FEBRUARY 2014

SECTION B

AROUND ALHAMBRA

life

community seniors / health dining / entertainment auto / real estate

PUBLISHED BY THE ALHAMBRA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Dining out, gifts make Valentines Day special Valentine’s Day is almost here. Local restaurants and businesses have all needs covered, including cuisine with a romantic flair and gift ideas that will send a loved one’s heart aflutter. Let the local restaurants take care of preparing the Valentine’s Day meal, or purchase a Valentine’s Day gift with free wrapping included from businesses on Main Street. Here is a list of restaurants with friendly staff ready to make this Valentine’s Day extra special: 28 West has it all for Valentine’s Day: dinner, a romantic spot with music, and a cool bar. Choose seating with dinner in the dining room, sit in the lounge and sip on champagne, or hang out at the 28 West bar and pull one of 28 West’s 20 handles. 28 West has all the favorite craft beers and popular signature cocktails. For reservations, phone 626-281-1777. The Valentine’s Day menu will include cocktails, wine, and champagne specials along with a specialty appetizer menu for sharing. Guests also are invited to sample $6 specialty martinis on Feb. 14. 28 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-281-1777 • www.facebook.com/twentyeight.west It’s back — heart shaped, deep fried cloud cakes only at Alondra Hot Wings and only on Valentine’s Day. Get some for those special someones and show them how much they are loved … fugetaboutit! 515 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-576-7119 • www.alondrahotwings.com Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Caffe Italiano Restaurant to confirm one’s love with a delicious dinner

201 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-281-3488 • www.dineronmainrestaurant.net

Yes, it’s true –

means you remembered menu for only $55 per couple. Reservation requests can be made by phone. 7 S. 2nd St. • Alhambra 91801 626-570-8262 • www.caffeitaliano-la.coma Diner on Main invites valentines to smile while enjoying made-from-scratch entrees and appetizers, including crispy calamari, steak and crispy shrimp combo, and grilled orange roughy. Diner on Main will feature its Love Potion Martini and A French Kiss Champagne. The Diner on Main’s famous entrees and desserts are always a class above for dining pleasure and a special evening.

Treat a sweetheart to The Grids sweet waffle. For Valentine’s Day, buy two meal deals at The Grids and get one sweet waffle free. 1468 E. Valley Blvd. • Alhambra 91801 626-289-4000 • www.the-grids.com Nothing says “I love you” like a Behemoth Burger in a loved one’s face. This year, celebrate Valentine’s Day with beers and burgers at Grill ‘Em All, open from 11 a.m. to 11p.m. 19 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-284-2874 • www.grillemalltruck.com Hot Red Bus invites valentines to treat their birds to a fish & chips supper. Hot Red Bus is offering two, one-piece fish & chips dinners with a side salad, two regular fountain drinks, and dessert. Cheers, loves. 31 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-576-2877 • www.hotredbus.com Kosuke is open for Valentine’s Day. Business hours are Monday – Saturday 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. 618 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-289-8030 Loving Hut Vegan Cuisine is open to celebrate Valentine’s Day from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. 621 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-289-2684 • www.lovinghut.com

Atherton Baptist Homes celebrates centennial B Y D ENNIS M C F ADDEN , CEO ATHERTON B APTIST H OMES During 2014, Atherton will celebrate its 100th year. With a variety of events open to residents, staff, and the Alhambra community, the much storied provider of senior services in Alhambra not only looks backward to its sentinel milestones, but Atherton’s first building in Alhambra was Atherton Court. forward to the challenges and opportunities drawing it forward to its future in the decades to come. One hundred years have witnessed amazing changes in Alhambra. From a fledgling community incorporated for little more than a decade to the vigorous, multicultural center of San Gabriel Valley, the city has survived booms and depressions, explosive growth in Southern California, the effect of world wars and regional conflicts, mind-numbing feats of technological magic, and our own taste of globalization. But 100 years is also the length of time Atherton has been in existence, most of it here in Alhambra. The beginning of a year filled with centennial celebrations commences, appropriately enough, with a special birthday celebration on Feb. 4 honoring Atherton’s five living centenarians: those who were born in 1914, the year the community began. On March 3, 1914, Hannah Atherton Baldwin met with the executive committee of the Southern California Baptist Convention to propose building a home for aged Baptist ministers and missionaries. She was with her CONTINUED ON PAGE 2B

Early residents of Alhambra’s Atherton Court.

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SENIOR NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

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Seniors / Retirees News |Activities, Projects, Features

Atherton’s original campus in Alhambra.

Atherton Baptist Homes celebrates its centennial CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B architect, who already had drawn the plans, and they had even selected a site on a 5-acre tract just north of Burbank High School in Burbank. She also had a check for $40,000, which would build the building and provide the ini-

tial funds for the maintenance and endowment of the facility. Atherton’s future did not lie in Burbank, however, but rather in Alhambra.This month marks the historical purchase of a fiveroom building and 1.5 acres of land off Atlantic Boulevard in

Alhambra in 1923. During the next decades, Atherton grew to its present size of nearly 15 acres and more than 75 buildings, including the recent addition of the stunning Courtyard complex of 50 luxurious apartments. During these years, the community added not only additional plots of land and new buildings designed to fulfill its mission, but also an expansion of its mission to include all people, especially those living in the San Gabriel Valley. From a handful of retired missionaries, Atherton has grown to more than 360 seniors, reflecting a dazzling array of backgrounds, ethnicities, and life experiences. With great gratitude to the city of Alhambra and the remarkable record of support we have received from the larger community, we hope that our fellow citizens will join us in banquets, parties, and community celebrations throughout the year as we celebrate our first 100 years. We look forward to the exciting prospects in the decades to come.

Hannah Atherton Baldwin, Atherton’s original benefactor. As a young girl, she overheard missionaries telling her parents of their concerns for what they would do after concluding their active years on the foreign field. She vowed that if she ever had any money, she would help create a place where retired ministers and missionaries could live in safety and security. With her $40,000 initial gift in 1914, Atherton was created. Today it is a diverse community of more than 360 people, reflecting a variety of ethnicities, religious backgrounds, and life experiences.

Atherton resident reaches 110 years old “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

On Jan. 17, Atherton Baptist Homes hosted a birthday party for its oldest resident, Lorraine Coops. Mrs. Coops was born in Pawnee, Nebraska, on Jan. 18, 1904, and moved to Pasadena in her childhood. She met her husband, Morton Coops, at a Policemen’s Ball, and the two married. Mr. Morton died as a result of a flu epidemic in the 1940s, and Mrs. Coops raised her two children on her own. She moved to an Atherton cottage when she was 90 years old and lived independently until a fall, when she was 104, caused her to move into the Health Care Center. One of Mrs. Coops’ goals was to live as long as her mother. Her mother died at 107. At 110, Mrs. Coops is now becoming a member of a very select group of human beings worldwide called “supercentenarians.” According to the Gerontology Research Group, there are only 62 registered supercentenarians in Atherton Baptist Homes hosted a birthday the world, though they estimate the ac- party on Jan. 17 for Atherton resident CONTINUED ON PAGE 4B Lorraine Coops, who is 110 years old.

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Joslyn Adult Recreation Center

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at Joslyn Center St. Valentine’s Day will be celebrated at the Joslyn Adult Recreation Center, 210 N. Chapel Ave., in Story Park, with a luncheon celebration at 11 a.m. Friday, Feb. 14. The center offers a monthly variety of classes, informational seminars, health screenings, Senior Nutrition Program, and loads of other programs of interest to seniors. Some of the programs for February are: Registration day for March Senior Outings on Tuesday, Feb. 4. See the Senior Outings article for details of March outings to Palm Springs and Universal City Walk. Family Dynamics and Caregiving seminar at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 4. Presented by USC Family Caregiver Resource Center. Happy Birthday Luncheon Celebration at 11 a.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 5. All January birthday celebrants in attendance will be honored and receive a token gift. Co-sponsored by Care 1st Health Plan. Blood pressure screening at 10 a.m. Monday, Feb. 10 and Monday, Feb. 24.

