2022 DECEMBER ~ Alamo Today & Danville Today News

ALL ABOARD! EUROPEAN TRAIN ENTHUSIASTS MAKE THE HOLIDAY SEASON MEMORABLE AT ALAMO PLAZA

By Jody Morgan

Nostalgic for adults and magical for children, the huge HO scale layout created by the Modular Group of the San Francisco Bay Area Chapter of European Train Enthusiasts (ETE) gives everyone a chance to journey through a miniature European-themed land scape. Each day exhibition visitors are treated to a wide selection of operating locomotives, freight, and passenger trains from a variety of European countries running through intricately detailed villages, towns, and countryside.

Co-sponsored by the Alamo Improvement Association (AIA), the display opened in Alamo Plaza Unit 170-A on November 25th and continues Wednesdays through Sundays 10AM-5PM through December 31st, with the addition of Monday, December 26th and Tuesday, December 27th. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

Holiday Fun for the Whole Family

Since Danville resident Stretch Andersen established the Module Group in 1992, the now approximately 35 members have perfect ed a system permitting them to match the size of a layout to the event space. Members build, maintain, and store their own 5’ x 2’ module sections, each fitted with folding legs that put the track at a 44” height. The interchangeable modules can be fit together in multiple ways and set up rapidly. Curved corner sections enable the group to configure the display in many shapes and sizes. Layouts scaled from 900 to 2,100 square feet are currently possible.

Asked how he became interested in European trains, Andersen recalls, “When I was 5-years-old, my dad bought me a train to run under the Christmas tree. Marklin trains from Europe were available in the local store. By the time I was in high school, the trains were packed away. When I was 25, I moved into my own first home here in Danville. I thought my friends would get a kick out of seeing a train around my Christmas tree.

EASING THE RABBIT SHELTER CRISIS: ADOPTION & VOLUNTEERING

By Alamo resident Desiree Gatto & Joan Wegner, President of East Bay Rabbit Rescue

Pets are being surren dered at an alarming rate to Bay Area rescues and shelters. The need for finding homes for rabbits brings me back to when our family adopted our first bunny. I thought having a rabbit would be like having a guinea pig or hamster - a pet that would enjoy its life in a hutch and allow us to pet it once in a while. My eldest son was 12 at the time and had researched rabbits. Little did I know a rabbit would steal my heart.

We adopted our first bunny, Tansy, from East Bay Rabbit Rescue. Only two and a half pounds, she was full of personality and spunk. Even our dog liked her, and that’s saying a lot because Corgis like to believe they’re the only animal on the planet. I wasn’t sure how it would go, but it was surprisingly easy to integrate

DANVILLE COMMUNITY

BAND CONCERT

The Danville Community Band presents this year’s annual holiday concert, “Christmas Party!”

Join the Band on Saturday, December 17th in the 400-seat Performing Arts Center at San Ramon Valley High School, located at 501 Danville Blvd. in Danville. The show begins at 3PM

This year’s program features a fun selection of festive tunes including “Secret Agent Santa,” “Mary's Boy Child,” “The Eighth Candle,” and more! The show will wrap up with the ever-popular “Sleigh Ride”!

Admission is free, and donations are gratefully accepted. Face coverings are suggested.

Come “party” with the band!

Model trains running on a beautiful European themed layout

Klaus Kutz and Glenn Randle set up. Photo by S. Pinson.

Recent foster bunny, Notch, and his Corgi friend show how most rabbits get along with well-behaved dogs. Photo by Desiree Gatto.

BOULEVARD VIEW

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor and Publisher

The end of the year is a time for reflection. An article by author Chiara Fucarino titled “22 Things Happy, Successful People Do Differently,” is one I resonate with and strive for. I thought I’d share part of the article with you. (For the full piece and further points of each bullet item visit https://tinyurl.com/vehaa8ts.)

“There are two types of people in the world: those who choose to be happy, and those who choose to be unhappy. Contrary to popular belief, happiness doesn’t come from fame, fortune, other people, or material possessions. Rather, it comes from within. The richest person in the world could be miserable while a homeless person could be right outside, smiling and content with their life. Happy people are happy because they make themselves happy. They maintain a positive outlook on life and remain at peace with themselves.

The question is: how do they do that?

It’s quite simple. Happy people have good habits that enhance their lives. They do things differently. Ask any happy person, and they will tell you that they …

• Don’t hold grudges

• Treat everyone with kindness

• See problems as challenges

• Express gratitude for what they already have

• Dream big

• Don’t sweat the small stuff

• Speak well of others

• Never make excuses

• Get absorbed into the present

• Wake up at the same time every morning

• Avoid social comparison

• Choose friends wisely • Never seek approval from others

• Take the time to listen • Nurture social relationships

• Exercise

• Live minimally

• Accept what cannot be changed”

Help San Ramon Valley Republican Women

Honor Local Heroes!

Sponsor a wreath to be placed on veteran’s grave. Please send checks to “Wreaths Across America” c/o SRVRWF, PO Box 1, Danville, CA 94526. Please indicate CA0722 in the subject line.

Join the remembrance on Saturday, December 17th at 11AM at the Alamo Cemetery located at 130 El Portal, Danville to help place wreaths for our heroes!

• Meditate

• Tell the truth

• Eat well

• Establish personal control

So, going into the holidays and new year, how can I continue down this path? Part of my plan is to continue to support and nurture those, like our local non-profits, that continue to do good and support others in need. There are many such groups to be found throughout the pages of this paper. Some are in need of financial assistance, our time, and/or our creative minds.

One such group is Meals on Wheels Diablo Region (MOW). Their website notes, “Helping over 7,500 seniors each year, our mission is to enhance the lives of older adults in Contra Costa County by providing coordinated care that enables them to live independently and with dignity. Our dedicated staff of experts connects seniors with essential services in Contra Costa County. We work to keep our elderly neighbors nourished, healthy, safe, and independent because we provide more than a meal.”

“MOW Diablo Region’s (www.mowdiabloregion.org) services grew exponentially during the pandemic. The 50% increase in demand the organization experienced since 2020 has not shown any signs of decreasing because seniors are the fastest-growing segment of the population in the County.” The local Walnut Creek offices recently experienced a destructive fire that forced the relocation of their staff. Fortunately, no client missed a meal or service. That being said, volunteers are always needed (www.mowdiabloregion.org/get-involved), and financial support (www.mowdiabloregion.org/ how-give) is always welcome.

I took over the Alamo Today paper in Sep tember 2004, began the Danville Today paper in November 2009, and merged the two in 2017. I am always grateful to the advertisers who support this publication and help provide the means for production and distribution.

My goal, as it has been for the last 18 years, is to provide hyperlocal, apolitical, positive stories, news, and upcoming events to those in our community.

I’d love to hear from you! What makes you happy? What are your favorite columns and articles? What would you like to read more about? Please share your ideas with me by emailing editor@yourmonthlypaper.com. Happy holidays.

18TH ANNUAL ADOPT-A-FAMILY BIKE PROGRAM

USED BIKES NEEDED!

Donate your gently used adult or children’s bike (bike trailers, too) and vol unteers will clean, tune, safety check, and distribute it to a deserving individual, along with a new helmet as well as a new U-lock for the adults and teens!

Bike drop-off dates are Saturdays and Sundays, December 3rd, 4th, 10th, and 11th from 10AM-4PM. Drop off will be held at 180 Alamo Plaza in Alamo, next to TREK bike store.

A $20 donation per bike is requested to help defray the cost of helmets, locks, and parts. Please make checks payable to St. Timothy’s Episcopal Church of Danville.

Learn more at www. AdoptAFamilyBikes.org Please check the site fre quently for expanded dates and hours, or contact adoptafamilybikes@gmail.com for additional information.

CELEBRATION OF CHRISTMAS EVENING

The 22nd annual Celebration of Christmas is returning and continuing the holiday tradition with performances by high school choirs from the San Ramon Valley.

Established in 1995 by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints in Danville, the intention of the Cele bration of Christmas is to bring the community together to sing and listen to wonderful Christmas carols.

The first year included various local choirs as well as choirs from Monte Vista and San Ramon Valley High Schools. Later, the California High School Choir joined the celebration and, most recently, the Dougherty Valley High School Choir began participating. The choirs perform individually, and performances are interspersed with sing-alongs and special guests. It is an evening of musical merriment!

Mark your calendar to join this free holiday gathering on Sunday, December 11th at 7PM. The Celebration of Christmas will be held at The Church of Jesus Christ Latter-Day Saints located at 655 Old Orchard Dr. in Danville.

PAGEANT OF THE PACIFIC & PACIFIC

FAMILY HARVEST FARM WINTER FESTIVAL: FREE CRAFTS, MUSIC & MORE

By Jody Morgan

Family Harvest Farm, a project of the John Muir Land Trust, invites the public to a free Winter Festival at the farm located at 1300 Power Avenue, Pittsburg on Saturday, December 10th from 11AM to 3PM. Enjoy hands-on crafts including wreath-making, educa tional tours of the farm, music by DJ Kendo and The Fresh Crew, and face painting. Food trucks will be onsite. Hot cocoa and cider will be served free. The Holiday Toy Drive for Foster Youth is an easy way for attendees to contribute to the day’s success.

Located on a once barren 3.5-acre plot under power lines in the heart of a nationally-designated food desert, Family Harvest Farm is a thriving example of the benefits of regenerative farming. Learn how the amazing harvest of organic fruits and vegetables is produced, providing healthy produce free to neighbors in need. The farm provides employment along with practical coun seling to transition-age foster youth finding themselves suddenly responsible for supporting themselves as independent adults, but lacking marketable skills or a clear understanding of how to find their personal paths to success.

Register free at jmlt.org/winterfest.

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PROGRAM ON THE HISTORY & STORY OF TREASURE ISLAND

As you cross the Bay Bridge you pass Treasure Island, but what do you know about it? Join the Museum of the San Ramon Valley’s free virtual program on Thursday, December 15th at 11:30AM to learn about the history and story of Treasure Island.

In the 1930s, as tension grew between the United States and Japan, San Francisco built a brand-new island on San Francisco Bay. How did the international crisis affect plans for this new island?

The world’s fair was held on Treasure Island in 1939-1940. Titled “The Golden Gate International Exposition: A Pageant of the Pacific,” “Pacific Unity” was chosen as the theme of the Exposition. The theme deeply influ enced the fair’s lovely and exotic architecture, art, programming, choice of participants, and even entertainment.

Join in to learn how Treasure Island got transformed into a Navy base and how the Treasure Island Museum emerged from this.

The presenter will be Anne Schnoebelen. Anne is a writer and historian who has served as a board member at the Treasure Island Museum for many years. She is an advocate for the preservation of Treasure Island’s legacy in print, interviews, programs, and social media. She has given many programs on the history of Treasure Island, including its founding, its military and aviation origins, its Pacific theme, its influence on Walt Disney, and more.

To attend this free online presentation, visit 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. in Danville. Hours are Tuesday-Friday 1PM-4PM, Saturday 10AM-1PM, and Sunday noon-3PM. For more information, visit museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750.

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B r i g h t e n t h e h o l i d a y s f o r l o c a l f o s t e r c h i l d r e n !

Brighten the holidays for local foster children! Fostering Wishes delivers hundreds of gifts through our agency partners.

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F A C T S A B O U T F O S T E R C H I L D R E N

A C T S Scan the code at left, or visit linktr.ee/fosteringwishes for ways you can help via Amazon, Venmo, amd GoFundMe.

F o r m o r e i n f o r m a t o n v i s i t o u r w e b s i t e : f o s t e r n g w s h e s o r g o r i n s t a g r a m @ f o s t e r i n g w i s h e s T a x r e c e i p t s a r e a v a l a b l e u p o n r e q u e s t a t F o s t e r i n g W s h e s @ o u t l o o k c o m E I N 8 8 3 9 3 5 0 3 0

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Fostering Wishes is an Alamo-based nonprofit. We partner with local foster care agencies to improve children’s quality of life and enable them to be self-sufficient as young adults.

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Fostering Wishes is 100% volunteer driven, and all proceeds directly support the children.

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Reduce food waste this holiday season!

Take the Pledge:

This holiday season, place food scraps in the green cart to help keep useful material out of the landfill and rebuild the soil that grows our food!

Pledge now! Your participation will enter you into a raffle to win prizes from local eco-stores. Pledge online by December 31:

ContraCostaComposts.com

SAN RAMON VALLEY SKI & SNOWBOARD SWAP!

