Category Archives: Chino Hills

Chino Valley Chamber Expo Makes Connections

IMG_1422Staff Reports

Chino– On Saturday, Oct. 3, the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with Chino Valley Medical Center, hosted its annual Business Expo featuring more than 100 vendor booths and drawing more than 500 attendees to the at the Shoppes at Chino Hills.
The crowd mingled among booths while learning about local companies, including Delicate Smiles, Cruise Planners, Pampered Chef, Welborn Media, ABC Public Relations/Armijo News, Nutrishop Chino Hills, and Smileland Orthodontics.
In addition, a variety of local agencies were represented, including The Chino Valley Police Department’s, Supervisor Curt Hagman, City of Chino, City of Chino Hills and Chino Valley Fire District. Kids also enjoyed a variety of fun activities including pony rides, petting zoo and a children’s corner.
The Chamber was delighted to see such a great turnout from vendors and visitors, the visitors and vendors themselves all seemed pleased to have taken the time to be a part of the expo.

IMG_1475 IMG_1479

Chino Valley Fire Department Awarded Transparency Certificate of Excellence

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Photo Courtesy: Chino Valley Fire District

Courtesy of the Chino Valley Fire District

 

Chino Valley – The Chino Valley Fire District was awarded the District Transparency Certificate of Excellence by the Special District Leadership Foundation in recognition of good governance practices during its annual California Special Districts Association Conference. It is the second time the Fire District received this award.

The Fire District demonstrated compliance in eight essential governance transparency requirements, including conducting ethics training for all board members, properly conducting open and public meetings, and filing financial transactions and compensation reports to the State Controller in a timely manner.

“The Fire Board and District staff is to be commended for their commitment to being fully transparent, open and accessible to the public and all our stakeholders,” said Chino Valley Fire Chief Tim Shackelford.

The Fire District also fulfilled 15 website requirements, including providing readily available information to the public, such as board agendas, past minutes, current district budget, and the most recent financial audit.

Finally, the Fire District demonstrated outreach efforts to constituents that engage them in our governance through newsletters and other materials.

The Special District Leadership Foundation is a non-profit organization that was formed to promote good governance and best practices among California’s special districts through certification, accreditation and other recognition programs.

Chino Hills: Wahfles Gourmet Desserts, Sandwiches, and Coffee

Chino Valley Chamber Welcomes Newest Member

 

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Did someone say, “Waffles and coffee?” Yes, please! Chino Hills has been a little spoiled lately with the enticing Wahfles Gourmet Desserts, Sandwiches, and Coffee eatery, located at 5751 Pine Ave.
Wahfles Chino Hills has been serving up gourmet waffle sandwiches and specialty coffees for two years now but recently came under new ownership by Chino Hills residents, Anthony, Lorraine and son Jacob Abel. Wahfles Chino Hills serves a unique array of specialty and classic waffle desserts and sandwiches, a full espresso bar, shaken teas, special drinks, ice blended drinks and affogatos. Patrons can also create their own waffles and coffee drinks with very willing and able Wahfle Creators and experienced baristas.
So, whether you are catching up with friends, grabbing a quick bite for lunch or taking the family out for Sunday morning breakfast, Wahfles Chino Hills is a cozy, family-friendly spot ready to serve up some savory goodness any time of day.
Wahfles Chino Hills is open Monday through Thursday, 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Fridays, 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.; Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and Sundays, 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.
The Abel family is no stranger to the Chino Valley area. They have called Chino Hills their home for 18 years.  Lorraine currently teaches at the Alternative Education Center in the Chino Unified School District for independent study for high school students since 2011, though she has taught in the elementary division since 2003.  Anthony runs the restaurant full time alongside his son Jacob, 18, when he is not busy with college life.
The Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce will officially welcome their newest members, Wahfles Gourmet Desserts, Sandwiches, and Coffee with a special ribbon-cutting ceremony on Wednesday, Oct. 7 at 3 p.m. Leave the toaster at home and join Chamber members, city officials, local elected officials and community members in welcoming the Abel family to the Chino Valley business community.

Chino Valley Unified Students Become Fair Heroes

Courtesy of CVUSD

Chino Valley – Two Chino Valley Unified School District students have been named Young Adult Community Heroes for the Los Angeles County Fair, currently underway through Sept. 27, in Pomona.

