editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 1
JULY 2017
CURING CHILDHOOD CANCER CAN’T WAIT: JUMP WITH GRANDMA BEE
By Jody Morgan
On Saturday, July 22, Rebecca Byrom is holding a fundraiser – Jump with Grandma Bee – in honor of her youngest grandson, Alex McLin. In recognition of the courage he has shown in battling cancer, Alex’s grandmother is mustering all of her own courage to focus attention on the immediate need to fight pediatric cancers with funding for research. Donations in support of her daring decision to dive from a plane to heighten awareness of childhood cancer will go directly Alex McLin and Grandma Bee (photo to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foun- courtesy of Rebecca Byrom) dation. “Grandma Bee” will be jumping with the guidance of the Patriot Parachute Team (former Navy Seals) during Sky Dive San Diego. Since being diagnosed last year with osteosarcoma, a rare bone cancer, at age 11, McLin has endured nine months of grueling chemotherapy as well as extensive surgery on his left leg. His latest scan is clear, but he still
See Jump continued on page 19
MEET ARTIST THAIS HELENA
By Linda Summers Pirkle
“I’ve always loved words,” says Thais Helena, Brazilian born local artist. She turns heads as she walks into a room with her thick, wavy hair piled on her head, sporting a bright mustard colored scarf and dangling earrings. “Now this love of writing has transformed to another vehicle of expression in which I use not just words, but images, shapes, shades, textures, color, and quotes. I create both mixed media and abstract art.” In her lightly accented English, Thais Helena peppers her phrases with “How do you say in English?” and shares her thoughts on beauty, art, and her journey from a career as an attorney in Brazil to an artist in California. She uses her many talents to weave inspirational words and three dimensional art to honor the “boldly beautiful” -- women who are not perfect. “Beauty is the opposite
See Thais continued on page 7
Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA
ECRWSS
SENIOR CENTER WITHOUT WALLS
By Linda Summers Pirkle
The kitchen wall phone of yesteryear (usually in a pastel blue, sunny yellow, or white) allowed the user to cradle it under her chin, stir the contents of a bowl, and wipe down the counter to the distance that corresponded with the farthest reach of the extra-long cord, all the while chatting with a best friend. Do you remember when dialing the telephone was one of the quickest and easiest ways to reach out to friends and colleagues? With all the forms of technology available today including email, texting, Facebook, Snapchat, Skype, G-chat etc., the old fashioned telephone is oftentimes overlooked as a technology of its own. However, since 2004, hundreds of seniors, many of whom are from the
SCWW staff photo, from left to right: Amber Carroll, Director, Patt Schroeder, Program Specialist, Jeff Cheung, Administrative Coordinator, Katie Wade, Program Manager
generation who prefer to use old school tech, take part in Senior Center Without Walls, an award-winning program offering activities, education, friendly conversation, and an assortment of classes, support groups, and presentations, all by real time group telephone calls. Based in San Francisco, Senior Center Without Walls (SCWW) is a subsidiary
See Senior continued on page 18
FRANK LEACH: MAN OF ACTION, MAN OF WORDS
By Jody Morgan
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 Volume VIII - Number 9 return from Washington, DC to Oakland, CA in 1909. 3000F Danville Blvd. #117, Alamo, CA 94507 His delight in Diablo’s natural bounty continued until (925) 405-6397 his death in 1929. Fax (925) 406-0547 Born in Auburn, New York on August 19, 1846, Frank Leach traveled with his mother by steamer in Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher editor@ 1852 to join his father who had made the trip yourmonthlypaper.com almost two years in advance of their journey. His first experience with a major urban fire occurred The opinions expressed herein belong the writers, and do not necessarily that December in Sacramento and was followed toreflect that of Danville Today News. Danville Today News is not by a flood that littered the roads with furniture responsible for the content of any of and personal effects. Subsequent experiences the advertising herein, nor does
See Leach cont. on page 12
publication imply endorsement.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 2 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • 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!
Ro u n d H i l l C o u n t r y C l u b
PUBLIC NOTICE – JULY 30, 2017 Local Artist Beth Batchelor turns 100! Come one, come all to celebrate!
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.
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.
• 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
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 3
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.
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.
DANVILLE POLICE OFFER ‘EXCHANGE’ ZONE
Residents who purchase items via online services such as Craigslist will now have a designated neutral ‘Exchange Zone’ in the upper parking lot of the Danville Town offices to conduct their business. Signage has been installed, and the Danville Police Department has designated parking spaces at the Town of Danville offices, 510 La Gonda Way, for residents to conduct transactions in a video-recorded space. Besides taking place right outside police headquarters, the spaces are under constant video recording, helping to create an atmosphere of safety and assurance for would-be buyers and dissuading criminals from using online merchandising for criminal purposes. “Having the Exchange Zone should help prevent residents from being the victim of a crime using a classified ad site,” said Police Chief Steve Simpkins. “This should help us continue to convince criminals that Danville is not a good place to operate.” To learn more about the safe zone, contact Detective Sargent Brian Sliger at (925) 314-3700 or bsliger@danville.ca.gov.
