Category Archives: The Weekly News

A Simple Spring Cleaning Checklist

By StatePoint

It’s the time of year to roll up your sleeves and do some spring cleaning. Experts point out that it’s helpful to streamline the tools you use to do the job and the tasks you seek to accomplish.

“An all-purpose cleaner and a tough degreasing agent can be used in so many areas of the home,” says Jeff Devlin, a licensed contractor who’s appeared on several home improvement television shows. Devlin’s first tip: look to reduce the number of products in your cleaning arsenal. “Along with high-quality sprays and cloths, I use one all-purpose cleaner that also contains degreasing ingredients.”

Devlin, along with Mean Green and its line of heavy-duty, all-purpose cleaners offer these different strategies for critical areas of your home.

  • Stove and range hoods: While you should be cleaning these areas regularly after food preparation, take this opportunity to conduct a more thorough cleaning. Spray cleaner directly on the mess for up to two minutes. Wipe clean with a sponge or cloth. Then rinse thoroughly with clean water.
  • Sinks and countertops: Sinks and countertops can be a trap for food, grease, grime and soap scum. Generously spray non-porous surfaces with your cleaner then rinse with clean water.
  • Stove exhaust filter: The grease buildup that collects on the stove’s exhaust filter can be a tough nut to crack. In a sink basin, mix 8 ounces of a concentrated multi-surface cleaner and 1 gallon of hot water and submerge the filter. Place the filter in a sink or dishpan and pour in concentrated cleaner to cover. Allow the filter to soak for 30 minutes. Drain the dishpan and rinse thoroughly with hot water.
  • Floors: Give your floors a mopping. Mix 4 ounces of cleaning solution with 1 gallon of warm water. Apply with mop or sponge.
  • Garbage cans and diaper pails: Bags often leak nastiness into the bottom of the garbage can, which can easily be missed when quickly replacing the bag. Turn your cleanser’s nozzle to spray and generously cover the can. Wipe or brush any areas that have any residue. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
  • Showers, tubs and tile: Use your cleaning agent at full strength and generously spray surfaces directly. Allow it to penetrate the soap scum for up to two minutes. Do not allow to dry. Wipe away with a coarse sponge or cloth. Rinse thoroughly with clean water.
  • Toilets: Let’s face it. This isn’t anyone’s favorite job but it has to be done. Turn that nozzle to spray and generously spray the outside of the toilet. Wipe clean with a paper towel, then give a quick rinse.
  • Patio: For patios, outdoor furniture, concrete, vinyl fences and siding, use the same cleaner outdoors: simply spray, then wipe clean with a cloth or sponge and rinse surfaces with clean water. While you’re at it, consider removing grease and grime from tools, engine parts, tires, sports gear and lawn equipment.

For efficiency, consider cleaning solutions that don’t require pre-cleaning, such as Mean Green Super Strength Cleaner & Degreaser, the strongest all-purpose cleaner available. More tips for getting your spring to-dos completed can be found at meangreendegreaser.com.

“Make spring cleaning simple and effective by using smart strategies on every surface of your home,” said Devlin.

Getting Fit

3864.jpgCourtesy Women’s Health Mag.com

Getting stronger is a beautiful thing. It’s what helps you see more definition and build more metabolism-boosting muscle. But according to new research in Current Biology, it also causes you to burn fewer calories during each workout.

For the study, researchers examined 300 men and women, specifically their levels of physical activity and the number of calories they burned each day. They found that while moderately active people burned about 200 more calories per day than the most sedentary participants, the most physically active people didn’t burn any more calories than those who were only moderately active.

“Think about your job. When you first started, there were some learning curves, it took more energy and more time, but you became more efficient,” he says. Exercise works the same way. Your body adapts to a specific demand. So you naturally become more efficient, and use less energy [a.k.a. calories] to meet that demand.” says California-based trainer Mike Donavanik, C.S.C.S.

But that’s no reason to forgo exercise in the name of weight loss or, more importantly, fat loss. After all, you want to lose fat, not muscle. Right? One obesity study of 439 women found that those who ate healthy and exercised lost considerably more body fat than those who stuck with dieting alone.

