Tag Archives: City of Eastvale

Council Recap

By Tiana Goegebuer

The August 10th, 2016 City Council Meeting was attended by Council members Clint Lorimore, Adam Rush, and Richard (Dickie) Simmons, as well as Mayor Pro Tem Joseph Tessari and Mayor Ike Bootsma.

Natalie Diaz, the Student Liaison from Eleanor Roosevelt High School, kicked off the meeting by presenting her report to the Council. She discussed the quickly-approaching first day of school and back to school nights, as well as the progress of the STEM program at ERHS.

In the Public Comment section of the meeting, a representative of Dr. Augustine Ramirez Intermediate School commented on the construction taking place near the campus. He expressed his appreciation to the city for doing a great job working with the schools and construction companies to make after school pick-ups as smooth as possible.

Both items on the Consent Calendar (6.1-6.2) were approved 5-0.

There were no Public Hearings, so the topic moved to 8.1. The Council discussed making recordings of each meeting available to the public via YouTube, Vimeo, or SoundCloud. Recordings of the meetings are currently available on the City website, but the new platform would allow listeners to toggle and listen to the portions of the meetings they would like to focus on, instead of having to listen to its entirety. Meaning, citizens who were unable to attend the meeting physically to would be able to hear the entire thing or just parts of it at their own discretion. The Council approved the use of YouTube as a platform to share the City Council Meetings 5-0.

The City Manager and Staff Members encouraged residents to attend Eastvale Day on September 10th at the LA County Fair. There will be an Eastvale Community Day parade at noon for which Eastvale Dignitaries will be in attendance, along with the 2016 Eastvale Community Hero, Jane Anderson. It was also discussed that the City had received a number of phone calls regarding the dead-end on Riverboat Drive, west of Hamner Avenue. The calls prompted the City to discuss looking into additional options that would alert drivers to the fact that it is not a through street.

The meeting ended with closing statements by the Council members.

The August 24th, 2016 City Council Meeting was attended by Council members Clint Lorimore, Adam Rush, and Richard Simmons, as well as Mayor Pro Tem Joseph Tessari and Mayor Ike Bootsma. The invocation was led by Pastor Ed Moreno from New Day Christian Church.

The Public Safety Commission updated the Council on their upcoming projects, which included updates on grant status, construction progress, and a few of the items on their agenda for the coming month. Next, Student Liaison Natalie Diaz gave her report on the events taking place in the local schools. She started by saying that “The school year is in full swing,” and then began listing some of the unique activities that each school will be hosting over the course of the next few weeks.

There were no Public Comments, so the meeting progressed to the Consent Calendar. Item’s 6.1 through 6.8 were all approved 5-0.

The meeting then progressed to the Public Hearings section of the meeting, and item 7.1, the Verizon Cell Tower Appeal, was presented. The applicant, Kevin Sullivan, a Verizon representative, presented the project and the information requested by the Councilmembers at the July 13th meeting. In a PowerPoint, Sullivan presented the design plans for a 50 ft. cell tower disguised as a palm tree that would be built on Grapewin Street. He discussed the improved coverage for Verizon customers that would be a result of the new facility, and said that the tower would not result in any material visual impact. At the request of the Council at the July 13th meeting, Sullivan also presented information on a few possible alternative sites for the facility. After Verizon evaluated the other locations, the conclusion was that from both a technical and planning standpoint, the Grapewin site was still the most effective and would cause the least impact to the surrounding communities. With that, Verizon asked that the City approve their requests to move forward with the project.

With the conclusion of the presentation, Mayor Bootsma opened the floor to comments from the public. Three citizens stepped forward one after another to state their support for the project, followed by three citizens who were opposed to it. Some of the concerns stated by those opposed included the possibility of the tower being a visual nuisance, that the antennas would not withstand the high wind speeds, and that there were better alternative locations available. Sullivan, representing Verizon again, addressed the concerns by saying that the structure would be sound and would look the way it was presented to the Council. After further questions and comments by the Councilmembers, the item was approved 3-2, with Simmons and Tessari voting against it.

Item 8.1 was approved 5-0. The Council then moved to Item 8.3, which was a report on the Roadway Adoption Program’s progress. The program allows local groups, people, and organizations the opportunity to adopt local streets and keep them litter free over a 1-year time period. The responsibilities of the individual or group would be to remove litter 6 times per year and write a report after each clean-up event. After 2 successful clean-up days, the “owner” of the roadway would have their name placed on a recognition sign on that street. Councilman Simmons and a citizen expressed concerns that the program would be used as a commercial endeavor that businesses would use as an avenue for advertisement. The Council voted to approve the draft of the Program 4-0 (Tessari had to step out to take a phone call), as long as the staff looked into ways to prevent the program from being used for advertisements.

The next Item on the agenda, 8.2, opened a discussion about the future of the Eastvale Community Foundation, which recently had 4 officer positions vacated, leaving the Foundation unable to conduct business. As a result, the Council voted to suspend the Foundation, have the City staff take over the books as well as the military banner program, and cancel this year’s golf tournament, and it passed 5-0.

The meeting concluded with closing statements by the City Manager, City Staff, and the Councilmembers. It adjourned at 9:45.

Eastvale Holds Elections Nov 8

Staff Reports

Eastvale, CA – As many have claimed they aren’t going to vote in this November election due to the choice of candidates, the City of Eastvale will need you to go out and vote anyway, as three seats are up on the City Council.

The City Council previously took action at the April 27, 2016 City Council meeting to initiate the process of converting to by-district voting for the November, 2016 election. The Council approved Resolution No. 16- 09 initiating the by-district process, and District 2 and 5 are for the full term of four-years and a Councilmember from District 1 for a partial term of two-years.

Districts 1, 2, and 5 are up for election and there are eight residents who are vying for those seats. In District 1, which encompasses the north east side of Eastvale, from Cloverdale through the Ontario border, you have newcomers Mario Marroquin and Todd Rigby vying for a council seat. District 2, which covers the complete opposite of 1, encompassing the mid to north side of Eastvale, zigzagging from Schleisman, Scholar Way, through Citrus, Harrison, Chandler, ending by River Road at the Corona border, you have emcumbant Joseph Tessari against newcomer Bashar Madani. And finally in District 5, current Mayor Ike Bootsma is defending his seat against Raul Gutierrez, Robert Hetrick, and Brandon Wilson Plott. District 5 covers the west side of Walnut from Archibald Ave to the Chino border.