Kayla Jones of Chino Hills High is the Chino Hills Young Adult Hero.  She was honored with Adult Community Hero, Laura Montegue, on Chino Hills Day at the Fair, Fri., Sept. 18.  Montegue is known for reuniting lost pets with their owners and finds homes for stray dogs.

Brianna Cabrera of Don Lugo High is the Chino Young Adult Hero.  She will be recognized with Adult Community Hero, Augustine Tapia, on Chino Day at the Fair on Wed., Sept. 23. Tapia served on the Chino Valley Unified School District Board of Education in from the mid-1970s through the early 1980s. He is currently president of the Chino Valley Historical Society.

Jones is a junior at Chino Hills High School, an honors student, and a participant in the AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) college preparation program. She is active in the Black Student Union, and competes in track and field at Chino Hills High. She is a member of the high school ministry at Inland Hills Church in Chino, and works with preschoolers as a children’s church volunteer leader. Jones also assists in the weekly bingo games at Chino American Legion Post 299, and has worked on fundraisers for the Chino Hills Dog Park Committee. She has adopted a trail for litter removal at Soquel Canyon Parkway and Pipeline Avenue, and participates in the Walk Against Human Trafficking and Relay for Life fundraising efforts for the American Cancer Society.   Jones plans to earn a master’s degree in gerontology and pursue a degree in law.

Cabrera attends Don Lugo High in Chino. She started a Best Buddies program chapter for Don Lugo during the 2014-15 school year. Best Buddies was founded in 1989 to help create friendships for students with intellectual disabilities. Cabrera is also a member of Don Lugo’s Associated Student Body leadership, and on the school’s varsity track team. She is raising a black Labrador Retriever puppy for Guide Dogs for the Blind. The dog, Quinn, is a regular at Don Lugo, where he is learning socialization skills. For the last ten years, Cabrera has been involved in gymnastics. She is in her third year as a cheerleader with CheerForce Orange County, where she is a member of the Level 4 team, Kryptonite, which won USA Nationals in March.

Photo Courtesy: CVUSD

Photo Courtesy: CVUSD
Kayla Jones and Brianna Cabrera

Photo Courtesy: CVUSD

Photo Courtesy: CVUSD

Chino Valley: Remax Top Producers

CV Chamber welcomes a new member

 

By Gel Delos Santos

Chino Valley – When you’re opening a new business in Chino or Chino Hills, one of the things that the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce does for you as a member is hold a ribbon cutting ceremony – with either the City Mayor or representatives from their office, as well as representatives from the District and Assembly offices – to wish you well and award you with a certificate of membership.  What an excellent way to let the community know about your company.

On Thurs., Aug. 27, the Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce did the very same for Remax Top Producers, located at 13788 Roswell Ave., #167, in Chino.  It was a very well attended and well planned event, with a grand opening celebration held immediately after the ribbon cutting.

Christian and Jeanette Fuentes – a husband and wife owner/broker team – are quickly becoming quite an icon in the real estate industry.  The company started four years ago in Diamond Bar, with eight agents in a 2,000 square foot office building.  In just a short time, they grew to 72 agents in 9,000 square feet of space.  Two months ago they opened a second location in Chino with another 18 agents.  Their goal is to have a combined total of 120 agents this year.

Christian believes in sharing his 19 years of experience, knowledge and success with anyone he brings in

to his company.  He encourages all his agents to share with each other what works for them, no secrets.  If one is successful, the others should be too.  “Success is contagious” is Christian’s motto.

Christian and Jeanette have been blessed with two beautiful children, Alexandria, 5, and their son Liam, 2.  Christian believes in spending good quality time with family.  He tells his agents that they don’t have to be slaves to their business, but to have a good balance between family and work.

Furthermore, the Fuentes’ firmly believe in charity giving, and on Nov. 13, Remax Top Producers will hold a Charity Poker Tournament to benefit Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals.  This is the company’s third year holding this event, successfully raising $18,000 in the first year, and $21,000 last year.  This year’s goal is to raise $25,000.

If you would like to know more about the Charity Poker Tournament, visit www.remaxTPcharityevent.com or contact Nayelli Soto at (909) 590-8853 or Christian Fuentes at (626) 625-9037.

The Chino Valley Chamber of Commerce is proud to welcome Remax Top Producers to the Chino Valley community.

 

Chino Hills Man Arrested

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Sat., Sept. 12, Chino Hills Deputies – with the assistance of the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Narcotics Division – investigated the possession of a controlled substance for sales.

