Lafayette Today August 2016

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

August 2016

Serving the Lafayette Community

A Chat with John Otto

By Fran Miller

John Otto never planned to become the “go-to graphics guy” for nearly every volunteer organization in Lafayette. It just happened. “I never came forward to volunteer,” says the 87 year-old Lafayette resident. “But volunteering came to me, and I’m glad it did.”

Otto currently provides graphic design work for Lafayette Senior Transportation, the Lafayette Library and Learning Center Foundation (LLLCF), Lafayette Historical Society (LHS), Lafayette Improvement Association, the Lafayette Community Foundation, Lamorinda Village, and Las Trampas organization for the disabled. He designs logos, business cards, folders, brochures, mailers, flyers, posters, banners, and even t-shirts.

“He is an awesome partner,” says Kathy Merchant, capital campaign liaison for Las Trampas. She and Otto began their collaborations when she was executive director of the LLLCF, and their partnership continued when she began work at Las Trampas as development director. “Want to know about fonts? Want to know how to hone your message to its essence and then be enhanced by amazing graphics? Want fresh peaches? Then meet John Otto, my mentor and great friend.”

Otto began drawing as soon as he could hold a pencil. In the fourth grade, he was drawing Disney’s seven dwarfs, Donald Duck, Popeye, Bugs Bunny, Batman and Robin, and Superman. At age 11, growing up in Portland, he started a hand printed neighborhood newspaper with two other kids on his street. He took art classes in high school where he painted signs and school event banners and designed the student body card. He entered art school at the University of Oregon where he studied drawing and painting, and he designed portions of the yearbook.

After a three-year stint in the army – where his skills were put to use stenciling names on helmets and drawing for the yearbook – he attended the Chouinard Art Institute in Los Angeles where he earned a degree in advertising design and, more importantly, where he met his wife Sue. His first job out of art school was with TV Guide as an assistant art director. He moved on to ad agency work where he ultimately retired as VP/executive art director.

“When I began in graphic design, everything was done by hand,” says Otto, who, despite drastic industry changes over the past few decades, has managed to evolve and adapt. “The graphic arts industry required many talents before the computer. We made use of typographers, illustrators, photographers, retouchers, printers, engravers, and others. When this new 20th century marvel arrived in the 80’s, all things changed.”

Otto can now handle most graphics jobs on his trusty Mac using Adobe Illustrator software. “I still use a pencil to think and draw with,” he says. “That’s where

Local Postal Customer

Crayon sorting is fun for all ages. Photo courtesy of TCI.

The Crayon Initiative: As Innovative as Child’s Play By Jody Morgan

What’s cooking in the Ware family’s kitchen? Fuel for the imagination generated by a recipe that keeps a non-biodegradable product out of the landfill. Bryan Ware, Founder and President of The Crayon Initiative (TCI), leads his team in remaking unwanted crayons into new 8-color boxes specially designed for pediatric hospital patients across the nation. From collection to distribution, TCI makes a complex process proceed as innovatively as child’s play.

In 2011, while celebrating his 40th birthday at a family-friendly establishment, Ware wondered what would happen to the crayons the restaurant had given his two young sons if they didn’t take them home.

Restaurants, he discovered, fearing contamination and being risk averse,

See Crayon continued on page 8

Urgent Need for Volunteers

Many have found great personal satisfaction in volunteering with White Pony Express (WPE), a nonprofit group dedicated to helping to end hunger and poverty in Contra Costa County. The proAn exuberant volunteer shows cart loads of food she gram has been so well has picked up from a generous donor. received that additional volunteers are urgently needed to help keep up with its rapid Volume X - Number 8 See Otto continued on page 20 growth. The need in our com3000F Danville Blvd #117 Alamo, CA 94507 munity remains very great.

Telephone (925) 405-6397 Seven days a week, WPE Food PRSRT STD Fax (925) 406-0547 U.S. Postage Rescue volunteers take trucks to editor@yourmonthlypaper.com PAID supermarkets, restaurants, and Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher Permit 21 farmers markets where they pick The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and Lafayette, CA not necessarily reflect that of Lafayette Today. Lafayette up thousands of pounds of surplus do Today is not responsible for the content of any of the adECRWSS vertising herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.

See Volunteer cont. on page 4

Page 2 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

Boulevard View

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor

You can teach an old dog new tricks! I spent the weekend learning a new skill – how to drive a motorcycle. Buying or even riding a motorcycle is not something I plan on doing much but a) everyone else in my family has their license, b) I recently had a five second ride on a friend’s scooter that didn’t go well (fortunately it was more comical than disastrous), but the experience made it clear that if I were to be on a motorized bike I had better have a clue, and c) if there were a major emergency where roads were closed, having an alternate way to get around (like borrowing my son’s bike) may be a good thing to know how to do.

Being in this class allowed me to utilize a multitude of skills I have in my quiver – how to drive a manual car, how to ride a horse, how to operate a chain saw, and how to ride a bicycle/tricycle (OK, I haven’t really used that skill in a while)/ATV among others. Training also encompassed skills that were also like skiing or water skiing – swerving around and avoiding obstacles such as a dog chasing after the bike or items falling off of vehicles ahead.

The three-day, 15-hour course under the umbrella of the California Highway Patrol - California Motorcyclist Safety Program involved classroom instruction and 10 hours of actual riding in a parking lot. The class was designed for all skill levels - from those that had no experience (like me) to those who ride out on private property. The great part about this course is that it draws a diverse crowd interested in learning these skills. The youngest person in our course was 17, and the oldest was in his early 60’s. We had students from a 50 mile radius of the East Bay, including a man from India who had his license there but wanted to learn the laws of riding a motorcycle in the United States. There was a guy who rode dirtbikes for his entire childhood but wanted to learn how to ride a motorcycle on the streets. I got to take the class with my 23 year old daughter who has been itching to get her motorcycle license for years. It was nice to be able to talk over the skills learned that day with another person and ultimately celebrate when we both passed our tests.

One thing about riding a motorbike is there is a lot going on simultane-

Lafayette Police Motorcycle Competition and Car Show

Fifteen years ago, the United States of America and the world was rocked by the tragic events of 9/11. On September 10th and September 11th the Second Annual Lafayette Police Motorcycle Competition will be held in tribute to the fallen heros of this horrific event. The event will also honor local fallen brothers who died while defending and protecting others.

The Competition will take place from 8am to 5pm on September 10th and 11th at Stanley Middle School, located at 3455 School Street in Lafayette. A Car Show will be held on Sunday as well. There will be food trucks, vendors, classic cars, and exciting competition. Proceeds from the event will benefit www.ourfallen.org to provide immediate direct financial support to the survivors of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.

Please come out and meet some of your local everyday heros as they compete on their police motorcycle against others. For more information, visit www.lafayettepolicemotorcyclecompetition.com.

Lafayette City Council Nominations

Nomination papers for three seats on the Lafayette City Council are available at the City Offices, 3675 Mt. Diablo Blvd., Suite 210, Lafayette and must be filed by 5PM, Friday, August 12.

If one or more incumbents do not file nomination papers by the deadline, the filing period for individuals who are not currently City Council Members will be extended to Wednesday, August 17 at 5PM. The three, four-year seats currently held by Mike Anderson, Mark Mitchell, and Traci Reilly expire in November.

The General Municipal Election will be held on Tuesday, November 8.

For further information regarding the election process, contact Joanne Robbins, Lafayette City Clerk, at (925) 284-1968.

www.yourmonthlypaper.com ously, and you need to pay constant attention (which when operating any motorized device we probably all should be doing more of anyways).

A multitude of acronyms covered bike operation and safe riding. ONE-C addressed starting the engine - On, Neutral, Engine Cut-Off Switch, Clutch and Choke.

SPAT was used for once you get going - Speed, Position, Aim, and Turn. SIPDE addresses the mental steps to deal with hazards - Scan, Identify, Predict, Decide, and Execute. In reality, when operating a bike or car, these steps are important to whatever wheel we are behind. Everything involved being present and mindful.

The teachers were sticklers, especially with two basic rules - Be on Time for a punctual person this was fairly easy, but for some it was more difficult. I tend to refer to this rule as “The Plane is LEAVING.” Planes don’t tend to wait for anyone. You are either present or you miss your flight. It is fairly black and white. The second rule was Wear Supportive Shoes that Cover Your Ankles - It was in the initial literature, it was discussed in class the night before, and yet, two people in a group of 11 got sent home for that detail. Following details is just as important as following rules, and those individuals who chose to not pay attention to those details got sent home. It was too bad, but ultimately I probably wouldn’t have wanted them out on the course if they couldn’t pay attention to a couple relatively minor details.

I think this class will make me a better and more aware driver and refresh my road skills – heck, it’s been awhile since I have taken a written or practical driving test. I strongly recommend that anyone and everyone take the class. You do not have to go through getting your motorcycle license, but the skills you learn can do nothing but improve your driving and life skills.

To learn more about the class, visit www.2wheelsafety.com.

AAUW Lunch in the Vineyard Raffle

Which five friends would you invite to a fabulous fall lunch in a local vineyard?

The Orinda-Moraga-Lafayette Chapter of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is offering a wonderful opportunity to participate in a drawing for a memorable fall luncheon, while supporting scholarship programs for outstanding young women-graduates of local high schools and Saint Mary's college.

The luncheon will be held at a beautiful private vineyard in Moraga and will include an introduction to the winemaking process, a delectable menu and wine pairings from several local vineyards.

Raffle tickets for $20 each or three for $50 can be purchased by contacting Maryellen Judson at THJudson@aol.com. The drawing will be on August 22. The winner will have a choice of two Saturday luncheon dates: September 17 or 24!

For more information about the AAUW, visit http://oml-ca.aauw.net/ tech-trek/. AAUW has been empowering women since 1881.

Sons in Retirement Lamorinda Branch 174

Come join a social organization of retired and semi-retired men who enjoy leisure time with friends and activities. Activities include golf, bowling, bocce ball, table pool, travel, fishing, computers & technology, bridge, poker, pinochle, investing, wine tasting, walking, astronomy, stamp collecting, etc. We meet for lunch at 11AM the second Wednesday of each month at Holy Trinity Culture Center located at 1700 School Street, Moraga. The guest speaker on August 10th will be Larry Swindell. He will be sharing about his ironic relationship with Ronald Reagan in 1966 during Reagan’s candidacy for governor of California.

For attendance and membership info, call Tyler at (925) 284-5561.

Please visit the group’s website at www.branch174.sirinc2.org.

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Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 3

LAFAYETTE HAS JOINED CLEAN ELECTRICITY SERVICE PROVIDER, MCE

Starting this September, residents and businesses in Lafayette will automatically start cleaner energy service with MCE at competitive, and even lower rates compared to PG&E unless they choose another option.

How will this affect the energy service for Lafayette residents and businesses?

Lafayette residents and businesses can now choose their power sources. Prior to joining MCE, Lafayette had only one energy provider, PG&E. With the MCE Light Green service option, half or more of your energy usage is generated from renewable sources. For the typical home, the cost of this MCE service is slightly less than PG&E’s 30% renewable service. Lafayette residents and businesses may also opt up and choose MCE’s Deep Green 100% renewable energy service or opt out and choose PG&E’s 30% renewable energy service.

Is MCE more expensive than PG&E? No, MCE’s rates are slightly less than current PG&E rates. When Lafayette residents and businesses are enrolled in MCE service this September, the typical customer will automatically pay slightly less for 50% renewable energy compared to what they would have paid for PG&E’s 30% renewable energy. Customers in financial assistance programs like CARE, FERA, and/or Medical Baseline Allowance will continue to receive their discounts in–full without interruption with MCE.

Are MCE’s rates more stable than PG&E’s?

Yes. While PG&E tends to change its rates 3–5 times a year, MCE has never changed its rates more than once in a year since it’s started serving customers in 2010. MCE’s Board of Directors discuss, evaluate, and approve rates in public meetings that you are welcome to join.

Is MCE’s power cleaner than PG&E’s?

Yes, considerably! MCE puts more electricity from non–polluting, renewable sources like solar, wind, bioenergy, geothermal, and hydroelectricity on the electric grid, lowering energy–related greenhouse gas emissions. According to the 2015 California Energy Commission power content labels, MCE’s Light Green service is 52% renewable and 63% carbon–free, compared to PG&E’s 30% renewable and 59% carbon–free service.

Will my billing change?

No. PG&E will continue to send one monthly electric bill with MCE charges included. Instead of one fee that combines both electric delivery fees and electric generation fees, the bill will show separate charges — one for PG&E electric delivery and one for MCE electric generation. MCE’s generation rates will simply replace PG&E’s generation rates.

I have solar on my roof. How does this affect me?

At the time of your enrollment in MCE service, PG&E will initiate an immediate true–up — sending you a bill for all electric charges incurred since your last true– up and zeroing out any accrued credits. NEM customers may elect to enroll their accounts early or postpone their enrollment until later in the year to better align with their true–up date.

MCE offers one of the most generous Net Energy Metering (NEM) programs in California, and thousands of households and businesses are already benefiting. If you choose MCE, you’ll automatically be enrolled in our NEM program; there’s no need to reapply.

• MCE credits a premium rate (retail rate + $0.01 per kWh) for the excess electricity your solar panels produce during each billing period.

• Your MCE credits roll over continuously and are never zeroed out through an annual true–up.

• MCE offers you a check for the full amount of your NEM credit if your balance exceeds $100 at the end of April.

For more information about MCE’s NEM program, please visit mceCleanEnergy. org/nem.

What kind of organization is MCE? Who controls it?

MCE is a local, not–for–profit, public agency directly controlled by its member communities — like Lafayette. MCE member communities — not private shareholders — control their own energy choices. MCE is governed by a Board of Directors, comprised of elected officials from each of the communities it serves.

As an MCE Board Director, City Council Member Brandt Andersson represents Lafayette’s values in MCE’s decision–making. MCE’s Board of Directors is not paid for their role with MCE. MCE has been serving Bay Area electric customers since 2010. Today nearly 171,000 customers in Marin, unincorporated Napa County, and the cities of Richmond, Benicia, El Cerrito, and San Pablo are buying clean, renewable energy from MCE. American Canyon, Calistoga, Napa, St. Helena, Walnut Creek, and Yountville will also be joining MCE this summer.

30%

•

Li

n ree pG ee n D ree tG gh &E PG

50% • M CE

100 %•

MC E

Learn About Your New Electricity Options

Renewable Content

LIGHT GREEN 50% RENEWABLE

SAMPLE RESIDENTIAL COST COMPARISON1

Take no action and your 50% renewable energy service will start this September at slightly less cost than PG&E’s 30% renewable energy for the typical home.

PG&E 30% Renewable

Opt up to 100% renewable energy service online or by phone, for about $5 per month for the typical home.

PG&E 30% RENEWABLE

To continue buying your energy from PG&E, opt out of MCE online or by phone. Learn about PG&E options at pge.com.

To choose Deep Green or opt out, visit mceCleanEnergy.org or call 1 (888) 632-3674. Please have your PG&E account number on hand.

