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April 2016 Lindsay Wildlife Experience
Serving the Lafayette Community It’s Almost Fair Season!
“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I may remember. Involve me and I learn.” Benjamin Franklin might have been referring to the philosophy of the Lindsay Wildlife Experience when he turned this wise phrase more than 200 years ago. The Lindsay Wildlife Experience (formerly the Lindsay Wildlife Museum) and its Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital have always been more than the dictionary definition of its former ‘museum’ name implied – a building in which objects of interest are stored or exhibited. Lindsay’s live animals, its vibrant, Wild Night fun. hands-on displays and programs, and its real hospital care presentations are so much more than museum material, and thus, the Museum last year revealed its new, more apropos name. Officially founded in 1955 by Alexander Lindsay, a local businessman who had studied ornithology and taught neighborhood children about nature, the Lindsay has experienced a number of name changes over the years. Originally housed in an elementary school, the Lindsay Junior Museum moved in 1965 to a water pump house in Larkey Park where it housed non-releasable native wildlife and natural history objects. In 1987, the ‘Junior’ was dropped in order to reflect its appeal to all age groups, and in 1996, the word ‘Wildlife’ was added. Lindsay is the living embodiment of Franklin’s “Involve me and I learn” tenet. More than 100,000 visitors each year, including 40,000 school children, experience Lindsay with hands-on, on-site, and in-school programs such as the Petting Circle where one can learn about and touch a rabbit, guinea pig, or hamster. The Raptors! exhibit allows for a true bird’s eye view of flight, as participants soar over a simulated local landscape a la Disney’s Soarin’ Over California. “Educating children about wildlife and connecting them with charismatic animal ambassadors such as great horned owls, golden eagles, and king snakes is the best way I know to instill a passion for wildlife conservation,” says Lindsay’s executive director Cheryl McCormick. “If children develop deep connections to wildlife while they’re very young – they’ll still care when they become consumers, voters, and policy makers. Lindsay plants seeds of inspiration and wonder that, over time, grow into mighty trees of actions and ideas. When I see a group of schoolchildren enrapt by one of our animal ambassadors, I can’t help but wonder, ‘Is this the next E.O. Wilson, Jane Goodall, Jacques Cousteau, or Sylvia Earle?’ McCormick is an ecologist whose worry
It’s almost Fair season, and that means that young 4-H’ers are readying their varied animals for showing. The Contra Costa County Fair runs June 1 – June 5, with horse competitions taking place the weekend of May 21. We’ve queried three local girls on what it’s like to raise and show their animals. Caitlynn Turner is a 12-yearold Pleasant Hill Middle School student who started 4-H activities at age six. She has raised swine, chickens, and rabbits, and has ridden and shown horses. “I have been riding horses since I was three-years-old at my Grandpa’s ranch,” says Turner. “And finally I got my first rabbit after my older sister had one for a couple of years. I have just started the poultry project this year, even though I don’t have a chicken.” Dreya and Cody Caitlynn loves spending time with animals and aspires to become a large animal vet.
By Fran Miller
By Fran Miller
The wildlife hospital is the backbone of Lindsay’s existence.
Local Postal Customer
See Lindsay continued on page 13 PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 21 Lafayette, CA
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Las Trampas Art Exhibit
By Kathy Merchant
See 4-H continued on page 9
There is an artist in all of us, they say. Well, 15 artists from Lafayette’s Las Trampas validated this belief in the 25 art pieces currently on display at the Community Hall Art Gallery at the Lafayette Library and Learning Center. What makes this exhibit exceptional is that Las Trampas Patty with her piece in the exhibition. serves individuals with moderate to profound developmental disabilities, including Down Syndrome, cerebral palsy, and autism. At a packed Volume X - Number 4 3000F Danville Blvd #117 champagne reception in March, coAlamo, CA 94507 hosted by Lafayette’s Public Art Telephone (925) 405-6397 Committee, guests viewed the colorful, Fax (925) 406-0547 primarily abstract paintings created by individuals with a range of intellectual editor@yourmonthlypaper.com and physical challenges…from limited Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher opinions expressed herein belong to the digital dexterity, restricted vision, The writers, and do not necessarily reflect that of Lamarginally verbal, and non-ambulatory. fayette Today. Lafayette Today is not responsible the content of any of the advertising herein, But the lively hues, movement, and for nor does publication imply endorsement.
See Art continued on page 20
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Page 2 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
Lafayette Community Garden and Outdoor Learning Center Classes
The following classes are free. However, a $5 donation is appreciated to support these education programs. Classes are held at the Lafayette Community Garden located at 3932 Mt. Diablo Blvd, across from and just west of the Lafayette Reservoir. For more information or to register for classes, visit www. lafayettecommunitygarden.org. Man’s War Against Weeds, Insects, and Rodents Sunday, May 1 ~ 3 - 4:30PM Be ready for an hour of funny stories and serious data that provides evidence for taking a precautionary approach to commonly used pesticides. You will become informed on topics you took for granted and learn about the least toxic alternatives to any pest problem. There will be a Q&A. Susan JunFish, MPH, has received high accolades throughout the Bay Area for her presentations to diverse audiences from service organizations to legislative members at the State Capitol. In 2002, she founded and is the Director of Parents for a Safer Environment, leading smart pest management in municipalities, businesses, and homes with the support of volunteers and student interns in Contra Costa County. Master Gardeners Open Clinic Saturday, April 30 ~ 10AM - noon • Interested in knowing more about what is going on in the Lafayette Community Garden? • Questions about your own garden? • Diseases or pests interfering with the growing results you would like to have? The Master Gardeners will host the clinics at the Lafayette Community Garden. Representatives will be available to answer your garden questions, hand out materials, share the latest information about growing edibles in our area, and walk through the garden to answer questions about the existing crops.
Come to a Community Passover Seder
Chabad of Lamorinda invites you to a free Passover Seder in the Lafayette Library Community Hall on April 22nd at 7:30PM. Enjoy the holiday of freedom at an inspirational Seder, complete with a gourmet Passover dinner, the original hand-made Shmurah Matzah, and four cups of exquisite Kosher wine. Journey with us through the Haggadah, with traditional songs, stories, and spiritual insights. The Seder is English friendly, so everyone can feel welcome. Bring along family and friends, and enjoy the Seder together! Admission is complimentary, but please RSVP to Chabadoflamorinda. com/Seder or call 925-384-7242 so the group can prepare accordingly.