Co-sponsored by Alhambra Hospital. Balance and Falls seminar at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11. Presented by Right At Home. Proper Cane Use seminar at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 18. Presented by Gayle McKinney, senior advocate. AARP Driver Safety Program – Refresher Course from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 19. Fee: $15 for AARP members, $20 for non-members. This four-hour refresher course, which is accepted by AAA Insurance and Hartford Insurance for discount rates, is open only to those who have taken the two-day course (proof required). Register as soon as possible. Class may be cancelled due to low registration. Phone 626-570-5056 for information. Understanding and Reviewing Your Trusts seminar at 10 a.m. Thursday, Feb. 20. A part of the Managing Elder Care, Trusts and Medi-Cal series of seminars presented by Elder Law Attorney Carlos A. Arcos. Special luncheon celebrations are a part

St. Valentine’s Day Luncheon Celebration 11 a.m. Friday, Feb.14. Join the festivities celebrating love. Co-sponsored by Southland Transit Inc.

Atherton resident reaches 110 years old CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2B tual number is between 300 to 450 people. There are no registered supercentenarians in California. Atherton Baptist Homes is a Continuing Care Retirement Community, which has provided senior living options to the

residents of the San Gabriel Valley for 90 years. This year is the 100th anniversary of Atherton. As part of its centennial celebration, Atherton will host a birthday party for the other six residents who have also reached or will reach the century mark in 2014.

of the weekday Senior Nutrition Program, which require reservations one day in advance. Phone 626-458-4545 weekdays at 9:30 a.m.

Informational seminars are free, unless otherwise indicated, but space is limited. Please phone 626-570-5056 to reserve a space.

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SENIOR NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

Joslyn Adult Center Outings Senior Outings participants will be warming up in Palm Springs in March While the Midwest and East Coast experience their seasonal freezing temps, Southern Californians see a warming trend on the horizon: the Senior Outings program visit on March 13 to Palm Springs. Seniors can register for the Palm Springs outing at the Joslyn Adult Recreation Center, 210 N. Chapel Ave., on Tuesday, Feb. 4. Complete registration instructions are included in the winter/spring 2014 Leisure Classes, Activities & Excursions Guide, available at www.cityofalhambra.org. Also open for sign-ups on Feb. 4 is the March 28 Senior Outing to Universal City Walk from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The fee is $12. With more than 30 stores, more than 30 great places to eat (lunch not included), and a 190screen movie theatre featuring an eight-story-high IMAX theatre, visitors will have little trouble filling their day with enjoyable experiences. The March 13 Palm Springs outing from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. (fee is $12) offers a plethora of boutiques and museums, a spa and casino, sporting opportunities, and a choice of restaurants and cafes. Seniors registered for the February outings last month, but on the offchance that seats are still available for the Queen Mary, from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, Feb. 7, (fee $25) or the Getty Villa, from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 21, (fee $12), a phone call to 626-570-5056 will give the latest information. Make plans for additional spring Senior Outings by registering on the following dates: March 4 for Ojai from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on April 9 (fee $12) and for Gardens of the World and The Lakes from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 25 (fee: $12). April 1 for Downtown Ventura from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on May 15 (fee: $12) and for the Hammer Museum and the UCLA campus from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. on May 22 (fee: $12). May 6 for Santa Monica on Farmers Market day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on June 11 (fee: $12) and Long Beach harbor cruise from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on June 27 (fee: $20). For more information, phone 626-570-5056 during weekday business hours.

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HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

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Health & Medical News|Hospitals, Physicians, Dentists, Facilities Don’t use power tooth brush like lawn mower: it can cause receding gums Heavy brushing with any power tooth brush is like using a lawn mower on your gums

Smile Talk

Heavy brushing with any power tooth brush is like using a lawn mower on your gums.

B Y J OHN C HAO , D.D.S.

Gum recession can lead to sensitivity of the tooth, exposed margins (areas around a crown which can lead to a cavity), discoloration, as well as bone loss around each tooth. If too much recession occurs, the tooth may become loose.

Gum recession, also known as “being long in the tooth” is the exposure of the root around the tooth. This can be caused by many different factors and can lead to additional problems if not taken care of. It can be caused by over brushing, clenching or grinding, orthodontics, smoking, periodontitis (gum disease), as well as malocclusion (uneven bite). Along with gum disease, the most common cause of recession is over brushing, or pushing too hard while brushing with an incorrect motion or with a tooth brush that doesn’t have soft bristles.

A variety of treatment options are available for gum recession. Some of these treatments include fillings, surgical grafting, or the newest technique for gingival recession: Pinhole Surgical Technique (PST). Pinhole Surgical Technique is a painless procedure invented by John Chao, DDS., which involves placing a pinhole in the gums and then special instruments are inserted into the gums in order to slide the gum back down over the recession on the tooth.

It is very important when buying a toothbrush to either buy an extra soft or soft bristled toothbrush. Electric tooth brushes are very beneficial as well. Any toothbrush that is harder than a soft toothbrush has bristles that are not soft enough for the gums and will break them down, causing recession. It is also important to eliminate gum disease before treating receding gums. Over brushing doesn’t prevent gum disease. The motion used while brushing is essential in making sure the gums don’t recede. It is very important to use either a roll technique (roll the soft bristled tooth brush from the gum area to the biting surface of the tooth) very gently, or to use a circular motion (moving the toothbrush in small circles over the tooth and gums).

adding a circular or roll motion, and not adding any pressure. With these brushes, if extra motion is added, gum recession will be caused.

A collagen membrane is then placed through the pinhole and inserted over the gum line to help hold the gums in their correct position. This technique is quick, easy, and noninvasive. It can only be done by dentists specifically trained by Dr. Chao.

For more information, contact Dr. John Chao at 626-308-9104. Visit Dr. Chao’s Web site at chickenswelcome.com If using an electric toothbrush, it is very important to not add extra motion while brushing. To use it, gently hold the brush along the tooth and move it from one side of the mouth to the other, not

Recession can be treated in a variety of ways. It is very important to get it treated so that no additional bone loss results. It is also crucial to correct the reason which caused the recession. If it was the brushing, then proper brushing needs to be learned so as to not continue the recession. If it is the result of other causes, they need to be addressed as well so that treatment can be successful.

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.

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HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

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Vision problems sometimes misdiagnosed as ADD/ADHD B Y K AREN C HAO , O.D. When children continue to struggle with reading and learning, it is very frustrating for parents and teachers. The search to figure out what is wrong can be exhausting. It has become almost an assumption that if a child is having trouble paying attention that it must be ADD. Yet, most people don’t realize that eye coordination and eye movement disorders have very similar symptoms that can make it easy to mistake it for ADD. Sometimes vision problems can be misdiagnosed as ADD/ADHD. Other times, vision problems can worsen the symptoms of ADD/ADHD by contributing to difficulty with reading and paying attention. Understanding this is crucial for a correct diagnosis and more importantly, for a correct treatment plan. If you are like most people, you assume that if someone can see the letters on the eye chart or has passed a vision screening, then their vision is fine. Many think that “20/20” means your vision is perfect. This is a very common misconception that can cause years of struggling. There are actually 17 visual skills that are necessary for academic success. Seeing the letters on the eye chart from a distance of 20 feet is only one of these visual skills. When one or more are missing, paying attention in the classroom or while reading becomes difficult. You may be interested to know that symptoms of ADD/ADHD can be quite similar to those of vision problems that interfere with reading and learning. Some of the symptoms of a learning-re-

Karen H. Chao, O.D.

Dr. Karen H. Chao, O.D. has been an Optometrist in private practice for more than 17 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. lated vision problem include difficulty paying attention to details, being easily distracted, having difficulty finishing schoolwork, fidgeting and squirming when seated, and having difficulty or-

ganizing tasks and activities. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, the standard used to diagnose ADD/ ADHD, the symptoms of ADD/ADHD must be present in two or more settings, such as school and home. But if a child is having difficulty paying attention because he can’t make the words clear or keep them from moving, the setting won’t matter. He will have attention problems wherever he is trying to read.

