Author Archives: ABC Public Relations

Steer Clear of the 91!

Photo Courtesy of Google Images

Photo Courtesy of Google Images

Staff Reports

A full closure of eastbound and westbound 91 between the 71 and I-15 will occur from Friday, Feb. 19, 2016 at 9 pm to Monday, Feb. 22, 2016 at 4 am.  This 12-mile stretch of freeway sees over 280,000 cars per day, and that number is expected to jump to 425,000 by the year 2030, according to Joel Zlotnik of the Orange County Transportation Authority.

The 91 freeway is a valuable transportation corridor for thousands of motorists, and also serves hundreds of thousands of commercial and freight trucks as they travel inland from the ports of Long Beach and Los Angeles, according to Anaheim City Councilman Harry Sidhu.

The full weekend closure of the 91 will allow crews to perform three major construction activities: 1) Demolish the west side of the Maple Street Bridge over the 91; 2) Install support beams for the new westbound Maple Street flyover ramp bridge; and 3) Pave the new eastbound 91 alignment near I-15.

“By fully closing the roadway, we will be able to consolidate these significant construction efforts into one weekend, rather than multiple weekends or extending this over a month of weeknights,” said RCTC Executive Director Anne Mayer. “Consolidating the work activities within one weekend will reduce the number of closure hours by more than 50 percent. The project’s design-build method allows for flexibility in planning work, such as this weekend closure,” she said. Another benefit, Mayer noted, is that the full closure will help ensure the safety of the 91 Project crews and the traveling public by eliminating cars and construction equipment on the road at the same time.

More work will be occurring in the Maple Street area during the coming months, including reconstructing the Maple Street bridge and building the flyover connector ramp bridge. Crews will require nightly full closures of eastbound 91 for about a week after the weekend closure. During these closures, motorists will be directed to the eastbound 91 Maple Street off-ramp, and then east on Frontage Road to re-enter the 91 at the Maple/Paseo Grande on-ramp. Once the flyover ramp bridge is completed this summer, another full closure of the 91 may be conducted to remove the temporary support beams that will be placed the weekend of February 19-22.

Because of the impact that a full closure will have on this heavily traveled roadway, motorists are urged to “steer clear” of the area during this closure. To minimize major travel delays and impacts during the closure, RCTC strongly recommends that motorists plan ahead, avoid travel in the area or stay home. Motorists traveling on the 91, the 71 or I-15 near the project area during the closure period can expect travel delays of three to four hours. If travel cannot be avoided, motorists can use the 57, 60 and I-10 as alternate routes.

The Green River Road interchange will remain open to motorists, and during the weekend closure, emergency vehicles will be able to travel on the 91, as needed, to respond to police, fire and medical situations.  “Corona residents can rest assured that police, fire, CHP and ambulance personnel will be fully briefed about the weekend closure and are ready to respond,” Mayer said.

In case of rainstorms or inclement weather, the closure will be postponed to the next weekend, weather permitting.  For more information, please call the helpline at 877-770-9191, or visit http://www.sr91project@rctc.org.

Keep Your Family Cozy, We’ll Help With The Cost

Courtesy of SoCalGas

As temperatures dip lower, the cost for heating your home gets higher. We, at SoCalGas®, want all of the families in our community to get the heat and the help they need to stay healthy and warm this season. That’s why we want you to know about our family of customer assistance programs that can help you cover the costs to keep your family comfortable this winter.

If you or a loved one has a serious medical condition that requires using extra heat during cold weather, the Medical Baseline Allowance provides you with natural gas at the lowest rate. Your eligibility for this program is based on your medical need, not your income. Plus, you can still qualify for other assistance programs.

The California Rates for Energy (CARE) program offers eligible customers a 20 percent discount on their monthly natural gas bills. It takes just a few minutes to apply, and you’ll see the savings on your next bill.

The Gas Assistance Fund (GAF) provides a one-time grant of up to $100 toward the natural gas bill for customers who qualify.

One way to save money and make your home more energy efficient is through the Energy Savings Assistance Program. This program offers no-cost energy-saving home improvements to qualified renters and homeowners. Improvements include: Attic insulation, water heater blankets, door weather-stripping, minor window repairs and more.

