editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 1
JULY 2017
FRANK LEACH: MAN OF ACTION, MAN OF WORDS
By Jody Morgan
The community celebrated Alamo’s new bocce ball courts at Livorna Park with an official ribbon cutting ceremony on Friday June 16th. Pictured left to right are Jen Quallick - aide to Supervisor Andersen, MAC Member Steve Mick, Supervisor Candace Andersen, MAC Vice Chair Susan Rock, Beverly Lane - East Bay Regional Parks District Board, MAC member Jill Winspear, Alamo resident Joe Rubay, MAC Member Sanjiv Bhandari, and Victoria Skerritt from Contra Costa Public Works. Public Works oversaw the building of the bocce ball courts for the past year using funds granted by East Bay Regional Parks as part of voter approved Measure WW. The demand for the bocce ball courts was determined by a survey of Alamo taxpayers in 2011. Courts are available on a first come, first served basis.
PACIFIC MAHJONG LEAGUE
By Fran Miller
If the game of Mahjong has ever piqued your interest, the Pacific Mahjong League (PML) invites you to learn more. This fun and sociable game combines a balance of luck, skill, and strategy that makes for intriguing competition. And it can be played for a lifetime. The game is also widely believed by researchers to aid memory. The game of Riichi Mahjong often appears overly complicated, says Daniel
Moreno, a PML organizer. “Even those who know how to play often find it difficult to teach others effectively. But luckily we have some people at the club who are amazing teachers that have experience teaching hundreds of people.
See Mahjong continued on page 19 Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA
ECRWSS
Frank Aleamon Leach is best remembered for saving the San Francisco Mint from impending destruction during the conflagration that followed the 1906 Earthquake and immediately stabilizing San Francisco’s financial community. Once he finally managed to retire, Leach enjoyed exploring Mount Diablo as a charter member of the Mount Diablo Park Club and writing articles for the Oakland Tribune concerning his observations. His autobiography, Recollections of a Newspaperman: A Record of Life and Events in California, ends with his return from Frank A. Leach, son Abe B. Leach, and grandson Abe Washington, DC to Oakland, B. Leach, Jr. at Diablo Decoration Day Tournament, CA in 1909. His delight in 1918 (photo courtesy of David Mackesey) Diablo’s natural bounty continued until his death in 1929. Born in Auburn, New York on August 19, 1846, Frank Leach traveled with his mother by steamer in 1852 to join his father who had made the trip almost two years in advance of their journey. His first experience with a major urban fire occurred that December in Sacramento and was followed by a flood that littered the roads with furniture and personal effects. Subsequent experiences made him no stranger to fighting a blaze when the time for action arrived. Sacramento life did not agree with his mother’s health. Leach recalls his family’s 1857 move to Napa where they arrived after dark. “I was tired and went to bed early and was awakened soon after daylight by music new to my ears, but so delightful and sweet, the impress on my memory has never dimmed. It was the singing of hundreds of various kinds of wild birds, living and nesting in the trees and brush bordering the stream flowing back of our hotel.” Always a student of nature, but never excelling in academics, Leach determined at age 17 that his best chance for employment was in utilizing skills he acquired helping his father build and repair wagons. His slight stature, he recalls, probably caused him to be rejected repeatedly in his application to apprentice as a machinist in San Francisco. Returning to Napa, he was hired by the Napa Register and learned the printing trade from the bottom up. Leach’s expertise in the mechanics of the printing trade and his ability to make friends and secure partners with talents complementing his own fostered his success. His personal connections as well as the Volume XVII - Number 7 editorial integrity of the newspapers he 3000F Danville Blvd. #117, established (first in Napa, then in Vallejo Alamo, CA 94507 and eventually in Oakland) led to his Telephone (925) 405-NEWS, 405-6397 election to the State Legislature and his Fax (925) 406-0547 appointment as Postmaster of Vallejo. Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher In 1897, President McKinley apEditor@yourmonthlypaper.com pointed Leach Superintendent of the Sharon Burke ~ Writer San Francisco Mint. On April 18, 1906, The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do at 5:12AM Leach was awakened along not necessarily reflect that of Alamo Today. Alamo Today
See Leach cont. on pg. 20
is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 2 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
BOULEVARD VIEW
By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
In both Alamo and Danville, there is a summer line- up of community music in the park and movies under the stars to partake in with our family, friends, and neighbors. I encourage all of you to step outside and spend a few warm (hopefully not too warm!) evenings enjoying all our area has to offer. Gatherings and events such as these are what make our communities a special place to be. At my own home, I have been enjoying the summery outdoors as well. I recently planted a new front yard with a focus on bringing in native wildlife and plants. It is fun to see the new “guests” that are stopping by. During planning and implementation of the yard, the goal was to invite lizards, butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds to a place where they could stop, fill up on nectar, or take a rest on a sunny rock. The results are resoundingly successful. For the first time in 20 years, I am seeing lizards scurrying about, hummingbirds stopping at each bush to take part of drinking in the nectar, and bees loading up their legs with pollen. It is amazing what you can achieve when you have a vision, and a plan, and can execute to make it happen. I have found that being surrounded by these improvements causes me to stop and notice little things more (and not just the occasional weed that pops up in the new landscape!). It prompts me to take a deep breath and reflect. I am now focusing more on what I am hearing, what am I seeing, what am I feeling, and what I am sensing within the landscape and my own life. Being mindful and present are new
terms for me as I have always prided myself on multitasking and keeping my brain thinking two steps ahead. However, as I get older I think the ideas of simplification, mindfulness, and presence make a lot of sense. As I’ve tried to focus on prioritizing my day and being mindful of my surroundings, I have begun walking more. The extra time up and about away from my computer and desk papers has been eye opening (and good for adding more “steps” into my routine). I have become more observant. In general I try and look ahead where the road is going. However, I have also been looking down at the pavement. On a short one mile walk up the hilly street near me, I peered down and observed a “bug highway.” Funny, I had never seen the plethora of small snakes, beetles, millipedes, caterpillars, and insects that travel these roads just as we do. Driving down the road I noticed that a freeway overpass houses mud swallow nests. Have those nests always been there? Or, after 20 years of living here am I just noticing this for the first time? I ponder these questions. A bird nest outside my back door draws more wonder. My husband and I watched the nest being built bit by bit. It is full of twigs, grasses, and dog hair (of which there is plenty to be found). We watched mom and dad fly back and forth in their preparation and set up a “bird cam” to observe what was going on. Our bird cam showed two eggs, but five chicks appeared. They are now growing, and recently I saw the first one flutter its wings. Pretty soon they will move on to fly above our communities. We are lucky to be surrounded by hills to hike in, Mt. Diablo and other venues to camp at, green foliage (finally), running streams, and nature in our midst. I have spotted an occasional coyote trampling through the grasses in the foothills, sharing their fields with grazing cows, and passersby on horseback. The other day I was alerted to a loud “flapping” sound and turkeys flying low overhead. Their huge mass in the air is a sight to see. Being more present makes the world around us “pop.” I find there is so much we overlook in the hustle and bustle of our daily lives. There are many sights and sounds to enjoy. I hope you get the opportunity to get out and take part. Happy summer!
Alamo Municipal Advisory Council presents
2017 Movie Under the Stars
PUBLIC NOTICE – JULY 30, 2017 Local Artist Beth Batchelor turns 100! Come one, come all to celebrate!
Movie starts at 8:45 p.m. Livorna Park in Alamo.
(Located at the corner of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue)
Admission is Free
The Secret Life of Pets Friday, June 16th
Finding Dory Friday, July 21st
This cute, young-at-heart lady is turning 100 years young on July 30. She will be showing off her art work and celebrating her special day at the Alamo Women’s Club, located at 1401 Danville Boulevard, Alamo. Please come by for a luncheon at 1PM and festivities lasting until 9PM! For more information, or to RSVP, please call Dale Bridges at (925) 876-9710. Bring blankets, chairs, flashlights, snacks, family and friends. For information call recreation staff at (925) 313-2272.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 3
Coming Soon - Westside Danville UNBELIEVABLE Mt. Diablo Views, Separate Casita/ Guest House
s& w ie ws V , s Vie w VieMore
THIS HOME WILL NOT LAST LONG!
Single level, 4 bedrooms, 3 baths, approx. 3000 sq.ft., 80% of property completely remodeled, floor to ceiling windows, brand new exterior deck to enjoy those beautiful views of Mt. Diablo, 2+ Acre Lot, gated, pool. Detached guest house, +/- 900 sq.ft. with views from back deck, kitchen, full bathroom and separate parking area.
If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell their home,
Call Brad today at 925-998-5151
BradGothberg.com
With over 30 years experience and the most extensive list of inventory in the San Ramon Valley
Brad Gothberg ¦ J.Rockcliff Realtors ¦ CAL DRE# 00964026 ¦ 925-998-5151 ¦ BGothberg@Rockcliff.com
DANVILLE CHILDREN’S TRIATHLON
Children ages 7-10 are invited to “tri” the sport of triathlon at the Second Annual Danville Children’s Triathlon, which will be held on July 29 at Monte Vista High School. This swim-bike-run event is a great way to introduce children to the sport of triathlon. The majority of participants in the 2016 event were first-time triathletes. In order to keep the focus on safety and fun, the event isn’t timed. All participants will receive a finisher’s medal and hat. Race distances for the age groups: • Ages 7 & 8: Swim four laps (100 yards), bike one mile, run one lap (.25 miles) around the track • Ages 9 & 10: Swim six laps (150 yards), bike two miles, run two laps (.50 miles) around the track. An information session is scheduled for July 28. At the meeting, parents and athletes will hear about the event and be able to ask questions. Registration can be done online at www.danvillerecguide.com or by contacting the Danville Community Center at (925) 314-3400.
SPECIAL!
SAN RAMON VALLEY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
You are invited to attend the July 18th meeting of the San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society from 10 to noon at the Latter-day Saints Church, 2949 Stone Valley Road in Alamo. The group will have a mini-seminar on DNA presented by Pam Miller. All are welcome. For more information, visit http://srvgensoc.org or email nts prese SRVGS@SRVGenSoc.org. AM
BLACKHAWK “FIRST SUNDAY” CARS & COFFEE
Blackhawk Automotive Museum hosts a monthly Cars & Coffee event year round for all car enthusiasts. Held on the “First Sunday” of each month, starting at 8AM and going to 10AM, the Museum welcomes all classic, collector, and special interest car owners and enthusiasts. On Cars & Coffee Sundays, the Museum opens an hour earlier, at 9AM, and participating car owners will receive complimentary Museum admission tickets. The Museum is located at 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville. For more information, visit www.blackhawkmuseum.org/carsncoffee. html, call (925) 736-2280, or email museum@blackhawkmuseum.org.
HAMILTON TO
HAIRSPRAY a musical revue! Village Theatre, Danville August 11th-13th, 2017 Friday@ 7pm Saturday @ 2pm & 7pm Sunday @ 2pm
Goblet 13 oz.
High Style Wine Glasses & Goblets reg. 44.00 set of 4
NOW 24.99 set of 4 (6.25 each stem)
Hand Crafted – Lead Free
Tickets
$20
www.ICanDoThatTheatre.com ICDT is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization
Wine 12 oz.
Walnut Creek, Broadway Plaza Danville, The Livery
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 4 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
SONS IN RETIREMENT SAN RAMON VALLEY
DANVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE presents
ALOHA
GOLF TOURNAMENT 18-Hole, Par 72, Championship Golf Course 599 Blackhawk Club Drive Danville, CA, 94506 ●
SCRAMBLE FORMAT
●
HOLE SPONSORSHIPS
●
RAFFLE PRIZES
●
PUTTING & CHIPPING CONTEST
INCLUDES:
MONDAY
JULY 10
2017
BLACKHAWK COUNTRY CLUB
REGISTRATION - 10:30AM BBQ LUNCH - 11-12PM SHOTGUN START - 12PM NO-HOST COCKTAILS - 5:30PM DINNER, AWARDS & RAFFLE - 6PM CONTACT: Danville Area Chamber at 925-837-4400 OR visit www.danvilleareachamber.com
Are you looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining Sons in Retirement San Ramon Valley Branch 128. The group has monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. Additionally, members have lots of fun participating in a variety of activities including golf, bowling, bocce ball, movies, cooking, finance, bridge, reading, computers, and much more. Many other activities such as travel, dine outs, excursions, baseball games, and holiday parties include spouses, friends, and guests. The next monthly luncheon will be held on Wednesday, July 19th at 11AM. The guest speaker will be Mark Roseman, a highly accomplished attorney and author. His presentation will focus on an overview of conditions in prison that require self preservation skills and how those skills are developed--fast! Be ready for a very interesting presentation. Your $25 luncheon fee includes a meal, guest speaker, and a great opportunity to socialize with at least 170 other retirees from the San Ramon Valley. The luncheon will be held at The Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge in San Ramon. To reserve a space, please email by Thursday, July 13th to info@SIR128.com. For more information about this retirement branch and activities, please visit www.SIR128.com.
TREATS FOR THE TROOPS
Charity group Delta Nu Psi will be collecting treats to ship to and support our troops in Afghanistan. The collections will take place at CVS in Alamo on July 7 and Lunardi’s in Danville on July 14 both events take place from 11:30AM until 1:30PM. Thanks to all of the fantastic shoppers the group has mailed 1,503 boxes filled with 36,863 pounds of “gourmet junk food.” The troops especially love fresh ground strong coffee! To learn more and see the photo of the new squad receiving our packages visit www.deltanupsi.org.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com VOLUNTEER AT MT. DIABLO STATE PARK
There are several exciting volunteer opportunities at Mt. Diablo State Park over the upcoming months. Projects needing assistance are: • Maintaining and improving hiking trails throughout the park • Control of invasive plants, such as yellow star thistle • Repairing and repainting park facilities, such as fences, picnic tables, and outhouses Service projects out in nature tend be excellent team-building activities, and they can support feelings of cooperation and respect among school groups, community organizations, and co-workers. Projects can accommodate a range of participant ages and group sizes, and a work day for weekends or week days can be planned. Volunteer Field Projects Coordinator can work with you and your organization to design a project that will make a significant contribution to our beautiful park, and that will be a fun and memorable experience for you and your organization. For answers to questions and for more information, contact Silas Ellison at 925-837-6122, 925-837-6819, by cell phone at 617-335-6833, or by email at silas.ellison@parks.ca.gov.