PG&E Additional Fees

‡

Electric Generation§

Total Monthly Cost

MCE Deep Green 100% Renewable

$49.43

PG&E Electric Delivery†

DEEP GREEN 100% RENEWABLE

MCE Light Green 50% Renewable

—

$11.04

$11.04

$44.84

$33.34

$37.97

$94.27

$93.81

$98.44

Based on typical usage (463 kWh) at the residential (E1 XB) current PG&E rates and MCE rates effective September 1, 2016. † PG&E electric delivery rates are the same for MCE and PG&E customers and are available at pge.com. ‡ PG&E additional fees (Power Charge Indifference Adjustment & Franchise Fee Surcharge): $0.02385/kWh. § PG&E generation rate: $0.09684/kWh; MCE Light Green generation rate: $0.072/kWh; MCE Deep Green generation rate: $0.082/kWh.

mceCleanEnergy.org/Lafayette

|

1 (888) 632–3674

Page 4 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

Volunteers Needed at Mt. Diablo State Park

There are several exciting volunteer opportunities at Mt. Diablo State Park over the upcoming months. Projects needing assistance are: • Maintaining and improving hiking trails throughout the park • Control of invasive plants, such as yellow star thistle • Repairing and repainting park facilities, such as fences, picnic tables, and outhouses Service projects out in nature tend be excellent team-building activities, and they can support feelings of cooperation and respect among school groups, community organizations, and co-workers. Projects can accommodate a range of participant ages and group sizes, and a work day for weekends or week days can be planned.

Volunteer Field Projects Coordinator can work with you and your organization to design a project that will make a significant contribution to our beautiful park, and that will be a fun and memorable experience for you and your organization.

For answers to questions and for more information, contact Silas Ellison at 925-837-6122, 925-837-6819, by cell phone at 617-335-6833, or by email at silas.ellison@parks.ca.gov.

TeleCare Connects with the Homebound

Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, have been making daily reassurance calls, Monday through Friday, to those in our community who are homebound.

As the chapter’s longest standing philanthropic program, TeleCare empowers the clients, no matter what their ages, to remain in their homes. What ensures this is a daily confidential journal kept for each client that member volunteers consult prior to the phone calls then update accordingly. Last year alone, member volunteers devoted 765 hours to connecting with homebound clients.

Unfortunately, many clients are socially isolated and don’t have anyone to check on them daily. Statistics indicate that loneliness can cause a 20% decline in health, a number that increases for seniors, the elderly and the homebound. TeleCare not only offsets that statistic, it ultimately serves as a safety net for clients and their families especially if volunteer callers are unable to reach the client.

If you live alone or know someone who does, a daily phone call would be a great way to stay connected with life and make new friends. Other TeleCare activities include attending an annual holiday party to meet fellow clients and member volunteers face to face, as well as receiving greeting cards from the Assisteens®, an auxiliary where kids learn to participate in a community service at a young age. To help, or for more information about TeleCare, please call (925) 934-0901.

Volunteer continued from front page

food—high quality, nourishing food (fresh meats, dairy, eggs, deli, baked goods). Most all of this food is distributed to those in need within two hours of the donation. In its first two and half years, WPE delivered more than 3,000,000 pounds of food (equivalent to 2,500,000 meals) that the hungry would have gone without. Also, in addition to rescuing food, WPE collects donations of new or like-new clothing, shoes, toys, games, and books. More than 250,000 of these items have been distributed to those in need in the past two years—all free of charge, through WPE’s unique “Mobile Boutiques” and its Direct Distribution program.

Peter Brooks, a White Pony Express volunteer, says, “One of the highlights of my week is picking up fresh produce (often organic!) from farmers markets, knowing that it will be going to people in our county who don’t have access to such nutritious, high quality food.”

Interested volunteers should contact Mandy Nakaya at 925-818-6361 or email mandy@whiteponyexpress.org. For more on WPE, go to www. whiteponyexpress.org.

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Church Provides Community Care

Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian’s Stephen Ministry has 25 trained lay people who provide ongoing, one-on-one Christian care to those in our congregation and in the community who are experiencing transitions in their lives. LOPC Stephen Ministry is confidential and is provided at no cost. A Stephen Minister is...

• A congregation member with a gift for listening, • A lay person who has received 50 hours training in providing emotional and spiritual care, • A committed caregiver who listens, cares, prays, supports, and encourages those who are hurting, and • Someone who will “be there” for his or her care receiver, meeting faithfully for about an hour each week, for as long as there’s a need.

Stephen Ministers are available for those who are dealing with illness or hospitalization, loneliness, aging, being shut-in, separation due to military deployment, death or serious loss, separation or divorce, disabilities, or grief and anxiety.

If you know of someone who would benefit from the ongoing confidential, no cost, spiritual, and emotional support of a Stephen Minister, contact Jean Lee at (925) 943-2237, or visit www.lopc.org/care_stephen_ministry.asp.

Diablo Choral Artists Seeks Singers

Love to sing? Come join Diablo Choral Artists as they begin an exciting new season! The group has openings for all voice parts (especially tenors/ basses). Rehearsals are held on Mondays at 7PM at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, located at 1924 Trinity Ave. in Walnut Creek. Call (925) 670-7089, e-mail info@vmschorus.org, or visit www.vmschorus.org for additional information.

Lost Dog!

$50 REWARD

If you find him and your name is drawn!

He is very small, so you will have to look hard if you want to find him.

Lafayette Luther is Missing He has become lost in this paper.

Send a letter telling us where you found him, along with your name and address to:

Lost Dog! Lafayette Today, 3000F Danville Blvd #117, Alamo, CA 94507

Aggie Malanca is our winner!

Luther was hiding on page 24 last month!

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

Assistance League Thrift Shop Features Asian Handicrafts

Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 5

For Lease ~ Orinda Beauty The dedicated member volunteers at Assistance League® Way Side Inn Thrift Shop, located at 3521 42 Oak Road Golden Gate Way in Lafayette, are devoting much thought while launching the Asian Handicrafts event scheduled for Tuesday, August 16 through Saturday, August 20. In so doing, you will find balance between soft neutral tones and bold, vibrant colors, as well as items made of lush, comforting fabrics and hardsurfaced materials.

Rich in history and tradition, you will also discover Just in time for school! Rent a beautiful 5 bedroom, 3 bath, tri-level home in desirable Asian-inspired home and garden accents that either Orinda. Ideal location: walk to BART or downtown. Only $5,900/month.

Call owners at 415-577-1225 or email patbetos123@yahoo.com. encourage you to reflect about life or celebrate its good fortune. Of a different The Lafayette School District is currently seeking applicants to serve dimension, the significance on the Measure C Bond Citizens’ Oversight Committee. Applications are of a teapot, associated available on the District website at www.lafsd.k12.ca.us or email Sharon with literature, the arts and Carman at scarman@lafsd.k12.ca.us for information. Applications philosophy, might enhance The Lafayette School District would like to extend its are due by September 9, 2016. your home. Likewise, you’ll deepest appreciation to the community for your support of find bronze castings, blue East Bay Energy Watch Helps Local and white ware, metalwork, Measure C. Businesses Upgrade Their Energy Efficiency statues, vases of various Lighting typically accounts for more than one third of the energy costs of a shapes and artwork, all of business, yet a large number of businesses are operating with outdated lighting These Asian-inspired treasures illustrate how medium, which will contribute to the systems. Simply upgrading to new, energy-efficient LEDs can reduce the lightline, and color work in concert with each other. mood of your surroundings. ing energy needs of a business by as much as 75% and save 40-60% in energy Also rich in history and tradition, your generous donations and purchases costs for lighting. The newer LEDs can also last for ten to fifteen years, far longer will help create a better life for those in our community who are vulnerable. than traditional incandescent bulbs. The LED technology has rapidly advanced To learn about the ten philanthropic programs that the Assistance League in recent years with many different types and colors of bulbs now available to Way Side Inn Thrift Shop funds, please visit diablovalley.assistanceleague.org. match or improve the current lighting of the business. No longer does a business need to sacrifice ambiance for energy efficiency.

Advertise in Your Community!

In order to assist local businesses in upgrading their energy efficiency and Lafayette Today is a hyperlocal paper delivered exclusively reducing their monthly utility bills, The East Bay Energy Watch (EBEW) was to the Lafayette, 94549 zip code. created. EBEW is a local government partnership between Contra Costa and Reach out to over 12,000 LOCAL homes and businesses.

Alameda Counties together with PG&E. The goal of EBEW for businesses is 925.405.6397 | www.yourmonthlypaper.com to provide both technical and financial assistance for becoming more energy efficient through simple and practical energy upgrades, like upgrades to lighting.

EBEW also assists businesses in making upgrades to HVAC, refrigeration and by installing free pre-rinse spray valves in commercial kitchens.

Collectively reducing our energy needs through committing to low-cost energy upgrades is one of the quickest ways that as a community we can reduce our carbon footprint. In addition, the savings reaped on the utility bill for making these upgrades can be significant to a business. All in all, there is very little reason for business owners to not upgrade their lighting.

Nonetheless, business owners can be overwhelmed running their businesses and often have no time to dedicate to researching and implementing energy upgrades. This is where EBEW can provide assistance. EBEW streamlines the energy upgrade process, and minimal effort is required on the end of the business to participate in the program. As part of the EBEW program, business owners first receive a free energy assessment where a trained professional visits onsite and provides a detailed cost, benefits and savings analysis for energy upgrades to lighting, HVAC and refrigeration. Pre-rinse spray valves are installed in commercial kitchens for free, saving both extensive amounts of water and energy. The owner can then decide if he or she would like to proceed with all of the proposed upgrades, some or none at all. Should the owner decide to progress with upgrades, EBEW will help the business secure vetted contractors and significant limited-time rebates, which typically cover 50-100% of the cost for the upgrades. These significant rebates are only valid until the end 2016, so it is essential that businesses investigate the program soon in order to reap the benefits. Most business owners enjoy a return on investment from the upgrades within the first year, but some are receiving return on investment almost immediately.

Sustainable Contra Costa is a local non-profit dedicated to educating, connecting and inspiring people to create and maintain sustainable communities.

Sustainable Contra Costa enthusiastically supports the East Bay Energy Watch and is assisting the County of Contra Costa to perform direct outreach to inform local businesses about the EBEW program. If you are a business owner in Contra Costa County interested in registering for a free energy assessment, contact ProAlamo Ace Hardware |3211 Danville Blvd., Alamo | 925-837-2420 grams Coordinator, Kat Atkinson, at kat@sustainablecoco.org for more details. www.AlamoHardware.com

Page 6 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

The Bookworm

By Joan Stevenson

Here is a question for the kids in Lafayette: When do you think the last unofficial day of summer is? Could it be August 21? That is the day before August 22, which is the first day of school for the Lafayette School District. And that, my friends, is right around the corner!

Here is the good news. There is still time to fulfill those summer items you had on your bucket list… the ones you looked forward to during the bleak fog of last winter. How many parks did you visit as part of our National Park Birthday celebration? Did you pick up a card to send to the library for our display? How many books did you read? What did you learn from the STEAM programs?

Below are a few fun August events happening before school starts.

Celebrate our Summer of STEAM related Summer Reading Festival as well as the National Parks Centennial on Thursday, August 11 at 2PM in the Children’s Room. We will discuss The Eye of the Grizzly, a story of Yellowstone National Park by Mike Graf mystery books, and make a craft to take home. All of his books take place in national parks. Pick up a Mike Graf book at the library front desk.

Have you ever been to a candy sushi and five-minute ice cream party?

No? Then here is your special invitation. On Saturday, August 13 at 2PM, come to the Arts & Science Discovery Center. You are invited to help make the featured creations. This is a free program for 6th-12th grade students.

Are you fascinated with rocks? We see rocks all around us: in road cuts, on trails, even sticking out of our yards. But what do we really know about them? The Northern California Geological Society is coming to the library on Wednesday, August 10 at 6PM to talk about the incredible diversity of rocks and tell some amazing geological stories. Come examine some interesting rock specimens. Please register for this event at the library.

While the younger set is busy trying to solve a Mike Graf mystery, there

www.yourmonthlypaper.com are opportunities for their parents and grandparents and other adults who hang out at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center. For a trip down memory lane, how about listening to tunes like “Stayin’ Alive,” “Boogie Shoes,” and “How Deep is Your Love?” I can hum along with you. But to really experience John Travolta and the Bee Gees again, be sure to come on August 18th to a showing of Saturday Night Fever at 6:30PM brought to the library by Diablo Ballet. Tickets $5 and refreshments will be served.

The Lafayette Book club meets Wednesday, August 24 at 7PM. Join our lively discussion group on the fourth Wednesday of each month. This month’s selection is Boy, Snow, Bird by Helen Oyeyemi - one of Amazon’s Best Books of 2014, it is described as a “gloriously unsettling” retelling of Snow White which promises to provoke robust discussion.

Looking ahead to the September calendar, you will not want to miss the next WOW (Wonders of the World) program on September 14 at 2PM to hear a docent review the Stanley Kubrick Exhibit at the Contemporary Jewish Museum.

Finally, for families that are getting ready for the world of academia to spin a g a i n , p l e a s e remember if you want to “raise a reader,” give them a head start with a library card.

They are free at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center.

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

In the ‘60’s, the Town Was Building Water Tunnels

By Ruth Bailey, Lafayette Historical Society

The headline in the August 26, 1966, Lafayette Sun read: “$5.5 Million Water Tunnels Will be Constructed Here; BART Picks Up the Tab” Nice that there was enough water coursing through town to require tunnels. Actually, it wasn’t a surfeit of water calling for the digging—it was the regular EBMUD supply lines that we still depend upon.

Here’s the story: “All precautions to prevent annoyances to Lafayette residents will be taken when the EBMUD constructs two 4,250-feet water tunnels. The project will start...at the east end of Lafayette in the vicinity of Brown Avenue.

“The project is being done in connection with the Bay Area Rapid Transit District and the State Division of Highways in order to make way for transit and highway construction. The new Lafayette aqueduct tunnels will be between Pleasant Hill Road and Brown Avenue, north of Hwy. 24.

“The relocation of the main water supply lines is needed to avoid possible hazards of pressurized aqueduct pipes near the downtown Lafayette station and the adjacent developments in conjunction with transit. One home on Pleasant Hill Circle has been purchased and removed to make room for the major project.

“EBMUD General Manager John McFarland said the job was ‘tricky’ and had to be performed ‘exactly to rigid specifications.’ The unusual soils and unstable rock in the area presented problems, he noted.

“The job will require compressors and blower equipment to be used in the tunnel. It will be completely enclosed by sound-deadening structures, said an official. The compressors will be electronically driven. Fumes aren’t to be released adjacent to residences, he added.

“Two holes, each with an 11-foot diameter, will be cut as deep as 300 feet below street level. Pipes with an internal diameter of 108 inches will be shoved into the tunnels.”

And there was other watery news from EBMUD a half-century ago.

The utility issued a report stating, “East Bay Water’s Lafayette Reservoir Recreation Area is the biggest ‘boy sitter’ in the county. That’s how Duane ‘Doc’ Mattison, EBMUD’s recreation division manager, describes the first 60 days of operations at Lafayette Reservoir.

“Dozens of carloads of boys are brought to the recreation area by their

Toastmasters

Develop Your Presentation Skills!

Goal Achievers Toastmasters meetings are held every Monday from 7:15 - 8:15pm at Atria Park Lafayette, located at 1545 Pleasant Hill Road.

Become the speaker and leader you want to be. The group is open to everyone aged 18 and up. For more information, visit http://goalachievers. toastmastersclubs.org.