Visit socalgas.com (search “ASSISTANCE”) to see the full list of customer assistance programs that can help you save money and conserve energy.

When heating your home during cool weather:

  • Thermostats should never be turned up high to heat a home quickly. The heater will stay on longer and waste energy.
  • Save up to 25 percent of your heating costs by installing or upgrading insulation in your attic and walls (may be covered by the Energy Savings Assistance Program)
  • For safety and efficiency, keep all heating vents and furnace registers free of dirt, lint and obstructions.

When cooking:

  • Don’t preheat your natural gas oven if you don’t have to.
  • Don’t open the oven door while food is cooking. You could lose up to 50 degrees in temperature, which wastes energy and money.
  • Keep oven and burners clean. A clean oven uses energy more efficiently.
  • Cook by time and temperature guides.
  • Cook several meals at the same time.
  • Use pots and pans that fit the range top. Pans that fit a burner absorb more of the energy, reducing the amount of heat lost.
  • Cover pots when cooking.

Southern California Gas Company is not responsible for any goods or services selected by customer. This program is funded by California utility customers and administered by Southern California Gas Company under the auspices of the California Public Utilities Commission. Program is available on a first-come, first-served basis, until program funds are no longer available. Other terms and conditions apply.

Corona: Police K-9 Retires

Courtesy of the Corona Police Dept.

Spike the K-9 RetiresAfter four and a half years of dedicated service to the citizens of Corona, Corona Police Department’s K9 Spike retires.
Spike is an eight-year-old Belgian Malinois, who was not only trained for patrol duties but was also cross- trained to detect the odor of narcotics. During Spike’s tenure, he found and apprehended several suspects, and he also had several narcotic finds which included the seizure of heroin, methamphetamine, and marijuana. When not fighting crime, he participated in over 100 public demonstrations at schools, hospitals, and community groups.
Spike’s handler, Corporal Chad Fountain, is a 15-year veteran who was recently promoted in July of 2015. Corporal Fountain was able to purchase Spike from the city and bring him home for retirement, where he will live out the remainder of his life with the Fountain family.

History 101

Queen Elizabeth II Becomes Monarch

By Carol Heyen

Photo courtesy: Google Images

Photo courtesy: Google Images

On February 6, 1952, after a long battle against lung cancer, King George VI of Great Britain and Northern Ireland died in his sleep at the royal estate at Sandringham. Princess Elizabeth, the oldest of the king’s two daughters and next in line to succeed him, was in Kenya at the time of her father’s death.  Upon George’s death, Elizabeth became queen.  She was formally crowned Queen Elizabeth II on June 2, 1953, at age 27.

Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary, born on April 21, 1926, and known to her family as Lilibet, was groomed as a girl to succeed her father. She married a distant cousin, Philip Mountbatten, on November 20, 1947, at London’s Westminster Abbey. The first of Elizabeth’s four children, Prince Charles, was born in 1948.

According to History.com, Elizabeth has understood the value of public relations since the start of her reign, and allowed her 1953 coronation to be televised, despite objections from Prime Minister Winston Churchill and others who felt it would cheapen the ceremony. Elizabeth, the 40th British monarch since William the Conqueror, has worked hard at her royal duties and become a popular figure around the world. In 2012, she celebrated 60 years as Queen with her Diamond Jubilee.  On September 10, 2015, Queen Elizabeth II became the longest reigning British monarch ever, surpassing the 63 years 7 months that her great-great-grandmother Queen Victoria spent on the throne.

The role of Queen in modern times, being that it is largely ceremonial, has come into question as British taxpayers have complained about covering the royal family’s travel expenses and palace upkeep. Still, the royals are effective world ambassadors for Britain and a huge tourism draw.

Here are some interesting facts about Queen Elizabeth II that you may not know:

  • She was the first head-of-state to use electronic mail, when in 1976, she sent her first email at a demonstration in Malvern, England;
  • She drove a truck in the Women’s Auxiliary Territorial Service, and is the only living head of state to have served in WWII;
  • She doesn’t have a passport or a driver’s license;
  • She paid for the material for her wedding gown with ration coupons;
  • She once woke up to find a stalker in her bedroom;
  • She loves the Pembroke Welsh Corgi dog breed, and has had Corgis since the 1930s;
  • She is an avid horsewoman
  • She has four children, eight grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.

