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December 2020 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 1
&
COMMUNITY OUTREACH PROGRA DECEMBER 2020
WALNUT CREEK WATERSHED COUNCIL: RESTORING HABITAT AND REVIVING THE MAGIC By Jody Morgan
The Walnut Creek Watershed, Contra Costa County’s most extensive, encompasses 309 miles of creek channels stretching south to north from San Ramon to Martinez and west to east from Moraga/Orinda to Concord. In 2011, concerned individuals, understanding nature does not recognize man-made boundaries, initiated discussions leading to the formation in 2012 of the Walnut Creek Watershed Council (WCWC). The collaborative forum engages area towns and cities, non-profit interest groups, and government agencies in sharing their concerns, exper- Red-Shouldered Hawk finds fresh supply of native crayfish in Grayson Creek thanks to habitat restoration. Photo by Susana de Trapaga. tise, and access to grant funding to restore and maintain riparian habitats along the creeks while sustaining the health of the waterways. In 2018, the Arundo Removal and Restoration Team (ARRT) was launched to confront a major threat to the vitality of the entire watershed. Additional initiatives include generating public awareness of the value of the creeks as community assets and their importance to native wildlife as well as freeing the creek sides from trash. WCWC is a v o lu nt a r y non-profit, n on - re g u l a tor y stakeholder group supported by FSRC volunteers labored weekly to remove Arundo along San Ramon nine municCreek despite COVID-19 issues. Photo by Mike Anciaux. ipalities, 12+ non-profit groups, and six government agencies, all sharing their common mission: “to support community efforts, scientific studies, public education, and restoration projects that protect and enhance beneficial uses and resources in the entire watershed. The Council encourages sharing information and promotes collaboration among stakeholders.” Representatives of
See Watershed continued on page 22
Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA
ECRWSS
Together We Give
TOGETHER WE GIVE
COMMUNITY OUTREACH CARE PACKAGE PROJECT
The Alamo Women’s Club has been sponsoring a series of donation events through their “Together We Give” program to help those in need. On Wednesday, December 9th, from 2-5pm, please bring items to the Clubhouse, located at 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo, for curbside drop off. Donated items will be given to Blue Star Moms of Danville, Chapter 101. Blue Star Moms of Danville, Chapte Items needed need to be individually group is CAREwrapped/packaged. PACKAGEThe PROJECT looking for donations of black or white men’s crew length socks (no tube or dress socks please), bags of cookies, crackers, corn nuts, dried fruit/fruit leather, protein bars,Wednesday, pouches of tuna, chicken, Nutella to go, 9, jerky2020, (not December 2 pork), deodorant, floss, baby wipes, drink powder (i.e., Crystal Light), batteries (4 or 6-pack), and small puzzle books. Gift cards for Amazon, Drop-Off Alamo Women’s Walmart, or Curbside Target, or checks (payable toat AWC with memo “Blue StarClub 1401 Danville Blvd., Moms”) are also appreciated. A picture-list of Costco items neededAlamo can be found at http://tiny.cc/ket1tz. Your generous donations WILL make a difference! Everything you give is Shopping List: a morale booster for the soldier who receives it.
All items individually wrapped/packaged,
Socks (Black or white, men’s sizes, crew length, not t
OLD OAK TREES Bags of cookies, crackers, corn nuts, dried fruit/fru LIT FOR ProteinTHE bars (i.e., Clif), Pouches of Tuna, Chicken, Nutella to Deodorant, Floss, Baby Wipes, HOLIDAYS
Water drinks (i.e., Crystal Light), Batteries, (4 or 6-pack), S Gift cards welcome! Or, make checks payable to AWC with memo: Blue Link for Costco Shoppers:
https://78c0cf65-a78d-4893-99ec-a9f9c079f8df.filesusr.com/ugd/67f352_e137671b871
In another departure from years past, the
Please know that everything youof give a morale booster fo annual lighting old oakistrees in Danville and has gone virtual. receives it, as well as Alamo a practicality. Videos to commemorate the events, which took place November 25th in Danville, and November 29th in Alamo can be found online. Listen to holiday music, and enjoy memories of past events. For Alamo videos, visit www.alamorotary.org or their Facebook page “RotaryClubofAlamo.” Danville’s ceremony can be viewed at www.danville.ca.gov/LOOT or the @ DanvilleAreaChamber Facebook page. The trees will stay lit through December.
The Editors Serving the communities of Alamo, Diablo, and Danville
Volume XX Number 12
3000F Danville Blvd. #117 Alamo, CA 94507 Telephone (925) 405-6397 Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher Editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News Instagram:@AlamoandDanvilleToday
Volume XI Number 12
The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do not necessarily reflect that of The Editors. The Editors is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.
PAGE 2 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
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What’s Your Home Worth?
Visit www.assessmyequity.com to find out for FREE! Jon Ahern, Real Estate Broker 925.838.9999 | jon@ahernregroup.com
Camille Ahern, CLHMS, Real Estate Professional
DRE# 01169357
Active
1905 Nicolette Ct., Martinez
3 BED | 2 BATH | 1,332 SQ FT Opportunity knocks to purchase one of the largest lots in La Salle Heights! Situated on a court location sits a charming ranch style home on a flat .73± acre lot. Offered at $799,000
Fabulous New Price
Sold - Represented Buyer
Sold - Represented Buyer
1225 Monticello Rd., Lafayette
Gentle Creek Pl., Danville
Rolling Green Cir., Pleasant Hill
Offered at $2,695,000
Sold Price $2,900,000
Sold Price $623,000
5 BED | 3.5 BATH | 4,200+ SQ FT Spectacular Happy Valley Glen home on over an acre surrounded by breath-taking views!
4 BED | 3 FULL/2.5 HALF BATH | 4,182 SQ FT Extensively remodeled Westside Danville Luxury property.
2 BED | 2 BATH | 2,100 SQ FT Beautiful single family home completely detached in a desirable neighborhood.
925.963.0068 | camille@ahernregroup.com DRE# 01865464
Active
2378 Heritage Oaks Dr., Alamo
5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 5,796 SQ FT New construction by Fautt homes and designed by Talon Design group. 5± acres of secluded grounds with sweeping panoramic views. Offered at $4,995,000
Coming Soon
2054 Hermine Ave., Walnut Creek
5 BED | 4.5 BATH | 4,458 SQ FT Luxury New Construction Napa Farm House single level on a large secluded lot in one of South Walnut Creek’s best locations. Offered at $2,795,000
Coldwell Banker is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.
BOULEVARD VIEW By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
Recently, a holiday “wish book” came in the mail. I thumbed through it and was instantly brought back to the days when our family would receive the iconic Sears Wish Book each Christmas season. The Wish Book would arrive, and my sisters and I would flip through the pages, circling things that we’d like and which we hoped would arrive on Christmas morning. Looking at some of the nostalgic items in the current book, I fondly recall the hours upon hours my sisters and I played with our toys, which are now considered “classics.” Our simple blue, red, yellow, green, black, and white Lego bricks allowed for our creativity to come out. The basic square and rectangle shapes could become houses, cars, space ships, and more. There were no instructions to follow or be copied. It was our own minds that transformed them into something new. We could learn tricks such as “walk the dog,” and “shoot the moon” with our Duncan yo-yos, Snowmen made from Ivory Snow detergent. and our Hot Wheels set was elaborate. It is the one thing I regret passing on as they don’t make them like they used to! This year, the December holidays and celebrations are looking a little different. We are fortunate to live in a time where we can stay connected via phones and the internet with Zoom and Facetime. Technology can help bridge the gap of being together in person, but it will never replace the in-person feel! However, the holidays can still be joyous, even as we are forced to find new ways to cope. Developing new routines, creating new memories, and treating ourselves to comfort foods and other items helps this time have some form of normalcy. While many use the slogan that the year 2020 has been a “dumpster fire,” it has definitely given us a time to slow down, reevaluate, and look for opportunities to do things differently. We may even find some new traditions can be better than old ones. As I pull out our holiday bins of decorations, the ones I cherish the most ones are the ones our family has made over the years. They are silly, imperfect, and sometimes tattered, and that’s what makes them great. There are the Ivory Snow Detergent snowmen (do a web search for the recipe), paper Polish Star ornaments created from yellow lined paper, proof copies of this newspaper, and scrapbooking paper (YouTube has tutorials), as well as folded paper snowflakes. Another favorite are paper chains in the shape of gingerbread men, holiday trees, snowmen, elves, bells... Many templates are available on the internet, and paper grocery Paper polish star. bags, which we most likely all have a plethora of, serve as a great canvas for these. Use this season to revive a vintage craft. Make a garland by stringing popcorn and cranberries, grab some felt and learn how to hand-sew a small ornament, and make some pomander balls by piercing oranges with whole cloves (find simple instructions on the Old Farmer’s Almanac site at www.almanac.com/content/how-make-pomander-balls). Buy a package of pipecleaners and one of popsicle sticks, and find endless ideas for ornaments and decorations on Pinterest. In this joyous but difficult time, I reflect that I am lucky to have choices. I can see the “cup” as half full, instead of half empty. I can spread kindness, and embrace optimism. I can be grateful for our beautiful surroundings and our communities. I am thankful to my advertisers who continue to support the paper each month, and I am grateful to you for your readership. I wish you and those around you a wonderful December, and I look forward to ringing in the year 2021!
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December 2020 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 3
MEALS ON WHEELS
FRIENDLY HELPER PROGRAM
Meals on Wheels (MOW) Diablo Region is launching the “Friendly Helper Program (FHP)” to assist seniors with their everyday errands, such as grocery shopping and picking up medications at a local pharmacy. This pilot program will make it easier for seniors to remain at home, especially during Covid-19. “With most of our seniors sheltering-in-place, MOW Diablo Region can now provide another essential service that our seniors truly need,” said MOW Diablo Region Health and Wellness Division Manager, Cynthia Black. The guidelines below determine if a senior is eligible for the Friendly Helpers Program: • Seniors must be a participant in the existing Friendly Visitors or Friendly Callers program. If this new program is successful, it is hoped to be able to expand this pilot beyond existing clients. • Seniors must provide at least a four-day notice before the errand is to be completed. • Weekend errands may be available with a seven-day notice. • If the volunteer pays for any item on behalf of the senior, the volunteer must be reimbursed at the time the item is delivered (cash or checks only). • There is a $50 limit on all purchases. • MOW Diablo Region requires all seniors and volunteers to adhere to the Contra Costa County Department of Health guidelines pertaining to COVID. For more information on the Friendly Helper Program, contact Eileen Stephens, estephens@mowdr.org, 925-482-2622; or Tuyet Iaconis, tiaco-nis@ mowdr.org, 925-891-4872.
WHITE PONY EXPRESS
“CIRCLE OF GIVING PLAYBOOK” ~ A FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN
December 19th, 2020 The 230 veterans buried in the Alamo Cemetery will be honored and remembered December 19th, from 10am to noon. Wreath-laying begins at 10am and lasts until all wreaths are placed and Taps is played. Admittance will be staggered to follow Covid guidelines. The event is sponsored by the San Ramon Valley Republican Women’s Club. The Cemetery is located at 130 El Portal in Danville. Please park at the Methodist Church located at 902 Danville Blvd., Alamo. All contributions fund wreath purchase. Mail checks made out to WAA, to WAA c/o SRVRWF, PO Box 1, Danville, CA 94526. Any amount is welcome.
Join White Pony Express (WPE) as they share their seven-chapter “Playbook” and collectively raise $500,000 so that everyone can share in life’s abundance. The effects of the pandemic have particularly affected seniors, the unhoused, students, and isolated neighbors in need—the very populations that WPE serves. WPE provides fresh, nutritious food and cold weather clothing because they know the challenge is great—and growing. Fifty percent of working parents have reported job losses or hour reductions due to COVID-19, and that number goes up in underserved communities. A heartbreaking 1 in 4 Americans are skipping meals or relying on food donations during the pandemic, often for the first time. The demand for WPE’s rescued food has risen steeply since the onset of the pandemic, putting a substantial strain on its financial resources and volunteer base. WPE has tripled their food donations and is experiencing a dramatic rise in clothing requests at the White Pony General Store. By presenting their “Circle of Giving Playbook,” (viewable at www.whiteponyexpress.org/2020-circle-of-giving-campaign), WPE hopes to raise the funds needed to keep critical channels of service flowing through Contra Costa County. The goal of the campaign is to inspire you, appreciate you, share how you can help, and have a little fun along the way! To make an end-of-year financial gift to White Pony Single Family Home Customers – 2021 Holiday Tree Collection Schedule Express, please send your contribution to 3380 Vincent Road #107, Pleasant Hill, CA 94523, or donate online at www.whiteponyexpress.org/donate-funds. Your pickup will be on the same day as your regular garbage service but by a separate truck. WPE is a volunteer-powered 501(c)(3) organization headquartered in Pleasant Hill. Their goal is to uplift lives, believing we are Customers in the cities and unincorporated areas of Danville and Week of Jan 4–8 all part of one human family, and when one of us moves forward, Walnut Creek, plus Alamo, Diablo, and Blackhawk. everyone does. WPE’s motto is, “All of us taking care of all of us.” Week of Jan 11–15
Customers in the cities and unincorporated areas of Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda.
Week of Jan 18–22
Customers who missed prior tree collection.
AFTER Jan 22
Cut and place in organics cart; or call (925) 685-4711 for on-call, organics-only cleanup.
Tri-Valley Trapper
925-765-4209
Do:
Gopher/Mole Removal No Poison
• Remove lights, ornaments, and tinsel from branches before placing at curbside. • Leave trees at curbside on the same day as your regular garbage collection day during your city’s tree collection week. • Cut in half all trees that are 8 feet or over in height.
Don’t:
Tree Pickup Do’s & Don’ts
• Flocked trees can be collected curbside for a fee or be included in your once-a-year on-call garbage cleanup, but must be scheduled in advance. Call (925) 685-4711. If cut to fit inside with the lid closed, flocked trees may be placed in your landfill cart. • Do not leave stands (whether plastic, metal, or wood) on the tree. Trees with items still attached cannot be picked up.
Leave trees at curbside on the same day as your regular garbage collection day, during your city’s assigned week. COLLECTED TREES WILL BE COMPOSTED.
