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July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 1
& JULY 2021
REBOUNDING RAPTORS FACE UNCERTAIN FUTURES By Jody Morgan
Back from the brink of extinction, peregrine falcons have generated an extensive following of non-profit organizations and citizen scientists. Bald eagles, once listed as endangered, are flourishing. But populations of some of California’s 30 raptor species continue to decline. Threats to their survival disrupt the balance of the entire ecosystem. Predatory birds target pests, not pets. Carrion-eaters function as nature’s sanitation corps. Preserving their ability to serve their time-honored roles is both economically and environmentally compelling. People have been enraptured with raptors since time immemorial. “In manifestations ranging from mummies of falcons in the pyramids of Egypt to gold and turquoise owls fashioned by ancient artisans of Peru, raptors have permeated the traditions of all civilizations over many thousands of years,” Noel and Helen Snyder write in introducing Raptors of North America. Who knew spraying DDT across the country following World War II posed a widespread environmental hazard? Killing mosquitoes and other insects was the immediate goal, but then Peregrine Falcons and Bald A young Cooper’s Hawk poised to pounce exhibits a Eagles began laying eggs with shells so thin that parent birds crushed them as they sat on their nests. By watchful predatory presence. Photo by Greg Cochran. the mid-1960s, there were no breeding pairs of Peregrine Falcons east of the Mississippi. In 1975, only 324 pairs nested in the entire continental US. The Bald Eagle population reached an all-time low of about 800 birds in the early 1960s. Once the general use of DDT was banned on December 31, 1972, several non-profit groups dedicated themselves to ensuring the survival of these iconic birds. The come-back stories of both species are cause for celebration. In 1970, California had only two nesting Peregrine pairs in the entire state. Today,
See Raptors continued on page 11
TAKE THE QUIZ! HOW WELL DO YOU KNOW ALAMO AND THE SURROUNDING AREA?
ENTER THE CONTEST TO WIN $50 AT ACE HARDWARE
This summer, pick up a copy of the newly-published book Historic Tales of Alamo by Beverly Lane with Sharon Burke, and learn more about the history of Alamo and the surrounding area. The book is available at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley in Danville and Ace Hardware stores in Alamo and Blackhawk. Use the book as reference to answer the 20 questions on page 19, and enter for a chance to win a $50 gift certificate to Ace Hardware!
Orchards filled the area in the 20th century with walnuts and fruit tress like this plum orchard covering the valley floor. Mount Diablo can be seen in the background.
Sharon and Beverly will be signing books at Alamo Ace Hardware from 2pm to 4pm, Saturday, July 31st. Stop by to get an autographed copy and meet the authors. Fill out the contest entry anytime in July and drop it in the contest box at “The Kitchen” located at Alamo Ace Hardware. Entries must be received by noon on Saturday, July 31st. A winner will be drawn from all correct entries at 4pm on the 31st.
See Quiz continued on page 16
Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA
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Arriving in the Sycamore Valley in 1862, the Charles Wood family settled on a property off of Camino Tassajara (now part of Danville). They named the land Woodside Farm. The family raised crops and livestock, and have maintained some of the original land and equipment, continuously farming for 159 years. A “quarantime” project by members of the fourth, fifth, and sixth generations of the Wood family was to plant a crop of barley with the end vision of making beer. Planting half an acre of barley in January and then reviving a 1960 era harvester that hadn’t run in over 25 years was part of the experience. The harvested barley will be put in sacks, taken to Alameda to be malted, and then the family will begin the brewing process.
The Editors Serving the communities of Alamo, Diablo, and Danville
Volume XXI Number 7
3000F Danville Blvd. #117 Alamo, CA 94507 Telephone (925) 405-6397 Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher Editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News Instagram:@AlamoandDanvilleToday
Volume XII Number 7
The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do not necessarily reflect that of The Editors. The Editors is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.
PAGE 2 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
BOULEVARD VIEW
www.yourmonthlypaper.com | Instagram: @Alamoanddanvilletoday | #atdtnews
By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
We’ve all been kicked down hard in one way and at one time or another. For many, the last year and a half has felt frustrating, overwhelming, and a little scary. And yet, there is this glimmer, this newness of seeing our world through a different lens than we did pre-pandemic. The saying, “The comeback is always stronger than the setback,” came across my reading and had me pause. It’s true. A setback can feel like a ton of bricks smothering us, but then when we reflect, the obstacle gives us the opportunity to improve our condition, try new things, build our resilience, and come out on top, better than before. Many folks are discovering, or rediscovering, the outdoors -- camping, visiting our national parks, hiking, and bicycling. New businesses are sprouting up and taking that great leap forward to realize and share their dreams and visions. I encourage you to check out and learn more about the newcomers as Join us for our 4th annual afternoon of well as support our wonderful long-standing businesses in town. wine, plentiful appetizers, and live music You’re Invited featuring the CoolTones Big Band. While the annual Danville 4th of July Parade was rescheduled to Labor Day weekend (9AM-noon, to an afternoon of Sips, Snacks and some Jazz When: Sunday, July 18, 2021 | 3:30 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. Saturday, September 4th), we may find it a little new and different -- in a good way. Sometimes, if we JULY 18 | SAN DAMIANO Where: San Damiano Retreat do the same thing, the same way, over and over, the repetition becomes monotonous, and we don’t have 925.837.9141 710 Highland Dr. | Danville, CA full appreciation for the event. Learn more about the great plans for this year’s re-envisioned event at Reservations: Call 925.837.9141 or SanDamiano.org www.srvkiwanis.org/parade. I hope to see you there! Cost: $40 per person Please see the Compost Giveaway ad above, and use these warm days to refresh and rejuvenate your yard and garden by picking up some free compost. Create a planting oasis that can thrive during this time of water restrictions. Several years ago, we ripped out three separate lawn areas in the front yard and turned them into a haven of natives and succulents. While the project was spurred by some dying trees, the end result is fantastic and uses much fewer resources than when the area was covered in lawn. The rescheduled 2020 Tokyo Olympics, which will be held this July 23-August 8, will showcase athletes who have persisted and persevered as their training and plans have morphed to the changes we’ve all faced. The event won’t be the same, but I look forward to tuning in to how the planners are thinking outside of the box to make it happen and also to how the athletes have pushed their boundaries to soar to the top. Will the setbacks set a slew of new records? I am excited to find out! Setbacks are inevitable. However, every setback makes you more resilient. Something inside of you changes; you suddenly become a bit more competitive and stubborn. We live in a great area with many opportunities. The year 2021 can be one of resurgence, optimism, rediscovery, new focus, and new energy. To get where we want to go, we need to put one foot in front of the other. As I recall from a Tri-Valley Trapper jingle in the “Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town” holiday special of my youth: “Put one foot in front of the other/And soon you’ll be walking out the door/ If you want to change your direction/ If your time of life is at hand/ Well don’t be the rule, be the exception/A good way to start is to stand.” I hope you stand up and step out to a wonderful summer.
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July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 3
ALL ABOARD AS ‘TOTALLY TRAINS’ RETURNS!
The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is happy to announce that model trains have returned for their ninth year. This popular event is open now at the Museum, located at 205 Railroad Ave., Danville. The main layout features a village scene with models of Danville and San Ramon’s present and past buildings. The newest addition is the Danville Presbyterian Church, which was located on Front Street from 1876 to 1932. The trains will travel over trestles, bridges, and through a mountain. The Totally Train’s Family Pass costs $15 and is available for purchase. The pass allows you to visit the exhibit as many times as you like. The Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM-1PM and Sunday noonPM 3 . Contact the Museum at museumsrv.org, or call 925-837-3750 for more information.
FREE ADMISSION!
July 2nd: Mike Amaral’s California Beach Boys
Tribute band to the Beach Boys bringing precise harmonies, dynamics, and excitement.
July 16th: The Sun Kings
Performing the music of The Beatles with driving rhythm, spot-on arrangements and vocal harmonies.
FOOD DONATIONS NEEDED
Food insecurity for many is becoming more dire. Stepping up and helping out with food drives are members of St. Timothy’s Church, located at 1550 Diablo Rd., Danville. The food drives support the Monument Crisis Center (MCC). MCC is a community-based non-profit family resource center which offers food, resources, and referrals to low-income individuals and families in order to help them become stable and secure in the community. Upcoming food drives will be held July 11th and August 8th from noon-1pm. Of particular need are tuna, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetable, pasta, canned meats, rice, beans, oatmeal, soups, ethnic foods, and baby food. In addition, pet food and diapers are appreciated. Items in glass containers cannot be accepted. Monetary donations can also be made directly to MCC via www.monumentcrisiscenter.org/donate. Your contributions are deeply appreciated. Learn more about the drives at www.sainttimothysdanville.org.
July 30th: Fog City Swampers Tribute band to Creedence Clearwater Revival, inspiring all to sing and dance.
*PENDING ANY COVID RESTRICTIONS OR CANCELLATION* Bring blankets, chairs, family, and friends. If you require an accommodation to participate in this event, please contact call (925) 313-2181 at least 72 hours prior to the event date. This program is not sponsored by the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. Approval to distribute flyers is a community service and does not imply endorsement.
EUGENE O’NEILL FESTIVAL RETURNS THIS FALL
The Eugene O’Neill Festival returns this fall with a combination of live and virtual events. The festival centerpiece will be a filmed production of O’Neill’s first great drama, Beyond the Horizon. In addition to the film, a weekend of live performances of the play is in the works for late September. The play was the playwright’s first to appear on Broadway and won him the first of his four Pulitzer-prizes. In the play, young Robert Mayo dreams of adventure and a life beyond his family’s farm, but an unexpected romance shakes up the family and alters the future of the farm forever. “The fields, fences, and rustic, natural beauty of Tao House and the surrounding Las Trampas Wilderness will provide a fantastic backdrop for our filmed production,” says EONF Artistic Director Eric Fraisher Hayes. “I believe the unique setting will make for a very special experience.” EONF will host a special virtual preview of Beyond the Horizon with Eugene O’Neill scholar and production dramaturg Beth Wynstra on August 18th. The festival will feature the debut of a lively theatrical lecture entitled “Eugene O’Neill: 51 Plays in 51 Minutes” by Artistic Director Hayes. Having directed 27 of O’Neill’s 51 plays, Hayes’ presentation promises to be an informative and playful overview of the playwright’s entire body of work in less than an hour. The show will travel to Ireland to be featured at the Eugene O’Neill International Festival of Theatre in October. Visit www.eugeneoneill.org or find them on Facebook and Instagram for more details and information.
PAGE 4 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
ONE BITE CAN CHANGE YOUR LIFE
TICK TALK
Ticks are all around us. They can be found on trails, lawns, yards, and more. The Mt. Diablo Interpretive Association recently hosted an informative presentation on them and the Lyme disease some carry. Lyme disease is prevalent in Northern California, yet most practicing physicians don’t recognize the signs and symptoms of the disease. You have to be your own best warrior. Learn how to prevent tick bites, recognize the ticks that are prevalent in Contra Costa County and the disease they carry, and what to do if you are bitten. Carolyn Degnan, COO of LymeDisease.org will talk about the steps you need to know to protect yourself, your family, and your pets from this debilitating disease. Carolyn is a longtime resident of Contra Costa County and has two daughters who were bitten by ticks in the San Ramon Valley. Both daughters contracted Lyme disease and multiple co-infections while hiking and trail riding. Spare some time for this hour-long recorded Zoom presentation to learn more. Visit https://bit.ly/3wwvEJw. If you have any question you would like directed to Carolyn, she can be reached at cdegnan@lymedisease.org.
MOVIES UNDER THE STARS
ALAMO
Contra Costa County Public Works, Alamo Parks & Recreation, with support from the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council invite you to enjoy Movies Under the Stars at beautiful Livorna Park. This summer, two family-fun films will be featured. Onward will be shown on Friday, July 9th and Toy Story 4 shown on Friday, July 23rd. Livorna Park is located at the intersection of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue in Alamo. Showtime is at 8:15PM. Bring family, friends, chairs, blankets, and flashlights. If special accommodations are needed to participate in this event, please contact Alamo Recreation Staff at least 72 hours prior to the event date. Alamo Recreation Staff can be reached at 925-313-2181 or by visiting www.cccounty.us/alamoparksandrecreation.
DANVILLE
Moonlight Movies are back at the Town Green, located at 420 Front Street in Danville. July 16th features Lion King. Preregistration is required. Sign up at apm. activecommunities.com/danvilleca/Home and reference activity code 29555. On July 30th, the movie Onward will be shown. Preregister with activity code 29556. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, and snacks. Crafts and activities begin at 6:30PM and the movie will begin around 8:15PM. For questions, call 925-314-3400.
SONS IN RETIREMENT (SIR)
LAS TRAMPAS BRANCH
SIR Las Trampas Branch #116 is pleased to announce the re-starting of in-person luncheon meetings to be held at Boundary Oak Golf in Walnut Creek beginning Monday, July 19th. The speaker will be Coach Patrick Walsh who will talk about the benefits of high school sports programs. For those of you who are retired or semi-retired men looking for social involvement and perhaps becoming a member of the SIR branch to form friendships and participate in numerous activities (golf, bridge, pickle ball, book groups), please visit sirinc2.org/branch116/ or call 925-322-1160.
SAN RAMON VALLEY BRANCH
Looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining SIR San Ramon Valley Branch #128. There are monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. Additionally, members have fun participating in a variety of Zoom related activities including investing, book groups, fantasy football, technology, wine tastings, and more. Members are also now participating in various outdoor activities including golf, bocce ball, bicycling, and hiking. The July meeting will be a virtual event via Zoom. The speaker will be Mr. Geoffrey Woglom, Professor of Economics emeritus at Amherst College. During his career, Geoffrey has been a consultant to the Federal Reserve Board and the International Monetary Fund. He will be updating the group on “the Federal Debt and Deficits.” Be ready for an interesting presentation, and question and answer session. The presentation will be held Wednesday, July 21st at 11AM. To access the virtual meeting as a guest, please email membership@sir128.com. To learn more about the Retirement branch, please visit www.SIR128.com.
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THE STORY OF THE OLD MINT IN SAN FRANCISCO
A FREE VIRTUAL PROGRAM
On July 15th at 11:30AM, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley’s Third Thursday Program will offer a free virtual presentation on the Old Mint in San Francisco. The museum is proud to have Katherine Petrin, an Architectural Historian and Preservation Planner in private practice in San Francisco, as the speaker. Kathrine currently serves as the Project Manager for the planning phase of the U.S. Old Mint Restoration Project in collaboration with the California Historical Society and the Mayor’s Office of Economic and Workforce Development. To say that the Old Mint is an interesting and historic building would be an understatement. Consider the following: the Mint was built in 1874. It was the first Federal building in San Francisco. California had only been a state for 24 years. The construction of the Mint was a large step towards making Californians feel part of the nation. It was a source of great pride to the young state. The Mint exceeded all expectations. In 1837, the US produced $83M in gold and silver coins, $50M of which came out of the SF Mint. In 1906, the Mint was the only financial institution to survive the earthquake. It opened (under armed guard) three days later. This saved the city from economic chaos. In the 1930’s, 30% of the United States gold reserves were held in the Mint’s ground floor safe. Katherine will also discuss the future of this historic and irreplaceable building. Please join in for an interesting and entertaining discussion on the history and future of the San Francisco’s Old Mint which is located at 5th and Mission Streets and is a designated National Historic Landmark. To attend this free online presentation, please visit museumsrv.org and go to the “Events section,” or call 925-837-3750. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville. The Museum is open Tuesday-Saturday from 10AM-1PM and Sunday noon-3PM.
