editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
April 2014 Raising a Guide Dog Puppy
A cute puppy always grabs people’s attention. Danville resident Yvonne Gilchrist and her family have raised five puppies over the last few years. The family provides love and training for the puppies for about a year, and then the dogs return to where they were born at the Guide Dogs for the Blind (GDB) facility in San Rafael where they will finish their training and hopefully be qualified to be put into service as a guide dog for those who are site impaired. Locally, Yvonne has helped San Ramon Valley Unified School District write, and put in place, a policy to get puppies in training into the schools alongside their puppy raisers. The Mat and Ross Gilchrist bring their GDB lab experience of being in the schools Harry to the airport. helps the dogs learn and adapt to new situations every day. Alongside the puppy raising, and with a photographic eye, Yvonne has published a book about the dogs and the job they do. The book, Harry - A Puppy with a Special Job to Do: A photo guide to raising a guide dog puppy, is available at www.amazon.com. The book is a fun and informative photo-story of a guide dog puppy called Harry. It shows all the training Harry has to do before he can do the special job of being a guide dog. All proceeds from the sale of the book are being given to Guide Dogs for the Blind to support puppies in training. The book has also been approved to be in all the libraries in the district, and a copy Yellow lab Mazda in his puppy has been donated along with an assembly jacket and gentle leader. opportunity to read and teach kids about their role in helping with public awareness. For more information about GDB, visit www.guidedogs.com. Odyssey of the Mind team, Fear the Brain, took 1 st place in their problem (It’s How We Rule) and division on March 1 st , and will compete at the state level on April 5th. The team is excited this year to have sponsorship from the Alamo Rotary. Pictured left to right: Ellery Lewis, Sae Joon Oh, Kieran Woerner, Hayden Neustadt, Cayla Quinn, and Kristian Woerner.
Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA
ECRWSS
Serving Danville Bringing Back the Natives: Gardens Good for Life By Jody Morgan
Each of the 35 gardens on the Tenth Annual Bringing Back the Natives Garden Tour offers a different perspective on how the owner’s lifestyle has been enriched by trading a traditional home landscape for an eco-friendly habitat. Open free from 10am to 5pm on Sunday, May 4th, gardens range from new installations professionally designed to mature masterpieces created over the course of decades by self-trained amateurs. More than 40 short talks offered throughout the day touch on reducing water bills, luring birds and butterflies to your yard, eliminating the need for pesticides, and choosing native plants to suit your personal priorities. Requisite pre-registration gives participants a chance to thoughtfully plot their self-guided day. Kathy Kramer had no idea that organizing the event Judy Adler in her lathe house where she offers would evolve into a full-time workshops on sustainable gardening practices. volunteer job when she launched the first tour as a reaction to her own frustration at the lack of readily available information. “After reading Sarah Stein’s Noah’s Ark in the early 1990s, I was eager to turn the small garden space around our home into a habitat for wildlife,” Kramer recalls. “Unfortunately, at that time, finding native plants and advice on which native plants to select proved difficult. I wanted to make the process of gardening with natives easier for others.” A tour of pesticide-free gardens in Portland, Oregon inspired her to develop an East Bay version, focusing on the use of American Lady butterfly visits verbena. locally appropriate native plants to create water-conserving, pesticide-free, wildlife-welcoming gardens. Kramer characterizes the start-up process the first year as “horrific,” but her diligence was rewarded by an overwhelming response. Aiming to get 1,500 attendees, Kramer was delighted when 5,000 people registered for the inaugural tour. What can you save by adhering to principles exemplified in tour gardens? A Volume V - Number 6 nine-year study of two adjacent Santa Monica 3000F Danville Blvd. #117, bungalows found the native plant garden used Alamo, CA 94507 83% less water, generated 56% less green waste (925) 405-6397 and required 68% less maintenance than the tradiFax (925) 406-0547 tional lawn with a modest border of exotic plants. Most yards don’t require the massive move- Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher editor@ ment of materials needed to revamp Kramyourmonthlypaper.com er’s 40’ x 50’ backyard. In 2009, she and her husband Michael May followed advice The opinions expressed herein belong the writers, and do not necessarily from two designers who regularly donate toreflect that of Danville Today News. Danville Today News is not time to the tour: Michael Thilgen and Kelly responsible for the content of any of Marshall. Forty thousand pounds of concrete the advertising herein, nor does
See Natives continued on page 22
publication imply endorsement.
Page 2 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Boulevard View
By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
As we approach Earth Day I think of the impact my family and I make in the world when we consume something. As my refrigerator sits with a bounty of delicious takeout food, I notice that they all came home in single use styrofoam and plastic containers. I consider the space they take up and the resources that were used to produce them, and I ponder where the containers will end up next. A line from the documentary Bag It rings in my brain saying, “When we throw something away, what exactly is away?” In reality there is no “away.” Our trash gets kicked down the road. I look at the takeout containers and wonder if there is a way to create some sort of deposit and exchange system with local restaurants which would use reusable, stainless Tiffin boxes that are very popular in the Indian culture. Thinking outside the box, what changes can be made to improve this throw-away stuff and still enjoy the takehome food? During a recent remodel of our backyard a large wallball wall and deck we built when our children were young was dismantled. We were left with a stack of perfectly good lumber. My brother-in-law suggested I sell the wood on Craigslist. I took a new eye to the pile and remembering another project my giant “to do” list thought the wood could be repurposed for our own use into new garden boxes. The wallball wall and deck have now been transformed into six new planter
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
boxes. The boxes have been filled with dirt we sifted from a large compost pile which is rich with our own leaves, grass clippings, and food waste. This new garden area will create food for our family and friends. It will reduce our grocery and transportation expenses, and it will inevitably expand our horizons of new recipes as we find creative ways to consume anticipated bumper crops of squash and tomatoes. I have found guides to freezing our bounty (www.rodalenews.com/ freezing-food?cm_mmc=TheDailyFixNL-_-1622976-_-03062014-_-How_to_ Freeze_Anything,_from_Berries_to_Zucchini) and am ready to preserve crops into next winter in ways I never considered before. After a spring cleaning trip to the dump, I am amazed every time what items get thrown away. I think that at one time people made concious decisions and spent their hard earned money on an item that they are now tired of or has broken in some manner. I think about how all of the items can get reused instead of tossed. Twice a year the garbage hauling companies come through our neighborhoods to pick up our “garbage.” Reuse of the items left has become paramount as they try and realize a higher diversion rate of what goes to the dump. I do a lot of online shopping and receive a plethora of cardboard boxes and packing materials. I used to toss them into the recycling bins, but now I post the boxes and packing materials on Craigslist and have a few “regulars” who gratiously come pick them up so they can use them for their eBay businesses. Receiving the supplies from me extends the life of the materials and saves money and resources for the person who will be using them. For the fourth year the Alamo Women’s Club will host a reuse day called “Together We Give.” The event will be held April 27th from 1-4pm at the Alamo Women’s Club, located at 1401 Danville Blvd. in Alamo. A complete list of items that each philanthropy is collecting for donation can be found at www.togetherwegive.org. Philanthropies include Youth Homes – Foster Care, Hospice of the East Bay, STAND! For Families Free of Violence, VESTIA, Lion’s Club, Brighter Beginnings, We Care Services for Children (ages 2-5), Pledge to Humanity, Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, CARH, Inc., local school music programs, Contra Costa County Sheriff – Valley Station, eWaste, and Canine Companions for Independence. Representatives from these groups will be onhand to help you repurpose items that you no longer want or need. It is a great event to help in keeping items out of the landfill and getting them into the hands of someone who can give them a new life.
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
JARED HIGGINS TEAM Danville Sales
Bed/Bth Sq.Ft. List Price Sale Price $PSF DOM
215 Abigal Cir 4 Anthurium Ct 315 Arlington Ct 114 Boyd Ct 105 Center Ct 3437 Claridge Dr 489 Clipper Hill Rd 626 Crystal Springs Ct 2051 Diablo Rd 702 Dolphin Dr 876 El Pintado Rd 843 El Quanito Dr 404 El Rio 145 Esther Lane 1 Everett Ct 236 Gamay Ct 234 Jasmine Way 67 Larkstone Ct 51 Leonard Ct 35 Lily Ct 7 Lonesome Rd 241 Love Lane 308 Merrilee Pl 200 Montair Dr 639 Morninghome Rd 133 Parkhaven Dr 28 Sage Hill Ct 3845 Sheffield Cir 121 Siena Pl 206 St. Christopher Dr
4/2.5 4/2.5 4/4 3/2.5 4/3.5 5/3 3/2 4/3 4/2 5/3 4/2 5/3 3/2 5/5 6/3 4/3.5 4/3 5/3 3/2 5/3 3/2.5 3/1 5/2.5 5/4 4/2 4/2.5 3/2.5 4/3 4/2 3/2
2396 2624 3096 1932 2156 2952 2040 3281 2900 2724 2205 2517 1170 4000 2316 2810 2579 2755 1483 2893 2796 1500 2810 4290 2113 2446 1862 2738 2007 1970
$825,000 $899,000 $1,199,000 $789,000 $829,000 $1,124,950 $799,000 $968,000 $1,098,000 $1,195,000 $1,300,000 $1,145,000 $599,000 $2,295,000 $899,000 $995,000 $969,000 $1,189,000 $775,000 $898,000 $1,650,000 $899,000 $1,099,000 $1,700,000 $1,049,000 $939,000 $819,900 $995,950 $818,000 $848,000
$851,000 $889,000 $1,233,000 $810,000 $829,000 $1,100,000 $830,000 $1,025,000 $1,135,000 $1,164,011 $1,277,000 $1,230,000 $725,000 $2,300,000 $976,000 $995,000 $970,000 $1,189,000 $811,000 $900,000 $1,160,000 $899,950 $1,142,000 $1,680,000 $1,120,000 $1,025,000 $810,000 $995,000 $840,000 $930,000
$355 7 $339 16 $398 9 $419 6 $385 2 $373 19 $407 6 $312 22 $391 128 $427 28 $579 5 $489 8 $620 9 $575 4 $421 6 $354 58 $376 10 $432 35 $547 6 $311 80 $572 70 $600 7 $406 9 $392 110 $530 7 $419 6 $435 4 $363 8 $419 8 $472 6
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 3
Danville’s Real Estate Expert Danville Today News ~ August 2013 - Page 3
Coming Soon In Northridge! 4 Beds/ 3 Baths
2183 S.F. Call For Details!
The Market is Hot! Inventory is Low. It’s a Great Time To Sell!
Jared Higgins (925) 487-2907
Single family homes sold per MLS 2/25/14 thru 3/24/14 DOM (Days on Market)
jhiggins@rockcliff.com JaredHiggins.com BRE# 01781054
Volunteers Needed for Lend-A-Hand Day
The Town of Danville is looking for individuals to assist as volunteers for this year’s Lend-A-Hand Day. The annual event, now in its 11th year, provides senior citizens with no-cost yearly yard clean-up and minor home repairs in honor of Older Americans Month (May). Volunteers are needed for Saturday, April 26 from 8AM to 3PM. Individuals and groups are encouraged to volunteer to assist with a work crew. To volunteer, visit www.danville.ca.gov/Government/Employment/Volunteer-Opportunities. For questions or to sign up by phone, contact Julie Mason, Volunteer Program Specialist at (925) 314-3458.
John Montgomery Landscape Architect’s 4th Annual Garden Tour Life in the Alamo-Danville Garden
Alamo-Danville Newcomers Club
Please join us for a free Welcome Get Together on Tuesday, April 29, from The Alamo Women’s Club presents PM 7 to 9 . At this gathering will~ meet members andDay learn about the many Together Weyou Give Honoring Earth activities offered by the Club. For further details, call us at (925) 281-1307. PM
Date/Time: Where: How: Why:
Sunday, April 27, 1- 4:00pm 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo Drive through and drop off! Community Donation Day Benefiting Local Charities
The Alamo Women’s Club presents
of Hope~ Together We Give~Be~an Angel Honoring Earth Day
Date/Time: Where: How: Why:
Sunday, April 27, 1- 4:00pm 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo Drive through and drop off! can you help? CommunityHow Donation Day Benefiting Local Charities
On April 27th, clean out your closets, recycle, donate and help others through Together We Give’s Community Donation Day. Please note, since this is an item-specific drive, only items (not impacted by smoking) below will be accepted.
~Be an Angel of Hope~ John Montgomery Landscape Architects is delighted to announce Bikes/protective gear (helmets/pads), storage bins, DVDs for Young Adults, educational CDs/DVDs, gardening kits their fourth annual Garden Tour Fundraiser, Life in the Alamo-Danville & tools, suitcases, large duffle bags and backpacks, sports equipment, arts & crafts supplies, radios with CD player, board games – ages 10-18, bath/face/hand towels, hair care products, digital cameras, clock radios, MP3 Music Garden, presenting five gardens exclusively designed by John MontgomPlayers, non-perishable foods, gift cards for Youth Homes – Foster Care ery. Celebrate spring, chat with John Montgomery, stroll the gardens, Vintage items, linens, jewelry, fashion accessories, housewares for Hospice of East Bay Jewelry, quality fashion accessories, perfume, holiday collectables, children’s books, small and unique home and enjoy live music, nibble goodies from Martini Sky of Danville, and visit garden items, toys and games, new twin size bedding (blankets, sheets, bedspreads, pillow covers, mattress covers), new towels, BART tickets for STAND! For Families Free of Violence The Bounty Garden at this self-guided tour. The event will take place on Useable “sunshine gifts” – a token of concern for Seniors – packs of cards, hand creams, etc., clean/used sleeping AM PM bags, children books, interview and work clothes for Men/Women and professional accessories (shoes, scarves, May 3 from 11 - 4 . Proceeds from the sale of tickets benefit The handbags, jewelry), gently worn coats, hats, mittens for Wardrobe for Opportunity via VESTIA – Volunteer Bounty Garden, The Quincy Lee Foundation, Lazarex Cancer FounEmergency Services Team in Action How can you help? Eyeglasses and hearing aids for Lion’s Club dation, Contra Costa Diapers, baby clothes, baby toys, gently used strollers and car seats for Brighter Beginnings School supplies, binders, nursery rhyme books, puzzles, towels for swim day, heavy push toys such as wagons, County Dog On AprilGuide 27th, clean out yourboard closets, recycle, donate help othersHotthrough Wedress Give’s Community games, sidewalk chalk, sand toys,and buckets and shovels, Wheel cars,Together jump ropes, boys up clothes, men’sis ties for We Care Services for drive, Children (ages 2-5) Raisers, Inc., and Day. Please note,the since this an item-specific only items (not impacted by smoking) below will Shoes, toiletries for Pledge To Humanity (donated to local Communities) accepted. Rotary Club of Alamo. Canned and boxed food for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Books, small pieces of furniture, Ewaste recycling - Computers, monitors, printers, laptops, TVs, iPods, stereos for To sign up, go to www. CARH, Inc. (Community assistance for the disabled) Musical instruments forstorage Local Schools Bikes/protective bins, DVDs for Young Adults, educational CDs/DVDs, garde jm-la.com and click ongear (helmets/pads), Blankets/Quilts for Contra Costa County Sheriff - Valley Station & tools, suitcases, large duffle bags and backpacks, sports equipment, arts & crafts supplies, radios with C Volunteer participation - puppy raising, assistance with special events and donations for Canine Companions for Garden Tour. For adIndependence board games – ages 10-18, bath/face/hand towels, hair care products, digital cameras, clock radios, MP3 ditional information, Players, non-perishable foods, For giftadditional cards information, for Youth Homes Foster Care contact Pamela–Singh at momshouseinc@ymail.com or go to please contact Debbie www.togetherwegive.org for the most current information. Vintage items, linens, jewelry, fashion accessories, housewares for Hospice of East Bay at dblumhardt@jm-la. Jewelry, quality fashion accessories, holiday books, small and unique hom Donation perfume, receipts will be provided collectables, – all donations are children’s tax deductible per government guidelines. com or (925)820-8884. garden items, toys and games, new twin size bedding (blankets, sheets, bedspreads, pillow covers, mattre
covers), new towels, BART tickets for STAND! For Families Free of Violence Useable “sunshine gifts” – a token of concern for Seniors – packs of cards, hand creams, etc., clean/used
Page 4 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
High School Athletes Raise Funds in Wheelchair Blackhawk Republican Women Present Richard G. Fields Basketball Events
Culminating a yearlong project throughout the San Ramon Valley Untied School District, local high school athletes will compete in two fundraising events against a nationally ranked wheelchair basketball team from Berkeleybased Bay Area Outreach & Recreation Program (BORP). Proceeds will benefit the Wheelchair Foundation and BORP. One of the first organizations to offer a Youth Sports Program for children with physical disabilities when it was founded 28 years ago, BORP is still the only Northern California organization providing the same competitive basketball opportunities for students with physical disabilities as those enjoyed by able-bodied athletes in their age groups. April 29: BORP Jr Road Warriors vs SRVHS Basketball Program at the San Ramon Valley High Gym at 7pm May 6: BORP Jr Road Warriors vs Monte Vista Basketball Program at the Monte Vista Gym at 7pm Tickets available at school offices in advance or at the door: Adults $7; Students $5; Under 5 Free.