Meals on Wheels

Seniors in our community need your support! Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services have been supporting seniors in YOUR neighborhood since 1968. Two of the programs, Meals on Wheels and Friendly Visitors, rely on the support of volunteers, and we need your help now more than ever.

Meals on Wheels volunteer drivers deliver meals to local homebound seniors through regular two hour shifts once per week or as substitute drivers.

Friendly Visitors volunteers provide weekly one-hour companionship visits to isolated seniors. To volunteer for either program, please call (925) 937-8311.

Lamorinda Peace and Justice

The Lamorinda Peace and Justice Group meets the fourth Tuesday of each month from 7 – 9PM in the Fireside Room of Lafayette Methodist Church, 955 Moraga Road, Lafayette. The group is committed to working to support a healthy planet, a thriving local community, and a safe, equitable world for all. For information, call (925) 946-0563.

Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 7 parents to spend the day,” Mattison said. “The boys, generally 10 to 15 years old, come armed with fishing tackle, lunch, and a dime to call home for transportation when they are ready to leave.”

“The two months since the June 13 opening have seen approximately 70,000 visitors fish, boat, sunbathe, hike and picnic at the beautiful blue lake nestled in the hills off Mt. Diablo Blvd., just west of the town of Lafayette.

The parking lot has served over 14,000 cars with plenty of visitor parking available at all times.” [How long has it been since you read a similar statement involving the constant availability of parking anywhere?]

Finally, there was a little item in the same paper that was both amusing and confusing. It read: “An application for zoning variance, including one for a sign in excess of the county ordinance, will come before the County Zoning Administrator. Bo-Wa-Do-Lo’s, a shop which handles hair styling and poodle grooming, in the Rancho Acalanes Area at the west end of Lafayette, is requesting a sign variance permit.”

Hair styling and poodle grooming? Maybe that referred to the poodle cuts popular during the ‘60s. Or, maybe it really did mean the stylist was set to take care of you and your pup. It would have been pretty convenient for mom, after dropping the boys off at the Reservoir, to take the girls and Fifi to the beauty parlor in the west end of town. Unless a former client clues us in, we’ll just have to wonder what it was all about in that uniquely-named shop.

Discover Saranap

By Erin Martin, Village Associates Real Estate

Recently I sent a listing in Saranap to clients who are looking to purchase investment property in Lamorinda. I explained to my clients that Saranap is bounded on the south and east by portions of Walnut Creek and on the north and west by Lafayette, but Saranap is a residential census-designated place. Some portions of Saranap have a Walnut Creek address but feed into Lafayette schools, and some portions feed into Walnut Creek schools.

According to Wikipedia “Saranap has had numerous opportunities to be annexed as either part of Lafayette, or of Walnut Creek. These have been largely resisted by the occupants, whose land use is governed by county rules. These include the ability to keep small aviaries and bees, which can be highly restricted by law in surrounding cities, and in newer neighborhoods by restrictive covenants.”

My clients were not impressed and told me that they wanted to find something in Lamorinda. During a Sunday tour I suggested that we go check out Saranap. My clients had never been to this neighborhood despite being extremely familiar with Lamorinda. We drove around and visited a home on the market.

They fell in love with the quaintness and the convenience to downtown Walnut Creek and Lafayette as well as Hwy 24. While many of you may know Saranap well, I have discovered that there are many local residents and buyers out there who do not know about this special neighborhood. Saranap feels undiscovered. In addition to the charm and central location, I’ve found that your dollar goes further in Saranap.

I cannot say enough good things about this neighborhood. Homes feed into Burton Valley or Parkmead Elementary – both are award winning.

The Burton Valley bus stops throughout Saranap and picks kids up for school, and many other families are in walking distance to Parkmead.

In addition, Hall Equities plans to develop Boulevard Way into a mixed-use village with residential uses and restaurants, services, and shops. Many residents would be within walking distance to restaurants, coffee, and other shops. The proposed project is controversial because of the height of the buildings and because of concerns about the overall affect on the neighborhood. I do think that the ability to walk to amenities will be such an amazing benefit to residents and to home prices in this neighborhood Please call or email me your real estate question. I can be reached at (925) 951-3817 or by email at erin@erinmartinhomes.com.

Advertorial

Page 8 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

Crayon continued from front page

dump even unopened boxes of crayons from patrons’ tables into the trash.

Five hundred thousand pounds of crayons reach landfills every year. Made of a combination of petroleum-based paraffin wax and pigment, crayons don’t biodegrade in a decade or even a century.

Ware wanted to rework that intolerable waste into a valuable resource.

“Being a supply chain guy,” Ware explains, “I knew there had to be something we could do with the endless supply of crayons. I knew it was going to be big, and now we’ve proven that crayon recycling is making a difference in children’s lives. This isn’t a small operation anymore. We are on track to donate 100,000 packs of crayons to hospitalized children across the country this year. This is just the beginning.”

What began as a moment of inspiration took two years to turn into a viable operation. After incorporating in May 2013, TCI finally achieved non-profit 501 (C) (3) status in January 2014. Along the way, many problems had to be solved.

How do you turn big batches of wax into crayons in a home kitchen?

How do you remove the paper? How do you manufacture a product that’s what pediatric hospitals want? Step by step, Ware answered each question.

Designed with the help of a physical therapist, TCI crayons don't roll off a hospital tray and don't break, making it easy for pediatric patients with limited mobility to exercise their creativity. Photo courtesy of TCI.

Manual scraping and solvents don’t work, but crayon wrappers can be easily removed from the melting pot with tongs. Any residue is strained out when the wax is poured into molds. Now TCI is working on turning that waxed paper by-product into useful commodities such as fire-starters or synthetic logs.

Extensive testing proved the melting process kills germs.

A physical therapist helped design a mold, shaping 96 crayons per batch into a chunky, easy-to-grip triangular shape that doesn’t roll off hospital trays. Ware tested various shipping methods and found an inexpensive way for The Crayon Initiative trailer is ready to bring crayons to collection points to 100,000 hospitalized children across the country in 2016.

Photo courtesy of TCI. ship crayons to TCI. Each of the custom-made molds produces enough crayons to supply 40,000 pediatric patients a year. A fundraising campaign to purchase additional molds costing $10,000 apiece (plus another $1,500 for accessory apparatus) is currently underway. Moving the manufacturing operation to a space able to accommodate a large induction range for melting wax is another goal.

Ware notes, “Early on, we asked hospitals, ‘Do you have a need for these crayons?’ Now hospitals who are part of the Children’s Hospital Association

See Crayon continued on page 18

www.yourmonthlypaper.com

Is Zika Virus a Threat to Contra Costa County?

By Candaces Andersen, Contra Costa County, District 2 Supervisor

As temperatures rise and mosquitoes begin to irritate once more, many are concerned about the risks we take when we go outdoors this summer.

Can these buzzing pests carry the Zika virus? Fortunately, research has shown that we in Contra Costa County can put our worries to rest.

Zika, a mysterious new virus first reported in Brazil, has been a critical concern this year. Zika is transmitted through mosquito bites, sexual contact, and blood transfusions and has become widespread across South and Central America. Zika’s symptoms, which are present three to seven days after initial exposure, include red eyes, rash, mild fever, and joint pain.

Only mosquitoes of the genus Aedes are capable of functioning as vectors of transmission for Zika and other illnesses such as malaria, Dengue fever, chikungunya, and yellow fever. The species that spread Zika are not found in Contra Costa.

Although many cases of infection are asymptomatic and go undetected, most of unease due to Zika is rooted in a correlation between Zika infections during pregnancy and birth abnormalities. In an observed group of 42 South American women infected with Zika virus, 12 infants were born with abnormalities. The most significant of these abnormalities was a condition known as microcephaly, or small head size due to irregular brain development. Zika has also been linked to Guillain-Barre syndrome, an autoimmune neurological disease.

Specific protocols must be followed if a Zika infection is confirmed.

When an infection is discovered in-state, the California Department of Public Health works with local health departments to make media reports, tightens mosquito surveillance and control in the surrounding areas of those infected, distributes public awareness materials, and sends female mosquitoes to the Davis Arbovirus Research and Training Lab for arboviral testing to discover if Zika carrying Aedes mosquitoes are present.

With all this information in mind, the California Department of Public Health has urged pregnant women to abstain from travel to countries with high Zika incidence rates or reported Zika outbreaks. If travel is unavoidable, precautions such as long sleeves and pants and the use of EPA registered insect repellents are strongly recommended. Women who are or even may be pregnant should be tested for Zika on return from travel in South or Central America. In addition, the CDC recommends waiting at least six months before trying to conceive if either partner has Zika symptoms and eight weeks if either partner has been exposed to the Zika virus.

Contra Costa County has had two positive travel related cases confirmed in February of this year. One person had traveled to South America and the other to Central America. Other cases of the virus in California have been identified in the San Diego, Los Angeles, and Yolo counties, bringing the total count of cases in California to 30. Only one of these cases was acquired in California itself. In San Diego County, a woman became infected following contact with a man returning from Colombia, but she recovered with no complications.

Chances of Zika transmission in Contra Costa County are low and can be completely avoided by following the guidelines provided by the California Department of Public Health and the CDC. For more information on Zika and Zika prevention, visit https://www.cdc.gov/zika/ or http://www.cdph. ca.gov/HealthInfo/discond/Pages/Zika.aspx.

My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon, and Orinda. Please don't hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos. cccounty.us or 925-957-8860.

Thank you to summer interns Clara Cabot and Annie Jeung for their contributions to this article.

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

Walking the Reservoir

Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 9

By Jim Scala

Wild Turkeys’ redeeming feature. People have complained about the noise of turkeys, their over abundance, and their blocking the exit.

But, they are the only bird that eats poison ivy plants. Getting rid of that plant is a redeeming feature.

Our birds, dragonflies, and butterflies.

Our senior walking group recently marveled at the heron nest. Young herons were walking on the tree branches, and Toni asked, “Where else can you see nature like that?” We soon spotted several types of dragonflies, including the almost invisible, fast Blue Dashers to the strikingly large Red Cardinal Meadowhawks that often sit on the reeds. Dragonflies are the fastest flying insects, can hover indefinitely, and easily fly backwards. They eat mosquitos and other noxious insects, making them an important insect. The dragonflies we see are near the end of an unusual life cycle that starts in the water.

While doing my yoga routine on the world’s best studio, our bandstand, I noticed many common Buckeye and several Painted Lady butterflies hovering around the various flowering shrubs. The Buckeye’s large eyespots scare predators away – they’re both beautiful and protective.

Fishing at the reservoir. My grandson, Blaine, and I met Dan and his daughter, Cameron, on the boat dock at 6:15AM Sunday morning.

We men were soon aboard a rowboat while Cameron took Dan’s kayak.

We headed for the reed-filled coves across the lake. Dan, Blaine, and Cameron were soon casting artificial bait and worms near the reeds. In short order Blaine and Cameron had bites. They soon landed two largemouth bass which Dan, after carefully removing the hooks, threw back.

They looked like nice eating, and I asked, “Why not keep them?”

Dan said, “We fish for sport, not food.” After more casting, bites, and returned fish, we left the reeds and went near the tower to seek some deep bottom catfish. Blaine got a bite and while trying to land the large catfish, his fishing lead broke. Unfortunately now, down there near the tower, there’s a catfish with a hook and a short length of leader hanging from its mouth. Our refreshing, active fishing morning was over by about 10:30AM. On his first Rim walk, Mark raised a cogent question. In this column, August 2014, I described Mark’s enthusiasm. He had grown up here and hadn’t walked the reservoir for 30 years. Our walk brought back many memories. He recently returned from Japan for a wedding and proposed taking his first Rim walk. We started at 8AM going clockwise, even though it means taking the toughest hills first. Mark enjoyed the views of Mt Diablo, Greek Peak, and the reservoir overview from the top of Hell Hill. As we walked and talked about many things, we couldn’t help but notice the pretty wild flowers that have grown up through the fire breaks, as well as many birds and small animals. He remarked that the abundance of small lizards look exactly like the famous Komodo Dragon cousins that are ten feet long. Our observation of the wildlife led Mark to ask, “Is there a monthly nature walk, or a talk by a naturalist, telling people what to look for as they walk?”

I wasn’t aware of any formal nature program, but it would be a great asset for people of all ages.

We enjoyed our one-and-a-half-hour Rim walk. Besides talking about the incredible scenery, Mark made another great point about our fine reservoir.

“This low humidity makes a Rim walk very enjoyable. A walk this hilly in Japan, with its high humidity, would be very uncomfortable.”

Rotary’s annual tribute to veterans. Our second concert of 2016, a salute to our veterans, was done in the traditional American way. At 5:30PM, master of ceremonies, Dan Ashley from ABC News, opened the program singing the Star Spangled Banner. We were treated to great country music by the Shakey Zimmerman acoustic trio and many old favorites by the Rossmoor Big Band. The Big Band has many young associates and the oldest and youngest trumpeters were 79 years apart in age. They did a duo and it was great.

A medical endorsement of our senior walking program. As the seniors

were preparing to start our Tuesday 9AM walk, a man I hadn’t seen before joined the group. As we walked, he told me he was diagnosed with early onset Alzheimer’s. A large body of research has shown that the equivalent of three res-walks weekly will do much to slow its onset. And that there is good conversation is an added benefit.

Let me hear from you: jscala2@comcast.net.

HairCare Professionals and MassageTherapists Needed Hospice of the East Bay provides care to terminally ill patients and their families in their homes or facilities throughout Contra Costa County. Many of our patients benefit greatly from a haircut or hair set or from the gentle and compassionate touch of a massage therapist. Would you be interested in volunteering a few hours a month to provide comfort to our patients? If so, please call the Volunteer Department at Hospice of the East Bay, (925) 887-5678. (License/Massage Certification Required).

www.yourmonthlypaper.com John Muir Land Trust (JMLT), which preserves Sustainable Lafayette Tip of the Month properties in Contra Costa County. JMLT’s Land Trusts 101 current project is acquisition of Carr Ranch,

By Pam Palitz just south of Lafayette and adjacent to EBMUD For those of us who call Lafayette home, we choose to live in this city for any watershed land. The private 604-acre property number of reasons such as great schools, proximity to work, and access to BART. features dramatic ridgelines and rock formations, Newcomers like the vibrant downtown. Old-timers found it affordable (hard as gorgeous valleys, and sweeping views. Once that is to believe in 2016) and raised their families here. And most residents, new acquired, Carr Ranch will be open to the public. and old, were attracted by the natural beauty of our neighborhoods.

The Land Trust Alliance, a nonprofit that Lafayette is spread out over several valleys: Hidden Valley, Happy Valley, supports land trusts throughout the nation, Burton Valley, and Reliez Valley. The downtown area is criss-crossed by a network of creeks and the riparian corridors that line them. Briones Regional identifies three main reasons to conserve land: • Unplanned development: Every day we lose more than 4,000 acres Park spans the entire northern border, and the Lafayette Reservoir and EBMUD of land to development. The U.S. population is projected to grow by 100 watershed lands occupy a generous chunk of the town’s southwest corner. The million, and the amount of land covered with housing, roads and shopping Acalanes Ridge is just east of the Pleasant Hill Road traffic corridor. Much of the parkland that surrounds us is permanently protected by public agencies malls will nearly triple by 2050. More than 80% of our population will live in metropolitan areas where open space will be increasingly precious. such as the East Bay Regional Park District and EBMUD. • Climate change: Forests, prairies, farmland, and other natural habitats But you can’t assume that a piece of property without a house or business absorb approximately 15% of the U.S.’s carbon dioxide emissions. on it will always stay that way. Just because your neighbor never sold or subLand conservation offers a double benefit for the climate. It not only helps divided a lot doesn’t mean that the next owner will leave it alone. You might get accustomed to seeing certain open spaces around Lafayette, but don’t jump absorb greenhouse gases, but it also prevents significant greenhouse gas emissions that would result from development — including deforestation, to any conclusions about their long-term future.

