Alamo_Today_March_2016

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March 2016 The Remarkable Markham: Contra Costa’s Only Arboretum By Jody Morgan

Visitors to the remarkable Markham rarely fail to return repeatedly, whether they initially arrive to stroll the trail, attend workshops, admire the gardens, or purchase plants. Celebrating its 35th year of partnership with the City of Concord as steward of the Markham Nature Park and Arboretum, Markham Regional Arboretum Society (MRAS) continually presents timely programs, installs purposeful plantings, and propagates for sale unusual plants appropriate to the local climate. Winner of Sustainable Contra Costa’s 2015 Award for Sustainable Resource Management, MRAS preserves the natural environment of Galindo Creek and the 17 acres comprising the park.

Patrice Hanlon, pictured with her RES SUCCESS crew, finds visitors of all ages and abilities delight in stopping to observe details of the diverse life forms found at Markham

Recognizing the educational potential of their property, Ira and Bee Markham sold 12 acres including their house to the City of Concord in 1966 with the stipulation that they retain the right to remain in residence as long as they wished.

They continued to plant trees supporting their vision for the nature preserve, but after Bee’s death in 1979, Ira worried about future maintenance of their legacy.

Karen Mahshi, Founding Member and Past President of MRAS, met Ira Markham while serving on the City of Concord Street Tree Committee. The Markham Arboretum Society (“Regional” was added subsequently) gained non-profit status in 1981, as Karen and like-minded individuals joined forces to ensure ongoing upkeep and continued enhancement of the Markham land.

“When MRAS was founded,” she explains, “we were very involved with trees.

The space was simply called ‘the Nature Park.’ We insisted that ‘arboretum’ should be included in the title to emphasize the unique resources of the property.”

Mahshi, a landscape architect, drew plans for the International Garden in 1989. Following city approval, planting began in 1996. Today the site showcases plants from seven global areas with indigenous species adapted to East

Local Postal Customer

Serving Alamo and Diablo Bocce Ball at Livorna Park

By Alamo MAC Chair Anne Struthers

Park-goers of all ages enjoy a game of Bocce Ball. For Alamo residents, bocce courts are coming to Livorna Park! Questions have recently arisen about how the decision was made to bring the courts to our community.

Alamo Parks and Recreation is just one of the many services the County provides to Alamo residents. County Supervisor Candace Andersen relies on the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (MAC), made up of a diverse cross-section of Alamo residents, to advise her and the County on many issues, including what we want in our Alamo parks.

Back in February 2011 the Alamo MAC sent a survey out to nearly 5,000 Alamo households and businesses to find out what they wanted in our local parks. With over 500 responses, the number one suggestion for Livorna Park was the addition of Bocce Ball courts.

The development of the bocce courts was discussed at many of the monthly Alamo MAC meetings from 2011 to 2013, with the Alamo MAC Park Recreation Working Group making field visits to identify the best possible court location. Ultimately, it was decided to put the two courts at the sand volleyball site so that the large grassy area of Livorna Park would remain intact for family and community use.

Grateful Gatherings

See Bocce continued on page 21

Grateful Gatherings (grateful-gatherings.org) is a local non-profit organization whose mission is to provide furniture and household items to those transitioning out of homelessness or poverty. They also help struggling schools with items they may need for education or even assist a family who may be in need from that school community.

On March 5th, local resident Jacque Preble is collecting books for Grateful Gatherings to assist their efforts to help Allendale Elementary School in Oakland. Allendale is opening their library doors for the very first time and are in great need of early readers, Accelerated Reading books, and reading/picture books for the learning-to-read grades. A volunteer at the school said, “This will be the first year the library won’t be used as a storage area!

It’s wonderful to see all of these K-5 kids sit and listen to stories with 100% attention!”

Volume XVI - Number 3 Grateful Gatherings is a 501 (c) 3000F Danville Blvd. #117, Alamo, CA 94507 See MRAS continued on page 18 (3) nonprofit organization serving Telephone (925) 405-NEWS, 405-6397 the greater San Francisco Bay Area.

Fax (925) 406-0547 Driven by volunteers and donations PRSRT STD U.S. Postage Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher of furniture and household goods they PAID Editor@yourmonthlypaper.com have furnished, delivered, and set up Permit 263 Sharon Burke ~ Writer over 60 homes and served over 400 The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do Alamo CA necessarily reflect that of Alamo Today. Alamo Today individuals since 2013, and last year not is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising ECRWSS

See Gatherings cont. on page 21

herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.

Page 2 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

Boulevard View

Ten Foot Good

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor

For a Type A person such as myself, I am constantly striving for perfect results. I know my skillset, I know my potential for what I can do, and I am not settled until I have accomplished my given task with the precision and aesthetic I envisioned.

For many projects, perfection is a great attribute.

Attention to detail and hard work is not something that I have ever heard someone being faulted for in a job interview.

At times, however, this obsessive nature can become enslaving and unnecessary for the task at hand. When buying a new kitchen brush, is it really necessary to do in-depth research to find the best scrubber that has an ergonomic handle and fancy bristles? Or is your time better spent grabbing one that looks like it’ll be good enough? Psychologist Barry Schwartz published a book on this topic ten years ago that is still incredibly relevant today. It is titled The Paradox of Choice: Why More Is Less. Barry argues that the more options we have for any given decision, the less happy we will be. We constantly deliberate the options, and once we have decided upon a choice we are still unsure about the ‘what ifs’ of the others we left behind. It turns into an “analysis paralysis” that can truly waste hours of our precious lives.

Have you been to a popular deli and been overwhelmed by the sheer quantity of sandwiches they offer? It can be an unexpected stress trying to decide on a lunch offering. However, if you accept that you may choose a sandwich that is good, but not the “best (and realize ‘best’ is all relative anyway),” you will end up being much happier (and probably healthier, too) later on.

The same feeling creeps up when I’m in the condiments aisle at the grocery store. Do we really need seven different brands and six different styles of mayonnaise? Reduced calorie, olive oil, garlic flavored, low cholesterol, chipotle, squeeze bottle, glass bottle, plastic bottle?!

Last weekend my husband and I were doing home projects and sprucing up.

HOP TO IT AND BOOK YOUR EASTER BRUNCH AT FAZ DANVILLE TODAY

www.fa z re st a u ra n t s .co m

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There was a window screen that had a big mark on it that had bugged me for a couple years. I had thought it was the result of some paint work we had done, but when I mentioned it to my husband he fessed-up to being the origin of the issue which stemmed from a time he was doing some pressure washing. While I had initially thought I needed to have the screen replaced, what I found upon closer inspection was that the area I thought had been painted white was just shiny aluminum from the black color of the screen being blasted with highpressure water in one spot. One quick trip to my Sharpie drawer and less than five minutes of “coloring,” and my screen was at least “ten foot good” (and probably even three to five foot good!) and no longer bugged me.

Leaders and managers can feel a similar anxiety of choice when delegating a task to another colleague. Yes, you know that you could do a great job on the project or task at hand and would be happy with the results, but is it important enough for you to take it on? Or can you just accept that that person’s interpretations of the task may be different than yours, and accept that you benefitted from the absence of the project on your plate, and that it still got finished? Jonah Lehrer has a message similar to this in his article The Eureka Hunt. As a whole, the article speaks of the frustrating process of trying to force an insight into a particular topic, and how it can actually prevent those insights from occurring. In the hunt to create a ‘zero foot good’ situation, you may not realize the answer until you let yourself accept the ten foot good situation. Then, later on, with the problem in the back of your mind, the true answer may come to you. However, trying to force these things just creates anxiety and frustration.

My daughter is almost done with her undergraduate degree, and I have tried to help her with these lessons. While I do not encourage mediocrity or laziness, it is sometimes important to remind her that if she does not do well on a test, it is not the end of the world. How large of an impact on your life has one test been in your adult life, after all?

While all of these examples vary slightly, they still maintain the same message: Let go. Loosen up a bit. Accept that perfection will not always be attained. Allow yourself to delegate. Ten foot good can, more often than not, be absolutely good enough.

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Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 3

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Xenophon Gala

The Xenophon Therapeutic Riding Center will be holding “A James Bond Extravaganza” gala on March 19th at 6PM at Round Hill Country Club in Alamo.

Xenophon Therapeutic Riding Center offers life-changing experiences for children with a wide range of disabilities. Through equine-assisted activities provided in a safe and secure environment, children achieve goals that they never before dreamed possible. With a horse as their guide, there is no limit to what they can achieve.

Xenophon is a non-profit 501(c)3 registered charity, offering both Therapeutic Riding and Hippotherapy. In Therapeutic Riding, basic horsemanship skills are integrated into therapy goals tailored to each individual’s specific needs.

To reserve your ticket, costing $125 per person, or to sponsor the event, visit www.xenophontrc.org or contact Mari Parino at mparino@xenophontrc.org.

Mark Your Calendars: Annual Egg Hunt and Family Fun Day at the Park

The Rotary Club of Alamo will again sponsor the Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 26 at Livorna Park. Learning from last year’s expanded event, the Rotary Club of Alamo is doubling the number of eggs and will bring back the most loved games and attractions to its Egg Hunt and Family Day at the Park. The event will begin at 9AM and end at 11AM. In addition to the Egg Hunt and a visit by the Easter Bunny, where parents will have an opportunity to take photos, there will also be children’s games, face painting provided by the Monte Vista High School Interact Club (which is sponsored by the Rotary Club of Alamo), and other fun activities. The Egg Hunt will take place at 10AM sharp.

There will be three age groups for the egg hunt: children ages 0-3, children ages 4-7, and children ages 8-10. In past years the egg hunt would start promptly at the assigned time and finish in less than five minutes.

Parents should allow ample time for their children to be on time to participate.

Cleaning and Sorting?

When you’re finished, donate your treasures and support community

Sponsored by the San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church in Alamo

Donations accepted: This k e e Tuesday, March 1, 8am-1pm W ! ! y l n Wednesday, March 2, 9am-8pm o “Big Event” Sale:

Friday, March 4 9am-7pm & Saturday, March 5 9am-Noon San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church 902 Danville Blvd, Alamo, CA 94507 www.srvumc.org

A Community of Changed Lives Changing Our World

Page 4 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

Danville Community Band

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You know about the Danville Community Band, right?

Did you know that for the past decade and a half the Danville Community Band has met weekly to prepare music for their regularly scheduled concerts that are held in Danville and nearby venues? This San Damiano’s 3rd Annual Golf non-profit, all-volunteer band meets and rehearses September through Tournament, Dinner & Auc9on June so they can share their music with audiences like you.

The 85+ band members come from all walks of life. They are teachers, at Diablo Country Club students and retirees, as well as professionals from many differing fields of interest. They are musicians

of a wide reach of ability, and their age ranges from teens to 80+ years. Being a “true” community band, Register at www.sandamiano.org it includes members from Danville and the greater tri-valley region, but also from as far as Modesto, Davis, and Vallejo. A primary goal for any music group is the enjoyment and challenge of learning new, fun, and interesting music and performing it to the best of its ability, and the band members want audiences to share in that enjoyment but also learn some things too. So, in addition to the variety of music that the band plays, music notes are printed in the programs, and the band performances typically include a host announcer who shares music trivia about the composers and the music they have created. Who knew that the original idea for Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride” came during a heat wave in July 1946?

The band continues to flourish under the baton of Robert Calonico (Director of Bands at UC Berkeley) since his appointment to the podium in 2009 by founding director, Dr. Lawrence Anderson. In addition to its regular performance schedule, the band plays at the Memorial Day observance at Oakhill Park with the Viet Nam veterans of the San Ramon Valley, and the Kiwanis Independence Day parade on the 4th of July. This season has had audiences in Rossmoor enjoying a Halloween-themed performance, and the band’s annual Christmas performance was enjoyed by more than 600 holiday revelers.

The band’s final two scheduled sit-down performances include their annual concert at the Blackhawk Automotive Museum at 2PM on Sunday, April 10th, entitled “Museums Around the World,” and their season finale at 3PM on Sunday, June 5th at Community Presbyterian Church, featuring “A Salute to John Williams.” Nothing warms a performer’s heart more than seeing a full house!

For more information about the Danville Community Band or future performances, please visit www.Danvilleband.org.

Friends of the Blackhawk Museums

SRVRWF Presents Republican Senate Candidate Forum

The Friends of the Blackhawk Museums present April Rovero as their March speaker at their program The San Ramon Valley Republican Women Federated Friends of the Blackhawk Museums which will be held on Wednesday, March 9th from (SRVRWF) will present a forum featuring three Republican Presents our March 2016 Speaker Friends of the Blackhawk Museums 10am to noon. April is the founder of the National Coalition Against PrescripAM Senate candidates on Tuesday, March 22nd at 11:30 .

April Rovero Presents our March 2016 Speaker April Rovero The following candidates are: Thomas Del Beccaro, is a tion Drug Abuse (NCAPDA).

April Rovero April’s son, Joey, died of an overdose of prescribed drugs while a student proponent of a flat tax and a comprehensive water plan for California. He is the April Rovero Founder of the National at Arizona State University. Following this tragedy April former Chairman of the California Republican Party and previously served Coalition Against Prescription Drugas Abuse Chairman of the Republican Party in his home county of Contra Costa. A noted founded NCAPDA, and she leads and oversees all aspects of author and media commentator, including for Forbes.com, Tom also serves as the organization. April speaks out whenever she can to prean attorney for the small business community and has, himself, been a small vent prescribed drug related overdose deaths and addiction. business owner for over 20 years. Learn more at delbeccaroforsenate.com.

You are invited to hear this dynamic speaker and learn how Founder of NCAPDA Duf Sundheim is a reformer who knows how to reach across the aisle to she turned a personal tragedy into a national organization that get things done. He played a key role in the only successful recall of a sitting Wednesday, March 9, 2016 is helping many people suffering from similar circumstances.

National Coalition Agains Governor in the history of California. He brought important election reforms to 10:00 am to 12:00 Noon Prescription Drug Abuse April Rovero Founder of NCAPDA The talk will be held in the Auto Dining Room at The In the Auto Dining Room California and pension and education reforms to San Jose. Duf’s Co-Chairs inthe Word…One Museums Pill Can Kill!”

Blackhawk located at 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville.

The Museum The Blackhawk clude George Shultz, Secretary of State under President Reagan, Fresno Mayor “Spread 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Cir National Coalition Against is free to Blackhawk Museums members and their guest. There isDanville, a $15CA 94506 Ashley Swearengin and Cisco Systems Executive Chairman John Chambers. program Prescription Drug Abuse charge for non-members and $10 for seniors.

For answers to questions, email Dee Andy Barkett, former RNC CTO, is the campaign’s CTO. Paul Dukes is the Speaking Event at: atThe dee4life@earthlink.net. national fundraiser, and Rob Collins is the national consultant. Both previously Blackhawk Museums 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle worked for the National Republican Senatorial Committee.

Danville, CA 94506 Thomas Palzar is a conservative Republican running for the United States Alamo-Danville Newcomers Club Are you new to the area or a long time resident, newly retired or emptySenate from California. He has over 32 years of experience in leadership roles nester interested in making new friends and participating in various social in government that he wants to take to Washington for the benefit of California activities? We are a women's organization whose purpose is to enrich the and our nation. Learn more at www.us-senateseat2016.

The Crow Canyon Country Club is located at 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. lives of all its members and their families in a social manner.

Social time begins at 11:30AM with lunch and meeting starting at noon. The cost for Check out all we have to offer by visiting www.alamodanvillenewcomers.

SRVRWF members is $27 and non-members $35. Please RSVP by Friday, March com. RSVP to alamodanvillenewcomers@gmail.com.

18th to srvrwf.lunch@gmail.com. For more information, visit www.srvrwf.org.

For Questions email Dee at: dee4life@earthlink.net

For Questions email Dee at: dee4life@earthlink.net

Founder of the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse

April’s son, Joey, died of an overdose of prescribed drugs while a student at Arizona State University.

Following this tragedy she founded NCAPDA and leads and oversees all aspects of the organization.

April speaks out whenever she can to prevent prescribed drug related overdose deaths and addiction.

You are invited to hear this dynamic speaker and how she turned a personal tragedy into a national organization that is helping many people suffering from similar circumstances.

April’s son, Joey, died of an overdose of prescribed drugs while a student at Arizona State University.

Following this tragedy she founded NCAPDA and leads and oversees all aspects of the organization.

April speaks out whenever she can to prevent prescribed drug related overdose deaths and addiction.

You are invited to hear this dynamic speaker and how she turned a personal tragedy into a national organization that is helping many people suffering from similar circumstances.

Wednesday, March 9, 2016 10:00 am to 12:00 Noon In the Auto Dining Room

“Spread the Word…One Pill Can K

April and her son, Joey

Speaking Event at:

April and her son, Joey

This Program is Free to Blackhawk Museums Members and their guest.

Non Members: $15.00, Seniors: $10.00.

This Program is Free to Blackhawk Museums Members and their guest.

Non Members: $15.00, Seniors: $10.00.

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Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 5

Danville ~ Wonderful home located on a private court with updated kitchen. This home on 2 acres is minutes to 680, WC, and Bart. 4 bedrooms 3 full baths plus a separate detached office/ hobby room with views of the hills from most rooms. Includes a barn and riding arena. Call today for your private showing Listed at $1,650,000

Danville—363 Everett Place Located at the End of a Cul-De-Sac . 4 Beds, 3 Bath, 2,913 sq ft, Designed Throughout w/Contemporary Features. Bonus Room w/Private Entrance, Office, Eat-In Kitchen, Family Room, Formal Dining, Living Room, Master Suite. Expansive Park-Like Yard, Patio, Pool, and Access To Iron Horse Trail. $1,219,000

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Danville ~ Elegant single level Danville masterpiece awaits lucky Buyer. Tall ceilings, hardwoods, top appointments, huge Master Suite, gourmet kitchen make this home anyone’s desired retreat. 1.25 level acres with garages up to 6 cars, horses.