Elks Car Show and Charity Event
On May 7th a fun event for the entire family will be held. Stop by the Walnut Creek Elks Second Annual Car Show and Charity Event. Admission is free! The event kicks off in high gear running from 10AM until 3PM with classic and vintage cars, new and old domestic cars, imports, exotics, hot rods, and racing vehicles all being displayed by their owners. The event offers a unique opportunity to see these vehicles up close and the opportunity to chat with the folks who own, restore, and maintain them. There will be food, beverages, and activities for the entire family throughout the day as well as a dragster, a fire truck, and military vehicles on display. Prizes will be raffled and a silent auction will be held. All proceeds go to the Lodge’s charities. Don’t miss this great event to be held at 1475 Creekside Dr in Walnut Creek.
Scottish Country Dancing
Come dance every Thursday evening, year-round. No partner is required and no Scottish ancestry is needed. This dancing is aerobic and very sociable. Adult beginners are welcome anytime. Classes take place each week at 8PM. More experienced dancers also begin at 8PM in a separate class. All classes are held at the Danville Grange, located at 743 Diablo Road in Danville. All dance nights are drop-in. The first beginner lesson is free; afterwards the cost is $8/night or $6/night if attending a 10-week session paid in advance. Call Witsie at (925) 676-3637 or Kathleen at (925) 934-6148 for more information. Classes for youth are also offered at a different location; please call Kathleen for dates and fees.
Lafayette Earth Day Festival
The 11th Annual Festival will be held Sunday, April 24th from 11am – 3pm at the Lafayette Library & Learning Center
Come and explore this year’s theme of “Act Local.” Throughout the day, there will be opportunities to make better, more environmentally-friendly decisions. Think about the products you purchase, the transportation options you have, the lunches we pack for kids, and the snacks we carry with us to parks and sporting events. Could you take one more step and bring your reusable shopping bags, walk or ride, carpool once a week or choose fruit that comes in its own organic wrapper (oranges, apples and bananas)? Sustainable Lafayette’s mission has always been to support activities that enhance the quality of life in Lafayette. Making even small changes in your daily decisions can have a huge impact.
Things you can do at Earth Day
• Create art with recycled materials at the LPIE Art booth. • Recycle old, used crayons with the Crayon Initiative. • Help preserve open space in Lafayette • Reduce food waste with White Pony Express • Learn about choosing renewable energy for your home with MCE • Request larger recycling and compost bins for your home with Republic Services. • Daisies, Brownies, and Juniors can earn their Girl Scout Global Action Award. • Practice bike skills at the Safe Moves bike rodeo at Stanley Middle School (9:30-11am). • Take a guided creek walk with the Lafayette Creeks Committee Food vendors will be onsite, and the annual Green Awards will be presented. Learn more at www.sustainablelafayette.org/our-events/earth-dayfestival-2016.
Sons in Retirement Lamorinda Branch 174
Sons in Retirement Lamorinda Branch 174 is a social organization of retired and semi-retired men who enjoy spending 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. The group meets for lunch at 11AM the second Wednesday monthly at Holy Trinity Culture Center, 1700 School Street in Moraga. The guest speaker on April 13 will be Adam Czekanski, Lt. Col. of the Army Corp of Engineers. For attendance and membership info, call Tyler at (925) 284-5561.The group’s website is www.branch174.sirinc2.org.
Las Trampas Branch 116
Sons In Retirement Las Trampas Branch 116 welcomes guest to socialize at their monthly luncheon beginning at 11AM on Monday, April 18th at the Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Drive. The April speaker is Jim Cole who always had a fascination with the sea. Over the years that love of the sea has turned into a passion for sailing, a sport in which he has actively participated for over forty years. When Jim retired from business a few years ago, his life-long dream of sailing the Atlantic Ocean became a reality when, in 2012 at age 72, he participated in an around-the world sailing race involving ten identical, stripped down 68 foot racing sailboats. Jim’s presentation will follow the 4,000 mile leg of his race from New York to his birthplace of Halifax, Nova Scotia, across the Atlantic (including a hurricane) to Derry, Ireland, up through the North Sea, over the northern tip of Scotland to the port of Den Helder in the Netherlands, and then on to the Southampton UK finish line. Please call (925) 322-1160 to make lunch reservations. The cost for lunch is $15. For more information about the group’s activities for retired men, please visit www.Branch116.org.
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Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 3
Boulevard View
By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
I love making lists. However, some members of my family don’t love them as much as I do - that would mainly be the recipients of the “Honey Do” list or a “Kids To Do” list (even if they are all grown!). A magazine I read called Rodale’s Organic Life talked about lists and noted, “Lists bring order to chaos and, at their best, are vivid snapshots of our aspirations, desires, hungers, and hopes.” I agree! I don’t look at most of my lists as “To Do” lists, but rather they are a gathering of my personal goals and things to accomplish - whether they be lists of home projects, work projects, restaurants to try, skills to learn, movies to watch, books to read, or places to visit. Lists provide direction. My lists gather in one place things that are important to me. I remember as a youngster one of my favorite books was The People’s Almanac Presents the Book of Lists by David Wallechinsky and Irving and Amy Wallace. I would spend hours pouring over the grouping of facts and figures and random trivia, and perhaps that was the beginning of my love of lists. Recently my daughter found herself with six “free days” from her class studies. She got the bug to travel so she went online to kayak.com to see where she could travel for cheap. She came up with New York or Alaska. She then called me up and asked if I wanted to come along. The timing between paper deadlines couldn’t have been better, so I said, “Sure!” She knew I had been to New York within the last year so we chose to go to Alaska in the winter...why not?! Seeing Denali was on my list of places to see so it filled a check box as well (although when I made the list I envisioned travel in the spring, not the middle of winter!). Alaska in March, however, did not disappoint. We flew into Anchorage where it was in the balmy 20-30 degree range. While our initial vision was to take a train between Anchorage and Fairbanks, we found the train was sold out. We rented a car and were fortunate to have arrived and had been able to drive just ahead of a big storm (which dropped temperatures into the -10 degree range!). I am a big fan of road trips and exploring wherever the road takes me. Our drive led us to a Russian Orthodox Cemetery in the town of Eklutna which dated back to the year 1650. We traveled to the town of Nenana and saw the frozen Tanana River which hosts an annual fundraising contest/pool to guess the exact time the ice will break up and trip a clock on a tripod that has become encased in the river ice. Arriving in Fairbanks we stopped by a portion of the Alaskan Pipeline, went dog mushing by the light of the moon and the Northern Lights, and attended the World Ice Carving Championships. We nearly found ourselves “homeless” in Fairbanks when our lodging fell through and every hotel room was sold out. That started a “Plan B” list which included sleeping in the airport, or buying sleeping bags and sleeping n in our rental car in the io • Books for Children & s Walmart parking lot. is Young Adults m Fortunately, we had Ad • Meet Authors & made a new friend 150 Illustrators miles back on the road who noted, “If you • Storytellers ever need anything, • Free Art Activities give me a call!” and taking him up on the offer was our saving grace. Meet and Greet The trip wasn’t an overly planned event, and the spontaneity added to the your Favorite Characters adventure. With everyone’s lives getting busier by the day, it is often difficult CELEBRATE NATIONAL LIBRARY WEEK to break away, take a breather, and do something different. A list can be a great motivational tool to clarify goals, see new sights, and encourage us to “The Boxcar Children” Railway Display take time for the things we deem important.