SCULPTURE IN THE GARDEN"
AT THE RUTH BANCROFT GARDEN WITH AAUW JULY 28 & 29, 5:30 – 6:30PM
The Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) has reserved two evenings at the world-famous Ruth Bancroft Garden, Walnut Creek, to experience their 27th annual sculpture show. The Garden will be open to ticket-holders only. Please join the fun! The annual art show and sale marries stunning sculptural art with natural sculptural beauty of the Garden. This year's show will feature the works of over 20 renowned Northern California artists. Your $40 ticket includes: Wine sampling offered by Sky Terrace Vineyards • A welcome packet with a self-guided tour brochure with map and current blooms descriptions • Quilt and garden basket raffle opportunities • Refreshments thanks to event sponsor Crafts for a Pretty Penny • Support for Scholarships for local women. Pick your date and order tickets online at daw-ca.aauw.net/bancroft, or purchase tickets via cash or check at East Bay Flower Company in the Danville Livery.
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July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 5
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Celeste Pacelli Broker Associate 925.395.1511 | DRE 01862387 celeste@celestepacelli.com celestepacelli.com
PAGE 6 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
SUMMER CONCERT SERIES
ALAMO
Contra Costa County Public Works, Alamo Parks and Recreation, with support from the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council present the 2021 “Alamo Summer Concert Series” at Livorna Park. Livorna Park is located at the intersection of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue in Alamo. This three-concert series features live music from a variety of genres. Concerts will take place on Friday evenings from 6:30-8:30PM and feature a schedule full of dynamic bands including: ~ July 2nd - Mike Amaral’s California Beach Boys (Beach Boys tribute band) ~ July 16th - The Sun Kings (Beatles tribute band) ~ July 30th - Fog City Swampers (Creedence Clearwater Revival tribute) Bring family, friends, chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner, and enjoy music in the park. If special accommodations are required to participate in this event, please contact Alamo Recreation Staff at least 72 hours prior to the event date. You can reach the Alamo Recreation Staff at 925-313-2181, or visit www.cccounty.us/alamoparksandrecreation.
DANVILLE
Music in the Park will kick-off the summer with Britnee Kellogg performing at Oak Hill Park, located at 3005 Stone Valley Rd. in Danville, on Saturday, July 24th at 6PM. Preregistration is required. Sign up at apm.activecommunities. com/danvilleca/Home, and reference activity code #29557. The Sun Kings will take the stage Saturday, August 24th at 6PM. Reference activity code #29558 for pre-registration. Bring your blankets, lawn chairs, hats, and snacks, and join in for an evening of music and dancing. For questions about the events, call the Danville Community Center at 925-314-3400, or email recreation@danville.ca.gov.
“SWING FOR CHARITY” GOLF TOURNAMENT
The Knights of Columbus of St. Joan of Arc Church in San Ramon are proud to announce that registration for their 15th Annual “Swing for Charity” golf tournament has opened! The tournament, scheduled for July 19th, will take place at the Crow Canyon Country Club in Danville. The tournament will feature 18-holes of golf, pre-golf and on-course contests, and a catered BBQ lunch. Land Rover of Livermore has generously donated a 2021 Range Rover Velar as the prize for a hole-in-one. The proceeds from the tournament will benefit the RotaCare Pittsburg Free Medical Clinic at St. Vincent de Paul (a partnership between St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County and RotaCare Bay Area), St. Joan of Arc Church, and other local charities. The free medical clinic, built and developed by St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County, was opened in 2011 and has provided over 13,500 medical visits for those without insurance. “This last year has been difficult for so many people, and we are finally now able to get out and renew friendships while raising money for families that need help,” said Roberto Piccioni, Grand Knight of Council #9206 at St Joan of Arc Parish in San Ramon. “Charity is a core value of the Knights of Columbus, and we’re so pleased to work with our friends at St Vincent de Paul to host this fun event and support this very worthy cause.” Those interested in registration or sponsorship can visit knights-golf-tournament.eventbrite.com/ to sign up. The Knights of Columbus is an international organization founded in 1882 and has over 1.9 million members around the globe, each dedicated to providing charitable aide to those in need. The Knights of Columbus strive to promote the values of charity, unity, fraternity, and patriotism. For almost 140 years, they have provided impactful aide to those in need and their families. St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County (SVdP) has provided safety-net services in the county for over 57 years, serving 180,000 people annually and distributing over $1M of direct financial assistance and over $1.7M of in-kind aid. More than 750 SVdP volunteers and a small staff lead operations in Contra Costa County including the SVdP Family Resource Center in Pittsburg, 29 branches, and three Thrift Stores. One of the largest charitable organizations in the world, SVdP is an international, nonprofit, Catholic lay organization of more than 900,000 men and women who voluntarily join together to grow spiritually by offering person-to-person service to the needy and suffering in 155 countries on five continents.
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ROTARY CLUB OF ALAMO TO SPONSOR PAPER SHREDDING AND E-WASTE RECYCLING EVENT ON JULY 10, 2021
The Rotary Club of Alamo will sponsor a paper shredding and E-Waste recycling collection event on Saturday, July 10th. The event will take place from 9AM to noon in the parking lot of the New Life Church, located at 2501 Danville Blvd, in Alamo. The cost of paper shredding is $10 per box, no limit. The cost for E-Waste will be $10 per item. Televisions and electronics (except no plasma or projection TV’s), computers, and components will be accepted. The event will not be accepting any appliances, mattresses, tires, batteries household waste, or paints. If you have any questions, please contact Joan Grimes at (925) 323-7772. Since its founding 50-years ago, the Rotary Club of Alamo has been supporting numerous local and international projects. The Club currently has 42 members. The Club meets on the second and fourth Wednesdays at 12:15PM at Forli’s Restaurant in Alamo. On the first and third Wednesdays, the Club meets from 5:30-6:30PM at Maguey’s Restaurant in Alamo. Bring a friend, and join in for Alamo Rotary at night!
ASSISTANCE LEAGUE THRIFT SHOP WAGES “REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE” CAMPAIGN!
The dedicated member volunteers at the Assistance League® Thrift Shop at the Way Side Inn, located in Lafayette, have issued a call for donations and ask that you bring items that you no longer use to 3521 Golden Gate Way in Lafayette. As our lives continue to gravitate toward “the new normal,” venture through your pantries, linen closets, garages, and storage sheds to gather those items that no longer serve you. Imagine the square footage you will recover! The well-known landmark store now boasts additional space for sorting, storing, pricing, and displaying much needed items to boost thrift shop sales, which in turn will fund Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s hands-on philanthropic programs. Please drop off your donations Tuesday through Saturday, from 10AM to 3PM, or until the collection bins are full. The apron-clad volunteers look forward to receiving such gently used, clean donations such as men’s/ women’s/children’s clothing, active wear, shoes, handbags, accessories (such as hats, belts, and scarves), and designer label wear. Likewise, household goods and decorations, dining and kitchen goods and cookware, tools, framed art and paintings, fabric/yarn and sewing notions, wheeled suitcases, jewelry, and books are most appreciated. While dropping off your donations, you might consider touring the shop, just for future reference. To learn more, please visit assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley.
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July Article Alamo Today and Danville Today News: “0” Days on the Market: Gone Before You Know It Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News | editor@yourmonthlypaper.com July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 7 In this month’s article, I’m going to address the amount of single family detached properties in the greater Danville area (which includes: Alamo, Blackhawk, Danville, Diablo and San Ramon) that log “0” days as active on the multiple listing service (referred to below as the MLS) or just a very few days (1‐3 days) on the market before going pending and eventually closing escrow. In this month’s article, I’m going to address the amount of single family detached properties in the greater Danville area (which includes These properties are either premarket/coming soon sales or properties that received an Alamo, Blackhawk, Danville, Diablo, and San Ramon) that log “0” daysimmediate offer once reaching the active status on the MLS. The quickness of these sales as active on the multiple listing service (MLS) or just a very few days (1-3 days) on the market before going pending and eventually closingamplifies the impression of low local inventory. escrow. These properties are either premarket/coming soon sales or properties that received an immediate offer once reaching the active status on the MLS. The quickness of these sales amplifies the impression Last month, we saw national US headlines focusing on an “inventory problem.” The amount of of low local inventory. homes on the market were not meeting buyer demand. When we took a deeper dive into our Last month, we saw national US headlines focusing on an “inventory local area, it showed that more homes had actually been sold at the beginning of 2021 than problem.” The amount of homes on the market were not meeting buyer during the same period in the previous 3 years (2018,2019,2020). So, there was actually more demand. When we took a deeper dive into our local area, it showed that more homes had actually been sold at the beginning of 2021 than during local inventory, but our demand level had increased from buyers coming from urban/city the same period in the previous three years (2018,2019,2020). So, therelocations due to the pandemic. Interestingly enough, we found that there were close to twice was actually more local inventory, but our demand level had increased as many properties marked in each of the pending and sold columns, then the amount of active from buyers coming from urban/city locations due to the pandemic. Interestingly enough, we found that there were close to twice as many properties listed properties. Below, we will see that this disparity between active and pending/sold marked in each of the pending and sold columns, than the amount of active listed properties. In the table below*, we see that this disparity between properties is due to premarket home sales and properties being swooped up immediately upon going on the market as active. See table*: active and pending/sold properties is due to premarket home sales and properties being swooped up immediately upon going on the market as active. rd
“0” Days on the Market: Gone Before You Know It
By Joe Gatti
From May 23 to this writing, 256 detached properties were sold. Properties listed by area Town/Area Current Current Current Sold Sold: 0 Days Sold: 1-3 include Alamo 41, Blackhawk 12, Danville 104, Diablo 3, and San Ramon 96. From those homes, Active Pending Properties: From on Market Days on Properties Properties May 23, 2021 from May 23, Market from there were 27 properties that sold with “0” days logged on the MLS. That comes to roughly 10.5% 2021 May 23, 2021 of the sold properties in our entire area. We can call this category premarket/coming soon sales. A Alamo 26 31 41 5 5 property can sell premarket if buyers are eagerly waiting for more properties to become available, 15 12 2 1 and a seller will allow for viewings and/or disclosure inquiries during the listing preparation period. Blackhawk 9 54 107 104 10 11 This preparation period can include pre-market inspections, staging consultations/furniture placement, Danville Diablo 5 3 3 0 0 cosmetic improvements (new carpet, paint, landscaping), which all leads to eventual photography. Of the properties that ultimately went active, 29 properties sold between the first 1 to 3 days. San 39 85 96 10 12 Those figures come out to roughly 11.3% of sold properties. A property selling this quickly likely Ramon 133 241 256 27 29 had eager interest prior to market, was priced correctly or below perceived market value, is most Total Properties often “move in” ready with little to no fundamental upgrading to be done, has no “surprises” because pre-market inspections have been performed for buyers to openly review, and the home From May 23 resemblesrd to this writing, 256 detached properties were sold. By areas: Alamo 41, previously sold properties in the area that eager buyers and Blackhawk 12, Danville 104, Diablo 3 and San Ramon 96. From those homes, there were 27 their agents are anxiously waiting to become available. properties that sold with “0” days logged on the MLS. That comes to roughly 10.5% of the sold The perceived inventory issue is actually explained deep within our local housing data. When pre-market sales (10.5%) and 1-3 day active sales (11.3%) are combined. properties in our entire area. We can call this category premarket/coming soon sales. A It accounts for 21.8%, or a little over one-fifth, of properties in our local market never reaching mass online exposure or their exposure is for a few short days, at best. That’s 56 properties that quickly went to the pending column. The perception of current low local inventory is more an issue of extreme buyer competition and how agents and their buyers will search for any clues of where the next sought-after listing will come up and the rush to be the first ones to it, with an extraordinary offer in hand, and the wish of placing it into contract immediately. I hope you found this article helpful. I’ve been serving our real estate community for close to 10 years. Ron Gatti, my business partner and father, has been a fulltime real estate professional for over 40 years, all in the greater Danville area. We both are Associate Brokers with Compass and work out of the 15 Railroad office in downtown Danville. If you have any real estate questions during this extraordinary time or have questions about this article, please email GattiRealEstate@gmail.com or call Joe Gatti at 925-588-3590. Our services are here for you! *Data taken from the MLS during specific dates and under the criteria mentioned within article.
Recent Activity in Your Community! As Danville Natives, We Know Danville and the San Ramon Valley Sold $200,000 Over Asking
Sold! Rep Buyer
New on Market!
357 Cordell Drive, Danville
413 Verona Ave, Danville
101 Via Serena, Alamo
4 Beds | 3 Baths | 2,666 Sq Ft | $2,495,000 Westside Danville location on one of the most soughtafter streets. Located on a flat 1/2 acre, the future home possibilities are endless. A short distance from the Iron Horse Trail, award-winning schools, and Downtown Danville.
3 Beds | 1 Baths | 997 Sq Ft | $1,508,000 Negotiated the winning offer for our buyer in a competitive 5+ offer situation. A fantastic opportunity in Westside Danville. A block from the Iron Horse Trail, SRV High School, and downtown Danville. We can’t wait to see what our buyer does with this property!
4 Beds | 3.5 Baths | 3,183 Sq Ft | $2,400,000 Single story home in one of Westside Alamo’s most coveted neighborhoods. The ample backyard features a pool and built-in barbeque area. Moments from the Iron Horse Trail.
Call us regarding how our Compass Concierge and Bridge Loan programs can help you!
Joe Gatti Broker Associate 925.588.3590 gattirealestate@gmail.com DRE 01914487
Ron Gatti Broker Associate 925.596.1972 gattirealestate@gmail.com DRE 00623995
gattirealestate.com Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.
PAGE 8 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
Alamo Municipal Advisory Council Presents the
2021 Movie Under the Stars Movie starts at 8:15 p.m. Livorna Park in Alamo
(Located at the corner of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue)
Admission is Free
SUMMER NIGHT Friday, July 9th
BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT Friday, July 23rd
*PENDING ANY COVID RESTRICTIONS OR CANCELLATION* Bring blankets, chairs, family, and friends. If you require an accommodation to participate in this event, please contact call (925) 313-2181 at least 72 hours prior to the event date. This program is not sponsored by the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. Approval to distribute flyers is a community service and does not imply endorsement.