Chocolat, One Taste is all it Takes
To complement the Spring Wine and Chocolate Stroll taking place throughout Danville on May 8, the Village Theatre, located at 233 Front Street, will be screening the film Chocolat. The film depicts a woman and her young daughter who move to a small French village and open a chocolate shop during Lent. Soon the townspeople are won over by her energy and her delectable chocolates. Starring Juliette Binoche, Judi Dench, Alfred Molina and Johnny Depp, Chocolat was released in 2000 and was nominated for five Academy awards and four Golden Globes, including best picture. This film has some mature themes and language; parental guidance is recommended. The movie starts at 8pm on May 8th. Tickets are now on sale for $5. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www.villagetheatreshows.com or call (925) 314-3400.
If you’re concerned about government’s increasing encroachment on our private property rights and on our economic freedoms, you need to learn from Richard G. Fields what can be done to protect them! Fields, from Pacific Legal Foundation (PLF), will be speaking about Property Rights and Economic Freedom on Wednesday, April 9 at the Blackhawk Country Club Lakeside Grill. Check-in and a social will begin at 11:30AM, and lunch with the presentation will begin at noon. Recently featured on the John Stossel Show, the Pacific Legal Foundation is the oldest and most successful public interest legal organization that fights for limited government, property rights, individual rights, and a balanced approach to environmental protection. Representing all clients free of charge, donor-supported PLF litigates in courts across the country. Recent victories include: 1) the striking down of Kentucky’s moving business cartel, and 2) preservation of a farmer’s due process rights against the Corps of Engineers and the Central Valley Regional Water Control Board. Cost is $25. Please make reservations or cancellations by noon on Monday, April th 7 by contacting Marianne Lyons at 856 Turrini Dr., Danville, 94526, rlyons1009@ sbcglobal.net, or (925) 820-6452. A reservation made is a reservation paid!
Danville Library Book Sale
Friends of the Danville Library invite you to purchase new and used books at their sale being held April 25 - 27. On Friday, April 25 the sale will be open from 9am - 10am for members only, and then from 10am- 5pm the sale will be open to the public. On Saturday, April 26 the sale will continue from 10am- 4pm, and on Sunday, April 27 from 12:05pm - 3:45pm there will be a $5 Bag Sale. The sale will include a selection of items including children’s books, CD’s, DVD’s, and vintage books.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 5 LET OUR EXPERTS SHOW YOU HOW TO MAKE YOUR GARDEN LOOK GREAT!
Time Saving Tools for Your Kitchen
GET THE MOST OUT OF YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN LIVE DEMO SIGN UP TODAY
Come to Alamo Ace Hardware and be part of our vegetable garden clinic. Soda Stream
Swiss Diamond 10” Fry Pan
The Source
Made in Switzerland
NOW $199.00
NOW$129.00
NOW$89.99
SKU 65106287 65107602
REG $149.00
REG. $120.00
SKU 65105554 65105555
SKU 65105054
U-Bundle Nespresso One-touch brewing for espresso
Learn tips from our own pros and a special guest on organic and conventional gardens. Sign up Today! Limited Seating Available.
Lekue Omelet maker
Hibiscus silicone lids
$ 14.99
$8.99 - $12.99
By Charles Viancin
SKU 65108231
Come in and let our Kitchen staa show you all our favorite tools that will make your cooking & entertaining easier & more fun!
Check out our New Gift Registry!
When: Saturday April 5th Time: 9:30AM - 10:30AM Come in Early to get a great seat Reserve: Ask the front desk for more info Reserve Online: www.AlamoHardware.com/Classes Where: Our Alamo Location
Watch Our Recipe Of The Month Video On Our Website: www.AlamoHardware.com/Kitchen
The Kitchen at Alamo Hardware & Garden Center 3211 Danville Blvd. Alamo, CA 94507 · Call (925)837-2420 or Text (925)272-9262
Alamo Ace Hardware Located at 3211 Danville Blvd, Alamo CA 94507 Visit Our Website for more information www.AlamoHardware.com Alamo Hardware OOers An Excellent Handyman Service Text (925)272-9262 To Schedule A Free Estimate
USA Pan * Le Creuset *Emile Henry *Evaco Cast * Mauviel * Bodum *Bo’s Best * Cuisipro * Chantal * Global Amici * Lodge * Microplane * Nespresso * Pillivuyt * Rösle * Swiss Diamond * Wüsthof * and many more
San Ramon Valley Republican Women Federated Presents Jon Coupal: “Is Proposition 13 in Jeopardy?”
The San Ramon Valley Republican Women Federated (SRVRWF) will present Jon Coupal with his talk titled “Is Proposition 13 in Jeopardy?” This year will be a real challenge for taxpayers and the most dangerous year yet for Proposition 13. Jon Coupal, the President of the Howard Jarvis Taxpayer’s Association (HJTA), will talk about HJTA and its dedication to protecting Proposition 13 and promoting taxpayer’s rights. Jon served as Director of Legal Affairs for HJTA, overseeing the organization’s litigation and lobbying efforts. He is a recognized expert in California fiscal affairs and has argued numerous tax cases before the courts. He is a graduate of Marshall-Wythe School of Law at the College of William and Mary, where he received his J.D. degree in 1982. The month of April is a taxpayer’s worst nightmare - come and find out what we can do! The event will be held at Crow Canyon Country Club, located at 711 Silver Lake Drive in Danville on Tuesday, April 22nd. Social time begins at 11:30am, and lunch will be served at noon. The cost is $25. For reservations, call Mary at 925-837-5465 or email srvrwf.lunch@gmail. com. Reservations are due by Friday, April 18th. Save the date for the upcoming Candidates and Propositions lunch to be held at noon on Tuesday, May 27th. For more information about SRVRWF, visit www.srvrwf.org.
Blackhawk Museum Guild Presents Betty Reid Soskin and Rosie the Riveter
On Wednesday, April 9th at 10am the Blackhawk Museum Guild will host 92 years young Betty Reid Soskin. Betty is a little dynamo! She is the oldest National Park Service Ranger in the United States. The portrait of her shows her posing before a poster at the Rosie the Riveter/ World War II Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond where she leads tours, speaks to groups, and answers questions about living and working in the area during World War II. Blackhawk Museum Guild member Boyd Polkinghorn, saw Betty on CBS Evening News recently and noted, “She is well spoken and sharp…and would make a very interesting Guild speaker!” Admission to the talk is free. The museum is located at 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville. For questions, call (925) 736-2280.
7th Annual Wine & Chocolate Stroll ~ Thursday, May 8th, 6pm to 9pm
Enjoy a fun-filled evening of wine tasting, decadent chocolates and shopping during Danville’s Spring Wine & Chocolate Stroll. Select businesses will stay open late to host some of our area's finest wines, which will accompanied by gourmet chocolate samples, compliments of Danville Chocolates. Stroll throughout downtown Danville and enjoy live music and entertainment throughout the evening. Be sure to stop in at your favorite stores to see their latest spring offerings. Purchase $25 tickets online at www.discoverdanvilleca.com.
Page 6 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Enrich the Life of a Student in 12 Days!
For the ninth consecutive year, students from a large high school in the South of France are coming to Danville. Every visit by the students has been better than the last. The students will arrive on April 27th and depart May 9th . The teens stay with local families and have a full itinerary of activities during the days and only require your attention in the evenings and one weekend. The visit is an ideal opportunity to experience another culture and hopefully consider visiting France in return. Anyone interested in hosting a student (or students!) is welcome to participate. For more information or to find out about past year’s programs, please contact Martine Causse (teacher in charge of the group), at caussefly@wanadoo.fr or dachary.martine@orange.fr. The local contact is Danville parent Kevin Dimler, who can be reached at kevindimler@gmail.com or 925-718-5052.
Danville Community Band
The Danville Community Band will present “A Gallery of Sound” on Sunday, April 6th at 2pm at the Blackhawk Automotive Museum located at 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville. Join the band as they trek through and examine “A Gallery of Sound” with selections from film scores to marches. Come see the fabulous auto galleries, tour the current exhibits, and enjoy a concert all in the same building. The concert is FREE with admission into the Museum (free for museum members). For more information, visit www.danvilleband.org. For Museum information, call 925-736-2277 or visit www.blackhawkmuseum.org.
Art Benefit Bash
An Art Benefit Bash will take place on Saturday, May 3 from 6 - 10PM at the Danville Veterans Hall, located at 400 Hartz Ave. Come for great food, great company and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of the poorest of the poor in Sintaro Village, Ethiopia. The event features an auction of acclaimed artists’ work, adventure and getaway packages, live music, drinks, food, and much more. Information about tickets, donations, and art previews can be found at www.sintaroartbash.com. All proceeds from the Bash support Sintaro Village 2020 - a sustained commitment to improve the lives of those in Sintaro, Ethiopia through the building of a water well, a community center, and a school serving K-8th graders. Sintaro Village 2020 is a seven-year commitment by Community Presbyterian Church (CPC) to transform the lives and hearts of villagers through education, clean water, and community development. The Art Benefit Bash gives CPC the opportunity to invite the local community in Danville to join in an evening of good food, good company, and supporting a great cause.
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States
Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW), Post 75, San Ramon Valley - meets every third Wednesday of the month at the Veterans Memorial Building located at 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville, located on the corner at East Prospect Avenue and Hartz Avenue. The next meeting will be held Wednesday, April 16th. Doors open at 7PM, and the meeting begins at 7:30PM. For more information, contact Post Commander Ernie Petagara at (925) 362-9806. Mail to: VFW Post 75 San Ramon Valley, P.O. Box 1092, Danville, CA 94526. Find out more about the VFW and our Post on the internet at www.vfwpost75.org.
Lost Dog!
$50 REWARD
If you find him and your name is drawn!
Danville Dog is Missing He has become lost in this paper!
He is very small, so you will have to look hard if you want to find him.
To be eligible send a letter telling us where you found him, along with your name and address, to: Lost Dog! ~ Danville Today News 3000F Danville Blvd #117 • Alamo, CA 94507
Halina Repp is our winner!
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
GFWC Danville Women’s Club
The 103 year old Danville Women’s Club, a member of the General Federation of Women’s Clubs (GFWC) International and California Federation of Women’s Clubs (CFWC), has many interesting meetings and fundraisers taking place this spring. The April 17th, luncheon meeting features women in the arts with a presentation by the Bedford Gallery. The luncheon will be held at our Clubhouse located at 242 Linda Mesa Ave. in Danville, at 11:30am and lunch will be served at noon. Reservations can be made by calling 925-837-1165. Guests are always welcome and lunch is free for first-timers. Our Garage Sale fundraiser will be held at the Clubhouse on Saturday, April 26th, from 8am to 1pm and includes a wonderful bake sale. You can donate your unwanted items to the sale by bringing them to the Clubhouse on Friday April 25th after 3pm. (NOTE: Clothing is not accepted) Come shopping for bargains on Saturday, and enjoy free coffee. Our biggest fundraising event of the year is a Passion for Fashion luncheon and fashion show benefitting Hospice of the East Bay and other charities. Save the date of Thursday, May 8th for a wonderful fashion show, featuring clothing by the LOFT (Ann Taylor) which is being held at the Blackhawk Country Club. The tickets are $45 each. Gather a few friends or maybe ten friends for a whole table, and come enjoy the festivities. Social time starts at 11:30am followed by lunch and the fashion show. There will be fabulous opportunity drawing prizes donated by Tri-Valley merchants. Fashion Show tickets are available by calling Barbara Chavez at 925-838-0347. Saturday, May 31st is our Shredding for Scholarships Fundraiser. We will have a shredding truck on site at our Clubhouse to destroy your sensitive documents while you watch. For a mere $5 box (banker’s box size) you can help Tri-Valley students with furthering their education. Bring your boxes down between 9am and 12:30pm. For more information about any of these events or the Club, please visit us on the web at www.danvillewomensclub.org, email us at danvillewc@gmail. com, or call us at 925-837-1165. Did you know that our Clubhouse was available for rental? Call or email for complete details.
Kiwanis Named 2014 Charity of the Year
The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley was presented with the 2013 Charitable Organization the Year award by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce at its recent annual State of the Town and Community Awards luncheon. The local Kiwanis Club is most recognized for being the organizer of the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville, an event that they have been conducting since 1975. The parade draws over 40,000 spectators annually, and typically has about 125 entrants. For the past 16 years, Kiwanis has been soliciting financial sponsors for the parade, and dedicating 100% of the net proceeds of the sponsorships to their grants program. Each year, the affiliated San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation conducts a competitive grants application program, and distributes an average of $40,000 to 35-40 local non-profit groups. Since 1998, the Foundation has distributed over $600,000 in the Tri-Valley area to more than 70 worthy non-profits. In addition to the parade and the grants program, the Kiwanis Club also performs numerous annual community service projects in the valley, sponsors Kiwanis Key Clubs at each of the four high schools, and also sponsors two Boy Scout, three Cub Scout Troops and a new Aktion Club for young adults living with disabilities. Kiwanis welcomes prospective members to attend a luncheon program at noon on Thursdays at Round Hill Country Club. For more information visit www.kiwanis-srv.org.
Delta Nu Psi
Service group Delta Nu Psi has sent boxes of “gourmet junk food” to 145 squads located in the War Zone since 2004. The total weight of the food-filled boxes is 28,392 pounds spread over 1,160 packages. Our upcoming collection dates are April 4th at CVS Pharmacy in Alamo and April 11th at Lunardi’s in Danville. The collection times will be from 11am to 2pm at both places. Please come by, grab a list, and shop for our men and women in the War Zone. For more information, visit deltanupsi.org.
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Alternatives to Toxic Pesticides
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 7
By County Supervisor Candace Andersen
Growing up in Hawaii it was common for me to encounter a wide range of insects and pests both inside and outside my home. Weeds grew quickly in the warm tropical environment. Our response? My family had a monthly contract with a pesticide company to spray both the inside and outside of our house with a thick layer of toxic chemicals. Fortunately, these pests and fast growing weeds aren’t as prevalent here in California, but how I manage them now is very different from my childhood in Honolulu. There are some great alternatives available to using highly toxic pesticides. It is important for us to do our part to preserve our environment for future generations. We also want to keep our children, pets, and wildlife safe from harmful chemicals. Since 2001, Contra Costa County governmental departments have reduced their pesticide use by 60%. However, the County’s use of pesticides is only 2% of all reported use in Contra Costa. Before using pesticides or rodenticides around your home or business, consider other options. There are great resources available to help you make an informed decision about how to handle any number of pest problems, whether it is insects, rodents, or weeds. Some alternatives that I have found very helpful include the following. The Our Water-Our World program is a partnership between many different water pollution prevention agencies and stores that sell pesticides to the public. Their goal is to help you manage home and garden pests in a way that protects the health and safety of your family, pets, and the environment. Visit their website at www.ourwaterourworld.org to find materials designed to assist you in finding non-toxic and less-toxic solutions for managing pests in and around your home, including helpful fact sheets and their booklet Pests Bugging You? Choose Products Less Toxic to People, Pets and the Environment! Click on “promotional materials” and then on “booklets.” The University of California Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program has numerous fact sheets on managing pests in and around the home with a minimum amount of pesticide. You can find the fact sheets at www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/index.html. The Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program also has a variety of links to inform you of the types of pesticides on the market with their risks to the environment and your family. They offer non-toxic methods, disposal suggestions, and more. Visit their site at www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/ GENERAL/pesticides_urban.html. Trained volunteers from the Contra Costa Master Gardener Program answer questions from Contra Costa County residents about pests and pesticides during their Help Desk hours, Monday through Friday from 9am to Noon. You can visit them at 75 Santa Barbara Road, 2nd Floor, Pleasant Hill, call them at 925-646-6586; or send an email to ccmg@ucanr.edu. Visit their website at www. Serving Bay Area businesses and residents since 2002 ccmg.ucanr.edu for more information about gardening in Contra Costa. How Can We Help You? The Contra Costa Agriculture Department can also answer questions about pests and pesticides. They have a biologist on-call from 8am to 5pm at their Concord office, 2366-A Stanwell Circle. You can bring your pest problems into the office or call 925-646-5250 for advice. The Mt. Diablo Audubon Society has information on their website regarding a variety of issues that affect our wildlife such as DON’T TAKE THE BAIT! AntiCoagulant Rat Poisons Kill, which you can read on their site at www.diabloaudubon.org/conservation.php#RatPoison. There is also a link to their brochure called Who Will Save Us?, which you can print and distribute to others, also on their site at www.diabloaudubon.org/WhoWillSaveUs-E.pdf. Finally, if you have any of these toxic products on hand, please dispose of them safely by taking the materials to your hazardous waste facility. In Contra Costa County, call 1-800-750-4096 for locations and information or go to www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/depart/cd/recycle/. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, PC / Mac/ Laptops/ Desktops/ Tablets/ Smartphones/ iPads|Repairs Upgrades| Maintenance|Office Moves and Networking | Data Recovery Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon, and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to Virus/Spyware/Adware Removal|Back-up Solutions|Internet/ Cloud Computing contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic Email Solutions|Remote Phone Support |Free Recycling or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos. cccounty.us or 925-957-8860.
