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FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 1
FEBRUARY 2017
LETTERS FROM THE HEART: AMERICA’S WARS FROM A PERSONAL PERSPECTIVE
By Jody Morgan
From January 29-April 9, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley focuses on the impact of war on individuals – soldiers separated from their loved-ones, loved-ones longing for news and fearful of the news they will receive, and non-combatants caught in the crossfire. Uniforms, love-tokens and personal items loaned from both
BAY AREA GERMAN SHEPHERD RESCUE
By Fran Miller
No one would deny that German Shepherd puppies are some of the cutest among all dog breeds, making them a popular pet choice. But these cute puppies grow into large and extremely intelligent dogs who require consistent mental stimulation and physical exercise. This high level of necessary care often takes German Shepherd owners by surprise, and they sometimes find themselves unequipped to handle their pets. This is one reason that German Shepherds are second only to pit bulls in dog shelter populations, and it’s also the reason for the existence of Bay Area German Shepherd Rescue (BAGSR). “German Shepherds don’t mature until age three,” explains Alamo resident Susan Hsu, director of fundraising for BAGSR. “German Shepherd owners don’t really get to know their dog’s personality for awhile, and if proper training does not take place, a large dog can quickly get out of hand.”
See SHEPHERD continued on page 24
SAVE MOUNT DIABLO’S NEW FREE PUBLIC HIKE SERIES PROGRAM
Steven Burchik (C) shows his latest book to Bill Green (L), President of VNVDV and John Schafgan (R), VNVDV Director following a January talk for the VNVDV. photo courtesy of Steven Burchik
private and public collections add local interest to the traveling exhibit forming the core of the presentation, War Comes Home: The Legacy. Letters chronicle the concerns of individuals involved in all of America’s wars from the Civil War to the present. Many of Contra Costa County’s veterans’ organizations have contributed to creating an exhibit so comprehensive it extends to displays at the Veterans’ Memorial Building as well as the Museum. A series of free programs brings home the personal cost of war from a variety of perspectives. San Ramon resident Steven Burchik’s photographs immediately immerse visitors in the daily duties of an infantryman serving in Vietnam 1968-69. While many other servicemen brought basic point-and-shoot cameras with them, Burchik took time to practice with his new Kodak Retina S1, a 35mm camera, before deployment. In Compass and a Camera: A Year in Vietnam, he writes: “I felt that this would be one of the most unique experiences of my life, and I wanted to capture as much as possible without endangering myself or others.” Eight themes organize the display entitled “An Ordinary Year, An Extraordinary Time”: River Patrols, Children, Villagers, Aerial Views, Helicopters, Patrols and Medevac, Nighttime Pyrotechnics, and Rice Harvest. Burchik never filmed a combat mission, but he perfected capturing routine patrols and interaction with villagers as well as off-duty moments. His first camera took a dive into a river, and the second, although later repaired, also got soaked.
See LETTERS continued on page 16
Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA
ECRWSS
Discover Diablo is Save Mount Diablo’s (SMD) new free public hike series, offering an annual schedule of guided walks, hikes, and interpretive tours open to any and all trail blazers. Generously spon-
Hikers enjoy the trails on Save Mount Diablo’s Four Days Diablo Group Camping Trip, a 30-mile trek along the Diablo Trail over 4 day leading you on an adventure through rarely seen Mount Diablo landscapes. Photo by: Scott Hein, Save Mount Diablo Board President.
sored by the Shell Martinez Refinery, the Discover Diablo Free Public Hike Series will launch in early 2017. Discover Diablo will offer two events per month for the entire year – one taking place and focusing on a SMD property and one designed for families in other public parks. Hosted by SMD, the new Discover Diablo program seeks to build awareness
See HIKE cont. on page 6
Volume VIII - Number 4 3000F Danville Blvd. #117, Alamo, CA 94507 (925) 405-6397 Fax (925) 406-0547 Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher editor@ yourmonthlypaper.com The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do not necessarily reflect that of Danville Today News. Danville Today News is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.
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PAGE 2 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
POKER NIGHT FUNDRAISER
Join Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services at their Texas Hold ‘Em Fundraiser. The evening will be held at the Danville Grange located at 732 Diablo Rd. in Danville on Saturday, February 25th from 6-11pm. The cost is $85 per person and includes buy-in, a full BBQ dinner from Andy’s BBQ, and one drink ticket. No poker experience is needed! The event is for ages 21 and up. To purchase tickets visit www.mowsos.org/event/poker or call 925-2392487. Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services are non-profit 501(c) (3) organizations (IRS#68-0044205).
BYE, BYE, BIRDIE
Bring the whole family to see the classic musical Bye, Bye, Birdie at the Danville Village Theatre on Fridays, Saturday, February 24-March 5. The non-profit, youth theatre company, I Can Do That, promises to have you singing and dancing in your seats! Visit www.ICanDoThatTheatre. com for more information about the show and joining our upcoming cast of Little Shop of Horrors! DANVILLE WOMEN’S CLUB th Please join the Danville Women’s Club on Thursday, February 16 for their monthly lunch, and enjoy the speaker, Denise Clark, who will be discussing heart health. Denise has survived nine auto-immune diseases as well as coronary artery disease, and she wants to pass along her discoveries on not only how she beat these diseases but how you can do the same. Denise is an energetic and informed speaker as well as a member of the Club. Socializing begins at 11AM, lunch is served at 11:30AM, and the speaker will begin her talk at noon. Please contact Karen at (925) 831-9237 or e-mail danvillewc@gmail.com to sign up for this event (free for first-timers!). The Club’s very popular Scholarship Bridge Luncheon Fundraiser will be held at the club on Thursday, February 23rd. This event is always very well attended. A table is $80 (or $20 per person). Socializing will begin at 11:30AM followed by lunch and Bridge playing. Men are welcome to play, and you are not limited to playing only Bridge. How about getting three friends to pay Hearts with you? Or Spades? To reserve a table or two, or for more information, please contact Mary at (925) 837-3860 or e-mail danvillewc@gmail.com. Valentine’s Dinner & Movie Proceeds will benefit the “Patty Hart Memorial Scholarship Fund” for high school seniors. at San Damiano The Danville Women’s Club is located at 242 Linda Mesa Avenue in Danville, and both of these Sunday, February 12th, 5:00 PM functions will take place there. Members look forward to meeting you and encourage you to also 710 Highland Drive, Danville, CA visit the Club’s website at www.danvillewomensclub.org. $50 per person
Celebrate Life and Love Movie: French Kiss
HOST FAMILIES SOUGHT FOR TWO WEEK STAY BY VISITING FRENCH STUDENTS
For the twelfth consecutive year, students from a large high school in the south of France are coming to the Bay Area. Every visit by the students has been better than the last. The students will arrive on April 1st and depart April 16th. 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 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 dachary.martine@orange.fr. There are many happy local host families ready to discuss any questions with you (including 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.
Purchase Tickets
sandamiano.org | (925) 837-9141
A Home Improvement Show for the East Bay!
ROLE PLAYERS PRESENTS THE PIANO LESSON
The Role Players Ensemble presents The Piano Lesson by August Wilson and directed by Eric Fraisher Hayes from February 3 – 19 at The Village Theatre, located at 233 Front Street in Danville. Friday and Saturday shows will be held at 8PM, and Sunday shows will be held at 2PM. There is a showdown happening over the family piano. For Boy Willie, selling the piano could mean a new start in life. For his sister Berniece, the piano embodies the story of her family, and selling it would be like selling the family’s soul. The Piano Lesson sheds light on a struggle the African-American community has with its painful past and leads us to ask questions about identity, the value of family, and how our histories shape our choices and our lives. Tickets are $20-28 and can be purchased online at www.RolePlayersEnsemble.com; at Danville Community Center, 420 Front St, Danville; or by calling (925) 314-3400.
Sunday, February 12, 2017 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Danville Community Center 420 Front Street, Danville
FREE ADMISSION Presented By
Media Sponsors
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FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 3
JARED HIGGINS TEAM
Danville Home Sales List Sq. Ft.Bed/Bath Bed/Bath $/SqFt DOM DOM Danville Home Sales LPPrice Sales SqFt Sale $/SqF DOM Danville Home Sales LP SP SPPrice SqFt Bed/Bath Sale $/SqF 1772 CAMINO RAMON $898,000 $870,000 1902 4/2.5 $457 1772 CAMINO RAMON $898,000 $870,000 1902 4/2.5 $457 38 38 701 OAKMONT CT $900,000 $885,000 $885,0002137 21374/2.5 4/2.5 $414 $414 6 6 701 OAKMONT CT $900,000 195 GARDNER PL $929,900 $960,000 $960,0002486 24863/2.5 3/2.5 $386 $386 14 14 195 GARDNER PL $929,900 185 GIL BLAS RD $979,000 $979,000 1546 3/2 $633 47 47 185 GIL BLAS RD $979,000 $979,000 1546 3/2 $633 178 JOAQUIN CIR $989,950$1,015,000 $1,015,0002482 2482 4/34/3 $409 $409 23 23 178 JOAQUIN CIR $989,950 785 GLASGOW CIR $1,029,950$1,010,000 $1,010,0002600 26004/2.5 4/2.5 $388 $388 69 69 785 GLASGOW CIR $1,029,950 118 BALDWIN DR $1,049,000$1,049,000 $1,049,0002251 22514/2.5 4/2.5 $466 $466 62 62 118 BALDWIN DR $1,049,000 412 VEDA DR $1,050,000$1,100,000 $1,100,0001043 1043 3/13/1 $1,055 $1,055 0 0 412 VEDA DR $1,050,000 481 CLIPPER HILL RD $1,149,900 $1,149,900$1,115,000 $1,115,0001910 19104/2.5 4/2.5 $584 $584 113113 481 CLIPPER HILL RD 352 PARAISO DR $1,150,000$1,130,000 $1,130,0002811 2811 4/34/3 $402 $402 130130 352 PARAISO DR $1,150,000 180 SAN THOMAS WAY $1,180,000 $1,180,000$1,178,000 $1,178,0001953 1953 3/23/2 $603 $603 7 7 180 SAN THOMAS WAY 785 HIGHBRIDGE LN $1,199,000$1,190,000 $1,190,0002344 23444/3.5 4/3.5 $508 $508 49 49 785 HIGHBRIDGE LN $1,199,000 54 ROCKPORT CT $1,199,950$1,210,000 $1,210,0003172 31725/2.5 5/2.5 $381 $381 56 56 54 ROCKPORT CT $1,199,950 36 SHELLY PL $1,268,000$1,230,000 $1,230,0002228 22284/2.5 4/2.5 $552 $552 45 45 36 SHELLY PL $1,268,000 550 FERNCROFT CT $1,299,900$1,300,000 $1,300,0002858 2858 4/34/3 $455 $455 16 16 550 FERNCROFT CT $1,299,900 813 HIGHBRIDGE LN $1,300,000$1,240,000 $1,240,0002391 23914/2.5 4/2.5 $519 $519 10 10 813 HIGHBRIDGE LN $1,300,000 964 RICHARD LN $1,388,800$1,369,000 $1,369,0002946 2946 5/35/3 $465 $465 0 0 964 RICHARD LN $1,388,800 318 MONTOYA WAY $1,449,800 $1,449,800$1,430,000 $1,430,0003871 38715/4.5 5/4.5 $369 $369 242242 318 MONTOYA WAY 1069 WESTRIDGE AVE $1,599,000 $1,599,000$1,550,000 $1,550,0003469 3469 4/34/3 $447 $447 40 40 1069 WESTRIDGE AVE 2441 TASSAJARA LN $1,725,000 $1,725,000$1,720,000 $1,720,0003548 3548 5/35/3 $485 $485 14 14 2441 TASSAJARA LN 364 CLIFFSIDE DR $1,999,000$2,005,000 $2,005,0005050 50505/4.5 5/4.5 $397 $397 102102 364 CLIFFSIDE DR $1,999,000 610 OBRIEN DR $2,389,900$2,389,900 $2,389,9005071 50715/5.5 5/5.5 $471 $471 63 63 610 OBRIEN DR $2,389,900
Danville’s Real Estate Expert Danville Today News ~ August 2013 - Page 3
Inventory is extremely low.
Sell now before spring inventory is released. Contact me to sell your home for top dollar.
Jared Higgins (925) 487-2907
jhiggins@rockcliff.com JaredHiggins.com BRE# 01781054
Danville 94526 home sales per MLS 12/20/16 - 1/2017. DOM=Days on Market.
BOULEVARD VIEW
By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
My friend Angela went in to talk to her daughter’s 4th grade school reading specialist whom she had known for many years. The reading teacher, Jennifer, asked about the book Angela’s daughter was reading, and Angela answered, “The one my mom bought from the library in Cusick (a small town in north east Washington).” The reading teacher responded, “Cusick? I went to Girl Scout camp in Cusick.” Angela responded that she had been a camp counselor at the camp. As the story unraveled, it was found that Angela had been Jennifer’s own camp counselor some 36 years prior! As Angela (whom I met at the same camp) relayed the story to me, I found I knew Jennifer as well as she was one of the campers that traveled with me on a two week covered wagon/horseback trip I helped to lead along logging roads throughout northeast Washington and northwestern Idaho in 1981. While I had been loosely involved in Girl Scouts during my high school years, I thoroughly enjoyed taking part in the “sleep-away camp” experience. With the camp name of “Sierra,” I literally “learned the ropes” of being a counselor during my month-long stay at Deer Lake Camp near Soda Springs, California. Sleeping in a hand-lashed tree-bed under the stars was a great way to spend my summer making friends, cooking over a fire, earning my lifesaving certificate, hiking, sailing, rock climbing, and learning silly camp songs that I can recite to this day. I often say it was the best job I ever had. Through my long-term project of scanning the majority of my photographs, I searched for and found a set of pictures of Jennifer as a young woman and of our wagon trip adventure at Kings Lake Camp near Cusick, Washington, where I had met her. With the power of internet and email, I was able to share the photos with her, reignite memories from the wonderful journey, and rekindle a connection. Upon seeing the pictures, Jennifer wrote me, “What a flood of emotion. I can hardly believe I am seeing these
pictures that have almost been forgotten to my visual memory but engrained on my heart. I recently read Wild by Cheryl Strange. She hiked the Pacific Crest Trail. They talked a lot about the Sierras, so I have been thinking of you lately; how AMAZING for me to find you!” What struck me was that after all the years had passed was that both Angela and I had struck a chord and made lifelong impressions on Jennifer even though our interactions had involved just a couple weeks of her youth. Jennifer remembered the Winnie the Pooh parties that Angela led, and a moment her horse balked going up a steep hill as she and I searched for a wayward horse. It was heartwarming to hear that our leadership as counselors made a difference. As we sit under rainy skies, it is time to think forward to the long, warm, days of summer. If you have the chance to send your kids to a get-dirty, hands-on camp away from technology, do. For those of us adults who still long for the camp experience a few programs have cropped up to recreate the experience for us as well. While I have no connection with them, Camp No Counselors (www.campnocounselors.com) which offers sports, crafts, and a host of other “classic camp activities” might just be on the bucket-list this summer!
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PAGE 4 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
SONS IN RETIREMENT SAN RAMON VALLEY
Are you looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining Sons in Retirement San Ramon Valley Branch 128. The group has monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. Additionally, members have lots of fun participating in a variety of activities such as golf, tennis, bowling, bocce ball, movies, bridge, reading, computers, and much more. Many other activities such as travel, dine outs, excursions, baseball games and holiday parties include spouses, friends, and guests. The next luncheon will be held on Wednesday, February 15 at 11AM. The guest speaker will be director/actor Eric Fraisher Hayes, currently in his seventh season as the Artistic Director for the highly successful Role Players Ensemble in Danville. Mr. Hayes will focus his talk on Eugene O’Neill, the man who changed the face of American theater and lived quietly in the hills above Danville. Your $25 cost includes luncheon, guest speaker, and a great opportunity to socialize with at least 150 other retirees from the San Ramon Valley. To reserve a space, please email by Thursday, February 9th to info@SIR128.com. The group’s new meeting location is The Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Rd in San Ramon. For more information about this retirement branch and activities, please visit www.SIR128.com.
