Category Archives: The Weekly News

Great Tips to Get in Shape and Stay in Shape

By StatePoint

Losing weight and living a healthier lifestyle top millions of people’s list of goals. Unfortunately, it’s a lot easier to set a goal than it is to actually achieve it, so it’s important to have a game plan if you want to see results. Here are some sustainable tips to help you lose weight and feel great! 

Set Goals Mindfully

Setting a goal to “lose weight” sounds great, but it is pretty vague. It’s hard to achieve a goal without a specific plan or focus. Remember to think about your health beyond just the number on the scale. Whether it’s deciding to train for a 5k race or choosing to reduce your sugar intake by half, getting specific and setting realistic goals helps you get a clear sense as to whether you were successful.

Get Hydrated

One simple way to cut back calories and sugar is to make water your drink of choice. Eliminate high-calorie beverages like juice and soda from your diet. Get started by setting a simple goal of drinking at least five 12-ounce glasses of water a day.

Sustainable Meal Planning

A sustainable diet is not about deprivation, it’s about eating nutritious, enjoyable meals. For example, a Mediterranean diet, which focuses on fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats and healthy fats like olive oil; often offers better nutrition, better flavors and better results than a fad diet.

In fact, people who followed a Mediterranean diet lost 52 percent more weight than those with a standard low-fat diet says a study published in a peer reviewed journal. Over a period of two years, the Mediterranean diet group lost 9.7 pounds while the low fat diet group only lost 6.3 pounds.

Make Exercise Fun

Exercise is critical for a healthy body and mind. Whether it’s taking the dog out for a daily walk, signing up for a dance class or committing to hitting the gym three to four times a week, find a workout routine you love and can commit to so you don’t think of movement and exercise as a chore.

Seek Support

Even a well-balanced diet combined with exercise can use extra support. One great program that works in conjunction with a Mediterranean diet is the M3 system by Modere, an innovative weight management system combining credible products with real food and flexible lifestyle behaviors to help users detox.

The plan includes a thermogenic fat-burning supplement taken in the morning, a protein-rich shake for lunch, and an evening fiber drink to help control dinner portions. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. According to Modere, this product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

“The lifestyle-based approach to dieting can mean better and more sustainable results than fads that require you to eat only from limited list of foods,” says Greg Horn, formulator of Modere M3.

The plan also requires you to make key changes that support health and weight management by letting you pick three of the five healthy lifestyle behavior options such as committing to walking 7,500 steps a day, cutting out fried foods and sugary drinks, or avoiding refined flour and white rice. To learn more about how M3 can help you, visit http://www.TakeM3.com.

Make now the time you set a goal and stick with it!

 

OurWeeklyNews.com Complete Edition 2.11.17

The Weekly News covers community news for Chino, Chino Hills, Diamond Bar, Walnut, Rowland Heights and surrounding areas2017-02-11-weeklynews of San Gabriel Valley and the Inland Empire. Click this link to access the complete issue in PDF format: 2017-02-11-weeklynews

Event Challenges Horse Trainers

By Ted Harbin bwmary-rose-full-pic-riding-paint

NORCO– For centuries, training horses has been a major part of ranch work worldwide. The key, all horsemen say, comes in the early stages of a colt’s development. Such is the foundation for Colt Starting Challenge USA, an association of two-day competitions that feature trainers utilizing Natural Horsemanship methods with young horses. The next event is scheduled for 6-9 p.m. Friday, Feb. 24th, and continues at 6–10 p.m. Saturday Feb. 25th, at the George Ingalls Covered Arena in Norco, CA.  Tickets are $15 per night.

Sundquist is a five-time Champion Trainer who has excelled at numerous challenges, most recently at the Rocky Mountain Horse Expo event in Denver, Colorado, where he walked away with the winning Champion Trainer Buckle. “In the first two days, the colt is able to learn new things really fast,” said Sundquist, 24, now in his sixth year of training professionally. That quick timeline becomes quite evident during the Colt Starting Challenge. Each trainer is matched with a horse via random draw; the colts have not been started and have never been saddled nor bridled. The trainers will work with the animals over the course of two two-hour sessions set up over two days, and judges will determine which of the trainers wins.

“We will have two hours of work the first day with a half-hour break in between,” said Russell Beatty, who founded the Colt Starting Challenge USA. “This is all done with an audience, and each contestant has a microphone so that when it’s their time to talk, they can say what they’re doing and why they’re doing it. “The second day has two 45-minute sessions with a break in between. After the second session, we tear down the round pens, set up our obstacle course and the contestants ride their horse through the obstacle course. The winner gets a buckle.” The contestants love the ideaFor more information see www.coltstartingchallengeusa.com

Did You Know?

Time- and Budget- Stretching Tips for the Self-Employed  

By StatePoint 

The ability to stretch a budget can help businesses or those who are self-employed weather lean times and flourish in good periods, and being efficient with time can mean surviving a busy season with your sanity intact. But these principles can be hard to uphold.

To help, here are a few tips to assist freelancers, entrepreneurs and small business owners to make more happen with existing resources.  

Seek Out Resources

Taking care of certain logistics is easier these days, as retailers like Staples offer resources for small businesses, such as their Small Business Hub, where you can design and order business cards, print marketing flyers and posters, get invitations, announcements, calendars and brochures, many on the same day that you place the order.

