Author Archives: ABC Public Relations

Did You Know?

Three Ways to Smooth Up Your Fall

By Statepointdid-you-know-web

Fall can be full of stress between social engagements, work outings, and the frenzy of the school year. Here are some ways to navigate the season with confidence and style.

Smooth Style

Combat those final warm days by adding linen to your life, which will help you look cool and stay cool. It’s perfect for work or an outdoor wedding. When shopping, don’t forget it’s a very rigid fabric — you might need to try on one size-up.

“Linen is a key and underrated fabric for both men and women — it’s not just for the beach,” says Sabir Peele, creator and editor of men’s fashion blog “Men’s Style Pro,” who is partnering with BIC Razors to share his perspective on confidence and style. “For women, solid color linen pants can make other elements of your outfit pop. For guys, try out a linen shirt next time you have to wear a suit jacket. It’ll help you stay cool at formal outdoor events like work parties or weddings.”

Guys, remember, fashion and style is for the face, too. According to a recent national “Modern Manners” survey from BIC Razors conducted by Survata, 72 percent of millennial men asked agree that “being well-groomed” is an important part of being a gentleman. Whether it’s clean-shaven, a beard, moustache or goatee, Peele suggests trying out the BIC Flex 5 razor to create or maintain your signature look. Its precision edging blade is useful for shaping your unique facial hair style. For more information and style tips, visit BICFlexRazors.com.

Smooth Dating Moves

Dating creates occasions for both smooth — and unsmooth moves. One of the most telling moments during a relationship can be how you ask someone out on that first date. Even in the age of millennials tied to their smartphones, the importance of human contact is undeniable. When millennial men were surveyed and asked about the politest way to ask someone out on a date, 92 percent indicated they preferred a face-to-face conversation, listing dating apps as one of the least polite ways.

This season, take the classic dinner date in a different, but thoughtful, direction. Prepare food in advance and go on a picnic, which is a great opportunity for one-on-one conversation and showcasing your cooking skills. “Set the scene with music by packing your smartphone, Bluetooth or speakers. Although you’re in your neighborhood park, some Spanish tunes can whisk you both away to a ‘Piazza of Seville,’” Peele suggests.

If those cooking skills or time are lacking, don’t worry — grab prepared dishes from a local fresh market. And if you’re feeling exceptionally smooth, bringing your date to a movie or music in the park will lead to a few bonus points in your favor.

Create a Smooth Workout

In fall, many runners take a break from mundane indoor gyms to hit the streets. Pounding the pavement can exaggerate stress on muscles and joints. Don’t be sidelined with an injury. Try different outdoor workouts like running and hiking grassy hills, or biking a trail. Peele recommends moving your workout off land for a swim or kayaking adventure. With these smooth moves, you can enjoy the fall season with confidence.

Walnut Valley Salutes Teachers of the Year

By WVUSD

WALNUT, CA—Fifteen of Walnut Valley USD’s finest educators were honored this week during the 19th annual Salute to Teachers.

The 2015-2016 Teachers of the Year, one from each site, were chosen for putting “Kids First” each and every day.

Over 300 teachers, staff, family members, and local officials gathered for the celebration of excellence held at the Walnut High School Performing Arts Center on October 19.

Congratulations to the following Teachers of the Year:  Shannon Cooper – Castle Rock Elementary, Denise Loera – Chaparral Middle School, Christa Richard – C.J. Morris Elementary, Linda Freedman – Collegewood Elementary, Katherine Royer – Evergreen Elementary, Emily Clark – Diamond Bar High, Kathy Hurley – Maple Hill Elementary, Pam Leslie – Quail Summit Elementary, Frank De Anda – Ron Hockwalt Academies, Susan Willmering – South Pointe Middle School, Lauri Ujita – Suzanne Middle School, Sara Schilz – Vejar Elementary, Jill Takayama – Walnut Elementary, Corey Wicks – Walnut High School, and Kimberley Dalton – Westhoff Elementary.

Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor commended the dedicated group of educators for the work they do every day to support students.

“It is so special to formally recognize teachers for their hard work, commitment, compassion, and caring attitude,” he said.

