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November 2012 East Bay Sea Serpents
Serving Alamo and Diablo By Fran Miller
One of the area’s most highly regarded swimming programs is the result of serendipity. Several years ago, Special Olympics volunteer Joleen Silverfoote was helping at a basketball game when a fellow volunteer suggested she start a Special Olympics swim team. With no formal swim training, Silverfoote found the suggestion a little crazy. “But after several weeks of being cajoled, I would say the stars lined up all at the right time,” says Silverfoote. Eleven years later, the East Bay Sea Serpents swim program meets every Sunday afternoon at the Campolindo High School Soda Center, serving Special Olympicsregistered athletes primarily from the Lamorinda area and Diablo corridor. A large pool of volunteers, mostly students from the area’s high schools, runs the program. There is no cost to the athletes who range in age range from 6 to over 40.
Sea Serpent volunteer coaches Evan Wentzel (left) and Jack Garrett (far right) assist Kevin, a Sea Serpent athlete participating in the learn-to-swim program. Photo by Deanna Wentzel
“I never thought Sea Serpents would be a success,” says Silverfoote, a Moraga resident whose three grown daughters all participated as coaches. “But the program continues to be a win/win for both the athletes and our volunteers who are mostly high school swimmers and water polo players. They get as much, if not more, out of their experience as the participants do, and our athletes get the pleasure of working with teens they consider peers, to build not only swimming skills, but also pride, self esteem, confidence, and acceptance.”
See Sea Serpents continued on page 26
Thankful for Our Parks: They Nearly Never Happened By Jody Morgan Osage Station Park is a kaleidoscope of shifting patterns on a sunny fall Saturday as teams of girls and boys of various ages maneuver soccer balls on multiple fields of play. Witnessing a similar scene at Sycamore Valley Park last year while watching her grandson’s Livermore team competing in the Valley-wide soccer tournament, Sandy Myers recalls, “I overheard a discussion about how awful it was that Danville didn’t have more soccer Oak Hill Park’s All Wars Memorial Honors American
See Parks continued on page 25 Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA
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Alamo Tree Lighting Festival Mark Your Calendars for Sunday, December 2nd The Alamo Chamber of Commerce will present the 2012 Alamo Tree Lighting Festival from 4:30-6:30pm, Sunday, December 2nd. The festival signals the beginning of the holiday season with an evening of caroling, entertainment, beverages, and crafts. Opening the program will be our new Supervisor, Candace Anderson. Students from local schools, elementary through High School, will then be performing some beautiful holiday songs sure to get us all in the spirit! Santa will be ready to hear the desires of the little ones and a photographer will snap a great picture to share. You can download a photo from his website for FREE or order professional prints from him. This year, Santa will arrive early and be ready at 4:45pm for pictures so all kids will have a chance to share their Christmas wishes. Fun arts and crafts will be available, various organizations will be represented, and beverages will be provided by local civic groups. Also participating is local community organization, Shelter, Inc. This amazing group is dedicated to help prevent homelessness and promote self-sufficiency among Contra Costa residents. It is an independent, charitable, nonprofit organization founded in 1986. They will be collecting money to buy toys for families in our area who cannot afford such treats for the holidays. There will be barrels set up for the Contra Costa Food Bank to collect non perishable items such as canned or boxed goods starting several days before in Alamo Plaza and will also be available the night of the event. If you are interested in helping with monetary donation or for more information, visit www.AlamoChamberofCommerce.com. We look forward to seeing everyone out to celebrate and to making this a fabulous and memorable event!!
On-ramp/Off-ramp Project Finally Beginning By Al Makely, Alamo Rotary For the past two years the Rotary Club of Alamo has been planning and working with Caltrans for permission to landscape and beautify the area around the on/ off ramps of I-680 and Stone Valley Rd. Construction on I-680 has prevented the project from starting earlier, but Rotary Volume XII - Number 11 has finally received permission, and work 3000F Danville Blvd. #117, will soon begin. The first phase of the projAlamo, CA 94507 ect will be extensive landscaping along Telephone (925) 405-NEWS, 405-6397 Fax (925) 406-0547 Stone Valley Rd. on both the west and east Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher sides of I-680. The goal is to get this area Editor@yourmonthlypaper.com planted, weather permitting, by the end of Sharon Burke ~ Writer November. In the Spring of 2013 Rotary sburke@yourmonthlypaper.com will also be decorating the green PG&E The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do not necessarily reflect that of Alamo Today. Alamo Today boxes alongside Stone Valley Rd. is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising
See Rotary continued on page 23
herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.
Page 2 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
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Boulevard View By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor My mother was a list maker, I am a list maker, and my kids are list makers. I was trained early. When I was growing up, there was often a “to do” list written with a black Flair pen on a 3x5 index card. Every day, mom taped the card to the window right by the door so we’d see it each time we went out. Mom used the list to keep her five kids on schedule and to make sure things like taking out the trash, handing in school forms, and vacuuming and mopping the floors (making sure we used at least five buckets of water for the mopping job) got done. “The List” was as much a part of our lives as eating and sleeping. Lists give us something to do, something to remember, something to think about, or something to be thankful or grateful for. And, they can also be a lot of fun. Over several summers my daughter and I participated in a family scavenger hunt that had a list of several hundred things to find or do. Scavenger hunts are great games for those that like to tackle lists! This hunt included things you knew you’d seen somewhere, but couldn’t quite put your finger on where. When you found the item, proof was made in the form of a picture or phone-video of the item or event, and an then an upload was posted to a Facebook account. It was a blast. Some of the tasks included, “Find a pigeon pecking at a pizza crust,” “Find a wacky wavy inflatable arm man,” and “Find a man pushing a shopping cart filled with items that are higher than his head.” They weren’t at all impossible, but you had to be really observant, get creative in the interpretation of the requirement, and always keep your list at hand! A friend has recently been posting a “Gratitude List” on her Facebook wall. This is not a bucket list of things to do or accomplish (like my son has; supposedly we will be roasting a whole pig in our backyard for Christmas?!). Rather, it’s a list of things to be thankful for and things that invoke the senses such as: music with memories, food for my table, warm PJs, talking with my daddy, a few goals reached, patience, iced tea in a mason jar, friendships, laughing boys, autumn smells, silence, dinner with friends, the smell of rain, warm tea, and work to keep busy. Every week she adds another five or so items to the
list. It’s a great, public reminder of the things that keep her grounded in her life, and it resonates with her friends who follow her posts. In a email written 15 years ago, my mother noted some of her favorite things. She mentioned flannel sheets in winter, and light, fluffy, cuddly warm down comforters. The note went on reflecting on a treasured alpaca blanket that was brought from South America in the early 1900s by her grandfather. She commented, “It was my mother’s for many years, and she gave it to me. It is now getting thin and threadbare, but I love it. It is warm and makes me feel secure, and I have used it since I was a small child.” Further on she included a list of her favorite things she jotted down as a teenager – a vegetable garden, white fences, baked potatoes roasted in coals, watching a snail eat a blade of grass, the outside layer of a roasted marshmallow, views from high places, a train’s whistle, the roar of the sea, people with no prejudices, good hot soup, the muscles of a running horse, a hot bath and hearty dinner after a day at the beach, the smell of vanilla or strawberry bark, the moon over the rim of a mountain, a firm handshake, talking to older people about their childhood, big puffy white clouds, eating freshly roasted pumpkin seeds, the toothless grins of babies, clean sheets, exploring caves, riding in a bumpy jeep, sprouting avocado seeds in glass jars, a thunderstorm on the desert, fresh baked cookies, and secret places. My lists are plentiful and endless. My husband and I have businesses to run, a house to care for, and our own plans and aspirations. My husband didn’t grow up with lists, so the list-making process isn’t as automatic for him, but he loves the final ‘check-off’ when a task has been completed (don’t we all?). Last weekend we sold two cars that had been sitting in our driveway, and these were a direct result of being listed and acted upon. It felt great. Something happens when we write these lists. We’re committing our heretofore hidden thoughts to a physical, tangible medium. We’re expending the effort to become clear in our intent and to communicate it to others. Lists cause action, and lists motivate people. Lists are plans, and the person with the best plan usually wins. Therefore, list-makers are usually winners who have taken the superb and glorious step of converting thought into action, and they’re the folks around you who are probably getting everything done. Thanks mom!
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 3
Alamo ~ Fabulous 1 level estate on over .75 acre. 100% usable. Circular driveway, 4 car gar + RV pkng. Fountain, koi pond, waterfalls, 1000 sf patio w/built in BBQ, 2 creeks, park like setting yd w/ gorgeous oaks, well for irrigation. Marble floors, alabaster walls & floors, granite counters, Mahogany walls, walls w/wood from Africa, 3 fireplaces, Swarvoski Crystal Chandeliers. $ 1,675,000
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Alamo ~ New Construction, Selected by Jr. League Oakland-East Bay as “Artful Living Tour Home� Nov 2,3. Interior by J. Hettinger. 6 bed, 5.5 bath, incredible Views from most every room and amazing ambiance. Charming and Elegant, all inspired with good taste and fine craftsmanship. Large lot, 3 fireplaces, and 3 car garage. A must see! $2,373,000
Michael Hatfield 925.984.1339 michael@alamoluxuryhomes.com
Danville ~ Custom single story within walking distance to schools and town. Some updating....Huge family room. Large side yard with workshop or storage unit pool size backyard. Dual pane windows....Wood vaulted ceilings in living room...2 wood burning fireplaces. Virtual Tour @ gretchenbryce.com $929,000
Danville ~ 131 Montair Court, Gated Estate 4 Bedrooms 4 1/2 Baths plus bonus rooms. 3 car garage, 6064 sq ft, remodeled to perfection. This home sits at the top on Montair Ct. with breathtaking views of Mount Diablo. Pool, out door kitchen, wine cellar, lake with waterfall all on 1.5 acres. This home will not last, call for a private showing. $2,012,800
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Page 4 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
SRVRWF Present Roseann Slonsky-Breault The San Ramon Valley Republican Women Federated (SRVRWF) present Roseann Slonsky-Breault as the California Federation of Republican Women (CFRW) Northern Division President 2012/2013. Roseann Slonsky-Breault will install our incoming officers and give us an update on Northern Division and California Republican Women Federated. If you have not met this energetic woman already, you are in for a treat. She has risen through the ranks of the Northern Division. We can expect great and exciting information about the future of our party. Don’t miss this opportunity to hear a dynamic Republican woman and to welcome in our 2013 Executive Board Officers. The luncheon will be held Tuesday, November 27th at the Crow Canyon Country Club located at 711 Silver Lake Drive in Danville. The meeting social time begins at 11:30am followed by lunch and the speaker at noon. The cost is $25. For reservations, call Mary 925.837.5465 or email srvrwf. lunch@gmail.com by Thursday, November 21st. To assure yourself a place at the table, make your reservation early! For more information visit San Ramon Valley Republican Women Federated at www.srvrwf.org.
Alamo Sheriff’s Station Seeks Volunteers The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Station in the Alamo Shopping Center is looking for volunteers to assist in law enforcement in our community. The volunteers are assigned duty at the Station's lobby to greet visitors, answer phones, participate in the “If I Were a Thief” program, and assist in law enforcement sponsored events. Adults who do not have a criminal history and who can serve five hours a week should call Lieutenant Tom Chalk at (925) 646-6180, or visit the office at 150 Alamo Plaza #C to pick up an application.
Alamo Community Meeting with Supervisor Candace Anderson On the third Monday of the month at 8AM, Supervisor Andersen is holding a one-hour informal Alamo Community Liaison Meeting. Interested clubs, organizations, and individuals are invited. This is an opportunity for groups to provide updates and share with one another what is happening in Alamo. The goal is further communication, exchange of ideas, and building of relationships among everybody who has a vested interest in Alamo. The meeting will be held at the Supervisor’s Danville office, located at 309 Diablo Road, Danville. Please RSVP to Field Representative Donna Maxwell at 925-957-8860 or email donna.maxwell@bos.cccounty.us. The next meeting will be November 19th.
Blue Star Moms East Bay Chapter 101 Blue Star Moms is having a Drop Zone to collect donations for their upcoming “Holiday Hugs” care package mailing to our Troops in December. Please help us show the Troops our gratitude and that we have not forgotten them and all they are doing to keep our Country safe! Our goal is to send out 2,500 care packages, and we cannot do it without the generous support of our community. While you are out shopping, please consider picking up an item or two and dropping it off. We are glad to be back at the Veterans Building in downtown Danville since it was been newly renovated. We welcome you to come say hello, sponsor a care package mailing ($12.85), make a postcard or two, or drop off a donation. All donations will be mailed to our brave men and women serving our country overseas. Go to www.bluestarmoms.org and click on care packages for more information, including a list of our donation items.
Drop Zone Dates and Locations November 3rd, 10AM - 3PM • Safeway, 200 Alamo Plaza, Alamo November 10th, 10AM - 3PM • Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave, Danville November 17th, 10AM - 3PM • Lucky’s, 21001 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon Thank you for supporting our Troops!
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 5
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Celebrate the Joy of Remembrance at the 26th Annual Hospice of the East Bay Tree of Lights Hospice of the East Bay invites the public to participate in its 26th Annual Tree of Lights ceremonies to be held throughout Contra Costa in November and December. Each light on every tree is symbolic of a life and will shine in honor or memory of a beloved friend or family member. Please join any of the commemorative ceremonies to enjoy music, poetry, remembrances by family members and friends of Hospice, and the special moment when the tree lights up. • Walnut Creek Tree ~ Saturday, November 17th, 5PM, 1511 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, behind Va de Vi Restaurant, Walnut Creek • Rossmoor Tree ~ Tuesday, November 27th, 5PM, Creekside Clubhouse, 1010 Stanley Dollar Drive, Walnut Creek • Alamo Tree ~ Wednesday, December 12th, 12:15PM, Alamo Women’s Club, 1401 Danville Boulevard, Alamo • Danville/San Ramon Tree ~ Friday, December 14th, 5:30PM, reception follows, Town Meeting Hall, 201 Front Street, Danville Lights can be dedicated for a minimum gift of $25. Donors of $100 or more have the option of having their name listed in the tree lighting program. Tax-deductible tree sponsorships range from $250 to $10,000. Proceeds from Tree of Lights ceremonies benefit our communities and the patients and families in the care of Hospice of the East Bay. 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. For light purchases, donations, sponsorships, and event questions call (925) 887-5678 or visit www.hospiceeastbay.org.
Veterans of Foreign Wars Meeting Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW), Post 75, San Ramon Valley meets every third Wednesday of the month at the Veterans Memorial Building, located at 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville, on the corner at East Prospect Avenue and Hartz Avenue. This month’s meeting will be held Wednesday, November 21st. Doors open at 7PM, and the meeting begins at 7:30PM. For more information, contact Post Commander Ernie Petagara at (925) 362-9806. Mail to: VFW Post 75 San Ramon Valley, P.O. Box 1092, Danville, CA 94526. Find out more about the VFW and our Post Delta Nu Psi Collection on the internet at www.vfwpost75.org. For our collections in November, we would love to send lots of chocolate candy to our Troops. By the Design /Sales middle of the month the temperatures will have cooled, Installation / Repair and our servicemen have not had chocolate for about six months. Halloween candy that your children collected Highest Quality is always welcome. Lowest Price Our collection dates are CVS in Alamo on NovemFastest Delivery ber 2nd and Lunardi's in Danville on November 9th from 11am to 2pm. Julia Nieman | julianieman@comcast.net We have now sent 24,790 pounds of “gourmet junk 925.837.2010 | www.hunterdouglas.com food.” For more information, visit www.deltanupsi.org.
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Page 6 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
Alamo Women’s Club
The Season’s Most Beautiful Cashmere for MEN and WOMEN
Alamo Women’s Club, established in 1916, is a philanthropic service organization with current focuses on Women, Health, and Children and Families. Among the philanthropies previously and currently supported are: Hospice of the East Bay, local schools and libraries, Red Cross of America, Canine Companions for Independence, Youth Homes, George Mark Children’s House, STAND! for Families Free of Violence and Vestia.