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.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com OUT AND ABOUT
Moonlight Movies will be held at the Town Green located at 400 Front Street in Danville. There will be crafts and activities beginning at 6:30pm and showtime starting around 8:15pm. Upcoming movies are - July 14 – Beauty and the Beast (animated version), July 28 – Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, and August 11 – Finding Dory. Music in the Park takes place at Oak Hill Park located at 3005 Stone Valley Rd. in Danville. Food trucks will be provided by Food Truck Mafia. July 8 country music will be performed by Rachel Steele and Road 88. Boston Tribute band, Long Time, will perform July 22, and Beatles Tribute band, Mania!, will perform August 19. On August 5 Music in the Park shifts for one night to the Town Green located Enjoy an afternoon of Sips, at 400 Front Street Snacks and Some Jazz! in Danville where July 16th | 3:30 p.m. - 6:00 p.m. 3Day Weekend will $25 per person perform Mowtown, Call for reservations rock, and R&B 925.837.9141 | SanDamiano.org tunes. Bring your family and friends to these wonderful events.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 4 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • JULY 2017
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.
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
DANVILLE ROTARY CLUBS
The Danville Rotary Club meets every Monday at noon at the Black Bear Diner in Danville. For information, contact Bob Chace at bchace@ pacbell.net or by phone at 925-838-7007. If you are interested in visiting the Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary Club, contact Jim Coleman at coleman_jd@pacbell.net. Meetings are held on Tuesdays at 7AM at Crow Canyon Country Club. The Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley meets for dinner every Wednesday night at the Blackhawk Country Club, located at 599 Blackhawk Club Drive in Danville. Networking and social time starts at 6pm, with the meeting starting at 7pm and ending at 8:30pm. A sit-down dinner and cocktails are served, and the weekly program features interesting guest speakers. Guests attend free of charge and are always welcome! For more information, call Laura Montalvo at (925) 437-2445 or send her an e-mail at winechickathome@gmail.com. You can also visit our website at www.sanramonvalleyrotary.com.
RSVP to Dale Bridges (925) 876-9710 Visit my website at bethbatchelor.com.
MEALS ON WHEELS
Seniors in our community need your support! Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services has been supporting seniors in YOUR neighborhood since 1968. Two of our programs, Meals on Wheels and Friendly Visitors, rely on the support of volunteers, and we need your help now more than ever. Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers deliver meals to local homebound seniors through regular two hour shifts once per week or as substitute drivers. Friendly Visitors volunteers provide weekly one-hour companionship visits to isolated seniors. To volunteer for either program, please call (925)937-8311.
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 3” X 5” Goblet Wine • Closed MondaysDanville Today 190.00 13 oz. 12 oz. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley w discount 133.00 is located in the restored train depot on the High Style corner of Railroad and Prospect Avenues in Wine Glasses & Goblets Alamo Today 155.00 downtown Danville. Free parking is available. For more information, call (925) 837-375, e-mail srvmusew discount 108.50 reg. 44.00 set of 4 um@sbcglobal.net, or visit www.musemsrv.org.
SPECIAL!
Today Papers
July 2017
NOW 24.99 set of 4 (6.25 each stem)
Hand Crafted – Lead Free
Walnut Creek, Broadway Plaza Danville, The Livery
BLACKHAWK “FIRST SUNDAY” CARS & COFFEE Total 241.50
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.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 5
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.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 6 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • JULY 2017
AN ABUNDANCE OF SUMMER PROGRAMS AT OUR COUNTY LIBRARIES
nts
prese
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 TO 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. a musical revue! District II has some of the most educational and comprehensive library programs in the Village Theatre, Danville County. Once again, this year, libraries will be offering a great program called Discover & Go August 11th-13th, 2017 which provides instant online access to free and low-cost tickets to museums, science centers, zoos, theaters, and other Friday@ 7pm Tickets fun local cultural venues. $20 Saturday @ 2pm & 7pm Sunday @ 2pm 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 www.ICanDoThatTheatre.com 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 2017 www.srvkiwanis.org/parade 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 2017 trivia. Pick up a new Brain Building Challenge each week while supplies last. Assemble the challenge at home or in the library. There is something THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSORS! for all ages. All finishers will receive a book prize and will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win additional prizes. For more information, visit the county library site at www.ccclib.org/reads/summerreading/challenges.html. All of our libraries continue to flourish and grow based on the needs of our libraries’ users. There are a multitude of activities and programs aimed for people of certain age groups. On Mondays and Tuesdays during the month of July, San Ramon and Danville libraries will provide toddler and preschool story times for young children. The Town of Danville will also offer a Coding Club for kids and JAVA computer programming for teens. At the end of July, there will also be a Family Campfire storytime. Doug and Cindy Gin Similar to all other libraries in the district, the Walnut Creek libraries Richard Frankel, Attorney will have arts enrichment workshops for children and Textile MakerSpace for adults throughout the summer; individuals will learn techniques for First Choice Abbey Carpets NBC Bay Area Safeway Barry & Wynn, Architects KSFO sketching, knitting, crocheting, and cross stitching. These are only some of Alamo World Travel Law Offices of Ken Begun Alamo/Danville Today Onstad’s Insurance the highlighted activities for July. While most of these summer activities East Bay Times Sweeney Kovar Accountants & Advisors Doyle Quane Freeman Family Law Group remain traditional, many are new to foster 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 books out to enthusiastic readers. Their services to our county truly make a difference for individuals, families, and communities. From story times and movie nights to arts and crafts and coding clubs, there is always something exciting going on. Visit the CCCL ‘Programs and Events’ page, accessible at www.ccclib.org, for a more comprehensive list of activities for the month. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon, and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us or (925) 957-8860. A Special Thanks to summer intern Chloe Chu who contributed to this article.
