Beverly Hills

BEVERLY HILLS—On Wednesday, May 1, the Beverly Hills Police Department announced the start of Bicycle Safety Month. May is National Bicycle Safety Month, and the BHPD is encouraging everyone to get active and safely take bike rides while reminding drivers to be on the lookout for more people biking and walking.

“Everyone deserves to reach their destination safely,” Police Chief Mark G. Stainbrook said. “Unfortunately, there has been an increase in bicycle fatalities and injuries over the last few years. Bicyclists do not have the same protections as people in a vehicle, so if you see a bicyclist — slow down.”

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, there were 1,105 people killed while riding a bike in 2022, and an estimated 46,195 bicyclists were injured. In 2021, 976 bicyclists were killed (a 1.9 percent increase from 2020), and an estimated 41,615 bicyclists were injured (a 7 percent increase from 2020).

In an effort to keep those biking and walking safe, the Police Department will conduct a traffic safety operation on Tuesday, May 21, focused on driver behaviors that put bicyclists and pedestrians at risk, such as speeding, making illegal turns, failure to yield the right of way, and running stop signs or red lights.

Funding for this program is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Saturday, May 11, the city of Beverly Hills will host Wildfire Community Preparedness Day. The event will transpire from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Beverly Hills Fire Department Station #2 located at 1100 Coldwater Canyon. The event is free for the public to attend.

Participants can receive education material and handouts regarding vegetation maintenance, home hardening, fuel modification, and emergency planning.

The city of Beverly Hills indicates on its website that catastrophic brush fires are happening at an increasing rate in the state and across the country. The many hillside communities within Los Angeles are under threat of devastating wildfire. As this risk increases, it is important to plan, prepare, and stay aware.

The “Ready, Set, Go!” program is designed to walk individuals through the steps to take to ensure they are prepared in the case of an approaching wildfire.

Being “Ready” for wildfire starts with maintaining adequate vegetation clearance/maintenance around your home. By following the Beverly Hills Brush Maintenance Program, residents can create an area around their home that is free of dead, dry, and hazardous vegetation. Without this vegetation maintenance, the fire will quickly spread throughout the property and to your home and there is little that can be done to defend it.

In addition to the Brush Clearance Program, individuals can harden the home by using fire-resistant building materials. Flying embers from a wildfire can destroy homes up to a mile away. Individuals should prepare for the possibility of evacuation before the need arrives as a result of a wildfire.

Stay informed by following local media and your Beverly Hills Nixle Alerts via text to BEVHILLS to 888777 to receive text message alerts.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills will be hosting its Building Safety Event as part of Building Safety Month. The event will take place on May 22.

The Building Safety Event, ‘Mission Impossible 2024’ will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The public will be able to discover services available, participate in Q&A sessions, enjoy refreshments, and win prizes.

The public will get the opportunity to connect with Plan Review Engineers, Building Inspectors, other Building and Safety experts and Beverly Hills’ Building Official.

May is Building Safety Month, and the opportunity to highlight the importance of keeping the City of Beverly Hills safe. Building Safety Month is an international campaign celebrated in May to raise awareness about building safety. For more than 43 years, Building Safety Month reinforced the need for the adoption of modern, regularly-updated building codes, and helps individuals, families and businesses understand what it takes to create safe and sustainable structures.

It will be held at the Beverly Hills City Hall – Municipal Gallery located at 455 N. Rexford Drive on the Second Floor.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills will celebrate Public Works Day on Sunday, May 19. The goal of Public Works is to educate the public on the 200 plus employees committed to maintaining and strengthening Beverly Hills’ infrastructure including: traffic and street lights, sidewalks, streets, the stormwater system, City facilities, parks and trees.

In addition, the Public Works Department provides fresh water, trash and recycling service, wastewater removal, and parking at city facilities and meters.

During the event on May 19, free bike repairs will take place and there will also be a collection held for used bicycles.

The Public Works Department will be collecting old bikes or parts that will help less fortunate members of the community to have access to transportation. Non-profit Walk ‘n Rollers will be on-site collecting bicycles to be fixed up and distributed to children and adults without the resources to purchase bikes on their own. Walk ‘n Rollers will also offer free safety inspections and minor bicycle repairs for residents that ride to the event.

The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. It will be held at the Beverly Hills Farmer’s Market (Third St/Civic Center Dr).

For more details on programs and services browse the webpages, follow on social media, sign up for the newsletter “The Backbone,” or contact Public Works Customer Service. For more details about the Department of Public Works, visit www.beverlyhills.org/pw.

By Trevor

SANTA MONICA—On Sunday, April 21, just before 3:00 p.m., the Santa Monica Police Department (SMPD) arrested a single Black male who was grilling meat in his shopping cart. He appeared to be living in homelessness.

The Citizen app first reported a man walking down the bike lane on Ocean Avenue while grilling. He was using a sword as a meat skewer and had a wood fire going in his shopping cart. His fire was put out, and the individual was taken into custody by SMPD officers.

The individual is reportedly facing misdemeanor charges. First reports indicate he may not get a weapons charge since he was not using his sword to cause bodily harm.

The name of the suspect has not been released. There is no more information currently available.

On January 24, 2024, the City of Santa Monica released the results of their 2023 homeless count.

The homeless count results indicate that as of January 2024, Santa Monica has 926 people living in homelessness which is a 15 percent increase compared to 2022. The homeless count completed in 2023 showed 807 individuals living in homelessness.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—Starting Wednesday, May 1, the city of Beverly Hills announced starting Wednesday, May 1, the city will unveil its new website, that underwent an extensive refresh under the guidance of its Website Steering Committee which consisted of community members and Council liaisons, Councilmember John Mirisch and former Councilmember Lili Bosse.

The new website, designed by Beverly Hills’ selected vendor, CivicPlus, features improved functionality, easy navigation as well as at-a-glance information about city news and upcoming events.

In conjunction with the website launch, Beverly Hills will unveil its new customer relations program called ‘askBH’ which will serve as the primary contact service for non-emergency assistance on city services, programs and events.

This new program will make things easier for community members to get in touch with a Beverly Hills representative by phone, email, mobile app, website or via text.

“It’s imperative that we provide effective and hospitable customer service to our community and point them in the right direction when they need a question answered,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Lester Friedman. “Our new askBH team will be readily available to serve anyone needing assistance.”

During the hours of 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Fridays, the askBH customer service team can help the public navigate with recreation reservations, solid waste and commercial trash services, reporting code violations, street repairs, obtain fire permits and more. Additional information will be made available soon.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department are warning drivers to celebrate 4/20 responsibly. The Police Department notes that while recreational and medicinal use of marijuana is legal in the state of California, drivers should be cautious while on the road.

“Whether it is on 4/20 or any other day, it is unsafe and illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana,” Chief Mark G. Stainbrook said. “It’s important to make responsible choices, especially when it comes to getting behind the wheel.”

The BHPD is warning motorists that are planning to participate in 4/20 activities and consume marijuana, plan ahead, designate a sober driver, or consider staying in and ordering delivery from local establishments. Do not drive, and never ride with an impaired driver. Driving under the influence of marijuana is dangerous, illegal, and has consequences.

Studies note that THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, can slow reaction times and make it difficult for drivers to judge distances and keep a steady position in their lane. The Police Department is asking anyone who spots and impaired motorists on the road to safely pull over and contact 911.

By Trevor

MALIBU—On Tuesday, April 16, the city of Malibu announced on its website that it will be launching an extensive outreach and engagement program to gather community feedback about the future use of five community lands.

In 2016 and 2018, Malibu purchased five vacant parcels of land totaling over 61 acres to preserve the lands as community spaces instead of private developments. Prior to any development decisions, the engagement program’s goal was meaningful dialogue and to gather insights on the types of facilities the community prefers.

“This outreach program underscores our commitment to including the needs and views of all of the community,” said Mayor Steve Uhring. “By actively involving our residents and all community members, and others, we are ensuring that Malibu remains a vibrant and thriving community for generations to come.”

In February 2024, Malibu partnered with Tripepi Smith, a community engagement firm specializing in local government, to assist with the initiative. The program’s framework, developed in collaboration with the Malibu City Council, City commission members and city staff, will guide the execution of various outreach activities. The city anticipates executing the program in two phases: Phase 1 will focus on broad outreach to gather initial feedback from the community, while Phase 2 will build on the input received for more refined feedback to aid in future decision-making processes.

Malibu has launched the dedicated website, MalibuCommunityLands.org which will serve as a comprehensive resource, offering background information on the project, guidance for community participation, event calendars, a map pinpointing the community land locations, public input archives, frequently asked questions and avenues for public comments. The community can also contact via the email address: MalibuCommunityLands@MalibuCity.org.

“Through this extensive outreach program, we aim to empower our community members to actively shape the future of Malibu’s community lands,” said City Manager Steve McClary. “We are excited to cultivate and advance a vision for Malibu that ensures these lands meet the long-term needs and aspirations of the entire community.”

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on Wednesday, April 10 that the La Cienega Community Center will be temporarily closed from April 3 thru April 30.

Due to recent heavy rains and resulting water intrusion at La Cienega Park Community Center, the facility is temporarily closed through April 30.

Following the storms, staff detected odors throughout the building. To be cautious, the city of Beverly Hills is in the process of air testing to ensure satisfactory air quality. Staff is continuing to assess the level of water intrusion and any potential damage to the building.

While repairs are being performed, the La Cienega preschool program has been relocated and combined with the Coldwater Canyon preschool class. Other community programs have been moved to other facilities, as a result. The safety of our preschool students, visitors and staff is always our top priority.

“We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate the community’s patience and look forward to reopening the Center soon,” the city of Beverly Hills said in the Facebook post.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on its website on Monday, April 8 that commuters and residents who use North Santa Monica Boulevard are informed to avoid or allow ample time to travel through a two-block portion of the area as crews from the Metropolitan Water District urgently repair a leak in a major water pipeline starting at 4 a.m. on Tuesday, April 9.

Water service to residences and businesses will not be impacted by the leak or construction activities. Only one lane will be open in each direction on North Santa Monica Boulevard between Moreno Drive and Wilshire Boulevard (link to map), where Beverly Hills borders Angeles, through at least Saturday, April 13, although repairs may extend beyond that timeline.

“We will work as quickly as possible to address this issue to protect the region’s water supplies, as well as public safety,” said Shane Chapman, Metropolitan assistant general manager of operations. “We appreciate the public’s cooperation during this urgent repair.”

The leak was discovered in Metropolitan’s Santa Monica Feeder, a 24-mile pipeline that provides water to the cities of Glendale, Burbank, Los Angeles, Beverly Hills and Santa Monica. Metropolitan crews will excavate to inspect the pipeline and immediately repair the leak.

In addition to the traffic impacts, residents and businesses may notice increased noise due to construction and excavation. For updates, email communityrelations@mwdh2o.com.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, April 2, the city of Beverly Hills held its ceremony for its newest Mayor, Lester J. Friedman who was sworn in.

Friedman was elected Mayor of Beverly Hills at the City Council’s reorganization meeting on Tuesday evening. He succeeds Julian A. Gold, MD who completed his third and final term on the Beverly Hills City Council. During the same ceremony, Councilmember Lili Bosse completed her third and final term. New Councilmembers Craig A. Corman and Mary N. Wells took the oath of office.

“I am deeply grateful to once again serve our community,” said Mayor Friedman. “Maintaining the safety and security of our community is a top priority, while preparing for the excitement of the 2028 Olympics and other world events will lead to some productive conversations. The year ahead will certainly be one filled with meaningful commitments that will enhance the quality of life for everyone living in and visiting Beverly Hills.”

Mayor Friedman was first elected to the BH City Council in 2017 and served as Mayor during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020. He previously served on the Beverly Hills Traffic and Parking Commission from 2011 through 2017 and served as its Chair in 2015. Mayor Friedman is also an attorney. Sharona R. Nazarian, PsyD was named Vice Mayor by the BH City Council during the ceremony.

Vice Mayor Nazarian, who was first elected in 2022, previously served as a Beverly Hills Public Works Commissioner and was a past Chair of the Beverly Hills Human Relations Commission. The Mayor and Vice Mayor serve one-year terms and are selected by their City Council colleagues during the annual reorganization meeting.

By Trevor

WEST HOLLYWOOD—On Wednesday, April 3, the city of West Hollywood announced on its website they completed the installation of Rainbow Neon Dog as part of its Urban Art Program at the northwest pedestrian entrance to William S. Hart Park, located at 8431 De Longpre Avenue.

The city reported on its website that the Rainbow Neon Dog has reconditioned, electrically rotating neon sign in the shape of a barking dog set atop a supporting pole that raises it above street level on Sunset Boulevard in either direction. The sign measures 10 feet high, by 10 feet wide, by 3 feet deep. It was designed in 1990 by Wilson Ong for the Collar & Leash pet store formerly located at 8555 Santa Monica Boulevard.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On April 2, Jobson Marangoni De Castro, 38, pleaded guilty to stealing over $1 million in items from a luxury hotel in Beverly Hills and then traveling with the stolen goods to the state of Florida to sell.

According to a Department of Justice press release, on May 10, 2023, De Castro was brought to the hotel by an Uber driver. He was then able to enter the hotel room of two Brazilian National travel companions who were visiting the U.S. to attend a fashion event.

De Castro was able to access the victim’s room by tricking the hotel clerk on duty into giving him a[his] key.

Surveillance video footage captured at the scene revealed that the suspect initially entered the victim’s room while they were sleeping. Seeing that the room was occupied, De Castro quickly exited without notice.

He returned to the room once the victims left for dinner. The victims reported the theft upon their return to the hotel.

Prosecutors in the case contend that De Castro stole high-end suitcases containing approximately $1.8 million in jewelry, and other items including, but not limited to, a custom-made aluminum RIMOWA carry-on bag, several black Tumi suitcases, a white embroidered silk jacquard Chanel dress, along with other high-end clothing, a watch valued at nearly $90,000, jewelry, and air tags.

Reports indicate that it took De Castro multiple trips to strip the room of all of the merchandise.

The following information came directly from the DOJ press release.

“De Castro then traveled to Miami and, on May 17, 2023, messaged a buyer in Miami on Instagram. De Castro told the buyer he wanted to sell jewelry – a diamond necklace and luxury watch – but he did not have papers for them because he had found them in a box belonging to his late mother. The jewelry matched the description of that stolen from the victims in Beverly Hills a few days earlier, according to court documents. The next day, the buyer wired De Castro $50,000, for the jewelry, which De Castro brought to the buyer’s store in Miami.

The name De Castro provided to the buyer was “Jobs Marangoni,” the same name he used for his Uber account.

De Castro has been in federal custody since August 2023.

Jobson Marangoni De Castro, 38, pleaded guilty to one count of interstate transportation of stolen property, a felony that carries a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.”

The FBI and the Beverly Hills Police Department are investigating the theft. The Assistant U.S. Attorney, Alexander Gorin of the General Crimes Section is prosecuting the case.

The U.S. District Judge, Hernan D. Vera scheduled an evidentiary hearing for De Castro on April 30, to determine the extent of the loss.

A sentencing hearing is expected to be scheduled in the next few months.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department announced on their Facebook page on Tuesday, April 2, that their K-9, Koa has died. Koa died on March 28 as a result of an underlying health condition while on duty.

The BHPD indicated he served with “dedication and brought joy to all he encountered. Thank you for your service, K-9 Koa. You will be sorely missed.”

A message from @bhpdk9 stated:

“We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of K-9 Koa. In the year he served with the BHPD, K-9 Koa was a vital asset to the K-9 unit and a beacon of light and pure joy to the community members he interacted with. K-9 Koa was honored with a hero send-off. Thank you for your service, K-9 Koa! You will be greatly missed!”

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Monday, April 2, the Beverly Hills Police Department announced in a news release that April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month.

The BHPD will be actively looking for drivers throughout the month who are in violation of the state’s hands-free cell phone law.

“In today’s fast-paced life, it is common to lose focus while driving,” Chief Mark G. Stainbrook said. “Distracted Driving Awareness Month is a crucial reminder that even a moment of inattention or a quick glance at the phone can lead to serious consequences. Let’s get off our apps and keep our eyes on the road. Before starting the car, silence your phone or put it in the glove box, trunk or back seat. Anywhere you can’t reach.”

The BHPD reported that according to the 2023 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, more than 74 percent of drivers surveyed said that distracted driving because of texting was their biggest safety concern. In 2021, there were at least 140 people killed in distracted driving traffic crashes in the state. The numbers could be underreported because law enforcement officers may not always be able to tell that distraction was a factor in a crash.

Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle, even when stopped at a red light. This includes talking, texting or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine, and violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record.

Motorists are asked to pull over to a safe parking spot if they have to take a call, text or email. The BH Police Department noted other distractions can be eating, grooming, reaching for something that fell on the floor, putting on or taking off clothing, talking with passengers, or children in the back seat.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills property of music mogul Sean ‘Diddy’ Combs, 54, was raided by agents with the Department of Homeland Security on Monday, March 25. Combs who references himself as ‘Diddy,’ also had one of his properties in Miami, Florida raided on Monday as authorities looked for evidence related to a sex trafficking investigation that the musician/actor has been accused of. Law enforcement had guns drawn as they entered the property in BH and detained individuals inside the property.

Diddy’s two sons, Justin and King Combs who were at the Beverly Hills’ property at the time of the raid, were detained by authorities, but not arrested. Traffic was cut off to neighbors in the Holmby Hills region as agents completed the raid. Some neighbors not able to access their home included “Alien” director Ridley Scott.

In addition to Diddy’s BH home being raided, his home in Miami was also raided by authorities at the same time, as footage was seen on social media of a boat docking near the property on Star Island which is a secluded region in Miami where the rich and famous reside.

There were no specific details on what authorities were looking for in the warrant disclosed to the public. Diddy was not arrested or taken into custody. He was about to board a flight with his twin daughters to travel internationally for Easter break, when he was halted by authorities. The warrant came from the Southern District of New York. Diddy was captured in video obtained by TMZ pacing back and forth after news of the raids were made public.

Diddy was sued by his former girlfriend, Cassie, back in November 2023, where he was accused of abuse and sexual assault. A settlement was reached between both parties that was not disclosed. Combs denied all allegations alleged against him. Since the lawsuit brought by Cassie, the musician has faced several lawsuits in recent months from others.

In February 2024, music producer Rodney ‘Lil Rod’ Jones filed a lawsuit against Combs alleging he was forced into sex acts and asked to find sex workers for Diddy. Jones alleged that Diddy drugged him and assaulted him.

Combs is a well-known name in the music industry having found success with rapper Biggie Smalls in the early 90s. He parlayed that success into working with musicians Mary J. Blige, 112, Danity Kane, Mase and many more. He was recently honored at the 2023 Bet Awards where he earned the Lifetime Achievement Award.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills has announced new details for the New Mayor, Vice Mayor and City Council Installation Ceremony on Tuesday, April 2. The city of Beverly Hills posted on its website the event will be held at 7 p.m. at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts Beverly Hills.

Current Mayor Julian A. Gold, and councilmembers John A. Mirisch and Lili Bosse will be in attendance at the ceremony, where Lester J. Friedman will be sworn in as a the new Mayor of the city and Sharona R. Nazarian, PsyD will be sworn in as the new Vice Mayor.

Newly elected Beverly Hills City Councilmembers Craig A. Corman and Mary N. Wells will be sworn in during the ceremony. A total of 10 candidates ran for two open seats on the Beverly Hills City Council during the March 5, 2024, General Election.

The Wallis Annenberg Center is located at 9390 North Santa Monica Blvd. A reception is scheduled to take place after the ceremony. Doors will open at 6:30 p.m. and free parking will take place at the following garages: 450 N. Crescent Drive structure and the Rexford/Civic Center structure located at 450 N. Rexford Drive.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On March 15, the Beverly Hills Police Department announced on their Facebook page that a grand theft suspect had been arrested.

The BHPD reported a suspect committed a grand theft on Rodeo Drive. While walking away, authorities utilized their Real Time Watch Center technology and personnel were able to track him to where he committed another grand theft several blocks away.

“Still hot on his trail, our Virtual Patrol Officers (VPOs) informed our patrol officers that the suspect had left our City’s jurisdiction,” the BHPD stated.

An hour after the crimes were committed, officers were able to locate the suspect. The suspect tried to run away, but officers were faster and took him into custody. The name of the suspect and items stolen have not been disclosed to the public.

“Let this be a reminder: don’t commit crime in Beverly Hills; we will track you down even outside our City limits,” the BHPD said in a post on Facebook.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—Beverly Hills resident Mario Niccoló Messina has built a media business investing in rising filmmakers.  Messina, who goes by his middle name Niccoló, launched V Channels (www.vchannelsmedia.com) in 2021, and has since then financed 100 movies and 60 documentaries that are housed on his You Tube channel which has amassed over 25 million subscribers.  But it’s how the titles – which encompass action, thriller, horror and mystery genres – were selected that separates Messina’s V Channels apart from other independent studios.

Messina did not possess an entertainment background when he ventured into indie film production and distribution.  Instead, the 39-year-old comes from the technology sector of his native Italy, where he brought his expertise in data-driven algorithms into V  Channels’ project decision-making process.   Specifically, Messina applies a series of proprietary algorithms that help determine which genres and storylines consumers are looking for, and therefore which projects will be green lit for financing and production. “Genres and storylines are fed through our algorithms to ascertain audience engagement and assess their viability. The resulting data helps to ensure that each V Channels movie resonates with audiences,” says Messina.

Once a project gets the ‘go’ signal, the filmmakers are on their own to realize their vision – they get zero creative interference from Messina who prefers to remain in the business development and technology roles that have defined his career path. When films are completed, Messina first establishes an exclusive window for video on demand streaming platforms, and revenues derived from the platforms are shared equally with the filmmakers once V Channels investment is recouped.  Following the “streamers,” the films are then placed on the V Channels You Tube platform.

Most recently, V Channels licensed the horror film Stupid Games to Mometu, a new free Video On Demand service which announced the deal in early March. Filmmakers Nicolas Wendl and Dani Abraham, and writer Tanner Adams, are behind the film, which follows a group of friends who become ensnared in a deadly game – where the stakes are nothing less than their sanity and survival – after they unknowingly unleash a malevolent force.

Messina’s approach is reshaping the landscape for the independent filmmaking community – and the community has taken notice.  “Independent filmmakers see V Channels as a distinct alternative to traditional models which are not addressing their unique financing and distribution needs. By offering financing, revenue sharing, and a robust distribution network, V Channels supports budding filmmakers to bring their projects to life without shouldering financial risks,” adds Messina.

Messina is setting his future goals on financing an additional 300 features and documentaries over the next three years. “Our combination of advance data, full financing, distribution and revenue sharing has resulted in the cultivation of compelling film entertainment that audiences are embracing. We are excited about continuing on this road and helping to redefine the landscape of independent film production,” says Messina.

BEVERLY HILLS—On Monday, Mach 18, the Beverly Hills City Council provided an update regarding the city’s partnership with the non-profit organization, ‘Step Up on Second’ that supports and offers rehabilitation to those experiencing homelessness and mental health issues.

The partnership started under the direction of Beverly Hills’ Unhoused Services Ad Hoc Committee which helps place unhoused individuals into 30 permanent supportive housing units, consisting of community-based apartment units owned by independent landlords, scattered across Los Angeles County. The program allows for up to 280 nights of interim housing each year, to place individuals into motels for temporary housing, pending the availability of permanent supportive units.

Since the supportive housing program started on November 16, 2023, 14 of the 30 permanent supportive units have been occupied. Tenants who have been placed have started taking community college courses and are learning to cook and work toward independent living.

“It’s remarkable that we have housed as many people as we’ve housed in such a short period of time,” said Mayor Dr. Julian Gold. “It’s even more remarkable that we’ve sent so many people back to their families. This is only the beginning of what we are going to see with our new community public health program and I think the world will emulate us.”

Individuals who are placed are required to see a Step Up Housing Case Management staff member at least once a week to help them work toward independent living and address mental health concerns. The organization has contracts currently with the Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health (DMH) that offers additional support such as therapy, psychiatry, nursing and more.

For additional details about the program visit beverlyhills.org/homelessservices or if there is someone who is unhoused that may need assistance contact (310) 286 – BHOT (2468).

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, March 19, Public Information Officer for the Beverly Hills Police Department, Lt. Myers informed Canyon News via email that Officer Guzman of the Police Department earned an award after his participation in the Motor Officer Skills Competition on March 16.

The event was held in Bakersfield and involved 30 Motor Officers from various law enforcement agencies. Participating agencies included the Bakersfield Police Department, California Highway PatrolBakersfield Office, Daly City Police Department, San Jose Police Department, San Francisco Police Department, and the Beverly Hills Police Department.

The Motorcycle Skills Competition, designed to foster training and safety among Police Motorcycle Officers, serves as a platform for supporting organizations focused on law enforcement officers and their families via charitable donations.

Officers participated in a challenging course while benefiting from cross-departmental learning and friendly competition. The course featured intricate patterns, including replicas of the Bakersfield Police Department emblem, requiring precise maneuvering to navigate without error.

Utilizing various motorcycle models, such as the BMW 1200RT-P and Harley Davidson Police Electra Glides, participants showcased their skills. At the end of the event, accolades were awarded to top performers in both the Harley Davidson and BMW categories.

Officer Guzman of the Beverly Hills Police Department distinguished himself at the 2024 Bakersfield Police Department Motors Competition, clinching first place in the BMW Metric Division.

“His remarkable achievement amidst fierce competition underscores his dedication to training and preparation, embodying the highest standards of police motorcycle officers,” the BHPD said in a statement.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Monday, March 25, the city of Beverly Hills will be hosting the Coffee With Code event. It will take place from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. During the event, the public can meet some of the City’s Code Enforcement Officers at Euro Caffe.

“Come learn what they do and stay for a special Q & A session where you can ask questions! 427 N Cañon Dr. #111! See you there,” the city of Beverly Hills posted on its Facebook page.

The event will discuss the following:

-Benefits of Code Enforcement

-Program Goals

-Q&A Session

For those with questions contact Community Preservation at (310) 285-1119 or visit www.beverlyhills.org/cp.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, March 12, Sgt. Jeffrey Neuman of the Beverly Hills Police Department provided Canyon News an update on the Cyber Truck Accident that occurred on March 3 at the Beverly Hills Hotel.

On March 3, at approximately 11:46 p.m. the Beverly Hills Police Department responded to a traffic collision in the 9600 block of Sunset Blvd.

It was a solo vehicle collision involving a Tesla Cyber Truck that struck a retaining wall on the private property of the Beverly Hills Hotel. The vehicle was traveling westbound on Sunset Boulevard when it tried to negotiate a turn into the driveway/entrance of the Beverly Hills Hotel. The vehicle sustained major front-end damage due to the collision.

The Beverly Hills Fire Department responded to the scene to examine and treat three passengers who complained of pain-related injuries. The injured passengers were not transported for additional medical attention.

Upon investigation, it was determined that unsafe speed was a factor to the cause of the accident. The BHPD wants to remind all drivers to exercise caution and adhere to speed limits when navigating turns and entering private properties.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Saturday, March 9, the Beverly Hills Police Department disclosed via their alert system that due to an ongoing hazmat situation, vehicular and pedestrian traffic on Wilshire Boulevard between La Cienega Boulevard and San Vicente Boulevard was closed.

Traffic was closed in both directions. Hazmat personnel were on the scene. The BHPD announced at 12:22 p.m. that roads were reopened in the area to vehicles and pedestrians.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—Five eighth grade students from Beverly Vista Middle School, located at 200 S. Elm Drive, have been expelled for their involvement in the creation and online distribution of AI-generated nudes of peers. At a meeting on Wednesday, March 6, the Beverly Hills Unified School District board of education approved stipulated agreements of expulsion. The five students and their parents did not contest the punishment and no hearing was held. 

According to a message sent by district and school administrators to parents and staff, students brought the images to the attention of school officials on Wednesday, February 21, who later notified the Beverly Hills Police Department. BHPD began conducting an investigation into “the creation and dissemination by other students of artificial intelligence generated (AI) images that superimposed the faces of [Beverly Vista Middle School] students onto AI-generated nude bodies,” the message said. 16 eighth-grade students were reportedly targeted in the scandal. 

By Monday, February 26, the school’s principal, Kelly Skon, reportedly met with most students from the sixth to eighth grades to discuss a number of issues raised by the incident, the Los Angeles Times reported. Principal Skon reportedly asked students to reflect on how you use social media and “don’t be afraid to leave any situation that does not align with your values,” and to “make sure your social media accounts are private and you do not have people you do not know following your accounts.”