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Page 6 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

ACTIVE LIVES ACTIVE LIVES HEALTHY COMMUNITIES HEALTHY COMMUNITIES

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Spring 2016 Spring 2016 The Alamo Municipal Advisory Council and the Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA are

The Alamo Council and the Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA are pleased to Municipal announce Advisory a partnership to bring new recreation programs to Alamo. pleased to announce partnership to bring new recreation This Spring, the Y willabe offering recreation for your entireprograms family! to Alamo.

This Spring, the Y will be offering recreation for your entire family!

 Youth Recreation Programs:  Youth Recreation Programs: o Spring Basketball League o Basketball ® Camp o Spring Spring Break LEGOLeague o Spring Break LEGO® Camp

 Adult Recreation Programs:  Adult Recreation Programs: o Yoga o o Yoga Beginner Strength and Balance o Strength andtoBalance o Beginner Adult Group Day Trip Gamble Gardens o Adult Group Day Trip to Gamble Gardens For more information, contact the Y at (925) 687-8900 or www.alamorec.org For more information, contact the Y at (925) 687-8900 or www.alamorec.org She’s All That

Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA • 350 Civic Drive Pleasant Hill, CA 94523 Irvin Deutscher Family YMCA • 350 Civic Drive Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

On Saturday, March 19th from 9AM - 3PM at California High School in San Ramon, young girls will be treated to an exciting and distinctive conference.

Past participants have stated they feel these seminars should be mandatory for all middle school girls. Young girls and their parents came away from past conferences saying, “It was everything they could have hoped for.”

“She’s All That” includes inspirational keynote presentations and a selection of workshops. Some of the workshops offered this year are Straight Scoop on Boys, Mean Girls, Cyber Safe and Sane Online, Discover the Writer Inside You, #dramamama, Hoop Dance, Yoga, Find Your Passion, Don’t be Stressed Out, and how to Get Your Parents Off Your Back and on Your Side. Also included in the conference are workshops designed to help parents best cope with the changing teenage years.

There will be Live Your Dream expo booths and engaging speakers designed to inspire young girls. Refreshments and lunch will be served during the day along with raffle prizes at the conclusion of the conference.

This is the 12th annual conference that the Soroptimists of San Ramon Valley has produced. Due to overwhelming enthusiasm for the event from past participants, the Soroptimists work hard to produce an exceptional event every year.

For more information or to register for the event, go to www.soroptimist-sr.org or call (925) 355-2442. The cost of a ticket for the daylong conference is only $35 before March 6th and $40 after. There are also scholarships available for the event.

BRW Present Kevin Krick

The Blackhawk Republican Women (BRW) invite you to an evening with Kevin Krick, Bay Area Regional Vice Chair of the California Republican Party, speaking on Bay Area Republican Strategies & Sea Stories on Thursday, March 10. The event will take place at the Blackhawk Country Club Grille. Everyone is welcome.

Check-in and serving of hors d’oeuvres will begin at 5:30PM, and the meeting and speaker will begin at 6:15PM. The cost is $25.

Captain Kevin Krick has lived a life built on family and service to his country. He began his career in the U.S. Navy with service in the first Gulf

See BRW continued on page 13

Enjoy glorious views of Mt Diablo from this beautiful Westside Alamo home situated on a 1.25 acre lot. Located on a private lane and adjacent to Las Trampas Regional Wilderness Park, this home features 6 bedrooms, 3.5 bathrooms, over 4,700 square feet of living space, a sparkling pool and sport court.

Offered at: $2,275,000

Gina Piper

925.200.0202

www.GinaPiper.com Better Homes & Gardens Tri-Valley Realty / BRE#: 01201349

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Sons in Retirement San Ramon Valley

Looking for things to do in your retirement?

Consider joining Sons in Retirement (SIR) San Ramon Valley Branch 128. The group has monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. Additionally, members have lots of fun participating in a variety of activities such as golf, tennis, bicycling, hiking, bocce ball, bridge, computers, and much more.

Many other activities such as travel, dine outs, excursions, baseball games, and holiday parties include spouses, friends, and guests.

SIR has its next monthly luncheon on Wednesday, March 16th at 11AM. A fee of $23 includes luncheon, speaker and a great opportunity to socialize with at least 150 other retirees from the San Ramon Valley. The March speaker will be Mr. Bill Clarkson, Mayor of San Ramon. Bill will be providing an update on the “State of the City.” There will be ample time for questions & answers. To reserve a space, please email by Thursday, March 10th to info@sir128.com. Meetings are held at the San Ramon Golf Club, 9430 Fircrest Lane in San Ramon.

For more information about this retirement branch and activities, please visit www.SIR128.com.

15 Host Families Needed for One Week Stay by Visiting French Students

For the eleventh consecutive year, students from a large high school in the South of France are coming to Danville. The students will arrive on April 22 nd and depart April 29 th .

The teens stay with local families and have a full itinerary of activities during the days and only require your attention in the evenings and one weekend.

The visit is an ideal opportunity to experience another culture and hopefully consider visiting France in return. Anyone interested in hosting a student (or students!) is welcome to participate.

For more information or to find out about past years’ programs, please contact Martine Causse (teacher in charge of the group) at caussefly@wanadoo.fr or dachary.martine@orange.fr.

There are many happy local host families ready to discuss any questions with you. The local contact is Danville parent Kevin Dimler, who can be reached at kevindimler@gmail.com or (925)997-7226.

Treats for the Troops

Thank you to CVS in Alamo and Lunardi’s in Danville and all of the fabulous customers who make it easier for Delta Nu Psi to collect “gourmet junk food” to send to our servicemen and women in Afghanistan. The group will continue sending packages as long as American military members are in the War Zone. Much of the food sent is not normally available to the troops.

On March 4th Delta Nu Psi members will be at CVS Pharmacy in Alamo, and on March 10th they will be at Lunardi’s in Danville. Collections will be held from 11am to 2pm both days, rain or shine.

Money for postage is also always appreciated. Please help us provide our men and women in the War Zone a touch of home.

For more information, visit www.deltanupsi.org.

Free Tax Preparation

Free tax preparation for the 2016 tax season is available starting February 2016 from AARP’s Tax-Aide and United Way’s Earn It, Keep It, Save It (EKS) programs.

All tax preparers are trained and certified by the IRS. While both programs serve taxpayers of any age, Tax-Aide does not have an income limit in whom they can serve but EKS can only serve individuals whose incomes do not exceed $50,000.

For information or to make an appointment for the Tax-Aide sites serving the San Ramon and Danville areas, please call (925) 973-3250 San Ramon San Ramon Senior Center site or (925) 480-7202 Danville - St. Isidore Ministry Center site. For general information and other site locations, call (925) 726-3199.

For information on EKS sites call 2-1-1 or visit www.earnitkeepitsaveit.org.

Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 7

San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society

You are invited to attend the free March 15 meeting of the San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society from 10AM - noon at the library of the LDS Church located at 2949 Stone Valley Road Alamo. Speaker Kathy Bourges will be presenting the a talk on using DNA results for research.

This program will be of interest to both beginner and the more advanced genealogist.

For information call Ed O’Donnell at (925) 310-4691, visit http:// srvgensoc.org, or e-mail SRVGS@SRVGenSoc.org.

Community, Philanthropy and Celebration

AUTHORS’ FAIRE Wednesday March 23, 9AM - Noon

Roundhill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo $45/Person Includes Valet Parking, Full Breakfast Buffet Moderated by Penny Warner ~ Death of a Chocolate Eater and featuring: Cara Black ~ The Paris Key John Lescroat ~ The Fall Juliet Blackwell ~ Murder in Pigalle MP (Martha) Cooley ~ Ice Shear and Flame Out Sheldon Siegel ~ Special Circumstances RSVP to event@alamowomensclub.org by March 14 Checks may be mailed to P.O. Box 151, Alamo, CA 94507 or Use Eventbrite for both reservation and payment Follow the link at alamowomensclub.org For membership questions call 925-575-7706. For Club rentals call 925-322-0736.

The Club is located at 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo

Page 8 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

Alamo Elementary School Failure is not an Option

By Stan Hitomi, Principal

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Fine Mexican Dining

As much as we hope for March to be another rainy month, we find ourselves at the same time looking forward to the arrival of spring. March signals the start of concert and play season, with our 4th grade play taking place on March 4th in our MPR and the Area Band Festival on March 16th at Monte Vista High School. Additional plays and concerts will follow in the months to come.

All of our students in the 2nd, 4th, and 5th grades perform in a musical play each year. In January-February our 2nd graders were treated to classes taught by the Berkeley Rep School of Theatre right on our campus. I can already see a difference as they head into their upcoming class performances. All of our grade level classes participate in an annual music concert.

Both our instrumental music and chorus programs participate in a rigorous schedule of concerts. The instrumental music program participates in a concert for the Run for Education in October, the Area Band Festival in March, the Area Strings Festival in May, as well as having a winter and spring concert at Alamo School.

This year the advanced strings group performed for district employees at the district office in December. The chorus performed in the Run for Education Concert, and joined advanced strings at the district office concert and the winter concert with the instrumental music program. In addition, they performed at the Contra Costa Teacher In Stone Valley Shopping Center of the Year dinner and at a Golden State Warriors basketball game. Our chorus also participated in the Area Choral Festival in February and will be featured performers at the SRVEF “Night with the Stars” dinner at the Diablo Country Club.

Starting this month, our EdFund is sponsoring art classes in each of our K-5 classrooms. Students will create their own art as they study the Fine Arts. They will study the great masters, learn about the elements of art, and practice various art Enjoy Our Patio Dining techniques. The art instruction will be provided by Carol Berkowitz with lessons that will focus on numbers 1, 2, & 3 of the California State Standards for Visual Arts.

Monday - Saturday: Lunch and Dinner Few of us could disagree that today’s students must be taught the necessary skills Sunday: Dinner only We Offer a Full Bar and Lounge to function in an increasingly complex, conceptual, and globalized 21st-century 3168 Danville Blvd, Alamo Margaritas are a House Specialty society and economy. Students have to acquire so-called “habits of mind” that will enable them to develop the skills of creativity, critical thinking, and problemsolving. Aren’t these 21st century skills, in reality, art skills? At Alamo School we are not only making certain that the arts continue to live on our campus, but rather seeing to it that the arts thrive within our children.

743-8997

Model Program – Part 3

For the past two months I have written about the MTSS (multi-tiered system of support) program that we have created at Alamo School. In January I described a process known as Universal Screening, where we identify students who are struggling and require additional learning support. Last month, I described how we use this data to place students into carefully “leveled” intervention programs and monitor their progress. In this final segment, I will describe how data is analyzed to inform both teachers and parents, and to determine next-steps.

8 In the MTSS program at Alamo, each school year is divided into five cycles (6-7 weeks each) of intervention. During each cycle, students who are identified as at-risk are provided support within one of three tiers of intervention. Within each cycle, students are monitored for progress to determine if the student should continue the current level of If you find her and your name is drawn! support, if support should be increased, or if the student should be exited from intervention. Progress monitoring data is discussed at grade-level meeting by classroom teachers Alamo Zoe has become lost in this paper... and on a campus-level within our RtI (Response to Intervention) steering committee.

Search through Alamo Today and see if you can find her!

At the school or campus-level, the RtI committee looks at school-wide data from benchmarking, progress monitoring, district common assessments, and She is very small, so you will have to look hard if you want to find her.

To be eligible send a letter telling us where you found her, the CAASPP (state test) to get a 360o view of all students. Members of the along with your name and address, to: RtI committee and the principal have access to data from multiple measures Lost Dog! ~ Alamo Today to bring to monthly conversations that help to answer the following questions.

3000F Danville Blvd #117 • Alamo, CA 94507 • Are students who are identified as at-risk receiving the proper level of intervention?

• Are students who are receiving intervention making adequate progress?

• Are there students who should be receiving intervention, who are not?

• Is there a need for more information or communication for a student?

One option that the RtI committee will consider would be to call for an SST. Upcoming Community Meetings and Events An SST (Student Success Team) meeting is one the most powerful tools available AIA - Alamo Improvement Association - Please visit www.alamoca.org in our MTSS program. An SST can be called when a parent, teacher, or other staff for upcoming meetings - Creekside Community Church -1350 Danville Blvd. member seeks to have a broader conversation around a student’s academic or Alamo MAC (Municipal Advisory Committee) - First Tuesday of each behavioral progress at Alamo. An SST may include the classroom teacher, prinmonth 6pm - Alamo Women’s Club cipal, parents, school psychologist, resource teacher, speech teacher, occupational P2B - Police Services Advisory Committee - First Monday of each month, therapist, or any of our intervention specialists. Generally an SST is called when 5pm - Meets at Sheriff Substation, 150 Alamo Plaza a number of intervention strategies have been tried with little or no success. Each P5 - Round Hill Police Services Advisory Committee - Second Wednesday of year, we hold over fifty SST meetings with as many as seven staff members in each month, 7pm - Meets at Round Hill Country Club - Lower Level Meeting Room attendance at a single meeting for a single student. Sitting in these meetings is a CERT classes - Community Emergency Response Team - Visit www. constant reminder that “ALL of our kids, are all OUR kids.” firedepartment.org/community_outreach/cert/upcoming_classes.asp

Lost Dog!

$50 REWARD

Alamo Zoe is Missing

Annette D’Antonio is our winner!

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Rancho Romero Elementary School

By Skye Larsh-Faraghan, Principal

The Fair, Accurate, Inclusive, and Respectful Education Act, also known as the FAIR Education Act (Senate Bill 48), is a California law which compels the inclusion of the political, economic, and social contributions of persons with disabilities and lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender people into educational textbooks and the social studies curricula in California public schools by amending the California Education Code. It also revises the previous designation of “black Americans, American Indians, Mexicans, Asians, [and] Pacific Island people” in that list into “Native Americans, African Americans, Mexican Americans, Asian Americans, Pacific Islanders, and European Americans.” More information can be found on the FAIR Education Act website, faireducationact.com.

Rancho Romero Elementary School is proud of the grass roots efforts taken on by the Inclusion and Diversity Committee, part of PTA, to ensure that all students and their families are fairly represented as well as guaranteeing that students have rich, meaningful, and developmentally appropriate opportunities to learn and practice skill sets needed in today’s society: K-12 educational system, college, and career. Some of the themes that have or will take place at Rancho this year include the following.

• November (Compassion) - Bullying Awareness Month: Bullying awareness is part of a national campaign in the United States that unites communities to educate and raise awareness of bullying prevention. The outcome is to give students a strong voice and practical tools.

• February (Kindness) - Kindness Matters Week: Kindness Matters coincided with the district wide theme, Words Matter. The outcome is to understand that kindness is more than just “nice.” It serves as the foundation upon which our children can build the skills of empathy, compassion, inclusion, understanding, and responsiveness.

• March (Resilience) - Ability Awareness Month: Ability Awareness Month promotes understanding about others who are differently abled, both physically and cognitively; the frustration various disabilities present, along with shared abilities and similarities is a focus. Student Council will join the effort by launching a fundraiser with our local Wheelchair Foundation and Pledge to Humanity.

• April (Activism) - The Act of Doing: In April the school will promote continued cultural responsiveness and inclusivity with a school wide International

Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 9

Festival. Teachers will begin a study and conversation on the topic of gender as a spectrum. The entire school community, students and parents, will participate in reading a single book together - “One School, One Book,” The One and Only Ivan (coordinated by Peggy Cox, 2nd grade, and Sandrine Wright, 4th/5th grade).

Thank you Jackie Waters, PTA President, Carolyn Kaneda, Inclusion and Diversity Committee Chair, and all of the courageous parents and teachers who aim to shape a more just and compassionate world for our children. You are truly making a difference.

Stone Valley Middle School

By Jon Campopiano, principal

What a month it has been! We have successfully moved into our classroom portables, and demolition of our campus will begin soon. Since 1951 there have been high levels of teaching and learning in our original classrooms. We are sad to say goodbye to them, but we are also excited for our adventure in the “Portable Village.”

Students and staff have had amazing attitudes during the transition, and we are thankful for district and community support as learning has gone on without a hitch.

This past week we met with the architects and builders to review the new building, and we will be thrilled to open the school in the fall of 2017. We will post pictures of the designs in mid-March on our school website at http://stonevalley.schoolloop.com. Also on our website, you will find dozens of pictures of the transition to portables, students working in our new garden, and other highlights.

Stone Valley Middle School is blessed with incredibly hard working and diligent students. Over 400 students earned a 3.5 or higher, and we had 141 students with a cumulative 4.0! This couldn’t have happened without supportive parents, dynamic teachers, and school support systems that have allowed our motivated students to thrive. We continue to develop strategies, courses, and 21st Century Learning environments so all of our students can succeed to their full potential.

On top of their studies, over 50 band students went with our talented teacher, Mr. Loomer, to Disneyland and performed with passion and enthusiasm, and represented Stone Valley with great pride.

Finally, we are launching our PRIDE Walk Campaign. Please join us in raising funds to support the integration of technology into all classes and the reduction of class sizes in Math and English.