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CATCH UP ON SOME “Zs”
ADJUSTING TO NORMALITY By Jaime Kaiman, Monte Vista High, sophomore
What do picnics, swimming, and sunshine all have in common? To me, these are some of the things that come to my mind when I think of the beautiful month of July! The smell of barbecues and the scorching temperatures are also sure-signs of knowing it’s July. Recently, guidelines have been loosened, and people are now able to resume some of the things they were able to do pre-pandemic. So far, the heat this summer has been extreme. Each day, the first step I take outside feels as though I’m being hit with a gargantuan blanket of warmth. Many people are looking for a way to escape the heat. I know a lot of people who are going on vacation. This is a huge change from last summer when no one had a solid way to stay safe from the pandemic, and everyone was still stuck in lockdown inside their homes. Now, people who had planned vacations last year can finally go on those trips. With holidays like the Fourth of July, many people are booking trips to go celebrate with family they haven’t seen in some time or to enjoy a spectacular fireworks display somewhere else. Many people are now feeling more comfortable dining outside again. Personally, I have been a little nervous to go back to doing regular things again. I even felt uneasy about doing little things, such as stopping in a store to grab an item. Now that I am fully vaccinated, though, I feel a whole lot better about adjusting back to normalcy. One thing that I’m excited to be able to do again is to hang out with my friends. We have been talking a lot about things we want to do together once we’re all fully vaccinated. However, it’s difficult to get everyone together over the summer, which seems ironic. Since people are going out of town at different times, it’s hard to find a date that works for everyone. All I know is that at some point, my friends and I will find the perfect time to reunite. All in all, this July looks a whole lot different than last July. It’s cool to be able to see the world slowly return back to the way it was before. It’s also important to remember that adjusting back to normality takes time, and everyone goes at a different pace.
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ST. ISIDORE SCHOOL
By Carol Bender, Principal A TIME TO CELEBRATE!
July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 9
7 Things You Must Know Before Putting Your Danville-Alamo Home Up for Sale Danville-Alamo - A new report has just been released which reveals 7 costly mistakes that most homeowners make when selling their home, and a 9 Step System that can help you sell your home fast and for the most amount of money. This industry report shows clearly how the traditional ways of selling homes have become increasingly less and less effective in today's market. The fact of the matter is that fully three quarters of homesellers don't get what they want for their homes and become disillusioned and - worse - financially disadvantaged when they put their homes on the market. As this report uncovers, most homesellers make 7
deadly mistakes that cost them literally thousands of dollars. The good news is that each and every one of these mistakes is entirely preventable. In answer to this issue, industry insiders have prepared a free special report entitled "The 9 Step System to Get Your Home Sold Fast and For Top Dollar". To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1844-941-0941 and enter 2500. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW to find out how you can get the most money for your home.
By the end of this school year, we had many reasons to celebrate! To our good fortune, many of our celebrations allowed us to be in person and attended by loved ones. The faculty and staff feel a sense of accomplishment from the initial return to on-site instruction in October, to observing the annual 8th-grade festivities, and to gathering as one for the end of the year celebration amidst this year of great challenge. Our celebration continued by honoring This report is courtesy of The Jackson Group-EXP Realty DRE #01763819. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2020 our pastor, Father Gerard Moran, for his th 50 Jubilee. Prior to the last day of school, SRV GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY the students acknowledged him with an outdoor Mass, recognizing his many The San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society attributes. Unfortunately, after 16 years of dedication to our parish and school, (SRVGS) was organized in 1985 to provide its Father Moran will be retiring. Many know Father Moran over the years by members with resources, assistance, and educational attending Mass, commemorating special occasions and community events, or opportunities that help them successfully research simply taking a late-night stroll down Hartz Avenue. He has offered words of their ancestry. The group publishes a monthly newshealing and support to those grieving the loss of a loved one, as well as words letter and offers monthly meetings of small groups of joy and wisdom to those celebrating a special event or milestone. Father with common interests to discuss their specific areas Moran has been a blessing to this community, and his steadfast presence will of research. SRVGS also provides resources ranging from a large selection of certainly be missed. Serving as pastor of a parish with a school requires a unique skill set and reference books to information on local genealogical libraries. Classes are also allotment of time. Under his support and guidance, St. Isidore School has offered for the beginning researcher and those interested in genetic DNA. You are invited to join the Tuesday, July 20th, 10am ZOOM meeting with a flourished, being the largest Catholic school in the area, serving close to 650 presentation by Tina Beaird on Scottish Genealogical Research. Her lecture students. Fr. Moran remains rooted in the mission of Catholic education. is broken down by topic, and it will cover online resources for vital records, We pray his next adventure, retirement, is filled with relaxation and reflection. military records, maps and directories, crime and punishment, and emigraHe will always be in our prayers, and we look forward to his visits. tion. Her talk will also cover Scottish naming conventions and farm names, A WARM WELCOME and how we can use those for a more targeted search. Tina will cover sites like We extend a warm welcome to our new pastor, Fr. Matthew Murray, who ofst GenUKI, Rampant Scotland, ScotlandPlaces, SCAN Network, the National ficially joined our parish community on July 1 . Fr. Murray is one of 11children, Records Office, and the National Library of Scotland. All are free websites originally from Brentwood, and was ordained on May 26, 2017. Currently, he has been serving at Divine Mercy Parish in Oakland. Our school looks forward available to you from ‘across the pond.’ Tina is the owner of Tamarack Genealogy and is the to meeting him and creating a wonderful partnership. Genealogy/Local History Librarian at the Plainfield GOD BLESS AMERICA Nothing feels more like summer than celebrating the Fourth of July with Public Library. She lectures nationally on military research, Scottish records, and archival preservation. family and friends. This patriotic holiday is a great American tradition that She is First Vice President of the Illinois State Generecognizes our country’s freedom and independence. We hope this year some alogical Society and is a Director for the Northern of the traditional celebrations can return for your family’s enjoyment. Illinois Historical League and the Illinois State HistorEnjoy a great rest of the summer! ical Records Advisory Board. Tina volunteers her time with several local historical and genealogical societies, VETERAN SERVICE ORGANIZATIONS scanning and indexing historic records. Occasionally, Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) meet at the Veterans Memorial Building she finds time to research her own family tree, which she has been pursuing of San Ramon Valley, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville, except as otherwise noted. • American Legion Post 246 meets on the first Wednesday of each for over 25 years. To become a member of SRVGS, visit srvgensoc.org and click on the “Join month at noon. For information, visit americanlegionpost246.org, email SRVGS” tab on the left side of the Home Page. To attend as a guest, please commanderpost246@gmail.com, or call 925-272-8480. • Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 75 of San Ramon Valley meets on the email your request to president@srvgensoc.org. third Wednesday of each month at 7:30PM. For information, visit vmbsrv.org or email info@vfwpost75.org. NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH • Viet Nam Veterans of the Diablo Valley meets on the first Thursday Neighborhood Watch is a community action of each month at 5PM at Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, and problem-solving program, and one of the Danville. For information, visit vnvdv.org/index.html or call 925-838-6445. most effective means available for resolving issues • Marine Corps League Detachment 942 meets on the fourth Saturday within your community. Through organized of each month at 8:30AM. For information, visit mcldet942.org. problem-solving activities, your block can remove crime from your neighborhood • Blue Star Moms Detachment 101 meets on the second Wednesday of each and address any community issues that concern residents. month at 7PM. For information, visit bluestarmoms.org or call 925-587-4037. The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff will be hosting meetings via • Bay Area Navy Nurse Corps Association holds two general meetings in Zoom. If you have any questions or are interested in finding out more inforJune and December. For information, visit nnca.org or email bannca@nnca.org. mation, please email the Community Services Unit at csu@so.cccounty.us.
PAGE 10 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
LOCAL LEADERS ARE ASKED TO IDENTIFY SITES FOR 1000’S OF NEW HOMES IN THE SAN RAMON VALLEY
A LOOK AT THE REGIONAL HOUSING NEEDS ALLOCATION (RHNA) By County Supervisor Candace Andersen
It has been said that owning a home signifies the culmination of the American Dream. For many, owning or even renting a home in our community is not a realistic option. In the last year, the median price for a house in Contra Costa County has jumped more than 30%, bringing it to $990,000. In Danville, the median is up to $1.75 million, and in Alamo, it is $2.4 million. Multiple offers, well above the asking price, are being made on homes for sale. Housing policy has been rigorously debated in our County and across the State for many years now. The consensus among many Bay Area residents and experts is that there simply is a scarcity of housing and not nearly enough affordable housing for young families, retired adults, teachers, and many other important members of our local workforce. We’ve seen significant legislation from Sacramento pushing for higher residential density, specifically near transit centers, as well as efforts to reduce the amount of single-family zoning and the ensuing suburban sprawl that many believe to be harmful for the environment. Back in 1969, forecasting the need to get a handle on housing in a rapidly growing state, California came up with a housing law that requires all cities, towns, and counties to plan for the housing needs of residents, regardless of income. The Regional Housing Needs Allocation (RHNA) was established. The California Department of Housing and Community Development (HCD) determines the total number of new homes the Bay Area needs to build—and how affordable those homes need to be—in order to meet housing needs. This is the RHNA. The RHNA process and updating of Housing Elements takes place every eight years, with the last cycle being 2015 to 2023. HCD has assigned the Bay Area 441,176 new units in the upcoming 2023-2031 cycle, with a requirement that they be built for residents in the following income levels: 25.9% Very Low, 14.9% Low, 16.5% Moderate, 42.6% Above Moderate. The Association of Bay Area Governments (ABAG) is then tasked with coming up with a methodology to distribute to each city and county their fair share of the region’s 441,176 new units. The RHNA is required to meet the following objectives: 1. Increase housing supply and mix of housing types, with the goal of improving housing affordability and equity in all cities and counties within the region. 2. Promote infill development and socioeconomic equity; protect environmental and agricultural resources; encourage efficient development patterns; and achieve greenhouse gas reduction targets. 3. Improve intra-regional jobs-to-housing relationship, including the balance between low-wage jobs and affordable housing units for low-wage workers in each jurisdiction. 4. Balance disproportionate household income distributions (more high-income allocation to lower-income areas, and vice-versa) 5. Affirmatively further fair housing Following ABAG’s allocation, each local government must then update the Housing Element of its General Plan to identify sites where housing could be built, along with the policies and strategies necessary to meet the community’s housing needs. The cities and counties are not required to actually build the new housing units, just rezone parcels and implement policies to demonstrate that developers could come in and build at higher densities and satisfy the RHNA allocations. For RHNA 2023-2031, a major focus for ABAG has been combating discrimination and working to rid segregation in housing. While these are certainly noble and desirable goals, using this methodology shifted exponentially higher housing allocations to Contra Costa County and its cities in ways that will be very challenging to meet. The numbers allocated to Contra Costa County and its cities for the 2023 to 2031 cycle are quite staggering. In the Draft Allocation approved by ABAG in May on a split vote (I voted against it because I disagreed with the methodology used), unincorporated Contra Costa, which includes Alamo, has been allocated 7,645 new housing units. Of those, 2,082 are for very low income, 1,199 are for
www.yourmonthlypaper.com | Instagram: @Alamoanddanvilletoday | #atdtnews low income, 1,217 are for moderate income, and 3,147 are for above moderate income households. This is 5.59 times as high as the 2015-23 allocation which was a total of 1,367 housing units. Danville also saw its numbers shoot up from being required to plan for 557 new housing units in the 2015-23 cycle to 2,241 housing units in the current cycle, with a similar proportion of affordability. San Ramon went from 1,417 housing units in the previous cycle to 4,716 in the 2023-2031 time frame. Not surprisingly, many jurisdictions do not approve of their draft RHNA allocation. Contra Costa County and many cities are appealing their allocations to ABAG. During the 2013 ABAG cycle, there were eight appeals and three were upheld. All appeals received by July 9th will be heard by ABAG at a public hearing. August 30 is the deadline for comments on appeals submitted, and ABAG will hold hearings sometime in September and/or October to consider appeals and comments received. At the end of this year, after taking into consideration the results of the appeals process, the ABAG Executive Board will adopt Final Allocations at an accompanying public hearing. Regardless of the outcome of those appeals, more land will need to be identified for the building of future homes in every Bay Area community. In January of 2023, Housing Element updates are due to the State. The County and cities have already begun the process of looking at various parcels where more housing can be built. It is anticipated that the Board of Supervisors will have a Study Session in November to look at the proposed housing sites inventory, and a draft Housing Element will be presented to the County Planning Commission for review next February. Danville has already begun engaging the community in the process through their website www.danville.ca.gov/888/Housing-Element-101, and a series of virtual community workshops are scheduled for Thursday, July 8, Thursday, August 19, Tuesday, August 31, and Saturday, September 18. For more information on ABAG and RHNA, upcoming meetings, or to join the RHNA mailing list, visit abag.ca.gov. 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 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.
DANVILLE POLICE OFFER ‘EXCHANGE’ ZONE
Residents who purchase items via online services such as Craigslist 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 constantly video-recorded space. With proximity to police headquarters and video recording, the goal is to have an atmosphere of safety and assurance for would-be buyers while dissuading criminals from using online merchandising for criminal purposes. To learn more, contact Sargent Ron Hoekwater at (925) 314-3700 or rhoekwater@danville.ca.gov.
TOWN TALKS FOR DANVILLE RESIDENTS
Danville residents have a new way to stay informed as Mayor Renee Morgan has begun a monthly livestream broadcast called “Town Talks.” The Zoombased program will take place at 9AM on the first Friday of each month. The program is intended to provide a safe way for residents to hear from their community leaders and get up-to-the-minute information on the issues and topics facing Danville. Viewers will have the opportunity to ask questions in the chat and have them answered in real-time. Questions can also be asked in advance by emailing towntalks@danville.ca.gov. Following the program, residents can either view the entire program or short snippets from each episode on the Town of Danville’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/user/TownofDanvilleCA. Each month, Mayor Morgan will feature new guests and topics of interest to the community. To get more information or register for upcoming talks, visit www.danville. ca.gov/798/Stay-Connected. Look about half-way down the page for the current link. You can also contact Assistant to the Town Manager Diane Friedmann at (925) 314-3378, or email her at dfriedmann@danville.ca.gov.