Superintendent of Beverly Hills School District, Dr. Michael Bregy, told NBC that the misuse of this kind of technology has occurred within a number of school districts. Schools in New Jersey and Washington state have reportedly faced similar issues with AI-generated fake nudes. 

Lawmakers in New Jersey are seeking to pass legislation to ban the material, and a bill has been introduced in Washington D.C. seeking to protect “national security against the threats posed by deepfake technology and to provide legal recourse to victims of harmful deepfakes.” 

“It’s uncharted territory and we want to ensure that this isn’t something that continues,” Dr. Bregy told NBC. In a message sent to parents Thursday evening, March 7, Dr. Bregy said, “This incident has spurred crucial discussions on the ethical use of technology, including AI, underscoring the importance of vigilant and informed engagement within digital environments. In response, our district is steadfast in its commitment to enhancing education around digital citizenship, privacy, and safety for our students, staff, and parents which was immediately reemphasized at all schools following the incident,” the Los Angeles Times reported. 

Numerous “deepfake” apps have emerged in recent years, making it easy to create sophisticated fake nude and fake pornographic content. Major social media platforms and search engines allow them to be easily searchable and shared. Women, including Grammy award-winning artist, Taylor Swift, and actress, Jenna Ortega, have been victimized in fake nude scandals since.   

No criminal charges have reportedly been brought in this incident and the BHPD investigation remains ongoing. However, no laws yet exist within California that criminalize fake photos impersonating real people. Due to the suspects being minors, the identities of the five students will remain confidential. The technology used to create the fake nudes in this particular incident has not been disclosed. 

By Lacy

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, March 5, Beverly Hills residents went to the polls to vote for new members of the Beverly Hills City Council. A total of 10 candidates were vying for 2 open seats being held by current councilmembers Mayor Julian A. Gold and Lili Bosse.

As of Wednesday, March 6, Craig Corman led all candidates with 23.73 percent of the vote (2,160). Currently in second place was Mary Wells with 19.68 percent of the vote (1,791) and in third place was Alissa Roston with 15.01 percent of the vote (1,366).

Sitting in fourth place is Myra Demeter with 12.03 percent of the vote (1,095) and Russell Stuart in fifth place with 11.64 percent of the vote (1,059).

Other candidates running included: Nooshin Meshkaty, Hamid Omrani, Tiffany Davis, Sharon Persovski and Robin Rowe. The city announced on its website that on Tuesday, April 2, the city will hold its installation ceremony for the new Mayor, Vice Mayor and Beverly Hills City Council.

The ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills. No official announcement has been made regarding the winners in Tuesday’s race.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—It was reported over the weekend that a Tesla Cybertruck suffered some damage after colliding with the curb near The Beverly Hilton Hotel on Sunday, March 3. The vehicle ran onto the road near the iconic signage for the entrance of the hotel. The vehicle sustained damage to its front-end. There were no reports of any injuries during the incident.

It was initially reported that a valet at the hotel was responsible for the collision, but that report was proven to be inaccurate. X user Greggertruck tweeted: “The truth is SO important, and I want to make sure I always share it. I received a message this morning letting me know that the crashed Cybertruck at the Beverly Hills Hotel was NOT driven by the valet. While I can’t completely verify the message received, there’s now been…”

X user J$LATT tweeted: “This is true, incident happened around 2am and I drafted up this joke of a tweet with employees of the valet and hotel. Not thinking it would blow up, we thought it would be funny to say it was valet and not our friend who just crashed his new cybertruck… BHH is not at fault!”

Elon Musk, the owner of X and Tesla posted the following message via social media on Monday, March 4:

“Cyberbeast is faster than a Porsche 911, but looks like a truck, so perhaps the valet wasn’t expecting so much acceleration.”

The Beverly Hilton Hotel is located at 9876 Wilshire Boulevard in Beverly Hills, California. The Tesla Cybertruck is valued between $57,000 to $96,000 and can travel from 0-60 mph in 2.6 seconds. It is shatter resistant and there is no paint and no chips. The “ultra-hard stainless-steel exoskeleton helps to reduce dents, damage and long-term corrosion. Repairs are simple and quick,” Tesla states on its website.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on its website that on Tuesday, April 2, the city will hold its installation ceremony for the new Mayor, Vice Mayor and Beverly Hills City Council.

The ceremony will take place at 7 p.m. at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills.

A total of 10 candidates including 2 incumbents are vying for two open seats currently held by Mayor Julian A Gold and Lili Bosse.

Candidates vying for those two seats include: Alissa Roston, Mary Wells, Sharon Persovski, Myra Demeter, Craig Corman, Nooshin Meshkaty, Hamid Omrani, Tiffany Davis, Robin Rowe and Russell Stuart.

All candidates are responsible for filing their Fair Political Practices Commission (FPPC) forms on time.  The primary election to vote for Beverly Hills City Council will be held on Tuesday, March 5.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On February 23, Los Angeles County Public Health (LACPH) posted their most recent Environmental Health Inspection results for restaurants within our coverage area and throughout Los Angeles County.

According to the LACPH website, if health hazards are found in the food service inspections, the restaurants risk being closed. Facility closures are the result of being out of compliance for more than 100 days. LACPH has lists available of all facilities that are currently closed including restaurants, food markets, and swimming pools.

Major violations and any repeat minor health factors must be corrected within 14 days.

“A Major Critical Risk Factor that is not corrected by the end of the inspection shall result in suspension of the Public Health Permit/License see Public Health Permit/License Suspension Due to an Imminent Health Hazard. The health inspector shall use the following guidelines to determine compliance dates.”

Those with minor, first-time health factors are given 14-30 days to come into compliance with the health inspector’s demands.

On the inspection sheet, there are sections that food service facilities must come into compliance with or have points deducted from their health score. A facility can score a 100 percent.

Big Mama’s and Papa’s Pizzeria located in Van Nuys scored a 100.
Others scoring 100 percent include the following:

Don Quixote, Los Angeles location
Donut Star, in Canoga Park
Chick-fil-A, in Canoga Park

Those scoring 99 percent:

Yummi Sushi, Santa Monica 

Target, Canoga Park
Burrata House Canoga Park
Fat Sal’s, 6600 Topanga Canyon Blvd, Canoga Park
Downtown Pizzeria, in Canoga Park
Dumpling Monster, Canoga Park
Liquor Mart, Canoga Park
Vallarta Supermarket #112, Canoga Park
Grocery Outlet 8230, Canoga Park
WINGSTOP #465, La Puenta
USA GASOLINE, Winnetka
COSTCO Deli, Woodland Hills
SBARRO, Los Angeles

Those Scoring 98 Percent:

Erewhon Market – Juice Bar, Beverly Hills
Estrellita Market, Los Angeles
Target-Starbucks, Canoga Park
Topanga Valu Gas, Canoga Park
Goop Kitchen, North Hollywood
Wingstop, North Hollywood
Man Eating Plant / Katsu Sando, Canoga Park
Lucky 7 Liquors, Reseda
See’s Candies, Reseda
Hashemayars Service & Oil, Winnetka 
FOOD 4 LESS #307, Bell Gardens
Little Ceasar’s #5775, La Puenta
Pizza Hut #30835, La Puenta
Cave Mezza Grill, Woodland Hills

Those scoring 97 percent.

Starbucks, Santa Monica
Gardena Liquor Mart, Gardena
B. W. Hotel LLC, Beverly Hills
CUT, Beverly Hills
Joey Restaurant, Woodland Hills

Jaybirds, Canoga Park
Basil’s Deli and Cafe, Canoga Park
Wendy’s #4156, Valencia
Sprouts Farmer’s Market (MEAT), Burbank
Shake Shack, Burbank
Vallarta Supermarket, Whittier

Those earning a health score of 96:

Great White, West Hollywood
Mendocino Farms, Studio City
India’s Cay Pit, North Hollywood
Kona Ice of Arcadia, North Hils
Bakery, North Hollywood
Yum Yum Donuts Franchise #9026, La Puenta
Sprouts Farmer’s Market, Burbank
Red Palace #2, Artesia
Thailand Restaurant, Reseda
Seafood City Supermarket, Cerritos

Those scoring a 95:
Superior Super Warehouse Market, North Hollywood
Champ’s Sports Pub, Burbank
Tortilleria, North Hollywood
American Gas Co., Newhall
Meat/Seafood, Torrance
The Corner Beef Noodle House, El Monte
7-ELEVEN Store 39090C, Newhall
Bionicos Jugos Zapopan Inc., La Puenta 
Market Grill, Torrance
Crave Cafe, Studio City
Pinkberry, Studio City

Those scoring a health score of 94:

B. W. Hotel LLC Pool Bar, Beverly Hills
Georgio’s Pizza, Torrance
G and D Burgers, La Puenta
El Sombrero, El Monte
Pan Tang Restaurant, Tujunga 

Those scoring a health score of 93:

El Cholo, Santa Monica
Pandaria Los Reyes, Los Angeles

A health score of 92:

Pablo Ice Cream, Irwindale

A health score of 91:

Sheng Hui Dim Sum, West Covina 
Pokitomik A & M, Canoga Park
Tai Pan Chinese Fast Food, El Monte

A Health Score of 90:

B.W. Hotel LLC Banquet Kitchen, Beverly Hills
Bibibop Asian Grill, Santa Monica

A Health Score of 83:

Hercules Burgers, Los Angeles

There are more inspection scores on the Department of Public Health’s website with suggestions of what would need to be done to bring the score up higher including hygiene, keeping hands and surfaces clean, and more.

Cross-contamination is when food and utensils from one food item, say on a buffet, are found in the neighboring food choices. Self-serve options have lessened, those that are still using a buffet style often have servers so multiple people are not handling the serving utensils. There is now a barrier of some sort of glass or plexiglass between the server and the food, and between the customer and the food to lessen the chance of spreading germs through the hands, or sneezing, and coughing on the food.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on its website that a special ribbon cutting ceremony will take place on Wednesday, February 28 to celebrate the completion of its Burton Way Green Street and Water Efficient Landscape Project. The event will be held at 11 a.m. at the mini park located on the southeast corner of Burton Way and Rexford Drive.

“Burton Way is the first of many Green Streets our City will have as we move toward adopting a more environmentally conscious infrastructure. This is critical for our water conservation efforts and our broader City sustainability goals,” said Mayor Dr. Julian Gold.

The project marks Beverly Hills’ first Green Street that will prevent polluted urban runoff from reaching Santa Monica Bay and will serve as the city’s water efficient garden model.  This new Burton Way Median will save approximately five million gallons of water annually.

The project incorporates infiltration swales, native water efficient plants, and a 1-million-gallon underground reservoir that will store treated urban runoff to irrigate the new landscape. The design layout features over 16 specific plant species arranged to highlight Beverly Hills’ exceptional public art pieces.

The project received approximately $6.7 million from grant funding from Measure W- Safe Clean Water Program and the Department of Water Resources (DWR).

Additional details about the project can be found at beverlyhills.org/burtonway. The public is invited to attend. Free parking is available at the Rexford Parking Garage located at 450 N Rexford Dr.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, February 20, President Joe Biden arrived in California to expound upon the fundraising efforts of the Biden-Harris Campaign. Haim Saban of Saban Capital LLC hosted the fundraising event at his Beverly Hills home.  He is the owner of Saban Films and co-owner of Celestial Tiger Entertainment. The co-host of the President’s fundraising efforts was entertainment executive, Casey Wasserman.

Reports indicate that both Haim Saban and Casey Wasserman tested positive for COVID following the fundraising event.

Reports also indicate that Biden’s numbers in the polls have reached an all-time low. Biden’s fundraising team had him in a heavily Democratic area of California where wealthy donors are likely to support him. California, at one time, was considered a Republican state and still has a large core of Republican supporters.

A spokesperson for the Biden campaign told the New York Times that more than 422,000 donors contributed funds to the Biden-Harris campaign with 97 percent being donations less than $200 each.

Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) came back to California to assist Biden in his campaign efforts. Pelosi has been quoted multiple times defending Biden’s cognitive abilities which have played center stage in recent events because of instances of having difficulty finishing a statement, needing assistance exiting the stage he’s speaking on, sometimes from world leaders, fumbling, and falling.  None of which is undue criticism of the President.  It was all captured on film.

On February 13, in a CNN interview, Anderson Cooper asked Nancy Pelosi about possible age concerns when it came to Biden as a Presidential nominee.

“So, I think that, again, age is an objective fact. As I say, it’s all relative. He’s younger than I am, so what do I have to say about his age? But he is, again, knowledgeable, wise,” Pelosi stated. Biden turned 81 on November 20. Nancy Pelosi will be 84 in March.

Multiple media sources have been accused of ageism after repeatedly calling attention to his misspeaks, what appears to be bouts of confusion, blank stares, and fumbling. Some are more blatant like some on talk radio who call the President of the United States (POTUS) a “dementia patient.”

After the fundraising efforts in southern California, Biden and Pelosi were captured on film walking arm and arm to the plane. Though Pelosi is the elder of the two, multiple reporters indicated that it appeared that Pelosi was helping Biden to the plane.

On Tuesday, January 30, Biden spoke to reporters on the White House lawn on the way out to a fundraising trip to Florida. Reporters questioned Biden about his immigration efforts.

“I’ve done all I can do. Just give me the power. I’ve asked since the very day I got into office.”

In December 2023, Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson wrote a letter to President Biden stating, “Immediately take executive actions available to you under existing immigration laws to stem the record tide of illegal immigration.”

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, February 20, the City of Beverly Hills posted a notification on their website inviting residents to participate in a survey on the reopening of the El Rodeo Elementary School to better serve the community in their early childhood education program.

According to their website, the Beverly Hills Community Services Department currently has three year-round preschool programs in the area for children three to five years of age. This is a program designed to help youngsters to learn the basics such as numbers, letters, shapes, colors, and participate in various art, music, and science activities. It is an effort of the City of Beverly Hills to better prepare the youngsters in the area to transition into kindergarten.

The current locations that are open are Coldwater Park, La Cienega Park, Roxbury Park, and two classes at Hawthorne Elementary School. To qualify to enter the program, children must be at least three years of age and completely toilet trained.

Each Preschool location will have a director-head teacher on site, a teacher and a teacher’s assistant. All teachers are required to have a background in early education and meet all California State Licensing requirements.

All preschool campuses will offer their classes Monday through Friday 9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Registration costs are approximately $10, $759 annually which may be split into quarterly payments.

There is a waiting list. With that comes a $25 non-refundable waiting list fee. The children may be placed on the waiting list ahead of time. Toddlers who are 18-months old and older may be placed on the waiting list. A birth certificate is required. Preference does go to Beverly Hills residents first. Application requirements state that, “Nonresidents will be placed on a waitlist for preschool locations at park sites only. P.O. Box and business addresses do not qualify as proof of residency.

Those interested are encouraged to visit the City of Beverly Hills website and fill out the survey. All applications may be found online or feel free to call 310-285-6810 for more information.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—Lt. Elisabeth Albanese of the BHPD indicated in an email to the Canyon News on Wednesday, February 14 that authorities are currently investigating reports of political sign thefts.

At least one theft suspect has been identified, at the present time. Investigators are following up on more leads to identify additional suspects. The individual arrested could face misdemeanor theft charges. All complaints will be investigated and at the conclusion of the investigations, presented to the Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office for criminal filing consideration.

Since these investigations are ongoing, the names of any victims or suspects are not being released to the public.

The Beverly Hills Police Department is reminding community members that the taking or destruction of lawfully displayed political signs can be a criminal offense.

“The Police Department takes these matters seriously and investigates reports of theft and vandalism,” the BHPD said in a statement.

“At this time in the investigation we don’t have reason to believe the suspect and victim know each other,” said Lt. Albanese in a statement to Canyon News via email.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills disclosed information on its website that individual who own a home and it is your principal place of residence on January 1, you may apply for an exemption of $7,000 from your assessed value. New property owners will automatically receive a Homeowners’ Property Tax Exemption Claim Form (BOE-266/ASSR-515).

Homeowners’ Exemptions may also apply to a supplemental assessment if the prior owner did not claim the exemption. Further instructions are included with the claim form which is available by clicking on the “Forms” tab.

Individuals that are eligible and would like to apply for the exemption, can download, complete, sign, and return form BOE-266/ASSR-515 claim form by mail to the office address below:

Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office
500 W. Temple St. Room 227
Los Angeles, CA 90012

For the security of one’s data the Los Angeles County Assessor’s Office does not accept electronically transmitted documents with sensitive personal information. Follow the instructions on the form and complete the required information.

For more details or additional help use the Contact Form. One of the Teams will provide you additional instructions via email or can confirm receipt of a previously mailed claim.

Homeowners’ Exemption versus Homestead Exemptions

Homeowners’ Exemption is a statutory tax provision, which provides a homeowner a $7,000 reduction off the taxable value on their primary residence. With an approximate 1 percent property tax rate, the exemption provides roughly a $70 annual saving off your property taxes.

Homestead Exemption is a civil code provision, which may protect part of the homes equity from creditors. It has no application in property assessment or taxation. For more details on automatic and declaring a Homestead Exemption visit Department of Consumer & Business Affairs’ website on Homestead Protection.

For more information on filing visit the Los Angeles County Registrar Recorder’s Homestead Exemption page for forms and filing requirements. They can also be reached at 1 (800) 201-8999. The Registrar Recorder’s Office is the authorized county agency to record deeds and Declarations of Homestead.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Saturday, February 10, the Beverly Hills Police Department released drone footage of a burglar falling into a pool while attempting to escape the scene. The incident occurred on Saturday, January 6.

The burglar, identified as 36-year-old David Verdun, broke into a home in Beverly Hills, ABC 7 reported. While attempting to flee the scene, Verdun climbed out of a window of the home and tried using a ladder to climb over the barrier wall. Verdun fell off the ladder and into the home’s pool. 

Prior to the incident, the home’s security system alerted BHPD of the break-in. BHPD sent a drone to survey the property and caught the incident on camera. 

Upon getting out of the pool, Verdun reportedly tried to hide in the backyard, but police found him, and he was arrested.

No further detail has been disclosed about the incident or what Verdun was attempting to steal.

By Lacy

BEVERLY HILLS—Vanity Fair will be returning to Beverly Hills for its post Academy Awards Party on the 400 block of North Crescent Drive, adjacent to Beverly Hills City Hall, on the evening of Sunday, March 10.

South Santa Monica Boulevard, the 400 block of the street will be closed starting Monday, February 26 at 10 p.m. to Thursday, March 14, reopening by 10 p.m.

All businesses on North Crescent Drive are accessible during the closure. Motorists are asked to use alternates routes. Access remains open to local parking garages.

On the day of the Vanity Fair post-Oscars bash beginning at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 10 to 2 a.m. Monday, March 11, the following roads surrounding the North Crescent closure will be impacted. Motorists are encouraged to use alternate routes during that time.

-North Cañon Drive between North and South Santa Monica Boulevard will be closed

-Eastbound lanes on South Santa Monica Boulevard starting at Civic Center will be impacted, with lanes closed from Rexford Drive to North Cañon Drive

-Detours will be in place routing traffic North and South on Rexford Drive

-North Santa Monica Boulevard Westbound lane closures will be in place from Rodeo Drive to Rexford Drive

For more details call the City’s Hotline: Monday – Friday 7:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m. (310) 285-2408.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills posted on its website on February 7 that the 39th Annual Los Angeles Marathon “Stadium to the Stars,” presented by ASICS, will take place Sunday, March 17. Athletes from all 50 states and more than 67 countries will race through the streets of Beverly Hills for miles 16 and 17 before ending at the Avenue of the Stars in Century City.

Major road closures and parking restrictions on the day of the event, March 17 from 5 a.m. to 1 p.m. and include:

-Doheny Dr. closed from North Santa Monica Blvd. to Burton Way

-Burton Way closed from Doheny Dr. to South Santa Monica Blvd.

-South Santa Monica Blvd. closed from Rexford Dr. to Rodeo Dr.

-Rodeo Dr. closed from South Santa Monica Blvd. to Wilshire Blvd.

-Wilshire Blvd. closed from Rodeo Dr. to South Santa Monica Blvd.

-South Santa Monica Blvd. closed from Wilshire Blvd. to Moreno Dr.

There will be a detour in effect on the western border of Beverly Hills at Wilshire Boulevard and North Santa Monica Boulevard, as well as at Moreno Drive and South Santa Monica Boulevard until 6 p.m. Access to all local businesses will be maintained.

The Beverly Hills Police Department and message boards will direct vehicles around the marathon route. Wider regional closures for the route will be in effect from as early as 3 a.m. until 6 p.m.

On the day of the marathon, from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m., any questions regarding street closures in the region can be directed to the Beverly Hills Hotline by dialing (310) 550-4680.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department announced in a news release on February 6 that as Super Bowl LVIII approaches, fans need to be aware that impaired driving is dangerous and ensure to have a “Go Safely” game plan and choose a sober way home.

On Super Bowl LVIII Sunday, February 11, the BHPD will have additional officers on patrol looking for drivers suspected of being under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.

“Let’s make sure Super Bowl Sunday is remembered for great plays on the field, not for unnecessary risks on the road,” said Chief Mark G. Stainbrook. “Before you grab a drink, plan ahead for a sober designated driver. Choosing a safer way to go is a win-win for everyone.”

The Beverly Hills Police Department is reminding the public that alcohol, marijuana, prescription medications, and over-the-counter drugs may impair an individual’s ability to drive safely. Motorists are advised to do research and understand how certain drugs can impact their ability to drive.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Thursday, February 1, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced in a news release that over 200 cases have been filed to fight against organized retail theft and the task forces are comprised of regional law enforcement agencies and the District Attorney’s Office partnering together to prosecute these crimes.

“Organized retail theft stole the feeling of safety and security from Angelino’s and business owners alike last year,” said LAPD Chief Michel Moore. “This regional organized retail theft task force has restored much of this, although, there is work still to be done. I am proud of the hard work and dedication to public safety of those not only from the Los Angeles Police Department, but our partnering agencies as well. As public servants, we cannot work in silos; we cannot work alone. Public safety belongs to all of us.”

“The Sheriff’s Organized Retail Crimes Task Force in collaboration with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office and our partner law enforcement agencies are continuing to work tirelessly to tackle these brazen smash-and-grabs that are having a significant impact on our business communities,” said LASD Major Crimes Bureau Acting Captain Rob Peacock. “Since inception of our task force, we have arrested 438 suspects related to retail theft and 309 cases have been successfully filed. We are not only focused on the individuals responsible for the thefts, but those that are in the criminal chain—the getaway drivers, those that harbor them, and those that sell the stolen merchandise. These individuals need to understand that there will be consequences—we will use all our resources to identify, pursue, and arrest these suspects.”

From January 1, 2023, to December 31, 2023, the District Attorney’s Office filed at least 200 cases involving adult and juvenile cases, the majority involving multiple defendants, under PC 490.4. This penal code section makes it a felony for an organized group of two or more persons to steal goods from a merchant with the intent for resale. This applies to online merchants and physical stores. Individuals who have partaken in such thefts are being prosecuted, as the thefts have caused large revenue losses for the businesses.

There are some cases pending, sentences can range from probation to state prison, and can include charges such as: organized retail theft, grand theft, robbery, second-degree robbery, conspiracy, and receiving stolen property.

Some of the cases filed included stores that have been targeted like: 99 Cent Store, American Eagle, Bed Bath and Beyond, CVS, Kevin Jewelers, Kohls, Macy’s, Marshall’s, Nike, Nordstrom, Nordstrom Rack, Old Navy, Rite Aid, Ross, Saks Fifth Avenue, Sam’s Club, Sephora, Target, Ulta, Victoria’s Secret, WSS, and numerous small businesses.

“WSS acknowledges and supports the vital efforts of the Organized Retail Theft Task Force and the District Attorney’s Office in combating organized retail theft, which detrimentally affects neighborhood security and local businesses. We remain committed to collaborating with law enforcement to deter and prosecute these crimes,” Blanca Gonzalez, senior vice president and general manager, Warehouse Shoe Sale.

In addition to prosecuting these cases, law enforcement worked with task force partners to recover millions of dollars in stolen goods which have been returned to retailers by law enforcement. Over $188,000 in merchandise has been returned to Saks Fifth Avenue in Beverly Hills, $250,000 in recovered goods has been returned to Kevin Jewelers, and hundreds of thousands of dollars has been returned to Target and CVS.

Anyone with details on these types of crimes that have occurred in Los Angeles County can call the LAPD Organized Retail Theft Task Force contact, Lt. Michael McComas at 818-374-9420 or email orc@lapd.online, or the LASO Organized Retail Crime Task Force contact, Lt. Derek White at 562-946-7270 or email orctf@lasd.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS/TOPANGA CANYON—On February 1, the Los Angeles Police Department announced the arrest of a flash robbery suspect.

The LAPD reported on January 31, 2024, the ORCTF served a search and arrest warrant in Lancaster in connection to a suspect, identified by Glendale Police Department detectives, who was involved in the Topanga Nordstrom flash-robbery that transpired on August 12, 2023. During the search of the location, an unregistered handgun, an extended magazine, ammunition, and approximately $4,500 was recovered.

The Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCTF) was established to combat the flash-robberies impacting various businesses around the region. The task force is a partnership consisting of detectives from the Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Burbank, Torrance, and Glendale Police Departments.

The suspect was identified as Travelle Hamblet, 28, of Lancaster. He was arrested and booked at Van Nuys Jail for 211 PC – Robbery, Booking No. 6751803.

Anyone with details is asked to call ORCTF Lieutenant Michael McComas, 818-374-9420, or email ORC@lapd.online. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS— On Thursday, January 1, Beverly Hills Police Department arrested an armed suspect, Joseph Leonardi, 41, at the Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills hotel on Wilshire Boulevard. Leonardi was booked and taken into custody on charges of “felon in possession of a firearm” and “negligent discharge of a firearm,” according to a press release by Lieutenant Andrew Myers.

At around 9:39 a.m., BHPD responded to 850 Wilshire Boulevard, for a call from hotel staff requesting a welfare check on a male guest – Leonardi – staying at the hotel who they believed was armed. Prior to officers arriving, hotel security allegedly knocked on Leonardi’s door and heard, “I’m going to shoot through the door!,” Lieutenant Myers said.  

BHPD utilized a drone and observed the suspect on his room balcony with a gun in hand. Resources began to arrive on scene – including SWAT personnel, Crisis Negotiation (CNT) personnel, detectives, and mutual aid resources – when BHPD officers requested Leonardi to exit his room unarmed. He complied and Leonardi was safely taken into custody.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Leonardi, a resident of Woodland Hills, is a convicted felon and had fired several rounds inside the hotel room. Details of the firearm were not disclosed and no injuries were reported. 

This is an ongoing investigation.

By Lacy

BEVERLY HILLS—On January 29, Tracey Wilen-Daugenti at Friends of Library bookstore announced their new reading initiative, waiting to unfold. The idea is whether you’re celebrating Valentines Day, The Lunar New Year, or Black History month, to spend it falling in love with reading again.

The following commentary came directly from Tracey:

“Discover Love Unfolding: Blind Date with a Book at the Friends of the Beverly Hills Friends Bookstore!

Escape the ordinary and let your next literary love story begin with the Friends of the Beverly Hills Library Bookstore’s enchanting twist to Valentine’s Day – Blind Date with a Book! Journey into the world of mystery as you explore a curated selection of concealed books, each holding the potential for a captivating tale. It’s like speed dating for book lovers, where every book is a chance for a perfect match.

Not every book is a perfect match? No worries! Pass it off to a friend and try again for a match made in book heaven. Visit the Beverly Hills Library Bookstore at 444 N. Rexford Drive, Library Lobby to embark on a literary adventure like no other. Discover love unfolding within the pages of a book – your next great literary love affair awaits!

Get ready to soar into the Lunar New Year of the Dragon. Join the festivities with Friends of the Library bookstore as we celebrate with a feast of newly donated Asian Cookbooks and feature the captivating works of top-selling Asian authors. Let the flavors of culture and literature come together in a vibrant celebration.”

Friends of the Library invite you to a special Valentine’s Day edition of their Book Discussion Group on February 14 at 10:15 a.m. in the Library Auditorium located at
444 N. Rexford Drive in Beverly Hills. Come help us celebrate the day of love while engaging in discussion on our book of the month.

The Book of the Month is, “The Girl with the Louding Voice” by Abi Dare.