You’ve Lost That Lovin’ Feeling…”

Tim Eaton

Tim Eaton

By Pastor Tim Eaton

We pass an old picture in the hallway.  We see friends begin a new love.  A romantic movie touches our hearts.

Whatever it is, we sometimes wonder where the love in our own life has gone.  It seems like most everything around us is designed to drain the last drop of romance or love out of our lives.  Long hours of work (or worries about a lack of work), busing the kids all over town, trying to keep the house clean, paying the bills – all of this leaves us exhausted and frustrated…anything but in the mood for love.

We misunderstand love as an emotion, but think about it.  Where do those emotions come from?  Actions create those emotions.  That’s why we call it a “romantic gesture”, something has been done that shows us love.  Love is action.

“This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers,” (1 John 3:16).

What we might miss is that if we don’t feel very loving, doing something loving can recreate love in us just as much as it makes someone else feel loved.

If you’ve lost that lovin’ feeling this Valentine’s season, then lay down all the things in your life that have put an end to your love and do something for the one you love.  If you need help, drop the kids off at our Kid’s Night Out, held on Fri., Feb. 12, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m., at Harada Elementary – and give the gift of time to the one you love.

Pastor Tim Eaton is from Edgewater Lutheran Church.  Services are on Sundays at 10am at Harada Elementary,12884 Oakdale Street, Eastvale, CA  92880.  For more information, please visit http://www.EdgewaterEastvale.org.

We Could Learn A Lot From Dogs

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

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

Have you ever noticed how dogs take the time to really enjoy everything they do?  Dogs never seem to be in any sort of a hurry and are content just being with us.  I have also noticed dogs love us unconditionally and their sense of loyalty is miraculous.

I think we could learn a lot from these wonderful beings.  We need to learn to appreciate our time here and to enjoy each and every day.  We need to slow down and take the time to literally smell the roses and all the other wonderful scents our world offers us.  We need to forgive when others disappoint us, and not hold grudges.  We need to be able to give of ourselves to others and trust that they will take care of us.  I think being loyal is such an admirable trait- I wish I’d see it more in this world.

Have you ever watched the endless joy and comfort we give to our dogs when we slow down and just spend time petting them?  We think we are comforting them but in reality we are comforting each other.  In one of my groups, a gentleman told me he pets his dog when he gets angry and that seems to really calm him down and make him feel better.  I personally think it’s their way of trying to take care of us while also getting love for themselves.

I live with an amazing dog named Midnight.  He has taught me about naps, how to enjoy being out in nature, how to be silly, how to love unconditionally, how to love cuddling and how smelling each and every flower is a necessity.  His lessons have been very healing for me but never any more than Midnight himself. He is a constant reminder of how I am supposed to live a wonderful life!

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

Californians Meet Water Goals

Courtesy of CA Water Board

SACRAMENTO– Californians have reduced water use by 25.5 percent since June, and are continuing to meet Governor Brown’s 25 percent mandate, despite a decline in the statewide water-savings rate during the last three months of 2015.

In December, the statewide conservation rate was 18.3 percent, down from 20.4 percent in November, compared to the same months in 2013.  A drop in the water conservation rate was expected during the cooler fall and winter months, when Californians use less water and there is less opportunity to save on outdoor water use compared with the hot summer months.   Statewide water use declined from 76 gallons per person per day in November, to 67 gallons in December, the second lowest per-person rate since water use reporting began in June 2014.

Nonetheless, Californians are urged to keep up their efforts to conserve through the winter months.  This includes complying with urban water supplier directives to switch to once-a-week watering schedules, and not using outdoor irrigation during and within 48 hours following a rain event.

“While the recent rains and growing snowpack are wonderful to behold, we won’t know until spring what effect it will have on the bottom line for California’s unprecedented drought,” said Felicia Marcus, chair of the State Water Resources Control Board.  “Until we can tally that ledger, we have to keep conserving water every way we can.  Every drop saved today is one that we may be very glad we have tomorrow.”

