Category Archives: News By City

Rescuing a Lizard

By Mark Hopper

I recently heard in the news that a woman called “911” because she was being strangled and bitten by her Boa Constrictor.  Fortunately, she was rescued by local law enforcement and survived this frightening event.

My story is on a much smaller scale and not as dramatic.  Actually, I was not attacked by a lizard.  I rescued a lizard!

When I went out to wash my car, I opened the front wrought iron gate to get the garden hose.  As I opened the gate, I noticed something unusual.  Something was caught on the bottom of the gate.  I thought is was a leaf or piece of paper.  But, when I looked closer, I realized it was a lizard.

I had attached some wire screen to the lower part of the front gate to keep rabbits from getting into my back yard.    The screen is made of wire with small squares about a quarter inch wide.

Unfortunately, the lizard got trapped in this wire screen and was unable to get free.  At first, I thought the lizard was dead.  He appeared lifeless and was not moving.  But he reacted quickly when I touched him.  Thankfully, he was still alive.

How do you free a lizard who has squeezed himself into a fix like this?  I decided that surgery was required.  I went into the garage and found a small pair of wire cutters.  I went back to the gate and began to cut the wire screen around the lizard being careful to not injure my small friend.

I felt a little like one of those technicians you see in the movies who defuse bombs.  They have to carefully cut each wire without detonating the device.  I finally cut the section of wire away from the gate.  Now I just needed to cut the last few pieces that were still holding the lizard.  With the precision of a brain surgeon, I cut each piece as carefully as possible.  Finally, the lizard broke free! Success!

Of course, after freeing my little friend, you would expect that he would stay behind to thank me.  But, that was not the case.  He quickly dashed off into the nearby bushes glad to be freed from this life threatening predicament.

I am glad that my rescue attempt and surgical strategy was a success.  I enjoy having lizards around the yard and I’m glad I was able to rescue this one.

I wonder how often God has rescued us from some unanticipated situations?  I wonder how often He has protected us from serious injury or an unforeseen problem that we are unaware of?

I do know that the Bible promises us that when we call on Him for help, He hears our prayers.  Psalm 145:18-20 says, “The Lord is near to those who call on Him…He will hear their cry and rescue them”.

But, don’t wait until a crisis comes into your life.  Call on God every day.  Begin and end each day with prayer.  He is near and He will hear every prayer!

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 &10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

A Can Of Paint

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Mark Hopper

 

I have discovered that after Spring cleaning comes Summer painting!  We recently hired some people to remodel our bathrooms.  The look great.  New fixtures, new tile and new paint!  It is amazing how nice they look. However, when you get new paint in one room, you notice how old the paint looks in the other rooms.  I guess it is like buying a new car.  You have no problem driving the older car with its scratches and dents until you see a new car parked next to yours.  The new car makes your car look older! Before the new painters worked on our two bathrooms, the old paint looked fine to me.  But, now, it is easy to notice how faded and old the existing paint looked and the new paint clearly looks better than the old.

So, we bought a can of new paint and started on other rooms in our house.  Actually, we purchased two cans.  One for the walls and the smaller can for the baseboards.  We also purchased new brushes, rollers and a new paint pan.  I forgot to buy some plastic gloves, but I was ready to take on the challenge! When my wife and I were newlyweds, we bought some inexpensive paint from a local store.  The color looked good and the price was low.  But, we quickly learned that the cheaper paint was not a good idea.  When we used a paint roller with the thin, cheap paint, we were soon covered with speckles of paint.  I think we got more paint on ourselves than on the wall!  I suspect this happens to all rookie painters. This time we bought some good quality paint.  It went on smoothly with very little mess.  This paint was much thicker and covered very well.  The new paint looked great and my wife was really pleased.

It is interesting how a coat of paint can change and transform the appearance of a room in your house.  Everything looks better.  The room looks bigger and cleaner.  The color looks more vivid and brighter.  New paint really does make a difference!  A can of paint can literally transform the appearance of a room.

I don’t know of many verses in the Bible that talk about paint.  Most houses were made of mud bricks with wooded logs, sticks and branches for a roof.  Most were not “painted”.  However, some buildings were covered with “whitewash” – similar to our paint. Jesus refers  to religious hypocrites as “whitewashed tombs”.  In Bible times, it was common to bury dead bodies in small caves – often several bodies in one tomb.  Over time, the bodies would decay and the bones would remain.   Sometimes people would “paint” the entrance of the cave with “whitewash”. Jesus accused the religious hypocrites of looking beautiful on the outside but he said they were spiritually dead on the inside. ( Matthew 23:27 / Acts 23:3).  Jesus said they were like “whitewashed” tombs. I wonder what Jesus would say about you and me today?  Do we look good on the outside, but is the inside of our heart, mind and soul pleasing to God?  Do we appear religious and kind on the outside, but are we unkind hypocrites on the inside?

At the same time, the Bible does remind us that God can take the worst sinner and transform him or her into a beautiful person.  In a small letter in the New Testament, the Apostle Paul wrote, “When the kindness and love of God our Savior appeared, he saved us – not because of the righteous things we have done, but because of His mercy.  God saved us through the washing of rebirth and the renewing of the Holy Spirit” (Titus 3:5). God can transform the worst of us – inside and out – when we acknowledge our sins and we accept Jesus as our personal savior.  The Bible says that Jesus died on the cross to pay for our sins and he rose again to purchase a place for us in heaven.