An easy way for parents to tell if their child may have a vision problem contributing to their attention difficulties is to consider how long their child pays attention when read to. If a school-aged child has no problem with paying attention when the story is read to him, but has difficulty attending when the information is presented visually, then it is likely that this child may be missing one or more of the visual skills required for CONTINUED ON PAGE 9B

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Technology today is changing our everyday lives – and dentistry Is it possible to have a porcelain crown made in one dental visit? Yes, there is a digital technology that allows dentists to quickly restore damaged teeth in just one office visit using ceramic material that matches the natural color of the other teeth. How does the new technology work? The process starts with the dentist using a special camera that captures threedimensional images of the tooth and adjacent teeth. Then special software is used to create a design for the crown. A mouse click sends the design to the milling machine, which sculpts the tooth

from a small block of ceramic. Finally the dentist bonds the new restoration to the tooth. All is done in less than two hours. What are the advantages? The computer software essentially eliminates the possibility of human error. That makes the fit of the crown more precise and improves the longevity. • Single visit. • No impressions. • No temporaries. • Metal-free, biocompatible ceramic material.

Ask Dr. Dara, DDS

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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 [email protected].

CEREC technology: wand scans teeth and computer designs porcelain restorations.

Tooth crown

2/2014

Dr. Dara, DDS

HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8B

What are the disadvantages? Expensive technology: The system has been around more than 25 years and is still available only in 10% to 15% of U.S. dentists’ offices. There are some “aesthetic limitations,” making it a less used option for front teeth. In some cases, front teeth aren’t a single color, but yellowish at the gum line with gradually changing color until they become nearly translucent at the edge. In these cases the artistic touch of a lab technician can make all the difference. What kinds of restorations can it perform?

• Complete crowns. • Partial crowns, porcelain fillings — which preserve healthy tooth structures. • Porcelain veneers. What does it cost? Depending on the dentist and location, a traditional metal covered with porcelain crown can cost $700 to $1,200. Most of the dentists don’t charge more for a one-visit crown than a traditional crown. Technology today is changing our everyday lives. Visits to the dentist these days are requiring less time, causing less discomfort and creating more satisfying results.

Karen H. Chao, O.D. CONTINUED FROM PAGE 7B

reading and learning. When you have a child who has difficulty concentrating in school or at home, especially when it comes to reading or writing assignments, it is vital that you rule out the possibility that a vision problem may be contributing to your child’s difficulties, before you assume that it’s ADD/ADHD. Parents often brag when their child can see 20/20. But what parents don’t realize is that while a child can see clearly far away, that does not automatically mean that their child can see clearly at the distance required for reading. For instance, a child who is farsighted, meaning that they can see the classroom chalkboard clearly but have difficulty seeing at reading distance, will usually pass the vision screening by the school

nurse or the pediatrician. Keep in mind that a vision screening is just that: a screening. Most vision screenings test for less than half of the 17 visual skills required for reading and learning. However, many parents think that their child had a full eye exam at school or the pediatrician’s office when in fact they just had a screening. A full eye exam is necessary to determine if vision problems are contributing to attention difficulties. Not all eye doctors test for vision problems that interfere with reading, learning, and paying attention. To find a doctor near you who provides this type of testing, visit the Web site for the College of Optometrists in Vision Development: www.covd.org. For more information, you can also visit www.SGFamilyOptometry.com.

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HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

Sunlight may lower blood pressure S OURCE : NBC N EWS Here’s why sunbathing feels so good: It may lower your blood pressure, British researchers reported Friday. Just 20 minutes of ultraviolet A (UVA) sunlight lowered blood pressure by a small but significant amount in 24 volunteers, they report in the Journal of Investigative Dermatology. Further checks suggest the sun does this by increasing levels of nitric oxide, a chemical linked to blood flow. The effects are so strong they may help explain why people who live in the darker north, like the Scots, have higher rates of death from heart disease, Richard Weller of the University of Edinburgh and Martin Feelisch of the University of Southampton say. In other words, a little sunshine really may warm your heart.

Fremont Optometry Center

Se Habla Español 2447 W. Valley Blvd. • Alhambra, CA 91803 • (626) 300-9251

2/2014

For Your Good Health

Coping abilities: The autonomic nervous system B Y S HEILA Y ONEMOTO , P.T. Some people go through life with composure while raising small children, handling a stressful job, and being a caregiver for an elderly parent. Others get extremely upset because a traffic light doesn’t change fast enough. Emotional stress taxes our systems leading to cardiovascular disease, cancer, digestive problems, and skin disorders. But physical components may also contribute to a lessening of coping abilities. The voluntary nervous system is responsible for muscle control and conscious movements while the autonomic nervous system (ANS) controls the functions we don’t have to think about. The ANS maintains an internal balance in the body. If you go from an air-conditioned office into the hot sun, the ANS regulates sweating to prevent body temperature from getting too high and cooking the internal organs. The ANS makes sure we

have adequate blood pressure so we don’t collapse from lack of blood to the brain when getting out of bed in the morning. The ANS regulates the amount of light entering the eyes with pupil dilation so we are not blinded at night by an oncoming car’s headlights. When we have trouble with these functions, we know the ANS is not working well. The ANS coordinates heart, digestive, gland, lung, and sensory systems. Structural factors can also influence its ability to maintain balance in the body. When we need additional support, acupuncture, medicine, nutritional supplements, herbs, and qigong can help. Manual therapy techniques help alleviate structural problems. You can do your part by eating well, getting enough exercise and sleep, and eliminating stress, poisons, negative influences, and overload. Getting the autonomic nervous system in shape helps us to cope better with life.

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 626-5760591 for more information, or visit www.yonemoto.com

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

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Dining & Entertainment | What’s Happening for Food & Fun

Rutsu 18 is Main Street’s newest addition B Y S ARAH G REAR Rutsu 18 celebrated its grand opening the first week of November. The restaurant serves delicious rice bowls, tasty small plates, and flavorful ramen bowls. Many of the dishes incorporate other Asian flaors into the food as well. “The food has been described as CalAsian, and the focus is on Japanese flavors,” said Rutsu 18 owner Sarah Kim. “I have been in the Japanese food restaurant business for 10 years, so that’s my area of expertise.” The Japanese restaurant offers more than 25 dishes. It is located at 645 E. Main St. The popular menu features food normally found at a ramen restaurant or an izakaya (Japanese pub). Rutsu 18 is making these types of food more approachable and available for their customers. People can mix and match the small plates with a ramen or rice bowl. Their menu is also kid-friendly and appeals to the whole family. “When I go out to restaurants, I like to try a lot of different things,” said Ms. Kim. “I’m allowing people to do that here with the smaller plate and bowl portions.” As I walked into the restaurant on a busy Monday afternoon, I was delighted to discover a new Japanese restaurant on Main Street. The 2,500-square-foot restaurant is full of color balanced with clean, white and black finishes on the tables and booth seating. Ms. Kim greeted me, and as I browsed the menu she explained that the signature ramen is the spicy miso. With soup stock cooked from scratch for 15 hours, the miso’s rich flavors come mainly from the pork, so there’s no need to add many flavors or preservatives. I was also delighted to see several hot tea and natural flavored beverages including crimson berry iced tea, hot pineapple papaya green tea, and hot

served from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Monday – Thursday, dinner is from 5:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. Monday – Thursday, and 5:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. on Friday – Sunday. The phone number is 626-458-8388. “Like” Rutsu 18 on Facebook at www.facebook.com/rutsu18.

