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February 2014 Museum of the San Ramon Valley: Preserving and Promoting Our Heritage By Jody Morgan
In 1983, when the San Ramon Valley Historical Society created a committee to analyze the logistics of establishing a local museum, the problem being confronted was enormous. The entire San Ramon Valley (the Valley) had only 2,120 residents in 1940. By 1980, Danville alone had more than 12 times that number and the census indicated that 82 percent of those individuals had moved into town since 1970. How do you motivate people without multigenerational ties to the locale to preserve the area’s historic heritage and protect the cultural character of the community for future generations? Following the committee’s recommendation, a separate non-profit organization was formed. On February 27, 1985, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley (MusSRV) held its first meeting. Although the goal was to collect and preserve documents and artifacts, provide a research library, mount exhibits and develop educational programs, MusSRV initially had no building of its own to house the archives and displays. The first phase of the Board’s five-year plan called for visiting local history museums throughout the East Bay Curator Beverly Lane talks about the preservation of to learn from their strengths and the textile collection. weaknesses. The MusSRV Board of Trustees elected Beverly Lane as their first President. Lane, who served on Danville’s original town council in 1982, had just completed the first of her three terms as Mayor. Writing about her work in Vintage Danville, Lane recalls: “For me, promoting a sense of community and preserving Danville’s historic buildings was a major goal. The first town council shared this vision, which has become part of our legacy.” Today, as Curator of MusSRV, Lane emphasizes: “It is important to point out that the museum focuses on the entire San Ramon Valley – Alamo, Danville, San Ramon, Diablo, Blackhawk, Dougherty Valley.” Walking tours through old town Danville had already been initiated by longterm residents Millie Freitas, Rose Ferreira, and Betty Dunlap. Museum volunteers followed along as they led scout and school groups through the town. The photographs and information gathered helped MusSRV design and launch its own tours. In addition to regularly scheduled tours through Danville, MusSRV offers special programs and visits to the Alamo Cemetery with costumed interpreters introducing the Valley pioneers interred there. School programs came next. Two teachers from the San Ramon Valley United School District (SRVUSD), Gail Faber and Michele Lasagna, had developed a curriculum certified by the state entitled “Whispers from the First Californians.” Lane provided additional research and Oakland Museum docents helped to shape the Indian Life Program for fourth graders. The program, initiated in 1991, now acquaints all fourth graders in the SRVUSD with the lifestyle of the Valley’s first families who arrived 5,000 years ago. Students hear creation stories of the Cali-
See Museum continued on page 23
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Cadette Girl Scouts and Monte Vista High School freshmen (left to right)- Julia Leong, Katlyn Thomas, and Alexandra Nave earned their Silver Award by working to earn money to purchase and provide Danville police dog, Chef, a new protective vest. Pictured above, Chief Simpkins, and Officer Rossberg with Chef pose with the girls.
Become a CASA Volunteer! By Fran Miller
Every year in Contra Costa County, more than a thousand neglected or abused children find themselves unable to live safely at home. These children end up in the care of the court system where into their lives come dozens of strangers: police, foster parents, social workers, judges, lawyers, and likely a CASA volunteer. CASA stands for “court appointed special advocate.” These trained volunteers advocate for neglected children, making sure they do not get lost in the overburdened legal system or languish in an inappropriate group or foster home. CASA volunteers maintain ongoing communication with all parties involved in a court case to best serve the child’s interests and identify and address the child’s needs. For many of these children, their CASA volunteer may be the one constant caring adult presence, providing companionship and consistency. Charlie Mead has been executive director of CASA of Contra Costa County for the past five and a half years, and was previously director of the Marin County program for seven years. As director, he works with a volunteer board of directors, a paid office staff of seven, and with the program volunteers in achieving CASA’s mission of recruiting, training Volume V - Number 4 and supporting its volunteer advocates. He is the 3000F Danville Blvd. #117, public face of CASA, introducing the agency’s Alamo, CA 94507 work to the community through presentations to a (925) 405-6397 variety of civic, governmental, and private sector Fax (925) 406-0547 audiences. His passion for his work is palpable. “I have the great honor to be involved in Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher editor@ a community benefit organization that is yourmonthlypaper.com helping the most vulnerable children in our communities,” says Mead. “The most mean- The opinions expressed herein belong the writers, and do not necessarily ingful overarching aspect of my work is our toreflect that of Danville Today News. Danville Today News is not volunteers and how their commitment to the for the content of any of children for whom they advocate makes such a responsible the advertising herein, nor does
See CASA continued on page 20
publication imply endorsement.
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Page 2 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Boulevard View
By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
“Happy Birthday Ken,” I posted on his Facebook wall along with a picture of Ken and his sixth grade elementary school class. After scanning and tagging faces of my 60,000+ photos, I have many old photos to share with my friends. While I am not a huge Facebook fan or contributor, I try and recognize friends birthdays with a message and often an old photo of themselves. I had gone to several years of elementary school with Ken, and we also attended the same junior high and high school. The last few years of Ken’s elementary school education had been spent at the same school as my husband attended and hence the class picture I had saved, shared, and tagged him in. The birthday wish to Ken received a few, “Like’s” and multiple mentions of the 70’s fashions -- paisley and plaid prints, preppy and Amish/Little House on the Prairie attire dotted the outfits. Ken, commenting on his own pair of pants, noted, “I think the pants came from a tablecloth or picnic blanket.” As other friends (and former classmates) joined in on the thread of conversation, someone recalled a crush they had on one of their classmates, and another wrote, “Remember ‘Squish’ and [also] ‘Bananas Burton’?” recalling childhood nicknames. Most of the classmates were remembered and “tagged,” and many joined in the conversation, memory reflection, and birthday wishes. The young teacher was mentioned in comments like,“Did that teacher just step off the set of Dukes of Hazard?” Students in the class then started remembering more about the teacher and how he had taken a bronze medal in diving at one of the Olympic games. Beth recalled, “Remember him [the teacher] bringing in the trampoline for us? Yes it was a great year.” A follow-up comment said, “I still remember bringing in the 45s (the vinyl kind) into the classroom, and the teacher would let us play them during recess. I still have Philadelphia Freedom [by Elton John] in my record collection. He’s still the all-time coolest teacher.” The former student went on to say,“Forget high school or college - this was the best year of school I ever had.” The comment inspired me to do a little sleuthing. I think it is important to let
people know what they mean to others - especially teachers. And this teacher had obviously struck a chord with his students. Within several minutes I had found the teacher on LinkedIn and told the group responding to my picture post that someone should contact him and share the thread of emails. Later on in the evening, Ken and the teacher became Facebook friends. Ken posted, “Welcome to your class of ‘75,” and the teacher responded how fun it was to see all the kids again. The teacher then posted the picture on his Facebook wall to share with his friends and family, some who didn’t know of his past role as a teacher. Some of the students also responded directly to him and let him personally know how much he meant to them. One told him, “Rick – you were part teacher/part big brother. You introduced yourself to me the day before the school year started with, ‘Hi, I’m Rick E.’ (Huh? Teachers have first names – and mustaches?)... I remember the record player in the classroom that you let us use during recess, a decision you probably regretted after too many hearings of ‘Convoy’and ‘Kung Fu Fighting.’But then one day you brought in one of your favorites from your vinyl collection and many of us heard John Lennon’s ‘Imagine’ for the first time. Know we were a tough bunch, but even when you got mad, it was a cool mad. Thanks for making it the most fun and memorable year ever.” Photographs and memories--take time to share them with those people who have been a part of your life.
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JARED HIGGINS TEAM Danville Sales
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658 Bridgewater Cir 5/3 2620 $1,049,000 $1,049,000 170 Camino Encanto 3/2 1400 $949,950 $930,000 1722 Camino Ramon 4/2 1902 $649,000 $649,000 17 Cathy Lane 3/2 1451 $799,000 $790,000 118 Center Ct 4/2 2173 $799,000 $799,000 1608 N Clear Creek Pl 3/2 1633 $699,000 $695,000 485 Clipper Hill Rd 5/3 3382 $999,950 $965,000 796 Danville Blvd 4/2 3098 $1,199,999 $1,170,000 1160 Delta Way 3/2 1651 $855,000 $837,500 888 Dolphin Dr 5/3 2482 $1,145,000 $1,200,000 100 Franciscan Dr 4/2 2397 $849,000 $832,000 509 Garrigan Ct 5/3 3379 $1,090,000 $1,045,000 125 Gerald Dr 4/3 2415 $1,499,000 $1,400,000 1659 Green Valley Rd 4/3 2422 $889,000 $889,000 2002 Hill Meadow Pl 5/3 2749 $969,900 $959,000 237 Jasmine Way 5/3 2401 $1,050,000 $1,025,000 259 Joseph Lane 5/3 3059 $1,020,000 $1,020,000 1046 Lehigh Valley Cir 3/2 1650 $789,950 $775,000 123 Merano St 4/2 2653 $980,000 $980,000 1392 Monterosso St 6/5 3418 $1,149,950 $1,140,000 655 Paradise Valley Ct 3/2 1769 $700,000 $685,000 775 Park Hill Rd 4/2 1955 $799,000 $880,000 1994 Rancho Verde Cir 2/2 1650 $667,750 $657,750 964 Richard Lane 5/3 2946 $1,149,000 $1,185,000 10 Rima Ct 4/3 2948 $1,279,000 $1,312,500 869 Saint George Rd 4/3 2663 $899,000 $880,000 3862 Sheffield Cir 4/3 2738 $1,020,000 $1,050,000 18 Stirling Dr 4/3 2939 $950,000 $925,000 45 Sunset Ct 4/3 2568 $959,000 $969,000 135 Tenby Ter 4/3 2436 $739,000 $825,000 1138 Trowbridge Way 4/3 3349 $998,000 $998,000 113 Valle Vista Dr 4/2 2053 $860,000 $845,000 112 Vista Dr 4/2 2537 $860,000 $845,000 11 Winterwood Ct 3/2 1626 $788,000 $835,000 Single family homes sold in Danville per MLS 12/15/13 thru 1/24/14
$400 $664 $341 $544 $368 $426 $285 $378 $507 $483 $347 $309 $580 $367 $349 $427 $333 $470 $369 $334 $387 $450 $399 $402 $445 $330 $383 $315 $377 $339 $298 $412 $416 $514
Free Tax Preparation
Free tax preparation for the 2014 tax season is available starting February 2014 from AARP’s Tax-Aide and United Way’s Earn It, Keep It, Save It (EKS) programs. All tax preparers are trained and certified by the IRS. While both programs serve taxpayers of any age, Tax-Aide does not have an income limit in whom they can serve, but EKS can only serve individuals whose incomes do not exceed $50,000. Beginning January 6, for information or to make an appointment for the Tax-Aide sites serving the San Ramon and Danville areas, please call (925) 973-3250 for the San Ramon Senior Center site or (925) 480-7202 for the St. Isidore Ministry Center in Danville site. For general information and other site locations, call (925) 7263199. For information on EKS sites, call 2-1-1 or visit www.earnitkeepitsaveit.org. To complete your tax return, Tax-Aide will need you to bring to the appointment your • Social Security Card or ITIN letter for all individuals to be listed on the return • Photo ID for yourself and spouse • Copies of all W-2s • 1098s and 1099s • Other income and deductions • Your 2012 Tax Return
San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club
San Ramon Valley Newcomers Club will hold its monthly luncheon on Thursday, February 20th at Giuseppes Pasta and Grill in San Ramon. For further information or reservations, call Dee Bradshaw at (925) 837-9600.
Ruth Bancroft Garden’s Lover’s Day Event
The Ruth Bancroft Garden’s annual Lover’s Day event will be held Saturday, February 8th from 10AM - 3PM. Docent-led tours will be held at 11:30AM and 1PM and a members only tour at 10AM. The Garden has an unparalleled collection of aloes, including hybrids not found anywhere else in the world. These winter bloomers put on a stunning show with colorful, dramatic flower stalks. During Lovers’ Day, visitors can experience the Garden’s dramatic aloe collection like at no other time of the year. There will be two docent-led tours offered, highlighting the most spectacular blooms and describing the plants’ history and native habitats. Self-guided tours of the featured aloes will be available all day. Regular admission rates apply. The Ruth Bancroft Garden is located at 1552 Bancroft Road in Walnut Creek.
Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 3
Danville’s Real Estate Danville Today News ~ August 2013 - Page 3 Expert The Market is HOT! Inventory is Low. It’s a Great Time to SELL! Put the power of a top producing real estate team and the East Bay’s #1 real estate firm to work for you
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Page 4 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Host Families Sought for Visiting French Students
For the ninth consecutive year, students from a large high school in the South of France are coming to Danville. Donate Your Car 800-YES-SVDP (800-937-7837) 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 • FREE same day pickup in the evenings and one weekend. • Maximum Tax Deduction The visit is an ideal opportunity to experience another culture and hopefully consider visiting France in return. • We do DMV paperwork Anyone interested in hosting a student (or students!) is welcome to participate. • Running or not, no restrictions For more information or to find out about past year’s programs, please contact Martine Causse (teacher in charge • 100% helps your community of the group), at caussefly@wanadoo.fr or dachary.martine@orange.fr. Serving the poor since 1860 There are many happy local host families ready to discuss any questions with you (including www.yes-svdp.org ST. VINCENT DE PAUL SOCIETY the editor of this paper!). The local contact is Danville parent Kevin Dimler, who can be reached at kevindimler@gmail.com or 925-718-5052.
Camp and School Fair
Danville Rotary Clubs
The Danville Rotary Club meets every Monday at noon at Faz restaurant in Danville. For information, contact Jim Crocker at jimcrocker@ pacbell.net or by phone at 925-577-6159. If you are interested in visiting the Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary Club, contact Jim Coleman at coleman_jd@pacbell.net. Meetings are held on Tuesdays at 7AM at Crow Canyon Country Club.
Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley
The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month at Faz Restaurant in downtown Danville. The Club’s sign-in and social time begins at 11:30AM. The meeting starts promptly at noon and ends promptly at 1PM. The one-hour program features guest speakers and a business networking speaker. Guests are welcome. Price is $16 for members and first time guests and $20 for returning guests. For more information, call Karen Stepper at (925) 275-2312, email coachstepper@yahoo.com, or visit www.srvexchangeclub.org.
Danville Lions Club
The Danville Lions Club invites you to join us for dinner and to learn more about how our club serves the community. Meetings are held at the Brass Door, 2154 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon on the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of each month at 7PM. For more information, call Dr. Brent Waterman at (925) 275-1990.
Come to a free event with booths showcasing camps, schools, preschool, daycare, sports, martial arts, gymnastics, enrichment, performing arts, scouts and family vacations. There will be activities and exhibitions. • Tri-Valley Camp & School Fair – Saturday, February 22, 11AM– 2PM 4575 Rosewood Dr. by Walmart & Sport Chalet in Pleasanton www.TriValleyCampFair.com • Contra Costa Camp & School Fair – Sunday, February 23, 11AM – 2PM Acalanes High School, 1200 Pleasant Hill Rd. in Lafayette www.ContraCostaCampFair.com
Group Helps People Cope with Death of Pets
When you lose your pet, you often feel like a part of you is lost. The death of your beloved animal companion is one of the most difficult losses you may ever feel. This loss is sometimes made more painful by society’s seeming lack of support for pet grief. Hospice of the East Bay and the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation is offering a support group where participants can share memories and feelings and talk to others who truly understand and care. Meetings will be held the first Tuesday of each month from noon - 1:30PM at the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. For further information and/or to register, please call Bereavement Services at Hospice of the East Bay (925) 887-5681. Pre-registration is required. Hospice of the East Bay Bereavement Services are provided free of charge to all community members in need. However, donations are greatly appreciated.
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Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 5
Delta Nu Psi
Please come by CVS in Alamo and Lunardi’s in Danville, and grab our shopping list and shop for our Afghanistan servicemen. With your help we just mailed our 1,147th box of “gourmet junk food” shipped to the Troops. Your help is needed at CVS in Alamo on February 7th and February 14th at Lunardi’s in Danville from 11am-2pm each day. Please come by, grab our shopping list and shop for our servicemen. They appreciate all that you do. For more information visit deltanupsi.org.
Veterans of Foreign Wars
The next regularly scheduled meeting of the Veterans of Foreign Wars of the United States (VFW) will be held on Wednesday, February 19th. The VFW Post 75 of San Ramon Valley meets every third Wednesday of the month at the Veterans Memorial Building, located at 400 Hartz Avenue in Danville. The building is located on the corner of East Prospect Avenue and Hartz Avenue. Doors open at 7PM, and the meeting begins at 7:30PM. For more information, contact Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925-362-9806. Find out more about the VFW and our Post on the internet at www.vfwpost75.org.