Page 10 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

San Ramon Valley High School

By Ruth Steele, Principal

As we get closer to spring, AP testing, college acceptances and life changing decision for seniors alongside the day to day struggles that all teens experience, stress levels can begin to rise. As every parent knows, it can be hard to help your child (which includes anyone ages 0-18) especially if their stress causes you anxiety! As a high school, we are trying to find ways to lower stress on campus, but this is a team endeavor, with all adults in every child’s life having a role to play. From March 14th-18th SRVHS is running a low stress week, however there are things that we can all do, all the time to help lower stress for everyone.

See below for some ways that we can help our children and ourselves to cope with the constant pressures that seem to be present in every aspect of raising our children.

Encourage your child to face his/her fears, not run away from them. When we are afraid of situations we avoid them. However, avoidance of anxiety-provoking situations maintains the anxiety. Instead, if a child faces his or her fears, the child will learn that the anxiety reduces naturally in its own over time. Avoidance behavior also causes the most stress in parents – and is often misinterpreted as defiance. Try to understand why your child is avoiding something so that you can help them with strategies to overcome their fears.

Tell your child that it is okay to be imperfect. Often parents feel it is necessary for our children to succeed in sports, school, and performance situations. But sometimes we forget that kids need to be kids. School becomes driven by grades, not by enjoyment of learning. Students may feel that if a test score of 85/100 is good, but not good enough. This is not to say that striving is not important. It is important to encourage your child to work hard but equally important to accept and embrace your child’s mistakes and imperfections.

Focus on the positives. Many times anxious and stressed children can get lost in negative thoughts and self-criticism. They may focus on how the glass is half empty instead of half-full and worry about future events. The more that you are able to focus on your child’s positive attributes and the good aspects of a situation, the more that it will remind your child to focus on the positives. Just trying to think about the positives and things that we are grateful for can improve mood and make one feel better.

Schedule relaxing activities. Children need time to relax and be kids. Unfortunately, sometimes even fun activities, like sports, can become more about success than they are about fun. Instead, it is important to ensure that your child engages in play purely for the sake of fun. This may include scheduling time each day for your child to play with toys, play a game, play a sport (without it being competitive), do yoga, paint, or just be silly.

Model approach behavior, self-care, and positive thinking. Your child will do what you do. So if you avoid anxiety-provoking situations, so will your child. If you face your fears, so will your child. If you take care of yourself and schedule time for your own needs, your child will learn that self-care is an important part of life. If you look for the positive in situations, so will your child. Children learn behaviors from watching their parents.

Encourage good sleep habits. Set a bedtime for your child, and stick to that bed time even on weekends. Also have a 30-45 minute bedtime routine that is done every night. This helps your child to transition from the activities of the day to the relaxed state necessary to fall asleep. Do not let them keep their cell phone or other devices in their bedroom at night time. Kids need at least nine hours sleep a night, and they often cannot create routines to ensure that this happens themselves. Tired kids are more likely to experience stress and anxiety around things that would normally not be triggers.

Encourage your child to express his/her anxiety. If your child says that he or she is worried or scared, don’t say, “No you’re not!” or “You’re fine.”That doesn’t help your child.

Instead, it is likely to make your child believe that you do not listen or do not understand him/ her. Instead, validate your child’s experience by saying things like, “Yes, you seem scared.

What are you worried about?”Then have a discussion about your child’s emotions and fears.

Help your child to problem solve. Once you have validated your child’s emotions and demonstrated that you understand your child’s experience and are listening to what your child has to say, help your child to problem solve. This does not mean solving the problem for your child. It means helping your child to identify possible solutions. If your child can generate solutions, that is great. If not, generate some potential solutions for your child, and ask your child to pick the solution that he or she thinks would work best.

Stay calm. Children look to their parents to determine how to react in situations. We’ve all seenayoungchildtripandfallandthenlooktotheirparenttoseehowtoreact.Iftheparentseems concerned, the child cries. This is because the child is looking to their parent for a signal of how to react to the situation. Children of all ages pick up on their parent’s emotions and resonate with them. If you are anxious, your child will pick up on that anxiety and experience an increase in his/her own anxiety. So when you want to reduce your child’s anxiety, you must manage your own anxiety. This may mean deliberately slowing down your own speech, taking a few deep breaths to relax, and working to ensure that your facial expression conveys that you are calm.

Do not give up! Anxiety and stress can be a chronic struggle, and often the source of a child’s anxiety changes over time so it can feel as though you are always putting out fires. At each grade level there are different triggers. Even our seniors need us to be there for them for support and guidance.

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Monte Vista High School

By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal

It is amazing how fast the year is going by. Over the past month, Monte Vista’s students and faculty have successfully transitioned into spring semester with the end of the school year slowly coming into focus. As an educator, February is a great time to take a deep breath and take a quick accounting of what is happening around school. We have quite a bit on the horizon – which is normal for this time in a school year – but it is nevertheless important to take in a little perspective

before moving forward.

In March, Monte Vista’s students will be participating in the Every15 Minutes program. This two-day campus-wide experience is designed to educate students about the dangers of alcohol and driving. On the first day, students attend an assembly where they witness a staged accident involving student actors who take on the roles of a drunk driver or accident victims. When students return to their classes, every 15 minutes a pre-selected student is removed from class as a reminder that every 15 minutes someone in America dies from an alcohol related traffic collision. The 40 Monte Vista students involved in this part of the program will then attend an overnight retreat facilitated by a staff of counselors, emergency responders, and police officers.

Parents involved in the program will also attend an evening retreat which includes a speaker as well as support counselors. The most powerful part of the program comes when each student writes a letter to their parents starting out with: “Dear Mom and Dad, every fifteen minutes someone in the United States dies from an alcohol related traffic collision, and today I died. I never had the chance to tell you. . .”

Parents are also asked to write similar letters to their children which are shared after the second day assembly. This second school-wide assembly involves a speaker who has lost a child to an alcohol-related accident as well as reading two or three of the student / parent letters. Having been personally involved in the Every 15 Minutes program as a teacher, a principal, a parent, and a victim; I can truly attest to the impact of this program. None of this would be possible without the efforts of a whole team of parents and community members. I would like to thank Gia Woodruff, Kevin Lovell, Kim Bruce, Matt Roderick (Monte Vista’s SRO), and the entire E15M parent team who have placed their energies and passions into this program. I would also like to thank Monte Vista’s PTSA, Monte Vista’s Academic Boosters, SRVUSD, Danville Police, San Ramon Valley Fire, CHP, and Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office / Coroner Division for their support of and participation in our E15M Program.

Monte Vista’s winter athletic teams have mostly finished out their regular seasons. Men’s and Women’s Soccer had their NCS Playoff run, Men’s and Women’s Basketball closed their regular seasons against rival San Ramon Valley, and Wrestling participated in the recent NCS Tournament. In addition, spring athletics began with over 900 athletes participating in 10 sports.

Monte Vista’s arts programs are also active this month. The Monte Vista Choir recently completed their recording for National Public Radio at the San Jose State Concert Hall. Monte Vista’s Theater Department presented their winter play - Agatha Christie’s And Then There Were None, and Monte Vista’s Music program will be performing their Spring Pops Concerts on the 24th and 25th of March. In addition, Monte Vista’s annual Mr. Mustang Contest will be held in the theater on Thursday, March 3rd.

March is also a big month for reaching out to our incoming freshman from our middle schools as well as some of our ongoing students. Monte Vista’s Counseling Department will be hosting an AP Night for parents and students interested in taking Advanced Placement courses on Tuesday, March 8th and two Incoming 9th Grade Parent Nights on March 14th and 15th.

Things are moving quickly at Monte Vista. I encourage you to come out to these events and support Monte Vista’s students as they continue to do amazing things in our community.

Meals on Wheels

Seniors in your community need your support! Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services has been supporting seniors since 1968. Two of the programs, Meals on Wheels and Friendly Visitors, rely on the support of volunteers. We need your help now more than ever. Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers deliver meals to local homebound seniors through regular two hour shifts once per week or as substitute drivers. Friendly Visitors volunteers provide weekly one-hour companionship visits to isolated seniors. To volunteer for either program, please call (925)937-8311.

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Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 11

Page 12 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

A Danube River Cruise Through Eastern Europe

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By Mike Mullery, Alamo World Travel

My wife, Ilene, and I thoroughly enjoy river cruises. We have cruised the Danube from Budapest to Nuremburg, traveled down rivers and seen castles on the Rhine and Mosel, and sailed the Volga, the Mekong, the Napa, and our own mighty Mississippi. Although we have traveled extensively throughout Western Europe, we had not seen much of Eastern Europe. So Ilene, my father-in- law, and I decided to book a river cruise with AmaWaterways on the Eastern Danube.

The three of us boarded the AmaPrima in Rousse, Bulgaria. Since this was Ilene’s and my fifth AmaWaterways cruise, and Len’s second, we knew what to expect—all-inclusive luxury, a spacious stateroom with French balcony (some staterooms have full balconies), excellent food, wine with meals, daily shore excursions, lecturers, free wi-fi, free use of bicycles, and more.

Our first stop was Bucharest, the capital and cultural center of Romania with a population of nearly two million. The most notable sightseeing attraction is the 1,100-room Parliament building built by Chauchescu as a tribute to himself (I recommend not paying the $10 charge to take pictures). Bucharest was also the home of Vlad the Impaler, inspiration for Bram Stoker’s Dracula. With river cruises, the boat docks right in the heart of each village or town. From there we set off each day for our excursion.

Electronic receivers with earplugs are given out so you can always hear the guide, and different walking speeds are accommodated. We usually walk with the brisk walk group, but traveling with my father-in-law on this trip we went with the “gentle walkers.” One group bicycled for their tours.

Our next stop was Vidin, Bulgaria, home to the Baba Vida fortress built in the 10th-14th centuries, and home also to the Beogradchik rock formations. The next day we passed through the Iron Gates, a gorge on the Danube between Romania and Serbia with steep cliffs and dramatic rock formations. To enjoy this most spectacular scenery, we enjoyed presentations by guest speakers and spent most of the time on the upper deck or in the front of the ship where we had perfect views.

Belgrade, the capital and largest city in Serbia, was our next stop. Occupied since prehistoric times, it was conquered by the Romans, Attila the Hun, and others in past times. Ancient walls and fortresses provide fascinating sights. Next we were off to Novi Sad, the second largest city in Serbia. It is another fascinating city with the picturesque Petrovaradin Fortress. This stop was followed by Croatia’s largest port, Vukovar, home of archeological sites dating to the Bronze Age. We then visited Pecs, another ancient city in Hungary. Every day was spent in a fascinating city and every day we took a fascinating tour.

At the end of our seven-night cruise, we disembarked in Budapest, a beautiful city of bridges, hills, and castles. Ilene and I had visited Budapest in the past, and we were eager to see it again. We thoroughly enjoyed our tour and knowledgeable guide. After Budapest, we took an optional tour to Vienna. Vienna is the elegant hub of art, music, and history and home to the Schönbrunn palace and Mozart. The perfect ending to our Danube adventure was an evening at the palatial Kursalon concert hall listening to Vienna’s greats, Mozart and Strauss.

We hated to end our trip, but as usual, when one trip ends, we immediately started planning additional trips. A word of warning, if you have not travelled--it is addictive!

Mike Mullery has 10 years’ experience as a travel agent and many more years travelling. He has cruised on 15 different cruise lines mainly on the ocean, but he has also taken nine river cruises and many land tours. He has been in 50+ countries and 48 states. He can be reached at 925-837-8742 x 14. Mike’s wife, Ilene, has owned Alamo World Travel and Tours for 35 years. Alamo World Travel provides professional travel service on cruises, tours, river cruises, and resorts for individuals and groups. The office is located at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 255, in Alamo Commons between Ace Hardware and the Peasant’s Courtyard restaurant. Please stop by, call, or email info@alamoworld.com. Or visit www.alamoworld.com which has extensive destination information and hundreds of cruises and tours to explore. Advertorial

Sustainable Danville Area Inside Cosmetics

By Cynthia Ruzzi

Have you seen the short video, ‘The Story of Cosmetics’ by Annie Leonard? I was floored by the facts presented so simply. Even though I am someone who spends a lot of time reading food labels and trying to stay away from processed foods, I rarely stop to consider what my latest skin care regimen (read wrinkle reducer) might be doing to my health and that of the environment.

Keeping your family healthy should include more than focusing on what they put into their bellies. Have you considered what skincare products might do to them? At home, look at the labels of your favorite products – while you might have fun trying to pronounce words like METHYLISOTHIAZOLINONE, you might be shocked to find this chemical is linked to immunotoxicity. Hopefully, that will be enough for you to ‘wash that shampoo right out of your hair’ and look more closely at the other products you’re using. Honestly, if you can’t say it, should you spray it, slather it, or even dab it?

Other parents have come to similar conclusions. Dara O’Rourke, a professor of environmental and labor policy at the UC Berkeley, was prompted to start the company GoodGuide after realizing he didn’t know what was in the sunscreen he had applied on his young daughter’s face. After checking analysis that most consumers don’t have easy access to, Dara found the lotion contained an endocrine disrupter, two skin irritants, and a carcinogen activated by sunlight. Now GoodGuide helps consumers make purchasing decisions by providing online and mobile information on the health, environmental, and social performance of products and companies.

While shopping, I can use my iPhone to scan bar codes on the items I’m considering purchasing, and the GoodGuide application gives me a score on the product’s safety. And to help teens understand the importance of non-toxic sunscreen, here’s an easy to read guide from the Environmental Working Group http://static.ewg.org/ reports/2014/teensunscreen/pdf/EWG_teensunscreen_guide_2014.pdf.

The average adult woman uses 12 different products daily, and for the average teen girl that number is closer to 20. When you figure that each product averages 20 chemicals (some not required to be listed), that’s approximately 400 potential toxins our teens are exposed to daily. This means that when our teenage girls are

most susceptible to chemical damage to their maturing bodies, they are exposing themselves to higher levels of potentially harmful cosmetic ingredients. A few years ago, the Environmental Working Group did a very readable and relevant study about the burden of hormone altering chemicals on teen girls www.ewg. org/book/export/html/26953. Hmm, if we aren’t moved to free ourselves from the beauty industry’s hold on our teens’ fragile psyches, how about protecting their physical health from unknown and hidden chemicals?

Remember, if a chemical is not ingested, then they are not reviewed rigorously by the FDA. Skincare products can use terms like ‘Herbal, Natural, and Organic’ without the legal restrictions applied to food. If you use a body lotion every day on your largest organ, your skin, you can expose yourself through absorption to a significant amount of toxins. We can start by cutting down our exposure to toxins with our water and food, but don’t forget about what we apply to our skin.

Look in your cabinets and check that the products you use aren’t harmful to you and your family. Don’t forget to check infant care products as many leading baby shampoos have formaldehyde and dioxane. And while you’re ‘cleaning house,’please consider replacing antibacterial soaps which often contain triclosan, a carcinogen linked to developmental and reproductive toxicity. Visit GoodGuide at www.goodguide.com or use the cosmetic safety database provided by the Environmental Working Group www.cosmeticsdatabase.com for guidance and to check what’s in your products.

Once you’ve cleaned those cabinets for your health, go one step further and make sure aren’t ‘eating’ your exfoliate. Popular cosmetic manufacturers use microbeads in facial scrubs, soaps – even toothpaste – to add an abrasive cleaning quality to their product. Microbeads are tiny bits of plastic that are designed to wash down your sink and shower drain as you use the cleaning product. Unfortunately, these tiny bits of plastic also make it past our water treatment facilities and flow by billions of particles into our local waterways. Microbeads sponge toxic chemical pollutants along their travels and become snacks for fish that are caught for human consumption. So, if you like to eat fresh water fish or seafood, there’s a pretty good chance those microbeads and their pollutants wind up in your stomach. Check whether you’re skin products contain microbeads by using EWG’s iphone app Skindeep or visit their website, EWG.org. Have a favorite natural, home-made skincare routine? Share it with us at Facebook.com/sustainabledanville and remember to visit us at www.sustainabledanville.com.

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Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 13

Brad Gothberg’s Private Inventory Homes Are Selling Off Market FAST

Current properties that are not on the market but are available in Brads Private Inventory: Alan Drive, Pleasant Hill: 4BD, 2BA approx 1932 sq.ft. Asking $619,500 Westside Alamo, Single level: 4 BD, 2.5 BA approx 2600 sq.ft. 1/2 acre lot Asking $1,450,000

SOLD in 5 Days 215 Valley Oaks Dr. Alamo, CA Alamo - Gorgeous setting on more than 1 full acre lot with amazing, almost 180 degree views of Mt. Diablo and nestled in the hills for privacy. Features approx 4600 + sq.ft. with 4 BD and 2.5 BA + an expansive bonus room.

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50 Camino Monte Sol Alamo, CA Alamo - Exquisite, Custom Spanish Estate! 5 BD/4.5 BA 5800+/- + office. M/Suite w/walk in closet, priv Balc & FP. Chefs Kitch, pool, raised spa, outdoor kitchen. Pvt. road on nearly 1 acre w/room for vineyard.

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Call 925.998.5151 For A Free Home Evaluation BradGothberg.com | BradGothberg.properties | SRVHomeInfo.com Contra Costa’s County Animal Services Department is Serving You

Nearly every community in Contra Costa utilizes the County’s Animal Services Department. Antioch is the only city that has its own program. Contra Costa’s Animal Services Department is committed to protecting the health, safety, and well-being of all people and animals in our community through enforcing state and local laws, providing compassionate care for every animal regardless of its temperament or condition, and reducing the number of animals that enter our County shelters.