Since most of us don’t have the kind of bank accounts that would enable construction and the additional driving required by poorly planned growth.

• Loss of connection to nature: Today, most Americans are far less us to “save” land on our own, the most common method of land preservation connected to nature than our parents and grandparents were. One study found since the 1980s has been through use of a land trust. A land trust or land conservancy is a private, nonprofit organization that, as all or part of its mission, that while 70% of mothers recall playing outdoors every day when they were actively works to conserve land by undertaking or assisting in acquisition of growing up, only 30% of their children play outdoors every day. Adults, too, land or conservation easements. A conservation easement is a voluntary legal are increasingly disconnected from nature.

As Sustainable Lafayette launches its Lafayette Open Space Project to agreement between a landowner and a land trust or government agency that identify, protect, and preserve Lafayette’s open space lands, you are likely to be permanently limits uses of the land in order to protect its conservation values. hearing a lot more about land trusts and conservation easements. By initiating Among the best-known large-scale land trusts are The Nature Conservancy and the Trust for Public Land. Well-established local land trusts include Save this project, we hope to provide significant environmental, recreational, and Mount Diablo, which works to add acreage to Mount Diablo State Park, and the aesthetic benefits to our community.

Page 10 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

Quick Trips

Self guided architecture tour in Berkeley

By Linda Summers Pirkle

Zaha Hadid, a ground breaking architect who recently passed away at the age of 65, was “a force of nature, a pioneer,” according to a New York Times art and design column. Ms. Hadid, the article continued, was an Iraqi-born Brit whose buildings “elevated uncertainty to an art” where “geometry became in her hands a vehicle for unprecedented and eye-popping new space.” She was the first woman to win the Pritzker Prize, architecture’s Nobel, as well as the first on her own to be awarded the RIBA Gold Medal, Britain’s top architectural award in 2015. I would love to see her works in Wolfsburg, Germany, her modern art museum in Rome, and the aquatics center in London she designed. I so enjoy reading about architects and seeing their innovative and inspiring creations.

My friend Barbara is usually up for exploring the Bay Area, so when I suggested an architecture walking tour of the neighborhoods of Berkeley and Oakland, she happily accepted my invite. I brought along a delightful book called Berkeley Walks, by Robert E. Johnson and Janet Byron to our meeting place, Rick and Ann’s café (2922 Domingo Ave. Berkeley) which is located in the charming shopping center across from the Claremont Hotel. This delightful café has been in business for 26 years, and I have been a frequent patron since they opened. Benches outside are usually full with people waiting for a table (reservations are for six and over only), and Peet’s Coffee is right next door.

Iced coffee from Peet’s in hand, we headed out on “Walk Number 13,” the Rockridge to Claremont tour, one of 16 treks in Berkeley Walks. According to the authors, “Walking is in the fabric of Berkeley’s culture. When the city was designed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, planners included a network of about 140 public paths throughout the Berkeley hills, providing pedestrian with routes to retail and commercial areas...” I love this book because it is so easy to follow. The routes start out with an overview of the walk, there is an estimated time to complete the walk, the maps are easy to read, and my favorite part: there are spotlights on local architects and their works as well as a glossary of architectural terms.

Julia Morgan (1872-1957) is one of the architects spotlighted in the book.

Born in San Francisco, Morgan grew up and lived most of her life in Oakland. While working on a civil engineering degree at UC Berkeley, she met Bernard Maybeck who encouraged her to go to Paris to study architecture.

“Her renowned ability,” according to the authors, was to “borrow from different styles while forging her own, and she was meticulous about craftsmanship. Her designs could be extremely sensitive and subtle, as in many Berkeley homes, or flamboyant, as in Hearst Castle at San Simeon. She made particular use of local California styles, such as Mission Revival and Bay Area Arts and Crafts.” We took note of the Julia Morgan designed 1928 One of the homes on self guided architecture Italian Renaissance villa on at 2821 walking tour in Berkeley.

Claremont Boulevard. The authors point out the “lovely ornamental details, including Venetian Gothic tracery on the side windows (look through the gates from the corner), a front-doorway fresco, and wrought iron on the balcony.”

On our tour Barb and I discovered a lovely quiet narrow street lined with tall plane trees forming a complete canopy with Henry Gutterson designed residences at 2922, 2916, 2910 and 2904 Garber Street. If you continue to the crest you can see a mini version of San Francisco’s winding Lombard Street.

Our next adventure using the book Berkeley Walks will most likely be “Maybeck Country” (Walk Number 5) which highlights Maybeck creations, diverse historic architecture, and the lovely Rose Walk in Berkeley Rose Garden.

Berkeley Walks, Revealing Rambles Through America’s Most Intriguing City is published by Roaring Forties Press and can be purchased online or at your local bookstore.

Linda Summers Pirkle, inspired by the many wonderful places to visit in the Bay Area, organizes day trips, either for groups or for friends and family. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas email Coverthemap@gmail.com.

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

Pruning for Fire Safety

By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb

In the spring and early summer, the landscape grows lush and beautiful.

Our Mediterranean climate is blessed by sufficient winter rains to make plants grow, but our dry summers, and our even drier autumns, can make that new growth a fire hazard. In the greater Bay Area, we live surrounded by an ecosystem that has been shaped, over the last 10,000 years, by frequent wildfires. Because these woodland fires are inevitable, landscape trees, even healthy ones, require occasional pruning to prevent them from becoming fire ladders––bridges of flammable material that could carry flames from a woodland fire to your home.

The threat posed by fires in the greater Bay Area is real and significant.

The Oakland/Berkeley Hills fire of 1991 caused $1.7 billion in property damage, and it was the nation’s worst urban fire since the San Francisco fire of 1906. Failure to properly maintain landscape trees and shrubs played a significant role in allowing that fire to grow, intensify, and move. The Comprehensive Overview of the Berkeley/Oakland Hills Fire recommends that the risk of wildfire can be reduced by proper care of landscape plants: • Break up fire ladders.

• Limb trees back from structures.

• Reduce flammable biomass by thinning crowns.

• Remove dead trees and shrubs from the landscape.

• Remove deadwood from live trees and shrubs.

Breaking up fire ladders helps prevent a fire from moving easily from the woods, or from your neighbor’s property, to your house. To break up fire ladders, increase the space between plants, both vertically and horizontally.

In the 1991 fire, blowing brands of flammable material landed on ground plants and, if there was sufficient dry matter, caught the ground cover on fire. The fire burned along the ground plants horizontally for as long as it found material to burn. If it encountered trees with low branches, the fire

Gardening with Kate

Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 11 would move vertically from the ground up into the crown of the tree. If those burning trees were close to a house, they would set the house on fire. If their crowns touched the crowns of other trees, the fire spread from crown to crown.

Landscape plants pose little fire hazard when they are properly maintained, and proper maintenance does not mean sacrificing a natural, woodland aesthetic. If the limbing up, dead-wooding, and crown thinning are done by a craftsman with a sensitivity to plant aesthetics, then the trees will look natural, even though they may have had 30% of their biomass removed. Knowing how to identify potential hazards is important, but it is also NEW YEAR CARPET important to know how to reduce those hazards in •NEW FLOORS! a manner that keeps your property looking natural • HARDWOOD and which doesn’t sacrifice important screening RUGS plants. Brende & Lamb specializes in balancing • CARPET the conflicting needs for privacy, fire safety, tree • HARDWOOD CUSTOM RUGS health, and landscape aesthetics. It is possible to • RUGS LINOLEUM improve the fire safety of your property while • LINOLEUM TILE promoting the health and beauty of your plants.

Tree care is a craft requiring study and experience. Our trimmers are master craftsmen who Family Owned Business understand that a well-pruned tree should not only Since 1989 be safer and healthier, it should look beautiful as 3344 Mt. Diablo Blvd. well. At Brende and Lamb we take great pride in Lafayette, CA both the science and the art of pruning.

925.284.4440 If your trees need a little TLC, please call 510486-TREE (8733) or email us at bl@brendelamb. www.LamorindaFloors.com License# 708486 com for a free estimate. Additionally, go to our website www.brendelamb.com to see before and after pictures, client testimonials, and work in your neighborhood.

Advertorial

Great color this time of year can be found in ‘Profusion Zinnias.’ These are the lower growing varieties and come in white, golds, hot pink, oranges,

By Kathleen Guillaume and reds. They look best planted in clumps of 3, 5, or 7 in places that will Now is the time to harvest all those vegetables catch your eye. Nicotianas are also one of my favorites, especially the and tomatoes and to enjoy the last lazy days of lime green ones with a halo of lobelia at their base. There is nothing more summer. While we may at times feel a little too pleasurable that you can buy for just under $5. Something equivalent to the warm, all we have to do is think of the ‘heat dome’ price of one fancy coffee will give you weeks and weeks of eye candy. most the rest of the country has been suffering under This is also the time of year to survey your garden and to start thinking of to feel a little grateful. any perennials you might want to add this fall. While planning, consider that Potted plants suffer the most in our summer months, many of the perennials, like penstemons, yarrows (Achilleas), asters, and phlox, often having the soil dry out completely except for a that you have in your garden are toward the end of their bloom cycle and can be thin crust of moisture on the top. Make sure you check the soil in your pots divided in the cooler fall days and disbursed around your garden. I always roam frequently in warm weather. I use a narrow spade to dig down and check the friends’ gardens on the outlook for perennials that they might share when they moisture. Pots dry out the most on the afternoon sun side of the pot. The best divide them up in the fall, and I trade some of my iris rhizomes for a clump of way to deal with this is to get a large galvanized bucket. I have one a little wider their yarrow. Gardens are most fun when as you walk through them you can see than 2.5’ and about 1’ deep. These are available at smaller hardware stores like plants you have gathered through friends. I have a rose that my friend Dariel Ace. These make a perfect soaking pan. Fill it about 1/3 way full of water and Alexander gave me, and I always smile when I pass it. place any stressed pots inside, then water each pot from the top. Let them sit in Gardens to me are always places of memories. I plant things from my the pan for 5-12 hours, and repeat with each pot. This allows water to slowly childhood days that my Grams had in her garden, and the scents and sight of soak up through each pot. I do this twice a month with my smaller pots and once them take me back to that place where I made mud pies which I would dry on a month with the larger pots. This deep soaking method uses less water than her back porch steps. overhead sprinkling. I also use this time to make sure that roots are not plugging Right now the brightest thing in my garden is a low growing lantana up the drainage holes, a sure sign that it is time to repot.

Radiation I planted this spring. It is now three feet across and has so many This is also a good time to prune fruit trees such as cherry, apricot, and blooms that I can hardly see its foliage. Its slightly off-putting smell when peach. Take off approximately 1/3 to 1/2 the length of every branch you tread upon or cut reminds me of my Grams. My grandparents had a side want to keep. Remove all waterspouts -- those vertical branches that shoot drive that lead to their kitchen where my Gramps parked his truck. They straight up. Remember when you prune to always find a leaf bud nodule had a lantana hedge that grew about 5’ high that blocked the truck from the along the branch and cut at a diagonal just above it. After fruit has been neighbors’ view. As I walk by my plant, I am taken back to that place of my harvested, the tree’s chemistry sets the fruiting buds for the following year, childhood that fills my heart. so all of next year’s fruiting will occur below those cuts.

I wish you a wonderful month of gardening. Remember we are at the I am always a fool for color. It lifts my spirit and brings me joy, so height of fire season, and much of Lafayette has a high fuel load that we whenever I visit a nursery I always pick up a few six packs of annuals. Plan need to have a plan in mind in case of a fire...somehow when people are your purchase times with the weatherman...you want to plant with a few prepared they are never tested. days of milder weather in the forecast.

Happy Gardening

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Page 12 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

Life in the Lafayette Garden Garden Architecture

By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect #4059

What is “Garden Architecture?” Garden = a plot of ground where plants, vegetables, and flowers are grown. Architecture = the art and science of designing and constructing buildings and hardscape.

I approach your Lafayette landscape design with “Garden Architecture” in mind. The two design fundamentals brought together in a creative and cohesive design make up your landscape environment. Successful landscape design is a good balance of both. The approach I take is to focus on the “architecture” initially. The “architecture” defines the design. It creates structure with the borders, edges, views, and function of the “softscape.” Structures serve as background for people and plants. A focal point deserves significant detailing. Background structures don’t. Scale and proportion are important. Structures need to be scaled appropriately and in proportion to the surrounding environment. The outdoor environment allows for larger scale than the indoors. Measure the scale of structures by keeping in mind existing large scale trees, distant horizon lines, adjacent properties and views, and buildings.

Architecture provides the bones to any landscape design. They provide ongoing significance throughout the season while the “softscape” changes from season to season. In general, “hardscape” structures include the floor of the landscape (patios, decks, paths), steps and grade changes, enclosures and ceilings (pavilion, cabana, arbor, pergola, gazebo), walls (retaining, seat walls, benches), fences, buildings (cabana, pool house, potting shed, storage shed), use and recreation (swimming pools, sports court, bocce), and focal points (water features, bridges, garden ornament, gates, trellises).

The purpose of any structure in the landscape design is function and form.

What function will any particular structure perform? In other words, what do they do? Those hot summer days in the Lafayette garden demand the need for shade and those long cold gray winters when deciduous trees drop their leaves, give you bones. Arbors or pergolas are “Garden Architecture” that can fulfill that function.

What do they do? They provide shade in the summer and structural bones in the winter!

A structure can have several functions.

For instance, an arbor can define a portal or an entry into a garden room, or it can frame a view beyond. The form an arbor takes is an open structure usually with plants or vines climbing over it to form a portal or tunnel. An arbor can be built to take on any form that suits your design style. It can be as simple as an arched gate with climbing clematis or a bold design with four twelve-inch round Corinthian columns with rough hewn beams above heavily laden with Wisteria.

Depending on the scale and architectural styling of your home and the design theme of your landscape, an arbor has many different forms it can take while performing the same function.

A pergola as defined here is a free-standing overhead structure supported by posts or columns. The material that provides the shade may vary from lattice, wood beams, to vines. All can provide shade depending on how much you wish to have. Pergolas generally are a more significant structure because of the function. Often, a pergola becomes a garden room or enclosure in the garden, a gathering place for people, and a focal point. “Garden Architecture” brings form and function to any successful landscape environment.

A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: Built structures must be executed with proper construction techniques which are ensured through

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proper design, construction details and specifications, and on-site observations during the construction process. Landscape architects are tested and licensed by the state to design garden architecture.