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Monday-Saturday 10am-6pm |Sunday 12pm-5pm
December On December 5th, we will be sponsoring a day out at Dunsmuir House in Berkeley, followed by no-host lunch at the Claremont Hotel. On December 12th, we will have our annual potluck luncheon, bake sale, and Hospice Tree Lighting. We will have piano music by Frank Holmes and a performance by “On Q,” the small group from the Oakland/East Bay Gay Mens Chorus. Our Clubhouse will be decorated for the holidays, so please join us!
January On January 23, Mick LaSalle, San Francisco Chronicle film critic, will be our guest and speaker to kick off our run up to the Oscars! Mick has been film critic for the Chronicle, and he is the author of The Complicated Women: Sex and Power in Pre-Code Hollywood, a history/critical study of the actresses who worked in the film industry between 1929-1934, and Dangerous Men: Pre-Code Hollywood and the Birth of the Modern Man. His most recent book about current fascinating French film actresses, The Beauty of the Real, was published in October in connection with a film festival in San Francisco. Even as actresses become increasingly marginalized by Hollywood, French cinema is witnessing an explosion of female talent—a Golden Age unlike anything the world has seen since the days of Stanwyck, Hepburn, Davis, and Garbo. In France, the joy of acting is alive and well. Scores of French actresses are doing the best work of their lives in movies tailored to their star images and unique personalities. Yet, virtually no one this side of the Atlantic even knows about them. Viewers who feel shortchanged by Hollywood will be thrilled to discover The Beauty of the Real. This book showcases a range of contemporary French actresses to an audience that will know how to appreciate them—an American public hungry for the exact qualities that these women represent. To spend time with them, to admire their flashing intelligence and fearless willingness to depict life as it is lived, gives us what we’re looking for in movies but so rarely find: insights into womanhood, meditations on the dark and light aspect’s of life’s journey, revelations, and explorations that move viewers to reflect on their own lives. The stories they bring to the screen leave us feeling renewed and excited about movies again. January through the Oscars Movie Night: Tuesday evenings until the
215 Alamo Plaza, Suite D, Alamo (Next to Peet’s Coffee)
925-216-8599
www.thecashmeresale.com night of the Oscars we will be going to the nominated movies. It will be a fun time out with the Club.
February On February 27th our speaker will be Ronda Giangraco, author of The Gathering Table. A former stand up comedian, Ronda was diagnosed at 48 with multiple sclerosis. Determined to walk to her kitchen until she could no longer walk, she hosted weekly Sunday dinners for eight for a year, celebrating life and sharing with friends the progression of her illness. In her book, she talks about the need to share these meals and be nurtured by friendship in return. If you are interested in renting our building or wish additional information about the above or membership, please visit www.AlamoWomensClub.org.
AAUW Holiday Home Tour The Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek AAUW group will hold their 8th Annual Holiday Home Tour on December 7th and 8th from 10am - 4pm. Six decorated homes in Danville, Walnut Creek, and Alamo will be included in the tour. Tickets costing $25-$35 can be purchased at the East Bay Flower Company located at 206 Sycamore Valley Rd. West in the Danville Livery. AAUW advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy, and research. Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek AAUW offers scholarships and supports women for personal and professional growth, community leadership, and friendship. AAUW membership is open to all graduates of accredited four-year colleges or universities and those holding an Associate Degree or equivalent. Prospective members can contact Tena at (925) 837-0826 or membershipvp@aauw-da.org. For more information, visit www.aauw-daw.org.
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Get into the Spirit! Come to downtown Danville, Danville Livery, and the Rose Garden Shops on Saturday, November 24th for festive events which will be going on all day and night. Rain or shine, to keep your spirit warm, some merchants will offer hot cider, cookies, holiday ornaments and gifts throughout the day. Free trolley rides will shuttle shoppers in downtown Danville, the Livery, and the Rose Garden Shops from 2pm-8pm. Santa will be visiting downtown between the hours of 2 and 6pm at The Museum of the San Ramon Valley. Bring the children down to share their wish list with Santa. Be sure to visit the Museum’s Christmas Memories exhibit. There is free admission daily. Please share in the spirit by supporting the participating local nonprofit organizations whose selfless work benefits Danville and surrounding communities. Participating charities include Blue Star Moms, Lazarex Cancer Foundation, Hospice of the East Bay, San Ramon Valley Education Foundation, and Discover Danville Association. For more information, visit www.discoverdanvilleca.com.
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 7
New Park for Bocce Ball Courts Needed Would you be willing to help find a location for bocce ball courts in Alamo? An extensive parks and recreation survey of Alamo residents was conducted in late 2010, and the results were tabulated and published in January 2011. The survey had an exceptional response rate for surveys of this type, and it offered a valuable insight into the wishes of our community. Alamo people commented on a number of parks and recreation issues. However, there were two responses that rose to the top of people’s interest. The first was support for new park development and the second was very high support for bocce ball courts in Alamo. With this in mind, it would seem that a new park that included bocce ball would receive a high degree of resident support. The Alamo Municipal Advisory Council (MAC) is actively investigating such a new park design and is seeking suggestions from Alamo folks for possible locations. As we know, empty lots are scarce in Alamo, and any that do exist are expensive. Nevertheless, the MAC is interested in hearing from Alamo folks about possibilities. The land should be reasonably accessible, large enough for bocce ball courts and other recreational amenities, and reasonably priced (a donated parcel would obviously be of high interest). If you have any suggestions for a location of a new park in Alamo, please contact County Supervisor Candace Andersen’s office at 957-8860 or email Donna.Maxwell@bos. cccounty.us.
The Secret is Out, and Everyone is Excited About...
“the Kitchen” in Alamo It’s almost done…
Ski and Snowboard Swap Come to one of Northern California’s largest Ski and Snowboard Swaps when San Ramon Valley High School holds its 34th annual event November 3rd and November 4th from 10AM-4PM each day. Buy/Sell new, past season, and gently used ski and snowboard equipment and apparel. Adult and child sizes are available. Retail ski and snowboard shops will also be offering a huge selection of new, past season, and demo equipment and apparel, along with expert fittings and advice. In addition, community members are invited to sell their past season equipment on consignment at the swap. Outfit the whole family for less this winter season! Visit http://skiandsnowboardswapsrvhs.com to register equipment and for more information. Admission cost is $5 general, and children 5 & under are free when they come with an adult. The event will be held at 501 Danville Blvd., Danville, on the San Ramon Valley High School campus. E-mail any questions to srvswap@aol.com.
Alamo Police Services District P-2, Zone B Deputy Mike Carson, Alamo Resident Deputy, activities for September 2012
Deputy Carson Completed: 146 Calls for service • 11 Moving citations • 4 Field interview cards • 5 Reports
Deputy Carson Responded to or Conducted 2Alarm calls • 5 Found properties • 3 Suspicious circumstances • 2 Service to citizens • 1 Disturbance • 4 Vandalism • 1Auto burglary • 1 Outside assists • 1 Possession of drugs • 3 Grand thefts • 5 Petty thefts • 2 Battery • 2 Residential burglaries • 2 Identity thefts
If I Were a Thief Program (Crime awareness and prevention) 622 Streets covered • 266 Flyers distributed
Reported Incidents • Kimberwicke Ct - Residential Burglary - Deputy Carson responded to a residential burglary where a bicycle was stolen from an attached garage. No signs of forced entry were found. It is believed that entry and exit were made through a side pedestrian garage door which was left unlocked. There are no known suspects or independent witnesses. • Elliot Ct - Residential Burglary - Valley Station Deputies responded to a reported residential burglary. The home is equipped with an alarm system, but it had not been turned on. A side door that leads into the home had been forced open. The suspect(s) entered the home and stole items. Deputy Mike Carson is Alamo’s full time resident deputy. His position is funded by Alamo’s P-2B police services district, which includes approximately 60% of Alamo household. District households pay an $18 annual parcel tax plus a portion of the 1% property tax. The Alamo Police Services Advisory Committee advises Sheriff David Livingston on the resident deputy and his services. The Committee is composed of Alamo residents within the district and it meets on the first Monday of each month at 5pm in the offices of the Alamo Chamber of Commerce, located at 120B Alamo Plaza. Alamo citizens are welcome to attend the meetings.
3211 Danville Blvd | Alamo • 925.837.2420
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Page 8 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
Alamo Elementary School
Rancho Romero Elementary School
Mustangs on the Move! By Stan Hitomi, Principal
By Skye Larsh-Faraghan, Principal
It is safe to say that things are “really moving” at Alamo School these days. Students, staff, and parents have all embraced the pursuit of healthy minds and bodies. Regular exercise has been proven to improve your mood, boost your ability to fend off infection, and lower your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. At Alamo School everybody is getting into exercise, and the staff is leading the way! Exercise helps you feel better and live longer. What better message to send to our children? The staff at Alamo School has taken the approach that actions speak louder than words, and we are leading by example. Over half of the staff signed up for the “Fitness Challenge” to exercise a minimum of 30 minutes a day, every day, for the entire month of October. They selected their preferred type of exercise that included walking, running, hiking, playing sports, and doing yoga to become healthier and serve as role models for students. The challenge required that they keep logs of their exercise, and many shared the logs with their students. Alamo School maintains a variety of exercise options to engage the staff and community including on-site programs in yoga, FitZone, and basketball. Yoga classes are held once-a-week, FitZone twice-a-week, and basketball for Dads is held on Tuesday nights (7PM) and Saturday afternoons (2:30PM). In the spirit of exercise, Alamo School went “wild” with their participation in the Primo’s Run for Education last month. Alamo School finished with 103% registered participants, first among all the schools in the district. This was far ahead of second place Tassajara Hills (71%), and third place Rancho Romero (53%), and it shattered the previous record of 74.6% by Gayle Ranch Middle School. Over 300 students, teachers, parents, staff, and friends of Alamo School walked or ran in the 29th Annual event. Kristin Kiltz and Karyn Bergen (PTA) provided the energy and creativity behind this record-breaking participation. The secret to a successful exercise program is to be consistent and do it with someone else. Feel free to join the movement!
Important Dates November 2 November 12 November 13-16 November 19-23
Ed Fund Meeting Veterans Day (no school) Kindergarten Conferences Thanksgiving Recess (no school)
Upcoming Meetings and Events
I am constantly reminded of how fortunate we are to work and/or have children in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. When we can proudly speak of high academic achievement, exemplary physical fitness programs, and quality art and music instruction in elementary school, it would appear the phrase “Kids Come First” really applies. Last year 353 students in grades 2-5 took the California Standards Tests (CSTs) at Rancho Romero. The primary goal of this assessment as part of California’s Accountability Progress Reporting system is to measure and report the academic success of California’s nearly 10,000 public schools in over 1,000 districts. Results from the CSTs reveal that in each of the grade levels students made gains in achievement in both English Language Arts and Mathematics, with the majority of students, 90% and higher, reaching proficiency or advanced performance levels in both content areas. Additionally, the school’s Academic Performance Index has increased by eight percentage points over last year and fifteen percentage points in the last two years. The state has set 800 as the API target for all schools to meet. We are proud to announce that Rancho Romero now has an API of 955. In the area of physical fitness, Rancho recently learned that the school has earned the highest award for the third year in a row for outstanding achievement in physical fitness and is distinguished as a President’s Challenge Physical Fitness State Champion School for 2011-2012. BJ Byrd and Michelle Cabrita, PE teachers, along with 1st through 5th grade students set goals and once again exceeded expectations. The school will be listed as a State Champion on the President’s Challenge website, www.presidentschallenge.org. Finally, we are pleased to have our K-5 art and music program in full swing. Jill Thompson, music teacher, and Danielle John, art teacher, have collaborated to engage students in artistic expression and creativity by exploring and integrating music, art, poetry, and movement, based on the Visual and Performing Arts Content Standards and new Common Core Standards. This month students will experience the musical genius of Felix Mendelsson and analyze, assess, and derive meaning from Pablo Picasso. Once again, thank you teachers, parents, and community partners for doing what is best for our kids. The continued march toward excellence in preparing students for college and careers in the 21st Century is possible because of you.
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AIA - Alamo Improvement Association - November 13th , 7pm - Creekside Community Church -1350 Danville Blvd. Alamo MAC (Municipal Advisory Committee) - First Tuesday of each month 6pm - Alamo Chamber of Commerce Office 120-B, Alamo Plaza P2B - Police Services Advisory Committee - First Monday of each month, 5pm - Meets at Alamo Chamber of Commerce Office located at 120 -B, Alamo Plaza P5 - Round Hill Police Services Advisory Committee - Second Wednesday of each month, 7pm - Meets at Round Hill Country Club - Lower Level Meeting Room CERT classes - Community Emergency Response Team - Visit www. firedepartment.org/community_outreach/cert/upcoming_classes.asp
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Stone Valley Middle School By Shaun K. McElroy, Principal Introducing Switch September marked the beginning of my third year as a participant in the Stanford Principals Fellowship, a privately funded “think tank” whose goal is to improve the quality of public education. Each monthly visit Fellows are exposed to top researchers from business, education, and design. Our September visit featured Chip Heath, Senior Professor at the Stanford Graduate School of Business and co-author (along with his brother) of best sellers Made to Stick and Switch: How to Change Things When Change is Hard (learn more at www.heathbrothers.com). The conversation with Dr. Heath centered on how to make small changes that have a large impact on institutional change. In my September article I wrote about how the new Common Core State Standards (CCSS) will require teachers to fundamentally change their teaching practices to meet the demands of the new CCSS. Using Switch as the framework of making this change the first step is to find the “bright spots” or things that are working well. Step two is to “script critical moves followed by finding the feeling (change is hard), and finally tweak the environment. Here’s where we are: Bright spots – The middle schools began their CCSS training in January 2012. Multiple CCSS trainings have followed including a district-wide event on October 5th that featured staff development for all areas of instruction. Script critical moves – SRVUSD has created CCSS task forces for English Language Arts and Math. The task forces are composed of key teacher leaders from every school in SRVUSD. Stone Valley Representatives for Language Arts are Assistant Principal Karen Johnson, and 6th,7th, and 8th grade core teacher Devrah Lawver. Mathematics will be represented by teachers Wendy Nacamu and Jenna Ray. Find the feeling – My guess is that most of us are feeling frightened and excited at the same time. Tweak the environment – Our classroom structures will need to be shifted to accommodate students working and a variety of groups. Teachers will now be providers of context vs. deliverers of content.
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SRVEF Funds Two Major Education Initiatives Stone Valley science teachers Teresa Butler-Doran and Jeff Hager are the beneficiaries of a San Ramon Valley Education Foundation (SRVEF) and Stone Valley Ed Fund matching grant that will provide their adjoining classrooms with 32 iPad devices for student use. Teresa and Jeff attended the summer iPower institute to learn new teaching strategies for digital instruction. Implementation should begin in early November in 6th grade science classes. SRVEF also allocated funds to allow SRVUSD math teachers to participate in the Silicon Valley Math Initiative (SVMI). The SVMI is a comprehensive effort to improve mathematics instruction and student learning. The Initiative is based on high performance expectations, ongoing professional development, examining student work, and improved math instruction. Learn more at www.svmimac.org. The Stone Valley staff, along with other middle school math teachers, will participate in monthly trainings with the SVMI staff for the 2012-13 school year. The goal is to provide our students with a rich math experience and break down barriers that exist with traditional math instruction.
Sneak Previews of Coming Events Parenting Boys – Mark Wollan returns to Stone Valley this year to present a two part series titled Raising Boys to be Men of Character. The dates for this important event are Wednesday, November 7th and Wednesday, November 14th 7-9pm in the Stone Valley Library. Please RSVP to dtrue@srvusd.net. STEM related after school programs for 4th -8th students – Alamo Elementary, Stone Valley Middle, and Monte Vista High School are teaming up to offer three after school mini courses in biotechnology, solar energy and three dimensional modeling. The anticipated kick off is January 2013 with one workshop per month.