So how do you make sure every sweat session helps you burn more? Follow these rules of exercising for weight loss

Get FIIT
When it comes to making sure your body never gets too comfy with your workout, you’ve got to cozy up to the FIIT principle. It stands for frequency, intensity, time, and type—the four factors that determine the exact stress you put on your body during a given workout, says Donavanik. Changing up any one of them “surprises” and challenges your body in a new way. Remember, as long as your body is forced to adapt to progressively challenging workouts, it’s going to burn more calories during every workout. It’s when your body gets used to your current workouts that things start to plateau. “Look to change one to two of these variables every four to six weeks and you’ll keep losing weight,” he says.

And HIIT
In one 2013 study from Human Performance Laboratory at the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, people who performed a 20-minute HIIT workout torched 15 calories per minute—about twice as many as they did during long runs. Plus, with HIIT workouts, you benefit from the “after burn” effect, which a steady-state cardio just won’t give you. “So instead of burning 250 calories from your 30-minute session, you can burn up to 40 percent more throughout the next day or so as your body recovers,” says Donavanik. Follow the study’s lead: Perform all-out effort for 20 seconds, rest for 10 seconds, and repeat until you’ve hit four minutes. Rest one minute, then repeat to complete a total of four rounds.

Prioritize Clean Eating
Eating junk can make your workouts feel more difficult, so even if you think you’re pushing yourself to the max, you’re not, he says. And sub-max workouts, as you might have guessed, burn fewer calories. He recommends limiting added sugar and focusing on eating lean protein, healthy fats, and whole carbs from fruits, veggies, and whole grains.

Don’t Forget to Fuel
While everyone thrives on a slightly different pre-and post-workout nutrition plan, research published in Sports Medicine shows that eating carbs before you hit the gym improves your performance during HIIT and endurance workouts alike. And tougher workouts burn more calories—both during and after your workout, Donavanik says.

That explains why recent research published in the International Journal of Sport Nutrition and Exercise Metabolism found that downing coffee (or any caffeine) an hour before your workout can boost your post-workout caloric burn by 15 percent. After your workout, Donavanik recommends eating a meal that’s about 40 percent carbs, 40 percent protein, and 20 percent fat. The combination will help your muscles recover, get your energy levels up, and have you burning more calories as your body repairs…and, yes, adapts.

The Clock On The Kitchen Wall

By Mark Hopper

We have clocks all over our house.  There are clocks in the bedrooms and in the living room.  There are also digital displays that show the time on our cable box and kitchen applicances.  Everyone who has a smart phone not only has a clock but also a calendar!

In our house, there is a clock on the kitchen wall.  It is simple and helpful.  It is round with a white trim and black numbers.  It even has a “second hand” if you remember what that is.

I can’t tell you haw many times a day I look at that kitchen clock.  When I am walking in from the garage, I usually look at the clock.  When I am eating my lunch or grabbing a snack, I look at that clock.  When I am rushing out the door to a meeting or appointment, I glance at that clock to see how late I am.

I love that clock.  I know it is old fashion and that there are many other places in our house where I can find out what time it is, but I find myself frequently looking across the room at that old, plastic clock in the kitchen.

Recently the unthinkable happened.  The clock in the kitchen stopped working.  The hands on the clock were not moving.  The “second hand” was not moving.  It was like time stood still.

The obvious solution was to replace the AA battery.  I used several old batteries that I found in a kitchen drawer, but they did not help.  I assumed that they were too old and probably had no battery life in them.

So, I went to the store and bought a new pack of AA batteries.  I knew this would fix the problem.  When I put in a fresh AA battery I was surprised to see that it was still not working.  Bummer!  Could it be that the new batteries that I just bought were not good?  I realized that was unlikely.  The logical conclusion was that our faithful kitchen clock was dead.

Our faithful friend was gone.  Every time I looked at the kitchen wall, I was reminded that the clock was gone.  I laughed at myself for how many times a day I looked in that direction wondering what time it was.  I didn’t think to look at the kitchen appliances.  I just kept glancing over looking for that old clock.

