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March 2014 Tassajara One-Room Schoolhouse: 125 Years Young By Jody Morgan
Serving Alamo and Diablo
The Tassajara One-Room Schoolhouse (the Schoolhouse) at 1650 Finley Road in Danville welcomes students Monday-Friday from January to June much as it did 125 years ago. Unlike the pupils who entered the building in 1889 ranging from first to eighth grade, children who come today are all third graders. Each class arrives in costume to experience old-fashioned education for a single day. On January 12, 1889, when the first Tassajara Grammar School was deemed too small, voters unanimously approved issuing bonds in the amount of $1,700 to build and furnish the present structure. The contract for construction went to J.L. Weilbye who completed the project in time for 41 students to study in the Schoolhouse that August. Roger Podva, a first grader in 1890, recalled students sitting two to a desk with
Recent rains have greened up the foothills of Mt. Diablo which provides a perfect opportunity for the Monta Vista High School Mountain Bike Club to get out and train.
Cake4Kids By Fran Miller
Docent Betty Casey explains 1888 school rules.
as many as 75 pupils attending at one time. During peak seasons, the children of migrant farm workers joined those regularly enrolled. Children walked, rode horseback, or arrived in horse-drawn buggies. Enrollment dwindled to 16 before the Schoolhouse closed in 1946. Parents believed their children would receive a better educational experience by transferring to the larger Danville system. Gordon Rasmussen, a sixth grader in 1946, was quoted in a 1972 Contra Costa Times article: “It was like hitting you with both barrels. In 1946 I had one other kid in my class, but then all of a sudden the next year there were 40.” Nancy Rasmussen Ramsey was the only student in her grade level. Her family lived at least three miles away, but no matter what the weather, the four Rasmussen children rode their bicycles to school. Nancy recalls that she always dreamed of arriving first, but as the youngest with the smallest cycle, she always came last. Games at recess had to accommodate the abilities of all the different age levels. The children made forts in the grass when it grew tall. Nancy can still smell the strong soap they used to wash their hands. The primitive privies, one for boys and one for girls, were not a hardship. Most of the children had outdoor plumbing at home. “Tassajara” sounds Spanish, but the word comes from a Native Californian word meaning “where the meat was hung to dry.” Although they initially tried farming, the Danish and Portuguese families who settled the area soon turned to cattle ranching. The Rasmussen property also had walnut trees. During the
See Schoolhouse continued on page 28
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Just as Valentine’s Day and chocolates go together, and July 4 th goes with fireworks, so do birthdays and cake. Some may argue that a birthday isn’t properly celebrated unless a cake makes an appearance. But what if a birthday takes place while one is seeking refuge in a crisis center, or is in the care of harried foster parents, or is at a shelter or group home where baking is the last thing on anyone’s mind? Enter Cake4Kids, a unique Bay Area organization whose volunteers aim to fill the birthday cake void for disadvantaged and at-risk children and youth. Cake4Kids volunteers bake and decorate cakes in their home kitchens for delivery to at-risk youth, ages one to 21. Serving A Cakes4Kids volunteer baker adds the a wide variety of Bay Area agencies, finishing touches to a birthday cake that will be delivered to a child in need. the Cake4Kids’ mission is to help one child at a time feel good about his or her self at least one day each year. “We are serving children who, due to extreme Volume XIV - Number 3 3000F Danville Blvd. #117, circumstances, are often forgotten on Alamo, CA 94507 their birthdays,” says Cake4Kids board Telephone (925) 405-NEWS, 405-6397 member and acting executive director Fax (925) 406-0547 Julie Eades. “We know that that these Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher children are receiving basic essentials Editor@yourmonthlypaper.com and support from the wonderful agenSharon Burke ~ Writer cies we serve, and we strive to provide sburke@yourmonthlypaper.com opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do a little something more. Making and The not necessarily reflect that of Alamo Today. Alamo Today delivering a cake is such a simple act is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising
See Cakes continued on page 30
herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.
Page 2 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Boulevard View
By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
One website I enjoy receiving daily updates from is www.mariasfarmcountrykitchen.com. Author Maria Rodale writes about food and recipes, gardening, organic issues, and “random thoughts.” A while back Maria wrote a piece titled, “When I was a Kid…” She reflected on things from her youth - which just happens to be the same timeframe as I grew up in. As Maria reflected on “our” childhood, she noted, “There were only three channels on the TV, and the TV turned off at midnight! Or it went to static. There was only AM radio stations and they had lots of static. There was no VCR, DVR, or TiVo. You either saw a show or you didn’t. Half of the shows were in black and white.” In our home we waited anxiously each week for Little House on the Prairie or Magnum P.I., and the whole family watched the shows together. We wrote reports, aka term papers, in school, typed on a typewriter. We had to take a six month typing class just to figure out how the typewriter keyboard functioned, and we did this by repeatedly typing, “The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog,” which gave our fingers the practice to find every letter of the alphabet. We used Wite-out for the ever-common typoos as there was no “Delete” key. The “facts” for our reports came mostly from one source, the red, faux-leather bound “World Book Encyclopedia” set which was previously owned by my grandparents. It provided dated information about world events, which at the time we thought was fairly current - not news that was updated by the nanosecond from billions of sources. Cameras required film that you had to wind through each shot and rewind back into the canister when you got to the end of the roll. And, as Maria noted, “You had to WAIT to see your pictures,” days, weeks, maybe months. Each single shot cost MONEY in film and processing, even if the picture was a dud. If you were lucky enough to have a Polaroid camera then you had to wait a whole MINUTE to see your images. However, if you had a Polaroid you couldn’t make copies or share the image with all of your friends. The photos were all one square size, and the image always had a dingy tinge. My guess is that most children had just a few hundred images of themselves that covered their WHOLE childhood.
Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Save the date! Alamo Rotary will again hold its annual egg hunt on April 19 at 10AM at Livorna Park in Alamo. This annual event is free and is for children up to 12 years of age. It features an egg hunt and a visit from the Easter Bunny with opportunity for picture taking. The hunt is divided into three age categories (4 and under, 4-7, and 7-12) so that all can get their share of the 3,000 eggs hidden around the park. Come and enjoy this traditional event. th
Wheelchair Foundation 12th Annual Charity Ball
The 12th annual Wheelchair Foundation Charity Ball will be held on March 15 from 6pm-11:30pm at the Blackhawk Automotive Museum. Dinner catered by Scott’s Seafood and winery hosted wines follow the hors d’oeuvres service. Dancing, entertainment, and live and silent auctions may all be enjoyed for a general admission fee of $150 ($75 tax-deductible). Black tie is optional. To reserve a place or find additional contribution categories and information, visit www.wineforwheels.org and click on “events.” The mission of the Wheelchair Foundation is to provide a wheelchair to every child, teenager, and adult in the world who needs a wheelchair but cannot afford one. In many countries the cost of a wheelchair represents a laborer’s entire annual income. With every $150 raised, another individual waiting for mobility will receive a wheelchair.
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I think about our current use of and envelopment by technology. We didn’t spend hours each day sitting in front of screens or randomly surfing and sharing every moment of our daily lives. There was no Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, or even email. We didn’t “pin” things on our wall or make videos of every activity. While it may seem that today everyone around us has some type of smartphone, one of the first players in the smartphone industry, the iPhone, has only been in existence for less than seven years! In college there was one phone in the hallway for our whole floor of 20 or so girls to use. The phone was attached to the wall and had a cord to a handset. Calls were planned in advance so we could hopefully catch the other party when they were around as there were no answering machines. Growing up, if we wanted to call our grandparents who lived far away, the call had to be after 6pm for “better rates,” and whenever a “long distance” call came to the house, everything stopped as a long distance call was somehow even more important. Maria recalled that in school, “Girls went to ‘Home Ec’ and learned how to sew buttons on clothes and make cinnamon rolls. Boys went to ‘Shop’ and learned how to use a power saw.” When I read that I remembered the flower printed skirt I sewed in our junior high class and think of the lamp on our shelf that my husband made via laminating different wood types together and forming the lamp shape on a lathe. Unfortunately, these hands-on skills have gone by the wayside, which I think is a shame. Packages rarely arrived on our door step, and if they did they weren’t from an order placed on Amazon.com less than 24 hours before. Many stores were closed on Sundays, and again you would have to WAIT for the following day to purchase what you needed or wanted. Sometimes the rapid speed of today’s life is a little too much. There are too many bells, whistles, interruptions, and alerts. Most of the time “Breaking News” seems to be of little importance, not very relevant to me, and certainly not worth the interruption. I feel all the news alerts give me the feeling of the “boy who cried wolf” with the false alarms making me numb to the times when there is news of something of great importance. The simplicity of life that the blog “Maria’s Farm Country Kitchen” conjures up makes me sometimes want to go back to “When I was a Kid.”
Come see what’s new in our Pantry at Alamo Hardware A tasty selection of new favorites for cooking, entertaining, and gift giving.
Roasted Chipotle & Garlic Baked Dip Mix Beautifully packaged, these dip mixes are as pretty as they are tasty. Simply add a cup of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a cup of Mayo. It’s that simple!
th
San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club
The San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club is holding its monthly luncheon on Thursday, March 20 at Faz restaurant in Danville. This luncheon is open to current and prospective members in the San Ramon Valley area. For further information or a reservation, please contact Dee Bradshaw at (925) 837-9600 or visit www.srvnc.com.
Alamo-Danville Newcomers Club
Please join members of the Alamo-Danville Newcomers Club for a free Welcome Coffee on Tuesday, March 25, 10AM to noon to meet members and learn about the Club. For further details, call (925) 281-1307.
Ancho Chili Rub A combination of bold, spicy, smoky and sweet flavors, this rub will put your chicken center stage.
Tangerine & Red Pepper Jelly Fresh and fragrant Tangerines flirt with a hint of Red Chili in this addictive savory jelly. Irresistible when served as a condiment to chicken and pork … we like it over Brie!
Check Our Recipe Of The Month Video On Our Website: www.AlamoHardware.com/Kitchen
Check out our New Gift Registry! The Kitchen at Alamo Hardware & Garden Center 3211 Danville Blvd. Alamo, CA 94507 · Call (925)837-2420 or Text (925)272-9262 USA Pan * Le Creuset *Emile Henry *Evaco Cast * Mauviel * Bodum *Bo’s Best * Cuisipro * Chantal * Global Amici * Lodge * Microplane * Nespresso * Pillivuyt * Rösle * Swiss Diamond * Wüsthof * and many more
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 3
Alamo ~ Attractive Whitegate 6 Bdrms, 3 Baths, 2,743 sq ft w/an Open Floor Plan, Hrdwd Flrs, an Abundance of Windows & Natural Light. Family rm w/raised ceiling & fireplace, formal living & dining rm, Lg .35 acre landscaped corner lot, 3 car garage, court location. Asking $1,199,000
Alamo ~ Single story home w/pool in desirable Round Hill. Set on a private lane, home has 4 bdrms, 2 baths, formal dining rm, living rm w/fire place, eat in kitchen, family room w/ fireplace. Private 1 acre lot w/lush landscaping, pool, & built-in BBQ perfect for entertaining! $1,249,000
Alamo ~ Spectacular Gated Westside Location features 3 bdrms, 2 baths & Lg Loft area. Nestled in a Lush, Gated Setting on a Large .47 Acre Lot. Gourmet Kitchen, Brazilian Hardwoods, Formal Dining Area and Large Open Living Space. 1 Block to Iron Horse Trail! $1,149,000
Russ Darby • 925.943.3333 • Tim Palumbo 925.943.3332
Alamo ~ Vintage & historical 1937 Oak Hill Ranch in Alamo Oaks. Magical setting, 2.0 acres, 5 bdrms, office, 4.5 baths, basement, detached pool house of 1100 sq ft, sparkling 20x40 pool, quiet cul-de-sac w/Mt Diablo/Valley views. Ancient OAKS & CYPRESS. High ceilings, fabulous dbl kitchen, 3 fireplaces, BANQUET DINING RM. Wonderful Home, you will love to LIVE HERE. $2,375,000 Jay Weymouth ~ 925.915.1100 JayWeymouth@yahoo.com
Walnut Creek ~ Great location describes this level entry Beacon Ridge townhouse. 3 bedrooms 2.5 baths with master on the first floor. Updated kitchen and Master bath. Hardwood floors, 2 car attached garage....No rear neighbors. It is a “10”! Call for your private tour. $774,000 Gretchen Bryce ~ 925.683.2477 gretchenbryce@msn.com
Page 4 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Volunteers Needed for Amgen Tour
Mount Diablo State Park has been selected to host the Stage 3 finish of the 2014 Amgen Tour of California bike race. The finish will take place on Tuesday, May 13th at the Summit at Mount Diablo. This event will attract many thousands of spectators and live worldwide TV coverage. It is one of the premier road bike races in the world and will feature the best international riders and teams competing today. Mount Diablo State Park is looking to recruit several hundred volunteers to help as course marshals, in hospitality, in media support, and in a host of other volunteer roles. To register as a prospective volunteer, please visit www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/Tour/volunteer.html. Information about the The Amgen Tour of California Stage finish in Mount Diablo Stage Park is found at http://www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/Route/ cities/mt-diablo-st-park.html. Additional information is also available on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Friends-of-Mount-DiabloState-Park-Stage-3-Best-Summit-Finish-Ever/774471715914038.
Journey of Hope: 4,000 Bike Ride Across America
Steve Lindow, a 2012 graduate from Monta Vista High School, is set to embark on a two month long bike ride this summer which will have him traveling 4,000 miles across the United States. The Journey of Hope ride, organized by Push America, is being done as a fundraiser in support of people living with disabilities in the United States. Lindow has spent a lot of time each week working with disabled children in the Boulder community as a part of his University of Colorado fraternity, and in the past he has volunteered at a Muscular Dystrophy Association summer camp, working with severely disabled children, which has led to his interest in his current fundraising endeavor. To find out more about Lindow’s ride or to offer support, visit http://ipush.convio.net/ site/TR/Events/General?px=1117333&pg=personal&fr_id=1310.
Upcoming Meetings and Events
AIA - Alamo Improvement Association - Please visit www.alamoca.org for upcoming meetings - 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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Luck of the Irish at Taste and Toast Event
Join the Town of Danville for the craic (fun) during Taste and Toast of Ireland on Thursday, March 13 from 7pm to 8:30pm at the Danville Senior Center, located at 115 East Prospect Avenue. Clap your hands to the beat as the Dillon Magh Adhair Academy Dancers twirl and skip to Irish music. A talented local singer, Avery Chapman, will delight you with her repertoire of Irish tunes. The festivities also include samples of Irish brew and tasty tidbits. The cost is $5 residents, $6 non-residents, and $8 at the door. For more information or to register, please call the Danville Senior Center at (925) 314-3490. This is the second program in the Taste and Toast of… series for adults, ages 21 and older. The series celebrates countries from around the world in a festive and informative style. The third event in this series, Taste and Toast of Chile, will be held on May 15.
Host Families Sought for Visiting French Students
For the ninth year, students from a large high school in the south of France are coming to Danville. The students will arrive on April 27th and depart May 9th . The teens stay with local families and have a full itinerary of activities during the days and only require your attention in the evenings and one weekend. The visit is an ideal opportunity to experience another culture and hopefully consider visiting France in return. Anyone interested in hosting a student (or students!) is welcome to participate. For more information or to find out about past year’s programs, please contact Martine Causse (teacher in charge of the group), at caussefly@wanadoo.fr or dachary.martine@orange.fr. For information from a local host family contact Danville parent Kevin Dimler at kevindimler@gmail.com or 925-718-5052.
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If you find her and your name is drawn!
Alamo Zoe is Missing
Alamo Zoe has become lost in this paper... Search through Alamo Today and see if you can find her! She is very small, so you will have to look hard if you want to find her.
To be eligible send a letter telling us where you found her, along with your name and address, to: Lost Dog! ~ Alamo Today 3000F Danville Blvd #117 • Alamo, CA 94507
Brenda Markson is our winner
Since
1993
lafayette 3360 Mt. Diablo Blvd.
925.283.3133
san ramon
2151 San Ramon Valley Blvd.
925.837.3000
theserviceoutlet.com 1211138-TSO-ALToday-5x6.25.indd 1
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 5
Serving Alamo’s real estate needs for 100 years! Alamo Home Sales – February 2014
Bed/Bath
List Price Sale Price
196 Bolla Avenue 4/3 $1,579,000 $1,495,000 335 David Drive 3/2 $1,224,000 $1,353,500 261 Livorna Heights Road 5/3 $1,177,000 $1,200,000 2461 Lunada Lane 3/2½ $995,000 $975,000 319 South Avenue 5/4½ $1,999,000 $2,000,000 3080 Stonegate Drive 4/3 $1,795,000 $1,762,500 70 Vernal Court 5/5 $1,150,000 $1,140,000 All single family homes sold in Alamo 01/26/14 thru 02/25/14
Top 1% Producers! Put the power of a top producing real estate team and the East Bay’s #1 real estate firm to work for you!
