SECTION B

lifecommunityseniors / healthdining / entertainmentauto / real estate

PUBLISHED BY THE ALHAMBRA CHAMBER OF COMMERCEDECE

MBER

2013 AROUND

ALHAMBRA

It’s the season for holiday feasts and merriment.Let the local eateries host the holiday celebrations.Friendly staff, delicious meals, and holiday deals areavailable throughout Alhambra. See Pages 14B-18Bfor restaurant advertisements.

Try Alhambra’s restaurants for holiday meals

Waitress Jessica Flores of 28 West.

Downtown Alhambra’s annual Tree Lighting Ceremonywill offer free photos with Santa, music, and compli-mentary refreshments from 5:30-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 6,at Renaissance Plaza, located on the northeast corner ofGarfield and Main. Santa will arrive by fire truck tolight the Christmas tree at 6 p.m. See Page 28B.

Renaissance PlazaHosts Tree Lighting

28 West28 West is hosting December celebrations. Book a

corporate holiday party with accommodations for upto 150 guests. Customize the food selections, or choosefrom delicious dinner menu options.

Join 28 West for its first monthly pint night featur-ing Bootlegger’s Brewery. See Web site for details.

28 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-281-1777 • www.facebook.com/twentyeight.west

38 Degrees38 Degrees invites the community to its festive

Christmas Eve happy hour from 3 to 8 p.m. 21 andover only please.

38 Degrees will be open Christmas Eve from 11a.m.-midnight with the kitchen closing at 5 p.m. Itwill offer a special appetizer menu from 5-8 p.m.. Itwill open New Year’s Eve from 11 a.m.-2 a.m.

100 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-282-2038 • www.38degreesalhambra.com

Almansor CourtAlmansor Court is hosting its Champagne Sun-

day Brunch. For discount coupons and reservationsvisit www.almansorcourt.com.

700 S. Almansor St. • Alhambra 91801626-570-4600 • www.almansorcourt.com

The GridsThe Grids restaurant will offer free dessert waffles

with the purchase of any two savory waffle sandwichesthrough Dec. 31. The Grids invites the community to“celebrate the holiday season, and we look forward toseeing you in our restaurant soon.”

1468 E. Valley Blvd. • Alhambra 91801626-289-4000

Grill ‘Em AllGrill ‘Em All, at the Renaissance Plaza (Edwards

Theatre), is offering a half pound cheeseburger, fries,and soft drink for $10 Monday through Friday at lunchhours. Celebrate this holiday season by eating massiveburgers with friends and family.

Grill ‘Em All will be open Christmas Eve from 11a.m.-4 p.m. and closed on Christmas day, New Year’sEve, and New Year’s day.

19 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-284-2874 • www.grillemalltruck.com

Hot Red BusHot Red Bus offers a $25 gift certificate for a friend

with an extra $5 for the customer. Buy a $50 giftcertificate for Mum, and get $10 extra for the buyer.Happy Holidays, mates.

Hot Red Bus will be closed Christmas and NewYear’s Day with limited hours on Christmas Eve.

31 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-576-2877 • www.hotredbus.com

Marie Callender’sMarie Callender’s has its customary holiday pie

specials plus offering Christmas feasts from $99.99-$169.99 with turkey breast or prime rib feasts thatserve up to eight people.

Marie Callender’s will be open Christmas Eve from9 a.m.-8 p.m., on Christmas day from noon-8 p.m.and New Year’s Eve from 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

220 S. Atlantic Blvd. • Monterey Park 91754626-281-9548 • www.mariecallenders.com

Rick’s Main Street CafeRick’s Main Street Cafe will offer its usual menu

for the holidays with Saturday night gatherings aroundrock band performances. See Page 16B.

Rick’s will be open Christmas Eve and Christmasday from 7 a.m.-7 p.m. and New Year’s Eve from 6:30a.m.-9 p.m.

132 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-576-8519

SaladFarmSaladFarm is offering buy one item and get the

second item (equal or lesser value) for 50% off in theevening hours from 4 p.m. to closing all week longuntil Dec. 31.

SaladFarm will be open Christmas Eve and NewYear’s Eve from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. but closed Christmasand New Year’s Day.

301 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-500-0010 • www.saladfarmrestaurants.com

Charlie’s TrioCharlie’s Trio will save families time this holiday

season by cooking the holiday meals. Stop in today tolearn about their holiday meal packages.

The restaurant will be open Christmas Eve from11 a.m.-4 p.m., closed Christmas Day, open New Year’sEve from 11 a.m.-10 p.m., and open New Year’s Dayfrom 4-10 p.m.

47 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-284-4943 • www.charliestriocafe.com

Denny’sDenny’s is open 24 hours a day for Christmas Eve,

Christmas Day, and New Year’s Eve.369 W. Main Street • Alhambra 91801626-281-6701 • www.dennys.com

Diner on MainDiner on Main specializes in baked-from-scratch

holiday cakes, pies, cupcakes and bread. “Don’t forgetto order your holiday baked goods,” restaurant ownerRandy Hoffman said. For details, see the ad on Page15B. Diner on Main is open until 9 p.m. on Christ-mas Eve but is closed Christmas Day. The restaurantis open on New Year’s Eve.

201 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-281-3488

El Patio TepeyacEl Patio Tepeyac has a daily lunch special with one

taco and beans, or one enchilada with rice and beansfor $5.25. The restaurant also hosts a brand new happyhour from 3-5 p.m. with Micheladas for $4, domesticbeers for $2, imported beers for $2.50, and two-for-one margaritas.

El Patio Tepeyac will be open Christmas Eve andNew Years Eve from 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and closedChristmas and New Year’s day.

800 S. Palm Ave. • Alhambra 91803626-308-3866

Deck the halls at Charlie’s Trio.

CONTINUED: SEE MORE

RESTAURANTS ON PAGE 3BSee advertisments, Pages 14-18B

CHURCH / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 2

CHRISTMAS IN ALHAMBRA

Advent is a Latin term meaning “to come to” and it is a time in the church to worship ourLord as we prepare our hearts for the coming of the King. The birth of Jesus that we cel-ebrate at Christmas is the message that light has come into the world and the world willnever be the same. It’s a time for worshippers to slow down, reflect, and remember the storyof God sending His Son to earth to save the souls of men. Worship the King who has come tobe the light of the world this advent season.

In this complex and hurried world, it is so easy to let our consumption-driven culturedefine Christmas in a way that makes purchasing rather than spiritual reflection the prin-ciple theme of the season. For this very reason, Christians have, for hundreds of years, madeuse of Advent Candles, especially as we share the meaning of Christmas with our children.

These candles are simple reminders, grounded in texts of Scripture, that offer us all anopportunity to slow down, to reflect on God’s great plan of redemption, and to rejoice againto see the promise of God fulfilled in the birth of Jesus Christ, our Savior, our Lord and ourGod.

Christmas WorshipAnnouncements

Bethany Church21 N. Olive Ave. Alhambra, worships

at 10:30 a.m. Sundays. The public isinvited to phone 626-282-9124 forinformation about special Christmasevents.

St. Therese Church1100 E. Alhambra Road, Alhambra,

phone 626-282-2744. Christmas EveMasses at 5 p.m., 7:30 p.m. and mid-night with special music beginningat 11 p.m. Christmas Day masses at7:30 a.m., 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. andLatin High Mass at 1 p.m. No 5 p.m.mass on Christmas Day. See Page 5B

First UnitedMethodist Churchof Alhambra9 N. Almansor St., Alhambra, 626-

289-4258.Christmas Eve. Candelight and Carol

Service: 6 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 24

First Baptist Churchof AlhambraSunday Advent worship services begin

at 10:30 a.m. in the Worship CenterSunday, Dec. 1 - Prophecy Candle.Sunday, Dec. 8 - Bethlehem Candle.

Children’s choir presents Star of Won-der.

Shepherd’s Candle. Adult Choir pre-sents This Shining Night.

Sunday, Dec. 22 - Angel Candle.Tuesday, Dec. 24 - 5:30 p.m. Christ-

mas Eve worship.Sunday, Dec. 29 - The Visit of the Magi.The church is located at 101 S. Atlantic

Blvd. The phone is 626-570-1511.Childcare is provided during worshipfor children from infants throughkindergarten.

Mandarin BaptistChurch of Los Angeles110 W. Woodward Ave., Alhambra.

626-282-2467.Sunday Worship Services are at 9 a.m.

(English); 11 a.m. Cantonese; 9 a.m.11 a.m. and 5 p.m. Mandarin.

Praise Worship, Christmas Cantatas,and special messages are planned forall services on Sunday, Dec. 22.

Christmas Eve worship including car-ols, hand bells, Childrens Choir andChoral Ensembles are for 7 p.m.Tuesday, Dec. 24.

CHURCH / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 312/2013

ShakasShakas will offer one free appetizer with a purchase of

two entrees. This offer is only available after†4 p.m.,†andcustomers must mention this article during the month ofDecember.

Shakas will be open Christmas Eve from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.,and closed Christmas day and New Year’s day.

101 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-293-5520 • www.shakas.com

Steven’sSteak and Seafood

Steven’s Steak and Seafood house is now offering pri-vate bookings for company holiday parties from 7 to 700people. “We look forward to serving the community.”

Steven’s will be open Christmas Eve, Christmas Day,and New Year’s Day from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. for lunch andfrom 4 p.m.-midnight for dinner.

5332 Stevens Place • Commerce 90040323-723-9856 • www.stevenssteakhouse.com

TwoheysTwoheys is serving freshly baked holiday pies and cakes

along with their tasty sundaes.Twoheys will be closed Christmas day with limited

hours on Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. On NewYears day the restaurant will be open from 7 a.m.-11 p.m.

1224 N. Atlantic Blvd. • Alhambra 91801626-284-7387 • www.twoheys.com

Wahib’sWahib’s Middle East Restaurant has catering and ban-

quet meals available for all Christmas and New Year’s Eveoccasions. “Happy holidays from our friendly staff atWahib’s.”

Wahib’s will be open on Christmas Eve, Christmas Day,and New Year’s Eve from 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Happy holidaysfrom the friendly staff at Wahib’s.

910 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-281-1006 • www.wahibmiddleeast.com

Wendy’sFor a limited time, Wendy’s is offering a special Bacon

Portobello Melt sandwich on a buttery, sweet brioche bun.Purchase any large sandwich or combo and receive a freesmall Frosty until Dec. 31.

245 S. Atlantic Blvd. • Alhambra 91801626-282-7349 • www.wendys.com

Try Alhambra’s restaurants for holiday mealsCONTINUED FROM PAGE 1B Vino at Trio’s

Vino at Trio’s is offering unique, last minute gift pack-ages with bottles of wine.