A can of paint can dramatically change the appearance of a room.  New paint can cover a multitude of smudges, scratches and hand prints.  However, spiritually speaking, we need a new “paint job” on the inside!  Paint is only an exterior cover.  Grace and faith in Jesus are what can change us on the inside! If you want to change the appearance of your home, buy a can of paint.  If you want to change the condition of your heart, start by confessing your sins to God and by placing your faith in Jesus today. You will be glad you did and He will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 &10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

DB Film Permits

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – The city of Diamond Bar contracts with FilmLA to provide streamlined permit processing for all commercial filming and still photography.

Guidelines include All commercial filming and/or still photography within city limits requires a film permit.

Permit applications must be submitted at least three working days prior to start date to allow for review by City and County of Los Angeles Sheriff’s and Fire Departments.

Non-commercial photography or videography (personal use) does not require a permit. However, use of equipment such as lights or generators may require a permit.

Permit Fees  – A City single permit fee is $583.27, in addition to any FilmL.A. permit processing fees. Student filming is eligible for a waiver on a case-by-case basis.

Hours – Filming and/or photography may take place between the hours of 7:00 am to 7:00 pm in residential areas. However, requests outside the general hours will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The City may require surveys of neighborhoods to determine related impacts and mitigation considerations.

Use of City Facilities – For questions regarding City facility reservations, please contact Community Services Department – Facility Reservations at 909.839.7065. Reservations are strongly encouraged prior to submitting a FilmL.A. permit application.

Additional Information – Contact the City Manager’s Office at 909.839.7013 or via email at asantos@diamondbarca.gov.

Rise of SUV Third Row Seat Thefts

Photo courtesy: Google

By Michael Armijo

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

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

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

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

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

2 CH Residents Jailed After Marijuana Bust

Courtesy: ANAPR File Photo

By Mireya Delapaz

Chino Hills – A chase ensued in Chino Hills this week that led to 2 arrests for the growth and possession of marijuana.

The two suspects, Zhi Cheng, 40 and Hui Yuan Li, 37, were being chased for 5 miles on the 71 freeway near the Westbound I-10 before getting arrested.

There were arrested on suspicion of marijuana cultivation and failure to yield a traffic stop. Deputies then searched their 5 bedroom home that was turned into a grow house, in the block of Dynelo Avenue in Chino Hills on Tuesday at 3 pm to find 391 plants, over 4 pounds of marijuana.

The last arrest for this was in 2016, when cultivation of marijuana charges were filed on suspects Michael Nguyen and Sheryl Nyguen. They were arrested for having 157 marijuana plants and 16 pounds of processed marijuana in their home.

According to the California Marijuana Laws and Prop 64, it is legal to posess up to one ounce of marijuana and up to 6 plants for adults that are 21 and over. Commercial sale and cultivation is only allowed by licensed providers and Illegal sale and or possession is a misdemeanor. Not until 2018, Prop 64 will then allow the sale of marijuana for adult use in licensed stores under regulations. Therefore, it is illegal to have a grow house in California and sell without consent.

Bank Robbery Investigation Leads to Animal Cruelty Case

By Mireya De la Paz

Corona –  A man was arrested by the Corona Police Department on Wednesday July 26, 2017 for bank robbery in Corona, California.

72-year-old Robert Bustamante Flores threatened a teller of the Western Bank on 1050 W. Sixth Street in Corona July 20, 2017. Flores was suspected of robbery when he went to the police department and police were suspicious and got a search warrant. Corona police searched his home to look for evidence specifically among the robbery.

They found about 26 dogs living in his home in the 100 block N. Vincentia Avenue. Flores began to tell the police that he lived in the garage while the dogs lived inside the home. Corona Animal Control was given permission to search the home and found a total of 35 dogs and 7 small puppies.

Animal Control Officer Bill Sellers explained how he had never seen anything like it and how it was the worst call he had ever received.  They had to put one of the dogs to sleep due to his severe wounds while most of the dogs were found with multiple diseases. They explained the home as “destroyed” with demolished furniture and animal waste left on the floors. The dogs were all allegedly neglected and were not being properly fed and hydrated. Thankfully, Corona Animal Shelter was able to take all 36 dogs and are currently being taken care of and supervised. Flores was arrested for the charge of Robbery and his bail is $30,000 while the animal cruelty investigation is still ongoing.

 

 

CH PD Chase Ends in PIT Maneuver, Arrest

Staff Reports

Chino Hills, CA – A driver of a stolen vehicle flee from deputies which ensured in a pursuit that ended in Los Angeles after a PIT maneuver.
Last week at about 1:52 am a vehicle failed to yield and a pursue ensued. The result was a stolen vehicle chase that ended on Kadota Ave and Mission Blvd in Montclair.

Alexander Granados-Benavides, 34-year-old resident of Ontario was arrested when deputies from the Chino Hills Sheriff’s Station were conducting proactive patrol in the county area of Montclair and observed a vehicle blacked out on Kadota Avenue near Mission Boulevard. Deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop and the driver of the Toyota pickup failed to yield. A check of the license plate revealed it was a stolen vehicle.