In November 2015, the Governor issued an Executive Order directing the State Water Board to extend and revise the drought emergency water conservation regulations based on conditions through January.

Battle of the Badges Blood Drive

Staff Reports

POMONA– On Sunday, February 21, a Battle of the Badges Blood Drive will take place at the Los Angeles County Fire Department’s East County Training Center, located at 3325 Temple Avenue in Pomona.  The event will take place from 9 a.m.-3 p.m., and it will be held in Classroom One. The annual campaign is in partnership with the American Red Cross, helping to ensure local blood bank reserves are available to meet the needs of trauma victims and hospital patients.  The event is free of charge and the Red Cross will provide a commemorative t-shirt for those who choose to donate blood.

“Here in Southern California, more than 160 local hospitals depend on the Red Cross for blood donations to assist trauma victims and hospital patients,” says Fire Chief Daryl Osby. “Yet less than 3 percent of the population donates blood, leading to continual shortages of all blood types.

Everyone is invited to stop by and help support the American Red Cross.  The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org.

Did You Know?

groundhog-day-usaGroundhog Day

By Carol Heyen

Groundhog Day, which this year was on February 2, is a tradition in the United States and Canada, beloved by those in cold climates looking for the hope of spring.  This year was Punxsutawney Phil’s 130th prognostication, and his handlers said that the furry rodent failed to see his shadow at dawn on Tuesday, which means that he “predicted” an early spring.

“Is this current warm weather more than a trend? Per chance this winter has come to an end? There is no shadow to be cast, an early spring is my forecast!” read Jeff Lundy, vice president of the Inner Circle of The Punxsutawney Groundhog Club.

Legend has it that if the groundhog sees his shadow when he emerges from his den, he will become frightened and return to his burrow, and winter will last another six weeks. If not, spring comes early.

Records going back to 1887 show Phil has now predicted more winter 102 times while forecasting an early spring just 18 times. There are no records for the remaining years.  Since 1988, the groundhog has been “right” 13 times and “wrong” 15 times.

About 10,000 of Phil’s most faithful admirers gathered on Tuesday to wait for the forecast.   Many had been there all night.  The crowd was very happy to hear the prediction of an early spring.  “Bring on Spring!” yelled one.

Punxsutawney Phil is only one of several groundhogs relied on for weather reports.  There is also Staten Island Chuck in New York, General Beauregard Lee in Georgia, Jimmy the Groundhog in Wisconsin, Sir Wally Wally in North Carolina, Woody the Woodchuck in Michigan, and Buckeye Chuck in Ohio.

According to the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club, the average groundhog is 20 inches long and normally weighs from 12 to 15 pounds. Punxsutawney Phil weighs about 20 pounds and is 22 inches long.  A groundhog’s life span is normally 6 to 8 years, but Phil receives a drink of a magical punch every summer during the Annual Groundhog Picnic, which gives him 7 more years of life.

Regulations on Hoverboards

Staff Reports

EASTVALE– The City of Eastvale wants to remind residents about the new laws that went in to effect January 1 that regulate Electrically Motorized Boards, also known as “hoverboards.”

Assembly Bill 604, authored with bipartisan sponsorship, passed in October 2015.  Hoverboards are now defined as “a wheeled device with a floorboard less than 60” x 18” which travels no more than 20 mph on a level surface.”

Several restrictions targeting rider safety were included in the bill.  Riders must be at least 16 years old and must wear a bicycle-type helmet while using the device.  The rider or board must emit a white light to the front, red reflector to the rear, and a white or amber reflector to the sides if operated after dark, which are the same restrictions given to bicycles.

The board cannot be operated on any street with a speed limit of more than 35 mph, and the rider must not be under the influence of alcohol or any drug.

Failure to adhere to the above mentioned laws can and will result in a citation, and/or a fine.

It’s Tax Season

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper 

 

There is bad news and good news about income taxes this year.  The bad news is that it’s tax season again.  The good news is that income taxes are not due until April 18th!