Sweet Savings for Valentine’s Day From the Kitchen at Alamo Hardware
San Ramon Valley Republican Women Federated
Proudly Presents Linda Turnbull Discussing “The Secret World of our Local Teenagers”
As founder and executive director of Teen Esteem, Linda has created a dynamic and successful program for area schools which promotes a healthy lifestyle for youth, especially in the area of high risk adolescent behavior. Her desire is to bring a message of truth to teenagers and to encourage them to think about the choices they are making so that they will consider what is best for them today, as well as in their future. Linda sits on numerous committees and consults to boards such as San Ramon Valley School District’s Community Resource Network, San Ramon Valley Community Against Substance Abuse, and the National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse. Please come, get educated, and find out what kids wish adults knew about their world! The luncheon will be held at the Crow Canyon Country Club, located at 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville, on Tuesday, February 25th. Social time begins at 11:30am and lunch is at noon. The cost is $25. For reservations, call Mary at 925837-5465 or e-mail srvrwf.lunch@gmail.com. Reservations are due by Friday, February 21st. To assure yourself a place at the table, make your reservation early!
Upcoming Event - Save the Date!
Dinner with Tim Donnelly, candidate for governor, will be held Tuesday, March 25th at 6:30pm at Crow Canyon Country Club. For more information about either program or the SRVRWF organization, visit www.srvrwf.org.
Hospice of the East Bay Estate Sale Service
After the death of a loved one, dealing with the entire contents of a home and a life time of possessions can be overwhelming. Hospice of the East Bay (HEB) Estate Sales, formally known as Diablo Appraisal and Estate Sales, is an estate sale and liquidation service that manages and coordinates your entire estate and provides you with a tax benefit by sharing the profits from the sale with HEB. We provide caring and trained professionals that can help you handle the entire process making the seemingly impossible, attainable. We will assess each item’s value, advertise the sale through multiple channels, organize and display your estate items, provide security before, during, and after the sale, run the estate sale smoothly and professionally, take unsold items to HEB thrift stores, and provide with a tax deductible receipt for those items, clear out the house at the end of the sale, and leave the house empty and ready for cleaning. Everything will be handled for you, and best of all you won’t even need to be present! Families are provided with a guaranteed honest, efficient, and reliable service. HEB Estate Sales was established in 2001 for families requesting help selling the contents of their homes. Funds generated from the sale help benefit the patients and families in the care of HEB. Please call Patricia Wright at (925) 887-5678 or email patriciaw@hospiceeastbay.org for more information.
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Blackhawk Republican Women
Blackhawk Republican Women present John Yoo, Professor of Law, U.C. Berkeley, Visiting Scholar, American Enterprise Institute, recipient, Paul M. Bator Award for Excellence in Legal Scholarship and Teaching from the Federalist Society for Law and Public Policy, speaking on “The Obama Presidency's Threat to Liberty” on Wednesday, March 12th at the Blackhawk Country Club. Social hour and hors d’oeuvres with no-host bar begins at 5:30pm and the speaker at 6PM. The cost is $25. John was the subject of media controversy and protests on campus over his service as Deputy Assistant Attorney General in the Office of Legal Counsel of the U.S. Dept. of Justice while working on national security and terrorism after the September 11th attacks. He also served as general counsel of the Senate Judiciary Committee and law clerk to Justice Clarence Thomas. John is the author of over 75 published scholarly articles and half a dozen books on foreign affairs, national security, and constitutional law. He will tell us about his new book being published in April, Point of Attack: Preventive War, International Law, and Global Welfare! Please make reservations or cancellations by noon on Monday, March 10th by contacting Marianne Lyons, 856 Turrini Dr., Danville, 94526, rlyons1009@ sbcglobal.net, or 925-820-6452.
Meals on Wheels
Seniors in your community need your support! Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services has been supporting seniors in YOUR neighborhood since 1968. Two of our programs, Meals on Wheels and Friendly Visitors, rely on the support of volunteers, and we need your help now more than ever. Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers deliver meals to local homebound seniors through regular two hour shifts once per week or as substitute drivers. Friendly Visitors volunteers provide weekly one-hour companionship visits to isolated seniors. To volunteer for either program, please call (925)937-8311.
Page 6 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Host Families Sought for Visiting French Students
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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. There are many happy local host families ready to discuss any questions with you. The local contact is Danville parent Kevin Dimler, who can be reached at kevindimler@gmail.com or 925-718-5052.
Student Crowned National Miss American Jr. Teen Achieve
Eighth grade Stone Valley Middle School student and Danville resident Anabelle Wilkinson was recently crowned the winner of the National Miss American Jr. Teen Achieve. Anabelle won the title and crown based on her community service and achievements.
“Run For The Roses” “Run “Run For For The The Roses” Roses” “Run For The Roses”
Place your ad here! For more information call us at 925.405.6397 or visit our website: www.yourmonthlypaper.com Cinema Classique By Peggy Horn
Diva
This month’s movie review is based on a French film entitled Diva. I saw it when it first came out in 1981, and it was advertised as a ‘new wave thriller.’ Whether or not I knew what that meant then, I do not remember, I certainly don’t recall what it means now… but I love this movie! It has an intriguing plot, romance, beautiful music, beautiful people, drama, and suspense all rolled into a single movie filmed in Paris with English subtitles. The movie stars Frederic Andrei as Jules, a young and humble postman who delivers the mail by moped and happens to be a huge opera fan. He favors one opera star in particular, an American named Cynthia Hawkins played by Wilhelmina Wiggins Fernandez. Ms. Hawkins is a diva, a word that originally meant a celebrated female opera singer, and since opera stars have been seen as difficult and AAKentucky KentuckyDerby DerbyGala Gala temperamental, the term diva often encompasses these traits as well. A Kentucky Derby Gala Ms. Hawkins’s claim to diva status is generated by her refusal to be benefitting benefitting recorded. Nevertheless, our hero, the postman, manages to record one benefitting of her performances as a tear glistens in the corner of his eye. It is a flawless recording and one that is witnessed by two men sitting behind Date: March 22, 2014 him during the performance.Although Jules made the recording exclusively for his own enjoyment, it has tremendous monetary value, ime: 6:00 PM—10:00 PM and immediately there are characters that seek to force him to share Date: Date:March March22, 22,2014 2014 the recording with them – whether he wants to or not. ocation: Round Hill Country Club, Alamo Date: March 22, 2014 Jules is also involved in a subplot that involves him in extreme Time: Time:6:00 6:00PM—10:00 PM—10:00PM PM ickets: $100.00 per person, reservation required. danger. Nadia, a prostitute claiming to be part of a crime ring Time: 6:00Round PM—10:00 Location: Country Location: RoundHill HillPM CountryClub, Club,Alamo Alamo in which women are traded for drugs, has made a tape exposing ttire: Location: Dress in your Derby and Club, don your finest hat. Prize will be given for best hat! the principal parties responsible.Unbeknownst to Jules, Nadia Round Hill best, Country Alamo Tickets: Tickets:$100.00 $100.00per perperson, person,reservation reservationrequired. required. has placed the tape in Jules’s mail pouch just before she is killed. Tickets: $100.00 per person, reservation required. Consequently, Jules is pursued thereafter by some very evil forces, Attire: Attire:Dress Dressininyour yourDerby Derbybest, best,and anddon donyour yourfinest finesthat. hat. Prize Prizewill willbebegiven givenfor forbest besthat! hat! but thanks to his extremely clever friends, he is able to survive. Attire: Dress your Derby best,and and don your finest Prize will be given for best hat! For ininformation tickets visit hat. www.xenophontrc.org This is a fun, quirky movie that has the added benefit of romance, Contact: Mari Parino - mparino@xenophontrc.org Office: 925-377-0871 making for superb entertainment. For Forinformation informationand andtickets ticketsvisit visitwww.xenophontrc.org www.xenophontrc.org For Mari information and tickets visit www.xenophontrc.org Contact: Parino Office: Contact:Mari Parino- -mparino@xenophontrc.org mparino@xenophontrc.org Office:925-377-0871 925-377-0871
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Danville Rotary 12th Annual Danville Crab Feed
The non-profit Danville Rotary Foundation will hold their 12th Annual Crab Feed on Saturday, March 8th. Doors open at 5:30pm and dinner begins at 7pm. The Feed will be held at The Big Gym at St. Isidore, 440 La Gonda Way, Danville. Enjoy a fresh crab dinner, live music, exciting auction items and raffle prizes. Proceeds benefit local youth and community programs, and the Veteran’s Memorial building. The cost is $50 per person. Please register for the event at www.danvillecrabfeed.org.
Celebrate Shakespeare on the Screen
Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 7
All you need is LOVE...
AND PINOT’S PALETTE CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY WITH YOUR SPECIAL SOMEONE AT PINOT’S PALETTE
Pinot’s Palette will feature special Valentine’s themed paintings all month long! Looking for the perfect date night for your Valentine? Look no further! We’ve got you covered. Our Valentine’s weekend classes will have special date paintings, festivities, and more! Just bring your date, open your favorite bottle of bubbly and enjoy an unforgettable Valentine’s night out at Pinot’s Palette.
The Town of Danville is pleased to announce the introduction of a double feature film series which focuses on specific themes. The inaugural films of the series are none other than pinotspalette.com/valentines-date the Bard himself. Come to the Village Theatre on March 1st and watch two iconic films that showcase the diversity and depth of the stories and life of William Shakespeare. The series will begin with the 1961 classic, West Side Story. This film is a musical adaptation of Romeo and Juliet set in New York City, where rival street gangs (the Jets and the Sharks) battle for territory and respect. Palette Viewers will then be transported to 16th century London during the screening of Shakespeare Pinot's DANVILLE (925) 743-9900 in Love. Young playwright William Shakespeare struggles with his latest work, Romeo and 410 Sycamore Valley Rd W pinotspalette.com/danville Danville, CA, 94526 Ethel, the Pirate’s Daughter. A young, wealthy Viola, who dreams of becoming an actress, successfully auditions for the part of Romeo. Soon, she and William are caught in a forbidden romance that provides rich inspiration for his play. Peter and the Wolf with the Fratello Marionettes These films may have some mature themes and language; parental guidance at Diablo Symphony Concert is recommended. The Diablo Symphony will continue its 51st Season of Musical StoThe first movie starts at 2pm and there will be a 15 minute intermission ries in 2014 with Prokofiev’s beloved musical story of Peter and the between movies. Tickets are now on sale for $5. For more information or to Wolf, which is the central part of this family friendly program. It will purchase tickets, visit www.villagetheatreshows.com or call (925) 314-3400. be brought to life by the Fratello Marionettes and narrated by the wonderful bass, Gregory Stapp. Gregory Stapp will also be performing a Museum Volunteers Needed Looking to get involved in your community? The Museum of the San Ramon selection of well-loved arias ranging from the “Magic Flute” to “South Valley needs your help. Volunteer positions are available in the following areas: Pacific.” In the the second part of the program, the group will perform a magical and visually evocative work by Italian composer, Ottorino • Greeters • Docents Respighi. The work describes in sound four different fountains in Rome, • Walking Tour Docents • Events Committee • Educational Programs (One Room School/Indian Life) from dawn to dusk. He uses the whole palette of the orchestra to paint Call Eve or Donna at 552-9693 or send an email to srvmuseum@ the magical colors of the light playing on the water, all infused with a sbcglobal.net for additional information. wonderful sense of feeling and emotion for the beauty of nature in a very special city. The concert will take place on Sunday, February 9th Books for the Homebound at 2 PM at the Lesher Center. If you or someone you know has a passion for reading and can no longer The Diablo Symphony Orchestra is a Central Contra Costa-based visit the library, find out more about the Danville Library’s Books for the community orchestra which is celebrating its 51st season and is in its Homebound program, a free and unique library service. Trained library volsecond season under the leadership of Music Director Matilda Hofman. unteers check out and deliver books to homebound individuals residing in The orchestra performs five concert sets a year as well as additional their own homes or residential care facilities. Contact Sandra Paiva, Volunteer concerts and events through its Outreach Program. Coordinator, at the Danville Library at (925) 837-4889 for more information.
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Page 8 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
We LOVE St. Isidore ! By Maria Ward, Principal
This month our Gospel Value “ LOVE” is so appropriate! We are asking our students to remember the Act of Love prayer. As we keep this prayer in our hearts and mind, we are humbled by this message. We just ended Catholic School Week on Friday, January 31st. Filled with activities, Open House and Science Fair, our students celebrate our faith and why they attend a Catholic school. This year our theme was, “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service.” We are now accepting applications for the upcoming school year. If you are interested in our school, please stop by our school office. Kindergarten testing occurs during February. We love seeing our future students come with such enthusiasm and love for Catholic School Education. Our 8th grade student, Griffin Hunt, was announced as the winner for the St. Isidore School National Geographic Geography Bee. He will now qualify for the next state level. Congratulations Griffin! The week of February 10th we will celebrate National Random Acts of Kindness Week (RAOK). During this week our focus is on recognizing acts of kindness to one another. Our teachers “catch” students being kind to one another, and then we recognize those students during our afternoon assemblies. As a faculty, we model these behaviors towards each other recognizing their positive effects. Our Student Leadership students bring treats to our neighboring schools as a RAOK. Our 4th grade students are making friendship bracelets for the entire school that week. Since Minions were so popular during the summer, they came up with the theme, “Be Respectable, Not Despicable.” The bracelets they are making will be yellow and blue, the color of the Minions. One of our St. Isidore traditions is celebrating “Grandparents Day.” This year, Thursday, February 13th is the day for our 3rd grade students and their grandparents or special guests to enjoy. They begin their day together with a mass especially for them, followed by a continental breakfast prepared by the 3rdgrade parents. Our teachers and our technology staff worked hard on a special keepsake our students made for their special guest. On Wednesday, February 19th at 7pm please come and enjoy an evening with “The Fonz,” Henry Winkler, from the popular TV series Happy Days! He has written several much-loved children’s books - the Hank Zipzer and the Ghost Buddy series. We are so blessed to have this dynamic speaker back in Danville at St. Isidore’s for this not-to-be-missed event. He will introduce a brand new fun series for Grades K-3. The cost is $15.00 per person. Advanced tickets are available by calling Rakestraw Books at 925-837-7337 or e-mailing Lee Lewis at llewis@stisidore.org for more information. Tickets will also be available at the door as space allows. We look forward to seeing you there. Remember to do a RAOK this month.
Charlotte Wood Middle School By Christopher George, Principal
As we’ve started the new year, and are about to start second semester, we wanted to once again recognize, the hard work of our students, teachers, and staff. So far, this year has been one of our best, based on our achievement data, our discipline data and all other measures. We have many great projects in store for 2014, and even now, we are beginning to prepare for the 20142015 school year. To begin with, we are preparing for the Pilot SBAC testing which will begin in March of this year. We are preparing our students through practice in our Advisory program and through the acquisition of new technology, made possible through the generosity of our parent community. This will help us not only be completely prepared for new testing, but it will allow us to use our existing funds for long range planning. This week we were also able to host our second all-school assembly as part of our Advisory planning. This week’s assembly was on the meaning of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Thanks to those teachers and students who were able to help us put that on. We hope to have many more assemblies in the future which enable us to bring such meaningful content to our students. Lastly, we are looking forward to a great second semester. It is always a good time for us to make sure that we are reaching all of our students and meeting all of their needs. So please, if your student is not receiving what they need, please make sure we are in communication.
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SRV Christian Academy By Jan Brunkal, Principal
February begins our focus to next year. With reenrollment in process and our Kindergarten readiness meeting behind us, we look forward to the upcoming school year. We invite anyone who is interested in a Christian environment with excellent academics, either for their kindergartner or first through eighth grader, to please give us a call and set a time to tour our great school. So many exciting things are taking place this time of year. Our PTF did a wonderful job of appreciating our teachers in our annual Teacher Appreciation week. They spoiled all of us with flowers, gifts, lunches, and a breakfast prepared by our school board. Our school is blessed to have such generous, giving parents. PTF also sponsors our annual fundraiser. This year we will repeat the fun Crab Feed at the Veterans’ Hall. A great time of fellowship and outpouring of generosity by our parents makes for a memorable evening. This year a beautiful 2014 red Camaro has been donated for our auction and one very fortunate person will be able to drive off in this beautiful new automobile. Our 8th graders are getting ready for our annual Washington DC trip. This has traditionally been a highlight of our students’ junior high experience, and this year will be no exception. Pam Winaker, our junior high social studies teacher, does an outstanding job of preparing her students for this once-in-a-lifetime trip. All the information regarding our founding fathers and how our government operates comes alive as they tour our nation’s capital. Their trip ends with a visit to New York City and Ground Zero. This emotional experience helps our students to never forget what took place on September 11, 2001. Our 3rd graders also make history come alive as they pay tribute to our founding fathers and other great Americans. Students begin by researching and reading a biography of their selected American. Students then start the process by writing a first person speech and then memorizing their speech which culminates in the full costume presentation before their families and classmates. Every year I am so amazed at the wonderful job these students do. They are prepared, poised, and confident as they present and share the impact these courageous Americans had on our nation. Not only is this a great accomplishment for our 3rd graders, but it is a wonderful lesson in courage, just like the famous Americans they are portraying.
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
Mary Academia is our winner!
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Stone Valley Middle School
By Shaun K. McElroy, Principal Common Core Byproducts
Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 9
11 Critical Home Inspection Traps to be Aware of Weeks Before Listing Your Home for Sale Danville - According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale. A new report has been prepared which identifies the 11 most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale. Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, there are a number of things that can fall short of requirements during a home inspection. If not identified and dealt with, any of these 11 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. That's why it's critical that you read this report before you list your home. If you wait until the building inspector flags these issues for you, you will almost certainly experience costly delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers
away altogether. In most cases, you can make a reasonable pre-inspection yourself if you know what you're looking for, and knowing what you're looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and unmanageable ones. To help home sellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report entitled "11Things You Need to Know to Pass Your Home Inspection" has been compiled which explains the issues involved. To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report, call toll-free 1-866-265-1682 and enter 1003. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to learn how to ensure a home inspection doesn't cost you the sale of your home.
