information about the suspect shown above is asked to contact the Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

serial burglar picture1

 

Staff Reports

Chino/Ontario – Three more local restaurants have been struck by serial burglars this week, making a total of 16 since last year.

On March 31, between 3:45 a.m. to 4:30 a.m., windows were smashed and small restaurants were burglarized, including Nick’s Pizzeria, located at 4125 Riverside Drive in Chino, Sonora’s Restaurant, located at 11738 Central Avenue in Chino, and Dragon Loco, located at 2509 South Euclid in Ontario.

There have been 16 similar burglaries of small restaurants that have occurred in the cities of Chino, Chino Hills, and Ontario since early last November, according to the City of Chino. Detectives believe that all of the burglaries are connected and are asking the community for help in identifying the suspect.

Surveillance footage taken from various crime scenes was able to film the suspect, who is believed to be a Hispanic male, approximately 5’-10” tall. Police believe he may also be working with a partner.

The Chino Police Department is asking the public to look closely at the recent photos taken from the video surveillance cameras and contact the Chino Police if you have any information related to the burglaries or the suspect.

The Chino Police Department can be reached at (909) 628-1234. Photos can also be seen online at www.cityofchino.org.

Corona: Corona PD Targets Adults Buying Alcohol for Minors

By Tiana Goegebuer

Corona – The City of Corona is making use of the state funding it receives from the California Department of Alcoholic Beverage Control, as well as other sources, in order to conduct Decoy Shoulder Tap Operations locally. “Shoulder Tap” is the term used by law enforcement to describe a situation in which a minor waits by a store that sells alcohol and asks a passing adult to do them a “favor”. The favor usually involves the adult purchasing a six-pack of beer, a bottle of wine (or something even stronger), who is then paid by the waiting minor.

Last month on a Saturday evening, teens were placed at eight locations in Corona for the operation. The Decoy Shoulder Tap Operation was carried out much like that of a scripted play on the part of law enforcement. The location choices are influenced by previous customer complaints or infractions involving alcohol. A minor – who is either a local teen or police cadet – stands by the front door of the store and waits for a customer to walk by. The teen’s job is to make it clear to the customer that he or she is underage but would like to purchase some alcohol from them. If the customer takes the minor’s money and buys the liquor, an undercover officer is waiting to issue a citation.

Of the 56 customers contacted by the minors, four adults agreed to purchase the alcohol. The minimum penalty for each of the cited adults is a $1,000 fine, 24 hours of community service work, and an appearance in court to answer for the charges.  

Jurupa Valley: Good Samaritian Killed, 2 others injured

RIVERSIDE COUNTY SHERIFF’S DEPARTMENT PRESS RELEASE

On April 03, 2014, at 7:23 a.m., officers from the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to a vehicle vs. pedestrian collision at Riverview Dr. south of Mission Blvd. in the city of Jurupa Valley.

Police officers and emergency medical personnel arrived on scene and pronounced one pedestrian deceased and transported two other pedestrians via ambulance to a local community hospital for non-life-threatening injuries. The Jurupa Valley Station Traffic Reconstruction Team responded and assumed the investigation.

Preliminary investigation revealed that a collision occurred between a pickup and a utility truck in the #2 northbound lane of Riverview Dr. south of Mission Blvd.  Immediately after the collision, three good samaritans ran towards the pickup to render aid to the driver still sitting in the vehicle.  As the three stood next to the pickup, another vehicle traveling northbound on Riverview Dr. hit the three pedestrians and clipped the left rear of the pickup.  There are no indications that alcohol played a factor in this collision. The intersection remained closed for approximately 8 hours, while the investigation was conducted. The name of the deceased is being withheld pending notification of next of kin.

The investigation is continuing. Anyone that may have witnessed the collision or has further information is asked to call the Jurupa Valley Police Department Traffic Division at (951) 955-2600.

