January 2015 Section B - Alhambra Chamber of Commerce

24 Pages·2014·9.68 MB·English

SECTION B
AROUND
5
1
life
0
2

ALHAMBRA
.
N
community
A
seniors / health
J
dining / entertainment
PUBLISHED BY THE ALHAMBRA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
auto / real estate
City Councilmember Luis Ayala and his daughter, Citlali, take a photo with The Tree Lighting Ceremony offered entertainment by the Swingin’ 8 Balls, PopRock
Santa at Downtown Alhambra’s Tree Lighting Ceremony Dec. 5. Academy, and Jayvee Dance.
Santa lights Downtown Alhambra Christmas Tree
Hundreds of kids and their families lined up to take mas tree and then posed with the families for pic- Councilmembers Barbara Messina and Stephen Sham
free photos with Santa on Dec. 5 at Downtown tures. Entertainment was provided by the Swingin’ 8 welcomed Santa and the audience.
Alhambra’s Tree Lighting Ceremony at Renaissance Balls, PopRock Academy, and Jayvee Dance. The Tree Lighting Ceremony was sponsored by the
Plaza. Santa arrived by fire truck to light the Christ- Mayor Gary Yamauchi, Vice Mayor Luis Ayala, and Downtown Alhambra Business Association.
Here’s to the winners
Home Decorating Contest made spirits bright
Twenty-eight Alhambra resi-
dents responded to the City of
Alhambra request to submit their
homes for judging in the annual
Holiday Home Decorating Con-
test, and the best-of-the-best –
the Burgos residence at 1700 Elm
St., the Taylor residence at 321
S. Fremont Ave., the Lopez resi-
dence at 1407 Milton Ave., and
the Villalobos residence at 329 S.
Fremont Ave. – were judged win-
ners. All residents who decorated
made the community bright and
cheerful.
The Burgos residence was
awarded Most Creative. There
The Burgos residence was awarded Most Creative in
was a wish tunnel and a Christ- The Taylor residence was awarded Best Animation.
the City’s Holiday Home Decorating Contest. mas concert, complete with a
dazzling display of light and
color.
The Taylor residence was
awarded Best Animation. Their
home was filled with animated
lights, complete with a moving
Ferris wheel.
The Lopez residence was
awarded Best Overall Lawn Dis-
play. Their home featured a
PVC-pipe structure filled with a
programmed light display.
And, in a dazzling display of
light and color, the Villalobos
residence was awarded Best Use
of Lights Display.
The City of Alhambra thanks
all who participated in this year’s
Holiday Home Decorating Con-
test. Residents should start plan-
The Lopez residence was awarded Best Overall Lawn The Villalobos residence was awarded Best Use of Lights
ning for next year’s Holiday
Display. Display.
Home Decorating Contest.
PAGE 2B SENIOR NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 1/2015
|
Seniors / Retirees News
Activities, Projects, Features
U S E
NDERSTANDING THE ENIOR XPERIENCE
New year a good time to ‘de clutter’
BY DENNIS MCFADDEN excellent opportunity to finally stuff they have acquired over pear larger), and at the first signs
RETIRED PRESIDENT/CEO do something about the clutter years, or even decades, in the of declining health.”
ATHERTON BAPTIST HOMES that has accumulated, not so same house. 2. Develop a plan. Most of
By now, many of your 2015 much over the holidays, as over Professional organizers and us clutter the rooms with great-
New Year’s Resolutions may have a lifetime. services specializing in senior est emotional memories and ev-
already been quietly forgotten. Most of us will admit, even if downsizing offer a number of eryday use. So begin your efforts
However, January still offers an only to a pastor or therapist, that helpful insights and principles for with these rooms. You can start
de-cluttering one’s life, whether with four piles - what to keep,
in preparation for a move to what to donate, what to give to
smaller quarters or simply to family members or friends, and
empower the older person. As what to trash. As you move out-
Karin Martin, who specializes in ward, you will deal with sheds,
what she calls “strategic planning garages, and attics.
