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.

Corona, CA: ARTS FUSION is Back! Starting This Monday! Spread the Word!

STARTING THIS MONDAY!

AGES: 5-18

ACTING - VOICE - DANCE

Just wanted to let you know that our workshop starts next week in Corona.

Help spread the word!

8 weeks, Mondays, two-hour classes, exciting young teachers with International teaching and performing experience!

Price breaks for multiple kids enrolled. REGISTER ONLINE NOW!

http://www.iconarts.org/

Deadline is Friday at midnight! Don’t Miss Out!

Corona, CA: Arraignment set for driver who allegedly killed Orland girl

A Southern California woman is expected to be arraigned April 22 on a charge of second-degree murder in connection with the death of Orland resident Rachel Amaris Elliott, 18.

After her graduation from Orland High School in 2007, Elliott was living with family members in Southern California and attending college.

On the night of Feb. 21, 2008, while driving on Knabe Road in Corona, Elliott's car was hit head-on by a sport utility vehicle driven by Corona resident Elva Diaz, then 31, who was allegedly drunk.

Elliott's father, Steve Elliott of Orland, said an investigation showed Diaz was traveling at 76 mph one second before the crash. The speed limit on Knabe is 45 mph.

Elliott, driving a smaller sedan, was critically injured and rushed to a local hospital, where she died hours later.

Diaz was arrested, but posted bail and fled to Mexico shortly before a trial in the case was set to begin.

She was eventually found and returned to the United States to face charges.

According to officials, Diaz is a U.S. citizen originally from West Covina.

Steve Elliott said he accompanied several other family members to Riverside last week, when a superior court judge ruled during a preliminary hearing there was enough evidence in the case for Diaz to stand trial.

Diaz, now 35, is a former paramedic. Under a California law called a Watson Advisement, officials have the option of charging her with second-degree murder, rather than vehicular manslaughter, because her employment should have made her aware of the dangers of drinking and driving.

According to the crash investigation, Diaz had been advised not to drive away from a bar where she had allegedly been drinking heavily the night of the crash.

If convicted of the charge, Diaz faces 15 years to life in prison.

"It is the state's case, but they have conferred with us every step of the way," Elliott said. "It's mostly to see if we have the will to see this case through to the end. Most of our discussions have centered around the second-degree murder charge," he said.

Elliott said Diaz appeared in court during the latest hearing, and seemed to be alone except for her court-appointed attorney. She is being held on bail of $5 million at the Riverside County Jail.

He said he couldn't see the woman's face in the court room, but noted that he had seen her face in previous court appearances. He commented that she showed no emotion, and carefully avoided eye contact with the victim's relatives.

Elliott said he expects Diaz to enter a plea of not guilty at her arraignment. He said a trial date could be set at that time.

Since their daughter's death, Steve and Jill Elliott have devoted much of their time to seeking justice for Rachel, and spreading the message that drinking and driving accidents are tragedies that can be avoided.

Jill has been asked to speak at the "Every 15 Minutes" program at Orland High in May. She may also speak during a similar presentation at Oroville High School. The program emphasizes the dangers of drinking and driving and includes staging a roadway crash on campus in which students are "killed."

Elliott was also scheduled to speak at Willows High School on April 21, but that program was canceled following the death of 2009 graduates Melissa Ellithorp and Nicolina Milani in a recent head-on crash in Glenn County.

In 2007, the last year Orland High presented "Every 15 Minutes," Rachel Elliott was a major participant.

Corona, CA: US Lighting Tech to Deploy New Energy Efficient Street Lighting for the City of Corona, CA

US Lighting Tech, the leader in induction lighting, was selected by the municipality of Corona, Calif. to deploy a new energy efficient street lighting solution throughout the city. Corona chose USLT, which is based in Irvine, Calif., as its street lighting partner because of USLT’s commitment to delivering products that outperform conventional, industrial grade lighting systems in terms of functionality, energy efficiency, maintenance and ease of installation.