The City Clerk is the local elections administrator and coordinates with the County of Riverside in the conduct of Municipal elections. This includes, but is not limited to, the preparation of necessary resolutions calling for General and Special Municipal Elections and declaring the result of the election, the coordination of the candidate nomination process and the receipt and processing of initiative, referendum and recall petitions. Regular elections are consolidated with statewide elections, scheduled on the first Tuesday of November of even numbered years to fill expired City Council terms. All election services are provided according the California Elections Code, according to the city of Eastvale’s website.

City Council members are elected at-large for a four year term. Council Members serve “staggered” terms, meaning that either 2 or 3 seats are open for election every two years. Council Members receive $400 per month stipend as compensation for their service.

Qualifications for Candidacy. To qualify as a candidate for member of the City Council, you must reside and be registered to vote within the jurisdiction at the time nomination papers are issued. More specifically, you must be:

  • Be registered voters at their current residence in the City of Eastvale
  • Residing in the district in which they are running
  • A citizen of the United States
  • 18 years of age or older
  • Not disqualified from holding office by the Constitution or laws of the State of California.

To become a candidate, you must first be issued a Nomination Paper which specifies the office you are seeking. You must obtain the signatures of at least 20 and not more than 30 registered voters within the City of Eastvale. A number of additional forms are required to be filed.
The nomination period ran from July 18, 2016 through early August 12, 2016. Write-in candidates must file a statement of write-in candidacy, a nomination paper and a Statement of Economic Interests, as well as other forms, during the period of early September 2014 through late October 2014. Signatures and voter registration information on the nomination paper will be verified in the same manner as a regular nomination paper. Write-in candidates’ names donot appear on the ballot or in the sample ballot pamphlet.

Voter registration forms are available at all public libraries, post offices and City Hall. To receive a registration form by mail, please call the Riverside County Registrar of Voters office at (951) 486-7200 or the City Clerk’s office at (951) 703-4420. Completed registration forms can be hand-delivered to the Registrar’s office located at 2724 Gateway Drive, Riverside, CA 92507 or Eastvale City Hall located at 12363 Limonite Avenue, Eastvale, CA 91752 or dropped off in any U.S. mailbox. No postage is necessary. For additional voter registration information visit www.voteinfo.net. (most information courtesy of the City of Eastvale)

 

 

9/11 Memorial Ceremony and Moment of Silence

• Date: 09/11/2016 6:45 AM – 7:00 AM 911-memorial
• Location: Fire Station 27
7067 Hamner Ave.
Eastvale, California 92880
The City of Eastvale will hold a 9/11 Memorial Ceremony and Moment of Silence on Sunday, September 11, 2016.

Where: Eastvale Fire Station 27
7067 Hamner Ave., Eastvale, CA 92880
Time: 6:45 a.m.
Moment of Silence: 6:59 a.m.
Please join our Eastvale Firefighters, Eastvale Police Department, City Council members and staff as they observe a moment of silence in honor of the heroes and victims of September 11, 2001.

To commemorate the 15th anniversary of the tragic events of September 11, 2001, the Eastvale Firefighters and Police Officers will gather together in their work uniform at the base of the Fire Station 27 flag pole and stand at attention during the posting of the American Flag at exactly 0659 hours PST (time of the collapse of the south tower). The Eastvale safety personnel and all in attendance shall observe a one-minute moment of silence.

Let us come together as a community for the 15th anniversary of 9/11 to honor, remember and reunite. This event is open to the public and citizens are encouraged to attend. Coffee and donuts will be available after the ceremony.

Choosing A Road

Pastor Ed Moreno of New Day Christian Church, Eastvale

Pastor Ed Moreno of New Day Christian Church, Eastvale

By Pastor Ed Moreno

In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus says that there are two gates and two roads.  There’s the wide gate and the broad road, and then there’s the small gate and the narrow road.

It is easier to get through a wide gate, and it’s easier to travel on a broad road. But being easy doesn’t make them the best choice.

Indeed, Jesus strongly advises against that gate and that road.

That leaves option #2, i.e., the small gate and the narrow road.  To ‘whom’ or to ‘what’ do these refer?

Well, in John 10:9 Jesus tells us that he is the gate.  He is the one through whom we get onto the narrow road.  The narrow road is the one where a person adheres to the teachings and commands of God the Father and Jesus his Son, as outlined in the Bible.

You are free to ‘choose’ which of these roads you’ll travel on.  But be aware that, as Jesus says in Matthew 7, the broad road leads to destruction.  The narrow road, on the other hand, leads to life.

Destruction and life refer to hell and heaven.  So, one wants to choose wisely.  Here’s a brief description of both based on a study of the various words Jesus uses to describe each of these eternal destinations.

With regards to hell: Hell is a place where God’s presence, glory, wisdom and purity are completely absent.  Hell is going to be a place where ongoing shame, deep sorrow and regret will be experienced by those who go there. They are going to realize, too late, that they’ve blown it – that they’ve missed their opportunity to accept Jesus, and that now they have to exist for all eternity in a negative place where there is absolutely no hope of things ever getting better.  No good will ever be experienced there.

With regards to heaven:  Heaven is a place that is unrivaled in beauty and in breathtaking sites to see.  Heaven is unparalleled in splendor, radiance, majestic colors, and magnificent sounds.  Heaven is an unimaginable visual and audible feast.  And it is the ultimate positive environment, to which nothing on earth can compare.  In heaven, there will be ongoing and genuine feelings of happiness, security, and sense of wellbeing.  In heaven there will be ongoing peace and stability.  In heaven there will be no sadness, sorrow, arguments, broken relationships, discouragement, sickness, suffering, pain, disease, death, evil, sin, betrayal, hurt or unfaithfulness – and the list goes on!

It’s your choice, but Jesus recommends that you choose the small gate and the narrow road.

 

 

Your Platform

Dennis Morales X-ORIGBy Pastor Dennis Morales

“And I told them of the hand of my God which had been good upon me…” Nehemiah 2:18.