Vino at Trio’s will be open Christmas Eve from 11 a.m.-4 p.m., closed Christmas Day, open New Year’s Eve from11 a.m.-10 p.m., and open New Year’s Day from 4 p.m.-10 p.m.

10 N. First St. • Alhambra 91801626-284-4674 • www.vinotrios.com

Havana HouseHavana House Cigars & Lounge invites Alhambra

residents to take advantage of 10% discounts on retailpurchases during the holidays.

133 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-576-0547 • www.havanahousecigars.comm

EveryChristmaspresents specialopportunitiesto those whoseek a deepermeaning.

Join the pageant

CHRISTMAS IS

FIND HIM.

CHURCH / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 4

The St. Therese Parish was officiallyfounded on Dec. 25, 1924, the result ofthe efforts of two Carmelite Priests fromIreland, Fr. Bernard and Fr. Cyril, sent toAmerica to open a new parish and schoolfor the Discalced Carmelite Apostolate.

It is named in honor of St. Therese ofthe Child Jesus, a Carmelite nun, who atthat time had only been deceased for 27years and would be canonized less thanfive months later by Pope Pius XI on May17, 1925.

A history of the church is told in anadvertisment on Page 5B.

Discalced Carmelites are men andwomen, in religious orders and lay people,who dedicate themselves to a life ofprayer. Carmelite nuns live in cloistered(enclosed) monasteries and follow a com-pletely contemplative life.

Carmelite friars, while following a con-templative life are also involved in pro-moting spirituality through retreat cen-ters, parishes and churches. Lay people,known as the Secular Order, follow theircontemplative call in their everyday ac-

tivities. Carmelite friars symbolize theirdevotion by wearing a brown scapular, asleeveless outer garment.

Carmelites trace their roots and nameto Mount Carmel in the Holy Land. There,in the 13th century, a band of Europeanmen gathered together to live a simple lifeof prayer.

Their first chapel was dedicated to theBlessed Virgin Mary. They called them-selves the Brothers of the Blessed VirginMary of Mount Carmel.

The first Carmelites came as pilgrimsto Mount Carmel to live a solitary lifestyle.Discalced literally means bare-footed.

These early hermits were mostly laity,who lived an unofficial religious life ofpoverty, penance and prayer. Between1206 and 1214, St. Albert, Patriarch ofJerusalem, brought the hermits on MountCarmel together, at their request, intocommunity.

Albert wrote them a formula for liv-ing, which expressed their own intentionand reflected the spirit of the pilgrimageto the Holy Land and of the early com-

munity of Jerusalem.They were also inspired by the prophet

Elijah who had been associated withMount Carmel. That influence can beseen by the words of Elijah, “I have beenvery zealous for the Lord, God of armies”(IKg 19:10) on the Carmelite crest.

Within 50 years of receiving their rulethe Carmelite hermits were forced to leaveMount Carmel and settled in Europe.

According to the Irish Province of theOrder of Carmelites, with regard to a re-ligious order, the term charism refers to adistinguishing characteristic of eachChristian religious family and the particu-lar way in which its members are calledto follow Christ.

The heart of the Carmelite charism isprayer and contemplation. The quality ofprayer determines the quality of the com-munity life and the quality of the servicewhich is offered to others.

Prayer and contemplation for theCarmelite are not private matters betweenthe individual and God but are to beshared with others since the charism is

given for the whole world. Therefore thereis an emphasis in the Order on the minis-try of teaching prayer and giving spiritualdirection.

For a Carmelite, prayer is guided by theteachings and experience of St. Teresa ofAvila and St. John of the Cross, as well asthe saints who have followed in their steps,such as St. Therese of the Child Jesus andof the Holy Face, Blessed Elizabeth of theTrinity, St. Teresa of the Andes, and mar-tyrs like Edith Stein (St. Teresa Benedictaof the Cross), Pére Jacques and the 16Martyrs of Compiegne.

Fraternity, service and contemplationare essential values for all Carmelites. Eachday is marked by silence for prayer.

In addition to the daily celebration ofthe full Liturgy of the Hours, two hoursare set aside for uninterrupted silentprayer. Communities are kept fairly small.The friars practice a broadly based disci-pline of study.

This information borrowed and com-piled from online sources.

Christmas Day 1924 was day of founding for Alhambra’s St. Therese ParishChristmas Day an anniversary of many beginnings

Dear Residents of Alhambra,As we get nearer to celebrating the

Feast of Christmas, I am reminded ofChristmases-Past with my family. EveryThanksgiving my father would climbinto the attic with my three older broth-ers and bring down the lights for Christ-mas.

Then, all of the kids would unravelthe lights across the front yard. One byone, my father would check each lightto make sure it was working properly.Of course, we would remove the bro-ken bulbs and then replace them withthe right color.

Eventually, my father and my broth-ers would carefully hang the lightsaround the entire house. Once the lightswere up, the anticipation for Christmasbecame so strong that we could barelycontain our joy!

I admit that my enthusiasm forChristmas was largely due to the pre-

sents and toys we would receive on De-cember 25. But as we get older, our an-ticipation for Christmas changes. Ad-vent, the four weeks preceding Christ-mas, is the time to remember that theBirth of Jesus is the true reason for ourexcitement for Christmas.

While preparing our homes and ourfamilies for the Christmas festivities, wewould do well to take inventory of whatworks and what is broken in our lives.

The Season of Advent is a perfecttime to unpack and unravel our hecticlives. We all have “broken bulbs” to re-place!

This Advent I encourage each of youto unpack, unravel, and fix what isn’tworking in your lives, so you can let oth-ers see the Light of Christ shiningthrough you. God love you!

Happy Advent and Merry Christmas!– Fr. Philip Sullivan, O.C.D. Pastor of St. Therese Church

Time to unpack and unravel our hectic lives

Reflections on Advent

Traditional and Contemporary Sa-cred Music graces the Christmas Sea-son starting at 11p.m. Dec. 24 beforethe Midnight Mass at St. Therese ofLiseaux Catholic Church at 1100 E.Alhambra Road in Alhambra.

Under the artistic direction ofGeorge E. Klump, accompanied by ac-complished organist, Barbara J. Klump,the Adult Choir and soloists will singsuch inspirational favorites as the alto-

soprano aire He Shall Feed HisFlock from Handel’s Messiah as wellas other sacred music by noted con-temporary composers and arrangerssuch as Gustav Holst, John Gardner,Paul Manz and Robert Shaw and AliceParker. Seating for this free programwill be first come.

For more information, visit the Website www.sttheresechurchalhambra.org

Special music announced for 11 p.m.to preceed Christmas Midnight Massat St. Therese Catholic Church

Church namesake, St. Therese, knownas ‘the little flower,’ has deep connectionwith Christmas, roses, prayer, devotionSOURCE: WWW.LITTLEFLOWER.ORG/ABOUTTHERESE/LEARN/

The life and message of St. Therese, forwhom many Roman Catholic churchesincluding Alhambra’s are named, is beau-tiful, inspiring, and simple.

Therese Martin was the last of ninechildren born to Louis and Zelie Martinon Jan. 2, 1873, in Alencon, France. Onlyfive of these children lived to adulthood.Precocious and sensitive, Therese neededmuch attention. Her mother died whenshe was 4 years old. As a result, her fatherand sisters babied young Therese.

At the age of 14, on Christmas Eve in1886, Therese had a conversion that trans-formed her life. From then on, her pow-erful energy and sensitive spirit wereturned toward love, instead of keepingherself happy. At 15, she entered theCarmelite convent in Lisieux to give herwhole life to God.

She took the religious name SisterTherese of the Child Jesus and the HolyFace. Living a hidden, simple life of prayer,she was gifted with great intimacy withGod. Through sickness and dark nightsof doubt and fear, she remained faithfulto God, rooted in His merciful love. Aftera long struggle with tuberculosis, she diedon Sept. 30, 1897, at the age of 24. Herlast words were the story of her life: “MyGod, I love You!”

Upon her death, the nuns in Lisieuxreceived permission to distributeTherese’s autobiography, compiled frommaterial that she had written at the com-mand of her superiors and the request ofone of her sisters in the monastery. Pub-lished on the first anniversary of her deathas “The Story of a Soul,” the initial print-ing of 2,000 copies quickly sold out.

In the following years, hundreds ofthousands of copies of her autobiographywere printed, and it was translated intomany languages.

The world came to know Theresethrough Story of a Soul, a spiritualautobiograhy. She described her life as a“little way of spiritual childhood.” Shelived each day with an unshakable confi-dence in God’s love.”“What matters inlife,” she wrote, “is not great deeds, butgreat love.” Therese lived and taught a

At the age of 14, on Christmas Eve in 1886,Therese had a conversion that transformedher life.

spirituality of attending to everyone andeverything well and with love. She be-lieved that just as a child becomes enam-ored with what is before her, we shouldalso have a childlike focus and totally at-tentive love. Therese’s spirituality is ofdoing the ordinary, with extraordinarylove. Therese saw the seasons as reflect-ing the seasons of God’s love affair withus.

She loved flowers and saw herself as the“little flower of Jesus,” who gave glory toGod by just being her beautiful little selfamong all the other flowers in God’s gar-den. Because of this beautiful analogy, thetitle “little flower” remained with St.Therese. Her inspiration and powerfulpresence from heaven touched manypeople very quickly. She was canonized byPope Pius XI on May 17, 1925. It was only52 years after her birth that she was de-clared a Saint.

“My mission – to make God loved –will begin after my death,” she said. “I willspend my heaven doing good on earth. Iwill let fall a shower of roses.” Roses havebeen described and experienced as SaintTherese’s signature.

Countless millions claim to have beentouched by her intercession and imitateher “little way.” She has been acclaimed“the greatest saint of modern times.”

In 1997, Pope John Paul II declared St.Therese a Doctor of the Church – the onlyDoctor named during his pontificate – intribute to the powerful way her spiritual-ity has influenced people all over theworld.

CHURCH / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 512/2013

The Carmelite Friars of St. Therese Churchinvite you to attend one of our Christmas Masses

Christmas Eve Christmas Day

1100 E. Alhambra Road,Alhambra CA 91801

(626) 282-2744www.sttheresechurchalhambra.org

St. ThereseChurch

7:30 a.m.9:00 a.m.

& 11:00 a.m.

�AND

a Latin HighMass at 1:00 p.m.

�Please note that there will be

NO 5:00 p.m. Masson Christmas Day.

Now Beginning our 90th Year in Alhambra!We invite you to be a part of it!

Nearly ninety years ago, two Carmelite Priests fromIreland, Fr. Bernard and Fr. Cyril, were delegatedto come to America and open a new parish and

school for the Discalced Carmelite Apostolate.

