(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) “We will handle the Inland Empire’s small business and residential real estate needs, from Pomona to Palm Desert, and from Victorville to Temecula,” said Jack Katzman, owner of ABO Enterprises, Inc.
A commercial real estate center opening April 1 at 12782 California St. in Yucaipa will help small business owners find the right amount of office space to serve their clients effectively, and will match rental property owners with great tenants.
ABO Enterprises, Inc. already owns and leases more than 600 offices from its headquarters in San Bernardino. ABO Enterprises, Inc. also leases office space on behalf of owners of other buildings.
At its new California Street office, ABO Enterprises, Inc. is opening a new division, ABO Real Estate Services. This new division will offer commercial and residential property management, including site management of apartment complexes, commercial and residential property leasing and property maintenance and repairs.
Another division of ABO Enterprises, Inc, SMA Construction, Inc., will also operate from the same location. This company renovates office buildings and homes.
ABO Enterprises, Inc. will offer conventional office space for lease, starting at $200 a month. It also will offer mailbox service for $20 a month and virtual offices for $75 a month.
Mailboxes and virtual offices serve both small business owners who are working from home, and larger business owners who have offices in other cities, need a satellite office to better serve their clients, but may not have the resources to staff another office.
“A mailbox gives them a corporate address and a local phone number,” Katzman explained. “We will collect their mail and answer the phone for them, so they don’t have to miss contacts if they are unavailable.”
“With a virtual office, business owners actually have an office here for eight hours a month,” Katzman said. “When they need to be here, they will have a place they can come and work, with a secretary, high-speed internet access, and the ability to install their own phone line. They also will have access to a conference room and restrooms.”
A conventional office provides not just a place to work full-time and a secure office, but on-site security and janitorial services. Conference rooms and restrooms are in each office suite.
“We have the lowest prices in all of California,” Katzman said. “If anyone can find an office at a lower advertised price, we’ll lease it to them for that price.”
Anyone who is leasing an office from ABO Enterprises, Inc. doesn’t have to worry about it changing owners.
“We buy large, empty buildings, renovate them and lease them, but we never sell the buildings we own,” Katzman said. We will be here to serve our tenants for the long term. We provide them with quality service that isn’t going to go away.”
To learn more about the mailboxes, virtual offices, conventional offices and other real estate services available through ABO Enterprises, Inc. call (909) 886-4123.
ABO Enterprises, Inc. has met the real estate needs of small business owners since 1999. It owns more than 600 offices in buildings throughout Southern California. The luxury real estate listings agency also provides real estate services including property management, purchase and leasing, and property maintenance and renovation.
The San Bernardino County Department of Public Health is urging everyone to know their status and get tested. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) infections continue at high levels, with an estimated 56,300 Americans becoming infected each year. Additionally, more than 18,000 people with Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (AIDS) still die each year in the United States.
While major strides have been made in the treatment of HIV/AIDS, the disease continues its devastating effects on all sectors of American society. The impact however, has become increasingly more serious among women and adults between the ages of 47-65.
The CDC reports that in 2007 more than a quarter of HIV diagnoses in the United States were among women and girls aged 13 years and older. Women are more likely to be infected through sex with a male partner.
Minority women continue to be disproportionately affected by HIV infection. The rate of new HIV infections for African American women is nearly 20 times the rate for white women. The rate of new HIV infection among Hispanic women is nearly four times that of white women.
In San Bernardino County, African American and Hispanic women together accounted for 83% of HIV diagnoses among women in 2009 and 14% of all HIV diagnoses.
Many factors contribute to the increasing rates of HIV infection in adults aged 47-65. One contributing factor is that older adults have often been overlooked by targeted education and prevention messages. Sexually active adults between 47-65 years of age may use condoms less often due to a lower concern of pregnancy, thereby increasing their risk for HIV.
The use of sexual enhancement medications among this age group also contributes to the increased risk of Sexually Transmitted Infections, including HIV. Further, the lack of communication between adults and their doctors regarding sexual practices contributes to a perceived low HIV risk among this group and a lack of testing.
In 2008 adults 50 years of age and older represented 17 percent of all new HIV diagnoses in the United States, Dr. Maxwell Ohikhuare, Health Officer, San Bernardino County Department of Public Health attributes this to “the simple reason that older people don’t get tested for HIV on a regular basis.”
Although HIV is a manageable disease, education and prevention continue to be the ultimate goal in stopping the spread of infection among all groups, especially women and adults ages 47-64.
It is important to be aware of specific challenges faced by women and adults ages 47-64 and to ensure that they are informed and know how to protect themselves from infection. Dr. Ohikhuare states that, “Testing is key in HIV prevention and I encourage everyone to make HIV testing part of their routine medical care.”