Science and Independent Study teacher Frank De Anda was named the 2016 District Teacher of the Year at the culmination of the program.

De Anda said one approach to ensuring student success is building a sense of self-efficacy.

“What teachers do beyond the classroom matters.  It is more than the lessons we teach and the grades we give,” he commented.

“It is the relationships we form and interactions with our students that are key to building the social emotional skills that will prepare our students for adulthood.  I am proud to work in a district that values the whole child.”

The recognition event included personalized tributes, awards, and student entertainment by the Walnut High Men’s Ensemble and Chamber Singers choirs under the direction of Lisa Lopez.

Each Teacher of the Year received a golden apple bell award courtesy of the Walnut Valley Educational Foundation. Honorees received rolling carts filled with gift cards, school supplies, and certificates of achievement from Congressman Ed Royce, Senator Bob Huff, City of Diamond Bar, and City of Walnut.

A special thanks to our event sponsors On Pointe, Massage Envy, Chick-fil-A, Benihana Restaurant, Schools First Federal Credit Union, Chaffey Federal Credit Union, LifeTouch Photography, Farmer Boys, Julie’s Café, Mr. G’s Pizza, The Whole Enchilada, Rubio’s, L.A. Fitness, My Lunch Spot, Henry Woo Architects, Roule Construction, In-N-Out Burger, Starbucks, Yogurtland, and Chipotle,

The District Teacher of the Year was presented with an engraved award and grand prize package that included an interactive flat screen courtesy of OnPoint Innovative Learning Environments.

De Anda shared that being named Teacher of the Year for Alternative Education has been the highlight of his career.

“It is truly the biggest honor a teacher can receive and I could not be prouder to represent such a wonderful district!”

Recent Recalls

Staff Reports

  1. frozen-strawberries-webThe International Company for Agricultural Production & Processing (ICAPP) is voluntarily recalling certain lots of its frozen strawberries out of an abundance of caution in response to a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) investigation of an outbreak of Hepatitis A.back-to-nature-foods-web
  2. Back to Nature Foods, LLC is voluntarily recalling four (4) products because those products contain chocolate purchased from a third party supplier which was found to contain undeclared Milk that is not listed as an ingredient on the label.
  3. BMW of North America, LLC (BMW) is recalling certain model year 2007-2011 BMW X5 3.0si, X5 4.8i, X5 M, X5 xDrive30i, X5 xDrive35i, X5 xDrive48i and X5 xDrive50i, 2008-2011 X6 x Drive35i, X6 xDrive50i and X6 M, 2bmw-web010-2011 X6 ActiveHybrid, 535i xDrive Gran Turismo, 535i Gran Turismo, 550i xDrive Gran Turismo and 550i Gran Turismo, 2011-2012 528i, 535i, 535i xDrive, 550i and 550i xDrive and 2012 535i ActiveHybrid, 640i Convertible, 650i Convertible, 650i xDrive Convertible, 650i Coupe and 650i Coupe xDrive vehicles. The affected vehicles have in-tank fuel pumps that may have insufficiently crimped wire contacts.
  4. Mountain bike rear shock absorbers- The bicycle’s rear shockmountain-bike-web absorber outer sleeve can rupture, allowing the sleeve to come in contact with other bicycle parts or the rider, posing a fall and injury hazard.
  5. toy-vehicles-webChildren’s riding toy vehicles- A relay on the circuit board can fail causing the vehicle’s motor to overheat and ignite, posing fire and burn hazards.woodstove-web
  6. Quadra Fire® Explorer III wood stoves- When the top load lid of the stove is being used, the handle can become disengaged from the locked position, allowing the lid to unexpectedly slam shut on the consumer’s fingers.

America Recycles Day Nov 12

Staff Reports
Diamond Bar- Do you have old electronics just sitting in the corner? Take advantage of America Recycles Day! Diamond Bar residents will have the opportunity to rid their homes of obsolete electronics, unwanted textiles and unneeded confidential documents when the City holds its annual Eco Expo event in celebration of America Recycles Day.

