Corona, CA: Citizen’s Reports Lead to Arrest of Probationer for Residential Burglary and Car Theft

On Sunday, December 9, 2012, just after 12:30 p.m., Irvine Officers arrested Tony Angulo Jr. (5-9-80) of Riverside County for auto theft, multiple thefts from vehicles and residential burglary after a foot pursuit in the Turtle Ridge area of Irvine.

The first call of a suspicious subject came from a community member at about 9:30 a.m., who noticed Angulo walking in and around vehicles parked in a church parking lot. In addition to calling the police, she started her car and made eye contact with the subject, prompting him to walk away from the area. Just over an hour later, officers responded to the Turtle Ridge Apartments where a small amount of cash had been stolen from an unlocked vehicle. While taking that report, a second victim approached the officer and explained that he too had been a victim of theft from his vehicle. His phone was stolen and he had just tracked it using the “Find My Droid” application. As the man was giving the officer Angulo’s description, they spotted him. Angulo fled into a nearby marsh, but ultimately was caught by officers and taken into custody without incident.

Corona, CA: 91 Freeway expansion leaves homes in limbo

Judy Le Master's mobile home is far enough from the wall separating it from the 91 Freeway. But she can't help but wonder if her property would be one of the ones that may be purchased by the Riverside County Transportation Commission to make way for the expansion of the freeway.

"If they do take them I wish they'd take mine, because I don't want to be right up against the freeway wall," said Master of Corona.

Starting next year, construction will begin to widen the freeway between Riverside and Orange County.

Corona, CA: Popular Inland Empire Mexican fast-food chain coming to O.C.

Popular fast-food Mexican restaurant Miguel’s Jr. is making its way to Orange County. A new location in Costa Mesa is expected to open this fall.

Miguel’s Jr. has made quite a name for itself in the Inland Empire, with the first of the franchise opening in Corona. Since then, the popular eatery has extended its culinary arms to occupy the cities of Fontana, Grand Terrace, Menifee, Murrieta, Norco, Ontario, and Riverside.

Corona, CA: NATIONAL PORTRAIT EXHIBIT TO CORONA

Exhibit Goal to Find Forever Families for Foster Children

A heart rendering photographic exhibit officially opens on Monday, April 23 at The Shops at Dos Lagos in Corona. The Heart Gallery features professional photographs of 50 children in foster care in California and other states across the U.S. The public is invited to view the gallery size portraits in display windows throughout The Shops at Dos Lagos, located at on Temescal Canyon Road between Weirick Road and Cajalco Road, just off the I-15 in Riverside County.

Professional photographers volunteered their time and talents to photograph the children who are featured in the national traveling exhibit which is touring selected venues throughout the U.S. Many of the children featured in the gallery are considered “hard to place in permanent homes” because they are older, in sibling groups that hope to stay together, or have special needs. The children’s photographs can also be viewed on line at www.nationalheartgalleryexhibit.org.

Corona, CA: 91 toll lanes could be extended to Corona

The 8-mile extension of the 91 Express Lanes -- designed to ease gridlock between Orange and Riverside counties -- is moving forward with added funding and a new deal to jointly manage the toll lanes.

Riverside County plans to extend the Express Lanes from the Orange County line to the I-15 and will add a new lane in each direction of the 91. Several interchanges will be improved, as well as streets in the city of Corona.

Corona, CA: Miguel's Jr. Opens New Location, Announces Fundraising Partnership

Miguel’s Jr., a popular Mexican restaurant with locations across the Inland Empire and Orange County, has opened a new restaurant in Menifee, Calif.

Miguel’s Jr., a popular Mexican restaurant with locations across the Inland Empire and Orange County, has opened a new restaurant in Menifee, Calif. The new Miguel’s Jr. at 30362 Haun Road in Menifee opened on November 15, 2011, and the official ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on November 17, 2011, at 10:30 a.m.

The company will celebrate the latest opening by partnering with the Menifee Valley Community Cupboard, a non-profit organization based in Menifee, Calif., that aims to alleviate hunger and malnutrition by providing emergency food at no cost to the homeless, seniors and families who are experiencing hard times. Miguel’s Jr. will donate a percentage of sales from November 17th to the Community Cupboard. “My parents, the Founders of Miguel’s, recognize the importance of being part to the fabric of communities where we are located. We are excited to be able to partner with the Community Cupboard,” said Javier Vasquez, CEO of Miguel’s Jr. Restaurants.

Corona, CA: 2011 football season kicks off 9/2

Dolphins will open the new season at Santiago of Corona.

The 2011 football season for Dana Hills High School kicks off Friday with the Dolphins visiting Santiago of Corona at 7 p.m.

Dana Hills, 4-6 last season, has a new coach, Todd Rusinkovich, and a new look. The Dolphins will go with all-black uniforms and metallic blue helmets this season.

Corona, CA: OCTA pumps $72.5 million into SR-91

Construction on the project began Monday and is expected to conclude in September 2012

The Orange County Transportation Authority (OCTA) broke ground on Monday for a $72.5 million project that is expected to ease traffic along State Route 91 (SR-91), which is a main transportation artery connecting Orange County with the Inland Empire. The section of highway is a busy commuter and goods movement corridor with an average daily traffic volume of 300,000.

