Category Archives: Weekly News Columns

Flu Facts and Places to Avoid

By Nancy Bostrom

Widespread flu is reported in our state and nearly half the country right now and health officials say that means you can expect more people to get sick in the next few weeks.

The best way to fight the flu is to get vaccinated, but it takes two weeks for the shot to become effective.  In the meantime, the best protection is good hygiene. That’s why physicians at American Family Care, with urgent care clinics in our area, have identified the top five germiest places and how to protect yourself from them.

Top 5 Germiest Places to Avoid During Flu Season:

  1. Debit card machine.   Get into the habit of punching in your debit card pin with a knuckle instead of a fingertip.  This way if you rub your eye or mouth with your fingertip, you’re not transferring germs.
  1. Community pens. Whether at work or signing a credit card receipt at a store, never pick up a public pen because they’re covered with other people’s germs.  Keep a pen handy for any situation that could pop up.
  1. Shaking hands.   People are more germ-conscious these days so avoiding a handshake is not as rude as once thought, especially during flu season.  If you must do it, wash or sanitize your hands immediately.
  1. Cell phones, tablets.  We are constantly using our phones or computer tablets to show friends and coworkers pictures or videos. This means other people are putting their germs on something you are constantly touching.  Get into the habit of wiping your phone down with a disinfecting wipe to cut down on spreading germs.
  1. Gas pump.  Drivers must get gas no matter what, sick or not. Protect yourself at the pump, grab a paper towel by the pump before picking up the gas nozzle.  You can also use the paper towel as a barrier when punching in your debit/credit card info.

FAST FLU FACTS:

  • Children under the age of 6, pregnant women and adults 65 or older are at high risk for serious flu complications like inflammation of the heart, brain or muscle tissues or multi-organ failure.
  • Most experts think flu viruses spread mainly by droplets made when someone with flu coughs, sneezes or talks. They can infect you from six feet away.
  • People can carry the virus and risk exposing others when they show little symptoms.
  • Frequently touched surfaces at work or school should be cleaned and disinfected especially if someone is ill.

 

 

Cervical Cancer Awareness

By Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

No woman should die of cervical cancer. You can help prevent cervical cancer by getting screened regularly, starting at age 21.

Cervical Cancer is highly preventable with regular screening tests and appropriate follow-up care. It also can be cured when found early and treated.

Cervical cancer is almost always caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccines are available to protect against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical cancer.

HPV is very common in the United States and is passed from one person to another during sex. It is so common that nearly all sexually active men and women get it at some point in their lives, but few women will get cervical cancer. Talk to your health care provider about whether the HPV test is right for you.

Screening Tests: Two tests can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early—
  • The Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for precancers,which are cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately.
  • The HPV test looks for the virus that can cause these cell changes.

The Pap test is recommended for women between ages 21 and 65, and can be done in a doctor’s office or clinic. Women should start getting Pap tests regularly at age 21. If your Pap test results are normal, your doctor may say you can wait three years until your next Pap test. If you are 30 years old or older, you may choose to have an HPV test along with the Pap test. Both tests can be performed by your doctor at the same time. If your test results are normal, your chance of getting cervical cancer in the next few years is very low. Your doctor may then say you can wait as long as five years for your next screening.

If you have a low income or do not have health insurance, you may be able to get a free or low-cost Pap test through CDC’s National Breast and Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program.

HPV Vaccine

Get the HPV vaccine if you are in the age group for which it’s recommended. The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. It is recommended for preteens (both boys and girls) aged 11 to 12 years, but can be given as early as age 9 and until age 26.

Vegan Banana Chocolate Oatmeal Muffins

Vegan Banana Chocolate Oatmeal Muffins 

 

vegan-muffins

 By Adriana Sepulveda 

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups flour organic white wheat
  • 1/2 cup oats
  • 3/4 cups raw sugar
  • 3 med bananas
  • 3/4 tsp baking soda
  • 3/4 tsp baking powder
  • 3/4 cups chocolate chips
  • 1/3 cup oil

Preparation: Bake at 375 for 18 minutes.

Enjoy! 

No More Failed New Year Resolutions

By Nancy Stoops

It’s that time of year where we all start setting some new resolutions for 2016.  As we do this, we also wonder why we didn’t meet our 2015 resolutions.  Usually the reason we don’t accomplish resolutions or goals in general is because we make them unrealistic.  We also don’t give ourselves credit for accomplishing part of the goal.  For example let’s say you wanted to loose thirty pounds this year and you lost fifteen pounds.  I say that you were successful because you did part of what you set out to do.  I say if we move in the right direction of our goals them we are successful.  I also believe that if we are able to incorporate this mindset then we will eventually meet the entire goal.  On the other hand if you feel you have failed chances are you‘ll probably put the fifteen pounds back on that you originally lost and then really beat yourself up.

Be smarter this year and set more realistic goals.  Also remember that all good things take time.  More importantly meeting a goal is usually about changing a habit.  It can take awhile some times to successfully change a habit.  Think of your goals as more of lifestyle changes.  If your goal is to lose weight or to get in better shape think about how long you have had your bad habits and that you are trying to make permanent changes in your lifestyle.  Don’t be so hard on yourself this year and learn to be happy with the baby steps that you accomplish toward the big goal that you have in mind.  Also learn to reward yourself as you accomplish each baby step.  Make this New Year the year you stop self sabotaging and finally meet those life changing goals.  I believe in all you and know that you can be and have what you deserve if you just follow my plan. Happy New Year!!!!!!