HAMILTON HAIRSPRAY
ICDT is a non-profit 501 (c) 3 organization
ALAMO DANVILLE ARTISTS’ SOCIETY 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.org, or https://www.facebook.com/AlamoDanvilleArtistsSociety. Oil painting by Blackhawk Gallery Artist Tom Lemmer
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
Thais continued from front page
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 7
GOLF!
of perfection,” she says. “It’s about confidence, charisma, and character. It’s about inner strength and how you make others feel about themselves. True beauty is a light in the heart; it’s a reflection of the soul. This is true beauty.” Thais notes, “I grew up in São Paulo, Brazil’s vibrant financial center, with numerous cultural institutions and a rich architectural tradition. Later, my family moved to the countryside where I spent several years of my youth, and then returned to São Paulo to study law and to work at my former law firm. I remained living and working there until I married my American husband, moved to Danville, and had my children. My mom was always very artistic, and the way that she saw the world, through an artistic perspective, had a huge influence on me. I grew up with her talking about aesthetic, colors, shapes, and beauty. Throughout the years, I saw her working with batik, maiolica, jewelry, clay, and decoration/interior design. I still love to decorate MONDAY, JULY 24 2017 spaces with my mom.” Thais reflected, “I think the hugest influence that my mom's way of life had on Enjoy a beautiful day on the course followed by a no-host cocktail me came from how she used to turn her eyes to less fortunate people. When I was a hour, silent auction, live auction and dinner. All proceeds benefit child, she used to take me with her to the orphanages and other similar institutions SHELTER, Inc. in its work to prevent and end homelessness. where she used to volunteer as an art teacher. That was the experience that I was most thankful for. I have turned my eyes to work with women who have lost their hair while strugREGISTER: SHELTERINC.ORG/SWING gling with cancer or alopecia. Enchanted by the inner strength and beauty of these PRESENTED BY ladies, I am creating a series of work specifically to honor these special warriors. I call the series Boldly Beautiful. While on this journey, I have been blessed with the opportunity to meet and partner with the amazing foundation Boldly Me in SPONSORED BY Fremont. Founded by Alanna Powell, children and teenagers from around the Robert & Janet Dick & Carol Hyman Besse San Francisco Bay Area are guided to help build their self-esteem and boldly embrace themselves.” “I see my art as an instrument, an instrument to hopefully bring joy, and thus, I hope it can be spread to touch as many people as it’s helpful,” she states. “I ultimately hope to have my art used as a vehicle to serve others.” “My studio is at my home,” says Thais. I work with my art during the mornings when my children are at school. From my art room I see our back yard covered with flowers and redwoods. It’s so peaceful, beautiful.” Thais Helena’s works have been exhibited in various venues throughout the Bay Area including the O’Hanlon Center for the Arts in Mill Valley, Harrington Gallery in Pleasanton, Bankhead Theater Gallery in Livermore, Blackhawk Gallery in Danville, Benicia Open Studios, and Peace Lutheran Church in Danville on cultural evenings with a combination of great jazz and art shows. At the 40th Annual ADAS (Alamo/Danville Artists’ Society) Spring Art Show in Blackhawk in May, Beth Batchelor, founder and judge of the ADAS shows reflected on Thais’s three dimensional acrylic with flowers which feature bald, bold, and beautiful women and commented, “This is about true art, art that conveys a message and serves others. It’s beautiful.” Bill Carmel, local art critic and former art professor UC Berkeley noted,“Thais makes art that resolves the human need for support, love, and compassion. Her images and words communicate these ideas directly and positively; the compositions are simple and stunning. Sometimes she weaves natural forms, colors, and images into the work. Another wonderful quality of Thais’s art is that her subjects run the gamut of human life experience from tragedy, to the ordinary, to profound joy without resorting to dark nor sentimental clichés. It is visual poetry. The work comes from a place where spirit lives.” In the fall of 2015 Thais Helena’s artwork called “The Most Beautiful Children on Earth” was presented to the Deputy Secretary General, Jan Eliasson, in celebration of the United Nations 70th anniversary. It became a part of the United Nations Art Collection in New York City. Thais added these last thoughts: “I make art for three fundamental reasons: As a vehicle to inspire one’s soul, as a vehicle to serve my expressive needs, Stop by and as a desire to communicate messages that may our new office in the serve others.” Alamo Courtyard Her posters, prints and greeting cards are available for 3195 Danville Blvd #4, sale at San Damiano Retreat Gift Shop in Danville and Alamo the St. Francis Retreat Gift Shop in San Juan Bautista. Thais Helena’s website is thaishelenastudio.com.