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. The 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.
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Page 10 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
San Ramon Valley High School By Ruth Steele, Principal I am writing this article as we head from October into November, and it has been a busy, busy fall so far. My first SRVHS homecoming week was amazing. We had a school rally, parade, and game on Friday, Homecoming dance on Saturday, and Primo’s Run on Sunday! Primo’s Run is the San Ramon Valley Education Foundations biggest fund-raiser, and with over 9,000 participants this year it clearly illustrates the deep commitment that families in this area have to our schools. As educators we are extremely fortunate to have the support of SRVEF and a community that believes in the importance of the many different programs that we are able to offer. State funding for our schools continues to dwindle, leaving us in the unhappy position of having to lean more and more on our communities for financial support. The truth is we are in a uniquely fortunate position. While many California school districts are losing programs and making cuts, our communities are helping to preserve our athletics and arts programs, our electives, our lower class sizes, and our quality of education. All of our local school districts are wrestling with a variety of enormous challenges. These fall into two main categories: Structural/System issues and Student/Staff issues. The Structural/System issues include navigating the transition from STAR testing to Common Core, bringing our classrooms into the 21st century, purchasing appropriate technology, and maintaining facilities. Student/Staff issues include the more intangible challenges of preparing students for college or the workplace, supporting students in balancing their learning goals with their personal growth, providing professional development and support for teachers, and moving towards a model of education that helps students to become more curious learners and deeper thinkers. The truth of course is that the Structures/Systems issues can never really be separated from our Student/Staff issues; they go hand in hand, especially when you are moving into unchartered territory as we are right now. We are moving towards a completely new assessment system that should be fully implemented in the 2014-2015 school year. www.corestandards.org outlines the content areas that have already been defined, and www.smarterbalanced.org describes what the new computer based assessments will look like. The good news is that Common Core is widely supported by educators as it will enable staff and students to focus on curriculum which targets development of skills and depth of knowledge. This is something that everyone can agree on as a positive. The challenge will be making sure that we can provide the training and resources that schools and teachers need in order to make this a successful transition. My perspective on these complicated issues is simple. We have to make it work for our students and provide them with the best education we can. The only way to create any clear goals in times of change is to focus on the fact that we are tasked with the huge responsibility of preparing our youth for careers and a lifestyle that we don’t fully understand yet. No-one knows what the future is going to bring. We only know that it will be different. Upcoming articles will be to try and articulate how we are going about approaching these challenges at SRVHS. It is going to be an interesting journey!
California Writers Club Author Nick Mamatas will present a workshop on “Beginnings and Endings for Fiction and Non-fiction” at the next meeting of the Mt. Diablo Branch of the California Writers Club (CWC) on Saturday, November 10th at Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant, 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. Nick will explain the difference between hooking and tantalizing a reader, what editors look for in the first paragraph, how to write a memorable conclusion, and the advice to never preach. Participants are asked to bring paper and a pen for exercises. The author of four novels, over eighty short stories, and hundreds of articles on writing and editing, Mamatas has been nominated for Hugo, Bram Stoker, and World Fantasy awards. Sign-in is from 8:30 to 9am, full breakfast is from 9am to 9:30am, and the workshop is from 9:30am to 12:30pm. Registration is $35 for CWC members, $40 for guests. Reservations are required, and must be received no later than noon on Wednesday, November 7th. Contact Jeannie Georgakopoulos at jeaniegpops@comcast.net or by phone at (925) 934-5677. Expect confirmation only if you e-mail your reservation. For more information, visit http://cwcmtdiablowriters.wordpress.com.
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Monte Vista High School By Janet Terranova, Principal The first quarter is over, and as usual students and staff are amazed that a quarter of the school year is behind us. It has been a quarter filled with academic challenges as our students achieve high standards in a variety of academic and elective courses and participate in a myriad of activities. We have had two very successful rallies, Homecoming Week that found well over 70% of the student body taking part in one or more activities or dress up days, a Club Faire where over 65 clubs encouraged students to join their activity or service organization, a successful choral concert, and enough sporting events to keep even the most dedicated sport fan satisfied. Our students have a wonderful opportunity to challenge themselves academically and participate in activities to prepare them for college and careers. Throughout the school year Monte Vista hosts a variety of guest speakers. Monte Vista was fortunate to have Alexander Jefferson, a Tuskegee Airman, speak to a group of students. You could literally hear a pin drop in the theater as students listened for over an hour as Mr. Jefferson spoke to the students in a clear engaging voice covering topics from bullying to war. Students and staff are hoping they will be as active and chipper at 93. Thanks to Mike Martin of the Vietnam Vets for bringing this wonderful speaker to our school. During the school year students often have the opportunity to come to the theater to hear from experts in a variety of careers to spark student interest or bring history to life. The theater at Monte Vista is rarely quiet. If you are looking for an evening of entertainment from theater, vocal, or instrumental music, consider some of the wonderful productions in your own backyard. Some upcoming productions include dance productions, plays, and choral music. If you would like more information about these events and other events, please visit our website at www.mvhigh.org.
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 11
A Preserver and Creator of History in the San Ramon Valley Spending 53 years of his life in Alamo, Roy S. Bloss made his mark on this area. Born April 2, 1918, Roy both preserved and created history in the San Ramon Valley. Few people could say they participated and contributed as much to their community as Roy did. In the early 1950s Roy was living in the suburbs of Los Angeles with his wife, his son, and his daughter. Roy’s employer moved north and Roy and his family moved too. They settled into a home on Laurenita Way in westside Alamo in 1955. Having worked for the trucking industry for many years, he became intrigued about the concept of relays stations and the Pony Express. In 1959 he wrote a book titled Pony Express - The Great Gamble. During his research, Roy discovered that even though popular history recorded the Pony Express as ending its western route in Sacramento, that was not always the case. The riders who were coming across the country from St. Joseph, Mo., where it started, sometimes missed the river steamer that would take them to San Francisco, where the mail was destined. When that happened they had to run the mail from Sacramento to Oakland to catch the ferry. So they would come down the north side of the river, cross over from Benicia into Martinez, and then go into what is now Walnut Creek and Lafayette and over the hills into Oakland. Roy’s passion for finding out “the rest of the story” and preserving stories led him to volunteer with the Contra Costa County Historical Society (he later served as president from 1983-1984). And, his work with the Society inspired him to join with a group of local residents to form the San Ramon Valley Historical Society in 1970. During the time he was forming the San Ramon Valley Historical Society, the county was proposing to widen Danville Boulevard to four lanes instead of two. Roy also formed and served as chairman of the Association
San Ramon Valley Incorporation Committee from 1973, pictured left to right are Dick Kennett, Bill Ketsdever, Gene Rolandelli, and Roy Bloss.
to Preserve Danville Boulevard. Through their efforts they were able to keep Danville Boulevard a two lane road. In reminiscing Roy had noted, “I’m happiest about fighting the widening of Danville Boulevard because that would have changed the whole community. It would have put a major road smack through a very quiet community.” Beginning in 1971 one of the many attempts to incorporate the area began. Roy worked as co-chairman of the Alamo cityhood campaign. He and a group of civic leaders proposed incorporating the area from Walnut Creek to the Alameda County line into a city. Voters went to the polls on January 23, 1973 to decide if the new city to be named the “City of San Ramon Valley” should be created. The outcome was 5,623 “no” votes to 5,178 “yes” votes. If the city had been created, the voters had chosen five people, most from Alamo, to serve as the first city council members. Those elected to “the city council that never was” included Bloss as well as Claudia Nemir, Eric Hasseltine, Brian Thiessen, and Dick Kennett. Roy continued volunteering and being active in the community until 2008 when he moved to be near his daughter and grandchildren in Rancho Palos Verdes, California. Roy passed away on Sunday, October 14, 2012, at the age of 94. Roy was an avid historian who researched, preserved, and wrote about many historical events. “He was a wonderful guy,” noted local historian Beverly Lane. Great granddaughter Megan with Roy Bloss, 2012
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Page 12 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
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The Mustang Soccer U16 Fury won their division at the Benicia Fall Classic. The team had many injured players, and barely fielded a team of 11 to get through overtime and win the championship in penalty kicks. Back: Coach Shannon Blankenship, Christina Chace, Coach Scott Kruger, Taylor Barker, Kyndel Sidore, Coach Steve Sidore. Middle: Brianna Engle, McKenzie Zwetsloot, Carley Kruger, Karen Lindow, Taylor Nixon, Mac Shrieve. Front: Rachael Peterson, Shaye Lawrentz, Hannah Perrien, Bailey Blankenship, and Allie Davis.
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Lighting of the Old Oak Tree The holiday season is upon us, and if you’re considering a perfect way to kick it off, grab your family and friends and spend the evening in Danville, where the Lighting of the Old Oak Tree on Friday, November 23rd will take place. In its 36th year, the Lighting of the Old Oak Tree is a favorite community custom for all ages. The event begins at 5:15pm, when everyone gathers around the town’s 350-year-old oak tree to enjoy refreshments and music provided by the San Ramon Valley High School Chorus and the Danville Girls Chorus under the direction of Ken Abrams. The magic continues as Father Christmas and the Snow Angel arrive. When the Snow Angel sprinkles fairy dust, the Old Oak Tree lights up in glorious illumination. Afterwards, Reel Blondes, a Danville cabaret troupe, spring into action as brightly wrapped holiday gifts and escort Father Christmas and the Snow Angel through downtown Danville with the community following - enjoying holiday goodies such as hot cocoa, cider, and tea provided by Danville’s merchants, who have decked-out their downtown shops with seasonal splendor. Local entertainers including Alma Desnuda, Rundown Radio, the Monte Vista Beauty Shop Quartet, California Spirit Elite, and Studio 8 Dance & Performing Arts Center will perform, as well as the Danville Community Flute Ensemble, East Bay Dance Company, Pacific Boy Choir Academy, America’s Best Karate, and San Ramon Dance Academy. “This event is such a great Danville tradition,” said Shelby McNamara, president and CEO of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit http://danvilleareachamber.com.
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Eco-travel, Far or Near By Cynthia Ruzzi, President Sustainable Danville Area
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Often the telltale sign of a person’s recent vacation is the burnish on their face from the suntan they acquired during their travels. Last CONVENIENT SHUTTLE SERVICE TO week, renewing my car insurance with local Danville Area Sustainable Business, HOME, THE OFFICE, BART AND BACK. William White Allstate, I couldn’t help but notice owners Bill and Teresa had a glow that went beyond the color on their face. Teresa explained to me that their ` family had just returned from an eco-tour to Borneo, Malaysia. ECONOMIC LUBE, OIL DIAGNOSIS/ The family chose to spend their vacation visiting the tropical rainforest as STIMULUS & FILTER CHECK ENGINE SPECIAL LIGHT INSPECTION Teresa shared, “As a family we have a balanced perspective on environmental Multi-Point Performance Boost your savings with Let our trained experts perform an Inspection protection. We’re definitely not tree-huggers, but we wanted to visit Borneo this great discount. initial inspection and diagnosis. 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While rainforests absorb a great deal of carbon dioxide from the air, help make rainfall and are home to more than half of the worlds’ plants and animals, I wondered if this was the cause of Bill and Teresa’s collective glow? Bill chimed in that their time spent together in Borneo was other-worldly filled with animals, birds, and plants that they had never imagined. Bill shined, “It was really meeting and talking with local people and learning some of their customs that was most humbling and heart-warming.” With the holiday season just around the corner and my husband and I eschewing ‘things for the sake of things.’ I had to ask - what is eco-tourism? Eco-tourism, along with eco-travel, responsible tourism, sustainable tourism and a bunch of LAFAYETTE SAN RAMON SINCE 3340 Mt. 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While eco-tourism doesn’t necessarily mean roughing-it, it is important to understand how water, heating, food, and transportation are supplied for visitors’ convenience. What measures do your accommodations take to reduce waste and conserve local resources? How do they heat water and provide electricity? The Rainforest Lodge in Borneo, where the Whites’ stayed, is an ‘off-the-grid’ lodge hosting a maximum of 60 guests. Solar panels connected to batteries provide most of the electricity, and full-house nighttime demands are met by various staff members hopping on bicycles (guest participation is optional) rigged to generate additional power. Teresa assured me that this unique system was reliable and that we have more electrical blips locally then experienced at the lodge. When visiting local sights, does the tour company use low-impact forms of transportation? Often the best way to experience someplace new is to take the bus or the train and meet the people. Respect the customs and try the food. However, beware that endangered species may be on the menu without your knowledge, so in preparation check with local conservation organizations to know what to avoid. Bill and his family believe to gain the best experience from an eco-tour one must also be a good eco-tourist. Responsibility begins when you start to plan your trip. Consider travel to World Heritage sites where conservation, nature, and culture are the key attraction. Visit UNESCO World Heritage at http://whc.unesco.org/en/list and Protected Planet at www.protectedplanet.net to gather ideas before researching specific tours. The International Union for Conservation of Nature has a useful top-ten list for eco-tourists at www.iucn.org/?uNewsID=7253. For more ideas and tips on eco-tourism, Sustainable Danville Area invites you to our Thursday, November 8th forum, 6pm at San Ramon Valley High School Career Center, lower level of the administration building. Our evening speaker, Judith Scott, Travel Consultant from Alamo World Travel and Tours, and host William White from Allstate will have lots to share – including fun snacks and beverages. For more information about Sustainable Danville Area and upcoming Danville sale starts November 5 . Pleasanton sale is on now! events, visit us at www.sustainabledanville. com and on Facebook.
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 15
System Monitoring By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO We all know our homes and businesses have become dependent on technology. Whether it’s email, access to a customer database or a child doing homework, computer systems and access to the internet have become mission critical for everyone. Our challenge is how to keep them running at their best. Besides being the best service company around, the goal at Portable CIO is to work ourselves out of a job. I know that sounds funny, but really, if we’re doing the right things for you and your computers, we’re setting you up to not constantly need us. Let’s face it, computer repairs can be costly, and if you’re always seeing us, either we’re not doing our job right, or you’ve had a real string of bad luck! Whether that means using the right antivirus, choosing a new computer, or replacing aging network equipment, the goal is the same -- reliable and stable computer systems that don’t need attention. The truth is that despite our best efforts to create a bulletproof environment, physical equipment failures, poor user habits, and the ever-present threat of virus infection conspire to keep us very busy. Obviously it’s financially impractical to have Portable CIO visit you every day to ensure your systems are in top shape. But, what if there was a way to have us there helping you without setting foot in your home or business? What if we could be checking all of those things that we know are important every moment your computers were turned on? Happily, the answer is that it’s possible. Whether someone uses a Macintosh or a PC, there are countless factors that can be remotely monitored, measured, and corrected, which enable us to keep you and your computers happy. In the home environment, common issues are hardisks that fill up, virus and malware infections, and computers that never get updated or backed up. In the commercial arena the focus is on keeping computer systems upto-date, ensuring the network infrastructure is functioning, that company file servers are running in top condition, and of course that backups are occurring for mission critical data. Our software works in the background, and proactively it looks for indicators these key processes are occuring. When they don’t, you and we get an alert to take action before a small problem becomes big. We’re able to set specific thresholds that alert us when a condition changes for the worse. We can tell you when your system is running low on disk space, and we can make sure that your antivirus is kept current and that your computer has all of its security patches from Microsoft. We can tell your server to reboot every week in the middle of the night, and we can verify that your backups are occurring as scheduled. If you’re a business, we can help you keep track of all of your computers, and we can audit the software that’s on each system to ensure there’s no illegal music downloading, or that employees aren’t making changes to hardware and software settings that will adversely affect the computer. We can keep your family computer ready and available for the kids to do their homework. Wherever you are, we can be your portable IT department, ready to alert you should there be an indicator of trouble and able to hop on remotely at a moment’s notice if you need help. When people use our monitoring system, they’re able to identify problems before they get off the ground. You are able to maintain a level of control and awareness over their environment that you’ve never had before. The great part of these systems is that they’re inexpensive, particularly for how much work they do. We charge by the month for these to be installed in your environment. Covering all of a home’s computers costs much less than we charge for an hour of work, which is amazing when you consider how many ways the software is preventing trouble for you on a daily basis. And, it almost goes without saying that having this software installed is far less expensive than paying for repairs when everything has gone wrong. Are you or your business a candidate for this type of system support? Whether you use Mac’s or PC’s, everyone can benefit. Give the friendly and capable staff at Portable CIO a call at 925-552-7953, or drop us an email at Advertorial info@theportablecio.com to discuss your particular needs.