“The improvements planned for the 91 freeway are a top ranked priority for the business community,” said Lucy Dunn, president and CEO of the Orange County Business Council. “The 91 freeway…accommodates not only commuters to and from the Inland Empire, but it is a major trade corridor between the Ports of Los Angeles and Long Beach and America’s Heartland. Adding extra lanes to ease congestion increases mobility, improves goods movement, and helps parents get to their kids’ soccer game after work.”

The project will add one general-purpose lane for six miles in each direction between the SR-55 and the SR-241, according to OCTA. In addition, it will widen the bridge for Imperial Highway and the Weir Canyon Road under crossing in both directions. On and off ramps will also be constructed to accommodate for the widening. OCTA plans to finish the improvements by September 2012.

“OCTA is very pleased to see this project get under way and we are looking forward to bringing much-needed traffic relief to the hundreds of thousands of residents, commuters and visitors who travel this stretch of freeway every day," said OCTA chair Patricia Bates, also the Fifth District supervisor.

In addition to improving traffic, OCTA is continually seeking to improve the environment. Local leaders expect the construction will eventually help lower emissions.

“When cars and trucks aren’t idling in heavy traffic, they aren’t contributing exhaust emissions,” said Dunn. “Good flowing traffic is better for good air quality—important to a high quality of life in the Southland.”

4th of July Fireworks Shows, Parades and Events! (Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange Counties)

CHECK INLANDDAILY.COM FOR UPDATED 2013 EVENTS!!!

Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange Counties List of 4th of July Fireworks Shows, Parades and Events

Here it is folks, our annual (big) Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange Counties List of 4th of July Fireworks Shows, Parades and Events!

IMPORTANT: Event times, locations and pricing have not been individually verified; we suggest calling the event organizers directly. E-mail us info@mycitycorona.com for event information correction.

July 4th – Riverside/San Bernardino County

Apple Valley

Brewster Park

21024 Otoe Rd.

Freedom Festival

6:45 a.m. – Firecracker Run

$8.00 in Advance, $10.00 day of race

Entertainment, Kids Games, Food

2:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m.

760-240-7880

Banning

Nicolet Middle School Football Stadium

101 E. Nicolet St. due North of the school

5:00 p.m. – Activities, Food and Beverages

7:00 p.m. – Band

9:00 p.m. – Fireworks

Phone: 922-3243

Big Bear Lake

Fireworks Display and BBQ

BBQ – 5:00 p.m.-8:00 p.m.

Marina River Resort

Lakeview Drive

Call Phone: 866-2112 for advance BBQ Ticket Sales

Fireworks over the lake after dinner

Phone: 866-4607

Canyon Lake

Skipper Island

Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m.

DJ on the Pool deck

Private, to residents of Canyon Lake only

Chino

Freedom Celebration & Fireworks Extravaganza

Chino High School

5472 Park Place

3:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Games, Food, Entertainment

Phone: 628-1571

Corona

"Main Street U.S.A" Parade

Proceeds north ending at Olive St.

Starts at 10:00 a.m.

Phone: 736-2241

Corona

Santana Park

598 Santana Way

4:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Live bands

Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m.

FREE

Phone: 736-2241

Fontana

Star-Spangled Spectacular

Fontana High School Stadium

9453 Citrus Ave.

Games, Entertainment, Food, Fireworks Show

5:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

$2.00 per person or $5.00 for Family of Four

Phone: 428-8360 x 222

Indio

Empire Polo Club

81-800 Avenue 51

6:30 p.m. – Live entertainment, games, and contests

Fireworks after dark

Admission free, Parking $3.00

760-342-6532, 760-342-6500 x 597

Indio The 12th annual Indio 4th of July Festival

Is scheduled to be held at the Riverside County Fair & National Date Festival Fairgrounds on July 4.

The festival will feature live entertainment, recreational activities, games, water slides, food, beverages and fireworks.

The festival is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m. with the fireworks at 9 p.m. Parking is $5. 760-342-6532

Lake Elsinore

On Lake Elsinore

8:00 p.m. – Patriotic Boat Parade of Lights

9:30 p.m. – Fireworks off the levee

Phone: 674-3124 ext. 265

Norco

27th Annual Country Jamboree Display

Norco Community Center

3900 Acacia Ave.

12:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m.

Activities, Food and Beverages, Bands

Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m.

Phone: 270-5632

Moreno Valley

Independence Day Parade

N. Frederick St. Ending on W. Town gate Blvd.

July 4th at 9:30 a.m.

Floats and Band

Phone: 413-3280

Moreno Valley

Annual July Fourth Family Fun Fest

Mountain View Middle School

13130 Morrison St.

5:30 p.m. – Band

7:30 p.m. – 60’s and 70’s Music

9:00 p.m. – Fireworks

Phone: 413-3280

Ontario

Independence Day Parade

On Euclid Ave.

Euclid Median – Craft Show, Bands in Bandstand

11:00 a.m. – All-States Picnic: Come meet people from your state!

9:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m.