SWING FOR SHELTER
PAGE 8 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • JULY 2017
SAN RAMON VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY
By Jamie Westgate, Principal
Most adults cherish their childhood memories from the lazy hazy days of summer. I was fortunate enough to grow up in the midwest with a lake in our backyard, affording us the opportunity to independently explore the outdoors and invent fun in all sorts of creative ways. For those of us rearing children today, we are aware that our youth no longer have the freedom to roam and explore with such independence, so providing meaningful experience takes a little extra work. Recently, I took my two youngest kids to the Lake Tahoe for a little rest and relaxation. Both girls are now teenagers, and together we couldn’t help but take note of the young children on the beach engaging in some of their favorite childhood activities: hunting for crayfish, catching minnows in nets, and “looking for treasure” in the crystal clear water. I was struck by the realization that providing opportunities to grow this imaginative spirit is not only healthy for kids, but a necessary part of their development. This type of healthy exploration helps children think creatively, manage their time, engage new people in conversation, develop patience, and learn to problem solve. Summer is such a great time to afford children the opportunity to develop these life skills and promote independence. In order to do so, adults may need to get out of the way and let their children play independently. With the help of my daughters, I’ve made a list of inexpensive, easy ways to support this type of learning: • Let kids set up a backyard circus/talent show and sell tickets for their performance • Have a neighborhood “car wash” for bikes, scooters, and other riding toys using soapy water, spray bottles, and hoses • Use duct tape and shoeboxes to make a dollhouse; similarly, tape toilet paper tubes together to construct a parking garage for toy cars • Set up obstacle courses using household items or sports equipment in the garage; include activities such as basketball shooting into a laundry basket or dropping clothespins into a bottle • Invent a new game and make a game board from construction paper or poster board • Use sheets, blankets, and sleeping bags to build a fort or reading nook in the backyard or living room; provide flashlights for extra fun • Carefully poke holes in the lid of a jar and catch ladybugs, crickets, and other bugs. Be sure to set them free after a few minutes of observation • Unwrap crayons and use them sideways to create leaf rubbings • Build paper airplanes; design them with colored pencils and have contests for flight distance • Select 10 items for a “cooking project”; sample the invention when it’s finished • Hang an old sheet in the backyard and decorate using diluted food coloring in spray bottles; simply wash the sheet to clean up It is such a temptation to rely on phones, tablet or other devices to fill summer free time, but it is my hope our parents are wise enough to choose imaginative play. Not only is it much healthier for a child’s mental, emotional, and character development, but kids will find it’s much more entertaining as well. I already miss seeing our SRVCA students, but I can’t wait to hear about their summer adventures when they return in August. If you’re interested in enrolling your children in a school with excellent academics in the context of Christian faith, please contact us this summer and consider enrollment for the new school year, www.srvca.org.
VETERANS MEMORIAL BUILDING OF SAN RAMON VALLEY
The Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley located at 400 Hartz Avenue in Danville offers a Historic Military Museum & Library as well as a Veteran Resource Center. The Museum & Library is open Monday through Friday from 9AM to 3PM. Every Saturday from 8AM to 11AM a Veteran Coffee and Pastry social is held. To access resources for Veterans you can connect with a County Veteran Service Officer every Wednesday from 10AM to 2PM. For an appointment call 925-313-1481. To learn more about the Veteran’s facility and programs visit www. vmbsrv.org or email info@vmbsrv.org.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
MONTE VISTA 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. nd On June 2 , 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.
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE 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.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 9
ST. ISIDORE SCHOOL
By Maria Ward, Principal
DANVILLE AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE presents
We are grateful for the huge success of our parish’s summer faith camp last month. We enjoyed seeing so many students from our school and parish community come together to share in their Catholic faith. Many of our middle school students volunteered and earned service hours toward their annual goals. Our pastor, Father Moran, also made daily visits to support the camp. He and his dog, Beauty, were on campus enjoying all of the festivities. Our classroom remodel is officially under way! We are looking forward to unveiling our new 3rd, 4th 5th, and 6th grade classrooms at the beginning of the school year. This huge project redesigns the space for a 21st century learner. We’ve raised the ceiling. The floors, lighting, and class configurations are all new. We are also improving our technological infrastructure, allowing more students to have faster access to technology. Our students and teachers cannot wait to get into their new space! BLACKHAWK COUNTRY CLUB MONDAY We are thrilled to announce we have been accepted to the Challenge 18-Hole, Par 72, Championship Golf Course 599 Blackhawk Club Drive Success Program. The program is based out of Stanford University and also JULY 10 Danville, CA, 94506 partners with Carondelet and De la Salle schools. The programs’ mission is ● SCRAMBLE FORMAT to work with schools and families to provide kids with the academic, social, REGISTRATION - 10:30AM ● HOLE SPONSORSHIPS BBQ LUNCH - 11-12PM and emotional skills needed to succeed now and in the future. It is a terrific ● RAFFLE PRIZES SHOTGUN START - 12PM fit for St. Isidore. We will be attending seminars, implementing the program ● PUTTING & CHIPPING CONTEST NO-HOST COCKTAILS - 5:30PM DINNER, AWARDS & RAFFLE - 6PM vision, along with ours. We will also get coaching from this amazing team. INCLUDES: CONTACT: Danville Area Chamber at 925-837-4400 To learn more about them, visit www.challengesuccess.org. OR visit www.danvilleareachamber.com There are still a few openings for the 2017-2018 school year. We believe in the development of the whole child, bringing out the best in each and every student. We are one of two Catholic schools in the Oakland Diocese and have over 600 amazing students. We instill in them the importance of service and living by the Gospels’ values. St. Isidore School is a community of remarkable teachers, staff, students, and parents who work together to create success in each child’s life. If you have any questions about enrollment or would like to take a tour, please call us at (925) 837-2977. We hope you enjoy the time with family and friends and create great memories! Our students are Gopher/Mole Removal reminded to continue to live out the message of the Gospels in their words and actions and make No Poison Mass attendance a priority during the summer, regardless of where travels may take them. Rest, read, and rejuvenate. Have a blessed and safe summer.
ALOHA
GOLF TOURNAMENT
2017
925-765-4209
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, and 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.
