Tag Archives: eastvale

Eastvale: ERHS Student Receives National Award

Photo Courtesy: Hamilton Friends 2015 Hamilton Award Winner, Emily Lundberg

Photo Courtesy: Hamilton Friends
2015 Hamilton Award Winner, Emily Lundberg

Staff Reports

Eastvale – Emily Lundberg, a student at Eleanor Roosevelt High, has received the national Alexander Hamilton Citizenship Achievement Award for superior community service and achievement.  Hamilton Awards are given annually by The Alexander Hamilton Friends Association (Hamilton Friends) of Seattle, Washington.  Winners receive a scholarship, commemorative certificates, memorabilia, and acceptance into the extensive Hamilton Leaders Academy.

Lundberg is one of 38 students selected for the award, the purpose of which is to recognize high school students for their academic, personal, service and entrepreneurial accomplishments and to select students for the Hamilton Leaders Academy.  Winners are high-achieving, service-oriented, high school juniors with significant financial need.

“This year, the award was very competitive.  We received 609 applications from 48 states.  Winners represented 18 states,” said George T. Cox, Founder and Senior Director of Hamilton Friends. “Our goal is to identify young people who have set high standards for citizenship and success in their lives.  We are very excited about Emily’s potential for future greatness.  The Eastvale Community is lucky to have Emily as a resident,” concluded Cox.

When Emily’s achievements are reviewed, it is easy to see why the judges were so impressed.

Hamilton Friends is named for Alexander Hamilton, one of the most important American founding fathers.  He was born out of wedlock in the West Indies.  When he was 9-years old, his father abandoned the family, leaving young Alexander, his brother, and their mother, Rachel, without a penny.  Hamilton’s mother died only a few years later, when he was 13.  Yet within seven years, and barely out of his teens, he was appointed as an aide to General Washington, and later became the visionary that laid the foundations of America’s current national banking system.

In its first ten years, Hamilton Friends has recognized over 500 young people for superior service and achievement.

“These young people give us tremendous hope.  With proper attitude, support, experiences and inspiration, I have no doubt they will achieve great things in their lives,” said Cox.

For more information about The Alexander Hamilton Friends Association, visit their website at http://www.hamiltonfriends.org.

Eastvale: ECN 3rd Annual Golf Tournament

Eastvale Community Foundation swings into action this summer

 

By Claire Lewis

Eastvale – The Eastvale Community Foundation’s 3rd Annual Golf Tournament will be held on Fri., Aug. 21, at the Los Serranos Country Club (located at 15656 Yorba Ave. in Chino Hills).

With a Shotgun Start at 1 p.m., the fun begins at 10 a.m. with registration, followed by a Chipping & Putting Contest – with cash prizes! – at 11:30 a.m.  The event ends with a special dinner at 6 p.m.

The Foundation works to make a difference in the community of Eastvale, and the proceeds from this Golf Tournament – as do all donations – help to support programs like sports/arts scholarships for students, the Military Banner Program, forthcoming City monuments and way-finding signs, and much more.

Play in this tournament will be limited to the first 144 golfers.  Individuals can participate at $125 person or $450 for a Foursome (all fees include lunch, cart, dinner, goody bag and more).  There are also Sponsorships available, as follows:

  • Platinum – $2,500
    • Includes company name and logo on all promotional materials and event banner; one foursome of golf; tee signs on six holes; and a reserved table at dinner for 8 individuals.
  • Gold – $1,500
    • Includes company name and logo on all promotional materials and event banner; one foursome of golf; and tee signs on three holes.
  • Silver – $1,000
    • Company name and logo on all promotional materials and event banner; and golf for two players.
  • Bronze – $750
    • Company name and logo on all promotional materials and event banner; and two dinner tickets.

Additional sponsorships are available.

Not a golfer? Come on out and support the Eastvale community as a spectator; Dinner Only tickets are also available.

The deadline to register is Sat., Aug. 1, and golfers and sponsors may sign up at ecfgolftournament.eventbrite.com.

For more information about the Eastvale Community Foundation, visit EastvaleFoundation.org or Facebook.com/ECFeastvale.

Eastvale Marketplace Retail Development

By Claire Lewis

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale has recently prepared an Initial Study for the development of a new retail center.

The proposed project – dubbed the Eastvale Marketplace – will be located at the now vacant lot on the northeast corner of Limonite and Sumner avenues.  All told, it will include approximately 71,472 square feet of retail space in a center with multi-tenant and single-tenant buildings and associated parking facilities, according to the City of Eastvale.

The Center will include a 31,000 square foot grocery store; a ten-bay tire store; a bank with drive-up access; two fast food drive-thru restaurants; two additional retail buildings totaling more than 20,000 square feet; and parking access with 393 parking stalls.

Access to the center would present on both Limonite Avenue and Sumner Avenue; pedestrian connections will be located on Valencia Street.

The Initial Study did not identify any significant or unavoidable impacts.  Notice has been posted for the 21-day required public review period – which concluded on Mon., July 13 – and can be viewed at Eastvale City Hall, located at 12363 Limonite Avenue, Suite 910 (Monday through Thursday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.).

Inland Empire: A 5-Year Old Superhero

Photo Courtesy: Jerry Davis 5-year old Carter Forsyth

Photo Courtesy: Jerry Davis
5-year old Carter Forsyth

By Sarah Sanchez

Eastvale – Whether it’s Superman flying or Spider-Man swinging, every 5-year old has a superhero. But Carter Forsyth is not like other 5-year olds, because Carter is his own superhero, with his “Papa”, Jerry Davis, following right behind him.

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.