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July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 11
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Raptors continued from front page
925-451-2443 25 Alamo Square, Alamo Next to Alamo Cafe
there are 400 breeding pairs. Absent from all but eight California counties hippievibetribe.com in 1975, Bald Eagles now nest in at least 41 of the 58 counties, with one pair living near San Pablo Reservoir. “The Return of the Pine Canyon Peregrines” is beautifully documented in a video narrated by Joan Hamilton (available at www.audiblemountdiablo.com, thanks to Mount Diablo Interpretive Association in partnership with Save Mount Diablo). Founded in 1975, the Santa Cruz Predatory Bird Research Group focused on Peregrine Falcon restoration projects. Recently hired by Save Mount Diablo, Seth Adams learned about their work and gathered support to bring Peregrines back to Mount Diablo. A successful cross-fostering program was initiated in 1989. Closely related Prairie Falcons nested in cliff sites historically occupied by Peregrines. Intrepid rock-climbing volunteers switched Peregrine chicks (the timing had to be perfect) for Prairie chicks. The second set of Peregrine chicks fostered by Prairie Falcon parents returned as adult birds to raise their young at the western edge of Mount Diablo. In 2015, recognizing that Peregrines require privacy during the critical cycle of courting, setting up a “scrape” residence and bringing up their young, adjacent parks agreed to close access to the Pine Canyon area annually from February 1 - July 31. The Peregrine Team - now numbering 60 volunteers provides information that hopefully turns would-be trespassers into Peregrine protectors. Founding member Staci Hobbet enjoys the entire process of monitoring the birds as they incubate the eggs and feed their young. She describes the magical moment when they fledge. “Most exciting and stressful is watching those babies take their first flight. They essentially fall forward out of the nest, never having flown before, and it’s an 800-foot drop.” The mortality rate for young birds can be as high as 60-80%. Some tumble from the nest too soon. Others may become a Great Horned Owl’s dinner. Although loss of habit tops the list of threats to raptors, Peregrines have learned to adapt to urban living, exchanging traditional cliff dwellings for skyscrapers, bridges, and even the UC Berkeley campus Bell Tower. They serve their communities by controlling over-abundant pigeons and starlings. Experts from the US Department of Fish and Wildlife dismiss claims like the May 15, 2021 Wall Street Journal headline: “The Majestic Bald Eagle is Back -- And Wants to Eat Your Little Dog.” In a 2008 interview, retired eagle management specialist Mike Jacobsen explains, “There used to be stories about eagles carrying off babies and little kids, and none of that has ever been documented. They can pick up and carry four or five pounds, maximum, and actually fly off with it.” Unlike coyotes, eagles still avoid human contact and won't attack a dog walking beside its owner. Jacobsen insists, “Eagles don’t hunt cats and small dogs.” Rarely, a confused juvenile bird may go after a dog running free on a beach only to find it too large to lift. Nevertheless, once in flight, eagles, aided by wind currents and their own momentum, have been known to carry much heavier loads such as the huge sticks used to build their nests. California Department of Fish and Wildlife Statewide Raptor Conservation Coordinator Carie Battistone concurs. “I have mostly had reports of people concerned with raptors taking/killing their pets but only a couple of people actually saying it happened.” Carie continues, “For instance, a red-tailed hawk (one of our larger hawk species) typically takes Red-tailed hawks caught courting by Greg Cochran. If you don't look up, you'll miss it.
See Raptors continued on page 18
PAGE 12 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
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VALLEY VIGNETTE By Beverly Lane
DANVILLE HOTEL REMEMBERED
The Danville Hotel is one Danville building which is recognized as historic by everyone. The old hotel is now painted red and houses the Basque Boulangerie. There, you get great food and a view of Hartz Avenue and the Veterans Hall from the hotel’s front porch. North of the Boulangerie is San Ramon Valley Historical Society’s brass plaque, placed on a brick pedestal and updated in 2019, which commemorates the hotel. And south is the restored McCauley House. The hotel itself was originally a white clad building on the east side of Railroad Avenue. It was built across from the Danville railroad station land after the Southern Pacific (S.P.) train arrived in 1891. The November 3, 1892, Contra Costa Gazette reported that “Danville can at last boast of a restaurant. Travelers can be lodged and fed.” Mary and George McCauley’s family ran the hotel. They were Irish immigrants who originally moved to the valley in 1868. John Hartz had subdivided his former ranch property between the S. P. station and town buildings to the east and the McCauleys purchase four lots along Railroad Avenue, building the hotel and a home. Their Folk Victorian town residence sat next to the hotel. A family of six daughters and three sons managed both the hotel and a 162-acre ranch east of Danville. Originally, the Danville Hotel faced west. A two-story building, it had eight to ten rooms and one bathroom shared by guests upstairs. For decades, it served railroad passengers and personnel, and traveling salesmen. Mary McCauley prepared meals and was known as a good cook, with her pies highly regarded. Patrons and locals called the hotel by other names over the years, including the Railroad Hotel, the McCauley Hotel and Restaurant, and the McCauley Hotel and Grill. During the 19th century, Danville’s main downtown was located on Front Street. As San Ramon Creek peeled off one side of the street, new businesses and homes were built on Hartz Avenue which became the main thoroughfare. Dependence on the train declined as automobiles and trucks moved people and goods on newly paved roads. In 1911, Mary Jane and Sarah Ellen McCauley (Parker) bought two lots on Hartz Avenue. These two daughters were deeded the Railroad property in 1920, and in 1927, both the hotel and McCauley house were moved to the Hartz lots, facing east. The sisters managed the hotel until the 1930s when they leased the property to German chef, Paul Zeibig. Zeibig opened a restaurant which provided fine dining and served alcohol. He advertised the Danville Hotel Restaurant as the place to go and drew patrons from as far away as San Francisco. According to some stories, occasionally he would walk around Hartz Avenue in his chef ’s hat. World War II and gas rationing ended easy drives for those who wanted to come to Danville for a rural excursion and good meal. In 1952, the lively Russel Glenn leased the hotel and purchased it in 1956. He worked to make the hotel a tourist attraction, painted it red and white, and added a Ghost Town patio and facades on store fronts. He lived upstairs at the hotel himself. After trying to sell the property, he decided instead to expand, purchasing the entire block and building retail businesses around the patio, all with a western theme. He built a covered wagon entrance to the Danville Hotel and hosted live music. In 1965, he added the large Silver Dollar Banquet Room on the Railroad Avenue side of the property. Full of ideas, Glenn promoted Danville as a historic destination with the phrase “Old Century Leisure, New Century Convenience.” He joined several others in describing the town as the “Confederacy of Danville” which was pursuing a “planned retrogression.” Glenn also famously put up a billboard in San Francisco which stated “Where the Hell Is Danville?” This same question appeared on his large, red-striped menus which provided a two-paragraph answer to the query. It read, “Danville, located at the foot of Mount Diablo in Contra Costa (County of the opposite coast) was established in the pioneer days, on the ‘Public Road to San Jose’ - the main route from the gold fields to the City of Monterey. Stages and wagons, as well as horsemen and foot travelers, broke their journey at this point for food and refreshment and for overnight lodging. The coming of the railroad and modern conveyances eliminated the horse-drawn vehicles and ended a picturesque era - but now as in the past, the Danville Hotel has its doors open and welcomes the traveler with food and refreshment, in an authentic 1858 setting.” The next owners were Jerry and Aileen Carter who renovated the property and dubbed it the “Danville Hotel Territory.” They transformed the restaurant into the popular Danville Hotel Restaurant and Saloon which re-opened in 1976. For over thirty years, the Danville Hotel Territory block provided various businesses in Old Town Danville, as ownership changed several times. Both the hotel and McCauley residence have been designated as Danville heritage resources. Today, the prizewinning “Danville Hotel” development with retail, restaurant, and residential spaces covers the block, and happily, the restored Danville Hotel and McCauley House remain. Sources: Irma and Jim Dotson, Downtown Danville; Irma Dotson San Ramon Branch Line of the Southern Pacific; Contra Costa Gazette; The History of the Danville Hotel and McCauley House (brochure produced by Nearon Enterprises); museum archives.
COMMUNITY ENCOURAGED TO JOIN HOUSING WORKSHOP SERIES
DANVILLE IS MANDATED TO PLAN FOR AT LEAST 2,241 NEW HOMES
As part of an ongoing community engagement plan to seek the community’s input in Danville’s 2022-2030 Housing Element Update, the Town is encouraging more people to join one of a series of virtual community workshops to learn more about Danville’s mandated Housing Element Update and participate in the process. In the 2022-2030 update, the Town is mandated by the State to accommodate a minimum of 2,241 new homes. The workshops are aimed at helping the community understand exactly what Danville is facing in the State mandated Housing Element Update and to allow residents to ask questions. The first Housing Element workshop was held on June 12. Town staff and housing consultant, Diana Elrod talked about the issues facing Danville and answered questions from participants. The Town is encouraging community participation and input so that the final plan balances the mandate to accommodate growth while preserving Danville’s history and character. The workshops will each discuss the Regional Housing Needs Assessment (RHNA) process, state law requirements, and the Housing Element policy document that identifies where and how Danville will accommodate existing and projected future housing needs for people of all income groups. Workshops are scheduled for Thursday, July 8; Thursday, August 19; Tuesday, August 31; and Saturday, September 18. Visit www.DanvilleTownTalks. org to learn more about the Housing Element Update, sign up for updates, complete surveys, add comments, and register for any of the other workshop dates. For additional information, contact Public Information Officer Nicola Shihab at (925) 314-3336 or nshihab@danville.ca.gov.
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July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 13
DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP W H E R E R E A L E S TAT E I S S T I L L P E R S O N A L
JUST LISTED
ACTIVE
PENDING
PENDING
24 ALTA HILL WAY, WALNUT CREEK 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1670 SF, 0.33 ACRE LOT
550 RYAN TERRACE, SAN RAMON 3 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 1,791 SF
166 MADELIA PLACE, SAN RAMON 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,368 SF, 0.17 ACRE LOT
151 KELL COURT, ALAMO 5 BEDS, 3 BATHS, 2,932 SF, 0.41 ACRE LOT
CALL AGENT FOR PRICE
OFFERED AT $988,000
OFFERED AT $1,039,000
OFFERED AT $1,749,000
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047
ALISON PETERSEN | 925.984.7214
SUZY PECK | 925.200.2988
KORY MADGE | 925.366.9899
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
SOLD
2567 SHADOW MOUNTAIN DRIVE, SAN RAMON 4 BEDS, 3 BATHS, 2,238 SF, 0.20 ACRE LOT
1745 SAN MIGUEL DRIVE, WALNUT CREEK 5 BEDS, 3 BATHS, 2,310 SF, 0.07 ACRE LOT
176 LA SONOMA WAY, ALAMO 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,824 SF, 0.55 ACRE LOT
110 SAINT ALICIA COURT, ALAMO 4 BEDS, 3 BATHS, 2,925 SF, 0.48 ACRE LOT
SOLD FOR $1,650,000
SOLD FOR $1,800,000
SOLD FOR $2,051,000
SOLD FOR $2,300,000
MEREDITH & BONNIE KUMMELL | 925.984.1344
BRYAN HURLBUT | 925.383.5500
SUZY PECK | 925.200.2988
BONNE WERSEL | 510.304.3303
SOLD
SOLD - REPRESENTED BUYER
SOLD - REPRESENTED BUYER
SOLD - REPRESENTED BUYER
218 CASTLE CREEK PLACE, ALAMO 6 BEDS, 4 BATHS, 4,196 SF, 0.50 ACRE LOT
145 LAWNVIEW CIRCLE, DANVILLE 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1542 SF, 0.04 ACRE LOT
3275 GLORIA TERRACE, LAFAYETTE 4 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 2,393 SF, 0.28 ACRE LOT
110 SAINT ALICIA COURT, ALAMO 4 BEDS, 3 BATHS, 2,925 SF, 0.48 ACRE LOT
SOLD FOR $2,950,000
SOLD FOR $912,000
SOLD FOR $1,500,000
SOLD FOR $2,300,000
BRYAN HURLBUT | 925.383.5500
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047
BONNE WERSEL | 510.304.3303
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047
ALISON J. PETERSEN 925.984.7214
BONNE WERSEL 510.304.3303
BRYAN HURLBUT 925.383.5500
DANI O’CONNELL 925.786.2176
REALTOR® | DRE#01177737
REALTOR® | DRE# 01173288
REALTOR® | DRE# 01347508
BROKER ASSOCIATE DRE# 01892167
DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA 925.878.8047 925.482.4142
EVA ELDERTS 925.726.9409 REALTOR® | DRE# 02039328
REALTORS® DRE# 01979180 / 01979181
JOHN FONDNAZIO 925.817.9053
KORY MADGE 925.366.9899
MARGY LYMAN 925.963.6380
REALTOR | DRE# 01938194
REALTOR | DRE# 01345227
REALTOR | DRE# 02067680
®
DRE# 01882902
WWW.DUDUM.COM
®
DANVILLE
®
WALNUT CREEK
MEREDITH & BONNIE KUMMELL 925.984.1344 925.980.9952
SCOTT & FONIA HUMPHRIES 925.298.2249 925.998.4444
REALTORS® DRE# 00905114 / 01364056
REALTOR® / BROKER DRE# 02078065 / 01019063
LAMORINDA
BRENTWOOD
SIERRA TAHOE
SUZY PECK 925.200.2988 REALTOR® | DRE# 01224695
Distinctive Properties
©2021 The information herein was obtained by sources deemed to be reliable by Dudum Real Estate Group. Dudum Real Estate group has not independently verified the information contained herein and therefore, assumes no legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyer should investigate any matters or items disclosed, identified or about which they have concerns to their own satisfaction. DRE Lic. 01882902
PAGE 14 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
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QUICK TRIPS By Linda Summers Pirkle VETERAN SERVICES BRING THE “OFFICE” TO USS HORNET - NASA RECOVERY Fifty-two years ago, the world sat glued to their TVs. YOU
Many, if not most, starred at their black and white sets while Neil Armstrong took humanity’s first steps on the Moon. That moment in time was a result of not just the efforts of a few but many who remain lost in history, even though their efforts led to perhaps one of the greatest moments in human history – a true testament to what the human race can accomplish when they join together to attain a monumental goal. On a recent Saturday afternoon, I was treated to a tour onboard the USS Hornet. A decorated WWII era aircraft carrier, Hornet played an important role in the Apollo 11 and 12 flights by recovering both lunar missions after splashdown. One of the Hornet Museum’s key objectives when it opened in 1998 was to educate and inspire future generations with regards to the epic Apollo program with a focus on the recovery of the spacecraft, astronauts, and moon rocks. If not for the dogged efforts of those looking to build a phenomenal floating museum on the USS Hornet, docked in the former Naval Air Station in Alameda, certain items critical to the American space program would have been lost to history. As my son would declare – the story of recovery of some of those treasures reads like a Clive Cussler novel – tying history to current events with our own Dirk Pitt in Robert (Bob) Fish, author, historian, and Trustee of the USS Hornet Sea, Air and Space Museum. Did the returning astronauts carry any moon dust germs that could be harmful or possibly deadly to On July 24, 1969, President Nixon welcomes humans, animals, or plants on Earth? the Apollo 11 astronauts back to Earth aboard No one knew. Because of the potential the USS Hornet. problems, NASA implemented a 21-day quarantine protocol of anything or anyone who came into contact with lunar dust. The astronauts, their equipment ,and the moon rocks needed to be isolated right after splashdown. An airtight Mobile Quarantine Facility (MQF) was created and was based in a specially outfitted Airstream trailer. Upon splashdown, the astronauts of lunar missions Apollo 11, 12, and 14, were quarantined in MQFs. In 1998, the whereabouts of only one MQF was known, and it was at the Smithsonian Institution’s National Air and Space Museum (NASM). Bob Fish, on his own mission to build a world class exhibit, started his own investigation to find the missing MQFs and investigate he did. No matter what leads Fish followed, all were dead ends in finding the missing MQFs. He did, however, find a small note On July 24, 1969, after the epic walk on the moon, in an obscure file in the archives the Apollo 11 astronauts relax inside the NASA MQF of NASM with the name Kansas onboard the aircraft carrier USS Hornet. Cosmosphere and Space Center (KCSC) in Hutchinson, KS, with no context. A call to the curator of KCSC prompted a search in their various storage facilities, and nothing was found. Bob then asked if there were any old restoration facilities somewhere near their premises. After some negotiation, the curator’s secretary drove five miles outside of town to the KCSC wood shop and asked if there were any Airstreams on location. One of the old timers said yes, but it was at the back of the facility, under a tarp, and it hadn’t been moved for many years. Viola! One flip up on a corner of the tarp revealed the Apollo 14 logo on its side where it had been placed 30 years before. Covered in a thick layer of dust and home to more than a few birds, the important historical artifact was recovered and restored, becoming a building block for the priceless artifacts and memorabilia on display at the USS Hornet Sea, Air and Space Museum. The historic Apollo 11 mission to the moon launched July 16,1969, and splashdown occurred on July 24,1969. The USS Hornet is open Friday through Monday from 10AM-5PM. The address is 707 Hornet Ave. Alameda. The phone number is 510-521-8441. Linda Summers Pirkle is a travel writer and long-term Danville resident. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas, email Coverthemap@gmail.com.
