Category Archives: Norco

Norco: DUI/ Driver’s License Checkpoint Nets 4 DUI Arrests

Riverside County Sheriff’s Department

Norco  – The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department/Jurupa Valley Station/Norco Office conducted a DUI/Driver’s License checkpoint on July 11, 2015, at Hamner Ave. and Commerce St., between the hours of 8:00 p.m. and 3:00 a.m.  Checkpoints are placed in locations that have the greatest opportunity for achieving drunk and drugged driver deterrence and provide the greatest safety for officers and the public.

DUI/Driver’s License checkpoints have been shown to lower DUI deaths and injuries.  A major component of these checkpoints are the deterrent effects it has on those who might drive drunk or drug impaired, bringing about more awareness and encouraging everyone to use sober designated drivers.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), checkpoints have provided the most effective documented results of any of the DUI enforcement strategies, while also yielding considerable cost savings of $6 for every $1 spent.  Ninety percent of California drivers approve of checkpoints.

Checkpoint results:

  • 598 Vehicles through the checkpoint
  • 549 Vehicles screened
  • 4 DUI suspects arrested
  • 7 Drivers arrested for operating a vehicle unlicensed
  • 3 Drivers arrested for operating a vehicle on a suspended license
  • 2 Misdemeanor warrant arrests
  • 6 Vehicles towed

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department/Jurupa Valley Station/Norco Office will be conducting additional DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint throughout the year, in our ongoing commitment to lowering deaths and injuries upon our streets and highways.

The checkpoint was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.  Report Drunk Drivers – Call 9-1-1!

Details:

Norco, CA – The Norco Sheriff’s Office will be conducting a DUI/Driver’s License Checkpoint on July 11, 2015, at an undisclosed location within the city limits between the hours of 8:00 p.m. to 3:00 a.m.

The deterrent effect of Driving Under the Influence (DUI) checkpoints is a proven resource in reducing the number of persons killed and injured in alcohol or drug involved crashes. Research shows that crashes involving an impaired driver can be reduced by up to 20 percent when well-publicized DUI checkpoints and proactive DUI patrols are conducted routinely.

In California, this deadly crime led to 802 deaths in 2012 because someone failed to designate a sober driver. Nationally, the latest data shows nearly 10,000 were killed by an impaired driver.

Officers will be looking for signs of alcohol and/or drug impairment, as well as checking drivers for proper licensing.  Motorists should only be slightly inconvenienced. Specially trained officers will be available to evaluate those suspected of drug-impaired driving.

Recent statistics reveal 30 percent of drivers in fatal crashes had ingested one or more drugs.  A study of active drivers showed more tested positive for drugs that may impair driving (14 percent) than did for alcohol (7.3 percent). Marijuana was the most prevalent drug, at 7.4 percent, slightly more than alcohol.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), checkpoints have provided the most effective documented results of any of the DUI enforcement strategies, while also yielding considerable cost savings of $6 for every $1 spent. Nearly 90 percent of California drivers approve of DUI checkpoints.

DUI Checkpoints are placed in locations based on collision statistics and frequency of DUI arrests, affording the greatest opportunity for achieving DUI driving deterrence. Locations are chosen with safety considerations for the officers and the public.

Drivers caught driving impaired can expect the impact of the arrest to include jail time, fines, fees, DUI classes, and other expenses that can exceed $10,000.  The DUI arrest is public information and can expose the violator to a degree of public embarrassment.

Funding for this checkpoint is provided to the Norco Sheriff’s Office by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, reminding everyone to “report drunk driver/call 911.”

Norco Astronomy Night 2015

Staff Reports

Norco – Come join the City of Norco Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services and the Riverside Astronomical Society for a fun night of star gazing, and learn about the wonders of the night sky.

Astronomy Night 2015 will be held on Tues., June 23, at the Corydon Staging Area – directly across from Fire Station # 57 – on Corydon Avenue in Norco. The event will be from 8:30 to 10 p.m., and is free to the community.

Please note that the event may be subject to cancellation due to inclement weather.

For more information regarding this event, please call (951) 270-5632, or visit www.norco.ca.us.

Summer Fun

By K.P. Sander

Eastvale – Memorial Day – the unofficial start of summer – has come and gone and the school year is quickly coming to a close.

Summer Fun is upon us, and local cities have been working hard to bring you the very best in entertainment to make your summer just a little more enjoyable…and they’re FREE!