Corona’s move to utilize USLT’s Cobra Series induction lighting for its municipality-wide public street lighting project is part of a broader initiative designed to bring greener, more cost-effective solutions to the city. By installing the energy efficient street lights, Corona can expect to significantly save in energy costs and maintenance costs over the lifetime of the installation – while also reducing toxic landfill waste from the more frequent re-lampings required by the existing technology.

“The City of Corona selected USLT based on the strength of our company’s performance history as the leader within the energy efficient lighting category,” said Richard Ham, president of USLT. “For municipal-sized projects and the support they need, experience matters.”

USLT is the first and only manufacturer in the world that has shipped more than 130,000 of its induction street lights and already has 110,000 street lights installed on real world streets and neighborhoods.

Corona, CA: Saleen's SMS Adds 302 White Label and Yellow Label Mustangs

Just the Facts:

Steve Saleen's SMS Supercars expands its portfolio with the addition of its 302 White and Yellow Label Mustangs.

The SMS 302 White Label Mustang is priced from $35,540, while the 302 Yellow Label Mustang starts at $45,540.

An ultimate SMS 302 Black Label Mustang is planned, but is not yet priced.

Steve Saleen's SMS Supercars is expanding its muscle-car portfolio with the addition of the new 302 White and Yellow Label Mustangs, priced from $35,540 and $45,540, respectively. An ultimate SMS 302 Black Label Mustang is also planned, but is not yet priced.

SMS said the White, Yellow and Black Label Mustangs represent Steve Saleen's former racing colors. The 62-year-old Californian raced earlier in his career, including stints in Formula Atlantic, Trans-Am and SCCA World Challenge.

The basic 302 White Label Mustang features a 440-horsepower naturally aspirated V8, with performance suspension and exhaust, interior upgrades and an exterior aero kit. The midlevel 302 Yellow Label Mustang adds 19-inch SMS wheels and performance tires, plus a 545-hp supercharged engine.

The 302 Black Label Mustang packages the S4 suspension, leather interior, more aero exterior bits and a higher-output 575-hp engine.

Inside Line says: Saleen says SMS will launch its new 620 and 620X Camaros in summer 2012.

Corona, CA: Small Plane Slams into Hangar at Corona Airport

A flight instructor and his student were injured today when the single-engine airplane they were piloting crashed into a hangar during takeoff from Corona Municipal Airport.

The accident happened just before 9 a.m. on the west end of the field. Witnesses reported the two-seat Cessna 150 Aerobat was doing touch-and-go landings when it suddenly veered off the runway and flew into the closed hangar, nosing straight into the doors.

Both aviators were injured, one seriously. The victims, whose names were not released, were transported to separate hospitals for treatment.

No one on the ground was hurt.

Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Ian Gregor said it wasn't immediately clear who was at the controls when the Cessna crashed.

He said the National Transportation Safety Board is investigating the accident.

The plane, manufactured in 1974, is registered to a Cheyenne, Wyoming- based investment firm and may be one of the fleet of aircraft operated by a flying club at the airport.

Corona, CA: Removing Permanent Mistakes for Good in Corona

Laser tattoo removal in Corona, CA, spreads Tat2BeGone Medical Group's mission in Southern California.

Tat2BeGone Medical Group, an award-winning laser tattoo removal center in Costa Mesa, opens its doors to a second location on April 9, 2011 in Corona, California, to do what they do best: remove mistakes of the past.

With 10 years experience successfully removing unwanted tattoos, hair, active acne and acne scars for more than 14,000 patients, Dr. Douglas Mest (owner and medical director) and team are set to remove more ink and embarrassing blemishes in Southern California.

Their reputation for success goes beyond laser tattoo removal and into the personal realm. “Everyone deserves a second chance,” states Jerry Lorito, Vice President of Operations. “It’s time to provide a vehicle necessary for individuals willing to change their life for the better.”

Along with solving the problem of tattoo remorse, Tat2BeGone works with community programs and offers special discounts for students, military personnel and qualifying professions, including education, law enforcement and more.

