|
| |
October 27, 2006 -10:15 a.m
The SOUTH COAST AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT has issued an AIR QUALITY FORECAST & SMOKE ADVISORY for today. According to the most recent advisory, due to wildfire activity in the Esperanza/San Gorgonio Pass area, localized areas of smoke may continue to occur. As a result, concentrations of fine particulates may reach the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups level or higher in Riverside County areas that are directly impacted by smoke.
Esperanza Fire Links
NBC
Coverage
Channel
3 News Coverage
Best
Syndication Coverage
CBS
Coverage
Desert
Sun Coverage
Scripts
News Coverage
Murrieta Air Quality Warnings
All schools in the Murrieta Valley Unified School District are continuing to implement their inclement weather schedules today and they are restricting outdoor activity.
The status of today's athletic games for both Murrieta Valley and Vista Murrieta High Schools has not yet been determined. We are continuing to monitor the air quality advisories for the valley throughout the day. For specific information about the status of school events and activities, please call school offices directly. Continuing updates on athletic events and the Air Quality Index will be posted on the district website under Breaking News.
October 26, 2006 - 11:08 a.m.
The SOUTH COAST AIR QUALITY MANAGEMENT DISTRICT has issued an AIR QUALITY FORECAST & SMOKE ADVISORY for today. According to the most recent advisory, due to wildfire activity in the Cabazon/San Gorgonio Pass area, localized areas of smoke may occur. As a result, concentrations of fine particulates may reach the Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups level or higher in Riverside County areas that are directly impacted by smoke.
Consequently, all schools in the Murrieta Valley Unified School District have been advised to implement their inclement weather schedules. We will continue to monitor the air quality advisories for the valley throughout the day.
October 26, 2006 - 2:00 p.m.
Please be advised that all after-school athletic practices and games at both Murrieta Valley and Vista Murrieta High Schools have been cancelled for today.
Since the air quality throughout Riverside County and the Murrieta Valley may continue to be impacted tomorrow as a result of wildfire activity in the Cabazon/San Gorgonio Pass area, Murrieta Valley Unified schools will continue to implement their inclement weather schedules tomorrow, restricting outdoor activity.
Continuing updates on the Air Quality Index will be posted.
Local News
World News
Murrieta
Shivela Middle School Threat
Please be advised that today at Shivela Middle School graffiti was
found in a restroom that contained the threat of a student bringing a
weapon to the Shivela campus. The Murrieta Police Department was
notified and they are investigating this incident. Additional Police
officers will be on campus tomorrow to ensure the safety of students and
staff. We take this threat very seriously, however there is no other
credible evidence that this is a legitimate threat. Nevertheless, every
measure is being taken to ensure the safety of Shivela students and
staff.
A $100 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest
and conviction of the person(s) responsible for this threat.
Please take this opportunity to remind your children that if they
know or hear of anyone who has committed a crime or who intends to
commit a crime, for their own safety and the safety of all students and
staff, they should report it to a District staff person, Murrieta Police
dispatch at 696-3615 or call the Anonymous We Tip Line.
WeTip Line: 1-800-78-CRIME ~or~ 1-800-782-7463
24 Hours a Day - 365 Days a Year
If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to contact the
school administrators.
A letter containing this information is being sent home with
all Shivela students today. Shivela parents will also be notified of
this threat via our automated calling system. This advisory
is also being posted on the district website.
The Holidays are Coming
People are shaking their heads in stores muttering to themselves
“not already” but it’s coming and nothing can stop it. The
holidays are right around the corner and to assure this will be a great
time to celebrate with family and friends, we want to make sure you
don’t miss out on any of the fun. Here are a few dates to get you and
the family in a festive mood.
November 25
Downtown Holiday Lights Parade & Tree Lighting Washington Avenue,
downtown 6:00 p.m.
December 12
Winter Wonderland California Oaks Sports Park 40600 California Oaks Road
There will be snow, crafts, entertainment, breakfast, and of course,
Santa 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
November 27 to December 13
Holiday Home Decorating Contest Applications are available on the City
of Murrieta Website and judging will be December 16
December 1 to December 20
To receive a letter from Santa, call (951) 461-6086 or see the City of
Murrieta Website. Murrieta addresses only, please.
December 1 to December 22
Bring an unwrapped toy, a gift card, or canned food item to the
Community Center for delivery to a local non-profit agency.
December 4 to December 15
See Santa as he visits various neighborhoods. The City of Murrieta
Website will provide dates, and schedules.
17 year old Hemet youth arrested for armed robbery
Murrieta Police Department Press Release
Date/Time Written: 10/19/200607:02
Type of Incident: 17 year old Hemet youth arrested for armed robbery
Date/Time of Incident: 10/18/200620:10
Location of Incident:Hancock Avenue & Murrieta Hot Springs Road
Reporting Officer: Sgt. Bob Landwehr
Reporting Officer Phone: (951) 461 6364
File Number: MR06 006782
Incident Summary
On Wednesday evening, Murrieta Police Officers were dispatched to a report of an armed robbery that had just occurred in the area of Hancock Avenue & Murrieta Hot Springs Road. The robbery victim told officers that he had pulled over to the side of the road because he was feeling sick. As he was sitting in his parked car he was approached by a man with a gun who demanded the victim's wallet. The victim fearing for his life gave the man his wallet. The robber fled and was seen getting into a 2-door black Cadillac. A witness saw the license plate of the Cadillac and provided the license plate number to investigating officers.
A Hemet Police Officer had coincidently stopped the Cadillac near State & Stetson and was searching the driver when he received the radio broadcast about the Murrieta robbery. The driver of the Cadillac was positively identified by the victim and the witness. An air soft hand-gun and over three ounces of marijuana were recovered from inside the Cadillac.
The 17 year old was booked at Southwest Juvenile Hall for robbery and possession of marijuana for sale.
ENTRIES SOUGHT FOR UNIQUE, NEW MURRIETA HOLIDAY LIGHTS PARADE
Entries are being sought for a unique parade featuring only foot-powered units and lots of lights that’s promising a festive welcome to the season of goodwill when it marches through the Historic Downtown Murrieta business district November 25.