PAGE 10 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • JULY 2017
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
Serving the Bay Area with honesty and integrity since 1973
Since 1973
3191-J 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)
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 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 11
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
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
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. NEW YEAR On Thursday, September 7, beginning at 7PM, “Ballads • CARPET NEW FLOORS! & Blarney: An Evening of Traditional Irish Music & • HARDWOOD Song” takes place at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley (205 Railroad Avenue, Danville). The lively • CARPET RUGS Serving Alamo & Danville Since 1979! evening – complete with beer and pretzels – features • HARDWOOD CUSTOM RUGS Donagh McKeown and guests from the Irish Cultural Center in San Francisco. Reservations for this event can • RUGS LINOLEUM be made now at www.villagetheatreshows.com, or by • LINOLEUM TILE calling (925) 314-3400. AM On Saturday, September 10, beginning at 9 , the O’Neill Foundation sponsors the second annual“Hike Family Owned Business to Tao House,” – a moderate hike from the O’Neill Since 1989 www.actionpoolrepair.com Commemorative across from the Danville Library to Tao 3344 Mt. Diablo Blvd. House. Advance registration is required for participants. Lafayette, CA E-mail your interest to taohouse.eonf@gmail.com. 925.284.4440 Information on all O’Neill Festival events and programs can be found on the Eugene O’Neil Foundawww.LamorindaFloors.com tion’s website www.eugeneoneill.org. Contractor Lic# 978033-C53 License# 708486
ACTION POOL REPAIR
925.820.3640
PAGE 12 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • JULY 2017
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 instead of parsley. The precise origin of coriander is unknown. Archaeological evidence indicates the importance of 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 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 conquistadors hadn’t introduced cilantro to the Americas. Hence, the foliage is
www.yourmonthlypaper.com 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 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.
Leach continued from front page
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 editorial integrity of the newspapers he established (first in Napa, then in Vallejo and eventually in Oakland) led to his election to the State Legislature and his appointment as Postmaster of Vallejo. In 1897, President McKinley appointed Leach Superintendent of the San Francisco Mint. On April 18, 1906, at 5:12AM Leach was awakened along 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 Frank A. Leach, son Abe B. Leach, and grandson Abe B. Leach, Jr. at Diablo Decoration Day Tournament, 1918 (photo courtesy of David Mackesey)
See Leach continued on page 21
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 13
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 14 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • JULY 2017
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 in Space. The talk will be held at the Lindsey Wildlife Museum Auditorium which opens at 6:45PM. The Mt. Diablo Astronomical Society (MDAS) meeting 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. J u p i t e r. Jupiter, our solar Saturn. Photo by James Scala. 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 of Saturn’s 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.
WINE CELLARS – PART 2
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.
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.
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
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.
Lost Dog!
$50 REWARD
If you find him and your name is drawn!
Danville Dog is Missing He has become lost in this paper!
He is very small, so you will have to look hard if you want to find him.
To be eligible send a letter telling us where you found him, along with your name and address, to: Lost Dog! ~ Danville Today News 3000F Danville Blvd #117 • Alamo, CA 94507 Lic# 1100014354; Bay Area Entertainment
Elizabeth Buchanan is our winner!
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 15
(Now partnered with Stone Valley Dental)
WE ARE ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS
CALL US AT (925) 831-8310
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 16 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • 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.com. Advertorial
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 17
INVESTING VS. SPECULATING
By Robert Cucchiaro
I recently read a great article by Warren Buffett (which I am happy to share) where he talked about two great investments that he made and why they worked out as well as they did. The point of Buffett’s article was that in both cases he was investing as opposed to speculating. While most investors are certainly familiar with these terms in general, they are unfamiliar with how these terms apply to
an investment. In order to explain the difference between investing vs. speculating, let’s use two different imaginary lemonade stands. The first lemonade stand has a 30 year lease right outside of a location where hundreds of pedestrians walk by each day. They sell high quality lemonade, and because of the convenience of their location, they are able to command a slight premium over what you pay at the grocery store for lemonade. This lemonade stand has been in business for over 20 years and has a history of producing 15%-20% profit margins. The owners of this lemonade stand decide that they want to expand their business by offering cookies. They need to raise capital in order to do this, so they issue stock in the company. They plan to pay a dividend to shareholders and plan to increase this dividend over time as the business grows and profits increase. The second lemonade stand does not have the history or the stability of the first, but they have something that they think is even more valuable: a patent. Their lemonade may cure baldness. They are still in clinical trials and their product has not been FDA approved, but once (if) it is they will be able to sell each cup of lemonade for 20 times what the going rate is! They are currently not profitable because they are sinking all of their revenue into research and development, but they hope to be profitable in the future. They are also looking to raise capital as they were initially funded by some venture capitalists who are not willing to commit any more seed capital to this company. You’ve probably guessed it by now: the first company represents an investment with a stable earnings history, profits, and a dividend. The second represents speculation, an idea, and a potential growth story. There is nothing wrong with either one of these investments, as long as you understand the risk/reward trade off. The first company is likely to produce stable growth over the years but is not going to make you rich overnight. However, they are also very unlikely to make you go broke either. The second company has the potential for rapid growth; they could be the next Google for all we know. But they could also crash and burn and lose all of your money. When it comes to hiring a money manager or financial advisor to invest one’s hard-earned retirement money, it’s very important to understand that person’s investment strategy and philosophy. Do they invest or do they speculate? Are they swinging for the fences and taking outsized risks, or are they trying to be consistent and limit manage risk through portfolio construction techniques? Over the past few years, the large US stock market has been growing above its long-term normal average, and this has many folks wondering why their accounts haven’t performed as well as the large US stock market. One reason could be that most retirement portfolios are not 100% in large US stocks (if they were, they certainly wouldn’t be considered diversified). Another reason is that most money managers and financial advisors prefer to invest in profitable stocks as opposed to unprofitable ones. From March of 2016 through March of 2017, stocks with negative profits beat those with profits by over 16%. This is not a great sign and could be a reason to give your portfolio a second look. Whether you are already retired or 10 years away, the team at Summit Wealth & Retirement is here to help you with investment management, retirement planning, and financial & tax planning. Our team includes two CFPs, a CFA and an MBA, and we are conveniently located in Danville. Call us to make a complimentary appointment at (925) 927-1900 or visit Advertorial our website at www.summitwealthandretirement.com.