This event, facilitated by the wonderful Judith Palarz promises to be a heartwarming literary experience. There is a $5.00 donation required for non-members and Free admission for members.

For more information please call (310) 288-2244

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, January 22, the 9th Circut Judge Milan Smith ruled in favor of the plaintiffs regarding the raid on safety deposit boxes at U.S. Private Vaults located at 9182 W. Olympic Boulevard in Beverly Hills.

The plaintiff’s attorney, Rob Johnson from the local non-profit, the Institute for Justice made the following statement:

“Today’s opinion draws a line in the sand. If this had come out any other way, the government could have exported this raid as a model across the country. No, the government is on notice. Its actions violated the Fourth Amendment.”

Federal agents broke into some 700 vaults and had drug-sniffing dogs search the contents, and reportedly seized some of the money.

In his ruling, Judge Smith called the incident, “particularly troubling.” The warrant issued for the search and seizure of the vaults would not allow FBI agents to search the vaults and confiscate the contents.

“If there remained any doubt regarding whether the government conducted a criminal search or seizure, that doubt is put to rest by the fact the government has already used some of the information from inside the boxes to obtain additional warrants to further its investigation and begin new ones,” Judge Smith stated.

The Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution protects its citizens from unreasonable searches and seizures by the U.S. government.

The agents entrusted with the warrant would have been required to follow protocol and take the vaults into custody. Once the vaults of the innocent were searched, their contents would have been returned to the rightful owners once they cleared security.

In Tuesday’s hearing, all records found in the raid were ordered destroyed including copies used for the FBI’s investigation.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on its website that applications are now being accepted for the Community Assistance Grant Fund until Thursday, February 29 at 5 p.m.

Maintaining a social service safety net is a public service policy stated in the Beverly Hills’ General Plan. The city of Beverly Hills allocates General Fund dollars to Community Assistance Grant Funding (CAGF) which is administered by the Human Services Division.

Agencies funded through CAGF provide social services the city does not provide directly to the most vulnerable members of the community including homeless individuals, active and frail elderly, disabled and low-means residents.

By funding a safety net, Beverly Hills establishes a continuum of care that improves coordination across providers, increases access and availability of services to community members and supports the quality of life in the region.

Evaluation Criteria

Applicants will be considered based on the following criteria:

-Organization provides a unique service that addresses an unmet need of the community and does not duplicate other providers or programs.

-Organization does not rely solely on community assistance funding to remain viable and the services would cost more to the City if the City provided them directly.

-Organization provides services that support the City’s commitment to the provision of a social service safety net that addresses the health and welfare of community members.

-Organization provides regional services that enable the City to meet its regional obligation to help ameliorate social issues.

For 2024, Beverly Hills will be accepting applications for cultural grants. These applications must still meet the above criteria one and two, but they also must be existing Beverly Hills organizations that have demonstrated a history of exemplary cultural opportunities which respond to community needs.

Application Review and Awards for Funding

Proposals are reviewed by the Human Services Division and two commissions. (1) The Charitable Solicitations Commission evaluates each applicant’s finances. (2) The Human Relations Commission evaluates proposed programs and services. Reports from the Human Services Division and the two commissions then inform funding recommendations to City Council. City Council considers this information and determines final funding allocations.

Application Elements

Submission of the following documents is required:

1) Completed CAGF application,
2) Documentation of 501c.3 status or proof of 501c.3 status through partnership,
3) Copy of most recent Form 990 – Return of Organization Exempt from Income Tax,
4) Copies of any current Charitable Solicitations Permits that have been obtained from the City of Beverly Hills.

The annual CAGF funding process begins with a request for proposals due in Q1 of the calendar year. Applications are then processed, evaluated and recommended for funding by the parties listed above. The funding cycle covers July 1 through June 30 of each fiscal year.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On January 22, the Beverly Hills City Council announced the results of a forum that took place on January 11. Reports indicate that all the 10 candidates, nine Democrats, and one Republican running for a position on the city council were present. Each prospective candidate had the opportunity to share their vision for Beverly Hills.

The forum was divided into two panels with each panelist given the opportunity to give an opening statement. The first panel included Alissa Roston, Tiffany Davis, Craig Corman, Nooshin Mesha Katy, and Mary Wells.

The second panel included Robin Rowe, and Myra Demeter.

Chairman of the Board, David Mirharooni and Board then asked questions of the candidates following the opening remarks.

Craig Corman spoke on the certification of the housing element relying only on commercial developments. Development, affordable housing, zoning, and public safety were among the other topics brought up for discussion.

Myra Demeter spoke out on the increase in violence following the recent Israeli attacks.

“Our city is under attack. I feel I am doing what I can, and I would like everybody else here to use their voice or to do what they can to fight to fight antisemitism.”

District Attorney George Gascon mentioned that the recent increase in patrol “could make a local difference.”

The following information came directly from the BH City Council webpage.

“The citizens of Beverly Hills elect five City Councilmembers to serve four-year terms. From within their membership, the Council then appoints a mayor and vice mayor, with both positions rotating each year. The mayor acts as the presiding officer at meetings and the Council’s ceremonial representative at public events.

Collectively, the City Council is responsible for establishing policies, adopting an annual budget, enacting local laws, and providing vision and goals to the city manager.”

The city council meets at the Beverly Hills City Council, Rm. 400 located at 455 Rexford Drive in Beverly Hills.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—Squatters have been having drunken, lewd parties at some of the vacant mansions out in the Hollywood Crest neighborhood just a couple houses away from the Lebron James estate. Distressed neighbors had reportedly begun reporting the nuisance October 2023. In a January 19 Daily Mail exclusive some details were revealed on who was present at these parties.

Police arriving at the scene of these massive parties indicated that they were there with permission from the landowners, tenants in fact. The tale went on to include that the price of the never-ending party was $25,000. The landowners denied any such agreement.

It was already at least three months of perturbed neighbors disgusted with the number of drugs, trash, alcohol, noise and people before the extent of the disturbances came to light.

Morgan Garguilo, 34, was reportedly convicted of an assault and battery charge for beating his wife. Reports indicate that Garguilo was granted probation on December 29, 2023, for the assault charge.

It is not clear if this happened at one of the mansions the partygoers were squatting at or if it was in another location. No information was readily available regarding this case on the LASD website or the inmate locator, which could indicate either that the files were sealed or that Garguilo was never booked into jail.

There was a legal report that Garguilo along with Ruben “Avi” Avinadav, 30, have permanent restraining orders against them from the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) for their involvement in a student loan fraud scheme.

The Daily Mail indicated that Avi may have been one of the party planners in the group. Veronica Michelle Monger and Martin Gerardo Vincent, 47, were also involved.

Some of the other homeowners that live in the vicinity of the squatters’ parties include “The Family Guy” creator, Seth McFarlane, Producer, Steve Levins, Jeff Bezos, Steve Wynn, Ron Burkle, John Legend, and his wife, Chrissy Teigen.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On Thursday, January 18, the Los Angeles Times reported that Beverly Hills authorities are appealing Judge Kim’s December 21, 2023 decision to place a moratorium on building permits other than new residential developments due to the reported failure of city leaders to provide evidence of a plan for affordable housing.

Judge Kim noted in his ruling that Beverly Hills is relying on medical office buildings and car dealerships being converted into affordable housing despite Beverly Hills’ admission that this transition is unlikely, the Los Angeles Times reported.

Kim is allowing some permits and relayed that doing so places cities at risk of penalties for not fulfilling requirements by California law.

Real estate agents indicate that population growth in Beverly Hills stagnated, and potentially declined.

According to the World Population Review, the current population in Beverly Hills is 29,748. In 2021, the population was 31,900. In 2022, 31,200, and in 2023, 31,400 people resided in the region.

Californians for Homeownership is a non–profit organization that filed lawsuits against ten California cities that failed to meet state housing planning obligations including, Beverly Hills, Bradbury, Claremont, Fullerton, La Habra Heights, La Mirada, Laguna Hills, Manhattan Beach, South Pasadena, and Vernon.

“We have filed lawsuits against ten Southern California cities for violating state laws that require cities to plan for the development of housing. The litigation aims to enforce the requirements of California’s RHNA (Regional Housing Needs Allocation) and housing element laws. Under the RHNA system, the state and local governments work together to identify regional housing needs and distribute them among a region’s cities and counties. Each city and county must then develop a housing element, a component of the city’s general plan that identifies sites available for future housing development sufficient to meet the city’s RHNA allocation.

If the city cannot identify adequate sites, it must change its zoning to allow additional housing development. Our lawsuits against Manhattan Beach and Beverly Hills focus on problems with the cities’ adopted housing elements. State law requires housing elements to identify sites that are likely to be developed into housing over an eight-year planning period by 2029,” reads a statement from the California for Homeowners website.

The Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) is a process under California state law that allows cities and unincorporated areas in the counties to plan and prepare to accommodate projected population growth.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On January 17, the Los Angeles Police Department announced they are investigating a carjacking of a food delivery truck near Beverly Hills on January 15, at approximately 9:50 p.m., at the corner of Plymouth Avenue and 10th Street.

According to police, the victim, who was driving a 2013 white Hyundai Sonata was the driver/delivery man for a food service company. He disclosed to police that he felt like he was being followed after picking up an order for delivery. The vehicle was described as a black, newer model SUV. The driver drove in front of the victim’s vehicle and stopped blocking him so he could not pass. Four suspects were inside the black SUV.

Two suspects were described as Hispanic males between the ages of 25-30 years old. They exited the SUV, and approached the victim at gunpoint, forcing him out of the car, and onto the ground. The suspects took the victim’s wallet and keys and drove away. There is no description of the third and fourth suspects as they stayed in the SUV leaving to follow the other two suspects in the victim’s car.

Anyone with information or who has details about the victim’s 2013 white Hyundai Sonata is asked to contact LAPD Wilshire Robbery Detective, A. Aguayo, at (213) 922-8215. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).

Anyone wanting to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org. Tipsters can download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On Friday, January 19, Lt. Andrew Meyers, the Public Information Officer for the Beverly Hills Police Department noted in an email to Canyon News that a suspect was arrested in connection to an armed robbery that occurred in June 2023.

The BHPD indicated that on Tuesday, June 6, 2023, at approximately 6:39 p.m., the BHPD responded to an armed robbery that occurred in the 200 block of South Hamilton Drive.

The victim arrived home and was inside the apartment building as the suspect held the elevator door. The victim turned around and observed the suspect pointing a black semi-automatic handgun at him. The suspect demanded the victim’s “chain” [necklace] and watch. During the robbery, the suspect pulled the trigger twice; no rounds were fired. The suspect took the victim’s property and fled the location.

Through video from inside the apartment building, the suspect was spotted grabbing a package in the lobby area just before the robbery. BHPD Senior Forensic Specialists were able to process the package, where a fingerprint was recovered and verified, and the suspect was identified. A Ramey arrest warrant was issued for Randy Miller, 29.

In addition to the arrest warrant already granted for Miller’s arrest, a search warrant was also granted for Miller’s residence and vehicle(s).

On January 18, Beverly Hills Police Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team, with the support of Detective personnel, successfully served the warrants, taking the suspect safely into custody. Evidence from the crime was recovered in addition to two stolen vehicles.

Miller is a resident of Los Angeles and was booked on the following charges: PC 664-187 – Attempt Murder, PC 211 – Robbery, and PC 1551 – Fugitive from Justice. He is in custody at the BHPD Jail and is being held without bail. Miller is due in court on Monday, January 22, 2024, at the LAX Superior Court. Miller is also a wanted person out of Colorado for robbery; his bail is $100,000.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills will celebrate Earth Day on Sunday, April 28 at the Farmer’s Market. This will be the 21st year of the Annual Earth Day event. The city indicated on its website that the theme for 2024 is “planet vs. plastic.”

The Public Works department will have a booth with information about Beverly Hills sustainability efforts, vendor and organizations booths, free compost giveaway, and free shredding services for the community take part of on that day.

Earth Day Celebration Events:

Earth Day Celebration at Farmer’s Market, free shredding, e-waste booth and compost give away on April 28, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Events are open to all community members.

When it comes to shredding, community members will be able to shred old documents safely, securely and pick up some compost for FREE.

Participants are expected to follow these rules for everyone’s safety:

• Noncompliance with these instructions results in non-participation.
• Please remain in vehicle at all times, and wait for instructions from staff.
• Drop off only.
• 50 pound limit per person.
• Staff will not open vehicle door or enter vehicle cabin.
• First come first serve.
• Stage parking line will be on Burton way in front of courthouse and the corner of Civic Center Dr. Exit through the alley on Foothill Rd

For inquiries regarding Earth Day email earthday@beverlyhills.org or contact Public Works Staff at 310-285-2467.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—Paula Neri, the Media Relations Coordinator for the Beverly Hills Police Department Lieutenant Reginald Evans will no longer serve in his current position, with Lieutenant Andrew Myers becoming the new Executive Officer and Public Information Officer (PIO) for the BHPD. He was thanked for his leadership and service during 2023.

Lt. Myers will oversee Media Relations, the Community Relations Unit, the Professional Standards Unit, the Reserve Unit, and the Disaster Communication System.

During his tenure, Lt. Myers served as a Patrol Officer, Field Training Officer, and worked in an undercover capacity. He was a member of SWAT for 13 years and has been an active member of the Honor Guard and Peer Support Team since the inception of both units.

Lt. Myers built and managed the BHPD Instagram profile from 2015 to 2020, building a strong base of over 40,000 followers. Before his appointment as Executive Officer, he was the Administrative Services Lieutenant, managing recruitment, hiring, training, policies & procedures, and special projects.

His academic achievements in Criminal Justice and Sociology, along with his leadership roles, in SWAT and as the Administrative Services Lieutenant, make him qualified for his new position.

“Please join us in welcoming Lt. Myers to his new role. We look forward to a year of continued excellence and community engagement under his leadership,” said Neri in a statement.

The public is advised to continue to follow the BHPD online to stay informed.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Friday, January 12, the LAPD announced that they arrested several suspect connected to a series of burglaries that have transpired in the region. The LAPD reported in December 2023, the West Los Angeles Division, in collaboration with Beverly Hills Police Department and Glendale Police Department, identified and arrested 13 suspects who have been part of an organized burglary series affecting the greater Los Angeles area and adjacent communities.

On December 19, 2023, the Glendale PD located a burglary group responsible for multiple burglaries in Glendale. Officers spotted three suspects enter a vehicle, wearing similar clothing consistent with descriptions previously provided. The officers started to drive in the direction where the burglaries had occurred. Glendale officers followed the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop. One suspect was detained and the other two fled on foot but were quickly apprehended. All three suspects were arrested for residential burglary.

On December 27, 2023, West Los Angeles Area officers responded to a radio call to meet officers with the Beverly Hills Police Department in the area of Coldwater Canyon Drive south of Mulholland Drive to assist with a burglary investigation where approximately five suspects fled on foot. The suspect’s vehicle was described as a black Ford Explorer. A perimeter was established, and three suspects were taken into custody after an extensive K-9 Unit search. The suspect’s vehicle was impounded, and over $1 million dollars in stolen designer purses, clothing, watches and jewelry, belonging to the victim, were recovered.

On December 28, 2023, West Los Angeles detectives, along with Metropolitan Division officers, identified a home where the suspects had been recently staying and stashing property. A search of the suspect’s residence and vehicles resulted in the discovery of additional stolen designer purses, watches, jewelry and additional evidence linking the suspects to multiple crimes. Three suspects were arrested during the incident and the case was submitted to the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office where all three suspects were filed on for one count of residential burglary.

On December 30, 2023, LAPD officers responded to a radio call of burglary suspects at a residence near Hutton Drive and Melinda Drive. Additional information was provided by the BHPD regarding a 2018 white Mercedes GLS used in an additional burglary in their region. The white Mercedes GLS was located near the area and a female inside the vehicle was detained. A perimeter was established, and four suspects were taken into custody after an extensive K-9 Unit search. All four suspects were arrested and booked for conspiracy to commit burglary.

In the past few weeks, detectives discovered evidence connecting the arrests to a large organized burglary ring responsible for a multitude of cases throughout the greater Los Angeles area. Detectives from the Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Burbank, and Glendale police departments are working in tandem with additional affected agencies to identify the remaining members of the group and to secure additional charges for the crimes they are responsible for committing. Detectives identified and returned most all the recovered stolen property to the rightful owners but hope to discover additional victim’s property as they continue their investigative efforts.

Due to the ongoing investigation additional suspect information and photographs will be released at a future time. Detectives are releasing photographs of the suspects because they believe there are additional victims who have yet to be identified.

Victims, or anyone with information to these individuals, can contact detectives at (213) 216-5308. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS/SANTA MONICA—On January 10, the LAPD disclosed that on January 9, the Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCTF) served a search warrant in the 400 block of West 7th Street in Downtown Los Angeles that recovered thousands of dollars in stolen goods and U.S. Currency. The personnel from the ORCTF, which consists of detectives from Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Burbank, Torrance, and Glendale Police Departments, were involved in the operation.

The LAPD indicated in a news release that the investigation was on a business believed to be selling stolen merchandise. The ORCTF is actively investigating individuals who steal from retail establishments, as well as the individuals or businesses who receive it with the intent to resell the stolen items to consumers.

Over $23,000 of US currency, a firearm, and hundreds of items including high-end eyewear and clothing, jewelry, and designer bags were recovered during the operation. The recovered property was conservatively estimated at a value of $300,000. Detectives are working with retailers to identify their items. Any evidence that is identified as having been stolen will be returned to the victims.

The ORCTF will continue to conduct operations throughout the Los Angeles County with the focus of identifying, disrupting, and arresting retail thieves and those who sell stolen items.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills Public Works Department is inviting the public to the celebrate with Public Works Day on Saturday, May 19. The goal of the event is for the community to learn how the Public Works Department supports the quality of life in the community every day.

The event will be held at the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market located at Civic Center Drive and Third Street. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

There will be things to entertain the entire family including a Public Works Construction Play Zone, petting zoo/pony ride for a nominal fee, goodie giveaways, big trucks, music and games.

For information contact the city of Beverly Hills Public Works Department at (310) 285-2467 or visit www.beverlyhills.org/pwday.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Greystone Mansion will be hosting an upcoming event for the Greystone at the Movies on Wednesday, January 10 and Thursday, January 11 with a screening of the film “The Bodyguard.” The movie stars the late singer Whitney Houston and Academy Award winner Kevin Costner.

Doors will open at 6 p.m. Individuals can tour locations used during filming begins at 6:30 followed by the movie. Tickets: $15 (Beverly Hills residents) / $20 (non-residents)
Beverly Hills completed the restoration of the Greystone Theatre in spring 2020. It is now a multi-use space preserving the historic character of the room while offering a state-of-the-art cinema and small stage for live performance.

The 1992 film “The Bodyguard” was nominated for two Academy Awards for Best Original Song for “I Have Nothing” and “Run To You.” The films soundtrack became the highest selling soundtrack of all time and won the Grammy Award for Album of the Year at the 36th Annual Grammy Awards.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On January 2, city officials in southern California reminded residents how to recycle their Christmas Trees. 

The Los Angeles County Public Works published the following information about the proper disposal of Christmas Trees on their website:

“Most of the Cities in Los Angeles County have requested residents to remove ornaments/decorations, tinsel, plastic containers, metal/plastic/wood stands, nails, and lights. If none shown, please contact your city for options. See below for special instructions. Unless otherwise noted. The Christmas trees can then be placed at curbside next to the recycling and waste containers on scheduled trash collection day(s) during the time-period noted. Please see special instructions for further details and possible exceptions to these rules in your city.”

The city of Bevely Hills collection dates are from December 26, 2023, through January 11, 2024.

The city of Santa Monica indicated on their website they are collecting trees from December 26, 2023, through January 31, 2024. The Resource Recovery and Recycling Administrator, Yvonne Yeung, who authored the post regarding the recycling of the trees advises that there is no need to call 311 for pick-up, and requests patience from the public as they are working diligently in getting the trees off the curbs in a timely manner.

“Place trees by the curb by 6 a.m. on service day. Trees over 6ft must be cut in half. No stands, ornaments or flocked trees accepted,” the city of Santa Monica stated. Residents may call 310-458-2223 or email recycling@santamonica.gov to schedule pick-ups through the end of January.

The city of West Hollywood has pick-up dates from December 26, 2023, through January 6, 2024.

The city of Malibu is allowing Christmas Tree pick-ups from December 26, 2023 – January 16, 2024. and stated:

“Place the tree by the curb by 6 a.m. on service day. Trees over 6ft must be cut in half. Plastic trees/foliage will not be accepted, call to schedule a bulky item pick-up.”

Residents from some parts of the coverage area can take their Christmas trees to the local fire station for recycling.

In Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles Fire Department, Fire Station #88 is currently taking trees at 5101 N. Sepulveda Boulevard.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced in an email to Canyon News that the first Beverly Hills Police Department Coffee with a Cop Event will be held on Thursday, January 18.

The gathering allows members of the community to meet with the BHPD over a cup of coffee. The event will occur from 9:30 a.m. through 11:30 a.m. at Café Sheera, which is located at 443 N. Bedford Drive.

“We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to Cafe Sheera for hosting this event and helping us bring the community together. No formal agenda, just a cup of coffee and friendly chats. Whether you have questions or just want to say hello, we’re here to connect,” the city of Beverly Hills stated.

For additional updates regarding the BHPD visit beverlyhills.org/BHPDconnect.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS–College football’s most legendary bowl game tradition, the Lawry’s Beef Bowl, returned for its 67th year. Each year since its inception, with one exception, before the 1957 Rose Bowl Game, Lawry’s The Prime Rib in Beverly Hills has hosted the participating college football teams for a pre-bowl celebratory prime rib dinner.

Since 1956, Lawry’s has hosted both participating Rose Bowl teams on separate nights to indulge in the restaurant’s “signature” chilled spinning salad, thick-cut prime rib, creamed corn, mashed potatoes, brown gravy, and apple pie á la mode.

Lawry’s welcomed back the Beef Bowl with the student-athletes and coaches of the University of Michigan and The University of Alabama on Dec. 28 and 29, respectively.

Following a fanfare arrival with live marching bands and police escorts, Kris Jenkins from the University of Michigan helped with the opening dinner honors each night with the famous Lawry’s tableside spinning salad.

Trevor Keegan from the University of Michigan and Jaheim Oatis from The University of Alabama each had the honor of doing the ceremonial first cut of prime rib for the Beef Bowl.

Following the ceremonial honors, both teams enjoyed a traditional prime rib dinner from Lawry’s including the famous spinning bowl salad, a California cut of prime rib served with Yorkshire pudding, mashed potatoes, gravy, creamed corn, and horseradish, finished off with apple pie a la mode for dessert.

Zak Zinter from the University of Michigan and Seth McLaughlin from The University of Alabama were each awarded the Scholar-Athlete Award during the Beef Bowl.

“It’s been special. Especially with the group of guys we have, they’re going to be friends for the rest of my life. They’re going to be in my wedding,” said Keegan. “These guys we got and this team we have, it’s already an amazing group to be around, having this whole experience. This is an amazing week we will remember for the rest of our lives.”

This Rose Bowl is part of the College Football Playoffs, the winner will face either Texas or Washington for the National Championship.

On New Year’s Day, the No.1 Michigan Wolverines will face No. 4 Alabama Crimson Tide in the Rose Bowl. Kickoff is slated for 2:00 p.m. and will air on ESPN.

By Christopher

MULHOLLAND/BEVERLY HILLS—The Los Angeles Fire Department reported on December 22, they rescued three teenagers after their car toppled down a steep hillside near Mulholland Drive and Java Drive on December 19.

The teens were not injured during the incident, but were stranded at the bottom of the long rain-slickened slope until responders from the LAFD arrived on the scene. Officials were able to hoist them one-at-a-time to the roadway above using a basket stretcher and rope rescue system. No additional details about the accident have been disclosed to the public.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Friday, December 22, the Beverly Hills Police Department reported a hit-and-run accident on Olympic Boulevard and Rexford Drive that shut down traffic on Olympic in all directions. At approximately 6 p.m., a woman traveling eastbound on Olympic Blvd. struck and critically injured a male pedestrian. Reports indicate the suspect fled the scene of the crime.

According to police, the victim was taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center where he was listed in critical condition. The suspect who did not stop to render aid to the injured party, was located at an undisclosed location, arrested, and taken into custody.

California law places the driver who strikes a pedestrian with their car at fault. In addition, drivers are required to report the accident, stop and render aid if needed, and wait for police to arrive before leaving the scene.

Canyon News contacted the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department for additional information about the suspect, but did not hear back in time for print.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On December 19, the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department announced the arrest of Beverly Hills basketball great, Chance Comanche, 27, who played center for the NBA’s Stockton Kings. He and his 19-year-old girlfriend, Sakari Harnden, have been arrested and face charges for the kidnapping and murder of 23-year-old Marayna Rodgers.

Reports indicate that two friends later identified as, Comanche and Sakari reported Rodgers missing on December 7. On December 15, Rodgers’ body was found in the Nevada desert.

According to the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department, Chance Kyler Comanche, birthdate April 14, 1996, and is now, six foot 11 inches tall, and 235 lbs. was booked into the Sacramento County main jail on December 15 with no release date. Jail records indicate that Comanche is ineligible for bail. There is no court date listed.

Canyon News reached out to the Public Information Officer for the Las Vegas Police Department for more information. The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) responded with the following information:

“On December 7, 2023, at approximately 3:32 p.m., two individuals walked into an LVMPD substation to report Marayna Rodgers missing. Through the course of the investigation, detectives learned that Rodgers was out with friends on December 5, 2023, and had a pre-arranged meeting with her friend Sakari Harnden (19) who would bring her boyfriend Chance Comanche (27).

Since then, Rodgers had not been seen or heard from. Early in the investigation, detectives suspected foul play and obtained evidence to arrest Harnden and her boyfriend Comanche for their role in the kidnapping and disappearance of Rodgers.

On December 13, 2023, Harnden was arrested in Las Vegas by the Criminal Apprehension Team (CAT) and booked into the Clark County Detention Center for kidnapping. On December 15, 2023, Commanche was arrested by the members of the California FBI Criminal Apprehension Team in Sacramento, California and is pending extradition to Nevada for kidnapping.

Based on information obtained after the arrest of Harnden and Commanche, detectives were able to recover human remains in a desert area in Henderson, Nevada. The remains were later identified by the Clark County Coroner to be of Marayna Rodgers.

Detectives determined that Harnden and Commanche were responsible for the murder of Rodgers. The charges for both individuals will be amended to open murder through coordination with the Clark County District Attorney’s office.

The Criminal Apprehension Team (CAT) is a multi-jurisdictional task force led by the FBI and staffed in the LVMPD’s Major Violators Bureau. It is comprised of FBI, LVMPD, Henderson and North Las Vegas Police Departments.

Multiple reports indicate that Comanche is no longer on the roster for the NBA’s Stockton Kings.

Anyone with any information about this incident is urged to contact the LVMPD Homicide Section by phone at 702-828-3521, or by email at homicide@lvmpd.com. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers by phone at 702-385-5555, or on the internet at www.crimestoppersofnv.com.”

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department, Rampart Division Auto Theft and Burglary Detectives is asking for help in identifying over 200 possibly stolen Apple devices and other electronic devices located during a recent search warrant service at a Westlake District storefront.

The LAPD reported on December 13, officers and detectives from the Los Angeles Police Department’s Rampart Division served a search warrant in the 2000 block of W. 6th Street and arrested a female suspected of receiving stolen property in relation to retail store theft.

While recovering volumes of merchandise taken from retails stores, detectives observed bookcases, storage bins, and bags full of personal electronic devices such as laptop computers, iPads, and iPhones. Detectives believe many, if not all, of the electronics recovered were taken in burglaries of vehicles and homes in the Los Angeles region.

Detectives have already identified an Apple MacBook that was taken in a Burglary from a Motor Vehicle that occurred near Echo Park back in November, in addition to $45,000 worth of cameras and camera equipment. Detectives recovered much of that stolen camera equipment in the store as well. They were able to track down the owner after discovering video in a camera that included an Investigative Reporter associated with a local news station who was recording an on-scene news report in Downtown Los Angeles last month.

Rampart Detectives have identified (8) laptop computers belonging to the Los Angeles Unified School District, (1) laptop computer belonging to the Los Angeles Public Library, and (1) laptop computer belonging to the Beverly Hills Unified School District.

Detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying additional owners of the electronics recovered and determine if they were also the victim of a crime.

