Author Archives: ABC Public Relations

Rents Still Skyrocketing?

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

I have reported on home values rising fast in Diamond Bar. Today, we take a look at how fast rents are increasing as well.

Home values typically follow the pattern of economic recessions, with prices increasing as the economy improves, and peaking at about the same time or slightly after the economy has reached its zenith.  Rents, however, appear to be immune to the rise and fall or cyclical nature of home prices or home values.  The predictable thing about home rental values is that over the years, they have consistently trended upward.

As an example, where home values took a dive of almost 30-40% during the Great Recession, rents maintained a level or flat trendline.  Since the end of the Great Recession in 2009, property values across the United States have come roaring back to their current heights.  The median sales price of a Diamond Bar single family residence (SFR) in the First quarter of 2018 reached a level of $735,000.  That represented an increase of 56% from the median sales price of $470,000.00 in the first quarter of 2010.

The Diamond Bar median rental rate for a Single Family Residence (detached) in the first quarter of 2018 stood at $2,860.00. This represented an increase of 30% from the median rental rate of $2,200.00   where it was in the middle of the aftermath of the Great Recession.  This represents an increase of $660.00 per month, which is not an insignificant number, but it is not the “stratospheric” increase seen in the  single family resale market values.  The rate of increase of rentals (30%) in the same period has been almost half of what the rate of the median price increase of homes values (56%) from 2010 to 2018.

This article was written by Nef Cortez who is a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca BRE # 00560181, licensed since 1976. He can be reached for more information via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com, or website www.nefcortez.com. Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.

 

Two Arrested for DUI at Checkpoint

By City of Chino

The Chino PD Traffic Unit conducted a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint on Friday, August 24, 2018, at 11900 Central Avenue between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 1:00 a.m. Checkpoints are placed in locations that have the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driving deterrence and provide the greatest safety for officers and the public.

 

In recent years, California has seen a disturbing increase in drug-impaired driving crashes.  Your PD supports the new effort from the Office of Traffic Safety that aims to educate all drivers that “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze.”  If you take prescription drugs, particularly those with a driving or operating machinery warning on the label, you might be impaired enough to get a DUI.  Marijuana can also be impairing, especially in combination with alcohol or other drugs, and can result in a DUI.

 

Studies of California drivers have shown that 30 percent of drivers in fatal crashes had one or more drugs in their systems. A study of active drivers showed more tested positive for drugs that may impair driving (14 percent) than did for alcohol (7.3 percent).  Of the drugs, marijuana was most prevalent, at 7.4 percent, slightly more than alcohol.

 

The checkpoint resulted in the following:

  • 963 vehicles screened
  • 2 DUI arrests
  • 3 other arrests (two warrants/one for drugs)
  • 7 drivers cited for operating a vehicle unlicensed or while suspended or revoked
  • 18 other citations for various infractions
  • 6 vehicles impounded or stored

 

Drivers are encouraged to download the Designated Driver VIP, or “DDVIP,” free mobile app for Android or iPhone.  The DDVIP app helps find nearby bars and restaurants that feature free incentives for the designated sober driver, from free non-alcoholic drinks to free appetizers and more.  The feature-packed app even has social media tie-ins and even a tab for the non-DD to call Uber, Lyft or Curb.

 

Drivers caught driving impaired can expect the impact of a DUI arrest to include jail time, fines, fees, DUI classes, license suspension and other expenses that can exceed $10,000 not to mention the embarrassment when friends and family find out.

 

The checkpoint was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to ‘Report Drunk Driver – Call 9-1-1’.

Man Lunged Towards Student

Staff Reports

Eastvale – On August 23, at about 3:30 P.M., it was reported a student was walking home from school in the area of Sumner Avenue and Pheasant Knoll Road, in Eastvale.

The student observed a white male adult walking towards him, who subsequently sat on the ground in some bushes concealing himself from view. As the student walked past the subject, the subject lunged towards the student and grabbed his ankle. The student broke free and immediately ran away.

The subject was described as a 50-60-year-old male with a grey beard. He was wearing a red hat, unknown type jacket with gold/tan vertical stripes on the sleeves, and light blue pants (dirty and ripped). He did not have a weapon.

The Eastvale Police Department is dedicated to maintaining a high quality of life and encourages citizens to report any suspicious activity they observe. Parents are also encouraged to remind their children to always be aware of their surroundings and to walk in pairs when possible.

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

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Investigations Bureau at the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station at (951) 955-2600.

 

City Of Chino Hills Adopts Extra Fee for Credit Card Users

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Beginning September 10, the City of Chino Hills will be adding a 2.5% convenience fee when payments are made via credit and/or debit cards. This fee passes the cost of credit card transactions to the customer paying by credit or debit card. The extra charge will affect customers registering for City classes, programs, and events; and paying for facility rentals; permits; document copies; passport execution and passport photo fees; and, other payments made to the City. Customers making payments by cash or check won’t be affected by the new fee. This convenience fee will also not apply to utility bill payments, or any charges related to utilities, because those credit card transaction charges were already built into the rates. “The City of Chino Hills works to allocate the cost of service to the person benefiting from the service,” said Christa Buhagiar, Finance Director. “This credit card convenience fee is a continuation of that philosophy and charges the credit card customer the costs associated with processing the transaction.” According to Buhagiar, the City is currently absorbing approximately $20,000 for non-utility credit card transactions over the course of a year.

17th Annual Fall Career Fair at Mt. SAC

Mt. San Antonio College Career & Transfer Services will be hosting its 17th Annual Fall Career Fair on Tuesday, October 2, 2018 from 10:00am to 1:00pm between Buildings 4 and 61 .We would like to extend a ‘Request to Attend’ our  Fall  Career Fair to recruit students for your current and future job openings. There is no charge associated with your participation in this event. However, you must be a registered organization with Mountie CareerSource to attend. Upon being approved, you will receive a confirmation. All non-approved requests will not be permitted to participate or show up on the day of the event. Space is limited, so please submit your request as soon as possible. 

