Category Archives: SGV-IE Community News

History 101

Achille Lauro hijacking ends

By History.com achillelauro08ct

The hijacking of the Italian cruise ship Achille Lauro reaches a dramatic climax when U.S. Navy F-14 fighters intercept an Egyptian airliner attempting to fly the Palestinian hijackers to freedom and force the jet to land at a NATO base in Sigonella, Sicily. American and Italian troops surrounded the plane, and the terrorists were taken into Italian custody.

On October 7, four heavily armed Palestinian terrorists hijacked the Achille Lauroin the Mediterranean Sea off the coast of Alexandria, Egypt. Some 320 crewmembers and 80 passengers,were taken hostage. Hundreds of other passengers had disembarked the cruise ship earlier that day to visit Cairo and tour the Egyptian pyramids. Identifying themselves as members of the Palestine Liberation Front–a Palestinian splinter group–the gunmen demanded the release of 50 Palestinian militants imprisoned in Israel. If their demands were not met, they threatened to blow up the ship and kill the 11 Americans on board. The next morning, they also threatened to kill the British passengers.

The Achille Lauro traveled to the Syrian port of Tartus, where the terrorists demanded negotiations on October 8. Syria refused to permit the ship to anchor in its waters, which prompted more threats from the hijackers. That afternoon, they shot and killed Leon Klinghoffer, a 69-year-old Jewish-American who was confined to a wheelchair as the result of a stroke. His body was then pushed overboard in the wheelchair.

Yasir Arafat’s Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) condemned the hijacking, and PLO officials joined with Egyptian authorities in attempting to resolve the crisis. On the recommendation of the negotiators, the cruise ship traveled to Port Said. On October 9, the hijackers surrendered to Egyptian authorities and freed the hostages in exchange for a pledge of safe passage to an undisclosed destination.

The next day–October 10–the four hijackers boarded an EgyptAir Boeing 737 airliner, along with Mohammed Abbas, a member of the Palestine Liberation Front who had participated in the negotiations; a PLO official; and several Egyptians. The 737 took off from Cairo at 4:15 p.m. EST and headed for Tunisia. President Ronald Reagan gave his final order approving the plan to intercept the aircraft, and at 5:30 p.m. EST, F-14 Tomcat fighters located the airliner 80 miles south of Crete. Without announcing themselves, the F-14s trailed the airliner as it sought and was denied permission to land at Tunis. After a request to land at the Athens airport was likewise refused, the F-14s turned on their lights and flew wing-to-wing with the airliner. The aircraft was ordered to land at a NATO air base in Sicily, and the pilot complied, touching down at 6:45 p.m. The hijackers were arrested soon after. Abbas and the other Palestinian were released, prompting criticism from the United States, which wanted to investigate their possible involvement in the hijacking.

On July 10, 1986, an Italian court later convicted three of the terrorists and sentenced them to prison terms ranging from 15 to 30 years. Three others, including Mohammed Abbas, were convicted in absentia for masterminding the hijacking and sentenced to life in prison. They received harsher penalties because, unlike the hijackers, who the court found were acting for “patriotic motives,” Abbas and the others conceived the hijacking as a “selfish political act” designed “to weaken the leadership of Yasir Arafat.” The fourth hijacker was a minor who was tried and convicted separately.

 

Riverside Medical Clinic Receives Award

Staff Reports

Riverside – The Riverside Medical Clinic received the 2016 Excellence in Healthcare Award on September 23 from the Integrated Healthcare Association (IHA) at their Annual Stakeholder Meeting. The award was given to Riverside Medical Clinic out of 34 other physician organizations statewide for top performance on clinical quality, patient experience and cost measures.

“Through our internal patient care initiative that we call “RMC Signature”, we work hard to provide quality care. So we are proud to be recognized for indeed improving health care quality, making sure patients have a good care experience and working to keep care affordable,” said President Judy Carpenter.

The Excellence in Healthcare Award is a part of IHA’s program, Value Based Pay for Performance (VBP4P), and recognizes physician organizations that perform in the top 50 percent in the following areas: clinical quality, patient experience and total cost of care.

“Through the Excellence in Healthcare Award, we recognize physician organizations that are making a real difference in their communities and in their patients’ lives every day through their commitment to high-quality, affordable, patient-centered care,” said IHA President and CEO Jeffrey Rideout, M.D.

Out of over 200 physician organizations participating statewide, less than 1 in 5 reached the awards standards.