Anyone with details is asked to call or email Rampart Auto Detective B. Gorby at (213) 842-0783, 36118@lapd.online, or Burglary Detective M. Pineda at (213) 484-3424, 36398@lapd.online. During non-business hours or on the weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Monday, December 18, the Beverly Hills Police Department disclosed results of the DUI Checkpoint that was conducted on Friday, December 15 at North Santa Monica Boulevard and Crescent Drive from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m.

A total of 1,790 vehicles passed through the checkpoint, and 173 were screened. Four drivers were cited for driving without a driver’s license.

DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on reported incidents of impaired driving-related crashes. The purpose of DUI checkpoints is to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off roads.

Funding for the checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

By Trevor

SANTA MONICA/BEVERLY HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department announced on December 13 that on December 5, the Organized Retail Crime Task Force (ORCTF) conducted a retail theft operation near the 700 block of South Figueroa Street. One of the ORCTF strategies in resolving organized retail crime is the utilization of plain clothes operations, where officers work with retail stores in disrupting retail theft.

Personnel from ORCTF consist of detectives from the Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Santa Monica, Burbank, Torrance and Glendale Police Departments. The ORCTF was assisted by personnel from LAPD Central Division, LAPD Transit Services Division, and Retail Loss Prevention personnel.

All the suspects who were arrested were spotted concealing merchandise and exiting the stores without paying. Uniform personnel contacted and arrested them.

The following arrests occurred on December 5, near the 700 block of South Figueroa Street:

• Tinder Math, female White, 43 years old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC- Shoplifting, Release From Custody (RFC) citation #B44029
• Anthony Williams, male Black, 30 years old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC- Shoplifting, RFC citation #B44032
• Dominique King, male Black, 33 years old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC-Shoplifting, RFC citation #B44033
• Gabriel Anthony Rubio, male Hispanic, 31 years old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC- Shoplifting, RFC citation #B44037
• Tyler Damon Bood, male White, 28 years old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC-Shoplifting, RFC Citation #032321
• Jessica Mejia, female Hispanic, 31 years old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC- Shoplifting, RFC citation #B44034
• Alecia Latonya Williams, female Black, 48 years old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC- Shoplifting and a misdemeanor warrant for 484(a)PC- Petty Theft. She was booked and housed at the Metropolitan Detention Center, Booking No. 6721796, bail was set at $15,000.00.
• Davonte Charles Carter, male Black, 32 years old, of Los Angeles, was arrested for 459.5(a)PC- Shoplifting, RFC citation #B44026

Four juveniles were also detained and arrested for shoplifting and were subsequently released to their parents.

A total of 12 arrests were made during the operation. All stolen merchandise was returned to the retailers and the ORCTF, working with the assistance of divisional personnel, recovered all stolen items. The ORCTF will be conducting additional plain clothes operations during the holidays in the Los Angeles region, with the goal of identifying, locating, and arresting retail thieves.

Anyone with details is asked to call ORCTF Lieutenant II Mike McComas, (818) 374-9420, or email 37111@LAPD.Online. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (1-800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On December 12, the Los Angeles District Attorney, George Gascon announced that Jarris Jay Silagi, 44, has been charged in the violent attack of a Jewish couple celebrating Shabbat at their synagogue in Beverly Hills.

Gascon made the following statement regarding the charges in his press release that is posted on the District Attorney’s website:

“I unequivocally condemn the violent attack inflicted upon those peacefully observing their faith. Such acts of Antisemitism have no place in our community, and we continue to be committed to ensuring justice prevails and holding the defendant accountable. Our thoughts are with the victims and all those who continue to be targeted for their faith. My office’s Hate Crimes Unit will work diligently to bring justice to the victims.”

Silagi is charged with one count of attempted second-degree robbery; one count of elder or dependent adult abuse, infliction of injury; one count of assault with a deadly weapon; and two counts of assault by means of force likely to produce great bodily injury. It is further alleged that Silagi caused great bodily injury during the commission of the crime. Silagi was arraigned today in Dept. 30 at the Airport Courthouse.

On December 9, a 75-year-old man and his wife were walking to a synagogue in Beverly Hills, while observing Shabbat during the Hannukah holiday. Silagi allegedly ran toward them striking the man, who wearing a yarmulke, once on his head with a belt, causing injury.

The incident reportedly occurred when Silagi attempted to rob the female victim. The event was captured on surveillance video.

Canyon News initially reported the following information regarding the incident indicating that the victim and his wife, who were together at the time, did not previously know the suspect at the time of the attack.

The Beverly Hills Fire Department responded to the call and treated the victim for his injuries at the scene. No further medical attention was needed at the time.
The suspect fled the scene of the crime. Canyon News Journalist Trevor Roberts reported the following information regarding the arrest.

“Officers used the information provided to quickly find, detain, and identify the suspect.
‘Our officers quickly apprehended the suspect, and he is in custody,’ said Beverly Hills Police Chief Mark Stainbrook. “This despicable act of hate against a member of our community will not be tolerated.”

Silagi is being held on $100,000 bail and is currently in custody at the Los Angeles County Jail. He has a court date on Tuesday, December 12 at the Los Angeles Airport Court. This is an ongoing investigation by the Beverly Hills Police Department Detective Bureau.

Silagi’s charges include: 245(a)(1) PC – Assault with a Deadly Weapon; 664-211 PC – Attempt Robbery; 422.75 PC – Hate Crime; 368(b)(1) – Elder Abuse.

The prosecution in the case is recommending that Silagi’s bail be set at $ 1,310,000.00.
If convicted as charged, Silagi will face a maximum sentence of life in prison.
The case was investigated by the Beverly Hills Police Department.

To report a hate crime, call 911 or call Los Angeles County’s Hate hotline at 2-1-1.

By Sharon

MALIBU—The city of Malibu announced on Thursday, December 14 of the launch of a new website aimed to keeping the community informed about ongoing efforts to improve safety conditions on Pacific Coast Highway (PCH) within Malibu city limits.

The website, www.MalibuCity.org/PCHSafety, is intended to serve as a central hub for updates, resources, and key information related to PCH safety projects, and milestones. This initiative represents a significant step forward in the City’s commitment to transparency, education, and community engagement on all things PCH.

“Our goal is to create an environment where safety is a shared responsibility. This webpage serves as a vital tool for keeping our community and stakeholders informed about the ongoing efforts to enhance public safety on PCH in Malibu,” said City Manager Steve McClary. “We believe that an informed community is a safer community.”

The newly created website is designed to be a one-stop destination for residents, businesses, and visitors seeking the latest information on PCH Safety efforts. Key features include, but are not limited to, the following:

-City Updates: Stay informed about any recent actions taken by the City of Malibu to address safety concerns on PCH.

-Events and Meetings: Find information on recent or upcoming events, meetings and opportunities for community involvement and collaboration relevant to PCH safety.

-PCH Safety Taskforce Updates: Stay engaged with summaries and outcomes from PCH Taskforce meetings as we actively work to address challenges and implement solutions to improve safety along this vital corridor.

-Updates on efforts by County and State Elected Officials: Stay informed on the latest developments from our local and State legislative partners working towards enhancing safety measures on PCH.

-Enforcement Initiatives: Learn about our efforts led by LA County Sherriff’s Department and California Highway Patrol to improve traffic management, promote safe driving practices and address specific safety concerns.

-Resources: Find valuable resources, including PCH traffic and law enforcement reports and statistics to better understand the current state of PCH safety.

-Fact Sheet: A list of actions the City has taken to improve PCH safety.

Improving the safety of Pacific Coast Highway has been a goal for the community. PCH is a state highway under the jurisdiction of Caltrans, leaving the city of Malibu with limited ability to make changes to the highway. Malibu has taken numerous actions and invested millions of dollars in recent years to improve PCH safety within its ability.

Conditions on PCH have gotten hazardous with excessive speeding, reckless and distracted driving, and intoxicated driving. Since 2010, 58 individuals died on Pacific Coast Highway in Malibu. During the past 10 years, the city has had more than 4,000 traffic collisions, 1,600 of which involved injuries, and more than 100,000 traffic citations have been issued. On October 17, 2023, four Pepperdine students were killed after being struck by a speeding motorist while walking on PCH.

On November 13, 2023, the Malibu City Council declared a Local Emergency. The proactive measure underscores the urgency and significance of addressing this threat to public safety in our community.

Community members can visit www.MalibuCity.org/PCHSafety regularly to stay informed and engaged in the collective effort to improve safety on Pacific Coast Highway. Any significant updates on the PCH safety effort will be posted on the website, as well as on the city’s social media platforms.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On December 13, Canyon News discovered Friends Books store, a hidden gem that has become quite popular in Beverly Hills. Canyon News contacted Dr. Tracey Wilen-Daugenti who serves on the board of the Friends of the Library, contributing to the Bookstore Operations, Technology, and Marketing committees. The bookstore is located at 444 N. Rexford Drive in Beverly Hills and is open for business Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., and 12:00-4:00 p.m. on Sundays.

Dr. Wilen-Daugenti indicated that in a time when everyone seems to be so plugged-in, there has been a recent trend of readers returning to books they can hold in their hands for solace. The Beverly Hills Friends of the Library Bookstore offers a unique experience. The following caption came directly from the Friends of Beverly Hills Public Library website. “Many of our customers liken us to a trendy indie bookstore because we have edgy current collections at nominal prices. We receive shipments daily from generous donors. Many of our items are brand new or gently used in excellent condition. As a nonprofit 501(c)(3) the money we receive is used to support library community literacy programs. Friends of the Library also offers after school programs during the school year for students. Through a recent grant from the Beverly Hills Rotary Club, home delivery services are provided to seniors 85 years of age and up. Our store’s diverse holdings include, Art, Cookbooks, Fiction, Non-fiction, Politics, Comics, Graphic Novels, Manga, Science Fiction, Children’s books, young adult books, family classics Collector’s items, reference, romance, mystery, suspense, DVD’s, CD’s, self-help, and signed, books,” [and even some first editions.] “We restock our shelves with new donations several times a week.” According to the Friends of the Library Holiday Newsletter, giftwrapping will be offered during various times in the month of December for all your in-store purchases. A Friends of the Library memberships are offered for as low as $50 for that hard to buy for reader on your list. Gift cards and stocking stuffers are also available for purchase. This year for the Annual Holiday Sale, they have added more inventory. The sale continues until December 22nd with half off on everything in the store that is priced over $1.00. Due to an upsurge in donations, the art section in the bookstore has expanded. They also carry a wide variety of jigsaw puzzles, and games. Friends of Beverly Hills Public Library (FBHPL) is currently accepting donations of gently used books, CDs, DVDs, audiobooks, and puzzles. For those who have private libraries, or estate donations, please call 310-288-2234 to speak to a volunteer or for those who live within five miles of the store, you may schedule a pick-up. There are plenty of volunteer opportunities at FBHPL. All volunteers will be properly trained.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department Traffic Bureau will be conducting a sobriety and driver’s license checkpoint on Friday, December 15, in the area of North Santa Monica Boulevard and Crescent Drive. The checkpoint will be operational from approximately 7 p.m. and conclude at approximately 2 a.m.

All traffic will pass through the checkpoint. Motorists will be stopped and contacted by uniformed officers, who will check for alcohol and/or drug-impaired drivers. Officers will check to ensure all contacted drivers have a valid driver’s license.

DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes and the goal is to take suspected impaired drivers off the road.
“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” said Police Chief Mark G. Stainbrook. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety.”

The BHPD reminds the public impaired driving is not just from alcohol, but some prescription medications and over-the-counter drugs may interfere with driving. While medicinal and recreational marijuana are legal, driving under the influence of marijuana is illegal.

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties, as well as a suspended license.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Sunday, January 7, 2024, the 81st Annual Golden Globes Awards will take place at the Beverly Hilton Hotel. To help with security for the event and to limit the impact of traffic on adjacent residential streets, street closures and parking restrictions will be implemented.

STREET CLOSURES

North Santa Monica Boulevard

Westbound curb lane closures: West of Wilshire Boulevard will be closed beginning at 6 a.m. Tuesday, January 2 through 4 a.m. until Monday, January 8, 2024.

Westbound complete sidewalk and street closures: from Wilshire Blvd. to Century Park East from 9 p.m. on Friday, January 5 through 4 a.m. on Monday, January 8.

Eastbound complete sidewalk and street closures: from Century Park East to Wilshire Boulevard from 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 6 through 4 a.m. on Monday, January 8.
Alternate Routes: South Santa Monica Boulevard to remain open in both directions.

Wilshire Boulevard

Eastbound curb lane closures: East of Whittier, beginning at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, January 2 through 4 a.m. on Monday, January 8.

Eastbound: Full closure of Wilshire Boulevard at Comstock beginning at 10 p.m. on Saturday, January 6 until 4 a.m. on January 8.

Eastbound lanes will be completely closed between the Los Angeles Country Club and North Santa Monica Boulevard (local access to residents and Country Club guests in the 10200-10300 blocks of Wilshire Blvd.) beginning at 10 p.m. Saturday, January 6 through 4 a.m. Monday, January 8.

Westbound: One westbound lane remains open to through-traffic until 6 a.m. on January 7.
At 6 a.m. on Sunday, January 7, ALL lanes will be closed to all traffic until 4 a.m. on Monday, January 8, from Wilshire Boulevard between Comstock and South Santa Monica Boulevard.

Whittier, Carmelita, Elevado and Lomitas at Walden Dr. and Trenton Dr. and adjacent alleys:

These streets will be “local access only” beginning at 6 a.m. Sunday, January 7 through 4 a.m. Monday, January 8; All streets will be posted with no-parking signs.

Parking will be completely restricted (no exceptions) from 6 a.m. Sunday, January 7 through 4 a.m. Monday, January 8:

-Whittier Driv: Wilshire Boulevard to Walden Drive
-Carmelita Avenue: Wilshire Boulevard to Walden Drive
-Elevado Avenue: Wilshire Boulevard to Walden Drive
-Trenton Drive: Whittier Drive to Wilshire Boulevard
-Walden Drive: Santa Monica Boulevard to Elevado Avenue

For residents without permit parking, a parking exemption can be obtained by contacting the Beverly Hills’ Parking Exemption Line at (310) 285-2548 or online at beverlyhills.org/parkingexemptions.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department indicated in an email to Canyon News that a suspect has been arrested for an assault involving a deadly weapon on Saturday, December 9.

The BHPD reported at approximately 9:03 a.m., officers responded to the area of North Rexford Drive and North Santa Monica Boulevard regarding a reported assault with a deadly weapon. Patrol officers responded quickly and located an elderly victim who sustained a laceration on his head after being struck with a belt.

The victim was by his spouse during the time of the crime. There is no relationship between the suspect and the victim. During the commission of the crime, the suspect made anti-Semitic statements to the victim who was treated by the Beverly Hills Fire Department at the scene and did not require further medical attention.

The suspect fled the scene prior to police arrival. After a search by the Beverly Hills Police Department personnel, an individual matching the suspect description was witnessed fleeing by a BHPD Senior Forensic Specialist.

Officers used the information provided to quickly find, detain, and identify the suspect.
“Our officers quickly apprehended the suspect and he is in custody,” said Beverly Hills Police Chief Mark Stainbrook. “This despicable act of hate against a member of our community will not be tolerated.”

Arrested for the assault was Jarris Jay Silagi, 44, of Los Angeles. Silagi’s charges include: 245(a)(1) PC – Assault with a Deadly Weapon; 664-211 PC – Attempt Robbery; 422.75 PC – Hate Crime; 368(b)(1) – Elder Abuse.

Silagi is being held on $100,000 bail and is currently in custody at the Los Angeles County Jail. He has a court date on Tuesday, December 12 at the Los Angeles Airport Court. This is an ongoing investigation by the Beverly Hills Police Department Detective Bureau.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—A Tesla crashed into the Beverly Hills Gymnastic Center on West Olympic Boulevard on Friday, December 1, FOX 11 Los Angeles first reported.

In the video, it appears the Tesla lost control while attempting to turn the corner and collides into the building. No one inside the building was hurt during the crash that transpired shortly after the lunch hour.

No details have been disclosed whether the driver was under the influence during the time of the crash.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department announced on Thursday, November 30 that a suspect has been arrested in a fatal follow-home robbery that transpired in San Dimas. The LAPD reported that on November 30, the Beverly Hills Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a 2024 Gray BMW 440i 4-door with a California plate “9JOE329″ that was wanted in connection to a robbery-murder that occurred in San Dimas.

While conducting the traffic stop, officers detained and arrested Jerrid Joseph Powell, 33, who was wanted for the incident. During the search of the vehicle, a firearm was recovered. BHPD detectives believe the recovered gun in Powell’s vehicle was likely used in the robbery-murder.

The victim in the follow-home robbery has been identified as Nicholas Simbolon, 42, who was killed after pulling into his garage in the 1800 block of Hawkbrook Drive on Tuesday, November 28. He was shot in the upper torso by Powell after 6:55 p.m. Upon taking personal belongings, the suspect shot the victim and fled the crime scene.

Simbolon was followed home by Powell after charging his Tesla at a West Covina EV station. The victim worked with Los Angeles County Executive Office as a project manager. He leaves behind a wife and two sons, ages 8 and 10. Powell is being held on a $2 million dollar bail.

The Los Angeles Police Department – Robbery Homicide Division detectives suspect Powell is the person wanted in three murders that occurred in Los Angeles. According to the LAPD, ballistic examination determined that the firearm was connected to all three murders. Powell will remain in custody pending the filing of criminal charges.

“I am grateful for the collective work of the Los Angeles Sheriff Department and Beverly Hills Police Department that has resulted in the identification and arrest of the individual we believe is responsible for these vicious crimes. I am proud of the extraordinary work of our detectives and forensic services personnel for their efforts and collaborative work to identify and apprehend the person responsible to prevent further loss of life. We thank the District Attorney for the services he is dedicating to the prosecution in this case,” said Los Angeles Police Chief Michel Moore.

“The amazing coordination and communication between our partner agencies, along with technology, helped take this dangerous individual off our streets to protect our community. Sheriff’s Homicide investigators will continue to work with our justice partners to ensure we hold this individual accountable for these heinous murders,” said Sheriff Robert G. Luna.

Los Angeles County Chief Executive Officer, Fesia Davenport regarded Mr. Simbolon in that “he was key in developing application software that helped propel the office forward and also to help our mission to deliver services to citizens and residents of LA County.”

Justice Deputy for Board of Supervisor Kathryn Barger, Sandra Croxton delivered remarks on behalf of Supervisor Barger. “The entire county family joins his loved ones in mourning his loss.  He will be greatly missed.”

San Dimas City Mayor, Emmett Badar also expressed his condolences. “Our prayers are with the family, and we certainly want the community to know that we’ll be there to support them.”

The LAPD’s Central and South Bureau were searching for Powell who is believed to be connected to three murders of homeless individuals in Los Angeles.

The Los Angeles Police Department are investigating three separate murders that occurred between November 26 and November 29. In each case, the victims were experiencing homelessness. Some similarities have been identified, but detectives are working to determine if all the murders are related. Two of the victims killed have been identified as Mark Diggs and Jose Bolanos. Powell is believed to have shot and killed the three homeless individuals as they slept.

Authorities are warning the public if they suspect that are being followed to not go to their homes but drive to the nearest police station or sheriff’s station and contact 911. If able, obtain the license plate and description of the vehicle that is following.

Anyone with details is asked to contact the Los Angeles Police Department’s Robbery-Homicide Division, Homicide Special Section, at (213) 486-6890. During non-business hours or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247).  Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the LA Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills is inviting the public to participate in the Menorah Lighting Celebration that will transpire on Thursday, December 7. Members from the Beverly Hills City Council will be in attendance at the Beverly Hills Gardens Park Lily Pond at Santa Monica Boulevard between North Canon Drive and North Beverly Drive.

The event will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. The city of Beverly Hills is hosting a slew of events for the holiday season including the “Unwrap the Magic” Project Show at Beverly Hills City Hall until January 1, 2024.

Show times are daily every 30 minutes starting at 6 p.m. until 9:30 p.m. The Jolly Trolley is also running until December 30, 2023, where it will pick up individuals on the corner of Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way in downtown Beverly Hills, and will take visitors to the “Unwrap the Magic” projection show.

The trolley takes 30 minutes to loop back to a stop. It operates from 6 p.m. thru 9 p.m. Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Stops alternate every 15 minutes. The schedule is tentative and subject to change.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills City Council will consider the memoranda of understanding (MOUs) with the city’s six (6) non-sworn employee associations: the Management & Professional Association, Supervisors Association, Confidential Employees Association, Safety Support Association, Municipal Employees Association and Municipal Employees Association Part-Time Unit during the Tuesday, December 5, City Council Formal Session. The meeting will begin at 7 p.m. in Council Chamber.

During that meeting, members of the City Council will consider proposed amendments to the Executive Compensation Plan.

According to a press release from the city of Beverly Hills website, under state law, the city participates in labor negotiations with its employee associations.

In accordance with state law, the City of Beverly Hills participates in labor negotiations with its employee associations. The results of the negotiations process are written agreements or contracts reached between Beverly Hills and the city employee associations. The agreements are commonly referred to as MOUs (Memorandum of Understanding).

A MOU is a cooperative agreement between two parties that can include general terms and goals and is not intended to be legally binding.

The MOUs have been ratified by each of the employee associations and are subject to adoption if approved by the Beverly Hills City Council. Negotiations with the groups were completed in mid-October with the proposed MOUs covering salaries and benefits for a three-year term for all six employee associations.

The first public meeting was held on February 21, 2023, and a community meeting was held on February 9 regarding the labor negotiations.

Per the City’s Civic Openness in Negotiations (COIN) Ordinance, an independent fiscal analysis was conducted for each MOU. The fiscal analyses and proposed MOUs are posted on the City’s website at www.beverlyhills.org/negotiations.

There are nine represented employee associations within Beverly Hills. The following association MOUs are currently not up for negotiations until 2025: The Beverly Hills Police Officers’ Association, Police Management Association and Firefighters’ Association.

While not required per the City’s labor relations ordinance (Beverly Hills Municipal Code, Article 5 Section 2-5-503-B), as is the case with the city’s represented employee groups, proposed amendments to the Executive Compensation Plan will be posted on city of Beverly Hills’ website at beverlyhills.org/executives on November 21, two weeks before the December 5 meeting.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, November 14, the City of Beverly Hills revealed that former Mayor Charles ‘Chuck’ Aronberg, M.D. passed away at the age of 93 on Thursday, November 9.

Aronberg served as a Beverly Hills Councilmember for 12 years in addition to his two terms serving as Mayor:1974-1975 and 1979-1980. Beverly Hills lowered its flag to half-staff.

“’Mayor’ Dr. Aronberg, Chuck, was an exceptional physician and a remarkably dedicated public servant,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Julian Gold. “He served as councilmember and mayor and his amazing achievements span decades, from developing the Joint Powers Agreement with our School District to bringing the paramedic program to Beverly Hills. His legacy will live on for many generations and he will be deeply missed.”

Aronberg was born in Chicago on August 30, 1930 and relocated to Los Angeles when he was just 10 years old. He graduated from Los Angeles High School at the age of 15.

He specialized in ophthalmology and served as the official team doctor for the Los Angeles Lakes, Raiders, and Kings, despite an interest in law. He also consulted for UCLA and the Los Angeles Dodgers. He also served as the physician for two Olympic Games. He earned UCLA’s Alumnus of the Year for Community Service and Alumnus of the year for UCSF School of Medicine.

He was an advocate of seat belt legislation and its push to be installed in cars. He collaborated with Ralph Nader to mandate various safety improvements and worked with Congressman Henry Waxman during the development of water and clean air acts.

He earned the ‘Key to the City’ honor in 2022 from former Beverly Hills Mayor and current City Councilmember, Lili Bosse.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department announced on November 8 that they were awarded an $80,000 grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety (OTS). The grant will support ongoing enforcement and education programs to help decrease the number of serious injuries and deaths on roads.

“This funding will strengthen our commitment to public safety in our community,” said Police Chief Mark G. Stainbrook. “We will be able to increase our efforts in making our roads safer for everyone and focus on critical areas such as distracted driving, impaired driving, and speeding.”

The grant will provide additional programs and resources, including:

-DUI checkpoints and patrols focused on stopping suspected impaired drivers.

-High visibility distracted driving enforcement operations targeting drivers in violation of California’s hands-free cell phone law.

-Enforcement operations focused on the most dangerous driver behaviors that put the safety of people biking or walking at risk.

-Enforcement operations focused on top violations that cause crashes: speeding, failure to yield, stop sign, and/or red-light running, and improper turning or lane changes.

-Officer training and/or recertification: Standard Field Sobriety Test (SFST), Advanced Roadside Impaired Driving Enforcement (ARIDE), and Drug Recognition Expert (DRE).

The grant program will run through September 2024. Funding for the program was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA).

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills and the Rodeo Drive Committee revealed details for the upcoming annual Rodeo Drive Holiday Lighting Celebration to take place on Thursday, November 16 from 5 to 8 p.m. featuring a special live performance by Emmy Award-winning actor and singer Sheryl Lee Ralph.

Ralph is known for her work on the ABC comedy “Abbott Elementary” where she recently won a Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Comedy Series. She also appeared on the comedy series “Moesha” co-starring with singer and actress Brandy Norwood.

There will be lights on the palm trees, rose bushes and much more for the holidays.
“Our Holiday Lighting Celebration is an opportunity for us to come together, recognize how fortunate we are, and begin this year’s holiday season – a celebration of our City and a hopeful beginning for the New Year,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Julian A Gold. “At the same time, we recognize the impact of world events and our thoughts are with those here and abroad as we approach the holiday season. We hope they can find a sense of hopefulness and strength as we all overcome darkness with light.”

“The reveal of this year’s decor themed Up Up and Away Holiday! celebrates the start of the holiday season and brings together our community and visitors on Rodeo Drive. We are delighted to welcome Sheryl Lee Ralph to our iconic street, where each magical encounter promises to be a gift, unwrapping our hopes and dreams for everyone,” said Kay Monica Rose, President of the Rodeo Drive Committee.

There will be three stages on Rodeo Drive with performances from The Wallis’s critically-acclaimed theatrical experience “LOVE ACTUALLY LIVE” inspired by the 2003 holiday film written and directed by Richard Curtis, by cast members B. Slade, the two-time Emmy Award-winner and four-time Grammy-nominee and Madison Taylor Baez, who at 12-years old earned the “America’s Got Talent” Season 17 golden buzzer with her soulful voice, and there will be songs from The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles (GMCLA).

The evening’s entertainment will also include performances by The Maccabeats, a Jewish a cappella phenomenon that released four successful albums and made multiple TV appearances; LA-based Bollywood dance sensation Nazara, who will bring a fusion of Bollywood and Indian classical dance; timeless classics by Broadway’s seasoned singer and actor Terron Brooks and former American Idol contestant Vonzell Solomon, both individually celebrated for their remarkable talents and who have now joined forces as a soulful duet; a special drum performance by LA-based Cajon Drummer Nick Adams known for his collaborations with top artists and appearances on major TV shows; a special dance performance from the Holiday Rhythm Tappers, the duo from So You Think You Can Dance; harmonious renditions of beloved holiday tunes from The Four Parts Barbershop Quartet and Winter Wonderland Carolers, and sonic sounds by DJ Z. Celebrating the incredible shopping on Rodeo Drive and in Beverly Hills, the Holiday Helpers will perform Shopper’s Delight, a bold and colorful dance set.

There will be performers including those with towering Peppermint Stilts, food, a wine garden and photo opportunities for guests throughout the evening.

Mayor Gold and members of the Beverly Hills City Council members will countdown the crowd and illuminate Rodeo Drive’s center median bringing to life the Up Up & Away Holiday! decor in its full adornment. Santa Claus, led by the Beverly Hills High School marching band will arrive on the Beverly Hills Fire Truck and a fireworks finale will also transpire.

The holiday festivities will continue across the region through January 1, 2024 with the following installations available for viewing nightly: The “Glowing Gardens” which includes giant tree and ornament sculptures at Beverly Cañon Gardens Park; the “Lights on the Lily Pond” show at Beverly Gardens Park which takes place every 15 minutes beginning at 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.; and back for its second year, the incredible “Unwrap the Magic” projection show viewable nightly every half hour from 6 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on the iconic Beverly Hills City Hall Tower located at the corner of N Santa Monica Boulevard and N Crescent Drive.

Beverly Hills will have its historic trolley car, adorned with holiday garland and named the “Jolly Trolley” for the holiday season running to take visitors to the “Unwrap the Magic” projection show every Thursday through Sunday evening from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. (excluding holidays) from its stops at Rodeo Drive and Dayton Way and N Crescent Drive and N Santa Monica Boulevard.