This article was written by Nancy Stoops M.A., M.F.T.  Nancy is a licensed Marriage and Family Therapist.  Nancy runs free family support groups, a group on loss for seniors, and groups for teens.  For more information about any of these services feel free to contact her at (909)229-0727.  You may e-mail Nancy at nancyjstoops@verizon.net. You may purchase Nancy’s books Live Heal and Grow and Midnight the Therapy Dog at Amazon.com.

 

Mozzarella Crusted Chicken

MOZZARELLA-CRUSTED CHICKEN recipebw

with Blistered Tomatoes and Potato Wedges

By Hello Fresh 

Cooking Time: 30 min.

Servings: 2

Nutrition: 545 cal, Fat: 17 g, Sat. Fat: 5 g, Protein: 52 g, Carbs: 56 g, Sugar: 6 g, Sodium: 355 mg, Fiber: 7 g

Ingredients:

  • Yukon Potatoes- 12 oz.
  • Roma Tomatoes- 2
  • Panko Breadcrumbs- ½ Cup
  • Dried Oregano- 1 tsp
  • Paprika- 1 tsp
  • Mozzarella Cheese- ½ Cup
  • Chicken Breasts- 12 oz.

Preparation:

  1. Preheat and prep. Wash and dry all produce. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Cut potatoes into ½-inch-thick wedges, like steak fries. Core and quarter tomatoes.
  2. Roast veggies. Toss potatoes on one side of a foil-lined baking sheet with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. On other side of baking sheet, toss tomatoes with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of salt and pepper. Roast until potatoes are crispy and tomatoes are very soft, 25-30 minutes, tossing halfway through.
  3. Make panko crust. Mix panko, oregano, paprika, mozzarella cheese, a drizzle of olive oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a small bowl.
  4. Season chicken. Season chicken breasts all over with salt and pepper. Rub with a drizzle of olive oil. Place on a second baking sheet.
  5. Coat chicken. Add a layer of panko crust to top of each chicken breast, gently pressing to adhere. Pile topping as high as possible (you may have some left over).
  6. Bake chicken and serve. Bake chicken until meat is cooked through and topping is golden brown, about 20 minutes. Serve with potato wedges and roasted tomatoes.

Fresh Oranges

By Mark Hopper

When we bought our house in Diamond Bar about 30 years ago, there was a scrawny (sp) little citrus tree in the back yard.mark-hopper-color-2x2The previous owner said that he had planted the tree but it had not produced much fruit.  He had given up on it and was thinking of pulling it out. But, I’m glad that he didn’t.  Thirty years later, we continue to enjoy large, juicy navel oranges from that tree. That little tree has grown and matured over the past three decades.  It produces large, juicy oranges year after year. January is harvest season.  This year we have a bumper crop. The branches are bent low with the weight of these delicious fruit.     I love to go out in our back yard early in the morning and pick a fresh orange for breakfast. I usually slice it into three or four large pieces.  They really are delicious. There is a verse in the Bible that says, “God has shown His kindness to us by giving us rain from heaven and crops in their seasons. He provides us with plenty of of food and fills our  hearts with joy” (Acts 14:17). I’m convinced  that oranges are one of God’s best creations.  And, I’m sure that He intended for us to enjoy them.We are fortunate that we can find plenty of food at our local grocery store.  But, there is something special to see fruit begin as tiny blossoms in the spring that become beautiful, tasty fruit at the end of the year. If you have a citrus or fruit tree in your back yard, I hope you are able to enjoy it.  And, I hope you will give thanks to God who created it for you to enjoy.

 

 

History 101

Gandhi assassinatedmahatma-gandhibw

By History.com

Mohandas Karamchand Gandhi, the political and spiritual leader of the Indian independence movement, is assassinated in New Delhi by a Hindu fanatic.

Born the son of an Indian official in 1869, Gandhi’s Vaishnava mother was deeply religious and early on exposed her son to Jainism, a morally rigorous Indian religion that advocated nonviolence. Gandhi was an unremarkable student but in 1888 was given an opportunity to study law in England. In 1891, he returned to India, but failing to find regular legal work he accepted in 1893 a one-year contract in South Africa.

Settling in Natal, he was subjected to racism and South African laws that restricted the rights of Indian laborers. Gandhi later recalled one such incident, in which he was removed from a first-class railway compartment and thrown off a train, as his moment of truth. From thereon, he decided to fight injustice and defend his rights as an Indian and a man. When his contract expired, he spontaneously decided to remain in South Africa and launched a campaign against legislation that would deprive Indians of the right to vote. He formed the Natal Indian Congress and drew international attention to the plight of Indians in South Africa. In 1906, the Transvaal government sought to further restrict the rights of Indians, and Gandhi organized his first campaign of satyagraha, or mass civil disobedience. After seven years of protest, he negotiated a compromise agreement with the South African government.

In 1914, Gandhi returned to India and lived a life of abstinence and spirituality on the periphery of Indian politics. He supported Britain in the First World War but in 1919 launched a new satyagraha in protest of Britain’s mandatory military draft of Indians. Hundreds of thousands answered his call to protest, and by 1920 he was leader of the Indian movement for independence. He reorganized the Indian National Congress as a political force and launched a massive boycott of British goods, services, and institutions in India. Then, in 1922, he abruptly called off the satyagraha when violence erupted. One month later, he was arrested by the British authorities for sedition, found guilty, and imprisoned.