MUSEUM VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Alamo Municipal Advisory Council presents the
2017 Summer Concert Series
Fridays 6:30 6:30-- 8:30p.m. at Livorna Park (At the corner of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue in Alamo)
FREE ADMISSION!
June 23rd: The Sun Kings
Performing the music of The Beatles with driving energy, spot-on arrangements, and vocal harmonies
June 30th: Mike Amaral’s California Beach Boys
Tribute band to the Beach Boys bringing precise harmonies, energy, and excitement
July 7th: The Houserockers
Rock & Soul band playing timeless classics featuring dynamic horn and rhythm sections
Looking to get involved in the community? The Museum of the San Ramon Valley needs your help. Volunteer positions are available in the following areas: • Walking Tour Docents • Museum Docents • Events Committee • Greeters • Educational Programs (One Room School/Indian Life) Call Eve or Donna at 552-9693, or email srvmuseum@sbcglobal.net for additional information.
BOOKS FOR THE HOMEBOUND
If you or someone you know has a passion for reading and can no longer visit the library, find out more about the Danville Library’s Books for the Homebound program, a free and unique library service. Trained library volunteers check out and deliver books to homebound individuals residing in their own homes or residential care facilities. Contact Sandra Paiva, Volunteer Coordinator, at the Danville Library at (925) 837-4889 for more information.
July 14th: Cocktail Monkeys
Covering Rock, Pop and R&B hits spanning several decades with high-energy and showmanship
July 28th: Moonalice
Psychedelic, roots-rock band mixing a variety of genres with extended musical improvisations
Bring blankets, chairs, snacks, family, and friends. For information, call recreation staff at (925) 313-2272.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 5
THE LATEST... LUXURY SALES BY CAROLYN GWYNN SOLD WITH MULTIPLE OFFERS
SOLD
PENDING IN 6 DAYS W/MULTIPLE OFFERS
ALAMO
DANVILLE
DANVILLE
125 Stephanie Lane
705 Century Way
1754 Birds Hill Court
Represented Seller & Buyer
Represented Buyer
Represented Seller
CAROLYN GWYNN Realtor®
| 925.336.7525
carolyn@thegwynngroup.com www.carolyngwynn.com
Thinking of selling your property? The Realtor you list with does make a difference. I gain sellers the highest sales prices in our community with high-end marketing and skillful negotiation. Please contact me for an appointment.
HAMILTON TO HAIRSPRAY: A BROADWAY REVUE
I Can Do That theatre Company proudly presents Hamilton to Hairspray: A Broadway Revue at the Danville Village Theatre. Performances will be held Friday, August 11th at 7PM, Saturday, August 12th at 2PM and 7PM, and Sunday, August 13th at 2PM. Tickets cost $20 and can be purchased online at www.ICanDoThatTheatre.com or by calling (925) 314-3400.
GOLF!
A L A M O DA N V I L L E A R T I S T S ’ S O C I E T Y PRESENTS “IMPULSE!”
The Alamo Danville Artists’ Society (ADAS) will host the opening of Blackhawk Gallery’s new exhibit Impulse!. A gala reception will be held on Saturday, July 15, 5 - 7PM, with wine and hors d’oeuvres. The exhibit will be on view seven days a week from July 14 to September 17. The reception and exhibit are free and open to the public. The exhibit features one guest artist and 40 member artists. Guest artist Linda V. Hubbard will be showing her 3D Fiber Art. Members’ artworks include paintings, drawings, sculptures, ceramics, photographs, and wearable art. Blackhawk Gallery is located at 3416 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville in the Blackhawk Plaza. Regular Gallery hours are Monday-Saturday 10AM-8PM and Sunday 11AM-6PM. For additional information, call (925) 648-8023 or visit www.BlackhawkGallery.org, www.ADAS4art. o r g , o r h t t p s : / / w w w. facebook.com/AlamoDanvilleArtistsSociety. Oil painting by Blackhawk Gallery Artist Tom Lemmer
SWING FOR SHELTER MONDAY, JULY 24 2017
Enjoy a beautiful day on the course followed by a no-host cocktail hour, silent auction, live auction and dinner. All proceeds benefit SHELTER, Inc. in its work to prevent and end homelessness.
REGISTER: SHELTERINC.ORG/SWING PRESENTED BY
SPONSORED BY
Robert & Janet Besse
Dick & Carol Hyman
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 6 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE WAY SIDE INN THRIFT SHOP CELEBRATES “CHRISTMAS IN JULY”
The dedicated member volunteers at Assistance League® Way Side Inn Thrift Shop, located at 3521 Golden Gate Way in Lafayette, question the adage that “Christmas comes but once a year.” Currently volunteers are hastily preparing for the annual “Christmas in July” event, slated to begin on Tuesday, July 18 and conclude on Saturday, July 29. These red-smocked summertime elves are organizing “sleighsful” of Christmas inventory that again promise to bring a festive holiday look to your home. Picture such accouterments as wreaths, garlands enhanced with lights (many of them never used), as well as angels, Santas, and elves adorning your hearth. An eye-catching selection of tree ornaments, as well as collectibles such as Boyd’s Bears and Santa & Friends, promise to enrich your holiday memories. As tradition would have it, the bountiful treasures disappear as quickly as Santa when ascending the chimney, so please plan accordingly. By attending the “Christmas in July” event, you can avoid the frenzied holiday crowds and create a holiday ambiance that exudes joy and harmony. As always, a heartfelt thanks to all of you for your generous donations and purchases, both of which improve the lives of those in our community who are vulnerable. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s philanthropic programs that its thrift shop primarily funds, please visit our website at diablovalley.assistanceleague.org.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
White Pony Express (WPE) is a nonprofit group dedicated to helping to end hunger and poverty in Contra Costa County. The program has been so well received that additional volunteers are urgently needed to help keep up with its rapid growth. The need in our communities remains great. Seven days a week, WPE Food Rescue volunteers take trucks to supermarkets, restaurants, and farmers markets where they pick up thousands of pounds of surplus food—high quality, nourishing food (fresh meats, dairy, eggs, deli, baked goods). Most all of this food is distributed to those in need within two hours of the donation. In its first two and half years, WPE delivered more than 3,000,000 pounds of food (equivalent to 2,500,000 meals) that the hungry would have gone without. Also, in addition to rescuing food, WPE collects donations of new or like-new clothing, shoes, toys, games, and books. More than 250,000 of these items have been distributed to those in need in the past two years—all free of charge, through WPE’s unique “Mobile Boutiques” and its Direct Distribution program. Interested volunteers please contact Mandy Nakaya at 925-818-6361 or mandy@ whiteponyexpress.org. For more information, visit www.whiteponyexpress.org. 8
Lost Dog!
$50 REWARD
If you find her and your name is drawn!
Alamo Zoe is Missing
Alamo Zoe has become lost in this paper... Search through Alamo Today and see if you can find her! She is very small, so you will have to look hard if you want to find her.
To be eligible send a letter telling us where you found her, along with your name and address, to: Lost Dog! ~ Alamo Today 3000F Danville Blvd #117 • Alamo, CA 94507
Barbara Dougherty is our winner!
Ro u n d H i l l C o u n t r y C l u b
Offer Extended Through August 1
Renovation Special Renovate your lifestyle Now that we have started our Clubhouse renovation, Round Hill Country Club is offering up to a $10,000 credit on a limited number of new Memberships. • Golf Membership: Initiation $40,000*, receive a credit on the Member account of $10,000. • Tennis Membership: Initiation $6,000, receive a credit on the Member account of $3,000. • Associate-Swim Membership: Initiation $2,500, receive a credit on the Member account of $1,250. • Social Membership: Initiation $1250 -Back for a very limited offering Available through August 1, 2017. Promotional credits are usable for any charges other than Initiation Fees. Admissions Requirements apply. *Purchase of a share also required for Golf Membership
Please contact our Membership Office for more details at rhcc@roundhillcc.org or 925.314.2901 Offer subject to change without prior notice.
www.rhcountryclub.com
TOTALLY TRAINS: MODELS AND MEMORABILIA
The Museum of the San Ramon Valley once again proudly presents “Totally Trains-Models and Memorabilia.” The exhibit will run through the Freight Room at the Depot through August 7. The main layout of the exhibit has two elevations with four running trains, scenery, bridges, a trestle, a tunnel, and a village with a replica of the Museum, the former Southern Pacific Depot. A secondary layout features a number of working accessories. On display are items from three private collections of model trains dating from the early to mid1900s. They include Lionel & American Flyer Standard gauge and Marx O gauge. Don’t forget to purchase your Totally Trains Family Pass! This family ticket costs only $10 and allows for unlimited visits to the exhibit. Special train exhibit hours: • Tuesday through Saturday – 10AM to 1PM • Sunday – 12PM to 3PM • Closed Mondays The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located in the restored train depot on the corner of Railroad and Prospect Avenues in downtown Danville. Free parking is available. For more information, call (925) 837-375, e-mail srvmuseum@sbcglobal. net, or visit www.musemsrv.org.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 7
CELESTE PACELLI Proudly Presents... To receive Up To Date Market Analysis Reports, email me today!
33 BRIGHTWOOD LANE E., DANVILLE | JUST LISTED!
Offered at $2,495,000 | www.33BrightwoodLane.com Magee Ranch! Gorgeous home with 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths, approx. 4850 sq. ft. Resort like backyard with spa, pool & pavilion.
1625 CAMPESINO COURT, ALAMO | JUST LISTED!
148 ALAMO SPRINGS DRIVE, ALAMO | JUST LISTED!
Offered at $3,195,000 | www.148AlamoSprings.com Beautiful updated custom home. 5700+ sq. ft. with 5 beds and 4.5 baths. Backyard with outdoor kitchen, pool and spa.. Lovely views!
1080 VICTORINE ROAD, LIVERMORE | NEW PRICE!
Offered at $3,350,000 | www.1625Campesino.com Exquisite French Chateau. The ultimate in luxury! 6 Bedrooms, 5.5 baths, with approx. 7500 sq. ft. Fabulous location!
Offered at $2,495,000 | www.1080Victorine.com Views abound on this 20 acre farm with 500 Organic Olive Trees. Offering approx. 4000 sq. ft. 4 bedrooms and 4 baths. Guest house. 3 car garage.
220 PIEDMONT LANE, DANVILLE
16 SKY TERRACE, DANVILLE
Call For Details | www.220PiedmontLane.com El Pintado Loop! This beautiful estate down a private lane offers over 6000 sq. ft. on appx. 2 acres, 6 beds, 5 full & 2 half baths.
Offered at $4,495,000 | www.16SkyTerrace.com Private Gated Estate with Magnificent Views on apx. 1.5 acres. 5 bedrooms, 5 full and 2 half baths, apx. 6600 sq. ft. Guest Cottage and 8 car garage.
COMING SOON 755 DIABLO ROAD, DANVILLE Single story; Approx. 1350 sq. ft. 3 bedrooms, 1.5 baths on .35 Acre Lot.
Celeste Pacelli, QSC,CDPE
Broker Associate | 925.395.1511 celeste@celestepacelli.com www.celestepacelli.com
753 DIABLO ROAD, DANVILLE Brand New Construction! Approx. 3900 sq. ft. 5 bedrooms, 4.5 baths on .35 Acre lot.
See Celeste’s 43 client reviews on Zillow.com.
PAGE 8 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
ALAMO ELEMENTARY
By Stan Hitomi, Principal MUSTANGS - GALLOPING INTO THE FUTURE
You might not think to look to the oldest school in the district for the newest technologies, but you should. The first desktop 3D printer in San Ramon schools appeared at Alamo School in 2010, as part of the San Ramon Valley Education Fund’s Science Initiative. A team of former students and their teacher launched what would eventually become the spearhead of our district’s efforts in this emerging technology. The group was originally organized to form a “think-tank” to develop lessons that would enable students to design and print in 3D. Former Alamo School students Steven Waal (2007) and Grant Hayes (2009), along with Ethan Stobbe and Austin Cohen (MVHS - 2013), Mike Huntsman (retired teacher - MVHS), and Shari Bergum-Hayes (Tech Consultant & parent Alamo School) form one of the top 3D education teams in the Bay Area. This summer the Alamo-based group was invited to lead training in 3D design & printing at Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory. From July 17-20, the Alamo Education Foundation will be using members of the 3D team to run a summer program for students entering grades 4- 6 using 3D and laser technology as part of their ThinkWorks program. Budding designers, architects, and engineers will learn to use basic Computer Aided Design (CAD) programs to create parts to be printed on a 3D Printer and cut-out on a laser. Students will then combine the parts to create a finished project. Anyone interested in registering for the class can go to the Alamo School website at www.aes.srvusd.net and click on the ThinkWorks link.
GETTING READY FOR THE NEW YEAR
Preparations for the new school year are well underway. A major part of these plans fall upon the shoulders of our PTA and EdFund. We are fortunate to have strong leadership for both organizations in 2017-18 with Krista
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
Ciapponi and Kristin Bush returning as PTA Co-Presidents, and Christina Heil and Cristina Armstrong serving as Co-Presidents of the Alamo EdFund. I would like to remind our families that they must complete an annual update of family information (online) and download/complete registration forms prior to coming to our walk-through registration (IMPORTANT: Walk-through registration is only one-day this year. This is a change from past years). A complete explanation of the start-of-the-year process can be found on the Alamo School website at www.aes.srvusd.net. Look for a “quick link” on the homepage to Registration. Here you will find complete information on the annual update, volunteer management system, and walk-through registration. The annual update opens on July 28th, and the walk-through registration is on August 9th. Please plan to join us at registration to see old friends, meet new ones, catch up on summer, and grab dinner at one of our food trucks (5-7PM session only). During registration, follow the “horseshoes” around the MPR to learn about PTA, Ed Fund, and clubs/activities, and to take school photos. New Family Orientation is on the same night as walk through registration. The first day of the new school year is August 14. A BIG THANK YOU to our registration volunteers Erin Adams, Bar Kastershtain Mizne, Nancy Ng, and Jenny Soriano, as well as Gayle Hughey and Janice Hildreth from the Alamo School office staff for organizing this year’s registration!