Local groups and businesses are eligible to enter and may obtain parade packets by calling
951-698-7766 or emailing avollbrecht@murrieta.org.
A special float building workshop is scheduled for 9 a.m. October 7 at the Murrieta Senior Center located at the corner of Juniper Street and Adams Avenue downtown. There is no charge, but RSVPs are requested. There will be a demonstration of how the carts should be put together, and a professional parade producer is to be on hand to offer float design tips and advice on materials.
What makes the Holiday Lights parade unique is that floats will be small – built atop four-foot by six-foot carts – and that all entries must be propelled by feet, those of humans or animals and must be lighted.
It’s called a push cart parade, and entrants building floats will also have people pulling or pushing them. Marching units of varying types are expected as well. And there will be big helium-filled balloons and costumed characters making their way down the parade route, too. There’s little involved in building these miniature floats. If entrants need it, downtown association volunteers will help them build their carts, which can be used year after year.
The Thanksgiving weekend parade and other activities that will be part of the evening are to begin at 6:00 p.m. along Washington Avenue between Kalmia and Ivy Streets. A “lighting of the avenue,” when thousands of lights adorning trees in the
streetscape and on a giant holiday tree, will be part of the evening along with other events being planned by the downtown association.
Participation by community groups and businesses is encouraged, and those wanting to be in the event need to file final applications no later than November 1. Pre-applications are requested, however, to hold space for participants and to get an early indication of intent.
Volunteers also are sought to help with parade management, especially the night of the event.
For guidelines, entry forms and other parade information, go to the city’s website at
www.murrieta.org and click on Historic Downtown. For more details or to volunteer, call the city’s parade coordinator
Al Vollbrecht at (951) 698-7766 or email him at avollbrecht@murrieta.org.
On November 7, Vote in the Murrieta General Municipal Election
Don't miss your opportunity to voice your opinion in the next election!
Murrieta will be electing three Council members to the City Council for a four year
term. Voters must register to vote prior to October 23. You need to register if you have moved, changed your name, recently turned 18 or have never registered. Voters may request absentee ballots from October 9 to 31.
Polls are open on Election Day, November 7, from 7:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. To find out your polling place location, check your sample ballot or go the
city's Website as Election Day nears. Candidates running for office are listed on the city clerk's page. Candidate statements will be available shortly.
To obtain election results, attend Election Night Central in the council chambers on November 7th beginning at 8:00 p.m. or check the
city's website. Information on county races is available at the Riverside County Registrar of Voters
Web page and for details about state initiatives and races, see the Secretary of State Website.
Enjoy the Historic Harvest Festival
On Sunday October 1st our Murrieta Historic Downtown will be holding
it’s first Historic Harvest Festival on Washington between Ivy &
Kalmia from 10 am to 5 pm. This family oriented event will is for all
ages. The City of Murrieta is looking for volunteers for the event. If
you would like to have fun and be a part of this event please contact:
Ashley Jones (951) 461-6007 or email ajones@murrieta.org. Hope we will
see you there.
Murrieta Police Department Press Releases
Date/Time Written:9/26/2006 00:19
Type of Incident:WANTED SUBJECT APPREHENDED
Date/Time of Incident:9/25/2006 13:58
Location of Incident: 39649 Bordeaux, Murrieta
Reporting Officer: Sgt. J. Hoxmeier
Reporting Officer Phone: (951) 461- 6355
File Number: MR06-006232
WANTED SUBJECT APPREHENDED
On 09/25/06 at approximately 13:58 PM, a parolee at large who was considered armed and dangerous was identified by police officers in the area of 39649 Bordeaux Place, Murrieta, CA. The subject fled from officers in a black Ford F150 pick- up truck.
The parolee was identified as Weston Johnson. Officers pursued the felon. Johnson drove erratically at high rates of speed on Interstate I215. He exited the Interstate and drove to the area of Simpson Road and Menifee Road in Sun City where the pursuit terminated. The vehicle Weston Johnson was driving got a flat tire. As a result, he was unable to continue and gave up without further incident. No one was injured as a result of the pursuit.
Johnson was booked at the Southwest Detention Center.
Date/Time Written: 9/26/2006 18:34
Type of Incident: Marijuana, Hashish and Psilocybin Sales Arrests
Date/Time of Incident: 9/26/2006 13:00
Location of Incident: 39600 Block of Columbia Union Dr.
Reporting Officer: Sgt. Dennis Vrooman
Reporting Officer Phone: 951-461-6366
File Number: MR06-006245
Marijuana, Hashish and Psilocybin Sales Arrests
On 6-26-2006 at 1300 hours, Murrieta Special Enforcement Team detectives went to a condominium unit in the 39600 Block of Columbia Union Dr for a criminal investigation and conducted a parole and probation search at the location. While at the front door, the detectives smelled a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the interior of the condo. Five residents were detained and later arrested for possession of marijuana, hashish and psilocybin mushrooms for sale. During the search, detectives located over 31 pounds of marijuana valued at approximately $25,000.00; a pound of psilocybin mushrooms valued over $1,000.00 and a half pound of hashish (concentrated cannabis) valued at approximately $5,000.00. Also found at the home was several thousand dollars in cash believed to be the proceeds of the drug sales and is subject to asset forfeiture. All five suspects were arrested for drug sales and/or probation or parole violations.
Date/Time Written: 9/25/2006 18:38
Type of Incident: Construction Site Fatality
Date/Time of Incident: 9/25/2006 10:33
Location of Incident: Northwest corner Menifee Road & Keller Road
Reporting Officer: Sgt. Bob Landwehr
Reporting Officer Phone: (951) 461 6364
File Number:MR06 006226
Construction Site Fatality
On 9/25/06 at about 10:33 a.m., Murrieta Police and Fire responded to a construction site accident involving an overturned water truck at the northwest corner of Menifee and Keller Roads. Emergency personnel arrived on scene and found that the passenger of the water truck had died from partially being ejected as the water truck rolled down a dirt embankment. The driver of the water truck suffered minor injuries. California OSHA responded to investigate the job site accident. Name of the deceased is pending the notification of next of kin.
