2023 FEBRUARY ~ Alamo Today & Danville Today News

“STIR CRAZY QUILTS” COLORFUL COMPOSITIONS TUNING OUT THE QUARANTINE BLUES

By Jody Morgan

“Stir Crazy Quilts” opens at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley on February 1 st and continues through May 31 st The show presents 40 brilliant examples of colorful creations produced by stitchers while coping with COVID confinement. Quilts on display range in size from portrait-scale collage designs to full-size traditional coverlets. Each comes with the stitcher’s story of its creation during the months beginning in March 2020 when the pandemic lockdown cut off ordinary in-person social connections. Free one-hour quilting demonstrations will be offered the fourth Tuesday of each month from 1-2PM beginning in February with instruction in making a pillowcase, back binding, or bowl cozy.

Arden Dougan’s “Quinevere the Quarantine Queen” is a humorous reflection of the faces many of us encountered in the mirror or met on Zoom calls. Recalling the time when the crowning achievement of one’s day was scoring a

few rolls of toilet tissue, Dougan festoons her lady’s royal pate with the iconic paper product. Describing additional aspects of the composition, Arden notes: “She is wearing fuzzy PJs. Her eyes are bloodshot from too much computer time (she works all the time). It’s raining COVID. And there’s Dr. Fauci on the wall.

See Quilts continued on page 10

FRIENDS OF THE DANVILLE LIBRARY BOOK SALE

The Friends of the Danville Library (FODL) will host a pop-up used book sale to raise money for our local library. There will be books of all genres and for all ages. Most hardbacks will be priced at $2 and most paperbacks at $1. Recent publications and some gorgeous coffee table books will be slightly higher. Cash, local checks, and credit cards will be accepted.

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

The next book sale will be held Saturday, February 25th from 10am to 2pm. Proceeds from the sale go towards funding library programs and purchasing library materials.

BOOK DONATIONS

Book donations will be accepted during the sale. Please limit donations to four bags per day, per donor.

OTHER WAYS TO HELP

Have you been traveling and have some extra foreign bills or coins? Bring them in and donate it to the Friends of the Danville Library. Do you have any of those BART paper tickets lying around? Bring them in and the Friends can submit to BART under their Tiny Tickets program See Books continued on page 13

SRV GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

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

You are invited to join the Tuesday, February 21st, 10AM ZOOM meeting with a presentation by Candice Buchanan entitled “Genealogy and Family History Research From Home Using Library of Congress Online Sources.” Candice is a Reference Librarian at the Library of Congress in Washington D.C., specializing in local history and genealogy. She has developed guides and presentations that address state-specific research, family photographs, and finding female ancestors.

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

Arden Dougan with “Atomic Annie” created during an online class offered by Wooden Gate Quilts.

Julia Mcleod is backed by “Cocktail” - a thoroughly modern take on a traditional pattern.

BOULEVARD VIEW

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor and Publisher

I’ve received some great feedback from my last two columns which included lists that resonated with me. I’m a list maker at heart, my mom was a list maker (always using an index card written with a black Flair pen with “to do’s” listed), and it appears many of you are list makers as well. Growing up a favorite book of mine was “The Book of Lists.” I remember pouring over the random and fun collections of information, spending many a day engrossed in the data.

I came across another list that resonated with me and can apply to all of us. The list was from a 2014 article in a “Maria’s Farm Country Kitchen” post. It is titled, “What It Means to Be a Leader, 11 Tips” (See www.mariasfarmcountrykitchen.com/what-it-means-tobe-a-leader-11-tips for the full post).

We all have the potential to be leaders. I think it’s incumbent on each of us to step up and make a difference where we can, using the skills that make us who we are. One area where leadership is key is in the services sphere. The weeks of rainy weather amplified the need we have for many different services to help us through various situations. Many of us have found long waits for services or repairs to our homes, our neighborhoods, and our communities when there is not enough workforce to address all of our needs. Sometimes we need to learn how to take charge and tackle the issues ourselves.

In Maria Rodale’s 11 leadership tips she notes, “Whether you’re running a business or a department, being a parent, or leading an adventurous expedition, the following advice can help you be a better leader.” Here are the highlights of her wisdom.

ALAMO WORLD TRAVEL INVITES YOU TO OUR Beyond the Ordinary Luxury Travel Event

Wednesday, February 22, 2023

1 pm - 4 pm

Blackhawk Museum

3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville, CA

Join us for refreshments and to learn more about exciting itineraries and excursions available on luxury expedition, small ship and river cruises, plus luxury land or rail tours and private jet journeys.

1. You need to see things other people aren’t willing to see yet. Leaders need to really see things, acknowledge them, and then adapt and respond to them—and try to convince their teams that it’s important to see them, too....But a real leader needs to see the truth and not waver.

2. People are waiting for you to make the tough decisions. If you’re the leader, look around the room at your team. Yes, they are looking at you and waiting with bated breath to hear what your decision is.

3. You take responsibility and accountability for everything in your domain. Everything. Even if it’s not your fault. Even if you didn’t do it. Even if it’s embarrassing. You don’t “throw anyone under the bus.” You own it, deal with it, and move on. We all make mistakes and it’s not the end of the world.

4. Your job is not to be loved, but to do the right thing. Too many times our desire to be liked and loved causes us to delay making tough decisions, even though we know they need to be made. It can be hard to separate those feelings of neediness from the need to get things done, but things must get done.

5. Your job is to do the right thing, with love. There is a place for love in the life of a leader. In fact, that place is everywhere and with everything and everybody. No matter what you do, it’s always better done with love.

6. If you don’t believe in what you are doing, no one else will either. Real leadership is about creating a vision in your heart and mind and bringing the energy of manifestation to that vision so that others can see and believe in it too. That’s why…

Thank You to our Community from Fostering Wishes

Fostering Wishes would like to express gratitude to our incredible community. With everyone’s efforts, the holidays were brighter for more than 600 foster children . The community’s collective impact was huge. It was our best year yet! We are grateful for your heartfelt support of the kids and Fostering Wishes.

We are grateful to our local businesses, individuals, and organizations that supported us in remarkable ways such as sharing their storefronts for trees and tags, assembling our displays, donating new clothes and makeup, providing incentives to take a tag and return a gift, and more.

We want to thank those that donated almost 3,000 gifts and monetary contributions!

We are indebted to our dedicated volunteers that got Fostering Wishes to where we are! They worked tirelessly. Santa is trying to steal many of our top elves for himself next year!

Thank you all for “Lending a Hand and Changing a Life!"

7. You NEED to believe. Call it passion, call it vision, call it power—it’s really the power of believing in what you’re doing that enables you to accomplish your goals.

8. But you also need contingency plans. Surprises happen, usually daily. What’s your backup plan? Doing scenario planning in your mind is helpful. But don’t overdo it, because you might become distracted from your initial goal. Try to keep your vision clear and strong, but be prepared to adapt quickly.

9. Sacrifice and long hours don’t really matter, results matter. Hard work and sacrifice don’t automatically lead to success; more often, it’s creative ideas, strategic intelligence, and innovation that lead to real advancement.

10. Get out of your comfort zone, and do new things and encourage your teams to do so, too, because that’s where creative ideas, strategic intelligence, and innovation come from. Travel. Learn. Talk to people. If you do the same things over and over again, you’re going to get either the same results or slightly worse results over time. The only way to get new ideas is to do new things.

11. Listen and observe. If you can quiet your own mind and focus your eyes, usually the answers are there to be seen and heard. Leadership isn’t about just talking and making speeches and communicating—it’s about watching, sitting with people, and truly hearing them—then taking it all in and going back to #1 to be willing to see things that other people aren’t yet willing to see.

Fostering Wishes is an Alamo-based nonprofit. For more information, visit fosteringwishes.org or Instagram @fostering.wishes. EIN 88-3935030

There is much need, and many opportunities, for leadership. Seize the moment to step up and make a difference. Your family, neighborhood, and community need you.

Without a doubt, Residential and Residential Income Real Estate has encountered a complex, unprecedented and unpredictable market these past two years. Highs in the market were established the first quarter of 2022. The last half of 2022 were very slow in our market and across the United States.

Now the question on everyone’s mind is: What is in store for our market in 2023? Every individual’s circumstance is unique. However, I personally see prices declining at a minimum the first half of this year.

Feel free to call me to discuss your unique questions for 2023.

925.786.1855

“Donny is not just a ‘Real Estate agent’. He is a skilled real estate investor and advisor with strategies including tax, legal, 1031 exchanges, long term planning and cash flow. This is our fourth transaction with Donny in 2 years and we are excited about our future!”

Results. Pure and Simple.

Don Magalhaes

925.786.1855

don@compass.com

RECREATION EXPO & OPEN HOUSE ~ FEBRUARY 4

Get an inside look at the Town of Danville Recreation, Arts, & Community Services classes and programs at the 13th annual Recreation Expo & Open House to be held on Saturday, February 4th

Instructors will be on hand to answer questions and help the community learn more about the programs offered, such as swim lessons, summer day camps, and youth, adult, and senior activities in areas such as art, cooking, fitness, foreign languages, and more.

The event will take place between10AM and 1PM and will be spread among three locations, with different activities at each site:

• Danville Community Center, 420 Front Street

• Village Theatre & Art Gallery, 233 Front Street

• Danville Senior Center at the Veterans Building, 115 E. Prospect Avenue

Activities for all ages and interests will be covered over the three sites, which are within less than five minutes walking distance of each other. Attendees are encouraged to start at the Danville Senior Center, then walk to the Village Theatre & Art Gallery, then along to the Community Center.

The theme for this year’s event is Willy Wonka, and guests will have the opportunity to get a “Golden Ticket” to register early for spring classes and summer camps. The Recreation, Arts & Community Services mascot, Auggie the Acorn, will be at the event, and is hosting a Willy Wonka-style scavenger hunt, looking for Wonka characters in each building. Guests who complete the scavenger hunt can collect your Golden Ticket and be entered into a chance to win raffle prizes.

Spring Activity Guides and Summer Camps brochures have been mailed to Danville, Alamo, and Diablo residents and are also available online at www. danville.ca.gov/activityguide. Registration for spring programs, summer camps, and aquatics begins on February 14th. Open registration for all other spring programs will begin on February 21st. To prepare for registration, please update your registration account at www.danville.ca.gov/recguide

For more information, contact the Danville Community Center at 925-3143400 or recreation@danville.ca.gov.

FREE TAX PREPARATION

Free tax preparation is again being offered by AARP Tax-Aide. The service is provided by volunteer IRS-certified tax counselors. Tax-Aide does not have an income limit, but helps low to moderate income taxpayers of any age, with special attention given to seniors 50 plus. Appointments and information are available by calling 925-272-0902 for the Danville

Your participation helps Hope Hospice care for more than 2,000 East Bay neighbors each year. Money raised through registrations and supporting donations benefits patient care and helps keep grief support, dementia education, and caregiver resources available to the public at no charge.

Hospice prior to March 31 so that their

1470 Danville Blvd #5, Alamo Townhouse Sold at: $675,000

3256 Anita Court, Castro Valley Duplex Purchased at: $1,000,000

- Patrick and Gemma Scalise

2023 CALL FOR APPLICANTS FOR KIWANIS FOUNDATION AWARDS

The San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation will be awarding over $35,000 in grants to Tri-Valley non-profit agencies this year. The grants will be presented at the club’s annual Grants Breakfast ceremony that will be held in May at the Round Hill Country Club.

Applications for a grant will need to be made to John Lineweaver, Chairman, SRV Kiwanis Grants Committee, P.O. Box 680, Alamo, CA 94507 after February 1st and before the close on March 1st, 2023. Full details can be found at www.srvkiwanis.org/grants

Kiwanis of San Ramon Valley has awarded nearly $790,000 through their grants program since 1995. In 2022, Grants totaled $39,300 and ranged from $500 to $2,500.

Funds for the annual grants program are raised by the San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation, primarily through the solicitation of sponsorships of the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville, which the Kiwanis Club has been organizing and conducting since 1975. Several thousand dollars is held in reserve to provide emergency grants and fund additional Kiwanis community projects throughout the year.