for your future” put it: “How If your de-cluttering project
does one sort through and let go aims at moving to Atherton
of possessions collected over a Homes, for instance, or to a
lifetime? It isn’t easy, but the key smaller space, experts suggest us-
is to develop a plan; start the sort- ing “white-board diagrams” of
ing process early, and enjoy the the rooms of your new living
Dr. Dennis E. McFadden is the
journey.” space. If you are simply getting
forner president and CEO of Culling from the many tip rid of the possessions you no
Atherton Baptist Homes, 214 lists, one can begin to cobble to- longer need, this will not be part
S. Atlantic Blvd. Alhambra. gether a strategy for helping the of your plan.
Phone him at 626-863-1768. senior in your life to “de clutter” 3. Involve the kids. It has
in 2015. been my experience working
we have filled our drawers, clos- 1. Start early. Many seniors with seniors that they typically
ets, desks, and garages with pos- wait to downsize until they have overestimate how many of their
sessions that we have not looked suffered a broken hip or a spouse “treasures” will be wanted by
at in years, never use, and can- dies. Ideally, the best outcomes their children. Frequently, when
not remember why we saved. occur when the principals plan an older person dies, a son will
Seniors looking to move into prior to the need manifesting it- pick out a few sentimental items
a senior living community such self. Sid Kirchheimer, who writes and legal papers and turn the rest
as Alhambra’s Atherton Homes on health issues, advises: “Start of it over to a charity. So, having
often complain that their most paring down at least one month a heart-to-heart with one’s chil-
daunting hurdle concerns the is- before you list your current home dren about what, if anything,
sue of what to do with all of the for sale (less clutter makes it ap- CONTINUED ON PAGE 5B
1/2015 SENIOR NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 3B
Joslyn Adult Recreation Center
Joslyn Senior Center presents Elvis, sweetheart dance, seminars
Word has it that Elvis will be in the est $10 fee, or $90 for a table, and enjoy part of the Managing Elder Care, Trusts menu each month, so be sure to check the
room - that is, the Alhambra Room of the an early dinner at 4 p.m. and an early and Medi-Cal series presented by Elder calendar near the front door.
Joslyn Adult Recreation Center, from evening of dancing to live music. It is rec- Law Attorney Carlos A. Arcos at 10 a.m. In addition to informational programs
2 to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Jan. 13, as the Jail- ommended participants wear red. Thursday, Jan. 29. and special celebrations, a hot meal is
house Rock - Dinner with Elvis event More events include: The AARP Driver Safety Program served each weekday at 11 a.m. Attendees
opens a full year of exciting celebrations On the Move - METRO - informa- Refresher Course will be offered from must sign up one day in advance by phon-
at Joslyn. Registration, $10 a person or $90 tional seminar 10 a.m. Monday, Jan. 5. 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. Feb. 18 for those ing 626-458-4455. The suggested dona-
a table, ends on Monday, Jan. 5. METRO representative Gayle McKinney who have previously taken the two-day tion is $2.
Attendees are advised to wear their best will make the presentation. course. Class may be cancelled due to low Informational seminars are free unless
1950s style attire for this event. The per- Health, Wellness, and Wholeness is registration, so sign up right away, with otherwise suggested, but with limited
son who wins the Dress like Elvis Contest the topic at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Jan. 6, pre- proof of the two-day course attendance. space, it is urged that participants make
will win a prize. sented by the County of Los Angeles De- The fee is $15 for AARP members, $20 advance reservations for attendance in the
The Sweetheart Dance, which in- partment of Mental Health. for non-members. Joslyn office, or by phoning 626-570-
cludes dinner and live entertainment, will Working It Out - Landlord and Ten- Programs are frequently added to the 5056.
take place from 4 to 7 p.m. Feb. 11. Space ant Issues informational seminar 10 a.m.
is limited to this first-come, first-served Thursday, Jan. 22, presented by the Asian “When we needed help,
event. Registration to attend begins on American Dispute Resolution Center.
we discovered Vista Cove at San Gabriel”
Friday, Jan. 16. Sign up early for a mod- Trusts, Medi-Cal, and Elder Care, a
Senior Outings takes first-hand look at So Cal
QQuuaalliittyy • Assisted Living
Two coaches of Alhambra seniors will The Getty is one of the most notable
launch the City of Alhambra Senior Out- world-class museums located in the Los • Memory Care
ings 2015 program this month, taking in Angeles area. Lunch is on one’s own, ei- • Respite Care
the sites of the Huell Howser Archives and ther in one of the on-site cafes or in the
Old Town Orange on Jan.16 and the picnic area with a bagged lunch. A visit to
Morongo Casino and Cabazon Outlets the beautiful gardens will provide a refresh- AT SAN GABRIEL
on Jan. 28, outings for which they regis- ing break for an afternoon re-visit to the
tered in December. To find out if any coach galleries.