Phone: 395-2020

Ontario

West wind Park

2425 Riverside Dr.

Live entertainment, rides, games start at 5:00 p.m.

Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m.

Phone: 395-2020

Palm Desert

Civic Center Park

73510 Fred Waring Dr.

7:30 p.m. – Steve Madaio Concert

Fireworks go from 9:00 p.m.-9:30 p.m.

760-346-0611

Palm Springs

Palm Springs Stadium

1901 E. Baristo Rd.

6:00 p.m. – Gates Open

Blues Concert at 7:00 p.m.

Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m.

760-333-8694

Ramona

Ramona Oaks Park

25386 Pappas Rd.

10:00 a.m. – Parade

Games, Food, Entertainment

760-789-4146

Olive Pierce Middle School

1521 Hanson Lane

Fireworks start at Dusk

760-789-0999

Redlands

Sylvan Park

Section A on University Street near University of Redlands

11:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.

Food, Games, and Music

Parade starts at 4:00 p.m. and marches around the park

Pre-Sale General Admission - $6.00, Children 5 and Under FREE

General Admission at the Gate - $8.00

6:00 p.m. – Gates open at University of Redlands Stadium

7:00 p.m. – Live Show and Opening Ceremony

Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m.

Phone: 748-0637 (24hr Info Line)

Phone: 792-6666

Riverside

Mount Rubidoux

Fireworks show at 9:00 p.m.

La Sierra Park
5215 La Sierra

Fireworks show at 9:00 p.m.

Riverside Sports Complex

$2.00 per person

Children 4 and under free

Gates open at 6:00 p.m.

6:30 p.m. – Musical Entertainment

7:00 p.m. – Roving Entertainment

8:00 p.m. – Riverside Concert Band

9:00 p.m. – Fireworks Show

Phone: 826-2000

Riverside Fourth of July Celebration

The Jurupa Area Recreation and Park District (J.A.R.P.D.) are scheduled to hold the 11th Annual Fireworks Spectacular from 5 to 9:30 p.m. July 4 at Agate Park, 8623 Jurupa Road, Riverside. The public is invited to a day filled with fireworks, food, games, and music. The JARPD needs volunteers and vendors. Information: 951-361-2090.

San Bernardino

4th of July Parade

Start at 8th and E Street, Ends at Rialto and E Street

10:00 a.m.

Phone: 384-5133

Single A Baseball

Inland Empire’s 66er’s of San Bernardino vs. Lake Elsinore Storm

Arrowhead Credit Union Park

6:05 p.m.

Fireworks after the game

Phone: 888-9922

San Jacinto

Estudillo Mansion

3:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m.

Parade starts at 6:00 p.m.

Flyovers and Air Show

Entertainment and evening concert

Information:

Tracie Cochrane Phone: 765-0115

Stephany Borders Phone: 925-6897

Temecula

Star Spangled Parade

Old Town Front Street between Moreno Road & Second Street

Parade starts 2:00 p.m.

Family Fun at the Park

Rancho California Sports Park

30875 Rancho Vista Rd.

4:00 p.m.-10:00 p.m.

Live Entertainment, Food Court, Craft Booths, Fun Zone for Kids

Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m.

Phone: 694-6480

Victorville

Annual Fireworks Show At Fairgrounds

San Bernardino County Fairgrounds

Gates open at 4:00 p.m.

Carnival Games, Activities, and Music

Fireworks start at 9:00 p.m.

760-955-5256

July 4th – Orange County

Fullerton 4th of July Festival and Fireworks Show

The city of Fullerton celebrates Independence Day at the Fullerton High School Stadium ...

7/4/2011 Monday 5:00p to 9:00p

Fullerton Union High School Stadium, Fullerton CA

San Clemente Fireworks Show

At approximately 9 p.m. the City of San Clemente continues its annual tradition ...

7/4/2011 Monday 9:00p

Municipal Pier, San Clemente CA

Independence Day Celebration

The event begins with a 5K run/walk at 8 am. We will have a pancake breakfast from ...

7/4/2011 Monday 10:00a

Memorial Park, Claremont CA

Yorba Linda Annual Fourth of July Spectacular

Entertainment begins at 5 p.m. Bring your own lawn chair. Food, music, and fantastic ...

7/4/2011 Monday 5:00p

Yorba Linda Middle School, Yorba Linda CA

Orange 3rd of July Celebration

3rd of July celebration at Fred Kelly Stadium will include food booths, interactive ...

7/3/2011 Sunday 4:00p to 9:00p

Fred Kelly Stadium, Orange CA

Dana Point 4th of July Fireworks Cruises

Come aboard one of our beautiful boats for a special 4th of July Fireworks Display ...

7/4/2011 Monday 8:00p to 9:30p

Dana Wharf Sportfishing & Whale Watching, Dana Point CA

Growing the Park

Highlights the diversity of the Great Park and embraces agricultural heritage, military ...

7/9/2011 Saturday 3:00p to 9:30p

Orange County Great Park, Irvine CA

AVCA July 4th Celebration & Fireworks

Join us for a fun-filled July 4th Celebration at Grand Park beginning at 6 p.m. ...