The introduction and implementation of the new Common Core State Standards (CCSS) has led to a restructuring of the traditional teacher centered classroom to a student-centered classroom. We are still using standards to guide the content by subject area, however there are standards that cut across all disciplines like speaking and listening, reading and writing. This multidisciplinary approach to education creates a system-wide focus where the skill requirement is the same in every classroom. Listening and speaking standards have provided our students with essential communication skills necessary to work in groups and solve problems and create a deeper understanding of complex material. These are essential skills that prepare our children to be college and career ready. At this mid-point in the school year, our administrative team has made over 400 classroom visits. Our purpose is to coach/advise teachers’ classroom practices and to catalogue This report is courtesy of J. Rockcliff Realtors #01763819. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2013 the CCSS implementation process. Beyond acquiring the skill sets mentioned above we have noticed a high level of student San Ramon Valley High engagement. What we noticed routinely in classrooms is students’ body language. Students are leaning forward, making eye contact, responding with questions versus providing answers, School rotating leadership roles from teacher to student, guiding discussions, presenting group outBy Ruth Steele, Principal comes, all of which are workplace skills. As unbelievable as it sounds, discipline problems What is it that Defines a have dropped to very low levels, which is almost unheard of in middle school. Community? Although we are only 18 months into the CCSS implementation process, we are seeThis is a hard question to answer, but it ing great benefits of this nationwide movement. is quite clear to me that there is something Want to learn more about Common Core? SRVUSD Common Core resources are very special about the community that has available at https://sites.google.com/a/srvusd.net/common-core. supported San Ramon Valley High School Measure D Update for the last century. There is something Measure D is a facilities bond that was passed by voters in the November 2012 election. Stone Valley Middle Schools modernization project is a high priority construction uniquely powerful about the approach that students, parents, teachers, and community members bring forth when everyone is focused project. The construction is scheduled to begin in July 2015. The architectural services contract will be brought to the Board for approval in the on providing our children with the best possible resources that our near future. Design and drawings would need to start no later than this May 2014. Once efforts can harness. For example, our PTSA has just awarded over an architect is selected, Facilities staff and the Facilities Oversight and Advisory Com- $13,000 worth of teacher grants to teachers across different curricumittee’s* Design Sub-Committee will begin its work to study options, costs, schedules, lum areas, and our baseball program is committing almost $50,000 etc. As the project options and rough design elements begin to come into focus, the site/ towards facility improvements in partnership with the district office. staff/community team will become involved and help bring the design standards and Our pool is now complete, following an approach that involved fund specifications to completion…then the architects can really begin their work so we can raising on the part of both parent groups and the school district, and we are moving forward with Common Core, utilizing a spending get the drawings to the State for approval. *The role of the FOAC can be found on the SRVUSD homepage at www.srvusd.net/fac. plan for Common Core money from the state that involved all comLocal members of the FOAC are Alamo residents Steve Mick – Chair and Margie munity stakeholders. In February, the district will be running parent workshops to Hart - Vice Chair. Assistant Superintendent, Facilities Gary Black is in charge of all explain how the LCAP (Local Control Accountability Plan) has projects under Measure D (gblack@srvusd.net). been developed in order to determine how money from the new SRVUSD Hosting Community Forums for new Funding Plan Join us in setting our district’s goals for next year and beyond. Please participate in LCFF (Local Control Funding Formula) will be spent within SRone of our four upcoming Community Forums related to the new Local Control and VUSD. The basis of the LCAP is feedback from forums involving parents, students, staff, and community stakeholders. All of these Accountability Plan (LCAP): groups have been instrumental in determining the direction for • Tuesday, February 4 - California High (Performing Arts Center) the future of SRVUSD. • Thursday, February 6 - San Ramon Valley High Commons) But in closing, the true measure of a community must be the • Thursday, February 13 - Monte Vista High (Performing Arts Center) care and concern shown when our families go through times of • Thursday, February 27 - Dougherty Valley High (Commons) loss. Over this last month, one of our teachers has lost a husband *All forums begin at 6:30PM and refreshments and childcare will be provided! and father, and one of our senior students is battling cancer (See the At the forums, you will: • Learn about this new State education funding system and how it stands to benefit class of 2014 link on our website www.srvhs.net). The outpouring of support and kindness has been overwhelming in both instances. our schools, students and community; The SRVHS community is especially strong during times of need, • Provide us with valuable input into what SRVUSD’s plan should look like, and; and this seems to be the true measure of community. Thank you • Help us improve student achievement and engagement at your school! to everyone that works so tirelessly to support SRVHS. For questions or comments, email lcap@srvusd.net.
Page 10 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
The Hallmark Holiday
By Devyn Holliday, San Ramon Valley High School, senior
February is known for many things: the shortest month, leap year, and Valentines Day. If you’re a girl, Valentines Day is full of three things: flowers, chocolate, and disappointment. If you’re a boy, Valentine’s Day is full of one thing only: confusion. If you’re fortunate not to be a teenager, maybe the mystique of this overblown pink and red festivity has lost its touch on you, but I’m sure you remember it. February 14th arrives, and suddenly the world looks at you weird if you’re not wearing some combination of red and pink. All of a sudden, if you didn’t buy chocolates for a “special someone” you’re a bad person. The hallways at school are filled with lackluster cut-outs of pink and red paper hearts. But, even though you’re well above the age of giving out Valentines in class, some teachers still feel the need to relate the day’s curriculum to provide a “deeper” meaning to this day. You sit silently in class and ponder what the teacher could possibly dig up to make this holiday relevant. Quite frankly, it’s not relevant; if you care about someone, you don’t need a holiday to tell you that, nor do you need to parade around with flowers to feel loved. For teenage girls, parading around with flowers and chocolate through the school hallways has become a symbol of status. Soft whispers float about the air: “Who are they from?” and “Wow, she’s so lucky!” The possessor of such gifts is fawned over by her closest friends as she recounts the “oh so perfect” moment that he gave them to her. Each friend adds their two cents about their hopes of receiving some gift later in the day. For most girls, their hope of getting some recognition from that boy with the nice smile (whom they barely have uttered a word to) is sadly met with disappointment. But I mean, really, how could you possibly expect flowers from someone you barely talk to just because it happens to be February 14th? I can assure you that eighty years ago Valentine’s Day was celebrated far less and by people who actually knew its meaning: the celebration of Saint Valentine, of course. But thanks to stores like Hallmark, Godiva, Victoria’s Secret, and Kay Jewelers, suddenly the day has become something much more. Before January has even had the chance to live out its final days, in rushes come the countless ads telling you to buy this and that for that special someone. Thanks to the constant inundation, everyone now expects a card, pretty flowers, and a box of chocolates, even when there is no special person. Girls spend the day hoping some random guy will admit some unexpected affection for her. Guys spend the day confused about why she’s giving him the cold shoulder all of a sudden. All this disappointment and confusion arises over when to expect a box of chocolates and when to give one. This February 14th, fear not the sea of red and pink and the mountains of chocolates, and don’t despair over flowers not received, for there are 364 other days to show your affection to the ones you love.
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Del Amigo High School By Joseph A. Ianora, Principal
Del Amigo, as with each of the other local high schools, has moved into the second semester. Unique to Del Amigo, because we are a “credit recovery” school, some of our students have returned to their “home” schools as they are now back on track for graduation. Nine students have completed the necessary 210 credits to graduate; those students are entering the workforce and/or attending one of our local community colleges to continue their education. Additionally, five students are concurrently enrolled with Del Amigo and a Community College, and three students are concurrently enrolled at Paris Beauty College. The end of January (and close of the semester) was filled with transition as we are now welcoming 12 new students to our site. Because our site is such a small community, compared to the larger high schools, any change has a dramatic affect. We welcome the change and embrace the challenges associated with it. We work very hard to help those who are transitioning in or out, or remaining because we value a safe and educational environment. Although change can be difficult, we have had much to celebrate this month. Here are a few of the many wonderful things that happened at Del Amigo: • Students toured the Bedford Gallery, Neon exhibit and created their own neon sculptures • We volunteered at the Alameda Food Bank – preparing bags for distribution • In Science, we designed planets using balloons, gave presentations, and oral reports • We started a Yoga class that meets during lunch • We will be sending 25 students to participate in a seminar for Junior Achievement Del Amigo students and staff are embarking on a very exciting venture…we are going to do a school wide book read! The book is titled Hole in my Life by Jack Gantos. We will be spending three days a week for the next 6-7 weeks in our Advisory Period dedicated to this book. This is the first ever schoolwide “book club” in our district, and we are very excited to challenge our students to make this a successful endeavor. Thank you for your continued support of Del Amigo!
Monte Vista High School By Janet Terranova, Principal
Second semester has begun. As most of our classes at Monte Vista are yearlong classes, most students schedules are not changed. It is interesting to see the differences in our students as they begin the second semester. Freshmen have settled in, they understand high school, and their confidence is growing. It is fun to see them develop into teenagers. It is also amazing to see how much they have grown – literally in just five months. Sophomores are in their stride. They are beginning to take on leadership roles in their classes, clubs, and activities. Sophomore year is also the year many of them get their drivers licenses, so we often see an increase in cars on campus. Juniors are in a whirlwind of activity. While every year is important, juniors have been told that this is the most important year academically, and most have made academics their focal point. However, juniors learn to multitask and they are able to juggle a schedule that includes extracurricular activities, community service, and sometimes a job in a week. They are probably the most sleep deprived grade; if you have a junior in your life, encourage moderation. Seniors who were so focused on the academics for 3½ years are now focused on the future. They are both anxious and excited about the future. Whether their plans for next year keep them close to home or halfway around the world, our seniors are beginning to realize that life will change. For eighteen years they have had the safety of their family, school, and community. Expectations were clear and there were many familiar people to help them meet those expectations. While they will always have that support they are realizing that the safety net is stretching, and they will be responsible for reaching out. This is a little scary for them, but we know they are well prepared. As usual we have many activities scheduled for the month of February – winter sports, drama productions, and club projects. During the week of February 3rd we will be participating in a No Name Calling Awareness week sponsored by the San Ramon Council of PTA, and the week of February 10th is Wheelchair Awareness Week sponsored by the Behring Wheelchair Foundation. If you want to know more about Monte Vista and our activities, please visit our website www.mvhs.schoolloop.com.
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Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 11
Tax Talk with Bob
Tax Updates and IRS Audits and Reviews By Bob Shalon, IRS Enrolled Agent, H&R Block
It is time to think about your tax return for 2013. Here are the highlights that you need to know which will affect your return.
High Income Taxpayers
The highest tax bracket this year is 39.6%. This effects married couples with taxable income above $450,000 and single taxpayers above $400,000. A higher Medicare rate kicks in if your income is above $250,000 for married couples and $200,000 if you are single. Higher income phase-outs are also affected this year.
Medical Expenses
All qualified medical expenses are deductible; this includes premiums, copays, and medications as well as any assisted living expenses. Congress says that although everyone has some medical expenses, only those taxpayers with higher than normal expenses can take this deduction. Previously these were taxpayers whose medical expenses exceeded 7.5% of their adjusted gross income (AGI). This year that amount is 10% of AGI. Taxpayers above age 65 remain at the old rate for two more years.
Home Office Deduction
If you use a space in your home regularly and EXCLUSIVELY for your work AND your employer does not provide you with a space to work, then you may take this deduction. If your employer allows you to work from home so you do not have to fight traffic, that does not qualify. This is not new. What is new is a more simple way to compute the deduction.
Education
Good news, all the benefits from last year still apply!
H&R Block Advertising
The H&R Block theme this year is targeted at taxpayers who prepared their own returns. I spent the summer reviewing IRS letters sent to taxpayers. In addition to answering their specific issues addressed Bob Shalon, EA in the letters, I Master Tax Advisor • Enrolled Agent found there were many taxpayers 925.820.9570 718 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Danville who either did not Sycamore Square (next to Lucky’s) know about debob.shalon@tax.hrblock.com ductions or chose the wrong ones and cheated themselves. Just because you have never gotten a notice doesn’t mean you got every benefit the tax code offers, thus the reason behind our ads this year. It is totally true! Please call me at any time at 925-820-9570, email bob.shalon@tax. hrblock.com, or stop by my office located at 718 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville with any questions. Advertorial
Stormy Outside, Warm Inside By Monica Chappell
I’ve got a list of favorite reds to weather any storm --and hopefully we will have one some day soon! I did some legwork, err…umm…some glasswork and have three great reds to wash away the winter blues.
Italian Reds
If you’ve got a big budget, go big with a big Italian red like a Barolo which is made 100% from nebbiolo grapes. Another option would be to try a Barbaresco, which is also 100% nebbiolo as Barolo but much less expensive. Snuggle up to the fire, pour a glass of one of these intensely flavored reds and cook up some risotto. The intensity of the wine will complement the richness of this classic northern Italian dish.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Nothing says weather chaser better than a rich cabernet. The cabernet grape is a small berry with a thick skin, giving it a high solid to juice ratio and creating a wine high in color, tannin, and extract. Some typical cabernet descriptors include cassis, cedar, and currant. Big and balanced, cabernet is the perfect stormy match for a fatty steak or something gamey.
Zinfandel
If the rations are low, Zinfandel is bold enough to keep you warm all on its own. It is known as the quintessential California grape. Find some California cheese and enjoy! Monica Chappell is a wine writer and educator. To view a list of wine appreciation classes visit www.wineappreciation101.blogspot.com.
