Category Archives: Weekly News Columns

Housing Inventory Shortage Solutions

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

The Housing Inventory Shortage is becoming a bigger problem in many ways.  Economics 101 taught us that the change in either side of the Supply-Demand equation will create a change in outcomes to the marketplace. In this case, the Housing inventory is the supply, and being an illiquid investment, it does not change very fast.  It is fixed and immovable, and therefore more constant than the Demand side.  Major factors that have contributed to the low level of “Supply” growth need to be addressed for the long-term stability of the housing market. If the low levels of new home construction are not encouraged or allowed to grow, we will eventually suffer from an unbalanced, constricted real estate market.  Legislation at the state and local levels needs to become more “builder-friendly”, to allow more units to be built annually. The legislation, policies, and planning has to become more streamlined and less expensive to the developer in order to allow for a more balanced real estate market.  Part of the change has to be in the form of less restrictive zoning regulations.  It doesn’t benefit our communities when only a few can afford to buy and own a home.

The Demand side of the equation is driven more by population growth, and the populace’s desire and ability to purchase a home. The low interest rate environment continues to fuel the demand, as it has continued to keep the homeownership demand at a steadily increasing level. As long as the interest rates stay relatively low, we will continue to see the steady demand that has driven the 7 % annual median sales price increase of homes in Southern California. The positive outlook for the local real estate market was presented to us by Dr John Husing at the Real Estate Research Council of Southern California’s Quarterly Luncheon at Cal Poly Pomona. The improved economy, with employment continuing to grow, and the low interest rate environment is projected to remain steady for the next year.

This article was written by Nef Cortez, a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca BRE # 00560181 since 1976. He can be reached via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com.  Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.

Free Counseling is Available

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

By Nancy Stoops

For the past twenty years I have had the honor of facilitating a free counseling group every Monday evening.  Our group meets at the Walnut Teen Center and Gymnasium located at 21003 La Puente road in the city of Walnut.  We meet year round from 6-8p.m. every Monday unless it is a holiday.  Their phone number is (909) 444-0089 and my contact number is 909 229-0727 should you have any questions.  You do not need to have any appointment to attend this group you are all free to drop by anytime.  This group satisfies many court mandated needs.

Even though this group meets at a teen center I invite people of all ages with all types of issues.  This group helps parents, students, and all people that are just struggling in their lives.  My goal is to just make our community be healthier and make its’ population be effective in their lives and create successful human beings.  We work on any array of issues that many people present day are dealing with. There is no reason for anybody to be stuck in an unhealthy place.

If you are tired of the fight between you and your child regarding homework or need some more effective ways to communicate this is the group for you.  Maybe depression or anxiety seems to be holding you or a loved one back and finding solutions could be life changing.  If you or somebody you know is struggling with drugs or drinking this group is a great place to get some coping skills to get clean.  We talk about ways to deal with bullies and how damaging it can be for somebody’s self-esteem.  Bring in an issue and I promise you will feel hopeful and have new tools to help you confront the issue head on.  Don’t let embarrassment stop you or a loved one from getting the help you need to reclaim the wonderful life you are so deserving of.

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens.  For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjsttops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

 

 

The Solar Eclipse: Part 1

By Mark Hopper

 

I shared in a previous article that my wife and I were on our way to see the Solar Eclipse.  We sensed the excitement and anticipation as we waited at airports for our flight.  There was a “buzz” in the air.

We flew to Des Moines, Iowa, and spent two days with a friend and visited an older family member.  The next day, we drove our rental car from Iowa south to our destination in St. Joseph , Missouri.  I had researched the path of the total eclipse on the internet.  It was going completely across the United States from Oregon to South Carolina.

St. Joseph, Missouri was directly in the path of the eclipse.  This small city on the Missouri River had prepared for this event for several years.  They opened up a huge piece of land next to the regional airport.  They sold camp sites and parking spaces preparing for 20,000 people.  They did a very good job preparing for this invasion of out-of-state visitors.

One of the things that no one could prepare for was the weather.  Most websites predicted clear skies in the western states but more possibilities of clouds and rain in the central and eastern parts of the country.  Weather predictions for our area looked good.  They had been having a very dry summer and the forecasts anticipated nice, clear skies.

