Category Archives: The Weekly News

Rent or Buy?

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

Most people start their independent living when they first move out of their parent’s home by renting.  They either choose to rent a room at another person’s home, or possibly move into a friend’s apartment. Many times they go from that living arrangement to sharing the cost of renting an apartment or house together with a few friends or just someone else.

Although everyone has their own decisions to make, and many different circumstances, across our country, we tend to follow a consumer pattern throughout our lives.  Many financial analysts have studied the consumer cycle, and an established pattern has been the following for our society at large: one first starts working in their early late teens and into the early 20’s, and then family formation follows in the mid-twenties to mid-thirties.  Typically, at the stage of family formation and into the cycle of a young family  is when most of us address the issue of “Buying versus Renting”.  At this stage, there are usually young children in the household, and the provision for a home with a yard for the children to play in becomes a major concern.

Currently, the rental rates are very high, and have been increasing substantially at 5% plus per year over the last 6-7 years. This highlights the need to stabilize the monthly housing cost, and with current interest rates, it is a very good time to lock in a low rate by buying a home. Many economists are predicting interest rates will increase this year.  Just this week, the Federal Reserve approved its second rate hike of the year, increasing its benchmark interest rate by one-quarter percent.  This rate hike eventually gets spread out to consumer interest rates.

There are many other factors that come into making a decision on whether to Rent or Buy. Next week, I will provide in more detail those factors, as well as show a point by point comparison on the options.

This article was written by Nef Cortez, a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca BRE # 00560181 since 1976. He can be reached via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com.  Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.

 

Seitan Tacos El Diablo

with Kiwi Salsa and Lime Crema

 

By Hello Fresh

 

Cooking Time: 30 mins

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 650 Calories

Ingredients:

 

  • Red Onion- 2
  • Poblano Pepper- 2
  • Roma Tomato- 2
  • Kiwis- 4
  • Cilantro- 1/2 oz
  • Limes- 2
  • Chorizo Seitan- 16 oz
  • Sour Cream- 8 tbsp
  • Flour Tortillas- 12

 

 

1  PREP.    Wash and dry all produce. Halve, peel, and thinly slice onion. Mince a few slices until you have 3 TBSP minced onion. Core and seed poblano, then thinly slice. Core and seed tomato, then dice into ¼-inch cubes. Peel kiwis, then dice into ¼-inch cubes. Finely chop cilantro. Zest lime until you have a big pinch of zest, then cut into wedges.

 

2  MAKE KIWI SALSA.    Combine tomato, minced onion, kiwis, a squeeze of lime juice, and half the cilantro in a small bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and more lime juice (to taste). Set aside.

 

3 COOK VEGGIES.      Heat a large drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add poblano and sliced onion. Season with salt and pepper. Cook, tossing, until softened and slightly charred, 3-5 minutes.

 

4  WARM SEITAN.      Add seitan and another drizzle of oil to pan and toss to combine. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until seitan is warmed through and starting to brown, about 5 minutes. Reduce heat to low to keep warm, stirring occasionally.

 

5  MAKE LIME CREMA.    In another small bowl, combine lime zest, a squeeze of lime juice, and sour cream. Season with salt, pepper, and more lime juice (to taste).

 

6  FINISH AND SERVE.    Wrap tortillas in a damp paper towel and microwave on high until warm, about 30 seconds. Fill tortillas with seitan mixture, then top with kiwi salsa and dollop with lime crema. Sprinkle with remaining cilantro. Serve with any remaining lime wedges on the side for squeezing over.

Wanna Get Away? AAA Travel Has Your Ticket

By Anthony Saude

I wanted to be a AAA member so that I didn’t have to go to the DMV and stand in line for hours on end just to register my car. When I walked into the office I was delighted to see that they offered so many other services that I could take advantage of. It just so happened that my family was planning a vacation. I decided to stay around and spend a little more time learning about all of the services my membership would allow me.

Everybody knows about or has heard about AAA Automobile Club DMV services and roadside assistance if your car breaks down on the side of the road and those are great things to have. You might even know that they have maps and discounts for all your travel needs but did you know that they have a full service travel agency as well?