What’s the secret to Tat2BeGone’s success? Education. All patients receive an initial consultation (without charge) to discuss expectations, results, cost and appropriate timing for a successful treatment program.

The company’s “customer first” mentality has been acknowledged repeatedly, winning back-to-back awards for #1 Tattoo Removal Laser Center in Costa Mesa for 2009 and 2010 from the United States Commerce Association.

“Receiving the award two years in a row reflects the dedication our employees have for tattoo removal and our patients,” states Lorito. “We offer a cost-effective way to remove tattoos in an atmosphere of safety, convenience, comfort and dignity, and now it’s time to bring those services to Corona.”

Corona, CA: Watson Designates Parsippany, NJ Facility as Corporate Headquarters

New Parsippany Facility Supports Global Expansion; Unites NJ Operations in Single Location

Watson Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (NYSE: WPI) today announced that it has formally designated its Parsippany, New Jersey facility as its Corporate Headquarters. The Company's new Corporate Headquarters address is Morris Corporate Center III, 400 Interpace Parkway, Parsippany, NJ 07054.

Previously, Watson Corporate Headquarters was located at 311 Bonnie Circle, Corona, CA 92880. Executive Offices and Commercial Headquarters were located at 360 Mt. Kemble Avenue, Morristown, NJ 07962.

The Company's new Corporate Headquarters occupies an entire building within a multi-tenant corporate office campus as well as a floor of an adjacent building and totals approximately 148,700 square feet. Watson is in the final stages of relocating all New Jersey employees from various facilities to the new site. The new facility enables Watson to combine the operations currently in separate facilities in the Morristown, NJ area into a larger space allowing the Company to more efficiently manage its growing global generic and brand pharmaceutical and biologics businesses around the world.

Corona, CA: Riverside man suspected in councilman impersonation

Editors Note: Wow, really...you compare!

A 37-year-old Riverside man is behind bars today in connection with an attempt to make a $1,500 purchase at a Corona printing business by posing as a city councilman on city business, according to Corona police and jail records.

Lorenzo Joseph Ciaramella was arrested Sunday by Riverside police and booked for investigation of possessing drugs and burglary tools, receiving stolen property and obstructing or resisting a peace officer, jail records show. He is being held without bail because he also is considered a parole violator.

Corona police later interviewed him and will be seeking charges of forgery, passing phony checks, car theft and burglary, Sgt. Kim Velasco said in a written statement. Ciaramella has previous arrests for fraud, identity theft and narcotics violations, Velasco said.

The investigation began on Feb. 22 when a man identifying himself as Corona Councilman Steve Nolan placed a $1,500 the order at a printing company along the 1000 block of West Sixth Street in Corona.

"The suspect ... stated it was for an inner city kid's project," according to the police statement. "The suspect said he would have his driver pick up these items and would pay with a check."

Corona, CA: Best Buy and West Coast Customs Team Up To Bring Top Retailer's Automotive Offerings to Hit New Television Show

Best Buy Co., Inc. (NYSE:BBY) and West Coast Customs(R) (WCC) today announced a new initiative to feature the wide selection of Best Buy(R) automotive products on the television show, "Inside West Coast Customs." From the experts behind such popular series as "Pimp My Ride" and "Street Customs," "Inside" premiered earlier this year and continues the WCC tradition of turning ordinary cars into innovative expressions of personal taste.

During each episode, WCC mechanics take products from the Best Buy Pop-Up Store located in the shop to complete high-quality customization of various vehicles, using the same items available for purchase at Best Buy stores and on BestBuy.com.

"At Best Buy, we have over 25 years of experience meeting consumers' auto needs," said Lisa Farrell,SVP, general manager portable electronics for Best Buy. "We have a wide assortment of auto products that are available at our Best Buy stores and Best Buy auto bays across the country, as well as online at BestBuy.com. We're excited to partner with West Coast Customs to help our customers bring elements of customization to their own cars."

