Tag Archives: Chino

Rise of SUV Third Row Seat Thefts

Photo courtesy: Google

By Michael Armijo

Chino Valley – Local police departments have issued warnings of the rise in SUV third seat thefts and encourage residents to secure their property.

“You can use a cable and lock the seat up to the inside of the vehicle, never leave your vehicle unlocked, park your SUV inside the garage or backed up against the wall so the tailgate doesn’t open, or just remove the seat from the vehicle and store it in your garage or storage facility,” a press release urged residents to do to avoid being a victim.

Popular models that have quick release rear seats have been GM model SUV’s, including the Suburban, Tahoe, Yukon and Cadillac Escalades are primarily being targeted because of their price. The thefts are most commonly occurring in residential areas during the night.

“You can get anywhere from $300-$1200 per seat,” said John Ramos, an auto recycling specialist. “Most people buy them online no questions asked,” he said.

“Please safeguard your vehicle by using the prevention tips provided and report any suspicious activity to Chino PD at (909) 628-1234,” said the Chino Police Department. For Chino Hills you can call (909) 364-2000.

Police Department Issues New Address

Staff Reports

Chino –Effective immediately, the Chino Police Department’s official street address has changed from 5450 Walnut Avenue to 5450 Guardian Way, although they never physically moved.

Since 2012, the area surrounding the Chino Police Department facility has experienced several new developments, which includes, the naming of the road directly in front of the police station, as a new street: Guardian Way. So the building faces Walnut Avenue but is inset, with a small street in front. This small street in front, parallel to Walnut Avenue, is now Guardian Way.

Additionally, the Police Department is no longer visible from the adjacent main streets nor physically located on Walnut Avenue. Therefore, the change is necessary.

“We are excited about our new Guardian Way address,” states Chief Karen Comstock. “Not only will the change more accurately reflect our geographic location, but it is also symbolic of our mission to be ‘Guardians’ of the city we proudly serve.”

The address change will be reflected on all police correspondence, traditional and electronic mail, forms and website. As the police department transitions, over the next several months, it is imperative that the community is informed of the change.

Please be aware that the new address may not be immediately reflected on online maps and app.

Looks Like It’s NO On Measure H

By Michael Armijo

 

Chino – Chino has spoken and their voice was heard. NO on H won, so this means there will be no zone changes for the proposed property and general plan.
Yesterday, Tuesday, July 11, a special election was held for the city of Chino registered voters to vote on Measure H, which would have amended the general plan the Chino Municipal Code. But it did not pass so no amendment will happen.
The Special Election was held to submit Measure H to voters within the City of Chino. Voters decided whether to amend the Chino General Plan and the Chino Municipal Code. The Registrar of Voters of the County of San Bernardino conducted the special election and canvassed the returns for Measure H.
“It has been defeated,”  Cyn Geithman Sielen, a volunteer on the No On H Committee, Protect Chino. “It was a team effort and we all worked hard to preserve our community.”
The Ballot Question was: Shall Ordinance No. 2017-004, entitled “Shall Ordinance No. 2017-004, entitled “An Ordinance of the People of the City of Chino, California, to Enact Section No. 20.15.160 of the Chino Municipal Code Converting 29.7 Acres From the General Plan Designation of RD 1 to RD 4.5, RD 8, and RD 12 Generally Located Between Vernon Avenue and Benson Avenue, South of Adams Street, and North of the Chino Promenade Shopping Center and rezoning the same from an RD 1 designation to RD 4.5, RD 8, RD 12 designations” be adopted?”
So what does that mean in layman’s terms? A large housing development would’ve been built if passed July 11. Developer D.R. Horton planned to build 180 homes in north Chino if the special election ballot had passed.
There was both an opposition and a proposition to this ballot in and around the surrounding neighborhoods. If approved, the measure stipulated that 20 acres of rural land south of Francis Avenue would’ve been rezoned. In place of rural space would’ve been 12 single-family homes, 87 detached single-family homes, and 73 condos.
The two groups, those opposing Measure H which had organized a committee “PROTECT CHINO” and the supporting Measure H called “Support Chino Jobs and Schools, Yes, on Measure H,” had been dueling for the ballot measure.
Currently, 30 acres of parceled land north of Cinemark Movies in Chino is zoned for one house per acre, possessing the grazing land and 8 single-family houses. In a Chino City Council meeting in April, the council voted 4-1 to place Measure H on the ballot for citywide election.
“Thank you for all your hard work!!” said Kristi Schwartz, an avid supporter of the NO movement said on social media this morning.
“Thank you, Laura, for being involved in this amazing effort,” said Chino Mayor Eunice Ulla in the same thread.
The property owners of the rural land are long-time Chino residents, and state that this development would’ve been a benefit for the city. Matt Evans and father-in-law Ron Brewer, stated that more than 600 Chino residents have expressed support for the project. Unfortunately, it was only 25% of the vote and just wasn’t enough.
“This just goes to show your vote DOES count,” added Daniel and Brenda Strong.

#measureh #chino #noonh #noonmeasureh #chinodevelopmen

 

Fireworks Branded Violations

Photo by Michael Armijo

Staff Reports

Inland Empire – Fireworks in Chino Hills, which are all illegal, resulted in on citations being issued, according to the Sheriff’s Department. Diamond Bar had nothing to report as of press time. But between 6 p.m. and 12 a.m., the Chino Police Department in collaboration with the Chino Valley Fire District issued 64 fireworks citations on Tuesday, July 4th. Assigned personnel strictly enforced Chino Municipal Code 08.12.170 relating to fireworks possession and discharge.