“When you are on a tight schedule, having one place where you can go that meets a bulk of your small business needs is extremely useful,” says Melanie Salinas a photographer and the blogger behind “Story of Five.”

Salinas, who recently partnered with Staples as part of their #MakeMoreHappen campaign to help small business owners learn about resources to help them get things done, is a frequent user of both Staples’ online hub, as well as their in-store Copy & Print center.

Keep Expenses Organized 

“Don’t mix business with pleasure. Easier said than done when you’re working from home, but it’s a must. Keep business expenses separate from family expenses,” says Salinas.

It may seem like an extra step now, but you can avoid accounting headaches and help make tax time a breeze by staying organized. Good organization will also help ensure you don’t overlook expenses that could lower your taxes.

Create a Workspace 

If you are looking to take your business to the next level, it’s important that you have a dedicated workspace where you can get stuff done. Look to programs like Staples Rewards to get cash back on purchases, special coupons and deals.

“Even if it’s just a corner of your bedroom, creating a functional workspace will help you boost productivity,” says Kayla Buell, who runs “Gen Y Girl,” a Millennial career and lifestyle blog, who recommends sprucing up the area with supplies and décor that inspire and motivate you.

Use Time Wisely 

Marketing yourself or promoting your business can be tough, especially if your days are full working for existing customers and keeping your business going.

“Promoting sounds like a lot of work when you’re bursting at the seams, but you have to communicate with people you want to hire you,” says Susan and William Brinson, who own a thriving photography business and blog at “House of Brinson.” “We use the weeks where we’re slow — around the holidays for instance — to work on promotions.”

More business ideas to save time and money can be found by visiting Staples.com and by following #MakeMoreHappen on social media.

Give yourself a cushion — both on your calendar and in your wallet. Smart approaches to running your business will boost your productivity and stretch your budget.

 

 

 

A Man With a Gun Ends in a High Speed Pursuit Through the Streets of SB

By SBSD

On February 5, 2017, at approximately 9:51 a.m., Deputies, from the Sheriff’s Central Station, in conjunction with assisting Highland deputies, responded to the 6900 block of Glasgow Avenue following the report of a man with a gun. Deputies arrived on scene and contacted the suspect Lee Waits sitting in the driver seat of a black Ford F-150 parked at the location. Deputies ordered Waits to turn the vehicle off; Waits refused and fled from deputies at a high rate of speed. The Ford F-150 was reported stolen out of the city of Colton. Deputies activated their overhead lights with sirens and pursued the suspect. Waits fled throughout the streets of San Bernardino and ultimately crashed the vehicle in the area of Baseline Street and Sierra Way. Waits exited the vehicle and fled from deputies on foot; he was apprehended after a brief foot pursuit. Waits was found to have a no-bail warrant for burglary and a second warrant for drug charges. Waits was arrested and booked into West Valley Detention Center for VC 2800.2 Felony Evading and PC 496D(A) Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is urged to contact Central Station at (909)387-3545. Callers wishing to remain anonymous are urged to call the We-Tip Hotline at 1-800-78-CRIME(27463), or you may leave information on the website at http://www.wetip.com

Field Licensing Enforcement will begin

By City of Walnut

Officers from the Department of Animal Care and Control (DACC) will be conducting field licensing enforcement in the City of Walnut beginning on Wednesday, February 22, 2017. Field enforcement efforts are designed to ensure those residents’ dogs and cats are in compliance with licensing requirements and the mandatory spay/neuter. California State law requires that all dogs over the age of four months be vaccinated against rabies and be licensed. In addition to dogs, the County of Los Angeles and the City of Walnut require that all cats over the age of four months be vaccinated against rabies and licensed. Beginning January 1, 2014, puppies may be vaccinated at three months old, but still are not required to be vaccinated until four months of age. Securing a dog or cat license is essential to assisting animal control agencies if a pet becomes lost.

The licensing fees for City residents are as follows:

  • Unaltered dog – $72.00
  • Altered dog – $27.00
  • Altered dog belonging to a senior citizen (60+) – $9.50
  • Altered dog belonging to a disabled military veteran – $7.50
  • Unaltered cat – $10
  • Altered cat – $5
  • Penalty fee – Equal to the license fee

Pet owners are advised to be in compliance with licensing and the mandatory spay/neuter and microchip ordinance. Residents not in compliance will be subject to license fees and delinquency charges, including a $40 field enforcement fee, to offset the cost of the Department’s field services. In order to avoid penalties, be sure to license your dog. You can secure a new dog license by printing the application online at http://www.animalcare.lacounty.gov, or visiting your local County animal care center. If your license is not delinquent, you can also renew it through the Internet. DACC offers low cost vaccination clinics and low cost assistance (for individuals who qualify) for spay and neuter surgeries. Please visit our website http://www.animalcare.lacounty.gov or stop by your local County animal care center for more information about these services.

DBHS to stage ‘Songs for a New World’

By WVUSD

DIAMOND BAR-The Diamond Bar High School Theatre Company continues its 2016-17 season with a production of Jason Robert Brown’s Songs for a New World. The show times are February 24, and 25 at 7p.m. and February 26 at 4 p.m. in the Diamond Bar High School theater. Tickets are $15 for students and $18 for adults, and are available at www.seatyourself.biz/dbhsdrama.The public is welcome.