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 17TH FROM 9AM TO 3PM

On Saturday, December 17th, the San Ramon Valley High School (SRVHS) Ski & Snowboard Swap returns to the SRVHS Commons (next to the Per forming Arts Center). The Swap is hosted by the SRVHS Instrumental Music Program. It is a great place to outfit your family with winter gear for skiing and snowboarding. You will find a huge selection of top-brand new and used skis, boards, boots, poles, helmets, goggles, and apparel in adult and children's sizes, along with expert advice to make sure you get just the right fit. Items will be 1/4 to 1/2 off original prices.

If you have gently used equipment or outerwear that your family has outgrown or no longer needs, you can donate it to the swap. Funds raised will help fund the instrumental music depart ment. Donations are tax deductible. Visit www.srvskiswap.com to donate or for more details.

Admission is $5 per person and free to children 5 and under with an adult.

FOSTERING WISHES HOLIDAY DRIVE

Fostering Wishes (FW) is an Alamo-based organization that is working to “lend a hand and change lives” of foster children. It is estimated that there are 60,000 foster children in Califor nia and 50-60 homeless and foster children in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. At FW, the group envisions a community that supports and nurtures every local foster child so that they feel like valued members of society.

You may already be familiar with the Holiday Gift Drive program where we partner with local businesses and local foster care agencies to provide a joyful holiday season for foster youth and children. Throughout the year, FW also provides duffel bags filled with necessities to children who are changing placements. All of the programs provide hope and dignity to these children.

In addition, the group is developing new programs that provide the skills and resources necessary for foster youth to successfully transi tion to adulthood while they are still in the foster care system. These programs will address mental health needs and provide opportunities to build life skills.

CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS IN THE VALLEY AT THE MUSEUM OF THE SAN

RAMON VALLEY

To celebrate the holiday season, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley has opened a new exhibit titled, “Holidays in the Valley.” The exhibit is a celebration of trains, toys, dolls, and the many cultures of our area. Holidays in the Valley will run through January 8th

The main exhibit area will have a wonderful model train featuring the G Scale Christmas train. These large model trains are exciting for young and old alike. A large beautifully decorated Christmas tree and lots of other holiday decorations will also fill the room.

In addition, the museum will be celebrating the classic toys that were elected to the Toy Hall of Fame including, Lite-Brite, Bryer horses, Pound Puppies, Nerf, and the spinning top to name a few. These toys will bring back great memories for all.

A photo collection of dolls from around the world will highlight the many cultures that make up the San Ramon Valley. Take a moment and look at the pictures of dolls representing the countries and cultures they are from.

Children will enjoy a playhouse for them to have fun in, and it is also a great photo opportunity. Young visitors will also have a spot to write letters to Santa that are guar anteed to be delivered to the North Pole.

Before you leave Holidays in the Valley, take a moment and visit the memory tree. This is an opportunity to write down your “Most Exciting Holiday Time,” and spread the holiday spirit.

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville. Hours are Tuesday-Friday 1PM-4PM, Saturday 10AM-1PM, and Sunday noon-3PM. For more infor mation, visit museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750.

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Would you consider lending a hand and changing a life? FW is currently collecting gifts to distribute to foster children of all ages. You may donate specific gifts at FosteringWishes.org using the Amazon Wish List or give via GoFundMe (find the link at linktr.ee/fosteringwishes) to help purchase gift cards and other requested items. Or, look for a tree or basket with gift tags at a local business. All donations go directly to the foster children and are tax deductible.

c a l f o s t e r c h i l d r e n ! W i s h e s d e l i v e r s h u n d r e d s o f g i f t s t h r o u g h o u r a g e n c y p a r t n e r s % o f t h e d o n a t i o n s g o t o t h e f o s t e r c h i l d r e n .

Local Misto Lino shops offer high-quality linens and one of a kind gifts for the home. This year 100% of the profits from their signature holiday ornament will be donated to FW. You can find the stores located at 704 Sycamore Valley road in Danville and 3585 Mount Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette.

Can you help during the holidays or on future projects? Reach out or learn more at Foster ingWishes.org, email Fostering.Wishes@outlook.com, or visit on Instagram @fosteringwishes

THE GATTI REPORT: YOUR GREATER DANVILLE AREA REAL ESTATE

By Joe Gatti

UPDATE

First and foremost, we would like to wish our readers a happy and healthy holiday season! We hope Thanksgiving was relaxing with family and friends and that everyone is looking forward to a wonderful Christmas/December holiday period. As we enter December, we can now reflect on the year that was in 2022. For our local real estate market, the two issues of inflation and mortgage interest rates have framed the conditions for sellers and buyers in our housing market over the past year. As we reflect, we can breathe a sigh of relief that inflation might finally be receding in a meaningful way and, once it does, mortgage interest rates will take a more stable trajectory as we move forward in 2023.

At the midpoint of this year, the Federal Reserve watched as inflation reached 9.1% in June, which turned out to be the highest inflation reading in 2022 and the highest U.S. inflation level since 1981. They would make four consecutive .75 basis point raises, six in total, with the purpose of reversing these levels. Thankfully, the prevailing question in the last month has been, “Has inflation peaked?” On November 10th we might have received our answer; the October consumer price index was released showing the first genuine signs of inflation declining beyond what market economists had predicted. The inflation level came in at 7.7%, down from September’s 8.2%, and the lowest level since January of 2022.* There is still more work to be done, and it is anticipated that the Federal Reserve will raise rates .50 basis points at their December 14th meeting. It does appear though that these rate increases will become smaller, and, at some point, the Fed will finally be able to pause increases altogether.

For local home values, as the Federal Reserve precipitously raised rates, we witnessed mortgage rates go from 3% in February to above 7% in late October. This pace of mortgage rate increases affected every housing market in the country. When considering the greater Danville area, which includes Alamo, Blackhawk, Danville, Diablo, and San Ramon, it serves to separate the year into halves. The first half consisted of January 1st through May 31st , where mortgage rates went from 3% up to 5%.** The median sold price for a detached property in our area was roughly $2,350,000 during this time. When contrasting that price with the second half of the year, the effect of higher rates on buyer demand is evident. From June 1st to mid-November, rates increased from 5% to as high as 7.3%. The median sold price, as a result, declined 14.89% or $350,000 to a median value of $2,000,000!*** This is a difference in buyer demand that we can directly attribute to mortgage rate increases.

The silver lining for our local housing market is that inflation appears to be waning and home values are still higher than they were one year ago. The median detached home value in 2021 was $1,860,000. At $2,000,000, we are still 7% higher. The market characteristics are different, but our local market is still strong and healthy going into 2023. If you have questions on the value of your home during this period of changing interest rates, please reach out for a private consultation. Our services and full time experience will help price your home correctly. Happy holidays and we look forward to seeing everyone in the new year!

I hope you found this article helpful. I’ve been serving our real estate community for 10 years. Ron Gatti, my business partner and father, has been a full-time real estate professional for over 40 years, all in the greater Danville area. We both are Associate Brokers with Compass out of the 15 Railroad office in downtown Danville. If you have any real estate questions during this extraordinary time or have questions about this article, please email GattiRealEstate@gmail.com or call Joe Gatti at 925-588-3590. Our services are here for you!

* Inman, “Inflation pumped brakes in October, but buyers still seeing consequences,” by Marian Mcpherson, November 10, 2022.

**https://themortgagereports.com/61853/30-year-mortgage-rates-chart, November 18th, 2022.

***Data taken from the MLS during specific dates and under the criteria mentioned within the article.

Best wishes to you all this Holiday Season. May 2023 bring renewed hope and many wonderful things to you and your family.

SAN RAMON VALLEY CHRISTIAN

ACADEMY

By Jamie Westgate, Principal

Mmm mmm. You can practically smell the Christmas cookies, taste the hot chocolate, and envision full stockings hanging by the fireplace. Christmas is coming! I think this might be every student’s favorite season, and it is such a privilege to be in a school where we can celebrate the true reason for the season with such fanfare!

If you were to stop on campus, you’d see signs of Christmas all around. Because this holiday is such a meaningful season for the Christian faith, we make an intentional effort to include it in the curriculum of all of our classes. Our TK-5th grade classes will be studying the Nativity story and learning that visits from both the wise men and the shepherds symbolically remind us that Jesus’s life was given for all who believe, no matter their race, economic status, or gender. The art projects on the walls, special writing assignments, and even a couple of field trips all provide the opportunity for our students to learn more about Jesus’s birth and His desire to love and care for us.

We are so thankful to bring back our elementary Christmas musicals! These special performances are guaranteed to warm hearts and induce smiles on all who come to watch. Please consider joining us Friday, December 9th at 9AM in the sanctuary at Community Presbyterian Church for the TK- 2nd grade performance, Angels, Say What? Our 3rd-5th grade students will share their performance, Jingle Bell Beach on December 13th at 7PM. While on campus, stop by our library for our SRVCA Book Faire where you can pick up a gift for the voracious reader in your home. Please join us for one of these festive events!

When we return from Christmas vacation, our focus will be to welcome prospective families. We want the world to meet Jesus Christ through our students - the next generation of leaders - by inspiring them to love God, learn for life, and lead like Christ. We partner with parents to provide an excellent foundation in which your child will succeed. Be sure to visit our website for upcoming events, www.srvca.org May your home be filled with peace, joy, hope, and love this Christmas.

CATCH UP ON SOME “Z s ” A CHILL BREEZE AND NO WORRIES

By Jaime Kaiman, Monte Vista High, Senior

With the current state of the world, it can be easy to get lost in the stress of everything. Whether it be the due date of an upcoming assignment or trying to avoid sickness in the workplace, life can be ex tremely overwhelming at times. Thanksgiving gives us the perfect opportunity to take a step back and look at things to be thankful for.

MONTE VISTA HIGH

By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal November brought all kinds of excitement to the Monte Vista (MV) campus as we entered the last weeks of fall semester. Our fall athletic teams have ended their seasons, winter athletics programs are well underway, and our Visual and Performing Arts (VAPA) programs are just getting started with their fall and holiday performances.

Fall athletic campaigns finished in a big way with MV Women’s Golf claiming the EBAL championship and taking second place in the NCS and CIF Northern California tournaments. MV Women’s Tennis followed suit with a resounding undefeated season to win their EBAL Title. MV Women’s Volleyball earned our third EBAL banner of the 2022 campaign with a signature win against San Ramon Valley High (SRV) in the EBAL Championship match. In other action, MV’s new pool deck was packed with fans for the rivalry match between MV and SRV Women’s Water Polo. The Mustangs scored late to tie the game and put the match into overtime. MV’s defense came through time and time again with several clutch plays before our offense scored the deciding goal in the second overtime period making for a memorable 7-6 win. Finally, MV Cross Country finished strong at the EBAL Finals Meet sending numerous representatives to the NCS and CIF meets.

On November 9th, MV honored 13 student-athletes from the Class of 2023 at our annual Early Signing Ceremony. Our students signed National Letters of Intent in baseball, basketball, cross country, swimming, soccer, track, and vol leyball. Next year, these athletes will compete at Cal Poly, Cornell, Georgetown, Mississippi College, Pepperdine, Providence, SMC, Stanford, UCD, UCLA, UCSB, and Utah. These young adults are outstanding representatives of the MV community, and we look forward to hearing about their future accolades.

MV’s VAPA departments continued to dazzle through November beginning with our theater program which performed The Girl in the Mirror in front of packed houses. Our actors were truly amazing as they presented us with a terrific performance. Hats off to Mr. Chris Connor and his group of thespians.

MV’s Dance program, led by our dance director Ryane Siegel also performed to three sold-out audiences. As always, MV’s dancers gave our community numerous amazing performances with choreography that covered multiple genres and styles of dance.

Every fall, in addition to their performances at every halftime, MV’s Marching Band goes on their own string of victories, this year taking numerous honors at the Foothill, Folsom, and Napa band competitions. In addition, MV’s Orchestra, Jazz Band, and Concert Band will be performing their annual Winter Concert on December 14th and 16th.

Finally, MV’s Choir Program, will be performing their Winter Holiday Concert on December 8th and 9th in the Al Gentile Theater. Both performances begin at 7 PM. In addition, MV’s Chamber Singers will be performing December 10th for “Sing in the City,” and December 11th at the “Celebration of Christmas” concert.

On behalf of the MV Community, I wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season with family and loved ones.