PAGE 4 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
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DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP
TWO EXCEPTIONAL ALAMO PROPERTIES 80 LARK PLACE, ALAMO
3203 STONE VALLEY ROAD, ALAMO
OFFERED AT $5,950,000 | 80LARK.COM
OFFERED AT $1,995,000 | 3203STONEVALLEY.COM
5 BEDROOMS + OFFICE | 5 BATHS | ±6,570 SF | ±0.80 ACRES
4 BEDROOMS | 2.5 BATHS | ±2,489 SF | ±0.81 ACRES
JULIE DEL SANTO
BRYAN HURLBUT
BROKER/OWNER 925.818.5500 julie@dudum.com DRE# 01290985
REALTOR® 925.383.5500 bryan@hurlbutteam.com DRE# 01882902
DRE# 01347508
Dudum Real Estate Group has not independently verified the information contained herein and therefore, assumes no legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyer should investigate any matters or items disclosed, identified or about which they have concerns to their own satisfaction.
FREE VIRTUAL PRESENTATION ON THE NILES CANYON RAILWAY
On December 18th at 11:30AM, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley will host a free virtual program on the Niles Canyon Railroad. Henry Baum, president of the railroad, will cover a variety of topics about the railroad and the role it has played in the development of the local community. Hear about the amazing railroad history of the valley. Learn about the lost town of Radum and how the Iron Horse Trail was involved with the Transcontinental Railroad, to name just a few of the interesting topics to be covered. To attend the free online presentation, visit www.museumsrv.org, and go to the “Events” section, or call 925-837-3750. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave., Danville. The Museum is presently closed due to Covid-19 county restrictions.
THE THRIFT STATION IN DANVILLE SEEKS NEW VOLUNTEERS
SRV GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
The San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society (SRVGS) provides resources, assistance, and educational opportunities to allow its members to successfully research Volunteers, 18 years and older, are needed at The their ancestry. The group offers monthly meetings with speakers who present topics Thrift Station in Danville, Tuesday through Saturday, covering various aspects of genealogical research. The group publishes a monthly from 9:45AM to 2:15PM. The shop is open to the public newsletter and offers several groups where members with common interests can meet Tuesday through Saturday from 10AM – 2PM. and discuss their specific areas of research. SRVGS also provides resources ranging The Thrift Station has been a valued member of the local from a large selection of reference books, to information on local genealogical libraries. community for more than 46 years, selling new and gently Classes are offered for the beginning researcher and those interested in genetic DNA. used donations to raise funds in support of the exceptional low-cost, broad-reachThere are many educational opportunities and Zoom presentations currently The Thrift Station in Danville Seeks New Volunteers ing, mental health services provided by the Discovery Counseling Center to available to explore genealogy from the safety of your own home. residents of the San Ramon Valley. The all-volunteer is comprised of Volunteers, 18 years and older, areorganization needed at The Thrift Station in Danville Tuesday – Saturday, to To learn more9:45 visitAM srvgensoc.org. 2:15 PM. The Shop is open the public Tuesday – Saturday fromThe 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM. dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers, many of towhom have served for years. large, loyal customer base loves to visit the store and look for new-found treasures. FREE HELP WITH MEDICARE PLAN CHANGES The Thrift Station (the Shop) has been a valued member of the local community more than 46 years selling new The Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP) is a The personal safety and volunteers customers paramount. andwellbeing gently used of donations to raiseand funds in support ofisthe exceptional low-cost, broad-reaching mental health program of Contra Health and safety devices and procedures have been set up for everyone’ services provided by the Discovery Counseling Center stoprotection. residents of the San Ramon Valley. We areCosta an all- County Aging and Adult Services. HICAP is available to help you figure out how volunteer organization of dedicated and enthusiastic volunteers, many of whom have served us for years. We Medicare plan changes affect your coverage in 2021 so Are you interested in joining this warm and welcoming volunteer family? Please also have a large, loyal customer base who love to visit the Shop looking for new-found treasures. that you can make informed decisions. complete the application form at www.discoveryctr.net/the-thrift-station. You can The website, www.cchicap.org, has information on how to register for free also stop by during normal hours submit anvolunteers application in person. Thebusiness personal safety andand wellbeing of our and customers are foremost in our minds. Health and safety one-on-one counseling, online talks, and updated Medicare plan information. The Thrift Station is devices located 486 San Ramon Valley Blvd., protection. Crossroad andat procedures have been set up for everyone’s For questions, or to learn more, call (925) 602-4163. Center, Danville. Interested in joining our warm and welcoming volunteer family? Please complete the application form on our webpage (https://www.discoveryctr.net/the-thrift-station). You can also stop by the Shop during normal business hours and submit an application in person.
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December 2020 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 5
DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP W H E R E R E A L E S TAT E I S S T I L L P E R S O N A L
RENDERING
ACTIVE
ACTIVE - ALAMO LOT
ACTIVE - NEW PRICING
PENDING
2691 CABALLO RANCHERO DRIVE, DIABLO 4 BEDS, 3 BATHS, 5,600 SF, 1.46 ACRE LOT
200 EL DORADO AVENUE, #6, DANVILLE 2 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 891 SF, CONDO
1640 CERVATO CIRCLE, ALAMO 4 BEDS, 5 BATHS, 4,134 SF, 2.05 ACRE LOT
BONNE WERSEL | 510.304.3303
1327 LAVEROCK LANE, ALAMO FINISHED 28,740 SF CUT LOT W/UTILITIES AT STREET OFFERED AT $999,000 MARY PISCITELLI & PETER GILLIS | 925.765.9095
PENDING
SOLD - NEW CONSTRUCTION
SOLD IN 5 DAYS - $117,000 OVER ASKING
SOLD
5327 SAN SIMEON PLACE, CASTRO VALLEY
335 LAS QUEBRADAS, ALAMO 5 BEDS, 6.5 BATHS, 4,900 SF, 3.00 ACRE LOT SOLD FOR $2,890,000 MARY PISCITELLI & PETER GILLIS | 925.765.9095
520 FALLEN LEAF CIRCLE, SAN RAMON 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,739 SF, 0.13 ACRE LOT
147 CORTONA DRIVE, DANVILLE 2 BEDS, 2.5 BATHS, 1,964 SF, 3,000 SF LOT
SOLD FOR $1,135,00
SOLD FOR $919,000
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047
BONNE WERSEL | 510.304.3303
SOLD - OVER ASKING
SOLD - REPRESENTED BUYERS
SOLD - REPRESENTED BUYERS
SOLD - REPRESENTED BUYER
3619 CROW CANYON ROAD, SAN RAMON 2 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,107 SF, CONDO
153 VALLE VISTA DRIVE, DANVILLE 5 BEDS, 4.5 BATHS, 3,792 SF, .32 ACRE LOT
7265 HANSEN DRIVE, DUBLIN 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,772 SF, 0.17 ACRE LOT
2318 HERITAGE HILLS DRIVE, PLEASANT HILL 4 BEDS, 2.5 BATHS, 2,070 SF, 0.18 ACRE LOT
OFFERED AT $4,800,000
3 BEDS, 2.5 BATHS, 1,640 SF, TOWNHOME OFFERED AT $745,000 ALISON PETERSEN | 925.984.7214
OFFERED AT $499,900
OFFERED AT $1,998,000
MARGY LYMAN | 925.963.6380
BRYAN HURLBUT, HURLBUT TEAM | 925.383.5500
SOLD FOR $630,000
SOLD FOR $1,775,000
SOLD FOR $1,075,000
SOLD FOR $1,030,000
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047
EVA ELDERTS | 925.726.9409
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047
ALISON J. PETERSEN 925.984.7214
BONNE WERSEL 510.304.3303
BRYAN HURLBUT 925.383.5500
REALTOR® | DRE#01177737
REALTOR® | DRE# 01173288
REALTOR® | DRE# 01347508
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA 925.878.8047 925.482.4142
EVA ELDERTS 925.726.9409
JOHN FONDNAZIO 925.817.9053
JULIE DEL SANTO 925.818.5500
KATIE HENDERSON 925.286.0026
REALTOR® | DRE# 02039328
REALTOR® | DRE# 01938194
BROKER/OWNER DRE# 01290985
REALTOR® | DRE# 02061210
MARY PISCITELLI & PETER GILLIS 925.765.9095 925.765.0629
MEREDITH & BONNIE KUMMELL 925.984.1344 925.980.9952
STEFANIE PASSEY 925.268.0780
TERESA ZOCCHI 925.360.8662
REALTOR® | DRE# 01442889
REALTOR® | DRE# 01907345
REALTORS® DRE# 01426129 / 01364038
REALTORS® DRE# 00905114 / 01364056
REALTORS® DRE# 01979180 / 01979181
KERI FRYER 925.980.9979
KORY MADGE 925.366.9899
LESLIE SHAFTON 925.360.9192
MARGY LYMAN 925.963.6380
REALTOR® | DRE# 02068960
REALTOR® | DRE# 01345227
REALTOR® | DRE#01944775
REALTOR® | DRE# 02067680
DRE# 01882902
WWW.DUDUM.COM
DANVILLE
WALNUT CREEK
LAMORINDA
BRENTWOOD
SIERRA TAHOE
Distinctive Properties
©2020 The information herein was obtained by sources deemed to be reliable by Dudum Real Estate Group. Dudum Real Estate group has not independently verified the information contained herein and therefore, assumes no legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyer should investigate any matters or items disclosed, identified or about which they have concerns to their own satisfaction. DRE Lic. 01882902
PAGE 6 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
RANCHO ROMERO ANTI-BULLYING CHALLENGE
Students at Rancho Romero Elementary School recently participated in an anti-bullying challenge. They created stories, poems, and artwork expressing their ideas on bullying prevention. They were encouraged by their teachers to share about what happened to them or someone else, how they felt about bullying, how they think it affects students and schools, what they have done to prevent bullying, or what others can do to prevent bullying. The students impressed the staff with their great ideas on what they wanted to see to improve the world. Poster contest winners included Kingsley Wolff (3rd Grade - Mrs. Alms) and Abigail Hooper (3rd Grade - Mrs. Cox).
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SONS IN RETIREMENT SAN RAMON VALLEY
Looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining Sons in Retirement San Ramon Valley Branch 128. There are monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. Additionally, members have lots of fun participating in a variety of activities including golf, hiking, biking, bocce ball, movies, cooking, finance, reading, computers, and more. Many other activities such as travel, dine outs, excursions, baseball games, and holiday parties include spouses, friends, and guests. NOTE: Due to current Coronavirus challenges, and for the safety and well being of members and guests, the SIR128 December meeting will be a virtual event using Zoom. The guest speaker will be board-certified and award-winning Clinical Nurse and media personality, Alice Benjamin. Alice will be speaking about “The Six Pillars of Brain Health.” This program is designed to empower participants to take charge of their brain health and learn more about the six pillars of a healthy-brain lifestyle. You won’t want to miss this informative and inspirational talk The presentation will be held Wednesday, December 16th at 11AM. If you’re interested in accessing the virtual meeting as a guest, please email membership@ sir128.com. To learn more about the Retirement branch, please visit www.SIR128.com.
VETERAN SERVICES BRING THE “OFFICE” TO YOU
With the COVID-19 County Health Order making it more challenging to get services from government offices, the Contra Costa County Veterans Services Office is removing barriers by opening a virtual office space. The virtual Veterans Office can give you close to an in-person experience. Veterans can learn about and apply for benefits, access VA health care, receive referrals for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder therapy, and much more. Visit the office website at www.contracosta.ca.gov/vets, during open office hours, for oneon-one assistance. Hours of operation are Mondays through Thursdays from 9am to noon and 1pm to 4pm, and on Fridays 9am to noon. Staffing the virtual office are Veterans Service Manager Sidney Jones, an Air Force Veteran, and Veteran Services Representative Buck Carmichael, a Marine Corps Veteran. Both have long-time experience connecting vets to critical services. For more information, please call the Veteran Services Office at 925-313-1481.
TREATS FOR THE TROOPS
Service group Delta Nu Psi has been collecting and sending fun foods and coffee to American servicemen and women located in the War Zones. To date, over 42,000 pounds of goodies have been sent! Unfortunately, with COVID in our midst, collections have been halted. However, a few packages are still being shipped. If you’d like to make a contribution to support the shipping of goodies, visit www.deltanupsi.org to learn more.
GO '10-8' WITH CHIEF SHIELDS
10-8
The ongoing Shelter in Place order has prevented the Danville Police Department from continuing programs like Coffee with the Cops, which allowed police a chance to directly interact with the community in a non-threatening environment. Not to be deterred, Danville Police Chief Allan Shields is coming to you via Facebook Live in a new community program called “10-8.” “10-8” is the radio code every officer says at the start of their shift and every time they finish helping someone and are ready to help someone else. “10-8” seemed to be a great title for the weekly program to reinforce to residents and businesses that the officers in Danville are here in service to the community. Come join the “10-8” meeting every Wednesday at 5PM on Facebook Live. Each program will have updates on what is happening in the Town of Danville, crime prevention tips, and answers to viewer questions. Community members can email questions to mailbag@danville.ca.gov. Questions can also be asked in the comment section on the Facebook Live. The Facebook page is “Danville Police Department.”