Gopher/Mole Removal No Poison

925-765-4209

Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Founded in 1915, Kiwanis International is a thriving organization of service and community-minded individuals who support children and young adults around the world. More than 600,000 Kiwanis improve the world around them by addressing needs in their communities and pooling their resources to address worldwide issues. Through these efforts, Kiwanis International truly is “Serving the Children of the World.”

Additional information about the Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley may be obtained at www.srvkiwanis.org. The club normally holds weekly luncheon meetings at noon every Thursday at Black Bear Diner in Danville, where all are welcome to join the club for a meeting and find out more about the organization.

DAW-AAUW PRESENTS

WHAT’S NEXT AFTER FOSTER CARE?

Come join the Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek branch of American Association of University Women (AAUW) for their Third Thursday meeting on February 16th from 6-8PM. The meeting will be held at the Greenbrook Clubhouse, located at 300 Greenbrook Drive, Danville. In addition to social time, speakers Roshawn Campbell, Coordinator for CSU East Bay Renaissance Scholars, and Britt Wade, LCSW, Workforce Development Manager for Family Harvest Farm, will share their important work supporting transitioning foster care youth.

The Renaissance Scholars Program, founded in 2006, aims to ensure that all former foster youth who enter Cal State University East Bay (CSUEB) as undergraduate students complete their degree in order to be successful in the next chapter of their lives. The program promotes the holistic development and graduation rates (70%!) of former foster youth attending CSUEB by providing comprehensive support services through collaboration with a variety of university departments and community organizations. This critical support includes access to housing, books, supplies, financial aid, and counseling.

To attend, RSVP via the branch event webpage daw-ca.aauw.net/2023feb

Learn about becoming an AAUW member of the Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek branch at daw-ca.aauw.net/members/join. The group provides a great way to meet like-minded people through programs and advocacy activities that focus on advancing equity for women. In addition, you can enjoy interest groups such as Art/Garden, Bridge, Gourmet, Great Decisions, Literature, Movies, and Needle Arts!

HELP! VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO GIVE RIDES TO SENIORS AND VETERANS

Mobility Matters is a nonprofit agency that gives rides to seniors and veterans in Contra Costa County. Volunteer drivers are needed to escort seniors to medical appointments and grocery shopping. Volunteers must be 25 to 75 years old. Please call Mobility Matters at (925) 284-2215 for more details. You can learn more about Mobility Matters at www.mobilitymatterscc.com .

ALAMO PUBLIC SAFETY

TOWN HALL

Supervisor Candace Andersen, Sheriff David Livingston, Lt. Wooden, and Alamo Deputy Wallace will provide an update on public safety in Alamo. The event will be held at Stone Valley Middle School, 3001 Miranda Ave., Alamo on Wednesday, February 22nd at 6 PM

To learn more email Cameron.Collins@bos.cccounty.us or call 925-655-2300.

THE HISTORY OF EAST CONTRA COSTA COUNTY

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is excited to announce a free virtual program that will explore the rich history of the east county of Contra Costa County.

The program will be held on Thursday, February 16th at 11:30AM and will feature noted local historian, college professor and long time east county resident Carol Jensen. Ms. Jensen will discuss the early Native American residents, settlers, landmarks, and historical events that have shaped the community. She will also discuss the growth of the region in the 20th century.

To attend this free online presentation, visit museumsrv.org and go to the “Events” section.

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

THE GATTI REPORT: YOUR GREATER DANVILLE AREA REAL ESTATE UPDATE

By Joe Gatti

As this newspaper hits mailboxes, we are at the cusp of our local spring real estate market, which historically begins in mid-February. What have we learned in the first month of 2023? We learned rain storms can still pummel California! Regarding local real estate, we learned that this past December and January resembled slower winter cycles with lower buyer activity due to the holidays, higher interest rates, and three continuous weeks of winter rain storms. On Thursday January 12 th we did receive good news, the Consumer Price Index for December was released showing inflation had done what many had hoped. It went down! As a result, the National Media in the coming months will shift their stories from inflation to US companies and their employment levels. The news stories will likely be gloomy, but watch for our local real estate market to show clear signs of heading in the right direction.

Buyer activity in December and January resembled pre-pandemic levels, which historically have always been the slowest months in our market. Between December 18th and January 18th, Alamo, Blackhawk, Danville, Diablo, and San Ramon only had 39 detached properties close escrow. For perspective, 74 detached properties sold during the same time-frame last year. This was a 47% inventory decline. * One year ago, the median sold price was $2,200,000, while last month it was $1,710,000! This was a 22% decline that was largely due to buyers postponing their home searches for the holidays after experiencing months of mortgage interest rate volatility in the summer and fall. What we can currently say is that the outlook for buyers and sellers is changing for the better, because of interest rates!

Why the upbeat outlook on mortgage interest rates? The December inflation reading came in at 6.5% on January 12 th, down from 7.1% in November, and down further from its highest point of 9.1% in June of 2022. With inflation receding predictably month after month, markets are anticipating that the Federal Reserve will make smaller and fewer rate increases as we go forward. The current consensus is that the Fed will raise .25 basis points at their next meeting on February 1 st. If inflation readings continue to come in lower, interest rates will then stabilize downward. The average 30 year fixed interest rate decreased in mid-January to 6.23%, the lowest since September 2022. Buyer mortgage applications, as a result, went up 28% that week. ** Once interest rate stability becomes established, buyers will become more confident and our local market’s activity will increase.

With inflation finally cooling, the national news media shifted their attention to how large companies like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and Goldman Sachs have recently announced layoffs due to lower end-of-year profits. We will see more of this in other industries as the year continues because interest rate increases have finally become detrimental for most corporations. The real estate industry, however, was the first to see these changes in May and June of last year, with the most visible changes for our local housing market occurring in the summer and fall. We will now get to a place of more secure footing as we go forward into 2023. If you have questions on the value of your home as we enter the spring market, please reach out for a private consultation. Our services and full time local experience will help you price your home correctly. We look forward to seeing you in the coming months!

I hope you found this article helpful. I’ve been serving our real estate community for 11 years. Ron Gatti, my business partner and father, has been a full-time real estate professional for over 40 years, all in the greater Danville area. We both are Associate Brokers with Compass out of the 760 Camino Ramon (Suite 200) office in Danville. If you have any real estate questions during this extraordinary time or have questions about this article, please email GattiRealEstate@gmail.com or call Joe Gatti at 925-588-3590. Our services are here for you!

*Data taken from the MLS during specific dates and under the criteria mentioned within the article. **CNBC “Mortgage demand jumps nearly 28% in one week, as interest rates drop to lowest point in months,” By Diana Olick, January 18, 2023, www.cnbc.com/2023/01/18/mortgage-demand-jumps-interest-rates-drop.html

DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP IS PROUD TO ANNOUNCE OUR 2022 PRESIDENTS CLUB HONOREES

PRESIDENTS CLUB ELITE

ADAM HAMALIAN

ANGIE CLAY

BRANDON KERSIS

BRYAN HURLBUT

AMY CALLAHAN

ANGELA LOTMAN

ANASTASIA STEPHANOPOULOS

BONNE WERSEL

BONNIE KUMMELL

BRETT BARNES

CANDI HOYLE

CARA GAMBLE

CAROLYN WAY

CATHY BAIGENT

DARA BUZZARD

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

CHERYL HATA

JAMIE CONNORS

JULIE DEL SANTO

KAAREN BRICKMAN

KELLY WOOD

LESLIE SHAFTON

LORI LEGLER

MARISA COX

PRESIDENTS CLUB

DAVE CHRISTIE

DAVE SMITH

DENISEN HARTLOVE

EMANUEL SAKKIS

EMILY YOUNG

FONIA HUMPHRIES

JACKIE GERRY

JANE SMITH

JIM COLHOUN

JOE DAJANI

JOHN FONDNAZIO

JULIE DEL SANTO

BROKER/OWNER

925.818.5500

DRE# 01882902 | 01290985

Many of our neighbors cannot afford to feed and clothe themselves or their families. Volunteer opportunities for individuals, families, and groups to serve the community are available at White Pony Express (WPE).

WPE, founded by Dr. Carol Weyland Conner in 2013 and headquartered in Pleasant Hill, is a nonprofit that rescues fresh surplus food from supermarkets, restaurants, and farmers markets. This nutritious food is then delivered free to organizations that feed the hungry. In addition, high-quality clothing, children’s toys, and books are distributed free of charge.

Hundreds of volunteers make WPE possible. They volunteer because they believe in the mission and know they are helping others who have urgent needs at this critical time in their lives. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit whiteponyexpress.org/volunteer or call Mandy Nakaya, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at 925-818-6361 or email Mandy@whiteponyexpress.org

Hike continued from page 3

company logo/family name can be included on the event T-shirt. Details are available at TheHikeForHope.com

Money raised through registrations and peer-to-peer supporting donations benefits patient care and helps keep grief support, dementia education, and family caregiver resources available to the public at no charge. The community’s participation helps Hope Hospice care for more than 2,000 East Bay neighbors each year.

Route options include a 2.6 mile easy out-and-back lakefront route that can be shortened to your comfort level, and a 4.4 mile route that adds a moderate incline loop.

The event starts at 8:30AM, and you can hike at your own pace. When you finish, there will be a free barbecue lunch sponsored by MCE Corp., or you can bring your own picnic. Raffle prizes, silent auction winners, and top fundraiser awards are announced around noon.

To learn more and register, visit TheHikeForHope.com, or call 925-829-8770 weekdays from 9AM to 4PM.

Hope Hospice is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that has served the Tri-Valley and neighboring East Bay cities since 1980. HopeHospice.com. Tax ID 94-2576059.

JOHN HOYLE

JOHN SEFTON

KAREN GUARISCO

KAREN IVANKOVICH

KELLY SCHOLES

KIM CERDA

KIM SEFTON

KORY MADGE

LINDSEY SINDAYEN

LISA TICHENOR

MARTY HENDREN

PAMELA COLOMBANA

RUTH EDDY

SHERRY HUTCHENS

VERONICA HIDALGO

MATT MCLEOD

MEREDITH KUMMELL

MICHAEL GERRY

OLIVER BROWN

RONNI SCHWARTZ

SABRENA LAWTON

SCOTT HUMPHRIES

SHEILA CHRISTIE

TERRYLYNN FISHER

TINA FRECHMAN

VALERIE EPTING

DANVILLE WOMEN’S CLUB UPCOMING EVENTS

Please join the members of the GFWC Danville Women’s Club at the following upcoming events which take place at the Clubhouse located at 242 W Linda Mesa Avenue, Danville.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 24TH

The Club is holding a book discussion ( The Only Woman in the Room, by Marie Benedict) and light lunch from noon to 2PM at the Clubhouse. The cost is $25. To RSVP and purchase tickets, call 925837-1165 or visit www.danvillewomensclub.org. Proceeds from ticket sales support the California Federation of Women’s Clubs’ domestic and sexual violence awareness and prevention programs.

SATURDAY, APRIL 15TH

The Club is having a shredding event from 9AM to noon at the Clubhouse. The cost is $15 per standard banker box size container (staples and paper clips are okay). Please remove binders, large metal clips, plastic, CDs, or metal items. You retain your storage boxes for reuse or recycling. We will close early if the truck is filled, and operate rain or shine.

We will also offer computer hard drive destruction for $15 each (out of computer). This is a drive up – drop-off – go event. Net proceeds from the fundraiser benefit the Patty Hart Memorial Scholarship Fund. Shredding will be done in your presence. Check or cash payments are preferred at this event. Email danvillewc@gmail.com or call 925-837-1165 with any questions.

SAVE THE DATE ~ JEWELRY FUNDRAISER FAIRE

The Alamo Women’s Club (AWC) will be hosting a Jewelry Fundraiser Faire to benefit Club scholarships as well as projects to support the community. The event will take place Wednesday, February 1st from 10AM-5PM and Thursday, February 2nd from 10AM-4PM. Some lovely new jewelry has just arrived! A huge inventory of designer jewelry will be 50% off and beautiful costume jewelry can be had starting at just $5.

The Club is located at 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo. Please come and shop!

SAN RAMON VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

By Jamie Westgate, Principal

After years of fundraising with a goal and vision in mind, our school made significant changes to the playground spaces on our campus, which brought much joy to our students. I have spent a number of days observing their play times at recess and can’t help but notice how many important lessons in school are learned outside the classroom.

