Category Archives: News By City

Walnut Valley USD Trustees Elect New Officers

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Congratulations, Madam President! WVUSD Board President Dr. Tony Torng passes the gavel to Cindy Ruiz who was elected 2018 Board President during the December 13 meeting.

Pass the Gavel!

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT–The Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) Board of Trustees elected Cindy Ruiz as president, Larry Redinger as vice president, and Helen Hall as clerk during the annual reorganization meeting on December 13.

These roles are one-year terms and effective immediately.

Trustee Dr. Tony Torng was honored with an engraved plaque for his outstanding leadership as the 2017 Board president.

“I’d like to thank Dr. Torng for his wonderful service this past year as president and welcome back Mrs. Cindy Ruiz as president. We’re looking forward to a great next year!” said Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Photo courtesy: Kelli Gile
Outgoing Board President Dr. Tony Torng is honored during the annual reorganization meeting on December 13. Shown with trustees Larry Redinger, Cindy Ruiz, and Helen Hall.

The WVUSD Board of Trustees usually meet the first and third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m. at the District Education Center Board Room located at 880 S. Lemon Avenue in Walnut.  Please visit the website at www.wvusd.k12.ca.us or call the District Office at (909) 595-1261 to confirm exact dates, times, and location for meetings.

 

Man Killed After SUV Crashes Into Tree In Chino Hills

Courtesy: Google Images

By Anthony Saude

Chino Hills – A 74-year-old man was pronounced dead at the scene of an accident when his Honda Pilot SUV crashed into a tree on Wednesday, December 20, in Chino Hills. The 73-year-old passenger in the vehicle escaped with only minor injuries.  The SUV crashed into the tree — which fell over and blocked both lanes of the Chino Hills Parkway, the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department said.

It reported that investigators believe that Felipe Rustia, of Chino Hills, was driving southbound on Chino Hills parkway when drove over a raised cement center divider and into a tree on the divider. The accident took place just south of Walnut Creek Drive. The Passenger Noel Rustia, 73, also of Chino Hills was a passenger in the vehicle; she was transported to a local hospital via ambulance with only minor injuries, the police report said.

The release said that, the incident was reported just before 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday. When deputies arrived on the scene they found the SUV had sustained serious front-end damage. The tree was also down, blocking the northbound and southbound lanes of Chino Hills Parkway.

Rustia crossed Walnut Creek Drive and for an unknown reason, drove over the cement divider and hit a large tree in the grass area, the release said.

Chino Hills Parkway between Grand Avenue and Walnut Creek Drive was closed until 6:30 am on Thursday the cause of the accident is still be determined.

Anyone with information on this incident is encouraged to call the sheriff’s Office at the Chino Hills Station at 909-364-2000.

Get ROOTED with Shannon Scheller

Nutritional Therapy Practitioner & HoliRooted Wellness Founder, Shannon Scheller.
Photo Courtesy: MaxLove

Staff Reports

Shannon Scheller is a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner (NTP) and she is the founder of HoliRooted Wellness.  Shannon’s goal as a NTP is to help educate you on the simple changes you can make in your life that will affect the health of you and your family.  She strives to help you reduce your toxic load in daily products and food, as well as restore proper function within your body.  Shannon can help you and your family get ROOTED in a holistic approach to fuel your body for battle and support optimal levels of vitality. 

“I am passionate about empowering others with education about the simple changes you can make to improve cellular function, create a healthy home environment, and help your family thrive!” says Scheller. 

Shannon’s desire to help others started when her daughter was diagnosed with cancer.  “When my daughter was diagnosed 2 years ago, I felt powerless as the Doctors told me there was nothing I could do and that every calorie is a GOOD calorie.  My mommy powers were completely gone until I focused on nutrition and overall wellness,” said Scheller.  “She thrived through treatment due to supporting proper cellular function and reducing toxic load.”  Now, Shannon is happy to report that her daughter is 1 ½ years cancer free! 

After her daughter’s treatment, Shannon completed her education to become a Nutritional Therapy Practitioner, and she continues to stay informed of new research to this day.  She wants to educate and empower others to take their health back.  “Every calorie DOES matter, let me teach you why!” says Scheller.  

Booking a Nutritional Therapy Consultation with Shannon will allow you to receive a health history analysis, a 3-day food and mood journal evaluation, a signs and symptoms analysis and 2 support calls to walk you through this journey.  “Together we map out a plan of lifestyle and dietary recommendations that will support the overall function and health of your body,” said Scheller. 

However, Nutritional Therapy is more than learning how to eat healthy.  “I address your top health concerns by looking into nutritional deficiencies, dysfunction or any imbalance you may have.  You are individually unique even down to your microbiome,” says Scheller. 

Shannon will do a deep investigation into your signs and symptoms to help her understand the healing nutrients you need.  “This will allow us to get to the ROOT cause,” Scheller said. 

“I also love to empower and educate on all things holistic,” added Scheller.  Shannon is passionate about educating on nutrition, essential oils, detoxification methods, and especially how to reduce the toxins within your home.  “These are my driving force!  Let me teach you how to create a life of vitality!” said Scheller.  

Visit www.holirootedwellness.com today to sign up for an amazing deal on a Nutritional Therapy Consultation.  However, on top of that already great deal, Shannon is offering an even BIGGER discount for a limited time only.  Get 30% off when you type in the code ROOTED30. 

Shannon’s website also includes a link to her blog, where you can read the following articles: Healthy Holiday Gift Guide; How to Support Healthy Breast Tissue; and How to Support Someone Whose Child Was Just Diagnosed With Cancer. 

Chino Council Topples Estates Project

By Anthony Saude

Chino – The tension during the December 19 City Council meeting was so thick you could cut it with a knife, the holiday season did nothing to dissipate the feeling.

A proposed development of 43 single-story, ranch style homes on the corner of Francis and Yorba avenues was on the agenda and it had already been denied by the Chino Planning Commission by a 3-2 vote on December 4. The developer of the Francis Estates, Borstein Enterprises was there to appeal the decision, requesting the zoning be changed from 2 units per acre to 3.6 units per acre. Eriik Pfahler, senior vice president of Borstein Enterprises was reported as saying, “we aren’t going to build on 20,000 square foot lots, It just doesn’t make financial sense”.