Rutsu 18

Friendly Rutsu 18 server Yumina Iwata holds a steamy bowl of signature spicy miso ramen. The restaurant is located at 645 E. Main St. golden nectar, which is a citrus tea with South African rooibos (red tea). One of the many popular rice bowls is the chashu. It has simmered pork in a sweet soy glaze with a rich Asian barbecue flavor laid on a bed of rice. “Some of my favorite menu choices are our grilled squid, spicy miso, and our grilled romaine,” said Ms. Kim. With so many great small plates, Ms. Kim shared that the grilled romaine and the smoked salmon croquets are top sellers from the extensive menu. The tonkatsu cutlets are also popular. They are stuffed with parmesan and shiso leaves. New flavors on the menu are what make Rutsu 18 stand apart from other Japanese eateries. When something on the menu has a twist to it like the tonkatsu with parmesan, Ms. Kim makes sure the new flavors complement the traditional flavors. 2505 W. Valley Blvd • Alhambra CA 91803 As Ms. Kim was choosing the name for Rustu 18, she wanted a name that symbolized connectedness between different cultures. Much of her inspiraMonday: Fajita Night 2 for $20 • Taco Tuesday • Margarita Wednesdays tion comes from Asian cultures and the intersection with Southern California We now deliver in Alhambra from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m. foods. “I wanted a name that would reflect Happy Hour Monday Bucket Night that cultural connection, so I chose rutsu, Tues. - Fri. 4 - 7 p.m. 4 - 10 p.m. a word that refers to “roots,”” said Ms. 6 bottles imported or Domestic Beer $3 DRAFT BEER Kim. “The number 18 is a number that 15% off all appetizers 15% off all appetizers represents “specialty” in Japanese. So my restaurant name inspiration is that getting down to our roots with all of these panAsian and California flavors is our 18, our specialty.” Ms. Kim enjoys being a part of the Alhambra community with its rich history. She joined the Chamber of Commerce and opened her restaurant in Alhambra to bring something to the community that didn’t already serve her specialty pan-Asian food. “We’re here to become part of the community and offer something new to all the residents,” said Ms. Kim. “We love the friends and family we’ve been making, and we can’t wait to grow with the community and be part of the exciting developments.” Rutsu18 has a free mobile app with a customer loyalty program available for Join Us for Sunday Lunch Buffet - $7.99 both iPhone and Android users. The app sends notifications about specials and 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Champagne Brunch menu changes. Currently the loyalty Monday - Friday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. $14.99 rewards program gives customers a free small plate after 10 visits. Chonito’s Mexican Restaurant Rutsu 18 is located at 645 E. Main St. 2505 W. Valley Blvd • Alhambra CA 91803 • 626-284-8601 • http://chonitos.com/ It is open seven days a week. Lunch is

Join Us for Our Daily Specials

Spicy miso ramen bowl is served with chashu, green onion, bamboo, bean sprouts, cabbage, spinach, egg, and seaweed.

Refreshing pineapple papaya green tea is served piping hot.

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

2/2014

February is Dine Out with Your Sweetheart Month

Alhambra is Rich in Restaurants. Enjoy dining at one for Valentines Day Continued from Page 1B Marie Callender’s is having a prime rib special on Valentine’s Day. Slow roasted choice prime rib roast served with loaded baked potato, creamed corn, chef vegetables, au jus, and traditional Yorkshire popovers. All this will be served with a fresh Caeser salad and Marie’s signature cornbread. Pies featuring Valentine’s Day favorites of chocolate cream and cherry will be on sale for a special price and served in a tin. Marie Callender’s is open for Valentine’s Day dining from 11 a.m.to 11 p.m. The restaurant will be open at 10 a.m. for customers who want to purchase pies. 220 S. Atlantic Blvd. • Monterey Park 91754 626-281-9548 • www.mariecallenders.com Twohey’s Restaurant has a special Valentine’s Day menu with chocolate dipped strawberries and tasty, live Maine lobsters. 1224 N. Atlantic Blvd. • Alhambra 91801 626-284-7387 • www.twoheys.com Wahib’s Middle East Restaurant will be open Valentine’s Day from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Buffet will be available with lamb shank, chicken kebab, grape leaves, baked chicken, and okra stew with rice and salad. The restaurant also offers a full bar and hookah lounge till 2 a.m. 910 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-281-1006 • www.wahibmiddleeast.com Along with a special meal on Valentine’s Day, share the love with a keepsake gift from retail stores: 58 Facets Jewelry can help find the perfect jewels that will last a lot longer than chocolate. Give her what she really wants for Valentine’s Day, and visit 58 Facets Jewelry in Alhambra. 58 Facets offers fine and fashion jewelry from leading manufacturers, including Pandora, Honora Pearls, Elle Fashion and Time, Citizen Watches, Preciosa Crystal, Officina Bernardi, Colores SG, by Simon Golub and many more top brands. 36 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-569-7289 • www.58-facets.com CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

Great Gatsby making intimate appearance at ... A newer, more intimate Gatsby experience is coming to the Mosaic Lizard Theater beginning Friday, Feb. 21 and ending on March 2. The Lizard stage, 112 W. Main St., is once more being loaned to the Boundless Artists Theater Company, who brought Cuckoo’s Nest and Romeo and Juliet and other engaging theater productions, and now arranges for Jay Gatsby and Daisy Buchanan to play out their lives in the same room with an Alhambra theater audience. Decadence, social upheaval, and excess are just some of the words used to describe this CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

2/2014

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

Make it an Alhambra

Sweetheart Dinner CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

Alhambra Camera & Snap n’ Scrap is offering scrapbooking for 50% off all Blue Price Tag Scrapbooking items (that is more than 90% of the stock) from Saturday, Feb. 8 through Friday, Feb. 14 on Valentine’s Day. Click and save Valentine’s memories. Buy any Canon digital camera to get a free 4GB memory card along with a coupon for 24, 4x6 prints and an album for the photos. Offer good Tuesday, Feb.11through Friday, Feb. 14 Valentine’s Day. Regular store hours are Tuesday – Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Closed on Sunday and Monday. 121 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-282-6365 • www.alhambracamera.com

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Downtown Alhambra rocks on Saturday nights Enjoy great music every Saturday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Rick’s Main Street Cafe’s stage, 132 W. Main St., in Downtown Alhambra, brought to you by Marini Music and Rick’s: Feb. 1: Bob’s Garage – classic rock Feb. 8: Janie Steele & Pacific Electric – classic rock Feb. 15: The Other Brothers – classic rock Feb. 22: J.E.S. – classic rock For more information, contact Marini Music at 626-289-0241.

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The Fit Factor is offering the perfect Valentine’s Day gift: a $99 new introductory membership for one month of unlimited classes. Please register online at www.thefitfactorstudio.com. 38 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-310-7454 • www.thefitfactorstudio.com Marini Music is offering a Valentine’s Day Special of four free guitar lessons ($100 value) when any guitar for $99 and up is purchased. Ukuleles are priced at $39 and up. Take a loved one on a row boat and play the ukulele like Groucho Marx used to do. 222 Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-289-0241 • www.marinimusic.com Jayvee Dance Center will host “I heart JV” week with students wearing their Jayvee Dance Center T-shirts. They will sell candy grams to raise funds for dance competitions. 216 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-281-JVJV (5858) • www.jayveedancecenter.net Perfume Station is offering complimentary gift wrapping and 10% off on Feb. 14 when one of its signature fragrances is purchased, including Burberry, Armani, and Versace, or write a review on Yelp to receive 10% off a purchase in February. 9 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 866-576-PS4U (7748) • www.perfumestation.com

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... Mosaic Lizard Theater in February portrait of the Roaring Twenties. Mosaic Lizard Theater Managing Director Jay Parker said that “having Boundless here has been a great experience. Many of them are college students or theater majors who have come together with great passion and enthusiasm for the stage.” The Great Gatsby opens at 8 p.m. Feb. 21 and plays on Friday and Saturday evenings at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through March 2. General admission is $15. Students and seniors pay only $12. For reservations, please phone 626-202-2859.

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

2/2014

The Grill ‘Em All food truck appeared at the business’s first anniversary celebration on Jan. 17.

A full house of burger lovers attended Grill ‘Em All’s first anniversary celebration in January.

Grill ‘Em All celebrates first birthday B Y B ILL K INMAN Burgers at Grill ‘Em All, in the Renaissance Plaza, are all a half-pound, made only from fresh ingredients, creatively invented by Chef Ken Cazares and his staff, and they’re the best burgers on the planet, or at least in Southern California. On Jan.17, 2013, Grill ‘Em All had its grand opening, after a brief soft opening, and the rest is history. In fact it was history — the Grill ‘Em All food truck winning the first Great Food Truck Race and its $50,000 prize in 2010 — that led to the Alhambra restaurant that draws burger lovers from far and wide. Grill ‘Em All owners Matt Chernus, an Alhambra resident, and Ryan Harkins, childhood

Look for the hamburger sign at Grill ‘Em All in the Renaissance Plaza, northeast corner of Main and Garfield. friends in Rocky River Ohio, brought the food truck to Renaissance Plaza on Jan. 17, 2014, to reward their loyal burger customers with something special: a free piece of Grill ‘Em All birthday cake, including the strawberry cake with bacon and the chocolate cake with chips.