The driver, later identified as 34-year-old Alexander Granados-Benavides, led deputies on a pursuit which drove through surface streets, construction zones and freeways without due regard for public safety. The pursuit ended in downtown Los Angeles where deputies performed a PIT maneuver. Once the truck was disabled, Grenados-Benavides fled on foot and was captured a short time later.

Grenados-Benavides was arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center for failure to yield, vehicle theft and possession of narcotics.

Anyone who witnessed the incident please call the Chino Hills Sheriff’s Station at (909) 364-2000 and refer to Case No. 021700650.

A Manila Envelope

By Mark Hopper

 

Recently, I received a large Manila envelope in the mail from my brother.  He is my favorite brother. Actually, he is my only brother! He sends me a birthday card every year and signs it – “Your Favorite Brother”. I wasn’t sure what he was sending me .  My birthday is in August.  I knew it was too early and too big for a birthday card.  So I was curious.  What was in this large envelope? He must have been cleaning out some old files and boxes, because he sent me some old photos and newspaper clippings.  I suspect that these were things that my father and mother collected over the years.  My brother must have found them as he cleaned out some files after they died.

There were some real treasures among the things he sent.  There were pictures of our children when they were in elementary school.  There were a few pictures of some family gatherings.  And, there was a picture of my brother and me and our wives with my dad after our mother had died.  There were a few photos of my wife and I with my parents at my graduation from seminary in 1975.

The envelope also contained some old newspaper clippings of me when I was in high school and college.  One news article was about a good looking young man who had been named “Newspaper Boy of the Year” in Phoenix Arizona by the Arizona Republic in 1968.  That good looking guy was me!  There was a nice picture of me receiving this special award.  According to the article there were over 2,000 newspaper carriers in Phoenix at that time.  Somehow, the Arizona Republic selected me!

Another newspaper article reported that two young men had been selected to represent Arizona at the annual “Boys Nation” gathering in Washington, DC in July, 1968.  The American Legion sponsored “Boys State” in all fifty states each year.  In each state, young leaders gathered on a college campus to learn about leadership and government.  They  held elections and selected representatives for the various branches of state government.  I was one of over 300 young men who attended the Arizona Boys State convention in 1968.  I was one of the two young men selected to go to Boys Nation in Washington, DC.  That brought back many memories.  During that week in Washington, we met with President Johnson in the White House Rose Garden.  We also met with Vice President Hubert Humphrey later that week.  We had private tours of the nation’s Capitol, the White House, the  Pentagon and the State Department.  It was a week that I will always remember.

There were a few other items in that large Manila envelope.  There were a few cards written by our mother.  There was my second grade spelling book.  I don’t think my parents saved my report cards.  That is probably best! There are many passages in the Bible that urge us to remember our past and reflect on God’s blessings.  The Bible also instructs us to share these stories with our children and grandchildren.  In the book of Deuteronomy chapter six it says, “Teach your children and talk about these things when you are at home or out for a walk – at bed time or the first thing in the morning”. I am confident that you probably have some envelopes and files at your house that contain some family treasures.  Let me encourage you to get them out and take some time to share them with  your immediate and extended family.   They will be glad you did and you will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 &10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

DB Fire Contained By Park

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – A fire broke out near the Carlton Peterson Park and was contained last week, just north of the 60 freeway.

LA County firefighters contained the 1 acre blaze within an hour and a half of the reporting of the fire, which was reported at 4 pm.

The patch of brush was just north of the LA County fire station 121.

The fire didn’t threaten the free way but onlookers slowed traffic down for a few hours during rush hour.

“No structures were damaged as firefighters established structure defenses” said Marvin Lim, LA County Fire Department Spokesman. “We are happy to report no injuries were reported as well.”

How the fire started wasn’t determined as of press time but Lim said an investigation is ongoing, routine for all fires.

Former Mayor’s Wife Killed In Car Collision

By Mireya De La Paz

Walnut – A 49 year-old woman, Tiffany Chiali Yi Ching, died after crashing into a big rig off the 60 freeway East of Santa Anita Avenue in South El Monte last week. She was later identified as former Walnut Mayor Eric Ching.

Ching was elected as a member of Walnut city council in April of 2012, and he was appointed as Mayor Pro Tem in July 2014.  On July 13, 2016 he Was appointed as Mayor of the City of Walnut.

The trailer tractor had been stopped on the right side of the shoulder of the freeway due to a vehicle breakdown. According to Officer J. Calder of the CHP’s East Los Angeles-area office “(The BMW driver) made a turning movement to the right toward the Santa Anita Avenue off ramp,” he said. “The BMW struck the right, rear corner of the stopped commercial trailer, continued in a westerly direction, collided a second time into the commercial trailer and the redirected to the north and came to rest on the right shoulder of the off ramp.”

After running an autopsy, the driver had suffered from traumatic injuries and they pronounced her dead at 1:54 pm. The speed at which Ching was driving was unknown but the incident was a ruled accident and did not involve any drugs or alcohol. The big rig driver did not suffer from any injuries.

Former DB Mayor Jack Tanaka Passed Away

tanaka

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Former Diamond Bar Mayor Jack Tanaka passed away today after a long battle with cancer, the LA County Sheriff’s Department announced.

Jack was honored last November where he received a standing ovation at Diamond Bar City Hall at the Nov. 17 council meeting as he announced his retirement from 10 years of service to the community.