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LAFAYETTE
Free Raffle at Book Fair
Sunday, April 17 10am - 4pm Acalanes High School, 1200 Pleasant Hill Rd., Lafayette
Sponsored By
1 Free Raffle Ticket for each canned good donation
Free Books, Great Prizes
Produced by (925) 408-4014 Jay@BayAreaFamilyFest.com
FREE Goody Bag to first 250 families each day
Also in SUNNYVALE
Saturday, April 16
The Cat in the Hat: Dr. Seuss Properties TM and © Dr. Seuss Enterprises L.P. All Rights Reserved Curious George is a registered trademark of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt. All rights reserved. Elephant & Piggie: ©Copyright 2013 Hyperion Books for Children
www.BayAreaKidsBookFair.com
A historical sign in the town of Talkeetna piqued our curiosity and we went in search of the convergence of three rivers. What we found was a rushing river with a stunning view of Denali.
Page 4 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
AAUW-OML April Annual Awards Meeting
Featuring Mary Fettig speaking on MUSIC: Mathematics in Action!
Can studying and playing music contribute to learning about Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math? Can it enhance one’s ability to excel in academics? On April 17 at 3PM, the American Association of University Women--Orinda, Moraga, Lafayette branch (AAUW-OML) will honor middle school girls who will be spending a week at Tech Trek Camp. AAUW will award scholarships to high school girls and one young woman college student and hear about their community service. How does music fit into this? Come and hear dynamic speaker, Mary Fettig, talk about her experiences and benefits to her life from studying and playing music. Here’s a clue: she minored in math at UCLA, majored in music, and has a Masters Degree in Flute from Cal State Hayward. She also plays saxophone and clarinet. Her accomplishments include touring with jazz greats and playing jazz festivals. Her popular music performances include concerts with Lady Gaga, Tony Bennett, Kevin Spacey, Aretha Franklin, Natalie Cole, the Temptations, Four Tops, Gladys Knight, and many more. She has many studio credits in film, television, video games, and radio and regularly performs with the San Francisco Symphony. Now retired from the faculty at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music, she teaches local youth. For Mary, playing music is a hyper-alert experience, a source of pleasure. She has recorded several jazz CDs. Come and hear her latest one entitled Brazilian Footprints.
Tech Trek Scholarship Winners on Technology’s Leading Edge
Six Lamorinda middle school girls, winners of full scholarships to this year’s Tech Trek camp at Stanford, will tell us about their passions for math and science and their enthusiasm for future STEM careers. Their aspirations include engineering a solution for worldwide solar energy, inventing a holographic phone, designing green buildings, creating machines to help fix or replace parts of the body as a surgeon, and designing robots to clean up the trash in the ocean. In March, the Tech Trek committee interviewed 37 incredible girls who love science and math.
Scholarship Winners Lead with Dedication and Courage
Four women graduates from three high schools and St. Mary’s college, winners of this year’s OML Branch Scholarships, will speak on the importance of community service and how this commitment has influenced their future choices in education and careers. Plan to attend this special program on Sunday, April 17 at the Holy Trinity Serbian Church Cultural Center, located at 1700 School Street, Moraga. For more information, visit the AAUW-OML www.oml-ca.aauw.net.
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
George Craig is our winner! Luther was hiding on page 7 last month!
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40 Annual Science Day of Discovery th
Lafayette Nursery School’s 40th Annual Science Day of Discovery will be held on Saturday, May 7th from 10am to 1pm! Make a volcano explode, shoot a rocket, make flubber, dig for dinosaur bones, and pet an animal in the petting corral! These are just a few of the many hands-on science and nature activities at the Science Day for children preschool age through third grade. It’s a fantastic event that benefits the local community. Enjoy refreshments at the Creepy Crawler Cafe. Proceeds from this event are donated to a local math and/ or science based charity. The cost is $4 per child. The event will be held at Lafayette Nursery School, located at 979 First Street, Lafayette. For more information, call the school at 925-284-2448, visit www.lafayettenurseryschool.org, or check out www.facebook.com/ LafayetteNurserySchool to see pictures of previous Science Days.
Bay Area Kids’ Book Fair
The Bay Area Kids’ Book Fair, East Bay Edition, will take place on Sunday, April 17, 10AM - 4PM. This inaugural event will feature authors, illustrators, publishers, booksellers, educational programs, and commercial vendors. Meet and greet The Cat in the Hat, Elephant & Piggie, Olaf from Frozen, and Curious George. There will be a huge The Boxcar Children Bay Area Garden Railway display. Storytelling and arts activities will be held. Admission and parking are free. The event will take place at Acalanes High School, 1200 Pleasant Hill Rd., Lafayette. For more information, visit www.BayAreaKidsBookFair.com.
13th Annual Fun Run Supports Children’s Health in Zimbabwe
The JF Kapnek Trust will be hosting a 13th annual Family Fun Run on May 1 to raise funds to help children affected by HIV/AIDS in Zimbabwe, Africa. The run starts at 9AM at Miramonte High School in Orinda. There will be a 5K and a 1K which can be walked or run. For additional information or to register, call (925) 962-7150 or visit www.JFKapnekTrust.org. Registration fee includes brunch, t-shirt, music, face painting, crafts, and more.
Springhill Elementary School Blood Drive
The 6th annual blood drive in memory of Rachael Wenger will be held at Springhill Elementary School, 3301 Springhill Road in Lafayette, on Friday, April 15 from 12 noon until 6PM. If you are able to donate blood, please consider doing so. To avoid a wait, you may make an appointment by calling The American Red Cross at 1-800-RED-CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or logging onto www.redcrossblood.org and entering either sponsor code: RachaelWenger or zip code: 94549. Walk-ins are also welcome. By using the new RapidPass, you can reduce the time you spend at the blood drive by up to 15 minutes. Learn more by visiting redcrossblood.org/RapidPass. Rachael Wenger died in April 2010 at the age of eight years. She needed a lot of blood while she was alive, and her family has been holding annual blood drives in her memory at her school ever since. Rachael’s family has a goal to have 50 donors this year. Blood is needed everyday. Please come and donate blood. You could save a life.
