Author Archives: ABC Public Relations

Easing The Pain Cancer Brings

To find out how you can help, contact Sheila at Crystal Roses: 951-205-8671 or email crystalroseshelps@gmail.com

By Anthony Saude

When Joan was diagnosed with cancer they thought they caught it pretty early. But six weeks into the diagnosis, she was notified that chemo and radiation treatments were challenges she had to endure. Deep inside he knew that worry and stress would not help the situation, but the worry about her teenage daughter had her wondering what will happen next. So as she sits there, alone, afraid, and cold, she knows she’ll be waiitng for hours. She begins to cry. Joan doesn’t know what to do. She doesn’t have any family and her friends have their own lives and can’t be around all the time. It all seemed so hopeless and she felt so alone. Then she met Sheila Romanski. A survivor who has dedicated her life to people like Joan.

Sheila and her team at Crystal Roses Inc, brought Joan a Comfort Tote filled with things they know she will need for this journey that she couldn’t know she needed. Most importantly they brought love, prayer, comfort and friendship along with the goodies in the bag. You see Joan will need the blanket, beanie, lip balm, journal & pen, for sure she will use the tissue, essential oils and the cup but there isn’t any substitute for the support and love that the team from CR brings. The team is able to use their own personal experiences and faith to connect with these women on a physical and spiritual level that just can’t be attained in a medical setting.

Sheila Romanski is self admitted walking and talking miracle a four time cancer survivor, she is the founder of Crystal Roses Inc., a non profit 501 3 c corporation Corona California. Sheila’s life and Joan’s life weren’t so different on the outside. The fact remained on the inside Sheila had an incredible amount of support there for her when the times got really tough.  She had her family, friends and her church all helping and coming along side her so she never felt alone no matter how hopeless she felt. Joan just didn’t have that type of support system available to her. That is when Sheila saw an important need she knew how to fill for these women.

The team at Crystal Roses Inc is dedicated to making a difference and inspiring women and children by giving them hope, encouragement, love, prayer and support. The services and the team have expanded since Crystal Roses was founded in 2011. A new addition to the team is CRyouth to expand their outreach to include children dealing with cancer or other similar illnesses. Some of the services they now offer are breast tattooing and organic skincare, wig fitting help, meal planning and aroma therapy. Sheila said that the big vision is to have a home/office the ladies can come to for these services and not be in the sterile cold medical environment.

To learn more about how to request a Comfort Tote for yourself or a loved one, please contact Sheila at 951-205-8671 or email us at: crystalroseshelps@gmail.com If youd like to contribute funds toward providing Comfort Totes for others, you can donate here as well. All donations are tax deductible.

Herbed Chicken Over Zucchini Risotto

with Shallot and Blistered Tomatoes

By Hello Fresh

 

Cooking Time: 35 mins

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 510 Calories

Ingredients:

  • Shallot- 2
  • Dill- ¼ oz
  • Zucchini- 4
  • Grape Tomatoes- 8 oz
  • Chicken Breasts- 24 oz
  • Herbs de Provence- 2 tbsp
  • Italian Cheese Blend- 1 cup
  • Sour Cream- 4 tbsp
  • Whole Wheat Pita- 2

1  PREHEAT AND PREP.   Wash and dry all produce. Preheat oven or toaster oven to 400 degrees. Halve, peel, and thinly slice shallot. Pick dill fronds from stems and roughly chop; discard stems. Grate zucchini using the large holes of a box grater.

2  BLISTER VEGGIES.    Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add shallot and cook, tossing, until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add tomatoes and increase heat to high. Cook until tomatoes are blistered and shallot is crisp at edges, 3-5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.

3  BUTTERFLY CHICKEN.   With your hand on top of one chicken breast, cut ¾ of the way, parallel to cutting board, stopping before you slice through completely. Open it up, cover with plastic wrap, and pound with a mallet or heavy pan until an even thickness throughout. Repeat with other chicken breast.

4  COOK CHICKEN.   Wipe out pan used for veggies and heat a drizzle of olive oil in it over medium-high heat. Season chicken all over with salt, pepper, and herbs de Provence. Add to pan and cook until browned and cooked through, 3-5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside to rest. TIP: Loosely cover chicken with foil to keep warm.

5  COOK ZUCCHINI.   Rinse out same pan and heat a drizzle of olive oil in it over medium-high heat. Add zucchini and cook, stirring frequently, until tender, 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in Italian cheese blend, sour cream, and half the dill. Season generously with salt and pepper.

6 PLATE AND SERVE.   Cut pita in half and toast in oven or toaster oven until warm and slightly crisp, 2-4 minutes. Divide zucchini mixture between plates along with veggies. Top with chicken and garnish with remaining dill. Serve with pita on the side.

