Alamo Today, April 2012

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April 2012 Easter Egg Hunt in Alamo

Serving Alamo and Diablo Feral Kevin

The Alamo Rotary Club is pleased to once again sponsor the Annual Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 7th at 10am sharp! The Hunt will be held at Livorna Park, located at the corner of Livorna Rd. and Miranda Ave. in Alamo.

All kids 12 and under are welcome.

There will be acres of eggs to hunt for, and photos with the “Bunny” will be taken. The event is FREE! Just bring your kids and cameras, and enjoy this fun time for kids and adults!

The hunt will be held rain or shine. This event goes extremely fast, so DON’T BE LATE or you may be disappointed! For more information, visit www.alamorotary.org.

Together We Give - Earth Day Presented by Alamo Women’s Club

Sunday, April 22, 1-4pm Community Donation Day Benefiting Local Charities See pages 2 and 6 for more information

Ultimate Configuration Not Yet Removed from County Roads Plan

By Grace Schmidt, Mike Gibson, and Aron DeFerrari Contra Costa County is in the process of updating its County roads plan, and the widening of the Danville Boulevard/Stone Valley Road intersection, aka the “Ultimate Configuration”, is still in it.

“Stone Valley Road/Danville Boulevard Intersection Improvements” is Project #5 on the Alamo Area of Benefit (AOB) list of projects that is part of the current County Capital Roads Improvement & Preservation Program (CRIPP)1. The currentAOB project list appears below. The County reports that the Alamo AOB fund, comprised of fees the County collects from developers who develop in Alamo, currently holds $2.1 million.

Alamo Regional Area of Benefit - Project List Schedule - Current Ordinance 98-21

In January, 2008, the County added “Stone Valley Road/Danville Boulevard Intersection Improvements” to the list of traffic mitigation projects funded with

See Configuration continued on page 14

Local Postal Customer

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA

ECRWSS

By Fran Miller

Long before sustainable food guru Michael Pollan wrote his best seller The Omnivore’s Dilemma, in which he explored the complex subject of the industrialization of our food sources, a young and quixotic Kevin Feinstein was slightly ahead of the curve. As a college student at Florida State, Feinstein privately questioned the same subjects as related to the nation’s commercial food chain. With access to a relatively new information highway – the Internet – Feinstein Googled his way through the complex issues of agribusiness and inturn, re-programmed how he felt about our food system.

Feinstein was a film major excelling in the technical aspects of his field of study. He assumed a career path in film would eventually lead him to California, but it was his transformation of consciousness, and the progressive food movement, which ultimately brought him to the state eleven years ago.

Growing up in Nashville, Tennessee, Feinstein, had become accustomed to non-organic ways of eating. “We never had fruit, Kevin Feinstein, “Feral Kevin,” displays a bounty of both edible and toxic mushrooms. His mushroom foraging and I’d never seen a fruit tree,” classes explain how to tell the difference between the two. says Feinstein. “Once in college, and with a myriad of information at my fingertips, I started to explore food-source related issues, and it literally changed my life.”

He has since made his living as “Feral Kevin,” local forager and food educator in the fields of ethno botany, organic gardening, mushrooms, nutrition, and more. As Feral Kevin, he leads edible wild plant tours and forays, and he teaches a crash course in mushroom foraging. He can also be hired for custom walks, talks, classes, tours, and birthday parties. He says that foraging has become quite popular, and while trendy at the moment, the practice is the base of cultural change in how we view food.

Feinstein cautions that there are rules to foraging, and when asked if he saw the true-story film “Into the Wild,” in which Christopher McCandless (as played by Emile Hirsch) dies after eating poisonous berries, he allows, “McCandless did not know what he was doing. He was naïve.”

Feinstein’s classes ensure that naiveté is transformed into enlightenment; he concedes that indeed, eating the wrong thing can be perilous, and he cautions against picking near parking lots and roads due to mercury in the soil. In his wild mushroom classes, he teaches a system for approaching the daunting subject. “There are so many types of mushrooms, and most of us have had zero exposure to them Volume XII - Number 4 as children, and yes, if you eat the 3000F Danville Blvd. #117, wrong one, it could be deadly.” says Alamo, CA 94507 Feinstein.

Telephone (925) 405-NEWS, 405-6397 Fax (925) 406-0547 In his new book, The Bay Area Forager, Feinstein and his co-author Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher Editor@yourmonthlypaper.com Mia Andler (Director of the Vilda Sharon Burke ~ Writer Foundation for Nature Connection), sburke@yourmonthlypaper.com make the case that foraging promotes The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do sustainability, helps fight the spread not necessarily reflect that of Alamo Today. Alamo Today

See Kevin continued on page 21

is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.

Page 2 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

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Pillar Wealth Management might be right for you IF, Hutch Ashoo, CEOo

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Chris Snyder, Principal, SR. VP

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Pillar Wealth Management, LLC. is fully owned by Mr. Hutch Ashoo and Mr. Chris Snyder, they are book authors, financial columnists and nationwide radio guests. They have been providing customized financial solutions to affluent families for a combined 47 years. Pillar’s only product is unbiased advice. Call (925) 407-0320 to schedule a FREE 20 minute telephone meeting now.

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Boulevard View

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor The few times I have watched the TV show Hoarders I have immediately felt the itch to tidy and clean. My feelings were mirrored by a 20-year-old friend of the family who recently posted on his Facebook Wall, “Sooooo just finished watching Hoarders. Yep, time to clean every square inch of my room.” I get it. That’s just how I feel.

It is time for some “Spring Cleaning,” the annual act of cleaning a home from top to bottom. Wikipedia says, “It has been suggested that the origins of spring cleaning date back to the Iranian Norouz, the Persian New Year, which falls on the first day of spring. Iranians continue the practice of “khooneh tekouni,” which literally means ‘shaking the house’ just before the new year. Everything in the house is thoroughly cleaned, from the drapes to the furniture.”

The citing continues, “During the 19th century in America, prior to the advent of the vacuum cleaner, March was often the best time for dusting because it was getting warm enough to open windows and doors (but not warm enough for insects to be a problem), and the high winds could carry the dust out of the house. For the same reason, modern rural households often use this time for cleaning projects involving the use of chemical products which generate fumes, opening up the winter darkness (although there was not as many dreary days this winter) and welcoming the warm weather.”

A couple years ago my daughter started an event called “Together We Give,” and the event fits in nicely with the Spring Cleaning theme. This one-stop, one afternoon event is a gathering of local groups and organizations looking for your useful items you no longer need. They in turn collect the items and take them directly to their organizations. Do you have clothes you no longer wear, bikes you no longer ride, instruments you no longer play, or eyeglasses or hearing aids that are not your prescription anymore? Did you buy a five pack of deodorant or a case of paper towels at Costco and now wonder, “What was I thinking? I’ll never use up that much of this product!” If so, this is the perfect opportunity to share with others in need.

As my daughter is away at college, the Alamo Women’s Club has taken over the Together We Give event. See the list of items below that the groups need and make your Spring Cleaning a personal scavenger hunt. Then, bring everything down to the Club located at 1401 Danville Blvd in Alamo on April 22nd from 1-4pm, and help out these

wonderful organizations. Please note all items must be “smoke-free.” For the full list of items, please email coordinator Pam Singh at momshouseinc@ymail.com.

• New/unused yarn (any type), knitting looms for hats/scarves, hat/scarf patterns for Knit For The Kids • Bikes/protective gear, storage bins, DVDs for young adults, educational CDs/ DVDs, gardening kits & tools, large duffle bags and backpacks, sports equipment, arts & crafts supplies, radios with CD player, board games, bath/face/hand towels, digital cameras, clock radios, MP3 Music Players for Youth Homes – Foster Care • Antiques, linens, glassware for Hospice of East Bay • Unopened hotel shampoo/conditioner/soap/razors, twin size bedding (blankets, sheets, bedspreads, pillow covers, mattress covers), towels for STAND! For Families Free of Violence • Usable “sunshine gifts” – packs of cards, hand creams, etc., clean/used sleeping bags, children books, interview and work clothes for Men/Women, and professional accessories (shoes, scarves, handbags, jewelry) for Wardrobe for Opportunity via VESTIA – Volunteer Emergency Services Team in Action • Eyeglasses and hearing aids for Lion’s Club • Cell phones for the Troops • New or gently worn dresses for 6th to 8th grade girls for Dress It Up 4 Girls • Diapers, baby clothes, baby toys, strollers, and car seats for Brighter Beginnings • School supplies, binders, nursery rhyme books, puzzles, towels, heavy push toys such as wagons, board games, sidewalk chalk, sand toys, Hot Wheels, jump ropes, boys dress up clothes, men’s ties for We Care Services for Children (ages 2-5) • Shoes for Pledge To Humanity (donated to local communities) • Canned and boxed food for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano • Books, small furniture, Ewaste recycling - Computers, monitors, printers, laptops, TVs, iPods, stereos for CARH, Inc. (Community assistance for the disabled) • Gently worn coats, hats, mittens for One Warm Coat • Gently used clothing (men, women & children), household goods, books, toilet paper, paper towels for Shepherd’s Gate • Musical instruments for Local Schools • Adult dark colored knit hats, hand and foot warmers, paper back books, CDs, DVDs for Blue Star Moms • Blankets/Quilts for Contra Costa County Sheriff - Valley Station • Volunteer participation - puppy raising, assistance with special events, and donations for Canine Companions for Independence

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Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 3

Huge Library Book Sale

Walnut Creek Garden Club

Friends of the Danville Library will hold a sale of gently used books, all for 50 cents or $1. Included will be childrens’ books, CDs, DVDs, and video tapes. The event will be held at the Danville Library located at 400 Front Street in Danville.

The sale will take place on Friday, April 27th from 9AM-10AM for Friends only, and from 10AM -5PM the public is invited. The public is also invited Saturday, April 28th from 10AM-4PM and on Sunday, April 29th from 12:05-4:45 which is bag day - all you can carry in a bag costs $5. Admission is free.

Everyone is invited to the free Walnut Creek Garden Club meeting Monday, April 9th at 9:30AM at The Gardens at Heather Farm located at 1540 Marchbanks Rd., Walnut Creek.

The program features Joleen Adams who will present “Pest Control/Growing Beautiful Roses.” Adams is the current vice president of the American Rose Society, District Director for the Northern California-Nevada-Hawaii District, Master Rosarian, Master Gardener, and Rose Horticulture Chairman for CGCI.

Museum of the San Ramon Valley

Newcomers Club

Special Presentations at the Museum

The San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club invites new and long-time residents to its monthly luncheon on April 19th at Bridges Golf Club Restaurant located at 9055 S. Gale Ridge Rd. in San Ramon. We meet from 11:30 to 2PM and the cost is $21. The speaker will be Becky Worley, correspondent to the TV show Good Morning America. Call Grace at (925) 828-8554 for reservations and information.

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• Saturday, April 7 , 10 , Gemstone carving and polishing will be featured along with a display of beautiful gems and handmade jewelry.

Dick Friesen will share his knowledge of gem collecting along with the tools and equipment that he uses in his hobby. Join us for what will surely be a polished and brilliant talk.

Museum hours are Tuesday to Friday 1pm to 4pm and Saturday 10am to 1pm. The museum admission is free to members, and there is a modest fee for non-members. Donations are always welcome. For more information, visit www.museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750. The museum is located at the corner of Railroad and Prospect Avenues in downtown Danville.

The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month at Faz Restaurant in downtown Danville. The Club’s sign-in and social time begins at 11:30AM. The meeting starts promptly at noon and ends promptly at 1PM. Our one-hour program features guest speakers and a business networking speaker.

Guests are welcome. Price is $16 for members and first time guests and $20 for returning guests.

For more information, call Karen Stepper, President, at (925) 275-2312, email coachstepper@yahoo. com, or visit www.srvexchangeclub.org.

Sand Cree Sand Crossing Cree k Cros sing k

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Page 4 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

Vets Building Grand Opening More than a year and a half of effort has yielded fruit as the Town of Danville is proud to announce the grand opening of the newly renovated/reconstructed Veterans Memorial Building.

April 28th has been selected as the opening date for the venerable building, which has been undergoing a massive renovation effort since July 2010.

The $8.1 million project has resulted in a beautiful facility which will serve the needs of area veterans, seniors, and community members.

Plans call for a special opening for the veterans on Friday, April 27th with a community-wide opening ceremony set for Saturday, April 28th.

For more information, contact Assistant to the Town Manager Nat Rojanasathira at (925) 3143328 or nrojanasathira@danville.ca.gov.

Purveyors of classic, exotic, and high-performance cars for more than 30 years.

California’s #1 Classic Car Dealer Over 200 vehicles in inventory!

Veterans of Foreign Wars Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW), Post 75, San Ramon Valley meets the third Showrooms in Pleasanton, Benicia, and Fairfield.

Wednesday of each month at the Swain House at Hap Magee Ranch Park, located at 1025 La Gonda www.SpecialtySales.com | 800.600.2262 Way in Danville. Doors open at 7PM, and the meeting begins at 7:30PM. For more information, contact Post Commander Nathan Greene at (925) 875-1747. Mail to: VFW Post 75 San Ramon Valley, P.O. Alamo Police Services District P-2, Zone B Deputy Mike Carson, Alamo Resident Deputy, activities for February 2012 Box 1092, Danville, CA 94526. Find out more about the VFW and our Deputy Carson Completed: Post on the internet at www.vfwpost75.org.

• 9 Citations • 9 Field Interview Cards • 8 Reports

Delta Nu Psi Collection for the Troops

We will be collecting supplies to give to American troops on April 6th at CVS in Alamo and on April 13th at Lunardi’s in Danville. The hours for both stores are from 11am to 2pm. Needed items include Girls Scout Cookies, toothbrushes (like the last one your dentist gave you), disposable razors, and chocolate candy. We have now shipped 22,865 pounds in 902 boxes. Thank you for your continued support.

To find out more about our organization, visit deltanupsi.org.

www.yourmonthlypaper.com HELP! One Week Host Families Needed High school students from the south of France will be coming to our area for one week, April 13th - April 20th. Host families are needed to take care of the students on the weekend and evenings. Weekdays the students will travel with their class to explore San Francisco. This is a wonderful opportunity to expose your family to another culture and language. Students have a varying command of the English language and are looking to improve their English skills. There are five boys who still need a host home! For more information, visit www.exchange-students-lecas.com or email teacher Martine Causse at martine.causse@yahoo.com.

8

Lost Dog!

$50 REWARD

If you find her and your name is drawn!

Alamo Zoe is Missing We have a new dog, but now she has become lost in this paper...

Keep your eyes out for Alamo Zoe! 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, along with your name and address, to: Lost Dog! ~ Alamo Today 3000F Danville Blvd #117 • Alamo, CA 94507

Ralph Wallace is our winner

Deputy Carson Responded To or Conducted: • 2 Alarm Calls • 3 Security Checks • 17 Patrol Requests • 1 Suspicious Vehicle • 9 Suspicious Subjects • 4 Service To Citizens • 1 Suspicious Circumstance • 1 Auto Burglary

If I Were a Thief Program Deputy Carson implements the “If I Were A Thief” program along with Alamo SAVES volunteers (Sheriff’s All Volunteer Extended Services). The program involves leaving “If I Were A Thief” informational flyers on parked cars found to contain valuables in plain sight, also notifying residents with open garage doors or other visible signs of lax security.

• 60 Streets Covered During February • 17 Flyers Distributed • 14 Vehicles in the Plaza Flagged

Reported Incidents 1. Alamo Plaza – Auto Burglary – Victim reported her vehicle window had been smashed and property stolen. The vehicle was parked in the rear area of the businesses. The victim did not report the incident until the following day. There were no known suspects or witnesses.

2. Granite Drive – Vandalism - Deputy Carson was dispatched to a possible residential burglary. It was found that a window of a door had been smashed with a rock. The home was vacant, and it did not appear that entry had been made.

3. Danville Boulevard – Illegal Entry - A Valley Station Deputy was dispatched to a reported residential burglary. The suspect had entered the home through a removable dog door which was connected to the patio sliding glass door. There were no items missing from the victim’s home. The suspect was not located, but latent fingerprints were collected.

4. Granite Drive – Petty Theft from a Vehicle – Deputy Carson responded to a call where property was stolen from an unlocked vehicle. There were no known suspects or witnesses, and no evidence was found.

The Alamo Police Services Advisory Committee advises Sheriff Livingston on the tax funds generated by County Service Area P-2, Zone B, which includes approximately 60% of Alamo. These funds are earmarked for Police Services in the district. The Advisory Committee meets the first Monday of every month at 5PM in the Alamo Chamber of Commerce office located at 120B Alamo Plaza. Interested citizens are encouraged to attend.

Deputy Mike Carson is the current Alamo Resident Deputy. His position is funded by a police tax in County Service Area P-2, Zone B.

Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 5

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Gretchen Bryce ~ 925.683.2477 ~ gretchenbryce@msn.com

Alamo. Prime Westside loc. Level lot w/room for, pool or grapes. 5th bdrm large studio style w/separate bath & entry far end from other bdrms. Modern prof. kitchen w/ Rose Granite counters. Brazilian Hardwood in entry/Kitchen. New carͲ pet, paint, windows, and doors. $1,299,000 Dale Price

925.785.9035 DalePrice@DalePrice.net

Jay Weymouth

925.915.1100 www.TeamWeymouth.com

ON SO G N MI CO

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Alamo. Alamo Oaks Lovers! 2.34 acres of seclusion and privacy. 5000 sq ft former showplace needs remodeling.

Amazing views and ambiance. Pool, separate apartment.

Restore this estate, you’ll be glad you did! $1,695,000

Tim Palumbo 925.343.3332

Alamo. COMING SOON, Wonderful 4 bedroom 2.5 bath single story home with 3 car garage in White Gate. Remodeled kitchens and baths plus gorgeous wide planked hardwood floors. Private backyard with pool & spa plus additional large totally fenced front patio your option for entertaining. Please call today for a sneak preͲ view. $1,150,000

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Page 6 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

The Alamo Women’s Club presents

Together We Give ~ Earth Day Date/Time: Where: How: Why:

Sunday, April 22, 1- 4:00pm 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo Drive through and drop off!

Community Donation Day Benefiting Local Charities ~Be an Angel of Hope~

Presented by

Monies raised support the programs of the Alamo Chamber of Commerce Foundation and local charities.

The Alamo Women’s Club Together We Give event will be collecting reusable items (from non-smoking environments please) for over 15 local organizations.

Please see the Boulevard View column on page 2 for more information. For questions and a full list of items, please email momshouseinc@ymail.com.

Alamo Women’s Club Where Women Come Together to Work Toward a Better Community for All Please join us at our upcoming events!

aird Enterprises

APRIL

For Entry Form and Info visit www.alamochamberofcommerce.com or call Chairman Keith Gilbert at 925-360-9641

New Law Extends Payroll Tax Cut The temporary reduction in the FICA tax rate that began in January 2011 as a replacement for the "Making Work Pay Credit" has been extended through December 2012. The 2% rate cut applies to wages, salaries and self-employment income of up to $110,100.

• If you're an employee, your portion of FICA wages — the part deducted from your paycheck — will remain at 4.2% for the rest of the year. There's no effect on your future social security benefits, and no need to change your withholding allowance certificate (Form W-4).

• If you're self-employed, the combined rate for your 2012 selfemployment taxes will continue to be 10.4%. In addition, you may have noticed the federal tax deduction you claim as an adjustment to income was revised on your 2011 income tax return to reflect the new self-employment tax rate. That revision applies to 2012 as well.

• If you're an employer, your portion of the FICA tax has not changed.

You'll continue to pay the 6.2% "match" on your employees' wages.

• One change to note: The recapture provision affecting high income earners that took effect in January 2012 was repealed.

Got payroll tax questions? Give us a call. We're ready to help.

Feeney McClaskey and Associates, Inc Certified Public Accountants 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 150 • Alamo, CA 94507 (925) 314-1891 • Fax (925) 309-2462 www.fmacpa.com • Email: info@fmacpa.com

4 - Mah Jongg - 10:30-12:30pm 9 -Executive Board Meeting -4pm 10 - Cards Club - 9-Noon 10 - Let’s Walk! - 4-5pm, meet @ Clubhouse (rain cancels) 11-Business Meeting-11:30am, Old/New Philanthropy vote, Member of the Year nomination taken 17 - Let’s Walk! - 4-5pm, meet @ Clubhouse (rain cancels) 18 - Mah Jongg - 10:30-12:30pm 18 - Book Club I - 1pm, Book Club II - 2pm 24 - Let’s Walk! - 4-5pm, meet @ Clubhouse (rain cancels) 25 - Program Meeting-11:30am, STAND! “Spa Day”

MAY 1 - Let’s Walk! - 4-5pm, meet @ Clubhouse 2 - Mah Jongg - 10:30-12:30pm 7 - Executive Board Meeting - 4pm 8 - Cards Club - 9-Noon 8 - Let’s Walk! - 4-5pm, meet @ Clubhouse 9 - Business Meeting - 11:30am, Member of the Year voting 12 - AAUW Garden Tour Excursion - TBD 15 - Let’s Walk! - 4-5pm, meet @ Clubhouse 16 - Mah Jongg - 10:30-12:30pm 16 - Book Club I - 1pm, Book Club II - 2pm 22 - Let’s Walk! - 4-5pm, meet @ Clubhouse 23 - Program Meeting - 11:30am - Scholarship & Philanthropy Awards, potluck luncheon 25 - Community Garage & Craft Sale set up - All Day 26 - Community Garage & Craft Sale - 9-4pm 29 - Let’s Walk! - 4-5pm, meet @ Clubhouse Want to become a member? Be our guest at one of our events to learn about our Club’s philanthropies and mingle with the members. If you’ve been thinking about joining, our luncheons are the perfect occasion to join us at the Clubhouse located at 1401 Danville Blvd in Alamo. Please respond to Nancy Dommes, Membership Chair, by calling 831-0111 or emailing ndommes@yahoo.com, and bring a friend, too!

For questions, please contact President, Nancy Combs at NancyPCombs@ TheCombsTeam.com.

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Ars Longa, Vita Brevis

By Cynthia Ruzzi Hippocrates, the ancient Greek doctor, certainly got that right! Art is long, and life is short. Art influences how we see the world, and it gives us a means to express ourselves when words cannot. Certainly the impression a piece of art makes on the viewer can outlive the ability to recall the artists’ name. Yet finding a simple drawing you stored long ago can flood you with treasured memories of the artist, if it was your child. Giving recognition to a child’s artwork can build life confidence equal to scoring the winning homerun in a champion little league game. I’m at least as proud of my trophy from a city-wide art contest in the third grade as I am of my Best Girl Athlete medal from seventh grade.

As parents and educators, we know how essential art is to teaching and encouraging our children. Since art is such a vital part of raising healthy children, shouldn’t we consider making sure the art supplies our children use to create their art are healthy for them too?

Art supplies often contain toxins and pollutants that are both harmful to a child’s health and the environment. Many art supplies contain toxic chemicals (PBTs) that can accumulate in the environment when they are made, used, or discarded. These PBTs can also accumulate in your child and cause illnesses such as headaches, breathing problems, nausea, and possibly worse.

A great way to prevent possible negative effects of art supplies is to make sure you and your school purchase only sustainable, non-toxic art supplies. Look for the Art & Creative Materials Institute (ACMI) seal of approval to make sure your art supplies are safe for the environment and your child. A guide to reading and understanding art supply labels can be found at the Children’s Health Environmental Coalition website www.cehn.org/files/Art%20supplies_2_14_11(6).pdf.

With Spring Break just around the corner, now’s a perfect time to consider some environmentally friendly ways to spruce up your family art projects.

Recycled Materials Juniors’ masterpiece will last just as long and look just as good on 100 percent post-consumer recycled paper as it would on virgin paper.

Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 7

Two fabulous concerts from the East Bay’s premier 140 voice chorus.

Songs from “Breakfast at Tiffany’s”, “West Side Story”, “The Sandpiper”, “Dirty Dancing”, “The Wizard of Oz” and much more…….

Saturday May 5: Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 8pm 10550 Albion Road, San Ramon.

Tickets: $25, adults, $17 children under 12. www.sanramon.ca.gov/parks/theater/ or 925-973-3343 Friday May 11: 8pm

Resurrection Lutheran Church, 7557 Amador Valley Boulevard, Dublin.

Tickets: $25 adults, $15 children under 12 Call 925-828-1580

Visit us at www.blackhawkchorus.com

Natural Ingredients Who doesn’t love coloring? But, traditional crayons are made from a non-renewable petroleum byproduct, paraffin wax. Look for crayons made from soy bean oil. Not only are they non-toxic, but they’re bio-degradable too. Looking to channel the Italian street artist within? Organic chalk with all natural ingredients is safe for small children.

They can decorate away without you worrying about them putting their hands or the chalk in their mouth. Eco-friendly colored pencils are my ‘tool of the trade,’ and I use sustainably harvested wood ones like the ones found at Stubby Pencil Studio, www. stubbypencilstudio.com. Manufactured from California cedar wood and certified by the Forest Stewardship Council to have originated from environmentally well-managed forests, they draw great cartoon aliens, flowers, trees, and dinosaurs.

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Make Your Own Supplies You’re never too old to enjoy a day of finger painting! It’s simple to mix up a batch on your own. Form a smooth paste with a cup of white flour (not self-rising) and 8 tablespoons of water. Separate small portions into muffin tins, and add organic food coloring to get the color you want. Thin to a pudding consistency with additional water, and you’re ready to create a Picasso. Fancy yourself more of a Monet?

Create watercolors by mixing 4 tablespoons of baking soda with 2 tablespoons of vinegar. Allow the mixture to rest until the fizzling stops. Then, add 2 tablespoons of cornstarch and ½ tablespoon of corn syrup. Mix until crumbly and divide in a muffin tin. Add about 10 drops organic food coloring to each cup. Paint away, mixing individual colors together to create a wide palette for your masterpiece.

Our recipes wouldn’t be complete without offering one for eco-friendly play dough. Mix 1 cup white flour (not self-rising) with ½ cup of table salt in a bowl.

Gradually add 1/3 cup water while kneading the mixture until it reaches a dough consistency. It should not be sticky. To tint the dough, add organic food coloring as the dough is mixed to create various shades. Store in the refrigerator in a well sealed container, but like all play dough – it will eventually harden.

All Danville and Alamo K-12 students are invited to participate in the 2012 Earth Day Art Poster Contest with the environmental theme of “Our World, Our Community.” Works of art will be displayed at the Town of Danville Village Art Theatre Gallery on Friday, April 20th 12-5pm. A reception honoring our artists will be held at 4pm. Prizes will be awarded to finalists in each of the following grade categories: Kindergarten, Grades 1-3, Grades 4-5, Grades 6-8 and Grades 9-12. For complete instructions, please visit http://sustainabledanville.com/2012-earth-daystudent-art-poster-contest/. All art work must be submitted by 4pm on April 17th.

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Page 8 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

Alamo Elementary School Besides an increase in the pollen count, April also brings an increase in activity in and around school.

At Alamo School it means that many of our favorite traditions, like Camp Arroyo and the Hoedown, are right around the corner. Along with these celebrations, April also brings STAR Testing and preparations for our students to “step up” to the next grade level.

It is important for students and families to remember that there is still a lot of learning that goes on during the months of April and May. With the arrival of good weather and longer days, comes an increase in outdoor and family activities. All of this makes it challenging for parents to strike a balance between schoolwork and play. For no one is this more challenging than for our graduating 5th graders.

Many of them are involved in spring sports, music, and other activities that provide them with the opportunity to exercise time management and prioritizing activities. These are skills that will serve them well in middle school!

This week I started thinking about our graduating 5th grade class, many of whom have been with us for all six years of school. I always find it striking how they spend nearly as much time with us as they will in their three years of middle school and four years of high school combined! It is easy to see why the years they spend at Alamo School are so important for their futures.

April is also when schools begin to look seriously at funding and leadership for the next school year. This year we at Alamo School have been blessed again with fundraising efforts that can best be described as miraculous! This year’s Alamo Auction Gala included both record attendance and earnings, ensuring that our students will be well supported next fall. Thank you Ed Fund! On the side of human capital, the PTA and Ed Fund have been hard at work filling critical positions. As usual, we have a strong showing of parents stepping up and filling vacancies left by our graduating families.

The jury is still out as to whether spring is truly upon us, but there is no doubt that we will soon be in the swell of activity that the arrival of spring always brings to our school. I am confident that despite the flurry of activity, our teachers and support staff will, as they always do, continue to build the educational foundation that prepares our students to “step up” to the next level in their lives.

Important Dates April 4 April 9 – 13 April 20 May 6 May 23

Staff & Student Basketball Game, 2PM Spring Break – No school Camp Alamo. 5:15PM – 8:30PM Hoedown Open House

Rancho Romero Elementary School

By Skye Larsh, Principal The end of the second trimester occurred on March 2nd, followed up with Parent Conferences.

Spring conferences differ from fall conferences in that the students do much of the talking and reflecting. Research shows that when teachers guide students in assessing their own learning, they assume greater control and responsibility for their academic performance. Additionally, parents, teachers, and students engage in open and honest dialogue that presents a clearer picture of progress. Approximately ninety-eight percent of Rancho Romero families participated in conferences during the week of March 12th-16 th.

Narrowing in on the goals set at the beginning of the year, I asked our Student Council to investigate and report on a few projects, events, and productions taking place at Rancho Romero.

Liam Woerner, Student Council President, talked with several teachers about what and how students are learning. He focused on how creativity, problem-solving, collaboration, and communication are being integrated into lessons. Liam discovered that fifth graders are currently working on persuasive essays. Students are working in small groups to generate creative topics and arguments. One group is attempting to persuade the school to tear out the grass field and put in turf. Fifth graders are also creating projects to demonstrate their understanding of content related to astronomy and biology by integrating research and art.

In the second and third grade split class, third grade students are helping the second grade students solve complex math problems. Additionally, they have been completing ‘in-character’ oral biographies of Steve Jobs, Walt Disney, and Julia Child to name a few. Fourth grade students are doing a lot of writing, working on author reports, participating in book clubs, and keeping up with gold rush journals. In the technology/21st Century Lab students are exercising problem solving skills, using Scratch, a programming game that animates characters. Finally, in art and music students have been focusing on the musical genres of rock, classical, jazz, Western, folk and Broadway, along with various artists including Paul Klee, Picasso, Joan Miro, Warhol, and Van Gogh.

Liam cited many good examples of collaboration, creativity, and communication and went on to say he is very proud to go to Rancho where kids can grow and be successful in life.

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Rancho Romero’s 5th Grade Team places 1st at Odyssey of the Mind Regional Tournament Congratulations to Rancho Romero’s 5th grade team for their first place finish.

They wowed the judges the with their original performance of “To Read the Fine Print or Not to Read the Fine Print”...based upon the Shakespeare play.

The focus of Odyssey of the Mind is on creative problem solving. This Rancho team has been together competing for the past three years and meeting since October of this year to prepare for this competition. They will be competing next at the California State Tournament on March 31st for an opportunity to represent California at the World Competition.

Pictured from left: Harrison Wheeler, Cian Molloy, Tess Erickson, Brett Shinnerer, Brett Spalding. Front: Collette Ivanov. Missing: Annaliese Back; Coaches Ellen Spalding and Tameria Wheeler.

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Stone Valley Middle School A peek inside the Principal’s office…

By Shaun K. McElroy, Principal Remember the General Motors ad campaign that featured the slogan “This is not your father’s Oldsmobile”? That slogan is appropriate to what happens in the Principal’s office today. Generations past may remember that a trip to the Principal’s office often resulting in a stern lecture, tears, or even corporal punishment! Today’s school administrator has a much different approach to running a school. The 20th century principal vs. the 21st century principal bears little resemblance to their 21st century counterparts other than the title.

I host regular meetings with middle school principals from 22 different middle school, six school districts, and two counties. At our final meeting last June, we had a smaller than usual turn out which created an opportunity to have a more intimate conversation about our practice. The conversation quickly turned to why we choose to be school administrators (I know what you’re thinking…glamour, prestige, high salary). All present agreed that we choose our profession because we thought we could make a difference in the lives of children. Each principal recounted their experiences mentoring students who were considered “high risk,” and we shared our success stories regarding those students. Suffice to say that working with children is still the main motivation for school principals. About 20% of my time each week is spent working directly with students. I have a dozen students who visit my office voluntarily each week for academic counseling. These meeting are the highlight of my week. A typical week looks something like this: Daily meetings: • Office manger - we discuss my calendar, budget, any school or community issue that needs attention.

• Assistant Principal - coordinate supervision, discuss discipline issues, staff development Weekly meetings: • Admin Leadership team – Assistant Principal, School Psychologist, Counselor, Site Technology Support. School and individual calendars, students achieving

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Keeping a pulse on instruction and providing teachers with feedback • Teacher conferences, evaluations, student issues, professional development Monthly meetings: • Principal’s advisory council – made up of teacher representatives from each department. This group’s primary responsibilities are data collection and analysis, staff development planning, policy development • PTA, ED Fund presidents – conversations about community feedback and event planning • My Supervisor – monitoring my annual goals and problem solving site issues • Disciplinary conferences with students who are exhibiting a high discipline profile.

• Supervision - before and after school, break time, three lunch periods. During lunch I monitor the cafeteria line and ask trivia questions on every topic from pop culture to “worst case scenario” survival game.