Dea 925.640.1727
Chris 925.858.5700
deacampbell@comcast.net | BRE #01734124
chrisbcampbell@comcast.net | BRE #01345618
San Ramon Valley Republican Women
Blackhawk Republican Women
California Assemblyman Tim Donnelly is running for Governor of California. Come and hear what his ideas are on how to return our beautiful state of California back to “We the People!” in his talk titled, “Making Jerry Brown an Ex-Governor.” As one of 14 children, Tim learned at an early age the importance of responsibility, the value of hard work, and the ability to get along without compromising his values. He is a respected leader and has a business background. He has earned the reputation of being a conservative in the California Legislature by promoting free enterprise, defending liberty, restricting government regulations, and upholding the Constitution. Come with your questions for Assemblyman Donnelly! The dinner and talk will be held at the Crow Canyon Country Club, located at 711 Silver Lake Drive in Danville, on Tuesday, March 25th. Social time begins at 6:15pm, and dinner will be served at 7pm. The cost is $35. For reservations, call Mary at 925-837-5465 or e-mail srvrwf.lunch@ gmail.com. Reservations are due by Wednesday, March 19th. For more information, visit www.srvrwf.org.
Delta Nu Psi
Presents Assemblyman Tim Donnelly
Save the Date
Save the date for our upcoming luncheon on Tuesday, April 22 at noon. Jon Coupal, president of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Association, will be the guest speaker.
Free Tax Preparation
Free tax preparation for the 2014 tax season is available from AARP’s Tax-Aide and United Way’s Earn It, Keep It, Save It (EKS) programs. All tax preparers are trained and certified by the IRS. For information or to make an appointment for the Tax-Aide sites at the San Ramon Senior Center, please call (925) 973-3250, or (925) 480-7202 for the St. Isidore site in Danville site. For general information call (925) 726-3199. For information on EKS sites, call 2-1-1 or visit www.earnitkeepitsaveit.org.
Blackhawk Republican Women present John Yoo; Professor of Law, U.C. Berkeley, Visiting Scholar, American Enterprise Institute, recipient, Paul M. Bator Award for Excellence in Legal Scholarship and Teaching from the Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy, speaking on “The Obama Presidency's Threat to Liberty” on Wednesday, March 12th at the Blackhawk Country Club. Social hour and hors d’oeuvres with nohost bar begins at 5:30pm and the speaker will present at 6PM. The cost is $25. John was the subject of media controversy and protests on campus over his service as Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Office of Legal Counsel of the U.S. Dept. of Justice while working on national security and terrorism after the September 11th attacks. He also served as general counsel of the Senate Judiciary Committee and law clerk to Justice Clarence Thomas. John is the author of over 75 published scholarly articles and half a dozen books on foreign affairs, national security, and constitutional law. He will tell us about his new book being published in April, Point of Attack: Preventive War, International Law, and Global Welfare! Please make reservations or cancellations by noon on Monday, March 10th by contacting Marianne Lyons via mail to 856 Turrini Dr., Danville, 94526, email rlyons1009@sbcglobal.net, or call 925-820-6452. Please come by CVS in Alamo and Lunardi’s in Danville, and grab our shopping list and shop for our Afghanistan servicemen. With your help we just mailed 1,155 boxes containing 28,249 pounds of “gourmet junk food” to the Troops. Your help is needed at CVS in Alamo on March 7th and March 14th at Lunardi’s in Danville from 12:30pm-2pm each day. Monetary donations to cover shipping are also appreciated as the cost of mailing recently went up a whopping 34%. For more information visit deltanupsi.org.
Want to Become a Better Speaker?
Toastmasters allows its members to practice their speaking and presentation skills in a supportive environment. Our local club, Danville AM Toastmasters, meets every Tuesday from 7 to 8:30AM at Father Nature's Restaurant in downtown Danville (172 E Prospect Ave). Please drop by and visit us! For more information, contact Hans Thoma at danvilletoastmasters@outlook.com.
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Page 6 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Happy St. Patrick’s Day FREE Cleaning for New Patients! (must be accompanied by exam and x-rays) Expires April 01, 2014
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 7
Your Home SOLD at Least 100% Market Value GUARANTEED or I’ll Pay You the Difference* * Seller and Brad Gothberg must agree on price and closing date
TO DISCUSS THE SALE OF YOUR HOME, CALL BRAD GOTHBERG AT 925-998-5151 TODAY! Brad Gothberg J. Rockcliff CAL BRE# 00964026
Get a FREE Special Report that details this Exclusive Offer at www.SRVGuaranteePayback.com and Start Packing!
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T� D������ T�� S��� O� Y��� H��� C��� B��� G������� A� 925-998-5151 T����! Kiwanis Club Calls for 2014 Grant Applications Offering More than $37,500 to Community Non-Profits
The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley through its affiliate, the San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation, has issued a call for community nonprofit organizations throughout the area to apply for more than $37,500 in grants to be awarded during 2014. Ranging from $500 to $3,000, the Kiwanis grants are designed to support programs and projects that help both specific organizations and the broader community. According to grants chairman, John Lineweaver, the bulk of the grants will be awarded in May. Additional monies will be held in reserve to provide emergency grants, fund Kiwanis community service projects, and to support of four local Kiwanis High School Key Clubs. The total of this direct youth support will exceed $18,000, making the total dollar amount of community service grants and funding by Kiwanis more than $55,000 for 2014. Lineweaver noted that Kiwanis generally recognizes grant applications from projects that serve residents of the San Ramon Valley, although non-profit organizations need not be located in the Valley itself. Specific eligibility criteria are listed on the Kiwanis website at www.kiwanis-srv.org. Because Kiwanis makes a single grant to the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation for distribution to district schools, grants are NOT available for individual schools. Grant consideration is given to programs that focus on children, the infirm or the elderly and provide solace, comfort or consolation. Last year, over 40 separate non-profit organizations received grants. The SRV Kiwanis Foundation has awarded more than $600,000 in grants in the Valley since the mid-1990’s! Funds for the annual grants program are raised by the San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation through several fundraising projects, including organizing and conducting the annual Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. More than 600,000 Kiwanis family members in 96 countries make their mark by responding to the needs of their communities and pooling their resources to address worldwide issues. Through these efforts, Kiwanis International truly is “Serving the Children of the World.” Applications and further information, including eligibility criteria, can be obtained from the Kiwanis website at www.kiwanis-srv.org or by contacting John
Lineweaver at (925)837-3665. The deadline for grant applications is Monday, March 10, and winners will be announced at a Grants Award Presentation on Thursday, May 22. Anyone interested in learning more about the Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley is invited to visit www.kiwanis-srv.org. The club holds weekly luncheon meetings at Noon on Thursdays at Round Hill Country Club in Alamo. Please join the club for lunch, and find out more about the organization.
Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek AAUW Scholarship Program
The Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of AAUW (American Association of University Women) seeks candidates for its 2014 Local Scholarship Program. Are you the next generation of entrepreneurs, scientists, teachers, librarians, researchers, scholars, writers, artists, doctors, and more? We want to help women who will give back to their community and to the world. Applicants must be women who presently reside or did reside in Walnut Creek while in public or private high school or women who presently reside or did reside in the San Ramon Valley School District area while in public or private high school. They must be at least entering their junior year in college. Scholarships are based on merit and start at $1,000. The deadline for applications is April 1. Awards will be announced by mid-May. Learn more about the scholarship at http://daw-ca.aauw.net/2014-scholarship/, and download the scholarship application packet there. E-mail Lynn at Lgood67334@comcast.net if you have questions.
Danville Community Band
The Danville Community Band will present “A Gallery of Sound” on Sunday, April 6th at 2pm at the Blackhawk Automotive Museum located at 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville. Join the band as they trek through and examine “A Gallery of Sound” with selections from film scores to marches. Come see the fabulous auto galleries, tour the current exhibits, and enjoy a concert all in the same building. The concert is FREE with admission into the Museum (free for museum members). For more information, visit www.danvilleband.org. For Museum information, call 925-736-2277 or visit www.blackhawkmuseum.org. The Danville Community Band is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.
Page 8 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Rancho Romero Elementary School By Skye Larsh-Faraghan, Principal Integrating Technology into the School Environment
We are in the midst of a technology revolution, and educators have a mandate to keep current with the constant evolution of resources, tools, and materials. We can’t ignore the fact that students in elementary schools are natives in the technology age. Their tools of choice are various electronic devices used to communicate and seek information. What’s more, as educators we need to access the latest curriculum, teaching trends, and Common Core practices. The dual imperative is to integrate technology and make it a fundamental part of our teaching and learning. In 2011 our School Site Council read the book, 21st Century Skills: Learning for Life in Our Times. Several facts surfaced through discussion and observation, creating an awareness and interest in further examination of practices. Resulting from data cited in the book and other research, we took notice of the access and prevalent use of technology by our own students. Toddlers in strollers scrolling through smart phones, second graders showing each other the latest iPad application, and fifth graders blogging and creating shared Google presentations were occurring outside of school. Trends suggested that students enjoyed these devices, and they were using them to access information. The teaching staff and school Site Council and Technology Team began planning ways to offer students challenging and meaningful learning by shifting from digital tools used only for extension and enrichment activities to infusing higher levels of thinking and problem-solving within the grade-level content. A new job description was created for our Instructional Technology Teacher (ITT). The position focused on the support and growth of digital tools and resources in K-5 curriculum and instruction linked to Common Core State Standards. Additionally, we focused on support of teachers in developing units of study/lesson design and use of technology. The ITT and principal collaborated on, and were awarded, two grants in 2012 by the San Ramon Valley Education Fund under the project heading, “On the Move With iPads.” The intent was to create access for students in kindergarten through fifth grade. In 2013 Chromebooks were made available for our 5th grade students. Now, walking into classrooms one may find students using digital storytelling, accessing productivity tools to work in the Cloud using Google Apps, and communicating and collaborating with tools that include Gmail, calendars, and Google Docs. One may also observe a teacher using a document camera to explain a math concept, a PE Specialist directing students to demonstrate skills and capture it on video, a science teacher showing a BrainPOP clip to “pin” a lesson on moon phases, and an art specialist showing her students a slideshow of Matisse’s art on an iPad. The ITT makes it clear that, “To be meaningful, technology must provide information otherwise unavailable, allow students to build learning communities, and construct their own knowledge.” Our ITT has organized the technology curriculum at Rancho into six areas: writing and word processing, working with data, presentations, creative arts, computer science, and information skills. Rancho has made huge strides in meeting the needs of all students, from students with disabilities to students with advanced skills. The creation of a digital environment has contributed directly to student engagement by providing context, relevance, and self-direction. Students are naturally curious and social, so when learning is structured to allow for problem solving, teamwork, and decision-making, they are ready to go. Technology and the world around us are changing faster than humans have ever experienced. It is our job to meet the needs of every student, every day. We are proud of our practices that have taken hold at Rancho Romero and plan to ensure that students are well prepared for the next level of learning, the next grade, and for their future in college majors and careers that may not exist today.
Danville Girls Chorus Spring Concert
The Danville Girls Chorus (DGC) will perform their Spring Concert, “Here Comes the Sun,” on Saturday, March 29th at 11am. The performance will take place at East Bay Four Square Church, located at 2615 Camino Tassajara Road in Danville. Tickets are $15 for adults and $5 for children, and they can be purchased at the door. The Danville Girls Chorus is made up of 135 girls from 3rd to 8th grades from schools across the Tri-Valley area. The primary goal of DGC is music education. Girls are taught the basics of vocal production and learn the fundamentals of musicianship and note reading. Please visit www.danvillegirlschorus.org for more information on this event and other upcoming performances.
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Alamo Elementary School By Stan Hitomi, Principal National Reading Month
At Alamo School we often think of February as our unofficial Month of Reading, but March is officially the National Reading Month. In February we hosted our second Family Reading Night of the year. Students brought their favorite stuffed animal or pillow and enjoyed our special guest readers. Our students were treated to readings by Mr. Telles (5th grade) and Mrs. Andrews (3rd grade), as well as parents Karrie Heneman and Carol Even. A BIG THANK YOU to all of our readers and to Lana Vitale (PTA) who is coordinating the Family Reading Nights this year. February also included the 5th Annual San Ramon Valley Education Foundation’s Read-A-Thon, with all of the proceeds from our Alamo Read-A-Thon going directly to the Alamo School Library. Our focus on reading doesn’t end with February. We continue this month with our own version of “March Madness” in reading. It all starts with “Read Across America” on March 3rd with volunteers from the community coming into our classrooms to read to students in celebration of Dr. Seuss’s birthday. From March 24 – 28 we will be hosting our Annual Spring Book Fair. March 25th will be our final Family Reading Night of the year. Don’t miss it! Of course, any discussion about reading would not be complete without mentioning Marcie Wehrley. Marcie is the Library Media Coordinator (Librarian) at Alamo School. She came to Alamo School in 1996, after 10 years at work in other libraries in the district. For the past 18 years Marcie has been a fixture in our library. With a tenure that has spanned five principals, Marcie is an iconic figure on our campus and a much loved staff member by the children. Marcie symbolizes books and reading at Alamo School. All of our students (K-5) visit the library each week to check out books and listen to a story. Volunteering in the library is also a popular volunteer position by our parents! In addition to her work in the library, Marcie also coordinates the SRV Read-A-Thon and supports Family Reading Night. Going above-and-beyond, Marcie can also be seen at Family Game Night, co-facilitates Student Council, and can even be seen on carpool duty. I want to thank Marcie and all of our teachers and parents for their work in encouraging our students to read. The joy of reading is one of the greatest gifts we can give to our children.
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 9
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Stone Valley Middle School
By Shaun K. McElroy, Principal Stone Valley Opens Doors to the Public
On Tuesday, February 4th we hosted our third annual Open House during the school day. In the past our daytime Open House was limited to just the morning schedule, but this year we opened the campus all day and invited the 5th grade parents from our feeder schools to attend. All parents were provided with a school map, a copy of the master schedule, and free reign over which classes they visited. In most classrooms parents were able to talk directly to the teacher about the classroom activity and participate along with the students. We totaled 80 visitors including School Board President Rachel Hurd. Parents were treated to book talks, two different versions of a Socratic seminar, competitive academic games, interesting math lessons, a little French and Spanish, culinary arts, rocket building, music, and much more. Our intention in opening the classrooms to parents is twofold: keeping parents involved at the middle school level and providing parents with a glimpse into the middle school and Common Core classroom.
New Resident Deputy
Welcome Jesus Topete, Alamo’s new Resident Deputy. The Alamo community and schools; Rancho Romero, Alamo Elementary, and Stone Valley Middle School; are served by the Resident Deputy Sheriff. As of January 28th Deputy Jesus Topete joined the Alamo Sheriff’s office as our Resident Deputy. Deputy Topete is a 13-year veteran of the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department, and he holds a Bachelor’s of Science degree in criminal justice from Sacramento State University. When not on duty Deputy Topete likes to run and spend time with his wife and daughter. Deputy Topete’s previous assignment was in north Richmond. Deputy Topete’s role as the Resident Deputy for Alamo is largely determined by Alamo Police Services Advisory Committee (APSAC). The APSAC committee surveyed Alamo residents to determine areas of need and determined that school safety, some traffic mitigation, and supporting local
businesses and residents were the top priorities. Deputy Topete’s regular presence on our campus provides students with the opportunity to interact with law enforcement on an informal basis and breakdown stereotypes so that students see that police interactions aren’t always negative. Deputy Topete will also be advising us on our emergency response drills and procedures, including all aspects of student safety and communication.
Counseling Changes at Stone Valley
Patty O’Malley started the 2013-14 school year as a student support counselor, splitting her time between Stone Valley and Los Cerros Middle School. Patty has now moved into the full time guidance counseling position. Assuming Patty’s role as student support counselor is Ms. Chelsea Rivas. We will share Chelsea with Los Cerros. Chelsea comes to us from San Ramon Valley High School. Chelsea holds credentials and masters degrees in marriage and family therapy. To contact Patty, email pomalley@srvusd.net, and to contact Chelsea, email crivas1@srvusd.net.
Measure D Update
Measure D is a facilities bond that was passed by voters in the November 2012 election. Stone Valley Middle School modernization project is a high priority construction project. We are anticipating construction to begin July 2015, depending on design and the State approval time. The architectural services contract will be brought to the Board for approval in the near future. Design and drawings would need to start no later than this May 2014. An architect has been selected, Facilities staff and the *Facilities Oversight and Advisory Committee’s Design Sub-Committee will begin its work in March to study options, costs, schedules, etc. As the project options and rough design elements begin to come into focus, the site/staff/community team will become involved and help bring the design standards and specifications to completion…then the architects can really begin their work so we can get the drawings to the State for approval. *The role of the FOAC can be found on the SRVUSD home page at http:// www.srvusd.net/fac. Local members of the FOAC are Alamo residents Steve Mick, Chair and Margie Hart, Vice Chair. Assistant Superintendent, Facilities Gary Black is in charge of all projects under Measure D - gblack@srvusd.net.