In order for any of the other organizations to win an award just as Riverside, they would have to have done the following:

  • More than 41,000 California patients with diabetes would have their blood sugar controlled, helping to lower their risk of adverse health outcomes.
  • More than 290,000 California patients would rate their overall care quality a nine or a 10 with 10 being the highest score.
  • Health care savings would be about $3.9 billion a year.

Artist Corner

Andrea Cruz

By Racine Guajardo andrea-cruz-1-web

Andrea Cruz was born in Lake Tahoe, California but later moved to Southern California at an early age.  A sketchbook and pencil played a huge role in her upbringing. Her first influence was her Grandfather, saying, “He was the one that opened my eyes to the arts.” He was the one to put her first pencil in her hand and helped guide her through her passion as he was a self-taught colorblind artist.

At the age of 10, Cruz learned the meaning of life and death as her mother had lost her battle with cancer. The more she tried to comprehend what happened, the more she dove into her sketch book. After high school she moved to Hollywood, but due to unforeseen circumstances, she became homeless and lived her life on the streets of Los Angeles for the next 4 years.

No matter what extremes Cruz was faced with on a daily basis, one thing that she could count on was her sketch book and pencil that she carried around with her everywhere she went. It became her release and comforted her with the overwhelming amount of emotions she was experiencing. Through all her life experiences, she became more in tune with herself and the world around her. In 2004, she started experimenting with paint. The longer she worked with art, the more she realized how much it has helped throughout her life.

Cruz realized that creativity helps build self-esteem with young kids and adults across the board. She wanted to create a platform for people to express their creative side.

“I have been able to be part of some wonderful organizations with my art like donating my creative expertise, for example, building a dollhouse that won third place in a contest for Habitat for Humanity, to help them to raise money for the organization. Partnership with Orangewood Foundation, helping our foster youth and soon to be aged out fostered teens express their creative sides by introducing them to painting on canvas,” Cruz said.

When Cruz was asked what she would like people to know about her she said, “I am passionate about my art and it is important to live my life through my passion. I believe that we are all born with talents, it is up to us to recognize them, find ways to develop them, and as we are inspired, it will inspire others.”

She is a self-taught artist; her own style allows her to be able to break down any paint for anyone to understand.

Today she has found a way to be able to share her talent as an artist by creating a business with her close friend, Oscar Torre. In 2015, they formed a paint and sip company called, The Painter’s Loft.

“From day one, I knew we had something wonderful that we were offering to our customers. Oscar, with his witty sense of humor and zest for life, connects wonderfully with each of our customers. He creates a wonderful synergy while I step by step instruct the painting of the evening,” Cruz said.

Cruz has since been featured in numerous publications including: The Chocolate Voice and Inland Empire Magazine. Her work has been featured in Dallas, Southern, and Central California. She also sells her work to a collector in the Philippines. She currently has art pieces hanging in The Robbins Nest Wine Bar in Orange County. You can also visit The Painter’s Loft several times a week at Mimi’s Café in Corona and Chino Hills, The Robbins Nest in the Artist Village district in Santa Ana, Renata’s Café Italiano in Orange County, and Rodrigo’s Mexican Restaurant in Corona. Throughout the week, Andrea and Oscar instruct private parties in four-counties (Riverside, San Diego, Orange County and Los Angeles County).

Andrea and Oscar can be found on multiple social media sites including, Facebook: The Painters Loft, their website: www.thepainters-loft.com, Instagram: the_painters_loft, and Twitter: @thepaintersloft.

Full Moon

mark-hopper-color-2x2By Pastor Mark Hopper

I love the beautiful summer and fall evenings when the sky is clear and the full moon comes up over horizon.

Recently, the TV weather forecasters were alerting viewers to watch for the harvest moon.  In earlier times, farmers were able to work longer hours to harvest their crops with the aid of a bright, clear full moon illuminating the night sky.

In ancient times, people were apparently fearful of being “moon struck” by the light of a full moon.  In Psalm 121:5-6, the author writes, “The Lord watches over you, he is a shade on your right hand.  The sun will not hurt you by day and the moon will not harm you at night.”

I learned that the expression “Blue Moon” is when there are two full moons in the same month.  Apparently this does not happen very often.

When we hear the expression “once in a Blue Moon” it means that something is unlikely to happen or refers to something that does not happen very often.