The chill breeze November brings helps to wash away the worries of the year. It allows us to open up to having a relaxing rest of the year and an open mind for the new year.

I know many students are pulling their hair out right now just at the thought of finals approaching. It’s especially stressful for us seniors with finishing college applications and crossing our fingers for an acceptance letter from early action or early decision schools. On top of it all, we have practice, performances, homework, and more to balance. In times like these, it can be extremely helpful to think on the bright side of things. For instance, think about how good it’s going to feel once you finish that application or when you complete your last final of the semester. Although it might not feel like it right now, that feeling of accomplishment is going to be worth all of the time and effort that was put into all of the hard work.

I feel like recently everyone has been getting sick. Personally, I feel like I have been perpetually sick throughout the end of October into November. At the end of last month, I had a fever of 103 degrees. I had the worst chills, a pounding headache, and a nasty cough. Luckily, I was able to fend off that illness fairly quickly (or so I thought). Just a few weeks ago, I was infected with the same thing! I had a 102 degree fever this time, and I had the absolute worst coughing attacks. As soon as I started to get over this sickness, my mom got sick with the same thing. Once she beat it, my sister caught it, and many of my friends ended up getting sick too. The plague seemed to be present in Danville this month! It made me realize just how thankful I am for my health and the health of my loved ones.

Overall, although life can get chaotic at times, it’s important to find the bright side of things. Throughout the stress of everything, it’s vital to stay mindful and to be thankful for the positive things in your life at the moment. I hope everyone has a happy and healthy remainder of 2022.

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

Neighborhood Watch is a community action and problem-solving program, and one of the most effective means available for resolving issues within the community. Through organized problem-solving activities, your block can remove crime from your neighborhood and address community issues of concern.

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

HOMELESS SERVICES IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

By County Supervisor Candace Andersen November was Homelessness Awareness Month in Contra Costa County. Homelessness Awareness Month involves a collaboration with the community. To assist with this, a toolkit was provided to the Board of Supervisors. It is a great resource for those in the community who want to learn more, do more, and share more. You can find the toolkit on the County Health, Housing, and Homeless Services (H3) website - https://cchealth.org/h3/coc/pdf/Home less-Awarenes-Toolkit-2022.pdf

There are many reasons why a person becomes homeless, including a lack of affordable housing, loss of a job, domestic violence, divorce, sickness, mental illness, and substance abuse. Often people will return to the com munity where they were raised, where they still have family and friends, and where they feel safe. Although not always seen, there are generally homeless living in every community in Contra Costa, including Lamorinda and San Ramon Valley cities.

Contra Costa County takes the issue of homelessness very seriously. The County provides services for all groups including families with children (0 to 5), families with school aged children, transitional aged youth (18 to 24), older adults, and veterans. In 2021, 9,119 people accessed homeless services. Our Homeless Program’s mission is to ensure an integrated system of care, from prevention through intervention, for homeless individuals and families within our community. We strive to accomplish this through the develop ment of policies and practices, community involvement, advocacy, and the coordination of services that respect human dignity, strengthen partnerships, and maximize resources.

The Contra Costa Homeless Continuum of Care (CoC) has implement ed a Coordinated Entry System (CES) to ensure that homeless individuals, and those at-risk of homelessness, receive the most appropriate services

LOCAL ROTARY CLUBS

to meet their housing needs.

Where does someone go for help? Dial 211 on your phone. The 211 information line, operated by the Contra Costa Crisis Center, is currently providing a phone portal for individuals and families needing to connect to homeless services. Callers will be connected to Coordinated Outreach Referral and Engagement (CORE) teams and Coordinated Assessment Resource and Engagement (CARE) Centers. Residents can also text “HOPE” to 20121. Call 211 for help with emergency food, affordable housing, emergency shelter, job services, re-entry services, rental assistance, utility assistance, healthcare, mental health, alcohol/drug services, parenting support, veteran’s benefits, legal assistance, and much more. 211 is available 24 hours per day.

CARE Centers are available to those who need services. Contra Costa has a place in Walnut Creek, located at the Trinity Center, 1888 Trinity Avenue, and another in Richmond located at 165 22nd Street. Both sites provide basic needs including meals, bathrooms, mail, laundry, and showers as well as case management. The County’s CORE teams work to engage and stabilize homeless individuals living outside or in encampments and are helping to facilitate and/or deliver health and basic need services and find permanent housing. Evening CORE teams can provide direct placement into shelter beds.

To learn more about the County’s programs go to cchealth.org/homeless There are also many non-profits in our community that could use your volun teer efforts and financial support in helping fight homelessness. To see a full list of homeless service agencies with volunteer opportunities, visit https:// cchealth.org/h3/coc/pdf/Volunteer-Opportunities-at-CoC-agencies.pdf

Finally, if someone you know is homeless and needs services, please call 211 or Contra Costa County’s 24-hour homeless hotline (800-830-5380) to gain access to vital services.

My office is here to serve the residents of CCC District 2, which includes Alamo, Blackhawk, Canyon, Danville, Diablo, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Rossmoor, San Ramon, Tassajara Valley, and parts of un-incorporated Walnut Creek. Please contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@ bos.cccounty.us or 925-655-2300.

To learn more about The Rotary Club of Alamo and see current meeting dates and times, visit their Facebook page “Rotary Club of Alamo.” More information is also available at alamorotary.org, alamorotary@hotmail.com, or by calling 925-718-6601. The Danville Rotary Club meets virtually every Monday at noon. Learn more at danvillerotary.org. If you are interested in 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 925-6836310 or visit www.sanramonvalleyrotary.com. The Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/San Ramon meets via Zoom on Wednesdays from 5:30PM-6:40PM For more information, call 925-998-2924. Rotary Club of San Ramon meets via Zoom every Thursday between noon and 1:15pm. For more information, visit sanramonrotary.org, or email chris@gallagherwealth.com, or call 925-831-3043.

DANVILLE LIONS CLUB

The Danville Lions Club meets twice a month at 6:30PM on the first and third Wednesday at Mangia Mi located at 406 Hartz Ave, Danville. The group is looking for like-minded people who wish to volunteer their time for good causes to join the club. The group is a dinner-time club and meets at restaurants for dinner and business meetings in Danville. Danville Lions raise funds and provide services to those in need, both locally and worldwide, through fun and gratifying projects. Lions are well known for successful initiatives in vision health. Please visit www.e-clubhouse.org/ sites/danvilleca to learn more or contact Club president Diana Gaines at 925-719-1553.

EXCHANGE CLUB

The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month at The Grille at Blackhawk, located at 3540 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville. Sign-in and social time begin at 11:30AM . The meeting starts promptly at noon and ends promptly at 1PM. The one-hour program features guest speakers and business networking. Guests are welcome with luncheon reservations. The cost is $30. For reservations and information, please contact Karen Stepper at 925-998-8865 or coachstepper@yahoo.com.

KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY

The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets every Thursday at noon at Black Bear Diner located at 807 Camino Ramon in Danville. 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, email info@srvkiwanis.org, or visit www.srvkiwanis.org

QUICK TRIPS

By Linda Summers Pirkle

CANDELIGHT CONCERTS

My favorite little hotel in Paris is not well known, it’s not fancy, and I love it. The small rooms are cozy, with a mix of classic and modern furniture, a combination that appeals to me. Located on Rue Rombateau, in the first arrondissement, it is well situated for easy walks to my favorite places: the Georges Pompidou Center, Beaubourg, the Louvre, and the Marais area. Nearby is a tiny shop that specializes in wonderfully curated items made in France, many vintage from the 1940’s and 1950’s. There are also two patisseries with excellent pain chocolat. In addition, there is my “go-to hair salon,” as well as a wonderful used clothing store minutes away.

The most recognizable landmark in the neighborhood is magnificent Saint-Eustache Church, the last Gothic church built in Paris. It was constructed between 1532 and 1632. The church is well known for its organ with nearly 8,000 pipes and in their day, composers Verdi, Liszt, and Berlioz chose to play their compositions here because of the spectacular acoustics. Special performances of classical, Baroque, and sacred music are held at St. Eustache as well as other historic churches including Sainte Chappell and Eglise Saint-Germain. The holiday concerts are popular with locals and visitors, and often sell out a month in advance. Closer to home, candlelit performances by local musicians in various stunning locations, known as Candlelight Concerts, have arrived in the San Francisco Bay Area. The series of classical music concerts was created to inspire their audiences with innovative experiences. According to Amanda Boucault, PR and Communications Coordinator at Candlelight, when the series was launched in 2019 the concerts focused on bringing traditional classical music closer to a new demographic that wouldn’t normally be interested in it. The program includes a wide variety of themes and genres beyond classical, such as jazz, pop, movie soundtracks, and ballet packed with the best hits of contemporary artists such as Queen, Coldplay, and Taylor Swift. Boucault mentioned that 70% of attendees are under the age of 40. From Australia, all over Europe, and now in the San Francisco Bay Area, these performances sell out wherever they go. My husband and I were among 400 plus people of all ages, including children, at a mid-week concert in the historic Hibernia Bank in San Francisco. For an hour, four musicians performed selected works from Hans Zimmer’s extensive list of movie soundtracks including Gladiator, The Dark Knight, Pearl Harbor, Lion King, and Inception on a stage covered with hundreds of mechanical candles. Even the walkways and open spaces were lined with candles.

“We are proud to create visibility and opportunities for fantastic musicians with a variety of qualifications and origins. Our talents not only are able to play masterpieces of greatest composers, but know that classical music can reach every corner, and are able to perform the best hits of contemporary artists such as soundtrack, pop, and rock songs on their classical instruments.”

Candlelight Concerts has chosen venues all over the world which stand out in their historic nature or singular character, spanning from modern rooftops with great views to iconic cathedrals and palaces. Besides Hibernia Bank, the other two venues in San Francisco include St. Ignatius and Grace Cathedral. The Best of the Beatles candlelight concert in January at Grace Cathedral is on my wish list.

To purchase tickets, go to Feverup.com and search for candlelight concerts in the SF Bay Area.

Linda Summers Pirkle is a travel writer, Francophile, consultant, and long-term Danville resident. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas, email Cover themap@gmail.com.

HOSPICE TREE OF LIGHTS

Hospice East Bay (HEB) has been caring for patients and their families in our community since 1977. They are proud to be celebrating their 36th annual Tree of Lights. The Tree of Lights ceremonies set aside time for families and friends to honor their loved ones through the symbolism of light and the reading of names. Many Tree of Lights ceremonies will take place. The nearest will be held in:

• Blackhawk ~ Friday, December 9th, 5PM

• Walnut Creek ~ Monday, December 5th, 6PM

For addresses and other ceremony sites, visit https://tinyurl.com/2oe5u5wx.

Funds raised by these events help HEB provide hospice and palliative care services to everyone in our communities, regardless of their ability to pay. Through your gifts, HEB also offers additional supportive services and programs, such as music therapy and children’s grief programs, which are not covered by insurance.

For questions, contact Ann Mimiaga at 925-887-5678, 925-499-6642, or annm@hospiceeastbay.org

FRIENDS OF THE DANVILLE LIBRARY BOOK SALE

The Friends of the Danville Library will host a pop-up used book sale to raise money for our local library. There will be books of all genres and for all ages. Most hardbacks will be priced at $2 and most paperbacks at $1. Recent publications will be slightly higher. Cash and local checks only.

The sale will be held in the Mt. Diablo Room of the Danville Library located at 400 Front Street, Danville.

The next book sale will be held Saturday, December 3rd from 10am to 2pm. Proceeds from the sale go towards funding library programs and purchasing library materials.

ORATORICAL CONTEST FOR STUDENTS

The Oratorical Contest is a time-honored constitutional speech contest annually sponsored by the American Legion. Established in 1938, the contest provides high school students with an opportunity to develop a deeper knowledge, appreciation, and understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights, and privileges of American citizenship and the U.S. Constitution.

Interested high school students of the San Ramon Valley Unified School District, private schools, and home school students who live in San Ramon, Danville, or Alamo, may notify the American Legion Mt. Diablo Post 246 of their interest in participating via e-mail to commanderpost246@gmail.com or postal mail at Mt Diablo Post 246, P.O. Box 133, Danville, CA 94526, not later than December 31, 2022. Include student name, school name, grade, and contact information.

Participants have the opportunity to develop their public speaking skills and win college scholarships. For more information, visit www.legion.org/ oratorical/about or contact Neil Giles at 925-272-8480.