The show is being produced, directed, and performed by DBHS Theatre Arts Academy students.  The program provides students who aspire to go into the arts, higher level one-on-one and small group instruction in theatre performance.  Students also complete yearly internships with theatre companies where they get hands-on experience in all aspects of production.

Songs for a New World is an abstract musical composed of various songs centering around the theme “the moment of decision.” As composer Jason Robert Brown says, “It’s about one moment. It’s about hitting the wall and having to make a choice, or take a stand, or turn around and go back.” The audience is taken from a Sixteenth century ship to the window ledge of a New York penthouse as they follow the lives of characters on the precipice of decision.

 

Diamond Bar High School is located at 21400 E. Pathfinder Road in Diamond Bar.

 

Recent Recalls

Staff Reports

  1. Fromi USA is recalling its 7 cases of Soureliette cheese and 2 cases of Tomme Brebis Fedou because they have the potential to be contaminated with Listeria monocytogenes, an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Although healthy individuals may suffer only short-term symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, stiffness, nausea, abdominal pain and diarrhea, listeria infection can cause miscarriages and stillbirths among pregnant women.
  1. S. Smokeless Tobacco Company (USSTC) is voluntarily recalling certain of its smokeless tobacco products, listed in the chart below, manufactured at USSTC’s facility in Franklin Park, IL. USSTC has notified the U.S. Food and Drug Administration of the recall and is working with federal authorities on this matter. USSTC initiated the recall after receiving eight consumer complaints of foreign metal objects, including sharp metal objects, found in select cans.
  1. Thorley Industries LLC d/b/a 4moms (4moms) is recalling certain 4moms Self Installing Rear-facing Infant Car Seats, model number 1032, manufactured July 1, 2016, to October 31, 2016. Due to a tight rivet, the affected car seats have a coupling hook that may not properly engage around the coupling pin, preventing the infant carrier portion from securely attaching to the seat base.
  1. Baby Trend, Inc. (Baby Trend) is recalling certain Hybrid LX 3-in-1 Centennial booster seats, model number FB58181, manufactured on July 23, 2016, and Hybrid LX 3-in-1 Kiwi booster seats, model number FB48417, manufactured on July 14, 2016. The affected child seats have a center adjuster rivet that may pull through or break if the harness is being used with a child weighing more than 40 lbs. As such, these child seats fail to comply with the requirements of Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard (FMVSS) number 213, “Child Restraint Systems.”
  1. Continental Tire the Americas, LLC (Continental) is recalling certain General Tire Grabber light truck tires, size 33×12.50R18 LT 118Q, Load Range E, manufactured May 3, 2015, to May 16, 2015 (DOT week codes 1815 and 1915). These replacement tires may have a lack of adhesion within the belt package, causing tread wear, tread bulging, and possible tread separation.

CPUC Scoping Meeting: SCE’s Riverside Transmission Reliability Project

By City of Eastvale 

On April 15, 2015, Southern California Edison (SCE) filed an application (A.15-04-013) with the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC) for a Certificate of Public Convenience and Necessity (CPCN) to construct and operate the 230-kV transmission line and 230-kV substation components of the Riverside Transmission Reliability Project (RTRP).

This project will not directly impact Eastvale but the proposed lines will be an aesthetic visible to our city.

The CPUC will conduct a public Scoping Meeting on Wednesday, February 8, 2017, at Jurupa Valley High School –Auditorium (10551 Bellegrave Avenue, Jurupa Valley, CA 91752).  The purpose of the scoping meeting is to present information about the revised project and the CPUC’s decision-making processes, and to listen to the views of the public on the range of issues to be considered in the scope and content of the Subsequent EIR. A court reporter will be present to record all verbal comments made at the scoping meeting.

Meeting Schedule:
Open House: 6:00 p.m.
Brief Presentation: 6:30 p.m.
Verbal Comments: 7:00 – 8:00 p.m.

All written comments for the CPUC’s CEQA scoping period must be received by February 24, 2017. 

Comments can be submitted in several ways:

  1. U.S. mail to:  Jensen Uchida (CPUC Project Manager)
    California Public Utilities Commission
    c/o Panorama Environmental, Inc.
    One Embarcadero Center, Suite 740
    San Francisco, CA 94111
  2. E-mail –riversidetrp@panoramaenv.com
  3. Fax – (650) 373-1211
  4. Attending a Public Scoping Meeting and making a verbal statement or submitting a written comment at the scoping meeting. Individual respondents may request confidentiality. If you wish to withhold your name or street address from public review, you must state this prominently at the beginning of your written comment. Such requests will be honored to the extent allowed by law. The CPUC will not consider anonymous comments. All submissions from organizations and businesses, and from individuals identifying themselves as representatives or officials of organizations or businesses, will be available for public inspection in their entirety.

Jammy Fig and Brie Grilled Cheese

with Arugula Mushroom Salad  bw-fig-and-brie-grilled-cheese-31750705

By Hello Fresh 

A classic grilled cheese hits the spot for breakfast or lunch. But if you’re going to do it for dinner, you gotta spiff it up. Our version is just fancy enough with brie and sweet fig jam, though all that melty cheese will still take you to a comfy, cozy place. We’re adding on an arugula mushroom salad not just because it’s delish, but also to help keep things classy.