Advertise in your hometown paper, share a story with the community,or let us know about a local non-profit to profile! Contact us at 925.405.6397 or Editor@YourMonthlyPaper.com.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 9
M O N T E V I S TA HIGH SCHOOL
By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal
I always find the days and weeks after the last day of school to be a bit surreal. All of the energy our students bring to school for 180 days have now faded away, and there is a relative quiet around campus. Sure, there are a few programs still happening, but by and large this is the time for the principal to finish things up for the past school year and get things poised for the next before heading out for a few weeks off. On June 2nd, Monte Vista celebrated its 49th Commencement Ceremony. The weather was a slightly warm 80 degrees as the members of the Class of 2017 made their way into Sam Zackheim Stadium one last time. Monte Vista’s graduates were well represented on stage by Senior Class President, Megan Brear; ASB President, Jackson Winn; and student speakers Courtney Fradelis and Austin Chen with their message of connection and togetherness. Monte Vista’s faculty and staff are very proud of our 2017 graduates and wish them the best as they pursue their goals after high school. Although we celebrated graduation, the year was not quite over for Monte Vista’s Baseball team who matched up with EBAL rival De La Salle for the NCS Championship on Saturday, June 3rd at Saint Mary’s Stadium. After taking a 2-0 lead early and fighting off numerous scoring threats from DLS over the course of an excellent baseball game, Monte Vista found itself down 3-2 in the bottom of the 7th and down to its last out. What DLS didn’t account for was right fielder Jack Murphy, who stepped up to the plate and tied the game with a shot over the right field wall. Unfortunately, the momentum of Murphy’s home run wasn’t enough for the Mustangs to pull out the win as DLS responded in the top of the 8th with another run for a 4-3 win. I am so proud of our team and the way they handled themselves against a really tough opponent. They truly represented the class and toughness we expect of the Monte Vista Community. Monte Vista’s 2016-7 school year has had its challenges, yet it has also been an incredible year. I would like to thank Monte Vista’s students, faculty, parents, and community for making this past school year very special and for setting the stage for another great run next year. It will be nice to step away for a few weeks and clear our heads. I am sure that we will all have even greater focus when we return in August. Make it a safe and enjoyable summer.
Serving the Bay Area with honesty and integrity since 1973
Since 1973
3191-JS Crow Canyon Pl San Ramon Carpets, Hardwood, Laminate & Stone (925) 866-2200 www.MacFloor.com • info@macfloor.com
In Loehmann’s Shopping Center (next to Lucky’s)
2395 Monument Blvd., Suite J Concord (925) 680-4433 (Across from Costco Gas Station, next to Harvest House)
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 10 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
The Cox Team R E A L E S TAT E
SA
L
E
P
E
N
D
IN
G
!
Pat TheCoxTeam.com Pat Cox
925.963.6404 License# 00635222
Kevin Cox 925.989.8028 License# 01257809 Shiloh Hagen 925.997.3285 Licence# 01358726 Wendy Cox-Hagen 925.997.0923
2462 Alamo Country Circle, Alamo DANVILLE 601 SYCAMORE VALLEY RD. W., DANVILLE
Fabulous single-level floorplan in The Trails! 4BR plus office, 3.5BA. Spacious island kitchen, hardwood floors, plantation shutters & more! Gorgeous rear grounds offer lush lawn & garden areas, a spacious patio, large side yard, & breathtaking views of Mt. Diablo & surrounding hills! Offered at $1,810,000
AN ABUNDANCE OF SUMMER PROGRAMS AT OUR COUNTY LIBRARIES
Growing up in Hawaii, I always looked forward to going to my local Aina Haina library each week. My three sisters and I would eagerly check out the maximum number of books allowed. We would excitedly read our own and each other’s books until our next trip to the library. As a parent, I used to love to take my children to story time at the library, and we eagerly anticipated the summer reading program offered each year. Our Contra Costa County Libraries (CCCL) continue to serve as a tremendous educational and cultural resource to our communities. District II has some of the most educational and comprehensive library programs in the County. Once again, this year, libraries will be offering a great program called Discover & Go which provides instant online access to free and low-cost tickets to museums, science centers, zoos, theaters, and other fun local cultural venues. The Discover & Go program is a nationally-recognized partnership between libraries and cultural attractions. A great benefit of the program is that local attractions are able to reach out to people who have not previously visited them. The goal of the partnership is to bridge the gap between literature and hands-on learning and to allow the public to experience exciting cultural opportunities. To reserve tickets or register for an event, visit https://ccclib.discoverandgo.net/. A County library card is required to participate. In addition to Discover & Go, CCCL also welcomes all children, teens, and avid readers to participate in their traditional annual summer reading challenge. This year’s theme is “Build Your Brain.” Its goal is to prevent “brain drain.” This reading challenge will take place all summer through Saturday, August 5th. It is designed to stimulate and challenge the mind through reading and other activities ranging from drawing and origami to mathematics and trivia. Pick up a new Brain Building Challenge each week while supplies last. Assemble the chalNEW YEAR lenge at home or in the library. There is something for all ages. All finishers will receive a book prize and will be entered into a drawing for a • CARPET chance to win additional prizes. For more information, visit the county library site at www.ccclib.org/reads/summerreading/challenges.html. NEW FLOORS! All of our libraries continue to flourish and grow based on the needs of our libraries’ users. There are a multitude of activities and • HARDWOOD programs aimed for people of certain age groups. On Mondays and Tuesdays during the month of July, San Ramon and Danville libraries • CARPET RUGS will provide toddler and preschool story times for young children. The Town of Danville will also offer a Coding Club or kids and JAVA CUSTOM RUGS • HARDWOOD computer programming for teens. At the end of July, there will also be a Family Campfire storytime. Similar to all other libraries in the district, the Walnut Creek libraries will have arts enrichment workshops for children and Textile • RUGS LINOLEUM MakerSpace for adults throughout the summer; individuals will learn techniques for sketching, knitting, crocheting, and cross stitching. TILE These are only some of the highlighted activities for July. While most of these summer activities remain traditional, many are new to foster • LINOLEUM more challenging opportunities for the youth. As our communities in Contra Costa County continue to thrive, so do our libraries. The libraries do so much more than just checking Family Owned Business books out to enthusiastic readers. Their services to our county truly make a difference for individuals, families, and communities. From Since 1989 story times and movie nights to arts and crafts and coding clubs, there is always something exciting going on. Visit the CCCL ‘Programs 3344 Mt. Diablo Blvd. and Events’ page, accessible at www.ccclib.org, for a more comprehensive list of activities for the month. Lafayette, CA My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, 925.284.4440 Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon, and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us or (925) 957-8860. www.LamorindaFloors.com License# 708486 A Special Thanks to summer intern Chloe Chu who contributed to this article.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 11
WINE CELLARS – PART 2
2017
www.srvkiwanis.org/parade
By Monica Chappell
With your wine cellar contents assembled, where should you store your stash? Storing wine is a subject shrouded in mystery – some of it well earned by wine’s fragile nature, but all of it easily boiled down to a few basic principles. You may have a cool, quiet basement corner with all the characteristics you need to store your wines. If not, explore the broad range of cellar equipment, from freestanding units to customized rooms, available from cellar specialists. Either way, the following strategies can keep your wines healthy until the happy moment in which they grace your glass.
2017
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS!
TEMPERATURE
• Keep it consistent. Wine responds to changes in temperature by expanding and contracting in the bottle. When things warm up, the liquid can push against the cork and break the airtight seal, threatening to oxidize and over-age the wine far before its time. Avoid temperature fluctuations to minimize the risk of broken seals and seeping air. • Keep it cool. Wine ages faster in warmer temperatures, so cool rules when it comes to longevity. Most experts agree that 55F is ideal for storing wine, although you can feel confident about a wine’s comfort at 65F and below, especially when the temperature remains constant. If the temperature of your storage area exceeds 70F, your wines are cooking, and you’ll provably want to consider storing professionally or purchasing a temperature-controlled cellar.
Doug and Cindy Gin Richard Frankel, Attorney Safeway Alamo World Travel Onstad’s Insurance Sweeney Kovar Accountants & Advisors Doyle Quane Freeman Family Law Group
First Choice Abbey Carpets Barry & Wynn, Architects Law Offices of Ken Begun
NBC Bay Area KSFO Alamo/Danville Today East Bay Times
HUMIDITY: KEEP YOUR CORKS HAPPY AND DAMP
Lack of humidity dries out corks, causing them to shrink and allow enemy air into the bottle. A humid atmosphere, on the other had, keeps corks plump and firm to maintain a tight seal. Expert recommendations for optimal humidity range from a minimum of 50-70 percent to a maximum of 75-95 percent. If you don’t have a way to measure the humidity of your storage spot, it’s generally better to err on the damp side.
LIGHT: KEEP IT DARK
Ultraviolet light gives wine sunburns, with white wines (especially those in clear bottles) more susceptible to the damaging effect of daylight than reds. The ideal storage area is pitch black, though turning on an eclectic light while you look for a bottle won’t hurt.
MOVEMENT: KEEP IT STILL
You Know the Name of Your Doctor, Dentist & Hairdresser. BUT… Do you know your Realtors’ name? Don’t you think you should?!
It’s time we met! Terri Silva CalBRE #01920415
925.519.0758 terri@terrisilva.com
©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office is Owned by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. Real Estate Licensees affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are Independent Contractor Sales Associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage or NRT LLC. CalBRE License #01908304.
ALAMO RESIDENT
Wine doesn’t like to be jostled, bumped, or vibrated. Like most of us, it prefers to age in peace. Don’t store your wines near the hum of washers, dryers, fans, or traffic and resist the urge to take them out dancing.
POSITION: KEEP THEM ON THEIR SIDES
Wines are stored on their sides to keep their corks wet and seals tight. This is essentially humidity control from the inside of the bottle. Your wine savings account is now open. Can you sense the interest accruing already? Monica Chappell is a wine writer and educator – wineappreciation101@ gmail.com.
EUGENE O’NEILL FESTIVAL TICKETS ON SALE
The 18TH Eugene O’Neill Festival comes alive in Danville in September, and tickets for the two featured theater productions and related Festival events are on sale now. This year’s Festival, which honors the legacy of America’s most noted playwright who resided in Danville between 1937-1944, is presented by the Eugene O’Neill Foundation, Tao House. Audiences will be enchanted by the Festival theme which focuses on “Telling Tales” – a celebration of the drama, music, story-telling, and “blarney” that enchants us all. The Festival gets underway with performances September 1-17 of John Millinton Synge’s The Playboy of the Western World (1907) performed by Role Players Ensemble at the Village Theater (233 Front Street, in downtown Danville). The month-long Festival continues with Eugene O’Neill’s A Touch of the Poet (1942), running September 16-30 in the Old Barn theater at the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site in the Danville hills. “We want the Festival to reflect the experience of the Irish both in Ireland and in America,” says Hayes,the Foundation’s director of artistic programs. Tickets for the two plays are available at www.villagetheatreshows.com, or by calling (925) 314-3400. Two special events are also on tap for the Festival. On Thursday, September 7, beginning at 7PM, “Ballads & Blarney: An Evening of Traditional
See Festival continued on page 24
PAGE 12 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
AMAZING SAFARI GAME DRIVES
By Lisa Kallen, Alamo World Travel
Clambering into our open Land Rover, we came to South Africa to see the famous Big Five—elephants, rhinos, buffalo, lions, and leopards--with our driver, JP, and our tracker, Andres. During the game drive, Andres sits in the raised seat dangling out in front of the vehicle, looking out into the bush and constantly communicating with the driver. Passing herds of impala, nyala, and kudu on both sides of us, we almost immediately came upon a rhino clomping his way to a watering hole where he flopped into the cooling mud. JP maneuvered the Land Rover so that we could get closer. We watched our rhino relax, stretch, get up, and flop down again for about 15 minutes. Moments later they found us a family of elephants munching on shrubbery. When you are in the presence of these great animals, everything feels leisurely with a respectful few yards between us. When at last we left our elephants, a warthog family bounced through the bush alongside of us. Who knew warthogs were so jaunty? While watching the warthogs, we came upon our first family of giraffes. Their tall bodies are hidden in the trees, but when you settle in and really look, you see their long slim legs moving down among the tree trunks, and then you see their spotted heads bobbing improbably above the treetops. Occasionally, a couple of them would emerge into the open, and we could enjoy their whole spotted figures, necks crossing necks as they reached for the juiciest leaves. One morning just after sunrise, we came upon a sleeping pair of rhinos, startling them, which in turn startled us. They begrudgingly got to their feet to check us out, then decided we weren’t very interesting and plopped back down, snuggling together again. We still hadn’t seen a lion or a leopard. They are elusive, shy, and well-camouflaged. However, JP and Andres were determined to track one for us. Now and then, Andres asked JP to stop, and they both would get out and look at footprints, talking softly to each other. Then, we’d set off in a new direction. Finally, we drove right
www.yourmonthlypaper.com off the road. Our beast of a Land Rover crashed over fallen logs, shrubs, and small trees, deeper and deeper into the brush. They had heard the laughter and yips of hyenas nearby, the sounds of a kill stolen from a leopard. Soon, we passed a tree filled with patient vultures and then the victorious hyenas themselves. We barreled deeper into the wilderness. At last Andres spotted him, an adolescent male leopard ambling through the tall grass. JP maneuvered our Land Rover closer to him, and from 10 feet away we watched our leopard discover a warthog hole. He crept down into it until nothing but his long spotted tail was left showing. Luckily for the warthogs, but sadly for our leopard, he came back out empty-jawed, shook the dirt off his face, and walked even closer to us. I could barely breathe! We were awe-hushed and thrilled...and the leopard hardly registered our presence. That kind of special experience is one of the reasons I suggest that you safari on a private game reserve. The trackers and drivers are respectful of the animals and never overwhelm them with the human presence. The reserve only allows two Land Rovers to be at any animal sighting at a time. The animals see the vehicles as just another huge creature, and as long as we stayed seated in the car, they were not intimidated, not fearful...and they felt comfortable enough to approach surprisingly close. We watched as the leopard sauntered curiously between our two Land Rovers, and then he slowly walked off…where he was joined by his mother! They greeted each other, and we followed this little leopard family for a long while as they walked beside each other in the sun, finally disappearing deeper into the bush. Nothing I have ever done has struck me with such awe and reverence as being in the presence of all these animals, enjoying their world in the bush together. If you dream of going on a safari, don't put it off. Call me and let's make that dream come true. Lisa Kallen is a Travel Consultant with Alamo World Travel, specializing in tours, cruises and customized vacations worldwide. Visiting family in La Bella Italia is a favorite vacation along with “soft adventures” just about anywhere in the world. You can reach Lisa at 925-837-8742 ext. 18 or lkallen@alamorld.com. Advertorial
QUICK TRIPS
By Linda Summers Pirkle GOOD EATS IN MENLO PARK
My husband, a military brat, spent most of his childhood on bases all over the world from Berlin to Okinawa, but when in the states, his home was Florida. Twenty years ago we dropped our kids off at the in-laws in Lakeland, Florida, rented a convertible, and headed south to the Key’s. “Let’s stop for some BBQ,” my husband said, and we pulled into a drive thru and ordered ribs. I remember my shock at how delicious a fast food southern BBQ could be. On that hot day, somewhere near South Beach, with an empty to-go container on my lap, fingers sticky with scrumptious spicy sauce, I became a southern BBQ convert. Of course it’s not necessary to go to Florida for great BBQ. Local street fairs are known for unique art, jewelry, and tasty treats, including delicious BBQ. On July 15 and 16, Menlo Summerfest in Menlo Park will be celebrating its 31st year with artists, live music, premium wine, microbrews, and artisan food purveyors including “The Boss of Barbeque,” John Capelo. According to a write-up about him, Capelo was raised in the Rio Grande Valley near the southernmost tip of Texas. His specialties are coffee-rubbed beef brisket, pork spareribs, herb-rubbed smoked and grilled chicken, Louisiana hot links, and hand-pulled pork. Another truck at the upcoming Menlo Summerfest is Little Green Cycle, featuring the Vietnamese banh mi--an airy French baguette filled with pickled carrots, daikon, cucumbers, red onions, and jalapeños. Chef Quynh Nguyen, according to her bio, grew up in Saigon and happily ate her way through the country’s regional cuisines as a professional table tennis player traveling with the national team. On a recent quick trip to Menlo Park, I stopped at Vallombrosa, a lovely Dominican retreat located on the site of the historic 1865 Edward W. Hopkins mansion. As Joan, the receptionist of the day said, “We are on hallowed grounds here.” Nestled under ancient trees, with hidden pathways and shaded benches, the retreat, built in 1964 and designed by the late and noted architect Shigenon Lyama, is indeed a “haven of peace and tranquillity.” Call before you go to make an appointment to view the grounds. Their phone number is (650) 325-9614, and their website is vallombrosa.org. The address is 250 Oak Grove Avenue, Menlo Park. Menlo Summerfest, July 15 and 16, is held on Santa Cruz Avenue between El Camino Real and Johnson Street in Menlo Park. The hours are 10AM - 6PM. Their website is summerfest.miramarevents.com, and the info line is (650) 325-2818. Linda Summers Pirkle, travel consultant and long term Danville resident, has arranged and led tours for the Town of Danville for several years. Inspired by the many wonderful places to visit in the Bay Area, she organizes day trips, either for groups or for friends and family. “What a great place to live, so much to see, so much to do.” To share your “Quick Trips” ideas email Coverthemap@gmail.com. The Boss of Barbeque, John Capelo
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 13
(Now partnered with Stone Valley Dental)
WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
CALL US AT (925) 831-8310
PAGE 14 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 15
ENJOY SUMMER CONCERTS AT LIVORNA PARK
Alamo residents of all ages brought a picnic dinner and enjoyed the tunes of Beatles tribute band the Sun Kings at Livorna Park Friday night, June 23rd, kicking off the summer concert season. Three more Friday night concerts are scheduled: July 7, Houserockers; July 14, Cocktail Monkeys; and July 28, Moonalice. All concerts are held at Livorna Park (at the corner or Miranda and Livorna Roads) and begin at 6:30pm and end at 8:30pm.