Today, we purchased a new clock for our kitchen.  The blank space on the wall is filled with a new clock.  It looks just like the old one and it cost less than five dollars (battery non included)!

Now I can look over my shoulder and find out what time it is.  There is something comforting having a clock on the wall.  I don’t need to buy a watch.  I don’t need to look at my smart phone.  My faithful friend on the wall always has the correct time.  And, if the power goes out at our house, that kitchen clock will keep on ticking.

March is daylight savings month. It is time to “spring ahead” one hour. This would be a perfect time to buy a clock for your kitchen, too.

Efree Church of Diamond Bar 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd (909) 594-7604 Christmas Eve services: 4:30 & 6:00 PM Christmas Sunday services: 9:30 & 11:00 AM 

Intergenerational Art Show “AMERICA”

Walnut – The City of Walnut’s Community Services Department in collaboration with Mount San Antonio College will host the 13th Annual Intergenerational Art Show, “America.” This group exhibition will feature mixed medium pieces from throughout the community. The show will run from April 24 through April 28, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm, at the Walnut Senior Center, 21215 La Puente Road.

We invite you to join us on Saturday, April 22, from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm, for our Artist Reception and Live Auction. Meet the artists, take home a beautiful work of art and enjoy appetizers and refreshments, all compliments of Brookdale of Walnut Senior Living.

The show is open to all ages. For submissions or more information please contact the Walnut Senior Center at 909-598-6200. You may also email Gabriela Encinas at gencinas@cityofwalnut.org.

 

Inland Christian Home: Quality Environment For Seniors

Ontario- Inland Christian Home, was founded by a number of local churches and began providing services in 1978. The primary mission of the community is a reflection of the heritage of its founders: to provide quality affordable individualized care to seniors in a Christian environment, it’s a place you can feel right at home. The community’s non-profit status promotes this mission as there are no owners who profit from its operation and all the revenues received are reinvested into the operations of the facility.

As the baby boomer generation continues to age, it is important to know they have options. The aging process is not always an easy one and, at times requires the assistance of others. Inland Christian Home offers a community that assists in many ways. Its primary mission is to provide quality, affordable, individualized care to seniors in a Christian environment, making it a place you can feel right at home.

Inland Christian Home, being licensed as a Continuing Care Retirement Community (CCRC) through the Department of Social Services, provides many different levels of care which include Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Adult day care, Skilled Nursing and Rehab and Custodial Home care Services. The availability of different levels of care and service arrangements on the same grounds, offers seniors very unique advantages. Our philosophy is to encourage our residents to live as independently as possible at the lowest level of care. Our residents’ individual needs and desires are always considered in the arrangement of these services. We want Inland to be their home, not the facility in which they live, where all are treated as individuals and they participate and are given choices in how they live.

The availability of different levels of care and service arrangements on the same grounds offers residents some very unique advantages. Residents can continue to reside at the community even though their abilities may change. Resident and their families have the comfort in knowing that their needs will be met. Inland Christian Home is a close-knit community that promotes the maintaining of social relationship residents have with other residents, friends, and family.

Inland Christian Home also provides services to those who prefer to stay in their own homes. Custodial Home Care services make it possible by providing assistance with housekeeping, cooking, shopping, meal preparation, bathing, and dressing through educated caregivers.

Inland Christian Home is here to promote aging in place, and gives seniors the ability to live at the lowest level of care even though their abilities change and their families have the comfort in knowing their needs will be met; making it a place you can feel right at home.

Chino Hills Standouts Home Burglarized

Photo by: SI.com
Lavar Ball speaks to his son, LaMelo Ball, at UCLA game.

Staff Reports

Chino Hills– Chino Hills Sheriffs Department is looking for two males “wearing dark clothes” after a possible burglary was reported at the home of three basketball standouts while they played in a nationally televised game.

The Sheriff’s Department received a “possible burglary” call last week and were called out to the 16000 block of Aquamarine Court after a neighbor reportedly heard glass breaking next door.

A search of the area on foot and via helicopter was inconclusive as the two suspects were not found.