You have a platform.  It’s essentially something that enables you to be heard.  Speakers often stand upon a “soapbox” or a “stage” to be heard and make plain their message to their hearers.   Whether it is adversity, struggle, or triumph, it is a platform for faith.

Nehemiah was in captivity and was the king’s cupbearer.  He used his seemingly ill position as a platform for faith and to bring awareness of Gods plan.  As a result, Nehemiah was given favor with the king and necessary resources to fulfill God’s plan and rebuild the walls of Jerusalem.  Nehemiah’s opposition was ever present and men sought to discourage his faithful plan, but Nehemiah had faith and trusted in God.  Nehemiah knew God was for him and God turned the enemy’s plot to nothing (Neh 4:14-16).  The people rallied and completed the walls in record time.  God is faithful in adversity.

I am reminded of Bethany Hamilton who entrusted herself to her faithful Creator. She didn’t quit living when she lost her arm.   She gave her life to God. She deposited her life for safekeeping into His hands; and now, God has given her an international platform from which to share her story and bring Him glory.  What is your platform today?  Trust God to give you strength and lead you today (Proverbs 3:5,6).

Calvary Chapel Eastvale meets Sundays, 10:30am, and Wednesdays, 7 pm at Clara Barton Elementary School (7437 Corona Valley Ave, Eastvale).  Visit their website at www.calvaryeastvale.org.

Whom Then Shall I Fear?

Mark Lee NewBy Pastor Mark Lee

Several years ago, a study was released connecting common worries with actual outcomes.  Subjects were asked to write down their fears over an extended period of time.  They were later asked to review their concerns and identify which came to fruition.  Remarkably, approximately 85 percent of what the subjects worried about never happened.  In short, they wasted their time and energy on absolutely nothing.

Of course, fear is part of life.  Daily concerns regarding health, finances, and responsibilities plague us.  In addition, there are national and global situations that create anxiety.  From terrorism and political turmoil to social unrest and natural disasters, it is not surprising that an estimated 19 million Americans have been diagnosed with anxiety disorders.

With fear being such an ingrained part of human nature, it is easy to see why it is a common theme in the Bible.  In fact, the word “fear” is mentioned more than 500 times in the King James Version.  At the same time, some biblical scholars claim the phrase “fear not” is repeated 365 times – one for each day of the year.  With “fear not” being the most repeated command in the Bible, you know it is a message that God wants us to take to heart.

Isaiah 41:10 says, “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God.  I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”  While belief in God does not make you immune to sadness or suffering, it does provide hope.  We can’t get rid of fear, but we can rest assured in knowing that God is in control.  After all, we know how this story will end.

 

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

 

 

Help An Eastvale Resident Achieve Her Last Wish

By Racine Guajardo  

Photo courtesy: Karen’s GoFund Me : Karen Nordgren is asking for help in achieving her last wish since she was recently only given 6 months to 2 years to live.

Photo courtesy: Karen’s GoFund Me
: Karen Nordgren is asking for help in achieving her last wish since she was recently only given 6 months to 2 years to live.

Eastvale– Karen Nordgren, an Eastvale resident, suffers from a very rare primary immunodeficiency disorder (genetic) that causes constant ghastly respiratory infections. But she also suffers from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, which is the biggest cause of the short term life that she given to live.

With no history of even smoking one cigarette, Karen’s lungs are out of control. In order for her to breath, she is on a high dosage of steroids that have lead to more health issues such as diabetes, liver failure, and congestive heart failure. It has also caused her side effects that have turned her hair a different color, given her a gap in her front teeth, and resulted to excessive weight gain.

Karen is doing everything to stay positive and live out every day as much as she can as her body is willing. Her life motto is after a Disney movie: “just keep swimming, just keep swimming.” She has spent a lot of time doing fun activities, making memories, and attending events with her youngest daughter and her family. In the last couple of doctor visits, one doctor has said she has 1-2 years left to live and another has said she has 6 months.

Her last wishes are to move up north to spend time and make memories with her oldest daughter. Given the circumstances, her plans to move and retire there are pushed to be in a more high urgency.

A GoFund me account was created to help Karen achieve her goal and she says, “If you have any questions about my campaign or diseases, please do not hesitate to ask. You have probably already guessed that I’m an open book. So very many people have touched my heart and soul during this life; I hope I have touched yours, too.”

The link to her GoFund me account is www.gofundme.com/karennordgren

Choosing A Road

Pastor Ed Moreno

Pastor Ed Moreno

By Pastor Ed Moreno

In Matthew 7:13-14, Jesus says that there are two gates and two roads.  There’s the wide gate and the broad road, and then there’s the small gate and the narrow road.

It is easier to get through a wide gate, and it’s easier to travel on a broad road. But being easy doesn’t make them the best choice.

Indeed, Jesus strongly advises against that gate and that road.

That leaves option #2, i.e., the small gate and the narrow road.  To ‘whom’ or to ‘what’ do these refer?

Well, in John 10:9 Jesus tells us that he is the gate.  He is the one through whom we get onto the narrow road.  The narrow road is the one where a person adheres to the teachings and commands of God the Father and Jesus his Son, as outlined in the Bible.

You are free to ‘choose’ which of these roads you’ll travel on.  But be aware that, as Jesus says in Matthew 7, the broad road leads to destruction.  The narrow road, on the other hand, leads to life.

Destruction and life refer to hell and heaven.  So, one wants to choose wisely.  Here’s a brief description of both based on a study of the various words Jesus uses to describe each of these eternal destinations.

With regards to hell: Hell is a place where God’s presence, glory, wisdom and purity are completely absent.  Hell is going to be a place where ongoing shame, deep sorrow and regret will be experienced by those who go there. They are going to realize, too late, that they’ve blown it – that they’ve missed their opportunity to accept Jesus, and that now they have to exist for all eternity in a negative place where there is absolutely no hope of things ever getting better.  No good will ever be experienced there.

With regards to heaven:  Heaven is a place that is unrivaled in beauty and in breathtaking sites to see.  Heaven is unparalleled in splendor, radiance, majestic colors, and magnificent sounds.  Heaven is an unimaginable visual and audible feast.  And it is the ultimate positive environment, to which nothing on earth can compare.  In heaven, there will be ongoing and genuine feelings of happiness, security, and sense of wellbeing.  In heaven there will be ongoing peace and stability.  In heaven there will be no sadness, sorrow, arguments, broken relationships, discouragement, sickness, suffering, pain, disease, death, evil, sin, betrayal, hurt or unfaithfulness – and the list goes on!