Carter had been experiencing pain and medical attention from Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis since July 2013, but he was diagnosed with JIA on January 6, 2014. Facing a life-long disease as a young boy is tough for Carter and his family, but this superhero doesn’t let his disease get him down.

Carter is a “shining force, radiating happiness and hope that he shares with everyone who touches his life,” according to his family. He has a big heart and a silly personality. He is also a curious boy who constantly seeks knowledge and has an amazing memory. At his recent preschool graduation, Carter told the crowd that he wants to be a scientist and study volcanoes when he grows up.

Carter and his family have high hopes that he will be able to do just that, since the treatment he is currently on has helped give him relief from the everyday pain he was experiencing. According to his grandfather, Jerry Davis, aka “Papa”, Carter is doing much better today than he was at this time last year. His latest treatment still involves a trip to Loma Linda Hospital once a month for an all-day infusion treatment, but Carter has gotten used to them, for the most part, and he hardly complains, according to Davis.

In order to raise funds and awareness of JIA, Davis will be

Photo Courtesy: Jerry Davis Carter and his “Papa” at last year’s California Coast Classic 525 Mile Ride For A Cure.

Photo Courtesy: Jerry Davis
Carter and his “Papa” at last year’s California Coast Classic 525 Mile Ride For A Cure.

participating in the 15th Annual California Coast Classic 525 Mile Ride For A Cure, hosted by the Arthritis Foundation. Last year, as a first-year individual rider, Davis raised just over $13,000. This year, Davis founded “Team Carter,” which currently has 46 registered riders participating. At press time, Team Carter is the top fundraising team at $90,000.

“Our goal is $125,000, and with three months to go, I’m hoping we can reach that goal,” said Davis.

All funds will be donated to the Arthritis Foundation to further the search for a cure.

Carter’s family also wants to give a big thank you to the Arthritis Foundation for all they have done for him. The foundation helped Carter find his current doctor at Loma Linda Hospital, who was able to find a successful treatment.

Davis says that the Arthritis Foundation also honored Carter as the official “Finish Line Juvenal Arthritis Honoree” of last year’s CCC Ride For A Cure. They are also sending Carter and his whole family to this year’s Juvenile Arthritis Conference, later this month in Florida.

“Our family is very grateful to the Arthritis Foundation and that is another reason why I, as Carter’s grandfather, will be involved in the ride every year for a long time to come. I believe in this organization and I am thankful for what they do,” said Davis.

To donate to Carter’s personal fundraiser, please visit www.525m4Carter.com.  To join Team Carter, visit www.TeamCarter525m4aCure.com. To follow the team and Carter on this journey, LIKE their Facebook at www.facebook.com/525miles4Carter. If you would like more information about this cause, you can email 525m4Carter@gmail.com.

Sheriff Approves Body Worn Cameras

City of Eastvale

Eastvale – Sheriff Stan Sniff has approved the fielding of Body Worn Cameras (BWC) throughout its patrol operations over the next few years, subject to county funding of the devices and storage.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department has completed its field testing of Body Worn Cameras (BWC) in its patrol operations. Earlier this year the Department began “voluntary” field testing of the VieVu model BWC at its Jurupa Valley Station, deploying over 150 BWCs throughout the station’s patrol operations, including deputies, corporals, investigators, sergeants and community service officers (CSOs). The Sheriff had specified an initial test period of 60 to 90 days to determine what issues would arise in the Department’s first large scale fielding of these devices, to work through any issues that did arise, and for end-users to provide feedback on both their utility and cost-effectiveness. In addition, the Department researched and absorbed “lessons learned” and best practices from other agencies fielding various varieties of BWC technology.

Although the Department was prepared to continue testing, if required, for another 60 to 90 days, input from the Jurupa Valley chain of command has indicated they have learned what we needed to know, and recommended transition from voluntary testing of these devices to mandatory Department-wide use. The manufacturer has worked closely with the Sheriff’s Department in dealing with desired equipment modifications for problems encountered in the real-world testing and deployment of BWCs in our local patrol environment, under tactical conditions and used in our patrol vehicles. Our technology specialists have also been able to resolve issues concerning downloading and data storage to our satisfaction.

The Sheriff’s Department has refined its BWC procedures during the Jurupa Valley Station testing period, and the Department-wide document will replace the separate patrol station SOPs that have evolved over the last several years for this emerging technology. The Sheriff’s Department has notified County Human Resources that the decision on “mandatory” use in patrol operations has been made and the County remains open to meeting and conferring with the various labor groups on any foreseeable workplace impacts of that management decision.

The Jurupa Valley Station testing has validated that the known presence of BWCs has positively altered potential confrontations between deputies and the public, often gaining voluntary compliance by the public. Formal personnel complaints against our deputies at the Jurupa Valley Station during the testing period have declined 30%.

Based on the voluntary testing period input from the Jurupa Valley Station, the Sheriff has concurred that patrol deputies and other Department personnel utilizing BWCs shall continue to have discretion in deciding when to activate their cameras pursuant to the BWC policy guidance developed.

The Sheriff’s Department deeply appreciates the leadership efforts of our Jurupa Valley Station in fielding this BWC technology, paving the way for its use throughout our patrol operations over the next few years. In the interim, the Sheriff will continue to allow personal BWCs for on-duty use until full deployment of county-owned BWCs is completed. After full deployment occurs within patrol operations, only county-owned BWCs will be used.

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department will continue testing the potential usage of BWC technology throughout its operations outside of its patrol divisions, including Corrections and Courts, but the challenges and required stakeholder input will be somewhat different than in patrol operations.

The Sheriff will seek funding from the Riverside County Board of Supervisors in Fiscal Year 2015/16, for a phased acquisition, training, and fielding plan of BWCs, initially throughout its patrol operations, and ultimately across its other specialized jail and court areas after preliminary testing and needed guidance from our judicial officers has been completed.