They will be accepting the following:

  • Computers
  • Tablets
  • Laptops
  • Smartphones
  • Televisions
  • Printers
  • & more

Set to take place on Saturday, November 12 from 9:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the AQMD parking lot, this environmentally-themed event will feature a variety of information booths, collection areas and activities centered on green living and recycling.

AQMD is located at 21865 Copley Drive in Diamond Bar. For more information, visit www.diamondbarca.gov/greendb or contact the City’s Environmental
Services Division at 909.839.7015

 

Walnut Valley Board Honors Outstanding Student, Parent

BY WVUSD

Collegewood Elementary student Pitzil Milagro Avila Castellanos received the Super Star Student Award on October 19. Shown with Board President Helen Hall. Photo courtesy: WVUSD

Collegewood Elementary student Pitzil Milagro Avila Castellanos received the Super Star Student Award on October 19. Shown with Board President Helen Hall.
Photo courtesy: WVUSD

WALNUT, CA–The Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees honored a standout student and her mother during the October 19 meeting.

Collegewood Elementary 4th grader Pitzil Milagro Avila Castellanos received the Super Student Award for going above and beyond in her learning.

She excels in all content areas, acts with integrity, and consistently demonstrates thoughtfulness, shared Principal Mary Wendland.

This year, Pitzil Milagro started her own business to raise money for a playhouse and donated books to a kindergarten classroom.

Teachers describe Pitzil Milagro as kind, intelligent, motivated, responsible, and an out-of-the-box thinker.  Classmates say the super star student has a “golden heart.”

Pitzil Milagro aspires to become a doctor or a soccer player.

“I have no doubt that she will work to make her dreams come true,” Wendland added.

“She is an example of everything we value at Collegewood and she represents the very heart of our school.”

Collegewood parent Betsy Avila Castellanos, Pitzil Milagro’s mother, received the Partner in Education Award.

“She sets a wonderful example of what it means to live out commitment with heart,” said Wendland during the presentation.

Betsy serves on the school’s Community Club with a positive outlook and willingness to help in any capacity. Last year, she played a pivotal role in developing the successful Grades of Green recycling program

The dedicated parent also donates countless hours to ensure the school carnival is a success and a place where students can create lifelong memories with their families.

“She is truly a reminder of the good that exists in our community and it makes perfect sense that her daughter would share those same admirable qualities,” added Wendland. “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree!”

Straight Talk

People in my family try to make me feel guilty- A letter from Anna G.

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi N.D.

Q: Why do people in my family try to make me feel guilty or like I’m a bad person when I stand up for myself?  Isn’t this a good thing?

A: Personally, I think it’s a very good thing.  Keep in mind that some people don’t deal well with conflict and some people are just plain cowardly.  They may resent you for being able to do what they can’t manage to accomplish in their own lives.  Do not let this lack of approval stop you from taking care of yourself.

CH Police Department Arrest Man For Soliciting

Staff Reports

Chino –  A West Covina man was arrested on Thursday, October 27 for the illegal solicitation of pornographic photographs and videos of young girls.

Matthew Blanchard used various social media accounts to receive and ask for the images and videos. Detectives arrived at Blanchard’s residence with a search warrant and proceeded to confiscate the suspect’s electronic devices.

Blanchard’s booking photo is being released by Investigators as they believe more victims could be tied to the case.

Anyone with information regarding this incident, contact the Chino Hills PD at 909-364-2000. Anyone wishing to remain anonymous may call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-782-7463 or visit their website at http://www.wetip.com.

Chino’s Hidden Treasure: Clark’s Nutrition

Staff Reports

Clark’s is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. Stop by for yourselves and experience Clark’s great customer service, knowledgeable staff, and affordable pricing. Visit www.clarksnutrition.com.

Clark’s is open 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. every day. Stop by for yourselves and experience Clark’s great customer service, knowledgeable staff, and affordable pricing. Visit http://www.clarksnutrition.com.

Chino – Have you ever heard of Clark’s Nutrition? Imagine a Whole Foods, Sprouts, Trader Joes, and Nutrishop all under one roof… in your back yard, Chino! Clark’s Nutrition & Natural Foods Market is a rare find in the natural foods industry. If you haven’t discovered this amazing store yet, it is worth your time to investigate.

