DEC. 2014 AROUND ALHAMBRA PUBLISHED BY THE ALHAMBRA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SECTION B life community seniors / health dining / entertainment auto / real estate Finding great holiday gifts in Alhambra is easy Local businesses are filled to the brim with presents that are perfect for family, friends, and loved ones. Get in the holiday spirit by shopping at local businesses. From fun fitness classes to snappy camera deals and jewelry that sparkles, local businesses are bringing the holiday season to Alhambra homes. tain amount and receive a special discount. Ask associate for details. Give the gift of great food this holiday season or just keep it for yourself. 515 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-576-7119 • www.alondrahotwings.com Book Smart is getting parents and their kids ready for Common Core standards. Come in and get free bouncing putty. 1118 W. Valley Blvd. • Alhambra 91803 626-291-2703 • www.booksmart123.com Adiva Intimates invites customers to come in during the holiday season to buy the perfect gift for loved ones. Some of Adiva Intimates’ most popular items are the baby doll lingerie and corsets. When visiting, mention this article and receive a special coupon. Ask associates for details. 815 S. Fremont Ave. • Alhambra 91803 626-300-9100 • www.iadiva.com Alhambra Camera is offering free external cleaning and will check the menu settings of your digital camera. Mention this article, and get your camera ready for the holidays now through Dec. 24. 121 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-282-6365 • www.alhambracamera.com Stop by Alondra Hot Wings to pick up holiday gift cards for family and friends. During the entire month of December, purchase a gift card for a cer- Alhambra Camera is offering free external cleaning and will check the menu settings of your digital camera 58 Facets Jewelry can help find the perfect gift that will brighten the holiday season. The newest service offered at 58 Facets Jewelry is custom engraving. They recently installed a Signature 8080 Super engraver. This is a fully computerized engraving machine that will both engrave or foil stamp just about anything. There are special attachments that engrave both the inside and the outside of rings or bracelets. Items for engraving can be as small as a guitar pick or as large as a football. Please phone for additional information. 36 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-569-7289 • www.58-facets.com C ONTINUED ON PAGE 2B Realtors and cultural diversity B Y GARY FRUEHOLZ , D ILBECK R EAL E STATE Real estate can be a portal to viewing the world around us. A perspective like real estate can take the mega changes evolving in our world and place them into a context that is more defined and comprehensible to us. Gary Frueholz Cultural Diversity as seen through real estate is one example of this. Specific approaches in protocol such Gary Frueholz is a Realtor as business cards, introductions, and the approach to with Dilbeck Real Estate, a member of the Alhambra negotiations align with the cultures of various nations. past Planning Commission, and a As the world expands to a global economy, this diver- certified Senior Real Estate sity of economic cultures creates a Cultural Diversity Specialist. Mr. Frueholz can be reached at 626-318-9436 or in the world of real estate. by e-mailing him at An understanding of this Cultural Diversity in real gary.frueholz@dilbeck.com. See all estate transactions is valuable in foreign countries and of Gary’s articles on Alhamalso meaningful within our own culturally diverse bra at www.garysstories.com. landscape here in the United States. And a respect of this diversity can lead to successful real estate transactions. Realtors love their business cards. In the United States we give them out like water. But in other cultures, the business card is a serious element of business, and the exchange of them is a ceremony in itself. In the People’s Republic of China, business cards are held with the print facing the guest and are received with both hands. In Japan, a business card (called “Meishi”) is presented with both hands and received with the right hand. Nothing casual about this. A business card in Asia is an extension of oneself and is an extremely important element of a business relationship. The exchange of business cards among individuals working a real estate transaction is a ceremony. The casual maneuver of flipping a business card to someone is seen in a negative and disrespectful light. Also, the portraits of agents which adorn realtor business cards in the Untied States are seen as garish and unprofessional in many cultures. A smart move on the realtor’s part is to have the backside of their card printed in the language of the culture they are dealing with and leave the picture off. And in Asia, be sensitive to follow the “pecking order” in presenting your business card. The most important person in the real estate transaction receives your card first. When in doubt, start with more senior individuals. You never get a second chance to make a first impression. And in Asia, the presentation of the business card often creates this first impression. CONTINUED ON P AGE 26B Tree Lighting Ceremony on Friday, Dec. 5 Downtown Alhambra will host its Tree Lighting Ceremony from 5:30 to 9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at the Renaissance Plaza, northeast corner of Main and Garfield. Free photos with Santa will be available after Santa arrives by fire truck to light the Christmas tree at 6 p.m. Music will be provided by the Swingin’ 8 Balls. Complimentary refreshments will be offered. For more information, phone 626282-5767. PAGE 2B CHURCH / AROUND ALHAMBRA 58 Facets Jewelry can help find the perfect gift that will Evike.com is a one-stop shop for awesome gifts. From apbrighten the holiday season. The newest service offered at parel, sporting goods, collectibles, Oakley, and GoPro, Evike.com is a one-stop shop for awesome gifts. 58 Facets Jewelry is custom engraving. Marini Music celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Beatles with an in-store tribute to raise money for the GIST Cancer Foundation. The participating musicians were Marini Music staff members with a little help from their friends, customers Rick Fowler on drums and Daniel Lugo on piano. 12/2014 With the holidays fast approaching, now is the time to jump start your metabolism and fitness at The Fit Factor. Finding great holiday gifts in Alhambra is lots of fun and easy CONTINUED FROM P AGE 1B Jayvee Dance Center will offer a special for adult dance classes. Enroll and bring a friend to enroll in one six-week session and receive a special voucher to use toward the next session. Ask associate for details. Offer lasts through the holiday season and into the New Year. Expires 1/31/15. 216 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-281-5858 • www.jayveedancecenter.net Fosselman’s Ice Cream has tempting holiday ice cream flavors like cinnamon, peppermint bark with chocolate, pumpkin, gingerbread, and egg nog. 1824 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-282-6533 • www.fosselmans.com Evike.com offers unique gift ideas that are not boring this holiday. From apparel, sporting goods, collectibles, Oakley, and GoPro, Evike.com is a one-stop shop for awesome gifts. 2801 W. Mission Rd • Alhambra 91803 626-286-0360 • www.evike.com Marini Music is offering four free guitar lessons with the purchase of any guitar. This past month they celebrated the 50th anniversary of the Beatles with an in-store tribute to raise money for the GIST Cancer Foundation. The musicians were Marini Music staff members with a little help from their friends, customers Rick Fowler on drums and Daniel Lugo on piano. 222 Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-289-0241 • www.marinimusic.com With the holidays fast approaching, now is the time to jump start your metabolism and fitness to make room for all those yummy meals. Take a class with The Fit Factor’s newest fitness gurus: Annalee, Amy, Danielle, and Sherry. They are waiting at The Fit Factor Studio on Main Street in the heart of Downtown Alhambra. 38 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 Alhambra is Rich in Restaurants See Pages 15-18 12/2014 CHURCH / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 3B St. Therese Catholic Church 90 years of Ministry 1100 East Alhambra Road •Alhambra CA 91801 (626) 282-2744 • www.sttheresechurchalhambra.org The Carmelite Friars of St. Therese Church invite you to attend one of our Christmas Masses! Our Mass times are as follows: Christmas Eve 5:00 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and Midnight Christmas Day 7:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m. AND a Latin High Mass at 1:00 p.m. Please note that there will be NO 5:00 p.m. Mass on Christmas Day. New Year’s Eve EVENING OF THANKSGIVING The St. Therese Carmelite Friars AND our neighbors, the Carmelite Sisters of the Sacred Heart, also invite you to this joint New Year’s Eve celebration. This special night of prayer will begin at Sacred Heart Retreat House (920 East Alhambra Road) at 8:00 p.m. with Registration, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, and a conference. From 9:00 to 10:00 p.m., there will be Confessions and Adoration; at 10:00 p.m., Benediction and Refreshments. Then, at 10:30 p.m. there will be a Candlelight Rosary Procession to St. Therese Church. At 11:00 p.m., there will be another conference and more time for Confessions. Then last, but certainly not least, will be Midnight Mass. PAGE 4B CHURCH / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 CHRISTMAS IN ALHAMBRA Christmas: A holiday celebrated year round B Y R EV . F RANCIS C HUNG , M ANDARIN B APTIST C HURCH OF L OS A NGELES C hristmas is a season of cel ebration, full of cheer and laughter, with an abundance of good will. To the delight of both young and old, gifts are bought, given, and exchanged in numerous gatherings with friends and family. This holiday spirit makes Christmas a time of heartfelt joy. This joy is evident because Christmas signifies the good news of Jesus Christ and His birth on this earth. The Gospel of Luke depicts an account with an an- nouncement by an angel of the Lord and the subsequent response from the heavenly angels: In the same region there were some shepherds staying out in the fields and keeping watch over their flock by night. And an angel of the Lord suddenly stood before them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them; and they were terribly frightened. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid; for behold, I bring you good news of great joy which will be for all the people; for today in the city of David there has been born for you a Savior, who is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign for you: you will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” And suddenly there appeared with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased.” (Luke 2: 8-14 NASB) This is the message of Christmas; God has not abandoned mankind. God was born as a man to save mankind. In celebration of the birth of Christ, Mandarin Baptist Church of Los Angeles (MBCLA) will host a special production of a Christmas play entitled “Simeon’s Song.” This will take place at 9 a.m. Sunday, Dec.21. Following this live perfor- Around Alhambra For advertising rates and other information, contact Alhambra Chamber of Commerce 104 S. First St., Alhambra, CA 91801 Tel: 626-282-8481 Fax: 626-282-5596 www.alhambrachamber.org mance, we will host a Christmas Eve Service at 7 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24. However, the theme of Christmas should never be limited to a few weeks in December; it should fill our hearts and lives throughout the year. During the Christmas season, the members of MBCLA provide gifts and visit local convalescent homes. We have also donated more than 1,000 shoe boxes filled with gifts to children around the world through the organization Samaritan’s Purse. Our giving continues even after the holiday season has passed. Throughout the year, we donate backpacks and school supplies to needy families that attend a neighborhood school, visit and serve at a homeless shelter in the downtown area, provide free health clinics and English classes, sponsor a bone marrow drive, and minister to families that are affected by disabilities. In this manner, the spirit of Christmas is a part of our lives and an ongoing call of service. This year, I urge you to celebrate Christmas year round with us. Perform acts of service and make self-less giving a daily lifestyle. Bring the joy of Christmas to those around you at all times, and in the name of Jesus, keep the joy alive. 