CUCAMONGA DAM (2 Hour Walk)

CUCAMONGA DAM (2 Hour Walk)

Beginning at Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave, crossing Mountain and then continuing E on 23rd St, crossing San Antonio and Euclid and turning L on Campus. Go N on Campus to 24th St and TR. Go E on 24th to the cul-de-sac and then continue going E through the gate in the wall that leads to Cucamonga Creek Trail. Turn R and go S on the trail and follow the ramp SE and up on top of Cucamonga Dam and proceed E to the spillway. Return the same way that you came, exiting at the 24th St gate and continue W on 24th, crossing Euclid and turning L on San Antonio. TR and go W on 23rd St, cross Mountain, and go W on Mildura Ave to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

PARC CHATEAU NEIGHBORHOOD (1 Hour Walk)

PARC CHATEAU NEIGHBORHOOD (1 Hour Walk)

Beginning at Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave to Mountain Ave and TR. Go S on Mountain, passing 22nd St and TR through the main gate of Parc Chateau on Cannes Ave. TR on Lorraine Dr and go N and then W to Eiffel Circle and then Paris Circle, continue W to the Mildura gate and then return E past Paris Circle to the first sidewalk going S between the houses. Follow it S to the Y and take the RH fork to the gazebo. Take the LH fork S to Charmaine Dr and TR. Go W to Pinot Circle, follow it around and continue W on the S perimeter sidewalk as it traces the W boundary past the tennis courts and heads N. Go past the gate to where the sidewalk heads E to the gazebo and continue E to the Y. Continue E to the park and follow the sidewalk around to the S side of the pool. Continue S to Charmaine Dr and TR to Malati Circle. Follow it around and then return E on Charmaine past the park and bend N to the main entrance. Exit on Cannes and TL on Mountain. Go N on Mountain to Mildura Ave and TL. Go W on Mildura to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

ASHLEY PARK NEIGHBORHOOD (30 Minute Walk)

ASHLEY PARK NEIGHBORHOOD (30 Minute Walk)

Beginning at Mountain View Park, go S on Mildura Ave on the W side of the street past Carissa St and TR on Amanda Pl, through the gate into Ashley Park. Follow Amanda W, Beverly Way N, Ashley Pl E and Sonya Ave S to the Amanda Pl exit. Go N on Mildura Ave to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

MOUNTAIN VIEW WEST (30 Minute Walk)

MOUNTAIN VIEW WEST (30 Minute Walk)

Beginning at MountainView Park, cross Mildura Ave to the W side and go south to Daylily St. TR and go W on Daylily, past the tennis courts and basketball court. Just before turning L, walk up the hill on the railroad tie steps to Marigold St and TL. Go W on Marigold and turn S on Poppy Ave, pass Ash Ave and TL on Tulip St. Follow Tulip S and TL on Carissa St. TL on Daisy St and follow around the park to Alyssum Ave. Go N on Alyssum, passing the pool, and TR on Wisteria Ave. TR on Daylily St and go E to Mildura Ave. Cross Mildura to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

UPLAND SUMMIT NEIGHBORHOOD (1 Hour Walk)

UPLAND SUMMIT NEIGHBORHOOD (1 Hour Walk)

Beginning from Mountain View Park, cross Mildura Ave and go N on Deakin Ave to 24th St. TL and go W on 24th to the dead-end at San Antonio Creek. Return E on 24th and TR on Parkcrest St. TL on Highpoint St by the pool, go E to the cul-de-sac and return W to Starlight Ave. TL on Starlight and then TR on Panorama St to the cul-de-sac and then return E on Panorama and go S past the basketball court and pool to Lookout Ct. TR and go W on Lookout to the cul-de-sac and return E to Crestview. Continue S on Crestview to Forest St. TR on Forest and go W, exploring Woodcrest Way, Ridgemont Way, Fairfield Way, Skyline Way, the basketball courts and Moonridge Court as Forest becomes Meadow Glen Way and goes N. TR on Grandview St to the cul-de-sac and return W to Birkdale St. TR on Birkdale and go N to Highpoint St. TL on Highpoint to the cul-de-sac, return and go E on Highpoint until you see the pool on the RHS. TL and go N on Parkcrest St, TR and go E on 24th St to Deakin Ave. TR and go S on Deakin to Mildura Ave, cross Mildura to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

MOUNTAIN VIEW EAST (30 Minute Walk)

MOUNTAIN VIEW EAST (30 Minute Walk)

Beginning from Mountain View Park, go S on Jasmine Ave past the playground and tennis courts to Dogwood St and TL. Go E on Dogwood to the park and return to Zinnia. TL on Zinnia and W past the pool to the park. TL on Lobelia Ave, go past the park and TL on Fuchsia St. TL on Hibiscus St, go E to the last park and TL on Oleander Ave. Go N on Oleander to Dogwood and TR to Verbena Ave. TL and go N on Verbena to where Oak St goes L and W to Willow Ave. Go N on Willow to Mildura Ave. TL and go W and S on Mildura and TL on Fuchsia St. TL on Lobelia, cross Zinnia, go past the park and TR on Ajuga, continue S on the E side of the park to Zinnia, TL and go E to Jasmine, TL and go N to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

MALLORCA NEIGHBORHOOD (30 Minute Walk)

MALLORCA NEIGHBORHOOD (30 Minute Walk)