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
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 of our seniors. Caring Hands Volunteer Caregivers Program, a collaborative community outreach program between John Muir Health, social service agencies, congregations of various faiths and the community-at-large, creates finely-tuned one-onone 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.
PAGE 18 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • JULY 2017
Senior continued from front page
of Episcopal Senior Communities. Katie Wade, Program Manager with SCWW, shared her thoughts on the program and its success with its many participants, “Before I came to SCWW, I didn’t think of the phone as a technology. But now, I realize this basic technology, the telephone, is a great equalizer. Not only do most people have access to a phone, but there is a special component to meeting someone over the telephone. Because we can’t see each other, many stereotypes are stripped away; we’re able to get to know each other’s heart and thoughts without the trappings of bias.” Chris Dana, Culinary Artist and Episcopal Senior Community executive recently facilitated a SCWW cooking program via telephone and video conference with mouthwatering descriptions of a tantalizing menu of green papaya and carrot salad, curry catfish and kale with lime jasmine rice, and a toasted coconut cheesecake. Besides giving tips on cooking, he described his childhood in Fresno, California where he was exposed to fine cuisine with inspired family meals created by his mother who loved to experiment in the kitchen. The program lasted 45 minutes, and participants asked questions and shared some of their thoughts on the presentation which appropriately ended at noon, just in time for lunch. There are hundreds of seniors in the Bay Area who call in for programs about politics, art, religion, travel, health, and much more. Not only do they learn about subjects, but they also have the opportunity to share their thoughts. One participant, Stephanie, shared her thoughts on the importance of the programs in her
Lynn Rayburn, one of the original participants in the Senior Center Without Walls program noted, “I discovered Senior Center Without Walls was the ideal place for me. I’d been a social worker all my life, I had that need to be needed. That was the most important thing.”
life. With the new friends she made on her Gratitude Session with SCWW, she “dared to share” a difficult problem she was going through. With the perspective of a new phone friend, she was able to look at her dilemma through a different lens and said, “I felt a burden lift.” She added, “I feel grateful for being heard.” All the groups are accessible from the comfort of home. You can join all groups using a telephone, and a number of the groups can also be accessed using a computer or tablet. After you register you will be provided with the information you need to access any of the over 70 groups each week. Senior Center Without Walls is available to adults aged 60 and over who are interested in lifelong learning, support, fun, and engagement with a larger community. Register by phone or download the registration form and send via email or snail mail. Call 877-797-7299, email scww@jtm-esc.org, or snail mail 881 Turk Street, San Francisco, CA. 94102. SCWW is free. The program uses a toll-free number for the activities, so if you are using a regular land line telephone, there will be no charges on your phone bill. If you use a cell phone, check with your provider about possible charges. Sessions run for thirteen weeks. Some of the programs are Perfecting your French, Best Buy at the Grocery store or Pharmacy, Birds, Pet Tales, Open Mic, Cultural Literacy Meltdown, Grief Support, Home Town Tours, and many more. SCWW is always looking for new ideas for classes. If you have an inspiration for a new program or would like to volunteer as a facilitator, give them a call. Currently they are looking for volunteer facilitators with interests in history, sports, arts, and religion. Call 877-797-7299 for more information.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
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
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
NATURAL BREAST AUGMENTATION
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! 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
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 19
Men’s Divorce Support Group Master Critical Survival Skills: ~ Stress and anxiety reduction ~ Top ways to save $ during litigation ~ Proven co-parenting tools ~ Tools to turn down negative emotions ~ Stay productive amidst the storm Dr. John Schinnerer 913 San Ramon Valley Blvd. #280 Danville CA 94526 (925) 575-0258 DivorceSupport4Men.com GuideToSelf.com
~ Stop reacting out of anger ~ Learn from men further along the divorce path ~ Create new friendships * Space is limited. Reserve your spot now! * Individual sessions also available.
Jump continued from front page
needs crutches to walk. With a rod in his leg, he will require further surgery to keep pace with his growth over the next several years. Full body scans every three months will monitor whether his cancer remains in remission. Rebecca, a long-time Danville resident, writes: “I cannot cure my grandson, (though we are immensely grateful for the care he is getting at UCSF). All I can do in this situation is to try and help future children by raising money for children’s cancer research.” Research over the past forty years, according to the American Cancer Society, has improved the fiveyear survival rate of pediatric cancer patients from 58% in the mid-1970s to more than 80% today. After accidents, cancer is the leading cause of death in children under the age of 15. But while survival rates continue to improve, statistics on the incidence of childhood cancer remain unchanged. Causes are unknown, with the exception of rare genetically linked cases. Most long-term survivors of pediatric cancer experience problems with assorted illnesses in later life ranging from infertility to other forms of cancer. Byrom remembers a time not long past when she was relatively unaware of the toll cancer takes on young patients and their families. “For years I have passed by Children’s Hospital in Oakland, fairly oblivious to the drama within – now I know.” Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation began with the desire of four-year old Alexandra Scott to raise money to give doctors to help other children battling cancer. Diagnosed with the disease on her first birthday, Alex had recently left the hospital following a stem cell transplant when she set up her first lemonade stand. By the time she succumbed to her illness at age eight, she had already raised $1 million. Her Foundation’s mission is “to raise awareness of childhood cancer causes, primarily through research into new treatments and cures and to encourage and empower others – especially children – to get involved and make a difference for children with cancer.” Donations to “Jump with Grandma Bee” can be made by mailing a check to Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation, 111 Presidential Blvd Suite 203, Bala Cynwyd, PA 19004. Please note Event ID: E1325795 on your check. To donate online, search Grandma Bee Jump. That takes you to the appropriate event page on Alex’s Lemonade Stand Foundation’s website. For more information, email rjbyrom@comcast.net. For the past two years Rebecca Byrom has been President of the Danville-Alamo Garden Club and is also Past President of Diablo Women’s Garden Club. Her herbal workshops and luncheons are legendary. She has volunteered for 12 years with the Contra Costa Crisis Center as a bereavement counselor for parents who have lost children. You may catch her amidst prickly branches pruning roses at Osage Park, but you’ll rarely encounter Rebecca without her radiant optimism-engendering smile.