The home is owned by Lavar Ball, father of three standout basketball players who have made national headlines. UCLA forward Lonzo ball and brothers LiAngelo Ball and LaMelo Ball who both attend Chino Hills High. The two brothers were playing in a nationally televised playoff game.

LaMelo Ball recently gathered national attention after scoring an astounding 92 points after dedicating his play to fellow classmate Lexi Anderson, who just underwent a successful heart transplant last week.

The burglary occurred while the family was attending LiAngelo and LaMelo’s televised high school playoff game. Since no suspects were caught, its not known whether the burglars knew the family would be in Lawndale for the game.

Police found a pile of the homeowners possessions stacked up in the home, indicating a burglary was most likely interrupted.

LiAngelo Ball was quoted as saying the door was messed up and things were outside the closet, local reports said.

Anyone with information about this burglary can contact the Chino Hills Police Station’s detective bureau at (909) 364-2000.

Gas Prices Are Dropping In Diamond Bar

By Marissa Mitchell

Diamond Bar – Gas prices have dropped for the 11th consecutive day in the San Gabriel Valley, according to AAA.

On Wednesday, Los Angeles County gas prices dropped another half-cent to $3.036. This is following a nine-day consistent decrease in prices, adding to 2.7 cents.

While the average price per gallon is 2.4 cents less than a week ago, it is in fact 4.9 cents more than just one month ago, and a whopping 24.7 cents higher than a year ago, quotes AAA and Oil Information Service.

In Orange County, the cost of a gallon of self-serve regular gasoline decreased for the 11th consecutive day Wednesday. This decreases regular gasoline another half-cent, to $3.019.

Orange County reflects a similar gas price pattern to that of Diamond Bar. Gas prices in Orange have dropped 3.8 cents over the last 11 days, which is 2.5 cents less than a week ago. Yet, still, the same gallon of gasoline is approximately 2.8 more than a month ago in Orange, and another 24.5 cents higher than one year ago.

So the new figures beg the question: are gas prices getting better, or are they getting worse?

WVUSD Trustees Celebrate Outstanding Students, Parent Volunteers

PHOTO BY WVUSD
Partner in Education Awardees Sonal Choksey, Lily Eibert, and Caryn Mason with family members, Board President Tony Torng and Suzanne Middle School Principal Les Ojeda.

By WVUSD

Walnut —Each month, Walnut Valley USD Board of Trustees celebrate hard-working students and dedicated community members.

During the March 15 meeting, South Pointe and Suzanne Middle School leaders took to the podium to introduce their hand-picked honorees.

South Pointe parent Annalisa Gore was lauded with the Partner in Education Award. She has served as community club president for the past two years.

Annalisa is a collaborative leader who leads by example and has a magical way of making all parents feel like they belong.

Additionally, she puts “Kids First” by raising important funds to support learning, character development, and extra-curricular activities on campus.

“Annalisa is willing to roll up her sleeves and help in any way she can, including selling bobas!” said Principal Susan Arzola.

PHOTO BY: WVUSD
(Above and below) WVUSD Board President Tony Torng presents Super Star Student Award to South Pointe 8th grader Ivan Vazquez on March 15.

South Pointe 8th grader Ivan Vazquez received the Super Star Student Award. Although he has faced many challenges in his short life, it has not limited Ivan from achieving success.

The young man is a positive role model who puts a smile on his face for anyone who crosses his path.

If Ivan sees a classmate that is having a hard day, he lifts them up. If he sees an adult that needs a helping hand, he’s there to offer it.

“Ivan is always positive, pleasant, compassionate, helpful, considerate, and greets you with a smile,” Arzola said.

“We are very proud of Ivan and all of his accomplishments and all the contributions he makes to the school!”

The Roboheroes robotics team from Suzanne Middle School received the Super Star Student Award.

Team members are Matthew Carreon, Nathan Fong, Collin Lee, Spencer Lee, Codey Ma, Marcus Robles, Roman Robles, Ethan Tungpalan, Sarah Wang, and Ronnie Zhang.

PHOTO BY: WVUSD
South Pointe Middle School parent volunteer Annalisa Gore is honored with Partner in Education Award on March 15. Shown with Principal Susan Arzola and Board President Tony Torng.