Come to my Birthday Party I’M TURNING 100! Sunday, July 30th Celebrate from 1PM-9PM!
• Lunch served at 1PM • Many of my art works and memorabilia on display • Special drawing • Smile – take a photo with me • Fantastic entertainment • A free gift from Beth • Valet parking available Beth Batchelor • Fun for all Sunday, July 30th at Alamo Women’s Club 1401 Danville Boulevard, Alamo
RSVP to Dale Bridges (925) 876-9710 Visit my website at bethbatchelor.com.
“Let’s Do Business!” Serving the area for over 33 years Specializing in Buying, Selling and Relocating Clients LOTS & LAND SALES
Concert goers enjoyed the Sun Kings on June 23 . More concerts are slated this summer. Grab a picnic and enjoy! rd
CINEMA CLASSICS
A special buy in Roseville
Over 29+ acres bordering Riverside Avenue and Vernon Street OFFERED at $4.1 Million (Sellers will carry back a portion)
SHADOW OF A DOUBT By Peggy Horn
This month’s Cinema Classic is a film noir thriller entitled, Shadow of a Doubt (1943), starring Joseph Cotton, Teresa Wright, Macdonald Carey, and Hume Cronyn. Directed by Alfred Hitchcock and written by Thorton Wilder, Sally Bensen, and Alma Reville, the movie was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Story. It was based on a novel, which was in turn based on the true story of a mass-murderer named Earle Leonard Nelson, from the 1920’s called the Merry Widow Murderer. Hello and thank you to my past “Trees-Cars-Real Estate” clients The opening scenes were filmed in New Jersey, but the majority of the film is filmed in Santa Rosa, California. Joseph Cotton, playing the role Dale Bridges of Uncle Charlie, is dodging detectives who suspect his involvement in a murder investigation. He needs a place to hide. For this reason, Uncle United California Brokers | BRE 01176228 Charlie migrates to his sister’s home in Santa Rosa, where she lives with (925) 876-9710 | dale@dalebridges.com her husband and three children. Teresa Wright plays the part of Uncle When do you plan on moving? Charlie’s namesake, quaintly named “Charlie,” the eldest of the three children. Although she is sometimes referred to as a teenager, she is in fact a young woman in this role. Despondent about having nothing exciting to do on the horizon, the family receives the telegram announcing Uncle Charlie’s upcoming visit and is overjoyed. Charlie idolizes her uncle but quickly discovers he is not worthy of her admiration as the mystery develops. The film is in crisp and beautiful black and white and contains the standard cameo appearance by Alfred Hitchcock in a train scene with several other passengers playing cards. Hitchcock holds the winning hand. This was Hitchcock’s favorite of his films and contains gorgeous scenes and time pieces worthy of the era. It creates a very special insight into the average American family, and I enjoy witnessing how much the family members care about one another. This fine film will deliver 108 minutes of solid entertainment.
MUSICAL NOTES
From nearly the same time period as the movie comes the “Grand Canyon Suite” by Ferde Grofe. The Suite was composed between 1929 and 1931 and consists of five movements (Sunrise, The Painted Desert, On The Trail, Sunset, and Cloudburst).
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 16 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
• PC & MAC Computer Services • Monitored Security Packages to Protect Your Systems from Threats
Technology. Simplified.
• Wired & Wireless Network Specialists
Portable CIO Since 2001
PCs/Macs/Servers/Tablets/Smartphones
Commercial | Residential
925-552-7953
helpdesk@pcioit.com w w w. p c i o i t . c o m
TECHNOLOGY MATTERS
ARE YOUR “SMART” DEVICES INFECTED? By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.
Recently we have seen an up-tick in the number of infections in our home electronics by a new wave of threats. You most likely have heard of the “IoT,” or “Internet of Things,” but aren’t sure what it’s all about. The IoT is comprised of the household gadgets and technological “things” we have allowed into our homes. For instance, do you have an internet-connected refrigerator, a Smart TV, a Nest thermostat, a TIVO to record shows, a Ring doorbell, an Arlo or Blink surveillance camera, or perhaps a baby-monitor camera in your child’s room? These are just a few examples of IoT devices. What’s the problem? In a rush to gain market share, many device manufacturers, and I must say not necessarily the ones I have listed above, have taken shortcuts. The problem is that IoT devices are way too easy to hack. When you’re a developer in that incredibly competitive IoT space, everything is about market share. So, maybe you’re willing to compromise on those pesky and time-consuming security protocols to get that new device out into the market faster where you can validate the model and then fix the problems in version 2 of the product. What could go wrong? The problem is that many of these devices are actually little computers using a scaled down derivative of the Linux operating system. And, without adequate security to ensure only the right people can get into them, they sit open and vulnerable to hacking on your network. They are completely vulnerable to being attacked as their code is augmented to do bad things in addition to its native function. All it takes is for a single bad piece of code to be downloaded to your poorly protected PC or Mac. That downloaded code snippet runs and causes your computer to look around on your network for any devices of a certain type, and then quietly infiltrates that home device if you own one. But again, why should you care? Unfortunately, there is no antivirus for IoT devices, and most of the time we can’t even log in to them. All you can do with an infected device is reset it to factory defaults, and protect your computers and network properly in the future. In the last few weeks we have received calls from two different clients who had been alerted by an email from Comcast that they had a web robot, a“BOT”
on their network. Comcast has better things to do than send scary emails to people for no reason, so if you get one of these messages, you should pay attention. Comcast’s sophisticated network-sniffing software detects when network traffic of the wrong type is coming from your home network, and they’ll tell you. We’ve also had reports of people with Smart TV’s getting Ransomware, so this is no longer a problem only limited to PCs and Macs. In our client’s case, their TIVO unit appears to have been infected by the “Mirai BOT,” a piece of malicious code that starts on one’s computer and then goes over their network to infect theirr TIVO unit. Once on the TIVO, it “phones home” once a day, usually in the middle of the night so that nobody notices it, and waits for a command from its “control node” to spring into action. The control node is most likely in another country. The action it’s waiting for is called a DDOS attack, or “Distributed Denial Of Service” attack, which is when many thousands of computing devices are told to aim at and bombard a single website with so much traffic it collapses. It’s a malicious, criminal act that hackers perform when they’re miffed or want to extort the website owner into paying a ransom to make them stop. By harnessing the power of tens of thousands of little untraceable “IoT” devices, the perpetrators have a virtual army of computer BOTs to do their bidding. It’s a clever use of the technology, but we can all agree it’s also incredibly nasty. There are three things you can do to prevent attacks. First, if any network device you plug in has a login, and comes with a default administrative user account and password, change that password to something secure then document it. The bad guys are counting on you leaving those passwords set to the factory default. Second, pay attention to warnings from your Internet Service Provider (such as Comcast), and if they say you have an infection, get outside help. Third, help prevent these attacks by protecting both your network and your computers from the initial infection with layered defenses. It is a great way to secure your computers and your network from malicious activity, and it’s the only way I know of filtering out these attacks as well as Ransomware and many other threats. The worst thing you can do is nothing. I hope you’ll take these precautions to avoid unwitting participation in one of the internet’s growing new problems. For more information about our workstation security packages for home or commercial use, please contact us at 925-552-7953, or email info@pcioit. Advertorial com.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 17
WHAT’S UP?
MT. DIABLO ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY By James Scala
Monthly meeting. On July 25, Dr. Carolyn Porco will pose the question of life elsewhere in our solar system with her talk, “Looking for Life in the Solar System?” Carolyn is a visiting scientist from the Space Science Institute where she was director of operations for the Cassini Imaging Central Laboratory for Operations (CICLOPS) imaging program and Leader of the Cassini Imaging Team. She worked with Carl Sagan on the Voyager I space probe that sent back the image of Earth from deep space. That image became known as the “The Pale Blue Dot.” The New Statesman named Carolyn one of the 50 people who matter today, and Time Magazine placed her among the top 25 people Stop by in Space. our new office in the The talk will be held at the Lindsey Wildlife Alamo Courtyard Museum Auditorium which opens at 6:45PM. The 3195 Danville Blvd #4, Mt. Diablo Astronomical Society (MDAS) meeting Alamo begins at 7:15PM and adjourns at 9:15PM. Tasty refreshments are always plentiful. Mt. Diablo on July 15. Since observing begins at 7:30PM, it’s good to arrive at the lower summit parking lot by about 6:30PM to take time to see the member’s telescopes, the MDAS observatory, and take look at the sun which sets at 8:30PM. Solar Eclipse Talk. A short lecture will introduce the total and partial Solar Eclipse on August 21. The speaker will explain that it will be about 75% in our area and the areas where it will be total. She will also explain how to watch the eclipse without hurting your eyes. Since the observing starts before sunset, you’ll be able to observe the sun through some members telescopes. Jupiter. Jupiter, our solar system’s largest planet, exhibits many unusual colored bands, small clouds, and a great red spot in its active atmosphere. All four of Jupiter’s largest moons will be visible. Saturn’s Rings. Its unusual rings are wide open, creating a sight you will never forget. Once a young person views this spectacular sight they will take interest in astronomy. In addition, you will be able to see five o f S a t u r n ’s Saturn. Photo by James Scala. moons. Deep sky objects. Since the moon rises at midnight, galaxies, nebulas and star clusters will be bright in members’ telescopes. Especially interesting is M-57, the Ring Nebula, so named because it appears like a smoke ring in the telescope. M-31, the Globular Cluster, is sure to get you thinking. Those sights and more will make for interesting discussions on your drive down the mountain. Go to the website http://mdas.net to learn more.