I remember when the first men landed on the moon in July. 1969, there was a full moon filling the night sky.  It was amazing to look up at the moon and realize two men from our country were walking on the surface.

The moon influences our planet in a variety of ways.  The moon affects the changes of the ocean tides.

The orbit of the moon around the earth helps keep our planet’s rotation steady and prevents the earth from wobbling and becoming unstable.

In Psalm 19, King David wrote, “The heavens declare the glory of God and the skies proclaim the work of His hands”.  The beauty of the full moon and the vastness of the star filled sky provide evidence of God’s existence.

Let me encourage you to take time to stop and gaze at the next full moon or look up at a clear evening sky filled with stars.  Take a moment to consider the majesty and wonder of the God who created it!

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.

Walnut City Council Discuss General Plan Update

Staff Reports

Walnut – Walnut City Council is working with the Planning Commission to discuss the progress of the General Plan Update. The workshop will be taking place at 6 p.m. in the Council Chambers at Walnut City Hall on Wednesday, October 19.

The City Council and Planning Commission will discuss the subject of Land Use possibilities for other areas of Walnut. The General Plan Update is believed to be the “law” or “backbone” of Walnut’s land use and related policy. It serves as a manual to assist policy actions and expand the vision for the community related to land use, circulation, housing, conservation, open space, safety and noise. Walnut’s current General Plan has aided the community for over 38 years since its adoption in 1978. Although, due to the significant growth in Walnut, council members are forced to discuss their further plans regarding the physical, environmental, economic, social, and demographic characteristics of Walnut.

Residents with inquiries on the project are encouraged to contact Walnut City Hall at 909-595-7543 or visit their office directly at 21201 La Puente Road, Walnut, California, 91789. City Hall is open Mon-Thurs from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m. Residents can also visit the City’s website at www.cityofwalnut.org under the header Popular Links and the Community Resources drop-down menu.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 10.8.16

The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, 2016-oct-08-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-oct-08-weekly-full

The Great Pretender

By Michael Armijo

I remember dressing up like batman, the little Kmart suit with the plastic mask. I remember watching SWAT and grabbing a stick like it was my machine gun. I remember trying to lift the car because I wanted to be Steve Austin, the 6 million dollar man.

You would think it was healthy to give your imagination a chance to flourish, to enhance your creativity. However, without proper guidance, explanation, and influence, you never realize the difference between reality and fantasy. Without that, the lines of reality are blurred, so you embed in your mind that when life seems difficult you can act like a child and become someone you’re not.

I remember being stressed to a point that I felt I could no longer take it. So I went out, drank, and became someone I wasn’t. I pretended to be someone that didn’t exist, someone I never was and never could be. I reverted to my child like instincts and put on that Kmart batman mask, and I picked up that SWAT stick while trying to lift that car. I became the great pretender.

While acting like I was a college scholar, a big shot in my company or a racing car driver, I really felt alive. I felt like a complete human being because my mind was hungry to be complete, like a child wants to become a super hero. My lies were my super power and my reality was my kryptonite.

So as I pretended throughout my life, I liked the escape of not being who I was. Abused and neglected. Deceived and tormented. Tortured and ridiculed. Worse off, verbally accosted and left to play violent and damaging tapes of lies and pain. Pretending was an escape, which helped me not only overcome the pain I had been suffering but allowed me to feel like I was normal for a while. It made me feel as though I was a human being. Something I’ve been looking for so many years.

These incidents happened so quickly and many years have passed. However, today the memories are still haunting.

Today I will embrace my desire, to be something I’m not, to be someone who makes me feel complete. Someone who helped me wear a mask for so many years. Today I am still, deep inside,

The Great Pretender.

Clark’s 101

Magnesium the Magnificent!