The joint enforcement was geared specifically to look for offenders who inappropriately used “safe and sane” fireworks and/or were in possession of illegal fireworks. The 14 assigned teams confiscated 289 pounds of illegal fireworks. In addition, before the 4th of July, enforcement personnel confiscated 1,075 pounds of illegal fireworks during proactive operations, according to a press release by the city. The grand total weight of confiscated illegal fireworks related to the Independence Day celebration is 1,364 pounds. The police department also received 220 fireworks calls for service during the six hour period. This is a minor decline compared to last year’s calls for service which totaled 290 calls.

“While it is unfortunate that people continue to violate the law by using illegal fireworks, I am pleased to report we did not have any significant fireworks related incidents during this year’s 4th of July celebration,” Chief Karen Comstock stated in a press release. It is important to note; in order to issue a citation, officers must witness an offender in possession of/or using the illegal fireworks. Each of the 64 citations issued were for possession of illegal fireworks, which carries a $1,000 fine.

The crackdown should result in $64,000 in fine money, which the city hadn’t specified where the money goes to as of press time.

Two Men Injured in Gun Accident at Prado Olympic Shooting Park in Chino

Staff Reports

 

Chino – After a gun was accidentally discharged, a man in his 30s was shot in the hip at Prado Olympic Shooting Range Park, according to a Chino Valley Fire District news release.

Firefighters responded at 1:13 p.m. to a report of an accidental discharge at the range, the release stated. One man in his 30s had been shot in the hip and a second man, also in his 30s, had suffered an ankle injury. The first patient was airlifted to Loma Linda University Medical Center in stable condition while the second patient declined further medical treatment, according to the release.

There were no immediate details released on the shooting, such as accidental, intentional, or if anyone was cited or arrested. A call to the Chino Police Department was not returned before press time.

Prado Olympic Shooting Park was the former site in the 1984 Olympic Games and is considered a premier facility.

Measure H On July 11 Ballot

Photo courtesy: City of Chino
The map above shows the area that will be rezoned if Measure H is approved
by voters on July 11th.

By Marissa Mitchell and Michael Armijo

Chino – This coming Tuesday, July 11, a special election will be held for the city of Chino registered voters to vote on Measure H, which will amend the general plan the Chino Municipal Code.

The Special Election will be held to submit Measure H to voters within the City of Chino. Voters will decide whether to amend the Chino General Plan and the Chino Municipal Code. The Registrar of Voters of the County of San Bernardino will conduct the special election and canvass the returns for Measure H. Below is the ballot question; key dates and deadlines; documents and general information.

The Ballot Question: Shall Ordinance No. 2017-004, entitled “Shall Ordinance No. 2017-004, entitled “An Ordinance of the People of the City of Chino, California, to Enact Section No. 20.15.160 of the Chino Municipal Code Converting 29.7 Acres From the General Plan Designation of RD 1 to RD 4.5, RD 8, and RD 12 Generally Located Between Vernon Avenue and Benson Avenue, South of Adams Street, and North of the Chino Promenade Shopping Center and rezoning the same from an RD 1 designation to RD 4.5, RD 8, RD 12 designations” be adopted?

So what does that mean in layman’s terms? A large housing development that will be built if passed on special ballot July 11. Developer D.R. Horton plans to build 180 homes in north Chino if the special election ballot passes.

There is both an opposition and a proposition to this ballot in and around the surrounding neighborhoods. If approved, the measure stipulates that 20 acres of rural land south of Francis Avenue would be rezoned. In place of rural space will be 12 single-family homes, 87 detached single-family homes, and 73 condos.

The two groups, those opposing Measure H and an organized a committee called “Support Chino Jobs and Schools, Yes, on Measure H,” have been dueling for the ballot measure.

Currently, 30 acres of parceled land north of Cinemark Movies in Chino is zoned for one house per acre, possessing the grazing land and 8 single-family houses. In a Chino City Council meeting in April, the council voted 4-1 to place Measure H on the ballot for citywide election.

Chairman of “No on H” Ed Layaye stated, “The neighborhood is very concerned about this project, “We’re meeting weekly and figuring out how to compete with a multi-billion dollar corporation like D.R. Horton.”

Former mayor Larry Walker is the group treasurer and wrote the argument opposing Measure H, stating, “I’ve become aware of a dramatic number of developments cooking in Chino and it seems like every one is a violation of the general plan,” he said. “I told the people 40 years ago the general plan should be the guide for the development of Chino.”

The property owners of the rural land are long-time Chino residents, and state that this development is a benefit for the city. Matt Evans and father-in-law Ron Brewer, stated that more than 600 Chino residents have expressed support for the project.

Evans declared, “Ron Brewer and I believe that Measure H will be a positive step forward for our entire community. It will enable young Chino residents the opportunity to raise their families here and offers new home ownership in an affordable part of the city.”

Other owners echo this sentiment, saying that this development will lure more potential residents to Chino, thus bringing in more economical revenue to be used municipally.

For or against, this Tuesday July 11, cast your vote for your voice to be heard.

Local Bank Robbery Suspect Caught

IMG_4584

Staff Reports

Chino – The “AK-47” bank robber who shot and wounded a local police officer back in 2012 was caught this week in another state. He is also accused of a string of bank robberies throughout the country. He was dubbed the “AK-47 Bandit” by FBI agents because in each robbery, the suspect brandishes an AK-47 –style assault rifle with a drum magazine. 