The Solar Eclipse: Part 1

By Mark Hopper

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

 

Illegal Firework Activity In Chino Continues Unabated

By Anthony Chan

 

Chino – Illegal fireworks have continued to problem in Chino for the last few years. According to Section 8.12 of the Chino Municipal Code, “The sale of ‘Safe and Sane’ fireworks shall be permitted within the city during the period beginning on the 1st day of July and ending at nine p.m. on the 4th of July of each calendar year.” However, City officials have noted that fireworks continue to go on well beyond the limits set by City laws.

Illegal fireworks are a problem because they are safety hazards that can cause fires that threaten homes and they can injuries to children, bystanders, and onlookers.

Linda Reich, Director of Community Services in Chino, has reported that there were seven recent fires that were caused by fireworks and related activities- two grass fires and 5 container fires. The Fire District also received a paramedic call for injuries resulting from an exploding firework.

Chino fines people who possess or use illegal fireworks $1000, but the fine does not appear to be effective and less than half of the fines have been paid. City officials have looked to other solutions such as charging more for infractions, but California state law sets a maximum fine the City can charge for misdemeanors. At a recent Community Services Commission meeting, Commissioner James Espinosa asked if offenders could be put in jail. Linda Reich replied that offenders could not be put in jail, and that there were people committing much larger crimes with much smaller fines.

In order to increase enforcement, Chino Police has increased the police force from 42 officers in 2016 to 51 officers in 2017. Chino Police has also conducted undercover operations to confiscate illegal fireworks on Craigslist with total poundage of fireworks seized tripling from 2016.

Although Chino Police has stepped up enforcement, illegal fireworks continue to be a problem in Chino, because surrounding cities – namely Chino Hills and Ontario – have outright banned the use of legal and illegal fireworks for safety reasons. In the past year, 64 citations have been issued for the possession or use of illegal fireworks, with 40 of the citations issued to Chino residents, 1 repeat offender and 23 citations issued to nonresidents.

Part of the problem may lie in the size of Chino residents’ backyards. Many homes along Chino Ave. are on half acre lots, and the ability for residents to evade police enforcement by setting off fireworks in their backyards makes enforcement difficult.

Residents with ideas for how to address illegal fireworks in Chino are encouraged to contact the Chino Community Services Department at (909) 334-3256 or email at communityservices@chino.org. To report the use of illegal fireworks in Chino, please contact Chino Police Department at (909) 628-1234.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 9.4.17

The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire.Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: 9.2.17WeeklyVer2

History 101

Photo courtesy: Google Images

September 04, 1886: Geronimo Surrenders

 

By History.com

On this day in 1886, Apache chief Geronimo surrenders to U.S. government troops. For 30 years, the mighty Native American warrior had battled to protect his tribe’s homeland; however, by 1886 the Apaches were exhausted and hopelessly outnumbered. General Nelson Miles accepted Geronimo’s surrender, making him the last Indian warrior to formally give in to U.S. forces and signaling the end of the Indian Wars in the Southwest.

Geronimo was born in 1829 and grew up in what is present-day Arizona and Mexico. His tribe, the Chiricahua Apaches, clashed with non-Indian settlers trying to take their land. In 1858, Geronimo’s family was murdered by Mexicans. Seeking revenge, he later led raids against Mexican and American settlers. In 1874, the U.S. government moved Geronimo and his people from their land to a reservation in east-central Arizona. Conditions on the reservation were restrictive and harsh and Geronimo and some of his followers escaped. Over the next decade, they battled federal troops and launched raids on white settlements. During this time, Geronimo and his supporters were forced back onto the reservation several times. In May 1885, Geronimo and approximately 150 followers fled one last time. They were pursued into Mexico by 5,000 U.S. troops. In March 1886, General George Crook (1829–90) forced Geronimo to surrender; however, Geronimo quickly escaped and continued his raids. General Nelson Miles (1839–1925) then took over the pursuit of Geronimo, eventually forcing him to surrender that September near Fort Bowie along the Arizona-New Mexico border. Geronimo and a band of Apaches were sent to Florida and then Alabama, eventually ending up at the Comanche and Kiowa reservation near Fort Sill, Oklahoma Territory. There, Geronimo became a successful farmer and converted to Christianity. He participated in President Theodore Roosevelt’s inaugural parade in 1905. The Apache chief dictated his autobiography, published in 1906 as Geronimo’s Story of His Life. He died at Fort Sill on February 17, 1909.

 

Riverside Medical Clinic Simplifies Healthcare

Riverside Medical Clinic–Eastvale is located in the Cloverdale Marketplace, at 12742 Limonite Avenue. They can be reached at (951) 683-6370, or visit www.RiversideMedicalClinic.com.

Riverside Medical Clinic–Eastvale is located in the Cloverdale Marketplace, at 12742 Limonite Avenue. They can be reached at (951) 683-6370, or visit http://www.RiversideMedicalClinic.com.

By K.P. Sander

 

Eastvale – The Riverside Medical Clinic has a long history of providing exemplary health care to patients throughout the Inland Empire.