The Parish was officially founded on December 25,1924. It is named in honor of St. Therese of the ChildJesus, who at that time had only been deceased fortwenty-seven years. The Chapel of the Discalced CarmeliteNuns, 215 East Alhambra Road, served as the Parish Churchuntil the church-school combination building was erected at515 North Vega St. in 1926. The first big event in the parishwas the Solemn Novena in preparation for the canonizationof St.Therese, who was declared a saint on May 7, 1925.

In 1927, the parish school, St. Therese School, had anenrollment of 185 children, with two grades per class. TheDominican Sisters were in charge of the School until 1930,when they were asked by the Archbishop to take anotherschool in Anaheim. After an extensive search for a new groupof sisters, the Sisters of St. Mary of the Woods in Indiana (Sistersof Providence) consented to staff the school, which they didup until the 1980s, when it became solely staffed by laypersons.

Fr. Patrick Collins, who was the pastor in 1939, beganfundraising to build a new church. However, it was the pastorin 1949, Fr. James Gilmartin, who hired J. Earl Trudeau,architect, to draw up the plans for the present church, whichwas completed in 1950. The first Mass was celebrated in iton Dec. 10, 1950 and it was dedicated on Jan. 14, 1951,by Cardinal McIntyre, then Archbishop of Los Angeles.

The old church then became the Parish Hall and the formerHall was transformed into two classrooms and a small meetingroom.

In 1954, Fr. Columban Fitzgerald became Pastor, andhe arranged for the rectory (the home of the Friars) to be builtin 1956-57. By doing so, the house that was used by theCarmelite Friars as a rectory for 32 years (originally built in1899 by Seth Champion) was razed. Also, in 1959 a newconvent was built for the Sisters at 520 North Vega. The rectoryis now used as the Parish Offices, and the convent is nowused as the residence of the Friars. Due to increased schoolenrollment in 1960, the pastor at that time, Fr. Gerald Winters,oversaw the demolition of the old school and hall and theconstruction of the present school and hall, which werecompleted in 1963 (the hall is now officially known as the Fr.Gerald Winters Auditorium).

In 1966 Fr. William Fenton was appointed as Pastor. Heinstalled a new organ and updated the Sanctuary for the newLiturgy. Fr. Fenton also served a second term as Pastor from1978 to 1984 — the only priest to ever do so.

Since then, the following have continued the ministryof the Discalced Carmelite Fathers by serving as Pastor: 1984-1990: Fr. David Costello, O.C.D.; 1990-1996: Fr. Patrick Sugrue,O.C.D.; 1996-1999: Fr. Stephen Watson, O.C.D.; 1999-2005:Fr. Mathew Williams, O.C.D.; 2005 to 2011: Fr. Jan Lundberg,O.C.D.; and 2011 to present: Fr. Philip Sullivan, O.C.D.

We look forward to many more years serving the peopleof the City of Alhambra. May God bless and guide you, andmay our Patroness St. Therese intercede on your behalf thatthere may be a shower of blessings in your lives!

5:00 p.m.7:30 p.m. &

Midnight11 p.m. – Carols & Choral Music

Directed by George Klump

SENIOR NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 6B

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With Christmas bearing down hard onus, it is time to ask how you will honorthe seniors in your life. Unlike the pre-teens with endless numbers of videogames, gift giving for a senior can presentunique challenges.

As seniors age, we quickly run throughthe obvious items to give them for birth-days, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, and

Christmas. If your senior is in the processof down-sizing their possessions, it canlead to even greater head scratching.

This year, instead of the trinkets andtoys that fill our stores, why not give thema piece of yourself? Here are a few ways todo it successfully.

A book of testimonials. One of thethings you often overhear after funeralsand memorial services is how much “momwould have loved to have heard what was

said about her.” Why not say it now? Sende-mails to all of the members of your fam-ily, extended family, and family friends.Inform them you are assembling a bookof testimonies, expressing gratitude toyour senior for the part he or she hasplayed in the lives of family and friends.

Give them some direction and a dead-line for returning the completed letters.Encourage them to share a funny story,to describe a previously unexpressed rea-son for thanksgiving and gratitude, to ver-balize their love.

Even your less demonstrative familymembers will often rise to the occasion tosay things that they have never said to“mom” or “dad” in person.

You can be as artful or prosaic as youcare to be. Some folks will want to printthe letters in a fancy typeface. Others willsimply slide them into clear sheet protec-tors and assemble the book. If someone isartistic, they may want to add artistictouches or apply more elaborate layoutdesigns.

Remember to use a font large enoughand clear enough for your senior to readcomfortably. They will be turning to thisvolume often in the days to come, usuallywith a smile and often with tears.

A collection of family photographs.If your senior has reasonable vision, youmay want to assemble a collection of pho-tographs across the generations. Select pic-tures of the shared events that mark yourfamily and will be evocative to the senior.Births, graduations, weddings, birthdaycelebrations, Thanksgiving and Christmasdinners, and vacations are all rich sourcesof memories.

Again, task the creative family mem-ber with the layout and design. You wouldbe surprised how such a gift will draw inassistance from several generations. Sta-tionery and office stores carry photo al-bums suitable for this kind of project.And, you may wish to add quotes, scrapsof memorabilia such as a first-grade re-port card, or a postcard from a meaning-ful vacation.

You can also include some testimonialletters to add richness and texture to thegift.

A coupon book. Use a computer toprepare a coupon book of practical acts oflove that you will be willing to do for yoursenior.

A teenager washing her car or mowinghis lawn, a free spring cleaning, organiz-ing the garage, personal backrubs or mas-sages, and more are all ideas that have been

used. Retirement communities such asAtherton and senior centers often offeractivities open to the public. And, theInternet is full of ideas for dinner dates,trips to museums, and short road trips.

The common denominator for all ofthese ideas centers on the gift of yourself.Ultimately, when someone becomes a se-nior citizen, there may be very little thatthey need or want that can be purchasedin a store or ordered from Amazon.

Your time, love, and personal attention,however, may be a priceless gift to the oneyou love.

Remember that your loved one will notbe with you forever.While writing theselines, I was reminded of my mother whopassed away earlier this year. For her thereis nothing that our family can give her orbring to her this Christmas. Make themost of the days available to you, and givethe gift that will be received the best andthat will never need to be returned the dayafter Christmas: yourself.

A Christmas gift for the senior in your life

Give the gift thatwill be received thebest and that willnever need to bereturned: yourself

SENIOR NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 7B12/2013

SENIOR NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 8B

Joslyn Adult Recreation Center

200 S. GARFIELD AVE., STE 102-D, ALHAMBRA, CA 626.427.3688WWW.ALHAMBRA.FIRSTLIGHTHOMECARE.COM

December at Joslyn bringsAlhambra seniors a mix of edu-cational seminars, holidayevents, and access to clubs thatcater to multiple interests.

Events include:Christmas Craft Fair from

10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday,Dec. 4. Local crafters will offertheir hand-crafted pieces.

Holiday Blues seminar from

9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. Tuesday,Dec.10. Presented by VITAS In-novative Hospice, Pam Wright,MSW, LCSW.

Learning to de-stress withchair Tai Chi seminar at 10 a.m.Tuesday, Dec. 17. Presented byUSC Family Caregiver SupportCenter.

Holiday Lunch & Festivitiesat 9 a.m. Friday, Dec. 20. Mu-

sic, talent by the Music CenterUshers, a luncheon, and a visitwith Santa.

New Year’s Masquerade Ballfrom 4 p.m. to 7 p.m. Monday,Dec. 30. The fee is $10. “Dressto impress” is the advice to se-niors, and masks will be providedto add to the mystique. An af-ternoon of enchantment, withlive entertainment and music, arepromised. Ticket price includesdinner and entertainment. Pleaseregister beginning Wednesday,Dec. 4.

New Year’s Eve Lunch &Countdown at 10 a.m. Tuesday,Dec. 31. Celebrate the New Yearwith Joslyn friends, and enjoylunch and the countdown to theNew Year.

Additional activities are fre-quently added during themonth. Check the activities cal-endar at Joslyn on a regular ba-sis.

Seminars are free unless oth-erwise indicated, but with lim-ited space it is important to makea reservation.

Daily lunches and special oc-casion luncheons require reserva-tions one day in advance. Phone626-458-4455, weekdays at 9:30a.m. Suggested donation is $2.

Joslyn Adult Recreation Cen-ter is located at 210 N. ChapelAve. It is open weekdays from 8a.m. to 5 p.m. Phone 626-570-5056.

Enjoy Christmas, New Year atJoslyn Adult Recreation Center

Twice each month, a SeniorOutings luxury coach leavesAlhambra packed with seniorsabout to visit interesting, attrac-tive, and historically significantSouthern California sites.

In December, seniors areheaded for Ontario Mills onDec. 6 and the Mission Inn inRiverside on Dec. 17. Registra-tion for these outings took placein November, but check foravailable seats by contacting theJoslyn Adult Recreation Centerat 626-570-5056.

On Tuesday, Dec.3, registra-tion begins for January’s outingsto Farmers Market and theGrove from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.Jan. 10 (fee: $12), and PechangaResort and Casino from 8:30a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Jan. 23 (fee:$15).

The world-famous L.A.Farmers Market is a Los Ange-les Historic Cultural Site, and,since 1960 a top tourist attrac-tion in Los Angeles. The L.A.Farmers Market offers bakedgoods, gourmet groceries, meat,poultry, fish, and produce, whileits multiple shops include artsand collectibles, beauty and per-sonal goods, clothing and acces-sories, gifts and souvenirs,housewares, jewelry, magazines

Senior Outings program showsseniors Southern California

and books, and toys and novel-ties.

For lunch, not included, thereare countless choices, includingAsian and Pacific, Brazilian,Cajun, French, Greek andMiddle Eastern, Italian, Mexi-can, and Spanish. A free trolleytransports shoppers to theGrove.

The Pechanga Resort andCasino is the biggest casino inCalifornia, offering more than3,000 state-of-the art slots andvideo machines and more than130 table games, including mostany game of chance that comesto mind. Lunch, not included,in the Temptations Food Walkoffers many choices, includingMexican, Italian, Asian, andAmerican cuisines.

Senior Outings registrationprocedures are outlined in theCity of Alhambra Leisure Classes,Activities & Excursions Guide,”available at www.cityofalhambra.org.

HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 9B12/2013

BY WENDY GRACE, MISSION FITNESS CENTER

The New Year is sneaking up and, once again, everyone will make health resolu-tions. Usually, the best intentions to start exercising regularly last only a few weeks.Emulating the habits of people who are consistent exercisers can help you keep yourresolution. Here are some of the things they do right:

1. Successful exercis-ers are nutritionally edu-cated. Did you know that80% of weight loss resultshas to do with diet, andexercise is only 20%? Ifyou do not know whatyou are supposed to eat orhow much, you will con-tinue to spin your wheels.Hire a nutritionist, join aprogram like WeightWatchers, or buy a copy of“Nutrition For Dum-mies,” an excellent book.Once you’re educatedabout food consumptionand nutrition values, youwill find it much easier tolose weight.