After his release in 1924, he led an extended fast in protest of Hindu-Muslim violence. In 1928, he returned to national politics when he demanded dominion status for India and in 1930 launched a mass protest against the British salt tax, which hurt India’s poor. In his most famous campaign of civil disobedience, Gandhi and his followers marched to the Arabian Sea, where they made their own salt by evaporating sea water. The march, which resulted in the arrest of Gandhi and 60,000 others, earned new international respect and support for the leader and his movement.

In 1931, Gandhi was released to attend the Round Table Conference on India in London as the sole representative of the Indian National Congress. The meeting was a great disappointment, and after his return to India he was again imprisoned. While in jail, he led another fast in protest of the British government’s treatment of the “untouchables”–the impoverished and degraded Indians who occupied the lowest tiers of the caste system. In 1934, he left the Indian Congress Party to work for the economic development of India’s many poor. His protege, Jawaharlal Nehru, was named leader of the party in his place.

With the outbreak of World War II, Gandhi returned to politics and called for Indian cooperation with the British war effort in exchange for independence. Britain refused and sought to divide India by supporting conservative Hindu and Muslim groups. In response, Gandhi launched the “Quit India” movement it 1942, which called for a total British withdrawal. Gandhi and other nationalist leaders were imprisoned until 1944.

In 1945, a new government came to power in Britain, and negotiations for India’s independence began. Gandhi sought a unified India, but the Muslim League, which had grown in influence during the war, disagreed. After protracted talks, Britain agreed to create the two new independent states of India and Pakistan on August 15, 1947. Gandhi was greatly distressed by the partition, and bloody violence soon broke out between Hindus and Muslims in India.

In an effort to end India’s religious strife, he resorted to fasts and visits to the troubled areas. He was on one such vigil in New Delhi when Nathuram Godse, a Hindu extremist who objected to Gandhi’s tolerance for the Muslims, fatally shot him. Known as Mahatma, or “the great soul,” during his lifetime, Gandhi’s persuasive methods of civil disobedience influenced leaders of civil rights movements around the world, especially Martin Luther King Jr. in the United States.

Did You Know?

5 Quick Scientific Facts that Will Blow Your mind

By Zmescience.com

Why aren’t there that many people into science? Personally, I believe it has something to do with how it’s being communicated and, not least, how it’s being taught in school. Raw science and data do not drive people – fun, emotional and persuasive narratives do.  We live in a world where we need people like Bill Nye to get up and be scientific, but also silly and fun. Is this so wrong? It’s debatable, but honestly I can understand why some hardcore scientists cringe at the idea of ‘popular science’. Nevertheless, what some of these top scientists might forget is that they got into their fields because of some popular science movement in the first place, be it the Apollo missions, a computer science program on PBS or one inspiring afternoon working out back when your neighbor explained how a car works.

With this in mind, here are just ten amazing things that I’ve come to learn thanks to the progress of science. It’s this sort of knowledge that’s inspired me to learn more every day and it’s my deepest hope that something similar might happen to you as well. This list is much too short though, so I’m counting on you to keep it growing by adding your own in the comments section.

1. There is enough DNA in an average person’s body to stretch from the sun to Pluto and back — 17 times

The human genome, the genetic code in each human cell, contains 23 DNA molecules each containing from 500 thousand to 2.5 million nucleotide pairs. DNA molecules of this size are 1.7 to 8.5 cm long when uncoiled, or about 5 cm on average. There are about 37 trillion cells in the human body and if you’d uncoil all of the DNA encased in each cell and put them end to end, then these would sum to a total length of 2×1014 meters or enough for 17 Pluto roundtrips (1.2×1013 meters/Pluto roundtrip).

2. The average human body carries ten times more bacterial cells than human cells

It’s funny how we compulsively wash our hands, spray our countertops and grimace when someone sneezes near us—in fact, we do everything we can to avoid unnecessary encounters with the germ world. The truth of the matter is that each and every one of us is a walking petri dish! All the bacteria living inside you would fill a half-gallon jug or 10 times more bacterial cells in your body than human cells, according to Carolyn Bohach, a microbiologist at the University of Idaho. Don’t worry, though. Most of these bacteria are helpful; in fact, we couldn’t survive without them.

For one thing, bacteria produce chemicals that help us harness energy and nutrients from our food. Germ-free rodents have to consume nearly a third more calories than normal rodents to maintain their body weight, and when the same animals were later given a dose of bacteria, their body fat levels spiked, even if they didn’t eat any more than they had before. The gut bacteria is also very important to maintaining immunity. (image source)

3. It can take a photon 40,000 years to travel from the core of the sun to its surface, but only 8 minutes to travel the rest of the way to Earth

A photon travels, on average, a particular distance, d, before being briefly absorbed and released by an atom, which scatters it in a new random direction.From the core to the sun’s surface (696,000 kilometers) where it can escape into space, a photon needs to make a huge number of drunken jumps. The calculation is a little tricky, but the conclusion is that a photon takes between many thousands and many millions of years to drunkenly wander to the surface of the Sun. In a way, the light that reaches us today is energy produced maybe millions of years ago. Amazing! (image source)

