Category Archives: The Weekly News

Diamond Bar: Over 150 Tons of Carbon Emissions Eliminated

Photos courtesy of Diamond Bar City Hundreds of Diamond Bar resident did their part in going “green” by participating in the first America Recycles Day Nov. 14.

Photos courtesy of Diamond Bar City
Hundreds of Diamond Bar resident did their part in going “green” by participating in the first America Recycles Day Nov. 14.

By Carol Heyen

Diamond Bar – The City of Diamond Bar’s Eco Expo set a new record for the largest e-waste collection, with over 5 tons collected at America Recycles Day, Nov.14. At the event that took place at the Air Quality Management District, the community was able to drop off unwanted electronic devices, clothing, and more.

After researching various E-Waste companies, the city decided to partner with All Green Electronics Recycling.

“We chose to partner with All Green because they made us feel that our event was in good hands during all communication and they have all of the required certifications within the E-Waste recycling industry,” said the City’s Management Analyst Alfa Lopez. “They help us provide a free, responsible and safe option for recycling E-Waste.”

Because All Green is an e-Stewards and R2 certified E-Waste recycler, no material collected will be sent overseas to developing nations or dumped into landfills.

“There were multiple educational booths, fun activities and outlets to responsibly recycle,” said Chelsea Wilder from All Green.

Out of all the services provided such as clothing and textile recycling, garden mulch giveaway, and green information booths at the Eco Expo, electronic waste recycling was “the busiest service of that day,” Lopez added.

Due to the Eco Expo’s massive success, another has been scheduled for Earth Day, Saturday, April 23, 2016.  It will also be held at the AQMD.  While electronic devices such as computers, laptops and cell phones are always accepted, it is important to check if your device qualifies for free recycling before heading to the next event.

For more information about Earth Day E-Waste Collection Drive and a list of acceptable items, please visit: http://www.allgreenrecycling.com/events-city-of-diamond-bar/.

 

Social Media Leads to Arrest of Chino Burglar

Staff Reports

CHINO– Social media helped Chino Police catch an accused burglar on Tuesday, Dec. 15.
Yvess Emmanuel Ibarra-Vega, 20, of Pomona, was arrested and charged in a series of robberies – including two that occurred at Doublz restaurant in Chino.
On Nov. 11 and Dec. 3, Doublz restaurant, located at 4750 Riverside Drive, was robbed by an unknown male armed with a handgun.
On Dec. 14, Chino Police posted surveillance footage of the suspect on Facebook in hopes of getting the word out about a robbery that occurred at Doublz.

Pomona police officers contacted Ibarra-Vega on Dec. 15 based on several leads related to a string of seven armed robberies in Pomona. According to detectives, information was received that the suspect was possibly linked to the Chino robberies. The information provided to Pomona police officers was the Chino police department’s Facebook post requesting assistance in identifying the suspect.

While in custody, Ibarra-Vega confessed to the Doublz robberies in Chino. Ibarra-Vega is in custody at a Los Angeles County jail facility on multiple robbery charges.

Did You Know? Charity Checklist

Courtesy of the Federal Trade Commission

With so many charities looking for donations this time of year, make sure you take the following precautions to make sure your donation benefits the people and organizations you want to help.

  • Ask for detailed information about the charity, including name, address, and telephone number.
  • Get the exact name of the organization and do some research. Searching the name of the organization online — especially with the word “complaint(s)” or “scam”— is one way to learn about its reputation.
  • Call the charity. Find out if the organization is aware of the solicitation and has authorized the use of its name. The organization’s development staff should be able to help you.
  • Find out if the charity or fundraiser must be registered in your state by contacting the National Association of State Charity Officials.
  • Check if the charity is trustworthy by contacting the Better Business Bureau’s (BBB) Wise Giving Alliance, Charity Navigator, Charity Watch, or GuideStar.
  • Keep a record of your donations.
  • Make an annual donation plan. That way, you can decide which causes to support and which reputable charities should receive your donations.
  • Visit this Internal Revenue Service (IRS) webpage to find out which organizations are eligible to receive tax deductible contributions.
  • Know the difference between “tax exempt” and “tax deductible.” Tax exempt means the organization doesn’t have to pay taxes. Tax deductible means you can deduct your contribution on your federal income tax return.
  • Never send cash donations. For security and tax purposes, it’s best to pay by check — made payable to the charity — or by credit card.
  • Never wire money to someone claiming to be a charity. Scammers often request donations to be wired because wiring money is like sending cash: once you send it, you can’t get it back.
  • Do not provide your credit or check card number, bank account number or any personal information until you’ve thoroughly researched the charity.
  • Be wary of charities that spring up too suddenly in response to current events and natural disasters. Even if they are legitimate, they probably don’t have the infrastructure to get the donations to the affected area or people.
  • If a donation request comes from a group claiming to help your local community (for example, local police or firefighters), ask the local agency if they have heard of the group and are getting financial support.
  • What about texting? If you text to donate, the charge will show up on your mobile phone bill. If you’ve asked your mobile phone provider to block premium text messages — texts that cost extra — then you won’t be able to donate this way.