Tanaka stated that the city council, staff and residents have made his 10 years of service memorable and a great learning experience. His last day in office was Dec. 1.

Tanaka, first elected in 2005, served twice as the city’s mayor and served on the City’s Planning Commission for more than three years. He said he wanted to spend more time with family, but will still remain active in the community who he considers family.
A retired U.S. Army Sergeant and former peace officer with the California Youth Authority and State Department of Corrections, Tanaka was first elected to the Diamond Bard city council in 2005.
A constant fixture in the community, Tanaka and his wife Wanda devoted much of their time to helping out in the community especially youth. From the Miss Diamond Bar Pageant and the local Humane Society to community birthday parties and city concerts, the Tanaka’s were always there to lend a helping hand.
The Tanakas believed community service makes each volunteer a better person, a caring person, a person living an enriched life.
The Tanakas moved to Diamond Bar in 1976 and have since remained actively involved in community matters. In 2012, the couple was honored with Lions Clubs International’s Lion of the Year Award, the organization’s highest honor and usually given to only one person in the world.
Diamond Bar resident Lorry Somers Hughes Meyer said it’s sad to see him go. “He was great asset to the city. He has surely accomplished his civic duty in spades!”

James Audley “When you are as involved as Mr. Tanaka is in his community you never retire,” resident James Audley said. “He and his wonderful wife Wanda embody the spirit of philanthropy and a service driven life. During my time working in Diamond Bar I cannot say I met anyone who was more kind and generous than the Tanakas. They are a model of what being a citizen is all about.”

Funeral Arraignments are pending.

#diamondbarmayor #tanaka #dbmayorpasses #tanakapassesaway

Eastvale Crime Recap

JUNE 2017

 

INCIDENT:           HOMICIDE

WHEN:                 6/4/17 @ 7:56 pm

WHERE:                1400 Block of Pacific Ave., Norco

DETAILS:              Officers from the Norco Police Department responded to a physical altercation between two adult males outside a residence in Norco. Officers arrived within minutes and located a male laying on a driveway and not breathing. Officers began emergency lifesaving procedures for the male until paramedics arrived. The victim, later identified as 57-year-old, Gerald Lee, was transported to Corona Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased. Based on the circumstances, the Sheriff’s Central Homicide Unit responded to the scene and assumed the investigation. Investigators are currently searching for 55-year-old, Klaus Peter Foster of Norco. Klaus Foster is a white male adult 5’8”/ 200 lbs. with red hair, a beard, and brown eyes.  He was last seen driving a green 2005 GMC Sierra pickup truck, California license plate number 74953F2. Klaus Foster is wanted only for questioning regarding the incident. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts or this incident can call Investigator Mullins as 951-955-2777.

UPDATE:              Based on information gathered during the ongoing investigation, an arrest warrant was obtained for suspect, Klaus Foster. Additional leads directed investigators to a residence in Big River California near the Colorado river. At the request of the Sheriff’s Central Homicide Unit, San Bernardino Sheriff’s deputies located and arrested Foster in Big River. He was later transferred to the custody of deputies from Riverside Sheriff’s Colorado River Station and booked into the Blythe Jail. Foster’s bail is set at $1,000,000.

 

INCIDENT:           TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT OPERATION

WHEN:                 6/5/2017 from 6:00 am until 12:00 pm

WHERE:                Eastvale

RESULTS:             30 Citations were issued for traffic violations

2 vehicles were impounded for unlicensed/suspended drivers

 

 

INCIDENT:           NARCOTICS INVESTIGATION & ARREST

WHEN:                 6/8/2017 @ 12:30 pm

WHERE:                3100 block of Corona Ave., Norco

DETAILS:              Deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Special Enforcement Team conducted a narcotics investigation at a Norco residence. During a probation sweep of the residence, deputies located a small amount of heroin & associated paraphernalia. Patrick Page, a 36-year old Norco resident, was arrested at the scene without incident. He was later booked into the Robert Presley Detention Center for felony violation of probation and other associated charges.

 


WHEN:                 6/10/2017 from 7:00 pm until 3:00 amINCIDENT:           DUI TRAFFIC ENFORCEMENT OPERATION

WHERE:                Norco

RESULTS:             36 vehicles stopped

8 drivers were given Field Sobriety tests

1 driver arrested for DUI

 

 

INCIDENT:           WARRANT SWEEP

WHEN:                 6/11/2017 from 6:00 am until 12:00 pm

WHERE:                Jurupa Valley

RESULTS:             29 Warrants Attempted

18 Warrants Served

 

INCIDENT:           STOLEN VEHICLE ARREST

WHEN:                 6/12/2017 @ 7:40 am

WHERE:                54th Street & Steve Ave., Jurupa Valley

DETAILS:              Jurupa Valley Police officers received information a pickup truck with a utility trailer was stolen that morning in San Diego.  The owner located the vehicle and followed it through the city of Jurupa Valley.  Officers located the vehicle at 54th Street and Steve Avenue, in the city of Jurupa Valley.  The driver and sole occupant, Juan Villarreal (age 25 of Jurupa Valley), was arrested and booked for vehicle theft, possession of stolen property, possession of burglary tools, and a violation of probation for auto theft.

