Corona, CA: Extreme Bar Makeover

With an abundance of reality TV shows based on eateries such as Hell’s Kitchen, Ace of Cakes and America’s Next Great Restaurant, network executives have yet to base a program on bars and drinking establishments. Until now.

Cable network Spike (formerly Spike TV) announced earlier this year the creation of Bar Rescue, a one-hour business makeover type show where host Jon Taffer travels across the country in a weekly quest to reinvent dying bars. Taffer is a leading expert in the food and beverage industry, working as a consultant to many bars, restaurants and nightclubs in Miami.

Recently, one of our own watering holes in Corona was cast to be featured on the show when Spike booked the bar formerly known as Angel’s to appear in one of the first episodes set to air this month.

“We received a completely new style of business, including our name change,” says owner/manager Brad, who declined to give his last name. “We were Angel’s Sports Bar, but we are now Racks Billiards and Bourbon. We have been here at this location on the corner of 6th and Magnolia for just over 15 years.”

Brad said that the opportunity for Racks Billiards and Bourbon to appear on the TV show came through the coincidence of having mutual friends with someone involved with the production of the reality TV program.

“A friend of ours, who has known us for years, happened to be good friends with a casting director for the show,” Brad says. “So after a bit of talking, the idea sounded cool enough and he hooked us up. We were of course very excited over this, but I think my employees were a bit more excited to be on TV.”

Brad described that the entire process of pre-production and shooting for the episode took about 90 days.

“It took around 3 months from the time we started talking to the actual filming,” he explains. “But the actual filming took only about a week. This was a great experience for all of us; never in a million years did we think that our bar in Corona would be part of the whole reality TV world.”

Taffer will serve as main host on the show, but will also be joined by other leading experts in the industry, including his wife Nicole. The show will divulge many intricacies into the world of running a successful (and not-so successful bar). Taffer is said to get in people’s faces over everything from crowd management to how to professionally handle overly intoxicated people and disgruntled workers.

Bar Rescue, is the first bar-themed show for Spike.

Brad said that he is very proud of his new establishment and although the show was a positive experience, he wants people to drop their preconceived notions about the bar’s past.

“We definitely had a great time and are very happy with the results of everything and how it turned out,” Brad says. “I also want people know that we have a new lease on life, so we want you all to forget the old stigma of Angel’s Sports Bar and come in and check out the new and improved Racks Billiards and Bourbon.”

Corona, CA: DA will not seek death in kidnap-slaying of Corona man

Riverside County prosecutors will not pursue the death penalty next month in the murder trial of a man charged with helping kidnap a Corona real estate broker and burying him in a Moreno Valley backyard.

After evaluating the case of Oscar Ortiz Martinez, Riverside County District Attorney Paul Zellerbach ruled the evidence did not warrant capital punishment. Martinez could face life in prison without parole if convicted of all charges.

The decision was made as part of the district attorney's review of all of the county's death penalty cases, authorities said.

"We believe this is the most appropriate decision, based on the evidence of the case," district attorney's spokesman John Hall said.

Martinez was among three people charged with murder in the death of Orlando Duarte Sr.

Duarte, also a court clerk in Orange County, was taken from his Corona home March 14, 2008. His body was found five days later in a 5-foot-deep grave behind a home on Atwood Avenue in Moreno Valley. He had been bound with an extension cord.

Corona police arrested Martinez a month after the body was found. His estranged lover, Cynthia Rodriguez, and her brother-in law Arturo De Oca, are also charged with murder but remain at large, possibly in Mexico, authorities said.

Police said Rodriguez was living with Duarte and Martinez became jealous.

FBI agents said Duarte may have been taken to Mexico and held for ransom before he was killed.

Days after his capture, his family received phone calls demanding $2 million. While he was being held captive, Duarte called his family and told them he had been taken to Mexico.

Martinez told police that it was Rodriguez who asked for help getting rid of Duarte.

"The evidence shows he (Martinez) wasn't the impetus behind it," Supervising Deputy District Attorney John Henry said. "Cynthia Rodriguez was the driving force."

Martinez's trial is scheduled to begin May 10 in Riverside.

Corona, CA: Gold Medal Deals for Six Days Riders

Corona, CA: Billed as "The Olympics Of Off-Road Motorcycling," the International Six Day Enduro (ISDE) is the oldest event on the Federation Internationale de Motocyclismes (FIM) competition calendar, dating back to 1913. Set this year for Kotka-Hamina, Finland, the ISDE still represents a true test of rider skill, speed and endurance, not to mention requiring a motorcycle that will make it for six days of continuous competition... Finland should provide the perfect environment for Husqvarna's WR125, WR250 and WR300 2-strokes and TE250, TE310, TE449 and TE511 4-stroke motorcycles!

Scheduled to have more than 500 riders from 32 different countries participating, Husqvarna wants to make it easier to compete in the 86th running of the ISDE by creating a "Gold Medal" rental/purchase/service support program through the official Finnish importer MP-Racing. "Basically Husqvarna will set you up as a factory rider for a week, with a bike, tech support gas and even insurance for the Six Days," explains Derek Sorenson, Husqvarna North America's Product & Racing Manager.