The Contra Costa County Veterans Services Office is removing barriers by opening a virtual office space. The virtual Veterans Office can give you close to an in-person experience. Veterans can learn about and apply for benefits, access VA health care, receive referrals for PostTraumatic Stress Disorder therapy, and much more. Visit the office website at www.contracosta.ca.gov/ vets during open office hours for one-on-one assistance. Hours of operation are Mondays through Thursdays from 9am to noon and 1pm to 4pm, and on Fridays 9am to noon. Staffing the virtual office are Veterans Service Manager Sidney Jones, an Air Force Veteran, and Veteran Services Representative Buck Carmichael, a Marine Corps Veteran. Both have long-time experience connecting vets to critical services. For more information, please call the Veteran Services Office at 925-313-1481.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED
Many of our neighbors cannot afford to feed and clothe themselves or their families. Volunteer opportunities for individuals, families, and groups to serve the community are available at White Pony Express. White Pony Express, founded by Dr. Carol Weyland Conner in 2013 and headquartered in Pleasant Hill, is a nonprofit that rescues fresh surplus food from supermarkets, restaurants, and farmers markets. This nutritious food is then delivered free to organizations that feed the hungry. In addition, high-quality clothing, children’s toys, and books are distributed free of charge. Hundreds of volunteers make White Pony Express possible. They volunteer because they believe in the mission and know they are helping others who have urgent needs at this critical time in their lives. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit whiteponyexpress.org/volunteer or call Mandy Nakaya, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at 925-818-6361 or email Mandy@whiteponyexpress.org.
WALNUT CREEK GARDEN CLUB
You are invited to visit meetings and to become a part of the Walnut Creek Garden Club! You’ll find friendly members, with varying interests including: • Creating and improving gardens with new plants and techniques • Supporting garden education in local schools • Supporting local environmental charities with community grants • Learning about the fun of arranging flowers • Volunteering to help local gardens, fundraisers, and plant sales The group meets the second Monday of each month at 10AM, September through June, at The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Dr., Walnut Creek. If you are interested in joining the Club or for more information, please visit www.walnutcreekgardenclub.org.
ACTION POOL REPAIR Serving Alamo & Danville Since 1979!
925.820.3640 www.actionpoolrepair.com yourpoolman@hotmail.com Contractor Lic# 978033-C53
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July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 15
HELPING OUR NATIONAL FORESTS IN CALIFORNIA
By Vicki Koc, Alamo Women’s Club
It’s summertime, and California once again faces wildfire season. Our forests are beautiful, help birds and other animals, and keep topsoil in place as well as provide timber for our needs. Unfortunately, in the past 20 years, fires have burned thousands of acres of our National Forests – over 100,000 acres as of 2018 and more since then. Did you know there is something you can do after a fire to help re-forest burned areas? Consider a contribution to the Penny Pines Reforestation Program. Penny Pines is a statewide conservation program, begun in 1941 by the Sportswomen’s Association of San Francisco. Nearly all states now have similar programs. The Sportswomen were very forward-thinking and set up Conservation Agreements with the National Forest Service for individuals and groups to donate $68 towards re-planting of seedlings. At the time, $68 covered planting of about 10 acres. Today, the minimum donation of $68 covers not quite one acre. More money can be donated, but donations must be in multiples of $68. Over the years, word spread about Penny Pines. More than a million dollars has been donated since 1941. In real terms, that is over two million trees planted on 88,00 acres of National Forest land. Many groups contribute including Boy and Girl Scouts, garden clubs, and women’s clubs. The Alamo Women’s Club, which began donating in 1961, has donated each year, sometimes with multiple donations in a year, and has donated more than 100 times! Other local California Federated Women’s Clubs have similarly donated. As we enter peak fire season, consider donating to Penny Pines as a worthwhile effort to help reforest after the fires are out. You can even make memorial requests, and you can designate to the National Forest of your choice. Each year, you receive a Penny Pines certificate with the forest locale noted on it. The majority of National Forests in California are in the program. Apply for your individual or group Conservation Agreement at Regional Penny Pines Coordinator, USDA Forest Service, 1323 Club Drive, Vallejo, CA 94592. Simply state you are interested in making a donation, and supply your information for individual, organization, or memorial donation. Learn more at www.fs.usda.gov/detail/angeles/workingtogether/partnerships/?cid=STELPRDB5160436. Help bring new seedlings into the National Forests through this quality conservation and revitalization program!
HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATES HONORED AT MILITARY SWEARING-IN CEREMONY
Oath of Enlistment for their respective branch of service. Enlistees who are entering the US Marine Corps are David Chee, Joshua Rosado, Paiom Zargar, Arturo Escobosa, and John McGee. The enlistee entering the US Navy is Anthony Carbone. Enlistees entering the US Army are Bennett Keefe and Gavin Gannod. Enlistees entering the US Air Force are Joseph Powada, Anthony Green, and Owen Lynch. The five graduates who are entering US Military Academies were also recognized. They include Jackson Collier-US Naval Academy; and Timothy Greenhouse, Olivia Romo, Lily Holtmeier, and Charles Lee-US Military Academy. At the conclusion of the formal ceremony, Major General Ronald Lowe, US Army (ret.) and Dennis Giacovelli, President of the Viet Nam Veterans of Diablo Valley, presented each enlistee with a Veterans Memorial Building challenge coin. These recruits also received Certificates of Appreciation from local civic leaders. Danville Vice Mayor Newell Arnerich served as Master of Ceremonies. The event started with the singing of the National Anthem by Cynthia Lee and was followed by an invocation by Hugh Keith, Chaplain VFW Post 75. Renee Morgan, Mayor of Danville proceeded with brief remarks, welcoming the local graduates and thanking them for their commitment to serve. The Blue Star Moms, parents of those currently serving in the military, had a welcome table at the event and spoke with the parents of the newly enlisted service members. For more information, contact eardell@aol.com or visit www.vmbsrv.org.
Graduates entering military service from San Ramon Valley high schools were honored at a special “Swearing-In” ceremony recently held at the Town Green in Danville. The graduates were welcomed by the keynote speaker, Brigadier General Erich Novak of the US Air Force ,who noted it was an honor to recognize these young men and women who have volunteered to serve their country in the branches of the military that they have chosen. He then called up each group of new recruits to stand and recite the Pictured left to right: Charles Lee, Lily Holtmeier, Olivia Romo, Joshua Rosado, Arturo Escobosa, David Chee, Paiom Zargar, Joseph Powada, Anthony Green, Owen Lynch, Gavin Ganot, Bennett Keefe, and Anthony Carbone.
PAGE 16 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
CLIP NOTES
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By Jody Morgan
Although tales concerning creation of our nation’s first flags may be fabricated from hearsay, the dyes that colored the earliest extant remnants are well documented. Plants utilized to produce the reds and blues of Revolutionary War era banners grew in colonial gardens. Often pieced together from whatever textiles were at hand, the flags displayed the ingenuity and independent spirit of the crafters. The Flag Resolution passed by the Marine Committee of the Second Continental Congress on June 14,1777, read: “Resolved, that the flag of the United States be thirteen stripes, alternate red and white; that the union be thirteen stars, white on a blue filed, representing a new constellation.” Neither arrangement nor shape of the stars was specified. According to family legend shared a century later by her grandson, Betsy Ross designed the original “Stars and Stripes” during the summer of 1776. Records confirm she was commissioned to make flags for the Pennsylvania fleet at least a month before the Flag Resolution passed. Possibly the banner unfurled at Rome, New York’s Fort Schuyler (originally Fort Stanwix) in the face of besieging British forces was the first example of the “Stars and Stripes” flown in battle. On August 2, 1777, Lieutenant Mellon of the Ninth Massachusetts Regiment arrived with reinforcements, supplies and a newspaper reporting passage of the Flag Resolution. W. Pierpont White, President of the Mohawk Valley Historic Association, relates: “Fort Schuyler was without a flag. Sunday, the 3rd became memorable by the patriotic supplying of this want. From a soldier’s white shirt, a woman’s red petticoat, and blue cloth of Captain Abraham Swartwout’s camlet cloak, our emblem of red, white, and blue was pieced together by the women
See Flags continued on page 20
Quiz continued from front page 1) What Bay Miwok Indian tribe lived in Alamo and Danville for 5,000 1) _____________________________________________________________ years before Europeans and Americans arrived? 2) What Spanish Mission grazed cattle in Alamo and Danville in the 2) _____________________________________________________________ 1700s and early 1800s? 3) Who was the American attorney called a “shrewd land fiend” who 3) _____________________________________________________________ ended up owning most of the Alamo and Danville Mexican rancho land in the 1850s? 4) What group came to today’s Hap Magee Ranch Park every summer 4) _____________________________________________________________ from 1911 to 1941? 5) What Alamo farmer was called the “father of the walnut industry” for his 5) _____________________________________________________________ innovation of grafting English walnut shoots to native black walnut rootstock? 6) What famous image was created with fertilizer and grass seed on an 6) _____________________________________________________________ Alamo hillside in 1979? 7) What three story building was built on the border of Danville and 7) _____________________________________________________________ Alamo (just north of today’s Fairmayden Lane) and was the largest building in Alamo and Danville from 1860 to 1868? 8) What farm product was shipped from Alamo and Danville through 8) _____________________________________________________________ Martinez, mostly to Great Britain, where it was sold on the Liverpool Exchange? 9) What upscale restaurant was located in Alamo from 1969 to 1984, 9) _____________________________________________________________ credited with inventing the stuffed baked potato? 10) What family provided five postmasters for Alamo from 1905 to 1960? 10) ____________________________________________________________ 11) What famous author tutored four boys on a ranch in Tassajara and 11) ____________________________________________________________ mailed his letters from the Alamo post office? 12) Alamo landmark the Henry Hotel stood on the corner of Danville 12) ____________________________________________________________ Boulevard and Alamo Square Drive for 100 years from 1854 to 1954. What was the original name of the Henry Hotel? 13) What 1930 Howard Hughes movie featured World War I aerial 13) ____________________________________________________________ dogfights over the hills of Alamo and Danville? 14) Whose leadership brought the Southern Pacific Railroad to Alamo 14) ____________________________________________________________ and Danville in 1891? 15) What electric railway, dubbed the “Toonerville Trolley,” brought 15) ____________________________________________________________ freight and people from Saranap to Diablo from 1914-1924, traveling down the east side of Danville Boulevard and Hartz Avenue and out Diablo Road? 16) What species of tree was planted in the 1920s on both sides of 16) ____________________________________________________________ Highway 21 (today’s Danville Boulevard) from Martinez to the Alameda county border in memory of World War I soldiers? 17) What well known Alamo civic group, still in existence, hosted and 17) ____________________________________________________________ staffed the Alamo library from 1917 until 1961 when the San Ramon Valley library opened in Danville? 18) What fate befell James Marengo’s Livorna Road winery in the 1920s? 18) ____________________________________________________________ 19) What famous Arabian show horse called Alamo home from 1954 to 19) ____________________________________________________________ 1973, and is the sire and grandsire of numerous champions? 20) What three-story wartime structure was built behind Alamo School 20) ____________________________________________________________ in 1942 with a barn raising community effort? Name_____________________________________________ Email______________________________________________Phone_____________________ Sharon Burke and Beverly Lane are the sole judges of the correct answers to this contest. Prize will be drawn from all entries with 100% correct answers.
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July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 17
IN SAN RAMON 3181 Crow Canyon Pl. next to Sprouts
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Visit our website for news and information at alamohardware.com
PAGE 18 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
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Raptors continued from page 11
small rodents the size of gophers and mice, and eagles typically take small mammals the size of hares or jack rabbits.” Red-tailed Hawks, Barn Owls, Great Horned Owls, and many other birds of prey are natural rodent exterminators. Research proves raptors are a more effective and a far less expensive means of controlling rodent populations than poisons that work their way through the food chain killing predators and pets. Mark Browning began the Barn Owl/Rodent Project at a 100-acre vineyard 30 miles south of Sacramento in 2011. In the first two years, the owls took 25,682 rodents at a cost of $.25 per rodent compared to $8.11 per rodent trapped. In Santa Barbara County, the rampant California Ground Squirrel population plagued flood control levees. Matt Victoria, Agricultural Biologist, writes (Santa Barbara County Agriculture and Weights and Measures, Spring 2014): “Two full-time employees would apply 50lbs. of rodent bait a week along the levee’s entire length at a cost of $6,500 per month.” Installation of 74 raptor poles begun in 2002 at a cost of $275/pole and labor of Peregrine Team volunteers gather in February to learn how to safeguard Peregrine Falcons raising one hour/pole brought Red-tailed hawks in immediately to solve their young in caves on Pine Canyon Cliffs. (Photo Courtesy of MDIA P-Team). the problem. “Today, the Santa Maria levees are mostly squirrel-free. The risk of secondary exposure of wildlife to rodenticides is gone, and the cost savings to the County are substantial.” When rodents became resistant to the first generation of anti-coagulant rodenticides (ARs) introduced in the 1950s, more toxic second-generation versions (SGARs) came into use in the 1970s. Poisoned rodents eaten by predators, including cats and dogs, suffer the same painful demise. Lisa Owens-Viani will never forget seeing Cooper’s Hawk chicks fall from a Berkeley nest she was monitoring as a Golden Gate Raptor Observatory (GGRO) volunteer in 2011. “I was horrified,” she recalls. “One hawk bled out on the sidewalk in front of some little kids, which was just terrible.” The other ones drowned in a neighbor’s kiddie pool. Tests confirmed rodenticide poisoning. Allen Fish, GGRO Director, describes Lisa’s response. “Lisa calls --she’s spilling over in anger and resolution. ‘I’m going to dedicate myself to stopping the (expletives deleted) use of rat poison, and I’m not stopping till this can't happen anymore. Are you with me?’” Fish hesitated momentarily to gather his thoughts. “I hear a hundred raptor stories a month -- it is rare that someone asks me to make a commitment.” In his head, he hears Rachel Carlson launching her Silent Spring campaign, while Lisa waits for his answer. “And I know that I have one answer to give
See Raptors continued on page 24
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TECHNOLOGY MATTERS
RANSOMWARE FACEBOOK SCAMS By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.