 

INCIDENT:           VEHICLE THEFT INVESTIGATION & ARREST

WHEN:                 6/14/2017 @ 10:50 am

WHERE:                1700 block of Western Ave., Norco

DETAILS:              Deputies assigned to the Norco Sheriff’s Office contacted the occupant of a suspicious vehicle parked on Western Ave. in Norco. After running the license plate, deputies discovered the vehicle had been reported stolen from a residence in LA County on June 12th. The occupant of the vehicle, George Alberto Anzaldo, a 40- year old Pico Rivera resident, was arrested without incident at the scene. During a search of his person, deputies discovered a burglary tool commonly used in vehicle thefts. He was later booked into the R. Presley Detention Center for possession of a stolen vehicle, possession of burglary tools & committing a felony while on bail.

 

INCIDENT:           COURT STING OPERATION

WHEN:                 6/15/2017 from 7:00 am until 12:00 pm

WHERE:                Jurupa Valley

DETAILS:           On June 15, 2017, between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m.,  officers from Jurupa Valley Traffic Division conducted an undercover “Court Sting” operation at the Riverside Superior Court targeting suspected DUI drivers whose  licenses where suspended/revoked or who were unlicensed drivers and reside in the city of Jurupa Valley.  Deputies staked out offenders who had been told by a judge not to drive and/or who had been told of their license suspension.  While some offenders complied with the law and had alternate means of transportation, four individuals in court for DUI/suspended licenses proceeded to get behind the wheel and drove away from the court house.  Those who chose to drive were stopped by waiting deputies and cited back into court and their vehicles were impounded: RESULTS- 4 Suspended/Revoked, 4 Vehicles Impounded  Those arrested today could face additional jail time, long driver license suspensions, along with other financial hits including attorney fees, court costs, lost time at work, and the potential loss of job or job prospects. When family, friends and co-workers find out, violators can also face tremendous personal embarrassment and humiliation. DUI Court Sting stakeout operations, along with regularly scheduled high visibility DUI enforcement, serve as a proven deterrent with the goal of keeping impaired drivers from the road and heightening awareness among the public of the dangers of driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol. This special DUI operation was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.  Please help the Jurupa Valley Police Department every day of the week:  Report Drunk Drivers – Call 9-1-1!  The operation was funded by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety, through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 

INCIDENT:           WEAPON AND DRUG SALES ARREST OF GANG MEMBER

WHEN:                 6/22/17 @ 2:48 pm

WHERE:                4000 Block of Lindsay Street, Jurupa Valley

DETAILS:         On Thursday, 06/22/17, about 2:48 PM, members of the Riverside County Sheriff Department’s Region 7 Gang Task Force conducted a probation compliance check at a residence in the 4000 Block of Lindsay Street in Jurupa Valley. Task Force officers contacted 37-year old Jurupa Valley resident, David Perez at the residence. Perez was determined to be on supervised probation for weapons violations. Perez was found to be in possession of a loaded handgun and approximately one ounce of methamphetamine along with heroin. Additional items were also located indicative of drug sales. Perez was also identified as being an active participant of a criminal street gang. Perez was arrested and booked into custody at the Robert Presley Detention Center for the following charges: Ex-Felon in possession of a loaded firearm, Ex-Felon in possession of ammunition, Methamphetamine and heroin sales,  Possession of methamphetamine and heroin while armed , Prior drug sale enhancements,  Criminal street gang member in possession of a loaded firearm,  Felony probation violation. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact Sergeant Frank Lodes from the Riverside County Region 7 Gang Task Force at (951) 955-2734.

Updates to Transform Your New House into Your Dream Home

Photo courtesy: Created by BearFotos

By StatePoint

Congratulations, you’ve purchased a home! Now what? You’ve saved a million ideas on Pinterest and you’re ready to start making improvements. But how do you prioritize to make the most of your money? Consider these simple upgrades to transform your new house into your dream home.

1. Update Lighting

Cost: $10 (box of light bulbs) – $300 (new fixture)

Benefits: Brightens the room, enhances ambience, increases energy efficiency.

Let there be light! There are several ways to make a room feel brighter. Start with something quick, like swapping out bulbs to brighter or more efficient choices. For a mid-level task and a dose of style, add new lampshades. Or go big by replacing outdated fixtures with on-trend options.

2. Find a Better Faucet

Cost: $150 – $500

Benefits: Boosts home appeal, improves kitchen functionality.

One in five millennials say they want to update their kitchen, according to Moen research, and a simple faucet upgrade can be impactful. Replacing a basic kitchen faucet with a one-handle pulldown, like Moen’s Sleek faucet, creates a clean, modern look while adding functionality that makes cleanup a breeze, thanks to the easy-to-maneuver spray wand. Equipped with Power Clean technology, it provides more spray power while containing splash, which means faster cleanup for tough-to-rinse foods.

3. Install a Kitchen Backsplash

Cost: $125 – $250 (varies based on materials and if paying a pro)

Benefits: Creates a focal point, protects walls from cooking splatter, prevents water damage.

If your new kitchen has the blahs, a fresh backsplash may be the solution. In addition to protective and easy-to-clean qualities, a backsplash provides many customization possibilities, from material and color, to cost. Options could be glass mosaics, salvaged brick, or even peel-and-stick tile for easy installation (hello afternoon project)!