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Lafayette Emergency Preparedness Emergency Preparedness for Individuals and Families
Don’t put it off any longer! This quick and easy session will help you prepare yourself and your family for the next emergency whether you are at home, work, or out and about. Emphasis will be on earthquake preparation, but the information applies to other emergencies as well. Bring pencil and paper. Materials will be provided. The class will be held Thursday, April 14, 7-9PM.
Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 5
Spring Cleaning? Leave the hassles behind
Neighborhood Captains’ Training
Join other Lafayette residents in becoming a neighborhood captain in the Lafayette Emergency Action Response Network (LEARN). This session is designed to help you organize your block or neighborhood in becoming self-sufficient for the first 72 hours following a major disaster. Attendance at a basic preparedness class (as above, CERT or Red Cross class) is recommended, but not required, prior to attending this class. Bring paper and pencil. Written materials will be provided. The training will be held Thursday, May 12, 7-8:30PM. Both classes will be held at the Lafayette Community Center located at 500 St. Mary’s Rd. in the Elderberry Room (back parking lot). Classes are taught by the Emergency Preparedness Commission and are FREE. Register by calling the Lafayette Community Center at 925-284-2232.
Moraga Community Faire & Car Show
The Moraga Community Faire & Car Show will be held from 11AM to 4PM on Saturday, May 14 at the town’s Rheem Valley Shopping Center offering a wonderful opportunity for a “family fun day.” Children will be delighted to discover the climbing wall, bounce house, and a Hi Stryker game. Grab a quick lunch at the food trucks which will be offering sliders, Asian style BBQ, Mexican gourmet cuisine, and ice cream. Relax with a glass of local wine, and check out the over 70 amazing classic cars, or stroll down the artist alley to find the perfect gift from a wide range of artists. Attendees may win prizes by completing an explorer passport. Free to attend, the Moraga Community Faire & Car Show is organized and sponsored by the Moraga Chamber of Commerce. For more information, visit www. moragachamber.org/faire.
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Lafayette Juniors Host 17th Annual Kitchen Tour for Charity 022616a_Lafayette_Today_Spring_Cleaning_A.indd 1
2/29/16 3:32 PM
Tickets are on sale for the Lafayette Juniors 17 Annual Kitchen Tour. This self-guided tour will be held on Saturday, May 14 from 10AM to 3PM and welcomes guests into six special Lafayette homes with beautifully designed classic, traditional, and transitional kitchens including a stunning kitchen frequently featured as a backdrop for Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn photo shoots. Attendees will receive a Kitchen Tour program detailing all of the distinctive design elements of the kitchens as well as information on the architects, designers and contractors who created these spaces. Attendees will enjoy delicious appetizers and fresh-baked cookies by local favorite, baked. Tour attendees will also get the chance to see the homes come to life with art from Lafayette’s Jennifer Perlmutter Gallery and fun entertaining tablescapes set by Effortless Hostess. Proceeds from this year’s event benefit the work of five local non-profit organizations: Youth Homes, Diablo Ballet’s PEEK Outreach Program, the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, and Lamorinda Spirit Van. These organizations were selected by the Lafayette Juniors for the support they provide to children, families, and seniors in the East Bay. Tickets are $40 ($35 tax deductible), with a box lunch available for $15. Tickets can be purchased online at www.lafayettejuniors.org and are also available at Premier Kitchens in Lafayette. For more information on the Lafayette Juniors Kitchen Tour and its beneficiaries, visit www.lafayettejuniors.org. th
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Page 6 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
The Bookworm By Joan Stevenson
After five hours in a 1960 Chevy station wagon, the signs that the park was just ahead stirred the sleepy occupants of the car. The answer to “Are we there yet?” was “Almost.” And then, in front of us was a breathtaking view, so beautiful that it belonged on a picture postcard. In that moment I fell in love with Yosemite! Have you had such a memory? Which park touched you? This month you will have a chance to explore that question because The National Park Service turns 100 this year, and everyone can take part in the celebration! Lafayette Library and Learning Center will participate with a birthday bash on Tuesday, April 26th, from 6:30 - 7:30PM, in the Community Hall. Children’s author, Mike Graf, is coming to Lafayette to talk about touring National Parks and writing about them in his Adventures with the Parkers series. Learn about his adventures in the parks, and start planning your own! When you are on vacation this summer, send us a postcard from any of the parks your visit. We will display them in the library and give you a prize for sharing your adventure in a park. On April 12th from 6:30 – 8PM, Contra Costa Master Gardener’s will present Seasonal Vegetable Gardening. Bio-intensive gardening can reduce the amount of water, fertilizer, and space used for vegetable gardens while increasing the amount that is produced. Come to this presentation, and leave with the knowledge necessary to create your own bio-intensive garden. This month’s Science Café, April 13th from 7-9PM, will explore the underwater wilderness. Marine Applied Research & Exploration (MARE) deploys robotic submarines to survey and assess fish populations beyond depths accessible to recreational scuba divers. Learn how Dirk Rosen and his team of MARE engineers and biologists track changes over time to ensure a healthy ocean for future generations. Tickets costing $10 can be purchased at tinyurl. com/ScienceCafeMARE. The highly anticipated world premiere retrospective of designer Oscar de la Renta’s work celebrates the life and career of one of fashion’s most influential designers. The exhibition includes more than 130 ensembles produced over five
www.yourmonthlypaper.com decades, and it is presented in collaboration with the House of de la Renta and the designer’s family. April 14th from 2-3:30PM the Friends will welcome a docent from the De Young, host of the exhibit, to the Community Hall as part of the Wonders of the World series to give us the show highlights. Grab your seat early as there is sure to be a full house! Join us on April 19th from 6-8:30PM for a screening of the powerful film Paper Tigers hosted by the Child Abuse Prevention Council of Contra Costa County. Paper Tigers explores the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACES) and toxic stress on struggling teens. The film follows a year in the life of Lincoln High Alternative School in Walla Walla, Washington. After radically changing its approach to disciplining students, the school saw a dramatic turnaround in everything from the number of fights, to test scores, to graduation rates. It has become a promising model of how to break the cycles of poverty, violence, and disease that affect families through the practice of trauma-informed educational strategies. The film is a testament to what the latest research on childhood adversity is proving: one caring adult can change the trajectory of a young person’s life. A panel of experts will moderate a discussion on the film following the screening. Please join us on April 21st at 7PM for Sweet Thursday when we welcome Bay Area author Joshua Braff. Braff’s most recent novel The Daddy Diaries is a funny and honest tale of a stay-at-home dad and his two pre-teen kids who’ve been uprooted from California to a small Florida beach town. While the kids navigate the difficulties of adolescence, the father faces the challenges of parenting, marriage, and trying to make a life in a very different place. This is a free event from The Friends. Looking ahead, here are a couple events to note on your calendar for May: Wednesday the 11th, 2-4PM, Wonders of the World: Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive; Saturday, May 14th, 1-4PM, Holy Hallelujah Batman returns at ComicFest 2016. More details will be given next month. And who do you thank for all these wonderful happenings? The answer is a great staff, phenomenal volunteers, and a precious corner of our world inhabited by The Friends Corner Book Shop, selling gently used books since 1967! The next Half-Price Sale will be held on May 7th from 9AM-5PM when you can see which books of the 20,000 available need to come home with you.