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December 2020 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 7
Celeste Pacelli “is the consummate professional.” NEW CONSTRUCTION - SINGLE STORY
PENDING WITH MULTIPLE OFFERS
PENDING WITH MULTIPLE OFFERS
1698 Reliez Valley Road, Lafayette
148 Alamo Springs Drive, Alamo
339 Corrie Place, Alamo
4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 4,026 Sq Ft +/- | 1.3+ Acre +/-
5 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 5,718 Sq Ft +/- | 1.14 Acre Lot +/-
5 Bed | 6.5 Bath | 5,966 Sq Ft +/- | 0.58 Acre +/-
$2,995,000 | 1698ReliezValleyRoad.com
$3,499,900 | 148AlamoSpringsDrive.com
$3,399,000 | 339CorriePlace.com
During this very challenging year with so many people struggling, I would like to sponsor a fundraiser for a local food bank. The charity I have chosen this year is Loaves and Fishes. If you’d like to donate, I can either pick up a check at your home, or you can donate online at: www.donorperfect.com/celestepacelli. If you prefer to donate via check, please be sure to include “Celeste Pacelli” on the memo. For all donations, I will match the donations at 25% of your donation, up to $2500. Any donation would be greatly appreciated! All donations must be posted prior to December 20, 2020 in order to provide these donations to families in need during the holidays. My family feels very fortunate and I’d like to do my small part to share a bit of holiday spirit for those less fortunate. Best wishes to you all this Holiday Season. Please stay safe and hug your loved ones. Celeste’s clients say: “Celeste is an ultimate professional when it comes to real estate. She knows the market very well, and goes above and beyond to make each interaction and transaction very easy. She is also very flexible and willing to work around your time. This was our second time working with her, and we won’t hesitate to work with her again if needed. We highly recommend her services to anyone else with their real estate needs.” See my 62 Zillow Reviews
Celeste Pacelli Broker Associate 925.395.1511 celestepacelli.com DRE 01862387 Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
PAGE 8 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
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Happy Holidays Stone Valley Center in the Heart of Downtown Alamo
Support Local Businesses-Shop and Dine CVS Pharmacy…………..……………………….314-9710 Forli Restaurant & Bar………………………….854-2638 Maguey’s Mexican Restaurant..…………….…..743-8997 MD Liquors & Food.……………………….…...838-1888 RJ’s Asian Fusion Bistro………………………..984-2486 Fred’s Cleaners…………………………………837-1180 Coffee Shop Alamo …………….……………….820-0400 Hospice Thrift Shoppes...……………………….820-6525 Taco Bell Express………………………………..406-0185 Custom Nails……………………………………..831-9839 Subway-Eat Fresh……………………………….362-1520 Sexton Veterinarian Clinic…...………………….855-8387
A Lot of Free Parking • Easy Access from I-680 • Located at Stone Valley Road & Danville Blvd. The Lineweaver Trust, Owner • (925) 837-3665 • www.diabloholdings.com
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SAN RAMON VALLE Y HIGH SCHOOL
By Liz Pagano, Interim Principal
December 2020 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 9
11 Critical Home Inspection Traps to be Aware of Weeks Before Listing Your Danville, Alamo Home for Sale Danville-Alamo - According to industry experts,
altogether. In most cases, you can make a
The past month has there are over 33 physical problems that will come reasonable pre-inspection yourself if you know what brought a lot of new energy under scrutiny during a home inspection when your you're looking for, and knowing what you're looking to our school commu- home is for sale. A new report has been prepared for can help you prevent little problems from growing nity, both in person and which identifies the eleven most common of these into costly and unmanageable ones. remotely. Our performing SRV choirs, led by the problems, and what you should know about them To help homesellers deal with this issue before impressive Michael DiGiacinto, treated us to a before you list your home for sale. their homes are listed, a free report entitled "11 “Monster Mash Cabaret” on Zoom to kick off our Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, Things You Need to Know to Pass Your Home Halloween celebrations. Later in November, Kyle there are a number of things that can fall short of Inspection" has been compiled which explains the issues involved. Nash directed his students in strong performances requirements during a home inspection. If not To hear a brief recorded message about how to of “Twelve Angry Jurors,” also using Zoom. Our identified and dealt with, any of these 11 items could order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1social distancing norms are no match for the cre- cost you dearly in terms of repair. That's why it's critical that you read this report before you list your 844-941-0941 and enter 1003. You can call any time, ativity of our students and teachers! home. If you wait until the building inspector flags 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It is wonderful to see more students on our these issues for you, you will almost certainly Get your free special report NOW to learn how to campus. As of November 17, we have moved into ensure a home inspection doesn't cost you the sale Phase Two and have several cohorts of students experience costly delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers away of your home. on campus for instruction four-days a week. In addition, afternoons are busy at SRVHS with This report is courtesy of The Jackson Group-EXP Realty DRE #01763819. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2019 students coming to work in the auto shop, glaze their ceramics, practice marching band formations, dance, and get academic support. Our athletic teams are also practicing outdoors. I have enjoyed a few afternoon strolls to the baseball field and to the football stadium. Seeing students and coaches working out in the fresh air brings a calming sense of normalcy to our anything-but-normal times. Our staff is busy working to prepare for even more of our students to return to a hybrid instruction model beginning on January 5, 2021. Our families declared their intentions (regarding whether to remain in remote learning or to return to school) during the second week in November, and now we are working with our teachers to create schedules that meet everyone’s needs. It’s a good thing that I enjoy complex puzzles! With the end of November comes Thanksgiving which leads to the many holiday traditions that close out the year. It is during this time of year that I always take time to reflect on what I am grateful for. Though 2020 has been a year of disappointment, hardship and loss for all of us in some ways, we have also gained some things. We have learned that we are capable of more than we knew we could do. We have learned that community and connectedness are vital. We do not have to be in the same room to get or receive help from one another. I am particularly grateful this holiday season for two things: one is for my family. Without their humor, love, and support, I would not be able to thrive. The second is that I have found a new professional home at San Ramon Valley High School. The community here is truly remarkable. Please take a moment to express your gratitude to someone who has helped you through 2020. Stay safe and be well.
ST. ISIDORE SCHOOL
By Carol Bender, Principal MAY YOUR DAYS BE MERRY AND BRIGHT
Overnight, the seasons have changed, and suddenly we find ourselves on the doorstep of winter. There is a definite chill in the air, and we look forward to our spirits being brightened by the joy of Christmas. While the season may appear different this year, knowing that our Savior leads us through all things brings us hope and joy. We are provided with a feeling of calmness and peace. Pause to enjoy all that the season has to offer – the colorful lights, the sound of Christmas carols, and the warmth of being in the presence of family. The pandemic cannot dull the wonder and excitement on the faces of young and old alike this time of year. I pray this Christmas season continues to bring love and cheer to all!
THE SPIRIT OF GIVING
At St. Isidore School, we truly believe we are at our best when serving others. The Christmas season provides us with an opportunity to spread some holiday cheer to those less fortunate in our community. Our students will once again participate in the Annual Knights of Columbus Toy Drive on December 11th. Seeing the students donate festive packages for local children in need is a heartwarming sight. Each year, SIS Student Leadership sells candy canes to the students in an effort to raise money for the Wheelchair Foundation. The Wheelchair Foundation provides a free wheelchair to every child, teen, and adult worldwide who needs one but does not have the means to acquire one.
LET YOUR CHILD GROW WITH US!
Please join us for our virtual TK/Kindergarten Information Meeting on Thursday, January 21 at 10AM. The meeting provides a wonderful opportunity to learn about our TK/Kindergarten program, meet the administration, hear from our teachers, and discover what makes St. Isidore School so unique. Faith is at the forefront of our community, and compassion, excellence, leadership, and service are emphasized and valued within the tradition of Catholic education. Please RSVP on our website, www.stisidore.org. We pray for the community’s continued health and safety, and we wish you all a wonderful Christmas and a very Happy New Year!
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Volunteers are needed at White Pony Express. Many of our neighbors cannot afford to feed and clothe themselves or their families. Opportunities at White Pony Express to serve our community are available for individuals, families, and groups. White Pony Express, founded by Dr. Carol Weyland Conner in 2013, and headquartered in Pleasant Hill, is a nonprofit that rescues fresh surplus food from supermarkets, restaurants, and farmers markets. This nutritious food is then delivered free to organizations that feed the hungry. In addition, high-quality clothing, children’s toys, and books are distributed free of charge. The goal of White Pony Express is to uplift lives. The group believes we are all part of one human family, and when one of us moves forward, everyone does. Hundreds of volunteers make White Pony Express possible. They volunteer because they believe in the mission and know they are helping others who have urgent needs at this critical time in their lives. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit whiteponyexpress.org/volunteer or call Mandy Nakaya, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at 925-818-6361 or email Mandy@ whiteponyexpress.org.
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PAGE 10 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
CATCH UP ON SOME “Zs”
THE HAPPIEST NEW YEAR By Jaime Kaiman, Monte Vista High, sophomore
It’s hard to believe that we’re already at the end of this crazy year. In retrospect, this year was definitely filled with a lot of negativity and loss. Those are two themes that we would’ve never thought of when we were getting ready to yell “Happy New Year” at 11:59PM on December 31st, 2019. With this year coming to a close, I think we should think about the possibilities next year could hold and how this year’s New Year’s celebration is going to look. I look forward to new beginnings. One great activity to do in the new year is to make resolutions. Some resolutions that I’ve made in past years were to keep my room clean or to be better at time management. Although those are good resolutions, I feel like this year calls for even better ones. I feel every year should be a year where you try to one-up and better your resolution from the previous year. I know that, at least for me, resolutions can be difficult to keep. I find I can make many little resolutions to achieve by a certain date, but by that date, I haven’t even really chipped away at one. This has happened to me so many times, which is why this year, I think I am going to make one goal that I want to achieve by the end of next year. If I end up achieving that goal early, I’ll move on to the next, and so on. It’s fun to set goals and challenge yourself, and I think it’s a great way to get excited for the new year! This New Year’s celebration is looking like it will be an extremely unconventional one due to the pandemic restricting us from having large gatherings. As I’ve said several times before, it is still possible to virtually have loads of fun with friends and family! If it’s a tradition to have a New Year’s party, just move it on over to a fun FaceTime or Zoom! When the ball is dropping and the countdown begins, you can still have fun shouting the numbers as they count down from 10 with your loved ones. Overall, the year 2020 will go down in history books and be labeled as a year that has held some of the most unprecedented times the world has ever seen. With this year coming to an end, I would like to give everyone a virtual high-five for making it through this strange year. With that, I hope everyone has Happy Holidays, and a great New Year!
MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL
By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal
Monte Vista’s (MV) fall semester is winding down, and our students and faculty looked forward to a week off for Thanksgiving Break. We have been full steam ahead over the past month as we continue towards our scheduled January 5th, 2021, reopening on the hybrid schedule. The past few weeks have been filled with a variety of questions from students, parents, and the community as families made their decisions about remaining in remote learning or opting into the new hybrid model. Both MV and the San Ramon Valley Unified School District hosted several virtual events in order for our respective leadership teams to share information and answer questions. For those not familiar with either system, the remote learning model is what we have been doing since last spring – students virtually access class with their devices, and teachers are in a virtual setting as well. The hybrid model brings in the opportunity for students to be on campus with their teacher. With this schedule, students are divided into two cohorts with each attending school in person two days per week. The other two days, students are completing online assignments. In either system, we will ensure that our students are receiving the very best education we can provide. The MV campus has not been totally quiet either. Over the past few weeks, we have welcomed back two small groups of our students in Special Education and accompanying staff. These two groups were phased in over three weeks, and it has been great to see students back on campus. In addition, Visual and Performing Arts, athletics, and several other groups have been able to meet and/or practice after school. These sessions have been well attended, and we are happy to provide our students with the opportunity to reconnect with their peers, our staff, and our campus. On November 20th, members of MV’s amazing choir joined several other local high school choirs for the High School Notes Concert hosted by Kaiser
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SAN RAMON VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY By Jamie Westgate, Principal
The other day during a meeting, our pastor asked our staff members, “What do you think God is doing in this pandemic season?” Although I think we could all generate a mental list of some positive things, my immediate thoughts as a principal were actually, “What is God undoing in this pandemic season?” Most educators would share that the world is not easy on kids in our society today. There is a rise in childhood depression, anxiety, and violence that we rarely saw decades ago. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, I’ve heard fewer and fewer stories about this, and I can’t help but see the correlation. As a result, it’s made me wonder if God isn’t helping to reestablish lives of simplicity. In my mental list of curiosities, I’ve wondered if we need to undo the overscheduled calendars of kids participating in too many activities. Maybe it’s good to let go of high pressure try-outs of our elementary students when children would benefit more from backyard exploration and creative play with their neighbors. Perhaps family game nights around the table bring a healthier form of fun and laughter than defaulting to a movie theater where there is no conversational interaction with loved ones. There appears to be less of a “hurry up” mindset which may be easing tension for both parents and students alike. Overall, it’s been refreshing to see what has been “undone” from our days prior to COVID-19, and I can’t help but hope we learn from it. Our students have been back on campus for in-person instruction since mid-October, and I have observed a joy in both students and parents that I don’t remember seeing in my 27 years as an educator. We’ve observed little conflict on the playground during recess, and students seem more gracious to one another than ever before. Parents have flooded my inbox with words of encouragement and gratitude towards our staff in a way I’ve never experienced. There isn’t a time of day I couldn’t open my office window and hear a constant buzz of activity and laughter. It appears some of those changes from the past nine months have genuinely altered our students in a positive way. As we get ready to celebrate Christmas this month, I’m reflective that God chose Jesus to be born in the most humble of ways… a stable with local shepherds as His first visitors. How interesting that God wanted His own Son to begin with a simple life. I’m sure most of us will be ready to say good-bye to 2020, but I hope we won’t lose sight of the good as well. This year, I’m so grateful for children and their innocence, laughter, and ability to rise above circumstances. I’ve learned a lot from them this year. May your 2021 be filled with simply joys. Permanente and the Diablo Regional Arts Association (DRAA). The concert was featured on DRAA’s Facebook and YouTube sites. Please take a moment to visit and check out MV’s performance. We look forward to the time when we can see a performance in person. MV athletics is also anxiously waiting for a decision on the start to the winter season. This past summer, CIF postponed all fall sports and consolidated them into the winter and spring seasons. With the spike in COVID cases, at press time we are awaiting a decision on whether the winter season will be postponed further. We are crossing our fingers that we will have a safe start to athletics soon. On behalf of the Monte Vista Community, I wish everyone a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season with their family and loved ones. Thank you all for your positive thoughts as we go through this difficult time together.
DANVILLE ALAMO GARDEN CLUB
The Danville Alamo Garden Club would like to invite you to their monthly meetings, where they will share their knowledge and love of gardening. Monthly meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month, and are currently presented via Zoom. The meetings feature an inspiring and educational guest speaker and program. Please visit www.DAGC.us to find detailed information about the monthly program, activities, and contact information. To contact the Membership VP, click on “About DAGC” then “About Membership.” The group looks forward to meeting you!