Housing some of the area’s leading physicians, Riverside Medical Clinic’s five locations provide the latest in medical treatment and technologies to help ensure that the very best in health care is available.

Riverside Medical Clinic’s newest location in the city of Eastvale offers primary medical care for adults and children. With onsite Urgent Care, Imaging, and Laboratory services, this clinic can meet the majority of medical needs. Should a specialist be required, their Brockton Clinic is just minutes away in Riverside.

Physicians specializing in Family Practice, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics and Gynecology and Pediatrics are part of the Eastvale team, with Urgent Care hours available on the weekends.

In addition, to help facilitate your health care outside of business hours, Riverside Medical Clinic offers a secure, online connection with your doctor’s office so you can schedule appointments, request prescription refills, review your health history, and much more.

Riverside Medical Clinic in Eastvale is open Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Additional hours for Urgent Care and Imaging are available Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. They are located at 12742 Limonite Avenue, in the Cloverdale Marketplace next to Ralph’s Grocery Store. For more information, call (951) 683-6370, or visit http://www.RiversideMedicalClinic.com.

Riverside Medical Clinic…Legendary Care.

 

26 Year Old Substitute Teacher Arrested for Illegal Sexual Conduct with a Minor

Full NotificationDATE/TIME: September 2, 2017/ 7:35 p.m. INCIDENT: PC 289(a)(1)(c) Digital Penetration With A Foreign Object On A Minor; PC 288(a)(c) Oral Copulation With A Minor 14-Years

LOCATION: Several locations within the City of Yucaipa

SUSPECT(S): Trevor Jack Trathen, WMA, 26 years of age, resident of Yucaipa  

VICTIM(S): Confidential Female Minor

SUMMARY: On Thursday, August 31, 2017, staff at the Yucaipa High School became aware of allegations regarding a student who had an inappropriate relationship with an employee of Yucaipa-Calimesa joint unified school district. The school immediately reported the allegations to the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Yucaipa Station and to San Bernardino County Children and Family Services. Detectives at the Yucaipa Station contacted the Sheriff’s Specialized Investigations Division – Crimes Against Children Detail (CACD) for assistance. Detectives immediately launched an investigation, gathered evidence, and conducted numerous interviews. Detectives learned Trathen had participated in illegal sexual conduct with the victim in February and March of 2014. At the time, Trathen was a coach at the Yucaipa High School and met the victim while she was a student at the school. Trathen was a substitute teacher at the Yucaipa High School at the time of this investigation, however he has been removed from the Yucaipa/Calimesa School District Substitute System.  

Trathen was arrested on September 2, 2017, at about 12:02 a.m. and booked at the Sheriff’s Central Detention Center for oral copulation with a minor 14-years of age and penetration with a foreign object on a minor 14 years of age. He is being held in lieu of $200,000 bail. Detectives are releasing Trathen’s booking photo in the event there are additional victims or witnesses.   

Refer: Detective Josette Tracy or Sergeant Dana Foster

Station: Specialized Investigation Division – Crimes Against Children Detail

Phone No. 909-387-3615

Case No. 601700102

JOHN McMAHON, Sheriff-Coroner

San Bernardino County Sheriff-Coroner Department

Yellow Fever Mosquito Detected in Chino Hills

By Anthony Chan

 

Aedes aegypti, commonly known as the yellow fever mosquito, has been detected in Chino Hills, according to the West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, a public health agency managing the outbreak. Enhanced surveillance was triggered on August 21st as a response to a resident’s complaint of daytime biting mosquitoes, and traps were placed near Slate Drive and Agate Road in Chino Hills.

Yellow fever mosquitoes are small mosquitoes with white bands on their legs, says a press release by the West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District. “[Aedes] prefer to lay eggs in man-made receptacles such as tires, fountains, potted plants, and birdbaths.” Their eggs are laid “on the sides of containers, usually just above the water line, and can withstand drying and heat for up to 12 months. When the eggs meet with water, they activate and hatch.”

Yellow fever mosquitos are a known transmitter of numerous diseases including: the West Nile virus, dengue, and Zika virus. The mosquitos have “unique biting and egg laying habits” that give the mosquitoes the potential to “spread rapidly and introduce previously unseen human disease to our area.”

Brian Reisinger, a spokesman for the West Valley Mosquito and Vector Control District, says that they are currently conducting trapping and testing operations to determine the extent and severity of the infestation. The agency will be testing captured mosquitoes for West Nile Virus and other vector-borne diseases.

In order to combat further spread of yellow fever mosquitos, residents are advised to dump all standing water commonly found in flower pots, bird baths, trash cans, old tires, and clean the containers thoroughly. Also, the water in pet’s dishes should be changed frequently and pools and spas should be properly maintained.

To avoid bug bites, residents are advised to make sure window screens are in good repair and to wear mosquito repellent while outdoors. “The Centers for Disease Control recommends using a repellent containing Picaridin, DEET, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, or IR3535,” according to the press release.