For more information about HIV/AIDS and testing, call the San Bernardino County Department of Public Health AIDS Program at (800) 255-6560, or visit the website at WWW.KnowSBC.com.
One way the Salvation Army helps those in need is by helping them to acquire new clothes. It recently did this for victims of an apartment complex fire in San Bernardino. Photo by Chris Sloan
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) As 26 families begin to rebuild their lives after a fire destroyed their homes, the Salvation Army is there to help.
The fire, in the Garden Breeze Apartments near Mill Street and Mt. Vernon Avenue in San Bernardino, broke out in the wee hours of the morning Feb. 20. It caused $1.3 million damage, gutting 26 apartments.
Since then, many of those families have lived in motels, paid for by the American Red Cross and the City of San Bernardino. Other relief organizations such as the Salvation Army are also helping. Many of the displaced tenants lost nearly everything they owned in the fire, and do not have renter’s insurance to replace the items.
“We have given clothing to about 15 families that were displaced by the fire,” said Corps Officer Capt. Stephen Ball. “We are waiting to see if they will need additional help when, over the next few weeks, they transition from local area motels where they were given temporary lodging.”
“We can help them obtain furniture for their new homes,” Capt. Ball continued. “We have also offered to make space available at our Hospitality House Emergency Family Shelter to further assist families who need additional time to secure a new home.”
For help or more information call (909) 888-1336. About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
Work has begun to ease congestion on the Riverside Avenue bridge over Interstate 10 in Rialto. Harber Construction workers Saul Castenoa, Jacob Gracia, Janie Barralaga amd Bruce Siekierski remove the railing of the old bridge. The City of Rialto will close this five-lane bridge in April to replace it with a nine-lane bridge. It anticipates finishing the project in early 2012. Photo by Chris Sloan
The new freeway bridge soon to be built over Interstate 10 at Riverside Avenue in Rialto will resemble the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy. It and the freeway on and off-ramps at Riverside Avenue will also contain features reflecting Rialto’s history as a place where citrus was grown and packed.
(RIALTO, Calif.) Driving on Riverside Avenue over or onto Interstate 10 will soon be easier as the City of Rialto has begun work to widen Riverside Avenue at its intersection with the freeway.
“This interchange has experienced high traffic for years,” said Robb Steel, director of the Rialto Redevelopment Agency. “This creates a safety hazard, as well as long delays.”
The Redevelopment Agency is financing most of the $32 million project. State and federal funds make up the balance, and also will partially reimburse the Redevelopment Agency’s $30 million up-front contribution.
Revenue generated by Measure I, a half-cent sales tax approved by San Bernardino County voters in 2009, also will reimburse a portion of the Redevelopment Agency’s costs.
The City of Rialto’s intersection widening project coordinates with the ongoing California Department of Transportation project to widen the on and off-ramps at the Riverside interchange.
Rialto is working in partnership with the California Department of Transportation and San Bernardino County Associated Governments to complete this $32 million project. When complete, it will replace the existing five-lane bridge with one featuring nine lanes, including two left-turn lanes in either direction.
The new bridge and ramps will give travelers a taste of Rialto’s history. “This is the only interchange on Interstate 10 that is completely within Rialto’s city limits,” Steel said. “The City wants to make sure it showcases Rialto in an attractive way.”
The bridge itself will be fashioned in the style of the Rialto Bridge in Venice, Italy, which is depicted in Rialto’s City seal. Under the bridge, travelers along Interstate 10 will see decorative walls incorporating the city seal. This seal will also decorate the ends of the bridge’s support columns.
When entering or exiting a ramp facing Valley Boulevard, travelers will see walls featuring oranges and grapes, in a nod to Rialto’s early history as a center for packing houses.
The first phase of this project is to replace the existing one-lane on and off-ramps with two-lane ramps. The existing ramps will remain open during the project, except for brief closures (usually between 10 p.m. and 4 a.m.)
Construction of the bridge itself is expected to take about seven months, beginning in April. During this time, traffic will detour by taking either Valley Boulevard or Slover Avenue to Cedar Avenue, or by taking Rancho Avenue and Agua Mansa Road to continue south on Riverside Avenue. Drivers may also use the Interstate 10 on and off-ramps, provided they can access them without crossing over the freeway.
After the finishing touches, which include installing new signals and painting new lane stripes, the City of Rialto will hold a dedication ceremony for this project. The goal is to have everything completed in early 2012.
The Rialto Interchange is one of several projects the Rialto Redevelopment Agency is currently funding. Others include:
$15 million to extend Pepper Avenue to the 210 Freeway, opening up 175 acres for future economic development.