According to the Chino Hills Police Department, a search warrant was served to suspect, David Selle, 45, as his residence on Organdy Lane in Chino Hills, under suspicion of being involved in the sales of methamphetamine.

During the warrant service, Deputies located approximately one ounce of crystal methamphetamine, a handgun (which was reported missing in May), approximately 84 rounds of live ammunition, and other evidence that confirmed Selle was, in fact, involved in the suspected drug sales.

Selle was arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center.

Anyone with information regarding this investigation – or any criminal activity – is urged to call the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000; or, if you wish to remain anonymous, call WeTip at 800 78-CRIME.

 

Chino Valley: Smooth Start To New School Year

Courtesy CVUSD

Chino Valley – Chino Valley Unified School District had one of its smoothest openings to the new school year, according to several people attending the Sept. 3 Board of Education meeting.

“He wanted to thank everyone for what he felt is the best start of the school year in a long time,” said Mary Hancock, speaking for her husband, Todd Hancock, president of the Associated Chino Teachers (ACT) union. “He also wanted to thank the director of special education for one of the best years for special education students.”

Hancock said her husband wanted to thank Superintendent Wayne M. Joseph for giving teachers additional preparation time for classes. Superintendent Joseph concurred with the ACT president’s assessment, saying the first week of school was smooth everywhere he went that week.

Denise Arroyo, president of the Classified School Employees Association, which represents bus drivers, secretaries and other school support staff, also said the school year opening “went quite smoothly.”

“There were some hiccups, phones and Internet not working on the first day,” she said, but overall praising staff for an easy beginning to the new school year.

Hidden Trails Elementary School Principal, Yvette Farley, president of CHAMP, the group that represents management employees in the District, said the start of school was very smooth. The principal said she was “pleasantly surprised to have an intervention counselor show up on the first day of school to see how students were doing.”

Identifying student behavior issues early is important, Farley said, so principals and teachers have time to discuss how they will deal with any problems.

“It has been a great start of school,” board trustee Sylvia Orozco told members of the school board audience. “I’m so happy to hear great things. As always, there were some bumps in the road, but have patience, they will be worked out.”

Board President Irene Hernandez-Blair said she did receive some emails about traffic problems and student dress code issues, but she said parents need to take responsibility for driving carefully and politely in school zones and making sure their children dress appropriately for school.

“The board revised the dress code and principals are doing all that they can,” she said.

Board of Education member Pamela Feix complimented all school district staff members for the smooth school opening. Just after the Aug. 24 opening of the school year, local educators and staff members reported a very quiet beginning. During that first day, students and parents were introduced to several new administrators and approximately 100 additional teachers.

Canyon Hills Junior High offered its new breakfast program, making it the latest of 24 schools in the Chino Valley Unified School District offering before-school nutrition. Kindergarten through 3rd Grade students returned to smaller class sizes as the District reduced its student to teacher ratio to 26 to 1. Several school facilities underwent construction improvements this summer, including roofing, exterior paint, energy-saving LED lighting, asphalt, and installation of drought-resistant landscaping.

Link Crews, composed of junior and senior high students, welcomed freshmen and pledged to be their buddies throughout the new school year. Chino High’s cheerleaders, waving pompoms and cheering, formed a welcome path for students as they entered the campus. The school’s student leaders held up welcome signs along the street as students arrived.

Ayala High senior, Shweta Shah, student representative to the school board, said a team of students at her school made “everyone feel welcome on campus.”

“Wow, what a positive beginning of the school year,” Chino Hills City Councilman Art Bennett exclaimed as he began his City report for the school board audience.

Bark For Life Chino Valley

Photo Courtesy: Bark For Life of Chino Valley

Photo Courtesy: Bark For Life of Chino Valley

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – With the support of thousands of volunteers, the American Cancer Society is helping save more than 400 lives a day. The Relay For Life and Bark For Life movement offers an inspiring opportunity to honor cancer survivors, promote how individuals can reduce their cancer risk, and raise money to help end cancer. And they won’t stop until they finish the fight against cancer!

On Sat., Oct. 17, you and your favorite K-9 pal can get involved in the fight against cancer, too.  The Chino Valley Bark for Life event begins at 9 a.m. at Boys Republic High School.  Families and their dogs can come together for a few hours during the day and complete a one mile walk to honor cancer survivors, and the care giving qualities of their canine “Best Friends.”