20th ANNUAL CANDY CANE BOUTIQUE!
Thanksgiving and Christmas Gift Items, Fine China, Crystal, Collectibles, Jewelry, Gift Baskets, Linens, Dolls, Toys, and Delicious Home Baked Goods SPECIAL LUNCH - $12 (Served from Noon to 2pm)
Pastitsio (Greek Pasta), Greek Salad Baklava and Coffee GREAT RAFFLE PRIZES! One Week at Sun Valley, Idaho in Stunning Vacation Home Weekend in Beautiful Donner Lake Home Weekend in Deluxe Capitola Condo with Monterey Bay View Gorgeous Fine Jewelry and Many More Wonderful Prizes SEPARATE RAFFLE FOR A Beautiful Handmade Quilt by Masterpieces Creekside Community Church 1350 Danville Boulevard, Alamo, CA Friday, November 9, 2012 from 4-8pm and Saturday, November 10, 2012 from 9am - 3pm
All proceeds will be donated to The Macedonian Outreach, a non-profit Christian organization founded with the purpose of helping the neediest children in the Balkans.
Thank you and God bless you! www.macedonianoutreach.org
Get Yours At
• ALAMO BIKES • 1469 Danville Blvd Alamo • 925.837.8444 Join Alamo Bicycles on Facebook!
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Page 16 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
Quick Trips
By Linda Summers Pirkle Special Olive Oil Sciabica Family Olive Oil Company in Modesto, an hour drive from the Bay Area, is a fun place to go. Owner, Dan Sciabica gives a great talk about the history of the olive oil industry and the Sicilian roots of the Sciabica 100% extra Virgin California Olive Oil, and you can taste the many flavors of the cold-press olive oil. Pennie Brown, receptionist at the store says, “People from all over the Bay Area, especially those heading up to Tahoe, make their travel plans to include a stop at Sciabicas.� Some years back, I discovered an interesting connection between the family run Sciabica olive oil business and the Dominican Sisters Mission Olive Oil in Fremont. After Dan’s lively presentation, he mentioned “a very special limited quantity olive oil� can be purchased once a year from the Dominican Sisters Mission San Jose located in Fremont, 40 miles south of San Francisco. Dan explains the historical significance of the special Dominican olive oil saying, “The Dominican Sisters, I believe, consistently produce the most authentic California Extra Virgin Olive Oil with the most exquisite Mission Variety Olive Oil flavor of all productions in California. They have the largest planting (over 200 trees) of original “Mission Era� olive trees in the entire State of California. These are the very same trees planted by the Franciscan Padres over 200 years ago. The acidity levels are extremely low, which is one of the indications of the exceptional quality of their olive oil. Additionally, the flavor profile is that of the original Mission Variety olives; identical to the flavor the Padres developed and enjoyed two centuries ago. All the Mission Variety Olive Oil produced in the state comes from groves which were propagated from these original plantings throughout the 21 missions.� The Sciabicas and the Dominicans have been working together for 13 years. Sister Jane Rudolph, O.P., a Dominican, explains the connection, “The Sciabicas have been pressing and bottling our olive oil since the year 2000. We sisters are tremendously grateful to Mr. Dan Sciabica and the whole company for doing the pressing, bottling, and labeling for us at their expense! We sisters harvested, pressed, and bottled the olive oil from 1933 until 1965. We had our own press at that time. The adventure with the olives began again in December 1999.� I have been going to the Dominicans’ olive oil sale for the past three years. The olive grove is located behind the Mission. Take time to see these historic trees, but purchase your olive oil first! Sister Rose Marie Hennessy, Administrator of the Motherhouse says, “It’s a very special event. We always sell out of our olive oil, but since the sale is Saturday and Sunday, we keep a reserve to put out on Sunday.� Don’t miss the boutique sales in the great hall. Row after row of tables are set up with hand crafted items and baked good, including the sisters’ secret recipe fruitcake. The sisters are extremely welcoming. Proceeds go to the retired sisters’ needs at the Motherhouse in Fremont. *Holiday Boutique at Mission San Jose is November 17th and 18th, 10am-4pm. Their address is 43326 Mission Boulevard (entrance off Mission Tierra Place), Fremont. For more information, visit their website www.msjdominicans.org or call 510-657-2468. I will see you in line! *Sciabica Family Olive Oil Company is located at 2150 Yosemite Blvd. in Modesto. They can be reached at 209-577-5067. Their hours are 8am-5pm Monday-Friday. During the holidays from Thanksgiving to Christmas, the store is open on Saturdays from 10am -4pm . Linda Summers Pirkle, travel consultant and long term Danville resident, has been arranging and leading tours for the Town of Danville for several years. Inspired by the many wonderful places to visit in the Bay Area, she organizes day trips, either for groups or for friends and family. “If it’s a trip for +HU]PSSL my husband and me, my husband drives *HTPUV ;HZZHQHYH and I talk (he’s a captive audience) – the perfect combination! What a great place to live, so much to see, so much (SHTV Open Tues thru Sat 10 to 6 to do.� To share your “Quick Trips� +HU]PSSL )V\SL]HYK :\UKH` [V ‹ *SVZLK 4VUKH` ideas email Coverthemap@gmail.com.
FIREPITS
SPARE THE AIR USE GAS LOGS
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 17
Wreaths, Swags, Sprays, Garlands, Floral Stems, Picks, Berries, Bushes and Pre-Made Arrangements
Everyday Floral also 40% off
All Pre-Lit Trees 50% off
50 Yd. Christmas Ribbon 2.5” Wide Now $8.88/Bolt
Pre-Lit Alpine Trees 2’ to 7’ $9.99 to $59.99
reg. $16.99
reg. $19.99 to $119.99
10 Yd. x 2.5”Fall & Christmas Ribbon
9’ Pre-Lit Douglas Fir Christmas Tree $199.99 reg. $399.99
Now
7’ Prelit Flocked Pine Christmas Tree $249.99
All Fall Tabletop Decor
$2.99/Bolt reg. $5.99
reg $14.99 to $24.99
Hand-blown Decorative
50% off
50% off
13” Charger Plates Now
3/$10
Now $9.99$21.99
Stems, Swags, Garlands, Bushes, Picks, Wreaths, Pumpkins and Pre-Made Arrangements
Choose from many styles and colors
reg 19.99 to 43.99
All Thank You For Supporting Scarecrows 12” to 48” High
Local Family Business
reg. $249.99
We have a beautiful collection of high quality and unique ornaments. Come see our large selection.
Any One Regular Priced Item
Sign up for our e-mail list and enter a monthly drawing for a $50 Gift Certificate! I’m already on the list!
$99.99
50
VALUABLE COUPON
____________________________________E-Mail Address
7’ Pre-Lit Douglas Fir Pine Trees
All Christmas Ornaments % off
50% off
50% off
reg. $24.99 reg. $39.99 reg. $49.99
Now $11.99 to $14.99
40% off Glass Pumpkins
20” $17.99 28” $24.99 36” $34.99
Decorative Vine Pumpkins
reg. $499.99
All Fall Floral
Table Top Glitter Christmas Trees
*Alamo
*Livermore
AT
One coupon per family per day. Cannot be combined with other offers. Excludes custom framing and prior sales, Klutz Books, Demdaco, Spellbinders, Sizzix, Willow Tree, Wilton, Games, Weird California Book, Martha Stewart, Meri Meri, Copic Markers, Pillow Pets and Webkinz. Limited to stock on hand. Other exclusions apply. Discount taken off regular price.
CLIP ‘N SAVE!
Valid Through 11/21/12
Alamo Store 820-4731 Alamo Plaza Shopping Center Stone Valley Rd. Exit West off Hwy 680 to Danville Blvd., Right 1 Block.
Livermore Store 447-0471 Plaza 580 Shopping Center 4502 Las Positas Rd., 1st St. Exit off Hwy 580, 1 Block
Mon.-Sat. 9:00-8:00, Sun. 10:00-6:00
Mon.-Sat. 9:30-9:00, Sun. 10:00-7:00 Ad prices effective through 11/21/12
www.ShopRichards.com
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Page 18 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
The Tree of the Season Coast Live Oak, Quercus agrifolia By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb If you have a coast live oak in your yard, you will understand that its Latin name, Quercus agrifolia, is appropriate. Agrifolia means spiny leaves. And though the tree retains green leaves throughout the year, it also sheds dead leaves, many dead leaves, and they are less than friendly on bare feet. If you are lucky enough to have a mature coast live oak in your garden, you are well aware that its sculptural qualities more than compensate for the ongoing maintenance this big beast requires. I find comfort in the manner wherein old trees twist into their strangely beautiful form, their rugged bark accentuating, in counterpoint, their grace and openness. The generous shade offered by their broad crowns seems to invite one to lounge against their trunks and think about things that are never on TV. Agrifolia became the dominant tree of the costal plain, not because it’s beautiful, but because it’s tough. Though plagued by several diseases and pests, the continuing ubiquity of live oaks over the millennia is testament to their ability to resist diseases and fight off pests. Several fungal diseases, with the generic names “twig blights” and “oak branch dieback,” attack the crowns of live oaks. Brown patches in your oak’s canopy are most likely from these fungal diseases. An aesthetic debit, they rarely pose a serious threat to the life of the tree. Unsightly deadwood can be pruned out. Though these diseases come from water-borne fungi, they often occur in oaks weakened by drought stress. It is common knowledge that over-watering coast live oaks is a good way to kill the tree. Too much summer water promotes the growth of oak root fungus, a common soil fungus that can turn lethal in soggy soils. Less widely appreciated is that summer watering of oaks can make them more disease- and insect-resistant IF, and it is a big IF, they are watered correctly. Correct summer watering of coast live oaks requires placing a soaker hose in a circle around the tree at least ten feet from the trunk and running the water for about two hours–sunset is a good time. It is important to water the tree not more than once a month: once in July, once in August, once in September, and once in October. Over-watering
can kill oaks by stimulating parasitic fungi. Judicious watering during dry summers gives the tree a boost but doesn’t encourage root diseases. It’s better not to water oaks at all than to over-water them; and lawns, grown under the canopy of the oaks, are a common cause of over-watering. One way to make your oak (and the many creatures it supports) happy is to turn lawn under the canopy over to native, drought-tolerant plants. This saves water, and reduces the likelihood your oak will get a root disease. Oaks also appreciate a layer of mulch. Mulch helps aerate the soil and improves the environment for beneficial soil creatures. Given that the current stewards of the coastal plain seldom burn the woodlands, most of our oak forests have built up a significant load of dead wood. To prevent a crown fire, like the one that ravaged the East Bay in 1991, it is important to make all landscape trees and shrubs more fire safe. At Brende and Lamb it is our fervent hope that all current players in the ongoing drama of the oak woodlands act to maintain a healthy ecosystem in which coast live oaks, and the many creatures that depend on them, continue to appear center stage. Unfortunately, we a starting to see a few cases of Sudden Oak Death (SOD) in the East Bay, concentrated mostly in forested parklands. The SOD pathogen infects susceptible oaks during spring rainstorms. It is difficult to prevent an oak from being infected, but there are steps to reduce the probability of infection, such as the application of Agrifos in autumn. Further more, California bay trees can be a host to SOD, where it occurs as a leaf disease. Infected bays don’t die, but they can spread the spores to oaks as water drips from the bay leaves onto the trunk of an oak. Studies show that pruning back bay trees to give a 10 foot separation from your oaks can significantly lower the infection rate. At this time, preventative action is the only way of treating the disease. It takes two years for an infected tree to show any sign of infection, and once infected there is no way to cure the disease. The best place to find current information on SOD is the California Sudden Oak Task Force at www.suddenoakdeath.org. If your trees need a little TLC to protect them against winter winds, or if your property could use a little fire protection, please call 510-486-TREE (8733) or email us at bl@brendelamb.com for a free estimate. Additionally, go to our website www.brendelamb.com to see before and after pictures, client testimonials, and work in your neighborhood. Advertorial
Russ Darby– Tim Palumbo Over 40 year experience buying and selling in Alamo Top Producers! Top 1% nationwide!
New Listing!
Russ Darby Remax Accord DRE # 00427850
Tim Palumbo Remax Accord DRE #01427421
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110 High Eagle Road, Alamo! 5 bedrooms 3 full baths updated with pool! Asking $1,149,000
3216 Stone Valley Road, Alamo! Whitegate! Sold!
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1611 Ramona Way, Alamo! 2243 Stone Valley Road, West side Alamo! Alamo!
2301 Heritage Oaks, Alamo! Roundhill area!
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Interested in Selling at today’s best price?
Call for a free market evaluation! (925) 362-0460 | (925) 314-7915 “EXPERIENCE ISN’T EXPENSIVE, IT’S PRICELESS”
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 19
Life in the Alamo Garden Spruce Up the Tired Garden By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect Let’s talk Tired Gardens! You know what I’m talking about. You look out into your Alamo garden with a huge sigh and see uninspired plantings that you have looked at for years. The gardener continues to prune plantings that are clinging to the edge of survival. Once glorious flowering shrubs and perennials have been reduced to woody stalks that seem to suffice because they are still alive. It may be a single small area, or it could be the balance of your front and back yard, but something needs to be done! What do you do when your garden is tired? In some cases it is wise to design a new Master Plan and start anew, and in others it makes sense to “spruce up.” Instead of bulldozing the entire garden, you can “spruce up” what you have. The fundamental criteria for a “spruce up” is that you are happy with the basic functionality of your hardscape and garden layout.
beautiful inside and out
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Maturity brings radical changes to landscapes that are often welcomed. It also brings other changes that are not. Trees finally provide shade cover and shade out once sun-loving plants. Lack of care and poor maintenance practices have taken their toll. Hedges and shrubs have become overgrown, hiding the house and blocking good views. These changes give cause for a “spruce up,” although the overall context of a “well-designed” landscape may still prevail. Within the life of your Alamo home, an owner’s uses will change for many reasons; kids grow-up or a family matures and changes. Lifestyles evolve and change. Once busy families that had no time to work in the garden are now retired and have time to play. This brings a whole new reason for the landscape to be spruced up. These changes call for careful consideration and should be well thought out. They should be logical and creatively resolved. Updating landscape
projects are challenging yet satisfying when properly executed. In addition to our full spectrum of landscape design services, we offer garden consultations that cover a wide range of solutions for sprucing up an existing landscape. Our consultation service is intended to provide clients with simple and doable solutions that satisfy their need for a beautiful and inspiring garden without the need of a master plan. Our basic consultation includes a site visit to assess the
condition of your garden; we provide practical recommendations for planting, irrigation, drainage, and soil problems. Whether you are tired of a small planting bed or your whole yard, we can provide solutions to “spruce up” your tired garden. Especially in today’s economic climate, in many cases it makes sense to “spruce up” your tired Alamo garden instead of completely gutting it. Consultations for sprucing up may reach beyond just the planting and may include solutions for updating hardscape elements such as sitting areas, benches and seat walls, arbors and trellises, play courts and kid zones, water features, and sculptures, etc. Adding dramatic landscape lighting or adding colorful pots and décor around the entry for the holidays can make all the difference to inspire a tired garden. Like the design of a new landscape project, a garden “spruce up” should be well thought out and planned before executing. A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: Whether you are interested in a “spruce up” or Master Plan, now is a great time to design and execute your project. While fall and winter set in think ahead to spring and be ready to implement your project so you can enjoy your yard during next year’s summer months. Gardening Quote of the Month: “Gardening is a matter of your enthusiasm holding up until your back gets used to it.” ~Author Unknown If you would like me to write on any particular subject, email your ideas to jmontgomery@jm-la.com or for design ideas visit www.jm-la.com. Advertorial
Page 20 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
BARBARA MALAN 925.831.3329 bmalan@cbnorcal.com
40 Hamilton Court, Alamo-Move in Ready! This elegant Traditional Bryan Ranch single story home offers four bedrooms, three full baths, a beautiful formal living room with Marble fireplace and a formal dining room with a boxed custom ceiling, both with gleaming hardwood floors. The spacious family room with floor to ceiling stone fireplace, built-in entertainment center and wet bar opens to the covered back patio. A large kitchen with dining area, breakfast island bar and hardwood floors overlooks the trellised patio and sparkling pool and elevated spa. The large master suite opens to the patio and pool. This home is filled with custom amenities and upgrades throughout. The professionally landscaped yard with all it has to offer is an oasis of privacy and serenity. Near the end of Stone Valley Road East. San Ramon Valley School District Buses service this area! Call for a private showing.
