Dear Friends and Second District Residents,
Now that we have passed the one-year mark of the pandemic and 1,000,000 vaccines have been administered to Riverside County residents, we need to focus on moving forward. We need to not forget nor erase what we as a county, country and world have gone through but it’s a good time to take a deep breath and evaluate the events that have occurred. We have much to learn from it and even more to gain.
This should be an on-going conversation because the pandemic has touched each of us differently. I will mention a few things that have been brought to my attention in our district. There are some areas where the pandemic continues to have a severe impact and there are some experiencing positive outcomes.
Although a challenge at times, we have worked to follow the California “Blueprint for a Safer Economy” as we reopen (https://covid19.ca.gov/safer-economy/ ). We are currently in the Red Tier which is listed as a “substantial risk” level. If our COVID-19 metrics continue trending downward this next week, we should move to the Orange Tier on April 6, which is listed as “moderate risk” level. This means that more business can open and indoor business operations can open with modifications.
As we return to work, some are finding difficulties with the use of public transportation. As the ridership decreased dramatically during this past year, both buses and commuter trains were forced to reduce routes and the number of buses/trains in the system. There have been stimulus bills that provided assistance to the transit operators, but not enough to bring the systems back to “normal”, yet.
What we did find during this time is that with so many forced to work from home, internet connectivity and access as well as other technologies have become highly demanded. Many employers have found that employees are just as productive in this new remote environment as they were in the office, resulting in telecommuting and working remotely becoming the new “normal” for many businesses.
Zoom, Webex, Microsoft Teams, FaceTime, and many other internet tools have helped us to engage with our friends, family, and work like never before. Even telemedicine and telehealth have become more accepted. I’m sure we will see continued usage of all of these in various capacities. Despite all these technological advancements, we cannot have these tools replace our authentic interactions with others – especially our children and our elderly. Although some remain hesitant and rightly so, I’m personally happy to see many of our children returning to in-person learning, sports being played, and graduations being planned, cautiously and with the necessary safety precautions in place.
It has been very heartwarming to hear such touching stories of courage, resilience, and kindness from people in our district. There are so many stories of acts of kindness and stepping up to help neighbors, support healthcare workers, and frontline workers. Food drives have expanded, and the year anniversary of “For the People Task Force” is the first weekend in April. Volunteerism is on the rise and that shows the true heart of America – people helping people!
During the shutdown and the slow re-opening we could go outside, take a walk, and enjoy our parks. Our family has continued our daily walks as a regular activity. Not only has this been a great exercise routine, it has been wonderful family time! Some of our neighbors have watched our family routine this past year and I’m happy to share that many others have taken up this activity in their homes.
It has been heartening to see the many businesses and organizations that chose to fight back this past year by reinventing themselves while others were able to weather the storm. Sadly, not all were so fortunate. The county worked hard to provide grants and loans to help our business community. I heard employees share that the “Boss” worked to protect the employees and continue to serve the community. Now we look to the community to continue supporting our local businesses as we progress through the reopening.
There have been other issues, but we will save them for another time. This past year has really made me ponder many things. A very important one thing to ponder is that we cannot know where we are headed if we don’t reflect on where we came from. This relates to our businesses, but more importantly it reflects upon ourselves. That means don’t keep looking in the rear-view mirror or you may crash. We must take time to understand our roots, our ancestry, our heritage and we must open our minds and hearts to others in order to learn from our actions. If we don’t like what we see, it’s not too late to make changes.
As you start the month of April, think about what you have learned during this pandemic and what the pandemic has taught you about yourself. I’m sure if we take time to embrace the silence of our own thoughts, we will find this reflective moment of self-care infinitely rewarding and enriching in ways you had never imagined. Enjoy your time, stop and smell the roses. There are hidden treasures all around.
The Riverside County Second District Supervisor’s office Staff are available Monday-Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. to assist you. You can reach my office by calling (951) 955-1020 or by emailing District2@rivco.org and staff will assist you promptly.
I hope you enjoy this e-newsletter. Please reach out to my office if we may be of assistance.