2. Successful exercis-ers hire a personaltrainer. How can youtrain properly at your newgym if you don’t know how? Choosing and using the right equipment should not be

Adopting the habits of regular exercisers can help withfulfilling New Year’s resolutions.

Five beneficial habits thatsuccessful exercisers follow

CONTINUED ON PAGE 13B

Health & Medical NewsHospitals, Physicians, Dentists, Facilities

HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 10B

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

Fremont Optometry Center

Se Habla Español

For YourGood Health

Sheila Yonemoto, P.T., hasbeen a practicing physical thera-pist for more than 30 years, spe-cializing in Integrative ManualTherapy using a holistic ap-proach. She can be reached atYonemoto Physical Therapy, 55S. Raymond Ave., Suite 100,Alhambra 91801. Phone 626-576-0591 for a free consulta-tion and free insurance verifi-cation, or visit Web sitewww.yonemoto.com for more infor-mation.

Qigong, Chinese Energy ClassesTry a no-impact Qigong Class.

The first class, a $30 value, is free.Classes are offered at Y.P.T. Phonefor more info.

BY SHEILA YONEMOTO, P.T.A lot of things come to mind

when you hear the word“power.” Since we are discuss-ing fitness, I would like to use“power” to mean the ability tohold a position in space.

For example, power relatesto the muscles and joints in theconcept of balance.

If you are balanced on both

feet and have good positioningbetween muscles and joints, itis harder to knock you down asyou are able to generate a goodamount of counter-force.

Think about those athleteswho are in a power positionsuch as the defensive lineman,the receiving tennis player. andthe wrestler. The feet have awide base of support, the hips are slightly bent as are the

knees, the spine is straight, thearms are slightly outstretched,the weight is slightly forwardon the feet. These athletes arepoised for receiving and coun-teracting a strong force.

What about other athleteslike baseball pitchers or basket-ball players? How does thisconcept of power work? Thinkabout how much force yougenerate in throwing a baseballwhen you are unwinding froma balanced position versus froman unbalanced position.

Or how much force can youcreate when shooting a basket-ball with your feet planted sol-idly on the ground versus slid-ing out of position? You can getan idea of an unstable surfaceby running in the sand.

It is much harder to propelyourself forward when runningin the sand versus running onpavement, which is much moresolid and gives you a stable baseon which to run.

Even a non-athlete musthave a stable spine to pick up achild. No force can be gener-ated if your spine moves as youpick up something.

How can you test a person’sability to generate power? Asimple test would be to see howstable one’s balance is during aparticular movement. I recentlysaw a great way to test a golfswing. At the top of thebackswing, see if you can lift theleft foot up and still keep yourbalance. Then, at the end of thefollow-through, see if you canlift the right foot up and stillkeep your balance.

To increase power in move-ment, many components needto be addressed: flexibility; sta-bility of the spine, shouldergirdle, and pelvic girdle;strength; coordination; and bal-ance.

Some of these componentsmay hinder a person more thanothers, and the emphasis andsequencing of training mayvary.

Equipment may also be usedto improve power as well asnutrition to provide adequateenergy for force production.Much can contribute to theproduction of force, but the keyingredient in power is the abil-ity to hold a position in space.

Finding the power within yourselfTo increase powerin movement,many componentsneed to beaddressed

HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 11B12/2013

Ask Dr. Dara, DDS

Dr. Dara Gashparova, D.D.S. is lo-cated at 1933 W Valley Blvd. Readerswith dental questions or concerns shouldcontact her at 626-289-6131, or e-maildaradds@yahoo.com.

Ask Dr. DaraThe old saying “An ounce of preven-

tion is worth a pound of cure” is an ex-tremely wise piece of advice when itcomes to your oral health. Regular den-tal checkups allow your dentist to findearly signs of dental problems and treatthem at a manageable stage.

Why do I need professional den-tal cleaning?

No matter how well you clean yourteeth, traces of plaque are left behind andwill harden into tartar.

Without dental cleaning, tartar de-posits irritate your gums, deepen thegum pockets, separate the teeth from thegums, and loosen your teeth.

How often do I need to have myteeth professionally cleaned?

On average, seeing a dentist twice ayear works well for a lot of people. Veryfew can get away with just once a year.However, one-size-fits-all doesn’t workfor a dental cleaning schedule, andpeople with a high risk of dental diseasemight need to visit every three or fourmonths. This high-risk group includes:

• Smokers.

• Diabetics.

• People with joint replacements.

• People with current gum disease.

• Pregnant woman.

• People with weak immune responseto bacterial infection.

• People who tend to get cavities orbuild plaque and tartar more rapidly.

Let your dentist create a personal den-tal hygiene program for your currentneeds.

Friendly reminder to use your den-tal benefits

Since most dental insurance plans runfrom Jan. 1 to Dec. 31, chances are your

Professional cleaning averts dental problemsdental benefits will expire in a month.Most insurance benefits do not carryover to the next year. As such, any un-used benefit dollars for 2013 are typi-cally lost. The phrase “use it or lose it”really applies here.

We know how busy families are to-day, but remember taking care of yourdental health now could spare you theaggravation of a dental emergency dur-ing the holidays.

HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 12B

Dr. Karen H. Chao, O.D. has been anOptometrist in private practice for morethan 17 years. In addition to general op-tometric care, her services include VisionTherapy, Neuro-Optometric Evaluationfor Traumatic Brain Injury, Corneal Re-fractive Therapy, and Low Vision Services.She can be reached at 121 S. Del MarAve., Ste. A, San Gabriel 91776. Phone626-287-0401, or visitwww.TotalVisionDC.com for moreinformation.

Karen H. Chao, O.D.BY KAREN CHAO, O.D.

The holidays are generally a timeof hope and heartwarming stories. Iwould like to share a story with youof a very special child.

Peter was a very bright child. Hisparents did everything for him, yethe struggled with reading and pay-ing attention. What was wrong withPeter? The teachers at the school sus-pected a possible vision problem be-

cause they could see he had trouble fol-lowing a line of print easily when heread; his parents were positive he didn’thave a vision problem because at his lasteye exam the doctor said he didn’t needglasses and saw 20/20. So vision wasdismissed as a possible cause.

Despite everything the school did(and this was one of the best schools intown), Peter still struggled. Finally, oneday his mother read an article that ex-

plained that 20/20 does not mean some-one has perfect vision.

All it means is that you can see from20 feet the size of letter on the eye chartyou are supposed to see from 20 feet.This got her thinking that maybe theteacher was right; maybe it was a visionproblem.

Fortunately, someone referred her tomy office, and when I examined Peter,it turned out that he had difficulty co-ordinating his eyes when he read. Thiscaused him to see double on and offwhenever he tried to read. No wonderhe was struggling. Fortunately, throughvision therapy, we were able to correctthe problem, and now Peter actuallyloves to read!

This holiday season, please do some-thing special for your child and find outif vision may be holding him back fromachieving his full potential.

Wishing you all the best this holidayseason and a very Happy New Year!

This holiday story may be repeated oftenfind out if visionissues may be holdingyour child back

For advertising rates and other information,contact Alhambra Chamber of Commerce

104 S. First St., Alhambra, CA 91801Tel: 626-282-8481 Fax: 626-282-5596

www.alhambrachamber.orgSubmit press releases to: djenkins@alhambrachamber.org

Around Alhambra

HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 13B12/2013

• 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?

John C. Chao, DDS, MAGDof Alhambra

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For more information, contact Dr. John Chaoat 626-308-9104. Visit Dr. Chao’s Web site atchickenswelcome.com

BY JOHN CHAO, D.D.S.,AND SARAH E. KENNEDY, RDH

For many years, research has shown the differenteffects smoking can have on an individual. Smoking,whether it is cigarettes, cigars, or smokeless tobacco(more commonly known as “dip” or “chew”) has seri-ous side effects that can harm an individual’s heart,lungs, kidneys, skin, and oral cavity.

The problems that it causes in the oral cavity caninclude inflammation, halitosis (bad breath), bone loss,and risks of cancer (tongue, throat, lip, etc.)

Smoking increases the chances of losing teeth. Peri-odontal disease (gum disease) is a common diseasefound among many of the population, but can betreated and controlled if done correctly.

Common treatments for periodontal disease caninclude scaling and root planing (deep cleaning), laserdisinfection, and endoscopy (a microscopic camerawhich is placed under the gums that enables a clini-cian to locate and remove plaque in lieu of surgery).

The purpose of this treatment is to remove bacteriaand infection that is inside the gums. The routinecleanings done roughly every 90 days are essential incontrolling gum disease.

Smoking increases the chances of bone loss andimpedes the positive effects of a deep cleaning. Smok-ing can also affect gum recession and create more of it.

Recession results in loss of gum attachment as wellas bone loss. Nicotine negatively affects the healingprocess in the mouth, so after any kind of treatment isdone, it is possible to not heal as well as you couldhave. This can also create other infections.

Smoking can cause cancer in the oral cavity. It hasbeen linked to causing tongue cancer, lip cancer, throatcancer, and esophageal cancer, amongst many others.

Treatment for these cancers can include removal of theentire tissue area.

It is imperative to always see a dentist for routinecleanings and check-ups. Intraoral cancer exams arealways done to see if any abnormalities are present.

Smoking causes many problems for the moutha guessing game – if it is, you may not see results, andyou might even injure yourself. If finances are an issue,hire a trainer for at least nine sessions: three times aweek for three weeks. It’s a great way to learn a routine.Explain to your trainer that you want to learn the ba-sics so you can train on yourown. You can go back to thetrainer for booster sessionsevery couple of months.

3. Successful exercisersschedule their workouts.Make workout time a calen-dar priority, around whicheverything else revolves. Startwith two to three times aweek only. If you set yourselfup to attend the gym every day, you are more likely tofail. Exercising every other day is more realistic, lessstressful, and may have just as many health benefits asworking out daily.

4. Successful exercisers find a partner. You are farmore likely to show up to the gym if someone is wait-ing for you. Try different types of classes to see whichis the most fun, and then commit together.

5. Successful exercisers don’t get discouraged.Once you begin an exercise program, don’t expectmiracles. We see so many misleading infomercials andtelevision shows about stunning results in short peri-ods of time. This is so discouraging to people in thereal world. You must treat exercise as a lifestyle habit,like brushing your teeth. Just do it. Take a picture ofyourself every three months, and you will see smallchanges over time. The more consistent you are, thebetter the results.

Mission Fitness Center is located at 2451 Mission St.,San Marino 91108.