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YOGURT CAN MAKE
A MESS OF
RECYCLING, TOO. >
WIPE OR LIGHTLY RINSE YOUR CONTAINERS AND PLASTICS, AND PREVENT CONTAMINATED RECYCLING. Empty. Clean. Dry. When you follow those three words you’re helping to keep our recycling valuable. Bottles, cans and plastics that are dirty with leftover food or liquids can contaminate valuable recycling. Do your part. Keep it clean and recycle smart!
recyclesmart.org
PAGE 12 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
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BUSINESS NOT AS USUAL By County Supervisor Candace Andersen HOW TO HELP SMALL BUSINESSES THIS HOLIDAY SEASON
Last month we celebrated Small Business Saturday, an annual shopping holiday observed the Saturday following Thanksgiving. In normal years, the day provides us the opportunity to support the “mom and pop” stores that serve as the pillars of our communities, but they are often overlooked due to other alternatives such as online shopping or large malls. In today’s age, when the likes of Amazon and other corporate giants dominate the retail industry, it is especially important to frequent these small businesses and help them continue to flourish. As we move closer to the one-year anniversary of the first Coronavirus “lockdown,” COVID-19-related restrictions and the virus remain in place and are still very much a part of our lives. Consequently, this year’s holiday season is providing new and unprecedented challenges for small business owners. Due to increases in case numbers and hospitalizations, Contra Costa County has been required by the State to limit capacity for indoor retail among other restrictions. As a result, this year’s holiday season has been the very first of its kind. Small businesses and their owners, already accustomed to adversity, will continue to feel the effects of the restrictions outlined in the health orders. However, it is important to note that these cautious guidelines still allow us to engage in commerce and keep our local businesses up and running. Many small businesses have a website from which you can select an item and either pick it up at the store, obtain it at the curb, or have it delivered. Before clicking the “Add to Cart” button while shopping online, consider calling a local store to see if they happen have the same item in stock. Please patronize our local retailers whenever possible. Our small businesses are working tirelessly to serve customers while doing so in a safe and authorized manner. Of course, restaurants in our community need our help as well. With indoor dining temporarily prohibited, and our chilly weather limiting outdoor dining, don’t hesitate to order food from your favorite restaurant menu, and enjoy it in front of your cozy fireplace at home. For small business owners, there are resources for you. A new call center is now available in Contra Costa County to connect businesses and workers with helpful federal, state, and local programs. This includes providing resources and referrals on loans and grants, unemployment insurance, payroll subsidies, and other critical concerns. The small business call number is 833-320-1919, and it is available Monday through Friday, 8:30AM to 5PM. Additionally, there are online webinars for employers coping with COVID-19. The Contra Costa Small Business Development Center (SBDC) has created an Online Webinars for Coping with a COVID-19 page to provide tools for navigating the economic difficulties posed by COVID-19, including step-by-step directions on filing an application for the SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loan. For personalized assistance, businesses can call 925-222-5228 or email admin@ contracostasbdc.org. There are resources the state has provided for business owners as well. The Governor’s Office of Business and Economic Development has compiled helpful information related to COVID-19 for employers, employees, and all Californians, available at www.business.ca.gov. The COVID-19 resource page includes information about the state of California’s small business loan programs and tax relief programs. At the federal level, there is the Federal Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program through the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA).The SBA is offering low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital to small businesses suffering substantial economic injury as a result of COVID-19. The deadline for the Economic Injury Disaster Loan is December 16, 2020. Businesses can apply on the SBA Disaster Loan Assistance website at www.disasterloan.sba.gov. For application assistance, call SBA’s Customer Service Center at 800-659-2955 or email disastercustomerservice@sba.gov. There are also resources for Employers Impacted by COVID-19 through the California Employment Development Department (EDD).The EDD has created a centralized COVID-19 resource page at www.edd.ca.gov for both workers and employers impacted by COVID-19. If you have any questions about the latest health order or would like more information on how to support local businesses and restaurants, feel free to contact my office at 925-957-8860.
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COMMISSION VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT
TOWN RECRUITING FOR SEVERAL COMMISSION POSITIONS
The Town of Danville is looking for residents interested in serving on one of several commissions seeking new members. City Clerk Marie Sunseri notes the following commissions are in the process of accepting applications. • Design Review Board - One member for a four-year term ending December 31, 2024 • Arts Advisory Board - One youth member, for a two-year term ending June 30, 2022 • Heritage Resource Commission - Two regular members for terms ending December 31, 2024; one licensed architect to fulfill term ending December 31, 2023 • Parks, Recreation and Arts Commission - Two regular members to fulfill terms ending June 30, 2021 • Planning Commission - Four regular members and one alternate member for four-year terms ending December 31, 2024 • Contra Costa County Advisory County on Aging - One Danville representative for two-year term ending June 30, 2022 • Contra Costa Mosquito and Vector Control District - One Danville representative for four-year term ending December 31, 2024 Applications are available on the Town website, www.danville. ca.gov/284/Commission-Recruitment and must be submitted by December 1. Interviews will take place in January, and successful applicants will be appointed by the Town Council at the meeting on January 12th. For additional information, contact City Clerk Marie Sunseri at (925) 314-3401 or msunseri@danville.ca.gov.
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PAGE 14 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
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VALLEY VIGNETTE By Beverly Lane
FIRES DEMOLISH VALLEY LANDMARKS
Fires, called “tongues of venom” by one writer, seared people’s memories throughout valley history. Fires destroyed, or nearly destroyed, several valley landmarks and flared up regularly on Mt. Diablo. Below are a few newspaper articles describing these devastating fires. THE UNION ACADEMY SCHOOL HOUSE BURNS ~ Contra Costa Gazette July 11, 1868 “The Union Academy, near Alamo, in the San Ramon Valley, was totally destroyed by fire between 1 and 3 o’clock on Monday morning last. The fire is reported to have originated from an ash barrel setting close to the building and had made such progress when the few inmates of the house were awakened, that no effort could be of avail to check it or save any considerable portion of the household or school furniture. There was an insurance of $5,000 on the property with the ‘Builders’ Company,’ of San Francisco. The Academy was a large two-story and basement building, erected in 1859 (if our memory is not at fault) by a joint stock company composed mainly of the residents within a few miles circuit of the location. It was intended for use as a boarding and day school for instruction of pupils in the advanced grades of study, but from the beginning, we believe, has served also as the District school and been supported in part by the public funds. The school term had recently closed at the Academy, and at the time of the fire the occupants consisted of only the family of the proprietor and a domestic or two.”
DANVILLE EMPORIUM
Four Homes are Burned at Danville ~ Contra Costa Courier and Danville Journal, July 16, 1926 “Fire caused by jelly boiling over on a coal oil stove and bursting into flames completely destroyed a store and three homes in Danville on Monday afternoon and for several hours threatened the entire town of Danville with conflagration. The loss is estimated at $30,000. The buildings destroyed are a store, “The Danville Emporium,” belonging to Joseph Foster and three houses. Mrs. Joseph Foster was making jelly on a coal oil stove in the rear of the store which was used for their living quarters when the jelly boiled over, causing the room to burst into flames. Grabbing her small baby, Mrs. Foster ran from the room screaming for help. Foster ran into the burning quarters and managed to save some personal effects. Foster was badly burned on the face and hands. In the meantime, the alarm for aid was sent to Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Concord, and Martinez, and within a very short time, the engines from Walnut Creek and Lafayette arrived. Farmers from the adjacent town formed a basket brigade and worked to extinguish the cinders that were alighting on buildings in the rear and around the burning houses. Pete Lynch of San Ramon was overcome by the flames while trying to save merchandise in Foster’s store.”
DANVILLE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH
Landmark of Danville is Destroyed by Fire ~ Courier-Journal, Walnut Creek, Ca., June 2, 1932 “One of the old landmarks of the San Ramon Valley was burned to the ground Friday night when the Presbyterian church of Danville was destroyed by fire from an unknown cause. The church had been built about 58 years ago, and in those 58 years it has seen continuous services every Sunday. The conflagration which started earlier in the evening broke into a blaze at about 12:30. The roaring wind fanned the blaze and blew the sparks to neighboring and adjacent buildings which took the combined efforts of the Danville and Walnut Creek Fire departments to keep them from being destroyed by the fire. Through the heroic efforts of these firefighters, the pastor’s house about 50 feet away was saved from burning, and a tool house within 20 feet was also saved. The terrific gusts of wind blew the red hot sparks a distance of three quarters of a mile and kept the firemen diligently working to extinguish grass fires which started at different intervals. Flaming shingles set afire the barn on the Flournoy ranch, 300 yards from the church, but the blaze was quickly extinguished.” (Jim Root rescued some books from the unlocked church office, including the original minute books of the SRV Union High School, now in the Museum of the San Ramon Valley archives.)
BALDWIN HOUSE
Lack of Water Causes Loss of San Ramon Valley Landmark ~ Valley Pioneer, Danville Calif., Thurs., April 21, 1955 “Early Tuesday morning, fire broke out in the kitchen wing of the John Baldwin home on the highway south of Danville and ultimately destroyed the landmark home, leaving only the foundations and three tall chimneys standing. Mr. Baldwin, 81, and his housekeeper, Mrs. Sarah Lewis, 60, were forced to flee in their night clothes. Nothing was saved from the home. With the work of the Danville Fire Department and workers from the nearby Bishop Ranch, the fire might have been brought under control, but the water supply gave out. The fire was caused by faulty wiring, according to Fire Chief Duane Elliott. More than 30 volunteers struggled for several hours to save the structure and did manage to save nearby buildings. Fire Chief Elliott placed the damage to the home at $15,000 but said no value could be put on the large amount of antique furniture and early-day possessions in the home which was built in 1888.”
SAN RAMON GENERAL STORE
San Ramon Chronicles, p. 117, published 2015 “In 1963, San Ramon Fire Chief Bill Fereira organized a practice fire and burned down the San Ramon General Store which was one of the oldest buildings in town. It happened this way: the Chief ’s parents (who had lived in and owned the store since 1924) had moved into a new house, and the store was left vacant. To be reoccupied, the store needed new wiring and structural work, and the costs to bring it up to county code were prohibitive. So it was burned to give the volunteers some actual experience.”
FIRES ON MOUNT DIABLO
No landmark more prominent, no fires more spectacular ~ Fire Line, SRVFPD, 75 Years of Service, p. 29 Since 1891, when records began, Mt. Diablo has had 108 fires…in 1977 from August 1-5, a fire ignited by lightning burned 6,041 acres on the northern side. One of the largest fires ever, burned for five days, from July 2 – 7 in 1931, and consumed 14,000 acres of grass and brush on the south side. Volunteer and later Fire Chief Duane Elliott remembered the 1931 fire: “We were there for three days and two nights. I slept on the rocks and the fire headed towards Livermore.”
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PAGE 16 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
QUICK TRIPS
By Linda Summers Pirkle STUNNING VIEWS AND BOARDWALK BUTTERFLIES
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ACTION POOL REPAIR Serving Alamo & Danville Since 1979!
An ancient stone gate from the 14th century welcomes you to Èze, a tiny medieval village perched high above the sea in the Alpes-Maritimes Department of France. The pedestrian-only cobblestone streets wind up through picturesque art galleries, hotels, and small shops. www.actionpoolrepair.com The oldest building in the village is the Chapelle de la Sainte Croix and dates to 1306. At the top of the hill, 1,401 feet above sea level, is the yourpoolman@hotmail.com lovely church Notre Dame de l’Assumption, built in 1764, and “Jardin exotique d’ Èze,” full of cacti and succulents. When my husband and I first visited Èze, many years ago, we Contractor Lic# 978033-C53 found the hilltop church completely empty. An evocative recording of a chorus of voices greeted us, and along with the birds singing in the courtyard, it created an otherworldly experience for us. The most memorable part of a trek to the top of the historical village of Èze is the stunning view of neighboring cities Nice, Antibes, St. Jean Cap Ferrat, and Monaco and of course the gorgeous blue Mediterranean Sea. A bit closer to home, the historic Wilder Ranch State Park in Santa Cruz offers gorgeous views along pathways and trails on 7,000 acres from the crest of Ben Lomond Mountain, through marshlands of a nature preserve, to the seashore. Old Cove Landing Trail, along Highway 1 in Santa Cruz in the Wilder Ranch State Park, is an easy two-mile trail that takes you from the parking lot through farmstead to jaw-dropping views from cliffs 50-100 feet above the Pacific Èze, France Ocean. There are even a few trails that lead to the secluded beaches below. If you are like me, allow extra time for this trail because you will be stopping every few feet to take photos and enjoy the incredible views. A few miles south of Wilder State Beach, 65-acre Natural Bridges State Beach is home to one of the largest monarch butterfly over-wintering sites in California. Even if most of us are not traveling far and wide, monarch butterflies continue to make their 2,000-mile migration journey. From October to mid-February, these fragile creatures arrive at the coast from across the western United States to seek sanctuary from the winter’s cold. On my visit, I learned that monarchs cluster in rings of trees, intertwining their legs to avoid being dislodged from their companions by the wind and rain. The clusters can resemble a clump of dead leaves. When the temperature reaches 55 degrees, butterflies burst from their cluster, floating through the trees and into the surrounding area, in search of flower nectar and dew. To get to the monarch butterfly viewing station, take the short boardwalk pathway located across from the Natural Bridges Visitor Center. The boardwalk leads to a canyon “cathedral” that serves as a refuge for the monarchs with a ceiling of towering eucalyptus and pine trees. Currently, classroom groups are taking their field trip to spot the monarch butterflies via Zoom. Monarch Butterfly Nature Preserve is located at 2531 West Cliff Drive, Santa Cruz. Wilder Ranch State Park View from Old Cove Landing Trail, Wilder Ranch is located at 1401 Coast Road, Santa Cruz. Fees are $10 per car. Linda Summers Pirkle, a travel writer, Francophile, consultant, and long-term Danville resident, has arranged State Park in Santa Cruz. and led tours for the Town of Danville for several years. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas, email Coverthemap@gmail.com.
925.820.3640
Recently, Rancho Romero Elementary School held a “Unity Day”to show that they are joined together against bullying, and united for kindness, acceptance, and inclusion. The motto for the day was, “Make it orange, and make it end!” Staff and students proudly displayed their “orange message” of hope and support.