ACTION POOL REPAIR

I asked my dad if he still had my Marklin. He did, and I rediscovered the hobby as a young adult, and I have never looked back.”

Terry Heywood, who is taking the lead on coordinating the Alamo Plaza presenta tion, discovered model railroad ing as an adult. “I joined ETE in 2010 after visiting their layout at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley in Danville with my son. We were amazed by the detailed scenery, modular layout, and the European Trains!” Heywood writes. “The group afforded us the opportunity to enjoy model rail roading without building a home layout. In fact, I bought three modules shortly after joining and have not stopped improving the scenery since.”

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Describing what he enjoys most about working with the Module Group, Terry remarks, “What makes the group special are the skills we share and the professionalism which is reflected in the appearance of each module and layout.” Members handy with woodworking tools or adept at fashioning scenic elements, for example, can call on others skilled in technology to bring their productions to life. That may involve animating roosters fighting in a barnyard with appropriate sounds, lighting the interiors of village homes or playing stationmasters calling, “All Aboard!” in a language matched to the departing European train.

Visitors enchanted by their first visit to the Alamo display are likely to discover a different set of trains traversing the rails should they return on a later date. Heywood notes, “A schedule of operators and docents is prepared prior to each show. Typically, two to three operators are scheduled each day and bring their own trains to run. Each locomotive has a code which is entered into the ‘central station.’ All functions of the locomotive (speed, sounds, lights) are con trolled by the station or a handheld device. When you swap out a train you must enter a new code. All codes are written down and

and ensure the safety of visitors.

The Module Group’s website explains the technology involved in detail. “Technically, the layout is unique in several ways: 1) It allows the running of two rail DC and three rail AC trains, both digital and analog, 2) The block signaling systems is totally automated, allowing for simultaneous running of up to 14 trains without fear of collision, 3) The signaling system can be easily reprogrammed as the modules are rearranged at different venues, and 4) The overhead wires (catenary) are live, and electric locomotives are powered from overhead.”

Despite rave reviews from everyone attending an ETE show, finding and maintaining a venue for a non-profit club with a museum-quality modular model train layout often takes a bit of finesse. Although ETE had a long-standing relationship with the Blackhawk Automotive Museum, Stretch Andersen realized that when the new Executive Director and auto aficionado, Tim McGrane, was hired in 2013, he might not understand why a premiere car museum should offer space for model trains.

Andersen recalls: “I dressed up a bit for my first meeting with McGrane and arrived carrying a briefcase with three of my best model loco motives. I had heard that Tim liked high end things. One at a time, I took my exquisite and intricate model engines out of the briefcase and placed them on Tim’s desk. He understood the point. ETE holiday displays continued, and Tim became one of our most devoted fans.”

Visiting the ETE train display at the Black hawk Museum became a holiday tradition for many San Ramon Valley residents for 15 years, until the museum converted its space for revolv ing exhibits into new galleries with permanent collections. Forced to seek alternative venues for their holiday displays, ETE found vacant retail spaces at the adjacent Blackhawk Shopping Center to call home for the next three years, until the COVID-19 pandemic canceled the possibility of honoring the seasonal tradition.

displayed for operators.” Docents are on hand to answer questions

Dieter Vorbach sets up. Photo by Scott Pinson.

Mart Nieskens and Sanjay Shah get everything ready. Photo by Scott Pinson.

Intricate and realistic detail can be seen throughout the display. Photo by Scott Pinson.

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VALLEY VIGNETTE

By Roxanne Lindsay

CHRISTMASES PAST IN THE SAN RAMON VALLEY

Picture a valley with a few small towns and many farms spread throughout. The days are getting shorter, and a smoky haze fills the air. The fall colors have faded and there is the promise of Christmas coming. Some residents of this wonderful valley have warm, cherished memories of those days.

Ardith (Osborn) Steger tells how the Osborn Family would sit around the Christmas tree playing a game of “guess which ornament I’m thinking of,” a version of twenty questions. Their tree had many different precious ornaments purchased over the years, each special in its memory. An excursion to Oakland for Christmas shopping was eagerly anticipated.

Millie Freitas remembers the huge Christmas tree in the center of the stage at what is now known as the Village Theatre, but at that time was the Grange Hall. Santa Claus would come and all the local kids would get hard candy, an apple, and an orange.

I notice many people recalled the luxury of oranges at Christmas. An orange was a rare and special treat. At the Wood Ranch, Don Wood remembers his family getting a case of oranges at Christmas time.

Another glowing memory was tinsel and the way it sparkled on the tree. In the Tassajara Valley, Rose (Bet tencourt) Ferreira’s family always had a pine tree with tinsel. The kids would get oranges and toys. And, yes, occasionally snow around Christmas.

Jane Ashworth, and many of us from San Ramon remember how the San Ramon Hall was decorated with a tree, and a school Christmas play would be put on by the kids well into the 1950’s. Santa would come to hand out Christmas stockings made by the Mother’s Club, then everyone sang carols. This festivity was attended by most of the people in San Ramon.

Early Christmas trees on the Wiedemann Ranch were bay trees as they were so plentiful. Howard and Doris Wiedemann had a twelfth night tree burning for many years to close the season. As you can imagine, this was pretty spectacular with a lot of pine trees.

Betty (Humburg) Dunlap and Norma (Humburg) Anderson have a particularly moving gift given to them in 1935 by Phil Harris in the form of a motion picture. The family was gathered in their Alamo home on Christmas morning when Phil came by to take moving pictures of their mother, father, and other relatives who are gone now, but that wonderful film lives on as a video. Betty remembers her mother’s carrot pudding with rum sauce, little shades on the Christmas tree lights, and two turkeys, one at each end of the table, to be carved. In January 1937, there was a lot of snow.

Claudia (Mauzy) Nemir’s family gathered at her Grandmother Mauzy’s on Christmas Eve. She remembers making ornaments, paper doll chains, paper chains, popcorn, and cranberry chains for decorations. The grandmothers Mauzy and Oswill would play the piano and uncle Tuny sang. The men played poker all night and the women played piedro [a card game]. So music and cards were an integral part of the celebration.

San Ramon Hall, the site of many Christmas celebrations for 50 years, beginning in 1911.

Los (Kamp) Gompertz remembers how important the Sunday School Christmas play was at the first Presbyterian Church in Danville. It was the high light of the season and Mr. Sttuchell was the minister. The Kamps’ big dinner and gift opening was on Christmas Eve. The children prepared a performance of some kind, music, skit, reading, etc., to do before the gifts. Each one received one special gift. Lois remembers getting a bridle she had wanted so much. I hope these memories stir your own special recollections of celebrations past. Merry Christmas! This column was written in 1990 and first appeared in the newsletter of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley.

SONS IN RETIREMENT

LAS TRAMPAS BRANCH #116

Sons in Retirement (SIR) Las Trampas Branch 116 helps semi-retired and retired men lead active lives. All ages are invited to partake in enriching social activities. There are minimal dues and no major commitments. Come join the group to make new friends and social connections and stay active. Monthly meetings are held at Boundary Oak Golf Course.

The robust and well organized nine-hole and 18-hole golf programs are in full swing. Play is at Boundary Oak and other courses in the area. There are two different book groups that meet monthly. A very active fishing group takes place with participation from SIR members in the area. Join our pickleball group for a fun way to get some exercise. The bridge group meets for lunch twice a month. Put on your shoes and take an easy hour-long walk every Friday morning with the Amiable Amblers walking group and also join in the monthly sponsored walking tours to explore local areas. Spouses and friends join in on wine tastings which take place at members houses and group dinners which are held at local restaurants.

To learn more or become a member, visit https://sirinc2.org/branch116, or call 925-322-1160. Come join the group and have some fun!

SAN RAMON VALLEY BRANCH #128

Looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining SIR San Ramon Valley Branch #128. There are monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. In-person luncheons occur on the third Wednesday of each month at 11AM at The Bridges located at 9000 S. Gale Ridge, San Ramon. SIR 128 offers its members many activities including investing, book groups, fantasy football, technology, wine tastings, golf, bocce ball, bicycling, hiking, pickleball, and more.

If you’re interested in attending a luncheon/meeting as a guest, email membership@sir128.com. To learn more about the group, visit www.SIR128.com

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The Greatest Rivalry In Sports

Army/Navy Game

December 10, 2022 Game starts 12:00

Come join your fellow Veterans downstairs in the main hall of the Veterans Memorial Building For hot dogs, chili, nachos, Camaraderie, and The Game Bring a side dish and refreshment

A tree with tinsel at the Museum and volunteer Jan Habiger.

While located within the Blackhawk Museum, ETE holiday displays supported the museum through admission fees. Relocation gave ETE the opportunity to dedicate proceeds from their modest admission fee to other non-profits, raising thousands of dollars for Marine Toys for Tots and Danville’s own Crayon Initiative. In memory of a Module Group member who recently lost his battle with cancer, proceeds from the 2022 Alamo Plaza show will benefit the American Cancer Society. Admission is $5. Children under 6 are free.

Approached about the possibility of holding the holiday season ETE show in Alamo, Roger Smith, President of AIA, enthusiastically endorsed the opportunity. The new owner of the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center agreed to co-host the more than month-long exhibition, renewing the tradition so loved by area families.

Smith writes: “Having had the opportunity to attend the ETE presentation at the Blackhawk Museums in past years and witness the smiles and laughter from all ages of model train enthusiasts, we are thrilled to have ETE become part of Alamo and Alamo Plaza’s Holiday Celebration. They are truly a ‘must see’ attraction. Please come.” One of the oldest ETE chapters in the country, the San Francisco Bay Area Chapter has about 125 members from across the Bay Area. As a smaller subgroup, the Modular Group draws the majority of participants from San Ramon Valley. Some members have personal connections to Europe through their ancestry or enjoyment of riding the rails through Europe. Others favor the models because of the variety of quality HO scale European trains available.

Marklin, although not the only manufacturer, remains at the head of most enthusiasts’ lists of producers. The German toy company was founded in 1859 by Theodor Friedrich Wilhelm Marklin. The enterprise produced its first wind-up train designed to run on a standard gauge track in 1891. Following the pattern of their other offerings like dollhouses, Marklin introduced accessories to complement their new toy trains. The model scale used in the ETE presentation at Alamo Plaza was introduced at the Leipzig Spring Fair in Nuremberg, Germany in 1935 and released thereafter by Marklin. Being about half the size of the larger, then popular O scale trains, it was designated Half O gauge, or HO. O scale is 48 times smaller than real-life objects. A tree rising to nine inches tall in an HO layout would be 63 feet high in an actual landscape. Visit the website of the Module Group to learn more: www.ete.org/sfbayareamodules. No model train expertise (only enthusiasm and dedication to learning) is required to join. “Newbies” are mentored by experienced members. Watch the video invitation to come to the exhibition at Alamo Plaza: www.ete.org/sfbayarea/media-sf-bay-/alamo-ca-exhibit-2022

“HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS” FAMILY CONCERT

The Diablo Symphony Orchestra joins forces with the Blackhawk Chorus on December 10th at 2PM at the Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church located at 1801 Lacassie Ave. The uplifting program will feature a potpourri of holiday music from around the world,

“Deck the Halls,” the traditional French carol “Sing We Now of Christmas,” and Leroy Anderson’s “Sleigh Ride.” Additionally, Left Coast Chamber Ensemble members join the orchestra for the world premiere of Ukrainian composer Alex Saratsky’s jazzy Double Concerto for violin and cello, followed by an orchestral arrangement of energetic and celebratory klezmer songs and dances.

The community-based Blackhawk Chorus, directed by Ken Abrams, is well known in the East Bay for performances that exhilarate singers and audiences alike. Abrahms has been the director of the chorus since May 2020, after recently retiring as the vocal director at San Ramon Valley High School, a position he held for 36 years. He is also the Artistic Director of the Danville Girls Chorus.

Advance tickets are available at www.diablosymphony.org or at the Lesher Center for the Arts box office (925-943-7469). Tickets can also be purchased at the door.

including “Star of Bethlehem” and “Somewhere in My Memory” from John Williams’s score for Home Alone, excerpts from Handel’s Messiah, John Rutter’s “What Sweeter Music,” Mark Wilberg’s arrangement of

ETE members get everything ready! Photo by Scott Pinson.

Klaus Kutz and Glenn Randle install parts of the scene. Photo by Scott Pinson.