Date/Time Written: 9/25/2006 17:34
Type of Incident: Auto Theft Arrests
Date/Time of Incident: 9/25/2006 06:40
Location of Incident: 41100 block of Mountain Pride Drive
Reporting Officer: Sgt. Bob Landwehr
Reporting Officer Phone: (951) 461-6364
File Number: MR06-006219
Auto Theft Arrests
On 9/25/06 at about 04:56 a.m., Murrieta Police Officer Steve Whiddon tracked a Lo-Jack activation belonging to a stolen 2001 Lexus. The Lexus was stolen the day before from the Temecula Mall and was found in the driveway of a residence in the 41100 block of Mountain Pride Drive. Officers surveiled the residence and at about 06:40 a.m. two men exited the residence and went to the Lexus. One man entered the Lexus and the second man walked away towards a nearby parked vehicle on Red Clover. That man was taken into custody and is tentatively identified as Eric Aguilar. As Aguilar was being taken into custody, the man in the stolen Lexus fled on foot towards Mountain Pride Park. He was later found inside the house. He is tentatively identified as Mike Hunt.
Officers found stolen items from the Lexus inside the Mountain Pride Drive home. Both men were booked at Southwest Detention Center.
American Red Cross is Looking for Volunteers
The Riverside County chapter of the American Red Cross is looking for
your help. Please contact Sandy Lowrey at 951-676-3711.
City of Murrieta 4th Annual Veteran's Day Parade
Murrieta will once again honor our veterans from all five branches of the service at the 4th Annual Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, November 11, 2006. At last year"s event, more than 5,000 spectators watched 60 entries including floats, bands, color guards, equestrian units, and military vehicles march in the parade. Patriotic songs were played as veterans, reservist, and active duty military rode in cars and jeeps listening to the hurrahs of the crowd.
The parade will begin at 10:00 a.m. at the corner of Kalmia Streetand Washington Avenueand will continue down Washington Avenueto Ivy Street. This year’s festivities will kick off with a vintage plane fly over by the War Birds West Air Museum from La Mesa followed by Charles Anderson, this year’s Grand Marshal.
Anderson served as a Corporal in World War Two as a Marine radioman caring a huge Motorola radio set consisting of two pieces, each piece larger than a desktop computer CPU, on his 139-pound frame during grueling combat operations. He participated in amphibious assaults at New Guinea, New Britain,
Peleliu, and
Okinawa. Given the inherent risks of his duties, radiomen were not known to have a particularly long life expectancy, it is remarkable that he not only survived, but prevailed as a key member of the Regiment. Anderson will be joined by other deserving heroes who have served in all of the U.S. wars since World War Two and have represented our country in squirmishes such as the U.S. Show of Force in Lebanon and the Cuban Missile Crisis.
Participants are encouraged to sign up quickly by contacting the Murrieta Community Services’ Recreation Coordinator at 304-7275 ext. 6110.
For more information contact:
Annette Jennings, Recreation Coordinator
City of Murrieta
951-461-6110
Community Can Provide Suggestions for New Library Books
The librarians at the Murrieta Public Library are interested in the community's suggestions for new books, DVDs, and music titles along with subject ideas for the new library"s materials collection.
The grand opening of the Murrieta Public Library is still on schedule for early March 2007 and one of the many important details to be accomplished is purchasing an opening day collection that meets the information, recreation, educational, and cultural needs of the Murrieta community.
In ordering the new materials for the collection, the librarians are bound to existing parameters that are included within the library’s mission statement and the Murrieta Public Library Plan of Service, which was one of the many required documents submitted to the California State Library Office of Library Construction to win the $6.4 million Library Bond Act 2000 grant.
When purchasing the many titles in a variety of formats and languages for the public library, the materials must meet the needs of the community as well as, taking in to account the demographics (age, income, ethnicity, and education) and resident’s favorites.
The Murrieta Public Library is lucky to have three professional librarians with master’s degrees. According to the Director of Library Services Loretta McKinney, each of the library’s selections is purchased after much research by the librarians.
"We review the item to assure it is credible, current and that the content meets the informational needs of the community along with the durability and cost of each item,” says McKinney. The staff also uses professional journals that provide positive reviews and credible best seller lists when selecting materials.
“We are very interested in hearing from all of Murrieta’s residents. We want to provide them an opportunity to tell us what titles they want to see in the library’s collection,” states McKinney. When a request is received, staff compares the suggestion to the library’s objectives and mandates. The process is the same formula used by public librarians throughout California and the nation.
The library will open with 70,500 materials, of which 40,000 will be new items, upon opening in early 2007. In addition to a variety of formats, such as audio books, audio CDs and non-fiction and entertainment DVDs, there will be books in other languages, and additional newspaper and magazine titles not found in the existing library.
The new library will have room for 100,000 items, which will allow the community to continually request additional materials. According to McKinney, “There will truly be something for everyone at the new Murrieta Public Library.”
The Murrieta Public Library Patron Suggestion Form can be found at the library’s front desk or via the “At Your Service” link on the City of Murrieta’s Webpage at www.murrieta.org or for more information, call 304-BOOK.
For more information contact:
Loretta McKinney, Director of Library Services
City of Murrieta
951-461-6130
Be a Part of the Downtown Holiday Lights Parade!
Calling all service clubs, school groups, non-profit organizations & businesses
We want you take part in the upcoming Holiday Lights Parade to be held in the Historic Downtown on November 25 by building a "push-cart” float. It's a non-motorized float that is either pushed or pulled by hand. These carts are easy and inexpensive to make and the base can be used year after year.
There will be a special float building workshop at 9 a.m. on October 7 at the Murrieta Senior Center on Town Square. There you will see a demonstration of how the carts are put together, and a parade specialist is to be on hand to offer float design tips and advice on materials. Please RSVP to the address below.