Marketing Director, Mike Barnett says, “Often people will tell us that they’ve heard of Clarks and they think it’s just another supplement shop, but once they walk inside our Chino store, they get what all the fuss is about.”

Clark’s stores not only have a huge selection of supplements (their Chino location has one of the largest supplement sections in the entire country), but they have a wide variety of organic grocery items, complete with gluten-free sections,  including Vegan and Vegetarian options, as well as a large selection of organic produce.

Want to get a free make-over with natural, cruelty-free make-up too? No problem, Clark’s has a make-up section that looks like something you’d see at a MAC make-up counter. Clark’s is the only retail partner with actress, Suzanne Somers, to offer her organic cosmetics and skin care line, SUZANNE Organics.

Clark’s is a pioneer in the health food world. They opened the doors of their first location in Riverside in 1972, long before health food became vogue. Today there are stores in Riverside, Loma Linda, Rancho Mirage and now Chino.

But have you ever been to a “health foods” store before and felt overwhelmed or weren’t sure where to start? Have you felt the opposite, like you knew more than the employee? Have no fear, Clark’s knows how refreshing it is to speak with health food store employees that know their stuff and are willing to share their knowledge.

The Clark’s slogan is, “Live better, we can help.”  How does Clark’s actually help people you ask? Clark’s has made their business thrive on helping to educate people about their health. Starkie Sowers, the Director of Education at Clarks says, “We have Nutritional Consultants at Clarks. These employees go through our 5 level in-house training program. It takes about 3 ½ years to get to a Level 5 at Clarks.” Clark’s takes education about health seriously. These knowledgeable (non-commission) Nutritional Consultants are one of the keys to why people love Clarks so much.

Clark’s is a great find for anyone looking to improve their health. They have competitive pricing, knowledgeable staff, a great product selection and a beautiful Chino location close to home.

Discover this Chino treasure located at 12835 Mountain Ave in Chino.

Traveling the World

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

Ever since I was a very small girl I always knew that I wanted to travel around the entire world.  It really all began when I was seventeen I graduated high school a semester early and spent three months in Europe.  At that point I became addicted to wanting to see the entire world.  Now I have just two more continents to go.  The plan is to see Australia this year and then as I turn sixty go to Antarctica.  I know I will always continue to travel even though I will have literally made it around the world very soon.

There are many ways to learn and I have experienced most of them.  Travel is a very unique way to learn because you literally become part of what you are learning.  There is no better to understand a country or its’ culture than to become immersed in it.  I have gotten to know people from so many different cultures and have received blessings from a holy person within each of these cultures.  I have also been part of many wonderful ceremonies and traditions, one of which involved dancing with goats in a Peruvian village.  I will never forgot my African chief my Thailand monk, all my shamans and all the other wonder spiritual beings that I spent time with being blessed.  I has been my honor!

I also make sure that with each journey comes with a close up wild life experience.  I have walked, fed and swam with 4500lb tigers.  I have trained elephants, swam with sea lions, sharks, and mantas.  I have had the head of a cheetah in my lap for a petting session.  This year I want to hold a koala and feed kangaroos.  I love my life and travelling really enriches it.

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

 

Yogurt-Marinated Chicken

With Rice Pilaf, Roasted Zucchini, and Cilantrorecipe-cropped-color

By Hello Fresh

On the menu for tonight is the furthest thing from a boring chicken dinner. Our chefs combined berbere (an Ethiopian spice blend with garlic, red pepper, cardamom, coriander, and fenugreek) with garlic and yogurt for a tangy marinade that becomes ever-so-slightly charred under the broiler. What are you waiting for? Get cooking!

Cooking Time: 35 min.