7/4/2011 Monday 6:00p to 9:30p

Grand Park, Aliso Viejo CA

Santa Ana Independence Day Celebration

Bring your lawn chair, blanket, and picnic basket for a fun filled evening of patriot ...

7/3/2011 Sunday 6:00p to 9:30p

Centennial Park, Santa Ana CA

Laguna Hills 4th of July Celebration!

Come join the City of Laguna Hills as we celebrate our nation’s birthday. Bring your ...

7/4/2011 Monday 4:00p to 9:00p

Laguna Hills Community Center & Sports Complex, Laguna Hills CA

Fantasmic

Mickey's active imagination sets the stage on the Rivers of America for Fantasmic ...

6/13/2011 Monday 9:05p

(repeats 571 times)

Disneyland, Anaheim CA

Cypress Freedom Festival at Navy Golf Course

Doors open at 4 p.m. and the fireworks show begins at 9 p.m. Active duty, retirees ...

7/4/2011 Monday 4:00p to 10:00p

Navy Golf Course, Cypress CA

107th Annual Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade

Join us for the Annual Huntington Beach 4th of July Parade! The 107th annual parade ...

7/4/2011 Monday 11:00a to 10:00p

Downtown Huntington Beach, Huntington Beach CA

4th of July Party on the Pier

Celebrate our nations birthday with a party on the Pier, music, food and arts and ...

7/4/2011 Monday 11:00a

Belmont Veterans Memorial Pier, Long Beach CA

Queen Mary BBQ, Brews and Red, White & Blues

The Queen Mary Independence Day celebration will be an old-fashioned BBQ with Carolina ...

7/3/2011 Sunday 1:00a to 9:00p

The Queen Mary, Long Beach CA

Huntington Beach Annual 4th of July Weekend Celebration

Don't miss out on Huntington Beach's three-day 4th of July Celebration! Saturday ...

7/2/2011 Saturday 10:00a to 9:00p

(repeats 5 times)

Downtown Huntington Beach, Huntington Beach CA

IMPORTANT: Event times, locations and pricing have not been individually verified; we suggest calling the event organizers directly. E-mail us info@mycitycorona.com for event information correction.

CHECK INLANDDAILY.COM FOR UPDATED 2013 EVENTS!!!

Corona, CA: Assemblyman Jeff Miller to run for Congress

Secures Major Endorsements, including Senator Bill Emmerson

Republican Assemblyman Jeff Miller announced today that he will be a candidate for Congress, assuming there are no major changes to the new congressional seat created in Riverside County by the Citizens Redistricting Commission.

“Representing our area in Congress would be a great honor, but more importantly, it will give me the opportunity to work at the national level on creating jobs, reducing debt and protecting taxpayers,” said Miller. “I have represented much of this new district over the last ten years as a Mayor, County Party Chairman and member of the Assembly and am very pleased to have significant support from the district.”

Already, Miller has been endorsed by the district's State Senator, Bill Emmerson, and a majority of Mayors in the district and leaders in law enforcement, the Hispanic community, and employers from across the district, which stretches from Corona in the West, to Moreno Valley in the East.

Among the endorsements Jeff Miller announced today were Norco Mayor Berwin Hanna, Mayor Pro Tem Kevin Bash, Council Member Kathy Azevedo, Council Member Greg Newton, and Council Member Harvey Sullivan, along with Corona City Mayor Pro Tem Eugene Montanez and Eastvale City Council Member Kelly Howell.

A 25 year successful businessman and business owner, Miller served as both the Mayor and a Councilman in Corona before his election to the State Assembly in 2008. Miller's community service began in 1995 when he was appointed as a Parks Commissioner in Corona. As a member of the Riverside County Transportation Commission, Jeff became one of the region's leading experts on transportation issues, and has also served on the Western Riverside Council of Governments since 2001, serving as Chairman from 2005-2007. Believing that public safety is the first priority of government, Jeff became the first statewide Co-Chair of the Jessica's Law campaign in 2005, helping protect children from sexual predators by ushering in the most sweeping overhaul of the state's penal code in a generation.

Corona, CA: Federal loan sought to fund Highway 91 project

The final piece of funding for a $1.3 billion project to add lanes to Highway 91 in Corona will come from a highly competitive federal loan program, Riverside County transportation officials hope.

Transportation planners, elected officials and local business leaders are banding together to encourage U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood and California Sens. Barbara Boxer and Dianne Feinstein to support their plans for $400 million from a loan program created by the Transportation Infrastructure Finance and Innovation Act. The federal loan program is meant to give agencies a low-interest way to pay for major construction projects.

Up to 33 percent of a project's funding can be borrowed, though the terms of the loan program can vary. Less federal money could be committed, but used to leverage private loans. In the case of the 91 project, $443 million would be the maximum local officials could borrow, said John Standiford, deputy director of the Riverside County Transportation Commission.

If approved, the federal loan gives the commission the final funding needed to extend two toll lanes from the Orange County line to Interstate 15, and a general use lane from the county line to Pierce Street in Riverside. Construction is scheduled to begin next year.

Securing the federal loan is critical to keeping that schedule, officials said. They are turning in a pre-application -- basically a request to get invited to submit an official application.