The proposed development is located in an unincorporated part of San Bernardino County that falls into the Chino sphere of influence. The city would annex the parcel of land in to the city so it could be connected to the city’s sewer system.

The developer went to the council hoping that they would reverse the previous decision by the planning commission only to be rejected again. The council vote was a tie, Mayor Ulloa and councilman Gary George voted against the project. Councilman Paul Rodriquez and mayor pro tem Tom Haughey voted for the project. Councilman Earl Elrod was absent from the meeting so without a majority vote to overturn the previous decision the decision to deny the project stood.

Mayor Ulloa was reported as saying that to vote to overturn the decision for such a tiny area just doesn’t make sense to her.

 

Chino Partners with Waste Management

City of Chino

City of Chino

Chino – The City of Chino in partnership with Waste Management is proud to announce new commercial waste programs and service enhancements.

Effective as of January 1, 2018, Chino commercial customers will be billed by Waste Management directly, offering on point of contact for both customer service and billing. As part of the transition, residents will receive two bills for waste and recycling services in the month of January, which will cover trash service for December 2017. Customers will also receive a bill from Waste Management in Jamuary which will cover service for January 2018. This is the only time commercial customers will receive two bills in one month for trash services.

Moving forward, commercial customers will receive a monthly trash bill from Waste Management. If you have any questions regarding the transition, please feel free to contact the City’s Utility Billing Department at (909)334-3264. After the January billing transition, commercial trash service information will no longer appear on your City utility bill. Additionally, the City will no longer have access to your commercial billing statements and you will need to contact Waste Management directly at (800)423-9986, for bill inquiries and changes to your commercial service.

Pictures are examples of what your City of City of Chino bill will look like and what your NEW Waste Management bill will look like.

Automation And Robotics Course Launches At Suzanne

Photo courtesy: WVUSD

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—A new class at Suzanne Middle School is teaching students how the world around them works while learning important skills such as team work, problem-solving, and a don’t-give-up attitude.

Seventh graders have the opportunity to take Robotics and Automation, as part of the District’s STEAM initiative.

The new course is one of several Project Lead The Way (PLTW) classes offered to students from elementary through high school.

Students learn about 11 mechanisms, the assemblies that control motion, and how they are used. Mechanisms include chain drive, bevel gear, lead screw, rack and pinion, etc.

“They are used in every single project,” said teacher Vicky Silcock.

“Students learn what they’re used for, how they work, and how they rotate.”

The group put their new skills to the test in a survival challenge last week.

Students had to imagine they were the last survivors on Earth with no running water, electricity, and barely any food.

Using VEX robotics parts, they built windmills complete with a wood-cutting saw, water pump, and grain grinder to ensure their survival.

The project has a real-world application so they can see when and how it is used.

“Project Lead the Way is cool!” said Kingsley Tang, age 12.

Students navigate their way through gear and drive ratios, reciprocating motion for water pumps, installing tiny input cranks to turn axles on chain drives, output gears that allow windmill blades to rotate clockwise, and more.

“I look forward to this class every day,” said Mehki Lin while installing a water pump feature.

“I like working with the tools!”

This is not a class where the teacher gives the answer.

Silcock provides guidance, but students must work to solve the challenges on their own.

“There’s a lot of trial and error during the engineering design process,” the technology teacher said.

Students collaborate and problem solve, and then document their findings in notebooks.

There are no textbooks and instruction is computer-based in the PLTW class.

“We can see a finished product (on the website), but we have to figure out how to get there,” said classmate Robert McCormick.

Ian Ceballos utilized a mechanism, gear, and chain drive while working on a pull toy challenge.

“I think this class is preparing us for the future,” he said.

“We use our imagination. It’s a little challenging, but we figure out things on our own.”

The class recently created a prototype for a foot orthosis for a child with cerebral palsy during an instant design challenge.

“It was challenging, but we knew it would help other people,” McCormick said.

 

 

Vandalism at Pacos Tacos

By Anthony Saude

Paco’s Tacos had the glass front door broken in at approximately midnight on Saturday December 16 according to Juan the manager. “Whoever broke the glass did it just to vandalize the place, nothing was stolen or broken” said Juan. “We have an alarm so we we knew we had a break in when it was happening on Saturday night.” We were open for business and the glass was replaced in time to be open Sunday morning” Juan said.

Paco’s Tacos is a little taco shop with a large menu located on 1131 S Brea Canyon Rd in Walnut. It can prove difficult to find authentic Mexican food in the city but stop by Paco’s if you are looking for good food at an old school price. The service is friendly and fast, the food is very good and the menu selection has something for everyone.

It isn’t the first time that somebody has vandalized the Paco’s without stealing anything, “they just like to break the window and then they don’t take anything” said Juan. “We did file a police report just like we always do” said Juan.

If you have any information in reference to this please contact Juan or the Walnut/Diamond Bar sheriff’s station.

New Charter School Accepted

By Anthony Saude

 

Chino – Allegiance STEAM Academy Thrive Charter School was voted into the district by the Chino Valley school board last week. There were some mixed emotions as evidenced by the board’s narrow 3-2 vote to accept Superintendent Wayne Joseph’s recommendation to approve the charter school. Allegiance STEAM Academy was only granted 2 years initially and was given a list of conditions that will need to be met by specific deadlines, the first of which is due sometime this week. The initial approval of two years will begin on July 1, 2018 and will run through to June 30, 2020.

It was reported that before the vote that Irene Hernandez-Blair spoke and said that it could “be risky to the taxpayers of Chino Valley”.  A district report shows that the school had insufficient cash flow and reserves and there are also concerns about the amount of training the teachers have received in specialized math, science and technology programs that the charter promised to have in their petition.           The new school will be located at the former Oxford Preparatory Academy Charter School campus  on C street in Chino. Originally it was the site where El Rancho Elementary was located; Oxford was closed down by the district last year. Allegiance STEAM Academy will have a dress code and tuition will not be required to attend the school.

Parent participation gave some of the board members confidence that the school would be successful but the conditional tasks will need to be met by their deadlines or they won’t move forward. New board president Pamela Feix says she doesn’t see any difference between what the charter is offering and the other schools in the district offer.