Apparently, there is no shortage of creative ways to separate people from their money. There are two new, related exploits I will bring to your attention in this article. The first concerns a new way to become infected with ransomware, and the second is about Facebook. I have never been a frequent Facebook user. I created my personal account many years ago, and it has sat unattended. Ordinarily, that would be OK. I created and setup my account in a different era, when the bad guys hadn’t figured so many ways to create problems. Grudgingly, I recently rejuvenated my account and rejoined the Facebook community so I could communicate with a group of swimmers. Last weekend, many of the old friends I know began messaging me to advise that I was attempting to (re)‘friend’ them. The weird thing was they were already my friend on Facebook, so what was this all about? A little online research explained the process. The bad guys have begun to troll through Facebook user accounts looking for those left “public.” When an account is public, everything is exposed, including the list of everyone you have “friended.” Remember my account that was setup 15 years ago? It was “public,” because I had no reason to make it private back then, and I’ve ignored it since. So, the bad guys went into my publicly-available account and copied out my pictures, profile information, and friend list. Then, somehow they setup a “clone” of my profile by the same name, populated it with the stolen pictures from my account, and began pestering all of my friends to “re-friend” this new, cloned profile. Why would someone go to this much trouble? Because your friends trust you, and that trust is valuable to a hacker. Once your friends are re-friended to the cloned Facebook profile, they’ll actively attempt to compromise or infect everyone you know. How? If a stranger sends your friend a link, hopefully they’ll wisely delete it. However, if you-as-their-friend send them that link, there’s a good chance they’ll click it, and then the bad guys have what they want. Once someone clicks the link, anything can happen, and none of it will be good. Maybe malware will be installed in the background. Maybe a key-logger will be implanted to record your every keystroke. Maybe, they’ll deliver ransomware, and then you will have an encrypted computer. Maybe, all of the above will happen. But wait! There’s more! In addition to messing with you and your friends, the bad guys will also harvest your cell phone number from your public Facebook profile. At the same time your friends are being bombarded with re-friend requests, you’re going to receive false credit card alerts from what appears to be a bank. I called the number in the message I received, and the first time around it immediately asked for my credit card number to verify my account. The second time I called, it said all operators were busy and to please wait. What all of this tells me is that this is a highly organized group of individuals who are putting together these hacks. They’re hitting every angle. Be aware, and don’t fall for it! I learned two things from this experience. First, I asked a friend to report the fake Facebook profile to Facebook. They acted quickly, and within 15 minutes, that profile had been closed. Only 18 people I know received the fake friend requests. Unfortunately, I didn’t make note of exactly which 18, so a general message to everyone in my feed had to suffice. The second step was to tighten up my security. I visited the “Settings & Privacy” menu in the upper right-hand corner of my Facebook home page. From there, I chose “Privacy Checkup” and clicked on the picture “Who can see what you share.” I changed every single instance of information being “public” to “friends” so that strangers could no longer peruse my information. I’ve not had any trouble since I took these steps. Here’s the part about ransomware. It appears some of the “faux support” bad guys have changed their game. In addition to installing remote support software to get onto your computer, some will also leave behind ransomware. They install the ransomware first, so if you get wise and hang up on them, the ransomware will already be installed to begin encrypting your computer. Please, don’t fall for these tricks. If you need support, call a company you can trust, like Portable CIO, and we will help you sort out what is going on. If these problems have happened to you and you need help, please call our business line at 925-552-7953 or get direct support by emailing support@pcioit. com. We’ll be happy to guide you to safety. Advertorial
July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 19
HOW TO CHOOSE A TRUSTEE
By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.
Establishing a revocable living trust (“Trust”) for yourself and your family is worthwhile for many reasons I’ve written about previously. These include avoiding probate, maintaining privacy, controlling when and how young loved ones inherit assets, estate tax mitigation, etc. Perhaps the most compelling reason is to create a “financial succession” vehicle, optimized to ensure that your assets are handled the way you want, both during your life and after you’re gone. A Trust has three “stakeholders,.” They are 1) the settlor [aka “grantor” or “trustor”] – the person(s) who establishes the trust; 2) the beneficiaries – the people who benefit from the trust; and 3) the trustee – the person who manages the trust. As long as a settlor is willing and able, he or she (or they, if a married couple) typically serves as initial trustee. A much more difficult but important question is who should serve as successor trustee and thus manage the trust (handle the bulk of the settlor’s financial affairs) when the settlor(s) die or become unwilling or unable to do so. This has many implications. It should be thought through carefully and discussed in detail with your estate planning attorney. One should also consider the pros and cons of naming the chosen successor trustees to serve as agents in other critical estate planning documents, such as your Durable Power of Attorney and Will. First, it’s critical to step back and ask what the appropriate criteria is for choosing a successor trustee. It depends on all relevant facts and circumstances, including the makeup of the settlor’s family, loved ones, assets, and objectives. Certain criteria is intuitive and universal, including trustworthiness. An additional consideration is whether or not the candidate is responsible – is he/ she the type of person who gets up in the morning and takes care of business? Geographic proximity can be a factor, but that tends to be less important now because of technology advances that facilitate the management of assets from afar. Emotional character and personality should also be assessed since one or more trust beneficiaries (who are often related to the successor trustee) may try to manipulate the successor trustee. For example, a beneficiary may request that the successor trustee exercise discretion in a manner that is not in the best interest of that beneficiary. On the flip side, the beneficiary may perceive that the successor trustee is treating him/her unfairly. Often, a quick decision is made to nominate one’s spouse, oldest child, or all children as Co-Trustees. Such haste may lead to serious problems. Choosing co-trustees, even when they consist of all of your children, is often problematic logistically and/or because of the required compatibility and cooperation involved in making key decisions (e.g. how, when, or whether to sell or divide certain cherished assets). Family relationships can be devastated as a result of a settlor not taking ample care in deciding who is truly best suited to serve as successor trustee. This decision can be even more sensitive for those who have a blended family. Sometimes, neither relatives nor friends are the best candidates. Many financial institutions have reputable trust departments with capable, seasoned trust officers who can potentially carry out a settlor’s wishes most objectively, safely, and effectively. Another alternative is to choose an experienced “private professional fiduciary” – an individual who is properly licensed, bonded, and insured, whose job entails serving as successor trustee for many different family trusts. Your trusted professional advisors can typically help you make a prudent decision. Certainly, your estate planning attorney should be directly involved, and if you wish, other advisors, such as your CPA and/or financial advisor, may offer helpful counsel. |Estate Planning | Trust Administration & Probate | Real Estate | Business| Please contact me to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. I am an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group, (please note new address) 1910 Olympic Blvd., Suite 330, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com.
This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors. Advertorial
PAGE 20 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
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PREDICTING THE FUTURE!
By Peter T. Waldron, Managing Partner of Spectrum Wealth Partners
“A person often meets his destiny on the road he took to avoid it.” ~ Jean de La Fontaine As a culture, we are captivated by the noise of chaos. We are not satisfied with the plain or simple. We need to move, shake, and change our environment, often forgetting a safety net to catch us when we fall. We are enchanted by exciting fantasies, unconcerned with unpredictable reality. This has never been more prevalent than in the last eighteen months. We went through a global pandemic that nearly crippled our world economy, and watched our government consequently print an unprecedented amount of money which drove the stock market to historic levels. Now, we are seeing positive signs for recovery, the market has continued to grow, and we are becoming acquainted with the reality of inflation. Collectively, we adhere to every headline and are held in paranoid ecstasy. While the paranoia has been slowing diminishing from this year’s activities, many do not fully understand the impact the current economic influences have on their wealth. Many are lost in the question of what will happen in the future to inflation, taxes, and interest rates. Believing in wizardry or whimsical fairytales is fun for children, but ascribing to math, principled debate, and good old-fashioned logic results in more definitive outcomes. While predicting the future is a fool’s game, you can still use some helpful economic tools to understand what is happing around you. Our very own investment lead, Troy Rouleau, presented our team with one of those tools, the Ibbotson-Chen Model, which is a macroeconomic model for computing the equity risk premium (the excess of stock market returns over the risk-free rate of interest). {ERP = [(1+i)*(1+rEg)*(1+Peg) - 1] + Y – RF} where [i = inflation, rEg = expected real growth in earnings per share, Peg = expected change in the market P/E ratio, Y = expected dividend yield on the index, and RF = risk-free rate]. In simple translation, investors should be compensated for the risk of investing in equities (stocks) with inflation as a direct input in calculating expected return. In general, the same economic forces which contribute to inflation will also drive equity returns. While inflation contributes to both fiscal and monetary policies of our government, fiscal policies have most, if not all, the influence on taxes. The impact taxes pertain on your wealth is felt every day, but potential changes in estate and income taxation could cause the impacts to become burdensome. It is too soon to begin planning for the upcoming modifications to our laws, (primarily because they have not been instated), but when the government finalizes these changes, you should consider reviewing your planning. The two main changes may come in the form of an increased level of income taxation, via higher rates on normal income and capital gains, and an estate tax. The estate tax could be a death blow to many people’s wealth as any adjustment will reduce the allowed exemption (the amount you can pass to your heirs free of tax) and increase the rate of said tax. Additionally, it is important to note that increased taxation can reduce both inflation and market growth. Understanding and awareness of these proposed changes as they come to fruition will allow you to address the impact that these new laws have on your personal financial situation. Monetary policy in our country is dictated by the Federal Reserve, which utilizes three main tools to influence the economy. The three tools are reserve requirements (the amount of cash a bank is required to keep on hand), the discount rate (the amount the bank charges its member banks to borrow), and open market operations (buying/selling bonds). These three activities can directly influence inflation and interest rates. Common concerns include the impact of a rising interest rate environment on the prices of stocks and bonds and the rate at which the economy may grow. While we will never know exactly what the Fed will do and when it will do it, we can evaluate what is currently known: the rate of cash reserved at member banks is 300% greater than in 2009. While this doesn’t tell you a lot about the future, it does mean that banks are much more secure than before. Predicting the outcomes of everything discussed in this article would be a feat of magic, and while magic is a fun distraction, it is probably best saved for kids’ birthday parties. Allocating your time to understanding your wealth and the potential impacts of inflation, taxation, and interest rates would yield more productive results. Times like these are when individuals turn to a professional for advice, a professional who spends their career learning and practicing their craft to ensure they convey unbiased knowledge to fit the unique needs of each client. Regardless, predicting the future holds minuscule importance as opposed to escaping our paranoid ecstasy in order to build a plan for the future that is the balance in a world of chaos. “You can’t connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So, you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You have to trust in something - your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.”~ Steve Jobs To schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation, please contact me at 925-786-7686 or email peter.waldron@lfg.com.
Peter T. Waldron is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offers investment advisory services through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Spectrum Wealth Partners, 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 190 PO Box 528, Alamo, CA 94507. Spectrum Wealth Partners is not an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors. Insurance is offered through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc. and other fine companies. This material is for use with the general public and is designed for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, tax or direct investment advice. Lincoln Financial Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice. CRN-3647129-062421 Advertorial
Flags continued from page 16
of the fort.” Only Swartwout’s submission of a bill of eight shillings to replace his cloak used “for the colors” is officially documented. After a 21-day siege, the British retreated to Canada. Barbara Gatewood, Professor Emeritus of Textile Science at Kansas State University, described the materials and dyestuffs used in early American flags in an interview released by K-State News on July 1, 2013. “‘Undyed and sometimes bleached fabrics were used for the white portions of the flag,’ she said. ‘The red dye was usually obtained from the root of the madder plant, which, ironically, was also used to produce the British Army’s famous red coats, or from the female cochineal, a tiny insect that lives on specific cactus. The primary sources for blue dye were woad and indigo, two plants that contain blue dye in their leaves.’” While the South American insect providing cochineal red feeds on opuntia cactus as far north as the American Southwest, Spain controlled production of that dyestuff at the time of the American Revolution. However, madder, woad, and indigo all grew within the thirteen colonies. Having madder and woad mattered enough to settlers to be featured in a 1629 note reading: “Articles to be sent to New England by the Massachusetts Bay Company: vines, cereals, fruit seeds, woad seed, saffron heads, liquorice seed, madder roots, hop-roots.” The National Garden of the Herb Society UK at Sulgrave Manor, ancestral home of George Washington’s family, showcases herbs taken to North America by colonists. In combination with other ingredients, both woad and madder yield a wide range of colors. In A Short History of Dye Plants, Elaine Dow of the New England Chapter of the Herb Society of America writes: “Woad black, obtained from the addition of madder, produced a black superior to all other blacks and one used until well into the 1800s.” Dow contends: “Madder (Rubia tinctoria) is probably the single most important natural dye herb. It was used by the ancient Persians, Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.” Rita Buchanan notes in A Weaver’s Garden: Woad (Isatis tinctoria) may have been the first plant cultivated for pigment.” She adds: “Woad was by far the most widely used dyestuff in Europe for centuries.” Eliza Pinckney raised a sufficiently successful crop of indigo (Indigo tinctoria) in 1744 to distribute seeds to her South Carolina neighbors. In 1775, exports from the southern colonies totaled 1,122,200 pounds. When England established cheaper sources of indigo in India, Eliza’s son Charles, a signer of the Constitution, raised cotton instead. The first synthetic dye, Perkin’s mauve, appeared in 1856. Synthesis of red dye in 1869 made the once profitable European madder trade obsolete. Prickly, sprawling madder plants are unattractive. Considered a noxious weed in 11 western states, woad now generates the kind of blues associated with misery.
July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 21
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THE EYE OPENER
By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry SHOULD MY SUNGLASSES BE POLARIZED?
Summer is upon us which means most of us will be outdoors enjoying sports, recreation, and vacations. Due to reduction in COVID restrictions, we are all excited about leaving our homes and getting outside. With this increased time outdoors, we all should look for ways to protect our eyes from the harmful rays of the sun. I think by now most people who wear sunglasses are familiar with polarized lenses. In addition to providing valuable UV protection, polarized lenses make colors more vibrant and eliminate annoying glare. Polarized lenses are available in all types of prescriptions and lens styles including single vision, bifocals, and progressives. First, we should discuss polarized light and how polarized sunglasses work. Light emitted from most sources including the sun, light bulbs, or candles is unpolarized; which means it travels in different planes while moving through the air. When light bounces off a surface (water, road, dashboard, etc.), the light becomes partially polarized, and it is mostly reflected horizontally. That means that reflected sunlight does not bounce off a surface equally in all directions; it comes at the eyes predominately in the horizontal plane, causing glare and distortion. Since reflected sunlight comes at the eyes in this predictable manner, we can combat this annoying glare with a polarized lens. This lens contains a properly oriented vertical filter that specifically eliminates this harmful glare. This filter does not impact the appearance of the lenses, but it selectively eliminates glare. People with polarized lenses now see the world more clearly and with more vibrant colors because glare is not present to compromise vision. Polarized lenses have many everyday applications that make them the lens of choice for your next pair of prescription or non-prescription sunglasses. While driving, annoying reflections from your hood and dashboard are eliminated. While walking or biking, the glare off the road on a sunny day is removed. For those who are on the water fishing or boating or who like to go to the beach or ski, the glare off of the water or slopes can be debilitating. Assuming the water is clear, with polarized lenses you will be able to see through the water to the life beneath the surface. While skiing, vision will be less strained with the glare from the snow removed. Polarized lenses come in gray and brown and are available in several materials including plastic, Trivex, and high-index. They come in single vision, bifocal, and progressives. Also, there are now multiple color options such as green and amber that are available in single vision lenses and some progressives. As an additional benefit, all polarized lenses come with a UV coating, so all harmful ultraviolet radiation is blocked from getting to the eyes. Keep in mind that the most important thing about sunglasses is the ultraviolet protection. A pair of sunglasses without ultraviolet protection is relatively useless. If you choose to not have the lenses polarized, please ensure that ultraviolet protection is added to your lenses. All polarized lenses come with a UV filter, so all of your sun wear needs are addressed with one lens. Come into the office to view the available styles in Raen, Kate Spade, Gucci, Under Armour, and many more. We look forward to seeing you this summer. Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at (925) 820-6622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165 in Alamo. For more information, visit www.alamooptometry.com, and join in on Facebook, Instagram, Advertorial and Twitter @Alamo Optometry.