Five beneficial habitsof successful exercisersCONTINUED FROM PAGE 9B

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 14B

Dining & EntertainmentWhat’s Happening for Food & Fun

BY SARAH GREAR

El Patio Tepeyac has been serving tasty,homemade Mexican recipes for more than30 years in the Alhambra community. Thefamily run restaurant serves flavorful mealsand large portions paired with reasonableprices.

The authentic Mexican eatery offersmore than 70 plates and is tucked away ina warehouse district near Mission at 800S. Palm Ave., Alhambra. The restaurant’spopular menu features burritos packedwith fresh ingredients, soups served pip-ing hot, and tempting combination plates.

“The top seller is our special-made wetburritos topped with cheese and filled witha choice of meat, rice, fresh beans, andguacamole,” said El Patio Tepeyac ownerHumberto Hernandez. “Most people likethe Okie burrito with beef or theHollenbeck burrito with pork.”

“It’s a hearty meal for $6.99,” added Mr.Hernandez’s son and manager, Roland.Another burrito option on the menu is thebig Tepeyac burrito, which is made withthree tortillas and feeds three to five peoplefor $15.99.

When I walked into the restaurant on abusy Thursday afternoon, I was delighted

to find a Mexican restaurant in an unas-suming warehouse district. The interior ofthe restaurant is bright and cheery. The longfood counter divides two seating areas witha bar near the front door.

The difference between El Patio Tepeyacand other Mexican restaurants is the qual-ity of the food, because it is homemade andnothing is overly salted. Humberto ex-plained that the chips, beans, soups, andtortillas are never canned or pre-packaged.

Many of the patrons on the day of myvisit were workers from the warehouse dis-trict. They eat there on weekdays and bringtheir families back on Saturdays.

“I had one customer who had frozen ElPatio Tepeyac burritos shipped to New Yorkbecause they missed our authentic Mexi-can food,” said Humberto.

Besides the burritos, they are known fortheir soups: albondigas, cocido, chickensoup, and menudo. Humberto’s favorite isthe cocido or chicken soup.

The 1,700 square foot restaurant hasfour employees and serves the communityin English and Spanish. The restaurant hasbeen at its current location for 22 years,and for 10 years they ran El Patio Tepeyacout of another location down the street.

The name El Patio means“the patio,” and Tepeyac is areference to the hill where JuanDiego saw the Virgin Mary.

Their original locationdown the street is now calledLa Cafeina, and it is stillowned by the Hernandez fam-ily. The daily operations of LaCafeina are run by Humberto’swife and his other son. Muchof their menu offers items thatare not on the El Patio Tepeyacmenu, including seafood andposole.

El Patio Tepeyac also offerslocal catering to businesses, abreakfast menu, and someAmerican cuisine. With somuch variety on the menu, itwarrants several trips to try allthe authentic flavors.

Their daily lunch specialsinclude one taco and beans orone enchilada with rice andbeans for $5.25. “We invite thecommunity to come in and trythe food,” said Humberto.

“Our customers all know usby name, and they keep com-ing back because we’reAlhambra’s best kept secret,”added Roland.

El Patio Tepeyac is hostinga brand new happy hour from

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

El Patio Tepeyac: Twogenerations in Alhambra

El Patio Tepeyac’s team, from left: waitress Ariadne Yanez, head waitress Leticia Aleman,owner Humberto Hernandez, manager Roland Hernandez, and assistant cook Federico Pineda.

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 15B12/2013

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Sarah Grear enjoys the delicious enchiladas plate with rice, beans, and salsa

El Patio Tepeyac also caters business events

Members of the Pasadena Crown City Chorus are turning their attention totheir next big events. On Dec. 14, they present their Christmas Show atPasadena’s Church of the Nazarene. The show begins at 2 p.m., and ticketsare now on sale. On Dec. 21, the chorus is participating in its SingingChristmas Card program. Orders for the Christmas cards are being taken.Under the direction of John Minsker, the chorus recently scored well duringthe Barbershop Harmony Society’s Far Western Division Convention andCompetition in Bakersfield on Oct. 12. Since 1949, the Crown City Cho-rus has been a continuing member of what today is known at the Barber-shop Harmony Society. The Society began in 1936. For information or tobook a performance, phone Jose Ochoa at 323-255-8317, or e-mailsteve.swinney@att.net.

Crown City Chorus announces Dec. 14 Christmas Concert

p.m. Monday – Friday and 7:30 a.m. to4 p.m. Saturday. The phone number is626-308-3866. Don’t forget to “Like” ElPatio Tepeyac on Face-book.

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 16B

BUY ANY ENTREE & GET ONE FREEwith the purchase of two beverages

second entree must be equal or lesser value up to $9.00This offer limited to one person per group, party or table seating, regardless of separate checks.

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Alhambra is Rich in Restaurants— Dine Out Tonight

All you can eat Korean BBQ

68 W. Main St. (Main St. and 1st St.)Downtown Alhambra

$19.99 Dinners • $14.99 Lunch (M-F)

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BY MICHAEL CARVAINES

Moviegoers continue to flock to theEdwards Cinemas on Main Street for twoof the year’s best movies: Gravity and Cap-tain Phillips.

Each one is a high-stakes, high-octanethriller, filled with action, movie stars inperil, and spectacular locations. They arethe type of picture that people complainHollywood doesn’t make anymore — es-pecially after a summer of remakes, se-quels, and duds.

Starring George Clooney and SandraBullock, Gravity is an authentic spectaclebest seen on the big screen — and 3D ifstill available. It’s what audiences alwayshope a movie will be: exciting, emotional,thought-provoking, and visually stunning.

This is an original adventure createdby writer-director Alfonso Cuarón, whoseprevious movies include Children of Men,Y Tu MamTambién, and the third HarryPotter movie The Prisoner of Azkaban.Gravity uses the latest technology to tellan old-fashioned story of survival. It pre-sents humanity at its bravest — the spaceexplorers risking their lives for the greatergood.

From the breathtaking opening scene,where Planet Earth sprawls across thebackground like a Van Gogh painting,Gravity is filled with astonishing imagery.

The movie ultimately succeeds becauseof the human story — the journey of thetwo surviving astronauts who must avoidrunaway space debris and navigate theirway home without any communicationfrom Earth. It’s a terrifying ride, unlike

Gravity, Captain Phillips,two of the year’s best movies

Downtown Alhambra jumpingevery Saturday night at Rick’s

Enjoy great music every Saturday from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Rick’s Main StreetCafe’s stage, 132 W. Main St., in Downtown Alhambra, brought to you by MariniMusic and Rick’s:

Dec. 7: J.E.S. – classic rock

Dec. 14: Little Ricky & the Hammer Twins – radio hits of the ’60s

Dec. 21: Crossroads – R&B

Dec. 28: L.A. Undercover – classic rock

For more information, contact Marini Music at 626-289-0241.

Two for the ShowMOVIE REVIEWS BY MICHAEL CARVAINES

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anything audiences have seen in manyyears.

Captain Phillips is based on the truestory of the American cargo ship hijackedby Somali pirates in 2009. The captain isplayed by Tom Hanks, who delivers hisbest performance in at least a decade. Thisis more than Apollo 13 on the high seas.Captain Phillips is a multi-faceted thrillerthat shows the hard-hitting details of thecapture and rescue mission. It is directedby Paul Greengrass, who made The BourneUltimatum and the excellent 9/11 movieUnited 93. He obviously has a flair foredge-of-your-seat excitement.

For much of the movie, the central con-flict is a battle of wills between the char-acter Captain Philips and Muse, the So-mali pirate who is played with terrifyingrealism by Barkhad Abdi. The two cap-tains represent both sides of the globaleconomy: the wealthy, secure American,and the desperately poor, third-world Af-rican. Each man can only be themselves,and each must outwit and out-fight theother in order to survive.

There’s never a dull moment as we seethe crew fight the pirates, then once hi-jacked, attempt to defeat their captors.This is truly Tom Hanks’s show, and hisrange extends from everyday working classcaptain, to brave combatant. It’s a remark-able performance, in a suspenseful, pro-vocative film that sticks with you long af-ter it’s over.

Alhambra resident Michael Carvaines writesthe online movie blog Spectacle And Truthfound online at www.spectacleandtruth.com. Fol-

low him on Twitter at @MicarPro.

DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 17B12/2013

The Alhambra Performing ArtsCenter (CVPA) presents Beverly HillsAuditions winner Trio Celeste on Sat-urday, Dec 14 for a free concert at SageGranada Park United MethodistChurch, 1850 W. Hellman Ave.,Alhambra.

Violinist Iryna Krechkovsky willperform on a 325-year-old,1689Baumgartner Stradivarius violinvalkued at $5 million and on loan bythe Canada Council for the Arts Mu-sic Instrument Bank.

Based in Orange County, TrioCeleste is quickly establishing itself asone of the most exciting young cham-ber music ensembles in the country.Recently appointed Artists-in-Resi-dence at the Claire Trevor School ofthe Arts at the University of Califor-nia, Irvine, Trio Celeste has taken onseveral large-scale projects includingperformances of the complete trioworks of Ludwig van Beethoven andmultiple performances of the TripleConcerto with the UC Irvine Sym-phony Orchestra in 2012.

Highlights of their upcoming sea-son include recitals at the Music GuildSummer Festival in Los Angeles, col-laborations with principal members ofthe Orpheus Chamber Orchestra andthe Afiara String Quartet, recitals atthe Chamber Music Series at the Or-ange County Great Park, and the com-plete Beethoven Trio Cycle at theKitchener-Waterloo Chamber MusicSeries in Canada.

The trio, as Ensemble-in-Resi-dence at Chamber Music OC, wasalso selected for a four-week residencyat the Grand Canyon National Parkin the Summer of 2014. Along withChamber Music-OC’s Director ofCommunity Outreach MichelleGasworth, they will present perfor-mances and educational programsthroughout the South Rim of theGrand Canyon.

As winners of the prestigious 2013Beverly Hills Auditions in Los Ange-les, Trio Céleste will be featured inperformances throughout SouthernCalifornia during the 2013-2014 sea-son.

Admission is free. Donations willbe requested.

For more information, contact Ar-tistic Director Bill Yee by e-mail,bizwind@yahoo.com, or by phoning 626-230-5435.

The Performing Arts Center’s Website is www.cvpaministry.com.

Trio Celeste to perform at Performing Arts Centerfeaturing $5 million Stradivarius violin

Alhambra is Rich in Restaurants

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DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 18B

12-31-13.

12-31-13.