$5.8 million to replace the fire station that was at 1925 N. Riverside Avenue. The new fire station will have modern features, allowing firefighters and paramedics to better serve Rialto residents.
$7 million to improve Fergusson Park, including creating two new football fields.
$2.4 million to relocate utilities and upgrade infrastructure on the old, recently demolished fire station property, making the freeway-frontage location suitable for new commercial development.
$2 million for construction of 75 units of senior housing on Foothill Boulevard.
$1 million to expand the Rialto Library and add a new computer lab.
“The Rialto Redevelopment Agency has an aggressive redevelopment program to reshape the community and help both businesses and residents,” Steel said.
For more information about how the Rialto Redevelopment Agency can help a business to upgrade, expand or relocate within the city, contact Robb Steel at (909) 879-1140.
About Rialto
Although the City of Rialto is located in the middle of one of the nation’s fastest growing regions, it has retained a small town atmosphere and similar quality of life. Rialto is an ethnically diverse and progressive community, which boasts several unique community assets including its own police and fire departments, a city-owned fitness center (see their yourelliptical schwinn review), performing arts theater, nine beautiful parks, a community center and senior center. Rialto is within easy range of mountains, beaches, deserts and other recreational areas.
Rialto’s housing mix and home costs are some of the most affordable in Southern California. First-time homebuyers find Rialto more affordable than almost any other comparable community in the region. Executives and those seeking high-end residences also find they can purchase much more home for their money in Rialto. This lower cost translates into more discretionary income for residents, thus benefiting retailers and service providers.
For more information about Rialto, go to www.rialtoca.gov or call (909) 879-1140.
-end-
Media: If you would like any of the photos in the slide show below please send an email to Chris@DameronCommunications.com with the photo id number and i will have it to you within 24 hours. If you require the photo sooner please call Chris Sloan at (909) 888-0017.
The Rialto Women’s Conference featured a panel discussion by four female elected officials – Rialto Unified School District Board Member Joanne Gilbert, Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren, San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor and Board Chairman Josie Gonzales and California Assembly Member Wilmer Amina Carter. Photo by Chris Sloan
Anita Iglesias, senior accounting assistant for the City of Rialto; Milele Robertson, associate transportation planner for the California Department of Transportation; and Lelia “Charli” Harris, a media arts major at California State University, Dominguez Hills, formed a second panel at the Rialto Women’s Conference. These women are graduates of Rialto’s Bethune Center, where as high school students they learned job-seeking and career development skills. The Bethune Center’s sponsor, the Inland Empire Chapter of the National Council of Negro Women, co-hosted this conference. The conference host, Deborah Robertson, is the mother of Milele Robertson and grandmother of Lelia Harris. Photo by Chris Sloan
Rialto Council Member Deborah Robertson, along with City Clerk Barbara McGee and the Inland Empire chapter of the National Council of Negro Women, hosted a women’s conference at the Rialto Senior Center on Saturday, March 5. At the conference, four female elected officials and three young women shared how their strengths have helped them achieve. Photo by Chris Sloan
(RIALTO, Calif.) Rialto celebrated Women’s History Month on Saturday, March 5 by examining what local women have done, and still need to do, to improve life in the Inland Empire.
The Fifth Annual Rialto Women’s Conference highlighted the contributions of four women who currently serve as elected officials representing the Inland Empire, and three younger women. These seven women made up two panels whose discussions tied into the national Women’s History Month celebration theme of “Our History, Our Strength.”
The elected officials were State Assembly Member Wilmer Amina Carter, San Bernardino County Fifth District Supervisor and Board Chairman Josie Gonzales, Fontana Mayor Acquanetta Warren and Rialto Unified School District Governing Board Member Joanne Gilbert. These women shared how they serve their community in their elected office, what challenges they have faced, and what they hope for the future.
State Senator Gloria Negrete McLeod had also been confirmed to speak at the conference, but did not attend because of a family illness.
Rialto Unified School District voters re-elected Gilbert to the Board of Trustees in November. Although she received the highest number of votes, and almost 1,000 more than any other candidate, Gilbert said she wasn’t certain of her re-election during the campaign.
“By electing me, we were able to maintain a female voice on the Rialto school board,” Gilbert said. “It is very important that we maintain diversity, because while we have done much for our students, we are still striving for excellence.”
Gilbert also noted voter support of Measure Y, which allows Rialto Unified School District to obtain funding for school modernization, will help the district to improve children’s education.
Voters elected Mayor Warren as Fontana’s first-ever Black mayor in November. She had previously served on the Fontana City Council since 2002.
During the conference, Warren emphasized the importance of all women working with each other to improve their communities.
“As women, we all have to help each other,” she said. “Women make the difference, but we are not active enough. If we don’t stand up for what we believe, the result could be bad for everyone.”