In addition, the Sheriff’s Department is submitting for the FY “2015 Body-Worn Camera Pilot Implementation Program” grant through the U.S. Department of Justice. If awarded, the grant will require a 50% in-kind match for the purchase of Body Worn Cameras, but excludes the cost of data storage. Ultimately, nearly 3,000 BWCs may someday be deployed throughout all of the Department’s massive operations across Riverside County.

 

Eastvale: 99¢ Only Store Coming To Town

Image Courtesy: 99Only.com

Image Courtesy: 99Only.com

Staff Reports

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale Planning Commission held a public hearing on Wed., June 17, for consideration of a Major Development Review for the construction of a 19,104 square foot retail building referred to as Project No. 13-1601.

The proposed project site is located on the southern 2.67 acres of a 5.53 acre vacant parcel north of new Schleisman Avenue (formerly A Street) and west of Hamner Ave.  The applicant is 99¢ Only Stores.

Commercial use of the property was considered in an environmental assessment (initial study) prepared by Riverside County and adopted on November 21, 2008. Staff has reviewed the environmental analysis prepared by the County and determines that it remains valid for the proposed commercial use. Therefore, no additional environmental analysis is necessary. The project site is not located on a hazardous materials site that is listed under Government Code Section 65962.5.

99¢ Only Stores is a deep-discount retailer that primarily carries name-brand consumable and general merchandise.

 

Eastvale: City Manager Honored

City Manager Michele Nissen

City Manager Michele Nissen

By Claire Lewis

Eastvale – Eastvale’s City Manager, Michele Nissen, was honored recently as the Outstanding Rising Administrator at the American Society for Public Administration (ASPA) 2015 Public Service Awards & Scholarship Luncheon.

The Inland Empire Chapter event – which was held on Wed., June 24, in Riverside, honored public administration professionals who have demonstrated excellence in public service.  The ASPA also awarded scholarships to outstanding students who have shown scholastic achievement in the field of public administration and are pursuing graduate degrees in Public Administration at Inland Empire institutions of higher learning.

Congratulations to Michele Nissen, for being committed to serving the citizens of Eastvale!

Eastvale: A 5-Year Old Superhero

Photo Courtesy: Jerry Davis 5-year old Carter Forsyth

Photo Courtesy: Jerry Davis
5-year old Carter Forsyth

By Sarah Sanchez

Eastvale – Whether it’s Superman flying or Spider-Man swinging, every 5-year old has a superhero. But Carter Forsyth is not like other 5-year olds, because Carter is his own superhero, with his “Papa”, Jerry Davis, following right behind him.

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.

Carter had been experiencing pain and medical attention from Juvenile Ankylosing Spondylitis since July 2013, but he was diagnosed with JIA on January 6, 2014. Facing a life-long disease as a young boy is tough for Carter and his family, but this superhero doesn’t let his disease get him down.

Carter is a “shining force, radiating happiness and hope that he shares with everyone who touches his life,” according to his family. He has a big heart and a silly personality. He is also a curious boy who constantly seeks knowledge and has an amazing memory. At his recent preschool graduation, Carter told the crowd that he wants to be a scientist and study volcanoes when he grows up.

Carter and his family have high hopes that he will be able to do just that, since the treatment he is currently on has helped give him relief from the everyday pain he was experiencing. According to his grandfather, Jerry Davis, aka “Papa”, Carter is doing much better today than he was at this time last year. His latest treatment still involves a trip to Loma Linda Hospital once a month for an all-day infusion treatment, but Carter has gotten used to them, for the most part, and he hardly complains, according to Davis.

In order to raise funds and awareness of JIA, Davis will be participating in the 15th Annual California

Photo Courtesy: Jerry Davis Carter and his “Papa” at last year’s California Coast Classic 525 Mile Ride For A Cure.

Photo Courtesy: Jerry Davis
Carter and his “Papa” at last year’s California Coast Classic 525 Mile Ride For A Cure.

Coast Classic 525 Mile Ride For A Cure, hosted by the Arthritis Foundation. Last year, as a first-year individual rider, Davis raised just over $13,000. This year, Davis founded “Team Carter,” which currently has 46 registered riders participating. At press time, Team Carter is the top fundraising team at $90,000.

“Our goal is $125,000, and with three months to go, I’m hoping we can reach that goal,” said Davis.

All funds will be donated to the Arthritis Foundation to further the search for a cure.

Carter’s family also wants to give a big thank you to the Arthritis Foundation for all they have done for him. The foundation helped Carter find his current doctor at Loma Linda Hospital, who was able to find a successful treatment.

Davis says that the Arthritis Foundation also honored Carter as the official “Finish Line Juvenal Arthritis Honoree” of last year’s CCC Ride For A Cure. They are also sending Carter and his whole family to this year’s Juvenile Arthritis Conference, later this month in Florida.

“Our family is very grateful to the Arthritis Foundation and that is another reason why I, as Carter’s grandfather, will be involved in the ride every year for a long time to come. I believe in this organization and I am thankful for what they do,” said Davis.

To donate to Carter’s personal fundraiser, please visit www.525m4Carter.com.  To join Team Carter, visit www.TeamCarter525m4aCure.com. To follow the team and Carter on this journey, LIKE their Facebook at www.facebook.com/525miles4Carter. If you would like more information about this cause, you can email 525m4Carter@gmail.com.

Eastvale City Council Recap

By Emily Aguilar

Eastvale – The June 10 City Council meeting was an intense one, complete with debates and worried expressions. The meeting began at 6 p.m., with Pastor Rob Norris of the Crossings church leading the group in prayer.