2017 AAUW HOLIDAY HOME TOUR
Would you like to share your home on next year’s Holiday Home Tour? The Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is looking for homes for their 2017 Holiday Home Tour on Friday, December 8 and Saturday, December 9, 2017. If you are interested in sharing your home decorated in its holiday finest or you have a friend who would be interested, e-mail aauwhht@gmail. com as soon as possible. Proceeds from this tour provide summer camperships for 12 middle school girls to STEM week at Sonoma State University and scholarships to women in the Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek area.
KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY
The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch every Thursday at noon in Danville at Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon (corner Sycamore). The Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville and many other exciting events. The Club has an interesting and informative weekly program speaker and specializes in fun and entertaining camaraderie. There is no charge for a guest lunch (up to 3x). For more information, call John Lineweaver at (925) 272-8207, email info@srvkiwanis.org, or visit www.srvkiwanis.org.
ADAS PRESENTS BRILLIANCE
The Alamo Danville Artists’ Society (ADAS) will host the opening of Blackhawk Gallery’s new Exhibit ‘Brilliance.’ A Gala Reception will be held on Saturday, February 11 from 5 to 7PM with wine and hors d’oeuvres. The exhibit will be on view seven days a week from February 10 to April 23. The reception and exhibit are free and open to the public. The ‘Brilliance’ exhibit features 41 member artists and guest artist Natasha Foucault who will be showing her hand-painted silk art. Members’ artworks include paintings, drawings, sculptures, ceramics, photographs, and wearable art. Blackhawk Gallery is located at 3416 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville in the Blackhawk Plaza. The telephone number is (925) 648-8023. Gallery hours are Monday-Saturday from 10AM-8PM and Sunday from 11AM-6PM. Holiday hours Presidens’ Day on February 20 are from 10AM-5PM. To learn more, visit www.BlackhawkGallery.org or https://www. facebook.com/AlamoDanvilleArtistsSociety, or contact Blackhawk Gallery Director Kerima Swain at swain.kerima@gmail.com.
NEWCOMERS WELCOME COFFEE
Are you new to the area or a long time resident, newly retired, or an empty nester interested in making new friends and participating in various social activities? The Alamo-Danville Newcomers Club is a women’s organization whose purpose is to enrich the lives of all its members and their families in a social manner. Check out all the club has to offer by visiting www.alamodanvillenewcomers.com. The next free new member coffee will be held on February 28 from 10AM to noon. RSVP to alamodanvillenewcomers@gmail.com.
KIWANIS CRAB FEED
The Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley will be holding its annual Crab Feed as a fund-raiser at the Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Rd, Danville on Friday, February 17th at 6pm. The cost for tickets purchased in advance is $50 per adult, $25 for children aged 12-16, and free for children under are 12. Tickets purchased at the door are $60 and $35, with children under 12 free. A raffle and cash bar will also be held. To pre-purchase tickets, visit www.srvkiwanis.org. The Kiwanis Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville, conducts an annual Grants Program for area non-profits, undertakes Community Service Projects in the Tri-Valley area, as well as holds an annual Food Drive for the Contra Costa Food Bank.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO PROVIDE WARM CLOTHING TO THOSE WITHOUT SHELTER
There is a wonderful opportunity to volunteer to make sure that homeless people in our county don’t suffer from the winter cold. White Pony Express (WPE), a nonprofit based in Pleasant Hill, has launched its Cold Weather Clothing Program (CWCP) for this winter. This program has already distributed 4,000 items of new or like-new clothing—coats, pants, shirts, socks, hats, gloves, scarves, underwear, and boots—given to people without shelter. Your help is needed to continue this vital program throughout the winter. The Cold Weather Clothing Program originated last winter when two homeless men, John Dulik and Todd Cambra, died from exposure in Walnut Creek. It was that sad situation that spurred our founder, Dr. Carol Weyland Conner, to ask that warm clothing be procured and provided to the homeless to enable them to endure cold winter nights. So now it is a WPE tradition. Come and make a difference! Everyday WPE provides between 5,000 and 6,000 pounds of food to those in need in Contra Costa County (seven days a week), as well as distributing about 12,000 articles of new and like-new clothing, toys, and books per month. Interested volunteers should contact Mandy Nakaya at 925-818-6361, email her at mandy@whiteponyexpress.org or visit www.whiteponyexpress. org/volunteer/. For more on WPE, go to www.whiteponyexpress.org.
SCOTTISH COUNTRY DANCING
Come dance every Thursday evening, year-round. No partner is required and no Scottish ancestry is needed. This dancing is aerobic and very sociable. Adult beginners are welcome anytime. Classes take place each week at 8PM. More experienced dancers also begin at 8PM in a separate class. All classes are held at the Danville Grange, located at 743 Diablo Road in Danville. All dance nights are drop-in. The first beginner lesson is free; afterwards the cost is $8/night or $6/night if attending a 10-week session paid in advance. Call Witsie at (925) 676-3637 or Kathleen at (925) 934-6148 for more information. Classes for youth are also offered at a different location; please call Kathleen for dates and fees.
ACTION POOL REPAIR
Serving Alamo & Danville Since 1979!
925.820.3640 www.actionpoolrepair.com Contractor Lic# 978033-C53
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FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 5
ANOTHER LUXURY PROPERTY PRESENTED BY CAROLYN GWYNN
CAROLYN GWYNN Realtor®
| 925.336.7525
carolyn@thegwynngroup.com www.carolyngwynn.com
145 CAMINO ENCANTO, DANVILLE
Stunning, one level, approx. 1900sf home on coveted street. Tastefully remodeled throughout. Gourmet island kitchen, elegant remodeled baths, hardwood floors, two master suites, newer doors and hardware, raised ceilings. The gorgeous back yard includes pool, patios, trellis and lawn area. Close to Iron Horse Trail, downtown Danville and Del Amigo Pool. Contact Carolyn for details about this property or if you’d like to meet to discuss your own real estate plans. PRICE UPON REQUEST
SRVRWF PRESENTS DEBBIE BACIGALUPI
The San Ramon Valley Republican Women Federated (SRVRWF) presents Debbie Bacigalupi. Debbie is a sixth generation Californian and is currently a cattle rancher in Northern California. She is a tireless fighter for property rights, water rights, and elimination of draconian business regulations. As she has written, “California was once the world’s fifth largest economy. In just a few years we’ve dropped to ninth, losing businesses and jobs along the way.” Debbie is passionate about the need to have strong leadership in Sacramento to stem the tide of overregulation that is strangling the business community. As a businesswoman, Debbie understands the need for fiscal responsibility. Come and be inspired by Debbie’s passionate presentation on the problems with California and what she feels can be done to get the state back on top. The presentation will be held Tuesday, February 28th at Crow Canyon Country Club, located at 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Social time begins at 11:30AM, and lunch and program begin at noon. The cost is $27 per person. Family, friends, and students are cordially invited. Reservations can be made online at www.srvrwf.org or by calling 925-820-0774.
SAN RAMON VALLEY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
The San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society invites you to attend their monthly meeting on Tuesday, February 21st at 10am at the Danville History Center of the LDS Church located at 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. The program will be on Irish and Scottish Genealogy by Cath Trindle. For more information, visit www.srvgensoc.org.
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BLACKHAWK REPUBLICAN WOMEN PRESENT COMMANDER JOHN “J.R.” HATTEN
The Blackhawk Republican Women invite you to an evening with Commander John “J.R.” Hatten, U.S. Navy, retired speaking on Homeland Security - What is our country doing to protect the U.S. from terrorist threats? The event will take place on Thursday, February 9th at the Blackhawk Country Club, Grille Room. Everyone is welcome. Check-in and a social with hors d’oeuvres and no-host bar will begin at 5:30PM followed by the speaker at 6PM. The cost is $25. Commander Hatten retired from the U.S. Navy in 2002 as a combat-experienced naval aviator with over 3,000 hours of flight time. He is a graduate of the U.S. Navy Fighter Weapon School (TOPGUN). As founder and President of Tamarack Technologies, a defense contracting organization, he serves as a consultant to the U.S. Navy as the Physical Security and Access Control Technology Insertion Team lead for the Commander, United States Navy Installations Command. In this position, he is directly responsible for identification and recommended procurement of new and innovative technologies which will provide maximum security protection to U.S. Navy installations and personnel around the world. Come hear an insider’s view on the defense industry and what the U.S. government is doing overseas to protect the country from terrorist threats. Please make your reservations by e-mailing or calling Jane Parish at janeparish@sbcglobal.net or (925) 216-6663, then mailing a check made payable to “Blackhawk Republican Women” to her at 366 Jacaranda Drive, Danville 94506-2125, to arrive by Tuesday, February 7th.
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PAGE 6 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
HIKE CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
of local land conservation efforts and to convey the importance of protecting open space for habitat and recreation. With the launch of Discover Diablo, the group intends to reach new audiences; build their membership base of adventurers, explorers, and outdoor enthusiasts; and spark a passion for the Diablo Range. You are invited to join in exploring the Bay Area’s beautiful wild lands and open spaces. It is hoped that with two events per month in various locations, there will be something for everyone to enjoy and learn from. SMD’s Family walks are for hikers of all skill levels and will take place on other portions of open space on and around the mountain. SMD’s Property tours will illustrate the importance of preserving wildlife habitat, building corridors between existing parks, and of course, enjoying all the beauty that the Diablo Range has to offer. To honor SMD’s mission, the group aims to display both our current property holdings as well as those they have helped protect over the years. Hosting monthly hikes is an effective way to engage and grow communities invested in the sustainability of local open space. SMD properties aren’t usually open to the public, so these are rare opportunities. To complete the land conservation picture in the Diablo Range and pay homage to collaborating agencies, the group will also host monthly outings on Mount Diablo State Park, East Bay Regional Park District, and Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation lands. SMD’s new hike series, Discover Diablo, ties these outings together by offering an annual schedule of free public hikes to explore these diverse lands - with the added bonus of being guided by staff and experienced volunteer hike leaders. According to Ted Clement, Executive Director of SMD, “It is the goal of the Discover Diablo program to build connections between people and land, helping communities develop a strong sense of place and a deepened appreciation for our collective backyard. Most importantly, we want to cultivate a love of the land in participants - so as to grow the land ethic and stewardship for our precious Mount Diablo area.” There is something for everyone to discover in the nooks and crannies surrounding Mount Diablo. Please join SMD on the trails to find your own individual inspiration! Visit Eventbrite to see the full schedule of upcoming hikes: Discover-Diablo.eventbrite.com. RSVP required. Save Mount Diablo is a nationally accredited, non-profit land trust founded in 1971 with a mission to preserve Mount Diablo’s peaks, surrounding foothills, and watersheds through land acquisition and preservation strategies designed to protect the mountain’s natural beauty, biological diversity, and historic and agricultural heritage; enhance our area’s quality of life; and provide recreational opportunities consistent with the protection of natural resources. To learn more and support Save Mount Diablo, please visit www.savemountdiablo.org.
C L A S S I F I E D COMPUTER HELP
ITkid Computer Help Assistance with any tech related issue for a low price. Help with Email•Wifi•Computer•Smartphone•Tablet•Etc. $40/hr. Contact Max Nunan, local ITkid consultant. (925) 482-5488, maxnunan@gmail.com
FOR RENT BIG ISLAND HAWAII - Luxurious 5 bedroom, 5 ½ bath home with pool and spa in Mauna Lani, Champion Ridge. Access to private beach, 2 golf courses, shopping, restaurants, and many other amenities. Rent by the week. Call 925586-8893 or reserve on VRBO listing #630743.
Danville Today Classifieds
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TAX TALK WITH BOB
By Bob Shalon, IRS Enrolled Agent, H&R Block
I hope everyone is staying dry or out enjoying the rain. Last month I said I would discuss IRS audit letters and how the Walnut Creek IRS office has been processing them.
EMPLOYEE BUSINESS EXPENSES
◦ If you are entitled to auto expense reimbursement, you can choose between actual expenses or mileage costs. ◦ If you lease your vehicle, you can deduct your payment but not take mileage. ◦ If you take mileage, the rate is .54 for 2016, and the IRS will want to know the following: ▪ Your company’s written expense policy. ▪ Daily calendar showing who you saw, what you discussed, and the cost. ▪ Your first appointment leaving home and last appointment returning home are considered commute. Mark it carefully, or IRS will do it for you. ▪ Finally, odometer readings. Save them when you change your oil. ◦ Client lunches and entertainment are deductible. However, make sure that your documentation is thorough. You will be asked if the expense was necessary or just a nice thing to do.
MEDICAL EXPENSES
◦ Premium costs are deductible. Many of us have medical coverage through our employer, but usually they do not pay all of the cost, and you have payroll deductions for your share. Payroll medical contributions are deductible, and you can find the amount on your check stub on payday. Many times this is missed. ◦ Prescription medication is deductible. The major pharmacies can give you an annual summary of your costs for medications, which is perfect as a support document. Your insurance companies can also provide what you need. ◦ Do not just have point-of-sale receipts, even from a pharmacy. The IRS will disallow the since they cannot tell exactly what you bought.
DEPENDENTS
◦ Due to increased fraud, the IRS wants to see school records Bob Shalon, EA if you are audited. Master Tax Advisor • Enrolled Agent As annoying as this sounds, remember 925.820.9570 Social Security cards 718 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Danville can be stolen but not Sycamore Square (next to Lucky’s) bob.shalon@tax.hrblock.com school records. There are many other areas that can be examined, but these are the areas I saw the most of this summer. I am always available to explain IRS letters, even if you are not a client. The old theory of bombarding IRS with huge amounts of paperwork does not work anymore. More on this area next month. 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., Advertorial Danville with any questions.
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
Kim Clutts is our winner!