Side note: The SRVUSD management team is one of the strongest, most respected groups of educational leaders in the state of California. Nearly a dozen principals in the district are certified leadership coaches. More information about leadership coaching can be found on my professional website at www.theschooladminstrator.net.

The 21st century leader is made up of equal parts politician, counselor, staff developer, curriculum leader, budget analyst, mentor, and facilitator. If your child comes home from school and says they were in the Principal’s office, think good thoughts.

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Page 10 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

San Ramon Valley High School

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Monte Vista High School

By Janet Terranova, Principal April finds Monte Vista in the beginning stages of construction. Thanks to a very generous donation from the Dave Duffield family, construction on our new student center is underway. In February we moved eight classrooms, the library, the College and Career Center, and the Copy Center to new locations. Immediately the fencing went up, and the preliminary work for the demolition of the library and 100 buildings began. During spring break the actual demolition of these buildings will take place, and construction will begin. The student center is scheduled to open in August 2013. Once construction begins, we will have updates and pictures available on our website.

On March 20th Monte Vista High Academic Boosters in conjunction with San Ramon Valley High PTSA hosted a parent resource night. The guest speakers were our Schools Resource Officers (SROs), Officer Roderick and Officer Richards, who spoke to over 120 parents about the “challenges” teens in our community face. Topics included drugs, alcohol, social pressures, and trends. Our SROs did an excellent job educating our parent community with both anecdotal information and Danville and national trends. They offered tips for parents on communicating with their teen and a list of warning signs of possible drug or alcohol use. The end result: parents want more information. Next year Monte Vista and San Ramon Valley hope to offer a series of four parent education evenings on these and other important topics.

This month Monte Vista had the opportunity to welcome incoming 9th graders and their parents to an informational night. Students and parents learned about high school requirements and course offerings, and then they learned a little about student life on a high school campus. They were entertained by students from our vocal music, instrumental music, drama departments, and 9th grade cheer squad. Welcome class of 2016!

If you would like more information about Monte Vista High School, please visit our website at mvhigh.org.

We are ready to face the remainder of the school year. The last nine weeks will go by quickly as there are many activities to keep your son/daughter occupied both academically and socially. Please continue to talk with your student about the upcoming events, and continue to check the website (www.srvhs.net).

Here are a few highlights for the month: Construction: The demolition on our “old pool” is complete. Construction of our state of the art new aquatics center will start this month!

Renaissance Program: Thanks to Janet Willford and the leadership committee for another successful program. We have awarded almost 1,100 students for their improvement achievements.

Student Course Selection sign ups: Students have completed their online course registration for next year, and we are beginning to build the master schedule for the 2012-2013 school year. If you have questions, please contact the Counseling office.

Senior Ball: The month of April officially ushers in our Senior Ball (which is in May). As we prepare our students for their ball, we continue to emphasize using good judgment, taste, and, above all, safety. Please join with us to let your student know the importance of doing the right thing even when no-one is looking.

Our ultimate goal is to provide a safe, respectable event that creates wonderful memories for our students. I would also suggest that each parent become aware of what is taking place at pre-parties, after parties, as well as what is taking place in the buses and limousines that students take to and from their ball.

STAR Testing: Standardized testing is one of many measures of a student’s performance. Unlike the periodic classroom assessments that are a direct match to what is taught measuring their performance individually, standardized tests are written to compare students using questions that are below, at, and above a student’s grade level. Questions are based on a national sampling of curriculum, and the results indicate a student’s strengths and needs based on a national norming study. A student’s standardized test profile is only one piece of the assessment puzzle reflecting growth and achievement.

Please discuss with your student(s) the importance of taking these types of tests.

Take the time to discuss the “whys” of testing and the important information we, as educators, can obtain from the results. Please join with the school to help our students understand what the results can do, also, to give them an understanding of their strengths and weaknesses, as well as what we can learn about our school’s curriculum and instructional programs. A good night’s sleep coupled with a healthy attitude toward the test will help foster a true reflection of what our students know and, in turn, give us an accurate picture of needed improvements.

Senior Cut Day: Traditions are strong at SRVHS. They often begin with the best intentions in mind; however, they often include activities that are not in line with our best practices. The tradition of “Senior Cut” day is a strong one not only at SRVHS, but at schools across the nation. We do not endorse a senior cut day of any kind. To that end, please do not allow your student to cut school for a senior cut day. Students may tell you that their teacher has told them not to come to school. This is not true. If this situation does happen in your home, please feel free to call the school and investigate.

We actively discourage the tradition from continuing. Please join us in our efforts.

San Ramon Valley High School Leadership Class recently held a See's Candy Fundraiser.

In just a short time, they were able to raise $1,000 which they donated to the nonprofit organization Foster A Dream, located in Martinez. The money raised will enable an eighth grade student, who was unable to raise all the funds necessary, to achieve his dream of participating in his school’s trip to Washington DC this spring. Pictured left to right is Tamara Earl, Program Director of Foster A Dream, Samara Batoog, Brynne Ichiuji, Kim Castaneda Executive Director of Foster A Dream, and Aidan Struck. Photo by Kathryn Larson.

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Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 11

The Car Guy

From the authors of

By Paul Matthew Peterson, Specialty Sales Classics Today at our Fairfield showroom, I had the pleasure of meeting a nine year old young man whose knowledge of classic cars, and cars in general, was amazing. His parents were not traditional ‘car people,’ but they have done a fine job of nurturing his interests.

“He makes us watch the Mecum Auctions on TV with him,” said his dad while the boy (We’ll call the boy “Mr. B.” for this articles’ purposes) was sitting in the dune buggy we have in stock, showing his mother how a five-point harness works.

Mr. B. inspected EVERY vehicle in inventory, and he named nearly all of them before he was told what each was. He knew which cars had V8s and which cars had six cylinders. He explained what a GTO Judge was to me. Mr. B. was quite impressed with the ‘Pistol Grip’ shifter in the six-pack Roadrunner we have here and the Air Grabber hood graphics. I could’ve hung out with that kid for hours.

What I got from our encounter, besides being thoroughly entertained for nearly an hour (and finding a future Specialty Sales Classics employee), was the fact that these classic cars really DO appeal to ‘kids of all ages.’ The future of the collector car industry was just here, and the industry will be just fine if Mr. B. is any indication.

Are you looking for a way to peel the young’uns away from the video game console or a way to get them interested in something REAL and tangible? Try attending the next local car show. Flyers are usually available at the local auto parts store, or they’ll know of a show or a weekly local ‘Cruise Night’ at a drive-in nearby. Pry the kids away from the TV, and take them to the old car event. If you can’t find one, stop by one of our showrooms in Pleasanton, Benicia, Fairfield, and Redwood City – opening in May of this year, and browse our huge classic car inventory. We are open seven days a week, and we have over 220 Collector and Investment vehicles in stock and on display.

You may be surprised at the interest kids take in classic cars. Perhaps take in a race at Laguna Seca, or one of the other tracks in the area, to see if there’s a spark of interest. By the way, take the girls too…Danica Patrick is a pretty good race driver, and she’s a far better role model than some entertainers. I’ve also met many very talented and knowledgeable women in this business, and they usually have better taste in cars than the men. There are many careers in the automotive industry, working with both classic and late model cars, that would be wonderful lifetime occupations for the young adults in your world. Who knows? You may have another Mr. B. or Ms. B. on your hands!

With the weather warming up, the old cars will soon be peeking out from the garages and storage areas and expecting to be taken for a ride. If you parked yours last fall but neglected to put in a fuel stabilizing additive, you’ll want to contact a good shop to correct this problem...a shop that regularly deals with old cars.

The gasoline without lead that we buy today will break down quickly, sometimes within a few months. There are many additives on the market available to combat this problem. However if it’s not specifically designed to work with Ethanol fuels, it won’t keep the gas stabilized.

“Sea Foam” is available at most auto parts stores. It will help to stabilize your fuel (even Ethanol), and if the car has gas that hasn’t ‘turned’ completely yet, it will help keep the varnish from sticking to the inside of your entire fuel system.

You can tell when you fuel is ‘bad’ when it smells like burnt varnish rather than gasoline. It is usually a lot browner as well.

If your pride and joy does appear to have varnished fuel, DON’T START THE CAR! The repair bill for simply pumping out the bad gas and replacing it (Don’t try this at home unless you like that smell and want it around for a long time) will be one fourth of the bill to pump out the gas, flush the lines, change the fuel pump, and rebuild the carb. Call a shop (we have one in Fairfield that does this job daily) and have the car towed in to change the fuel out of the tank. Again, that bill will be far less than the one you will receive two days later after you try to drive it with contaminated fuel and have it towed to a shop anyway.

I hope the spring weather gives you ‘Old Car Fever’ like it does me. See you at the shows, the races, and perhaps at one of our showrooms!

Check out our inventory at www.SpecialtySales.com. Feel free to email me at TheCarGuy@SpecialtySales.com with any questions or comments, or call Advertorial 800-600-2262.

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Page 12 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

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Tax Tips Today’s Technology

By Bob Shalon, IRS Enrolled Agent, H&R Block, Danville How tempting it is to take advantage of all the technological advancements and do your income taxes yourself. For many taxpayers, it is the correct choice. Being able to prepare your own tax return at a low cost using software that has all the rules of the tax code built in is very strong.

Now, it is obvious that for me to give an opinion of whether to use a tax professional or do it yourself, I am biased. Do I see the tax preparation industry changing...of course I do. Every year technology is able to do more. However, there are certain keys to analyzing what you should do.

More than half way through this year’s tax season, here are observations that I would like to share with everyone regarding this subject.

Know Yourself What I mean by this is how much do you enjoy the detail work it takes to do a complete tax return? If you enjoy working on your computer and entering data, ultimately seeing a finished product that YOU created, then much can be said in favor of going the self prepared route.

However, I must share this...if the only reason you are self preparing your return is to save money, this is the wrong reason! Missing one deduction or credit negates the savings. More important is your being either frustrated or uncertain as you work on your return. Paying for a tax professional is a ONE TIME FEE. Is it worth the time you need to devote? This is a question you need to answer as it is different for everyone.

Second Looks H&R Block has had an extremely successful program of second looks at previously filed or completed tax returns. Eight out of every ten returns that I am asked to review were self prepared, not coming from another preparer.

This alone substantiates my opinion of taxpayers feeling uncertain about their

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work. Some that I review are perfect. Some are not.

When I say that some returns are not prepared correctly, I am not saying that the return will be audited or incur penalties from the IRS. No, I mean that the individual has missed opportunities in their favor. Here are the areas I see where taxpayers cheat themselves out of money: Education Credits - There are three types of credits/deductions that can apply. Not choosing correctly can cost you thousands of dollars.

Filing Status and Dependents - As automatic as you might think this function is, way too many opportunities are missed. Do you really know what the qualifications are and what the differences are between a qualifying child and qualifying person?

Employee Business Expenses - What is considered a commute and what is not?

IRA Deductible Limits - Roth vs. Traditional IRA’s.

Net Operating Losses - Can you carry forward or back?

OK, enough. Now I am letting my obvious prejudice show as I am extremely proud of my profession and what I do. Results and trends cannot be argued. Technology continues to get stronger and more robust every year. Yet the number of taxpayers having a professional prepare their return is growing tremendously, in many cases due to this same technology.

The Danville office is growing this year at over 40% in client returns. You cannot put a price tag on peace of mind and convenience. Once again remember, the cost of tax preparation is a one time charge. My sincere thanks to all our new clients as well as our prior clients who continue to return.

My goal is to have this office be an integral Bob Shalon, EA part of the Danville/ Master Tax Advisor • Enrolled Agent Alamo areas.

Please call me at 925.820.9570 any time at 925-820- 714 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Suite B, Danville 9570 with quesSycamore Square (next to Lucky’s) bob.shalon@tax.hrblock.com tions.

Advertorial

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Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 13

Power Protection and Preparedness By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO We recently had a significant power outage, and it lasted for a few hours. I always enjoy these interruptions to the routine of daily work. It began the usual way. First the power went out, like a surprised boxer taking an unexpected jab to the chin. It recovered briefly, like the boxer steadying on his feet, but one more jab followed a few of seconds later and it was lights out! We were down for the count.

Over the years, I’ve created a safe and convenient way to power my house independently off the power grid. I found this necessary as we do a lot of work from our home. I immediately went to the side of our home where I keep our generator. Once there I reviewed my checklist for switching our home over to independent power. It’s important to follow a strict procedure, so that nothing is damaged and everyone is kept safe. Within five minutes, I had us switched over to auxiliary power, and except for the din of the generator, one wouldn’t know that our neighborhood was in a power outage.

It’s important to be prepared, and I enjoy having the right tools when these little hiccups happen. I like to think that when ‘the big one’ hits, we’ll be better prepared to comfortably and safely survive than most. Every time we have a little power outage we’re practicing our survival skills. And, when you take time to prepare, you convert yourself from being a victim into being someone that can help others. There’s no higher calling than to help others in their time of need.

I still have a challenge with my auxiliary power system that I’ve not figured out. The problem is how to trick my solar system into believing the PGE power is ON when it’s OFF, so that it will keep generating even though PGE is offline. The primary reason home solar systems don’t generate when the PGE power is off is for safety, and rightly so. If your home is generating at capacity while PGE power is off, it could electrocute a linesman trying to repair the circuit out on the street. There are other considerations as well, but the safety of the repair crew is tops in my mind. To prevent that from happening, my system is completely disconnected from street PGE power as soon as we have an outage, so mine is a more technical challenge of feeding my system the right voltage and frequency to fool it into thinking its OK to generate, so that I can use my solar power instead of relying on my very loud and stinky generator. If anyone has done this in a home solar environment, I’d love to discuss it over a cup of coffee.

Just a few days before the power outage we were installing a new Vulkano TV viewing system for a client, and we installed an uninterruptible power supply (UPS) to protect their nice big TV and their network gear. Our timing couldn’t have been better, because this was exactly the kind of outage which is so hard on equipment. In fact, we got several calls afterward from people who lost network equipment and computers from the power outage. I protect all of our TV’s and computers with UPS’s. If you need to understand this better, call us, because it’s an inexpensive way to protect yourself.

What would you do if the power was out for a couple of days? If we have a serious regional ‘event’, there may not be any option but to stay in your home sheltering in place until the infrastructure is repaired. Can you still cook? Is your stove electric or gas? Do you have non-perishable food in your pantry to last a few days? What about your water heater? An issue I need to address is that my ‘tankless’ Takagi water heater has electronic ignition, and needs 120vac to turn it on. When the power is out, I have cold water until the generator is online. Do you have any elderly citizens living with you who require supplementary oxygen? My father was on oxygen 24/7, and needed an automatically switched generator installed so that he wouldn’t have a potentially life-threatening oxygen interruption.

Maybe your plans include “bugging out” and getting out of the area (if possible) when things get gnarly. If so, do you keep extra gas at home, and do you keep your car gas tank at least half full at all times? What if the highways are blocked? Do you have a motorcycle to use instead? Maybe that’s been the plan but you’ve become complacent. We all get complacent. Well, thank the power outage for reminding us to brush up on our preparedness! Why settle for being a victim, when being self-sufficient is so much more fun?

If these topics surrounding power protection and preparedness resonate with you, and you’d like to improve your situation, we should talk and figure out a path forward that meets your goals. You can always reach the friendly staff at Portable CIO via email or telephone at info@theportablecio.com or (925)552-7953.

Advertorial

Blackhawk Republican Women Present Climategate Author On Wednesday, April 11th, the Blackhawk Republican Women will hold a luncheon featuring speaker Brian Sussman, KSFO radio host and author of Climategate: A Veteran Meteorologist Exposes the Global Warming Scam. The event will be held at the Blackhawk Country Club located at 599 Blackhawk Club Drive in Danville. Sign-in and a social will begin at 11AM followed by a luncheon and speaker.

Come meet Brian in person, and get an advance copy of the book that he says Al Gore and the environmental radicals “will wish was never written!”

Please make your reservation and payment of $25 written to “Blackhawk Republican Women” by noon, Monday, April 9th by contacting Marianne Lyons at 856 Turrini Drive, Danville, CA 94526, (925) 8206452, or rlyons1009@sbcglobal.net.

Page 14 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

Configuration continued from front page development fees collected by the Tri-Valley Transportation Council (TVTC), made up of officials from five cities and two counties. Those officials intended the project to mitigate Interstate 680 traffic, generated by residential and commercial development within the Tri-Valley, in Alamo’s downtown intersection by (1) reconfiguring traffic lanes (only part of the full, intended reconfiguration has been done), (2) adding stoplights at both Stone Valley Road freeway access points, (3) widening the bridge over San Ramon Creek, (4) adding a second left turn lane from westbound Stone Valley Road to southbound Danville Boulevard, and (5) adding a southbound through lane on Danville Boulevard for indeterminate distances north and south of Stone Valley Road. The project description above and the diagram were provided at that time by the County Public Works Department.