Some of the festivities include:  Doggie Games; Top Dog and dress up contests; Team and Community fundraising; music and food; and special dog guest demonstrations by therapy, police and rescue dogs.

Photo Courtesy: Bark For Life of Chino Valley Jennifer Rudin and Lyle Ballard proudly display the new CV Bark For Life sign.

Photo Courtesy: Bark For Life of Chino Valley
Jennifer Rudin and Lyle Ballard proudly display the new CV Bark For Life sign.

Come and meet the 2015 Bark Ambassador, Dr. Greg Ogilvie – Director of the Angel Care Cancer Center at California Veterinary Specialists; President of the Special Care Foundation for Companion Animals; and Division Director of Veterinary Oncology at the University of California-San Diego, Moores Cancer Center – as well as a very special guest that helps to support the American Cancer Society and kicks off the Walk with an opening group lap.

The Closing Ceremony starts at 2:30, with the announcement of raffle prize winners.

Join the Chino Valley Bark For Life event, and enjoy a day of unconditional love, make some new friends, share heartwarming stories, and help raise funds in the fight against cancer.

To register, sponsor, or get additional information, visit www.relayforlife.org/barkchinoca, or contact the Bark For Life event chair, Jennifer Rudin, at bflchinoeventchair@gmail.com.

Prepare Today For Tomorrow’s Emergencies

Courtesy of the Chino Valley Fire District

Chino Valley – The Chino Valley Fire District encourages all Chino Valley residents and business owners to observe National Preparedness Month throughout September by putting together an emergency supply kit and creating and practicing an emergency evacuation plan.

Taking simple steps today to prepare for tomorrow’s emergencies will help protect you, your family and your business should disaster strike.

Below is a list of items to consider including in your emergency supply kit:

  • One gallon of water per person per day (a week’s supply is preferable)
  • First-Aid kit, freshly stocked
  • Nonperishable foods and non-electric can opener
  • Blankets or sleeping bags
  • Portable radio, flashlight, light sticks and spare batteries
  • Essential medications and prescription glasses
  • Change of clothing
  • An adjustable wrench for turning off gas
  • Important family documents
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Feminine supplies and personal hygiene items

 

For more information, including a complete emergency supply checklist, visit www.chinovalleyfire.org.

 

 

Chino Hills Burglary Arrest

Photo Courtesy: Flickr

Photo Courtesy: Flickr

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Fri., Aug. 21, Deputies from the Chino Hills Police Department responded to the Mission Hills Apartments located at 3100 Chino Hills Parkway in reference to a vehicle burglary.

According to the Chino Hills Police Department, investigation found that a suspect had broken the passenger window of a vehicle and took a laptop computer and an Apple iPad.  The victim was able to activate the Find My iPad app, which led Deputies to the 13300 block of Saddle Lane in the city of Chino.

At that residence, the Chino Hills Detective Bureau had also responded to a report of a stolen vehicle, which was located with the suspect – Gerardo Cebreros-Vargas, 23, of Chino.  The vehicle was found to have stolen property – including the stolen iPad – from at least six victims from Chino and Chino Hills.

Through investigation, Deputies determined that an additional stolen vehicle was involved in these crimes.  The second vehicle was located at 4200 Village Drive in Chino Hills.

Cebreros-Vargas was booked into the West Valley Detention Center without further incident, and was charged with Vehicle Burglary, Grand Theft, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, and Possession of Stolen Property.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact the Chino Hills Police Station at (909) 364-2000, or WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME.

Chino Hills Burglary Arrests

Deputies prevent two burglaries as a result of immediate response to reports of suspicious subjects

 