Epoh Sushi is Fresh and Affordable

Epoh Sushi is located at 5536 Philadelphia St., Suite D, Chino 91710, and can be reached at (909) 627-8862 or www.epohsushi.com.

Epoh Sushi is located at 5536 Philadelphia St., Suite D, Chino 91710, and can be reached at (909) 627-8862 or http://www.epohsushi.com.

By Michael Armijo

Chino – As a sushi connoisseur, I am very particular when it comes to sushi. I’ve had some bad experiences, so I was pleasantly surprised when a group of us went into Epoh Sushi in the Chino Town Center on Philadelphia near Central Ave.

“I recommended this place because of the freshness and the quality of the fish” said fellow connoisseur, Ben Cortes. “And the specials are great, especially the lunch specials.”

Since there was a group of us, we all ordered a dish and shared, so I was able to sample several items.

The albacore sushi was tender and fresh. It had a delicate flavor that you could savor. The soup, called Sukiyaki, was a smorgasbord of several kinds of fish that created a delicious blend of flavor that lit up your taste buds. The “half and half” chicken and beef bowl, which featured chunks of beef instead of the traditional shredded beef, boasted with tender and seasoned cuts that melted in your mouth. And the surprising part was the rice. I am not a “rice guy,” but it was flavorful and soft, but not mushy. I even took the leftover rice home, something I’ve never done with rice before.

One of my new, all time favorites has to be the Yellowtail Collar. It was baked, crispy on the bottom, and meaty. The Collar was just delicious.

They have daily lunch specials, and their dinner prices are reasonable as well. The lunch specials range from $7.95 to $9.95. From the sushi bar, specials run from $10.95 to $12. And the Rice Bowls run from $6.95 to $11. For dinner, the entrees and the specials start out at $16. For a complete menu with prices you can sign onto http://www.epohsushi.com.

They also have a unique program called a “”membership.” It costs nothing, all you do is fill out a card and supply your email. The membership includes a 10% off each visit discount and you get a free meal on your birthday! I signed up as my birthday is in January, so I’ll be celebrating it there!

I could go on and rave about the food but we all know price is always a factor. I used to believe “you get what you pay for” but Epoh Sushi gave me more for my dollar, and for my taste buds.

Epoh Sushi, 5536 Philadelphia St, Suite D, Chino, CA 91710, (909) 627-8862. www.epohsushi.com.  Open Monday-Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m., Friday 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., and 5 p.m. to 10 p.m., Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Sunday 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

 

Straight Talk With Danice

Danice Akiyoshi

Danice Akiyoshi

Dealing with a breakup
By Danice Akiyoshi, N.D

 

Dear Dr. Akiyoshi,

I recently suffered a terrible break up.  I didn’t want my family to see me crying all the time so I started taking long walks.  My walks soon turned into running and I have now lost 23 pounds.  Now everyone is asking me if I’m suffering from an eating disorder and wondering if I’m depressed.  I do look a little under weight, but this is what I need to do right now.  I don’t want to talk about the details of my break up because it is too painful for me.  I just want to run.  I want to avoid socializing right now.  How can I briefly explain myself so people will leave me alone?

-Y. P.

 

 

Dear Y. P.

It seems to me that you have found a healthy way to work through your pain and suffering.  In my opinion you are on the right track and you do not owe anyone an explanation about how you are managing your emotions.   As for your well meaning and sincere loved ones, tell them exactly what you told me.  When you feel up to talking, tell them that you are processing your suffering with exercise and that you are not willing to have long conversations about your breakup.  Well meaning people will respect your request.  However, if you find yourself unable to truly digest your difficult experience in a reasonable amount of time, please seek the guidance of a skilled coach or therapist for a bit of additional assistance. Good Luck, and keep safe.