In recent years the school board has closed down 3 public schools. Oxford Preparatory Academy Charter School was also closed just last year. Maybe Allegiance will redeem the past sins of the school board of closing those schools and it could help the community heal some of those wounds.

Here We Grow Again

Staff Reports

Project: Goodman Commerce Center (formally Lewis Eastvale Commerce Center)

190 acres on Hamner Ave. north of Bellegrave Ave. and south of CantuGalleano Ranch Road Project

Description: Specific Plan to provide for a mix of warehousing, light industrial, office, and retail uses.Major Development Review for the development of two industrial buildings.

Latest News: Multi-Tenant Retail Building CR-3 Major Development Review and Conditional Use Permit

Current Status: Approved. Under construction

 

Project: Walmart – Eastvale Crossings

Project Location: Southeast corner of Limonite and Archibald Avenues (APN 144-030-039) Project Description: General Plan Amendment, Change of Zone, Major Development Review, five Conditional Use Permits, Tentative Tract Map No. 35061, and Variance for the development of a 177,000 +/-sq. ft. retail store and several outparcels on 24.78 acres. CEQA: Environmental Impact Report (certified)

Current Status: Approved. 2nd reading for Change of Zone Ordinance on May 10, 2017

 

Project: 99 Cents Only Store

Project Location: Northwest corner of Hamner Avenue and “new” Schleisman Road

Project Description: Major Development for a new 19,104-square foot retail building on 2.67 acres. CEQA: Mitigated Negative Declaration Grading permit issued on May 4, 2017.

Current Status: Approved. Construction of the building is under way. Stop Work Order issued by Building & Safety on August 24, 2017 due to no water connection or fire hydrant installations while building with combustible materials.

 

Project: Sendero Planned Residential Development by Stratham Homes

Project Location: Northwest corner of Limonite and Harrison Avenues; APN 164-010- 017 Project Description: General Plan Amendment, Change of Zone, Planned Residential Development, and Tentative Tract Map No. 36775 for the subdivision of approximately 44 acres into 323 residential lots and 14 lots for open space and water basins CEQA: Mitigated Negative Declaration (MND)

Current Status: Approved. Planning approved grading plans. Fences and walls plans approved on August 19, 2017. Landscape comments to applicant on August 21, 2017.

 

Project: The Ranch Specific Plan Amendment, Major Development Review, and Tentative Parcel Map

Project Location: Northeast and southeast corners of Hellman and future Limonite (Kimball) Avenues, west of Cucamonga Creek Channel.

Meeting with applicant on October 18, 2017 to discuss status of commercial portion of The Ranch, Planning Area 1.

Current Status: Approved. Grading and construction has started for industrial portion Applicant is still pursuing commercial and business park users. Some inquiries include self-storage and smaller multi-tenant business park suites.

 

 

Project Location: Northeast corner of Limonite and Sumner Avenues

Description: Major Development Review for the development of a new neighborhood retail centerwith multi-tenant and single tenant buildings totaling 72,779 sq. ft. on 7.64 acres, Conditional Use Permits for the operation of three drive-through facilities and a tire store, and Conditional Use Permit for the sales of alcohol in the grocery store. CEQA: Mitigated Negative Declaration

Current Status: Approved. Under construction Smart and Final opened on August 23, 2017. Miguel’s Jr. major development review continued to November 15, 2017 Planning Commission meeting (see Project PLN17-20022)

 

Project: LBA Realty Industrial Building

Project Location: North of Cantu-Galleano Ranch Road, 1,000 feet east of Hamner Avenue, and west of the I-15 freeway. (APN 160-020-033 and 156-050-025)

Project Description: Major Development Review for a 446,173-sq.ft. industrial building on approximately 24 acres and overflow parking on APN 156-050-025. CEQA: Environmental Impact Report (certified)

Current Status: Approved. Under construction.

 

Project: The Ranch Specific Plan Amendment, Major Development Review, and Tentative Parcel Map

Project Map: Current Status: Approved. Grading and construction has started for industrial portion, see

Portion Project Location: Northeast and southeast corners of Hellman and future Limonite (Kimball) Avenues, west of Cucamonga Creek Channel. Moons Site (APNs: 144-010-008-0, 144-101-013-4) and Rodriguez Site (APN: 144-010-009-1)

Project Description: Specific Plan Amendment to modify existing boundaries for The Ranch SP No. 358 for Planning Areas 1 through 6, land use designation for Planning Area 5, and revisions to allowable uses. No revisions to Planning Areas 7 through 9. Major Development Review for six (6) industrial buildings totaling 985,000 square feet on six (6) parcels, Tentative Parcel Map No. 36787 to subdivide approximately 97 gross acres into 14 legal parcels CEQA: EIR Addendum

Current Status: Approved. Grading and construction has started for industrial portion, see Project No. PLN 16- 00011. Applicant is still pursuing commercial and business park users. Some inquiries include self-storage and smaller multi-tenant business park suites.

Food Drive Brings in 8,000 Donations

By Kelli Gile

Walnut —Walnut High Key Club members counted, sorted, and boxed more than 8,000 cans of food stored under the stadium bleachers, and now those cans are filling pantries in local homes and food banks.

Donations of canned vegetables, beans, soup, meats, and other staple foods poured in during the two-week Yes We Can compassion project. “The kids were bringing in cans every morning while I was coming in to work,” said Key Club advisor Justin Panlilio who has headed up the project for the past seven years.

“It put me in a good mood knowing so many needy families will have food during the holidays,” he said.

Donations doubled, up from 4,000 last year, during the 50th annual food drive held in partnership with Kiwanis of Walnut Valley, Panlilio reported.

One reason was a new collaboration with Diamond Bar High’s Key Club that brought in several hundred additional donations. The schools came together to show their compassion for helping the community.

“We thought it was a good idea to get both schools involved,” Panlilio said. Walnut High’s Key Club also hosted a class competition to boost donations, offering a pizza party to the winning class.

It worked, Kellee Lyons’ English class brought in over 550 cans.

In addition, Panlilio led an a capella choir benefit concert on December 10 with free admission for a canned food donation. On Saturday, December 16, about 35 Walnut High and Kiwanis Club volunteers gathered at 7 a.m. to distribute the food. “I think it’s insane that we have 8,000 cans this year!” commented senior Nathan Lin, one of the 30 cabinet members charged with organizing volunteers for the project.