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Chino Hills Deputies prevented two pre-dawn burglaries on Mon., Aug. 17, as a result of immediate response to reports of suspicious subjects in the area.  Five people were arrested for attempted burglary and conspiracy to commit burglary.
According to the Chino Hills Police Department, Trayvean Waever, 18; Terrell Small, 22; Isaac Metzmeier, 18 – all of Yucca Valley; Maurice Ross-Goodson, 19, of Joshua Tree; and a 17-year old juvenile from Pomona, were arrested on suspicion of knocking on doors and trying to remove screens from empty houses.
A resident called authorities at 3:35 a.m. to report seeing several suspects in the neighborhood knocking on doors in the 3200 block of Olympic View. When Deputies arrived on scene, four male subjects were seen fleeing the area on foot. The four suspects were found and detained, and a fifth suspect was found at a nearby park. The suspect’s vehicle was also found, parked in close proximity.
During the investigation, Deputies found a starter pistol – which is essentially a revolver with a plugged barrel that renders it incapable of shooting live ammunition, but looks like a functioning firearm. Detectives also uncovered evidence of a conspiracy between the suspects, who were planning to travel from the Yucca Valley area with the intent to commit burglary of empty homes in the Chino Hills area.
The Chino Hills Police Department would like to remind residents to make proper arrangements with friends, neighbors or family members to have their homes maintained while on vacation. Be sure to have mail and newspapers picked up, or suspended to avoid obvious signs that nobody is home.
 

Summer Barbeques: A Cautionary Tale

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – On Wed., Aug. 5, Chino Valley Fire District firefighters responded to a barbeque fire on the 16000 block of Pipeline Avenue in Chino that resulted in minor injuries. Firefighters kept the fire from spreading to the patio and home by isolating it to the cooking station area. CVFD firefighter/paramedics treated a female patient for minor burn injuries.

Summer is a great time for get-togethers and barbeques, and the best way to ensure that your family and guests have a happy and memorable experience, is to exercise caution when using outdoor grills.

The Chino Valley Fire District offers the following guidelines and tips to help keep you safe.

Before Using Your Propane Grill:

  • Check all fuel connection points to confirm they are tight.
  • Check the fuel source hose for any leaks:
    • Apply a light soap and water solution to the hose using a brush or spray bottle.
    • Turn the fuel source on. If there is a leak, the gas will release bubbles around the hose. If there are no bubbles, your grill is safe to use.
    • If there are bubbles, turn off the tank and check connections, then have your grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
    • If the leak doesn’t stop, call the Fire Department immediately.

When Turning On The Grill:

  • Make sure the lid is open when lighting the grill. This will help prevent a possible gas explosion.

When The Grill Is On:

  • If you smell gas while you are cooking, turn off the gas and burners.
  • If the leak stops immediately, get the grill serviced by a professional before using it again.
  • If the smell continues, move away from the grill and call the Fire Department immediately. Do not move the grill.

For more information on fire and life safety, contact the Chino Valley Fire District at (909) 902-5260, or visit their website at www.chinovalleyfire.org.

Chino Hills: Station Implements Policy For Unsafe Driving

Focused enforcement coming to Carbon Canyon Road

Photo Courtesy: CarbonCanyonChronicle.com

Photo Courtesy: CarbonCanyonChronicle.com
Carbon Canyon Road is comprised of plenty of S-curve and hairpin turns, as well as high and low speed limits and a mostly two-lane highway running from Brea to Chino Hills.

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – As part of an ongoing effort to educate drivers and encourage safe driving practices on Carbon Canyon Road, the Chino Hills Police Department will be conducting focused enforcement for violations of the California Vehicle Code. Violations of speeding, unsafe passing on the left, crossing double-parallel yellow lines, and aggressive driving will be strictly enforced.

According to the Chino Hills Police Department, as this enforcement policy is implemented, they are asking drivers for their cooperation in operating their motor vehicles and motorcycles in a safe manner. The safe operation of a motor vehicle is the responsibility of every driver and they are seeking your help in reducing traffic collisions.

If you witness aggressive and reckless driving, please contact your local law enforcement immediately. For ongoing traffic problems, you can contact the Chino Hills Police Department directly at (909) 364-2000 or WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME.
The National Highway Transportation Safety Administration defines aggressive driving as “the operation of a motor vehicle in a manner that endangers or is likely to endanger persons or property.”  Common characteristics of the aggressive driver include:
• They are high-risk drivers, more likely to drink and drive, speed, or drive unbelted.
• Their vehicle provides anonymity, allowing them to take out their frustrations on other drivers.
• Their frustration levels are high; concern for other motorists is low.
• They consider vehicles as objects and fail to consider the human element involved; therefore, they seldom consider the consequences of their actions.
• They run stop signs, disobey red lights, speed, tailgate, weave in and out of traffic, pass on the right, make unsafe lane changes, flash their lights, blow their horns, or make hand and facial gestures.