Page 10 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
San Ramon Valley High School By Ruth Steele, Principal
Spring in high schools has come to be known as a testing season. From the end of March through mid-May, there are a variety of tests administered to students in different grades. These include all the tests listed below along with the AP tests that students take if they are enrolled in an AP course. While these tests are necessary, they disrupt regular instruction and can lead to a frustrating loss of class time for both students and teachers. CAHSEE - California High School Exit Exam, STAR - Standardized Testing and Reporting, CAPA - California Alternate Performance Assessment (used instead of STAR), EAP - Early Assessment Program, ACT - American College Testing, SAT - Scholastic Assessment Test (Scholastic Aptitude Test), SBAC - Smarter Balance Assessment Consortium, and CAASPP - California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress. The first three; CAHSEE, STAR, and CAPA; have been used to assess student performance in high school. The Exit Exam has to be passed in order for students to graduate, and they can take it in 10th, 11th, and 12th grades, multiple times, until it is passed. The EAP, ACT, and SAT are all college readiness tests. With the implementation of Common Core, a new assessment system is being developed by SBAC, a multi-state consortium that has been in place since 2010. The new tests are called CAASPP, and they will replace STAR testing, starting next year. This year, the tests are being piloted in the spring while STAR testing is phased out. These field tests are necessary to make sure that schools can successfully address the logistical challenges of these new tests. In the past, all testing was done on paper, but moving forward, these will be adaptive, computer based tests completed through a web portal. As these new tests are rolled out, the hope is that they will be quicker to administer and less disruptive for students and teachers. Another improvement would be having students take the tests at the end of the school year (June) instead of in March and April. As California navigates this transition along with many other states, the good news is that the Common Core Standards and the assessments being used will be a much more valid and comprehensive measure of student learning than the previous STAR system. Even though there will be some challenges along the way, ultimately, both staff and students will benefit enormously from this shift.
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Monte Vista High School By Janet Terranova, Principal
February was a very busy month at the Home of the Mustangs. Last month I mentioned two week long events: No Name Calling Week and Wheelchair Awareness Week. These two events, organized by clubs on campus, did a wonderful job of helping our students gain empathy for others. In just one thirty-minute Advisory, classes produced amazing posters reminding students that “words matter.� Our Wheelchair Awareness Week is finding our students very close to their goal of providing over 300 wheelchairs to folks around the world that have never had the opportunity to experience mobility. The month of March will find students signing up for classes for the 2014-2015 school year. This is an exciting time for students as they look at the numerous class offerings that both interest and challenge them. Our rich schedule of classes gives students the opportunity to choose from an array of diverse options. As students begin to plan out their next school year and beyond, please be sure to help your student achieve balance. Students should choose courses that will challenge them but not overwhelm them. Some students can handle one AP course, others three or four, and some will be most successful with a traditional schedule. Help your student look at their schedule and take into account outside commitments that are so important for a successful high school experience.
Important Dates for the Month of March
March 4 Incoming 10th, 11th, 12th grade and AP Night March 11 and 12 Incoming 9th grade Parent and Student Night, including information on Student Life and Sports March 18 and 19 California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) and the Mock CAHSEE for grades 9 and 10 with an adjusted schedule If you want to know more about Monte Vista and our activities, please visit www.mvhs.schoolloop.com.
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 11
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Page 12 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Spread the Word…One Pill can Kill By County Supervisor Candace Andersen
Several years ago a close friend confided in me that she was addicted to prescription pain medication. With great remorse she confessed that she had stolen pain pills from my medicine cabinet, replacing the prescription drugs with similar looking aspirin tablets. Fortunately, today she is doing well and is no longer abusing prescription medication. This scenario is not so unusual in our community. I had filled the prescription for my husband following oral surgery. He didn't end up needing it after the first day, but we kept the pills in the medicine cabinet “just in case” we might need them for an emergency in the future. Instead, we should have immediately and properly disposed of them. Over the past ten years we have seen a significant increase in the abuse of prescription drugs in our community by both adults and our youth. The prescription drugs sitting in our medicine cabinets can easily get into the hands of others, bringing about dangerous and sometimes fatal consequences. Contra Costa County has declared the month of March to be Prescription Drug Abuse Awareness Month. The National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse (NCAPDA) is leading a coordinated effort by several prevention agencies and organizations to sponsor activities aimed at raising awareness about the abuse and misuse of prescription drugs, promoting prescription drug safe storing and disposal, and encouraging the use of medications only as prescribed. Some startling statistics about prescription drug abuse include that there were more deaths caused by drug overdoses in 2010 than traffic accidents among people 25 to 64 years old. That same year, drug overdoses in the United States caused 38,329 deaths, and 22,134 of those were from prescription drugs. In 2009, 1.2 million emergency room visits were related to the misuse or abuse of pharmaceuticals (an increase of 98.4% since 2004). Non-medical use of prescription painkillers costs health insurers up to $72.5 billion annually in direct health-care costs. Overdose deaths involving opi-
SAT/ACT - Start Planning for College Now By Susan Sokat, Director of Club Z! In-Home Tutoring
For some students, thoughts and plans for higher education only begin as high school graduation nears. But as the competition to get into college grows more fierce with every year, it’s important for students to make plans sooner rather than later. Wait too long and your spot at the college of your choice just may go to your neighbor in chemistry class. Most students who want a competitive edge in today’s market will be taking an SAT or ACT during the spring of their junior year. First of all, consider which is the best test for you. It is important to know the differences between the two exams. Both tests contain math, reading, and writing, however the SAT has a focus on vocabulary, and the ACT has a section on science. SAT gives you a score for Reading, Writing, and Math. You can obtain a possible 800 on each subtest. ACT gives you a composite score with a highest possible score of 36. You may find that you score higher on one test versus the other, depending on your aptitude for the various subject knowledge they measure. SAT may tend to have “trickier” questions. On the SAT, wrong answers are penalized by .25 of a point, and in some cases it may be better to skip a question than to guess. You will want to know these facts about the tests in order to prepare. You will also want to know when each test is being offered. If you plan to test this spring, the time to sign up is now. It is not uncommon to test several times. All schools will take your best score, and most schools will take your best Reading and best Math on the SAT, even if they do not occur on the same test date. Start by deciding your score goal. Visit the website of your dream school, or visit a website such as www.collegeapps.about.com. You can explore any school in the US and find out what their students have scored on the SAT or ACT. Knowing this will allow you to set goals for a successful score. To give yourself a better chance of increasing your scores on either exam,
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oid pain relievers (OPR) now exceed more deaths than heroin and cocaine combined. As many as 70% of people who abuse prescription drugs get them from a relative or friend instead of a doctor. Awareness Month activities include parenting conference seminars at local high schools, Teens Tackle Tobacco Conference workshops, police officer trainings, screening and discussion of the documentary, Behind the Orange Curtain in Orinda, San Ramon and Concord, and the “ENOUGH! Rally” on the south steps of the Capitol in Sacramento on March 24th. The NCAPDA was founded by San Ramon Valley resident April Rovero, who tragically lost her own son Joey because of a lethal mix of alcohol and misused prescription drugs. April has devoted her life to helping educate the community, change laws, and raise awareness so that others not face what she had to. For information about these events, visit the website of NCAPDA at www.ncapda.org; click on Media Center and Events. To register for the Rally, visit www.enoughrally.com, or contact April directly at info@ncapda. org or 925-980-5490. You can help with the safe disposal of your unused and unwanted prescription drugs by dropping them in a pharmaceutical collection bin in your community. Not only does it keep them out of the wrong hands, but it keeps drugs from entering our water supply through the sewer system. You should never flush medication down toilets. Take your drugs to the green drop box at any one of the locations in District 2 listed below. • City of Walnut Creek, City Hall Lobby, 1666 North Main St., Walnut Creek • Town of Danville, Police Department, 510 La Gonda Dr., Danville • City of Lafayette, Police Department, 3675 Mt. Diablo Blvd., #130, Lafayette (no liquids) • Town of Moraga, Police Department, 329 Rheem Blvd., Moraga • City of Orinda, Police Department, 22 Orinda Way, Orinda • City of San Ramon, Police Department, 2401 Crow Canyon Rd., San Ramon Together, there are many things we can do to make our community a safer, better place to live. Please join me this month in both raising awareness about this issue and properly disposing of prescription drugs. We will change and save lives. consider working with a private tutor. You will want to start with a diagnostic test so that tutoring can be completely individualized. Taking sample practice tests and practicing on your specific areas of weakness is the best strategy for improving your scores. You may want to re-learn concepts that were difficult for you. This is often the case for geometry or algebra. For information on SAT and ACT individualized tutoring, contact Club Z! at (925)786-7149. It is typical to see a 100-200 point gain with the appropriate tutoring plan. Club Z! can customize a program for your goals. Plus the tutoring is individualized in your home. Please find test dates and important information about the SAT and ACT tests at www.clubztutoring.com/ danville. Start planning now for the college of your dreams! Advertorial
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Tip of the Month By Angela Stanford
Buy Organic-Why should I?
So what is the buzz about buying organic foods? What does that “USDA Organic” label mean? Why does organic food cost more? I’m constantly educating people about how to nourish their bodies with food that is “clean and nutrient dense.” Eating organic is big step towards eating to improve health, not only for your body but also for our planet and the bodies of future generations.
Definition of Organic
Organic refers to the way agricultural products are grown and processed. Organic food production is a system of farming that maintains and replenishes soil fertility without the use of toxic pesticides and fertilizers. Organic foods do not contain genetically modified organisms (GMOs) and are minimally processed without artificial ingredients, preservatives, or irradiation to maintain integrity of the food. When it comes to animals, certified organic meat and poultry are free from antibiotics and growth hormones. However, organic standards have yet to be uniformly agreed upon in the U.S. for fish and seafood. A food item is “certified organic” if it has been grown according to strict uniform standards that are verified by a third party, like the Organic Trade Association (OTA) or the USDA National Organic Program. This ‘farm to table’certification includes inspections of farm fields and processing facilities, detailed record keeping, and periodic testing of soil and water to ensure that growers and handlers are meeting standards.
Buy Organic for Your Body
In study after study, research consistently shows organically grown food is higher in nutrients than conventionally grown. Research shows that organic produce is higher in vitamin C (12-20%), antioxidants (up to 40%), and the minerals calcium, iron, chromium, and magnesium. Organic milk is also more nutrient dense. According to a study at the Center for Sustaining Agriculture and Natural Resources at Washington State University, organic milk contains more heart healthy omega-3 fatty acids than milk from conventionally raised cows simply because they eat more grass than corn, like Mother Nature intended. This helps restore a healthier balance of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids in our diet, which helps reduce inflammation. Along with boosting nutrition, eating organic reduces exposure to antibiotics, synthetic hormones, and drugs that find their way into the animals and ultimately into you. These can cause a whole host of issues like hormone imbalances, skin rashes, and inability to lose weight.
Eating organic may also reduce your cancer risk. The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) considers 60% of herbicides, 90% of fungicides, and 30 % of insecticides potentially cancer-causing. It is therefore reasonable to think that the rapidly increasing rates of cancer are at least partly linked to the use of these carcinogenic pesticides.
Buy Organic for the Earth
Evidence supports the fact that eating organic lowers environmental impact. Organic farming methods support greater biodiversity. Diversity is fundamental to life on this planet. Wildlife is allowed to thrive in their natural habitats with fewer obstacles that put them at risk for poor health and extinction. And let’s not forget that genetically modified and non-organic food is focused on high yield monoculture that destroys biodiversity. Organic food is tried and tested. Genetic modification of food is still experimental. Purchasing organic foods helps you avoid being part of this wide-scale and uncontrolled experiment. The bottom line is the growing of organic foods leads to better soil quality, cleaner air and water for wildlife to thrive, and for plants to grow more healthy and nutritious to nourish generations to come.
Does Eating Organic Really Cost More?
The answer to this question is an article in itself. Basically, organic growers don’t use the large amounts of harmful pesticides and herbicides on their crops and have to look for other, often more manual methods of controlling pests and diseases. These methods keep pesticides away from people and the environment, but they cost more. There is also a cost for ongoing education for organic growers, the certification process, paperwork, inspections, planning, and more which is factored into growing, processing, and handling foods organically. That said, many health experts believe that the extra you pay for organics at the grocery store and farmer’s markets is much less than what you will pay in healthcare costs from eating conventionally grown foods laden with toxins and reduced nutritional value. So the next time you are shopping at the grocery store or farmer’s market, choose organic foods for better health for you and your family, a cleaner earth, and a planet nourished well to feed generations to come. Sustainable Danville Area and the Danville Library present ORGANICS on Tuesday, March 25th at 7pm at the Danville Library, Mt. Diablo Room, 400 Front Street. Angela Stanford, MBA, Registered Dietitian and Holistic Nutritionist alongside Cynthia Ruzzi, President and Co-Founder, Sustainable Danville Area will walk you through the basics on how to buy, eat, and grow more organic produce. For more information, visit www.sustainabledanvillearea.com. Follow us at www.facebook.com/sustainabledanvillearea.
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By Beverly Lane, Museum of the San Ramon Valley
Exchange Club of the San Ramon Valley 2014 Scholarship Competition
With the discovery of gold and the conclusion of the Mexican-American War, The Exchange Club of the San Ramon Valley is sponsoring an essay the Mexicans’ bucolic rancho life came to an end. After the Gold Rush, a non-Indian scholarship competition. This year’s contest eligibility includes all 9,10,11 California population of 14,000 swelled to several hundred thousand by 1852. and 12th grade students living in the SRVUSD, including all the district high These new Californians needed food, so cattle, sheep, and fresh produce had schools, private high schools, and home school students within the district. ready markets. Apples went for $1 each. The price of beeves soon reached $500 Students living in the SRVUSD and attending high schools outside the disat Sacramento and, by 1851, cattle were still bringing th from $50 to $150 each. An Visit our office in between now and March 17 , and your name will be entered into our trict are eligible as well. This year’s contest will have a single winner and a estimated 3,000,000 cattle roamed the hills and valleys by the early 1860s. Sheep single prize of $5,000. raffle to win a $50 Gift Card to a local Restaurant! Don’t forget to check in on Facebook herds grew to over one million in the same period. The subject of the essay is a question, “The three War Powers Acts 1941,1942 while you are here, and receive a special St. Patrick’s Day goodie bag. and 1973, are they Constitutional or Unconstitutional?” Students may argue either side of the question, but they must support their position by quoting the Winner will be announced on St. Patrick’s article or amendment to the Constitution that supports their position. A panel will judge the essays and will choose the best three. They will Day, March 17th 2014 on our Facebook page. then interview the three finalists on the content of their essays at a date and time to be announced. The winner will be the one who best supports his or Contact our office today at (925) 837‐6052 her position and will be honored at the Exchange Club luncheon on May 14th. The scholarship will be paid directly to the college the student wishes 3176 Danville Blvd., Suite 2, Alamo to attend upon receipt of a letter of acceptance.
info@amindamodrelldds.com | www.AmindaModrellDDS.com
Black Angus on the Wood Ranch, 1930s
Large cattle herds from the lower Mississippi Valley and southwest were driven overland to meet the demand for beef. Albert Stone, who settled in Alamo, was one of those drove cattle to California when he came for a second time in 1853. These cattle gradually altered the breed which was a significant change, since the rancheros had seen no need to actively improve the abundant stock. The new breeds were usually “British” beef breeds: Hereford, Angus, and Shorthorn. Pioneers from the gold mines settled in the San Ramon Valley’s open country. Early writers recorded seeing wild cattle, horses, and grizzly bears. The settlers
See Ranches continued on page 26
Essay Rules are as follows:
Essay must be 800 to 1,000 words, not including footnotes or bibliographies. Each essay must have a cover sheet containing name, address, phone number, email, school, and grade. All essays must be submitted by e-mail in Word document format no later than 6pm, April 13th. Please include “War Powers Acts” in the e-mail’s subject line. E-mail to tt232425@att.net. The decision of the judges is final. For questions, email tt232425@att.net or call 925-275-2412.