I know there is a lot of tax preparation software available these days.  And there are many tax professionals that can help people with filing their income tax returns.   Since I usually do my own taxes, I spend hours reading the instructions and filling out my tax return.   It used to take weeks to get additional forms.   Now, I can find them online and print my own copies.

All year long, I collect and keep receipts in a large manila envelope.  In January, it takes a lot of time to sort and organize these into different piles.  I have heard that it takes the average tax payer from five to ten hours to prepare their income taxes.   I’m sure it takes me a lot longer!

Eventually, my taxes get done and in the mail before the deadline.  I always say a short prayer when I put my tax return in the mail.  I hope that I got them right!

If I were a politician, I would simplify the whole income tax system.  More people would probably file their own taxes if the process was simplified.  I wonder if the complexity motivates people to not file at all or requires many people to hire tax professionals?

There is a passage in the Bible that says, “Give to everyone what you owe him; if you owe taxes, pay taxes, if you owe revenue, then pay revenue, if you owe respect, give respect and if you owe honor, then give honor” (Romans 13:7)   When Jesus was asked if people should pay taxes He answered, “Whose picture is on the Roman coin?” The answer was Caesar.  Therefore, He said, “give to Caesar what is Caesar’s and give to God what is God’s” (Mark 12:14-17).

I don’t think anyone enjoys paying taxes, but it is part of life.  If we live in this country, we should expect to support this country with our taxes.  We may not always like the way our local, state or national governments spend our money, but we should pay our taxes and then show our approval or disapproval at the ballot box in November.

Don’t forget – good news – the tax deadline this year is April 18th!

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

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 2.06.16

2016-Feb6-Weekly- COVERThe 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:2016-Feb6-Weekly- WEB

Beauty is Truly in the Eye of the Beholder

By Michael Armijo

 

I remember a story I once read: A frog was sitting by a pond one day and a woman walked up and asked: “What’s wrong Mr. Frog, why are you so glum?” The frog went on to explain: “I was once a handsome prince, but an evil witch put a spell on me. Now I’m a frog until a beautiful woman kisses me and breaks the spell.”

The young woman, feeling compelled to help, leaned over and kissed the frog on the head. She waited for a few minutes and then said: “What happened? You’re still a frog.” The frog turned to her and said: “I’m only going to explain this to you one more time….”

The moral of the story is: If you believe you are beautiful, that’s all that counts. You may not have the ability to change frogs into princes, but if you believe you can, that’s all that matters. Although others may not see your beauty, as long as you see it, that is what counts. What matters is that YOU believe in your own beauty.

A physically beautiful woman can sometimes be uglier than any other, and can be morally and ethically ugly inside. But a wholesome woman with great morals and a loving heart will forever change your spirit, because beauty depends on what you’re seeking. And beauty is truly in the eye of the beholder.

 

Diamond Bar City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

DIAMOND BAR– Mayor Lyons began the January 19 Diamond Bar City Council meeting by announcing the winners of the “Through My Lens” Photo Contest of 2015. In the youth division People category, Hamzah Daud won first place, and Clarissa Hui won Honorable Mention. In the Pets category, Huanxi Liu won first place, and Hannah Trinh won Honorable Mention. In the Places category, Nathaniel Liu won first place, and Nicole Trinh won Honorable Mention. In the Nature category, Evelyn Dai won first place, and Ashley Chen won Honorable Mention. In the Digitally Altered category, Rachel Ahn won first place, and Huanxi Liu won Honorable Mention. In the adult division People category, Allan Le won first place, and Rae Lasko won Honorable Mention. In the Places Category, Bruce Davis won first place, and Teresa Wang won Honorable Mention. In the Nature category, Han Mook Kim won first place, and Bruce Davis won Honorable Mention. In the Pets category, Tony J. Wu won first place, and Jeff Braun won Honorable Mention. In the Digitally Altered category, Tony J. Wu won first place, and Tommy Zeller won Honorable Mention. The grand prize was awarded to Tony J. Wu for his piece “Sunset Over Beautiful Diamond Bar,” submitted for the Digitally Altered category, for scoring the highest overall marks.