-Danice Akiyoshi ND

Danice Akiyoshi is a Naturopathic Doctor and the head of Candid Coaching Service. She offers personal coaching services relating to all types of issues and concerns. This is a letter she received from an anonymous reader. To send a question to Danice, email her atstraighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

El Niño Preparedness

Photo courtesy: Breitbart

Photo courtesy: Breitbart

By Raymond Mendoza

Diamond Bar – It sounds ironic to talk about the dangers of El Niño causing massive flood damage as California is currently in the midst of a terrible drought; however Los Angeles County officials were adamant that residents should be prepared for an emergency as the weather gets colder and rainfall becomes more frequent.
Pamela J. Manning, from the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, and Jeanne O’Donnell, senior emergency program manager for the County of Los Angeles, gave a short presentation at the Dec. 14 Diamond Bar city council meeting to dispel rumors associated with El Niño and to offer tips to Diamond Bar residents during the winter season.
For example, Manning stated that most citizens believe that El Niño is a yearly, singular storm that brings in heavy rains and flooding- when in fact El Niño is a climate cycle that causes multiple storms over the course of several months. In Southern California, El Niño is expected to cause increased rainfall from February through May, giving residents ample time to prepare for the worst.
“I can’t tell you the amount of times I’ve heard people say ‘when is THE El Niño going to hit?’, as though it were one big bucket rainstorm,” Manning said. “That’s not at all what it is. Believe it or not, it’s actually a condition that has been happening since March, which a lot of people don’t realize.”
Manning stated that the county’s flood control systems are checked and that when flooding occurs, rainfall causes mudslides or if there are any other hazardous problems, public works will work to mitigate accidents from occurring.
Residents were also asked to prepare sandbags and to report any dangers caused by storm activity, which could help avoid accidents or injuries.
Manning said that the county looks at “Possible Vulnerable Locations” (PVLs) in every city which can be affected by inclement weather. These areas are noted in order to ensure that when El Niño does arrive, proper precautions are made to ensure that residents are not affected by problems caused around PVLs.
Manning said that only one PVL exists in Diamond Bar, an access road to the Indian Creek sewer maintenance pump.
While Manning covered the county’s ongoing actions, O’Donnell spoke about how residents can be proactive, and that the Internet has been and will continue to be an invaluable tool to warn residents of any storm related dangers.
O’Donnell said the county has been preparing for El Niño for months and that public outreach is important. She mentioned that #LARAIN on Twitter and other social media is a fast and clever way to let the masses know that El Niño can be dangerous, which areas to avoid, and when and where residents can go to receive help during a storm.
O’Donnell mentioned that during El Niño, the county will be working with various cities, emergency responders and even the Red Cross in the event that problems and injuries do occur.
“We’re really working hard to reach out and bring those agencies in and have conversations so that when El Niño does start, it’s not a ‘he said that, she said this’ situation and instead people understand the threats and the risks.”
Both O’Donnell and Manning agreed that having an emergency kit with food, water, clothing, a first aid kit, and various other survival items is important during an emergency and that keeping connected and informed is what can save lives and circumvent problems during El Niño.

Helpful tips from Los Angeles County:

  • Monitor TVs and the radio for news
  • Be prepared to leave immediately if an evacuation has been ordered
  • Stay away from flooded channels and rivers
  • Do not try to cross flooded areas
  • Flood water picks up sewage and chemicals- throw away any food or medication that comes in contact with flood waters
  • Stay away from steep slopes- they become unstable during heavy rainfall
  • Never touch a downed power line
  • Look for tilted trees, telephone poles, fences, and walls on hillsides
  • If trapped in your vehicle- stay inside. If the water level rises, get on top of your car
  • Be alert when driving
  • Report small problems before they become big problems

 

As Manning and O’Donnell concluded their presentation, they said that additional information can be obtained at www.lacounty.gov/elnino and www.dpwcare.org.

Holiday Getaway At Comfort Suites

Photo Courtesy: Comfort Suites Comfort Suites in La Puente.

Photo Courtesy: Comfort Suites
Comfort Suites in La Puente.

Staff Reports

 

La Puente – This holiday season, head over to Comfort Suites for an affordable, comfortable good night’s sleep while you dream of sugar-plum fairies and other magical things.

And if you are planning to have family and friends join you from out of town for the holidays, why not have them stay at the nearby Comfort Suites?  Comfort Suites is always dedicated to making your visit enjoyable, and they will make sure you and your guests are happy with their stay.

With a welcoming atmosphere and friendly service, Comfort Suites can make you feel as comfortable as if you were at home. With a three-diamond rating from AAA, the Comfort Suites’ staff ensures that guests are always satisfied with their stay (AAA is one of the most widely respected information sources for travelers throughout the United States and recommends hotels on a 1 to 4 scale).

Comfort Suites offers a wide variety of amenities including free Wi-Fi, cable/satellite on a flat screen plasma TV, a fitness center, 100 percent smoke-free hotel, and every guest can enjoy a complimentary hot breakfast each morning.  And don’t forget, every room is a beautiful suite.