The Department’s description also indicated a portion of funding for the project would come from the Alamo AOB. In June, 2008, a large contingent of over 130 Alamo citizens attended a TVTC meeting in Dougherty Valley and demanded that TVTC remove the Ultimate Configuration from the TVTC project list. The TVTC complied. However, the County did not remove Project #5 from the Alamo AOB project list.

Fast forwarding to this year’s March 6th meeting of the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (MAC), MAC members took a strong position to ask the County to remove Project #5,“Stone Valley Road/Danville Boulevard Inter-

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section Improvements,” from the AOB project list and make the list relevant to Alamo by adding projects desired by the community. Jerry Fahey, representing the County Public Works Department, assured the MAC that the Alamo AOB change process, which according to the County takes 58 to 88 weeks, would start in April or May, after the Department finishes changes to the East County AOB project list. He also said that the updated CRIPP with its current Alamo AOB list, including Project #5, is expected to go to the two-member committee of the Board of Supervisors, the TWIC (Transportation, Water & Infrastructure Committee), in April.

The CRIPP is the County’s means of satisfying a “core requirement” of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority’s (CCTA) Growth Management Program (GMP) with which the County must comply to receive its share of the half-cent transportation sales tax. The CCTA GMP requires the County (and each City in the county) to develop a five-year capital improvement program (CIP), as follows: Each jurisdiction’s CIP must outline the projects needed to implement General Plan goals and policies over at least a five-year period. The program will indicate approved projects, project costs, and a financial plan for securing the necessary funding. The jurisdiction shall also forward the transportation component of its capital improvement program to the Authority for incorporation into the Authority’s database of transportation projects.2 Thus, the CRIPP is the County’s official record of authorized traffic mitigation projects. On May 9, 1989, the Board of Supervisors adopted the County Road Improvement Policy, which states the County Road Improvement Program is needed for three reasons, one of which is “to adopt a transportation capital improvement plan to identify the use of developer fees”.3 Today, the updated CRIPP’s Alamo AOB list of potential developer fee-funded projects still includes Project #5, “Stone Valley Road/Danville Boulevard Intersection Improvements” – the official title of the Ultimate Configuration, which the Tri-Valley Transportation Council consented to remove from its project list four years ago.

There is another public reference to the Ultimate Configuration. It appears on the project list of the Southern Contra Costa Regional Fee Fund, comprised of developers’ fees collected by agreement among Contra Costa County, the Town of Danville, and the City of San Ramon. The project list of this fund is found in a 2008 CCTA summary report of traffic mitigation funds and is repro-

See Configuration continued on page 26

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Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 15

Istanbul to Venice CruiseOceania

By Mike Mullery- Alamo World Travel We cruised from Istanbul to Venice. It was a great trip. Our cruise ship the Oceania Nautica was a good size for the 684 passengers, and the service was good with 400 crew members taking care of us.

The cruise began in Istanbul, Turkey, an exotic city that straddles the Bosporus Strait, with one part in Europe and another part in Asia. With an estimated population of 10-13 million, a rich history, diversified cuisine, and incredible shopping, there is something for everyone. Some things not to miss include the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace, and the Grand Bazaar, which is truly incredible with thousands of shops. We could have easily enjoyed a few extra days in the area.

Another incredible port was Kusadasi, Turkey, origination of tours to Ephesus, an ancient city dating to the 10th century BC, home to the 25,000 seat amphitheater where the apostle Paul stood accused. It was the inspiration for Paul’s Epistle to Ephesians. Near the amphitheater is the ancient Library of Celsus. Kusadasi was an expensive stop for us; they have a great variety of Turkish rugs.

Athens was another stop with an incredible history. A thing you must do is ascend to the Acropolis. The Parthenon, built on top of the hill in the 5th Century BC, is an architectural marvel. Nearby you'll find the Theatre of Dionysus, the world's oldest theater where plays were performed in an open air space to crowds as large as 250,000.

The walled city of Dubrovnik was another impressive port of call. We enjoyed the walk on the wall around the city.

The views of Venice were great from the front of the ship as we cruised into port. Some things to see include the Basilica di San Marco, constructed in the 9th century, looking over Piazza San Marco. Doge’s Palace is another thing to see.

Of course, no tour of Venice is complete without a gondola ride.

A very pleasant surprise on the trip was Kotor, Montenegro. We took a tour of the city and saw people walking up a large hill. We checked further and found there was a fortress at the top of the hill, a climb of over 1,500 steps uphill. Although unprepared for the climb with the wrong shoes and little water, we made it to the top and got some good photos.

There is a cruise for nearly everyone. We personally enjoy the smaller ships.

Although classified in the medium ship category (600-2,500 passengers), Nautica is on the lower end in size but offered some variety as well as good service.

Many people want a bigger variety of things to do, and the larger ships are a good option for them. Some of the larger ships also have good programs for children and are a great option for parents that want to travel with their children but do not want to spend every minute with them. Those who want even better service opt for the small ships. If you want all inclusive - drinks and gratuities included in the price, there is a cruise for you. Some cruise prices even include shore excursions. The fastest growing cruise segment at this time is River Cruising. Here, there is endless scenery, included shore excursions, beer or wine with dinner, and the opportunity to ride bicycles between ports.

To learn more about cruises (or tours), come see Alamo World Travel & Tours 3201 Danville Blvd, Suite 255 Alamo, CA 94507 located in Alamo Commons between Ace Hardware and the Peasants Courtyard. (925) 837-8742 You can also see thousands of cruises and tours at www.alamoworld.com. Unlike the Internet, we’ve been there, and we will be here after your travel is booked.

Western Tableau with Rhodesian Ridgeback (Trails West), 1993, oil on canvas, 48 x 70 inches. Courtesy of Louis K. Meisel Gallery.

At the Newly Expanded

Saint Mary’s College Museum of Art

Richard McLean: Master Artist Tribute IX Horses, Landscapes and Portraits

April 22 through June 17, 2012 In conversation: Richard McLean and Paul Karlstrom April 22, 2 PM, Soda Activity Center followed by a reception Studio Gallery: Master Artist Tribute Series I – VIII Armistead Gallery: River of Words: Youth Art and Poetry Keith Gallery: William Keith and the California Oak stmarys-ca.edu/museum (925) 631- 4379

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Page 16 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

Art in Everyday Life

By Tony M. Vecchio

ings. To find out about a more comprehensive list of plein air activities, search “plein air artists” and “Northern California” on Google.

Local art exhibits in April: Danville’s Village Theatre Art Gallery's “Branching Out,” runs through April 13th. This exhibit will show how artists and painters explore the subject of trees and related concepts and interpretations. The Alamo-Danville Artists’ Society’s (ADAS) exhibition, “Sprint Palette,” runs through May at the Blackhawk Art Gallery in Danville’s Blackhawk Plaza. An exhibit of over 40+ artists showing oils, mixed media, photography, sculpture, jewelry, and textiles. The Bedford Gallery at the Lesher Center for the Arts presents Outfitters: The Contemporary Art of Clothing through May 13th. This intriguing exhibition presents artists who use the armature of clothing or actual clothing as a premise for creating sculptural exhibits. On April 27, the gallery will host a workshop with the contributing artists from 1-4pm St. Mary’s College Museum of Art presents the work of master artist Richard McLean April 22 – June 17th, featuring horses, landscapes, and portraits, with a public reception on Sunday April 22 at 2pm.

Tony Michael Vecchio writes about visual imagery, painting, and style.

Contact him at tonymvecchio@gmail.com.

Now that April is here, and we’re starting to see a few days of warming sun, the bright sound of chirping birds, and longer days of light, we’re all anticipating and sensing the soothing beginnings of our beautiful Bay Area spring weather. Bring it on. As nature starts painting the hills and landscape with her annual renewal and refreshed palette of green buds, yellow blooms, and native plants and flowers that exhibit a multitude of subtle variations of color and light, our local plein air artists – those who work “in the open air” - will be outdoors observing, sketching, and painting.

You can notice them by their traveling easels, sometimes known as French Box Easels, with telescopic legs, built-in paint box, and palette. These highly portable easels allow them to happily trek into the forests and hills, canyons and shorelines, to find the perfect combination of light, location, and atmosphere on which to focus their attention and paint. Or meditate. Sometimes known as one and the same. Contemporary artists have always been drawn to paint outdoors, finding their favorite locations in nature, and regarding the natural, moving light, so revered by the 19th century Impressionists, as ideal for capturing the subtle and graceful touches of atmosphere, mood, and feeling. Especially abundant in our local artistic community, plein air artists follow a rich and storied California tradition of seeking out and capturing the incredible and varied natural beauty of Northern California.

Each artist intimately expresses great appreciation for the Bay Area’s scenic diversity, from grand vistas of rolling hills and majestic coastlines to close-up detailed interpretations of nature, doing so through the type of media they feel most comfortable with, such as watercolor, oil, acrylic, or pastels. Focusing intently on what they’re observing, each artists captures a little bit of time, transforming the landscape’s natural light, colors, and shadows into an emotional clarity of moment. For this reason, purchasing an artist’s rendition of one of your favorite Bay Area or California scenic locations and displaying it in your home or work environment is an ideal way to recall nature’s beauty and remind you of a memorable place in time.

And it’s not just a landscape, flower, or other nature subject that limits the plein air artist’s subject matter. There are beautiful cars, beautiful people, and many interesting architectural locations that are outdoors and bathed in wonderful natural light. Especially in the Bay Area. You could spend a lifetime, for example, just painting scenes in San Francisco, one of the most visually stunning cities in the country.

And around Northern California, during the spring and summer, there’s a tremendous variety of outdoor wine and food festivals, automobile shows, and sports events where there’s unlimited subject matter for the outdoor painter.

Whether it’s called plein air, open air, or outdoor painting, you can find many excursions, workshops, and exhibits planned for the upcoming spring and summer months, all around our Bay Area. Groups such as the Bay Area Plein Air Artists, California Open Tues thru Sat 10 to 6 Watercolor Association, Sonoma Plein Air, Sunday 11 to 5 • Closed Monday along with many others organize these out-

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Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 17

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Page 18 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

Clip Notes

By Jody Morgan

www.yourmonthlypaper.com scholars, however, believe this is a naturally occurring hybrid that was cultivated in Persian gardens for centuries and brought to England as early as 1621. Although the provenance of this lilac is debatable, its reliable performance in our climate is indisputable.

The botanical name for lilacs, including species native to Southern Europe and Asia, comes from Greek mythology. Pan was in lustful pursuit of the nymph, Syrinx. Not wishing to be embraced by a god with the hindquarters and horns of a goat, Syrinx fled to the River Ladon where the sympathetic river god saved her by transforming her into a stand of reeds. Pan sighed deeply as he clutched the reeds and found the melancholy melody of his breath moving over hollow stems appealing. Gathering a bunch of small reed pieces, he fashioned the first Pan Pipes or “Syrinx.” Like the reeds, the stems of lilacs (Syringa) are hollow.

Local nurseries offer a number of lilac varieties selected for their heat tolerance and low chill requirement. New on the scene is a re-bloomer trademarked “Boomerang.” Deer resistant like all lilacs, this hybrid (Syringa x “Penda’) gets its first flush of flowers in spring and then puts out more blossoms from summer into fall. I have no experience with this newcomer, but it has just made the top of my wish list.

Gloomy winter days, even in a climate that fosters flowers year round, always bring to mind the opening lines of T. S. Eliot’s The Wasteland: April is the cruelest month, breeding Lilacs out of the dead land, mixing Memory and desire, stirring Dull roots with spring rain.

I’ve lost count of how many gardeners I know who have recently expressed to me their desire to once again grow the lilacs they fondly remember from time spent in cooler climates. Common lilacs, Syringa vulgaris, do not bloom well after warm winters and get disfigured by powdery mildew in summer heat. However, Persian lilacs, no less historic than the old-fashioned lilacs that bloomed in nineteenth century dooryards, are sweetly scented and heat tolerant. By late March, mine is in full flower in Danville, and the foliage is never an eyesore. The roots reach underneath my front lawn imbibing a moderate amount of water.

Lilacs were first introduced to northern Europe in 1562. Ogier Ghiselin de Busbecq is generally thought to have transported shoots from the court of Sulieman The New York Life family is here to help you achieve your financial the Magnificent in Constantinople, where he was servgoals through the products we offer. Whether you’re purchasing a ing as ambassador, back to his employer, Ferdinand I in first home, starting a family or business, accumulating funds for your Vienna. In 1570, de Brusbecq took a lilac shoot along children’s education, or saving for retirement, we will work with you with him to Paris when he accompanied Archduchess to develop a financial strategy that’s right for you.

Elizabeth on her journey to wed King Charles IX of France.

Easily rooted from cuttings and naturally spreading Call our office today. (925) 552-7152 from suckers (shoots that spring up from the roots), lilacs soon spread from royal enclosures to cottage gardens. Neither of the places claiming to be home to the first lilacs brought to the New World has documentation to prove the claim, but John Bartram’s 1753 response to Peter Collinson indicates the popularity of the shrubs. Collinson in London and Bartram in Philadelphia had been trading shipments of collectible plants. Having ordered some lilacs for his own garden, Collinson forwarded a box to Bartram. He was startled when Bartram wrote back that lilacs “are already too numerous as roots brought by the early settlers have spread enormously.”

Group Photo Here A stand of lilacs that marks the site of William Brewster’s 1634 homestead in Duxbury, Massachusetts is said by local tradition to have been planted from shoots brought to Mayflower passenger Brewster by family or friends arriving later. Brewster died on April 10, 1644, leaving behind a library of 400 books.

Included was a copy of the work most translated in its day after the Bible: Rembert Dodens’ herbal.

Another old stand of lilacs on Mackinac Island in Michigan purports to have been planted about 1650 by French Jesuit missionaries. While the Brewster lilacs have been continuously tended to favor rejuvenating stock, the Mackinaw Island specimens boast ancient Pictured are agents of the Greater San Francisco General Office of New York Life Insurance Company in Alamo. trunks almost 2 feet in circumference.

From left to right: In 1734, long before he began corresponding with John Erwin "EJ" M. Magbitang, LUTCF (CA Ins. Lic. #0D37634), Emma M. Magbitang (CA Ins. Lic. #0710892), Julius Elmer John Bartram, Peter Collinson developed a plant"Joel" M. Magbitang, LUTCF (CA Ins. Lic. #0D35676) exchanging friendship with John Custis who boasted that his Williamsburg garden was “inferior to few in 3000 Danville Blvd., Suite L Alamo, CA 94507 Virginia.” Among the plants Collinson shipped to Tel. (925) 552-7152 / Fax (925) 552-7127 www.MagbitangFinancialGroup.com Custis during their twelve-year arrangement was the Persian lilac. Since Collinson specifically selected species or cultivars recently discovered or highly © 2011 New York Life Insurance Company, 51 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10010. SMRU00454979CV (Exp. 08/25/13) fashionable for his shipments, the obvious conclusion is that the Persian lilac was a new introduction. Some

From Our Family to Yours

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Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 19

Life in the Alamo Garden Celebrate Spring

By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect This year has been a little tricky figuring out if spring is really here or not. Spring started early but winter is still threatening. If you look closely in the garden at the trees, shrubs and perennials, you’ll see the glory of spring quietly emerging from the cold and wet. The beginning of spring is one of my favorite times in the garden. I love to observe the new and fresh leaves bud from dead and deciduous branches and bright new lime green leaves that stand out against older darker green ones. I like to watch how quickly daffodils, jonquils, and paper whites (Narcissus) push their fresh long leaves through the decaying leaves and mulch to bloom bright and cheery colors. The days are warming; the sun shinning and like clock-work life in the garden labors to show us the glory of spring.

Here are some of the plants that you might have noticed that are the first to declare the beginning of spring. Cercis occidentalis (tree-Western Redbud) blooms lavender flowers on smooth gray branches before leaves form, Daphne odora (shrub-Winter Daphne) with its intoxicating fragrance fills the air, Hardenbergia violacea ‘Happy Wanderer’ (vine-Lilac Vine) weaves a lively trail of lilac flowers, Iberis sempervirens ‘Snowflake’ (perennial-Candytuft) trails profuse white flowers over the ground, and one of my favorites, Veronica umbrosa ‘Georgia Blue’ (ground cover-Speedwell), blooms profuse cobalt blue flowers as winter fades out. Other great note-worthy spring blooming trees are Pyrus calleryana ‘Redspire’ (ornamental pear), Magnolia stellata (Star Magnolia), and Prunus serrulata ‘Shirotae’ (Flowering cherry).