“AAA travel is a full service Travel Agency which offers personalized service to members and non-members for all of their travel needs,” says Diamond Bar branch manager, Beth Planavsky. Whether you want to embark on a weekend staycation, a cross-country road trip, or an excursion to the other side of the globe, “Our travel agents are very experienced and knowledgeable about all travel destinations,” said Beth. Where ever your plans take you, a personal travel agent will be assigned to you to make sure you get a customized once in a lifetime vacation experience. From taking your passport photo, to planning your itinerary step by step, to making sure that you take advantage of the full spectrum of discounts that are available to you along the way, AAA travel has your back. Members can also access a variety of travel resources including vacation guides and free maps for your domestic travel needs.

Beth said, “Providing legendary service to our members is our number one goal here at the Diamond Bar Branch.” With all the AAA discounts that you get, the personalized service and Beth with her 30 years of experience in the industry a visit to the Diamond Bar Branch makes sense. When you are there you might as well check out all of the other services that AAA has to offer as well, like we said they are a “one stop shop.”

Visit the Travel Agency at the Automobile Club of Southern California Diamond Bar office located in the Country Hills Towne Center. 2843 S. Diamond Bar Blvd, Diamond Bar, CA 91765 on the corner of Diamond Bar Blvd and Fountain Springs 909-444-029 serving Diamond Bar, Walnut, Chino Hills, Rowland Heights and Pomona.

How to Be More Creative in the New Year

By StatePoint

Those with creative or artistic aspirations know that consistently staying motivated and inspired is easier said than done.

Whether you’re a songwriter, a poet or a visual artist, these tried-and-true habits and new tools can help you to create your best work in the new year.

Me Time

A little bit of me-time goes a long way. Carve out some space each week for your own pursuits beyond the time spent working on projects. Learn where and when you do your best thinking, brainstorming and reflection. Is it on a morning walk through the park? Do you need complete silence? Don’t be afraid to request some solitude from loved ones. This may also be a good opportunity to disconnect from your devices for a bit. Leave your phone off or at home so you aren’t tempted to distract yourself.

Innovative Tools

New technology can actually inspire you to be more creative, revolutionizing the way you plan, design and write by hand. For example, many creative people are turning to devices called eWriters, electronic tablets which combine the functionality of notepads, sketchbooks, memo books and more, and which offer unique features you don’t get with traditional pen and paper.

For example, Blackboard by Boogie Board is the first ever writing tool featuring Liquid Crystal Paper for a comfortable, natural inkless pen on paper-like writing (and erasing) experience with no lag or delay. Its transparent writing surface allows users to write on any document, photo, map or digital screen, and several templates are included, such as lines, grids and more, which is ideal for collaborative editing. A free app makes saving, organizing, searching and sharing work, doodles and edits easy. And because it works on a replaceable five-year battery, users don’t have to worry about chargers or outlets, making it a convenient tool to use wherever inspiration strikes.

Set up a Work Space

While you should be prepared to create wherever the spirit moves you, having a dedicated workspace at home is a good idea. Be sure it’s comfortable, away from distractions and brightly lit. Make it a space you want to spend time. Add flowers or plants, artwork and other items that inspire you.

Get Inspired

Who do you most admire? You may get inspired by learning more about your greatest artistic heroes. Read their biographies to learn what made them tick and how they spent their days.

This New Year, resolve to adopt new habits. Innovating the ways that you work can help you to be more creative.

Total Divas Star Natalie Eva Marie: “I Am an Alcoholic”

Natalie Eva Marie is many things: pro wrestler, Total Divas star, fitness model, and actress (she made her film debut in last summer’s Inconceivable). She is also an alcoholic. Here, the multi-hyphenate pens a moving essay about learning to manage her disease after her life-saving admission that she needed help. 

I’m an alcoholic. I have relapsed, destroyed relationships, hurt my family, and disappointed myself numerous times. I will be an alcoholic for the rest of my life. The fact that I have been sober for almost five years doesn’t mean that I am “cured,” it doesn’t mean that I had a drinking phase in my 20s, and it doesn’t mean that I can have a few drinks now and again or just drink in moderation. There are no shades of gray when it comes to alcoholism—it’s black and white. Either I am an alcoholic or I am not. Working a program doesn’t mean my past magically disappears and everything is fine. Unfortunately, nothing of note in life is that simple or easy. Yet the road to my recovery did start with a very simple admission: I am an alcoholic. And admitting that truth saved my life.

Alcoholism is a disease. People will debate whether it is a disease of the mind, of genetics, or of circumstances. I don’t have the answer to that debate, and frankly I don’t care because when you try to pinpoint “why,” it can often lead to blaming another person, an incident in your past, or circumstances. I am goal-oriented, and my goal is to live a healthy, fulfilling, productive life with long-lasting and meaningful relationships. In order to do that, I focus on the treatment. Because regardless of the cause, I have the disease, and I am ultimately the only one responsible for seeking help.