So pack up the kids, and bring along a blanket or some chairs, and a few snacks, and head on over to a plethora of entertainment opportunities.  There’s nothing like a little summer fun under the stars.

 

CHINO SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Chino City Hall Front Lawn, 13220 Central Ave

Thursdays, 7 to 9 p.m.

Bring chairs, blankets; food vendors on site

July 9: Eclipse – Top 40 Band

July 16: Soto – Latin style band

July 23: Rock Fantasy – Rock & Roll Band (LA2015 Special Olympics Community Celebration)

July 30: Hot August Night – Neil Diamond Tribute Band

Aug. 6:  Rumours – Fleetwood Mac Tribute Band

Aug. 13: DSB – Journey Tribute Band

More Info:  www.chinokiwanis.com

 

EASTVALE CONCERTS IN THE PARK

Harada Heritage Park, 13099 65th St

Fridays, 7:30 to 9 p.m.

Bring chairs, blankets; food vendors on site

July 10: Paul Justin & The Saloonatixx – Country Band
July 17: Red Not Chili Peppers – Red Hot Chili Peppers Tribute Band
July 24: Mick Adams & The Stones – Rolling Stones Tribute Band
July 31: Cold Duck – Top 40 Band
Aug. 7: DSB – Journey Tribute Band
Aug. 14: Neon Nation – 80s Band
Aug. 21: No Duh – No Doubt Tribute Band

Aug: 28: Joshua Tree – U2 Tribute Band

More Info:  (951) 727-3524
NORCO ROCKS – SUMMER CONCERTS IN THE PARK

Pikes Peak Park, 111 6th Street; enter at Gate 4

Fridays, 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Bring, chairs, blankets; food vendors on site

June 5: Yard Sale – 70s and 80s Band

June 19: Krazy Kirk and the Hillbillies – Bluegrass

July 3: Silverados – Country

July 17: Superlark – Classic Rock

July 31: Suspect – Classic Rock

Aug. 14: Rockstars of Tomorrow

More Info:  (951) 270-5632

Prado Fire Extinguished

Photo By: Felicia Oblea

Photo By: Felicia Oblea

By Randi Hauser

At 6:12 p.m. on Sat., Apr. 18, Riverside County firefighters responded to reports of a cooking fire that began at the Prado Dam Flood Control Basin near the 91 and 71 freeway interchange in Chino Hills. The fire quickly spread southeast along the Santa Ana River as the thick vegetation had not burned in decades.

12 fire crews and two water-drop helicopters fought the flames through the night as the fire continued. Rough terrain and thick brush made the battle difficult for crews on the ground.

Mandatory evacuations were ordered for Bluff, Homestead and Stagecoach roads in Norco. Evacuation centers were set up at Riley Gym for residents and Ingalls Park for animals, including horses.

Local businesses stepped into action to support their community in distress. It is reported that McDonald’s in Norco provided hundreds of hamburgers and apple slices to evacuees and firefighters battling the flames.  EZ-Ups provided shade to residents who were temporarily without a home.  Tractor Supply in Norco provided materials needed for the horse evacuation area set up at Ingalls Park.

According to Cal Fire, evacuations were lifted on the morning of Mon., Apr. 20 as the blaze was contained to 35%.

A smoke sensitivity warning remained in order for a few days more as smoke lingered over Norco and Corona and ash continued to fall. The total, approximately 1,050 acres were burned, but no structural damage was reported.

Silverlakes: Back In Action

(Photo By: Randi Hauser) Spring has sprung in Norco as Silverlakes comes back to life after a long and fallow rest.

(Photo By: Randi Hauser)
Spring has sprung in Norco as Silverlakes comes back to life after a long and fallow rest.

By K.P. Sander

Norco – Think back to a year ago, when the Silverlakes Equestrian Center hit another barricade on a long and bumpy road.  Since the project began construction in 2007, it seems like one thing after another has prevented the 122-acre recreational facility from being completed.  The story – from financing issues to mistrust and lawsuits – has had a lot of drama.

On Thurs., Mar. 5, Eastvale’s Mayor Ike Bootsma announced that the project was a go.  “Funding is secured; bonds have been sold; and construction is going to start next week,” he said.  “Tournaments are scheduled to begin in September.”

As construction began once again on the barren field the week of March 9, interest has been renewed on the sports park that will ultimately contain an equestrian center capable of stabling and hosting world-class (possibly Olympic) events, 25 soccer fields, a 5,000-seat indoor stadium, an outdoor arena and event center, picnic areas, and more.  This beautiful sports mega-center could also bring in over $35 million to the City of Norco, and attract over a half million visitors…a boon for Norco, and Eastvale as well.