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 15
Alamo Women’s Club
11 Critical Home Inspection Traps to be The Alamo Women’s Club is open to any woman who would like to join Aware of Weeks Before Listing Your a “place where women come together Home for Sale to work toward a better community for all.” We have nearly 100 years of Alamo - According to industry experts, away altogether. In most cases, you can community involvement and a growing there are over 33 physical problems that make a reasonable pre-inspection yourself vibrant membership. will come under scrutiny during a home if you know what you're looking for, and Who We Are: Currently we have 100 members who were born in most of the 50 states and four members who were born in countries inspection when your home is for sale. knowing what you're looking for can help outside the US: Germany, Canada, India, and New Zealand. We have A new report has been prepared which you prevent little problems from growing former National Charity League members, including two past Diablo identifies the 11 most common of these into costly and unmanageable ones. Valley presidents and board members of the Rolling Hills chapter. problems, and what you should know about To help home sellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report Realtors, teachers, AAUW members, Rotarians, PTA members, them before you list your home for sale. Whether you own an old home or a brand entitled "11Things You Need to Know to business owners, private pilots, soccer moms, and local Chamber of Commerce members are included in our Club. Our membership new one, there are a number of things Pass Your Home Inspection" has been also includes bankers, nurses, past Diablo Women’s Garden Club that can fall short of requirements during a compiled which explains the issues involved. officers, three previous Alamo Citizens of the Year, and members home inspection. If not identified and dealt To hear a brief recorded message about who have served in many appointed County positions such as with with, any of these 11 items could cost you how to order your FREE copy of this report, the grand jury, Alamo MAC members, Alamo R-7A members, and dearly in terms of repair. That's why it's call toll-free 1-866-265-1682 and enter CC County Anti Poverty Campaign members. critical that you read this report before 2001. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, Seventy-five percent of our membership has joined our mission since you list your home. If you wait until the 7 days a week. 2009, but our longest standing current member has contributed for 45 building inspector flags these issues for Get your free special report NOW to learn years and joined AWC in 1969! We hope that you will be interested in you, you will almost certainly experience how to ensure a home inspection doesn't joining us and contributing to our community. Please visit www.alamo- costly delays in the close of your home cost you the sale of your home. womensclub.org and become one of our new members!While our Club sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers is located inAlamo, our members are located in many other communities This report is courtesy of J. Rockcliff Realtors #01763819. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2013 as well. We’d love to hear from you and have you join the fun. What We Do: We have a Speaker Series Luncheon each month plus have groups ley High Schools. We also contribute to Del Amigo Continuation School, and fund a scholarship for women returning to school at DVC. We continue to expand this program of Mahjong, a book club, and movie groups. We also have quarterly excursions to inand recently included a scholarship for aged-out foster youth. Join us April 23rd for the teresting places in the Bay Area. We have one main fundraiser each year which helps Scholarship Presentation luncheon. to fund our philanthropies and our annual scholarship program. Speaker Series Luncheon: On March 26th at 11:30am Bruni Nigh will speak at our LunOur philanthropy support is monetary as well as via in-kind donations. Our members cheon. Her topic, “Hats Off!” will cover a history of hats as well as a demonstration of how to frequently help a philanthropy when they have an event and need volunteers. We also have make a hat using her old world European techniques. Bruni grew up in a doll making family in many members who dedicate time to a particular philanthropy of interest including Hospice Germany and is a professor of millinery at San Francisco Academy of Art as well as a business of the East Bay, Canine Companions for Independence, and George Mark Children’s House. owner of Union Street Hats. Some of Bruni’s hats are on display in museums. The non-member Our annual scholarships fund arts students at Monte Vista and San Ramon Val- cost for the event is $25. Please RSVPto njhowsmon@sbcglobal.net. Be sure and wear your hat!
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Page 16 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Golden Gate Fields By Linda Summers Pirkle
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It was not difficult for me to choose who to invite to the historic Golden Gate Fields - the place for horse racing since the 1940’s. Golden Gate Fields is located alongside the Bay crossing the Albany/Berkeley city lines. The racetrack is in Albany, and the stable area is in Berkley. My daughter, Lindsay is known for her luck; she has won tickets to Hawaii, various concert tickets, a signed electric guitar, t-shirts...so of course she was going to the race track with me. We arrived on a Friday morning at 11am, an hour before the first race of the day. Kent Faulk, parking attendant for the past 45 years, told us some stories about the track. He remembers when people arrived in fancy cars, women wearing long gloves, and men in their best suits. “It was a different time. The big owners from Los Angeles would arrive in their big cars.” He noted, “I saw Bing Crosby, Telly Savalas, Mickey Rooney, Jack Klugman Joe Dempsey, and Burt Bacharach.” He explained how the track opened in February 1941, and two weeks later it closed. Torrential rains caused poor track conditions and then the war started. During WWII, the track was used as a naval amphibious landing craft base. The track re-opened in 1947. Tom Ferrall, Publicity Manager for Golden Gate Fields, mentioned some of the great historical moments in racing history. The list of Hall of Fame horsemen to campaign at Golden Gate Fields includes jockeys Willie Shoemaker, Johnny Longden, Ralph Neves, Laffit Pincay, Jr., Chris McCarron, Gary Stevens, Eddie Delahoussaye, and the current kingpin, Russell Baze. It’s not just about the racing though. We talked to Phillip Bencivenga who was with a group from the San Ramon SIRS organization, a fraternal organization of retired men in Northern and Central California. “I haven’t been here is 20 years. I don’t bet, but I’m having a great time watching the horses, enjoying the food, and being with friends. It’s a good day.” Lindsay and I sat above the finish line in the Turf Club. Each table has a small TV screen to watch the race. Our entrance fee included a buffet lunch with lots of food, including prime rib, turkey, and various salads. I always enjoy views of the Bay and the view from inside the women’s lounge at the Fields is truly extraordinary. In doing research for my article I found a quote from the late great Bay Area newspaper columnist Herb Caen who wrote, “The best view of the city of San Francisco is from the men’s room in the Turf Club at Golden Gate Fields.” Golden Gate Fields will throw the biggest Kentucky Derby party in Northern California on Saturday, May 3, when it simulcasts the Run for the Roses from Churchill Downs in Louisville and also puts a live racing card of its own. They will have table seating in the Turf Club, and whisky and cigar parties on an outdoor patio. Reservations are necessary, and this event always sells out. Lindsay and I stayed for five races. Oddly, she didn’t win any of the races. I won in the first and third race; a whopping $12 and $10. As I collected my winnings, Lindsay checked our “losing” tickets at the checker machine. Out popped a receipt for $19--we still don’t know for which race! It proved me right again, Lindsay is lucky. *A good value is” Dollar Day” on Sundays: racing program, general parking, general admission, programs, hot dogs, beer and sodas all cost just one dollar - a real step back in time! *Golden Gate Fields is located at 1100 Eastshore Highway, Berkeley, CA.94710. Their phone number is 510-559-7551. 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 my husband and me, my husband drives and I talk (he’s a captive audience) – the perfect combination! What a great place to live, so much to see, so much to do.” To share your “Quick Trips” ideas email Coverthemap@gmail.com.
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 17
AT
Page 18 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Clip Notes
By Jody Morgan
As St. Patrick’s Day approaches, wee bits of Irish luck in the form of potted shamrocks spring up on florists’ shelves, accenting rainbow-hued blooms with tempting touches of leprechaun green. As you may have noticed, retailers sell several unrelated species as “shamrock plants.” Consult the Western Garden Book, and you’ll find a similar assortment of options under the heading “Shamrock.” Is the shamrock a plant or merely a tri-part design based on a leaf shape present in many different horticultural families? Long before St. Patrick brought his message to Ireland, the Celts considered the number three to have magical powers and trifoliate plants to be possessed of the power to ward off evil. The legend concerning St. Patrick’s 5th century employment of the shamrock as a tool for explaining the Christian Holy Trinity was passed along through oral tradition. Asked how God could be both three and one simultaneously, St Patrick plucked a small compound leaf composed of three leaflets on a single stem to illustrate the concept. Exactly what plant he found at hand has been open to debate for centuries. The Irish began wearing shamrocks on St. Patrick’s Day early in the 17th century. A survey conducted in 1988 by the National Botanic Gardens in Dublin found that there was no agreement about what specific plant provided those shamrocks. Black medick (Medicago lupulina), also known as yellow trefoil, got 7% of the votes. Sometimes sold as the shamrock, black medick is distantly related to clover. Red clover (Trifolium pratense) was favored by 4%, white clover (Trifolium repens) 35%, and lesser hop clover or suckling clover (Trifolium dubium) 46%. An Internet search for “shamrock plants” brings up, instead of any representative of the clover family, a few of the 500+ species of Oxalis. Because they perform well in a container and sport threefold leaves that look precisely like the commercial concept of a shamrock, they are favored in the nursery trade. Although none of the counties in Ireland surveyed reported it as their choice, some historians contend the original shamrock was Oxalis acetosella, one of many species known as wood sorrel. Are they simply confused by the similarity of names? Shamrock is transcribed as “seamrog” and wood sorrel as “seamsog.” How do they explain that “seamrog” also translates as “little clover”? The earliest English language reference to shamrocks appears in Edmund Campion’s 1571 Historie of Irelande. Campion notes that the Irish ate “shamrotes, watercresses, roots and other herbes.” After residing in Ireland for two years, Campion, a distinguished scholar, penned this composition while hiding from the Protestant party of Dublin, who had learned of his preference for Catholicism. Those favoring Oxalis as the true shamrock argue that wood sorrel was part of the Irish diet, but clover never was. A 1617 work by Fynes Moryson also mentions that the Irish consumed “schamrock being of a sharpe taste.” The bitter, pungent flavor of wood sorrel fits this description. Early botanical works are imprecise. In his 1597 Herbal, John Gerard states: “Medow Trefoile is called in Latine Trifolium pratense: in English, Common Trefoile, Three leafed grasse: of some, Suckles, Hony-suckles, and Cocks-heads: in Irish, Shamrocks.” Gerard’s Latin fits the botanical name Linnaeus applied to red clover. However, wood sorrel, described by Gerard directly after his entry on clover, bore the proper name Trifolium acetosum, suggesting it was thought to be clover’s close cousin. Some clovers are not shamrocks, while some Oxalis may be. Four-leaf clovers, held to be extraordinarily lucky by the ancients Celts, are not shamrocks. One in ten thousand white clover plants naturally sports a four-leaf specimen. Rarely, a leaf with more parts occurs. As reported in the 2011 Guinness Book of World Records, a cloverleaf with 56 leaflets was discovered in 2009. Chances of finding a four-leaf clover have been much improved by nurserymen. If you are looking for a dramatic ground cover lucky in every leaf, buy Trifolium repens ‘Atropurpureum’ Dark Dancer. The leaves are a deep burgundy. The white flowers are attractive to bees – important if you want your flowers, fruit trees, and vegetables pollinated. Dark Dancer is considered heat and drought tolerant and aggressive enough to grow back as soon as deer dine on it. The original white clover species will give you a rugged green ground cover resistant to dry, hot conditions. As a member of the legume family, clover provides nitrogen to the soil. Until the 1950s, clover was included as a prestigious component of grass seed mixes.
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A Customer’s Perspective By Mark Becker, GoSimpleSolar
Milestone: As of press time, California has surpassed over 200,000 solar PV project installations. The recurring theme of this column has been that the decision to “go solar” has been primarily financially driven -- safe and highly reliable financial return from a safe and reliable investment, considering of course, a properly installed project, with quality field-proven products. Below I let Alan, one of our customers, do the writing. The details of his solar success were originally sent to me as an informative email. Immediately I recognized the value of what he said, and I asked him for his blessing to use his words for this article. The goal of what he said is to inform you about his success story and the process by which he achieved this financial success. We entertained quotes from four different solar installation companies. While GoSimpleSolar was not the lowest cost quoted, the price was very competitive, and we felt it represented the best overall ‘value.’ That value decision was based upon several criteria. We had a strong degree of confidence that Mark was really interested in educating us about the total purchase – to include the proper sizing for our particular needs, the best orientation and layout to maximize the efficiency of our particular orientation to sunlight, and the best manufacturers of the components. He was professional and low pressure. American made – We were pleased to be placing American made solar panels on our roof from SolarWorld, and my wife liked the all-black aesthetic of the panels we purchased. The Enphase micro-inverters gave us the added benefit of visibility of the kilowatt production of each of the 16 panels we installed, and we were excited about Enphase’s online 24/7 real-time interface to show how much electricity our panels are producing. The Enphase interface lets you see solar production by the day, week, month, or year. Beat expectations – Our system outperformed Mark’s benchmark expectations of kilowatt production in the first year by 18%. Our system offset approximately 85% of our annual electricity costs. Our year-end true-up bill from PG&E was $237. Our total electric outlay to PG&E pre-solar for 12 months was $1,760, so we saved approximately $1,523 in year one. My principal and interest on the loan at 2.8% fixed for 12 months is $108/month or $1,296/year. So we have pulled off what nobody thought was possible and what I thought we couldn’t do - which was to go cash positive in year one based on the low interest rate of 2.8%, which is rolled into our 15-year fixed mortgage. Plug-in Prius – In late 2013 I purchased a new Toyota Plug-in Prius. In addition to Federal and State tax incentives that reduce the net cost of the purchase price, having a partial electric car, Mark informed me that I could go to PG&E and qualify for a different rate plan that further reduces our cost per kilowatt and enables me to charge my car for a kilowatt rate that is below Tier 1 from PG&E. This essentially enables me to drive in the electric mode for virtually free for the first 11 miles I travel each day. Mark and Bob have been true professionals throughout the entire process from the initial sales presentation, to further education, and are always there to field any emails or phone calls with questions post sale. What is the take away of Alan’s quote? A homeowner who is passionate about saving money. Recognition of what is the lowest long-term cost of ownership versus the lowest initial cost. An engaged sales process with a tailored approach to determine customer’s needs. The strive for efficiency to couple with solar PV. Consultation on navigating the financing options that best fit the customer’s financial circumstances. Continuing education after the sale is complete. The advantage of doing business with a company that has a brick and mortar place of business so the customer can see the products and meet the installers before purchasing decisions of this magnitude are made. Taking and executing the right approach should be the baseline from which all businesses should start. Mark Becker is the President of GoSimpleSolar, by Semper Fidelis Construction Inc, a Danville based Solar Installation Firm (License 948715). GoSimpleSolar can be reached at 925-331-8011. Visit GoSimpleSolar’s NEW and larger showroom at 100 Railroad Avenue, Suite B, Danville (behind Pete’s Brass Rail) and receive a $500 discount on your solar system. Go to www.GoSimpleSolar. Advertorial com for a free quote, or email info@GoSimpleSolar.com.
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 19
Life in the Alamo Garden
By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect More than a Garden
Over the many years of writing “Life in the Alamo Garden” and following up with my clients after they have lived in their gardens, I have discovered some new distinctions about our Alamo gardens. There are many aspects to a garden, and I have attempted to cover the important ones over the years. I have talked about the various elements of design as well as practical advice such as how to save and conserve water and select plants for deer territory. As a landscape architect with more than 35 years of experience in California, I have come to the conclusion there is so much more to a garden that meets the eye.
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When you think about it, it is more than a garden! A garden has the power to rejuvenate, inspire, and relax. When you take in consideration how we use our Alamo gardens, what comes to mind are the endless hours of peaceful contemplation, lively gatherings, and toiled love. We use our gardens not just for something beautiful to look at; although that is part of it. When I design a client’s garden, I first have them answer a questionnaire that I have developed over many years. I ask questions spanning the gambit from functionality and budget to their vision. I delve into specifics but I also try to go deep into what makes them feel they way they want to feel when they are in their garden. What I am bringing to the design is more than a garden! In this busy world we all deserve our own little paradise where we can retreat to. We are blessed to live in such a beautiful area where we can consider the garden as an extension of our homes. Here in Alamo we can live outside just about as much as we live inside. Consider the time spent in the swimming pool, playing sports with the kids, barbecuing and eating outdoors, harvesting fruits and veggies, and reading a good book under a shade tree on a warm spring day. All these activities add so many dimensions to our lives outdoors, making the space more than a garden. When it is more than a garden we have the opportunity to use our gardens for other activities that contribute to our families, friends, and community. Think of the limitless activities and special events you can have such as weddings, anniversary celebrations, graduation parties, birthday parties, etc. Garden tours have also become a viable way to raise needed donations for some very worthy organizations. A well designed garden can present endless opportunities to bring family, and community, together. Over the years my wonderful clients have generously offered their gardens for various garden tours. By popular demand, I have been requested to organize our 4th Annual Garden Tour Fundraiser, “Life in the Alamo-Danville Garden.” Ticket sales will benefit local charities such as the Quincy Lee Foundation, the Bounty Garden (a community garden growing fresh produce for the Food Bank), Lazarex Cancer Foundation, Guide Dogs for the Blind Contra Costa Puppy Raising Club, Alamo Rotary, and others. Over the years the tour has been surprisingly successful! We have had between 300-500 people attend and generated close to $15,000 for these wonderful organizations. A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: JMLA is delighted to announce our 4th Annual Garden Tour Fundraiser, “Life in the Alamo-Danville Garden,” a tour of five distinct gardens in Alamo and Danville. I invite you to come enjoy the afternoon with us. Stroll the gardens, chat with me, and enjoy several surprises we have planned. Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 3rd from 11am-4pm. For more info, go to our website and click on the garden tour page. It will be a pleasure to meet you all! Gardening Quote of the Month: “Gardeners are - let’s face it - control freaks. Who else would willingly spend his leisure hours wrestling weeds out of the ground, blithely making life or death decisions about living beings, moving earth from here to there, and changing the course of waterways? The more one thinks
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about it, the odder it seems; this compulsion to remake a little corner of the planet according to some plan or vision.” ~ Abby Adams, What is a Garden Anyway 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
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Page 20 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Spring Pruning
By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb
Once again, it’s that time of year when the landscape grows lush, beautiful – and out of control. At Brende & Lamb, we prune to balance the practical with the aesthetic. When our clients ask us to restore their views, bring more light into their gardens, and reduce fire hazards, we do our best to keep their screening intact and to protect their privacy. At the same time, we work hard to enhance the natural beauty of their trees. Balancing your tree care needs are skills we’ve developed over decades of caring for trees.