12/2014 CHURCH / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 5B GREAT CHRISTMAS MUSIC TO BE PERFORMED IN SO CAL Angeles Chorale to present An American Christmas, Dec. 13 Hollywood Master Chorale to present Good Tidings Dec. 6 My Heart Needs A Night Like This Charpentier’s Messe de Minuit pour Noël Whether it’s via Web sites like Jacquie Lawson or, more traditionally, through snail mail, most of us can count on receiving a holiday card or two this upcoming season. But a card with a four-part carol penned within it is a bit tougher to come by. Those hoping to open such a card will want to attend “An American Christmas” performed at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 13 at First United Methodist Church in Pasadena, when the Angeles Chorale presents a program of holiday music that will include the Alfred Burt Carols. “I absolutely adore the Alfred Burt Carols,” said Artistic Director John Sutton. “They are not only beautiful but so very personal because they began as holiday messages for friends of the Burt family. “Originally Alfred Burt’s father, an Episcopal priest, wrote both the lyrics and music, but Alfred soon showed signs of so much talent that he took over composition duties. By the time Alfred’s father died, the carols had become such a popular tradition that Alfred chose to continue writing them in his father’s honor.” Yet while the Burt family’s mailing list grew from 50 to 450 people, the carols remained largely unknown until shortly before Burt’s death in 1954, when Columbia Records learned of the carols and assembled a choir of Hollywood singers to perform the carols. Burt completed the last carol, Angeles Chorale presents An American Christmas Celebrating Christmas music written/arranged by American composers, including Alfred Burt (Caroling, Caroling; All on a Christmas Morning; We’ll Dress the House; Star Carol;) Randol Alan Bass (Gloria) Daniel Pinkham (Christmas Cantata) Morten Lauridsen (O Magnum Mysterium) Lullay My Liking (Holst) Handel (Hallelujah Chorus) Mel Torme (The Christmas Song) And a jazz arrangement of God Rest Ye Merry Gentlemen Saturday, Dec. 13 at 7:30 pm First United Methodist Church 500 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena 91101 $25/person $30/person at the door $20/students at door with valid ID www.angeleschorale.org 818-591-1735 The Star Carol, which the Chorale will perform, less than 24 hours before he died. Since then performers ranging from Nat King Cole to Simon and Garfunkel have recorded versions of Burt’s works. MORE INFORMATION ON P AGE 17B When the Hollywood Master Chorale presents its holiday concert, “Good Tidings,” at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Beverly Hills Presbyterian Church, it will be celebrating some good tidings of its own, its 20th Anniversary Season. “This is a huge milestone for any nonprofit organization,”said Artistic Director Dr. Lauren Buckley Schaer. “But for the Hollywood Master Chorale it is especially important because we are celebrating not only longevity but community.” For Schaer, the term “community” is wide reaching. For starters, the 20th anniversary is a celebration of the friendships that come with being bound together by a common love of choral music. “Several pieces on the program help to highlight this special relationship,” Dr. Schaer said. “Most notably the two settings of Auld Lang Syne. The first is the tune everyone will recognize as the traditional song on New Year’s Eve, but the second is perhaps even more beautiful and poignant. Both entreat the listener to remember friends of old even as we celebrate the future.” And, of course, “community” extends to those who resonate to what Leonard Bernstein described as the “joy of music.” “I wanted to present a concert that is a thank you gift to our audience,” said Dr. Schaer. “I lifted the title, Good Tidings, directly from the lyrics of We Wish You a Merry Christmas because that is our greatest desire: to give something to our audience that makes their lives and our community better - music.” The large work featured in “Good Tidings” is Marc Charpentier’s Messe de Minuit pour Noël (Midnight Mass for Christmas). Accompanied by harpsichord, every movement is based on a traditional French carol. “By borrowing these tunes, Charpentier creates a sense of intimacy and familiarity,”said Dr. Schaer. “He invites his listeners to come together to recognize a common melody threaded within a new musical creation.” Since there is no season more often accompanied by tradition than the holidays, the HMC brass ensemble will once again return to join the chorale. Plus, what is more traditional than a sing-along? Tickets for “Good Tidings” are available online through Brown Paper Tickets at http:/ /www.brownpapertickets.com/event/893725. For more information about the Hollywood Master Chorale or the upcoming performance, visit the HMC Web site at www.hollywoodmasterchorale.org or phone 323960-4349. Tickets are $20 for general seating and $15 for seniors. Beverly Hills Presbyterian Church is located at 505 Rodeo Drive, Beverly Hills, 90210. Celebrating the Birth of Christ First Baptist Church of Alhambra 101 South Atlantic Blvd. Alhambra, CA 91801 (626) 570-1511 Join us this holiday season! “For unto us a child is born, Unto us a son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And his name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.” Isaiah 9:6 NKJV The Celebration Choir and Orchestra with Southlands Christian School Chorale presents Three Gifts Dec. 14, 10:30 a.m. Worship Center Christmas Eve Service and Reception firstbaptistchurch@discoverthejoy.com www.discoverthejoy.org Dec. 24, 6 p.m. Worship Center PAGE 6B SENIOR NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 Seniors / Retirees News |Activities, Projects, Features UNDERSTANDING THE SENIOR EXPERIENCE Finding meaningful gifts for seniors B Y D ENNIS M C F ADDEN R ETIRED P RESIDENT /CEO A THERTON B APTIST H OMES Even with temperatures in the ’80s and ’90s last month, Californians who enter stores or listen to commercials realize that shopping days for Christmas are slipping away quickly. For some of us, the challenge of honoring the seniors in our lives presents a head-scratching problem of frustrating complexity. Many older persons protest that they do not “need” anything and may not welcome the standard stuff. And, by the time we arrive at December, we have already exhausted the obvious items we gave them for Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and their birthdays. A senior with a wish to “down size” presents an even greater dilemma. Here are some general ideas to assist you in making it through the holidays successfully as you seek to honor grandma or grandpa or some other senior in your life. Sentimental gifts Dr. Dennis E. McFadden has recently retired as president and CEO of Atherton Baptist Homes. The value of a sentimental gift lies in its ability to speak in the language of the heart. A “Grandma Poem” will bring a tear to anyone’s eyes. If you combine it with a picture of her and her grandchildren and frame it, you will have a permanent keepsake. Family pictures, including school photos of the grandkids or great grandkids, can also become a meaningful gift. When she was alive, my mother always appreciated receiving the latest school photographs of her grandchildren as Christmas presents. She proudly displayed them and showed them off to her friends, each one with a special story or unique vignette. Useful gifts Personalized mugs are great gifts for a grandparent. Malls generally have places where you can even have a favorite photo applied to the mug along with a greeting or expression of love. Electric foot massagers and back massagers can bring great relief to a senior. Kiosks in malls often sell bean bag neck warmers that can be heated in a microwave and used to apply soothing comfort to a stiff joint or arthritic neck. Slippers are always a winter favorite, even in sunny California. If you still need something to stimulate your “When we needed help, we discovered Vista Cove at San Gabriel” Quality • Assisted Living • Memory Care • Respite Care AT SAN GABRIEL For more information or to schedule a tour, please phone (626) 289-8889 901 W. Santa Anita St., San Gabriel, CA 91776 Lic. #197606796 own creativity, there are numerous Web sites that specialize in practical ideas for older persons. For example: SeniorStore: http://www.seniorstore.com/giftideas.html First Street: http://www.firststreetonline.com/ Electronics+amp+Gadgets/ Parent Giving: http://www.parentgiving.com/shop/ gift-shop-415/c/ These sites are but a few of many places to go for gift-giving suggestions. Shared experiences Those who do not live in large houses, especially those who have moved into a senior retirement community or assisted living facility, may not be interested in receiving anything at all. For such a person, a family adventure may be the best bet. When my mother was in her 90s, our entire family (including sons, grandchildren and their spouses, and several great-grandchildren) all spent a day with great grandma at Disneyland. Up until her death, my mother fondly remembered the wonderful time she had sharing with the whole family in our day at the park. Less expensive but no less meaningful would be a day-trip, picnic, or dinner at a favorite restaurant. Finally, don’t ignore the power of cards and flowers. When my mother turned 90, she was blessed to receive beautiful floral arrangements. More than a week after her birthday, she still insisted that every visitor to her assisted living apartment at Atherton Baptist Homes see her flowers and array of greeting cards. Gifts are expressions of tender love and connect us to the giver. This Christmas, make sure that the seniors in your life know that they are loved by you and that you not only value their part in your life but you seek to honor them for who they are and all that they have done in their lives. Public invited to Holiday Craft Fair at Joslyn Adult Rec. Center, Dec. 3 The Joslyn Adult Recreation Center, 210 N. Chapel Ave. (in Story Park), regularly provides a wide range of activities and services for Alhambra’s senior population, including health screenings, informational seminars, special events, a daily hot meal, and more. Joslyn is opening its doors to the entire Alhambra community from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3, for a Holiday Craft Fair. Local crafters, talented in the creation of unique, hand-crafted works of art, will highlight their wares for shoppers who want to find that special gift for the holidays, or, on a more personal level, just the right decoration to add interest and color to their own home décor. An early arrival will ensure the widest variety of crafts available for purchase, but a visit, anytime during the day, will please the eye and the pocket book. 12/2014 SENIOR NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 7B PAGE 8B SENIOR NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 Joslyn Adult Recreation Center Joslyn celebrates another year of service It’s been another busy year at the Joslyn Adult Recreation Center, 210 N. Chapel Ave., and on the eve of another year, the beat goes on: club meetings; health screenings; special events; informational seminars; a hot meal every week day, including birthday and special celebrations; a relaxing library; and friends with whom to meet and chat. December events of special interest for seniors include: Happy December Birthday Luncheon Celebration 11 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3. Co-sponsored by Care 1st Health Plan. December birthday honorees in attendance will receive a token gift. Holiday Craft Fair 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 3. Crafters will sell their creative hand-crafted works enabling seniors to purchase unique, original art works for those on their gift lists. Fee for crafters: $20. Holiday Blues Informational Seminar 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 10. Presented by VITAS Innovative Hospice Care. Holiday Festivities, including a Holiday Luncheon Celebration, starting at 9 a.m. Tuesday, Dec. 23. The Music Center ushers will provide a musical presentation. Seniors will be invited to visit with Santa. A special luncheon menu will be provided at 11 a.m. New Year’s Eve Luncheon Celebration & Countdown beginning at 10 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 31. Ring in the New Year with Joslyn friends, with hopes for a new year filled with good health, wealth, happiness, luck, and warmth. Lunch, the last of the year, will be special. Joslyn will open again from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, Jan. 2, beginning a new year of senior programs and services. Senior Outings on the road throughout Southern California The Senior Outings luxury coach hits the road for the final views of beautiful Southern California on Friday, Dec. 5, to Fashion Island & Roger’s Garden and on Thursday, Dec. 18, to Huntington Harbor Cruise of Lights. Registration for these two trips took place last month, so phone 626-570-5056, or visit the Joslyn office to determine if any seats are available. In January, Senior Outings visits: Huell Howser Archives & Old Town Orange from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 16. The fee is $12. Morongo Casino & Cabazon Outlets from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 28. The fee is $12. Registration for these outings takes place on Tuesday, Dec. 2. See a full description of registration procedures in the City of Alhambra winter/spring 2015 Leisure Classes, Activities & Excursions Guide, available at www.cityofalhambra.org. Huell Howser is referred to as “the late TV legend,” but