Richrd Gathercole, 39, was arrested in Helena, Montana for shooting at a Kansas State Trooper. While in jail, Gathercole himself tipped police off during a recorded phone conversation. According to a transcript, he apparently called his mother, whom he lived with, and instructed her to “get all the guns out of the house”. His mother, who was unnamed, agreed and then said “um, this is recorded. You know that.” Apparently he did not.

On Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2012, the California Bank & Trust on 5455 Riverside Drive in Chino, California, was robbed by a white male, described as 25-40 years old, with a stocky build.  The suspect was armed with an assault rifle, similar to an AK-47, with a sling and drum magazine.  Following the robbery, a police officer patrolling the area came upon the bank robbery suspect who was fleeing the bank.  The suspect fired upon the officer and seriously wounded him.  During and following the robbery, the suspect wore body armor over a dark-colored collared short-sleeved shirt and blue pants, as well as a ski mask covering his face. 

The suspect was seen leaving the scene in a vehicle described as a dark gray Nissan Maxima with four doors and tinted windows.  A witness described seeing Arizona license plates on the vehicle. The suspect was seen in bank surveillance video and photographs dressed in tactical gear over a dark-colored, short-sleeve collared shirt and blue pants. He also wore a black full-face ski mask, a blue ballistic vest and/or a green mesh vest marked “Sheriff.”  

“I was on my way to the post office and parked across from the Chino Valley Medical Center Emergency entrance as I usually do,” said Michael Armijo, a passerby. “Then comes a police car screeching down the street as though he didn’t have control of the vehicle.” He drove erratically because the officer had a bullet in his leg, the police department confirmed.

“The officer flipped the door open and yelled ‘I’ve been shot’ and I ran up to the car with another passerby. I instructed him to get help at the ER and I tried to help him get out of the car,” Armijo said. “He then proceeded to give me details about the incident and the suspect to tell the detectives when they got there, so I did.” Armijo also said the officer told him he just happened to pull up when the robber was walking out. It was just timing, the officer had no warning there was a robbery going on. The robber saw the policeman and just began to open fire on the police car, striking the car in the fender, the door and the rear panel. The officer was hit through the door and the bullet entered and exited his leg, while the gas tank was punctured but did not ignite, Armijo said.

FBI officials have been looking for years for the suspect in Vacaville, Rexburg and others in California, Washington state and Nebraska dating back to 2012.

FBI agents, along with officers from Chino; Rexburg, Idaho; and Montana’s Musselshell County searched Gathercole’s home in the town of Roundup, about 50 miles north of Billings, on Saturday, according to officials with the Musselshell County Sheriff’s Office. Inside, they found “numerous” improvised explosive devices that were removed by a bomb squad, the officials said in a statement. His arrest was for the attempted shooting of the trooper who was trying to pull him over on interstate 70, and the trooper wasn’t injured.

Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact the Chino Police Department at 909 628-1234, their nearest FBI office or dial 911. For more information you can sign onto http://www.chinopd.org/.  The FBI’s wanted flyer announcing the reward can be found at http://www.fbi.gov/wanted/unknown/unknown-suspect-17/view.  Information can be provided confidentially.

Chino Valley Officials’ Texts and Emails Must Be Disclosed On All Public Matters

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino Valley, CA – In early March, the California Supreme Court ruled in a unanimous decision to disclose all public-related information regardless of source, a cause supported by open-government advocates.  Cities in and around Chino Valley are looking to comply with said ruling, which generally forces public employees, including politicians, to share texts and emails to public record, even when they come from personal devices.

This ruling came from a long-standing 8-year battle after the city of San Jose refused to release “private” texts and emails to a public records request. These texts and emails, sent by officials, discussed a downtown development project. According to the new ruling, the court stated that communication sent on personal cell phones and computers must be disclosed to the public if they “relate in some substantive way to the conduct of the public’s business.”

In response, the city of Chino Hills has set up email accounts for all public commissions, and is provided a training workshop on Monday May 22 at 7 p.m. in council chambers. Assistant City Attorney Elizabeth Calciano will commence with the training that day.

Now, public officials will be subject to scrutiny on multiple levels. The thought is that they will be disinclined to conduct public business on personal devices or avoid scrutiny.

California Supreme Court Judge Carol A. Corrigan wrote of this recent ruling, “A city employee’s communications related to the conduct of public business do not cease to be public records just because they were sent or received using a personal account.

In the city of Chino, email accounts will be issued to the planning commission, but not to the community services commission because it is not a “decision-making authority,” according to spokeswoman Monica Gutierrez. Even prior to the San Jose court ruling, the city of Chino established a policy encouraging the use of city-issued cell phones and other such devices.

The Chino policy stipulates that all communication on city-issued equipment is subject to perusal at any time, and open to monitoring and public record requests.

The Chino Valley Unified School District spokeswoman Brenda Dunkle stated the district is awaiting recommendations in the middle of May from the CSBA (California School Boards Association) regarding this ruling.  She also stated that the district’s current technology use policy declares that any device accessing the district’s network is not private, whether used on site or off.

Fire Chief Time Shackelford stated he has iterated to his personnel only to use fire district servers and accounts to correspond, create, or store documents and communications related to district business. Training will also be provided for fire station employees.

Various news media representatives have called the decision “a resounding victory for the public.” This new ruling sends a strong message that public officials and employees cannot evade public scrutiny by using personal accounts.

Local governments have expressed concerns about invasion of privacy for its workers, so further concrete details are to come from the California Supreme Court on just how to go about this monitoring. Executive director of the First Amendment Coalition David Synder stated, “If employees are conducting written business about the people’s business on email, that ought to be available to the public. It shouldn’t matter if the email is privately owned or owned by the government.”