The Statewide Integrated Traffic Records System statistics show that unsafe speed, improper turning, and unsafe lane changes are the top causes of traffic collisions. From August 2014 through July 2015, Carbon Canyon Road has experienced 3 fatal collisions, 91 injury collisions, and 105 property damage collisions all within the city of Chino Hills.
Carbon Canyon Road, also known as State Route 142, traverses through the city of Chino Hills and the city of Brea. This asphalt roadway mainly consists of one lane in each direction that is divided by double-parallel yellow lines, and the speed limit for a majority of the road is 45 MPH.

Please allow yourself sufficient time to travel to your destination as this heavily traveled roadway experiences the greatest congestion during early morning and late afternoon hours. Please act responsibly when behind the wheel, and drive safe.

If You Can’t Take The Heat…

CVFD offers Tips for the Heat Wave

 

Image Courtesy: Google

Image Courtesy: Google

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – As the temperatures increase throughout the region – in some places in excess of 105 degrees – the Chino Valley Fire District urges residents to take precautions that will help prevent heat-related illnesses.

Stay Cool and Hydrated:

  • Spend the warmest part of the day in air-conditioned buildings.
  • Limit outdoor activity, especially midday when it is hottest, and avoid direct sunlight.
  • Drink more water than usual. Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water.
  • Drink from two to four cups of water every hour while working.
  • Dress in loose-fitting, lightweight, and light-colored clothes.
  • NEVER leave children or pets alone in closed vehicles – even for a minute!
  • Check on at-risk friends, family and neighbors at least twice a day.

Swimming Pool Safety:

  • Have an adult designated to supervise children whenever they are in or around water.
  • Remove children from water for any distractions such as a phone call or to use the restroom.

Barbeque Safety:

  • Visually inspect propane hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes and leaks. A soap and water solution may be used to test for leaks. Never use a flame to check for leaks.
  • Never use a grill indoors or closer than 10 feet from a building, eaves, branches or other combustibles.
  • Never leave a charcoal or propane grill unattended.

For additional safety tips, please visit the Fire District’s website at www.chinovalleyfire.org.

Chino Hills: Unauthorized Curb Painter Alert

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Some Chino Hills residents are receiving flyers indicating that street addresses are being painted on the curbs in their neighborhoods.

According to City officials, these street address painters have not been authorized by the City to paint street addresses on the curbs. The notices typically do not contain any contact information, nor do they have an approved business license to operate legally in Chino Hills. In some cases, the notices ask the resident to take action if they do NOT want the service. At other times, the notices ask residents to request the service by completing the form and taping it to the curb. Some notices request payment before the curbs are painted.

“It is illegal for these companies to paint the street address on the curb because curbs are City property,” said Ben Montgomery, Deputy City Manager. “Police and Code Enforcement staff make every attempt to stop this illegal activity. However, it can be very difficult to catch them in the act.”

Residents are under no obligation to hire curb painters and should not feel compelled to pay for any service they have not requested. Residents with questions may call Code Enforcement at (909) 364-2757.

Chino Valley Scam Alert

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: CVFD This is an official Chino Valley Fire District Uniform

Photo Courtesy: CVFD
This is an official Chino Valley Fire District Uniform

Chino Valley – The Chino Valley Fire District wants to alert business owners of unsolicited companies claiming to be sent to their businesses by the Fire Marshal, Fire District or a Fire Inspector.  These unsolicited companies claim that they are being sent on behalf of the local fire agency to perform an inspection or survey of the business.  The unsolicited companies target fire protection equipment, systems and other areas related to fire safety.

Fire inspections in Chino and Chino Hills are conducted by Fire District personnel.  All Chino Valley Fire District personnel who perform fire and life safety inspections wear an approved uniform. The uniform has a badge clearly displayed above the left front pocket and a Fire District patch on the left upper sleeve of their uniform shirt.  Businesses are encouraged to request a business card from anyone who claims to be at their business to conduct an inspection or to call the Fire District at (909) 902-5260 to verify an inspection by Fire District personnel.

Below are some precautionary measures that businesses can take:

  • Business owners should ask for proof of a proper license before anyone services their fire extinguishers, sprinkler system or alarm system.  Refuse fire protection services if proper identification is not provided. Have fire protection companies leave any parts that have been replaced.
  • Ask for identification of anyone requesting to perform any type of inspection.  CVFD personnel carry a Fire District ID card and business cards.
    • Always obtain an estimate for services or work that needs to be performed.
    • Do not pay upfront for any services rendered and do not pay with cash. Never sign a blank invoice.
  • Fire extinguishers should be inspected and serviced annually by a licensed technician. Be sure to record the date of the previous service, the quantity and size of your extinguishers, and the purchase dates.
  • Record the dates of the fire sprinkler, fire alarm, and special fire protection system installations and services.
  • Be cautious of service companies that show up “UNSOLICITED”.
  • Educate employees on business owner rights and fraudulent practices. Post this information where your employees have access to it (e.g. at the front desk or employee break room).