it is as if he is still here in countless television shows, including the recent repeat of the Fosselman Ice Cream Company segment and in the Huell Howser Archive, an exhibit that includes images, text, and artifacts outlining Howser’s career and legacy, located in Chapman University’s Leatherby Libraries, and sponsored by the Automobile Club of Southern California. The Huell Howser visit, a very special treat, will be followed by a visit to Old Town Orange and especially to the Orange Plaza where there are myriad shopping opportunities and a variety of restaurants, pubs, and casual eateries in which to enjoy lunch (not included). February Senior Outings feature an immersion in art and culture as the luxury coach heads for: Getty Center Museum from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Feb. 11. The fee is $12. Hsi Lai Temple from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 25. The fee is $18. The Getty houses a spectacular collection of Western Art, including European paintings, drawings, sculptures, and decorative arts This visit will include a viewing of the “Spectacular Rubens” exhibit, which recently received a rave review in the Los Angeles Times. The buildings and gardens are also considered works of art and can be enjoyed while eating lunch in the picnic area or after dining in one of the center’s cafes. The Hsi Lai Temple is within a 15-acre site built to serve as a spiritual and cultural center for those interested in learning more about Buddhism and the Chinese culture. A guided tour will provide visitors with information concerning the buildings, gardens, and statuary of ancient Chinese monasteries. A full vegetarian lunch in the dining hall is included in the outing cost. Registration for the Getty and Hsi Lai visits takes place on Tuesday, Jan. 6. Senior Outings in the spring months include: Ojai, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. March 12, and Japanese Garden and Sherman Oaks Galleria, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. March 23. The fees are $12 and $15. Registration day is Feb. 3. Downtown Ventura, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. April 9, and Los Angeles County Arboretum and Sierra Madre, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. April 21. Both trips are $12. Registration day is March 3. Americana at Brand and Griffith Observatory, 1:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. May 14, and Santa Monica on Farmers Market Day, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. May 27. The fee is $12 for both trips. Registration day is April 7 12/2014 HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 9B Health & Medical News|Hospitals, Physicians, Dentists, Facilities Preventing type 2 diabetes: steps toward a healthier life N ATIONAL I NSTITUTE OF H EALTYH HTTP :// NEWSINHEALTH . NIH . GOV People with diabetes have a problem with blood sugar. Their blood sugar, or blood glucose, can climb too high. Having high levels of sugar in the blood can cause a lot of trouble. Diabetes raises the risk for heart disease, blindness, amputations, and other serious issues. But the most common type of diabetes, called type 2 diabetes, can be prevented or delayed if the right steps are taken. About 29 million Americans, or nearly one in 10 people, have diabetes. Many more have a condition called prediabetes. People with prediabetes usually have no symptoms, yet they’re at risk for eventually developing type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke. Research shows that one can greatly reduce the risk for type 2 diabetes and prediabetes by eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of physical activity, and losing excess weight. Type 2 diabetes arises because of problems related to a hormone called insulin. Digested food is broken down and converted to glucose and other molecules, which then travel through the bloodstream. Insu- lin signals cells to let glucose in for use as an energy source. When a person has type 2 diabetes, either the body’s cells have trouble using insulin, or the body isn’t producing enough insulin. As a result, glucose can build up to harmful levels in the blood. Type 2 diabetes occurs most often in people who are middleaged or older, but younger people can get it too. “Before the mid- to late-1990s, we almost never saw type 2 diabetes in youth,” said Dr. Barbara Linder, an NIH expert on childhood diabetes. But now, type 2 diabetes is becoming more common in young people, alongside increasing rates of childhood obesity. Some factors that raise people’s risk for type 2 diabetes are beyond their control. Having an immediate family member with diabetes increases one’s risk. Type 2 diabetes is also more common in some races or ethnicities, including AfricanAmericans, Alaska Natives, American Indians, Asian-Americans, Pacific Islanders, and Hispanic/Latinos. People who are overweight, obese, or inactive are also much likelier to develop type 2 diabetes. But these are risk factors that you can change, and doing so will greatly reduce the risk for diabetes. To understand how weight loss might affect diabetes risk, NIH launched a study in the early 1990s called the Diabetes Prevention Program. Doctors already knew that being overweight or obese was a risk factor for diabetes, but they didn’t know if losing weight would reduce that risk. The study enrolled more than 3,000 people who were overweight and had prediabetes. They were randomly assigned to different groups. One group met regularly with study staff to focus on healthy behaviors, such as eating fewer calories and exercising more; they aimed to lose at least 7% of their body weight and to do at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week. Another group received metformin, a drug commonly used to treat type 2 diabetes, along with standard advice on diet and exercise. A control group received standard advice and an inactive placebo pill, which had no drug effects. After an average of around three years, the researchers found that diabetes risk dropped by 58% in the group encouraged to make healthy lifestyle changes. About 38% in that group had achieved and maintained their weight loss goals and 58% their physical activity goals. The group taking metformin was also less likely to develop diabetes; their risk dropped by 31% compared to the control group. In a follow-up study, both lifestyle changes and metformin continued to reduce the risk of developing diabetes, although their effects declined. After 10 CONTINUED ON PAGE 13B Fremont Optometry Center Se Habla Español 2447 W. Valley Blvd. • Alhambra, CA 91803 • (626) 300-9251 GARFIELD HEALTH CENTER Medical Group Inc. www.garfieldhealthcenter.com 320 S. Garfield Ave. Suite #322 Alhambra, CA 91801 • (626) 570-9892 Contact Dr. W. J. Kattar Doctor of Chiropractic By Appointment Only 626-570-9892 Services Chiropractic Care • Physiotherapy • Acupuncture • Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation ANNOUNCING Health & Physical Wellness Month HOLIDAY SPECIAL $70 for New Patient/Initial Evaluation • $40 Follow-Up Visits Give the Gift of Health • Gift Certificates Available No Insurance Needed • No Referrals Needed • Cash Rates PAIN RELIEF WITHOUT SURGERY Low Back Neck & Shoulders Wrists/Hands Hips & Knees Arthritic Pain Chronic Pain Sprain & Strain Tendonitis Disc Herniation Sciatica Radiculopathy Carpal Tunnel INJURIES Work Injury Auto Injury Sports Injury PAGE 10B HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 Salivary Diagnostics can predict diabetes in children B Y J OHN C HAO , D.D.S. Certain proteins (biomarkers) in the saliva of children have been identified to be possible predictors of Type II diabetes in a study published online in Public Library of Science June, 2014. Based on this study, it is anticipated that salivary testing can in the future displace other more invasive methods, such as blood tests. It is speculated that in the future, saliva collected during a dental visit can be used to help diagnose medical conditions in conjunction with your physician. The present study was conducted by researchers from the Forsyth Institute in Cambridge, Mass. They evaluated metabolic differences in 774 11-year-old children who were underweight, of normal healthy weight, overweight, or obese. In this study, four salivary biomarkers, including insulin and C-reactive protein, changed with increasing obesity. Other biomarkers can be identified in future studies that can be used to diagnose or prognosticate (predict) risk of disease, regardless of body weight. The advantage of salivary testing is that it is non-invasive and can be easily used to screen large numbers of people, especially children. This sort of non-invasive testing is important in developing disease prevention programs focused on children. Called Salivary Diagnostics, this kind of testing “could provide a more acceptable alternative, which could create a Smile Talk For more information, contact Dr. John Chao at 626-308-9104. Visit Dr. Chao’s Web site, chickenswelcome.com new paradigm for research in preventive health,” said Dr. Max Goodson, author and senior member of the staff at Department of Applied Oral Sciences at The Forsyth Institute. More and more, your dentist will be corroborating with your physician in order to work together to bring you better dental health as well as system health. Seeing your dentist regularly has become even more important than ever. GROUND-BREAKING DISCOVERY IN DENTISTRY* New patented treatment for receding gum line Pinhole Surgical Technique™ Restores Smiles in One Visit • Do you have receding gums? • Are your teeth sensitive to hot or cold? • Are your teeth sensitive to brushing? • Are receding gums ruining your smile? BEFORE AFTER Restore Your Beautiful Smile New no-cut, no gum grafting technique is: knifeless, stitch-free, and relatively pain free Brief Procedure is Quick Healing John C. Chao, DDS, MAGD of Alhambra Inventor of Patented Pinhole Surgery Technique™ • Patent No. US 8.007.278.B2 • Patent No. US 8.202.092.B2 To solve your problem using Dr. Chao’s patented technique, Call 888-928-5905 * Published in The International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry, October 2012. 12/2014 HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA For Your Good Health Manual therapy, an integrated approach to whole body health B Y S HEILA Y ONEMOTO , P.T. As a physical therapist, I often see people with multiple problems. The prime concern becomes sorting out top priorities. No more simply, “Do this exercise and your ankle will feel better.” Instead, we recognize swelling can best be treated by opening up the lymph flow affecting ankle movement, balance, and strength. Our priority becomes determining which techniques give the most benefits in the least amount of time. Many patients have numerous problems that can slow the healing process or progress with their rehabilitation program, such as digestive issues preventing proper nutrient absorption. Others cannot sleep, and some have chronic systemic problems zapping their energy, making it difficult to add musclestrengthening exercises to their daily routine, since even doing normal living activities exhausts them. In these days of managed care emphasizing quick results, we need more efficient and effective treatment methods. This may include helping people sleep better or improving their nutrition. The health care system used to separate the various systems and established “specialists,” such as lung, heart, and liver. Today, insurance companies have made “generalists” more important. Now we see a person as a whole integrated system rather than a collection of pieces. Physical therapists who previously screened only the muscle and joint systems have broadened their approach. They understand how the supportive tissues influence the immune system, which is critical for the health of the individual. Many techniques stimulate the person’s own healing process in a gentle manner, so as to cause no further damage to the system. Unfortunately, many medical procedures and treatments do cause unintentional damage while attempting to promote healing, such as the numerous de- Sheila Yonemoto, P.T., has been a physical therapist for more than 30 years, specializing in integrative manual therapy, using a holistic approach. She can be reached at Yonemoto Physical Therapy, 55 S. Raymond Ave, Suite 100, Alhambra 91801. Sheila also offers a “Chinese Energy” exercise class. Phone 626576-0591 for more information or visit www.yonemoto.com In these days of managed care emphasizing quick results, we need more efficient and effective treatment methods. structive side effects from medicines. An unwanted side effect from surgery is scar tissue. A detrimental result from exercise can be increased pain. Solutions for health problems should contain a multi-dimensional approach including all of the various systems for an overall maximum effect. Unfortunately, taking one magic pill just doesn’t exist today. Perhaps it never did, and we finally see the situation more realistically. PAGE 11B PAGE 12B HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 Karen H. Chao, O.D. Buy, give eye-friendly toys to have safe holidays B Y K AREN C HAO , O.D. Looking for gifts for kids? The holidays are filled with anticipation of gifts and new toys. When making decisions for selecting new toys, parents need to tell Santa and loved ones to pick eye-safe and age appropriate toys for children. In general, parents should avoid toys with pointed, sharp or rough edges or pieces. Blocks are great for almost any age as long as corners and edges are blunted to reduce the risk of eye injury. Also, to avoid eye injuries, beware of long-handled toys, like mops, brooms, pony sticks, and rakes. Check to make sure that they have rounded handles and watch closely children under 2 with such toys. Be careful to avoid toys that may be age appropriate for an older child but could be dangerous for a younger child. Always supervise children in situations when they might share an inappropriate toy with a younger sibling. While children may ask Santa for the latest computer and video games, there are some tried and true toys which children love, are safe and they help your child build vital learning skills. If your CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE Dr. Karen H. Chao, O.D. has been an Optometrist in private practice for more than 20 years. In addition to general optometric care, her services include Vision Therapy, Neuro-Optometric Evaluation for Traumatic Brain Injury, Corneal Refractive Therapy, and Low Vision Services. She can be reached at 121 S. Del Mar Ave., Ste. A, San Gabriel 91776. Phone Dr. Chao at 626-287-0401 or visit www.TotalVisionDC.com for more information. 