 

 

“Protect Chino” Launches Prop H Campaign

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino, CA – There is a grass-roots group – “Protect Chino No on H” – campaigning against a large housing development that will be built if passed on special ballot July 11. Developer D.R. Horton plans to build 180 homes in north Chino if the special election ballot passes.

There is vehement opposition to this ballot in and around the surrounding neighborhoods. If approved, the measure stipulates that 20 acres of rural land south of Francis Avenue would be rezoned. In place of rural space will be 12 single-family homes, 87 detached single-family homes, and 73 condos.

May 20 there will be a community meeting scheduled for 4 p.m. at Wolfinbarger landscape store, 5675 Francis Avenue, in Chino, for those opposing Measure H.

In response to this group, property owners of the rural land have organized a committee called “Support Chino Jobs and Schools, Yes, on Measure H.”

Currently, 30 acres of parceled land north of Cinemark Movies in Chino is zoned for one house per acre, possessing the grazing land and 8 single-family houses. In a Chino City Council meeting in April, the council voted 4-1 to place Measure H on the ballot for citywide election.

Chairman of “No on H” Ed Layaye stated, “The neighborhood is very concerned about this project, “We’re meeting weekly and figuring out how to compete with a multi-billion dollar corporation like D.R. Horton.”

Former mayor Larry Walker is the group treasurer and wrote the argument opposing Measure H, stating, “I’ve become aware of a dramatic number of developments cooking in Chino and it seems like every one is a violation of the general plan,” he said. “I told the people 40 years ago the general plan should be the guide for the development of Chino.”

The property owners of the rural land are long-time Chino residents, and state that this development is a benefit for the city. Matt Evans and father-in-law Ron Brewer, stated that more than 600 Chino residents have expressed support for the project.

Evans declared, “   “Ron Brewer and I believe that Measure H will be a positive step forward for our entire community. It will enable young Chino residents the opportunity to raise their families here and offers new home ownership in an affordable part of the city.”

Other owners echo this sentiment, saying that this development will lure more potential residents to Chino, thus bringing in more economical revenue to be used municipally.

Special ballot is to occur on July 11 of this year.

4 Chino Residents, 1 CH Resident Arrested For Attempted Burglary

By Michael Armijo

Chino Hills – Five area residents were arrested this week by Chino Hills Police when they were caught attempting to burglarize a home and apprehended at gunpoint.

Garret Rogers, 19, Ruben Medivil, 19, and Roberto Alonso Salmon, 18, all of Chino, Joaquin Leonardo Salmon Garcia, 20 from Chino Hills, and a 17 year-old male juvenile from Chino were arrested Monday May 1st, around 1 pm in the afternoon, after a homeowner caught them inside his residence. Three suspects were apprehended at the scene while two others ran away but were subsequently caught a short distance away by Chino Hills PD.

On Monday, May 1, 2017 at 1:05 p.m. the Zhang family was inside their home on the 13000 block of Gemstone Court when they heard noises on the upstairs balcony of their home. The suspects then attempted to enter the home through an upstairs door. Home owner Yan Zhang retrieved a handgun and confronted the suspects. Zhang held the suspects at gunpoint while a neighbor called 911, and his wife kept the children safe.
Two of the suspects fled, but were captured nearby when Deputy Eileen Smith arrived on scene. Many of the surrounding neighbors assisted by providing information to the responding deputies. All five suspects were taken into custody. Four of the suspects were booked into the West Valley Detention Center, and the juvenile suspect was cited and released to his parents.
 The family spoke little English. Their neighbor told CBS2’s Crystal Cruz what happened Monday afternoon when the family heard unwanted guests in their back yard.

“They came home from supermarket, and they noticed somebody jump the fence and try to pry in. And he panicked. He had a gun. So he pulled out and do a warning shot,” neighbor Tony Tran said to CBS2 reporter Crystal Cruz.

Neighbors wondered why the burglars picked a home with bars on the windows and described as Fort Knox of the cul-de-sac.

“If that’s what he felt he needed to do, that’s what he needed to do. Because you don’t know. You walk in and someone’s in your house. You don’t know if they’re going to kill you.” neighbor Lapedtra Singleton said to the CBS2 reporter Crystal Cruz.

Last month, at another house nearby, the homeowner was sleeping when he said two people with their faces covered tried unsuccessfully to break into his place through the window and left in a white car, CBS2 Cruz reported.

Anyone with additional information reference this incident is urged to call the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at (800) 78-CRIME. And refer to case #221701495 

Cyclist Found Dead In Chino Hills State Park

Photo by Michael Armijo

By Michael Armijo

Chino Hills – A 42-year old Downey resident was found dead in the Chino Hills State Park last Monday around 2 pm after he was reported missing the night before.

Sokha Pho, 42, of Downey, was reported missing by his family after he failed to return home from his bike ride on Sunday. The initial missing person report was investigated by park rangers, who located Pho’s vehicle parked near the Chino Hills State Park Discovery Center in Brea, 4500 Carbon Canyon Road, but found no sign of Pho, said Lt. Steve Gil of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department, which was assisting in the search.

Investigators from the Orange County Sheriff’s Department contacted the Chino Hills Police Station and requested mutual aid in locating a missing mountain biker in the Chino Hills State Park, local reports said.