To help the County achieve its mission, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors recently appointed Beth Ward to be the new animal services director. She replaced retired director Glenn Howell, who had served the department for over a decade. Ms. Ward brings a wealth of experience in animal service and welfare. She came to the County after serving as the vice president of the Silicon Valley Humane Society and previously as the director of animal care for the Peninsula Humane Society. Ms. Ward plans to place an increased emphasis on lifesaving, with a goal of significantly reducing the number of euthanized animals, and animal surrenders, increasing the department’s live-release rates.

Contra Costa Animal Services is the largest animal welfare organization in Contra Costa County. The department operates two shelters, in Martinez and Pinole, where it provides high-quality animal care services: shelters homeless, abandoned and lost animals; places animals in safe, caring homes; and provides education and services to enhance the lives of people and their animal companions.

Since most cities rely on the County’s Animal Services, our officers are kept quite busy. The job duties and responsibilities of our Animal Services Officers range far and wide. Below are just some of the services our Officers, Sergeants, and Lieutenants perform on a daily basis.

• Animal cruelty investigations • Illegal animal fighting investigations (dog fighting and cockfighting) • Sick and injured animal pick-up (domestic animals and wildlife) • Loose and/or injured livestock response • Animal rescue

• Stray dog patrols • Nuisance investigations • Response to dead or live animal impound requests • Response to rattlesnake calls • Public education regarding the safe handling and humane care of animals Are you interested in helping? Our Animal Services team is always in need of volunteers. The only requirement is that you must be at least 18 years of age. Some areas that need volunteers include Martinez Lost and Found, Canine Companion, Feline Friend, Bunny Buddy, Humane Education, Mobile Adoption Team, and Foster Program, to name but a few. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Noell Crosse, Manager, Volunteer Program at (925) 335-8335 or via email at Noell.Crosse@asd.cccounty.us.

For more information, to file a complaint, or to request assistance on any of the above, please call (925) 335-8300 Tuesday through Friday, 8AM to 9PM, and Saturday 8:30AM to 5PM. After regular business hours or on Sunday, Monday, and major holidays, please call the Sheriff’s Office Dispatch at (925) 646-2441.

My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon, and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us or (925) 957-8860.

BRW continued from page 6

War in 1991. Krick has been active in Republican politics since he could first vote. Krick works professionally in the private sector at APL, one of the world’s largest container shipping companies, as Senior Director – Security/Environment. He has served in the George Bush administration and the Department of Homeland Security. He also holds a commission as a Captain in the Navy.

As the father of two sons, Kevin is very active in Boy Scouts of America, assisting in a leadership role alongside his wife, as well as being Scoutmaster.

Please make your reservations with a check for $25 made payable to “Blackhawk Republican Women,” by noon on Tuesday, March 8th, with Jane Parish, 366 Jacaranda Dr. Danville 94506-2125, janeparish@sbcglobal.net, or (925) 216-6663.

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Page 14 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

Harley Farms By Linda Summers Pirkle

Brilliant yellow mustard fields, tulips and daffodils popping up, and baby animals are some my favorite signs of the coming spring. I had the luck to grow up in the Bay Area in the 60’s, and our family home located on the east side of Danville backed up to hills and a pasture for cows. What fun it was seeing springtime calves from my own backyard.

Probably the cutest animal in my limited exposure in the farm category is a baby goat. On a recent trip to Pescadero my husband and I happened to be at the right place at the right time. As we walked up to the entrance of Harley Farms Goat Farm and Cheese Shop, a chalk board sign welcomed us with the exciting news that a showing of the first baby goats born this spring was to take place at noon.

As scheduled, a tall young man dressed in jeans and flannel shirt walked by carrying two adorable little kids, just two days old. He placed them in a small fenced area with the mama goat. What a show those little guys put on for our group of excited onlookers. Up and down they went with their little wobbly legs. Every so often they took time out from their adventures to rest and nuzzle each other. It was so adorable. The mama goat provided sustenance after their many attempts at standing and walking.

Harley Farms, a restored 1910 dairy farm, is located in Pescadero, an hour and half drive from the Bay Area where Alpine American goats are raised on the 12 acre farm. The goats are milked each day at 5AM and 5PM, and each goat produces a gallon of milk per day. That gallon is made into one pound of delicious cheese. You can purchase fromage blanc, ricotta, and feta made with edible flowers, basil, sunflower seeds, sundried tomatoes, walnuts, and pistachios. Harley Farms cheeses have won over thirty national ribbons from the American Cheese Society and two world medals.

I spoke to Meryl, part-time Harley Farms employee, while she was assembling delicious samples of crusty French bread slices with award winning cheese. “It’s always a good day at Harley Farms. We rarely get the cranky customer. Who can be that way with all these goats?” She mentioned that the recipes for Harley Farms products including Lavender honey, Habanera jelly and my favorite, Harissa hot sauce (North African spicy sauce) are the recipes from Harley Farms’ Chef Joe. The owner of Harley Farms, Dee Harley, was at the register on our visit. She said they expect over 300 babies to be born during kid season which lasts from mid-February to late May. With her delightful British accent (she is from Northern England in Yorkshire) she welcomed visitors all morning and answered questions about goats and the many products in the country store. Lines were long, but no one seemed to mind since everyone was sampling the various delicious cheeses, truffles, honey, and delicious cheesecake (chocolate and lemon).

Harley Farms is located at 205 North Street, Pescadero. Their website is harleyfarms.com and phone number is (650) 879-0480.

Spring time hours are Thursday thru Monday, 10AM - 4PM. Tours which last an hour sell out quickly; check their website for availability. You may visit Harley Farms and see the goats in the pasture (along with llamas) without taking a tour. Their online calendar lists the various events throughout the year including Solstice tours, May Day events, and Equinox tours.

Their Farmstead lunches and dinners are very popular.

Harley Farms is available for Two day old baby kids at Harley Farms private events and weddings.

An added bonus when visiting Harley Farms in the springtime is the 12 mile stretch of incredible views along Cabrillo Highway with field after field of gorgeous bright yellow mustard and the ocean beyond.

Linda Summers Pirkle, travel consultant and long term Danville resident, has arranged and led tours for the Town of Danville for several years. Inspired by the many wonderful places to visit in the Bay Area, she organizes day trips, either for groups or for friends and family. “What a great place to live, so much to see, so much to do.” To share your “Quick Trips” ideas email Coverthemap@gmail.com.

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Danville-Alamo Garden Club

Claire Splan, author of California Month by Month Gardening and California Fruit and Vegetable Gardening books, will be speaking at the Danville-Alamo Garden Club (DAGC) meeting on Thursday, March 10 starting at 9:15 for refreshments. The meeting starts at 9:45AM at the Alamo Women’s Club at 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo.

The club’s website is www.dagc.us. For answers to questions, contact Susan at atsusansgotbling@sbcglobal.net.

Mt. Diablo Branch, California Writers Club Workshop and Luncheon, March 12

C.S.Lakin will present a workshop on “The fatal Flaws of Fiction Writing” at the next luncheon meeting of the Mt. Diablo Branch of the California Writers Club (CWC) on Saturday, March 12 at Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant, 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill.

Ms. Lakin will discuss the following common flaws: overwriting, weak construction, POV violations, telling instead of showing, too much backstory, and description deficiencies and excesses.

C.S.Lakin is the author of twenty-two fiction and non-fiction books and is an award-winning blogger at LiveWriteThrive. She works full-time as a writing coach and book copyeditor, and is passionate about helping writers see success.

Check-in is from 8:30 to 9am. The workshop is from 9am to 12pm, followed by a luncheon. The cost is $40 for CWC members, $50 for guests.

Reservations are required, and must be received no later than noon on Wednesday, March 9th. Contact Robin Gigoux at ragig@aol.com, or call 925-933-9670.

Search and Rescue

The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team needs volunteer members to respond to missing person incidents, disasters, and other critical incidents. Team members are on call 24/7 year-round. The program provides required training; including wilderness traveling, first aid, map and compass usage, tracking disaster response, and search skills; and may also include special training for canine, equestrian, technical, mountain bike, or other rescue skills. For information and applications, visit www.contracostasar.org or call (925) 646-4461.

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Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 15

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Japanese Americans in the San Ramon Valley: The Ajaris By Beverly Lane

In May of 1942, Japanese Americans in the valley met at the Danville Depot and left their homes here for good. The surprise attack at Pearl Harbor and America’s entry into World War II focused government suspicion on 120,000 Japanese nationals and Japanese Americans, all of whom were sent to internment camps, surrounded by barbed wire and towers with armed guards. In hindsight, we see the wartime hysteria which created these camps and realize the injustice represented by them.

There were about 15 Japanese American farm families in the San Ramon Valley, many of whom had lived here for decades. They were cooks and farmers, leasing land and cultivating pears, walnuts, tomatoes, and other crops. Immigrant parents were restricted from becoming citizens or owning property, but their American citizen children were not.

The Ajari family farmed over 100 acres next to the Danville Highway just north of Danville. Their five children attended local school five days a week, and then they went to Japanese language school in a room next to Fukuchi’s store (east of Hartz Ave. on School St. in Danville). Two of them, Jun and Phil, learned Japanese fluently. Jun was an excellent student who graduated from SRV High in 1934 and UC Berkeley and became a pharmacist.

Their father, Eddie Ajari, had just been nominated president of the local JapaneseAmerican Club. Not long after Pearl Harbor, Eddie was picked up by the FBI and removed to a camp in Bismarck, North Dakota. His family didn’t know where he was for months. Neighbors and some fellow students thought the worst and made life uncomfortable for the family. The Ajaris worried they would be further condemned if they kept any Japanese items in Phil Ajari

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their house and threw precious records and photographs into San Ramon Creek.

Long story short, the family ended up in the Gila River Reservation Internment Camp in Arizona. Phil had already been drafted and became a Japanese translator in the Philippines, always with a Caucasian soldier as bodyguard. Jun had received a fellowship to study in Japan and was on a ship returning home on December 7; he ended up stuck in a camp for Nisei in Japan for the war’s duration. Charlie graduated from high school in 1941 and was conscripted into the military in late 1944. The oldest boy, Hideo, was farming in Colorado and stayed there because of this essential work.

Two boys, Katsumi Hikido and Isao (Ace) Handa, from the valley served in the all-Japanese American 100/442nd Regimental Combat Team. Hikido was gravely injured and spent several years in hospitals after the war. Handa, one of the youngest in the 442nd, carried the regimental flag after the war when President Harry Truman presented them with a Presidential Unit Citation on July 15, 1946. Called the “Purple Heart Batallion,” Japanese American casualties were 28.5%, compared to total American casualties of 5.8%. Despite the injustice of knowing their families were in concentration camps, these young men were willing to fight for their country.

None of the Ajaris or other families returned to Danville. The Steinmetz family had guarded their belongings, but the War Relocation Authority collected most of the items which were then lost to the Ajaris. The new Museum of the San Ramon Valley exhibit relates how many of the internees made the best of their situation by creating art and poetry.

From the Gila River Haiku Group, 1943 My husband’s interned And my son is a soldier Oh, all so hard to bear; I lament Encaged behind wire.

The new exhibit at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley opens on March 12th. It is titled Art of Survival. On March 31st at the Museum, Mas Hashimoto will present “The Japanese American Experience: The Incarceration.” Mas was held along with his family first at the Salinas Rodeo Grounds and then at Poston Arizona.”

Visit www.museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750 for more information.

Page 16 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

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Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 17

Page 18 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

Clip Notes

By Jody Morgan

Focusing on the pressures of daily living causes most folks to suffer from bouts of “Plant Blindness.” James Wandersee and Elizabeth Schussler, both botanists and educators, introduced the term in 1998 to emphasize the critical role plants play in supporting life on earth.

Their broad definition includes “the inability to see or notice the plants in one’s own environment, leading to the inability to recognize the importance of plants in the biosphere and in human affairs.” The term also applies to the general populace’s failure to notice any horticultural specimen not currently putting on an eye-catching display of flowers or fruit.

Taking time to appreciate the subtler aesthetic qualities and sophisticated adaptations of plants is a sure cure for this type of visual impairment. A leisurely stroll through Markham Nature Park and Arboretum affords an easy means of connecting with remarkably diverse plants. The relatively flat Tree Walk highlights 45 species from around the globe including those described below.

Ancestors of the evergreen colloquially called Catalina Ironwood or Santa Cruz Island Ironwood avoided extinction by clinging to rocky slopes on the Channel Islands off California’s coast. Thought to be the rarest type of tree in America when found by William Scrugham Lyon in 1884, the single-species genus is named Lyonothamnus floribundus for the discoverer. Fossil evidence, however, suggests several related species once populated the southwestern US. Late in the nineteenth century, a single specimen was re-introduced to the mainland by a bit of botanical piracy.

Having failed repeatedly to grow Catalina Ironwood from seed, Dr. Francesco Franceschi took a boat trip with his sons to fetch a full-grown tree. At the time, digging up an endangered species was not illegal, but the Coast Guard suspected the craft was piloted by smugglers and fired upon it until the vessel began to leak. Furiously bailing all the way back to Santa Barbara Harbor, the Franceschi crew reached port safely.

Franceschi’s granddaughter supplied the version of this adventure published by Pacific Horticulture in July 1976. Her grandfather, born Emanuel Orazio Fenzi in 1843, grew up in the family palace in Florence. An 1891 reversal of fortunes

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brought him to California, where he changed his name. Returning to Italy in 1913, he adopted the Fenzi surname again. Wherever he went, Franceschi/Fenzi added note-worthy plants to the landscape.

By 1897, Franceschi had propagated sufficient stock to list Lyonthamnus floribundus ssp. asplenifolius in his nursery catalogue. The trunk sheds gray strips of mature bark revealing colorful cinnabar bark beneath. Fragrant feathery foliage accounts for a third common name: Fern-leaved Ironwood. Pollinating insects and birds relish the huge clusters of white flowers produced in spring and summer.

Melaleuca linariifolia, a deciduous tree hailing from Australia, also has attractive exfoliating bark. A poetic description likening the look to a Georgia O’Keefe painting is posted on Garden.org in an October 2005 Regional Report.

The close-up photograph included substantiates the comparison. Parchment-like sheets of bark interleaved with spongy layers generate a remarkable gnarled texture. To the degree that plant blindness permits motorists to avoid braking unexpectedly to admire the row of specimens planted along Palo Alto’s Foothill Expressway, the condition possibly has some beneficial side effects.

Mature members of this species have an umbrella-like silhouette. An audible buzz warns of bees busying themselves in the fragrant bottlebrush blossoms.

The floral display frequently turns the entire canopy white. Common names are completely appropriate: Flaxleaf Paperbark and Snow-in-Summer. Unlike most drought tolerant plants, this species is also able to grow in boggy places.

Loquats, probably native to China, have grown in Japan for more than 1,000 years. Their broad evergreen leaves are ornamental enough to be favored for floral arrangements. Luther Burbank identified the fruit as worthy of experimentation.

Although he had an Eriobotrya japonica imported from Japan in his Santa Rosa orchard that bore large delicious fruit, he wrote: “It is quite commonly grown in California and similar climates for the decoration of parks and home grounds, but most varieties grown for the purpose bear little or no fruit.”

Mature trees are quite hardy, but because they blossom in winter the season’s fruit set can be sacrificed to temperatures below 26ºF during flowering. Not a good keeper, loquats are not commercially produced in the US in substantial quantities.

Japan, however, harvests 17,000 tons annually. The Chinese use loquat syrup for sore throats and as an ingredient in cough drops. While their common names come from the same Chinese root, loquats and kumquats are not botanically related.

MRAS continued from front page

Bay’s hot dry summers and cool wet winters. Each space is scaled to present a miniature landscape easily replicated in home gardens.

Five acres added to the property contain 26 community gardens, an education/office building, and a nursery. After Ira remarried and moved in 1983, the city kept the original house as a rental, demolishing it when deemed structurally unsound in 2001. That same year MRAS tagged and mapped 600 trees including 84 genera and 133 species. MRAS selected 45 native and exotic species to highlight on the Tree Walk, a relatively flat trail through 2.4 acres.

MRAS Past-President and current Vice-President, Fundraising, Arti Kirch has gotten involved in almost every aspect of the organization. Often volunteering more hours weekly than any paid position would demand, she is totally enthused about her commitment. “I don’t think there’s a better thing to do,” she says. “Ask anyone who has visited, and they will tell you that the Markham offers such solace – a refuge for all living things from the many challenges of our lives – that caring for it is caring for our community. It is also a place to make a stand for what sustainability looks like as we confront climate change.”

Kirch is proud of Markham’s leadership in demonstrating the bounty and beauty of plants naturally adapted to supporting Contra Costa life. “Plants are thrilling. The drama that goes on with them – their lust for life, survival and reproduction – is heightened for me by a basic fact: life as we know it – like oxygen in the atmosphere – is simply not possible without them.”

As an almost all-volunteer organization (part-time paid positions are Nursery Manager and Administration), MRAS is able to offer trail-walks and classes at remarkably affordable prices (frequently free to members) and sometimes, like the March 12th presentation, free to all. During that Saturday’s 9-1 plant sale, Diane Goldsmith will enlighten attendees from 10-11:30AM on “Adding Succulents to an Existing Garden.“ Diane has gardened in Orinda for 30 years and is a member of the Association of Professional Landscape Designers, a Qualified Water Efficiency Landscaper, and also a Markham member. She will use selections from the Markham Nursery to illustrate plants that work well with succulents.

MRAS Board member Stan Stansbury finds his niche volunteering in the Markham Nursery.