The teens worked in unison while loading 200 packed cardboard boxes as several cars and trucks arrived on campus. In total, about 90 local families will receive two boxes with about 50-pounds of canned food, a large frozen turkey, fresh vegetables, and fruit.

“This project is about helping people in our community. We couldn’t do it without the kids!” said Ray McMullen, a 53-year Kiwanis charter member.

“This is one of the best things I do. It just makes me feel good!” shared Kiwanis member Ralph Mendez.

“I grew up in a big family with six kids and we were always taught to give back.”

The 350-member Walnut High Key Club will next be decorating Rose Parade floats and hosting an InterKey dinner fundraiser to benefit a pediatric trauma program.

Before the distribution day, Key Club volunteers put in many hours organizing and packing donations at the bleacher storage area, known as the dungeon.

“I can say without a doubt that everyone has a heart to help,” Lin said. Sophomore Jasper Wang showed up on Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. What was his motivation?

“When they get a knock on the door and get a box delivered, you can just see the happiness on their faces,” he said.

 

Avoiding Apartment Rental Scams

By Walnut/DB Sheriff’s Department


Diamond Bar– Rent prices in California have been skyrocketing this past year. The last thing anyone needs during these trying times is to lose money to a con artist.

The Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Department has offered the following tips when looking for apartments to avoid rental scams.

Finding an apartment can often be time consuming and emotionally frustrating. Time constraints and financial considerations can often place the apartment seeker in a vulnerable position where they can fall prey to Apartment Rental Scammers.
While Apartment Rental Scams come in a variety of schemes, they basically boil down to two types: Either the scammer has no authority to offer an existing apartment for rent or the scammer is trying to rent a fictitious apartment. In either case, the goal of the scammer is to get the victim to pay money upfront for a list of available apartments in the area or to arrange the rental of a particular apartment.
The following tips from Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information Page: Rental Listing Scams:
How Rental Scams Work
Scammers know that finding the right apartment or vacation rental can be hard work, and a seemingly good deal is hard to pass up. They’ve been known to game some vacation rental websites and bulletin boards. The take-away: when you’re looking for a rental, its caveat renter renter beware.
Hijacked Ads
Some scammers hijack a real rental or real estate listing by changing the email address or other contact information, and placing the modified ad on another site. The altered ad may even use the name of the person who posted the original ad. In other cases, scammers have hijacked the email accounts of property owners on reputable vacation rental websites.
Phantom Rentals
Other rip-off artists make up listings for places that aren’t for rent or don’t exist, and try to lure you in with the promise of low rent, or great amenities. Their goal is to get your money before you find out.
Signs of a Scam
Being savvy when you’re in search of a rental is well worth the effort. Here are some signs you may be dealing with a scam:
They tell you to wire money
This is the surest sign of a scam. There’s never a good reason to wire money to pay a security deposit, application fee, first month’s rent, or vacation rental fee. That’s true even if they send you a contract first. Wiring money is the same as sending cash once you send it, you have no way to get it back.
They want a security deposit or first month’s rent before you’ve met or signed a lease. It’s never a good idea to send money to someone you’ve never met in person for an apartment you haven’t seen. If you can’t visit an apartment or house yourself, ask someone you trust to go and confirm that it’s for rent, and that it is what was advertised. In addition to setting up a meeting, do a search on the owner and listing. If you find the same ad listed under a different name, that’s a clue it may be a scam.
They say they’re out of the country
But they have a plan to get the keys into your hands. It might involve a lawyer or an “agent” working on their behalf. Some scammers even create fake keys. Don’t send money to them overseas. If you can’t meet in person, see the apartment, or sign a lease before you pay, keep looking. What if the rental itself is overseas? Paying with a credit card or through a reputable vacation rental website with its own payment system are your safest bets.
How to Report Scams
If you find yourself the target of a rental scam, report it to your local law enforcement agency and to the FTC. Contact the website where the ad was posted, too.

Eastvale Area Crime Recap: November 2017

Staff Reports 

INCIDENT: Deputy Involved Shooting

Incident Date: December 4, 2017

Incident Location: Bellegrave Avenue and Van Buren, Jurupa Valley

Reporting Officer: Sergeant Chris Willison – Public Information Officer

File Number: JV173380070

On Monday, December 4, 2017, at approximately 12:00 PM, a deputy from the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station responded to the area of Bellegrave Avenue and Van Buren, in the city of Jurupa Valley, reference a previously reported stolen vehicle.  The deputy responded to the area, located the occupied stolen vehicle, and attempted to conduct a traffic enforcement stop.Details:

During the traffic stop, the suspect reversed the stolen vehicle into the patrol unit several times and a deputy involved shooting occurred.  A vehicle pursuit ensued, and a short distance later, the suspect exited the vehicle and fled into the river bottom area near Riverdale Place.  During that time, the suspect ignited the stolen vehicle as well as vegetation in the river bottom.  Cal-Fire/Riverside County Fire responded and assisted Riverside City Fire with the vegetation fire.  Fire personnel continue to work on extinguishing the fire.

With the assistance of the Riverside Police Department, the suspect was located, a brief struggle ensued, and the suspect was arrested.  Two officers with the Riverside Police Department sustained minor injuries as a result of this arrest.  The suspect was transported to a local area hospital for a medical evaluation.  No citizens were injured during the incident.  The deputy involved in the incident was taken to a local area hospital as a medical precaution.  Investigators from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Departments Central Homicide Unit responded and assumed the investigation.

The suspect was identified as Clinton Althizer, 40 of Jurupa Valley.  After receiving a medical evaluation he was booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center, in the city of Riverside, for assault with a deadly weapon on a peace officer, vehicle theft, possession of stolen property, attempted assault on a peace officer, evading, and arson.

The deputy involved in the shooting has been placed on administrative leave per Department policy. The involved deputy’s names will not be released at this time.  The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department encourages anyone with information regarding the incident to contact Central Homicide Unit Investigator Stoyer at (951) 955-2777.