Warren urged all women attending the conference to be concerned not only about their own communities, but all of the Inland Empire, and to be advocates for their families.
“We have to take those little jewels we are raising and make sure they get what they need,” she said. “We only have one chance. If we don’t get it right, we will leave behind a generation of uneducated, uninformed and illiterate people.”
Supervisor Gonzales also urged women to support each other. She likened a network of people who work for each other’s best interests to a warm blanket.
“A continuum of support keeps us warm and safe,” she said. “It takes every single one of us, and the God-given strengths we have been blessed with.”
Gonzales acknowledged needing support from others recently, including the only other woman on the Board of Supervisors, Second District Supervisor Janice Rutherford. Without Rutherford’s support, and that of Fourth District Supervisor Gary Ovitt, Gonzales would not have been elected chairman of the Board of Supervisors in January.
“There is a brick wall that is camouflaged as a door,” she said. “Prejudice still exists in 2011.”
Gonzales urged women to overcome prejudice they face, for whatever reason, by exerting the same reliance on support from others as she does.
“We’re not quitters,” she said. “To get what you need, figure out who you need to network with. Who do you need to identify with to build a base of strength?”
“You are intelligent. You are strong. I am proud to count myself among you,” she said.
Assembly Member Carter urged women to focus on the needs of a larger area, the entire state of California. She also assured participants the state government can still be a resource in helping to meet residents’ needs.
“We don’t have any money right now, but I still serve, and I still can provide some hope,” she said. “We still have resources. My job is to find them and bring them to you. I serve the whole state. What works for one district works for the whole state.”
National Council of Negro Women Inland Empire Chapter President Lois Carson moderated the elected official’s panel discussion. Carson, the recently retired executive director of Riverside County Community Action Partnership, is herself a former elected official, having served as a member of the San Bernardino Valley College Board of Trustees.
Rialto Council Member Deborah Robertson and City Clerk Barbara McGee hosted the conference, along with the Inland Empire Chapter of the National Council of Negro Women.
Susan Doyle, executive director of the chapter’s Bethune Center in Rialto, moderated the younger women’s discussion. These women, who took part in the Bethune Center’s job preparation program as high school students, shared how that program has shaped their careers since then.
Deborah Robertson’s daughter Milele Robertson, associate transportation planner with the California Department of Transportation, and her granddaughter Lelia “Charli” Harris, a media arts major at California State University, Dominguez Hills, were two of the three speakers on the panel. Anita Iglesia, a senior accounting assistant for the City of Rialto, also spoke.
For Deborah Robertson, the Women’s Conference was a family event. Not only did she host, and two members of her family speak, but her mother, two toddler-aged granddaughters and their mother also were among the approximately 120 women who attended.
Other female elected officials attending include Rialto Mayor Grace Vargas who gave a welcome address, and council members Susan Olivas of Colton, Debbie Franklin of Banning and Lydia Wilbert of Fontana.
About Rialto
Although the City of Rialto is located in the middle of one of the nation’s fastest growing regions, it has retained a small town atmosphere and similar quality of life. Rialto is an ethnically diverse and progressive community, which boasts several unique community assets including its own police and fire departments, a city-owned fitness center, performing arts theater, nine beautiful parks, a community center and senior center. Rialto is near mountains, beaches, deserts and other recreational areas.
Rialto’s housing mix and home costs are some of the most affordable in the southern California region. First-time homebuyers find Rialto more affordable than almost any other comparable community in the region. Executives and those seeking high-end homes also find they can purchase much more home for their money in Rialto. This lower cost translates into more discretionary income for residents, thus benefiting retailers and service providers.
For more information about Rialto, go to www.rialtoca.gov or call (909) 820-2525.
-end-
Media: If you would like any of the photos in the slide show below please send an email to Chris@DameronCommunications.com with the photo id number and I will have it to you within 24 hours. If you require the photo sooner please call Chris Sloan at (909) 888-0017.
Pine Summit Retreat in Big Bear Lake is in a beautiful forest location, not far from San Bernardino, but far enough that many of the youth served by the Salvation Army have never been there. They will have an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Pine Summit when they attend the Salvation Army’s division retreat April 8-10, but first will raise money for the retreat by holding a car wash on Saturday, March 26 at the Corps Headquarters.
Like these recent guests to Pine Summit Retreat in Big Bear Lake, youth from the Salvation Army will enjoy a time of fellowship when they attend their division retreat there from April 8-10. The Salvation Army youth will hold a car wash on Saturday, March 26 at the Corps Headquarters, 746 W. Fifth St. ,to raise money for the retreat.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps youth will hold a car wash Saturday, March 26 at the Corps Headquarters, 746 W. Fifth St., 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Money raised from the car wash will help sponsor youth attending a spring retreat at Pine Summit in Big Bear Lake, April 8-10.