"It was great news when Mandi Mastin won her fourth AMA National Enduro of the season and qualified for her 10th ISDE at the same time," says Sorenson. "We want to make it possible for more Americans to have the opportunity to join her in the 2011 ISDE in Finland."

"This will be the 10th time that I have raced the ISDE," adds Mandi. "I have to say that I'm pretty darn excited for August to get here!" Note that the deadline for renting a factory Husky ride ends May 31, 2011. Click here for all the details http://heroesridehuskys.com/pages/2011ISDEbikeRental.pdf

"Where better to convey our 'Ride More' message than at the Olympics of motorcycling?" asks Husqvarna's National Marketing Manager Corey Eastman. "Congratulations to Mandi Mastin for qualifying for the ISDE for the 10th time and go Team USA!" However you don't have to go to Kotka-Hamina in Finland to get a gold medal deal on a new motorcycle; closer to home, Husqvarna North America is offering 2.99% APR financing for 2011 machines and .99% for 2010 and earlier models, as well as terms up to 60 months, according to Eastman.

Corona, CA: DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY AT SALSA SATURDAYS

The Shops at Dos Lagos sets the stage for music, dancing, and fun

CORONA, CA: The Shops at Dos Lagos and the UCR Salsa Club bring Salsa Saturdays back to Dos Lagos for the third year in a row. The community is welcome to take part in this FREE event and learn savvy salsa steps, courtesy of UCR Salsa Club.

“This is a fun way to learn how to Salsa in an open environment with friends and family,” said Lou Luista, manager for UCR Salsa Club. “We love coming to The Shops at Dos Lagos, and we look forward to teaching everyone to Salsa dance.”

Salsa Saturdays will take place every Saturday in May starting on May 3 from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. at The Shops at Dos Lagos in the plaza between TAPS Fish House & Brewery and Citrus City Grille. The first hour includes dance instruction followed by an open dance floor where the dancers can strut their stuff to the Salsa beat.

“Salsa Saturdays was brought back for a third year in a row due to popular demand,” said Giovanna Calambrogio, property manager at The Shops at Dos Lagos. “The community obviously loves to Salsa, so why not give them great Salsa instruction, music, and an environment destined to produce a fabulous time.”

About The Shops at Dos Lagos

The Shops at Dos Lagos is located in Corona, California and features a pedestrian-friendly Main Street, a Plaza area with seating, an outdoor amphitheater and the serenity of two lakes. The center offers more than 60 specialty stores, restaurants and services including a 15-screen movie theatre, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, Coldwater Creek, Talbots, Trader Joe´s, Sur La Table, Victoria´s Secret, Z Gallerie and more. The Shops at Dos Lagos is on Temescal Canyon Road between Weirick Road and Cajalco Road. Visit www.ShopDosLagos.com.

Corona, CA: Seeking Vendors for Fender Centers event July 30th, 2011

Seeking Vendors for Fender Centers event July 30th, 2011

Riverside, CA: Good Food and a Good Conscience

Bryant Terry, an acclaimed eco-chef, food activist and author, will visit UC Riverside at 6 p.m. May 17 in HUB 302.

The event, which is sponsored by UC Riverside Student Wellness Partners, is free and open to the public, but seating is limited. Parking is $5. Find out more at the Well.

Terry will talk about vegan soul cooking and food justice, a concept that seeks to provide everyone with equal access to food, regardless of race, class, gender, ethnicity, citizenship or ability.

It’s an important topic, especially for students who don’t always eat right.

“Since students have hectic schedules, they are more inclined to eat food that is easily accessible. Fast food is not only cheap but quick to grab on their way to their next class, meeting or event,” said Rhiannon Little, a student affairs officer in African Student Programs, one of the sponsors of the event.

“Also, due to the restrictions of living in campus housing, it’s not always feasible to cook a meal at home, and that can make grab-and-go eating more attractive.”

During the presentation there will be a cooking demonstration, an opportunity to ask questions, and giveaways.

Terry is the author of “Vegan Soul Kitchen: Fresh, Healthy, and Creative African-American Cuisine” and co-author with Anna Lappé of “Grub: Ideas for an Urban Organic Kitchen,” which won a 2007 Nautilus Award for Social Change.

He has made dozens of national radio and television appearances, including Fox, NBC, PBS, BET and Sundance, and made a guest appearance on the eco-reality series “Mario's Green House.” He hosted “The Endless Feast,” a public television series that explores the connection between the earth and the food on our plates.

In 2002, Bryant founded b-healthy! (Build Healthy Eating and Lifestyles to Help Youth), which according to Terry’s website is “a multi-year initiative designed to empower youth to be active in creating a more just and sustainable food system."

Corona, CA: Dykstra Investigated Over Naked Massage Claim

More legal trouble for Lenny Dykstra -- and this time it's all because the former MLB star allegedly got NAKED and requested a massage from a woman he was interviewing to be his housekeeper.

Law enforcement sources tell TMZ ... the LAPD is investigating Dykstra for lewd conduct ... stemming from allegations made by a 47-year-old woman who claims she answered a Craigslist ad to be Lenny's housekeeper earlier this month.

The woman told police ... when she arrived to the home, Dykstra explained that she wouldn't just have to clean the home, she would also be required to give him massages as well.