Beginning at Mountain View Park, cross Mildura Ave to Mallorca on Cadiz Ave and TR on Mallorca St. Go E on Mallorca to the cul-de-sac, return W on Mallorca, go past the park and tennis courts on the R and continue W to the cul-de-sac. Return E to Alicante Ave and TL. Follow Alicante N to Granada St and TR. Go E on Granada to the cul-de-sac and then return W, passing Alicante to Naples Ave. TR and go N on Naples past the park, basketball court, picnic area and pool, and don’t miss the beautiful view of the mountains straight ahead. Go to where the street turns L on St Tropez St. Go W on St. Tropez, TR on Barcelona Ave and go N to Malaga St. TR and go E on Malaga to the cul-de-sac, return W, passing Barcelona, to the W cul-de-sac of Malaga. Return to Barcelona and go S to St. Tropez, turn R and follow St. Tropez W to where Palermo Ave goes S on the W side of the pool. TR and go W on Genoa St to Deakin Ave. TL and go S on Deakin to Mildura Ave and cross the street to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

ORCHARD TERRACE NEIGHBORHOOD (30 Minute Walk)

ORCHARD TERRACE NEIGHBORHOOD (30 Minute Walk)


Beginning at Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave to Mountain Ave and TL. Go N on Mountain to the first street before 24th St and TL at the entrance gate to Orchard Park. Pass through the gate and TR on Walnut Ave. Follow Walnut N to the cul-de-sac, return and TR on Chestnut St. TR on Hickory Ave and then TR on Citrus St to the cul-de-sac. Go S on the sidewalk past the pool and TL to Walnut Ave. TR and go S on Walnut to the exit gate. TL and go N on Mountain to 24th St, TL and go W on 24th St to Deakin Ave. TL and go S on Deakin to Mildura Ave. Cross Mildura to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

20th STREET NEIGHBORHOOD (3 Hour Walk)

20TH STREET NEIGHBORHOOD (3 Hour Walk)

Beginning from Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave to Mountain Ave, cross Mountain, turn R and go S on Mountain, cross 22nd, 21st, Peppertree Lane, and TL through the opening in the soundwall that connects to 20th St. Going E on 20th, pass the new development on the RHS and then pass the orchard. TR on Rose Ave and follow S to Kenwood St. TR and go W on Kenwood to the orchard and then return E on Kenwood. Cross San Antonio and follow Kenwood E, next to the 210 soundwall, to where it turns L, becomes Quince Way and goes N to 20th St. TR and go E on 20th, crossing Euclid and then continuing E to the dead end. Turn around and head W on 20th St again, going up the following streets to their cul-de-sacs and then returning to 20th and continuing W: Winston Ct, Flower Ct, 2nd Ave/Muir Ct, Tapia Way, (cross Euclid), Palm Ave, Rita Ct, (return S to 20th), La Palma/Leah Ct, Redding Way, Ukiah Way, (pass McCarthy Park, cross San Antonio), Albright Ave to Rae Ct, return S to 20th and continue W to Coolcrest Ave. TR and go N to Solano St, TL and go W on Solano and follow around on Lucinda Ave and Pineridge St to Coolcrest again, then TL and go N on Coolcrest again, follow W on Driftwood St and then S on Shorewood Ave to rejoin 20th St again. TR and continue W on 20th to O’Malley Way. TR and go N on O’Malley to the interesting cul-de-sac-within-a-cul-de-sac and then return S to 20th. TR and go W on 20th to Kelly Ave. TR on Kelly, go N to explore Rae Ct on the L and then continue N to Peppertree Lane. TL on Peppertree and follow W to Mountain Ave. Go N on Mountain to 23rd St, (Mildura Ave), and TL. Follow Mildura W to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

PERIMETER CLUB 2009

PERIMETER CLUB 2009

This has been a successful year for perimeter walking here in Upland, California. I was able to increase my average mileage from 7 to 8 miles per day, although I walked fewer days per week, averaging 5 days, compared with 6 days last year. I completed several perimeter walks in and around the city this year, and I plan to do even more in 2010. My goals remain similar to those from last year, as I look forward to another year. God bless each of you and may your new year be filled with good health and other blessings.

Mark Overt Skilbred

FOG IN THE UPLAND FOOTHILLS---AND SOME REASONS WE LIKE IT HERE

FOG IN THE UPLAND FOOTHILLS—AND SOME REASONS WE LIKE IT HERE

We live in the foothills of Upland, California, on the southern slope of Mt. San Antonio, commonly referred to as Mt. Baldy, which has an elevation of more than 10,000 feet. This has many health benefits, including cooler temperatures, cleaner air, refreshing breezes, protection from gale winds, above-normal rainfall for this area with the resulting lush vegetation, and occasional snowfall. Our foothill weather is greatly influenced by the giant to the north, whose cooling afternoon breezes are so welcome in the summer heat and help to minimize the use of air conditioning. By driving north on Mt. Baldy Road, those who prefer to be at an even higher elevation are just a short drive from winter snow and the mountain chalet experience. We live at the 2000 foot level, where we have rain, drizzle, occasional fog and heavy dew, which sometimes freezes and delays our morning commute by requiring some windshield de-icing. I have learned to appreciate the benefits of cooler, moist weather, especially when walking. Early morning fog usually gives way to sunshine midway through most winter mornings and provides ideal walking temperatures, even for uphill climbs. The morning and evening zephyrs, combined with spectacular sunrises and sunsets supply ideal hiking conditions for a growing number of enthusiasts. Why not join us and experience the health benefits of Upland walks?

Mark Overt Skilbred

McCARTHY PARK (1 Hour Walk)

McCARTHY PARK (1 Hour Walk)

Note: This park is furnished with fine outdoor recreational facilities for both children and adults, including state-of-the-art playground equipment, basketball courts, exercise equipment, horseshoe pits, picnic facilities, clean restrooms, drinking fountains and a perimeter sidewalk for pedestrians and bicycles.