“We will send 15 to 20 youth to our division’s retreat,” said Kelly Raabe, the Young People’s Sergeant Major for the San Bernardino Corps.
“The retreat is an opportunity for our young people ages 14 and up, to get out of San Bernardino and to visit the beautiful mountains that they have seen their whole lives from afar but never had the chance to experience first hand,” Raabe said. “We need help to send these kids on an adventure of a lifetime.”
Free time activities at the retreat include a rock wall, ropes course, bungee run, paintball and tubing if there is snow.
The Salvation Army will accept a donation of any amount for the car wash.
Raabe hopes the car wash will raise about $2,000, which will pay for most of the cost of the retreat. Each Corps must pay $125 per young person attending.
“We are asking our youth to pay $20 each,” she said. “Some of them don’t even have that.”
The Salvation Army also will accept mail-in donations from those who can’t take part in the car wash, but still want to help send youth to the retreat. To make a contribution, mail donations to the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps Headquarters, 746. W Fifth St., San Bernardino, CA 92410.
If the car wash fundraiser and other donations specifically for the retreat aren’t enough to pay the expense of each youth who wishes to attend, the Salvation Army will use its general fund to cover the difference. However, with larger fundraisers held in 2010 barely meeting their goals, the Salvation Army’s general fund budget is tight this year.
For more information about how you can help, call (909) 888-1336. About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
For local help, call (909) 888-1336.
Orange County homeowners packed the multipurpose room at Ladera Ranch Middle School to learn proper steps to avoiding foreclosure. Photo by Chris Sloan
(left to right) Kevin Blackburn- Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco Assistant Vice President Legislative and Regulatory Affairs, Ken Calvert-Member of Congress 44th District of California and Dwight Alexander-Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco Vice President Director of Legislative and Regulatory Affairs, provided their services during the free Home Preservation Workshop for homeowners facing foreclosure. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Ken Calvert-Member of Congress 44th District of California addressing audience of concerned homeowners. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Ray Brewer, Acting US Housing and Urban Development Santa Anna Field Office Director, providing his time as panelist and moderator during the workshop. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Panelist Aaron Horvath, representing Springboard Solutions. Photo by Chris Sloan.
Melissa Luna, Paralegal for Legal Aid Society of Orange County, provided consulting services during the free workshop. Photo by Chris Sloan.
(LADERA RANCH, Calif.) More than 300 homeowners gathered at Ladera Ranch Middle School to receive free guidance in saving their home from foreclosure, as part of a Home Preservation Workshop, hosted by Congressman Ken Calvert, the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (FHLB) and the Orange County Home Ownership Preservation Collaborative.
By partnering with the Housing Opportunities Collaborative of the Inland Empire, Village Presbyterian Church and Ladera Ranch community leaders like Springboard president and CEO Todd Emerson, nearly150 distressed families received face-to-face personal assistance from US Housing and Urban Development (HUD) approved housing counseling agencies.
“This is an opportunity for homeowners to communicate one-on-one with the people and agencies that can make a difference,” said Emerson. “With both credit and legal counseling, as well as the major banking institutions all under one roof, I believe we are providing families in danger of losing their homes the best possibility to avoid foreclosure and modify their home loans.”
In fact, for homeowners in need of counseling, a variety of HUD approved counseling agencies such as Springboard, Consumer Credit Counseling Service-Orange County, Fair Housing Council-Orange County and Neighborhood Housing Service-Orange County were on hand to answer questions and provide insight into their current situation.
The event, which attracted local residents from Ladera Ranch and nearby communities, including Mission Viejo, Fullerton, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley and as far away as Los Angeles, Riverside and San Bernardino counties, also provided one-on-one counseling by the Legal Aid Society of Orange County and the Public Law Center.
One of the event’s highlights included a presentation on the Keep Your Home California (KYHC) programs, which are focused on assisting eligible families to stay in their homes, when possible, and leveraging additional contributions from participating mortgage servicers.
“One particularly appealing program under KYHC is the Unemployment Mortgage Assistance Program (UMA),” continued Emerson. “This is a unique program that provides direct mortgage financial support for qualified, unemployed homeowners for up to six months.”
One of the things stressed during the workshop, was communication as an essential requirement for what to do when faced with foreclosure. The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (also known as Freddie Mac) encourages homeowners to do the following:
DON’T fall victim to a scheme. Unfortunately, some people want to profit by your misfortune by offering to contact and conduct all work-outs and negotiations with your lender on your behalf – for a fee.