Please report any green pools, standing water, or day-biting mosquitoes to the District at 909-635-0307 or online at http://www.wvmvcd.org.

 

 

 

 

 

Back to School Time: Classes Begin in Walnut Valley

By Kelli Gile

 

WALNUT, CA—On Monday morning, backpacks, books, and school bus rides, signaled the end of summer vacation in Walnut Valley Unified School District.

About 14,300 students in transitional kindergarten through high school arrived on campuses to begin the 2017-2018 school year.

At Maple Hill Elementary, third grade teacher Lisa Peterson threw a Happy New School Year party for her class.

During the summer, she mailed the children invitations to the unique first-day bash, complete with instructions to bring their “enthusiasm and love for learning.”

Students found party hats, noisemakers, and colorful leis on desks when they arrived in the new classroom.

After enjoying mini muffins, apples with caramel dipping sauce, strawberries, and Capri Sun drinks, (because every party needs refreshments!), the class gathered under a giant balloon drop bag and began a traditional New Year countdown.

“10, 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, 2, 1!” they chimed in union.
Then as 100 balloons magically floated down from above, the children began blowing their horns and shouting “Happy New School Year!”

“I wanted the day to be more than just rules and procedures. When my students’ parents ask about their first day, I want them to be able to tell them that it was the best day ever!” Peterson shared.

“It was great! thought it was just going to be studying, but we had treats,” 3rd grader Luna Sun commented about the surprise party.

“It’s something I hope they will remember for years to come,” added Peterson.

“Making an ordinary day extraordinary is what it’s all about!”

At Quail Summit Elementary, teachers and staff welcomed students with high-fives and hugs as they paraded onto the Diamond Bar campus.

“The energy coming into Quail Summit was felt by both staff and students as they started the new school year,” said new Principal Frances Weissenberger.

“What a joyful way to welcome our students and families!” added second grade teacher Kathy McLean.

At Collegewood Elementary in Walnut, teacher Kim Horn helped her students begin making lasting connections.

During a Just Like Me activity, each 4th grader received a small tub of Playdoh with instructions to create something they like to do.

The youngsters molded beach scenes, ice cream cones, soccer balls, motorcycles, and more.

As students took turns sharing their interests, classmates who liked to do the same things stood up and said “just like me!”

“The goal of the project is to start building community so that the kids understand that they have lots in common with their classmates,” Horn said.

“It is also fun and a way to lower the kid’s stress on the first day of school!”

Chaparral Middle School 29-year veteran-educator Gary Imai plans to engage his social studies classes by offering numerous hands-on manipulatives.

“It makes the learning more interesting than just reading from a textbook,” he offered.

Imai, who taught 7th graders for over a decade, will be working with 6th grade students again this year.

He’ll kick off with Ancient History lessons and students will soon be digging through sand to hunt for “fossils.”

During the summer, Imai found some old teaching treasures while rummaging through his attic.

“I thought, I can still use these because history doesn’t change!” he quipped.

Over 50 new educators were hired for the new school year, including Walnut High School environmental science teacher Alyssia Infante.

“It was exciting and a lot of fun meeting my students and working with the amazing staff on campus,” she offered.

Infante, the daughter of a Walnut Valley educator, chose to pursue teaching so she could share her passion for science with students.

Her most memorable moment on the first day was arriving on campus and being greeted by the teens she worked with as a student teacher.

“They all wished me a good luck and were eager to look at my classroom and tell me about their summer!” she said.

“I am looking forward to a wonderful first year!”

Jonathon Chung, a new 7th grade Language Arts teacher at Chaparral, also stepped in front of his first class on Monday.

“I was too used to substitute teaching and informing the students that I would be their teacher for the day.  To get up there and tell them I would be their teacher for the rest of the semester was kind of a, ‘No duh,’ moment for a lot of them,” he said.

Chung hails from a family of Walnut Valley educators and said he has always taken great pride in the work they have done.

He also applauds the entire Chaparral staff for “popping in” to offer their help while he was setting up his classroom.

“It is a very friendly and caring staff and I am fortunate to be able to work at this wonderful campus.”

After a morning recess at Collegewood Elementary, Jayne Knight’s kindergartners were sitting crisscross applesauce-style on the carpet as she delivered rules for being good listeners.

The wiggly youngsters immediately began raising their hands to ask some pressing first day questions.

“Can I get a drink of water?”  “Do we have to take a nap after lunch?” “Do we have to come back tomorrow?”

Yes, and just 179 days to go. Welcome back and have a wonderful school year!