Long before joining the MRAS Board, Patrice Hanlon brought Kids & Creeks groups to the site. Her Markham projects combine her passion for teaching and expertise as long-time Heather Farm Garden Director. “Galindo Creek is a wonderful resource for teaching about wildlife since it is accessible and still natural. It makes you forget you are in an urban area. Exploration of creek critters and the plants living there is an activity that everyone seems to enjoy. Even if they don’t get their feet wet, they love observing what we find.”

Hanlon enjoys engaging folks of all ages in investigating the intricate details of flora and fauna. “It’s all about slowing down. It works with all types of groups. Taking a hand lens to look at the shape of a bud or spores on the underside of a fern surprises and delights adults as well as children.”

Hanlon welcomes individuals from RES SUCCESS (a program serving adults with developmental disabilities and Autism spectrum disorders) to

See MRAS continued on page 30

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Life in the Alamo Garden

Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 19

Design and Budget

By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect #4059

If you browse through my website or Houzz portfolio, you will see projects that are quite distinctively different. People have commented on how different each garden is. I find it intriguing that many questions I am asked are about Design and Budget, so it inspired me to write about it. I want to dispel the myth that good creative design is expensive!

First, expensive is relative to each family’s budget. Every project and client is different. Therefore, everybody’s design goals and budget are different. Budgets are purely client driven by their wants and scope of the project. Everyone has a list of what they want and desire. Some clients have BIG want lists and are willing to “invest” in the budget to HAVE what they want, while others only want some simple advice to do the work themselves. I work with my clientele hand-in-hand with Design and Budget. I am well aware that while design options are limitless, most budgets are not. Good creative design need not be expensive; good creative design needs to be executed within the budget parameters. I require my clients to make tough decisions about their wants and budget so as to meet their expectations. The last thing I want is to create a beautiful garden on paper that isn’t within reach financially; I am committed to having my clients living in them!

When a client interviews our firm to do their project, they basically want to know two things: “How much are your fees going to be,” and “How much is my project going to cost?” To answer the first question, which is easier to answer, my fee for every project; whether or not it is a landscape renovation, small project or a big one, is based on the scope of services I provide. I love working on all aspects of a garden.

We have three basic services: consulting, design, and construction assistance. My landscape design team has a two hour minimum for consulting on items like garden spruce ups, drought renovations, flower pots, and annual color borders, etc. Our design services include garden make-overs, conceptual master plans, construction documents, and planting plans. Construction assistance includes helping you with contractor selection, bids, on-site decisions, and project observation.

In response to the second question, project costs are driven by a client’s wants.

People know what they want, but often times they don’t know what it costs. In general, client’s wants exceed what they think it’s going to cost! The way I work gives you choice over what you invest. I am interested in identifying how much you are willing to “invest” into your home and what’s appropriate to the home and your family budget. Before I design anything I evaluate your wants and desires, and I weigh those items against your budget. Once these parameters are understood, I begin the design, and at every step of the process I provide a lineitem cost analysis so choices and decisions can be made regarding the design and budget concurrently.

I love what I do! With more than 35 years in the garden, my clients’ and my own, I understand the enjoyment we receive from our gardens, whether small or large. Not only am I a licensed landscape architect, but I am also a passionate gardener! I am dedicated to designing garden environments that produce the feelings you wish to have when you are in them: inspiration, rejuvenation, relaxation, playful, peaceful…

Good creative design doesn’t have to be expensive; it has to be good creative design within your budget!

A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: Over the years I have observed that good design can save you money in the long run by doing it right the first time!

Gardening Quote of the month: How much the making of a garden, no

matter how small, adds to the joy of living, only those who practice the arts and the science can know. ~ E. H. Wilson If you would like me to write on any particular subject, email your ideas to jmontgomery@jm-la.com or for design ideas visit www.jm-la.com or www. houzz.com/pro/jmla/john-montgomery-landscape-architects.

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Page 20 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

Spring Pruning

By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb

Once again, it’s that time of year when the landscape grows lush, beautiful... and out of control. At Brende & Lamb, we prune to balance the practical with the aesthetic. When our clients ask us to restore their views, bring more light into their gardens, and reduce fire hazards, we do our best to keep their screening intact and to protect their privacy. At the same time, we work hard to enhance the natural beauty of their trees. Balancing your tree care needs are skills we’ve developed over decades of caring for trees.

Aesthetic Pruning

Each plant has a natural growth pattern. Aesthetic pruning accentuates the shape given the plant by nature, and good pruning creates a light and open feeling. A well pruned plant enhances the observer’s experience by accentuating the interplay of light and shadow, open spaces and denser spaces, and the sculptural elements revealed in a tree’s trunk and branch.

The first step in aesthetic pruning is to see the flow of the tree. We begin by looking at the base of the trunk, and then we let our eyes follow the trunk upward into the branches and out to the branch tips. We notice how the flow of the branches determines the tree’s form. The form may be weeping, as with Willows and Chinese Elms. Perhaps, as with Monterey Cypress, the branches form at acute angles to the trunk, giving the tree an upswept look.

Or the branches may bend and twist, forming complex arcs, as does the Coast Live Oak. Within these patterns, each tree has its own unique form and flow.

Pruning and Size Reduction

It is important to prune in a manner that does not harm the health of the tree. When thinning a pine, for example, it is important not to strip the major branches of their smaller branches, a practice called “lion-tailing” which leaves a branch denuded except for foliage at the end. Lion-tailing increases the chance of branch failure by concentrating the weight at the branch tips.

A healthier tree, and more subtly beautiful look, is achieved by thinning to highlight the spaces or “layers” in a tree’s natural patterns. Removing diseased wood, and removing or reducing crossing branches that interrupt the natural flow, lets in more light and air, encouraging interior growth and overall health. Careful pruning can increase desired screening over time by encouraging interior growth.

Aesthetic View Work

In view work, the beauty of the view and the beauty of the tree often seem to be in conflict. Some tree-workers will sacrifice the tree for the view by “topping” the tree. Topping is almost always a bad idea. “Topping” creates a dense re-growth in “water-sprouts” that is unsightly. But more than the tree’s beauty is at stake here. Topping wounds the tree and promotes disease, including heart rot, and can make the tree dangerous.

The water-sprouts on a topped tree are not deeply anchored in the trunk and are subject to failure in high winds. Add in the fact that these sprouts may be anchored onto a rotting trunk, and you have a safety problem that gets worse over time. Responsible arborists do not top trees. Removing a tree, perhaps replacing it with a smaller variety that can be kept out of the view, is usually preferable to beheading it.

Looking at tree and view as two elements that complement each other can often solve view problems. Sometimes, lightly bringing the tree back without cutting into major branches can prevent further encroachment on the view.

To open even more of the view, we create windows by selectively removing branches not essential for the tree’s natural form. We can enlarge these windows by removing branchlets that rise or drop into the view. Thinning above and below the window creates a feeling of openness, rather than a gaping hole. The image formed by Mt. Diablo framed by the trembling leafs of a well-windowed tree proves that nature and civilization can complement each other.

If your trees need a little TLC, please call 510-486-TREE (8733) or email us at bl@brendelamb.com for a free estimate. Additionally, go to our website www. brendelamb.com to see before and after pictures, client testimonials, and work in your neighborhood.

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Decoding Your Pool Water Chemistry

Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 21

By Mike Hennigan, Pure Pool Solutions

When I explained to Michele, my office manager (wife), that I was going to write about pool chemicals she threw her head back, closed her eyes, and made snoring sounds. I get it, but for anyone that owns a pool and/or cares for a pool, a basic knowledge of water chemistry is important. By the end of this column you will have a good working knowledge of water chemistry.

I frequently encounter pools that have premature plaster deterioration and staining. This is the result of poor chemical balance. It is often the result of too much or too little calcium in the water. Too little calcium hardness and the water becomes corrosive, meaning that the water will pull calcium out of the plaster to create a balance. Too much calcium hardness and the water is scale forming. The acceptable range for calcium hardness is 250ppm to 500ppm. Hardness can be raised by adding calcium chloride, but lowering it requires draining water and replacing it with water of lower hardness.

The most commonly known and misunderstood chemical is chlorine. Many pool owners believe that chlorine is the answer to all of their pool water woes. While proper chlorination is one of the most important factors in pool maintenance, it is also the most misunderstood. Before we get into the science of chlorine, this might be a good time to stand up, take a few deep breaths of fresh air, and pour another cup of coffee.

We add chlorine to pool water for three reasons: for disinfection, for oxidation, and to create a residual of chlorine. The primary purpose of disinfection is to kill pathogenic (disease causing) organisms such as algae, mold, mildew, and spores. The secondary purpose is oxidation of swimmer waste such as sweat, urine, saliva, mucus, and other bodily fluids. In addition, we need to oxidize or destroy all the man-made and natural creams, suntan lotions, soap, oils, deodorants, makeup, etc. And finally we want to supply a lasting residual to the water to protect against further or future contamination.

There are several types of chlorine residuals that can be measured in pool water -- combined chlorine and free chlorine. Free chlorine is the most important. All water has some chlorine or sanitizer demand that must be met first, before a residual can be established. When chlorine is added to water, it will first react with common inorganic compounds present in most water sources. No disinfection occurs at this stage. Once the initial chlorine demand has been met, further chlorine addition will start to build up the chlorine residual that will accomplish disinfection. Free available chlorine residual is the disinfection safety margin and the most effective disinfection form of chlorine.

So what does that mean to you as a pool owner? Test for free available chlorine. If you have a residual of 1ppm – 3ppm, then you just need to maintain it. If you have no residual, then you will need to super chlorinate. Remember, no disinfection occurs until the initial chlorine demand is met.

Chlorine is unstable and will rapidly degrade if not protected by cyanuric acid, often referred to as conditioner. The stability of chlorine is greatly affected by sunlight, water temperature, pH, and the presence of heavy metals. The recommended range of cyanuric acid is 30ppm-50ppm, not to exceed 100ppm. When these parameters are exceeded the efficacy of chlorine is greatly diminished. In the range of 100ppm – 200ppm, free chlorine would need to be in the 8ppm – 15ppm range to be effective!

Oftentimes the conditioner levels are above the 200ppm level when pool owners use tablets as their long-term primary source of chlorination. The tablets contain chlorine and conditioner. The chlorine will degrade, but the conditioner remains and builds up over time. The only way to reduce cyanuric acid in the water is to drain a significant amount of water out of the pool and replace it with fresh water or the addition of a product called Bio-Active.

The purpose of this column is to provide the information necessary for a homeowner to properly care for and maintain their pool. But chemicals alone will not produce safe, clear, and pleasing water. The water must be effectively filtered and circulated every 24 hours.

Pool care is not difficult, but it does require a basic knowledge of water chemistry and the willingness to spend time on general maintenance on a weekly basis.

If you have questions or would like help with any of your poolcare needs please call me at 925-820-8950 or visit our website at www.pure-pool-solutions.com. Advertorial

Stop by our new office in the Alamo Courtyard 3195 Danville Blvd #4, Alamo

Bocce continued from front page

In June 2013, County staff presented the current concept to the Alamo MAC where it was enthusiastically received.

The MAC then recommended to Supervisor Andersen and the County Board of Supervisors that they approve the bocce ball project, using grant money from East Bay Regional Parks Measure WW. Support of the project was unanimous by the Board of Supervisors.

Today, the project has gone out to bid with construction expected to start this April. We are looking forward to joining our Alamo friends and neighbors for some great games of bocce this fall, when the courts are completed.

The public is welcome to attend the monthly MAC meetings. They are held the 1st Tuesday of each month at 6PM at the Alamo Women’s Club located at 1401 Danville Blvd.

Gatherings continued from front page

they started collecting and fulfilling wish lists for schools in need.

Each list, since it’s inception, has been 100% filled by their generous community and delivered by volunteers.

Grateful Gatherings co-founder (and Monte Vista High School graduate) Chris Flitter said, “We are always amazed by the immediate response and generosity of our community. People are looking for ways to volunteer with their families. It’s a gift to be able to see the direct impact your donation can provide to a neighbor in-need. When a volunteer personally delivers their own family’s dining table to a new family, it’s a tearful moment and impactful experience for both.”

Co-Founder Donna Somerville said, “Collecting for schools was such a natural fit for us. There is so much need in these inner cities for extra support. One local school contacted us for some jackets and uniforms for kindergarten children. We asked our amazing donors, and in one day we had personalized bags and sizes for each of the children in need. We are connecting people to provide support to those in need.”

To donate gently used books for Allendale school, please contact Jacque Preble at woofceo@yahoo.com or sign up at www.grateful-gatherings.org.

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Page 22 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

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By Roger Smith Alamo Farmer’s Market

Spring is in the air, and our Alamo Farmer’s Market is open on Sundays! There is easy access and parking and an entrance from the Iron Horse Trail for bicyclists and hikers. The Alamo Farmer’s Market features fresh vegetables (including fresh asparagus this month) along with fresh citrus and strawberries, honey, smoked salmon/trout, rotisserie chicken, olive oil, hummus, granola, almonds, jams/jellies, and fresh bakery goods making the Alamo Farmer’s Market a great experience for shoppers. There is also live music and ample free parking!

Bill Harlow, General Manager for All Bay Farmer’s Markets, has been working diligently to enable the Alamo Farmer’s Market to be open year-round. Visit the Market, and make it part of your Sunday. The Alamo Farmer’s Market is open 9AM-2PM. We hope to see you at there!

Is Your Auto or Home a Target for Crimes of Opportunity?

A growing number of Alamo residents have had the misfortune of experiencing theft of items from their auto, or burglary from their garage or home. In a few cases there has even been the removal of what were thought to be secure wall safes.

Available evidence indicates that these thieves appear to be from out-of-Alamo areas, may act as a single operator but more likely have one or two accomplices that act as a look-out and/or driver, and are very well prepared to break-in and escape quickly, leaving their vehicles with engines running while committing a crime.

Anyone can become a target for “crimes of opportunity” by being unaware of their circumstances and failing to take precautions. Simply put, do not allow yourself, family, auto, or home to become victims of criminals that can be traveling our roadways, streets, and shopping centers.

Here is a detailed list of DO’s for you to save and refer to.

DO - For your auto 1) Install and maintain auto security systems on your vehicles.

2) Secure your valuables in a safe place where they will not be seen. Remove or cover from view laptops, “smart” devices, cell phones, backpacks, purses, wal-

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lets, checkbooks, and any other items of value to avoid observation by strangers.

3) Always lock auto doors and roll up windows.

DO - For your home 1) Install and maintain outdoor security lighting 2) Install and maintain an indoor security system, and post signs/window stickers 3) Install and maintain security cameras at points of access. It is best to make sure that cameras have adequate lens definition for facial and license plate recognition. Be sure hard drive devices are adequately hidden or on-line and off-site at another secure location for evidence purposes following a crime.

4) To view visitors at your door, use a Ring (www.Ring.com) cloud-based HD camera/door-bell unit 5) Lock doors and windows 6) Consider a personal early warning and guard system such as a family dog DO - when traveling 1) Alert the Alamo Sheriff’s Substation office and complete their Vacation House Check form to verify status of lights, vehicles, alarm, dog(s), pool, gardener, and any maintenance services.

2) Alert the Alamo Post Office to place a Vacation Hold on mail delivery.

3) Alert a neighbor to remove any package or newspaper deliveries from the property on a daily basis.

Remember: Report suspicious persons/activities to Sheriff’s Dispatch by calling (925) 646-2441. For other information to keep your property safe call (925) 837-2902. For all emergencies call 911.

Public Safety Committee

AIA is interested in attracting Alamo residents with suitable career experience in “First Responder” categories to volunteer time on our Public Safety Committee.

Please contact AIA at President@AlamoCA.org.

AIA’s Membership

Alamo is a special community that all of our residents can be justifiably proud to call home. Now in its 61st year, AIA, a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization, has the longest history of serving our community and helping shape it into “Alamo - the place where we love to live”! Since 1955,Alamo residents have been joining theAIAand working in support of AIA’s mission statement, which is to “preserve the semi-rural character of Alamo” Please visit www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to Alamo residents, membership forms, and more. Don’t be left out, now is the time to renew or become a new member of AIA!

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

Technology Matters

Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 23

By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO

Your privacy is very important. If you’re a regular reader of this column, you are aware of how little of your pubic-data privacy still exists, in particular because of the arrival of so many online databases. There are still things that are not publicly available, however, and if you wish to keep them to yourself, read on.

In my experience there are three primary methods by which your personal data gets exposed. The first is when your computer becomes infected and information is electronically gleaned by the “bad guys,” such as by a keystroke logger. The second is when we voluntarily give our information away, such as when we’re tricked by a “phishing” expedition into divulging personal information, perhaps over the phone. The third is when our computing gear is stolen, such as when your laptop, tablet, or smartphone is stolen out of your bag. It’s this third scenario I’m going to focus on, because it has unfortunately become so prevalent.

Luckily, there are ways to protect against someone taking advantage of your information if they steal your device. In the financial and medical sectors, it’s now common practice to apply disk encryption to laptops and desktops containing client financial or patient medical information. You may have heard of a recent case where the San Bernardino terrorists used an iPhone’s protection capability, and the FBI was asking for Apple’s help to open the system. How that plays out is anyone’s guess, but suffice it to say, the protection certainly did its job and is impeding the FBI’s ability to get at the information they need to break open the details of the attack.