Portable CIO Computer Service
Great People. Great Service.
925.552.7953 www.ThePortableCIO.com
Join Portable CIO, Inc. on Facebook!
San Ramon Valley Newcomers
The San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club is holding its monthly luncheon on Thursday, April 17 at Crow Canyon Country Club in Danville. This luncheon is open to current and prospective members in the San Ramon Valley area. For further information or a reservation, please contact Dee Bradshaw at (925)837-9600 or visit www.srvnc.com.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
Page 8 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Great service. even better value. convenient shuttle service to home, the office, bart and bacK.
FactoRy SchEdulEd MaintEnancE
`
lubE, oil & FiltER Multi-Point Performance Inspection Drain and Replace All Engine Oil Install Genuine Factory Oil Filter
Improve mileage and extend the life of your vehicle - follow recommended service schedules
% off 20 RegulaR PRices
diaGnoSiS/ chEck EnGinE liGht inSPEction Let our trained experts perform an initial inspection and diagnosis. We’ll also provide you with the exact cost to perform the repair. No obligation, nothing to buy.
TaX 2995 FREE
$
+
Synthetic oil extra.
For Acura, Honda, Lexus, and Toyota vehicles only. Valid only at THE SERVICE OUTLET on the day of service. Please present coupon when service order is written. Not valid in conjunction with other coupons, offers or discounts. Synthetic oil extra.
Since
1993
lafayette 3360 Mt. Diablo Blvd.
925.283.3133
san ramon
2151 San Ramon Valley Blvd.
925.837.3000
theserviceoutlet.com
Charlotte Wood Middle School
1211138-TSO-ALToday-5x6.25.indd 1
By Christopher George, Principal
11/16/12 9:28 AM
We hope you are enjoying the spring. It is always an action packed time at middle school, and this year is no exception. We’ve had a busy year so far, and as we prepare for the end of this school year, we’ve also begun to look forward to the beginning of next year as well. To begin, a huge congratulations goes out to our Moderate Special Day Class Teacher, Kara Teach. Kara has been with us for three years, and this year she was named the San Ramon Valley Unified School District’s Secondary Teacher of the Year. Kara has built an amazing classroom program and has helped our staff and community in implementing her SDC program at our school. Her compassionate advocacy for her kids has been something that has taught all of our students, staff, and community. We also know that Kara’s work represents the amazing, talented, and devoted staff we have at Charlotte Wood, and we know that it is together that we do our best work. Additionally, we’d like to congratulate Jennifer Torres, who has recently been named the District’s Math Teacher of Special Assignment. Jenny’s leadership in our math department has been invaluable in helping us improve and transition through the Common Core. Recently, we have made decisions with our site council about how to spend our Common Core Technology money. This one time money, which must be spent over the next two years, will be used first to revamp the technology in our library media center in order to enhance the research kids are doing as part of the Common Core standards. This long overdue improvement; overseen by our excellent Library and Media Teacher, Wendy Cunningham; will additionally help modernize our library for our kids and will hopefully result in more students coming to our library more often. We recently ran the field test for the SBAC testing, and thanks to the hard work of Assistant Principal Deb Petish and our Site Technical Support, Krycia Darrin, it was wildly successful. The technology we were able to purchase through the Charger Fund and other sources went a long way in enabling us to perform these tests with a minimal disruption to learning. These new assessments enable students to demonstrate what they can do with much more eloquence and accuracy than the multiple choice assessments they have been used to. While the STAR test certainly served its purpose, these test represent a vast improvement in assessment that will benefit a student’s future education rather than keeping score on their past. I welcome your comments, questions, and concerns at cgeorge@srvusd.net.
St. Isidore Loves Spring!
By Maria Ward, Principal St. Isidore School
April begins with the most important season in our Catholic faith, Easter. Lent is a “Time for Change,” and Easter is a time to rejoice in the Resurrection of Christ. We take time to acknowledge and appreciate the sacrifice Jesus made for us. We start the month with a staff retreat in the afternoon on Monday, April 7th. We find it important to take this time to come together and reflect on what our Lenten journey means to us and how we can live our Lenten theme, “Come Follow Me.” We are fortunate that our visiting priest, Fr. Moore, will lead us during this reflective time. We congratulate our eighth grade students who applied to De La Salle and Carondelet High Schools. They were all accepted and are looking forward to continuing their Catholic education. It is rewarding to see our graduates leave prepared for different high school experiences while staying connected to St. Isidore. Our students continue to build on the strong foundation they were given here and excel in their high school careers. This month our students are looking forward to many activities. During Lent we celebrate the liturgy together every Friday. On April 8th and 9th, we celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation for grades 2-8. Our parish invites many local priests to help with this Sacrament. This is a sacred time to feel God’s love and forgiveness. Our theatre students are rehearsing for their drama performance, which will be held Thursday, April 10th and Friday, April 11th at 7PM. Please come and see all of the talents our students bring to the stage! Tickets can be purchased at the door. OnApril 17th, our 3rd grade and 6th grade students work together to reenact the Living Stations of the Cross. This is one of our St. Isidore traditions that truly expresses our faith as Catholics. Both grades work diligently practicing for this beautiful event. Our school spends Holy Thursday walking each Station of Cross reflecting on the steps of our Lord. We invite our priests, parents, and parishioners to join us. We invite our community as well. Please contact the school office at 925-837-2977 if you are interested in attending. As much as we love our students, we are looking forward to having our Easter Break! I encourage our teachers to take this time for themselves and their families. We do not give any long-term assignments during this time because we feel it is crucial to have family time to reconnect. As Dr. Pope, PHD from Stanford said at the annual San Ramon Valley Council PTA’s Parenting Education Conference, we need to slow down and remember the real priorities for our children. To do this she used the acronym of “PDF” everyday, which means P= playtime (unstructured), D= Downtime (doing nothing) and F= Family time (family dinners 5 nights/week for a minimum of 25 minutes). And as a Catholic school, we also incorporate and emphasize prayer time and going to mass together as a family. St. Isidore School is a wonderful place with a fabulous community. Each day we recognize how blessed we are to be a part of it. April is our registration deadline for current and new students. Currently we are accepting applications for Kindergarten. We welcome you to come be part of St. Isidore School.
SRV Christian Academy By Jan Brunkal, Principal
This is a busy time of year around SRVCA. There are so many wonderful things taking place around here. From Science Fair competitions and standardized testing, to Teen Esteem presentations and kindergarten readiness the many activities are keeping us all very busy. Once again, our Grandparents’ Day was a huge success. There were many of our children’s grandparents and important people here on our campus for this special event. Our kindergarten through junior high students honored their grandparents during our chapel service. Songs, poems, skits, and a precious DVD thoroughly entertained our honored guests. After chapel our grandparents visited their grandchild’s classroom where stories were shared about the good “old days,” and special handmade cards were given to their grandparents. What a wonderful day! A tradition around SRVCA is our annual 8th grade play which is always a treat, and this year was no exception. Fairy Tales go to Court was a crowd pleaser for sure. The students did such a wonderful job portraying fairy tale characters in stories such as Miss Muffet, Mary Had a Little Lamb, Three Blind Mice, Old Lady in the Shoe, Sleepy Boy Blue, and Pilfred Piper “crimes.” Mrs. Pam Winaker, as well as other members of our staff, did a wonderful job directing these great students in helping them to thoroughly entertain their audience. We are looking forward to celebrating Easter and the death and resurrection of Jesus. All of our classes will be studying this most important event in history. We are looking forward to Easter vacation and rest with our family and friends. Happy Easter!
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 9
Serving the Bay Area with honesty and integrity since 1973
Since 1973
3191-M Crow Canyon Pl San Ramon Carpets, Hardwood, Laminate & Stone (925) 866-2200 www.MacFloor.com • info@macfloor.com
In Loehmann’s Shopping Center (next to Lucky’s)
Stone Valley Middle School
By Shaun K. McElroy, Principal Congratulations to Denise True – Stone Valley Classified Employee of the Year
Stone Valley Office Manager Denise True has been serving the Alamo community in every possible way for well over 20 years. Denise was a parent at Rancho Romero, Stone Valley, Monte Vista, and San Ramon Valley High Schools. When her three children were in school, Denise was an avid classroom volunteer, and she also served two terms as PTA President at Rancho Romero. As her children grew Denise began her career as a school employee. At one time Denise held four different jobs at Rancho office support, library aide, PEP program assistant, and PE assistant. Eight years ago Denise moved to Stone Valley as our attendance secretary and quickly out grew the job and became our office manager. Denise defies her job description…in addition to being our scheduler, CFO and queen of organization, Denise is often the person children turn to when they need a shoulder to cry on or a hug. Staff use Denise as their personal confidant, she’s always the first to know who’s getting engaged or married, or who is pregnant. Denise is truly a blessing to our school and community, and we thank you for your many years of service. We are truly grateful for all you do for us. Denise was recognized at the SRVUSD Board meeting on Tuesday, March 25th. Congratulations, Denise.
SRV Council of PTA’s Parenting and Beyond Conference
The San Ramon Valley Council of PTA’s Annual Parent Education conference was recently held. The conference keynote speaker was Denise Pope, Ph.D. from Stanford University. Dr. Pope is a mother of three and works full time, as does her husband, so she knows first hand the demands of parenting and the stresses our children experience. One of the exercises Dr. Pope asked us to do was to draw a clock face and pencil in how much time our children spent each day on any given task: eating, playing, screen time, downtime, homework etc. Please try this at home to gain a perspective on what happens in the lives of our your children each day. One of the acronyms that Dr. Pope used to help us remember the priorities for our children is to “PDF” everyday. PDF refers to: P= playtime (unstructured), D=Downtime (doing nothing), and F=Family time (family dinners five nights/
2395 Monument Blvd., Suite J Concord (925) 680-4433 (Across from Costco Gas Station, next to Harvest House)
week for a minimum of 25 minutes). These following common-sense tips were discussed and are based on children’s known developmental needs and recent research on child and adolescent wellbeing. Here’s what you can do immediately to support healthy development and prepare your child for real success: ▪ Define success on your terms. ▪ Ease performance pressure. ▪ Love your children unconditionally. ▪ Debunk college myths. ▪ Build responsibility at home and in the community. ▪ Unplug ▪ Maintain playtime, down time, and family time. Avoid over-scheduling. ▪ Discipline and set limits. Allow kids space to develop on their own and make mistakes. Parenting is a challenge for all of us. Take a look at Dr. Pope’s website for expanded definitions of bullet points above (www.challengesuccess.org).
San Ramon Valley Area Band Festival
San Ramon Valley High Schools Annual Area Band Festival took place on March 18th. The concert featured approximately 350 instrumental music students from John Baldwin, Greenbrook, Montair, Rancho Romero, Sycamore Valley, Charlotte Wood, Stone Valley, and San Ramon Valley High School. Stone Valley’s bands (cadet, concert, and symphonic), under the direction of Ben Loomer, played a total of seven selections for an audience of nearly 1,000 concertgoers. This concert also provided listeners with an opportunity to see the progression of students from their second year of playing an instrument all the way through high school. It was truly an inspirational evening. Our 7th and 8th grade bands will be performing at Disneyland next week.
Wheelchair Foundation comes to Stone Valley
Don Routh of the Wheelchair Foundation www.wheelchairfoundation.org visited Stone Valley’s two leadership classes on Friday morning to launch a fundraiser to purchase low-cost wheelchairs for people in developing nations. The fundraiser is a district wide event. Mr. Routh has just returned from a trip to Paraguay where he delivered several wheelchairs. To date over 950,000 chairs have been donated by the foundation.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
Page 10 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
SAT Upcoming Changes By Susan Sokat, Club Z
Recently, the College Board has announced some major changes to the SAT. However, if you plan to take the test this year or next year, keep studying. These changes are scheduled for 2016. The newly revised SAT will aim to more accurately measure and reflect what students learn in the classroom. David Coleman, the President of the College Board and lead contributor to the Common Core Standards initiative, had this to say in a recent speech: “It is time for an admissions assessment that makes it clear that the road to success is not last-minute tricks or cramming, but the learning students do over years.” He went on to say that the SAT “will no longer stand apart from . . . daily studies and learning.” According to the College Board, the SAT redesign is also intended to help balance the scales for less affluent students who have been at a reported disadvantage compared with more affluent students who can afford the various fees associated with the college application process. In fact, the makers of the SAT again stated that they would waive up to four college application fees for students meeting certain income requirements. There is also speculation that these changes come as an answer to the fact that the ACT college entrance exam surpassed the SAT in popularity last year, as measured by total number of test takers, for the first time in the test’s history. Many of the changes proposed by the College Board mimic the structure of the ACT (for example – no penalty for wrong answers, which were previously marked off one quarter point on the SAT). Here is a rundown on some of the more significant changes. • The maximum score will decrease from 2,400 to 1,600 total points, a return to the previous scoring metrics in place prior to 2005. • There is no longer a penalty for wrong answers (only correct answers will be counted toward the student’s score). This will significantly impact guessing strategies long believed to be useful for SAT test takers! • In an effort to make the test more relevant and applicable for college preparation, the vocabulary section will be changed to eliminate obscure words in favor of words more commonly encountered in college courses. • The math topics will focus primarily on linear equations, functions, and proportional thinking, and calculators may not be allowed for certain math questions (which questions or topics remains to be revealed). • The test will require students to show more of their work in the math section and substantiate their answers in the reading section through text analysis. • The essay portion will be available but no longer mandatory. Club Z! In-Home Tutoring provides diagnostics and a completely individualized tutoring approach to SAT Tutoring. Please contact Club Z at 925Advertorial 786-7149 or www.clubztutoring.com/danville for more details on improving SAT scores.
Del Amigo High School
Monte Vista High School
By Joseph A. Ianora, Principal
By Janet Terranova, Principal
One of the best reasons to be on a high school campus is the high energy level of our students and staff. There is always some activity to keep students and staff busy. During the month of March we welcomed incoming ninth graders, our Drama department produced a play, our Vocal Music department participated in the Area Choral Concert with our feeder middle schools, we hosted an Advanced Placement and incoming 10th -12th grade night for our current students and parents, our boys and girls soccer teams both participated in the North Coast Finals and our girls are the North Coast Section champions, students participated individually in academic contests, and our Speech and Debate team continues their winning season. This list is just a small sample of what happens on a high school campus in a month. The reality is that as energetic as our students may be, that energy needs to be channeled and mentored and the mentorship comes from our staff and community. Staff and community members work with our students outside the classroom each and every day. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all of you for helping our students have an enriching and successful high school experience. Our booster groups and PTSA spend hours helping to raise money and volunteer in a myriad of ways to improve Monte Vista. Parents take time from work to drive carpools and volunteer to help with student clubs. Our staff is amazing. Each club needs a teacher advisor, and we have over 75 clubs. Our staff comes to many student activities, and they often stay late and give up their weekends to support students. Kudos to Ms. Kimberley Gilles, English teacher, who was selected by the National Education Association as the recipient of the Horace Mann Award for Teaching Excellence; quite an honor for this outstanding teacher. As a school we realize the level of support and encouragement from our community is fantastic. I feel fortunate to be in a community that is so supportive of education and our students. If you want to know more about Monte Vista and our activities, please visit our website at www.mvhs.schoolloop.com.
Exchange Club of SRV
The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month in downtown Danville. Sign-in and social time begins at 11:30AM. The meeting starts promptly at noon and ends promptly at 1PM. The program features guest speakers and a business networking speaker. For more information, call Karen Stepper at (925) 275-2312, email coachstepper@yahoo.com, or visit www.srvexchangeclub.org.
We are in our fourth and final quarter – it is a sprint to the finish with all of the activities we are finishing or gearing up for!
Recent activities
Food Bank - We took a second trip to the Alameda County Food Bank with a group of 15 students and staff. This opportunity to serve others was a great learning opportunity for our students. They were eager to serve and incredible helpful – when asked all students, said they would return, and they wanted to bring a friend. Pi Day – What an educational and full filled day we had on March 14. Our students participated in four educational activities in the morning, baked pizza (pi) for lunch, and had three activities in the afternoon. The day culminated in a pie throwing contest. Whipped cream pies were purchased for $1 (with proceeds going to a charity), and students could throw a pie at a teacher – this was very fun for all involved (even I was covered in whipped cream). Testing – We completed our CAASSP testing (new STAR), CAHSEE makeups, and EAP testing. This was a new experience in computer based testing, and the students seemed to handle the change quite well.