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CLIP NOTES
By Jody Morgan
California’s native Christmas berry, also known as California holly and toyon, boasts fruit as red as Rudolph the Reindeer’s nose. The evergreen shrub provides a winter feast for foraging birds. Over-harvesting of boughs for holiday decorations played a role in California legislation introduced in the 1920s banning picking plants on public lands. The natural range of this bearer of scarlet berries follows the California coast south into Baja California and as far north as a few miles across the California/Oregon border. To the east, it reaches the Sierra foothills. Christmas berry belongs to the apple side of the rose family. Its botanical appellation, Heteromeles arbutifolia, is derived from the Greek heter meaning different and malus meaning apple. But what does toyon mean? Most sources agree that toyon, possibly a Spanish interpretation of the native word “totcon,” comes from the name used by the Ohlone people who resided along the central California coast. Unhealthy eaten right from the bush due to the cyanide compounds contained (although the toxicity level is low), the raw fruit is fortunately unpalatable even to herbivores until fully ripe. Deer graze on young leaves in times of drought. Cooking removes the toxicity and modifies the acidity of the berries. Many Native American residents of California as well as early settlers prepared toyon fruit for ingestion in cakes, beverages, and jelly. The Kumeyaay, Cahuilla, and Costanoan people used the bark and leaves in an infusion to cleanse and treat wounds. The Chumash folks fashioned arrow shafts, digging sticks, and other tools from the wood. Clusters of tiny white flowers feed bees and butterflies from June to July. The berries appear in August or September, but don’t fully mature until December. During the process, the cyanogenic glucosides in the pulp shift to the seeds. By the time the bush is robed in scarlet, birds can happily devour the fruit and leave the seed behind as waste to generate a new crop of shrubs. As a U.C. Berkley graduate student, Stephen Bailey studied the berry-browsing habits of three fruit-eating bird species commonly overwintering in the Bay Area. He found toyon was the most important source of berries for robins, thrushes, and waxwings. Alison Hawkes and Alan Kaplan write about his research in “Ask the Naturalist: How Important Are Red Toyon Berries To the Winter Food Chain?” published in Bay Nature, December 22, 2016. “Both robins and waxwings prefer to perch and pluck at berries within reach, and spend about 16 minutes at a time doing that. Robins take five berries during that time, and cedar waxwings take three...Hermit thrushes skulk around very carefully and zip in and out of a bush, bagging one berry at a time from under the nose (beak) of the dominant robin.” Unlike many wild things, toyon happily submits to the confines of a garden, rewarding judicious pruning with increased production of fruit. Fast-growing, a toyon plant can reach 10 feet in three years in the most favorable situation. Fire retardant when adequately watered, toyon can be shaped into a single or multi-trunked tree or trimmed as a hedge. In Flowering Shrubs of California, Lester Rowntree writes: “Toyon is a useful shrub for all sorts of places. The long, narrow leaves are good to look at, the flower has a scent like English Hawthorn, and the berries --well, everyone knows the berries. It is so adaptable that it is hard to make a failure of growing it. It takes partial shade but grows also in full sun; it will be happy in heavy, caked soil; but one reason it does so well in gardens is that it is quite comfortable in rich soil and with a moderate amount of summer watering. It will grow in wind or shelter, arranging its affairs to suit the exposure.” Theo dore Payne (1872-1963) introduced toyon (as well as many other California natives) to the nursery trade. Renowned as a pioneering landscape architect, Ralph Cornell (1890-1972) focused on using indigenous California plants in his designs. Early in his career, Cornell partnered with Payne. In Conspicuous California Plants, Cornell praises toyon: “Any plant that encourages bird life, supplies the bees with an unexcelled source of honey, gives food to man, furnishes tannin from its bark, protects arid slopes from erosion, paints the landscape with vivid colors, and carries joy into the home at Serving the Bay Area with honesty and integrity since 1973 Christmas time, when no other berries 2395 Monument Blvd., Suite J 3191-J Crow Canyon Pl are available to most Californians, surely Concord San Ramon deserves the protection of man, ‘whom Carpets, Hardwood, Laminate & Stone (925) 680-4433 (925) 866-2200 www.MacFloor.com • info@macfloor.com Since 1973 it serves so well.’” (Across from Costco Gas Station, next to Harvest House)
PAGE 18 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
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TECHNOLOGY MATTERS
A BIT OF ESCAPISM By Evan and Amy Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.
Looking for a game for the holidays? Interested in indulging in a bit of escapism? I suggest considering the Oculus Quest 2. My family has slowly been introduced to the world of Virtual Reality (VR). My first experience was last Christmas, when my family did a VR escape room in San Ramon. It was a fun time, but I wasn’t necessarily sold on the technology, as it is still toeing the delicate balance between immersive quality and price-point for at-home systems. The Oculus Quest 2 was released mid-October, and it strikes that balance. Unlike the other Oculus products that require connection to a gaming PC, the Quest is a free-standing system and is only $299 for 64GB of storage. For an additional $100, you can get a 256GB version. Games range from free (although there aren’t a ton) to $40, with the average hovering around $10-$20. While there are many battle games, there are also plenty of puzzle-based games, fitness experiences, travel explorations, meditation experiences, and more. The system comes with a headset with built-in speakers, and two handheld controllers. Games may be designed for sitting or standing play. If you are planning on standing while playing, make sure to clear a decent space that will stay free of obstructions while you have the headset on. When playing a standing game, the software will have you create a “guardian boundary,” where you will draw a circle around your space that is clear of coffee tables, chairs, and walls. If you accidentally get near that boundary during the game, the outline of the boundary will first show in blue and then red, if you have crossed over the line. The first games we purchased to test were Supernatural (free), Gadgeteer ($14.99), and The Room VR: A Dark Matter ($29.99). Supernatural is a fitness game that sets you in the middle of breathtaking scenery across the world, promptly gets you to start flailing your arms to hit targets, and then gets you to drop down into squats while a virtual coach is cheering you on. While Supernatural is free to download, the program is subscription-based and requires a $19/month subscription after a 30 day free trial. If you’re
looking for alternatives for the gym while the days are getting shorter and colder, and you’re less encouraged to do outdoors workouts, it could be a good supplement for you. Gadgeteer is a puzzle-based game that has you create Rube Goldberg-type machines. If you were ever a fan of the PC game Crazy Machines in the early 2000’s, you’ll love Gadgeteer. Since the game is in VR, you’re manipulating objects in a full three dimensional way. Items don’t necessarily snap into place in the game - if you’re placing a block, you can manipulate how it’s angled and where it’s placed on the ground. If you don’t have a steady hand while doing so, you may topple over the tile. Lastly, we have been loving The Room. The Room is essentially an at-home VR escape room. Gameplay lasts for 4-5 hours, and you can have up to three profiles within the game. During gameplay, you will be trying to solve an overarching mystery - a series of people that have disappeared - in four separate chapters. Each chapter is in a different setting and focuses on a different person. As someone that is a bit jumpy and doesn’t like things to pop out of corners, I was a little weary of this game at first. There’s spooky music, ominous mist, and disappeared persons. That being said, it doesn’t dip into the creepy and is wildly captivating. The puzzles are difficult (some more than others), but there are helpful hints that you can choose to utilize when you’re feeling stuck, and the hints don’t give away the whole game. The Oculus isn’t an absolutely perfect system, though. The technology is still in its early days. We have found that the headset can be a bit bulky, and even start to cause headaches and neck aches if worn for too long. During Supernatural, your glasses can fog up quickly if you are a glasses wearer, and you need to ensure you’ve accurately set your guardian boundary and exiled all animals from the room, as you can easily accidentally swat a dresser or step on a tail during the quick movements. If you want to play something as a family and don’t want to shell out for multiple headsets, it can be a bit of a bummer. However, the Oculus does have casting capabilities that can either cast the screen to your phone’s Oculus app, or, if you have one, a Google Chromecast ($30). We’ve enjoyed playing The Room as a family, while casting the game to the TV so we can help each other through the puzzles. Do you want to “get away” and need technical guidance? Please reach out to us at info@pcioit.com, or call our helpdesk at 925-552-7953. Advertorial
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2020… WHAT A GREAT YEAR!
people aren’t aware: amortization. If you purchase someone’s business, you can amortize the cost of the purchase over 15 years, which means that every year By Peter T. Waldron, Managing Partner of part of the purchase price is deducted from your tax bill. Spectrum Wealth Partners • General Deductions – While it is important to run a cash flow positive “Time changes everything except something within us11/21/2020 Word Search Generator :: Create your own business, there is an adage that says: “In order to make money, youprintable must word which is always surprised by change.” ~ Thomas Hardy spend money.” The MBA in me would pose a few questions: what is the cost As an eternal optimist, it is somewhat difficult to be of the capital? What will the return be on the spend? What is the break-even faced with the facts of 2020. The catastrophic pandemic analysis? All joking aside, bringingClick on a new boost productivity, hereemployee to printcan this page without adver that has killed over 1,000,000 people worldwide has spending money onhave marketing this year might to growth year,theand If you a pop-up blocker, disablelead it or override it bynext holding Ctrl butto exacted a litany of economic, political, and societal undeveloping your people (which costs money) can potentially help you best Printing tips: certainties. While I don’t want to discount the painful your competition. You might find adjusting the page setup on your computer (changing the margins, header/foo realities that many are experiencing, I do want to point out that the stock market While the tax environment is ever-changing, itbetter is essential with printoutto forkeep someup puzzles. has recovered, interest rates are historically low, and home prices are up. While opportunities to reduce your tax bill. This isn’t cheating the system; rather, it is this is great for our balance sheets, it doesn’t fully illustrate the amazing things OR, youusing can go and change your intended. puzzle settings to change grid size, font size, about theback system how it was Hopefully, youthe can find a way to or re puzzle. that have happened this year. Many have taken a step back from their previously reduce your tax bill so you have some extra money this holiday season. harried lives and course-corrected in the middle of the storm, which has led to On a final note, let’s all try to be truly present in the moments we have with deeper bonds with spouses, children, parents, friends, and neighbors. I believe our family as the troubles of the world can only be solved by our desire to Create a new word search these renewed bonds will carry us through the chaos of 2020. Oh, and then protect the legacy of our family. there is our enduring hatred of paying taxes too. So here are the top ten items “Family is not an important thing. It’s everything.” ~ Michael J. Fox that I believe individuals and business owners should focus on when it comes To schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation, please MAKE YOUR OWN WORKSHEETS ONLINE @ WWW.ATOZTEAC to year-end tax planning: contact me at 925-786-7686 or email peter.waldron@lfg.com.
INDIVIDUALS
• Employee 401(k) Contributions – $19,500 (age 50 and older: $26,000) – Confirm that you will maximize your retirement contribution. Every dollar that you put into your 401(k) is a dollar that is not taxed. Your employer’s contributions are above and beyond these limits, so make sure your dollars are maxed out. Roth 401(k)s are a good idea for lower-income earners and sometimes as you approach retirement. • Charitable Donations: – 100% of adjusted gross income (AGI) for Cash Donations / 30% of AGI for Stock Donations – If you don’t itemize your deductions and instead use the standard deduction, your taxes will not be reduced by donations. However, if you itemize, you can take advantage of charitable deductions. Remember that the goal of donating is to help society in addition to reducing your tax bill, but you must give up something. If you don’t know what cause to support, use a donor-advised fund to begin funding future giving today. • Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) – $3,500 for Individual / $7,100 for Family – HSAs eliminate taxes on expenses like doctor office visits, prescriptions, and physical therapy, among other items. This type of account also allows you to accumulate and spend the money out of a pre-tax account. • Dependent Care Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs) – $5,000 – Similar to an HSA, a FSA lets you save on a pre-tax basis and spend those dollars on eligible dependent care expenses such as preschool, summer day camp, adult day care, and nursery school. • Tax Loss Harvesting: – $3,000 to Unlimited – While this seems straightforward, many people miss the opportunity to save tax dollars because they are not mindful of their taxable investment accounts. At the bottom of the market in March of this year, you could have booked losses while remaining invested for the recovery. These realized losses are matched against unlimited gains and can be carried forward until they are exhausted. If you don’t have gains, you can use them to offset $3,000 of normal income. • Starting a Business – No Exact Benefit – Starting a small business provides many benefits, including the ability to write off expenses like phones, cars, a home office space, computers, travel, and much more. It is important to note that the IRS does not consider a hobby to be a business; you will need to earn an income. Remember, any income earned is taxable unless there are expenses to offset.
BUSINESS OWNERS
• Depreciation – If you purchased any assets this year, make sure to depreciate them on your tax return. This includes office furniture, equipment, computers, appliances, and automobiles. Review whether Section 179 and bonus depreciation apply to your purchase(s). • Cost Segregation – For investors in commercial and multi-unit properties, you can complete a cost segregation analysis to reestablish more favorable depreciation schedules for parts of your property. For example, some of your property’s elements (AC, flooring, etc.) have a depreciation schedule that is shorter (seven years) than the typical 27.5 or 39 years. You can move that tax benefit forward and potentially put cash back in your hands versus stretching the benefit over the next 39 years. • Amortization – The idea of buying someone else’s business might seem daunting; however, the government will give you a tax benefit of which most
Peter T. Waldron: California Insurance License #0E47827. Peter T. Waldron is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offers investment advisory service through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Spectrum Wealth Partners is not an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors. 3201 Danville Blvd, Suite 190, Alamo, CA 94507. Insurance offered through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc. and other fine companies. This information should not be construed as legal or tax advice. You may want to consult a tax advisor regarding this information as it relates to your personal circumstance. The content of this material was provided to you by Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp. for its representatives and their clients. CRN-3337746-111820 Advertorial
NAME:_______________________________ DATE:___
December DECEMBER WORD SEARCH
Y S B C H R I S T M A S D U A Z H V Q X P X P
P R E D I C O L X M C R A F T S E X L Q C A D
M C H Y O I W M Q E H H T P O N U H K P W D G
• BALLET • CAROLING • CHOIR • CHRISTMAS • CIDER • COCOA • COOKIES
A S K H B G T P S L E L E L O P H T R O N Q T
P A G B N O M J R A I R D B A L L E T B D G B
F S N I A R T Y A A E G T T L W S L W B F W Z
R C T G C I B Z R W P G H K A C W P V M S O E
• CRAFTS • FUDGE • GIFTS • HANUKKAH • KWANZAA • LIGHTS • MENORAH
S N O W M A N T G A I I N T A P T Z H E R N S
T V D N F A E D P E C V N I S O G N I M W D V
F R D V W E W D K G O G Y E L Y D K T U R E V
I P X K R E K C A R C T U N C O O L Q M E R X
G G Z T C I R D V N O B P K G O R O O X A L W
H A N U K K A H N A A X S I C X N A M H T A T
K J P I W Q A H H N L Z I B Q R O E C T H N V
H A R O N E M Q F M H C R I O H C Z S L S D K
I J Q A C Q X V N L O D A J X V X P W C F G C
V R A T N A S F U D G E K O R N A M E N T U M
• NORTHPOLE • TRAINS • NUTCRACKER • TREETRAIL • OLDOAKTREE • WONDERLAND • ORNAMENT • WREATHS • PINECONES See answers on page 26 • SANTA • SNOWMAN
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PAGE 20 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
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DANVILLE POLICE OFFER ‘EXCHANGE’ ZONE
By Roger Smith, President
Residents who purchase items via online services such as Craigslist now have a designated neutral ‘Exchange Zone’ in the upper parking lot of the Danville Town offices to conduct their business. Signage has been installed, and the Danville Police Department has designated parking spaces at the Town of Danville offices, 510 La Gonda Way, for residents to conduct transactions in a constantly video-recorded space. With proximity to police headquarters and video recording, the goal is to have an atmosphere of safety and assurance for would-be buyers while dissuading criminals from using online merchandising for criminal purposes. To learn more about the safe zone, contact Sargent Ron Hoekwater at (925) 314-3700 or rhoekwater@danville.ca.gov.
WHAT IF WE LOST BOTH THE FOREST AND THE TREES?