The woman claimed Dykstra then took off all of his clothes and told the woman he wouldn't be able to hire her without first sampling her skills. Smooth.

We're told the woman denied his request ... left the home immediately ... flagged down a nearby cop ... and filed a police report. She also locked down a high power attorney, Mauro Fiore Jr., to handle the case.

Attempts to reach Dykstra were unsuccessful.

Corona, CA: Tuesday Farm & Artisan Market KICK OFF

Ribbon cutting ceremony with Mayor Stan Skipworth to celebrate opening

CORONA, CA: The public is invited to join Corona Mayor Stan Skipworth on Tuesday, May 3, at 3 p.m. at The Shops at Dos Lagos for the ribbon cutting ceremony to officially open the Tuesday Farm & Artisan Market. The weekly market will feature California-Certified Farmers of both conventional and organic growing practices, as well gourmet food vendors and artisans. Additional activities to commemorate the opening includes live music by TMK All Starz Band.

The Shops at Dos Lagos is partnering with Farmers’ Market Management Company to host the Tuesday Farm & Artisan Market, which is being sponsored by Trader Joe’s. The market will be open every Tuesday from May 3 – October 25, from 3 - 7 p.m. in the parking lot of The Shops at Dos Lagos at Cabot Drive and Temescal Canyon Road.

“The community has been asking for a farmers and artisan market for years now, so we are thrilled to deliver the market while supporting the local farmers and artists of our community,” said Giovanna Calambrogio, property manager at The Shops at Dos Lagos.

Each week, shoppers will enjoy live music; meet local farmers offering fresh vegetables, fruits and flowers; explore an abundant selection of gourmet food vendors including kettle corn, baked goods, jarred pestos, plus more; and experience unique handmade creations like handblown glass, soy candles, handmade dolls and bears, woodcrafts, and others. To become a vendor for Tuesday Farm & Artisan Market, submit an application at www.myfarmersmarkets.com.

About The Shops at Dos Lagos

The Shops at Dos Lagos is located in Corona, California and features a pedestrian-friendly Main Street, a Plaza area with seating, an outdoor amphitheater and the serenity of two lakes. The center offers more than 60 specialty stores, restaurants and services including a 15-screen movie theatre, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, Coldwater Creek, Talbots, Trader Joe´s, Sur La Table, Victoria´s Secret, Z Gallerie and more. The Shops at Dos Lagos is on Temescal Canyon Road between Weirick Road and Cajalco Road. Visit http://www.shopdoslagos.com/.

Corona, CA: Second black triangle UFO over California on April 20

A Corona, CA, witness reports watching an eastbound black triangle UFO at 7 p.m. on April 20, 2011, that was gaining altitude as it moved toward Riverside and was "changing shape and color," according to testimony from the Mutual UFO Network (MUFON) witness testimony database.

"The black triangle object was pointing east like an arrow tip and was slowly moving eastbound toward Riverside, CA," the witness stated. "It was directly over the intersection of E. Grand Blvd. and S. Howard St. It was very high in the sky and was elevating while moving eastbound."

The object seemed to be changing shape and color.

"The black triangle was turning transparent into a pinkish orange color for a few seconds and then a white color and then back to orange and then black again. It finally once again turned into a pinkish orange as it elevated higher, and then it looked like a white faint star in the distance and then was out of visual site."

The witness, who had been alerted to the object originally by two children, called a friend in Riverside, who "spotted it immediately" - a black triangle with orange colors.

No images or videos were included with the report, which was filed on April 20, 2011. Corona, CA, is in Riverside County, population 124,966.

We previously reported that a Santa Monica witness reported a black triangle on April 20, 2011, in Two triangle UFOs low over Santa Monica were 'size of private jets'. The Corona case was at 7 p.m., while the Santa Monica case occurred at 8:30 p.m. Cornona is about 63 miles east of Santa Monica and roughly a 63-minute drive.

California is a current UFO ALERT 3 rating, with a higher number of UFO sightings nationally. California had 45 UFO reports in March 2011 - the highest reporting state in the nation.

You can read more details about other recently reported cases at the UFO Examiner home page. The most up-to-date UFO information can be heard at web radio show UFO Traffic Report every Wednesday, 9 - 10:30 p.m. EST, which includes a UFO Witness Testimony Program segment, and an update of the UFO ALERT national rating system. Past shows are available at the Archive page.

The following is the unedited and as yet uninvestigated report filed with MUFON. Please keep in mind that most UFO reports can be explained as something natural or manmade. If California MUFON investigates and reports back on this case, I will release an update. Please report UFO activity to MUFON.com.

CA, April 20, 2011 - black triangle object drifting eastbound in corona, ca. changing colors to pinkish orangr to white 7pm day. MUFON Case # 28733.

Corona, CA: Bob Reece Named President of 3V® Fasteners Company, Inc.

CORONA, CA: Bob Reece has been named President of 3V® Fasteners Company, Inc., it was announced today by corporate parent PennEngineering®. Reece succeeds Daryl VerDoorn, who is retiring after founding the Company in 1982. 3V, based in Corona, specializes in precision aerospace fastener products.