For more information, contact Al Vollbrecht at (951) 698-7766 or email him at
avollbrecht@murrieta.org.
Murrieta Summer / Fall Adult Softball League Needs Umpires
September 20, 2006
For more information contact:
Lexi Moorer, Recreation Leader
City of Murrieta
951-304-7275 ext. 6605
Murrieta Summer / Fall Adult Softball League Needs Umpires
Certified Adult Softball Officials and are needed for the City of Murrieta's Adult softball League. Officials are needed for Sunday afternoons and Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday nights. For more information, please call Lexi Moorer
951-304-7275 ext 6605 or email at lmoorer@murrieta.org.
Win a $1,000 in the Historic Treasure Hunt Dash for Cash
You can win $1,000 by participating in the Historic Treasure Hunt Dash for Cash.
A gift certificate for $1000 dollars in cash from the Historic Downtown Murrieta Association has been hidden in Historic Downtown Murrieta.
Just fill in the clue to be released on September 24 then go to Murrieta Tire & Service located at 41991 Ivy Street during normal business hours for your next clue. You will need to fill in each clue correctly before you can get a new clue. There are a total of 12 game pieces to complete and once you have completed them all, you can re-arrange the letters to find a certificate for $1,000 cash. You will need to keep all of your work to find the certificate.
How you find the answers is up to you. Look up the answers on the Web, call a friend, go to the Murrieta Public Library, or you may need to take a look around our beautifully renovated Historic Downtown.
The Historic Treasure Hunt Dash for Cash is sponsored by:
Edward Jones Investments, Farmers Insurance Group, Joannie's Cantina, The Mill Restaurant, Murrieta Floor Covering, Murrieta Tire & Service, Murrieta Valley Funeral Home, Patio Plus/Villa Mesa Development, Rancho Physical Therapy, The Shootist, Tanya Gray Salon, Jack vanHaaster -CPA, Windshield Crack Repair.
The first clue is: To come on Sunday, September 24 in the Press Enterprise and Californian Newspapers along with the City of Murrieta Website.
Employees and their immediate families (spouses, parents, siblings, children and each of their respective spouses) of the City of Murrieta and the Historic Downtown Murrieta Association are not eligible to enter or win. This game is governed by U.S. law and is subject to all federal, state and local laws. Void where prohibited by law. The certificate for the Historic Treasure Hunt Dash for Cash will be redeemable beginning October 1 at Historic Harvest Festival.
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN A PRIZE
A PURCHASE DOES NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING
Murrieta Police Department Press Releases
Auto Theft Arrest
Date/Time Written: 9/17/2006 02:50
Type of Incident: Auto theft arrest
Date/Time of Incident: 9/16/2006 15:12
Location of Incident: Hunter Road and Winchester Road
Reporting Officer: Sgt. J. Flavin
Reporting Officer Phone: 951-461-6328
File Number: MR06-006027
Incident Summary
On 09/16/06 at 1512 hours, Officer's Gruwell and Moll were assigned to the Murrieta Police off-road enforcement detail. The officer's were patrolling the are of Hunter Road and Winchester Road. Several subjects were observed riding off-road motorcycles in violation of the Murrieta municipal code. The subjects were contacted regarding the violation.
During the contact it was discovered one of the subjects was riding a motorcycle with an obliterated vehicle identification number. A secondary number was checked and revealed the motorcycle had been reported stolen in Temecula in March of 2006. The subject riding the motorcycle, Richard Beltran 19 years old, was placed under arrest for auto theft and possession of stolen property. A search of Beltran's vehicle resulted in the discovery of 24 grams of Marijuana and an illegal gravity knife.
Beltran was placed under arrest and later booked into the Southwest Detention Center for the above violations.
Arrest for Marijuana possession and cultivation
Date/Time Written: 9/16/2006 03:14
Type of Incident: Arrest for Marijuana possession and cultivation
Date/Time of Incident: 9/15/2006 14:25
Location of Incident: 28000 block of Sommerville Road
Reporting Officer: Sgt. J. Flavin
Reporting Officer Phone: 461-6328
File Number: MR06-005998
Incident Summary
On 09/15/2006 at 1425 hours, Officer Quick conducted a traffic stop in the 39000 block of Los Alamos Rd. for a traffic violation. Officer Quick determined the driver (Ernest Cruz Acosta 20 years old) was on active probation and had an outstanding felony warrant issued for his arrest. The driver was placed under arrest for the felony warrant. A search of the vehicle incident to the arrest resulted in the discovery of approximately 110 grams of Marijuana.
Officer Quick responded to the residence of Ernest Cruz Acosta to conduct a probation search. The probation search resulted in the discovery of approximately 220 Marijuana plants and equipment used to cultivate the plants. An additional 90 grams of Marijuana and a small amount of Cocaine was also found at the residence. The father of Ernest Cruz Acosta, (Ernest Acosta 49 years old) was also at the residence. The Murrieta Police Special Enforcement Team responded to the location to assist in the seizure of the plants.
Both Ernest Cruz Acosta and Ernest Acosta were arrested for possession of Marijuana for sale and cultivation of Marijuana. Ernest Cruz Acosta was also charged with transportation of a controlled substance, probation violation and the felony warrant. Both suspects were booked into the Southwest Detention Center.
DUI / Drivers License Checkpoint
Date/Time Written: 9/16/2006 16:35
Type of Incident: DUI / Drivers License Checkpoint
Date/Time of Incident: 9/15/200618:00
Location of Incident: Margarita Road, Murrieta
Reporting Officer: Sergeant Sean Hadden
Reporting Officer Phone: 951-461-6365
Incident Summary
On Friday September 16, 2006 the Murrieta Police Department conducted a combination sobriety/drivers license checkpoint in the City of Murrieta. The checkpoint was set up to screen traffic on n/b Margarita Road just north of Torrey Pines.
The checkpoint was funded by a traffic safety grant the City of Murrieta was awarded by the State of California, Business, Transportation and Housing Agency, Office of Traffic Safety
(O.T.S.).