Pomona: 7-Year Old Hit by Pick-Up Truck in Pomona

 

By Tiana Goegebuer

A 7-year old girl is in critical condition after being hit by a pick-up truck in Pomona. The accident occurred on Sunday, March 30 at an intersection just east of San Antonio Ave. The victim and her older sister began crossing the street at about 6:45 p.m., and a dark colored sedan yielded for them.

A Ford F-150 truck was behind the sedan, and the driver decided to maneuver to the right, going around the stopped sedan. While passing the sedan, the truck hit the little girl. She was admitted to a local hospital in critical condition, suffering from multiple head and chest injuries. The name of the girl has not been released.

The driver of the F-150 was an unlicensed 52-year old woman. Police say that she has been cooperative with the investigation, and do not believe that alcohol was not involved in the incident. The sedan’s driver left the scene before he or she could be interviewed.

Weird is Rad

 

jennifer stock photo

By Jennifer Madrigal

Dr. Seuss said it best when he said, “We’re all a little weird, and life’s a little weird. And when we find someone whose weirdness is compatible with ours, we join up with them and fall in mutual weirdness and call it love.” Being different or looking at things in a different way isn’t always bad; in fact it’s very often refreshing. In a world where everyone strives to be the “winner” or the best at everything, the ones who are weird tend to stick out and you know what? That’s okay. It’s alright to be different and unique. In fact, it’s inspiring when someone isn’t like everyone else and instead has qualities that make them stand out.

First and foremost, in anything you do, be confident about it. Own it, be it, embody it and make it your own. Being weird is no exception to this rule. Be the delightfully chaotic individual that you are and stand out in a crowd. Let people talk about you, whisper behind your back and think whatever they want. You know the truth anyway, and that is really all that matters.

I have had this exact conversation frequently with my boys. Usually it begins with, “He said I was stupid!” And my response is always, “Well, are you stupid? “ The point of this being, who cares what people say? You know what you are and what you are not. If another person says you are purple, does that make it so? Who cares what people say about your hair or how you look or even how you act? You know the truth. In fact, you should know this better than anyone else. When you don’t respond to another’s negativity or false accusations, you take away their power to put their definitions on you.

Let others call you what they will. Be weird, be different, but most of all, be you; because at the end of the day, the people who are unapologetically themselves, and who stand out from others in their unique weirdness, are usually the ones that we all remember.

WV Board Appoints Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Dr. Matthew Witmer

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Dr. Matthew Witmer

Walnut – The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees approved Dr. Matthew Witmer as the new Assistant Superintendent of Educational Services during the February 19 meeting.

Dr. Witmer has a strong background in the area of curriculum and instruction, and has led the transition into Common Core State Standards. The veteran educator brings 18 years of experience to his new post, which he formally assumed on March 3.

“Dr. Witmer possesses the leadership qualities, technical knowledge of the position, and proven ability to perform effectively in this administrative role,” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor. “I look forward to working with Dr. Witmer. He will make a great addition to the Walnut Valley family,” he added.

Since 2012, Dr. Witmer served as Director of Educational Services in the Corona-Norco Unified School District (CNUSD). He was responsible for all areas of the division in the 54,000-student district. During his tenure, CNUSD was selected as a 2012 and 2013 finalist district of the Broad Prize for Urban Education.

Additionally, Dr. Witmer is an adjunct Professor of Educational Leadership at the University of California, Irvine Extension, and Azusa Pacific University. Prior to that, he worked as an associate professor, director, interim program director, principal, assistant principal, and teacher. Dr. Witmer received his Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Azusa Pacific University.

“The reputation of the Walnut Valley Unified School District has been outstanding for a long time, and I look forward to supporting our students’ learning and contributing to the district’s future success,” said Dr. Witmer.

 

I Know You’re Proud

 

By Michael Armijo

You know, I never really called him daddy. My sister did, and I always envied how he brought that up so many times. But now I can say, “I miss my daddy.” When he died something inside me died. I think it was the first time I realized that I was really on my own. I always felt that dad would “take me in” had I ever made a major mistake in life, had I lost everything and had no place to go. But that feeling is gone, I no longer have a ‘safety net’ in my life. He’s not there to “take me in” anymore. At that time I realized that there was no turning back.