Before the meeting formally began, the Council had a 50-minute closed session where they discussed two litigation cases pursuant to Section 5495.9. The Council stated that there were no significant details to be presented at the moment.

With regard to Public Safety, discussion addressed the importance for the City to regulate certain commercial vehicles. It was argued that because of the heavy construction occurring in Eastvale, it was necessary to collaborate with other cities to define what vehicles are allowed to be on the road during construction.  There are two plans to adopt an appropriate code, and the Council agreed to speak about the plans in detail at a later date.

Next the Council recognized ERHS graduate, Jakob Rivera, who has served as the Student Liaison for the past year.  After Rivera was congratulated by the Council, the meeting continued with the announcement of upcoming events, including the informal tour of Reagan Elementary on June 23 (the school will “officially” open on Aug. 28); Picnic in the Park, that runs the weekend of June 26 to 28; and the Eastvale Golf Tournament to be held on Aug. 21.

There was no student liaison report.

Moving on to Public Comments, Linda Ceron from the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce took the floor to announce a Business Expo on Aug. 19 at the Eastvale Community Center.  More information on this event will be forthcoming.

Focusing on the Consent Calendar, the Council motioned to approve the meeting minutes for May 27.

For Public Hearings, Waste Management discussed increasing their rates for 2015-16 because of increases in consumer prices and green waste disposal fees.  Monthly fees will increase by $0.21.  The Council motioned approval of the decision.   The discussion then moved on to Project No. 14-1398, a plan to construct a series of homes on the northwest corner of Limonite and Harrison avenues. Originally, the blueprints allowed the plan to be set for a series of single-family homes. After some reconsideration, Stratham Homes decided to change the General Plan Amendment to include two types of single-family homes. Eastvale’s Planning Director, Eric Norris, presented the Council with three ideas for the new homes, one of which would involve 6 to 8 homes allotted onto 2,000 square feet of land, all of which would be sharing one driveway. While Norris argued the new homes would bring more citizens, there were others who argued the new homes in general would bring problems, such as additional traffic and more overflow to already impacted schools.  However, Norris upheld his belief that the houses – which would take more than two years to complete – will not cause serious problems in the City.  Also, the current Tentative Tract Map was discarded, and revisions will be discussed and updated at a later date.

There were no Old Business items.

Moving on to New Business, the Council approved resolutions for the 2015-16 fiscal year, including a new engineering design for the proposed City Hall;  WLC Architects, Inc. will be working with Eastvale City Hall Architectural and Engineering Services.  Council agreed to eventually focus on adjusting certain speed limits in the City.  The revision of landscaping regulations was not approved since the plan would not necessarily help with the conservation of water.

After New Business items, the meeting adjourned.

The June 24 City Council meeting began at 6:30 p.m., and Pastor Dennis Morales from Calvary Chapel lead the group in prayer.  Councilmen Joe Tessari and Clint Lorimore were not in attendance.

The session began with Presentations and Announcements. Mayor Pro Tem, William Link, presented a Certificate of Recognition to Jasmyne Graham, the ERHS graduate who recently became the Gatorade California Girls Track & Field Athlete of the Year.  Graham, who works to be the “best she can,” excels in the 400 meter relay and 100 meter long jump, and was the 2014 track and field captain at ERHS. She will be attending USC this fall as a student athlete. Afterward, the Eastvale Community Foundation stated that they successfully brought the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) Scholarship to a close, awarding $10,000 in scholarship money to Eastvale students. Although there were complications that caused the program to reach its deadline prematurely, CDBG was still able to give money to students who had applied. The Foundation also announced the Amazon Smiles Program, which is a donation program set up through Amazon.com.

The Council was then introduced to Battalion Chief Justin Scribner, who was recently employed by the Eastvale Fire Department. Scribner, who has been a Fire Captain in Riverside County since 1996, said he was “honored” to work in a “progressive new city.”

The Student Liaison Report was presented by soon-to-be ERHS senior, Julia Sung, who briefly announced that elementary schools in the district will be holding award ceremonies and promotions in late June, and River Heights was looking for donations to fund their Positive Behavior Pizza Party.

Moving on to Public Comments, Joel Seigler from the Eastvale Chamber of Commerce addressed his concerns on traffic safety in his neighborhood. He stated that due to an opening in his neighborhood, commercial vehicles have been passing through to make deliveries on his residential street.  Seigler expressed concern for the safety of children who enjoy playing in the street. The Council agreed to discuss this in further detail to come up with a solution at a later date. Next, was Bob Velker from the Chamber who announced that the Eastvale Business Expo is “a work in progress” to be set up in July. Velker said the Expo would partner with JCSD and San Antonio Medical Hospital to offer business opportunities to the public. The event will be held at the Eastvale Community Center. Noel Reyes with GM Realty then spoke on behalf of his wife to present the idea of organizing a music festival with Lewis Homes, with proceeds going to the City.  The Council agreed to look into the idea at a later date.

Three council members were absent, so the Consent Calendar was bypassed.

During Public Hearings, Council discussed the possibility of adopting a resolution to confirm a diagram for a landscaping and lighting project, which was approved.