Maria Mendoza, General Manager of Comfort Suites, personally invites you to come enjoy your stay at their hotel and take advantage of the unique opportunity to experience the area’s rich history, culture and urban energy. Visitors of every age and interest can enjoy a wide range of activities. La Puente Comfort Suites is located near the Irwindale Speedway, Industry Hills Expo Center, Raging Waters, the beautiful Huntington Library, and much more.

Located at 753 Glendora Avenue in La Puente, Comfort Suites can be reached at 626-330-0030, or visit their website at www.industryhillshotel for more information and photos of their site.  Be sure to check out their ad on page 8 of this publication.

 

Walnut High Named Grammy Signature School Semifinalist

Courtesy of WVUSD Walnut High School has been named a 2016 Grammy Signature School Semifinalist. The Home for the Holidays band and orchestra concert, under the direction of Corey Wicks and Dr. Buddy Clements/WVUSD

Courtesy of WVUSD
Walnut High School has been named a 2016 Grammy Signature School Semifinalist. The Home for the Holidays band and orchestra concert, under the direction of Corey Wicks and Dr. Buddy Clements/WVUSD

 By Kelli Gile

 

WALNUT -Walnut High School has garnered national recognition as a 2016 Grammy Signature School Semifinalist by the Grammy Foundation.

The Grammy Signature Schools program recognizes top U.S. public high schools that are making an outstanding commitment to music education during an academic school year.

A total of 119 schools around the country received the distinction.
“We are very proud of the work that Instrumental Music Directors Dr. Buddy Clements, Corey Wicks, and Choir Director Lisa Lopez do to support the arts at Walnut High,” said Principal Brandon Dade. “These outstanding music educators have gone above and beyond to develop a top-rate program!”

The Grammy Signature School program, created in 1998, recognizes top public high schools that are making an outstanding commitment to music education.

Finalists will be announced in mid-March. These schools will receive a custom award and $1,000-$6,000 grant benefit their music program.

The top programs are designated as Gold recipients, and the best of the Gold recipients is designated as the National Grammy Signature School.

The selection process for Grammy Signature Schools begins each year in August when the Grammy Foundation mails notification to more than 20,000 public high schools from districts large and small, urban, suburban and rural, requesting information about each school’s music program.

Applications are completed and submitted online in October. After the applications are scored, finalists are identified and asked to submit additional documentation, such as recordings of school concerts, sample concert programs and repertoire, which is then reviewed by an independent blue-ribbon committee of top music educators and professionals to determine the schools that merit Grammy Signature School status.

The Simplicity of Life

By Michael Armijo

I was at home one day recovering from a recent illness and I had not gotten cable yet so I was forced to watch antenna TV.  What was on was “Gilligan’s Island”, “Father Knows Best”, and “I Dream of Jeannie”. Watching these shows brought me back to when I was a kid and a teenager in the 70s and 80s. What also brought me back was remembering how simple life was back then.

You see, back then there weren’t many complications; there was just Gilligan getting hit by coconuts, the father from “Father Knows Best” staying with his family and spending time solving family problems, and “I Dream of Jeannie” misinterpreting what her Master said. I started to think about what happened to those days, and why was my life so complicated now? Why couldn’t I commit to a relationship or stay focused on the quest of being more successful? Why was I so distracted? Why did I want to run when tragedy struck my life?

I realized that I am to blame for not enjoying all the fruits of my hard work, and all of the benefits of what I’ve truly earned. Of the love I’ve earned and the security I deserved. It was my fault and no one else’s. I’ve learned that I kept distracting myself. I kept cluttering my life with everyone else’s life instead of fixing my own.

I have a beautiful family, I have my dream car, I live on the beach for God’s sake. Why am I chasing empty promises, other people’s broken dreams, and lost love?

Two hours in front of a computer, or two hours walking along the beach under the palm trees holding hands with someone who loves me.

So I turned to God and I’ve asked Him to help me find peace. And He did.

Those who know me know I am not, and probably never will be, a “holy roller”. But I’ve learned to pray each day. I’ve learned to be accountable for my actions. I’ve learned not to be so selfish. I’ve learned to be more patient and kind. I’ve learned to attend church regularly. What have I received? Peace.

Social media is a great thing and a nice tool for many. But for me it’s just a distraction from who I truly am. So today I will enjoy the rays of light that come from our joyous sun. I will love, enjoy, and help my family. I will work hard to provide but I won’t overdo it. I’ll continue to smile at strangers. I will continue to give to those who are in need. And I will no longer complicate and distract myself from who I need to be; to be a better man. I will just enjoy the simplicity of life.