Reece joins 3V Fasteners after a 31-year career in the aerospace fastener industry with Air Industries (AIC) in Garden Grove, CA, where he earned a series of promotions and gained increasing responsibilities. Reece has served as President of AIC for the past six years, where his team has been credited with improving customer service, expanding product scope, and more than doubling sales.

"Bob's extensive skill set and experience in the aerospace fastener industry reinforces and further advances our key strategy to build upon and expand our presence within the aerospace marketplace," said Mark Petty, President and Chief Executive Officer of parent PennEngineering.

3V Fasteners is a subsidiary of PennEngineering (Danboro, PA) and a leading manufacturer of externally threaded aerospace fasteners and its products have approvals of the major global aircraft/aerospace OEMs. 3V is an AS9100 accredited company and U.S. Government QSLM approved. The Company's products are distributed through a global network of recognized aerospace fastener distributors.

Riverside, CA: UC-Riverside chancellor goes undercover as ‘Pete’

Do college administrators really understand what life on their campus is like for students, faculty and staff?

This semester the chancellor of the University of California, Riverside, went undercover to find out. For a week, Chancellor Timothy P. White was “Pete.”

He buzzed his hair, wore a mustache, popped in some false teeth, added an earring — and then filled in as an assistant chemistry professor track coach, library worker and tour guide.

His ad­ven­ture was recorded by CBS crews for the season finale of the reality tv show "Undercover Boss,” which airs next Sunday.

White told the student newspaper, The Highlander, that it was an honor to observe campus life from the front lines and the experience strengthened his respect for the public research university in Southern California, which he has led for the past three years. (White also told the student paper that he’s ditching the earring.)

“I was moved and changed as a person and as a leader by the level of dedication of our students, staff and faculty,” White said in a statement.

We will have to wait until Sunday to learn everything else that White learned. Until then, here’s the pre-view for the show.

Corona, CA: DOS LAGOS IN MOTION EASTER BUNNY WALK

WHAT

The Shops at Dos Lagos invites all families to walk on April 21 for Dos Lagos in Motion Easter Bunny Walk to celebrate Easter. The Easter Bunny will be available for photos and will give a sweet treat to all of his visitors.

The City of Corona and The 100 Mile Club have partnered with The Shops at Dos Lagos to create Dos Lagos in Motion – a fitness walking program designed to get children and adults moving on a weekly basis. The walk begins in front of Ben Bridge Jewelers every Thursday at 5:30 pm.

WHEN

Thursday, April 21, 2011 beginning at 5:30 pm

WHERE

The Shops at Dos Lagos

2780 Cabot Drive, Corona 92883

Please visit www.shopdoslagos.com for directions.

For more information on Dos Lagos in Motion, please call 951-277-7601.

Corona, CA: JON FOSTER JOINS HUSQVARNA

BMW Veteran Shifts Gears

Corona, CA: Just in time for tax season, Jon Foster becomes the new Husqvarna North America Sales Planner. In his new role with Husky, Foster will be responsible for managing the complete pipeline for motorcycle inventory. He will analyze sales trends and assist dealers in managing their stock.

“Jon is a seasoned pro and with more than 30 years experience in BMWs retail and wholesale operations, he knows what the dealers are facing first hand,” notes National Marketing Manager, Corey Eastman. In addition to his wealth of experience with Husqvarna’s parent company, most recently as Quality Assurance Manager for BMW, Foster is also an avid motorcycle enthusiast, both street and dirt.

Foster shifted gears from BMW to join Husqvarna’s North America management team shortly after the new “No Fooling” retail finance offer was introduced. “With 2.99% APR on all 2011s and terms up to 60 months, I think we can help the dealers move some motorcycles through the pipeline,” says Foster. This announcement follows on the heels of the news that another industry veteran, Derek Sorenson, had been hired to help with racing and product planning. “Both Jon and Derek are great additions to the Husqvarna team,” Corey concludes. Jon can be reached at: jon.foster@husqvarna-motorcyclesna.com.

Corona, CA: Corona police dog Oldo dies

Oldo, a Corona police dog who teamed with his officer partner on 200 more than arrests, was euthanized April 16 after being diagnosed with stomach and prostate cancer.

Oldo, a 6-year-old Czech Shepherd, had served the department for four years, according to a news release. He was assigned to patrol and SWAT with Officer Chad Fountain. They won seven trophies in K-9 competitions.

The Corona Police Department has four patrol K-9 teams and one narcotic detection K-9 team. In 2010, those units responded to 2,685 calls, searched 364 buildings and 375 open areas, did 189 narcotic-detection searches and located 34 suspects, the news release said.

The K-9 teams also did 36 public demonstrations.

The department is replacing Oldo. Anyone who would like to make a donation on behalf of Oldo can mail it to Corona Police Community Partnership, 730 Corporation Way, Corona, CA 92880, attention Sharon Buonocore.

Chino Hills, CA: Oxnard ends deal with Big League Dreams

After six years of starts and stops, Oxnard has decided to turn out lights on Big League Dreams.

By unanimous vote, the Oxnard City Council agreed late Tuesday to sever its relationship with the Chino Hills firm to build out the final phase of Oxnard's 75-acre College Park with a complex of its replica sports fields and a restaurant.