seats are available, phone [phone]. The Hsi Lai Temple was built to serve
Registration will take place on Tuesday, as a spiritual and cultural center for those
Jan. 6 for February outings. Details are in interested in learning more about Bud-
the winter/fall 2015 Leisure Classes, Activi- dhism and the Chinese culture, located in
ties & Excursions Guide, available at 15 beautiful acres of Hacienda Heights.
www.cityofalhambra.org, Visitors will learn about Ming and Ching
February tours include: dynasty architecture, traditional style of
For more information or to schedule a tour, please phone
Getty Center Museum 9 a.m. to 4:30 buildings, gardens, and statuary of ancient
p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 11. The fee is $12. Chinese monasteries. [phone]
Hsi Lai Temple 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. A guided tour, and a full vegetarian
Wednesday, Feb. 25. The fee is $18. lunch, is included in the fee. 901 W. Santa Anita St., San Gabriel, CA 91776 Lic. #197606796
PAGE 4B HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 1/2015
Health & Medical News|
Hospitals, Physicians, Dentists, Facilities
Very frequent question: Are silver fillings safe?
Are silver fillings safe? I get this ques- are more supportive to the tooth and look
tion daily. better. They range from bonded compos-
The debate about amalgams (alloys) or ites to porcelain fillings and crowns. Be-
silver fillings has been going on since the Ask cause these materials are more technique
1980s, when there was concern raised about sensitive and time consuming and involve
the mercury that is part of the silver fill- a laboratory, they cost more than amalgams.
ing. Studies have been done with sugges-
Do I need to change my amalgam
Dr. Dara,
tions that mercury vapors are released from
fillings?
amalgams and in fact, some countries in
Here is my personal view on the issue:
Europe have banned the use of amalgams.
• I replace an amalgam, or any other fill-
Research still is not complete, and part of
DDS ing, because it is no longer doing what it
the issue is that we don’t know how much
should be doing. If the fillings are leaking,
mercury is released and how much is too
there is a cavity around it, or it isn’t sup-
much.
porting the tooth, it needs to come out and
The main concern with mercury is that
be replaced.
it affects your nervous system. Everyone is
• The most exposure to mercury from
exposed to mercury through the air, drink-
amalgams is when they are removed. Ap-
ing water and through the soil and food.
Dr. Dara Gashparova, D.D.S. is located at 1933 W Valley Blvd. Readers with dental propriate suction and isolation are impor-
As with most substances, the degree of
questions or concerns should contact her at 626-289-6131, or e-mail [email protected]. tant to limit exposure to patients. We use
harm caused by mercury in the body is re-
high-powered suction with a combination
lated to the amount. Very low levels don’t is less than the amount that most people of rubber isolation to make sure the patient
cause any ill effects. At higher levels, for are exposed to in their daily environment does not inhale the vapors.
instance, when workers are exposed to or in the food they eat. • I believe the alternative materials are
mercury through their jobs, mercury can
Facts about amalgam fillings: better; therefore, I avoid placing amalgams.
cause memory loss, anxiety, auto immune
• Amalgams are solid, dependable res- • There is a belief that grinding teeth
disorders, fatigue, tremors, and the inabil-
torations that many adults have had in their together and having high acid levels, from
ity to concentrate.
mouths for more than 15 years. coffee, soda and sports drinks, and citrus
In the past, we thought no mercury was
• Amalgams are easy to place, hold up fruits, elicit more mercury vapor. If this is
released once fillings were placed and hard-
for a long time, and are inexpensive. the case, I consider gradually replacing
ened.
• Amalgams require more tooth removal amalgams (no more than four at a time)
Recent studies have changed this view.
than the new restorations that we have. with alternatives.
Very small amounts of mercury in the form • Amalgams expand and contract.
Many times healthy tooth structure is re- • There are some dietary supplements
of vapor can be released as the amalgam When you drink something hot, the amal-
moved because amalgams don’t bond to like chlorella, cilantro, and garlic that may
filling wears. They also concluded that any gam swells, and when you drink something
teeth. We have to cut an undercut in a tooth help bind and remove mercury and other
amount released from amalgam in the cold, it shrinks. That also contributes to
to hold it in place. That significantly un- heavy metals from the body.
mouth is very low. The amount of mer- fractures over a period of time.