Aesthetic Pruning
Each plant has a natural growth pattern. Aesthetic pruning accentuates the shape given the plant by nature, and good pruning creates a light and open feeling. A well pruned plant enhances the observer’s experience by accentuating the interplay of light and shadow, open spaces and denser spaces, and the sculptural elements revealed in a tree’s trunk and branch. Offer expires 03/31/14 The first step in aesthetic pruning is to see the flow of the tree. We begin by looking at the base of the trunk, and then let our eyes follow the trunk upward into the branches and out to the branch tips. We notice how the flow of the branches determines the tree’s form. The form may be weeping, as with Willows and Chinese Elms. Perhaps, as with Monterey Cypress, the branches form at acute angles to the trunk, giving the tree an upswept look. Or the branches may bend and twist, forming complex arcs, as does the Coast Live Oak. Within these patterns, each tree has its own unique form and flow.
Pruning and Size Reduction
It is important to prune in a manner that does not harm the health of the tree. When thinning a pine, for example, it is important not to strip the major branches of their smaller branches, a practice called “lion-tailing” which leaves a branch denuded except for foliage at the end. Lion-tailing increases the chance of branch failure by concentrating the weight at the branch tips. A healthier tree, and more subtly beautiful look, is achieved by thinning to highlight the spaces or “layers” in a trees natural patterns. Removing diseased wood, and removing or reducing crossing branches that interrupt the natural flow, lets in more light and air, encouraging interior growth and overall health. Careful pruning can increase desired screening over time by encouraging interior growth.
Aesthetic View Work
In view work, the beauty of the view and the beauty of the tree often seem to be in conflict. Some tree-workers will sacrifice the tree for the view by “topping” the tree. Topping is almost always a bad idea. “Topping” creates a dense re-growth in “water-sprouts” that is unsightly. But more than the tree’s beauty is at stake here. Topping wounds the tree and promotes disease, including heart rot, and can make the tree dangerous. The water-sprouts on a topped tree are not deeply anchored in the trunk and are subject to failure in high winds. Add in the fact that these sprouts may be anchored onto a rotting trunk, and you have a safety problem that gets worse over time. Responsible arborists do not top trees. Removing a tree, perhaps replacing it with a smaller variety that can be kept out of the view, is usually preferable to beheading it. Looking at tree and view as two elements that complement each other can often solve view problems. Sometimes, lightly bringing the tree back without cutting into major branches can prevent further encroachment on the view. To open even more of the view, we create windows by selectively removing branches not essential for the tree’s natural form. We can enlarge these windows by removing branchlets that rise or drop into the view. Thinning above and below the window creates a feeling of openness, rather than gaping hole. The
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image formed by Mt. Diablo framed by the trembling leafs of a well-windowed tree proves that nature and civilization can complement each other. If your trees need a little TLC, please call 510-486-TREE (8733) or email us at bl@brendelamb.com for a free estimate. Additionally, go to our website www. brendelamb.com to see before and after pictures, client testimonials, and work in your neighborhood. Advertorial
Discovering a Sense of Place
The Gardens at Heather Farm and City of Walnut Creek Clean Water Program presents an exciting speaker series called “Discovering a Sense of Place.” A line-up of local naturalists will be sharing their expertise to guide participants in discovering the breathtaking area we live in, known as the Diablo Range. This unique series promises to be a transformational experience for anyone interested in delving deeper into local natural history- from the foothills of Mt. Diablo to one’s own backyard! Travel back in time and find out about local Native American Culture on Mt. Diablo and the importance of the Delta and the farming industry in California. Observe nature’s nuances with the introduction of phenology, and learn how creating healing spaces for yourself is also good for the environment. All programs are FREE but require registration by phone at (925)947-1678. All lectures begin at 7pm. Doors open at 6:30pm. Field trip details are available upon reservation. •March 26 - The Delta: Its History, Beauty, and Its Future • March 29 - Field Trip to Big Break Regional Shoreline • April 30 - Creating Landscapes That Sustain Us and the Planet • June 4 - An Introduction to Citizen Science (Phenology) • June 7- Field Trip to City Creek Walk The lectures take place at The Gardens at Heather Farm, located at 1540 Marchbanks Drive in Walnut Creek. For information or to register, call (925)947-1678 or visit www.gardenshf.org.
Walnut Creek Garden Club
The Walnut Creek Garden Club will hold their next meeting on Monday, March 10 at 9:30AM at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Road, Walnut Creek. There will be a business meeting, social time, and program featuring Doc Hale, the East Bay Area’s Premier Naturalist. Doc Hale was born and raised in the East Bay Area and has been hiking and observing wildlife in the area for over 40 years. The East Bay Area is one of the most beautiful locations on earth, and Doc is committed to protecting its wildlife, and natural and cultural resources, and sharing his knowledge with people of all ages. Guests and prospective members are welcome. For more information, contact mslittle44@gmail.com.
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 21
Water * Earth * Sky
The “Water * Earth * Sky” living history series provides a unique opportunity to investigate key events that have profoundly affected the lives of people who live in our San Ramon • A trusted, high integrity, locally owned Valley and evokes stories that still resonate with company us. The Danville Library, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, and Role Players Ensemble have • Highest quality installations all collaborated to present this series, so be sure to • Experienced with installations in your attend all three presentations, and bring a friend. neighborhood “Water” – March 12 – Mary Grim highlights • Flexible financing options to suit a wide “San Ramon Creek: Past Secrets, Future Visions.” spectrum of fiscal situations Repeated flooding stranded Oakland, Antioch, and • Free estimates Eastern Railroad trains in Danville in 1916 and 1917. One Museum volunteer remembers how • Government incentives San Ramon Valley High School students were are still available drafted to build sandbag walls to protect the school from the rapidly rising waters of the creek in the 1950’s. Mary Grim, who until recently was the Watershed Coordinator for the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District and still works with Friends of San Ramon Creek, shares her insights at 7PM in the Diablo Room of the Danville Library, 400 Front Street. No Charge. “Earth” – April 1 – Mark Goodwin tells us about “Mastodons in Danville: the Early Residents of Blackhawk Ranch.” Ten million years ago there were others living in the San Ramon Use promo code: NEST to Valley--mastodons and various prehistoric anirecieve a mals. Their fossil bones are still found at Blackhawk Quarry, and some are on display at the Museum. Mark Goodwin, Assistant Director of the UC Berkeley Museum of Paleontology, takes us back in time when these creatures roamed the with your installation spaces we now call home. Mark consulted with the Museum almost a decade ago when it hosted the Mastodon Exhibit. Was there really a BlackBe a SMART Homeowner, choose hawk Quarry? Come to the Danville Library PM Diablo Room at 7 to find out. No Charge. “Sky” – May 7 – Do not miss Tassajara, 1964, an original play written by Role Players Ensemble Artistic Director, Eric Hayes and performed by Role Players Ensemble. What hap925.228.4SUN (4786) pens when a small town wakes up to the news that a national tragedy literally fell on their comwww.solaruniverse.com CSLB Lic. #785075 munity from the sky? This play is a sequel to the Museum’s recent “Mystery in the Sky” exhibit and is an exploration of the many lives touched Horses Visit the Museum by the tragic crash of Pacific Airlines Flight 773. The play will be performed Horses from the East Bay Regional Park District will come to the Museum of on the 50th anniversary of the crash at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, the San Ramon Valley in Danville from noon to 3PM on March 23 and April 27. 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville. Tickets costing $20 are available at the door. A corral will be set up, and visitors can pet, feed, and get acquainted with horses. The Park District’s Volunteer Safety Patrol equestrians ride throughout Assistance League Offers Scholarships the regional parks and educate visitors about horses. They also participate in Assistance League® of Diablo Valley began offering scholarships in 1999. One the Danville July 4th parade each year. of eight philanthropic programs, scholarships provide financial aid to qualifying These visits accompany the new exhibit at the museum, “Cowboys and high school students, community college students, as well as foster youth in the Cattlemen: Ranching in the San Ramon Valley.” Much of the exhibit feaContra Costa community who are planning to enter a community college, a four tures horses and cowboys and includes several saddles from local historic year university, or a vocational school in the fall of 2014. Applicants must demranch families. A section on professional cowboys and cowgirls has rodeo onstrate the need for financial aid and a desire to further their education, maintain photographs, prize buckles, rodeo equipment, and stories. a specified grade point average, participate in campus life, be hands-on involved The exhibit focuses on cattle ranching from a historic perspective. Some in community service, and provide a timeline for academic and career goals. of the cattle ranches described in the exhibit include Blackhawk, Elworthy, High School Scholarships: For seniors graduating from any high school in Contra Dougherty Valley, Magee, Fereira, Wiedemann, Wood, and Rasmussen. Costa County and entering a two-year or four-year college. Application deadline is Learn stories about these families and the challenges and joys of ranching March 14. Foster Youth Scholarships: For current or former dependents of the court in modern times. Each Saturday there will be ranchers talking informally to in the foster care program of Contra Costa County eligible to attend a two-year college, four-year college, or accredited vocational school. Application deadline is March 21. visitors and chances for kids to try out roping skills on a “steer.” The museum is located at 205 Railroad Avenue in downtown Danville. For more information and applications, visit diablovalley.assistanceleague.org. Contact Beverly Lane with questions at 837-7715 or beverlywlane@gmail.com.
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Page 22 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Best Wireless Performance By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO
Last April I wrote about wireless networking from the perspective of the tools that we use to troubleshoot problems. I described how most people never invest the time and money to manage by fact, but that we do, and we have great results. The most common problems we find with wireless networks are poor placement, interference, and cheap equipment. I’ll talk about placement first, because it’s the most common mistake we see. Wireless signals are fragile. They don’t penetrate through objects very well, and they are easily distorted and deflected. When your wireless equipment is mounted improperly, you put your wireless network at an instant disadvantage and cut down its effective range. Using water as an analogy, think of wireless signals like you would a fire sprinkler in your house. If you wanted water from that sprinkler to get everything in your family room and kitchen wet, would you mount the sprinkler in an entertainment center cabinet at knee-height behind a thick door? Of course not. The reason we find this improper installation is because most of the people who install home wiring and AV systems don’t understand wireless technology, its limitations, and how it should be installed. Unfortunately, it’s you the homeowner who ends up paying the price, either in poor performance, additional equipment to fill in the coverage gaps, or in re-doing the job that should have been done correctly in the first place. We see this so often that I’m compelled to say something, because we find poorly planned wiring is unfortunately the rule, not the exception. If this article causes just one home or business-owner to consult us before they start a wiring project, it’s worth it. As long as I’m talking about vendors who install wiring, I have to mention Get Wired Communications. Started by Will Cardenas about eight years ago, Get Wired performs all types of low-voltage wiring (phone, computer data/wireless, alarm, cameras, cable TV). If you have any wiring project or are planning a home or office remodel, you should call them first. If your contractor assures you that they will handle wiring for you, I’d recommend a second opinion. Contractors are great at constructing buildings, but low-voltage wiring is a specialty unto itself and you want a professional who thoroughly understands it. You can reach Get
Museum of SRV Upcoming Programs
The Museum of the San Ramon Valley announces the following upcoming events. • March 8 ~ 2 - 3:30PM ~ Saturday History Tour: Tour of Hap Magee Ranch Park on La Gonda. Join historian Beverly Lane for a walking tour and a look at the special Magee “brand room.” Co-sponsored by the Town of Danville. • March 15 ~ 11AM ~ Saturday Speaker: Rancher Don Wood and historian Beverly Lane: “Ranching in the San Ramon Valley, history and stories.” • March 20 ~ 7PM ~ Thursday Program: SRV Historical Society Speaker David Behring: “The Blackhawk Ranch” at the San Ramon Royal Vista Golf Course, 9430 Fircrest Ln, San Ramon. $20 (includes dinner and talk) For reservations call 925-837-9382. • March 23 ~ 1 - 3PM ~ Sunday Museum Visit: Meet and greet horses at the East Bay Regional Park Public Safety mounted patrol will bring their calm horses to the museum. A chance to meet, pet, and feed them. • March 29 ~ 11AM ~ Saturday Speaker: Rancher Jim Holmes of the Broken Tongue Land and Livestock Co.: “Interesting Facts about Today’s Cattle Business.” The Museum is located at 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville and is open Tuesday-Friday 1-4, Saturday 10-1, and Sunday 12-3. For more information, visit srvmuseum.org or call (925) 837-3750.
Wired at (925) 609-4388, or email them at info@getwiredcommunications.com. I mentioned in April that we’re seeing a lot more wireless interference these days. In the ensuing ten months it’s become even more so, even in residential areas. I recently visited a home in Lafayette where the wireless signal was being heavily interfered with by neighboring homes and their improperly configured wireless networks. The neighbors were splattering their network signal across several wireless channels at once, monopolizing the frequencies that need to be shared. We see this in congested urban environments like UC Berkeley’s Greek housing, where the legacy 2.4GHz wireless is utterly unusable from approximately 6pm until 2am, when all the students are online. The answer to the interference problem is to go up-market in your wireless equipment. If you are in the market for new gear, make sure your wireless equipment is “Dual-Band” capable, because it allows you to use both the legacy 2.4GHz frequencies and the new uncongested 5GHz frequencies. The same thing goes for your computer, in that it must be dual-band capable to take advantage of what your wireless network is putting out. If you have a good laptop but it’s only single-band capable, consider adding a dual-band USB wireless adapter. You can buy them at Amazon.com and they cost between $35 and $65. In congested areas they’re well worth the expense. We’ve settled on two brands of wireless equipment for our clients. The highend is made by Meraki, a wireless company now owned by Cisco. They have the best cloud-managed wireless system I’ve ever seen, and it has revolutionized our ability to solve customer wireless problems. Ask us for a demo of this system if you’re curious, because it’s pretty fun to show people how much information this system gives us. The less-expensive wireless product we provide is by Engenius. Both the Engenius and the Meraki products are capable of outputting a full watt of wireless radio power, which is the legal limit. Most wireless gear isn’t this powerful, and we find this gives our equipment an edge in difficult installations. Wireless networking is a science, it’s an art, and it’s a little voodoo. One thing for sure is that you want to bring in someone who has done this before and has the tools and experience to design a wired and wireless solution for your environment that makes sense and uses facts instead of guesswork. Between us and Get Wired Communications, you have powerful friends in the networking business! If you’re thinking about networking, a remodel, or have wireless issues, give us a call at 925-552-7953 or email info@theportablecio. com, and we’ll point you in the right direction. Advertorial
“Run For The Roses” “Run “Run For For The The Roses” Roses” “Run For The Roses”
A Kentucky Derby Gala benefitting AAKentucky KentuckyDerby DerbyGala Gala
A Kentucky DerbyRiding Gala Xenophon Therapeutic Center benefitting benefitting
Contra Costa Wind Symphony
benefitting
Xenophon Xenophon Therapeutic Therapeutic Riding Riding Center Center
Date: March 22, 2014
Xenophon Therapeutic Riding Center
The Contra Costa Wind Symphony presents Mountains and Canyons at 7:30PM on March 9 at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek. Time: 6:00 PM—10:00 PM The majestic settings of the Grand Canyon, Mount Diablo, Machu Picchu Date: Date:March March22, 22,2014 2014 Location: Round Hill Country Club, Alamo and the Shenandoah River serve as the inspirational backdrop for Contra Costa Date: March 22, 2014 Time: Time:6:00 6:00PM—10:00 PM—10:00PM PM Wind Symphony’s upcoming Spring Concert, featuring the West Coast premiere Tickets: $100.00 per person, reservation required. Time: 6:00Round PM—10:00 of a new transcription of Ferde Grofé’s “Grand Canyon Suite” by Randol Alan Location: Country Location: RoundHill HillPM CountryClub, Club,Alamo Alamo Bass, as well as a reprise of Steven Reineke’s acclaimed “Mount Diablo:Attire: A Dress in your Derby best, and don your finest hat. Prize will be given for best hat! Location: Round Hill Country Club, Alamo Tickets:$100.00 $100.00per perperson, person,reservation reservationrequired. required. Symphonic Portrait.” The concert will also feature Satoshi Yagisawa’s “Machu Tickets: Tickets: $100.00 per person, reservation required. Picchu: City in the Sky” and Bass’s arrangement of “Shenandoah.” Attire: Attire:Dress Dressininyour yourDerby Derbybest, best,and anddon donyour yourfinest finesthat. hat. Prize Prizewill willbebegiven givenfor forbest besthat! hat! To buy tickets, call (925) 943-SHOW or visit lesherartscenter.org. Tickets Attire: Dress in your Derby best, and don your finest hat. Prize will be given for best hat! For information and tickets visit www.xenophontrc.org are $25 for adults, $18 for seniors, and complimentary for students. Contact: Mari Parino - mparino@xenophontrc.org Office: 925-377-0871 For additional information, visit www.ccwindsymphony.org. For Forinformation informationand andtickets ticketsvisit visitwww.xenophontrc.org www.xenophontrc.org For information and tickets visit www.xenophontrc.org Office: Office:925-377-0871 925-377-0871
Contact: Contact:Mari MariParino Parino- -mparino@xenophontrc.org mparino@xenophontrc.org Contact: Mari Parino - mparino@xenophontrc.org
Office: 925-377-0871
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Don’t Let Health Care Costs Crack Your Nest Egg
Brought to you By Peter, Jim, Paul, and Bob
In conjunction with Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a registered investment advisor
Escalating health care costs can undermine the best-laid retirement plans. One of the biggest risks lies in the cost of long-term care. Unfortunately, health care costs in general have been outpacing inflation, and this trend to may continue. Even if you’re currently in good health, you can’t guarantee that it’ll continue in your later years. Not being prepared can be very expensive. According to MetLife, the national average cost for a semiprivate room in a nursing home is $6,752 a month and $7,543 a month for a private room*. At that rate, it wouldn’t take long to put a sizable dent in the most nest eggs. Most people think of long-term care as nursing-home care, but, in fact, most of the people who need long-term care need it in their own homes or in assisted living. This means that nursing homes are only one part of the picture. About 60% of the population over age 75 will need long-term care for approximately three years, whether in a nursing home, assisted-living facility, or at home. The latter two alternatives – while usually less expensive than nursing-home care – are by no means cheap. Care in an assisted living unit costs $3,550 a month on average, according to MetLife.* Round-the-clock care at home can also add up fast.