Before I started working my 12-step program, my mind was a mess, my life was a mess, and I’d hit rock bottom. I served three months in jail for repeated DUIs. I didn’t have a license, I didn’t have a stable job, and I was living in an apartment that I could only afford due to a heavy discount my landlord offered me because a murder had taken place there between the previous tenants. That’s what my life looked like right before I started down my road to sobriety.

Now, I am married, have multiple thriving businesses, a career in entertainment that I could only have dreamed of, and live in a beautiful home with my husband. But here’s the thing: I am still an alcoholic. This fairytale life is always one drink away from shattering. That’s why I attend 6 a.m. AA meetings multiple times a week and do weekly step work with my sponsor. It’s also why, at meetings, I’m always on the lookout for women to sponsor myself. It is work, and it is time consuming, but it is the best change I’ve ever made in my life. Like I said earlier, it’s very black and white.

Here’s what I wish someone told me back then: Your life won’t magically transform overnight. There will be extreme highs and extreme lows. The chances are that you will relapse at least once—but do not quit. To those starting a program, stick with it. Keep pushing forward no matter how hard it gets. I promise you it’s worth it.

A Famous Photo

By Mark Hopper

Three years ago, my wife and I celebrated Christmas with our whole family in Lisbon, Portugal.  Our four adult children, three son-in-laws and seven grandchildren were all together for five memorable days.

My wife’s mother was unable to travel with us to Portugal, but she sent some money to purchase gifts for all of her great-grandchildren. Instead of purchasing more gifts for these seven young children, we decided to use the money to take them to the Lisbon Zoo.

The weather in December in Portugal is very similar to what we have here in California. The day we went to the Zoo the temperatures were cool with clear skies.

After we bought our tickets and walked through the front gate we were met by a professional photographer who was waiting to take our picture. Everyone was in a good mood and even the younger kids were pretty cooperative as we posed for a picture. Members of the Zoo staff gave us several colorful birds for us to hold while they took our photo.

Our day at the Lisbon Zoo was a winner. The children and adults enjoyed seeing the beautiful animals and several shows that were scheduled during the day. They even have a very nice Dolphin show!

At the end of the day, we stopped by the store where they sold copies of the pictures taken at the front gate.  We purchased a copy for each family so they would have a photo memory of our day at the Zoo.

One of the lessons that I have learned about family pictures is to take them early in the day. Children and adults are usually in a good mood when people are arriving. Sometimes kids and adults can be less cooperative when it comes to taking pictures at the end of the day.

There have been times when some family members needed to leave early to go on to other activities.  I know there have been times at some of our family gatherings when we waited to long to get a group picture.  Don’t wait until it is too late. Take those groups pictures early not later.  At the Zoo, they take group pictures at the entrance not at the exit.

The other lesson I have learned is that no family photo is perfect.  In our famous photo at the Lisbon Zoo, several of the grandkids were distracted and were not looking at the camera. The colorful birds added a lot to our picture, but the younger children were distracted and a little uncomfortable holding these big birds with their hands or on their shoulders.

My suggestion is that you don’t expect perfection. Just be thankful that you can get a photo with your whole family. During this holiday season, take time to take a few pictures. You will be glad you did and your family will too!

Pastor Mark Hopper

Efree Church of Diamond Bar

3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd

909-594-7604

Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM

Efreedb.org

 

Dreams Become Reality When You Believe In Yourself

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

We all have dreams for our life.  Why is it that some of us turn our dreams into reality and some of us just keep dreaming?  Why do some of us find the motivation to make our dreams come true and others just give up?  I believe we are all capable of getting what we want from our lives.  I also think we all have the potential to grow into somebody that we are proud of being.  I think what sets a person apart is they believe they can or they believe they can’t.

I find it very sad when I see somebody with a vision of what their life could be, yet they think they can’t ever obtain the life they are suppose to have.  This person somehow has never been taught to believe in themselves and now gets cheated out of the life they should have had.  This is where really effective parenting is so very essential.  We also need to help those not so effectively parented reach for the sky as well.  We need to not give up on our dreams, ourselves and each other.