CUSTOMIZE YOUR OWN ADU WITH PERPETUAL HOMES

By Perpetual Homes

There’s no ignoring the current housing crisis in California. California’s housing shortfall of approximately two million units has been created over decades, largely by a combination of high population growth and restrictive building policies. Many experts see accessory dwelling units, or ADUs, as a possible solution to this issue by providing additional housing for family members or renters while saving land.

One key step is finding the right partner to craft a sustainable, turnkey home.

“The goal of Perpetual Homes ADU is to build the highest quality at the most affordable price point,” explains Katherine Anderson, founder of Perpetual Homes ADU. “My experience, with 38 years in residential de velopment, has come together to design and create ADUs that fit families’ needs. Nowhere else can your family members live in such full-scale luxury

at an affordable price point than in a Perpetual Homes ADU.”

“If your family member, for example, has been priced out of the area, adding an ADU in your backyard can help them stay in the area and live in a beautiful luxury setting,” she adds. Our goal is to help families stay together whether it’s the boomerang young adults or move-down parents. It’s ex tremely rewarding to help families stay together in the high price Bay Area.

Now is the time to act — both for Anderson and homeowners — to take advantage of new, visionary California legislation that enables ADUs to be built quicker and with fewer jurisdictional costs. There is no better time to enhance your financial situation and improve your property. California has $100 million available in grants for ADUs, max $40,000 per family, to help finance over 2,500 ADUs. Homeowners with low- or moderate-income levels may be eligible for this grant.

Senate Bill 9, also known as SB 9, just went into effect at the beginning of 2022 and Perpetual Homes has already leveraged this bill to provide fee simple lot splits with Perpetual Homes ADUs for some of their clients. SB9 gives homeowners in many single-family zones the green light to build additional units on their current property or subdivide their land into two separate parcels and sell off one of the lots. Before this legislation, ADUs were desirable but often impossible and very expensive (fees over $100,000) to build on most lots. Whether you’ve thought about a multi-generational home, a guesthouse, or a rental income stream, SB9 offers the opportunity to build more on your existing home-site.

With decades of experience in real estate development and market analysis, Anderson acquires the highest-quality homes at the most afford able prices for her clients. Her vast network of prefabrication companies, drafters, and general contractors make the process of building an ADU much smoother. ADU prices start in the mid $200,000s.

Whether you want to increase your property value, add a new source of income or provide housing for family members or renters, contact Perpet ual Homes ADU for more information! Call 925-980-2351 or visit www. perpetualhomesadu.com to learn more. DL1557865 Advertorial

RIDES TO SENIORS AND VETERANS

Mobility Matters is a nonprofit agency that gives rides to seniors and veterans in Contra Costa County. Volunteer drivers are needed to escort seniors to medical appointments and grocery shopping. Volunteers must be 25 to 75 years old.

Please call Mobility Matters at (925) 284-2215 for more details. You can learn more about Mobility Matters at www.mobilitymatterscc.com

RESTAURANT & CATERING COMPANIES, HELP!

Local restaurants and catering companies are invited to donate their surplus food to White Pony Express (WPE). WPE will distribute it upon receipt, free of charge, to nonprofit partners and school pantries that serve our hungry neighbors. Help WPE end food insecurity in our county and reduce the production of methane gas caused by rotting food in landfills.

If your business would like to donate, email donatefood@whiteponexpress.org

For more information, visit www.whiteponyexpress.org/food-rescue.

Perpetual Homes’ two-bedroom Perpetual Lux ADU is a gorgeous single-family style ADU.

ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)

By Roger Smith, President EUROPEAN MODEL TRAINS AT ALAMO

PLAZA

European Train Enthusiasts (ETE), in association with the Alamo Improvement Association (AIA), will be operating model trains on a beautiful European themed layout November 25th - December 31st, in Suite 170A (next to Orange Theory) in the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center in Alamo.

The display will be open Wednesday through Sundays 10AM - 5PM, plus Monday and Tuesday December 26th and 27th. Admission is $5 and under 6 are free. Proceeds benefit the American Cancer Society.

BOUNTY OF PRODUCE AT FARMERS MARKET

With summer fruit now a sweet memory, your Alamo Farmers’ Market has a great selection of fall/ winter produce options. Stop by and experience live music while you stroll the bountiful produce and other goodies for sale. Vendors welcome the oppor tunity to discuss their businesses and goods with you.

The Market is open rain or shine on Sundays from 9AM – 2PM in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd., near Bank of America.

IS YOUR AUTO OR HOME A TARGET FOR “CRIMES OF OPPORTUNITY”?

Do not allow yourself, family, auto, or home to become victims of criminals that can be traveling our roadways, streets, and shopping centers.

Here is a detailed list of DOs for you to save and reference.

For Your Auto: Install and maintain auto security systems on your vehicles. Secure valuables in a safe place where they will not be seen. Remove, cover from view, turn off or turn off bluetooth for laptops, smart devices, and cell phones. Hide backpacks, purses, wallets, checkbooks, and any other items of value. Always lock doors and roll up windows. Consider installation of a catalytic shield/guard or etching your Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) onto your converter. Park in well-lit areas next to the curb instead of a driveway, if not able to park in a garage

For Your Home: Install and maintain outdoor security lighting and indoor security systems. Post signs and window stickers. Install and maintain security cameras at points of access. Make sure cameras have adequate lens definition for facial and license plate recognition and hard drive devices are adequately hidden or on-line and off-site at another secure location. Lock doors and windows. Consider having a dog or other early warning system.

When Traveling: Alert the Alamo Sheriff’s Office or Danville Police De partment and complete their Vacation House Check form. Alert the post office to place a Vacation Hold on mail delivery. Alert a neighbor to remove any package or newspaper deliveries on a daily basis.

For Package Delivery: Consider having packages delivered to your office location instead of your home.

Report Suspicious Persons and activities: Alamo Sheriff 925-6462441, Danville Police Dispatch 925-820-2144. Emergencies 911.

INTERESTED IN NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH?

In Alamo: Contact Christina Land-Winters, Community Services Unit, Sheriff’s Office 925-313-2682. In Danville: Contact Lindsey Ortez, Community Service and Crime Prevention Coordinator, Danville Police Department 925-314-3717.

AIA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY

Now in its 67th year, AIA, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, has the longest history of serving our community and helping shape it into “the place where we love to live!” Visit www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to local residents, membership forms, and more.

Visit www.AlamoVision2040.org for more information, a citizen’s survey, and community poll.

GARDEN OF D’LIGHTS

The public is invited to explore the 4th annual Ruth Bancroft Garden’s exciting winter holiday event, “Garden of D’Lights.” Visitors of all ages will be in awe as they wander through three acres of glowing paths and discover the colorful, botanical sculptures created by thousands of lights and lasers on cacti, succulents, trees, and more. Each year more and more lights and lasers have been added and this year there will be a dazzling display of sculptural art from local artists as well. It is a must see exhibit this holiday season!

The Garden will be open Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings through January 8th. Timed entrance times are 5:30PM, 6:30PM and 7:30PM .

For details and tickets, visit ruthbancroftgarden.org/garden-of-dlights

For questions, email lights@ruthbancroftgarden.org or call 925-515-1430.

The Ruth Bancroft Garden and Nursery is located at 1552 Bancroft Rd. in Walnut Creek.

The Ruth Bancroft Garden is a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization with a mission to preserve Ruth Bancroft’s example of exceptional design and expansive water-conserving plant collection for the enjoyment and education of the public.

ASSISTANCE LEAGUE ANNOUNCES SCHOLARSHIPS

APPLICATIONS FOR 2023-24

Since 1999, Assistance League® of Diablo Valley’s Scholarships Program has provided financial and emotional support to Contra Costa residents who are high school, community college, and university students as well as returnees to the academic community. In 2022, $206,000 was awarded to 53 honorees, each of whom expressed a desire to advance through education by maintaining a designated grade point average, volunteering in campus and community projects, and charting an academic timeline.

Student scholarships for 2023-24 are now available for graduating high school seniors applying to four-year colleges/universities, community college students transferring with junior-level status to four-year colleges/universities, and to current and former foster youth applying to four-year colleges/univer sities, community colleges, or vocational training programs. A Return to School scholarship is also available.

A fill-in enabled application form will be provided for each scholarship. To learn more, please visit assis tanceleague.org/diablo-valley, and press the “Scholarship Applications” command at the top, center of the screen.

“TOWN TALKS” WITH DANVILLE MAYOR

Danville’s Mayor, Newell Arnerich, hosts the monthly “Town Talks with the Mayor” series on the first Friday of each month via Zoom.

Community members are encouraged to join the discussions. Participants can ask questions via chat or email questions ahead of time to towntalks@danville.ca.gov Mayor Arnerich invites guests to discuss various topics of interest to Danville residents. Recordings are at www. DanvilleTownTalks.org/town-talks-with-the-mayor where you can find all the information for this program, including previous recordings.

For more information, contact Diane Friedmann at 925-314-3378 or dfriedmann@danville.ca.gov

CLIP NOTES

By Jody Morgan

Lighting the big oak trees traditionally marks the start of the holiday season in Danville and Alamo. Although Danville’s oak was already over 150 years old when the town was founded in 1858, it’s a youngster by comparison to some of its relatives. The Pechanga Great Oak in Temecula, California, a coast live oak (Quercus agrifolia) estimated to be as much as 2,000 years old, is thought to be the oldest living oak in the world. The Pechanga tribe believes oaks embody their people’s most admirable attributes: wisdom, strength, de termination, and longevity. To Ancient Greeks, who considered oaks sacred to Zeus, the trees symbolized justice and moral rectitude.

Indigenous people across North America made practical use of the bounty provided by numerous oak species. Processing acorns for human consumption is a time-consuming proposition. In Indian Uses of Native Plants, Edith Van Allen Murphey writes: “Black acorns were the favorites in northern California. Tan oak acorns came next, and white oaks last. When acorns were gathered each kind was kept separate, but preparation was the same for all. The acorns were soaked overnight, which caused the shell to split open. Old women then picked out the kernels. Even the blind ones could do this.”

Highly nutritious once the toxic tannins were removed, the ground acorn meal was used in a variety of ways. A final northern California procedure imparted a spicy taste. “After the acorn meal was ground, it was leached to take the bitterness out in the following manner: a frame was prepared with incense cedar twigs laid overlapping, like shingles on a roof, the acorn meal was spread out on the frame, and water poured through the meal repeatedly, until the meal turned pink, when it was dried and kept until used.”

Estimates on the number of oak species in the world range from 450-600. As keystone species essential to supporting the biodiversity that makes Earth a viable planet, all oaks support a wide range of lifeforms. In The Nature of Oaks, Professor Douglas Tallamy notes: “We cannot casually accept the loss of oaks without also accepting the loss of thousands of other plants and animals

VETERAN SERVICE ORGANIZATION MEETINGS

Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) meet at the Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley, located at 400 Hartz Avenue in Danville, except as otherwise noted.

• American Legion Post 246 meets on the first Wednesday of each month (except August) at noon. For information, visit www.americanlegionpost246. org, email commanderpost246@gmail.com, or call 925-272-8480.

• Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 75 of San Ramon Valley meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30PM. For information, visit vmbsrv. org or email info@vfwpost75.org

• Viet Nam Veterans of the Diablo Valley meets on the first Thursday of each month at 5PM at Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. For information, visit http://vnvdv.org/index.html or call 925-838-6445.

• Marine Corps League Detachment 942 meets on the fourth Saturday of each month at 8:30AM. For information, visit www.mcldet942.org

• Blue Star Moms Detachment 101 meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7PM. For information, visit www.bluestarmoms.org or call 925-587-4037.

• Bay Area Navy Nurse Corps Association holds two general meetings in June and December. For information, visit https://nnca.org, or email bannca@nnca.org.

• Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley holds coffees on Saturdays from 9AM to noon.

MEALS ON WHEELS VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS

Meals on Wheels (MOW) Diablo Region has many volunteer opportunities to aid seniors in our communities. Do you have a few hours a month to spare?

Become a home meal delivery driver and assist in getting prepared meals to those in need. The Friendly Visitors, Friendly Callers, and Friendly Helpers programs check in on seniors and also can assist them with everyday errands, such as grocery shopping or picking up medications at a local pharmacy.

For more information, visit www.mowdiablore gion.org/get-involved, or contact Eileen Stephens at estephens@mowdr.org , or 925-482-2622, or Tuyet Iaconis at tiaco-nis@ mowdr.org or 925-891-4872.

that depend on them. Oak declines in the United Kingdom, for example, threaten the survival of some 2,300 other species.”