12/2014 HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA Diabetes Prevention — CONTINUED FROM PAGE 9B years, people who continued with lifestyle changes delayed diabetes by about four years compared to people in the control group. People who continued to take metformin delayed diabetes by about two years. Metformin has long been used and approved for treating type 2 diabetes. However, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration hasn’t approved the drug for preventing type 2 diabetes. Research suggests that the drug’s preventive effects may work best in younger and heavier people. For older people, lifestyle changes were especially helpful; they lowered diabetes risk by 71%. “Weight loss is key, and physical activ- ity is very important, but lifestyle changes are never easy,” said NIH’s Joanne Gallivan, director of the National Diabetes Education Program (http://ndep.nih.gov). The program offers resources to help with weight loss, healthy eating, and physical activity. Specific tips are provided for certain groups of people, such as children and older adults. Most materials are offered in Spanish, and some are available in other languages. As the Diabetes Prevention Program showed, diet and exercise can reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. You’re most likely to succeed at weight loss, Linder said, “if you can find some physical activity that you enjoy and can do every day.” Consider toys to help your kids — CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE child spends too much time on the computer, and add to that prolonged TV watching, he or she won’t develop many of the underlying visual skills required for academic success. Just as motor skills and learning and cognitive skills require development, vision also requires development and can benefit from a variety of toys and activities. And developing a child’s visual skills is critical to success in the classroom. Did you know there are more than 15 visual skills in addition to being able to see “20/ 20”? These skills are vital to reading and learning in children. This holiday season, you can help your child by looking for toys to help with: • Building eye-hand coordination. • Shape and size discrimination, which is important for reading. • General movement skills, for everything from writing to sports. • Space and distance judgments, which are crucial for driving and sports. • Left/right awareness, which is vital in avoiding reversals. • Visual thinking. • Visualization. • Visual memory skills, which enable us to develop concepts. Have a fun, safe, and healthy holiday season by encouraging your children to round out their activities with some of these tried and true games. If you find your child doesn’t like these games, it could be a sign of a vision problem in which case you should schedule a developmental vision evaluation with an optometrist who provides an in-office program of optometric vision therapy. PAGE 13B PAGE 14B HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA Nearly 60% of commonly taken drugs cause dry mouth Dry mouth refers to any condition in which your mouth is unusually dry. Most often, dry mouth is the result of a decrease in saliva produced by the glands in your mouth (salivary glands). Why is saliva so important? Adequate saliva helps keep your teeth clean and protects your gums. It prevents infection by controlling bacteria and fungi in the mouth. It makes it possible for you to chew and swallow. Dry mouth and drugs Hundreds of medications, including many over-the-counter drugs, produce dry mouth as a side effect. Dry mouth leaves you more vulnerable to decay and gum disease. Here is a list of the most common medications that reduce saliva production: Antihistamines: allergy alleviating drugs, many of them over the counter. Decongestants: Medicines of this group are easily available over the counter to treat cold symptoms. Antidepressants: They are becoming more common prescription drugs. Anorexiants are drugs that act on the brain to suppress appetite. They are also known as diet pills. Hypotension drugs: Also known as blood pressure medicine. Diuretics: Also known as water pills. Sedatives: Sleeping pills. What can you do? Check with your physician if the drug you are taking can be changed or the dosage adjusted. It is not recommended to stop taking any prescribed medication without consulting with your doctor. For those who cannot stop medications, there are alternatives to relieve dry mouth: • Chew sugar-free gum or suck on sugar-free hard candies to stimulate the flow of saliva. • Limit your caffeine intake because caffeine can make your mouth dryer. • Don’t use mouthwashes that contain alcohol because they can be drying. • Stop all tobacco use if you smoke or chew tobacco. • Sip water regularly. • Try over-the-counter saliva substitutes, mouthwash, or soft lozenges. Look for products containing xylitol, such as Mouth Kote, Oasis Moisturizing Mouth Spray, Biotene Oral Balance, Salese Soothing, or ACT Total Care Dry Mouth Rinse. The last one also offers protection against tooth decay. • Breathe through your nose, not your mouth. • Add moisture to the air at night with a room humidifier. Dry mouth is not a normal part of aging. So if you think you have dry mouth, see your dentist or physician for help. 12/2014 Ask Dr. Dara, DDS Dr. Dara Gashparova, D.D.S. is located at 1933 W Valley Blvd. Readers with dental questions or concerns should contact her at 626-289-6131, or e-mail daradds@yahoo.com. Hundreds of medications, including many over-the-counter drugs, produce dry mouth as a side effect. Dry mouth is not a normal part of aging. So if you think you have dry mouth, see your dentist or physician for help. Dental insurance about to expire? This is a friendly reminder that at the end of the year your dental insurance benefits will expire. Now is a good time to see your dentist for a check-up or fi- nally take care of dental treatment that you have been postponing all year long. Remind your friends and family to get the most out of their dental insurance this year as well. 12/2014 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 15B Dining & Entertainment | What’s Happening for Food & Fun Restaurant Spotlight Located directly next to each other at 410 W. Main St., Al’s Beef and Nancy’s Pizza have their own unique processes for making Italian beef sandwiches and cooking pizzas. Al’s Italian Beef, Nancy’s Pizza are newest additions to Main Street B Y S ARAH G REAR Al’s Italian Beef and Nancy’s Pizza are celebrating opening their two new locations on Main Street, located next to each other. Al’s Beef is serving delicious Chicago-style sandwiches, sausages, and hamburgers to the community. Nancy’s Pizza specializes in Chicago deep dish pizza and salads and pastas. With close to 45 locations throughout Illinois, Nevada, Texas, California, and Georgia, this is their first restaurant in Los Angeles County. “Many of our ingredients are imported from Chicago to maintain that authentic Mid-West flavor,” said Director of Operations David Walia. “We pride ourselves on bringing new flavors to the City of Alhambra.” Al’s Italian Beef serves a signature seasoned sandwich with 19 different spices and celery used to marinate the thinly sliced beef served on French bread. The tender meat is leaned by removing the fat up to 97%, and gravy is collected as the meat cooks. “The sandwich is topped with your choice of sweet bell pepper or spicy pepper soaked in oil for three days,” said Mr. Walia. The sandwich can be paired with their loaded potato fries, which comes with bacon, onions, cheese, and sour cream on the side. In a separate kitchen located directly next to Al’s Beef is Nancy’s Pizza, with its own unique process for cooking pizzas. With a variety of options, they serve the soft and delicate Neapolitan pizza that is made with simple ingredients all the way to the robust and full-flavored stuffed pizza. “Stuffed pizza is completely different and something new in Alhambra,” said General Manager Michele Galifi. “It comes with sauce on top, cheese and toppings inside, and two layers of crust like a pie. The flavor is like lasagna melting in your mouth.” Another popular menu item is the wings that are prepared from raw meat, never frozen, and baked to lock in the flavor. With a spacious 2,800-squarefoot restaurant with large TVs lining the restaurant walls, it’s the perfect place to watch a game and eat with friends. They Sauteed shrimp paired with fresh spinach in pink alfredo sauce. also offer catering for large parties on-site or off-site for local events. Nancy’s Pizza has been open since 1971 and was started by Italian immigrants Nancy and Rocco Palese in Chicago under a different name called Guy’s Pizza. Al’s Italian Beef has been open since 1938. The restaurant was originCONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE Operating hours, Web sites Lunch specials are available at both Al’s Italian Beef and Nancy’s Pizza. They are open from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 410 W. Main St. The phone number is 626872-0755. Find each of their Web sites at www.alsbeef.com and www.nancyspizza.com. Like their Face-book pages www.facebook.com/alsbeef and www.facebook.com/nancyspizza, and follow them on Twitter @alsitalianbeef and @nancyspizza. PAGE 16B DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 Expires 12-31-14 Some of the Al’s Beef and Nancy’s Pizza team of more than 40 employees. The friendly servers and line cooks look forward to serving the Alhambra community. Expires 12-31-14 Al’s Italian Beef, Nancy’s Pizza open side-by-side on Main St. FROM PAGE 15B ally opened in Chicago by Al Ferrari, his sister, his brother-in-law Frances, and Chris Pacelli, Sr. “The Italian beef sandwich and stuffed pizza flavors are something that we feel was missing in Alhambra until we opened on Main Street,” said Mr. Walia. “The full flavors of our foods speak for themselves.” “We invite the community to visit, and we hope to be a new place for local families and high school students to visit,” said Ms. Galifi. “It’s a safe environment for them to come to hang out.” Dip’s Grill fetes Halloween TWOHEY’S RESTAURANT 1224 N. Atlantic Blvd. • Alhambra, CA 91801 (626) 284-7387 • www.twoheys.com Dip’s Grill, 39 W. Main St., Alhambra, hosted a costume contest on Halloween. First place winners were Kristine Tieu and friends, who won a $100 dining credit to Dip’s. Second place was Anna Cao and friend, who won a $50 dining credit. Third place was Jacky Nhan, who won a $30 dining credit. Fourth place was Kyle Chang, who won a $20 dining credit. 12/2014 DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 17B Downtown Alhambra jumps on Saturday nights Two for the Show B Y M ICHAEL C ARVAINES Enjoy great music every Saturday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. at the Rick’s Main Street Café stage, 132 W. Main St., in Downtown Alhambra, brought to you by Marini Music and Rick’s: Dec. 6: MOVIE REVIEWS Looking at new sci-fi epic Interstellar, morality exploration Nightcrawler B Y M ICHAEL C ARVAINES Two major movies hit theaters in early November: one otherworldly and metaphysical, and the other a modern Los Angeles critique. Interstellar is the new sci-fi epic directed by Christopher Nolan, best known for The Dark Knight trilogy and Inception. His skillful talents are on display again in this fascinating spectacle about big ideas, as well as old-fashioned romantic notions of love and family. Matthew McConaughey stars as Cooper, a near-future farmer whose piloting experience gives him the opportunity to lead mankind’s last hope into space. His mission: to find a habitable world for humans, as the Earth is quickly turning into a barren wasteland. The movie’s first hour is set on Earth, but the remaining two hours are a visual journey through a wormhole into a distant galaxy full of ice, water, and mystery. It’s a thrilling ride, with beautiful visuals and touching moments as Cooper worries if he’ll ever see his family again. Interstellar covers a lot of space, and not all the particles add up to a coherent whole. The style and effects recall 2001: A Space Odyssey, only without the sense of mystery. Ultimately the movie is about a father and daughter. Their emotion is as simple as everyday problems of parenting and loss. Interstellar is neither an action movie, nor a straightforward drama, but it is impressive and worth checking out on a really big screen. Nightcrawler is a brutal dissection of 21st century morals, and how they’re influenced by local news. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal as a Los Angeles videographer of accidents and crime, he redefines creepy as Lou Bloom. It’s a phenomenal performance, and Mr. Gyllenhaal has never been better - or scarier. His character begins as an out of work, petty thief, but soon decides that a videojournalist career is his calling. It’s fascinating to watch him learn the bare minimum and quickly transform into a success. Of course, success is a relative term. He also lacks any sense of right and wrong, and doesn’t care much for the law. To help battle his demons, Lou confronts the local news director played by Rene Russo. Leading the city’s least watched news broadcast, her character’s professional ethics are also a blurry signal. She gives him the only lesson he needs when she sums up her industry with the movie’s best rallying cry: “Think about our newscast as a screaming woman running down the street with her throat cut.” The movie is a scathing portrait of local news, reminiscent of such classic films as Network and Broadcast News. But this is more about the individual. Who’s feeding whom? Who needs whom? It’s a compelling debate, and Nightcrawler does an excellent job moderating the discussion. Swingin’ 8 Balls - rock-a-billy and ’50s Dec. 13: J.E.S. - classic rock Dec. 20: Jamie Steele & Pacific Electric - ’60s and country Dec. 27: The Blues Buzzards - R&B For more information, contact Marini Music at 626-289-0241. 2505 W. Valley Blvd • Alhambra CA 91803 Join Us for Our Daily Specials Monday: Fajita Night 2 for $20 • Taco Tuesday • Margarita Wednesdays We now deliver in Alhambra from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. Monday Bucket Night 4 - 10 p.m. Happy Hour Tues. - Fri. 4 - 7 p.m. 6 bottles imported or Domestic Beer 15% off all appetizers $3 DRAFT BEER 15% off all appetizers Alhambra resident Michael Carvaines is a Real Estate Agent with Dilbeck Real Estate. He can be reached at (323) 697-0704 or michael.carvaines@dilbeck.com. Angeles Chorale to present An American Christmas CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5B Other carols by Burt on the program include Caroling, Caroling; All on a Christmas Morning; and We’ll Dress the House. “Alfred Burt is so American,” says Sutton. “How could we not include him in a program celebrating the contribution of American composers to sacred holiday music?” Those attending “An American Christmas” will also hear Daniel Pinkham’s Christmas Cantata, Randol Alan Bass’s Gloria, Handel’s epic Hallelujah Chorus from The Messiah and O Magnum Mysterium by Morten Lauridsen. The chorale will dedicate the performance of the latter work to the late Paul Salamunovich, Artistic Director of the L.A. Master Chorale, because he was so instrumental in the work’s genesis. “So few of the traditional, sacred carols we sing are American,” said Mr. Sutton. “And, when you think about it, this makes sense. We are a nation of immigrants so, of course, we would cherish those carols from back home. But there is also this wonderful treasure trove of music that is uniquely American. Music of joy and peace and extraordinary beauty...with all the grandeur that brass, organ, and percussion provide.” Those who feel a Christmas concert is not complete without the car- ols most closely associated with the holiday, however, will not leave disappointed. The program also includes A Christmas Garland by Conrad Susa, which includes sections where audience members are invited to sing along. Lunch Buffet - $7.99 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Monday - Friday Join Us for Sunday Champagne Brunch 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. $14.99 Chonito’s Mexican Restaurant 2505 W. Valley Blvd • Alhambra CA 91803 • 626-284-8601 • http://chonitos.com/ PAGE 18B DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 Restaurant Spotlight Hot Red Bus #1 in two contests Fish & Chips Sage and Sonny Sehmi own the Hot Red Bus, which serves “the best fish & chips this side of the pond.” Hot Red Bus, 31 E. Main St., Alhambra, recently won “Best British-Style Fish & Chips Los Angeles 2014” in L.A. Weekly’s Best of 2014 edition and “Best Fish & Chips” in the cityvoter.com L.A. Hot List contest. Hot Red Bus opened in late 2012 and is growing in popularity with local residents as well as attracting customers from other areas. Not just a chip shop, Hot Red Bus offers Indian-inspired fare popular in the English Midlands. Replicating what someone might get walking into a Brit-Indian eatery there, the “Bus” adds its own twist on the menu that sets the restaurant apart from other British establishments in Southern California. “You can choose either swai or the traditional cod for your fish, which is dipped in a secret recipe batter, fried and served atop perfectly fried Kennebec chips,” said Jim Thurman, L.A. Weekly. “Since the recent acquisition of a liquor license, you also can swig British beers with your meal. Assorted Brit pop is also available.” Owner Sonny Sehmi, an Alhambra resident of Brit and Indian background, found California cuisine lacking in one crucial area: no fish and chips. “Sonny noticed that every time we tried to get fish and chips here, he couldn’t find any flavors that were close to home,” said co-owner Sage Sehmi. “The Hot Red Bus is a British Indian chip shop Hot Red Bus owner Sonny Sehmi found California cuisine lacking in one crucial area: no fish and chips. with a Californian twist,” said Los Angeles Hot List. “Serving the best Fish & Chips this side of the pond along with Indian Balti bowls, straight outta Birmingham, England, and served nowhere else in America, Samosa rolls, and Doner. Funky, casual, cozy, and as authentic as geographically possible.” For more information, contact Hot Red Bus at 626576-2877, or view the Web site at hotredbus.com. Mosaic Lizard Theater presents Spiderman Christmas Dec. 12-28 Middle East Restaurant Mosaic Lizard Theater is celebrating the holiday season with “Spiderman Christmas,” a sequel to Cameron Parker’s hilarious satire, Spiderman Turn on the Light! It is a new adventure based on the popular comic book character and almost every Christmas movie ever made. In the vein of It’s A Wonderful Life, Peter Parker must go on an interdimensional journey to a world where Spiderman doesn’t exist in order to save Christmas and New York City from the diaboli- Cameron Parker and Sergio Venegas reprise their roles from “Spiderman cal Doctor Doom. Turn on the Light” in “Spiderman Christmas.” The play is written by Cameron Parker and stars many actors from the duction. Mosaic Lizard Theater apologizes for this original cast, plus a few new Lizards from Pacific inconvenience. Conservatory of Performing Arts. Parker’s Tickets are $15. Students and seniors are $12. Spiderman Christmas is a hilarious fun filled Please RSVP by phoning 626-202-4859. show that will add cheer to the holiday season. Mosaic Lizard Theater is located at 112 W. The play is directed by Main St., Alhambra. The Web site is Cameron Rose and Cameron www.lizardtheater.com. Parker. Parking is located behind the theater, in the The show runs from Dec. 12 parking structure on South First Street, and in to Dec 28, Fridays, Saturdays, the new Mosaic Lizard parking structure on North and Sundays at 8 p.m. There First Street. will be no matinees for this pro- BUY ANY ENTREE & GET ONE FREE with the purchase of two beverages second entree must be equal or lesser value up to $9.00 This offer limited to one person per group, party or table seating, regardless of separate checks. Not valid on holidays. Offer valid when presented with this ad coupon. Special offer valid only at Always Open 369 Main St. Alhambra Phone 626-281-6701 Banquet Room Available Not valid with 2-4-6-8 Value Menu or Complete Skillet Meals or any other offer or discount. Offer expires 12-31-2014. KIDS EAT FREE MON. – FRI. 4 PM – 10 PM (see store for detail) Clip these Valuable Coupons Save Momey on Meals 12/2014 AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 19B Automotive News | Auto Dealers, Repairs, Services Alhambra Chrysler-Dodge-Jeep-Ram under new management This past August, Alhambra Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram got a new management team. The dealership continues to offer a wide selection of cars to fit the needs of the community. With sports utility vehicles, convertibles, and full-sized trucks, they have all car buying and repair needs under one roof. Test drive their top-selling vehicles at the Alhambra showroom, located at 1100 W. Main St., at Atlantic. “With our new ownership bringing great promotions to the table, and the fact that we have four brands under one roof, we look forward to making sure the community’s car buying needs are met,” said General Manager Robert Horacio. There are more than 300 cars in the Alhambra Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram fleet featuring some of the more popular vehicles like the Cherokee and Grand Cherokees, Challengers and Chargers, and the Dodge Dart. “With our new ownership bringing great promotions to the table, and the fact that we have four brands under one roof, we look forward to making sure the community’s car buying needs are met,” said General Manager Robert Horacio. Employees serve the community in Spanish and Chinese. The Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram team takes pride in the customer service culture they are develop- ing. From finance to sales, and their full service repair, each department works hard to provide top notch services to the community. The dealership is gearing up for the “Big Finish” end of the year promotion to clear out their 2014 stock from now until the end of December. “We would like to invite everyone to visit the all new Alhambra Chrysler Dodge Jeep and Ram,” said Mr. Horacio. “We have even better deals and better commitment to the community with our new team.” Alhambra Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram’s sales business hours are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sunday. The phone number is 888-720-9710. Weekly offers and promotions can be found online at www.alhambracdjr.com, follow them on Twitter @alhambracdjr , and like them on Facebook. New 2015 Chrysler 300: return of the big, bold American sedan Introduced at the L.A. Auto Show on Nov. 19, the new 2015 Chrysler 300 highlights six decades of ambitious American ingenuity through iconic design proportions inspired by historic 1955 and 2005 models – world-class quality, materials and refinement, best-in-class V-6 highway fuel economy, plus segment-exclusive innovations – all at the same $31,395 starting price as its predecessor. Among its many features are: • New Chrysler 300 sedan’s iconic and unmistakable exterior proportions are now crafted with even more sculptural and expressive style for 2015, with a bolder “face of Chrysler” front grille, signature LED lighting, unique finishes and new wheel designs. • New Chrysler 300C Platinum model features quilted Nappa leather, hand-sanded wood, ultra-premium Poltrona Frau leather-wrapped instrument panel and console, plus platinum-chrome exterior details and 20-inch wheels – all at an attainable value. • All-new interior design elements include a standard 7-inch full-color driver information display (DID) and class-exclusive electronic rotary transmission shifter, plus Chrysler brand’s new three-spoke steering wheel with larger vehicle controls and available die-cast paddle shifters. • Class-exclusive TorqueFlite eight-speed automatic transmission, now standard on every model, balances V-8 performance with segment-leading 31 mpg highway fuel efficiency. Introduced at the L.A. Auto Show on Nov. 19, the Chrysler 300 offers a best-in-class V-6 highway fuel economy with 3.6-liter Pentastar engine. PAGE 20B AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 Mazda reveals four exciting new vehicles at 2014 L.A. Auto Show In a press conference on the floor of the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov. 19, Mazda Motor Corporation revealed the all-new 2016 Mazda CX-3 compact crossover SUV to the world. Sharing the spotlight with the CX-3 on stage was the 2016 Mazda MX-5 Miata, the fourth generation of the world’s best-selling roadster, as well as updated and revised models of the Mazda6 midsize sedan and CX-5 crossover SUV. “Mazda is in a commanding position in the U.S. right now, outpacing a rapidly recovering auto industry,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO of Irvine, Calif.