Servings: 2

Nutrition: Calories: 590 cal, Fat: 11g, Sat. Fat: 2 g, Protein: 54g, Carbs: 74 g, Sugar: 10 g, Sodium: 355 mg, Fiber: 5 g

Ingredients:

  • Yellow Onion- 1
  • Garlic- 2 Cloves
  • Zucchini- 1
  • Chicken Breasts- 12 oz.
  • Berbere Season- 1 tsp.
  • Greek Yogurt- 5.3 oz.
  • Basmati Rice- ¾ Cup
  • Chicken Stock Concentrate- 1
  • Lemon- 1
  • Cilantro- ¼ oz.
  • Olive Oil- 1TBSP

Preparation:

  1. Preheat and prep: Wash and dry all produce. Preheat broiler to high or oven to 500 degrees. Halve, peel, and dice onion. Mince garlic. Cut zucchini into ½-inch cubes. Combine chicken, berbere, half the yogurt, and a large pinch of salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Turn to thoroughly coat in marinade.

 

  1. Make the rice pilaf: Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a medium pot over medium-high heat. Add onions and garlic, and toss until softened, 3-4 minutes. Add rice and stir. Add 1½ cups water, a large pinch of salt, and stock concentrate. Bring to a boil, cover, then reduce to a low simmer until tender, about 15 minutes.

 

  1. Broil the chicken and toss the zucchini: Place chicken on one half of a lightly oiled baking sheet. Broil until slightly charred, 3-5 minutes. Meanwhile, toss zucchini in a medium bowl with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper.

 

  1. Bake the chicken and zucchini: Remove baking sheet from oven, flip chicken, and reduce heat to 425 degrees. Spread zucchini on other half of baking sheet. Bake until chicken is no longer pink inside and zucchini is tender, about 12 minutes.

 

  1. Make the lemony yogurt: Meanwhile, zest and halve lemon. Stir zest and a squeeze of juice into a small bowl with remaining yogurt. Thin with a Tablespoon or so of water. Season with salt and pepper.

 

  1. Finish the pilaf and serve: Coarsely chop cilantro, and stir half into rice pilaf. Serve zucchini and chicken on a bed of rice pilaf. Top with a dollop of lemony yogurt and a sprinkle of the remaining cilantro. Enjoy!

Jewelry Heist Suspects Wanted

Staff Reports

Chino- On October 27, two suspects entered the Superior Market located on 12375 Central Ave next to the Chino Police Department, where they stole from the Jewelry Store inside. The two male suspects also targeted the Superior Market located at 1130 West Sixth Street in Corona on October 31.

According to the Corona Police Department, the victim said two black male adult suspects entered the store and walked to the jewelry kiosk. The suspects asked about the jewelry and the employee opened the display case for them. As the employee briefly turned around, one suspect leaned over the counter and removed two trays of jewelry. Although a witness left before the Corona PD was able to arrive, the witness let the employee know that the suspects got into a white van and left the parking lot. The victim reported a loss of approximately $30,000 in merchandise.

The suspects were described to the Corona Police Department and video surveillance was released.

Video surveillance of the theft identified the two suspects as Deanthony Lamar Block and Dajuan Lee Calvin Robinson. The two are now wanted by four agencies; Corona Police Department, Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, Chino Police Department, and the San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department.

You may contact the Corona Police Senior Detective Robert Gonzalez at 951-817-5837 if you can provide any further information on the theft, as well

History 101

Nixon re-elected president  history-101-web

By History.com

Richard Nixon defeats Senator George McGovern (D-South Dakota) and is re-elected President of the United States.

With only 55 percent of the electorate voting, the lowest turnout since 1948, Nixon carried all states but Massachusetts, taking 97 percent of the electoral votes. During the campaign, Nixon pledged to secure “peace with honor” in Vietnam. Aided by the potential for a peace agreement in the ongoing Paris negotiations and the upswing in the American economy, Nixon easily defeated McGovern, an outspoken peacenik whose party was divided over several issues, not the least of which was McGovern’s extreme views on the war. McGovern had said during the campaign, “If I were President, it would take me twenty-four hours and the stroke of a pen to terminate all military operations in Southeast Asia.” He said he would withdraw all American troops within 90 days of taking office, whether or not U.S. prisoners of war were released. To many Americans, including many Democrats, McGovern’s position was tantamount to total capitulation in Southeast Asia. Given this radical alternative, Nixon seemed a better choice to most voters.