Sincerely,
Board Chair Karen Spiegel
Second District Supervisor
COVID-19 VACCINE ELIGIBILITY EXPANDED TO THOSE 50 AND OLDER IN RIVERSIDE COUNTY STARTING TODAY
Riverside County is expanding eligibility for those who want to get vaccinated against COVID-19 to include individuals 50 and older beginning today (April 1). Those who want to get vaccinated must also live or work in Riverside County.
“As eligibility widens and more of our residents become protected from the virus, we’ll continue to see declining COVID numbers and an ongoing focus on community recovery,” said Board Chair Karen Spiegel, Second District Supervisor. “If you are eligible, get the shot.”
Vaccine eligibility is based on the state’s rollout tiers.
Those under 50 are eligible to be vaccinated if they are employed in the following job categories: healthcare workers; long-term care residents; agriculture and food workers; educators and childcare workers; emergency services workers, transportation workers, utility workers and janitors.
The state recently expanded the vaccination eligibility to include those at higher risk for COVID-19 due to underlying health conditions. The underlying health conditions include cancer, Down syndrome, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, chronic pulmonary disease, pregnancy, severe obesity and heart conditions.
More than 1 million doses – both first and second doses -- have been administered to Riverside County residents through the county-run clinics and those operated by more than 200 community providers.
To make an appointment, click www.rivcoph.org/covid-19-vaccine. Seniors or others needing assistance to make an appointment can call 2-1-1. The average wait time at 2-1-1 is under five minutes.
RIVERSIDE COUNTY, PARTNERS ADMINISTER ONE MILLION VACCINES TO RESIDENTS AND WORKERS
Today Riverside County reached an important milestone in its mission to provide COVID-19 vaccines to most Riverside County residents and workers, with more than one million vaccines administered.
Shirlley Ann Gruenke, a 65-year-old resident of Cherry Valley, represented the millionth dose with cheers and fanfare from the nurses and staff at the Albert A. Chatigny Senior Community Center in Beaumont. “It was a surprise, but I sure thank you all,” said Gruenke, a retired nurse. “You know, I went back and forth saying I was not going to get the shot, but when I got COVID in December and I felt sick, I said I’m ready for it. I’m getting my shot.”
Shortly after COVID-19 vaccine became available, Riverside County activated its Incident Management Team to coordinate distribution of vaccinations to its residents and those who work in the county. Currently there are four county-run vaccination clinics and more than 230 private providers.
“I am impressed by the work of so many to reach one million vaccinations,” said Public Health Officer Geoffrey Leung. “The county team has vaccinated people in clinics, cars, tents, trailers and in the agricultural fields. We still have work ahead of us, but we are on our way to protect the residents of Riverside County from this deadly disease.”
Additionally, the county operates six mobile vaccination teams to reach people at their place of work or closer within their communities. The mobile vaccination teams will expand to reach even more residents soon.
“Achieving one million vaccinations administered is an impressive feat considering the limited number of vaccines provided to the county in the beginning of the vaccine rollout,” said Chair Spiegel, Second District Supervisor. “As eligibility expands, we will continue our goal of reaching the majority of our population and recovering from the pandemic.”
For more information on vaccinations, please visit: https://www.rivcoph.org/COVID-19-Vaccine.
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NEW FUNDING ROUNDS ANNOUNCED FOR THE CALIFORNIA SMALL BUSINESS COVID-19 RELIEF GRANT PROGRAM
Round 5: Thursday, March 25th through Wednesday, March 31st
- Eligible applicants: current waitlisted small businesses and non-profits not selected in Rounds 1, 2, or 3 and new applicants that meet eligibility criteria found at CAReliefGrant.com
- Eligible grant award: $5,000 – $25,000
- Details: Applicants not selected to receive a grant in Rounds 1, 2, & 3 do not need to reapply as they will be automatically moved into Round 5. New applicants will need to apply at CAReliefGrant.com
Round 6: Date to be announced soon
- Eligible applicants: current waitlisted small businesses and/or non-profits not selected in Rounds 1, 2, 3, 4 or 5 and new applicants that meet eligibility criteria found at CAReliefGrant.com
- Eligible grant award: $5,000 – $25,000
- Details: Applicants not selected to receive a grant in Rounds 1, 2, 3 & 5 do not need to re-apply and will be automatically moved into Round 6. New applicants will need to apply at CAReliefGrant.com
The California Small Business COVID-19 Relief Grant Program is administered by CalOSBA through a competitive bid award to its intermediary, Lendistry, and its statewide network of community-based lenders and partners. Many of the state-supported small business centers, which prioritize the expansion of technical assistance to underserved business groups, are also available to help small businesses with the application process in multiple languages and formats.