If you are in doubt or have any questions, contact the Chino Valley Fire District at (909) 902-5260, or visit our website at www.chinovalleyfire.org.

Chino Valley: Weed Abatement

A Year-Round Commitment to Safety

 

 Staff Reports

Chino Valley – Keeping your home and property clear of brush and rubbish is a year-long commitment to fire safety.

According to the Chino Valley First District, inspections for proper clearance of tumbleweeds and other combustible materials will begin on Aug. 25. Courtesy reminder cards were mailed at the end of July to Chino and Chino Hills residents with a previous history of overgrown vegetation on their property.

Tumbleweeds, combustible vegetation and rubbish must be cleared by Aug. 25.  If a hazard exists on or after that time, property owners will be charged a $130 non-compliance fee – and owners are still responsible for clearing their property.

Properties that are not cleared by the re-inspection date of Oct. 14 will be cleared by a contractor hired by the Fire District. In addition to the cost to clear the hazard, an additional $200 administration fee will be billed per parcel. This applies to all parcels, including adjoining parcels. The legal owner of record at the time the property is cited is responsible for all fees and charges.

Fire District officials will focus on the removal of tumbleweeds during this inspection period because of the fire hazard they pose. Tumbleweeds are a high fire danger due to their propensity to break loose once dry and be carried by the wind to areas where they can accumulate along flammable vegetation, wood fences, homes and other combustible materials.

Property owners are required to maintain their properties clear of tumbleweeds, combustible vegetation and rubbish year round. Below are some helpful tips for clearing vegetation in a safe and effective manner.

  • Use trimming, mowing and power equipment before 10 a.m. and after 6 p.m. (it is cooler at that time with more moisture in the air, making fires harder to start).
  • Never use a lawn mower in dry vegetation. Use a weed trimmer to cut down dry weeds and grass.
  • Keep a cell phone nearby and call 911 immediately in case of a fire. Never put yourself in harm’s way to extinguish an advancing fire.

For more information about the weed abatement program, please visit our website at www.chinovalleyfire.org, or call the Fire Prevention Bureau at (909) 902-5285.

Chino Hills: Three Arrested For Robberies

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Sat., July 25, at about 9:53 p.m., two robberies occurred in the city of Chino Hills. The victims are not associated with one another and were walking on the sidewalk in the area of Chino Avenue and Peyton Drive when the crimes occurred.

In both robberies, the suspects drove up to the victims, pointed a silver colored semi-automatic handgun at them and demanded their property. In fear for their safety, the victims complied and handed their property over to the suspects. As the suspects fled, one of the victims was able to obtain a license plate number.
Deputies from the Chino Hills Police Department responded and initiated the investigation. With the information provided by the victims, Deputies were able to positively identify one of the suspects – a 17-year old juvenile from Beaumont – and obtained arrest and search warrants.  The information on this suspect and his vehicle was provided to law enforcement agencies throughout Southern California.
On Sun., July 26, 2015, at about 4:50 p.m., Huntington Beach Police Officers found the suspect vehicle, which was occupied by five subjects. Officers initiated a traffic stop and detained all of the occupants. Investigators from the Chino Hills Police Department were notified of the stop and drove to Huntington Beach. Through investigation, three of the five subjects were identified as the suspects in the Chino Hills robberies and an additional robbery in Rancho Cucamonga.
During a search of the vehicle, investigators located evidence linking the passengers to the crime. Deputies also recovered property that belonged to one of the victims from Chino Hills.

Heather Chambers, 18, of San Bernardino was arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center.  The 17-year old juvenile from Beaumont and a 16-year old juvenile from Rialto were booked into San Bernardino County Juvenile Hall for Robbery and Conspiracy.
Anyone with information related to this investigation is urged to contact the Chino Hills Police Department. Those who want to report information anonymously can call WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME.