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After a long winter’s nap, we long to connect with nature to rejuvenate, relax, recreate, and renew ourselves. A garden is one of those places that has the gift to touch all of our human senses; sight, smell, touch, sound, and taste. Wandering through a beautifully designed Alamo garden allows the senses to be stimulated by wonderful visuals, fragrances, textures, sounds, and tastes that nature can offer.

Let your spirits be lifted twice this spring: first by strolling through inspiring gardens and second by knowing that you are helping to raise much-needed money for charity. Come join our spring tradition!

I am thrilled to announce our 3rd annual Garden Tour Fundraiser: Life in the Walnut Creek Garden - a tour of five distinct Walnut Creek gardens designed by me. I personally invite you to come Celebrate Spring with us: stroll the budding gardens, nibble goodies, learn about urban farming in our veggie garden demo, listen to music as you meander, enjoy the spirit of Cinco de Mayo, chat with me, and enjoy other surprises we have planned while supporting our beneficiaries; The Quincy Lee Foundation, Hospice of the East Bay, Contra Costa Guide Dogs for the Blind, and Urban Farmers. Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 5th from 11am-4pm. For more info and tickets go to our website-garden tour page. It will be a pleasure to celebrate the glory of spring with you!

A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: Come have some fun with us in the gardens, help raise needed dollars for our beneficiaries and CELEBRATE SPRING! Gardening Quote of the Month: “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today,

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Page 20 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

Spring Time is Here…Check Your Crawl Space

is too high), and a 2” exhaust pipe with a check valve. When necessary, sump pumps can be included in a French drain project, where the slope is not great enough.

By Bay Area Drainage

An underfloor system is used in cases where the water has already intruded under the home. If installed around the entire perimeter of crawl space, it will eliminate standing water under the home but cannot stop water intrusion into the crawl space. An under-floor system consists of a 3” or 4” perforated drain line in a trench filled with drain rock with possible finger trenches, and a vapor barrier.

If you recently purchased a home or even if you have been a long time homeowner, you should check under the foundation of your home for standing water.

If you notice cracks in your drywall or cracks in your foundation, this could all be caused by soil expansion. In the crawl space you may find standing water (after a good rain) or damp soil up to twelve months after winter, or you may find visible water stains on piers or water rivets. There are several different types of drainage solutions that can be done.

French Drain Systems A French drain system will typically go around the entire perimeter of your home. A partial French drain will encompass only part of the perimeter of the home.

The purpose of this type of drainage system is to prevent water intrusion before it enters into the crawl spaces of your home. A French drain system will start 12” below the foundation of your home. A four inch solid and perforated PVC pipe and Class II perm drain rock or ¾ drain rocks with filter fabric will be installed in this trench. All downspouts from the home will be connected to the solid drain line. Area drains are installed on the sub-surface and connected to the perforated pipe. With the full French drain system installed, all subsurface water, water that has penetrated into the ground, and all downspout water will be caught before it has a chance to enter into the crawl space or foundation of your home.

Surface Drain Systems This system is designed to catch surface water only. This system consists of one solid 4” PVC pipe with area drains and usually connects down spouts around the perimeter of a home. This system will capture service water and roof water and convey it away from home. These PVC pipes are all glued seam systems. This system is not designed to capture subsurface water or water that penetrates into the ground.

Sump Pumps A sump pump is generally used to pump water out of an area where there is not enough gravity fall to drain itself. A sump pump usually consists of an 18” sump, a debris sump pump, valve box, high water alarm (to alert the homeowner that the water

Tree of the Season Japanese Maples

By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb Japanese maples have an elegance and sculptural quality that resembles dance.

Careful study of their form, in any season, can call the viewer back to the natural world. In winter, the falling leaves raise the curtain on the form of the trunks and put the dance on center stage. Winter rain intensifies the show by adding a sensuality to the movement of stem and bough, one that beckons to even the unpracticed eye. In spring, certain varieties of Japanese maples send out new leaves so bright a green they appear lit from within. In summer, upright cultivars that are well pruned have spaces between the branches, giving the canopy the appearance of being composed of many floating islands. And in fall, Japanese maples mark the change of season by turning colors ranging from yellow to scarlet, depending on the variety of maple; there are many varieties.

Luckily, Japanese maples are relatively easy to grow and relatively tough. In their long evolutionary dance–fossilized maple leaves date back over 60 million years–Japanese maples have developed the genetic information necessary to protect them against most common garden afflictions. They are, however, subject to verticillium wilt, a soil-borne fungal disease that can cause dieback, and sometimes death. There is no known cure for verticillium, but you can decrease the likelihood of your new maple getting the disease if you 1) don’t plant it in ground known to have verticillium, 2) make sure the soil around the tree is well drained so that the roots don’t remain soggy throughout the winter, and 3) protect the tree against environmental stresses by giving it summer water and keeping it well mulched. Maples can grow and remain healthy in gardens with a history of verticillium. If they are not stressed by soils too damp, too dry, or too compacted, some individual maples can thrive even though a near neighbor may die. It depends on the genetics of the individual. If your mature maple shows significant dieback, it may be fighting a case of verticillium. It is not necessarily a death sentence. Some trees succeed in fighting off the disease.

Underfloor Systems

Getting a Good Licensed Contractor Getting a good licensed contractor can make a world of difference when undertaking a household project. The first thing to consider when looking for a good contractor is to make sure that they are licensed with the State of California. The contractor should have their license number printed somewhere on his letterhead or business card. You can go to www.cslb.ca.gov to verify that their license is still valid. Also make sure that the company has liability and Workers Comp insurance. There are several different places that you can check to see if the company has any complaints against them such as State licensing board or BBB. You can also look for companies that belong to Diamond Certified.

The Problem with Hiring Uninsured and Unlicensed Contractors At times it sounds appealing to hire an unlicensed contractor. Their price is generally less, and they quote timeframes that the homeowner wants to hear. The unlicensed contractor does not pay into Workers Comp insurance nor do they carry liability insurance. Thus, they leave the homeowner open to liabilities. If a worker is injured while working on your premises, they can sue the homeowner. In addition, when the unlicensed contractor does not complete the job according to what timeframes or scope of work was agreed upon, the homeowner has no recourse. The unlicensed contractor does not offer a lifetime guarantee on their workmanship or product. Think twice when hiring this type of contractor, and don’t let the price fool you.

Bay Area Drainage, Inc. specializes in drainage for the Lamorinda and 680corridor. Customer satisfaction is our number one priority, and this is proven with our lifetime guarantee on our workmanship. Every aspect of this company takes a very “hands on” approach with our customer from the first phone call to the last walk through. We are the only drainage contractor in the East Bay that is a Diamond Certified company. Please call us at 925-377-9209 for a free estimate. Advertorial You can help them recover by pruning out the deadwood and improving the soil environment by mulching and aerating.

Though some varieties can withstand full sun, Japanese maples do best in part shade. They do not thrive when exposed to the drying effect of constant wind. If you live on an exposed hillside, it is best to plant them in the lee of a larger tree. Dieback in Japanese maple crowns often is the result of too much sun, too much wind, or the even more deadly combination of the two. Maples need water. Keeping them moist throughout the summer and fall, and into the early winter in dry years, will make them happier and more disease resistant.

Pruning, besides benefiting the mental health of the pruner, can enhance the grace of the plant. If your pruner is an artist, removing deadwood and teasing apart the plant’s natural layering opens little windows that reveal and accentuate the tree’s natural form. A well-pruned tree looks as if it hasn’t been pruned.

Paradoxically, it looks more natural after pruning than before. Though it is sometimes necessary to lower the crown of a maple, as when it is beginning to block a treasured view, lowering should be done only when necessary, and the lowering should not be so drastic as to involve topping cuts (see the article on topping). Lowering a maple to gain a view is not something that you can do just once. Pruning down the crown stimulates new growth, and maintaining the view or the size reduction, will require yearly pruning. No matter how good the artist, you can’t make a topped maple look as good as a natural tree.

Much pruning, and therefore expense, can be avoided by planting the right variety in the right place. When planting a new tree, plant a cultivar that won’t exceed the desired height when it matures. This is almost always preferable to containing a variety that will grow beyond the desired size.

It is our hope at Brende & Lamb that the pleasure our clients derive from their well-pruned trees exceeds the considerable pleasure we get from revealing the beauty inherent in their trees.

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 Advertorial work in your neighborhood.

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com Kevin continued from front page

Alamo Today ~ April 2012- Page 21

of invasive plants, and helps to reduce food waste. Feinstein concedes that it is getting more and more difficult to forage, as it is illegal without permission from landowners. In his classes, he invites foraging enthusiasts to join him for guided tours of local edible wild plants in the hills east of the Caldecott tunnel, where participants can sample items that most people don’t know are edible – all with approval from the landowner.

“Kevin is often ahead of the wave, so to speak,” says nature educator Andler. “He tends to already be researching and experimenting with whatever most people will catch onto in a few years.” Andler calls on Feinstein when she needs to identify a plant she’s never seen, or find out about the dangers of a certain pollutant. “He holds so much useful information for us as a society; he really is an amazing resource. He is unique in his knowledge, but also in the fact that he has also lived and truly experienced most of it and is able to teach it in an engaging and effective way.”

Feinstein’s also spends one day a week maintaining the edible garden at Merriewood Children’s Center in Lafayette, where he shares his knowledge and enthusiasm for the natural world with young people. “Our kids benefit greatly from Kevin,” says Mim Bazell, Merriewood’s owner and director.

“He helps them to see the direct impact their actions can have on the environment. Whether it's building a greenhouse out of recycled bottles, mucking out the chicken coop, turning the compost, or pruning trees to help guarantee a fruitful season, Kevin helps the children see that by helping to sustain the land, we ourselves are enriched, or, at least, very, very messy!”

When asked how he practices what he preaches, Feinstein says he promotes the purchase of organic produce and local grass-fed beef. He encourages shopping at local farmer’s markets and buying the best organic fresh foods one can afford. He hopes to one day be able to grow more of his own food and perhaps some day create a foraging park where he can practice regenerative harvesting techniques. “Sustainability is not an option,” says Feinstein. “It’s a necessity.”

For more information about Feinstein’s classes, or to purchase The Bay Area Forager, visit www.feralkevin.com.

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“Life in the Walnut Creek Garden” Fundraiser Saturday, May 5th, 11AM to 4PM John Montgomery Landscape Architects is delighted to announce their third annual Garden Tour Fundraiser presenting gardens exclusively designed by John Montgomery. Celebrate Spring, chat with John, stroll the gardens, enjoy live music, attend demonstrations, and nibble goodies in our outdoor living environments. Proceeds from the sale of tickets benefit The Quincy Lee Foundation, Hospice of the East Bay, and Contra Costa County Guide Dog Raisers, Inc.. To sign up, visit www.jm-la.com and click on Garden Tour. For questions, please contact Debbie at dblumhardt@jm-la.com, or (925) 820-8884.

AAUW Garden Tour The Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek American Association of University Women’s (AAUW) 12th Annual Garden Tour will be held Friday, May 11th and Saturday, May 12th from 10AM - 4PM. Six delightful gardens located in Alamo and Danville will be presented. Landscape designers and expert gardeners will be on hand to share their knowledge.

Tickets are $30 before May 4th and $35 after. Seniors 65+ are $5 less. No children under 12 or pets, please. Mail your check payable to “AAUW Funds” with a business size, self-addressed, stamped envelope to AAUW Garden Tour, PO Box 996, Alamo, CA 94507. Tickets will also be available after April 9th at East Bay Flower Company at 206 Sycamore Valley Rd.W. in Danville with cash or check payment only.

All proceeds go to AAUW Funds, supporting aspiring female scholars. For further information about the tour, email gardentour@aauw.daw.org.

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Page 22 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

An Optimal Approach for Selling Your Business

ing your plan helps clarify whether or not you need to expand the business before selling it in order to get what you want from the deal.

Brought to you by Peter T. Waldron & Robert J. Waldron

Long-term strategic exit planning with specialists can help you objectively determine an appropriate value for your business and can determine ways to enhance value over time. You should choose an industry professional with sales and negotiation experience as your liaison. This person can then manage the advertising, bidding process, and negotiations involved in a sale while keeping this process private.

Ideally, you want to be able to take advantage of favorable market conditions. For example, if you own a chain of sandwich shops and they turn out to be the hot business trend this year, you want to be confident that your sale price takes advantage of bullish market demand.

You will also want to ensure that the timing of the sale complements your longterm goals. While your exit planning specialist may not be able to tell you whether $2 million or $10 million is a good price to fetch for your business, your financial planner can tell you how much money you need to help meet your financial goals.

In conjunction with Waldron Wealth Advisors, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor.

Having a sound business strategy includes having an exit plan in place that prepares you for the sale of your company long before you have to make the transition. Early exit planning gives you the confidence to look for a buyer when the time is right or to weigh buyout offers in relation to your goals. Exit planning early is crucial because it may take one to five years to obtain the best price and close on a sale. You may be motivated to sell your business at different times for a variety of reasons, including: • Market upturns or downturns • Increased competition • Burnout • Changing family needs • A desire to retire Having an exit plan that effectively coordinates with your financial plan enables you to determine if what you can get for your business today will help you meet your long-term financial goals. If you need or want more for your business, you should consider what steps you should take to obtain a favorable selling price.

Having access to a qualified team of advisors will help you objectively value your business, outline your goals for the sale, and keep you on track financially.

Develop a Viable Sales Plan By identifying your goals, you can explore the feasibility, timing, and value of several sales strategies, such as: • Selling everything for one price • Offering to work through several months of transition • Accepting a portion of the sale as a buyout with scheduled payments that provides you with an income over time • Selling part of the business now and keeping the remaining part for a future sale in order to defer taxes • Transferring or gifting part of the business to family members in order to remove it from your taxable estate Once you have a succession plan in place, be sure to re-evaluate it periodically. A succession plan is not something you can prepare and then forget.

It’s important to stay in touch with market influences and current tax laws, in addition to reviewing your changing income and cash-flow needs. Review-

Cinema Classics

By Peggy Horn This month’s film is Absence of Malice (1981), produced and directed by Sydney Pollack and starring Paul Newman and Sally Field.

In this movie, the president of the longshoreman’s union has disappeared and, after six months, the district attorney’s office still has no leads as to his whereabouts.

Consequently, one of the strike force attorneys initiates an inquiry into the life of Michael Gallagher (Paul Newman), an ordinary citizen who has apparent ties to people who could be responsible. The attorney has no evidence that Mr. Gallagher has committed any crime, but he predicts that this inquiry will “squeeze” Gallagher into solving the mystery of the union president’s disappearance in order to absolve himself from suspicion.

Miss Field plays the part of a newspaper reporter, Megan Carter, who gets wind of this story and decides to pursue it because the public deserves to know.

Prior to the story’s publication, Megan consults a lawyer for the newspaper who advises her that Mr. Gallagher is neither a public official nor a public figure, and the truth of the story is irrelevant. The fact that she does not know it to be false – the absence of malice - affords the newspaper protection from a lawsuit, as long as she has done a reasonable and prudent job of reporting. In fact, the lawyer assures her that Mr. Gallagher is powerless to do them harm as long as the rules have been properly observed. Megan will now begin to explore the question that although she can proceed legally with the story, should she? When the story is printed, the consequences to Michael Gallagher are significant, and, although he does not sue, he very cleverly manages to defend his rights - the rights of an ordinary man who has been unfairly accused.

This very interesting movie has a brilliant finish and leaves us with the notion that justice has been done! It was nominated for Academy Awards for best actor, best supporting actress, and best screenplay. It’s available for rental or distribution online.

Getting the Best Price Available

Succession Succession planning is important to maintaining the success and productivity of a business, especially if you’re relying on the business to provide you with an income or ongoing return on your investment. Accordingly, your exit plan should include strategies for transitioning authority, retaining valued employees and key clients, and maintaining day-to-day operations.

If your business involves client services, it may be vulnerable if revenues are sustained by maintaining relationships. In this case, it may be wise to sell your business to a known competitor that has a good track record in your industry.

Work with your exit planning specialist, financial planner, attorney, and tax advisor to select the appropriate strategies for distributing and reinvesting the proceeds of a business sale. Your immediate goals may include reducing your tax liabilities and providing an income to support your changing lifestyle.

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

Peter T. Waldron & Robert J. Waldron Jr. are registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offers investment advisory service through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Waldron Wealth Advisors, 3000 Executive Parkway, Ste 400, San Ramon, CA 94583. Insurance offered through Lincoln affiliates 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. CRN200902-2026204 Advertorial

The Blackhawk Chorus Goes to the Movies!

The Blackhawk Chorus, under the direction of founder Diane Gilfether, presents The Blackhawk Chorus Goes To The Movies, a concert featuring the full 140 member Chorus accompanied by its outstanding jazz quintet. The concert will be presented at 8PM on Saturday, May 5th at the Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Road in San Ramon and at 8PM on Friday, May 11th at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 7557 Amador Valley Boulevard in Dublin.