The checkpoint began operations at 7:30 p.m. and ended at 1:00 a.m. A total of 1,313 vehicles drove through the checkpoint, and 706 of these vehicles were screened. Twenty-three (23) of the drivers screened were pulled into a secondary area. One driver was arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs and 12 drivers were cited and had their vehicles impounded for 30-days when they were found to have suspended driver’s licenses or had no driver’s licenses. In addition to the arrest and citations issued at the checkpoint, two other drivers were arrested for driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs near the checkpoint.
Harvest Festival Set for Downtown Murrieta
The Historic Downtown Murrieta Association (HDMA) invites makers and sellers of arts and crafts to take part in the inaugural Historic Harvest Festival on Sunday, October 1, 2006 from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The event will take place in Historic Downtown Murrieta on Washington Avenue between "A” and Ivy streets. Each arts and craft exhibitor can pay $50 to reserve a 10-foot-by 10-foot space.
Exhibitors are asked to fill out an application to reserve a spot before September 15. The day has something for the entire family including musical entertainment, food, games, a pumpkin patch, petting zoo, pony rides, historic treasure hunt and a beer garden. The Historic Downtown Murrieta Association is a non-profit group that is trying to make people more aware of fun things to do in this quaint shopping and restaurant district.
Since the association formed a year ago, it has hosted or co-hosted several events, including a holiday celebration in December, the Tour de Murrieta bike race in March and a three-day block party in April. For vendor applications or more information about the Harvest Festival call Ashley Jones at (951) 461-6007 or Debi Feeney at (951) 600-7968.
Knott's Scary Farm Halloween Haunt
Murrieta, Ca. –Join the city of Murrieta for a terrifying night of ghosts, ghouls, spectacular mazes, and sinister shows at Knott"s Scary Farm’s 34th Annual Halloween Haunt. Attractions this year include over twenty mazes, such as Bigfoot’s Revenge and Camp
Gonnagetcha. The haunt will also feature its classic show "The Hanging.”
The event will take place on Friday, October 20, 2006. A charter bus will pick up participants at 5:00 p.m. from the Community Center (41810 Juniper Street). Pizza and drinks will be provided. Cost for residents is $55 and a non-resident must pay $60. All ages are welcome. Participants under the age of thirteen must be accompanied by a paid adult. Seating is limited. Please register by October 18, 2006 at the Community Center, Cal Oaks Sports Park, or online at www.murrieta.org.
For further information, please contact the City of Murrieta Community Services Department at (951) 304-PARK (7275).
Murrieta, Singled out as a Technology Trendsetter
September 13, 2006
The City of Murrieta has been singled out as a technology trendsetter at an annual conference of government leaders and managers held in San Antonio, Texas. On Tuesday, September 12, Teri Ferro, deputy city manager, spoke at the International City/County Management Association
(ICMA) annual conference about how Murrieta is a frontrunner in using technology to streamline and expedite municipal services.
"For Murrieta to be recognized out of all the cities in the country is quite an honor,” said Ferro. “At city hall, we have made it a point to adopt technology so we can provide services more efficiently and in a cost-effective manner.”
In particular, Murrieta was recognized for embracing new technologies that let it better manage the software that controls and organizes the permitting fees it receives from contractors and developers. The city worked with
GovPartner, a leading provider of e-Government software and services, to customize computer programs that that track permits, finances and work-orders.
The software has allowed Murrieta to keep up with the high-paced construction activity that has sparked population growth from 44,282 in 2000 to more than 93,000 today. The new software can handle more than 500 fees in more than 100 different fee groups within various city departments. City staff creates fee tables and are alerted of any deposit account that falls below 25 percent of the original funds, allowing managers to request more funds to continue reviewing and processing projects.
Murrieta is also using technology to help it dispose of surplus municipal property, and implementing a unique citywide paperless invoice approval system that dramatically cuts down document handling and storage, reduces costly errors, trims staff time while speeding up the payment process. ICMA was founded in 1914 as the City Managers' Association, a professional organization for appointed city managers and administrators. Today ICMA represents 8,000 local government executives and urban experts worldwide.
Work Begins at Los Alamos and I-215
Work has begun to widen Los Alamos Road Bridge over Interstate 215 and improve on-ramps and off-ramps at the interchange.The $12 million, 16-month project will improve cross-town traffic flow by tripling the number of lanes on the bridge and enhancing freeway access. But the interchange will also get some new landscaping, thanks to the efforts of Representative Mary Bono who earmarked $1.6 million to replant and re-landscape Los Alamos Road and the interchange after completion.
The funds were part of the $286 billion the Safe, Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Act signed into law by President Bush in August. As a result of Representative Bono's help, Murrieta also received $1.6 million that will be used to upgrade and realign the California Oaks interchange on the I-15. This summer Murrieta City Council awarded an $11.2 million contract to Yeager Skanska of Riverside to widen the bridge from the current two lanes to six lanes.
During the project, the city and its construction manager have taken steps to minimize traffic disruptions and delays. The two existing lanes on Los Alamos Road will be maintained throughout the 16 months of construction. There will be a few overnight single lane closures and one full overnight closure on Los Alamos Road and each of the four interchange ramps will be closed for a two-week period. But motorists will be given plenty of warning via changeable message signs on the freeway and surface streets, and outreach efforts through the local media and business groups.
The Los Alamos/I-215 interchange is the first of five freeway bridge projects valued at an estimated $84 million that are planned in Murrieta to enhance traffic flow.
Work to upgrade the Clinton Keith Road/I-215 interchange is expected to begin in July 2007 and construction of a bridge over the 215 at Linnel Lane north of Clinton Keith is scheduled to start later this year and be completed by the fall 2007. Work on the 15 freeway to widen the interchange at California Oaks Road and the overpass at Los Alamos is scheduled to start in early 2008.
Los Alamos/Interstate 215 improvements
The Los Alamos/Interstate 215 improvements are set to begin the week of
Sept. 11.