"We have to tell our story in 20 pages," said Anne Mayer, executive director of the transportation commission. "We have to sell our story."

The proposal is due to federal officials on March 1. Last year, about $1.2 billion in loans were available nationally. If the amount remains constant, there will be intense competition for the money, local officials said.

Part of making the pitch for the toll lanes, outlined in letters to Boxer, Feinstein and LaHood from the Monday Morning Group -- a cadre of local business leaders -- is the region's high unemployment rate and the job creating potential of the project. Officials estimate 800 permanent jobs will be created by the project, as businesses locate along the 91 corridor. Adding the lanes will also reduce congestion, officials believe.

The benefits make it a perfect choice for a federal loan, aimed at helping improve infrastructure, officials said.

The loan also demonstrates local officials believe the project will pay for itself, via the tolls collected from using the express lanes, similar to those already in Orange County.

The federal money is a loan, which means it must be repaid, but with very favorable terms, said Corey Boock, a lawyer helping manage the funding plan for the transportation commission. The TIFIA interest rate varies by day, but was 4.7 percent on Friday, according to the Federal Highway Administration.

The remainder of the project will be funded through the sale of bonds, backed by the toll revenues. County sales tax money can also be used to add the general purpose lane to the 91.

LIVE Video feed from the Corona/Yorba Linda, CA Fire!

Hearthside Lane in Corona in default!

Potential buyers beware

One of the new communities in Eastvale is in trouble. Irvine builder California Coastal Communities is in default on a loan that is secured by several properties. One of those is Hearthside Lane in Corona. They are currently negotiating with the lender to turn over these properties to them. So it you are currently looking at a Hearthside home you might want to hold off. There's no telling what will happen once the lender takes the project.

Here's part of the press release

Impairment charges of $29.1 million recorded during the third quarter of 2008 primarily reflect fair value write-downs for the Hearthside Lane project in Corona and Las Colinas project in Lancaster of $24.1 million and $1.5 million, respectively, and a $3.4 million charge related to our Woodhaven project in Beaumont. Subsidiaries of Hearthside Homes, Inc. are currently in default on the loans secured by the Hearthside Lane and Las Colinas projects and they are attempting to negotiate a consensual resolution of the loans which is likely to involve turnover of the properties securing these loans to the lender. Therefore, under GAAP the Company was required to reduce the carrying value of the Hearthside Lane and Las Colinas projects to their estimated fair values during the quarter ended September 30, 2008. After these impairment charges, the related debt exceeds the carrying value of these assets by approximately $18.5 million. If the Hearthside Lane property is transferred to the lender in full settlement of that loan, the Company will recognize a substantial gain as a result of debt cancellation. If the gain is equal to the amount that the recorded debt exceeds the carrying value of the assets, the $18.5 million pretax gain would result in a gain of $10.9 million after tax, or $1.00 per share. Both of these loans are guaranteed by Hearthside Homes, Inc.; however, they are not guaranteed by and do not otherwise constitute obligations of California Coastal Communities, Inc. There can be no assurance that the lender will agree to a consensual resolution of these loans.

Halloween Listings for Riverside, San Bernardino and Orange County!

RIVERSIDE COUNTY

AN EVENING OF SPOOKY MUSIC features Linda Corbitt and Chris Marsh, 8 p.m. Oct. 31, First Congregational Church of Riverside, 3504 Mission Inn Ave., Riverside, 951-686-1756 .

PET PARADE SPOOKTACULA AND BLESSING OF THE ANIMALS, presented by the Animal Friends of the Valleys, noon-4 p.m. Oct. 25, Bel Villagio Plaza, at the Promenade Mall, 41493 Margarita Road, Temecula, 951-805-7911, 951-471-8344.

CASTLE DARK MONSTER BASH features "The Facility of Screams," "Terror on the Track's," "Trick-or-Treat Trail" and more, 7 p.m.-close Fridays-Sundays through Oct. 31, Castle Park, 3500 Polk St., Riverside, for one attraction $6.99-$9.99, Terror Combo, $13.99, with ride wristband $22.99, 951-785-3000.

DOG-TOBER-FEST features K-9 costume contest, weiner dog fun run, chili cook-off, demonstrations, pet adoptions and more, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Skip Fordyce Harley-Davidson & Buel Dealership, 7688 Indiana Ave., Riverside, 951-358-7334.

FAMILY NIGHT AT THE HAUNTED MUSEUM TOUR, approximately 10-15 minute tours between 7-9 p.m. Wednesday and Oct. 29, Imagination Workshop, Temecula Children's Museum, 42081 Main St., Old Town Temecula, $5, recommended for children 10 and younger, 951-308-6376.