By Clark’s Nutrition

Medieval Latin named it “magnesia”, a white lodestone mineral that was highly magnetic and very highly prized by the 15th century alchemists. This group of protoscientists aimed to purify base metals into gold and craft elixirs of mortality, and believed magnesium deposits could be used to craft the mythical “philosopher’s stone”. While unsuccessful in their pursuit, this historically significant movement produced many writings that would eventually be of benefit to geologists, architects, physiologists and biochemists. Today, we know magnesium to be one of the most important, most studied, and most dynamic nutrients in our bodies. As a major mineral, magnesium assists the body in carrying out over 300 enzymatic reactions, stabilizing our cell’s energy currency, and helping our muscles and nerves relax. Individuals with physiological appropriate levels of magnesium tend to suffer less from conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and hypertension. But the benefits do not end there, magnesium may also improve short and long term working memory by improving the density and strength of our nerve network. Luckily, nature has made magnesium ubiquitous and easy to ingest, no matter the eating philosophy, dietary needs, or food selection of even the most finicky eater. Good sources of magnesium are green leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds, dairy, fish, and legumes (magnesium is mostly synonymous with high fiber foods). As easy as finding and ingesting magnesium should be, there are still large swaths of the population that are in deficiency states. Individuals in chronic unmitigated high-stress lifestyles, alcoholics, caffeine abusers, those engaging in long periods of sweating without proper hydration (exercisers), and individuals eating a highly refined “fiber-less” diet are most at risk for a magnesium deficiency.

Inadequate magnesium may also exacerbate the following conditions:

  • Depression- by reducing serotonin levels. Serotonin positively affects almost all of our 40 million brain cells by regulating sleep, mood, sexual desire, appetite, and learning and social behavior.
  • Heart health- low levels of magnesium may lead to heart arrhythmia (irregular heart beat) in combination with calcium.
  • Diabetes- magnesium helps to regulate the effects of blood sugar by improving insulin sensitivity.
  • Osteoporosis- 50-60% of our body’s magnesium (~25 grams total) are found in our bones.

Magnesium recommendations are 310 milligrams for women and 420 milligrams for men. This dose may be increased in times of acute deficiency with one caveat, high doses of magnesium may cause loose and watery stools (which may be the desired effect for those suffering constipation). Upper tolerable levels for daily use are between 800-1200 milligrams for up to three months. Magnesium can interfere with some medications therefore it is imperative that individuals currently taking any medication discuss magnesium dosing with their doctor.

Magnesium is found in powder form, which can easily be mixed into a drink as well as capsules and liquid. Taking 100 milligrams (up to 250 mgs may be well tolerated after a ramp up period) an hour before bed may help to relax muscles and increases the function of GABA receptors (GABA is a calming “inhibitory” neurotransmitter). If the alchemists taught us one thing, it is our interaction with minerals may greatly influence our longevity and health span. As always, have a healthy day.

C Doussett MPH, RDN

HS students hack Computer System

Staff Reports

Chino Hills – Two 16-year-old males from Ruben S. Ayala High School in Chino Hills are being charged for Computer Crimes that occurred on September 5.

Several school administrators had reported that their websites were hacked. The School Resource Officer Thompson conducted the investigation where it was discovered that the two male students from Ruben S. Ayala High School, were involved in the hacking of the school’s computer network. The students modified multiple grades by using stolen login credentials of the faculty and also conducted other data theft.

As soon as the breach was discovered, the school officials worked immediately to safeguard their networks from any future attacks. Once the investigation is completed, the case is to be forwarded to the District Attorney- Juvenile Division for review.

If you have any information regarding this case, please contact Deputy Thompson at the
Chino Hills Police Department at (909) 364-2000.

 

Did You Know?

Can Healthy Habits Contribute to Financial Security?

By StatePoint did-you-know-pic-web

When it comes to feelings about finances, working Americans are practically split down the middle, according to a recent study.

Fifty-five percent of employed Americans feel they are on the right track to achieving financial well-being, while the other 45 percent feel they are not headed in the right direction, according to the 2016 Lincoln Financial Group Measuring Optimism, Outlook and Direction (M.O.O.D.) of America study.

So what are those individuals on the right track doing so well? The study found five key factors — behaviors and influencers — in their lives that correlate to positive feelings about money.

“Right trackers” differ from their counterparts who are not on the right track because:

  • They are more likely to have created formal financial plans — more than 70 percent of them, in fact.
  • They are forward-looking in general, with nearly 100 percent saying they are focused on the future. Also, 90 percent of those in the “right track” camp say they feel in control of their lives.
  • They exercise more. Those with positive feelings about money tend to be active. About 80 percent of this group exercises at least once a week, and typically more often. Compare that with those who are not on the right track — just 60 percent of that segment works out on a consistent basis. Physical health can correlate to financial health.
  • They’re more likely to feel good about themselves. Financial health and emotional health go hand-in-hand, too. Those on the right track are more likely than their counterparts to say they are optimistic because they feel good about themselves and their relationships with family and friends. They’re also positive about their careers and their relationships with coworkers.
  • They take advantage of workplace benefits. Indeed, the more benefits you enroll in through the workplace, the better you will feel financially, suggests the study.