There Still is a Lot of Good

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

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

I see the lady in the wheelchair at the post office collecting money for the Salvation Army and I know there is hope for the world.  I look at all of the fundraising going on to help sick and less fortunate children and my heart feels happy.  There are so many organizations helping all the wonderful animals in this world and they all make my spirit light up with joy.  As Midnight and I run through our community, people honk and wave and so many wish us a good day and my entire being feels so grateful for the honor of living and working in a community filled with such wonderful and caring people.

Every time I run one of my support groups I have the rare privilege of hearing people share their stories and as they share, they help others heal in my groups.  I see our community offering support for the people that live here and others offering to lend a hand.  I see breakfasts with Santa and snow being brought in to provide snow days for the children that live here.  I see the magic that lives in this world still.  Oh and the houses all decorated with lights and all the colors of the rainbow make me feel so very alive.

I guess you could say I’m loving this wonderful thing called life.  I guess you could say I love the holidays as well.  I think it’s a great time to see all that is right and good in our lives and our world.  I hope this article will make you stop and reflect on all of the good that is still in our world. Give the gift of helping people see all the good in this gift called life!

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

WVUSD Board Members Take Oaths of Office

Photo courtesy: WVUSD Larry Redinger takes oath of office administered by Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Larry Redinger takes oath of office administered by Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor.

Annual Reorganization of Officers held December 9

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT— Two Walnut Valley Unified School District Board of Trustees took oaths of office during the Dec. 9 Board Meeting.Incumbents Larry Redinger and Dr. Phillip Chen were sworn in to serve their four-year terms.

Superintendent Dr. Robert Taylor administered the oaths, as Redinger begins his seventh term and Chen begins is second term as WVUSD Board Members.

The annual reorganization of officers, held each December, also took place during the meeting.

Board President Redinger turned the gavel over to Helen Hall, who will maintain the position through Dec. 14, 2016.

Other new officers named were Dr Tony Torng – Vice President and Cindy Ruiz – Clerk.

Redinger was presented with an engraved plaque in honor of his year of service as president.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD Board President Larry Redinger turned the gavel over to newly elected Board President Helen Hall after the annual re-organization of officers on December 9. Redinger was recognized for his leadership during his one-year term.

Photo courtesy: WVUSD
Board President Larry Redinger turned the gavel over to newly elected Board President Helen Hall after the annual re-organization of officers on December 9. Redinger was recognized for his leadership during his one-year term.

Lawsuit Over Control of Ontario Airport Settled

Staff Reports

Photo Courtesy of LA/ONT Airport Facebook L.A. City Council approves $250 million settlement agreement for Ontario International Airport Authority to take over ONT.

Photo Courtesy of LA/ONT Airport Facebook
L.A. City Council approves $250 million settlement agreement for Ontario International Airport Authority to take over ONT.

ONTARIO—The Los Angeles City Council approved last Wednesday the landmark settlement agreement that hands over the reins of LA/Ontario International Airport (ONT) to the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA).

In a closed-session meeting, the council unanimously settled the $250 million lawsuit brought by the city of Ontario in June 2013. In 1967, Ontario turned over airport operations to Los Angeles who then sold it in 1985.

“We are now one step closer to finalizing a historic settlement that will improve air travel throughout Southern California and benefit residents and airport employees in both Los Angeles and Ontario,” said L.A. Mayor Eric Garcetti in a statement. Ontario will pay $30 million from its reserves, take over the airport’s $60 million debt and make payments of $50 million over five years and $70 million in the final five years, officials said.

The OIAA must now obtain a certificate to operate the airport from the Federal Aviation Administration, according to the report. The entire process, including FAA approval, is expected to be completed next year.
“We are committed to working closely with FAA officials and Los Angeles World Airports to ensure a smooth transition of airport control in the second half of 2016,” Wapner stated.

“The OIAA will take all steps to ensure that Southern California has the airport capacity needed to meet the long-term demand for air travel while boosting the Inland Empire’s most important economic and jobs engine,” Alan Wapner, Ontario councilman and president of the authority, said in a statement.
Deborah Flint, executive director of Los Angeles World Airports, in unison with the agreement ensures that ONT operations and jobs will not be affected by a lapse in airport operation.
“The agreement ensures uninterrupted operations at ONT by providing the 191 Los Angeles World Airports employees with key employee protections and stability during the transition,” she said in a statement.  “My staff is committed to working closely and cooperatively with the City of Ontario and the OIAA to allow for a smooth transfer.”