A 2005 agreement expires next week, and the council instructed City Attorney Alan Holmberg to send notice of its decision not to extend the deal and seek a refund of a $400,000 license fee paid to the company.

Big League Dreams, which specializes in building scaled-down replicas of famous ballparks such as Boston's Fenway Park and New York's Yankee Stadium, was seeking an extension. Officials previously said the firm was eager to move forward with the Oxnard proposal.The move to kill the deal pleased several public speakers who raised concerns over construction costs, the replica concept and the city's proposed relationship with Big League Dreams, which would operate the ball fields and restaurant with a long-term lease. College Park already includes soccer fields, volleyball courts, a dog park and other amenities.

"It's time to end the relationship," Councilwoman Carmen Ramirez said.

The city owns the park land and now can develop it as a city project or seek another partner.

Holmberg cautioned that if council chose to abandon further negotiations with Big League Dreams, it could have to forego the $400,000 refundable license fee.

But the council was convinced it had satisfied its end of the deal, which required the city to make every "good faith" effort to get the deal approved and to secure financing to build it. The city could sell bonds or seek other debt financing, but otherwise the city did not have available funds to cover construction costs, city officials said.

Because parts of Oxnard's College Park were purchased by the city with federal grants, the city must get confirmation from the National Park Service that the Big League Dreams concept doesn't violate those terms. A Big League Dreams concept was submitted for review in 2008, generating several suggested changes.

No revised concepts has been submitted since then, officials said.

Corona, CA: Trader Joe's Store Looking for Sign Artist (AKA Job of the Century!!!)

Store Sign Artist

Creativity makes the experience.

Are you a painter, cartoonist, muralist or just an everyday 'Joe' with a creative flair? Looking to put your talents to work? Then we have possibilities. Who are we? Trader Joe's, your favorite neighborhood grocery store that originated in Southern California and now operates more than 300 stores (and growing) from coast to coast.

Work in a fun, fast-paced environment where food, imagination and innovation make the experience. We're growing like crazy and we need great people like you.

Let your Personality show.

Every artist has a vision, so show yours off and create a fun, memorable experience. As a Store Sign Artist you'll use your artistic talents to craft imaginative, informative, handmade store signs that promote Trader Joe's products. (And make our customers say, "WOW!") We use a lot of chalk, so if that's a medium you're comfortable with, even better.

As part of our Crew, you'll handle a lot. But that's the thing; so does everybody else. What's more, you won't be stuck in one role here. Take over the register, have fun helping customers, bag some groceries, build a display or stock the shelves – there will never be a dull moment in your day!

The work can be physically challenging. But you'll never be bored; we promise you that. And we have a reputation of rewarding our Crew with generous pay and benefits.

Be yourself – and no one else.

At Trader Joe's, you are free to be who you are. That's important to us. So is creating a friendly, diverse culture that encourages fun at work.

A high school graduate with flexibility to work evenings and weekends is preferred.

We can't wait to meet you.

If you're curious and want to learn more, come on in and take a look around. Try some great Trader Joe's products and check out the cool artwork on display. Meet our creative Crew and see for yourself the signs of what a fun environment it is. All puns aside, it's easy to do!

Sound like an excellent fit? Hurry in and apply today. Want a head start? Print up this application, fill it out and bring it with you along with some samples of your work! "A picture is worth a thousand words," after all.

Trader Joe's #213 - 2790 Cabot Drive, Suite 165 Corona, CA 92883

Trader Joe's is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to hiring a diverse Crew.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

please ask for Joel Hughes or Brian Noll when you come in and apply in person!

 

Corona, CA: Muslim leaders focus on modern problems - 'The Islamization of Weed?' sure to start a lively discussion

The title of the evening event at a mosque in Corona, Calif., was intended to provoke discussion, even as it raised an eyebrow or two: "The Islamization of Weed?"

The unusual lecture at the Islamic Society of Corona-Norco in February drew about 150 people, most younger than 30. The idea, said Imam Mustafa Umar, was to encourage a dialogue and attract people who might be put off by a more traditionally religious theme.

Not that the speaker, Sheikh Yassir Fazaga from Mission Viejo, Calif., was there to advocate marijuana use or say it was permissible in Islam. The goal of the lecture, and a small but growing number of similar events addressing issues of depression, promiscuity, alcohol use or homosexuality, is not to change the religion's views on them, but to recognize they are issues that affect the Muslim community, along with others.

Pretending that Muslims don't smoke marijuana is naive, Fazaga said, and counterproductive.

As Muslims in this country grapple with the fact that social issues they thought didn't exist within their communities are there and growing, some leaders of the faith are saying these relevant topics should be addressed at the mosque. No longer, they say, can sermons focus only on such topics as the importance of praying five times a day or fasting in the holy month of Ramadan, without seeming out of touch.

"Generally speaking, religious communities think that by being religious it makes them inherently immune to these problems," said Fazaga, of the nonprofit Orange County Islamic Foundation. "It's wishful thinking."