 

The Boy From Holland

By Michael Armijo

 

After two children, I felt that it was time to think about our “child bearing years.” We had to make a decision: Should we have another child or should we hang up our parental days? Soon after, friends of ours were pregnant and we were excited about having children. And then something happened that changed our minds…

Down Syndrome is a genetic disorder that results in varying degrees of physical and mental retardation. The disorder occurs as a result of extra genetic material. In most people, the genes are contained on 23 pairs of chromosomes, for a total of 46 chromosomes. Most people with Down Syndrome have an extra copy of the No. 21 chromosome, for a total of 47 chromosomes. Scientists aren’t sure what causes the extra genetic material to be passed from parent to child, nor how the extra genetic material causes Down Syndrome. An estimated 1 in 800 infants is born with Down Syndrome. A woman’s chance of giving birth to a child with Down Syndrome increases with age. The chance of having a baby with this syndrome is: 1 in 1,250 for a 25-year-old woman; 1 in 378 at age 35; and 1 in 30 at age 45.

Our initial reaction to our friends having a Down Syndrome baby was shock; we wondered how this could’ve happen. We felt that this was a heartbreak, an unhappy time for our friends to have to endure, but now we feel differently…

Someone shared a story with me about a 10-year-old boy who thought he was going to Paris. He was so excited because he was originally from Paris and he was looking forward to being with people who were just like him. He had read about the wonderful experience of Paris and was prepared to do all the things people do when they get there. He boarded the plane, set his hopes high for the beautiful land and experience, but was tragically shocked when his plane landed in Holland. He wanted so bad to experience Paris, and to him, Holland was such a disappointment. But then he opened his eyes and noticed something special about Holland:

He noticed the beautiful land, the wonderful culture. He noticed that people were different in Holland than they were in Paris, but they were just as beautiful. They had a different lifestyle, a different way of life, a different outlook. They were special, and they saw things in a special way. To him, Holland was a fantastic place of uniqueness and joy, a land of unconditional love. He saw things that were just unimaginable in Paris, he experienced feelings he never knew he could experience.  This 10 year old boy fell in love with Holland, the culture was just so beautiful, far too incredible of an experience to ever forget.

I believe we need to think of each element in life before we pass judgment, or come to a conclusion. I believe that we need to understand what life means to people, as it holds different meanings to different individuals. What we may think is misfortune, can sometimes be opportunity. As my friend, who bore a child that is different from the majority of our world, now has the incredible opportunity to experience a love that others may never be able to understand. He and his wife will see life through the eyes of true believers of love, realizing what it really means to love a child, unconditionally, free from judgment. God has given them an opportunity to feel a life that others will never have the opportunity to experience. He will still love his child for his athletic ability, for his academic success, and for his professional goals, but on a different level of accomplishment. He will see his child excel, and he’ll always feel a childlike warmth of love from him. He will get the opportunity to really feel a different love from his child for his incredible emotions, his powerful hugs, his protected innocence, and his honest love. My friend will see life like a shining light directly from God. He will see, and experience, the gift of life as it was intended to be experienced, from the soul of his heart.

I can honestly say that I too see life from a different light. When I see that child and his loving smile, when I see him laugh with his powerful giggle. When his eyes light up with a pure sense of wonder, when his little hand fits into the palm of our own. When friends hold him and feel his incredible sense of care, when I watch them melt while he’s in their arms. Who would’ve thought that this little child, who is different than my own, would bring so much love into a life, a unique love greater than any other child could. This little bundle of joy has taught me so much about unconditional love.

So now I no longer judge others because of their difference, I first look at their beauty. I now watch for the opportunity instead of the circumstances. I look at the brightest way possible to overcome a once-thought-as-difficult situation. And with this philosophy, I now see a side of life that calls me to a different light. I now feel powerful smiles, warm hugs, and wonderful opportunity. And all of this, the joy, the love, the understanding, because of a simple little boy who now comes from Holland.

Mandarin Taste: Diamond Bar’s Most Authentic Chinese Cuisine

Mandarin Taste is located at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar. For reservations, or more information on special entertainment with actress, Lipo Li, call (909) 861-1819. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Mandarin Taste is located at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, in Diamond Bar. For reservations, call (909) 861-1819. Open daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Lunch: 11 am – 3pm Dinner: 5pm-9pm.

By Staff Reports

 

Diamond Bar – If you are looking for a wonderful meal, look no farther than Diamond Bar’s most authentic Chinese restaurant, Mandarin Taste. For over 33 years, Mandarin Taste has brought quality service and traditional Chinese cuisine to the Diamond Bar community, and a yelp favorite.

The restaurant has thrived because of the many mouth-watering dishes it serves and the family-friendly atmosphere that keeps people coming back for more. Skip slaving over the stove all day, or cooking after a long day at the office. Mandarin Taste hopes to make every day less stressful and more enjoyable for you while you feast and share memories with your loved ones.

They have added freshly made items to their menu; honey walnut shrimp, lemon chicken, and sweet and sour pork chops. From Peking duck and Hunan lamb to customer-favorites pork fried rice, wonton soup and orange-flavored chicken, guests will definitely feel lucky getting their grub on at Mandarin Taste. There’s an abundance of tasty food options to satisfy every palate. You can take advantage of their Lobster special, normally $30.00/lb now $16.99/lb.