Offered at $1,340,000 For More Photos and a Virtual Tour http://www.allaccessphoto.com/40hamiltonct
WOMEN’S FIRST PLACE: 2.5 NORTHERN CALIFORNIA - L to R: Gina Goforth Vitzthum, Caroline Macke, Yoonies Kim, Kerry Davis, Tracy Iler, Rosilene Campos Bleeg, Tracey Bracco, Tara Khoury, Cecily T. Barclay (not shown)
Alamo Women’s Tennis Team Crowned National Champions The women’s tennis team from Alamo representing the USTA Northern California Section, captured the national title at the USTA League 2.5 Adult National Championships held at the Mission Hills Country Club in Rancho Mirage, California. The Alamo team defeated a team from Waipahu, Hawaii, 2-1 in the Championship match. Earlier in the day, the Alamo team defeated a team from Cleveland, Ohio 3-0 in the semifinals. The team plays at Round Hill Country Club and is captained by Susan J. Leo. Members include Gina Goforth Vitzthum, Caroline Macke, Yoonies Kim, Kerry Davis, Tracy Iler, Rosilene Campos Bleeg, Tracey Bracco, Tara Khoury, and Cecily T. Barclay.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com By Jody Morgan
Clip Notes
When the Pilgrims arrived in the New World, towering American chestnuts dominated the tree canopy accounting for 25% of the timber along the length of the Appalachian Range. Chestnuts fed wildlife throughout the forests and may well have figured into the first Thanksgiving feast. The meat is said to be sweeter than that of European or Asian chestnuts, but few living Americans have had the pleasure of tasting it. Growing faster than oaks, chestnuts provided reliable supplies of strong, straight-grained wood which is easy to saw and split. From fence posts to furniture and shingles to flooring, chestnuts supplied the needs of settlers as they moved from the Atlantic coast west to the Mississippi. The tannins that make the strong wood rot-resistant were used in the leather tanning industry. Although the table I use as a computer desk is made from American chestnut wood, the planks were originally cut before I was born. Like many interesting pieces now being crafted, my table is made from the repurposed siding of a 19th century barn. The weather outside was frightful in “The Christmas Song” (more readily recognizable to many of us by its subtitle “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire”) was written. It was a stifling summer day in 1944. Robert Wells decided writing about winter would help him beat the heat. Spotting a spiral notebook on Bob’s piano with cooling notations about “Jack Frost nipping at your nose” and “Folks dressed up like Eskimos,” Mel Torme got into the spirit. Together they completed music and lyrics in 40 minutes. Ironically in the previous 40 years the destruction of 99.9% of America’s native chestnut trees had been nearly completed, and no one was likely to be roasting any of the nuts over an open fire again soon. In 1904 a few exotic Asian Chestnut specimens were planted in the New York Zoological Park, now known as the Bronx Zoo. By mid-century 30 million acres of native trees had been killed by the bark-shattering fungus the imports carried. Having evolved over thousands of years in the company of the disease, the Asian trees were resistant to the devastation, but the American ones had no immunity. Isolated stands did survive. A 19th century settler named Martin Hicks planted a dozen trees in West Salem, Wisconsin. The grove had increased to 2,500 trees by 1987 when signs of the airborne blight were first discovered in his plantation. Although scientists are trying to arrest the spread of the disease, the greatest hope for a rebirth of the species comes from a botanical breeding process called backcrossing. Early in the 1950s, James Carpenter, a member of the Northern Nut Growers Association, spotted a disease-free tree amidst a stand of dying chestnuts in Salem, Ohio. Inoculating the tree with fungus spores over the course of several seasons did not make it sick. So Carpenter sent bud wood to Robert Dunstan, a fellow nut grower, in Greensboro, North Carolina. Dunstan crossed the American chestnut with disease-resistant Chinese chestnut selections. Once the trees finally bore fruit in 1962, he backcrossed the most desirable individuals with the parent American and Chinese trees. Dunstan hybrids are now producing successfully across the country. Horticulturalists are taking the process further. Selecting the most diseaseresistant specimens with the most American chestnut-like characteristics from each generation, they are gradually working hybridization backwards to the point where a blight-resistant tree that is 99.9% American chestnut will be available to be released back into the landscape. California has a long history of growing chestnuts dating back to the Gold Rush. You can visit American chestnuts in Chico where six trees planted in 1870 are still bearing. But the enterprising California nurseryman Felix Gillet created a European/Japanese hybrid in the 1870s called ‘Colossal’ that’s a current favorite from the Pacific to the Atlantic coasts. One of his original specimens stands 70 feet tall, is 14 feet around, and bears 300 pounds of nuts annually. Every family has a favorite Thanksgiving dish. Tired of hearing about chestnut stuffing every time I prepared a turkey, I finally managed to get a copy of the recipe my husband’s grandmother prepared in Pennsylvania. What a disappointment! Having recently researched the proper storage of chestnuts, I realize why my rendition of the recipe was so unappealing. Whether you want to roast them over an open fire or chop them into stuffing, freshness counts. Chestnuts can be canned, frozen or dried, but knowledgeable local growers and online suppliers have the best products.
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Contra Costa County Supervisor, District 2 Your Elected Officials are Talking Trash! By Supervisor Candace Andersen, Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors, District 2 Last month the Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority (CCCSWA) held public workshops in our community to talk about issues related to garbage and recycling, which is often referred to as “solid waste.” The CCCSWA is responsible for franchising solid waste services. Their service area encompasses the cities/towns of Alamo, Danville, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, and Walnut Creek, and unincorporated Contra Costa County. The objective of the workshops was to inform residents and businesses about what garbage, recycling, and other reuse programs will look like in coming years and to get feedback from the community to shape the future of recycling and solid waste programs. The CCCSWA outlined how the solid waste industry is changing. State law requires that 75% of all waste must be recycled by the year 2020. Recycling by businesses is now mandatory. New technology and innovative approaches are also impacting the industry. The current contracts with service providers will expire in February 2015. The Authority is beginning the process now, with feedback from the community, to determine what the next franchise agreement will include. They will take this input and develop agreements with service providers based on what the consumers need. The most common requests for new services include home composting, sharps disposal, curbside e-Waste recycling, and food scrap recycling in the green bins for areas of South County that do not already have that service. If you were not able to attend one of the public workshops, the CCCSWA still welcomes your input about waste pick-up services or recycling services via the feedback form on their website www.WasteDiversion.org. You may also call them directly at (925) 906-1801. I currently sit on the Board of CCCSWA and have been a member since 2007. The CCCSWA was formed in 1989 when the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District and cities decided to form a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) to consolidate administrative functions and find strategies to lower the solid waste and recycling costs to consumers. New services went into operation March 1, 1996, with the Board of Directors consisting of two members from each of the member agencies. By joining together, the Authority has been able to save residents 25% – 35% on rates over the years. In addition to weekly curbside service, CCCSWA has other recycling and waste management programs you can take advantage of: • Special Cleanup Days provide curbside collection of reusable items twice each year. You should receive a flyer two weeks before your cleanup date, or see the schedule at www.wastediversion.org. • Residents are also entitled to a once-a-year garbage pick-up of their choosing. To schedule it, call Allied Waste Services at (925) 603-1144 and press 2 to arrange an appointment. Extra recycling or green waste pick-ups can also be scheduled by calling Valley Waste Management at (925) 935-8900. • Prescription and over-the-counter medications that are no longer needed or have expired can be dropped off at the Town of Danville Police Department, 510 La Gonda Way, Danville. • Medical Sharps that might otherwise harm solid waste workers and others can also be properly disposed of by dropping them off at Alamo Sheriff’s Substation – 150 Alamo Plaza, Suite C, or Danville Police Department - 510 La Gonda Way. • Batteries should be recycled and not thrown in the trash receptacle. Below are drop off locations, or you can recycle batteries curbside during your twice-yearly reuse days: Alamo CVS/Pharmacy, 3158 Danville Blvd., Danville - CVS/Pharmacy, 650 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Radio Shack, 4808 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Walgreen’s, 611 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek CVS/Pharmacy, 1123
Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 21 S. California Blvd., CVS/Pharmacy, 1914 Tice Valley Blvd., Ditch the workout, JOIN THE PARTY! Radio Shack, 1537 N. Main GET IN SHAPE FOR THE Street, Ace Hardware, 611 San HOLIDAYS! Ramon Valley Blvd. • Currently, over one-third of the waste generated by Central Contra Costa County communities consists of yard and food THE LATIN-INSPIRED, waste. Organic waste material, EASY-TO-FOLLOW, like yard clippings and food CALORIE-BURNING, DANCE-FITNESS PARTY. scraps, can be given “new life” FEEL THE MUSIC through composting. CCSWA AND LET LOOSE. conducts workshops to teach residents how to reduce garbage Tue & Thu at 6:45pm and create healthy soil for plants Alamo Women’s Club through home composting. The 1401 Danville Blvd Punchcards on next scheduled workshop will Alamo, CA 94507 SALE NOW be on November 4th at the Lindthrough November say Wildlife Museum. Register 10-Class for $60 online at www.wastediversion. 20-Class for $100 For More Info, Contact org, or by calling (925) 906Janna Tang 1801 x306. Licensed Zumba Fitness Instructor The County and CCCSWA (925) 719-2443 / ZumbaAlamo@gmail.com continues to look at the idea of Find us on Facebook or Zumba.com a plastic bag ban. One reusable bag can eliminate thousands of single-use bags over its lifetime. I encourage you to bring your own bag when shopping, and recycle the plastic bags you do have in the recycling receptacles located outside most local grocery stores. Representatives from each of our cities are currently meeting to set rates for next year. Talk to your elected officials, and let them know what services are important to you. You are always welcome to join us at a future meeting of the Solid Waste Authority. The next meeting will be held at 3pm on December 13th at Walnut Creek City Hall, and future meeting dates can be found at www.wastediversion.org. Should you have any questions or other County issues you wish to discuss, please don’t hesitate to contact me. As your County Supervisor, I’m here to serve you. I can be reached at (925) 957-8860 or Candace.Andersen@bos.cccounty.us.
Walnut Creek Garden Club Walnut Creek Garden Club will hold its meeting on Monday, November 12th at 9:30am at the Gardens at Heather Farm in the Camellia room located at 1540 Marchbanks Rd. in Walnut Creek. The program is presented by the Ventana Wildlife Society and is called “Condor Reintroduction.” Guests and those interested in membership are welcome to attend this free event. Learn about the extreme efforts by the Ventana Wildlife Society to reintroduce the California condor back into the wild.
Assistance League Way Side Inn Thrift Shop’s Member volunteers at Assistance League® Way Side Inn Thrift Shop located at 3521 Golden Gate Way in Lafayette, will hit the ground running during the month of November. Tuesday, November 6th will be the launch day for the Silver Plate, Sterling, and Fine Linens Promotion. The 300 pieces of silver plate will include teapots, creamers, trays, platters, gravy boats, water pitchers, baby cups, bowls, and butter dishes. Sterling pieces, such as vases, picture frames, coaster sets, souvenir spoons, and baby utensils, will add sparkle to your home and make wonderful gifts for holidays. Imagine these lovely pieces sitting on fine linens, also available for purchase. A return visit during the week beginning November 13th is a must. You will find a wide selection of coats, bibs, gloves, mufflers, turtlenecks, goggles, and hats for those weekend getaways to the Sierra. Who said that skiing has to be expensive? On Tuesday, November 20th the Thrift Shop will again transform, this time into a “Yuletide Wonderland.” There will be brightly colored ornaments, garlands, wreaths, Santas, assorted holiday figures, and Christmas wrap. The Quirky Christmas Sweaters Promotion begins Tuesday, November 27th. When you support Assistance League Way Side Inn Thrift Shop with your generous donations and much appreciated purchases, you will improve the lives of those in our community who are vulnerable. To learn more about Assistance League of Diablo Valley and the eight philanthropic programs that the Way Side Inn Thrift Shop funds, visit diablovalley.assistanceleague.org.
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Page 22 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
Of Giving Ways...
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Winston Churchill once said, “We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” This is true no matter how grand or modest a contribution you can afford. And the fact is, your gift or bequest can have a significant and beneficial impact on the lives of others -- if you know how to give most effectively. A charitable gift of life insurance can multiply the impact of your donation many times over. A gift of life insurance allows you to leverage your gift and ensure that your own personal contribution impacts your charity directly in a way greater then you ever thought possible. Even if you have a limited discretionary cash flow, you can make a meaningful gift using a life insurance policy while the charity of your choice could receive a significant sum of money. Besides the good feeling that you will get from gifting to your charity, the other benefits are substantial. • You control the amounts that you gift to your charity. Your gift may be made over one, two or ten years. The amount that you gift is a charitable contribution for which you may receive an income tax charitable deduction, subject to limitations. • The amount that you gift is leveraged. The gifts to the charity that are used to pay life insurance premiums are only a fraction of the amount that the charity will receive at the maturity of the life insurance policy. • Since the policy is owned by the charity, all rights associated with the policy belong to the charity. Therefore, they may borrow from any cash values in the policy or take loans out on the policy. (Loans and borrowing from cash values reduces the death benefit.) The benefit to the charity is immediate. Even if you die today, the charity will receive the entire death proceeds from the policy, provided they haven’t borrowed against the policy. • A policy, which is owned from inception by the charity, is not an asset included in your estate at your death. Therefore, your estate has no legal or administrative charges associated with the gift to your charity.
Gift of an Existing Policy to a Charity If you have an existing life insurance policy that you wish to gift to your charity, there are some issues you may want to consider. In order to gift the policy, you must assign all rights and deliver the policy to the charity, retaining no interest in the policy. You may be eligible for an income tax charitable deduction based on the value of the policy transferred to charity. The value of the policy is the lesser of its fair market value or its cost basis. Depending on the nature of the charity, whether the gift is made “to” or “for the use of” the charity, the amount of your contribution base, adjusted gross income and the carry-forward provisions, your income tax charitable deduction may be limited.
Charity as Owner and Beneficiary of a New Policy Another alternative is to purchase or have your charity purchase a life insurance policy on your life, with your charity as owner and beneficiary. Your state law will dictate whether or not a charity has an insurable interest in a donor. If the purchase of life insurance by a charity is allowed by your state, then you
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can provide the funds to enable the charity to purchase the life insurance. Your charity will receive all rights under the life insurance policy. Therefore, it may take a loan, surrender the policy or change the beneficiary designation. Additionally, since your charity is the owner of the policy, none of the death proceeds will be included in your gross estate at your death. For the cost of the premium payments, you will be able to provide a significant gift to your charity. As with a gift of an existing policy, depending on the nature of the charity, whether the gift is made “to” or “for use of” the charity, the amount of your contribution base, your adjusted gross income and the carry forward provisions, your income tax deduction may be limited.