A San Bernardino County sheriff’s helicopter ultimately found the body in the park, which straddles both counties; the body appeared to have suffered trauma injuries, which may indicate he fell or was ejected from his mountain bike. It was unclear if that agency has initiated a criminal investigation.

Members of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department searched the west portion of the park, while the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department – West Valley Search and Rescue, along with the Department’s air ship (40 King), searched the east portion of the park. At approximately 2:05 p.m, 40 King crew members located Pho’s body near Raptor Ridge on the Telegraph Canyon trail. Pho was pronounced deceased. The San Bernardino County Coroner’s Division responded to the location. The cause of death is currently unknown and will be determined after an autopsy is completed, a press release said.
Anyone with additional information reference this incident is urged to call the Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000. Callers wishing to remain anonymous may call WeTip at
(800) 78-CRIME (27463)., referring to case #031701165.

Accident Sends Two to Hospital

Photo by Michael Armijo

By Michael Armijo

Chino – An accident on Pipeline and Schafer Wednesday morning sent two people to the hospital when a car hit a box truck pushing it on its side and into a light pole.

At about 6:05 am Wednesday morning Maria Hernandez, 30, of Ontario was traveling west bound on Shafer Avenue in her 2012 grey Honda Civic when she collided with a 2004 box truck driven by Francisco Sodo-Mejia, 27, also of Ontario, according to Tamrin Olden, Crime Prevention Officer for Chino PD.

“The intersection was closed to oncoming traffic in each way for several hours during the investigation,” said Officer Olden, “the investigation is ongoing so no other details are available.”

Mejia, the driver of the box truck which was struck by the Honda, was apparently ejected. It was not yet determined if he was wearing a seatbelt or not. Hernandez struck the truck and then collided with the tree, Olden confirmed.

“They were both taken to local hospitals via ground ambulance without life threatening injuries,” she added. Mejia remains in the hospital as of Friday April 21, with extensive injuries and was downgraded to having no life threatening.  Hernandez was released the same day. No updates were available except there were no life threatening injuries.

If anyone has any information or witnessed the accident Officer Olden encourages them to call the Chino Police Department at 909.628.1234.

Photo by Michael Armijo

Heart 2 Serve: Offering Hope to the Hopeless

Combining Community Outreach with Business Services

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino Hills – For four years now, an organization has existed somewhat under the radar providing services to both individuals and the community at large.

Heart 2 Serve, a privately owned and operated 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, currently assists adult individuals in substance abuse recovery and reintegration as productive members of society through community service and construction businesses offered to the San Bernardino and Los Angeles County areas.

This faith-based (Christian) organization was founded by Brian and Cindy Baughman, with the help of fellow faith members, in 2013. It initially began as a construction company, followed by what was termed an “RV ministry” for transitional living. In 2015, Heart 2 Serve, Inc. became a 501(c)(3) entity, focused entirely on individuals who truly wanted help.

Heart 2 Serve provides all that is necessary to rebuild individual lives that have fallen into hopelessness due to substance addiction through the business built from these humble beginnings. Currently, the organization assists often-stigmatized individuals, including parolees and homeless persons, in their recovery through provision of work, shelter, food, and clothing, so as to reintegrate them as productive members of society.

Heart 2 serve offers a 2-year program that begins with establishing a life-plan of achievable goals designed to measure a client’s progress, rebuild his confidence, and discover newfound hope.

According to its mission statement, Heart 2 Serve Inc. is “the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things unseen.” From the ashes of all the ruins of lives destroyed by addiction, there is birthed a new life amidst despair in the act of serving others. Thus, the name was chosen: Heart 2 Serve.

Among the services required and/or available for a client of the transitional living and reintegration program is participation in the following: substance abuse recovery programs (12 Step meetings), spiritual counseling, safe shelter, employment and skill training (through the construction and moving services training), health and care, food and clothing, legal assistance, education and transportation, and, finally, gainful employment.

The professional contracting and moving services that Heart 2 Serve provides through its nonprofit not only helps fun their ministry, but it also offers an opportunity for individuals in the program to learn new skills and earn an income.

To that end, Heart 2 Serve is a licensed, bonded, and insured general contractor, able to meet every commercial and residential construction and moving needs.

What attracts individuals and businesses to hire Heart 2 Serve over other companies is not just the low pricing, but, as a non-profit, there is also a substantial tax savings provided in using the service, as it is considered a “charitable contribution” on tax forms.
Good cause. Good savings. Rebuilding society from the ground up – literally. Not much else one could desire from a nonprofit, really.
For more information, visit www.h2si.org.

 

Historic Planes of Fame Airshow Being Sued for “Obstruction” of Businesses

By Marissa Mitchell

 

Chino – A lawsuit recently filed is seeking to stop the historic airshow held annually at the Planes of Fame Air Museum. The air show is scheduled to take place on May 6 and 7 at Chino Airport.

The suit alleges that the event “obstructs and impedes” other tenants’ business operations, thus violating the licensing conditions of the event itself. The lawsuit is seeking unspecified damages and the hearing is scheduled April 20 in San Bernardino County Superior Court.

Harry T. Geier, director of marketing and development at Planes of Fame, remarked, “As we await the judge’s decision on April 20th, we are going forward with preparations and looking forward to the show.”

Planes of Fame is a nonprofit organization led by Steve Hinton, a warbird devotee and former champion air-racer. The organization has submitted an online appeal for supporters to help save the 25th annual air show of this historic landmark.