better connected to the services available to us here in Contra Costa County, District 2. One of the benefits of smartphone is that it keeps us safe, informed, and Your Smartphone bringstechnology Local Government Services to You onfor time. Below are some my favorite apps and technology that I use to stay By County Supervisor Candace Andersen See health inspection even results local restaurants on ofyour iPhone or better connected to the services available us here in Contra Costa County, District 2. Android using the California Food Inspector app from ContratoCosta Health Services (CCHS). The HealthofDepartment thisis that it keeps us safe, informed, and One of County the benefits smartphonedeveloped technology SeeBelow health results local and restaurants on that yourI use iPhone or free app which allows users inspection results formy thefavorite pastfor fiveapps even to onsearch time. areinspection some of technology to stay years for 4,200 food facilities in Contra County. 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Inspector app from Contra Costa each evening. restaurants to coffeeServices shops to(CCHS). ice cream vendors. inspection histories show what, Health The CountyThe Health Department developed this if any, violations these foodallows facilities have been required to correct. With free app which users to search inspection results for thethis pastapp, five Register your cell phoneroutine with theinspections Contra Costa County CWS Community are facilities being uploaded weekly. closure Itinformation will be updated years for 4,200 food in Contra CostaAny County. includes everything from Warning System so you can be informed about emergencies and disasters each evening. restaurants to coffee shops to ice cream vendors. The inspection histories show what, that could impact your neighborhood such as wildfires, gas line ruptures, any,Contra violations foodCommunity facilities have been required to correct. 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Go to Twitter and follow @CoCoCWS, and set your tooffice of about situations in the impact County your that pose an imminent to life or gas health. their receive a text alert. that could neighborhood suchthreat as wildfires, lineVisit ruptures, website at www.cococws.us enroll yourContra cell phone number in the service. If you are earthquakes or and floods. The Costa County Community Warning social savvy, you to canis receive alerts your Twitter feedSheriff and get textissues messages The PulsePoint mobile app,media firstSystem introduced communities byinthe San (CWS) operated by office of the and alerts County on Connection (officially known as the Central Contra your phone. Gothe to Twitter and follow andto set cell phone to Ramon Valley Fire, allows CPR-trained individuals to be notified if about situations County that pose an@CoCoCWS, imminent threat life your or health. Visit their Costa Transit Authority, in “CCCTA”) offers Bus Tracker, a receive a text alert. someone nearby is potentially in need of CPR. The app also pinpoints thephone number in the service. If you are at www.cococws.us and enroll cell system website that provides real time information aboutyour where the location of all publicly social available AEDs in the area. The notificationsinare media savvy, canbus receive your Twitter feed and get text messages bus is and when it will arriveyou at the stop.alerts Riders can made simultaneously with the dispatch of local paramedics so that mobile citizens app, can begin The PulsePoint first introducedand to set communities by Santo your phone. Go to times Twitter follow @CoCoCWS, your cell phone view theonupcoming bus arrival by and selecting any bus CPR and deploy an AED whileConnection the professional toallows the scene. If County (officiallyrescuers known asare thetraveling Central Ramon Valley Fire,Contra CPR-trained individuals to be notified if receive a text alert. stop in the system. Visit www.cccta.org, and then click the Bus Tracker button to get Authority, “CCCTA”) Bus Tracker, you're not yet trained inCosta CPR,Transit or need a refresher, nowoffers isnearby the perfect timea to take a of CPR. The app also pinpoints the someone is potentially in need started or to set up a personalized accountreal for time arrival alerts. Also download the Transit thattechnique provides information about where the class. With Hands-Only system CPR the is easier than ever to publicly learn andavailable perform. AEDs To location of all in the area. The notifications The PulsePoint mobile app, first introduced to communities by are San Stop: CCCTA App forbus your smartphone. This free app gives you quick and easy is www.cchealth.org/ems/cpr.php; and when it will arrive at the bus stop. can locate a class near you, visit orthe in Riders San Ramon Valley, made simultaneously with dispatch of local paramedics so that citizens can beginif access to bus arrival time for your favorite County Connection stops utilizing viewestimates the upcoming bus arrival times by selecting any allows bus Ramon Valley Fire, CPR-trained individuals to be notified visit www.firedepartment.org, outreach. Toandownload or learn more about rescuers are traveling to the scene. If Countycommunity Connection (officially known as thewhile Central Contra CPR and deploy AED stop the Tracker system. Visit www.cccta.org, and then click the Bus Tracker to professional get the inBus information. For assistance with Bus Tracker orbutton toisthe get information on of CPR. The app also pinpoints the someone nearby potentially in need the PulsePoint app visit www.pulsepoint.org/app. Please join friends andaneighbors Costa Transit Authority, “CCCTA”) offers Bus Tracker, you're not yet trained inyour CPR, orTransit need a refresher, now is the perfect time to take a started or to set up Customer a personalized account for call arrival alerts. Also download the bus routes from Service staff, (925) 676-7500. location ofCounty. allabout publicly AEDs in the area. The notifications are system that provides real time information where available the in increasing the cardiac arrest survival rate in Contra Costa Stop: CCCTA App for your smartphone. ThisWith free Hands-Only app gives youCPR quickthe and easy class. technique is easier than ever to learn and perform. To made simultaneously with the dispatch bus is and when it will arrive at the bus stop. Riders can of local paramedics so that citizens can begin access to bus arrival time estimates for your favorite County Connection stops utilizing locate aagencies, class near you, visit www.cchealth.org/ems/cpr.php; in San Ramon Valley, Several local public safety including Lafayette, use Nixle torescuers areortraveling view the upcoming bus arrival times by selecting any bus CPR and the professional to the scene. If the Bus Tracker information. For assistance with Busdeploy Trackeran or AED to get while information on visit www.firedepartment.org, community outreach. download or learn more about stop in the system. Visit www.cccta.org, and then click Bus Tracker button to getcitizens connect via text, and email totrained effectively reach for Tonow you're not yetthe in CPR, ortheir need a refresher, is the perfect time to take a bus routes from Customer Service staff,web, call (925) 676-7500. started or to set up a personalized account for arrival alerts. Also download the Transit the PulsePoint app visit www.pulsepoint.org/app. Please join your friends and neighbors everything from community outreach to public relations to emergency class. With Hands-Only CPR the technique is easier than ever to learn and perform. To Stop: CCCTA App for yourSimply smartphone. This freemessage app youarrest quickzip andcode easyrate inagencies, increasing the gives cardiac survival in Contra Costa County. mitigation. send a text with your to 888777, Several local public safety including Lafayette, use Nixle to a class near you, visitstops www.cchealth.org/ems/cpr.php; or in San Ramon Valley, access to bus arrival time estimates for locate your favorite County Connection utilizing connect via text, web, and email to effectively reach their for from local and you will be instantly registered to receive text citizens messages visit with www.firedepartment.org, community the Bus Tracker information. For assistance Bus Tracker or to get information on outreach. To download or learn more about community outreach to public emergency public safetyeverything agenciesfrom in your area. If you 676-7500. want more relations control, to you can create a Nixle bus routes from Customer Service staff, call (925) PulsePoint app visit Please join your friends and neighbors mitigation. Simplyand send a the text message your zipwww.pulsepoint.org/app. code 888777, account at www.nixle.com tailor exactly whatwith information you to receive and how you in increasing the cardiac arrestfrom survival and you will be instantly registered to receive text messages local rate in Contra Costa County. want to receive it – via text message, mobile application, or use webNixle browser. Several local public safety email, agencies, including Lafayette, to
www.yourmonthlypaper.com Your Smartphone Brings Local Government Services to You By County Supervisor Candace Andersen
Page 12 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
One of the benefits of smartphone technology is that it keeps us safe, informed, and even on time. Below are some of my favorite apps and technology that I use to stay better connected to the services available to us here in Contra Costa County, District 2. See health inspection results for local restaurants on your iPhone or Android using the California Food Inspector app from Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS). The County Health Department developed this free app which allows users to search inspection results for the past five years for 4,200 food facilities in Contra Costa County. It includes everything from restaurants to coffee shops to ice cream vendors. The inspection histories show what, if any, violations these food facilities have been required to correct. With this app, routine inspections are being uploaded weekly. Any closure information will be updated each evening. Register your cell phone with the Contra Costa County CWS Community Warning System so you can be informed about emergencies and disasters that could impact your neighborhood, such as wildfires, gas line ruptures, earthquakes, or floods. The Contra Costa County Community Warning System (CWS) is operated by the office of the Sheriff and issues alerts about situations in the County that pose an imminent threat to life or health. Visit their website at www.cococws.us, and enroll your cell phone number in the service. If you are social media savvy, you can receive alerts in your Twitter feed and get text messages on your phone. Go to Twitter and follow @CoCoCWS, and set your cell phone to receive a text alert. The PulsePoint mobile app, first introduced to communities by San Ramon Valley Fire, allows CPR-trained individuals to be notified if someone nearby is potentially in need of CPR. The app also pinpoints the location of all publicly available AEDs in the area. The notifications are made simultaneously with the dispatch of local paramedics so that citizens can begin CPR and deploy an AED while the professional rescuers are traveling to the scene. If you’re not yet trained in CPR or need a refresher, now is the perfect time to take a class. With Hands-Only CPR the technique is easier than ever to learn and perform. To locate a class near you, visit www.cchealth.org/ems/cpr.php, or in San Ramon Valley, visit www.firedepartment.org, and click on Community Outreach. To download or learn more about the PulsePoint app, visit www.pulsepoint.org/app. Please join your friends and neighbors in increasing the cardiac arrest survival rate in Contra Costa County. County Connection (officially known as the Central Contra Costa Transit Authority, [CCCTA]) offers Bus Tracker, a system that provides real time information about where the bus is and when it will arrive at the bus stop. Riders can view the upcoming bus arrival times by selecting any bus stop in the system. Visit www.cccta.org, and then click the Bus Tracker button to get started or to set up a personalized account for arrival alerts. Also download the Transit Stop: CCCTA App for your smartphone. This free app gives you quick and easy access to bus arrival time estimates for your favorite County Connection stops utilizing the Bus Tracker information. For assistance with Bus Tracker or to get information on bus routes from Customer Service staff, call (925) 676-7500. Several local public safety agencies, including Lafayette, use Nixle to connect via text, web, and email to effectively reach their citizens for everything from community outreach to public relations to emergency mitigation. Simply send a text message with your zip code to 888777, and you will be instantly registered to receive text messages from local public safety agencies in your area. If you want more control, you can create a Nixle account at www.nixle.com and tailor public safety agencies in your area. If you want more control, can create awant Nixle to receive it – via text message, email, mobile application, or web browser. exactly what information you receive andyou how you connect via text, web, and email to effectively reach their citizens for account at www.nixle.com and tailor exactly what information you receive and how you everything from community outreach to public relations to emergency Danville Connect is a fast and convenient way of getting in touchway with the is a fast convenient of getting in touch with the Town of Danville. Request information or report a concern, all at the touch want to receive it – viaDanville text message,Connect email, mobile application, orand web browser. mitigation. Simply send a text information message withoryour zip acode to 888777, Town of Danville. Request report concern, all at the touch and you will be instantly registered to receive text messages from local ofaabutton buttonis afrom your mobile device. Danville Connect allows users to report an area of concern, add photos to the report, and even use their smartphone’s of your mobile device. Danville Connect allows Danville Connectfrom fast and convenient way of getting in touch with the users to public safety agencies in your area. If you want more control, you can create a Nixle Town of Danville. Request information report atoconcern, all at and the touch report an area of concern, addorphotos the report, even use theirreceived through the app are automatically directed to a specific individual for resolution. There is also internal GPS to pinpoint the exact location. Inquiries account at www.nixle.com and tailor exactly what information you receive and how you of smartphone’s a button from your mobileGPS device.to Danville Connect allows users to internal pinpoint the to receive it – via text message, email, application, or web exact browser.location. Inquiries awant Track Issue to get anmobile update on your Danville Connect also provides fast and easy access to not only the Town's official website, but also to the report anbutton area app of concern, add photos to the report, andasubmission. even use their received through the are automatically directed to specific individual for smartphone’s internal GPS to pinpoint the exact location. Inquiries Danville Today online newsletter andtoway the The mobile app can be found in the Apple App Store and Android Market by searching for “Danville Connect.” resolution. Danville There isConnect also a isTrack button getof Town an update on with yourthe submission. a fast Issue and convenient getting in Council. touch received through the app are automatically directed to a specific individual for Town of also Danville. Request information or report a concern, all at the Danville There Connect provides fast and easy access to not only thetouch Town's official resolution. is also a Track Issue button to get an update on your submission. I hope you find this technology useful. If my office can beTheof assistance to you on any County issues, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to serve you of also a button from your mobile device. Danville Connect allows users Council. to website, but the Danville Today the Town Danville Connect alsotoprovides fast and easy online access newsletter to not only and the Town's official report an area of concern, add photos to the report, and even use their and can reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us mobile appbe can in the Apple App Store and searchingor for 925-957-8860. website, but also tobe thefound Danville Today online newsletter and Android the TownMarket Council.byThe smartphone’s internal GPS to pinpoint the exact location. Inquiries mobile app Connect.” can be found in the Apple App Store and Android Market by searching for “Danville than 800 Mexican ranchos received through the app are automatically directed to a specific individual for Cattle on a Thousand Hills By Beverly Lane “Danville Connect.” resolution. There is also a Track Issue button to get an update on your submission. were granted throughout I hope findRamon this provides technology If my office be ofthe assistance tohills you on any over 200 years Theyou San Valley’s undulating gold and green reflect Danville Connect also fast useful. and easy access to can not only Town's official I hope you find this technology useful. If my office can be of assistance to you on any County issues, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to serve you and can be website, but also to the Danville Today online newsletter and the Town Council. The the state. In the San RaCounty issues, please don’t hesitate to contact We’re herefirst to serve you and Alta can be California, they brought of ranching history. When theus.Spanish settled reached SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us or 925.957.8860. mobile appatcan be found in the Apple App Store and Android Market by searching for reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us or 925.957.8860. mon Valley, Jose Maria “Danville Connect.” livestock with them and transformed the landscape. Amador’s Rancho San Inyou 1769 about 200useful. cattle moved from toBaja I hope find this technology If mywere office can be of assistance you onto anyAlta, California with the County issues, please don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re here to serve you and can be first Spanish invasion led by Gaspar de Portola and Father Junipero Serra. Juan Ramon covered over reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us or 925.957.8860. 20,000 acres of the San Bautista de Anza’s 1775-1776 epoch expedition from New Spain brought the initial colonists and about 1000 livestock -- 695 horses and mules and 355 cattle. Ramon, Dougherty, and Tassajara Valleys with a As the 21 California missions were established, each one was allotted 18 cattle large headquarters in Duband four swine in addition to horses, sheep, goats, and mules. Descended from animals brought to the Americas by the Spanish two hundred lin. This rancho, which years earlier, the cattle were primarily Longhorn and Corriente breeds. They flourished was formally granted to mightily on the region’s congenial landscape. Great herds of cattle and horses covered Amador in 1835, was Restored Mission San Jose in Fremont the California countryside, beginning the hide and tallow economy of the Hispanic era. stocked with at least 300 horses, 3,000 sheep, and 13,000 head of cattle. Mariano Castro and Bartolome Pacheco received the Rancho San Ramon Valle north of AmaThese grazing animals changed the environment, replacing the native perennial grasses and herbaceous flowering plants nurtured by the Indians to the annual dor in 1834, and it covered two leagues (about 8,000 acres) in today’s Danville and Mediterranean grasses we know today. Beginning with wild oats, these grasses Alamo. They came to the valley only for periodic round-ups and cattle slaughters. Cattle hides and tallow were the main trade items, and beef was the principal food. include annual foxtails, Italian ryegrass, rat-tail fescue, soft chess, cheatgrass, Amador’s 150 workers used the leather hides to produce harnesses, saddles, shoes, as well medusa-head, and goatgrass. “The seed stuck to the hides and wool of the livestock and from imported feed and ballast accompanying the new livestock in ships’ as manufacturing furniture. He had regular sales contracts for cattle hides (called “California banknotes”) and transported them by ox cart over today’s Dublin grade to the Bay. holds,” according to botanist David Amme. Hispanic Californians were experienced cattle raisers. Dry years were the only The San Ramon Valley was part of Mission San Jose’s land, which grazed cattle and sheep from Fremont north to Concord. In 1832 the Mission reported threat to production. Rodeos, or round-ups, were held twice yearly so that stock that they grazed 12,000 cattle, 13,000 sheep, and 13,000 horses. Mission San could be branded by each owner. Brands were registered and changed only with Jose was the most productive of all the northern California missions, in terms of permission of the governor. A juez de campo, or field judge, settled disputes over the ownership of animals at their rodeos. Indians recruited and agricultural production. William Heath Davis listed the largest land and cattle owners of California’s pastoral With no fences in place, the free-ranging cattle or, in Spanish vacas, evolved into fierce feral animals. Historian Robert Cleland wrote: “The breeding of cattle era and estimated that there were 1,220,000 head of cattle on the ranchos. Throughout being the chief occupation of the Californians…it determined their mode of life, Alta California, cattle and horses doubled their numbers roughly every two years. Before the Gold Rush, Alta California indeed had cattle on a thousand hills. the structure of their society, and the size of their ranchos.” Indian and Spanish Be sure to visit the exhibit at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railvaqueros tended the livestock and were famous for their riding and roping skills. road Ave. in Danville. It is called “Cowboys and Cattlemen, Ranching in the San They were the precursors of our American cowboy. After the Mexican Revolution and closure of the Spanish-led missions, more Ramon Valley.” For more information, see museumsrv.org.
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Spare the Air
By Debbie Weiss, Sustainable Danville Area
On Christmas Eve, I wanted a wood-burning fire in my living room fireplace. The Yule Log on TV just wasn’t going to cut it. But it was a winter “Spare the Air” day, so Bay Area residents were barred from burning wood or other solid fuels in their fireplaces. If I were found violating this regulation, I’d be fined $100 for a first time offense or required to take a wood smoke awareness class. A second violation holds a fine of $500, so the penalty for a crackling fire on a Spare the Air day is painful. Any wood burning fire adds to the local air pollution, releasing soot into the air. Much as I missed the holiday flames, I took satisfaction in knowing that I wouldn’t be contributing to the sore throats and lung irritation of folks who went outside, particularly those with vulnerable health due to respiratory ailments. I sighed and revved up Netflix with its streaming online fireplace. The website Sparetheair.org lists when there’s an alert in effect, and you can sign up to receive e-mail or text message warnings the day before the alert goes into effect. Other ways to check for an alert include calling (877) 4-NOBURN, visiting baaqmd.gov, or using Spare the Air phone apps. The Bay Area Quality Management District has called for 29 Winter Spare the Air Days this season. There are usually 15 to 20 winter Spare the Air days, so as of January 19th there have been more than usual. The District can issue a winter Spare the Air alert from November 1st through February 28th. Winter weather consisting of cold, still days with stagnant air traps wood smoke close to the ground, concentrating the air pollution from the smoke to unhealthy levels. Wood smoke is the largest source of winter particulate pollution. Particulate matter, generally soot, consists of microscopically small solid or liquid particles suspended in the air. On winter Spare the Air days, wood-burning fires are banned. The ban includes EPA-certified wood stoves, fireplace inserts, and pellet stoves. Though these devices burn more cleanly than regular fireplaces, they still emit fine particulate air pollution. Similarly, outside fires like bonfires and fires in outdoor fire pits, are banned as are fires using manufactured logs. So, my cache of Duraflame logs in the garage isn’t going to help when an alert is in effect.
Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 13
The Air Quality Index categorizes air pollution on a scale of zero to 500. The index is based on federal air quality standards for six major pollutants; ozone, carbon, monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, sulfur dioxide and two sizes of particulate matter, PM10 and PM2.5. PM10 refers to a particle less than or equal to 10 microns in size and PM 2.5 to those smaller or equal to 2.5 microns. Of the two sizes, the smaller, PM2.5, is the more serious health concern because the smaller particles can travel more deeply into people’s lungs than the larger ones. In the wintertime, wood smoke contributes about one-third of the overall particulate matter pollution. Motor vehicles also contribute a significant amount of air pollution. Spare the Air days are important because increased, trapped concentrations of pollution can impact people’s health. Breathing pollution can cause people to suffer from throat irritation, congestion, and chest pain. Air pollution can inflame the lining of the lungs, cause shortness of breath, trigger asthma, and aggravate conditions like bronchitis and emphysema. Long term exposure to ozone can reduce lung function. High levels of ozone are particularly harmful to young children, seniors, and those with respiratory or heart conditions. During a summer Spare the Air alert, the main way to help is to drive less. We can walk, bike, telecommute (if possible), carpool, link errands together, use public transit, and generally avoid driving unnecessarily. We shouldn’t use gas-powered gardening equipment like lawn mowers and leaf blowers. If we want to barbecue, we should use a gas grill instead of charcoal. We should also avoid using aerosol spray cans, like those containing paint or hair spray. And, as always, we can reduce our use of household energy. So “Spare the Air” spares the environment, helping to reduce air pollution when it’s needed the most and, in doing so, sparing our health, especially for those who are most vulnerable to poor air quality. On Christmas Eve, I revved up the TV fireplace, but wanting to enjoy more fires – even during Spare the Air days – I visited a local business and invested in ceramic logs that quickly turned my gas starter into a gas-burning fireplace. Sitting in front of the fire with friends, I relished the fact that we were sharing good wine and good times – and not PM2.5 particle matter. Share with us ways that you Spare the Air – visit us on Facebook or www. sustainabledanville.com, or email us at sustainabledanville@gmail.com.