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PAGE 22 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
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“DISCOVER DIABLO” 2021 HIKES PROGRAM
ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)
By Roger Smith, President THE COMPLEX AND PERPLEXING SITUATION OF 5G (PART 1 OF 2)
Working, studying, and doing most everything from home due to the pandemic has placed a spotlight on the need for reliable, fast broadband to “bridge the digital divide.” So, to accomplish this, the Telecommunications industry has created a slew of new bills in California to address this issue, along with their industry lobbyists promising our State representatives that they will finally “bridge the digital divide.” But is this their real intent? Since the 1990’s, Americans have paid fees on their phone bills that were meant to bring broadband to every American using fiber optics. A recent court case* revealed that the industry siphoned these fees through an accounting scheme and instead used these funds to build out their cheaper, more profitable, less regulated, wireless infrastructure. Local governments are best at assessing the unique conditions of their communities and being responsive to their communities, while wireless carriers have repeatedly demonstrated that they put industry desires over community needs. The Greenlining Institute; a policy, research, organization, and leadership institute working for racial and economic justice; understands this. In 2017, they opposed a similar industry-sponsored California Bill, SB 649 stating, “Sadly, communications providers have repeatedly demonstrated that they will not make advanced services available to low-income or rural areas unless they are required to do so.” The proposed California State Senate Bill - SB 556 and Assembly Bill AB 537 legislation contains no such requirements either. Under these bills, it is likely that providers will again focus their efforts in higher-income areas. This is because 5G networks will work with the IoT (Internet of Things) for connecting devices and appliances, which will require individuals to purchase expensive plans. Recently, the FCC was given $3.2 billion to distribute among low-income Americans for broadband assistance, giving customers a $50 per month credit toward their wireless plans. But ironically, in order to access these credits, providers are forcing low-income subsidy applicants to switch to costlier plans**. The FCC and the courts have all determined that local control is essential to implementing wireless service and both have continued to place the burden of legal remedy on the industry should any disputes arise between them. Incorporated in these CA proposed bills is language that not only removes local control but also shifts expensive legal remedies from the industry to local governments should any disputes arise (including safety disputes). For more information on proposed Senate Bill - SB 556 and Assembly Bill - AB 537 and current regulations, visit cal4safetech.org/ab-537-%26-sb-556/. *Irregulators v. FCC; DC Circuit Court of Appeals, 2020 Mar 13, **(https://arstechnica.com/ tech-policy/2021/05/verizon-uses-fcc-pandemic-subsidy-to-upsell-customers-to-pricier-plans/)
EMERGENCY PREPARATION & EVACUATION PLANNING
Ron Marley, of the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, will present our second annual Public Safety Presentation on “Emergency Preparation and Evacuation Planning” via Zoom at 6PM, July 21st. Visit www.AlamoCA. org for the Zoom meeting access and more information.
AIA BOARD MEMBERS FOR 2021
• Derene Allen – 24 year resident, Tree Committee Chairperson • Bruce E. Carrier – 29 year resident, Planning Committee, Community Affairs Committee • David Ciapponi – 32 year resident, Community Proponent • Jim Farrell – 20 year resident, Treasurer, Community Affairs Committee • Tim Fiebig – 4 year resident, Community Affairs Committee • Jo-Ann Jacobson- 28 year resident, Community Affairs Committee • Rick Lyding - 32 year resident, AIA Board Member, Community Proponent • Valerie Schooley – 24 year resident, Exec. Vice President, Code Compliance Chairperson, Planning Committee, Community Affairs Committee THANK YOU for your interest in AIA and your willingness to volunteer.
ALAMO CERTIFIED FARMER’S MARKET
Watch for fresh berries, stone fruit, melons, and asparagus as well as wonderful produce, prepared foods, dairy items, and more at the Alamo Farmer’s Market! The Market is open Sundays from 9AM – 2PM, in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd., near Bank of America. There is free parking, live music, and friendly vendors.
AIA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY
Visit www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to Alamo (including Danville and Walnut Creek) residents, membership forms, and more.
Explore some of the East Bay’s premiere hiking spots with Save Mount Diablo (SMD) in 2021, including areas rarely open to the public. The Discover Diablo hike series offers interpretive family walks, guided hikes, and property tours, all free to the public. Trailblazers of all ages and skill levels are welcome. SMD is adding hikes and new activities to the series. New offerings will include climbing, mountain biking, and bilingual hikes in Spanish and English. The ever-popular tarantula walk will be offered twice, and a special hike will celebrate the California State Parks centennial. Hikes are guided by experts steeped in the natural history and lore of the region, who both educate and entertain while emphasizing the breathtaking beauty that the Diablo Range has to offer. See the schedule of upcoming hikes, and RSVP online at http://bit.ly/Discover-Diablo-Hikes-Calendar.
DANVILLE LIONS CLUB
The Danville Lions Club meets virtually at 6:30PM on the first Tuesday and third Wednesday of every month. Danville Lions Club raises funds and provide services to those in need, both locally and worldwide through fun and gratifying projects. Lions are well known for successful initiatives in vision health. Please contact Nancy for a guest connection to the next Zoom meeting at nbircher@ mac.com Visit www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/danvilleca to learn more. For club information, contact Truman Howard at 925-820-1711.
LOCAL ROTARY CLUBS
The Rotary Club of Alamo meets virtually on Wednesdays at 12:15PM. For information about the group visit alamorotary. org, email alamorotary@hotmail.com, or call 925-718-6601. The Danville Rotary Club meets virtually every Monday at noon. Learn more at danvillerotary.org. If you are interested in the Danville/ Sycamore Valley Rotary Club, contact Daniel Kodam at daniel@dsvrotary. com, call 925-336-0000, or visit dsvrotary.com. The Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley meets via Zoom every Wednesday night from 7PM-8:30PM. For more information, call Valerie Munoz at 925-683-6310 or visit www. sanramonvalleyrotary.com. The Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/San Ramon meets via Zoom, on Wednesdays from 5:30PM-6:40PM. For more information, call 925-998-2924. Rotary Club of San Ramon meets via Zoom every Thursday between noon and 1:15pm. For more information, visit sanramonrotary.org, email chris@gallagherwealth.com, or call 925-831-3043.
EXCHANGE CLUB
The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month at Faz Restaurant, located at 600 Hartz Avenue in Danville. Sign-in and social time begin at 11:30AM. The meeting starts promptly at noon and ends promptly at 1PM. The one-hour program features guest speakers and business networking. Guests are welcome with luncheon reservations. The cost is $20 for members and first time guests, and $23 for returning guests. For reservations and information, please contact Karen Stepper at 925-998-8865 or coachstepper@yahoo.com.
KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY
The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets every Thursday at noon. Meetings are currently being held via Zoom. The Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville and many other exciting events. The Club has an interesting and informative weekly program speaker and specializes in fun and entertaining camaraderie. There is no charge for a guest lunch. For more information, email info@srvkiwanis.org, or visit www.srvkiwanis.org.
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July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 23
GOLFER’S ELBOW GOT YOU FEELING SUB-PAR?
By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC WHAT IS GOLFER’S ELBOW?
Golfer’s elbow, or medial epicondylitis, is similar to its counterpart, tennis elbow. The primary differences between these conditions are the location of the pain and the activity that leads to injury. However, both conditions are caused by overuse of the muscles and tendons of the forearm, leading to inflammation and pain around the elbow joint, commonly called tendonitis. Golf is one common cause of tendonitis, but many other sports and work-related activities can cause the same problem. The cause of golfer’s elbow can vary from a single violent action (acute injury) to, more commonly, a repetitive stress injury where an action is performed repeatedly and pain gradually develops. In an acute injury of the elbow, inflammation occurs without substantial tissue damage. However, in a repetitive stress situation, a person may experience damage to the tendon and surrounding soft tissue, causing tissue degeneration over time. Inflammation from acute injury often responds quickly to rest and anti-inflammatory treatment. However, if the injury is due to tendon tissue degeneration, treatment will be longer and will be focused on improving the strength of the tendon as well as rebuilding tissues.
GOLFER’S ELBOW SYMPTOMS
With golfer’s elbow, pain is on the inside of the elbow, usually during or after intense use. Typically, the pain increases during wrist flexion or pronation and often radiates to the forearm. Because this frequently occurs in golfers, it has become known as “golfer’s elbow.” However, it is also known as “pitcher’s elbow.”
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Golfer’s elbow does not usually cause any Email: staff@caldermcare.com long-term disability. However, the condition may drwilliamting.com *Welcoming new Medicare patients become stubborn. Proper rehabilitation will help alleviate the symptoms and get you back to life again. • Rest and Reduce Inflammation: The first step a person should take if tendonitis is suspected is to stop the activities that cause the pain and inflammation-- in this case, rest the arm. Use a topical cream containing Arnica to begin to quickly reduce the inflammatory process. • Laser Therapy to Heal the Damaged Tissue: Ending the pain caused by golfer’s elbow requires healing the damaged tissue. Class IV laser therapy is an excellent method for this because it is presently the only form of therapy that can both reduce inflammation and heal tissue simultaneously. Laser treatments at Align Healing Center are done with the Summus Class IV Laser. This laser does not cut or burn but is gently absorbed by the tissue. During Laser Therapy, the infrared laser light interacts with tissues at the cellular level, increasing metabolic activity and improving the transport of nutrients across the cell membrane. This initiates the production of cellular energy (ATP) that leads to a cascade of beneficial effects, increasing cellular function and health. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness, scar tissue, and pain. • Correct the Mechanics of Motion: Assessing the forearm, elbow, shoulder, and spine for proper postural feedback is done to diagnose and correct improper alignment. After proper alignment is restored, specific muscular taping is applied to improve circulation and ensure proper motion on a daily basis. Lastly, specific strengthening and stretching exercises are given. By strengthening the muscles and tendons involved with golfers’ elbow, you can prevent the problem from returning. At Align Healing Center, we are having great success treating golfer’s elbow, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, sciatica, shoulder and neck pain, migraines, arthritis, carpal tunnel, post surgical pain, sports injuries, and more, even long-term residual pain. Arthritis and degenerative disc disease sufferers can see long-term benefits from this treatment without any of the negative side effects experienced with the long term use of medications. Dr. Niele Maimone, DC is the owner and founder of Align Healing Center in Danville. She has been active in our natural health and wellness community since 1999. For more information or to set up a consult, call 925-362-8283 or visit www.alignhealingcenter.com. Advertorial
PAGE 24 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST
By Linda Michaelis RD, MS WHY AM I NOT LOSING WEIGHT WITH ALL THIS EXERCISE?
Summertime is the best time of the year to embark on a weight loss regimen. During the summer months, we require less food due to the heat, as opposed to during the winter where we need extra food for fuel to keep us warm. Many clients confuse hunger with feeling cold during the colder months. My favorite client is one that is tracking calories, exercising, and eating better but still not losing weight. When a new client calls me and says they are doing all the right things to lose weight and not making progress, a list of possible scenarios runs through my mind.
YOU ARE EATING BACK ALL THE CALORIES YOU BURN
When you work out, you are burning extra calories. Exercise is important in the weight-loss equation. But a lot of people overestimate how much they burn -- and even use the “I exercised today” excuse to overeat and over-drink. How many times have you faced a food temptation and thought, “Well, I worked out today, so it’s OK this time.” Or, “I’ll have this now but work out extra hard tomorrow.” If that sounds all-too-familiar, this is one major reason why you’re not losing weight. We overestimate how many calories we burn and underestimate how many calories we eat. Even personal trainers tell me that they think weight loss is 80% nutrition and 20% exercise.
YOU’RE RELYING ON EXERCISE ALONE TO DO THE TRICK
Exercising can help you lose weight because it helps you create the calorie deficit to lose weight. However, exercise alone will not help you lose weight. It takes a lot of time and effort to burn even a few calories. For many people, a full hour of intense exercise may only burn 400-500 calories. On the flipside, it’s easy to eat hundreds or thousands of calories in even a few minutes. If you are not changing your diet and reducing your calorie intake, exercise alone probably won’t help your weight-loss results.
YOU ARE NOT EATING AS HEALTHY AS YOU THINK
We all think we eat pretty well. Even people who eat a poor diet don’t think it’s that bad. Often, I see people skimp on eating during the day right after
www.yourmonthlypaper.com | Instagram: @Alamoanddanvilletoday | #atdtnews exercising and then eat heavier at night. It should be the other way around. After you exercise, your metabolism is sped up, and calories are burned off at three times the rate compared to many hours later. We tend to eat late-night meals because of schedules, and this can also can prevent weight loss. We enjoy alcohol, but having a large glass of wine can easily add 200 calories. I suggest drinking vodka and gin martinis which many enjoy as they find that with just one drink they feel that buzz and don’t need several glasses of wine. I see others eating too much cheese, nuts, olives, and avocados. These foods have healthy fats, but many people eat too much of them.
YOU ARE DOING THE WRONG KINDS OF EXERCISE
When it comes to exercising, there is confusion. One day you hear that strength training is the best way to lose weight. The next day you’re told to focus on cardio. For those that walk for exercise, I tell them they must step it up and do interval training to shock the metabolism. Cardio is the key for weight loss, and strength training keeps you from turning soft and keeps your muscles looking toned and feeling strong.