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH
ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)
For over a half century, the Alamo Improvement Association (AIA) has fought to preserve the beauty and tranquility of our community. It takes the work of volunteers who give freely of their time to identify and analyze trends, governmental actions, and events which may threaten or impair the values of the community we cherish. As our community has matured, larger and larger stands of native and non-native trees are being removed to make way for more dense development or larger homes on existing lots. AIA continues to communicate its concerns to County Planners, and coincidentally the County has confirmed that there is now a review of its existing tree ordinance. AIA and the Municipal Advisory Commission (MAC) have worked together to provide both advice and recommendations to our County planners. Because the protection of our “Green Canopy” is important to our Community and because there are policy differences with the County’s position on the scope of tree protection, the AIA Board recently decided to undertake an objective and randomized survey of the community to better gauge the opinion of the residents. We have done so, and here are the results: 1. Two-thirds of respondents said that a healthy tree canopy in Alamo on public and private property is “extremely important” to them. 2. Ninety-seven percent of respondents said that trees “improve the appearance of the community.” 3. Eighty-six percent of respondents said that it was important when looking for a new home that the neighborhood have healthy mature trees. 4. Over eighty percent of respondents would park farther from their destination in order to be able to park in the shade. 5. Over eighty percent of respondents agree or strongly agree that the County should educate the community about a new local tree ordinance, and that the County should consider the impact of new development and construction on the tree canopy
Neighborhood Watch is a community action and problem-solving program and one of the most effective means available for resolving issues within your community. Through organized problem-solving activities, your block can remove crime from your neighborhood and address any community issues that concern residents. The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff will be hosting meetings via Zoom. If you have any questions or are interested in finding out more information, please email the Community Services Unit at csu@so.cccounty.us.
Respondents offered comments that trees promote a healthy community environment and enhance the quality of our life through noise reduction, additional privacy, and improvement in our home and property values. In addition, there are benefits of cooling provided by tree shade, water runoff filtration provided by trees, shrubs and ground cover, and the increasing attention paid to benefits of carbon absorption by trees. AIA believes the results of this survey confirm our historical and on-going efforts to protect both the native and non-native tree canopy of our community. Please share your comments through an email to President@AlamoCA.org. Are you interested in learning more about tree care? You can find more information at www.treesaregood.com. This site has 18 informative brochures which cover many aspects of tree care.
LOCAL ROTARY CLUBS
Note: The tree survey was taken in September 2020 with 284 respondents, three quarters of whom were AIA members and all were homeowners. The margin of error for the survey is +/- 5.75%.
ALAMO CERTIFIED FARMER’S MARKET
There is a cornucopia of fall/winter fruits and vegetables at the Alamo Farmer’s Market. Stroll the market while listening to live music, and pick up some oranges, grapefruit, squash, persimmons, apples, lettuces, pomegranates, and more. Please check out the fresh fish from Dragon Baby Seafood (you can even order in advance by calling (669-237-5564) and Sunday pastries and more from Dore French Bakery in Brentwood. The Market is open Sundays year-round, from 9AM – 2PM, in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd., near Bank of America. There is plenty of free parking.
AIA MEMBERSHIP
Since 1955, Alamo residents have been joining the AIA and working in support of AIA’s mission statement, which is to “preserve the semi-rural character of Alamo.” Now celebrating its 65th year, AIA, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, has an outstanding history of serving our community. Visit www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of local interest, membership forms, and more.
KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY
The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets every Thursday at noon. Meetings are currently being held via Zoom. The Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville and many other exciting events. The Club has an interesting and informative weekly program speaker and specializes in fun and entertaining camaraderie. There is no charge for a guest lunch. For more information, call John Lineweaver at (925) 272-8207, email info@srvkiwanis.org, or visit www.srvkiwanis.org.
DANVILLE LIONS CLUB
The Danville Lions Club meets virtually at 6:30PM on the first and third Wednesdays of every month. Danville Lions Club raises funds and provide services to those in need, both locally and worldwide through fun and gratifying projects. Visit www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/danvilleca for details. For club information, contact Truman Howard at 925-820-1711. The Rotary Club of Alamo meets virtually on Wednesdays at 12:15PM. For information about the group visit alamorotary. org, email alamorotary@hotmail.com, or call 925-718-6601. The Danville Rotary Club meets virtually every Monday at noon. Learn more about the group at danvillerotary.org. If you are interested learning more about the Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary Club, contact Daniel Kodam at daniel@dsvrotary.com, call 925-336-0000, or visit dsvrotary. com. The Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley meets via Zoom every Wednesday night from 7PM-8:30PM. For more information, call Valerie Munoz at 925683-6310. You can also visit www.sanramonvalleyrotary.com. The Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/San Ramon meets via Zoom, on Wednesdays at 5:30PM-6:40PM. For more information, call 925-998-2924. Lastly, Rotary Club of San Ramon meets via Zoom every Thursday between noon and 1:15pm. For more information, visit sanramonrotary.org, email chris@gallagherwealth. com, or call 925-831-3043.
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FAILING TO PLAN CAN BE HEARTBREAKING
PLANNING FOR DEATH
MAKE CEMETERY ARRANGEMENTS WHILE YOU ARE ALIVE AND WELL By Ben Cohn, Lone Tree Cemetery
By Robert J. Silverman, Attorney at Law
Failing to have a valid, carefully drafted Will (preferably also a Living Trust) before you die often produces sad, unintended results. Aside from any extra time, cost and inconvenience, your loved ones often receive much less than you would want, if anything at all. As in every state, California has a default “intestacy” estate plan that governs how assets are distributed if one dies without a valid Will. In some cases, the law happens to comport with the intestate decedent’s wishes; in many cases, it does not. I have been referred at least a handful of cases during the past few years in which the decedent died without a Will (or Trust). I’ll give a few examples (names and key facts changed) below. Case #1: John and Jane were together for 25 years and married for the last 10 years. Neither ever had children. Before they married, John purchased the home they lived in. They considered it “their home” and they both thought that because they were married, if one of them died, the other would automatically own the home. At 53 years of age, John died unexpectedly from an infection following a routine procedure. John had always intended to establish a Will but never did so. The home was in John’s name only since he bought it before marriage. Given that it was his separate property, a Probate was required. Tragically here, the law of intestate succession dictates that the separate property of a married decedent without “issue” (children, grandchildren, etc.) goes one half to the surviving spouse and one half to the decedent’s next closest kin. John had no living parents; his closest kin were his two siblings, one of whom he despised. So, instead of John’s home going 100% to Jane as he intended, it went 50% to Jane and 25% to each of his siblings, including the one he hated. This had a profound and unexpected negative impact on Jane’s financial situation, not to mention her emotional wellbeing. Case #2: Mary and Mike had been domestic partners for more than 20 years but never married. Neither had children. They purchased a home together as “tenants-in-common,” each contributing 50% to the down-payment and to all future property-related expenses. Mary died suddenly, and she did not have a Will or Trust. Mary had siblings with whom she had not spoken since before she met Mike. But, under CA intestate succession rules, upon Mary’s death her 50% tenant-in-common interest in their home was to go to her next of kin, which happened to be these long-lost siblings. Mike had no legal right to any of Mary’s interest in the home, despite their decades-long committed relationship. Mike was not in a position to buy out Mary’s siblings, and thus, he was forced to sell the house with 50% of the proceeds going to Mary’s estranged siblings. Here, had Mike and Mary received appropriate legal advice when they bought the property, they would almost certainly had taken title as “joint tenants” (which carries with it the “right of survivorship”), such that Mike would have automatically owned Mary’s interest upon her death by operation of law. Even though they alternatively took title as “tenants-in-common”(which has no “right of survivorship”), Mike would still have been entitled to Mary’s half of the home if she had executed a simple Will providing that he would receive her 50% interest in the home (if not all of her assets) upon her death. Failing to plan is planning to fail… |Estate Planning | Trust Administration & Probate | Real Estate | Business| Please contact me to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. I am an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group, 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 125, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com.
This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors. Advertorial
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Death is a part of life you are certain to encounter. Are you prepared? You probably are…in some ways. • Have you made estate, financial, and insurance plans to benefit those who survive you? • Do your loved ones know your medical wishes so they won’t need to make difficult decisions? • Are your affairs in order so those around you can focus on what matters most when you die?
HAVE YOU MADE ARRANGEMENTS FOR HOW AND WHERE YOU WANT TO BE LAID TO REST?
While much of this planning is predicated on accepting our own death, we often overlook planning for our final resting place. What will happen to your body when you die? Who will be responsible? Will they know what to do? These questions can be discussed and pre-planning can occur when you are alive and well. • Do you want a casket burial, or to be cremated and placed in an urn? • Do you want a ground burial, or to be placed in a mausoleum or columbarium? • Do you want a grand memorialization or a modest resting place? By making your own cemetery arrangements “pre-need,” you can answer these questions, assume financial responsibly, and allow your family and friends to attend to one another upon your passing. Otherwise, making “atneed” arrangements will require their attention, energy, and money at an already difficult time. Death can be difficult to discuss. However, contemplating one’s own passing can be life-affirming and provide meaningful perspective about what matters most. By planning and making your own cemetery arrangements so others won’t have to, a sense of peace can be realized that you have taken one final measure to care for your loved ones. It’s never too late (or too early) to learn about handling the practical affairs of your death ahead of time and giving a truly selfless gift to those you love the most. Ben Cohn is an Advanced Planning Specialist / Family Service Counselor at Lone Tree Cemetery located at 24591 Fairview Avenue, Hayward, CA. For more information, call 510-584-9622 or email Ben@ LoneTreeCemetery.com. Advertorial
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PAGE 22 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
FACIAL REJUVENATION FOR THE HOLIDAYS
By Dr. Barbara Persons, MD, FACS
I was in the checkout line at a local drugstore when a gal next to me was talking on the phone. She said, “My sister needs a facelift and a laser peel.” She then looked over at me, and we both started laughing. You see, I was wearing scrubs with my John Muir Health-Walnut Creek Medical Center badge saying Barbara L. Persons, MD, FACS Plastic Surgeon. We went on to laugh some more and also to talk about the basic concepts of facial rejuvenation while checking out. You would not believe how many men and women around you have had facial rejuvenation surgery. When facial rejuvenation is performed correctly, no one will ever know. It’s not your great grandmother’s windswept look or the slick advertisements of a style that does not last and has many complications. My patients seek the five elements of facial rejuvenation intuitively without knowing the terms. They seek improvement not out of vanity or because they want to look 22-years-old again. They want to be perceived as naturally vibrant, happy, confident, and whole. As a natural healer and hypnotherapist who came to me for eyelid rejuvenation said, “Our bodies are the vessels through which we project our personalities.” It is okay to want to look better. Today, however, in my opinion, we are at times using fillers, Botox, facials, and light therapies because we are afraid to go ahead and fix issues with minor surgery. Five elements come together to create a youthful face (with naturally balanced bone structure and volume, skin and fat in the right position, no sun damage, and minimal scarring), fix a broken face, or create the beautiful look the patient envisions. The five elements are structure, volume, support, stress expressions, and skin. Structure: The temples, cheeks, chin, and nose should form a pleasant balance. We lose bone volume with age, especially in women, which can lead to a weak jawline, loss of cheek projection, sad-looking eyes, temporal hollowing, and recessed nasal folds. Volume: The overall volume of the face is reduced, and temples begin to hollow. The rounded curves and heart shape of the upper face volume give way
www.yourmonthlypaper.com | Instagram: @Alamoanddanvilletoday | #atdtnews to a more squared look as the volume is both lost and “moves south.” Some patients may want to consider fat injections, which use fat harvested from the patient’s own body which can then be re-injected to enhance facial fullness, fill creases, or build up shallow contours. Support: The ligaments of the face, superficial muscular aponeurotic system fascia beneath the skin, and deep layers of the skin sag with age. It can cause heavy eyes, tear troughs, sagging cheeks, nasal folds, marionette lines, jowls, and extra neck skin. Stress Expressions: These include forehead creases, glabella eleven lines, crow’s feet, bunny nose, smokers’ lines, and the downturn of the mouth. A balanced approach to addressing these issues is vital. Skin: Pigmentation, fine lines, and wrinkles, red spots, scars, and laxity. These signs of aging are especially noticeable around the eyes and mouth. To start the process of facial rejuvenation, I examine my patients’ faces. I immediately see what procedures will create or recreate the beautiful normal that they desire. Many of you know I have had facial surgery following a nearly fatal accident. At 25, I was hit by a semi-truck whose driver had a seizure from drinking and not taking his seizure medication. After 18 surgeries, bone grafts, implants, titanium plates, and screws, I still work on the five elements every year. I want a beautiful normal. I have personal experience with the products I use on my patients. When I see you, I will be honest about what will make the most significant and excellent improvement in your face over time, with the least risk, and within your budget. I will make sure you are within your comfort zone, doing what I do best, which is to perform surgery and procedures. Using my hands, my heart, and my artistic sense, our private surgery center in Lafayette is one of my most perfect places on this earth where I can make a real positive difference in your life. We are closely following local and state government guidelines to implement additional measures of safety for our patients and staff. We are also offering COVID-19 antibody tests with results in as little as 10 minutes. Our current hours of operation at our Lafayette location are Monday-Friday, 9AM-5PM, and our Brentwood location is open on Saturdays, 8AM-11AM. Barbara L Persons, MD, FACS is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc., located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She can be reached at 925-283-4012 or drpersons@personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial
Watershed continued from front page
member organizations meet every other month to communicate concerns, suggest projects, and evaluate relevant experience. The Executive Committee meets the alternate months to determine how best to address issues and implement solutions. The Vision Statement adopted June 2, 2016, begins: “We envision a Walnut Creek watershed where the creeks are visible and thriving natural assets that join our communities into a unified whole.” The creeks are part of the habitat corridors for indigenous plants and animals connecting the slopes of Mount Diablo and Las Trampas Ridge to the marshes and shoreline of Suisun Bay. Formation of the Contra Costa County Flood Control and Water Conservation District in 1951 fostered coordinated management of area waterways. At that time, the population of the entire San Ramon Valley was 4,630. Walnut Creek residents numbered 2,420. Fishing and swimming in the creeks were popular pastimes. But floods became a major problem between 1955 and 1962. The April 1958 flood inundated 1,000 Walnut Creek homes and 100 stores. Water rushed through Pleasant Hill and Martinez. The Army Corps of Engineers proposed a system of concrete channels, drop structures, and levees. Construction completed in 1971 required removal of existing vegeta- Giant Reed, Arundo donax, chokes the life out of a riparian habitat tion. Invasive weeds took over. in Alamo. Photo by Lisa Damerel. Salmon and steelhead, once plentiful in the waterways, vanished. Pressure from concerned citizens led to the Walnut Creek City Council’s adoption in 1993 of the Creeks Restoration and Trails Master Plan. Members of the task force responsible for authoring the plan formed Friends of the Creeks (FOC) in 1994 to work with the city on implementation. Jim Hale’s 1996 survey of wildlife within the ecosystem lists 59 bird species, 43 butterfly species, 10 of fish, 10 of aquatic invertebrates, seven of amphibians, seven of reptiles, and 19 of mammals. By the time Beverly Lane, Sally German, and Linda Ballantine established Friends of San Ramon Creek (FSRC) in 2012, FOC had years of experience combating invasive plants, including the extremely aggressive Giant Reed, Arundo donax, and replacing them with appropriate natives. Lesley Hunt, FOC President, recalls walking with Beverly to identify stands of Arundo and offer advice on its eradication. San Ramon Creek is upstream from the channels tended by FOC. Arundo breaks off upstream and takes root downstream, making collaboration a high priority. Brought to America from Europe in the mistaken belief that it was suitable for stabilizing creek banks, Arundo can grow four inches a day to a height
Lafayette volunteers including then mayor Mike Anderson restore Lafayette Creek habitat with plugs of native plants. Photo by Lisa Damerel.