Page 14 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Francis Ford Coppola Winery, Geyserville By Linda Summers Pirkle
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Francis Ford Coppola Winery; located in Geyserville, an hour and a half from the Bay Area; is home to movie memorabilia, a great store, bocce courts, a pool, and a fine restaurant. “Disneyland for adults” is how Ernie Zabalijauregui, guest services assistant, describes the winery. “People explore the place with big smiles on their faces. There is so much to see, and it’s a fun place.” My husband, no big fan of Disneyland, did, however, really enjoy our afternoon at Francis Ford Coppola Winery. Like many wineries, it is beautiful. The working winery is home to a rare collection of movie memorabilia including the Tucker car, used in the movie Tucker, The Man and his Dream,1988, two small ships used as props in Sofia Coppola’s 2006 film Marie Antoinette, award winning costumes from Bram Stoker’s Dracula, as well as the actual Oscars won by the director and producer Francis Ford Coppola. Photos and facts from behind the scenes of the filming of Apocalypse Now are especially interesting. Tucker car at Francis Ford Coppola Winery The extensive gift shop on site is full of unique items from all over the world. Mr. Coppola says he’s always searching for something “unusual and desirable.” According to Erin, visual merchandiser, the Coppolas hand-select many of the merchandise items available at the winery. They frequently send the merchandising team pictures and examples of unique products they find compelling and intriguing while on their travels. Among the items you will find are Francis’s favorite films, kid-friendly toys such as “Tim,” the famous flying mechanical bird, hand crafted jewelry, dinnerware, and Eleanor Coppola’s family recipe chocolate sauces and marmalades. The Sofia Coppola designed t-shirt was selling fast. My husband spent most of his time looking at the extensive movie memorabilia, which includes Don Corleone’s desk in The Godfather (1972). Francis Ford Coppola says the winery is meant to be “a wine wonderland, a park of pleasure where people of all ages can enjoy all the best things life- food, wine, music, dancing, games, swimming, and performances of all types. A place to celebrate the love of life.” Just up the road from the winery is a nice little cafe, Geyserville Mud. The owner, Valerie, has a wealth of information about the history of the town. Local author Joe Pelanconi says, “This piece of Geyserville real estate is the soul of the town, a local hangout that begs one to gossip, laugh, and reminisce. Every small town needs a place like Geyserville Mud.” And their cranberry scones are so tasty! Francis Ford Coppola winery is located at 300 Via Archimedes, Geyserville. Their website is www.FrancisCoppolaWinery.com, and the phone is (707) 857-1471. • Walk out near the pool to see the “Pavilion.” It was inspired by the band shell featured in The Godfather: Part II. It’s a presentation platform for a variety of events including Dancing Under the Stars, which starts up in April 2014. • The winery hosts some family friendly events such as the popular annual Easter egg hunt. A fun winter event is a hot chocolate tasting offered on select Saturdays and Sundays in February. Reservations are required. 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 ~ February 2014 - Page 15
DT
Page 16 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Topping Trees?
By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb
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At Brende & Lamb we get the occasional request to remove some or all of a tree’s crown, a process called topping. There are many reasons why people ask to have a tree topped: increased light, better view, safer tree, or reduced leaf litter. Though it seems counter-intuitive, topping almost always produces the opposite of the desired effect. Topping can decrease available light, mar the view, make a safe tree unsafe, and even increase leaf litter. Take, for example, topping to decrease the shadow cast by a tree. This may work in the very short term, but topping stimulates rapid growth, causing the tree’s crown to thicken, thereby cutting out light after just a few growing seasons. Over time, you get more light for your pruning dollar if instead of topping you give the crown a judicious thinning. When done correctly, thinning doesn’t over stimulate the tree, and it enhances the tree’s aesthetics instead of seriously, sometimes irredeemably, damaging it. Shown: Jessica Simpson “Ellister” Another common misperception is that topping will make the tree safer; it almost always does just Orig.189.99 NOW 142.50 the opposite. Most topped trees decay at the point at which they were topped. Topping also stimulates production of long lanky shoots. Given that these shoots grow out of decaying wood, topping often turns a safe tree into a hazard that increases over time. Some of the more dangerous trees we’ve seen were topped years ago with no follow-up pruning. If you have a previously topped tree growing close to your home, it is a good idea to have a competent arborist give it a safety evaluation. Previously topped trees can be made safer by pruning to reduce wind-sail and by reducing weight on leggy branches. People sometimes top trees to reduce leaf litter, but most trees respond to topping by putting out a profusion of leaves to help repair the damage. In short order, the owner of a topped maple will spend Priced as Marked more time with rake in hand than before the topping. Located across the Parking Lot Topping to increase view is often done without realizing that the new view will include an ugly from McCaulou’s Main Store tree. If the tree in the view is a bay, a eucalyptus, or any number of other fast-growing species, the topping will fail to provide view for long because the topped tree will soon produce sprouts that shoot up into the view. Well-planned pruning can often capture view, and it is often possible to enhance the beauty of the tree in the process. A beautiful view framed by a beautiful tree is far lovelier than a view over the top of an ugly and scarred tree. Another frequent request for topping comes from people about to sell their homes who think that topping their trees will increase the sale price. Real estate professionals know that beautiful trees can raise property values by as much as 20%, whereas a topped tree can be a liability . . . something the bidder on your house might ask you to deduct from the sales price so that they can have the tree removed. For further information about the perils of tree topping, go to the website of the International Society of Arboriculture, and read the article at www.treesaregood.org/treecare/topping.aspx. If you are thinking about topping, please reconsider. It is possible to enhance view, increase light, and make trees safer without topping. Doing so does, however, require competent pruning by tree professionals. If your trees need a little TLC please call 510-486-TREE (8733) or email us at bl@brendelamb.com for a free estimate. Additionally, go to our website www.brendelamb.com to see before and after pictures, client testimonials, and work in your neighborhood. Advertorial
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To place an ad, share a story, or for more information Discovering a Sense of Place The Gardens at Heather Farm and City of Walnut Creek Clean about our papers, call us at 925.405.6397 or Water Program presents an exciting speaker series called “Disvisit our website covering a Sense of Place.” A line-up of local naturalists will be
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Lic# 1100014354; Bay Area Entertainment
sharing their expertise to guide participants in discovering the breathtaking area we live in, known as the Diablo Range. This unique series promises to be a transformational experience for anyone interested in delving deeper into local natural history- from the foothills of Mt. Diablo to one’s own backyard! Travel back in time and find out about local Native American Culture on Mt. Diablo and the importance of the Delta and the farming industry in California. Observe nature’s nuances with the introduction of phenology, and learn how creating healing spaces for yourself is also good for the environment. All programs are FREE but require registration by phone at (925)947-1678. All lectures begin at 7pm. Doors open at 6:30pm. Field trip details are available upon reservation. • February 19- Thinking Like a Naturalist: Reclaiming the Art of Natural History • 26 February 26 - The Cultural and Natural History of CC County • March 1 - Field Trip to Morgan Territory • March 26 - The Delta: Its History, Beauty, and Its Future • March 29 - Field Trip to Big Break Regional Shoreline • April 30 - Creating Landscapes That Sustain Us and the Planet • June 4 - An Introduction to Citizen Science (Phenology) • June 7- Field Trip to City Creek Walk The lectures take place at The Gardens at Heather Farm, located at 1540 Marchbanks Drive in Walnut Creek. For information or to register, call (925)947-1678 or visit www.gardenshf.org.
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Life in the Danville Garden
By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect California Casual!
Over the past 20 years, the introduction of drought tolerant, Mediterranean-based plant material has infiltrated the mainstream landscape design styles. The days of junipers, oleanders, Monterrey pines, ivy, and oh yes, agapanthus are long gone. When I interview my clients, one of the questions I ask is, “What plants do you absolutely hate?” The above list always contains the unmentionable plants of the 60’s drought genre. With this winter’s lack of rain and the word “drought” being discussed, California’s sensitive water issues are forever present in our minds. Our firm has always integrated water conserving measures into our design styles as a general practice. As a result of this approach, our landscapes are being planted with a much more diverse plant palette. Nursery growers are cultivating a broader spectrum of plant species as
Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 17
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theserviceoutlet.com well as sub-species and cultivars. What that means in common terms is that we have a better selection of plants to be creative with that have lower water requirements. These new selections are not only showing up in boutique nurseries like Orchard Nursery in Lafayette, but they are also showing up at warehouse stores. The result is a landscape style that I call “California Casual” which enhances the home environment with color, texture, and fragrance. The overall look is a mix of mildly manicured plants and structure in the background, an open sprawling look in the foreground and interesting focal points for directed interest. Background planting is so important because it is what shows off the color, texture, and focal interest. Some good water conserving examples of background plantings are Abelia x grandiflora ‘Sherwoodii’, Choisya ternata ‘Aztec Beauty’ – Mexican Orange, and Rhamnus californica ‘Mound San Bruno’- Coffeeberry, to name a few. Creating a focal point of interest is very important to creating landscape style. You’ve seen those landscapes that you can’t quite put your finger on it why you don’t like it. Well, it’s because what you are seeing is a mix of one of these, and one of those, and two of these, and three of those. Everything is homogeneous! Boring! Create a focal point by bringing your attention to a beautiful multi-trunk tree like Olea europa ‘Swan Hill’ – fruitless olive, Vitex agnus-castus – Chaste Tree, Physocarpus opulifolius ‘Diabolo’ – Ninebark, a gloriously blooming shrub, or a change of texture. And you don’t need just one focal point. Turn a corner and there is another surprise! Make it fun! Now, for what really brings the “California Casual” style together is color, texture, and fragrance. Use lots of perennials for color, grasses for texture, and shrubs and vines for smelly stuff. Lavender, catmint, germander, hardy geraniums, hellebores, and day lilies add vivid color in an open-sprawling manner when set off by that structured background. Ornamental grasses can add the dramatic texture that will set any landscape apart from the homogeneous one. With a wide selection of phormiums – New Zealand flax, Carex - sedge, Festuca - fescues, iris and sub-tropical grasses like Pennisetum setaceum ‘Rubrum Dwarf’ – red fountain grass, a planting design can have drama from spring to late winter with arching blades in various color schemes to whimsical movement of the seed heads. Bring on the fragrance! Daphne, lilac, gardenia, Mexican orange, citrus, lavender, and jasmine can delight your senses from winter to fall. Fragrance adds pleasure to your landscape experience. “California Casual” is a much more relaxed landscape style in comparison to the landscapes of the East Coast, Europe, and landscapes of the 50’s and 60’s. While looking beautiful, they conserve our precious water resources.
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A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: Deadhead (clip off the dying flowers) as the blooms begin to fade to encourage plants to produce more flowers. Also, tell your gardener to leave the power hedge trimmers at home. A “California Casual” landscape requires less watering, pruning, fertilizing, and spraying, thus lowering operating costs and use of resources. Gardening Quote of the Month: “If a person cannot love a plant after he has pruned it, then he has either done a poor job or is devoid of emotion.” - Liberty Hyde Bailey If you would like me to write on any particular subject, email your ideas to jmontgomery@jmla.com or for design ideas, visit www.jmla.com. Advertorial
Page 18 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Cattle on a Thousand Hills By Beverly Lane
The San Ramon Valley’s undulating gold and green hills reflect over 200 years of ranching history. When the Spanish first settled Alta California, they brought livestock with them and transformed the landscape. In 1769 about 200 cattle were moved from Baja to Alta, California with the first Spanish invasion led by Gaspar de Portola and Father Junipero Serra. Juan Bautista de Anza’s 1775-1776 epoch expedition from New Spain brought the initial colonists and about 1000 livestock -- 695 horses and mules and 355 cattle. As the 21 California missions were established, each one was allotted 18 cattle and four swine in addition to horses, sheep, goats, and mules. Descended from animals brought to the Americas by the Spanish two hundred years earlier, the cattle were primarily Longhorn and Corriente breeds. They flourished mightily on the region’s congenial landscape. Great herds of cattle and horses covered the California countryside, beginning the hide and tallow economy of the Hispanic era. These grazing animals changed the environment, replacing the native perennial grasses and herbaceous flowering plants nurtured by the Indians to the annual Mediterranean grasses we know today. Beginning with wild oats, these grasses include annual foxtails, Italian ryegrass, rat-tail fescue, soft chess, cheatgrass, medusa-head, and goatgrass. “The seed stuck to the hides and wool of the livestock and from imported feed and ballast accompanying the new livestock in ships’ holds,” according to botanist David Amme. The San Ramon Valley was part of Mission San Jose’s land, which grazed cattle and sheep from Fremont north to Concord. In 1832 the Mission reported that they grazed 12,000 cattle, 13,000 sheep, and 13,000 horses. Mission San Jose was the most productive of all the northern California missions, in terms of Indians recruited and agricultural production. With no fences in place, the free-ranging cattle or, in Spanish vacas, evolved into fierce feral animals. Historian Robert Cleland wrote: “The breeding of cattle being the chief occupation of the Californians…it determined their mode of life, the structure of their society, and the size of their ranchos.” Indian and Spanish vaqueros tended the livestock and were famous for their riding and roping skills. They were the precursors of our American cowboy. After the Mexican Revolution and closure of the Spanish-led missions, more than 800 Mexican ranchos were granted throughout the state. In the San Ramon
Clip Notes
By Jody Morgan
Flags flying on President’s Day summon stories about the original banners of American independence. Like many early flags, the one hoisted at Fort Schuyler, possibly the first official Continental flag raised in battle, was pieced together from fabric at hand. On August 2, 1777, as British troops surrounded the fort, Colonel Peter Gansevoort ordered his company to start sewing. Their flag flew the following morning. Writing 25 years later, Lieutenant Colonel Marinus Willet related: “The Flag was sufficiently large, and a general Exhilaration of Spirits appeared on beholding it Wave the morning after the arrival of the enemy.” Red and white material was collected from “sundry persons.” The blue Willet states came “out of a cloak.” A bill submitted by Captain Abraham Swoutwart for eight shillings to replace his cloak used “for the colors” corroborates the story. The patriots held their position for twenty days until the siege was lifted. The cloth for Swoutwart’s blue cloak might have been dyed with either woad or indigo. However, a curious connection between our first president and the lady who made indigo a successful cash crop in South Carolina suggests indigo should be the focus of this month’s musings. Although many plants in the same genus are capable of turning cloth blue, Indigofera tinctoria was preferred for that purpose in the Old World from the time it was first cultivated in India in the fourth millennium BC. Ancient Greeks called the dyestuff extracted from the leaves “indikon,” substance of India. Natives of Central and South America made blue pigment from an indigenous species, Indigofera suffruticosa, As the British textile industry burgeoned during the 18th century, the demand for the reliable blue dyestuff increased. Because these shrubby perennials require a warm climate with adequate moisture, Europeans cultivated indigo in their Caribbean colonies. Attempts to grow indigo crops on the North American mainland failed until Eliza Lucas Pinckney developed a variety that thrived in South Carolina. Born in Antigua in 1722, Eliza Lucas was educated in England. She moved with her parents and younger sister to a family property near Charleston in 1738. Her mother’s health failed just as her father, a British officer, was recalled to his
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Valley, Jose Maria Amador’s Rancho San Ramon covered over 20,000 acres of the San Ramon, Dougherty, and Tassajara Valleys with a large headquarters in Dublin. This rancho, which was formally granted to Amador in 1835, was stocked with at least 300 horses, 3,000 sheep, and 13,000 head of cattle. Mariano Castro Restored Mission San Jose in Fremont and Bartolome Pacheco received the Rancho San Ramon Valle north of Amador in 1834, and it covered two leagues (about 8,000 acres) in today’s Danville and Alamo. They came to the valley only for periodic round-ups and cattle slaughters. Cattle hides and tallow were the main trade items, and beef was the principal food. Amador’s 150 workers used the leather hides to produce harnesses, saddles, shoes, as well as manufacturing furniture. He had regular sales contracts for cattle hides (called “California banknotes”) and transported them by ox cart over today’s Dublin grade to the Bay. Hispanic Californians were experienced cattle raisers. Dry years were the only threat to production. Rodeos, or round-ups, were held twice yearly so that stock could be branded by each owner. Brands were registered and changed only with permission of the governor. A juez de campo, or field judge, settled disputes over the ownership of animals at their rodeos. William Heath Davis listed the largest land and cattle owners of California’s pastoral era and estimated that there were 1,220,000 head of cattle on the ranchos. Throughout Alta California, cattle and horses doubled their numbers roughly every two years. Before the Gold Rush, Alta California indeed had cattle on a thousand hills. Next month: Ranching in California’s early American years. Be sure to visit the exhibit at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville. It is called “Cowboys and Cattlemen, Ranching in the San Ramon Valley.” For more information, see museumsrv.org. post in Antigua. Left in charge of the 600-acre plantation, sixteen year-old Eliza experimented with various potentially profitable enterprises including raising silkworms. Undaunted by several unsuccessful trials, Eliza finally discovered the secret to getting the indigo seeds sent to her by her father to yield a respectable crop. In order to produce a premium dye product, the plant stems were cut just prior to blooming. A second (and sometimes a third) harvest was possible annually. The leaves were soaked, beaten, and decayed successively in five vats. The sludge, dripdried in linen bags, yielded a powdery pigment that could be molded into cakes. If you have ever gotten a whiff of foliage decomposing in a vase, you can imagine the intensely disagreeable odor associated with the time-consuming, labor-intensive chore of processing indigo. Skilled “indigo makers” could produce 60 pounds of indigo per acre, utilizing about twelve tons of fresh plants. Married at twenty-two to Charles Pinckney, Eliza continued her work with the support of her husband. In 1744, after shipping six pounds of high-quality dye to London, she let enough of her plants go to seed to supply her neighbors with the new indigo strain. Recognizing the superior quality of Pinckney’s product, the British government offered a bonus of six pence per pound for the colony’s exports. By 1755, South Carolina was exporting in excess of 200,000 pounds of pigment each year. By 1775, other southern colonies were also producing indigo. Their combined exports totaled 1,122,200 pounds. War brought an end to British enthusiasm for American indigo. While Eliza’s sons Charles and Thomas, both officers in Washington’s army, were fighting for American independence, the family plantation lost its major source of income. By the time the Revolutionary War ended, England had established cheaper indigo suppliers in India. Turning first to politics, Charles signed the Constitution as a delegate from South Carolina. He ran twice for President of the United States, losing to Thomas Jefferson and James Madison. But Charles also revisited one of his mother’s earlier agricultural experiments. Along with a few other planters, Charles helped to replace indigo with a new cash crop: cotton. Eliza Pinckney’s contribution to the American economy was not forgotten. When she died in 1793, President George Washington honored her achievements by serving as one of her pallbearers.