Fine Mexican Dining
COMMUNITY MEETINGS AND EVENTS
743-8997 In Stone Valley Shopping Center
Enjoy Our Patio Dining Monday - Saturday: Lunch and Dinner Sunday: Dinner only We Offer a Full Bar and Lounge 3168 Danville Blvd, Alamo Margaritas are a House Specialty
AIA - ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION - PLEASE VISIT WWW.ALAMOCA.ORG FOR UPCOMING MEETINGS - CREEKSIDE COMMUNITY CHURCH -1350 DANVILLE BLVD. ALAMO MAC (MUNICIPAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE) - FIRST TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH 6PM - ALAMO WOMEN’S CLUB P2B - POLICE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE - FIRST MONDAY OF EACH MONTH, 5PM - MEETS AT SHERIFF SUBSTATION, 150 ALAMO PLAZA P5 - ROUND HILL POLICE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE SECOND WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH, 7PM - MEETS AT ROUND HILL COUNTRY CLUB - LOWER LEVEL MEETING ROOM CERT CLASSES - COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM - VISIT WWW.FIREDEPARTMENT.ORG/COMMUNITY_OUTREACH/ CERT/UPCOMING_CLASSES.ASP
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 18 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
By Roger Smith, Alamo Improvement Association ALAMO FARMER’S MARKET
Signature vendors featured this month include Petalumas’ Achadinha Cheese with award winning cheese, curds, Kefir, and the freshest churned uncultured butter! Dore (Golden) Bakery from Brentwood providies top quality quiche, croissants, and pastries! Crab Fiesta from Mountain House features crab sandwiches, salads, sushi and more, and Gotta Love Kettle Corn, from Brentwood has various flavors to please all ages! Join us at our Alamo Farmer’s Market every Sunday for an outstanding selection of fresh vegetables and fruits including blueberries, cherries, peaches, apricots, nectarines, and pluots which are on their way! Enjoy the live music and the easiest parking in Contra Costa every Sunday from 9AM to 2PM in the Alamo Plaza.
WHY IS JULY EYE SAFETY AWARENESS MONTH??
Ah... summer has finally arrived. This month our skies are often filled with bright displays of color and light, especially during July celebrations. However, we tend to forget that we are lighting potentially dangerous explosive devices. In fact, thousands of people are sent to the emergency room each year due to injuries caused by fireworks, and 40% of the injuries were to children under age15. Between June 18th and July 18th, there are an estimated 7,000 fireworks-related injuries across the nation, and yearly these injuries total 10,500 with 19% being eye injuries. From contusions to corneal lacerations, from children to adults, everyone is at risk of a firework-related eye injury if proper firework safety precautions are not taken. During this year’s summertime celebrations, AIA wants you to protect and preserve your vision by following some important safety tips
NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH
Neighborhood Watch is a Community Action and Problem-Solving Program and one of the most effective means available for resolving issues within your community. Through organized problem-solving activities, your block can remove crime from your neighborhood and address any community issues that concern residents. Meetings can be held by a Crime Prevention Specialist who will share more information about the program. Please contact Christina Lind-Winters (925) 313-2682 or clind001@so.cccounty.us for more information.
EXCHANGE CLUB
The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month at Faz Restaurant located at 600 Hartz Avenue 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 $20 for members and first time guests, and $23 for returning guests. For reservations and information please contact Karen Stepper at 925-998-8865 or coachstepper@yahoo.com.
provided by the American Academy of Ophthalmology. • Never let children play with fireworks of any type. • View fireworks from at least 500 feet away. • Leave the lighting of fireworks to trained professionals. • Respect established barriers to allow pyro-technicians to do their jobs safely. • If you find unexploded fireworks, do not touch them – contact your local fire or police department immediately. While we may think that it is only the big fireworks that cause problems and injury, sparklers can be especially dangerous. Each year many children are burned by these seemingly harmless devices. The tip of the sparkler burns at a temperature of more than 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit, which is hot enough to cause third-degree burns. To learn more, please check these web sources: www.preventblindness.org/ prevent-eye-injuries-fireworks, www.fireworkssafety.org, www.aao.org/eyehealth/tips-prevention/injuries-fireworks-eye-safety, www.cpsc.gov/Global/ Research-and-Statistics/Injury-Statistics/Fuel-Lighters-and-Fireworks/ Fireworks_Report_2014.pdf, www.fireworkssafety.org, www.visionaware. org/blog/visually-impaired-now-what/practice-good-eye-safety-around-fireworks-this-4th-of-july/12, or www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/ news-and-resources-fireworks-safety.aspx.
AIA’S ANNUAL MEMBERSHIP DRIVE
Now in its 62nd year, AIA, a non-profit 501 (c) (3) organization, has the longest history of serving our community and helping shape it into “Alamo - 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 semi-rural character of Alamo” I thank all of our many volunteers, both past and present, for their efforts over the last 61 years in making Alamo into the wonderful community that it is today. Please visit our website at www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to Alamo residents, membership forms, and more.
ALAMO POLICE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE
MAY 2017 REPORTS
Alamo police responded to 36 crimes which included battery, burglary, civil problem, tow, disturbance, felony credit card fraud, forgery, grand theft, mentally ill hospitalization, illegal entry, juvenile runaway, petty theft, found and lost property, security check, service to citizen, suspicious circumstances, and identity theft.
REPORTED INCIDENTS
• Livorna Ave., Residential Burglary: Unknown responsible(s) gained access to the home by smashing a window. Master bedroom was ransacked. K9 was used to do a track, but had negative results. The scene was processed for evidence. Unknown at this time if anything was stolen. The incident is currently under investigation. • Alamo Glen Dr., Residential Burglary: Unknown responsible(s) gained access to the home by smashing a window. The scene was processed for evidence. Unknown at this time if anything was stolen. The incident is currently under investigation.
KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY
The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch every Thursday at noon in Danville at Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon (corner Sycamore). The Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville and many other exciting events. The Club has an interesting and informative weekly program speaker and specializes in fun and entertaining camaraderie. There is no charge for a guest lunch (up to 3x). For more information, call John Lineweaver at (925) 272-8207, email info@srvkiwanis.org, or visit www. srvkiwanis.org.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com Lic# 1100014354; Bay Area Entertainment
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 19
CLIP NOTES
By Jody Morgan
The Herb Society of America’s selection for the 2017 Herb of the Year has a decidedly split personality. Although all parts of the plant are edible, it’s the leaves that are listed in recipes as cilantro and the seeds that are marketed as coriander which are most familiar to cooks around the world. If you need dill weed for a dish, but only have dill seed on hand, you can make the substitution without substantially altering the outcome. Using coriander in place of cilantro, however, is tantamount to using peppercorns Gopher/Mole Removal instead of parsley. The precise origin of coriander is unknown. Archaeological evidence indicates the importance of No Poison the plant to ancient civilizations from Greece to China. The oldest sampling of desiccated coriander seedpods discovered so far was found in Israel at the Pre-Pottery Neolithic B level of the Nahal Hemel Cave, a strata dating back to 8700 to 6000 BC. Sanskrit texts from India written about 7,000 years ago mention the spice. Half a liter of coriander seeds was entombed with Tutankhamun. In King Tut’s day, Egyptians used coriander as a pain and fever medicine. Despite its inefficacy in curing the young monarch’s malady, his contemporaries may have hoped coriander would ease his suffering in the afterlife. Tut died in 1323 BC. The only surviving Greco-Roman cookbook has long been attributed to gourmet (or more accurately gourmand) Marcus Gavius Apicius who lived during the 1st century AD. The surviving manuscript dates from the late 4th or Serving Alamo & Danville Since 1979! early 5th century and may contain only a few of Apicius’s personal favorites. In 2006, Sally Grainger published Cooking Apicius aided by translator Christopher Grocock. The 64 modernized recipes Grainger presents include “Roast lamb with coriander.” Apparently the original De re coquinaria manuscript has many additional entries employing coriander. Apicius himself is more famous for feeding dried figs to pigs to fatten their livers, thus producing what Italian menus list as “fegato.” Mexican cuisine would not be the same today if the Spanish conquiswww.actionpoolrepair.com tadors hadn’t introduced cilantro to the Americas. Hence, the foliage is known by its Spanish name. Although the herb was brought to England by the Romans and cultivated in their New World colonies as early as 1670, something about the scent of the plant seems to have kept it from gaining popularity in their kitchens. Some describe the essence as “musky,” while Contractor Lic# 978033-C53 others find it “soapy.” Once the seeds have ripened, they have an enticing fragrance, but the common and botanical appellations of this parsley cousin come from the unpleasant odor associated with the unripe seeds. The root word appears in texts pre-dating the ancient Greek name, which transliterates as koios, meaning bedbug. A prevalent explanation suggests the scent of coriander is reminiscent of bedbug-infested linen. Although I love making Thai recipes using coriander, I find the number of social media sites calling on fellow cilantro haters to unite amusing. Harold McGee attempts to explain the problem in his New York Times article entitled “Cilantro Haters, It’s Not Your Fault.” Published April 13, 2010. He cites research by Charles J. Wysoki of the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia suggesting genetics determines whether you love or hate cilantro. In case you are among those who are horrified to discover that what they believe they are purchasing as flat Italian parsley is actually cilantro, you are in good culinary company. McGee writes: “In a television interview in 2002, Larry King asked Julia Child which foods she hated. She responded: ‘Cilantro and arugula I don’t like at all. They’re both green herbs. They have kind of a dead taste to me.’” Properly labeled Coriandrum sativum, the 2017 Herb of the Year is also a spice. What’s the distinction? The term “herb” references the leafy, green parts of a plant, often used fresh. Spices are derived from the bark, roots, buds, fruits, flowers parts, or seeds and are almost always dried prior to use. Many Asian cooks consider coriander roots the most desirable part of the plant. Coriander root paste is an all-purpose barbecue rub or marinade inspired by a combination of Thai and Vietnamese cuisines. A cool weather crop, coriander bolts when weather warms. As it begins to bolt – a condition heralded by development of a central stem that may be purple or dark green - it’s time to pull up the plant and enjoy the roots. Grocery stores aren’t apt to offer roots, but stalks can be substituted in recipes if big enough bunches can be found.
925-765-4209
ACTION POOL REPAIR
925.820.3640
Mahjong continued from front page
So feel free to come; anyone can learn how to play!” Mahjong is a tile-based game that originated in China during the Qing Dynasty. It is played between four players on a single table, and it is extremely sociable. “You can’t have mahjong without the sociable aspect,” says Moreno. The length of a game depends on the skill level: a beginner might need to calculate moves a bit longer than more experienced players who typically finish a game in an hour. The game is similar to Rummy and is played with a set of 144 tiles based on Chinese characters and symbols. Each player begins by receiving 13 tiles. Players then draw and discard tiles until they complete a legal hand and build a set using the 14th drawn tile to form 4 groups (meld) and a pair (eye). PML offers two types of Mahjong gatherings: “Learn to Play Riichi Mahjong,” where they focus on teaching beginners how to play, and “PML Riichi League Play,” a competitive league between its more experienced players. Signups for either are taken via Meetup at https://www.meetup.com/ pacificml/. Club members include both males and females of all age ranges – including teens. Players in the Danville chapter come from all over the Bay Area. More than 25 members attend regularly throughout the year, with 8 to 16 people at an average Meetup event. “We meet up every Sunday starting at 2PM in Danville, aside from the weekends when we are hosting Mahjong events at different conventions around the state or West coast,” says Moreno. “PML is a great group for meeting new friends! We often talk to each other outside of the PML meetups, and we even host casual game nights during the week as well. A number of our members have even received job connections through the club. For me personally, outside of PML, I have friends and acquaintances from all over the world that I know through Riichi Mahjong. It’s a very sociable game. The world of Riichi Mahjong is big and is growing ever larger.” For more information, visit www.pacificml.com or https://www.meetup.com/pacificml/.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 20 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
WHY I AM A FINANCIAL PLANNER
By Peter T. Waldron
Summertime is always a time for reflection. As many of my clients are vacationing, my schedule lightens up. In this time of reflection I ponder the “why.” Why I help clients and why I work as hard as I do. I recently I figured this out and I wanted to share my discovery with you. I started in the business 13 years ago right after college in 2004. I was 24 years old. I didn’t have any knowledge of the financial services industry. I was following in my father’s footsteps and didn’t have any real direction or understanding of how to build a financial advisory business. I remember attending an industry conference -- the National Association of Financial and Insurance Advisors. At the conference, I heard a 45-year-old woman speak about her life experience; specifically, she shared that when she was nine years old her dad died. For most people that experience would change the course of their life and most likely create a lot of negativity, a lot of fear, and a lot of stress. The difference between this woman’s story and most people’s stories was her father had done all the planning. He bought enough life insurance, had set up the appropriate wills and trusts, had done everything to protect his family in the event of a premature death. Now hearing this woman speak at age 45, you would think that her father’s death would have been a distant memory, but to her it wasn’t. Her father’s death allowed her to attend college, pay for her wedding,
and buy her first home. Moreover, her mom never had to worry about money. She never had to make decisions regarding love with money in mind. With all of her financial decisions she had the flexibility because of the assets that her husband had left behind. The mother would never have to worry about someone else providing for her. The death of a husband or a father is not something you’d ever want but planning in the event it does happen, can mean the world to your loved ones. As I reflect on why I do what I do, I use this story as compass. It is at the core of my every morning, it is my driving force. I know that I can effect change in so many areas of people’s financial life. Not just life insurance, but making appropriate and effective investment decisions, helping people retire and stay retired, helping people transfer their wealth from one generation to the next, and reducing the amount of unnecessary taxes. I’ve learned a lot in the 13 years of business and I know that this one story will continue to propel me to help individuals, families, and business owners to accumulate, protect, distribute, and transfer their wealth in the most tax efficient manner as possible. I hope you have a great summer and thank you for reading my article. If you would like to have your financial plan properly diagnosed, please call our office at (925) 786-7686 to set up your complimentary visit. We are located at 3201 Danville Blvd. Ste 190, Alamo. Peter T. Waldron: California Insurance License #0E47827. Peter T. Waldron is a reg-
istered representative and investment advisor representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a broker-dealer (member SIPC) and registered investment advisor, offering insurance through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc. and other fine companies. This information should not be construed as legal or tax advice. You may want to consult a tax advisor regarding this information as it relates to your personal circumstances. CRN1826968-062217 Advertorial
Leach continued from front page
with every resident of the Bay Area by the violent shaking of his Oakland residence.“The building danced a lively jig, jumping up and down a good part of a foot at every jump, at the same time swaying this way and that; the walls and ceiling were twisting and squirming, as if wrestling to tear themselves asunder or one to throw the other down.” Once he regained his composure, Frank headed for the ferry to San Francisco. Repeatedly told no passengers were permitted to embark for San Francisco, he persisted until he found the division superintendent who acknowledged the necessity for Leach to travel across the Bay. The earthquake ruptured gas lines and water mains and upended stoves, causing numerous fires that began joining forces as Leach tried to circumnavigate them on his way to the mint. Fifty loyal employees were already on hand. Due to Leach’s foresight in having a water supply with hydrants and fire hoses connected to an artesian well in the courtyard of the structure known colloquially as the “Granite Lady,” the crew was able to extinguish fires as they erupted. The work was arduous. “The glass in our windows, exposed to this great heat, did not crack and break, but melted down like butter; the sandstone and granite, of which the building was constructed, began to flake off with explosive noises like the firing of artillery.” Refugees camped outside the mint once the raging blaze was subdued. The building offered one of the only supplies of fresh water in the city. With every bank in San Francisco demolished, the need for cash to stabilize the economy and fund the recovery was desperate. Immediately obtaining the Secretary of the Treasury’s support, Leach turned the mint into a central bank for the city, accepting free telegraphic transfers of funds to private individuals as well as banks. Over $40,000,000 was transferred over the following two weeks in amounts ranging from $50 to $1,000,000. President Theodore Roosevelt appointed Leach Director of the United States Mint in 1907. Frank held the position until August 1909 when he seized the opportunity to move back to California from Washington, DC to serve as President of the People’s Water Company of Oakland. He retired in 1911 only to be called back to work from 1912 to 1913 as Superintendent of the San Francisco Mint. His beloved wife Mary died shortly before his final retirement. Free at last, Leach penned pieces about the California creatures and their habitat that he had enjoyed studying all his life. In 1920, the year before Mount Diablo State Park was originally chartered, a collection of his articles was published by the Oakland Tribune as “Wild Life in California: Some of Its Birds, Animals and Plants.” Many stories entail events at the Diablo Country Club and Mount Diablo. In the “Diablo Canyon” chapter he writes of a spring jaunt. “I will confess it was more the thought of the wild flowers, for the variableness and beauty of which Mt. Diablo is celebrated, that was uppermost in my mind when I started out on the trip. I chose the old road, which has been closed to travel for several years, as affording an easy grade up the wooded canyon, to the left of the Toll House, as well as being less frequented by the public, and where the automobilists had not ravished the flowering shrubs by the roadsides, robbing them of their beauty in flowers and symmetry, or depopulated the bird life with repeated shotgun.” “Diablo Canyon” no longer exists on maps, but Leach writes of it as “the great gash in the southwestern side of Mt. Diablo. Therein gather the waters forming the creek that once flowed through the park grounds at the foot of the mountain.” The creek was dammed to form a lake utilized by Diablo Country Club members for water sports until the 1960s. Currently the lake is privately owned. Those who have battled gophers will appreciate Leach’s commentary on gopher control in the early days. In a two-year period, the greens keeper recorded shooting 3,000. During the summer of 1919, Leach observed a large gopher snake that took advantage of the gophers’ habitual appearance above ground at 10am and 4pm to feast upon them. One Diablo resident found that gophers are not afraid of humans. “When the man got near enough to kick the beast, he was fairly startled, for before he could use his foot it took the initiative in the attack and in a most vicious manner jumped at him.” Leach enjoyed playing golf with his four sons and grandson until his death June 19, 1929 at age 82. Diablo’s Green Book of Golf reported: “Frank A. Leach, the famous California naturalist, keeps a strict watch on the movements of hundreds of rare birds that make for Diablo at certain periods of the year. Mr. Leach, 80 odd years young, never fails to play at least nine holes of golf a day. It is no unusual occurrence for three generations of the Leach Diablo Lake was a favorite spot for family water sports until the 1960s (photos family to compete and win prizes in the same tournament.” courtesy of David Mackesey).