For more information on grant requirements and eligibility, along with links to application tips and webinars, visit CAReliefGrant.com.
RIVERSIDE COUNTY OFFERS UP TO $1,000 PER UNIT TO LANDLORDS WHO HELP FAMILIES
Program aims to benefit struggling households and landlords during the pandemic
Riverside County officials announced this week that landlords who rent their units to families participating in the CalWORKS Housing Support Program may qualify for a $1,000 incentive.
The Housing Support Program helps families with children find stable housing while receiving workforce training and supportive services during the pandemic. Officials say they want to house at least 200 families before the program expires at the end of June.
“The increasing cost of rent has had a deep impact on the wellbeing of families in our communities and across the country,” said Allison Gonzalez, assistant director of the Self Sufficiency Division at the Riverside County Department of Public Social Services, which administers the programs.
“A tightening housing market and the economic fallout from the pandemic have increased housing challenges. We are glad our organization is here to help families and landlords find a match,” Gonzalez said. Landlords and/or CalWORKS customers interested in the incentives and supportive services should contact the CalWORKS Housing Support Program at 833-391-0506 or hsp@rivco.org.
RENTAL ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
Attention Riverside County renters! Have you lost income due to COVID-19? You may be eligible for help from the United Lift Rental Assistance Program. This program is opening up on March 8 to distribute federal rental assistance funds from Riverside County to renters who meet certain income requirements and can show documentation that they’ve lost work due to COVID-19.
Here’s what’s new this year:
- The application portal for the United Lift Rental Assistance Program for Riverside County is open
- This program is open to residents who are renters that have lost income due to the coronavirus pandemic and fall under certain household income criteria
- The program will cover up to 12 months of unpaid back rent and up to three months of future rent
- Landlords can begin the application process on behalf of tenants, but tenants will have to be engaged to complete the application process
For more information about the eligibility guidelines as well as the application portal, please visit UnitedLift.org.
RIVERSIDE COUNTY INNOVATION MONTH
Innovation Month is brought to you by the County of Riverside Business & Community Services, the University of California, Riverside, the Riverside Community College District, many cities, educational institutions, private businesses, and related organizations to bring awareness to the many areas of innovation and entrepreneurship in the County.
An entire month is dedicated to innovation in Riverside County and will showcase many innovative and entrepreneurial activities and events. Great advances in technology, entrepreneurship and pivoting during the Covid-19 pandemic are happening throughout Riverside County. Please join us to highlight these successes and learn all that the County has to offer to support business growth!
To learn more and see a list of Innovation Month events, please visit https://www.rivcoinnovation.org/
RTA UPDATES
UPCOMING : MAY 2021 SERVICE CHANGES GUIDE
Following a month-long public hearing period, the RTA Board of Directors has authorized several route and schedule changes for 2021. The changes are in response to declining revenues and ridership caused by the pandemic. With these changes, RTA will continue to maintain as much service as possible while eliminating low-performing routes and trips.
Implementation of these changes will ensure that RTA is able to continue to provide essential services for the long run with the possibility of reinstating service as funding and ridership allow.
Click HERE for the upcoming route changes.
TRANSPORTATION UPDATES
Monday, April 5 through Thursday, April 9
• East and westbound SR-60 from 60/91/215 Interchange to Valley Way, lanes #2 and #3 and shoulder will be closed from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. daily. On and off ramps are subject to closure.