When completed, the new, seismically upgraded bridge will accommodate three lanes in each direction and two left turn lanes for freeway access going southbound and northbound. The freeway on and off-ramps will be widened and ramp metering will be installed for both the north and south bound on-ramps.
To accommodate the widen, construction crews will begin removing existing pine trees along Los Alamos, north of Interstate 215. They will eventually be replaced through a $1.6 million, federally-funded landscape project that will occur at the end of construction. The funds were obtained for the area by Congresswoman Mary Bono through the SAFETEA-LU program.
The three existing lanes on Los Alamos Road will be maintained throughout construction although there will be a few single lane closures overnight and one full overnight closure. Each of the four ramps will be closed for a two-week period to complete construction, which will take approximately 16 months to complete.
The City of Murrieta will be holding a community meeting on September 12, 6:00 p.m. at Rail Ranch Elementary in the Multi-purpose room to provide more information to residents and businesses within the area.
Friends of Murrieta Library Get Innovative
NEWS RELEASE Aug. 31, 2006
Businesses in Murrieta are pitching in a big way to ensure that the new Murrieta Public Library is a community success story.
Applebee's, Honeycutt Farms, Farmer Boys and The Colony Country Club have stepped up to help the Friends of Murrieta Library use creative and innovative ways to raise money that will be used for new books, programs and equipment when the library opens in February.
"The new library will be six times the size of our current one," said Roberta Fokken with the Friends of Murrieta Library. "There are a lot of things we are going to need that just aren't in the city's
budget."
On the first Thursday of each month and on October 3, 4 and 6, Applebee's at
24872 Madison Avenue will donate 15 percent of the checks from diners who say they are eating there to support the library fundraiser. In August, Applebee's raised $146 for the library. In addition, Honeycutt Farms, in the shopping center at Murrieta Hot Springs and Alta Murrieta Roads, is donating 10 percent of their sales on October 7 to the Murrieta Public Library.
Farmer Boys on Kalmia Road near Kohl's department store in Murrieta has placed a jar by the cash register for donations to the library. They will match each dollar that is donated. And The Colony Country Club is donating $5 for each tee time purchased between October 6-8.
"This is a win-win situation for all involved," explained Loretta McKinney, director of library services for Murrieta. "The merchants receive additional business, the community has an opportunity to participate in fund-raising efforts for the new library while patronizing their favorite establishments and the library receives much-needed funds for programs and materials that serve the information needs of all the community."
The new, 25,000-square-foot Murrieta Public Library will join the Murrieta Police Department and Senior Center in a 34-acre civic center just east of Historic Downtown Murrieta. Since April a web cam has chronicled progress of construction on the new library. Real-time images will allow anyone who visits the city's Website at www.murrieta.org to see firsthand how far the new library has come.
For more information contact:
Loretta McKinney, City of Murrieta
951-461-6130
Residential Burglary Arrest
Murrieta Police Department Press Release
Date/Time Written: 8/25/2006 20:23
Type of Incident: Residential Burglary Arrest
Date/Time of Incident: 8/25/2006 02:25
Location of Incident: 28000 Block of Ware St., Murrieta, CA
Reporting Officer: Sgt. Sandra O'Donnell
Reporting Officer Phone: 951-461-6369
File Number: MR06-005481
Incident Summary
On Friday, 08-25-06 at 0225 hours, Murrieta Police Officers were
dispatched to a residence located on the 28000 block of Ware St. in the
City of Murrieta; reference a residential burglary that just occurred.
The residents were inside their home sleeping at the time of the
burglary. A resident was awakened by a noise he heard inside the house
and when he checked on the noise, he discovered several items missing.
The items stolen included a 40” plasma television, a purse, wallet,
cell phone and other miscellaneous items. The suspects were no longer in
the house. Entry into the house appeared to be through an unlocked door.
While checking the area, Officer’s Henry and Therien discovered
evidence that led them to the arrest of two Murrieta residents that live
in the same neighborhood. The stolen items were recovered and returned
to the owners.
A 14 year old male juvenile and his 21 year old brother were arrested.
The juvenile was booked at South West Juvenile Hall for 459 PC-Burglary,
496 PC-Possession of Stolen Property, and 182 (a)(1) PC-Conspiracy to
Commit a Crime.
Adult Arrested: Gabriel Hernandez, 21 years old, of Murrieta, CA.
Gabriel was booked at the South West Detention Center for 459
PC-Burglary, 496 PC-Possession of Stolen Property, and 182 (a) (1)
PC-Conspiracy to Commit a Crime.
News Release 8/22/2006
Murrieta Public Library Asks Parents to Return Toys
Murrieta Public Library is asking parents of children who received
bendable toys as part of a Summer Reading Program to return the toys to
the library to comply with a voluntary recall initiated by a library
supplier.
Murrieta was one of dozen of libraries from the Inland area and hundreds
nationwide that purchased the dog and cat bendable toys from Highsmith,
a library supplier.
The company initiated the recall after excessive levels of lead were
discovered in the toys. Lead, which is banned by federal law, may be
toxic if ingested by young children.
The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission has requested that about
340,000 toys be recalled and discarded. No incidents or injuries have
been reported.
The recalled toy is made of bendable plastic and is in the shape of a
brown dog with black ears, paws and feet, a Dalmatian dog with pink
paws, a white dog with orange spots, a brown dog with pink paws, a white
cat with orange stripes, a brown cat with pink paws, a black cat with
pink ears and a white cat with brown spots. The toys are about 3.75
inches tall. The toy's packaging is labeled as item 39/1461-K and
39/1461-KM.
For more information on this recall, go to: http://www.cpsc.gov/cpscpub/prerel/prhtml06/06236.html
HDMA Selects Officers
Kirk Dye, owner of The Mill restaurant, was elected the first
president of the Historic Downtown Murrieta Association, a non-profit
group that is making people more aware of the area's quaint shopping and
restaurants using special events, promotions, and marketing.