Dreams can become our wonderful reality if we create a plan with the correct steps.  Think about every other goal that you have met and the plan that was made up of baby steps.  I promise you that if you have a dream and want it to become your reality all you have to do is trust yourself and take the steps that turn dreams into reality.  The first step is having the faith and trust inside yourself to believe that you can do it.  Never lose sight of the already wonderful you and think of your plan as just adding to that wonderful person!!!!!!!!!!!!

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 and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

 

We Grind Coffee Not Life at “It’s A Grind”

By Anthony Saude

 

Diamond Bar – I love coffee, all kinds of coffee; honestly I haven’t gone a day without coffee in decades. One might say I am a coffee connoisseur. I am not a drive thru type of person I love to go inside and smell the heavenly aroma, look at the pastries, maybe even read a book and relax; I just love the atmosphere of coffee shops. In today’s America with a coffee shop on almost every corner you can imagine how happy and fulfilling a day can be for me.

During my extensive research I discovered that different coffee shops might have a pastry I like better or better merchandise for sale and still others might have a favorite coffee drink of mine. One day, while out running some errands I saw a coffee shop I had never been in before, it’s called “It’s a Grind.” I have been a regular customer there ever since.

“It’s a Grind” has everything that I love there and I know you will love it too. The coffee is for sure the best feature about it. It is by far the most exceptional coffee I have tasted compared to any of the other places I’ve been. Remember, that is a lot of places. In addition to that the atmosphere isn’t a cyber lounge for college students.

The décor is made for comfort and relaxation with big comfy chairs and couches. Nancy Lien, the owner of the It’s A Grind in Diamond Bar said, “Our philosophy is that a coffee shop should be a place to relax during your busy day even if it is for a short time.”  “Life is too short we want to provide a place where you can slow down, drink your coffee and enjoy what you have in your life.”

The pastries are top notch and if you have the time they also have delicious freshly made breakfast or lunch sandwiches for your enjoyment. They really have so many non coffee shop features, like they offer catering with free delivery in the City of Diamond Bar. “We have monthly events, this month we will be bringing you a live Rock and Roll night on January 26th at 7:30 p.m.,” said Lien

For a limited time they are offering a 10% discount on your total purchase when you bring the ad that is located in this issue. If you want the advice of a coffee professional do not just pass this “It’s a Grind” location up, you will be missing out. You can find them at:

1223 S. Diamond Bar Blvd, Diamond Bar CA 91765.

Give them a call for catering or event information at (909)860-5120

Look them up on Facebook: ItsAGrindDiamondBar

Instagram: @itsagrind_db

Or log on to the website:www.itsagrind.com

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 1.20.18

The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire.Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: Weekly01.20.2018 (1)

Dr. Axe and Jordan Rubin coming to Clarks

By Michael Armijo

 

Chino – Education is the key to nutrition and Clark’s Nutrition & Natural Foods Market in Chino is holding a Free lecture on “The Ancient Diet” this Wednesday, Jan. 26, at 6 pm. Clarks is located at 12835 Mountain Ave. (cross street Riverside Dr.) in Chino, 91710

Jordan Rubin and Dr. Axe, the featured speakers, will be discussing what the millions of people are discovering in the value of the Keto diet and the use of Bone Broth Protein.

It’s a rare treat for local community members to learn more about the Keto diet for free as Rubin is regarded by many as one of the most respected and beloved natural health experts in America. His personal account of his battle and triumph over Crohn’s disease has resonated with millions around the world and is one of the most dramatic natural health stories ever told. A successful entrepreneur, New York Times best-selling author, international motivational speaker and television personality. Jordon’s message of health and wellness is a beacon to the masses that are looking for answers to help take control of their health.

Dr. Josh Axe, DNM, DC, CNS, is a certified doctor of natural medicine, doctor of chiropractic and clinical nutritionist with a passion to help people get healthy by using food as medicine. In 2008, he started a functional medicine center in Nashville, which grew to become one of the most renowned clinics in the world.

He founded one of the most visited natural health website in the world at DrAxe.com, which has over 15 million monthly visitors, where the main topics include nutrition, natural medicine, fitness, healthy recipes, home remedies and trending health news.

Come hear from two icons in the Natural foods industry, but sign up fast as space is limited. You can sign-up at the cashiers desk. You can also get great deals on Keto diet products and Bone Broth protein products on the day of the lecture. For more information please contact Clarks Nutrition at 909.993.9200, visit the store at 12835 Mountain Ave, Chino, CA 91710, or sign onto http://www.ClarksNutrition.com.