However, it rained heavily the first two nights we were in Des Moines.  Thunder storms unleashed a total of three inches of rain.  Not a good omen.   When we left Des Moines at 4:00 AM on the day of the eclipse, it was raining heavily.  But as we drove further south things looked better. The rain stopped but when the sun came up around 6:00 AM it was still cloudy.

We left extra early because we anticipated heavy traffic on Interstate 35.  We were surprised that the traffic was unexpectedly light!  We got to St. Joseph in less than three hours.  Things went smoothly.  The city of St. Joe was ready for all of the solar visitors like us.  But, the clouds lingered overhead as we parked our car at 7:30 in the morning.                                                                                It was a festive atmosphere at the viewing site.  People set up tents and lawn shade pop ups to provide some relief from the summer sun.  We met people who had come from Minnesota to Texas.  It was a friendly crowd.  Food vendors sold all kinds of goodies and my wife insisted that we purchase a T-shirt for me to remember this special event.  The shirt had an image of the total eclipse on the front and a map of the path of the eclipse on the back.

We sat down on our borrowed lawn chairs and waited for the big event.  We had come a long way to witness this once in a lifetime phenomenon.  I’ll share more with you in my next article.

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

 

What Ever Happened To Play?

By Nancy Stoops

It is frightening how many children are brought to me each for anxiety.  When did children start taking meds for anxiety? When I was growing up I didn’t even know what that word meant.  It was play that saved me from my hard days and that was how I worked through my emotions.  It was play that was a breeding ground for my imagination.  Whether I was creating underwater adventures in my wagon or putting on shows in my back yard it was play that I always looked forward to.  I’m not talking about video games but the kind of play that actually involves getting dirty.  Being the little tomboy I always had skinned knees and elbows from performing stunts on my bicycle or skateboard.

The best part of me is the little five year old that still lives within me and the truth is she still likes getting dirty and playing.  Turn off that television and take your child to the park to play or for a hike.  Tell everybody to put down those electronics and go ride horses together as a family, set up a camp in your back yard or anything else that involves play and imagination. Play relieves stress and keeps us very young in mind body and spirit.  Stop over scheduling your children and just let them have some time to play and just be children. Did you know that more than fifty percent of all the illnesses in this country are stress related?  Teaching your child that play is wonderful is a fabulous tool for prevention of such illnesses.

I know school just started and I say make this the most balanced year for your child.  Help them find time for their school work as well as time to play.  I promise if you can facilitate this you will see a much happier, more successful and relaxed student and child.

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Nancy is now accepting new clients.  She also works as a motivational speaker.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens and can handle many court mandated needs.  For more information about any of these services contact Nancy at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

Little Friends

By Mark Hopper

I was driving in Yorba Linda recently and saw a sign in front of a church.  It was Rose Drive Friends Church.  I have heard many good things about the church.  The sign in front of the church read, “Now Enrolling: Rose Drive Friends School & Little Friends Preschool”.  The phrase “Little Friends” caught my attention.  I like the way they said that their Preschool was for “Little Friends”.  It brought a smile to my face.  Yes – preschool children are like “little friends”.

I know this month is the start of another school year.  For most children, it is a familiar routine.  They are moving up from one grade to another.  Some of the older ones will graduate at the end of this school year.  But, for some of the “little ones” this will be their first time in school.  They will be leaving the familiar routine of their home life and launching into a new world of teachers and students in a classroom setting. The children will probably adapt well to this new world.  But, sometimes the parents have a harder time enrolling their children in school for the first time.  I remember a kindergarten teacher saying that the parents were more of a problem than the children.   The teacher drew a line on the side walk at the entrance of her classroom and instructed the parents to wait behind the line.  It was difficult for the parents to comply.

There is a passage in the Bible that reveals how much Jesus loved “little ones”.  In Matthew chapter 19, Jesus’ disciples tried to prevent the little children from bothering Jesus.  But, Jesus opened his arms and embraced them.  Verse 14 says, “Let the little ones come to me. Do not hinder them, for the Kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these”. In an earlier chapter Jesus said, “Unless you change and become like little children, you can not enter the Kingdon of Heaven”. He went on to say that we need to humble ourselves like a child in our relationship with God. (Matthew 18:3-4).