4. At over 2000 kilometers long, The Great Barrier Reef is the largest living structure on Earth

Coral reefs consist of huge numbers of individual coral polyps – soft-bodied, invertebrate animals – linked by tissue. The Great Barrier Reef is an interlinked system of about 3000 reefs and 900 coral islands, divided by narrow passages, just beneath the surface of the Coral Sea.Spanning more than 2000 km and covering an area of some 350 000 sq km, it is the largest living structure on Earth and the only one visible from space. But this fragile coral colony is beginning to crumble, battered by the effects of climate change, pollution and manmade disasters. (image source)

5. There are 8 times as many atoms in a teaspoonful of water as there are teaspoonfuls of water in the Atlantic ocean

A teaspoon of water (about 5 mL) contains 2×1023 water molecules, but each water molecule is comprised of 3 atoms: two hydrogen and one oxygen. Moreover, if you’d laid down end to end each water molecule from a teaspoon full you’d end up with a length of 50 billion km or 10 times the width of our solar system. (image source)

Top 10 Health Tips for Men

img_1254By WebMD

An expert offers advice on how to boost your sex life, rev up your workouts, and live better.

Take charge of your health, gents. The sooner you do it, the better.

“It’s not cool for a guy to wait until he’s 50 to see a doctor,” says Steven Lamm, MD, the medical director of NYU Langone Medical Center’s Preston Robert Tisch Center for Men’s Health. “Men need to care about their health above the waistline as well as below.” Here are his top 10 tips.

  1. Find a doctor.Choose one you’re comfortable with, so you can “openly discuss all aspects of your health, from your mental state to your sexual function to your overall wellness,” Lamm says.
  2. See that doctor.”Just because you are feeling well doesn’t mean you are well. Have a tendency toward denial? Don’t ignore things like black stools, vision loss, orchest pain. Unfortunately, men have a tendency to do just that.”
  3. Get informed. “You do want to be knowledgeable and understand that you shouldn’t ignore symptoms or complaints, but you don’t want to self-diagnose.”
  4. Vary your workouts. “The body gets very comfortable when you always do the sameworkout. You have got to keep varying your exercises, and they have to be an age-appropriate mix ofaerobics, muscle training, and stretching.”
  5. Eat to thrive.Getting enoughnutrition is crucial. “It’s more important than anything else except maybe sleep,” Lamm says. “Focus on nutrients rather than calories,” and eat a variety of healthy foods. “You can’t achieve optimum nutrition with limited choices.”
  6. Prioritize sleep.”Get at least 7 hours. That’s not something you should compromise. Men think they can overcomesleep deprivation by exercising or whatever,” but that’s a bad idea, he says.
  7. Check your head. “Mental health is really, really important. Think about several things: Are you drinking too much? Are you paying attention tosigns of depressionor bipolar disorder, which often get missed? If you have a family history of mental illness, suicide, and/or substance abuse, you really need someone to help you review the signs and symptoms.”
  8. Stay ready for sex. “When you’re stressed out, not sleeping, or drinking too much, you can’t get an erection on demand, and a man’s erection is a barometer for overall health. Exercising, eating well, and sleeping well are the best ways to be sure you’re a stud in the bedroom.”
  9. Care for your prostate. “The prostategrows as you get older. You’ll almost certainly have symptoms, like urinary problems. A really healthy, low-fat diet will reduce the likelihood of prostate growth and may reduce the risk ofprostate cancer.”
  10. Enjoy yourself. “Look forward to every day, to doing something for yourself every day, whether it’s a run or listening to an audiobook or practicingmeditationor yoga.  Don’t save up all of your fun for vacation.”

 

Regular Maintenance

By Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

Pastor Mark Hopper

I try to make sure that our cars get regular service and maintenance.  I used to change the oil myself but now I take our cars to the dealer or service center for regular oil changes and check ups. Recently, I took one of our cars to the dealer where we purchased it.  When we bought the car over 10 years ago, the dealer offered “life time” oil changes.  They promised to change the oil as long as we owned the car. I doubt that they expected that my wife and I would keep that car for over 10 years.  We keep going back every 5,000 miles and they keep changing the oil and filter.  Pretty nice!

Another reason that I like to take may car to the dealer is that they have nice a writing room and they have coffee and donuts. I often feel that the free donuts are almost as good as the free oil change! After I checked in and found my free donut in the waiting room, I asked another customer if I could share his table while we waited for our cars.  He was glad to make room for me. As I sat down, I noticed that he was reading something that looked familiar. I couldn’t help but ask what he was reading and he confirmed that he was reading his Bible.

In fact, he went on to explain that he read his Bible every day.  It was part of his daily routine.  On that day he was keeping up his routine while he was waiting for his car to be serviced. I was impressed that this stranger was quietly reading a Bible in a noisy waiting room.  Apparently it was a habit that he had started many years ago. I also found this interesting since I had actually preached on this very topic at our church the day before!  This stranger didn’t attend our church and had not heard my sermon, but he was doing exactly what I encouraged our people to do – read your Bible every day.

There are many different programs and apps to help you read through the Bible. I discovered that you can read through the whole Bible in three years if you only read one chapter a day.  It is pretty simple and anyone can do it. We will be starting a new three year cycle at our church next month.  You can find this simple plan our our website.  We will be starting in the Gospel of John on February 1st. Let me encourage you to start reading your Bible on a regular basis in 2017.  Don’t get discouraged if you miss a day from time to time.  Make it a habit in your daily routine.