Sheriff Golf Tournament Honors Former DB Mayor Jack Tanaka

By Michael Armijo

Walnut, Diamond Bar – The Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club will host a golf tournament in honor of former Diamond Bar Mayor Jack Tanaka on April 2, 2018. Tanaka passed away in August of last year after a battle with cancer. He spent 10 years as a city council member and mayor.

“Jack was always the first to contribute to our annual golf tournaments, always stopping by the booster club booth at the city birthday party, and a fervent support of the volunteers who serve at the Sheriff’s station,” said Booster Club President Gil Rivera.

Tanaka stated that the city council, staff and residents have made his 10 years of service memorable and a great learning experience. His last day in office was be Dec. 1, 2016.

Tanaka, first elected in 2005, served twice as the city’s mayor and served on the City’s Planning Commission for more than three years. He said he wanted to spend more time with family, but will still remain active in the community who he considers family.
A retired U.S. Army Sergeant and former peace officer with the California Youth Authority and State Department of Corrections, Tanaka was first elected to the Diamond Bard city council in 2005.
A constant fixture in the community, Tanaka and his wife Wanda devoted much of their time to helping out in the community especially youth. From the Miss Diamond Bar Pageant and the local Humane Society to community birthday parties and city concerts, the Tanaka’s were always there to lend a helping hand.
The Tanakas moved to Diamond Bar in 1976 and have since remained actively involved in community matters. In 2012, the couple was honored with Lions Clubs International’s Lion of the Year Award, the organization’s highest honor and usually given to only one person in the world. This is one of many reasons he has earned the honor of being recognized by the Sheriff’s annual event.

“Thousands of hours are donated annually by our department’s volunteers, explorers, reserves and disaster communication specialists,” Captain Alfred Reyes said in an earlier statement last year.  “From vacation checks and traffic control to color guard and keeping disaster communication equipment ready in case of emergency, these are a few of the many services they provide the community.”

If you would like to contribute and/or cannot attend and would like to donate, the Booster Club is looking for 150 minimum promotional product donations to help in honoring the volunteers.
The registration will be at 9:30 a.m. to 11:15 a.m. and followed by a Shotgun Start of 11:15a.m. on  April 8 at the Western Hills Country Club, 1800 Carbon Canyon Rd., in Chino Hills. A luncheon will immediately follow the tournament.

Since 1987, the Walnut/Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club has provided thousands of dollars to the Reserve, Volunteer, Explorer, and Disaster Communication Services (DCS) programs for the Cities of Diamond Bar and Walnut, and the community of Rowland Heights, to finance needs not funded by the County, Cities, or the Sheriff’s Department.

This cannot be accomplished without participation from local businesses, as well as individual citizens. Membership in the Booster Club helps ensure that needed funding for these auxiliary programs is available to help protect our communities and provide a high degree of safety for our citizens.

Sponsorship opportunities are available as follows:
Platinum sponsor – $3,000- Includes 16 players/four teams, recognition during the awards luncheon, repeated advertising of your company in Our Weekly newspaper and during the tournament, name placement on event signage and a recognition certificate from the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club.
Gold sponsor – $2,000- Includes 8 players/two teams, recognition in Our Weekly newspaper, recognition during the awards luncheon, name placement on event signage and a recognition certificate from the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club.
Silver sponsor – $1,000-Includes one team of four players and a recognition certificate from the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sheriff’s Booster Club.
Other sponsorship opportunities include- Soft drink/Beer Cart Sponsors for $1,000, Hole-In-One sponsor for $500, Goodie Bag Sponsor for $500, Closest-to-the-Pin Sponsor for $400, and Tee Sign Sponsorship for $100.
Captain Reyes encourages community members to join this fun and meaningful tournament to continue to help provide the needed uniforms and equipment to the people who volunteer their time to improve the service and security to the cities of Walnut and Diamond Bar, and the unincorporated communities of Rowland Heights, Covina Hills and West Covina.

“Each year we hold an annual golf tournament to raise funds for this event among other needs the department needs that are not on the budget from the county,” said Sheriff Booster President Gil Rivera of www.SellYourCasa.com. “They give generously of their time to help in many areas including patrol and vacation home checks, in addition to thousands of hours at sobriety check points and school traiffic assistance.”

For information and reservations, contact Sgt. Mark Saldecke, volunteer coordinator, at (909) 595-2264, mcsaldec@lasd.org or Gil Rivera, booster club member at (909) 967-4525, GRiveraEmail@gmail.com.