Steve King, Planning Director for the City of Norco, said that the project has definitely been approved.  “Synthetic and natural grass fields will be the first phase, along with some sand equine arenas,” he said.

The sports fields will be finished for use this year, and then other phases will commence construction thereafter.

Balboa Management Group, which has been at the helm (albeit on and off again) of construction for more than seven years, has secured $20 million in financing, according to the City of Eastvale.

Despite the ups and downs of Silverlakes, it’s not difficult to become re-enamored with anticipation over what is to come.  Citizens throughout Eastvale and Norco – and far beyond – will enjoy watching the construction process and look forward to enjoying the first fruits of the park come September.

As Eastvale’s Interim City Manager, Michele Nissen puts it, “Norco’s Silverlakes project has been a long-time coming, and we are happy to see the project start moving forward again.  Once this project is complete – assuming it is built out as planned – the regional benefits will be tremendous.  Invariably, there will be temporary construction inconveniences to Norco and Eastvale citizens, which go hand in hand with a project of this scope and magnitude.  This is a very exciting development that is poised to positively impact the trajectory of both cities.”

Well said.  This is definitely a project, that when completed, will place our communities in a more prominent place on the map.

 

 

The Ford Customer’s Best Friend

By Lisa Browning

(Photo Courtesy: Hemborg Ford) Hemborg Ford is located at 1900 Hamner Avenue in Norco. Visit them at Hemborgford.com.

(Photo Courtesy: Hemborg Ford)
Hemborg Ford is located at 1900 Hamner Avenue in Norco. Visit them at Hemborgford.com.

It’s been 112 years since Henry Ford first incorporated and the Ford Motor Company was born. Today, it’s one of the most popular vehicle brands in the country, and there are an estimated 3,800 Ford dealerships across the nation. Hemborg Ford, nestled in Norco, was opened by Bob Hemborg in March of 1983. They’ve been serving up a special brand of service for 32 years.

The dealership is the very definition of a family-owned and operated business; the Hemborg family started it, and they still own and run it today. Their commitment to customers and the surrounding communities is how they separate themselves from other dealerships in the region.

“It starts with a great product,” says General Sales Manager, Daryle Uhrich. “We certainly have that with the Ford line-up. But, you have to go beyond that. There’s no lack of Ford dealers in the region. The Hemborg family insists that the experience a customer receives here is friendly, and helpful. We’re old school in that sense; we don’t hassle, we handshake.”

Uhrich pulls up an online comment from a customer and reads it out loud. “Best car buying experience we have ever had. Can’t say enough about the sales person; honest, funny, fair, patient. Will be coming back.”  Ulrich smiles, adding with emphasis, “That is exactly what we want to hear!”

An experienced, knowledgeable staff pays close attention to the enormous inventory of F-Series trucks that are a staple. The Ford F-Series has been the best-selling vehicle in the U.S. for nearly 40 years. More than 2,000 are sold in the U.S. every day, and a great deal of truck business comes Hemborg’s way. The Truck Center is a huge section of the dealership, with row after row of gleaming workhorses.

“Norco is known as ‘Horse Town USA,’ and trucks are part of the lifestyle here,” Uhrich says.

Ford’s tagline is “Go Further,” while Hemborg’s tagline is a tongue-in-cheek nod to its surroundings, “Saddle Up!”

Not everything at Hemborg is old school. When the dealership first opened, there wasn’t a freeway within sight, and many current neighborhoods didn’t exist. The dealership has expanded to meet the growing needs of Norco, Corona, Chino and now Eastvale. Today, Hemborg’s service department maintains state-of-the-art diagnostics and highly skilled technicians. To accommodate the growing number of shoppers who turn to the Internet to browse and buy, Hemborg has invested in a comprehensive, user-friendly site.

Hemborg Ford supports a variety of local events, area schools and charitable organizations.

“You can treat your business address as just your location. The Hemborg way is to treat it like your home,” Uhrich says.

Asked what Hemborg’s goal is for 2015, Uhrich replies, “The same as it was last year. To be the Ford customer’s best friend.”

Hemborg Ford is located at 1900 Hamner Avenue. They are north of the 91/15 freeway interchange, at the Second Street exit in Norco. You can visit them online at Hemborgford.com.