Best Buy will appear in two upcoming WCC episodes.The first episode will feature a WCC boot camp designed to train Geek Squad Autotechs on the show's "seven steps of customization." In the second episode, Ryan and his team take the seven steps to the extreme as they customize a Ford Fiesta. The customized car will be featured at a variety of events throughout the year.

"We obviously have to use professional-grade products when completing our custom designs in our own shop," said Ryan Friedlinghaus, CEO of West Coast Customs."Teaming up with Best Buy lets consumers across the US apply the same Seven Steps of Customization that we demonstrate in the episode thanks to the trained Geek Squad Autotechs and our own line of branded products."

In addition to the show, this summer, West Coast Customs will unveil a line of new accessories, ranging from audio equipment to car care supplies. The products will be available at select Best Buy stores and at BestBuy.com, where customers get a one-stop solution with the added convenience of easy installation by expert Geek Squad Autotech. The product line will expand to additional Best Buy stores throughout this year.

With expertservice from more than 1,400 Mobile Electronics Certified Professionals (MECP) at Best Buy, including nearly one half of the 194 MECP Master installers in the world, over 90 percent of surveyed Best Buy customers said their auto installation was "done right the first time."

Corona, CA: Motorcyclist killed after hitting big rig

Coroner's officials have released the name of the 25-year-old Corona man who was killed yesterday in a motorcycle wreck in Aguanga.

Stephen William Tissert died at the scene of the 2:10 p.m. crash along the southbound lanes of Highway 79 about a half-mile south of Rainbow Street.

Tissert was riding his 2006 Suzuki at about 60 mph and was legally passing slower moving vehicles, witnesses told California Highway Patrol officers.

"South of Rainbow Street, (Tissert) again came upon a group of slower moving vehicles," Officer Ron Thatcher said in a written statement. "As the rider pulled out of the southbound lane to pass ... he failed to observe a 2009 Freightliner stake bed truck making a left turn.

"As the rider attempted to move back into the southbound lane, the Suzuki struck the rear of the stake bed truck inflicting fatal injuries."

Corona, CA: Environmental remediation firm buys Business Park property

Building to house equipment manufacturing; airplane plans on hold

Good Earthkeeping Organization, a Corona, Calif.,-based environmental remediation company, has closed a deal on the former Harborside Graphics building in Belfast Business Park.

VillageSoup reported that the building was under contract in February. According to records at Waldo County Registry of Deeds, GEO bought the building on March 24 from the previous owner Ho Holdings Inc.

GEO President and CEO Carol Winell said the company paid $525,000 for the property. City tax records show the building currently assessed at $895,500.

Winell said the plan is to use the building to manufacture air system and refrigeration components used the company's environmental remediation work. A portion of the building will be used for East Coast offices for GEO, said Winell, who added the company is bidding on a large superfund site in Connecticut and recently finished a job in Buffalo, N.Y.

"We're trying to expand our business on the East Coast," she said. "So, this would be a nice home base."

A previous plan to manufacture replicas of mid-20th century light sport airplanes for Riverside, Calif.,-based Luscombe-Silvaire — in which GEO's parent company holds a majority share — is on the back burner but may still happen, Winell said.

"There's a lot around that. We're working on it, but we would be starting the manufacturing of the GEO products prior to any airplane stuff happening," she said.

In December, GEO bought another Belfast property — the former Em Bee Cleaners building on Church Street. Since then, Winell said, the company has been in conversation with several local contractors about renovating the building and several potential clients about renting space within the building.

Initially, GEO expressed an interest in locating its East Coast offices in the former dry cleaning building, but Winell said the business park building already has office space that would allow the administrative side of the business to be in the same place as the manufacturing facility.

"It's going along. You really have to renovate the dry cleaner to put anything in there. We've already begun that process," she said. "[On] the one at the airport business park, we're pretty busy right now. It takes a little while to get geared up."

Corona, CA: Four Calif. men receive heroism awards

Four California men are among 20 winners of Carnegie medals for heroism.

Fifty-6-year-old Michael Noriega of Manhattan Beach helped to save 92-year-old Lucille Meistrell from a house fire in Manhattan Beach in November 2009.