Beginning from Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave to Mountain Ave. (Mildura becomes 23rd St at Mountain.) Continue E on 23rd to San Antonio Ave., cross the street, TR and go S on San Antonio, crossing 22nd and 21st St. McCarthy Park begins on the S side of the fire station on the E side of San Antonio and continues to 20th St. After exploring the park, go W on 20th St and pass through the soundwall opening to Mountain Ave. Cross Mountain to the W side of the street and go N on Mountain to Benson Ave/21st St. Cross over to the N side of Benson, TL and go W on Benson, passing Wentworth and turning R on Sunrise. TL and go W on Sunrise Circle South, follow it around and go out the W exit to Mildura Ave. TR and follow Mildura N to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

SAN ANTONIO PARK (30 Minute Walk)

SAN ANTONIO PARK (30 Minute Walk)

Note: This park has two beautiful baseball fields with ample seating, state-of-the-art children’s playground equipment, clean restrooms and drinking fountains.

Beginning from Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave to Mountain Ave. TL and go N on Mountain to the far end of San Antonio Park, TL and go W on the park perimeter sidewalk to where it bends S and continue through the parking lot to 24th St. TR and go W on 24th to Deakin Ave. TL and go S on Deakin to Mildura Ave. Cross over Mildura to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

UPLAND WALKS--THE BEGINNING OF A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE

UPLAND WALKS—THE BEGINNING OF A HEALTHIER LIFESTYLE

There are more than 100 different walks I have documented in the Upland area, which I will share with you. Some of these are quite short and ideally suited to beginners and those with limitations caused by joint, back and other health factors. Other walks are more strenuous and much longer and should be undertaken in a methodical fashion.

I realize that there are several schools of thought regarding exercise, so here is the approach that works best for me, which you are free to make use of or disregard, as best suits your needs. Not everyone is athletic, but all of us can benefit from the right kinds of exercise, particularly low-impact routines such as walking. There are many who will testify about the benefits of walking, and I can certainly join my voice with theirs in giving my highest recommendation to this form of exercise!

Two years ago I began walking the length of Mildura Avenue and back, which is about 30 minutes for a beginning walker. Although I was about 50 pounds overweight, more importantly, I was desperately in need of a conditioning program that would steadily increase my endurance, tone-up my muscles, tendons and joints, increase my circulation, lower my blood pressure, improve my energy level, increase my resistance, and generally reverse the processes of aging that are common to all of us.

I am happy to report that two years later I have lost about half of my overweight amount and significantly improved my endurance, overall tone, circulation, blood pressure, energy level and resistance, and I have also begun to have some success in slowing down and, in some ways reversing, the aging process.

Walking has done all of this for me with a small investment of time and a modest amount of money spent for a few decent pairs of walking shoes. This is a spectacular bargain that should not be missed if you can muster the will to begin.

Don’t worry about the discipline—that will come naturally as a result of your training, because as you slowly and methodically increase the difficulty and duration of your walks, your energy level will continue to improve and motivate you to continue. There are some days when I can barely wait to go for my walk, and it seems to be unaffected by the weather and other conditions. There are other days when my energy level is lower, and I settle for a slower and shorter walk of more moderate difficulty.

I try to make it as easy as possible to say yes to my resolve and my body, by giving myself a variety of options to respond to whatever mind and emotions, body dynamics and energy are available to me on any given day. This is easier than it sounds, because there are a great variety of combinations available to me that encourage me to go outside and meet the day.

If the day is unusually busy, with lots of items on my to-do list, I will probably settle for a shorter distance that day. If my energy level is low, I will begin with a shorter-planned walk of a more horizontal nature. This is easily accomplished here in Upland by walking east and west instead of north and south, because of the terrain.

Upland is built on the south slope of Mt. San Antonio, (Mt. Baldy), which is over 10,000 feet above sea level. The height of San Antonio Dam is 2260 feet, and Mountain View Park is located at 2000 feet. The dam is about 3 blocks north of MVP, so you can see there is quite a steep rise when walking north. On a low-energy day, I may choose to walk east and west along the foothills, which has a more gradual ascent, and is level in several places. Knowing that this option is available greatly encourages me to begin, and still offers me the option to turn and go south and then north again, should my energy level improve during my walk.

I mention this because it is often the case that after walking for 30 minutes to 1 hour, my energy level is increased to the extent that I want to continue or even increase my level of activity. This led to the discovery that for me, at least, going uphill goes even faster than downhill and that longer strides are actually easier on the joints, even uphill, than shorter strides. This is just an example of what may work for you to increase your motivation and to work with your mind, body and emotions to increase your activity level and improve your overall energy and health.

What began as a feeble attempt, that was not highly motivated and lasted for only 30 minutes, has developed into a daily routine which typically lasts from 2-4 hours, depending on my energy level. I find that it is no longer as much of an effort to begin and continue my chosen route as it was just 2 years ago.

For most of the past 2 years I have averaged about 3 miles per hour, but after recently discovering that I can lengthen my uphill strides, I have improved my pace to between 3 ½ and 4 mph. When you do the math, I averaged walking about 7 miles per day my first year and about 8 miles per day the second year, with the average increasing rapidly for the last 2 months of 2009, by increasing the length of my uphill stride.

Sometimes I walk 6 days per week, but usually our weekends are busy, so I normally only walk Monday through Friday. Your abilities and needs may be different, and I am not telling you my results to persuade you that only my method is the correct one. Whatever motivates you and best suits your needs is the right routine for you.

I want to mention four interesting observations over the past two years: It is often imagined that it is thoughts and motivation which inspire activity and endurance. I have discovered that the opposite is actually more correct. You begin activity, not knowing the result of your effort, and through persistence discover the thoughts and motivation to continue. Action precedes thought and motivation, and not the reverse. In other words, “Just do it!” and everything else will follow.

A second observation is that exercise has a profound effect on your mood. You may begin your walk in a foul mood, thinking only negative thoughts about yourself and your fellowmen, and some time within the first hour, you will notice that not only are you feeling better, but you may not even remember what caused you to be in a bad mood in the first place. For some of us, this factor alone is worth the whole routine.