Find a quiet place to read.  Set aside a few minutes each day.   Some people like to read early in the morning.  Others find it easier to read before bed time.  Find a time and a place that works for you. Maybe you have read the Bible in the past.  I think you will find it refreshing to do it again.  Maybe you have never read the Bible before.  Why not try it for a month or two?  I think you will be surprised and encouraged by what you learn. Just as your cars need regular maintenance and upkeep, so does your heart and mind. Reading the Bible can help maintain your personal and spiritual life, too!

 

Recent Recalls

Staff Reports

  1. Electric-powered skateboards- The lithium ion battery pack can overheat and smoke, posing a fire hazard.boosted-bottom
  2. King Meat Services, Inc., a Vernon, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately 50,991 pounds of beef products due to misbranding.
  3. Pre-Lit Globe Light Christmas trees– The fuse on the product can overheat and blow, posing a fire hazard.pre-lit-christmas-tree
  4. Dutch Valley- As a result of an ingredient supplier recall, Dutch Valley is issuing a recall on Cappuccino Snack Mix due to the potential for it to be contaminated with Salmonella. Salmonella is an organism which can cause serious and sometimes fatal infections in young children, frail or elderly people, and others with weakened immune systems. Healthy persons infected with Salmonella often experience fever, diarrhea (which may be bloody), nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain.
  5. Cynthia dressers- The recalled chests are unstable if they are not anchored to the wall, posing a serious tip-over and entrapment hazard that can result in death or injuries to children.dresser1bw
  6. Hostess Brands, LLC is voluntarily recalling its Holiday White Peppermint Hostess® Twinkies® because of a recall by Blommer Chocolate Company of the confectionary coating used on the Holiday White Peppermint Hostess Twinkies product. The confectionary coating contains milk powder ingredients recalled by Valley Milk Products, LLC due to a concern of Salmonella contamination. No illnesses have been reported to date, and none of the confectionary coating sampled has tested positive for Salmonella. However, Hostess is initiating this voluntary recall out of an abundance of caution.
  7. Bad Boy off-road utility vehicles– The off-road utility vehicles lack seat belts, posing a risk of serious injury or death to the operator and passengers in the event of a vehicle accident.photo-1-bad-boy-xto-off-road-utility-vehicle

 

Citrus Skillet Shrimp

citrus-skillet-shrimp-b39cb81f-1bwCITRUS SKILLET SHRIMP

over Basmati Rice

By Hello Fresh 

Cooking Time: 30 min.

Servings: 2

Nutrition: 530 cal, Fat: 20 g, Sat. Fat: 3 g, Protein: 30 g, Carbs: 64 g, Sugar: 10 g, Sodium: 638 mg, Fiber: 8 g

Ingredients:

  • Basmati Rice- ½ Cup
  • Red Onion- 1
  • Poblano Pepper- 1
  • Garlic- 2 Cloves
  • Green Olives- 1 oz.
  • Orange- 1
  • Lemon- 1
  • Oregano- ¼ oz.
  • Shrimp- 10 oz.

Preparation:

  1. Cook rice. Bring 1 cup water and a pinch of salt to a boil in a small pot. Once boiling, add rice, cover, and reduce to a simmer. Cook until tender, 15-20 minutes. Remove from heat and keep covered.
  2. Prep. Wash and dry all produce. Halve, peel, and thinly slice onion. Halve poblano lengthwise and remove the core and white ribs. Cut crosswise into thin strips. Thinly slice garlic and green olives. Zest, halve, and juice orange and lemon into a small bowl. Pick oregano leaves from stems and roughly chop. Discard stems.
  3. Cook veggies. Heat 1 TBSP olive oil in a large pan over medium high heat. Add poblano and onion and cook until softened and slightly charred, about 5 minutes, tossing occasionally.
  4. Cook aromatics. Add garlic, olives, oregano, and half the citrus juice to pan. Reduce heat to medium and cook until fragrant, 2-3 minutes, tossing.
  5. Cook shrimp. Season shrimp with salt and pepper. Add to pan with 1 TBSP olive oil. Cook until pink and just firm, 3-5 minutes, tossing occasionally. Pour in remaining juice, along with 1 tsp orange zest and 1 tsp lemon zest. Toss and season with salt and pepper.
  6. Finish and plate. Fluff rice with a fork. Season to taste with salt, pepper, and remaining citrus zest. Divide rice between plates and top with shrimp and its sauce.tossing occasionally.

Bringing the Best to the West

richiebulldogBy Racine Guajardo

Because real is important, Hustle Butter Deluxe was launched in February 2012, and the world shook! Hustle Butter Deluxe is the first all natural, vegan petroleum replacement that is used in the Tattoo Process. As well as used for a tattoo lubricant and tattoo aftercare.

Richie Bulldog is the Founder and Creative Director who was born in Brooklyn, NY. He is a creative entrepreneur who is passionate about his family and his Hustle. Seth Love, the Co-Founder and Richie’s right hand man is the Co-Founder and CEO of Hustle Butter Deluxe. Seth is also born in Brooklyn, NY who is a serial entrepreneur, mathematical genius, and hustler extraordinaire.