Chino Valley: CVFD Board of Director Election

Staff Reports

Chino Valley – As part of the Nov. 3, 2015 Consolidated General Election, a general district election will be held for the Chino Valley Fire District to fill three seats on the Board of Directors. Each seat is designated for a four-year term, beginning December 2015 through December 2019.

Candidates must legally reside within the District boundaries and must be registered voters at the time nomination forms are issued to qualify as a candidate.

Official filing forms may be obtained from either the Chino Valley Fire District’s Fire Administration, located at 14011 City Center Drive in Chino Hills, or from the San Bernardino County Elections Office of the Registrar of Voters located at 777 E. Rialto Avenue in San Bernardino. All completed forms must be filed no later than 5 p.m. on Aug. 7, 2015, at the Elections Office of the Registrar of Voters.

The Fire District is governed by a five-member Board of Directors that serve four-year staggered terms. Directors are responsible for overseeing the formulation and evaluation of policies.

Board Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of each month, commencing at 6:00 p.m.

Chino Hills: Multiple Arrests

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – On Fri., July 17, Chino Hills Deputies arrested a known Pomona gang member during an extra patrol due to recent vehicle burglaries.

In the parking lot near Costco, located at 13001 Peyton Drive, Deputies conducted a check on an occupied Toyota Corolla parked at the former Best Buy. During the contact, Ruben Castorena, 28, of Pomona, was identified as a Pomona gang member. He claimed a black bag in the back seat was his and Deputies found the bag to contain tools known to be used to commit burglary.

The second occupant of the vehicle was Michael Palma, 28, of Pomona, who was found to be in possession of a controlled substance not prescribed to him.

Both Castorena and Palma were booked into the West Valley Detention Center for possession of Burglary Tools and Controlled Substance.

Also on Fri., July 17, Chino Hills Deputies were in the 15800 block of Ashwood Dr., to serve a search warrant. While at the location, Deputies heard a loud squealing noise approaching the residence and saw a suspect driving a brown Chevy truck east on Glen Ridge Dr. at an unsafe speed; the truck had obvious front-end damage.
The suspect ignored orders from Deputies to stop the vehicle and continued driving at an unsafe speed north on Ashwood Dr. Deputies initiated a traffic stop, and the driver – Eric Serna – was found to be on active CDCR parole. Serna was in possession of suspected methamphetamine, a methamphetamine pipe, several hypodermic needles, and was also under the influence of a controlled substance.
During the investigation, it was discovered that Serna struck a parked vehicle on Rolling Ridge Dr. and fled the scene without notifying the owner. Serna was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under the influence of a drug, and hit and run non-injury.

On Tues., July 21, Chino Hills Detectives arrested three men for burglary after the suspects ransacked a home in the 14800 block of Country Creek Ct.

The suspects first targeted a home in the 3400 block of Royal Ridge Court. An alert witness saw the suspects ring the doorbell repeatedly and then enter the backyard. The witness was able to get a detailed description of the suspects and a license plate of the vehicle, which was a light silver BMW.
About 15 minutes later, another call of suspicious circumstances came out in the south end of the City. As detectives arrived in the neighborhood, they saw the suspect vehicle. Detectives followed the suspect vehicle in an unmarked unit to Orange County, via the 71, 91 and 55 freeways, while waiting for marked units to assist with a traffic stop.
The suspects exited the 55 Freeway South at Chapman Avenue in Orange as CHP officers attempted to initiate a traffic stop. The suspect vehicle led officers on a pursuit back on the 55 Freeway northbound and exited Katella Avenue. The pursuit continued through the city of Orange, and ended with the suspect losing control and crashing in a residential neighborhood. Orange Police Department and the Orange County Sheriff’s Department also assisted in the apprehension of the suspects. Chino Hills Detectives took the lead on the case and transported the suspects to the Chino Hills Station to further the investigation.
Eddie Nguon, 26, of Long Beach, Michael Mao, 33, of Long Beach, and Polyhana Mao, 33, of Kearns, Utah, were arrested and booked into the West Valley Detention Center for burglary and attempted burglary.

Detectives recovered thousands of dollars worth of US savings bonds, US currency, jewelry and electronics from the suspect’s vehicle. The victim of the burglary on Country Creek Ct. was able to identify all the stolen property. Detectives also recovered three sets of gloves and burglary tools from the suspect vehicle.
Anyone with additional information on any of these incidents is asked to contact the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000. Those who want to report information anonymously can call WeTip at 1-800-78-CRIME.