Another observation is that diet and exercise are often spoken of in that order, conveying the impression that a healthy diet must precede exercise. In fact, in my experience, when you begin to exercise, it is activity which has the greatest impact on your diet, and not the reverse. When my body begins to respond to exercise in beneficial ways, this creates a hunger and mental motivation for a healthier diet and lifestyle, which had not been there before beginning my exercise program.

Lastly, I cannot say enough about the overwhelming value of being methodical about whichever exercise routine you adopt. Your methodical pursuit of a healthy exercise routine begins slowly and increases daily and weekly, with occasional exceptions, until you are surprised with your progress. It is the good habits we get into that are life-changing, and you will be amazed when you look back in a couple of years at the progress you have made. I wish you the best as you begin whichever exercise program seems to work the best for you. Stay active and enjoy your Upland walks!

Mark Overt Skilbred

SAN ANTONIO DAM (1 Hour Walk)

SAN ANTONIO DAM (1 Hour Walk)

Beginning at Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave to Mountain Ave. TL and go N on Mountain and go past San Antonio Park. Continue N on Mountain Lane instead of curving E on Mountain Ave and within a couple of blocks you will pass through the gate to San Antonio Dam. Go up the ramp to the top and go as far W as you can to the spillway. Return E along the top of the dam the same way you came, go back down the ramp and go back out the gate. Continue S on Mountain Lane to the N side of San Antonio Park and then TR and follow W on the perimeter sidewalk and then S through the parking lot to where it intersects with 24th St. TR and go W on 24th to Deakin Ave. TL and go S on Deakin to Mildura Ave. Cross Mildura to MountainView Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

MOUNTAIN VIEW NEIGHBORHOOD (2 Hour Walk)

MOUNTAIN VIEW NEIGHBORHOOD (2 Hour Walk)

Beginning at Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave, TL on Mountain Ave and go N to San Antonio Park. At the N end of the park, follow the perimeter sidewalk W and then S through the parking lot to where it intersects 24th St. Go W on 24th to Deakin Ave and go S to Mildura Ave. Turn R, follow Mildura S and turn R on Somerset Way, explore Oakhurst Ct, and Wetherly Ct, return to Somerset and follow to its cul-de-sac and then return to Hillcrest St. TR and follow Hillcrest to its cul-de-sac, return and TR on Morningside Ave. Go S to explore Roxbury Ct and Mansfield Ct and then follow Morningside Ave as it bends L on 21st St to return to Mildura Ave. Go S on Mildura and TR on Elmhurst Way. TR on Redgrove Way, which becomes Oriole Pl, which becomes Windemere Ave. Follow Windemere Ave S to 20th Ave, TR and go W to Birkdale Ave. TR and go N on Birkdale to its cul-de-sac and return S to Benson Ave. Cross over and go E on Benson to Muirfield Ave. TR and go S to Evergreen Dr and TL. Follow Evergreen Dr E through Looking Glass Neighborhood and pass through the gate to Mountain Ave. TL and go N on Mountain, passing Acacia Fountain, basketball and tennis courts on the LHS and crossing Benson Ave/21st St. Continue N on Mountain, TL on Mildura Ave/23rd St and follow W to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

MOUNTAIN VIEW PARK NEIGHBORHOOD (1-3 Hour Walk)

MOUNTAIN VIEW PARK NEIGHBORHOOD (1-3 Hour Walk)

Mountain View Park is the largest residential development in North Upland. It is situated on both sides of Mildura Avenue between Mountain Ave and Benson Ave. and contains many parks and recreational areas within its boundaries. There are several other smaller residential developments adjacent to Mountain View Park, and together they form a beautiful and park-like environment that encompasses the NW area of Upland, which is bounded by 24th St on the N, the 210 freeway on the S, Mountain Ave on the E, and San Antonio Creek on the W. Any who have not yet experienced this remarkably beautiful area are encouraged to make this a part of your daily exercise routine. See if you agree with others that Mountain View Park and the Mildura Avenue neighborhoods are certainly some of the finest in Upland and anywhere in southern California.

Mark Overt Skilbred

NORTH UPLAND PERIMETER (3 Hour Walk)

NORTH UPLAND PERIMETER (3 Hour Walk)

Beginning at Mountain View Park (MVP), follow Mildura S to where it ends at Benson Ave. Cross over Benson, TR and follow Benson S to the 210 freeway. Return N to the first opening in the wall on the R, go E on Evergreen Drive and pass through the gate to Mountain Ave. Cross Mountain and enter through the opening in the soundwall to 20th St. Go E on 20th to Rose Ave. TR and go S on Rose to Kenwood St. TR on Kenwood to the end, then return and follow E on Kenwood, cross San Antonio and follow Kenwood E behind the 210 soundwall until it turns N on Quince Way and brings you to back to 20th. TR and go E on 20th, cross Euclid and continue E to the deadend. Pass through the fence and make a short, ½ block walk E to Campus Ave. TL and go N on Campus to where it ends at 24th St. TR and go E to the cul-de-sac and then return W on 24th. (24th St forms the northern boundary between Upland and San Antonio Heights.) Cross Euclid and continue W on 24th to San Antonio Ave. TR and go N uphill on San Antonio to where the road divides. Follow the LH fork on San Antonio Crest West to where it intersects Mountain Ave. Turn L and follow Mountain W until it begins to turn S at San Antonio Park. Cross Mountain and go W on the perimeter sidewalk on the N side of the park to where it bends S through the parking lot to 24th St. Turn R and go W on 24th to Deakin Ave. Turn L and go S on Deakin to Mildura Ave. Cross Mildura to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

NORTHEAST UPLAND PERIMETER (3 1/2 Hour Walk)

NORTHEAST UPLAND PERIMETER (3 ½ Hour Walk)