Current activities
Online learning – We currently have a class of students enrolled in our new online course work. This has been a great opportunity for our students to experience a different learning modality. We have students taking courses in World History, Government, US History, and English. We have a teacher who tracks the progress on a daily basis and is available if the students have questions. Honor roll – Each quarter we celebrate the achievement of our students as they excel in the area of grades and credits earned. This quarter we had 17 students (out of 56) who made the honor roll due to grades above a 3.3, and 18 students earned more than 20 credits during the quarter.
Future activities
Blood drive – We will be hosting a blood drive on May 1st. Many of our students and staff will be participating. Community service – We will be returning to the Contra Costa Food Bank to volunteer our services. Students will have the opportunity to once again “give back” to their local community. Oakland Zoo – Our Life Science classes will be travelling to the zoo midApril to complete their unit of study. Thank you for your continued support of our academic institution.
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
The Quest for a Future By Devyn Holliday, San Ramon Valley High School, senior
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 11
11 Critical Home Inspection Traps to be Aware of Weeks Before Listing Your Home for Sale
I’ve been going to school for 12+ Danville - According to industry experts, away altogether. In most cases, you can years now. I’ve sat in classes where there are over 33 physical problems that make a reasonable pre-inspection yourself it seemed I was in a foreign counwill come under scrutiny during a home if you know what you're looking for, and try, classes where I was intrigued inspection when your home is for sale. knowing what you're looking for can help and others where I was painfully A new report has been prepared which you prevent little problems from growing bored. But I must say this year, I identifies the 11 most common of these into costly and unmanageable ones. finally have a class where I get to do problems, and what you should know about To help home sellers deal with this issue exactly what I want: write. I’m a writing nerd, as evidenced them before you list your home for sale. before their homes are listed, a free report by my articles…and if you saw my hard drive you’d see it’s Whether you own an old home or a brand entitled "11Things You Need to Know to filled with 100+ barely started novels. Writing has been my new one, there are a number of things Pass Your Home Inspection" has been most-realistic passion since the third grade; the other ones, that can fall short of requirements during a compiled which explains the issues involved. such as being Mariah Carey, have sadly proved futile. But, home inspection. If not identified and dealt To hear a brief recorded message about hey look: I’ve been published before age 18! You’ve probably with, any of these 11 items could cost you how to order your FREE copy of this report, been wondering how I, some random high school senior, have dearly in terms of repair. That's why it's call toll-free 1-866-265-1682 and enter been graced with the opportunity to share my words each critical that you read this report before 1003. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, month. Well, thanks to this class, my senior year has been you list your home. If you wait until the 7 days a week. filled with time and opportunities. This class is I-Quest. building inspector flags these issues for Get your free special report NOW to learn The name in itself suggests an air of independence, which you, you will almost certainly experience how to ensure a home inspection doesn't is right up most senior’s alleys. The class allows a select costly delays in the close of your home cost you the sale of your home. group of passionate seniors to do what they do best: follow sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers their passions! For myself, it was a newspaper, for other’s it’s This report is courtesy of J. Rockcliff Realtors #01763819. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2013 law firms, tech startups, dance, schools, hospitals, pharmacies, sports, and film. I-Quest isn’t about some esoteric state curriculum; it’s San Ramon Valley High School about giving students the chance to follow what it is that matters to them. Four By Ruth Steele, Principal days out of the week you can find this year’s I-Questers out and about in the Spring is an incredibly busy time in high schools. We Bay Area working on different projects. From case files to recording music, are always caught between the current school year and everyone’s always busy. planning for next year. Between testing, master schedulSo how is one to be considered part of this “select” group of seniors to ing, and planning for graduation, the pace of things just take this class? Have a passion, and come interview for the class! When I was initially made aware of the class, the task of interviewing was daunting, but seems to get faster and faster. even more daunting was the task of narrowing my interests down to a single This year has seen the beginning and the conclusion thing. Being in school is metaphorically like being a juggler; you have all these of some major projects: activities you do, all the time, and suddenly you can let all but one go and see The pool is finished, including the new entry way, what it’s like to just focus on one thing. It’s a whole new world. Instead of and that was formally opened on March 27th. The bleachers are almost completed, scribbling down random thoughts, I get out of school everyday and use my and a baseball improvement project to build a new batting cage is also underway. 6th period time to contemplate the words that are germane to this final year of This year has seen SRVHS being the lucky recipient of an unparalleled level high school. Oh, I forgot to mention another simple perk of I-Quest: beating of support from parents and the community. Our seven booster groups have th the awful SRV traffic because we don’t have a 6 period! The list of perks is limitless, but honestly there’s so much to gain. Most high done an incredible job of supporting our athletic, arts, and academic programs. school curricula don’t offer students a chance to explore the things relevant We have added new technology, and expanded career center services, library to them, but with I-Quest the opportunities are bountiful! Each student has a hours, intervention classes, and elective offerings. None of these things would mentor who guides him or her along the ropes of whatever field the student be possible without the support of our PTSA, Academic Boosters, 21st Century has chosen. Some of us work with lawyers, editors, and doctors, but I honestly Learning Foundation, Athletic Boosters, Wolf Tones, San Ramon Voices, and can’t overstate the importance of mentors to the program; the information and Theater Boosters. lessons they all have taught us this past year have been tenfold more valuable We recently invited all incoming 8th graders to SRVHS (Building Bridges than any information we can get from a book. And to all the mentors, my mentor night) to help them with the transition to high school. It is exciting to meet our especially, we all know teenagers are difficult to work with, but you have given new students early. us something great: the chance to start pursuing our passions; for that we’ll be We are also planning a talent show and art auction in mid-May. Please look for forever grateful to you. Interviews for I-Quest will be held later this month, so publicity on this as we will happily accept donated artwork or prizes for this event. calling all passionate students, see what it’s like to turn passions into a class! Finally, we are beginning to plan the graduation ceremony for the 100th AAUW Garden Tour graduating class at SRVHS - a particularly exciting milestone in the history of The Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of AAUW is hosting its 14th our high school! annual Garden Tour on Friday, May 9th and Saturday, May 10th from 10AM Spring Plant Sale to 4pm. Begin your Mother’s Day weekend by treating your mothers and The Gardens at Heather Farm (GHF) hosts its annual Spring Plant Sale on daughters to this self-guided tour of five of the loveliest gardens in the Alamo AM and Danville area. From the calm serenity of an artist’s studio garden to an April 26 from 9 - noon at 600 North San Carlos Drive in Walnut Creek (beyond the baseball fields in Heather Farms Park). Available to you will be a exquisite entertainment garden featuring expansive lawns, a terraced hillside and multiple patio areas, you will be inspired by the creative elegance of wide variety of plants, including Mediterranean and California native plants, and plants for birds and butterflies. GHF members enjoy a 10% discount on each of these unique gardens. Tickets go on sale April 2 and can be purchased at East Bay Flower Com- all plant purchases, and non-members can take advantage of the discount by becoming members on the day of the sale. All proceeds benefit the ongoing pany (206 Sycamore Valley Road West in the Danville Livery) or online at maintenance of The Gardens at Heather Farms and its educational programs http://daw-ca.aauw.net/garden/. Tickets cost $35 for adults and $30 for seniors before May 3. Light refreshments will be provided. All proceeds from the for children. Plant lists are available online at www.gardenshf.org. For additional information, call (925) 947-1678. tour benefit scholarships, research, and grants for aspiring women scholars.
Page 12 - March 2014 ~ April Today News
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
Tax Talk with Bob By Bob Shalon, IRS Enrolled Agent, H&R Block State of the IRS
Finally, there is something we taxpayers and congress agree on – that is our dislike for the IRS! Let me clarify. I don’t need to explain our inherit dislike. As for congress, they seem to give the agency a hard time through lack of funding. Before you say “too bad” and laugh, please know that we, the taxpayers, are also paying a price in the area of customer service. Over the past three years, funding for training IRS customer service representatives has dropped from $172 million down to this year’s figure of $22 million. The result is a much longer wait time on the phone and not getting a knowledgeable representative when you do reach someone. On the flip side, the IRS website is greatly improved and more robust. Many areas can be accessed on the website that needed a phone call in past years. Some areas are: • Refund status • Prior years tax transcripts Bob Shalon, EA • Almost any tax form or publication • How to respond to an IRS letter Master Tax Advisor • Enrolled Agent • Calculating the proper withholding or estimated payments • Affordable care act tax provisions There are just a few weeks remaining in tax season, so don’t forget to file! Too much money is left on 925.820.9570 the table by people who do forget. 718 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Danville Sycamore Square (next to Lucky’s) Please call me at any time at 925-820-9570, email bob.shalon@tax.hrblock.com, or stop by my bob.shalon@tax.hrblock.com Advertorial office located at 718 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville with any questions.
April Programs on Ranching at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley
Every Saturday during the current ranching exhibit, ranchers will be present to talk with visitors at 205 Railroad Avenue, Danville. On Saturday, April 5, 11am, at the Museum, expert Sheila Barry from UC extension will give a presentation titled, “Cows, Cattlemen and Conservation.” On Thursday, April 17 from 10-11:30am, at Hap Magee Ranch Park, take a history tour of the park at 1025 La Gonda Way. Join historian Beverly Lane and rancher Jed Magee for a tour, and a look at the special Magee “brand room.” On Sunday, April 27th a Ranching Roundup event will take place at the Museum from 1-3PM. The following activities will be held. • Branding demonstration • Ice cream social • Horses from the Regional Park’s Volunteer Safety Patrol • Alameda County Cattle Women’s program on beef, including great recipes • Special tours of the ranching exhibit The Museum is open Tuesday through Friday from 1-4pm, Saturday 10am-1pm, and Sunday noon-3pm. For more information, visit museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750. The play will be presented April 18 – May 10 with Friday, Saturday, and Sunday Ruddigore, Ghosts and Bridesmaids Galore performances at the Village Theatre, located at 233 Front Street in Danville. The Role Players Ensemble presents Gilbert & Sullivan’s Ruddigore. Tickets can be purchased online at www.RolePlayersEnsemble.com, at the DanCombine a witch’s curse, a haunted castle, and a chorus of professional ville Community Center at 420 Front St. in Danville, or by calling (925) 314-3400. bridesmaids, and you have a comic feast for the senses. This innovative A free Sneak Peek event will be held Thursday, April 10 at 7PM at the Dantake on Ruddigore Castle residents, both living and dead, fills the stage with ville Library. A special Easter Surprise will happen at the April 20th matinee. delightful music, witty dialogue, and wacky characters. Follow The Curse of the Week at www.RolePlayersEnsemble.com.
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
$10
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 13
Kids Dept
$10.00 Coupon good towards your purchase of $50.00 or more in the McCaulou’s Kids Department Infant – Size 20
$10
$10.00 Coupon good towards your purchase of $50.00 or more in the McCaulou’s Shoe Department TOMS & Ugg excluded
Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. 1 coupon per customer. Not valid in conjunction with other promotions. Valid thru April 13, 2014
$10
Womens
$10.00 Coupon good towards your purchase of $50.00 or more in the McCaulou’s Women’s Department
Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. 1 coupon per customer. Not valid in conjunction with other promotions. Valid thru April 13 ,2014
$10
Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. 1 coupon per customer. Not valid in conjunction with other promotions. Valid thru April 13, 2014
ENTER FREE DRAWING
Men’s
$10.00 Coupon good towards your purchase of $50.00 or more in the McCaulou’s Men’s Department
for
Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. 1 coupon per customer. Not valid in conjunction with other promotions. Valid thru April 13, 2014
$10
JR’S
$10.00 Coupon good towards your purchase of $50.00 or more in the McCaulou’s Jr’s Department
Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. 1 coupon per customer. Not valid in conjunction with other promotions. Valid thru April 13, 2014
$10
SHOES
$100.00
SPENDING SPREE !!
Bring this coupon in to any McCaulou’s Store. No purchase necessary. One entry per customer. Enter drawing by Sunday, April 13
Lingerie
Email Address:
$10.00 Coupon good towards your purchase of $50.00 or more in the McCaulou’s Lingerie Department
______________________________________ Winner will be notified by email on April 15, 2014
Coupon must be presented at time of purchase. 1 coupon per customer. Not valid in conjunction with other promotions. Valid thru April 13, 2014
Lancome, Estee Lauder, Clinique, Brighton, Pandora, Boy Scouts excluded Lafayette
Danville
Moraga
Countrywood
Clayton Rd.
Plaza Center
Town & Country
Moraga Center
Treat & Bancroft
Vineyard Center
Every Choice Counts
By Cynthia Ruzzi
A little over four years ago three women were introduced in a local coffee shop. Coming from different regions of the country, bringing different experiences and perspectives, together they agreed on the concept that ‘Every Choice Counts.’ So, on Earth Day 2010 they invited others to come together to talk about what is special about our community and how to preserve it. During that first evening, neighbors and community leaders launched Sustainable Danville Area. Similarly, seven years ago a man used his position in society to alert the public to the changes we were facing from carbon pollution. Perhaps his message got missed by some because he was a politician, or perhaps it was too perilous of a message for some to face. But over time there has been a change of heart, an acceptance that perhaps we can live a little more lightly on the Earth and preserve what we have for our children. Maybe, like me you are enjoying our lovely spring air and cherish the difference from the gloomy, dry, polluted winter days. Perhaps you’re ‘banking’ your children’s and grandchildren’s future, and you want to make sure they will have the outdoors that we call our ‘backyard’ to enjoy years from now. Whatever your reason, more of us are remembering to bring reusable grocery bags, forgo the plastic water bottle, and even use public transportation more today than any time since the 1950’s. Perhaps the energy efficient appliances that grace our kitchen, laundry, and TV rooms are a technological advantage over yesteryear, but our sustainable practices are not new. A past chairman of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce shared the following story that emphasizes just that: In the line at the store, the cashier told the older woman that plastic bags weren’t good for the environment. The woman apologized and explained, “We didn’t have the green thing back in my day.” That’s right, they didn’t have the green thing in her day. Back then, they returned their milk bottles, soda pop bottles, and beer bottles to the store. The store sent them back to the plant to be washed and sterilized and refilled, using the same bottles over and over. So they really were recycled. But they didn’t have the green thing back in her day. Back then, they washed the baby’s diapers because
Orinda Village Square
Montclair 6211 Medau Place, Oakland
Sonoma Market Place
Napa Town Center
Auburn 372 Elm Ave
they didn’t have the throw-away kind. They dried clothes on a line – wind and solar power really did dry the clothes. But the woman was right, they didn’t have the green thing back in her day. They drank from a fountain when they were thirsty, instead of using a cup or a plastic bottle every time they had a drink of water. When they packaged a fragile item to send in the mail, they used wadded up newspaper to cushion it, not Styrofoam or plastic bubble wrap. But they didn’t have the green thing back then. Back then, people took the streetcar and kids rode their bikes to school or rode the school bus, instead of turning their moms into a 24-hour taxi service. And they didn’t need a computerized gadget to receive a signal beamed from satellites 2,000 miles out in space in order to find the nearest pizza joint. But then...they didn't have the green thing back then! We may not have had ‘the green thing’ back then, but we lived our lives with integrity for the Earth and our resources. We made ‘Every Choice Count.’ To celebrate Earth Day this spring, perhaps you and your family will adopt a few of these practices for a day or a month and see that living lightly really isn’t inconvenient at all. Please join Sustainable Danville Area at the following upcoming April events. For more details, please visit www.sustainabledanville.com or www. facebook.com/sustainabledanvillearea. Is your child a ‘Kid-casso’? Danville and Alamo K-12 students are invited to participate in 4th Annual Earth Day Student Art Contest and have their art displayed in the Town of Danville Community Center on April 19th. The deadline is April 5th. Along, with the San Ramon Valley High School E2 Club, we’ll host The Climate Reality Project, a multi-media update on ‘An Inconvenient Truth’ on Tuesday, April 8th at 7pm at SRVHS Performing Arts Center, 501 Danville Avenue. Pack your picnic or purchase lunch and snacks al fresco from La Boulange Bakery and Café while enjoying live music and playing with our Giant Earth Ball! The 4th Annual Earth Day Event hosted by the Town of Danville, Sustainable Danville Area, and the Danville Library presents fun for everyone on the Town Green in front of the Community Center and at the Danville Library at 400 Front Street. The event will be held Saturday, April 19th from 11am – 3pm.