Insuring Against the Cost
Long-term care insurance policies are designed to defray the cost of nursing-home, assisted-living and at-home care – costs that are not covered by Medicare except in very limited circumstances. Today’s policies typically offer the same daily benefit for each level of care. Eligibility kicks in when an individual is unable to perform two out of six “activities of daily living.” These include toileting, bathing, and being ambulatory. If you have $10 million in assets, you may not need long-term care insur-
Contra Costa Cribbage Club
15-two, 15-four, a pair for six and a run of three make nine. Hearing this gibberish while seeing two opponents, a deck of cards and a slab of wood that looks like it was attacked by a crazed, but linear minded woodpecker, can only mean one thing. The game is cribbage, a two-person card game dating back to its inception in England during the early 1630s. Cribbage came across the pond with the Pilgrims and has flourished ever since. In 1979 the American Cribbage Congress (ACC) was formed to standardize the rules and promote the game on a national basis. The ACC Grass Roots program was then created to promote cribbage through organized play at the hometown level. It awards lifetime ranking points for players to be recognized locally, regionally, and nationally. The Contra Costa Cribbage Club (CCCC) is one of 188 active Grass Roots clubs across the country. Club director Adrian Levy learned the game when he was 10-years old from his British father. Decades later, he’s still happy to play the game and offer it to others. “Cribbage is a game of probability and psychology, much like poker. But most of all, it’s a fun social game for people of all backgrounds and ages,” says Levy. The members of the CCCC can be found every Wednesday evening at pm 6 “salting the crib” and avoiding the dreaded “skunk.” They play a ninegame format. The CCCC offers cribbage aficionados a chance to play this great game at an affordable price, too. Members pay a $1 entry fee to the club. Optional pools are paid out to the top 25% of the participants, as well as the high hand. The Club meets at the offices of Dudum Real Estate, 1910 Suite100, Walnut Creek. Visitors are welcome. For further information, call Adrian Levy at 925-899-1928.
Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 23 ance. But $5 million may not be enough, as comfortable as it seems, especially if half of those assets are locked up in illiquid assets such as real estate or if you want to leave as much of your estate as possible to your heirs. The government adds an incentive in terms of partially tax-deductible premiums. For 2013 the yearly maximum deductible amount of $360 for those under age 40 rises to $4,550 for those over age 70. But don’t wait to buy long-term care insurance until age 65, because premiums then could be very high. The most cost-effective purchase point is from the early 40s to the early 50s. Whenever you buy, be sure to buy a policy that increases benefits to keep pace with inflation. You can also keep costs manageable by electing a waiting period before benefits begin and by limiting the length of coverage to four or five years instead of a lifetime.
Beyond Long-Term Care
If you retire at age 65 or beyond, Medicare plus a Medicare Supplement policy should cover most of your medical expenses. If you retire earlier, however, you may want to purchase a personal health insurance policy. Either way, it’s crucial to select coverage that matches your lifestyle. For example, if you enjoy foreign travel, you may want to consider a policy that includes coverage outside of the United States. Long-term care insurance is designed to be flexible where you can control the costs relative to the benefits you wish to receive. Long-term care policies offer various kinds of coverage. Some offer adjustments for inflation, others pay only for a stated number of days, and others offer a life-time benefit. When deciding on a policy, you should compare the benefits of different types of policies, the limitations and exclusions, the types of facilities the policy would cover, and the cost of the premiums. Please contact Peter Waldron at 925-659-0383 to schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation, or email peter.waldron@lfg.com.
CRN201202-2064361 Paul Solorzano: California Insurance License #0A46330, Peter T. Waldron: California Insurance License #0E47827, Robert J. Waldron, Jr.: California Insurance License #0686859, James R. Westermeyer: California Insurance License #0C17637. Peter T. Waldron, James R. Westermeyer, Paul Solorzano, & Robert J. Waldron Jr. are registered representatives of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offers investment advisory service through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln FinancialAdvisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Spectrum Wealth Partners, 3000 Executive Parkway, Ste 400, San Ramon, CA 94583. Insurance offered through Lincoln affiliates and other fine companies. This information should not be construed as legal or tax advice. You may want to consult a tax advisor regarding this information as it relates to your personal circumstance. The content of this material was provided to you by Lincoln FinancialAdvisors Corp. for its representatives and their clients. Advertorial
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Diablo Choral Artists
Diablo Choral Artists (formerly Voices of Musica Sacra) will be performing Dona Nobis Pacem, a concert of songs of struggle and peace, both ancient and modern. • March 22, 8PM ~ St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, 1924 Trinity Ave., Walnut Creek • March 23, 3:30PM ~ St. John Vianney Catholic Church, 1650 Ygnacio Valley Rd., Walnut Creek For more information, visit www.vmschorus.org or e-mail info@vmschorus.org.
Enjoy Our Patio Dining Monday - Saturday: Lunch and Dinner Sunday: Dinner only We Offer a Full Bar and Lounge 3168 Danville Blvd, Alamo Margaritas are a House Specialty
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Page 24 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Estate Planning for IRAs By Robert J. Silverman
Many people establish an Individual Retirement Account (“IRA”), and much is written about these interesting investment vehicles. They are highly touted because they can be funded with pre-tax dollars (i.e. taxpayers can receive a tax deduction for IRA contributions, up to certain limits). Moreover, these accounts are able to grow on a tax deferred basis until funds are withdrawn, subject to certain penalties that can be imposed if the IRA owner withdraws before reaching the age of 59 1/2, and subject to mandatory minimum required distributions the year after the IRA owner turns 70 1/2. Despite the fact that aging workers and retirees have built up substantial wealth in IRAs and that IRAs commonly represent a very significant percentage of a person’s total assets, the topic of inheriting IRAs doesn’t receive a lot of media coverage. Even the basic rules and issues involved in inheriting IRAs are sometimes unknown to or misunderstood by IRA owners. So, what should an IRA owner know, and what should an IRA inheritor know about this subject? Below are important pieces of the puzzle, but first a caveat: whether you are an IRA owner or IRA inheritor, be sure to talk to your financial and tax advisors about all relevant details and alternatives before taking any action, as IRA rules and exceptions are many and complex! 1) The beneficiary designation on file with the IRA custodian (i.e. financial institution) at the time of the IRA owner’s death governs who is entitled to inherit the IRA, and the IRA goes to the beneficiary without being subject to probate. The IRA owner’s Living Trust or Will does not control this unless there is no beneficiary designated or no beneficiary alive upon the owner’s death. 2) It is imperative that you confirm that your IRA custodian has a beneficiary designation on file that: a) lists the primary beneficiary(ies) you want to inherit your IRA (and if multiple beneficiaries, the fractional interest to go to each); and b) designates a secondary/contingent beneficiary(ies) - in case the primary beneficiary predeceases you. 3) If you are the designated beneficiary and thus inherit all or a portion of an IRA, you have the choice to: a) continue to own the IRA as an “inherited IRA”
By Roger Smith, President Roundabouts
Alamo Area of Benefit (AOB) meetings took place during 2013. Use of the funding for auto, pedestrian, and bicycle traffic safety improvements forAlamo was discussed at those meetings (see www.contracosta.ca.gov and search for “roundabout”). In 2014, the Alamo MAC is reviewing several projects that can be considered for funding. One of the projects being considered is a roundabout as a solution toAlamo’s downtown traffic. “The typical roundabout is usually no larger than a baseball infield,” Tony Redington of the Vermont Agency of Transportation says. “It does two important things: It forces drivers to slow down, generally from 35 to 45 mph, to about 20 to 25 mph, and because traffic moves in one direction around the circle, accidents occur less frequently than at a signalized intersection. When cars do crash, the accidents are less severe.” Read more at www.sptimes. com/News/031700/Hillsborough/A_vicious_circle.shtml. To learn about navigating a roundabout, visit www.wikihow.com/Navigate-a-Roundabout or www.youtube.com/watch?v=MywmtskFiiI. For further information and videos, see www.timesunion.com/local/article/The-roundabout-Is-it-a-vicious-circle-1440833.php, and www.iihs.org/iihs/topics/t/roundabouts/qanda.
Review of draft TVTC plan for routes of regional significance
The Tri-Valley Transportation Council (TVTC) is a stand-alone regional government body made up of elected officials from Contra Costa County, Danville, San Ramon, Alameda County, Dublin, Livermore, and Pleasanton. It collects fees from developers in those areas to pay toward regional traffic mitigation projects in the same jurisdictions. TVTC is the same government body that voted to fund the county’s unpopular downtown Alamo widening traffic mitigation project in the previous five-year TVTC action plan in January 2008 and then voted the following June to defund the project after protests from hundreds of Alamo residents. Here are our significant “take-aways” from the TVTC draft plan. Page numbers listed refer to the page numbers of the staff report available for
or “stretch IRA”, which enables you to enjoy tax deferred growth of the IRA assets over your life expectancy OR b) cash out the IRA, pay all of the deferred taxes and be left with the remaining post-tax funds that will no longer be in a tax-deferred vehicle. Note that spouse beneficiaries have additional options. 4) IRA inheritors choosing to keep an IRA must be very careful in giving instructions to the IRA custodian. If you are not the IRA owner’s spouse, the IRA must not be put into your name or touch your hands in any manner; rather, it must stay in the name of the deceased IRA owner, with you listed as the beneficiary. 5) An IRA owner needs to coordinate estate planning of other assets - e.g. via terms of a living trust and/or a Will - to make sure everything is integrated. Absent such coordination, unintended consequences can occur. For example, suppose a person has a $500,000 IRA and $1.5 Million of other net assets. The IRA owner has a Living Trust that provides for cash gifts of $100,000 to each of his five grandchildren ($500,000 total) and the balance to his children. The IRA owner is under the impression that the $500,000 IRA will satisfy the $500,000 of cash gifts to the grandchildren specified in his Trust. However, if no express language to that effect is stated in the Trust, the result will be that the grandchildren receive the $500,000 IRA from the IRA custodian as the designated beneficiaries and an additional $500,000 in cash gifts from the trustee of the Trust. 6) If you have charitable intent, consider the tax efficiency of designating a charity as beneficiary of your IRA. Unlike with loved ones, the charity will not incur the burden of paying deferred income tax when the charity withdraws the IRA assets. 7) If you have minor or young adult children, you should discuss with your estate planning attorney the pros and cons of naming your Living Trust, rather than the children directly, as beneficiaries or contingent beneficiaries of your IRA. Mr. Silverman is an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group, 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 240, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474, rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw. com, www.silvermanlaw.com. * Estate Planning * Trust Administration & Probate * Real Estate * Business This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and is not intended nor should it be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain and rely upon specific advice only from their own qualified professional advisors. This communication is not intended or written to be used, for the purpose of: i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code; or ii) promoting, marketing, or recommending to another party any matters addressed herein. Advertorial
download on our website www.alamoca.org. • It isn’t necessarily complete. Data necessary to establish reasons for actions or projects to RRS are not yet available (pages 91, 92 of the full agenda packet). • Currently, TVTC standards and measurements are largely met in Contra Costa County, but growth is expected to cause them to be exceeded by 2040 even with planned actions or projects (page 124). • Danville Boulevard is designated “none” for actions or projects to RRS (page 105), but that designation is, of course, according to currently available data. • The Iron Horse Trail (IHT) is designated a new RRS subject to traffic standards and measurements - as all RRS are - although the IHT measurements are developed for non-motorized uses. These measurements include pedestrian and bike volumes, auto volumes at crossings, average trail user delay at major road crossings, frequency of bike or pedestrian injury, and pavement conditions (page 76). No intended change of use in the IHT is implied (page 72). • Intersections in downtowns are exempt from traffic standards and measurements (page 75). • Contra Costa local jurisdictions (in Alamo’s case, the county) must implement TVTC actions in the plan to comply with Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) rules or risk losing their CCTA return-to-source transportation half-cent sales tax funds (page 123). A jurisdiction doesn’t necessarily lose those funds if it doesn’t achieve the desired standards and measurements for a route of regional significance. It can document, monitor, and address those problems in a future update (page 127). However, if a jurisdiction’s proposed development or general plan amendment (for a new development) would worsen an already exceeded standard, then the jurisdiction would risk its share of the sales tax revenue if it didn’t implement the action or project on the route (page 128). • Five of the seven TVTC members can pass an Action Plan for a RRS (page 123). This means that an action or project on a RRS can be passed over the objections of two jurisdictions, including the one in which the RRS is located.
AIA and Membership
As Board President, I want to thank all of our many volunteers, both past and present, for their efforts over the last 59 years in making Alamo into the wonderful community that it is today. AIA is a self-supporting 501c3 non-profit organization supported exclusively through its membership dues. Visit www.AlamoCA.org for more information and a membership application.
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 25
Unleash Your Potential
By Michelle Brown, Gumsaba Boot Camp
Though I wake at 4:30AM most days of the week, I have found myself staying up far past my bedtime to watch the 22nd Winter Olympic games. It is amazing to see all of the hard work realized and to watch the fruition of high hopes and colossal dreams. What most of us don't see are the daily struggles that paved the path to get to this level of competition. The tears, the injuries, the fears faced, and the internal battles won to become the amazing athletes we see performing in Sochi. Humans are made to handle physical challenges and adjust to change, but the convenience of life today does not require that. Though feats like the Olympics may be out of reach for many, all of us are capable of amazing things. Unfortunately, some of us disrespect our bodies, let our lazy habits rule, and then end up taking medication to mask symptoms of the sickness we could have prevented. Taking care of our body can be as simple as 30 minutes to one hour of moderate exercise most days of the week and reaching for the apple rather than the candy bar. The choice is yours. It does not take an Olympic athlete to win the daily struggles we all face. To be a champion at life, take small steps away from your comfort zone, and you will be headed in the direction of your dreams. If a 5K has been on your bucket list, sign up for one today, and do it even if you walk it. Chances are you will meet someone who has walked your path and inspires you to reach for more. If your eating habits need to change for the better, start replacing junk food with healthy whole foods today. There is no excuse for eating junk with all the great real food out there. It is a myth that junk food is cheaper or better than unprocessed foods. Whether your big dream is a 5K, a marathon, weight loss, or the yearning to do just one pull up, you can do it. It is an awesome realization when you decide that you are the one in control of your fate - not a doctor, not a habit, YOU. Like the Olympic athlete, you can realize your big dreams with conscious choices. There is no failure when your intentions and actions are positive, and the athletes at the Olympic games have proved that repeatedly. No one is perfect, but we can all move in a positively perfect direction, if we choose to. In every moment there are opportunities to improve our selves so seek them out. Make the best of a challenging situation, and soon you will naturally start to challenge yourself because it feels right! Exercise even when you feel lazy, and reach for an apple instead of a candy bar. These are simple practices that we can all implement to be winners at life. When we put an honest effort into improving ourselves, we just can't lose. It is only when we take steps away from our comfort zone and into the unknown that we can begin to unleash our human potential. There is no better day than today to become a healthier, more vibrant you. Delaying change gives more power to negative habits. Don’t sacrifice your dreams of tomorrow for poor choices today. Choose health, choose wellness, and choose consciously. You only get one shot at this life. Go for the gold! Michelle Brown is an ACE certified health and fitness specialist, Kung Fu Black Belt World Champion, blogger, public speaker and owner of Gumsaba Outdoor Fitness. Michelle has been helping clients surpass their goals since 1998. Gumsaba has been voted best in the east bay by diablo magazine readers for two years running, and offers Co-ed, Womens Only, Mens Only, and Teen programs year-round. Join Gumsaba for a FREE WEEK of Outdoor Fitness and Unleash Your Potential! Visit our website at www.gumsaba.com to get started. Use promo code BIGDREAM to redeem your free week. (925) 683-5630. Advertorial
Meals on Wheels
Seniors in your community need your support! Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services has been supporting seniors in YOUR neighborhood since 1968. Two of our programs, Meals on Wheels and Friendly Visitors, rely on the support of volunteers, and we need your help now more than ever. Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers deliver meals to local homebound seniors through regular two hour shifts once per week or as substitute drivers. Friendly Visitors volunteers provide weekly one-hour companionship visits to isolated seniors. To volunteer for either program, please call (925)937-8311.
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Page 26 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
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Ranches continued from page 14
grazed animals and began to plant crops for sale, particularly wheat. Jose Maria Amador and Roberto Livermore had planted a wheat crop in 1837, but such large crops were rare for Mexican rancheros who usually planted grains and vegetables strictly for domestic use.