In February, he gave a sermon about pornography and was approached afterwards by several people, including a 12-year-old boy, who acknowledged having a porn problem. "When I give a sermon about depression, I know the minute I step down from the pulpit, I will have a line of people, 'Sheikh, my mother is depressed,' 'Sheikh, my niece tried to commit suicide.' "

Asim Khan, a junior at Cal Poly Pomona who attended the marijuana discussion, praised the mosque leaders for holding it. "I think it's great ... if you're ignoring something for the longest time it's just going to build up and build up," Khan said. "The youth know that (marijuana) is an issue. They're not stupid, they go to high school and they go to college."

But he said other mosques he knows of, especially those run by older clergy or with less youth involvement, aren't willing to talk about societal issues in such an open way.

For many in the older generation, the forbidden status of drugs, premarital sex and homosexuality in Islam are clear and thus don't need to be discussed, said Aslam Abdullah, director of the Islamic Society of Nevada. But now that more Muslims are dealing with these issues directly and not just on a theological and abstract level, some see it is an opportunity to expand their understanding of their faith, said Abdullah. He is scheduled to give a lecture "Islamic Perspective of Homosexuality" at a mosque in Chino Valley, Calif., later this month.

"People are now willing to go back to the original source and to understand what was said originally and what was meant originally," Abdullah said. "They are saying, yes this topic is settled but we want to understand why."

For many, though, talking about these issues isn't just about connecting with young people or learning more about the faith. It's also about changing the image some may have of the mosque and its role in the American-Muslim community.

Khan, the college student, said the marijuana event gave some people he knows a new impression of the mosque.

"It showed that things that are taboo or were considered taboo ... are starting to be addressed at the mosque," he said. "It did provide a change of perspective that, yeah, 'Someone is at the mosque that I could talk to about my problems and not everyone here at the mosque is pretending to be the perfect Muslim.' "

But most mosques are still playing catch up and many are not yet ready, because they lack the resources or the willingness, to have such open conversations, Abdullah said. Large events that are well publicized, such as the one he will give on homosexuality, can help to encourage others.

"I believe that the houses of God are where people come to seek guidance," he said. "I think they are the best places to seek the guidance and seek clarity on these issues."

Corona, CA: Officials Continue Hunt For Wolf-Dog Hybrid After Fatal Attack On Pony

CORONA, CA: Animal control officers continued Saturday to look for a wolf-dog mix that was on the loose after it and another part-wolf hybrid attacked and ate a miniature horse at a ranch near Lake Mathews.

The animal was one of two involved in a gruesome attack on the pony Thursday in a rural area southeast of Corona.

The wolf-dogs were wearing collars, but no tags, and are believed to be escaped or dumped pets, Riverside County Animal Services spokesman John Welsh told the Riverside Press-Enterprise.

Two wolf-dog hybrids entered a corral on the Bar H Ranch near Lake Mathews on Thursday, where they found Bojangles, a six-year-old miniature horse, the newspaper reported.

The dogs set upon the small horse, which had recently been moved to the ranch from Oklahoma, the newspaper said, and ate it.

Bar H ranch hands shot both wolf-dogs, killing one. The other escaped and was still at large.

The dogs were not believed to be feral by animal control officers, and wolves are not native to California. Both animals were wearing a collar, but neither had ownership tags attached.

The dogs might have escaped from their yard or been dumped in the area, the Press-Enterprise reported. There were no clues as to who owned the dogs.

Welsh said if the dogs were caught, the owner could face consequences for breaking leash laws and would be required to pay pound fees, the newspaper said.

Corona, CA: Answer's James Stewart Makes it Two in a Row in Seattle

Corona, CA: The 15th Supercross race of the year saw Answer's James Stewart take his second win in a row with another strong outing at an always tough Seattle track. With this win, James has catapulted himself back into the title chase with only 9 points separating himself and the series leader.

Throughout the day, James was able to adapt to the tough Seattle track and even laid down the second fastest qualifying time of the day. Coming into the night's events, James made quick work of his heat with a convincing win which set-up himself up to have a great showing in the main event.

As the gate dropped for Supercross class main, James was able to get a great jump and made his way to the lead in the second corner. For the next 20 laps, James mastered the tricky track conditions and came away with his second win in a row.

"Tonight was awesome," said Stewart. "I had fun all day. I thought the track was awesome, it was so tough. I was just trying to stay consistent because I knew it was going crazy behind me. You can look out there and see how rough it is, but my San Manuel Yamaha was working awesome. I'm looking forward to Salt Lake City."

This win helped James get back into the title chase and set himself up to take this championship battle to Vegas. Make sure to keep your eyes on Answer's James Stewart as the series heads to its next stop in Salt Lakes City, UT. As always, find us on our social sites: Facebook.com/Answerracing or twitter.com/Answerracing to have a chance at winning some cool swag and to stay updated on everything Answer!

Supercross Class Season Standings

1. Ryan Villopoto, Poulsbo, Wash., Kawasaki - 293

2. Chad Reed, Tampa, Fla., Honda - 287

3. Ryan Dungey, Belle Plaine, Minn., Suzuki - 286

4. James Stewart, Haines City, Fla., Yamaha - 284

Corona, CA: INLAND EMPIRE RESIDENTS WIN BIG IN THE TOLL ROADS $1,000-IN-TOLLS GIVEAWAY

Joshua Carranco of Corona has won The Toll Roads’ most recent monthly drawing for $1,000 in free tolls. Carranco’s winning trip was selected from 5,149,770 transactions that were recorded in February.