I do miss him, despite the anger he carried and conveyed to me. But what I miss is his strength; and later, his encouragement. He always told me how he admired the way I took on the world if I had a dream. He always said I was so strong to make hard decisions and take action. He loved to watch me work. And he loved working with me. The funny thing is, now that he’s gone I don’t make hard decisions anymore. I don’t take action like I used to. Maybe I was showing off to daddy, trying to be the star above the other kids in our family. But my dad meant so much to all of us, we all tried so hard to be number one in our daddy’s eyes. And fortunately, we all got our turn to be number one. But I almost didn’t get my turn, being the youngest. I got my turn at the end of his life. Had I not confronted him five years before he died, had I not tried to get my turn at being the number one child, I never would’ve received my fifteen minutes of ‘family fame.’

In retrospect, our family never really communicated. I think this is why it took me so long to really get to know my father. It’s kind of strange, we really didn’t know what was deep inside daddy, but we needed to be recognized by him. It meant so much to us to be recognized by someone we often felt was a stranger. And I know that I kept many things to myself, holding many memories prisoner in my mind, and some in my heart, that I never shared with him. He did teach us that we had the ability to do whatever we wanted, but he never really taught us how to communicate. I believe we need clarity; this assures us of where we stand within our lives. We would then teach our children to understand the importance of expression, the importance of how to express our feelings.

When I expressed how I felt to my father, I found out why he treated us the way he did. When we discussed his life and what happened to him when he was a child, the abuse and the neglect he endured (and we ultimately inherited), we understood, together, what happened to him. And what happened to us. But we forgave and we healed. I became more of a complete person; I closed those rough chapters in my life. This is why I believe in the importance of the ‘healing power of expression.’

Although my dad and I became close friends and I got to know him on a personal level, there is something that I always wished he would’ve said to me, something I waited all my life to hear but never did. Something I know he died with, in his heart, but he never verbally gave to me. The five simple words, “I’m so proud of you.” That’s all I ever wanted to hear from my daddy, that’s the one thing that will always be a void at the corner of my soul.

I also realized something that I never thought of: I never told my dad that I was proud of him, either. I am left to wonder if he carried the same disappointment in his life, as I did with mine. But today, what keeps me going is the hope that he’s looking down upon me each day, watching what I do and how my time is being spent. And I believe that he can’t hear what I say, but instead, he can see what’s truly deep within my heart. And as the sun shines warm rays upon me and as the wind whispers through the trees, I can lift my head high and close my eyes and feel his joyous heart whisper that he is so very proud of me; and my heart silently whispers back, that I too, am very proud of him.

Walnut Council Corner

 

By Raymond Mendoza

Walnut – Wednesday’s City Council meeting was packed with presentations that included recognition for the City’s Neighborhood Watch captains, the business of the quarter, and Walnut’s title as Tree City USA.

City Council members started off the meeting by recognizing Walnut CrossFit as the business of the quarter, for its health impact as well as providing a quality institution.

“For this quarter we selected Walnut CrossFit and the owners,” Mayor Tony Cartagena said. “Walnut CrossFit has been in business for over four years and has grown tremendously; so much so that they’ve had to relocate to larger quarters four times.” Mayor Cartagena said the business has done a good job in providing a quality fitness center to Walnut residents of all ages.

The City Council then recognized more than 20 captains for Walnut’s Neighborhood Watch program and their service in helping to keep the city safe. Cartagena encouraged Walnut residents to join their local Neighborhood Watch, claiming that it is a fun hobby which yields a safe atmosphere. Each captain was given a water bottle and a certificate honoring their dedication.

Mayor Pro Tem Nancy Tragarz thanked the Neighborhood Watch captains for helping support the Walnut Sherriff’s Department in keeping the City safe, and wished that each block had a Neighborhood Watch captain.

Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department Captain Jeff Scroggin and Deputy Doug Daley were presented with shirts embroidered with the City of Walnut logo for their service to the City in cooperation with the Neighborhood Watch program.

“I’m finally official,” Daley joked as he opened his gift.

Walnut High School’s Science Olympiad Team attended the City Council meeting to be commended for winning second place at the Los Angeles County Science Olympiad Team Competition at Occidental College.

“By being on this team you’re building a solid foundation,” Cartagena said about the academic excellence that he expected from the nine students being commended.

Suzanne Middle School was also recognized during the meeting; however they were not in attendance.

After the presentations and public comment, City Council members approved the Feb. 26 Council minutes, as well as the two items on the consent calendar: Resolution No. 14-14, allowing the City of Walnut certain claims and demands in the amount of $828,033.12; and the request by Canning Hunger for a non-profit solicitation permit and waiver of the business license tax.

The City Council members then adjourned with plans to meet on April 9 at 7 p.m. in the City Council’s Chambers at 21201 La Puente Road.

EASTVALE: Here We Grow Again

 

eastvale park mayor addresses crowd

By K.P. Sander and Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – The brand new Eastvale Community Park opened on Saturday, March 8, to a crowd of excited Eastvale residents. Representatives from the Eastvale Mustangs JAAF and Cheer, AYSO Soccer, Empire Soccer, Chivas Soccer, CrossFit Eastvale, and many others came out to promote their businesses. JCSD had demonstrations from various programs going on which kept both children and adults actively engaged throughout the day. Even with the dreadful Santa Ana winds, the event was a success.

The 160-acre parcel on the northwest corner of Limonite and Hamner Avenues is the ‘Cat’s Pajamas’ right now as far as real estate goes in the City of Eastvale. The massive property, owned by Dairyman, Brad Leal, has been the focus of discussion by the City Council, and even Eastvale citizens. Further exploration of the vision for the Leal Property was to be addressed at the City Council meeting on March 26, but discussion on the Specific Plan was approved to be continued to a later date. Stay tuned.

Ponino’s Pizzarena (located in the Ralph’s shopping center next door to the newly opened Soccer Wearhouse) opened without fanfare on Thursday, March 13 so employees could get into top form prior to the grand opening – coming soon; however, feel free to stop in for some hot, cheesy pizza right now.

You may have noticed that the Auto Zone at Archibald and Schleisman is now open. Still to come in that shopping center is Starbucks (gotta have one on every corner, right?), Fantastic Sam’s, Mes Amies Hair and Nails, Dentistry with Nihar Tanna DDS, Juice It Up, and the Great Harvest Bread Company (if you are not familiar with this business, you are in for a real treat).

 

The City of Eastvale has so much to be proud of, and so much to look forward to. The City is working on entryway monuments and directional signs that will be a beautiful welcome for citizens and visitors in the future. Yorba Elementary is planning its grand opening for July 6, 2015. And our second fire station will benefit our City next year as well.

 