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FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 7
ALAMO- LAFAYETTE CEMETERY DISTRICT
By Supervisor Candace Andersen Contra Costa County, District 2
People are often surprised to learn that I like cemeteries. Not only are they a peaceful place for surviving friends and family members to honor and reflect upon the life of a deceased loved one, but they also provide an interesting glimpse into the history of our communities. The California Legislature authorized the creation of public cemetery districts in 1909. At that time, public cemetery districts assumed the responsibility for ownership, improvement, expansion, and the operation of many cemeteries within their given boundaries. Public cemetery services in Contra Costa County are provided by the Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District and the Byron-Brentwood-Knightsen Union Cemetery District. These are independent special districts responsible for operating, maintaining, improving, and expanding the cemeteries within their district bounds. They are governed by an appointed Board of Trustees and supported by tax dollars. Approximately .06% of 1% of each property tax dollar goes to the district. Property taxes make up approximately 65% of total revenues received by the district. The rest comes from donations and fees for services rendered. My district, Contra Costa County District 2, is home to the Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District. It was formed into a California Special District in 1937 and operates and maintains two cemeteries, the Alamo Cemetery located at 130 El Portal in Danville and the Lafayette Cemetery at 3285 Mt. Diablo Blvd in Lafayette. Both were cemeteries established by pioneer families. The Lafayette Cemetery’s first burial was 1854 and the Alamo Cemetery’s was 1856. Only a person living in the tax district may be buried in these cemeteries, and remaining spaces are limited. In special cases, the law does allow an exception to the residence stipulation, and persons who are related to but who do not reside in or pay property taxes within the district may be buried in the district’s cemeteries. In this case a Non-Residents Fee is charged in addition to cemetery charges. Non-residents eligible for interment are described in California Health and Safety Code §9061, and they include former residents, current and former taxpayers, family members of residents and former residents, family members of those already buried in the cemetery, those without other cemetery alternatives within 15 miles of their residence, and those who died while serving in the military. The boundaries of Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District include portions of various incorporated areas, including the southwestern portion of the City of Walnut Creek, the majority of the City of Lafayette and the Town of Danville, the eastern portion of the City of San Ramon, and the unincorporated communities of Alamo, Blackhawk, Diablo, and a portion of the unincorporated community of Walden (an area of Contra Costa Centre north of Walnut Creek). The District has a boundary area of approximately 84 square miles and serves a population of approximately 162,700. The County Board of Supervisors appoints the Board of Trustees that govern the cemetery districts for a fixed four-year term. The Alamo-Lafayette District has three Trustees who oversee the maintenance and operation of the District: Nancy J. Flood, Carolyn Thiessen, and Mary McCosker. More information about the board, their meetings, and the two cemeteries can be found at www.alamolafayettecemetery.org. Both cemeteries are open from sunup to sundown every day of the year. Wandering through the cemeteries is a great way to connect with the history of the Lamorinda and San Ramon Valley communities. Many families, whose names now appear on streets, schools, and civic buildings, are buried there. Each spring and fall the Museum of the San Ramon Valley offers guided tours of the Alamo cemetery. More information about these tours can be found at www. museumsrv.org. The Lafayette Historical Society also offers tours of the Lafayette cemetery, and they have on their website, www.lafayettehistory.org, a video tour as well. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us or 925-957-8860.
FREE TAX PREPARATION
Free tax preparation for the 2017 tax season is available from AARP’s Tax-Aide and United Way’s Earn It, Keep It, Save It (EKS) programs. All tax preparers are trained and certified by the IRS. 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. 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 - San Ramon Senior Center site or (925) 480-7202 for the Danville - Veterans Memorial Bldg of SRV site. For general information and other site locations, call (925) 726-3199. For information on EKS sites, call 2-1-1 or visit www.earnitkeepitsaveit.org.
PAGE 8 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
SOLAR CURRENTS FORWARD, OR BACKWARD? By Mark Becker, GoSimple Solar
As we move into the next four years of our new President’s term, there are both nervous and cautiously optimistic energy leaders around our nation and our world. Alternative energy has proven to be a non-partisan issue, and citizens throughout the political spectrum hope that the clean energy revolution will continue on its current path. In terms of energy production, the world IS changing. Having multiple options of energy providers in the free marketplace will always be good for consumers, good for job growth, good for our economy, and especially good for domestic security. Sourcing energy domestically, from all energy sources, reduces the negative petro-politics associated with imported oil. American sourced energy is homeland security.
2016 SOLAR MILESTONES
Solar projects in California now number over 500,000. Solar growth in PGE territory in 2016 outpaced all other years. Reason: Electric costs keep rising, and the installation cost of solar PV, although mostly stabilized, continues to slowly decline. These elements make for a greater return on investment (ROI) on solar PV. There’s plenty of room left for solar growth in our utility grid. Solar PV generates just 5% of all energy production in PGE territory. California Net Metering 2.0 has become active: A big win for the solar consumer, Net Metering 2.0 allows a solar customer to continue to arbitrage utility rates, at PGE costs, for the next 20 years. PGE lost the battle to excessively limit payments to solar customers for the excess energy we generate. Solar PV reduces the amount of electricity PGE has to generate, and PGE, through Net Metering, is allowed to resell this excess electricity generated by solar. Properly managed, the solar and utility relationship is a win-win for both the utility and the electric ratepayer. Energy storage is gaining traction: Energy storage (traditionally batteries) can serve different purposes. It can be used as an emergency back-up power source
SHARE THE LOVE
By Cynthia Ruzzi, Sustainable Danville Area
I can’t say I’m much for Valentine’s Day, at least not since the days of making hand-made cards in school for mom and dad – and the boy across the aisle. However, in a winter that has been this trying and stressing us in so many ways, it’s time to share a little love. I’m not talking about the kind of love that comes from a heart-shaped cardboard box – I’m talking serious, thoughtful effort for those you love and for those that need your love. I encourage you to embrace ideals from movements like “Pass it Forward,” “Random Act of Kindness,” “One Warm Coat,” and the “Free Hugs Project.” Locally, I am inspired by individuals like Amelia and Heidi Abramson and their small band of volunteers that run The Bounty Garden https://thebountygarden. wordpress.com, teaching others in Hap Magee Park to grow organic vegetables that are donated to local food banks. I am also inspired by Anna Chan, aka “The Lemon Lady” (http://thelemonlady.blogspot.com), who walking her toddler saw lemons going to waste on a neighbor’s tree and started a foundation to collect such fruit for those in need. I’ve also been inspired by Siamack Sioshansi, founder of The Urban Farmers, who has helped neighbors, schools, and spiritual groups coordinate fruit harvests from here to Solano, welcoming everyone through their online calendar (www.eventbrite.com/o/the-urban-farmers-2938749247). Do you have too many things going on to commit to a Valentine’s Day coordinated effort? How about trying something spontaneous and delicious? How ‘bout random deliveries of packaged goodies to a few of your neighbors? Here’s a simple recipe for homemade granola bars that may find their way to your doorstep on February 14th.
DARK CHOCOLATE – COCONUT GRANOLA BARS
Makes about 20 - 2 inch squares (Choose organic ingredients if you can) • 2 cups rolled oats • ½ cup Raisins • 1 teaspoon vanilla • ½ cup coconut oil • ¾ cup smashed pecans or almonds • ½ teaspoon coarse sea salt • 1 cup coconut flakes • 1/3 cup agave • 1 teaspoon cinnamon
www.yourmonthlypaper.com for critical equipment such as medical devices, or it can be programmed to “Peak Shave” (reduce) high cost power import from PGE at certain times of the day with or without an accompanying solar PV system. Indeed, if your home or business is severely shaded, or your business simply needs to reduce the dreaded PGE “Demand Charges,” these simple devices may provide you with some very good ROI. The Federal Tax Credit for solar PV, which was due to expire on January 1st, was extended for another five years through a bipartisan effort in Congress. This tax credit from the federal government covers 30% of the cost of a solar PV system, as well as any associated roofing costs that are borne when installing solar PV. Employment: Over 40,000 new jobs were added to the solar and energy efficiency sector. Many of these jobs were filled by returning military veterans. From an economic growth potential, the number of jobs in the clean energy sector can easily replace the total number of current jobs in the coal industry. More than 50% of all new electric generation in the United States was provided by alternative energy, mostly from solar and wind energy sources. PGE Electric Rate Restructuring: In 2016, PGE, with approval from the California Public Utility Commission (CPUC), essentially re-wrote how electric ratepayers will be charged for their electricity for years to come. Increased electric costs in the late afternoon serve to de-incentivize (reduce) electric use and incentivizes solar PV deployment. With Net Metering, these increased afternoon electric costs increase the value of a solar PV system by providing higher credits to the solar customer who exports power to the grid at these times. PGE can rely on and re-sell this electricity to make up for any shortfalls in electric production, especially during high electric use summer days. By 2019, every rate-payer will be moved to a “Time of Use” rate, further advantaging the grid and those who have solar PV installed. Mark Becker is the President and business owner of GoSimpleSolar, by Semper Fidelis Construction Inc, CSLB 948715. GoSimpleSolar is one of the very few solar PV installers utilizing both licensed roofers and licensed electricians for installation work, project managed by a solar PV NABCEP professional. For more information, call us at 925-331-8011, visit www.GoSimpleSolar.com, or come by our showroom at 115 West Linda Mesa Avenue, Danville. Advertorial • ½ cup melted dark chocolate Preheat the oven to 325 degrees. Spread oats on a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet, and toast in oven for 20 minutes. Remove the oats and turn the oven down to 300 degrees. Carefully transfer oats to a bowl and toss with the coconut oil. Add the coconut flakes, raisins, nuts, cinnamon, salt, vanilla, and agave and mix well. Return the mixture to the parchment paper on the baking sheet. Spread to about ¼ inch thick using the back of a tablespoon to press down a little as you go. Don’t worry about it being exact. Bake at 300 degrees until golden brown – about 18 minutes in my convection oven. Remove pan and let cool completely. Melt chocolate in microwave or over double boiler (set one pot over another that has a cup of simmering boiled water). Once melted, use a tablespoon to slowly drizzle chocolate over the top of the bars. When completely cooled and hardened, cut the bars into two-inch pieces and store in containers or bags for your delivery. Keep the crumbles for your own yogurt topping. Decorate the bags with hearts and lace for a nostalgic trip back to elementary school, or make it a project for your little ones. To protect those with allergies, please include a copy of the ingredients or recipe so they will know what has been included. Along with this, consider including a handwritten note telling the recipient what you love or admire about them. Make it fun and sign it with your version of ‘secret admirer’ …perhaps ‘love and peace, your neighbor.’ Now you’re ready to share the love with your yummy doorstep bundles. Follow us at www.facebook.com/sustainabledanville. COMPUTER SERVICES, IT DESIGN & IMPLEMENTATION, IT INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT
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LOS CERROS MIDDLE SCHOOL
By Evan Powell, Principal
Los Cerros is looking forward to second semester and started the New Year with Donor’s Choose projects being funded! Teachers and students are immediately seeing the benefits of added technology and extracurricular items. We are thankful for our parents, community, and corporations who support the efforts to keep Los Cerros current and innovative. In the month of January, we hosted our first robotics night in which parents and students were able to program a robot with a balloon on it and drive it as close to a spike strip as possible. It was a great and engaging night for parents to see the creative workings of their students. Also, all of our 7th grade students were trained in CPR. Coming up in February, we will be hosting different parent nights for students at our school along with an “Evening with Evan” on Thursday, February 23rd at 7PM in the library. At this evening, I will discuss the transition of responsibility for students along with evaluating student decisions and choices. There will also be student work around the library for everyone to look at. Los Cerros will be celebrating our 50th year celebration on Thursday, May 4th. We look forward to welcoming our alumni and community members to our Open House and sharing their stories of the school.
SAN RAMON VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
By Jamie Westgate, Principal
I’m sure I’m not the only one who recognizes how saturated the valley has been lately with rain. Despite my wishes for a week of dry weather, I am reminded that this rain will bring a beautiful spring season that we will all enjoy. If you’re like me, you’re ready to reap the benefits of our recent downpours with green hills and beautiful flowers. At the same time, I’m also aware that without the saturation of rain, we would be facing a continued drought. In a Christian school, we have the privilege of teaching our students the importance of saturating themselves in God’s Word. Without seeking God’s plan for our lives, our souls find themselves in a season of drought much like the type we experience on earth. We feel scorched, thirsty, and dry. Galatians 6:9 from the Bible tells us “the grass withers and the flowers fall, but the Word of our God stands forever.” We consider it a privilege to teach God’s eternal Truths to even our youngest of followers in an effort to help all of our students prepare for the seasons of difficulties and droughts ahead. One of the ways we best equip our students to appreciate their seasons of life is by reflecting on the experiences of others in our U.S. history. In just a couple of weeks, our 8th grade class will be heading out for their annual trip to Washington D.C, Gettysburg, and New York City. There is no better way to help students appreciate sacrifice than to walk them through Arlington National Cemetery or stand together on the Gettysburg Battlefield. In addition, we teach them what it means to be diligent and perseverant when we visit one of many Smithsonian Museums to see both relics and innovations that demonstrate the ways our hard-working society transformed everyday life. In NYC, we stand at the 9/11 Memorial and realize that our lives are gifts to one another. Whether on the battlefield or at a Broadway show, we are excited to show our 8th graders what a privilege it is to be citizens in America. If you are interested in learning more about the benefits of a Christian education, please contact our school, (925)838-9622 or visit our website, www.srvca.org. We are Gopher/Mole Removal currently accepting applications for the 2017-2018 school year, and we No Poison welcome you to visit our campus for a private tour of our K-8th grade 925-765-4209 program or one of our upcoming prospective kindergarten activities.
FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 9
CHARLOTTE WOOD MIDDLE SCHOOL By Christopher George, Principal
We hope you have had a great start to the new year and are doing well into the first month of 2017. We have come back rested after a well deserved break for staff and students, and we’re ready to dive into second semester. This semester we will have a lot of events circulating around school climate and creating a better learning environment for all students. Thanks to our PTA leadership, our Leadership teachers and our many faculty advisors and all staff, we hope to work on creating a learning environment where every student is able to learn without distraction, fear, or anxiety. On January 31st, we will be working with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) on Internal Bias training for our staff. This is our first step in becoming a certified No Place for Hate school in concert with the ADL. They will then be working with our student leaders on a plan for the future of student climate. Secondly, on February 3rd, an assembly around service will be held for all students, and the presenters will also be taking a group to work on climate and service issues around our site. On March 2nd and 3rd, a group of students and staff will be working with Terrance Roberts, one of the original Little Rock Nine. We will also be supporting many other climate initiatives, including Words Matter Week during the second week of February, and working with the GSA around the Day of Silence in April. Additionally, we will also continue working on better curriculum, assessment and intervention practices throughout, as our dedicated staff always does. Thanks as always for your support.
ST. ISIDORE SCHOOL
By Maria Ward, Principal OUR GOSPEL VALUE FOR FEBRUARY IS LOVE!
We have many exciting events this month and are excited to share them with you. Our month starts with Catholic School Week. This year, our theme is “Catholic Schools: Communities of Faith, Knowledge and Service.” The theme encompasses several concepts that are the heart of Catholic education. First, schools are communities—small families in their own right, but also members of larger communities of home, church, city, and nation. Faith, knowledge, and service are the three measures by which any Catholic school is measured and tries to achieve with dedication, excellence, and compassion. Please join us at our open house on Thursday, February 2, at 6pm. All of our classrooms will be open, and our middle school students will be displaying their Science Fair projects in our Bensen Gym. Did you know that our students excel in service? We encourage our students to reach out to our community and give in many different ways. We follow the lead of our parish and believe that we all have time, talents, or treasures to offer. We inspire our students to show kindness and give back to those less fortunate. Student leadership was recently able to help support The Wheelchair Foundation. They raised enough funds to provide 10 wheelchairs to those who need mobility in Argentina. Our students also partner with St. Vincent de Paul on a monthly basis. Our older students serve at Loaves & Fishes in Contra Costa County, helping those who need a warm meal. This month our Service Learning Project will support the organization One Warm Coat. These types of outreach opportunities allow our students to build characteristics that make a St. Isidore student. Our annual school auction will be held on Saturday, February 25. This year, our theme is “The Mad Hatter’s Ball.” It will be held here on campus. We are thankful to our auction chairs, Melani Rivera and Jenny Favorito. They put their hearts into organizing our auction, and we are so grateful. We only have one auction a year. If you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, you do not want to miss this. Please visit our website at www.stisidore.org to purchase a ticket. If you are considering a Catholic school education for your children, please contact us for a private tour. St. Isidore School is currently accepting applications for Transitional Kindergarten through eighth grade. St. Isidore School is a home away from home where children are loved, nurtured, and educated through a strong moral foundation steeped in the Catholic faith. If you have any questions, please feel free to call us directly at 925-837-2977. We excel academically, we are 21st century learners, we are service-based, and we teach students how to live out our Catholic faith. We feel blessed to be a part of this community.