The online petition had gathered 14,670 voters by April 12 out of a desired 15,000, exhibiting a strong desire for the continuation of the show. On the petition website, the organization stated that the air show, “serves as the primary fundraising effort for the Planes of Fame Air Museum…[It] helps us to carry on our mission to preserve aviation history, inspire an interest in aviation, education of the public, and honor aviation pioneers and veterans.”

On April 2, the law firm Borchard & Callahan announced the lawsuit on behalf of several airport tenants, including Zangeneh Aeronautics, Socal MRO, Flying Tigers Aviation, Yanks Air Museum, and AFT Center. All businesses allege that the losses over the 9-day period of set-up, event, and take down for the airshow are significant.

Nonetheless, Geier noted, the museum is still selling tickets online, but, he stated, “if the airshow is cancelled due to decision, we will refund all of the tickets bought in advance on our website.”

Up to this point, all of the acts for the historic airshow have already been scheduled.

“The volunteers and workers are committed and the airshow performers are looking forward to participating and supporting the air show on May 6 and 7,” declared director Geier optimistically. With much public support rallying behind them, Planes of Fame staff and community family hope to celebrate the sixtieth anniversary of the museum with another successful airshow.

2 Die and 4 Injured in Church Parking Lot Accident

By Marissa Mitchell

 

Chino – A man driving a sports utility vehicle (SUV) struck six people in a church parking lot on Sunday, April 9, killing two and injuring four. Police say it was not terrorist-related.

The crash occurred at 7 p.m. in the parking lot of East Sarang Community Church, locate at 5540 Schaefer Avenue in Chino, CA. After an event held at the church, the senior male driver of the charcoal gray SUV reversed too forcibly when backing out, going over a curb and striking six pedestrians.

All six victims were women, and two were killed immediately upon impact. The other four were seriously injured, but with non-life threatening injuries. The driver and his passenger also sustained non-serious injuries, per the police, and were transported to the hospital as well.

“We do not believe that any alcohol or drugs played a part in this collision,” stated Lt. Kevin Mensen of Chino PD. The investigation is ongoing.

All six female victims were attending the event at the church, but were not members.

Police do not believe the crash to be intentional, but there is no immediate cause for the crash at this time.

Kevin Mensen stated of the driver, “We don’t know what his coherentness was. We don’t know what caused [his sudden acceleration], whether his age or anything else.”

The names of the person involved have yet to be released.

Teen Recovering Well After Heart Transplant

By Marissa Mitchell

 

Chino – Sophomore Alexis Anderson of Chino Hills High is recovering remarkably well since her heart transplant earlier this month.10

At age 15, she suffered an episode of cardiac arrest from a heart condition developed during adolescence. Prior to receiving an appropriate heart donor, she had spent over a month in the ICU, mostly unconscious and entirely immobile. Her cardiac arrest placed her at emergency-level status of need of a heart.

The surgery performed on March 6th lasted 12 hours. According to her father, Todd Anderson, “Alexis has been recovering very well since her transplant.” Her body has not rejected the new heart in any way, and her vitals are stable. He added, “In my opinion she has been improving at a faster rate than expected.”

Earlier in February, her struggle received a good deal of media attention when her classmate LaMelo Ball scored an impressive 92 points in a Chino Hills High basketball game, and he subsequently dedicated the outcome of the game entirely to her.

“Her biggest obstacles now are in the rehabilitation process,” stated Todd Anderson. “She will continue to improve, but it will be a long journey.” Now that Lexi can stand and walk (with assistance), and that her vocal cords are healing with her voice, Lexi is truly demonstrating her resilience.

Since her hospitalization, Christian organization Agape Miracles has set up a GoFundMe account to fundraise for medical costs on the family’s behalf. There were many factors going into “finding” Lexi a heart, but most are as mysterious as (right now) are the details of the organ donor.

The family first found Alexis nonresponsive on February 3 of this year. Her parents then performed CPR until the paramedics could take over the situation. She was successfully revived and transported to the emergency room, and put on a transplant list. She was given priority 1-A status on the heart transplant list: emergency status. While waiting, she was kept alive by a VAD, also known as a ventricular assist device. She had emergency surgery Feb. 7, just prior to LaMelo Ball’s 92-point game. She then received a heart.

Throughout this ordeal, the Andersons sought spiritual assistance through prayer. They actively attribute Lexi’s recovery to God. Even now, Lexi has a wonderful spirit about her. As her father stated, “There will be many challenges ahead, but we are confident that God will continue to provide for Lexi through each and every obstacle.”

 

Chino 99 Cent Store Applies For Alcohol License

99Store

By Michael Armijo

Chino – Those of you who have visited the “Smart and Final” shopping center on Central Avenue and Philadelphia may have noticed a new sign in the window of the “99 Cents Store”: “Application to Sell Alcoholic Beverages”.

It’s a growing trend around the state, and nearby states, as Tempe Arizona approved a liquor license. But not so fast here in southern California, as the Chula Vista 99 Cent store’s application was rejected. Two more licenses were sought after, one rejected and one granted. The Lake Forest 99 Cent store may sell beer and wine only, but not at the Foothill Ranch store on Towne Centre Drive, a city commission has decided.

Requests made by the stores in January for waivers that would allow them to sell alcoholic beverages to customers were denied in this month by Development Services Director Gayle Ackerman. Such waivers are an option for businesses in tracts deemed “saturated” by the ABC, which makes such determinations based on population.

99 Cent Only store in Chula Vista  was rejected by the community and subsequently the Chula Vista Police Department.

Applications to the Department of the Alcoholic Beverage Control for certain alcohol licenses in census tracts with an oversaturation of licenses or high crime rates (over 120 percent), require an investigation by law enforcement to determine if the business would be a necessity or convenience to the community.