Grill ‘Em All’s menu is on a blackboard covering one wall of the restaurant, and you can read the creative ingredients of each of the burgers, including the best-seller-burger: the Behemoth, with grilled-cheese buns, cheddar, barbecue sauce, house pickle, grilled onion, and bacon and the Burger of the Month, for which local burger lovers await with taste buds on alert. If you haven’t yet tried a burger from Grill ‘Em All, you have the opportunity from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sundays through Thursdays or from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. For more information about Grill ‘Em All, phone 626-284-2874.

Performing Arts Center to present concert tribute to Everly Brothers The Alhambra Performing Arts Center (CVPA) will present recording star, composer, and arranger Mark Carter and his tribute to the Everly Brothers, with artist Bobby Williams. This free concert will take place at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb 16 at Sage Granada Park United Methodist Church, 1850 W. Hellman Ave., Alhambra. Over the years, Mr. Carter has performed with some of the biggest names in modern music: Dave Koz, Eric Marienthal, Al Jarreau, Rogers Williams, The Drifters, The Coasters, and Engelbert Humperdink. As longtime guitarist for special performances at the Crystal Cathedral, he played with David Foster, Glen Campbell, and Lee Greenwood. A well-regarded session player, he has recorded music for Royal Viking Cruise Lines, Disneyland, Hot Spots Music Library, KDOC-TV, and American Cable TV. Mr. Carter has also taught at various schools throughout Southern California. Regarding his tribute concert, Mr. Carter recalled that when he began his career in the ‘70s, the Everly Brothers music was the cornerstone The Alhambra Performing Arts Center that many famous groups in- will present recording star, composer, cluding the Beatles used in and arranger Mark Carter and his tribtheir vocal harmonies and ute to the Everly Brothers on Feb. 16. style. Phil Everly, the younger half of the Everly Brothers, died Jan. 3 in California. The Everly Brothers were popular in the early rock ‘n’ roll era with hits such as Bye Bye Love, Cathy’s Clown, Till I Kissed You, All I Have To Do Is Dream, Bird Dog and Walk Right Back. While their last record to make the Top 10 was That’s Old Fashioned in 1962, they were an important influence on the Beatles, Simon & Garfunkle, and other groups. The brothers were inducted into the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame in 1986, soon after it opened. After a period of esCONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

2/2014

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

PAGE 15B

Two for the Show M OVIE R EVIEWS B Y M ICHAEL C ARVAINES

Saving Mr. Banks and Her entertaining, not to be missed B Y M ICHAEL C ARVAINES This month, moviegoers can watch both an old-fashioned sentimental story and the most modern love story ever put on film. Although they are very different, both Saving Mr. Banks and Her are funny, entertaining movies not to be missed. Saving Mr. Banks is a tribute to glamorous Hollywood filmmaking. If you enjoy behind- the- scenes dramatizations of the movie-making process and the styles of California in the early ’60s, then this is the movie for you. Although it’s not apparent from the title, this is the origin story of one of the most beloved movies of all time: Mary Poppins. Emma Thompson plays P. L. Travers, the original writer of the Mary Poppins books. Tom Hanks plays Walt Disney, and the two engage in a battle of wills over the rights to adapt the character and stay true to a meaningful story. It’s a very humorous struggle, as Mrs. Travers cringes at the commercialism of all things Disney. “Poor A. A. Milne,” she sighs when she encounters a stuffed Winnie the Pooh. As the script is hammered out and songs rehearsed, Mrs. Travers keeps resisting, including resisting the use of any animation. But how to resolve the issue of the dancing penguins? Emma Thompson and Tom Hanks are truly fun to watch. We, of course, know how their battle turns out, but it is a welcome joy during a movie season that has proven to be extra dark and sad. Saving Mr. Banks is a good old-fashioned bit of entertainment that will stick with you long after it’s over. Her stars Joaquin Phoenix as Theodore

Twombly: a lonely writer wandering through his newly divorced life. He walks around the near-future Los Angeles, lost in his thoughts and memories, immersed in video games and anonymous chat rooms. When his new computer speaks with Scarlett Johansson’s voice, he’s smitten. It’s more than the voice, however. “Samantha” is a caring, thoughtful being who listens and understands Theo. She, or it, becomes his constant companion, going on dates, vacations, and sharing every intimate moment together. To Theo, Samantha is perfect. Her explores the meaning of love and relationships as deeply as any movie this year. It’s the most modern love story I’ve seen in a while, not because of the technology, but because of the confusion and frustrations that all couples encounter. As Theo falls for Samantha, he’s also forced to confront his ex-wife, Rooney Mara. He also ventures on an awkward, unsuccessful blind date (Olivia Wilde) and comforts a friend (Amy Adams) as her own relationship collapses. We see all sides of the dating and marriage spectrum, and so does Samantha. She processes everything and decides for herself what to make of this foolish thing we call love.

Alhambra resident Michael Carvaines writes the online movie blog “Spectacle And Truth” which can be found at www.spectacleandtruth.com. Follow him on Twitter at @MicarPro

For a current movie list for Edwards Theatre, go to fandango.com, and type in alhambra, ca.

Tribute to Everly Brothers is Feb. 16 CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE trangement, the brothers reunited in 1983. The Everly Brothers had 35 Billboard Top-100 singles, 26 in the Top 40. They have the record for the most Top-100 singles by any duo, and trail only Hall & Oates for the most Top-40 singles by a duo. In the UK, they had 30 chart singles, 29 in the Top 40, 13 Top 10, and four at No. 1 between 1957 and 1984. They had 12 Top 40 albums between 1960 and 2009. Mr. Carter and Mr. Williams will bring back many of the Everly Brothers favorites and encourage the audience to participate in remembrance of this rock duo. Admission is free. Donations are requested during intermission. For more information, contact Bill Yee, artistic director, at 626-230-5435 or [email protected]. The center’s Web site is www.cvpaministry.com.

Family Ties: events for the whole family Friday, Feb. 7 – Alhambra’s First Friday – Bring your girlfriend, boyfriend, husband, wife, anyone you LOVE to the next free “First Friday” event. It’s the perfect place to propose to someone, right next to the mosaic rock formations. No pressure though. Plus, there will be free giveaways, activities for the kids, plenty of nearby shops and restaurants, a movie theater and more. Event runs 5-9 p.m. at the Alhambra Renaissance Plaza, 1 E. Main St. Saturday, Feb. 8 – Lunar New Year Festival/Carnival Welcoming the Year of the Horse – Enjoy a full day of street festival entertainment featuring 250 booths, including such activities as a dragon boat rowing station, auto square, children’s workshops, health fair, fun games, and cultural demonstrations that provide a taste of Asian culture. There will also be giveaways and lots of ethnic food. Event takes place from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Valley Boulevard from Garfield Avenue to Almansor Street.

Feb. 21-March 2 – The Great Gatsby at Mosaic Lizard Theater – Featuring the mysterious Jay Gatsby and his beautiful Daisy Buchanan, performed by the Boundless Artists Theater Company. Decadence, social upheaval and excess are just some of the words to describe this portrait of the Roaring Twenties. The play runs from 8-10 p.m., 112 W. Main St. See advertisement on this page. Feb. 22-March 9 – Like a Rolling Stone: A Rock & Roll Reflection at Nucleus Gallery. Opening reception: Feb. 22, 7-10 p.m., 210 E. Main St. For more information, phone 626-458-7477. Saturday, March 1 – Making a Living with your Webcomics$ Workshop at Nucleus Gallery. Opening reception: March 1, 1-5 p.m.,210 E. Main St. For more information, phone 626-458-7477.