Gardening Quote of the Month: “One of the most delightful things about a garden is the anticipation it provides”. ~W.E. Johns If you would like me to write on any particular subject, email your ideas to jmontgomery@jm-la.com or for design ideas visit www.jm-la.com or www. houzz.com/pro/jmla/john-montgomery-landscape-architects.

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Local Author Writes UC Berkeley Literary Suspense

Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 13

By Christine Sunderland

An early baby-boomer, I grew up in Berkeley, Orinda, and Lafayette. My father, Carl Thomas, was the founding pastor of the Lafayette-Orinda Presbyterian Church in the ‘fifties, and I have early memories of meeting in the Lafayette Park Theater and the old Town Hall. I had a wonderful childhood growing up in Orinda and Lafayette and, being raised in a pastor’s family, I was steeped in poetic cadence, powerful language, and salvific story and image. My father died of ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) in 1981, and I remembered him in the portrayal of the professor in The Fire Trail who is dying of ALS. Fast forward fifty years and I found myself traveling in Western Europe and keeping meditative journals, stunned by the history of the Western world. From those travel journals emerged my first three novels, Pilgrimage, Offerings, and Inheritance, set in Italy, France, and England, dealing with the history of the West found in its churches and shrines.

My fourth novel, Hana-lani, was born on its own, not relying on journals. The heroine, a fast-paced city girl, must recover from a plane crash in a rural community on Maui, where she faces life choices and the meaning of love. In The Magdalene Mystery, the fifth novel, I returned to European settings, in a quest to find the real Mary Magdalene in Rome's basilicas and Provencal grottos.

In my research and writing I developed a keen appreciation for the connection between past and present, Doors | Windows | Blinds & Shades | Home Automation and the importance of knowing how our culture arrived at this moment in time. I sense, as do many, America is on fire. We face daily threats to peace, to liberty and law, Visit Our Alamo freedom of speech and worship, to honoring the dignity of every person regardless of race, gender, handicap, age. UC Showroom Berkeley, the home of the Free Speech Movement, seemed 3221-B Danville Blvd a perfect setting to explore America’s cultural collapse and the definition of civilization. And Berkeley was one of my Alamo, CA 94507 home towns as well as where I serve as Managing Editor for

By Appointment Only American Church Union, a small Anglican publisher. My office is a block from campus, an easy commute from Alamo where I live today with my husband and two amazing cats.

In The Fire Trail (eLectio Publishing, May, 2016), UC Berkeley grad student Jessica Thierry walks the Fire Trail in the hills and witnesses a rapistmurderer leave the scene. Fearing for her life, she focuses on her doctorate about Christianity’s role in Berkeley's history. She meets grad student Zachary Aguilar who searches for goodness, beauty, transcendence, and truth as he strives to protect her from the killer.

Jessica is hired as Assistant Docent at Comerford House Museum where she meets Armenian Pastor Nathaniel Casparian. Disfigured by burns, resident caretaker of Comerford, Father Nate looks after his dying brother who is writing The Question of Civilization.

As Jessica writes her dissertation discussing the benefit of the Presentation Sisters to Berkeley history, she works alongside Anna Aguilar, Comerford’s docent, who vets violent novels donated to her children’s library. Frightened by rising crime, Anna is encouraged by Nate’s belief in a return of the Judeo-Christian tradition of peace and freedom to the public square. As the killer draws near, as local crime increases, and as terrorism escalates, The Fire Trail draws these four characters to a dramatic conclusion.

I’ll be reading from The Fire Trail at Orinda Books, September 17, from 3-5PM. The novel is carried by Orinda Books, Rakestraw Books in Danville, the Berkeley Historical Society, and online retailers. Visit me at www.ChristineSunderland. com and the The Fire Trail’s Facebook page, “The Fire Trail, by Christine Sunderland.”

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Page 14 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

Cinema Classics and Musical Notes The Third Man

By Peggy Horn

This month’s recommended film is, The Third Man, (1949) directed by Carol Reed and starring Joseph Cotten, Alida Valli, Orson Welles, and Trevor Howard.

It was nominated for Academy Awards in 1950 for Best Editing and Best Director, and it won the Award for Best Black and White Cinematography. It also won the 1949 Grand Prix at the Cannes Film Festival and the British Academy Award for Best Film. The screenplay, written by Graham Greene, was developed into a novel subsequent to the release of the movie.

The Third Man is British film noire. Film noire generally refers to mystery and crime dramas from the early 1940’s to the late 1950’s. Filmed typically in black and white, they feature so-called femmes fatales and cynical detectives. The plot involves Hollie Martins (Joseph Cotton), a writer, who arrives in Vienna, Austria after the end of World War II to accept a job offered to him by his good friend, Harry Lime (Orson Welles). When Hollie arrives, he is told of the death of Harry Lime in an automobile accident, but is he really dead? The movie twists and turns through Vienna’s underworld as Hollie searches for the truth and ends in a famous chase scene through Vienna’s sewer system.

The Third Man is beautifully filmed in black and white, resulting in gorgeous portraits of its characters, and the striking contrasts of light and dark add to the mood of the scenes. In some cases the black and white effects startle the viewer, and in other cases they serve as moving tributes to life itself.

This movie is considered a great movie and is definitely worth seeing. In addition to being extremely well made, the plot is intriguing in part because of the time period in which it takes place.This clever movie is thought provoking and a visual treat as well. See if you agree.

Musical Notes

Part of the movie’s charm is the brilliant musical score composed by Anton Karas, played on the zither by the composer himself. Mr. Karas was discovered by the director, Mr. Carol Reed, and together they developed the soundtrack for the movie. “The Third Man Theme” was released as a single and went to the top of the international music charts in 1950.

Brainwaves by Betsy Streeter

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Summer Through Rosé Colored Glasses

By Monica Chappell

Summer is in full swing, and the opportunity to enjoy rosé wines is at its peak. During the warmer months, unfussy rosés are bursting with red fruit flavors and pair with a variety of foods, especially foods from the grill. If I had to choose but one summer wine to accompany a variety of lighter grilled foods, I know what I’d choose in a heartbeat.

Here are a few pointers to get you into top rosé shape. #1 First and foremost, there’s no shame in drinking pink wine. Despite how far we’ve come with wine education, rosé still takes a lot of sass from wine snobs. #2 Mixing red and white wine together is not how you make rosé. These wines are made from red wine grapes fermented just a short time with their skins. Colors range from light salmon to bright pink to medium-deep rose.

The length of time the juice is in contact with the crushed skins determines not only the final color of the wine, but to a certain extent the amount of tannin extracted from the skins and seeds as well. #3 Rosés are wonderful food wines and are especially suited to dishes featuring bold Mediterranean flavors. These pink beauties can pair with a wide variety of foods depending on the varietal and style of the wine. Just make sure you give it time to chill before drinking (like you would with a white wine). It’s the perfect barbecue wine, the perfect beach wine, and the perfect picnic wine. #4 Rosé can be made anywhere in the world, from almost any grape and therefore spans the style spectrum. Because rosé refers to the color of the wine, as opposed to a specific grape variety, the wine can be made from a variety of red grapes and their blends. #5 Very important: when shopping for rosé, you’ll need to ask if the wine is dry or sweet. With the variety of grapes used to make rosé, the character of the wine ranges from light and fruity to medium bodied with hints of tannin.

You won’t know which style it is unless you ask. #6 You shouldn’t pay more then $20 a bottle. Rosés are usually a bargain, especially compared with red wines. They’re also still underappreciated/ undervalued, which explains why French rosé is still affordable despite the fact that most French imports are pretty pricey. #7 Do try rosé wines from California, Spain and/or Italy, but especially try those from Provence, France. Provençal rosé (made in southern France) tends to be very pale pink, sometimes salmon-colored. The tasting notes that you hear most often for these wines are strawberry, raspberry, and citrus.

Now go get some rosé.

Monica Chappell, local wine writer and educator, can be reached at wineappreciation101@gmail.com.

Hospice Volunteers Needed

Hospice of the East Bay is seeking volunteers to assist Hospice patients and their caregivers. Opportunities include: • Licensed Hair Stylists to offer hair cuts and styling • Certified Massage Therapists to provide massage therapy • Administrative Support Volunteers to assist in the Pleasant Hill office • Thrift Shoppe Volunteers to work in one of the organization’s five stores which are located in Alamo, Concord, Martinez, Danville, and Walnut Creek.

• Bereavement Support Volunteers to provide support to family members after their loved one has died • Patient Support Volunteers to provide companionship and practical assistance To apply for free training, call Hospice at (925) 887-5678 and ask for the Volunteer Department, or email volunteers@hospiceeastbay.org.

Established in 1977, Hospice of the East Bay is a not-for-profit agency that helps people cope with end of life by providing medical, emotional, spiritual, and practical support for patients and families, regardless of their ability to pay.

To learn more or to make a donation of time or money, please contact (925) 887-5678 or visit www.hospiceeastbay.org.

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Technology Matters

By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO

I’m always hunting for good analogies to explain the way we approach technology, so I’ll try this idea and see how it works. I’m old enough to remember TV’s when there were only a few channels to watch, and we had rabbit ear antennas. Remember when we’d turn the channel dial on our TV, and then we would turn that second ring around the dial that helped fine-tune our channel from fuzzy to crisp? That’s what we do at PCIO; we fine-tune your environment, making your network and systems crisp and responsive. We take a holistic approach based upon the premise of MASS. MASS stands for manageable, available, scalable and secure. That’s the yardstick by which we measure every recommendation we give you.

At a typical smaller firm, someone generally inherits the IT “mantle” because they have a bit more experience with computers than their coworkers. Typically, they’ll buy some computers, get some accessories or consumer-grade networking gear at Best Buy or Fry’s, then put it all together. Voila, they’re heroes! This has worked OK, and with a lot of folks that’s been the extent of their IT. However, in today’s computing environment with the number of online criminals trying to access your computers, encrypt your files, and steal your money and identity, it’s no longer enough. The game has changed, and our team is playing defense. If you think you’re protected and safe because you have antivirus, it isn’t enough.

The bad guys are endlessly innovative, and to protect you we collectively need to do more. We need to build more blocking layers between them and your systems. The challenge is implementing these changes as quickly and unobtrusively as possible, and to continue to adapt as the landscape shifts.

I’m not an alarmist, nor do I want to deal in scare tactics to motivate people.

Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 15 However, one could argue that a little more awareness might motivate folks to start engaging instead of ignoring their situation. It’s difficult for people to hear that it’s not a matter of “if” you get hit, it’s a matter of “when.” When we say that, we’re not trying to be negative, we’re being real. There is simply no way to avoid being exposed to the hacker element, because they’re into everything. If you use the web, you’re exposed. For instance, becoming infected is as easy as going to your favorite news website that runs advertisements on the page. We know that a percentage of those ads are infected, and we won’t know which ones, but we only have to be on the page at the same time as an infected ad to become infected. And, there is a good chance your antivirus won’t pick it up. You’ve done nothing wrong, but the next thing you know all your files are destroyed, and you’re calling for help.

Why is this happening? The first reason is money. The second reason is because it will always be easier to destroy than to create. And, this is not a “PC thing” or a “Mac thing”: it’s an “everyone” thing. The criminals don’t really care which computing platform you’re using, because they write their code for all platforms. To them, ransomware is a business, and we are their unwilling “customers.” The only question is whether you’ve implemented strategies to make it harder for them to succeed and to recovery from a disaster when it happens.

Our goal is to manage your technology better, faster, and cheaper than you can do it for yourself with your own staff. We’re at our absolute best when we take over your IT function and run it like our own. We have the knowledge, tools, and staff, and a long list of actions we take to make your systems run well and your network perform better. We build layers of protection and offer remediation in times of crisis. Our tag line is ‘Technology.

Simplified.’ If we do our job, we enable you to do yours without worry.

Technology definitely has a role in today’s world, and we want that role to be as powerful and cost effective as possible. The first question to ask yourself is “How well protected am I?” If you’re not sure of where you stand, let us help you sleep better with a site survey and report. Give us a call and we can chat about your situation, and make plans for your technology management. You can reach us at info@ pcioit.com, or 925-552-7953.

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Page 16 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

Do You Know Where Your Retirement Savings Are?

By George M. Noceti, CRPS® -Wealth Advisor and Paul A. Noceti, Financial Planning Specialist with The Integra Group at Morgan Stanley

By the time many of us reach our 40s and 50s, we’ve accumulated a slew of retirement accounts: A traditional IRA here, a rollover IRA there, and two or three scattered 401(k) accounts left in the plans of former employers. As the accounts add up, it becomes extremely difficult to get a clear picture of your overall retirement preparedness.

If this sounds familiar, you may benefit from consolidating your retirement accounts into one central account. Consolidating accounts can help you make sure your savings are invested appropriately for your overall goals, track the performance of your holdings and, in some cases, discover more investment choices and incur lower fees.

Streamlining the account structure of your retirement savings has many potential benefits: Comprehensive investment strategy. Over time, your investment objectives and risk tolerance may have changed. Thus, it can be difficult to maintain an effective retirement investment strategy - one that accurately reflects your current goals, timing and risk tolerance - when your savings are spread over multiple accounts. Once you begin the consolidation process, you can strategize potential investment options to match your current goals and objectives.

Potentially greater investment flexibility. Often, 401(k) plans, other employer-sponsored retirement programs and even some IRAs have limited investment menus. Some IRAs may offer greater control, more options or expanded diversification when compared to employer plans and other IRAs, but on the other hand they might not offer the same options. Whether a particular IRA’s options are attractive will depend, in part, on how satisfied you are with the options offered by your former or new employer’s plan.

Simplified tracking. It is easier to monitor your progress and investment results when all your retirement savings are in one place. By consolidating your

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Contact us at 925.405.6397 or editor@yourmonthlypapercom

Search and Rescue

The Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Search and Rescue Team needs volunteer members to respond to missing person incidents, disasters, and other critical incidents. Team members are on call 24/7 year-round. The program provides required training; including wilderness traveling, first aid, map and compass usage, tracking disaster response, and search skills; and may also include special training for canine, equestrian, technical, mountain bike, or other rescue skills.

For information and applications, visit www.contracostasar.org or call 925-646-4461.

www.yourmonthlypaper.com accounts, you will receive one statement instead of several—which will cut down on endless amounts of monthly statements from multiple plans.

Monitoring costs. Reducing the number of accounts may impact account fees and other investment charges. Generally speaking, both employersponsored qualified plans and IRAs have plan or account fees. Although fees associated with an IRA may be higher than those associated with an employer plan, consolidating multiple IRAs may reduce your overall expenses.

Penalty tax-free withdrawals. Generally IRA owners can take distributions penalty tax-free once they attain age 59 ½. Qualified plan participants between the ages of 55 and 59 ½, once separated from service, may be able to take penalty tax-free withdrawals from the qualified plan.

Clear required minimum distributions (RMDs). Once you reach age 70 ½, having fewer retirement accounts to manage can mean having fewer RMD requirements to follow.

Comprehensive knowledge of your assets. If your employer-sponsored retirement plan is terminated or abandoned (an “orphan plan”) or is merged with or transferred to a retirement plan of another corporation after you leave, it may be difficult to locate the plan administrator to request a distribution of your benefits or to change investments. By contrast, assets in an IRA are always accessible if you want to change your investment strategy or need to take a distribution.

There are of course, some situations where you may not want to consolidate.