We can learn a lot about our relationship with God from these “Little Ones”.  Faith is not complicated.  It is simple.  Trusting, believing and coming to God with child like faith.  God is not looking for academic credentials and deep theological concepts.  He is inviting us to come to Him with child like faith.  Trust Him and come to Him just as a child does his or her earthly mother and father. You may have a child or grandchild who is starting school this year.  I hope that they will enjoy this new step in their life.  I hope you remember to say a prayer for your “little ones” and for their teachers.  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

Housing the Homeless Part 3

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

The National Alliance to End Homelessness reports that there are currently over 500,000 homeless people in the United States. We have all seen “the homeless” as we drive to and from work, while running errands, at freeway off-ramps, underneath freeway overpasses, along the Santa Ana River near Anaheim Stadium. The 1/2 million homeless is such a large number that it is hard to fully appreciate its “largeness”. The number is equivalent to the population of cities as large as Fresno, Ca or Mission Viejo, Ca.

The nation as a whole has seen a decrease of about 10-15% in the last decade. Although that is encouraging, the homeless population has become more concentrated and increased in large cities such as Los Angeles, Ca; San Francisco, Ca; Oakland, Ca; San Diego, Ca; and Anaheim, Ca. Many non-profit organizations are involved in the effort to end homelessness. Many Cities are have implemented or are implementing programs to deal with the problem.  Residents of Los Angeles County voted this past election cycle to impose upon themselves a 5 cent sales tax to fund the effort to fight homelessness.

Where does organized real estate fit into the picture?

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) has within its stated motto “helping its members become more profitable and successful”. True success for its members is achieved through the preservation of the rights of property owners to own, use, and transfer real property. Without the preservation of these rights, it becomes impossible for the industry to survive, let alone allow for its members to “become more profitable” as stated in the organization’s “Mission”.  In my opinion, Organized Real Estate has an obligation to be an active participant and become more engaged in the effort to fight “Homelessness”.

How does the Real Estate Industry’s current efforts impact the effort to house the homeless? How does their concerted effort combined with the lending industry impact or affect the homeless? How should these organizations “behave” as responsible community members and participate in efforts to “house the homeless”?

I will provide answers to these and other questions submitted to me by readers of this paper. Please feel free to submit questions to me at NefCortez@gmail.com, or visit my website at www.nefcortez.com.

This article was written by Nef Cortez who is a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca BRE # 00560181, licensed since 1976. He can be reached via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com, or website www.nefcortez.com. Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.

 

—

NEF CORTEZ,  Broker  CalBRE # 00560181 Certified REO Broker Certified Distress Property Expert

ReMax Realty 100

1411 S. Diamond Bar Blvd.,

Diamond Bar, Ca.  91765

e-mail: nefcortez@gmail.com

Office: 909-610-6303 Fax:  909-752-3163 Cell: 909-762-8135

 

 

Being Back In School

By Nancy Stoops

 

I work with so many young people that have recently started school again.  They are all feeling a lot of stress due to the transition from summer to school.  The homework is coming at what seems to be a rapid pace. It’s important for these students to take one day at a time and to not overwhelm themselves.  Going back to school after summer break has been hard on every generation.  It’s important for these students to be well organized with a good notebook and a separate folder for each subject.  It’s a good idea for them to have a folder for work and papers that need to come home and another for what needs to be turned in or go back with them.  A place for pens and other necessary supplies is essential.

I find so many students really struggle with time management and are starting homework much too late in the evening after they have already been up for ten to twelve hours.  It’s ideal for a student to come home and have a good snack and start their homework about thirty minutes after they have arrived home.  I think if they can get their homework out of the way they might actually have part of an evening to relax and renew to prepare the right mindset for the next day.  It’s hard to a successful anything if one is running on fumes. Another important essential is a designated place to study.

Learning is really a lifelong event and it’s important to help somebody be an effective learner.  Being organized, not becoming over whelmed, learning effective time management and having an environment conducive to learning can make a huge difference.  As parents it is our job to help our children with these things so they can be successful lifetime learners!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancystoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

 

Back To School

By Mark Hopper

Everywhere you look these days, there are reminders that school will be starting again soon. My credit card company is encouraging me to use my credit card for back to school shopping. I guess they don’t know our children are actually out of college!

Retail stores are advertising back to school sales for clothes, school supplies, back packs and much more. I heard a news report that said this has become one of the busiest shopping seasons of the year as parents spend more money getting their kids ready for school.

I suspect that most children are excited to be going back to school. They will reconnect with their friends and get to meet their new teachers. School has a way of connecting the community like few other things.