Junior Monarch five-wire hay press in Alamo
One historian wrote that cattle increased four fold from 1848 to 1860. Again, the weather came into play. First came a dry year in 1860-61, then huge floods in 1861-62, and a severe drought in 1863-64. Ranchers and farmers looked to raise other crops as California’s “age of grass” became the “age of grain.” Valley ranchers grazed livestock and farmed, choosing crops which would sell successfully. They often planted crops on the valley floor and put grain and livestock on the hills. A three-year crop rotation between grain, hay, and pasture became the practice. Crops including barley, wheat, and hay were initially profitable, followed by fruit orchards, beets, grapes, and tomatoes. In the twentieth century, groves of walnut trees and pear orchards dominated the valley floor with cattle and sheep on the hills.
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Voluma is Here!
By Dr. Jerome Potozkin
Injectable fillers to reverse the signs of aging have been around for years. However, we now have a new injectable that has unique lifting properties. Juvederm Voluma XC injectable gel is the first and only filler FDA-approved to instantly add volume to the cheek area. It gives a subtle lift, which helps restore a youthful yet natural profile for up to two years. When injections are performed by a skilled injector, results can be spectacular. I have extensive experience with injectable fillers dating back to the late eighties with collagen. The game changed when Restylane became the first hyaluronic acid filler to gain FDA approval in 2003. Juvederm followed by gaining FDA approval in 2006 and has become a major player. These fillers were a major improvement over the collagen fillers that had been available up until 2003. Hyaluronic Acid (HA) is a naturally occurring substance found in your skin. Aging results in loss of HA which results in the loss of volume and structure. HA fillers, when injected by a skilled and experienced injector, create a natural more youthful appearance. The goal with fillers is to restore what you have lost and create the best version of yourself. Things can go awry when injections are performed by an unskilled injector. You can end up with a distorted appearance or even worse complications. The reason most people resist fillers is because they are fearful they will wind up looking freakish and distorted like the “trout pout” or fish lips from poor technique in injecting lips. This is typical of poorly performed injections. Most people are unaware of those that are getting great natural looking results with properly performed injections. Some would argue that the person performing the injections is more important than the substance being injected. I believe both are important. Last month I had the opportunity be one of only two physicians chosen from Contra Costa County to be invited to a Master Injector training course for Juvederm Voluma XC. We had the opportunity to work hand-in-hand with a plastic surgeon from Brazil who has extensive experience with Juvederm Voluma XC, as it has been approved for use in Brazil for years. I was amazed at the instant lift we saw with the Voluma injections. I had not seen this type of lift and fill of the cheeks with a relatively small volume. We can create a natural lifting and filling of the cheeks with Juvederm Voluma XC. I believe that Juvederm Voluma XC with its unique lifting properties and duration of up to two years will be a “game changer” in aesthetic medicine. If you are interested in looking like the best natural version of yourself call my office at 925-838-4900 to schedule a complimentary consultation. At the time of your consultation I will fully evaluate your concerns and educate you about your treatment options. We look forward to seeing you! Dr. Potozkin is a board certified dermatologist who has been serving the local community since 1993. His fully accredited dermatological and laser facility is located at 600 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Suite 102 in Danville. He is accepting new patients. Please call (925) 838-4900 or visit Potozkin.com Advertorial for more information. A book, Illustrations of Contra Costa County, published in 1879 stated: “Although the grain-growing interest predominates over all others, stock raising forms no inconsiderable part of the industries of the county. Improved breeds of cattle, horses, sheep, and swine, imported from abroad or from the Eastern States, have given the stock of this section a wide-spread reputation for years past. Many of the finest horses in the State have been bred in this county, and farmers take a great pride in the excellent quality of their stock. But the generality of farmers seem to prefer wheat-raising to all other industries. Dairying is carried on extensively.” Hay was an important product since “farms with livestock needed to put up and store a ton or so of hay for each cow or horse to be fed the next winter,” according to Don Wood. The valley provided hay for animals in San Francisco for many years, making it a reliable source of income for ranchers and farmers until the advent of cars and trucks in the early 20th century. Wood wrote, “The U.S. Cavalry posted at the Presidio, liveries and dray horses in San Francisco created a very big market for good quality hay.” After the railroad opened in 1891, the Danville station had corrals for livestock.
See Ranches continued on page 27
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Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 27
Visit our office in between now and March 17th, and your name will be entered into our th Visit our office in between now and March 17 Visit our office in between now and March 17th, and your name will be entered into our , and your name will be entered into our raffle to win a $50 Gift Card to a local Restaurant! Don’t forget to check in on Facebook raffle to win a $50 Gift Card to a local Restaurant! Don’t forget to check in on Facebook raffle to win a $50 Gift Card to a local Restaurant! Don’t forget to check in on Facebook while you are here, and receive a special St. Patrick’s Day goodie bag. while you are here, and receive a special St. Patrick’s Day goodie bag. while you are here, and receive a special St. Patrick’s Day goodie bag.
th Winner will be announced on St.on Winner will St. Visit our office in between now and March 17 , and your name will be entered into our Winner will be be announced announced onPatrick’s St. Patrick’s Patrick’s th raffle to win a $50 Gift Card to a local Restaurant! Don’t forget to check in on Facebook th Day, our page. March 17 th 2014 Day, March 2014 ouron Facebook page. 17 Day, March 17on 2014 on our Facebook Facebook page. while you are here, and receive a special St. Patrick’s Day goodie bag. Contact our office today at (925) 837‐6052 Contact our office today at (925) 837‐6052 For all of your dental needs, contact our office today at (925) 837-6052 Contact our office today at (925) 837‐6052
3176 Danville Blvd., Suite 2, Alamo 3176 Danville Blvd., Suite 2, Alamo | info@amindamodrelldds.com | www.AmindaModrellDDS.com | Facebook Aminda Modrell DDS 3176 Danville Blvd., Suite 2, Alamo
Winner will be announced on St. Patrick’s 3176 Danville Blvd., Suite 2, Alamo info@amindamodrelldds.com | info@amindamodrelldds.com | it is difficult to remove the thin membrane without damaging any of the retina tissue The Eye Opener th info@amindamodrelldds.com | underneath, which surgery is not performed until the drop in vision becomes Day,www.AmindaModrellDDS.com onis why our Facebook page. March 17 2014 www.AmindaModrellDDS.com By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry too symptomatic for the patient. The procedure is done as outpatient, and depending Macular Pucker www.AmindaModrellDDS.com on the severity of the condition, special head positioning or tilting might be required Contact our office today at (925) 837‐6052 3176 Danville Blvd., Suite 2, Alamo info@amindamodrelldds.com | www.AmindaModrellDDS.com
Since I discussed the macula and macular degeneration after the surgery to help the eye heal properly. Vision improves after surgery, but it last month, I decided to tackle another common finding generally does not completely return to pre-macular pucker level. regarding the macula. A macular pucker, or epiretinal As is usually the case, routine eye exams can help diagnose and manage a membrane, results when scar tissue forms over the macular macular pucker. If needed, we can refer to a retinal specialist if further testing area of the retina. This condition usually does not progress or surgery is required. to the point where surgical intervention is necessary, but I Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding have had several patients recently who required surgery. service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at 820-6622 An epiretinal membrane usually develops secondary to trauma/surgery to the eye, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165 in Alamo. Visit our but more commonly it occurs by posterior vitreous detachment. A posterior vitreous newly updated website at www.alamooptometry.com and like us on our detachment, or PVD, occurs when the viscous gel that is in the back portion of the Alamo Optometry Facebook page. Advertorial eye pulls away from the retina and causes a sudden onset of floaters. This sudden onset of floaters is the usual cause of patients calling the office to schedule an office Ranches continued from pageEXAM 26 DENTAL DENTAL EXAM visit. A PVD is quite common and is completely benign; however, if this does occur, According to the Contra Costa Gazette July 16, 1892: a dilated examination needs to be done to rule out any retinal tears or detachments. “One carload of beef cattle and veal calves was shipped from Danville stock entire month of March! As the gel contracts away from the macula, it can leave a layer of scar tissue on theThe corrals yesterday, and an occasional carload of hay is shipped direct to some conThe entire month of March! surface of the retina. This membrane that is left is similar to cellophane, and over sumer, but very little will be thrown on the market this season. A few would-be time it can crinkle and tug on the macula, causing it to bulge. The main complaint of buyers of hay have been around but cannot pay satisfactory prices at present.” a macular pucker from patients is decreased or distorted vision. Some may notice Don Wood wrote that “Barbed wire became generally available in the early that images are cloudy or filmy because they are looking through this cellophane-like 1880s,” displacing the split redwood posts “except for corral fencing, as the prichild is required to have Make membrane. In a percentageYour of cases, the epiretinal membrane notaacontract, and mary fence materials.” Your child is required todoes have Makeyour your Cattle raising was a primary part of valley agriculture for some ranchers during the patients’ vision is not affected much. A macular pucker is diagnosed through a dental screening to enter Appointment th dental screening to enter Appointment dilated exam and does not require a specialist referral until vision decreases. If needed, the 20 century. Frank Macedo Sr. and Jr. owned and leased land at Mt. Diablo’s another test called Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) can take highly sensitive foothills with their headquarters in Alamo. The Blackhawk Ranch grew to 6,500 images of the macula to ascertain the exact amount of macular bulging and if there acres and grazed at least 1,000 cattle. Wood Ranch raised both cattle and sheep. Dougherty Valley’s 10,000 acres were primarily cattle country with some hay and is a macular hole. However, monitoring is all that is required for most patients. eventually raised cattle on owned and leased land patients who experience in vision, YourIn those child is required toa drop have a surgery is required. When vi- grains. And the Wiedemanns Make your sion becomes compromised, the forces of the membrane on the macula cause severe of 8,000 acres. dental to hole enter Be sure to visit the exhibit at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Appointment bulging of thescreening tissue, or a macular develops. A macular hole occurs when the membrane contracts so much that part of the macula is not fully attached to the retina. Railroad Ave. in Danville and see “Cowboys and Cattlemen, Ranching in the If surgery is needed, the retinal surgeon will remove the vitreous gel in the posterior San Ramon Valley.” Ranchers talk with visitors each Saturday. For more inforportion of the eye and will also remove the membrane. This surgery is very delicate as mation, see museumsrv.org.
DENTAL EXAM
The entire month of March!
DENTAL EXAM
The entire month of March!
Page 28 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Your Personal Nutritionist
IntroducingYour Personal Weight LossApp: Me By Linda Michaelis RD,MS
Wherever you turn these days there seems to be an app to help you lose weight. New clients often tell me they have been using these apps to track their food and calorie intake and are not finding success. They say they were getting interesting information but still could not get motivated to follow the prescribed food plan. I tell my clients that I am their best app and can help them achieve their weight loss goals with consistency. Here are a few of the ways my “app” helps them out.
Get Organized
I have been in private practice for 25 years, and I know the syndrome - we do well the first few weeks but then fall off the wagon. Either our workload increases, we get sick, or family matters prevent us from going to the gym. Quickly, the weight comes back on, and we get frustrated. My job is to help prevent this relapse and show you how to move ahead, even if your weight stays the same for a week. You need to first make sure your cupboards and refrigerator are organized to meet your goals. There must be foods available for healthy dinners and snacks. I recommend having on hand sufficient protein items such as precooked chicken or shrimp, sliced meats such as turkey, roast beef, or ham, hardboiled eggs, tuna salad, cottage cheese, and Greek yogurt, which are all available at our wonderful grocery stores. Have sweet potatoes, precooked brown rice, and kidney, garbanzo, or black beans kept in the refrigerator for salads, or quickcook quinoa, whole wheat couscous, or whole pasta that can be cooked up instantly for tasty meals. For veggies, keep in the freezer steam-in-the-bag broccoli, string beans, or petite brussel sprouts which taste great. Of course I recommend buying fresh veggies, but people tell me during the busy times they do not get cooked. I’d say in that case steam them the day you buy them, and snack on them with salsa or dressing dips.
Meals that Keep You Happy and Full
Losing weight does not mean that meals should be tasteless and boring. When new clients come in and I look at their food diary, I often say, “No wonder you have not been successful. These meals look like you are on a diet, and you cannot eat this way forever.” I always find that people need to have a better understanding of how to balance meals with protein, fiber, whole grains, and fat to provide a fullness that
Schoolhouse continued from front page
October harvest season, the children picked walnuts after school and helped with the huller at night. Planted by the first students, walnut trees on the Schoolhouse grounds helped balance the budget in the 1940s. Walnuts picked by pupils were sold in a Pleasanton store owned by the teacher’s husband. In 1889 married women were not permitted to teach, and participation in women’s suffrage activities was cause for dismissal. Regulations had changed by the time Mrs. Gertrude Arendt taught the last full-time class. Janet Reinstein Rego, another of the final 16, remembers the teacher serving hot soup once a week using a hot plate in the teacher’s room. Her sister Laura adds that the shelves in the school library were hard to reach. Books were used in the classroom, not taken home to read. There was a piano the teacher played, opening each day after the Pledge of Allegiance with the song “God Bless America.” In a prank that could have had disastrous consequences, boys in the class put tacks on the piano bench. Fortunately, Mrs. Arendt had adequate padding in her garments, which shed the sharp objects as she stood. Betty Matto Casey recollects that Mrs. Arendt usually knew who was responsible for any mischief. Ramsey adds that when the culprit was caught, a circle was drawn on the blackboard, and the offender stood with nose pressed to the center for a specific number of minutes determined by the nature of the misdemeanor. Lunch involved a cultural sharing. Portuguese sausage and sweet bread were gleefully traded for Danish butter and cheese. Ramsey recalls that some Portuguese families cooked eggs in coffee. Imagine the novelty those blackened eggs presented! In 1970, a neighborhood organization rescued the abandoned Schoolhouse from impending ruin and raised funds for restoration. Subsequently the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District (SRVFPD) acquired and maintained the property, which was used for picnics, voting, 4-H and fire board meetings, and social events. In October 2012, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley (MusSRV) assumed ownership and management of the Schoolhouse. Joan Kurtz heard about the Schoolhouse from a friend living on Finley Road. Coming from a long line of educators, Kurtz was inspired to develop a living history
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will last for hours. This knowledge cannot be learned through apps. I strive to make sure my clients are enjoying food and not feeling like they are on a diet. If you are a dessert person, I can help you set up days which include two desserts that make you happy - one after lunch and one after dinner, but not in between meals. If my clients like salty snacks, then I make sure that they have the “crunch” at lunch, such as by having a serving of chips along with tuna salad made with lite mayo, celery, relish, and onions along with some cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, and even a tomato soup.
Dining Out in Restaurants and Social Eating
One of the things I love to do is work with clients to plan out what to eat at restaurants or party meals. We look at the restaurant websites together and come up with an appetizer or two and/or an entree they would enjoy. Clients have told me that they walk into the restaurant and do not even look at the menu and just order what we had decided. Social eating requires lots of skill, and I take time role playing with my clients on how to handle the events.
How to Read Food Labels
In my first meeting with a client I make sure that they know how to read the food labels accurately. As I have written in past articles the food label is upside down and very misleading. They use grams instead of ounces, and I see many people that are confused and thus have purchased items that they thought were good food choices and weren’t.
Handling Emotions and Food
As I tell my clients, we all have slip-ups and wind up feeling guilty. That can start a vicious cycle of overeating and just plain feeling worse. I am a non-judgmental coach who has seen this scenario many times, and I teach my client to learn from their mishaps and actually become better for it. Often I will say to a client that I have been working with for awhile, “Remember you overate when there were struggles with the kids, but now you reach for a cup of tea and try to calm yourself and go take a hot shower and hop into bed.” Please feel free to contact me if you are struggling with weight loss and need the support, education, and motivation to keep you on track and finally reach your goal. I am glad to inform you that insurance can cover nutritional counseling. Please refer to my website www.LindaRD.com for a listing as well past articles and services. Email me at lifeweight1@yahoo.com or call (925) 855-0150 and tell me about your nutrition concerns. Advertorial curriculum. She and her husband Don visited oneroom schools in Dallas and Delaware. Joan also found a Modesto model to study. Supported by MusSRV, she gained SRVFPD approval to run a pilot program in 1995. At first only a few classes came. Now every third grader in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District (as well as some lucky students from other area pub- Don and Joan Kurtz are ready to take third graders on a time-travel lic and private adventure at the Schoolhouse. schools) gets to travel back in time in a program so popular one student enthused: “Next to Disneyland, this was the favorite day in my life!” As a docent teacher, Casey remains in 1888 character until delighting classes at the end of the day by announcing, “I call it my school because I went to school here.” A third grader in 1946, Betty recalls that when the school well ran dry, boys would be dispatched across the way to fetch buckets from Mrs.
See Schoolhouse continued on page 29
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Doctor, Is It Safe for Me to Fly? By Barbara Persons, MD, Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc.