See Watershed continued on page 24
Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News | editor@yourmonthlypaper.com December 2020 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 23
YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST By Linda Michaelis RD, MS TAKE CARE OF YOURS CHILD’S NUTRITION DURING THESE DIFFICULT TIMES
Unfortunately, as COVID continues, I am getting more referrals from pediatricians and concerned calls from parents regarding their children’s weight gain, high cholesterol, and even high blood pressure. Instilling a family nutrition plan which takes into account decreased physical activity and time we have to prepare meals is a great way to help with this. Here are some popular suggestions to be included in your plans. Breakfast. Breakfast should consist of protein and fiber along with a serving of bread to keep their attention span high. Kids generally like scrambled eggs with diced ham, bacon, or turkey. Always add a serving of veggies like spinach, onions, and mushrooms to the eggs. Toasted whole wheat English muffins can be served alongside, but serve them without butter. This, by far, is the best breakfast for nutrition and least amount of calories. Another popular breakfast are pancakes. Purchase Kodiak brand pancake mix available at Safeway, Target, and Costco. The pancakes have the equivalent of 2 oz. of protein per three small pancakes. A batch can be made on Sunday and reheated during the week. The protein portion can be enhanced by adding egg whites or an egg and milk. Adding berries and a drizzle of maple syrup make them delicious! I discourage adding butter or oil which add many extra calories without a lot more pleasure. Kids often consume over 500 calories in a bowl of sugar-laden cereal with milk. I recommend Quaker Oatmeal Squares cereal which is like the cold version of oatmeal. An even better choice is Kashi Go Lean cereal which can be mixed with their favorite cereal. Overnight oatmeal is something else to try. Soak oatmeal in almond milk, and add your favorite low-sugar yogurt and berries. The mixture literally “cooks” overnight in the refrigerator. Mid-morning and afternoon snacks. The best snacks combine protein and fiber. Some popular suggestions include “ants on a log” (peanut butter on celery with sprinkled raisins), a pouch of tuna as a topping for cucumbers or tomatoes, 2 oz. nitrate free beef jerky along with a cutie or an apple, low-sugar yogurt like Siggis, Oikos Triple Zero, or Fage plain yogurt with added berries. Many kids like cottage cheese with applesauce and cinnamon, 1 oz. packages of nuts and a fruit, ham or turkey wrapped around a kosher pickle, bean soups, a veggie tray with red pepper, jicama, raw string beans and cucumbers with a sprinkle of salt and rotating dips. Avoid buying large packages of items like potato chips because they are too tempting. I also discourage buying granola, Clif, or other bars or cheese sticks or cheese in general because kids overeat them, mistakenly believing they are healthy. Lunch. Lunch should also include protein along with vegetables to keep the brain active. Sheltering at home allows for better timing of lunch as school lunches are commonly scheduled too early or too late in the day. With colder weather, warm lunches should be more inviting and filling as our body requires more calories to keep warm. I recommend making lunches the largest meal of the day to prevent overeating at dinner time by excessively hungry kids. Some popular dinner suggestions include shredded chicken cooked in salsa verde or enchilada sauce The chicken can be used to make tacos with soft tortillas or lettuce wraps. Kids like meatballs cooked in the Instant pot and served with broccoli and rice. They also enjoy turkey burgers that are reheated and served on English muffins with carrots, celery, and ranch dressing on the side. Make chili with ground turkey, and add beans and more vegetables than usual. Leftover meatloaf also makes a great lunch. Serve with string beans and a potato on the side. Frozen vegetables have proven to provide excellent nutrition as they are flash frozen at their peak of ripeness when all of their nutrients are available. Dinner. Now that everyone is home and we can eat more balanced meals during the day, hunger should be lessened at night. Now, at dinner time, we do not need the usual large serving of protein. We should focus more on vegetables and whole grains. Let the family enjoy a small dessert as long as half the dinner plate is full of vegetables and/or a salad. Dessert. For dessert during the cold weather months, I suggest hot cocoa, baked apples, or portion-sized treats such as Oreo Thins. Please feel free to contact me if you feel that you need an objective nutritionist to create a successful plan. Nutritional counseling can be covered by health insurance companies including Aetna, ABMG, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Cigna, and UHC. I am happy to call on your behalf and see what coverage your plan offers. Please visit my website www.LindaRD.com to learn more about my services. Feel free to email me at lifeweight1@yahoo.com, or call me at 925-855-0150 to tell me about your nutritional concerns and see how I may help you. Advertorial
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Mobility Matters is a nonprofit agency that provides free rides for ambulatory seniors and veterans who cannot take other forms of transportation. The group is looking for volunteers that are willing to help out the community by driving homebound seniors and veterans to medical appointments. Most volunteers drive once every week or two. Please contact David Benet at (925)284-2215 or david@mobilitymatterscc.com if you are interested in more information about volunteer opportunities. You can learn more about Mobility Matters at www. mobilitymatterscc.com.
TELECARE CONNECTS WITH THE HOMEBOUND
Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, have been making daily reassurance calls, Monday through Friday, to seniors and the homebound in our community. Clients can anticipate a friendly exchange of ideas with trained volunteers who provide high quality, consistent communications. If a client cannot be reached, family members will be notified. This service is free! Additional TeleCare activities include an annual holiday party, and they also receive greeting cards from the Assisteens, an auxiliary where tweens and teens learn to participate in a community service at a young age. Make that call to get you or someone you know connected! For more information, call 925-934-0901. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s other philanthropic programs, please visit www.assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley.
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PAGE 24 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
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Watershed continued from page 22
of up to thirty feet, crowding out all other vegetation and presenting a dangerous fire hazard as it chokes the life out of riparian habitats. WCWC President Bob Simmons, Lesley Hunt, and Beverly Lane were among a handful of people participating in the initial informal 2011 discussion that led to formation of WCWC in 2012. Simmons writes: “From our very humble beginnings, the Council has attracted highly skilled and interested volunteers. We are beginning to make a difference in the watershed, not just in the removal of invasive plants and the restoration of portions of our creeks, but in the awareness that creeks are important to our quality of life.” Simmons highlights a quotation from Loren Eisley’s The Immense Journey: “If there is magic on this planet, it is contained in water.” Simmons continues, “I think about all the places where we have placed our creeks, which used to be the lifeblood of our communities, into culverts and concrete structures, and removed the magic from our world. The sad thing is that kids don’t have as much chance to experience the magic. For me, success will be when kids will again have a chance to enjoy a healthy creek rather than be told to ‘Stay out, stay alive.’” Alan Bade co-founded Friends of Pleasant Hill Creeks in 2017 with Wendy Gollop, Heather Rosmarin, and Adena Rosmarin. Partnering with Mount Diablo Audubon Society in a monthly Grayson Creek bird count, they’ve already tallied 95 species of resident and migratory birds. Bade comments on the significance of quantifying avian dependence on the creek: “It’s hard to ask decision makers to value and protect a resource many considered a drainage ditch unless you can demonstrate that even in it’s altered state, it is valuable habitat.” Dick Heron, who shares FSRC’s presidency with Beverly Lane, recalls: “One of our volunteers, Mike Ammann, suggested that there must be an organized approach to Arundo control that would be more effective. To that time (late 2017), we had been working on smallish patches on property that had involved owners.” Heron brought Mike Ammann, Mike Anciaux, and Lyn Arscott with him to the WCWC brainstorming session that resulted in the establishment of the Arundo Removal and Walnut Creek volunteers plant plugs of natives where Arundo once dominated. Photo by Lisa Damerel. Restoration Team the following year. Lisa Damerel, Watershed Conservation Coordinator for the Contra Costa Resource Conservation District, writes: “When the Council recognized the Arundo donax problem in the Walnut Creek Watershed, it could easily WCWC stakeholders include: have shied away from the issue, especially considering the scope. Instead, the Non-Profit Interest Groups: Diablo Valley Fly Fishermen, Friends Council followed through with the creation of the ARRT to prioritize tackling of Concord Creeks (being formed), Friends of the Creeks, Friends of the problem directly. It is heartening to see stakeholders from many organizaPleasant Hill Creeks, Friends of San Ramon Creek, Greenbelt Alliance, tions work together to address Arundo. For a relatively new group, the ARRT John Muir Land Trust, Mount Diablo Audubon Society, Mount Diablo has completed an impressive number of removal and restoration projects, and Interpretive Association, Save Mount Diablo, Sustainable Contra Costa, mobilized over one hundred volunteers to do so.” Sustainable Walnut Creek, Walnut Creek Open Space Identification and mapping of Arundo stands throughout the watershed began Government Agencies: Central Contra Costa Sanitary District, with Anciaux employing GIS software to “fly” over the area from his desk. With Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority, Contra Costa County trees blocking the view in many places, confirmation of locations had to be done by Flood Control and Water Conservation District, Contra Costa Resource walking the creeks. Anciaux notes: “As the team did this, they found that some of Conservation District the possible stands were not Arundo, and they found more stands that were Arundo. Municipalities: City of Concord, East Bay Municipal Utility District, When completed, there were over 250 stands of Arundo identified, and we are conEast Bay Regional Park District, City of Lafayette, City of Martinez, City fident that there are another 50-100 that we haven’t located yet.” The map is updated of Orinda, City of Pleasant Hill, City of San Ramon, City of Walnut as removal work is done, indicating stands treated and stands yet to be tackled. Creek, Town of Danville, Town of Moraga. The 2018 ARRT brochure explains what Arundo is and why it threatens the entire watershed. ARRT is still experimenting with the most effective means of eradication. Digging out all of the rhizomes and replacing the earth is not feasible with large stands. Cut stalks easily regenerate, even if covered by black plastic. Immediately painting or directly spraying cut stalks with an approved herbicide effectively targets the single species. Re-emerging shoots require another treatment. ARRT is evaluating the efficacy of covering cut stalks with geothermal cloth to prevent regrowth. Planting plugs of appropriate native plants occurs once Arundo removal is complete. ARRT works with The Restoration Trust and volunteers from local creek groups. Many seedlings have come from Elder Creek Farms. FOC works with Native Here Nursery. Visibility is a key factor in ecosystem restoration. Views of the water as well as the wildlife encourage residents to appreciate the creeks as a valuable resource. WCWC tackles many other issues including trash clean-up. Although full trash capture (FTC) devices have a role, Simmons and Damerel explain that volunteers collect trash caught in vegetation along the banks that never finds its way downstream to mechanical collectors. Damerel highlights the importance of volunteer involvement in generating behavioral change. “When people face the trash in our natural areas head on and help to clean it up, they are much more likely to think about where the trash goes and change their habits.” Great Egret is one of 95 bird species grateful FSRC has run weekly projects this year with small cadres of volunteers despite COVID-19 issues. An article focusing for restoration of Pleasant Hill's Grayson on their projects will run next spring. Check opportunities to help at wcwatershed.org/friends-of-san-ramon-creek. Creek. Photo by Heather Rosmarin. For information on WCWC, visit www.wcwatershed.org.
FREE CONSULTATIONS TO FAMILY CAREGIVERS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED CONCERNS
Since Hope Hospice has had to temporarily suspend their Living With Dementia group classes for family caregivers they are launching a new video conference service that is, at this time, complimentary to the public in our area.“Many of the family caregivers who attend our classes find themselves in the caregiver role unexpectedly and without resources,” says program manager Jill Smith, RN. “The face-to-face classes have helped these individuals tremendously in learning about the changes to expect in their loved one and how to adjust techniques as the disease progresses.” Zoom conferencing will be used to conduct private consultations with family members who have questions on specific challenges they are facing in caring for a loved one living with dementia. Submit a meeting request via email to jills@hopehospice.com or call (925) 829-8770. Email is preferred. Learn more at www.HopeHospice.com.
Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News | editor@yourmonthlypaper.com December 2020 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 25
RESTLESS LEGS KEEPING YOU UP AT NIGHT?
By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC W H AT E X A C T LY IS RESTLESS LEG SYNDROME?
Restless legs syndrome (RLS) is a neurological disorder characterized by throbbing, pulling, creeping, or other unpleasant sensations in the legs and an uncontrollable, and sometimes overwhelming, urge to move them. Symptoms occur primarily at night when a person is relaxing or at rest, and can increase in severity during the night. Moving the legs relieves the discomfort, which can range in severity from uncomfortable or irritating to painful. The most distinctive or unusual aspect of RLS is that lying down and trying to relax activates the symptoms. Most people with RLS have difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep. Left untreated, the condition causes exhaustion and daytime fatigue. Many people with RLS report that their job, personal relations, and activities of daily living are strongly affected as a result of their sleep deprivation.
WHO’S AT RISK FOR RLS? • • • • • • • •
Individuals with nutrient deficiencies Individuals on antidepressant medication Pregnant women Frequent blood donors Those who have undergone gastric surgery Chronic smokers and alcoholics Individuals under chronic stress Children with ADD/ADHD
RLS DRUGS AND THEIR SIDE EFFECTS
The drugs approved by the FDA for treatment of RLS are Mirapex, Neupro, and Requip. These medications (originally developed for treatment of Parkinson’s disease) work by making dopamine more available to receptors. These medications can have side effects from nausea, depression, vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, and impulse control disorders. RLS will certainly affect quality of life but so do these other severe side effects. Research is now revealing the significant role of nutrition and other natural approaches to RLS.
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RLS has been linked to low levels of dopamine. The neurotransmitter, dopamine is an important messenger in the brain, helping to regulate much of our body’s functions, including thinking, behavior, mood, and especially in the case of RLS – rest and movement. Low levels of dopamine can trigger the urge to move our limbs, as found in RLS. Both iron and folate play key roles in the production of dopamine. Magnesium and zinc levels also have an impact on RLS. I personally believe in running specific blood tests in order to zero in on what is deficient in each individual to ensure the most effective outcome. Micronutrient testing allows a person to know exactly what to eat and specifically what to supplement in order to support the healing of their RLS.