-based Mazda North American Operations. “Whether it’s the Mazda3, Mazda6 or CX-5, sales results and industry accolades allow me to say that if you think there’s a better vehicle in these segments than these cars, then you’re wrong. And whether we look to breaking ground in new segments with the all-new CX-3 or reinforcing our sports car credentials with the all-new MX-5 Miata, there’s no denying that these are very good times indeed for Mazda.” The 2016 Mazda CX-3 complements the Mazda lineup, as it perfectly hits the target in a rapidly growing segment in the industry. The all-new compact crossover SUV offers all the essentials young urbanites are looking for in a car: a design of overwhelming quality and style, packaging developed solely with their needs in mind, and the responsive driving feel that is a hallmark of every Mazda. Powered by a SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter gasoline engine in North America, CX-3 Shop for a new car in Alhambra and get a great deal The Alhambra Chamber of Commerce salutes Alhambra Auto Row Browning Mazda 1200 W. Main St. 626-576-2800 New Century BMW 1139 W. Main St. 626-570-8444 Alhambra Nissan 726 E. Main St. 626-289-6161 Sierra Acura 1700 W. Main St. Alhambra 626-284-8533 Alhambra • Chrysler, Dodge • Jeep • Ram 1100 W. Main St. 626-537-2400 Volkswagen Alhambra 1811 W. Main St. 866-426-2915 Goudy Honda 1400 W. Main St. 626-576-1114 Bob Wondries Ford 400 S. Atlantic Blvd. 626-289-3591 Kia of Alhambra 1247 W. Main St. 626-289-0000 Wondries Toyota 1543 W. Main St. 626-289-8000 will be equipped with an automatic transmission with either front- or all-wheeldrive. Output details and specifications will be revealed closer to launch, in summer 2015. The 2016 MX-5 Miata is the latest iteration of the world’s best-selling two-seat roadster, with more than 930,000 sold globally and nearly 40% of those in the U.S. After making its global debut in three cities around the globe simultaneously in early September, it is making its North American auto show debut in Los Angeles. Powered by specially turned SKYACTIV-G 2.0-liter engine, MX-5 is every bit the real sportscar. With a curb weight approximately 200 pounds lighter than the outgoing model, the new MX-5 will perform like enthusiasts and weekendracers alike would expect, a true embodiment of the “lightweight sports” Jinba Ittai (literally “horse and rider as one”) ethos. Also making their global debuts during the announcements made during the show were revised versions of the 2016 Mazda6 midsize sedan and the 2016 CX5 crossover SUV. Both vehicles feature updated interior and exterior styling, the sort of updates you would expect in vehicles either growing long in the tooth or not selling well. Neither of those accurately describe these two vehicles however, as both are exceeding previous years’ sales numbers by more than 25%, as well as winning awards and accolades on a regular basis. Both Mazda6 and CX-5 see extensive updates to the interior, highlighted by the addition of Mazda’s proprietary in-car infotainment system, Mazda Connect. Browning Mazda of Alhambra Invites you to see the new Mazda3 2014 Car and Driver Top Choice Vehicle Visit our shopper-friendly dealership at 1200 West Main Street Alhambra, CA 91801 Check out our entire stock and featured specials at The Chamber of Commerce urges all residents to shop locally for their new or used cars and trucks. www.AlhambraMazda.com KEEP ALHAMBRA GREEN! Sales: 877-972-3444 • Service: 877-972-4111 • Parts: 877-972-3555 12/2014 AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 21B On 25th anniversary, Ford Explorer announces more technology Building on 25 years of innovation and sales leadership, a new Explorer is on its way, with even more smart technology, Ford announced a new 2.3-liter EcoBoost® engine and an all-new Platinum series when the new Ford Explorer goes on sale next summer. The new Explorer, revealed Nov. 19 at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, builds on the strength and leadership of Ford’s new vehicle lineup – the freshest in the industry – and provides SUV customers even more versatility, capability, smart technology and efficiency. “Explorer helped define how the world thinks about SUVs,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president and chief technical officer, Global Product Development. “Explorer is the centerpiece of Ford’s global utility vehicle lineup because it delivers an ideal combination of form and function. And with 7 million already sold, nearly everyone has an Explorer story.” Introduced as a 1991 model, Explorer featured generous interior space customers were looking for, and was engineered specifically for people seeking adventure for their families and a way to express their individuality. For a quarter century, Explorer has been America’s best-selling SUV. Ford Explorer is built in North America at Chicago Assembly Plant, as well as in Venezuela and now, Russia. It is sold in more than 100 markets across the globe. Ford expects to export 56,000 Explorers from the United States this year alone. “Customers love Explorer, and expect this SUV to lead the way in innovation, performance and fun,” said Arie Groeneveld, chief engineer for the new Explorer. “It’s a tall order, but we’re aim- The New Ford Explorer made its global debut at Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov. 19, with even more smart technology, available 2.3-liter EcoBoost® four-cylinder engine and all-new Platinum series ing to build the best SUV in the world.” More innovation for new adventures Even more smart technology – that’s what customers will get with the new Ford Explorer. It offers more technologies than previous models – features that enhance the driving experience. These include: • Front and rear cameras with washers: Both front and rear cameras have wide-angle lenses and come equipped with a washer – an industry-first. • Enhanced active park assist with perpendicular park assist, park-out assist and semi-automatic parallel parking: The system uses ultrasonic sensors and electric power-assisted steering to help drivers with parallel parking and perpendicular parking maneuvers. Enhanced active park assist now includes park-out assist to help a driver pull out of parallel parking spots. The system controls the steering wheel, while the driver operates the accelerator and brake pedals, and shifts the vehicle into gear. • Smart-charging USB ports throughout: Located in the front and rear of the vehicle are USB ports to charge smart devices. • Hands-free liftgate: A customer need only kick his or her leg below the center of the rear bumper to unlock and raise the liftgate. • Industry-exclusive 500-watt Sony Audio System: Explorer Platinum will be the first Ford vehicle to get an all-new 500- watt Sony Audio System with Live Acoustics™ and Clear Phase™ technology. • Active Grille Shutters: Upper and lower fascia openings close at highway speeds to reduce drag. At low speeds, the shutters open to deliver airflow to cool the powertrain. Shutters allow for larger front end openings to cool the engine while reducing drag. • Air curtains: Standard air curtains create a high-pressure region of air that impacts the outer surface of the wheels and tires. The result is airflow held close to the vehicle body, minimizing drag These current Explorer features provide a foundation for innovations on the new model: • Adaptive cruise control and collision warning with brake support: Uses radar to detect moving vehicles directly ahead and changes the cruising speed if necessary. • Lane-keeping system: The system automatically detects left- and right-hand road lane markings using the front camera system. A vibration in the steering wheel alerts the driver if the vehicle begins to drift out of the lane. The system can also provide steering torque to help guide the vehicle back into the lane if needed. • Blind Spot Information System: BLIS® uses radar to trigger a warning when another motorist is in the driver’s blind spot. • Cross-traffic alert: Uses radar to help alert drivers to oncoming traffic when backing out of a parking space. • Auto high-beams: Automatic highbeams use windshield-mounted cameras to automatically switch between highCONTINUED ON PAGE 24B Nov. Bob Wondries Ford 400 S. Atlantic Blvd. WE SPEAK YOUR Alhambra LANGUAGE – SPANISH, CHINESE, VIETNAMESE 626.289.3591 AUTHORIZED FORD-LINCOLN-MERCURY REPAIR AND PARTS FACILITY SERVICE DEPT. SALES, PARTS and SERVICE OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 1-866-377-1807 All advertised prices are in addition to government fees and taxes, and finance charges, any dealer document preparation charge and any emission testing charges. On approved credit. Photos for illustration purposes only. All prices in this ad expire 12-31-14. PAGE 22B AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 Scion’s iM concept debuts at 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show At the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov. 19, Doug Murtha, vice president of Toyota’s Scion Division introduced the Scion iM concept. This new Scion concept is a vehicle that’s ready for adventure. With versatility, sporty handling and a captivating design, it’s ready for whatever fun comes its way. Mr. Murtha defined the new iM concept with the I standing for Individuality, Intrigue and a good fit for customers’ Income and with the M standing for Modern, Multifaceted, and Magnetic. The iM Concept marries sleek styling with the versatility of a five-door hatchback for those who want the freedom to load up their car with friends and gear and escape their daily routines. Mr. Murtha said Scion’s buyers want something comfortable, technologically advanced, with great features and styling moving forward Gas Misers for the 21st Century FLEET PRICE TO THE PUBLIC* that doesn’t look like everything else on the road. After revealing the iM Concept car at the Los Angeles Auto Show, Scion announced that a production version of the versatile five-door compact hatchback will be coming to dealerships in 2015. Fans will get a first look at the road-ready, sporty ride – and another new Scion model – at the New York International Auto Show in April. “The two models we’re debuting in New York next spring are just the beginning for Scion,” said Scion Vice President Doug Murtha. “We plan to bring three new products in three years to our showrooms, offering a variety of exciting options for current and new Scion customers.” As a test laboratory for Toyota, Scion attracts those with an independent spirit and desire to stand apart from the crowd. But many of today’s consumers between 18-34 years old also value a degree of practicality to support their self-reliance and more mobile lifestyles. Faced with greater independence and less disposable income, they value fun and sensibility in a vehicle choice. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE Alhambra’s Auto Row News Holiday happenings with Alhambra’s Auto Row Alhambra’s Auto Row is celebrating the holiday season by inviting the community to test drive their high quality vehicles. With friendly staff, holiday promotions, and convenient hours, Alhambra’s auto community is one of the best in the San Gabriel Valley. New car models are available at several of the dealerships, and each auto business is celebrating the holiday season with its own festive events. Head over for a test drive, and take advantage of their special offers this holiday season. $ 199+tax special lease with $ 999 due at lease inception plus dmv, doc, and sales tax. Lease is for 36 month with 12k miles annually on model 1201. Starting MSRP at $18,950 Estimated mpg: 53 city / 46 hwy SCION IQ iQ THEREFORE i AM $ 199+tax special lease with $ 3129 due at lease inception plus dmv, doc, and sales tax. Lease is for 36 month with 12k miles annually on model 66242. Don’t let size fool you, this little car is loaded with big features, all within a modern, intelligent design. *Contact Mgrs Paul Luong or Quang Huyhn Direct line 626-414-2528 or 626-414-2418 Email: Paull@wondriestoyota.com Email: Quangh@wondriestoyota.com Estimated mpg: 36 city / 37 highway Wondries Toyota/Scion 1543 W. Main St. • Al hambra • 626.289.8000 visit our Web site: www.wondriestoyota.com Get complimentary Toyota Care when you buy or lease a new Toyota Bob Wondries Ford hosted its annual Halloween costume contest at the dealership. There were more than 25 employees who dressed up. There were cash prizes, and every employee in a costume got movie tickets. 400 S. Atlantic Blvd. • Alhambra 91801 • 626-289-3591 • www.bobwondriesford.com Just in time for the holidays, Volkswagen Alhambra is offering the eGolf with all-electric power and retaining much of the driving charm of its gas and diesel VW Golf cohorts, thanks to a firm suspension and taut handling. A 115-hp electric motor and lithiumion battery give the e-Golf a range of 70 to 90 miles, while adjustable driving and regenerative braking modes help boost range in the most aggressive settings. An optional 240-volt charger drops charge time to less than four hours. The e-Golf is available in California and 10 other markets. 