Busy Lifestyle? You Need Vitamin C

Courtesy of Clark’s Nutrition

Keys, wallet, phone, mints, lip balm . . . vitamin C? If you live a busy lifestyle and are always on the go (who isn’t these days?), vitamin C should be an everyday essential. We all know that modern-day life can get hectic. Vitamin C is one of the first nutrients to be depleted by stress, yet it’s one of the most critical vitamins for overall wellness.
In order to stay healthy and capable of handling everything that life throws your way, it’s critical to make vitamin C a part of your daily routine. Fortunately, vitamin C may just be the most convenient vitamin ever — since it’s available in a variety of forms, it’s easy to toss some vitamin C in your purse, laptop bag, and desk drawer.
It’s not likely that life will slow down, so here are the top reasons you need vitamin C handy wherever the day takes you.
1. You’re stressed out. Running around and juggling family, work, and life in general can make even the mellowest among us feel stressed sometimes. Stress creates an oxidative environment in the body, which can lead to DNA damage, setting the stage for disease, premature aging, and more.
Antioxidants work to mitigate this damage by stopping the disease-causing chain reaction that the free radicals started. Vitamin C, the ultimate antioxidant, stops the chain reaction before it starts. The body uses vitamin C to neutralize free radicals and restore health and balance.
2. You’re too busy to be sick. Stress has a major impact on the immune system — it not only suppresses immunity but, over time, the immune system doesn’t adapt to stress but continues to wear away. Stress weakens immunity and leaves us vulnerable to disease and infections.
A hectic lifestyle can also leave you feeling exhausted, and we’ve all had times when it’s difficult to turn our brain off at bedtime. Exhaustion and lack of sleep are also linked to depressed immunity, which can lead to colds, the flu, and other ailments.
Vitamin C is crucial for a well-functioning immune system. It is required for the production of white blood cells, T cells, and macrophages that form our defense against viruses and bacteria. When vitamin C levels become depleted, the immune system cannot mount an effective response to defend our health.
3. You need to stay on top of your game. Vitamin C is best known for its role in supporting healthy immunity, but it really supports overall wellness. Feeling your best is important whether you’re always on the go or enjoy a more laid-back lifestyle.
Vitamin C is essential in so many ways: it supports healthy skin, joints, and vision; it’s critical for maintaining heart health; it has potential to protect against cancer and Alzheimer’s disease; and it can even help relieve allergies and asthma.
The body cannot manufacture vitamin C, so it must be obtained from the diet. If you’re on the go, chances are you’re not getting enough of the fruits and vegetables that are rich in vitamin C, like spinach, citrus, peppers, and berries, making a daily supplement essential.
Vitamin C is available as capsules, tablets, chewables, liquids, and powders. All forms are equally effective, which makes supplementing with C extremely convenient. Try a variety of forms, and add vitamin C to your mental list of things you can’t leave home without. If you forget to take a capsule in the morning, be sure to have powdered vitamin C on hand to add to your water bottle during the day. If you keep vitamin C in your laptop or travel bag, you’ll be more likely to see it and then take it.
Having plenty of options available is an easy and convenient way to get your vitamin C — and there’s no excuse not to stay well when life gets hectic.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 12.26.15

2015-Dec26-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:2015-Dec26-Weekly-WEB

Did You Know?

Courtesy of: Google Images

Courtesy of: Google Images

The Origins of Christmas
Courtesy of Allthingschristmas.com

From the Old English “Cristes Mæsse,” meaning “‘mass of Christ,” the story of Christmas begins with the birth of a babe in Bethlehem.
The exact month of Jesus’ birth is unknown. December was likely chosen so the Catholic Church could compete with rival pagan rituals held at that time of year and because of its closeness with the winter solstice in the Northern hemisphere, a traditional time of celebration among many ancient cultures.
Luke, Chapter Two: “For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord. And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.” And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.”
The Origins of Santa Claus
The origin of Santa Claus began in the 4th century with Saint Nicholas, the Bishop of Myra, an area in present day Turkey. By all accounts, St. Nicholas was a generous man, particularly devoted to children. After his death around 340 A.D. he was buried in Myra, but in 1087 Italian sailors purportedly stole his remains and removed them to Bari, Italy which greatly increased St. Nicholas’ popularity throughout Europe.
His kindness and reputation for generosity gave rise to claims he that he could perform miracles and devotion to him increased. St. Nicholas became the patron saint of Russia, where he was known by his red cape, flowing white beard, and bishop’s mitre.
After the Reformation, European followers of St. Nicholas dwindled, but the legend was kept alive in Holland where the Dutch spelling of his name Sint Nikolaas was eventually transformed to Sinterklaas. Dutch children would leave their wooden shoes by the fireplace, and Sinterklaas would reward good children by placing treats in their shoes. Dutch colonists brought this tradition with them to America in the 17th century and here the Anglican name of Santa Claus emerged.