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PAGE 10 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
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BERKELEY ART MUSEUM PACIFIC FILM ARCHIVE By Linda Summers-Pirkle
As a high school student in the late 60’s and early 70’s in the Bay Area, my classmates and I were able to take advantage of many renowned exhibits and shows with some amazing field trips. We carpooled to the screening of Franco Zeffirelli’s Romeo and Juliet in San Francisco, and we saw Shakespeare’s Hamlet starring Dame Judith Anderson (1898-1992) at the Geary (American Conservatory Theater). Another memorable school trip was to the legendary dancer Anna Halprin’s Parades and Changes at the newly opened Berkeley Museum of Art. The show debuted in New York in 1967, and Clive Barnes of the New York Times in a review wrote, “I mean they remove every last stitch of clothing, and boys and girls together are as rip-roaring naked as berries…fantastic shapes evolve, paper sculptures mingling fascinatingly with nude bodies. The result is not only beautiful but somehow liberating as well.” I was surprised the dancers removed all their clothing during the show, but I remember at the age of 17 I was mostly surprised that “old” dancers who were in their 30’s and (gasp) 40’s removed their clothing!
A nice perch to have some coffee or snacks at the Museum is in the window seat of the café Babette.
The original Berkeley Museum of Art closed because of structural damage. My youngest daughter and I recently visited the relocated Berkeley Art Muse-
2395 Monument Blvd., Suite J Concord (925) 680-4433 (Across from Costco Gas Station, next to Harvest House)
um-Pacific Film Archive Museum (BAMPFA) which opened last year. The new museum is a gleaming silver structure designed by Diller, Scofidio & Renfro. “Hippie Modernism, the Struggle for Utopia” is opening on February 8 at the Berkeley Museum of Art and Pacific Archive. It is the first comprehensive exploration of the counterculture of the 1960’s and 1970’s and its impact on global art, architecture, and design. The presentation highlights the key role the Bay Area, and especially Berkeley, played in the art, architecture, and design of the counterculture movement. The Pacific Film Archive will explore cinema and counterculture with documentaries, fiction, and experimental cinema with a series called “Hippie Modernism Cinema and Counterculture 1964-1974.” If you are interested in film that led up to the counter culture days, there are two interesting series coming up at the BAMPFA. One is called “On Dangerous Ground: The Cinema of Nicholas Ray” which explores Ray’s post World War II noir masterpieces with such films as Rebel Without a Cause (1955) and The Lusty Men with Robert Mitchum (1952). Additionally, film historian David Thomson will offer a seven-week lecture/screening series “In Focus, Hollywood Outsiders.” Two of the films in this series are Hitchcock’s Vertigo (1958) and Billy Wilder’s Some Like It Hot (1959). The museum installation “Buddhist Art from the Roof of the World” (through June 11) is located on the lower level. The focal point is a gorgeous 14th century Buddha Shakyumuni bronze sculpture from Tibet. Check out his back shoulder—since the sculpture is hollow, this small square on his back is where temple goers stuffed the figure full of important and beautiful items. Our wonderful guide, Lynne Kimura, a specialist in Asian Art, advised visitors not to miss the group of seven lineage ‘thangkas’ which are unique and significant as both an artistic and political creation with their depiction of Dalai Lamas and historic/mythical figures in brilliant color and gold accents. Berkeley Art Museum-Pacific Film Archive is located at 2155 Center St., Berkeley. Reach them at (510) 642-0808 or www.bampfa.org. Hours are Wednesday, Thursday, Sunday from 11-7, and Friday and Saturday from 11-9. Films are shown nightly, Wednesday-Sunday. Free tours presented by UC Berkeley graduate students in history, art history, and architecture are offered on Wednesday, Sunday, and Free First Thursdays. Linda Summers Pirkle, travel consultant and long term Danville resident, has arranged and led 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. “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
FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 11
MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL
By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal
After returning from a relaxing winter break, Monte Vista’s students and faculty are beginning to return to the pace of school and the second semester. This was not an easy transition as all parties appear to have enjoyed a December ending to fall semester and a mostly work-free break. Nevertheless, it is exciting to begin a new semester and to build momentum as we move toward the end of the school year. Monte Vista’s faculty and students have a number of exciting opportunities to continue improving our academic practices and our school culture. On January 26th, Phil Boyte from Learning for Living worked with a student group and our faculty on building a safer and more supportive culture at Monte Vista. Phil’s visit will be followed up with another round of our “Breaking Down the Walls” program at the end of February. This iteration will focus on all members of our junior class. In addition, MV will be sending a five member team to the School Culture Summit with the goal of developing further actions that will help us evolve as a school community. We are also excited to send another 20 faculty members to Response to Intervention training the first week of February. Monte Vista’s winter athletic teams are battling through their tough EBAL schedules with the post season in mind. To date, our basketball and soccer teams are all in the middle of the pack and hope to distance themselves from the rest of the league in the second half of the season. As always, I would like to invite the Monte Vista Community to come out and support our athletes as they make their push towards EBAL Championships and the NCS Playoffs. Monte Vista’s arts programs are also beginning their preparations for late winter and spring performances. The Monte Vista Choir attended the Area Choir Festival on January 26th and Monte Vista’s Music Program is prepping for a variety of competitions coming up in February. We are also excited that Monte Vista’s Drama Program will be performing their annual musical at the end of February. We look forward to showing off all of our Visual and Performing Arts programs at a variety of performances throughout the spring semester. Please visit the MV website for times and dates of performances. Due to our new school calendar, February is now the big month for welcoming our incoming freshman class from our feeder middle schools. Monte Vista’s Counseling Department will be hosting our annual 9th Grade NEW YEAR Parent Nights on February 13th and 15th. In addition, • CARPET NEW FLOORS! Monte Vista will host our College Connect Information • HARDWOOD Night on Tuesday, February 7th and our AP / CTE In• CARPET RUGS formation Night on Wednesday, February 8th. Please • HARDWOOD CUSTOM RUGS check the Monte Vista website for more information. We welcome parents to participate at Monte Vista in • RUGS LINOLEUM many programs and activities. Monthly we have a Coffee with Kevin for parents to drop by and meet with depart• LINOLEUM TILE ment heads or a student panel. This month the coffee is on February 8th at 8:30am in Room 118 of the Workday Student Family Owned Business Center. Dads on Campus is a new speaker series with a Since 1989 monthly topic of “What Teens Wish Their Parents Knew” 3344 Mt. Diablo Blvd. and all MV Dads are welcome to attend Thursday, Lafayette, CA February 16th from 7-9pm in the Library. 925.284.4440 The spring semester is off and running at Monte Vista High School. We look forward to seeing you at www.LamorindaFloors.com License# 708486 one of our many campus events.
SAN RAMON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL
By Ruth Steele, Principal
February is a busy time for our high school. We close out winter sports and begin try-outs for spring sports. We also start planning for next school year. Students sign up for classes towards the end of February and we start building the master schedule which is a giant puzzle showing which classes we offer and how many students are in each class. We will hold “Building Bridges” night on February 21st and 22nd for all of our incoming freshmen and all of a sudden it feels like we are starting work for next year while still navigating this year! February is Black History month. In many of our classes we will be finding ways to celebrate and remember the accomplishments of African Americans as part of US history at SRVHS. The PTSA sponsored “Words Matter” week is also coming up in February, and that gives us a chance to think about the language we use and how it affects other people. This has never been more important. Other significant dates include our talent show on February 15th and the spring vocal concert at the end of the month. The talent show is a fund-raiser for our 21st Century Learning Foundation and an opportunity to come and watch students from all of our Performing Arts programs showcase their extraordinary talents. It is an amazing night of music, singing, dancing, and theatrical entertainment. Now that we are moving through the second semester, we are taking some time to assess how our school initiatives are going. We will be sending out parent, student, and staff surveys to assess how our 1:1 technology program is working and how our new bell schedule is going. Once we have the feedback, we will be looking at any adjustments that might need to be made. As part of our new bell schedule, we have been running Home Room student education sessions on Tuesdays. All of the resources for these can be found under the “Resources” tab on our website (srvhs.net). As we move through the next few weeks, we will be focusing on our new “Day in the Life of” program and sharing this work with staff, students, and parents. We embarked on this project as part of our “Challenge Success” program which is a partnership with Stanford University. I will share more about that next month!
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PAGE 12 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
A TASTE OF BELGIUM
By Betsy Ahlberg, Alamo World Travel
My husband Tim and I just returned from spending the holidays in Belgium. Our youngest daughter and her husband are living in Brussels for a year managing a Mission Center. We were able to join them for two weeks to explore the country. We enjoyed the cool, crisp weather and the wonderful Christmas markets that abound in every town. Each town has its own flavors, but they all serve the specialty foods of Belgium. Of course there was the giant, tasty bratwurst served foot-long on delicious rolls, slathered with onions, sauerkraut, and mustard. There were tasty dishes of ham, cheese, and potatoes cooked in giant pans right in front of you. Then there was Glugwine, hot and spicy to warm you up, as well as slabs of salmon cooked over an open fire, yummy hot chocolate, 500 + varieties of beer, and of course the famous chocolate in every shape and flavor. I almost forgot the Belgian Waffles! They came in every size and shape and were topped with everything you can imagine: fruit, chocolate, whipped cream, and ice cream...you name it, they have it. The other famous specialty is Friets (not french fries!) which were served in many unique shapes and sizes. You can get an ice cream cone filled with Friets or spiraled on a stick. Each market also had an ice skating rink filled with folks of all ages. Downtown Brussels in the Gran Platz feature an exciting light show with colored lights splashing across the buildings in time to classical music. Our days were filled with visiting multiple towns: Antwerp, Leuvan, Ghent, and of course famous Brugge. We spent three days there enjoying the markets, the food, the lovely architecture, canals, and the famous swans. Belgium is also filled with beautiful parks with lakes, streams, and winding walking paths, as well as hiking trails into deep forests. The locals and visitors alike enjoy stopping for lunch or just a drink in the middle of the park. We a l s o enjoyed the farmer ’s markets. Each town has one once a week-not your local market stall, but an 18-wheeler that opens up into a specialty store. There’s a deli, a cheese shop, a bakery, a produce market, even olives and spreads, and fresh roasted chicken cooked right in front of you. If you need a jacket, scarf, or warm hat, they were there as well! If you want a delightful country to explore on your next trip to Europe, don’t forget Belgium. A great way to see this delightful country is on an AmaWaterways river cruise in the spring. They offer a Tulip Time cruise from late March through April with stops in Antwerp, Middleburg, and Ghent with the option to visit Brugge. There are also bike tours as the countryside is ideal for biking with level bike trails everywhere and charming towns to see. Betsy can be reached at Alamo World Travel and Tours in Alamo at 925-837-8742 or by email at ahlbergtb@gmail.com. Let her help you plan your next great travel adventure, Advertorial by land or sea, riverboat or sailing yacht.
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GETTING FIT
By Peter Keady, Orangetheory Fitness Alamo
After enjoying 20 years of marriage, raising three daughters, and being in the fitness industry for almost two decades, I find myself on a new venture and have paused a minute to sit down and write an article. This is surprising to me and all of my English teachers, and I mean EVERY one of them. Yes, I was that kid: Dyslexic and ADD. In 2000 I left the high tech industry because I realized the fitness industry is my passion. It’s my calling. My wife was great enough to see I was miserable where I was and she agreed it was time for me to try something new. It wasn’t that the money, benefits, or lifestyle of my high tech job were bad -- it just didn’t do anything for my soul. There have been ups and downs after my career shift, just like life, but I have found having some big goals keeps you focused, and if you stay the course and get lucky enough, you win. Being healthy and fit is a major key to living well. There are a variety of fitness routines and workouts available for all sorts of tastes and temperaments. I have never had a client come back and tell me they want to be unhealthy again. N E V E R. I hear things like, “I wish I never stopped training,” “I wish I had learned this stuff sooner,” “I can’t believe how much younger I feel,” “I have more energy than when I was in my 30’s,” “I can’t believe how much better I sleep, “I like myself and my spouse so much more,” “My back doesn’t hurt so much,” “I can’t believe you didn’t tell me I would feel this good!” Fitness will enrich your daily life. It will elongate your life. However, you have to learn how to perform fitness moves properly, and the process changes as we age. I see many people that come back to fitness, but they don’t spend the correct time to build a fitness base. They are excited to get healthy and they have a goal, but then they rush in to a new routine and pay for it. You don’t get in shape or out of shape in one day or one week. As in all things, there is
See FITNESS continued on page 20
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FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 13
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PAGE 14 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
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FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 15
TECHNOLOGY MATTERS
By Evan Corstorphine
Ever since I was a young boy, I’ve loved pocket knives. I remember the red Swiss Army knife I was given by my grandfather that I treasured. The great part of a Swiss Army knife is that in addition to its very sharp blade, it has tons of clever tools packed into a very small package. When you carry one, you have a little toolbox in your pocket. Somewhere along the line, my own son also fell into the habit of wearing a pocket knife. He loves the Leatherman Skeletool, and having forgotten my fascination and enjoyment with pocket knives, he (easily) got me re-hooked on wearing one, too. To be honest, I use it daily whether it’s for cutting a box open, using the screwdriver, or doing whatever. It’s a great tool. “How could this possibly relate to technology?” I hear you cry. I’ll get to the point. Today, in addition to using my Skeletool, I carry an electronic Swiss Army knife: my smartphone. Whether I’m at home or work, I’ve become accustomed to having the “tools” available through my little pocket radio-computer, and I’m certain that I speak for you as well. That’s all it is, really: a small computer paired with a radio that allows for all sorts of communication over a large public network. It’s the communication that makes the smartphone work, because as you know, your smartphone is dramatically less interesting when you don’t have a network signal of some sort. I remember the first time I heard about the iPhone, and I not-so-presciently thought, “Who the heck wants a phone connected to their iPod”? This thought unfortunately harkens back to 1927 when H.M. Warner famously said, “Who the hell wants to hear actors talk?” It would seem I’m in good, if not short-sighted company! Hats off to the crew at Apple for figuring this one out, because they definitely had the long game plan in mind. While smartphone technical evolution seems to have stagnated somewhat as of late, there are still tricks in the bag as far as their integration into corporate America. We’ve been working a lot with companies on their BYOD (bring