Page 14 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Classic Local Theatres
By Linda Summers Pirkle
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
One of my favorite landmarks in the area is the iconic Orinda Theatre marquee. Driving either direction on Highway 24, I always take a moment to admire the impressive beacon, and most likely tens of thousands of other motorists do the same. The “movie palace” was built in 1941. Alexander Aimwell Cantin(1876-1964), who designed theatres since the 1920’s, was the architect. The art deco movie house was modeled after the Temple of the Moon in the 1939 World’s Fair at Treasure Island. The builder was Donald Rheem, of the Rheem Water Heater Company, who also built the Rheem Theatre located in Moraga, just four miles from the Orinda Theatre. The Rheem Theatre (1958) was built as a Performing Arts Center, with seating for 1,000 people. Johnny Cash, June Carter, and Comedienne Phyllis Diller are a few of the entertainers who performed at the center. In 1961, feature films were shown at the venue. The ticket kiosk in the front of the theatre is a nostalgic nod to the past. Long time employee Vince Townsend; who has worked at the Orinda, Rheem, and Park(Lafayette) theatres for the past 27 years; says, “People seem to enjoy going to these theatres because the venue is beautiful and historic. Generally, the theatres have a relaxed neighborhood feel to them. We are so lucky to have three gems still standing in this area.” Photo by Derek Zemrak Recently, I attended a ribbon cutting for the Classic Film Hall of Fame at the Rheem Theatre. Memorabilia showcased in the theatre’s lobby and hallways include signed articles from Jimmy Stewart, Mary Pickford, Boris Karloff, Bud Abbott, Lou Costello, and many other stars of the Golden Age. Take time to visit the interactive display of the “Walk of Fame,” featuring touch screens for the stars inducted into the Hall of Fame. Cloris Leachman, Mickey Rooney, and Margaret O’Brien are three of the stars who recently attended their “induction” into the Hall of Fame at the Rheem Theater, supporting the efforts of the California Independent Film Festival and the conversion to digital projection. Don’t miss the two framed photos of glamorous patrons at the 1958 opening night of the Rheem Theatre. The photos are located on the main floor next to the display from the film Silver Linings Playbook. *The Orinda Theatre features a free movie night every second Thursday at 7PM. The theatre is located at 1 Orinda Theatre Square, Orinda. Their phone number is 925-254-9065. *The New Rheem Theatre is located at 350 Park Street, Moraga. Their phone number is 925-388-0752. The website for the two theatres is www.lamorindatheatres.com. *The Park Theatre in Lafayette, which has been closed for eight years, is the topic for a grassroots effort to reopen and refurbish the historical venue. Their email is savethepark@.gmail.com. Linda Summers Pirkle, travel consultant and long term Danville resident, has been arranging and leading tours for the Town of Danville for several years. Inspired by the many wonderful places to visit in the Bay Area, she organizes day trips, either for groups or for friends and family. “If it’s a trip for my husband and me, my husband drives and I talk (he’s a captive audience) – the perfect combination! What a great place to live, so much to see, so much to do.” To share your “Quick Trips” ideas email Coverthemap@gmail.com.
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 15
DT
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
Page 16 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Tree of the Season
Japanese Maples
By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb
Japanese maples have an elegance and sculptural quality that resembles dance. Careful study of their form, in any season, can call the viewer back to the natural world. In winter, the falling leaves raise the curtain on the form of the trunks and put the dance on center stage. Winter rain intensifies the show by adding a sensuality to the movement of stem and bough, one that beckons to even the unpracticed eye. In spring, certain varieties of Japanese maples send out new leaves so bright a green they appear lit from within. In summer, upright cultivars that are well pruned have spaces between the branches, giving the canopy the appearance of being composed of many floating islands. And in fall, Japanese maples mark the change of season by turning colors ranging from yellow to scarlet, depending on the variety of maple; there are many varieties. Luckily, Japanese maples are relatively easy to grow and relatively tough. In their long evolutionary dance–fossilized maple leaves date back over 60 million years–Japanese maples have developed the genetic information necessary to protect them against most common garden afflictions. They are, however, subject to verticillium wilt, a soil-borne fungal disease that can cause dieback, and sometimes death. There is no known cure for verticillium, but you can decrease the likelihood of your new maple getting the disease if you 1) don’t plant it in ground known to have verticillium, 2) make sure the soil around the tree is well drained so that the roots don’t remain soggy throughout the winter, and 3) protect the tree against environmental stresses by giving it summer water and keeping it well mulched. Maples can grow and remain healthy in gardens with a history of verticillium. If they are not stressed by soils too damp, too dry, or too compacted, some individual maples can thrive even though a near neighbor may die. It depends on the genetics of the individual. If your mature maple shows significant dieback, it may be fighting a case of verticillium. It is not necessarily a death sentence. Some trees succeed in fighting off the disease. You can help them recover by pruning out the deadwood and improving the soil environment by mulching and aerating. Though some varieties can withstand full sun, Japanese maples do best in part shade. They do not thrive when exposed to the drying effect of constant wind. If you live on an exposed hillside, it is best to plant them in the lee of a larger tree. Dieback in Japanese maple crowns often is the result of too much sun, too much wind, or the even more deadly combination of the two. Maples need water. Keeping them moist • A trusted, high integrity, locally owned throughout the summer and fall, and into the company early winter in dry years, will make them hap• Highest quality installations pier and more disease resistant. Pruning, besides benefiting the mental health • Experienced with installations in your of the pruner, can enhance the grace of the plant. neighborhood If your pruner is an artist, removing deadwood • Flexible financing options to suit a wide and teasing apart the plant’s natural layering spectrum of fiscal situations opens little windows that reveal and accentu• Free estimates ate the tree’s natural form. A well-pruned tree • Government incentives looks as if it hasn’t been pruned. Paradoxically, are still available it looks more natural after pruning than before. Though it is sometimes necessary to lower the crown of a maple, as when it is beginning to block a treasured view, lowering should be done only when necessary, and the lowering should not be so drastic as to involve topping cuts (see the article on topping). Lowering a maple to gain a view is not something that you can do just once. Pruning down the crown stimulates new growth, and maintaining the view or the size reduction, will require yearly pruning. No matter how good the artist, you can’t make a topped Use promo code: NEST to maple look as good as a natural tree. Much recieve a pruning, and therefore expense, can be avoided by planting the right variety in the right place. When planting a new tree, plant a cultivar that won’t exceed the desired height when it matures. This is almost always preferable to containing a variety that will grow beyond the desired size. with your installation It is our hope at Brende & Lamb that the pleasure our clients derive from their wellpruned trees exceeds the considerable pleasure Be a SMART Homeowner, choose we get from revealing the beauty inherent in their trees. If your trees need a little TLC, please call 510-486-TREE (8733) or email us at bl@brendelamb.com for a free estimate. Additionally, 925.228.4SUN (4786) go to our website www.brendelamb.com to see before and after pictures, client testimonials, www.solaruniverse.com and work in your neighborhood. CSLB Lic. #785075 Advertorial
SMART Homeowners
WILL get solar soon… The question is…
WHO will they get it from?
FREE
Nest Thermostat
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 17
Life in the Danville Garden
By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect Celebrate Spring!
BEST TASTING
MARGARITA IT’S ALL IN THERE! JUST POUR OVER ICE & ENJOY
Low Calorie
Made with Super Premium Tequila Now available near you at: WHOLE FOODS
D NOT H
Danville
TURA
T
LA
G
100% NA
COSTCO
IN
AD
Lafayette
BU
Boy! This year has been a little tricky when figuring out if we were getting a winter or NOT. No doubt now; spring is here! If you look closely in the garden at the trees, shrubs and perennials, you’ll see the glory of spring quietly emerging. The beginning of spring is one of my favorite times in the garden. I love to observe the new and fresh leaves bud from dead and deciduous branches and bright new lime green leaves standing out against older darker green ones. I like to watch how quickly daffodils, jonquils, and paper whites (Narcissus) push their fresh long leaves through the decaying leaves and mulch to bloom bright and cheery colors. The days are warming. The sun is shinning and like clockwork life in the garden labors to show us the glory of spring. Here are some of the plants that you might have noticed that are the first to declare the beginning of spring. Cercis occidentalis (tree-Western Redbud) blooms lavender flowers on smooth gray branches before leaves form, Daphne odora (shrub-Winter Daphne) with its intoxicating fragrance fills the air, Hardenbergia violacea ‘Happy Wanderer’ (vine-Lilac Vine) weaves a lively trail of lilac flowers, Iberis sempervirens ‘Snowflake’ (perennial-Candytuft) trails profuse white flowers over the ground, and one of my favorites, Veronica umbrosa ‘Georgia Blue’ (ground cover-Speedwell), blooms profuse cobalt blue flowers as winter fades out. Other great noteworthy spring blooming trees are Pyrus calleryana ‘Redspire’ (ornamental pear), Magnolia stellata (Star Magnolia), and Prunus serrulata ‘Shirotae’ (Flowering cherry).
NEW!
UGH TE
R
LA
GENE’S FINE FOODS
Pleasanton ™
COCKTAILS
Alamo_Lafay_Danv_Today_Ad.indd 1
After a long winter’s nap, we long to connect with nature to rejuvenate, relax, recreate, and renew ourselves. A garden is one of those places that has the gift to touch all of our human senses: sight, smell, touch, sound, and taste. Wandering through a beautifully designed Danville garden allows the senses to be stimulated by wonderful visuals, fragrances, textures, sounds, and tastes that nature can offer. Let your spirits be lifted twice this spring, first by strolling through inspiring gardens and second by knowing that you are helping to raise much-needed money for charity. Come join our spring tradition! I am thrilled to announce our 4th annual Garden Tour Fundraiser: “Life in the Alamo-Danville Garden,” a tour of five distinct gardens designed by me in Alamo and Danville. I personally invite you to come celebrate spring with us. Stroll the budding gardens, nibble goodies, learn about the importance of bees, attend a veggie garden demo, listen to music as you meander, chat with me, and enjoy other surprises we have planned while supporting some of my favorite beneficiaries: The Quincy Lee Foundation, The Bounty Garden, Lazarex Cancer Foundation, Contra Costa Guild Dogs for the Blind, Urban Farmers, and Alamo Rotary. Mark your calendar for Saturday, May 3 from 11AM -4PM. For more info and tickets, go to our website garden tour page at www.jm-la.com/garden_tour.php. It will be a pleasure to celebrate the glory of spring with you! A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: Come have some fun with us in the gardens, help raise needed dollars for our beneficiaries, and CELEBRATE SPRING! Gardening Quote of the month: Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough, and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a
100% N T
Danville & Walnut Creek
AD
BU
LUNARDI’S
L
2/24/14 4:52 PM
stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow. ~Melody Beattie If you would like me to write on any particular subject, email your ideas to jmontgomery@jm-la.com or for design ideas, visit www.jm-la.com. Advertorial
Page 18 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Clip Notes By Jody Morgan
The chalice-shaped blossoms that covered hillsides when European explorers first explored California have a plethora of common names including Cup of Gold from the Spanish copa de oro. Although also known as California Sunlight, these native wildflowers refuse to open on cloudy days and close by sunset each evening. Perhaps you know them best as Golden Poppy, designated California’s State Flower in 1903. In 1973, the California State Legislature further recognized the significance of these indigenous plants by establishing April 6th of each year as California Poppy Day. NativeAmericans found many uses for the prolifically self-sowing, drought-tolerant poppy. Some consumed the boiled greens. Others used the oil and seeds to dull the pain of toothache and headache and as a mild sedative for infants. Although distantly related to the opium poppy, California poppies produce no addictive substances. Legend relates that poppy fields once glowed brightly enough along the California coast to function as navigational beacons for Spaniards who nicknamed the area “land of flame.” They even accorded the flowers magical powers. Gold allegedly filled the earth wherever poppy petals fell. The first California poppy seeds to germinate in Europe were collected by David Douglas in 1825. Nineteenth-century English horticulturalists bred elaborate cottage-garden creations from the free-spirited four-petal originals. The Mission Bells and Ballerina series offer semi-double and double blossoms with ruffled or fluted petals. Colors available range from tangerine to crimson, purple, pink, yellow and ivory. Tap-rooted, California poppies refuse to be transplanted, but they are easy to seed into large or small areas. Allowed to repeatedly set seed, fancy forms eventually revert to the golden-orange color and simple shape of the original species. The false gold of European mustard now blankets the Diablo foothills once carpeted by California poppies. Ironically, the California poppy has similarly invaded other lands. When the gold rush ended, miners seeking fortune elsewhere sailed on ships using sand from the California coastline as ballast. Poppy seeds concealed in that sand soon sprouted in Chile, Argentina, Australia, South Africa, and India, where they are now considered unwelcome weeds.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
Difficult to spell, the botanical name for our state flower actually perpetuates an error made nearly two centuries ago. In 1816, the Russian expeditionary vessel Rurik arrived in San Francisco Bay with two German naturalists on board: Johann Freidrich von Eschscholtz (also ship’s surgeon) and Adelbert von Chamisso. The latter is better known for his literary accomplishments, including a cycle of poems set to music by Robert Schumann. As a nine-year-old, Chamisso fled the atrocities of the French Revolution with his family and settled in Berlin. To honor his shipboard colleague, Chamisso named the glorious golden blooms they found framing the bay Eschscholzia californica. His omission of the “t” in his friend’s surname has never been corrected. Eschscholtz returned the compliment by naming the California coastal dune lupine Lupinus chamissonis. From March to July this shrubby lupine’s lavender-blue flowers beckon birds and butterflies. Miwok people used the roots to fashion ropes and cords. By rubbing shells strung on the cords against sandstone, they created uniformly rounded disks. The Maidu soaked the leaves overnight in a stream of running water to render them edible. Unless you have sandy soil, however, you won’t be able to grow this lupine alongside your California poppies. While golden California poppy cups do invite bees to imbibe, native Phacelias provide blue plate specials for butterflies, songbirds and native bees that keep them returning to feast. California has 1,600 species of native bees dwelling within its borders. As pollinators they are 200 times more effective than non-native honeybees. A National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service study finds that 60,000120,000 honeybees are required to pollinate the same one-acre apple orchard that 250-750 native bees can successfully service. Phacelia comes from the Greek phakelos for cluster, referencing the way the blossoms grow in bunches. Violet-blue Lacy Phacelia, Phacelia tanacetifolia, a species native to the southwestern US and Mexico, is used throughout Europe as both a lure for beneficial insects and a cover crop. California orchard and vineyard owners are now employing it for similar functions. Long-blooming Phacelia viscida has rich royal blue flowers, while woodland Phacelia, Phacelia bolanderi, offers paler powder-blue blossoms. The latter two appreciate some shade. Scorpion Weed is the nickname for many Phacelias, not only because of the coiled scorpion-tail posture of the flowers, but also because contact with some species can cause a stinging sensation and even an irritating rash. Best to greet all Phacelias with gloved hands.