I suspect that a lot of parents are also glad that school is starting again, too. Stay-home moms and dads have worked hard keeping the kids busy through the summer months. I’m sure that most parents are looking forward to having a little less time with their kids and a little more time to get things done without children in the house.

When I was in elementary school, I remember the excitement and anticipation of the new school year. Some friends and I would ride our bicycles to our local school to see if the class rosters were posted yet. We speculated on which teacher we would get and wondered if we would be in the same classes together. It was a special day when the names of the teachers and their students were posted on the windows of the school cafeteria.

My wife taught sixth grade in our local school district for many years. She enjoyed sixth graders. She said that they were still young enough to be respectful and well behaved. At the same time they were old enough to study, learn and discuss subjects in a responsible way.

My wife also shared her observation that most middle school students usually have one difficult year on their journey in 6th, 7th or 8th grade. During those “middle” years, boys and girls can feel awkward and uncomfortable what the changes they are experienceing. But, good teachers can usually nurture and encourage these students on their journey through middle school.

I believe that education is a team effort. School teachers, parents and churches share the privilege and responsibility of educating our children. I encourage parents to not expect school teachers and Sunday School teachers to do all the work for them. Parents play a critical role in their children’s academic, spiritual and moral training.

Let me encourage parents to get involved and stay involved in your children’s education. Don’t assume others will do the job for you. Help your kids with their home work. Get connected with their teachers – both at school and at church. Send a note or small gift to those who are teaching and training your children. Teachers work very hard. Thank their teachers – at school and at church – for the investment they are making in your child’s life.

You can see it on TV and at the mall. You can find the latest bargains on line. School is starting again soon. I hope that this will be a wonderful school year for you and your children.

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

Housing the Homeless Part 2

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

Last week I wrote Part 1 of Housing the Homeless. Questions were posed as related to Organized Real Estate’s efforts to participate in the fight to end homelessness. As evident in cities across the country, it is a big problem that has had very negative effects on the quality of life for citizens across most communities.  This huge problem has seen  a small reduction in its size and numbers over the last decade.

There are many Realtors who individually have been involved with the effort to end homelessness. One of the most widely supported organizations has been Habitat for Humanity. Members of Tri-Counties Association of Realtors have helped to build homes through their involvement with Habitat for Humanity by donating time, talent, and money to the effort.

The primary effort that I found to be the most commonly participated in by members of Realtor associations was the assistance given to First Time Homebuyers through special programs. Many of these programs provide grants of money to assist the buyers in completing their required down payments, or are given in the form of special loans that may be non-interest bearing or have the interest forgiven if the buyer lives in  the home for a given minimum period of years.

There are many other non-profits in communities across the state where Realtors have been very involved. Beside Habitat for Humanity, many Realtors are involved through churches and faith-based organizations to assist in providing food and shelter for the homeless. Many Realtors have found it very rewarding to “Give Back” to their communities by joining the fight to end homelessness.

(In last week’s article, a typo  was made as to the percentage of the increase in sales tax passed by voters of Los Angeles County. Measure H increased the sales tax by ¼ of one cent, not the ½ cent I reported)

Straight Talk With Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi,

I’m going out with a new guy that I met at my spinning class.  He always takes me out for smoothies after class and seems like he is very health conscious.  He drinks lots of water during our work out and eats fruit and protein bars as snacks.  Last weekend we went to the beach.  When he went into a sandwich shop to get food for our picnic lunch I took a drink of what I thought was iced tea in his travel tumbler cup.  I was surprised to taste alcohol and he was driving us around while he is drinking.  I really like him so I decided not to say anything, but this bothers me.  My health is my top priority and he knows that I only drink on special occasions.  Should I wait and try his drinks a few more times to see if this is a habit?  Did I mention that I really like him?  I’m so disappointed.  Help…

Linda

 

 

Dear Linda,

Intelligent, healthy people are generally opposed to drinking and driving.  I’m having great trouble making sense of your date’s behavior.  On one hand he displays healthy behavior; on the other hand, he is secretly putting you both in danger by drinking and driving.  It’s my experience when people take steps to hide what they are doing that’s a red flag and cause for concern.  If he was openly taking you to lunch in a restaurant and ordering a cocktail I would be fine with it.  If he took you on a picnic and openly had a cocktail I would not raise an eyebrow, but hiding the fact that he is drinking is unimpressive and causes me to wonder what his consumption is really like.  Causal drinkers don’t feel the need to hide the fact that they have a drink on occasion.  If you really like him then address it, but don’t be surprised to find out that this is a much bigger problem than you’re prepared to handle.  If he admits he has a problem and is willing to seek help, consider sticking around awhile and perhaps show support for his progress, but don’t count on this happening.  He knows he has a problem, that’s why he’s hiding it.  Ultimately, he has to be ready to do this for himself.  Please be wise in your choices.  This is a big issue for a new relationship.