your own device) policies and have been fortunate to acquire toolsets we can share with our clients that let us manage phones connected to the company network. The “sticky wicket,” where we always need to tread carefully, is where corporate policy exerts itself across and around an individual’s personal phone. Where does one draw the line? Where does your right to govern your device cede to my right to protect my company network, email system, or resources? These are all very important questions that we must tackle when implementing BYOD polices across a company. No one wants to be heavy handed, but we as individuals cannot expect free access to company resources without making some security compromises to protect company assets we’re accessing. A great benefit of smartphones for companies is that since most everyone owns one, everyone already has a pocket computer available to run specialized programs or access company data. New systems, like AWP file sharing (Autotask Workplace), enable businesses and vendors to push data all the way down to the individual through intelligently implemented smartphone applications. Frankly, it’s turning the way we work on its head, because the virtual office has now been completely realized. Between VOIP telephone systems and the smartphone applications that have extended company resources to the individual, one can work from anywhere they can get a network signal, which is just about anyplace these days. The smartphone is here to stay, and I believe the next evolution will come in the way we access our data. For instance, right now it’s all about our thumbs as we tap out our commands on our devices. If you haven’t noticed, there is a gigantic push for voice access and control. Both Amazon (Alexa) and Google (Google Home) are leading the way with butler-style access to data and control of local devices and home automation. Do you remember the Star Trek series where each crew member had a metal Star Fleet emblem attached to their tunic, which was a communicator and an interface to the main computer? We’re really almost there, and I am certain life will soon imitate art. If you’d like to learn how you can better enable your mobile workforce through smartphone and cloud technology, let’s grab a cup of coffee and talk about it. We’re excited about what the future holds and would love to bring you along. You can reach us at info@pcioit.com or 925-552-7953. Advertorial
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PAGE 16 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
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He shot both black-and-white and color slide film. When he returned home, married his fiancée and began graduate school, he packed all his photos away. In 2013, Arlene Addison asked Steve to address her Cal High advanced English classes in connection with a unit on war in literature. Encouraged by their 60 thank-you letters, Burchik yielded to urging by other friends to do a presentation for his sailing club. As he labored to digitize his collection, he realized he had over 4,000 images. Asked by an attendee when his book was coming out, Burchik discovered his wife Christina had saved all of their almost daily correspondence, giving him the detail he needed to complete Compass and a Camera. His second book, Focus on Vietnam, was released in 2016. On March 16th at 7PM at Veterans’ Memorial Building, Burchik will share additional photographs and talk about his experiences. A book signing follows the program. In accepting the 2015 Independent Publishers Book Awards Silver Medal, he remarked, “Vietnam veterans were often ignored and sometimes vilified because of their participation in America’s most unpopular war. It took me 45 years to come to terms with that experience and finally, with the encouragement of some very special people, write down Vietnamese children quickly learned to operate the gumball dispenser Burchik the daily account of my year in Vietnam.” brought them as part of a pacification mission. (Steven Burchik photo) Burchik explains, “Most of the soldiers returning from Vietnam were young men who were just beginning to start families and careers. A lot of the Vietnam era photographs were tossed into bags or boxes and left on a shelf in a garage or attic where they were subject to humidity and extremes of cold and heat for many years. Many of the veterans wound up moving several times over the years, and the photographs and other mementos were often misplaced or left behind.” Mementos of a personal nature are the subject of fashion and jewelry historian Marcia Harmon’s talk entitled “Sweetheart Jewelry, Love Tokens and Mementos” Saturday, February 11 at 10:30AM at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley. Harmon, owner of Cottage Jewel Antiques, will pass around pieces during her presentation. She invites attendees to bring wartime souvenirs and jewelry for identification and dating. In an article for Vintage WHAT’S UP? Today Magazine she writes: “War time keepsakes remind us that wars are MT. DIABLO ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY (MDAS) fought by human beings, and that war extends beyond the battlefield to the civilians whose lives are altered as we work together for survival and By Jim Scala th protection of our free world.” Mt. Diablo on March 4 . You’re One piece on loan from a local resident is identical to the pin worn by in for a treat on Saturday, March 4th Madeleine Albright in a photo with French President Jacques Chirac appearatop Mt Diablo, viewing stars and ing in her book Read My Pins: Stories from a Diplomat’s Jewel Box. Harmon planets through telescopes. Arrive by notes: “The French Cockade fur clip was advertised in Vogue magazine to 5:30PM or earlier which is better. Your raise money and to promote liberty, equality, fraternity, and unity with our evening will start with a short talk on the objects you will observe. You will See LETTERS continued on page 19 be rewarded with a splendid evening observing lunar craters, stars, planets, nebula, and double stars. This will be an excellent experience for everyone, especially children. Three interesting planets. Venus, Earth’s twin, dominates the sky during twilight. Through telescopes it will appear like a small Moon about half full. Look carefully and you’re sure to see markings in Venus’s clouds. Not far in the sky from Venus are two other Upcoming Cooking Classes at planets, Mars and Uranus. If you look carefully through a large telescope, you can see Mars’s polar cap. Uranus appears as a small greenish disk in the eyepiece. You’ll learn that Venus is only 26 million miles from Earth, while Mars is over 65 million, and Uranus is many more millions away. But they’re all in our solar system and illustrate its vastness. Comet Enke is a possibility. Generally difficult to observe, Enke should be visible in the larger telescopes as a hazy patch of light. You will be Saturday February 4th noon - 2pm ~ Frying without Oil Enjoy fried food without the added fat… Our COSO Representative will be here observing a solar system comet that few people ever get to see, and it’s to show you how. Lunch on chicken, kale chips, fries and more! $10/person not visible without a telescope. The Moon is spectacular. Observing the moon through a telescope The Timid Cook three class series with its spectacular craters brings observational astronomy to life. Several Designed for the timid or first time cooks, these classes will inspire you to cook for yourself, friends, and family all year long. We’ll start by learning knife skills telescopes will be focused on outstanding craters. which are essential for anyone who aspires to be a success in the kitchen. Deep sky objects are plentiful. The Orion nebula, where stars are being February 16th – Knife skills – Mince, Chop, Julienne – chicken three ways born, will appear bright and colorful, and take up most of the view in the February 23rd – Pasta and rice – Foolproof cooking with an international flair eyepiece. Our solar system started in a nebula like Orion. There are several March 2nd – Vegetables and grains – Roasting, Steaming, Blanching, Sautéing excellent globular star clusters. If our sun were in a cluster, the night sky $65/class or $55/class when signing up for all three. would be bright with stars. You can get a look at the Andromeda Galaxy, Call today to reserve your seat! our Galaxy’s twin, and several others will be visible. Your astronomical evening will only end when you are tired, ready to call in a night, or the MDAS leaders decide it’s time. You’ll never forget what you see and be sure to attend again. Attend the MDAS Monthly meeting on February 28th. At the meeting, an astronomer will discuss Supernovas and exploding stars, starting at 7:15PM Alamo Ace Hardware |3211 Danville Blvd., Alamo | 925-837-2420 in the Lindsay Wildlife Museum, located at 1931 1st Ave., Walnut Creek. www.AlamoHardware.com For any questions, please contact me at jscala2@comcast.net.
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LIFE IN THE DANVILLE GARDEN
TIMELESS AND TRANSITIONAL By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect #4059
I like to follow-up with my clients after a period of time to see how they are enjoying their beautiful yards. After many years of creating gardens, I discovered a new distinction for how a landscape matures and why some of my clients were disappointed even though initially they absolutely loved their gardens. Timeless and Transitional, that’s it! At first glance “Timeless and Transitional” seems a little dramatic. It isn’t really, and I will tell you why in a moment. It all begins with expectations. We all know a garden can be beautiful, relaxing, stunning, delightful, therapeutic, and all of those great things I usually write about. On the other hand, gardens can be ugly, annoying, agitating, and sometimes just don’t meet your expectations, and that is disappointing. Most likely you have felt the way I feel about my own garden sometimes -- you too, at one time or another, have been disappointed and down right upset about your garden. Don’t get me wrong, I love my garden and my clients love the ones I design for them, but sometimes it just seems like nature (and untrained gardeners) get the best of our expectations. Case in point: I went to visit one of my client’s gardens only to find plants that I had designed in the plans were either missing, woody and misshaped, or turned into little balls and squares. Plants were missing because nature, especially with the drought over the last two years, had taken its toll. Perennials were missing and lavender was just woody stalks. Half broken, and lovely arching shrubs were turned into balls and squares by an inexperienced yard gardener in their prime bloom time. This is not what I expect and most of my clients don’t either. I have written about the importance of the hardscape, which are built elements that are timeless, as one aspect of creating an outdoor environment. The other design feature is the softcape, living elements which are transitional. What I discovered in this distinction of timeless and transitional is that while the backbone of a design of the garden was still there, beautiful and functioning just as I had designed it to be, the softscape was displaying the transitions of the years. If it wasn’t the drought, a harsh cold winter, and a long hot Indian summer, it was untrained gardeners, varmints, pets, fungus, and you-name-it that thrashed our expectations for a beautiful and everlasting show-piece. The good news is that there is hope! The bad news is you must rearrange your expectations. Gardens are truly “Timeless and Transitional.” Good design will always be timeless and will last over the years. The timeless aspects of a good landscape design are the beautiful and elegant elements of the hardscape such as well-crafted stone work on your patio, seat wall, pool, detailed trellis, pergola, arbor, fence, or garden gates. Well-placed timeless trees like oaks, redwoods, maples, olives, and crepe myrtles and long-lasting plantings like laurel, boxwood, mock orange, wisteria, and camellias can make up the softscape. While timeless is a little easier to swallow, transitional is the one that forces us to rearrange our expectations. We need to learn to understand that the living aspect of your design is a moving target and more unpredictable. It has taken me almost thirty years to get it! Snails eat your plants, fungus curls your peach leaves (unless you remember to spray at the precise time), aphids arrive every year to devour your roses, and plants need replacing every so often just like your home needs fresh paint and new carpet. With this new knowledge and reset expectations, you can relax in your garden, watch the transitions happen, replace and update as necessary, appreciate the majesty of your timeless elements, and accept the transition! A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: One of the services we offer is to work with my staff horticulturists to do consulting for clients who don’t need a full Master Landscape Plan. This service offers on-site practical advice addressing your “transitional” concerns. Check out my website!
FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 17
Ro u n d H i l l C o u n t r y C l u b
Renovation Special Renovate your lifestyle In anticipation of our upcoming Clubhouse renovation, Round Hill Country Club is offering up to a $10,000 credit on a limited number of new Memberships. • Golf Membership: Initiation $40,000*, receive a credit on the Member account of $10,000. • Tennis Membership: Initiation $6,000, receive a credit on the Member account of $3,000. • Associate-Swim Membership: Initiation $2,500, receive a credit on the Member account of $1,250. Available January 6 to March 1, 2017. Promotional credits are usable for any charges other than Initiation Fees. Admissions Requirements apply. *Purchase of a share also required.
Please contact our Membership Office for more details at rhcc@roundhillcc.org or 925.314.2901 Offer subject to change without prior notice.
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Gardening Quote of the Month: My green thumb came only as a result of the mistakes I made while learning to see things from the plant’s point of view. - H. Fred Ale If you would like me to write on any particular subject, email your ideas to jmontgomery@jm-la.com or for design ideas visit www.jm-la.com or www.houzz. com/pro/jmla/john-montgomery-landscape-architects. Advertorial
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PAGE 18 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
TOPPING TREES?
By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb
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. Another common misperception is that topping will make the tree safer; it almost always does just 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 more time with rake in hand than before the topping. Topping to increase view is often done without realizing that the new view will include an ugly 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
CLIP NOTES
By Jody Morgan
On June 30, 1864, President Abraham Lincoln signed a bill known in layman’s parlance as “The Yosemite and Big Trees Grant.” The unprecedented legislation protected a tract of land in perpetuity for the public to access for recreation and loggers to leave untouched. Lincoln, who had never stood beside one of the Giant Sequoias, was leading a country embroiled in war. The bloody confrontation at Gettysburg was just a year past. Sherman’s march to Atlanta that demoralized the South was months away. Yet, in the midst of the conflict tearing our nation apart, time was taken to initiate a process culminating eventually in the establishment of our National Parks. In 1833, Zenas Leonard, trekking with Joseph Walker’s exploration party, recorded the earliest known description by a Caucasian of the Giant Sequoias. “In the last two days traveling we have found some trees of the Red-wood species incredibly large – some of which measure 16 to 18 fathoms [96-108 feet] round the trunk at the height of a man’s head from the ground.” Published in 1839 in Narrative of the Adventures of Zenas Leonard, the described dimensions failed to capture botanists’ attention. No contemporary press coverage highlighted John M. Wooster’s 1850 bid for remembrance by carving his initials into one of the gargantuan trees. But after thousands of years of peaceful coexistence with Native Americans, the remarkable trees (named “Wawona” in one dialect in imitation of the call of the Northern Spotted Owl considered to be guardian of the forest) found standing their ground against white men problematic. Endangerment began with the Mariposa Indian War, 1850-1851 that secured safe access to the Yosemite Valley and surrounding territory for gold rush miners. Augustus T. Dowd was ridiculed by his campmates in 1852 when he came back from hunting game raving about enormous evergreens. His tale seemed too tall then and has been suitably exaggerated since. But Dowd convinced his companions to follow him back to the grove. The ancient specimen he showed them, dubbed the “Discovery Tree,” was felled a year later. Five men spent 25 days chopping down a tree that proved to be 1,300 years
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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old when the rings were counted. The expansive stump was smoothed for a dance floor. People who waged war against the elements to cross the Sierras, often losing loved ones, took pride in prevailing against a force of nature. They saw the towering www.thefallenheroes.org trees as revenue for commercial enterprises supporting the progress of civilization. Scientific naming of the big trees generated an international controversy. In 1847, German botanist Stephan Endlicher designated the related Coast Redwoods Sequoia sempervirens honoring Sequoyah, who created a system of writing the Cherokee language that transcribed spoken sounds into 85 characters. In 1853, William Lobb brought specimens of the Giant Sequoias to England. John Lindley labeled the discovery Wellingtonia gigantea. American botanists demanded an American appellation. In 1939, the Sierra natives officially became Sequoiadendron giganteum. Carleton Watkins rushed to California in 1849, seeking his fortune. Photographing mines rather than extracting gold generated his fame. Scenes he shot at Yosemite during the summer of 1861 were displayed in a New York gallery the following year. Irish immigrant John Conness arrived in Washington, DC as California’s junior senator in 1863 with his collection of Carleton prints. Conness became close enough to Lincoln to serve as the President’s pallbearer in 1865. Thought to have shown Lincoln the Yosemite photographs while working with him on the “Big Trees” bill, Conness introduced the federal government’s first land preservation initiative. California was tasked with maintaining the land encompassed within the grant in perpetuity in the public trust. Leasing the land for resorts was permitted. In 1906, the tract defined in the 1864 bill became part of Yosemite National Park. Heading the commission administering the grant, Frederick Law Olmsted, designer of New York’s Central Park, wrote in 1865, “The other district associated with this by the act of Congress, consists of four sections of land, about thirty miles distant from it, on which stand in the midst of a forest composed of the usual trees and shrubs of the western slope of the Sierra Nevada, about 600 mature trees of the giant Sequoia. Among them is one known through numerous paintings and photographs as the Grizzly Giant, which is probably the noblest tree in the world.” Survivor of thousands of lightening strikes, Grizzly Giant still stands. Olmsted’s wife Mary wrote upon viewing the immense trees: “They are FallenHeroes2x3_11-27-13.indd like cathedral columns or giant organ pipes.”
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MYOPIA CAN BE HAZARDOUS
By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.