The Roboheros won 1st place Robot Game at the Legoland FLL Cup in February.

Team members spent countless hours building and programming a Lego robot, researching and finding a solution to help animals, taking part in community outreach events.

“These students have gone above and beyond to represent our school in a positive way,” said Principal Les Ojeda.

The team is coached by advisor Vicky Silcock, and parent volunteers Jonathan Fong and Daffodil Robles.

The Roboheroes recently won the Core Values Inspiration Award at the Los Angeles Regional Championship and has been invited to represent the region at an international championship tournament sponsored by NASA in West Virginia this summer.

A trio of Suzanne dedicated parent volunteers Sonal Choksey, Lily Eibert, and Caryn Mason received the school’s Partner in Education Award.

“These wonderful ladies put in endless hours of service for our school,” Ojeda said.

This year, the community club board members planned and organized numerous school events including a successful booster drive that raised over $65,000 to provide technology, teacher intervention, curriculum books, and other valuable student resources.

“You have led with passion and enthusiasm, and as a result, you have made Suzanne a better place for our students!”

PHOTO BY: WVUSD
Board President Tony Torng presents Partner in Education Award to Suzanne Middle School parents Sonal Choksey, Lily Eibert, and Caryn Mason.291329

Eastvale City Council Recap

By Tiana Goegebuer

Eastvale – The February 22nd City Council Meeting was attended by Council Members Rigby, Rush, and Plott, as well as Mayor Pro Tem Lorimore and Mayor Tessari. The invocation was led by Pastor Ed Moreno from New Day Christian Church, and the Pledge of Allegiance was led by Mayor Pro Tem Lorimore. After a moment of silence to honor the fallen Police Officer from the City of Whittier, the Council moved into a Closed Session.

In the Presentations/Announcements portion of the meeting, Mayor Tessari invited Captain Rossi from Fire Station 31 to accept the Safely Surrender Baby Month proclamation. The Council then moved Item 10 on the Agenda, the City Manager’s Report, to this portion of the meeting.

Next, the meeting progressed to the Public Comments section, a resident stated his concerns about birthing homes in Eastvale, to which the Council responded by saying that since the issue is currently part of an ongoing investigation, not much information could be given without harming the pursuit.

The Consent Calendar was discussed next, and all Items were passed 5-0.

In the City Council Business section, Item 9.1 involved Richard Wall being sworn in to the Public Safety Commission. Item 9.2, an Investment Portfolio Update was approved 5-0. Item 9.3, Solar Powered Receptacles Project Overview and Approval of Memorandum of Understanding Senior Administrative Analyst Rodriguez was continued to a later meeting. Item 9.4, Pavement Management System Update was approved 5-0. Item 9.5, Draft Truck Route Study Update was approved 5-0. For Item 9.6 , the Appointment of Ad-Hoc Committee, the Council voted 5-0 to appoint an ad-hoc committee comprised of two planning and two public safety commissioners with alternates, plus two community members selected by City Staff.

The meeting adjourned with closing statements by the Council and City Staff. ■

Straight Talk With Danice

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 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 at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com

Chino Hills Family Begins Clothing Line

Photo by: Marissa Mitchell

By Marissa Mitchell

Chino Hills – This year, a whole new era of sports media and paraphernalia is emerging in the form of Big Baller Brand clothing and apparel line.

LaVar Ball, father of  basketball prodigies Lonzo Ball (now at UCLA), LiAngelo, and LaMelo Ball (both at Chino Hills High), has turned the sports branding world upside down through the creation of this “triple-B” brand. LaVar currently runs the business as a “family business”…but it won’t stay that way for long.

Most known for his bold statements in the media (such as his statement that his son could outplay Steph Curry, or that he himself could beat Michael Jordan one-on-one), LaVar is more “infamous” than famous at this point in time. Nonetheless, the superb athleticism of his sons is undisputed, especially with his son Lonzo leading the UCLA team, so far victoriously, through the NCAA championship.