Danice Akiyoshi ND

 Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com

Feeling Overwhelmed

By Nancy Stoops

We tell ourselves that we are given what we can handle.  Sometimes it sure does feel like we are given way more then we can or should have to handle.  I laugh to myself and think my creator must think I’m superwoman and must think so much of me to give me such a load to overcome.  Well that’s the positive to think about all of it.  At the time when I’m going through all of it, there isn’t anything that feels complimentary about my pain.  I just know that I have to find solutions and work through it.  After all we are here to learn the lessons we are supposed to learn. I bet many of you reading this understand what I’m saying.  Just when I feel overwhelmed I am reminded of all that I have already overcome.  This helps remind me that I have learned what I need to do to overcome issues.  I have the tools and I bet you forgot you have them too.

I bet you have forgotten how very strong and tenacious you are.  I bet you have forgotten all that you have already overcome.  I bet you forgot to remind yourself that we are only given what we can handle.  So just for a moment close your eyes and feel the strength that lives within.  Now remind yourself about all that you have overcome and worked through.  In this moment let the self- pride shower over you.  Now let it go and let those tears run down your cheeks.  Do you feel the peace inside reminding yourself of just how awesome you are?  So now create a plan to chip away a little bit each day.  Also as each day comes to end learn to pat yourself on the back for who you are today and promise that with each tomorrow there will come a better YOU!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Nancy is now accepting new clients.  She also works as a motivational speaker.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens and can handle many court mandated needs.  For more information about any of these services contact Nancy at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

 

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

As Good As It Gets

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

By Nancy Stoops

 

Have you ever had a moment that just feels totally perfect?  Do you ever go through chunks of time feeling so in sync with the world?  Isn’t it just wonderful when you feel that blissful momentum just carrying though.  These are the times I believe that things feel as good as they can possibly get.  This is the mode I strive to live my life in.  To me there is nothing quit as wonderful as feeling that just for a moment or a day that life is as good as it could possibly be. I think these are the times that we truly are so blessed to feel a little bit of heaven on earth.

It seems to me the more I live my life the way I’m intended to I’m honored with more and more of these “as good as it gets” moments.  For me they come at different times and during various activities.  I can be with a client in session and they finally see what they have been needing to see to heal and that is as good as it gets.  Just recently I took my ten year old grandson and my son to Knott’s Berry Farm and I watched my grandson light up as he experienced all the rides and our time together there.  To me, that’s as good as it gets.  My mother is still alive at ninety-two and hanging out with her, well that’s as good as it gets.  Every morning my dog Midnight and I go walking for miles and we start our day together out in nature and that is as good as it gets.  Every time I hear music or see something that ignites my spirit, I just know instinctually it’s a good as it gets.

I hope all of you get to experience this wonderful feeling.  It’s about striving to live the best life that seems to bring these perfect moments or chunks of time to us!!!!!

 

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Nancy is now accepting new clients.  She also works as a motivational speaker.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens and can handle many court mandated needs.  For more information about any of these services contact Nancy at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

 

 

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

Calling For Responsible Pet Owners

By Nancy Stoops

 

It is on behalf of dogs everywhere that I write this article.  Being the proud owner of Midnight, the black lab/black shepherd mix shown with me in my photograph is truly a joy and honor.  Midnight is nine-years-old and very healthy.  Midnight and I take lots of long walks in our neighborhood and he has many buddies along the way.  Some of his buddies are very well cared for and live safe lives.  But some of his buddies aren’t so lucky and are let out to walk themselves.

I can’t believe how many wonderful dogs I have seen without tags and let out by themselves.  I can’t believe how many dogs end up hit by cars and die because they are illegally let out by themselves.  Legally dogs are supposed to be licensed, vaccinated and leashed when they are out off their property.  They should be walked by humans that can help guide them on what is safe and what is not when they are out of their house or yard.