California’s Valley Oak, Quercus lobata, is found in both woodland and riparian forests. Large, lonely specimens occupying open fields spread dramatic corkscrew limbs. The USDA Forest Service website asserts: “Collectively, valley oak riparian forests support 67 nesting bird species, more than any other habitat for which data are available.” The state-threatened and state-endangered birds dependent on oak habitats include Swainson’s hawk, the greater sandhill crane, and the yellow-billed cuckoo. Cavity-nesting and cavity storing birds and mammals need oak habitats to thrive. Animals favoring foraging on oak seedlings and acorns range from black-tailed deer to pocket gophers.

In The Hidden Life of Trees, Peter Wohlleben explains that heavy-fruited trees like oaks depend on animals to slowly extend their range of influence. “The jay transports heavy seeds the farthest. It carries acorns and beechnuts a few miles away. The squirrel manages only a few hundred yards, whereas mice bury their supplies barely more than 30 feet from the tree.”

Tallamy began with identifying the number of caterpillars (the soft-bodied baby butterflies and moths most terrestrial birds require to feed their young) present on a white oak he grew from an acorn. Expanding his first discovery into a formal scientific project, he reports: “Our early work showed that oaks in the Mid-Atlantic region supported hundreds of caterpillar species -- 557 to be exact -- and 934 species nationwide, making oaks by far the best plants to include at home if you want to support food webs (Nature’s Best Hope). Oaks perform many additional ecological services. “Many species are massive and sequester tons of carbon in their wood and roots, and they pump tons more into the soil.” Oak canopies break the force of pounding rainfall preventing soil compaction. Their extensive root systems reduce erosion. The leaf litter at their bases is home to hundreds of species of beneficial soil-dwelling ar thropods, nematodes, and other invertebrates.

Don’t have room in your yard for a large living wildlife hotel and multi-story birdfeeder? In Nature’s Best Hope, Tallamy lists several small oaks native to California. Most are not readily found in the nursery trade, but the adaptable leather oak (Quercus durata), possibly hosting 166 butterfly and moth species, is available and can be grown in a container.

DISCOVER DIABLO

Save Mount Diablo’s (SMD) Discover Diablo program offers an annual series of free activities that include hikes, family walks, rock climbing events, trail runs, mountain biking events, property tours, and more. Join SMD in exploring the Bay Area’s beautiful wild lands and open spaces!

Discover Diablo is a public outings program led by staff and volunteer naturalists that offers various outdoor activities including guided interpretive family walks, hikes, and property tours. These events are open to any and all trailblazers looking to get out in nature. All hikes are free but in order to create the best experience and least impact on the environment, capacity is limited and advanced registration is required.

Property tours are led on SMD conserved sites. These are unique opportunities to explore privately-held lands that are otherwise closed to the public. Join these tours to learn more about the special ecological and cultural features of each conserved site.

The goal of Discover Diablo is to connect people to nature through outdoor recreation and to build awareness of both the land conservation movement and the importance of permanently protecting open spaces. Through this program, the aim is to reach new audiences, grow the membership base, and spark a passion for Diablo’s wild, natural lands in the youngest of trailblazers.

To learn more visit savemountdiablo.org/activities.

To place an ad, share a story, or find more information about our paper, contact us at 925.405.6397 or editor@yourmonthlypaper.com .

TECHNOLOGY MATTERS

GREAT CUSTOMER SERVICE

By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.

It is refreshing to be in a position to report some thing positive in the world of technology, particularly in the area of customer service. It brings me great joy to present you with a happy story from Apple today, one of a superior customer support experience. I was blown away, so I’ll share the details.

My problems began on a recent trip. My laptop lived in my backpack together with my paperwork. During my trip I received a CD from someone and carelessly threw its case into the storage space where my notes and computer resided. I thought it would just slide in. This is the point in the story where we’re gently reminded to be “mindful” in all things we do. I was not mindful. I just tossed it. And, it did slide in, because it landed in between my laptop screen and keyboard!

My carelessness was appropriately rewarded because, as I packed my bag and shouldered it in cars and through airports, the CD busted my very new laptop screen. I didn’t realize something was wrong until I got home and needed to use the laptop. After testing it with an external monitor, I deter mined the screen on this 2021 MacBook Pro laptop was unusably fractured.

I dreaded engaging Apple because I thought they would be like the rest of the poor support experiences I’ve had lately. I thought it would be like getting one of those sticky-sweet-polite, not-so-great-English-speaking support agents who is very kind, however not very empowered to do much of anything, and full of platitudes, while repeating everything I say back to me. Cautious, and deciding it was easier to type than talk, I ended up in a chat session from Apple’s support website and messaged with a guy based somewhere in the US. We’ll call him “Joe.”

Joe was so easy to work with. He needed to confirm the problem, yet he didn’t belabor the diagnostic process. The screen’s broken? OK. That estab lished, he apologized in advance for the expense and told me how much the repair would be. Ouch. Well, I guess paying that price was my “tax” for not

SRV GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

The San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society (SRVGS) was organized in 1985 to provide its members with resources, assistance, and educational opportunities that help them successfully research their ancestry. The group publishes a monthly news letter and offers monthly meetings of small groups with common interests to discuss their specific areas of research. SRVGS also provides resources ranging from a large selection of reference books to information on local genealogical libraries.

To become a member of SRVGS, visit srvgensoc.org and click on the “Join SRVGS” tab on the left side of the home page. For questions about the group, email president@srvgensoc.org.

VETERAN SERVICES BRING THE “OFFICE” TO YOU

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 one-on-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.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

being careful with my laptop. He then took me through the entire process of preparing my laptop for them to successfully service it at their site.

The first step was to identify the main account and password so they could get into it. Next, he wanted to ensure I knew the machine’s storage might be wiped, so he had me make sure my data was backed up before they touched it. Next, he had me make sure the “Find My” application was turned off on the Mac and in iCloud because when it’s turned on it precludes certain service op erations. Finally, they need the encryption turned off. I did so, then he was able to verify these steps were taken through my iCloud account, which was helpful.

He then emailed me a payment link and I proceeded to enter my credit card. He saw when the transaction was complete, then initiated having a shipping box sent to my home to collect my broken computer. All of this happened on a Tuesday evening. On Thursday I received my box. I immediately packed up my laptop and re-shipped it that day. They received it in Texas on Friday. In less than an hour they replaced the screen and re-shipped it. It was back in my hands mid-Saturday. The process was so crisp and efficient. How would I rate my service? Ten out of ten.

I think this is a huge reminder how much people and real human con versations matter when working with clients. Right now, I’m working with a major telephone vendor to have a fiber optic cable installed for a client. Their customer service has been abysmal. I had hoped they had improved since last using them 10 years ago; I was disappointed. Not only will nobody take responsibility or initiative to solve a minor problem in the installation, they have apparently forgotten how to speak in normal English and instead use telephone industry jargon to discuss everything. I need an interpreter. I’m in the industry and can follow what they are saying about ten percent of the time. Imagine how hard this is for my client.

So, we have a super success story from Apple, and a terrible experience with this major phone vendor. Actions have consequences, and both these experiences will inform where we spend our resources in the future.

Another company that provides really great personalized customer service is Portable CIO. We can be reached at 925-552-7953, or by emailing info@ pcioit.com. Give us a shout if you have any questions or problems in your computing environment. Advertorial

GO '10-8' WITH CHIEF SHIELDS

The Shelter in Place order 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 comes to you via Facebook Live in a 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. Commu nity members can email questions to mailbag@danville.ca.gov. Questions can also be asked in the comment section on Facebook Live. The Facebook page is “Danville Police Department.”

CPC SENIORS

CPC Seniors is a gathering of senior adults who like fellowship, to have fun, and to make new friends! The group meets in the multi-purpose room of Com munity Presbyterian Church (CPC) located at 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville, from 10:30AM – 12:30PM on the first and third Tuesdays, September to May.

Please join in! The first Tuesday of the month offers BINGO and prizes, while the third Tuesday of the month generally has a variety of presentations or entertainment. A delicious home-made lunch is provided for $4.

For more information, visit www.cpcdanville.org/seniors or call Cyndi Davi at 925-827-5525 x 418.

Many of our neighbors cannot afford to feed and clothe themselves or their families. There are volunteer opportunities to help via White Pony Express (WPE). Headquartered in Pleasant Hill, WPE 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. Hundreds of individual, family, and group volunteers make WPE possible. If you are interested in volunteering, visit whiteponyexpress.org/volunteer or call Mandy Nakaya, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at 925-818-6361 or email Mandy@whiteponyexpress.org

EFFECTIVE WEALTH MANAGEMENT FOR THE NEWLY WEALTHY

By Peter T. Waldron, Managing Partner of Waldron Partners

“All you need is the plan, the road map, and the courage to press on to your destination.” ~ Earl Nightingale Maintaining wealth is a challenging task under the best of circumstances, but it can be especially challenging after a windfall. Whether you have a company that just sold or went public, it is important to take steps to protect your finances and make sure that your new-found riches do not disappear as quickly as they arrived. Here are four tips for maintaining your wealth after a windfall. When it comes to spending money, it is important to take a step back and think about what you need and want. When you see something new that you want, it can be easy to spend too much money on it without realizing it. Pause and brainstorm what you need before making exorbitant purchases. This will assist you in remaining under budget while also guaranteeing that your purchases are items that you desire or need. The next time you want to impulsively spend, hold off for a moment to think it through--you will be happy you made the more mindful choice.

With investing, there are several things to keep in mind, but stability and growth should be at the top of your list. You want to ensure that your finances are going to be stable when you need them. Achieving stability in your in vestment portfolio can be done in diverse ways. You could buy stocks that have traditionally been known for yielding dividend income. These stocks typically do not see as much price fluctuation and offer the potential of capital appreciation over time. Another method would be to put money into mutual funds which pool together distinct types of investments. This is designed to help reduce the volatility of your portfolio over time, while still allowing room for growth on your original investment sum. When you invest your money, aim for stability and growth instead of other factors.

Anyone who has ever received a windfall of cash knows the feeling of excite ment that comes with it. However, that feeling quickly wears off when the reality sets in that the money needs to last. Budgeting is one of the best ways to make sure you do not overspend. That may sound like boring advice, but it is sound advice, nonetheless. By creating a budget, you will be able to see exactly where your money is going and adjust accordingly. And while it may be tempting to splurge after receiving the proceeds of your company sale, remember that it is important to stick to your budget to keep your finances healthy overall.

Financial planning is a necessary step that anyone should consider after receiving any large amount of money. By carving out some time to analyze your present finances and set future goals, you can help safeguard yourself and those you care about from potential money troubles later down the road. It is important to take a close look at your current income and expenses, so you can set some achievable goals for the future. If you are not sure where to begin, there are plenty of financial advisers who can help create a plan tailored specifically for you. By planning, you will be better equipped to manage whatever unexpected challenges come up in life.

Keep in mind, if you want to prosper with money, it is crucial to take your time and think about what you are doing. Do not let the original exhilaration of having extra cash fade away - stay faithful to your budget and remember why you are saving in the first instance. And lastly, do not forget that wealth is not everything. Be giving with your time and assets and concentrate on creating a life that brings you fulfillment. With these things at the forefront of your mind, you will be well on your way to maintaining financial success!

“Success is the progressive realization of a worthy goal or ideal.”~ Earl Nightingale

We can help you with your financial situation. You do not want to go through life wondering what could have been.

To schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation, please contact me at 925-708-7397 or email peter.waldron@lfg.com.

Peter T. Waldron, California Insurance License #0E47827, is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offers investment advisory services through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Fi nancial Advisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Waldron Partners, 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 190 PO Box 528, Alamo, CA 94507. Waldron Partners is not an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors. Insurance is offered through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc., and other fine companies. This material is for use with the general public and is designed for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, tax, or direct investment advice. Lincoln Financial Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice. CRN-5189571-111622. Advertorial

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NEEDLES DROPBOX

If you treat a medical condition such as diabetes or cancer that requires the use of a needle, and you need to dispose of the used ones, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District offers a convenient and no-cost way to get rid of your “sharps.”

Working together, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, the City of San Ramon, the Town of Danville, Allied Waste Services, and Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority hope to reduce the risk of needle sticks in our community.

Waste workers are exposed to potential needle stick injuries and potential in fection when inappropriate containers break open inside garbage trucks or sharps become exposed when sent to recycling facilities. Used needles can also lead to painful infections and transmit serious diseases, such as HIV and hepatitis.