The event will be combined with educational careers, general careers as well as technical and industrial careers. This combined event will provide a more efficient use of our campus resources and provide our students with the opportunity to meet employers representing each field.

As an employer you will also have the opportunity to meet with our Career Services Specialists staff to share information regarding your industry needs.  We value your input and participation and look forward to seeing you at this event.  

Please note, to request to attend this Career Fair you must log in to your Mountie CareerSource account at https://mtsac-csm.symplicity.com/employers. Click on the events tab and proceed to the Career Fairs tab to submit your request. Please request before Thursday, September 20, 2018. This event is absolutely FREE and lunch for ONLY TWO REPRESENTATIVES will be provided and a parking permit will be provided. Due to extremely limited parking we ask that you please carpool if two representatives will be attending.  If you have any questions or would like more information please contact Darma Paden at (909) 274-5651 or by email dpaden@mtsac.edu

Thank you for your anticipated support and participation.

Residential Burglary Suspect Arrested

Staff Reports 

CHINO – After an intensive investigation Chino Police Department Detectives identified and arrested a man in connection to an ongoing residential burglary where the victims had over $50,000 in valuables stolen from their home.

 

The incident occurred on July 11, 2018, at a residence in the 14700 block of Willamette Avenue in Chino. The suspect’s image was captured on video and was then shared on the Chino PD Facebook page. That post resulted in a citizen calling in with a tip. Detectives were able to follow up on the investigative lead and identify the suspect as Octavius Jamal Woodard – age 43 of Pomona.

 

After some very thorough investigating methods Detectives were able to locate and arrest Woodard in the city of Long Beach. They brought him back to the Inland Empire and booked him into the West Valley Detention Center on burglary charges.

 

During the course of the investigation, it was discovered that several pieces of the victim’s property had been sold to a pawn shop by Woodard. The merchandise has since been recovered from the shop.

 

The investigation is still ongoing.

 

Man Found Dead on Brea Canyon Road

By Anthony Saude

Diamond Bar – The body of a 24-year-old Rowland Heights man, Javier Jose Velasquez Grimaldo, was found at approximately 4:30 a.m. Monday morning, August 27 on Brea Canyon Road near the southbound Orange (57) Freeway in Diamond Bar. The CHP reported that the man had sustained serious head injuries.

The California Highway Patrol’s investigation into the accident concluded that he had been involved in a rollover crash.  Grimaldo then tried to gain entry to an occupied Freightliner big rig truck but the truck driver didn’t let him in and drove off but said he heard banging on the truck according to CHP reports.

The CHP’s initial investigation stated that Javier Jose Velasquez Grimaldo was driving his 2004 Mazda 3 on the southbound 57 Freeway at about 4 a.m The Mazda veered left, for unknown reasons,  just south of Brea Canyon Road, then hit the center divider and flipped over several times before finally coming to a rest on the right shoulder.

California Highway Patrol Officer Rodrigo Jimenez told reporters that Grimaldo took off running down Brea Canyon Road. Other reports say that Grimaldo also tried to force his way onto the Freightliner truck that was parked with the engine running.

Whether the man’s death was related to the crash or discovered as a result of it was part of the investigation is still unknown according to CHP reports.

Both northbound and southbound lanes of the 57 freeway were closed temporarily, and Brea Canyon Road to Tonner Canyon was shut down south of Diamond Bar Boulevard Monday morning during the investigation.

All lanes had been reopened before 8 a.m.

 

Being Okay With Letting Go

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

By Nancy Stoops

We hang on to our stuff so very tightly.  It seems as if our stuff actually becomes part of who we are.  I think it becomes the part of us that we don’t like very much, yet we have such a deep rooted sense of fear about letting go of all of it.  It’s almost as if we fear getting healthy, because our disfuction has truly ruled our lives for so very many years.  I think we actually fear living without all of it.

I understand what you are feeling and are so very afraid of, but I also know it’s what is getting in your way everyday of your life.  It gets in the way of what can turn an unhealthy relationship, into a healthy one.  It gets in the way of getting what you want for yourself from this dream, we call life.  It gets in the way of everything we seem to come in contact with.  It’s as if we are going though our lives numb, with a dark cloud hanging over our heads, always threatening to rain on us once more, for what seems like the thousandth time.  It feels like we’re in this never ending battle and there is no such thing as winning in sight.

I think as we get healthier, the people we are closest to, want to get healthier as well.  I hope you see that learning to let go of your stuff, as scary as it may be, is a win win situation for everybody in your life, as well as for yourself.  Decide, this will be the year you finally let go and stop living in the past, so you can enjoy today and all the days to come!!!!!!!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to page her at (626) 9353818.  You may e-mail Nancy at stoopsshecter@earthlink.net.  You may purchase Nancy’s latest book Live, Heal and Grow at Amazon.com.

A Cup of Coffee

By Mark Hopper

There are a lot of coffee places in Diamond Bar. We have at least two Starbucks; the It’s A Grind and The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf.  Plus McDonalds has the McCafe.  I’m sure that the possibilities are endless.

 

My wife likes me to bring home a cup of coffee for her from one of these local shops. It is called Julie’s Cafe. It is near our home and located in the Walmart – Crunch Fitness shopping center at Diamond Bar Blvd and Grand Avenue.

 

Since I don’t drink coffee, I can’t compare the tastes and flavors offered at Julies with other coffee shops in town.  But I know that my wife prefers the Hazelnut coffee with two packets of sweetener and a lot of cream.  I have memorized the formula.

 

I think that one of the things that make Julie’s so popular is the hospitality. The setting is peaceful and comfortable. I have seen Julie (the owner) personally trimming the potted plants on the patio and tending to the flowers that enhance the atmosphere.

 

They serve a variety of breakfast items and they have a large lunch menu. They prepare each item with great care on site. They are not open for dinner and are closed on Sunday and Monday. Julie’s Cafe is often filled with people of all ages enjoying good coffee and great food.   Guests enjoy the pleasant atmosphere and warm hospitality.