Old Business was also bypassed, and Council moved on to New Business. The first item was a plan to repave Schleisman Road which is currently surfaced with alligator cracking, meaning that the pavement is deteriorating at alarming rates.  Construction crews will add new striping between July 13 and Aug. 21.  The project is estimated at $400,000, but the lowest bid from Hardy & Harper, Inc. came in at $333,000.  The Council approved the awarding of the contract to Hardy & Harper, Inc. and authorized the City Manager to execute the necessary documents.  The next item was a recommendation to seek a vendor to provide scanning services for the City.  There are currently 100 boxes of planning documents that need to be scanned. The project could take six months to complete and end up costing around $50,000.  The Council did not approve this recommendation.  Then, the possible adoption of a new recreational vehicle ordinance was presented, allowing RVs to park in certain locations for 72 hours – a 24-hour extension to the current limit.  Since Mayor Bootsma had originally presented the idea, the Council decided to wait for his return to further discuss it. The Council then considered an agreement with OpenGov.com, which would allow citizens to access finance documents for City projects.  The Council agreed to look into the possibilities within the next month.  Finally there was discussion about the purchase of City motorcycles and equipment, and BMW of Riverside was approved as the contact.

The meeting adjourned at 7:47 pm.

Eastvale: School Is In Session

Ronald Reagan Elementary Opens July 6

Photo Courtesy: K.P. Sander

Photo Courtesy: K.P. Sander

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – On Tues., June 23, Ronald Reagan Elementary School opened its doors to citizens of Eastvale with an invitation to tour the nearly completed facility and gain a glimpse of what many students in the City’s southwest quadrant would be able to enjoy in just a few weeks time.

Located at 8300 Fieldmaster Street (off Archibald Avenue), Reagan Elementary has technically driven, state-of-the-art classrooms, a beautiful library central to the interior of the school, a bright multi-purpose room complete with stage, and spacious outdoor areas with enticing playground equipment.

Tracks A, C and D in the Corona-Norco Unified School District began the new school year on July 6, and the beautiful, brand new school has much to offer the lucky students who get to enjoy their fresh and innovative surroundings.

While the official Ribbon Cutting ceremony won’t take place until late August, Reagan Elementary is officially open for business.  The much needed addition to the CNUSD family will take some of the over-crowding pressure off nearby schools in Eastvale.

And, of course, there is nothing like starting a brand new school year, in a brand new school.  Just think of the possibilities!

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

Information courtesy of the City of Eastvale

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

 

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

Dominic Fights To Dominate Cancer

“When all is said and done, what is done is more important than what is said.”

Photo Courtesy: Cindy Chenelia Dominic Valentine with Carley and Sam Chenelia

Photo Courtesy: Cindy Chenelia
Dominic Valentine with Carley and Sam Chenelia

By Jennifer Jester-Madrigal

Eastvale – If you live in Eastvale, chances are you have run into Dominic Valentine at some point. Many owe their fitter physiques to the killer workouts she leads from her garage boot camp, and others know her from her active participation in our community. But what many don’t know is that Dominic’s life changed completely on New Year’s Day of this year.

While prepping for the events of the day, Dominic decided to go for a quick walk with a friend while her husband, Fred Valentine, Jr., stayed busy around the house. When they returned, Dominic told her husband that while on the walk she had had a seizure. They rushed her to the local hospital, and spent the weekend undergoing tests before eventually being sent to UCI for further evaluation. After an MRI, and even more consults with doctors, it was discovered that Dominic had a brain tumor that would need to be removed.

Before this surgery could be done, however, Dominic had to have electrodes put on her brain to map the seizure activity. She was immediately admitted into UCI Medical Center. After the electrode procedure occurred, the time came to remove the actual tumor. That surgery left her with no mobility on her right side, but the staff at UCI advised Dominic and her husband that this was only temporary.

Friends and family who visited Dominic were continually inspired by her perseverance and determination to regain her strength and mobility. As a person who is normally up every day at 4:15 a.m. to run a boot camp, nothing was going to hold Dominic back. To stay inspired, she posted her personal training quote in her room:  “When all is said and done, what is done is more important than what is said.”

With the help of family, and devoted “boot-campers,” Dominic worked on stretching and therapy independently, before and after the medical staff’s treatments. Dominic’s husband, Fred, recalls, “The staff explained what was required of Dominic and answered our questions. Once Dominic saw that she could move her fingers, she brightened up and her confidence lifted.”

After several days in surgical recovery, Dominic had more mobility in her arm and she was able to stand on both legs. At that time, it was decided to move her to the rehabilitation unit. While she was still unable to dress herself or perform other basic functions without assistance, Dominic fought on. She eventually learned how to bathe and dress and soon was able to walk up and down stairs.

Dominic fought like a champ and was recently released from rehab.  She came home to a large group of friends and family with signs and balloons welcoming her back. Dominic even made it to the Eastvale Relay for Life on Apr. 18.

Our local community has once again rallied around one of its own and provided the Valentines with support, love, meals and prayers. Dominic has just completed three weeks of radiation and is preparing for 48 weeks of chemotherapy.  In her words, she is “ready to kick this in the butt!”

Culture Night At ERHS

Students in camaraderie, singing “Lean On Me.” (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

Students in camaraderie, singing “Lean On Me.” (Photo By: Emily Aguilar)

By Emily Aguilar

 

Eastvale – Because of its diverse alumni, Eleanor Roosevelt High School ensures that each student is given the opportunity to embrace not only the cultures of others, but that of their own as well. This environment has allowed cultures to blend with one another like peaches and cream, unifying ERHS into a strong student body.

 

In order to pay homage to these various cultures, ERHS’s prominent club, CSF (California Scholarship Federation), held its bi-annual Culture Night festival on Dec. 4.

 

Culture Night is a show meant to represent students’ traditional cultural practices through artistic performances. Before 6 p.m., the Mustang Theater was filled with supportive family and friends who wanted to see their loved ones represent their culture.

 

The evening began with a slideshow of students speaking about their cultures and giving the audience a preview of their performances. Following this introduction, the fun began. The performances in dance ranged from Folkloric, to the Chinese Ribbon Dance, to Polynesian and American jazz; and songs were performed from Korea and the Philippines.