For example, while many qualified plans allow for loans, you cannot take a loan from an IRA. Assuming your qualified plan allows a loan once you’ve left the company (a very rare occurrence), it’s worth noting you will not be able to take out a loan once you roll over a qualified plan into an IRA. Consolidation means simplifying.

The case for consolidating your accounts only grows more compelling with time. By simplifying your retirement account structure, you can have a clearer picture of your financial plan and potentially expand your investment choices.

Reach out to me with any questions, and I can help.

For further information on how our advice can better help you with retirement planning, as well as a complimentary Medicare Review, Social Security Review and understanding the new SS rules, 529 Plans, and a Financial Plan Review, please contact us at George M. Noceti, CRPS® Wealth Advisor at (925)746-2982, via email at george.noceti@morganstanley. com, or visit our website at www.ms.com/fa/theintegragroup. Connect on LinkedIn: George M. Noceti, CRPS®. Follow me on Twitter: @GNocetiMS. Sources/Disclaimer: By law, some IRAs may not be consolidated. Clients should consult their personal legal advisor. Tax laws are complex and subject to change. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”), its affiliates and Morgan Stanley Financial Advisors and Private Wealth Advisors do not provide tax or legal advice and are not “fiduciaries” (under the Internal Revenue Code or otherwise) with respect to the services or activities described herein except as otherwise provided in a written agreement with Morgan Stanley. Individuals are encouraged to consult their tax and legal advisors regarding any potential tax and related consequences of any investments made under an IRA. This article does not address state and local income taxes. The state and local income tax treatment of your retirement account, as well as the contributions to it and the distributions from it may vary based on your state of residence. You should consult with and rely on your own independent tax advisor with respect to such.

This material does not provide individually tailored investment advice. It has been prepared without regard to the individual financial circumstances and objectives of persons who receive it. The strategies and/or investments discussed in this material may not be suitable for all investors. Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC recommends that investors independently evaluate particular investments and strategies, and encourages investors to seek the advice of a Financial Advisor. The appropriateness of a particular investment or strategy will depend on an investor’s individual circumstances and objectives. Diversification does not assure a profit or protect against loss in declining financial markets. © 2016 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. Advertorial

Group Helps People Cope with Death of Pets

When you lose your pet, you often feel like a part of you is lost. The death of your beloved animal companion is one of the most difficult losses you may ever feel. This loss is sometimes made more painful by society’s seeming lack of support for pet grief.

Hospice of the East Bay and the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation is offering a support group where participants can share memories and feelings and talk to others who truly understand and care. Meetings will be held the second Tuesday of each month from 5:30-7PM at the Tony La Russa Animal Rescue Foundation, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek.

For further information and/or to register, please call Bereavement Services at Hospice of the East Bay (925) 887-5681.

Hospice of the East Bay Bereavement Services are provided free of charge to all community members in need. However, donations are greatly appreciated.

Lic# 1100014354; Bay Area Entertainment

Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 17

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Tax-Wise Gifts to Young Loved Ones

By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.

ENJOY MORE AT

If you have achieved a certain level of wealth, you have likely made, or have considered making, lifetime gifts to minor (or young adult) loved ones. You would commonly make gifts to a minor by: a) establishing a custodial account; or b) (if you aren’t the parent of the recipient) gifting money to the parent of the minor - so the parent can use the funds for the benefit of the minor.

The manner in which you make gifts to your loved ones has important tax and non-tax consequences. On the tax side, Federal Estate Tax is payable on your death at the rate of 40% multiplied by the amount of your net assets, if any, that exceeds $5.45 million (indexed annually for inflation).

Thus, gifting tax-efficiently is particularly important for those with considerable wealth.

Accordingly, when you contemplate gifting to minor or with Full Kitchens and young adult loved ones, you should obtain legal and tax Washers & Dryers! advice about applicable tax rules and implications. One key rule is that you may gift up to $14,000 per calendar year to any number of people without: i) needing to file a Federal Gift Tax return; or ii) using up any of your Federal Gift Tax exemption or Federal Estate Tax exemption (i.e. amounts you are able to give away Gift Tax free during your life and Estate Tax free on your death). These are known as “annual exclusion” gifts.

Opening a custodial (UTMA) account is simple. The funds are controlled and distributed by the designated custodian for the benefit of the minor. Upon turning 18 years old (or in some instances up to 25), the minor is automatically entitled to all remaining account funds. The serious non-tax problem associated with custodial accounts is one of control. When the funds are turned over to your loved Call today to schedule one, he may not use the funds responsibly. Accordingly, people often look for a better alternative – a way to gift your personal visit with “strings attached.” and tour one of our You may attempt to control your gifts by making them to spacious studios! the parent of the minor or young adult loved one. But, the parent may not invest or use the funds responsibly for the minor (and the parent has no legal obligation to do so). There can (925) 854-1858 also be a tax problem. If you want to make annual exclusion 1010 Second Street gifts ($14,000) each year to both the parent and the child (e.g.

Lafayette, CA 94549 if you are the grandparent of the minor), you will not be able to Lic #079200358 merrillgardens.com do so. You will be deemed to have made a $28,000 gift to the parent and no gift to the young loved one; and consequently, Retirement Living • Assisted Living • Memory Care you would be required to file a Federal Gift tax return and unnecessarily use $14,000 of your Federal Gift Tax and Federal 072816a_Lafayette_Today_Enjoy_Studio_A.indd 1 7/28/16 10:34 AM Estate Tax exemptions.

Also, to qualify for the tax benefit (removing assets from your estate for and effective way to “have your cake and eat it too” when gifting to minors Estate Tax purposes), annual exclusion gifts must be irrevocable, uncondior young adults. Be mindful that a Crummey Trust is an advanced estate tional “present interest” transfers. So, intuitive methods of placing strings planning strategy that should only be considered, drafted, and implemented on your gifts, such as keeping your name on the account into which funds with the advice and assistance of an experienced estate planning attorney. * Estate Planning * Trust Administration & Probate * Real Estate * Business are gifted, do not work. Fortunately, however, a special kind of irrevocable Please contact the author to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Plantrust known as a “Crummey Trust” is uniquely designed and administered ning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. Mr. so that gifts made to the trust qualify as annual exclusion gifts but can also Silverman is an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group which is located at be meaningfully controlled. A Crummey Trust can be custom-designed so that your gift into such irrevocable trust - which can be cash, securities or 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 125, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; even life insurance - can be invested, held, and distributed to your loved one rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com.

This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon precisely at the time(s) and for the purposes you wish. as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified Advertorial So, from a tax and non-tax perspective, Crummey Trusts offer an appealing professional advisors.

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You’ve built a great life doing things you love.

Being with friends. Pursuing fun hobbies.

Choosing the way you spend your days.

Why should that have to change?

Page 18 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

Crayon continued from page 8

ask us, ‘When can we get more crayons?’”

Kellye Carroll, Director, Chase Child Life Program Mattel Children’s Hospital UCLA, writes of her initial contact with TCI: “I have to be honest and say I literally rolled my eyes at my computer when I read the email because I was so skeptical of anyone figuring out how to recycle crayons – without infection control being an issue – AND seriously being able to produce enough that it would make a difference.” She is happy to report that not only does TCI keep the crayons coming, but they also deliver as needed, minimizing the significant storage problem posed by other donated art supplies.

The design of the crayons is ideal. Carroll says, “The fact that these don’t roll is fantastic. The kids don’t lose them in the bedsheets and – a huge infection control piece – they don’t hit the floor! Many of our kids have limited mobility, and to try to find a crayon that’s rolled off the table when you’re alone in your room can be really frustrating.” Kellye has tested TCI crayons with her own children and found that whether in the car, on vacation, or at home, they don’t break. The shape also naturally encourages a correct pencil grip rather than a fist grip. “Many of our patients have never been to school, so the simple art of holding a writing instrument is not something they’ve been exposed to.”

The TCI 8-color box includes pink. Carroll quotes her favorite comment from an ED specialist: “With these colors a kid can make a whole superhero or a whole princess.” Describing the therapeutic value of art, Carroll remarks, “ And there’s something magical about a new box of crayons – it inspires you to create. Many of our kids will express fears and concerns through their art - which they won’t do verbally.”

Crayons are an important way to balance a child’s hospital stay with a normal activity that reduces anxiety and relieves stress. Ware relates, “A huge percentage of kids – maybe even 98% - take their crayons home when they leave the hospital. Their eyes light up when they are told they can keep their crayons. It is one positive memory from their stay.”

Convincing restaurants to donate their unwanted crayons required understanding how to streamline the collection operation. “When we first approached a few local restaurants,” Ware admits, “we gave them a small collection box and they asked, ‘What do we do with this?’ Now restaurants from all over the country are contacting us for our collection displays so they can become a part of The Crayon Initiative.”

Based in Colorado, with locations in California and Arizona (and soon Texas), Snooze Eatery A.M., serving breakfast and lunch, has been contributing crayons to TCI since March 2015. As of December, they had recycled 1,400 pounds of crayons, producing about 8,375 TCI boxes. Sustainability Coordinator Megan Jorgenson concedes that prior to connecting with TCI, Snooze (although devoted to “composting, recycling, and using our resources responsibly”) simply trashed crayons. Programs Snooze tried previously to initiate proved impractical.

Jorgenson happily writes about the TCI experience, “Now that we can save all crayons, regardless of whether they ended up in a pile of maple syrup or a mug of hot chocolate, our recycling program is even stronger.” TCI has made the collection process simple. Megan is certain her personal pride in participating is shared by her co-workers. “The seemingly minimal shipping cost to our program to keep these crayons out of the landfills and recycle them into new crayons for kids is worth every penny!” Darden Restaurants have recently joined the TCI family with LongHorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden sites featuring collection displays. Look for collection boxes in your favorite local family-oriented dining spots. Thank them for their participation or tell them about the program.

Sorting crayons is fun for families, scouts, youth groups, and neighbors.

Corporations are also getting in on the action. The largest volunteer group TCI has handled to date had 375 participants.

For schools, TCI has created a detailed program guide integrating participation in crayon recycling with core curriculum at every grade level from Pre-K/Daycare – High School. Materials include a video, suggested activities, and books to read. As the introduction explains: “The Crayon Initiative believes that in order to grow and learn, children need to have the freedom to be creative and express themselves through art.”

Although nobody knows what 19th century inventor created the first crayon, crayons have been an essential part of Early Childhood Education

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Drinking Tea to Fight Cancer

By Jewel Johl, MD

Starting primarily in China and Japan, over 5,000 years ago, royalty started drinking tea. This fine drink is now consumed by many all over the globe. There are a variety of important nutrients and natural polyphenols found in tea, an important one being Epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). EGCG is the most active and abundant type of polyphenols in tea. It is capable of lowering levels of a certain protein in the body which are required for cancerous cells to grow. Tea can also trigger apoptosis of cancerous cells, which is when the cell dies.

Catechins, a property also found in tea, are capable of blocking blood vessel formation in tumors. When this occurs the supply line is cut off which keeps the tumor from growing. With a combination of both the EGCG and other catechins, tea is able to stop tumor growth as well as kill cancerous cells. Tea has been shown to prevent or suppress ovarian, prostate, breast, colon, and lung cancers.

Oolong, black, and green teas have the most effective active nutrients for fighting cancer. Overall, green tea shows to be the most promising of all tea types. Its polyphenols are made up of 50-70% EGCG which, as mentioned earlier, is the most effective and active polyphenol of them all. Packaged or “instant” tea powders do not contain the same benefits as fresh tea bags or leaves. To get the most active nutrients out of your tea, drinking it freshly brewed and plain is most beneficial. When tea beverages are iced, or have other liquids or sugars added into them, their nutritious components are diluted. Drinking two to three cups of tea a day can lower your overall risk for cancer.

In the year of 2014, just shy of 600,000 people died in the United States from cancer. There are many simple lifestyle changes that help to prevent cancer, including the drinking of tea. In addition, by eating healthy, maintaining an ideal weight, and staying active, it is easier for your body to keep fighting off diseases so that you can live a long, healthy life.

Dr. Johl is a Medical Oncologist and Hematologist at Diablo Valley Oncology. Dr Johl practices evidence based medicine with an integrative approach. He educates patients about the therapeutic benefits of natural compounds and supplements that have very little or no side effects. Call 925-677-5041 to schedule an appointment.

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since the beginning of the 20th century. In 1903, Binney & Smith of Easton, PA answered teachers’ requests for affordable art materials by releasing their original Crayola 8-color box priced at a nickel. Today Crayola alone makes three billion crayons annually.

A new board member, Carroll proudly states: “TCI is ultimately committed to promoting creative arts in hospitals – something that is so desperately needed and so underfunded.”

Learn more including how to support TCI at www.thecrayoninitiative.org.

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Mindfulness can Help with your Difficult Emotions

By Joree Rosenblatt, MA

Just as the acclaimed Pixar movie Inside Out demonstrated, all emotions are not only necessary and part of the human experience, but they each show up in our lives at different times. It is very common to want to disregard the “negative” emotions, such as anger, sadness, depression, or anxiety, as undesirable and therefore something that we just push aside and ignore.

But just as when we sweep all the proverbial junk under the rug, ignoring or denying difficult emotions doesn’t actually make them go away; eventually as that pile under the rug builds, we are bound to one day trip over it, making it impossible to ignore it forever. The same is true with emotions. Practicing how to not run away from painful emotional experiences allows for the opportunity for integrated health, wellness, and overall balance in our lives.

Mark Bertin, an author at Mindful magazine and a developmental pediatrician, states, “Being skillful with our emotions isn’t just about recognizing when we feel happy, angry, or sad. Awareness means noticing all of our emotions, and then making active choices about whether we need to take action or whether it’s best to leave things alone.” The more we learn how to turn towards, rather than away, the more informed our responses can be.

Mindfulness is a practice that allows us to gain insight into our brains and bodies and therefore develop a new, and hopefully more integrated, relationship with whatever is arising. By practicing greater awareness and paying attention to what is happening in the present moment, rather than reacting or running from what we deem negative or undesirable, it is then that we are able to see it for what it is, allowing it to have less control over us. Paradoxically, often what holds us to difficult emotions is the lack of desire to deal with it. But with mindfulness, when we allow space for it to exist and practice relating to our emotional experiences with self-compassion and loving-kindness, we can learn that we find new tools and strengths to get through difficult times.

Cancer Support Community

The following event will be held at the Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue in Walnut Creek, and is free of charge. For more information and reservations, please call (925) 933-0107. Participation is open to cancer patients and caregivers.

Communicating with Your Healthcare Team

Wednesday, August 24 ~ 6-8PM – In this workshop Alice will discuss effective ways to communicate your wishes and concerns to your medical team, including advance care planning. Explore how to raise difficult or sensitive issues and clarify what kinds of communication are beneficial to you. You will have a chance to bring up situations that you would like feedback about. With Alice Barlettani, RN.

Is Food a Problem for You?

Overeaters Anonymous offers a fellowship of individuals who, through shared experience and mutual support, are recovering from compulsive overeating. This is a 12-step program. The free meetings are for anyone suffering from a food addiction including overeating, under-eating, and bulimia. The group meets Wednesdays at 6PM at Our Savior's Lutheran Church in Lafayette. Visit www.how-oa.org for more information.