During the public comments, some residents expressed concern over the housing development that is beginning construction on Larkstone Drive.  A representative from the Diamond Bar Public Library announced upcoming events, including an Adult 101 Etiquette Workshop on January 23 from 2 to 3 p.m.; an acting and improvisation workshop for kids on January 27 from 4 to 5 p.m.; and a workshop to help you get organized that will take place on January 30 from 2 to 3 p.m. A representative from the Diamond Bar Women’s Club announced the club’s third annual Roarin’ Twenties Casino Night Charity Fundraiser on February 6 from 6:30-11:00 p.m. The Diamond Bar Community Foundation also announced a 1K Fun Run/5K Run/Walk on March 20, which will help raise awareness for the Fields for Kids Program and raise funds for a Diamond Bar sports field. The Foundation is looking for both sponsors and participants, and more information can be found at www.thedbcf.org.

The schedule of future events includes: a Los Angeles County Park Needs Assessment Public Meeting on January 21 at 7 p.m. at the Diamond Bar Center on 1600 Grand Ave; a celebration for Alex Morgan on January 24 from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at Pantera Park on 738 Pantera Dr; a Planning Commission meeting on January 26 at 7 p.m. at 21810 Copley Dr; and the next City Council meeting on February 2 at 6:30 p.m. at 21865 Copley Dr.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including City Council minutes from Dec 15; ratification of check register totaling $2,939,893.61; the Treasurer’s Statement for the month of November 2015; an agreement between the City and the Discovery Cube, Orange County for the Eco Challenge Education Program; a professional services agreement with Josue Espino to provide planning consulting services; a General Plan status report for 2015; and an ordinance amending Diamond Bar Municipal Code related to water efficient landscaping.

A first reading was approved for an ordinance amending the City Code relating to penalties and civil remedies for offenses pertaining to animal regulations, and the Council then adopted a resolution adjusting existing animal license fees.

The Council then adjourned until February 2, at 6:30 p.m. at 21865 Copley Dr.

Chino: Planes of Fame Living History Days

Staff Reports

CHINO-The Planes of Fame Air Museum, which is open to the public, will present its monthly Living History Flying Day on February 6, 2016, and will be featuring the Lockheed P-38 Lightning. A speaker panel of distinguished aviation experts, historians and veterans will be featured, followed by a question & answer period and flight demonstration if possible.  At 12:00 noon, the Raffle Flight will occur.

It is the mission of Planes of Fame Air Museum to preserve aviation history, inspire interest in aviation, educate the public, and honor aviation pioneers and veterans. The Museum sponsors regular events in the form of inspirational experiences, educational presentations, flight demonstrations, and air shows in fulfillment of this mission.

The Living History Flying Days are held on the first Saturday of each month, and are great for families to attend. Price is $11 for adults, $4 for children 5-11years, and 4 years and under are free.

A different featured airplane will fly for each event. Upcoming Living History Days will feature the Republic P-47G Thunderbolt on March 5 and the North American B-25 Mitchell on April 2.

The Planes of Fame Air Show will be held April 29-May1 this year, and will commemorate the 75th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor.  There will be over 40 vintage aircraft on display, and many of these, along with newer aircraft, will be performing for your enjoyment.

Stroke Awareness

Staff Reports

According to the CDC, every 40 seconds someone in the United States has a stroke.  In 2008 alone, more than 133,000 Americans died from a stroke, which equates to one person every four minutes-making it the fourth leading cause of death in the United States.  Strokes can affect people of all ages and backgrounds.

Strokes are sometimes called brain attacks.  Strokes happen when a blockage stops the flow of blood to the brain or when a blood vessel in or around the brain bursts. There are two main types of strokes: ischemic and hemorraghic.  Ischemic strokes are caused by blood clots and hemorraghic strokes are caused by bleeds.  The American Heart Association says that ischemic strokes account for 87 percent of all strokes and are usually caused by uncontrolled high blood pressure.