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AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

2/2014

Automotive News | Auto Dealers, Repairs, Services

Popular Jeep Altitude models return for 2014 New special-edition Altitude models of the 2014 Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler were introduced Jan. 22 at the Houston Auto Show. Featuring unique “blacked-out” exteriors with a distinct and aggressive flair, the vehicles arrive in Jeep showrooms this spring – thanks to a positive consumer response from earlier Jeep Altitude models. Two years ago, Jeep introduced a production-intent concept Grand Cherokee at the Houston Auto Show, and connected with customers to name the model. More than 100,000 entries were submitted by Jeep enthusiasts, with Altitude emerging as the winning vehicle name. The brand then created a limited run of Altitude models across the Jeep lineup. “The unique ‘blacked-out’ theme of the Jeep Altitude models resonated so well with consumers two years ago that it makes perfect sense to bring them back now, particularly since we have new versions of the Cherokee and Grand Cherokee,” said Mike Manley, president and CEO – Jeep Brand, Chrysler Group LLC. “What began as a production-intent concept and naming contest generated significant buzz and evolved into a lineup of special-edition Jeep vehicles that appeal to many consumers – especially those wanting a very distinct, aggressive and edgy look.” The new, special-edition 2014 Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler Altitude models will arrive in Jeep showrooms this spring. Jeep Compass Altitude and Jeep Patriot Altitude models are available now. 2014 Jeep Cherokee Altitude Based on the Latitude model, the 2014 Jeep Cherokee Altitude is available in 4x2 or 4x4 configurations powered by either the 2.4-liter MultiAir®2 Tigershark I-4 engine with up to 31 mpg, or the 3.2-liter Pentastar V-6 engine, which delivers best-in-class 271 horsepower and towing capabilities of 4,500 lbs. Both engines are mated to the mid-size SUV segment-exclusive nine-speed automatic transmission.

2014 Jeep Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler debut special-edition Altitude models The Jeep Cherokee Altitude features a stealth-like appearance with gloss black grille surrounds, roof rails, front fascia lower applique and badging and a black daylight opening (DLO). Eighteen-inch gloss black painted aluminum wheels and a black interior complete the look. The limited-edition 2014 Jeep Cherokee Altitude is available in four exterior colors: Brilliant Black Crystal Metallic Clear Coat, Bright White Clear Coat, Billet Silver Metallic Clear Coat and Granite Crystal Metallic Clear Coat. 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude is based on the Laredo model and is available as a 4x2 or 4x4. The standard 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine produces 290 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque, and is mated to an all-new eight-speed automatic transmission, delivering up to 25 miles per gallon highway. Special exterior design cues include gloss black bezel

inserts for the front grille, fog lamp bezels, lower front fascia applique, badging, rear step pad surround and 20inch five-spoke aluminum wheels. Other unique exterior changes include halogen headlamps with black bezels, grey satin gloss tail lamp bezels, platinum chrome grille texture, bright dual exhaust tips, lower body-color fascias, wheel flares and side cladding, a body color antenna and an SRT-style roof rail. The interior features black Capri leather seats with perforated suede inserts and black stitching, a leather wrapped steering wheel with paddle shifters, standard 8.4-inch Uconnect touch screen and power sunroof. The Security and Convenience Group is also standard and includes remote start, auto-dimming rear view mirror, security alarm, 115 volt outlet, universal garage door opener, cargo cover, heated front seats, heated steering wheel, power liftgate, ParkView back-up camera and ParkSense rear back-up sensors. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

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Alhambra’s Auto Row News

Alhambra’s Auto Row celebrates 2014: specials, deals, promotions Alhambra’s auto companies and dealerships have new and pre-owned vehicles and parts for the community. From brand new car models to special deals and promotions, there is a lot of value to be found throughout the city. Each auto business guarantees personalized attention from the friendly staff while filling auto needs precisely. Drop in and take advantage of their special offers in February.

Sierra Acura of Alhambra’s friendly team is ready to serve the community with top-notch customer service. From left: Program Specialist Jordan Chen, Product Specialist Jeff Do, Product Specialist Jillian Paul, and General Manager Ed Netka.

Alhambra Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram’s General Manager Kelly Paul, left, presents a check to the San Gabriel High School PTSA President Roger Majano.

Alhambra Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram donated a check in the amount of $2,380 to the San Gabriel High School PTSA on Dec.18 at their monthly meeting. San Gabriel High took part in the “Drive for the Kids” charity event earlier this year, where parents were offered the opportunity to test drive vehicles and raise money for the school. “We are always thrilled to help our community,” said Alhambra CDJR GM, Kelly Paul. 1100 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-308-4500 • www.alhambracdjr.com Alhambra Nissan is offering long term financing on the 2014 Nissan Versa, 2014 Nissan Versa Note, 2013 Nissan Sentra, 2013 Nissan Juke, 2013 Nissan Frontier, and 2013 Nissan Cube. 726 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 866-760-0298 • www.alhambranissan.com CSC Tire & Auto Service is offering a “Buy one get a second at half off ” Valentine’s Day special on computer wheel alignment services. Offer applies to most cars and light trucks and will be valid throughout the month of February. Show some love for a spouse’s or significant other’s car. Also, CSC is offering a free car detail job on mechanical repair services of $300 or more. Offer is valid throughout the month of February. 2101 W. Valley Blvd. • Alhambra 91803 626-281-2501 • www.csctires.com Goudy Honda is honored to have Honda as one of 39 vehicles to receive the top safety ratings for 2014 from the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Honda had the most winners of any automaker with eight of its vehicles making the list. Goudy announces the Honda District is well on its way to hitting an all-time

Jeep Altitude CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

The 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee Altitude is available in Billet Silver, Bright White, Brilliant Black Metallic Coat, Deep Cherry, Granite Crystal and Maximum Steel. 2014 Jeep Wrangler Altitude Available in two-door and unlimited four-door models, the Wrangler Altitude is powered by a 3.6-liter Pentastar V-6 engine producing 285 horsepower and 260 lb.-ft. of torque. Mated to a standard sixspeed manual or available five-speed automatic transmission, Wrangler Altitude employs a Command Trac transfer case with 2.72:1 low range. A dual top with premium Sunrider soft top is optional.

sales record. This would be a triumph for not only the local California district, but for Honda as a whole as they aim to hit an all-time national sales record. 1400 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-576-1114 • www.goudyhonda.com Mazda of Alhambra has all 2014 models in stock including 2014 Mazda3 with 41 mpg, 2014 Mazda6 with 38mpg, 2014 Mazda CX-5 with 35 mpg, and financing as low as 0.9% APR. Special leases are also available. Please visit the dealership’s Web site: www.mazdaofalhambra.com. 1200 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-576-2800 • www.mazdaofalhambra.com. Sierra Acura of Alhambra invites the public to experience its flagship vehicles: the 2014 RLX and MDX. Sierra Acura was awarded 2014 Best in Class for the luxury compact SUV and luxury midsize SUV by US News. In April, Sierra Acura will display the new prototype TLX at the Detroit Auto Show. Visit the Web site to check out the Valentine’s Day specials: www.sierraacura.com. 1700 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801 626-284-8533 • www.sierraacura.com Volkswagen Alhambra is offering a free key chain with a 20k, 30k, or 40k service in the service department with mention of this article. Volkswagen vehicles only please. 1811 W. Main Street • Alhambra 91801 626-407-0500 • www.vwalhambra.com

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AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

2/2014

Golf R, the most powerful version of the Golf ever to be sold in this market.