To advertise or share your story idea, contact us at 925.405.6397 or Editor@YourMonthlyPaper.com.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 20 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • 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.
CANCER SUPPORT COMMUNITY
The following workshops are held at the Cancer Support Community, located at 3276 McNutt Ave. in Walnut Creek. Classes are free. 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, HIPAA 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 will be used as a structure to explore your evolving feelings about your body, and exercises and techniques will be taught to help you feel kindness, care, and gentleness toward your body. For cancer patients and survivors.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
ALL MIXED UP: HOW YOUR PHONE IS CAUSING A SENSORY MISMATCH
By Dr. Jesse Call, D.C., Sycamore Valley Chiropractic
The human brain is a wonder to behold. It controls the function of every organ, tissue, and cell of your body. But what happens when there is a crossing of the wires? Does higher function of the brain decrease? What about posture? Movement? Ability to make good decisions? When we use electronic devices in a forward slumped posture (Let’s be honest: is there any better way to check your Snapchats, Instagram, or Facebook feed than flopped onto the couch?), we cause a sensory mismatch, leading to degeneration of the brain. Some parts become under-stimulated, while others become over-stimulated.
UNDER-STIMULATED:
• Frontal Lobes: The frontal lobes are involved in motor function, problem solving, spontaneity, memory, language, initiation, judgment, impulse control, and social behavior. Essentially, it is what makes you, you. When the frontal lobe is under-stimulated, such as when using a cell phone or playing a video game, motivation is lost, the ability to make good decisions is decreased, and memory and problem solving is reduced as well. • Parietal Lobes: The parietal lobes are involved in sensation and spatial awareness. This is your ability to know where you are in space. When the parietal lobe is dampened, it becomes difficult for your body to know where it is in relation to itself and other things. This increases your risk for injury and can lead to defused pain in the neck, back, or shoulder. • Cerebellum: The cerebellum receives information from the sensory systems, the spinal cord, and other parts of the brain and then regulates motor movements. The cerebellum coordinates voluntary movements such as posture, balance, coordination, and speech, resulting in smooth and balanced muscular activity. By disabling the cerebellum, smooth and accurate coordinated movement is reduced, resulting in an increased risk for injury and decreased athletic performance. • PMRF: Part of our brain stem called the pontomedullary reticular
Leach continued from page 12
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 21
formation (PMRF) is very important for our body function. Not only does it run posture and muscle tone, but it helps with blood pressure, heart rate, digestion, and a whole host of functions that your body does automatically. There is more. Ninety percent of all your brain’s thinking goes to the PMRF, and thus ninety percent of the feedback from the PMRF goes to your brain. If the PMRF is not working in this regard, it could effect our thinking. This could mean depression, anxiety, dark thoughts, or fearful thoughts.
OVER-STIMULATED
• Occipital Lobe: The occipital lobe is the visual processing center of the brain. When we spend prolonged time on electronic devices, we are only stimulating our visual system. There is no social connection made, no problems to solve, and not even any choices to be made. We simply process the visual stimuli. • Temporal Lobe: The temporal lobe is involved in primary auditory perception, such as hearing, and holds the primary auditory cortex. If we turn the sound up, which is especially prominent in video game use, we don’t only stimulate the occipital lobe but the temporal lobe as well. When the temporal lobe is over stimulated, we actual decrease our ability to control our emotions and to make rational decisions. Thus “temper tantrums” are more accurately called “temporal tantrums” because they are usually caused by an over-stimulation of the temporal lobe. When TV, computers, cell phones, and tablets become the center of our world, they start doing our thinking for us. The parts of your brain you would want running at peak efficiency are damped while those that simply process stimuli are turned up to 11. Cellphones may be smart, but the people are dumb. The silver lining is that the brain is highly plastic. It is able to shape and form and change. By making simple changes to you digital habits, you can combat the effects of this Digital Dementia. If you are interested in learning how, give us a call at (925) 837-5595, and set up an appointment. We would love to help you learn how to combat and overcome these effects. Sycamore Valley Chiropractic is located at 565 Sycamore Valley Rd. West in Danville. Please visit www.sycamorevalleychiropractic.com or call (925)837-5595 for more information or to schedule an appointment. Advertorial
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 Diablo Lake was a favorite spot for family water sports until the 1960s (photos courtesy of David Mackesey). Leach family to compete and win prizes in the same tournament.”