A Needles Drop Box is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The box provides for the safe, secure, and environmentally-responsible collection and disposal of needles, syringes, and lancets. The drop box is located near the front door of the Fire Protection Districts’ Administrative Office Building, located at 1500 Bollinger Canyon Road in San Ramon.

FUN AT THE DANVILLE SENIOR CENTER

The Danville Senior Center offers a Monday Senior Lunch program. Lunches are provided in partnership with Café Costa and served at noon each Monday. Participants can enjoy puzzles and board games in the Community Hall at the Danville Senior Center (located at 115 E Prospect Ave, Danville) before lunch and stay for a free weekly movie following lunch.

Residents wishing to participate will need to complete a County NAPIS form and call in their reservation by noon the Friday before. Forms are available at the Danville Senior Center. The lunch program is provided in partnership with Contra Costa County and has a suggested donation of $3 for those 60 and up. Those under 60 can still enjoy lunch for a $6 fee. Menus are available at www.danville.ca.gov/seniors, and vegetarian options are available by request.

For more information or to call in a reservation, please contact the Danville Senior Center at (925) 314-3430.

INTRA-FAMILY REAL ESTATE TRANSACTIONS

By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.

My law practice focuses primarily on trusts and estates matters, but I also assist clients with various types of intra-family real estate deals. My role can include helping clients evaluate, structure, memorialize, negotiate and implement these transactions.

Below, I give a few examples of projects I’ve worked on, first presenting a somewhat common kind of deal in significant detail (using fictional names):

My elderly client, Millie, asked me to evaluate if and how she might feasibly sell her long-time $1.7 million family home (with no mortgage) to her adult son, Mark, who was divorcing and was interested in making the home his residence. Millie has another child, an adult daughter, Mary. Aside from home equity, Millie had about $750,000 in cash and securities. Millie’s objectives included: i) purchasing and moving into a $600,000 condo, using all cash; ii) not using a large portion of her liquid funds to buy the condo; iii) converting her substantial home equity into meaningful retirement income; iv) enabling her son to live indefinitely in her home; and v) ensuring that the home sale to Mark did not inequitably favor Mark and disfavor Mary.

During in-depth discussions with Millie and her two children, I identified and we brainstormed quite a few alternative ways to approach this. Ultimately, my guidance resulted in Millie financing Mark’s purchase of her home at a small discount ($1.5 million). Mark made a $500,000 downpayment to Millie so it was enough for her to pay cash for the bulk of her condo. Millie loaned Mark the balance of $1 million. I calculated monthly installment payments, using a slightly lower than market interest rate. These payments were relatively affordable to Mark while still generating enough income to help Millie finance her desired lifestyle and potential long-term care needs.

Using new Prop 19 property tax reassessment exclusion rules, Mark benefited from very reasonable property taxes. We worked with Millie’s

CPA to quantify the capital gains tax ramifications, which were modest and acceptable to Millie.

Since this was a sale and not a gift to Mark, Mary was happy for her brother and her mother, each of whose objectives were satisfied by the deal. Upon Millie’s passing, Mark will owe the then-unpaid loaned funds to Millie’s living trust, of which each child will be a 50% beneficiary. Mark can then use personal funds, refinance, or sell the home to pay half of the balance due to Mary (Mark will be entitled to the other half).

Here are a few other brief examples of real estate transactions I’ve handled recently, each of which helped my clients enhance the lives of their children and reduce potential federal estate tax liability:

1) Gifting of a $1.4 million investment home to my client’s daughter and son-in-law.

2) Establishing and gifting a $4 million personal residence into a specialized kind of irrevocable trust, known as a “Qualified Personal Residence Trust” (QPRT), for the benefit of my client’s two children.

3) Partial loan and partial gift by my client to his son for the purchase of his first home.

It is not a foregone conclusion that intra-family real estate transactions will go smoothly or that problems will get worked out amicably. To that point, about 30 years ago, in the first contested matter I ever handled, I represented a woman who was being sued by her daughter over a real estate transaction between the two of them. Given the close personal/familial relationships and financial considerations at stake (that can include equity; cash flow; property taxes; income taxes; gift/estate taxes; etc.), careful planning with advice and assistance from experienced legal and tax advisors is critical.

|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, 1910 Olympic Blvd., Suite 330, 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.

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Rabbit continued from front page her into our family and home. Some rabbits make great companions to other animals in the household.

East Bay Rabbit Rescue reviewed bunny care with us, so we knew how to properly start off. Instead of a hutch and water bottle, Tansy came home with a puppy exercise pen, litter box, water bowl, and a hideaway. An exercise pen is less expensive than a hutch, while being spacious and easy to maintain. Since most rabbits do not like to be picked up, a bonus is that it is easy for the bunny to hop in and out on their own making it easier to integrate the bunny into a home.

Things that surprised me were that Tansy used a litter box perfectly, she enjoyed hanging out with us humans, and she loved to run around our home. I learned rabbits could be free roaming pets, just like dogs and cats, so that’s what we did. Having a free roam bunny is even more enjoyable because they become a member the family and bond. Rabbits are happiest living as part of the family indoors, just like a house cat! I mean, who wants a rabbit eating from their garden anyway?!

Tansy developed health issues; we lost her after only a couple of years. Our home was empty without a bunny, so we adopted Luna from East Bay Rabbit Rescue. Luna is a big bun, 11 pounds! This big sweetheart has lots of love to share. When one of us comes home after being away, Luna will run to the door to greet us. She likes to be in the living room when we’re enjoying a TV show or playing a game. Most rabbits thrive on being a part of the household action.

Our family learned to love rabbits, every size and breed. And, we’ve enjoyed giving back by volunteering and fostering. Our recent foster, Notch, was a real love bug. He loved to come right up on my lap or on my chest just to get petted. He is very curious, and I would often catch him up on his hind legs checking out what’s in the room. Occasionally, I found him lounging on my bed, or the sofa relaxing, as if I put it there for him. Like most rabbits, he’s friendly towards anyone who wants to give him attention. Fortunately, Notch found his forever home with a couple in Oakland, where he has run of their house now too. And although Notch captured my heart, one of the most rewarding things as a foster is when they are adopted out to loving homes.

As a foster family, we socialize the bunnies to prepare them for their forever home. This is Ali, a lionhead lop, who was recently adopted. Photo by Desiree Gatto.

Current foster bunny, Luna, making herself at home on a chair. Photo by Desiree Gatto.

YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST HOLIDAY NUTRITION SURVIVAL TIPS

By Linda Michaelis RD, MS

We are in a better place with the pandemic. It is time to move ahead with taking care of our health, and that means better nutrition.

I’ve seen many clients who are nervous about having gained weight during the pandemic. They want to enjoy the holidays, but not gain any more. Below are common problems we face during the holiday, and my suggested solutions for each scenario.

WRONG MINDSET

Your mindset going into a party or event can play a huge role in the outcome - whether you allow yourself to enjoy the activity, or end up “beating yourself up” on Monday morning.

I often see this “all or none mentality.” Does this sound familiar? You allow yourself foods that are not part of a healthy regimen, get frustrated with yourself, and then end up binging. I see clients trying to be so strict with what they eat, and this always backfires setting them up for failure and a feeling of being miserable.

Solutions: I mentally walk through events with my clients and show them how to navigate restaurants and parties. We discuss how to give oneself permission to eat foods they enjoy, while learning how to balance the day with high protein and high fiber foods before an event so they will not arrive too hungry.

For breakfast I recommend an egg white omelet with veggies and for lunch 6 oz. of tuna or chicken salad with veggies and coleslaw. This will assure arriving at the event not too hungry.

When at the event make an instant plan after arriving. See what the offerings are. Walk down the buffet and certainly look at the dessert as well.

Stay away from bread, butter, and fruit if you wish to have a dessert as all desserts are similar flour, fat, and sugar.

You don’t have to taste everything that is served. Wait for what you really want, even if it is something high calorie like fettuccine Alfredo. It’s better to have a small portion of something you really like. How often do you order an entrée and you do not enjoy the taste at all? Consider letting the waiter know and substitute for another entrée. Do not get into the habit of eating food you do not enjoy.

EATING MEALS AT ERRATIC TIMES

Being on the go, skipping lunch, snacking all day, and going too long in between meals is a major problem. People go out with friends and eat irregularly. “Going with the flow” and waiting too long between eating can result in low blood sugar and overeating at the meal due to being too hungry.

Solutions: Make sure you have a good meal full of protein, fiber, and fat at the prior meals. Bring portable snacks like nuts, healthy jerky, and an apple. Be more assertive with friends, and let them know when you need to stop to grab a bite to eat.

TOO MUCH BOOZE

Bottom line, alcohol will increase your appetite and cause you to not follow your intentions to eat healthy. Drink calories add up quickly.

Solutions: Alternate water or a sparkling water with your alcohol. Switch to gin and vodka drinks that have no sugar and fewer calories depending on the mixer. Enjoy a martini or drink with lite cranberry juice.

DON’T SIT NEAR THE APPETIZERS

Clients tell me that they often eat too many appetizers such as cheese and crackers and find they are not hungry when the meal is served.

Solution: Don’t waste your calories on these. Wait for the good foods. Place your chair (or stand) far away from the table. Bring a lite appetizer of crudité and tzatziki sauce to help you (and others).

You can enjoy a great holiday season eating foods you love while not gaining any weight. The answer is to plan ahead and mentally prepare what your day will look like. Have prepared tuna, shrimp cocktail, grilled chicken, chicken and veggie salads on hand to grab in between holiday events. Remember, do not go to an event hungry!

I am available to hold your hand this holiday season and help you set up a plan to be successful. I take pride in helping my clients with their health concerns, and making sure they feel confident when attending gatherings.

Nutritional counseling is usually covered by health insurance including ABMG, Aetna, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, CCHP, Sutter, UHC and others. I am happy to call on your behalf and see what your plan offers. Please visit www. LindaRD.com to learn more about my services. 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.

HOPE & HELP FOR HEADACHES & MIGRAINES

By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

If you find yourself or a loved one in the clutches of regular headaches or migraines, it is vitally import ant to understand what you’re experiencing so you can navigate your care properly and emerge from the pattern of pain. Understanding the difference between a headache and a migraine makes all of the difference in the treatment outcome for those who suffer.

WHAT IS A HEADACHE?

Headaches are unpleasant pains in your head that can cause pressure and ache. The pain can range from mild to severe and usually occurs on both sides of the head. Some specific areas where headaches can occur include the forehead, temples, and back of the neck. A headache can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a week. According to the Mayo Clinic, the most common headache type is a tension headache. Triggers for this headache type include stress, trauma, muscle strain, and improper head or neck positioning. Tension headaches aren’t the only type of headache. Other headache types include:

Cluster headaches are severely painful headaches that usually occur on one side of the head and come in clusters. This means you experience cycles of headache attacks, followed by headache-free periods.

Sinus headaches are often confused with migraines. Sinus headaches co-occur with sinus infection symptoms like fever, stuffy nose, cough, congestion, and facial pressure.

WHAT IS A MIGRAINE?

A migraine is usually an intense pounding headache that can last for hours or even days. The pounding or pulsing pain usually begins in the forehead, the side of the head, or around the eyes. The headache gradually gets worse. Just about any movement, activity, bright lights, or loud noise seems to make it hurt more. Nausea and vomiting are common during a migraine. Migraines may happen only once or twice a year, or as often as daily. Women are more likely to have migraines than men. There are different types of migraine headaches. The most common types of migraines are:

Classic migraines start with a warning sign called an aura. These types of migraines are also called “migraines with aura.” The aura often involves changes in the way you see. You may see flashing lights, colors, a pattern of lines, or shadows. You may temporarily lose some of your vision, such as your side vision. You may also feel a strange prickly or burning sensation, or have muscle weakness on one side of your body. You may have trouble communicating. You may also feel depressed, irritable, and restless. The head pain of classic migraines may occur on one side of your head or on both sides.

Rabbit continued from page 22

Common migraines don’t start with an aura. These types of migraines are also called “migraines without aura.” Common migraines may start more slowly than classic migraines, last longer, and interfere more with daily activities. The pain of common migraines may be on only one side of your head. Common migraines are more common than classic migraines.

HOW DO WE TREAT MIGRAINES AND HEADACHES?