 

 INCIDENT: VEHICLE THEFT ARREST OF WANTED GANG MEMBER

WHEN: 11/28/2017

WHERE: 5000 Block of Poinsettia Place, Jurupa Valley

On Tuesday, November 28, 2017, about 4:06 p.m., officers from the Region 7, Riverside County Regional Gang Task Force conducted a traffic enforcement stop on a reported stolen vehicle in the 5000 Block of Poinsettia Place, in the City of Jurupa Valley. During the subsequent theft investigation, officers learned a wanted criminal street gang member was in possession of additional stolen vehicles in the Jurupa Valley area. Regional Gang Task Force officers located and contacted Levi Aguirre, a 22-year-old resident of Jurupa Valley, in the 5000 block of Collins Avenue. Aguirre was being sought for two active felony vehicle theft warrants in San Bernardino County.  The on-going vehicle theft investigation linked Levi Aguirre to two additional stolen vehicles.  Aguirre was arrested and booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center for the following charges: Two outstanding felony vehicle theft warrants out of San Bernardino County, Three Vehicle Thefts in Riverside County, Vehicle theft with several prior convictions, Felony probation violation.

 

INCIDENT: FATAL TRAFFIC COLLISION INVESTIGATION

WHEN: 11/17/2017

WHERE: Galena Ave. & Avon St., Jurupa Valley

On Friday, November 17, 2017 at 5:23 p.m., officers assigned to the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to the area of Galena Avenue and Avon Street, regarding a major-injury traffic collision.  The preliminary investigation revealed a vehicle traveling westbound on Galena Avenue stuck a pedestrian who was crossing Galena Avenue, just west of Avon Street. The pedestrian was pronounced deceased on scene by paramedics.  This investigation is ongoing, but alcohol and/or drug impairment does not appear to be a factor in this collision.The Jurupa Valley Police Department’s Traffic Collision Reconstruction Team responded to the scene to conduct this investigation.  This investigation is ongoing and we are asking anyone with additional information to contact Deputy Adam Ditfurth at the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600

 

INCIDENT: GRAND THEFT

WHEN: 11/2/2017

WHERE: 4200 Block of Opal St., Jurupa Valley

DETAILS: On November 2, 2017, several cameras were stolen from the audio/video department of Rubidoux High School. The theft was reported by school staff to the School Resource Officer. On November 10, 2017, a member of the school’s staff contacted Sheriff’s Dispatch reporting they located one of the cameras for sale on the internet. The Jurupa Valley Station’s Special Enforcement Team assumed the investigation and recovered one of the reported stolen cameras. The camera was returned to the school. On November 17, 2017, between 10:00 AM and 1:00 PM, search warrants were served in the 6200 block of Jared Circle and 3900 block of Driving Range Road, in the city of Jurupa Valley. Evidence associated with the theft and sale of the stolen cameras were recovered during the service of the search warrants. The cameras were sold utilizing cellular phones applications that advertise goods for sale. The cameras were described as Canon EOS Rebel T5i, DSLR with lenses and battery chargers. We are asking the public for assistance in recovering the remaining stolen cameras. If you purchased a Canon EOS Rebel T5i DSLR camera using a web based application, between November 2, 2017 and November 17, 2017, please contact Deputy Gilbert at the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station at 951-955-2600. The investigation will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s Office recommending the two fifteen-year-old juveniles be prosecuted for the thefts of the stolen cameras.  Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact Deputy Gilbert of the Jurupa Valley Special Enforcement Team at 951-955-2600, or by submitting a tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTips online form.

 

INCIDENT: FATAL TRAFFIC COLLISION INVESTIGATION

WHEN: 11/14/2017

WHERE: Rubidoux Blvd & Market St., Jurupa Valley

DETAILS: On Tuesday, November 14, 2017, at 9:17 p.m., officers assigned to the Jurupa Valley Police Department responded to the area of Rubidoux Blvd. and Market St., Jurupa Valley, regarding a major-injury traffic collision. The preliminary investigation revealed a vehicle traveling southbound on Rubidoux Blvd., drifted into oncoming traffic, colliding with vehicles traveling northbound on Rubidoux Blvd.  The single occupant of the vehicle that drifted into oncoming traffic was pronounced deceased on scene by paramedics. One of the occupants from another involved vehicle was transported to a local area hospital for medical evaluation and treatment.  This investigation is ongoing, but alcohol and/or drug impairment does not appear to be a factor in this collision. The Jurupa Valley Police Department’s Traffic Collision Reconstruction Team responded to the scene to conduct this investigation.  This investigation is ongoing and we are asking anyone with additional information to contact Deputy Robles at the Jurupa Valley Station at 951-955-2600.

 

INCIDENT: MAIL THEFT/IDENTITY THEFT/ CONSPIRACY

WHEN: 11/9/2017

WHERE: 6300 Block of Valley Way, Jurupa Valley

DETAILS: On November 9, 2017, around 6:30 PM, deputies assigned to the Jurupa Valley Special Enforcement Team were on patrol in the 6300 block of Valley Way in the city of Jurupa Valley. They contacted several subjects loitering in the parking lot of a business. During this encounter, stolen mail and evidence related to identity theft was located. The subjects were all detained for further investigation and later booked into the Robert Presley detention Center for the following charges:

  • Danny Curtis Bennett, 33-year-old resident of Jurupa Valley, Under the Influence
  • Lisa Ann Haring, 26-year-old resident of Jurupa Valley, Parole Violation, Conspiracy and Identity Theft
  • John Anthony Morgan, 56-year-old resident of Upland, Probation Violation, Conspiracy and Identity Theft

 

 

Danny Curtis Bennett     Lisa Ann Haring          John Anthony Morgan

Anyone with information regarding this investigation is encouraged to contact Deputy Hood of the Jurupa Valley Special Enforcement Team at 951-955-2600, or by submitting a tip using the Sheriff’s CrimeTipsonline form.

 

INCIDENT: INDOOR MARIJUANA CULTIVATION/ THEFT OF UTILITIES

WHEN: 11/8/2017

WHERE: 7800 Block of Shoreham St., Eastvale

DETAILS: On November 8, 2017, at 4:00 PM, members of the Jurupa Valley Station’s Special Enforcement Team, served a search warrant in the 7800 block of Shoreham Street in the city of Eastvale.  Evidence of illegal marijuana cultivation along with an electrical bypass to steal electricity were located inside of the residence.  Xian Long Zhang, a 77-year-old resident of New York, was arrested and booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center for cultivation of marijuana and theft of utilities.  Anyone with information regarding this case is urged to contact Deputy James Herington at the Jurupa Valley Sheriff’s Station, (951) 955-2600.