Demonstrating good sportsmanship speaks more about the heart than the body. Many people care about growing in strength, size, and agility, but those who are remembered as the most influential athletes care about relationships. Reminding students to play fairly and treat others in a way they want to be treated is not only the right thing to do, it is a way to lead a God-honoring life.

Trying new things is the first step to finding new interests! Recently, a group of our 4th graders shifted from playing basketball to playing foursquare. Not only have they learned to enjoy a new activity, they have attracted new friends to their game. It’s reminded me to try something new like the game of pickleball, and also enroll in that class I’ve postponed too many times.

Taking risks is not easy for the majority, but we all know it’s an essential part of success, both professionally and personally. Overcoming the fear of the monkey bars can be training in how to overcome future challenges. If we don’t make it across the first time, we have an opportunity to try again! It also allows others to step into our lives to offer support, often building relationships as we go.

It’s so easy to overlook the importance of teaching a child how to make friends. We assume this happens naturally; although it can, we find it’s important to give our students sentence starters to introduce themselves and ask to join in an activity. As we grow up, we’re constantly subjected to new surroundings. Wouldn’t it be great to live in a society where the average person looked up and smiled rather than looked down into his/her phone? Training our kids to be friendly and engaging will improve confidence, articulation, and interpersonal skills.

Picking yourself up and trying again is perhaps the most important life skill gleaned on the playground. Life is full of successes and failures. It takes grit to manage all the unexpected happenings. So many students today are struggling with anxiety, often because they are too worried to make a mistake. Many times, learning how to navigate a problem, find a solution, or get others involved toward resolution is a life skill that will help them to know that it’s safe to make mistakes, helping them exercise both their “resilience” and “independence” muscles.

I would encourage our community to slow down and think about how your school provided lessons outside the classroom that ultimately equipped you for life. Let’s help this next generation do this with intention today.

YOUTH HALL OF FAME NOMINATIONS

The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors is accepting nominations for the 2023 Contra Costa County Youth Hall of Fame Awards. These awards are presented annually to outstanding Contra Costa County residents between 12 and 18 years old. The students will be recognized at the 29th Annual César E. Chávez Commemorative Celebration on Tuesday, April 4th, in the Board of Supervisors Chambers.

Nominees should demonstrate exemplary behavior in one of five categories:

• Good Samaritan: Goes out of their way to do for others without seeking recognition

• Volunteerism: Lends a helping hand for the good of the community; Gives their time and energy to a worthy cause or organization

• Teamwork: Works unselfishly for the good of the team

• Leadership and Civic Engagement: A natural leader who inspires others and works to make a difference in school and the community

• Perseverance: Has worked hard to overcome obstacles and achieve success

For more information and the application form to nominate youth in our community, visit tinyurl.com/3xfaa7dt.

Please submit your nomination by completing the form and uploading it to the County website or emailing the application and your letter of recommendation to Lia Bristol at YouthNomination@dcd.cccounty.us

Nominations must be received or postmarked by February 17, 2023

MONTE VISTA HIGH

By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal

Monte Vista (MV) has started its spring semester and we are in full swing after a well-deserved winter break. Although we were all a little sleepy from the return to school, MV’s students and staff are already back on track and making the most of our time on campus. I have really enjoyed visiting classrooms over the past few weeks and observing the high levels of engagement and deep learning opportunities our teachers are providing and our students are experiencing.

February is always an exceptionally busy month for MV. Winter sports are finishing up their seasons and spring sports are kicking off theirs. Our Visual Arts and Performing Arts (VAPA) programs are performing and competing locally and across the state. Seniors are beginning to receive their first college acceptance letters. We are also preparing to welcome our incoming Class of 2027 at our annual Freshman Parent Night to be held on February 28th

MV’s winter athletic teams are pushing hard for EBAL championships and NCS playoff spots. MV Women’s Soccer and MV Women’s Basketball teams are both well positioned to make a strong push for post-season accolades. MV Men’s Soccer is enjoying another strong season and is currently ranked second in the NCS. They are looking for a strong finish to their EBAL schedule. MV Men’s Basketball’s young team is also playing at a high level, opening their EBAL season with a signature win against De La Salle. They are a team on the rise and will be strong contenders as the post season approaches. MV Wrestling is finishing the winter season strong with numerous athletes earning medals at several local tournaments.

Monte Vista’s VAPA programs will be active in February with the entire department collaborating on this year’s Winter Musical Mean Girls. Performances will run from February 22nd through February 25th. In addition, MV’s Choir is preparing for several upcoming winter performances and MV’s Instrumental Music will be performing at a variety of competitions across Northern California. Speech and Debate continues to earn high honors and accolades at tournaments throughout Northern California and our Robotics program has been working hard since the beginning of January with their 2023 build challenge project. This project will be a huge focus as the team begins a tough season at a variety of competitions.

The year 2023 is off to a fast start at Monte Vista. I encourage you to come out to all of our campus events and support our amazing students, staff, and community.

ALAMO POLICE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE OPENINGS

The Alamo Police Services Advisory Committee (CSA P-2B/APSAC) has two open positions.

The Committee advises the Board of Supervisors and the Sheriff’s Department on the needs of the Alamo community for police services.

You must reside in the P2B area of Alamo to serve on this committee. One regular seat and one alternate seat are open. The positions are open until filled.

Find out more information about volunteering for an advisory body at co.contra-costa.ca.us/3418. To apply online go to www.co.contra-costa.ca.us

ACTION POOL REPAIR

925.820.3640

www.actionpoolrepair.com

VALLEY VIGNETTE By Beverly Lane

MORE THAN AN ATMOSPHERIC RIVER: 1862

California’s rainy season has left us soggy and more than grateful for sunny days. However, historians would ask you to recall the rainfall of 1861 and 1862 and contemplate that megastorm.

A 43-day storm, which began in December of 1861, turned the Central Valley and Southern California into inland seas and killed thousands of people, according to a Scientific American article in 2013. Sixty-six inches of rain fell in Los Angeles that year. The Sierras had snow levels from 10 to 15 feet followed by warm rainfall sending water into rivers in unprecedented levels. The water rose to 30 feet in some areas, covering the new telegraph poles which stretched from Sacramento to New York. All of Sacramento was entirely under 10 feet of brown water that January.

The authors pointed out that “California’s legislature, unable to function, moved to San Francisco until Sacramento dried out – six months later. By then, the state was bankrupt.” And a Contra Costa Gazette writer let loose to write “Certainly not less than one-third of the surface of California has been visited as if by a blighting plague, a desolating earthquake, or a devouring fire.”

William Brewer, who was surveying California, noted that in January of 1862: “thousands of farms are entirely under water – cattle starving and drowning. All the roads in the middle of the state are impassable; so all mails are cut off.” One quarter of the state’s 800,000 cattle drowned in the flood.

Cal Professor B. Lynn Ingram wrote “Downstream of Sacramento, towns and villages throughout the eastern San Francisco Bay Area were struggling with catastrophes of their own. Twenty miles northeast of San Francisco, four feet of water covered the entire town of Napa; to the east, the small town of Rio Vista on the Sacramento River was under six feet of water.

“The entire population of Alamo, at the foot of Mt. Diablo 50 miles east of San Francisco, was forced to flee rising flood waters. People abandoned their homes in the middle of the night. Some found refuge, others drowned. The San Ramon Valley was one sheet of water from hill to hill as far as the eye could see. The destructive force of the floods was awesome: houses, otherwise intact and complete with their contents, were carried away in the rapids; horses, cattle, and barns were swept downstream for miles.”

A Contra Costa Gazette article dated December 3, 1861 stated that in Alamo, “it came suddenly and without any warning at about three in the morning. Many of the people fled as fast as possible and took refuge in the Academy and Wolfe’s brick store. The barn and stable of Hoffman and White washed off with 15 tons of hay (and) a fine buggy…The horses were saved.” August Hemme lost a large barn, a fine carriage, and some outbuildings and fences. George Engelmayer had 1,500 sacks of wheat destroyed.

In one of his farm diaries, San Ramon’s George McCamley wrote (January 2, 1862): “Rained all day and all night. Creek very high, the whole county flooded.” The Gazette stated, “The bridges have been swept away or rendered impassable from one end of the county to the other,” which included the bridge over San Ramon Creek just south of McCamley’s property.

What a mess it was. California agricultural historians pointed out that these floods marked a transformation from the state’s Age of Grazing to the Age of Grains since so many cattle were lost. The County’s wheat and hay production in the next decades were tremendous, with much of the local firm, flavorful grain sent to the Liverpool Corn Exchange on ships out of Martinez. Local hay was a staple crop sold for horse consumption in San Francisco liveries, Presidio cavalry, and draft horses.

Our winter season is still not over, and the rainfall so far is impressive. As scientists study the 1861-62 storms, they have sediment studies which indicate such megastorms have happened in California about every 200 years. This is truly devastating to contemplate. At least for now, we can only hope the remaining valley barns stay in place in 2023.

Sources: William H. Brewer, Up and Down California in 1860-1864, 1966; B. Lynn Ingram “California Megaflood: Lessons from a Forgotten Disaster” Scientific American, Jan. 1, 2013; Ralph Cozine, “Agriculture: For a Century the Business of the Valley”; John and Tena Gallagher research; George McCamley’s farm diary for 1862. Contra Costa County Gazette articles Dec. 3, 1861, Jan. 18, 1862.

SCHOLARSHIPS FOR DANVILLE, ALAMO & WALNUT CREEK WOMEN - APPLY NOW!

The American Association of University Women (AAUW) Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch has provided over $121,000 in scholarships over the last ten years to help local college women complete their degree programs. Applications are now being accepted for 2023 scholarships. The minimum scholarship award is $2,000 and will be paid no later than June 30, 2023.

Applicants must be entering into their junior year or higher, at an accredited four-year college or university, no later than the fall of the upcoming school year after which they apply for the scholarship. High School graduates from (or current residents) within Walnut Creek or the San Ramon Valley Unified School District’s boundaries, or individuals who belong to Renaissance Scholars from California State University East Bay may apply. For a complete description of requirements and to apply, visit daw-ca.aauw.net/aauw-scholarship-application. Applications must be completed and postmarked by March 17, 2023

ALAMO WOMEN’S CLUB ANNOUNCES 2023-2024 SCHOLARSHIP APPLICATIONS

Over 80 years ago, the Alamo Women's Club Scholarship Program was established. Scholarships are made possible through annual fundraising efforts by club members, jewelry sales, and community donations.

In 2022, $25,000 was awarded to six financially-challenged students, four of whom were single parents attending Diablo Valley College and two who were former foster youth, currently part of Youth Homes. Most students received $5,000 which they are able to use to pay their tuition and to support their living expenses. Recipients must earn a 2.0 in all courses and submit proof of enrollment and grades for each semester. Applicants may attend any type of college or trade school for the duration of the one-year scholarship.

Student scholarships for 2023-2024 are now available for single parents of the Contra Costa Community Colleges, Youth Homes, and high school graduating seniors of the San Ramon Valley and Walnut Creek School Districts. The scholarship budget for 2023-2024 is $40,000.

To learn more, please visit the AWC website scholarship page at www.alamowomensclub.org/philanthropy/scholarship The scholarship is also listed on the websites of Diablo Valley College, Los Medanos College, and Contra Costa College under External Scholarships.

Quilts continued from front page

Another detail is the binding and backing are cat eyes. The cat is always watching when she is at home.” Quinevere’s personal goals are inscribed on the fronds of toilet tissue that frame her visage. “Sew; Learn to Embroider; Start Knitting; More Books; Paint; Less Media Screen; Laugh More; Find the Sun.” She wears her vaccination button proclaiming: “I got my second dose.”

Arden used techniques she learned in “Whimsical Portraits,” a 2021 online course offered by Wooden Gate Quilts (now open in Danville with in-person classes and quilting supplies). Following Lisa Calhoun’s inspirational guidance, each of the students made a unique and hilarious composition. Dougan calls hers “Atomic Annie.”

A long-time California resident, Arden now lives in Virginia and belongs to Arlington Quilters Unlimited. Shortly after she completed “Atomic Annie,” Dougan created Quinevere in response to AQU’s challenge: “We have been home way too long.” The challenge required including a house on the quilt. Dougan’s collage has a house in the corner that advises: “Stay Home.” Designing the quilt measuring 24” x 24” took one month, but finding the right fabrics took several.