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 21
ESTATE PLANNING NO-NO’S!
By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.
This article highlights a number of the more critical estate planning mistakes people make and some positive steps that can be taken to avoid them. 1. Failing to Plan. -You know the old saying: “If you fail to plan, you’re planning to fail.” Every adult should establish a Durable Power of Attorney, Advance Health Care Directive and a Will, and many people also benefit greatly by having a Revocable Living Trust. Everyone (except those who are immortal and exempt from incapacity!) should have a plan in place for themselves and their loved ones. 2. Not Obtaining Proper Legal Advice. Too often, people have big problems administering a trust (or estate) because the decedent whose trust they are administering failed to obtain sound legal advice before he or she executed documents. “Canned” documents purchased online or prepared by an inexperienced attorney, a paralegal, or a document preparation service are, in and of themselves, of little value. Real value arises when one receives excellent legal advice about the structure, alternative provisions and essential terms of these documents. Without expert legal advice, unlawful, ineffective, or impractical documents are often produced. Resulting fees and costs are typically far more than (sometimes many multiples of) the modest investment that would have been required to obtain thoughtful, professional advice to begin with. 3. Neglecting to Fully Fund Your Living Trust. It is not uncommon for people to establish a Living Trust but not adequately “fund” it (i.e. not formally transfer title of assets into the trust). Failing to properly re-title substantially all of your assets into your Trust leaves your estate vulnerable to an unnecessary probate. Fortunately, it’s easy to transfer assets into your trust with appropriate instructions, advice, and forms. 4. Not Having Current Beneficiary Designations on File for Life Insurance and Retirement Plans. The rules about who receives these kinds of assets on death are commonly misunderstood. Payout of retirement plans (e.g. IRAs, 401Ks, and life insurance policies) is governed by beneficiary designation. On the death of the participant/owner, distribution is made to the living beneficiary(ies) designated and on file with the financial custodian or insurance company. The beneficiary designation trumps whatever your Will or Living Trust might provide. So, it is imperative that you have a beneficiary designated and on file for each such account/policy. You should also have at least one contingent beneficiary on file – in case the primary designee(s) predeceases you. Frequently, people have no beneficiary designated or a designation inconsistent with their current wishes. Sometimes, no contingent beneficiary is designated. Any of these problems can lead to unintended consequences. For example, I have a client (facts changed a bit) whose ex-wife died. After she died, he learned that he was the beneficiary designated on her $3 million life insurance policy. She had never submitted a new beneficiary form to the life insurance company after they divorced 10 years earlier. She did not likely want her ex-husband to receive the $3 million death benefit, but he did receive it because he was still the designated beneficiary at the time of her death. 5. Nominating Inappropriate Candidates for Key Positions. It’s hard to overstate the importance of this. Whether naming a successor trustee in your Living Trust, an executor or guardian in your Will or an agent under your Power of Attorney or Advance Health Care Directive, it’s easy to emotionally or irrationally designate someone who is not suitable or at least not optimal. These decisions should be explored carefully with legal counsel. Choosing the wrong people can wreak havoc with the smooth management of affairs and succession to loved ones. * Estate Planning * Trust Administration & Probate * Real Estate * Business Please contact the author to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. Mr. Silverman is an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group which is located at 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 125, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com. This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors. Advertorial
EAST BAY’S BEST SOLAR INSTALLER Since 1998, we’ve helped over 3,000 home and business owners save with solar.
CALL NOW FOR A FREE ENERGY ANALYSIS
S OL A R T ECHNOL OGIE S .COM (925) 939 - 8 300
2017 Alamo Women’s Club Scholarship Recipients for area high school students majoring in the arts, plus Diablo Valley College single women re-entering college, and Youth Homes. Each recipient received between $1,000-$2,000. Standing L/R - Katie Tang, Ryan Noline, Sophia Colello, Gabriel Vasquez, Correen O’Rourke. Kneeling L/R - Sarah Swerdlow, Megan O’Grady, and Paige Godwin.
MEALS ON WHEELS
Seniors in your community need your support! Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services has been supporting seniors since 1968. Two of the programs, Meals on Wheels and Friendly Visitors, rely on the support of volunteers. We need your help now more than ever. Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers deliver meals to local homebound seniors through regular two hour shifts once per week or as substitute drivers. Friendly Visitors volunteers provide weekly one-hour companionship visits to isolated seniors. To volunteer for either program, please call (925)937-8311.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 22 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
PROTECT YOUR IDENTITY AND SHRED-IT (FOR CANCER)
By Jewel Johl, MD
We all understand the importance of saving important records like tax returns, bank statements, credit card statements, medical records, warranty cards, receipts, service records, etc. But how long do we need to save these records, and which need to be shredded? The Department of Consumer Protection suggests saving every tax-related document (including relevant receipts and canceled checks) for seven years after you file the return. Aside from that, opinions differ; here are some reasonable guidelines: • Keep pay stubs and canceled personal checks for one year, then shred those that you won’t need for tax, warranty, or insurance purposes. • Shred all credit card, debit card, and ATM receipts after you have checked the transactions against your monthly statements; store those you are saving for tax purposes. • Shred all statements from your health plan and anything that bears your signature, credit account number, phone or cell phone number, social security number, or medical or legal information. • Keep store receipts until you are sure you won’t need to return or exchange the item. • Keep warranty cards, instructions, and receipts for high-ticket items for as long as you own the item. • Keep invoices for any permanent home improvements until you sell your house. • Store car maintenance records until you sell the car, at which time you should give them to the new owner. Keep the purchase order and title for as long as you own the vehicle. • Keep records of the purchase and sale of mutual funds and stocks until you’ve reported the transactions to the IRS, and then keep the records with your other tax-related documents. • If you have additional questions, consult a qualified tax adviser for more info. On July 15th Diablo Valley Oncology will be hosting our annual Document Shredding Fundraiser in the parking lot of our cancer center. Bring old tax returns, bills, business records, bank statements, and other documents containing personal information to our event (Please no x-rays or film). Make a charitable donation to Cancer Support Community, and all of your documents will be shredded on site by a certified shredding company from 1-3pm, 400 Taylor Blvd, Pleasant Hill. For questions call 925-677-5041. Dr. Johl is a Board Certified Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group and serves on the Board of Directors for the Cancer Support Community. To learn more about Dr. Johl and Diablo Valley Oncology, visit www.dvohmg.com. Advertorial
The “Good Old Days” are now!
Rates are better than 50-60 years ago (see proof above)
The Alison Company Nationwide Financing on Commercial Property Douglas Scott DRE#00859191 | Kevin Corstorphine DRE#01944908
805.845.5200
Dscott@alisonmortgage.com | Kevin@alisonmortgage.com
www.alisonmortgage.com
LIPS
By Dr. Jerome Potozkin
“Quack, Quack!” That is the sound you might think of when you think of lip enhancement with injectable fillers. A quick stroll around town might call your attention to strange looking, over-inflated lips. That is not the way it is supposed to be. Most people that I see curious about lip augmentation either fear that they will look like a duck or have lips similar to Angelina Jolie. If you have any interest in natural looking, fuller lips, then read on. Adding some volume to your lip is one the simplest ways to create a more youthful, natural-appearing lip. Part of the normal aging process is loss of volume in our face and lips. If you look at young people, you might notice that they have rounder, fuller faces and full lips. As we age, we lose some of that volume. Dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons have recognized for years that we can make people look younger by replenishing volume, and for many people this helps avoid surgery. One of the more popular areas to fill is the lip. Thinning of the lips makes us appear old and angry. The reason you notice what I call “crazy lips” or “duck lips” is because of failure of proper technique. There are many inexperienced individuals providing this treatment. Lips are naturally fuller in the central portion and taper at the corners. A duck like lip can be obtained when too much filler is injected at the sides of the lip. Another common error is to fill the upper lip too large in proportion to the lower lip. The goal of look augmentation is to enhance what you have and give a natural yet fuller appearance. New and improved fillers have become available to create a natural look. Some fillers are FDA approved for lips. In addition, physicians have been using fillers for years to fill lips as an “off label” use. Physicians commonly use drugs and devices such as injectable fillers “off label.” If a physician thinks a patient will benefit from a drug or device outside of the narrow FDA approval, it is common practice to do so. However, manufacturers can only promote and advertise based upon the narrow FDA approval. Most fillers used for lips are comprised of hyaluronic acid. This substance is naturally found in the body. The most common side effect is bruising, so I don’t recommend filling in close proximity to a major work or social event. When I inject lips, I fully numb the lips so that there is no pain during the treatment. There can be initial swelling for a couple of days. After the injections, most people will have months of fuller, natural looking and feeling lips. If you have interest in fuller more natural looking lips, call my office today for a complimentary lip augmentation consultation (offer expires 07/31/17). Dr. Potozkin is a board certified dermatologist who has been serving the local community since 1993. His fully accredited dermatological and laser facility is located at 600 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Suite 102 in Danville. He is accepting new patients. Please call (925) 838-4900 Advertorial or visit www.Potozkin.com for more information.
TM TM TM
DONATE DONATE DONATE YOUR YOUR YOUR CAR! CAR! CAR!