1811 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-407-0500 • www.vwalhambra.com Goudy Honda announced the Honda Fit is shortlisted for the North American Car and Truck of the Year. The 10 cars nominated will be whittled down to three finalists in time for the holidays, and the winner will be announced at the 2015 North American International Auto Show in Detroit in January. 1400 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-576-1114 • www.goudyhonda.com Browning Mazda of Alhambra is excited to bring the CX-3 to Alhambra in time for the holidays. With the KODO Soul of Motion design language and the SkyActiv technology, the all-new CX-3 will be unveiled at the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show. A first design sketch of the compact SUV is online. 1200 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-576-2800 • www.browningmazda.com/ Alhambra Chrysler-Dodge-JeepRam announced that this past August they received a new management team. The dealership continues to offer the widest selection of cars to fit the needs of the community. From sports utility vehicles to convertibles and full-sized trucks, they have all car buying and repair needs under one roof. Test drive their top-selling vehicles at the Alhambra showroom. 1100 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-308-4500 • www.alhambracdjr.com 12/2014 AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 2015 E-Golf, will be arriving soon. 2015 Volkswagen Golf GTI has arrived. Golf GTI, the seventh-generation version of Volkswagen’s best-selling car is bigger, lighter, more fuel-efficient, and even more versatile. Its new 1.8-liter TSI® engine gets 20% improvement in manufacturer estimated highway fuel economy over outgoing Golf. New VW Golf TDI S model reduces Clean Diesel entry pricing by more than $3,000. The manual transmission TDI model’s EPA estimated highway fuel economy is now rated at 46 mpg, an improvement of 4 mpg. Volkswagen Golf family is named Motor Trend 2015 Car of the Year Motor Trend, one of the world’s premier automotive authorities, today named the Volkswagen Golf family — Golf 1.8T, Golf TDI® Clean Diesel, Golf GTI and e-Golf models — as the 2015 Motor Trend Car of the Year. “VW floored our judges by reimagining the seventh generation Golf for nearly every need and want,” said Motor Trend Editor-in-Chief Ed Loh. “From the value-laden Golf 1.8T and high-MPG Golf TDI to the legendary hot hatch GTI and all-electric e-Golf, there truly is a Golf for everyone.” The 2015 Motor Trend Car of the Year award was presented to Michael Horn, president and CEO, Volkswagen of America, during an announcement, at the L.A. Auto Show, Nov. 19. “Volkswagen is extremely proud to receive this prestigious award,” said Horn. “This recognition from Motor Trend is a testament to the versatility of the Golf family and the quality and value these cars offer in the compact hatchback segment.” Motor Trend’s Car of the Year program is open to any all-new or substantially upgraded 2015 automobile. Rather than being compared against one another, contending vehicles are first put through Motor Trend’s full battery of performance tests to measure acceleration, braking, and limit handling. About Motor Trend Motor Trend®, a media brand of The Enthusiast Network, was founded in 1949 and is internationally recognized as one of the leading brands in the automotive category. The Motor Trend brand is composed of Motor Trend’ magazine; the award-winning Web site MotorTrend.com; Motor Trend’ Auto Shows; Motor Trend’ Audio; Motor Trend’ en Espanol; Motor Trend India; and the renowned Motor Trend’ Car of the Year, SUV of the Year, Truck of the Year, and Best Driver’s Car awards programs. At the 2014 Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov. 19, Doug Murtha, vice president of Toyota’s Scion Division introduced the Scion iM concept. Scion introduces iM concept car CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE The iM Concept is a hatchback that earns its name from characteristics aimed at this evolving audience. Its captivating styling and custom-blended “Incrediblue” paint are complemented by matte silver and gunmetal accents. The iM Concept communicates its sporty handling and racing inspiration through a wide stance and low ride height for a grounded appearance. It features front and rear bumper overhangs that create dynamic surfaces, as well as geometric grille inserts, deep air intakes and fog lights. Large 19-inch forged alloy wheels sit flush with the body while vented rotors with 4piston front calipers work with the adjustable-height racing suspension. Urban drivers can expect the iM Concept to meet the needs of city streets with excellent fuel efficiency, sporty handling and easy parking. Details on the production version’s transmission, engine, technology and other details will be available in 2015. Pricing information will also be available next year, but Scion anticipates that a price under $20,000 could make this car enticing to youthful customers. PAGE 23B happy holidays PAGE 24B AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 Acura to launch more powerful, technologically advanced ILX Sport Sedan At the Los Angeles Auto Show, Nov. 20, Acura took the wraps off its restyled, reengineered and reborn 2016 ILX sports sedan today, launching at Acura dealerships nationwide in early 2015. The 2016 Acura ILX delivers more strongly than ever before on its mission as the gateway to the Acura lineup with a major injection of Acura performance DNA, courtesy of its new 201-horsepower, directedinjected i-VTEC engine and 8-speed dualclutch transmission for all models, the same advanced engine and transmission combination that powers the justlaunched TLX. The 2016 ILX boasts dynamic new front and rear styling cues, standard Jewel EyeTM LED headlights, upgraded inte- A rior materials, optional upsized wheels and tires, enhanced connectivity, and a host of new premium features and technologies, along with significant improvements to cabin quietness, sporty handling and collision safety. The 2016 ILX also expands customer choice with six available grades vs. the previous three, including the standard ILX, the ILX with Premium Package, and the line-topping ILX Technology Plus Package. In addition, an all-new A-SPEC package, available with the Premium and Technology packages, adds sporty style, and all models can now be equipped with AcuraWatch™, the most advanced suite of safety and driver assistive technologies in the class. The ILX AcuraWatch suite Open 7 days a week 626-282-5666 A lhambra CAR WASH ATLANTIC and MAIN Full Service Polish Dept. $ 11.99 FULL SERVICE WASH $ 2 OFF ANY CAR WASH PACKAGE Alhambra Car Wash 704 W. Main Street, Alhambra, CA 91801 includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, Road Departure Mitigation and enhanced Collision Mitigation Braking System™ with pedestrian sensing capability. “Top to bottom, from dynamic design to luxury features, and leading-edge safety technology to sport sedan athleticism and sophistication, ILX is now a true gateway to Acura’s performance luxury sedans,” said Michael Accavitti, senior vice president and general manager for the Acura division. “ILX was always a great idea. Now it’s a great idea fulfilled—a luxury vehicle for the next generation.” New Powertrain: All 2016 ILX models will be powered by a 2.4-liter, 16-valve, direct-injected DOHC i-VTEC engine with peak output of 201-horsepower at 6,800 rpm and 180 lb.-ft. of torque at 3,600 rpm, up 51 horsepower and 40 lb.ft. compared to the outgoing 2.0-liter engine. The new engine is mated to an 8speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) with torque converter and paddle-controlled Sequential Sport Shift. It’s the most advanced transmission in its competitive set, delivering incredibly quick, crisp and intuitive gear changes, including rev-matching down shifts, to achieve outstanding response and sporting performance with top-class fuel efficiency. The world’s first DCT with a torque converter, Acura’s 8-speed DCT provides off-the-line torque multiplication for smoother, more powerful launches that other DCTs cannot match. New Premium Features and AcuraWatch™: In addition to the new powertrain and extensive interior and exterior upgrades, the 2016 ILX also ups the ante for luxury, connectivity and technological sophistication. Premium and above grades get a new two-position driver’s seat memory function, a 4-way power passenger seat, Homelink remote, and Acura’s On-Demand Multi-Use Display (ODMD) with upper 8-inch display screen and lower 7inch touchscreen. The evolved touchscreen connectivity and media sys- tem receives more than 50 design changes to enhance intuitive operation and functionality. Also available for the first time on the Premium grade is a new tethered navigation system powered by the user’s compatible iPhone and data plan via the AcuraLink navigation app. Premium and above models also get Acura’s Blind Spot Information and Rear Cross Traffic Monitor along with enhanced audio options, including SiruisXM radio, AHA radio and HD radio. The Tech Plus grade with AcuraWatch™ and embedded Acura Navigation add a color Multi-information Display (MID) between the tachometer and speedometer, Siri Eyes Free and ELS premium audio system along with the latest generation of Acura Link connected car technology. All ILX models can be equipped with the AcuraWatch™ suite of advanced safety and driver-assistive technologies, the most advanced system of its kind in the competitive set. AcuraWatch™ includes Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Keeping Assist System, a Multi-View Rear Camera with Dynamic Guidelines, as well as Road Departure Mitigation and an enhanced Collision Mitigation Braking System™ (including Forward Collision Warning) with sensor fusion technology that enables new capabilities including pedestrian sensing. Body, Chassis and Safety Enhancements (The ILX body and chassis benefit from significant engineering changes that advance collision safety, increase body rigidity, improve cabin quietness and enhance sporty handling performance. Using Acura’s next-generation Advanced Compatibility Engineering™ (ACE™) body structure, the 2016 ILX is designed to more efficiently absorb and disperse the energy in a frontal collision and targets a Good rating in the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) smalloverlap frontal crash test and an overall Top Safety Pick+ IIHS crash safety rating. Ford Explorer reaches 25th anniversary CONTINUED FROM PAGE 21B beam and low-beam settings when oncoming traffic is detected. • Inflatable rear safety belts: Inflatable rear safety belts, introduced on 2011 Explorer as an industry-first, deploy an airbag over the torso and shoulder of an outboard passenger to help distribute crash forces over up to five times more area than a traditional safety belt. Spreading forces over a larger area helps reduce pressure on a passenger’s chest, and helps control head and neck motion. All-new EcoBoost engine (Capability – that’s what customers will get even more of with the new Explorer, thanks to an available 2.3-liter EcoBoost four-cylinder engine delivering at least 270 horsepower and at least 300 lb.-ft. of torque. The 2.3-liter EcoBoost is available on the base, XLT and Limited series. The new powerplant is expected to give customers 12.5% more horsepower and 11% more torque over the current 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. It improves highway passing times 10%. 4 Wheel Computerized Wheel Alignment & Suspension Repair Extended Service Hours Monday – Thursday 7 AM – 8 PM 1700 West Main St. Alhambra, CA www.sierraacura.com *While supplies last REAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014 PAGE 25B Real Estate News | Residential, Commercial, Loans Good news for buyers B Y MICHAEL C ARVAINES Good news for buyers: all signs in October pointed to a more friendly market. Prices dipped slightly as inventory rose, making it very enticing for home buyers to start hunting for a great deal. This is the first time in several months that the market has been this buyer-favored. In October 2014, 15 single-family homes were sold in Alhambra, down slightly from 16 in October of 2013. The median home price, however, dropped all the way to $490,000. This is the first time that figure has been below $500,000 in several months. Home owners shouldn’t panic, since a closer inspection reveals why that number is low. Alhambra saw a number of smaller houses sold this month, including three homes under 1,000 square feet, and a total of six homes under 1,200 square feet, thus driving down the median price. Also, the price-per-square-foot remained consistent, reflecting the overall stability. That figure was $405 this October, which is where it’s been for most of 2014. The median number of Days on the Market stayed consistent at 52 days this October, and selling prices remained OCTOBER TRANSACTION SUMMARY October 2014 October 2013 # Homes Sold 15 16 Median Price $490,000 $587,500 # Condos Sold 14 17 Median Price $413,750 $420,000 *Data was obtained from Multi-Regional MLS Alliance and deemed to be reliable. Alhambra resident Michael Carvaines is a Real Estate Agent with Dilbeck Real Estate. He can be reached at 323-697-0704 or michael.carvaines@dilbeck.com. slightly less than the listing prices at an average of 98%. As of Oct. 31, Alhambra had 65 single-family homes for sale on the market - up from the previous month. This figure has been slowly rising every month, as market conditions continue to favor the buyer with more choices. In October, the condo and townhouse market also remained stable, with a slight tilt in the buyer’s favor. A total of 14 were sold this past month - a slight dip from 17 in October 2013. Once again, the selling prices were down from 2013, yet almost the same as the previous few months. The median condo and townhome price was $413,750 in October, down from $420,000 in October 2013. As of Oct. 31, Alhambra had 42 condo and townhome listings. This should also be encour- aging for buyers as that number has slowly risen since the summer. As the surrounding areas experience a similar shift in favor of the buyer, Alhambra remains a solid bargain. With interest rates remaining near record lows, buyers have more reason to embrace Alhambra’s excellent values. For advertising rates and other information, contact Alhambra Chamber of Commerce. 