As the continued spread of the butter, people have learned this amazing new product was good for everything. I have personally used the product for more than just tattoo care. As a mother of two and one baby who had cradle cap as a new born and now suffers from eczema during the cold weather, Hustle Butter Deluxe has been an extreme help in keeping her skin moisturized and heal back to normal.

Over 4 million ounces of Hustle Butter Deluxe has shipped worldwide. Labeled in English, German and Italian, the love for Hustle Butter Deluxe is worldwide. However, Richie will be bringing the Best to the West this year at the Golden State Tattoo Expo in Pasadena. The Expo will be January 27 through 29.

Richie Bulldog will be your Master of Ceremonies at the Expo which is hosted by Nikko Hurtado and Carlos Torres. Hustle Butter Deluxe booth will have plenty of the New Hustle wear by El Whyner on hand, as well as Hustle Butter Deluxe, and Hustle Helper! All available on Hustle Row!

You Can’t knock The Hustle!

 

History 101

Deadliest Earthquake In History Rocks China

By History.com

On this day in 1556, an earthquake in Shaanxi, China, kills an estimated 830,000 people. Counting casualties is often imprecise after large-scale disasters, especially prior to the 20th century, but this disaster is still considered the deadliest of all time.

The quake struck in late evening, with aftershocks continuing through the following morning. Later scientific investigation revealed that the magnitude of the quake was approximately 8.0 to 8.3, which isn’t close to the strongest tremor on record. However, the quake struck in the middle of a densely populated area with poorly constructed buildings and homes, resulting in a horrific death toll.

The epicenter of the earthquake was in the Wei River Valley in the Shaanxi Province, near the cities of Huaxian, Weinan and Huayin. In Huaxian, every single building and home collapsed, killing more than half the residents of the city, a number estimated in the tens of thousands. It was a similar story in Weinan and Huayin. In some places, 60-foot-deep crevices opened in the earth. Serious destruction and death occurred as much as 300 miles away from the epicenter. The earthquake also triggered landslides, which contributed to the massive death toll.

Even if the number of deaths caused by the Shaanxi earthquake has been overestimated slightly, it would still rank as the worst disaster in history by a considerable margin. The earthquake and tsunami in Indonesia in 2004 is generally considered the second deadliest disaster in history.

 

Embrace Wellness in 2017 with a FREE Wellness Workshop

By City of Walnut 

Walnut – The City of Walnut invites you to join us for a Taste of Wellness in the new year with free demonstrations, chair massages, meet and greet with registered therapy dogs and a hot tea bar.

The Free Wellness workshop with Nancy Stoops, M.A M.F.T. and special guest will take place on Saturday, January 28 from 8:00 am to 12:00 noon at the Walnut Senior Center, 21215 La Puente Road., Walnut.

Presented Topics Include:

The 3 Mindful Meditations with Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T.

The Benefits of Massage presented by Austrian Healer Michael Meier

Stress Management presented by Nancy Stoops, M.A., M.F.T.

Yoga with Anne Castagnaro, Ph.D., RYT500

Featured Vendors:

doTERRA Oils by Mindy Martindale Purple Lotus Medical Massage and Wellness
Open Door, Yoga & Meditation in Downtown Pomona

Inland Empire Pet Partners, Katherine Gigandet & Rock-It-Man

Facilitator Nancy Stoops is a licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years in the practice, a published author and a columnist. Nancy has provided support to thousands of people in need and conducts every session and support group with Midnight, a registered therapy dog. As a traveler, Nancy has had the opportunity to work with healers throughout the world. She believes that with change comes opportunity.

Join us and give yourself the opportunity to find your inner Zen and discover a different light of wellness. Sign-up today by calling the Walnut Senior Center at 909-598-6200 or simply join us the day of the workshop.

 

6 Ways to Boost Women’s Health

By  Beth Orenstein  , Medically Reviewed by Lindsey Marcellin, MD, MPH

Women’s health concerns are a little different from those of men. If you’re a woman, these tips will soon have you feeling fit and energetic.

To look and feel your best at every age, it’s important to make smart lifestyle and health choices. Here are six simple things that women can do every day (or with regularity) to ensure good health:

Health Tip #1: Eat a healthy diet. “You want to eat as close to a natural foods diet as you can,” says Donald Novey, MD, an integrative medicine physician with the Advocate Medical Group in Park Ridge, Ill. That means a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and fewer processed foods. Eat whole grains and high-fiber foods and choose leaner cuts of meat, fish, and poultry. Include low-fat dairy products in your diet as well — depending on your age, you need between 800 and 1,500 milligrams of calcium daily to help avoid osteoporosis, Dr. Novey says. Avoid foods and beverages that are high in calories, sugar, salt, and fat.

Healthy eating will help you maintain a proper weight for your height, which is important because being overweight can lead to a number of illnesses. Looking for a healthy snack? Try some raw vegetables, such as celery, carrots, broccoli, cucumbers, or zucchini with dip made from low-fat yogurt.

If you’re not getting enough vitamins and nutrients in your diet, you might want to take a multivitamin and a calcium supplement to make sure you’re maintaining good health.