Over the years, I’ve encountered many situations in which clients, regardless of best intentions, have been myopic. In this context, let’s define myopia as a lack of foresight or discernment (or narrow-mindedness). Unfortunately, myopia often leads to unnecessary cost and inconvenience, if not also unintended consequences. Here are two common examples of myopia in the world of estate planning: 1) Failing to fully fund a Revocable Living Trust. One of the most valuable benefits of a Living Trust is probate avoidance - an expensive and inconvenient court-supervised estate administration process. Often, a Living Trust is established by a person or couple who keeps significant assets (e.g. bank or securities accounts) in their own name(s). Conveniently, an account co-owned by spouses will, on the death of the first spouse, be automatically owned by the surviving spouse. The problem is that probate is not avoided if the account is still held in the surviving spouse’s name when the surviving spouse dies. The negative consequences tend to be much more severe when people don’t transfer title of their real estate into their Living Trust. The preparation and execution of a Living Trust is only the first step. In order to avoid probate, one must accomplish the second step – retitling all or substantially all assets into the Living Trust. With advice and assistance from a knowledgeable estate planning attorney, the “trust funding” (title transfer) process is typically straightforward and quite manageable. Nevertheless, if this is not done or is not done correctly, it can result in considerable hassle and tens of thousands of dollars in unnecessary probate fees and costs to loved ones. 2) Neglecting to submit beneficiary designations on retirement plans and life insurance policies. Retirement plans, such as 401Ks and IRAs, are legally owned by the plan participant, not by the participant’s Living Trust. Fortunately, probate is avoided on the death of the plan participant because
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FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 19
the beneficiary(ies) who are designated and on file with the retirement plan custodian are entitled to the retirement account. The same concept applies to life insurance contracts. Myopia occurs when a retirement plan participant or life insurance contract owner: a) Never submits a beneficiary designation form to the retirement plan custodian institution or life insurance company; or b) designates a primary beneficiary but no secondary/alternate beneficiary; or c) doesn’t designate new beneficiaries when desired; or d) fails to integrate these beneficiary designations with his estate plan (e.g. Living Trust). It is very unfortunate when a retirement plan owner dies, and there is no then-living designated beneficiary on file with the custodian. This sometimes occurs when the primary designated beneficiary is deceased and no secondary beneficiary is designated. In this situation, the account is subject to probate. Another problem stems from this fact: many people don’t realize that beneficiary designations “trump” Living Trusts and Wills. Let’s suppose that Betty is the beneficiary of your Living Trust and Will, but Bill is designated as beneficiary of your retirement plan. Bill takes your retirement plan. It’s ironic and sometimes tragic that people do not attend to their beneficiary designations carefully, even when large sums are at stake. Some years ago, I was involved in a case in which my client had been the designated beneficiary of a $3 million life insurance policy owned by her husband. They divorced. Fifteen years later, he died. She was entitled to, and received, the $3 million death benefit. It’s uncertain whether my client’s ex-husband wanted that result; however, it’s possible, if not likely, that due to his myopia, he simply never submitted a new beneficiary designation form (naming someone different) following their divorce. * Estate Planning * Trust Administration & Probate * Real Estate * Business Please contact the author to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. Mr. Silverman is an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group which is located at 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 125, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com. This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors. Advertorial
allies against Germany.” Manufactured in New York in 1940 by the Silson Company, this piece of patriotic jewelry was sponsored by the American Friends of France. Among the tokens of remembrance Harmon will discuss are pieces of Trench Art crafted by servicemen out of objects found on the battlefield such as shell casings. Bullet pencils originally made from spent .303 cartridges by British soldiers during the 1890s were recreated in 1914 for distribution in Christmas care packages from Princess Mary to every man wearing the King’s uniform. Manufactured versions no longer using actual cartridges were made in the US beginning in the 1930s. War Comes Home: The Legacy is part of Cal Humanities current War Comes Home initiative, a thematic program designed to promote greater understanding of veterans and explore how war shapes a community. The exhibition is based on the work of the Center for American War Letters (CAWL) and is presented by Exhibit Envoy. Andrew Carroll, Director of CAWL and award winning New York Times bestselling author, and John Benitz, Associate Professor in the Department of Theatre at Chapman University, curated the exhibit. Thirteen freestanding panels are grouped into sections. Exhibit Envoy describes the presentation: “Within each section, the exhibition pairs an historic letter with a contemporary letter or email to demonstrate the range of experiences military members face as they transition from deployment to home.” The accompanying audio tour, accessible to visitors on their cell phones A dog handler and a radio operator pause for a short break on a or through MP3 players available at the Museum, features the reading of the letters by either hot, humid day. (Steven Burchik photo) the writers themselves or professional actors. “These intimate perspectives –from the Civil War era through the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq – reveal how war can shape a life, a family and a community.” • February 9 at 7PM at Veterans’ Memorial Building, “World War I: Two Perspectives” examines the Great War from both American and European viewpoints. Two historians will discuss why the war escalated into a global conflict and how it changed society. John Stephen Futini holds a master’s degree in history and has taught history courses at Indian Valley Colleges, Chapman University, and Napa Valley College. Dr. John Corbally is Assistant Professor of History at Diablo Valley College. • February 23 at 7PM at Veterans’ Memorial Building the PBS award winning program “War Letters” will be shown. A discussion of how letters convey the thoughts and emotions of war in exchanges between battlefield and home front follows the presentation. • March 1 at 7PM at Veterans’ Memorial Building, a panel of veterans and their families from World War II to the present will talk about separation, longing and worry, and adjustment to homecoming in a program entitled “How I wish that we could be together …” “Think of Me Often” completes the exhibit-related events on April 7 at 7PM at the Danville Library with an evening of poetry and music. “Clarinet Fusion” will perform evocative numbers from the Civil War to the present. Located at 205 Railroad Avenue, Danville, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley is open Tuesday-Friday 1pm-4pm, Saturday 10am-1pm, and Sunday noon-3PM. For the latest information on events and exhibits, visit www.museumsrv.org or call (925)837-3750.
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PAGE 20 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
CAN I RETIRE IN 2017?
A VACCINE FOR CANCER IS HERE
By Robert Cucchiaro, Certified Financial Planner
Last week I sat down with a couple that I’ve been working with for almost exactly 10 years, and I helped them set a retirement date – November 1, 2017. Now, this was not the first time we had discussed this being the date; in fact, it’s the same date we talked about 10 years ago and have been throwing around ever since then. The symbolic reason for the date is that it is the day my client, Jim, turns 70. Jim is COO of a hospital, and despite his solid income and frugal ways, he always found it hard to believe that he would have enough money to retire by his 70th birthday. You see, Jim’s mom is still alive and kicking at 96 years old, and this has Jim convinced that his retirement funds need to last 30+ years. In January of 2007, I met Jim and Mary for the first time. They had been referred to me by their CPA and said they wanted to come in and just ask me a few questions about their respective retirement plans at work. Our conversation quickly moved beyond those retirement accounts as I could see what they really wanted was a Financial Game Plan. While their retirement plans at work were great, they were really just a piece of the overall puzzle. Jim and Mary are both very smart and asked great questions like when should they take social security, and which pension option should they take, and what about their taxes and their estate plan, and what about the costs of long-term care. Mary had seen firsthand the impact a long-term care illness can have as it essentially wiped out her mother’s savings and any inheritance she might have received; she wasn’t going to do that to her kids. Though Jim and Mary were already in a better financial position than most when we met, they wanted a 10 year game plan that we could all wrap our arms around. My job was to work with them to develop that plan, help them implement the plan, and then meet with them each year to review the plan and make sure they were still on track. By the end of the first year, the plan was in place: accounts had been established, investments were repositioned, and insurance was in place. Then, the market crashed. 2008 hit everyone hard, and I was concerned that it would give Jim and Mary cause for panic and a reason to deviate from their plan. But fortunately I was wrong. They told me that in the past, any market hiccup would send them running for cover; but this time was different. I had shifted their mindset to think in terms of the next 10 years, not the next 1-2 years, and they felt confident that over the long-term, their investments would more than recover (and they were right). Despite all of the ups and downs and the changes that life has thrown at them, they have stuck with the plan. And now I have the honor of being able to show them that they can retire this year and live comfortably for the rest of their lives. There is no need to downsize their home or move out of state, and no concern about what the 2017 stock market may bring. And the best part of all is that with their retirement comes a new game plan, one that includes vacations, time with the grandkids, and volunteer work. You may have some investment accounts and insurance policies that you’ve set up over the years, but do you have a Financial Game Plan? Now is the time to establish your 10 year plan, and Summit Wealth & Retirement can help. Robert Cucchiaro is a Certified Financial Planner. He is a Partner and owner of Summit Wealth & Retirement, a financial planning firm that has been serving business owners in Danville for almost 30 years. Rob specializes in retirement, investment, tax, and estate planning. www.summitwealthanAdvertorial dretirement.com. (925) 927-1900 or rob@swrpteam.com
By Gigi Chen, MD
This year the California Department of Public Health is holding a preteen vaccine week February 12th through 18th. The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices recommends that 11 and 12 year olds have the Tdap (required), Meningococcal, Influenza, Chickenpox, and HPV vaccines before entering into 7th grade. As a medical oncologist, I encourage all parents to view the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine as a requirement rather than a suggestion. It is true for all cancers that early detection is crucial. HPV is the primary cause of cervical and anal cancer, making it pertinent for both girls and boys to be protected. Furthermore, certain types of HPV are called ‘high-risk types’ because they are strongly linked to cancers, including cancer of the cervix, vulva, and vagina in women, penile cancer in men, and anal and oral cancer in both men and women. Infection with HPV is common, and in most people the body is able to clear the infection on its own. Sometimes, however, the infection does not go away and becomes chronic. It is the chronic infection that can lead to the development of cancers. All that is needed to pass HPV from one person to another is skin-to-skin contact with an area of the body infected with HPV. While this usually means transmission during intercourse, it is not only the rule. As with all other vaccines, the HPV vaccine has been carefully studied. While there are mild side effects such as fever, dizziness or fainting when given to preteens and teens, serious side effects are rare. Always tell your child’s physician if your teen has any severe allergies or is pregnant. Gigi Chen, MD is a Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Diablo Valley Oncology. She has extensive experience in treating all types of cancer, with a special interest in lung and gynecologic cancers. She sees patients in Pleasant Hill, Rossmoor, and San Ramon. To contact Dr. Chen, please call (925) 677-5041 or visit www.dvohmg.com. Advertorial
FITNESS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 12
a big pay off in being consistent. Challenge your mind, body, and spirit to start slowly and ramp up. There are many different options in the fitness world these days. When looking for a new studio, gym, personal trainer, sport, or anything that gets you moving it is important to find something that you enjoy. The location needs to be accessible, fun, clean, community-based (if important to you), and results-driven. Whether your looking to lose weight, build core strength or help get your back in shape, we can help. Orangetheory Fitness has been rated the best one hour workout in the country. It’s a complete body workout, combining cardio and strength conditioning. The workout is great for beginning, intermediate, and advanced athletes. All workouts are led by a certified coach and no two workouts are ever the same! Classes start at 5am and continue into the evening. Sign up before we open in late February to take advantage of the lowest prices we will ever offer. Call 925-378-5610 or stop by 170C Alamo Plaza Shopping Center in Alamo. I look forward to helping you realize your fitness goals! Pete Keady is a life-long fitness enthusiast who practices what he preaches both personally and professionally. He is the owner of the new Orangetheory Fitness in Alamo. He’s held many titles in the business from personal trainer, group exercise instructor (cycling), membership salesperson, general manager, regional director, and owner (Body Fat Test). Advertorial
TELECARE CONNECTS WITH THE HOMEBOUND
Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, have been making daily reassurance calls, Monday through Friday, to those in our community who are homebound. As the chapter’s longest standing philanthropic program, TeleCare empowers the clients, no matter what their ages, to remain in their homes. What ensures this is a daily confidential journal kept for each client that member volunteers consult prior to the phone calls then update accordingly. Last year alone, member volunteers devoted 765 hours to connecting with homebound clients. If you live alone or know someone who does, a daily phone call would be a great way to stay connected with life and make new friends. Other TeleCare activities include attending an annual holiday party to meet fellow clients and member volunteers face to face, as well as receiving greeting cards from the Assisteens®, an auxiliary where kids learn to participate in a community service at a young age. So make that call to get you or someone you know connected. For more information about TeleCare, please phone (925) 934-0901. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s other philanthropic programs, funded by its thrift shop in Lafayette, and its recently awarded GuideStar Exchange gold participation level status, please visit diablovalley.assistanceleague.org.