It’s your choice, but Jesus recommends that you choose the small gate and the narrow road.

 

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

Smart & Final Comes To Eastvale

Staff Reports

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale recently announced that they will be welcoming a Smart & Final Extra to the new shopping center that will built on the corner of Limonite and Sumner.  The Smart & Final groundbreaking will be in the next few weeks of August and the store is expected to open in fall of 2017.

Many residents are excited about the new addition to Eastvale.  However, many expressed that they wanted a Trader Joe’s, Sprouts, or Whole Foods to come to the city too.  The City of Eastvale was very active on their Facebook page, explaining that all of those stores were approached but they all said no and sited “lack of population density as a key factor”.

The City of Eastvale is working hard to take the residents’ suggestions in consideration but sometimes it takes time for those types of businesses to come to Eastvale.  “We try very hard to provide timely information,” said the city said in a comment on their Facebook page. “We hope our citizens understand that we hear their comments and suggestions and we try very hard to accommodate. Sometimes it takes years to put a deal together. City staff are working extremely hard to make Eastvale a great place to live, work, play and raise a family. Thank you again for your support and encouragement.”

Nonetheless, the city is very excited that the Smart & Final Extra will be joining the Eastvale family because it will provide the organic produce many Eastvale residents are looking for.

“All of the data and sales leakage reports show there is a need for additional grocers. Smart and Final Extra offers organic products/produce,” the City stated.

Smart & Final has been in business for 145 years and was founded in 1871 by Herman Hellman. Today, Smart & Final is a public company with over 8,000 employees working in more than 250 grocery stores in California, Washington, Arizona, Nevada, Oregon, Idaho and Northern Mexico. Smart & Final is headquartered in Commerce, California. For many years, Smart & Final was known as “The Smaller, Faster Warehouse Store” — a place where restaurant chefs and businesses shopped for restaurant-quality products at low prices. Today, Smart & Final caters to the needs of individuals, families, restaurants and local businesses. Smart & Final offers both smaller convenient sizes and larger bulk sizes for a vast array of products. The Smart & Final Extra! concept is the company’s newest store concept and these stores are much larger in size (27,000 SF to 31,000 SF) and the store finishes and merchandising display are very appealing. Smart & Final Extra! stores provide a greatly expanded product selection in key categories, including fresh produce, organics, fresh meats, frozen foods, dairy, deli and grocery basics like cereal, yogurt, bread and snacks.

 

Cluster Mailbox Theft/Security FAQ

Photo courtesy: City of Eastvale

Photo courtesy: City of Eastvale

City of Eastvale  

Who is responsible for our mailboxes and cluster mailboxes?

The mailboxes and cluster mailboxes used throughout the city are federal property under the United States Postal Service (USPS). They are controlled by the United States Postal Service, a branch of the federal government.

What should I do if my mailbox is broken into?

If you see a crime in progress or you suspect a mailbox break in is occurring, please call the Eastvale Police Department (Riverside County Sheriff’s Department), 911 emergency line. If the crime has already occurred please call the Eastvale Police Non-Emergency line at (951) 776-1099 AND the Postal Inspectors Office by calling (877) 876-2455 or visiting https://postalinspectors.uspis.gov to alert them of the break-in. It may also be helpful for you to alert your neighbors and your Home Owners Association (where applicable).

Why report mailbox break-ins?

Reporting mailbox break-ins, theft, or vandalism is incredibly important for prevention of future damage. The reporting to the Eastvale Police Department (Riverside County Sheriff’s Department) is critical for crime data, statistics and prevention. Damage to mailboxes or cluster mailboxes may delay mail delivery by the USPS. It may be helpful to have your neighbors and your Home Owners Association report break-ins as well.

Who is responsible for the mailboxes being repaired?

For developments that have a Home Owners Association (HOA) that includes coverage of the cluster mailboxes, the HOA will be the responsible party. For developments that pre-date the City’s incorporation in October 2010 and those that do not have a HOA that is responsible for the cluster mailboxes, the maintenance and repairs fall on the property owner whose mailbox is located on the respective cluster. The repairs must be coordinated and paid for by the responsible HOA or in collaboration with all the homeowners whose mailbox is located on the respective cluster. Per the USPS, contacting the US Postal Service, (800) 275-8777, prior to modifying or installing any mailbox equipment is mandatory.

The US Postal Service neither recommends nor endorses any particular equipment vendor.

How can I help?

The Postal Inspectors Office is asking people not to confront criminals directly as they may be dangerous. Rather, they are asking folks to try and get any form of identification (such as a license plate, vehicle description, photograph, or video footage) and report it to the Eastvale Police Department (951-776-1099) and to the Postal Inspector at (877-876-2455) as soon as possible. If the crime is in progress, call 911.

Citizens are encouraged to talk to neighbors and get involved or start a neighborhood watch program. Think strategically and talk to the neighbors in close proximity to the mailboxes who may be home during the day, willing to assist with video surveillance monitoring, or assist with keeping the area well lighted and clear of brush. If an HOA is applicable, ask them to help with preventative measures around the mailboxes.

Eastvale Dances For Finley

Photo courtesy: @fifiandmo Instagram Finley ready to dance with the community at the 65th Street LIVE Concert in the Park in Eastvale.

Photo courtesy: @fifiandmo Instagram
Finley ready to dance with the community at the 65th Street LIVE Concert in the Park in Eastvale.

Staff Reports

Eastvale – Hundreds of community members gathered on July 29 at Harada Heritage Park for the 65th Street LIVE Concerts in the Park to dance for one special Eastvale resident: 3-year-old Finely Smallwood.

The Jurupa Community Services District (JCSD) Parks and Recreation Department organized the event so the community can come together to help Finley raise money and awareness about Cerebral Palsy.

Finley was born 9 weeks premature and suffers from Cerebral Palsy. She loves to dance, but can’t move without help. Her parents, Christian and Jose Smallwood, received news that Finley is a great candidate for selective dorsal rhizotomy. The procedure may help her walk and even dance on her own someday; however, the procedure is not covered under their medical insurance. That is where the #DareToDanceChallenge was born.