 

Among the performances, one of the most memorable was the Bhangra Dance, which electrified the audience with its upbeat tempo and passionate movement. After captivating the audience with his group, one of the dancers, Shukan Patel stated, “I feel as if the audience was able to feel the energy and pride of the Indian culture through the fast-paced, coordinated moves to traditional music. I feel as if this performance allowed for the audience to experience the Punjabi festival of Vaisakhi’s (Harvest Festival) joy through our dance performance.”

 

Before the evening ended, CSF Coordinator, Frank Mata, went on stage and spoke to the audience about how working at ERHS as an AP Language and Composition teacher has introduced him to stupendous students. He expressed his admiration toward his students, because in spite of their stress with college and grades, they never fail to lose touch with who they are.

 

“I am proud of them – they’re not just students at that point. They become respectable young men and women who make it their privilege to pay homage to their culture in this all too foreign land,” Mata said.

 

After his small speech, Mata invited all of the performers on stage to sing Bill Withers’ famous song, “Lean On Me.” Captivated by the unification of their friends and children, the audience joined in and become a single voice, giving an appropriate ending to the evening.

Eastvale’s Search For A City Manager

By Jennifer Jester-Madrigal

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale is looking to find a City Manager. According to the City’s website, “The new City Manager will be a dedicated public servant who supports and implements the policies of the City Council, understands and supports Eastvale’s community values and will maintain the City’s high quality of life while proactively and effectively spearheading economic development.”
Candidates were encouraged to apply for the position by Jan. 6 and need to have either City Manager/Senior Level experience with either a contract or full service city, and a stable four-year employment history. A Bachelor’s Degree is required; a Master’s Degree is preferred. The salary will be based on qualifications and ultimately decided by the Eastvale City Council.

The permanent position of City Manager has been vacant since Carol Jacob resigned last year. Previous City Manager, Robert Van Nort, has been filling the position since September 2014. Assistant City Manager, Michele Nissen, also stepped into fill the position while Van Nort was on medical leave for a short time.

In an effort to learn more about what the residents of Eastvale desire in a City Manager, the Eastvale News conducted a brief survey on Facebook to find out more.

One of the questions asked was, “What characteristics should a City Manager have?” The most popular answer was that they should be a resident of the City, with a high degree in education (or be in the process of achieving one).

Another question asked, was “How much money do you think the City Manager should make?” Previous City Manager Jacobs made about $206,000 annually, whereas the average City Manager makes about $219,000, but there are variables to consider. The most common response was $150,000, and many felt that with the size of Eastvale, a larger salary was not necessary. Others felt that our city can’t afford to pay more than that and still maintain the quality and the services that are needed in the City.

Sometimes, averages in salaries aren’t necessarily comparing apples to apples. Eastvale utilizes an outside water district and parks/recreation department; two significant areas of accountability that many other City Managers oversee. Without those key responsibilities, perhaps Eastvale citizens are correct in their opinions on a lesser salary.

In two other cities that were recently incorporated, just like Eastvale, the City Manager salaries seem to be more in line with popular opinion. In nearby Jurupa Valley, Interim City Manager, Gary Thompson, makes about $150,000. In the City of Menifee, City Manager, Robert Johnson, makes $175,000 annually.

One issue that seemed to be at the forefront of what residents thought the new City Manager should focus on, is Traffic. Eastvale seems to be plagued with traffic issues mainly centering on speeding and pedestrian safety. Although the City and Law Enforcement have made big strides in working to ease the problems, many residents still feel that this is a major issue. Many citizens feel that “too many big rigs use our streets as their personal thoroughfares,” and that “we need an ordinance limiting the weight of vehicles within City limits”.

Others feel that Finances are a major issue and that the City Manager needs to “make this City financially stable and keep our costs down so we can hire our own police department”.
For others, the focus should be on crime. According to one citizen, “If we focus on crime, it will cover a lot of the other problems as well”.

The difference with a city like Eastvale versus many others is that Eastvale citizens are involved and vocal. Most citizens just seem to want a safe and sound city where they can raise their children and send them to our wonderful schools.

Thank you to all those who responded to the Facebook poll, and best wishes to Eastvale’s future “Chief Executive Officer,” whoever you are!

To view the details of the job description and brochure, visit the Employment Page on the City of Eastvale website: http://www.eastvaleca.gov.

K.P. Sander contributed to this story.

Eastvale Boys In Supercross Challenge

Mikey Wayne and Jett Lessing airborne. (Photo By: Kimberly Lessing)

Caption: Mikey Wayne and Jett Lessing airborne. (Photo By: Kimberly Lessing)

By Kimberly Lessing

Eastvale – Two local Eastvale boys will compete in the KTM Junior Supercross Challenge at Anaheim Stadium this month.

Mikey Wayne, a 2nd Grade student at Clara Barton Elementary, will represent Eastvale and race the KTM Junior Challenge on Jan. 17; and Jett Lessing, a 3rd Grade student at Rosa Parks Elementary, will race on Jan. 31.

KTM North America, Inc., located in Murrieta, provides an amazing experience for youth racers to compete in the KTM Junior Supercross Challenge (KJSC) Program, the popular intermission show of the Monster Energy AMA Supercross, an FIM World Championship. In order to qualify for the KJSC, the racers must have at least one year of racing experience, excel in school, and meet specific height and weight requirements.

The KJSC is an exciting intermission program where 15 selected youth riders race aboard KTM 50 SXS motorcycles at select Monster Energy AMA Supercross events all over the nation. Throughout the day, riders get to go on a track walk, participate in two practice sessions, sign autographs for their fans, be introduced during opening ceremonies and race a three-lap exhibition race during the Supercross night program.