In other races, the Democrats widened their majority in Congress, picking up two Senate seats. Almost unnoticed during the presidential campaign was the arrest of five men connected with Nixon’s re-election committee who had broken into the Democratic Party’s national headquarters in the Watergate apartment complex in Washington, D.C. The Watergate scandal ultimately proved to be Nixon’s undoing, and he resigned the presidency as a result of it in August 1974.

 

Chino Hills High students throw birthday bash for lonely boy

BY CVUSD

Chino Hills- Students in Chino Hills High’s AVID college preparation program threw a surprise party Thursday (Oct. 27) for a Moreno Valley boy after they learned via social media that no one showed up for his birthday party.
AVID student Sadie Santillan came to class heartbroken after reading a Facebook post by Tyler’s mother, who said that she threw a party for her son and no one showed up. Tyler reportedly told his mother that he didn’t know why “he was here.” So his mother requested birthday cards for him to show that there were people who care.
Sadie shared the story with her AVID peers and the students decided to throw Tyler a birthday party. Taking the lead in organizing the event were Sadie and AVID students Shailee Wyzykowski, Sherilyn Dong, Shelby Galletta, and Manny Lares.
The party, attended by dozens of Chino Hills High students and staff members, included food and birthday games.

 

Artist Corner

“Life Is What You Make Of It”  artist-web

Elias “Eterno Champion” Chavira

By Racine Guajardo

Elias “Eterno Champion” Chavira is a Mexican American rapper from Compton, CA. He was originally born in Whittier CA, and then lived in East L.A. until about the age of 7, where he moved to Compton after the L.A. riots occurred.

At a young age Chavira developed a passion for music, saying, “I did my first freestyle at 11 years old when my cousin’s hyped me up to bust a flow. They inspired me to buy the latest Album by “2Pac” at that time, which was “All eyes on me”, after that I was stuck on Hip Hop.”

As he became a teenager, Chavira says, “My neighbor would come over my house and ask me to work on a mixtape with No Limit Records beats.” They recorded a few tracks; however the tracks hadn’t been released. After High School, he started free styling for fun. A friend suggested that Chavira should take it serious, so he introduced him to his uncle G.L. from Mil2Mil Records. He then recorded his first song the very next day. He made two albums with M2M record’s called “The Best of Ten” & “Worlds Apart”. Chavira rapped with M2M till about 2008.

After Chavira parted ways with Mil2Mil, he was able to focus on his own music. He came up with my own label S.M.O. (Sounds Made Original/Smoke Me Out) in 2008. Since then, he has produced 2 independent albums “Success is challenging”(2010) & “Inspired by Jealousy”(2012). As well as having a greatest hits album, that includes a catalog of his favorite songs between 2006-2016 Called “10 years in the making”.

Chavira talks about what sets him apart from others saying, “I’m not just out for the money; I’m building a strong loyal fan base. No voice overs (only the hook). I rap aggressive but I’m really a sweetheart.” Also saying, “My originality of bars is inspiring, uplifting, and catchy.”

Once he entered the hip hop scene, he started performing weekly and monthly; you can catch him performing till the end of this year and next year in 2017.  He performs locally in the greater Los Angeles area including Orange County.

Elias “Eterno Champion” Chavira can be found on multiple social media sites, Facebook: Eterno Champion, Instagram: Eternochampion, Soundcloud & Youtube.

Autumn Leaves

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Mark Hopper

My wife and I have dreamed for many years of going to New England to see the autumn colors.  This year we finally did it!

We flew into Boston and drove to a small town in southern Vermont.   We stayed at a cozy Bed & Breakfast hosted by a delightful couple.

The next morning, we were excited to see the many colors of autumn leaves right outside our bedroom window.

After a homemade breakfast, we drove north along state highway 100 up into the Green Mountains.  We learned later the name Vermont is the French word for green mountains!

We enjoyed a casual drive along the country roads.  The colors were amazing!  We took picture after picture but they did not accurately.capture the fabulous scenery.

After two nights in Vermont we drove on to northern New Hampshire.  We chose the famous Kancamagus Highway which threads its way from the Vermont border to Conway, New Hampshire.