Unlike LeBron James, who signed a $90 million dollar deal before the 2003 NBA draft, Lonzo Ball will own a portion of his own brand. “[James doesn’t] have a brand—that’s a brand that Nike created,” LaVar stated. “Try to go somewhere with that King sign and take it from Nike. You can’t do that. These triple B’s? They’re mine.”

And this is true. Not only that, but Big Baller Brand has broken new ground, perhaps unwittingly, for student-athletes. Because UCLA conceded to LaVar, noting that while he used UCLA colors, it was a “family” operation, the NCAA has broken its strong hold on college athletes. The brand has begun in the same place LaVar trained his three fantastically talented sons: in his home. But sales have been increasing so rapidly, it’s been difficult to keep up with demand.

Such success does seem to pose a visible threat to big-name labels. In a recent interview, LaVar averred, “[Some labels are like] Blockbusters, and the Big Baller Brand is Netflix. And you know what happened to Blockbuster? If you don’t change, guess what’s going to happen. There’s a red box everywhere.”

There is no doubt we are seeing more “BBB” items out and about. Perhaps “big name labels” really do have something to worry about.

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 3.25.17

Weekly News 3.25.17 Front pageThe 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: Weekly 3.25.17 Full PDF

Believe You Can and You Will

By Nancy Stoops

Just for a moment, think about your mindset regarding yourself.  What is your internal dialogue?  Do you tend to tell yourself you can, and so you do, or do you tell yourself you can’t so you don’t?  Also what is that mindset based on, and is it really your truth?  If you believe you can’t, think about all that you have already done successfully and learn to challenge that lies that hold you hostage.  I bet you are much more capable then your mind tells you.  Take out a piece of paper and fold it in half. Write down all of the lies that hold you hostage.  Now, on the other side, right down your truths based what you have already done successfully.  Next, make as many copies of this paper as you can, and take it with you everywhere. If you are able to, place them all over your house.  Next time you believe you can’t, the truth that you yourself have written down will remind you that you are already have been successful.  Pretty soon, you will be storing the truth in your mind.

Learn to challenge the incorrect belief system that has always held you back from being who you are intended to be.  The truth literally does set us free.  I was raised to believe I could fly.  This mindset has honored me with a life of blessings and success.  Learn to believe in yourself and in your capabilities. The truth is if you believe you can do something and work hard to accomplish it, anything is possible.  Believe you can and you will.  Our mindset literally is a road map for our lives.  Our mindset acts as a designer for our entire lives.  I hope you will take the time to change your mindset and take the opportunity to grow into the best version of you.

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

Straight Talk With Danice

Dear Readers:

When you hear the word, “hormone,” what comes to mind?  Do you have thoughts of a boy or girl going through puberty, or a woman going through menopause?  Do you think of your grouchy girlfriend who has PMS or an older man who has lost his spark?   Hormones play a big role in a man’s life, too.  As men age, they experience andropause, which is the male equivalent to menopause in women.

Whether you are male or female, young or old, if you are suffering from symptoms of hormonal imbalance, visit your doctor and have your hormone levels checked.  Bringing your system into balance can have a positive effect on your health.  Do a bit of research so you understand all the various options.   Bio identical hormone replacement is an interesting subject.  There is a vast array of information available on the Internet.

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 at straighttalk@candidcoachingservices.com. You can also visit her website at http://www.candidcoachingservices.com.

Former K-Mart Center Gets Renovated

IMG_6615

Photo by: Michael Armijo, Construction is under way for a new shopping center where K-Mart once stood. Ross and Sprouts Market are expected to open by Dec. 2017.

By Marissa Mitchell

Diamond Bar – Many citizens in the city of Diamond Bar are wondering just what is going on at Diamond Bar Boulevard (where the “old K-Mart” used to reside), and there is thankfully some new revealing information.

While the property is managed by private owners, construction is currently underway. According to Community Development Director Greg Gubman, there have been several approvals solidified thus far of new tenants in what will become the renovated building. Of those tenants,

Sprouts Market and Ross are confirmed, and will be completed and operational by the projected date of Dec. 2017.