Lake Norconian Club Foundation Sues To Stop Demo

(Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia) View of the Lake Norconian Resort, Dec. 2007

(Photo Courtesy: Wikipedia)
View of the Lake Norconian Resort, Dec. 2007

By K.P. Sander and Randi Hauser

Norco – Once Upon a Time, there was a beautiful resort.  The year was 1929.  The setting was an exquisite property located in the countryside north of Corona, California.

A handsome prince named Rex Clark built the resort, and on the property there was a statuesque hotel, a pavilion and beautiful manmade lake, a clubhouse with pools, an airstrip and a golf course.  No expense was spared in the grandeur of the facilities, with the finest of tapestries, stone, marble, paintings and ornate fixtures adorning at every opportunity.  The ballroom, dining room, guest rooms and swimming pools were all enticing, and designed with art deco and Mediterranean style architectures.

(Photo Courtesy: Lake Norconian Club Foundation) Caption: On May 20, 1928, the American Olympic Diving and Swimming Team participated in the grand opening of the Club’s outdoor pools. Cecily Cuhna set the world record for the 400 meter swim on that day.

(Photo Courtesy: Lake Norconian Club Foundation)
On May 20, 1928, the American Olympic Diving and Swimming Team participated in the grand opening of the Club’s outdoor pools. Cecily Cuhna set the world record for the 400 meter swim on that day.

Christened the Lake Norconian Club Resort, the property attracted the elite:  Hollywood stars, notable sports figures, a vast array of dignitaries, and world-class athletes all enjoyed its charms. Even Amelia Earhart used the resort’s airstrip to practice her piloting skills.  It was one of the darlings of its era.

The Lake Norconian Club enjoyed success until the Great Depression, and by 1933, the beautiful property was all but closed down.  Clark was struggling financially, but the resort was able to make somewhat of a comeback in 1935.  Despite some spectacular moments – like the legendary Walt Disney Studios bash to celebrate the success of the 1938 release of “Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs,” the Club closed permanently in 1940.

Just like its compatriot, the Queen Mary, the Lake Norconian Club left behind its glamorous past at the onset of World War II and joined the military.  The Club became a 5,000-patient naval hospital, after being purchased by the U.S. Navy in 1941.  Rather than entertaining its guests, it cared for them, at times in pioneering ways with the first uses of penicillin, as well as the polio vaccine.  Many of the stars who frequented the resort came back to boost patient morale through entertainment at the hospital.

In 1957, the hospital closed its doors, but a Naval Assessment Center remained on the property.  94 of the resort’s acres were given to the State of California.  A state-funded addiction treatment rehabilitation center was initially opened in the old clubhouse, but it morphed into a high security prison containing 5,000 “worst of the worst” inmates.

Fast forward to the present, and you will find the Lake Norconian Club Foundation working diligently to save the magnificent hotel building, and the national treasures that relic still tries to protect.  In 2000, 19 structures were deemed worthy of Historic District/National Landmark status.  By 2004, the main hotel was considered seismically unfit and abandoned.  Priceless chandeliers now phantomly light the way for wild animals; exquisitely painted ceilings and tiled floors lie water-damaged and rotting.

In 2013, the Navy – in consultation with the California State Historic Preservation Office – stated that no additional structures were eligible for salvage, despite efforts by the City of Norco and others toward the contrary.  The Navy now maintains one portion of the property, and the Department of Corrections the remainder.

On the Naval side, the buildings that did make the cut for the National Register – the pavilion, chauffeur’s quarters and garage, as well as the lake itself – have been cared for by countless Naval and civilian officials, but due to budget cuts their fate hangs in the balance.  The other side of the property is currently a medium security prison, with as many as 5,000 inmates at any given time.

The Lake Norconian Club Foundation, for one, is not going to stand by and watch the willful demolition of this exquisite property by way of neglect.  The Foundation filed suit on Mon., Nov. 17 in an effort to protect the precious historic resources that have been “mismanaged by the Department of Corrections.”

According to the Lake Norconian Club Foundation’s website, the lawsuit was filed in Alameda County, where the Attorney General maintains an office.  They are seeking compliance with CEQA (California Environmental Quality Act) and other historic preservation laws to avoid additional deterioration of the resort.

Furthermore, the suit seeks an injunction for the removal and safekeeping of the hotel building’s stunning historic fixtures, tapestries and artifacts currently at risk. The Foundation alludes to a very slow and painful death for the building, from the inside out; deserted behind 20-foot tall fences and locked gates, but still looming proudly with hope.