There will also be a family friendly holiday celebration for children of all ages on Saturday, December 2 and Sunday, December 3 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at Greystone Mansion and Gardens.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Monday November 6, the Beverly Hills Police Department announced they arrested a suspect in connection to an assault with a deadly weapon.

The BHPD reported at approximately 2:38 p.m. they received emergency calls of a possible physical altercation on the 100 block of South Roxbury Drive. Officers responded quickly and located a 34-year-old male who had been stabbed.

The suspect fled the scene prior to police arriving on the scene.

After a thorough search, officers and with assistance from the BHPD Real Time Watch Center, an individual matching the suspect description was identified and detained in the area of Charleville Boulevard and Lasky Drive at 3:06 p.m.

Authorities do not believe there is a relationship between the suspect and the victim. The victim is being treated at a local hospital, where he is listed in stable condition. Geovany Huerta, 20, of Los Angeles was charged with 664-187 PC Attempt Murder.

He is being held on $1 million bail and is currently in custody at the Los Angeles County Jail. He has a court date of Wednesday, November 8, at the Los Angeles Airport Court.

The BHPD is still investigating the case. Detectives determined that the stabbing incident stemmed from an interrupted theft of property.

Anyone with details about this crime is asked to contact the BHPD at 310-285-2125. Anonymous reports can be made by texting TIP BHPDAlert followed by the tip information to 888777. Individuals can call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. To access Crime Stoppers, download the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP or use the website https://www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Wednesday, October 25, employees of Bedford Manor Apartments located at 470 S. Bedford Drive reported antisemitic vandalism spray painted onto the outer wall of one of the apartments close to Olympic Boulevard. Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) officers responded to the scene.

Multiple reports indicate that a good portion of the tenants residing at Bedford Manor are of Jewish descent. The vandalism discovered was outside the home of Ms. Klara Firestone. She told ABC7 how scared she was. Firestone indicated that her mother, who is a 99-year-old holocaust survivor also resides at the complex.

“It’s just terribly emotional and it’s frightening. It’s frightening to know that it’s happening in my home, literally in my home. That’s really what stings, that the world has not learned the lessons and has not changed one iota. There are still those that would relish my demise and dance on my grave. I think that this global conflict now, in the Middle East, certainly has polarized everybody. It’s a civil society issue,” Firestone told ABC7.

Canyon News reached out to Lt. and Executive Officer Reginald Evans of the BHPD who indicated the following details of antisemitic acts in the area: 

On October 25, at approximately 1:39 in the 400 block of S. Bedford Drive.

“Circumstances: Officers were dispatched to a report of antisemitic vandalism. During the on-scene investigation, it was determined the vandalism depicted hate speech with the use of spray paint. The time of occurrence was unknown.”

On October 25, at approximately 2:05 p.m. in the 300 block of S. Palm Drive

“Circumstances: Officers were dispatched to a report of antisemitic vandalism. An unknown suspect used spray paint to spray antisemitic hate speech on the back of a residence during an unknown period. Beverly Hills Public Works responded for removal at the request of the victim.

The suspect(s) in both cases appear to be related based on verbiage, style and color of the spray paint.

The BHPD are investigating these crimes as hate crimes.

Anyone having information about any of these incidents or others should call the BHPD at (310) 285-2125. To remain anonymous text BEVHILLSPD followed by the tip information to 888777.

The Anti-Defamation League (ADL) has reported a dramatic increase in what they referred to as “antisemitic” hate crimes since the Hamas massacre that occurred on October 7th.

The ADL Center on Extremism reported on their website that, “Incidents of harassment, vandalism, and assault have increased by 388 percent over the same period last year.”

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on its website that the Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market will be hosting the Holiday Craft Fair and Cookie Baking Contest on December 10 at the 9300 block of Civic Center Drive.

The event will run from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and will feature local artisans to help the community with their holiday shopping which includes jewelry, oils, clothing, pottery, florals and candles.

For the Cookie Baking Contest, the Best Tasting: 1st place $200, 2nd place $100, 3rd place $50. Best Looking cookie will receive a $50 prize. The rules of the contest are as follows:

1. Only home-baked cookies will be accepted. The cookies must be prepared and baked by the contestant submitting the entry for judging. Amateur bakers only. Professional chefs and restaurant entries will not be accepted.

2. One submission per contestant, please. Each contestant must bring 12 cookies of a single recipe.

3. Only the first 20 entries will be accepted. To be considered, complete the application below and pay the nonrefundable $5.00 entry fee. Contestants may pay on line here, bring payment to the Farmers’ Market Sundays 9-1pm in the info booth or mail a check to Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market, c/o Community Services, 501 Doheny Road, Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

4. The submission deadline is Wednesday, December 6 by 5pm.

5. All entries become the property of the City of Beverly Hills. We reserve the right to use your entry in all print and electronic media, and to edit recipes for brevity and clarity.

6. Contestants must bring their cookies to the judges booth by 9am on Sunday, December 10, 2023. Winners will be announced at 12:15pm.

As always, the Farmers Market will feature 50 certified farmers and specialty vendors, family arts and crafts projects, a kid zone for pony rides and a petting zoo and live entertainment.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, October 24, the U.S. Department of Justice announced the indictment of Oren David Sela, 35, of North Hills (25 miles north of the San Fernando Valley) in an identity theft case of fraudulently obtaining close to $2.6 million allegedly.

Reports indicate that Sela stole mail and packages delivered to Beverly Hills residents and used their personal information to open bank accounts in their names. He proceeded to illegally transfer money out of his victims’ bank accounts.

Sela was charged in an eight-count indictment by a federal grand jury including three counts of bank fraud, one count of aggravated identity theft, one count of possession of 15 or more unauthorized electronic access devices, one count of unlawful possession of five or more identity documents, and two counts of possession of stolen mail.

Reports indicate that Sela had been incarcerated since December 2022, when he was arrested for driving a stolen car. During his arrest, police found several debit cards in the names of at least six of his victims.

Upon further investigation, authorities were able to recover bank account information on at least 18 different victims, several debit cards, and large retail items including a $17,000 watch.

According to prosecutors, if convicted, Sela may face up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of bank fraud, plus up to 10 years in prison for unauthorized possession of access devices, and five additional years prison time for each count of mail fraud. In addition, he could be sentenced to a mandatory two-year prison sentence for aggravated identity theft to be served consecutively with his other sentences.

According to the DOJ, authorities believe there may be up to 20 additional victims from Sela’s identity theft schemes that took place between November 2021 and October 2023.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on its website that crews from the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California (MWD) are planning repairs to a pipeline that delivers water to Beverly Hills. Water customers across the service area are being asked to conserve water from Monday, November 6 to Wednesday, November 8.

The city will be using water supplies from its existing reservoirs and its own water treatment plant while MWD work is completed.

Over the three days, the city is asking customers to refrain from outdoor watering and conserve water indoors as much as possible.

For additional water wise tips visit www.bhsaves.org. Such adjustments as the following can be completed:

Do your part, be water smart:

-Two (2) day per week watering due to  Drought:

Monday and Friday –  North of Santa Monica Blvd

Tuesday and Saturday -South of Santa Monica Blvd

-No watering (sprinklers or hose) after 9 a.m. or before 6 p.m.

-Approximately 8 minutes for overhead sprinklers and 15-20 for drip irrigation

-Turn OFF your irrigation system before a rain event. It can be left Off for long periods if there’s significant rainfall.

-Supplemental watering for trees allowed

-Violations will be issued for non-compliance

-30 percent citywide water reduction goal

-Find and fix leaks immediately

Water leaks are caused by running toilets. One toilet can run up to 200 gallons an hour. Other common continuous water flow issues are auto fills in pools or fountains, irrigation system issues and/or broken pipes.  Many leaks are not visible and can waste up to 5,000 gallons per day, the city of BH reports on its website.

For residents with continuous water flow issue at their property, check out the City’s Leak Flyer for more information. To see if there is a leak or are over watering one’s landscape – sign up for the City’s free Water Tracker program.

For more details call Beverly Hills Public Works Customer Service at 310-285-2467 or email askpw@beverlyhills.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced that the Doggy Daze event will return to Roxbury Park’s Wiggly Field on Sunday, November 5. The event will run from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is celebrating 13 years.

The event will include a pet parade, pet talent contest, pet adoption, pet agility demonstrations, 35 pet-related vendors and food trucks. The event is open to the public and will be located at 471 S. Roxbury Drive.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on Monday, October 16 that it launched a new website survey as part of the first phase of its redesign and is seeking community input regarding usability, content and design.

After a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) process, the city selected Civic Plus as its website vendor.

The survey questions will address how users search for information, feedback surrounding website design elements that aid in the overall look and feel and what content should be prioritized on its pages.

The Website Steering Committee consists of Councilmembers John Mirisch and Lili Bosse.  “The City Website Steering Committee will represent a diverse group of community stakeholders and City staff to help provide input on design and functionality. The re-design project is expected to be complete in the Spring of 2024,” the city of BH stated on its website.

To access the survey and to learn about the website design project, visit beverlyhills.org/websiteredesign. The survey can be completed at the following link: City Website Design Survey (beverlyhills.org).

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills selected veteran municipal employee Michael Forbes as its next Director of Community Development, via an announcement on Monday, October 9. As Director, he will oversee the divisions of Planning, Development Services, Community Preservation, Rent Stabilization and Special Events and Filming.  Forbes currently serves as Planning Director for the City of Westlake Village.

“I am thrilled to welcome Michael to Beverly Hills,” said City Manager Nancy Hunt-Coffey.  “His impressive and diverse leadership experience at cities across Southern California has prepared him well for the busy work ahead and we look forward to him joining our team later this month.”

The city indicated in a press release that Forbes has 25 years in Planning and worked for the cities of Burbank, Glendora, Thousand Oaks and served for 5 years as the Community Development Director of Temple City.

“I am deeply grateful for this incredible opportunity,” said Forbes. “The Community Development Department in Beverly Hills has an outstanding reputation and I look forward to working with the dedicated team as we continue to serve this world-class community.”

Forbes earned his bachelor’s degree in Geography from UCLA and is certified by the American Institute of Certified Planners.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Fall Beverly Hills Art Show will be held in Beverly Gardens Park on Saturday, October 21 and Sunday, October 22.

The city reported on its website that four garden blocks in the center of Beverly Hills will have over 230 artists from throughout California and from 12 other states, as well as the Countries of Ukraine, Thailand, and England will be represented.

This free show features art from around the world who showcase their work in painting, sculpture, watercolor, photography, mixed media, ceramics, glass, jewelry, drawing and printmaking.

All of the fine arts and crafts are original, ranging from the traditional to the very contemporary, and are represented by the artists themselves.

A Wine and Beer Garden with live music, demonstrating artists, children’s activities, gourmet food trucks and several community exhibits will be at the event as well. For musicians who want to be considered to perform their music, they must complete an application.

Show hours in the Fall are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free and is expected to take place rain or shine.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On October 7, Liz Montgomery, a friend of Camela Leierth-Segura, 48, announced that she has been found. Montgomery posted the following message on Instagram.

“I wanted to share that Camela has been found, and she is safe.  We would like to thank everyone who looked for her and shared her story, and to the Beverly Hills Police Department for doing an incredible job finding her.  Her family has asked for privacy, and I can’t share any of the details, but she is safe now.”

Leierth-Segura was reported missing after being evicted from her Beverly Hills apartment and had not been seen since June 30.

The Swedish songwriter, Leierth-Segura wrote songs for singer Kateryn Elizabeth Hudson, known professionally as Katy Perry.

Camela Leierth-Segura songs were said to have a 90s sound that were popular with a teen audience.  She wrote over a dozen songs including, “Walking on Air.”

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on its website that drivers should expect modifications to Wilshire Boulevard starting Monday, October 16 as construction on the One Beverly Hills residential and hotel development project begins.

Since 2022, site preparation activities have been underway for the project, which will include a mix of luxury residences, hotel rooms, and landscaped gardens across the site’s 17.5 acres. It is slated to open in 2027. The project site sits adjacent to the Beverly Hilton and Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills near the intersection of North Santa Monica Boulevard and Wilshire Boulevard.

Starting October 16 and running through March 2024, the project’s construction team will be working to relocate utility lines along Wilshire Boulevard. The work will take place in the right-of-way and will consist of trenching and pipe installation from the western city limit to Whittier Drive.

To complete the work, existing landscaped medians and gateway monument signs along Wilshire Boulevard will be temporarily removed. The six Date Palm trees located in the median will be preserved and stored for future re-planting.

During the course of the construction, intermittent lane closures will occur in a phased approach. The first phase will consist of a one-lane closure in each direction along Wilshire Boulevard to Trenton Drive Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

The second phase will involve longer-term closures of two lanes on Wilshire Boulevard (alternating between east and westbound directions) and eastbound left turn restrictions at Whittier Drive and Trenton Drive. The lane closures during this phase will be continuous, and active work will transpire Monday through Saturday from 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. For more details about project construction, visit obhconstructionhelpline.com.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills will host a community meeting on Monday, October 16 at 10 a.m. in City Hall’s Municipal Gallery to inform tenants, landlords, contractors and other members of the public of important changes related to rental properties in Beverly Hills.

The city indicated in a news release that topics to be discussed will include an updated Means and Method Plan form and the return to the annual allowable rent increase calculations established in the Municipal Code for Chapters 5 and 6.

The meeting will talk about upcoming changes that may take place in the near future, such as topics of discussion by the Rent Stabilization Commission and prospective Division-wide projects.

“It’s important that we continue to educate our community with the latest information that could make a difference to those who rent, manage rentals or own rental properties,” said Nestor Otazu, Deputy Director of Rent Stabilization. “We invite our community to take part in this meeting by asking questions and getting the answers they need so that they can utilize resources that are available.”

Additional details can be found at beverlyhills.org/bhrent. The meeting can be viewed on BHTV Channel 10 and could be streamed online at beverlyhills.org/live. The meeting will also be accessible remotely via Zoom. The access information for the meeting is listed below:

Access link: https://beverlyhills-org.zoom.us/my/community

Passcode: 90210

Phone Access: (310) 285-1020

The Rent Stabilization Division administers and enforces the City’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance (RSO). All multifamily rental properties, two or more residential units, are subject to the RSO unless expressly exempted by BHMC§§ 4-5-102 or 4-6-1. To report a violation of the RSO, please call Rent Stabilization Division at (310) 285-1031.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On September 23, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden, made an appearance at the private home of TV executive, founder of Children Uniting Nations and President of Cinémoi USA, Daphna Ziman, located at 9364 Beverly Crest Drive in Beverly Hills.

While speaking to a crowd of approximately 45 people, the First Lady campaigned for a second term for her husband, Joe Biden, for President in 2024.

In her speech she reminded supporters that it was her husband who appointed Ketanji Brown Jackson as an Associate Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. She also indicated that it was her husband that worked to have prescription drug prices lowered with “Big Pharma.”

Dr. Biden was telling the crowd about his achievements in climate change, and how the
American people should re-elect her husband so he can “finish the job.”

In her travels, FLOTUS spoke at campaign fundraising events in Seattle Washington, and traveled San Diego where she was greeted by San Diego Mayor, Todd Gloria at San Diego International Airport. She then flew from San Diego to Hollywood Burbank Airport. The Beverly Hills stop was scheduled just ahead of the upcoming Republican Presidential debate.

Jill Biden spoke highly of her husband, saying, “he has an unshakable hope in the future of our country. Anyone can tell you what they want to do, but Joe can tell what he’s done.”

She attempted a jab at former President Donald Trump in her speeches on the campaign trail saying in part, “We know what’s in store if the extreme MAGA Republicans return to power. The choice in this election could not be more clear.”

President Biden has not traveled to California for a campaign event. Multiple news sources suggest Biden may be avoiding the area during a time of unrest with labor unions, and motel strikes.

The California Republican Party (CAGOP) made the following statement about the upcoming 2nd GOP Presidential Debate, September 29-October 1st at the Anaheim Marriot Hotel.

“All eyes will be on California next week as our state hosts the 2nd GOP Presidential Debate in my hometown of Simi Valley and on the hallowed grounds of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library. Following this historic debate, the momentum will shift to the largest California Republican Party Convention in our history, where four presidential candidates, including President Donald J. Trump, Governor Ron DeSantis, Senator Tim Scott, and Vivek Ramaswamy, will take the stage. With 169 delegates up for grabs – the most of any state, California will play a pivotal role in deciding our Party’s nominee.

I can’t wait to hear from all the candidates and why they would be the best person to take on and beat Joe Biden or whomever the Democrat nominee may be in 2024.” — CAGOP Chairwoman Jessica Millan Patterson

The end of the last fundraising quarter for any party to qualify for the 2024 Presidential election is September 30th.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On September 18, the Beverly Hills City Council announced its intention to uphold a law that became effective on October 6, 2004, restricting the sale or possession of Silly String during Halloween.

Beverly Hills Mayor, Julian Gold told NBC that, “This is not driven by our theoretic concerns. This is driven by our experience. There are several events, maybe more than just several, in front of Witches house related to the use of shaving cream and silly string and Nair [hair removal product] where members of the public and kids in particular, got injured.”

According to American Legal Publishing, Under Public Hazards Article 6 of Municipal Code Section 11.01 9a) “No Person shall possess, use, sell or distribute Silly String at, within or upon any public or private property that is either within public view or accessible to the public, including, but not limited to, public or private streets, sidewalks.”

In Section 56.02 Silly String Hollywood Division during Halloween describes Silly String as follows:

“Silly String shall mean any putty-like substance that is shot or expelled in the form of string from an aerosol can or other pressurized device, regardless of whether it is sold under the name ‘Silly String’ or any other name.”

The area this law pertains to is called the “Hollywood Division.” As stated, the law says,

“Hollywood Division shall mean the area defined by the Los Angeles Police Department as the Hollywood Division, the geographical boundaries of which include all of that portion of Los Angeles City bounded and described as follows: Beginning at the point of intersection of Beverly Boulevard and Normandie Avenue, and proceeding northerly along Normandie Avenue to Franklin Avenue, and proceeding westerly along Franklin Avenue to Western Avenue, and proceeding northerly along Western Avenue to Fern Dell Drive, and continuing northerly along Fern Dell Drive to its terminus, and proceeding due north through Griffith Park to Forest Lawn Drive at its intersection with Zoo Drive, and proceeding westerly and southwesterly along Forest Lawn Drive to Barham Boulevard, and proceeding southerly along Barham Boulevard to United States Highway 101, and proceeding southeasterly along U.S. Highway 101 to Mulholland Drive, and proceeding westerly along the various curves and courses of Mulholland Drive to the Crest of Ridge, and proceeding southerly following the Los Angeles City line along the eastern border of the Trousdale Estates area of the City of Beverly Hills to the northeast corner of the City of West Hollywood, and proceeding easterly following the Los Angeles City line bordering along its various curves and courses of the northern border of the City of West Hollywood to the eastern border of the City of West Hollywood that is to the east of La Brea Avenue, and proceeding southerly along the Los Angeles City line to Romaine Street, and proceeding westerly following the Los Angeles City line along its various curves and courses to the intersection of Romaine Street and La Cienega Boulevard, and proceeding southerly following the Los Angeles City line along its various curves and courses to Beverly Boulevard, and proceeding easterly along Beverly Boulevard to La Brea Avenue, and proceeding northerly along La Brea Avenue to Willoughby Avenue, and proceeding easterly along Willoughby Avenue to Hudson Avenue, and proceeding southerly along Hudson Avenue to Melrose Avenue, and proceeding easterly along Melrose Avenue to Gower Street, and proceeding southerly along Gower Street to Beverly Boulevard, and proceeding easterly along Beverly Boulevard to Normandie Avenue.”

The verbiage of the law states that, “Halloween, shall mean the 36-hour period from 12:00 a.m. on October 31st to November 1st of each year.”

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On September 13, the Beverly Hills City Council voted to move forward with West Hollywood Community Housing Corporation (WHCHC), which is a nonprofit affordable housing developer, to start the negotiation process to possibly develop a 100 percent affordable senior housing project on a city-owned site located at 9268-9298 W. 3rd Street.

As a result of the Exclusive Negotiation Agreement (ENA) approved by the BH City Council, new plans and drawings will be given to the public during community outreach plans in the coming months.

“The Beverly Hills City Council has always been committed to providing affordable housing for our residents,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Julian Gold. “Sometimes it takes time to put these projects together and I am pleased we are able to move forward. While this is the first step, the Council is dedicated to providing more housing options for our community in the future.”

Back in April 2022, Beverly Hills solicited qualifications and various proposals for a project on a Beverly Hills owned site. They received 27 conceptual proposals and after nearly a year of evaluation the Beverly Hills City Council subcommittee recommended the project site and developer, WHCHC, to be chosen.

The conceptual proposal submitted by WHCHC calls for 252 one-bedroom units with affordability requirements. The building is expected to be six stories high with an additional usable rooftop level along with two levels of subterranean parking.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Thursday, September 14, the Beverly Hills Police Department indicated in a press release that multiple drivers were cited during their September 8 DUI checkpoint.

Officers held the checkpoint on N. Santa Monica Blvd and Crescent Drive from 7 p.m. to 2 a.m. DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on reported incidents of impaired driving-related crashes.

A total of 1,450 vehicles passed through the checkpoint and 260 were screened. Officers cited five drivers for operating a vehicle without a license. One person was arrested for driving with a suspended license and had an outstanding DUI warrant.

According to the police department, the primary purpose of DUI checkpoints is to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off the roads. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that rates of impaired driving were significantly lower in states that conducted sobriety checkpoints. Studies have also consistently found sobriety checkpoints to be effective in reducing crashes and crash fatalities.

Funding for this checkpoint was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

Beverly Hills will have another DUI checkpoint in December, but a specific date has yet to be determined.

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—On September 11, National Civil Rights Lawyer for Justice, Ben Crump opened a $500 million lawsuit against the City of Beverly Hills for racial profiling. Crump alleges that the Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) officers were racially discriminatory toward members of the black community in and near Beverly Hills between 2019-2021.

The following information came directly from Crump’s updated press release that may be found on his webpage.

“Nationally renowned civil rights and personal injury attorney Ben Crump and co-counsel Bradley C. Gage will hold a press conference on September 11 to provide an update on developments in a class action lawsuit against the City of Beverly Hills and Captain Scott Dowling for Beverly Hills Police Department’s targeting of people of color via a task force dubbed “Operation Safe Street” and “Rodeo Drive Task Force.” Attorneys will also discuss new evidence in the case.

From August 2019 to August 2021, 1,088 black people were arrested by the Beverly Hills Police Department but only two have resulted in convictions. Ninety percent of people arrested by the Rodeo Drive Task Force were black even though only 1.5% of the Beverly Hills population is black. The legal team is announcing a $500 million demand.”

Canyon News reached out to the BHPD for more information. BHPD Lieutenant Reginald Evans responded with the following press release by Public Information Lauren Santillana.

“Statement in Response to Press Conference Regarding the Case of Jasmine Williams, et al. v. City of Beverly Hills, et al.

The following is a statement from the City of Beverly Hills regarding today’s press conference held by attorneys Benjamin Crump and Bradley Gage related to ongoing litigation:

The City of Beverly Hills is an international destination that always welcomes visitors from across the country and around the world.

The role of the Beverly Hills Police Department is to enforce the law, regardless of race.

The statistics presented referencing the number of convictions is a mischaracterization of the evidence in this case. In addition, the 1,088 arrests referenced includes people cited and released, not just custodial arrests.

The city denies and will continue to strongly defend itself against these allegations.”
By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On September 29, the California GOP (CAGOP) will sponsor California 2023 Fall Convention and will welcome featured speaker, and leader of the Republican party, former President, Donald J. Trump. He is to speak on the first night of the convention at the Anaheim Marriott, 700 West Convention Way, in Anaheim to be held through October 1.

Tickets are being sold by CAGOP for a donation of $600 or two tickets for $1,200. Supporters may also be entered in a drawing to win a flight, hotel stay, and a photo opportunity with Donald Trump.

Ron DeSantis (R-FL), Tim Scott (R-FL), and Vivek Ramaswamy will also be featured speakers at the convention. Trump is leading both Republicans and Democrats in the polls. Ron DeSantis and Vivek Ramaswamy are very close in polling numbers.

Ballotpedia shares bipartisan campaign fundraising results with former President Donald J. Trump outraising all other candidates with $32,164,175 in receipts and $85,386 in contributions. 

Ron DeSantis comes in second with $20,111,729 in receipts and $19,743,903 in contributions, Joe Biden’s fundraising efforts brought in $19,867,069 in receipts and $8,667,324 in contributions ahead of Republican, Vivek Ramaswamy with $19,152,444 in receipts and $1,582,648 in contributions.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On August 17 at 4:58 p.m. Lawyer and Cultural Heritage Commissioner, Craig Corman filed his letter(s) of intent to run for Beverly Hills City Council in 2024. Corman, who was born to parents of Beverly Hills High School graduates, is a lifelong member of the city. He is a BHHS graduate from 1977. He and his wife, Karen raised their children in the city also. He made the following statement in a September 2, article in the Beverly Hills Courier announcing his run:

“Planning Commission, more than the other commissions, has to make a lot of substantive decisions that can be controversial. I think my record on the Planning Commission shows that I listened to all sides and I try to make informed decisions.”

Members of the current BH City Council include: Mayor Julian A. Gold, Vice Mayor Lester Friedman, Lili Bosse, John A. Mirisch and Sharona R Nazarian PsyD.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On August 30, the Beverly Hills Police Department arrested two individuals detained by store security in the 9600 block of Wilshire Boulevard after stealing large quantities of clothing. A third suspect initially fled the scene, but was cornered by police and taken into custody.

Reports indicate that at least two unidentified individuals entered one of the clothing stores at approximately 6:30 p.m., taking a large amount of clothing and were confronted by store security who called authorities.

Two 17 year-olds, and one 15 year-old were taken into custody. Their identities cannot be released due to their age.

The BHPD, the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department and the Los Angeles Police Department all responded to the call.

Anyone with more details on the case is asked to call BHPD Watch Commander at 310-285-2125 or to use the BHPD alert system at beverlyhills.org/BHPD alert or sign up by texting BHPDALERT to 888-777.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills will be hosting a Day of Wellness on Sunday, September 10 at the Roxbury Park Community Center from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will include activities ranging from seminars to meditation circles, group exercise classes, yoga for all ages and stress reduction techniques.

The event is free to the public and all ages are welcome. Participants in attendance are asked to bring their water bottles and mats if they plan to participate in yoga. The opening ceremony will last from 10 a.m. to 10:20 a.m. with the Connecting Community Through Mindful Movement with Autumn Scoggan of Clearly You and Chris Pan of Voice Movement. They will spend 15 minutes guiding community members through mindful movement to help begin the day with inner peace and a positive mindset.

Thai Mex and Energy Smoothie Bar food trucks will be at the event. Food and Beverage Booths at the event include: Bahamii Organic Date & Nut Energy Bites, Emotional Utility Beverage, Kreation, Marquis, MatchaKo, Suja Organic and Unisoy.

There will be limited parking on site, but additional parking at Beverly Hills High School located at 241 S. Moreno Drive (Entrance off S. Moreno Drive and Durant Drive). Shuttles will run from Roxbury Park and Beverly Hills High School every 10 minutes beginning at 9:30 a.m. until 4 p.m. For a complete breakdown of the events visiting: https://www.beverlyhills.org/departments/communityservices/humanservicesdivision/programsandevents/beverlyhillsdayofwellness/.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills will be hosting a free drive-thru shredding and compost event on Sunday, October 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event will transpire at Civic Center Drive and 3rd Street. The event will end at 1 p.m. or whenever the truck is full, whichever transpires first.

Attendees are asked to stay in their vehicles during the event, and wait for instructions from staff. The shredding is for drop off only, first come first served. Staff will NOT open vehicle doors or enter the vehicle cabin. The stage parking line will start at Burton Way in front of the courthouse and the corner of Civic Center Dr. Participants can exit via the alley on Foothill Road.

Shredding will take place on the spot and content can be placed in boxes. Each individual will be allowed to bring 50 pounds per person.

No computer hard drives will be accepted, only paper documents. The company completing the shredding is Shred Source and they are AAA certified by NAID.

Items not accepted during the event include:

The following will NOT ACCEPTED:

-Hard drives

-Electronic waste (printers, batteries, computers, cell phones, tablets, etc.)