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 22 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • JULY 2017
YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST
A NUTRITION PLAN 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
HOSPICE OF THE EAST BAY ESTATE SALE SERVICE
After the death of a loved one, dealing with the entire contents of a home and a lifetime of possessions can be overwhelming. Hospice of the East Bay (HEB) Estate Sales, formally known as Diablo Appraisal and Estate Sales, is an estate sale and liquidation service that manages and coordinates your entire estate and provides you with a tax benefit by sharing the profits from the sale with HEB. We provide caring and trained professionals that can help you handle the entire process, making the seemingly impossible attainable. We will assess each item’s value, advertise the sale through multiple channels, organize and display your estate items, provide security before, during, and after the sale, run the estate sale smoothly and professionally, take unsold items to HEB thrift stores and provide with a tax deductible receipt for those items, clear out the house at the end of the sale, and leave the house empty and ready for cleaning. Everything will be handled for you, and best of all you won’t even need to be present! Families are provided with a guaranteed honest, efficient, and reliable service. HEB Estate Sales was established in 2001 for families requesting help in selling the contents of their homes. Funds generated from the sale help benefit the patients and families in the care of HEB. Please call Patricia Wright at (925) 887-5678 or email patriciaw@hospiceeastbay.org for more information. 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.
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.
C L A S S I F I E D 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.
Danville Today Classifieds
Reach over 15,000 homes and businesses in Danville - Help Wanted, For Sale, Services, Lessons, Pets, Rentals, Wanted, Freebies... $35 for up to 45 words. $5 for each additional 15 words. Send or email submissions to: 3000F Danville Blvd #117, Alamo, CA 94507 or editor@yourmonthlypaper.com. Run the same classified ad in our sister papers “Alamo Today” or “Lafayette Today” and pay half off for your second and/or third ad! Payment by check made out to “The Editors” must be received before ad will print. Your cancelled check is your receipt. We reserve the right to reject any ad.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
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 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
JULY 2017 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 23
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.
TM
DONATE YOUR CAR!
Cars | Trucks | Vans | Boats | Real Estate
Cars • aTrucks •deduction. Vans •All Boats Real Estate Call 7 days week. Tax transfer•documents handled. Live Operators on hand 7 days a week Free pick-up. Running or not in most cases. 888-694-5250 Tax deduction • All| www.thefallenheroes.org transfer documents handled Free pick-up • Running or not in most cases
888-694-5250
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 24 • DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • JULY 2017
The Combs Team Professionals You Can Count On
Nancy
This is Rockcliff Country
Joe
Call the Combs Team
®
92 5 -9 8 9 -6 0 8 6 www.TheCombsTeam.com
This month I wanted to focus on what I consider to be the average Danville 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 2,500 sq. ft. gems was $1,112,000, selling at a stratospheric price of $436 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 a Danville Family Home has increased somewhat compared to last year. Current average sales price stands at $1,261,000 compared to $1,226,000 in 2016. This represents a price increase of 3% over the previous year. Dollars per square foot decreased $474 to $467 for an -1.5% drop. Why the discrepancy? Looking at size of home sold, you will see that last year they were smaller by 86 square feet. It’s typical that larger homes sell at lower price per square foot. It’s also quite common for average home size to vary from year to year. For the year a total of 150 Family homes have been sold. Inventory remains low with only 37 similar properties currently on the market. Last year 55 homes remained so inventory is down about 33% from last year. Danville Family Homes are selling at a rate of 25 per month. Current inventory sits at about 1.5 month’s supply. When you consider days on market stand at 19, less than one month on average, and inventory continues to shrink we should not be surprised to learn Danville is still a very hot market. Everyone asks, “Are we in a Real Estate bubble?” Eleven years have passed since the beginning of the big crash 4 bed 2-3 Bath Homes Sales Danville Jan.1-Jul. 16 which bottomed late 2011. Year $ Sq. foot Avg. Price Size sq. ft With the recent run up in 2012 $ 344 $ 785,000 2350 home prices, we are about 2013 $ 353 $ 950,000 2691 11% ahead of those 2006 2014 $ 418 $ 1,022,000 2450 prices. So, if you bought 2015 $ 451 $ 1,155,000 2589 your home in 2006, on 2016 $ 474 $ 1,226,000 2656 average you’ve earned 2017 $ 467 $ 1,261,000 2738 about 1% per year on
Alamo 10 Acre Estate
Alamo Custom Luxury Home
P 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.
Danville Single Story
SO
LD
Four bedroom single story. Like new with view. Priced to sell $1,299,000
the investment. This doesn’t Danville Sales Price sound like much of run up or a $1,350,000 bubble does it? If you bought $1,250,000 your home anytime during $1,150,000 the downturn, you’ve done $1,050,000 Avg. Price significantly better enjoying $950,000 robust rebound appreciation. $850,000 So just for the fun of it, $750,000 1 2 3 4 5 6 where would prices be if the Years 2012-2017 market had appreciated a mere 3% per year during those past eleven years? Figuring a simple 33% increase from our 2006 base, our average price would stand at $1,478,960. Average price per square foot would be $579. Will Danville 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 Danville 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 Danville and Alamo Real Estate, please visit our website at www.thecombsteam.com. Visit our Facebook Page “Real Estate Services for Danville, Danville and more.” Average Sales Price
DANVILLE REAL ESTATE: FAMILY HOME PRICES UP 3%
D EN
ING
lt Mu
iple
e Of f
r s!
Stonegate 4 bedroom, 3.5 bath with 1 bedroom downstairs. Pool/spa, BBQ, putting green. Priced to sell $2,000,000
Alamo Single Story
L SO
Alamo Jones Ranch
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
Alamo Crest Beauty
D
One story backs open space. 3 bedroom, large workshop. Nancy and I represented the buyer. We have more buyers.
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
lt Mu
iple
e Of f
r s!
Luxury Mediterranean Resort Living in Alamo. We represented the buyer and the seller. We have more buyers. Price $3,195,000. J. Rockcliff Realtors 15 Railroad Ave., Danville CA. 94526