Why Sell Now?!

Nef Cortez

By Nef Cortez

How can it be a good time to buy and at the same time a good time to sell?

Real Estate is local!  Although Macroeconomic factors are the overall influence on the real estate market, individual property values are most influenced by local market conditions. We have all heard the mantra “Location, Location, Location!” in describing the desirability of homes. The right area…the right school district…and for some people, even the right orientation.

So when is it a good time to sell?

Now would be a good time to sell and “move up”, If you are going to outgrow your current residence within 2-5 years, thereby locking in an interest rate that is still close to historical lows at just under 4 %.

If you are going to downsize due to retirement, or have become an empty nester, it is a good time to sell and lock in the dramatic gains achieved by the huge increase in property values over the last 5 years. Even if you go out and rent for a while, because you are not able to determine exactly where you want to settle in…it might be better to rent in a couple of different locations, sort of “scouting” those areas out to make sure you like them before making the permanent investment.

This article was written by Nef Cortez, a licensed Real Estate Broker, Ca BRE # 00560181 since 1976. He can be reached via e-mail at nefcortez@gmail.com.  Please feel free to email any questions regarding real estate.

 

 

 

New Ways to Improve the Way You Feel

By StatePoint

Nearly 25 million Americans experience daily physical discomfort, according to the National Institutes of Health, which can affect mood, mobility and quality of life.

While the reasons for discomfort vary, the way it is experienced doesn’t — peripheral nerves are responsible for delivering sensory information, such as itch, temperature change and physical pressure to the brain.

With this in mind, experts are identifying new ways to promote nerve health and comfort by inhibiting inflammatory compounds in nerve cells, and at the same time, encouraging healthy neurotransmitter levels in the brain.

They have discovered that a fatty acid called palmitoylethanolamide (PEA), produced naturally by the body as part of a healthy inflammatory and immune response, inhibits the secretion of inflammatory compounds from mast cells, a type of white blood cell. As we age, our number of mast cells decreases, causing our remaining mast cells to work harder. That can make them overly sensitive, activating inflammatory processes linked to nerve discomfort.

“By inhibiting inflammatory compounds released by mast cells, PEA promotes the body’s natural response to uncomfortable nerve stimuli at the cellular level,” says Michael A. Smith, M.D., senior health scientist and spokesperson for Fort Lauderdale, Fla.-based Life Extension.

Smith points out that it is now possible to take PEA in supplement form. One option is Life Extension’s ComfortMAX, a dual-action nerve support supplement which contains both PEA as well as Honokiol, a naturally occurring lignan compound derived from magnolia that is shown to support “calming” receptors in the brain, known as GABA receptors, which affect the way the brain perceives discomfort.

These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and these products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease, however, many experts believe they can be effective in pain management. More information can be found at http://www.lecomfortmax.com.

“It’s only natural to think topically or locally when we wish to inhibit discomfort. However, taking in the bigger picture could mean more effective relief,” says Dr. Smith.

Big Boy Pants

By Anthony Saude

When I got married I knew absolutely nothing about what that would mean to me as a man nor did I want to. I would just be me and do what I do and she can deal with that. She married me, right? Men aren’t like women; we don’t think and plan our wedding or our marriage. I was once told that is like going to the Olympics and starting your training after the opening ceremony.

A lack of training is exactly what started with and I wasn’t going to change or do anything different and that was final. She was the root of all our problems, she was rigid and she needed to change not me. Funny how we want others to do exactly what we ourselves refuse to do.

One day, don’t ask me when, but I can tell you that Jesus was the why, I realized that I needed a lot of work myself. Does that mean that my beautiful wife was perfect, absolutely not? I was off the rails and in the process of leaving massive amounts of wreckage in my wake. I had no idea how to process that information and for a long time I didn’t. I decided to work on being a better father, surely that would cover the inadequacies I had as a husband. Then maybe she would work on herself and I could be right again.

One day I realized it was time to put on my “big boy pants” and start acting like a man and not a boy. I had to take responsibility for my own behavior and stop blaming her for our troubles. Wow, I sure have a lot of faults, we all do, but I only saw hers. When I looked at me I saw mine and began to see the beauty in hers. I remembered why I fell in love with her, I saw her again because I began to see me. I don’t know if she can see my “big boy pants” but I can and that is all that counts.