The loving community joined together to take the #DareToDanceChallenge that Finley’s mother, Christina Smallwood and neighbor, Brittany Rodriguez, started. Many local residents were in attendance at the Concerts in the Park, including JCSD staff, local law enforcement agencies, CNUSD staff, and City of Eastvale staff members. Even a local cheer and dance group, Sinergy, provided a gift to Finley and cheered her on. Don’t Stop Believing, a Journey Cover Band that was performing that night, joined in on the challenge and danced while Meghan Trainor’s song, “Better When I’m Dancing” was playing between sets.

Trainor’s song is one of Finley’s favorites and was first featured in a silly video of Christina and Finley dancing. The #DareToDanceChallenge took off when the LA County Fire Department posted a video of the fire fighters dancing with Finley and Christina. KTLA picked up the story and the challenge went viral. Many have posted videos of themselves dancing, such as Perez Hilton, and contestants from the Bachelor TV Show. Even Disneyland has conducted events to support Finley.

Photo courtesy: JCSD Local Synergy cheer and dance team posed with 3-year-old Finley Smallwood and her mom Christina at the 65th Street LIVE Concert in the Park in Eastvale. The event was organized by JCSD so the community could dance for Finley and help raise money for her surgery.

Photo courtesy: JCSD
Local Synergy cheer and dance team posed with 3-year-old Finley Smallwood and her mom Christina at the 65th Street LIVE Concert in the Park in Eastvale. The event was organized by JCSD so the community could dance for Finley and help raise money for her surgery.

Participates of the challenge are asked to post a video of themselves dancing with the hashtag #DareToDanceChallenge. Then they have to tag a few friends to take the challenge. If those friends don’t post a video of themselves dancing in 24 hours, they must donate $20 to Finley’s campaign. However, of course you can dance AND donate too!

As of press time, the Smallwoods have raised $52,497 of their $60,000 goal. They almost have enough money to be able to afford Finley’s surgery, cost of travel expenses, and cover the cost of intensive therapy for Finley’s recovery after the surgery. But they haven’t reached their goal yet so you can still join in on the challenge!

JCSD recently posted their video of community kids dancing, JCSD staff dancing, and the 76th Street Live Concerts in the Park event (Facebook/JCSDParks). JCSD then challenged Corona Norco Unified School District, City of Eastvale, City Of Jurupa Valley, Jurupa Unified School District, and the Jurupa Area Recreation and Park District to take the challenge.

Join us in dancing for Finley! “We Dare YOU Dare to Dance!”

Visit www.doyoudaretodance.com for more information about Finley’s story and how you can donate.

Photo courtesy: JCSD Local law enforcement and officials gave gifts to Finley and her mother Christina.

Photo courtesy: JCSD
Local law enforcement and officials gave gifts to Finley and her mother Christina.

Eastvale Community News Complete Edition August 2016

The Eastvale Community News covers local news for Eastvale, Norco, Corona, and Chino. 2016-08-EastvaleNews-COVERClick the following link to access the complete issue in pdf format:2016-08-EastvaleNews-FULL

Gods Path Or Your Path

rob-norris-BW-2x2By Pastor Rob Norris

Think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths. Proverbs 3:6

Although the Lord showers His goodness on all men and women, the ability to perceive and enjoy it is limited by a refusal to reverence Him as God. To experience the fullness of His kindness, we must honor Him by choosing His way of submission and obedience. The Lord will never withhold His goodness from those who walk uprightly with Him. For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Jeremiah 29:11

In love and wisdom, the Father has specifically designed a pathway for each of His children. Because no two people are alike, each path will look different. What may be best for one person may not be good for another. Comparison of God’s ways in different lives will lead only to discouragement and misjudgment. We have neither the wisdom nor the eternal perspective to understand why the Lord leads some people down a road of pain and hardship, but we can know that He is always good.

Every step on God’s pathway represents a deliberate choice to follow Him. By looking around instead of fixing our eyes on Jesus, we may start thinking that we are missing out on some really good experiences or possessions. If we leave the Lord’s course to follow one that looks better, we will forfeit His good blessings and discover, as Adam and Eve did, that any other way leads to loss.

Live It

Take time periodically to ask yourself, Am I on the path the Lord has chosen for me, or have I taken a detour to follow another direction that looks good? To build our own course and ignore the goodness and abundance of His pathway is foolishness. God alone knows the way we should take.

Pray
Ask the Lord to put you on His path and to have the faith to see it through.

The Crossings meets Sundays at 10 a.m. at River Heights Intermediate School, 7227 Scholar Way, in Eastvale.    For more information, visit http://www.atthecrossings.com.

 

Did You Know?

Eastvale Street Sweeping Reminder

City of Eastvale  

Street Sweeping days and times vary based on location

Photo courtesy: City of Eastvale
Street Sweeping days and times vary based on location

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale contracts through Waste Management with Dickson Street Sweeping for street sweeping services. This service ensures that all City-approved arterial, residential, industrial and alley roadways are kept clean. Maintaining clean streets keeps the City of Eastvale beautiful and complies with the South Coast Air Quality Management District (SCAQMD) and National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) requirements. Residents maybe unaware of the storm water pollution (polluted runoff) problem, and the threat it poses to the local Santa Ana River, lakes and streams.

Street parking is prohibited during the days and times identified on the street sweeping sign posted at the main entrance(s) to each development. The “No Parking Zone” is enforceable during the block of time identified on the posted sign, regardless of the location of the street sweeper on the scheduled route. Street sweeping services will continue rain or shine and will not take place on holidays. Vehicles parked on the street during those days and between the posted hours will be cited under section 10.20.040-Parking prohibited-street sweeping. The fine amount is $50.00. For residents who wish to contest their citations, please follow the instructions located on the back of the citation.

Residents are encouraged to pay close attention to the street sweeping sign(s) posted at the entrance of your development. If you wish to view the street sweeping maps for the community, please visit the Street Sweeping page on the City’s website, http://www.EastvaleCA.gov/residents/street-sweeping. For more information regarding the street sweeping schedule, general street maintenance or service, please call Eastvale City Hall at (951) 361-0900.