New Volkswagen Golf R makes its U.S. debut at the 2014 NAIA Show The North American International Auto Show will see the U.S. debut of the latest Golf R, the most powerful version of the Golf ever to be sold in this market. With an estimated 290 horsepower, the new Golf R has 34 hp more than the previous version, which was sold as a 2013 model. Despite the additional horsepower, the new R model is expected to be considerably more fuel-efficient than its predecessor with a manufacturer estimated highway fuel economy rating of 31 mpg with the six-speed manual transmission, up from 27 mpg. Like all three previous Golf R models, the new model transfers its turbocharged power to the road via a permanent allwheel-drive system, in this case, the latest version of the 4MOTION® system with a fifth-generation Haldex® coupling. To ensure great chassis dynamics, there’s a new sport suspension, the “pro-

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gressive” variable-ratio steering system, and a stability control system (“ESC Sport”) which can now be deactivated for track driving. Other highlights include the optional DCC dynamic chassis control system. Equipped with a six-speed manual transmission, the Golf R will reach 62 mph from rest in 5.3 seconds, an improvement of 0.4 seconds over the old car; with the six-speed DSG® dual-clutch automatic transmission, the car completes the sprint in just 4.9 seconds. The new Golf R is equipped with an extensive package of exclusive features. Along with specially designed bumpers, side skirts, and 18-inch aluminum-alloy wheels, the Golf R can also be visually distinguished from the GTI by details such as standard Bi-Xenon headlights with newly designed LED daytime running lights (in a dual-U design) and a twobranch exhaust system.

2/2014

AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

The all-new 2014 Mazda3 is built with the award-winning SKYACTIV® Technology.

Mazda earns multiple Best Value Awards from Kiplinger’s Personal Finance The 2014 Mazda3, Mazda6 and CX-5 were named on Jan. 22 as the best values in their respective classes by Kiplinger’s Personal Finance. As further proof that the brand’s SKYACTIV® Technology engineering produces real-world results, the Mazda triple threat includes recently redesigned models that comprised more than 80% of the brand’s 2013 vehicle sales. Offering dynamic performance, some of the best fuel economies and leading-edge technology on both safety and in-car connectivity, the best is yet to come. “The Mazda brand is large on offering luxury – meaning best-in-class fuel economy, superior materials, forwardthinking technologies, award-winning

design and unbeatable performance – at an affordable price,” said Jim O’Sullivan, president and CEO, Mazda North American Operations (MNAO). “Value also is of utter importance, and is something we proudly offer consumers. Premium craftsmanship and advanced materials should no longer be reserved only for those with deep pockets.” The Best Value Awards are part of Kiplinger’s Annual Car Buyer’s Guide, which sorts vehicles by price and segment, ranking each one on performance, safety and value-minded qualities including residual pricing and fuel economy.

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AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

2/2014

Ford teams with MIT, Stanford in automated driving research Building on the automated Ford Fusion Hybrid research vehicle unveiled last month, Ford is announcing new projects with Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Stanford University to research and develop solutions to some of the technical challenges surrounding automated driving. Automated driving is a key component of Ford’s Blueprint for Mobility, which outlines what transportation will look like in 2025 and beyond, along with the technologies, business models and partnerships needed to get there. With its automated Fusion Hybrid research vehicle, Ford is exploring potential solutions for the longerterm societal, legislative and technological issues posed by a future of fully automated driving. “To deliver on our vision for the future of mobility, we need to work with many new partners across the public and private sectors, and we need to start today,” said Paul Mascarenas, chief technical officer and vice president, Ford research and innovation. “Working with university partners like MIT and Stanford enables us to address some of the longer-term challenges surrounding automated driving while exploring more near-term solutions for de-

Automated Fusion Hybrid research vehicle. livering an even safer and more efficient driving experience.” Furthering automated driving research (Ford’s automated Fusion Hybrid research vehicle is unique in that it first uses the same technology already in Ford vehicles in dealer showrooms, then adds four

LiDAR sensors to generate a real-time 3D map of the vehicle’s surrounding environment. While the vehicle can sense objects around it using the LiDAR sensors, Ford’s research with MIT uses advanced algorithms to help the vehicle learn to predict

where moving vehicles and pedestrians could be in the future. This scenario planning provides the vehicle with a better sense of the surrounding risks, enabling it to plan a path that will safely avoid pedestrians, vehicles and other moving objects. Working with Stanford, Ford is exploring how the sensors could see around obstacles. Typically, when a driver’s view is blocked by an obstacle like a big truck, the driver will maneuver within the lane to take a peek around it and see what is ahead. Similarly, this research would enable the sensors to “take a peek ahead” and make evasive maneuvers if needed. For example, if the truck ahead slammed on its brakes, the vehicle would know if the area around it is clear to safely change lanes. “Our goal is to provide the vehicle with common sense,” said Greg Stevens, global manager for driver assistance and active safety, Ford research and innovation. “Drivers are good at using the cues around them to predict what will happen next, and they know that what you can’t see is often as important as what you can see. Our goal in working with MIT and Stanford is to bring a similar type of intuition to the vehicle.”

Lincoln Navigator boasts mileage, towing gains with new engine, lighter vehicle F ROM T HE D ETROIT N EWS

Lincoln’s modestly upgraded Navigator sports changes to the interior, exterior and powertrain, but no major changes to the materials that form the body of the 17-yearold nameplate. The upgrade will allow Lincoln to keep pace in the full-size luxury SUV segment until the Navigator’s next overhaul in 2016. Despite the modest overhaul, Lincoln claims the Navigator — the highest-priced offering in the luxury brand’s growing lineup — will top its segment in fuel economy,

towing and cargo space. The updated 2015 Navigator will be unveiled to the public at the Chicago Auto Show on Feb. 6 and will go on sale this fall. Pricing and fuel economy figures are not yet available, though the SUV will likely have a similar starting price to the current model — about $57,000 — and Lincoln officials asserted the vehicle will have “unsurpassed” fuel economy among its competitors. The biggest change for the new Navigator is under the hood, where the standard engine will be Ford’s 3.5-liter

EcoBoost V-6, replacing a 5.4-liter V-8. That engine should produce at least 370 horsepower and 430 pound-feet of torque, Lincoln officials say. Lincoln says fuel efficiency will top the 14 miles per gallon city, 20 mpg highway of the current V-8, and top all other segment competitors, including the revamped Cadillac Escalade and the Infiniti QX80 (formerly the QX56). Included is extensive use of aluminum to lighten each approximately 6,000-pound SUV by 250 to 750 pounds to meet federal fuel efficiency standards.

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REAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

2/2014

Real Estate News

| Residential, Commercial, Loans

Home sales slow down B Y L EE L IEBERG

The number of homes sold in Alhambra dropped by 6% in 2013. The main reasons for the decline in the number of transactions were a shortage of homes for sale, rising real estate prices, and rising interest rates. While the news is not good for buyers, low inventory and higher prices represent an improved opportunity for sellers. Having fewer homes for sale is likely to lead to a drop in sales and according to the California Association of Realtors, the number of homes currently for sale is down 54% from historical averages. This tight supply has been evident in Alhambra where there are 34 homes for sale. Last year, we averaged 17 homes sold each month. A balanced market would have 102 homes for sale to sustain 17 sales a month. As buyers outnumber sellers, we continue to see multiple offers and about one in three homes is bid up over the listing price. This higher demand has led to higher prices as the median home price in Alhambra has risen more than 20% from a year ago. Sellers are finding themselves with more cash, and most are turning around to buy another home. Contributing to the lower supply is that fewer home owners are being forced to sell. Previously, many home owners were under water in their mortgages,

Making predictions in what is still a somewhat volatile housing market can be tricky. That being said, I am going to give you what I believe will be the three biggest headlines for housing in 2014. Home sales will surge Many housing pundits are calling for home sales to do slightly better in 2014 than they did in 2013. To the contrary, I strongly believe that home sales will skyrocket with increases of 10-15% in 2014. Supply will struggle to meet demand With a dramatic increase in demand, it will be up to real estate professionals and builders to make sure there is the nec-

country of origin being China followed by Mexico and then Canada. The other trend we continue to see is the growing number of investors buying real estate. Investors purchased nearly one in five

homes in 2013 in California. If you are thinking about selling, there are several factors working in your favor, not the least of which are higher prices and low inventory.

DECEMBER TRANSACTION SUMMARY # Homes Sold 19 22 Homes

December 2013 December 2012 Listed 1/7

Median Price 525,000 405,000 Condos

# Condos Sold 15 14

Median Price 435,000 370,000

/13

34

26

*Data was obtained from Multi-Regional MLS Alliance and deemed to be reliable.