GHOSTWALK presented by the California Riverside Ballet, a ghostly walking tour every 20 minutes between 5:40-11 p.m. Oct. 24-25, starting at the Main Street Mall, downtown Riverside, $10, children younger than 5 free, 951-787-7850.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL, 5-8 p.m. Oct. 30, Nichols Park, 5505 Dewey Ave., Riverside, 951-351-6130.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL. 5-8 p.m. Oct. 24, Bobby Bonds Park, 2060 University Ave., Riverside, 951-826-2000.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL, 5-8 p.m. Oct. 25, Hunt Park, 4015 Jackson St., Riverside, 951-351-6132.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL, 5-9 p.m. Oct. 30, Villegas Park, 7240 Marguerita Ave., Riverside, 951-351-6142.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL, 5-8 p.m. Oct. 30, La Sierra Park, 5215 La Sierra Ave., Riverside, 951-351-6131.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL, 4-9 p.m. Oct. 25, Reid Park, 701 N. Orange St., Riverside, 951-826-5654.

HALLOWEEN CARNIVAL, 5-8 p.m. Oct. 31, Bryant Park, 7950 Philbin Ave., Riverside, 951-351-6135.

HALLOWEEN FAMILY CARNIVAL featuring costume and screaming contests, carnival games, tattoo artist and more, 5-9 p.m. Oct. 24, Ronald Reagan Sports Park Roller Hockey Arena, 30875 Rancho Vista Road, Temecula, $5 unlimited wristband, 951-694-6480.

HALLOWEEN SAFE TRICK-OR-TREAT, Halloween Party & Costume Contest, children 12 and younger, 6-9 p.m. Oct. 31, Riverside Plaza , 3545 Central Ave., Riverside, 951-683-1066.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR features haunted house, carnival games, trick-or-treat bags for all kids and more, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Oct. 25, California Oaks Sports Park, 40600 California Oaks Road, Murrieta, free, 951-304-7275.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR features costume contest for kids, storytime and more, 2 p.m. Oct. 25, Borders, 3615 Riverside Plaza, Riverside, 951-222-0313.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR features costume contest for kids, storytime and more, 2 p.m. Oct. 25, Borders, 12423 Limonite, Mira Loma, 951-361-2650.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR features costume contest for kids, storytime and more, 2 p.m. Oct. 25, Borders, 71-800 Highway 111, Rancho Mirage, 760-779-1314.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR features haunted house, carnival games, trick-or-treat bags for all kids and more, 5:30-8:30 p.m. Oct. 25, California Oaks Sports Park, 40600 California Oaks Road, Murrieta, free, 951-304-7275.

HARVEST FESITVAL & CANDY CARNIVAL features obstacle course, climbing wall, costume parade and more, 11:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Oct. 25, Civic Center Gym & City Hall South Plaza, Corona, 951-736-2241.

HARVEST FESTIVAL, safe and healthy family life styles expo, features Halloween marionette show, costume contest, game booths entertainment and more, 4-8:30 p.m. Oct. 25, Perris Health Clinic parking lot, 308 E. San Jacinto Ave. and Perris Sheriff/Police Parking lot 137 N. Perris Blvd., Perris, 951-943-6603.

THE HAUNTED MUSEUM, recommended for teens and adults, 7-10 p.m. Thursday-Oct. 25, Oct. 30-Nov. 1, Imagination Workshop, Temecula Children's Museum, 42081 Main St., Old Town Temecula, $8, 951-308-6376.

HAUNTED OLD TOWN features horrific mazes, demonic dancers, ghosts walks and more, 8 p.m. Thursday-Oct. 25, Oct. 30-31 and Nov. 1, four block of Old Town Temecula, $25, VIP $35, 951-694-6412.

HOWL-O-WEEN HARVEST HAPPENING featuring pumpkin patch, children's activities Howl-O-Ween Scavenger Hunt, entertainment and more, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 25, the Living Desert Zoo and Gardens, 47-900 Portola Ave., Palm Desert, $12.50, children $7.50, 760-346-5694.

LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS, 7:30 p.m. today, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 and 7 p.m. Sunday, 2 p.m. Oct. 25, 2 and 7 p.m. Oct. 26, 2 p.m. Nov. 1-2, Old Town Temecula Community Theatre, 42051 Main St., Temecula, $10-$20, 866-653-8696.

MAZE OF TERROR, 6 p.m. Oct. 28-31, Beaumont Civic Center, 550 E. Sixth St., Beaumont, free, 951-769-8524.

PUMPKIN TRAINS, ride the Pumpkin Train to the pumpkin patch, pick your own pumpkin and then ride train back to museum, 10:30 a.m., 1 and 3:30 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Orange Empire Railway Museum, 2201 S. A St., Perris, $20, children 5-11 $15, price includes pumpkin of your choice, reservations suggested, 951-943-3020.

TOXIC TERRORS HAUNTED STADIUM, 7 p.m.-midnight Fridays-Saturdays, 7-10:30 p.m. Thursdays and Sundays through Nov. 2, not recommended for children younger than 10, $15, VIP $25, Lake Elsinore Storm Stadium, 500 Diamond Drive, Lake Elsinore, 951-253-4256.

SAN BERNARDINO COUNTY

"BAT BOY: THE MUSICAL," 9 p.m. Oct. 31, Chaffey College Theatre, 5885 Haven Ave., Rancho Cucamonga. $12, seniors and students $10, 909-652-6067.