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Solar Currents, Safe and Secure Financial Return By Mark Becker, GoSimpleSolar
In a recent acquisition, Google has purchased Nest Labs, well known for their internet based thermostats. For those in the energy efficiency industry, this came as no surprise. A couple of years ago, Google became a third party financier of residential solar PV (electric) systems by supplying $75 million in loans to homeowners through a company called Clean Power Finance. Now, Google will profit not only as an energy financier but by helping home and business owners manage their energy usage. Their future product line is going to change the way we manage our energy use at home. An investor like Google, with deep pockets, has the money to spend on research and development. A “smart home” will result, and Google will make billions of dollars in the process. Google became a power supplier through their investments, and now they are pining to be your energy manager. Most thermostats can be programmed to pre-cool the house during the summer before the daily “peak” period costs kick in, and Nest Labs has taken this technology one step further. Managing energy at a home from a distance allows greater efficiency gains (read savings). Electric cars are “smart” and are able to be programmed to charge during periods of low cost “off peak” electricity rates. This is only the tip of the iceberg. Combined with a solar PV system, this type of smart energy management allows solar systems to generate maximum credits during peak and part-peak electric hours, reducing annual bills even further (read making money). Why should my son or daughter’s lava lamp run continuously when their room or the home is unoccupied? Someone at Google put two and two together. If you are the owner of a swimming pool, you’re the owner of a piece of equipment that must have its energy use managed properly. If your pool pump is old, or programmed improperly, or both, you’re throwing money away every day by buying more than twice the amount of electricity you need to manage your pool’s cleanliness and circulation. Today’s technology allows you to send me photos of your pool pumps and their data plates via text or email almost instantaneously. A virtual assessment results and a determination can be quickly made whether you’re spending your retirement savings on unnecessary electric use. As a solar, roofing and energy efficiency company, our goals are to ensure that
San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society
The San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society meets at 10AM the third Tuesday of every month, except August and December, at the Danville Family History Center, 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. There will be a speaker at every meeting. Everyone is welcome. For information, call Ed at (925) 299-0881, visit www.srvgensoc.org, or email SRVGS@SRVGenSoc.org.
Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 19 a properly sized solar system is designed and installed on a leak free roof. Leveraging energy efficiency management at home has an impact on solar system design and installation. During the design phase of a solar PV system, it is absolutely necessary to find the items in the home or business that consume excess electricity. Ignoring these culprits will increase the likelihood of a sale of a larger solar PV system, but it is an approach, in my opinion, that is contrary to what should be encouraged: all around efficiency which benefits the customer, and integrity in the business process which ultimately benefits the business. Adherence to this approach ensures that the potential customer is informed about the efficiency measures that will result in a solar PV system of smaller size and thereby lesser initial cost. This approach will create best value and lowest long term cost of ownership. When coupled with an installation approach which utilizes appropriately trained install teams and products which have historically performed reliably in the field, the result will be a no or low maintenance solar PV system with maximized financial returns: profits, not just savings. Saving money with energy efficiency improvements and solar PV is a bit of a misnomer; making money is really what results. An 11-13% return on investment is about average. The average residential solar system will pay for itself eight to ten times over and save hundreds of thousands of dollars in monies not paid to PGE. With above average energy management efforts, the returns will be even higher. Many of the finance professionals that make up our clientele ask about how ROI is calculated. Historic electric usage, a discount rate of 3.5%, the average annualized historical PGE rate increase of 6.7% per year and a solar PV system design based ONLY on the National Renewable Energy Labs calculators determine annual solar kWh production. The old adage “You have to spend money to make money” is particularly true with an investment in a solar energy system and energy efficiency. Someone is going to make money as your energy provider, be it PGE, Google, or yourself. Like Google, you’ll make the greatest profit if you produce and manage your own energy. Mark Becker is the President of GoSimpleSolar, by Semper Fidelis Construction Inc, a Danville based Solar Installation Firm (License 948715). Mark can be reached at 925.915.9252. Visit GoSimpleSolar’s NEW and larger showroom at 100 Railroad Avenue, Suite B, Danville (behind Pete’s Brass Rail) or www.GoSimpleSolar.com, or email Mark@GoSimpleSolar.com. Advertorial
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Page 20 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Traveling Accessories
By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO
What could be better than visiting somewhere warm in the middle of winter? That’s the question I was asking myself as I purchased tickets to Baja, where I was fortunate enough to spend last week. I want to share with you some of the things I learned along the way. My wife and I have several packing lists which help us get ready to travel. With all the new electronics and accessories in our lives, we’ve had to build a new packing list for staying connected and charged up while we’re on the road. The first thing to decide is which device/s you’re going to take with you. I wanted to travel light and only needed WiFi since I wouldn’t be ‘Roaming’ (too expensive). Thus the iPad became the central device for my trip. My laptop would be too clunky. Every computer has its share of cables, and the iPad is no different. For charging I use high-current power adapters to give my iPad (and iPhone) as rapid of a charge as possible. Search for ‘Anker USB Charger’ on Amazon, and you’ll see the kind of chargers I’m talking about. You want to get one with a high current and wattage rating, such as 3.6a and 25w. This indicates how much juice it can provide your device while charging. When you’re away from wall power, it’s great to have a portable power-pack like the one from “Jackery.” I use the ‘Giant’ which will give my iPad three full charges before having to be recharged itself. It’s a life-saver when you’ve had a busy day and your battery is dying. The next cables I needed were for transferring photos. Since I’m in the computer business, everyone expects me to take care of consolidating the trip photos. I needed a USB mini cable for my wife’s camera, a USB to SD Card adapter for my friend’s camera, a USB to Lightning connector to get photos from the newer iPhones in the group, and a USB to old-style iPhone connector to get photos from the old ones. In all, four cables and adapters did the trick, and I gathered photos from everyone’s devices and put them on my iPad before we parted ways. Now that all the photos were on my iPad, you would think things would
CASA continued from front page
difference today and for generations to come. I tell potential volunteers that while we cannot do anything about what brought these children under the care of the courts, we can certainly make a difference in their futures.” CASA volunteers have four main responsibilities on each of their cases: 1) To investigate/assess the child’s best interests systematically and objectively. 2) Identify resources and services for the child/youth and facilitate a collaborative relationship between all parties on the case, i.e. caregivers, social workers, attorneys, doctors, teachers and others. 3) Advocate by speaking-up for and pleading the case of the child for whom the volunteer is appointed. 4.) Monitor the case by keeping track of whether the orders of the court, as well as the plans of Children and Family Services (CFS), are carried out. Volunteers report to the court, and CFS when any parties do not follow orders and plans. The CASA volunteer is usually the only constant for a child who is involved with the court system, and for this reason, volunteers must make a two-year commitment; the average length of service is four years. Advocates volunteer 15 to 20 hours per month and are required to see their child once per week for one to four hours. Volunteers stay with the child until either the child in reunified with parents, adopted or placed with a guardian, or age out of the system. CASA volunteers are at least 21 years of age and come from a variety of professions; women comprise approximately 84% and about 65% are age 55 or older and are either semi-retired or fully retired. “Our volunteers come from a variety of life experiences both personally and professionally and educationally,” says Mead. “The common thread is the desire to make a positive impact on the life of a child who due to no fault of their own is under the care of the Juvenile Courts of Contra Costa County. The other common thread is a willingness to give one of the most precious elements in life, their time.” Peggy Forest of Lafayette first learned of CASA from an article she read more than a dozen years ago. She had held onto that article in the hope that some day she might find the time to serve as a CASA. She was sworn-in a little over a year ago, and received her first assignment shortly thereafter. “It always seemed unacceptable to me that many children in our foster care system were often under-served and not protected,” says Forest. “A CASA provides a unique position in which to participate in the life of a foster youth and hopefully improve the prospects for their future. The
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get easier. Not true. If it were a perfect world and I only used iTunes, and I only took photos with my iPhone and iPad, it would probably be easy. I would use iTunes to manage the process, and all would work out. But that was not the case. I don’t want iTunes to manage my photos. In fact, there is no way it could, and I find the whole application annoying. It’s easier for me to get my photos out of iTunes so they’re accessible with other programs. My work-around is to have Dropbox and SkyDrive loaded on my iPad. I’ve written about these before. They are both internet-based hardisk storage services, and they let you store your data in a secure ‘cloud’ based environment. The iPhone and iPad versions of the App have a feature which automatically backs up your photos to their service in the background, which is an easy and effective way to get the photos out of the closed Apple world and into the real world where photos can be easily managed, manipulated, copied, and otherwise enjoyed. Let me take a moment to express that I’m not bashing Apple, and I really don’t want a bunch of emails telling me how much superior it is to the PC, blah, blah, blah. iTunes a great system if you’re willing and able to live completely inside of it. But if you need to straddle several systems and don’t have a perfect environment, the ‘Apple Way’ of syncing photos through iTunes is a pain, and services like Dropbox, SkyDrive, and Google Drive are indeed a blessing. Now that I’m home, my iPad is busy uploading the 1,100 photos from our group up into my Dropbox account. From there, I’ll send a simple ‘sharing’ link to my friends, and they’ll be able to view, download, and enjoy the trip photographs at their leisure. Alternatively, I could upload them from there into Shutterfly or use a similar service which puts more of a ‘wrapper’ around the photos. I could annotate the photos, put them in small album groups, etc. However, I need to get back to work, so I’ll leave the photos in Dropbox, and someone else can take it from there! What we do with systems is often just a case of connecting and integrating. The methods I described here are simply my way, this time, of working with, and around, our technology. Your situation is probably a little different, but not so much so that these suggestions won’t work. If you need help putting it all together, you should call the friendly staff at Portable CIO at 925-552-7953, or email us at helpdesk@theportablecio.com with your questions. There’s always a way! Advertorial most rewarding part of being a CASA is to see hope in a child where there once was none, and to help a child realize that their future can include an education and a home and a family, despite their past. The most difficult part is accepting that you can’t fix everything. You have to prioritize the child’s needs and recognize that those needs are constantly changing. You may spend all your time one month just ensuring that basic needs are met, i.e. food, shelter, education, and safety, when what you had hoped to be doing was helping to fill out scholarship applications.” Mead says that volunteers do, in a large percentage of cases, develop significant relationships with their charges, though CASAs need to maintain boundaries in order to maximize their effectiveness as advocates for the children’s best interests. Volunteers cannot share any information about their case with their own family or take a child home due to the volunteers being sworn officers of the court and bound by the rules of confidentiality to which children are covered by law. “Each case is different as each child has different issues relating to adults,” says Mead. “Our CASAs go through 40 hours of training and learn techniques to build trust with the child, which is a significant challenge.” Mead concedes that the most difficult aspects of his job are the challenges faced by many community-based nonprofit organizations in the current economy, but he stays optimistic, “The great thing about CASA of Contra Costa County is that the difficulties presented by the economy have also presented opportunities. Through strong leadership of my board of directors, our highly leveraged volunteers, and my dedicated staff we have been able to navigate the turbulent economy.” Unfortunately, economic woes tend to ignite risky behaviors within families, and thus, the need for CASA volunteers continues to increase. Individuals interested in exploring opportunities with CASA are encouraged to visit www.cccocasa.org or contact CASA Volunteer Recruitment Coordinator Gina Turturici at 925 256-7284 ext. 7. Donations, of which 80% of each donated dollar directly funds the CASA program, can also easily be made on the website. “Our donors feel confident that the money they donate is being spent on critical issues that help change the lives of abused and neglected children for the better,” says Mead. “This is what we do at CASA. To paraphrase what one of our Juvenile Court Commissioners states as he prepares to swear-in new CASA volunteers, next to raising your own children this volunteer work as a CASA will be the second most important thing you will do in your life.”
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Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 21
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Page 22 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Use “Tax Diversification” to Help Manage Retirement Income By Sima Alefi
You need to save and invest as much as possible to pay for the retirement lifestyle you’ve envisioned. But your retirement income also depends, to a certain degree, on how your retirement funds are taxed. And that’s why you may be interested in tax diversification. To understand the concept of tax diversification, you’ll need to be familiar with how two of the most important retirement-savings vehicles — an IRA and a 401(k) — are taxed. Essentially, these accounts can be classified as either “traditional” or “Roth.” When you invest in a traditional IRA or 401(k), your contributions may be tax-deductible and your earnings can grow tax deferred. With a Roth IRA or 401(k), your contributions are not deductible, but your distributions can potentially be tax-free, provided you meet certain conditions. (Keep in mind, though, that to contribute to a Roth IRA, you can’t exceed designated income limits. Also, not all employers offer the Roth option for 401(k) plans.) Of course, “tax free” sounds better than “tax deferred,” so you might think that a Roth option is always going to be preferable. But that’s not necessarily the case. If you think your tax bracket will be lower in retirement than when you were working, a traditional IRA or 401(k) might be a better choice, due to the cumulative tax deductions you took at a higher tax rate. But if your tax bracket will be the same, or higher, during retirement, then the value of tax-free distributions from a Roth IRA or 401(k) may outweigh the benefits of the tax deductions you’d get from a traditional IRA or 401(k). So making the choice between “traditional” and “Roth” could be tricky. But here’s the good news: You don’t necessarily have to choose, at least not with your IRA. That’s because you may be able to contribute to both a traditional
Giving to Children - Is Equal Always Fair? By Robert J. Silverman
Parents usually try their best to treat their children equally, and children tend to expect that. But is equal always fair? And how does this work in the context of estate planning? While giving to children equally is a common parental goal, it is impossible. Children have different needs, intellects, hobbies, educational goals, aspirations, etc. Accordingly, I have never encountered a parent with multiple children who keeps a ledger for each from birth and insists upon strict equality in giving. If one child plays baseball and another lacrosse, and the cost to participate differs, should the parents make an equalizing distribution to the child whose sport costs less? Most parents would answer, “Of course not.” Is the answer tougher if the parent pays tuition for one child who chooses to go to an expensive private college and pays tuition for another child who chooses to go to a community college? What if one child has extensive medical expenses or disabilities or needs more support in launching into adulthood? In the estate planning realm, these kinds of questions, and even more difficult ones, are frequently raised. The interesting and challenging part is that there are no universally right and wrong answers – just right and wrong ones (or better and worse ones) in the judgment of any given parent. Below, I describe a few common situations that raise questions of equality and fairness, and I identify some of the associated estate planning implications. Loans to children - Suppose you make a loan to one but not all of your children or make loans to multiple children but in different amounts. How should such loans be treated upon the death of the parent? Again, no set answer, but in all cases such loans should be documented. First, a promissory note should be prepared by an attorney and signed by the child borrower. Second, good records should be kept so that if the parent dies, the parent’s successor trustee or executor can easily identify the loan balance. Third, the parent’s Living Trust or Will should state what is to happen with that loan receivable upon the parent’s death. Without adequate documentation, ambiguities arise and frequently lead to conflict, if not seriously damaged relationships, between the children.