YOU ARE NOT BEING CONSISTENT ENOUGH
When struggling to lose those final 5-10 pounds, consistent efforts are important. If you try to eat “perfectly” and exercise for a week only to step on the scale to see that you haven’t lost an ounce, you may think, “What is the point?” If you then go on an all-out eating feast and skip the gym for a couple days, you may find yourself calling me and saying it’s an emergency. It is my job to teach you how to enjoy birthday cake, drinks, and socializing with friends. You need a plan that includes your favorite foods and is enjoyable with no deprivation. My eight-week Royal Treatment Program is my most popular for successful weight loss. It includes a visit a week and coaching by text, phone, or email. Call me, and I will tell you about the program and how it can work for you. I am glad to inform you that I am contracted with most insurance companies including Aetna, Anthem, Blue Shield, CCHP, UHC, and Sutter Health. I will call your insurance and check on coverage for you. Please visit my website, www.LindaRD.com, to learn more about my services. Feel free to email me at lifeweight1@yahoo.com, or call me at 925-855-0150 to tell me about your nutritional concerns and see how I may help you. Advertorial
Raptors continued from page 18
Rachel/Lisa. I know I am being given the greatest gift, the chance to turn passion into policy, to make the world better.” With Allen’s support, Lisa launched Rodents Are the Solution (RATS). The website www.raptorsarethesolution.org offers an amazing array of free educational materials from posters and brochures to bookmarks. Actively involved in promoting appropriate legislation, Lisa sees passage of the California bill last fall prohibiting most uses of SGARs while the California Department of Pesticide Regulation evaluates their impact on nontarget species as a first step in banning the poisons nationwide. Getting acquainted firsthand with raptors is easy for East Bay residents. Greg Cochran enjoys watching and photographing raptors from his Danville backyard. He advises, “If Red-tailed hawk gets ready to snatch a California Ground Squirrel. Photo you turn your back, you can miss the whole by Greg Cochran. thing.” A Red-tailed Hawk swoops down and removes another ground squirrel from the Crow Canyon Country Club Golf Course. He snaps a shot of “the flying squirrel.” He’s nicknamed the Great Horned Owl roosting regularly in a nearby tree camouflaged by foliage “Waldo.” Since it’s a bird-eat-bird world, Greg isn’t offended when Cooper’s Hawks and Sharp-shinned Hawks take smaller birds as prey. More next month on GGRO and the annual coastal raptor migration, Hawk Watch, and threats to raptors and less well-known birds of prey. All raptors are protected under California law but not necessarily from the latest modern dangers.
Joan Duffield (L) and Rosita Harvey (R) have enjoyed monitoring Pine Canyon Peregrines from a respectful distance for many years. (Photo Courtesy of MDIA P-Team).
Alan Bade, Mount Diablo Audubon Society Community Science Chair, lists local raptor-viewing spots: Briones and EBMUD hiking trails; Mount Diablo State Park; Morgan Territory; Pine Canyon in Castle Rock/Diablo Foothills: Peregrines, Red-tailed Hawks, Golden Eagles (occasional), American Kestrels, Cooper's Hawks, and others; Black Diamond Mines: Peregrine and Prairie Falcons (occasional both), Red-tailed Hawks, Golden Eagles (occasional) Kestrels, Cooper's Hawks, and others.
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July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 25
DROOPY EYELIDS GOT YOU DOWN?
By Jerome Potozkin, MD
Four months ago, Susan came to my office. Like many patients that I see, she was interested in noninvasive ways to turn back the hands of time. We discussed Botox and fillers, as well as laser or lightbased rejuvenation treatments. She mentioned that she wanted to avoid major surgery and would not consider of facelift or anything that required being put under general anesthesia. Despite this, she mentioned that her upper eyelids really bothered her because she felt they made her look old and tired. Fortunately for Susan, we had a solution that didn’t require being put under.
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Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exams
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Contact Lens Exams
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Prescription Glasses and Sunglasses In many cases, we are able to make your glasses in our office with our On-Site Lab
215 ALAMO PLAZA SUITE D ALAMO, CA 94507 www.poplarspecs.com
Before (left) and After (right) - Upper Eyelid Blepharoplasty (individual results may vary).
Susan was actually a great candidate for a procedure known as an upper eyelid blepharoplasty, also known as an eyelid lift. This is a procedure that can be done in an office-based setting, completely with local anesthesia, without the need to be “put under.” This makes the procedure safer and the recovery faster. After several years of performing Mohs Surgery and reconstructive surgery for skin cancer, I learned this technique from Henry Baylis, M.D. who had been the head of oculoplastic surgery at UCLA. I even had him operate with me in my office when I first started performing this technique. That was many moons ago. In order to undergo an upper eyelid blepharoplasty, you need a responsible adult to drive you to and from the office. We use a sterile marking pen to mark the natural eyelid crease. We then mark out the excess skin. It is always better to err on the side of taking out less rather than more. Next, we inject local anesthesia. Once your eyelids are numb and you can’t feel anything, we remove the excess skin. Stitches are then placed and stay in for seven days. Post-operative effects are minimal and temporary. Minor swelling and bruising usually disappears within two weeks. Aftercare is minimal and entails applying cold to minimize swelling and ointment to where the stitches are. At day seven, sutures are removed. Usually, the incision line fades to the point that it is not noticeable. If your droopy lids are bothering you, chances are we can help. Maybe you were under the impression that in order to treat this problem you would need major surgery and be put under general anesthesia. Fortunately, that is not the case, and the solution may be easier than you think. Call us today. Dr. Jerome Potozkin is a Board Certified Dermatologist specializing in minimally and non-invasive cosmetic procedures. The practice is accepting new patients and can be reached at (925) 838-4900 and www. Advertorial MyBeautyMd.com.
OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY MONDAY—FRIDAY: 9 - 6 SATURDAY: 9 - 4
925.202.2846 MEALS ON WHEELS
FRIENDLY HELPER PROGRAM
Meals on Wheels (MOW) Diablo Region launched the Friendly Helper Program (FHP) to assist seniors with their everyday errands, such as grocery shopping and picking up medications at a local pharmacy. This pilot program will make it easier for seniors to remain at home. “With most of our seniors sheltering-in-place, MOW Diablo Region can now provide another essential service that our seniors truly need,” said MOW Diablo Region Health and Wellness Division Manager, Cynthia Black. The guidelines below determine if a senior is eligible for the Friendly Helpers Program: • Seniors must be a participant in the existing Friendly Visitors or Friendly Callers program. • Seniors must provide at least a four-day notice before the errand is to be completed. • Weekend errands may be available with a seven-day notice. • If the volunteer pays for any item on behalf of the senior, the volunteer must be reimbursed at the time the item is delivered (cash or checks only). • There is a $50 limit on all purchases. • MOW Diablo Region requires all seniors and volunteers to adhere to the Contra Costa County Department of Health guidelines pertaining to COVID. For more information on the Friendly Helper Program, visit www.mowdiabloregion.org/get-involved, or contact Eileen Stephens at estephens@mowdr.org, or 925-482-2622, or Tuyet Iaconis at tiaco-nis@mowdr.org or 925-891-4872.
VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO GIVE RIDES TO SENIORS AND VETERANS
Mobility Matters is a nonprofit agency that gives rides to seniors and veterans in Contra Costa County. Volunteer drivers are needed to escort seniors to medical appointments and grocery shopping. Volunteers must be 25 to 75 years old. Please call Mobility Matters at (925) 284-2215 for more details. You can learn more about Mobility Matters at www.mobilitymatterscc.com.
PAGE 26 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
SUN SAFETY: A CRITICAL COMPONENT OF A HEALTHY LIFESTYLE
By Dr. Barbara Persons
I’m often asked about the most common factors contributing to the aging process. Everyday exposure to the sun, pollution, and other factors in our environment contribute to the natural aging process. As residents of the Bay Area, we are fortunate to live in a very mild climate with an abundance of sunny days. However, this fortune comes at a price as the sun is the number one enemy we battle in our quest to retain our youthful appearance. Frequency and intensity of sun exposure can accelerate the aging process, damage skin, and increase incidence of skin cancer. As such, part of any healthy lifestyle includes practicing sun safety. We start our lives with thin, delicate, baby skin and end up with thin, delicate, elder skin. The care we take to protect our skin really does make a difference. Wearing hats, sunglasses, protective clothing, and liberal use of sunscreen are necessary precautions to protect us from our infancy to our golden years. As we roll into summer, I have noticed children at the pool or playground becoming red and sunburned. Just one bad sunburn in childhood increases our lifetime risk of melanoma (the most fatal form of skin cancer). We need to take proper precautions to reduce and even eliminate these risks. While it is true that our over-exposure to the sun may just result in more sunspots and premature or excessive wrinkles, melanoma is a very serious consequence of enjoying too much sun throughout our lifespan. Recently, I removed over 50 skin lesions from a 70 year-old patient. Sadly, most of these lesions could have been avoided with a better understanding of how the sun damages our skin and the best practices we should take to protect our skin. The sun emits two types of ultraviolet rays: UVA and UVB. Either can cause sunburn and damage skin. It is a common misconception that cloudy days offer protection from sunburn. UVA and UVB rays penetrate clouds and still will cause sunburn and damage to the skin. Medications can also increase your risk of getting sunburned, including many antibiotics, most acne medications, and some antidepressants. It is always wise to review your medications with your
www.yourmonthlypaper.com | Instagram: @Alamoanddanvilletoday | #atdtnews doctor or pharmacist regarding sensitivity to sunburn. The best way to enjoy the sunshine is to limit exposure when the sun rays are most intense (between 10am and 4pm) and to use adequate sunscreen protection at all times. While the use of sunscreen is paramount, it must be used properly in order to be effective. Follow these guidelines for sunscreen use for a happier and healthier outdoor lifestyle: • Sunscreens with a zinc base are optimal, and zinc is found in higher end brands (such as our own PPS brand; all available in our office) • Do not wait until you are in the sun to apply. Sunscreens are designed to be absorbed into the skin. Apply liberally (two ounces, equivalent to a full shot glass, for arms and legs) 30 minutes before sun exposure for optimal protection. It should be reapplied often and always reapplied after swimming or excessive sweating. • Regular use of sunscreen can begin at six months of age and used indefinitely. • Sunscreen is good until the expiration date. If an expiration date is not indicated, it will typically have a shelf life of three years. • SPF means “sun protection factor.” A SPF of 4 provides protection allowing you to be in the sun 4 times as long before burning. SPF 8 equals eight times as long and so on. SPF 15 blocks 93% of incoming UVB rays, SPF 30 blocks 97%, SPF 50 blocks 98%, and SPF 100 blocks 99% of UVB rays. These recommendations are meant to be guidelines and need to be tailored to individual skin types. If sunburn does occur, use of cold compresses, over the counter Benadryl, and pain medication may help with the sting. In cases of longer-term sun damage, it is paramount to seek the counsel of a highly-trained and experienced medical professional. As always, I welcome the opportunity to help you explore the options available with an in-depth consultation. I wish you a sun safe and happy summer season! Barbara L Persons, MD, FACS is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc., located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She can be reached at 925-283-4012 Advertorial or info@personsplasticsurgery.com.
TELECARE CONNECTS WITH THE HOMEBOUND
Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, have been making weekday reassurance calls, to seniors and the homebound in our community. Clients can anticipate a friendly exchange of ideas with trained volunteers who provide high quality, consistent communications. If a client cannot be reached, family members will be notified. This service is free! Additional TeleCare activities include an annual holiday party, and they also receive greeting cards from the Assisteens, an auxiliary where tweens and teens learn to participate in a community service. Make that call to get you or someone you know connected! For more information, call 925-934-0901. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s other philanthropic programs, please visit www.assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley.
FREE CONSULTATIONS TO FAMILY CAREGIVERS WITH DEMENTIA-RELATED CONCERNS
Hope Hospice has launched a complimentary video conference service.“Many of the family caregivers who attend our classes find themselves in the caregiver role unexpectedly and without resources,” says program manager Jill Smith, RN. “The face-to-face classes have helped these individuals tremendously in learning about the changes to expect in their loved one and how to adjust techniques as the disease progresses.” Zoom will be used to conduct private consultations with family members who have questions on specific challenges they are facing in caring for a loved one living with dementia. Submit a meeting request via email to jills@hopehospice.com, or call (925) 829-8770. Email is preferred. Learn more at www.HopeHospice.com.
Feral Cat Foundation
Kitten and Cat Adoptions Saturdays 11AM-3PM | Petco 2005 Crow Canyon Place, San Ramon All cats will be spayed or neutered, receive FVRCP shots, feline testing, microchip
Learn more at feralcatfoundation.org 925-829-9098
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HANDYMAN SERVICES
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Home Services with 30 years experience •Plumbing •Electrical •Drywall repair •New toilets •Carpentry •Caulking •Grab bars •Pressure washing •Ceramic tile •Water heaters •Dead bolts •Faucets •Garbage disposals •Flooring NO JOB TOO SMALL! Call James, owner, at 925-934-0877
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July 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 27
925-831-8310 Meet Dr. Yvonne Hyland & Her Family Dr. Hyland has been in private practice since 2000. She received a DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas. Following dental school, she pursued a hospital-based General Practice Residency at the Veteran’s Medical Center in West Los Angeles for two years. Realizing this was not the end of her formal education, she completed a successful threeyear post-graduate surgical residency in periodontics. Dr. Hyland’s experience and professional skills excel in every aspect of dentistry from general cosmetic procedures to complex surgical cases. She has placed thousands of successful dental implants and is highly trained in all phases of gum disease therapy, tissue and bone grafting procedures, and wisdom teeth extraction. Dr. Hyland understands the desire to provide the very best care for the entire family. As a resident of Alamo, she strives to meet community needs by providing unparalleled services for those seeking the finest complete dental care in one location. In her spare time, Dr. Hyland enjoys spending time with her husband Terry, two sets of twin boys, and their three rescue dogs adopted from ARF.
Open Monday - Thursday and the first two Saturday’s of each month.
PAGE 28 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • July 2021
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What’s Your Home Worth?
Visit www.assessmyequity.com to find out for FREE! Jon Ahern, Real Estate Broker 925.838.9999 | jon@ahernregroup.com
Camille Ahern, CLHMS, Real Estate Professional
DRE# 01169357
Coming Soon
450 El Pintado Rd., Danville
4 BED | 2 BATH | 2,312± SQ FT | 0.36± ACRES Beautiful ranch style single story Danville home with lush backyard and a beautiful koi pond.
Price Upon Request
Pending
DRE# 01865464
Active
256 Red Pine Ct., Danville*
4 BED | 5 BATH | 5,774± SQ FT | 1.50± ACRES Modern & private estate with breathtaking views on 2 acres! This estate is has an additional 700 SqFt of non living space prime for an au pair or guest retreat conversion. www.256redpine.com
Offered at $5,388,000
*Co-listed with June Johnstone with Keller Williams DRE #00907994
Active
925.963.0068 | camille@ahernregroup.com
Pending
Sold
216 Red Pine Dr., Danville*
2747 Falcon View Ct., Alamo
34 Rosewood Ct., Danville
3197 Lunada Ln., Alamo
Villa Serena is a Tuscan Mediterranean gated private estate with views of Mt. Diablo on one of the most prestigious lots in Blackhawk. www.216redpine.com
Desirable single story Alamo home. This beautiful half acre lot is conveniently located near some of Alamo’s best restaurants and shopping.
Luxurious Estate with Timeless European Elegance. This home was take down to the studs by previous owner and rebuilt using the best finishes available.
Fabulous Westside Alamo Location! Entertainers delight. This stunning single story rancher has been taken down to the studs and built to impress with no expense spared.
6BED | 6.5 BATH | 6,075± SQ FT | 1.13± ACRES
Offered at $4,998,000
5 BED | 5 BATH | 4,118± SQ FT | 0.60± ACRES
Offered at $2,750,000
5 BED | 3.5 BATH | 5,839± SQ FT | 0.52± ACRES
Offered at $3,695,000
5 BED | 3 BATH | 3,800± SQ FT | 0.49± ACRES
Sold for $3,100,000
Coldwell Banker is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.