Cars • Boats Boats •• Real RealEstate Estate Cars•• Trucks Trucks • • Vans Vans • Live Operators on hand 7 days a week Cars • Live Trucks • Vans • Boats Operators on hand 7 days•aReal week Estate deduction transfer documents handled Tax deduction • • All All transfer documents handled LiveTax Operators on hand 7 days a week Free pick-up • Running or not in most cases Free pick-up • Running or not in most cases
Tax deduction • All transfer documents handled 888-694-5250 Free pick-up888-694-5250 • Running or not in most cases www.thefallenheroes.org www.thefallenheroes.org
888-694-5250
www.thefallenheroes.org
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST
A NUTRITION PL AN FOR COLLEGE STUDENTS By Linda Michaelis RD, MS
It has been exciting to see many students that finally want to take responsibility for their nutrition and decide to lose excess weight once and for all for a new image at college. They know mom and dad will not be around to provide meals, and they will have to make all their own food choices at the dorm cafeteria, other spots on campus, or their own apartment. Many students who come to see me do not realize what balanced meals and healthy snacks truly are. They do not know how to read the food label and often just look at calories. They don’t understand that there is so much more to the food label -- such as looking at the more important nutritional facts like protein, fiber, and sugar amounts. Often a student will come back from new student orientation and show me their college website where all of the eating facilities and menus are listed. Some students come to my office with photos of the dining hall offerings when they visited the campus. My job is to help them evaluate all that is available and show them what would be great prospective meal plans based on their class schedule. I am glad to note that there often is a Trader’s Joe’s or other market close to campus. In my counseling sessions I make it a point to include a visit to the market of their choice. I show the student great meals and snack choices available from these places for times that dining halls are closed. On a recent visit, my client Sam was excited to see that she could buy low fat macaroni and cheese as long as she used it as a topping on broccoli. Broccoli is available in a convenient steam-in-the-bag microwave option that is great for students. We also looked at buying other easily microwaved items that can be cooked in her room like baked potatoes and sweet potatoes. Sam liked the idea of topping the potatoes with Fage non-fat yogurt which tastes like sour cream and is very tasty with salsa mixed in. Instant oatmeal packets with a side of yogurt and fruit are also easily available and provide a quick meal during study times. I also pointed out hearty and high in protein and fiber soups such as Amy’s Lentil and Veggie soup, Black Bean soup, or even Minestrone soup. We learned how to look at soups and to be aware of how many servings there are in a can. We discussed how to multiply the protein and fiber by how many servings are listed on the food label to get accurate information. Lastly, we looked at buying baby carrots or hearts of celery along with almond butter and using this as a great portable snack. After our store visit, Sam was relieved that she could now manage her nutrition when left to buy her own foods at college. Many kids use protein shakes and bars and think that it is a meal to eat after they workout. Yes, it is good to repair your muscles, but I find with these shakes and bars the students end up being hungry soon after eating them. My suggestion is that it is better to eat a balanced high protein and fiber meal such as an omelet with veggies and meat or a baked potato topped with chili instead of these shakes and bars. I make myself available to students via texting, which is how they like to communicate. Often I receive photos of their meals at restaurants or even pictures of the nutrition label of food packages asking my opinion on whether I recommend a certain food or not and I’m happy to help guide them. If you would like me to help you improve your nutrition knowledge and feel the best you can feel when entering college, please start keeping a food diary before you make an appointment. I promise you that this will be an experience that will change your young life. The good news is that many of my nutritional counseling sessions with students are covered by health insurance. Insurance companies cover nutritional counseling. I am contracted with Aetna, ABMG, Blue Cross Blue Shield, Health Net, Sutter, and others. Please visit LindaRD.com for more information about your nutritional concerns. Call me at (925) 855-0150 or e-mail me at lifeweight1@yahoo.com. Advertorial
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 23
POPLAR SPECTACLES OPTOMETRY LOCATED IN THE SAFEWAY PLAZA
Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exams Cataract Evaluation, Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma Evaluations
Contact Lens Exams Daily, bi-weekly, monthly, colored
Prescription Glasses and Sunglasses In many cases, we are able to make your glasses in our office with our On-Site Lab
Adult & pediatric patients welcomed
OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY
Most vision insurance plans accepted
Monday -Thursday: 9am-6pm Friday - Saturday: 9am-4pm
(925) 202-2846 We invite you into our conveniently located office next to Peet’s Coffee & Katrina Rozelle
To learn more about our office visit WWW.POPLARSPECS.COM
CARING HANDS
REACHING OUT TO SENIORS ONE AT A TIME
Life at any age involves challenges, but these intensify as we age. The first concern may be that it becomes too difficult to drive to the doctor, the grocery, or to just get a haircut. Support systems change, neighbors and friends may not help as expected, and loneliness may put a damper on daily routine. Caring Hands volunteers offer friendship which makes an extraordinary difference in the quality of life for many seniors. Caring Hands Volunteer Caregivers Program, a collaborative community outreach program between John Muir Health, social service agencies, congregations of various faiths and the communityat-large, creates finely-tuned one-on-one matches. The Caring Hands Program is dedicated to helping aging adults in Contra Costa County remain independent as long as safely possible. Isolation and loneliness shorten lives and may make health problems worse. If making time to volunteer is on your to-do list, consider joining Caring Hands as a caregiver or even as an occasional driver. Enriching matches are created; loving friendships and deep relationships are formed. Care receivers treasure a friendly visit, a walk in the park or other social outing. Reading mail, letter writing, or providing respite care to give a break to a family member are thoughtful services which can make a big difference to a frail or isolated senior. Since so many older adults need transportation to doctor’s appointments or stores, the best volunteer for Caring Hands is someone who is available once a week for 1-3 hours on a weekday and who can provide transportation. Volunteers receive ongoing education, support, and recognition of their efforts. Perhaps you can be that friend who gives a waiting senior hope and help. For a volunteer application or for more information about Caring Hands, please contact Stacy Appel, Volunteer Coordinator, at (925) 952-2999.
Do you have a story idea or local news to share? Call us at 925.405.6397 or email Editor@YourMonthlyPaper.com.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 24 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
WHY WOULD A BABY NEED TO SEE A CHIROPRACTOR?
By Dr. Kristin Moore, DC
I get these questions almost every day in the office. “Why would a baby need to see a chiropractor? Aren’t chiropractors only for people with major spinal injuries?” Believe it or not, infants and babies are great candidates for chiropractic care. Now lets be clear, I’m not talking about giving an infant a major audible chiropractic adjustment. Adjustments for babies and infants require the same amount of pressure as checking to see if an avocado is ripe. It is INCREDIBLY gentle! As a new mom myself of a four-month-old baby boy, I understand how overwhelming it can be to see your perfect bundle of joy in pain. Whether it be abdominal and gas pains, pain in the jaw while nursing, or pain in the neck while turning their head, nothing is worse than feeling helpless when it comes to your child.
HOW CAN CHIROPRACTIC CARE HELP MY BABY?
Lic# 1100014354; Bay Area Entertainment
Festival continued from page 11
Irish Music & Song” takes place at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley (205 Railroad Avenue, Danville). The lively evening – complete with beer and pretzels – features Donagh McKeown and guests from the Irish Cultural Center in San Francisco. Reservations for this event can be made now at www.villagetheatreshows.com, or by calling (925) 314-3400. On Saturday, September 10, beginning at 9AM, the O’Neill Foundation sponsors the second annual“Hike to Tao House,” – a moderate hike from the O’Neill Commemorative across from the Danville Library to Tao House. Advance registration is required for participants. E-mail your interest to taohouse.eonf@gmail.com. Information on all O’Neill Festival events and programs can be found on the Eugene O’Neil Foundation’s website www.eugeneoneill.org.
Our spine is made up of vertebrae that enclose our spinal cord. At each vertebral level throughout the spine, a nerve exits and transmits information from the brain to the intended body part, muscle, organ, or gland. If one or more vertebrae are misaligned, it can put pressure either on the spinal cord or on the nerves that exit at that spinal level. This can create pain and decreased muscle function to whichever body region is being affected by the diminished nerve.
HOW WOULD MY BABY’S VERTEBRAE BECOME MISALIGNED?
1. In utero: Some misalignments are created before a baby is even born. Depending on how the baby sits inside the uterus, the cramped quarters can cause the baby to develop a misalignment while he or she is still developing. 2. Trauma of labor: Giving birth is not only traumatic for mom, but it is also incredibly rigorous for baby as well. If you think about it, their head jams into his/her mom’s pelvis for somewhere between eight hours and 48 hours. This is an incredible amount of pressure to place on the delicate structure of a infant’s head and neck. Often times this can result in a misalignment of the vertebrae of the upper spine. 3. Growth and development: As a baby develops, they learn new behaviors such as holding their head up, sitting, rolling over, crawling, and walking. With each new development comes a new demand on the body and its muscles. If the muscles become strained, they can pull the vertebrae out of alignment.
WHAT CONDITIONS CAN YOU HELP WITH? • Birth traumas • Colic • Sleep issues
• Management of tongue and lip ties • Torticollis • Constipation
WHAT ARE THE SIGNS/SYMPTOMS THAT I SHOULD LOOK FOR?
GROUP HELPS PEOPLE COPE WITH DEATH OF PETS
When you lose your pet, you often feel like a part of you is lost. The death of your beloved animal companion is one of the most difficult losses you may ever feel. This loss is sometimes made more painful by society’s seeming lack of support for pet grief. Hospice of the East Bay (HoEB) and the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation is offering a support group where participants can share memories and feelings and talk to others who truly understand and care. Meetings will be held the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7PM at the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. For further information and/or to register, please call Bereavement Services at HoEB (925) 887-5681. HoEB Bereavement Services are provided free of charge to all community members in need. However, donations are greatly appreciated.
To advertise call 925.405.6397
• • • • • • • •
Trouble turning their head to one or both sides Appearance of the head not sitting straight on his/her body Patches or areas of redness on the spine Trouble latching during feedings Difficulty feeding on one side but not the other Clicking noises while nursing Gas pains or digestive upset Trouble falling asleep or staying asleep
HOW DO I LEARN MORE?
It is not a guarantee that I can help with all of the above signs and symptoms. However, each of them can be clues that there could be misalignments within your baby that need to be corrected. The best way to know if your baby could be helped through chiropractic is to contact my office and request a complimentary consultation. I will sit down with you and your baby, and we can discuss their symptoms. If I find that the cause of their discomfort is due to a spinal misalignment, we can talk about treatment options including spinal re-alignment and at-home exercises and care. I look forward to helping you in this journey! To learn more, please visit www.alignhealingcenter.com. To schedule your complimentary consultation, please call our office at (925) 362-8283 or send me an email at drkristinmooredc@gmail.com. My office is located Advertorial at 125-G Railroad Ave., Danville.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 25
Shanny A. Baughman MD Alamo Oaks Dermatology
Love Your Skin!
(925) 362-0992 | www.alamooaksderm.com 3189 Danville Blvd, Suite 130, Alamo
AVOID SUNBURN! SLAP on a broad brimmed hat. WEAR broad spectrum sunscreen, SPF 30-50. REAPPLY every 2 hours and more often if swimming or sweating.
Accepting New Patients
LISTEN TO YOUR HEART
By Michelle Brown
New ideas forever abound in the fitness world. From the Nordic Track of the 80’s, to the Gazelle of the 90’s, to the Shake Weight of today and beyond, there's always something to spark our interest. Though it is nothing new, the craze of the moment is High Intensity Interval Training. Also known as HIIT, these workouts have gained popularity for their high caloric burn, intense sweat production, and endorphin rush. Another great benefit is you can do HIIT with little or no equipment. HIIT sessions are short, so you also save precious time while maintaining benefits of longer workouts. A good warm up and cool down are essential for many reasons, including heart health. The heart needs to acclimate to load, so always make sure to enter HIIT workouts wisely. Moreover, proper understanding of how the heart recovers from a workout is an essential part of any well-planned fitness program. Your Heart Rate Recovery (HRR) is a simple means of tracking your heart health. Poor HRR is associated with higher cardiovascular risk and can be a factor in exercise induced heart attacks. Always talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program, especially one that includes high intensity intervals. Medications can affect your heart rate. If you aren't sure how your medications influence it, ask your doctor. If you are ready and clear to participate in HIIT, calculate your HRR so that you can track your progress and move in a way that benefits your body and your heart. HRR tells us how well our heart is recovering from the stress of exercise. Find your Target Heart Rate (THR) on the American Heart Association chart below, and then use it to calculate your HRR. Age Target HR Zone 50-85% Avg Max. Heart Rate, 100% 20 years 100-170 beats per minute 200 beats per minute 30 years 95-162 beats per minute 190 beats per minute 35 years 93-157 beats per minute 185 beats per minute 40 years 90-153 beats per minute 180 beats per minute 45 years 88-149 beats per minute 175 beats per minute
Local and Convenient
50 years 85-145 beats per minute 170 beats per minute 55 years 83-140 beats per minute 165 beats per minute 60 years 80-136 beats per minute 160 beats per minute 65 years 78-132 beats per minute 155 beats per minute 70 years 75-128 beats per minute 150 beats per minute *Target heart rates are based on 60%–80% of estimated maximum heart rates (220 minus age). To calculate HRR: Warm up with dynamic movement and light cardio. A leisurely jog or slow bike ride for 10 minutes will do. Have a stopwatch on hand. Work toward your THR during your workout, tracking it with a heart rate monitor or by stopping to take your pulse occasionally. Count the beats for 6 seconds, then multiply that number by 10. If you have reached your THR, rest and record the number. Exactly 2 minutes later, take your pulse again for 6 seconds and multiply by 10. Subtract your 2-minute heart rate from your THR to calculate your HRR. If your number is: Less than 22: Your biological age is slightly older than your calendar age. 22-52: Your biological age is about the same as your calendar age. 53-58: Your biological age is slightly younger than your calendar age. 59-65: Your biological age is moderately younger than your calendar age. 66 or more: Your biological age is a lot younger than your calendar age. Whether it be in the form of HIIT or another fitness modality, exercise offers a multitude of benefits, and heart health is at the top of the list. Listen to your heart. What is it telling you? If it needs more attention in the form of regular exercise, talk to your doctor and make a plan toward better heart health! Michelle Brown is an ACE Certified Medical Exercise Specialist, ACE Subject Matter Expert, ACE Certified Personal Trainer, Spartan SGX Coach, Martial Arts and Self Defense Expert, TRX Level 2 Certified Trainer, Certified Trigger Point Rehabilitation Therapist, SCW Yoga Level 2 Instructor, and has been a competitive Vegan Athlete since 1999. Michelle has been helping her clients surpass their goals for nearly 20 years. Her company Gumsaba offers outdoor fitness programs, corporate group fitness, personal, small group and sport specific training. Join Gumsaba for a FREE CLASS at one of our amazing outdoor locations. Visit gumsaba.com and click get started to redeem your free class with promo code HEARTSMART www. gumsaba.com. Advertorial
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 26 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
THE EYE OPENER
10 YEARS! By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry
As of July, I will be celebrating 10 years of ownership of Alamo Optometry. It has been an interesting and exciting journey. When I took over, I didn’t know quite what to expect because I had not worked in the office prior to owning it. In addition, it was the first office I had owned and operated myself; all of my prior work experience was being an employee. To say things were rocky for the first few years would be a massive understatement. The combination of the dreadful economy along with the learning curve of running a business made for some very lean times. However, my staff and myself kept our heads down and tried to improve our situation. I decided to work on and improve what the office and staff could control: providing excellent customer service and making the office as patient-centric as was possible. I knew this is how I wanted to practice, and I believed that was what the community wanted. I based my philosophy that every patient mattered and that our patients felt as though they were not just a number or felt that we were running a mill. To that point, I still help answer the phones, do the occasional eyeglass repair and adjustment, place orders, bill insurance, and assist wherever help is needed. I believe this type of time investment in ones business shows that you truly care about the patients and patient care. Knowing patients by name, their family members, etc. goes a long way in the community as we can share stories about our kids and life experiences
CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY
The following workshops are held at the Cancer Support Community, located at 3276 McNutt Ave. in Walnut Creek. Classes are held free of charge. For more information or to reserve a place in a workshop, please call (925) 933-0107. Estate Planning Basics – Wednesday, July 12, 6-8PM ~ With Jonathan Thompson, JD, Attorney. Learn the components of a good estate plan: what should be updated, things to look for, beneficiary reviews, durable power of attorney, advanced health care directives, HIPPA issues, and more. For cancer patients and caregivers. Cannabis & Cancer - Tuesday, July 18, 6-8PM ~With Eloise Thiesen, RN, MSN, NP. Learn how cannabis can assist in relieving pain, easing anxiety, improving quality of sleep, and preventing drastic weight loss, nausea, and vomiting in patients diagnosed with cancer who are undergoing chemotherapy and/or radiation. Eloise is a nurse practitioner with extensive experience in oncology. For cancer patients and caregivers. Cancer & Body Acceptance - Saturday, August 5, 2-4PM ~ With Julie Levin, LMFT. Accepting your body during and after cancer can be difficult. You may feel betrayed, embarrassed, angry, sad, or sick of being sick. The five stages of grief (denial, anger, bargaining, depression, and acceptance) will be used as a structure to explore your evolving feelings about your body. Exercises and techniques will be taught to help you feel kindness, care, and gentleness toward your body. For cancer patients and survivors.