“In the dark, rainwater seeps over breathtaking paintings, chandeliers, and stunning tiles.  Raccoons and feral cats roam the empty hallways and defecate on the marble floors.”

Foundation President, Linda Dixon, states on their website, “We have tried for so many years to work cooperatively with the Department of Corrections to achieve protection of the magnificent Lake Norconian Club…It’s as if Hearst Castle were being allowed to decompose.  This must stop now.”

Lawsuits come at a price, and to help raise funding in all of its continuing efforts toward the preservation of the Lake Norconian hotel, the Foundation hosted a great fundraising event on Sat., Feb. 14 at Nellie Weaver Hall in Norco.

(Photo Courtesy: Randi Hauser) Rosa Zuniga-Green and Historic Preservation Commissioner, Denise Lynn Sutherland dressing the part at the "Moonshine & Valentines" event.

(Photo Courtesy: Randi Hauser) Rosa Zuniga-Green (Left) and Historic Preservation Commissioner, Denise Lynn Sutherland (Right) dressing the part at the “Moonshine & Valentines” event.

Taking us back to the time when the Lake Norconian Club resort opened, the “Moonshine & Valentines” 1920s Speakeasy occasion was the bee’s knees.  The atmospheric details – as organized by Diane Markham (Community Outreach and Events Coordinator for the Foundation) – were unlike any other.  From guests in full 1920s costumes to a swing band that played all night, the event made guests feel like they were back in the Roarin’ 20s.  The night concluded with stories of the Norconian Resort during the Prohibition Era from local historian, Kevin Bash.

Dixon, in an interview at the Moonshine & Valentines event, said the most important goal of the foundation is to preserve and protect the Lake Norconian hotel.

“Since 2002, we have been trying to get the roof repaired and the building mothballed until such a time there is a determination if and when the prison ever closes,” said Dixon.  “The hotel is on the national registry, and because it is on state property, they are mandated by law to mothball the building, take care of it, and preserve it.  All through these years they have allowed it to become demolished through their neglect.”

Dixon says the lawsuit is in the mediation phase night now, and it is coming along “beautifully.”

“They [Department of Corrections] know the value of the building and the historic property, so that’s where we are right now,” she continues.

When asked about the future of the hotel, Dixon waxes enthusiastically, “The goal is that the hotel will never go away.  It is part of our history; and it’s just a phenomenal history and we can’t ever, ever let that go!”

For more information, visit http://www.lakenorconianclub.org/.

Navigating The ‘Main Street Squeeze’

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy: RCTC.org

Photo Courtesy: RCTC.org

Corona – If you are one of the local commuters who travel into the perfect storm of the 15 and 91 Freeways merging with the influx of vehicles entering from Main Street on your way to work, there might be some relief in your near future.

The Corona Police Department is offering five tips to help you navigate the traffic, and perhaps make for a more enjoyable drive.

  1. Allow extra travel time. Do yourself a favor and leave for work or school a little earlier. That will help you relax and be more patient as your drive through this area.
    2. Make good driving decisions. When the road narrows, move over and get behind the car in front of you. Please don’t try to go around that car and then get stuck at the K-rail (cement barrier) up ahead. There are “No U-Turn” signs at Third St. and on Grand Blvd, so don’t try and make a U-turn. Please follow all rules of the road and be patient during this time.
    3. Pay attention. Travel conditions will be changing during the next two years. K-rails will be shifting. There may be some additional lane closures at night. Follow the signs, put down your cell phones, and please be respectful with other motorists and contractors.
    4. Know alternate routes. The eastbound on-ramp of Main Street will be closed, so use Lincoln Ave., Magnolia Ave., McKinley St. or Hidden Valley Pkwy. instead.
    5. Watch for workers and equipment. Although crews will be primarily working behind K-rails, there are exceptions. Please keep an eye out for crew members and their vehicles. Safety is paramount and we want everyone to make it home safely.

The Corona Police Department would like to reiterate that this is a temporary inconvenience that will ultimately benefit all commuters in the long run traveling through this area. Please remember that we’re all in this together.

Norco- Chili Cook-Off & Craft Beer Festival

Norco-Fire and Ice 1st Annual Chili Cook-Off and Craft Beer Festival

Norco-Fire and Ice 1st Annual Chili Cook-Off and Craft Beer Festival

Head over to Norco this Saturday for the Fire and Ice 1st Annual Chili Cook-Off & Craft Beer Festival! See the flyer for additional details.