 

Cooking Time: 25 min.

Servings: 2

Nutrition: Energy (kJ)2163 kJ, Calories517 kcal, Fat30 g, Saturated Fat15 g, Carbohydrate48 g, Sugar10 g, Dietary Fiber6 g, Protein21 g, Cholesterol76 mg, Sodium753 mg

 

Ingredients:

  • Argula- 4 ounce
  • Button Mushrooms- 4 ounce
  • Fig Jam- 1 ounce
  • Whole Wheat Bread- 4 slice
  • Pepper- unit
  • Olive Oil- 2 teaspoon

Preparation:

  1. Wash and dry all produce. Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Strip rosemary leaves from stems. Discard stems. Finely chop leaves. Thinly slice mushrooms.
  2. Toss mushrooms with a drizzle of olive oil, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in oven until browned and lightly crisped, 12-15 minutes.
  3. Meanwhile, cut brie cheese into thin slices. Spread fig jam on one side of two of the bread slices. Top jammy sides with brie slices. Place remaining slices of bread on top of each to create two sandwiches.
  4. Melt 1 TBSP butter in a large pan over medium-low heat. Add sandwiches and cook until nicely browned on outside and melty inside, 4-5 minutes per side.
  5. While sandwiches cook, toss mushrooms with arugula, a large drizzle of balsamic vinegar (we sent more), and a drizzle of olive oil in a large bowl. Season with salt and pepper.
  6. Slice sandwiches in half and serve with salad.

 

Happiness

By Nancy Stoops

Licensed Marriage Family Therapist

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

Most people believe that there is a road to happiness.  Most people believe that certain things need to occur to be happy.  Most people spend their whole life on a quest for happiness but never get there.  I believe happiness is a choice.  I believe happiness is a mindset.  I believe it’s about looking at all that is right with your life and being grateful.  If you spend your days always thinking about what your life isn’t or what you don’t have you won’t be very happy.  Now I’m not implying that people shouldn’t dream big and make those dreams come true.  I’m just saying be happy along the way to making those dreams come true.

Happiness occurs every day I have the honor of being alive.  Yes I had a brother that was murdered, a brother that committed suicide and a father that died from Pancreatic Cancer but I am still here for a reason.  I appreciate each and every day I am here and can make a difference.  I appreciate having a healthy body and the ability to work out every day with my amazing dog Midnight.  I appreciate the sunrise and all the beauty that nature has to offer.  I am happiest doing the simple things even though I have travelled the world. Saturdays with my grandson are about horseback riding and swimming and just laughing.  Saturdays make me very happy.  Watching my dog do his happy roll on the grass makes me filled with joy as I see him filled with joy.

 

I tell myself every day I refuse to let anybody steal my joy.  People might do and say things that could potential steel my happiness but I decide how I want to respond to their words and behaviors.  We are in control of us and how we respond to others.  I wish happiness and joy for all of you every day!!!!!!  

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 nancystoops@verizon.net. 

 

Kindness Matters

By WVUSD bwkindness-matters-schools 

WALNUT— Millions of students across the country focused on spreading happiness during the Great Kindness Challenge.  Every elementary and middle school campus in Walnut Valley USD joined the national event held the week of January 23-27.

Students received a list of 25 acts of kindness they could accomplish during the course of the week. The challenges were as simple as smiling at people, lending a pencil to a friend, or even holding the door open.

South Pointe Middle School hosted a Nothing Beats Kindness Day on January 25 with a fast-paced marshmallow relay race held at lunchtime.  Six volunteers from each class carefully passed the tiny treats to each other holding plastic spoons in their mouths.

“We’re doing this kindness activity to get to know each other better!” shared 7th grader Jasmine Montoya while cheering for her friends. The winning homeroom also earned Panther Points toward a year-end pizza party. Students also wrote notes of appreciation to community members, including the fire and sheriff’s departments, and donated food and supplies to a local animal shelter.

“Thank you for your hard work!” penned Jared Wong to the Walnut-Diamond Bar Sherriff’s Department.

“Thank you so much for protecting us,” added Natasha Chang.

Vejar Elementary hosted a Peace and Kindness Week with students creating Kindness Matters signs and completing kind acts including recycling, a happy dance, high fives, and sitting with someone new at lunch.  

Westhoff Elementary students saluted soldiers with heart-shaped kindness grams that were delivered to the four branches of the armed forces. Evergreen Elementary kindergartners made cards, and donated food and toys to children battling illnesses at City of Hope through the Friend in Need program. The giving group in teacher Mona Warren’s class also led a campaign to collect socks and blankets for the Santa Ana Riverbed Tent City people. “Helping others and growing hearts at the same time is a win-win for all involved,” said Principal Carolyn Wills. Suzanne Middle School held its annual 6th grade Friendship Summit on January 26 with activities centered on making friends, building relationships, and finding commonalities with other classmates. Walnut Elementary hosted a Mix It Up Lunch on January 25 to encourage students step out of their social bubbles and learn about other classmates.  Students were seated at lunch tables according to their birth month.“They learn they have the same birthday month, and that’s common ground for a lot of friendships,” said counselor Cris Smith. First graders Gavin and Jacqueline found out they shared the same birthday – March 23. At the November table, youngsters talked about their favorite movies and television shows, and what they like to do for fun – sleeping and swimming were the most popular responses!

