Volume 132 | August 12 - 16, 2019
MoVal's Iconic M
Getting Ready for Colors Again!
We sure hope the old adage is true that lightning never strikes twice. That's because it was a lightning strike earlier this year that knocked out the color lighting system for Moreno Valley's iconic M up on Box Springs Mountain.

Turns out getting it fixed is more challenging than you'd think. The City was able to borrow a makeshift system to light up the M for July 4th festivities, but a permanent fix is now on the way. We hope to have the colorful M back in service in mid-September -- fingers crossed -- with a few upgrades to help protect against another lightning strike!
Picture of the Week: "National Night Out"
Brings Community and Police Together
Public safety works best when it's a joint effort between first-responders and our community. So it makes sense that if they're going to work together they should get to know each other.

The recent National Night Out event was a great opportunity for that to happen. Sponsored by MoVal Police at Celebration Park, National Night Out featured games and crafts for kids and families, and a relaxed atmosphere in which residents and police could mingle in a non-emergency situation. And it provided a golden opportunity for this young resident to try out one of those cool police motorcycles!
Last Chance to Buy Your Ticket for August 22
“State of the City”
Join  Mayor Yxstian A. Gutierrez  as he delivers his 2019 State of the City address at this special luncheon on  Thursday, August 22 . This year's theme is Community. Get your tickets online at Eventbrite .

The City of Moreno Valley is enhancing public safety, investing millions in road repair, and attracting national, international and Fortune 500 companies with our award-winning Economic Development programs. Learn about the many ways we're improving the quality of life for our residents, businesses and visitors.
Crews Busy Repairing 57 Streets This Summer
Moreno Valley roads support a lot of traffic every day of the year, which takes its toll on the pavement. But road workers are busy this summer, working to complete 57 road repair projects, which are part of this year's Citywide Pavement Rehabilitation program.

Projects range from slurry seal -- where a truck moves slowly down the street, filling cracks along the way with a blanket of liquidy asphalt mixture -- to pavement replacement.
How to Avoid a Backyard BBQ Burn-down
Sure, a backyard BBQ is all fun and games, until something goes terribly wrong -- like a giant fire! Follow these MoVal Fire Dept. safety tips to make sure the only things you burn this year are your “famous” burgers:
 
  • Propane and charcoal grills should ONLY be used outdoors.
  • Place grills AWAY from the home and deck railings, and away from eaves or overhanging branches.
  • DO NOT wear loose clothing, and watch for dangling apron strings.
  • Keep children and your pets AWAY from the cooking area.
  • NEVER leave the BBQ unattended.
  • Keep a FIRE EXTINGUISHER within reach.
Employers: Hire an Employee
or Independent Contractor?
There are tax and reporting implications every employer should understand before deciding whether to take on an employee or contract for services instead. Learn all about the pros and cons of each situation at this Small Business Wednesday event:

Wed., August 28, 9 a.m. - noon
Employment Resource Center
12625 Frederick St., Suite K-3
Moreno Valley

Pet of the Week Video: Baby Jade
Meet Jade (A498907) . She's a Domestic Shorthair, and a beautiful black-and-white "tuxedo" kitten, but she couldn't care less. Jade is just three-months old and, like any little one, she just wants to play and explore! All this baby cat needs is a home and loving human companions. Maybe she could join your family!

And during Feline Adoption Frenzy every Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday this month, it would only cost $15!

Please visit the Moreno Valley Animal Shelter located at 14041 Elsworth St. to inquire about adopting little Jade and other dogs and cats searching for life companions. Animal Services can be reached at 951-413-3790 .