"The Historic Downtown Murrieta Association (HDMA) is a group of
businesses that represent the 'real' downtown in Murrieta," said
Dye. "We plan to work in concert with the city and the chamber of
commerce to create a viable organization that has a voice in the
community."
The one-year-old association, which has about three-dozen members,
recently elected a board of directors. In addition to Dye, they include
Greg Smith from Rancho Physical Therapy, vice president; Pamela Herbert
from Sidelines Sport Bar, secretary; Jack van Haaster from Jack van
Haaster CPA, treasurer; Annie Borel from Joannie's Cantina and Patrick
Stambersky from the Cutting Edge, member at large.
Since the association formed a year ago, it has hosted and co-hosted
several events, including a holiday celebration in December, the Tour de
Murrieta bike race in March and the three-day Block Party in April.
The downtown group is making plans for a Harvest Festival this fall and
a Christmas parade to kick off a community-wide holiday celebration. The
city and the downtown association envisage a kid-friendly parade on
November 25 that would include foot-powered floats, marching bands and
Jolly Old Saint Nick.
For more information call Annie Borel at (951) 704-8955, Kirk Dye at
(951) 719-6190, or go to: www.murrieta.org/ecdev/downtown.
Council Approves Paving for Meadowlark Lane
The Murrieta City Council has approved plans to grade and pave
portions of Meadowlark Lane and Somers Road to help minimize traffic
congestion at Clinton Keith Road and nearby Antelope Road. The improved
streets will also serve as a detour route for motorist when work begins
on the Linnel Lane overcrossing at Interstate 215.
The $664,800 project, which is expected to be completed by early 2007,
ultimately will relieve congestion at Clinton Keith Road and Antelope
Road around Vista Murrieta High School during peak traffic hours.Interim
grading and paving of Meadowlark Lane and Somers Road would be done in
lieu of improvements originally planned for Cape Aire Way.
City engineers determined that the Meadowlark/Somers route would provide
the best detour and traffic flow once construction begins on the Linnel
Lane overcrossing.
New Recreation Classes
Looking for something different to do this fall? The City of Murrieta is
offering a wide variety of new classes for all ages. They range from
music and dance, to sports and education. Younger children can enjoy our
new Munchkin Music class or Hawaiian Dance Lessons.
Piano lessons are being offered to both children and adults. The cost
for eight weeks of instruction is $90. Keyboards are provided. Violin
and drum classes will be taught at the Murrieta Senior Center on
Wednesday nights.
Students must bring their own drum sticks or violin to the class.
Additional new classes include West Coast Swing, Math Masters, Youth
Champion Soccer, Playground Sports, Hoops Basketball Clinic, Youth Golf
Clinic, Unreal Science Classes, Computer Kids, and CPR/First Aid.
For additional information on classes offered by the Community Services
Department, please call 304-PARK (7275) or visit www.murrieta.org
Murrieta Honors Volunteers
Murrieta recently honored the hundreds of residents who give their
time to make the city a better place to live and work.
More than 130 volunteers, who do everything from helping out at the
Senior Center and Library to serving on municipal commissions, were
recognized at a dinner held at the Community Center.
"This was just our way of saying thanks to all of residents and who
volunteer untold hours to improve the quality of our community,"
said Kay Vinson, City Clerk.
Also honored were those stepping down from a variety of commissions.
They include Jeanne Nelson and Joleen Vert from the Library Advisory
Commission, Michael O'Donnell from the Community Steering Committee,
Donna Lent from the Historical Preservation Advisory Commission and
Stephen Flynn from the Public Safety & Traffic Commission.
Additionally, another 129 volunteers were recognized from the Youth
Advisory group, Police Department, Fire Department, Library, and
Community Services Department, which includes the Senior Center.
Outgoing commissioners received tile plaques and all volunteers received
"Murrieta Stars" in recognition of their devotion to making
Murrieta a better place to live.
Senior Events
Seniors Can Ballroom Dance to Sam DeFazio's Music
Bring your dancing shoes and come join the fun! Sam DeFazio's Goodtime
Band will be at the Community Center on Friday, September 1, 2006. Time
is from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. Cost is $5.00 at the door. Light refreshments
served. For more information call (951) 304-7275
Murrieta's Senior Center Celebrates First Birthday
Celebrate Murrieta's Senior Center's first birthday on Tuesday,
September 5, from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. There will be lunch, door prizes,
music, decorations, party favors and of course, cake. Sign up in
advance, space is limited. For more information call
(951) 304-7275
Cal Oaks, Hancock Resurfaced
Most of the resurfacing work on California Oaks Road and Hancock
Avenue will be completed this week prior to the start of school.
California Oaks Road between Clinton Keith Road and Interstate 15 along
with Hancock Avenue between California Oaks Road and Los Alamos Road
were improved with an asphalt overlay. Both of these roads were built in
the late 1980s prior to incorporation and have not been improved since
then. "It was time," said Mike Brooks, Murrieta Public Works
maintenance manager. "Roads don't last forever."
City roads receive a fresh coast of slurry every seven years and the top
1 to 2 inches of a road - asphalt overlay -- is replaced every 15 to 20
years. Once the overlay is completed, it's like driving on a new road.
Finishing touches, such as the second coat of paint, raised pavement
markers and final cleanup are scheduled to be done on Cal Oaks and
Hancock by the week of Aug. 14."The striping will be done in the
very early morning hours," said Brooks. "We appreciate
everyone's patience and have scheduled the remaining work during
non-peak traffic hours to minimize the inconvenience."
For more information contact:
Mike Brooks, Public Works maintenance manager
951-304-9273
Blood Bank at Murrieta Senior Center
The San Diego Blood Bank bloodmobile will accept blood donations at
the Murrieta Senior Center, 41717 Juniper Street, Murrieta, Monday, Aug.
14, from 1:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. The blood drive will be held in the
multi-purpose room. All donors will receive FREE Clubhouse Admission to
the Del Mar Races (includes admission to Four O'clock Friday Concerts
& Saturday Infield Concerts) and a Farmer Boys hamburger gift
certificate.