The restaurant’s owners and staff want everyone who comes to their establishment to relax and enjoy themselves over the delectable food.

“We’re like a family restaurant,” said restaurant manager Chi Young, when describing the feeling that customers get when visiting the long-lasting eatery.

“People are always smiling [here],” said Young.

The restaurant holds a very popular champagne brunch on Sundays.  The champagne is all-you-can-drink and freshly made California rolls and Ginger lobster that is made by a Japanese master chef, have been added to the menu.  All-you-can-eat buffets are available as well.

Mandarin Taste also serves traditional and specialty cocktails. If customers can’t come in to enjoy the pleasant ambience, they have the option to order food for carryout. Share the love and give your family and friends Mandarin Taste gift certificates, available year round!

For more information, please call (909) 861-1819, or just stop by their location at 23391 E. Golden Springs Drive, Diamond Bar. You can also visit their website at http://www.mandarintasterestaraunt.com.

Lost Love

By Michael Armijo

I stood there in the courtyard, I waited.  Her little eyes, her bright smile, her warm hugs, I was waiting for them all.  It would be just a few minutes before that bell would ring, it would be just a few minutes before my little love of life would run out smiling, wrapping her arms around me proclaiming, “Daddy, I love you.”

The bell rang and I stood there.  I watched, I waited.  I sought her out, but she didn’t show.  Hundreds of kids ran by and I made eye contact with each and every one of them.  There wasn’t a chance in life that she would’ve gotten by me.  My mind knew what she looked like, what she resembled, any similarities in her characteristics.  I was like a machine, scanning the crowd, like a robot with a mission.  I was waiting for someone who made my life complete, who I had given my heart to, who I trusted my feelings, my spirit, my life.

After the four hundredth kid passed me by, I felt a sensation of panic.  I felt a sense of fear.  I was afraid that I had lost one of the only things in life that I trusted, an entity in life that I knew loved me, unconditionally, and who would be there to the end.

When I felt that panic, when I felt the fear of losing someone I really loved, I wondered why?  Why did I feel so fearful, why was I so afraid?  Why did I feel such a sense of panic?  And then I remembered what had happened …

I remember my mother, my father, my family.  I remember how much they loved me, how they took care of me.  I remembered giving my eight-year-old heart to those who I thought I could trust.  And then I remembered how one day my life changed.  I still don’t recall how, and I still can’t understand why.  But for some strange reason, when I was growing up, my life was filled with love and joy, and then one day it was all taken away.  All that I knew as a child, all that I trusted, was ripped from my heart, and then ripped from my soul.  And no one explained to me why.

After the inconsistency of that environment, I found new love from girlfriends in high school.  And then they too, like my family, left me, and took parts of my heart with them.  I remember, at 16 years of age, standing in the aisle of Sav-on stocking shelves, while tears poured from my eyes.  I was hurt, I was devastated, I was alone. Again, someone whom I gave my heart to had taken a piece of my inner self.  And again, they left without a word.

It took so long for me to love again, to fully trust people, but somehow I did. I began to give my heart, or what was left of it, to others whom I felt I could trust.  I slowly began to rebuild my life, and finally I had.  Or so I thought…

The way I felt that day when I couldn’t find my daughter, that sleeping giant of fear woke up and looked around.  I remembered the pain, and the sorrow of how I felt, I remembered how much love hurt.  I guess that when I waited for her, those feelings of abandonment returned, and I was so afraid of losing yet another love in my life.  I didn’t have much heart left to lose, I couldn’t stand to go through what I had experienced so many times, and so many years ago.  But I faced those demons of fear and abandonment and grew from my pain.  I simply refused to let my past interfere with my future.  I’ve worked too hard to let irresponsible acts of yesterday interfere with what I’ve built today. That day, I found my daughter, and I faced my fears.

And as each day passes, I thank God for the opportunity to feel feelings and emotions that some people will never feel.  I thank God for being able to enjoy my life with a smile and a hug.  More importantly, I thank God for allowing me to understand that someday I may lose the ones I love, but not to fear, because today is the day I enjoy their presence, their love, and their joy.  And when they’re gone, I still have wonderful memories that I will make today, so that I can remember tomorrow.  And some day, I know God will give the world a beautiful place in their soul, like he has given me.  A place that sits in my heart free from past pain, free from fear and abandonment, and free from lost love.

Clark’s Nutrition “Live Better” Health Tip: Step Right Up!

By C Doussett MPH, RDN

 

Good news for anyone currently writing or planning on writing a diet book. There is enough consumer confusion and low-powered studies on so many aspects of diet and nutrition, that a well-thought out title and one celebrity endorsement is all you need. Is that to say that diet books don’t work if you work them or have their place on our bookshelves (or mobile reading device)? Certainly they do, as long as we recognize universal patterns of weight loss techniques and subscribe to the notion that anything we are told to do is temporary, as we work out personal habits that lead to lasting change.