Gubman also said that there have been a few approved establishments for the empty lot space just adjacent to Diamond Bar Boulevard: Chipotle and Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, the latter of which will have a drive through. These are also estimated to be completed by the end of the year, though that completion time may run into early next year.

There will be additional tenants occupying the renovated former K-Mart building, and the private owners of the property are still securing those tenants.

When asked how this will benefit the city, Director Gubman said, “These various retail uses will help diversify the revenues for the city of Diamond Bar.” This is not only needed in the community, it is greatly desired, as the current state does not provide benefit or aesthetic appeal.

One of the goals delineated by the City Council at the beginning of the year to promote long-term economic development was the following: “In cooperation with the property owners, redevelop the K-Mart site to include retail and restaurant options.”

The city is now fulfilling that objective, much to the relief of many Diamond Bar residents.

History 101

Photo courtesy of: Google images

Alcatraz Closes Its Doors

By History.com

On March 21, 1963 Alcatraz Prison in San Francisco Bay closes down and transfers its last prisoners. At it’s peak period of use in 1950s, “The Rock”, or “America’s Devil Island” housed over 200 inmates at the maximum-security facility. Alcatraz remains an icon of American prisons for its harsh conditions and record for being inescapable.

The twelve-acre rocky island, one and a half miles from San Francisco, featured the most advanced security of the time. Some of the first metal detectors were used at Alcatraz. Strict rules were enforced against the unfortunate inmates who had to do time at Alcatraz. Nearly complete silence was mandated at all times.

Alcatraz was first explored by Juan Manuel de Ayala in 1775, who called it Isla de los Alcatraces (Pelicans) because of all the birds that lived there. It was sold in 1849 to the U.S. government. The first lighthouse in California was on Alcatraz. It became a Civil War fort and then a military prison in 1907.

The end of its prison days did not end the Alcatraz saga. In March 1964, a group of Sioux claimed that the island belonged to them due to a 100-year-old treaty. Their claims were ignored until November 1969 when a group of eighty-nine Native Americans representing the American Indian Movement (AIM) occupied the island. They stayed there until 1971 when AIM was finally forced off the island by federal authorities.

The following year, Alcatraz was added to the Golden Gate National Recreation Area. It is now open for tourism.

CSU Trustees Vote to Increase Tuition by 5%

By Marissa Mitchell

In spite of widespread protests from students and elected officials alike, on Wednesday the California State University Board of Trustees voted to raise tuition by another 5%, beginning next school year, to address the shortfall of state funding.

The vote was a close one: 11-8. Among those opposing the passing of this new measure were Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom, Assembly Speaker Anthony Rendon, as well as the states schools superintendent Tom Torlakson, all of whom, it should be noted, formerly served on the board.

The Board of Trustees pass the following two amendments: 1) to rescind the hike in fees should enough state money be provided and 2) requiring reports over the next two years describing how the increased monies are spent.

Under this plan, the annual in-state tuition would increase from $5,472 to $5,742 – a total hike of $270. In addition, a similar increase is proposed for non-resident tuition, as well as increases in graduate, doctoral, and even teacher credential programs. This is estimated to generate $77.5 million in the 2017-18 school year.

Upon passage, CSU Chancellor Timothy White declared, “I don’t bring this forward with an ounce of joy. I bring it out of necessity.” The statement was accompanied with audience-wide booing.

Many students insist that they cannot afford their tuition fees as is, let alone a price increase, and many chanted, “The more we pay, the longer we stay.” Thus, students expressed it is only through working that they are able to obtain any money for schooling. Yet, to many board members, there seems to have been no other way of addressing deficits beyond their control.

Out-of-state UC students will pay the same increases in tuition and fees, along with another $1,332 jump in supplemental tuition, which will increase to $28,014. For non-resident students, the increase will be $1,668.

A Beautiful Drive

By Pastor Mark Hopper

The recent rains in Southern California have promoted a lot of interesting conversations.  People who enjoy winter sports have loved the record amount of snow fall.  Recently, I heard someone say that ski resorts may remain open until the 4th of July!