Two Residential Burglary Suspects Arrested In Diamond Bar

Staff Reports

Diamond Bar – Two residential Burglary suspects were arrested on 01/05/2018 at approximately 01:00 am in the city of Diamond Bar.

Deputies responded to a call regarding suspicious males in the area of Golden Springs and Rancheria. After a search of the area, the responding deputy saw a male sitting in the vehicle that matched the description and detained the suspect. A search of the vehicle was conducted and revealed a large amount of stolen property along with burglary tools.

The second suspect was detained and arrested while on foot in the immediate area, his identification was later found in the vehicle near the stolen property.

Anyone who witnessed anything at that time and place is encouraged to call the station at 909.595.2264 or call the we-tip hotline at 800 78-CRIME.

How to Protect Your Expensive New Smartphone

By StatePoint

The latest smartphones have some cool new features, but they come with hefty price tags, and such devices are not necessarily built-to-last. The new iPhone X, for example, recently hit the market at a $1,000 starting price and experts say it’s extremely fragile.

With its all-glass design, you may be wondering if it’s worth the investment. Recent tests conducted by SquareTrade using scientific robots to drop, bend, tumble, and dunk devices, revealed the iPhone X to be one of the most breakable iPhone models ever made, shattering on its first face down drop.

“Without taking a few key precautions, consumers are likely going to spend more than the $1,000 they’ve already invested in their phone over their devices’ lifetime,” says Jason Siciliano, vice president global creative director at SquareTrade.

To protect your investment, whether you have an iPhone X or any another mobile device, Siciliano recommends the following.

Cover Up

Your new phone may have a sleek design you want to show off, but not using a case is a big mistake. With so many designs on the market, as well as opportunities to customize, there is no reason these days not to better protect your phone. The breakability tests conducted by SquareTrade revealed damage that went beyond cosmetic issues, compromising the device’s operability in a number of ways. Consider what your hobbies include, and find a case durable enough to withstand your lifestyle. A screen protector is also a great idea, guarding against scratches and residue.

Get Covered

With potential repair costs on the rise, protection plans are becoming more important than ever. For example, the iPhone X has a thinner, costlier OLED screen that’s more expensive to replace, a smaller logic board, multiple cables, and a split battery that’s more difficult to remove. All of which may be why Apple is charging $279 for front screen replacement and $549 for other repairs.

Accidents are often beyond one’s control. So, don’t have a false sense of security regarding drops and spills. However, protection plans can be affordable. For example, those offered by SquareTrade cover old or new devices, for both accidents and common malfunctions such as battery failure and charging port failure. Phones can be repaired at-home, at local repair shops or by mail. And if you have an Apple device, you can simply have your Genius Bar bill reimbursed. For more information on protection plans for today’s most popular smartphones, visit squaretrade.com.

Being a savvy consumer goes beyond making the latest tech purchase. It also means making your purchase last. Take smart steps to protect your smartphone.

Crispy Cheddar Frico Cheeseburgers

with Caramelized Onion Jam and Roasted Broccoli

 

By Hello Fresh

 

Servings: 4

Nutrition: 800 Calories

 

Ingredients:

 

  • Red Onion- 1
  • Roma Tomato- 2
  • Brioche Buns- 4
  • Ground Beef- 20 oz
  • Broccoli Florets- 16 oz
  • Sherry Vinegar- 5 tsp
  • Cheddar Cheese- 1 cup
  • Ketchup- 4 tbsp

 

1 PREHEAT AND PREP. Wash and dry all produce. Adjust rack to upper position and preheat oven to 425 degrees. Halve, peel, and thinly slice onion. Slice tomato into rounds. Split buns in half. Shape beef into two evenly sized patties (make them slightly wider than the buns).

 

2  ROAST BROCCOLI. Toss broccoli on a baking sheet with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast in oven until lightly crisped, 15-20 minutes.

 

3 MAKE ONION JAM. Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook, tossing, until soft, 5-6 minutes. Stir in 3 tsp vinegar (we sent more) and 1 tsp sugar. Simmer until liquid is nearly evaporated, 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a small bowl and set aside.

 

4 MAKE CHEDDAR FRICO. Line another baking sheet with parchment paper. Place cheddar on it in two even piles. Bake in oven until melted in middle and crispy at the edges, 5-7 minutes. TIP: If you don’t have parchment, that’s OK. As soon as the frico come out of the oven, transfer to a plate to cool using a spatula.