City Council Recap

By Natalie Kim  

Diamond Bar – The February 7 Diamond Bar City Council meeting began following a closed study session. During the study session, the Council continued to discuss standards concerning communication and marketing designs, and selected a City logo. The Council also discussed the statewide election update SB 415, which requires cities to move all elections to even numbered year cycles. The Council then presented a City Tile to former state senator Bob Huff, thanking him for his many years of service, fighting for City issues on a statewide level.

During the public comments, ambassadors from new state assembly member Phillip Chen and state senator Josh Newman introduced themselves to the City and the Council. The Breakfast Lion’s Club also announced a multicultural drum concert, and a representative from the Diamond Bar public Library announced upcoming events.

The schedule of future events was read, which included the traffic and transportation commission meeting on February 9; a planning commission meeting on February 14; Presidents’ Day, during which City offices will be closed, on February 20; and the next City Council meeting on February 21.

The Council then approved all items on the consent calendar, including the minutes from the City Council meeting of January 17; minutes from the traffic and transportation commission meeting of November 10; minutes from the planning commission meeting of November 8; ratification of a check register totalling $2,162,999.23; the Treasurer’s Statement for the month of December, 2016; the General Plan status report for 2016; approval of an amendment to the professional services agreement with Go Live Technology, Inc.; approval of notice of completion for the traffic signal infrastructure upgrades phase I project; approval of notice of completion for the construction of Washington St. cul-de-sac at LIncoln Ave. project; authorization for the City manager to enter into a memorandum of understanding with the City of Industry establishing a reimbursement agreement for consultant costs related to the preparation of the Federal Fastlane Grant application; rejection of all bids for the Longview South Park Improvements Project; approval of an amendment to the memorandum of understanding between the City of Diamond Bar and the Los Angeles County Metropolitan Transportation Authority for State Route 60/Lemon AVe. partial interchange; and a resolution confirming existence of a local emergency, and concurrently, prove designation of applicant’s agent resolution for non-state agencies.

Following individual reports and comments, the Council adjourned to February 21 at 6:30 p.m. at 21865 Copley Dr.

Comeback or Collapse?

By Mark Hopper

I realize that some people did not watch the Super Bowl football game recently.  Some prefer basketball or soccer or some other sport.  But according to the TV ratings, millions of people did watch the Super Bowl again this year. If you missed it, you may have heard that the game this year was one of the best.  It was the first time in the history of the Super Bowl that the game was tied at the end of regulation. The game went into overtime for the first time ever.  This was one of the most dramatic and exciting Super Bowl games in its fifty-one year history.

In addition, this year’s Super Bowl included the greatest comeback in history.  The Atlanta Falcons led the game by over 20 points in the third quarter.  But, the New England Patriots came back and tied the game with only seconds left on the clock in regulation. And, the Patriots used a rare two-point play after their final touch down to tie the game and force overtime.  It doesn’t get much better than this if you are a football fan. I have heard a lot of sports fans talking about the remarkable comeback by New England.  Few people thought that the Patriots could pull this off.  Every pass completion was critical.  Every penalty seemed to go their way.  It was amazing to watch.  However, I have also heard other fans say it was the biggest collapse in Super Bowl history.  How could Atlanta let the game slip away?  They had a commanding lead in the third quarter.  Most people thought the Falcons had the game wrapped up. I wonder how the players and coaches feel?  The players on the winning team must be so excited.  The players on the losing team must be so disappointed. I suppose that life is a lot like the Super Bowl.  There are times that we a excited and delighted over a personal success or accomplishment.  And, they are times when we feel discouraged and disappointed over a missed opportunity.

My suggestion is to focus on the positive.  Don’t dwell on your defeats.  Remember your successes.  Atlanta fans certainly have a reason to be disappointed.  They almost won the game.  They were so close. But, they had a remarkable season and won more games than most people expected.  Their quarterback had the best season of his career.  Football fans were surprised that the Falcons made it to the Super Bowl and almost won it!

I hope you can learn to be thankful for the positive things in your life.  Focus on your family and your friends –  your health and your faith.  Every day is a gift from God. We know there will be difficulties and disappointments in life.  Lost jobs and poor health.  But, face those times with hope and faith.  You will be glad you did and others around you will too.

 

Stroke of Luck

Chaparral grandfather painting murals, portraits around campus
bwstroke-of-luck-schools

 By WVUSD 

DIAMOND BAR-School volunteers enrich the lives of Walnut Valley students in countless ways – by giving of their time in classrooms, organizing fundraisers and events, and through financial contributions that provide enrichment opportunities on every campus.

Cornelis Greive, an 84-year-old grandfather, is leaving a lasting legacy through the gift of his artwork.

Every Tuesday and Thursday, the talented painter arrives at Chaparral Middle School with his tools of the trade: sable brushes and tubes of acrylic paint.

Greive is transforming the school by creating a gallery of cougar murals, national and state awards logos, and portraits of inspirational authors, presidents, scientists, scholars, and more.