The rains have produced lush green hillsides in our communities.  Since we live in an arid environment, we expect to see hillsides that are brown and barren.  But not this year.  The hills are covered with lush, dark green grass and other vegetation.

One of the unexpected results of our recent rain are the beautiful wild flowers that are covering the desert landscape.  I have heard in the news that places Palm Spings and Borego Springs are covered with wild flowers.

Last week my son and I drove to Arizona during his spring break.  We wanted to see a Major League Baseball spring training game.  As we drove across the California and Arizona desert we were amazed to see beautiful wild flowers.

The highways were lined with bright yellow flowers and many hillsides were also covered, too.  The hillsides that faced South seemed to have an abundance of flowers of every color.

Who would expect to see this kind of beauty in the middle of the dessert?  How can you explain that a desert could produce this kind of abundant beauty?

A familiar phrase says, “April showers bring May flowers.”  But this year I think we could say that “Winter showers bring indescribable color to unexpected places.”  Not only are the hills alive with color, but so is the barren desert too!

Let me encourage you to take a ride and see this remarkable beauty before it is too late.  Why not visit a desert near you this week and see the beauty that is the product of our abundant rainfall this year.

You will be glad you did!

Efree Church of Diamond Bar, 3255 South Diamond Bar Blvd. (909) 594-7604. Sunday Services: 9:00 & 10:45 AM. Efreedb.org 

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 3.18.17

Weekly News 3.18.17 Front PageThe 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: OurWeeklyNews Full PDF 3.18.17

$30,000 Reward Offered For Diamond Bar Couples Murders

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Photo by: CBS

By Michael Armijo

Diamond Bar – Supervisor Janice Hahn announced last Wednesday a reward of $20,000 for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the person(s) responsible for a Diamond Bar couple’s murder. In addition, the City of Diamond Bar approved an additional $10,000 reward, totaling $30,000 in reward money.

On October 20, 2016, a family friend visited the home of a senior couple, in the 3300 block of Bent Twig Lane, Diamond Bar, to check on them. The couples’ family, who were unable to reach them, asked the friend to check on the couple.
The husband and wife team, who operated a studio out of their home and taught art lessons were discovered deceased in their home.

Cheng Long Wang, 60, and Mei Chu Chung, 57, were pronounced dead at the scene from multiple stab wounds.
The $20,000 reward was approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors earlier this month, and the city of Diamond Bar approved a $10,000 reward thereafter.

According to a press release issued by the LA County Sheriff’s Department, both Cheng Long Wang, known as David, and Mei Chu Chung, known as Marian, emigrated from Taiwan in the year 2000.

“They were creative and well-respected within their community, and in an instant, the home which this gentle couple shared with others as a place to learn and be creative was turned into a crime scene where they were brutally attacked, stabbed to death and likely robbed,” the statement read.
At a press conference held at the Hall of Justice, the Homicide Bureau unit commander, Captain Steve Katz, introduced one of the couple’s children, Dr. Gary Wang.  Dr. Wang explained how difficult the loss of his parents has been –not just for him and his sister, but for his 4-year-old daughter.  He revealed how his little girl missed video chats with grandma and cried at night for her grandparents; and relayed how he had to put their death in terms she could understand by explaining that grandma and grandpa “went to heaven.”
Dr. Wang made an emotional plea to the public, asking them to provide any information which may help solve the murder of his parents, for their justice, the release said.
“This couple were married for 30 years and were the classic example of an American success story,” Sheriff McDonald said.  He recognized the retired couple for having raised a successful family, as evidenced by their children who both became doctors, and for having dedicated time to their community by offering art lessons in their home.
Supervisor Janice Hahn, 4th District, thanked Sheriff McDonnell, Captain Katz and the Homicide Bureau detectives for their hard work on this investigation.  In an effort to encourage witnesses to step forward, she announced a monetary reward approved by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors.  The reward of $20,000 was offered in exchange for information leading to the apprehension and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the couple’s murder.
Captain Katz presented a second monetary reward which was approved by the city of Diamond Bar for $10,000, offered in addition to the Board of Supervisors’ reward offer.
If you have any information about this case, please call the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department Homicide Bureau at 323-890-5500.