 

There are a number of verses in the Bible that emphasize the importance of hospitality.  You can examine a few for yourself like Romans 12:13, First Timothy 3:1, Hebrews 13:2 and First Peter 3:9. All of them highlight the importance of welcoming others into your home, church, business or office and treating them as your guests.

 

I wonder how you are doing in this area of your life.  Do people feel welcome and comfortable in your home or business?  Do you greet them with a warm welcome and friendly smile?  Do you make an effort to learn their name and how you can help them?

 

I think we could use more emphasis on hospitality in our culture today. Let me encourage you to do more to exercise hospitality to your clients, friends and strangers, too. You will be glad you did and they will too!

 

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

 

Area Crime Recap: August 2018

INCIDENT: VEHICLE THEFT INVESTIGATION AND ARREST

WHEN: 8/7/18

WHERE: Hamner Ave. and Hidden Valley Pkwy., Norco

DETAILS: On Tuesday, August 7, 2018, about 2:15 p.m., a deputy assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office was conducting routine patrol in the area of Hamner Avenue and Hidden Valley Parkway, in the City of Norco. During that time, the deputy located an occupied stolen vehicle travelling on Hidden Valley, near the intersection of Hamner Avenue. The deputy initiated an enforcement stop on the stolen vehicle, which drove into a nearby business parking lot and came to a stop. The suspect was detained without incident. The suspect was identified as Michael Morris, age 31, a Riverside resident. During the subsequent investigation, it was determined the vehicle had been stolen out of the City of Riverside earlier in the morning. Morris was arrested and booked at the Robert Presley Detention Center in the City of Riverside for vehicle theft and possession of stolen property. Anyone with information pertaining to this investigation is encouraged to contact Deputy Lycopolus of the Norco Sheriff’s Office, at (951) 270-5673.

 

INCIDENT: BOMB THREAT

WHEN: 8/13/18

WHERE: ERHS Campus, 7400 block of Scholar Way, Eastvale

DETAILS: On August 13, 2018, about 12:43 P.M, a caller reported they had planted an explosive device on the Eleanor Roosevelt High School campus.  Although the call appeared to be a hoax, out of abundance of caution, the school was placed on lockdown and several deputies as well as bomb sniffing dogs from the Riverside Sheriff’s and Corona Police Department responded to ensure the safety of everyone on campus.  After a thorough search of the campus, no devices were found and the lockdown was lifted at 3:05 P.M. This case was a collaborative effort by Corona Police Department, Corona-Norco Unified School District and the Riverside Sheriff’s Department, and a sincere thank you goes out to all involved. The Riverside Sheriff’s Department makes safety a priority and would like to remind people if they see or hear something, say something. This is an ongoing investigation and we are asking anyone with information regarding this case to call Deputy Myers at (951) 955-2600.

INCIDENT: ROBBERY INVESTIGATION AND ARREST

WHEN: 8/15/18

WHERE: 2600 block of Hamer Ave., Norco

DETAILS: On Wednesday, August 15, 2018, about 12:57 p.m., deputies from the Norco Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a business located in the 2600 block of Hamner Avenue, in the city of Norco, in reference to a reported theft that had just occurred. As deputies were responding, additional information was received that the suspect had fled the business and was attempting to allude capture in a nearby residential neighborhood. With the assistance of the Riverside County Sheriff’s Aviation Unit, deputies quickly set up a perimeter in the area where the suspect had last been seen. After several minutes, the suspect surrendered to deputies and was taken into custody without incident. The subsequent investigation revealed the suspect had entered the business and had committed a robbery. No one at the business was injured. The suspect was identified as Milaad Hassim Perine-Black, age 24, a Los Angeles resident. Perine-Black was later arrested and booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center in the city of Riverside, for robbery charges. Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact Deputy Postoian of the Norco Sheriff’s Office, at (951) 270-5673.

INCIDENT: SUSPICIOUS SUBJECT

WHEN: 8/24/18

WHERE: 7300 block of Sumner Ave., Eastvale

DETAILS: On August 23, 2018, about 3:30 P.M., it was reported a student was walking home from school in the area of Sumner Avenue and Pheasant Knoll Road, in the City of Eastvale. The student observed a white male adult walking towards him, who subsequently sat on the ground in some bushes concealing himself from view. As the student walked past the subject, the subject lunged towards the student and grabbed his ankle. The student broke free and immediately ran away. The subject chased the student for a short period of time. The student lost sight of the subject moments thereafter. Deputies conducted an extensive search of the area and were unable to locate the subject. The subject was described as a 50-60-year-old male with a grey beard. He was wearing a red hat, unknown type jacket with gold/tan vertical stripes on the sleeves, and light blue pants (dirty and ripped). He did not have a weapon. The Eastvale Police Department is dedicated to maintaining a high quality of life and encourages citizens to report any suspicious activity they observe. Parents are also encouraged to remind their children to always be aware of their surroundings and to walk in pairs when possible. The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information about this incident is encouraged to contact the Investigations Bureau at the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station at (951) 955-2600.

INCIDENT: SEARCH WARRANT- ILLEGAL GAMBLING OPERATION

WHEN: 8/24/18

WHERE: 5000 block of Mission Blvd., Jurupa Valley

DETAILS: Over the past few months, citizens and business owners on Mission Boulevard in the City of Jurupa Valley have reported a business was operating as an illegal gambling enterprise.  Several calls for service at this business resulted in arrests for weapons, felony warrants and drug related charges. On August 24, 2018, around 1:00 PM, members of the Jurupa Valley Station’s Special Enforcement Team and the California Department of Justice served a search warrant in the 5000 block of Mission Boulevard for the business operating as an illegal gambling café.  Several patrons of the business as well as the person operating the business were detained during the investigation.  During the investigation, evidence was located that supported the claims by business owners the business was operating as a gambling establishment.  The following subjects were arrested at the location:

  1. George Edward Ayala, 25-year-old resident of Jurupa Valley.
    • 148 (a)(1) PC – Delaying / Obstructing Peace Officer
    • 11364 HS – Possession of Paraphernlia – JV182360117
    • PRCS violation
  2. Eddie Green, 33-year-old resident of Jurupa Valley.
    • Felony warrant – JV182360102
  3. Tijuana Lenoir, 55-year-old resident of Jurupa Valley
    • 330a(a) PC – Illegal Gambling
    • 1 HS – Possession of Paraphernalia
  4. Julio Alberto Nevariz, 41-year-old Jurupa Valley resident.
    • 330a(a) PC – Operating Illegal Gambling Business
    • 11377 (a) HS – Possession of Methamphetamine
  5. Julio Alberto Nevariz Jr., 18-year-old Jurupa Valley resident.
    • 330a(a) PC – Illegal Gambling

This investigation is on-going.  Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact Deputy Gilbert at the Jurupa Valley Station, 951-955-2600.