Julia McLeod’s “Cocktail” measures a full 82” x 89”. She blends brilliant colors with intoxicating textures in a totally modern recipe for a traditional pattern. Known by many names including “Solomon’s Puzzle,” “Wander’s Path in the Wilderness,” and "Oregon Trail,” the block was worked as “Drunkard’s Path” by ladies of the Women's Christian Temperance Union. By setting bright, eye-catching curved silk appliques slightly off-register to the quarter circle elements in each block, McLeod gives everyone viewing the quilt a hint of the way imbibing alcohol could blur their vision. She tops off her “Cocktail” with red pompom braid suggestive of maraschino cherries.

“I frequently work with silk, harvesting wonderful fabrics in thrift shop garments, furnishing fabric samples, neckties, kimono, and saris.” Julia explains, “Cocktail” got its name from the wild and wonderful blend of fabrics used; sari silk, corduroy, embroidered fabric, Chinese brocade, a plaid shirt, and more.” Alcoholic beverages were one commodity never in short supply during the pandemic. McLeod started “Cocktail” in January 2022 as a conscious decision to occupy her time in artistic endeavor rather than indulgence in an excess of wine. McLeod had no need to shop for materials. “I have enough fabric to last a lifetime. Friends come to me with items knowing I will put them to good use. I prefer to work with reclaimed textiles, giving them a second life.” Stitching ‘Cocktail’ took three months. McLeod sent it out for quilting, binding, and completion with a label on the back.

McLeod’s career gave her extensive experience in working with fabric, first as a menswear textile designer on London’s prestigious Savile Row, and subsequently in New York designing textiles for labels like Calvin Klein, Marc Jacobs, and Perry Ellis. McLeod writes: “The first quilts I made were for my young children. When they were grown and flown I had more time to apply myself to quilting. I’ve been an industry professional for the past five years or so.”

on page 16

Arden Dougan’s “Quinevere the Quarantine Queen” is packed with hilarious features reminiscent of the early pandemic days. See Quilts continued

CREEK MAINTENANCE AND SAFETY

By County Supervisor Candace Andersen

With recent storms, many residents have reached out to my office asking about whose responsibility it is to maintain creeks on their property. Privately owned creeks, including those that are owned by a Homeowner’s Association, are an important part of our county’s drainage system and are regulated by County ordinance, however, they are not maintained by the County. Generally, property owners’ responsibility extends to the center of the creek.

In recent weeks, the Public Works Department has seen erosion to creeks all over the County. When a creek is not properly maintained, the resulting obstructions can lead to increased flooding, changes in the course of the creek, and increased erosion. Property owners are legally responsible for damages to adjacent property that result from neglect or unpermitted activities. Additionally, property owners are responsible for the actions of gardeners, landscapers, maintenance workers, and contractors.

The County Public Works Department provides several guidelines for private creek maintenance. First, remove all debris and foreign objects from the creek. Second, remove vegetation including shrubs, tules, pampas grass, cattails, and bamboo from the creek banks to the top of the bank. Low ground cover and root systems can be left in place. Third, remove any tree limbs which hang within two feet over the top of the bank. Fourth, do not clear-cut the creek slopes. Leave ground cover like low grasses or vines. Fifth, keep any slope stabilization measures, such as retaining walls or fabric mesh coverings, in good condition. Finally, if any work is done to alter the creek, make sure to obtain the appropriate permits from Contra Costa County, the State Department of Fish and Wildlife, the State Regional Water Quality Control Board, and the US Army Corps of Engineers.

Allowing or maintaining obstructions in a creek is a public nuisance under both local and state law. Both the California Civil Code (section 3479) and the California Penal Codes (section 370) declare that anything which unlawfully obstructs the free passage of any river, stream, or canal is a public nuisance. Contra Costa County requires you to obtain a Drainage or Flood Control permit if you plan to modify the flow of water, or work in or build near, a creek or channel in the unincorporated areas of the County. Please call the County’s Application & Permit Center, (925) 674-7744, to inquire about your specific project before beginning any work in or near a creek.

There are some creeks and channels maintained by the County’s Flood Control and Water Conservation District. The district covers all of Contra Costa County, including its cities, and owns property throughout the county for the purpose of constructing and maintaining regional flood control facilities, including approximately 79 miles of channels, creeks, and other drainage and 30 detention basins and dams.

It is critical that everyone stay out of the water at all times and especially when creeks and channels take on higher storm-water levels. The conditions will produce dangerous circumstances which should prompt a greater sense of heightened awareness. Local law enforcement warns that once you enter one of these channels, you likely won’t be able to get out. Walls can be up to 30 feet high with a current moving as fast as 20 mph. The water is often frigid and filled with debris, according to the Flood Control District. Such factors make for an almost impossible task for rescue teams – even if they are notified in a timely manner.

Many people in our community remember when tragedy struck in February 2011. On the heels of a winter rainstorm, two Walnut Creek high school students took an inflatable raft and set sail on a nearby creek. Close to 100 feet from where the boys entered the stream there was a chute with 20-foot-high walls and no way to get out. The cold, rapidly moving water sucked them underground into a three-quarter mile-long tunnel beneath downtown Walnut Creek. A few miles further downstream, they tumbled the equivalent of two stories into a deep pool designed to slow the storm runoff. The bodies of the two boys were found the following day in the waterway near Buchanan Field in Concord, separated from their deflated raft, which was found upstream near a drop structure. Both had drowned.

The Flood Control District warns all residents that such facilities should never be used for recreation purposes, and that its control channels are solely for vital flood control measures. These channels prevent flooding in our communities by taking storm-water out to sea. To learn more about the Contra Costa County Flood Control District in general, visit www.contracosta.ca.gov/5586/Flood-Control-District

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

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

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

The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff will be hosting meetings via Zoom. If you have any questions or are interested in finding out more information, please email the Community Services Unit at csu@ so.cccounty.us.

Carpets, Hardwood, Laminate & Stone

Workers trying to unclog a local creek drain.

QUICK TRIPS

LADYBUG HOTEL

By Linda Summers Pirkle

I recently came across a lovely book, written over a half a century ago, titled The Sense of Wonder, a Celebration of Nature for Parents and Children, by Rachel Carson. In her signature beautiful prose, Carson describes ways to experience nature. She called it her “Wonder” book. “If a child is to keep alive his inborn sense of wonder,” wrote Carson, “he needs the companionship of at least one adult who can share it, rediscovering with him the joy, excitement, and mystery of the world we live in.” She suggests taking a simple magnifying glass on a walk and lovingly describes her explorations at the seaside in Maine with her then four-year-old-grandnephew.

Rachel Carson (1907-1964), Marine biologist, author and environmentalist is most known for her iconic book Silent Spring printed in 1962 in which she took a firm stance against the indiscriminate use of synthetic pesticides. One of the best-known of several pesticides is DDT. She believed “spray as little as you can” rather than “spray to the limit of your capacity.” From the late 40’s to the 1950’s according to William Souder in his book On a Farther Shore, “DDT was in products including soap, furniture polish, shelf paper, paint, and fabric treatments. It could be applied to lawns by mean of a fogging device that attached to the muffler of a lawn mower, dispersing a hot, poisonous cloud as the grass was cut. It was sprayed in hospital kitchens and in residential neighborhoods hit by Dutch Elm disease. By 1959, some 80 million pounds of DDT were being used by the United States annually.” Eventually, a reversal in national pesticide policy led to a nationwide ban on DDT and other pesticides.

It’s no secret to gardeners that ladybugs, or Ladybird beetles, are Mother Nature’s preferred choice in dealing with pesky soft-bodied plant eating insects. Besides the lore of bringing good luck to those who spot them, they have a superpower: one ladybug can consume over 5,000 aphids in its lifetime!

There are over 4,500 different species of ladybugs in the world and they come in different colors and patterns, even stripes, but most common in our area is the seven-spotted red and black ladybug. During the winter ladybugs find a type of “ladybug

hotel” for the season in sheltered places where they undergo diapause, a method of hibernation in rotting logs, tree bark, on certain plants and under rocks.

Oakland’s Reinhardt

Regional Park, known for the largest remaining stand of coast redwoods in the East Bay, is also a spot where ladybugs congregate in large numbers to overwinter. The park is a wonderful place to enjoy nature with children (or without) any time of the year, but for the next month, until early March, thousands of ladybugs can be seen clustered on plants and fence posts along Reinhardt Park’s Stream Trail at the intersection of Prince and Eucalyptus Trails.

Cornell University is looking for citizen scientists, including children, to help track different ladybug species. Check out their website lostladybug.org to be a part of this nationwide project. As of January 12, 2023, there have been 39,096 ladybug photos contributed.

Parking for Reinhardt Regional Park is available at the Skyline Gate Staging area at 7867 Redwood Road in the Montclair neighborhood of Oakland. Open hours are 5AM-10PM daily. Check the website ebparks.org for more information including up-to-date park closures due to extreme weather. Maps of trails are available online. Ladybugs should not be collected or handled.

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

LOCAL ROTARY CLUBS

To learn more about The Rotary Club of Alamo and see current meeting dates and times, visit their Facebook page “Rotary Club of Alamo.” More information is also available at alamorotary.org, alamorotary@hotmail.com, or by calling 925-718-6601. The Danville Rotary Club meets virtually every Monday at noon. Learn more at danvillerotary.org. If you are interested in the Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary Club, they meet Tuesdays at 7AM. Contact Daniel Kodam at daniel@dsvrotary.com, call 925-336-0000, or visit dsvrotary.com. The Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley meets via Zoom every Wednesday night from 7PM-8:30PM. For more information, call Valerie Munoz at 925-683-6310 or visit www.sanramonvalleyrotary.com. The Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/San Ramon meets via Zoom on Wednesdays from 5:30PM-6:40PM. For more information, call 925-998-2924. Rotary Club of San Ramon meets via Zoom every Thursday between noon and 1:15pm. For more information, visit sanramonrotary.org, or email chris@gallagherwealth.com, or call 925-831-3043.

DANVILLE LIONS CLUB

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

EXCHANGE CLUB

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

KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY

The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets every Thursday at noon at Black Bear Diner located at 807 Camino Ramon in Danville. The Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville and many other exciting events.

The Club has an interesting and informative weekly program speaker and specializes in fun and entertaining camaraderie. There is no charge for a guest lunch. For more information, email info@srvkiwanis.org, or visit www.srvkiwanis.org

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

Books continued from front page

available to nonprofit organizations. All proceeds benefit the library.

VOLUNTEER - BECOME A FRIEND OF THE LIBRARY

For over 60 years, the FODL has generously contributed to the library through its sales in the Library Bookstore as well as through special book sale events all year round. All proceeds benefit the Library’s adult and children’s programs, special events, as well as the purchase of new books and materials benefiting all patrons. We are grateful for the support from our loyal community of book-lovers! But, we need YOU to continue that support. So, “Be a Friend” and pick up a membership form in the Bookstore. As a member, you’ll know all about the happenings at the bookstore, including sales and events--and you’ll make a difference to our great community library. Thank you for your support!

GO '10-8' WITH CHIEF SHIELDS

10-8

The Shelter in Place order prevented the Danville Police Department from continuing programs like Coffee with the Cops, which allowed police a chance to directly interact with the community in a non-threatening environment. Not to be deterred, Danville Police Chief Allan Shields comes to you via Facebook Live in a community program called “10-8.” “10-8” is the radio code every officer says at the start of their shift and every time they finish helping someone and are ready to help someone else. “10-8” seemed to be a great title for the weekly program to reinforce to residents and businesses that the officers in Danville are here in service to the community.

Come join the “10-8” meeting every Wednesday at 5PM on Facebook Live. Each program will have updates on what is happening in the Town of Danville, crime prevention tips, and answers to viewer questions. Community members can email questions to mailbag@danville.ca.gov. Questions can also be asked in the comment section on Facebook Live. The Facebook page is “Danville Police Department.”

SONS IN RETIREMENT

LAS

TRAMPAS BRANCH #116

When was the last time you cleaned your dryer vent? Annually, 2,900 home fires and $35 million in property damage are caused by clothes dryers. Get your dryer vent professionally cleaned and rest easy today.