Beyond health insurance and retirement savings, “right-trackers” are enrolling in insurance plans to cover dental and vision care, as well as life insurance and disability insurance (which can help replace a portion of your paycheck while you recover from an injury or illness). They’re also taking advantage of other nonmedical benefits that can help boost financial security, such as accident insurance and critical illness insurance, which can help cover expenses that medical insurance does not, like high deductibles, or day-to-day expenses such as food or mortgage payments.

The future is unknown, but certain insurance coverages offered at work can help safeguard you against a broad scope of unexpected expenses, and can help you feel and be more financially secure. This is something to think about during annual open enrollment for medical insurance and beyond.

For more insights and tips to help you take control of your financial future, follow Lincoln Financial Group on Facebook, Twitter or LinkedIn.

Feeling good about your finances is about the big picture, not just your bank account. From a healthy lifestyle to a positive attitude, taking a cue from those who are on the “right track” may help you get your footing on the path to financial well-being.

Recent Recalls

Staff Reports

  1. McCain Foods USA, Inc. today announced it is voluntarily recalling retail, frozen onion ring products due to the use of incorrect packaging that does not declare milk as one of the ingredients. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to milk run the risk of a serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.
  2. Sager Creek Foods, Inc. of Walnut Creek, CA a subsidiary of Del Monte Foods, Inc., announced a recall of approximately 15,000 shipped cases of FIELD PEAS WITH SNAPS and GREEN BEAN PRODUCTS, primarily non-retail, which may have the potential for trace amounts of shellfish contamination. A customer alerted Sager Creek to the incident.
  3. Infant Carriers Manufactured by Lenny Lamb- The internal stitching on the infant carrier is missing.
  4. Tyson Foods Inc., a Sedalia, Mo. establishment, is recalling approximately 132,520 pounds of fully cooked chicken nugget products that may be contaminated with hard plastic.
  5. Kiwi Care Package Company, a South Tahoe, Calif., establishment, is recalling approximately 90 pounds of canned spaghetti with sausage that was not presented at the U.S. point of entry for inspection and was received from a New Zealand establishment that was not eligible to export product to the U.S.
  6. Evenflo Company, Inc. is recalling certain Evolve 3-in-1 Combination Booster Seats, model number 34411700 manufactured February 26, 2015, to February 9, 2016 and model number 34411741 manufactured May 27, 2015, to February 9, 2016. The affected seats have a button for adjusting the harness tightness. The child in the seat can access this button and loosen the harness without the caregiver’s knowledge.

Man Arrested for Human Trafficking

Staff Reports

San Bernardino – Investigators of the San Bernardino County Human Trafficking Task Force (SBCHTTF) recently closed an investigation regarding the sexual exploitation of a minor by arresting Marquell Deante Stewart, or better known by his street name, “Kell the King.”

Investigators concluded that multiple female victims, who are minors, were forced into work by Stewart. The victims were forced to work in the areas of San Bernardino and Pomona. Stewart is being charged with multiple counts of pimping, pandering, sexual exploitation of a minor and human trafficking.

The SBCHTTFs mission is to expedite those committing crimes in human trafficking and to bring them to justice. They also plan to advance their work in the search and rescue of victims involved in human trafficking. Investigators have recognized that many of the suspects linked to sex trafficking are actually victims forced into the lifestyle. In recent years, law enforcement has provided victims with, along with traditional measures, more information, direction and resources to free themselves from the physical and psychological abuse related to sexual trafficking.

Law enforcement encourages anyone with information on this case or any other to contact Deputy Vanessa Lopez or Investigator Jose Guzman at 909-890-4840. Those wishing to remain anonymous can call the “We Tip Hotline” at 800-782-7463 or go online at http://www.wetip.com

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 10.1.16

The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, 2016-oct-01-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-oct-01-weekly-full

Diamond Bar High Ranked #1 in CA!

BY WVUSD

Diamond Bar — Diamond Bar High School has been ranked the #1 high school in California for college readiness, grad rates, and more.

The educational research group Start Class reviewed data from the some of the best high schools in the country to determine how student performance in the classroom impacts their future college applications.

The most recent data from the National Center for Education Statistics and the Civil Rights Data Collection was used to determine the top public high schools in every state.