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FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 21
Alamo’s 1st & Only Pediatric Dentist! Alamo Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Welcomes Dr. Allan Pang Dr. Pang completed his undergraduate degree at the University of California, San Diego. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. After Tufts he completed a General Practice Residency at University of California, Los Angeles. Thereafter, Dr. Pang practiced general dentistry in the community of Los Gatos, California for two years. It was during this time that he realized how much he enjoyed working with his pediatric patients and returned to school to specialize in Pediatric Dentistry. His residency in Pediatric Dentistry at New York University-Bellevue Hospital in New York City allowed for him to have extensive training in treating the well child and those with special healthcare needs such as children with craniofacial disorders and developmental disabilities. Dr. Pang has been in private practice since 2008. He is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, a Diplomate with the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
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PAGE 22 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST
HOW MUCH PROTEIN DO I REALLY NEED EACH DAY? By Linda Michaelis RD, MS
I have evaluated many food diaries that clients bring in. I often see they are not consuming enough protein and I tell them this easily explains why they are feeling hungry all the time and have endless cravings for sweets. A 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”? I inform them that the food label is upside down. Protein is the last item listed on the label, where it should be the first. It is the most important food group and is easily overlooked. Protein is expressed in grams rather than in ounces or pounds which typically is how we purchase protein in our markets. We need to know how many grams of protein is equal to an ounce. My favorite example is the gold standard cereal Kashi Go Lean. Kashi Go Lean has 13 grams of protein in a 1 cup serving. One ounce of protein is equal to 7 grams, so you get almost 2 ounces of protein from a cup of 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 bodyweight. It is suggested you 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. I always recommend to veer to a higher protein intake. I create personalized protein recommendations for my clients based on their lifestyle, age, exercise, and health concerns. I suggest that protein consumption should be distributed mostly during the day as opposed to eating the large tradi-
THE EYE OPENER CORNEAL ULCERS By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry
Patients are always asking me what can happen to the eye if they sleep in their lenses. I tell them it is best if you don’t find out, but a corneal ulcer is the likely answer. Since these conditions cause pain, extreme light sensitivity, and decreased vision, the exact reason is not as paramount as getting the proper diagnosis and treatment. The cornea is the clear front part of the eye. It is made of clear collagen and does about 2/3 of the focusing of the eye; it contains no blood vessels and is one of the most highly innervated tissues in the body with nerves. Therefore, just the slightest insult will cause the eye to be red, painful, and light sensitive. The good thing about the cornea is that is does heal quickly, and usually with proper and aggressive treatment, the patient will start to feel some relief in 24 to 48 hours. The cornea has many ways to keep infections away, so thankfully infections do not occur that often. However, your susceptibility increases with contact lens wear and contact lens wear non-compliance. In addition, eyelid inflammation and disease can set the stage for corneal compromise and infection. The most common cause for infections is poor compliance with contact lens wearing, improper disposal of your lenses, or sleeping in your lenses. Usually the infection forms and progresses overnight as the cornea becomes compromised and more susceptible to bacterial infections from normal bacteria on and around the eyes and eyelids. Patients will then wake up with a red, painful eye and will usually call the office first thing in the morning. Corneal infections need to be treated quickly and aggressively. Treatment consists of high dose antibiotic drops and follow-up within one to two days. Without proper treatment, the cornea can deteriorate very quickly and can lead to permanent decreased vision depending on the exact location and area infected. The patient cannot wear their contacts for about a week, so this is a great example of why a reliable pair of back-up glasses is mandatory for all contact lens wearers. We will see the patient back in the office until the infection resolves, and then they can start wearing their lenses again. Our office policy is that once a corneal infection is directly related to sleeping in
tional protein meal at night. This eating style keeps you more satisfied and prevents blood sugar fluctuations and cravings for sweets. 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 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 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. I make sure that lunch contains at least 4-6 ounces of protein along with a healthy grain and a cup of veggies. I put together a list of lunches that can be taken to work or eaten at my client’s 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 eaten the amounts of protein 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 less protein at night. Many of my clients say that trainers tell them that they need more protein and recommend protein shakes. I think protein shakes are great for pre or post workouts, but often they are not filling enough to last for several hours. Studies have shown that consuming more protein than is 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. Most insurance companies cover nutritional counseling: Aetna, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, CIGNA, Health Net, Sutter, and UHC. Please visit LindaRD.com for more information about your nutritional concerns, call (925) 855-0150, or e-mail me at lifeweight1@yahoo.com. Advertorial your lenses, you are not allowed to do so going forward. Wearing your lenses daily is not a problem, but sleeping in them is not allowed. Most patients are fine with this considering the pain and associated issues with the infection. Chronic lid conditions such as blepharitis can also lead to corneal infections. The bacteria on and around the lids and lashes are close to the eye, especially overnight, and can start the breakdown of the cornea. Once these bacterial excretions get in the eye, the corneal defenses are weakened, paving the way for an infection. That is why it is very important to remove all makeup at night and to keep the eyelids and eyelashes as clean as possible. Patients that come into the office for a corneal infection usually present the same. They all wear dark sunglasses, have a tissue handy for the constant tearing, usually wear a hat, and cover their face because of the light sensitivity. Regardless of the exact cause or diagnosis, these symptoms need to be treated. Again, the “good” thing about these patients is that they are in a decent amount of pain, so they will seek care very soon after the onset of their symptoms. We are more than happy to see you in the office on the same day to start the healing process. Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at 8206622, 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
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TREATING WHIPLASH WITH CHIROPRACTIC CARE
By Dr. Melissa Ko, D.C., Sycamore Valley Chiropractic
With the recent series of storms drenching the Bay Area, we are seeing a big increase in car accidents due to the rougher traffic conditions. In many cases, drivers and passengers may suffer from a whiplash injury in which the neck and head are very suddenly accelerated in one direction and then another, i.e. forward to back, or side to side. This sudden motion injures the delicate tissues of the head and neck including the muscles, ligaments, joints, discs, and nerves. Whiplash can cause symptoms like neck pain, back pain, headache, stiffness, tingling, numbness, dizziness, fatigue, etc. However, many people do not seek medical care after being in a car accident. Here are some reasons why many cases of whiplash go untreated. MYTH: The collision is a “low-speed” impact, and victims assume that they have not been injured. But… FACT: Studies have shown injuries occurring in impacts as low as five miles per hour. MYTH: There is little or no visible damage to the car, so it is assumed that the people inside are also unharmed. FACT: Studies have shown that the extent of vehicular damage does not always predict the amount of injury the driver or passenger suffers. MYTH: Whiplash victims very often do not feel any pain or symptoms right away and assume they’re OK. FACT: Studies show that symptoms may not always present right away. Sometimes, patients report pain a couple days, weeks, even months after the accident and may not necessarily connect the problems with the original accident. MYTH: Sometimes whiplash sufferers experience symptoms briefly that go away without treatment, and they assume that they have recovered on their own. FACT: Studies show that symptoms are likely to become chronic for months, years, even decades after if the victim does not receive proper
FAILURE TO LAUNCH SYNDROME
By William Shryer, LCSW, DCSW Clinical Director, Diablo Behavioral Healthcare
“Failure to launch” is the term used to describe a phenomenon that is far more common than most folks think. The term is used to describe young adults, usually males, that seem unable to take the next step in their lives and move into increasing independence and employment. The young adults often have a history of starting school or jobs and not following through and dropping out -- in more ways than one. They often have histories of substance abuse and addictive behaviors. By addictive behaviors, we don’t just mean the use of substances such as drugs and alcohol; we include in this area the over use of computer technology, video games, and Role Playing Games (RPG) such as World of Warcraft, Black Ops, and Diablo 3 to name but a few. When the term computer or internet addiction is used, it usually refers to this type of behavior. Often the teen or young adult will require more and more time gaming in a subconscious attempt to balance their mood and anxiety. Another area that parents are reluctant to talk about is when parents find that their child has been looking at internet pornography to excess. This is understandably disturbing for parents. We often find the child sneaking online to view more and more hardcore sites, often staying up until the wee hours to use the computer uninterrupted. This is far from the old sneak-a-peek at the Playboy Magazine at the barbershop. This is an inability to not look and fantasize, as this is a type of stimulation that affects an area of the brain that needs more and more stimulation to feel balanced. Teens and young adults that are involved in this type of behavior need assistance, not moralizing, as it has very little to do with conscious choice after a while. The pornography becomes a driven, even obsessive need that negatively impacts a large part of their life. If their computer time is restricted, the teen or young adult may experience a deep melancholy and become angry, irritable, and even aggres-
FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 23
or complete treatment. We see this often in our office as a list of symptoms and problems that arise only after a car accident over the span of a long period of time that were not present before. This is why it is important to be checked for injury after any type of vehicular collision by a Doctor of Chiropractic, regardless of whether or not one is experiencing any pain or symptoms. Chiropractors are specially trained in assessing the body structures involved in a whiplash accident and providing drug-free, effective therapies that not only give the whiplash victim relief from pain or discomfort, but can also prevent any symptoms from persisting in the future. This is why studies show that 93% of whiplash patients improve with chiropractic care! At our office, we offer a comprehensive approach for whiplash recovery including chiropractic treatment, physiotherapy, kinesiotaping, rehabilitative exercise, and massage therapy. So, if you have been in a fender bender, don’t wait to see if symptoms show up, and don’t suffer! Get checked by a chiropractor as soon as possible to get back on the road to recovery! 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 sive towards caregivers or parents. They often avoid social encounters, homework, and other daily responsibilities that remind them of what they should be doing which raises their anxiety and plunges them back to the computer and the safety of the game and the fantasy world that is easier to contend with than the real world and its subsequent demands. Some of the characteristics that seem to contribute to this stuck life position are depression - which is usually reactive to their inability to move on, ADHD and the need for constant stimulation, and learning disabilities that not only effect schooling but reading and its impact on educational progress. Young adults with Asperger’s can be prone to this phenomenon as they can perseverate, meaning, get stuck on themes and ideas and not transition to what they need to be doing. All of these things contribute to low self-esteem, academic under achievement, and being unprepared for adulthood, leaving them dependent on their families. Most, if not all of these teens and young adults, have a great potential, even superior IQ’s for developing the awareness needed to move confidently towards a life free of dis-empowering perspectives and negative behaviors and their self-imposed limitations. This is where it “takes a village” to get them back on the right track. Usually, the more typical “how does that make you feel” therapy is a dead end. The village is the family, a guide, or therapist/mentor to begin the transition to adulthood and a good and proper launch! If anyone you know falls into this category there are resources that address this issue and do it well. We are happy to schedule a phone consultation time to point you in the correct direction. 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. Advertorial
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PAGE 24 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
SURGERY IS CONSTANTLY EVOLVING
By Dr. Michael Baker, West Coast Surgical Associates
It takes a minimum of nine years to train to be a surgeon after college. Once the training is completed and a surgeon goes into practice, the education requirement continues. Surgeons will continue to read the newest scientific papers, go to medical meetings for lectures and discussions with other surgeons, and often assist their colleagues in the operating room, consulting with them, and learning from each other. This is a field that undergoes evolutionary change at a rapid rate. It requires incredible devotion to the profession to stay current and competent. It is not just a job, it is truly a calling that requires dedication. There are numerous examples of this evolution. When I started as a surgeon, removal of the gallbladder and operations on related structures required a large open incision extending from the middle of the abdomen to the right flank just below the rib cage. Hospitalization was several days long, fraught with pain and the potential for complications, and had a long recovery period. Surgery then took a step into laparoscopy, opening the field of minimally invasive surgery -- operations that can be performed through small incisions. As we have improved our equipment and techniques, most of our gallbladder patients go home the same day or the next day. Even when they have a complex problem such as a stone lodged in their common bile duct, it can often be handled with another minimally invasive procedure called endoscopy. Many other procedures done by surgeons are now handled using minimally invasive techniques and the rapidly improving technology that goes with it. Now this minimally invasive procedure has undergone several new advances. The original minimally invasive laparoscopic cholecystectomy required a small incision by the umbilicus (bellybutton), and then two or three other instruments are inserted through small incisions in the upper right side of the abdomen. Surgeons have introduced a modification of this
SHEPHERD CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
www.yourmonthlypaper.com minimally invasive procedure that is done through one small single incision at the umbilicus. This is called Single Incision Laparoscopic Surgery (SILS), for which special instruments are developed that allow surgeon to operate through this one small area. Another innovation is the use of the robot to perform the surgery. The robot allows the surgeon enhanced visualization of the operative field, more precise surgical technique, and improved ergonomics for the surgeon which relieves fatigue. I believe robotic surgery will be a major step into the future of surgery. I have used the removal of the gallbladder as an example, but many of the same evolutionary changes now have extended to include minimally invasive and robotic approaches to abdominal wall hernia repair, resections of the colon for cancer, inguinal hernia repair, and bariatric surgery for weight loss. The surgeons of West Coast Surgical Assoicates (WCSA) use all of these techniques – minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery, single incision laparoscopic surgery, robotic laparoscopic surgery, and more as they come into every day practice. Patients have faster recovery, less complications, and an earlier return to normal activities. The field of surgery has and will continue to register a steady stream of breakthroughs, and the practice of surgery will continue to evolve. The technological refinement of our abilities to manipulate the human body has been nothing short of miraculous. The past quarter century has brought minimally invasive procedures and robotics which enhance our capability. This may be followed by nanotechnology -- seeing into the body through the manipulation of small-scale devices that can be injected or swallowed. The possibilities are boundless. Tomorrow’s surgeon will continue in a field standing on the shoulders of today’s pioneers. Through a culture and discipline of lifelong learning, the WCSA surgeons will continue the educational process in order to participate in new developments as they arise in order to provide the best possible surgical outcomes for their patients. Dr. Baker is a board certified General Surgeon, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and a retired US Navy Admiral. He is the Senior Partner of West Coast Surgical Associates (formerly Walnut Creek Surgical Associates) with offices in Walnut Creek, Concord, and San Ramon. For more information call 925-933-0984 or view the surgical team at www.wcsurgeons.com. Advertorial
Of course there are other reasons that these dogs end up in shelters, and thus, in the care of BAGSR. Real estate issues and economics often play a role. Some come from owners who are no longer physically able to care for them. And then there are the rare cases of owner cruelty. Most BAGSR dogs come from shelters where they’ve been abandoned. The 20 volunteer foster families and five board members at BAGSR are dog lovers who give their time to find loving homes for these dogs. The team has fostered and saved more than one thousand German Shepherds and Belgian Malinois to date. Each dog that comes into the BAGSR program is carefully evaluated and then placed into a foster home; no boarding kennels are involved. BAGSR volunteers passionately believe that by living with the dogs, they learn more about them, allowing for proper adoption matches. When applicants adopt a BAGSR dog, the process involves an evaluation of experience and lifestyle with a goal of making a suitable match for both owner and dog. BAGSR also provides ongoing post-adoption support and counseling. “We get to know each and every dog very well,” says Hsu, who is a certified dog behavioral consultant. “We want to keep in touch and make sure that the match is a good one and that everything goes smoothly.” Hsu’s own rescue dog, Contessa, suffered a sad case of abuse. Barely recognizable as a German Shepherd when first found, Contessa had been severely neglected for years. She was critically underweight and had less than 10% of her fur. Rescuers didn’t even know the color of her fur and estimated that due to the severity of her skin damage, she would likely end up with bald spots. But under the loving watch of Hsu, Contessa now weighs a healthy 80 pounds, has all of her fur, and reveals no lasting effects from her neglected condition. “She’s been a wonderful companion,” says Hsu. BAGSR is always seeking foster families: those who are able and willing to provide a temporary home until permanency is found. Fostering can last from one day and up to eight months. BAGSR, through donor funding, pays for all foster care expenses such as medical and food. And there are a multitude of other volunteer positions (for ages 16 and up) that allow volunteers to work just a few minutes each week or more. Many roles don’t require travel; others are event related. Choose from transporting dogs, social media work, blog writing, website updating, manning the hotline, responding to emails, or fundraising. “The main criteria for involvement is that you love dogs,” says Hsu. “Our ultimate goal is to save dogs.” While funds are always needed, BAGSR also seeks a donation or a loan of a piece of land at which rescued dogs can be held temporarily. “We can turn a land parcel into a home and be able to save more dogs,” says Hsu. “It is always our hope that in the future we can provide free obedience, behavioral and training classes, and a place where volunteers can play with the in-program dogs and provide education for those who wish to learn about dog care and the breed in general.” If you can help, please contact Susan Hsu at susan@bayareagsr.org. Contessa - Before and after.
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OUR FAVORITE COMBOS
By Dr. Jerome Potozkin
Each New Year we see people who decide that they would like to turn back the clock without surgery. Non-invasive skin and aesthetic treatments have dramatically evolved this decade. This is because there is a huge demand for procedures and treatments that can help people look their best without undergoing the knife. People have different motivations in their wishes to look their best. It is much more than simple vanity. For some it is a simple desire to look their best. Others may have a big event such as a wedding or reunion. With people working longer, many of our patients feel they need to look their best to compete in the job market, especially in the Bay Area tech arena. I have also treated people in sales who have noticed that when they look their best they see a direct reflection in their sales and commissions. This month we will explore a very popular treatment combination combining Fraxel Laser treatments with Ultherapy. These incredible devices can help turn back the hands of time with minimal to no downtime. As we age, a number of things happen to our face. Some of the changes we see are a result of our genetics, whereas others are a result of environmental factors such as exposure to ultraviolet radiation. The sun destroys collagen and elastin, resulting in textural changes, wrinkle formation, as well a contribution to the appearance of unwanted brown spots and broken capillaries. Daily sunscreen and a topically applied antioxidant are great preventative measures. However, many people require more to correct these changes. In addition to textural and color changes, genetic factors and sun exposure can result in skin sag. Many residents of our community have found that the Fraxel Laser can dramatically improve the color and texture of their skin. The Fraxel was the first “fractionated” laser. This was an incredible innovation in laser treatments. Instead of the laser hitting the entire skin surface, it hits small microscopic treatment zones like pixels on an LCD panel. Treating the skin this way can heat deep into the skin, resulting in dramatic changes in color and texture with
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 14t,h 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 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
FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 25
minimal downtime. Most people require a series of treatments to get the desired result. Last year we upgraded our system to the improved Fraxel Dual. This device actually has two lasers in one, bringing much better results in both color and texture than previous devices. These treatments are done in a series, waiting about a month between treatments. Topical anesthetic cream is applied one hour prior to treatment. For people with more significant damage who can take a week or two off from their social calendar, the Fraxel Repair CO2 laser can yield more dramatic change in just one treatment. The best treatment for sagging skin has been and currently is a facelift. For patients desiring the results seen with a facelift, I typically recommend seeing a plastic surgeon. We see many people who would never dream of having a face lift and are seeking a non-surgical alternative for skin tightening. They might be afraid of general anesthesia or surgical risks, or they may simply not have ability to take time off from work. Over the last few years Ultherapy has become one of the more popular non-surgical skin tightening devices. This technology uses microfocused ultrasound to heat deep into the skin. The outer layers of the skin remain intact, and the energy is focused deep into the skin the layer of tissue known as the SMAS. This is what is tightened during a facelift. Some people will see immediate results, but for most there is a gradual change over 3-6 months. This treatment can be performed on a Friday, and you can be back to work on Monday. In 2016, New Beauty Magazine awarded Ultherapy “Best Nonsurgical Skin Tightener.” A great combination is to do Fraxel and Ultherapy together. The Fraxel treats skin color and textural changes, while Ultherapy helps tighten the skin to minimize skin sag. Once we’ve turned back the clock, you’ll want to maintain the results with a custom designed medical grade skincare regimen which includes daily sunscreen, topical antioxidants, and a topical retinoid. If you’re interested in looking your best and are not interested in surgery, call us today to schedule a complimentary consultation. 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 www.Potozkin.com Advertorial for more information. 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. Advertorial com.
The “Good Old Days” are now!