Since August, the amiable octogenarian has logged more than 1,000 hours around the Diamond Bar campus, according to Principal Ron Thibodeaux.

“Cor has added a lot of color and really brightened up our campus. He’s a gem!”

Greive has produced about 20 stellar portraits including Leonardo De Vinci, Martin Luther King, Jr., Abraham Lincoln, Jane Austen, Albert Einstein, and Amelia Earhart.

His canvas is typically indoor hallway walls, but also extends to ball walls and school signage.

Chaparral teachers choose the artwork to be featured outside their classroom.

“Whatever they pick, I’ll paint it!” he said.

With a digital printout in hand, he sets out to replicate the masterpiece, using grids to transfer images onto the walls.

The magic happens when Greive mixes up the colors on his artist palette and gently grips a wood-handled brush.

He works quickly, beginning with the eyes, and often completes an entire portrait in one session – just two hours.

“It excites me because I see it come to life!” the Holland-born native admits.

He is a welcome presence on campus, receiving warm greetings by students and staff members.

“I like your artwork!” chimes one boy passing by the artist on his way to class.

Greive quickly offers warm smile and humbly replies, “Thank you!”

The resident artist recently completed the portrait of Anne Frank inside the classroom of humanities teacher Sherry Robertson, who describes him a “priceless member of the Cougar family.”

“It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for my students to witness a stunning piece of artwork blossom from a blank canvas. His quiet, lovable demeanor captivated all our hearts,” Robertson said.

The black and white painting in her class bears a quote penned by the young girl who went into hiding during the Holocaust: “I can shake off anything as I write; my sorrows disappear, my courage is reborn.”

“It’s a gift to be able to paint. Anne Frank’s gift was her writing,” Greive reflected. “It helped her get through those dark days.”

Robertson described her students as being “in awe as they watched every brush stroke.”

Sixth grader Elim Jiang said it was “amazing” to observe the sketching and painting process.

“I had a hard time focusing on my work because I was mesmerized by the art!” commented Edward Delano.

Greive said his goal is for the artwork to help make students, staff, and parents proud of the campus.

“I’m happy they appreciate it!”

To date, his favorite paintings at Chaparral are Abraham Lincoln and Harry Truman.

“They have a lot in common. Both were denied higher education, but they stayed grounded. They never had any money, but were always giving to others.” Greive says he is looking forward to decorating the school’s new music building with portraits of composers. During the previous two years, Greive painted several murals at Maple Hill Elementary when his grandchildren, Grace and Louis Ramirez, attended the school. Grace, who is probably his biggest fans, now attends Chaparral. “I am very proud of my Opa!” the 6th grader beamed. “His art makes our school prettier!” Greive has pledged to continue painting at Chaparral for two more years, and then plans to “graduate” to Diamond Bar High. “I enjoy it here at school – I’m painting the walls and they let me get away with it!”

 

History 101

Did You Know?Approximately 150 million Valentine’s Day cards are exchanged annually, making Valentine’s Day the second most popular card-sending holiday after Christmas.  

HISTORY OF VALENTINE’S DAY

Every February 14, across the United States and in other places around the world, candy, flowers and gifts are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of St. Valentine. But who is this mysterious saint, and where did these traditions come from? Find out about the history of this centuries-old holiday, from ancient Roman rituals to the customs of Victorian England.

THE LEGEND OF ST. VALENTINE

The history of Valentine’s Day–and the story of its patron saint–is shrouded in mystery. We do know that February has long been celebrated as a month of romance, and that St. Valentine’s Day, as we know it today, contains vestiges of both Christian and ancient Roman tradition. But who was Saint Valentine, and how did he become associated with this ancient rite?

The Catholic Church recognizes at least three different saints named Valentine or Valentinus, all of whom were martyred. One legend contends that Valentine was a priest who served during the third century in Rome. When Emperor Claudius II decided that single men made better soldiers than those with wives and families, he outlawed marriage for young men. Valentine, realizing the injustice of the decree, defied Claudius and continued to perform marriages for young lovers in secret. When Valentine’s actions were discovered, Claudius ordered that he be put to death.

Other stories suggest that Valentine may have been killed for attempting to help Christians escape harsh Roman prisons, where they were often beaten and tortured. According to one legend, an imprisoned Valentine actually sent the first “valentine” greeting himself after he fell in love with a young girl–possibly his jailor’s daughter–who visited him during his confinement. Before his death, it is alleged that he wrote her a letter signed “From your Valentine,” an expression that is still in use today. Although the truth behind the Valentine legends is murky, the stories all emphasize his appeal as a sympathetic, heroic and–most importantly–romantic figure. By the Middle Ages, perhaps thanks to this reputation, Valentine would become one of the most popular saints in England and France.

ORIGINS OF VALENTINE’S DAY: A PAGAN FESTIVAL IN FEBRUARY

While some believe that Valentine’s Day is celebrated in the middle of February to commemorate the anniversary of Valentine’s death or burial–which probably occurred around A.D. 270–others claim that the Christian church may have decided to place St. Valentine’s feast day in the middle of February in an effort to “Christianize” the pagan celebration of Lupercalia. Celebrated at the ides of February, or February 15, Lupercalia was a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture, as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus.

