COLTON COURIER Weekly
May 23, 2024
Vol 152, NO. 22
Despite Recent Vandalism, Colton’s Aroma De Cafe Shines as an Affordable 4.8-Star Rated Sandwich and Coffee Shop
IECN.com
Micro-Internship Program Introduces Cajon High School Students to IEHP Career Pathways Pg. 4
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
(Left to right) Aroma De Cafe Owner Jesus Villarruel (Chuy) and his sister Roxana Pachuca in the dining area of the shop, which is clean, bright, and features a minimalistic/modern aesthetic.
By Manny Sandoval
A
roma De Cafe, a beloved sandwich and coffee shop in downtown Colton, has quickly become a cherished spot since opening in January 2024. The cafe’s unique blend of delicious food, exceptional coffee, and communityfocused atmosphere has earned it a stellar 4.8-star rating on both Google and Yelp.
PHOTO MANNY SANDOVAL
A handmade turkey sandwich on wheat bread featuring pepper jack cheese, sprouts, avocado, lettuce, spinach, and onion - with light mayo, mustard, and italian dressing, it’s only $7.99.
Owner Jesus Villarruel, affectionately known as Chuy, has infused Aroma De Cafe with a sense of community and personal dedication. The idea for the shop was born during a work trip to San Jose. “I was inspecting a fight in San Jose, and my hotel was downtown. I walked out of my room, saw a small coffee shop, and thought, 'I’ve always wanted to start a business like this,'” Villarruel recalled. Villarruel’s journey to opening Aroma De
From Hitting the Books to Walking Down the Aisle: Redlands Couple Shares Journey to Becoming Crafton Hills Graduates
By Dr. G (Dr Luis S González), community writer
G
enesis Rodela Uriarte, an 11thgrade student at Colton High School, has been appointed as the new Youth Commissioner for the Recreation and Parks Commission, effective through June 30, 2025. The appointment was officially presented by Council Member Dr. Luis S. González at the recent Recreation and Parks Commission meeting. The role of Youth Commissioner is a prestigious position requiring attendance at all Recreation and Parks Commission meetings. Although the Youth Commissioner can present information, ask questions, and deliberate, they do not have voting rights. This position provides invaluable experience and training for young individuals like Genesis who are eager to expand their educational horizons.
Inland
CSUSB Abi Empire Alumna Community CarterNewspapers Wins ‘American Office: Idol’ (909) 381-9898 iecn1@mac.com
Pg. 8
Inland Empire Community Newspapers Office: (909) 381-9898 Editorial: iecn1@mac.com Advertising: iecn1@mac.com Legals : iecnlegals@gmail.com
Aroma De Cafe, cont. next pg.
Colton High School 11th Grader Genesis Rodela Uriarte Appointed Youth Commissioner by Recreation and Parks Commission
Pg. 4
Editorial:
Cafe was not straightforward. As a Distribution Operator for Riverside Highland Water Company and an Athletic Inspector for the State of California’s professional combative sports, including UFC and boxing events for Ryan Garcia, Gervonta Davis, Jaime Munguia, and Logan Paul, Villarruel juggles multiple roles. His dream of owning a coffee shop took a backseat when his father fell ill with
PHOTO DR G
(Left to right) Dr. G, Council Member, and Genesis Rodela Uriarte, Youth Commissioner.
The nomination for Genesis was put forward by Council Member Dr. González on May
7 and was unanimously approved by the City Council. This appointment follows several months of logistical and legal evaluations to ensure a smooth process. Genesis is a dedicated student at Colton High School, where she takes a full schedule of Advanced Placement (AP) classes and plays in the school band. She is also actively involved in various extracurricular activities, including serving as Teen Ms. Colton, participating in the Rotary speech contest, receiving the HOBY award from the Colton Woman’s Club in 2023, and attending CITY TALK neighborhood meetings hosted by Dr. González. Looking ahead, Genesis plans to pursue a major in microbiology after graduation. She is currently applying to several colleges and is expected to be accepted into her chosen institution without difficulty. Known for her positivity, reliability, and strong communication skills, Genesis has the full support of her parents and Dr. Youth Commissioner, cont. next pg.