-Books

-3 ring binders

-Cardboard

-X-rays

-CD’s

-Tapes (VHS, DLT, etc.)

Paper clips, binding clips, rubber bands, staples, hanging folders, clasp folders and envelopes can go through the shredder, these items do not need to be removed from the paper.

For additional details on the event contact: Public Works (310) 285-2467, visit BEVERLYHILLS.ORG/SHRED or email AskPW@Beverlyhills.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) Traffic Bureau will conduct a sobriety and driver’s license checkpoint on Friday, September 8, in the area of North Santa Monica Blvd. and Crescent Drive. The checkpoint will be operational from approximately 7 p.m. and conclude at approximately 2 a.m. The BHPD indicated in a news release that all traffic will pass through the checkpoint.

Motorists will be stopped and contacted by uniformed officers, who will check for alcohol and/or drug-impaired drivers. Officers will check to ensure all drivers have a valid driver’s license.

DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on data showing incidents of impaired driving-related crashes.

The purpose of DUI checkpoints is to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off the road.

“Impaired drivers put others on the road at significant risk,” Chief Mark G. Stainbrook said. “Any prevention measures that reduce the number of impaired drivers on our roads significantly improve traffic safety.”

Drivers charged with a first-time DUI face an average of $13,500 in fines and penalties and a suspended license. Funding for impaired driving enforcement operations is provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills indicated in a press release that the Beverly Hills Fire Department (BHFD) will see the return of its Empowerment Camp on October 14 and October 15. The event will give 9th thru 12th graders the chance to learn hands-on firefighting exercises, training and leadership opportunities

“Our Beverly Hills Fire Department and the City of Beverly Hills is committed to uplifting and empowering this next generation of great leaders,” said Mayor Dr. Gold. “We want to inspire all young people in their journey of becoming firefighters.”

The camp will be held in-person at the Fire Department at 445 N Rexford Dr. Women who are 18 and older and actively pursuing a career in firefighting are asked to apply as a mentor instructor.

“We are fortunate to have had so many curious young adults participate in our hands-on training, getting a close glimpse of what our women and men do to protect our community,” said BH Fire Chief Greg Barton. “We look forward to welcoming the class of 2023!”

“We had such a great turnout last year,” said Melissa Hillis, BHFD Fire Engineer. “The teens really pushed themselves and made us all proud. Our department is a huge proponent of improving gender diversity and increasing community ties, so we’re welcoming all curious minds this year who are aligned in our mission.”

Registration for residents will start Friday, September 1. and is free. Registration will remain open until the camp is filled. To register, visit beverlyhills.org/empowermentcamp or for questions email FiredUp@beverlyhills.org.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Sunday, August 27, the Beverly Hills Police Department announced that three suspects were arrested and detained in the grand theft investigation that occurred in the 400 block of Rodeo Drive. The names of all of those in custody for the aforementioned crimes have not been released at this time.

Canyon News reached out to the police to find out more about the arrest but did not hear back in time for print.

On August 24, the Los Angeles Police Department notified the public of additional thefts in the area. According to the LAPD website, ORCTF made 11 arrests in four of the nine theft cases currently being invested by the newly Organized Retail Crime Taskforce (ORTC) which includes LAPD, Glendale Police Department, Beverly Hills Police Department, California Highway Patrol, along with the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office.

The following locations suffered at the hands of the suspects taken into custody by the ORTC.

The Versace Store (Beverly Center), located at 8500 Beverly Boulevard in Los Angeles, the Warehouse Shoe Store at 6251 York Boulevard in Highland Park, the Nordstrom store in the Topanga Mall located at 6600 Topanga Canyon Boulevard in Canoga Park, and the Yves Saint Laurent (The American Brand) located at 889 American Way in Glendale.

The ORTC encourages the public to get involved and report any information known on other retail thefts that you may know about in the area by calling the ORCTF, Detective Arnold at (818)374-9420.

During non-business hours or on the weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers on 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477).

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—Jobson Marangoni De Castro, 37, was arrested Monday, August 21, for allegedly stealing more than $1.8 million in jewelry, clothing and accessories from Brazilian guests that were staying at The Peninsula Beverly Hills on May 10. He was found at the Los Angeles International Airport and charged with interstate transportation of stolen property. De Castro is currently being held with a bond as of Wednesday, August 23.

On the day the suitcases were taken, De Castro was said to have traveled to The Peninsula Beverly Hills via Uber. When he arrived at the destination, he convinced a hotel employee to give him a key to the victims’ room. When he walked into the room, he found one of the guests asleep and the other was away. De Castro left the room and traveled back and forth to the hotel using Uber, according to prosecutors.

On the previous day, he was also reported to have eaten at the hotel bar and charged his meal to the room where the victims were staying.

When the victims both left their room to have dinner, De Castro entered the room again and was said to have stolen six suitcases from the two guests who were in Beverly Hills for a fashion event. The items stolen included five Tumi suitcases worth about $5,000; a $1,000 Rimowa carry-on bag; a Flavia Vetorasso Diamond necklace worth $200,000; a Chopard L’Heure du Diamant watch worth $89,400; a white Chanel dress worth $14,000, and a combination of other clothing items and shoes worth around $285,000.

When the couple returned later that evening they discovered that their belongings were missing and notified hotel staff who reported the crime to law enforcement.

The items found in the suitcases were allegedly for sale. On May 17, De Castro, using the alias “Jobs Marangoni,” traveled to Miami and messaged a potential buyer on Instagram who later wired him $50,000 for the jewelry and a luxury watch.

According to the DOJ, De Castro told the buyer that he had papers for the items because he found them in a box who belonged to his mother. He delivered the items to the buyer’s store which was in Miami.

Investigators were able to track De Castro’s movements the day the crimes transpired using GPS data from his Uber trips and one of the suitcases still had two AirTags inside.

Officials discovered during their investigation that De Castro was currently being investigated for another theft that occurred at the Beverly Wilshire Hotel.

If convicted, De Castro would face a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison. The FBI and BHPD are leading this investigation.

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—The city will be celebrating the sixth annual NEXT NIGHT Street Festival on Saturday, September 23 from 4 p.m. thru 9 p.m. The event will be held on the 200 block of South Beverly Drive with land live music and family entertainment.

The city indicated on its website that the event is free and is a partnership with the Next BH Committee and will include food trucks, art, games, attractions and a beer and wine garden. Businesses along South Beverly Drive will provide experiences and promotions throughout the evening.

“Thank you to the Next Beverly Hills Committee for organizing another spectacular NEXT NIGHT out. I love the fact that our next generation leaders have created an event for the entire community – young, older and everything in-between,” said Mayor Julian Gold. “This is an opportunity for all of us to come to South Beverly Drive to celebrate our community. We look forward to seeing everyone there.”

The Legendary Wailers featuring Junior Marvin will be the headliner performing Bob Marley hits:  “One Love,” “Three Little Birds,” “No Woman No Cry,” “Get Up Stand Up,” “Is This Love,” and more.

“NEXT NIGHT is a perfect way for residents of all ages to reconnect and get involved with the community,” said Next Beverly Hills Committee Chair Noah Etessami. “We want everyone to come out and enjoy the music and what Beverly Hills has to offer!”

DJ Keybo will control the music with special performances by the Beverly Hills High School Madrigals, Drum Line, Dance Team and Theatrical Students.

“Last year, over 5,000 community members showed up and had a blast, and this year we have added even more to enjoy – it’s not to be missed!” said NEXT NIGHT Chair Tiffany Davis. “We hope everyone will celebrate the end of summer with top entertainment, great food, activities for all ages, and great deals from local merchants.”

There will be a full street closure between Charleville Drive and Gregory Way from 6 p.m. on Friday, September 22 and end at 4 a.m. on Sunday, September 24.

For a full list of activities and more information visit beverlyhills.org/NEXTNIGHT.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department announced on Tuesday, August 22 that they arrested a suspect connected to a murder.

On July 27, 2023, at approximately 5 p.m., officers were alerted by an ALPR notification of a vehicle in Beverly Hills connected to a Los Angeles murder investigation with the suspects described as armed and dangerous.

BHPD Real Time Watch Center (RTWC) personnel located the wanted vehicle and directed Patrol officers to its location. A traffic stop was initiated, and a vehicle pursuit ensued as the suspect vehicle fled. The driver of the vehicle lost control and collided into a parked vehicle.

The suspect exited the vehicle and ran on foot while armed with a gun. The suspect discarded the handgun while being chased on foot, but police officers caught up to the suspect and took him into custody without using force. Police arrested Angel Joel Rodriguez, 21, of Van Nuys.

The investigation was turned over to the Los Angeles Police Department for completion.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department announced on Tuesday, August 22 that they arrested a suspect connected to a murder.

On July 27, 2023, at approximately 5 p.m., officers were alerted by an ALPR notification of a vehicle in Beverly Hills connected to a Los Angeles murder investigation with the suspects described as armed and dangerous.

BHPD Real Time Watch Center (RTWC) personnel located the wanted vehicle and directed Patrol officers to its location. A traffic stop was initiated, and a vehicle pursuit ensued as the suspect vehicle fled. The driver of the vehicle lost control and collided into a parked vehicle.

The suspect exited the vehicle and ran on foot while armed with a gun. The suspect discarded the handgun while being chased on foot, but police officers caught up to the suspect and took him into custody without using force. Police arrested Angel Joel Rodriguez, 21, of Van Nuys.

The investigation was turned over to the Los Angeles Police Department for completion.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills will host its annual Household Hazardous Waste & E-Waste Roundup on September 30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at West Third Street, between Foothill Road and Civic Center Drive. The event is open to all residents of Los Angeles County.

Hazardous Waste Collection Events, operated by the County and Sanitation Districts, are one-day, drive-through collection events where residents are invited to drive to a specific location to drop off their household hazardous waste and electronic waste (e-waste). There is a limit of 15 gallons or 125 pounds of hazardous waste per trip.

For a complete listing of what you can and cannot bring or information on events, contact:

1 (888) CLEAN-LA or visit www.888CleanLA.com, or

1 (800) 238-0172 or visit www.lacsd.org

Toxic chemicals typically found in a household:

-Oven cleaner

-Pool supplies

-Used motor oil

-Oil paint products

Participants are warned to not place unused items or other toxic chemicals into any container.  Only empty toxic containers (with lids removed) should be placed in the trash.

To properly and safely dispose of hazardous waste, call the Los Angeles County Hazardous Waste Roundup Hotline: (800) 552-5218 or the city of Los Angeles (800) 98-TOXIC or attend a county sponsored round-up.

Anyone searching for additional details can contact the Public Works Customer Service at (310) 285-2467.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, August 15, news that the DuPont Clinic, all trimester abortion clinic that was to open its doors in Fall 2023, at 8920 Wilshire Blvd Suite 635, in Beverly Hills had their lease canceled.

The Dupont Clinic plans were foiled when Tasha Baker, along with the support of the Survivors of the Abortion Holocaust, and other pro-lifers, hired lawyers to fight the clinics opening. Dupont’s attorney shared her desire to hold onto Beverly Hills heritage as a refuge for the innocent and the oppressed.

When Baker learned that Dupont’s lease would be canceled, she shared the following statement with Life News: 

“I am grateful to God for this victory for innocent life. Mere weeks before barbaric, late-term abortions were set to begin, California’s first elective third-trimester clinic has been defeated.”

On their website Dupont openly offers abortion on demand which was what was in the original verbiage of Roe v. Wade in the Supreme Court’s decision in January 1973, to allow abortion, “At any time for any reason.”

Dupont, based out of Washington DC, openly promotes abortion on demand up to 31 weeks and 6 days gestation. This quote came directly from the Dupont webpage:

“If you are farther than 26 weeks into your pregnancy, we can still see you, regardless of your medical history, background, or fetal indications. We do not require any “reason” to be seen here – if you would like to terminate your pregnancy, we support you in that decision.” – Dupont Clinic

Some people including scientists believe that the infant in the womb is capable of feeling pain once the heartbeat is detected, which is anywhere from 18-22 days after conception.

The following statement came directly from the National Institute of Health (NIH), Library of Health website: 

“The controversy regarding fetal pain is complicated. Relevant factors include neuroanatomical development, consciousness, and physiologic, behavioral, and hormonal responses, as well as medical, ethical, and legal considerations. The onset of fetal pain capacity plays a vital role in identifying ethical issues surrounding painful procedures involving the fetus, such as fetal surgery, abortion, and feticide. Defining the time frame during which fetal pain capacity develops must first be addressed. Current neuroscientific evidence indicates that the onset of fetal pain perception is possible during the first trimester.”

This brought on, the Pain-Capable Heartbeat Protection Act that paved the way to the overturning of Roe v. Wade.

Following the overturning of Roe v. Wade, Governor Gavin Newsom publicly announced his plan to make California an abortion sanctuary.

An anonymous source shared their personal story with Canyon News: 

“A baby boy was born in Birmingham, Alabama in 2008. His mother was approximately 22 weeks along. The baby weighed less than eight ounces, and he survived. His parents named him Max. He was born without any birth defects. As a matter of fact, his parents called him ‘Super Max,” as a toddler because no one would have ever believed this was the baby that entered the world at half a pound, at best. He is now a normal teenager.”

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The City of Beverly Hills filed a lawsuit against a union representing striking hotel workers on Tuesday, August 15, claiming that their protests have drawn noise complaints from nearby residents.

The suit which was filed at the Los Angeles Superior Court is seeking a court order to direct demonstrators from the Unite Here! Local 11 to limit their protests to 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Protestors are said to be using drums and bullhorns as early as 5:30 a.m. outside of the Beverly Hilton and Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills.

Residents have been reporting that they’ve been hearing screaming, shouting, and whistles in the area of Wilshire and Santa Monica Boulevards. BHPD have received reports and investigated. According to investigators, protesters refused to identify themselves expect for union representatives.

The union’s Co-President Kurt Petersen issued a statement Wednesday, August 16, regarding the lawsuit.

“It is beyond outrageous that the city of Beverly Hills is using its resources to stifle the First Amendment-protected protest activity of low-wage, immigrant workers,” the statement read. “These are workers who make its luxury hotels run and who are simply seeking a living wage. The city should be helping to lift them up, not attack them with baseless lawsuits.”

On July 24, City Manager Nancy Hunt-Coffey addressed another union leader from Unite Here! Local 11 named Sol and told her that the drums were disturbing residents. She asked that Sol and other union members delay their demonstrations until 8 a.m. and to stop using drums. “Yeah, yeah, yeah,” Sol responded.

On July 26, Capt. Giovanni Trejo of the BHPD went to the location where the protests were being held asking that one of the union representatives, Lorena Lopez, hold off on the noise before 8 a.m. According to the suit, “she indicated she would consider the request, but did not commit to complying.”

Later that day the police department responded to complaints from Beverly Hills staff and security who claimed that they were experiencing aggression from some of the protestors. Allegedly, the protesters broke through a barrier, injured a security guard, blew bullhorns in peoples ears, blocked traffic and screamed.

One Beverly Hills residents commented on social media shortly after the news of the lawsuit broke stating, “Residents are cry babies. Stay Strong Writers and SAG-AFTRA.”

George Vreeland Hill wrote his account of the protests in Beverly Hills on Facebook on July 25,” A lot of protesting going on in Beverly Hills. This one is at the Beverly Wilshire. There are others at the Waldorf and Beverly Hills Hilton. Probably other hotels as well. They are making a lot of noise. No contract, no peace? Try getting some sleep today.”

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—Musician Camela Leierth-Segura, 48, who co-wrote the Katy Perry song “Walking on Air” has been missing since June 29. Her friends and neighbors are still searching for her and her missing 19-year-old cat.

According to her friends, Leierth-Segura’s 2010 silver Ford Fusion was last seen in the middle of the night on June 29 in Beverly Hills. Her sister Liz Montgomery immediately filed a missing person report with the Beverly Hills Police department after she discovered no one in her social circle heard from her.

Leierth-Segura is originally from Sweden and moved to the United States at age 15. Much of her family still lives in the Scandinavian country today. According to her Imbd page she is described as “a storyteller and has used numerous mediums to showcase her artistry. She has been working as a professional in the entertainment industry since she was five years old, as a child actress and singer.” She is also a screenwriter and director who has directed an array of Off-Broadway theater, plays, live-performances and music-videos in New York City, Paris and London.

Leierth-Segura’s style as a screenwriter and director has been described as unique and she is able to illustrate her vision by drawing upon her life experiences.

Canyon News contacted a friend of Leierth-Segura’s for an interview but did not get back before print.

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—On Sunday, August 13th at 12 p.m., The Church of The Good Shepherd in Beverly Hills celebrated its 100th Anniversary. The church is located at 504 N. Roxbury Drive.

The Centennial Mass was officiated by the Most Reverend José H. Gomez, Archbishop of Los Angeles.

A reception was held in the parish hall adjacent to the Church in the courtyards.  Julian A. Gold M.D.  the Mayor of the City of Beverly Hills was in attendance.

Photo By Jacob Bentzinger Via Unsplash

Over the last 100 years, many notable stars have been known to attend Mass at Good Shepherd Parish including, but not limited to film stars Eva Gabor, Gary Cooper, Bing Crosby, and Rudolph Valentino, author Alfred Hitchcock, and former President John Fitzgerald Kennedy.

The Pastor, Rev. Edward Benioff, serves Good Shepherd Parish with the assistance of Rev. Colm O’ Ryan, Pastor Emeritus (Retired). Holy Mass is celebrated every day at Good Shepherd. Mass times are as follows:

Saturday Vigil Mass is at 5 p.m.

Sunday Masses are at 10 a.m., 12 p.m., and 2 p.m.

Monday-Friday daily Mass is at 12:05 p.m.

Wednesday evening Mass is celebrated at 6:30 p.m. followed by adoration from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m.

Confessions are heard outside in St. Mary’s Garden on Saturdays from 3-4 p.m.

Canyon News reached out to Mayor Gold and the BH City Council, and Good Shepherd Catholic Church. Christine Redlin responded with enclosed photos.

Photo Courtesy, Church of The Good Shepherd Julian A. Gold M.D. Mayor, City of Beverly Hills, speaks to full capacity (500) attendees and Clergy.

The following information came directly from the website of Good Shepherd Catholic Church.

“The parish was founded December 12, 1923, in a small nine-year-old suburban community that would, before long, be synonymous worldwide with the rich and famous.

In 1923 though, the Church of the Good Shepherd was merely one of 18 parishes founded that year in the newly established Diocese of Los Angeles San Diego: the busiest such year in diocesan history.”

Good Shepherd Parish now also has Good Shepherd Catholic School for K-8th grade.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—Music executive Clarence Avant, who has been coined by many in the industry as the ‘Black Godfather’ of music died at his Beverly Hills home on Sunday, August 13. Avant was surrounded by children, Nicole and Alexander, at the time of his passing. Nicole’s husband, Netflix co-CEO, Ted Sarandos was also at his side at the time of his death. A cause of death has not yet been disclosed.

“It is with a heavy heart that the Avant/Sarandos family announce the passing of Clarence Alexander Avant. Through his revolutionary business leadership, Clarence became affectionately known as ‘The Black Godfather’ in the world of music, entertainment, politics, and sports.” The joint statement was made by Clarence’s children Alexander and Nicole Avant, and Nicole’s husband, Ted Sarandos.

Clarence was born in North Carolina on February 25, 1931, and was the oldest of 8 siblings. He got his start in the music industry in the 1950s in New Jersey. He was mentored by music producer Joseph G. Glaser. Avant has worked with musicians like Sarah Vaughan, Kim Weston, Johnny Nash, Billy Woods and Tom Smith to name a few. He established Avant Garde Enterprises, Inc. in November 1962 and later worked with Venture Records Inc. in 1962 to help lure deals with Blacks and major record companies.

He founded Sussex Records in 1969, but it later folded in 1975 when the IRS seized and auctioned off the company’s assets. The company was featured in the 2012 Oscar-nominated “Searching for Sugarman” documentary that featured Detroit-born musician Sixto Rodriguez who died on August 8, 2023. Netflix released the film “The Black Godfather” in June 2019 documenting Clarence’s life story in the music industry.

His company purchased the first Black owned FM Radio station in Los Angeles in March, 1973. He served on the Board of Directors for the UCLA International Student Center and produced the 1973 documentary film “Save the Children” for Paramount Pictures. He was inducted in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2021.

Clarence’s wife, Jacqueline was murdered in 2021, after a burglar broke into their home in December 2021, and shot her. He was married to Jacqueline for 54 years. He earned a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame in 2016. He was honored with the President’s Merit Award during Clive Davis’s pre-Grammy ceremony in 2018.

Clive Davis posted on social media the following statement:

“Clarence Avant was truly one of a kind. His passing is a great loss of someone who is irreplaceable. Clarance’s extraordinary contribution to music and the barriers he broke throughout his career are unrivaled. He was the mentor to all Black executives in the music industry for decades, providing invaluable guidance and support while always standing up for equal rights. Clarence was humane and fair and inspired love and respect from all who knew him. I personally loved him and will miss him forever.”

“Clarence leaves behind a loving family and a sea of friends and associates that have changed the world and will continue to change the world for generations to come. The joy of his legacy eases the sorrow of our loss.,” the family statement added.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills is celebrating its first annual week-long Rodeo Drive Celebrates Fashion, which kicked off on Monday, August 7th. The event will run thru Sunday, August 13th.

The event will highlight the craftsmanship, uniqueness and variety of fashion on Rodeo Drive. The city of Beverly Hills indicated on its website that the Rodeo Drive Committee member boutiques, hotels and restaurants in the region will collaborate to invite customers and guests.

“This is a moment to raise a glass to Rodeo Drive! There is nothing comparable. The legendary street’s magic continues thanks to the exemplary fashion design and craftsmanship from the greatest fashion houses and brands in the world; the architect-designed boutique spaces, the spectacular window displays, exclusive artist collaborations and pop ups, and our unrivaled customer service,” said Rodeo Drive Committee President Kay Monica Rose. “With our new program Rodeo Drive Celebrates, Rodeo Drive Committee member boutiques and businesses who are committed to the advancement and preservation of the street and its unique community, have come together as neighbors. They will open their doors with invitations to customers, residents and visitors – local and international, to a series of special celebrations in honor of Rodeo Drive’s unique place in fashion.”

“As summer moves into full swing, we invite our visitors and community to see firsthand why Rodeo Drive is THE place to be for fashion; our merchants’ expert craftsmanship, their appreciation for fashion, as well as their unrivaled hospitality and customer service,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Julian Gold. “Rodeo Drive Celebrates Fashion is a great opportunity to visit our shops, stay in our hotels, and take advantage of the special offerings and personalized experiences.”

Rodeo Drive has been highlighted as a distinct destination of luxury, entertainment and fashion since the 1960s.

The opening of Giorgio Beverly Hills in 1961 by Fred Hayman, “the Godfather of Rodeo Drive,” followed shortly after by Aldo Gucci opening the first Gucci boutique, then Van Cleef & Arpels, a Vidal Sassoon salon and Bijan Pakzad’s “most expensive boutique in the world” cemented the foundation for one of the Rodeo Drive Committee’s early goals “to promote Rodeo Drive as America’s answer to the glamour of Rome’s Via Condotti, London’s New Bond Street and Paris’s Faubourg St-Honoré.”

Rodeo Drive Celebrates Fashion continues the street’s singular legacy as an international fashion destination with a variety of high-end retailers for consumers.

Join Rodeo Drive Celebrates Fashion

Auto Vault

Auto Vault invites you to enjoy fresh Paleta ice cream and an exclusive presentation of rare vehicles on the street from its private collection.

August 7th-12th, 12-2pm

Bulgari

Bulgari invites you to experience 75 years of the iconic Serpenti collection and a personalized jewelry styling session.

Bookings by appointment: Monday through Saturday 10-6pm and Sunday 12-5pm.

Brioni

Brioni invites you to preview the new Fall/Winter 2023 RTW and Bespoke fabric collections.

Appointments available to meet with the in-house tailor for a personalized fitting.

Cartier

Cartier invites you to celebrate fashion with jewelry wardrobing. Bespoke private appointments available all week and a special taste of the French Riviera on Saturday, August 12th, 2-5pm.

Frette

You are invited to discover the world of Frette and the presentation of the Fall / Winter 2023 collection:

An Homage to Moments of Dreaming.

Henry Jacques

Henry Jacques invites you to build the perfect perfume wardrobe to complement your lifestyle.

Receive a collection of Compartés chocolates reminiscent of its scents to accompany your purchase.

MCM

MCM invites you to celebrate Fashion; join them for cocktails, Dazzling Donuts, and a DJ set by Alysen James.

August 10th, 6-9pm

414 N. Rodeo Drive

RSVP at mcm.events@mcmworldwide.com

Moncler

Moncler invites you for Summer Aperitivos; drinks, light bites and a DJ set.

August 12th, 3-7pm

340 N. Rodeo Drive

RSVP at losangeles@moncler.com

Ralph Lauren

Ralph Lauren invites you to private styling appointments in its VIP Suite with champagne, refreshments and a preview of the new Pre-Fall Collections.

208 Rodeo Restaurant

208 Rodeo Restaurant invites you to enjoy its summer special featuring Lallier Brut Champagne and Kaluga Caviar.

To make a reservation call 310-275-2428.

The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel

The Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel invites you to ‘THEBlvd After Dark’ – their new evening summer series.

Join them for sounds by a live DJ, drink specials and late-night summer vibes.

August 12th from 9pm -12am

Two Rodeo Drive

Two Rodeo Drive invites you to vibe to the rich tones and powerhouse vocals of live bands:

Gold Standard and Renaissance!

August 10th-12th from 2-6pm

Zegna

Zegna invites you to its new location for drinks by the bar and an exclusive preview of upcoming collections.

August 10th-12th, 2-6pm

455 N Rodeo Drive

Participants include Amiri, Beverly Wilshire, A Four Seasons Hotel, Dior, Giorgio Armani, Loro Piana, and Mikimoto. The second annual, week-long program Rodeo Drive Celebrates Timepieces & Fine Jewelry will occur October 1st thru October 7th.

By Trevor

BEVERLY HILLS—On Saturday, August 5th, at approximately 2:49 p.m. the Beverly Hills Police Department responded to a call of an attempted burglary in progress. Reports indicated two individuals were attempting to break into a watch display using screwdrivers at Geary’s located at 351 N. Beverly Hills Drive.

Officers arrested both suspects matching the description of the assailants. Canyon News received a statement from Lt. Reginald Evans with the BHPD who stated:

“Circumstances: Officers were dispatched to a call of two suspects using a screwdriver to open a store window which displayed several Rolex watches. Officers listening to Live 911 self-dispatched and were quickly on scene. Utilizing the drone, Officers were directed to the suspects. Both suspects were arrested.”

At 3:18 p.m., Juan Diego Hernandez-Martinez, 25, of Rancho Cucamonga, was arrested and charged for commercial burglary. 

According to the Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department Inmate locator, Yogani Bibani Chitiva, 42, of West Covina was also arrested and is facing a similar charge as Martinez. Bail was set at $20,000.  Chitiva was released on August 6th on his own recognizance.

No further details on the incident are available.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—On August 1, at approximately, 5 p.m. a police officer near Wilshire Boulevard and N. Beverly Drive crashed into a dark colored Range Rover. First responders arrived on the scene.

The Citizen App reported additional units were called with officers working traffic in the area. No further information is available at this time.

The accident coincides with the timing of the BHPD National Night Out event introducing their K-9 officers Kai, Odin, Darco, Lobo, KOA, and Support K-9 Kami to the public.

The event occurred in the 400th block of N. Rexford Dr.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department indicated in a news release they would be participating in the National Night Out event on Tuesday, August 1, from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the 400 Block of N. Rexford Dr. near the Beverly Hills Library and Beverly Hills Fire Department.

For 2023, the police department will highlight the work

of K-9s with the BHPD and emphasize their role in keeping the community safe and secure.

National Night Out is a community-building campaign that fosters police-community partnerships and promotes neighborhood camaraderie.

The event details are as follows:

• K-9 Demonstration: 7 p.m.

The BHPD is inviting the community to join the event and witness the K-9 demonstration showcasing skills and abilities of police dogs.

National Night Out will feature displays from various BHPD departments, including the SWAT Team, Real Time Watch Center Drones, Mobile Command Center, BHFD, and various other departments in Beverly Hills. Food trucks, games, and family-friendly activities will be at the event.

Admission to National Night Out is free, and free parking will be available at the Civic Center Parking Garage after 5 p.m.