You can lower your risk for stroke, regardless of your background.  Family history, age, sex and ethnicity all play a role in an individual’s stroke risk, but there are still things you can do to help keep yourself healthy.  One of the best preventative measures is to not smoke cigarettes.  Cigarette smoking and exposure to second-hand smoke can thicken the blood and make it more likely to clot, according to the CDC.  Thicker blood flow can lead to increased plaque buildup in your arteries and can damage the blood vessels leading to the brain.
Controlling your blood pressure is also extremely important.  High blood pressure, also called hypertension, increases your risk of stroke and heart attack by weakening and thinning blood vessels, making them more prone to rupture.  More than half of the world’s stroke deaths are caused by elevated blood pressure levels.

Some other proactive measures that you can take to help lower your stroke risk include exercising regularly, eating a healthy diet low in sodium, maintaining a healthy weight and preventing or controlling diabetes.

Stroke.org says there are several treatment options for stroke, depending on the cause of your stroke.  If you are having an ischemic stroke or a stroke that is caused by a blood clot, your doctor may recommend drug treatment that will help dissolve the clot and improve blood flow to your brain.  Another way your doctor may treat your stroke is to use a small mechanical device that removes or breaks-up the clot.  A surgeon will insert the device into the blocked artery using a thin tube. Once inside, the tool traps the clot, and either breaks it up or the surgeon pulls it out of the brain, reopening the blocked blood vessel in the process.

A hemorrhagic stroke (sometimes called a bleed) occurs if an artery in your brain leaks blood or ruptures (breaks open). The first steps in treating a hemorrhagic stroke are to find the cause of bleeding in the brain and then control it. Some of the options for treatments include surgical clips or coils inserted in aneurisms (weaknesses in the blood vessel wall), controlling high blood pressure, and surgery to remove the bleeding vessel and blood that has spilled into the brain.

Medical advances have greatly improved survival rates and recovery from stroke during the last decade. Your chances of survival and recovery outcomes are even better if the stroke is identified and treated immediately.

If you think you are having a stroke, every minute counts. The sooner a patient receives medical treatment, the lower the risk for death or disability. If you or someone you know exhibits the following signs or symptoms, call 9-1-1 immediately:

  • Numbness or weakness of the face, arm, or leg, especially on one side of the body.
  • Confusion, trouble speaking, or difficulty understanding.
  • Trouble seeing in one or both eyes.
  • Trouble walking, dizziness, or loss of balance and coordination.
  • Severe headache with no known cause.
  • Remember, getting immediate medical attention for stroke is crucial to preventing disability and death.

Walnut City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim

WALNUT– Walnut kicked off the new year with a City Council meeting on January 13, which started off with a presentation on Smart Trash Bins. The Smart Trash Bins are larger bins which include informational graphics relating to what materials should or should not be recycled. A previous experiment with the bins showed recycling increased by 19% when used, and plans to implement the bins in schools and other public places was discussed.

Following the public comments, the Council approved all items on the agenda, including minutes from the December 9 City Council meeting; minutes from the January 5-6 City Council Special meetings; a resolution selecting projects for the 42nd Program Year of the Community Development Block Grant Program; an ordinance imposing an express ban on marijuana cultivation, processing, delivery, and dispensaries; a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $2,177,238.04; a resolution allowing the Successor Agency claims and demands in the amount of $125,000; and a contract to MIG Inc. to prepare the General Plan Update and West Valley Blvd Specific Plan.

After councilmember reports and comments, the Council adjourned.  The next meeting will be held January 27 at 7 p.m. in the Council Chambers at 21201 La Puente Rd.

Text To 9-1-1 Service Now Available

Google Images

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Courtesy of San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Dept.

Chino Hills – Hearing- and speech-impaired members of the community or those in a situation where it is too dangerous to dial 9-1-1 now have another option to call for help in an emergency – Text to 9-1-1. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department, the California Highway Patrol (CHP), and State Emergency Communications 9-1-1 officials announced in December that local San Bernardino County law enforcement and fire agencies and Public Safety 9-1-1 Call Centers (dispatch) are now equipped to receive and respond to mobile phone SMS Text to 9-1-1 messages. Officials stress that you should always “Call if you can – text if you can’t” in an emergency situation.