4. Replace Your Showerhead

Cost: $75 – $150

Benefits: Offers personalization, adds style, enhances daily routine.

New to DIY? Replacing a showerhead is an easy way to get your feet wet — pun intended! Whether trying to save water with a low-flow fixture or updating something out of style, swapping showerheads can be done in minutes. For ultimate customization, try a multi-function showerhead like Moen’s Attract combination handshower and rainshower with Magnetix, which provides three showering options for your perfectly personalized shower every time. Plus, the magnetic dock on the handshower makes re-docking a snap.

5. Add a Coat of Paint

Cost: $25 – $60

Benefits: Provides an instant makeover.

Whether your space is screaming for a makeover (mustard walls, anyone?), or you’re itching to try new trends, a coat of paint makes a big impact. Try creating an accent wall with a pop of color or fun pattern — it’s a smaller project that’s easy for first-time DIYers.

6. Maximize Space with Shelves

Cost: $10 – $45

Benefits: Maximizes space, revamps walls.

One in three millennials lacks the confidence to hang a shelf, according to Moen research, but they shouldn’t! With practice and the right tools, installing shelving is an inexpensive project to help better utilize space Creative ways to add storage include installing floating shelves for books or adding floor-to-ceiling shelving in a closet.

7. Coordinate Accessories

Cost: $20 – $40

Benefits: Creates a consistent look, easy to install.

Create a cohesive look throughout your home with coordinating accessories. Choose hardware matching in color and style with the existing fixtures, sink and flooring to achieve a sophisticated feel from top to bottom., Easy-to-install accessories, like towel bars and rings with Moen’s innovative Press & Mark technology, ensure fast and accurate installation. Accessories with the technology have a washable ink stamp to show exactly where to drill (perfect for novice DIYers).

Homebuyers (especially first timers) can often be overwhelmed with improvements, but tackling one project at a time will leave you saying “there’s no place like home.”

 

Police Department Issues New Address

Staff Reports

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

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

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

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

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

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

Safe Drug Disposal

By Walnut/DB Sheriff’s Station
Do not flush unused, unwanted, and expired medications down the toilet or put them in drains!

How should I dispose of my medications?

For your convenience, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department offers a Safe Drug Drop Off program where both controlled and non-controlled substances are accepted. Take medications/drugs to the Walnut Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station for safe and anonymous disposal. The mailboxes on the front steps of the Walnut Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Station are designated for anonymous drop-off of all types of drugs.

You can also return your medications to a pharmacy near you. Some pharmacies offer take-back and/or mail-back programs.

What kind of medications/drugs can be dropped off?

Prescription medications
Illegal drugs
Over-the-counter medications
Aspirin, ibuprofen, etc.
Cold/flu remedies
Birth control pills
Hormone replacement drugs
Veterinary medicines
Codeine, phenobarbital, and anabolic steroids, narcotics, tranquilizers, etc

Why is this important?

Medications flushed down the toilet or in drains pass through the sewer system and eventually enter our streams, lakes, and rivers. Medicines and synthetic hormones have been detected in trace amounts in bodies of water. This could lead to increased bacterial resistance to antibiotics and interference with growth and reproduction in aquatic organisms such as fish, frogs and all marine life.

The presence of medications in the environment is a complex issue and the risk to humans and the environment is still being determined. With tens of thousands of medicinal products on the market and more being developed each year, the long-term risks have not been determined on the effects on the environment. However, in order to minimize the potential negative and irreversible impacts, it is important that we limit the disposal of waste medications to the sewer.

(Some excerpts taken from Los Angeles Department of Public Works, Environmental Programs Division)
Contact Information: Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff Station – 909-595-2264,

 

Former K-Mart Center Building

By Marissa Mitchell

 

Diamond Bar – Many citizens in the city of Diamond Bar are wondering just what is going on at Diamond Bar Boulevard (where the “old K-Mart” used to reside), and there is thankfully some new revealing information.

Diamond Bar’s Kmart store, which included 84,000 square feet of inside retail space plus a garden center of about 10,000 square feet, opened in 1975 and closed in 2014 amid the company’s ongoing financial struggles.

While the property is managed by private owners, construction is currently underway. According to Community Development Director Greg Gubman, there have been several approvals solidified thus far of new tenants in what will become the renovated building. Of those tenants, Sprouts Market and Ross are confirmed, and will be completed and operational by the projected date of Dec. 2017.

“It was a long, slow death,” said Greg Gubman, the city’s community development director. “Kmart and Sears have both been struggling and Kmart had more value in the land lease than in the general sales from that site. They sold their lease to the property owner.”

Gubman also said that there have been a few approved establishments for the empty lot space just adjacent to Diamond Bar Boulevard: Chipotle and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, the latter of which will have a drive through. These are also estimated to be completed by the end of the year, though that completion time may run into early next year.

Sprouts Farmers Market is in the process of hiring more than 100 employees for a 30,000-square-foot Diamond Bar location that will occupy part of a former Kmart store.

The market, at 239 S. Diamond Bar Blvd., is scheduled to open Oct. 11 and openings are available for a variety of full- and part-time positions, including department managers, produce, dairy and bakery clerks, meat cutters and administrative and scan coordinators, among other roles.

More information can be found at sprouts.com/careers or by calling 866-925-2396.

There will be additional tenants occupying the renovated former K-Mart building, and the private owners of the property are still securing those tenants.