INCIDENT: FATAL HIT AND RUN TRAFFIC COLLISION

WHEN: 8/25/18

WHERE: Mission Blvd. cross of Jurupa Rd., Jurupa Valley

DETAILS: On Saturday, August 25, 2018, at 4:48 AM, officers assigned to the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to the area of Mission Boulevard cross of Jurupa Road, in the city of Jurupa Valley, regarding a deceased pedestrian in the roadway. The adult female pedestrian displayed obvious signs of trauma related to being struck by a vehicle. The Jurupa Valley Traffic Team responded to the scene and assumed the investigation. The preliminary investigation determined the pedestrian was struck in the roadway of the eastbound lanes of Mission Boulevard. The driver of the vehicle fled from the scene prior to the pedestrian being discovered by the reporting party. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to call Deputy Krusbe at the Jurupa Valley Station, 951-955-2600.  Persons who wish to report criminal activity and wish to remain anonymous can call crime stoppers at 800-78-CRIME (800-782-7463) or 800-47-DRUGS (800-473-7847).  You can also leave anonymous information at www.riversidesheriff.org/tipline or www.wetip.com.

INCIDENT: DRIVER LICENSE/ DUI CHECKPOINT

WHEN: 8/25/18

WHERE: City of Norco

DETAILS: On August 25, 2018, the Norco Sheriff’s Office conducted a Driver License/DUI Checkpoint on Hamner Avenue near Commerce Street between the hours of 8:00 pm and 3:00 am resulting in the following:

615 Vehicles Screened

  • 3 DUI-Alcohol suspects arrested
  • 2 Arrested on other Criminal Charges
  • 14 Drivers cited/arrested for operating a vehicle unlicensed or while suspended/revoked
  • 16 Citations issued

Checkpoints are placed at locations that have the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driving deterrence and provide the greatest safety for officers and the public.

In recent years, California has seen a disturbing increase in drug-impaired driving crashes. The Norco Sheriff’s Office supports the new effort from the Office of Traffic Safety that aims to educate all drivers that “DUI Doesn’t Just Mean Booze.”  If you take prescription drugs, particularly those with a driving or operating machinery warning on the label, you might be impaired enough to get a DUI.  Marijuana can also be impairing, especially in combination with alcohol or other drugs, and can result in a DUI. Studies of California drivers have shown that 30 percent of drivers in fatal crashes had one or more drugs in their systems. A study of active drivers showed more tested positive for drugs that may impair driving (14 percent) than did for alcohol (7.3 percent).  Of the drugs, marijuana was most prevalent, at 7.4 percent, slightly more than alcohol. The Norco Sheriff’s Office offers these reminders to ensure a fun night doesn’t get spoiled with a DUI:

  • Decide before you go out whether you plan to drink or drive. You can’t do both.
  • If you plan to drink, designate a sober driver before going out, or map out another way to get home safely by taking a cab, ride-share service like Uber or Lyft, or using public transportation. You can also look up designated driver services in your area using the National Directory of Designated Driver Services (NDDDS).
  • If you are DD, bars and restaurants statewide have created non-alcoholic specialty drinks (“DDrinks”) for sober drivers: http://bit.ly/OTSDDrinks
  • If you happen to see a drunk driver on the road, call 911. Offer a description of the vehicle, location and direction of travel
  • See your friend or other patron impaired trying to get behind the wheel? Take the keys or help them make other arrangements to get where they are going safely.

Drivers caught driving impaired and charged with DUI can expect the impact of a DUI arrest to be approximately $13,500. This includes fines, fees, DUI classes, license suspension and other expenses not to mention possible jail time. The Norco Sheriff’s Office will be conducting another DUI/Driver License Checkpoint or DUI Saturation Patrol in the near future in our ongoing commitment to take suspected impaired drivers off our streets and highways, ultimately lowering the risk for deaths and injuries. The checkpoint was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Whether by bike, car, motorcycle or walking, the Norco Sheriff’s Office encourages everyone to be a part of the solution and “Go Safely California.”The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department is seeking applicants for Deputy Sheriff, Deputy Sheriff Trainee, Correctional Deputy, Sheriff’s 911 Communications Officer, and other employment opportunities such as clerical and support positions.  If you are interested in a career with us, please apply at www.joinrsd.orgor call 1-888-Join-RSD.

INCIDENT: SEARCH WARRANT/ RECOVERED STOLEN TRACTOR AND DOG

WHEN: 8/24/18

WHERE: 8400 block of 58th St., Jurupa Valley

DETAILS: Jurupa Valley deputies completed their investigation last night (08/29/2018) and arrested 48-year-old Jurupa Valley resident, Jose Arias.  Arias was booked into Robert Presley Detention Center for the tractor’s theft and possession of stolen property.   On Friday, August 24, 2018, Jurupa Valley Deputies tracked a stolen John Deere tractor, valued at $80,000, to a parcel of undeveloped land on the 8400 block of 58th Street, in the City of Jurupa Valley.  Atkinson Construction Company owns the tractor and it was reported stolen sometime Thursday night, August 23, from a construction site.  Deputies investigated the theft that led them to the location where they authored a search warrant for the property. Deputies recovered the tractor on the property along with a missing family pet, a Great Dane, named “Sadie.”  Riverside County Animal Control confirmed Sadie had been away from her rightful Jurupa Valley family by scanning her microchip.  Sadie’s family stated they suspected someone stole her from their yard approximately two years ago and they have been looking for her ever since. Sadie’s owners mentioned that it is their daughter’s 5th birthday and she is excited to have her best friend back!  Animal Control took custody of Sadie and she was reunited with her family in time for their daughter’s 5th birthday (click on the attached link below to view the family reunion with Sadie). Atkinson Construction Company was thrilled to have their equipment back!