To begin the festival, members of the Luperci, an order of Roman priests, would gather at a sacred cave where the infants Romulus and Remus, the founders of Rome, were believed to have been cared for by a she-wolf or lupa. The priests would sacrifice a goat, for fertility, and a dog, for purification. They would then strip the goat’s hide into strips, dip them into the sacrificial blood and take to the streets, gently slapping both women and crop fields with the goat hide. Far from being fearful, Roman women welcomed the touch of the hides because it was believed to make them more fertile in the coming year. Later in the day, according to legend, all the young women in the city would place their names in a big urn. The city’s bachelors would each choose a name and become paired for the year with his chosen woman. These matches often ended in marriage.

VALENTINE’S DAY: A DAY OF ROMANCE

Lupercalia survived the initial rise of Christianity and but was outlawed—as it was deemed “un-Christian”–at the end of the 5th century, when Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St. Valentine’s Day. It was not until much later, however, that the day became definitively associated with love. During the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds’ mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of Valentine’s Day should be a day for romance.

Valentine greetings were popular as far back as the Middle Ages, though written Valentine’s didn’t begin to appear until after 1400. The oldest known valentine still in existence today was a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans, to his wife while he was imprisoned in the Tower of London following his capture at the Battle of Agincourt. (The greeting is now part of the manuscript collection of the British Library in London, England.) Several years later, it is believed that King Henry V hired a writer named John Lydgate to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois.

TYPICAL VALENTINE’S DAY GREETINGS

In addition to the United States, Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Canada, Mexico, the United Kingdom, France and Australia. In Great Britain, Valentine’s Day began to be popularly celebrated around the 17th century. By the middle of the 18th, it was common for friends and lovers of all social classes to exchange small tokens of affection or handwritten notes, and by 1900 printed cards began to replace written letters due to improvements in printing technology. Ready-made cards were an easy way for people to express their emotions in a time when direct expression of one’s feelings was discouraged. Cheaper postage rates also contributed to an increase in the popularity of sending Valentine’s Day greetings.

Americans probably began exchanging hand-made valentines in the early 1700s. In the 1840s, Esther A. Howland began selling the first mass-produced valentines in America. Howland, known as the “Mother of the Valentine,” made elaborate creations with real lace, ribbons and colorful pictures known as “scrap.” Today, according to the Greeting Card Association, an estimated 1 billion Valentine’s Day cards are sent each year, making Valentine’s Day the second largest card-sending holiday of the year. (An estimated 2.6 billion cards are sent for Christmas.) Women purchase approximately 85 percent of all valentines.

Criminal charges brought against California hen factory farm for violating Prop 2

By HSUS ax091_0128_9

Inhumane extreme confinement of hens led to 39 charges representing first-ever prosecution under 2008 citizen initiative overwhelmingly approved by voters. San Bernardino County law enforcement authorities today charged Hohberg Poultry Ranch in Ontario, California, with 39 counts of violating the state’s Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act, along with 16 other criminal counts of violating the state’s cruelty code. This is the first time charges have been brought against an egg farm for violating the Prevention of Farm Animal Cruelty Act, also known as Proposition 2, the ballot measure which passed in 2008 with 63.5 percent support. In 2008, in one of the most famous farm animal welfare cases ever, the San Bernardino District Attorney, Michael Ramos, also conducted a landmark prosecution of a slaughter plant that was mishandling and slaughtering downer cows whose meat was distributed to school kids in 50 states.

The voter-approved law requires that each egg-laying hen must be able to fully spread her wings without touching another animal or the side of an enclosure. A February 10, 2016 on-site investigation jointly conducted by the San Bernardino County District Attorney Office, The Humane Society of the United States, Inland Valley Humane Society, and the Ontario Police Department, revealed birds locked in cramped, overcrowded cages in which they could not fully spread their wings. Decaying corpses were also found on the site, including in cages with live birds laying eggs for human consumption.

“We commend the San Bernardino District Attorney’s office for honoring the rule of law and for properly enforcing California statutes protecting farm animals and consumers,” stated Wayne Pacelle, president and CEO of The Humane Society of the United States. “California voters made their will clear with Prop 2, and California egg producers must adopt housing systems to comply with the law. What we saw at this factory farm was a gross violation of Prop 2 now more than eight years after voters approved it.”

The Humane Society of the United States points out that with 200 major food retailers – from Walmart to McDonald’s to IHOP – pledging to buy cage-free, there exists a huge array of food retailers that will buy eggs from California producers complying with the law. With the marketplace moving so decisively toward cage-free, there’s really no debate about the future of egg production in California or any other state.

When did fear become your master?

By Michael Armijofear

When I sat at my desk I felt this uneasy queasiness overwhelm me. It was a nauseating feeling as though someone had kicked me in the stomach, and although the beating was over, I could still feel the soreness. It lingered as long as my failure to act lingered. I knew I had to march into that office and begin my new quest of pursuing my dream. But I just couldn’t do it that day, so I waited. And then I waited. Soon, the wait went from hours, to days, to weeks, then months. Until finally it went on for years…… I was too fearful to leave. Too afraid to pursue a career I’ve always dreamt about.