Attendees are asked to use the official hashtags #K90210 and #NNO90210 in their social media posts.

For more details and updates visit beverlyhills.org/NNO and follow on social media at beverlyhills.org/BHPDconnect.

By Trevor

WEST HOLLYWOOD—Amidst a high heat advisory, the City of West Hollywood will open the Cooling Center at Plummer Park from Saturday, July 22 through Wednesday, July 26. 

The Cooling Center will occupy the Plummer Park Community Center Senior Lounge, located at 7377 Santa Monica Boulevard. Free transportation to Plummer Park is provided by West Hollywood’s Cityline service, which operates Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. For additional information and a detailed route map, visit www.weho.org/cityline.

The Plummer Park Cooling Center hours of operation will vary:

Saturday, July 22: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Sunday, July 23: 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.

Monday, July 24: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Tuesday, July 25: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Wednesday, July 26: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

“Every year, children and pets suffer and die when left unattended in parked vehicles. On a 78-degree day, the temperature inside a parked vehicle can soar to 120 degrees in just minutes, and on a 90-degree day, the interior temperature can reach as high as 160 degrees in less than 10 minutes – even with windows cracked open,” the City said in a heat advisory. 

“Think twice before ever leaving a child or a pet in a parked vehicle, even for just a moment,” the City continued.

LA County also operates cooling center locations in West Hollywood, including the West Hollywood Library, located at 625 North San Vicente Boulevard, and the Will & Ariel Durant Branch Library, located at 7140 West Sunset Boulevard.

The West Hollywood Aquatics & Recreation Center, located at 8750 El Tovar Place, is available for community members to swim and escape the heat.

For additional tips on where and how to cool off in West Hollywood, visit the City’s Cooling Center webpage at www.weho.org/coolingcenters.

By Paige Strickland

BEVERLY HILLS—A robbery that occurred on Monday, July 17, resulted in the arrests of four suspects that are said to be connected to the crime.

At around 6:30 p.m. two people were robbed along the 600 block of North Doheny Drive near Santa Monica Boulevard. Two suspects who were armed demanded their watches then fled toward the City of West Hollywood.

When interviewing the two victims they gave detectives a description of the suspects getaway car.

By 10 p.m. BHPD officers identified the suspects getaway vehicle on Santa Monica Boulevard and Charleville Boulevards, between Wilshire and Century City. They conducted a traffic stop and arrested three men and one woman. Officers closed south Santa Monica Boulevard at Charleville Boulevard as they were conducting the arrest and they reopened it shortly after.

The four suspects were booked into the Beverly Hills Jail on armed robbery charges.

Personal possessions and weapons found in the vehicle were recovered. They are believed to have been used in the robbery.

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—Ivan Perez, 27, and Brenda Vega, 23, of Monterey Park were arrested in connection to a vehicle burglary in Beverly Hills that occurred on July 10, in an alley near the 9300 block of Wilshire Boulevard.

Perez was booked for burglary of a motor vehicle, assault with a deadly weapon, felony hit and run, possession of drug paraphernalia and evading officers. Investigators were not able to determine Perez’s city of residence.

Vega was booked for resisting officers and a felony warrant.

At around 5:39 p.m. officers responded to a call of a vehicle being vandalized. They determined that two individuals were attempting to commit a car burglary. When officers arrived on the scene, Perez and Vega entered a vehicle and attempted to drive away southbound in the alley.

A pursuit ensued and as they were fleeing, they sideswiped an oncoming police car in the alleyway before hitting another vehicle on Gregory Way that contained three people. The pair eventually stopped and exited the vehicle fleeing on foot. Shortly after both Perez and Vega were taken into custody.

Firefighters rescued the three people who were in the car on Gregory Way. They were said to have been a family and were treated at the scene before they were taken to a hospital to be treated for minor injuries.

Anyone with information that can help detectives assigned to this case is asked to call the BHPD at (310) 550-4951.

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—A 17-year-old was killed and two other victims were injured in a shooting that occurred near the Beverly Center in the early hours of Sunday, July 9.

At approximately 3:50 a.m., Police responded to a radio call of an ambulance shooting near the intersection of 3rd Street and Orlando Avenue, according to a statement released by the Los Angeles Police Department.

The first victim discovered, a 17-year-old male identified as Zackary Dickson-Hislop of Los Angeles, and was declared deceased at the scene. The two other male victims, ages 17 and 26, were transported to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center in stable condition.

Details on events leading up to the shooting have yet to be released. 

Detectives are seeking information on the suspect who has yet to be apprehended. He was last seen running southbound on Orlando Avenue from 3rd Street on foot.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Los Angeles Police Department’s West Bureau Homicide Detectives at 213-382-9470. Anonymous tips can be submitted by telephone at 1-800-TIPS (800-222-8477) or online at www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Paige Strickland

BEVERLY HILLS—On Saturday, July 2, the Beverly Hills Police Department (BHPD) lost one of their own. BHPD K-9 Officer Aedan passed away. The department gave tribute to the retired K-9 on the BHPD Twitter page.

“With a heavy heart, we bid farewell to our beloved retired K-9 Aedan, who passed away Saturday morning. A male Belgian Malinois, Aedan served faithfully alongside his K-9 handler for five years completing over 1,200 hours of training and assisting in numerous deployments.”

In a separate tweet, BHPD listed the K-9’s acts of service to the Department, and the community including 25 deployments with 20 suspect searches that led to “the apprehension of 5 suspects.”

In addition to BHPD, K-9 Officer Aedan assisted the Culver City and Santa Monica Police Departments.

BHPD noted that, “During a joint op with the [Drug Enforcement Agency] DEA, Aedan’s alert led to the seizure of narcotics worth over $500,000.

“From lending a helping paw to protecting our community, Aedan’s impact stretched far and wide. His legacy of service will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, dear Aedan.”— BHPD via Twitter.

Canyon News reached out to BHPD for a photo and spoke to Aedan’s handler, Patrol Sergeant, Tony Adams who shared the following statement, and the photo used in this article.

“K9 Aedan worked for 5 years from 2011 to 2016. When I was promoted, I was very fortunate that the city allowed Aedan to retire, and he lived until the age of 13 with me and my family. He will be missed.”

By Sharon

WEST HOLLYWOOD/BEVERLY HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department’s West Bureau Homicide Detectives are asking for the public’s help in identifying the suspect responsible for the death of a 17-year-old male and injuries to two other victims on Sunday, July 9.

The LAPD reported at 3:50 a.m., officers from the Wilshire Area responded to a call of an ambulance shooting at 3rd Street and Orlando Avenue. After arriving on the scene, officers found three victims who were shot. Victim 1, a 17-year-old male, was pronounced dead at the scene by Los Angeles Fire Department Personnel. Victim 2, a 17-year-old male, and Victim 3, a 26-year-old male, were taken to Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, by Los Angeles Fire Department Personnel for medical treatment and are listed in stable condition. The name of the deceased has not been disclosed to the public.

Authorities have described the suspect as a Black male, who was last seen traveling southbound on Orlando Avenue from 3^rd Street on foot.

Anyone with details on the shooting is asked to contact the Los Angeles Police Department’s West Bureau Homicide Detectives at 213-382-9470. During non-business hours, or on weekends, calls should be directed to 1-877-LAPD-24-7 (1-877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477) or go directly to www.lacrimestoppers.org.

Tipsters can visit www.lapdonline.org, and click on “Anonymous Web Tips” under the Get Involved-Crime Stoppers” menu to submit an online tip. Lastly, tipsters may also download the “P3 Tips” mobile application and select the L.A. Regional Crime Stoppers as their local program.

By Casey

BEVERLY HILLS—Justin Combs, 29, who is Sean “Diddy” Combs son, was arrested on Tuesday, July 4, in Beverly Hills and is facing charges of two misdemeanors in a DUI case.

At around 8 a.m., officials noticed Combs running a red light. Images of him were taken as he was speaking to the officer that stopped him. After interviewing Combs, the officer decided that there was enough probable cause to book him for allegedly driving under the influence. He was given a sobriety test and failed. Combs was released on a $5,000 bond on the same day at around 12:30 p.m.

Combs has a separate set of charges that were officially filed on June 27 which are driving under the influence and having a blood alcohol content higher that 0.08%.

He is facing up to six months in prison and could have his license suspended. DUI charges in California typically include six months in jail plus fines.

His pretrial hearing is scheduled for August 10.

Combs mother Misa Hylton, who a designer and Diddy’s ex-partner, took to social media after she discovered her son was arrested. On her Instagram story Hylton posted, “Act Bad???” referring to Diddy’s latest single. “I’m not protecting no one no more. Just my son. I’m not with none of that reality TV s***. When is enough enough?” she added.

She continued, “Act BAD. BAD boy. I used to want to be a BAD Girl chose to be a QUEEN. Tried and true. I’m not perfect but I am intentional. The statement ‘a fish rots from the head down’ means that, in addition to being a major contributing factor in a family or organization’s success, leadership is also the root cause of its failure and demise.”

“The truth shall set you free. I should have kept my child with me … Everybody can get it.”

“Sell something healthy that builds people up. I’m sick of it. NOT MINES. Everyone has to sit around for years and act like there isn’t anything wrong with you. This where the buck stops with me. If anything ever happened to my son, GOD FORBID. What is anyone going to say to me?”

“You want to do reality TV? Ok let’s be real then. Let’s lay it all out then starting from the top,” her post concluded. Hylton’s post has since been retracted.

Combs is the executive producer of “The Crew League” which is a televised celebrity basketball tournament and “Respectfully Justin” a reality series with Justin Laboy. Before he started his career in entertainment be played football for UCLA. As a kid Combs admired NFL quarterback Michael Vick.

In June 2015, Justin’s father, Diddy, was arrested and charged with felony assault for throwing a kettlebell at UCLA assistant football coach, Sal Alosi, over allegedly disrespecting Justin and throwing him out of practice.

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—Real Housewives of Beverly Hills stars Kyle Richards and Mauricio Umansky issued a joint statement regarding the rumors of their possible divorce that was first reported by People on Monday, July 3.

“In regards to the news that came out about us today… Any claims regarding us divorcing are untrue,” they said. “However, yes, we have had a rough year. The most challenging one of our marriage.”

“But we both love and respect each other tremendously. There has been no wrongdoing on anyone’s part,” the statement continued.

“Although we are in the public eye, we ask to be able to work through our issues privately. While it may be entertaining to speculate, please do not create false stories to fit a further salacious narrative. Thank you for your love and support.”

The couple who has been married for the past 27 years went on the show “Two T’s in a Pod” to further discuss the matter.

“We’re not getting divorced. … I mean, it’s so dumb. [There’s] that one stupid story that came out there and then the girls all, you know, decided to talk about it on the Housewives and so now it’s a story line. So there’s definitely some stories out there and Kyle and I address it and we’ll take it from there. It is what it is,” Mauricio stated. “They really brought it up to Kyle, which is kind of bitchy and super mean because, particularly the girls, they actually know what’s going on and they know exactly what it’s all about.”

Richards and Umansky met in 1994 and married two years later. Since then the couple has had four daughters and grew multiple businesses together. In 2022, Umansky announced that he would be starring in his own reality real estate series on Netflix “Buying Beverly Hills.”

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on Wednesday, July 5 that Arlen Eskandari was chosen as the next City Building Official (CBO) and Assistant Director of Community Development for Beverly Hills.

Eskandari currently serves as the City’s Deputy Building Official, managing plan review and building inspection services.  He assumes the role held by former CBO David Yelton who retired last week after 25 years of service to the Beverly Hills community.

“I am very pleased to welcome Arlen to this new role,” said Ryan Gohlich, Assistant City Manager. “His understanding of the City’s complex and technical codes and ordinances have prepared him well to lead the division and maintain the highest safety and quality standards that Beverly Hills requires.”

He joined Beverly Hills in 2014 as Senior Plan Review Engineer and was later promoted to Structural Engineer, Supervising Plan Review Engineer and recently Deputy Building Official.  He has over 20 years of experience in the design, plan review, construction, and management of various projects.

Eskandari holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering and a Master’s Degree in Structural/Earthquake Engineering.  He is a registered Professional Civil Engineer, as well as Structural Engineer in the State of California.  He is also a Certified Project Management Professional and Building Official with the International Code Council.

By Casey

BEVERLY HILLS—A driver of a white Jeep was caught on camera repeatedly running into the front of a Lexus dealership in Beverly Hills on Monday, July 3 around 10:30 p.m.

The driver who has not been identified was shown running into the glass storefront of the dealership located on 9200 block of Wilshire Avenue before attempting to get away.

As the vehicle was attempting to flee the driver hit a stop sign across the street and abandoned the vehicle.

There were no reported injuries, and nothing was stolen.

Detectives have not determined a motive.

Canyon News reached out to the Beverly Hills Police Department for more information but did not hear back before print.

By Christianne

SANTA MONICA—The Santa Monica Police Department arrested two suspects for grand theft on June 28, after they were allegedly found in possession of stolen catalytic converters. 

“At approximately 3am, the Santa Monica Emergency Dispatch Center received two calls regarding the sound of sawing and metal being cut in the area of Highland and Ocean Park,” said a statement released on the SMPD Twitter account.  “Officers arrived and conducted a traffic stop in the area resulting in the recovery of 3 catalytic converters, saws and other tools.”

The suspects were identified as Andrew Diaz and Bryan Lima, both 21 years-old. They were arrested for grand theft and transported to the Santa Monica Jail. 

The Santa Monica City Council motioned to pass a new ordinance on May 24 in response to the high levels of catalytic converter thefts in the city. 

According to the SMPD, in 2022, 312 catalytic converters were stolen, and since January 2023, 215 accounts of catalytic converter thefts were reported as of May 22.  

The ordinance allows police to fine people $500 for possessing unattached catalytic converters if they cannot provide proof of ownership. Police also have the ability to seize the catalytic converters. 

By Paige Strickland

BEVERLY HILLS—Four-time NBA champion LeBron James demolished his house in Beverly Hills last week. James is starting construction to completely rebuild “his dream home,” according to a tweet made by Front Office Sports on June 22.

According to Forbes, James paid $36.75 million for the 1930s Mediterranean-style home in 2020, which was slightly below the original listing price of $39 million.

The 13,000-square-foot villa featured a large motor court for his many cars, four bedrooms, eight bathrooms, vaulted ceilings, a screening room, and seven fireplaces.

Reportedly, James filed for building permits for the 2.5-acre plot since the Beverly Hills home was first purchased, but legalities delayed the project.

The property was previously owned by Lee Phillip Bell, known for being a co-creator of the CBS soap operas, “The Bold and the Beautiful” and “The Young and the Restless.” Bell died in 2020, but both soaps are still airing on daytime TV.

Other celebrity owners include French-American actor Charles Boyer who starred in over 80 films, as well as prolific film producer Howard Hughes, who leased the home to actress Katharine Hepburn.

By Paige Strickland

BEVERLY HILLS— On Monday, June 26, a body was reportedly discovered by the Electric Fountain in Beverly Hills Garden Park at 9800 Wilshire Boulevard, near Waldorf Astoria, Citizen app reported. 

At around 5:30 p.m., a 911 caller reported the unconfirmed incident. Beverly Hills Police Department and Los Angeles Fire Department paramedics arrived at the scene. A video posted on Citizen app shows LAFD paramedics covering the body which appears to be lying on the lawn next to Wilshire Boulevard. 

No further details are known about the incident at this time. 

This is not the first time a body has been discovered in Beverly Hills Garden Park. In 2021, a man was found unresponsive and was pronounced dead upon the paramedics arrival, KTLA reported. A preliminary investigation indicated that there was no sign of foul play. 

Canyon News reached out to Beverly Hills Police Department for detail but did not hear back before print.

By Lacy

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills is spreading the word that July is Parks Make Life Better! Month that recognizes the importance of access to the city’s 15 parks, and recreation offerings in Beverly Hills, and open spaces and community centers that enrich our lives and are part of what makes the small town character this City so special.

“Parks and recreation help us stay healthy and well – mind, body and soul.  They give us a space to workout, stay active and fit.  They provide a much needed sanctuary in the urban environment to keep us connected to each other and the great outdoors, and to bring value to our lives in a variety of ways including being a cherished summertime community gathering space,” states the city of Beverly Hills on its website.

JULY – PARKS MAKE LIFE BETTER! MONTH ACTIVITIES

Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market

Parks Make Life Better! Month – Kickoff

Sunday, July 2 – 8 a.m.- 1 p.m.

Join us at the Farmer’s Market on Sunday, July 2 for the kickoff of our July Parks Make Life Better! month. Stop by our Recreation & Parks booth for a chance to win some fun prizes. Come enjoy the market, and learn about the wide array of recreation classes, programs, and activities that we have planned for the summer and into our fall session for all ages.

Roxbury Park to Greystone Mansion & Gardens

Senior Excursion: Lunch & Movie at Greystone Mansion

Thursday, July 6 – 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Join us on Thursday, July 6 for lunch and a movie at the Greystone Mansion. Participants will be picked up at the Roxbury Park Community Center, and transported to the Greystone Mansion & Gardens for lunch in the courtyard, a tour of the mansion, and a movie in the historic Greystone Theater. Attendance will be limited to approximately 30 attendees, and fees will include transportation, lunch, and a movie.

Beverly Canon Gardens Park

Concerts on Canon: Arts & Crafts & Games for Kids & Families

Thursday, July 6 – 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Join us at Concerts on Cañon with the entire family on Thursday, July 6 for a fun-filled evening listening to a 60’s Tribute band “Beach St. A GoGo” while also enjoying children’s games, crafts, and activities!

Roxbury Park Community Center

Family Bingo

Friday, July 14 – 5 p.m.

Get ready for an exciting day of family fun and games! Join us on July 14 at 5 p.m. for a thrilling Bingo event that is sure to keep everyone entertained. This is the perfect opportunity to gather the whole family for a day of laughter, friendly competition, and of course, some amazing prizes!

Whether you’re a seasoned Bingo player or a newcomer to the game, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With a variety of Bingo games to play, you will have plenty of chances to win and walk away with some amazing prizes. Mark your calendars and bring the whole family down to our Family Bingo event on July 14th. We promise a day of fun and excitement that you won’t want to miss! See you there!

Roxbury Park

Shakespeare By The Sea: The Tragedy of Hamlet

Wednesday, July 26 – 7 p.m.

Join us at Roxbury Park for an evening of Shakespeare with all your friends and family of all ages. Admission is free, and no advanced registration required – so bring your blanket and picnic while enjoying a fun summer night of theater outside at Roxbury Park.

Beverly Hills Farmers’ Market

Parks Make Life Better! Finale – Passport Activity Log, Scavenger Hunt & more

July 30 – 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.

Join us at the Farmer’s Market on Sunday, July 30 for the finale of our Parks Make Life Better! month activities. Come visit our kid’s booth, where you will find your very own Beverly Hills Parks Make Life Better coloring book, and a variety of interactive games to choose from. Don’t miss our Parks Make Life Better scavenger hunt at the Farmers Market – solve puzzles, riddles, and use your detective skills when meeting some of our farmers, to help find the treasure and earn some prizes.

FREE COMMUNITY SERVICE WORKSHOPS IN JULY

Roxbury Park Community Center

Sound & Breathwork Meditation with Chana Gedy

Thursday, July 13 – 4:30 p.m.

Join us for a unique family-oriented event, merging the calming elements of a sound bath, with the rejuvenating practice of breath-work. The experience is designed to foster connection, enhance mindful communication, and promote a shared experience among parents and kids alike through movement, breath-work and immersive soundscapes.

Please remember to bring your yoga mats, comfortable pillows, and anything else that could help create a perfect space for family relaxation. We look forward to sharing this special experience with you and your family.

Roxbury Park Community Center

Art with Ms. Dyana

Friday, July 21 – 1 p.m. – 2 p.m.

Get ready to unleash your creativity and let your inner artist shine! Join us for an afternoon of fun and relaxation on July 21 at 1 p.m. as you explore your artistic side at Roxbury Memorial Park.

This art class is perfect for all skill levels – whether you’re a seasoned painter or a complete beginner. We’ll provide all the materials you need, so all you do is bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to experiment with different techniques and styles.

During the class, we’ll be creating a beautiful art piece that you can take home with you at the end of the day. You’ll have the opportunity to express yourself creatively and meet new people. So if you’re looking for a fun and unique way to spend an afternoon with friends and family, come along to our art class at Roxbury Memorial Park. We can’t wait to see you there!

The dates and times for the Roxbury Park Adult/Senior Drum Circle and La Cienega Park Youth/Family Drum Circle have not yet been announced.

By Casey

BEVERLY HILLS—Comedian and actor Pete Davidson has been charged with one count of reckless driving after he crashed a vehicle into a Beverly Hills home on May 4. 

The Los Angeles District Attorney’s Office confirmed the charge in a statement to CBS on Friday, June 16. 

“We believe that Mr. Davidson engaged in reckless driving, which ultimately resulted in his involvement in a serious collision into a home,” the statement to CBS read. “Luckily, no one was seriously injured as a result of this collision.”

The incident reportedly occurred at approximately 11 p.m. on May 4 in a residential area of Beverly Hills near the intersection of Rodeo Drive and Elevado Avenue. 

According to TMZ, which first broke the news of the crash, actress Chase Sui Wonders was in the passenger seat as Davidson drove a Mercedes at a high rate of speed, coming in contact with a house.

No one was hurt in the crash, but damages were caused to a fire hydrant and the home. Reportedly, authorities do not believe drugs or alcohol were involved at this time, but the investigation is still ongoing. No arrests were made.

In Los Angeles, a reckless driving charge can result in a sentence of up to 90 days in jail and a $1,000 fine.  

Davidson is scheduled to be arraigned on July 27.

By Paige Strickland

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills is currently hiring. Some current full-time positions that are open include Building Inspectors, Police Officers, Recreation Services Manager, Code Enforcement Officer and more as well as part-time roles!

The city of BH indicates on its website individuals detailed work history is required on the application. A resume submitted in lieu of an application will not be sufficient. “See resume” is NOT an acceptable response under ‘Work Experience’ section. An application containing this response may be deemed incomplete.  Applications may be rejected if incomplete.

The first application created will be saved and can be used for subsequent positions you wish to apply for. The application is the primary tool used to evaluate your job qualifications. Collect details about your education and employment history before creating your application. Interested applicants are asked to complete the application in its entirety making sure you give detailed information on all relevant areas as a poorly completed application can be a disadvantage to meeting the minimum qualification for a position.

Those planning to spend more than 30 minutes applying, should be certain to click on the save button as they go along. Failure to do so will result in loss of information. DO NOT click submit until certain the application is fully completed. Upon clicking ‘submit’ individuals can no longer update. Print a copy of the job bulletin and your application for future reference. An automated confirmation email will be generated following submission. Keep this confirmation as proof. If you are to be selected to the next round(s) of the recruitment process, your qualification may be evaluated thru written, skill assessment, and oral exams.

Be sure to add this email address to one’s address book so you can receive emails regarding the positions applying for: info@governmentjobs.com. For more information, visit beverlyhills.org/jobs. Those needing assistance can view an Online Employment Application Guide. Call the NeoGov customer service hotline at (855) 524-5627 if technical questions arise regarding account setup or account login troubleshooting.

For salary information, refer to the Summary of Salaries.

BEVERLY HILLS—Two suspects were arrested after reportedly stealing multiple purses from restaurant customers on Canon Drive over the weekend. 

On Saturday, June 3, surveillance video at Wally’s, a wine and cheese bar on Canon Drive, captured a male and female suspect standing close to a female customer sitting down at a table. The male suspect appears to be on a phone call while the female suspect takes the purse off of the customer’s chair and places it in her larger bag. 

According to KTLA, police say that after the suspects left Wally’s, they committed a separate purse theft at another restaurant on Canon Drive. 

Cameras captured footage of the two suspects leaving in a vehicle. The license plate was visible in the footage, which led authorities to their arrest in Fontana on Sunday, June 4.

The suspects were identified as Edeson S. Ramirez and Jeeny C. Pineda, who are now facing charges of conspiracy to commit burglary. The case is still currently under investigation. 

By Paige Strickland

BEVERLY HILLS— Beverly Hills Police Officers reportedly searched the 200 block of South Hamilton Drive for an armed robbery suspect on Tuesday, June 6, Citizen reported.  

At around 8:30 p.m., BHPD responded to calls about a male suspect who was jumping off roofs onto apartment balconies, confronting the residents and robbing them. According to reports, the male suspect robbed a man of his wristwatch and robbed a female on the third floor of an apartment building. 

A roadblock was established – and police were reportedly canvassing the area with dogs – in order to keep the suspect from fleeing. Individuals were on lockdown in the area and not allowed to leave or enter in. 

At around 8:57 p.m., it was reported that the suspect remained at-large and not in police custody, apartment residents and citizen users commented. 

By 10:04 p.m., BHPD sent out an alert that they have concluded their search and the suspect was not located. 

Canyon News reached out to BHPD Public Information Officer Perez for more detail but did not hear back before print.

By Lacy

BEVERLY HILLS—Applications for Team Beverly Hills program are being accepted now through Friday, July 14, Keith Sterling, Deputy City Manager for Beverly Hills announced on Monday, June 5.

Created in 1996, Team Beverly Hills provides residents with a hands-on look at the operations of local government.  This program includes a variety of class sessions and includes interactive experiences with various departments. Program participants explore the behind-the-scenes operations of Beverly Hills including Public Works, Emergency Management, Information Technology, Community Services and Public Safety. At least 750 residents have completed Team Beverly Hills and over 70 percent of all current elected officials and City Commissioners are Team BH alumni.

The Team Beverly Hills program will select 50 residents (30 appointed by the Beverly Hills City Council, 18 selected by a random lottery, and two selected by the Beverly Hills Unified School District) for its upcoming class. Five representatives from the city’s business community (appointed by the BH City Council) will also be selected for the program, which kicks off later this year.

Objectives from Team BH include the following:

-To build a resource of involved community members for future Commissions, committees, programs, and projects for the benefit of the Beverly Hills community.

-To develop, nurture, and utilize leadership potential within the community.

-To familiarize community members with all aspects of government, business, education, and service industries.

-To involve community members in community activities, projects, and endeavors.

To learn more about Team Beverly Hills and to fill out an application online visit beverlyhills.org/teambeverlyhills or call 310-285-1014 or email teambh@beverlyhills.org.

By Casey

BEVERLY HILLS—William Henry Cosby Jr., 85, known as actor and comedian, Bill Cosby, from “The Cosby Show,” “Fat Albert,” and the Jell-O Pudding commercials, is being sued on a new allegation of rape and sexual misconduct.

In June 2023, former Playboy model, Victoria Valentino filed a lawsuit against Cosby alleging that in 1969, he drugged and assaulted her.

In June 2022, jurors in a Los Angeles civil trial found Cosby guilty of sexual abuse of a 16-year-old girl at the Playboy Mansion. The victim, Judy Huth, now 64, was awarded $500,000 after the court’s findings that Cosby intentionally caused physical harm through sexual contact of a child whom he knew without reasonable doubt was under the age of 18.

On January 4, 2023, Stacey Pinkerton, filed a criminal complaint against Cosby in New York claiming Cosby sexually assaulted her in 1986. 

Pinkerton, 21 at the time, alleges that she was an aspiring actress and model, working as a flight attendant.  The victim indicated she met Cosby for dinner, “under the pretense of advancing her career.”  Pinkerton claims she was drugged by Cosby, taken back to a motel room, and raped.

Pinkerton included the companies “The Cosby Show,” NBC, Kaufman Astoria Studios, and Casey Werner Company in her lawsuit for negligence, negligent hiring, supervision, and retention.

In 2018, Cosby was convicted of three counts of aggravated indecent assault in the state of Pennsylvania. He was charged with drugging and assaulting his victim, Andrea Constand in 2004. He was sentenced to 3-10 years of prison time, but was released in 2021.

The Pennsylvania Supreme Court overturned the sexual conviction filed against him finding that he was “denied protection against self-incrimination.”

In a 2005 deposition regarding the assault of a Temple University employee, Cosby was questioned about his intentions when providing drugs to women.

“When you got the quaaludes [in the 1970s], was it in your mind that you were going to use these quaaludes for young women that you wanted to have sex with,” the deposition stated, to which Cosby answered, “Yes.”

Sevens Legal APC who has been defending Cosby since 2014 noted claims of sexual misconduct and rape by 36 different women. Cosby’s attorney, Martin Singer is quoted in calling old charges against the comedian, “past the point of absurdity.”