The report released on September 21 was based on exam passing rates in math, reading and language arts over the last three years; college preparatory measures including the number of students who pass an AP exam, or take the ACT or SAT; student-teacher ratios; disciplinary actions; and graduation rates.

Diamond Bar High, with an enrollment of nearly 3,000 students, received a 9.64 rating. Learn more about the rankings at:  www.public-schools.startclass.com/stories/19685/top-high-school-every-state.

“This recognition is tremendous and I am so honored to be at Diamond Bar High School serving our students, teachers, and staff,” said Principal Reuben Jones.

Diamond Bar High has also been ranked among the best public high schools in the nation in 2016 reports by Newsweek, U.S. News & World Report, and the Washington Post.

Coffee with a Cop Event

By City of Chino

Chino – The Chino Police Department will be holding their next “Coffee with a Cop” event on Tuesday, October 4, 2016. “Coffee with a Cop” has proven to be a very successful community engagement initiative in the City of Chino. Each event held thus far has consistently opened the lines of communication between residents and the police officers who serve them.

Part of the Chino Police Department’s Strategic Vision is Community Outreach and “Coffee with a Cop” is one way for police officers to build relationships with the community members one cup of coffee at a time. The majority of contact law enforcement has with the public occurs during emergencies or emotional situations. Those situations are not always the most effective time for relationship building and some community members may feel officers are unapproachable on the street. “Coffee with a Cop” provides a unique opportunity for community members to ask questions and learn more about the Chino Police Department through relaxed, one-on-one interactions. There is no agenda, no guest speaker and no power point presentation: just coffee and conversation.

The event will start at 3:30 p.m.  and is expected to end at approximately 5:00 p.m.  It will be held at the Starbucks located at 4013 Grand Avenue #A where coffee will be served.  We look forward to seeing you there!

If you have any questions, please contact Lieutenant Bill Covington at the Chino Police Department 909-334-3092.

 

Straight Talk

My neighbor has two dogs that have attacked my dog twice in the last year when I was walking her- A letter from Tia

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

By Danice Akiyoshi N.D.

Q: My neighbor has two dogs that have attacked my dog twice in the last year when I was walking her.  (She IS spayed)  Sometimes they get out because their gate doesn’t latch properly.  They are very decent people and apologize and offer to pay any vet bills but that doesn’t fix my fear of walking down my own street or the trauma to my dog.  My husband told me to let it go, because everything has turned out ok.  He really likes this family and their dogs because he feeds them when they are out of town.  I told him that if it happens again I will contact the authorities.  My husband feels this will lead to problems in the neighborhood.

Am I over reacting?

A: I don’t think you’re over reacting.  I understand that you are not interested in feeling uncomfortable and afraid when you’re walking your dog.  Legally, dog owners are responsible for the behaviors of their dogs and should be held accountable, especially if there is an injury.  You say these people accept responsibility and that’s something I respect, but what if these dogs get out and decide to attack a neighborhood kid next time?  I think you and your husband need to sit down and really discuss this issue. I also suggest that you sit down with the owners of the attacking dogs and find out what measures they are taking to make sure their dogs don’t get loose again.   This is definitely a big deal.  Please see it through.

Chino Bike Day

By Racine Guajardo

Photo courtesy: Angelica Cuen Ezekiel enjoying the obstacle course at Chino Bike Day.

Photo courtesy: Angelica Cuen
Ezekiel enjoying the obstacle course at Chino Bike Day.

Chino- On Saturday September 24, Chino Bike Day was presented by Healthy Chino, Chino Police Department, and BOBIE’s Cycling Club at Ruben S. Ayala Park.

The participants that attended the event were able to enjoy a multitude of activities including: Community and Family Bike Rides, Helmet Fitting and Giveaway, Bike Repair Station, Bike Obstacle Course, and Kids’ Activities and Crafts.

The event started at 7:30 a.m. with a 15-Mile Community Bike Ride, followed by a Bike Safety Workshop, and ended with a 6-Mile Family Bike Ride. Local resident Angelica Cuen attended the event and said, “I really appreciate how our community leaders put this together to try and unite and get to know the people of the community. My kids had a blast. They loved hanging out and riding the whole 6 miles with the officers.” This Bike Day also became a bonding experience within families. Cuen’s parents also attended and her dad, Hernando Carreno, stated, “I’m thankful for the opportunity to participate in fun and healthy events within my community with my children and grandchildren.” It can also be hard to find safe areas to bike ride, however, Yvonne Carreno says, “I loved the opportunity to bike ride within my community. It was safe and fun. We usually have to go to another community to bike ride but now I feel we were shown a little gem within Chino.”