Norco: Winter Kidz Camp

City of Norco 

norco-winter-camp-2014Ready to walk, jump and slide into a Kidz Club Winter Wonderland?  Choose from either or both weekly programs filled with themed activities, fun projects and field trips for children ages 5-12 years old to enjoy while on winter break. Camp runs Monday through Friday 7am-6pm, December 29th 2014-January 9th 2015. Cost is $100 for Norco Residents and $105 for Non-Residents for each weekly session.  Due to the holiday, the weekly session fee for the week of December 29th 2014 – January 2nd 2015 is $90 for Norco Residents and $95 for Non-Residents. Winter Kidz Camp will be closed on Thursday, January 1st 2015 for New Year ’s Day.

Winter Kidz Camp is located at 3939 Cedar Ave in Norco. For more information regarding this program please call (951) 371-5357 or visit www.norco.ca.us

 

 

 

 

 

Norco: Wee People Playschool

City of Norco

Are you looking for a safe environment where your child can grow emotionally, intellectually and socially while helping prepare them for kindergarten? Wee People Playschool does just that! The City of Norco Department of Parks, Recreation and Community Services is offering this recreational program for children ages 3-5 years old. During Wee People, children learn shapes, colors, alphabet, sight words, name recognition, cooperative play skills and manners, while exercising their fine and gross motor skills and much more.

Wee People Playschool is offered Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:30am to 1:30pm or Tuesday and Thursday from 9am to 2pm. For an 8 week session, Norco Residents fee for M/W/F session is $320 and the non-resident fee is $330. The Norco Resident fee for T/TH session is $275 and the non-resident fee is $285. Fees are subject to change. Registration is taken on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Wee People Playschool is held at the Norco Community Center located at 3900 Acacia Ave, Norco CA 92860. For more information please call (951) 272-1619 or visit www.norco.ca.us

 

 

Dr. Lin Goes To Washington

Staff Reports

 

Riverside County – The Corona-Norco Unified School District is pleased to announce that Superintendent Michael Lin, Ed.D, was selected by the U.S. Department of Education as one of 100 top school leaders across American to represent their district at the White House. This first-ever National Connected Superintendents Summit was held on Wed., Nov. 19, in Washington, D.C.

Dr. Lin was among exemplary local school chiefs who were recognized for their leadership in helping transition their districts to digital learning. This unique opportunity was another example of how CNUSD continues to be a flagship district for many endeavors that assist in providing a high quality education for all students.

“I am proud to represent CNUSD, as well as Riverside County, as one of the 100 school superintendents in the nation to lead capacity building for education technology. I believe this important endeavor begins with a solid foundation of technology infrastructure built with student achievement in mind,” said Lin.

“The CNUSD Board of Trustees has established education technology as a priority in our Local Control Accountability Plan and the community has recently validated this by passing a local school improvement bond measure,” Lin added. “I am honored and humbled by this nomination and look forward to working with the nation’s superintendents in getting our school technology ready for the future. Our goal is to continuously provide a student-centered learning that transforms teaching and approaches to instruction as evidenced by our CNUSD district portal initiative.”

Akin to the classic 1939 Capra film, “Mr. Smith Goes To Washington,” portraying one man’s effect on American politics, Dr. Lin’s nomination as one of the 100 top school leaders across America attending this important summit shows his tremendous commitment to quality education and the effect it will have on the future of our CNUSD students.

Norco: Family Fun at the Country Harvest Fair

The family fun just keeps on keepin on in Norco! The Country Harvest Fair will be held on Saturday, November 1, 2014 from 10am to 4pm. Event will be held at the Norco Community Center, 3900 Acacia Av, Norco. Country-Harvest-Fair-Norco-2014

Norco: Halloween Spooktacular Car Show & Costume Contest

Looking for some Halloween fun? Check out the Halloween Spooktacular Car Show & Costume Contest on Saturday Oct 25th, 2014 from 5-8pm. Event will be held at Bobs Big Boy, 2321 Hamner Ave, Norco, CA 92860.

Halloween-Spooktacular-Norco-2014

Corona: 7th Annual Crossroads Haunted Village

STAFF REPORTS

 

Corona – The Crossroads Haunted Village is quickly becoming one of Southern California’s top Haunted Locations. The Village is the home of three permanent Haunted Houses: The Chambers of the Mausoleum, Labyrinth of Lost Relics and The Asylum at Coffin Creek. The Crossroads Haunted Village also offers the Nightmare Harvest (haunted) Trail, and The Shady Hollow Hay Ride.