Xian Long Zhang

 

INCIDENT: HOIST RESCUE

WHEN: 11/5/2017

WHERE: Tin Mine Canyon, Corona

DETAILS: On Sunday, November 5, 2017, at 12:02 PM, deputies from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Jurupa Valley Station responded to the Tin Mine Canyon in Corona reference a family which had become stranded in steep terrain in the area.  Due to the location and terrain, it was determined a hoist rescue would be the most appropriate rescue method. Personnel from the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Jurupa Valley Station, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department Aviation Unit, and the Riverside Mountain Rescue Unit responded to assist.  A hoist rescue was initiated, and the family was safely escorted to the Skyline Drive Trailhead.  No injuries were sustained as a result of this incident. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department would like to remind hiking enthusiasts to carry proper equipment for any outdoor excursion.  Proper preparedness includes a well-thought-out travel plan shared with friends and family, as well as familiarity with common hiking equipment, such as GPS, maps and compasses.  RMRU offers several helpful, life-saving tips at their website (www.rmru.org ).  Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact the Jurupa Valley Station at (951) 955-2600.

 

INCIDENT: COMMERCIAL BURGLARY

WHEN: 11/2/2017

WHERE: 100 Block of Hidden Valley, Norco

DETAILS: On Thursday, November 2, 2017, about 3:56 a.m., deputies from the Norco Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a business located in the 100 block of Hidden Valley, Norco, reference a reported burglary. Upon arrival, deputies determined three suspects had forced entry into the business, removed property, and fled the location. Deputies searched the surrounding area and located the suspects nearby with the stolen property. The suspects fled from the deputies and were able to evade immediate capture. The investigation continued throughout the morning. At 7:47 a.m., investigating deputies located the suspects in the 2000 block of Temescal. The suspects fled from the deputies a second time. Two suspects were located and taken into custody in a nearby neighborhood with the assistance of the Aviation Unit and K-9 deputies. The third suspect was located in the immediate area a short time later and arrested without incident following a brief foot pursuit.

 

Jamal Javen Pugh                                             Fredrick James Reed

The suspects were identified as Fredrick James Reed, age 20, Jamal Javen Pugh, age 20, and a 17-year old Black male juvenile, all from the Compton area. Reed and Pugh were arrested for burglary and booked into the county jail in Riverside. The 17-year old juvenile was arrested for burglary and booked into the Juvenile Hall in the city of Riverside. During the investigation, the Norco High School campus was temporarily locked down as a precautionary measure while deputies searched for the suspects. The suspects were not armed, and no injuries were sustained as a result of this incident. The investigation is continuing. Anyone with additional information regarding this case is encouraged to contact Deputy Robertson or Deputy Mendez of the Norco Sheriff’s Office at (951) 270-5673.

 

Fatal Shooting Justified

Photo courtesy: Chino PD

By Anthony Saude

Chino – The San Bernardino County District Attorney’s Office in favor of a Chino police officer for a fatal shooting of a man on  July 23, 2016

Bernard Wells III, 31 of San Diego, was shot and killed when he pointed a gun at Lt. William Covington and ignored an order to stop during a foot pursuit.

The incident took place at about 9:15 p.m. in a parking lot in the 12100 parking lot of Central Avenue. Wells approached a family and said that he was “looking for some weed” according to the District Attorney’s report at the time. Witnesses told investigators that Wells kept his hands on the front of his pants and they thought that he had a gun in his possession.

Wells drove away after the family told him they didn’t have any marijuana the DA’s report said. A little later a police officer was driving by and was flagged down by the family. While the officer was speaking with the family Wells drove by. The family pointed out Well’s vehicle out to the officer.

Wells parked his car and was getting out when the officer approached him. The officer attempted to search Wells; when he refused to let the officer search him he took off running. The office went after him in pursuit and radioed it in.

Covington was wearing a body camera that clearly shows him leaving a store; he heard the officer’s radio broadcast of the pursuit. He set his ice cream on the trunk of his patrol car and ran toward the area that Wells was running towards. The body camera that Covington was wearing clearly shows that he cut Wells off, pulled in gun and yelled, “get on the ground right now!”

Wells raised his right arm and pointed a gun at Covington the report said. Covington fired three shots at Wells and he went down. The Paramedics arrived on the scene and transported Wells to a nearby hospital via ambulance. He was pronounced dead later that evening.

Ex-Volunteer Coach At Corona, Eastvale Schools Accused Of Sexually Abusing Teen Girls

By Anthony Saude

Corona – Draper Mitchell has been arrested by Corona Police Department for suspicion of felony sexual misconduct with three teenage girls. According to the Police department they believe that there are still more young ladies out there that haven’t come forward at this time.

Mitchell a part owner of Player’s Edge basketball gym in Corona was also a volunteer basketball coach at Santiago High School in Corona and Roosevelt High School in Eastvale. It is believed he used all of these avenues to meet his victims, Corona police said in a news release. It was reported by the police that they are still searching for more victims. Corona-Norco Unified School District officials told police that Mitchell hasn’t volunteered at either school this year. None of the allegations being investigated took place on school grounds according to reports by the police.

A 15 year-old made allegations against Mitchell in 2010 but that case was suspended because of a lack of evidence the police reported. This most recent investigation had been going on for 4 months before Mitchell was arrested on the last day of November. Mitchell was booked on suspicion of committing lewd and lascivious acts on a child, oral copulation with a minor, sexual penetration with a minor and two counts of annoying or molesting children.

Jail records show that Mitchell was able to post his $90,000 bail and was released the next day Friday December 1. A 17 year old girl that worked at Player’s Edge reported that he had been having “sexually explicit” conservations with her according to the police. A different 17 year old told police that she also quit working at players edge because Mitchell had committed sexual battery against her. The other allegation was from another girl, whose age has not been released, said Mitchell and her had “engaged in a sex act” in Eastvale.