 

5   COOK BURGERS AND TOAST BUNS.  Meanwhile, wipe out pan used for onion jam and heat a drizzle of olive oil in it over medium-high heat. Season patties all over with salt and pepper. Add to pan and cook to desired doneness, 3-6 minutes per side. Meanwhile, remove cheddar frico from baking sheet. Discard parchment and place buns on sheet. Toast in oven until golden, 3-4 minutes.

 

6   ASSEMBLE BURGERS. Fill each bun with a burger, onion jam, tomato slices, ketchup, and a cheddar frico. Serve with broccoli on the side.

An Invitation for Wellness in 2018

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

By Nancy Stoops

As we celebrate a brand New Year it’s also time to celebrate ourselves.  I would like to extend an invitation to all of you to my Taste of Wellness 2018 event sponsored by the city of Walnut and facilitated by me.  This wonderful and free event will take place Saturday January 20, 2018 at the Walnut Senior Center located at 21215 La Puente Rd. in the city of Walnut.  Their phone number is (909) 598-6200 and all you have to do is call to reserve your spot today.  This event will offer talks and worksheets on mindfulness and pain management, meditation, nutrition and how to eat to function at an optimum level, Reiki, proper stretching techniques and free chair massages, yoga, a free tea and snack bar and door prizes.

Last year we had over one hundred people attend our first wellness event and I would love to top those numbers this year.  I can’t think of a better way to start off the New Year then by attending an even that will teach you so many wonderful ways to embrace wellness into 2018!  I personally will be running two of the four workshops offered and would love for all of you readers to come out to this amazing opportunity to enhance you wellbeing.  This will be the first of a series of three workshops that I will have the honor of facilitating for the city of Walnut.  I’m very excited to share all the facets of my very healthy lifestyle that has served me so very well for my life.  I will be discussing so many common sense ways to help yourself and just feel better so you can all improve the very quality of your life.  I look forward to seeing all of you there and sharing all of the secrets that have provided me and my patients with a life of quality and joy!!!!!

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

 

Walnut Valley USD to begin enrolling for 2018-19 school year

By Kelli Gile

WALNUT—The Walnut Valley Unified School District will soon begin registration for the 2018-2019 school year for children in transitional kindergarten and kindergarten through fifth grade.

Registration dates are:

January 16-19, 2018—for those children with siblings already attending school in our district;

January 22, 2018 & on—for those elementary children new to the district, at any grade level.

You may register for transitional kindergarten if your child turns 5 years old September 2nd – December 2nd.  Students must be 5 years of age on or before September 1, to enroll in kindergarten for the 2018-2019 school year.

Space is limited!  Please visit your neighborhood elementary school to enroll your child for the upcoming school year.

At the time of registration, parents will be asked to present a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate or passport, proof of the child’s immunizations, and for kindergarten and first grade proof of an oral health examination.  For residency verification, parents will also need to provide either final escrow papers, mortgage statement or lease/rental agreement, along with a current utility bill (gas, water or electric bill) and a driver’s license (or California I.D.) with current home address.  Enrollment is on-going, and your residence address determines the elementary school where you should enroll your child.

The Walnut Valley Unified School District offers a quality day care program at all elementary sites, for both before and after school hours.  You may contact the Child Care Office at 909-444-3460 for additional information and fees.

Shown:

A strong start for young learners! Walnut Valley USD will soon begin registration for transitional kindergarten (shown) and kindergarten through fifth grade for the 2018-2019 school year.

 

Corona Man Is Run Over on 15 Freeway

By Anthony Saude

Corona – An accident on the north bound 15 freeway in Corona claimed the life of a young man from Corona California on New Year’s Day. Brett Mckinney was only 22 years old when he was pronounced dead at the scene just south of the Dos Lagos Drive exit.

According to CHP reports Mckinney was traveling in the back seat of a 2016 Volkswagen Jetta that was headed north when he opened the right side rear door and fell out onto the freeway. The CHP news release stated that the reason he opened the door is still unclear and for obvious reasons still under investigation.

Mckinney fell out of the car at around 2:20 am on January 1, and onto the 15 freeway. That was when a large 3 axel truck without a trailer attached happened to be passing by, ran Mckinney over and he was killed. The CHP news release sid that it is still unclear if the driver of the truck realized if he had run over Mckinney or anything at all for that matter.

The CHP asks anyone with information on the incident to call 951-637-8000.

When the CHP was contacted for further information on January 5, they said that “there isn’t any new information about the incident available at this time, the investigation is ongoing”.