Bill and his wife of 58 years, Camille, own approximately $100 million in real estate in both Beverly Hills, California and Elkins Park, Pennsylvania, the latter which the Cosby’s call home.

According to Celebrity Net Worth, the Cosby’s own approximately $150 million in art that started at beginning of Bill’s career in the 1960s. Their collection includes works of art by Rembrandt, Picasso, Renoir, and Matisse.

By Sharon

BEVERLY HILLS—John Strand, a former Beverly Hills actor and romance novel cover model was sentenced to two years and eight months for his participation in the 2021 Capitol Insurrection Thursday, June 1. He was also ordered by the courts to pay a total of $10,000 in fines.

According to reports, Strand’s additional fine was due to the fact that he had been fundraising off his conviction for legal defense purposes even though he was appointed a lawyer through the courts. The DC District Court Judge Christopher Cooper added that because of Strand’s lack of remorse his sentence was longer than what it might have been.

“On the Capitol steps, Strand took a series of selfies, made a vulgar gesture at the besieged police officers, and boasted on Twitter about having stormed the Capitol,” prosecutors wrote in a sentencing brief. “Strand has since leveraged his crimes in extensive self-promotion in which he seeks money for ‘legal services,’ even as taxpayers shoulder the actual burden of his criminal defense.”

The government revealed in a sentencing memo that Strand has raised more than $17,000 since his conviction for his legal defense and did not disclose that his legal representation was paid for by the taxpayers.

Simone Gold, a doctor from Beverly Hills who also holds a law degree from Stanford, was charged alongside Strand. During the pandemic Strand served as a spokesperson for Gold’s anti-vaccination group American Frontline Doctors. On January 6 Gold and Strand were part of the crowd of people who participated in the insurrection after the former president made his speech making their way to the House Chamber where they were met with a group of officers. 

“Strand made his way to the front of a mob facing off against a line of police guarding the House Chamber. The mob, with Strand at the very front, violently pushed their way through the line of Capitol police officers, resulting in a head injury to Sergeant N.V., who was at the front of the police line. Strand and Gold then stood outside the House Chamber Doors, watching on as a fellow rioter with a flag pole broke the windows in the House Chamber Doors. Inside the House Chamber, officers drew their weapons and barricaded the doors in a desperate attempt to prevent Strand and the mob from breaching the House Chamber, where members of Congress and others remained inside,” the sentencing memo read. 

In March 2022, Gold pleaded guilty to a single misdemeanor charge of unlawfully entering and remaining in a restricted area of the US Capitol. She was sentenced in June 2022 to 60 days in prison.

Even though Strand has been found guilty on five counts he still maintains his innocence stating that the prosecutors destroyed his life for a lie. 

Strand’s attorney argued that it was Gold who insisted on heading inside the Capitol and his client followed after her to protect her. 

“Of the approximately 1,000 individuals who entered the United States Capitol on the afternoon of January 6, 2021, John Strand is, if culpable at all, certainly the least culpable of them all,” Strand’s attorney wrote in a sentencing brief. “For unlike virtually every other person who entered the Capitol that day, his goal was not to cause violence, or even to voice displeasure at the results of the presidential election and its processes. And it was certainly not to obstruct the certification process, corruptly or otherwise.”

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—The Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance will celebrate 28 years with its event in Beverly Hills on Father’s Day on Sunday, June 18. The event will be held by 10 a.m.-4 p.m. on Rodeo Drive between Wilshire Boulevard and Santa Monica Boulevard. The car show is a free event that will include supercars, race cars, classic vehicle and plenty more.

“The annual Father’s Day Concours d’Elegance is a tradition that families look forward to each year,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Julian Gold. “There is no better place to see so many of the world’s most sought-after cars, all in one place, than in Beverly Hills on Father’s Day, surrounded by worldclass history, iconic palm-lined streets and, of course, our welcoming community.”

“We’re thrilled to be back on Rodeo Drive for this fantastic Father’s Day tradition. We work to make this event bigger and better each year and couldn’t do it without the support of this incredible community,” said Bruce Meyer, chairman of the Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance. “I love seeing families enjoy this day together, and you can’t beat the smile on someone’s face when they see their favorite car. It’s a family event and free of charge!”

“The Rodeo Drive Concours d’Elegance is a spectacular, world-class event that brings together luxury, fashion and a car culture that is unique to Rodeo Drive,” said Rodeo Drive Committee President Kathy Gohari. “We are delighted to welcome fathers, families and car lovers back to the street to enjoy a celebration of the finest vehicles ever made.”

This event is supported by the city, the Rodeo Drive Committee, O’Gara Coach, Auto Vault Storage, GEARYS Beverly Hills, Ferrari Beverly Hills, Mercedes-Benz of Beverly Hills, Lucid Motors, Pirelli Tire, Velocity Modern Classics and RM Sotheby’s. Proceeds from the event benefit the Beverly Hills Police Officers Association and Beverly Hills Firefighters’ Association, non-profit charities raising funds for first responders and their families.

Owners are invited to submit their cars for display consideration here. Admission to the event is free and parking is available at nearby parking garages. To learn more, visit beverlyhills.org/concours.

By Casey.

BEVERLY HILLS—The first ballot count update after Beverly Hills’ special election on Tuesday, May 23 shows the majority of voters are currently not in favor of the billion-dollar Cheval Blanc hotel project on Rodeo Drive.

Residents of Beverly Hills cast their ballots on two measures that would accept or reverse the Beverly Hills City Council’s approval of plans for LVMH’s Cheval Blanc hotel. The hotel would stand nine stories tall and feature up to 115 rooms, a 500-member private club, and restaurant and retail uses on an approximately 1.28-acre site in the northern portion of the business triangle.

As of Friday, May 26, 50.88 percent voted no on Measure B, which would approve zoning code changes for the size of the hotel, while 49.12 percent voted yes. On Measure C, which details tax agreements with LVMH, 50.89 percent voted no, and 49.11 percent voted yes.

Voters opposing the hotel are currently in the lead by 123 votes on Measure B and 125 votes on Measure C.

According to Los Angeles County Registrar-Recorder/County Clerk Dean C. Logan, the total election results count is now 7,028.

Approximately 135 remaining ballots are “pending signature cures from voters whose signature was missing on the Return Envelope or did not match their registration record.” Once the ballots are cured they will be added to the official count.

The special election was initiated due to a referendum created by Unite Here Local 11, a union group that seeks to protect hospitality workers in Los Angeles. The union collected enough signatures to force the election to take place. Unite Here Local 11 opposed the project due to the lack of Beverly Hills’ affordable housing. 

Residents Against Overdevelopment, a grassroots group, says the hotel would cause “unbearable traffic and congestion to little Santa Monica and the Triangle,” and lack of “adequate parking” would force guests to use “much needed parking in the city.” 

“We oppose the monolithic Cheval Blanc Hotel project because it is just too big and tall for our village. It goes up to 9 stories in height, instead of the allowed three stories, and has more than twice the allowed density,” the Residents Against Overdevelopment website states. 

Beverly Hills Mayor Julian Gold says Beverly Hills has “lost an incredible addition to Rodeo Drive that would have provided additional funding for vital city services.” 

Jessica Miller, a spokesperson from LVMH, addressed the outlook of the ballot update on Friday stating:

“If the final vote count confirms the voters’ rejection of our project, we will respect the outcome and will not bring the hotel project back in any form.”

Another ballot update is set for Tuesday, May 30, and the final results of the special election will be determined June 2.

By Paige Strickland

BEVERLY HILLS—On Tuesday, May 23, a federal grand jury handed down a five-count indictment accusing, Mark Roy Anderson, 68, of Beverly Hills of defrauding investors out of $9 million.

Anderson, who was on house arrest for prior convictions was arrested on May 9, following a criminal complaint by prosecutors.

Anderson allegedly had investors wire money to him to purchase fictitious hemp farm shares in an operation, he named, Harvest Farm Group.

The following statement came directly from a May 23, press release by the Department of Justice (DOJ):

“To induce the victim-investors to invest in Harvest Farm Group, defendant Anderson falsely represented that, through Harvest Farm Group: (i) he owned and operated a hemp farm in Kern County, California; (ii) he had already completed successful and profitable harvests of hemp from the farm; and (iii) he was using his own machinery and equipment to convert the hemp into CBD isolate and/or Delta 8, a psychoactive substance that, like CBD isolate, could be used in consumer products ranging from olive oil to body cream,” according to the indictment, which goes on to allege that none of those claims was true.

Anderson allegedly attempted to maintain a veneer of trustworthiness by taking steps to assure investors Harvest Farms Group was legitimate and he “was not the ‘Mark Roy Anderson’ with multiple prior fraud convictions.” The indictment alleges Anderson “concealed that he had been convicted of multiple federal and state felony crimes, including mail fraud, wire fraud, grand theft, forgery, preparing false evidence, and money laundering, and concealed that he was still serving a criminal sentence and still on supervised release at the time he was soliciting investments.”

This all transpired while Anderson was serving time on a 135-month prison sentence from May 2012.

According to a press release by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), in addition to his aforementioned prison sentence, Anderson was a disbarred U.S. Attorney. He was court-ordered to pay $9.5 million in restitution to those he embezzled from in a fake oil venture scheme he was running. Anderson was 57 years old at the time.

Judge Percy Anderson who presided over the 2012 fraud scheme case publicly referred to Mark Roy Anderson as, “A professional conman.” He had prior convictions against him that dated back to the 1980s.

Mark Roy Anderson is being held without bond in this case. His arraignment for the May 23 indictment is scheduled for May 30 in U.S. District Court.

If convicted, each count of wire fraud alleged in his indictment carries a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison.

The FBI is investigating this case. The Assistant U.S. Attorney, Kerry L. Quinn of the Major Frauds Section is prosecuting the case.

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on May 17 they are seeking committee members interested in joining Mayor Julian Gold’s new Electrical Resilience Ad Hoc Committee. The Committee will explore ways Beverly Hills might become more energy self-reliant in the future.

“Today, we are dependent on an aging infrastructure that is less reliable than we need.  As a result, we are subject to an unacceptable number of failures of the system,” said Mayor Gold. “The goal of this Committee is to investigate technology which will allow us to be more electrically independent in the future and avoid these failures.”

According to the city of Beverly Hills website, the Committee will be managed by both the BH City Manager’s Office, as well as the Public Works Department and will consist of two Councilmembers and three at-large volunteer members. Those who apply must be residents of Beverly Hills and appointments will be for an initial two-year term.

Applications are open until Friday, June 2 at 5 p.m. To complete an application visit beverlyhills.org/applyforacommission or call the Beverly Hills Clerk’s office at (310) 285-2400.

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced that Timothea Tway, the Director of Community Development accepted the same role in the city of San Luis Obispo starting June 19.

“I am deeply grateful for my 11 years in Beverly Hills and will truly miss the people I work with and the community members I have come to know so well,” said Tway.  “As a San Luis Obispo native with family still living in that City, this is a rare and special opportunity that my husband and I believe is the right decision for our young family. I would like to thank the members of the Beverly Hills City Council and City Manager Nancy Hunt-Coffey for the opportunity to serve as Director.”

Tway started working in Beverly Hills in 2012 as an Assistant Planner and later served as Associate Planner, Senior Planner, Principal Planner, and City Planner before being named Director in 2022.

According to a press release, the city of Beverly Hills will announce the process of choosing a new Director of Community Development in the coming weeks.

BEVERLY HILLS—The  city of Beverly Hills’ announced on its website that their contractor has started construction on Coldwater Canyon Drive to replace aging pipeline and install new pipeline. Through early 2024, work will take place 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. Monday through Friday (excluding holidays).

Coldwater Canyon Drive from Rexford Drive to Monte Cielo Drive will have only one lane open to traffic in each direction. In certain locations, only one lane will be available for both directions.

Motorists are asked to use alternate routes, be courteous and yield to those leaving their driveways and homes in the impacted area. The replacement of the pipelines are important to Beverly Hills’ water infrastructure. They were installed in the 1920s to 1960s and have been the site of several water main breaks in recent years.

For additional details on the Water Main Replacement Project and timeline contact Public Works Customer Service at (310) 285-2467 or email askpw@beverlyhills.org.

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills announced on Tuesday, May 16 that Nestor Otazu, was selected as the next Deputy Director of Rent Stabilization beginning Monday, May 22. Otazu has been an employee of Beverly Hills for the past 25 years.

He currently serves as the City’s Community Preservation Manager overseeing compliance with various property maintenance, land use, building, health and safety regulations. As Deputy Director, he will administer and enforce the City’s Rent Stabilization Ordinance.

“I am very pleased to welcome Nestor to this new role,” said Timothea Tway, Director of Community Development. “With almost three decades in Beverly Hills and his directly relevant experience working with both our tenants and landlords, I’m confident he will thrive in the position and enhance this critical division of the City.”

He started working for the city of Beverly Hills in 1998 as a Building Systems Technician before shifting to Code Enforcement Officer in 2000. He was later named manager of the division in 2008. He has worked to expand the service and program operations to seven days a week. Otazu has managed and administered rent stabilization codes and tenant and landlord processes.

In the year 2017, he started an active role with Beverly Hills leaders in the implementation, rollout and development of the new Rent Stabilization Program and rent registry.

By Casey

BEVERLY HILLS—On Saturday and Sunday, May 20 and May 21 from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. a free art show will take place at Beverly Gardens Park located at 9439 Santa Monica Blvd.

The art show will consists for artists from around the country and includes various formats including sculpture, photography and painting to name a few.

There will be activities for children, food trucks, and community exhibits at the event. There will also be a Wine and Beer Garden.

The event will take place regardless of weather conditions. Various facets of art will be on display such as jewelry, glass and paintings.

A map of the venue is available using at Detail Map, May 2023 (beverlyhills.org).  

Parking is available at 9455 North Santa Monica Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA 90210, which is 2 blocks away from the show. Anyone with questions about the event can call 310-285-6830.

By Rob

BEVERLY HILLS—The Beverly Hills Police Department announced in a press release that they have made multiple arrests in connection to an armed robbery that took place on Wednesday, April 26. 

Briana Threets, 18, and Keymaurie Clark, 26, were both charged with 211 PC – Robbery. Both are residents of Oakland, California. The other two suspects who have been arrested are under the age of 18. One is a 15 year old male and the other is a 15 year old female. 

On the night of the crime, police responded to the area of Wilshire Boulevard and Bedford Drive after receiving reports of an armed robbery. The suspects fled the scene before police arrived and prompted a short pursuit. The suspects drove south on Bedford Drive from Wilshire Boulevard in a silver Dodge sedan. Police located the vehicle and attempted to make a traffic stop. The vehicle made evasive maneuvers and a pursuit ensued, stated the BHPD. 

The pursuit ended in the area of Cotner Avenue and North Santa Monica Boulevard in the city of Los Angeles. All four occupants of the vehicle were detained. A handgun and a rifle were found in the suspects’ vehicle. Stolen property from three separate victims were found during the investigation. Investigators also discovered that the vehicle the suspects fled in was stolen.  

Detectives believe that there are other robberies that the same group of suspects are connected to. 

Anyone with information about this crime is urged to call the Beverly Hills Police Department at 310-285- 2125. Anonymous reports can be made by text to TIP BHPDAlert followed by the tip information to 888777. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 800-222-8477. To access Crime Stoppers, download the “P3 Tips” Mobile APP or use the website http://www.lacrimestoppers.org.

By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills will celebrate Public Works Day on Sunday, May 21, at the Farmers’ Market. The event will run from 9 a.m. to 12 p.m.

The goal during the event as noted on the city of BH website that the event is “Connecting the World Through Public Works.”

The event will be held at the Farmers Market located at Civic Center Drive and Third Street. There will be Bike Safety Tips and Helmet Fittings, a Petting Zoo, Goodie Giveaways, Big Trucks, Free Compost and Games.

The Department of Public Works is responsible for The Infrastructure and Right-of-Way Caretaker. There are over 200 employees committed to maintaining and strengthening Beverly Hills’ infrastructure including: traffic and street lights, sidewalks, streets, the stormwater system, City facilities, parks and trees.

In addition, the department provides fresh water, trash and recycling service, wastewater removal, and parking at city facilities and meters.

For more information on our programs and services browse visit their social media platforms, sign up for the newsletter “The Backbone” or contact Public Works Customer Service.

For more information about the event contact the city of Beverly Hills Public Works Department at (310) 285-2467. For details about the Department of Public Works email www.beverlyhills.org/pw.

BEVERLY HILLS—City of Beverly Hills Public Information Manager, Lauren Santillana indicated in a news release on April 19, that Mayor Dr. Julian Gold traveled to Sacramento to attend the League of California Cities annual City Leaders Summit to speak about the Beverly Hills Nurse Practitioner Program (NPP) and the plans to expand its services. He was joined by Beverly Hills Fire Chief Greg Barton, Beverly Hills Medical Director Dr. Marc Cohen, as well as EMS Administrator Sean Stokes.

The summit last week is the first of many for Mayor Dr. Gold, Chief Barton and staff in the coming months as they bring awareness to the benefits the program offers. Upcoming events where they will speak at include the California Contract Cities Association in Indian Wells, CA on May 20th and the Congressional Fire Service Institute in Washington, D.C. on May 23.

“Our Nurse Practitioner Program is the beginning of the future of community-based medicine,” said Beverly Hills Mayor Dr. Gold. “We are leading this pilot program to demonstrate to the country how we can put less stress on our hospitals and effectively give the care that is needed to our residents where they are at home. As we seek programs which support aging in place, it is imperative that we develop solutions like this one.”

The City’s NPP has been in place since 2019, and serves as a Mobile Integrated Healthcare solution that responds to low acuity emergency calls and helps those needing treatment in their home, addresses chronic conditions and decreases the reliance on the emergency department so that fire suppression resources can be made available.

At the Beverly Hills City Council Meeting on April 18, the Mayor and City Council approved additional funding for the program.

BEVERLY HILLS—From Sunday, April 9 through Saturday, April 15, the Beverly Hills Police Department will celebrate their dispatchers.

The BHPD tweeted, “Happy Dispatcher Week! We celebrate the hard work of dispatchers, including Selina from BHPD. With 10 yrs experience, she has been an invaluable member of our team. Thank you for being the calm voice in the midst of chaos & for keeping our community safe. We appreciate you!”

“These are very unique, highly trained individuals who remain calm and focused under pressure, they can’t see what is happening, they can only hear,” said Alan Barcelona, president of the California Statewide Law Enforcement Association (CSLEA).  “They are quick, intuitive, creative thinkers all in an effort to protect and to save lives.”

“Emergency dispatchers and call takers have a keen sense of the geographic region they serve. They know communities and neighborhoods, street by street. They know when someone needs to flee or someone needs to stay put. They are the calm in someone’s storm,” reads a statement from the CSLEA website.
By Rob

BEVERLY HILLS—From April 20-23, the classical music festival, Music in the Mansion returns. Winners of the Beverly Hills National Auditions will be showcased. Music will play from 7-9 p.m. on the opening the opening two days, 6-9 p.m. on Saturday, April 22 and 2-4 p.m. on Sunday, April 23.

“The OC Classical Trio was brought to life in Irvine, California, in 2023 by the flutist Antonina Styczeń. Winning Beverly Hills National Audition in 2022 allowed Antonina a long-awaited opportunity to create a trio with musicians—Pola Benke (cello) and Phillip Matsuura (piano) with whom she has been collaborating for many seasons  on different chamber music and recording projects in Orange County and Los Angeles. This year’s Music in the Mansion marks the trio’s debut,” as sated on the city of Beverly Hills website.

“Mezzo-Soprano Melissa Birch has performed both nationally and internationally in countries including England, Germany, Italy and throughout the United States. She has collaborated with groups such as the Leipzig Baroque Orchestra, the New West Symphony, and the San Bernardino Orchestra. An opera singer and recitalist Korean baritone Sejin Park performed featured roles as Marcello, Belcore, Yamadori, Il Conte Le nozze di Figaro and Figaro Il Barbiere di Siviglia. Winner of numerous competitions including Verdi International Competition, ‘Citta di Pesaro’ and Medici International Music Competition in Italy, and ‘Galina Vishnevskaya International Competition’ in Moscow, Russia, he was a Santa Fe Opera Apprentice Artist and is an alumni of Palm Beach Opera Benenson Program. He will be singing Germont in La Traviata in 2023 in New York. He holds both an MM and BM from Yonsei University, and the graduate of the Professional Study program at Mannes,” the city of BH website reads.

The event will take place at Greystone Mansion located at 905 Loma Vista Dr. in Beverly Hills, CA 90210.

Tickets cost $22 per night and are available using the link Catalog – City of Beverly Hills (rec1.com)  

Individuals with additional questions can call 310 – 285 -6830 or email BHEVENTS@beverlyhills.org.
By Rob

BEVERLY HILLS—Law enforcement with the Beverly Hills Police Department announced in a news release that the month of April is Distracted Driver’s Awareness Month and officers will be actively looking for drivers who are violating the state’s hand’s free cell phone law. 

Under current law, drivers are not allowed to hold a phone or electronic communications device while operating a vehicle. This includes talking, texting, or using an app. Using a handheld cell phone while driving is punishable by a fine. Violating the hands-free law for a second time within 36 months of a prior conviction for the same offense will result in a point being added to a driver’s record.

According to the 2022 California Statewide Public Opinion Survey, nearly 72 percent of drivers surveyed said that distracted driving because of texting was their biggest safety concern. In 2021, the California Highway Patrol (CHP) issued nearly 56,000 citations for distracted driving.

“Holding your phone and using it while driving is not only dangerous but also illegal,” said Beverly Hills Police Chief Mark G. Stainbrook. “Before starting the car, silence your phone or put it in the glove box, trunk, or back seat. Anywhere you can’t reach.”

If you have an important phone call, text, email, or are in a situation with other distractions, pull over to a safe parking spot. Other distractions can be eating, grooming, reaching for something that fell on the floor, putting on or taking off clothing, and talking with passengers or children in the back seat.

According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, there are three main types of distracted driving: visual, manual, and cognitive. Visual distraction is when a driver takes their eyes off the road, manual is when a driver takes their hands off the wheel, and cognitive is when the driver takes their mind and attention off the road. 

In the United States, over 3,100 people were killed and about 424,000 were injured in crashes involving a distracted driver in 2019, according to the CDC. About 1 in 5 of the people who died in crashes involving a distracted driver in 2019 were not in vehicles, they were walking, riding their bikes, or otherwise outside a vehicle.

Some groups are considered more at risk for distracted driving. In a 2019 survey, 39 percent of high school students who drove in the past 30 days texted or emailed while driving on at least one of those days. Texting or emailing while driving was more common among older students than younger students and more common among White students (44 percent) than Black (30 percent) or Hispanic students (35 percent) according to the same survey. 

Students who texted or emailed while driving were also more likely to report other transportation risk behaviors. Those surveyed were more likely not to wear a seat belt, more likely to ride with a driver who had been drinking alcohol, and more likely to drive after drinking alcohol.

Among drivers between the ages of 15 and 20 who were involved in fatal crashes 9 percent were distracted at the time of the crash. 

Vijay Dixit told the National Safety Council, “Parents, when your child gets a driver’s license …that is when your responsibility starts,” he said. “Your child’s life depends on you.” Dixit lost his 19 year-old daughter to distracted driving.

Even though some groups are considered more at risk than others, anyone can become a distracted driver.
By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—Julian A. Gold MD was sworn into office as Mayor of Beverly Hills on Tuesday, April 4. In a speech after he was sworn in, Gold invoked President John F. Kennedy: “The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining.” Gold was sworn in by longtime friend Judie Fenton, while surrounded by three generations of family members.

Gold is succeeding Lili Bosse who will still remain on the city council. 

Tuesday marked the completion of Councilmember Lili Bosse’s third term as mayor since she was first elected to the City Council in 2011. In Beverly Hills, council members vote to appoint a mayor for one-year terms on a rotating basis; the mayor serves as head of the council and as a ceremonial representative at events.

Councilmember Lester Friedman was sworn in as vice mayor, taking over that job from Gold.

Dr. Gold was elected to the Beverly Hills City Council in 2011 and has served as Mayor in 2015 and 2018. Previously, he served six years on the Beverly Hills Traffic and Parking Commission and served one year as its Chair. 

Dr. Gold is a native of New York and graduated from the NYU School of Medicine. As a Board-Certified anesthesiologist for 40 years, Dr. Gold served as Co-Chairman of the Department of Anesthesiology as Cedars-Sinai and Co-Managing Partner of the General Anesthesia Specialists Partnership Medical Group from January 1991 until April 2019. Dr. Gold previously served as a member of the Board of Directors of Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.

“I am incredibly honored to once again serve our community as Mayor,” said Mayor Gold.  “I am looking forward to a year that will focus on the health and well-being of everyone, putting a spotlight on those doing good through various charities and ensuring we have an even stronger infrastructure as it relates to our essential resources.”

The mayor plans to showcase people and organizations benefiting the city through a program called People Helping People, which honors public safety personnel.

Additionally, he is planning a Mayor’s Minute showcasing local businesses on social media and “Office Hours With Dr. Gold,” a virtual town hall
program.
By Christianne

BEVERLY HILLS—Alfredo Jose Padilla of Lynwood was taken into custody on March 24, by the Beverly Hills Police Department. Padilla is accused of being responsible for a string of thefts of grease from multiple restaurants in Beverly Hills and around Los Angeles. Formal charges are currently pending. 

Inedible kitchen grease, often referred to as used cooking oil, is traded as a commodity and is used in the production of both renewable diesel and biodiesel fuels. The grease is often stored in a tank behind a building and collected by a third party. 

Police officers were conducting a traffic stop at around 2 a.m. on March 24 when they pulled over the suspect’s car. Investigators found a loaded firearm and an unspecified controlled substance in his vehicle.  

Detectives with the BHPD are working with the California Department of Food and Agriculture investigators to identify additional victims.

The Canyon News reached out to the BHPD for more information on the case, but did not hear back before print.
By Christianne

TOPANGA/BEVERLY HILLS—The Los Angeles Police Department is currently investigating two separate incidents involving flash mob thefts in which groups of suspects entered several stores in the 8500 block of Beverly Blvd. at the Beverly Center and grabbed merchandise without paying and fled the scene.

The LAPD indicated in a joint effort with community partners, they received leads that they are actively working in an effort to bring those involved in the Grand Theft to justice.

A second incident transpired at the Topanga Mall in which an organized group attempted to burglarize a Nordstrom store. During the incident, a security officer was sprayed with Bear Spray. Officers responded and there is an ongoing investigation and active search for the culprits involved. The LAPD has investigators at scene at both locations conducting follow-up investigations to identify, pursue and bring the suspects in these crimes to justice.

The LAPD will continue with high visibility patrols, conduct a thorough investigation and direct additional resources to deter additional criminal activity.

Both investigations are ongoing and anyone with information regarding these types of incidents is asked to contact the LAPD at1-877-LAPD-24-7 (877-527-3247). Anyone wishing to remain anonymous should call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (800-222-8477). Tipsters may contact Crime Stoppers by texting to phone number 274637 (C-R-I-M-E-S on most keypads) with a cell phone. All text messages should begin with the letters “LAPD.” Tipsters may go to www.LAPDOnline.org, click on “webtips” and follow the prompts.

By Donald

BEVERLY HILLS—The city of Beverly Hills indicated in a press release that the Los Angeles County Department of Public Health (LACDPH) will issue a new Health Officer Order that requires customers to show proof of their COVID-19 vaccination prior to entering indoor bars, wineries, breweries, nightclubs and lounges.

Under the modified Order, employees and customers are required to have at least one vaccine dose by October 7 and both doses by November 4.

The New Health Officer Order will require workers and attendees at outdoor mega events (consisting of crowds over 10,000 people) to show proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test taken within 72 hours before working or attending the event.

Attendees at indoor mega events are already required to show proof of vaccination or a negative test prior to entry. These requirements will also apply to theme parks within the county.

While not required, LACDPH also recommends vaccine verification at indoor portions of restaurants to reduce transmission risk.

This announcement impacts businesses in the City of Beverly Hills. When available, theupdated Health Officer Order can be viewed at beverlyhills.org/coronavirus.

To find the nearest vaccination site, visit VaccinateLACounty.com or beverlyhills.org/covidvaccine. For questions about business impacts from the new Health Office Order, email businessrecovery@beverlyhills.org.

To stay updated on the latest COVID-19 news, visit beverlyhills.org/coronavirus or call the City’s COVID-19 Hotline Monday-Friday from 9:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. at 310-550-4680.

By Donald