The Income Tax Charitable Deduction In all cases, your gift to a charity results in the availability of an income tax charitable deduction. There are deduction limitations, depending on the form of the gift. If you pay the premiums to the life insurance company itself, you will be eligible for an income tax charitable deduction subject to 30% of your adjusted gross income because the gift is “for the use of” the charity. If you gift the premium payments directly to your charity, your deduction limitation will be subject to 50% of your adjusted gross income because it is a direct gift “to” your charity. Any unused contribution deduction in excess of the 30% or 50% limits for that year can be carried forward in each of the five succeeding taxable years. In addition, most itemized deductions, including the charitable deduction, are subject to a phase-out at higher income levels.
Conclusion A gift of a new or existing life insurance policy to your charity enables you to donate a significant amount to your charity while actually gifting a lesser amount through the payment of premiums. Your charity receives the funds to carry on its good works and you receive the satisfaction of giving for all you have received. Please contact Peter Waldron to schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation, call 925-659-0383, or email peter.waldron@lfg.com.
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Real Estate Succession Planning II By Robert J. Silverman, Attorney at Law
Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 23
Danville H&R Block Still Open by Appointment
The deadline for extension filing has come and gone. I am proud to
I opened this topic in last month’s article (“Real Estate say we helped a tremendous amount of people file their 2011 income Succession Planning I”), listing a few situations in which taxes on time. It was great getting to know so many new people in the area and do tax planning with many of you. making a specific bequest of property, particularly to I am available the rest of the year for any tax needs you have, one of multiple children, is worth serious consideration. just call and set an appointment at 925-820-9570. This is an excelHere, I’ll elaborate by outlining a few pertinent lent time to discuss your situations as I will have no other clients property tax reassessment rules. I’ll show how these and plenty of time for anyone who comes in. There is no charge for rules can easily cause a burdensome increase in propany of the planning we do or discussions we have, I love doing it. erty taxes. I’ll also demonstrate how the strategic use Bob Shalon, EA of the rules in an estate plan can result in a remarkable, Master Tax Advisor • Enrolled Agent positive difference for those inheriting a property. Real estate transfers involve many moving parts, including personal circumstances 925.820.9570 and potential tax (e.g. income, estate & gift, and property tax) liability. It is wise to 714 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Suite B, Danville Sycamore Square (next to Lucky’s) | bob.shalon@tax.hrblock.com evaluate and obtain sound advice from experienced professionals (e.g. legal, tax, real estate, and financial) before transferring any property. This holds true regardless of whether the transfer will be by lifetime gift or sale, or testamentary bequest. Below are a few relevant California property tax reassessment rules (oversimplified) [see CA Revenue & Taxation Code Section 63.1]. 1. Principal residences: Any parent to child (or child to parent) transfer is entitled to an unlimited reassessment exemption. Assuming required forms are completed and submitted timely to the County Assessor, property taxes remain the same in the hands of the child (or children) to whom a property is transferred as when the parent owned it. 2. Non-principal residence property(ies), transfers between parents and children are entitled to a reassessment exemption up to an aggregate maximum (for all such non-principal residence property transfers) of $1 million in assessed value. Given the prevalence of intra-family principal residence transfers, I’ll focus on the principal residence rules. You’ll see contrasting examples that demonstrate how beneficial it can be to structure your estate plan to synchronize optimally with these rules. Hypothetical facts regarding your principal residence and other assets: a) You bought your home forty (40) years ago; b) current “Prop. 13” assessed value (i.e. value reflected on the property tax rolls for your home) is $200,000; c) the home’s fair market value is $1,000,000; d) you have a $200,000 mortgage; thus $800,000 of home equity; e) you have cash, stocks and bonds (“liquid assets”) totaling $800,000; and f) you have two (2) children - one living in the Bay Area and one settled on the East Coast - and the child living here would like to own your home upon your death. If you establish a typical Living Trust, it would likely state simply that half of your assets go to each child upon your death. On your death, the successor trustee might (depending on a number of provisions in your Living Trust) sell the property, In Stone Valley Shopping Center which would be unfortunate for the local child. Instead, the trustee might offer the home to the local child and credit the equity ($800,000) toward that child’s one half share, and the other child would be given the liquid assets of equal value ($800,000). Assuming the trustee is authorized to, and does, transfer the home to the local Enjoy Our Patio Dining child, the assessor will likely determine that the transaction essentially involved a transfer of: i) one half of the property by you, the parents, to the local child; and Monday - Saturday: Lunch and Dinner ii) one half of the property from the East Coast child to the local child. The harsh Sunday: Dinner only We Offer a Full Bar and Lounge result is that the half characterized as a sibling-sibling transfer is not entitled to 3168 Danville Blvd, Alamo Margaritas are a House Specialty any exemption, and it is reassessed. Here is the monetary difference: A) The assessed value of the exempt half stays the same. Half of the current $200,000 as- Rotary continued from front page sessed value = $100,000. At the applicable rate (about 1%) this translates into approximately There have been many Alamo residents who have volunteered to $1,000/yr. in property tax. help with this project. Landscape architect John Montgomery has doB) The assessed value of the non-exempt half is reassessed at half of the then current fair nated his time and talent to develop a landscape plan. In addition Pat market value of $1,000,000 ($500,000), with property tax payable at $5,000/yr. Murphy, owner of Devil Mountain Wholesale Nursery, has volunteered C) The new assessed value (adding both halves) is $600,000, resulting in total property to sell plants at his cost to the Rotary Club. This is an incredible savtax payable at $6,000/yr. ing and goes a long way to making this plan a reality. Peggy Conklin, So, with a commonly drafted Living Trust, the local child pays $6,000/yr. in property taxes. President of East Bay Blue Star Moms, arranged for permission for Alternatively, if the Living Trust states (among other important clauses) that the local child the Rotary Club to decorate the PG&E boxes. The biggest and most is to receive 100% of the home and the other child is to receive 100% of the liquid assets, important support came from the Alamo MAC. They approved funding the whole transaction should be an exempt parent-child transfer. Thus, the local child would for this project without which it would have remained only a dream. enjoy the home with the same low $2,000/yr. property taxes that you, the parent, enjoyed. The Alamo MAC at that time consisted of Chairman David Bowlby, Mr. Silverman is an attorney with Buchman Provine Brothers Smith LLP, 1333 N. CaliVice-Chairman Mike McDonald, Janet Miller Evans, Ed Best, Steve fornia Street, Suite 350, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 944-9700; rsilverman@sbllp.com. His practice emphasizes Estate Planning, Trust Administration & Probate, Real Estate, and Mick, and 2012 Alamo’s Citizen of the year, Nancy Dommes. The club has also received donations from concerned citizens of Alamo. Business. Mr. Silverman offers a free introductory consultation. If you have any questions about this project or if you’d like to help 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. volunteer, call Rotary Club member Dick Olsen at (925) 855-1598 or This communication is not intended or written to be used, for the purpose of: i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code; or ii) promoting, marketing, or recommending to another party any matters addressed herein. Advertorial email richard.olsen1940@sbcglobal.net.
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Page 24 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
L! SHOP LOCA
Our September mixer was held at Oak Hill Farm, the lovely home of Roberta Morris as well as that of select special events. Oak Hill Farm is an entertaining delight and a well kept secret. Without a website‌ word of mouth is the only way to learn of this hidden gem, and the Alamo chamber members and guests were among the chosen few. Special thanks to the Diablo Business referral network, heading it up, head Chef Paul Sween, Coldwell Banker, Dale Price, Membership Chair Gary Mills Remax/Accord Realtors, Clay Selland, and Hostess Roberta Morris Signet Mortgage, Sharon Nasstrom, Protected Investors of America, Leslie Firth, Firth Designs, Theresa Fitch, Hewitt, Jones & Fitch, Michael Linenberger, New Academy Publishers & Seminars, and Richard Wood, E-paynow.com, for their excellent hospitality SURYLGLQJ %%4 7UL 7LS VDQGZLFKHV ZLWK DOO WKH ¿[LQJV SRWDWR VDODG DQG FRRNLHV THANK YOU RAFFLE PRIZE DONORS!
Alamo World Travel & Tours, Celebrations On The Bay, Don Jose’s Mexican Restaurant, and The New Forli Ristorante & Bar! Your donations provide ¿QDQFLDO VXSSRUW IRU RXU DQQXDO +LJK 6FKRRO 6WXGHQWV 6FKRODUVKLS $ZDUGV ANNUAL TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY SUNDAY DECEMBER 2ND 4:30 to 6:30 Andrew Young Park. Enjoy Music By Students From All Of Our Schools! See Santa! Lots Of Food! A Great Event To Begin The Holidays!
Andrea Scott Honored As Our September Member of the Month! Long-time member Andrea Scott has contributed much to the Chamber Board’s work in supporting our Chamber members and the community. Andrea is an expert in the Alamo real estate market and provides her clients with the best information to make crucial real estate decisions through changing markets. She uses her background as an Economist and her professional experience to produce exceptional results every time. Our Chairman’s Message The Alamo Chamber of Commerce cares about your business. This Is a great time to get involved in your community. There is always something going on and together we can make a difference. Find how you cn help on some of the upcoming events and bring a business partner to the next mixer or event. This is a great way to get the word out out on your business. Come join the excitement. See you soon, Keith Gilbert, Chairman Last month we had great article about why all of us should be spending more money in our Alamo Community. It was written by Ed Baxter of Ed Baxter Media. We neglected to tell you about Ed, and why the Chamber is so lucky to have Ed as a member helping us “bring business homeâ€? Ed Baxter is a member of the Bay Area Radio Hall of Fame, and best known as Anchor/Host of morning and afternoon news programs on KGO Radio from 1976-2011. His current show, “Making Senseâ€? can be heard M-F on Newstalk 910. As Ed promises, he makes it simple. Your story told‌‌your message understood. Contact Ed and bring business home. www.edbaxtermedia.com.
The Alamo Community Invited to Ou Next Mixer! Check isour website Please Join Us on November 14th: 5:30 to 7:30. www.alamochamberofcommerce.com Union Bank Blvd. & Stone Valley Rd. West for- Danville upcoming Mixer locations!
The local businesses of Alamo and the Alamo Chamber of Commerce would like to remind you to Shop Local this Holiday season‌
#1: Buy local to support yourself - Studies show that when you buy from an independent, locally owned business, rather than a nationally owned business, significantly more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses, service providers, and farms which continues to strengthen the economic base of the community. #2: Keep our community unique - Where we shop, where we eat and have fun – all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character of Alamo. #3: Be friendly to our environment - Locally owned businesses can make more local purchases requiring less transportation and generally set up shop in town centers as opposed to developing on the fringe. This generally means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution. #4: Local businesses create more jobs - Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally and in our community, provide the most jobs to residents. #5: Get better service - Local businesses often hire people with a better understanding of the products they are selling and take more time to get to know customers. #6: Put your taxes to good use - Local businesses require comparatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services as compared to nationally owned stores entering the community. #7: Invest in the community - Local businesses are owned by people who live in this community, are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community’s future. #8: Support community groups- Non-profit organizations like your Alamo Chamber of Commerce receive an average of 250% more support from smaller business owners than they do from large businesses. #9: Competition leads to more choices - A marketplace of small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products based not on a national sales plan but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, guarantees a much broader range of product choices. #10: Encourage future investment - A growing body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character. Please visit www.shopalamo94507.com for more information.
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 25
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Parks continued from front page fields. I smiled to myself and thought, ‘If you only knew.’ Back in 1974, the Valley was about one year away from not having any parks at all, and only quick action from a handful of concerned residents saved four of the five remaining major sites in the Valley for future parks.” Although the subject of setting aside suitable parcels of land for parks was first raised in the 1960s, the question did not appear on a ballot until April 1972. Proponents of the measure conducted a survey that indicated 87.5% of respondents favored park development. Only 34% of the San Ramon Valley’s 9,559 registered voters turned out to record their preference. The Parks and Recreation measure was defeated by a vote of 1,894 opposed to 1,394 in favor. At that time, a decade before any of the towns incorporated, the San Ramon Valley was a single political area including Alamo, Danville, and much of what is now San Ramon. When Sandy Myers moved to Danville from Oregon in 1971, the closest park she could visit with her two pre-school children was Heather Farm in Walnut Creek. She remembers that Danville’s only stop sign at that time was at the intersection of Hartz Avenue and Diablo Road. But, Danville’s population had increased from 3,585 in 1960 prior to the opening of I-680 to 14,059 by 1970 (reported that year as Alamo-Danville). Developers were gobbling up real estate at an alarming rate. By 1980 Danville alone logged 26,446 residents. Myers was among the handful of people who recognized that time was running out on the area’s ability to preserve large tracts of open space for community parks. Land that was good for parks was equally desirable to developers. She responded to a newspaper notice inviting anyone who wanted to see parks in the Valley to attend a meeting at the home of Joe and Roz Hirsch. Attendees formed the Valley Committee for Parks (VCP), electing Bob Beratta of Diablo and Ed Best of Alamo as co-chairmen. Their goals were to get a proposal for a San Ramon Valley County Park Service Area on the June 1974 ballot and to secure funding in addition to the $153,000 of county park dedication money available once the Valley Service Area was established. Adopting the slogan “Parks Are Forever,” VCP scheduled meetings with homeowner groups, PTAs, and community and service organizations. VCP set up neighborhood coffees. On June 4, 1974 the Valley passed both the R-7 County Park
Service Area proposal and a park tax levy of 25-cents per $100 of property valuation. The Citizens Advisory Committee for County Service Area R-7 (R-7 Committee) took over the task of identifying land for purchase and developing parks in the Valley. In their quest for 20-40 acre spaces, they commissioned an aerial survey of the Valley. Of the five major parcels they immediately spotted, four are parks today thanks to their quick action. The R-7 Committee developed Oak Hill Park first followed by Osage Station Park. When Danville and San Ramon incorporated in 1982 and 1983 respectively, the southernmost parcel purchased became part of San Ramon’s Central Park, while Danville’s Park and Leisure Services Commission completed negotiations to establish Hap Magee Ranch Park. Unincorporated Alamo remains in the county’s R-7 A Service Area. The R-7 Committee also developed the small park on Danville’s Front Street and contributed to the completion of several recreation areas adjacent to local schools. Tom Hanson’s role as Service Area Administrator involved ensuring that the County Board of Supervisors followed through promptly on decisions made by the R-7 Committee. The race to secure appropriate land before well-funded developers rendered it unaffordable was not always won by the R-7 Committee. Federal funding aided in the purchase of Oak Hill Park’s 43-acre space. Land adjacent to the proposed site of Charlotte Wood Middle School was identified by the Contra Costa County Flood Control District as part of a 100-year flood risk zone putting the purchase price within the R-7 Committee’s budget. The playing fields at the 35-acre Osage Station Park are designed in a bowl to mitigate the effects of a flood. Following the December 31, 2005 storm that pounded Danville with 4.72 inches of rain in a 12-hour period, Mark Boucher, Sr., Contra Costa County Hydrologist, explained: “Statistically a 100-year flood has a 26% chance of occurring during the life of a 30-year mortgage for a house in a flood hazard area.” During the event deemed by its intensity to be a 50-year storm, a fallen tree dammed the creek that New Year’s Eve flooding both Charlotte Wood Middle School and Osage Station Park. Today a higher berm along the western side of the creek protects the school from future flood damage. Sensitive to diverse needs within the community, the R-7 Committee held meetings soliciting input. As reported in the Contra Costa Times on January 30,
See Parks continued on page 30
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Page 26 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
Alamo Improvement Association By Roger Smith, Board President Great California “Shake-Out” Emergency management experts and other official preparedness organizations all agree that “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” is the appropriate action to reduce injury and death during earthquakes. The annual Shake Out, which occurred on October 18th, is our opportunity to practice how to protect ourselves during earthquakes.