A Man Named Mark

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

By Pastor Mark Hopper

The worst home improvement project is plumbing.  When you start a plumbing project in most homes, you can expect to go back to the store at least three times and often more.

Recently, my wife and I were in Arizona visiting her mother and working on some home improvement projects. One of the major projects I undertook was to change the valves on the water connections for the washing machine.  A main reason that plumbing projects are so frustrating is that you have to turn off the main water supply into the house before you can change out valves and other water supply outlets.  Once the water is off and old valves are removed, there is no turning back.  You are committed to finishing the job completely before you can turn the water back on.  There is no room for error or only doing the job halfway.  Once you start, you have to finish.   Inevitably, you run into a problem that you did not expect.  In my case, I was trying to replace the two valves that supply the hot and cold water to the washing machine.

On my first trip to the store, I bought two identical valves and they looked the same.  When I brought them home and tried to install them, one fit but the other one did not.  How could that be?  I went back to the home improvement store looking for help.  Although there were several people willing to help me, they all said I needed to talk to Mark.  He was an experienced plumber with a good name.  He was the one I should talk to.  It turned out that the man named Mark was rather shy and soft spoken, but I quickly discovered that he was both knowledgeable and helpful.  He agreed that my two valves were not the same.  One valve had “compression threads” and the other valve had standard “pipe threads”.  I knew pipes had threads, but I did not realize that there are different kinds of threads!

He said that I needed a transition connection that would enable both of the valves to fit the compression threads coming out of the wall.  No one else in the plumbing department could diagnose my problem, but Mark did.  With his help, some Teflon tape and a lot of pipe dope, I soon had the problem solved and the valves reassembled.  I could turn the water back on and life could return to normal.

I’m thankful that there are “Marks” in the world who can solve problems for us.  It’s great to have someone who is knowledgeable in their field to ask for help and advice.  I’m sure there is someone in your life who knows a lot about computers, car repair or baking cookies. You may have a skill or expertise that enables you to help others, too.  I hope that you will watch for an opportunity to help others like Mark helped me.  And, I hope you will say “Thanks” to the people who have stepped in to help you solve a mystery or problem in your life.

I not only said thanks to Mark, but I also sent an email to his boss to express my appreciation for Mark’s help and guidance in solving my problem.   I hope my brief note will result in some recognition or reward for my new hero named Mark.

 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 http://www.efreedb.org.

Identity Theft in Chino Hills

Chino Hills Arrest Card Fraud 3

Photo courtesy: SBCS-Chino Hills

Over 80 Victims in 4 Counties
Staff Reports

 
Chino Hills – Officers arrested a Diamond Bar man on suspicion of identity theft, manufacturing or altering credit cards, and possession of credit card manufacturing equipment Dec. 2, Chino Hills’ sheriff officials said.

Chino Hills’ sheriff deputies discovered that Michael David Soriano, 35, had unlawfully obtained the identity, email, and credit card information from a Chino Hills resident, which he used at the Chino Hills Buffalo Wild Wings. Deputies traced the fraudulent activity to Soriano, and a search warrant was issued. Deputies confiscated several devices to manufacture and alter credit cards. Soriano was in possession of over 80 fraudulent credit cards. Additionally, deputies located numerous names, addresses, and credit card numbers that belonged to victims in San Bernardino, Orange, Los Angeles, and San Diego Counties. Numerous victims in those counties were contacted by deputies, who were not aware their personal information had been unlawfully obtained and used. Soriano was arrested and booked at the West Valley Detention Center.

 

 

Walnut Council Round Up

By Natalie Kim

WALNUT– The Dec. 9 Walnut City Council meeting began with a presentation concerning the upcoming El Niño season and how to properly prepare for it. Some safety preparedness tips that were discussed include creating survival kits for each member of your family, and awareness of the dangers of water, mud, and debris on the streets, as well as downed trees or power lines. More information concerning El Niño preparedness can be found at www.lacounty.gov/elnino.

The 2015 Family Festival Volunteer Committee was recognized for all of their efforts in putting together the Walnut Family Fun Festival. The Council applauded their hard work, which began months in advance of the festival itself, and thanked the Committee for creating one of the most successful events in Walnut.

Next, the “Robo Heroes”, a group of students from Suzanne Middle School, announced the results of their recycling project. By placing a large recycling bin, or “Hero Bin,” next to a smaller trash can, recycling increased by 19 percent.   The Hero Bin made recycling more convenient and included informational graphics which increased understanding of what should be recycled and what should not.