Hearing Loss Association

Come to meetings of the Diablo Valley Chapter of Hearing Loss Association of America at 7pm on the 1st Wednesday of the month at the Walnut Creek United Methodist Church located at 1543 Sunnyvale Ave., Walnut Creek Education Bldg., Wesley Room. Meeting room and parking are at back of church. All are welcome. Donations are accepted. An assistive listening system is available for T-coils, and most meetings are captioned.

Contact HLAADV@hearinglossdv.org or (925) 264-1199 or www. hearinglossdv.org for more information.

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Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 19 Zendal Segal, one of the founders of Mindfulness-based Cognitive Therapy, explains that by simply noticing, labeling, naming, and allowing the emotion to exist, does not mean that you like it, are resigned to feeling that way forever, or that you are passively dealing with it. In fact, quite the opposite; it takes great strength and commitment to bring more intentional attention to how we are feeling and develop a new, less reactive, relationship to our emotional experiences. When we do this, we break the automatic and habitual patterns of seeing ourselves as being stuck in a negative space or mindset forever. Through acceptance and “letting it be” we also recognize the fleeting nature of all emotions. This is why you often hear of a mediation teacher describe the thoughts in our minds to be like clouds passing overhead – when we can relate to our emotions or thoughts as the ever-changing clouds, we hold less of a grip onto them as a permanent state.

Through the cultivation of mindfulness, you can practice allowing the unpleasant experiences to exist, knowing that in the end you will still be okay.

By being in the present moment and creating this friendliness to ourselves and our experiences, helps bring about greater courage, strength, and ability to be with whatever is arising.

Living in the now brings not only relief and peace, but it also brings courage, strength, and the willingness to be with ourselves. Additionally, when we fail to pay attention to emotion, it often alters the way we view the world.

In other words, our perceptions of others are often skewed by our emotional states; the benefit of mindfulness is that when we notice our emotional states with less resistance we are able to see our emotions, and therefore people or situations around us, more clearly.

And now, you can cultivate a mindfulness practice right here in Danville!

The Bay Area Mindfulness and Therapy Center is opening August 15th and will be offering many small classes, workshops, and individual therapy. Check out www.mindfulnessandtherapycenter.com for more info.

Joree Rosenblatt, MA is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, with a passion for helping others live their optimal life through the cultivation of a mindfulness practice. Contact her for more information or to set up an appointment. Email joree@comcast.net or call 925-212-2996. Advertorial

City of Lafayette Contacts

Below are key Lafayette city departments and their contact information.

Administration: Responsible for overall city operations such as human resources, finance and office operations. Key staff members include the City Manager, Administrative Services Director, City Clerk, and Financial Services Manager. The City Offices are located at 3675 Mt. Diablo Blvd., #210, Lafayette. Hours are 8am – 5pm Monday-Friday. For information call (925) 284-1968 or email cityhall@lovelafayette.org.

Planning: Responsible for current and long-term planning for the physical development of the community that is consistent with the General Plan, Zoning Ordinance and the direction of the City Council. Planning Department hours are 12pm – 5pm Monday-Friday. For information call (925) 284-1976 or email planner@lovelafayette.org.

Police: Responsible for public safety, law enforcement, emergency operations, and parking control. The Police Department is located at 3675 Mt. Diablo Blvd, #130, Lafayette. Hours are 8am-12pm & 1am-5pm Monday-Friday. For general questions call (925) 299-3220. For police dispatch call (925) 284-5010 or 911.

Public Works: Responsible for maintaining the infrastructure of the City including road repair, storm drains, and landscaping of public property. The Public Works Corp Yard is located at 3001 Camino Diablo, Lafayette. Hours are 7am – 3pm Monday-Friday. For questions call (925) 934-3908. To report potholes, streetlight outages, traffic signal problems and other issues call the Hotline at (925) 299-3259.

Parks & Recreation: Responsible for the management and operation of a variety of recreation programs, special events and facilities including the Lafayette Community Center, the Community Park and a system of city trails. The Parks & Recreation (Community Center) is located 500 St. Mary’s Road, Lafayette. Hours are 9am – 5pm Monday-Saturday. For questions call (925) 284-2232.

Code Enforcement: Responsible for enforcing the Lafayette Municipal Code.

The Code Enforcement Officer concentrates on the investigation and abatement of complaints involving land use (zoning), housing conditions, abandoned vehicles, signs, animals and vermin, weeds/fire hazards, fences and general public nuisances. Contact Adam Foster at 925-299-3207 or afoster@lovelafayette.org.

For more information, visit www.ci.lafayette.ca.us.

Page 20 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

Your Personal Nutritionist

End Diabetes Type II Without Drugs

By Linda Michaelis RD, MS

Yes, it’s true: minor changes in your diet along with moderate exercise will bring your blood sugar levels down to normal in a very short time. This is not an exaggerated claim but reflects real results I see everyday in my practice. Even my husband received bloodwork that indicated that he was diabetic. He made the changes that I suggested, and I am happy to report his levels came down to normal within weeks.

Close to 25 million Americans over 65 have Type 2 Diabetes (blood sugar over 140 mg/dL) while another 90 million 20 years or older have been diagnosed with Pre-Diabetes (blood sugar over 120 mg/dL). You should be aware of the fact that studies have shown us that this diabetes epidemic is a great contributor to the scourges of cancer, heart disease, and stroke. Your physician will confirm a diabetes diagnosis by looking at results of an A1C which should not be greater than 6.5%. This test tells what your average glucose level has been over three months. I am glad to report that I am able to typically get my clients’ A1C down from 8.6 to 6.5 within three months, and, where doctors often express amazement by telling me they were about to put my clients on higher doses of metformin.

The first reaction to a diagnosis of Type 2 Diabetes is often shock, fear, and even depression as most people will start taking 500-1000mg of metformin twice a day immediately. (Diabetes Type 1 does need medication.) Clients report that for a couple of months they have diarrhea, gas, stomach pain, and flu like symptoms until their body adjusts. I am adamant with my clients that they do not have to live with these side affects if they work closely with me and follow the dietary regimen I recommend.

A major problem with diabetes is that blood sugar levels spike throughout the day and result in the constant need for insulin to break down the sugars which, in turn, causes a large strain on the pancreas. People with diabetes either don’t make insulin efficiently or their body’s cells no longer are able to recognize insulin, leading to high blood sugars.

Otto continued from front page

the ideas come from, out of my head, through the pencil and on to the paper.

Every design and doodle starts that way. Then it’s redrawn on the computer. I started doing this in the 90’s and had to reteach myself how to convert what I was designing into this new electronic medium. It was very tough in the beginning, but I’ve mastered what was needed to continue designing in my own way.”

It was 2006 when his artistic skill was locally discovered, and a Lafayette neighbor recruited him to create a logo for Lafayette Senior Transportation for whom he has continued to design flyers and van signs. Marechal Duncan, another Lafayette volunteer extraordinaire, recruited Otto to help with the opening of the library in 2009 and to help design the logo for the LHS. “John is a very clever graphic artist and has volunteered his talents to us as a board member and by helping with website posts, program ads, business cards, and signs,” says Mary McCosker, LHS president. “There isn't anything he can’t do and hasn’t done for our organization.....he makes us look professional. All of his efforts are so appreciated...and he’s got a great sense of humor too!”

Visitors to the Lafayette Library are likely to encounter Otto’s work; he regularly designs posters and flyers for featured Library programs and speakers.

“John has a keen eye for the mood and spirit of a program, and he is able to skillfully translate that into a beautiful print marketing piece,” says Sarah Blumenfeld, programs and development director for the LLLCF. “His work always catches the eye and makes the viewer take notice. We know we can trust John to produce beautiful work every time.”

Since 1972 Otto has lived in Lafayette where he and Sue raised their three sons, all of whom were members of Boy Scout Troop 204 where Otto served as assistant scout master from 1974 – 1986. He is editor and publisher of a neighborhood e-newsletter in which he posts baby announcements, new family welcome messages, and items for sale, etc. And he is known from coast to coast for his “Cardoodles,” e-greeting cards that commemorate both major and obscure holidays. “I started the Cardoodles to exercise my computer graphics skills. I use the Cardoodles as a challenge and brain exercise to entertain, inform, and amuse.” He’s designed 257 to date.

His volunteer jobs and other avocations don’t leave much free time, but when he has some, he helps Sue in their garden. “I thank those who brought me into

5 Meal a Day Plan

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With Type 2 Diabetes it is extremely important to eat five small meals a day which will prevent blood sugar from spiking and causing the need for greater amounts of insulin. Small meals should be eaten every few hours, and it is best to keep to the same times each day so your blood sugar will adapt. I not only recommend five meals but also suggest balancing the amount of proteins, carbs, and fats at each meal. For the first four meals, I recommend large amounts of protein, a carb, and some veggies. The evening meal should include a smaller amount of protein (which is harder to digest at night) to be enjoyed with at least a cup or more of whole grains and two cups of vegetables. With few exceptions, I find my clients actually begin to enjoy spacing out their meals during the day and are happy to not feel bloated from heavy meals. They enjoy the variety of smaller, tasty meals and large snacks. Clients easily lose weight and report higher levels of energy during the day.

Exercise

An hour of exercise 5-6 days a week is recommended. I have found that breaking exercise up into two half hours of, for example, a brisk walk is quite effective. It is quite common to see a 50 point reduction of blood sugar after a walk, the best pill in town.

Desserts

Yes, you can have desserts as long as it is eaten after a meal and not on an empty stomach. At first I recommend 200 calories of dessert such as a fudgisicles, fruit juice bars, puddings, cupcakes, or slice of cake with very little frosting.

I know these adaptations may sound too good to be true, but it can be done if you do not want to rely on diabetic meds your whole life. The good news is that most insurance companies pay for nutritional counseling for diabetes.

I am glad to inform you that my services are covered by most insurances such as Aetna, Blue Cross Blue Shield, United Healthcare, Sutter Select, ABMG, Health Net, and Hill Physicians. Please feel free to call me at (925) 855-0150 or email me at Lifeweight1@yahoo.com about your nutrition concerns. Look at my website LindaRD.com for past articles and nutrition tips in my blog section.

Advertorial the life of volunteering,” says Otto. “Everyone should give it a try. You meet new people, become more proud of Lafayette, and learn what a great, well-run town we live in. How lucky are we?”

Interested in receiving John Otto’s Cardoodles? Shoot him an email at jotto8@comcast.net, and he’ll add you to his distribution list.

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Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 21

Inguinal Hernia

By Michael Baker, M.D., FACS

A hernia means that some part of the contents from within the abdominal cavity – some fat or sometimes a part of the intestine – protrudes through an abnormal opening or weakness in the muscles of the abdominal wall. An inguinal hernia is a bulge that develops through a weakened area in the groin.

The inguinal canal is a passage through the lower abdominal wall – there is such an opening on each side of the lower abdomen. In males, the spermatic cord from the testicle passes through the inguinal canal and contains blood vessels, nerves, and the spermatic duct, that carries sperm from the testicles to the penis. In females, the round ligaments, which support the uterus, pass through the inguinal canals. This inguinal canal provides a weak point in the abdominal wall which is why hernias often develop in the groin. They are more common in men than in women, can be present at birth, or have developed at any time during your lifetime.

Inguinal hernias can cause burning, pressure, a dragging sensation, a bulge, or pain. Most hernias can be diagnosed by physical examination. Usually your physician will ask you to cough or strain in order to make it more obvious on examination. If it is difficult to determine with certainty, then physicians will sometimes order an ultrasound exam or a CT scan.

A hernia does not get better over time, nor will it go away by itself. There are no exercises or physical therapy regimens that can make a hernia improve or heal. The hernia can be observed if you and your physician feel it is not an urgent problem, and there are minimal or no symptoms. An alternative to surgery includes wearing a truss or hernia belt.

There is a slight risk that abdominal contents could become incarcerated (trapped) or strangulated ( the tissue dies) which needs to be taken into consideration if surgical repair is not done. An incarcerated hernia happens when part of the fat or small intestine from inside the abdomen becomes stuck in the groin or scrotum and cannot go back into the abdomen. When an incarcerated hernia is not treated, the blood supply to the small intestine may become constricted, causing “strangulation” of the intestine or other contents. Hence, most physicians encourage repair of inguinal hernias in patients who are medically able to undergo the procedure when feasible, even if there are no symptoms.

A hernia may not cause symptoms, but they do tend to get larger over time.

If symptomatic or enlarging, the hernia should be repaired. This requires a trip to the operating room and the ability to tolerate some type of anesthesia. Most all hernia repairs involve implanting a mesh of woven material to strengthen the muscles and prevent hernia recurrence. Hernias can be repaired by making a small incision in the groin (open technique) or by using a laparoscope to enter the abdominal cavity and repair from the inside. Your surgeon will choose the technique which they feel is the most appropriate for your age, medical conditions, surgical risk, and potential outcome. Each type of repair has its advantages, risks, and benefits. There are certain patients in which only an open technique can be used, such as when the patient cannot tolerate general anesthesia.

In the hands of experienced surgeons who repair inguinal hernias on a regular basis, both the open and laparoscopic approaches have low rates of serious complications and very good outcomes. Complications include hematoma (bleeding into the tissue), superficial wound infection, testicular swelling, chronic pain in the groin, and hernia recurrence.

Most inguinal hernias can be repaired on an outpatient basis requiring only a short stay on the day of surgery. Higher risk patients may need hospital observation for their medical conditions. Recovery time is variable, but most patients can return to light activity within a few days. Timing for return to work or vigorous activity will be recommended by your surgeon.

Dr. Baker is a board certified general surgeon, a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons, and a retired US Navy Admiral. He is the Senior Partner of West Coast Surgical Associates (formerly Walnut Creek Surgical Associates) with offices in Walnut Creek, Concord, and San Ramon. For more information call (925) 933-0984 or view the surgical team at www. wcsurgeons.com.

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By Marchelle Milligan

Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA) provides a blueprint of one’s biochemistry and can show information about your metabolic rate, energy levels, carbohydrate tolerance, stage of stress, and immune system. This screening test can also be used to reduce the guesswork involved when selecting nutritional supplements.

Minerals are the “sparkplugs” of life. They are involved in most enzyme reactions in the body. An HTMA is a screening test that measures the mineral content of your hair. Using 1 1/2 inches of hair closest to the scalp provides a three month average of what minerals are in deficit or excess, and where the body’s health is trending. The test also screens for heavy metals which can be detrimental to one’s health if they show up as high on a hair test.

An HTMA tests for 36 nutritive minerals and toxic metals. The mineral content of your hair reflects the mineral content of the body’s tissues. If a mineral deficiency or excess exists in the hair, it usually indicates a mineral imbalance within the body, or bio-unavailability of that mineral. The test also takes into account ratios of certain minerals which show the symptoms of why you may feel the way you do. This information can tell if you may be taking too much or not enough of certain vitamins and minerals. For example, most of us think we need to take lots of calcium. However, if the hair test reveals a high calcium level, then we are taking in too much calcium and excess calcium can get deposited in the soft tissues, such as the arteries, where we do not want it. Also, an HTMA will look at the ratio of calcium to potassium which can indicate thyroid issues.

Why not just test blood?

An HTMA reveals a unique metabolic world: intracellular activity, which cannot be seen through most other tests. Blood often has a narrow range that it will maintain in order to keep the body in homeostasis. By the time mineral levels are low in the blood, the person is usually very ill. This FallenHeroes2x3_11-27-13.indd means that if there are any mineral imbalances in the body, they will show up first in the tissues such as the hair before the blood.