DO call your lender immediately. If you have already missed a mortgage payment or predict you will in the near future, call your lender right away. Your lender is your biggest ally and the sooner you reach out for assistance, the more help they can provide.
DO answer the phone and read your mail. Avoiding your lender won’t make the problem go away. In fact, it will only make the problem worse. Your lender may be able to help you, so be sure to answer the phone and read any mail they may have sent you.
DO realistically assess your situation. Are your financial problems temporary? If so, call your lender and let them know the situation. Lenders may be able to offer a forbearance or repayment plan.
DO call a housing counselor for assistance. Housing counselors can help you contact and work with your lender to get help with your mortgage and provide advice to avoid foreclosure – free of charge. For a list of approved counselors call the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) at (800) 569-4287 or visit Hud.gov.
DON’T move out of your home. In order to qualify for assistance, homeowners are often required to be living in their home.
DO protect your wealth. Recognize that you may have significant equity in your property that must be preserved.
DO be aware of certain financial responsibilities. Even if your lender sells your property, you may still be responsible for the difference in the sale price and what you owe, as well as certain taxes when a lender forecloses on your property.
DON’T ignore the problem. It may be possible to keep your home, but if you wait to take action, fewer options will be available. You have certain rights and can take certain actions to help you keep your home; however, you only have a limited amount of time to assert those rights or take those actions.
DO talk to a lawyer or legal aid organization. Your rights vary from state to state. Most states and large cities have legal aid organizations; to find one near you, go to the Legal Services Corporation, a government-sponsored organization that provides high-quality civil legal assistance to low-income Americans.
“When you get right down to it, the key is to communicate with your lender to discover what can be done in your situation. Lack of communication will only make things difficult for you to resolve and remove your options to save your home,” said Emerson.
Financial institutions participating in the free Home Preservation Workshop included: the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, the Orange County Home Ownership Preservation Collaborative, US Bank, GMAC, American Home Mortgage, Wells Fargo Bank, Chase Bank, HSBC Bank, PNC Bank, Bank of America and Fannie Mae.
The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco
The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco delivers low-cost funding and other services that help member financial institutions make home mortgages to people of all income levels and provide credit that supports neighborhoods and communities. The Bank also funds community investment programs that help members create affordable housing and promote community economic development. The Bank’s members – its shareholders and customers – are commercial banks, credit unions, savings institutions, thrift and loans, and insurance companies headquartered in Arizona, California, and Nevada.
####
Media: If you would like any of the photos in the slide show below please send an email to Chris@DameronCommunications.com with the photo id number and I will have it to you within 24 hours. If you require the photo sooner please call Chris Sloan at (909) 888-0017.
A bulldozer finishes tearing down a dilapidated and abandoned fire station at 1925 N. Riverside Ave. It will now begin a project to upgrade infrastructure on the property, to make it suitable for new development. The City will soon also build a new fire station. Photo by Chris Sloan
The City of Rialto has torn down a dilapidated and abandoned fire station at 1925 N. Riverside Ave. It will now begin a project to upgrade the property’s infrastructure, making it suitable for new development. The City will soon also build a new fire station. Photo by Chris Sloan
(RIALTO, Calif.) An abandoned fire station has given way to what is expected to soon become a hub of restaurants, starting when In-N-Out Burger opens a new location on Riverside Avenue near the 210 Freeway in Rialto.
In-N-Out Burger has already committed to establishing a restaurant at 1925 N. Riverside Ave. Local developer Fernando Acosta is working to bring in two more restaurants.
“Three new restaurants off the freeway at Riverside Avenue will bring economic benefit to the City of Rialto, from the sales the restaurants make, from the enhanced value of the property, and from the jobs many young people will have to work in these restaurants,” said Mayor Grace Vargas. “In-N-Out Burger by itself will create about 60 new jobs.”
“They also make Rialto a better place to live, by giving our residents more options for casual dining,” Vargas said.
“Taking abandoned properties, which are considered blighted, and turning them into something that benefits a city is the key purpose of redevelopment agencies,” Redevelopment Agency Director Robb Steel said. “Without our help, private development of this highly valuable property would have been unlikely for the foreseeable future.”
“The abandoned building is too close to the freeway to be used safely as a fire station,” Steel said. “The property around the fire station was three parcels that had been cut up by the freeway onramp and the reconfiguration of Highland Avenue.”
“No one could use this location without the major infrastructure upgrades taking place, Steel continued. “This property was too valuable to the city to let it simply go to waste. That’s why the Rialto Redevelopment Agency is investing to transform this into a usable location.”
“After we moved forward with our plans to develop this property, In-N-Out Burger committed to coming here. Since then, other restaurants have contacted the Redevelopment Agency to express their interest in doing business at the same location,” Steel said.