104 S. First St., Alhambra, CA 91801; 626-282-8481 www.alhambrachamber.org. Submit press releases to: djenkins@alhambrachamber.org Innovative business services offered to rescue, assist small, struggling businesses Are you a start up business? A struggling business? Even a well-established business? The Southeast Area Social Services Funding Authority (SASSFA) WorkSource Center has programs that can save time and money. The authority offers paid work experience programs for adults and youth by working with them to find pre-screened, qualified candidates for thier companies. Similarly, the authority has an on-thejob training program that reimburses businesses up to half the salary of a new employee during the time needed to train new employees. For more information, phone Arthur Monreal at 562-6339511, x239. Start-up businesses or a struggling businesses face unique challenges that two tandem programs can meet: Layoff Aversion and Rapid Response. SOLD! SOLD! 282-6121 Could employees benefit from specialized training? Is a company running as efficiently as it could? Does it have a clear business and marketing plan? The Layoff Aversion program can bring people, resources, and institutions to your fingertips that will empower your business to thrive. Phone Martha Acosta at 562-946-2237, x263. If a company finds itself in the position of needing to lay off some of its workforce, Rapid Response is a solution. The authority works closely with a business to set up orientations for employees to empower them to make the transition easier to their next job. The authority can help them with their job search, training, and unemployment insurance. For more information, phone Lindsay Frank at 562633-9511, ext. 228. SOLD! SOLD! 674-1351 DRE# 00465088 Residential real estate Real estate investment Classic California Bungalow located in Pasadena’s Bungalow Heaven, 2 bedroom, 1 bathroom, 1 convertible den, spacious patio, hardwood floors, living room fireplace, and garage. Call Gary for a free market evaluation of your home! calculations and cash flow analysis • Email: gary.frueholz@dilbeck.com • Web: http://gary.frueholz.dilbeck.com Go to www.garysstories.com for Gary’s stories on Alhambra. DILBECK REAL ESTATE • GARY FRUEHOLZ • (626) 318-9436 • PARA SERVICIO EN ESPAÑOL LLAME A MARIA FRUEHOLZ • (626) 318-8095 PAGE 26B REAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA Curiousities of cultural diversity and Realtors CONTINUED FROM P AGE 1B Handling names during a real estate introduction is another example of cultural diversity. In the People’s Republic of China, the full name is preferably used, but the order of the names is reversed from here in the states. If the person being introduced has a last name of Chao, the introduction would arrange the names in this manner; Mr. Chao (last) Fu (middle) Lei (first). This is seen as more formal than saying Mr. Chao. The language of international business is numbers. In this global business world, not just currency, but units of measure become an example of cultural diversity. The majority of the world thinks in terms of the metric system. And it is not just being “politically correct” in using the metric system, rather it is realizing that this is a fundamental difference that tracts relative to cultures. And it is more than just meters, but also hectares instead of acres and kilograms instead of pounds that the sophisticated realtor speaks to. Some cultures place a lower priority on owning a home than the United States. Historic instability and attractive rents have led to the majority of German families renting their homes (53% - quartz.com). And if a German family buys a house, they tend to buy it for life. In America, younger families often follow the approach of purchasing 12/2014 Understanding Real Estate By Gary Frueholz D ILBECK R EAL E STATE Gary Frueholz is a realtor with Dilbeck Real Estate, a past member of the Alhambra Planning Commission, a certified Senior Real Estate Specialist and a Certified International Property Specialist. He can be reached at 626-3189436 or at gary .frueholz@dilbeck.com. See his stories at www.garysstories.com. a “starter home” and then upgrading to larger homes every few years. In America, after a buyer enters into a real estate purchase agreement, there is a period of negotiating repairs, termite work, and adjusting for inconsistent lender appraisals. All of this can lead to effectively renegotiating the purchase price. In Germany, once the buyer signs the contract, the sale becomes final and no further recourse exists for price renegotiation. Americans like to say that time is money and they accordingly transact their real estate at a fast pace. In foreign countries like Japan and China, often a slower tempo results from longer meals together where clients spend time getting to know their representatives and potential business partners in a deal. Handshakes are not taken for granted. The International Association of Protocol Consultants concluded that a handshake with a Latin American should CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE 12/2014 REAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA Wall Street On Main Street What are year-end investment decisions? Year-end investment decisions may sometimes result in substantial tax savings. Tax planning may allow you to control the timing and method by which you report your income and claim your deductions and credits. The basic strategy for year-end planning is both to time your income so that it will be taxed at a lower rate, and to time your deductible expenses so that they may be claimed in years when you are in a higher tax bracket. In terms of investment planning, investing in capital assets may increase your ability to time the recognition of some of your income and may help you to take advantage of tax rates that are lower than the ordinary income tax rates. You have the flexibility to control when you recognize the income or loss on many types of investment assets. In most cases, you determine when to sell your capital assets. In some cases, however, shifting potential capital gain income to other taxpayers through gifting may be an appropriate strategy. How do you use the capital gains tax to lower your taxes? Capital gains and losses are accorded special tax treatment. Currently, the top long-term capital gains tax rate is 20% (for most types of assets), while the top ordinary income tax rate is 39.6%. That’s a difference of 19.6%. As a consequence, by converting some of your ordinary income to long-term capital gain income, it may be possible for you to reduce your federal income tax liability. Long-term capital gains are generally taxed at a capital gains tax rate of 0% for taxpayers in the 10 and 15% tax brackets, 15% for taxpayers in the 25 to 35% tax brackets, and 20% for taxpayers in the 39.6% tax bracket. Timing your capital gain recognition Careful timing of when you sell capital assets may help you to reduce your federal income tax liability. For example, if it’s late in the year and you want to sell a capital asset, you can wait until January to sell it so that you realize your capital gain or loss next year (assuming that you have a calendar tax year). This strategy is particularly useful if you are in a higher marginal tax bracket in the current year and expect to be in a lower one in the following year. Timing can also be important because capital gain income increases your adjusted gross income (AGI). Itemized deductions and personal exemptions may be phased out or decreased if your AGI in a given year exceeds a specified threshold. Plan your year-end capital gain and loss status Planning the time when you recognize capital losses may also be important. If you expect to recognize a capital gain this year, you should review your portfolio for possible capital losses that can be Frueholz CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE be executed twice as long as a handshake given in the United States. Also, their research determined that virtually every culture has a softer handshake than we give here in the states and that a knowledge- used to offset the gains. If you have any capital loss carry-forwards, you should review your portfolio for capital gain opportunities to make use of such carry-forwards. In general, net capital losses are deductible dollar-for-dollar against net capital gains. Excess losses are allowed to offset up to $3,000 ($1,500 for individuals filing married filing separate tax returns) of ordinary income per year. Losses over and above the limit may be carried forward indefinitely. The following strategies may be appropriate: • Sell capital gain property before the end of the year if you have already realized capital losses for the year that exceed the sum of any capital gains you have realized plus $3,000 ($1,500 for individuals filing married filing separate tax returns). • If you have gains for the year that exceed your losses, sell property with built-in losses to offset the excess gains. • If your other allowable deductions for the year exceed your income, you should, to the extent possible, avoid realizing any further capital losses for the year. • If you’ve held a capital asset for close to 12 months and want to sell it, wait awhile (if possible). You can take advantage of the lower long-term capital gains rates if you hold the asset for over 12 months before selling it. PAGE 27B Cesar Franco is an independent financial adviser with Royal Alliance Assoc., Inc. Contact him at 113 W. Main St. #228, Alhambra 91801, 626-588-2417, or cfranco@royalaa.com. Securities offered through Cesar Franco, an independent registered representative of Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. NWF Advisory is not affiliated with Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. or registered as a broker-dealer or investment adviser. Article Prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. Copyright 2014. How do you select investments to control income? You can select investments likely to produce ordinary income such as interest, or income that is taxed at reduced rates (certain qualifying dividends or long-term capital gains). You can also select investments likely to produce ordinary or capital losses. You can control when your investment earnings are taxed, bearing in mind that income distributions are generally not taxed until you receive them (assuming that you use the cash method of accounting). By knowing the tax rules, you can lower your taxes. What about shifting income? It may be possible to shift potential capital gains to other taxpayers through gifts. If you are in a 25% or higher individual marginal tax bracket, the zero% long-term capital gains tax rate for those in the 10 or 15% bracket may provide an incentive for you to transfer appreciated assets to relatives in those lower tax brackets. Prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. Copyright 2014. able realtor will include a bow with their handshake in Asia. So, simple business protocol with cards, introductions, and even a handshake can have a positive influence on a real estate transaction. And real estate agents and their clients need to be sensitive to this Cultural Diversity. TUR FEA E IS DL TIN G $784,000 • Altadena 1014 Morada Place, Altadena, CA 91001 3 BD/2BA – 1,750 SQ. FT. Craftsman Style. • www.1014Morada.com North Arcadia 2029 Highland Oaks Dr., Arcadia, CA 91006 3BD/2BA – Prairie Style Home Beautifully remodeled; desirable location. Approx. List price: TBD Montecito Heights 4385 W Rose Hill Dr., El Sereno, CA 90032 3BD/2BA; approx. 1,900 sq.ft. Amazing Views! High end finishes; outdoor decks; spacious lot. Approx. List price: $ 525,000 Silverlake 2372 Loma Vista Pl, Silverlake, CA 90039 4 BD/3BA – Open Floor Plan Brand New Construction; Reservoir Views Approx. List price: $1,385,698 Mt. Washington 429 Beech St., 90065 3BD/2BA Brand New Construction Great Location with Views! Approx. List Price: TBD PAGE 28B AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2014
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