Chula Vista police Det. Jesse Vicente, who oversees these types of licenses, said Friday his team rejected the request to sell alcohol at the Third Avenue and Moss Street location because it didn’t meet criteria to be deemed necessary or convenient to the public.

“We want to be a convenient store,” said Manuel Becerra, district manager for 99 Cents Only according to the San Diego Tribune. “You come to the store and you find everything you need.”

Wine is sold at a discount, but more than a dollar, at 99 Cents Only stores because they buy in bulk, a 99 Cent spokesperson said. The chain has been expanding beer and wine sales across the country.

The 99 Cents Only stores began selling beer and wine in 1983, shortly after the first store opened, spokeswoman Sarah Correa said. While one Mesa store obtained a liquor license in 2000 and another surrendered its license about a decade ago, the rest of the approximately 20 stores that applied for licenses did so this year, according to Arizona Department of Liquor Licenses and Control data.

Dollar stores may have a challenge that other retailers that sell alcohol do not because they often are neighborhood stores, he said. Some communities have resisted the addition of alcohol to dollar-store shelves, according to news reports.

“The application to sell beer and wine is in progress, but not yet approved,” said Martha, a Chino 99 Cent Store employee. “But the one in Pomona currently sells alcohol, you can go there to purchase,” she added. For more information, or to provide input, contact the Riverside ABC District Office at 951.782.4400, or write to them at 3737 Main Street Suite 900, Riverside CA 92501.

99sign

Chino Teen Undergoes Heart Transplant

By Michael Armijo

Chino – A 16-year old sophomore cheerleader at Chino Hills High School underwent a heart transplant last Sunday after a month of hospitalization after her condition took a turn for the worse.

Lexi Anderson, who lives in Chino, has been waiting for her new heart, is at Loma Linda Medical Center recovering from surgery.

“The most important thing is our daughter’s alive,” Lexi’s father Todd Anderson told CBS2 Sunday night.

“We are feeling overjoyed, this is a day that’s been long coming,” he added.

Her health battle received a great deal of attention last month when her classmate, Lamello Ball, scored 92 points in a Chino Hills High School basketball game Feb. 7, and dedicated his performance to her.

The surgery, which lasted 12 hours, was considered a success after the family was informed Sunday afternoon that a heart donor match had been found. She went into surgery at 9 pm Sunday night and came out Monday morning at 11 am.

“March 6th will forever be an important date in the life of our family, and in the life of Alexis. It has been a good day, and for the first time in over a month we have more certainty of a future life with Alexis,” father Todd Anderson wrote on the GoFundMe online fundraising page, set up to help with medical costs. Agape Miracles Org posted Anderson’s comments on his behalf.

Todd Anderson’s posted that Lexi’s new heart began beating after the surgery, but there were some complications with bleeding. Surgeons kept her in the operating room for an additional six hours to manage the blood loss. For now, Lexi is being given her blood transfusions to deal with the loss.

The donor match came as she had a difficult Saturday and had to be shocked seven times over the course of the day, Todd Anderson wrote.

According to a Facebook post from her father, Todd Anderson first discovered his daughter not breathing Feb. 3. Her parents performed CPR until paramedics could take over. She was revived and rushed to the emergency room with a rare heart condition that put her on the transplant list.

An ECMO machine, which pumps and oxygenates a patient’s blood, kept Lexi alive while the family waited. She had emergency surgery Feb. 7, right before Chino Hills basketball player Ball scored 92 points in a game against Los Osos High, sparking lively debate online and sports talk shows about the all-offense showing. Afterward, the sophomore and UCLA commit said he dedicated the game to Lexi, according to local reports. “92 points #love4lexi,” Ball tweeted.

Doctors planned to lessen Lexi’s reliance on a breathing tube Tuesday, which will mark the beginning to a long recovery process, Todd Anderson wrote. He also noted that she’s been in ICU for over a month and will face physical therapy and rehabilitation.

As of Thursday afternoon, the GoFundMe page has brought in more than $77,774 for the family to assist in their medical costs. According to the GoFundMe account, the family is trying to raise $500,000 to cover medical bills.

“Since the moment it first started beating at 3:50 am on Monday, March 6th, Lexi’s new heart has beat approximately 440,640 times.,” wrote Anderson on Lexi’s Facebook account. “We are thankful for each and every contraction.”

“Another momentous thing happened today. Lexi sat up! She had her first dose of physical therapy today, and the main objective for today was to sit Lexi upright. This was done with assistance from the physical therapist, and Lexi sat upright for about 10 minutes. This was a big accomplishment that left Lexi feeling exhausted. She has been lying in a hospital bed for over one month,” added Anderson.

The Andersons attribute their success to God and their faith in Jesus.

“In the book of James, James completes this thought, and describes life as a vapor. Life without God is a dangerous game…an endless ‘chasing after the wind.’ He concludes that we need to bring God into our planning, and let Him have ultimate control. ‘Come now, you who say, Today or tomorrow we will go to such and such a city, spend a year there, buy and sell, and make a profit;’ whereas you do not know what will happen tomorrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapor that appears for a little time and then vanishes away. Instead you ought to say, ‘If the Lord wills, we shall live and do this or that.’ (James 4:13-15)” Anderson wrote.

Rain Storm, Closed Roads, and School Canceled

Staff Reports 16195221_10210427059945178_4289949113097798031_n

Chino- This past weekend’s rain storm was something we haven’t seen in a long time! Hail came in covering the streets looking like snow. The amount of rain caused many streets to flood, school closed, as well as the City of Chino urging residents to shelter in place.