The City of Rialto Redevelopment Agency is investing about $2.4 million in the project. It has already purchased some of the property adjacent to the fire station from the California Department of Transportation. It then demolished the fire station and upgraded the infrastructure in the area. The Redevelopment Agency also must relocate a cell tower and utility lines, and install a traffic signal at the property’s parking lot entrance.
To make the property useable again, the Redevelopment Agency had to create a single lot out of the three separate, unusable parcels. Another necessity is to relocate underground utility lines, which had been put in without consideration for future development. And, so that passenger vehicles may safely access these restaurants, a traffic signal must be installed for this project.
“Because of these challenges, this project faced greater expense than normally would be required of a retail project,” Vargas said. “This project must bear the entire cost for public improvements that would normally be borne by a much larger geographic area.”
“Just because this location needed a lot of financial help, doesn’t mean we won’t help other businesses as well,” Steel noted. “For as long as we have a Redevelopment Agency, Rialto will help small businesses who are already here upgrade, expand, or relocate within the city, and we will bring new businesses in, which will increase our economic well-being.”
“We have already provided help to many small businesses, both in downtown Rialto and along Foothill Boulevard, which were seeking to acquire or rehabilitate commercial structures,” Steel added. “Two examples are Coffee Nutz and Johnson’s Hardware.”
In-N-Out Burger restaurant’s property transformation is one of several projects the Rialto Redevelopment Agency is currently funding. Others include:
$30 million to widen the Riverside Avenue interchange at Interstate 10. This project will reduce congestion and improve economic development opportunities at this intersection.
$15 million to extend Pepper Avenue to the 210 Freeway, opening up 175 acres for future economic development.
$5.8 million to replace the fire station that was at 1925 N. Rialto Ave. The new fire station will have modern features, allowing firefighters and paramedics to serve Rialto residents better.
$7 million to improve Fergusson Park, including creating two new football fields.
$2 million for the construction of 75 units of senior housing on Foothill Boulevard at Cactus Avenue.
$1 million to expand the Rialto Library and add a new computer lab.
“The Rialto Redevelopment Agency has an aggressive program to reshape the community and help both businesses and residents,” Steel said.
For more information about how the Rialto Redevelopment Agency can help a business to upgrade, expand, or relocate within the city, contact Robb Steel at (909) 879-1140 or (909) 879-1149.
About Rialto
Although the City of Rialto is located in the middle of one of the nation’s fastest-growing regions, it has retained a small-town atmosphere and similar quality of life. Rialto is an ethnically diverse and progressive community, which boasts several unique community assets including its own police and fire departments, a city-owned fitness center, a performing arts theater, nine beautiful parks, a community center, and a senior center. Rialto is near mountains, beaches, deserts, and other recreational areas.
Rialto’s housing mix and home costs are some of the most affordable in the southern California region. First-time homebuyers find Rialto more affordable than almost any other comparable community in the region. Executives and those seeking high-end homes also find they can purchase many more homes for their money in Rialto. This lower cost translates into more discretionary income for residents, thus benefiting retailers and service providers.
For more information about Rialto, go to www.ci.rialto.ca <http://www.ci.rialto.ca> or call (909) 820-2525.
Basic hygiene supplies, socks and other items are appreciated as donations to the San Bernardino Corps of the Salvation Army, which gives them to guests of its Hospitality House. Many of these guests lack the resources to provide for their own most basic needs.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) The Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps’ Hospitality House emergency family shelter has an ongoing need for personal items to help its residents.
“Our Hospitality House residents are facing especially hard times, so we give them not just shelter and food, but also other necessities that most people take for granted,” said Corps Officer Nancy Ball. “Since the residents have an ongoing need for these items, it is a great help to us when we receive them as donations instead of having to purchase them.”
The needed personal items are:
Diapers (all sizes)
Baby wipes
Feminine hygiene products
Combs and brushes
Toothpaste
Toothbrushes
Dental floss
Body/hand soap
Hand lotion
Deodorant (men’s and women’s)
Shampoo
Razors
Blankets
Towels
Wash cloths
Socks (men’s women’s and children’s)
To make a donation, call the San Bernardino Corps Headquarters at (909) 888-1336 or drop off the donations at the Headquarters building, 746 W. Fifth Street, San Bernardino. About the Salvation Army San Bernardino Corps
The Salvation Army may be able to provide emergency services including food; lodging for homeless or displaced families; clothing and furniture; assistance with rent or mortgage and transportation when funds are available. The Salvation Army Team Radio Network assists rescue workers and evacuees in such disasters as fires.