“This is truly a once in a lifetime opportunity for the boys and we are excited to cheer for Mikey and Jett as they represent Eastvale!” said Jenna Wayne, Mikey’s mother.

Children from all over the world apply to compete in this event, and it is extremely rare that two boys from Eastvale were able to qualify and be selected.
Mikey and Jett train and race weekly at local motocross venues in Riverside and San Bernardino counties. While the boys battle each other on the track, they are great friends off the track and even train together with legendary motorcycle coach, Kelly Yancey, of Kelly Yancey Motocross Training (www.kellyyancey.com).
With the support of their friends, families, sponsors, and Coach Yancey, the boys are ready to take on Supercross at Anaheim Stadium! You can follow Mikey and Jett on their exciting adventure on Instagram (@MikeyWayne999 and @JettLessing) or on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/Mwayne999 and http://www.facebook.com/JettLessing.

Mikey Wayne’s Sponsors include: OC KTM, Dunlop, Nost Suspension, Intuitive Race Products, Factory Effex DWC Motorsports, GDG Builders, Orange County Locksmith, Accurate Circuit Engineering, Nihilo Concepts, R&D Racing, Atlas Brace, Spy Optics, Streamline Brakes, One Industries, Choice Hotels, Bell Helmets, ASV, Lucas Oil, and Pax Racing.

Jett Lessing’s Sponsors include: Troy Lee Designs, Malcolm Smith Motorsports, EKS Brand Goggles, 6D Helmets, Lucas Oil, Dunlop Tires, Nihilo Concepts, Risk Racing, Factory Backing, Engine Ice, ODI Grips, Sunset Sign Designs, Nost Suspension, Midpoint Bearing and RJforklift.com.

Eastvale: New Acting City Manager Selected

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale

Staff Reports

Eastvale – During the closed session discussion at the Sept. 10 City Council Meeting, council members unanimously selected Robert Van Nort to serve as Eastvale’s Acting City Manager. Van Nort’s term as Acting City Manager becomes effective immediately.

Van Nort served as the City’s first Interim City Manager immediately following incorporation in October 2010. Under Van Nort’s prior leadership, the City was able to weather the loss of the Vehicle License Fee in July 2011 without drastically cutting critical services to the citizens of Eastvale. Despite the significant loss of general fund revenue, Van Nort laid a solid foundation of financial stability by taking aggressive cost-savings measures and creating a dedicated, hardworking team environment at City Hall.

Van Nort brings over 30 years of city management experience to Eastvale, including 11 assignments as Interim City Manager across the United States. He has previously managed the cities of Eastvale, Big Bear Lake, Diamond Bar, Chino Hills, and Snow Valley, Idaho to name a few.

The City staff is very excited to have Van Nort return to the helm at City Hall to continue implementing the successful policy vision of the City Council.

“We are really glad to have Bob back,” said Mayor Ike Bootsma. “He knows the City well and he will provide seamless, sound and uninterrupted management of the City. With Bob, there is no need to train anyone, no down time and we gain his invaluable experience and expertise.”

Eastvale City Manager Resigns

Carol Jacobs

Carol Jacobs

By Jennifer Madrigal

Eastvale – During the closed session portion of last night’s City Council Meeting, City Manager, Carol Jacobs, abruptly resigned, effective immediately. According to City Attorney, John Cavanaugh, he will serve as the City Manager until the next City Council meeting on Sept. 10.

At that meeting council members will announce an interim person until a permanent City Manager can be selected. The decision to appoint the City Attorney as next-in-command was a decision made just recently at the Aug. 13 council meeting; a motion that was moved by councilmember William Link and passed with a 3-1 vote (with council members Welch abstaining, and Mayor Pro-Team Adam rush voting No).
Councilmember Link said, “We are sad to see Carol go and wish her the best in any future endeavors she plans to pursue.”

According to Link, the City Council will begin reviewing applicants for the position and will hire an interim City Manager for 60 to 90 days while they finalize the ideal candidate choice. This will take place after the City posts the position, which according to Public Information Officer, Michele Nissen, should take a few weeks.
According to Nissen, the City cannot provide information about matters that happen during closed sessions, however, the City wishes Jacobs the best.

Mayor Pro-Tem Adam Rush said, “Carol is a great City Manager and devoted everything to establishing the City’s solid foundation. I wish her the best and know she will succeed in her career as a City Administrator.”
Carol Jacobs has been the City Manager for Eastvale just shy of two years, and made approximately $204,000, plus benefits.

Photo Courtesy: City of Eastvale

EASTVALE: Heartbreak for Eastvale

Troy Davids, one of the two Eastvale residents killed in two separate accidents. Photo courtesy: Facebook

Troy Davids, one of the two Eastvale residents killed in two separate accidents.
Photo courtesy: Facebook

By Jennifer Madrigal

On the weekend of April 25, the deaths of two Eastvale residents, occurring just a day apart, have rocked the city. A young man who was reportedly on his way home from work was killed while crossing the street. The next evening, another Eastvale man was killed when a fun ride to show off his new off-road vehicle (ORV) went tragically wrong.

Early Friday morning, Troy Davids, 21, was on his way home from work when he was killed near the intersection of Hamner and Limonite. Deputies assigned to the area were called to the scene of a major injury collision on the west side of the intersection. According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the preliminary investigation revealed that a black sedan was travelling westbound on Limonite when it collided with a bicyclist, who was southbound on Hamner Avenue in the west crosswalk. The driver of the sedan fled the scene and police are currently searching for the driver. Davids was transported to a regional hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.