dermines the tooth and can lead to frac-
cury you are exposed to from your fillings tures later on. • There are alternatives to amalgam that CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
1/2015 HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 5B
Time to ‘de clutter’ home
CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5B A “moving sale” can be the fastest way to
they want to keep can make the de-clut- sell furniture, particularly if there are
tering effort move along more smoothly. multiple items. An advertisement in the
4. Keep your memories, eliminate local newspaper, Craigslist, or other so-
the clutter. In our digital age, one can cial media, coupled with bright signs and
reduce a house full of framed photographs directional arrows can enhance the suc-
to files on an inexpensive $5 memory cess of your effort. But, do not expect to
stick. Creative and tech saavy grandchil- raise a lot of money this way. In many
dren can probably transform all of one’s cases, accepting a tax deduction for a do-
favorite pictures into an attractive nation is a faster and less annoying way
slideshow on a DVD, featuring audio to downsize.
commentary or grandma’s favorite mu- 7. Hire a professional service. Senior
sic. The founder of a leading senior tran- living communities have discovered that
sition service reports that “One client had offering a fixed amount of professional
a collection of rare teapots but couldn’t service from a senior relocation service can
take all 78 with her, so she took her three often “seal the deal” for a potential resi-
favorites with her and we made a framed dent overwhelmed by the prospects of
poster of the others.” moving. Hundreds of seniors who moved
5. Donate. Giving away, called to Atherton Homes, for instance, were
repurposing, your treasures can be a bless- aided by a Southern California firm with
ing to others, especially if you do it wisely. a solid reputation for massaging the emo-
Goodwill, the Salvation Army, AmVets, tional issues surrounding downsizing and
Purple Heart, and the thrift shops for lo- assisting seniors in selecting what to take,
cal hospitals and charities are obvious packing, moving, and unpacking in their
choices. Some will even provide compli- new home.
mentary pick ups of your boxes and fur- So, whether you are ridding yourself
niture. Remember that these charities of the burdens of unused possessions, pre-
raise funds by selling castoffs that have a paring to relocate to another home, or
resale value; they do not want to provide wanting to travel lighter and leaner
you with free trash removal. Investigate through life, 2015 represents an ideal time
first to ensure that they will be willing to to “start the sorting process early and en-
accept your items (be they clothing or joy the journey.”
furniture). And always obtain a receipt
Silver fillings
for tax purposes.
Vintage items (e.g., Civil War memo- CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
In conclusion, replacing metal dental
rabilia), expensive equipment, and art
fillings should only be done after careful
items might be better donated to a school
consideration of the long-term health of
or museum. In addition to your tax re-
your teeth. Have a consultation with your
ceipt, you might even receive mention on
dentist, and find the best solution for your
a plaque or in the list of donors.
personal situation. Remember that no “one
6. If all else fails, conduct a yard sale.
size fits all.”
PAGE 6B HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 1/2015
Bleachorexia: excessive teeth whitening
BY JOHN CHAO, D.D.S. crowns, fillings, or veneers on your teeth, ing
Excessive, unsupervised teeth whit- you should be treated under the super- “The ADA recommends that if you
ening, dubbed “bleachorexia,” may lead Smile Talk vision of your dentist. The ADA warned choose to use a bleaching product, you
to receding gums and oversensivity, ac- that there is not enough evidence to sup- should only do so after consultation with
cording to a news segment on Good port long-term, unsupervised, and re- a dentist. This is especially important for
Morning America. This TV program peated use of bleaching products. patients with many fillings, crowns, and
cited Dr. Laurence Rifkin, who treated When consulting with your dentist, extremely dark stains. A thorough oral
five-time World Boxing Council Cham- it would be important to have the front examination, performed by a licensed
pion Mia St. John for “bleachorexia.” teeth examined to determine whether dentist, is essential to determine if
St. John “constantly” bleached her teeth there are fillings, crowns, or veneers and bleaching is an appropriate course of
to the point her dentist warned her that their relative condition. Should “leaky treatment. The dentist and patient to-
her teeth might turn to “mush.” A good fillings” be replaced first to prevent gether can determine the most appro-
thing can become a bad thing, if over- bleaching agents from leaking through priate treatment. The dentist may then
done, said Dr. Rifkin. For that reason, to the nerve? Would dark fillings be advise the patient and supervise the use
some dentists have coined a new term, bleached as white as the teeth? Would of bleaching agents within the context
“bleachorexia,” to describe excessive, or these darker fillings be even more obvi- of a comprehensive, appropriately se-
obsessive preoccupation with teeth whit- ous when the teeth become whiter? quenced treatment plan ... Patients
ening. Crowns and fillings do not whiten. should be cautioned that not enough
Also interviewed on this show was Would there be a contrast problem? Are information is available to support un-
Dr. Jen Ashton, who quoted the posi- the gums in good shape? If not, can in- supervised long-term and/or repeated
tion of the American Dental Associa- For more information, contact flamed gums be irritated and can they use of bleaching products.”