VETERAN SERVICES BRING THE “OFFICE” TO YOU

The Contra Costa County Veterans Services Office is removing barriers by opening a virtual office space. The virtual Veterans Office can give you close to an in-person experience.

Veterans can learn about and apply for benefits, access VA health care, receive referrals for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder therapy, and much more. Visit the office website at www.contracosta.ca.gov/vets during open office hours for one-on-one assistance. Hours of operation are Mondays through Thursdays from 9am to noon and 1pm to 4pm, and on Fridays 9am to noon.

Staffing the virtual office are Veterans Service Manager Sidney Jones, an Air Force Veteran, and Veteran Services Representative Buck Carmichael, a Marine Corps Veteran. Both have long-time experience connecting vets to critical services. For more information, please call the Veteran Services Office at 925-313-1481.

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

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

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

SAN RAMON VALLEY BRANCH #128

Are you looking for ways to stay active, make new friends, and have more fun in retirement? Look no further than Sons in Retirement #128, a social organization for men over 50 who are retired or are nearing retirement.

At SIR 128 we believe that retirement is an opportunity to pursue new interests, travel, and spend time with friends and loved ones. That’s why we offer a wide range of activities that cater to every taste from hiking, pickleball, book clubs, wine tasting, lunch in the park, golf, and more.

Each month SIR128 has a variety of events. In the upcoming months will be touring TCHO Chocolate Factory, taking the Ano Nuevo Elephant Seal Walking Tour and SF Giants Oracle Park Tour, and attending Giants, A’s, and Warrior games. These outings are a great way to have some fun and make some new friends.

If you are ready to start that next chapter of your life, join SIR 128 today and discover a fun and rewarding world of opportunities.

Membership includes a monthly luncheon with a guest speaker. The next luncheon will occur on Wednesday, February 15th at 11AM at Bridges, 9000 S. Gale Ridge, San Ramon. The speaker will be Lynn Waespi, who will talk about her experience working with Ukrainian refugees in Austria. Lynn’s philanthropy extends to the western hemisphere as well. She is founder and president of Maya Crew, a nonprofit that has provided 4,800 scholarships to educate primary and secondary students among the rural youth of the highlands of Guatemala.

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

BRANCH #146

If you like making friends for life while participating in fun social activities, then SIR Branch 146 may be what you’re looking for. There are almost 50 activity groups and half of them can include your significant other as well. Visit www.sir146.com and click on any activity icon to learn more. You can also get additional information in a recent newsletter containing photos, activity schedules, contact information, and write-ups. Visit www.sir146. com/newsletter_recent.html

Activities include nine-hole and 18-hole golf, hiking, biking, pool, photography, birding, fishing, dining out, cards, dominoes and games groups, theater, great travel adventures, and more! Most months, the group enjoys a delicious catered luncheon with interesting and timely speakers. The meetings are held at Boundary Oak in Walnut Creek on the second Thursday of the month. Reservations are required, as is attendance at least five times per year. Besides luncheons, most SIR are in two or more activities. Many men have been members for over 20 years. Broadening your network of friends and having fun is what it is all about. To make a reservation or learn more, email br146recruitment@gmail.com.

air conditioning • heating • dry vent cleaning air duct cleaning • commercial HVAC • and more

CLIP NOTES By Jody Morgan

At George Washington’s Mount Vernon several “Living Witnesses” - trees alive during our first president’s lifetime - still grow. Twin tulip trees (Liriodendron tulipifera), planted in 1785 according to Washington’s personal direction, stand sentinel by the bowling green gates. Although these North American natives, also known as tulip poplars or simply poplars, were coveted as costly exotics in England, they were too common in woodlands throughout most of the original thirteen states to be considered garden worthy in their homeland by other 18th century estate owners.

In Brother Gardeners, Andrea Wulf recounts the exchange of botanical knowledge and horticultural materials between John Bartram of Pennsylvania and Peter Collinson of England. The two had developed a thriving business by 1741 when Collinson visited Thorndon, home of the eighth Baron Petre. Petre had procured tens of thousands of Bartram’s seeds and cones through Collinson over the preceding decade to create a one-thousand-acre American forest that included, oaks, pines, red cedars, and many more species from across the Atlantic.

Wulf writes: “Petre had also planted 900 tulip poplars, one of the most sought after species in England for its large blossom and leaves that looked as if the gardener had snipped them at the tip. Although John Tradescant the Younger had already brought the tulip poplar from Virginia 100 years previously, it had remained rare and was still one of the most expensive plants available in England.” Wulf describes another Englishman’s 1742 request to Collinson following a large order: “Then, two weeks later, Richmond asked if Collinson could procure forty to fifty tulip poplars, writing that he would pay any price for them because ‘they are not to be gott any where else.’”

A self-taught landscape designer, Washington studied the same influential garden writers favored in England. Washington ordered Batty Langley’s New Principles of Gardening in a letter to London on May 1, 1759. Langley advised freeing the landscape from stiff regularity. Philip Miller’s The Gardeners Dictionary included practical advice.

During his brief respite from public service, after resigning his commission as Commander-in-Chief at the close of the Revolutionary War in 1783 until he was summoned into the political arena first presiding over the Constitutional Convention in 1787 and subsequently serving as the first President of the United States of America, Washington installed the major elements of his landscape plan.

An article titled “Developing Mount Vernon’s Landscape” (mountvernon. org) explains: “Along the serpentine paths, Washington planted forest trees,

WALNUT CREEK GARDEN CLUB

The Walnut Creek Garden Club will hold its monthly meeting on Monday, February 13 th at the Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Dr. in Walnut Creek. Registration begins at 9:30AM, followed by a brief business meeting, social time, and an educational program.

The program, “Bees, Bees, and More Bees,” will be given by the Mount Diablo Beekeeper’s Association (MDBA). MDBA has a dedicated group of novice and expert volunteers who are determined to promote beekeeping, support best practices and create habitats for honeybees and pollinators. Learn how you can “bee” a part of the process through your own garden.

The public is welcome to visit meetings and to become a part of the Club. For more information, visit www.walnutcreekgardenclub.org. Learn more about the Master Gardeners at www.ccmg.ucanr.edu

LAFAYETTE GARDEN CLUB

The Lafayette Garden Club monthly meeting begins at 9:30AM on February 9th. The meeting will be held at the Veteran’s Hall located at 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Lafayette.

Anna Marie Beauchemin will be the guest speaker. She is the founder of East Bay Herbals, a custom herbal apothecary in Martinez. Anna will teach us about growing and using herbs and the art and science of herbal medicine.

The meeting is free to attend. If you are interested in attending or joining the club, please email LCGMembershipCommittee@gmail.com.

which framed the views while offering welcome shade. ... Walking west from the Mansion along these paths, Washington’s guests first encountered two ‘shrubberies,’ dotted with bursts of color created by flowering shrubs.”

Washington could identify many deciduous native plants in their barelimbed winter form. After riding across his plantation “in search of the sort of Trees I shall want for my walks, groves, & Wildernesses,” Washington wrote in his diary on January 12, 1785: “Within the Meadow fence at the Mill, & within that Inclosure next Isaac’s Gates’s are some young Crab apple trees and young pine trees in the old field of all sizes. And in the Branch of Hell hole betwn. the Gate & its mouth are a number of very fine young PoplarsLocusts - Sasafras and Dogwood.”

In American Gardens in the Eighteenth Century, Ann Leighton quotes the description penned by one European visiting Mount Vernon in June 1798: “‘There were many very beautiful trees: the tulip-tree with flowers like tulips, white with an orange touch in the base: magnolias with flowers whose scent is almost as strong as the orange-tree, but not so pleasant; the sweeter scent -- the small violet flowers have the pleasantest smell I have ever noticed, a mixture of strawberries and pineapple; the splendid catalpa is not yet in flower; the New Scotland spruce of beautiful dark green, and many other trees and shrubs, covered with flowers of different hues, planted so as to produce the best of color-effects.’”

Today’s Mount Vernon visitors won’t easily spot flowers on the poplars Washington had transplanted in their youth. Tulip poplars begin flowering as ten-year-olds. Unlike other members of the magnolia family selected by Washington for their floral display, tulip trees flower after leafing out. Mature specimens top out at 60-90 feet tall. The exquisite blossoms are borne near the top of the canopy. I had to stretch out on the ground beneath the poplar on my Pennsylvania property and look up into the highest branches to see the flowers.

HOW TO NAVIGATE A RECESSION WITH FINANCIAL PLANNING

By Peter T. Waldron, Managing Partner of Waldron Partners

“Good judgment comes from experience, and a lot of that comes from bad judgment.” ~ Will

Rogers

A recession is a difficult time for all and can affect even ultra-high-net-worth families. While it is important to understand the financial implications of a recession, it is also critical to have a financial plan in place so that you can make sound decisions throughout the downturn. Here are some key steps you should consider when planning your finances during an economic recession.

MAKE INFORMED DECISIONS

The first step in the process is understanding how the recession will affect your finances. Make sure to research potential changes you may experience in terms of taxes, investments, and spending habits; this will help you make more informed decisions throughout the recession. It’s also important to pay attention to news and trends that may impact your financial situation, such as government policies or stock market performance. Additionally, stay up-to-date on current events related to the economy so that you are aware of any changes that could potentially affect your finances.

FIND PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE

Another important step in navigating a recession is finding professional guidance from an experienced financial planner or advisor who can help guide you through this difficult period. An expert can provide personalized advice tailored specifically to your individual needs and goals, helping to ensure that you make well-informed decisions about your money. They can also help keep track of any changes made to government policy or regulations about taxes and investments that could potentially impact your wealth. This is especially helpful if you don’t have the time or resources to research these changes yourself.

AVOID MAKING BAD DECISIONS

Finally, it’s important to avoid making rash decisions when managing finances during an economic downturn. Try not to panic or make hasty choices based on fear or uncertainty; this could lead to costly mistakes down the line. Instead, focus on long-term goals and strategies for achieving them while staying mindful of short-term risks associated with investing during a recession. As always, be sure to consult with an experienced professional before making any major financial decisions during this time of uncertainty. Navigating through a recession can be daunting for even the most financially secure families — but having a plan in place will help ensure that you make smart decisions throughout this difficult period. Researching potential changes in taxes, investments, and spending habits will give you insight into how best to manage your finances during an economic downturn while finding professional guidance from an experienced financial planner will help ensure that you make well-informed choices along the way. Above all else, try not to panic — focus on long-term goals and strategies while avoiding bad decisions based on fear or uncertainty — see this period of economic hardship as an opportunity to get your finances in better shape than ever before!

“If one does not know to which port one is sailing, no wind is favorable.”

~ Lucius Annaeus Seneca

We can help you with your financial situation. You do not want to go through life wondering what could have been - contact Peter today at 925708-7397 or peter.waldron@lfg.com.

Peter T. Waldron, California Insurance License #0E47827, is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offers investment advisory services through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Waldron Partners, 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 190 PO Box 528, Alamo, CA 94507. Waldron Partners is not an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors. Insurance is offered through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc., and other fine companies. This material is for use with the general public and is designed for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, tax, or direct investment advice. Lincoln Financial Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice. CRN-5414786-011723. Advertorial

VETERAN SERVICE ORGANIZATION MEETINGS

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

DISCOVER DIABLO

Save Mount Diablo’s (SMD)

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

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

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

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

To learn more visit https://tinyurl.com/mt2tjpvp

TECHNOLOGY MATTERS LOSING CONTROL

By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.

With all of the extra web-based applications and security protocols that have been introduced, there are unexpected downsides that we need to be aware of. Below are two recent situations we’ve dealt with that may be familiar.

Case in point #1, Laptop lock: A business we support involuntarily separated an employee (i.e., not the employee’s idea). When they collected the laptop from the employee, they didn’t contact PCIO to ensure that the laptop was clear of all the ex-employee’s accounts. In the past this wasn’t a big deal, and we could repurpose the machine without much fuss. In 2023, it’s now a very big deal. In our latest case, it was an Apple MacBook. The employee had setup their personal iCloud account to the machine. When an iCloud account is loaded onto a Mac, it turns on a feature called “Find My,” which is a clever tool Apple uses to geo-locate lost or stolen items. You access it on your iPhone, on your Mac, and through the iCloud website. When Find My is not overtly disabled, that laptop (or phone) is locked to that iCloud account. And by locked, I mean it is 100% not able to be repurposed for someone else’s use. When the machine is still linked to someone’s account, you can’t even erase and rebuild the machine because you’ll run into something called “Activation Lock.”