Eastvale: UNAUTHORIZED USE OF THE CITY SEAL OR LOGO IS PROHIBITED

Courtesy CITY OF EASTVALE

The City of Eastvale does not under any circumstance
authorize the use of the City seal, logo or inaugural logo for personal, business or private use. The City does not endorse any organization, entity (public or private) or business that is or has used the City seal, logo or inaugural logo without express, prior written consent by the City of Eastvale.
According to Municipal Code Section 1.02.040-050 adopted on April 24, 2013:
The official name for the city shall be the “City of Eastvale”, and constitutes and is adopted as the official name for the city. The name “Eastvale” shall also constitute a secondary official name for the city.
(a) The city seal, inaugural logo, logo, and official name, are for the exclusive use by the city, and their commissions, officials and employees, in the course and scope of their official
duties.
(b) No person shall use or allow to be used the official seal, inaugural logo, logo or official name of the city, or any cut, facsimile, or reproduction of said seal, or make or use any
design which is an imitation of said seal or of the design thereof, or which may be mistaken for the seal, inaugural logo or logo of this city or the design thereof, for malicious or commercial purposes, or for any purpose other than for city purposes or for the purposes of
any officer, board or department thereof, without the express prior written consent of the city council.
(c) The city council may authorize the use or reproduction thereof of the official seal, inaugural logo, logo or official name for commercial purposes or for any other use.
(d) A violation of any provision of this chapter or a failure to comply with any mandatory requirements of this chapter is subject to prosecution as a misdemeanor under this Code and may be enforced through criminal, civil, administrative, injunctive or other relief available by law. Criminal penalties for violations of the provisions of this chapter may result in up to a misdemeanor citation for each day in violation, punishable by a maximum
of one-year in jail and a $1,000.00 fine.
If you, your business or organization are currently using the city seal, inaugural logo and/or logo in the promotion of your business or organization whether in print or electronically without written
consent from the City of Eastvale, you are in violation of Eastvale Municipal Code Sec. 1.02.050 as previously described. To review this section of the municipal code, please visit:
http://library.municode.com/HTML/15015/level3/PTAGEOR_TIT1GEPR_CH1.02OFSEINLOLONA. html#PTAGEOR_TIT1GEPR_CH1.02OFSEINLOLONA_S1.02.050VI
Additional questions may be directed to the City’s Public Information Officer Michele Nissen at (951) 361-0900 X415.

Riverside Medical Clinic

BY: Staff Reports

Riverside Medical Clinic

Riverside Medical Clinic

Avoiding contagious diseases like the common cold, strep throat, and the flu are important to everyone. Here are five easy things you can do to fight the spread of infection.

  1. Wash your hands often. Use warm water and rub your hands for at least 15 seconds.
  2. Make sure health care providers clean their hands or wear gloves
  3. Cover Your Mouth and Nose
  4. If you are sick avoid close contact with others.
  5. Get shots to avoid disease and fight the spread of infection

Located here in Eastvale, the Riverside Medical Clinic makes it their continuing pledge to ensure that families in the Inland Empire have access to premier health care! At their Eastvale office, they have primary care providers for adults and children as well as a lab and imaging services.

If Riverside Medical Center is not currently caring for you and your family, they invite you to become a member of their family by giving them a call at 951-683-6370

More info at www.riversidemedicalclinic.com

Chino: Na Won’t Campaign For Supervisor Seat

 

Photo Courtesy: Google Images Chino Valley School Board Member, James Na

Photo Courtesy: Google Images
Chino Valley School Board Member, James Na

By Glenn Freeman

Chino – Although his name will appear on the June 3 Primary Ballot, Chino Valley School Board member, James Na, says he will not campaign for the Fourth District supervisor seat in San Bernardino County. The seat is being vacated by incumbent Gary Ovitt, who chose not to seek re-election.

Na took out nomination papers for the seat when the filing period opened on Feb. 10, but has since decided not to run. According to a report by the Chino Champion newspaper, Na said he made the decision after speaking with his pastor on March 20, deciding that “God’s intent” for him is to remain with the school board. “I love kids,” he told the newspaper. “I always get excited and joyful serving students and parents and teachers and staff members.”

The decision to not campaign for the Fourth District seat by Na essentially leaves the race between Ontario Councilman Paul Avila, Democratic Congresswoman Gloria Negrete McLeod, and Republican Assemblyman Curt Hagman. The seat represents Chino, Chino Hills, and Ontario.

In November 2010, Na led the push to have the “In God We Trust” motto displayed inside the county supervisor chambers, which the board approved in December 2010. At the time, Na told the Redlands Daily Facts he was acting on the dying wish of a friend, Chino Hills humanitarian Joyce Butler.

Na has been a board member of Chino Valley Unified School District since being elected in 2008. He says his plans are to continue serving on the school board.