tion (ADA) with regard to teeth whit- Dr. John Chao at 626-308-9104. become painful if exposed to bleaching Nothing can be gained by bypassing
ening. Dr. Ashton stated that teeth whit- Visit Dr. Chao’s Web site, agents? These are the many questions to your dentist and hygienist when you
ening should only be done after consul- chickenswelcome.com ask your dentist before you allow bleach- consider improving your teeth and your
tation and examination with your den- ing agents to be applied to your teeth. dental health by means not recom-
tist. Especially if you already have The ADA statement on teeth whiten- mended by the ADA.
Low-glycemic diets may not improve cardiovascular outcomes
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH not improve insulin sensitivity, lower HDL or LDL lipid Participants spent five weeks eating each of the four
A study comparing low- and high-glycemic index di- levels or reduce blood pressure levels. Results of the study diets being tested. All foods and calorie-containing drinks
ets found no significant difference between the two plans appear Thursday online in the Journal of the American were provided to participants for the duration of each
in reducing cardiovascular risk or reversing insulin resis- Medical Association. five-week period on the test diets. Each diet used the
tance. The study, funded by the NIH’s National Heart, Lung DASH eating plan with variations in carbohydrate and
A number of widely-followed diets have been based and Blood Institute, included 163 overweight adults in a glycemic index levels. The DASH eating plan empha-
on the idea that focusing on foods with a low-glycemic controlled feeding study. Participants had systolic blood sizes vegetables, fruits, and whole grains; includes fat-free
index might improve cardiovascular risk factors and lower pressure levels of between 120 and 159 mmHg, which or low-fat dairy products, fish, poultry, beans, nuts, and
the risk of developing diabetes. But an NIH-funded study means participants at the higher end of this range were vegetable oils; and limits sweets, sugary beverages, and
suggests that using the glycemic index to select foods may considered to have high blood pressure. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
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
To solve your problem
using Dr. Chao’s patented technique,
John C. Chao, DDS, MAGD
of Alhambra Call 888-928-5905
Inventor of Patented
Pinhole Surgery Technique™ * Published in
• Patent No. US 8.007.278.B2 • Patent No. US 8.202.092.B2 The International Journal of Periodontics and Restorative Dentistry, October 2012.
1/2015 HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 7B
For Your Good Health Barrier-breaking drug may lead
to spinal cord injury treatments
Ripples in the hands
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH axons, interacts with chondroitin sulfate
Injections of a new drug may partially proteoglycans, a class of sugary proteins
BY SHEILA YONEMOTO, P.T.
relieve paralyzing spinal cord injuries, that fill the scars.
Patients sometimes ask what I feel
based on indications from a study in rats, Dr. Lang and his colleagues designed a
with my hands when doing treatments.
which was partly funded by the National drug called ISP to block the enzyme and
Oftentimes, I feel heat or vibration,
Institutes of Health facilitate the drug’s entry into the brain
denseness or coolness, empty spots, tor- The results demonstrate how funda- and spinal cord. Injections of the drug
sions, or electrical prickles. Other times mental laboratory research may lead to under the skin of paralyzed rats near the
I feel waves of movement, suction, ad- new therapies. injury site partially restored axon growth
herence, whirling, or solidity. There are “We’re very excited at the possibility and improved movements and bladder
many more sensations you can train that millions of people could, one day, re- functions.
your hands to feel, similar to training gain movements lost during spinal cord “There are currently no drug therapies
the palate to differentiate between subtle injuries,” said Jerry Silver, Ph.D., profes- available that improve the very limited
sor of neurosciences, Case Western Re- natural recovery from spinal cord injuries
tastes, textures, or consistencies.
serve University School of Medicine, that patients experience,” said Lyn
Integrative Manual Therapy(tm)
Cleveland, and a senior investigator of the Jakeman, Ph.D., a program director at the
(IMT) is a body of knowledge that cat-
study published in Nature. NIH’s National Institute of Neurological
egorizes and catalogues numerous
Every year, tens of thousands of people Disorders and Stroke, Bethesda, MD.
manual sensations. Some sensations tell
are paralyzed by spinal cord injuries. The “This is a great step towards identifying a
you where a problem may be in the Sheila Yonemoto, P.T., has been a physi- injuries crush and sever the long axons of novel agent for helping people recover.”