The Gold Rush: New Cattle Breeds and Ranches By Beverly Lane, Museum of the San Ramon Valley
With the discovery of gold and the conclusion of the Mexican-American War, the Mexicans’ bucolic rancho life came to an end. After the Gold Rush, a non-Indian California population of 14,000 swelled to several hundred thousand by 1852. These new Californians needed food, so cattle, sheep, and fresh produce had ready markets. Apples went for $1 each. The price of beeves soon reached $500 at Sacramento and, by 1851, cattle were still bringing from $50 to $150 each. An estimated 3,000,000 cattle roamed the hills and valleys by the early 1860s. Sheep herds grew to over one million in the same period. Large cattle herds from the lower Mississippi Valley and southwest were driven overland to meet the demand for beef. Albert Stone, who settled in Alamo, was one of those drove cattle to California when he came for a second time in 1853. These cattle gradually altered the breed which was a significant change, since the rancheros had seen no need to actively improve the abundant stock. The new breeds were usually “British” beef breeds: Hereford, Angus, and Shorthorn. Pioneers from the gold mines settled in the San Ramon Valley’s open country. Early writers recorded seeing wild cattle, horses, and grizzly bears. The settlers grazed animals and began to plant crops for sale, particularly wheat. Jose Maria Amador and Roberto Livermore had planted a wheat crop in 1837, but such large crops were rare for Mexican rancheros who usually planted grains and vegetables strictly for domestic use. One historian wrote that cattle increased four fold from 1848 to 1860. Again, the weather came into play. First came a dry year in 1860-61, then huge floods in 1861-62, and a severe drought in 1863-64. Ranchers and farmers looked to raise other crops as California’s “age of grass” became the “age of grain.” Valley ranchers grazed livestock and farmed, choosing crops which would sell successfully. They often planted crops on the valley floor and
Junior Monarch five-wire hay press in Alamo
put grain and livestock on the hills. A three-year crop rotation between grain, hay, and pasture became the practice. Crops including barley, wheat, and hay were initially profitable, followed by fruit orchards, beets, grapes, and tomatoes. In the twentieth century, groves of walnut trees and pear orchards dominated the valley floor with cattle and sheep on the hills. A book, Illustrations of Contra Costa County, published in 1879 stated: “Although the grain-growing interest predominates over all others, stock raising forms no inconsiderable part of the industries of the county. Improved breeds of cattle, horses, sheep, and swine, imported from abroad or from the Eastern States, have given the stock of this section a wide-spread reputation for years past. Many of the finest horses in the State have been bred in this county, and farmers take a great pride in the excellent quality of their stock. But the generality of farmers seem to prefer wheat-raising to all other industries. Dairying is carried on extensively.” Hay was an important product since “farms with livestock needed to
See Ranch continued on page 26
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Energy Matters
By Mark Becker, GoSimpleSolar
As geopolitical events unfold around the world, it has become apparent that the ability to export energy continues to be one of the most powerful tools of foreign policy. For too long the United States has been subjected to the blackmail of Middle Eastern despots and South American dictators because we’ve relied on their oil reserves to fuel our economy. Currently Russia is threatening export reductions of natural gas to our western allies in Europe and expanding the export of gas to the People’s Republic of China. The United States is considering the option of exporting our natural gas reserves to Europe to reduce the geopolitical power of Russia in Europe. The point is that nations without energy resources of their own are subject to the whims of energy exporting nations. The “Energy Cold War” has now begun where allies and adversaries are made based on who has the ability to export energy and who has the need to import it. The good news is that the USA is becoming a more energy independent and secure nation due to the high deployment of renewable energy and our extensive natural gas resources. Soon we may be a large exporter of energy. At the very least we’re importing less energy every day. Individual consumers are becoming more energy independent as well. There are currently over 204,000 solar electric systems in operation in California, each providing excellent and safe financial returns to their owners. Recently installed at my home is a new generation inverter that will allow my solar panels to provide power to my home when the utility grid is down, without the need for batteries. My refrigerator and internet will remain powered during utility power outages due to this new technology inverter. Installed by our licensed electrician, our customers are finding this option very appealing. Also appealing is the new kilowatt production records my solar PV system has set as compared to my previous inverter. The tangible result is less money I have to give to PG&E and more money I can add to my children’s college fund. Some solar companies are better positioned than others to compete in the future
Turn Your Retirement “Vision” into Reality By Sima Alefi
Retirement can be an exciting, active time of your life. But if you’re going to get the full benefits from your retirement years — which could last two, or even three, decades — you’ll need to have a vision for what you want to do. And to transform this vision into reality, you’ll need to take a “holistic” approach — one that involves a financial strategy, clear communications with family members, and an awareness of the challenges that may stand in your way. To articulate and achieve your vision, ask yourself a series of questions, such as the following: • What do I want to do? When you retire, do you plan on traveling around the world? Purchasing a vacation home? Pursuing your hobbies? Or maybe you’re even thinking of opening a small business. Clearly, you have many options — and you’ll need to be aware that some choices are going to be more costly than others. If you can identify how you want to spend your retirement years and then put a “price tag” on your goal — or at least come up with a pretty good estimate of how much money you’ll need each year — you can then create an appropriate investment strategy. Such a strategy will include both your need for growth — during your pre-retirement and retirement years — and your need for income, especially during your retirement years. Your investment strategy will also need to be based on your risk tolerance, family situation and time horizon — how many years you have until your retirement. • What “roadblocks” might I encounter? As you work to achieve your retirement vision, you may well encounter some “roadblocks” along the way. One significant roadblock is the amount of health care expenses you might face during retirement. Many people think Medicare will cover everything, but that’s not the case — in fact, you could easily spend a few thousand dollars
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 19 solar marketplace by designing products that work in conjunction with upcoming smart grid legislation. One particular company’s products allow limited back-up power (as described) as an inexpensive option. These products also have electric characteristics that help utilities manage grid voltages and stability, such as reactive power capabilities. Battery back-up systems will become VERY prevalent in the future as battery technology improves. The intermittent nature of solar electric distribution during daylight hours will be erased when excess energy is inexpensively stored and distributed for nighttime use. The utility grid as we know it will ultimately become decentralized away from large power stations. My home and other solar power installations will be a power generating station for neighbors by day and night. At the rate of adoption of renewable energy, it will be sooner than later that this will become commonplace. Companies which don’t offer product flexibility to adapt to the future utility grid will soon be disadvantaged in the marketplace. Properly managed and designed, more solar energy penetration into the grid will mean a more reliable and efficient utility grid. The case for back-up power and energy independence at home - Last year, in a not well-publicized attack on the PG&E Metcalf transmission substation in San Jose, snipers (yes, snipers) knocked out 17 transformers. Jon Wellinghoff, Chairman of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, said it was “the most significant incident of domestic terrorism involving the grid that has ever occurred in the U.S.” Repairs took 27 days. There is no doubt that a large-scale attack on our grid would be devastating to our economy and way of life. It doesn’t take a survival preparedness (“prepper”) mentality to recognize the convenience and advantage of having electricity of your own when the utility can’t provide it, whatever the reason may be. On a lighter note, Facebook is in discussions to buy a solar drone company. The drone can fly for five years on solar power at 60,000+ feet. It will transmit broadband connectivity to the 2/3rds of the world’s population that doesn’t have it. Drop us an email if you’d like to know about back-up power and the security it can bring to your home. Mark Becker is the President of GoSimpleSolar, by Semper Fidelis Construction Inc, a Danville based Solar Installation Firm (License 948715). GoSimpleSolar can be reached at 925-331-8011. Visit GoSimpleSolar’s NEW and larger showroom at 100 Railroad Avenue, Suite B, Danville (behind Pete’s Brass Rail) and receive a $500 discount on your solar system. Go to www.GoSimpleSolar. Advertorial com for a free quote, or email info@GoSimpleSolar.com. each year, out of pocket, for health care costs. And since these costs typically rise as you move further into retirement, you’ll need a reasonable portion of your assets to be allocated to investments with the potential for rising income. Even beyond normal health care costs, though, you’ll need to be aware that you could eventually need some type of long-term care, such as a stay in a nursing home or assistance from a home health aide. These costs can be enormous; to cope with them, you need to prepare well ahead of time, so you may want to consult with your financial advisor for possible solutions. • How can I protect my family? Your retirement vision can’t just involve yourself, or even just yourself and your spouse. To fully enjoy your retirement years, you’ll want to know that you are helping to protect your grown children from financial and emotional burdens that could fall on them should you become incapacitated in some way. Among the steps you might consider taking is establishing a durable power of attorney, which allows you to appoint an agent to manage your financial affairs, make health care decisions or conduct other business for you during your incapacitation. Consult with your legal advisor about creating a durable power of attorney. You will find that having your retirement vision come to fruition can be a great feeling. So, do whatever it takes to make it happen. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. To contact Sima for a free consultation, call her at Edward Jones (925) 648-2590. Her office is located at 3472 Camino Tassajara, Danville in the Blackhawk Safeway Shopping Center. For more information, visit www.EdwardJones.com. Advertorial
Do you have a story idea or sporting news? Do you want to place an ad? Contact us at 925.405.6397 or editor@ yourmonthlypaper. com
Page 20 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
In the Cloud
By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO
Modern culture produces concepts and technologies, then it figures out ways to convey these ideas to you and me, the consumers. The smart company with an elaborate concept will work as hard as it can to simplify its message so that the average adult can understand it, buy it, and hopefully tell others about it. Never was this so true as it is today, with the explosion of technologies and inventions surrounding the internet. Our lives have changed in countless ways because of the internet, and so has our vocabulary. I do not know exactly who first coined the term ‘cloud’ with reference to the internet, but I can tell you where I think it came from. I believe it unintentionally came from Microsoft. About ten to fifteen years ago, we technologists were creating PowerPoint and Visio diagrams to convey network and data architecture plans for customers and management. You may remember having to sit through someone’s dreaded PowerPoint deck in a dimly lit boardroom. It’s in those meetings, watching slide after slide, that the “cloud” concept was born. When we made a diagram that included some reference to the internet and showed data moving from one place to another, into the slide we would insert this puffy “cloud” image that had the word “INTERNET” stamped in the middle. This puffy cloud image would represent the big amorphous blob we call the internet. On the PowerPoint diagram it looked like a cloud, and somewhere along the way, someone decided to verbalize that concept in their description of “where we’re going to put all this data,” and the description stuck. Where will the data go? In the cloud, of course! It’s a great catch-all phrase to convey this concept of a vast and ever-changing place where data traverses and is stored for everyone to enjoy. When we say, “It’s in the cloud,” all we’re really saying is that we’re not storing it here, locally. That’s all. That’s because “the cloud” is anywhere you aren’t. Conceptually it’s meant to convey that your data or the service
“Outlaw” Protection By Robert J. Silverman
During the estate planning process for clients with children, the topic of in-laws - current and/or future spouses of the children - arises. Clients occasionally make a specific bequest in their Living Trust or Will for their daughter-in-law or son-in-law. However, this is relatively rare as a result of a high divorce rate, uncertainty about the future, and a strong natural inclination to provide only for descendants or “blood relatives.” A related but more complex issue involves how assets might be protected so that if a child divorces after inheriting, that child’s spouse is not able to take any portion of the child’s inheritance. Varying degrees of concern by clients may stem from simple caution, a fragile relationship between one’s child and his or her spouse or a doubt about the possible motives of an in-law. It is in this context that I sometimes facetiously refer to the in-laws as “outlaws”! Let’s take an example. John and Jane Doe have a daughter, Betty. Betty has been married to Bill for eight years, and they have two young children. John and Jane are working with their estate planning attorney to establish a Living Trust. They want Betty to inherit all of their assets. Jane and John ask their attorney: “How do we make sure that part (e.g. half) of Betty’s inheritance does not go to Bill if Betty and Bill later get divorced?” It’s an important question, but it’s not a quick, easy one to answer. It is first helpful to explore the basic California rules of community and separate property. It’s not necessarily intuitive, but lifetime gifts made to and inheritance received by a married person constitute separate property. So, if a married person (here, Betty) receives an inheritance from her parents and then she and Bill divorce, Bill has no claim over the assets Betty inherited. So, why worry about Betty, right? Unfortunately, we can’t jump to that conclusion. Betty, like many married people, believes in the strength and longevity of her marriage. After Betty inherits from her parents, Bill says to Betty: “We love each other; what’s yours is mine and mine is yours; and it’s forever, right?” Betty answers, “Yes, of course, Bill.” Following a brief discussion, all of the inherited assets are placed in the name of both Betty and Bill. Or more likely, no discussion takes place and Betty (with-
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
you’re using is being provided by someone else. When we say, “It’s in the cloud,” it usually connotes a vendor relationship of some sort, because it’s someone else offering to do something for you. Can a “cloud” be in your own business or home? No, a network in your home is just a local area network, or LAN. Remember, to be “cloud-based” the number one rule is that it’s not here, it’s “out there.” The whole cloud concept began to gain traction when internet connections began to improve. Think of it like a huge shopping mall that someone built out in the middle of the desert. The mall has every type of store you can imagine, and right next to the store is a huge storage facility where you can also pull in your moving truck and unload all the stuff you’ve been storing in your garage. The problem was that there was only one road into the mall, and it was only two-lanes wide, so hardly anyone used the mall. But, when more and wider roads began being built, and when you could get to the mall from any direction on nice, fast, smoothly paved highways, the mall went crazy and everyone visits now. The internet is the same way. Ten years ago in 2004, we had lousy DSL service, and we were lucky if we could download a large file from a vendor online. Many companies didn’t have fully built websites. There were no internet-based backup services like Crashplan, and Netflix only rented DVD’s, because there was no streaming yet. There was no Pandora, and there was no Spotify or iTunes. But as our connections to the internet got bigger and faster (Comcast Xfinity, AT&T Uverse), overnight the concept of storing all of your data on the internet, or bringing someone else’s data to you (Netflix), became completely viable ideas. And so we did. Welcome to the cloud. Because of the increasing reach of internet applications, we are having to rethink whether we need computers at all. Maybe, instead of replacing our laptop or desktop, we can get away with just having our smartphone and a tablet. I realize it’s not that simple yet, but it will be. Portable CIO is your local technology leader, and can help you with a wide array of services and advice. Give us a call at 925-552-7953, or email us, info@theportablecio. Advertorial com to discuss your situation. We’re here to help! out obtaining legal advice) proceeds to title the inherited assets jointly with Bill, mixing them up with community property funds. Suppose that a number of years goes by, during which various sources of income is deposited into and expenses are paid out of these accounts for many purposes. Then, the passage of time and volume of financial transactions is such that it is extraordinarily difficult to trace which assets are separate and which are community. Bill and Betty then get divorced, and Bill ends up with a substantial portion of Betty’s inheritance. What terms might John and Jane include in their Living Trust to protect against this scenario? The most common alternatives are: 1) Betty inherits outright but John and Jane have a delicate conversation with her to advise her to keep inherited assets separate from Bill; or 2) upon their death, a protective “spendthrift trust” (type of irrevocable trust) is to be established for Betty from which she has lifetime rights to access the inherited funds based on certain stated income and principal distribution standards. In my practice, I add another alternative into the mix: 3) Betty inherits outright but the trust states expressly that it is John and Jane’s strong desire that Betty keep the inherited assets as her separate property. Option 1 is fine for many. Option 2 has strong “outlaw” protection (and protection against other creditors of Betty); however, it’s a bit more costly and inconvenient to administer. Many clients like Option 3, using a clause I’ve developed that gives their children, like Betty, a tool. The clause does not handcuff Betty, but it enables her to explain to Bill that she needs to keep inherited assets separate to honor her parents’ wishes – rather than out of any distrust of or doubts about Bill or their marriage. Pros and cons of such alternatives should be discussed with an estate planning attorney so that your Living Trust can be drafted or revised in accordance with your applicable wishes. Mr. Silverman is an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group, 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 240, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474, rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw. com, www.silvermanlaw.com. * Estate Planning * Trust Administration & Probate * Real Estate * Business This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and is not intended nor should it be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain and rely upon specific advice only from their own qualified professional advisors. This communication is not intended or written to be used, for the purpose of: i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code; or ii) promoting, marketing, or recommending to another party any matters addressed herein. Advertorial
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 21
Happy Easter Sunday FREE Cleaning for New Patients! (must be accompanied by exam and x-rays) Expires May 01, 2014
Page 22 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Allergy Relief with Chiropractic Care
By Melissa Ko, DC, and Kimberly Liotta, DC, Sycamore Valley Chiropractic
Spring is a beautiful time of year in the East Bay with our gorgeous surroundings to enjoy. However, many spend this time of year suffering from seasonal allergies. For most it is a minor annoyance. But for some, allergy season can be a debilitating time where sufferers may Dr. Ko prefer to lock themselves indoors to avoid congestion, sneezing, itchy, watery eyes, headaches, asthma, and so on. Many allergy sufferers use medications such as antihistamines, nasal sprays, and inhalers to relieve their symptoms, but these can cause side effects like drowsiness. People are now turning to alternative and natural remedies to not only keep their allergies at bay but also to boost their immunity. As one of our patients complained, “I could do nothing, be miserable and never go out, or I could take something and spend the entire day feeling dopey…either choice is not a good way to live.” Allergy sufferers face this same dilemma, but the good news is that there are many remedies for relief available! Here are some basic tips to having clearer days: 1. Get plenty of sleep and water. Sleep deprivation wreaks havoc on your immune system and makes you more sensitive to allergens. Proper hydration will loosen mucus and ease drainage of congestion… drink half your body weight in ounces each day as a general rule. (eg. 150lbs=75oz of water) 2. Wash hair frequently. Hair is a great trap for pollen and other particles that will cause allergies even when you are not outdoors. Washing your hair in the evening will rinse these particles out. Pillowcases should also be washed and replaced often. 3. Keep an anti-inflammatory diet. Allergy symptoms are worsened when the body is inflamed - it is like turning up the volume on your sensitivity to allergens, to pain, etc. Be very strict about avoiding known food sensitivities and allergies. Avoid or reduce your intake of alcohol, excessive caffeine, highly processed foods and sugar as well as dairy, which is mucus-producing.