Troy Davids, a 2010 graduate of Norco High School, is described by a member of the Eastvale News Facebook page as “having a heart of gold and a smile to match. Words cannot describe the loss of Troy.” Another person described him as being “a wonderful young man who was a friend to everyone”. Troy worked at the local Von’s supermarket where he was loved and admired by his co-workers and will be greatly missed.

According to the City of Eastvale, the investigation is ongoing and the Sheriff’s Department is looking over video footage from nearby businesses in an effort to help gather more information and evidence about the hit-and-run suspect.

The very next evening, April 26, four men were taking a ride in an ORV in the empty dirt field located on the northeast side of the intersection at Sumner and Limonite avenues. While making a turn, the vehicle flipped and the driver was pinned underneath. Timothy Michael Hunt was found by Sheriff’s Deputies under the Polaris ORV. He was transported to a hospital where he died from his injuries. Another passenger was hospitalized for non-life threatening injuries, and the remaining two passengers were treated at the scene.

Hunt, a native of Yorba Linda, played three seasons of independent professional baseball. According to the Sioux City Journal, he was a 2007 member of Team USA, a team that finished second at the World Cup of Softball. Some residents remember him as an “amazingly generous guy” and a very special person who was newly married. Supposedly, he had been showing his new ORV off to his friends when the tragic accident occurred. According to the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, alcohol is suspected to be a factor in this incident.

Eastvale: ATM Machine Attempted Theft Suspects In Eastvale and Hemet Caught

Image
Courtesy City of Eastvale

Date Written: April 17, 2014 Time Written: 10:00 AM 
Date of Incident: April 3 and April 6, 2014 Time of Incident: 4:40 AM 
Location of Incident: 6000 Block of Hamner Avenue, Eastvale 
Reporting Officer: Sergeant Vanessa Sloniker 
File Number: EV140930004 and EV140960004 

On Thursday, April 3, and Sunday April 6, 2014, officers assigned to the Eastvale Police Department responded to the Chase Bank in reference to an attempted theft of the stand-alone ATM machine. Detectives assigned to the Eastvale Police Department assumed the investigation and later determined a separate ATM theft in the city of Hemet that occurred on April 11, 2014 at the 1800 block of East Florida Avenue was also committed by the same suspects. In a collaborative effort between the Eastvale Detectives and the Hemet Police Department the two suspects were located in the city of Riverside. Due to the more serious crime of grand theft, occurring in the Hemet Police Department’s jurisdiction they assumed the investigation and the following suspects were arrested and booked into the Southwest Detention Center for both the attempted thefts in Eastvale and the grand theft in Hemet: 

Ernest Brandon Causey, a 26 year old resident of Riverside was arrested for vehicle theft, conspiracy, grand theft, attempted grand theft and an outstanding misdemeanor warrant for petty theft. Causey is being held on $167,000 bail. 

Thomas Carlton Wilson, a 38 year old transient of Riverside was arrested for vehicle theft, conspiracy, grand theft, attempted grand theft and violation of parole. Wilson is currently being held without bail. 

Anyone with additional information on this case is encouraged to contact Eastvale Detective, Ted Gonzales by calling (951) 955-2600.

Citizens may also submit an anonymous tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.

(Photo by Bree Pressler Dennis)

Eastvale: Distracted Driving Enforcement

Eastvale, CA (April 9, 2014) – As part of April’s Distracted Driving Awareness Month campaign, the Eastvale PoliceDistracted Driving MonthDepartment will be joining with over 200 other local law enforcement agencies and the California Highway Patrol in a month long “zero tolerance” enforcement and education campaign to curb those texting or operating handheld cell phones while driving.

The Eastvale Police Department conducted a special high visibility enforcement operation to cite cell phone violators in the area of Rosa Parks Elementary School and Augustine Ramirez Intermediate School.

As a direct result of the operation, 29 drivers were cited for various unsafe driving actions.  The violations cited included cell phone violations, crosswalk right of way violations, seatbelt violations, red light violations, and unlicensed driver violations. One vehicle was stored during the operation.

The increased enforcement and education aims to persuade drivers to recognize the dangers of distracted driving and reduce the number of people impacted by this perilous behavior. The “It’s Not Worth It!” theme emphasizes that a phone call or text isn’t worth a hefty fine or a collision. The current minimum ticket cost is $161, with subsequent tickets costing at least $281.

“We take the issue of distracted driving very seriously,” said Eastvale Police Lt. Mike Yates, “because we see the aftermath of these totally preventable crashes. Is that text message or cell phone call really worth $161, or worse, someone’s life?”

Drivers who use hand-held devices are four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves.  In addition, studies show that texting while driving can delay a driver’s reaction time just as severely as having a blood alcohol content of a legally drunk driver. According to research, sending or receiving a text takes a driver’s eyes from the road for an average of 4.6 seconds.  Even a three second glance at freeway speeds means a driver has traveled the distance of a football field.

Research shows that there is no difference in the risks between hands-free and hand-held cell phone conversations, both of which can result in “inattention blindness” which occurs when the brain isn’t seeing what is clearly visible because the drivers’ focus is on the phone conversation and not on the road.  When over one third of your brain’s functioning that should be on your driving moves over to cell phone talking, you can become a cell phone “zombie.”

Join the City of Eastvale in our support for the “It’s Not Worth it Campaign!”  Cell phones, texting. It’s not worth it. It’s just that simple.

Resources from the California Office of Traffic Safety:http://ots.ca.gov/Media_and_Research/Campaigns/Distracted_Driving.asp

Distracted Driving Fact Sheet (pdf)
Printable Distracted Driving Tip Card (pdf)
Printable Pledge Card (pdf)

Release and Image Courtesy of City of Eastvale