Let’s say someone stole that laptop and wanted to rebuild it so they could use it or sell it. The Activation Lock feature makes it impossible. You can’t do any disk operations without first unlocking it using the iCloud email and password of the person who last used it. If it was a messy termination and someone forgot to do this prior to handing over the final check, you have a problem. Of course, if you have all the purchase documentation there is a chance you can work through Apple’s thorough procedures to unlock the machine. It will not be easy. I don’t blame Apple for this, because they’re trying to cut down on lost equipment and improve data security. But if you find yourself in this position it’s a real pain, and it’s going to take a bunch of time to unwind, if it’s even possible. This is a very brief synopsis of the situation. If you use Mac laptops, beware,

Quilts continued from page 10

and consult PCIO before making any big employee moves.

Case in point #2, Shadow IT: An employee of your firm – we’ll call him Fredfinds a nifty website service to help him with his work. On his own and without consulting the rest of the company (specifically his manager, IT or Finance.) Fred uses his credit card to sign up and start using the site. He expenses the cost every month, and his manager blithely signs the form. Fred uses this product for a while and when he found it useful, he convinced others in his department and the company to use the product as well. Soon there’s a group of people using it. After all $39/month/seat is “not that much,” that is until you multiply that by a lot of people and look at the annual cost. Then it’s a lot. Normally IT is involved in this process, ensuring the product costs are managed, the application can be supported, and it’s usage is tracked for the business.

Since Fred was the first person to use the product, he’s the sole administrator of the whole account. All was well until Fred was laid off. Nobody other than the users have any idea that the service exists, or that Fred was the sole administrator. Nobody has the credentials, the billing was all in Fred’s name, and because he was angry after his sudden departure he canceled and disabled all of the accounts on his way out. Nobody understands the scope of the issue until a few days later when IT is contacted to help people get back into this tool. After considerable sleuthing, IT and Finance discover they are left with a mess. The service Fred chose has zero customer support, no telephone number that’s answered, and a chat window that always seems to be busy “helping other customers.” The employees who depended on this service are screaming because all of their work is locked up and they can’t get to it. Management is hammering on IT because they’re going to miss deadlines due to the files and data being inaccessible, and it’s an IT issue, right? Add to that, Finance is up in arms because they’re now aware of the scope of financial expenditure for this unauthorized, un-tracked, un-managed IT expense that slipped through via employee expense reports. However, at the company whose service Fred chose to use, they’re simultaneously inaccessible and seemingly uninterested in helping unwind the problem for the company.

These are just two scenarios that didn’t exist in the past. Both are expensive to remediate, take a ton of time, and are preventable with the right management, Finance, and IT processes in place. Does this all sound too familiar? Give Portable CIO a call and let’s see if we can get you back on the right track. Phone 925-552-7953 or email info@pcioit.com. Advertorial

Now back to offering lectures and workshops in person after coping with the COVID crisis by doing primarily Zoom presentations, McLeod has a wide range of programs. One six-hour workshop called “Short Cuts to Tradition” teaches accurate ways to make the classic elements of quilt blocks: Nine Patch, Half Square Triangle, Quarter Square Triangle, Flying Geese, Square in a Square. Visit www.juliamcleodquilts.com and follow Julia on Instagram/Facebook @juliamcleodquilts to learn more.

Quilters have been upcycling fabric for generations, never wasting a scrap of material, and recutting garments no longer serviceable. For ‘Pandemic in Pink,’ Jessica Burg took a slightly different approach. With retailers closed or, at best, offering a limited selection in stores, online shopping surged. Burg found several items she impulsively bought didn’t fit, but she loved the material. Instead of returning the clothing, she created a quilt using two dresses from Instagram, a cardigan from Target, and a pair of pants from Zulily supplemented by fabric from Wooden Gate Quilts. The finished composition measures approximately 81” x 71” and is worked in a traditional pattern called ‘Grandmother's Window.’

“Quilting was a sanity saver during the pandemic,” Jessica writes. “It was certainly something to do to fill the time, and it gave me a chance to return to a creative outlet.” Burg had gotten together with a group of friends during graduate school to sew or knit but was too occupied with family and work to continue crafting until the pandemic hit. Then she pulled out her sewing machine and tried making masks. Bored with the process, she rediscovered making quilts. “Sewing felt like progress and I have been able to send quilts to some of my dearest friends who live near and far. It was a way to feel close to people when we couldn’t be close in person.”

Barbara Mahan was able to turn to her well-organized “stash” of fabrics and notions to create her ‘ABCD Kids’ during COVID. “The inspiration for my first quilt came from a work of art I saw in an exhibit in Arizona. I asked the artist for permission to take a photograph to use in designing my quilts. I made ‘Alpine’ first. Then I wanted to make more.” ‘Bliss,’ ‘Covee,’ and ‘Derry’ followed. “They are neither male nor female, but simply happy beings celebrating being alive.” Mahan used primarily cotton cloth to make the whimsical quartet, but each unique personality incorporates unconventional components. Alpine has a felt head and wire glasses. Bliss is finished with dolls hair. Covee’s earrings are fashioned from wire and paper rolls. Derry has yarn for bangs and silk roses for ears. Baby quilts

See Quilts continued on page 20

Repurposed garments Julia McLeod used in “Cocktail” add intoxicating textures.

Jessica Burg wrapped in “Pandemic in Pink.”

ADDING A LOVED ONE TO YOUR HOME TITLE – SIMPLE?

By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.

I’ve often been told: “I want to add [fill in the blank with a loved one, e.g. a child] to the title of my home,” followed by the question: “That’s simple, right?”

On the surface, yes. The basic paperwork under which a property owner (“donor”) adds a loved one (“donee”) to the title of a property - typically as a “joint tenant” - is relatively straightforward. And, many property owners perceive that taking this action is a terrific succession solution, an elegant and effective short-cut to conventional estate planning.

Drilling down further reveals that it is anything but simple and the potential risks and consequences are many, far-reaching, and unbeknownst to most laypeople. Fortunately, however, conventional and comprehensive estate planning, including a well-drafted revocable living trust, can nearly always accomplish a donor’s objectives while avoiding the myriad of potential problems associated with adding a loved one to one’s property title.

Some of the more important potential problems associated with the wellintentioned, but often ill-advised, addition of someone to a home title are:

I. Property Tax Reassessment. Generally, any transfer of California real estate will trigger a reassessment unless a specific exemption applies. Newer Proposition 19 rules have eliminated most formerly attractive parent-child transfer exemptions. Hence, innocently adding a donee to your title will almost certainly result in a property tax increase – regardless of whether it’s done out of “convenience” for succession purposes.

II. Income (Capital Gains) Tax. Generally, due to the income tax rules related to “carryover basis” for lifetime gifts and “stepped-up basis” for inherited assets upon death, it’s much more tax-favorable to inherit. The details of these distinguishing tax rules are beyond the scope of the article, but the essence is that upon the future sale of a property, a very substantial

amount of capital gains tax might be due when the tax could have been avoided had the donee instead received the property via inheritance as opposed to being added during the lifetime of the donor.

III. Federal Estate & Gift Tax. When a donor makes a gift valued at more than $17,000 per calendar year ($34,000 per year for married donors) – which is virtually always the case with California real estate: 1) the donor is required to file a Federal Gift Tax return; and 2) the donor, often unknowingly, uses up a portion of his/her lifetime gift tax exemption and estate tax exemption (amounts that can be gifted or left to be inherited without the donor’s estate being subject to federal estate tax).

IV. Control. Any one or more of these control risks are present: 1) an otherwise unnecessary probate can be triggered; 2) the donor’s equity can be vulnerable to current and future judgments against the donee; 3) the donee may have enforceable occupancy rights that the donor may not intend nor desire; 4) the donee has a right to his/her portion of rents generated by the property; 5) major complications can arise if the donee becomes incapacitated and the donor wants to sell or refinance the property; 6) the donee can force the sale of the property, even if doing so is contrary to the donor co-owner’s wishes; 7) If the donee is added as a “joint tenant,” the donee can easily and quickly alter the donor’s intended succession plan by unilaterally “severing the joint tenancy,” which enables the donee to will his/ her interest to someone other than the donor.

These many and serious cautionary issues emphasize the importance of obtaining legal and tax advice before deciding on whether or not to “simply” add a loved one to the title to your property.

|Estate Planning | Trust Administration & Probate | Real Estate | Business|

Please contact me to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. I am an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group, 1910 Olympic Blvd., Suite 330, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com.

This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors

Advertorial

ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)

By Roger Smith, President ALAMO FARMERS MARKET

An excellent source for fresh fruits and vegetables for your diet and dining pleasure is our Alamo Farmer’s Market! They have the best and the freshest fruits and vegetables full of taste, vitamins, nutrition, and fiber that everyone needs for their diet. Winter fare includes oranges, clementines, mandarins, grapes, persimmons, apples, and pomegranates.

Check out the fresh fish from Dragon Baby Seafood (you can even order in advance, just call Heather at 669-237-5564) and Dore French Bakery from Brentwood - stop by for your Sunday Pastry and much more.

Please look for updated information about the Alamo Certified Farmer’s Market on NextDoor.com.

The Market is sponsored by AIA and is open rain or shine on Sundays from 9AM – 2PM in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd., near Bank of America. DETECT. DECODE. DELIVER.

Alamo’s Police Services Advisory Committee (APSAC) meets the first Monday of each month at AIA’s location, Alamo Plaza, Space 170-A.

On Monday, February 6th at 5:30PM, APSAC will continue its review of Flock Safety, a public safety operating system that helps cities, businesses, schools, and law enforcement in thousands of communities work together to stop crime, protect privacy, and mitigate bias.

How does FlockOS work?

FlockOS is the first public safety operating system that powers 1,400 cities to capture objective evidence, make it actionable with machine learning, and deliver it directly into the hands that stop crime.

Flock Safety’s license plate reading cameras provide 24/7 monitoring for every home, business, and neighborhood. The cameras protect against property crime, violent crime, stolen vehicles, and more.

What is the difference between a doorbell camera and a Flock camera?

Flock cameras have an intentionally narrow field of view capable of capturing about one and a half lanes of traffic. Flock cameras can wake up and start taking pictures in less than a tenth of a second. A doorbell camera is optimized for surveillance. Its settings are optimized for low light, and the shutter speed is slower. Learn more at www.flocksafety.com/solutions/neighborhood-security and www.securityinformed.com.

More information will presented at Supervisor Andersen’s Alamo Public Safety Town Hall meeting scheduled for 6PM, Wednesday, February 22nd at Stone Valley Middle School’s Multi-Purpose Room. Lt. Scott Wooden, Alamo Deputy Wallace, and Sheriff Livingston will be in attendance. Please mark your calendars and plan to attend.

HAPPY 68TH BIRTHDAY

Alamo is a special community that all of our residents can be justifiably proud to call “Home.”

Now in its 68th year, AIA, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, has the longest history of serving our community and helping shape it into “the place where we love to live!”

Since 1955, Alamo residents have been joining the Alamo Improvement Association and working in support of AIA’s mission statement, which is to “preserve the distinctive character of Alamo.”

Visit www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to local residents, membership forms, and more.

HOW TO WINTERIZE YOUR SKIN

By Jerome Potozkin, MD

It’s been a rough winter in the Bay Area. With all of the rain, and the record snowfall in Tahoe, many of us might be feeling like Noah ready to board a ship and sail away. The bright side is that we finally have some relief from the ever-present drought, and will likely have one of our best ski seasons ever. Most people think about taking care of their skin during the sunny days of summer. However, it is important to care for your skin year-round. Here are a few tips to help you care for your skin this winter.

Just like the single best thing you can do for your general health is to quit or never start smoking, the single best thing you can do for your skin is to protect it from ultraviolet radiation. Most people don’t think of sun protection in the winter, but it would be helpful if you did. If you are a skier or snowboarder your sun exposure occurs at a higher altitude where there is less atmospheric filtering of the sun’s harmful rays. Secondly, the snow serves as a giant reflector so you get both direct sun and reflected sun. The smart thing to do is apply a sunscreen of SPF 30 or greater prior to hitting the slopes. If you need help picking out a sunscreen we are happy to help.