body, similar to a metal detector locat- cal therapist for more than 30 years, specializ- spinal cord nerve cells, blocking commu- For more information on brain research,
ing in integrative manual therapy, using a ho-
ing jewelry or coins buried in the sand. nication between the brain and the body visit: http://www.ninds.nih.gov/disorders/sci/sci.htm.
listic approach. She can be reached at Yonemoto
Other sensations differentiate between and resulting in paralysis below the injury. The NINDS is the nation’s leading
Physical Therapy, 55 S. Raymond Ave, Suite
problems in the blood vessels, bone and On a hunch, Bradley Lang, Ph.D., the funder of research on the brain and ner-
100, Alhambra 91801. Sheila also offers a
lymph, and certain sensations indicate lead author of the study and a graduate vous system. The mission of NINDS is
“Chinese Energy” exercise class. Phone 626-
whether an organ has toxic overload. 576-0591 for more information or visit student in Dr. Silver’s lab, came up with to seek fundamental knowledge about
the idea of designing a drug that would the brain and nervous system and to use
Sounds unbelievable, doesn’t it? Con- www.yonemoto.com
help axons regenerate without having to that knowledge to reduce the burden of
sider the trained musician able to iden-
touch the healing spinal cord, as current neurological disease.
tify individual melodies and harmonies to tune into the flow of energy in the
treatments may require. The National Institutes of Health, the
of specific instruments in a symphonic hands, feet, and body. I often show my
“Originally this was just a side project nation’s medical research agency, includes 27
piece. You can train yourself to tune in patients how to feel their body’s lymph
we brainstormed in the lab,” said Dr. Institutes and Centers and is a component
to particular vibrations, forces, and en- motility to determine if a food will be Lang. of the U.S. Department of Health and Hu-
ergies to obtain information and predict healthy for them. Perhaps one in 10 pa- After spinal cord injury, axons try to man Services. NIH is the primary federal
or plan for future action. tients will be able to do it, whereas nine cross the injury site and reconnect with agency conducting and supporting basic,
Feeling these sensations is similar to out of 10 qigong students will be suc- other cells but are stymied by scarring that clinical, and translational medical research,
plunging your hand into a river. You can cessful. forms after the injury. Previous studies and is investigating the causes, treatments,
feel the direction of the water’s flow even Body parts play an incredible sym- suggested their movements are blocked and cures for both common and rare dis-
though you are not touching any par- phony with different rhythms: breath- when the protein tyrosine phosphatase eases. For more information about NIH and
ticular object. Sonar and ultrasound use ing, circulation, lymph movement, di- sigma (PTP sigma), an enzyme found in its programs, visit www.nih.gov.
sound waves to detect distances and gestion, and sleep. Each individual or-
objects when direct observation is not gan has its own inherent movement.
possible. A signal from the source is re- IMT has identified ways to sense these
flected back. individual rhythms and to harmonize
In my qigong classes, I train people them.
Low-glycemic diets —
CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
red meats. cholesterol levels when compared to the
The diets compared were high-glyce- high-glycemic index/high-carbohydrate
mic index/high carbohydrate; low-glyce- diet.
mic index/ high carbohydrate; high-gly- Janet de Jesus, M.S., R.D., is a nutri-
cemic index/low carbohydrate; and low- tionist for the Center for Translation Re-
glycemic index/low carbohydrate. The search and Implementation Science/ Divi-
low-glycemic index/low-carbohydrate diet sion of Cardiovascular Sciences at the
resulted in similar insulin sensitivity, sys- NHLBI.
tolic blood pressure and HDL and LDL
PAGE 8B HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 1/2015
Karen H. Chao, O.D.
Starting the New Year
with good vision
BY KAREN CHAO, O,D.
While many people make health-re-
lated New Year’s resolutions, they typically
forget to include their vision. Vision plays
such a vital role in our daily lives, yet most
people take it for granted. If they can see
OK, or think their child sees OK, they
incorrectly assume all is well.
The best resolution you could make is
to take the time to educate yourself on the
actual signs that a vision problem could
be affecting your life. Everyone assumes
that the main signs of a vision problem
include trouble seeing in the distance, or
trouble seeing up close if you are over 40
years old, but there are many other symp-
toms.
Did you know that if you have diffi-
culty doing paperwork or have trouble
reading you could actually have a vision
problem? Or, for that matter, did you re-
alize that headaches can also be a sign of a
Dr. Karen H. Chao, O.D. has been an
vision problem?