The City of Chino reminded everyone of the ABC Quick Check: A is for Air, B is for Brakes, and C is for Chain. As well as thanking the community partners; Healthy Chino, Chino Police Department, BOBIE’s Cycling Club, Chino Valley Medical Center, and Kaiser Permanente.

Have Your Party Catered By The Whole Enchilada

Staff Reports 

The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114 S. Diamond Bar Blvd, (at Grand Ave.), in Diamond Bar. You can reach them at (909) 861-5340, and visit their website at www.wholeenchilada.com. See their ad on page 12.

The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114 S. Diamond Bar Blvd, (at Grand Ave.), in Diamond Bar. You can reach them at (909) 861-5340, and visit their website at http://www.wholeenchilada.com. See their ad on page 12.

Diamond Bar – If you’re planning a celebration, parties can be planned easily at a home or business with The Whole Enchilada’s catering service. Book now and you can reserve a portion of the restaurant to celebrate with good food, family, and friends.

Gift shopping can also be made easy now that The Whole Enchilada has gift cards available for purchase in person or online at http://www.wholeenchilada.com.

You can also take a break from the kitchen and visit The Whole Enchilada Restaurant for great food and customer service. With its promise of authenticity, The Whole Enchilada guarantees that its customers will enjoy the taste of their savory entrees.

The Whole Enchilada can help you make at-home dinners easy by offering tamales all year round. This traditional holiday dish is sold by the dozen and is available in pork, beef, chicken, green chili and cheese. From platters and entrée meals to taco bars, they also provide other options to serve fresh, authentic Mexican recipes their resident chef brought from their homeland.

“All our food is made fresh daily,” says Lil Palmer of The Whole Enchilada. The restaurant has been in business for over 30 years, offering a variety of Mexican dishes ranging from tacos and burritos to carne asada and fajitas.

The Whole Enchilada’s food is only one reason to celebrate at their restaurant. They also pride themselves on excellent customer service due to their family friendly servers being attentive, courteous, and knowledgeable.

The staff will be there to help you celebrate special moments, raise money for your team or organization, and provide a wonderful experience for your children.  They love working with the community to help with fundraisers, and special events for churches, sports, schools, clubs, and more.

Birthday parties are always fun at The Whole Enchilada, as well. No matter how old you are, the staff will provide you with a total birthday experience including singing, a special picture to take home, free birthday hat and dessert, and best of all, five “Enchilada Bucks” to use the next time you visit.

Better yet, The Whole Enchilada’s “Kids Club” includes four mailings per year entitling your children to a free meal when accompanied by an adult, as well as a birthday invitation for a free meal and dessert.

And remember to ask your server for a Combo Punch Card on your next visit, which provides a free combo dinner when you purchase any nine of their combination dinners.

The Whole Enchilada is located at 1114 S. Diamond Bar Blvd, (at Grand Ave.), in Diamond Bar. You can reach them at (909) 861-5340, and visit their website at http://www.wholeenchilada.com. See their ad on page 12.

DeAnda Honored At County Teacher Of The Year Luncheon

By WVUSD

Ron Hockwalt Academies teacher Frank DeAnda was among 73 Los Angeles County Teachers of the Year honored on September 16. Shown with Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor, Principal Dr. Donna Hunter, and Board Member Cindy Ruiz. Photo courtesy: WVUSD

Ron Hockwalt Academies teacher Frank DeAnda was among 73 Los Angeles County Teachers of the Year honored on September 16. Shown with Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor, Principal Dr. Donna Hunter, and Board Member Cindy Ruiz.
Photo courtesy: WVUSD

The Walnut Valley Unified School District (WVUSD) 2016 District Teacher of the Year, Frank DeAnda from the Ron Hockwalt Academies, was among 73 top teachers from around the county celebrated during an awards luncheon on September 16. Educators took the stage at the Universal City Hilton ballroom to receive tributes, awards, and congratulations from Los Angeles County Schools Superintendent Dr. Debra Duardo. WVUSD will pay tribute to the 2015-2016 Teachers of the Year during the 19th annual Salute to Teachers slated for October 19.