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50 Years Ago
Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 7
Lafayette's Been Fighting a Long Time for its ‘Semi-Rural’ Nature By Ruth Bailey, Lafayette Historical Society
“New Shopping Center Proposed at Entrance”: that was the headline greeting Lamorindans on April 8, 1966, as they opened their copies of the Lafayette Sun. It referenced a proposed shopping center to be developed at the western entrance to our town—a proposal made to the Lafayette Improvement Association and the Design Project. “Lafayette attorney Ned Robinson made the presentation for his client, Earl Clark, a Kensington developer with offices in Oakland. The proposal calls for a shopping center at the west entrance to Lafayette, on the south side of the freeway. It would be between Sunset Village and Orchard Nursery on the planned extension of Mount Diablo Blvd. “The 12-acre center calls for 3-to-1 parking space and would be developed under Planned Unit Development. The density would be the same as if it were a one-half acre subdivision, according to Robinson. NEW YEAR “With the extension of Mount Diablo Blvd., the commercial 'island' will be created by the new offNEW FLOORS! ramp.” Robinson explained that Clark purchased all of the former E.P. “Red” Soule land, as well as the upper area. Asked whether he would be willing to dedicate the upper parcel to open land, the developer said that he didn't want to make a decision at that time. “The property seeks to change the present multiple zoning to commercial zoning on 12 acres. The adjoining land would be • CARPET changed from multiple to a lesser density,” Robinson pointed out. • HARDWOOD LIA officers McFarland, George A. Wasson and Andrew H. Young were appointed by LIA president Richard Mallot to study • RUGS the proposal and report back to the Improvement Association Board. Come in Today! “Several LIA directors pointed out that the association has consistently opposed creation of new commercial areas. Zoning to the • LINOLEUM present M-R-B was opposed by the LIA and other Lafayette organizations, including the Hidden Valley Homeowners Association. “The land had previously been zoned single-family residential, and the rezoning had prompted a taxpayers' suit against the Family Owned Business county Board of Supervisors—it was brought in 1962 and heard in 1964. Since 1989 The county Planning Commission had recommended against the rezoning and the supervisors had reversed this decision. 3344 Mt. Diablo Blvd. However, the taxpayers lost the suit, and Soule has since sold the land to a southern California developer. Lafayette, CA “The land is now zoned multiple with the exception of Orchard Nursery, which is classified as non-conforming commercial use 925.284.4440 of the land, since it was there prior to the rezoning.” We still have that lovely grassy hillside to admire at the western entrance to town when returning home from the City. And the www.LamorindaFloors.com License# 708486 Reservoir stands untouched—no A&W stand nor used car lot to detract from the entrance.
GRAND RE-OPENING SPECIALS!
Lafayette Hiking Group
To participate in the hikes, meet in the parking lot out from Lafayette BART’s main entrance at 8:30AM unless otherwise noted. Bring lunch or snacks, water, layered clothing, good walking shoes, sun protection, and money for parking or BART.
Saturday, April 16 ~ St. Stephen’s Trail - Lafayette to Orinda
Walk from the Lafayette BART, to El Nido Ranch Road, to the St. Stephen's Drive overcrossing and continue on the St. Stephen’s Trail parallel to Highway 24 into downtown Orinda. Return via Orinda BART or an optional longer round-trip walk back to the Lafayette BART. Any rain cancels. This is an easy, flat, four mile, one way hike. The hike leaders are Rosemarie Ellsworth and Dean Weiss.
Saturday, April 23 ~ Reservoir Rim Trail
Meet at Lafayette BART and walk to the Reservoir (approximately 1.5 miles each way). Those who prefer a shorter hike, may meet near the entry gate and bathrooms at the dam around 9AM. We will hike the full Rim Trail, which has two very steep hills. Wear boots or shoes with good tread, and bring hiking poles if you use them. There will be great views of Lafayette and beyond. Any rain cancels. The Rim Trail is 4.7 miles and the full hike is about 7.7 miles. The hike is challenging with steep hills. Hike leaders are Rosemarie Ellsworth and Dean Weiss.
Saturday, April 30 ~ Special Climate Hike to Russell Peak, Briones
**Meet in the Happy Valley Elementary school parking lot at 9AM. *** Steve Richard, one of the founders of Sustainable Lafayette, will lead a “climate hike” to Russell Peak. This is a fantastic 3.4 mile loop that starts near Happy Valley Elementary school and reaches panoramic Russell Peak (1,357 feet) in Briones Regional Park. Along the way Steve, who was recently trained by the Climate Reality Project, will provide a handful of 3-5 minute updates on the climate crisis, including the impact of the historic agreement reached in Paris. Snacks and beverages will be provided at the summit. The hike is moderate to strenuous. For more details, visit https://lamorindahikes.com/2012/11/08/russellpeak-loop.
Assistance League’s Operation School Bell Celebrates 50,000 Children Clothed
One of ten philanthropic programs, Assistance League® of Diablo Valley’s nationally acclaimed Operation School Bell® has reached a milestone by clothing 50,000 children since 1994. Save the date, Saturday, April 23, to help celebrate at the chapter’s primary fundraiser, Assistance League Way Side Inn Thrift Shop, located at 3521 Golden Gate Way in Lafayette. Long-time hands-on supporter California State Assembly Member, District 14, Susan Bonilla, known for her child advocacy, will highlight the event, and Contra Costa Supervisor of District 4 Karen Mitchoff will also be on hand. Festivities will begin at 11AM and include refreshments, gift certificate drawings, and discount coupons for the Thrift Shop. HelpAssistance League celebrate how providing clothes for schoolchildren results in improved school attendance, campus citizenship, and academic performance. To learn more about Assistance League of Diablo Valley and the Way Side Inn Thrift Shop, please visit diablovalley.assistanceleague.org.