A dog is a huge responsibility and an enormous joy.  Caring for a dog properly involves feeding them healthy food, cleaning them, vet visits, walks, licensing them, cleaning up after them, and always providing clean drinking water and shelter and lots of love, affection and attention.  It’s not okay to have a dog or any animal that is neglected.  There have been many new laws passed to help protect animals and people lose them everyday because of neglect.  So I ask you to think about all of this before you get an animal.  I beg you to stop allowing your dogs to walk themselves.  I ask you to understand how helpless they are and how much they count on us to care properly for them.  Please take the time to be a responsible and loving pet owner!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. 

Diamond Bar Home Prices Still Up!

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

Home prices of those transferring ownership in Diamond Bar during the second quarter of 2017 maintained the high levels reached in the first quarter.  These prices maintain historically high levels not seen since the housing market peak of 2006. Including single family residences (SFR), townhomes, and condominiums, the current median sales price of homes in Diamond Bar (according to Zillow-a data aggregator), is $641,000. According to the Multiple Listing Service (MLS), a more accurate database maintained by the local realtor groups, the median sales price of all sales in the second quarter of 2017 for Diamond Bar was $625,000.  The Median Sales price of single family residence (SFR) sales only in Diamond Bar for the second quarter of 2017 was $715,000. The median sales price for a SFR in Diamond Bar, as a comparison was $657,000 in the second quarter of 2016. This represents an annual median sales price increase of 8.8 %! That is a substantial gain!

The median sales price for condominiums and townhomes in Diamond Bar for the second quarter of 2017 was $360,000. In comparison, the median sales price for this type of housing stock in 2016 was $349,000 which represents an annual increase of $11,000 (a little over 3% annual increase).

Home prices in the US have continued their steady rise after the dramatic drop in 2007-2008 fiscal year.  Nationally, the expansion in home prices has continued since the low point of $152,000 reached at the end of the first quarter of 2012. Although it has suffered some fits and starts through the 8 year dip and then ascension, the national median price has increased in that period of time by a strong 29 %.

It is evident that the housing market in Diamond Bar continues to increase, and is proving to be a boon to Homebuyers!

This article was written by Nef Cortez who is a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca BRE # 00560181, licensed since 1976. He can be reached via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com, or website www.nefcortez.com. Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.

 

Anxiety And Our Youth

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist

By Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.

I have been a psychotherapist for seventeen years and have worked with people of all ages with various issues.  I’m constantly amazed when I have a child or teen brought to me for anxiety issues. We seem to have created a generation that feels very inadequate and struggles with growing up and being successful.  The issues this generation worries about are things my generation didn’t have to deal with.

Our colleges are impacted and hard to get into.  Now kindergarteners have homework and are expected to read and know many more things.  Video games and television are replacing playing outdoors in the fresh air and getting much needed exercise.  This outdoor playing is such a great way to reduce or eliminate stress.  Social media unfortunately has made this generation very lazy and childhood obesity and diabetes are on the rise.

As parents and community leaders we have a social responsibility to help this generation find a healthy balance in their lives in every area.  We need to support and encourage our youth.  We need to provide the necessary tools to help them strive to become their best.  We need to have faith in our youth as some many of them are diamonds in the rough.  We need to give them guidance and tools to help them shine and reach their full potential.

We need to teach the teens that problems can we worked through and that drinking and drugs are not a solution.  We need to teach them how to meditate not medicate to quiet their busy minds.  We need to teach them how to relax by finding balance, getting organized, prioritizing and effectively managing their time and communicating what’s working and not working in their lives.  Please don’t assume they are all pot smoking video game playing lazy worthless human beings.  They are just scared and need some help finding their way!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  She has a private practice in Diamond Bar and is currently accepting new clients; she is also a motivational speaker who can inspire your employees or group members.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups on how to manage anger.    For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909) 229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. 

 

 

Hayden & Rhodes

By Pastor Mark Hopper

 

For decades states along the Colorado River like California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada and Colorado had fought in court over how much water each of them should receive from the the river.  In the 1960’s the United States Supreme Court determined that Arizona was entitled to a specific amount of water each year. That major decision opened the way for the building of a canal to bring water from the Colorado River to Phoenix and eventually to Tucson.  The canal was called the Central Arizona Project.  During the following decade, the federal government voted to spend millions of dollars to construct this aquaduct across the Arizona desert.