Health Tip #2: Exercise. Heart Disease is the leading cause of death among women in America, but plenty of exercise can help keep your heart healthy. You want to exercise at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week, if not every day. Aerobic exercises (walking, swimming, jogging, bicycling, dancing) are good for women’s health in general and especially for your heart, says Sabrena Merrill, MS, of Lawrence, Kan., a certified personal trainer and group fitness instructor and a spokeswoman for the American Council on Exercise.

Health Tip #3: Avoid risky habits. Stay away from cigarettes and people who smoke. Don’t use drugs. If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation. Most women’s health studies show that women can safely consume one drink a day. A drink is considered to be about 12 to 14 grams of alcohol, which is equal to 12 ounces of beer (4.5 percent alcohol); 5 ounces of wine (12.9 percent alcohol); or 1.5 ounces of spirits (hard liquor such as gin or whiskey, 80-proof).

Health Tip #4: Manage stress. No matter what stage of her life — daughter, mother, grandmother — a woman often wears many hats and deals with a lot of pressure and stress. “Take a few minutes every day just to relax and get your perspective back again,” Novey says. “It doesn’t take long, and mental health is important to your physical well-being.” You also can manage stress with exercise, relaxation techniques, or meditation.

Health Tip #5: Sun safely. Excessive exposure to the sun’s harmful rays can cause skin cancer, which can be deadly. To protect against skin cancer, wear sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 if you are going to be outdoors for more than a few minutes. Even if you wear sunscreen faithfully, you should check regularly for signs of skin cancer. Warning signs include any changes in the size, shape, color, or feel of birthmarks, moles, or freckles, or new, enlarging, pigmented, or red skin areas. If you spot any changes or you find you have sores that are not healing, consult your doctor.

Health Tip #6: Check for breast cancer. The American Cancer Society no longer recommends monthly breast self-exams for women. However, it still suggests them as “an option” for women, starting in their 20s. You should be on the lookout for any changes in your breasts and report any concerns to your doctor. All women 40 and older should get a yearly mammogram as a mammogram is the most effective way of detecting cancer in its earliest stages, when it is most treatable.

A woman’s health needs change as she ages, but the basics of women’s health remain the same. If you follow these six simple healthy living tips, you will improve your quality of life for years to come.

Recent Recalls

Staff Reports

  1. Dunkin’ Donuts Glass Tumblers-The glass tumblers can crack or break, posing laceration and burn hazards.glass-tumbler-image_revised
  2. Mann Packing is voluntarily recalling 205 cases of 18 ounce Organic Veggies with Organic Ranch Dip in a snacking tray because the product may contain mislabeled ingredients that could pose an allergen risk; specifically egg, milk, soy and mustard.
  1. Hostess Brands, LLC is voluntarily recalling its Holiday White Peppermint Hostess® Twinkies® because of a recall by Blommer Chocolate Company of the confectionary coating used on the Holiday White Peppermint Hostess Twinkies product. The confectionary coating contains milk powder ingredients recalled by Valley Milk Products, LLC due to a concern of Salmonella contamination. No illnesses have been reported to date, and none of the confectionary coating sampled has tested positive for Salmonella. However, Hostess is initiating this voluntary recall out of an abundance of caution.
  1. Kids toy shovels and garden tool sets- Excessive lead paint levels on the yellow shank and black blade on the shovel, and the black paint on the garden tool set violates the federal lead paint standard. In addition, the black plastic shovel handle and bag clip on the garden tool drawstring bag contain excessive lead content levels, a violation of the federal lead standard. Lead is toxic if ingested by young children and can cause adverse health effect. active-kyds-shovelbw
  1. Bakers of Paris is recalling plain, almond, and chocolate croissants sold in 18 Northern California Whole Foods Market stores due to an undeclared allergen. The croissants, sold individually in self-service cases and in clear plastic packs of four, are made with an egg wash which is not declared on the ingredient list. People who have an allergy or severe sensitivity to eggs run the risk of serious or life-threatening reactions if they consume this product. No allergic reactions have been reported to date.
  1. King Meat Services, Inc., a Vernon, Calif. establishment, is recalling approximately 50,991 pounds of beef products due to misbranding.
  1. Rock Salt Lamps- The dimmer switch and/or outlet plug can overheat and ignite, posing shock and fire hazards.basket-of-rocksbw

 

Did you know?

8 Tips If Your Child Refuses To Eat 

By healthyfoodhouse.com

Every mother knows that for proper growth and development of her child needs healthy and versatile food. But after some unwritten rule that what is healthy and beneficial for a young child knows to be repulsive and distasteful…. Usually when your kid(s) refuses to eat and some parents may even blackmail their children: “if you do not eat Swiss chard you will not get chocolate!”

According to a recent research, this method does not bring any results, but there are few other effective strategies:

  1. Let your child help you in the preparation of the meal. Two years old children enjoy making a mess in the kitchen, and if so let them do it during preparation and not during the meal.
  2. If your kids make “Circus” on the table is credence to any great importance. Besides it does not look right in the eyes, but the point of view something else. You see, since a narrow focus on something else interesting to relax and have a real chance to eat some bites.
  3. Do not insist the child to eat if he/she is too tired. First let’s take a break and then offer him/her a meal.
  4. If he/she stubbornly refuses food, remove the bowl forcing him to sit for hours at the table. It has a counter-effect that makes your child irritable, and you mommy.
  5. Try your culinary skills to show before the taster. Arrange the vegetables of different colors and different shapes because kids love out of the ordinary.
  6. If the child does not want to eat mashed broccoli, do not immediately offer him the most beloved dish, because he/she will learn to manipulate you.
  7. Mothers always be persistent and consistent. Only in this way you will achieve the desired goal. For that you do need great patience, but it pays.
  8. Finally, try to turn the meal time into sweet fun. That doesn’t mean to bring a lot of toys on the table, instead fill the period with stories, songs and good fellowship with your little one and as reward you’ll get many kisses and sweet smiles that will make your day unique and irreplaceable.
    Enjoy !