Gold Coast Chamber Players Present Boundless
Boundless, the fifth and final concert of Gold Coast Chamber Player’s 2015-2016 series, showcases music by J.S. Bach, Claude Debussy, and Dmitri Shostakovich for piano and strings. The concert will be held on Saturday, May 7 at 7:30PM at the Lafayette Library Community Hall, 3491 Mt. Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette. A pre-concert talk will start the evening at 7PM. San Francisco Symphony associate concertmaster, Nadya Tichman, returns to Gold Coast for the first time in over twenty years and brings with her some of her most distinguished colleagues from the SF Symphony, including Gold Coast favorite, cellist Amos Yang. Ticket price includes complimentary champagne, a pre-concert talk at 7PM, and a reception with the musicians following the performance. Tickets are $37.50 general, $32.50 seniors and $15 for students and are available at www.gcplayers.org and by phone at (925) 283-3728. Free garage parking is available at the library on Golden Gate Way. Seating is limited, so please reserve early.
The Writing Studio Lamorinda Weekly 3.875 x 4 April 2016.pdf
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Page 8 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
Walking the Reservoir and the Deck
The Writing Studio
By Jim Scala
Asia’s National Bird. I always take skyline pictures to characterize A Camp for Young Writers June 13-July a city. However, after leaving Sidney and entering Asia, every scene was 1 July 5-A u gu st 5 dominated by construction cranes. I’ve concluded it’s Asia’s national bird. Dragons are real! Our ship anchored off Komodo Island where the Join CAMP YOUNG WRITERS this summer as your children enter a world of CREATIVE NARRATIVE and ABSORBING ESSAY-BASED Komodo Dragons live. Visualize the small Lafayette lizards that catch WRITING PROJECTS. Through grade appropriate classes and insects, ten-feet long and proportioned correctly. Diane Sasser and I, one-on- one sessions, students learn proper sentence structure, along with other cruisers, tendered ashore to see them. Groups of 15 the elements of well-written essays, creative use of descriptive people are led along a well-marked jungle trail. words, correct grammar, usage, and so much more. Diane’s group was surprised when a young, greenish-brown, threeCAMP YOUNG WRITERS is open to students in grades 3-12 who foot dragon crossed in front of them. Similarly, I was in awe when a strive to improve their writing skills. Projects consist of first person large, long-tusked, wild boar barreled in front of us. In the hot, humid narratives, historical biographies and literature analyses. Our camps jungle, the dense foliage included many palm trees, orchids of various will take place June 13-July 1 and July 5-August 5; sessions will be colors, and the plentiful, pungently smelling herb, lemon grass. The dragon’s watering hole was held three days per week, 2-5 pm. For further information, please call surrounded by six, eight-to-ten foot dragons, with heads held high and constantly flicking their 925-385-0211 or visit us at large, yellow, forked tongues. Like snakes, they smell with their tongue. www.lafayettewritingstudio.com. Komodo Dragons can run 27 miles per hour. Being cold blooded, they can’t run long or far, THE WRITING STUDIO Where Words Come to Life but they don’t need to. With saliva rich in deadly microbes, they simply inflict a small bite and follow the bitten prey that will soon fall to the ground. Then, they enjoy a leisurely dragon meal. 3455 Golden Gate Way, Suite A, Lafayette (925) 385-0211 Diane summarized it simply, “Komodo Island is a fascinating place to visit, but not to live.” What animal has a human-like fingerprint? In Darwin, Australia’s zoo we held a Koala Bear, and the above question was answered. Walking among emus, ostriches and kangaroos, some with a baby –a Joey – in their pouch, was exciting. Malaysia’s two cities spell success. Our ship docked at a small island about 1.5 hours by bus from Kuala Lumpur. We learned that in addition to high rise apartments and shopping centers under construction, the small island will soon boast a Disneyland. The Kuala Lumpur skyline was dominated by the most imaginative high-rise buildings and construction cranes. City traffic appeared moderate for such a large city. We learned that the extensive bus system is free, and commuters park outside the city. Additionally, many downtown walkways are covered and airconditioned, sheltering you from the rain and intense heat. Hence, it’s easy to get around without cars. Kuala’s landmarks are well preserved and easy to visit. Next stop was Penang, Malaysia’s island city. Besides its skyline dominated by a multitude of high-rise buildings and Asia’s national bird, it boasts the world’s fourth largest reclining Buddha in a beautiful temple. Rickshaws get you through traffic while keeping a third-world way of travel in a first-world city. Borobudur, the world’s largest Stupa. Any visit to Java requires a visit to this World Heritage site. A stupa is a mound-like structure where, at the top, Buddhist Monks meditate and achieve nirvana. Built in the eighth century from volcanic stone, it covers over an acre, and when you stand at the base, it seems to reach the sky. We climbed stairs and stopped to explore each of its six circular and three square platforms that contain 504 Buddhist statues, 2,672 sculpted relief panels, and 1,460 narrative panels. When we were at the top we had climbed over 272 steps, and we marveled at the large dome with a Buddha. At the top, in Indonesia’s high heat and humidity, it felt like we had been swimming. It’s hard to believe that a structure so monumental had been abandoned by its makers. Bangkok, Buddhas, and beauty. At once this city is both tranquil and bustling. Every view shows a skyline boasting high-rise buildings of amazing architecture, but look away and in many areas there are small alcoves of thatched huts, shops, and stalls. Its tall buildings dwarf its many, beautiful, Buddhist temples. As our boat negotiated the river, we saw a third city. Elegant wooden boats navigated with tugs pulling several barges against its modern skyline backdrop and elegant, golden, Buddhist temples. Turning into the canal we saw the Bangkok of old where people lived on and off the water. We saw vendors in small boats, children swimming, women washing clothes, and banana trees growing by the small houses. Lafayette’s senior walking group grows stronger. Toni Lewis keeps me posted about the res-walkers. They meet at the center bench and start walking by 9AM on Tuesday and Thursday and informally on Saturday and Monday. Walking three times weekly provides excellent fitness, and there’s always great conversation. Let me hear from you: jscala2@comcast.net. C
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Please Your Palate, Save Your Planet By Monica Chappell
As Earth Day approaches, why not discover a few eco-friendly wine styles to toast the planet? Earth Day is a perfect time to spotlight sustainably produced wines which are both delicious and environmentally responsible. Can there be Green wine? The Green wine category showcases the wines and wineries that use sustainable, organic and/or biodynamic practices both in the vineyard and/or winemaking process
Organic
Although there are no government standards for sustainable agriculture, practitioners generally promote both ecological and social responsibility
This particularly intense school of agriculture has both organic and spiritual aspects. Biodynamic agriculture views the farm as a single organism, with the plants, animals, crops, soil, air and celestial influences, such as the moon and stars, all interconnected. By balancing these elements, the farmer, in theory, makes his property self-sustaining, thus eliminating