This is one of the most popular scenic highways in New England.  The small, two-lane highway was lined with trees in full color.  They were bright red, sparkling yellow, brilliant orange and autumn gold.

During our two days in New Hampshire, we drove further north into the White Mountains and were amazed to see complete hillsides filled with color beyond description.  It was amazing!

It was like a symphony of color as far as you could see.  Every turn in the road revealed more spectacular beauty.  The hills really were alive with color and beauty.

We were fortunate to have great fall weather, too.  The clear blue skies and bright sunlight added to the vibrancy of the colors.

My wife and I ran out of words to describe the beauty of what we saw during those few days in New England.  It is a time we will never forget.

As we reflected on the beauty of the fall leaves, we were reminded of the creativity of God.  The Bible says that God created the universe and the world we inhabit.  His infinite power created the changes of the seasons and the beauty of our world.

In Psalm 19, it says, “The heavens declare the glory of God and the earth is His handiwork”.  I realize you may not have the opportunity to visit New England during the fall.

But, I hope you will watch for some autumn leaves in your neighborhood this year.  Take a moment to appreciate their beauty.  They remind us of His handiwork!

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.  Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.  For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit Efreedb.org.

Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries

By Chino Valley Fire District

The Chino Valley Fire District wants to remind you to change the batteries in your home smoke alarms when changing your clocks back one hour on Sunday November 6, 2016.

“Working smoke alarms are a safe and effective way to protect your family’s life in the event of fire.” says Fire Chief Tim Shackelford.

According to the National Fire Protection Agency, an estimated 890 lives could be saved each year if all homes had working smoke alarms. The Chino Valley Fire District offers residents the following tips to help ensure safety:

  • Install smoke alarms outside all bedrooms and on every level of your home
  • Test smoke alarms once a month by pushing the test button
  • Replace batteries in smoke alarms at least twice a year
  • Replace your smoke alarms every 10 years, or in accordance with manufacturer guidelines
  • Do not disable smoke alarms, even temporarily
  • Develop an emergency escape plan
  • Practice your emergency plan

For more information about Fire and Life Safety, visit our website at www.chinovalleyfire.org or follow us on social media @cvifd.

Turn On Your Headlights

mark-hopper-color-2x2By Mark Hopper

I have noticed that more and more cars are on the road with their headlights off.  This is especially dangerous in the early evening and as it gets dark outside.

I saw another car this evening driving dangerously with its headlights off and the driver seemed totally unaware.

Apparently, newer cars have a feature that turns the dashboard lights on inside these new cars, but the outside lights do not come on automatically.

In the good old days, the inside dashboard lights only came on when the driver turned on the outside headlights.  If it was dark inside the car, the driver realized that his headlights were not on either.

This new technology has created some very dangerous driving conditions.  I have seen many people driving with their headlights off.  But, because their inside lights are on, they don’t realize their headlights are not!

There is a passage in the Bible that relates this problem to our own lives.  In Matthew chapter seven, Jesus says that before we try to take a speck out of someone else’s eye, we need to remove the log in our own eye (Matthew 7:1-5),

In other words, before we point out the faults in the lives of other people, we should take a careful look at our own life and examine the faults in our own life

It is easy for us to notice when another car does not have its headlights turned on.  But, often we are not aware that our own headlights are off!

Two things cause serious problems in marriage.  The number one problem is a selfish attitude.  When people are selfish, a marriage will suffer.

The second major problem in many marriages is a critical attitude.  When one spouse focuses on the faults of the other, their marriage will suffer.

Before you start criticizing your spouse, stop and look in the mirror and see if there are things that you need to change in your own life.  As Jesus said in Matthew chapter seven, take the log out of your own eye first!

Let me encourage you to pay closer attention when you are driving.  Make sure your headlights are on when you drive in the evening and night.  For your safety and the safety of others.

And, when you are experiencing conflict in your marriage or other relationships, check your headlights first.  Are your headlights on?  There may be  some changes that you first need to make in your life!

Pastor Mark Hopper is from the Evangelical Free Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd.  Sunday services are 9 a.m. and 10:45 a.m.  For more information, call (909) 594-7604 or visit Efreedb.org.