 

Safe Winter Driving Tips

By StatePoint 

While winter can be a beautiful time of year, it can also be a treacherous season on the roads. Winter driving conditions require increased attention and an ability to adapt quickly.

In 2015, 8,010 people nationwide were killed in car crashes between December and March, resulting in an average seven percent per month increase from 2014, according to the National Safety Council (NSC). These numbers are a warning to everyone on the roads about how dangerous winter driving can be.

“Winter looks more idyllic outside our house windows than outside our windshield,” said Deborah A.P. Hersman, president and CEO of the National Safety Council. “The good news is many cars are equipped with life-saving technologies. It is important that drivers understand how the technologies work in order to drive safely in winter conditions.”

In an effort to prevent crashes on the road this winter, MyCarDoesWhat, an NSC and University of Iowa initiative, is offering some major pieces of advice for driving in winter conditions.

  • Slow down. Drivers frequently underestimate how long it takes to brake and how difficult it can be to steer on slippery roads.
  • Don’t use cruise control on slippery surfaces like ice and snow. It will diminish your control and reduce your reaction time in the event of a skid.
  • Remember, bridges and overpasses freeze before roadways, so be alert in cold weather when approaching one.
  • Many new safety technologies (like back-up cameras) have outside sensors that can freeze or fog up. Always make sure they are clear so they work their best.

MyCarDoesWhat also reminds drivers of the safety technologies that can help vehicles adapt in slippery and changing conditions.

  • Anti-lock braking systems (ABS) help drivers maintain control by preventing wheels from locking up. ABS works differently than traditional brakes, delivering and releasing precise braking pressure to each wheel as needed. So, don’t pump the brakes if you have ABS. Just hold them down firmly and look and steer in the direction you want to go. The brakes may buzz and vibrate when the ABS has activated.
  • Traction control helps you accelerate without spinning out on slippery surfaces like snow and ice.
  • Electronic stability control senses when you may be losing control around a corner or curve, and can stabilize your car if it begins to veer off the road.
  • Adaptive headlights adjust to changing roadway conditions — such as curves — to provide optimum illumination along the roadway during long winter nights and periods of low daytime visibility.
  • The temperature warning feature provides updates about upcoming roadway conditions such as black ice.

“When there is snow and ice on the road, antilock brakes can improve the stability of your braking so you can steer better,” said Dan McGehee, director of the University of Iowa National Advanced Driver Simulator. “Remember to hold the brakes down even when they pulse and vibrate.”

For more information, visit MyCarDoesWhat.org and follow MyCarDoesWhat on Twitter and Facebook.

Stay safe this winter. Learn how your car works and drive slowly in dangerous conditions.

 

Balsamic Onion Burgers

Balsamic Onion Burgers 

with Crispy Cauliflower Oven Fries

By HelloFresh 

Cooking Time: 30 min.

Servings: 2

Nutrition: 684 cal, Fat: 37 g, Sat. Fat: 10 g, Protein: 32 g, Carbs: 56 g, Sugar: 11 g, Sodium: 421 mg, Fiber: 7 g

Ingredients:

  • Cauliflower Florets- 10 oz.
  • Panko- ¼ Cup
  • Red Onion- 1
  • Garlic- 1 Clove
  • Balsamic Vinegar- 1 TBSP
  • Ground Beef- 8 oz.
  • Dried Oregano- 1 TBSP
  • Mayonnaise- 1 TBSP
  • Brioche Buns- 2

Preparation:

  1. Preheat oven and roast cauliflower. Wash and dry all produce. Preheat oven to 425 degrees. Toss cauliflower with panko, a large drizzle of oil, and a pinch of salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Transfer to a baking sheet and roast until golden brown, about 25 minutes. TIP: Don’t worry if a few crumbs fall off.
  2. Prep. Halve, peel, and thinly slice onion. Mince or grate 1 clove garlic (save remaining clove for another use).
  3. Cook onion. Heat a drizzle of oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, 4-5 minutes, tossing occasionally. Stir in 1 TBSP balsamic vinegar (we sent more) and reduce heat to low. Cook until very soft, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from pan and set aside.
  4. Make burgers. Shape ground beef into two 1-inch-thick patties with your hands. Season with dried oregano, salt, and pepper. Carefully wipe out pan you cooked onions in with a paper towel, then heat a drizzle of oil in pan over medium-high heat. Add patties and cook to desired doneness, 3-5 minutes per side.
  5. Make garlic aioli. Combine 1 TBSP mayonnaise (we sent more) and garlic (to taste) in a small bowl. (TIP: Start with a pinch of garlic, then go up from there.) Season with salt and pepper. Split buns in half, place on another baking sheet, and toast in oven until golden brown, 3-5 minutes.
  6. Serve. Spread garlic aioli on buns and top each with a burger and onion. Serve with crispy cauliflower on the side.