The Salvation Army is an evangelical part of the Universal Christian Church, and also offers evangelical programs for boys, girls and adults. One of the largest charitable and international service organizations in the world, The Salvation Army has been in existence since 1865 and in San Bernardino since 1887, supporting those in need without discrimination. Donations may always be made online at www.salvationarmyusa.org or by calling 1-(800)-SAL-ARMY.
(LADERA RANCH, Calif.) On February 26, homeowners facing foreclosure can receive help thanks to a free Home Preservation Workshop, hosted by Congressman Ken Calvert, the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco (FHLB) and the Orange County Home Ownership Preservation Collaborative, at the Ladera Ranch Middle School in Mission Viejo at 9:00 a.m.
Foreclosures aren’t just happening to people who made bad financial decisions and agreed to a risky loan. In fact, they include homeowners who are getting divorced, facing health issues, needing to relocate for a job, and numerous other reasons.
The workshop provides free one-on-one meetings with housing counselors and lenders giving homeowners an opportunity to either initiate a loan modification or clarify where they are in the process. The goal is to give anyone facing foreclosure the opportunity to learn which options are best for his or her family.
“Due to difficult financial times, many people are forced to deal with the foreclosure process,” said Lawrence H. Parks, Senior Vice President of External Affairs for Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco. “Regardless of the reason why you are falling behind on your mortgage, knowing what to do next is very important.”
So what are the things homeowners should do when facing foreclosure? The Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (also known as Freddie Mac) encourages homeowners to do the following:
DON’T fall victim to a scheme. Unfortunately, some people want to profit by your misfortune by offering to contact and conduct all work-outs and negotiations with your lender on your behalf – for a fee.
DO call your lender immediately. If you have already missed a mortgage payment or predict you will in the near future, call your lender right away. Your lender is your biggest ally and the sooner you reach out for assistance, the more help they can provide.
DO answer the phone and read your mail. Avoiding your lender won’t make the problem go away. In fact, it will only make the problem worse. Your lender may be able to help you, so be sure to answer the phone and read any mail they may have sent you.
DO realistically assess your situation. Are your financial problems temporary? If so, call your lender and let them know the situation. Lenders may be able to offer a forbearance or repayment plan.
DO call a housing counselor for assistance. Housing counselors can help you contact and work with your lender to get help with your mortgage and provide advice to avoid foreclosure – free of charge. For a list of approved counselors call the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD) at (800) 569-4287 or visit Hud.gov.
DON’T move out of your home. In order to qualify for assistance, homeowners are often required to be living in their home.
DO protect your wealth. Recognize that you may have significant equity in your property that must be preserved.
DO be aware of certain financial responsibilities. Even if your lender sells your property, you may still be responsible for the difference in the sale price and what you owe, as well as certain taxes when a lender forecloses on your property.
DON’T ignore the problem. It may be possible to keep your home, but if you wait to take action, fewer options will be available. You have certain rights and can take certain actions to help you keep your home; however, you only have a limited amount of time to assert those rights or take those actions.
DO talk to a lawyer or legal aid organization. Your rights vary from state to state. Most states and large cities have legal aid organizations; to find one near you, go to the Legal Services Corporation, a government-sponsored organization that provides high-quality civil legal assistance to low-income Americans.
“We are here to help you,” continued Parks. “For many of the people that are facing foreclosure, there are solutions that might help save your home. The key is to communicate with your lender to discover what can be done in your situation. That is really what the workshop is all about, communication.”
Financial institutions participating in the free Home Preservation Workshop include: the Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco, the Orange County Home Ownership Preservation Collaborative, US Bank, GMAC, American Home Mortgage, Wells Fargo Bank, Chase Bank, HSBC Bank, PNC Bank, Bank of America and Fannie Mae.
Homeowners who wish to attend should bring:
· Copies of your recent mortgage statement
· Copies of your two most current pay stubs
· Copies of your most recent 2 years’ W2s
· Copies of your most recent 2 years’ tax returns
· A list of your monthly expenses To get more information or to register for the workshop, call (714) 490-1250 or visit OC.MyHousingForAll.org/
The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco
The Federal Home Loan Bank of San Francisco delivers low-cost funding and other services that help member financial institutions make home mortgages to people of all income levels and provide credit that supports neighborhoods and communities. The Bank also funds community investment programs that help members create affordable housing and promote community economic development. The Bank’s members – its shareholders and customers – are commercial banks, credit unions, savings institutions, thrift and loans, and insurance companies headquartered in Arizona, California, and Nevada.
(SAN BERNARDINO, Calif.) “We will handle the Inland Empire’s small business and residential real estate needs, from Pomona to Palm Desert, and from Victorville to Temecula,” said Jack Katzman, owner of ABO Enterprises, Inc.