Optometrist in private practice for more
In addition, children who hate to read
than 20 years. In addition to general op-
and love to be read to usually have a vi-
tometric care, her services include Vision
sion problem, specifically a very correct-
Therapy, Neuro-Optometric Evaluation
able eye coordination disorder.
for Traumatic Brain Injury, Corneal Re-
Other signs people often miss include
fractive Therapy, and Low Vision Services.
trouble seeing 3D movies. If you feel dizzy
She can be reached at 121 S. Del Mar
or your tummy feels funny during or after
watching 3D, there is a very good chance Ave., Ste. A, San Gabriel 91776. Phone
you have a vision problem. Dr. Chao at 626-287-0401 or visit
Unfortunately, when it comes to eye www.TotalVisionDC.com for more informa-
tion.
CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE
1/2015 HEALTH NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA PAGE 9B
New drug for common liver disease improves liver health
NATIONAL INSTITUTES OF HEALTH Diabetes and Digestive and had been diagnosed with defi- because NASH patients are al- Data Safety and Monitoring
An experimental drug aimed Kidney Diseases. nite or borderline NASH. They ready at higher risk for cardio- Board, NIDDK decided to
at treating a common liver dis- “NASH is a common and were randomly assigned to one vascular diseases. stop treatment but continue
ease showed promising results potentially serious disease that of two groups: one took 25 As cholesterol treatment was the study, move all patients
and potential problems in a currently has no approved milligrams of OCA daily and not standardized as part of the into the follow-up phase, and
multicenter clinical trial treatment. Management typi- one received a placebo that re- study, further research is perform no additional liver bi-
funded by the National Insti- cally includes weight loss sembled the OCA pill. The needed to fully understand the opsies, which carry their own
tutes of Health. through diet and exercise,” said study was double-blinded, so potential effect of OCA on risks.
The FLINT study found Averell Sherker, M.D., neither participants nor inves- cholesterol. Adverse cholesterol in-
that people with nonalcoholic NIDDK program official for tigators knew which person was Because of both factors, and creases were not sustained af-
steatohepatitis (NASH) who the NASH Clinical Research in which group. with the concurrence of the ter stopping OCA.
took obeticholic acid (OCA) Network (NASH CRN), Trial investigators intended
had improved liver health dur- which performed the FLINT for the groups to receive the
ing that period, including de- study. drug or placebo for 72 weeks,
creased inflammation and fat in Liver health improved in with an additional 24 weeks of
Fremont Optometry Center
the liver and decreased body 45% of people on OCA versus follow-up off treatment. How-
weight versus people receiving 21% of the placebo group. “Al- ever, planned interim analysis
a placebo. OCA was also asso- though obeticholic acid did not for safety and efficacy showed
ciated with increases in itching eliminate liver disease in that OCA had significant ben-
and total cholesterol. FLINT participants, it demon- eficial effects on NASH-related
The findings of FLINT, or strated a promising effect. liver health.
the Farnesoid X Receptor Larger studies will be required The analysis also found un-
Ligand Obeticholic Acid in to determine the drug’s safety anticipated increases in total
NASH Treatment Trial, were and efficacy,” Dr. Sherker said. cholesterol in the OCA group.
published online Nov. 6 in The FLINT enrolled 283 people They had increased LDL cho-
Lancet. at eight centers across the coun- lesterol (“bad” cholesterol) and
FLINT was sponsored by try. At the study’s start, partici- decreased HDL cholesterol
the NIH’s National Institute of pants were 18 and older and (“good” cholesterol) - notable
Starting the New Year with good vision
CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE
disease, you don’t have any ob- to our precious gift of sight. your eye health as well as your
vious signs. So here, your best Most eye diseases tend to sneak overall health. Retinal cameras
resolutions would include eating up on you. By the time you no- provide us with images of the Se Habla Español
lots of green leafy vegetables and tice a problem with your vision, back of your eye, which become
scheduling your yearly eye exam. it may be too late to prevent any a permanent record in your chart
As the saying goes, an ounce vision loss. so we can quickly and easily com-
of prevention is worth a pound New technology makes it so pare what your eye looks like 2447 W. Valley Blvd. • Alhambra, CA 91803 • [phone]
of cure, especially when it comes much easier for us to monitor from visit to visit.