• East and westbound SR-60 from Country Village Road to Euclid Avenue, lanes #2, #3 and #4 will be closed with one lane open from 8:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. daily. On and off ramps are subject to closure.
ONGOING CLOSURES:
• Westbound SR-60 from Country Village Road to Wineville Road, lanes have been reduced from five lanes to three lanes to allow for accelerated pavement work.
• A traffic reconfiguration will be in place on SR-60 from Archibald Avenue to Euclid Avenue allowing work to take place behind k-rail. Lanes will be available in each direction on SR-60 during.
ABUSE AND PREVENTION UPDATES
 
DPSS AND PARTNERS COLLABORATE TO PREVENT CHILD ABUSE/NEGLECT AND BRING HELP TO VICTIMS
Riverside County has joined counties across the nation in recognizing April as National Child Abuse Prevention Month, emphasizing the vital role community partnerships play in preventing abuse and neglect before it starts.
“Child maltreatment can negatively impact the health and wellbeing of victims throughout their lives,” said Board of Supervisors Chair Karen Spiegel, District 2 Supervisor. She and the county supervisors thanked social workers and service providers for their dedication to children and families.
“We are a better community and a more compassionate society when we value and protect the wellbeing of our children,” Spiegel said. “Communities must make every effort to promote programs and activities that create strong and thriving children and families.”
More than 3 million cases of suspected abuse and neglect are reported annually nationwide Despite the statistics, advocates say abuse and neglect can be prevented. DPSS has forged partnerships with civic, nonprofit, and faith-based agencies to prevent abuse and end generational trauma and violence.
The partners bring resources to help at-risk families learn new solutions and they help victims find healing and new paths forward when abuse and neglect occur.
“Each child deserves to live in a healthy and supportive community that is committed to acting and safeguarding against emotional, physical and sexual abuse,” said Charity Douglas, assistant director of Children’s Services. “We are that community.”
Nationally, about three of every four cases reported are due to neglect. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports the annual cost of treating victims of abuse rivals other high-profile public health conditions such as stroke and diabetes.
Dr. Sophia Grant, medical director for the Riverside County Child Assessment and Sexual Assault and Forensic Examination teams at Riverside University Health System Medical Center, said every child deserves to be respected and to be believed.
Grant likened the interdisciplinary work of partners who prevent and respond to child abuse and neglect to that of a puzzle.
“Nobody is more important. Without one person, we are incomplete,” she said. “Together, we form a complete picture.”
April is National Child Abuse Prevention Month, recognized by the Riverside County Board of Supervisors on Tuesday (March 30). Key partners in the effort to raise awareness and prevent child abuse and neglect are pictured from left: Tammi Graham, executive director First 5 Riverside; Dr. Sophia Grant, chief of medical services for Riverside County Child Assessment Team at RUHS Medical Center; Charity Douglas, assistant director Children’s Services; Sayori Baldwin DPSS director and assistant county executive officer; Dariana Ortiz, program services administrator
Report suspected case of child abuse or neglect by calling the 24-hour Riverside County Child Abuse Hotline at 1-800-442-4918. Outside of Riverside County, please call the National ChildHelp Abuse Hotline at 1-800-422-4453.
SPRING IS HERE! TIME TO BRUSH-UP ON WATER SAFETY
This month, we welcome the official start to Spring! With the weather warming up, many of us may decide to spend time outdoors, cooling off by the pool or taking a day trip to the beach or one of our nearby lakes.
Spending time near the water can be a fun and relaxing way for all ages to pass time during our spring an summer months, provided proper precautions are taken. And it is never too early to begin talking to your children about water safety!
The reality is that it only takes a moment for a child, and even adults, to slip under the water silently and without much commotion. That is why it is important to remain vigilant and aware of how we can protect our loved ones and children from water related accidents.
If a child were to fall into the pool, or have their face submerged in any other body of water such as a bucket or bathtub, it is important to quickly evaluate the safest and most expedient way to get the child out of the water and onto their back on a flat surface.