Carranco commutes from his home in Corona to his job in Irvine five days a week and uses The Toll Roads to save time and avoid traffic.

“I was ecstatic when I found out I won,” said Carranco, who has only been a FasTrak accountholder since December 2010. “I take The Toll Roads because they are safe and save me valuable commute time. This program took no effort on my part; the more you use the roads, the more chances you have to win!”

The Toll Roads began hosting monthly drawings for $1,000 in free tolls in November and one winner is randomly selected each month. December’s winner, Dan Gonzales of Chino, was the first lucky $1,000-in-tolls winner from the Inland Empire.

TCA FasTrak accountholders need to register at TheTollRoads.com/1000 only once to be automatically entered to win every time they drive the 73, 133, 241 or 261 Toll Roads.

If drivers do not already have a FasTrak account, they can establish one at TheTollRoads.com or the FasTrak Service Center at 125 Pacifica, Irvine, Calif., 92618. FasTrak lets customers drive every toll road and bridge in California without stopping to pay a toll; tolls are automatically deducted from their pre-paid accounts.

FasTrak drivers save money at every pay point on The Toll Roads, usually $.25 to $.75 compared to the cash toll. Those savings add up fast, topping $100 or more a year for the average user.

All trips taken on the roads during a particular month will be eligible for that month’s drawing only. Only the account holder is eligible to win, not the person driving during the winning trip. No purchase necessary. For official contest rules and regulations visit TheTollRoads.com/1000.

Corona, CA: Kids Rock Free program coming to charter school

Kids ages 7 to 17 will soon have a chance to rock in Temecula.

The Corona-based Fender Center is partnering with a new charter middle school to offer the popular Kids Rock Free program in Temecula.

Through the program, free and low-cost music lessons will be offered after school at Context: Middle School, Temecula, said Michele Smith, founder of the school. Context students also will use the Kids Rock Free curriculum for music instruction during the school day, she said.

The after-school lessons are not limited to Context students.

Context is set to open in August on a site next to the Temecula Valley Unified School District offices and will serve 300 students in sixth to eighth grades. Potential Context students need not live in the Temecula Valley district. Enrollment is now under way.

The school's partnership with Kids Rock Free, which is still being finalized, marks the Fender Center's first expansion of the music education program, Executive Director Debbie Shuck said.

Until now, the program has only been offered at the Fender Center in Corona, but has drawn youths from 7 to 17 from more than 100 cities in Southern California for guitar, bass, drum, piano, voice and other lessons, Shuck said.

Kids Rock supporters, including musician and Fender Center trustee Steve Miller, hope to expand the program across the country and even internationally, she said.

"We want to move beyond our own backyard," Shuck said. The organization decided to begin with Temecula in part because the new program would be close to the original program in Corona, she said.

"This is a perfect fit," Shuck said.

In the Fender Center program, the initial lessons are free. A small fee is charged, $150 for eight weeks, for further lessons, Shuck said. The program began 12 years ago and has served more than 14,000 students, she said. More than 1,000 children are on the waiting list, she said.

Students and parents can learn more about the Kids Rock Free program and Context: Middle School during a kickoff meeting Wednesday at the Context site. Representatives of Context and Kids Rock Free will be on hand to answer questions.

A Fender guitar valued at more than $1,000 will be raffled off Wednesday, Smith said. Students who have completed "intent to enroll" forms for Context will be eligible to win the guitar, she said.

Corona, CA: Easter Bunny Walk at Dos Lagos

Bring family and friends to join the City of Corona and the 100 Mile Club® every Thursday for a fitness walk at The Promenade Shops at Dos Lagos. Children and adults are invited to boost their fitness program at the weekly walk, which begins near Ben Bridge Jewelers every Thursday at 5:30 p.m.

The Easter Bunny will be at Dos Lagos in Motion on April 21 from 5:30 - 6:30 passing out a special treat.

Corona, CA: Experience Corona...in film and in song!

Experience Corona...in film and in song!

Corona, CA: Lenny Dykstra Arrested -- Charged with Embezzlement

MLB legend Lenny Dykstra was arrested at his home in Encino, CA last night after being targeted by the feds for allegedly embezzling more than $400k from his bankrupt estate ... TMZ has learned.

According to the U.S. Attorney in L.A. ... 48-year-old Dykstra was arrested by local authorities and later charged with one felony count of embezzling from a bankruptcy estate.

Officials claim Dykstra -- who filed for bankruptcy in 2009 -- "stole and destroyed more than $400,000 worth of property in the estate."

FYI -- Dykstra is not legally allowed to sell off any of the items that make up the bankruptcy estate. The property must only be used to pay off debts to creditors and all transactions must be initiated by a court-appointed trustee.

According to the criminal complaint -- Dykstra loaded up a ton of his expensive personal items into a U-Haul truck -- including furnishings and fixtures -- and sold them to an L.A. consignment store.

Officials say Dykstra was also trying to discretely sell some of the estate's property on eBay and Craigslist ... including sports memorabilia.

Dykstra is also accused of ripping out a $50,000 sink from his $18 million L.A. area mansion ... and installing it in his office in Camarillo.