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IRA and a Roth IRA, assuming you meet the Roth’s income guidelines. This allows you to benefit from both the tax deductions of the traditional IRA and the potential tax-free distributions of the Roth IRA. And once you retire, this “tax diversification” can be especially valuable. Why? Because when you have money in different types of accounts, you gain flexibility in how you structure your withdrawals — and this flexibility can help you potentially increase the amount of your after-tax disposable income. If you have a variety of accounts, with different tax treatments, you could decide to first make your required withdrawals (from a traditional IRA and 401(k) or other employer-sponsored plan), followed, in order, by withdrawals from your taxable investment accounts, your tax-deferred accounts and, finally, your taxfree accounts. Keep in mind, though, that you may need to vary your actual sequence of withdrawals from year to year, depending on your tax situation. For example, it might make sense to change the order of withdrawals, or take withdrawals from multiple accounts, to help reduce taxes and avoid moving into a different tax bracket. Clearly, tax diversification can be beneficial. So after consulting with your tax and financial advisors, consider ways of allocating your retirement plan contributions to provide the flexibility you need to maximize your income during your retirement years. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation. 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 A Living Trust or Will should specify whether such loans are to be repaid in full or whether they are to be fully or partially forgiven. Moreover, it’s critical to clarify whether or not the amount of such loan forgiveness is to be charged against the borrower child’s share of the trust/estate. Child Caretaker - Not infrequently, a child becomes a part-time or full-time caretaker for aging parents. In doing so, the child may make substantial personal and/or financial (e.g. employment/career) sacrifices. An estate planning attorney can help parents evaluate the circumstances and navigate reasonable solutions. Again, documentation is critical. Parents should consider working with their estate planning attorney (and accountant) to draft an appropriate contract under which the child is paid a reasonable wage for the caretaking. If a parent has insufficient liquid assets to pay the child or if the child refuses to take any pay, the parent may wish to include in his or her Living Trust or Will a cash gift to be made (and/or a slightly higher percentage of the assets) to such child upon the parent’s death. Such parent would also be well advised to articulate in the document the reason the children are being provided for unequally. The other children may not like or agree with the stated reason, but they will understand why the parent believed the unequal treatment to be appropriate and fair. Other critical estate planning decisions that could be perceived as “unequal” may be necessary or desirable. These may include: i) holding funds in trust after a parent dies until an older age for some children than others; ii) choosing one or several children, but not all, to serve as successor trustee of the parent’s Living Trust or executor of the parent’s Will; iii) designating one particular child rather than another as agent under the parent’s Power of Attorney and/or Advance Health Care Directive. Attorneys don’t have all the answers, but one of their most valuable functions is to know what questions to ask and how to guide their clients to answers that work best for the clients and their loved ones. 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
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The Secularization and Spread of Mindfulness By Joree Rosenblatt
There is a growing trend you may have heard about. And though most trends come and go, I can say with certainty that this one is here to stay. How can I say that with such assuredness? It’s because it’s been around for over 2,500 years. What is the trend I am referring to? It’s actually not a trend at all, but as with the popularization of new zeitgeists, until it becomes more part of the everyday paradigm, it can be viewed as a trend. I digressed into linguistics; I apologize. This phenomenon that is growing in practice, in science, and in popularity is Mindfulness. (In fact, the Time magazine issue that came out on January 27 has dedicated the cover story to The Mindful Revolution.) Mindfulness has been around for over 2,500 years and has historically been a practice in the East. However, over the past 35 years it has made its way into our Western culture and society, and more recently there has been an even bigger surge in the awareness of mindfulness. Why is this? I believe it is because people are realizing that for a variety of different reasons their lives just aren’t working, and they need tools to cope and to get through it all with a bit more ease, acceptance, and peace. Mindfulness, rooted in Buddhist meditation practice, is the practice of being in the present moment and living life with greater awareness, attention, and intention. It provides tools on how to view yourself (and others) with non-judgmental acceptance and show up in your life as a more active participant, rather than a passive bystander to whatever curve balls life throws you. Cultivating and maintaining a mindfulness practice allows you to experience peace and calm through the chaos as you learn to bear witness to what is occurring inside you and around you, without the constant need to change or alter what is happening. Breathing and simply allowing space for whatever is arising in the moment is the cornerstone to the practice. One of the main reasons I see for this increase of mindfulness awareness is that this practice works to help us to live the lives we want to be living. And, as
Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 23 scientists have been proving, there are benefits of practicing mindfulness for our brain, our health, and our overall wellbeing and the more secular application it has in our everyday lives. In the East, scientific proof was never needed because living mindfully was simply a way of being; the people didn’t care what scientists proved is happening in their brain when they practice. They simply know that they feel better, they have a more peaceful outlook on life, and they have the tools to respond and not react. However, here in the West, we like to know that what we are doing is worth our time and is known to be beneficial; we don’t always believe on faith alone. And so, mindfulness has spread into many areas of our secular American society, with much proven success. Though grounded in the fundamentals of the Buddhist practice, secular application of mindfulness practices are being developed and practiced within our health care system, our military, the education system, the business world, and in the family unit. Mindfulness is a newer Western trend, but with the time-tested proven track record for bringing peace and awareness into people’s lives, combined with the science to back up what is happening physiologically, there is no reason not to give it a try. One of the ways to learn more is to attend a free screening of the new documentary The Mindfulness Movie which highlights this secularization and spread of mindfulness across our country. Shown with experts in the field, current scientific research and interviews with people on the street, this movie demonstrates why this trend will last and how you can incorporate it into your life. I am hosting a screening of The Mindfulness Movie, followed by a discussion on how to cultivate your own practice, on Thursday, February 27 from 7-8:30PM at The Seven Hills School in Walnut Creek. The event is free, however space is limited and a RSVP is necessary. Please contact me at joree@joreerose.com for more info or to secure your spot. 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
Museum continued from front page
fornia Indians, learn about how they used nature’s bounty, and see the tools they employed in their daily life. In 1995, MusSRV ran a trial at the Tassajara One-Room Schoolhouse of the living history experience developed by Joan Kurtz. Now every third-grader in SRVUSD has the opportunity to discover what school was like in 1888. Asked about his most memorable moment as a docent, Jerry Warren, President of the Board of Directors of MusSRV recalls, “We invited San Ramon High School students to an exhibit entitled We the People. Several of them talked about how much they enjoyed spending a day at the Tassajara One-Room Schoolhouse as third-graders. We touched their lives and made history more for them than something from a dusty old book.” Even if you don’t have children in the SRVUSD, you may want to check out the passport program provided by MusSRV to all third grade teachers. The booklet, refined since its 2004 debut, lists historical sites
Jerry Warren points out the Danville Depot on the Museum’s Southern Pacific Railroad display.
The Museum of the San Ramon Valley also serves as a visitor information center for the valley.
in the Valley to visit that surprise many parents. Children are encouraged to sketch, be photographed, do rubbings and add comments. Some teachers offer extra credit, while others incorporate the suggestions into their curriculum. In 1991, MusSRV began mounting annual exhibits at the Danville Fine Arts Gallery, then housed on the second floor of the Village Theatre. These continued through 1997. Fundraising positioned the non-profit to acquire the 1891 Danville Southern Pacific Railroad Depot. On June 6, 1996, the depot was moved 600 feet north to its present location at 205 Railroad Avenue. On June 26, 1999, the restored structure opened as a museum. Built as one of four identical facilities along the Central Contra Costa branch line, the Danville depot is the only one still retaining its original form. The two-story buildings had a waiting room, a baggage room, a freight room, and a ticket office on the ground level. The second floor was a two-bedroom apartment for the station agent’s family. Danville’s depot survived as a feed store beginning in the 1940’s under Helen Benn’s
See Museum continued on page 26
Page 24 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Your Personal Nutritionist
How Much Protein do I Really Need Each Day? By Linda Michaelis RD,MS
Already this new year I have evaluated many food diaries that clients bring in, and often I see they are not consuming enough protein. As I tell them, this easily explains why they are feeling hungry all the time and having endless cravings for sweets. The question I often get is, “How much protein do I really need to reach my weight loss goal, as well as build muscle and feel my best.” First of all, I tell my client the food label is upside down. Protein is the last item listed on the label, when in fact it should be the first. It is the most important food group and is thus very easily overlooked. Protein is expressed in grams, as if we are on the metric system, rather than in ounces or pounds which typically is how we purchase protein in our markets. So we need to know how many grams of protein is equal to an ounce. Let me use my favorite example which I use with clients: the gold standard cereal Kashi Go Lean. Kashi Go Lean has 13 grams of protein for a 1 cup serving. If you learn that 1 oz. of protein is equal to 7 grams, then you will see that you are getting almost 2 oz. of protein from the cereal. The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is established by The Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of Sciences. It is based on your body weight. It is suggested that individuals consume 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight for a healthy adult, or roughly 54 grams daily for a 150 pound female or 71 grams daily for a 195 pound male. This calculation does not factor in exercise, and I find it overestimates protein needs for overweight or obese people. For my active clients and those who workout often, this amount of protein is far too low. Then the board has also presented a distribution range for protein based on actual calorie intake, saying that protein should make up 10-35% of daily calories for the healthy adult. That comes to about 38-131 grams of protein daily for someone eating 1,500 calories or 45-158 grams daily when eating 1,800 calories per day. I will always suggest that my client veer on the higher side of protein intake. I create personalized protein recommendations for my clients based on their
A Day to do Something Special By Barbara Persons, MD, Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc.
Saint Valentine was a third century Roman saint who has long been associated with the tradition of courtly love. Every February 14th gifts and letters (an estimated one billion Valentine’s Day cards each year) are exchanged between loved ones, all in the name of Saint Valentine. The oldest known valentine was a poem written in 1415 by Charles, Duke of Orleans (Go forth, my heart, with my lady…with grace and mercy.) By the middle of the 18th century, it was common for both friends and lovers to exchange small tokens of affection. I like to think of Valentine’s Day as a day to do something special. Some of my fondest memories are of writing cards for elementary school classmates. In some years, however, it was the preparation for Valentine’s Day that was special. Valentine’s Day is a time to feel and look your best. Whether you are preparing for a romantic evening, warming up the winter blues, or want to give a gift to someone, here are eight ideas that might help you on your way. 1. A consultation - I find this to be one of the most important interactions I have with my patients. I enjoy answering questions and offering both personal and professional advice. I’m often surprised at how many people ask if surgery is right for them. 2. Botox or Dysport injection - Most commonly used around the eyes and forehead, it can be used both to prevent and treat wrinkles. 3. Volumizing filler injection - This is an excellent way to refresh your appearance, address moderate to severe facial wrinkles, and give youthful contour to the skin. 4. Fraxel laser treatment - Certainly not what King Henry V had in mind when he hired a writer to compose a valentine note to Catherine of Valois we’ve come a long way since then. For Valentine’s Day preparation, I recommend a first treatment one week before the big day. A series of treatments (generally 3-4) address texture problems, fine lines and wrinkles, and pigmentation
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lifestyle, age, exercise, and health concerns. I suggest that protein should be distributed mostly during the day as opposed to eating the large traditional protein meal for dinner. This eating style keeps you more satisfied, and prevents blood sugar fluctuations and cravings for sweets. I educate my clients about the fact that protein takes several hours to digest and creates a fullness that you will not get from a carbohydrate based meal. When I work with a new client, I first set up a meal plan for them with specific amounts of protein at each meal and snack. I teach them how to make sure they are getting at least 2 ounces of protein at breakfast, such as by eating the favorite Kashi Go Lean, 1 whole egg and egg whites with veggies, and 100% whole wheat toast or even oatmeal and Greek yogurt. I make it a point to create a list of 2oz. protein snacks that are portable and tasty such as beef jerky, portion sized almonds, 1 cup of cottage cheese, bean soup, or peanut butter with celery or apple. We talk about making sure that lunch contains at least 4-6 oz. of protein along with a healthy grain and a cup of veggies. I take a lot of time to put together a yummy list of lunches that can be taken to work or eaten at clients’ favorite lunch spots. I encourage parents to make sure that their kids are eating protein based lunches that prevent them from coming home from school famished and wanting to snack all afternoon. Clients are always surprised that I tell them for dinner we do not need protein if we have had the amounts that I suggest in prior meals and snacks. The feedback I get is that when dinner comes around they are not as hungry as they use to be, and they are good with having less protein at night. I do want to mention that many of my clients say that trainers tell them that they need more protein and recommend protein shakes galore. I think protein shakes are great for pre or post workouts but often are not filling enough to last for several hours. Contrary to popular belief, studies have shown that consuming more protein than recommended does not lead to increase in muscle size or strength. There is a limit to the rate at which protein can be synthesized into muscle, and muscle size is determined by genetic makeup and training program- not by how much protein one eats. I am glad to inform you that insurance companies will cover nutritional counseling. Please visit LindaRD.com for the list of companies that cover counseling, past articles, and more information about nutritional concerns. Call me at (925) 855-0150 or e-mail me at lifeweight1@yahoo.com. Advertorial issues such as brown spots, but results are noticeable after just one treatment. 5. Laser genesis is a great no-downtime, painless procedure for acne prone skin. While there’s never a simple cure-all for problem skin issues, laser genesis is a good place to start as the laser has enough heat to kill the bacteria in the active breakouts. 6. While not exactly the vestige of Christian and ancient Roman Valentine’s tradition, laser hair removal is a real windfall of living in the 21st century. Several treatments are generally needed, and it works best for darker hair types. 7. Longer lashes! - Latisse is a treatment used to grow lashes, making them longer, thicker, and darker. More voluptuous lashes in just six weeks, are “romantique”! 8. Skin care products - There’s a pleasure in taking time to care for your own skin, and a cream or lotion can also make a nice gift - something to be wrapped up and enjoyed. Sometimes just the process of sharing wisdom (and taking away some of the mystery of youth and beauty) is the most rewarding part of my day. Happy Valentine’s Day! Dr. Barbara Persons is a Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She may be reached at 925.283.4012 or drbarb@ personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial
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
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How do I know if I am Being Overmedicated?