About the City of Eastvale

Eastvale, one of California’s newest cities, incorporated on October 1, 2010. Roughly ten years prior, Eastvale was a part of the world-famous Chino dairy area, home to thousands of dairy cattle and only a handful of residents. Today, Eastvale has an ever-growing population of 63,162 residents according to recent CA Department of Finance data. Roughly 90 percent of the city is developed and served by a variety of local and regional shopping centers. Eastvale residents are proud of their community and of incorporation as well as the chance to chart their own future as an independent city. Eastvale is a young and dynamic community in Western Riverside County filled with economic opportunity and strong values. The City Council values and encourages public participation in the governing process. For more information on the City of Eastvale, please visit: www.eastvaleca.gov.

Pay It Forward

Pastor, Rich-FountainBy Pastor Rich Fountain

 

There is a concept or deed that has become more familiar and more popular in our culture; it’s called “Pay It Forward.” Maybe you’ve driven through a Starbucks recently and the server tells you the car in front of you paid for your coffee. A few years ago there was even a movie staring Kevin Spacey and Helen Hunt by that name. In the movie a young student of a teacher who was played by Kevin Spacey came up with a concept of how we can change our world. It was a simple concept, you help three people who in turn help 3 people each and before long the entire world has been helped. He called it Pay It Forward.

This terminology actually dates back to 1916 when an author named Lily Hammond wrote a book entitled “In The Garden Of Delight.” In the book she wrote, “you can’t repay love, you pay it forward.” Today this concept has become a movement where we now have a Pay It Forward day on April 30th. Last year, 70 countries joined in on Pay It Forward day.  I recently saw a report where a man drove though a Chick-fil-A and gave the cashier $1,000.00 and told them to pay for everyone’s food behind him until the money ran out. The manager told of several people who came through the drive through and started crying and shared how they were having tough times or it had been a tough day and that really made their day. I’ve now seen numerous stories of people Paying It Forward.

Hebrews 12:2 tells us, “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.”  We see here that the originator of Pay It Forward was Jesus. When Jesus went to the cross He was paying it forward. Romans 8:29 calls Him the “Firstborn among many brethren.”  Col. 1:18 calls Him “the firstborn from the dead.” Jesus went to the cross to pay it forward so that mankind could be redeemed and restored to right relationship with the Father. Everything that Jesus did, He did it with you and I in mind. He was willing to sacrifice His own good for our good.

Think about it, Mankind has this selfish nature. The man Jesus dealt with this in the garden. We See Him asking the Father, “If there’s any way let this cup pass from me.” The flesh didn’t want to go to the cross. Then the selfless Jesus rose up and said, “Not My will but thine be done.” We all deal with this to some degree. We want it our way and we want it how and when we desire. Everyone of use has this character flaw. I can honestly say I have never met a person who doesn’t deal with this in some form or another. The challenge is to overcome this flaw and live a life that is selfless rather than selfish. When we learn this valuable lesson and then begin to apply it in our lives we really begin to Pay it Forward.

I can never repay God for the love, grace and mercy He has shown me but I can Pay it Forward to someone else by sharing that grace with someone I come in contact with.

 

Rich Fountain is the Student Pastor for Faith Life Center Church. They are located at 3778 Milliken/Hamner Ave Eastvale, CA 91752. They meet every Sunday at 8:30 am & 11 am.

 

Verizon’s Wireless Telecommunications Tower In Eastvale

By Valerie Gutierrez

Eastvale– Many Eastvale residents gathered at Rosa Parks Elementary on July 13 to voice their concerns about a future installation of a new 50-foot-high wireless telecommunications tower behind the Grapewin residential neighborhood.

The Verizon 50-foot wireless telecommunication tower, disguised as a “monopalm,” with ancillary equipment in a 17-foot by 19-foot lease area at 8306 Grapewin Street with an access easement on the adjacent parcel to the north of the project site has many Eastvale residents excite and others unhappy.

The applicant, Courtney Stenridge, from Verizon, provided a PowerPoint presentation at the meeting and discussed the benefits to the community, need of customers, and the elements of the site selection.

Bill Frescas, engineer from Verizon, discussed coverage areas that would be improved by the new tower and discussed the Radio Frequency Study performed by Hammett and Edison, an independent third party. Eastvale residents had their own comments regarding this study.

The proposed “monopalm” would be equipped with 12 panel antennas and one microwave dish Ground-mounted equipment at the base of the monopalm consisting of two equipment cabinets, one generator, and apparatus surrounded by a 6-foot-high block wall. The tower and the attached antennas will be designed to look like a palm tree. All ground-level equipment will be installed within the boundary of the lease area and screened behind a 6-foot-high split-face wall.

When the project was first presented on May 18, 2016, the Planning Commission considered the project for future development and voted 3-0 to continue the project discussion so that the entire Commission could be present to hear testimony and take part in the decision-making process. A month later, on June 15, 2016, Verizon came back to the Planning Commission with a new and developed project after in-depth research was done. However, the Planning Commission voted 3-1 to deny the project that they presented.

According to Planning Director, Eric Norris, Eastvale’s Planning Commission instructed Verizon to revise the plan that was denied and re-present it during the next meeting on August 24, 2016. The Planning Commission “Did not feel [that the City of Eastvale] would gain enough benefit from the [proposed] project,” said Norris.

Eastvale residents surrounding Grapewin Street have mixed reviews regarding the proposed project. Some are excited to finally get good coverage as they say they hardly have any cell phone signal/reception in that area. However, the majority of the residents expressed their worry about their family’s health concerns as well as their current view overlooking the Santa Ana River. After residents learned that Verizon had looked at seven other sites for a new cell phone tower, four which were on residential properties, they burst claiming that the tower was in their “residential backyard.”

During the meeting on July 13, Verizon explained that no material visuals impacts would be a problem considering that the area already consists of mature trees. The 50-foot monopalm would blend in with the existing trees, creating a site where the tower would not be visual. Verizon also claimed that the project site is 144 feet away from the nearest residents and that compared to other telecommunications towers that are approximately 75 to 90 feet high, this Grapewin tower will only be 50-feet high, taking residents’ concerns serious.

“About 50 to 60 residents showed up to cast their concerns,” said Norris. Many of those were well organized and prepared to make their voices heard.