Check for consciousness by tapping and shouting “are you okay?” to try and provoke a response. If someone is with you, have them call 9-1-1 while you stay with the child and check their breathing. Tilt the child’s head back and check for breath. If you cannot feel breathing or see the child’s chest rising, give two (2) Rescue Breaths, then check for a pulse. Begin Rescue Breathing or CPR immediately and continue until help arrives.
If you are alone when the accident occurs, evaluate if the child is breathing and, if necessary, begin Rescue Breathing or CPR immediately. After one minute, call 9-1-1 and then return to the child and continue CPR until help arrives.
For additional safety tips and information, and help educating even your youngest children about pool and water safety, visit the Riverside County Water Coalition’s website: https://www.rivcoips.org/Safety-Tips/Water-and-Pool-Safety
VETERAN SERVICES UPDATE
FREE TAX FILING FOR VETERANS
The Riverside County Department of Veterans’ Services would like to remind Veterans that the VA does not file or complete their Taxes. Everyone can receive free tax preparation assistance at a Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) location , if you meet any of the following criteria:
- You have an income of $56,000 or less
- You are 60 years old or older
- You have a disability
If your income is $69,000 or less, you can use most major tax preparation software to file your taxes for free through the IRS Free File Alliance .
There are several places in the I.E. that are helping with filing taxes for free. Please call them first before showing up as everything is subject to change.
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University Of Redlands 1200 E Colton Avenue, Duke Hall 2nd Floor; Redlands, CA 92373 Volunteer Prepared Taxes 12 MAR 2021 -12 APR 2021
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Community Action Partnership Mobile Site 2038 Iowa Avenue; Suite B-102, Riverside, CA 92507 951-955-4900 Volunteer Prepared Taxes 12 FEB 2021 - 30 DEC 2021
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Moreno Valley Library Mall 22500 Town Circle # 2078, Moreno Valley, CA 92553; 951-955-4900 Volunteer Prepared Taxes 16 FEB 2021 - 15 APR 2021
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Cesar Chavez Community Center 2060 University Avenue, Riverside, CA 92507; 951-955-4900 Volunteer Prepared Taxes 16 FEB 2021 - 15 APR 2021
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Riverside City College 4800 Magnolia Avenue, Business Education Building Room 108, Riverside, CA 92506 951-955-4900 Volunteer Prepared Taxes 19 FEB 2021 - 10 APR 2021
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Moreno Valley Public Library 25480 Alessandro Blvd, Moreno Valley, CA 92553 951-955-4900 Volunteer Prepared Taxes 13 FEB 2021 - 10 APR 2021
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Louis Robidoux Library 5840 Mission Blvd, Computer Lab, Jurupa Valley, CA 92509 951-955-4900 13 FEB 2021 - 10 APR 2021
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SAVE LIVES ACT ALLOWS VA TO SOON PROVIDE COVID-19 VACCINATIONS TO ALL VETERANS, THEIR SPOUSES AND CAREGIVERS
President Joe Biden signed the SAVE LIVES Act into law today, expanding VA's legal authority to provide COVID-19 vaccines to all Veterans, regardless of their VA health care enrollment status, as well as Veteran spouses, caregivers and some beneficiaries. For more information, please view the VA Office of Public and Intergovernmental Affairs press release.
FUNERAL EXPENSE RELIEF FROM FEMA
The COVID-19 pandemic has brought overwhelming grief to many families. At FEMA, our mission is to help people before, during and after disasters. We are dedicated to helping ease some of the financial stress and burden caused by the virus. Under the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 and the American Rescue Plan Act of 2021, FEMA will provide financial assistance for COVID-19-related funeral expenses incurred after January 20, 2020.
Who is Eligible?
To be eligible for funeral assistance, you must meet these conditions:
- The death must have occurred in the United States, including the U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia.
- The death certificate must indicate the death was attributed to COVID-19.
- The applicant must be a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien who incurred funeral expenses after January 20, 2020.
- There is no requirement for the deceased person to have been a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien.