 

Our Life

Leap Of Faith 

By Sarah Sanchez 

I worked for ABC Public Relations for the last nine years of my life. It was my very first job back when I was 16 years old; I rolled newspapers for some extra cash. I had a few other jobs but ultimately I stayed at ABC PR and went through a variety of different positions within the company. I worked hard to learn every aspect of the company because I just wanted to be a resource to our clients. Then eventually after all those years, I became Vice President of Operations.

Earlier this year, I was presented with an opportunity for a position at California Baptist University, which is where I received my Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology. The position was even in my field of study.  So I felt that this was a perfect opportunity to use my degree to advance in my career. There were a variety of other reasons for taking this job, such as I’d be able to get my Masters Degree almost paid for and I’d be working at the school that changed my own life. Deep down I knew I couldn’t pass up on this opportunity, but I’ll be honest, it was very hard for me to leave my position as VP.  I was leaving a company where I had so much responsibility and purpose, all in order to pursue a job that I had no idea if I’d even like. But I decided to take the position with a week and a half notice and I jumped into a world that I knew nothing about. I decided to take a leap of faith.

At first, it was extremely challenging to be in this new environment. I was with new people, doing new tasks, and in a place that was extremely out of my element. I will admit that I had moments of weakness. I had moments of frustration, crying in the bathroom, and regret for leaving my familiar job. I had a moment of doubt, wondering if I could do this new position and if I made the right decision.

But now that I’m two months in, I realized that this is what I was meant to do. If I had never taken that leap and jumped into a completely different world, I would’ve never been able to change the lives that I have changed so far at CBU. Recently, I had the opportunity to help a student receive the funds so she can pursue her dream of attending CBU to finish her education. She was so excited and filled with so much gratitude that it made me realize: this is why I’m here.

Sometimes it’s hard for us to take risks. I know it was extremely hard for me. But now that I’m on the other side of the worry tunnel, I realized that every bit of the struggles were worth it.

Maybe you have a job you need to leave, a dream you need to pursue, a place you want to visit, or a project you need to finish. Whatever it is, it’s time to stop procrastinating. Don’t put it off and don’t worry about the outcome anymore. Believe in yourself and believe that you can do it. It’s time to start today. It’s time to pursue your dreams. It’s time to take a leap of faith.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 11.05.16

The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills,2016-nov-5-weekly-cover
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:2016-nov-5-weekly-full

Mock Interviews are a “Win” for RHA Students and Local Businesses

By WVUSD

Photo courtesy: wvusd Ron Hockwat Academies students sharpened their business skills during mock interviews with local business representatives.

Photo courtesy: wvusd
Ron Hockwat Academies students sharpened their business skills during mock interviews with local business representatives.

Walnut –  Mock interviews with local, national, and international businesses were the much anticipated culmination of Ron Hockwalt Academies’ (RHA) first 2016-2017 School-to-Career event.

Students were “dressed to impress” when they met with representatives from Target, Spencer N. Enterprises, Schools First, Applebee’s, McDonald’s, Sysco, and PetSmart on October 11.

In an after-interview debriefing, Cindy Totten, President of Totten Consulting Group and Human Resource representative for Spencer N. Enterprises, said that RHA students “could surely teach something to our earlier millennial generation.” She added that RHA students were “enthusiastic and excellently prepared” for their interviews.

“RHA is such a small school that we can spend hours personally preparing students, much like you would find at a small private school,” commented Richard Root, English teacher and School-to-Career coach.

Students spent weeks developing and editing their resumes, practicing interview techniques, reviewing common interview questions, and researching visiting companies.

Other businesses in attendance agreed. Although these companies did not come offering jobs, the tune seemed to change throughout the course of the six rounds of interviews. Business cards and email addresses were shared with successful interviewees, while some businesses invited RHA students to proceed into a second round of interviews.

The mock interviews were the brainchild of Patricia Dimas, RHA’s Transition/Workability Specialist.

“In a nutshell, I just wanted to bring more to the table for our students at RHA,” Dimas stated.

“The best service I can offer our students is the tool of awareness to better equip them to make intelligent decisions.”