DETAILS: ARMED ROBBERY ARRESTS

WHEN: 8/30/18

WHERE; 9700 block of Jurupa Rd and 8900 block of Limonite Ave., Jurupa Valley

DETAILS: On Friday, August 24, 2018, at approximately 3:30 pm, officers from the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to a report of an armed robbery that occurred at a business located in the 9700 block of Jurupa Road. One male adult entered the business while in possession of a firearm, brandished the weapon at an employee, and takes an undisclosed amount of money. During the incident a physical altercation between the suspect and employee occurred. During the altercation another suspect (male adult) entered the business to aid the armed suspect when he fired the gun outside of the business. No one was struck by the round and the employee suffered minor injuries from the altercation.

Investigators form the Jurupa Valley Station responded and assumed the investigation. On Wednesday, August 29, 2018, at approximately 8:30 pm, officers from the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to another armed robbery that occurred at a business located in the 8900 block of Limonite Avenue. Two suspects entered the business, one suspect brandished a firearm at an employee and take an undisclosed amount of US currency. During the investigation officers located a possible suspect vehicle in the area of Valley Way and Mission Boulevard. Investigators from the Jurupa Valley Station responded and assumed the investigation. The investigation into both armed robberies led to the arrest of four suspects who were all booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center for robbery and additional charges. This is an active investigation and anyone with information regarding these incidents are encouraged to contact Investigator Ruben Martinez at the Jurupa Valley Station, 951-955-2600

  1. Alexis Uspana, 19-year-old Riverside resident.
  2. Alexander Horn, 21-year-old Jurupa Valley resident.
  3. Juan Marron, 27-year-old Jurupa Valley resident.
  4. Christina Gutierrez, 18-year-old Fontana resident

 

 

 

 

 

 

History 101

September 1894: Labor Day Becomes a Federal Holiday

By History.com

 

Labor Day pays tribute to the contributions and achievements of American workers, and Labor Day 2018 occurs on Monday, September 3 (it’s traditionally observed on the first Monday in September). It was created by the labor movement in the late 19th century and became a federal holiday in 1894. Labor Day also symbolizes the end of summer for many Americans, and is celebrated with parties, parades and athletic events.

Labor Day, an annual celebration of workers and their achievements, originated during one of American labor history’s most dismal chapters.

In the late 1800s, at the height of the Industrial Revolution in the United States, the average American worked 12-hour days and seven-day weeks in order to eke out a basic living. Despite restrictions in some states, children as young as 5 or 6 toiled in mills, factories and mines across the country, earning a fraction of their adult counterparts’ wages.

People of all ages, particularly the very poor and recent immigrants, often faced extremely unsafe working conditions, with insufficient access to fresh air, sanitary facilities and breaks.

As manufacturing increasingly supplanted agriculture as the wellspring of American employment, labor unions, which had first appeared in the late 18th century, grew more prominent and vocal. They began organizing strikes and rallies to protest poor conditions and compel employers to renegotiate hours and pay.

Many of these events turned violent during this period, including the infamous Haymarket Riot of 1886, in which several Chicago policemen and workers were killed. Others gave rise to longstanding traditions: On September 5, 1882, 10,000 workers took unpaid time off to march from City Hall to Union Square in New York City, holding the first Labor Day parade in U.S. history.

The idea of a “workingmen’s holiday,” celebrated on the first Monday in September, caught on in other industrial centers across the country, and many states passed legislation recognizing it.Congress would not legalize the holiday until 12 years later, when a watershed moment in American labor history brought workers’ rights squarely into the public’s view. On May 11, 1894, employees of the Pullman Palace Car Company in Chicago went on strike to protest wage cuts and the firing of union representatives.

On June 26, the American Railroad Union, led by Eugene V. Debs, called for a boycott of all Pullman railway cars, crippling railroad traffic nationwide. To break the strike, the federal government dispatched troops to Chicago, unleashing a wave of riots that resulted in the deaths of more than a dozen workers.

In the wake of this massive unrest and in an attempt to repair ties with American workers, Congress passed an act making Labor Day a legal holiday in the District of Columbia and the territories. More than a century later, the true founder of Labor Day has yet to be identified.

Many credit Peter J. McGuire, cofounder of the American Federation of Labor, while others have suggested that Matthew Maguire, a secretary of the Central Labor Union, first proposed the holiday.

Labor Day is still celebrated in cities and towns across the United States with parades, picnics, barbecues, fireworks displays and other public gatherings. For many Americans, particularly children and young adults, it represents the end of the summer and the start of the back-to-school season.

 

Growing Gardens

By Rob Norris

Let us not lose heart in doing good, for in due time we will reap if we do not grow weary.
Galatians 6:9

I like the way a garden looks when it’s clean and neat, when all the soil is evened out and the weeds are pulled up. But I know too well that the hard work of a Saturday morning will be repeated again and again, all season long. It never takes more than a week or two of neglect before weeds are sprouting all over the place.

Parenting is a lot like that. Just when you think you’ve finally mastered one area, you wake up the next day and a whole new issue is facing you. It’s so easy to forget that parenting is a process. A long, long process.

You go to bed at night sometimes relishing those little victories, thinking all is secure and right with the world. But it’s not very long before something else crops up.
Remember that building character is the most important goal in parenting. Imprinting a child’s heart with the image of God takes time and repeated effort, often reworking the same ground repeatedly to keep bad behaviors from becoming habits.