Detectives are asking anyone who was a victim of Mitchell or has any information related to the investigation to contact Detective John Garcia at 951-739-4858 or John.Garcia@CoronaCA.gov.

 

The Christmas Train

By Mark Hopper

I have shared in the past that I received a Lionel Train set for Christmas when I was a young boy. We have a photo of me and my father and my grandfather playing with my new train on Christmas morning in the 1950’s.

The train set was lost for many years in a closet in my parent’s home. I thought they had given it away after I got married. When we helped my parents move out of their house, my brother discovered the train set but he didn’t tell anyone.  He surprised me on Christmas Day with this mystery box.

We have a photo of me, and my children and my father playing with that old train at Christmas in the 1980’s.  After we moved to Diamond Bar, that Christmas train ended up on a shelf in our garage for many years.  Finally, some of our adult children asked me to get the train down and set it up for their children to see.

I was reluctant to get it down and set it up. I didn’t know if the train even worked anymore.  But, children and grandchildren can be pretty persuasive. Last year, I got the train box down and set it up around the Christmas tree.  To my surprise, the train worked! They were delighted to see Pop Pop’s train.

However, the wires that powered the transformer were brittle and the train engine was sluggish. I took the engine and transformer to a model train store in Costa Mesa. The owner was able to clean up and lubricate the engine and put a new cord in the transformer.  My childhood train was running again!

Now, it is the Christmas season again and that means it is time to get out the Lionel Train. When two of our grandchildren were at our house recently, we set up the train in front of our Christmas tree. I let them help me operate it. They enjoyed it and I did too.  My wife took a video to capture the memory of another generation playing with the train together.

I don’t know what childhood memories you have or what Christmas gifts that you may have kept over the years.  But, let me encourage you to look in the closet, the attic or the garage and see if there are some childhood memories like old dolls, toys or trains that you can share with your children or grandchildren this year. They will be glad you did and you will too.

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Christmas Eve Services:

9:00 / 10:15 AM & 5:00 PM

Efreedb.org

Roosevelt H.S. Boys Cross Country 15th In The Country

By Anthony Saude

Eastvale – The Roosevelt High boys cross country team qualified to be a part of one of the most prestigious post season events in all of high school sports. Only the top 22 seven man teams and 45 additional individuals from 9 regions in the country qualify to travel to Oregon and compete in the Nike Cross Nationals (NXN). “It is an honor just to qualify for a competition of this magnitude” said Joe Robles, head coach of the boys cross country team at Roosevelt High School.

The team finished 2nd to Great Oaks in CIF Southern section and then had to finish in the top 2 in the state of California to qualify for the NXN meet. There are 9 different regions in the country and only the top 2 teams in each region qualify to go Oregon to compete for the NXN title and the coveted Winged Goddess of Victory Statue. Even though it wasn’t raining at race time it did start up again midway through the race to intensify an already intense race. The 40 degree temperatures and the premium, championship quality course at Glendoveer Golf Course challenged each competitor to give it all they had.

“The teams all have to compete as a club because Nike outfits each boy with a NXN custom uniform for the event as well as spikes, socks, warm ups, socks, backpacks and more. Our uniforms had our hometown, Eastvale written across the front of the, said Robles. “The boys just had a great time and because we were required to compete as a club they got to take it all home, they loved it” added Robles

The team finished 15th in the competition, that is 15th in the COUNTRY.

An incredible finish for the team on a day that saw their top CIF finisher Tyler Spencer run through severe back pain due to a 24 hour flu bug. Michael Fagan was battling the flu and had a 102 degree temperature and had been in urgent care the Wednesday before the trip, they finished 4th and 5th on the team respectively. Senior Raymon Ornelas finished 1st on the team followed by Sophomore Raul Chaves and Senior Moises Rendon finished 3rd for the team with one of his best efforts of the season. Matthew and Aaron Liberman finished 6th and 7th for the team beating out the Great Oaks 6th and 7th place finishers.

“Even though it was an overall off day for our team we are all incredibly proud of our team just for being there, much less finishing number 15 in the entire country. We feel like we are a top 10 team on our best day” said Robles. Robles also wanted to recognize his Assistant coach, David Cummings, for all of his hard work all season long. “Eastvale gets very hot in the summer months and David looks out for the boy’s safety by getting them up getting out with them for a good run at 5:30 in the morning all summer long”.

 

Public Safety Tips for Holiday Season

By City of Eastvale

The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department would like to remind the public about safety tips for this holiday season. With all the entertainment and activities associated with the holiday season it’s easy to overlook some personal safety practices.  Below are some helpful tips to keep in mind:

CAR SAFETY
Do not leave packages or valuables visible within your car.  Always lock your doors and windows and don’t forget to set your alarm or use an anti-theft device.

SHOPPING TRIPS
Always be aware of your surroundings. If shopping at night, go with a friend or family member.

SHOPPING WITH LITTLE ONES
Teach children to stay close to you at all times while shopping and never allow children to make unaccompanied trips to the restroom.

PACKAGE DELIVERY
With the online shopping trend, more people are having packages stolen right off their front porch. If you are expecting a package, request signature confirmation or have a trusted neighbor hold the package for you.

GIFT PACKAGE DISPOSAL
Dispose of big gift boxes discreetly. Packaging for items such as TV’s, computers etc., should be broken down before disposing. Do not let everyone see the wonderful gifts your family received during the holidays.

ANSWERING THE DOOR
Criminals will often scope out your home posing as a sales person or someone looking for charitable donations. Be cautious when talking to people whom you are unfamiliar with and do not let them in your home.

LEAVE THE LIGHTS ON
Leave outside lights on at night or set them on a timer. During the day, leave the radio or television on so the house looks and sounds occupied.

TRAVELING
If you are going away for the holidays, have a neighbor or family member watch your house and pick up your newspapers and mail.

The Riverside Sheriff’s Department is committed to public safety and wishes everyone joy and happiness during this holiday season. Citizens are encouraged to call their local law enforcement stations to report any suspicious activities, vehicles or persons.

Non-emergency concerns may be reported to the Eastvale Police Department by calling 951-776-1099 or, in an emergency, by calling 9-1-1.