Who can forget the haunting theme song from Breakfast at Tiffany’s? “Moon River” has become an enduring American standard, recorded countless times in many different genres. Then there’s “The Shadow of Your Smile,” from the movie The Sandpiper starring Elizabeth Taylor and Richard Burton, and the title song from the stage and screen musical 42nd Street. And, who doesn’t remember Marilyn Monroe singing “Diamonds Are a Girl’s Best Friend” in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes? The Blackhawk Chorus movie music program includes a lovely setting of “Somewhere” from West Side Story, while Blackhawk Jazz will perform the signature song and dance number from Dirty Dancing – “I’ve Had the Time of My Life.” Special Blend will perform “Seasons of Love” from the movie Rent. All of this will be topped off with a wonderful medley from The Wizard of Oz and much more.

Tickets for the Dougherty Valley concert at 8PM on Saturday, May 5th are available through the Center’s website at www.sanramon.ca.gov/parks/theater/ or by calling their Box Office at (925) 973-3343. For tickets for the performance at 8PM on Friday, May 11th at Resurrection Lutheran Church, 7557 Amador Valley Boulevard in Dublin, call the church office at (925) 828-1580, Monday – Friday, 9AM to 1PM. The Blackhawk Chorus began in 1991 with 12 women whose dedication to and fondness for music was exemplary. Word spread of the success of the group, and in the following year, men were invited to participate. Now the chorus performs regularly in the East San Francisco Bay Area. The Blackhawk Chorus appeared in the From Sea to Shining Sea concert on March 21 2010 at Avery Fisher Hall in New York City. It leaves for the United Kingdom and Ireland on June 1this year to perform concerts in London, Wales and Ireland. For more information visit www.blackhawkchorus.com.

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

How to Sleep Well Amidst a Growing Fear of Lawsuits

By Robert J. Silverman, Attorney at Law

Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 23

Fine Mexican Dining

A recent article referenced a study showing that during this period of economic instability, the wealthiest American families are increasingly worried about being targets for big lawsuits. Even much more moderately wealthy people share this concern.

Yet, the way many fearful people commonly conduct their personal and financial affairs leaves them unnecessarily vulnerable to the very litigation they fear. So, what are some of these common, dangerous actions and omissions?

• Employing domestic help without proper insurance coverage • Owning real estate investment property in one’s own name • Owning a small business as a sole proprietorship • Having insufficient scope of personal insurance (e.g. home, auto) and/or coverage limits • Serving as a board member or director of a charitable or non-profit organization that does not have sufficient (or any) directors and officers (D&O) insurance • Having no estate planning documents, or poorly or incompletely drafted ones The “first line of defense” for most potential liabilities should be strong, comprehensive personal insurance. Many people, including knowledgeable professionals, In Stone Valley Shopping Center are not well informed about detailed aspects of their P&C (property and casualty) insurance coverage. During our busy lives, insurance often gets the short shrift.

I encourage you to call your insurance agent and schedule a complete review of each insurance policy you own. During this review, identify what additional Enjoy Our Patio Dining policies or coverage you may be advised to purchase. You should do this on a regular basis – perhaps every few years or more frequently as circumstances Monday - Saturday: Lunch and Dinner merit it. Most good agents initiate, or at least welcome, this review process. If Sunday: Dinner only We Offer a Full Bar and Lounge your agent doesn’t, perhaps you should interview another agent.

3168 Danville Blvd, Alamo Margaritas are a House Specialty If you employ domestic help, talk to your insurance agent about “employment practices liability” insurance. If you are a board member or officer of an organization, conduct proper due diligence to make sure the organization has D&O insurance and that it’s sufficient to provide you comfortable protection from personal liability. If you don’t have a personal umbrella insurance policy (which serves to increase the coverage limits of any applicable underlying policies), obtain a quote for one. In general, manage your premiums, deductibles, and limits to ensure optimal coverage at an affordable cost.

If you own real estate investment property in your own name or a sole proprietorship business, you should seriously consider forming a business entity, such as a limited liability company (LLC), to shelter your personal assets (e.g. home and bank/brokerage accounts) from potential liabilities arising out of owning, renting, and/or managing a business or investment property.

No matter how remote liability from your sole proprietorship or investment property seems, the costs and inconvenience of setting up a business entity, such as a corporation or LLC, is typically a minor price to pay for the limited liability (ability to shelter your personal assets) you receive in exchange.

Having no estate planning documents or documents that are poorly or incompletely drafted can cost you or your family in countless ways. For example, I have a current client who is 102 years old (God bless her and her reasonably good health!) who has comprehensive estate planning documents. But when she and her late husband had their attorney at the time prepare a living trust for them, a commonly drafted “spendthrift” provision was not included. In short, a spendthrift provision enables the person(s) who establish a living trust to protect the assets that will be inherited by their loved ones from the potential creditors of those loved ones.

As it happens, my client’s two grandchildren are her primary beneficiaries, one of whom has unfortunately run into difficulties and is defending several lawsuits that could lead to substantial judgments against him. So, I drafted a trust amendment to include a spendthrift provision that will potentially avail my client’s creditorchallenged grandchild approximately one million dollars (his share of the trust) of “inheritance protection.”

A wise man once said (many attribute this statement to Thomas Jefferson) “the price of freedom is eternal vigilance.” The more vigilant you are in taking reasonable steps to protect yourself and your loved ones, the better off you and they will likely be.

Besides being financially prudent, this vigilance just might help you sleep like a baby…

Mr. Silverman is an attorney with Buchman Provine Brothers Smith LLP, 1333 N. California Street, Suite 350, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 944-9700; rsilverman@ sbllp.com. His practice emphasizes Estate Planning, Trust Administration & Probate, Real Estate, and Business. Mr. Silverman offers a free introductory consultation.

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This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax, financial 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.

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Authors for the Arts: It’s a Party and You are Invited!

The Friends of the Danville Library Endowment is sponsoring a party to support Arts Enrichment in the Library, a program for elementary and middle school children based on books and enhanced with hands-on fun activities to promote the enjoyment and understanding of art, music, theatre, and the culinary arts.

The gala will be held Friday, April 20th from 6:30 to 8:30PM in the Valley Oak Room in the Community Center which is located at 420 Front Street in Danville. This enjoyable evening will feature drinks, appetizers, and authors. Meet Anne Perry, bestselling author of the Thomas Pitt Victorian Mysteries, World War I stories, and Christmas Novellas. In addition, meet and chat with California Authors, including Sophie Littlefield, John King, Amy Franklin-Willis, Carol Fowler, and Lewis Buzbee.

Tickets are $45 and available at Rakestraw Books and the Danville Library Bookstore.

Come Taste Our Award Winning Wines!

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Page 24 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

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Alamo Public Safety Fair

By Roger Smith Please join AIA in thanking the following organizations (and their representatives) for participating in our first annual “Alamo Public Safety Fair.”

• American Red Cross – Emergency Services and Aid • CCCounty Community Awareness And Emergency Response Dept • CCCounty Office Of Emergency Services Dept (OES) • CCCounty Sheriff”S Dept.

• Neighborhood Watch Program • Radio Amateur Civil Emergency Services (RACES) • San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District (SRVFPD) • Search And Rescue • SRVUSD Safety Program – Emergency Evacuation Program We also want to thank our local businesses, specifically Extreme Pizza, Papa Murphy’s and Round Table for their generous support in providing refreshments for organization representatives, and ACE Hardware and Dr James Sexton, DVM for their participation in this year’s event.

This event provided attendees with the opportunity to learn about and understand the resources available to our Alamo community as well as the many options available to individuals and families to become better prepared for various types of emergencies.

For example our County’s Office of Emergency Services brought and discussed their Family Preparedness Resource Guide which starts off with the following message, “Our County has at least five active fault systems. The Hayward Fault, which passes through western Contra Costa County, causes the greatest concern.

Scientists have estimated there is a 90% chance that a major earthquake will occur along the Hayward Fault within the next 30 years...The damage caused by a major earthquake will severely restrict communications, transportation and utilities, and will isolate many areas of the county. Emergency Service response personnel will likely be overwhelmed by calls for assistance and unable to respond to many requests during the first three days of the disaster. Do not call 9-1-1 unless you have a real emergency.” The guide continues with, “The ability of individuals, families, and neighbors to help themselves and each other during this time will be crucial to their recovery.”

Fortunately, there are many resources available to residents to help them prepare for an emergency. The Resource Guide has 20 pages of valuable information to assist you and your neighbors in this process. It is important to pre-plan now and meet with your family to discuss the types of disasters that could occur, how to prepare and respond, what to do if you are advised to evacuate, and then to

Vote YES on Proposition 29

By Matthew N. Sirott, M.D., Diablo Valley Oncology I would like to raise awareness of Prop 29, the California Cancer Research Act. Diablo Valley Oncology is one of the major backers in Central Contra Costa County, in coordination with the American Cancer Society. Proposition 29 is a one dollar surcharge on each pack of cigarettes sold in the State.

The purposes of the proposition include: 1. Raising funds for cancer research (and other cigarette related disease, including heart disease). Expected to raise over 600 million dollars yearly, the money is sorely needed as other research funds have dwindled.

2. Saving lives. The California Department of Public Health has reported that the passage of this act will save 104,000 lives.

3. Preventing children from smoking. The California Department of public Health has also estimated that 228,000 kids will stop (or never begin) smoking because of the increased cost. The act also helps kids obtain the tools and access they need to quit.

Proposition 29 has safeguards and accountability. The money will stay in California and go to California based research projects. The dollars cannot be siphoned off for other projects. Administrative costs are limited to 2%. Funding decisions are determined by an independent panel of leading research organizations, public health advocates, cancer researchers and doctors, and cancer survivors.

Arguments against this proposition usually are raised by the “no new

Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 25 practice what you have discussed.

No matter where you are, know how to protect yourself and your family during an earthquake.

Practice taking cover as if there were an earthquake, and learn the safest places in your home or at work.

You should practice getting out of your home as well as your work place. Check to see if the planned exits are clear or if they can become blocked in an earthquake. You should also practice turning off your electricity, water, and gas. Know how to turn off the gas, but do not practice this step. In the event of an earthquake, once you turn off your gas, only your utility company should turn it back on for safety reasons.

Your Home Safety Checklist should include: 1) Identify “safe places” in your home, which may include hallways, doorways, and under large tables and desks.

2) Identify escape routes from home for each family member.

3) Identify a meeting place outside of your home for family members to congregate, should you need to evacuate.

4) Also, pick a place outside of your neighborhood in case you cannot return home.

5) Determine a contact person who can be called outside of the state of California if family members are separated in the event of an earthquake.

6) Make sure all members of the family know the phone number of the contact person.

7) Discuss with family members what steps would be taken by each family member following an earthquake if family members are separated.

8) Review the policy adopted by each of your children’s schools to understand their procedures on the retention or release of students during emergencies.

9) Make a list of all critical identification numbers, such as credit cards, driver’s license, etc. and place these in your safety deposit box 10) Place critical items such as birth certificates, automobile pink slips and insurance policies in your safety deposit box.

Learn First Aid and CPR. Contact your local American Red Cross chapter for information and training.

Stocking up now on emergency supplies can add to your safety, comfort, and ability to survive during, and after, an earthquake. Make sure to store enough supplies to sustain you and your family for at least 72 hours.

AIA wishes to thank all residents that attended our first, annual Alamo Public Safety Fair. taxes” organizations. The proposition is a two-edged sword; either way it cuts to the heart of illness. If smokers continue to smoke, then money is raised for cancer research and treatment. If smokers rebel against the new tax and quit, then the bill is even more successful. Lives are saved and health care costs drop. Nobody HAS to pay this tax!

The major potential losers by passage of the proposition are the big tobacco companies. If passed, cigarette sales are expected to drop significantly. The very powerful tobacco lobby will spend millions of dollars to mislead and misconstrue the purposes of the bill. They will talk about taking money from schools, taking money from existing revenues, the effects on current budgets, and draining funds out of California. Their obfuscation cannot change the bottom line: fewer people will smoke, fewer packs of cigarettes will be sold, and big tobacco profits will drop.

The physicians and staff of Diablo Valley Oncology wholeheartedly support Proposition 29. It is bad for the tobacco companies, but good for the health of all Californians. Lives will be saved, kids and adults will quit smoking, and important research will be funded. Please vote YES on Proposition 29 in June.

Diablo Valley Oncology founded the California Cancer and Research Institute. Located in Pleasant Hill, the cancer center is the largest freestanding, non-hospital based facility in Contra Costa County. The center brings together medical oncology, hematology, radiation, chemotherapy, diagnostic imaging, laboratory, pharmacy, clinical trials and supportive care services – all in one convenient location. The facility provides the latest in technology and therapies – to better serve patients in the community. 925-677-5041 www.DiabloValleyOncology.md.

Advertorial

Page 26 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

Your Personal Nutritionist

By Linda Michaelis, RD. MS. My Housecall with Frank who was Diagnosed with Type 2 Diabetes Let me tell you about my client Frank who recently called very distressed after his doctor diagnosed him with Type 2 Diabetes. He was adamant about reversing his diabetes and working closely with me to learn all he needed to know in as little time as possible. Frank insisted I spend an intensive two days with him.

I met Frank at his home and made an inventory of the foods that he had on hand. I could see that the family was eating too many starches such as Rice-A-Roni, macaroni and cheese, pasta, crackers, chips, granola bars, and high sugar cereals along with a lot of frozen tortellini, ravioli, pizzas, and Hot Pockets in the freezer. Frank said these freezer items were typical quick dinners he had when he came home late. Fruits and veggies were almost non-existent.

Frank, his wife Betty, and I talked about what I saw. I explained his meals at home were too low in protein and fiber and too highly processed. For example, I showed him how his cereals fell short of the goal of 5 grams of protein, 5 grams of fiber, and less than10 grams of sugar per serving, and I recommended substituting Kashi Go Lean cereal or oatmeal. I explained that he must substitute his white flour products with whole grains such as brown rice, whole wheat pasta, sweet potatoes, legumes, and quinoa that I wanted to introduce to him. I realized he just needed me to take him by the hand and put it all together for him.

Our visit to Trader Joe’s was an eye opener for Frank and Betty. I showed Frank all the great vegetables both fresh and steam-in-the-bag as well as precooked beets and lentils. There were also sweet potato fries that made great snacks and sides for dinner. Frank was surprised to see all the ready-made cooked chicken with different choices of seasoning that could be added to salads or sandwiches for lunch. He was excited about the Hebrew National

What’s in Your Easter Basket?

By Monica Chappell Easter is almost here, and families everywhere will be gathering around the dinner table to feast with friends and loved ones. This may not sound like the best time to think about serious food and wine pairings, but if your family is anything like mine, the end of Lent is one of the happiest of days. Whether you’ve given up chocolate, red meat, coffee or even (gasp!) wine for the last 40 days, it’s time to reintroduce yourself. The Easter meal should be a happy occasion, and what better way to enjoy good company than with a little vino at the table? If your family celebrates Passover, wow the crowd with a tasty kosher wine.

www.yourmonthlypaper.com 97% fat free hot dogs that are 40 calories each and taste great with baked beans or sauerkraut on Trader’s whole wheat buns. Frank bought potatoes as we discussed that the family could have a baked potato night and offer different toppings like broccoli or chili with cheese. We discussed the benefits of the 17 Bean and Barley mix, quinoa, precooked brown rice in pouches, whole wheat pasta and couscous that he was willing to try as well as all the great soup like the Roasted Red Pepper soup, Lentil, and Black Bean soups.

Leaving with a full cart we were hungry and went to lunch at one of Frank’s favorite spots in town, Forli’s. He told me his favorite foods, and I made a point to show him how he can enjoy his favorites as long as he balanced his meal with the proper protein, fiber, and carbs. We both ended up ordering calamari steak sautéed in a lemon and wine sauce that came with veggies and roasted potatoes. I explained to Frank that he can have two servings of bread/starch at lunch so he could eat a slice of the great sourdough bread and half of the potatoes. I also suggested that when he comes home late he should order a bowl of minestrone soup or one of Forli’s great salads to-go.

Or, if he wanted a meal he could eat half and take the rest home where he could have a dinner the next late night.

We continued our two day intensive program by (1) reorganizing his pantry according to the food groups, (2) going to Safeway and Costco to discuss his normal purchases there and suggest new items, and (3) going to two other restaurants he frequents with either clients or family to discuss recommended selections for lunch and dinner. We also discussed the need for aerobic exercise at least five days a week for 40 minutes.

It has been over a month since my two-day adventure with Frank, and we have been communicating thru e-mail and phone. Frank got a membership to a gym, and I am glad to tell you that his blood sugars are now averaging 120 without medication which is very close to normal. He is down 10 pounds and feels like a new man.