Sunday, Dec. 1 Farmer’s Market:Holiday Theme – 8:30 a.m.-1 p.m.Shop for holiday produce and enjoysome family fun with a visit from Santa,holiday hoops, and holiday crafts forchildren 12 years and under. Parents areencouraged to participate and help theirchildren create an edible holiday treeand other holiday crafts. All those whovisit Santa will get a candy cane and hotchocolate. Receive a new string of LEDenergy saving lights when exchanged for

Family Ties – Seasonal events for the entire family

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old ones. Monterey Street, one block eastof Garfield and a half block south ofMain Street.

Wednesday, Dec. 4 – Seniors:–Christmas Craft Fair at Joslyn Center– 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Local crafters will of-fer their creative handcrafted originalpieces for purchase. For more informa-tion, phone 626-570-5056.

Friday, Dec. 6 – Tree Lighting Cer-emony 5:30 to 9 p.m. Santa arrives at 6

p.m. to light the tree and to participatein photos with Santa. Music and com-plimentary refreshments are included.

First Friday vendors will be at theTree Lighting Ceremony from 5 p.m.to 9 p.m. at the Alhambra RenaissancePlaza, 1 E. Main St., Alhambra Pre-sented by the Downtown AlhambraBusiness Association.

Saturday, Dec. 7 and 14 – SantaClaws Photo Event at PetSmart – 11a.m.-4 p.m. Bring a pet and a camerafor pictures with Santa and donate $5to benefit a local animal welfare group.PetSmart, 2568 W. CommonwealthAve., Alhambra 91803.

Monday, Dec. 9 – GingerbreadHouse Workshop at the Civic CenterLibrary – 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. in RuthReese Hall. For ages 5-12. Celebrate theholiday season by making gingerbreadhouses. No registration, but space andsupplies are limited.

Tuesday, Dec. 10 – Seniors: HolidayBlues seminar at Joslyn Center – 9:30a.m.-11:30 a.m. Presented by VITASInnovative Hospice, Pam Wright, MSW,LCSW. 210 N. Chapel Ave., Alhambra91801. For more information, phone626-570-5056.

Tuesday, Dec. 10 –Free Movie Night,Christmas in Con-necticut, 1945-NR, atthe Civic Center Li-brary, 101 S. First St.,6:30 p.m. A food writerwho has lied about be-ing the perfect house-wife must try to coverher deception when herboss and a returningwar hero invite them-selves to her home for atraditional familyChristmas. Stars Bar-bara Stanwyck, DennisMorgan, and SydneyGreenstreet.

Thursday, Dec. 19 – Teens: GoGreen for the Holidays at the CivicCenter Library – 3:30 p.m. Teens areinvited to craft a gift out of earth-friendly and green materials. TAB meet-ing also to take place at this time.

Friday, Dec. 20 – Seniors: – Holi-day Lunch & Festivities at Joslyn Cen-ter – 9 a.m. Enjoyable music, talent bythe Music Center Ushers, a special lun-cheon, and a visit with Santa. Don’t missthis merry event. For more information,phone 626-570-5056.

Saturday, Dec. 14 – Jan. 12 – Out ofthe Shire: A Tribute Exhibition toMiddle-Earth at Nucleus – Openingreception Dec. 14. 7 p.m.-11 p.m.,Nucleus Gallery, 210 E. Main St.,Alhambra 91801. For more informa-tion, phone 626-458-7477, or visit–www.gallerynucleus.com.

Monday, Dec. 30 – Seniors: NewYear’s Eve Lunch & Countdown atJoslyn Center – 4 p.m. -7 p.m. “Dressto impress is the advice to seniors. Maskswill be provided to add to the mystique.An afternoon of enchantment, with liveentertainment and music. Ticket price$10 includes dinner and live entertain-ment. Register beginning Wednesday,Dec. 4.

AroundAlhambra

www.alhambrachamber.orgsubmit press releases to:

djenkins@alhambrachamber.org

AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA12/2013 PAGE 19B

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Automotive News | Auto Dealers, Repairs, Services

Goudy Honda service department, front row, from left: Domingo Naranjo, StephanieSandoval, April Barba, Gary Tong, Frank Leung. Back row, from left: Johnathan Lim,Oscar Chavez, David Sandoval, Yuhong Chin, and Fernando Huerta.

Goudy Honda sales team, from left: Jeffrey Setiabudi, Ricky Gallegos, Arvin Duran, AlfonsoCabral, Wayne Chang, Benson Luu, Efrain Guiterriez, Michael Avila, and Tito Fuente.

Dealer Spotlight

Bouyed by strong sales, Goudy Honda expands service departmentGoudy Honda offers an extensive selection of more

than 800 new and used cars to the community, includ-ing Accord, Civic, Hybrid, Pilot, CR-V, Element,Ridgeline, Odyssey, Fit, Insight, and Crosstour models.

“As a family run dealership, we are one of the largestvolume dealers in the world,” said Goudy Honda VicePresident Tony Iskandar. “We have been able to achievethat by staying focused on customer service in both oursales and service departments.”

In April 2014, Goudy Honda will expand its servicedepartment and outfit it with the latest technology. Someof the new features will include faster lifts and equip-ment that will contribute to speeding up the service

department’s process.For the past 10 years, the Goudy Honda service de-

partment has implemented one of the most efficient oilchange services. They can guarantee an oil change in 30minutes or less because they established a special depart-ment to complete this service.

Goudy Honda has dedicated porters that speed up theservice process by only doing oil change services through-out the entire day, similar to the grocery store with theexpress lane that serves customers with 10 items or less,

This allows the dealership to complete 1,200 – 1,500oil changes per month. The service is only available forHondas or Acuras, and the special price is $31, while

they complete the expansion of their service department.There are 164 employees who serve the public in seven

languages and dialects, including Spanish, English, Man-darin, Fukui, Tagalog, Indonesian, Korean, and Farsi.

Another key element of Goudy Honda’s success is itsability to retain managers who have worked there for 30plus years. The goal of Goudy Honda is to build longterm, lasting relationships with their employees and cus-tomers.

“One of the biggest success stories of Goudy Honda isthe growth of the company from 500 sales to around5,000 sales per year,” said Mr. Iskandar.

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 20B

2917 West Valley Blvd., Alhambra

Mr. Iskandar has been involved withGoudy Honda since 1989. Owner MarkGoudy has been a dealer for 30 years. Hepreviously owned two other dealerships inAlhambra.

“We truly do care about our custom-ers,” said Mr. Iskandar. “The results showas we continue to be one of the largestvolume Honda dealerships in the coun-try.” Goudy Honda will offer year-endsales for 2013 and 2014 models. Thedealer will also have a special offer for$2,000 worth of service when customers

purchase a new car.Goudy Honda sales business hours are

10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday – Saturday,and 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday. The ser-vice and parts shop is open from 7 a.m. to7 p.m. Monday – Saturday.

The phone number is 866-432-9410.They can be found online atwww.goudyhonda.com, and don’t forget to likethem at www.facebook.com/GoudyHonda.

Goudy Hondaoffers wide rangeof vehicle options

The company will expand its highly success-ful service department in 2014.

CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE

The holiday season is here, andAlhambra’s auto companies anddealerships are ready to provide high qual-ity vehicles and auto parts to the commu-nity.

With friendly staff and convenienthours, Alhambra’s auto community is oneof the best in the San Gabriel Valley.

Head over for a test drive.

Since 2004, Bob Wondries Ford hasbeen open seven days a week for sales,parts, and service to accommodate theneeds of the community.400 S. Atlantic Blvd. • Alhambra 91801626-289-3591 • www.bobwondriesford.com

Hi-Quality Auto Body wishes thecommunity a happy holiday and remindsthem to drive safely.723 S. Fremont Ave. • Alhambra 91803626-457-9114 • www.hiqualityautobody.com

Goudy Honda is featuring end of theyear sales in the month of December on2013 and 2014 models.

Alhambra’sAuto Row News

Hi-Quality Auto Bodyemployees, from left: AutoBody Technician ArmandoGarcia, Auto BodyTechnician David Elvey,Production ManagerNicolas Isturiz, Auto BodyTechnician OsvaldoSanchez, EstimatorOsvaldo Pacheco, andParts Manager ToddWodke.

They repair yourwear n’ tear

The company is also offering the all-new 2014 Accord Hybrid with a 50-mpgcity rating and loaded with the latest tech-nology, like a two-motor hybridpowertrain and Honda LaneWatch. The2014 Honda Accord Hybrid rethinks gas-electric propulsion, and is designed to de-liver eye-popping fuel economy.1400 W. Main St. • Alhambra 91801626-576-1114 • www.goudyhonda.com

New Century BMW has created a freemobile app to enhance the experience ofbeing a BMW vehicle owner. Features in-clude roadside assistance, parking assis-tant, flashlight, tracking service history,financing, and much more.1139 W. Main Street • Alhambra 91801626-570-8444 • www.newcenturybmw.com

Alhambra Nissan is offering their2014 Versa Sedan model # 11154 for$10,988, and their 2013 Sentra model #12063 for $12,988.726 E. Main St. • Alhambra 91801866-760-0298 • www.alhambranissan.com

AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA12/2013 PAGE 21B

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Jeep® Wrangler, Dodge Challengerwin Kelley best resale value awards

2014 Dodge Challenger. 2014 JeepWrangler.

Kelley Blue Book has named the 2014Jeep

® Wrangler and 2014 Dodge Chal-

lenger winners of its 2014 Best ResaleValue Awards. For the fourth consecutiveyear, Jeep Wrangler has been named BestResale Value in its class and ranked in theTop 10 list for the third consecutive year.

With record-setting sales numbersmonth-over-month this year, Dodge Chal-lenger also earned a spot on this year’s Top10 list of vehicles with the best resale value.

“Jeep continues to dominate in its seg-ment and among the top 10 list, increas-ing its residual value 3.9 percentage pointsfrom just last year,” said Eric Ibara, direc-tor of residual consulting for Kelley BlueBook. “New to this year’s list is the DodgeChallenger, which heavily contributes toDodge’s success for the 2014 model year,along with other strong vehicles from thebrand.”

Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com Best Re-sale Value Awards are based on projectionsfrom the Kelley Blue Book® Official Re-sidual Value Guide and determined by askilled staff of automotive analysts.

These prestigious awards honor ve-hicles expected to maintain the greatest

proportion of their original list price afterfive years of ownership.

2014 Jeep WranglerThe iconic Jeep Wrangler — the most

capable and recognized vehicle in theworld — kicks off the new model yearwith new features such as a new Trail RatedKit featuring two D-rings, a tow strap,gloves and a bag to store the items.

2014 Dodge ChallengerWith record sales levels since the rein-

troduction of the Challenger in 2008, theDodge brand’s performance icon contin-ues to deliver exactly what muscle car en-thusiasts want – a powerful and efficientengine lineup, iconic muscle-car designwith numerous personalization packages.And now with the return of “Scat Pack-age” performance stage kits, plus the en-thusiast-demanded Shaker performancehood with its engine-mounted, fully float-ing scoop and exposed high-flow elementfor cold-air induction – the new 2014Challenger R/T Shaker delivers power,performance and even more heritage-in-spired style for the most hardcore Dodgeenthusiasts.

AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 22B

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Volkswagen E-Golf debuts in L.A.Volkswagen of America, Inc. an-

nounced details of the e-Golf, its first fullyelectric vehicle to go on sale in the U.S.,which debuted at the Los Angeles AutoShow, Nov. 20.

The e-Golf is part of a structuredpowertrain strategy that will lead to thetimely introduction of new and alterna-tive drive systems, and is a part ofVolkswagen’s holistic approach tosustainability, Think Blue. Volkswagen hasstated that it aims to be the world leaderin e-mobility among automakers by 2018.

Although Volkswagen has sold morethan 30 million Golf models worldwide,this is the first zero tailpipe emissions, fullyelectric version of the car that will be soldto the public.

The e-Golf is available in five-doorform only and is immediately recogniz-able by its unique aluminum-alloy wheelsand by its LED headlights, the first timethey have been used as standard on aVolkswagen vehicle. The LED headlightsare more energy-efficient than Bi-Xenonsystems, yet produce even more light.

Highlighted by a versatile cabin thatshows “stylish, comfy living comes incred-ibly cheap,” the 2014 Nissan Versa Notewas named this year’s top value in the an-nual Popular Mechanics Automotive Ex-cellence Awards. As such, it joins nineother choices that “represent the very bestof an industry filled with new life,” ac-cording to the publication.

The 2014 Nissan Versa Note starts atjust $13,990, and can hit 40 mpg in high-way driving, but that’s not what makes thecar a value. The magazine stated that “thislittle five-door is the coolest of all theVersas,” and it’s not really that little onthe inside. The cabin offers the same rear-seat leg space as a Chevrolet Impala, en-hanced by a standard 60/40 split rearseatback that folds flat for cargo-carryingduty.

Filling that spacious cargo area providesno problems for the powertrain, since the2014 Nissan Versa Note packs a 109-

2014 Nissan Versa Note named topvalue by Popular Mechanics magazine

2014 Nissan Versa Note

horspower 1.6-liter four-cylinder enginethat also makes 107 lb.-ft. of torque. Driv-ers can then choose between a five-speedmanual transmission or one of Nissan’sadvanced Xtronic CVTs to make the mostof the Versa Note’s motivation.

Capping off this award-winning pack-age is what Popular Mechanics calls “oneof the slickest designs in the Nissan show-room — at any price.” Which is prettyimpressive for a lineup that also includesthe Nissan GT-R and Nissan 370Z.

AUTOMOTIVE NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA12/2013 PAGE 23B

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 12-31-13.

Bob Wondries FordBob Wondries Ford400 S. Atlantic Blvd.

Alhambra626.289.3591

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Fords go better with Coca-ColaCoca-Cola Company,Ford unveil Ford FusionEnergi with PlantBottle Technology interior

The Coca-Cola Company and Ford Motor Companyare fueling more sustainable design by collaborating on afirst-ever interior fabric made from the same renewablematerial used to produce Coca-Cola’s PlantBottle Technol-ogy™ packaging.

The two companies today unveiled a Ford Fusion Energiplug-in hybrid vehicle with Coca-Cola PlantBottle Tech-nology interior fabric surfaces covering seat cushions, seatbacks, head restraints, door panel inserts and headliners.The research vehicle marks the first time PlantBottle Tech-nology is applied beyond packaging, and affirms a jointcommitment by two global consumer icons to developinnovative new products produced from renewable ma-terials.

“By using PlantBottle Technology in a plug-in hybrid,Ford and Coca-Cola are showing the broad potential toleverage renewable materials that help replace petroleumand other fossil fuels, reducing the overall environmentalimpact of future vehicles,” said John Viera, global direc-tor of sustainability and vehicle environmental mattersat Ford.

The collaboration also demonstrates the positive in-fluence that comes from combining two of the most rec-ognizable and respected brands in the world. The Cola-Cola Company and Ford Motor Company together reachbillions of consumers in more than 200 countries on sixcontinents.

The Ford Fusion Energi research vehicle was on dis-play in November at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

The idea behind the vehicle was launched last yearwhen Ford and Coca-Cola research teams came togetherto explore innovation opportunities in more sustainableproducts. Both companies use PET, a durable, lightweightplastic also known as polyethylene terephthalate, in a va-riety of products including plastic bottles, fabrics andcarpets. This provided a natural opportunity to bring to-gether both recyclable and renewable technologies.

Since The Coca-Cola Company introduced PlantBottleTechnology to the market in 2009 as the first-ever recy-clable PET plastic bottle made partially from plants, morethan 18 billion PlantBottle packages have been distributedin 28 countries resulting in more than 400,000 barrels ofoil saved.

The Fusion Energi research vehicle uses PlantBottle Tech-nology for seat cushions, seat backs, head restraints, door panelinserts and headliners

REAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 24B

Real Estate News | Residential, Commercial, Loans

# Homes Median # Condos MedianSold Price Sold Price

October 2013 16 585,000 17 $420,000

October 2012 24 $460,000 10 $345,000

Homes Condos

Listed 11/20/13 44 33

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

Lee Lieberg can be reached at 626-826-1120 or Lee@LandzRealEstate.com

OCTOBER TRANSACTION SUMMARY

CommercialReal Estate

Mark Paulson is a Realtor inAlhambra specializing in thesale and leasing of commercialreal estate. He has been a realestate professional since 1976.

BY MARK PAULSON

ANTHONY VENTI REALTORS

Are you a fair-weather landlord?While landlords in the North and Mid-

west are winterizing properties and pre-paring for the cold winter months, thosein warmer climates are still in shirt sleeves— and furnaces are sitting dormant.

Personal injury lawyers receive dozensof calls about carbon monoxide poison-ing each year in the fall and the winter.Residents of California must be particu-larly aware of these threats because we sortof take our weather for granted.

Wall heaters, furnaces, heating ducts,chimneys, and all of the piping involvedwith heating apartments and other build-ings may get neglected in Southern Cali-fornia. But the threat is real even thoughwe may turn our heaters on later in thefall compared to other regions.

Over the last several years, Bailey saidhis law firm has represented several cli-ents who have suffered carbon monoxideinjuries in Southern California.

“Our firm focuses on these cases be-cause they are extremely complex cases tolitigate and maintaining the most up-to-date information on carbon monoxidepoisoning is crucial to success.

“Over the years, we have become ex-tremely knowledgeable about this area ofpersonal injury that often results in per-

Hong Van of Shanghai, WSGVAR president Lee Lieberg and Chairman Alex Lee ofTaiwan at the National Association of Realtors conference in San Francisco. The WestSan Gabriel Valley Association of Realtors is the ambassador association for Taiwan.

West San Gabriel Valley Realtors is2013 Outstanding Ambassador Assn.

The National Association of Realtors® presented West San Gabriel Valley Associa-tion of Realtors with the 2013 Outstanding Ambassador Association Award duringNAR’s Annual Conference and Expo which took place this year in San Francisco.WSGVAR President Lee Lieberg accepted the award Nov. 7. WSGVAR is the Ambas-sador Association to Taiwan and Malaysia and has been hosting inbound and outboundtrade missions with both countries for several years.

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manent brain damage from unsafe wallheaters and other appliances.”

There are a lot of cases in which apart-ment building owners or managers don’tinstall a carbon monoxide monitor andalso don’t check the wall heaters for safeoperation.

Temperatures drop and hundreds ofresidents in a single apartment buildingturn on their heaters at the same time.Those heaters may be 20, 30, or moreyears old. The risk of injury or death issubstantial especially if those applianceshave not been properly maintained bylandlords.

Since carbon monoxide is colorless andodorless, its danger is insidious. Symptomsof carbon monoxide poisoning can in-clude weakness, joint pain, nausea, headache, and confusion.

These symptoms, especially in South-ern California, are often mistaken for flubecause awareness of cold weather anddangers from our heaters are not in theforefront of our minds.

California has a law requiring carbonmonoxide detectors in rental properties.Carbon monoxide poisoning can happenanywhere and in any season.

It can occur from a number of normalactivities, like burning barbecue bri-quettes, running generators, using appli-ances, or warming car engines.

Landlords: Don’t be surprised bycarbon monoxide from heaters

REAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 25B12/2013

REAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 26B

Email: gary.frueholz@dilbeck.com • Web: http://gary.frueholz.dilbeck.com

DILBECK REAL ESTATE • GARY FRUEHOLZ • (626) 318-9436• Para servicio en Español llame a Maria Frueholz • (626) 318-8095

Call Gary for a free market evaluation of your home!

401 E. California Bl. # 101, Pasadena. 2bedrooms, 2 baths. Beautiful immaculateturnkey contemporary condominium locatedto Paseo Colorado/Pasadena Old Town, LakeAvenue dining and shopping. Hardwoodfloors, formal entry, master bedroom withvanity/powder room and walk-in closet,panoramic balcony, stylish wetbar; includesappliances.

842 Oneonta Dr., South Pasadena. 2bedrooms, 1 bath, Beautiful and stylishMid-Century Modern home located on aquiet hillside. Impressive beamed ceiling,elegant stainless steel kitchen appliances(Viking stove) and open floor plan createsfeeling of space and con-nection towonderful outdoor setting. So. Pasadenaschools.

Go to www.garysstories.com forGary’s stories on Alhambra.

Gary Frueholz

2212 Westminster Ave., Alhambra. 3bedroom, 2 bath, lovely turnkey 1,718 SFAlhambra Hills home with remodeledkitchen/bathroom/laundry room, newlyconstructed patio, gleaming hardwoodfloors, beautifully landscaped, formaldining room, central A/C/heat, tastefuldecorator color schemes, in thisstrategically located charming neigh-borhood.

200 N. 5th St., Alhambra. 1 bedroom, 1bathroom beautiful condominium forlease. Separate living room and diningroom, balcony, fresh carpeting, pristinekitchen with spacious refrigerator, washerand dryer, walk-in closet, enclosed parking,and rooftop patio.

New Listing!New Listing!New Listing!New Listing!

BY GARY FRUEHOLZ,DILBECK REAL ESTATE

Few entries to a home were any more spectacular thanthe stairway in the legendary mansion Tara, where ScarlettO’Hara walked down to meet Rhett Butler in the MGMAcademy Award winning motion picture Gone with theWind.

The stairway captures your attention by creating a “lineof sight” that focuses your eye on the stairway and its oc-cupant, Scarlett. And it doesn’t hurt that Scarlett had anhourglass figure with a 20-inch waist either.