Thirty-2-year-old David Braga of Modesto saved a 1-year-old girl from an apartment fire in Merced in February 2010.

And 47-year-old Roger Randolph Lang of Corona and 41-year-old Theophilus Joseph of San Bernardino rescued a woman from an assault in Norco, Calif., in April 2009.

The Pittsburgh-based Carnegie Hero Fund Commission announced the honors for individuals from the United States and Canada who risked their lives to an extraordinary degree while saving or attempting to save the lives of others.

Carnegie medalists, or their heirs, receive financial grants. More than $33.1 million has been awarded to over 9,400 honorees since the fund's inception in 1904.

Corona, CA: Renowned TV Show Builders West Coast Customs Team Up With General Tire and Jeff "OX" Kargola to Create the "OX-Tundra"

CORONA, CA: West Coast Customs (WCC) premiers their new show on Discovery's HD Theater, Inside West Coast Customs, April 3, 2011, at 9:00 p.m. EDT. Inside West Coast Customs is the next exciting show featuring WCC's outrageous builds. WCC is unveiling their latest creation, the "OX-Tundra." The Ox-Tundra is the creation of Ryan Friedlinghaus, owner and CEO of West Coast Customs, and General Tire athlete, Jeff "OX" Kargola. WCC took a 2010 Toyota Tundra and transformed it into the ultimate off-road survival machine for the Baja 1000.

"Ox wanted to make his truck fully functional and be able to handle all the obstacles for being out in the desert as a chase vehicle. He also wanted to make it 'dark' and 'mean' to fit with the Metal Mulisha style," said Friedlinghaus. "To start the transformation, we built a custom-roof rack to hold a spare tire, extra gas and lots, and lots of bright lights. We made the rack removable so when the Baja is over, Ox can take it off and go low-profile. On the front of the truck, we have a custom bumper with a winch attached to get out of any hairy situation, and we added a few more lights to make this the brightest truck out there. In the back, we will put in some tool boxes and install a shower. The interior of the truck will be super plush so that while you're in the desert, you can get away from it all in the cab of the truck. We covered the seats in leather with DVD players in the headrests, and we put in a new leather headliner with an additional DVD screen, and for Ox's survival and sanity, a satellite phone and bumpin' sound system. To give it the 'mean' look he asked for, we will give it a one-of-a-kind gray camo paint job with some aggressive General Grabber tires."

Friedlinghaus and his shop have been doing exclusive custom builds for the MTV show Pimp My Ride, TLC's Street Customs, Street Customs Berlin and now on his new show on Discovery's HD Theater, Inside West Coast Customs. West Coast Customs is world-renowned for their extreme vehicles, outrageous features and unique designs.

Check out Inside West Coast Customs, Sunday at 9:00 p.m. EDT on Discovery Channel's HD Theater, and on Fridays at 11:00 a.m. EDT on Discovery Channel.

Jeff "Ox" Kargola, best known as a Freestyle MX rider, started his off-road career racing in the SCORE series in Class 22, and has since been making big waves in the off-road racing scene. Ox is off to an amazing 2011 season — fresh off his 2011 SCORE San Felipe 250 win in Class 22, and his Lucas Oil Off-Road Racing Series (LOORRS) win in the Superlite Class. In 2010, Ox placed first at the San Felipe 250 in Class 22 and stole third in Superlite at the LOORRS Glen Helen Race. Earlier in his career, Ox earned a silver medal at the Winter X Games for "Best Trick," was a WFA Big Air Points Champ and was the first person to complete a "Superman Seat-Grab Back Flip." And that's just recently — Ox has been chalking up wins and titles since 2001. Ox currently rides for Boost Mobile, Metal Mulisha, Monster Energy, Osiris Shoes, General Tire, Desert Assassins and Method Wheels.