See Wine continued on page 11
$$$
$$$
10.00 Bonus Coupon!
Present this coupon at point of purchase for 10.00 off your one-time combined purchase of 50.00 or more in Mens, Boys, Kids, Womens, Jr’s, Lingerie, Shoes 1 coupon per family. Not valid on previous purchases, other coupons and/or promotions. No cash substitutes. May not be used on payment of account. Pandora, Brighton, Boy Scouts, Estee Lauder, Clinique, Lancome, Fragrance Dept., TOMS and UGG excluded. Expires April 30, 2016
Lafayette • Danville • Countrywood • Concord Montclair • Orinda • Moraga • Sonoma • Auburn • Stockton
Sustainable
Biodynamic
The use of the term organic is defined by the USDA: For a wine to be labeled organic, the vineyards from which the grapes are picked must be farmed without synthetic fertilizers, conventional pesticides or genetically engineered plant material. In addition, sulfites cannot be added to the wine as a preservative. Unfortunately, wines made without sulfites can re-ferment or oxidize in the bottle. That’s why many winemakers who use organic grapes also add sulfites. If their wines contain less than 100 parts per million, they are still permitted to label their wines “made with organic grapes.”
by avoiding pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, and by enriching soil with cover crops and composts.
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Three Steps to Helping Your Teen Be Resilient
Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 9
By Sheryl Kline, M.A., Mental Toughness Coach for Teens
Has your teen ever failed to execute or made an error in a high-pressure situation just to have it happen over and over again? This is the number one frustration I hear time and again. I’ll give you the bad news first. Everyone makes errors, even our favorite professional athletes! There are plenty of examples across high level sports and academics. It’s part of being human. Elite athletes and seasoned students, however, know how to compartmentalize the emotions associated with errors, and they know how to react. It’s not if teens will make an error, it’s when. When they do, their recovery is important. The good news is that there’s something teens can do to avoid the downward spiral, so they can get back to doing their best: Be resilient. Here’s how. 1. Recognize what I call ‘red’ emotions (ie: anger, frustration, disappointment, etc.) after an error is made. Understand that it is ok and normal, but not useful to you, while involved in high performance. For example, if a volleyball player dumps a ball into the net, she may think, “That’s so frustrating!” When a student doesn’t know an answer on an exam, he may think, “I am really worried about this.” 2. Release the emotion. Make peace with it, and ask it to move aside. The volleyball player might think, “I’m super frustrated, but it’s ok.” “I can deal with it when I am out.” So, make a conscious decision to defer (not get rid of) your emotion to an appropriate time. Usually taking a very deep breath in through your nose for a count of 4-6, holding for two seconds, and releasing your breath helps with this. Think of your emotion leaving you when you exhale. The next time you have an opportunity, it may be helpful to write down in a small journal/notebook one thing that you were upset about. Get it out of your head onto paper, and deal with it at an appropriate time. 3. Strategize how to get back on track. Think about your error in terms of what you learned from it, not what you did wrong. Ask yourself, “What can I do right now that I have 100% control over improve?” Do that. In other words, replay how NEW YEAR to the sequence should have gone. Then choose the • CARPET NEW FLOORS! most important thing you will need to improve. The • HARDWOOD volleyball player may think, “I need to toss the ball RUGS higher and have a better follow through.” The student • CARPET CUSTOM RUGS might say to himself, “Sit up straight, and read the • HARDWOOD next question carefully.” • RUGS LINOLEUM Mistakes are going to happen, and so are the emotions that come along with them. If you can • LINOLEUM TILE be resilient and learn to recognize, release, and strategize, you will be able to recover like a champion Family Owned Business for the best outcome possible. Since 1989 Sheryl Kline, M.A. CMT is a Mental Toughness 3344 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Coach, published author, and speaker who is in Lafayette, CA private practice here in Lafayette. Follow her on 925.284.4440 Facebook at www.Facebook.com/sheryllklinema. www.LamorindaFloors.com She can be reached at (925) 285-0526 or Sheryl@ License# 708486 Advertorial SherylKline.com.
4-H continued from front page
Last year, she showed her horse and pig at the CCC Fair. This year, she’s showing poultry and rabbits. She loves connecting with the animals and being with her friends at shows. “Washing and picking up poo doesn’t get bad after awhile, too!” says Caitlynn. “Showing is competitive and is hard when you are against people who have time to practice every single day.” Eleven year-old Dreya Cox is a Springhill Elementary School student who started 4-H five years ago. “My mom saw an article in the newspaper, and since she knows I love animals, she thought it would be a good fit,” says Dreya, who also hopes to one day become a veterinarian. “My mom also liked it because my sisters and brother can all do it too.” Dreya started raising rabbits at an early age. “Rabbits was a great project, and I had a great project leader, plus they are cuddly,” she says. Dreya participates in shows about once every other month where she appears before a judge who examines her rabbit while she explains the animal’s different aspects. Her rabbits are Lionheads – one of the newest breeds to be recognized by the American Rabbit Breeders Association. The shower receives points for how well he/she handles the rabbit and how well he/she answers the judge’s questions. She enjoys seeing the many different breeds at the shows, and she likes spending time with other competitors, many from other counties and whom she has gotten to know over the years. “Many people want their animal to win the show, but I want to win my bracket for showmanship,” says Dreya. “Sometimes having the best animal is just luck because it’s hard to tell what a baby animal will look like when it grows up. But if you work hard, anyone can do well in showmanship. Buyers at the auction typically pay more for an animal if you do well in showmanship because they know you put a lot of effort into taking care of it and working with it.” Dreya also shows chickens. “My family already had chickens, so I figured why not try showing them and doing showmanship with them,” she says. “The chicken project is fun because you usually hatch out a batch, and the chicks are so cute. Plus, my mom likes that we get fresh eggs. There are some really funny looking ones too like the Polish--it has puffy feathers on its head, and it looks like it can't see where it's going.” Once Dreya turned nine, the age at which 4-Hers can move to large animals, she started with horses and pigs, and now she shows Boer goats. “I really want to learn about a bunch of animals to see what ones we want to have later year round on our farm. As a meat goat you only have this animal for a few months before Fair, so you get a feel for how much work it is to raise this animal year round, but you are also not committed to a
See 4-H continued on page 20
Page 10 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
Energy Matters
The National Demographics of Solar PV By Mark Becker, GoSimpleSolar