Lee Lieberg can be reached at 626-826-1120 or [email protected]

Phone Lee Lieberg at 626-826-1120 or e-mail [email protected]. which led to short sales and foreclosures. The reduction of these distressed sales is a sign of a more stable real estate market. Hurting both buyers and sellers is that interest rates are climbing. Fixed rate 30 year mortgages are around 4.5% compared to 3.25% a year ago. While this is a significant increase in the cost of financing, it may be even more costly in the future as few expect interest rates to go back down and they likely will continue to rise. Two additional real estate trends in California are also affecting our market in Alhambra. First, sales to foreign buyers are rising, with the number one

Housing prediction for 2014: Home sales will surge this year B Y R UDY L IRA K USUMA , REALTOR ™

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essary inventory to satisfy this demand. This will be a challenge for much of the year. Interest rates to increase significantly Most experts are calling for an increase in mortgage interest rates in 2014. However, I believe the increase will be more dramatic than is being projected. I believe rates will be closer to 6% than 5% by year’s end. Rudy L. Kusuma, a licensed real estate broker CA BRE# 01820322, is affiliated with RE/ MAX in Alhambra, Arcadia, San Marino, Pasadena, Hacienda Heights, Rowland Heights, and Ontario offices. He can be reached by telephone at 888-288-0126, or see his Web site www.TeamNuVision.net.

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PAGE 22B

REAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

2/2014

The French Olympic Team at Alhambra’s Pyrenees Castle B Y G ARY F RUEHOLZ D ILBECK R EAL E STATE

As the eyes of the world are directed to Sochi, Russia, for the XXII Winter Olympic games this February, one is reminded of the transcending attraction and power of the Olympics. Nations and their people compete and acquaint themselves through the Olympics in a way no other event can do. Historically, wars were temporarily stopped during the original Olympics two millennia ago so nations could compete in the Olympic games. Southern California has hosted the Olympic games twice in Los Angeles, during the summers of 1932 and 1984. On top of providing sports venues for the competitions, organizing the Olympics includes providing accommodations such as housing and dining for the Olympians and their organizing committees. With Los Angeles’s first experience in the Olympics, Alhambra earned a small footnote in Olympic history with the benefit of the Pyrenees Castle

Understanding Real Estate Gary Frueholz

D ILBECK R EAL E STATE 626-318-9436 Gary Frueholz is a Realtor with Dilbeck Real Estate, a past member of the Alhambra Planning Commission, and a certified Senior Real Estate Specialist. Mr. Frueholz can be reached at 626-318-9436 or by e-mail at [email protected]. To see all of Gary’s articles on Alhambra, visit www.garysstories.com.

and a tightly knit local French American community. First of all, a little history on the Pyrenees Castle also known as the “Castle” or “the Hill” among family members of the original owners and the local community: Sitting on top of a hill in southwest Alhambra at 1700 Grand View Drive is a classic mansion that would seem more suited for Beverly Hills or Brentwood. The Pyrenees Castle was constructed in a French Chateau architectural style with elaborate red tile roofs, beauti-

With Los Angeles’s first experience in the Olympics, Alhambra earned a small footnote in Olympic history with the benefit of the Pyrenees Castle and a tightly knit local French American community.

Gary Frueholz

ful spires, a grand entry way with marbled flooring, magnificent chandeliers, a courtyard with a water fountain, and three-story tall turrets that make it look all the more imposing. The Pyrenees Castle still exists, and although it is protected by security gates, it can be viewed from a distance as you travel along Fremont Avenue and look west toward Cal State University Los Angeles. The red tile roofs can be seen between the various pine trees that surround it. The County Recorder lists the livable space at 8,686 square feet with eight bedrooms, 10 bathrooms, and a lot covering 2.66 acres. Sylvester Dupuy built the Pyrenees Castle in 1925 as a replica of a chateau he had admired as a young boy growing up in southern France near the Pyrenees mountain range which separates France from Spain. Dupuy had been successful in the Alhambra area with agriculture and livestock, where he owned a large tract of land and 5,000 sheep. Dupuy hired John Walter Smart, who had designed the Alhambra post office, to create his dream home, which used flooring made of maple from the original Alhambra High School. The castle had tremendous potential for entertaining and housing a large family. Sylvester Dupuy’s talented wife, Anna, had professionally cooked and possessed the skill to successfully organize large gettogethers. “She could throw a really big dinner,” said Frank

Dupuy, grandson of Sylvester, who was 9 years old during the 1932 Olympics. “She knew what to do.” During this period, Los Angeles enjoyed a closely integrated French American community. “There was a French community in Los Angeles that was closely knit and stayed in communication with each other,” said Felix Dupuy, the younger brother of Frank.

And as the local French American community developed an appreciation of the magnificent castle and the Olympics approached, the stage was set for the Pyrenees Castle to become involved with the 1932 Olympics. “Apparently the French people in Los Angeles in the ‘30s were a tight knit group and they ‘put out feelers’ and CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

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2/2014

REAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA

1932 French Olympic Team was housed at Alhambra’s Pyrenees Castle CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE invited them (French Olympians and the French Olympic Organizing Committee) to the castle,” said Lisa Dupuy, the daughter-in-law of Frank Dupuy, in an e-mail to me. “The officials of the French Olympic team came over a couple of times, during the Olympics, to have dinner” said Felix Dupuy. “The castle had a great dining and living room (for this).” Felix added that his grandmother was generally entertaining 25 to 30 guests at these Olympic dinners in the Pyrenees Castle. And in gratitude, the Dupuy family received passes to various Olympic events from the French team. Frank Dupuy said that along with the French officials, various athletes came for dinners, such as the French Olympic rowing team. The French crew team included Pierre Brunet, Anselme Brusa, and Andre’ Giriat, who won the bronze Olympic medal in the men’s coxed pair races. Frank said that one of the French Olympians seemed to have taken a liking to an aunt of his and gave her a bronze statue. “But she didn’t reciprocate,” Frank added. The Dupuy family sold the castle in the 1940s, and it worked its way through a number of owners over the years including record producer Phil Spector. But the Pyrenees Castle probably never enjoyed a more spectacular time than when it entertained the French Olympic team during the 1932 Los Angeles Summer Olympic Games. Special thanks to Denis Kerechuk for his contributions to this story. Gary Frueholz is a realtor with Dilbeck Real Estate, a past member of the Alhambra Planning Commission, and a certified Senior Real Estate Specialist. He can be reached at 626-318-9436.

PAGE 23B

Can I roll a retirement plan distribution to an IRA? If you’re asking this question, you probably have a 401(k) or other retirement plan through a former employer. The short answer is yes. Most retirement plans allow you to roll your plan funds over into an IRA after you’ve left your employer’s service. However, there is more than one way to do a rollover, and how you do it can be critical. In most cases, your best strategy is to do a direct rollover. This is a direct transfer of funds from your employer-sponsored plan to your IRA. The administrator of your employer-sponsored plan may send the check right to the trustee of the IRA you have selected. That way, the money never passes through your hands. Alternatively, the plan administrator may give the check to you to deliver to the IRA trustee. This also qualifies as a direct rollover as long as the check isn’t

Wall Street On Main Street 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 [email protected].

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. Prepared by Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc. Copyright 2014.

made payable to you. Instead, it should be made payable to the IRA trustee for your benefit. A direct rollover will avoid tax consequences and penalties. You can also do an indirect rollover, but it’s rarely a good idea. Here, the check is made payable to you. When you receive the check, you cash it and deposit the funds in the new IRA within 60 days. The big drawback: Before releasing your plan funds to you, the plan administrator is required to withhold 20% of the taxable amount for federal income tax. To make sure you deposit the correct amount, you must replace this 20% out of your own pocket. However,

if you properly follow all the IRS rules for rollovers, you will avoid tax consequences and can get back the amount withheld for taxes when you file your annual income tax return. You can roll your distribution into either a traditional IRA or Roth IRA. If you roll the funds over into a Roth IRA, often called a “conversion,” you’ll include the taxable portion of the distribution in your taxable income in the year you roll the funds over. Finally, you may not be allowed to roll over certain types of retirement plan distributions into an IRA. Consult a tax professional for details.

PAGE 24B

AROUND ALHAMBRA

12/2013