Medical tourism is a term which denotes travel across international borders for the express purpose of receiving medical care. While travel for healthcare has been around for quite some time, recent trends show that more people are traveling to countries with emerging economies to avoid treatment delays, to avoid prohibitive costs for life-saving procedures, or simply, to avoid high costs of elective surgery. At first glance, the imagery of resting on a beach after surgery seems enticing. It might even be appropriate if there weren’t potentially serious or life threatening complications to consider. While the price tag of a procedure may be appealing, the increasing push for international medical care has nothing to do with improved quality, greater safety, or better outcomes. In fact, surgery outside the United States, especially when sold as a vacation package, often involves significant, and numerous, risks. Although there are qualified physicians practicing all over world, it is very difficult to assess the training and credentials of surgery centers and surgeons outside of the U.S. Notably, almost one third of companies engaged in promoting medical travel receive referral fees from the overseas providers whose business depends on recruiting patients. Cosmetic surgery trips are often marketed as a vacation, and post-operative patients may be encouraged to engage in activities that could compromise their healing process and increase exposure to endemic diseases not found in the U.S. All surgeries involve risk. Infections are the most common complications seen in patients that go abroad for cosmetic surgery. Air travel combined with surgery is extremely hazardous. Individually, long flights or surgery increase the risk of blood clots and subsequent pulmonary embolism.
Schoolhouse continued from page 28
Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 29 Together, the risk of developing these potentially fatal complications is exponentially higher. Before flying, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons suggests waiting five to seven days after body procedures such as liposuction and breast augmentation, and seven to 10 days after cosmetic procedures of the face including facelifts, eyelid surgery, nose jobs, and laser treatments. In my practice, I have seen numerous patients returning from international “surgery vacations” with unsightly scars, hematomas, infections, and other horrific injuries (including loss of lips and other facial features). I am faced with the challenge of managing postoperative complications without knowing what surgical techniques the initial physician applied. If you are thinking of travelling for surgery, I urge you to consider the potential complications and general risk to your health. Cosmetic surgery is real surgery, and for it to be safe, it requires administration of anesthesia, sterile technique, and modern instrumentation, not to mention properly trained and certified surgeons. There are no U.S. laws that protect patients or oversee the certification of physicians or other personnel who perform plastic surgery abroad. If surgical negligence occurs, there may be no legal recourse. Devices and products used may not meet U.S. standards, medical record keeping may be nonexistent, and language barriers can become an unwanted adversity at a time when communication is paramount. When you are considering any surgical change to your body, please do your homework! Research the procedure, the benefits, and the risks. Refer to www.plasticsurgery.org for the latest information on plastic surgery procedures. Most importantly, like with any medical care, chose and consult with a plastic surgeon that will remain accessible to you and is there to provide thorough follow-up care that is a must with any surgical procedure. 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
Perreira’s property. Competition to be chosen for the task was fierce because Mrs. P. always provided fresh baked cookies. What surprises today’s students most is the Heartfelt & number of chores children had to do before Supportive and after school. Many modern pupils mention writing with feather pen and ink as a favorite acAt All Times... tivity. Nineteenth century courtesy also makes a lasting impression. “I learned that when the www.excellentcareathome.com teacher in 1888 called on the student, if the student was a girl she had to stand, curtsy, say the teacher’s name, and then say the answer, and if it was a boy he had to stand, bow, say the teacher’s name, and say the answer.” Kurtz reports, “Letters from the children are priceless. They keep you going!” Although the Schoolhouse was built in 1889, the program reflects the 1888 date Kurtz was originally given. The day begins with pledging allegiance to the 38-star flag. Contemporary current events discussed include George Eastman invents a camera, the Washington Monument opens for the first time and our President announces the White House will be electrified next year (1889). Lessons students learn go far beyond ciphering and recitation from the McGuffey Reader. Kurtz comments, “One of my favorite parts is sharing the five ways to have a happy life: Truthfulness, Honesty, Punctuality, Cleanliness, and Kindness. The children repeat them again before going home.” Recess creates an opportunity to try old-fashioned toys and games: jump rope, hop scotch, hoop rolling, jacks, marbles, can stilts, graces, and races! Third grade girls dress for their time-travel adventure in bonnets and aprons, while boys don suspenders, jeans, and straw hats. Part of the teacher’s job included arriving early to get the stove started. Today a team of volunteer superintendents take care of opening and closing the Schoolhouse and directing traffic. In 2013, 25-30 docents and docent assistants took 2,700 third graders back through an 1888 school day. For information about volunteering or visiting the Schoolhouse, click on “school programs” on the MusSRV website www.museumsrv.org.
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Page 30 - March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
Prostate Gland can Grow Over Time By Parminder Sethi, MD
One of the most common urological conditions is an enlarged prostate gland. Prostate enlargement happens to almost all men as they get older. As the gland grows, it can press on the urethra and cause urination problems such as a weak stream, difficulty urinating, or a sensation of frequent need to urinate. An enlarged prostate is often called benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH). It is not cancer, and it does not raise your risk for prostate cancer. Various treatments include medical and surgical therapies. Lifestyle changes for mild BPH symptoms can provide some relief. Self care techniques include: • Urinate when you first get the urge. Also, go to the bathroom when you have the chance, even if you don't feel a need to urinate. • Avoid alcohol and caffeine, especially after dinner. • Don’t drink a lot of fluid all at once. Spread out fluids during the day. Avoid drinking fluids within two hours of bedtime. • Avoid over-the-counter cold and sinus medicines that contain decongestants or antihistamines. These drugs can increase BPH symptoms. • Keep warm and exercise regularly. Cold weather and lack of physical activity may worsen symptoms. • Learn and perform Kegel exercises (pelvic strengthening exercises). • Reduce stress. Nervousness and tension can lead to more frequent urination. Men are typically started on medications and given a chance to see if the medications can improve their symptoms. Some men notice considerable improvement in symptoms with medication, while others do not. In general, most men tolerate the medications well, although some men prefer a minimally invasive procedure to relieve symptoms. In other instances, surgery is unavoidable. Minimally invasive heat therapies are performed in the doctor’s office. Thermotherapy delivers targeted heat within the prostate with either radiofrequency or microwave therapy to reduce excess prostatic tissue. These procedures require only local anesthesia in an office setting. The patient is able to return home shortly after the procedure has been performed and can resume normal activities within a few days. These therapies are ideal for patients who fail medications or do not want to take daily medications for the rest of their lives or do not want the risks of surgery. Technological advancements have made the surgical treatment of BPH less invasive, simpler, and safer for the patient. Two relatively recent advancements have been the use of lasers to perform vaporization of the prostate and the use of bipolar energy. Patients can typically go home the day of or day after surgery, and recovery is very fast. The treatment you choose will be based on how bad your symptoms are and how much they bother you. Your doctor will also take into account other medical problems you may have. If you have BPH, you should have a yearly exam to monitor your symptoms and to discuss changes in treatment. Dr. Sethi will be presenting a comprehensive overview of treatment options for enlarged prostate (BPH) on March 27, 6-7:30pm at the Civic Park Community Center in Walnut Creek. To register, call 877-585-0128. Dr. Sethi is a Board Certified Urologist with Pacific Urology. He specializes in minimally-invasive BPH treatments, incontinence, bladder dysfunction and surgery. Dr. Sethi was instrumental in developing Pacific Urology’s Continence Center for men and women. For more information Advertorial call 925-609-7220 or visit www.PacificUrology.com.
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Cancer Health Benefits of Fermented Wheat Germ By Jewel Johl, MD
A form of wheat germ called fermented wheat germ is a mixture of natural compounds created from an extract made from the fermentation of wheat germ using baker’s yeast to concentrate certain naturally active compounds called benzoquinones. It was first invented in the early 1990s in Hungary, and it is now available as a dietary supplement in the U.S. A study in the British Journal of Cancer published in July 2003, conducted in patients with colon cancer who had undergone various treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, concluded that fermented wheat germ extract, in combination with surgery plus radio/chemotherapy, may inhibit progression of cancer, including the formation of new metastases, and may prolong the survival of colorectal cancer patients. It is important to note that there were no serious side effects from this supplement, other than its unpleasant taste. Besides the benefit of this extract in patients suffering from colon cancer, it has shown promising activity in terms of reducing disease progression in patients with melanoma with stage III disease, a deadly form of skin cancer. In addition to having direct anti-cancer properties, this extract also improves quality of life and alleviates fatigue in patients with advanced lung cancer and head and neck cancer. Fermented wheat germ extract also regulates the body’s immune system to not only fight cancer cells, but also to decrease inflammation and pain in patients suffering from various autoimmune conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and lupus. A study published in the journal Clinical Experiments in Rheumatology in 2006 demonstrated that morning stiffness was reduced when patients used the fermented wheat germ, and half of the patients were able to significantly reduce their use of steroids. Reducing the reliance on steroids allowed patients to have fewer side effects associated with these drugs such as digestive problems, skin thinning, hypertension, increased blood glucose, increased cancer risk, and weight gain. Please consult your doctor to see if this product is right for you. Dr. Johl is a Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Diablo Valley Oncology. He will be speaking at the Many Faces of Colon Cancer on March 26, 2014 at the Cancer Support Community in Walnut Creek. For more information about this educational event please visit www.dvohmg. com or call 925-677-5041. Advertorial
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that can make a huge difference to a child’s sense of self. Children who are loved and valued have a higher level of self esteem which is critical to success in life.” Libby Gruender of Sunnyvale founded Cake4Kids in September 2010. Her goal was simple - to provide a service that brought smiles and hope to at-risk youth. In 2013 300 volunteer home bakers baked and delivered 1,000 cakes to South Bay youth. And now, Cake4Kids has expanded beyond the Peninsula to include active organizers and volunteer bakers in the East and North Bay areas. One such volunteer baker is Janinne Franke of Danville who admits that she “needs” to bake in order to relax. It was when her husband and kids reached their baked goods saturation point that she signed-on with Cake4Kids. “I needed an outlet for my passion, and there is only so much you can bake for the local firefighters and police,” says Franke. As part of the operations team, Franke conducts orientations for East Bay bakers. Though an expert herself (trained by her grandmother whose baking skills were intuitive), Franke maintains that baking is not difficult, and that decorating is the most fun. “It is amazing what one can do with a couple of marshmallows, M&Ms, and fondant icing,” she says. Baking expertise is definitely not a prerequisite for interested bakers, as Cake4Kids provides basic, foolproof cake recipes as well as decorating classes. Driver’s license and insurance information is required from volunteers, as is mandatory attendance at one of the orientation sessions where the “dos and don’ts” are covered. Cake bakers cover their own costs and are some-
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times requested to follow a décor theme such as Thomas the Tank Engine, Princess, or simply ‘chocolate.’ “The most important aspect of a Cake4Kids cake is not that it be expertly decorated, but that the child’s name be spelled accurately and legibly, and that the cake be made with love,” says Eades. Cake4Kids’ operations director Trish O’Dwyer is in charge of all operational elements of Cake4Kids and leads a passionate team of volunteers who keep the ship running smoothly. She is also responsible for recruiting and vetting the agencies, group homes, and shelters whose patrons become recipients of birthday cakes. The process is formal and includes verification of non-profit status as well as disclosure of financials. The volunteer bakers deliver their cakes directly to the agency, and they remain anonymous to their beneficiary. Often, the cake will be presented to the child by the child’s caseworker, helping to create a beneficial bond between the two. “We try to
C L A S S I F I E D HEALTH
NEW ARTHRITIS FOUNDATION TAI CHI CLASSES starting, call Linda Summers Pirkle at 925-820-8101 for meeting times. WOMEN’S SPIRIT RECOVERY GROUP: For women in transition and/or recovering from addictions, trauma, and/or grief, provides safety and support for healing and spiritual growth. Group structure meets the needs and concerns of members including specific topic focus and experiential process. New groups starting March – April. Contact Lynn Goodman, MFT, SD, CAS (925)385-7060 or gracewks@att.net.
VARMINT CONTROL
GOPHER AND MOLE REMOVAL : NUISANCE WILDLIFE CONTROL Trapping No poison, safe for your family, pets and the ecosystem. I’m a licensed and insured state trapper; resolving human and animal conflicts. Habitat modification, ( to make your home or property less desirable), exclusion barriers, (fencing, wire mesh or sheet metal to keep the animal/s out of your home or property), and trapping, (removing problem wild animals.) For more information visit www.trivalleytrapper.com. Call TRI VALLEY TRAPPER for a FREE phone consultation and estimate (925)765-4209.
Alamo Today ~ March 2014 - Page 31
help reinforce with the children that their caseworkers care for them and are looking out for them,” says O’Dwyer. “The small and kind act of baking a cake for a stranger carries great impact for both the giver and receiver,” says O’Dwyer. “The delight in recipients’ faces when they receive their large pink or white cake box is so rewarding, and our volunteers love hearing how their efforts make a difference.” “Making a child smile and filling them with the joy of having a cake specially made for them with their name on it is a basic family gesture that I am honored to perform for a child outside of my family circle,” says Franke. Cake4Kids is actively seeking East Bay bakers and encourages interested parties to fill out an online application. Example photos of cakes can be found on the Cake4Kids Facebook page. For more information, visit www. cake4kids.org. If you represent a non-profit agency and would like to be considered for client cake deliveries, please send an email to info@cake4kids.org.
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Page 32 -March 2014 ~ Alamo Today
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Danville Area Real Estate: Great Start in 2014
Although the early season in real estate is not a great predictor for the entire year, I thought I would look at the first two months of 2014 and see if there is anything useful to be gained by an analysis of this same time period last year. I’ve used red and green in the chart at right to indicate the direction of change, green for the positive and red for the negative. Days-on-market must be interpreted in the opposite as a negative change in days-on-market means market time is decreasing which is a good thing. The vast majority of indicators on the chart are green which portends well for another really good year for Danville Area Real Estate. An exception is in Alamo where the number of homes sold declined a bit, the prices are off a tad, and dollars paid per square foot declined for the first time in a long while. Is this reason for concern? It’s probably not. It’s just a small hint market prices in Alamo are unlikely to continue growing as fast as we have seen them rise during the past three years. A significant issue in Alamo is lack of inventory of homes for sale. At this time only 44 homes are active listings and this is less than half of normal. Given there are fewer homes, and an insatiable demand for really nice homes, I look for great homes to continue to be “bid-up” in spite of the data presented here. This scenario does have the potential to move the price needle much higher by year’s end. That would be unexpected, but still possible, and most delightful, since I live in Alamo. Blackhawk which has been lagging the rest of the market has taken a giant leap forward in the first two months of the year compared with last year. The average sold price for a home moved from $1,037,625 up to an amazing. $1,678,800 for a 62% increase in sold price. The size of homes sold increased by only 32%, so we are forced to acknowledge that nearly half the gain is real price appreciation. There are only 22 homes for sale in Blackhawk at this time which is not very many. Last month I mentioned Danville was fast approaching Alamo on the basis of price paid per square foot with the possibility of overtaking Alamo. With Danville sitting at $396 per square foot and Alamo at $386 per square foot, we can see that this has actually come to pass at least
All Home Sales Alamo, Blackhawk Danville, Diablo (Jan1-Feb 21) momentariSold DOM List Price Sold Price Sq. Foot $ Sq. Foot ly. It will be Alamo 2013 18 30 $ 1,384,102 $ 1,359,968 3,434 $ 396 interesting 2014 13 62 $ 1,336,461 $ 1,311,384 3,397 $ 386 8 34 $ 1,046,125 $ 1,037,625 3,069 $ 338 to see how Blackhawk 2013 2014 10 47 $ 1,725,590 $ 1,678,800 4,045 $ 415 these two ar- Danville 2013 68 38 $ 787,246 $ 782,047 2,377 $ 329 eas compare 2014 60 39 $ 880,462 $ 880,908 2,213 $ 398 Diablo 2013 3 142 $ 1,987,666 $ 1,877,083 3,623 $ 518 at the end of 2014 16 84 $ 2,164,624 $ 2,021,402 3,835 $ 527 the year. Diablo continues to gain momentum. Sixteen homes sold by this time in 2014 compared to three homes this time in 2013. Purchase price advanced from $1,877,083 to $2,021,402 up about 8% over last year. Dollars paid per square foot advanced nicely as well. Eight homes are currently for sale in Diablo and the lowest priced listing stands at just under $3.3 million. This is one third more than the average price paid in Diablo so far this year. What happens moving forward will be interesting indeed. I think the most notable information for the Danville Area Market contained here is the activity in Diablo and Blackhawk demonstrating an accelerating recovery for high-end luxury homes. A healthy Luxury Home Market is vital to the completion of a total market recovery in our area as it is a strong signal that buyers and banks believe real estate to be a sound investment. I would like to think as confidence grows, we can expect to see high-end home sale numbers increase. Nancy and I have more than 500 email subscribers who receive this article in advance of publication. Just send me an email and we can add you to the list. I assure you no spam will follow. It’s important to remember there really is no “average” home and no two homes are exactly alike. If you would like an honest no-strings-attached opinion of your home’s current market value and suggestions for getting it ready for market, please give me a call 925-989-6086 or send me an email joecombs@thecombsteam.com.
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Data presented in this column is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Contra Costa and Alameda MLS service and other quoted sources. Joe Combs, Nancy Combs, The Combs Team, J. Rockcliff and the MLS service do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. DRE #0144125.
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