The Council then approved all items on the Consent Calendar, including the minutes from the Nov. 10 Council meeting; a resolution allowing claims and demands in the amount of $1,572,390.19; a request by Valley Vista Services for a rate adjustment for CPI increase; a part-time salary schedule change; a resolution amending a resolution regarding payment of salaries, sick leave, vacations, leave of absences and other regulations by revising general authorized positions/salary schedule; a contract extension for the city manager; an appropriation request for Richards, Watson & Gershon to perform special legal services for the City; an award of bid to HdL for business license processing; a request for the Rotary Club of Walnut Valley to conduct a 5k/10k Fun Run on March 5, 2016; a recommendation by Walnut Senior Commission to amend the Senior Center use policy; a request for appropriation of $2,850.41 from the general fund to be reimbursed by Foothill Transit for bus stop enhancements; a request for appropriation of $44,000 for storm drain and tree maintenance contracted services; El Niño preparation; an alcoholic beverage license application for HJH Sauce Simmer Pot; an alcoholic license application for Liquor Station; and sport group requests for Biannual Field Use for Spring 2016, including use of Butterfield Park from Feb. 1-July 31, 2016, use of Creekside Park on Jan. 9, 16 & 19 for tryouts and from Feb. 1-May 23, 2016; use of Snow Creek Park from Feb. 29-May 23,  2016; use of Suzanne Park on Jan. 23, and from Feb. 1-July 16 with the exception of July 1-6, and Feb. 1-June 30; use of Walnut Ranch Park from Feb. 1-June 4, and the use of Walnut Ranch Park on Sundays.

The comprehensive annual financial report for the period ended June 30, 2015 concluded that the city funds were still a healthy size, and that no major issues were found.

Before the meeting adjourned, Mayor Pacheco announced a Winter Wonderland event on Dec. 12, from 6-9 p.m. at the parking lot near the Walnut Senior Center. Councilmember Cartagena also announced a ribbon cutting event at Creekside Park for the fitness equipment on Dec. 14 from 9-11 a.m. Breakfast will be available for the first 100 people that attend. The meeting adjourned with plans to meet again on Jan. 13, 2016, at 7 p.m. at 21201 La Puente Rd.

Hagman Hosts Jolly Open House

Chino Hills HagmanStaffatXMAS open house by FB.jpg

Photo courtesy: Hagman’s office

By Monique Valadez

Chino Hills – San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman welcomed friends around the community to his annual Christmas open house Dec. 10 at the Chino Hills City Hall lobby. More than 70 people including Santa Claus turned up for the festive affair decked out with carolers from Diamond Ranch High School, sweet treats and tacos.

Among the participants were local city officials, public safety personnel, representatives from Pomona’s Assemblymember Freddie Rodriguez’s and Chino’s Senator Connie Leyva’s office and constituents from across San Bernardino County.

Hagman addressed the attendees, reaffirming his support for the lives lost in the horrific shooting in San Bernardino.

“It’s going to be a long healing process but together we are strong and will overcome this tragedy,” Hagman said.

“It was encouraging to see our community come together and support one another while remembering the season of hope.”

 

Collegewood Cares for Coben

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD Collegewood Elementary is collecting donations for the family of second grade cancer patient Coben Swanson.

Photo Courtesy: WVUSD
Collegewood Elementary is collecting donations for the family of second grade cancer patient Coben Swanson.

School looks to help 2nd grade cancer patient

By Kelli Gile 

Walnut – Three weeks ago, Collegewood Elementary second grader Coben Swanson was happy and healthy, playing with friends on the playground and getting ready to take a math test with classmates.

When persistent stomach pains sidelined him from school, he was taken to the doctor. The startling diagnosis was T-cell leukemia.

He is now fighting for his life and dealing with the side effects of chemotherapy. The seven-year-old is being cared for in the intensive care unit at Children’s Hospital of Orange County.

Coben’s school family learned of the situation through a letter from the school on Friday.

“The outpouring of love and support has been overwhelming,” said Principal Joan Perez.

The Walnut children and teachers immediately decided to send a Star Wars-themed video “get well card” for their friend, sharing personal messages in front of a “May the Force be With You” banner.
“We want to make sure that Coben knows that his friends are thinking and praying for him,” Perez added.

To show his support, fourth grade student Jordan Hernandez wore a “Friends don’t let friends battle alone” t-shirt while recording his message.

His second grade classmates and teacher Elvonne Vance sang two class songs for their friend during the videotaping.

“Coben is my hero,” Vance said.  “He is a student leader, he loves to help others, and he never gives up.”

The school hosted its annual Week of Giving from December 7-11. They collected ____ to support the Swanson family.

Anyone wishing to contribute may send a check payable to the Collegewood Community Club at 20725 Collegewood Drive, Walnut, CA 91789.