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Douglas Scott DRE#00859191 | Kevin Corstorphine DRE#01944908
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Kevin@alisonmortgage.com | www.alisonmortgage.com
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PAGE 26 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
PREGNANCY MATTERS
MENOPAUSE MATTERS
By Timothy Leach, MD, FACOG, CNMP
The following are my original thoughts and highlights from a North American Menopause Society e-Consult article from January 2017 by Lisa Larkin MD Genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is an area of unmet medical need for many women. Genitourinary syndrome of menopause affects over 50% of postmenopausal women. Unlike “hot flashes” which go away on average within seven years after a woman’s final menstrual period, bothersome vaginal dryness progressively gets worse with time. Prevalence data estimates that over 30 million women suffer from GSM, but less then 10% are told about effective treatment options. The loss of circulating estrogen allows for changes in the microbiome of the vagina which alters the vaginal pH allowing for colonization with pathogenic bacteria, resulting in decreased elasticity, less moisture and lubrication, and increased tissue fragility. The dryness can be daily or just with intimacy, both negatively affecting a woman’s sexual health, intimacy, partner relationships, and quality of life. First line treatments are over-the-counter nonhormone moisturizers and lubricants which can reduce symptoms, but they are often inadequate because they do not correct the underlying tissue changes. Just like when your hands are dry and benefit from moisturizing lotion, the vagina can benefit with similar products that are made especially for the vagina. Products from lubrigynusa.com or pjurusa. com offer a wide variety of options that are proven safe and effective. Estrogen therapy which restores the vaginal pH and microbiome, either systemic or local, effectively treats GSM. Sadly, about 40% of women taking systemic (oral or transdermal) therapy don’t get sufficient relief of their vaginal dryness. Systemic estrogen should only be used in women who are having hot flashes. Otherwise, if vaginal dryness is your only complaint, low dose estrogen can be administered vaginally. The three low-dose options for the vagina are a pill, cream, and a ring which deliver a cumulative annual exposure less then systemic estrogen. These products are low dose and only administered twice weekly (pills and cream) which is why they are OK to be taken unopposed, without any progesterone. Use of vaginal estrogen in survivors of breast cancer remains controversial. Despite a recent American Congress of Ob/Gyn 2016 position statement supporting the use of vaginal estrogen therapy as an option for patients with breast cancer, citing the lack of data showing an increase in breast cancer recurrence in users, many women are unwilling to use this treatment option. This unmet need has led to research into other options. Ospemiphene, an orally administered selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM) taken daily, was approved in 2013 to treat painful intimacy associated with GSM. Although animal models and changes in breast density suggest a reduction in breast cancer risk with Ospemiphene, the package labeling indicates that since it has not been studied in breast cancer patients, it should not be used in women with this history. Vaginal DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) was approved in 2016 by the FDA as the newest option to treat moderate to severe painful intimacy associated with GSM. It is biologically plausible that DHEA may alleviate GSM symptoms because DHEA is metabolized to Estrone and Testosterone in the vaginal lining. The once daily 6.5 mg ovule placed in the vagina at bedtime decreased patient symptoms in trials lasting up to 12 months. The most common side effect noted in 6% of women was a vaginal discharge. No serious treatment adverse events were noted when given for up to 52 weeks, and there was no postmenopausal bleeding. A history of breast cancer is not necessarily a contraindication, although the package insert states that it has not been studied in breast cancer patients. Next month I will review the latest treatment paradigm which does not involve the use of any medicines and HAS been studied in breast cancer patients and proven to both safe and efficacious. The newest option involves the use of fractional CO2 laser for vaginal rejuvenation. MonaLisa Touch, approved by the FDA in 2015 for use in the vagina has been used worldwide for over eight years by well over 30 million women. I was the first Ob/Gyn physician in the East Bay to offer MonaLisa Touch and have treated well over 80 women in the past year with ~85% patient satisfaction, consistent with published scientific studies. If you don’t want to wait to read about MonaLisa Touch in next month’s column, visit our NEW website leachobgyn.com or call to make an appointment to review your treatment options. Visit my website at www.leachobgyn.com for links to resources and our Facebook page, Timothy Leach MD, for more information. My office is located at 110 Tampico, Suite 210 in Walnut Creek. Please call us at 925-935-6952. Advertorial
EXERCISE By Dr. Theresa Gipps
You probably know a mother’s health during pregnancy plays an important role in her baby’s health. But did you know it is also important for your health in future pregnancies and long after baby is born? Weight, weight gain during pregnancy, and exercise are common topics pregnant women want to discuss at office visits. ‘What exercises are safe in pregnancy?’ ‘How much weight should I gain; am I on track?’ Below I will discuss exercise in pregnancy. In the next column, I will review recommendations for weight gain.
DURING PREGNANCY
Healthy women with a normal pregnancy can usually continue most exercises safely. Being physically active does not increase your risk of miscarriage or early delivery. Exercise has many benefits: it can decrease back pain, support healthy weight gain, decrease constipation, and improve your overall fitness. The Centers for Disease Control recommends pregnant women get at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise each week. During moderate intensity activity, you will feel like you are working out: your heart and breathing rate increase, your body temperature increases and you may sweat, and you can talk but may need to pause while talking or take a breath every few sentences. Examples include brisk walking, hiking, yoga, and casual biking. Women who exercise at high intensity before pregnancy can often continue their exercises during pregnancy. Examples include running and interval or ‘boot camp’ exercises. If you are starting an exercise program when you are pregnant, you may need to start slowly. Start exercising 5-10 minutes at a time, and increase until you can exercise 30 minutes or more. Changes in your body during pregnancy will affect how you feel during exercise, and they may affect your ability to work out. Changes early in pregnancy affect your breathing and oxygenation. You may become short of breath faster or need to take more frequent breaks. Hormones in pregnancy relax the ligaments around your joints. Make sure your form is correct, and consider avoiding high impact or jerking movements to protect your joints. Your balance may be affected as your belly grows. Take precautions to prevent falls. Make sure you stay well hydrated, and wear a supportive bra. Consider a belly belt for comfort. Women with certain high risk pregnancies should not exercise without talking to a doctor. Examples of high risk pregnancies may include: • Serious lung or heart disease (not mild asthma) • Pregnancy related high blood pressure (pre-eclampsia) • Preterm labor, or risk for preterm delivery, including twin or triplet pregnancies • Cervical cerclage • Placenta previa after 26 weeks of pregnancy Some exercises and activities are unsafe in any pregnancy. Avoid activities which risk a fall or getting hit in the abdomen - boxing, basketball, soccer, skydiving, horseback riding, downhill or water skiing, and surfing. Do not scuba dive. Avoid activities which may cause you to overheat such as ‘hot’ or Bikram yoga or Pilates.
AFTER PREGNANCY
If you had an uncomplicated, vaginal delivery, it is typically safe to begin exercising as soon as a few days after giving birth or when you feel ready. You may need to resume your activities slowly at first - listen to your body. Starting exercise can help you get back to your pre-pregnancy weight, strengthen and tone your abdominal muscles, boost your energy, promote good sleep, and relieve stress. It can be hard to find the time and energy to exercise with a new baby, but it is best for both of you in the long run! Try bringing your baby in a stroller, looking for mommy-friendly options (Fit4Mom Danville, Moms groups), or just doing exercises on the floor next to your baby. If you had a cesarean section, an extensive vaginal repair, or complicated pregnancy, you will likely need to wait longer to resume regular exercise.
BREASTFEEDING
Exercise does not affect your production of breast milk, so it should not affect your baby’s growth. As always, if you have specific questions or concerns check with your doctor. Happy exercising! Dr Gripps practices at Leach OBGYN. For questions and information call 925-935-6952, email leachobgyn@gmail.com, or visit their NEW website www. leachobgyn.com for articles and other important health education information. The office is located at 110 Tampico, Suite 210 in Walnut Creek. Advertorial
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RAISE YOUR HAND IF YOU WISH PARENTING CAME WITH A GUIDE BOOK!
By Joree Rosenblatt, MA, LMFT
Almost everything you buy comes with an instruction manual. Even the super obvious items, like a blow dryer or a water bottle, have directions for use, care, cleaning, and optimal function. Whenever I see these instructions, I always feel a bit like, “Do the makers of this think I’m an idiot?! Of course I know to plug the blow dryer in before use, and to not use it while taking a bath!” And yet, one of the most important things you’ll ever acquire in your life comes with zero instructions. As you are discharged from the hospital, you aren’t given a free copy of a “child-rearing bible” with everything from “what to do with toddler who won’t eat” to “how to handle separation anxiety from a school-aged child” or “how to stay calm when my teenager is acting out.” It’d be so helpful if there was an index containing every single topic relating to kids ages 0-18 (at least!) that you could thumb through to find the keyword for your crisis of the moment. Alas, there is no such manual that we come home from the hospital with. Many, or most, pregnant mothers take a handful of prenatal classes to learn what to expect at every week of their pregnancy, how to craft their ideal birthing plans, what kind of questions to ask when interviewing pediatricians, as well as breastfeeding, swaddling, and tips for sleeping through the night. But hardly any parent takes a class on actually how to be a parent. Parenting is often a combination of intuition, how one was raised (or the opposite of how they were raised); advice (often unsolicited) from friends, family, in-laws; and information we find on the internet or books. And of course, parents rely on their immense love for their child to get them through challenging moments. Some of what we do works, and some doesn’t; we use trial and error in the hopes that we have more successes than failures and that we aren’t giving our kids too much fodder for their future therapist. While all the above-mentioned guidance is helpful and can help through struggles, it sometimes isn’t always enough. I mean, you wouldn’t ever accept
FEBRUARY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 27
a job that you had no education, training, or previous experience in, right? But that’s often what parenting can feel like. So, sometimes we need to get training. I received a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. Before I was able to utilize my degree to work towards my license as a therapist, I was a full-time stay -at-home mom for over eight years. My feeling then was if my education in psychology helped me be a better mother, then it was worth it. Well, it turns out, 17 years after getting my degree, I finally got licensed as a therapist. While I take my parenting very seriously, and have the education and background to prime me for it, that still didn’t mean I always knew what to do, nor did I always feel good about how I handled something. I found myself getting frustrated with the day-to-day stuff. I would raise my voice, which didn’t always result in effective discipline. I sometimes felt more disconnected rather than connected to my daughters. Afew years later, as I was on a quest to discover tools for my own growth, I stumbled upon mindfulness, which is the practice of living in the present moment, developing greater awareness, and learning how to accept what is. Practicing this greater awareness also allowed for greater ability at managing difficult emotions as well as how to respond and not react. Through deepening both my professional and personal mindful exploration, I became very passionate about mindful parenting. This seemed, in part, the closest answer to “where was my guide on how to parent?” I learned tools that shifted the entire culture in my home with my girls. This is not to say I no longer got triggered, but my ability to notice those triggers, with less reactivity, increased as did my ability to have greater compassion for whatever my daughters were experiencing, as well as compassion for myself when it was really challenging. I was also then able to role model the very behaviors I was asking of my kids. I realized it didn’t really make sense to scream at my kids to calm down when I clearly wasn’t calm. If any of this resonates with your parenting experience, I am offering a parenting workshop on Sunday March 19th from 1-5pm at the Bay Area Mindfulness and Therapy Center. Parenting with greater awareness, compassion, and presence is a four-hour experiential workshop highlighting such tools as finding the joy amidst the chaos, learning to respond instead of react, embracing the unexpected challenges of parenting, and developing effective discipline that decreases yelling and frustration. If you are interested, please visit www.mindfulnessandtherapycenter.com or contact me at joree@comcast.net. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. Joree Rosenblatt is a licensed marriage and family therapist and founder of The Bay Area Mindfulness and Therapy Center in Danville. License #93545 Advertorial
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PAGE 28 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • FEBRUARY 2017
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DANVILLE REAL ESTATE: HOMES SELL IN ABOUT A MONTH
Home Sales Danville (Oct. 1- Jan.20) Pending Sold DOM List Price Sold Price Sq. Foot $ Sq. Foot 2015-2016 51 184 35 $ 1,136,792 $ 1,127,875 2,500 $ 469 2016-2017 40 207 37 $ 1,131,534 $ 1,112,251 2,519 $ 458 % Change -22% 23% 6% -1% -1% 1% -2%
Last year we prayed for rain, this year not so much. All the while, Danville had another great year in real estate in 2016, with prices rising as they have been since the end of 2011. Lately, I have been sensing that the circus of an election we just went through combined with another Fed interest hike might be causing a little air to slip out of our balloon. I took a look at a quarter’s worth of data from October 1, 2016 plus our current data through January 20th to see if my intuition is on target. What we can see is the number of pending sales has decreased while the number of sold homes is significantly higher. Pending sales are down 22% from 51 to 40. It’s a big drop and might suggest buyers are feeling nervous about making a commitment or they just can’t find a home they love in the small bunch for sale. However, the number of sold homes are up 23% from 184-207, and implies the change is fairly recent. List price for the sold homes has decreased dipping from $1,136,792 to $1,131,534. That’s a bit of a slip compared to this time last year. Danville also experienced a negative change in sold price which also slipped about 1% from $1,127,875 to $1,112,251. I would think a change this small at the slowest part of the selling season probably says more about market seasonality than it signals a significant shift in a long term trend. Time will tell. Before we get overly excited about the negative price changes exhibited here, we should take a look at the relative size of the homes sold and the price buyers paid per square foot. That number is just slightly negative, about 2%. This shouldn’t be a surprise as in a normal market homes that sell in the spring tend to sell for more than homes that sell in the winter. Home size decreased by about 1% and is in line with last year. Overall, price paid per square foot
Danville Single Story
dipped from $469 to $458. This little bit of seasonal decline is a pretty good sign that Danville is becoming a more normal market. Also, since the $458 per square foot is less than what was being paid last spring, it’s good indication that normal seasonality is back. Days on market increased a wee bit from 35 days to 37 days indicating a relatively hot market with no sign of cooling. Danville inventory of homes for sale continues to be low with only 58 homes for sale at this time. If we ever see this number break 150 we will know we are in a normal market once again. The Danville market has rebounded, is fully recovered, and there is every reason to believe home prices will continue to advance. Outside of a doomsday scenario, it’s hard to imagine the Danville market reversing direction. While rising, interest rates are low, and most likely will remain low for a long time. This bodes well for continued market appreciation in Danville. Rain or shine, I suspect we will have another very good year in Danville Real Estate. Want to receive this article via email? Sign up on our website www.thecombsteam.com or send me an email with “Subscribe Danville” in the subject line. Trying to figure out your next move? Need numbers and answers to your fix up questions to make your decision? Nancy and I will be happy to provide you with a personal consultation, including a multi-dimensional analysis of your home’s current value, to help you figure it out. No charge and no pressure just our honest opinions. Please call 925-989-6086 or send me an email joecombs@ thecombsteam.com.
Downsize to Downtown
SO
LD
Danville Single Story
L SO
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Downsizer’s dream home. A perfect “10”. Three bedrooms, two bath. Priced to sell $915,000.
Beautiful penthouse condo with two master suites. Walk to downtown Pleasant Hill. Priced to sell $419,000.
Multiple offers. $102,000 over asking price!
Blackhawk Area
West Side Alamo Single Story
Award Winning Realtors
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Elegant Mediterranean style 4 bedroom 3.5 bath home with pool/spa. 1st floor MB suite w/2 walk-in closets. Priced to Sell $1,350,000
Single Level 4 bedroom on .86 acres. Backs to the Iron Horse Trail. Priced to Sell $1,249,000
Data presented in this column is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Contra Costa and Alameda MLS service and other quoted sources. Joe Combs, Nancy Combs, The Combs Team, J. Rockcliff and the MLS service do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. DRE #0144125.
Top 5% in Sales Production J. Rockcliff Realtors 15 Railroad Ave., Danville CA. 94526