G H C
ARFIELD EALTH ENTER
Medical Group Inc.
www.garfieldhealthcenter.com
320 S. Garfield Ave. Suite #322
Alhambra, CA 91801 • [phone]
Contact Dr. W. J. Kattar
Doctor of Chiropractic
626-570-9892
By Appointment Only
Services
Chiropractic Care • Physiotherapy
• Acupuncture • Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
A
NNOUNCING
Health Physical Wellness Month
&
H S
OLIDAY PECIAL
$70 for New Patient/Initial Evaluation • $40 Follow-Up Visits
Give the Gift of Health • Gift Certificates Available
No Insurance Needed • No Referrals Needed • Cash Rates
PAIN RELIEF WITHOUT SURGERY
INJURIES
Low Back Arthritic Pain Disc Herniation Work Injury
Neck & Shoulders Chronic Pain Sciatica
Auto Injury
Wrists/Hands Sprain & Strain Radiculopathy
Sports Injury
Hips & Knees Tendonitis Carpal Tunnel
PAGE 10B DINING & ENTERTAINMENT NEWS / AROUND ALHAMBRA 1/2015
Dining & Entertainment
| What’s Happening for Food & Fun
Izakaya Akatora celebrated its grand opening on Dec. 12. From left are Robert Fukui, Al- From left are Izakaya Akatora restaurant owner Nick Linn, Alhambra Chamber Vice presi-
hambra Chamber of Commerce vice president; Frank Chen, Chamber past president; Izakaya dent Frank Chen and owner Michael Cardenas. Izakaya Akatora is located at 115 W. Main
Akatora owner Michael Cardenas; Linda Lee, server; and Chamber Ambassadors Cecelia St., Alhambra and is named after a fishing boat owned by Mr. Cardenas’s grandfather.
Garcia and Key Lee Fukui.
Izakaya Akatora offers authentic,
freshest Japanese sushi, robata
Izakaya Akatora, 115 W. Main St., Alham- Manhattan Beach allowed the fast-tracking of
bra, offers an authentic Japanese sushi and this second location to complete only five
robata (fireside cooking) experience, serving months later. This is Mr. Cardenas’ first venture
only the freshest seafood hand selected by the in the San Gabriel Valley, and he said he is
sushi chefs and delicious skewers and small excited to contribute to the progress and
plates crafted by the kitchen chefs. development of the area.
The restaurant seats 70 people. Late-night Just like Sushi Akatora in Manhattan Beach,
ramen will be served seven days a week. The Izakaya Akatora is named after Cardenas’
restaurant will stay open on Friday and Satur- grandfather’s fishing boat. The restaurant
day until 2 a.m. to provide the community with interior is designed to invoke that Japanese
great food and a wide selection of both Japanese fishing village. The desire for an authentic
imports and American made beer, wine, and ambiance was not achieved lightly, and the
sake. result is a retro chic interior that boasts hand-
“Alhambra has the right type of energy. I painted aged wood, 150-year-old Japanese
Middle East Restaurant
sensed it the moment I spotted this location,” artwork, and even a piece designed to mimic
said owner Michael Cardenas, known for his the back of his grandfather’s fishing boat.
IDG Group (Sushi Roku, BOA Steakhouse, “Izakaya Akatora is located in the heart of
Katana), Lazy Ox Canteen, and Taberna Arros y downtown Alhambra, and our team looks
Vi. forward to being Alhambra’s newest neighbor-
“Alhambra is the gateway to the booming hood hotspot the same way Sushi Akatora is for
Chinese community, and I see the growth Manhattan Beach,” said Mr. Cardenas.
potential. That and the vibrant nightlife of For more information, go to www.facebook.com/
downtown make this spot on Main Street an izakayaakatora, www.instagram.com/akatorala, and
easy choice.” The success of Sushi Akatora in www.akatorala.com.
Family Excursions
produce family fun
From Simi Valley to San Diego,
and offshore to Catalina Island, the
City of Alhambra Family Excursions
program in 2015 provides families
with opportunities to develop fam-
ily memories with unique tours of
the Southern California scene.
On one Saturday each month,
the luxury coach heads off for an-
other special day with families shar-
ing memorable experiences.
The complete registration proce-
dure is outlined in the winter/spring
2015 issue of the City of Alhambra
Leisure Classes, Activities & Excur-
sions Guide, available at
www.cityofalhambra.org. Families are re-
minded that they can now register
for Family Excursions online. Al-
hambra residents have first priority
for Family Excursions, but early reg-
istration is highly recommended.
Scheduled for 8 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Saturday, Jan. 17 is a trip to the
Queen Mary and Long Beach
Aquarium. The fee is $45 for adults
and 12+ years of age. The fee is $35
for children ages 3 to 11.