Natives continued from front
went out. A water feature and graceful retaining walls went in. “The first year our garden was transformed we spent more time outside than we had in the previous twenty years we had been here,” Kathy reports. For Al Kyte the impetus to replace grass, ivy and juniper at his Moraga home with native plants came from attending a University of California Extension class: “Attracting Birds to your Yard.” He writes: “There my eyes were first opened to the possibility of surrounding myself with the type of plants and habitat I loved to experience when fly fishing, back-packing or birding – California Native Plants. Instead of stepping out of our house into a garden, I could step out into the feel of a chaparral, woodland, or dry streambed. I have been influenced by people, books, and visits to Botanic gardens – but mostly by nature itself. I look for niches of beauty in nature to photograph and mimic.” Kyte has learned to plan for the natural succession of individual specimens, experiment with placement of favorites and look at his creation from
Euphorbia Gardens
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
4. Natural remedies, herbs, and supplements. Go to your local health food store and ask them to recommend remedies for allergies… there’ll be aisles full of them. Different herbs like stinging nettle leaf tea as well as vitamin C are natural antihistamines and are effective at reducing allergy symptoms without the side-effects of medications. A Neti Pot is an ancient method of gently clearing out the sinuses of allergenic particles using warm water. Go to your health food store to try one out! 5. A spoonful of honey. Many have had great results Dr. Liotta by taking a daily spoonful of honey (make sure it’s local!) to introduce small amounts of pollen from your area into your body so that your immune system can better tolerate the pollens. Grab some the next time you visit your farmers market. 6. Plan ahead. Check for days when pollens will be at their peak so that you can choose your activities wisely and not expose yourself to excessive allergens. 7. Chiropractic care! Most people think of back pain when they think of their chiropractor, but misalignments and tension in the neck and upper back worsen congestion by slowing down the drainage of fluids out of your sinuses and chest. Chiropractic adjustments do not cure or treat allergies, but by correcting these misalignments, our patients get great relief from allergy symptoms. There are also direct connections from the nervous system to immunity - correcting misalignments reduces pressure and inflammation on the delicate nerves that go to your organs and immune system for proper function. Chiropractic care is great for all ages, from babies to adults, and is a great option for kids. With so many options for natural allergy relief, these tips can be used as an alternative or in addition to any medications you are taking. Our office is certainly a resource for you to have your spine checked and aligned! Spring is a season bursting with life, and it can be enjoyed by all, allergy sufferers included! Sycamore Valley Chiropractic is located at 565 Sycamore Valley Rd. West in Danville. Please visit www.sycamorevalleychiropractic.com or call 925-837-5595 for more information or to schedule an Advertorial appointment. Doctors of Sycamore Valley Chiropractic every possible angle. A walk through his garden is a journey across miles of California wilderness managed in a few memorable moments. Nancy Wenninger, Mt. Diablo Audubon Society Conservation Chair, counts more than ninety species of birds among the creatures taking advantage of her Walnut Creek garden. “I got into gardening through birding and making the connection between the habitat where I found the birds and the plants that grew there,” Nancy explains. Maintaining a healthy ecosystem simplifies her gardening tasks. “It is amazing how problems disappear. I haven’t used pesticides in 20 years. Soldier beetles, for example, control the aphids.” Ninety-five percent of garden insects are beneficial. Birds are excellent at eradicating the 5% that aren’t. Stephen Barbata and Joyce Kirstein welcome wildlife by combining drought-tolerant Mediterranean plants with California natives. The acre they garden, once part of the 160-acre Walnut Creek ranch owned by worldfamous nineteenth century performer Papinta the Flame Dancer, holds a few reminders of former residents. “One old fig tree,” Kirstein comments, “serves as a cafeteria for many species.” Restoration of the creek along the edge of the property is an ongoing project. First published in the Richmond Record in 1901, a description the creek meandering along the Papinta Stock Farm reads: “…for miles along its banks all sorts of sylvan loveliness abound, and there are wildflowers, ferns and bits of beauty in abundance.” Barbata underscores the importance of giving nature a chance to rebalance. “Pine Creek is part of a wildlife corridor that extends from Mount Diablo to Golden Gate. We hope what we do along our portion of the creek may in some small way contribute to ‘rewilding’ that corridor and keeping the food chain moving so that predators can keep the herbivores in check.” Whimsical sculptures placed throughout the garden invite humans to linger, while plentiful food beckons nature’s artists to put on a show. In celebration the 10th anniversary of the tour, human musicians will be accompanying the natural symphony of birdsong in many gardens. Some native plant nurseries will be open on May 3rd for tour participants, others
See Natives continued on page 24
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
The Eye Opener
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 23
By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry Seasonal Allergies and Daily Disposable Contact Lenses
If there is one thing we can count on this time of year, it is seasonal allergies. Speaking from a personal point of view, I know dealing with a running nose, sneezing, itchy eyes, and tearing is no fun. I am already having patients come into the office with complaints similar to my own. The treatment plan for each person is different, but the drugs, drops, and contact lens modalities we use are similar. To tackle the allergies, most of us take either a prescription or over-the-counter antihistamine. These usually help alleviate some of the systemic symptoms of runny nose, congestion, etc. However, the main side effect of these medications is ocular dryness. If the eyes are dry, it can actually worsen some of the ocular symptoms because there are now fewer tears to wash away the allergens in your eye. So instead of flushing those allergens out of the eye, they now stay on the ocular surface and exacerbate the symptoms of itching, swelling, and tearing. For this reason, I also recommend topical drops to help in the fight against allergies. These drops do not solve the problems, but they generally enable the patient to function in the spring months. There are several types of drops that can be used, depending on the severity of the symptoms. For a mild case, I usually recommend non-preserved artificial tears and an antihistamine drop like Bepreve or Lastacraft; these are only two of the several prescription drops to utilize. These drops are site-specific; they only have their effect on the histamine-releasing cells on the eye and therefore do not have the broad systemic effects of oral antihistamines. For the more advanced case, I recommend a short-term use of a topical steroid, which will calm the eye down relatively quickly. Because of the potential side effects of a steroid, a drop of this kind should only be used for a relatively short period of time. I usually instruct my patients to use the drop for about a week, and then use the topical antihistamines to keep the allergic reaction at bay. I believe the use of steroids should only be used when indicated, but it is a wise treatment choice in those patients that are really suffering. For those contact lens wearers, this is the time of year that leads to decreased wear time, build-up on the lenses, and overall intolerance of wear. Most patients wear their lenses for less time and/or dispose of them more often. For all of my potential contact lens patients, including those with allergy issues, I recommend using daily disposable contacts. These lenses are thin, are easy to adapt to, do not require any cleaning or solutions, and are always comfortable because a fresh lens is put on every day. Whether you are a recreational wearer for sports or weekends or wear them every day, these lenses are best for convenience, lens hygiene, and lens comfort. A new lens leads to better vision and eye health because of no lens build up and a decreased risk for infection. Even though wearing contact lenses during the spring months might be difficult, having a fresh lens every day provides the possibility of longer and comfortable wear. Obviously, every patient and situation is different. Some patients don’t like taking drops, and some patients are in love with their current lenses, so daily disposables might not be an option. At your office visit, you will be evaluated on your particular signs and symptoms and be given the appropriate treatment plan. The issues and treatments discussed have generally worked well for my patients in the past. Most of the time, it will be a combination of these treatments that will work best. Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at 820-6622 or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165 in Alamo. Visit our newly updated website at www.alamooptometry.com and like us on our Advertorial Alamo Optometry Facebook page.
Kitchen Tour
The Lafayette Juniors will hold their 15th Annual Kitchen Tour on Saturday, May 17th, from 10am – 3pm. Tour six special Lafayette homes with unique rustic, ranch, Cape Cod, open concept, traditional, and farmhouse style kitchens. The tour benefits First Place for Youth, STAND!, the Lafayette Library, SEED, and Twin Canyon Camp. Tickets are $40 ($30 tax deductible), with a box lunch available for $15. Purchase tickets online at www.lafayettejuniors.org or from Douglah Designs and Premier Kitchens in Lafayette.
Lose a Lawn, Get A Garden!
The Gardens at Heather Farm and the Contra Costa Water District present “Lose a Lawn, Get A Garden!” on April 26 and August 23 from 9AM - noon at Contra Costa Water District Center, located at 1331 Concord Avenue in Concord. This inspiring and informative free workshop is designed for homeowners interested in replacing their existing water-thirsty lawns with beautiful water efficient landscaping. Experts will provide advice and instruction about design, irrigation, and plants native to the Diablo Valley climate. In addition, participants will learn about Contra Costa Water District’s Lawn to Garden Rebate program. Participants will be able to meet with a variety of landscape professionals. Registration is required for this FREE program in order to receive an informational packet. For more information and to register, please visit www.gardenshf.org or call (925) 947-1678.
Page 24 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Stop Locating the Nearest Bathroom By Judson Brandeis, MD
Do you constantly feel like you “gotta go”? When you leave the house, do you always look where the nearest bathroom is, just in case? Bladder control problems are more common than you might think. Having an overactive bladder can affect your quality of life, and 16% of the adult population, or about 33 million people, have this condition, according to the Journal of Urology. People with an Overactive Bladder, or OAB, often experience: 1. High urinary frequency: More than eight times in a 24 hour period 2. Urinary urgency: A strong, compelling need to urinate that cannot be delayed 3. Urge incontinence: Wetting accidents which occur before reaching a toilet If you have bladder control issues, don’t let embarrassment stand in the way of finding a solution. After talking with a doctor, most people start with conservative therapies. For example, patients start by doing exercises like kegels to strengthen the pelvic floor muscle. Other first-step treatment options might include dietary modification, bladder training programs, and prescription medication. Now there is another option: Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation, otherwise known as PTNS, which is a non-drug, non-surgical therapy that is helping many people with OAB take control. Bladder function is regulated by a group of nerves at the base of the spine called the sacral nerve plexus. By stimulating these nerves through gentle electrical impulses, you can gain better control of your bladder. The Urgent PC Neuromodulation System provides this low-risk treatment by indirectly stimulating the nerves responsible for bladder function using a nerve in your lower leg. Up to 80% of people who get PTNS have significant improvement in their bladder control symptoms, even when other treatment options have failed them in the past. To get an Urgent PC treatment, you visit a clinician’s office. During treatment you will sit with your foot elevated. This allows the clinician to stimulate the area near your tibial nerve using a very thin needle temporarily placed in your ankle. Impulses travel along your leg to the nerves in your pelvis that control bladder function. What does a PTNS treatment feel like? Most people simply feel a mild tingling sensation in their foot or ankle during treatment. You will receive an initial series of 12 treatments for 30 minutes each, typically scheduled a week apart. After the initial 12 treatments, you may only need occasional treatments or none at all. Dr. Brandeis is a urologist with Pacific Urology. His practice provides a “Continence Center” for men and women. For more information or to schedule an appointment to learn if PTNS can help you, visit our website Advertorial www.pacific-urology.com or call 925-937-7740.
Natives continued from page 22
will be open on May 4th. Workshops are a recent addition. On Saturday, April 12th, renowned environmental educator Judy Adler invites 15 pre-registered guests to “Gardening with Nature in Mind: Part 2. Part 1 is not a pre-requisite for this in-depth study of sustainable gardening principles, from harvesting rainwater to collecting and preserving seeds. Adler’s Walnut Creek garden is a testament to how much food can be produced for human and wildlife consumption in a relatively small plot. “Nothing toxic enters and nothing organic leaves my garden,” Adler proudly announces. When the front gutters on her house needed to be replaced, she studied revamping the system to collect and store rainwater. “I water my garden with nature’s water rather than treated water wherever possible.” One of the first gardens to be certified as a Backyard Wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation, Adler’s yard contains over 400 species of plants. “I use plants as the vehicle to attract pollinators and beneficial insects.” Adler used recycled materials to construct her lathe house, which is cleverly designed with a window shutter transforming into a teaching surface and built-in storage benches doubling as seating. The elaborate Bringing Back the Natives Garden Guide mailed free to each registrant takes months to produce and is funded by donations. Gardens for the 2015 tour are now being solicited. Kathy will personally visit each
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
HPV and Head & Neck Cancer By Matthew Sirott, MD
April has been designated “Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month.” Historically, it was assumed that head and neck cancers were caused by excessive use of tobacco and alcohol. Within the last five years, however, a new risk factor has reared its ugly head. Head and neck cancers account for 6% of cancers in the United States today. Head and neck cancers are typically squamous cell carcinomas, found in the mouth, nose, and throat. The most common types of head and neck cancers are oral cancers and orophayngeal cancers. Oral cancers are classified as cancers of the oral cavity (gums or inside of cheek) and are primarily caused by heavy tobacco and alcohol use. Oropharyngeal cancers include cancers of the base of the tongue and tonsils, primarily caused by HPV. Some studies indicate that by the time oropharyngeal cancers are diagnosed two thirds of them are already in late stage III and IV. Symptoms of head and neck cancer can include a lump or sore in the mouth that does not heal, a sore throat that does not go away, difficulty swallowing, and a change in voice. Typical treatment for head and neck cancers includes surgery and radiation treatment. Chemotherapy may be used in the more advanced stages. Heavy alcohol and tobacco use (including smokeless tobacco) are known to cause at least 75% of head and neck cancers. Smoking increases your risk by 15%, and people who use both tobacco and alcohol are at a greater risk. Head and neck cancers that develop due to alcohol and tobacco use typically occur on or near the areas with the most contact (where a cigarette sits on the lip, or where chewing tobacco is placed in the mouth). A newer risk factor for developing head and neck cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV). Currently in the United States, the incidence of head and neck cancers caused by HPV is increasing, while head and neck cancers caused by alcohol and tobacco are decreasing. The human papillomavirus (HPV) is a DNA virus from the papilloma virus family that is capable of infecting humans. It is the most common sexually transmitted infection with an estimated 6.2 million people being newly infected each year. Cervical cancer is the most common cancer caused by the HPV infection; however oropharyngeal cancers are clearly on the rise. Not all types of HPV are cancer causing, however. Studies show that 7% of people in the United States have some type of HPV, while 1% of the population has HPV-16 (a type of oral HPV). Oral HPV is about three times more common in men than it is in women. The HPV vaccine currently on the market is strongly recommended for young women and men. The vaccine was developed to prevent cervical and other less common genital cancers. The vaccine might also prevent head and neck cancers since the vaccine helps prevent initial infection with HPV types. However, there are currently no studies that can determine if the HPV vaccine would help prevent head and neck cancers. To decrease your chances of contracting HPV and oral HPV, the best alternative is to use protection when engaging in any form of sexual activity. If you have any of the symptoms listed above, or think you may have contracted HPV, visit your doctor immediately to be tested. In recognition of Oral Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Week, we are partnering with Dr. Arash Mohebati from Walnut Creek Surgical Associates to provide free visual screenings on April 22. By appointment only - please call 925-933-0984. Dr. Sirott is a Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group – located in Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, San Ramon and Brentwood. For more information, call 925-677-5041 or Advertorial visit www.DVOHMG.com. prospective garden between early May and July to assess suitability for the tour as well has how each space contributes to the overall offering. Each year she includes gardens from a wide range of East Bay microclimates from Livermore to Oakland. Sizes range this year from a 400–square-foot gem packed with native flowers to a sprawling five-acre restored woodland retreat. To properly appreciate how much information 2013 Jefferson award winner Kathy Kramer’s Bringing Back the Natives program has to offer, visit www.bringingbackthenatives.net. View current and past tour gardens, find sources for native plants, study the work of various landscape designers, register for workshops and the tour, volunteer to be a greeter or guide, or make a monetary contribution to this non-profit resource.
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Attend a Mindful Parenting Workshop and Learn to Parent with Greater Awareness, Presence and Calm By Joree Rosenblatt
Mindful parenting is the daily, moment-to-moment practice of bringing awareness, consciousness and introspection into your own life as well as the lives of your children. Being a mindful parent means first creating a place of centering and calm for yourself, which then gives you the ability to respond and not react to whatever is arising in the moment. Once you cultivate this intention for yourself, you are able to be more fully present in the lives of your children, which allows for the possibility to approach each new moment with greater attention and intention. This will create an atmosphere of increased empathy, compassion and understanding, resulting in more positive exchanges and less arguing and unskillful reacting. So often, parents operate from a place of being on autopilot. We go through the same routines, the same schedules, and the same patterns of disciplining our kids that we don’t often slow down to connect with ourselves, or in a meaningful way with our kids, to see each moment anew. These habitual ways and lack of awareness can leave parents feeling frustrated by the day-to-day ups and downs that is naturally part of the parenting process and can make it difficult to find the joy amidst the chaos. Mindfulness offers the tools to cultivate a practice that allows for the ability to slow down, take stock in your own life and then proceed forward with intention and presence. Mindful parenting is also about parenting to who your child actually is, versus who you think they are, want them to be, or think they should be. By creating space to observe your own life, your thoughts and emotions and
In Plastic Surgery, it’s the Little Things that Count By Barbara Persons, MD, Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc.