 Diamond Bar, Walnut High make Newsweek’s 2016 list

Walnut Valley’s high performing schools have once again gained national recognition. Diamond Bar and Walnut High Schools are featured in Newsweek’s 2016 report of the 500 best high schools in America. The news magazine’s annual list highlights public high schools that do the best job of preparing students for college. A total of 51 California schools were recognized. Newsweek rated 15,819 high schools in the country based on factors including student scores on state tests, SAT and ACT exams and Advanced Placement tests. The rankings also consider graduation rate, the ratio of counselors to students, student participation in AP courses and the percentage of college-bound students.

 STEM Tech Trek winners

Congratulations to four WVUSD middle school students who received scholarships to attend the week-long Tech Trek camp held at UC Irvine last summer. Madeline Wang from South Pointe, and Prabhleen Kaur, Lily Rzonca, and Annie Guo from Suzanne were nominated by their 7th grade science teachers and selected by the Walnut/Diamond Bar AAUW Chapter committee. The annual STEM camp is designed to encourage young women to continue studying science and math in middle school and beyond. On September 15, the campers, who are now 8th graders, reported on their experiences at the Diamond Bar Library. “I was so happy Madeleine was selected to attend this worthwhile event since she was always inquisitive, interested, and a motivated leader in my 7th grade science class,” said South Pointe teacher Shelly Yamashiro.  “The camp provided a chance for the girls to experience all aspects of science & technology, such as developing apps, working with liquid nitrogen and dry ice and interviewing notable NASA scientists, just to name a few.  I know Madeleine (and the other girls that participated) are now seriously thinking about their amazing futures in science!”

Suzanne math teacher receives award

Suzanne Middle School math teacher Amy Erickson is among 34 teachers from around the country selected as winners of the 2016 Edyth May Sliffe Award for Distinguished Mathematics Teaching in Middle and High School. The award gives recognition of high school and middle school mathematics teachers whose teams participate in Mathematical Association of America AMC Competitions. Awardees are acknowledged for their encouragement and commitment that is making a noticeable difference in students’ problem-solving abilities and love of mathematics. In addition, winners are awarded a $500 stipend.

 Two Sisters host workshop at Quail Summit

Renowned educators/authors/professional development presenters Gail Boushey and Joan Moser, known as “The 2 Sisters”, visited Quail Summit Elementary on September 15 to provide demonstration lessons for primary level teachers. The 2 Sisters travel all over the world providing engaging, on-point workshops on literacy and math structure, targeted instruction and developing life-long learners. The pro bono workshop at Quail Summit was considered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. “It was an extraordinary gift to have them at our school,” said Principal Jeanette Koh.

 Collegewood ‘Grades of Green’ sparks change

Pitzil Milagro, a 4th grade student leader at Collegewood Elementary recently spoke before the Los Angeles County Public Works Board of Directors to explain the school’s Grades of Green Team accomplishments. Collegewood won 1st place in the Trash Free Lunch Challenge last year.  The school-wide efforts made a significant decrease in lunchtime trash – from a whopping 20 bags – down to just 3 bags of waste each day. Students also wrote to Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor about banning polystyrene trays at lunch which led to a districtwide ban on the trays. The Board agreed that Collegewood’s environmental efforts should be inspirational to schools everywhere!

A World Full Of Anxiety

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

I have always been told that worrying is an insult to God.  I always had interpreted this as that we are in good hands and need to trust the plan for our life.  I believe being the best version of myself daily is really all I can do.  I have come to realize that all I really have control over is myself and how I react to my life.  I have no control over others or over their behavior.  I can be helpful as a therapist and plant seeds for change in people.  It’s not up to me whether those seeds get nurtured and grow into the very thing that provide tools for change.

The definition of anxiety is that our demands outweigh our means.  For example feeling as if there isn’t enough time to get everything done.  I think we can always work on improving our time management skills and sometimes we need to set more realistic expectations for ourselves and others.  We need to learn that Rome really wasn’t built in a day and we need to learn patience.  We need to pay attention to our bodies when we aren’t handling our anxiety very well.  We need to practice our deep breathing and our meditation.  We need to take time to pet and cuddle with our animals.  We need to work on staying in the moment and not thinking so ahead of ourselves. We need to just relax and have faith in ourselves, in others and in our life plan.

More than fifty percent of all illnesses are stress related.  If we can learn to relax and manage our stress than we won’t make ourselves sick.  Slow down, breath and have faith in yourself, in others and your life plan.  Learn to manage your life and your stress so that it won’t control you and your 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.