Crossroads is also excited to present the returning Pandemonium Magic Show (a 30-minute Illusion Show in an outdoor theater). Also featured will be the Dark Shadow Market, with vendors selling assorted wares, as well as food and hot/cold, non-alcoholic beverages.

There are two different ways to pay for the attractions. Single attraction tickets are available for $13, or you can purchase a haunted attraction package, good for all attractions (except the Pandemonium Magic Show) at a discounted price of $33. There is also a VIP Pass to avoid the long lines, bringing the total package cost to just $49. Pandemonium Magic Show tickets are $5; and Parking is $5 (cash only).

This delightfully haunting experience takes place Friday and Saturday nights, October 10-11; 17-18; 24-25; and Thursday night, Oct. 30, and Friday, Halloween night. The hours of each haunting are from 7 p.m. to midnight – with the Pandemonium Magic Show at 8 and 9:30 p.m. Dare to be scared at Crossroads Riverview Park, 14600 Baron Drive, in Corona. More information is available at http://www.crhaunts.com.

 

Corona Norco School District Requests New Bond

BY JENNIFER MADRIGAL

Eastvale – On August 5, the Corona-Norco School Board voted to place a $396 million bond measure on the November ballot. This bond comes just eight years after Measure U, a 30-year, $250 million bond, for which less than 17 percent of the money went directly to Eastvale. Most of the funds were used to rehab schools in Corona and Norco.

This new bond, referred to as the Corona-Norco Bond, would be used to upgrade classrooms, science labs and technology systems for career and technical education classes, including infrastructure for wireless Internet access for almost every school in the district. In addition, the bond would be used to replace or repair old roofs, plumbing, electrical, etc. Portable classrooms and security systems may also be replaced, as well as upgrades to fences, gates, classroom locks and outdoor lights.

But what does this mean for Eastvale? How do we ensure that our schools get their fair share of the bond money as opposed to the mere 17 percent Eastvale schools received in 2006? At a school bond discussion meeting a few months back with various members of the community and CNUSD Superintendent, Michael Lin, councilmember William Link expressed this very concern.

“As a councilmember representing this City, I expressed my concern that any money paid by Eastvale residents toward the bond needs to be kept in Eastvale Schools. Once I received a copy of the bond I forwarded it on to our City Attorney, John Cavanaugh, to review and really make sure that the verbiage is clear and accurate.”

Many in Eastvale feel that our schools did not get their fair share of the last bond, especially when Eastvale residents pay such high taxes. On a recent Facebook group discussion, Eastvale Resident Lisett Beytia said, “I will be voting NO. I don’t think the school district has really shown how my bond money has benefited the Eastvale schools. I know it’s selfish, but if I’m paying extra taxes for schools I want the money to stay in Eastvale.
”

CNUSD board member, Bill Newberry, who was not on the board during the 2006 Measure U Bond vote, would also like to ensure that bond money paid by Eastvale residents stays in Eastvale.

“I have been in meetings with bond attorneys, tax attorneys, bonding companies, our District’s legal staff, and I have ensured, as Bill Link said, that in the legal Bond Resolution it will stipulate that the money raised in each community of our district will be spent in that community of our district. I will make certain that a legal document is made available to anyone. This bond will ask for $24 per $100,000 of Assessed Value, so in Eastvale approximately $96 per year.”

One of the biggest items that the new bond could affect is the overcrowding of Eleanor Roosevelt High School. According to Newberry, ERHS will reach capacity by the 2015-2016 school year. If the bond passes, one of the biggest items and most expensive projects would be the proposed Academy/Magnet High School to be located in the back of the High School parking lot. The new school would be geared toward high end Science, Technology, Engineering, and Medicine academics and house approximately 800 students.

As more information comes out about the bond, one thing is certain, do your homework. Stay informed, ask questions and really read what you are voting for. For more information about school bonds check out CNUSD’s website at thttp://www.cnusd.k12.ca.us.

 

Norco: Car Show and Sock Hop August 9th

Join the fun at Rock Around Norco! Car Show & Sock Hop on Saturday August 9th, 2014.

The car show is from 3pm-6om at the Bob’s Big Boy parking lot at 3521 Hamner Blvd. and the Sock Hop is 7pm-10pm at the Riley Gymnasium Plaza, 3950 Acacia Ave, Norco.