HTMAs are not medical tests. They are screening tests only and do not diagnose disease. However, a hair analysis can reveal various mineral imbalances that indicate a tendency for various conditions. It gives you a different snapshot than blood or urine.

Conditions which may result or be aggravated by a mineral imbalance are depression, hypoglycemia, hyperactivity, headaches, hypertension, arthritis, thyroid disturbance, digestive disturbance, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, skin rashes, emotional problems, and more.

Everyone should be tested to see what issues are going on in their body to which they may be unaware. Hair analysis can be used as a preventative tool by revealing mineral imbalances before any health ailments manifest.

Hair analysis opens up a whole new vista for solving health ailments by recognizing your biochemical individuality.

For a local HTMA consultant, visit www.therhythmwithin.org or call Marchelle Milligan at (925)286-6237. For more information about HTMA, visit www.traceelements.com. Testing is $125 which includes the hair screening test, analysis, phone consult, and three months of follow-up.

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Page 22 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

Events for Lafayette Seniors

All classes are held at the Lafayette Senior Center (LSC), located at 500 Saint Mary’s Rd in Lafayette, unless otherwise noted. Space is limited. Please call 925-284-5050 to reserve a spot. Unless otherwise mentioned, events are free for members and $10 for non-members.

Lunch n’ Learn: Emergency Preparedness: We’ll Help You Get Ready! 10:30 – noon • Jennifer Russell Building, LCC - We all have the best

intentions to be prepared for emergencies, but it’s a task many of us leave undone on our “to do” lists. These workshops will demonstrate just how easy it is to be prepared. RSVP at Seniors@LoveLafayette.org or 284-5050. Reservations are required for a box lunch.

• Session 1 ~ 10/5, RSVP by 9/28 Learn about the various types of emergencies we can expect in our areas, how to develop a plan, how and when to shut off utilities, and more.

• Session 2 ~ 10/12, RSVP by 10/5 Hands-on Workshop: Use a fire extinguisher. Turn off a gas main. Learn about the “Neighborhood Readiness” concept. See the items you need for your “Go Bag,” car kit and home emergency supply kit, and more.

• Session 3 ~ 10/19, RSVP by 10/12 Progress Checkup and Next Steps: How did you do with your preparations? Were you able to locate your gas main and practice turning it off and on? Is your “Go Bag” complete and in position? We’ll help you prioritize your next steps and tie up any loose ends so you’re fully prepared.

Let’s Do Lunch! 1st Tuesday monthly • 11:30AM- Discover and explore the various dining experiences in the Lamorinda area. Relax, dine, meet new people, socialize, and enjoy lively conversation! Space is limited. Contact Lafayette Senior Services for the schedule of restaurants and to make your reservations. Individuals will pay for their own lunches; the restaurants will provide separate checks. This interest group is offered in conjunction with Lamorinda Village, www.lamorindavillage.org.

Document Your Life Story - If you have wanted to write about the stories, memories and experiences of your life but haven’t known where to start, start right here. You will be guided through the process of leaving a living history for future generations—what a gift! These are not drop-in classes but are meant to be taken as a complete course. There will be optional outings to St. Mary’s College for their creative writing reading series, “Afternoon Craft Conversations.” For more information or to place your name on the interest list, contact LSC.

Anne Randolph Physical Therapy Presentation: Arthritis Wednesday, August 24 • 11:30AM – 12:30PM • Tiny Tots Red Room, LSC - Live

the best life you can with arthritis! Understand the challenges and changes arthritis brings, and find practical solutions to make daily activities easier.

Discovering Opera: Rossini’s The Barber of Seville Thursday, November 3 • 1:30 – 3:00PM • Lafayette Library, Arts & Science Room - Dr. Bartolo, an elderly gentleman and guardian of the young and beautiful Rosina, wants to marry her. Enter the dashing young Count Almaviva, who has fallen in love with Rosina at first sight. Figaro, the barber of Seville and jack of many other trades as well, helps the Count gain entrance to Dr. Bartolo’s home, woo Rosina, and marry her practically under Dr. Bartolo’s nose. Rossini’s sparkling music shows him at the height of his compositional prowess. Lecturer Bradford Wade will give a guided tour of The Barber of Seville with a description of the plot interspersed with musical examples. This lecture is given in conjunction with Opera San José’s production of The Barber of Seville, November 12-27.

Apple Basics 1st & 3rd Thursdays • 11AM – 12:30PM • Elderberry Room, LSC - This on-going series covers topics such as the technology needed for wireless communication, your Apple ID, iTunes, iCloud, and the basics of iPad and iPhone usage. Topics for future sessions will be determined by participants’ input and needs. There will be time for Q&A at the end of each class. Please note: this series deals with Apple devices only.

Lamorinda Tea Dance Wednesdays • 1 – 3:30PM • Live Oak Room, LSC - Enjoy afternoon dancing every Wednesday, and learn some great new dance moves. On the first Wednesday monthly, professional dancers Karen and Michael will provide a dance lesson and live DJ services, playing your favorites and taking requests.

Words of Wisdom...From the Philosophical to the Lighthearted

3rd Tuesday Monthly • 10:30AM–noon • Toyon Room, LSC Share your opinions with us in a freewheeling exchange of ideas: from current events to philosophy to the inspirational. There may be agreement or there may be different opinions -- it’s all in the spirit of learning, sharing, enrichment, and

www.yourmonthlypaper.com good humor. Our “elder perspective” frequently sounds a lot like wisdom!

Reservoir Walking Group Tuesdays and Thursdays • 9AM – 10:30AM • Meet at reservoir at 8:45AM center bench on the dam - Led by Jim Scala, Lafayette Today’s “Walking the Reservoir” columnist. Join us for camaraderie, fresh air, and enjoyable exercise, all in magnificent surroundings. Optional bonus: at the end of the walk, Jim will lead you through easy yoga poses and breathing exercises in the most beautiful outdoor yoga studio: the band stage overlooking the water. Increase your balance and fitness, both physical and mental, and leave each week feeling uplifted and radiating that overall sense of well-being! Please call (925) 284-5050 or email seniors@lovelafayette.org to add your name to the email notification list. Bring quarters or a credit card for the parking meter. Annual senior (62+) passes may be purchased at the reservoir visitor center.

Positive Living Forum (“Happiness Club”) 2nd Thursday monthly • 10:30AM – noon • Sequoia Room, LSC - Brighten your day with Dr. Bob Nozik, MD, Prof. Emeritus UCSF and author of Happy 4 Life: Here’s How to Do It. Brighten your day and take part in this interactive gathering which features speakers on a wide range of topics that guide participants toward a more ideal and positive life experience. Drop-ins welcome!

Free Peer Counseling 2nd Tuesday monthly • 10AM - noon • Alder Room, LSC - Contra Costa Health Services offers free one-on-one counseling with senior (55+) counselors who use their life experiences to help other older adults cope with life changes, problems, crises, and challenges. Confidentiality is strictly observed. Appointment required. Please call Lafayette Senior Services to sign up for one of the 60-minute appointments.

Lamorinda Nature Walk and Bird-Watching Wednesdays • 9AM - noon • Alder Room, LSC - Experience nature at its finest along our local trails. Delight in the beauty that unfolds around each bend, all the while learning to identify a variety of birds. Bring a water bottle; binoculars will be helpful if you have them.

Join us every Wednesday or whenever you are able. For more information or to place your name on the route email/phone list, call Lafayette Seniors Services.

Hearing Screening August 3 & September 7 • 1 - 2:20PM • Alder Room, LSC - Please call Lafayette Senior Services to make an appointment. Minimum of two sign-ups required in order for hearing screenings to take place.

Drop-In Mah Jongg! Tuesdays through August 30 • 12:30-3:30 • Sequoia Room, LSC - Calling all Mah Jongg players! Bring your card and mah jongg set, and join us every Tuesday afternoon. This group is for all levels.

‘As The Page Turns’ Book Club 3rd Tuesday Monthly • 1PM - 2:30PM • Tiny Tots Red Room, LSC - Looking for a good book to discuss with others?

Join this informal group of booklovers and enjoy enrichment, lively discussion, fellowship, and refreshments. The group is of mixed gender, and everyone gets to participate in the discussions as well as the selection of books to read. Please call Lafayette Senior Services for the book title of the month.

Technology Tools for the Caregiver

Staying on top of technological advances can be overwhelming, especially for anyone who hasn’t grown up in the computer age. To help community members who are family caregivers, Hope Hospice presents Technology Tools for Caregivers on Saturday, August 13, from 9:45AM to noon.

During this presentation, healthcare educator Debbie Emerson, MS, will help family caregivers examine some of the available options and provide information on various resources, applications, and devices for medical/task management, communication, and home/personal monitoring. Attendees are encouraged to bring their own personal devices (laptops, tablets, smartphones, etc.) to explore some of the sites and applications. For more information about other sessions, visit HopeHospice.com. Any community member engaged in the role of family caregiver or expecting to soon become a caregiver is invited to attend this class.

Light refreshments will be served.

This class will be held at Hope Hospice, 6377 Clark Avenue, Suite 100, Dublin (2nd floor conference room). Register online at HopeHospice.com, or contact Hope Hospice Community Education Volunteer Debbie Emerson at debbiee@ hopehospice.com, or call (925) 829-8770. This program is available at no cost to all community members; however, donations to Hope Hospice are greatly appreciated.

editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

CCTA Adopts 30-Year TEP, Seeks Approval of Tax Measure

By Contra Costa Transit Authority

The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) believes that the future success of Contra Costa County includes offering safe, reliable mobility for all. To provide funding for this goal, on Wednesday, July 20th, the Contra Costa Transportation Authority board – which includes representatives from all parts of the County – voted unanimously to put a tax measure on the November 8th ballot. If approved by voters, the ballot measure will fund transportation improvements throughout Contra Costa County, as outlined in CCTA’s transformative 30-year Transportation Expenditure Plan.

The proposed Transportation Expenditure Plan (TEP) is the culmination of months of extensive public outreach, stakeholder engagement, and advocate input. The TEP has also been approved by all of Contra Costa’s 19 cities and towns, as well as the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. The plan focuses on innovative strategies and new technologies to promote a strong economy, protect the environment, and enhance the quality of life for all of Contra Costa’s diverse communities.

“The CCTA Board is incredibly proud of the TEP. This is a transportation plan that reflects the values of our diverse region, has garnered broad support across the county, and will guide the next 30 years of transportation planning. If a super-majority of voters approve the tax measure in November, the tax revenue will provide necessary funding for the transportation improvements included in the TEP,” said Authority Board Special Meeting Chair Don Tatzin.

Contra Costa residents have made significant contributions to their transportation infrastructure since 1988, when voters passed Measure C, a half-cent sales tax dedicated to maintaining the ability of residents to travel safely and conveniently throughout the county. Measure C helped fund the BART extension to Pittsburg/Bay Point, built the Richmond Parkway, improve bicycle and pedestrian trails in the county, and invest more than $30 million in senior and disabled transit services.

In 2004, voters passed Measure J, which renewed the half-cent sales tax through 2034.

Measure J has helped deliver the Fourth Bore of the Caldecott Tunnel, generated $1.3 billion dollars of investments to Highway 4 in Eastern Contra Costa County, including a BART extension to Antioch, and combined with Measure C has provided $286 million to Contra Costa’s cities and towns to maintain and repair local streets. The measure, which will appear on the November 8 ballot, will ask Contra Costa voters to approve a new half-cent sales tax that will generate $2.9 billion in revenues over 30 years to continue to improve the transportation system in Contra Costa.

The TEP includes plans to reduce congestion and smooth traffic; improve BART, bus, ferry, and train service; and fix local streets and roads. It also dedicates unprecedented funding to new technologies and bicycle and pedestrian improvements in every part of the county, to give commuters viable alternatives to driving and in the process help get them out of traffic.

The TEP builds on CCTA’s strong record of fiscal responsibility and includes strong taxpayer protections and accountability. A public oversight committee will provide independent review of all funds raised and spent. It will ensure that funds are spent only in accordance with the voter-approved plan and only to benefit Contra Costa County.

“As we move into the future, Contra Costa’s economic strength is going to depend on people being able to travel quickly and conveniently throughout the county – to jobs, shopping and entertainment destinations, and everywhere else they need to go. This plan – and the measure that will fund the improvements it describes – helps make sure that it is a reality in years to come,” said Tatzin.

To find out more information about the transportation improvements planned for the next 30 years – including projects in each of Contra Costa’s 19 cities and towns – and the tax measure, which will fund those plans if

Lafayette Today ~ August 2016 - Page 23 approved by voters on November 8, 2016, visit KeepContraCostaMoving.net.

About The Contra Costa Transportation Authority

The Contra Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) is a public agency formed by Contra Costa voters in 1988 to manage the county’s transportation sales tax program and oversee county-wide transportation planning efforts. CCTA is responsible for planning, funding and delivering critical transportation infrastructure projects and programs that connect our communities, foster a strong economy, increase sustainability, and safely and efficiently get people where they need to go. CCTA also serves as the county’s designated Congestion Management Agency, responsible for putting programs in place to keep traffic levels manageable. More information about CCTA is available at ccta.net.

Lamorinda Senior Transportation An Alliance of Transportation Providers

Volunteer Drivers – Needed, Valued, and Appreciated We will accommodate your schedule.

Call one of the programs below to volunteer.

Lamorinda Spirit Van

283-3534

Contra Costa Yellow Cab and DeSoto Company

284-1234

Takes Lamorinda older adults, age 60 and up, to errands, appointments, shopping, classes, and to lunch at the C.C. Café. Wheelchair and walker accessible. WE LOVE TO SAY YES, so call early to make your reservation.

20% discount for Lamorinda seniors.

Orinda Seniors Around Town

402-4506

Volunteer drivers serving Orinda seniors with free rides to appointments and errands.

Mobility Matters Rides for Seniors (formerly Senior Helpline Svcs) 284-6161

Volunteer drivers serving Contra Costa seniors with free rides to doctors’ appointments during the week. Grocery shopping on Saturdays.

County Connection LINK Reservation Line

For people with disabilities. (Older adults often have “age-based” disabilities.)

938-7433

Mobility Matters Information and Referral Line 284-6109

C L A S S I F I E D S COMPUTER HELP

ITkid Computer Help Assistance with any tech related issue for a low price.

Help with Email•Wifi•Computer•Smartphone•Tablet•Etc. $30/hr. Contact Max Nunan, local ITkid consultant. (925) 482-5488, maxnunan@gmail.com

CAREGIVING

Caring for a person with dementia is difficult. When you’re not around, you want patient and loving help. As You Like It, Really Kind Caregivers is here. Please contact Wendy at 925-708-6915, or minisister@yahoo.com, or find me on Facebook, search: As You Like It.

ARCHITECT JOHN ROLF HATTAM - ARCHITECT Specializes in modest budget, new and renovated residences. Over 200 completed projects. Brochures available for all of our professional services •RESIDENTIAL RENOVATION •NEW RESIDENCES •CHURCHES •COMMERCIAL •MULTI-FAMILY. For the brochure meeting your need call 510-841-5933.

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Page 24 - August 2016 ~ Lafayette Today

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