If convicted, Dykstra faces up to five years in federal prison.

Story developing...

Additional Reading

Corona, CA: DOS LAGOS RE-LAUNCHES BRAND

New name, logo, Website and URL kicks off branding re-launch

CORONA, CA: The Promenade Shops at Dos Lagos announced today it has changed its name to The Shops at Dos Lagos. This change kicks off the branding re-launch and includes a new logo design, Website design, URL address to www.ShopDosLagos.com, and signage.

In August of 2010, The Promenade Shops at Dos Lagos conducted an in-market focus group seeking feedback from the community about the center’s future, including review of the new name and logo. This focus group, made up of Corona community members, selected the name The Shops at Dos Lagos and the new logo for the branding re-launch.

“The focus group gave us invaluable insight on what the community wants to see take place at The Shops at Dos Lagos. It helped us to not only develop a marketing program based on their needs, but also allowed us to design a brand the community could connect to on a personal level,” said Giovanna Calambrogio, property manager at The Shops at Dos Lagos. “We have many more exciting changes to come, so we are inviting everyone to stay tuned to rediscover the love of The Shops at Dos Lagos.”

The double O in the logo represents the two lakes at the center and the sun or moon reflecting on the water. It also tells the story of what The Shops at Dos Lagos offers the community: an open invitation appeal and a feeling of tranquility.

Installation of temporary signage begins on Thursday, April 14 with the new name displayed throughout the property. The temporary signs will be replaced with new permanent signs pending final design and City approvals.

About The Shops at Dos Lagos

The Shops at Dos Lagos is located in Corona, California and features a pedestrian-friendly Main Street, a Plaza area with seating, an outdoor amphitheater and the serenity of two lakes. The center offers more than 60 specialty stores, restaurants and services including a 15-screen movie theatre, Anthropologie, Banana Republic, Coldwater Creek, Talbots, Trader Joe´s, Sur La Table, Victoria´s Secret, Z Gallerie and more. The Shops at Dos Lagos is on Temescal Canyon Road between Weirick Road and Cajalco Road. Visit http://www.shopdoslagos.com/.

Corona, CA: Diabetes fundraiser @ the Fender Center, Sat. May 21st

Diabetes fundraiser @ the Fender Center, Sat. May 21st

Riverside, CA: California Pyramid, Stock Scam Netted Millions

Promoters convicted and face more than 20 years in prison

Two men who stole millions of dollars through phony stock sales and an illegal pyramid scheme were convicted today on charges of grand theft and securities fraud in a Riverside, Calif., court.

James A. Sweeney, II, 64, of Afton, Tenn., and Patrick M. Ryan, 35, of Canyon Lake, Calif., were found guilty on 65 counts of grand theft and securities fraud. The two men, who face a maximum of more than 20 years in state prison, will be sentenced June 14 in Riverside County Superior Court.

Sweeney and Ryan, co-founders of Riverside-based Big Co-op, Inc., stole approximately $8.2 million from more than 1,000 Californians through an illegal pyramid scheme and phony stock sales, according to court testimony.

Big Co-op, also operating as Ez2Win.biz, purported to be an online shopping hub where consumers could go to purchase thousands of goods and services at discounted prices from big-name retailers including, Sears, Target and Macy's.

Pyramid scheme

Consumers were told they could save money on their own purchases, plus earn commissions and rewards, by convincing others to shop at the site. In reality, consumers never received rebates or rewards. Instead, their monetary gains were based on recruiting others to purchase memberships, and having those purchasers recruit others to purchase memberships, a classic pyramid scheme.

Individuals who were recruited paid Big Co-op between $19.95 and $99.95 in monthly membership fees for the rewards program.

From 2005 to 2006, Big Co-op generated $1.2 million in revenues through this pyramid scheme.

Phony stock sale

In addition to the pyramid scheme, the two men sold phony stock in Big Co-op as a stand-alone investment, prosecutors said.

At seminars and meetings across California, Sweeney and Ryan pitched Big Co-op as the future of online commerce, compared it to Google and EBay, and falsely informed investors the company was turning huge profits.

Investors were also told that an initial public offering (IPO) was imminent, and that when the company went public, the stock would double or triple and their investment could climb to well over $100 per share.

In reality, Big Co-op was never profitable, there was not an impending IPO, and the only significant revenue generated was as a result of the sale of phony stock and the payment of membership fees for the pyramid scheme.

Shares in the company were sold for $0.50 to $5.00, with two-for-one deals offered to investors willing to pay cash. From 2005 to 2006, Big Co-op took in more than $7 million from this scheme.

With investor cash, Sweeney and Ryan bought luxury homes, country club memberships, five Mercedes, and ran up $30,000 to $50,000 in monthly credit card bills. Investor funds were also used to pay for an elaborate bachelor party in Las Vegas, a $23,000 wedding ring and a $100,000 wedding.

In October 2006, after receiving numerous complaints, the California Department of Corporations issued two desist and refrain orders against Sweeney, Ryan and other associates directing them to cease selling stock in the company. In May 2007, a second order directed them to cease selling memberships in the company. Following the second order, the case was referred to the Attorney General's office for prosecution.