Beginning at Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave to Mountain Ave. Mildura becomes 23rd St at this point, so continue E on 23rd to San Antonio Ave and go S to the S side of 16th St, (Baseline Rd). This is necessary, as there is no sidewalk on the N side of 16th between Campus and Tanglewood. Turn L on 16th and go E to Tanglewood Ave. Go N, crossing 16th, to Hummingbird Lane. Turn R and go E on Hummingbird to where it bends L and goes N on Eastgate Ave. Cross 19th St, where Eastgate becomes Sapphire St and crosses over the 210 freeway. TL immediately behind the 210 soundwall and go W on the bridle path to Cucamonga Creek Trail, turn R and go N, following the drainage canal to Confluence Park Trail Rest on the W side of the bridge. Then continue N alongside Cucamonga Wash until just before the spillway, where you will cross over the wash and continue N on the W side of the spillway to the upramp that takes you onto Cucamonga Dam. Continue NW on top of the dam until it joins back into Cucamonga Creek Trail and goes north to 24th St. TL and exit the trail W through the opening in the wall. Go W on 24th, cross Campus and Euclid and turn R on San Antonio Ave. Go N uphill on San Antonio until it splits and take the lefthand fork on San Antonio Crest West to where it intersects with Mountain Ave. TL and go W on Mountain to where it begins to curve S, cross Mountain to the N side of San Antonio Park, and follow the perimeter sidewalk W and then S through the parking lot to 24th St. TR and go W on 24th to Deakin Ave. Turn L and go S on Deakin to Mildura Ave. Cross Mildura Ave to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

NORTHWEST UPLAND PERIMETER (3 1/2 HOUR WALK)

NORTHWEST UPLAND PERIMETER (3 ½ HOUR WALK)

Beginning at Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave to Mountain Ave. TL and go N on Mountain past San Antonio Park and continue N on Mountain Place to San Antonio Dam, walk up the ramp onto the dam and go W to the downramp just before the spillway. Go down the ramp and go past the spillway to the upramp that leads to the parking lot. Walk across the parking lot, going S on Mt. Baldy Rd to Padua Ave. Turn L and go S on Padua, crossing Baseline, (16th St), and the 210 freeway. Turn R on Shenandoah Dr and follow it around to where it intersects Claremont Blvd. Turn R and go S on Claremont to Foothill Blvd, (Route 66). Retrace your route by going back on Claremont Blvd and turning L on Shenandoah. When you reach Padua/Monte Vista TL and follow N to Baseline, (16th St). TR and go E on 16th to Benson Ave. TL on Benson and go N, crossing over the 210 freeway and then TL on Mildura Ave. Follow Mildura N to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred
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THE NORTH UPLAND AREA (1-4 HOURS)

THE NORTH UPLAND AREA (1-4 HOURS)

Including the North Upland Perimeter, I have listed several walks in the North Upland area with an assortment of walk-times to fit your schedule. Although I show the walks beginning and ending at Mountain View Park, you will want to adapt your own starting and stopping points to suit your needs. My purpose in separating North Upland into various neighborhoods is to offer variety and a comprehensive way to explore all the areas on separate days, depending on your available time. You will find that by completing each of the walks, you will have walked past every home in North Upland. Enjoy your neighborhood walks! Here’s the list:

North Upland Perimeter, San Antonio Dam, Cucamonga Dam and Reservoir, San Antonio Park, McCarthy Park, Mountain View Neighborhood, North Upland Euclid Walk, Fox Ridge Way Neighborhood, Mountain View Park Neighborhood, Mallorca Neighborhood, Upland Summit Neighborhood, Mountain View West, Mountain View East, Ashley Park Neighborhood, Parc Chateau Neighborhood, Lewis Homes North, Lewis Homes South, Evergreen Drive Neighborhood, Looking Glass Neighborhood, Acacia West Neighborhood, Acacia Neighborhood, Wentworth Way Neighborhood, South Mildura Neighborhood, Chelsea Park Neighborhood, Orchard Park Neighborhood, 20th St Neighborhood, 21st St Southside Neighborhood, 21st St Northside Neighborhood, 22nd St Southside Neighborhood, 22nd St Northside Neighborhood, 23rd St Southside Neighborhood, and 23rd St Northside Neighborhood.

Mark Overt Skilbred

UPLAND WESTERN PERIMETER (4 HOUR WALK)

UPLAND WESTERN PERIMETER (4 HOUR WALK)

Begin at Mountain View Park and go E on Mildura Ave, TL and go N on Mountain, pass San Antonio Park and continue N on Mountain Place to San Antonio Dam. Pass through the gate, walk up onto the dam and go W to the downramp just before the spillway. Go down the ramp past the spillway and then up the ramp to the parking lot. Go S on Mt. Baldy Rd to Padua Ave. Go S on Padua, cross Baseline Rd, (16th St), cross over the 210 freeway and TR on Shenandoah Dr. Follow Shenandoah around to Claremont Bl, TR and go S on Claremont, cross Foothill Bl, (Route 66), continue past the Claremont Colleges, RRxing, cross Arrow Hwy, (where Claremont becomes Mills), continue S on Mills to Moreno St. TL and go E on Moreno to Benson Ave. TL on Benson and go N, crossing Arrow Hwy, Foothill Bl, pass Cable Airport, cross 16th St, (Baseline Rd), and continue N on Benson across the 210 freeway and follow Benson as it turns E. Turn L and go N on Mildura Ave until it turns E and brings you back to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

UPLAND COUNTERCLOCKWISE PERIMETER (7 HOUR WALK)

UPLAND COUNTERCLOCKWISE PERIMETER (7 hour walk)