So I encourage you today not to give up. Don’t lose heart. The Bible promises great rewards to those who faithfully persevere through the long days, the long battles that often don’t even stop for bedtime. I assure you, all that weeding will pay off.

Meeting @ 10:00 at River Heights Intermediate School 7227 Scholar Way, Eastvale CA.

Trusting and believing with you,

 

 

A Great Start!

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
2018-2019 Classes begin in Walnut Valley

By Kelli Gile 

Walnut — Summer break is over and students will soon be getting into the rhythm and routine of the new school year.

Teachers and staff members on 15 campuses welcomed nearly 14,400 students in the Walnut Valley Unified School District on Monday morning.

By 7:30 a.m., Vejar Elementary Principal Whitney Prenger was out front offering high fives and hugs as families began arriving.

The energetic school leader also brought something special to kick off the new school year – a bubble-blowing machine.

The children toting new backpacks and lunchboxes were happily surprised as they walked through the stream of iridescent soap bubbles at the front gate.

“I wanted the children to have a memory from their first day at Vejar that would last a lifetime!” Prenger said.

During the opening lesson, transitional kindergarten teacher Irene Carter admitted to her new young charges that she was a little nervous.

“There are lots of parents here in our class and I had to get up early and leave my dog, Phillip!”

“And I don’t like leaving Phillip,” she shared.

“So, I’m happy, excited, and a little nervous.”

Next, the clever educator encouraged the youngsters to raise their arms like a sliding snake if they were a little scared or nervous too.

Several little arms cautiously went up in the air.

Then she invited the children to raise their arms like a wiggly worm if they were exited to begin school.

More arms went up.

And finally, she asked the kids to wave their hands to signal they were happy.

All of the hands eagerly shot up in the air!

“Monday went well, Tuesday was OK, and Wednesday was super with barely any tears!” Carter happily reported later in the week.

Over 45 new educators were hired for the new school year, including Chaparral Middle School 7th grade math teacher Macy McGuire.

“I’m excited to meet the kids and get the ball rolling!” she said.

“I already have my first month planned out – every homework assignment and every activity,” McGuire added.

“The fish tank is set up and we’ll name our beta as a class!”

“I think it’s going to be a great school year!”

Over the summer, the Board of Trustees appointed new principals Jennifer Alcazar at Castle Rock Elementary and Sandra Lee at Westhoff Elementary.

“I am thrilled to have served in Walnut Valley as a teacher, administrator, and parent,” Alcazar said.

“It is truly an honor to be given the opportunity to return to Castle Rock where my children experienced so much love and growth!” said Alcazar.

“We are so excited to welcome our students back to their second home,” said Lee, a District newcomer who brings over a dozen years of educational experience to her new post.

“It’s going to be a fun school year filled with amazing memories!” she added.

Westhoff Elementary kindergarten teacher Roxanne Dennen is beginning her 25th year in Walnut Valley.

After a morning snack and water break on August 13, students took their places on magic carpet squares to join their teacher in the classic “The Wheels on the Bus” song.

“My 25th first day of school was as exciting as my very first day,” Dennen said.

“I do what I love because I love what I do!”

Over 2,700 Diamond Bar High students gathered in the gymnasium during two opening-day assemblies featuring pep and band performances.

Principal Reuben Jones encouraged the teens to set goals for themselves this school year.

“We want everyone to achieve, create opportunities for learning, and respect yourselves and each other,” he said.

Walnut High Principal Brandon Dade visited every classroom to welcome the Mustang-powered teachers and staff members.

“I’m going to do this every week throughout the year!” he said.

At Suzanne Middle School, students dashed to classes during passing periods with schedules in hand.

“I’ve been all over the school this morning!” said 6th grader Melody Yu.

“I’m excited to see my friends and meet my teachers,” shared Chloe Siu.

Suzanne Language Arts teacher Alice Chen utilized Google Classroom to connect with students a week before school began.

She was able to post a welcome message along with course information for her 120 students.

When Chen saw that some students responded with personal messages, she was absolutely thrilled.

“Digital tools gave me the ability to get to know my students before I met them face-to-face,” the tech-savvy educator said.

“I love that my students were just as excited as I was for the start of the new school year!”

Language Arts teacher Lauri Ujita begins each year with three simple rules she asks her 6th grade students to live by: Work Hard. Stay Humble. Be Kind.

“These are the rules I try to live by too!” she shared.

Fifth-grade students in Kari Penzes’ class at Westhoff Elementary were eager to log onto new laptop computers on Tuesday.

“These one-to-one Chromebooks benefit students by providing immediate access to the most current technology and keeping pace with the 21st century world,” the teaching team commented.

The children were lined up outside Janine De Vera’s 4th grade class before the first bell rang at Vejar Elementary.

“The beginning of the year is such an exciting time – everyone gets a fresh start!” De Vera shared after greeting each youngster..

“I’m looking forward to California day, track, and recess!” beamed nine-year-old Taryn Schilz.

“I’m excited to go to class and see the panda decorations,” added classmate Eleanor Reyes after peeking through the window.

Quail Summit elementary learning specialist Leann Legind used social media to communicate with educator friends the night before school began.

“Tomorrow get ready to change the world – one sweet student at a time!” she offered.

 

Here We Grow Again

By Anthony Saude

Eastvale – Since it first became a city in October of 2010, Eastvale has grown immensely. An area that was once mainly known for dairy farms is now buzzing with shopping centers, beautiful parks, and great schools. The growth our city has experienced is not letting up any time soon either! Here are some of the new businesses, developments, and projects that are taking place or coming to Eastvale soon.

Burgerim one of the fastest growing franchises in the country is now open. Caremore Pharmacy, Poke Delight, LED One Distribution Inc, The Pizza Press and Ten Ren’s Tea Time are now open as well. The big win for Eastvale was getting the Costco open for business.