 

 

First On The Block Again

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Mark Hopper

I have shared in the past that my wife likes to put up our Christmas decorations the day after Thanksgiving. We have boxes and boxes of decorations that take hours and hours to put up and display. It is a lot of work, but she really enjoys decorating for the Christmas season.

 

Part of decorating for Christmas includes putting up lights on the outside of our house. This is primarily my job. I use the same colored lights every year. I suppose they look a little dated, but they still work!

I always like to be the first on our block to have Christmas lights on our house.  Sure enough, we were first again this year.  I think that the City of Diamond Bar used to give recognition to the homes that have the best outdoor holiday decorations.  I doubt that we will ever win that prize, but I wonder if we might win a prize for being the first in the neighborhood.

 

However, I must admit, I was a little grumpy this year.  Decorating is a tedious task.  I have to get the lights out of the garage and test each string to see if all the bulbs still work.  Then I have to get out my step ladder and climb up and down numerous times to hang the lights up on the house.  I always forget which string of lights go where.  After all, I only do this once a year.

 

And, I think I was a little grumpy that I was putting the lights up by myself again this year.  The kids are grown and gone, and my wife spends many more hours than I do decorating the inside of our house.   The grandkids are too young to help.  Maybe I had a little too much Turkey at Thanksgiving this year.  I just wasn’t as motivated as I have been in the past.

 

Secretly, I was hoping that it might rain the day after Thanksgiving so I would have an excuse to not work on the outside lights.  But, unfortunately the weather was beautiful with temperatures in the 80’s.  It was inevitable – ready or not it was time to put up the outside Christmas lights.

 

Gradually my attitude and outlook began to change as I put up the lights.  I realized that I shouldn’t be grumpy that I have to put up the lights on the house, but that I should be grateful that I have a house to put lights on!   I’m sure there are a lot of people who would be thrilled to have a house to decorate for Christmas.  I should be grateful not grumpy.

 

By the time I was finished, I was glad I was able to decorate the outside of our house for the holidays.  I was thankful we have a house to decorate!  After the sun set on the day after Thanksgiving, I was pleased to see the Christmas lights on our house again.  They looked pretty good, too!

 

I hope that you enjoy the Christmas season this year.  Enjoy the season with a thankful heart.  Don’t be grumpy about the decorating, shopping or spending.   Be grateful that you have a home to decorate, and friends and family to share it with.  They will be glad you did and you will too!

 

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Christmas Services December 24th

At 9:00, 10:45 & 5:00 PM

Efreedb.org

Diamond Bar High Wins Golden Bell Award

By Kelli Gile

DIAMOND BAR–Diamond Bar High is a well-established leader in student achievement in the state and nation.

Staff members are dedicated to providing personalized educational programs, challenging students to discover their unique gifts, and supporting each student to realize their potential.

But, the quest for greatness isn’t always academic.

Last year, the campus launched a Wellness Center to provide an extra layer of counseling support and wellness education services.

And in just 15 months, the school’s pioneering efforts have been validated.

The California School Boards Association (CSBA) selected Diamond Bar High to receive the prestigious 2017 Golden Bell Award for its innovative efforts in addressing the wellness needs of the over 3,000 students on campus.

The heart of the Wellness Center is helping students learn to cope with everyday problems, according to coordinator Sandy Davis.

“The educational services and resources provided promote student responsibility, resiliency and efficacy in students’ own wellness decisions,” said Davis.

The center services approximately 30 students weekly with the motto “Empowering Student Wellness from Within.”

This year, the growing program is staffed by 23 student interns who can relate peer-to-peer on most challenging teen issues.  These wellness consultants receive an additional 30 hours of intensive training, as well as earning Mental Health First Aide certification.

The center offers stress and anxiety relief, progressive relaxation exercises, and guided meditation designed to help students reduce stress.

Weekly therapy dog visitations are among the most popular of the services offered to students and staff.

Recent outreach efforts include mini-workshops on stress management facilitated for two AP European History classes.

The Wellness Program also garnered the 2017 California Gold Ribbon and 2016 Inspired Changemaker awards by Facebook and Yale’s Center for Emotional Intelligence.

“I am grateful for this opportunity to support teens’ positive and successful transition into the next phase of their lives,” Davis said.

The CSBA Golden Bell Award presentation was made during the Annual Education Conference on November 30 in San Diego.

 

Norco College Military Recognition

By Anthony Saude

Inland Empire – Norco College has been recognized by two prestigious military organizations for their efforts to include programs centered on their military population. Norco College received recognition from Military Times for the third time in four years as one of the best colleges for veterans to attend. The college doubled up when Military Friendly® notified them that it has been named a bronze-level Military Friendly® School Award recipient for 2018.

Norco College President Bryan Reece reportedly said “We are so proud for these recognitions,” “This is a true testament of the exceptional service Norco College provides to the veteran community in their transition from classrooms to careers.”

Norco College was one of only three Community College’s in California to be recognized by Military Times, ranking them 16th overall. In 2015, NC ranked 20th on the Military Times list and 16th in 2017. The rankings were the most competitive they have ever been for 2018 with 218 colleges submitting an extensive, 150 question survey to be considered. Less than half of the schools that participated made the cut at all.

According to the Military Times, the rankings were more competitive than ever, a record number of schools participated in the annual survey, and less than half made the cut. The rankings were based on the college’s survey responses and data from the Federal Education, Defense and Veterans Affairs departments. The recognition was based on five categories: culture, academic quality and outcomes, policies, student support, cost and financial aid. You can view the whole list of rankings at MilitaryTimes.com, as well as ArmyTimes.com, NavyTimes.com, AirForceTimes.com and MarineCorpsTimes.com.

Military Friendly® recognized Norco College by awarding them with the Military Friendly school award for 2018. Over 1200 post secondary schools were designate as Military Friendly in November of this year. Only 541 of those schools were recognized for excellence in the categories of: academic policies and compliance, admissions and orientation, culture and commitment, financial aid and assistance, graduation and career, and military student support and retention.

The names of awardees are published online at https://militaryfriendly.com/ and will be printed in G.I. Jobs® and Guide to Military Friendly® Schools.

Find out more about Norco College’s award winning Veterans Resource Center at:

http://www.norcocollege.edu/services/admissions/veterans