The family event is presented by the City of Norco, Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services and Bob’s Big Boy. Proceeds benefit the George A. Ingalls Veteran’s Memorial Plaza.

For more information call 951-270-5632 or visit http://www.norco.ca.us.

rock-around-norco-2014

NORCO: Illegal Marijuana Grow House Bust

INFO. COURTESY OF RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT.

 

Israel Martinez

Israel Martinez

Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez

Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez

NORCO-On July 18, 2014, about 1:30 p.m., members of the Riverside Sheriff’s Special Investigation Bureau, along with deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office, served a search warrant in the 3700 block of California Avenue, in the city of Norco. The search warrant was the result of an investigation into an illegal outdoor marijuana grow at the location. During the search warrant service over 400 marijuana plants were located and seized.

The subsequent investigation resulted in the arrest of two adult suspects, identified as Israel Martinez, age 49, and Wilivaldo Arteaga Martinez, age 34, residents from the city of Ontario. They were each booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center (RPDC) for marijuana cultivation and conspiracy charges.

The Norco Sheriff’s Office is committed to the safety of the citizens of Norco and is vigilant in combating crime. Anyone with information about this case can contact Deputies Robles or Ghiliotty at (951) 270-5673.

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

NORCO: Vehicle Theft Suspects Arrested

INFO. COURTESY RIVERSIDE SHERIFF’S DEPT.

Julie Stewart

Julie Stewart

Tayler Jenkins

Tayler Jenkins

On Tuesday, July 15, 2014, about 11:45 a.m., deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Station, Norco Sheriff’s Office, responded to the 2200 block of Vista Ridge in the city of Norco. This was in reference to a stolen vehicle investigation. Upon arriving, deputies located the stolen vehicle parked in the driveway of a residence. As the deputies continued with their investigation, they were able to locate and identify the suspects, who were found hiding in the residence.

The following suspects were arrested and booked into Robert Presley Detention Center:

Lawrence Piper – 30 years old – Possession of stolen property, burglary, & two felony warrants for Parole Violations.
Julie Stewart – 28 years old – Possession of stolen property, burglary, & a felony warrant for possession of controlled substance.
Tayler Jenkins – 23 years old – Possession of methamphetamine & Violation of probation.
The Norco Sheriff’s Office is committed to the safety of the citizens of Norco and is vigilant in combating crime. Anyone with information about this case can contact Deputy Nicholas Padilla #2781 at 951-270-5673.

Norco: Sheriff’s Deputies Arrest Three for Felony Charges during Crosswalk Safety Operation

Norco Sheriff’s Office Press Release
June 23, 2014
Sergeant Christian Dekker

On Monday, June 23, 2014, Deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office conducted an operation at the intersection of Hamner Avenue and 6th Street in the city of Norco, in response to traffic safety related complaints. “We had such an outpour of community support for our last crosswalk operation in April; that we decided to do another one.” Lieutenant Daniel Hedge said. “Many people within the Norco Community have voiced their frustration with the blatant disregard some drivers have for others safety.”

The main focus of the operation was to identify motorists who failed to yield to the pedestrian deputy in the crosswalk (Vehicle Code Section 21950(a)). The pedestrian deputy and the safety companion deputy would call out the observed violation over the radio to uniformed deputies staged nearby. The uniformed deputies would then conduct enforcement stops, contact the driver of the vehicle and issue citations.

While conducting the operation, deputies contacted three subjects who were subsequently arrested for felony charges. The following people were arrested and booked into Robert Presley Detention Center:

  1. Gonzalo Hurtado – 22 years old – Possession of controlled substance and violation of probation.
  2. Joseph Rosales – 26 years old – Possession of controlled substance and violation of probation.
  3. Gustavo Chavez – 23 years old – Felony warrant for possession of stolen property.

The following are the results of the crosswalk safety operation:

  • 50 Citations were issue (Fail to Yield for Pedestrian/ Red Light/Grid Lock/ Cell Phone)
  • 1 Arrest for Unlicensed Driver
  • 1 Vehicle Impounded
  • 1 Arrested on a Felony Warrant
  • 2 Suspects arrested for illegal drugs (possession/transportation/sales)

It should be noted that many motorists yielded for the pedestrian in the crosswalk, which is to be commended. The Norco Sheriff’s Office plans to conduct additional operations in the near future.