For most of us, the littlest things can have the biggest impact on our happiness. As a mother of three, nothing makes me happier than a pair of little arms from one of my kids wrapped around my neck. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, nothing is more precious to me than the big hug I get from a patient on whom I have operated after a difficult ordeal (like breast cancer) or performed a cosmetic procedure on that helps them get their ‘groove’ back. I think a lot about the little things as summer approaches and we begin to bare more of our skin. Many people panic about this level of exposure and we begin to focus on the parts of our body and face that feel less than perfect to us. What most people unfamiliar with cosmetic and reconstructive surgery do not know is that there are many little ways that we can address and improve how we look that can have a huge impact on how we feel about ourselves. In many cases, my patients experience the most satisfying results when we take an incremental approach to improvements. For example, using fillers like Radiesse®, Juvéderm®, and Restylane® in strategic spots on the face can create a look of vibrancy and youth that is completely natural, budget-friendly, and results in no down-time. This is also the time of year when many of my patients choose to do more advanced procedures like blepharoplasty (eyelid lifts) and breast augmentation or lifts. While these surgeries do require more healing time, the impact they have is quite remarkable. Here are a few of the procedures that we offer at Persons Plastic Surgery, Lafayette that can help you look and feel ready for summer: Fraxel® Laser is proven laser technology that can help reverse the visible effects of aging, naturally helping you look as young as you feel. Fraxel technology is proven, effective, and non-invasive. Fraxel® Laser is the original fractional laser treatment that works below the skin’s surface to address fine lines and wrinkles, surface scarring, pigmentation (including age spots), and sun damage. Fractionated laser light energy stimulates your skin’s natural collagen, rejuvenating skin cells below the surface to help smooth the creases and pockets that cause wrinkles and scars. Patients can see results after a single Fraxel treatment and will continue to see softer, smoother, and more eventoned skin over the next 3-6 months. There are several types of Fraxel procedures
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 25 your unskillful patterns and reactions, you are then able to see life as it is, without judgment, but rather with acceptance. This “as-is” mindset then allows you to see your child as they are and make choices with greater awareness, giving you the possibility of developing deep, lasting, and meaningful relationships with your kids. I am hosting an exciting event for parents to come together and gain the tools to parent with greater awareness, presence, and calm. This four-hour mindful parenting workshop will be on Saturday, May 17th from 9:30am-1:30pm at The Seven Hills School in Walnut Creek. Parents will learn the tools to: • Decrease your yelling, frustration and ineffective discipline • Develop techniques to strengthen the connection with your child • Cultivate your own inner place of calm and peace, to help find the joy amidst the chaos • Increase your moment-to-moment presence, allowing you to respond and not react • Generate greater interpersonal awareness and communication for optimal co-parenting • Let go of expectations of how you thought parenting was supposed to be and accept what is For more information, or to sign up, please visit my website at www.joreerose. com or email me at joree@joreerose.com. In the meantime, don’t forget to take a minute and just breathe. Joree Rosenblatt is a mindfulness educator and teaches mindfulness to kids, adults and in corporate and educational settings. To learn more about mindfulness, or to find out how to take Joree’s mindfulness classes or set up an individual session, please visit www.joreerose.com or call (925) 212-2996. Advertorial to meet your specific needs. For most Fraxel Laser procedures, there are few side effects and low downtime. As with all procedures, a consultation with our expert staff will help you decide if Fraxel Laser or another laser treatment is right for you. Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure for saggy eyelids. Eyelid surgery (upper and lower) is a great way to rejuvenate and refresh your appearance. This procedure targets the bulges, bags, and excess skin of the upper and lower eyelids that can make you look tired and droopy-eyed. While saggy eyelids may start as early as our 20’s, eventually, it affects everyone. Happily, no matter what your age, it can be surgically corrected to create a more youthful and vibrant-looking you. At Persons Plastic Surgery, we usually perform upper and lower lid surgery simultaneously. But we can address just upper or lower as needed, or in conjunction with face, neck, or brow lift surgery. What makes eyelid surgery such an excellent ‘quick fix’ procedure is that there is usually only mild discomfort and little downtime. You may see some discoloration, but this will improve after a week or two. And most patients can go back to work in 8 to 10 days. You will look like you, only better. As a Plastic Surgeon, I have a great passion to help my patients look and feel their best. At Persons Plastic Surgery, we take a holistic approach to helping you look and feel happy. We invite you to come in for a consultation. Even a minor procedure can have a major effect on your sense of well-being. Small can be the new big! Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. is located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. To contact me call 925-283-4012 or email drbarb@ personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial
925.934.3743 • 925.934.1515
www.dumploadsonus.com • www.erecycleonus.com 1271 Boulevard Way, Walnut Creek Monday-Friday, 8-5 • Saturday 9-1, Sunday, closed
Page 26 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Your Personal Nutritionist
Teen Weight Loss Made Simple, Yummy, and Healthy By Linda Michaelis RD,MS
I have worked with many local teens that want to lose weight and look their best. I was an overweight teen, and I feel very qualified to counsel teens because of my own personal problem as well as 25 years of teen counseling experience. I know that majoring in nutrition was a huge help to my success with weight loss, and nutrition education is what a teen needs to lose weight and keep it off. Let me tell you about my teen client Diane. Diane attends a local high school, is in leadership, and plays soccer. Diane is certainly quite active, but unfortunately, because of her busy schedule, she ends up eating most of her food at the end of the day. Her breakfast used to consist of a bowl of Honey Nut Cheerios, and the rest of the day she would consume smoothies, Think Thin and Clif bars, as well as yogurts. Diane was eating a low fiber, low protein, and high sugar diet. At night with her family she would eat double servings of meat and starches and often skip the veggies because they did not taste good to her. At night she would snack on more bowls of Honey Nut Cheerios which, she thought was a healthy choice. I calculated that at night she was consuming at least 1,500 calories. In my initial session with Diane I evaluated a food diary she had kept and showed her where her meals were lacking in protein and fiber. I taught her how to read food labels for serving size, percentage of calories from fat, and grams of protein, fiber, and sugar. I always tell my client that the food label is backwards, in that we do not have the metric system and we do not go by grams, and that protein is listed as the last item when it should be first along with dietary fiber. I continued to teach Diane that 1 oz. of protein is equal to 7 grams. Now she could see that her Honey Nut Cheerios have a skimpy 2 grams of protein compared to the king of cereals, Kashi Go Lean, which has 13 grams of protein or about 2 oz. When you add a cup of milk to the meal, you get an additional ounce of protein and thus a breakfast can have 3 oz. of protein. I was adamant with Diane that she consume at least 8 ounces of protein and 15 grams of fiber before dinner. After also looking at a list of favorite foods that I asked Diane to bring in, I began setting up a meal plan for her. For breakfast Diane agreed to have oatmeal
Ranch continued from page 18
put up and store a ton or so of hay for each cow or horse to be fed the next winter,” according to Don Wood. The valley provided hay for animals in San Francisco for many years, making it a reliable source of income for ranchers and farmers until the advent of cars and trucks in the early 20 th century. Wood wrote, “The U.S. Cavalry posted at the Presidio, liveries and dray horses in San Francisco created a very big market for good quality hay.” After the railroad opened in 1891, the Danville station had corrals for livestock. According to the Contra Costa Gazette July 16, 1892: “One carload of beef cattle and veal calves was shipped from Danville stock corrals yesterday, and an occasional carload of hay is shipped direct to some consumer, but very little will be thrown on the market this season. A few would-be buyers of hay have been around but cannot pay satisfactory prices at present.” Don Wood wrote that “Barbed wire became generally available in the early 1880s,” displacing the split redwood posts “except for corral fencing, as the primary fence materials.” Cattle raising was a primary part of valley agriculture for some ranchers during the 20th century. Frank Macedo Sr. and Jr. owned and leased land at Mt. Diablo’s foothills with their headquarters in Alamo. The Blackhawk Ranch grew to 6,500 acres and grazed at least 1,000 cattle. Wood Ranch raised both cattle and sheep. Dougherty Valley’s 10,000 acres were primarily cattle country with some hay and grains. And the Wiedemanns eventually raised cattle on owned and Offer expires 04/30/14
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
or Kashi Go Lean with some fruit after trying a sample at my office. Diane liked the idea of taking to school for a mid-morning snack an apple with peanut butter, beef jerky, or a small pack of almonds. Diane was open to trying Trader Joe’s fresh grilled chicken strips cut up and mixed with a cup of beans and salsa or a leftover chicken breast with veggies and brown rice. She is going to make it a routine to take the second serving that she used to have for dinner and save it for lunch the next day and add tasty veggies that she liked. When she came home from school before soccer practice she liked the idea of having a hearty soup such as lentil or black bean or even a bowl of oatmeal. Diane has traded all of her smoothies for eating fresh fruit and is drinking more water than ever. She has completely eliminated bars and is trading Yoplait yogurt for low-sugar Greek yogurts. I was glad that Diane reported after our meeting that she went off to practice at PM 5 feeling better than ever with high energy. She no longer came home famished and can control her portions at night and better yet did not feel the need to snack endlessly in the evening. Now she is happy with a fat-free fudgesicle or creamsicle or even some sorbet. Diane and I worked together for several follow-up sessions where we discussed strategies for parties, social situations, and restaurant eating with friends and family. The number one lesson that I taught Diane was to not go to a party hungry and to avoid filling up on unhealthy junk food that is usually available at teen gatherings. When it is a buffet, I taught Diane to first scan the choices and set up a plan instantly in her mind and keep to it. It is fine if she makes room for dessert, as long as she eats less starches and fat. Diane would always inform me beforehand about a restaurant that she was going to, and we would preview the menu together online. We came up with options that she would enjoy. Often she said she did not even open the menu and ordered exactly what we discussed. I am glad to inform you that Diane has lost 10 pounds in one month, and we are still working together via phone and e-mail. Her goal is to lose 10 more pounds before the summer. The good news is that Diane’s visits were covered by Sutter Select insurance with a small copay. Please feel to call me at (925) 855-0150 or e-mail me at Lifeweight1@yahoo.com, and tell me about your nutritional concerns. Refer to my website www.LindaRD.com for past articles, recipes and nutrition tips in my blog section. Advertorial leased land of 8,000 acres. Be sure to visit the exhibit at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville and see “Cowboys and Cattlemen, Ranching in the San Ramon Valley.” Ranchers talk with visitors each Saturday. For more information, see museumsrv.org.
Offer expires 04/30/14
Offer expires 04/30/14
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Danville Today News ~ April 2014 - Page 27
Oral cancer screenings
(925) 837-6052 info@AmindaModrellDDS.com 3176 Danville Blvd., Suite 2 Alamo, CA 94507
Sun Safety
By Dr. Jerome Potozkin
Spring has sprung. Although we did not have much of a winter it is always great when spring arrives. Living in the Bay Area provides many opportunities for outdoor fun. When I was training to be a dermatologist (in the old days), I remember my instructors advising their patients not to go out in the sun. I thought this was impractical advice since life is too short to sit inside all day. I also love outdoor activities and could not imagine abandoning them. If you are a biker, golfer, or hiker that is exactly what you should be doing. There are some simple guidelines for practicing safe sun: 1. Avoid the peak sun hours between 10AM and 2PM 2. Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 and up every day 3. Reapply sunscreen 4. Do not use sunscreen as an excuse to spend more time in the sun 5. Wear protective clothing such as hats, sunglasses, shirts, and rash guards while swimming There have been some controversial articles appearing in the press regarding the safety of sunscreens. The two ingredients that have come under scrutiny are Oxybenzone and Retinyl Palmitate. Oxybenzone is a broad spectrum sunscreen ingredient has been FDA approved since 1978. It has been used for many years and acts to absorb the sun’s harmful UV rays. Despite recent reports in the media, scientific evidence and years of use do not indicate any hormonal changes or adverse health effects in humans when used in sunscreens. Retinyl Palmitate is a Vitamin A (retinol) derivative and is not an active drug. It is used in sunscreens as an anti-oxidant. There is no scientific evidence that these ingredients cause any cancers when used in sunscreen. In fact, Vitamin A derivatives (retinoids) have been shown to prevent certain skin cancers. Currently, the only way that sunscreen use could lead to an increase in skin cancer is if you decide that because you are using sunscreen that you are going to spend more time in the sun. What about Vitamin D? Many people are aware that sun exposure stimulates the formation of Vitamin D in our bodies and are concerned that sunscreen will result in Vitamin D deficiency. One can easily get enough Vitamin D by eating foods that
are rich in Vitamin D (dairy, fish, cereals, and foods fortified with Vitamin D). If you have any concerns, you may ask your doctor to check your Vitamin D level. In addition to practicing safe sun, it is recommended that you get a complete skin examination on an annual basis by a board certified dermatologist. You should also check your moles and spots once a month. If you would like to join the many local residents who have seen Dr. Potozkin and have had a full body skin exam, or if you have a spot you would like to have evaluated, please feel free to contact Dr. Potozkin’s office. Remember to have fun but also practice “safe sun.” Dr. Potozkin is a board certified dermatologist who has been serving the local community since 1993. His fully accredited dermatological and laser facility is located at 600 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Suite 102 in Danville. He is accepting new patients. Please call (925) 838-4900 or visit Potozkin.com for more information. Advertorial
C L A S S I F I E D ELECTRICAL WORK
EVERYTHING ELECTRICAL! Need new light fixtures, ceiling fans, recessed lighting, or track lighting installed? Need a dimmer switch or GFCI installed? Do you want to change the color of your outlets in your kitchen or install 220V power for the new hot tub or stove? I also troubleshoot electrical problems. FREE ESTIMATES. Licensed and bonded. 30 years experience. CALL 925-389-6964.
Danville Today Classifieds
Reach over 15,000 homes and businesses in Danville - Help Wanted, For Sale, Services, Lessons, Pets, Rentals, Wanted, Freebies... $35 for up to 45 words. $5 for each additional 15 words. Send or email submissions to: 3000F Danville Blvd #117, Alamo, CA 94507 or editor@yourmonthlypaper.com. Run the same classified ad in our sister papers “Alamo Today” or “Lafayette Today” and pay half off for your second and/or third ad! Payment by check made out to “The Editors” must be received before ad will print. Your cancelled check is your receipt. We reserve the right to reject any ad.
Page 28 - April 2014 ~ Danville Today News
The Combs Team
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
Professionals You Can Count On
Nancy
Joe
Call the Combs Team
®
9 2 5 -9 8 9 -6 0 86 www.TheCombsTeam.com
Danville Real Estate Market: Seller’s Market, Prices Increasing Faster!
As of this writing there are 40 Danville (94526) single family homes listed as active on MLS. Eighty-three properties are listed as pending, and during the last three months a total of 82 properties were sold. The average days on market before a sale is completed stands at 25. This is by any measure a great seller’s market. We’ve included a bell curve and divided the market into 25%, 50%, and 75% percentiles to give you a better sense of how properties fared at different price points. Of note is that the lowest price points and the highest price points closed in 25 and 36 days respectively while the middle price point homes were less at 19 days on market. Within each of the three groupings you’ll see that average and median price are very close with the greatest difference occurring in the grouping of the most expensive homes. The majority of homes are selling between $839,735 and $1,219,000, with the average falling at $1,022,500. This average is about $182,000 higher than last year’s average price. This year’s price increase is $120,000 more than last year’s price increase. It’s an amazingly large rise in the price of Danville Real Estate in a very short space of time. As markets tend to balance with regard to supply, demand and price, low inventory and high demand are driving prices higher. The question remains, “Will the supply of Danville homes for sale begin to increase in response to rising price”? The attached chart titled “New Properties” suggests that supply remains low. From December 2013 inventory rose mark-
edly through February and then declined again in March 2014. Unless we see a flood of new properties hit the market during the springtime, I’d guess prices will continue to rise. It’s not hard to imagine folks who’ve seen their Danville properties increase in value by more than $300,000 during the last couple of years are a bit reluctant to part with them. A normal Danville Market would have two hundred properties for sale during this time of year. Given the current trend line, it doesn’t seem likely we’ll hit the normal level anytime soon. The second big question, “Will prices in Danville fall back when inventory reaches normal levels?” I wouldn’t bet on it. I think as long as we don’t get a sudden dramatic rise in interest rates, prices will continue to increase. If you recall, interest rates during the last peak hovered between 5% and 6%. Given Federal Secretary Yellens’ comments, I think it’s unlikely to see interest rates return to those levels for a couple of years, unless something unexpected and really bad happens. If rates do move gradually to more normal levels as I expect they will, the more likely scenario will be for days on market to extend to the normal three to six month time frame. We’ll see fewer multiple over bids, more negotiation will take place throughout the sales process and it will require more effort to attract a buyer. Until those things happen, the Danville Real Estate Market should continue to be very strong. Nancy and I have more than 1,000 email subscribers who receive this article in advance of publication. Just send me an email and we can add you to the list. I assure you no spam will follow. It’s important to remember there really is no “average” home and no two homes are exactly alike. If you would like an honest no strings attached opinion of your home’s current market value and suggestions for getting it ready for market, please give me a call 925-989-6086 or send me an email joecombs@thecombsteam.com.
Just Listed Danville Charmer
Alamo Oaks
NG D I L D O SN PE 3 bedroom, 2 bath home on flat lot backing a creek. Walk to 12 years of SRVUSD schools! Call for details.
Updated 4 bedroom 3595 sq. foot home with 1.13 acre lot. Perfect for horses or a vineyard. Call for details.
Danville Single Story
Auction Sale
p ulti
ith M w D SOL
rs
ffe le O
Charming 3 bedroom Single Story with large master suite and flat lot. Sold 105% over List Price.
ING
D
PEN
Beautiful 4 bedroom 4 bath 4200 sq. ft. home. We are representing the buyer. $1,450,000
Data presented in this column is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Contra Costa and Alameda MLS service and other quoted sources. Joe Combs, Nancy Combs, The Combs Team, J. Rockcliff and the MLS service do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. DRE #0144125.
Build Your Dream Home
left! e n yo Onl Beautiful oak studded lots for sale, one is 7 acres one is 11 acres. $500k each J. Rockcliff Realtors 15 Railroad Ave., Danville CA. 94526