Maintenance personnel will visit the site every four to six weeks to ensure the equipment is functioning properly and to perform regular and emergency maintenance via the access easement on the adjacent parcel to the north. Maintenance could occur at any time of the day or night. Among several of the many concerns pointed out by residents were as followed:

  • Visual nuisance with privacy of the 50-foot-high telecommunications tower.
  • Maintenance’s team on tower with bedroom views is unacceptable.
  • Verizon having 24 hours access to the tower glaring lights in the middle of the night.
  • Noises from generators as they maintain and service the tower.

Residents also came prepare to speak health concerns revealing that cell phone towers emit Radio Frequency radiation (RF). The cell phone industry’s stance is that RF that is in the non-heating range of the EMF spectrum. Eastvale residents explained to Council Members and Verizon that science had concluded that even low-level of exposure to RF is linked to many illnesses. Symptoms and illnesses include: headaches, memory and concentration issues, blood brain barrier leakage problems, heart problems, increase heart rates, increase stress hormone levels, nosebleeds, and increase in seizures among others.

Approximately more than two hours were spent on the night of July 13 discussing Verizon’s “monopalm” tower. Though no final decision has been made, Eastvale residents and city members urge local residents to attend the “August 24 meeting where the 50-foot-high plan will be presented back to the city council

The Power Of Story

Tim Eaton

Tim Eaton

By Pastor Tim Eaton

 

Stories are a powerful thing.  They help our children go to bed.  A great love story can inspire romance and hope in our own life.  A movie with a great story can change our societies’ perception of people and events.  A great story can move us to action.  But what about your story?

If you were asked about your story what would you say?  Where would it begin; would you include the good with the bad?  Would you see the causes and effects?  More importantly, where would your story end – have you written the last chapter or is there more to come?

It is very likely that your story is more powerful than any you have read, heard, or watched.  And there is an even more powerful story that yours is a part of.  It begins in Genesis 1:26: Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals, and over all the creatures that move along the ground.”  Your story begins as a precious creation of God himself.  But more than that, He has incredible purpose for your story, what He knows you can do, and He is writing a much better ending that you might have imagined.

Join us at Edgewater on Sundays and discover your story in THE STORY: the Bible as one continuing story of God and His people.  Visitors will get a free copy of The Story.

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

 

 

Gotta Catch ‘Em All!

By Racine Guajardo   

City of Eastvale wants you to remember these Pokésafety tips!

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale
City of Eastvale wants you to remember these Pokésafety tips!

The Pokémon Go App is the latest craze! The game app first launched on July 6 in the app store for Australia, New Zealand and the United States. On July 13, it was made available in Germany, and on July 14, it was available in the UK. In just one week of the launch date, the Pokémon app has become the most successful mobile app in history.

Pokémon originally started as a game for Nintendo in 1996, and the Pokémon trading cards started in October of 1996. Of course with technology constantly evolving, it was destined to create this app.

Many people love it, hate it, or have found it as a bonding experience between friends, family, and even co-workers. The game allows people to gather in outdoor areas and opens communication between each other.

It seems like the most people who were in the age group of 20 to 30 years old found the app to be the most enjoyable, but community members of all ages are enjoying the app.

10-year-old Andrew Larson says, “It’s a new adventure for everyone!”

Andrew is right because many are even expressing how the app is getting them to adventure out and explore their local community.

Mother of Andrew Larson, Jennifer, says “Pokémon Go is a great fun way to interact and get outside. I like that the game teaches a person to be cautious of their surroundings, which means more eyes are on alert. Never a bad idea! I also enjoy connecting with my 10 year old, while on the hunt for more Pokémon.”

“Pokémon Go has opened doors that hasn’t been opened up in years…it’s making people more active and it’s bring people together,” said Gemayal Adams, 32 years old.

“This game makes me want to go out more than my friends do,” said Raylene Arcides, 21.

“This is how I see it. We see kids inside sitting in front of TV all day with video games. Kids don’t go out like we used to back then. Electronics (which I love) have taken over. I think it’s pretty cool [Pokémon Go] has people going outside and walking looking for those dang things, if it helps with obesity and make kids healthy then so be it,” said Katrina Casas, 27 years old.

Many residents have even admitted they are out exercising more because of the app.

“I exercise more in one day than I have in years,” said Adrian Guajardo, 27 years old.

Charles Sapalasan, 22, agreed by saying, “Pokémon Go has got me up on my feet to get some exercise and meet some real friendly people.”

Adriana Sepulveda, 37, doesn’t have the app but she’s noticed that more people are outside. “There’s a lot more people out and they all look lost running around.”

Josie Ma, 16, agreed it was a great app but expressed her regret for picking the wrong team. “I chose the yellow team (Instinct) and it’s the worst team out of the three, worst decision I have made. This app is great though because it lets a lot of people get to walk around and exercise.”

The app has received positive feedback overall, but there are still many residents who aren’t too thrilled about it.

Stephanie Denise, 46, described the app as “Ridiculous!”

Kandra Shinedling agreed by saying, “I say it’s a dumb app! I never got into Pokémon and don’t care for it. People waste more time on it when they could be exercising and doing something good with themselves instead of trying to catch something that’s not even there. Plus, it’s just another way for the government to keep a tag on you.”

But the app is still enjoyable for many and said to be bringing families, friends, and community members together.

Adriana Flores, 32, said, “I may look stupid playing but at least I’m having fun!”

“At first I thought how stupid just another trend…. but honestly I have an 11-year-old daughter and quite frankly it’s cool to spend time with her on some kind of common ground. Seriously I’m schooling her on something she’s interested,” said local resident Eddie Medina, 29 years old.

“Just playing this game for a few days, I gained two new friends and I also find myself to be more active,” said Mathew Sanchez, 27.

Robert Mejia, 28, agreed by saying that he’s met a lot of people and has even met girls through the app!

Felicia Weese, 30, hunts for Pokémon with her husband and described her most recent encounter in the community: “My husband and I drove to Downtown Riverside to check out all the Poke stops and there was upwards of 100 people there… At 11 at night! It was funny to see everyone walking around following their phones to try to get the best Pokémon. It reminded me a lot of zombie movies the way people were slowly moving in herds.”