On January 22, the Cal Aero Preserve sent a message to the parents stating, “Out of an abundance of caution, Superintendent Wayne M. Joseph has determined, in conversation with the City of Chino and the Chino Police Department, to cancel classes at Cal Aero Preserve Academy on Monday, January 23, 2017. Classes will resume on Tuesday, January 24, 2017.”

The City of Chino Police Department posted a Community Emergency alert that stated, “Due to excessive flooding in the region, we are urging residents to shelter in place until further notice. The National Weather Service has forecasted continuous rainfall and flooding throughout the evening and into the morning in San Bernardino County. Specifically in Chino, there are limited routes through The Preserve area. Our neighboring communities are also experiencing flooding and have roads closed as well. Please be advised, it is best to remain in place and avoid all roads. City crews are monitoring 24/7 and will notify you when the roads are safe to travel. Emergency personnel are already staged inside The Preserve and are available to respond to any incidents in the area. Additionally, public safety personnel have emergency vehicles that allow them to access any closed roadways.”

It has been reported that the City Of Chino has plans to improve road conditions but they will not use tax payer’s money for future road improvements which has been made clear to developers.

The Community Emergency alert was lifted on January 23, Monday morning at 6 a.m. The City of Chino Police Department saying, “Thank you for your cooperation and patience during the latest storm series.”

The City of Eastvale also participated in helping with an updated list of road closures in the area, as well as the surrounding areas that citizens use to drive through the community. Refer to your cities website for updated road closures and detour map options for your daily commute.

 

Next Steps: Measure G

By CVUSD

Now that the results of Chino Valley Unified School District’s Measure G have been certified, activity has begun to kick off the $750 million bond program. The most common question is when will the community see something built or go up or change as a result of Measure G’s passage.

“That should become clearer over the next few weeks as a series of meetings and Board of Education study sessions begin,” said Superintendent Wayne M. Joseph. “Make no mistake about it, we are excited to embark upon this process and as anxious as the rest of the community to see a Measure G project begin.”

The Board of Education will meet in special session on Thursday, January 12, 2017, to approve the formation of the Citizens Oversight Committee. The meeting will take place in the Board room and is open to the public.

Once the Board has established the formation of the Citizens Oversight Committee, the application process will begin. Beginning January 13, 2017, interested residents can complete an application for consideration of appointment to the Oversight Committee. The Oversight Committee is governed by state law and members are to be appointed within 60 days after the election results were adopted by the Board, or no later than the first Board meeting in February (February 2, 2017).

The purpose of the Oversight Committee is to review and report to the public on the bond expenditures, advise the public as to the District’s compliance with Prop. 39, and ensure that no bond funds are spent on teacher salaries or District operating expenses. Additionally, the Committee receives and reviews annual financial audits.

The Oversight Committee consists of a minimum of seven members including representatives from the following: business organization, taxpayer group, senior group, parent of a student in the District, and parent involved in parent-teacher organization.

Applications will be available from January 13 to January 25, 2017, on the District website: www.chino.k12.ca.us or in the Superintendent’s Office between the hours of 7:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m.

On January 19, 2017, Robert Barna, Managing Director of Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, will provide a presentation on the bond sale process at the Board of Education meeting. Stifel, investment advisors, also partnered with the District throughout Measure M, the previous bond program. The meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. in the District Board room and is open to the public.

One week later, the Board of Education will hold a budget study session to begin to plan and prioritize projects.

“The goal of the study session is to begin the prioritization process and build a timeline for projects,” said Greg Stachura, Assistant Superintendent of Facilities, Planning and Operations.

The study session will begin at 5:30 p.m. on January 26, 2017, in the District Board room and is open to the public.

On February 2, 2017, at the Board of Education meeting, the Board is expected to appoint the members of the Citizens Oversight Committee. The meeting begins at 7:00 p.m. in the District Board Room and is open to the public.

In addition to Board action, the Facilities, Planning and Operations Division is preparing budgets and working with other state agencies to ensure the District can obtain matching funds for eligible projects.

In the first 180 days, the Facilities Division will also oversee the hiring of consultants such as architects, CEQA experts, bond program manager & construction manager. Additionally, it will review other professional services contracts and construction contracts for various delivery methods.

Opportunities for the community to be involved in the process are available through meeting attendance or watching replays of meetings and study sessions on You Tube and/or applying for a position on the Oversight Committee. There will be opportunities for continued community involvement once projects enter the planning stages. Students, parents, community members and school personnel will be invited to learn about those opportunities as school project planning begins.

“The District engaged the community for one and a half years to learn about their priorities and expectations for our schools,” Mr. Joseph said. “The valuable contributions from our meetings helped shape the project list that will be before the Board for prioritization later this month.”

Mr. Joseph added, “We hope that community members – students, parents, staff, neighbors, business and civic leaders who care about the future of the Chino Valley, its schools and the success of its students – will join us on this journey.”

KEY DATES

Board of Education Meetings:

January 12 at 5:00 p.m. – Special Meeting of the Board of Education
• Creation of Citizens Oversight Committee

January 19 at 7:00 p.m. – Meeting of the Board of Education
• Bond presentation by Robert Barna

January 26 at 5:30 p.m. – Board of Education Study Session On Measure G
• Study session on bonds from election to sale

February 2 at 7:00 p.m. – Board of Education Meeting
• Appointment of Citizens Oversight Committee members