For more information and to apply please visit FEMA here.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Calling all residents of Norco… registered for the FREE Drive-Thru Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 3. This event is fun for the whole family…Search for eggs, collect festive giveaways, and take a selfie with the Easter Bunny, all from the comfort and safety of your own vehicle! You may even win the Golden Egg! Registration Required: Each child must pre-register separately for this event by calling (951) 270-5632 by 5 p.m. on March 31, 2021. Please note, registration is participant-based, not vehicle-based. Each child must have their own individual registration confirmation in order to receive giveaways. Participants will not be able to register at the event. Registration is limited to Norco residents only, ages 1-12 years old.
Registration is still being accepted for the City of Norco's Co-Ed Tee Ball League! Register by April 8, 2021 at www.norco.ca.us/register. For ages 4-7 years old. The practice schedule is Tuesday, Wednesday OR Thursday from 4-5 p.m. and Opening day is scheduled for April 24, 2021, with a game schedule of Saturdays between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. Registration Fee: $90 Norco Residents/$95 Non-Residents
Please note, the registration fee includes team jersey, hat and award. Pictures are not included in the registration fee. Players must supply their own batting helmet and glove. During sports leagues, City facilities and staff will strictly adhere to CDC, State and County issued guidelines and sanitation compliance standards. Face coverings are required. The number of observers will be limited to ensure physical distancing can be maintained.
For more information, contact the City of Norco’s Parks, Recreation and Community Services Department at (951) 270-5632 or email sports@ci.norco.ca.us.
CITY OF EASTVALE – US PASSPORT DAY
Join us on Saturday, May 1, 2021 from 8:00 AM- 2:00 PM
We are excited to host U.S. Passport Day on Saturday, May 1, 2021 from 8 AM- 2 PM at Eastvale City Hall!
Passport Day is open to the public! We will be accepting appointments only, and spots are limited! You can make an appointment with us by emailing passports@eastvaleca.gov or by contacting our City Clerk’s Office at 951.703.4420
Please be sure to bring the following to your appointment:
- A completed, but unsigned application form. Forms are available at state.gov.
- Proof of identity such as a driver’s license
- Proof of U.S. citizenship such as a birth certificate (original copy)
- Appropriate forms of payment: personal check, money order, or cashiers check
For more information about our Passport Services, please visit our website at www.eastvaleca.gov
Eastvale City Hall is located at 12363 Limonite Ave., Suite 910. We hope to see you there!
The City of Jurupa Valley with partnership with Waste Management and Burrtec will be hosting a free bulky item disposal event on Saturday, April 3rd from 8:00am to 12:00pm. In an effort to protect members of the community, participants are required to come prepared to unload their own items, wear facial masks at all times, and maintain social distancing. Residents are encouraged to plan ahead and confirm with their respective waste hauler that the items they are bringing are indeed acceptable. Residents must also bring valid identification to prove that they are indeed residents of Jurupa Valley.
Waste Management Customer Drop-Off Location: Jurupa Valley High School 10551 Bellegrave Avenue Jurupa Valley, CA 91752
Burrtec Customer Drop-Off Location: Patriot High School 4355 Camino Real Jurupa Valley, CA 92509
Acceptable items usually include:
- Common household appliances and "white goods" like refrigerators, washers, dryers, stoves, ovens, microwaves, etc.
- Bulky furniture like couches, mattresses, leather chairs, etc.
- Rugs
- Patio furnishings like benches, lawn chairs, metal tables and chairs, BBQ items, etc.
- Electronic waste "e-waste" like computers, laptops, tables, cell phones, charges, cables, printers, scanners, copiers, etc.
- Bulky green waste like tree branches, bagged grass clippings, pulled weeds, etc.
Non-Acceptable items usually include:
- Paint - latex paint, old-based paint, primer, etc.
- Fluorescent light tubes
- Batteries
- Motor parts and oil, transmission fluid, brake fluid, anti-freeze, solvent, gas, etc.
- Pool chemicals
- Commercial and remodeling waste
- Weed killers, herbicides, rodent killer
- Fertilizer or pesticides
- Engines
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