But this architectural element that is so often added asan afterthought by architects to merely connect one sec-tion of a house to another can actually be the highlight ofa home. It can be a stunning statement of a house thatsymbolizes the scope, majesty, and mystery of a home.

The mere presence of a stairway reminds the viewer thatthe home they are beholding is substantial since it traversesdifferent levels and the household’s scope cannot be con-tained by one floor alone. Stairways also create an addi-tional barrier in one’s domicile that another only entersupon being given permission by the owner.

This fact is not lost to a good architect. And the properpresentation of a stairway where it can be seen and ad-mired can continually reinforce this fact to a home’s visi-tors.

Words such as staircase, stairwell, flight of stairs, stairs,and stairway are used to describe an architectural compo-nent designed to bridge a large vertical distance by divid-ing it into smaller vertical distances. Each smaller verticalunit of distance is called a step. A series of steps forms astairway.

The origin of the stairway is uncertain. Six thousandyears before the time of Christ, stairs start to appear. Of-ten, they initially are used to overcome obstacles of terrain.

Granite stairs were used in China to lead to the sacredmountain in Tai Shan. And this reminds us of the religioussymbolic significance of stairs as a mechanism to reachcloser to the creator. The tower of Babel, the pyramids ofthe Egyptians and Mayans, and the celestial ladder ofShantung all attest to the religious significance of stairs.

Understanding RealEstate

Gary FrueholzDILBECK REAL ESTATE

626-318-9436

Gary Frueholz is a Realtor withDilbeck Real Estate, a past mem-ber of the Alhambra PlanningCommission, and a certified Se-nior Real Estate Specialist. Mr.Frueholz can be reached at 626-318-9436 or by e-mail atgary.frueholz@dilbeck.com. To see all ofGary’s articles on Alhambra, visitwww.garysstories.com. Gary Frueholz

Staircases work their way into the interior of buildingswith steps being surrounded by walls on each side. Thisapproach is seen in ancient Egypt and Assyria. Rome latertakes the staircase to a new level by introducing vaultedceilings above their flights of stairs in theaters.

Ambitious open interior staircases that provide the ba-sis for Scarlett O’Hara’sstairway in Tara begin toemerge during the time ofMichelangelo and Baroquearchitecture. Dramaticstaircases become a definingelement of castles and pal-aces during this era.

Some terms to keep inmind when consideringstairways are:

Tread. The horizontalportion of a stair that is di-rectly stepped on.

Riser. The vertical por-tion between each tread onthe stair. Some stairwaysthat have an modern ap-pearance may omit risersand only have treads.

Stringer. The structuralelement that supportstreads and risers.

Baluster. The vertical

posts that hold up a handrail.Landing or platform. This is the area near the top or

bottom step of a stairway. An intermediate landing is asmall platform that is built as part of the stairway betweenmain floor levels and is often used to change directions.

Floating Stairs. A flight of stairs where there is no di-rect support underneath the stairs. Lateral support extendsfrom adjacent walls or a central column.

Spandrel. The triangular space beneath a flight of stairsoften used for storage or a closet.

Building codes specify the configuration of stairs. Mea-surements and ratios of risers versus treads are containedin various formulas. And a riser to tread ratio that corre-sponds to a “pitch angle” of 30 degrees is considered opti-mal.

Stairways reflect different architectural styles. Moremodern styles often incorporate a spiral configuration wherestairs are supported by a central pole. More traditional stylescan use elaborate wainscoting on the adjacent walls andelegant supporting posts for the hand railings.

The next time you are looking at homes with your realtorand the house has a staircase, ask yourself if the stairs rein-force the home’s architecture and become a focal point ofinterest. When the answer is yes, those stairs are doing ajob beyond just transporting people; they are sending apowerful and positive subliminal message to future visi-tors.

Go to http://www.garysstories.com to see more sto-ries on Alhambra.

The stairway put Scarlett O’Hara in our midst

Scarlett O’Hara walks down the spectacular stairway atTara in Gone with The Wind.

Mid-Century Modern floating stairway.

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REAL ESTATE & FINANCIAL NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 27B12/2013

SOLD!SOLD!

SOLD!SOLD! SOLD!SOLD!

SOLD!SOLD!674-1351282-6121

DRE# 00465088

BY RUDY LIRA KUSUMA, REALTOR®The vast majority of homebuyers in any mar-

ketplace start searching for homes in the springand discontinue their search by the end of Sep-tember. This is primarily because there are morehouses on the market to choose from.

Also, most home hunters will say things like,“Who wants to move during the holidays” or “Idon’t want to go out looking at houses whenthe weather is crumby” or “A move during theschool year would be too difficult.”

These people are unaware of a widely unknownphenomenon that informed homebuyers have beentaking advantage of for years.

Although there are some advantages to buying ahome in the spring, fall, or summer, there are sev-eral reasons why buying a home during winter cansave buyers thousands.

Probably the biggest misconception amonghomebuyers is that more homes on the marketmeans better deals.

While competition among home sellers doesdrive prices down, there are certain factors that canpush home prices down that winter buyers can takeadvantage of as well.

During the winter months, there are fewerhomes on the market. However, the homes thatare on the market almost always have sellers whoare extremely motivated to get their homes sold.Winter sellers need to move, and smart buyers usethis motivation as leverage when they are sendingin their offers.

A good real estate agent should be able to nego-tiate around $10,000 off the asking price of a homewith a motivated seller.

Another attributing factor to this winter phe-nomenon is a lack of buyers searching for homes.

During the warmer months, especially in SanGabriel Valley neighborhoods, buyers are experi-encing very difficult multi-offer bidding wars.

These bidding wars often drive the price ofhomes well above market value.Being able to avoidthis kind of competition allows buyers to get offersaccepted at or below market value.

Lenders are also more responsive between No-vember and March. Buyers who reach out to lend-ers during the slow season always see their pre-ap-proval letter much sooner and typically have a muchsmoother and easier experience. However, morethan anything, savings is far and away the biggestmotivator for homebuyers.

Buyers in today’s market are looking for onething: great deals. And there is a select demographicof smart buyers who are willing to brave the coldin order to save themselves multiple thousands ofdollars on their home purchases.

Rudy L. Kusuma holds California Real EstateBroker License #01820322. He can be reachedby telephone at 626-780-2221, or online atwww.TeamNuVision.net

Winter can be homebuyer’s best friend

PROVIDED BY CESAR FRANCO

As the end of the 2013 taxyear approaches, set aside sometime to evaluate your situation.Here are some things to keep inmind as you consider potentialyear-end tax moves.

1. The tax landscape haschanged for higher-income in-dividuals

This year a new 39.6% fed-eral income tax rate applies ifyour taxable income exceeds$400,000 ($450,000 if you’remarried and file a joint return,$225,000 if you’re married andfile separately). If your incomecrosses that threshold, you’ll alsobe subject to a new 20% maxi-mum tax rate on long-term capi-tal gains and qualifying divi-dends (last year, the maximumrate that applied was 15%).

That’s not all — you could seea difference even if your incomedoesn’t reach that level. That’s be-cause if your adjusted gross in-

come is more than $250,000($300,000 if you’re married andfile a joint return, $150,000 ifyou’re married and file sepa-rately), your personal and depen-dency exemptions may be phasedout this year, and your itemizeddeductions may be limited.

2. New Medicare taxes ap-ply

Two new Medicare taxes ap-ply this year. If your wages ex-ceed $200,000 this year($250,000 if you’re married andfile a joint return, $125,000 ifyou’re married and file sepa-rately), the hospital insurance(HI) portion of the payroll tax— commonly referred to as theMedicare portion — is increasedby 0.9%. Also, a 3.8% Medicarecontribution tax generally ap-plies to some or all of your netinvestment income if your modi-fied adjusted gross income ex-ceeds those dollar thresholds.

3. Don’t forget the basics —

retirement plan contributionsMake sure that you’re taking

full advantage of tax-advantagedretirement savings vehicles. Tra-ditional IRAs, assuming that youqualify to make deductible con-tributions, and employer-spon-sored retirement plans such as401(k) plans allow you to con-tribute funds pretax, reducingyour 2013 income.

Contributions that you maketo a Roth IRA, assuming youmeet the income requirements,or a Roth 401(k) plan are madewith after-tax dollars, but quali-fied Roth distributions are com-pletely free from federal incometax. For 2013, you can contrib-ute up to $17,500 to a 401(k)plan ($23,000 if you’re age 50 orolder), and up to $5,500 to a tra-ditional or Roth IRA ($6,500 ifyou’re age 50 or older).

The window to make 2013contributions to an employerplan typically closes at the end

of the year, while you generallyhave until the due date of yourfederal income tax return tomake 2013 IRA contributions.

4. Expiring provisionsA number of key provisions

are scheduled to expire at the endof 2013, including:

• Increased Internal RevenueCode Section 179 expense lim-its and “bonus” depreciation pro-visions end.

• The increased (100%) ex-clusion of capital gain from thesale or exchange of qualifiedsmall business stock (providedcertain requirements, includinga five-year holding period, aremet) will not apply to qualifiedsmall business stock issued andacquired after 2013.

• This will be the last year thatyou’ll be able to make qualifiedcharitable distributions (QCDs)of up to $100,000 from an IRAdirectly to a qualified charity ifyou’re 70-1/2 or older; such dis-

tributions may be excluded fromincome and count toward satis-fying any required minimum dis-tributions (RMDs) you wouldotherwise have to receive fromyour IRA in 2013.

• The above-the-line deduc-tions for qualified higher educa-tion expenses, and for up to $250of out-of-pocket classroom ex-penses paid by education profes-sionals, will not be available start-ing with the 2014 tax year.

• This will also be the last yearyou’ll be able to elect to deductstate and local sales tax in lieu ofstate and local income tax if youitemize deductions.

Securities offered through CesarFranco, an independent registered rep-resentative of Royal Alliance Associates,Inc. Member FINRA/SIPC. NWF Advisoryis†not affiliated with Royal Alliance As-sociates, Inc. or registered as a broker-dealer or investment adviser.

Prepared by Broadridge InvestorCommunication Solutions, Inc. Copy-right 2013.

2013 year-end tax planning issues Wall Street OnMain Street

Cesar Franco is an independent financialadviser with Royal Alliance Assoc., Inc.Contact him at 113 W. Main St. #228,Alhambra 91801, 626-588-2417, orcfranco@royalaa.com.

Mortgage & FinanceRudy L. Kusuma, licensed real estate broker,specializes in complex transactionsrepresenting property owners in disposition ofreal estate. He has significant experience inpre-foreclosure sales, short sales, divorcesales, trusts, and probate. Phone him at 626-780-2221 or visit his Web site atwww.TeamNuVision.net. DRE# 01820322

AROUND ALHAMBRA 12/2013PAGE 28B

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