We have a lot of new businesses are coming very soon as well. Some of those are Creamistry, Davita Medical, El Pollo Loco, Fatburger, In-N-Out Burger, Les Schwab Tire Center, Mes Amies Spa, Miguel’s Jr., Pieology, Pita Street and W. Café. With this kind of growth come multiple employment opportunities.

Companies that are hiring right now are Smithfiled Foods, to apply visit their website at:smithfieldfoods.com/careers. Burgerim has employment opportunities available to apply visit their website at: burgerim.com/careers or if burgers are your thing Farburger is also hiring you can apply at fatburger.com/joinourteam.

Platimum Collision Center is also looking to hire quality employees for more information send an email to ralina@platimumccs.com

The Pizza Press is another establishment that is hiring right now, to apply visit:thepizzapress.com/franchise-careers

Each new business and development adds to our city’s community in a big way and we are not going to stop growing any time soon!

 

Housing Prices Declining?

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

I reported last week that the Diamond Bar Condominium and Townhome market saw an increase of almost 11% year over year (2nd quarter 2018 as compared to 2nd quarter 2017) in its Median Sales Price (MSP). What happened to the price of detached homes in Diamond Bar for the same period? According to the California Regional Multiple Listing Service (CRMLS) the Diamond Bar Single Family Detached Home (SFDH) market also saw an increase in the Median Sales Price.  The 2nd Quarter 2018 saw the MSP number for this segment of the housing market go up to $750,000 for all of Diamond Bar, as compared to $720,000 for the same period in 2017. The $30,000.00 increase in one year translated into an annualized rate of increase of 4.2%. It did not increase at the same rate as Condo/Townhome MSP.  The 4.2% increase was approximately 40% of the rate of increase in MSP for the Condo/Townhouse segment of the market.

The number of sales of Single Family Detached Homes also saw a decrease of approximately 20%, going down to 101 from 125 for the same period of time the previous year. The Condo/Townhouse sales transaction numbers went up almost 21%, with 64 closed sales in the 2nd quarter 2018 versus 53 for the same period in 2017.

It is evident from the statistics as reported by the MLS, the home prices overall continue to climb here in Diamond Bar, although the rate of increase is slowing down, and the housing sales numbers have definitely seen a slowdown.  Before prices can start to decline, they must first plateau, and before they plateau or flatten out, they must first start to slow down in their rate of increase.  We are at that stage in the housing cycle now.

This article was written by Nef Cortez who is a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca DRE lic # 00560181, licensed since 1976. He can be reached for more information via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com, or website www.nefcortez.com. Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.

We Grow Flowers Not People

Melody Kramer – Autism Mom

School has started, and the homework has started to come home. For my eight-year-old autistic son, he had a paper to fill out titled “about me.”

I tried asking him these questions that were on this paper, but he didn’t quite understand. Usually, I have to do a lot of prompting.   One of the questions was, “what are some of my favorite things?”  He doesn’t grasp the word favorite, so I asked, do you like pizza? He replied yes. And it went from there.

Another question was, “What do you want to be when you grow up?” He answered, “A flower.”  I was surprised he said a flower. So I asked again.  The same answer. I asked are you sure that you don’t want to be a teacher or maybe a police officer when you grow up? He still wanted to be a flower.

It was a cute answer, and funny. I said if you want to be a flower, you can be a flower. Then I started thinking. The question I asked, when you “grow” up what do you want to be.  The way his mind may think it was the most logical answer. A flower grows.  So when I asked if he wanted to be a teacher or police officer and he gave me that strange look I got an understanding of how he was thinking. You don’t grow a teacher you grow a flower.

We are so used to our way of thinking, speaking and understanding a simple phrase, such as “what do you want to be when you grow up.” His autistic mind is so analytical and logical it just doesn’t make sense to him, we don’t grow people.

Now if I ask what do want to be for Halloween? Spiderman is the answer.

I guess we will leave that answer blank for now.  Just a thought, raising children is like growing a flower. We take care of them, feed them, protect them, we do everything to help them bloom.  He may not realize it now, but he’s already a flower in the garden of life.

 

Walnut Man Faces Federal Conspiracy Charges

Photo Courtesy: uomustansiriyah.edu.iq
A Walnut man pleaded guilty to providing tactical gear to Syrian rebels, including night vision scopes, boresighters & bulletproof vests.

Staff Reports

WALNUT — A Walnut man plead guilty Tuesday to conspiring to export U.S.-origin tactical gear to Syria. Rasheed Al Jijakli, 57, a Syrian-born naturalized U.S. citizen of Walnut, plead guilty Monday before United States District Judge James V. Selna, a Department of Justice spokesperson said. According to the Justice Department that is in direct violation of U.S. sanctions against Syria,.

“In a plea agreement filed in this case, Jijakli admitted that, from April 2012 through March 2013, he conspired with other individuals to export tactical gear, including U.S.-origin laser boresighters, day- and night-vision rifle scopes, and other items from the United States to Syria,” they said.

In July of 2012, Jijakli and another co-conspirator purchased and traveled with the tactical gear from Los Angeles to Istanbul, Turkey with the intent that it would be provided to Syrian rebels training in Turkey and fighting in Syria, the DOJ reported.

Jijakli provided some of the equipment, specifically the laser boresighters, to a second co-conspirator, a member of Ahrar Al-Sham. Jijakli also provided the goods to other armed Syrian insurgent groups in Syria and Turkey, they said.

Jijakli and his co-conspirators provided at least 43 laser boresighters, 85 day rifle scopes, 30 night-vision rifle scopes, tactical flashlights, a digital monocular, five radios, and a bulletproof vest to Ahrar Al-Sham and other Syrian rebels in Syria, with the knowledge that the tactical gear was earmarked for shipment to Syria.

Subscribe

Thousands of dollars were withdrawn from Palmyra Corporation, a check-cashing services company where Jijakli was the chief executive officer. He used to pay for the tactical gear that got sent to Syrian rebels.

Judge Selna is scheduled to sentence Jijakli on December 4, he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in a federal prison.