Locally, the best places to catch Pokémon are one of Eastvale’s 13 parks. An Eastvale resident said that he believed the best Pokéstop is Dairyland Park because it has six Pokéstops and a gym. Or you can stop by the Eastvale City Hall, which is also a Pokéstop. Be sure to stop in and say hi!

You will see many residents at the parks and building, but you will also see residents driving around slowly trying to catch these Pokémon! Since these residents are driving while playing, the game has also become a hazard. There was one report of a car accident in New York due to the person playing the game while driving. There has also been another report of thieves using the app to find and rob players. A woman even reported that she found a dead body while playing the app, however that has not been confirmed.

Therefore, Police offered the following advice to Pokémon Go players:

  • Don’t play the game while driving a car or bicycle.
  • Don’t trespass on private property just to “catch” a Pokémon.
  • Avoid staring down at your phone and be aware of hazards like roadways, drop-offs and waterways.
  • Be cautious of who you share your location with.
  • Don’t travel alone.

For those who enjoy, stay safe and have fun!

Eastvale Student Wins Miss California Teen

By Sarah Sanchez  

Photo courtesy: Paget Sanders

Photo courtesy: Paget Sanders
Gabriella Sanders was recently crowned the 2016 National American Miss California Teen.

Eastvale – An Eastvale student, Gabriella Sanders, was recently crowned the 2016 National American Miss California Teen at the state pageant held on July 10, 2016.

She will be representing the state of California at the National Pageant held at Disneyland during Thanksgiving week. She will have the opportunity to win her share of over $500,000 in cash and prizes, including a new 2016 Ford Mustang Convertible.

Gabriella and her brother grew up in the Corona Norco Unified School District, both attending Eastvale schools.  “We lived in Eastvale for years,” said proud parent Paget Sanders. “My son, Charles Sanders, graduated from Roosevelt in 2012 and Gabriella attended Rosa Parks, River Heights and was part of the inaugural class at Ramirez Middle School.”

The new Miss California Teen enjoys a variety of activities in her spare time, including swimming, water polo, cheerleading, track, and volunteering in the community.

“Gabriella is a very kind person that loves her family, loves the Lord Jesus, and loves people,” said Paget. “I believe the judges looked beyond her outward beauty and saw who she is on the inside!”

The National American Miss (NAM) Pageants program is based on inner beauty, as well as poise, presentation, and offers an “All American Spirit” of fun for family and friends, according to a NAM news release.

“Emphasis is placed on the importance of gaining self-confidence, learning new skills, learning good attitudes about competition, and setting and achieving personal goals. The pageant seeks to recognize the accomplishments of each girl while encouraging her to set goals for the future!” states NAM.

The National American Miss is dedicated to developing the success of young women across the nation with a program that is designed to be age-appropriate; they offer pageants in each state for girls ages four to eighteen in five different age groups. NAM takes pride in being for “Today’s Girl” and “Tomorrow’s Leaders.”

 

 

 

Little Boys Are Superheroes In Disguise

   By Racine Guajardo  

 

Eastvale – “Carter pic2There is a Superhero inside all of us; we just need the courage to put on the cape.” Carter Forsyth at just 6 years-old, wakes up every day and puts on his cape to fight this debilitating disease in order to live the most normal life as possible and to be happy again.

Carter is an Eastvale resident that is one of 300,000 U.S. children suffering from Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis (JIA). JIA is an autoimmune, inflammatory joint disease that presents with varying degrees of pain, swelling, stiffness, lethargy and a reduction or loss of mobility. Growth retardation is common in children with JIA, and this symptom is often exacerbated with medications typically used to treat the disease. Muscle weakness or loss, and osteoporosis are also possible conditions associated with JIA.

In an effort to find a cure for JIA, the Annual California Coast Classic bike ride will be held by The Arthritis Foundation and sponsored by Amgen. The 8-day bike ride will start on Sept. 24.

For last year’s ride, Team Carter, led by Carter’s “Papa” Jerry Davis, set a national fundraising record for the Arthritis Foundation. They raised over $210,000 and recruited 52 cyclist to join the team for the 525 mile ride, in which started in San Francisco and ended in Los Angeles. This will be the 3rd year in a row that Team Carter will be participating in the ride. The event is fully paid for by corporate sponsors such as Amgen and a few others, but 100% of the amount raised goes to research for better treatment and hopefully a cure one day, as well as provide education about the disease. The money raised also sends kids like Carter to a special summer camp with other kids who suffer from the disease.

There is not one treatment for JIA that works for everyone and most of them have heavy side effects when used long term, which may do even more harm to the patient’s body.

Carter is doing better than he was in the beginning of his treatments but recently, the treatments don’t seem to be working as well. The doctors are discussing other options which would include adding another medication to his treatment plan. He is now 6 years old and ev

Photo courtesy: Jerry Davis Carter Forsyth

Photo courtesy: Jerry Davis
Carter Forsyth

ery day is difficult for his family as they think of how heartbreaking it is that he will be on some type of treatment for the rest of his life, but most importantly that he will have to live in such pain.

In spite of his pain, Carter is a real warrior and rarely complains. His family believes he hides the pain as much as he can because he just wants to be a normal little boy and do the things boys his age like to do. He loves baseball and participated in t-ball and coach pitch this last year. His Papa says, “He’s actually really good and has a great swing. He told me he can’t wait until next season and that he is going to be on the All Star team.”

Recently, Carter made a fundraising video to post on the Team Carter For a Cure Facebook page for this year’s ride. He thought of what to say in his own words and he asked for people to “donate to Team Carter for The Arthritis Foundation so they can find kids sickness and so kids can be happy again.” Carter is one tough kid and he has a huge heart; he’s a real-life superhero. He wants to help other kids like him so they can all be happy again.

As usual, Jerry will be riding in the California Coast Classic in honor of his grandson Carter. “I’m just a grandpa that loves his grandson and I’m doing what I think any grandpa would do for his grandchild. I have 5 grandchildren and I’d do the same for all of them,” says Papa Davis.

For more information on where to donate to help Team Carter and other kids, you may visit: http://www.525m4Carter.com and visit this YouTube link to hear Carter’s personal message: http://youtu.be/4nfhIoDTvfY.