Donors also will receive a medical history review and mini-physical,
which includes blood pressure, pulse and temperature checks. Anyone who
is at least 17 years old, in good health and weighs at least 110 pounds
is eligible to give blood. A good meal is recommended prior to donation.
For more information contact:
Jeri Copeland, City of Murrieta
951-461-6122
Promise Lutheran Church & Preschool Grand Opening
Promise Lutheran Church and Preschool will be having a Grand Opening
Celebration. Join us on Saturday, September 9, 2006 from 2pm-7pm for the
Grand Opening Celebration. Food, Games, Craft vendors, Music and more.
World Renown Jugglers, Team Rootberry, will provide a free performance.
Bring your chairs or blankets for the performance. Tours of the new
preschool will be from 2pm-4pm.
Located at: 25664 Madison Ave., Murrieta. Located just south of the
Murrieta Wal Mart.
Preschool is currently enrolling for fall. Call 951/600-8201.
Welcome Home, Floyd
Despite recent disappointing news, friends and neighbors of Murrietan
Floyd Landis want him to know his extended local family still admires
what’s he’s accomplished in racing. Landis remains one of the
world’s premier bicycle racers. That he could mount a bike at all with
a bad hip and push himself to such limits deserves admiration. Welcome
home, Floyd.
Armed Robbery Arrest
Date/Time Written: 8/2/2006 12:12
Type of Incident: Armed Robbery Arrest
Date/Time of Incident: 7/31/2006 23:07
Location of Incident: Domino's Pizza; 40119 Murrieta Hot Springs Rd Ste
A-105
Reporting Officer: Sgt. Dennis Vrooman
Reporting Officer Phone: 951-461-6366
File Number: MR06-004949
Incident Summary
Murrieta patrol officers responded to a radio call of an armed robbery
at Domino's Pizza. Information provided by the victim/witness described
the suspect as a white male adult approx. 20 years old, 5-8, 150-160
lbs. The suspect was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt with gray
lettering on the front, and a green camouflage bandana covering his face
in an effort to conceal his identity, and blue jeans. He brandished a
black semi-auto handgun when he demanded money from the front cash
register. When there was no money in this drawer, the suspect then
ordered the clerk to the rear of the store in the office area at
gunpoint and became more insistent and demanding for cash. The
victim/witness relinquished approximately $563.00 cash from the office
cash drawer. The suspect fled the scene on foot and was last seen
running eastbound on the north sidewalk of Murrieta Hot Springs Rd. The
area was checked by responding patrol officers, but the suspect was not
located at this time.
At approximately 1200 hrs on August 1, 2006, Murrieta detectives
received information indicating a named resident of the Villas at Alta
Murrieta apartment complex was possibly involved in robbery. The
complex, located at 39930 Whitewood Ave is only a few hundred yards east
of the Domino's Pizza business.
At approx. 1700 hours, Detectives Jim Gruwell and John Martin stopped
and detained Robert Michael Petty leaving an apartment in the complex
who fit the physical description of the robbery suspect. A search
warrant was conducted on the apartment and clothing was found in Petty's
bedroom which matched the clothing worn by the robbery suspect,
including the camouflage bandana still tied as a mask, the sweatshirt
and the jeans. In Petty's bedroom closet was a stolen 9mm semi-auto
handgun which was taken during a residential burglary in Murrieta in
February 2006.
Petty was taken to the Southwest Detention Center and booked on armed
robbery charges, stolen property and a probation violation.
Armed Robbery
Murrieta Police Department
Press Release
Date/Time Written: 7/30/2006 06:15
Type of Incident: Armed Robbery
Date/Time of Incident: 7/29/2006 18:46
Location of Incident: 41030 California Oaks Road
Reporting Officer: Sgt. J. Flavin
Reporting Officer Phone: 951-696-3615
File Number: MR06-004907
Incident Summary
On Saturday 07/29/06 at approximately 18:46 hours, Murrieta Police
Officers responded to the Fashion Bug clothing store located at 41030
California Oaks Road reference an armed robbery. The suspect entered the
store and confronted one of the employees. The suspect handed the
employee a demand note and brandished a knife. The suspect demanded the
money from the register. After taking the money, the suspect fled the
store on foot. The suspect was last seen running eastbound through the
parking lot toward the area of California Oaks Road and Monroe Avenue.
The suspect was described as a white male adult, 30 years old,
5'-8", 180 pounds, shaved head and wearing a black t-shirt with
white lettering and blue jeans.
The investigation is on-going and anyone with information regarding this
crime is asked to contact the Murrieta Police Department at
951-696-3615.
Safe Driving on
Murrieta’s Streets is Imperative
In an effort to slow down traffic throughout the City of Murrieta,
the police department has implemented its "Safe Streets” and the
"Red Light Camera” programs.
“Safe Streets” is a high-profile program authorizing motor officers
to extend their working day by two hours up to a total of 500 hours.
This allows them to increase their focus on writing speeding tickets on
arterial streets throughout the city. On the first day of the program,
the team issued 26 tickets.
Paying a ticket is not cheap. Fines for up to 15 miles over the speed
limit run around $96, 16 to 25 miles per hour over the posted speed will
cost approximately $170, and for those driving faster, fines can
increase to $340.
Additionally, red light cameras have been installed at the intersection
of Murrieta Hot Springs Road and Margarita Road and westbound at Clinton
Keith Road and Nutmeg Street. The City of Murrieta currently has 75
traffic signals. During the first 15 days of citation writing, the city
recorded 125 violations. Sixty-one of these were citable events.
Both of these programs will assist in reducing traffic accidents in
Murrieta. Please drive carefully.
Bulky Pickups on Demand
With spring just around the corner, homeowner thoughts
are turning to sprucing up the property and how to get rid of those
items that are too big for the trash containers. Residents can now
arrange for bulky item pickups twice a year, whenever they want them, by
calling Waste Management at 800-423-9986. Previously, the pickups were
on two fixed dates in the spring and fall.
|