 

Eastvale Partners In “Go Human” Campaign

Staff Reports

EASTVALE – The City of Eastvale continues to put the improvement of the community and it’s residents at the top of the priority list. Eastvale is proud announce that they will be a part of the Go Human campaign with The Southern California Association of Government (SCAG). Go Human is a community outreach and advertising program with goals of reducing traffic collisions in Southern California. One of the solutions is encouraging people to walk and bicycle more in their daily lives. The hope is to create a safer and healthier city; always striving to enhance the quality of life in our neighborhoods. “The safety of people who walk and bicycle is a priority to the City of Eastvale, Mayor Clint Lorimore said. “We are always looking for ways to engage the community on this important issue and are proud to partner with SCAG in this campaign.”

The Go Human advertising campaign is collaboration between the Southern California Association of Governments and the health departments and transportation commissions from the counties of Imperial, Los Angeles, Orange, Riverside, San Bernardino and Ventura. Go Human is funded by a $2.3 million grant from the 2014 California Active Transportation Program. The Go Human campaign consists of an advertising campaign to promote transportation safety, the development of resources and toolkits for cities and organizations and the support of events across the region that encourage and enhance walking and biking. About the Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is the nation’s largest metropolitan planning organization, representing six counties, 191 cities and more than 18 million residents. SCAG undertakes a variety of planning and policy initiatives to plan for a livable and sustainable Southern California now and in the future. For more information about SCAG’s regional efforts, please visit http://www.scag.ca.gov.

 

How to Recognize and Avoid College Scholarship Scams

By StatePoint

Average college costs have doubled in the last two decades, and this financial pressure along with new technologies makes today’s students particularly vulnerable to financial aid and scholarship scams.

“Scammers know to take advantage of those who are stressed,” says Robert C. Ballard, president and CEO of Scholarship America, the nation’s largest nonprofit scholarship and education support organization. “Fortunately, there are some ways you can avoid getting duped.”

To help you spot scams, Scholarship America offers the following insights.

Fees and Other Red Flags

Scholarship programs charging a fee to apply often look legitimate. But look at the bigger picture: if the provider is awarding $500 in scholarships and collecting fees from thousands of applicants, it’s not funding education so much as making money. Your chances of earning a scholarship are slight if not impossible — sham providers often collect fees and disappear.

Some providers claim to have a no-strings-attached grant or an incredibly low-interest loan to offer, as long as you pay a tax or “redemption” fee in advance. Others offer to match you with guaranteed scholarships — if you pay for a premium search service. Keep in mind, there’s no such thing as a “guaranteed scholarship.”

Free, comprehensive scholarship searching and matching services like Fastweb and Cappex will connect you to legitimate, competitive scholarships that don’t charge application fees.

Too Good to Be True

Be wary of the “too-good-to-be-true” scam model: an official-sounding organization tells you about an incredible opportunity, offers you a coveted spot at a scholarship seminar, or just sends you a check with a note of congratulations, using messaging designed to get your adrenaline pumping and make you act fast.

Remember, scholarship providers aren’t in the practice of sending funds out randomly; it’s likely the check will bounce, or you’ll be asked to send money back for “processing” or an “accidental” overpayment. Your safest bet? Tearing up the check and, if you have time, filing a complaint with the Federal Trade Commission.

Often unexpected “opportunities” are attempts to get you to divulge personal information. Even clicking on links can expose your data to scammers.

Be cautious: Google the name of the scholarship or organization. Scams have often been flagged by the FTC or Better Business Bureau.

Social Scammers

A new scam making the rounds starts with a random friend request on Facebook, Instagram or Snapchat. Accept, and your new friend will start messaging you about a foolproof way to make money for college: they work for a scholarship provider and have found a loophole. They just need to enter you as a winner and you can split the money.

If this was real, it’d be incredibly unethical. However, in the midst of stress, you may be tempted — and that could cost more than money. While you may be asked to send cash as an advance, most such scammers are phishing. Give them enough info, and you’ll be worrying about getting your identity back.

For more scholarship tools, resources and opportunities, including the annual Scholarship America Dream Award, please visit scholarshipamerica.org.

“Scholarship scams seem to work just enough for people to keep trying it,” says Ballard. “However, two main rules will help you avoid them: never pay to apply and if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.”

National Preparedness Month: Keep Your Family Safe in an Emergency

By StatePoint

September is National Preparedness Month, and with wildfires, floods, earthquakes, tornadoes and hurricanes occurring around the world, having access to safe drinking water in the event of an emergency should be top of mind no matter where you live.

Natural disasters can contaminate and disrupt water supplies, making it difficult to access safe drinking water at home. Emergencies also force families out of their homes, making it necessary to hydrate from natural water resources where harmful contaminants like bacteria, chemicals, microplastics and heavy metals may be present.

“The everyday public health concern of water contamination is elevated during emergencies, when water can be unreliable for drinking,” says Alison Hill, managing director of LifeStraw, a manufacturer of water filtration systems that is often involved in disaster relief both in the U.S, and around the globe.

“If an emergency has your family on the move, being able to hydrate safely from any fresh water source — fountains, streams, rivers and ponds is key,” points out Hill.

When building your emergency supply kit, be sure to include a portable filter to help eliminate harmful contaminants from your drinking source.

LifeStraw makes it easy to hydrate safely at home and outdoors. LifeStraw Go is a refillable bottle that incorporates a two-stage filter removing bacteria, chemicals, microplastics and bad taste from drinking water. Another good option for personal use is LifeStraw Flex, a multi-use filter that removes heavy metals including lead as well as bacteria and parasites. Finally, those traveling in groups may find it more efficient to use a filter specifically designed for a crowd, such as the brand’s Mission model, a high-volume gravity-powered purifier that also filters viruses, available in a 12-liter compact roll bag.

Being prepared for any situation will help keep your family safe and healthy, for whatever comes your way. This National Preparedness Month, gain the confidence of knowing that you will have access to safe water for days, weeks and even months should your water supply be compromised by a natural disaster or other emergency.