Disk encryption is a process by which the data on the hardisk is scrambled in a predetermined manner according to a specific “key” usually 128, 256 or more characters in length, which is safely held by the owner of the computer. If someone unauthorized attempts to read that hardisk information without the decryption key, the data on the disk appears scrambled, unreadable. We are told that even a certain government agency with a football-field-sized computer facility under their building in Maryland does not have enough computing power necessary to “break” a basic 256 byte encryption key. There currently isn’t enough computing power assembled in one place to break one of these keys in anything resembling a timely manner.

What we are attempting to do with encryption is to drive the cost of the theft up so high that nobody would have the resources required to get at the information. When it becomes clear there is no way to access this data within their lifetime, it becomes apparent that it would be more worthwhile for the criminal to find another way to steal the data. In some cases, such as the protected iPhone I mentioned above, there are also built-in mechanisms to fry the device if someone tries to get into it too many times. When that happens, the whole device is scrambled and wiped forever, and the data is lost. In cases like that, you wouldn’t even start trying to decrypt the device because you only get 10 chances before it goes “poof.”

If you travel with a smartphone, tablet, or a laptop, I would definitely take steps to protect or encrypt it. As a company owner, I would encrypt every single mobile computer and every computer that contained sensitive compliance-related information. Encryption is a great way to ensure business-to-business confidentiality agreements are enforceable and to be able to prove your information is being kept safe. There are right ways and wrong ways to do this, so it’s important to have a very good implementation plan before diving into this project. As I mentioned above, if you accidentally lock yourself out of a system, you will not get back in, so an implementation using the right products and methods is crucial. Also, not all encryption systems are created equal, so its best to evaluate which type of system would be best suited for your environment.

The most prevalent complaint regarding encryption is that because it involves so much CPU and disk overhead, it can slow down your computer.

Encryption definitely works better on a newer, well-configured computer, and I would never recommend it on a computer more than a year or two old, or on one with less than an Intel i5 processor.

These are some of the things you should consider before installing encryption. Talk to a professional before you take the plunge so you have a great experience. You may always reach us at info@theportablecio.com, or 925-552-7953. Advertorial

To place an ad, share a story, or for more information about our papers, call 925.405.6397 or visit www.yourmonthlypaper.com

Page 24 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

Working with a Financial Advisor Six Steps to Help You Get the Most Out of the Relationship Presented by Peter Waldron

In conjunction with Lincoln Financial Advisors or Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor.

Would you trust your medical diagnosis to a casual acquaintance? Do you cut your own hair or dry clean your own clothes? For some services, it makes more sense to pay a professional who has the expertise to deliver the appropriate results. A professional financial advisor can help you build a sound estate plan, designed to help you toward your long-term financial planning goals. These six steps can help you locate and get the most out of this important relationship.

1. Choosing Your Financial Advisor - One of the best ways to find a financial advisor is through a referral of a friend or relative. Your accountant or lawyer may also be able to provide you with a referral. Since they come with a recommendation from someone you trust, referrals can help you feel more confident about your choice of a financial advisor. You can also find a financial advisor by attending an investment seminar or reading the business section of your local newspaper.

2. Set Up a Consultation - Your first meeting is an opportunity to become acquainted with the advisor and find out if you feel comfortable working together. You should make sure a prospective advisor is a good match for your financial outlook and personality. Ask the advisor about the types of clients he or she is currently working with, and try to evaluate if your financial objectives are well matched to their areas of expertise. Follow up with questions about education, experience, and qualifications. Before selecting an advisor, you should feel confident that a prospective advisor can accurately explain the financial arena and the benefits of different financial planning tools.

3. Discuss Your Goals and Obligations - In order to help you clarify your financial goals, your financial advisor will need detailed information about you and your financial situation, philosophy, and risk tolerance. Be candid about your income, debts, future obligations, current assets, and anything else that may impact your financial situation.

4. Ask Plenty of Questions - The more you know about financial planning, the more control you have over your financial future. Use your financial advi-

Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s TeleCare Connects with the Homebound

Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, have been making daily reassurance calls, Monday through Friday, to those in our community who are homebound. As the chapter’s longest standing philanthropic program, TeleCare empowers the clients, no matter what their ages, to remain in their homes. What ensures this is a daily confidential journal kept for each client that member volunteers consult prior to the phone calls then update accordingly. Last year alone, member volunteers devoted 765 hours to connecting with homebound clients.

Unfortunately, many clients are socially isolated and don’t have anyone to check on them daily. Statistics indicate that loneliness can cause a 20% decline in health, a number that increases for seniors, the elderly and the homebound.

TeleCare not only offsets that statistic, it ultimately serves as a safety net for clients and their families especially if volunteer callers are unable to reach the client.

If you live alone or know someone who does, a daily phone call would be a great way to stay connected with life and make new friends. Other TeleCare activities include attending an annual holiday party to meet fellow clients and member volunteers face to face, as well as receiving greeting cards from the Assisteens®, an auxiliary where kids learn to participate in a community service at a young age. So make that call to get you or someone you know connected.

For more information about TeleCare, please phone 925-934-0901. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s other philanthropic programs, funded by its thrift shop in Lafayette, and its recently awarded GuideStar Exchange gold participation level status, please visit diablovalley.assistanceleague.org.

To advertise call 925.405.6397

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sor as a resource. Financial advisors have access to current information that can help you better understand their recommendations and the performance of your plan. And if you don’t understand something, make sure to ask.

5. Meet or Speak Regularly -Your financial advisor has the expertise and knowledge about financial planning, but won’t be able to fully understand the details of your financial situation unless you share them. In order to keep your estate plan moving in the right direction, your advisor needs up-to-date information on life changes that may have financial implications, including: • Marriage or divorce • The birth or adoption of a child • The purchase of a home • A change in your work status, or that of your spouse • Additional current financial responsibilities, such as college payments or care for aging relatives • An inheritance or other financial windfall 6. Listen - Professional advisors can draw from years of experience and help you maintain a long-term perspective on your investment plan through good markets and bad. You’ll get more out of your relationship if you are open-minded about your advisor’s recommendations. While you may not agree with every idea your advisor presents, being a good listener can help increase your investment knowledge.

Following these six steps can help you locate and have a successful relationship with a financial advisor.

Please contact Peter Waldron to schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation, (925) 659-0383 or peter.waldron@lfg.com.

Peter T. Waldron is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offer investment advisory service through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Spectrum Wealth Partners, 3000 Executive Parkway, Ste 400, San Ramon, CA 94583. Insurance offered through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc. and other fine companies. This information should not be construed as legal or tax advice. You may want to consult a tax advisor regarding this information as it relates to your personal circumstance. The content of this material was provided to you by Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp. for its representatives and their clients. California Insurance License #0E47827; CRN-895260-040314 Advertorial

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Alamo Police Statistics

Sheriff David Livingston reported 38 crimes in Alamo during the month of January which included battery, burglary, court order violation, forgery, fraud, grand theft, mentally ill hospitalization, malicious telephone calls, outside assist, patrol request, petty theft, lost property, robbery, service to citizen, identity theft, vandalism, and warrant arrest, and violation of probation.

Reported Incidents

• South Ave ~ Residential Burglary: A home was burglarized.

Several contractors have been living at the residence while they have been working on a neighbor’s home. Items such as jewelry and electronics were stolen from the home. There were no signs of forced entry or any other forms of foul play. The scene was processed for evidence. This is an ongoing investigation • Danville Blvd ~ Armed Robbery: Two suspects robbed the Shell gas station at gun point and stole approximately $4.50 worth of merchandise. Shortly afterwards, the suspects were apprehended with the gun in question and arrested. Subjects were unable to flee the area because their vehicle had broken down on the side of the road.

No other suspects are currently outstanding.

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

Guarding Against Will and Trust Contests

Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 25

By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.

In the course of drafting a Will, Will amendment (Codicil), Revocable Living Trust, or a Trust amendment (collectively referred to as “estate planning documents,”) some clients ask about the best way to prevent someone from challenging the applicable documents in the future. This is a fair question but not necessarily a simple one to answer.

Generally, there is no legal inheritance assumption or expectation. If someone is not designated Gopher/Mole Removal as a beneficiary under an estate planning document, she will typically only prevail in a Will or Trust No Poison contest if compelling evidence proves that the decedent nevertheless intended her to be a beneficiary.

An exception applies for a spouse or child who has been “omitted” or “pretermitted.” This law 925-765-4209 gives relief to a spouse or child when a person (hereafter referred to as a “testator”): a) establishes a Will or Trust; b) later marries and/or has a child; and c) dies without amending her documents to provide for the spouse or child.

Essentially, the law presumes that the spouse or child was inadvertently omitted by the testator. The scope of this law and associated planning is beyond the scope of this article; however, careful drafting of estate planning documents - before and after a testator marries (or remarries) or has children (or additional children) - is critical to prevent unintended consequences.

Aside from the above exception, anyone can generally file a contest of a Will or a Trust on any number of grounds. Common grounds are: lack of capacity, undue influence, forgery, lack of due execution, duress, fraud, revocation, or that a beneficiary is a “disqualified” person (a relevant statute presumptively voids gifts to certain people). Of course, a contestant may or may not have valid or strong legal grounds and thus may or may not prevail in the litigation.

What reasonable steps can a testator take to try to prevent the filing of a Will or Trust contest? First and foremost, the testator should obtain expert legal advice from an experienced trust/estates attorney. The attorney should make a threshold determination about: whether the testator has legal “capacity” - basically the ability to understand who her close relatives are, what her assets consist of, and to whom she wishes to receive those assets upon her death. The attorney should also assess whether there are signs that the testator is being unduly influenced by anyone about the terms of the Will or Trust being created or amended.

Next, a “no contest” provision - commonly included in estate planning documents - should be considered. The objective of such a clause is to help prevent a Will or Trust contest when a contestant has no probable cause to support the filing of the lawsuit. If included, such a clause should be comprehensive, clearly drafted and consistent with current applicable law (which changed materially in 2010). As the examples below suggest, a testator needs sound legal advice about a prospective “no contest” provision and related estate planning document terms.

Under a properly drafted “no contest” clause, if any beneficiary files a contest or challenges the validity of applicable estate planning documents and is found by a judge to have done so without probable cause (i.e. grounds), then the contestant loses the right to receive whatever beneficial interest she would otherwise have received under the documents.

Suppose that a testator has an estate of $2 million and she wants to execute estate planning documents that: a) completely disinherit her son, and b) contain a “no contest” clause. While this is fine conceptually, an important practical problem exists. Regardless of how weak or non-existent the son’s grounds may be to contest his mother’s estate planning documents, the clause doesn’t provide a useful “stick” if he still chooses to do so. If the son files and loses the Will or Trust contest litigation, he hasn’t lost or risked anything (except attorneys’ fees) - he would have received nothing under the documents anyway.

Alternatively, if her documents include a relatively modest cash gift (say, $50,000 or $100,000) to her son, then the “stick” may be effective in pre-empting a potential Will or Trust contest by him. In that event, if he files a contest without probable cause and loses, he would forfeit the $50,000 or $100,000 that he would have otherwise received.

I offer a complimentary Estate Planning Primer and/or a free, introductory meeting.

Mr. Silverman is an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group specializing in estate planning, trust administration and probate, real estate, and business taxes. They are located at 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 125, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com.

This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and is not intended nor should it be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain and rely upon specific advice only from their own qualified professional advisors. This communication is not intended or written to be used, for the purpose of: i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code; or ii) promoting, marketing, or recommending to another party any matters addressed herein.

Advertorial

Pacific Urology Physicians Named America’s Top Doctors

Pacific Urology is pleased to announce that Castle Connolly has published its newest edition of America’s Top Doctors and has selected Dr. Judson Brandeis and Dr. Parminder Sethi for this exclusive honor. The San Francisco Magazine listed both physicians in their ‘Top Doctors of the Bay Area’ January 2016 edition.

This award is given to physicians who are nominated by their peers and meet Castle Connolly’s rigorous criteria including board certification, medical education, training, hospital appointments, disciplinary histories, and much more. Only the top 1% of physicians in their specialty are included in America’s Top Doctors.

Dr. Brandeis attended medical school at Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, performed transplantation research at Harvard Medical Center, and completed his Urology residency at UCLA. He has served as the Chief of Urology at John Muir Medical Center in Walnut Creek for the past six years and Chief of Urology for the Hill Physicians Medical Group for the past five years. Recently he introduced MRI fusion guided 3D prostate biopsies to the East Bay. Dr. Brandeis has an expertise in prostate cancer

diagnosis and treatment, as well as the treatment of benign prostate enlargement. He is an expert at kidney stone treatment, female urology, and reconstructive surgery and has performed over 2,000 vasectomies.

Dr. Sethi is a fellow of the Royal College of Surgeons and completed his Urology residency at Ohio State University and trained at the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics. Dr. Sethi is one of a few urologists who specializes in the use of advanced technology to treat incontinence and overactive bladder and was instrumental in developing Pacific Urology’s Continence Center. His special interests include treatment for incontinence, erectile dysfunction and enlarged prostate, as well as bladder reconstructive surgery and minimally invasive kidney stone surgeries.

Dr. Brandeis and Dr. Sethi are physicians with Pacific Urology, the surgical division of Diablo Valley Oncology and Hematology Medical Group. Together these groups have developed the first Prostate Cancer Center of Excellence in the East Bay. Their team of highly experienced prostate cancer specialists, including daVinci trainedrobotic surgeons, provide patients with a level of care equal to top-tier academic centers. For more information please call (925) 937-7740 Advertorial or visit www.PacificUrology.com.

Page 26 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

Robotic Surgery Opens New Frontiers for Surgeons and their Patients

By Eugenia Kang, M.D., West Coast Surgical Associates

Colon Cancer Awareness Month arrives in March, and it reminds me of a recent interaction I had with a patient whose colon polyp was suspicious for cancer – and he needed an operation to remove it. He wanted to know why I wanted to take his colon out using the robot to help me perform the operation. It’s a question I answer fairly frequently, since there are many ways to remove a colon polyp or cancer -- so why do I prefer to operate with a robot?

A major paradigm shift in surgery came at the end of last century with the advent of laparoscopy, or minimally invasive surgery. Using small incisions, surgeons can fix things internally without open surgery (using an incision big enough to insert a surgeon’s hand), avoiding the associated pain, longer hospitalization, and slower recovery for the patient who has a bigger open incision. The minimally invasive technology has significantly advanced with better instruments and cameras. The advantages of minimally invasive surgery are well known -- less pain, easier recovery, and faster return to work.

Robotics is the next step in the world of minimally invasive surgery, and it enhances the surgeon’s view, provides better ergonomics in handling the instruments, and allows for more precision. The technology of the robotic surgery system allows for me as your surgeon to operate through just a few small incisions, operating inside the patient’s body while my surgeon hands remain on the outside. Via these small incisions, I control the instruments in all three dimensions, while the advanced 3D high definition vision system and optics improve my view for better tissue handling and control. The robot features wristed instruments that bend and rotate far greater than the human hand and let me dissect millimeter by millimeter to accomplish fine, precise, and meticulous tissue handling while I see a magnified 3D view right on the screen in front of me – all while I sit at the patient’s side. This translates into more accurate surgery, less tissue trauma during surgery, and less pain for the patient. The robotic platform can be used in specific cases to conduct your procedure via a single incision that hides in the belly button. Patients like that the surgery is minimally invasive, the problem has been fixed, and it is hard to see that they had an operation.

The robot has opened an entire new approach to surgery, taking minimally invasive procedures to a higher level of quality and accuracy. Each procedure done with surgery in the operating room has a variety of techniques and approaches which the surgeon will select based on the patient’s health, the surgical problem to be dealt with, and any medical issues that might complicate recovery. The use of the robot has allowed expansion of the surgeon’s capability on selected patients while improving the speed of recovery.

I can remove the colon polyp or cancer so the patient can get additional treatment sooner with the robot. I can also use the robot for other procedures such as removing troublesome gallbladders, treating GERD, or fixing abdominal wall hernias. I am happy that I can accomplish those tasks in the most accurate and least disruptive manner for my patient. For my patient with the colon polyp, fortunately he didn’t end up having any cancer, and after the surgery he didn’t have much pain either.

My ultimate goal is to help patients quickly get back to their lives. The most fulfilling part of my job is fixing a health problem, eliminating symptoms, and helping patients get back to their activities with the least disruption to their lives.

“Happy patient, happy surgeon.”

Dr. Kang is a board certified general surgeon with special training in robotic and minimally invasive surgery. She practices with West Coast Surgical Associates (formerly Walnut Creek Surgical Associates) with offices in Walnut Creek, Concord, and San Ramon. For more information call 925-933-0984 or view the surgical team at www.wcsurgeons.com. Advertorial

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Six Steps Toward a Healthy Body Image

By Michelle Brown

There is no such thing as perfection. Life itself is imperfect! In fact, many things that were once considered defects in our genetic makeup helped to advanced our species. Though health is truly the key to living well, many of us obsess over our external appearance. We pick ourselves apart and compare ourselves to others. Accepting who we are and working to better that person is the first step in creating a healthy body image.

The second step is to stop criticizing yourself and start giving your body gratitude. Every time you look in the mirror, find something that you love instead of something you don’t like. Focus on that beautiful smile, those amazing eyes, that beautiful skin, or those strong legs. Look past what you normally see, and speak your gratitude out loud! For example: “I am grateful for these wonderful (fill in the blank) that give me the power to (fill in the blank). This shift in perspective will make space for greater self acceptance by replacing the negative emotion with positive energy.

Exercise is a critical part of a healthy body image. Simply by moving your body, you are creating “feel good” hormones that act as antidepressants. Keep this cycle consistent, and you will be addicted to that great feeling. It doesn’t take much; a walk, hike, jog or bike in nature, or 15-20 minutes of moderate to rigorous exercise daily will do the trick. When it comes to exercise, with the exception of overtraining, the more the better.