How many times have you heard or felt: “I just can’t do it, I’m too afraid.” How many times have you heard or said: “maybe someday, but not right now.” Or the worst feeling I’ve felt: “I just can’t love again because I’m afraid of being hurt.” Every time I hear those phrases I have to ask “when did i become so fearful I just couldn’t make a move?”

I’m a firm believer in: “you can do whatever you want in life and you can have whatever you desire. You can be wherever you want to be.” A single emotion can hold many of us back (and has held me back many times), when fear interferes with a goal. A desire. A passion. A dream. When fear takes hold of those things from your mind and cheats your heart. It can take things from your family as well.

My father claimed he was a cautious man, he did things what he SAID was out of caution. I believe it was completely out of fear. He set out to do many things but he never did, although he had the means to do so. He acted like a pauper, but he died with almost a million dollars in property.

You see, we have the confidence inside us, the confidence we’re born with. It’s a confidence we deserve. I believe when we carry this and our ability, we become whatever we want to become. But when fear overwhelms us it starts to take control. You don’t take chances, you don’t roll the dice, you let fear overpower and overcome that birth given confidence. This is the time when you have hit a low in your life. This is a time when you paralyze yourself. A time you are actually standing still. Because this is the time when fear has become your master.

 

Recent Recalls

Staff Reports

  1. New American Food Products- The recall was initiated due to concerns of the possible presence of peanuts. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to specific types of allergen, such as peanuts, run the risk of serious life threatening allergic reactions if they consume the product being recalled.
  1. Minnie and Mickey Mouse infant hoodie sweatshirts- The snaps on the hoodies can detach, posing a choking hazard to young children. recalls-minnie-hoodie-sweatshirt-photo
  1. Children’s shoes (Skidders)-The rivets on the children’s shoeshave sharp edges, posing a laceration hazard.recalls-skidders-footwear-childrens-shoes
  1. Marich Confectionery of Hollister, California is voluntarily recalling 4.25oz Valentine Chocolate Caramel Hearts UPC CODE 797817-44440-9 because it may contain Triple Chocolate Toffee which contains almonds. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity almonds run the risk of serious or life-threatening allergic reaction if they consume these products.
  1. Projection night lights– The night lights can short circuit, posing shock and fire hazard to consumers.recalls-pjh
  2. Kia Motors America is recalling certain one 2016 Optima vehicle. In this vehicle, the end seal for the driver’s frontal air bag inflator may not have been properly installed, possibly resulting in reduced inflation of the frontal air bag in the event of a crash.

Living in Calorie-fornia!

By Clark’s Nutrition, C Doussett MPH, RDN

Living in a state that has such an abundance of cities with health-food stores and healthful chain stores offers a unique advantage for the health-conscious individual.  For the simple reason that our environment has as much to do with our ability to succeed as learned habits and our resources. Many organizations, businesses, and educational institutions have wellness policies that dictate steps and policies aimed at promoting wellness, preventing injury, and creating an environment where healthy choices are easy choices. As important as it is for companies and institutions to keep their constituents healthy, it is imperative to establish a personal wellness policy that is consistent with ones goals, resources, and skill set. One of the most important reasons for doing so is to avoid the twin pillars of non-communicable diseases, obesity and diabetes. So prevalent are these two scourges that many cancer researchers are now echoing the sentiments of cardiologists everywhere that the obesity and diabetes epidemic can potentially undo fifty years of progress and disease mitigation.

Type II Diabetes and problems with blood sugar control affect 1/10th or nearly 30 million people in the U.S. Overweight individuals in this country make up 70% of the population and obese individuals are at an all-time high of 38%. This is a serious issue that is multifactorial in nature and in solution. Type II diabetes is also associated with an increase in sickness and death, including blindness, heart disease, obesity, nerve damage, and amputations. Type II Diabetes manifests itself when an individual’s body can no longer control the level of blood sugar due to the constant intake of simplified sugars and fiber-less meals. The amount, type, and frequency of sugar will have a very large outcome as to the effects on the body. In addition, exercise has a major role in glucose metabolism and exercising regularly is an excellent way to maintain proper glucose levels.

Research has shown that diets that include fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes and whole grains, and a well thought out exercise program can reduce the undesirable side effects associated with type II diabetes.

  • Nuts and legumes, beans are the magical fruit (tons of minerals and complex carbs)
  • Whole grains (if tolerated) such as oats, wheat, rye, and barley (sorry, not the malted kind)
  • Fresh fruit and vegetables (as much as possible) but watch for too much of the high sugar fruits like grapes, watermelon, and pineapple and be sure to emphasize variety. Start meal planning around vegetables and the protein and fat will follow
  • Fish, chicken, and soy protein
  • Low or whole fat dairy products
  • Water and unsweetened tea
  • Fiber , fiber, fiber, females need up to 25 grams/daily and males should get 40 grams
  • Add exercise- thirty minutes a day (all at once or in intervals) five to seven days a week.

Start slow, having a group or partner to work with increases the likelihood of compliance and safety.  Focus on strength movements, cardiovascular fitness, and articular flexibility. Everyone will have a different level of performance but it is important to emphasize strength, flexibility, cardiovascular competence, and endurance. Change will come gradually and will eventually become a habit instead of a goal. Ask a nutritional consultant about more ways to make lasting changes to your lifestyle and how to take advantage of your environment.