Previously, most of the water in Phoenix came from the Salt and Verde rivers.  Huge dams along those rivers captured and stored water that was eventually funneled into Phoenix through a network of canals. Most of the water used in Tucson came from underground aquafirs.  Water was pumped by farmers and municipalities to provide water for growing crops and serving those living in the greater Tucson area. The Central Arizona Project canal dramatically increased the available water supply to Phoenix and Tucson and to farmers and ranchers throughout central and southern Arizona.

Recently, my wife and I were driving across the desert between Arizona and California on Interstate 10.  This four lane highway crosses over the canal several times.  As we drove over the canal I noticed a sign that read, “Hayden / Rhodes Memorial Aquaduct”.  These two men had led the effort to get the federal funding needed to build the canal.

Carl Hayden was a Senator from Arizona.  In the 1960’s he was the oldest senator in the US Senate.  He was not the majority leader, but he was the oldest and longest serving senator at that time.  I actually had lunch with him in the Senate dining room in the US Capitol when I was a high school student. John Rhodes was a congressman from Arizona in the United States House of Representatives.  He was also the Minority leader in the House,  a very influential position in his party.

Carl Hayden was the leading Democrat in the Senate. John Rhodes was the leading Republican in the House.  They worked together to gain the financial support of the federal government to build the Arizona canal. They were from opposite political parties.  I think Hayden would have been called a moderate or liberal and Rhodes a moderate or conservative.  But, they found a way to work together for the benefit of the people of Arizona.  I’m sure that they had their differences.  I’m sure they did not always vote the same way on every issue.  But, they found a way to work together.

I think many people today are confused and concerned about the polarization in our political system.  Each party accuses the other of misdeeds and misguided ideologies.  Insults are aired on the floor of the House and Senate and in the media. I wonder how we can begin to come together as a country?  How can we put aside the volume of anger and accusations?  How can our leaders find a way to build consensus and compromise? I don’t expect everyone to agree on every topic or piece of legislation. I believe we do need to maintain our values and convictions. But, I think we need more people like Carl Hayden and John Rhodes in our halls of government who are committed to work together for the good of our nation.

I also believe that some prayer would help, too.  The Apostle Paul instructed followers of Jesus to pray for those in postions of authority and government.  He wrote these words in his letter to his young friend Timothy when there was social and political division within the Roman Empire. Let me challenge you to pray for our country.  Pray for those in positions of leadership.  Pray that our country and our citizens will find ways to work together to strengthen the unity of our great nation.

 

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

 

Homeownership is Good for Parents Too!

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

I wrote last week on “Homeownership is Good for Kids!” I explained how in many ways, homeownership impacts children’s development in positive ways. In my 41 year career in the real estate industry, I have seen many instances of this lived out, where my clients bought a home and were able to provide that stable environment for their children. This article explains how homeownership is also good for the parents of those children.

One of the most important benefits to the healthy development of a child is that loving, stable home environment.  Parents who commit to providing that for their children and enhance that effort through the purchase of a home are usually rewarded with the financial benefit of growing equity over the long term.

A stable monthly housing expense is critical to providing that stable home environment that we seek for our children.  Ideally, when buying a home, one is able to qualify for a fixed rate mortgage.  Loan payments are calculated to amortize or pay off over a period of 15, 20, or 30 years. Choosing one with a fixed rate keeps the payments stable and predictable.  If one can make the payments initially- based on the “rule of thumb” that one’s payment should not exceed about a third of one’s monthly income-then it should not be a problem making the payments year in and year out. (This, of course, is barring any unforeseen negative circumstances that may come up, such as loss of job or long-term illness) As time goes by, the equity in the home grows through the pay down of the principal balance or loan amount.  This is a form of “forced savings”, an additional benefit.  Usually, the equity  is increased even more so  through appreciation of property values over time.

Mortgage interest and property taxes paid on the purchase of a home are tax deductible, and are another benefit to homeownership.  This reduces the net or effective payment that the homebuyer makes.  In many cases, the net or effective monthly payment ends up being less than what it would cost to rent a comparable property.  Consistently making the mortgage payment on time will also improve one’s credit, thereby providing an additional benefit of better terms on other interest-bearing debt, such as car loans, student loans, or credit cards.  Factors that contribute to a better financial credit picture will contribute to a healthier financial position. Wealth creation is dependent on good fiscal management, and lower costs on debt supports that effort.

This article was written by Nef Cortez, a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca BRE # 00560181 since 1976. He can be reached via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com.  Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.