It’s the gift that keeps on giving. Make the time for your body. It will pay off ten fold at any age!

When we eat foods high in nutrition, we feel better. Junk foods filled with sugar and processed ingredients steal nutrients from our bodies, leaving us feeling lethargic and wanting more. Commit to eating what is best for your body in the long term. When cravings for junk arise, look for an alternative food. Be prepared with healthy snacks so that go-to junk is not necessary.

Apple slices with almond butter or a delicious smoothie will give your body and mind a boost that lasts rather than a blast that leaves you crashing.

Speaking of food, what we feed our minds is a critical part of our own image. Focusing on an unrealistic (and often unreal) image of another person can be defeating. You are not just a body. You are art in motion; you are life!

You cannot be compared to someone in a magazine or a photo on instagram.

You are one of a kind, so please do not wish you were someone else. REMINDER: everyone has imperfections, and some people are really good at Photoshop, and yes, they take hours getting the right angle. Health is beauty.

It’s up to each one of us to stand for this cause to change the perception that we need to be someone else to be beautiful.

Kindness is the highest form of beauty. It is contagious! Extend kindness to yourself, to those you love, and beyond your world to those you have not even met. Kindness is underrated: it can change your entire world, so make it the priority in all you do. It is the mark of highly intelligent person to give without expectation of receiving.

Cultivate gratitude for your health. Replace that self-deprecating thought with a positive one. Show your body kindness with exercise. Fuel your body with foods that promote health. Fill your mind with images that actually improve its state! These are all acts of kindness and acts of health. There is no one like you, so take pride in your awesome originality so that together we can make health our biggest priority.

Cheers, Coach Michelle Michelle Brown is an ACE Certified Medical Exercise Specialist, ACE Certified Personal Trainer, 2nd Degree Bok Fu Black Belt Disciple, TRX Level 2 Certified Trainer, Trigger Point Rehabilitation Therapist and owner of Gumsaba Fitness. Michelle has been helping clients surpass their goals since 1998. Gumsaba offers outdoor fitness programs, personal, small group, and sport specific training. Join Gumsaba for a FREE CLASS. Visit gumsaba.com, and click get started to redeem your free class with promo code LOVEME. www.gumsaba.com.

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Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 27

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The Eye Opener

Eye Hemorrhage

By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry

Health Care in Contra Costa County Panel

The public is invited to join members of The League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley and Health Care for All - Contra Costa County in discussion about health care in Contra Costa County.

How are health care providers meeting current needs? What are some systemic changes we might consider? ACA offered much-needed improvements to the health care system. Yet problems remain: • Many residents are still uninsured • Patient costs continue to rise dramatically • Networks are narrowing • Family medical bankruptcies continue • Mental health, dental, and long term care needs aren’t sufficiently covered Hear from local health care experts and join the discussion at the Mc Hale Room, Pleasant Hill Community Center 320 Civic Drive, Pleasant Hill. The event will be held on Saturday, March 19, 3–4:30PM. Panelists are Dr. William Walker, MD, Director and Health Officer, CCC Health Services; Brenda Goldstein, MPH, Psychosocial Services Director, Lifelong Medical Care; Dr. Ariane Terlet, DDS, Chief Dental Officer, La Clinica de la Raza; and Dr. Pat Snyder, PhD, Leadership Team Member, All Care Alliance.

For more information, visit www.lwvdv.org or www.healthcareforall.org.

When patients call into the office with a concern of a lot of blood in the eye (subconjunctival hemorrhage), Group Helps People Cope with Death of Pets most are pretty concerned about what is happening to When you lose your pet, you often feel like a part of you is lost. The death of your their eye. Since this happened to me recently, I thought it beloved animal companion is one of the most difficult losses you may ever feel. This would be a good reason to write about this condition. In loss is sometimes made more painful by society’s seeming lack of support for pet grief. a very high percentage of cases, this is a completely beHospice of the East Bay and the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation nign condition; it just looks a lot worse than it actually is. is offering a support group where participants can share memories and feelings A subconjunctival hemorrhage occurs when a very small blood vessel (capiland talk to others who truly understand and care. Meetings will be held the seclary) bursts within the layers of the front part of the eye. This bleeding will usuond Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7PM at the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue ally obscure the eye, so you can’t see through to the white part of the eye, and Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. it can happen anywhere on the surface of the eye. These small bleeds generally Call Today for an For further information and/or to register, please call Bereavement Services get larger after the initial incident because the outermost layer of the eye has a Appointment! at Hospice of the East Bay (925) 887-5681. cellophane look and feel to it; this tends to push down and spread out the blood.

(925) 837-6052 Hospice theBlvd, East Bay Bereavement Services are provided free of charge to all 3176of Danville Suite 2 - Alamo, CA 94507 - amindamodrelldds.com I will tell patients that the eye will look a little worse in the initial 24-48 hours community members in need.

However, donations are greatly appreciated. before the blood starts to get reabsorbed. With a hemorrhage of this kind, the Join our family practice and your child will receive a patient should have no other symptoms besides the red eye. There should be no Children's Summer Special complete new patient visit for $99 (Valued at $294 pain, discomfort, vision loss, or discharge. Patients often do not even notice it Your child's visit will include: until they look in the mirror or are asked by someone else, “What is wrong with School is out...keep your children's smiles ▪Comprehensive Dental Exam shining like the sun! your eye?” It is at this point that a call is then made for an office visit.

▪Any Necessary Digital X-rays The most common causes of this condition are trauma to the eye, heavy lifting, cough▪Dental Cleaning ing, high blood pressure, and secondary to some medications. Sometimes there is no Bring your child in for a cleaning and exam ▪Fluoride Treatment (optional) amindamodrelldds.com 3176 Danville Blvd, Suite 2 - Alamo, CA 94507 - amindamodrelldds.com August and cause, and “it just happens.” Most of the time, a patient will go to bed fine and wake up in the month of July or with the hemorrhage. My hemorrhage either occurred after lifting some boxes at home receive a surprise summer treat! our an family pr Call Today an Joinfor Callfor Today and/or exercising (which just proves that I should probably not do those again…I am not as young as I used to be). It did not hurt or affect my vision at all; it just felt like I had complete new pati Appointment!

Appointment! something in my eye, and I didn’t realize it until I looked in the mirror. The blood started Your child's visit w School is out...keep your children's smiles to subside within a few days without any issues. Even though some hemorrhages are ▪Comprehensive De more prominent than mine, most follow the same course and go away within 1-2 weeks. shining like the sun!

3176 Danville Blvd, 2 - Alamo, CA 94507 - amindamodrelldds.com 3176Suite Danville Blvd, Suite 2and - Alamo, CA 94507 - amindamodrelldds.com Some medications including aspirin, prescription blood thinners, some OTC ▪Any Necessary Di medications such as ginkgo biloba in some people can cause the blood to thin too ▪Dentalwill much and be a reason for the hemorrhage. However, these medications are usually Bring child forfamily a cleaning andchild exam Join your our family practice and your will aCleaning Join in our practice and yourreceive child recei prescribed for a heart condition and some blood disorders and are therefore neces▪Fluoride Treatmen incomplete the month of patient July or August and new visit for $99 (Valued at (Valued $294) at $2 sary for the health of the patient. I will always instruct the patient to not change complete new patient visit for $99 their current medications, as it might lengthen the time for full recovery. receive a surprise summer treat!

Your child's visit child's will include: Your visit will include: Once the diagnosis is made, there no treatment necessary.

The blood will reabsorb smiles School isSchool out...keep your children's smiles isisout...keep your children's within 1-2 weeks depending on the size of the initial hemorrhage. As the blood breaks ▪Comprehensive Dental ExamDental Exam ▪Comprehensive shining like down on the surface of thethe eye, itsun! might to change shining likestart the sun!colors, similar to a “black and blue bruise.” If the cause of the hemorrhage was a foreign body to the eye, then I will ▪Any Necessary X-rays ▪Any Digital Necessary Digital X-rays prescribe a mild antibiotic to cover against an infection. Cool compresses will not hasten recovery, but I would avoid warm compresses as heat dilates your blood vessels, ▪Dental Cleaning ▪Dental Cleaning Bring your childarea. inI find for a cleaning and exam child in for a cleaning and exam thus bringing more Bring blood to theyour most patients just need to understand what happened, have reassurance that it is nothing to worry about, and know that it is not ▪Fluoride Treatment ▪Fluoride (optional) Treatment amindamodrelldds.com (optional) amindamodrelldds.c in theEven month ofcondition or in the month of or and contagious. though this is completely benign, it canand be confused with other issues that require treatment. You should have your eyes checked at the office to ensure that the eyes are healthy and that there is no need for treatment or referral. receive areceive surprise a surprise Call Today for an Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at (925) Appointment!

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Page 28 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

Menopause Matters

Factual information about changes in health and wellness after a woman’s final menstrual period

By Timothy Leach, MD, FACOG, CNMP

I want to share evidenced based scientific information endorsed by the North American Menopause Society-NAMS (www.menopause.org), the professional medical society devoted exclusively to menopausal health in North American women.

To understand why menopause matters … some overview of menopause definitions, demographics, and quality of life are in order. Menopause represents the permanent cessation of menses resulting from the loss of ovarian function. Menopause is a normal, physiologic event, defined as 12 months following a woman’s final menstrual period (FMP). There is no blood test that can tell you when your menopause will occur.

Menopause has different stages (pre/transition/post), to be defined in future columns) and is most often a naturally occurring event (spontaneously) such that by 52-years-old, about 50% of women have not had a period for 12 months. Menopause can also be induced through medical intervention (surgery, chemotherapy, and pelvic radiation therapy).

Accurate information about physiologic changes, management of meno-

Aspirin and Colorectal Cancer

By Jewel Johl, MD

Colorectal cancer ranks among the most common malignancies in the United States and other economically developed countries. Approximately six percent of individuals will be diagnosed with this malignancy during their lifetime.

The risk of colorectal cancer can be reduced by screening with colonoscopy. Besides screening, prevention of this cancer through use of certain diets, change in lifestyle factors, and use of medications has been an area of active research in recent years.

In the late 1980’s, aspirin use was coincidentally found to lower the risk of colorectal cancer. Since then, various clinical studies have been conducted that have shown that aspirin and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) reduce the risk of adenomas in the colon (which are precursors of colon cancer in most cases) and colorectal cancer in the range of 20-40%. Some studies have shown an even greater benefit. While most of the studies were conducted in patients at high risk of developing colorectal cancer such as those with a history of colon cancer or adenomas, other studies have also found benefit of aspirin and NSAIDS in people without any risk of colorectal cancer.

The way aspirin and NSAIDS reduce the risk of development of adenomas, polyps, and colorectal cancer has also been studied extensively. These medications have been shown to reduce formation of cancer through inhibition of certain enzymes in the cells that promote cancer growth.

While we do know the beneficial effects of aspirin and NSAIDS for reducing the risk of colorectal cancer, the question still remains in terms of optimal dose and duration of use of these medications. Some studies have shown benefit of using 81 mg of aspirin, while others used 325 mg dose of aspirin. Duration of aspirin use also varied between two years to more than five years. While the dose and duration of aspirin has varied considerably in various clinical studies, most of them have shown a consistent benefit in terms of reducing the risk of developing colon cancer.

One must also be aware of risks of taking aspirin include bleeding from the stomach and other parts of intestine and risk of kidney injury, and therefore you should always consult with your physician to see if aspirin or NSAIDs are right for you. Regular screening colonoscopies and healthy diet have proven benefits without major risks and should always be a priority.

Dr. Johl is a Medical Oncologist with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group. He sees patients in Pleasant Hill and Brentwood.

Join Dr. Johl and other medical experts at an educational event focusing on the unique issues of patients with colon cancer on March 24 at 6:30PM at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center. For more information, call (925) 677-5041.

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pause symptoms, and reducing disease risk is essential to midlife. Today most women live far beyond their FMP, which was not always the case.

Approximately 6,000 U.S. women reach menopause every day, and by 2020 there will be well over 50 million women who are no longer menstruating.

Women can expect to spend approximately a third of their lives living after their FMP. My goal is to help you live this third of your life while maintaining a high quality of life (QOL).

All women experience menopause, but each one does so in a unique way.

Some may view the end of fertility as liberation from needing to use birth control, while others may grieve for the children they never had. The level of menopausal symptoms will also have an influence on how a woman perceives her “unique” menopause. Diverse social and cultural differences can affect a woman’s experience of menopause and her view of menopause treatments, all contributing to her overall health and well being. In one study 80% of women experiencing menopause reported no decrease in quality of life (QOL); 75% of women denied experiencing any loss in their attractiveness. Most (62%) women reported positive attitudes toward menopause itself. Only about 10% of postmenopausal women participating in community-based studies reported feelings of despair, irritability, or fatigue during the menopause transition.

Fortunately, today menopause is better understood and more openly discussed then ever before. Collaboration between a woman and her healthcare professional (family practice, internal medicine, ob/gyn), characterized by mutual respect and trust, is the goal of menopausal counseling. Menopause counseling can facilitate informed decision-making and validate a woman’s confidence in her decisions and in her ability to carry them out or modify them over time. The North American Menopause Society (NAMS) is a trusted resource that can help patients around the country find a doctor who is a certified menopausal practitioner. On the NAMS website (www.menopause. org) click on the “For Women” title and then you will find a link under the Menopause FAQs to “Find a Menopause Practitioner.”

I hope that you find this monthly column scientifically factual and informative in maximizing your health and wellness for this time in your life, that is why menopause matters. Future columns will explore timing of important health screens, midlife body changes, clinical issues such as hot flashes/night sweats (which can happen during the day), and changes in vaginal and urinary health. I plan to share NAMS opinions about complimentary and alternative medicines, and non-prescription and prescription therapies for the various clinical diagnoses that can affect women in menopause.

Visit my website at www.leachobgyn.com for links to resources and our Facebook page: Timothy Leach MD for more information. My office is located at 110 Tampico, Suite 210 in Walnut Creek. Please call us at 925935-6952. Advertorial

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Laser Your Plantar Fasciitis Away!

By Dr. Kristin Moore, DC

Spring is almost here and the days have already started getting longer and longer. Now is the time to come out of hibernation, knock off the rust, break in those walking shoes, and hit the Iron Horse Trail!

After months of cold weather and staying indoors, you won’t want anything holding you back from enjoying the warmer weather. Don’t let the pain of Plantar Fasciitis hold you back from enjoying the BEST part of springtime in Alamo.

What is Plantar Fasciitis?

Plantar Fasciitis is a condition that can affect people of all ages. Typically, it is defined as heel pain that is made worse upon standing, walking, or running for prolonged periods of time. The plantar fascia helps to attach your Achilles tendon to your heel bone. If you have tight calf muscles, you will be more likely to develop plantar fasciitis. This is because your calf muscles attach to the Achilles tendon, and if the calf muscles are overly constricted, they will pull on the fascia and begin to cause irritation and pain.

Can it be prevented?

Stretching your calf muscles after walking or running is very important.

Also, using a foam roller to release tension and adhesions in the calf is really helpful in preventing the onset of Plantar Fasciitis. However, if you already have Plantar Fasciitis, foam rolling alone will not fix the problem.

How do you treat Plantar Fasciitis?

I have developed a protocol that has proven to be highly effective in treating Plantar Fasciitis. It includes the following three steps.

1. Class IV Laser Therapy: This is a treatment modality that uses the light from a laser beam to penetrate your skin and power deep into your tissue to the source of your pain. The beam stimulates an increase in blood flow along with an increased cellular ATP, which aids in cellular healing. Laser treatments are very relaxing and typically only take between 5 to 10 minutes.

Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 29

2. Active Muscle Release: Next, I work on breaking up any adhesions in the muscles or ligaments that may be contributing to the irritation in the plantar fascia. I check the calf muscles, thigh muscles, and the ligaments in the feet, knees, and hips. This portion of the treatment can be a little uncomfortable if I find sore areas. However, I base this portion of the treatment on each patient’s tolerance level; sometimes I will work deep to release restricted areas whereas other times I will be more gentle with patients that are more tender and sore.

3. Kinesiotape Support: Lastly, I use Kinesiotape to help support your muscles and ligaments. This involves using flexible tape that is placed on the skin in order to stabilize specific muscles and ligaments. Depending on your condition, I may tape your arch, heel, calf, knee, thigh, hip, or lower back. This helps to support your body and hold your treatments long after you leave my office.

Utilizing all three of these methods together has been shown to treat Plantar Fasciitis quickly and effectively!

How many treatments will I need?

It’s hard to say how many treatments are necessary in order to alleviate this condition. However, it typically takes 4 to 6 weeks to see a full recovery.

That being said, I have seen people get better in as little as 3-4 treatments, while others take longer. I will have a better idea of how long it will take for you to get better once I learn more about your specific condition. The great news is that there is hope for a pain-free life!!

Where do I learn more?

The best way to find out if this form of non-invasive treatment is truly right for your Plantar Fasciitis is to set up a complimentary, 15-minute consultation. This will give me an opportunity to ask you specific questions about your condition and help me to determine if this type of care is right for you.

For more information, please visit www.alignhealingcenter.com, call (925) 362-8283, e-mail drkristinmooredc@gmail.com, or visit our office located at 125-G Railroad Avenue in Danville to schedule your complimentary consultation today!