Corona, CA: Mace Security International, Inc. Acquires The Command Center Inc. in Corona, CA

Mace announces the first expansion of its Central Station (Mace CS) located in Anaheim, CA, which Mace acquired in 2009. Today Mace acquired the entire stock of The Command Center Inc. (TCCI) based in Corona, CA. The purchase price was not disclosed.

TCCI operates a wholesale central station based in Corona, CA and handles approximately 20,000 accounts from over 70 dealers. For the immediate future, operations will continue in the Corona central station facility. TCCI has been in business for over 20 years, servicing quality security dealers in the Inland Empire region and beyond.

Morgan Hertel, General Manager of the Mace Central Station stated, “We are pleased to add such a quality central station into the Mace family. I have known and worked with TCCI for many years, and value the excellent service reputation and team they have built. We look forward to integrating them into Mace’s state of the art central station, and offering additional services, such as remote video monitoring, two-way audio, GPS and a whole host of advanced services to their client base.”

Dennis Raefield, CEO of Mace Security International, Inc. (MSI), added, “The acquisition of TCCI represents the second step in our Mace strategy to focus solely on security, whether in products, personal defense, or services such as Mace CS. Mace CS has already become a pivotal contributor to MSI’s growth and profits, and we will continue, after our planned rights offering, to make additional acquisitions in the space. TCCI represents the type and quality of acquisitions Mace will be making.”

Al Gapik, who has been the President of TCCI since its inception stated, "For over twenty years, TCCI has been focused on providing quality service to its dealers. This transaction with Mace Central Station will solidify the high-quality of service and allow our dealers to grow and profit much faster with the services Mace Central Station can provide."

Corona, CA: Monster Presents The Monster Mash At USASA Nationals

MONSTER ENERGY ANNOUNCES THE SECOND ANNUAL MONSTER MASH INVITATIONAL AT USASA NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIPS

Corona, CA: Monster Energy announces the second annual Monster Mash Invitational Pipe Jam on Tuesday, April 5 at 5 pm (practice at 4 pm) at the USASA National Championships held at Copper Mountain, CO featuring the United States largest and most coveted amateur national snowboard event.

The grassroots annual event stands as the main attraction to the week-long snowboard nationals event at Copper Mountain that takes place April 2 - 8, and is the forum to showcase snowboarding’s future champions.

“It’s been 12 months since nationals,” said Monster Energy’s Luke Trembath aka the Dingo - who will be on the mic announcing during the event. ”I can’t wait to see the new talent and progression. Monster and the USASA are producing the next Olympians and next generation of pros! Dreams and careers are made here at Copper Mountain this week.”

The Monster Mash Invitational will features amateur-to-pro rank graduates from previous USASA competitions to include Danny Kass, JJ Thomas, Chad Otterstrom, and Brennen Swanson among many others - as well as the current Pac Sun team and other young up and comers. The Mash will be judged by OG Colorado shred legends Adam Merriman, Jay “Ninja” Isaacs, and Todd Franzen.

Monster Energy will throw down with a bit of philanthropic incentive by donating $5,000 to USASA in the winning rider’s name.

Monster Energy’s Danny Kass, a former USASA competitor who went on to take two silver Olympic medals, is living proof that USASA shapes snowboarding’s future stars.

“For the second time only Monster brings all the pros back home to the USASA Nationals in Copper Mountain,” said Danny Kass. ”The nationals is where all the top competitive snowboarders started and learned the tools they would need to reach their highest achievements. I started my first nationals at age 12 and continued in it until I was 18. It is exciting for me to ride and see the next generation of shredders on a long road to the X Games and hopefully the Olympics. Get ready USASA Nationals because it is almost time to mash it up with the pros. Viva la Monster Mash.”

“Nationals is the perfect forum for the Monster Mash - an inspirational Pipe Jam for the kids,” said Cody Dresser, Action Sports Director for Monster Energy. “Guys like Danny Kass and JJ all came up through USASA, and having these guys shred in front of the next generation really enforces that connection - it all starts here!”