Protect yourself – Spread the Word Official rescue teams who have been dispatched to the scene of earthquakes and other disasters around the world continue to advocate use of the internationally recognized “Drop, Cover, and Hold On” protocol to protect lives during earthquakes. 1) DROP to the ground - before the earthquake drops you! 2) Take COVER by getting under a sturdy desk or table. 3) HOLD ON to it until the shaking stops. Note: If there isn’t a table or desk near you, drop to the ground inside a corner of the building and cover your head and neck with your hands and arms. Do not try to run to another room just to get under a table. Visit www.ShakeOut.org and www.dropcoverholdon.org for more information.
Cyber Threats A recent article Moneynews business periodical quoted U.S Defense Secretary Leon Panetta as saying that the Pentagon and American Intelligence Agencies are seeing an increase in cyber threats that could become as devastating as the September 2001 attacks if they are not stopped. Panetta offered the highest-level confirmation to date of recent cyber attacks on U.S. computer networks. Attackers “are targeting the computer control systems that operate chemical, electricity, and water plants and those that guide transportation throughout the county, he told the annual awards dinner of Business Executives for National Security. “We know of specific instances where intruders have successfully gained access to these control systems,” Panetta said. “We also know they are seeking to create advanced tools to attack these systems and cause panic, destruction, and even the loss of life.” It is important to be prepared for all emergencies, including those that are cyber related.
Public Safety Committee AIA is interested in attracting Alamo residents with suitable career experience in “First Responder” categories to volunteer time on our Public Safety Committee. Please contact AIA at President@AlamoCA.org.
Neighborhood Watch Interested in enhancing communication with your neighbors and neighborhood groups? AIA is interested in helping establish a network of interested representatives from various neighborhoods and neighborhood groups in Alamo to discuss the Neighborhood Watch program and its benefits. Please contact AIA at President@AlamoCA.org. Not a member of AIA? Consider joining and “help us, help you” and the rest of the Alamo community. Visit www.AlamoCA.org for more information and a membership form. Alamo Improvement Association is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
Sea Serpents continued from front page Sea Serpent athletes represent a range in abilities and ages. The youngest swimmers work one-on-one with a coach in the shallow pool in order to become comfortable in the water. They then move on to the learn-to-swim program. At the other end of the spectrum, older, more accomplished swimmers participate in an organized practice with varied sets. Volunteer coaches must be 8th grade age or older, and they must commit to participating in a minimum 80% of the practices for each season. The Sea Serpent’s official season, funded by Special Olympics Northern California (SONC), runs March through June, at which time the athletes participate in a Bay Areawide meet at Laney College in Oakland. The fall season (Labor Day through the first weekend in November) is optional, and it is funded by charitable donations. (SONC halted fall funding due to budgetary constraints.) In 2011 the OMPASwimming League funded the fall season, and this year members of Moraga Country Club Swim Team held a swim-a-thon, the results of which are fully funding this 2012 fall season. As Silverfoote sought a few years ago to ease her commitment in order to spend more time with family, particularly a new grandson, she began to lean on regular volunteer Brian Wentzel, a Lafayette resident who had been active with Sea Serpents for several years. Last year, Wentzel took over as head of the program. Silverfoote continues to provide support and direction as needed. Working with Sea Serpents is a family-oriented activity for the Wentzels. Brian’s wife Deanna is the team photographer, and their two high school aged sons are involved in coaching and instructing. Their 12 year-old daughter also enjoys the Sunday afternoon practices and is often found poolside encouraging and cheering the athletes. Wentzel, a director of national accounts for a foodservice beverage division of Nestlé, provides direction to the more than 30 weekly volunteers and handles the administrative aspects of the program. “Sea Serpents really pulls together a lot of opportunities and experiences for me,” says Wentzel. “First and foremost, being a swimmer myself, it feels great to be able to give back to others in the sport that I love and which has been a big part of our family as well. Seeing our athletes swim best times at meets, or learn a new stroke, and “high-five” a coach because “I did it!” makes it all worthwhile. And, it’s great to be involved in a program that the coach/volunteers actually
look forward to each week. I think a lot of other community service activities for our high school youth might just feel like checking a box. Working with the Sea Serpent athletes provides so much more. I think our volunteers walk away with a sense of fulfillment and accomplishment.” Miramonte junior Jack Garrett has been a volunteer coach for two and a half years. His empathy for those with special needs led him to the program. He guides the athletes in stretches, helps them put on goggles, and teaches stroke technique and how to push off the wall. As a swimmer and water polo player himself, he is accustomed to taking instruction rather than giving, and he enjoys being on the other side for a change. “I really like helping the kids and interacting with them, and when I break down technique for them, I find that it actually helps my own swimming. I really like interacting with the athletes. It’s pretty fun and I’ve made a lot of friends. It’s a blast.” “The high school coaches are a real asset to the team,” says Alamo resident Linda Knowles, whose two grown sons Trevor and John have participated for years as athletes in the program. “I think that working with the special needs community has taught the young coaches so much! A few of the coaches have even gone on to study Special Ed in college because of their work with Sea Serpents.” Trevor Knowles, 23, a 2007 graduate of San Ramon Valley High School and now a cashier at Taco Bell, started swimming with Special Olympics when he was five years old. He joined the Sea Serpents several years ago mostly due to the excellent coaching staff. “I love the workouts and seeing the coaches,” says Trevor. “I also really like seeing my friends. Swimming with the Sea Serpents has shown me that I have become a really good swimmer over the years.” Trevor’s brother John, 26, just recently graduated from the Transition to Independent Living (TIL) program at Taft College and is now living on his own in Danville and continuing to frequent the Sunday afternoon workouts. “To me, the program shows that I can do anything if I work hard at it, regardless of my disabilities,” says John. “Swimming has been wonderful for my boys,” says Linda. “The Sea Serpents is a great program.” For more information on the Sea Serpent program, visit www. eastbayseaserpents.org.
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 27
Your Personal Nutritionist
By Linda Michaelis, RD. MS. Enjoying Restaurants the Healthy Way
Enjoying restaurants can be part of a healthy weight loss plan. It is important to have a strategy to not fall off of the wagon. I often visit restaurant websites with my clients and help them select the best entree or appetizers for that day according to their tastes and what else they ate that day. Often I will call ahead to a restaurant and talk to the manager to find out the specials and soup of the day. Clients have told me as a result of our pre-planning they often do not even open the menu because they already know what they will order. The first goal is to be able to order at restaurants without feeling deprived. A critical tip is to not arrive too hungry to the restaurant. We all know the painful feeling of being hungry and then overeating to the point where we feel uncomfortably full. If you are not too hungry, you may want to order an appetizer and a salad or maybe two appetizers. Alternatively, you may order your normal number of courses and either split it with a friend or take half home. Ask for a doggie bag at the beginning of the meal so that you make sure you stick to your plan. Some great choices for appetizers are mussels or clams in wine sauce, oysters, crab cakes, shrimp cocktail, gourmet salad with a sprinkle of cheese and nuts and light vinaigrette, grilled prawns, chicken satay, ceviche, ahi tuna tartare, or even a soup like minestrone or vegetable that is not full of noodles or cream. Think about transforming an entree into an appetizer portion such as by having lamb chops minus the mashed potatoes. Have some sauteed greens and enjoy a slice of crusty, fresh baguette. Watch those delicious caesar salads where between the croutons, cheese, and dressing there is often too much fat. If you take the option of splitting an entrée, such as fettuccine alfredo, I suggest ordering double veggies, starting with a minestrone or tomato basil soup, and skipping the bread. The best entrées to order for dinner are grilled fish, with a double serving of veggies and no starch so bread can be enjoyed along with a cocktail. I would leave the more oily salmon, sea bass, swordfish, trout dishes for lunch and eat the less oily petrale sole, halibut, cod, tilapia, scallops, shrimp, and ahi tuna for dinner. You might think that ordering chicken is healthy, but that is often not true. Typically the chicken you find at upscale spots has been marinated in oils and is as rich as store bought rotisserie chicken. If you are a meat fan enjoy a petit filet, a beef kebab, or even veal marsala or scallopini which are great choices. They typically are served in smaller portions. There is always the option of scanning the menu and asking for an entrée such as a petit filet with a baked potato instead of mashed potatoes or even sauteed spinach instead of creamed spinach. You are eliminating an incredible amount of fat with making simple substitutions. In Japanese restaurants miso soup is great to start with. Try sunomono (cucumber salad) or seaweed salad to prevent you from eating more than a reasonable cup of rice. Your sushi rolls should not contain more than one cup of rice. You can tell the server to add more cucumbers instead of the rice. Also, try seafood nobe, chicken yakitori, or even chicken teriyaki as long as it is white meat only. For Chinese food your best options are snow white chicken (white meat only), shrimp, scallops, calamari, or even lean beef with veggies such as snow peas, broccoli, or string beans and up to a cup of brown rice. Order entrees with low fat content. Clients tell me they notice a difference. Try your kid’s chow mein or enjoy one pot sticker. You can also order a cup of hot and sour soup and then take home half of your entrée. It heats up nicely for lunch the next day. I always tell my clients to assess their hunger when walking into the restaurant, and make sure your head is attached to your stomach. It is easy to go with your eyes and nose without paying attention to your appetite. If you want to focus on dessert, just be social and order a simple salad as an entrée, and delight in having a yummy dessert. If you had a small appetite to begin with then you will walk out of the restaurant having a light feeling and sleep well that night. You should be able to continue enjoying one of life’s goodies – great restaurants – and still eat sensibly. My services are often covered by insurance. Please see my website for more information. Feel free to call me at (925) 855-0150 or e-mail me at Lifeweight1@yahoo. com and tell me about your nutritional concerns. Refer to my website www.LindaRD.com for past articles, recipes and nutrition tips in my blog section. Advertorial
Causes of Pigment Loss By Dr. Kelly Hood
Dr. Kelly Hood, Lafayette
One of the most common concerns patients have surrounds pigment loss. There are many causes of lightening of the skin. Most people are concerned that they have a fungal infection or “Michael Jackson disease.” These conditions can be a particularly distressing cosmetic problem in dark-skinned individuals. A patient with vitiligo suggested that an article on loss of pigment could be helpful for many our readers.
Vitiligo Vitiligo is known as the “Michael Jackson disease.” Vitiligo is a disorder in which patients have a characteristic loss of pigment or skin color. Any part of the skin may be involved. It is a common disorder affecting approximately 1% of the population. About 20% of people who develop vitiligo experience some pigment loss before age 20. Most people are in good general health. Sometimes vitiligo can be associated with other autoimmune conditions such as thyroid disease or hair loss. The cause of vitiligo is unknown. Most people experience a rapid loss of pigment followed by a prolonged period in which the pigment remains stable. The combination of pigment loss followed by periods of stability may go on for many years. Only rarely does a patient with vitiligo repigment spontaneously. Prescription treatments are available in some instances. Sunscreen is vital as the skin has no protection from the natural pigment cells. The skin can cosmetically be colored with self tanning lotion.
Tinea Versicolor Natural yeast that lives in all of our skin causes tinea versicolor. It usually presents as white spots on the trunk that may extend to the upper arms. A fine scale is present. The lesions usually show a loss of pigment, but they may occasionally
have a yellowish or brown color. Rarely the face is involved. When the conditions are right in the skin, such as increased oil or pH, the natural yeast can overgrow causing these lesions. Treatment consists of antifungal creams or shampoos. In resistant cases, antifungal pills are prescribed. The yeast is treated before the color improves. The persistent lightness or darkness of the lesions does not necessarily indicate treatment failure.
Pityriasis Alba This condition of hypopigmentation shows round to oval patches most commonly on the face although the Dr. Shanny Baughman, Alamo upper arms, neck, or shoulders can be affected. The color is white to light pink. The scales are fine. As a rule P. alba is asymptomatic, but it can occasionally itch. It chiefly occurs in children or teenagers. Dry skin seems to be contributory. Most of the lesions tend to disappear with time. Repigmentation can usually be accelerated with treatment generally consisting of moisturizing and proper cleansing. Healing occurs over weeks with treatment.
Halo Nevus Halo nevus is characterized by a mole with a surrounding white ring. The mole is usually normal looking with a sharp border and brown pigment. These lesions most commonly develop in teenagers. Treatment is not indicated. Over time the central mole usually disappears. The white area will remain depigmented for an unpredictable time, but eventually repigmentation will take place. Very rarely these lesions can be associated with melanoma elsewhere on the body. A trip to the dermatologist is usually indicated. Depigmentation of the skin has several causes. Please give us a call to accurately diagnose your condition. For any questions about your skin or nails please contact Dr. Kelly Hood, 970 Dewing, Suite 301, Lafayette, 925-283-5500, khoodderm@yahoo.com or Dr. Shanny Baughman at Alamo Oaks Dermatology, 3189 Danville Blvd, suite 130, Alamo, 925-362-0992, shanny.derm@gmail.com. Advertorial
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Page 28 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
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Grief Support Group Helps People Cope with the Death of a Pet When you lose your pet, you often feel like a part of you is lost. The death of your beloved animal companion is one of the most difficult losses you may ever feel. This loss is sometimes made more painful by society’s seeming lack of support for pet grief. Hospice of the East Bay and the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation is offering a support group where participants can share memories and feelings and talk to others who truly understand and care. Meetings will be held the first Tuesday of each month from noon - 1:30PM at the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. For further information and/or to register, please call Bereavement Services at Hospice of the East Bay (925) 887-5681. Pre-registration is required. Hospice of the East Bay Bereavement Services are provided free of charge to all community members in need. However, donations are greatly appreciated.
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Cancer Support Community The Cancer Support Community will hold the following free classes at their facility located at 3276 McNutt Ave, Walnut Creek. For information or reservations, call (925) 933-0107.
Frankly Speaking About Colorectal Cancer Tuesday, November 6th ~ 6PM – 8PM Learn about current colorectal cancer treatments, symptom/side effect management, strategies, the social and emotional challenges of the diagnosis, and survivorship issues specific to people with colorectal cancer. Presented by Robert Robles, MD a medical oncologist with Diablo Valley Oncology.
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Tuesday, November 13th ~ 6:30PM – 8PM This workshop will address the range of emotions experienced by people affected by cancer (and their loved ones). Psychological and physiological aspects of diagnosis, treatment, and post-treatment periods will be discussed. Deciding when it may be helpful to use psychotherapy or medications can be challenging and will be a focus of the workshop. Facilitated by Dr. Burton Presberg, MD, a psychiatrist in private practice who specializes in working with cancer patients and their families. For cancer patients, their families, and friends.
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Tuesday, November 20th ~ 6PM – 8PM This workshop covers the latest treatments for lung cancer. Side effects, side effect management, and tools to overcome the social and emotional challenges of the diagnosis will be discussed. Your questions about lung cancer will be addressed to help you manage the disease more successfully. Presented by Saurin Shah, MD, a thoracic surgeon with John Muir Health. For cancer patients, their families, and friends.