The treatment for a migraine is very similar to the treatment for a headache, with the exception of the focus. At Align Healing Center, we treat migraines with a focus on reducing neurological inflammation and increasing circulation. In contrast, with headaches, we focus on the reduction of muscle tension and physical stress. Depending on the individual, a combination of the following therapies are used to break the patient’s pain cycle.

Class IV Laser Therapy: Laser treatments are very effective at treating migraines and headaches. A laser is a form of light therapy that increases blood flow to the affected area in order to release the tight muscle and pump away inflammation that has built up around the nerve. It is a very gentle and relaxing treatment that almost always causes IMMEDIATE relief from the pain.

Gentle Chiropractic Care: This can help to realign vertebrae that have become misaligned and have begun to irritate the nerves in the head and neck. By gently adjusting the neck, the pressure on the nerve is decreased, and symptoms of head aches and migraines will begin to decrease. This maneuver can be done very lightly and can even be done without hearing the “popping” sound.

Specialty Lab Testing: In chronic cases, nutrient deficiencies can be found to contribute to headache and migraine symptoms. By specifically testing for inflammation, vitamins, minerals, amino acids, offending foods, and toxicity, we can pin-point specific issues that are contributing to the migraines or headaches.

Custom Treatment Protocols: Once labs reveal specifics about the patient’s personal status, we go to work creating a custom treatment plan to help the body heal and reduce the irritation to the muscles and nerves.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS THIS TREATMENT?

We have treated hundreds of people suffering from headaches and migraines. Our patients have seen a huge decrease in the incidence and severity of their mi graines and headaches, allowing them to get back to normal life. Everyone responds differently to this type of care, and we find that the longer someone has had this condition, the longer it typically takes to treat. If complete pain relief is possible in your case, it will most likely take a series of visits.

Dr. Niele Maimone, DC of Align Healing Center Maimone Chiropractic Inc. in Danville has been active in natural health & functional medicine since 1999. For more information or to set up a complimentary consult call 925-362-8283 or visit www.alignhealingcenter.com.

The best part about owning a rabbit is the love they give back to you. They know their name, they want to be near you (although not necessarily on your lap), and they become part of your family. You might be surprised to learn that a rabbit could be a perfect pet for you too.

From East Bay Rabbit Rescue, below are suggestions of how you can help during this crisis.

Adoption: Check out our avail able bunnies at https://www.east bayrabbit.org and fill in an adoption questionnaire.

Fosters: We provide the basic set up. Fosters provide indoor space, a minimum of a 2’ x 6’ for the pen, hay, dark leafy greens, rabbit pellets, and love. We ask for a 4-week com mitment for foster homes. Email us at eastbayrabbit@gmail.com

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Tedros, one of the bunnies currently available for adoption, enjoys playing with his stacking cups.

Transport Volunteers: Our fosters often need help getting their foster bunny from the shelter to their house, to spay/ neuter and adoption appointments. If you have flexible hours and can help from time to time, your contribution would be significant. Email us at eastbayrabbit@gmail.com

Shelter Volunteers: There is a huge demand for shelter volunteers with shelters overflowing and short staffed. Contact your local shelter for details.

Tansy relaxing under the Christmas tree. Photo by Desiree Gatto.

Photo by Angela L.

NEED SOME HOLIDAY GIFT IDEAS?

By Jerome Potozkin, MD

As you’re reading this, the holiday season is upon us. Many of us are about to start scrambling to purchase gifts for people who are very hard to shop for. This can be stressful for some of us, as we know people who seem to already have everything. You can always purchase a gift card, but maybe you want to give something more personalized. If so, I think I can help.

Men like me can be extremely challenging to get gifts for. Maybe your favorite guy has a hobby that can provide some great ideas. If not, have you thought of the gift of skincare? Men are usually not up to speed in this department. Most men don’t want a complex regimen. I recommend the “KISS” approach (Keep It Simple Stupid).

My team is always happy to customize a simple regimen for your favorite guy. I would start with SkinCueticals Physical Matte 50 to be applied each morning. This will provide the daily SPF needed without the white film we often see. In fact, I use this everyday after I shave. I would compliment this with Resveratrol antioxidant gel to be applied at bedtime. Topically applied antioxidants help protect our skin from free radical damage from sun exposure.

This last year my wife and I started our golf journey. Through the years of taking care of many golfers, we finally decided to give it try. We’ve both been bitten by the golf bug. A unique gift for the golfer in your life is personalized golf balls. You can print three lines of text choosing amongst several fonts. It’s up to you what to print, so get creative. These can easily be ordered at GolfBalls.com

There are many options at PotozkinMD SkinCare and Laser Surgery Center for the lady in your life. Our team can compile a kit of skincare products to bring out the best in her skin. We even have the ability to create a customized serum with SkinCeuticals Custom D.O.S.E. HydraFacial is a soothing treatment that is very popular and will have her skin glowing. Still stumped? We have gift certificates that can be used for any service.

Looking for tech gifts? You can never go wrong with anything Apple. One item that I picked up last year is the Beats Fit Pro wireless earbuds. The sound and fit are great and they don’t fall out while working out.

It has been an honor for us to serve the community in 2022. Wishing everyone a joyous, safe, and healthy holiday season.

Dr. Jerome Potozkin is a Board Certified Dermatologist and Board Certified Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon 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

TELECARE CONNECTS WITH THE HOMEBOUND

Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, have been making weekday reassurance calls to seniors and the homebound in our community. Clients can anticipate a friendly exchange of ideas with trained vol unteers who provide high quality, consistent communications. a client cannot be reached, family members will be notified. This service is free! Make that call to get you or someone you know connected! For more information, call 925-9340901. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s other

programs, please visit www.assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley

THE EYE OPENER By Gregory Kraskowsky,

HAPPY HOLIDAYS 2022 AND THE YEAR IN REVIEW

O.D.,

Alamo Optometry

We have come to the end of another year at Alamo Optometry. We have mostly put the fear of COVID behind us; however, it is still a part of our lives since masks are still required in all health settings. As we say goodbye to 2022 and look forward to 2023, we like to look back at the year and forecast what to expect in the year to come.

As always, we need to appreciate that we are still operational, and our patients continue to recommend our practice to their friends and family. Without our loyal patient base, we would not be here. Considering the challenging times, we have had from the pandemic to current economy issues, we are grateful our patients continually patronize our small business. It always feels good to know our team members’ hard work and dedication to quality patient care and exceptional service is appreciated and valued by our patients.

To enhance patient care, this year we have upgraded our Optomap. The updated instrument and software allow us to view and evaluate the retina, blood vessels, and optic nerve even better than before. In addition to better visualization of the retina structures, it is also allowing for improved mon itoring of many conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. We offer this instrument as part of your comprehensive exam in our retinal wellness screening along with Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT). The OCT needs just a few seconds to take an image. It does not require any drops. It uses light (no radiation) to scan the retina and optic nerve. The images this device provides are instrumental in the overall management of the retina and all of its elements. Both tests only take a few minutes to complete, but give very important documentation and monitoring for all systemic and retinal conditions.

For everyone’s safety, we are still following cleaning procedures of all surfaces and glasses in the office. Every piece of equipment, tried-on glasses, and any other point of contact areas are disinfected after each patient interaction. In addition to these cleaning protocols, our mandatory mask wearing and hand washing has 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 and 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) and health savings account (HSA) before the end of the year. The government has a wide range of specified costs that qualify as a medical expense. Included in that list is any vision correction device: glasses, computer glasses, contact lenses, and sunglasses. If your purchase is made by the end of the year, it will count on your 2022 account balance.

We appreciate our patients collaborating with us during this challenging time. Our cleaning procedures and mask wearing are necessary for every one’s health and are required by the state. We have a great community who understands the health crisis and have been more than willing to work with us within the confines of this “new normal.” Our office extends best holiday wishes and a prosperous 2023 to all our patients and the local community.

Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at (925) 820-6622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165, in Alamo. For more information, visit www.alamooptometry.com, and find us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @Alamo Optometry. Advertorial

FACELIFTS

By Dr. Barbara Persons

Let’s talk about facelifts. As we age, skin begins to lose elasticity and our face loses volume. The lower face sags, forming deep wrinkles, and we start to notice loose skin on the neck. The loss of youthful contours in the face are the result of thinning skin, loss of facial fat, gravity, sun damage, smoking, in addition to heredity and stress. While these changes are a natural part of growing older, we don’t have to leave our youthful looks behind as the years pass. With the help of a skilled plastic surgeon, you can take steps to counteract the effects of time and gravity, and restore the naturally vibrant appearance you remember from years ago or even address the early signs of aging before they take hold.

Facelifts produce results that patients consistently find satisfying. The operation, when performed with skill and care, is very safe. Rhytidectomy, which literally means wrinkle (rhytid) removal (-ectomy), is the medical term for the facelift operation designed to remove wrinkles and decrease the sagging that occurs on the face and neck with aging. The key to a facelift is lifting up tissues while restoring lost volume without pulling the face back. It is often said that having a facelift works to “turn back the clock,” helping a patient look like a younger version of him or herself by removing excess, sagging skin, smoothing deep folds, and lifting and tightening the deep facial tissues and muscles. Facelifts are frequently combined with eyelid surgery, brow lifting, laser resurfacing, and fat transfer to achieve facial rejuvenation.

With more meetings held via Zoom, facial rejuvenation is more popular than ever. On camera, skin above and below the eyes tends to droop, making your eyes look small and puffy. Squinting at a screen also causes your forehead to wrinkle, trying to support your eyelids when opening the eyes. Eyelid surgery, called blepharoplasty, removes excess skin and fat and tightens sagging muscle, giving you a younger, sharper look.

Laser resurfacing is also an effective tool in the rejuvenation of aging skin. Resurfacing removes or reduces fine lines, skin discoloration, acne and other scars, and at the same time tightens the skin. The action of the laser encourages collagen production, causing elastic fibers in the skin to increase in number. This means that the skin will have properties more similar to an earlier time in your life. Sun damaged, cigarette damaged, and aged skin is rejuvenated in a fashion, and to an extent, never before attainable with chemical peels and dermabrasion.

Fat transfer to the face revitalizes and corrects volume loss. When combined with a facelift, fat transfer to the face can offer more youthful lips, brows, and eyelids, in addition to stronger cheeks, improved jaw lines, and facial contours that are both natural and youthful.

Once the facelift is complete, excess sagging tissue is repositioned, volume is restored, and the skin is resurfaced. The clock is turned back. Aging will continue from there, of course, but you will look much better at any given age than you would have without the operation. Seeing our own patients around town up to 15 years after surgery demonstrates longterm results. To continue the conversation about facelifts and other ways to look your best, please give us a call to schedule your consultation today!

Barbara L Persons, MD, FACS is a Board Cer tified 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 info@personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial

Meet Dr. Yvonne Hyland & Her Family

Dr. Hyland has been in private practice since 2000. She received a DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas. Following dental school, she pursued a hospital-based General Practice Residency at the Vet eran’s Medical Center in West Los Angeles for two years. Realizing this was not the end of her formal education, she completed a successful three-year post-graduate surgical residency in periodontics. Dr. Hyland’s experience and professional skills excel in every aspect of dentistry from general cosmetic procedures to complex surgical cases. She has placed thousands of successful dental implants and is highly trained in all phases of gum disease therapy, tissue and bone grafting procedures, and wisdom teeth extraction.

Dr. Hyland understands the desire to provide the very best care for the entire family. As a resident of Alamo, she strives to meet community needs by providing unparalleled services for those seeking the finest complete dental care in one location. In her spare time, Dr. Hyland enjoys spending time with her husband Terry, two sets of twin boys, and their three rescue dogs adopted from ARF.

Meet Dr. Kiranjot Dyal

Dr. Kiranjot Dyal graduated from the University of California, Davis, with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cellular Biology. Thereafter, she attended Western University of Health Sciences, College of Dental Medicine to earn her degree in Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) and further extended her studies by completing a general practice residency at UCLA- Harbor Medical Center, where she earned the “Resident of the Year” accolade. Dr. Dyal’s passion for growth in her dental skills shows as she continues educating herself through various classes and up to date courses.

Dr. Dyal’s goal as a dental provider is to provide compassionate care for her patients and make them feel as stress-free as possible in the dental chair. She believes that knowledge is power and understanding what treatment is needed, why it's necessary, and how it can be prevented in the future is extremely important in bettering the overall oral health of her patients and the general public. Dr. Dyal strives to build a trusting and genuine relationship with her patients and their family and friends to create a comfortable dental home for the community she treats.