When asked how this will benefit the city, Director Gubman said, “These various retail uses will help diversify the revenues for the city of Diamond Bar.” This is not only needed in the community, it is greatly desired, as the current state does not provide benefit or aesthetic appeal.

One of the goals delineated by the City Council at the beginning of the year to promote long-term economic development was the following: “In cooperation with the property owners, redevelop the K-Mart site to include retail and restaurant options.”

Gubman said a Ross Dress for Less will move into another portion of the building and a third section will be subdivided between three tenants that have yet to be named. Another 10,000-square-foot addition to the building is under construction where the garden center used to be.

“They are also proposing two drive-thru buildings out front,” he said. “One would have a Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf and a Chipotle Mexican Grill and another building would have a Habit hamburger restaurant.”

The new lineup of stores is tentatively going to be called Diamond Bar Ranch. It sits adjacent to the Diamond Bar Plaza shopping center.

Gubman said the city is glad to see Sprouts and other stores preparing to move in.

“We’re pleased that we’re getting national retailers,” he said. “The community seems pretty excited about a Sprouts coming in.”

The building’s conversion also has generated some welcome construction jobs. Tony Gonzales of Savant Construction Inc. in Chino said his company has 15 to 20 workers doing interior work on the Sprouts store.

“We’ve been here for about three months,” he said. “We tore out the slab and did new concrete, electrical and plumbing work, lighting and all of the finishes.”

The city is now fulfilling that objective, much to the relief of many Diamond Bar residents.

Non Profits Under Scrutiny

Staff Reports

Eastvale – Local nonprofits have been under scrutiny and a lawsuit is being filed this week, which has opened a can of worms in compliance and liability. Some non-profits have reportedly experienced mishandlings of their finances, refusals to release tax records, and non-filings of IRS documents. A local Chamber is now being sued and other non profits are being requested to show their finances.

The local Chamber of Commerce is being sued this week as legal documents were completed and were ordered to be filed. The exact amount and the defendants, which are the board of directors for refusing to pay and respond, will be released once the suit has been filed in court. Releasing the names of the board members personally being sued prior to the filing would be considered “third party disclosure.” After the filing all information will be released as it will then become public record, and the lawsuit will lead to subpoenas of their finances.

“The board members are covered under their Directors and Officers (D&O) insurance,” said a local agency who insures non-profits. “They will be fine as long as they have the required insurance. If a non-profit is running without D&O, they can be assuming personal liability.”

Incorporated non-profits are usually not personally liable unless neglect or specific harm is inflicted. But other ways a nonprofit board member might be held liable include:

  • When a board member directly injures someone on purpose
  • When a board member guarantees a loan or other business debt for the nonprofit which then defaults on that loan or debt
  • When a board fails to make sure that the organization deposits payroll and property taxes or files mandated tax returns.
  • When a board member engages in fraudulent activities or does something illegal or just plain reckless that causes harm, or mixes up nonprofit and personal funds.

As long as the nonprofit is incorporated and board members do nothing “bad,” they should be fine, however, serving on the board of an unincorporated nonprofit.

Board members, in that case, are not protected the way they are in an incorporated nonprofit. These types of nonprofits are more common than you might think, so check the organization’s incorporation papers before agreeing to serve on a board. If you are already involved in an unincorporated nonprofit, consider the pros and cons of incorporating.  You and your fellow board members might sleep better if you took the steps to become incorporated.

Just to make sure that no legal actions slip through the cracks of incorporation law, most experts do recommend that nonprofits purchase Directors and Officer (D & O) liability insurance to protect against certain kinds of lawsuits and other types of litigation.

Local non profits are many, and all must have a 501 (c) (3) status granted by the IRS. A specific rule on nonprofits is that the debt follows the entity.

So who is qualified to be a nonprofit? According to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the Exempt Organizations Select Check (Publication 78 database) provides a partial listing of organizations that have been recognized by the IRS as eligible to receive tax-deductible contributions. For information on other organizations that have been recognized by the IRS as tax-exempt organizations, you may call IRS Customer Service at 877-829-5500. You can also contact them through any of the other methods described in Publication 557. This information can be found at IRS.gov. A contributor can also check an organization’s exemption letter, which states the Code section that describes the organization and whether contributions made to the organization are deductible.

The IRS sometimes recognizes a group of organizations as tax-exempt if they are affiliated with a central organization. This avoids the need for each of the organizations to apply for exemption individually. For more information, see Publication 4573, Group Exemptions. Subordinate organizations exempt under group rulings are not separately listed in the Select Check (Publication 78 database); see Eligible Donees Generally Not Listed in Publication 78

According to the IRS, you have the right to inspect and obtain a copy of a tax-exempt organization’s:

Annual information returns (e.g., Form 990);

Exempt status application materials; and

Notice of status under Internal Revenue Code section 527(i),

In person at the organization’s principal office, or its regional or district offices, during regular business hours. Unrelated business income tax returns filed by organizations exempt under Code section 501(c)(3) are also available. You may also request copies of such materials in writing. The organization may charge a reasonable fee to cover copying and mailing costs.

You are entitled to inspect or receive a copy of any annual return for three years from the date the return was required to be filed (or, for an amended return, from the date it was filed). For more information, see the IRS’ frequently asked questions on public disclosure, the final regulations, or Disclosure Requirements at IRS.gov.