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Conditions like restless legs syndrome can significantly interrupt daily life. At Align, we work to figure out what the body needs, and we provide that in a course of treatment. Through natural techniques based in science; such as specialty lab testing, personalized supplementation, low force chiropractic to restore nerve function, and laser therapy to speed up the healing process; we can correct the critical imbalances causing the RLS. There is nothing more gratifying than helping a patient resolve an issue utilizing natural therapies that give them their life back. Dr. Niele Maimone, DC is the owner of Align Healing Center in Danville.For more information or to set up a complimentary consult, call 925-362-8283 or visit www. alignhealingcenter.com. Advertorial
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COUNT Y HEALTH INFORMATION RESOURCES
Below are some resources to get updated shelter-in-place information in Contra Costa County. • Visit coronavirus.cchealth.org. The site provides the most updated and comprehensive information and answers to the most frequently asked questions about COVID-19 and the County Health Officer’s order to shelter at home. • There is additional resource information of all kinds on the County website at contracosta.ca.gov. • Call 1-844-729-8410. It is an information line to answer questions you may have about the order. The line operates 8AM to 5PM each day. • Email Supervisor Andersen at supervisorandersen@bos. cccounty.us or call her office at (925) 957-8860. The Supervisor’s office is closed to visitors but is able to respond by phone or email to questions you have that cannot be answered at the County Health website or information line above.
PAGE 26 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • December 2020
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THE EYE OPENER
HAPPY HOLIDAYS 2020 AND THE YEAR IN REVIEW By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry
We have come to the end of a year none of us expected or planned. Between COVID-19 wreaking havoc to the country’s health, schools, and economy, along with wildfires and a contentious election, I think we are all ready to put this year behind us. Even though the early part of 2021 will most likely be more of the same, we all need to take stock of this year so we can use that information to move forward. At this time of year, I usually like to go over the additions we have made to the office; however, most of those plans did not come to fruition. Being closed for two months and on a reduced schedule since our return in May, we are just trying to keep everyone healthy and the office open. However, an advantage of having some extra time that we normally don’t have is we were able to make some administrative improvements to the office that have made the patient experience better since we were able to reopen. To enhance the patient experience, we have implemented two-way text, online forms, and enhanced sterilization procedures to help thwart the spread of all communicable diseases, including COVID-19. Our two-way text program has made office-to-patient interactions much easier. We are able to communicate with our patients to let them know their appointment details, and when their materials are ready to pick up at the office, and the patient can let us know when they have arrived for their appointment so we can let them know when it is safe to come up to the office. This procedure has been well received by our patients as their preferred means of communication, and it is easy for our team members to monitor the text strand while they are at their workstations. Our online portal has made patient registration much easier since patients do not have to sit in the office and fill out forms. They are now able to complete paperwork through their computer or phone. The completed forms get automatically
CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY PROGRAMS
updated into their patient record, so this process also reduces paper use. Since we have updated forms and COVID-specific policies, all patients are required to update their record; but the process has been streamlined for everyone. Our sterilization procedures are posted in the office and on our website. Every surface, tried-on glasses, and any point of contact is disinfected after each patient interaction. In addition to these cleaning protocols, our mandatory mask wearing, hand washing, and social distancing requirements have made our office as safe as possible for our staff and patients. We hope these strictly-adhered-to procedures will protect us all from COVID-19 as well as other communicable conditions such as the common cold and flu. As the holiday season approaches, it is important to remember to exhaust your flexible spending accounts (FSA) before the end of the year. The gov11/21/2020 Word Search Generator :: Create your ownexpense. printable word fin ernment has a wide range of specified costs that qualify as a medical Included in that list is any vision correction device such as glasses, computer glasses, contact lenses, and sunglasses. If your purchase is made by the end of here to print this page without adverti the year, it will count on your 2020 Click account balance. If you have a pop-up blocker, disable it or override it by holding the Ctrl button We appreciate our patients working with us during this difficult time. Our Printing tips: are all new procedures, disinfection policies, and appointment requirements You might find adjusting the page setup on your computer (changing the margins, header/foote necessary for everyone’s health and are required better to remain open. We have a printout for some puzzles. great community which understands the health crisis and has been more than OR, you can go backus and change your puzzle settings change the grid size, size, or rep willing to work with within the confines of this to “new normal. ” We allfont yearn puzzle. for things to go back to the way they were so we safely can go to school, restaurants, movie theaters, sporting events, and places of worship. Until we can all safely return to our normal lives, we are doing our best to maintain our office Create a new word search as a safe place for your eyecare needs. Our office extends holiday wishes and a prosperous 2021 to all of our patients and the local community. MAKE YOUR OWN WORKSHEETS ONLINE @ WWW.ATOZTEACH Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at (925) 820NAME:_______________________________ DATE:____ 6622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165 in Alamo. For more information, visit www.alamooptometry.com, and join in on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @Alamo Optometry. Advertorial
Word Search answers from page 19
December
Cancer Support Community San Francisco Bay Area (CSC) now offers its Y P M A P F R S T F I G H K H I V entire range of support services, educational workshops, and exercise and S R C S A S C N V R P G A J A J R creative arts classes online, entirely for free. Anyone affected by cancer— patients, survivors, caregivers, family members, the bereaved—can now benefit B E H K G N T O D D X Z N P R Q A from these programs no matter where they live, without having to travel to C D Y H B I G W N V K T U I O A T the organization’s community center in Walnut Creek. H I O B N A C M F W R C K W N C N “Cancer doesn’t just affect us physically,” said Rob Tufel, CSC’s Executive R C I G O R I A A E E I K Q E Q A Director. “It affects us psychologically, financially, and socially, increasing I O W T M T B N E W K R A A M X S stress and feelings of isolation. With the crisis of COVID-19, cancer patients S L M P J Y Z T D D C D H H Q V F and their families are especially affected. They’re suffering treatment delays, T X Q S R A R G P K A V N H F N U fears about compromised immune systems, uncertainty over their finances. M M E L A A W A E G R N A N M L D Perhaps worst of all, they’re more isolated than ever—many are unable to get A C H E I E P I C O C O A L H O G to the hospital, while being physically separated from friends and loved ones. And that’s where Cancer Support Community helps. Now we can help even S R H L R G G I V G T B X Z C D E more people, no matter where they are—in their home, visiting a loved one, D A T E D T H N N Y U P S I R A K or from their hospital bed during treatment.” U F P L B T K T I E N K I B I J O CSC doesn’t just provide workshops and counseling; it builds bridges A T O O A L A A S L C G C Q O X R between people and creates a community of help and healing, where people Z S N P L W C P O Y O O X R H V N facing cancer can get support, advice, education, and a deep sense of belongH E U H L S W T G D O R N O C X A ing and being understood. Research has shown that cancer patients who use V X H T E L P Z N K L O A E Z P M programs like those provided by CSC are better able to manage their stress Q L K R T W V H I T Q O M C S W E and anxiety, feel more in control of their treatment, and express a higher X Q P O B B M E M U M X H T L C N quality of life. As it has been for 30 years, CSC’s programs remain entirely free of charge, P C W N D F S R W R E A T H S F T funded by charitable donations. The calendar of programs can be found X A D Q G W O N D E R L A N D G U on the organization’s website at www.cancersupport.net. For those new to P D G T B Z E S V V X W T V K C M Cancer Support Community, please contact Margaret Stauffer at mstauffer@ cancersupport.net to learn how to access CSC’s free virtual programs. Celebrating 30 years in the East Bay, Cancer Support Community provides comprehensive, integrative care— including counseling, support groups, nutrition training, exercise classes, and patient education programs—for people with cancer, their caregivers, and their families. Their evidence-based services enable cancer patients to partner with their medical teams to manage their treatment and recovery most effectively, increase their chances for survival, reduce their chances of recurrence, and provide for the highest possible quality of life. No one is ever turned away, and all of their services are always provided free of charge.
Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News | editor@yourmonthlypaper.com December 2020 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 27
COMMON COVID SKIN PROBLEMS
By Jerome Potozkin, MD
Oh, what a year 2020 has been! As December rolls in, many of us can’t wait for this year to be over. The biggest thing impacting all of our lives in 2020 is the global pandemic. As I write this article, we have just learned that an effective vaccine may be on the immediate horizon. That is great news. There is hope. As a dermatologist, I have learned of some skin-specific findings in COVID-19 patients. However, we have been seeing several skin problems not caused by the virus itself but rather by how we have had to adapt to the virus. As a board-certified dermatologist, acne is one of the most common problems that brings someone to the office. During the pandemic, we have had to adapt by wearing masks to prevent the transmission of the virus. This has resulted in a rise of mask-induced acne, also referred to as “maskne.” However, this problem is nothing new to dermatology. Prior to the pandemic, it had a different name “acne mechanica.” Acne mechanica is acne caused by, or worsened by, rubbing or touching. There are solutions to this problem. If you wear a cloth mask, be sure to wash it. Silicone mask brackets are also widely available. These brackets keep the mask off your face. They come in different size and shapes and can easily be found online. The mask brackets also prevent fogging of glasses. You may also use topical OTC acne medications for treating acne mechanica. If these don’t work, seek help from a board-certified dermatologist. During the pandemic, frequent hand-washing has been recommended to minimize the transmission of the virus. It is recommended that we wash our hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and lukewarm water. For some people, this has caused the problem of dry, cracked, itchy, and even sometimes painful skin. If you have a tendency to get irritation from frequent hand-washing, then use a moisturizing cream or ointment after patting your skin dry.
Moisturizing with creams that contain mineral oil or petrolatum tend to be most effective. Seek creams that are fragrance-free and dye-free as those are most likely to sooth the skin without causing irritation. If you are using hand sanitizer, it would be helpful to apply moisturizer immediately after the sanitizer dries. Some people might need to seek the care of a dermatologist who can prescribe topical corticosteroid creams or prescription strength moisturizers. This has been a tough year for all of us. I hope that you can find peace and joy with your family this holiday season. I am hopeful that 2021 will be a better year. It has been an honor to serve the community during this challenging time. Our staff looks forward to serving the community in the better times that are on the horizon. Dr. Jerome Potozkin is a Board Certified Dermatologist specializing in minimally and non-invasive cosmetic procedures. The practice is accepting new patients and can be reached at (925) 838-4900 and www. MyBeautyMd.com. Advertorial
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LOCAL HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS 2020
BERKELEY
• Through Dec. 20: Artisans Holiday Open Studios. Learn more at www.berkeleyartisans.com. • Dec. 4-13: The Light. Roller coaster ride of laughter, romance, and despair that begins with a surprise proposal gift. Learn more at www.shotgunplayers.org. • Dec. 12-13, 19-20, 23-24 Annual Telegraph Avenue Holiday Street Fair. Learn more at www. facebook.com/events/647369229270524. • Dec. 20: The Nutcracker online with Berkeley Ballet Theater. Learn more via their Facebook page @BerkeleyBalletTheater.
CONCORD
• Through Dec. 24: Santa’s Flight Academy & Photos. Sunvalley Shopping Center, 1 Sunvalley Mall. Reservations required. Sign up at shopsunvalley.com/pages/sfa. • Dec. 15: ‘Succulents & Sips’ Wreath-Making at The Veranda 2001-2003 Diamond Blvd. Choose from two, socially distanced seatings. Sign up at www.facebook.com/events/642350549981116.
DANVILLE
• Through Dec. 10: ‘Santa's Mailbox.’ Get a letter fom the North Pole! Learn more at www. danville.ca.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=1232. • Dec. 12: Elf Holiday Drive-In Movie. Held at 222 W. El Pintado. Learn more at www.danville. ca.gov/Calendar.aspx?EID=1221. • Through December - ‘I Pledge to Support Local’ and explore Danville’s Tree Trail while shopping and dining downtown. Learn more at www.danville.ca.gov/livelocally.
LAFAYETTE
PLEASANTON
• Dec. 4-27: Holiday Lights Tour Participating residences, Pleasanton. Learn more at www. hometownholiday.com. • Through Dec. 24: Santa Visits & Photos at Stoneridge Mall. Reservations required. Sign up at tinyurl.com/StoneridgeSanta. • Dec. 6: Wreath Making At The Barn. For all ages. Registration required. Sunol Visitor Center, 1895 Geary Road, Sunol. Sign up at tinyurl.com/ SunolWreath Dec. 11: Tri-Valley Cultural Jews Virtual OAKLAND • Through Jan 17: Zoo's 'Glowfari' Holiday Hanukkah Celebration. With menorah lighting Lantern Festival. A mile-long, dazzling stroll. and dreidel fun. Contact Jamie at culturaljews@ Oakland Zoo, 9777 Golf Links Road. Buy tickets gmail.com for registration link. at www.oaklandzoo.org/programs-and-events/ SAN RAMON glowfari. • Dec.10, 7PM - Virtual Jim Brickman 'Comfort & • Dec. 2-Jan. 3: Holiday Walk-Thru Wonder- Joy' Concert. - www.jimbrickman.com/san-ramon land. Dunsmuir Hellman Historic Estate, 2960 Peralta Oaks Court. Buy tickets at tinyurl.com/ WALNUT CREEK • Through Dec. 20: Holiday 'Garden Of WalkThroughWonderland. d'Lights' 2020: Ruth Bancroft Garden 1552 • Dec. 5: Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir Bancroft Road. Sign up at www.ruthbancroftAnnual Holiday Concert. "We can still kick off the holiday season together!" Learn more at tinyurl. garden.org/lights2020. • Dec. 4-6: Downtown Holiday Stroll and com/OIGCConcert. • Dec. 18-30: 'Fairy Winterland': Children's ugly sweater contest! Learn more at tinyurl.com/ Fairyland, 699 Bellevue Ave. Buy tickets at chil- WCHolidayStroll. • Dec.15-23: 'Visit to North Pole' - Exclusive drensfairyland.brushfire.com/fairyland/483891. • Dec. 20: Nutcracker Stay-At-Home Matinee. visit with Santa & Mrs. Claus. Lesher Center for Online via Oakland Ballet Company. Find more the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive. Sign up at tinyurl.com/ VisittoNorthPole. info at oaklandballet.org/wp. • Through Dec. 25: Town Hall Theatre’s A Christmas Carol - Free. New episode every Friday. Visit www.townhalltheatre.com/christmas-carol. • Dec. 6: ‘Light Up The Town’ Chanukah Experience. Savenger hunt and more. Chabad of Lamorinda, 3574 Mount Diablo Blvd. Registration required. Visit www.facebook.com/events/858818068286549. • Dec. 16: Zoom Family Menorah Competition: Contra Costa JCC. Learn more at tinyurl.com/ FamilyMenorah.