HAUNTED HILLS CAR AND MOTORCYCLE SHOW features music, drawing, food and more, 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 25, Chino Hills High School, 16150 Pomona Rincon Road, Chino Hills, 909-393-2420

GHOST HAUNT features Maggie's Haunted Mine, costume contests, live music and magic shows, ghost walk and more, today-Sunday and Oct. 24-26, Calico Ghost Town, 36600 Calico Ghost Town road, Yermo, off Interstate 15 north of Barstow, $10, children 6-15 $5, children 5 and younger free, two day tickets $15, children 6-15 $8, 800-862-2542.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR features costume contest for kids, storytime and more, 2 p.m. Oct. 25, Borders, 3833 Grand Ave., Chino, 909-548-3604.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR features costume contest for kids, storytime and more, 2 p.m. Oct. 25, Borders, 5055 S. Plaza Lane, Montclair, 909-625-0424.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR features costume contest for kids, storytime and more, 2 p.m. Oct. 25, Borders, 12370 S. Main St., Rancho Cucamonga, 909-646-7322.

HALLOWEEN SPOOKTACULAR features entertainment, trick-or-treating, spooky games, haunted carnival and more, 3-8 p.m. Oct. 31, Chino Spectrum, Grand Avenue, 909-464-8369.

HAUNT & GLOW CAR SHOW featuring car show, children and adult costume contests and more, 4-8 p.m. Saturday, please bring donation for Second Harvest Food & Clothing Drive, Campus Crossroads Shopping Center, 5244 University Parkway, San Bernardino, 909-864-3143, 909-856-2621.

HAUNTED HIKE, guided hike on "haunted" trail, 7-9 p.m. Oct. 24, the McCoy Equestrian Center, 14280 Peyton Drive, Chino Hills, $5, recommended for children six and older, 909-364-2700.

NIGHTMARE BEFORE HALLOWEEN BELLYDANCE BASH features 20 plus belly dance performances, henna tattoos and more, 2:30-6 p.m. Sunday, Cal State San Bernardino, 5500 University Parkway, San Bernardino, $10, children younger than 12 $6, 909-537-5884.

TRICK-OR-TREAT AT THE SHOPPES features trick-or-treating, craft projects, face painting and costume contest, 2-4:30 p.m. Oct. 31, the Shoppes, 13920 City Center Drive, Chino Hills, free, 909-364-2700.

ORANGE COUNTY

CAMP SPOOKY HALLOWEEN TREASURE HUNT, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Saturdays-Sundays through Oct. 26,Knott's Berry Farm, 8039 Beach Blvd., Buena Park, $51.99, Southern California resident $41.99, seniors 62 and older and children 3-11 $22.99, discount tickets offered, visit www.knotts.com for information, 714-220-5200.

DISCOVERY SCIENCE CENTER presents "Spooky Science - Masters of the Night: The True Story of Bats," 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily through Nov. 2, 2500 N. Main St., Santa Ana, $12.95, children 3-17 $9.95, 714-542-2823.

DISNEYLAND features "Mickey's Trick-or-Treat Party," 6:30-10:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays, 7:30-11:30 p.m. Fridays, today, Wednesday-Oct. 24, 28-31, $29, Halloween night $37; Halloween Time with "Haunted Mansion Holiday".

Corona, CA OC sheriff's deputy charged with illegal Taser use

An Orange County sheriff's deputy has pleaded not guilty to illegally using a Taser on a handcuffed suspect in the back of a patrol car.

Prosecutors say Christopher Hibbs of Corona is charged with felony assault or battery by a public officer and assault with a Taser.

Prosecutors allege Hibbs used the Taser on Ignacio Gomez Lares on Sept. 13, 2007, when the man didn't give Hibbs his full name.

Hibbs' defense attorney, Robert Gazley, says his client was within the law when he used the Taser. Hibbs, who is on unpaid leave, faces up to three years in prison if convicted.

Sheriff's spokesman Jim Amormino says the charges mark the first time a deputy has been accused of illegal use of a Taser since the department started using them about four years ago.

91 Express Lanes to reduce some tolls; about damn time!

Editors Note: This is more of a back-lash of corporate greed on the part of the OCTA, taking advantage of Inland residents. 50 cents is a start but ultimately will not be enough since the OCTA raised rates at triple and quadruple the rate of rising gas prices and other expenses. I recommend all Inland drivers reading this put serious thought into alternative means of travel outside of the 91 Express Lanes; carpool, Metrolink, etc.

Some tolls on the 91 Express Lanes will fall by 50 cents Wednesday to reflect reduced traffic flows amid higher unemployment in Orange County and the Inland Empire, the Orange County Transportation Authority said.

Tolls on the 91 Express Lanes change hourly. The planned toll cuts affect 14 hours during the week, all on afternoon eastbound commutes.

The top toll, currently $10 for an eastbound drive between 3 and 4 p.m. Fridays, will fall to $9.50. The new high toll will be $9.55 for the hour between 4 and 5 p.m. Thursdays.

Under OCTA's congestion management pricing policy, tolls are managed to assure a free flow of traffic in the 91 Express Lanes at all times, said Joel Zlotnik, an OCTA spokesman.