HOSPICE VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Hospice of the East Bay is seeking volunteers to assist Hospice patients and their caregivers. Opportunities include: • Licensed Hair Stylists to offer hair cuts and styling • Certified Massage Therapists to provide massage therapy • Administrative Support Volunteers to assist in the Pleasant Hill office • Thrift Shoppe Volunteers to work in one of the organization’s five stores which are located in Alamo, Concord, Martinez, Danville, and Walnut Creek. • Bereavement Support Volunteers to provide support to family members after their loved one has died • Patient Support Volunteers to provide companionship and practical assistance To apply for free training, call Hospice at (925) 887-5678 and ask for the Volunteer Department, or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org. Established in 1977, Hospice of the East Bay is a not-for-profit agency that helps people cope with end of life by providing medical, emotional, spiritual, and practical support for patients and families, regardless of their ability to pay. To learn more or to make a donation of time or money, please contact (925) 887-5678 or visit www.hospiceeastbay.org.
because we are involved and invested with our patients. It has been amazing to see how some of my younger patients are now either in college or in the working world as it seems like only yesterday they were in elementary school; my 10 years of practice have passed quickly. When our patients come to our office they have lofty expectations, and we truly hope we have met them this past decade. However, regardless of what we tried to do, our success truly comes down to our patient base and our wonderful team; I could not do what I do without either one of them. Our staff does a tremendous job of providing excellent customer service and everyone that either comes into the office, calls on the phone, or emails us is treated cordially and with respect. It is important that our team promotes my philosophy and vision because they interact with the patients at least as much as I do, if not more. Over the past 10 years I believe this philosophy has resonated as every year our office patient volume has increased due to referrals and recommendations from our patient base. Speaking for everyone at our office, we truly enjoy being members of the community and being able to provide quality eyecare and eye-wear for the local community. We understand that our community has many options for their eyecare needs, and we do appreciate that our patients and families choose to come and support our office. As a celebration of our decade in Alamo, we will be having an open house later this summer. Please look out for notifications either through emails, newsletters, and social media posts. We look forward to serving you for many years to come. Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at 820-6622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165 in Alamo. Visit our website at www.alamooptometry.com, and join us on Facebook, Instagram, Advertorial and Twitter @Alamo Optometry.
C L A S S I F I E D ITEMS NEEDED FROM ALAMO RESIDENTS
Members of Pleasant Hill Garden Study Club are looking for items for our annual non-profit sale. Items needed include pots, small garden furniture, statuary, etc. We can pick up and provide you with a donation receipt. Please call Robin at 925-820-9185.
FRENCH & ITALIAN LESSONS
Have you ever wanted to learn French or Italian or become more fluent? Now is the time, learn a new language and culture with no jet lag. Lessons offered one-on-one or in small, fun, and supportive classes. First lesson is free. Email taraneh7@gmail.com.
AUTOS WANTED We Will Buy or Consign Your Car. All cars displayed in our private and secure showroom. We are a locally family owned dealership serving the Lamorinda and San Ramon Valley for over 30 years in a very relaxed atmosphere. Free pick-up and delivery. 925-820-1188.
COMPUTER HELP
ITkid Computer Help with any tech related issue for a low price. Computer Set-up & Repair •Email •Wifi •Smartphone •Home Theater - $40/hr. Contact Max Nunan, (925) 482-5488, maxnunan@gmail.com, www.itkid.co.
FOR RENT
CONDO VACATION RENTAL Mauna Lani Resort, Big Island. New luxury 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath condo on 4th fairway. Minimum 3 night stay. Contact Alamo owners for discounted rate. (925)381-7042, Alamomgt@usa.net
Alamo Today Classifieds
Reach over 6,500 homes and businesses in Alamo & Diablo - Help Wanted, For Sale, Services, Lessons, Pets, Rentals, Wanted, Freebies...$35 for up to 45 words.$5 for each additional 15 words. Send or email submissions to: 3000F Danville Blvd #117,Alamo,CA 94507 or editor@yourmonthlypaper.com. Run the same classified ad in our sister papers “Lafayette Today” or “Danville Today News” and pay half off for your second and/or third ad! Payment by check made out to “The Editors” must be received before ad will print. Your cancelled check is your receipt. We reserve the right to reject any ad.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
NATURALBREASTAUGMENTATION
By Dr. Barbara Persons
As women, we have a relationship with our breasts throughout our lives. Size, sensation, position, breast feeding, and even breast cancer (which affects one in seven women) affect this relationship and how we feel about them. Our breasts are an integral part of our femininity and our sexuality. While breast implants are quite safe and very lovely, when performed well, they are medical devices. They must be monitored and revised several times over a lifetime. Natural breast augmentation with our own fat is a wonderful alternative to breast implants. This fat grafting method uses your own body fat to create larger and fuller breasts, without scarring or large incisions. In this procedure, I remove fat from places where you want it removed and gently place it into your breasts. This fat includes stem cells and platelet-rich plasma that is delicately processed in order to sculpt a fuller breast using microdroplet injections through a few tiny needle holes. This type of breast augmentation doesn’t involve implants, general anesthesia, stitches, or in many cases even intravenous sedation. And, on top of that, recovery is relatively easy. The cost of natural breast augmentation using your own fat is about the same as the cost of implants, but with the natural fat grafting breast augmentation, you can achieve a better overall shape and more full breasts. Because breast augmentation takes fat from other parts of your body and moves it into your breasts using advanced liposuction technology, it simultaneously sculpts and contours your body as well therefore addressing two areas at once which is a more cost efficient procedure than breast implants alone. Fat grafting achieves a half-cup size increase per breast per fat grafting session. You may want two sessions to achieve over a cup size of breast enlargement, but it is worth it!
JULY 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 27
Our breasts are naturally around 50% fat which is why adding your own body’s fat allows them to maintain their natural feel and look. Visually, the look of fat grafting for breast augmentation versus breast implants is more subtle, natural, and indistinguishable from your breast tissue. In addition to increasing size, breast augmentation using fat is an excellent way to restore breast shape after pregnancy, weight loss, or breastfeeding. I perform multiple breast augmentations per week. Time after time patients have told me that they feel more confident in their bodies while maintaining a natural look and feel. My patients enjoy the benefit of minimal recovery time. Breast implants can take several weeks to recover from. My patients lead full lives, and being sidelined by a post-surgery recovery is less than ideal. When I perform a breast augmentation with fat, my patients typically take a few days off -- the equivalent of a long weekend. Breast augmentation using fat is an excellent way to naturally enhance your breasts. It is the future of breast reconstruction, using exciting, natural, and safe methods. As your local Board Certified plastic surgeon with years of experience, my passion is helping clients look and feel their absolute best. I invite you to come in for a consultation soon. Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. is located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. To contact me call 925-283-4012 or email drbarb@personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial
HEARING LOSS ASSOCIATION
Come to meetings of the Diablo Valley Chapter of Hearing Loss Association of America at 7pm on the 1st Wednesday of the month at the Walnut Creek United Methodist Church located at 1543 Sunnyvale Ave., Walnut Creek Education Bldg., Wesley Room. Meeting room and parking are at back of church. All are welcome. Donations are accepted. An assistive listening system is available for T-coils, and most meetings are captioned. Contact HLAADV@hearinglossdv.org or (925) 264-1199 or www.hearinglossdv.org for more information.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 28 • ALAMO TODAY • JULY 2017
The Combs Team Professionals You Can Count On
Nancy
Joe
Call the Combs Team
This is Rockcliff Country
®
92 5 -9 8 9 -6 0 86 www.TheCombsTeam.com
This month I wanted to focus on what I consider to be the average Alamo Family Home of 4 bedrooms equipped with 2-3 baths and see if the upward market trend we observed throughout 2016 can be seen here at the half way point of 2017 as well. At the peak, the 2006-2007 time frame, the average price paid for one of these 3,000 sq. ft. gems was $1,512,000, selling at a stratospheric price of $504 per square foot. Supply was very low and demand was very high. Through the first five months of 2017 and 16 days of June, the price for an Alamo Family Home has increased somewhat compared to last year. Current average sales price stands at $1,719,000 compared to $1,684,000 in 2016. This represents a price increase of 2% over the previous year. Dollars per square foot increased $528 to $571 for an 8.1% increase. Why the discrepancy? Looking at size of home sold, you will see that last year they were bigger by about 236 square feet. Adjusting for the size differential this year’s average sales price would be $1,874,000, an 11% increase and another year of huge growth. It’s quite common for average home size to vary from year to year. For the year a total of 38 Family homes have been sold. Inventory remains low with only 15 similar properties currently on the market. Last year 22 remained so inventory is down about 22% from last year. Alamo Family Homes are selling at a rate of 7 per month. Current inventory sits at about 2 month’s supply. When you consider days on market stand at 23, a week less than one month on average, and inventory continues to shrink we should not be surprised to learn Alamo is still a very hot market. Everyone asks, “Are we in 4 bed 2-3 Bath Homes Sales Alamo Jan 1-Jul 16 a Real Estate bubble?” Eleven Year $ Sq. Foot Avg. Price Size Sq. Ft. years have passed since the be2012 $ 379 $ 1,108,000 2923 ginning of the big crash which 2013 $ 445 $ 1,297,000 2914 bottomed late 2011. With the 2014 $ 456 $ 1,362,000 2986 recent run up in home prices, we 2015 $ 487 $ 1,469,000 3118 are about 8.2% ahead of those 2016 $ 528 $ 1,684,000 3283 2006 prices. So, if you bought 2017 $ 571 $ 1,719,000 3047 your home in 2006, on average
you’ve gained something less than Alamo Family Home 1% per year on the investment. This doesn’t sound like much of run up or $571 $560 a bubble does it? If you bought your $528 home anytime during the downturn, $510 you’ve done significantly better $487 $460 enjoying robust rebound appreciation. $456 $445 So just for the fun of it, where $410 would prices be if the market had ap$379 preciated a mere 3% per year during $360 those past eleven years? Figuring a 1 2 3 4 5 6 Years 2012-2017 simple 33% increase from our 2006 base, our average price would stand at $1,997,660. Average price per square foot would be $670. Will Alamo Real Estate recover to this point without any price correction? It’s impossible to say but a number of factors favor it. Today, mortgage interest rates are 30% lower than during the last peak and average income in Alamo is up by more than $10,000 per household. Combine this with population growth, job creation, few net new home starts and you can easily envision continued strong demand. Low inventory is likely to persist as Proposition 13 has made it undesirable for older, long term home owners to sell their homes due to taxes on huge capital gains, at least until the passing of a spouse. Further exacerbating low inventory, retirees are now unlocking their home equity with reverse mortgages. This enables them to stay put and pass the remaining value of their home to their children without huge tax consequences. This will likely continue and accelerate until home prices fall again. We are blessed to live in this truly amazing country. Show everyone you love America too by proudly displaying an American Flag. Have a very safe and Happy 4th of July. Call me if you would like an honest estimate of your home’s value at 925-989-6086. Email me at joecombs@thecombsteam.com to receive the electronic version of this monthly article. To find archived articles for Alamo and Danville Real Estate, please visit our website at www.thecombsteam.com Visit our Facebook Page “Real Estate Services for Danville, Alamo, and more”. Dollars Per Square Foot
ALAMO REAL ESTATE: FAMILY HOME PRICES UP 8.1%
Alamo Jones Ranch
Alamo 10 Acre Estate
Alamo Crest Beauty
SO
LD
lt Mu
iple
e Of f
r s!
Beautiful custom home with views, gardens, huge master, 3 ensuite bedrooms, bonus room/au pair suite with private entrance. Priced to sell $5,950,000.
Executive home 6,521 sq. ft. with views of Mt. Diablo. Two master suites, au pair unit, office, exercise salon, wine room. Priced to sell $2,599,000
Luxury Mediterranean Resort Living in Alamo. We represented the buyer and the seller. We have more buyers. Price $3,195,000.
Alamo Custom Luxury Home
Danville Single Story
Alamo Single Story
PE
ND
ING
lt Mu
iple
er s Of f
!
Stonegate 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath with 1 bedroom downstairs. Pool/spa, BBQ, putting green. Priced to sell $2,000,000
P
IN D N E
G
Four bedroom single story. Like new with view. Priced to sell $1,299,000
Data presented in this column is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Contra Costa and Alameda MLS service and other quoted sources. Joe Combs, Nancy Combs, The Combs Team, J. Rockcliff and the MLS service do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. DRE #0144125.
SO
LD
One story backs open space. 3 bedroom, large workshop. Nancy and I represented the buyer. We have more buyers. J. Rockcliff Realtors 15 Railroad Ave., Danville CA. 94526