Nothing beats a warm weather vacation during the cold winter months. Go and enjoy, but again use your sunscreen along with common sense, such avoiding the sun’s peak hours and wearing protective clothing. Forget about going to a tanning salon prior to your vacation to get a “protective” tan. Skin cancer, photo-aging, and wrinkles are all caused by the cumulative sun and ultraviolet exposure we get. If you are a minor, it is now illegal to go to a tanning salon. For those who want the appearance of a tan then by all means feel free to get a spray-on or rub-on tan.

One of the more common problems we see during winter months is dry, itchy skin. The dry air at this time of year contributes to itchy skin. You might think that water exposure would help moisturize your skin, but the opposite is true. The more time you spend in water, and the hotter the water, the more dry and itchy you will get. For those with dry, itchy skin I recommend using a mild cleanser or soap, taking quick showers, and patting your skin dry. After patting your skin dry, it is the best time to apply a moisturizer. Try to limit your showers to once a day and avoid soaking in baths or hot tubs as this can make things worse. This time of year, I usually see many patients with dry, itchy skin caused by the combination of cold dry temperatures and nightly soaks in the hot tub. If you have problems with dry, itchy, or sensitive skin, feel free to call us today at 925-838-4900 to schedule an appointment. We are here to help.

Dr. Jerome Potozkin is a Board Certified Dermatologist and Board Certified Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon specializing in minimally and non-invasive cosmetic procedures. He is the author of “Botox and Beyond: Your Guide to Safe Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures.” The practice is accepting new patients and can be reached at (925) 838-4900 and www.MyBeautyMd.com. Advertorial

BECOME A FOOD RESCUE HERO VOLUNTEER DRIVERS DESPERATELY NEEDED!

White Pony Express (WPE) is expanding to meet the growing need for healthy food in our communities. Hunger is on the rise due to inflation and supply chain disruptions and fresh, nutritious food is out of reach for many of our neighbors. WPE needs volunteers willing to drive to help us meet this need. This can happen in a personal vehicle or one of our fleet vehicles. If you have a little time to spare and a good driving record, we would love to welcome you to our team of food rescue heroes. Together, we can end hunger in our county and beyond!

Contact Mandy and Ana at volunteer@whiteponyexpress.org for more information.

I THINK I MAY NEED SURGERY, NOW WHAT?

By Ann Marie Giusto, RN

Globally, a staggering 310 million surgeries are performed each year, up to 50 million in the US and 20 million in Europe. It is estimated that 1–4% of these patients will die and 5–15% will be readmitted within 30 days. Are you planning to have surgery soon? You can take steps to understand if the surgery is needed and prepare for the best possible recovery.

Recently, a long time Danville resident contacted me for support. Her knee had been bothering her. She was so frustrated that she scheduled an appointment with a surgeon in the hopes of having a knee replacement surgery. During our discussion, I learned that while she was planning for surgery, she didn’t realize that she had non-surgical options that could possibly help address her pain, including changes with nutrition, lifestyle, medications, and physical therapy. Non-surgical options, if done consistently, can either eliminate the need for surgery or postpone the need for having surgery.

If you have something that is bothering you, especially something that may be causing you pain or limiting your ability to do the daily activities you need or love, it is recommended to start with your primary care provider. Regardless of your insurance, this is a reasonable first step to be evaluated, discuss concerns, and develop a plan of care. When all non-surgical options are exhausted, such as medications (and in the case of our Danville neighbor, physical therapy), it may make sense to meet with a surgeon. At some point, you and your healthcare provider may determine that surgery is the most appropriate next step. What’s next?

• Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exams

• Contact Lens Exams

• Prescription Glasses and Sunglasses

In many cases, we are able to make your glasses in our office with our On-Site Lab

215 ALAMO PLAZA SUITE D ALAMO, CA 94507 www.poplarspecs.com

Here are some things you can consider for your initial appointment with your potential surgeon:

1. Prepare a list of your current medications (prescription, over-the-counter, and supplements).

2. Prepare a list of your medical history.

3. Prepare questions to ask and if possible, bring a friend/colleague to write down responses.

4. Be honest about your symptoms, and what you have been doing consistently to address them.

5. Ask what treatment options are available with pros and cons.

6. If surgery is recommended, what is the specific surgery, and what are the risks and benefits?

OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY MONDAY FRIDAY: 9 - 6 SATURDAY: 9 - 4

925.202.2846

Finding the most appropriate surgeon for your particular issue is key. What is a reasonable way to do this? You may quickly turn to your friends or even NextDoor. While this may be helpful, your primary care provider is a reliable resource because they are familiar with you and with colleagues. Secondly, call a surgeon’s office directly or review online biographies/studies to find out more information that may be relevant to you. For example, my teenage daughter recently tore a ligament in her knee playing competitive soccer. I turned to a surgeon that had extensive experience treating young athletes, had a high volume of successfully completing the specific surgery my daughter needed, and also had minimal complications. Lastly, scheduling a “second opinion” at UCSF Health, Stanford Health, or with other health care providers is another option. They may be able to provide recommendations, which may or may not include surgical interventions. A study completed in 2014 showed that second opinions and two consistent patient testimonials strongly affected respondents’ decision making.

7. Ask about the plan for recovery, including possible limitations (e.g not able to drive), and timeline.

8. Prepare an Advance Directive to share. (If needed, we can help support completing this document available at www.oag.ca.gov).

Discussing the possibility of your post surgery recovery with your surgeon can also be advantageous. While most patients would like to go directly home after surgery, it may be safest to transfer to a Rehabilitation or Skilled Nursing Facility prior to going home. Regardless, it is worthwhile to get your home set up for safety, especially to minimize risks for falls, make a plan with your medications as well as with food. While no one seems to ever want help, a family member, a neighbor or a hired caregiver (a licensed Home Health Aide) may be able to take/pick you up from your procedure as well as provide temporary or long term assistance at home post surgery.

For additional support, including discussing options, coordinating health care providers, coaching for appointments, providing post surgery care, recommending local Home Health Agencies and/or licensed caregivers, or support with medications, please call for a complimentary consultation at 925202-8250. For more information, visit www.BeWellRN.com. Ann Marie Giusto and my team of compassionate registered nurses are available 24/7. (Be Well at Home-Concierge Nursing Care Inc is not a nurse advice line). Advertorial Leape L.L. Hospital readmissions following surgery. Turning complications into ‘treasures’. J. Am. Med. Assoc. 2015;313(5):467–468. Accessed online January 11, 2023 Med Decis Making 2014 Jul;34(5):603-14. doi: 10.1177/0272989X14527796. Epub 2014 Apr 16. Hoffman, Caro, Gottlieb, Kesternich, Winter. Accessed online January 11, 2023

MEALS ON WHEELS VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS

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

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

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

Quilts continued from page 16

Barbara makes according to themes each mother selects are equally individual. Dianne Barnett, who serves on the “Stir Crazy Quilts” committee chaired by Mahan, has enjoyed quilting for many years. She remarks, “I appreciate the sense of tradition and social connectedness in quilting. I loved the family histories behind the patchwork quilts I saw in story books as a child. The Diablo Valley Quilters used to hand quilt the annual raffle quilt, but for many years now the quilts have been sent out to be finished by beautiful machine stitching. Although I finish my own quilts by machine, I am glad I had an opportunity to experience hand quilting with others around a frame. I have made many friends that way.”

Gathering around the quilting frame gave women a chance to spend time together, exchanging local news and gossip. In Home Life in Colonial Days, Alice Morse Earle writes: “When the patchwork was completed, it was laid flatly on the lining (often another expanse of patchwork), with layers of wool or cotton wadding between, and the edges were basted all around. Four bars of wood, about ten feet long, ‘the quiltin’ frame,’ were placed at the four edges, the quilt sewed to them with stout thread, the bars crossed and tied firmly at the corners, and the whole raised on chairs or tables at a convenient height. Thus around the outstretched quilt a dozen quilters could sit running the whole together with fanciful designs of stitching. When about a foot on either side was wholly quilted, it was rolled upon its bar, and the work went on ..." Curator Beverly Lane comments that the Museum’s collection of 15 antique quilts will remain in storage during this show, but some of the treadle machines used by local ladies to make them will be displayed. Opportunities to meet the artists in person are being planned. Visit the Museum’s website for more information: www.museumsrv.org. Located at 205 Railroad Avenue, Danville, the Museum is open Tuesday-Friday 1-4PM; Saturday 10AM-1PM; Sunday 12-3PM

MSC s - OFFERING HOPE FOR JOINT PAIN AND ARTHRITIS

By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

Align Healing Center has been a staple in the Danville community for 23 years, offering an ever-expanding range of services addressing people’s wellness needs. I have discovered medical therapies that work as an adjunct to the holistic services Align offers, allowing patients access to exceptional healing modalities. One of the most profound healing tools that I have discovered is Mesenchymal Stem Cell (MSC) therapy.

MSC therapy is a promising new treatment option for arthritis, a condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the joints. MSCs are a type of stem cell that have the ability to differentiate into various cell types, such as bone, cartilage, and tissue cells. These cells have recently gained attention for their potential to treat a variety of medical conditions, including arthritis. Arthritis is a common chronic condition characterized by inflammation and degeneration of the joints, leading to pain, stiffness, and loss of mobility. The current treatments for arthritis, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and surgery, are often inadequate and have significant side effects. MSCs have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and regenerative properties that make them a promising therapy for arthritis. When administered to patients, MSCs can reduce inflammation and promote the regeneration of damaged joint tissue.

One of the main benefits of MSC therapy for arthritis is its ability to promote the regeneration of damaged cartilage. Cartilage is a type of tissue that cushions the joints and allows for smooth movement, but it can be damaged by arthritis. MSCs can differentiate into new cartilage cells, which can help to repair the damage caused by arthritis.

Another benefit of MSC therapy is its ability to reduce inflammation. Inflammation is a key component of arthritis, and it can cause pain, stiffness, and loss of function in the affected joints. MSCs have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce the symptoms of arthritis.

In a study published in the Journal of Translational Medicine (2015), researchers treated patients with knee osteoarthritis using MSCs. They found that the treatment resulted in significant improvements in pain and function. The study authors concluded that MSCs “are a safe and effective treatment option for knee osteoarthritis.”

Another study published in the Journal of Bone and Joint Surgery (2018) found that treatment with MSCs improved pain and function in patients with knee osteoarthritis and decreased the need for total joint replacement surgery. The study authors concluded that MSCs “could be a viable alternative for the treatment of knee osteoarthritis.”

MSC therapy is also thought to have the potential to modulate the immune system. In many cases, arthritis is caused by an abnormal immune response, and MSCs have been shown to have immunomodulatory properties, which can help to regulate the immune response and reduce inflammation.

TELECARE CONNECTS WITH THE HOMEBOUND

Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, have been making weekday reassurance calls to seniors and the homebound in our community. Clients can anticipate a friendly exchange of ideas with trained volunteers who provide high quality, consistent communications. If a client cannot be reached, family members will be notified. This service is free! Make that call to get you or someone you know connected! For more information, call 925-934-0901. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s other philanthropic programs, please visit www. assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley

A third study published in the International Journal of Rheumatic Diseases (2019) found that treatment with MSCs led to significant improvement in pain, function, and quality of life in patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The authors of the study concluded that MSCs “could be a safe and effective treatment option for rheumatoid arthritis.”

MSC therapy is also a non-surgical and minimally invasive procedure. It is usually done by injecting MSCs directly into the affected joint. This procedure is relatively simple and can be done on an outpatient basis, which makes it a more convenient option for many patients.

Overall, MSC therapy has many potential benefits for people with arthritis. It can help to regenerate damaged cartilage, reduce inflammation, and modulate the immune response. It is a non-surgical and minimally invasive procedure, making it a safe, more convenient option for many patients.

At Align we offer many options to assist you in living a pain-free life. Find us at AlignHealingCenter.com or give us a call at 925-362-8283 for a complimentary 15 minute consultation.

Dr. Niele Maimone, DC of Align Healing Center Maimone Chiropractic Inc. in Danville has been active in natural health & functional medicine since 1999. Advertorial

Barbara Mahan sits with her happy quartet of "ABCD Kids."