There are two aspects of almost every diet book sure to be present and in congruence. The first is the ever-so-imperceptible, yet ubiquitous introductory caloric deficit. Rapid weight loss is the hallmark of diet books and is attributed, at first, to caloric restriction and water loss. This weight loss is rarely fat loss (desired target), as it tends to be primarily water due to carbohydrate (carbs) restriction. Focusing on carb reduction does two things; firstly, many carbs we eat are water rich themselves either inherently or via water preparation and cooking methods. Secondly, once carbs are digested in the body they are stored with three times their weight in water along with ingested fluids. Lose the carbs and water follows! After carb restriction we factor in the prescribed “permissible” food recommendations which limit our food choices; thereby reducing total fat and sugar percentages and protein sources. Everyone seems to be in agreement that sugar consumption should be reduced, but fat intake percentages is a very personal number that needs to be arrived at dutifully. Diet hack alert: while most non-dieting Americans get enough protein from eating pizza, grain-based desserts, and chicken nuggets, most dieters do not. Dieters should prioritize protein either by eating some with every meal or, more exactingly, calculating how many grams are needed daily and ingesting larger amounts in fewer sittings (1/2 to 1-1/2 grams of protein per pound of bodyweight is an excellent starting point).

The second diet-book “trick-up-the-sleeve” is the imposition of order on chaotic eating patterns. Simply put, most of us tend to eat in a disorganized manner according to the dictates of our wants and not our goals. Choosing four or five nutritious meals and rotating them allows us to assess more accurately how we feel, how we perform, and how we sleep; all important outcomes when assessing our diets. Or we can learn about meal choices when eating out, or how to shop the periphery of a super market, or how protein in the morning tends to balance sugar cravings during the day. All very orderly impositions on our often hectic, chaotic, and stressful daily life.

Finally, since consumer trends have proven we like diet books and will continue to purchase them, here are some well-researched and easy-to-read book recommendations you may want to consider adding to your collection.

  • “The Art and Science of Low Carbohydrate Living”, Volek & Phinney. This is for individuals who may have become disenchanted with other approaches to weight loss and are looking to shake things up.
  • “The Hungry Brain”, S. Guyenet. For those looking for a little more science in their reading. Spoiler alert: carbs are not the enemy
  • “Always Hungry”, D. Ludwig. For individuals diagnosed with prediabetes or have a family history of diabetes or obesity: contains delicious recipes.
  • “The Complete Mediterranean Diet”, M. Ozner. This alluring diet has been well tested and modern day iterations provide excellent eating templates.
  • “Fork over Knives: The Cookbook”, D. Sroufe. Plant-based recipe book, companion to a thought-provoking documentary.

As always, have healthy day!

IUSD Announces Aid to Houston Students Affected by Harvey

(Inglewood, CA. . .). . . Inglewood Unified School District State Administrator Thelma Melendez de Santa Ana, Ph.D. and the Inglewood Unified School District Board of Education recently announced plans to assist the many students and families of the Huston Independent School District (HISD) who were overwhelmingly affected by Hurricane Harvey. IUSD along with school districts across the United States are joining other organizations in offering support to those in need.

To help students learn about the impact of natural disasters and how they can help mitigate the suffering of victims, IUSD Principals and Teachers have been encouraged to incorporate facts about Hurricane Harvey into their lesson plans and school activities. Many schools will actively assist by collecting donations and or fundraise during non-instructional time.  Additionally, Parents or PTA’s can support the effort by contacting their community schools to determine how best to assist.

According to a Huston Independent School District press release dated August 27th nearly 50 schools were flooded to some degree and are accepting donation of clothes, school supplies and money to help their students and families.

HISD’s immediate need is for children’s clothes of all sizes (new or gently used in clean, ready-to-wear condition), school uniforms and school supplies.

There are two ways that you can immediately help students and families in Houston:

1.             Clothing and Supplies

a.             All clothing and school supplies collected at IUSD schools or classrooms will be sent to:

HISD Harvey Recovery

C/o Delmar Stadium

2020 Magnum

Houston, TX 77092

2.             Monetary Donations

The HISD Foundation is accepting donations to provide financial assistance to students and families. Click the link below to donate:

•              Houston Independent School District: http://www.houstonisd.org/Page/164281

You can utilize any of the organizations below as they are also accepting monetary donations to support those in need:

•              Greater Houston Community Foundation Hurricane Harvey Relief: http://www.ghcf.org

•              Global Giving Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund: http://globalgiving.org/harvey

•              Save the Children: http://www.savethechildren.org

•              American Red Cross: https:www.redcross.org/donate/hurricane-harvey

For additional information regarding IUSD protocols for schools that are donating and collecting in response to natural disasters, please contact the IUSD Office of School and Community Relations at 310.419.2700.

Physical Argument Escalates Into A Stabbing In Chino Hills

By Anthony Saude

On Tuesday, August 22, 2017 at approximately 4:12 pm, Robert Thomas Ramirez was involved in a verbal argument with the victim in the backyard of a residence on the 15000 block of Ethel Street (Lower Los Serranos) in the city of Chino Hills.