The benefits to consumers are significant, especially in cases when the caller cannot communicate verbally. In situations where a crime is in process, the caller is in hiding, the caller is facing domestic abuse, or the caller is injured and cannot speak – Text to 9-1-1 can save a life. Any phones or devices that include a text or data plan can send a text to 9-1-1. Residents and visitors in Chino Hills and Chino can use the Text to 9-1-1 option. If a person sends a text to 9-1-1 and the service is not available in the area, they will receive a bounce-back message stating “text is not available, please make a voice call to 9-1-1.”

FCC Guidelines for Text to 9-1-1 are as follows: If you are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech disabled, use a TTY or telecommunications relay service if Text to 9-1-1 is unavailable; Be prepared to give your location; Text to 9-1-1 is not available if you are roaming or if the device cannot be located; A text or data plan is required; Do not send photos or videos; Send text messages in plain language, no abbreviations or emojis; Do not send your text to more than one person – send your emergency text to 9-1-1; and Text must be in English only.

The following law enforcement and fire agencies are currently equipped to receive Text to 9-1-1 messages in San Bernardino County: Barstow, Chino, Colton, Cal State University San Bernardino, Fontana, Montclair, Ontario, Redlands, Rialto, San Bernardino and Upland.

“Winter” Conservation… A Year-Round Habit

Opportunities to save water—even in the winter
Courtesy of the Walnut Valley Water District

It is more important than ever to remind everyone that although we are out of the dry season and into our winter months it doesn’t mean the drought is over. When it rains, conserving water may be the last thing on your mind, however, water conservation here in California should be a year-round habit. Statewide mandatory water regulations are still in place.
One of the best ways to conserve water is to turn off your sprinklers before it starts raining, keep them off while it is raining, and then continue to keep them off for at least 48 hours after the rain has stopped. As the weather cools, lawns, and plants don’t need as much water and when it is raining, they don’t need water at all.
Visit our website at http://www.wvwd.com to take a look at the Stage 3 Water Supply Shortage Regulations now in place, and to see more ideas on how to conserve water inside and outside your home. Please continue to use water wisely, and maintain your trees and landscape carefully throughout the winter season and beyond.

Lonzo Ball Named Mc Donald’s All American

Lonzo Ball receives his Mc Donald’s All American Jersey Photo credit: Mc Donald’s All American Game

Lonzo Ball receives his Mc Donald’s All American Jersey
Photo credit: Mc Donald’s All American Game

Staff Reports

Chino Hills– The McDonald’s All American Games unveiled the official rosters for the 39th annual boys game and 15th annual girls game during the McDonald’s All American Games Selection Show on January 17.  The final rosters include the top talent from 14 states.  Chino Hills’ own Lonzo Ball made the cut, and will be representing the West team in the game.

Lonzo, a 6’6” senior from Chino Hills, has already committed to UCLA, as have his two younger brothers, junior LiAngelo and freshman LaMelo.

“I want to thank my family and teammates because through the journey we all travel together,” Ball said during the McDonald’s All American Game Hometown Heroes tour presented by American Family Insurance. “Hopefully it doesn’t stop here.”

Lonzo says that the pressure of being a good example doesn’t affect him too much, as he has been out front his whole life as the eldest of the trio.  “I just go out and lead by example, and hopefully they follow.”

The nation’s premier high school basketball All Star event will take place for the sixth consecutive year March 30 at Chicago’s United Center.  The boys’ game starts at 8 p.m. and will be televised on ESPN.

“The future of basketball will again be on full display in Chicago on March 30,” said Douglas Freeland, director of the McDonald’s All American Games. “The McDonald’s All American Game is the one game all high school age and younger, hoops players aspire to reach.”

Since 1978, more than 1,200 players have competed in the McDonald’s All American Games.

They form an elite group of some of the top names in basketball history, including Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, Candace Parker, Maya Moore and Elena Delle Donne. Alumni include current college standouts Ben Simmons of LSU, Melo Trimble of Maryland, and UConn’s Breanna Stewart.

Net proceeds from the Games benefit Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC). Since its inception, the McDonald’s All American Games have raised more than $11 million for the Charity.