It's the first time since OCTA introduced congestion management pricing in July 2003 that some tolls have fallen. Traffic is monitored daily and tolls are adjusted quarterly.

Zlotnik pointed out that the unemployment rate in the Inland Empire rose to 9.2 percent in August from 6.4 percent a year earlier. In Orange County, the unemployment rate was 5.8 percent in August, up from 4.2 percent a year earlier.

"With fewer jobs, we're seeing fewer people use the Express Lanes," he said. "As the economy dips, we're going to see a dip in usage."

This is how OCTA's congestion management pricing works, according to Zlotnik:

• If traffic volume falls below 2,720 vehicles in any hour in six of 12 consecutive weeks, tolls for that hour are reduced by 50 cents.

• If volume rises above 3,200 vehicles in any hour in six of 12 consecutive weeks, tolls for that hour are raised.

The minimum toll is $1.25.

To see the new toll schedule, go to www.octa.net/91tolls

Corona, CA: Mater Dei can't keep up with Centennial this time

Barkley has a rough night as the Monarchs are beaten on both sides of the ball.

Friday night's nonleague game between Centennial of Corona and Mater Dei turned into another track meet.

This time, however, the Huskies were the ones celebrating at the finish line. The Huskies (2-0), behind a balanced offense, exacted a bit of revenge against the Monarchs (2-1) with a 47-35 home victory at Santa Ana Stadium in front of an estimated crowd of 7,500.

"I thought it was a continuation of last year's game," Centennial coach Matt Logan said."Our defense played great in the second half to hold them to just that one score."

This year's game didn't have the video game-like numbers of last year's meeting, when the teams combined for more than 1,300 total yards. The Monarchs won last year's meeting that game, 51-37, also played at Santa Ana Stadium. The teams combined for 966 total yards Friday.

"Very physical, very fast," was how Mater Dei coach Bruce Rollinson described Centennial.

The Huskies were the designated home team and made themselves feel right at home from the outset.

Much of that physical play was evident in the Huskies ground attack, led by senior running back Arthur Burns. Burns, who was a backup to Ryan Bass (Arizona St.) last year, performed like a star against the Monarchs. He rushed for 234 yards on 29 carries and four touchdowns. (Bass rushed for 350 yards last year against the Monarchs.)

Centennial displayed its defensive plan early in the game when they sacked Mater Dei quarterback Matt Barkley on the third play.

Offensively, the Huskies scored on their first possession in 18 seconds by going 47 yards on two plays, and they didn't seem to be stopped seemed to be unstoppable after that .It all added up to a long night for Barkley and the county's top-ranked team Mater Dei Monarchs.

Barkley completed 23 of 45 passes for 412 yards. He threw three touchdowns passes but was intercepted three times. He was also sacked three times.

The Huskies were able to get to Barkley throughout the game and forced him into several rushed throws. Mater Dei was again forced to play without junior offensive lineman Chris Ward, who is out because of a knee injury.

Centennial went into halftime with a 33-28 lead. It opened the second half with a five-play, 68-yard drive that ended on a 3-yard run by Burns to put the Monarchs back on their heels.

The defense held the Monarchs scoreless in the second half until a 3-yard touchdown pass from Barkley to Derek Campbell with 3:12 left in the game.

This was second time in the first three games this season that Mater Dei has allowed an opponent to score at least 40 points.

Mater Dei allowed 43 points to Carson in its season opener, Sept. 3.The Monarchs play host to L.A. Jordan next Thursday.

Corona, CA Brunch (A Blogger's Perspective)

My friend Sharon and I drove east to Riverside County today for brunch at the new Taps. The restaurant got its start in Brea and now has a sister location in the Dos Lagos Promenade. The mall has high-end stores, which I would have explored but we ran out of time.

Brunch was plentiful, as expected. Sharon is a Taps veteran and has worked with a few of the Corona staff during her days at the Brea location. It was nice for her to reconnect with some familiar faces. I enjoyed the view of the fake lake and sipped a little champagne.

Highlights for me included bananas foster on my waffle, and later, steamed mussels and clams. Breakfast fare was mostly average, but their seafood bar is quite good. Sharon had the raw oysters; I passed.

Would I drive out there again for the food? Probably not. But the mall might be worth a second look … Perhaps on a day when the mercury wasn’t once again heading toward triple digits. (I couldn’t find the second lake.)

Next up, a concert in Los Angeles. I have an hour to relax and then I’m driving north.

I hope everyone out there is having a great weekend. My dog, Katy, is at the beach with her best four-legged friends, courtesy of Aunt Christine and Bobby. I’m slightly envious. The water would feel great, and I love watching the dogs romp at the beach. It’s like their Disneyland.

GAS PRICES!!!!

Gas prices range from $4.21 in Murrieta to $4.79 in Beaumont…what’s the answer to spiking prices?

CA: New Faces in Legislative Races

In another closely watched election, Corona Mayor Jeff Miller was beating Rancho Santa Margarita Mayor Neil Blais in the Republican primary for the 71st Assembly District. The 71st includes parts of both Riverside and Orange counties, but has been represented by an Orange County resident for years. GOP insiders were eager to continue the county’s dominance over the district.