For exemption application materials, you are entitled to inspect or receive a copy of the organization’s exemption application (Form 1023, 1024, or other document required to be filed), any papers filed in support of the application and any determination letter issued by the IRS with respect to the application.

Stay tuned for our print edition to print the public record and our online version for updates, and an ongoing investigation highlighting local non profits and their compliance to IRS laws.

NonProfitGraph

Adding A Family Member To Your Home

Created by PressFoto – Freepik.com

By Jennifer Williams, 2nd Chances Rescue Norco

So you’re thinking about adding a new family member to your home? One with four legs and fur?? Let’s talk about the things that you should be considering:

  1. How much free time do I have to spend with my new friend?
  2. Do I care if my favorite pair of slippers gets chewed up if I forget and leave them out?
  3. Is there a way for my new friend to get outside and “do his business”??

If after you’ve thought about those three things you’re still thinking it might be a good idea to add a new family member, let’s talk about the decision to get either a puppy or an adult dog. While puppies can be a lot of fun, they also mean you need to potty train, leash train, probably will need to buy a mountain of chew toys and there might be a few other minor changes made in your life.

There are many adult dogs that need homes because their owner could no longer take care of them. These dogs have already probably been housetrained, are mostly done with the chewing phase, and you pretty much know what you’re getting- especially if you get one from a rescue.

What’s your narrow that down, start thinking about the types of breeds that are available. There are small dogs, medium dogs, big dogs, and super sized dogs. There are also low-energy medium energy and high-energy dogs.

For example if your perfect dog is one that wants to just cuddle up on the couch and watch movies till dawn with you, there’s a perfect breed for you! Our next article will be about different types of breeds and what’s the best for you!

Chino Hills Vacant Seat Open

Photo courtesy: Google Images
Chino Hills Councilman Ed Graham’s abrupt resignation leaves an open seat on the City Council.

By Michael Armijo

Chino Hills – After the abrupt resignation of councilman Ed Graham, the Chino Hills City Council voted to appoint his successor instead of electing one, a move that will save the city around $100,000 for a special election. The term ends a year from November in 2018 and Residents must apply by July 31.

Why Graham abruptly resigned seems to still be a mystery, although many community members are thinking he has his priorities in order.

“I hear he’s been traveling with his family a lot, and family is first in my book,” said 20 year resident of Chino Hills Ben Cortes. “He placed his priorities in order and I respect that. I wish him well.”

Graham resigned abruptly on July 7, 2017 in a one line hand written resignation letter: “Effective by the end of the business day today, I resign my position on the city council.” He then signed and dated it.

Graham was reportedly the last original councilman, being voted on the city council in 1991 and served as mayor six times.

According to the California Government Code, the council has 60 days from the beginning of the vacancy to either call for a special election or fill the vacancy by appointment. The council voted 4-0, with Mr. Graham’s seat vacant, to appoint a successor by Sept. 5 2017.

The council had previously voted 5-0 last November to change the current system of electing officials “at large” but instead to vote per district. This means each area of the city will promote their candidate based on geology opposed to the age old popularity contest. They were reportedly threatened by an advocacy group or face a lawsuit, local reports said.

Since Graham was elected under the old rule, that you can live anywhere within city limits, the appointee will not be required to abide by the new law, which goes into effect next year in November. He or she will just have to live within the city limits of Chino Hills.

Once suggestion from a community member was to appoint a candidate from the previous election. Those three are Jim Gallagher, Rosanna Mitchell-Arietta, and Paul Molinaro. Mr. Gallagher and Ms. Mitchell-Arrieta said they would apply for the seat, although Mr. Molinaro reportedly said he requested an application but is undecided if he will apply.

The applications must be returned via hand delivery or mail by 5:30 p.m. Monday, July 31 to the city clerk’s office at Chino Hills City Hall, 14000 City Center Drive.

Applications may be obtained from the city clerk’s office or by visiting www.chinohills.org and clicking “city council vacancy” under the heading “In the Spotlight” on the left side of the home page.

The application includes a questionnaire consisting of 14 questions, such as: have you reviewed the city budget, have you reviewed the city’s general plan, and have you attended or participated in civic meetings. The selected resident will serve on the city council until November 2018.

City Installs New Signs

Courtesy City of Eastvale

 

Eastvale – The City of Eastvale will be installing 18 new signs at 9 different locations throughout Eastvale to prohibit “Commercial Trailer/Semi Trailer” and “Commercial Vehicles with Gross Vehicle Weight over 10,000lbs” from parking in the Residential District, under the Eastvale Municipal Code (EMC) 10.20.160.
The following locations are where the new signs will be posted:

Northbound Hamner Avenue between Citrus Street and Schleisman Road

Westbound Limonite Avenue, West of the I-15

Southbound Hamner Avenue, South of Bellgrave Avenue

Westbound of 68th Street, East of Tarah Street

Westbound Bellgrave Avenue, West of I-15

Southbound Archibald Avenue, North of Limonite Avenue

Eastbound Schleisman Road, East of Hellman Avenue

Eastbound Chandler Street, East of Hellman Avenue

Nortbound Archibald Avenue, North of the Santa Ana River Bridg

If you have any questions please call Public Works at (951) 703-4470.