Linda is located in her office in Alamo. She welcomes your call to discuss your personal nutrition challenges. Please visit www.LindaRD.com for more information, helpful tips, recipes, and Linda’s blog, or call her Advertorial at (925) 855-0150 from Spain or from Provence, France.

I’m happy to welcome spring with a glass of rosé, and as rosé becoming more popular people will discover the joys of drinking pink.

Monica Chappell teaches wine appreciation classes in the East Bay. For a list of classes, go to www.wineappreciation101.blogspot.com.

Configuration continued from page 14 duced below. This list shows a $0.8 million allocation toward a total cost of $4 million for the Ultimate Configuration, and the report describes the Ultimate Configuration as one of three projects that will mitigate traffic from “all new development throughout San Ramon.”4

The Easter Ham Ham is often prepared with glazes or toppings that are sweet and can balance the inherent saltiness of the actual meat. Well-paired wines can accomplish the same objective. If I had to choose but one wine to accompany an Easter ham, I know what I’d choose in a heartbeat. Unfussy rosés are bursting with red fruit flavors and pair with a variety of holiday foods especially Easter ham. Rosé’s flavor profile has enough sweet fruit to balance the salt in the ham and enough acidity to support the combination without compromising the flavor in either the ham or the wine.

Rosé 101 Rosé wines are made from red wine grapes fermented just a short time with their skins. Colors range from light salmon to bright pink to medium-deep rose.

The length of time the juice is in contact with the crushed skins determines not only the final color of the wine, but to a certain extent the amount of tannin extracted from the skins and seeds as well.

A Rosé By Any Other Name Rosé spans the style spectrum. Because rosé refers to the color of the wine, as opposed to a specific grape variety, the wine can be made from a variety of red grapes and their blends, including Mourvédre, Sangiovese, Grenache, Syrah, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Merlot. With the variety of grapes used to make rosé, the character of the wine ranges from light and fruity to medium bodied with hints of tannin. Try rosé wines from California or Italy, but especially

For many years, Alamo citizens have said they do not want the Ultimate Configuration implemented in Alamo. However, the project still “lives” in at least two local government documents – Project #5 of the Alamo AOB list that is attached to the County’s official roads plan and a specific allocation of money to the project in the Southern Contra Costa Regional Fee Fund.

At this writing, the April public meeting of the TWIC is set for Thursday, April 5, 1:30PM, at 651 Pine Street, Room 101, Martinez. Alamo’s representative on the County Board of Supervisors is Gayle Uilkema, 925-335-1046 or gayle@bos.cccounty.us.

(1) www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/index.aspx?nid=383. Click on 2011-2018 CRIPP Part IV, Appendix D, page 1.

(2) www.ccta.net/assets/documents/CTP/Compare_GMP_CvsJ.pdf, page 7, “Develop a Five-Year Capital Improvement Program”.

(3) www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/index.aspx?nid=383. 2011-2018 CRIPP, Part IV, Appendix A, “May 9, 1989 Adoption of the County Road Improvement Policy”.

(4) www.ccta.net/assets/documents/RTMPstatusFinal.pdf#s, page 19, paragraphs 1 and 2, and page 20,Table 8.

Editorial

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 27

Tingling Toes

By Michael Nelson, M.D.

CONTRA COSTA ONCOLOGY

Everyone has had their feet go to sleep at one time or another. Tight snow boots do this to me every time.

The tingling and numbness goes away quickly after I take off my boots though. Patients with peripheral neuropathy have tingling, numbness, and/or burning in their feet constantly. Peripheral neuropathy is a common neurological condition, and unless it becomes painful, most patients will ignore the symptoms.

Peripheral neuropathy, also called neuropathy, is a neurological condition that causes damage to the nerves in our extremities. The peripheral part refers to being outside of the spinal cord. Central neurological diseases involve the brain and spinal cord. Because the nerves in our legs are the longest, symptoms commonly start in our feet. Think of the nerve damage as many potholes in a long stretch of freeway; if it is several miles long, it will start becoming very irritating.

Besides an asleep feeling, which we call paresthesias, there are many different symptoms of neuropathy. There is a lack of feeling, “dead numb,” which represents the most damaged nerves. There is also a burning sensation which we call dysesthesias. I have also heard of tightness like the legs are very swollen, an itching sensation, a sunburned feeling, and also a crawling feeling. Most neuropathies AT CONTRA COSTA ONCOLOGY, we are committed to providing WALNUT CREEK produce similar symptoms in both feet. the highest quality care. Specializing in comprehensive cutting-edge treatment SAN RAMON Mimickers of neuropathy are lumbar programs for all forms of cancer and blood disorders, our nationally recognized CONCORD oncology experts and specialized oncology nurses are dedicated to providing stenosis, restless leg syndrome, and true ROSSMOOR the best possible care experience. We understand the wide array of concerns peripheral vascular disease (poor circulation). and challenges faced by you and your family, so we ensure the most sophisticated DANVILLE Lumbar stenosis, which is pinching of nerves levels of medical oncology and hematology care, while providing you with the in the low back, will normally make a sidecontracostaoncology.com utmost support, compassion, and respect. to-side difference in sensations and will also 925.939.9610 include shooting pain down the leg. Restless leg syndrome is typically an uncomfortable need to move the legs and usually occurs in the evening. Poor circulation produces a truly cold foot with purplish skin and some loss of hair on the foot and lower shin. Cramps are not specific as they can be from nerve damage, electrolyte imbalance, medication side effect, or poor circulation.

Luckily, peripheral neuropathy can be distinguished from these other conditions by a test called an EMG. This is short for electromyography.

It will also include nerve conduction studies. The EMG involves inserting an acupuncture sized needle into the muscle, and the nerve conduction study involves sending a small electrical impulse down the nerve. These tests must be done together. Unfortunately, many patients have been sent for just nerve conduction studies which, by themselves, do not produce accurate results. This is also a complicated test that should be done by a physician, such as a neurologist or rehabilitation doctor, that has had specific training in its use.

There are hundreds of causes of peripheral neuropathy. Proper diagnosis is best performed by a neurologist. As always with a neurological issue, the events related to the start of the symptoms and the nature of the symptoms themselves are extremely important. Possible causes include medications, vitamin deficiencies, autoimmune diseases, alcohol, toxins, and medical issues such as diabetes and renal failure. There are also neuropathies that run in the family such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth. The frustrating part of having a peripheral neuropathy is we frequently do not know the cause. Doctors call this idiopathic, which I always joke is because the doctors are idiots and can’t figure it out.

If you have been putting up with tingling toes for a while, now may be the time to have it properly evaluated. The information contained in this article is for educational purposes only and does not replace proper medical care.

Michael Nelson, M.D. is a board certified adult neurologist who has been serving general neurology patients in the East Bay for the past nine years. His office is located at 970 Dewing Ave, Suite #300 in Lafayette. He can be reached at (925) 299-9022 to schedule and appointment and Advertorial can also be found on the web at www.michaelnelsonmd.com.

With Them

my story Continues.

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Page 28 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

An American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry survey reveals that 92% of adult respondents say an attractive smile is an important social asset.

74% believe an unattractive smile can hurt a person’s chances for a successful career.

More than any other facial feature, a smile can reflect trust, comfort, confidence and the shortest path to reflecting your personality.

Dr Rader is a graduate of the prestigious Las Vegas Institute (LVI), a renowned center for cosmetic,TMJ, and Neuromuscular dentistry. He is one of a few dentists nationwide to complete Full Mouth Reconstruction curriculum at LVI.

925.932.1855 Alex Rader DDS General, Cosmetic, and Neuromuscular Dentistry 1855 San Miguel Dr, Suite 12 • Walnut Creek, CA

www.alexraderdds.com

Spring Back into Summer Shape

By Barbara Persons, MD, Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. With such a mild winter this year, it feels like spring came months ago. In reality, spring arrived on March 22nd, and for many that means the beginning of the season when we start trying to shed the weight gained during the cold winter months. For me it means heading to the gym, walking the Lafayette Reservoir and, new this year, participating in The Dailey Method. We all want to get back into that bathing-suit shape we had at the end of last summer, and I’m no exception.

As always, proper diet and exercise are keys to transforming our bodies into top form. However, every year as we grow older, our skin changes, we can’t metabolize fats like we used to, and we have slightly less muscle mass.

This is why we inevitably begin to see the signs of aging as sagging, wrinkles, and those stubborn little pockets of fat that seem to stay no matter how hard we work out. Add to this any major change in weight such as having a baby, and gravity may have the advantage.

While a healthy lifestyle will always be important in helping to postpone many of the signs of aging, there are ways to play catch up with the help of your Board Certified Plastic Surgeon. Spring is a great time to consider surgical solutions for making your chest, abs and legs summer ready. This is also a great season for considering that Liquid Facelift with Laser Genesis to rejuvenate your look.

The Chest The chest area of both men and women is susceptible to the effects of gravity and time. For women, pregnancy and breast feeding magnify gravity’s effects. The perfect solution for many of these cases is breast augmentation, which can often be combined with a mastopexy (breast lift) that can reverse the course of gravity and return the breast back to a natural youthful position. When combined under the trained hands of a plastic surgeon with either silicone or saline implants, the results can yield that perfect bikini look. For men, the breast becomes a stubborn area for fat deposits that no amount of exercise can fix. In most cases, small amounts of targeted liposuction can be a relatively easy solution. For more stubborn cases, I do have considerable experience with male breast reduction and mastopexy.

Actual patient, smile design by Alex Rader, DDS

Abs The abdomen tends to be one of the most troubling areas for both men and women. Luckily, targeted liposuction is a very effective way to combat stubborn midsections. Like most Plastic Surgeons, I prefer VASER Lipo because it uses LipoSelection®, which targets specific areas of the body and leaves surrounding vital tissues unharmed versus traditional liposuction which can result in lumpy or uneven skin. VASER Lipo (www.vaser.com or see the video vault on our website) is so precise and gentle that patients typically report dramatic reshaping with little downtime. Sometimes the effects of pregnancy and childbirth can be so demanding on a women’s body that simple liposuction is not enough and a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) may be the right choice.

Legs Inner and outer thighs, hips, knees and buttocks, are also very common areas for those difficult to lose fat deposits to settle. Our high definition VaserLipo is the ideal solution for dealing with these deposits of fat. This body contouring procedure produces natural looking results with minimal downtime.

Face Sagging, dull skin on the face and neck are obvious signs of aging. Full correction involves combining a Laser Genesis treatment, neurotoxins and fillers. This “Liquid Facelift” can cost around $1,600 and lasts six to 24 months depending on the filler used. Combine this with ongoing quality skin care including good sunscreen, and gravity will have to wait much longer to claim victory.

As we prepare for upcoming bathing suit weather, I see many of you taking the most important steps in fighting this battle through proper diet and exercise.

I look forward to becoming an additional valued resource by seeing you in my office for a personal and highly-tailored consultation on those problem areas that diet and exercise alone can’t fix. Let’s spring back into shape and have our bodies ready for the perfect summer!

Barbara L. Persons, MD is a Board Certified 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@personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

Acne

By Dr. Shanny Baughman Let’s talk about acne, that pesky skin condition that shows up even if you aren’t a teenager. Acne occurs primarily during teen years, but pre-teens and adults also have breakouts.

At least 20% of acne occurs in adults, mostly in women.

Acne is the result of excess oil production, triggered by androgens (male hormones), causing hair follicles to fill with oil. Excess skin cells block the release of oil. This oil plug, or whitehead (closed comedone) or blackhead (open Dr. Shanny Baughman, Alamo comedone), enlarges and expands, providing abundant nutrition for bacteria living on our skin. An overgrowth of normal skin bacteria triggers inflammation leading to red bumps (papules), pimples (pustules), and deep painful cysts (nodules). While hormones and genetics are major causes of acne, vigorous exercise, sweating, mechanical rubbing from a sweat band, and stress also contribute.

Chocolate, French fries, and pizza do not cause acne.

Daily Acne Care Cleanse your face twice daily with a gentle cleanser. Avoid cleansers with abrasive beads. They are too harsh and can damage your skin. If your skin is oily, wash once daily with a 2 ½% benzoyl peroxide or a 2% salicylic acid wash.

Benzoyl peroxide destroys the build-up of skin bacteria and salicylic acid helps unplug pores. Don’t over-wash your face as you will remove natural oils, triggering inflammation and a backlash of excess oil production.

Spot treatments help dry up an acne lesion. Consider Neutrogena ‘On the Spot Acne Treatment’ or 2% salicylic acid gel.

A light moisturizer at night actually helps minimize skin oil production. Apply a small amount to the delicate crease by your nose and to your lateral cheeks.

Products labeled ‘non-comedogenic,’ ‘non-acnegenic,’ or ‘oil free,’ should be tolerated by your skin. An oil-free sunscreen applied in the morning should protect without clogging your skin.

Avoid These Acne Mistakes DON’T touch your face frequently without thoroughly washing your hands.

That can add extra residue and oil to your skin.

DON’T rest your phone on your cheek, as that may cause more acne.

In Case You are in an Auto Accident

By Drs. Jerry and Malia Kenny, Kenny Family Chiropractic An auto accident, whether major or minor, is a traumatic affair. While it is our hope that you would not be involved in anything as traumatic as an auto accident, we hope this list will be of use to you if you ever find yourself in such an unfortunate circumstance. More than instructions to follow, these are guidelines of what needs to be done.

First and foremost, don’t panic. Most auto accidents are abrupt, fast events.

Hence, it is not easy to remain calm. By panicking, you may only increase the chance of hurting yourself or another person due to a lack of clarity. Especially during an auto accident or immediately after, you need to be in the right frame of mind to deal with the repercussions. So, panic is a no-no.

Next, check to see if you and any co-passengers are all right. Check not only for injuries (whether superficial or deep) but also for trauma (both physical and emotional).

Because an auto accident is a highly traumatic event, you and your co-passengers may suffer varying degrees of trauma. Identifying the trauma and informing the medical professionals in advance may very well save a life. So, check thoroughly.

Next, it might be a good idea to step out of your vehicle to check the extent of the damage, but only do this in safe situations. Calmly examine the damage caused to both your vehicle and the other vehicle. Although it is difficult to rein your emotions in, try to stay calm and evaluate the damage. As most cell phones nowadays come with built-in cameras, try and capture a photograph of the damage on the spot. This will prove to be useful at a later stage.

Check on the driver and passengers of the other vehicle. Don’t confront them and make the entire episode a blame game. Treat each other with calmness and respect, and wait for the authorities to arrive at the scene. While waiting, you can both examine the damage suffered and reach a consensus.

Next, if you suspect any injury, even the most minor one call the police and have a formal report written. Because most of us are in shock immediately after an accident and don’t realize the extent of the injuries until days or possibly weeks

Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 29 DON’T use hair oils, and DON’T forget to wash your hair daily, as breakouts on the forehead may be worse.

DON’T squeeze, fiddle with, pop, or pick at your acne - it won’t heal any more quickly, but it could scar.

DON’T fall for ‘miracle cures.’ They just don’t work, despite the convincing testimonials and photos.

DON’T use too many products at a time. Stick with a cleanser, an acne product, and moisturizer. Using a myriad of products won’t clear your skin up more quickly.

Emergency Acne Help When a large acne bump develops, try this to help Dr. Kelly Hood, Lafayette calm it down. Assemble a ‘ZIT KIT’ - a clean washcloth, warm water, 2% salicylic acid gel, Aquanil HC or another lotion containing 1% hydrocortisone, an ice cube, and two cotton swabs.

First apply a warm washcloth to the area, and leave in place for 8 minutes. This will help the pimple come to a head. Next, apply a spot treatment of 2% salicylic acid to the area. If a whitish center is seen, apply gentle pressure on each side of the pimple to help it open up and drain. If nothing happens at first, don’t squeeze harder. You don’t want to damage your skin. Don’t use your fingers either. Lastly apply an ice cube for one minute, then reapply the salicylic acid and a cover-up.

When to See a Dermatologist If your acne doesn’t respond to cleansing, benzoyl peroxide, and salicylic acid, visit a dermatologist. Stronger medication can be prescribed, or a small corticosteroid injection can shrink a large, painful acne lesion. In-office treatments can kill skin bacteria and help improve acne. Improvement in acne may take up to eight weeks, so during that time just keep on with your regimen of cleaning and applying the topical medication. After acne pimples clear up, there may be a pink or purplish area left behind. That is not a scar, just residual inflammation. It takes about six more weeks to fade, so continue to apply your acne medication.