Beginning at Mountain View Park, go E on Mildura Ave to Mountain Ave, TL on Mountain, go N past San Antonio Park and continue N on Mountain Place through the gate and go up the ramp until you are on top of San Antonio Dam. TL and go W until just before the spillway, take the downramp, walk past the spillway and go up the ramp leading to the parking lot. Cross the parking lot, going S on Mt. Baldy Rd to Padua Ave. Go S on Padua, crossing Baseline (16th St) and the 210 freeway and TR on Shenandoah Dr. Follow Shenandoah around to Claremont Blvd and TR. Go S on Claremont, crossing Foothill Bl (Route 66), 6th St (Arrow Route), Huntington Dr, RRxing, Arrow Hwy and Oakdale St and TL on Moreno St. Go E on Moreno, crossing Monte Vista, Central and Benson, (here Moreno becomes 7th St), continue E on 7th to Mountain Ave. Continue E, crossing Mountain and go E through the parking lot and past the locksmith shop and continue E on 7th. Continue E, crossing San Antonio, Euclid and Campus to Grove Ave. TL and go N on Grove, crossing 8th, RRxing, 9th, Arrow Route, San Bernardino Rd and Foothill Bl. Go E on Foothill Bl, (Route 66), turning left on Red Hill. Follow Red Hill uphill past the golf course and TR on Calle Carabe Ave. TL on Valle Vista and continue uphill over the top of Red Hill, passing the school and then passing Cucamonga Creek Trail on the RHS. Continue N to Baseline Rd, (16th St), TL and go W on Baseline to Tanglewood Ave. TR, cross Baseline, go N on Tanglewood to Hummingbird Lane. TR and go E on Hummingbird to where it bends L and goes N on Eastgate Ave. Cross 19th St and follow Sapphire St across the 210 freeway. Turn L behind the 210 soundwall and follow the bridle trail path W to Cucamonga Creek Trail. TR and go N on Cucamonga Creek Trail to Confluence Park Trail Rest. Cross the bridge to the rest area and then go N along the wash until just before the spillway. Cross over the bridge to the W side of the wash and continue N up the ramp onto Cucamonga Dam, and follow NW along the top of the dam until you are on the W side of Cucamonga Reservoir. Follow Cucamonga Creek Trail N to 24th St. TL and go W through the opening in the wall and go W on 24th, crossing Campus and Euclid. TR and go N on San Antonio Ave uphill to where the road divides. Take the LH fork on San Antonio Crest W to where it intersects Mountain Ave. TL and go W on Mountain to where it begins to turn S at the N end of San Antonio Park. Cross Mountain and walk W on the park perimeter sidewalk and then follow the sidewalk S through the parking lot to 24th St. TR and go W on 24th to Deakin Ave. TL and go S on Deakin to Mildura Ave. Cross Mildura to Mountain View Park.

Mark Overt Skilbred

UPLAND CLOCKWISE PERIMETER

UPLAND CLOCKWISE PERIMETER Hours: 7

From Mountain View Park, E Mldura Ave, N Mountain Ave, follow Mountain Ave E to where N Mountain Dr leads you to Euclid Crest W and follow NW to 26th St, follow 26th E to where it curves S and joins with Cucamonga Creek Trail, go SE across the top of Cucamonga Dam and take the last downramp and continue S on Cucamonga Creek Trail to the 210 freeway, follow the bridlepath behind the soundwall E to Sapphire St and go S on Sapphire, cross 19th St, go S on Eastgate, W on Hummingbird Lane, S on Tanglewood Ave, E on 16th St, S Alta Cuesta, S Red Hill, W Foothill Blvd, S Grove Ave, W 7th Ave, through the shopping center, cross Mountain Ave, continue W on 7th Ave until it becomes Moreno St, N Mills Ave, becomes Claremont Blvd, W Shenandoah Drive, N Monte Vista, becomes Padua Ave, NE Mt. Baldy Rd to San Antonio Dam, cross parking lot, enter gate, take downramp to spillway, then upramp to top of W side of dam, walk along top of dam E to the last downramp and S to the gate that leads to Mountain Lane, S to the N side of San Antonio Park, follow the perimeter sidewalk W and then S to 24th St and then go W to Deakin Ave, follow Deakin S to Mildura Ave, cross Mildura to Mountain View Park.

WHAT CHRISTMAS IS ALL ABOUT--THANK YOU GOD, AND THANK YOU CHARLES SCHULZ!

WHAT CHRISTMAS IS ALL ABOUT—THANK YOU GOD, AND THANK YOU CHARLES SCHULZ!

I was reminded today of how much I like “A Charlie Brown Christmas” while I was running an errand in the van. I was listening to Christmas music on KOST, Los Angeles, and the opening song “Oh Tannenbaum” came on the radio—if you are familiar with that jazz version. Before the musicians really get started, Charlie Brown asks a question, “Can someone tell me what Christmas is all about?” and either Lucy or Charlie’s little sister reads him the Christmas story, which I have repeated for you below, and then tells Charlie, “See Charlie, that’s what Christmas is all about.” If we could just believe this simple, but transformational truth, what a profound effect it would have on our lives. I am sure that those shepherds were never the same after experiencing the heavenly host! I invite you to experience that first Christmas with me this year as we remember the joy and wonder of God’s incredible Gift to mankind!

“And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them. “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; He is Christ the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, ‘Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom His favor rests’ When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, ‘Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.’ So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, Who was lying in the manger.” Luke 2:8-16 NIV

So let’s receive this free gift from God! The angel of the Lord says this good news of great joy is for ALL THE PEOPLE, but I wonder how many will truly believe that this really happened, and that this “good news of great joy” is for THEM? Begin today believing this great truth in the depths of your being, and ask Jesus to reveal Himself to you. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year 2010 to you and all of your families from us and our family.

Mark Overt Skilbred

SATISFACTION WITH MANNA

SATISFACTION WITH MANNA

O Bread of Life from heaven,
To weary pilgrims given,
O Manna from above:
The souls that hunger feed Thou,
The hearts that seek Thee lead Thou,
With Thy most sweet and tender love.

O Fount of Grace redeeming,
O River ever streaming
From Jesus’ holy side:
Come Thou, Thyself bestowing
On thirsting souls, and flowing
Till all their wants are satisfied.