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Page 30 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

Your Personal Nutritionist

Consulting with Companies on In-House Meals and Snacks

By Linda Michaelis RD, MS

I see many clients that work in offices from Bishop Ranch to Silicon Valley to San Francisco. Their employers frequently offer generous lunches and snacks galore. Yes, this certainly keeps people at work and allows for bonding and the social connections necessary to create a successful business. Such a benefit, however, is offset by the fact that one of my new clients has gained 20 pounds and is prediabetic in the two years he has worked at his job.

Unfortunately, the person who orders the food at most companies is usually an administrative assistant who makes orders according to a preset budget from a local catering company or restaurant and makes their food decisions based on what they think is popular. The owners or executives of these companies are usually too busy to put time into deciding what is the most nutritious for their staff and do not realize that the choices are causing weight gain and health problems.

I frequently provide lunch presentations at many local companies. At one of my “Lunch and Learn” presentations on Food and Mood, I was discussing how food affects one’s mood, and there I was surrounded by the normal vending machines and baskets of Cokes, juices, candy, and chips. I was struck by the contrast of my audience learning about healthy food choices in their daily lives but never giving a thought about their junky food supply at work. As usual, I was honest in my talk and said if they wanted to feel most efficient on the job, the selection of snacks and drinks had to change.

At another recent engagement at a high tech firm in Oakland I saw spaghetti and meatballs for lunch with garlic bread and a Caesar salad. I call this sleepy food. It is high in fat and carbs with very little protein and fiber. Most of the people were surprised with what I said because they love their free lunches. But, how can anyone be successful at eating well if they are eating these unhealthy lunches? I told the lunch presentation attendee to ask his boss about having me come to consult with the company to change their vendor selections and cater-

MRAS continued from page 18

Markham twice a month. Tasks they enjoy encompass a full range of volunteer activities. “Propagating plants is a great learning tool for adults on the Autism spectrum; they see first hand their accomplishments when their plants grow,” Hanlon notes. “For instance, we divided succulents and repotted them for a fundraiser, and for them it was a chance to see their contribution as volunteers is important.”

Tiven Racioppo, MRAS Vice-President, Volunteers & Plant Sales, learned to propagate plants as a Tuesday morning volunteer, never imagining she would become lead volunteer coordinator for MRAS. She explains why Markham volunteers love their work. “Spending three hours in the sunshine, enjoying the camaraderie of fellow volunteers, and getting your hands in the dirt solves a lot of life’s issues.” Tiven is endlessly amazed at how tasks are accomplished. “Each volunteer brings a special gift. It’s rewarding and inspiring to see what they do, and Markham couldn’t do anything without them.”

Preparing plants and informative signage for Markham’s major Saturday plant sales is part of Tiven’s role. Danville resident Migget Weber regularly devotes hours to helping.

Many enthusiasts, including current MRAS President Judith Sherwood, discover Markham Delicious edibles like this display of lettuces and unusual plants suitable to the East Bay climate keep through the sales. Sherwood folks coming back to purchase Markham plants. notes, “I buy mostly natives

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ing menu while sticking to the company budget. My initial consultation there has grown to where now I work with numerous companies in the Bay Area.

Luckily, many of these companies I work with are located close to a Trader Joe’s which carry items included on a list I wrote of snacks for the company to have on hand at the office. In addition, I have met with their vending machine suppliers to arrange having beverages containing no sugar such as Propel, iced tea, and sparkling flavored waters.

I worked with the managers of several catering companies who were providing meals to the companies and was able to create menus that consisted of the food items available in their kitchen that still could be provided within their budget. The employees were thrilled about the change in seeing more interesting entrees such as chicken piccata with spinach and whole wheat pasta, a spring mixed salad, pork tenderloin with couscous and mixed veggies, and a spinach salad. Every meal presented is now high in protein and always accompanied by a cooked vegetable, salad, and whole wheat grain.

I consulted with another company in San Francisco, and I was able to get a listing of the favorite restaurants in the area that commonly cater business meeting lunches. I worked with the restaurant menus and each chef was very amenable to my suggestions such as serving more protein and more veggies in their entrees offered to the companies. Most restaurants indicated they would be happy to provide the menus we created as long as there were at least ten meals which were easily met. We set up a schedule that worked for the company, and the feedback has been amazing.

The lesson to be learned is please do not eat food each day that you know is not healthy and does not help with efficiency on the job. Talk to other coworkers along with those people that do the ordering, and understand that making changes in the menu can be still be cost effective. I am available to guide you through the process to help your office have better nutrition and prevent weight gain and other health problems.

Good news! Health Insurance will pay for nutritional counseling - Aetna, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Health Net, Hill Physicians, Sutter Health, and other major companies. Please refer to my website www.LindaRD.com for past articles and information about services. Feel free to call me at (925)855-0150 or email lifeweight1@yahoo.com.

Advertorial and some edibles, feeling that yards should provide food and shelter for our wildlife, or food for us.” Her Concord garden has been featured on the Bringing Back the Natives Tour, and Markham will once again be selling plants during the 2016 BBN event on May 2nd and 3rd. “I’ve always found my success rate to be excellent with Markham plants,” she adds.

Alamo resident Linda Holmes comments, “I first visited the Markham for a plant sale that featured unusual tomatoes grown from seed by local people.

Markham provided an excellent plant list with detailed descriptions of taste and appearance.” Holmes found Markham when elected President of Diablo Women’s Garden Club. “I felt that part of leading a garden club should be paying attention to and honoring the jewels in our area, so I focused on exploring local parks to share the special treats right here.”

Danville resident Nancy Jan served on the MRAS Board during the 25th anniversary year. Vicki Brown, another Danville Markham supporter has brought groups for workshops and plant sales. She recalls Chris Christensen, Board Member Emeritus, digging plants from his own yard for her when Markham stock was depleted.

Holmes relates, “When I called about adding a few guests to an already full class, Markham made room for them. It’s the kind of organization that cares about helping everyone.” Sherwood believes Markham’s commitment to promoting sustainable practice helps us all. “I feel that we can do a whole lot to make this world a better place just by what we do at home – our talks and classes are a great resource for that.”

Scout projects are much appreciated. Recently, Eagle candidate Nick Lambert orchestrated the building and installation of the International Garden entrance sign. Julian Rike earned his Eagle rank organizing the removal of invasive species from Galindo Creek.

Markham is tucked into a residential Concord neighborhood at 1202 La Vista Avenue. The park is open dawn till dusk, 365 days a year. Almost every Tuesday plants are sold from 9AM-noon. For special Saturday sale dates, class schedules and more information, visit www.markhamarboretum.org.

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Alamo Today ~ March 2016 - Page 31

A Physician First

By Dr. Barbara Persons, MD, FACS

Recently, I had a discussion with someone who was considering career choices. They confided in me and asked if they should pursue being an investment banker or a plastic surgeon.

To many, these aspirations might seem similar: two careers, each offering the hope of success and prosperity.

Shouldn’t we all pursue such dreams?

I offered the best advice I could. “I know very little about investment banking,” I said, “but from my perspective as a plastic surgeon, I believe there is another choice you must make first.”

I explained that long before mastering the field of surgery, a person must first choose to become a physician. I explained that this path means caring for people and finding joy in it.

In the field of medicine--increasingly so as the taxonomy of healthcare broadens--we are given many options. We may choose to be a dermatologist or an obstetrician. Some choose radiology, and others, like me, are drawn to surgery.

In the end, however, being a physician comes first. No matter what specialty we choose, we become, and should always remain, doctors.

Any medical student will tell you that the moment they entered training, family and friends began asking for counsel. I am sure that most of my colleagues will remember those first years of medical school: everyone asked us for advice, and we probably gave it, thinking we already knew so much.

That kind of enthusiasm shouldn’t change over the years, but unfortunately it sometimes does. So when I was asked for career advice, I found myself answering a bigger question. Is it possible to dedicate oneself to something truly loved? And does that choice include a commitment to service and compassion?

The answer is yes.

For me, going into medicine was a calling. I became a physician for two reasons.

The first was simple: a sense of duty. The second is one I hold dear: the wonder of forming relationships with people in their time of need. Some might describe it as a sacrifice; holidays, weekends, and nights are dedicated to helping patients.

But it has never felt like a sacrifice to me. Being a physician is honorable, and it offers me purpose. It gives me great pleasure, and I go home feeling good about what I do. Sometimes my job is challenging, but the most difficult moments pale in comparison to what patients feel when they are in pain or chronically ill.

In my experience, many doctors forget the idea of what it feels like to be a patient. Separating ourselves can be a way to keep an even keel, but this risks alienating the very people we are trying to help. It is tempting to believe that work is better left at the office. “Don’t take your patients home with you,” I have been told. And although it is important to maintain a good balance between my personal and professional life, I do, ultimately, take my patients home with me.

I think about patients in my car as I drive home, and I look forward to seeing them when I wake up in the morning. Medicine is part of who I am, and I don’t think of it as a job or occupation. Rather, it is something I have chosen because I believe in it. This perspective has actually helped me be a more energetic surgeon and a more complete person. It is thus that I think those of us with a stronger sense of calling are more resilient to the challenges of our profession. We enjoy what we do. It informs us, shapes us, and makes us better people.

Becoming a board certified plastic surgeon took more than a decade of training.

But along the way, I was a doctor to my patients. I find comfort in the fact that simply caring for people is something I still do on a daily basis. Over the years, I have watched our healthcare system transform and policies evolve. Many of us feel swept up in the changes; we are not sure what to predict and how it will affect us. I hope that whatever system emerges will allow doctors to follow their calling, as I have done. I hope that if we have been called to serve, we will be able to do it.

How will that happen? Who among us should choose this path? These are difficult questions. In the end, however, I have begun to recognize that even the most complex questions have a simple answer. For me, the answer is taking care of my patients and finding joy in it. I am so grateful to have found my calling, for it is one that inspires and rewards me in equal measures. I am a surgeon, but I am also a physician; both are roles I am honored to fulfill. I look forward to meeting you at my practice soon.

Dr. Barbara Persons is a Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She may be reached at 925-283-4012 or drbarb@ Advertorial personsplasticsurgery.com.

Hyperhidrosis

By Dr. Jerome Potozkin

Last month I saw Sam (not his real name), an executive at a major company. Sam is used to being in the public eye, and he takes most things in stride.

He was somewhat embarrassed to see me for his problem. He noticed that over the past three years he has had worsening of the amount he sweats almost all the time. It has caused him social embarrassment, has ruined thousands of dollar’s worth of dress shirts, and now is causing irritation of his skin. He wanted to know what he could do for this as over-the-counter antiperspirants were not doing the trick. He had a great life, but this issue was becoming a major nuisance.

Sam is suffering from what is known medically as hyperhidrosis. It has been estimated that almost 3% of the U.S. population suffer from this condition in which the body secretes too much sweat. Usually one or two body areas are impacted. The armpit is the most common area. Without treatment this can be incredibly annoying.

The good news is that there is hope. The simplest solution is a prescription strength antiperspirant. This works for many people and is relatively inexpensive. The challenge for some people is that it can sting or burn when applied, and it can also be irritating to the skin. Drionics is another option.

This electronic device, which sells for about $200 and can be ordered online, can work to suppress sweating. I have not found many people willing to stick with this treatment because it requires 30 minutes of daily treatment. Most people I see simply don’t have the time. The most popular treatment in my practice is Botox for hyperhidrosis. Botox is injected into the skin and blocks the communication between the nerve telling the sweat gland to work overtime. It works great for most people. The only inconvenience can be cost and the fact that it does require 2-3 treatments per year. It is quick and effective.

There are treatments that have the potential to permanently destroy sweat glands. Devices that use radio frequency or micro-focused high intensity ultrasound to destroy sweat glands can give lasting results. These are effective for many people. Liposuction of the armpit is another treatment that can give long lasting results and can be performed in the office with local anesthesia. In this procedure the sweat glands are targeted as opposed to fat cells. For the most severe cases, a neurosurgeon can destroy the nerve causing the problem. This is permanent but patients who undergo this have the risk of developing compensatory increased sweating in other areas.

Sam came back two weeks after his Botox treatment. He was delighted that he no longer had the social phobia he had developed and was no longer ruining his dress shirts. His sweating was dramatically reduced. He calculated that the money he saved by no longer ruining his clothes more than covered the cost of his Botox treatment. If you suffer from hyperhidrosis, call us today so that we can find a solution that works for you.

Dr. Potozkin is a board certified dermatologist who has been serving the local community since 1993. His fully accredited dermatological and laser facility is located at 600 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Suite 102 in Danville. Dr. Potozkin is a fellow member of the ASDS. He is accepting new patients. Please call (925) 838-4900 or visit Potozkin.com for more information.

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Page 32 - March 2016 ~ Alamo Today

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Danville Area Real Estate: 2016 Looking Good!

Although the early season in real estate is not a great predictor for the entire year, I thought I would look at the first two months of 2016 and see if there is anything useful to be gained by an analysis of this same time period last year. I’ve used red and green in the chart to indicate the direction of change, green for the positive and red for the negative. Days on market are red if the days increased indicating a negative move. The majority of indicators on the chart are green which is suggestive of another really good year for Danville Area Real Estate.

A significant issue in Alamo is lack of inventory of homes for sale. At this time only 24 homes (six less than last year) are active listings and this is less than 1/4 of what might be considered normal. Average price is up 21% over last year on a home that is 512 sq. ft. larger than at this time last year. Dollars paid per square foot are down 3% in the first two months of 2016 compared to 2015. An increasing number of larger homes selling in Alamo is causing a bit of decline in average dollars paid per square foot, however this is a sign of market strength, not weakness, as evidenced in the average sales price increase.

Blackhawk sales stand at 17 which is three more than during the same time last year. Like Alamo, price paid for the average home is significantly more this year than last year and it increased by 29%. The average size of the home sold is nearly 1,100 feet larger than homes sold during this time period last year. Dollars paid per square foot declined from $441 to $421. Again, this should not be considered as a negative in light of the average price of the home moving from $1,547,823 all the way up to $2,001,559.

Danville sales declined from 76 to 59 units for a decline of 32%. This decline is likely caused by very low inventory numbers. As of this writing, only 54 homes are currently for listed for sale. Contrast this number to 59 properties that have sold since the first of the year and we can see that Danville has less than two months inventory on hand. Average selling price in Danville is up 7.2 %. Unlike Alamo and Blackhawk, the average

Coming Soon!

All Home Sales Alamo, Blackhawk Danville, Diablo (Jan1-Feb 21) size of the Sold DOM List Price Sold Price Sq. Foot $ Sq. Foot homes in Alamo 2015 8 43 $ 1,445,750 $ 1,419,333 3,010 $ 506 Danville 2016 15 51 $ 1,763,199 $ 1,718,933 3,522 $ 491 14 56 $ 1,541,828 $ 1,547,823 3,526 $ 441 h a s r e - Blackhawk 2015 17 63 $ 2,345,047 $ 2,001,559 4,607 $ 421 2016 mained Danville 2015 76 32 $ 998,092 $ 992,471 2,333 $ 435 constant 2016 59 36 $ 1,079,132 $ 1,063,588 2,333 $ 484 Diablo 2015 5 120 $ 1,817,790 $ 1,706,000 3,330 $ 522 at 2,333 2016 1 162 $ 2,595,000 $ 2,480,000 4,195 $ 591 square feet and the price per square foot increased significantly, up 11%.

Diablo is interesting in that it is a very small market and only one home has sold this year compared to last year when a total of five homes sold. Given the lack of sales data for 2016 it’s not as useful to compare the two time periods. That said, the current comparison looks pretty similar to Alamo and Blackhawk except that dollars paid per square foot actually increased. Of note in Diablo is that there are two pending sales and five properties currently listed for sale. Their dollar per square foot price ranges from a low of $406 to a high of $876 with an average of $631. If the average price is obtained, this will be strongly positive for Diablo.

While the numbers presented here are mixed, both positive and negative, I don’t see anything in these early data to suggest anything other than a very good year in the Danville Area Real Estate Market. Days on market increased throughout and that may be simply explained by weather. As I have said in more than one of these articles, “It isn’t likely that we will be enjoying these incredible rates of growth forever.” Eventually supply and demand will come into balance and price appreciation will slow down. When? We can only guess.

It’s important to remember there really is no “average” home and no two homes are exactly alike. If you would like an honest no strings attached opinion of your home’s current market value and suggestions for getting it ready for market, please give me a call 925-989-6086 or send me an email joecombs@thecombsteam.com.

Orinda Single Story

D

Executive Luxury Home

D

SOL

SOL

5 bedroom, single story on nearly 2 gorgeous acres. Two family rooms, exquisite master, large bonus room, walk-in wine cellar. Worth waiting for. Call for details.

Nicely updated 3 bedroom Single Story, Views and Amazing Schools.

Priced To Sell $799,000!

Mt. Diablo views from this casually elegant & completely luxurious Braddock Logan model home. 5 bedroom, 4.5 bath. Priced to sell $1,899,000.

Danville 4 Bedroom

Coming Soon!

Alamo Single Story Ranch

D

D

SOL

Nicely updated 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath in lovely Danville neighborhood. Community pool and tennis courts. Priced to sell $899,000.

SOL West Side Alamo 4 bedroom spectacular views, great location. Worth waiting for. Call for details.

Data presented in this column is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Contra Costa and Alameda MLS service and other quoted sources.

Joe Combs, Nancy Combs, The Combs Team, J. Rockcliff and the MLS service do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. DRE #0144125.

4 bedroom, 2.5 bath home on flat half acre.

Updated and ready to go. Priced to sell $1,275,000.

J. Rockcliff Realtors 15 Railroad Ave., Danville CA. 94526