Corona, CA: Husqvarna Defends World 2-Stroke Championship Title

Corona, CA: Husqvarna believes in the legacy of 2-strokes and will be returning to the World 2-Stroke Championships this weekend with the #1 plate. Look for both #1 Bobby Garrison and #99 Jamie Lanza aboard identical Zip-Ty Racing prepped WR300s to defend Husky’s heritage during the MTA World 2-Stroke Championships to be held at Glen Helen Raceway on Sunday, April 3rd. In addition to going for the glory, the $4,500 purse should provide plenty of incentive for top pros to park their 4-strokes in favor of burning some castor bean oil this weekend!

Last year, Garrison gave Husqvarna its first major U.S. motocross win in nearly a decade in front of a packed house by defeating a field of top level-talent. “I am looking forward to busting out my trusty Husky WR300 and winning again,” says Garrison who is using the break in the WORCS series to defend the World 2-Stroke title. Bobby is a good bet to win again after a recent WORCS victory and the fact that he is just back from San Felipe where he teamed up with Shane Esposito and Steve Hengveld to finish 2nd in the Baja 250!

Zip-Ty Racing Husqvarna team member Jamie Lanza is also taking a break from the WORCS series and looking forward to a better race than he experienced last weekend in Arizona. “Hopefully the only bath I’ll be taking this week will be champagne,” jokes Jamie of the dunking he suffered at Lake Havasu last weekend. “The course had a lagoon jump that was ‘do or die’… and I died! I hit a rock under the sand approaching the lip of the jump and got sideways. I straightened out just as I went off the lip but had no drive and came up short, completely submerging myself and my Husqvarna TE310. I was a hero for the spectators, but very disappointed that I cost the team a top 10 finish,” says the rueful Lanza. “I’ll ride the WR300 Motocross Action Magazine test bike this weekend while my 4-stroke TE310 dries out!”

The racing on Sunday kicks off with the Old Timers MX for riders 40+ years old and then wraps up with the 2nd Annual MTA World 2-Stroke Championships. Go to www.glenhelen.com for more details on this weekend’s racing. “We want 2-stroke fans to Ride More… just like their 4-stroke counterparts,” says Husqvarna’s National Marketing Manager Corey Eastman. “We are very proud of being the defending World 2-Stroke champions and look forward to winning it again this weekend!”

Riverside, CA: Man sentenced for bringing half ton of coke to Mich.

A major cocaine trafficker from California has been sentenced for delivering over a ton of cocaine to West Michigan and elsewhere.

Emond Durea Logan, 50, was sentenced to 35 years in prison after pleading guilty in September to conspiracy to distribute cocaine.

The U.S. Attorney's office says that Logan, along with his brother-in-law, Alvin Keith Jackson, delivered more than 1,000 kilograms (more than one ton) of cocaine from California to Michigan and returned to California with $35 million in drug proceeds. The deliveries took place between the summer of 2004 and January of 2007 and mostly distributed by a violent street gang in the Lansing area.

Jackson was sentenced to 19 years, 7 months in federal prison in 2009.

As part of the plea agreement, Logan also agreed to forfeit his residence in Riverside, California, a 2007 Maserati Quattroporte, a 2007 Mercedes Benz SL 500R, and a semi-trailer he used to transport the cocaine and proceeds across the country. Several other vehicles, bank accounts, jewelry and furs were also forfeited.

Several others involved in the operation have been apprehended and sentenced as well.

Riverside, CA: Student who drowned had high blood alcohol level

Toxicology tests find a Southern California college student who drowned in Newport Harbor had a high level of alcohol in his system when he died.

The Orange County Crime Lab concluded that 22-year-old Alan Sun-Long Lin's post-mortem blood alcohol content was between .16 and .19 percent.

The Orange County Register reports Sunday that a man of his size would need to have seven or eight alcoholic drinks in an hour to reach that level.

The mechanical engineering student at the University of California, Riverside was found floating in the Rhine Channel on Feb. 13, eight days after he was reported missing.

Lin, who lived in Riverside during the week and returned to his family in Orange County on the weekends, had last been seen leaving a bar and grill about three blocks from the bay.