O Lord, this feast receiving,
Thy Word of Truth believing,
We Thee unseen adore:
Grant, when our race is ended,
That we, to heav’n ascended,
May see Thy glory evermore.

--Author unknown, but You, oh Lord, know, and You will reward!


Manna represents our daily needs that are satisfied by God, but as this beautiful hymn points out, Manna also represents God’s unspeakable Gift to us in sending the Bread of Life—His Son Jesus, to earth. Christians celebrate this event at Christmastime as they remember the events leading up to Christ’s coming, His announcement by the angels, His humble birth and the humble witnesses who saw Him lying in a manger. Notice that Jesus has been given to weary pilgrims, hungry souls and hearts that are seeking Him. Notice too that Jesus is called a Fount of Grace for those who will accept it from Him, an unending River ever streaming from Jesus holy side, remembering that He shed His precious blood to pay for our sins and that He is continually giving Himself to thirsty souls, and continues giving of Himself until all their wants are satisfied in Him. Notice too the response of those who receive this unspeakable Gift—they believe this Truth, they adore the One Who is yet unseen, and they ask to live in heaven with Jesus for evermore. May we all diligently seek Christ Jesus, Who forgives our sins and grants us eternal life with Him. Merry Christmas to all of you!

{Note: I wasn’t able to find this hymn in a current hymnal. It is becoming difficult to find hymnals at all, anymore. I did finally manage to find it in an old Concordia hymnal that credits Heinrich Isaac with the melody in 1490, and F. Melius Christiansen with the arrangement in 1907. I hope you agree that these old hymns are too precious to be lost and forgotten and that a united effort should be made not only to preserve them for the present and future, but to increasingly restore them to common usage.}

Mark Overt Skilbred

YOU ARE NOT YOUR OWN--YOU WERE BOUGHT AT A PRICE! CHOOSE LIFE--BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS!

YOU ARE NOT YOUR OWN—YOU WERE BOUGHT AT A PRICE! CHOOSE LIFE—BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS!

“Therefore, I urge you brothers, in view of God’s Mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices—holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s Will is—His Good, Pleasing and Perfect Will. For by the grace given me I say to every one of you: Do not think of yourself more highly than you ought, but rather think of yourself with sober judgment, in accordance with the measure of faith God has given you.” Romans 12:1-3

“Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, Who is in you, Whom you have received from God? YOU ARE NOT YOUR OWN. YOU WERE BOUGHT AT A PRICE. Therefore honor God with your body.” I Corinthians 6:19-20

“Were you a slave when you were called? Don’t let it trouble you—although if you can gain your freedom, do so. For he who was a slave when he was called by the Lord is the Lord’s freedman; similarly, he who was a free man when he was called is Christ’s slave. YOU WERE BOUGHT AT A PRICE; do not become slaves of men.” I Corinthians 7:21-23

“This day I call heaven and earth as witnesses against you that I have set before you life and death, blessings and curses. Now CHOOSE LIFE, so that you and your children may live and that you may love the Lord your God, listen to His voice, and hold fast to Him. For the Lord is your life, and He will give you many years in the land He swore to give to your fathers, Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.” Deuteronomy 30:19-20 NIV

With these words, St. Paul introduces us to an entirely new way of relating to the world around us. Instead of being slaves to our own selfish motives and agendas, evil desires and bad habits, Christ invites us to a life of freedom under His Lordship. We are no longer to think of ourselves more highly than we ought, but instead must understand that we have become slaves of Christ through His death on the cross. The price of our redemption is that we give up our freedom to do whatever we choose in order to belong to Christ. “Those who BELONG TO CHRIST JESUS have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires.” Galations 5:24 NIV This is true liberation! “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” John 8:36 NIV Instead of making a fruitless attempt to gain what we cannot keep, we are called to gain that which we cannot lose—eternal life with Christ. But in order to receive this free gift from God, we must sacrifice our personal wills and be willing to endure whatever our service to Christ demands. From the world’s perspective, it looks as though Christians are being deprived of their natural freedoms, but from the Christian perspective, we are really giving up that which we cannot hold onto anyway. From a practical and eternal standpoint, we are exchanging the temporal for the eternal. God tells us to choose life, and it is really this choice that is at the heart of the Gospel. We belong to Christ, and therefore have given up our “rights of ownership” in order to follow Christ’s leadership. It is also true that all of creation belongs to Christ, since He made it, and that no part of creation can legitimately claim to be independent of Him at all. But this is especially true of Christians, since by declaring that we are followers of Christ, we have agreed that we no longer answer to ourselves, but to Him. Why act as if we are free to do whatever we please, instead of pleasing God? Since we do not belong to ourselves, but to God through Christ Jesus, we have been set free from the bondage of our own wills, and have become the servants of Christ. Why not ask Jesus to come and live inside of you and transform you completely, from the inside. Ask Him to show you what “His Good, Pleasing and Perfect Will” is for your life, and then move forward, trusting that “He Who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” Philippians 1:6 NIV

Mark Overt Skilbred

IMPROVING BASKETBALL--PROGRESSIVE TEAM-SPORT REGULATIONS

IMPROVING BASKETBALL—PROGRESSIVE TEAM-SPORT REGULATIONS

I mentioned in a previous article that a worthy goal should be a .500 average for every team in the league, because worthy opponents create more competitive and exciting environments for players and fans and generate greater interest and team profits at the box office and concession stands.

Everyone will reap the benefits and rewards of more balanced competition, so why not begin to even the odds by increasing team-size, limiting players to 16 minutes per game, and requiring that every player who is not sick, injured, ejected or serving a suspension play a minimum of 12 mpg? In the NBA, this would mean increasing the average team size from 13 to 15 members, just to accommodate the 48-minute game total, plus the necessary substitutes for injuries, fouls and ejections. Overtime minutes would also need to be rotationally shared and limited. The net effect of these changes will be to level the talent pools available on the floor at any given moment, whether through the rotation of 5-man units or another substitution strategy which suits the coaching staffs’ preference.