There was an argument between two men that quickly escalated into fist fight. While the two were wrestling on the ground, Ramirez drew an unknown sharpened object and began stabbing the victim multiple times.

The victim sustained puncture wounds to his left triceps, both forearms and multiple lacerations to his face and back. The victim was able to call 911 and report that he had been stabbed and needed help said Sergeant Babel of the Chino Hills Police Department.

According to the victim, before Ramirez fled the scene he threatened to kill him. The victim said he feared Ramirez would be back to follow through with his threat. Ramirez fled the scene on a bicycle before the deputies arrived at the scene. The officers quickly began an area search and were rewarded for their efforts approximately one hour after the stabbing took place.

The quick acting efficiency of the Chino Hills Police Multiple Enforcement Team (MET), led them to Ramirez in the parking lot of the Los Serrano’s Country Club. Ramirez fled on foot and the officers had to pursue him on foot through the golf course. Ramirez was apprehended and taken into custody without any further incident.

Ramirez was booked at West Valley Detention Center for Attempted Murder and Criminal Threats. Bail was set  $1,075,000.00 and it has been verified with Sergeant Babel that as of August 24th at 1pm Ramirez is still in custody as of 1 pm. The victims name is being kept confidential for his and his family’s safety at this time. The case is still under current investigation and the district attorney can add charges if it turns up any new evidence.

 

Anyone with additional information about this crime is urged to call the

Chino Hills Police Department or WeTip at 1(800)78-CRIME.

 

CH Mobile Recreation Program Begins Fall Session

By City of Chino Hills

 

Chino Hills, CA — Chino Hills’ Mobile Recreation program is returning to local neighborhoods with a new fall schedule August 21st through December 8th (closed on major holidays). The self-contained recreation vehicle will visit various neighborhoods to provide fun activities in a safe environment for children from kindergarten through 6th grade. Kids can enjoy arts and crafts, sporting activities, outdoor games, board games, team-building activities, and healthy snacks. The Mobile Recreation van has a new stop this year, on Mondays at the City’s newest park, Pinehurst Park, located east of Butterfield Ranch Road at 5800 Park Drive.

Mobile Recreation is a free program that allows children to come and go as they please. However, participants are required to sign in and out, and each child must have an emergency card on file signed by a parent or guardian. The schedule is subject to change due to other events and/or weather conditions. Call the Field Conditions Hotline at (909) 364-2738 to determine if Mobile Recreation is cancelled for the day.

 

 

Mondays – New Location

3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Pinehurst Park

5800 Park Drive

 

Tuesdays

3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Butterfield Park

17671 Mystic Canyon Drive

 

Wednesdays

11:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Chino Hills Community Park

3280 Eucalyptus Drive

 

Thursdays

11:45 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Glenmeade Elementary School

15000 Whirlaway Lane

 

Fridays

3:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Alterra Park

4921 Soquel Canyon Parkway

What Ever Happened To Play?

By Nancy Stoops

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

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

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

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

Amazing Apricot Chicken

with Roasted Potatoes and Green Beans

 

By Hello Fresh

 

Cooking Time: 35 mins

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 500 Calories

Ingredients:

  • Fingerling Potatoes- 24 oz
  • Green Beans- 12 oz
  • Shallot- 1
  • Chicken Breasts- 24 oz
  • Thyme- 1/4 oz
  • Balsamic Vinegar- 4 tbsp
  • Apricot Jam- 1 oz
  • Chicken Stock Concentrates- 2

 

1  PREHEAT OVEN AND ROAST POTATOES.  Wash and dry all produce. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Cut potatoes in half lengthwise. Toss on a baking sheet with a large drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast in oven until tender and lightly browned, 20-25 minutes, tossing halfway through.

2  ROAST GREEN BEANS.  Toss green beans on another baking sheet with a large drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast in oven until slightly crispy, about 12 minutes.

3  PREP SHALLOT.  Halve and peel shallot, then finely mince.

4  COOK CHICKEN.  Heat a large drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Pat chicken dry with a paper towel, then season all over with salt and pepper. Add to pan and cook until no longer pink in center, 4-5 minutes per side. Remove from pan and set aside to rest.

5  MAKE SAUCE.  Add shallot, thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil to same pan over medium heat. Cook, tossing, until shallot is so, 2-3 minutes. Stir in balsamic vinegar and apricot jam. Let simmer until syrupy, about 1 minute. Stir in ½ cup water and stock concentrates. Simmer until thickened, about 3 minutes. Remove pan from heat, add 2 TBSP butter, and stir or gently swirl pan until melted.

6 PLATE AND SERVE. Discard thyme from pan. Season sauce with salt and pepper. Thinly slice chicken. Divide chicken, green beans, and potatoes between plates. Drizzle sauce over chicken and serve.