To have your skin evaluated by a board certified dermatologist and have a treatment specifically designed for your skin, contact Dr. Shanny Baughman at Alamo Oaks Dermatology, 3189 Danville Blvd, suite 130, Alamo, 925-362-0992, shanny.derm@gmail.com or Dr. Kelly Hood, 970 Dewing, Suite 301, Lafayette, 925-283-5500, khoodderm@yahoo.com.

Advertorial later, it is very important to have a formal report written. This will prove very helpful later when the insurance companies help determine who is at fault.

When the police arrive at the scene of the auto accident, calmly and in a composed manner explain what happened. Do limit your statement to facts alone, as any blame or fault discussions at this stage will not lead to an accurate representation of the facts. Even if it is a minor auto accident, ask to file an on-the-spot report. Do not leave the scene of the auto accident until the report has been filed.

Before the police and the other party disperse from the scene of the auto accident, do remember to get all the necessary details from them. Collect all the names, numbers, report details, license and insurance numbers, and other such critical details when most of the people are present at the scene of the auto accident. These will not only help you in filing your insurance claim, but it will also be useful in cases where follow-up with the affected party is required. If possible, also get any witnesses names and contact information which may be very important at a later time.

Finally, call your insurance agent and file a report/ accident claim. Give them all the information you have collected including other driver’s information, license number, the license plates of all vehicles involved, and the police report number.

This preliminary information will go a long way in determining the extent of insurance claim you can make.

If you suspect that you are injured from the auto accident, consult with a medical professional as soon as possible. Often times, we find that auto injuries don’t have visible symptoms until later. Unexplained headaches, stiffness, soreness, and other aches and pains can all be attributed to the auto accident. After all, it is a traumatic event for your body.

Feel free to contact our office anytime if you do have questions or concerns about possible auto injuries.

We specialize in these types of traumatic events to your body, and we will be here for you any time. We offer Acute Physiotherapy, Laser Therapy, and Massage Therapy as well as Acute Chiropractic Care.

A complimentary consultation and 24-7 trauma care is available.

Please contact Dr Jerry Kenny, Dr. Malia Kenny, or Dr. Mahsa Khodabakhsh at 925-838-9355 or stop by our office at 185 Front St, Suite 107 in Danville. Visit our website at kennychiro.com.

Advertorial

Page 30 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

The Eye Opener

By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry Vision and Sports As we are entering spring, sports and other outdoor activities are in full swing. The two main things that need to be addressed to ensure an enjoyable time are vision and safety. However, depending on the activity, these are not mutually exclusive. I will discuss some options to help you fully enjoy your sports and outdoor activities.

The key to enjoying your sport of choice is being able to see well.

Whether you play golf, baseball, tennis, or target shooting, vision is an integral part of the game. It doesn’t matter how good you are. If you can’t see down the fairway or pick up the spin on the ball while batting or while hitting tennis balls, you will never reach your full potential and will be continually frustrated. Depending on your correction and motivation, several options are available to you.

Assuming the interest and motivation is there, contacts are an option for a wide array of prescriptions and wearing schedules. For those who only want to wear contacts for outdoor activities, weekends, skiing, etc., daily disposables are probably your best option. These lenses allow for one-time use and are comfortable because they are thin and don’t have any build-up on the lenses. You will put them in the trash at the end of the day. They come in a wide variety of prescriptions including those for an astigmatism.

Depending on your age, your up-close vision with these lenses will need to be addressed, but this type of lens allows for good vision with no fuss.

In fact, because of the economical prices, comfort, and vision, these lenses are popular for full-time wear for a lot of my patients.

www.yourmonthlypaper.com Obviously, contact lenses are not for everyone. For those of you who cannot wear contacts because of comfort or prescription, glasses or prescription sunglasses are still a very good option. Depending on the sport or activity, a good wrap frame with clear lenses or polarized sun lenses might be a good option. For daytime sports, a sports sun frame from Maui Jim or Oakley can be made in a wide range of polarized prescriptions including progressive lenses. For those of you who do not like sunglasses, a smaller and lighter frame with a little wrap can accomplish your goal of comfort and vision during your game. Either way, we can make the lenses in polycarbonate, which will give impact resistance for those sports such as tennis and baseball where eye injuries are a possibility.

Besides vision, the other component that needs to be discussed with sports is safety. If you are wearing glasses, the lenses should be made out of polycarbonate when there is any risk of trauma. For even better coverage, Rec Specs are a great option. These frames and goggles fit closely to the face so there is a very low risk of the frame coming apart and injuring the eye if an accident should happen. Rec Specs are made in child and adult sizes with several color options, and most have an elastic strap to ensure a good fit.

Regardless of your activity or sport of choice, there are several possible ways to enhance your enjoyment. It might be a good pair of polarized sunglasses for water sports and fishing, or contact lenses for your baseball games or golf outings. Next time you are in the office, we can discuss your possibilities with you.

Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at 820-6622 or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165 in Alamo. Visit our newly updated website at, www.alamooptometry.com, and become a fan on our Alamo Optometry Facebook page.

Advertorial

What’s the Buzz for April?

Hospice of the East Bay Estate Sale Service

Buzz Sessions are the buzz on topics and issues facing today’s older adults. Join us to talk with the experts. Sessions are held in the Danville Library’s Mt. Diablo Room. Visit www.danville.ca.gov or call (925) 3143400 for more information. Buzz Sessions are always free!

After the death of a loved one, dealing with the entire contents of a home and a life time of possessions can be overwhelming.

Hospice of the East Bay Estate Sales (HEB Estate Sales), formally known as Diablo Appraisal and Estate Sales, is an estate sale and liquidation service that manages and coordinates your entire estate and provides you with a tax benefit by sharing the profits from the sale with Hospice of the East Bay. We provide caring and trained professionals that can help you handle the entire process making the seemingly impossible, attainable.

We will assess each item’s value, advertise the sale through multiple channels, organize and display your estate items, provide security before, during, and after the sale, run the estate sale smoothly and professionally, take unsold items to Hospice of the East Bay thrift stores, and provide with a tax deductible receipt for those items, clear out the house at the end of the sale, and leave the house empty and ready for cleaning.

Everything will be handled for you, and best of all you won’t even need to be present! Families are provided with guaranteed honest, efficient, and reliable service.

HEB Estate Sales was established in 2001 for families requesting help selling the contents of their homes. Funds generated from the sale help benefit the patients and families in the care of Hospice of the East Bay. Please call Patricia Wright at (925) 887-5678 or email her at patriciaw@hospiceeastbay.org for further information.

Established in 1977, Hospice of the East Bay is a not-for-profit agency that helps people cope with end of life by providing medical, emotional, spiritual, and practical support for patients and families, regardless of their ability to pay.

Nursing Homes Need to be Person-Centered On Tuesday,April 10th from 9AM - 10AM join Stan Husted, Nursing Home Volunteer & Board Member, California Culture Change Coalition as he discusses how nursing homes are changing slowly from institutionalized care to a culture of providing a quality of life with dignity, choices, privacy, and enjoyment for residents. As consumers we can accelerate the change by knowing what questions to ask and what to do.

Bone up on Bone Health On Tuesday, April 17th ~ 9AM - 10AM come learn about Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis. Dr. Asha Bajaj will give a talk on medication, modalities, and myths of Osteoporosis and Osteoarthritis.

Hearing Loss Association

Lic# 1100014354; Bay Area Entertainment

Come to meetings of the Diablo Valley Chapter of Hearing Loss Association of America at 7pm on the 1st Wednesday of the month at the Walnut Creek United Methodist Church located at 1543 Sunnyvale Ave., Walnut Creek Education Bldg., Wesley Room.

Meeting room and parking are at back of church. All are welcome.

Donations accepted. Assistive listening system is available for T-coils, and most meetings are captioned. Contact: HLAADV@ hearinglossdv.org or 925.264.1199 or www.hearinglossdv.org.

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

Cancer Support Community The following class will be held at Cancer Support Community located at 3276 McNutt Avenue in Walnut Creek.

The class is free, but reservations are required. For information, call (925) 933-0107.

Cancer Survivorship 101 Saturday, April 21 ~ 10 AM – Noon This is an introduction to post-treatment recovery and beyond. Learn how to create a summary of your treatment and map out a care plan for your recovery. You will leave empowered with the tools to improve your quality of life and achieve a greater sense of well-being.

Patients and support people are welcome.

With Shell Portner, RN, Survivorship Nurse Navigator at John Muir Cancer Institute and also a cancer survivor.

Alamo Today ~ April 2012 - Page 31

CONCIERGE MEDICINE A New Level of Medical Care Personalized and Responsive s 0RACTICE LIMITED TO PATIENTS (traditional practices have 2000+ patients) s %XTENDED UNHURRIED OFlCE VISITS s ACCESS TO $R 0ARSONS VIA PERSONAL CELL PHONE s 3AME DAY OR NEXT DAY APPOINTMENTS s #OMPREHENSIVE MEDICAL EVALUATION s $EDICATED SUPPORT STAFF s -EDICARE ASSIGNMENT ACCEPTED

DONALD S. PARSONS, M.D. Diplomate, American Board of Internal Medicine

925-855-3780 400 El Cerro Blvd., Suite 102, Danville www.danvillemd.com

Calling all Instructors!

The Town of Danville Seniors Services division is looking for qualified instructors to offer classes for adults 55 years and over at the newly renovated Veterans Memorial Building which is set to open early 2012. If you have the knowledge and skills to teach nutrition, health and fitness, language, craft, and/or hobby classes to adults over 55, you are encouraged to submit a proposal. Classes will be offered at various times including early evenings and weekends.

For more information on how to become a Town of Danville instructor, please contact Jenn Overmoe, Program Coordinator for Senior Services by email at jovermoe@danville.ca.gov or by phone at (925) 314-3491.

Document Shredding Fundraiser A document shredding fundraiser will be held Saturday, April 21st from 1-3pm. This annual event is sponsored by Diablo Valley Oncology and raises money for the Cancer Support Community (formerly the Wellness Community). Bring old tax returns, business records, bank statements, cancelled checks, credit card statements, bills, receipts, and other documents containing personal information to our event, make a charitable donation, and ‘SHRED WORKS’ will shred your documents on the spot! The event will be held at the California Cancer and Research Institute located at 400 Taylor Blvd, Pleasant Hill. For information, call 925-677-5041.

Our mission is to provide personalized care, help maintain independence and enhance our client’s quality of life on a daily basis. • Free in-home assessments • Regular home visits ensure the right care plan • Hourly care for you • Live-in care • Fully bonded and insured • Geriatric care mgmt. • Elder referral and placement

Heartfelt & Supportive At All Times...

3645 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Suite D Lafayette, CA 94549

www.excellentcareathome.com

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FOR RENT

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(beside Trader Joe’s)

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CONDO VACATION RENTAL Mauna Lani Resort, Big Island. New luxury 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath condo on 4th fairway. Minimum 3 night stay. Contact Alamo owners for discounted rate. (925)381-7042 Alamomgt@usa.net

925-284-1213

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HELP WANTED

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Is Food a Problem for You? Overeaters Anonymous offers a fellowship of individuals who, through shared experience and mutual support, are recovering from compulsive overeating. This is a 12-step program. The free meetings are for anyone suffering from a food addiction including overeating, under-eating, and bulimia. The group meets Wednesdays at 6PM at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Lafayette. Visit www. how-oa.org for more information.

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LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WITH EXPERIENCE to clean my small (8x8) backyard chicken coop in Alamo once a month. Call Robin, (925)819-9094.

Alamo Today Classifieds R e a c h o ve r 6 , 3 0 0 h o m e s a n d b u s i n e s s e s i n A l a m o - H e l p Wa n t e d, Fo r S a l e, S e r v i c e s, Le s s o n s, Pe t s, R e n t a l s , Wa n t e d , Fr e e b i e s . . . $ 3 5 fo r u p t o 4 5 w o r d s . $ 5 fo r e a c h a d d i t i o n a l 1 5 w o r d s . R u n t h e s a m e c l a s s i f i e d ad in our sister papers“Lafayette Today�or“Danville Today News�at half off!

Send or email submissions to: 3000F Danville Blvd #117, Alamo 94507 or editor@yourmonthlyp a p e r. c o m . Pa y m e n t b y c h e c k m a d e o u t t o “ T h e E d i t o r s� m u s t b e r e c e i v e d b e f o r e a d w i l l p r i n t .

Your cancelled check is your receipt. We reserve the right to reject any ad. _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ _______________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ Name_________________________________________ Address__________________________________________ # of Words_______________ Phone________________________________________ Email ____________________________________________________________________

Page 32 - April 2012 ~ Alamo Today

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The Combs Team Professionals You Can Count On

Nancy

Joe

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925- 9 8 9 - 6 0 8 6 www.TheCombsTeam.com Alamo Real Estate Review: Rocket Start in First Quarter 2012 This month, I thought we might take a look at first quarter 2010 thru 2012 in Alamo and see what sense we can make of the numbers. I believe the rainy season last spring depressed the 2011 first quarter numbers so as to make comparison less relevant than to the first quarter of 2010. Although I wasn’t so certain at the time, we can now be reasonably assured that the 1st quarter 2011 nose-dive was an anomaly. However, for the record the direct comparison between 2011 and 2012 first quarter shows a 25% increase in average price. Pssssst! I wouldn’t mention it to the County Assessor.

Alamo 1st Qtr Review Jan1-Mar 25* Homes Units Sold DOM $$ AVG $$ Median Avg. Sq. Ft. 2010 30 104 $ 1,138,496 $ 1,050,000 3,348 2011 18 39 $ 938,385 $ 889,000 2,688 2012 44 90 $ 1,172,596 $ 1,080,000 3,212 % Chg. 15% -13% 3% 3% -4% *Includes Multi-Family and Detached Homes

$$ Sq. Ft. $ 340 $ 349 $ 365 7%

Although a 25% increase in value is a bit beyond belief, the early 2012 selling season in Alamo has taken off like a rocket. A total of 44 homes have sold so far. This means forty-seven percent more homes sold during the first quarter of 2012 than sold during the same time period in 2010 and this represents a unit sales number that is 144% greater than last year. More importantly average price increased by 3% over 2010 and so did median price. The below $1 million dollar average price paid in the first quarter of 2011 can be largely ignored as by the end of the year this aberrant number reverted more closely to the mean.

The goofiness of the 2011 spring sales numbers highlights an important reason we look at dollars paid per square foot as a method of anchoring our notion of value.

Neither average price nor median price effectively captured the size discrepancy among the homes that actually sold while dollars paid per square foot measure did. Despite

the seasonal aberration of average and median sales price we previously noted, we observe a solid rise in dollars paid per square foot in each of the three time periods, growing from $340 in 2010 to $349 in 2011 to $365 dollars in early 2012.

Most notably there has been a 7% increase in price paid per square foot since 2010.

There was a modest rise in square foot value in 2011 of about 2.5% and what appears to be an accelerating increase of about 4.6% in 2012. Ten of the 44 homes sold in 2012 sold for more than $400 per square foot and one commanded $572.

All things equal, this has to be the most encouraging sign of a solid and sustainable Alamo Market turnaround we have yet observed. Knock on wood!

Pending sales are impressive with a total of 55. The average list price for the current pending sales is $1,232,368. The pending square foot price is sitting at $353 per square foot or well above 2010 and ’11 prices. This is encouraging, but under the surface we discover that 19 or 34% of these pending sales are “Subject to Bank Approval” which means they are short sales or bank owned properties. Distressed properties accounted for 43% of last year’s pending sales, so while not great this decreasing number may also represent an improving condition.

Inventory remains at historically low levels with only 50 active listings for sale at this time. That’s about 3.4 months worth of inventory assuming our current average unit sales rate. Three to six months inventory is considered a normal market, so Alamo is on the low side of the green zone. Average price asked among active listings is $2,024,576, and the average price per square foot asked is $439.

Assuming the economy cooperates reasonably well, this year might easily be remembered as the year Alamo Real Estate began a solid turn around.

It’s important to remember that 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, please give me a call 925-989-6086 or send me an email joecombs@thecombsteam.com.

Three Large Lots for Sale

Westside Alamo Single Story

Alamo Custom Luxury Home

Three large lots for sale by different owners.

1.2 acres with utilities at street, 7.93 acres, and 12.87 Acres. Call for details.

Perfect throughout. 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath.

Huge outdoor entertainment area and pool. $1,450,000.

Exquisite 5 bedroom 4.5 bath custom luxury home on level .5 acre lot. Custom pool and spa! Eye popping, mouth dropping, Wow! Appeal. $2,285,000.

Custom Luxury Contemporary

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El Pintado Loop

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Dramatic, one-of-a-kind luxury home with amazing views!

2 bedroom 2 bath townhome with great views in a gated community. Updated granite and stainless kitchen, patio, attached garage. $540,000

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

Amazing executive estate. 3.1 acres, 5,000 sq. ft., pool, barn, 5 car garage. $2,395,000. We represented the buyer. We have more buyers.

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