This will have the added benefits of increased levels of game-play, morale, and skill- development for substitutes, the ability to include more high-speed offensive game techniques, full-court press defense, and other methods which previously had limited use to avoid player fatigue. By limiting game-time for regulars and increasing minutes for substitutes, more realistic and balanced demands per player will mean lower stress and injury averages and potential career-extensions for players, more options for coaching staffs and management, and an overall increase in fan support and interest. Additionally, rookies will immediately see service, resulting in accelerating their learning curves, to the advantage of both these new players and their teams.

As a team sport, basketball has proven to be highly successful, primarily because of the emphasis placed on offensive and defensive strategies, assists, rapid-response maneuvers and other team-generated efforts. Predictable objections may include those who fear that lowered stats for regulars will result in the inability to compare year-by-year stat totals, but these can be overcome by the increasingly favorable stats compiled by the entire team. Lowering yearly output-per-player may also extend careers which might otherwise be cut short by depending too heavily on massive short-term production by the regulars, and increasing the chances for fatigue-related injury.


More than any other reasons given, this is an idea worth trying in order to boost every team’s chances to make it to the playoffs, the benchmark by which success in the league is measured, and thereby increasing fan interest and support and ultimately benefiting the entire NBA organization.

Mark Overt Skilbred

NBA STANDINGS FOR DECEMBER 2, 2009

NBA STANDINGS FOR DECEMBER 2, 2009

1. Los Angeles Lakers .824
2. Orlando Magic .789
3. Boston Celtics .778
4. Dallas Mavericks .737
5. Phoenix Suns .737
6. Atlanta Hawks .722
7. Cleveland Cavaliers .722
8. Denver Nuggets .722
9. Portland Trail Blazers .600
10. San Antonio Spurs .600
11. Miami Heat .588
12. Utah Jazz .588
13. Houston Rockets .556
14. Oklahoma City Thunder .556
15. Milwaukee Bucks .529
16. Sacramento Kings .529
17. Chicago Bulls .438
18. Los Angeles Clippers .421
19. Charlotte Bobcats .412
20. Washington Wizards .412
21. New Orleans Hornets .389
22. Indiana Pacers .375
23. Memphis Grizzlies .368
24. Golden State Warriors .353
25. Toronto Raptors .350
26. Detroit Pistons .333
27. Philadelphia 76ers .263
28. New York Knicks .211
29. Minnesota Timberwolves .111
30. New Jersey Nets .000

As December begins, the Lakers are all alone on
top of the NBA, followed by Orlando in second,
the Celtics in third, Dallas and Phoenix tied for
fourth, Atlanta-Cleveland-Denver tied for fifth,
Portland and San Antonio tied for sixth, Miami
and Utah tied for seventh, Houston and Oklahoma
City tied for eighth, Milwaukee and Sacramento tied
for ninth and Chicago in tenth. All of these top-level
teams except Chicago are averaging over .500.
There is no real surprise with the first three positions,
but there is still lots of room to maneuver as we get
closer to the first quarter-stop of the season.

Mark Overt Skilbred

DETOXING THE SYSTEM--FOCUSING ON CURE INSTEAD OF SYMPTOMS

DETOXING THE SYSTEM—FOCUSING ON CURE INSTEAD OF SYMPTOMS

The problem with many addictions and unhealthy lifestyles is that too often we become so preoccupied with the problem that we lose perspective on the solution. The body is frequently cheated of nutritional and exercise necessities which then leads to unhealthy cravings and contributes to further bodily dysfunction. By focusing on ways in which we are able to contribute to our health rather than continuing in an unhealthy lifestyle, we will make changes in our diet and exercise programs and in our entire mental and social attitudes which will support our goals. If you are one of the many in society who feel powerless to meaningfully change the negatives which directly or indirectly contribute to your addictions, what is needed is a methodical transformation of your customary routine.

The next time you are participating in an unhealthy lifestyle, or reaching for alcohol, nicotine, or any other addictive drug, try eating and drinking some of the many nutritionally-helpful foods which will repair damage done to your system. You will be rewarded with actual improvements in your health, which will lead to further progress in your physical and emotional health. It was a step-by-step process which led to your addiction, and it is step-by-step development that will lead you to good health. It is these small changes in habit that will add up to the winning lifestyle you are seeking.

The world is also full of solutions, just as it has been full of problems, when we are willing to seek help. You know that your attitude affects your health, but did you know that your health affects your attitude? When you make those one-step-at-a-time changes in your lifestyle, you will be amazed at the improvement in your whole outlook on life. There are many who will help you attain your goals when they see that you are willing to make the changes that lead to good health. I recommend seeking those who are already well-on-their-way to a healthy lifestyle, such as nutrition and health spa instructors and mentors, life coaches, and workout partners who will be patient with your development.

As you know, negativity is all around us, and can easily lead to self-doubt and attempts to sabotage all of our efforts to improve. Usually the negativity focuses on large, impossible tasks such as trying to change the past, instant transformations, impossible expectations, and other large and difficult solutions. In order to reclaim your progress and stay focused on the goals which lie ahead, you must always do the little, methodical things which lead to good health, by asking yourself, “What can I do today to help myself to get healthy?” Then simply do those daily diet and exercise routines which support a healthy lifestyle.

Accept the challenge to transform your life by taking the small steps that are needed to bring about this change. Start making the small daily changes which lead to good health, and stop worrying about all the other stuff which has kept you a prisoner of your own self-doubt. You will discover that many of your problems are smaller than they were before and that you are no longer bothered by their solution. Just live your life and be grateful for that day’s accomplishments. I and many others send our best wishes!

Mark Overt Skilbred