HOSPICE AND HEALTH SERVICES

THE EYE OPENER

By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry THE EYE AND DIABETES

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of vision loss in the country and the incidence continues to increase. There are many factors that contribute to this increase, and they include genetics, diet, lifestyle, and increased body weight. Since the incidence of diabetes is on the rise, I thought this was a good place and time to discuss this serious and complex condition. Because diabetes is a vascular disorder (affecting blood vessels), it can affect every organ and tissue in the body including liver, kidneys, brain, and eyes. Obviously, I will only discuss the eyes here, but keep in mind diabetes is a disease of the entire body.

For many patients, a change in their vision or fluctuating vision is the first sign of poorly regulated blood sugar. As the blood sugar levels in the body rise and fall, the prescription usually follows. I often tell these patients that their blood sugar needs to be in a confined zone to be able to accurately prescribe glasses for them. Assuming there is no bleeding or edema in the retina, the main cause for this is a swelling of the lens. The lens swells in diabetics which causes it to change shape and, therefore, change the prescription. Normally, a patient will still be able to see 20/20, but there will be a large change in the prescription from the prior year. In patients where there is a large unexplained change in prescription without any other risk factors, the number one assumption is diabetes until proven otherwise. Since the eyes require a large amount of oxygen and nutrients to function, it has an extensive supply of blood vessels to meet this demand. In diabetes, the structural integrity of these blood vessels eventually begins to break down and leak blood and fluid into the retina. This fluid accumulation can lead to decreased vision, especially when it is located around the macula and/or the optic nerve. Diabetic retinopathy (a diabetic altering of the retinal blood vessels) is the main condition that needs to be checked thoroughly at the annual examination. Because of this, diabetic patients should annually have their retina imaged and/or dilated along with an OCT scan, regardless of age and medical control of the diabetes. Since the retina is the only place in the body where the blood vessels can be observed without an invasive procedure, it gives a particularly good indication on how well (or poorly) the blood sugar levels are being regulated. If the retina looks healthy, then, for the most part, you can assume the other organs in the body are also fine.

Keep in mind, there can be a lot of diabetic changes to the retina and blood vessels that do not necessarily affect vision. This underscores the need for annual exams as a lot of times early changes can now be detected and treated before vision is compromised. Depending on the location and severity of the retinopathy, a retinal consult might be necessary. Regardless, a letter is always sent to your primary doctor outlining my findings and any further visits or treatment that is necessary.

Diabetes is a very serious condition and should be treated as such. I always tell my patients to follow-up with their medical doctor and other specialists as needed to ensure the entire body is working properly. Treatment options usually include, but are not limited to, lifestyle modification, medication, weight loss, and smoking cessation, if applicable. Depending on the findings, further visits might be required, but a visit to the eye doctor needs to be done at least annually. For all of our diabetic patients, we look forward to seeing you for your next annual dilated exam to ensure good vision and eyes that are free from any diabetic complications.

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

SALINE OR SILICONE?

By Dr. Barbara Persons, MD, FACS

Every woman is born with breasts that are not perfectly even. Some patients may wish they were born with bigger breasts. As a female plastic surgeon with specialized training and experience in breast surgery, I can effectively and precisely enlarge a woman’s natural breasts with breast implants. Implants, whether silicone or saline, make it possible to enhance each woman’s natural beauty while giving her the size she desires.

In a typical week, I consult with a dozen or so women seeking breast augmentation. A number of questions and topics are discussed with the most popular being...saline or silicone? There are many factors involved in making the proper choice. This makes the need for an in-depth consultation even more critical. In general, most women are choosing the new generation of silicone gel implants versus saline, although an increasing number are also opting for fat grafting. Recent studies have supported the use of fat grafting to the breast. This article will focus on the differences between silicone, saline, and fat transplantation to the breast and what every woman should know before making the appropriate choice.

Both silicone and saline implants have an outer silicone shell. The silicone implants come pre-filled with a cohesive silicone gel, whereas the saline implants are filled with sterile saline after being placed. As an aside, the debate surrounding the safety of silicone implants has largely been resolved, as there has not been a single substantiated case of silicone-filled implants causing systemic disease.

Depending on the patient’s decision regarding implant choice, approach (belly button, infra mammary fold, armpit, or nipple) and size, the implant is placed in a pocket created under the pectoralis-major muscle (sub-pectoral) or under the breast tissue (sub-glandular).The type of implant placed, the size, and the shape will be determined by a number of factors discussed during the consultation. For now, we can look at the general differences and advantages of each type.

Saline implants tend to be chosen by a younger demographic prior to having children. Because these implants are filled after they are placed under the breast tissue, the incision can be more distant (such as the umbilical method of implantation) and will result in almost no visible scarring which is a big appeal for this age group. Saline implants have no impact on breast feeding. They have a lifespan of approximately 7-10 years. For women in this age group the timing usually works out well. There could be an additional need for a breast lift after childbirth at which time it is convenient for the patient to replace her implants. Risks associated with saline implants include breast pain, changes in nipple sensation, infection, capsular contracture, deflation, and the need for revision. Saline implants are less optimal for women seeking larger implants such as a D cup, as the heavier weight of saline increases the risk of downward displacement and rippling. This heavier weight also makes saline feel less natural.

Silicone implants have once again become the more popular choice among all age groups, even though the implants themselves cost more, as the thicker, gel-like consistency creates a more natural look and feel. These implants are highly effective at creating a natural effect for women desiring small, moderate, or ample breast size. Arriving from the manufacturer pre-filled and sized, the augmentation procedure using this type of implants requires a small incision, often in the crease below the breast and results in a very small scar, typically hidden under the breast. The risks associated with silicone implants are similar to those associated with saline, while having a significantly longer lifespan. If you have existing silicone or saline implants and are unhappy or have noticed changes to the shape of your breasts, please make an appointment for a consultation to ensure that an implant deflation or leak has not occurred.

Recent advances in fat harvesting and grafting has made fat transfer the fastest growing method of breast augmentation in my practice. It is ideal for women looking to increase their breasts by one cup size, for example from B to a small C. Fat transfer is often incorporated with breast lift (mastopexy), reconstruction, and augmentation. Mild liposuction is used to remove the fat from an unwanted area such as the flanks or abdomen. The fat is then processed to obtain the highest quality and number of fat cells and adipose derived stem cells. It is then injected into the desired areas in tiny droplets using a syringe and without a need for any additional incisions; a superior aesthetic result is the norm. The final result of fat transfer becomes visible by the end of three months and improves over the first 12 months. The fat grafting take-rate averages about 60% of volume injected, but, unlike implants, the fat grafts that take should last a lifetime.

The one aspect of my plastic surgery training that I am most proud of is my fellowship in Aesthetic, Breast & Laser Surgery. In addition to nine years of surgical training, including general surgery, trauma, and plastic surgery, my cosmetic fellowship provided me with exceptional tools and incomparable experience in creating the most suitable outcomes for these types of surgeries. The Cosmetic & Reconstructive Surgery Center in Lafayette has one of the largest consignments of implants in the Bay Area which enables us to find the perfect size and shape for you using the approach you want. Whether you are considering a breast augmentation for the first time, or are a patient with existing implants looking for a change, I look forward to sharing my experience and expertise in determining the most suitable augmentation option for you.

Barbara L Persons, MD, FACS is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc., located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She can be reached at 925-283-4012 or drpersons@personsplasticsurgery.com Advertorial

FUN AT THE DANVILLE SENIOR CENTER

The Danville Senior Center offers a Monday Senior Lunch program. Lunches are provided in partnership with Café Costa and served at noon each Monday. Participants can enjoy puzzles and board games in the Community Hall at the Danville Senior Center (located at 115 E Prospect Ave, Danville) before lunch and stay for a free weekly movie following lunch. Residents wishing to participate will need to complete a County NAPIS form and call in their reservation by noon the Friday before. Forms are available at the Danville Senior Center. The lunch program is provided in partnership with Contra Costa County and has a suggested donation of $3 for those 60 and up. Those under 60 can still enjoy lunch for a $6 fee. Menus are available at www.danville.ca.gov/seniors, and vegetarian options are available by request.

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

CPC SENIORS

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

Please join in! The first Tuesday of the month offers BINGO and prizes, while the third Tuesday of the month generally has a variety of presentations or entertainment. A delicious home-made lunch is provided for $4. For more information, visit www.cpcdanville.org/seniors or call Cyndi Davi at 925-827-5525 x 418.

$0 Cleanings!

For most insured patients. Call for details. Maximizing Insurance & Exceeding All Expectations

One Office for All Your Dental Needs

The Latest Procedures, Instruments, & Techniques

Gentle Private-Practice Dentist • Dental Implants

Advanced Periodontal Therapy • Porcelain Veneers

Custom Teeth Whitening • Digital X-Rays

Invisalign Clear Braces

220

Open Monday - Thursday and the first two Saturdays of each month.

Meet Dr. Yvonne Hyland & Her Family

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

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

YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST DO I HAVE TO CUT CARBS TO LOSE WEIGHT?

By Linda Michaelis RD, MS

The holidays are a distant memory. I am currently seeing many new clients that are struggling and wondering if they should eat carbs or not in order to lose and maintain weight.

So, is it necessary to cut carbs to lose weight? Let’s look at the evidence behind low carb diets and weight loss.

I often see people are afraid of the “big bad carb,” but, if you ask them, they could not even tell you most of the foods that have carbs. They will say breads definitely have carbs. However, if you ask about legumes, such as lentils, kidney beans, garbanzo beans, or peas, they will say, “Maybe.” If you ask them about veggies they are often not sure.

Carbs are life-sustaining molecules that provide immediate energy for our bodies and, most importantly, our brain. Our brain runs primarily on carbohydrates or sugar molecules: glucose. When there is not enough of this in the diet, our body converts other molecules like protein and fats into glucose.

CARBOHYDRATES AND WEIGHT LOSS

Research does not support the idea that you need to cut carbs to lose weight. Studies show that any diet will help you initially lose weight.

Any macronutrient, such as carbs, protein, or fat, can be converted by our bodies into fat tissue when we eat too much overall.

People who eat high-carb plant-based meals tend to be lower in weight compared to people eating lower carb diets. Plant-based diets tend to be lower in overall calories and higher in satiety because of a high fiber content.

FIBER AND WEIGHT LOSS

Satiety, the feeling of fullness, plays a major role in our ability to manage weight. If you feel full and satisfied after a meal you are less likely to overeat.

Eating foods rich in fiber maximizes satiety. We can be satiated at every

meal by including a good sources of protein, healthy fats, and the right kind of carbs that are rich in fiber. These carbs include whole grains, nuts, seeds, legumes, fruits, and veggies.

LOW CARB DIETS AND WEIGHT LOSS

Low carb diets often result in rapid initial weight loss where we lose body weight from water or lean muscle, and not desired body fat tissue. Low carb diets deplete the body’s glycogen stores and release water.

In my experience with clients that have been on a prolonged low carb diet, they tend to be tired and cannot consistently exercise because they are low on glucose. They are eating high amounts of red and processed meats and saturated fats with a low intake of health-promoting nutrients like fiber.

WORKING WITH LINDA RD

When I work with a client I make sure they continue to eat their favorite foods, and feel full and satisfied after each meal. I want to teach them an eating pattern that they can follow for the rest of their life.

This will include carbs! When I start with a new client we come up with exactly how many carbs they should consume in a day. I show them how to spread their consumption out over their daily meals.

The big discussion is always about what we do when we are socializing and going out to restaurants. We want to enjoy this time. We need to plan for having carbs at the event and not to have carbs prior.

Let me give you an example. If you are going to a pizza party and you want to have a couple slices of pizza, I suggest an egg white omelet for breakfast, and for lunch chicken lettuce wraps or tuna stuffed in a tomato. Before you go to the party have some cottage cheese and veggies so you won’t be too hungry.

If you feel that you are struggling with your nutrition, let me take you by the hand and set up an individualized meal plan for you.

Nutritional counseling is usually covered by health insurance including ABMG, Aetna, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, CCHP, Hill, Sutter, UHC and others. I am happy to call on your behalf and see what your plan offers. Please visit www.LindaRD.com to learn more about my services. Email me at lifeweight1@yahoo.com, or call me at 925-855-0150 to tell me about your nutritional concerns and see how I may help you. Advertorial