By William Shryer, LCSW, DCSW, Clinical Director, Diablo Behavioral HealthCare
Many people being treated for depression, anxiety disorders, and other related conditions are often worried that they are not being properly medicated. Some clients have told us they felt as if they were someone’s ongoing experiment. We at Diablo Behavioral HealthCare see patients for second opinions all the time, and one would be surprised how often we find people on the oddest combinations of medications for behavioral concerns. One of the primary reasons this happens so often is that at the backbone of America’s health care are the primary care physicians that are responsible for treating many conditions that are really outside their scope of training. However, there are so few resources for them to refer out to that they end up having to treat many conditions that would normally be treated by a psychiatrist. Few realize that internists and family practice doctors do the majority of writing psychiatric mediation prescriptions in the United States. The same is true for children, as the primary care physicians/pediatricians write the majority of the prescriptions for this population. In addition, there is a dire shortage of child psychiatrists to serve this population. What are some of the pitfalls of this system? Managed care mandates that only a certain amount of time is spent per patient, leading up to the writing of a prescription. Many times when a child psychiatrist has seen a child and has not written a prescription the family is quite irritated, due to our society becoming used to or, more appropriately, indoctrinated into seeing a physician and getting a “pill.” For children this can prove to be especially harmful, especially when the child may be having symptoms that are due to an underlying emotional issue that needs to be addressed first. We see kids all the time that require diagnosticians that need to better understand the difference between deficits of attention and Attention Deficit Disorder. A child with Obsessive Compulsive Disorder has deficits of attention as does a depressed child, a traumatized child, a child with a mood disorder, a child with autism spectrum disorder, a grieving child, and the list goes on. How do these same phenomenon effect adults? Actually, it occurs very similarly. Take women that are mildly depressed who are often placed on an antidepressant
Is There Really a Proper Way To Wash Your Face? By Dr. Jerome Potozkin
This may seem like an incredibly simple question, but the answer is yes. I have seen many patients who have had problems that we were able to solve simply by changing how and when they washed their face. Most people tend to over-wash and irritate their skin. Here are my tips for washing your face. 1. Don’t overdo it. Use a mild cleanser and avoid those containing abrasives. Most bar soaps are too drying and irritating. 2. Don’t burn. Wash your face with lukewarm water, not burning hot water. 3. Don’t scrub. We all have the tendency to scrub in an attempt to “get clean.” This will only serve to irritate your skin. 4. Consider a Clarisonic. Clarisonic is a vibrating cleansing device that can get your skin cleaner in a gentle fashion. It works great to remove make up. 5. Moisturize after washing. If you suffer from dry skin, apply a moisturizer after you wash. 6. Limit face washing to twice daily (morning and night). You may also wash after intense perspiration. That’s all you need! One of the most common myths is that acne is a problem of being dirty or not washing enough. Usually, the opposite is true as acne can be made worse by over-washing and irritating your skin. Acne is an inherited skin disease. Fortunately, we have many treatment options to help those suffering with acne. If you or anyone you know is suffering from acne or needs the expertise of a board certified dermatologist, we are currently accepting new patients for 2014. 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
Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 25 without a comprehensive evaluation. We have found women on antidepressants with a thyroid problem, an undiagnosed ADHD, an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder, and with other treatable conditions. One of my favorite sayings that our staff is probably tired of hearing me say is, “The mark of a true professional is to know when you don’t know.” I actually take pride in saying to someone, “I’m not sure about that, but I will find out for you.” Not following this old adage simply leads to errors in diagnosis and proper treatment. So frequently we see patients on too much medication, and this may be due to trying to solve the problem too quickly. Oftentimes certain people have body systems that require a much more gradual increase of medication, but this takes time and managed care doesn’t provide the time or the appointments are far to spread out. One of the bright spots lately is the use of the technology of “pharmacogenetics.” This big word simply means, “Can my body tolerate this medication?” There are tests now that look at someone’s genes to determine if they can metabolize or process the medication that the doctor wants to prescribe. Most insurance companies are now covering these tests. This is one of the areas that makes sense as insurance companies don’t want you getting sick off the medications you’re prescribed, as it will cost them more in the long run. The long and short of this is that the healthcare system in the United States is broken, and no one really knows how to fix it as the special interests have such a hold on the system. This is where Diablo Behavioral HealthCare sets itself apart. We are comprehensive, our physicians are all Board Certified in Psychiatry, and we take the time to get it right. This is a rather rare occurrence in this time of hurry up and pass the pills. For more information on any behavioral or developmental concern, call our office at (925) 648-4800, and we will take the time to answer your questions. To learn more about behavioral disorders, visit our website at www.behaviorquest.com. Our location is 4185 Blackhawk Plaza Circle Suite 210, Danville, CA. Advertorial
Quality Cancer Care: Recognizing Excellence By Sarah Buenviaje, NP
Diablo Valley Oncology and Hematology Medical Group has received reaccreditation by the Quality Oncology Practice Initiative (QOPI®) Certification Program, an affiliate of the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO). The QOPI® Certification Program provides a three-year certification for outpatient hematology-oncology practices that meet the highest standards for quality cancer care. Our goal is to provide the highest level of care to every patient, every day - this recertification from ASCO and QOPI recognizes our commitment to delivering excellent cancer care. Our practice was the first practice in Contra Costa County to achieved QOPI certification in February 2011, recertifying for another three years is very gratifying. “Practices that choose to apply for recertification through QOPI demonstrate their continued commitment to the pursuit of clinical care excellence,” said ASCO President Clifford A. Hudis, MD, FACP. “The QOPI Certification Program helps such practices assess the level of care they provide to their patients and demonstrates their commitment to maintaining quality and lifelong learning.” QOPI is a voluntary, self-assessment and improvement program launched by ASCO in 2006 to help hematology-oncology and medical oncology practices assess the quality of the care they provide to patients. The QOPI Certification Program (QCP) was launched in January 2010, with more than 190 practices already certified nationwide. This certification for outpatient oncology practices is the first program of its kind for oncology in the United States. Oncologists can achieve certification by demonstrating practice consistent with the highest standards of care. The QCP seal designates those practices that not only scored high on the key QOPI quality measures, but meet rigorous safety measures established by ASCO and the Oncology Nursing Society (ONS). Diablo Valley Oncology / Hematology Medical Group, located at the California Cancer and Research Institute in Pleasant Hill, provides comprehensive cancer care to patients by bringing together medical oncology, hematology, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, diagnostic imaging, clinical trials, oncology rehabilitation and supportive care all in one convenient location. For more information call 925-677-5041. Advertorial
Page 26 - February 2014 ~ Danville Today News
Museum continued from page 23
management. In 1951 Joseph Ramos and his son Joe, Jr. took over the lease and set up the Danville Feed and Garden Supply Store. They catered to the increasingly suburban community by stocking pool supplies along with hay. Soon after Joe, Jr. died, MusSRV began plans for acquisition of the building, which is now listed on the National Register of Historic Sites.
The Indian Life exhibit is part of the Museum’s permanent exhibits.
While that designation protects the building for posterity, it also prevents any modification of the structure. The second floor that serves as the museum’s archives is much too small to contain all the items being donated. A search for additional space is in progress. “The Museum of the San Ramon Valley has become the Valley’s attic,” Lane notes. “The artifacts we collect and archives we tend help us tell our shared stories.” Concerning the current exhibit, Cowboys and Cattlemen, Beverly comments, “Some of the stories of cattle drives, of cowboys at Elliott’s, and of brandings and barbecues provide priceless memories.” Following a nationwide search for an Executive Director, the Board discovered the best candidate was already amongst them. Daniel Dunn, former Executive Director of the Blackhawk Automotive Museum, has extensive experience networking with other museums, including the Smithsonian. Utilizing the latest applications of technology to enhance exhibits is one of the Board’s immediate goals. As Dunn explains, “The museum wants to grow. They want to have a greater presence and impact with residents and visitors of the San Ramon Valley. The level of excitement around the museum and its future is impressive. Also impressive is the dedication and enthusiasm of the volunteer corps of the museum.” Dunn feels the presence of a trained professional not only gives the museum greater access to materials and expertise available through connections with other museums, but it also provides the museum’s volunteer community with additional resources. Warren notes, “We are looking to present a wider perspective by bringing in traveling exhibits and creating exhibits that showcase the involvement of the San Ramon Valley in national events.” The lower floor of the museum serves as exhibit gallery, gift shop, and Information Center for Valley visitors. Racks of brochures on sites of interest and helpful information supplied by volunteer greeters are available for free. MusSRV collaborates on exhibits and programs with other local organizations including the Eugene O’Neill Foundation Tao House, Role Players Ensemble, and the libraries of Danville and San Ramon. “When cultural groups work together,” Warren remarks, “the town becomes a richer place.” As MusSRV approaches its 30th anniversary, the organization continues to expand its outreach programs, educational offerings, and ability to tell the personal stories of the people who have shaped the Valley’s history. For information on current exhibits, Valley history, school programs, volunteer opportunities and museum hours, visit www.museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750.
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The Eye Opener
By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry The Macula
The macula is probably the most talked about and questioned structure in the eye. Patients are constantly asking about the macula and macular degeneration because they either have someone in their family or a friend who is battling this disease. I will discuss the macula, some new treatments for macular degeneration, and what you can do to help decrease your chances of getting the disease. The macula is located in the central part of the retina (the back surface of the eye). As light enters the eye, it is focused directly onto the macula, which is centrally located and is 5-6 millimeters in diameter. It is comprised of cones, which are the photoreceptors that allow sharp vision and color vision; there are no cones elsewhere in the retina. These cells then transmit the image through ganglion cells that form the fibers of the optic nerve. The images travel via the optic nerve to the brain. The macula has a yellowish color, which is different from the normal red color of the retina. The retina is red from all of the blood traveling through it. The macula has certain pigmented materials such as lutein and zeaxanthin which are derived from diet alone as these are not made by the body. These components are vital to the health and maintenance of the macula, and they act as an ultraviolet filter for the macula and are also believed to help protect the macula from macular degeneration. Even though the treatments for macular degeneration are getting better, there is still no cure. Injections into the eye of either Lucentis or Avastin have shown the ability to slow down and, in a lot of cases, halt the progression of macular degeneration. Getting a direct injection into the eye is not necessarily fun; however, the likelihood of having vision preservation far outweighs the injections. Older treatments including laser are not current options because the side-effects are sometimes worse, and the possibility of vision improvement is minimal. Unfortunately, as previously mentioned, there is no cure for macular degeneration. There are no drops, pills, etc. that can prevent it. Your likelihood for the disease does increase as you age; therefore it is very important to maintain your overall health. It has been shown that smokers, diabetics, and those with poor diets are more likely to suffer from the disease. That being said, there is a genetic component to the disease that cannot be altered at this point. For the most part, if it is genetically programmed, there is very little that can be done. The things that can be done are lifestyle modification and maintaining your overall health; this includes smoking cessation, properly managing your diabetes and high blood pressure, and having a well-balanced diet. If your intake of green vegetables, which is the main way to maintain lutein and zeaxanthin levels in the macula, then vitamin supplementation is a wise thing to do. There have been several studies that have conclusively shown that adding these along with other minerals have slowed down the progression of macular degeneration. As with most conditions of the eye, annual comprehensive eye exams are the best for early detection. In the early stages of the disease, your vision might not be affected, but there are some macular clinical signs that are evident. Early diagnosis and treatment is still one of the best ways to stretch out the course of the disease which will allow for good vision for a longer period of time. 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 Alamo Optometry Facebook page. Advertorial
Hearing Loss Association
Come to meetings of the Diablo Valley Chapter of Hearing Loss Association of America at 7pm on the 1st Wednesday of the month at the Walnut Creek United Methodist Church located at 1543 Sunnyvale Ave., Walnut Creek Education Bldg., Wesley Room. Meeting room and parking are at back of church. All are welcome. Assistive listening system is available for T-coils, and most meetings are captioned. Contact HLAADV@ hearinglossdv.org or 925-264-1199 or www.hearinglossdv.org.
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Mousing Safety
By Melissa Ko, DC and Kimberly Liotta, DC, Sycamore Valley Chiropractic
Dr. Ko
Jobs such as graphic design, architecture, etc. rely heavily on the computer mouse and have their own unique ergonomic issues. These jobs and others that require workers to spend long hours in front of computers without changing position are a recipe for injury and strain. Consider these easy tips to help change poor work habits and reduce risk factors.
Use the Mouse or Input Device Safely
The further you reach to hold and use the mouse, the more strain you place on your neck. There are alternative techniques and equipment that may help. • Change the position of the mouse to keep your elbows relaxed at your side. • For precision tasks, move the mouse from the wrist, not the fingers. For tasks not requiring as much precision, try to move the whole arm to avoid overuse. • Make sure the mouse fits your hand. If it is too small, squeezing the mouse may cause hand cramping. This also places strain on your wrist and may cause pressure on the median nerve in the carpal tunnel.
Take Advantage of New Technology
• If your computer work requires you to draw, graphics tablets can help. These call for a more natural and relaxed position of the hand, wrist, and forearm. They also encourage healthier whole-arm movement and reduce contact pressure on the sensitive carpal tunnel. Once you are used to graphics tablets, they offer increased control and precision. Choose the smallest tablet that lets you comfortably do your job. • A second trackball or mouse on the left of a keyboard allows you to give your right arm a break. Use the secondary device for e-mail, navigating documents and the Internet, and other non-precision tasks.
Adjust Your Monitor
• Center the screen in front of you. • The screen should be about an arm’s length away. • Place the top line of the glass of the monitor at eye level. If you use bifocals, lower the screen slightly until your head is level and you are not looking upward.
Vasectomy is Forever By Judson Brandeis, MD
Why worry? If you want to take the worry out of what should be a fully pleasant experience, consider vasectomy as a method of permanent birth control. I can remember more than a few couples with children in college who walked into my office pushing a stroller requesting a vasectomy. It really does happen. The cost of raising a child these days is over a half a million dollars, not to mention the sleepless nights and countless hours of worrying. If you feel like your family is complete, it may be time to consider a vasectomy. I am often asked “How it is performed?” The procedure is done in the office under local anesthesia. There is no incision, only two small skin punctures, and no stitches. The whole procedure takes only about 15 to 20 minutes to perform. Most of my patients who have it done on Friday are back to work on Monday. You might be wondering how it feels to have vasectomy. After I apply a local anesthetic to maximize comfort and it takes effect, you will not feel much except some pulling. After the procedure, you will be sore for a few days and back to normal activity within 2-3 days. You might be wondering if anything will be different after a vasectomy. Nothing should be different. Vasectomy is not castration, it only interrupts the tubes that carry sperm from the testes to the semen making a man sterile. All hormonal and sexual functions are unaffected. Ejaculation occurs normally, except that the ejaculate no longer contains sperm. Vasectomy does not pose any long term health risks. What about those billboards in Las Vegas advertising Vasectomy Reversal. Vasectomy can potentially be reversed, but reversing a vasectomy is expensive and does not guarantee returned fertility. Vasectomy should therefore be considered a permanent procedure, it is not recommended as short-term form of birth control. So, if you feel like your family is complete and you want to be able to retire at an age where you can still enjoy life, consider a no scalpel vasectomy. It is quick, easy, and effective. Dr. Brandeis is a Board Certified Urologist with Pacific Urology, with offices in Walnut Creek, Concord, San Ramon, Livermore, Brentwood and Antioch. To contact Pacific Urology, call 925-609-7220 or visit www.PacificUrology.com. Advertorial
Sit Properly
Danville Today News ~ February 2014 - Page 27
• Take the time to adjust the chair to fit you. • If you have neck or shoulder discomfort, raise the armrest of your chair to support your forearm without pushing the shoulder toward the ear. • The ideal chair for these types of jobs places you in an upright posture and encourages full-arm movement. A pear-shaped back design provides spinal support while freeing your shoulder blade and arm to move properly.
Rest Breaks and Task Rotation
• To work properly, muscles need a break to rid Dr. Liotta themselves of lactic acid and waste products while delivering oxygen to the tissues to prevent overuse and damage. • Take 30-second micro-brakes each hour. During the breaks, shake out your arms and stretch your wrists. • Computer users should also frequently look away from their screen and focus on something about 20 feet away. This allows a break for the eye muscles. • If you’re concerned about taking too many breaks, spread out tasks such as walking to the fax and copier, returning phone calls and meeting with coworkers throughout the day. We help patients all the time at our office with computer and workstation related problems. Dr. Melissa Ko is a Certified Ergonomic Specialist and our office provides a unique combination of therapies: • Chiropractic adjustments • Muscle Balancing • Massage Therapy/Myofascial Release • Physiotherapy • Ergonomic Evaluations If you continue to experience pain or discomfort while using a mouse, talk to your Doctor of Chiropractic and consider having an on-site ergonomic evaluation. 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 appointment. Advertorial Doctors of Sycamore Valley Chiropractic
C L A S S I F I E D SELLING YOUR HOME?
THINKING OF SELLING? ONLY 4% commission while inventory is low. FREE estimate, full service, and MLS. Tassajara Valley Realty. Appointment Only. Please call Sylvia at 925-285-1801.
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Danville Real Estate: Area Home Prices Have Recovered
est percentage of remaining distressed sales and as these fade into the The Danville Real Estate market has shown dramatic improvement background one would expect that higher average prices are still to come. While not many homes have sold in Diablo during the past six months, of late. So much that I thought it would be good to take a look at the last the prices and the dollars paid per square foot are extremely encouragsix months of data and review our local market which includes Alamo, Danville, Diablo and Blackhawk. During this time period homes have ing. At an average of $591 per square foot, Diablo stands well above the been selling at a rate of about 32 homes per month through January 27th. other three areas. Diablo boasts an average selling price of nearly $2.4 Only 7% of sales are distressed sales, either bank owned or short sales million. Diablo is without peer in the Danville Area. While trailing the and these special sales are becoming a much smaller drag on our market. other segments of the Danville Real Estate Market, Blackhawk prices Non-distressed, desirable homes continue to sell fast. The Town of Dan- continue to strengthen and at $394 per square foot and at $1,309,464 averville leads the way with a mere 28 days-on-market followed by Blackhawk age selling price, Blackhawk is doing well and will continue to advance. Due to sunny weather, the selling season is off to an early start this year and with 49 and Alamo with 60. Diablo has performed significantly worse it seems like every agent I know, including myself has at least one prospecon this measure at 188 days on market, but when you consider the prices paid for the Diablo homes the time difference can’t be considered bad. tive buyer in tow looking for a nicely updated home in our area. Inventory Of note is that the average size of homes sold in each of the areas has increased levels remain at a critically low level with less than three months supply and significantly since the market bottom in 2011. The average for Alamo is up nearly there are so few properties available that the really good homes are attracting 500 sq. ft. since then. This is an indication that larger homes are now selling rou- multiple offers. I had more than 20 buyers through an open house this weektinely. Also important to note is with an average price of $1,461,294 Alamo home end and it looks like I am about to receive an offer on another of our listings. It’s important to remember that there really is no “average” home and no two sales have surpassed their 2005 level. With only two distressed sales in the past six months, I think an argument can be made that Alamo Real Estate has recovered. homes are exactly alike. If you would like an honest no strings attached opinion of your In 2006 Danville crossed the million dollar average line and held on to 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. it for the next two years. Since 2009 Danville fell well below this Home Sales Alamo, Blackhawk Danville, Diablo (Oct.1-Jan 27) level dropping as low as $784,000 on average. During the past six Active Pending Sold DOM List Price Sold Price Sq. Foot $ Sq. Foot months, Danville Real Estate sales have soared and at this writAlamo 31 19 45 60 $ 1,491,845 $ 1,461,294 3,336 $ 438 ing are higher by about $10,000 more than they were at the peak in Blackhawk 17 5 36 49 $ 1,345,833 $ 1,309,464 3,323 $ 394 2006. At $414 per square foot, Danville prices are gaining ground Diablo 5 1 3 188 $ 2,564,333 $ 2,391,333 4,046 $ 591 Danville 39 47 146 28 $ 1,115,603 $ 1,124,735 2,716 $ 414 on Alamo prices. It’s important to note that Danville has the high-
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Data presented in this column is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Contra Costa and Alameda MLS service and other quoted sources. Joe Combs, Nancy Combs, The Combs Team, J. Rockcliff and the MLS service do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. DRE #0144125.
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