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 29
Wear Your Pink Shoes Proudly By Barbara Persons, MD, Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. On days that I am scheduled to operate (3 or 4 days a week), my attire is comfortably predictable - scrubs and my favorite pair of clogs. The clogs happen to be pink, and I am often asked, “Why the pink shoes?” I usually respond by simply tugging up my pant leg a bit to reveal the familiar pink ribbon logo used by so many worthy causes that support Breast Cancer research and education. I don’t think about breast cancer for one month out of the year -- I think about it every day. Reconstructive surgery makes up a good portion of my practice. I feel so fortunate that my practice allows me to actively participate in the care and treatment of many breast cancer patients. As a staff member at John Muir Hospital, I participate in weekly Tumor Board meetings, often as a panelist. The cases presented at these meetings help us coordinate excellent treatment plans for our patients, and they demonstrate that breast cancer does not spare any particular demographic. One in nine women will be diagnosed with breast cancer including the elderly, the 28 year old newlywed, the healthiest fitness guru, the couch potato, the vibrant career woman, and the mother, pregnant with her first child. Like most cancers, early detection is key to a successful outcome in breast cancer patients. All too often breast cancer is discovered in advanced stages, requiring surgery and breast reconstruction along with radiation and chemotherapy. The physical toll of breast cancer is costly enough, but the emotional toll of losing our breasts can be devastating. I am fortunate to be part of the team of people who make a positive impact in breast cancer patients’ lives by giving back to them something they thought was lost. Through advances and innovations in technique as well as new surgical materials, artful reconstruction of the breast has become a reality. Reconstructive breast surgery is now routinely performed at the same time as the mastectomy in close coordination with the general surgeon, enabling women to wake up from surgery with breasts. In some cases the nipples and surrounding areolas can be saved as well. The emotional testimonials and thanks I receive from my breast cancer patients feed my soul. I am continually amazed by the strength and courage these women possess through such tragic circumstances. I recently had the pleasure of seeing a 60 year old woman who was told she could not have her breast reconstructed after mastectomy 10 years ago because of thin skin. Now, with new techniques and materials, she will soon have breasts again. She will feel whole. The theme behind the breast cancer campaign is education and awareness. Realize that breast cancer affects us all. Please take the time to educate yourself, perform self breast exams every month, and please don’t delay your routine mammogram screening. To find instructions on how to perform a breast self-examination, please visit our website at www.personsplasticsurgery.com. Support the efforts of wonderful organizations like Susan G. Komen or the Avon Foundation. Join me in wearing your pink shoes proudly every day. Dr. Barbara Persons is a Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She may be reached at 925.283.4012 or drbarb@ personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial
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November is Lung Cancer Awareness Month By Gigi Chen, MD
Lung cancer accounts for about 14% of all cancer diagnosis. However, it is responsible for almost 29% of all cancer deaths. Lung cancer is the leading cause of cancer death for both men and women in the U.S. In 2012, an estimated 226,200 new cases of lung cancer will be diagnosed. The incidence and death rates have been decreasing for men, but had been rising for women until around the year 2000 when they began to level off. The major cause of lung cancer is smoking, which is responsible for 85% to 90% of lung cancer. Other risk factors include environmental and occupational exposures such as asbestos, radon, air pollution, radiation, and second hand tobacco. More than 95% of lung cancer consists of one of the four major types: squamous, adenocarcinoma, large cell, or small cell cancer. Squamous, adenocarcinoma, and large cell are together called non-small cell lung cancer. Adenocarcinoma comprises of 50% of lung cancer in the U.S. The most common symptoms patients experience are decreased appetite, fatigue, weakness, and cough. Currently most patients with lung cancer are diagnosed at an advanced stage. There has been recent promising data in the area of lung cancer screening. The National Lung Cancer Screening trial enrolled 53,000 current or former heavy smokers and showed that screening high-risk patients with low dose CT decreased mortality from lung cancer by 20% compared to chest Xray. High risk patients are either current or former smokers with 30 pack year smoking history, aged 55 to 74 years. The International Early Lung Cancer Action Program (I-ELCAP) assessed whether annual screening with low dose CT can increase early detection in patients at risk for lung cancer. They found that if lung cancer is detected in stage I and promptly removed, the 10 year survival is 92%. These trials suggest that early screening can decrease the risk of death from lung cancer in high risk patients. Treatment of lung cancer requires a collaborative effort between patients and their medical oncologist, thoracic surgeons, and radiation oncologist. Treatment strategies for non-small cell lung cancer can include surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation or a combination of these methods. Treatment for small cell lung cancer typically involves chemotherapy or combined chemotherapy and radiation. There are a number of new and exciting drugs for lung cancer that can target cancer at a molecular level. Erlotinib is an oral drug that works effectively in patients with EGFR mutation, which can be found in up to 50% of Asian patients and about 10% Caucasian patients. Another example is Crizotinib, which is effective in patients with tumor express EML4-ALK rearrangement, which occurs in about 10,000 patients in the U.S. Bevacizumab and Cetuximab, which are monoclonal antibodies, can be used in conjunction with chemotherapy in newly diagnosed non-small cell lung cancer. Understanding lung cancer genomics and biology will enable development of mediOur mission is to provide personalized care, help cines that are more effective and have fewer side effects. maintain independence and enhance our November is National Lung Cancer Awareness client’s quality of life on a daily basis. Month, and our cancer center has arranged to offer com• Free in-home assessments • Regular home visits plimentary consultants for screening during the week ensure the right care plan • Hourly care of November 12-16. To learn more about this lung cancer for you • Live-in care awareness program, please call 925-826-1900. • Fully bonded and insured • Geriatric care mgmt. Dr. Chen is board certified in medical oncology and he• Elder referral and placement matology and practices with Diablo Valley Oncology, located 3645 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Suite D at the California Cancer and Research Institute in Pleasant Lafayette, CA 94549 (beside Trader Joe’s) 925-284-1213 Hill. She treats all forms of cancer and blood disorders and hasaspecialinterestinlungandgynecologiccancer. Advertorial
Page 30 - November 2012 ~ Alamo Today
The Eye Opener By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry Giving Thanks Now that we are getting close to Thanksgiving and the holiday season, it is the time of year when we show our appreciation for our family, friends, and any other people or things that are important to us. These can range anywhere from a nice neighbor that helps out watching our children from time to time, our favorite sports team, our job or business, and our health. Speaking from a personal standpoint, there are many things that I am thankful and happy for. First and foremost, my wife and children are at the top of the list. These three ladies in my life definitely are the most important things to me. I am sure most people would also put this as their top of their list, but for me it is worth all of the daily triumphs and difficulties to have a wonderful, caring family. They make the daily grind worth it; as much as I love my job, I look forward to going home every evening even more. Our health is absolutely the second thing on my list. We are extremely lucky and fortunate that we have our health. There are many people that do not have this luxury, and I know that at times we take this for granted. We are human and because of that it is difficult to comprehend having our mobility, sight, mental capacity, and our health taken away from us. Without our health, the other things in life that we cherish are extremely difficult to appreciate. Speaking from a professional standpoint, vision and eye health are of paramount importance in my daily life. Most people are extremely scared of losing their vision, as several polls have showed that losing your vision is second on the list behind cancer as the most feared health-related condition. Depending on the ocular condition, vision loss can be permanent. Diseases such as diabetes, macular degeneration, and glaucoma can cause vision changes that can alter your ability to accomplish daily activities such as driving, reading a book, and cooking. A loss of independence is emotionally devastating to anyone. Some of these conditions can be prevented or
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www.yourmonthlypaper.com be medically treated where the visual compromise is minimal. Therefore, we always recommend annual examinations and optimizing your personal health as a healthy body generally leads to healthy eyes. The other thing that I am extremely proud of and appreciate is my office staff that I work with everyday. Since the economy is still struggling, I am happy everyday when I am able to open the doors to the office. As most people can attest, these are difficult times for everyone, but thankfully the state of the economy seems to be slowly improving. It is a pleasure working in the community providing quality service and eye care. We also must thank all of our patients and family members that continue to support our service and office. We pride ourselves on doing everything in our power to ensure a positive and enjoyable time while at our office. During the next few months during the holiday season, it is a good idea to take stock of how things stand and what is really important. I know all too well to not sweat the small stuff, but at times it can feel like everything is the small stuff. In reality, life is really too short, and we all need to appreciate what we have and who we know. 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 Advertorial Alamo Optometry Facebook page.
Hearing Loss Association 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 are accepted. An 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.
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.
1975: “ All of the local sports groups were asked for input as well as support in providing capital for construction: Little League Baseball, tennis groups, AAU Swim Club, soccer, women’s softball, Babe Ruth Baseball, football.” The R-7 Committee also worked closely with East Bay Regional Parks to establish an integrated system of pedestrian and equestrian trails. While the plan for Osage remained sports enthusiast-centered, Oak Hill was designed with cross-country jogging, hiking, and equestrian paths. The original building at Oak Hill was replaced with a 6,400 square foot Community Center in 2007. Available to rent for weddings and other large functions, the facility has a ballroom seating 160 for dinner and a lovely view of the lake as well as Mount Diablo. Likewise overlooking the lake is the All Wars Memorial. The bronze sculpture, designed by Vietnam veteran Don Roch, perpetually seeks to achieve the summit where a “healing circle” invites visitors to reflect on the sacrifices required to defend our nation’s values. Design of the parks was a totally hands-on project for the R-7 Committee. Realizing that the space allocated for a children’s play area at Osage Station was limited and the structures in existing design books would leave little room for free play, the R-7 Committee convinced Columbia Cascade to create Western Town themed equipment straddling the concrete wall. Miniature buildings encourage imaginative play. Sandy Myers fondly remembers the water feature which is now inactive. Sand kept clogging the filter. Sandy witnessed one mother with no idea she was destroying the mechanics pouring buckets of sand into the pool. Countless children and adults have the R-7 Committee to thank for sports fields, peaceful paths, and spectacular views. Each summer evening concert at Oak Hill draws an average of 2,000 spectators. When the Town of Danville took over park maintenance following incorporation, the newly formed commission was bombarded with requests for memorials. Plaques beside oak trees at Oak Hill Park were so much in demand that the Commission feared the park would soon look like a cemetery. Fortunately the effect today is subtle and dignified. Memorial Rose Beds at Osage Station Park and park benches also received immediate public support as remembrances. Some trees and a few rose boxes are still available to satisfy ongoing interest in establishing a memorial. For information contact Danville Parks at 925-314-3400. Sandy Myers and Ed Best
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Alamo Today ~ November 2012 - Page 31
Stroke Support Group
The Many Faces of Gynecologic Cancers
The Stroke Support Group of Contra Costa County will hold its November meeting in the Concord Room at John Muir Medical Center - Concord Campus, (2540 East Avenue, Concord) from 7-9pm on Monday, November 12th. The speaker will be Lindsay Visocchi who will discuss the California Relay Telephone Services, include “Speech to Speech” services. After the program, attendees will break up into three coping groups: stroke survivors without aphasia, stroke survivors with aphasia, and caregivers and families of stroke survivors -- each group led by a trained professional. For more information, contact Ann Dzuna at 925-376-6218. Meetings are free and open to the public.
On Thursday, November 29th from 6:30-8:30pm, join medical experts as they explore the unique issues of ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. The Many Faces of Gynecologic Cancers will be held at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center located at 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette. The panel will offer insight into the latest information on early detection, family history and genetics, treatment options, and cancer specific nutrition. The talk is sponsored by Diablo Valley Oncology, John Muir Health, Cypress Women’s Cancer Treatment Center, Cancer Support Community, and the American Cancer Society. Register by calling 925-677-5041, x272.
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WILLS/TRUSTS/PROBATE/ESTATE PLANNING - Elizabeth Johnson, J.D.(Juris Doctorate), LL.M.(Master of Law in Taxation), is an attorney with over 20 years of experience. She provides legal services in the areas of Wills, Trusts, Estate Planning, Probate Administration, Advance Health Care Directives, Elder Care issues, and Guardianships. Her legal expertise and personal approach allow you to confidently plan for your future and the future of those dear to you. Please call 925-362-1010 or visit www.johnsonestateplanning.com.
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EXCELLENT, EXPERIENCED PET CARE SERVICE. Lock and leave, no worries. At your home. Daily visits, dog walking, grooming and vet appts kept. Start planning holiday dates early. References. Reasonable rates. Call Barbara Monroe at 925-998-9317.
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Page 32 - November 20 2012 ~ Alamo Today
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The Combs Team Professionals You Can Count On
Nancy
Joe
Call the Combs Team
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925- 9 8 9 - 6 0 8 6 www.TheCombsTeam.com Each year about this time I try to update the market on what’s happening in the rental market place in Alamo. This analysis looks at rental homes with at least 4 bedrooms and 2-3 baths. The data for all years listed runs from January 1-September 26, so it is an “apples to apples” comparison for all years. The data presented here are published on MLS and do not include every property rented during the time periods. A fair number of rentals are handled directly by the homeowner off MLS. Unfortunately, when we look at off MLS rental properties we can only see the advertised price, not the rent actually agreed to, so current rents as advertised off MLS, while they may appear to be higher than reported here, most likely overstate the actual rent collected by the landlord. The rental market in Alamo has been rather sleepy during the past six years, rising at an annual rate of about 3%. This year marks a significant change in trajectory. Rents have risen like a hockey stick in Alamo. Rents are up 22% compared to last year from an average of $3,924 per month to $4,783. That’s pretty remarkable when you consider that the size of the average home in the rental market has declined by about 5% understating the real rent increase. On a square foot basis rents have climbed 28% from last year. Between 2007 and 2011 rents collected during the interim years were tracking downward and only began to rebound a little bit last year. Most notable in the data presented here are the unit increases experienced and maintained from 2007-2010. These time periods reflect anywhere from 2-3 times the number of rental transactions than in the preceding time frames going back to 2000 which averaged about five transactions per year. I think 4 bed 2-3 bath rental homes sales Alamo Jan.1- Sept. 26 Year Units $ Sq. Foot Avg. Price Size Sq. Ft. we would expect that giv2007 13 $ 1.48 $ 4,253 2874 en the market 2008 11 $ 1.45 $ 4,190 2890 conditions for 2009 14 $ 1.34 $ 4,418 3297 h o m e s a l e s 2010 11 $ 1.28 $ 4,099 3202 d u r i n g t h e 2011 6 $ 1.39 $ 3,924 2823 past few years 2012 7 $ 1.78 $ 4,783 2687 that a number
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of homeowners, unAlamo Family Home Rental able to sell their homes, $1.90 opted to give renting a $1.80 try and in the process $1.70 became “unintentional $1.60 landlords” while pray$1.50 ing for a quick snap $1.40 back in price. $1.30 Also, very interesting is that the number $1.20 of rental transactions $1.10 $ Sq. Foot has dropped back into $1.00 the pre-2007 range with 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 only 6 -7 rental transactions reported on MLS during 2011 and 2012. This change is fascinating and suggests that fewer homeowners are going the rental route this year than during the past few years and that is reducing the inventory of rental homes available. Given the brisk pace of home sales this year, I believe this makes a fair amount of sense. At the same time our rental demand remains elevated because a number of people, who would ordinarily be home buyers, cannot obtain financing. Some because of credit damage inflicted during the downturn and others because of very tight lending standards. In today’s market you can rent a home in Alamo for a lower monthly outlay than you can buy in San Ramon or Walnut Creek. If for a family, buying a home is no longer an option, why not rent in a great community with superior schools? Whatever the reason, the numbers speak for themselves…significantly fewer rental transactions today…almost at a normal level. What this means is not completely clear. For the moment, property values are headed upward and so are rents. This is a good thing. Dollars Per Square Foot
Alamo Real Estate: Rental Rates Jump in 2012!
If you are thinking about selling your home and would like an honest opinion of its market value, please give me a call 925-989-6086, or send me an email joecombs@thecombsteam.com. Nancy and I will be happy to help.
Investors Welcome
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Amazing single story home on quiet cul-desac. This will be pending in no time! Call for details.
Amazing 3 bed, 2 bath condo in prime location. Great investment opportunity or starter home. Call for details.
7 acre lot, 11 acre lot, 1.1 acre lot. Call for details and pricing.
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Investors Welcome
Golf Course Single Story
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Dramatic, one-of-a-kind luxury home with amazing views! We get results!
Short sale. Beautiful remodel, single story. Investment opportunity. Call for details.
Data presented in this column is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Contra Costa and Alameda MLS service and other quoted sources. Joe and Nancy Combs, J. Rockcliff and the MLS service do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. DRE #0144125.
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Completely renovated single story on Golf Course. $1,399,000 J. Rockcliff Realtors 15 Railroad Ave., Danville CA. 94526