Energy Alert! If you’re considering going solar in the near future, I highly recommend you change your PGE electric rate to an E6 “Time of Use” (TOU) rate. This rate will remain in place for seven more years, but it is closing to new customers on May 2nd. The E6 TOU rate provides best arbitrage of the rate structure and maximum solar investment return unless you have an electric car AND have solar PV. You may have short-term higher costs on this rate until you “go solar,” but most likely you’ll save slightly more on the E6 rate post solar vs. the new “A or B” TOU rates which are taking its place. The solar photovoltaic “movement” continues to gain steam in many parts of our nation, for many reasons. The primary driver is virtually always economics. A solar investment is certainly advantaged by sunny weather patterns, but financial returns are also driven by policy, electric kWh cost, and utility rate structures. Some states have strong pro-solar policies, yet others adopt policies that intentionally harm the solar PV investment. Perhaps it’s special interests that influence our legislators on both sides of the issue. In Washington DC, Federal solar policy is mostly bi-partisan policy. At the state level, it’s apparent that the opposite is true. SolarPowerRocks.com has a very interesting interactive map of the USA that generates a “Solar Scorecard” for each state. Concerning the “Solar Scorecard” data below: Please draw your own conclusions relating economic, political, and educational demographics as influences and factors to the referenced states’ adoption of pro-solar or anti-solar policy. I am just fact gathering; I’m not trying to make any political statements or generalizations. “Solar Scorecard” grading system is a traditional “A” through “F.” The metrics to assign grades are measured by Internal Rate of Return (IRR) achieved by a solar investment in each state. An “A” grade generally provides a 10-20%+ Internal Rate of Return (IRR) for a solar investment, whereas an “F” grade averages 5-6% rate of return. States high in mineral resources: Not surprisingly, the “coal-rich” and “oil rich” states as a group failed the Solar Scorecard. They all earned an F, except for
Swedenborgian Church By Linda Summers-Pirkle
Our flight from Paris to Stockholm-Skavsta Airport arrived at 11:30PM. My eldest daughter, my son, and I caught the Flygbussarna bus for the hour and half journey to central Stockholm. It was a magical experience for me to be in Sweden on a cold winter night in the middle of a snowstorm. With gusty winds, snowflakes coming down, and the sound of some sort of gulls squawking above, we walked the city block to our lovely hotel. It was one of those perfect travel moments! On the flight back to the States, I recalled one of my favorite local group trips: “Sacred Places.” Visiting local churches and temples, a standout was the gem Swedenborgian Church in Pacific Heights, San Francisco. As Kevin Starr, former City Librarian of San Francisco and Visiting Fellow at the Hoover Institution, wrote, “San Francisco is a city of architecturally distinguished churches, and one of the most distinguished-the Swedenborgian Church-is one of the most inconspicuous. Hundreds drive by it every day without noticing it; and yet once you enter this lovely church, you know at once that you are inside an architectural jewel.” Swedenborgian is not the official church of Sweden, rather the Protestant Christian denomination is based on the writings and teachings of the scientist and mystic Emanuel Swedenborg (1688-1772) who was originally from Sweden. He had Swedish Lutheran roots, but the liturgical tradition comes from the Anglican Church in England. Some notables who were followers of Swedenborgian include Johnny Appleseed, Victor Hugo, William Blake, Robert Frost, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Carl Jung, Helen Keller, and many more. The tiny “garden church,” located on the corner of Lyon and Washington Streets, is over 100 years old and has historical significance with ties to the naturalist John Muir, painter William Keith, architect A. Page Brown, draftsman Bernard Maybeck, and the Reverend Joseph Worchester. The Mediterranean and Mission-Revival influence can be seen in the simple elegant rounded brick arches, tile roofing, Clinker bricks, and Christian Cross inspired iron work. John Gwynn, docent at the Swedenborgian Church, gave me a wonderful tour of the private garden, meeting room where the weekly coffee is held, and the
www.yourmonthlypaper.com California, which earned a B. Of course, solar energy competes directly with coal and oil. Coal and oil employment is plummeting. The solar industry accounts for 1 of every 78 new jobs in our nation. Economics: Median income defines the “richest” and “poorest” states. The richest states have a B+ Solar GPA on the Solar Scorecard. The poorest states each have an F score. The states with the highest poverty levels also have an F. States with the highest unemployment have a D+. Education: The ten most educated states have an A-. The least educated states had a D-. Political affiliation: “Blue” states versus “Red” states? The top ten A Solar Scorecard states are “traditionally blue” (when using historical Electoral College data to determine party affiliation). Each one of the F Solar Scorecard states is traditionally “Red.” As noted, the Federal Government (consisting of Representatives and Senator’s from individual states) have a significantly more bi-partisan view on solar. Solar seems to be one of the few things that people can agree on nowadays. Generally, solar is beloved by both parties. Motivations are that it’s good for the environment, and can be part of an excellent investment strategy. The summary at face value of the Solar Scorecard seems obvious. I’ll grant that things are not always as they seem, yet the facts indicate that lower income, higher unemployment, high poverty states with large and heavily subsidized fossil fuel industries have the lowest solar PV adoption, even though they may be in regions that could very much financially advantage adopters. What is conjecture is WHY these demographics play out as they have. Is it really all about partisan politics and special interests that drive or stop this solar phenomenon? Have we gotten away from a free market? Everyone wants choice. Solar provides choice of energy provider. In Florida, solar has made strange bedfellows. The Green Party and the Tea party partnered to form the “Green Tea Party” politic for free market energy provider choice. The visuals of the map on SolarPowerRocks.com are pretty powerful and interesting to ponder. Fortunately, we live in a state with all the right ingredients to make solar PV a stable and reliable investment, if “done right.” Mark Becker is the President and business owner of GoSimpleSolar, by Semper Fidelis Construction Inc, CSLB 948715. GoSimpleSolar is one of the very few solar PV installers utilizing both licensed roofers and licensed electricians for installation work, project managed by a solar PV NABCEP professional. For more information visit www.GoSimpleSolar.com. Advertorial lovely church. He pointed out the shell font where Robert Frost was baptized, the beautiful murals by the artist William Keith, the historical chairs made by the Scotsman A.J. Forbes, and the eight Ma- Swedenborgian Church in Pacific Heights, S.F. Photo by Marina Baklanova. drone tree trunks from the Santa Cruz mountains that are used as pillars in the church. Two stunning stained glass windows, the Dove and St. Christopher made by the renowned stained glass designer and maker Bruce Porter, are the jewels of the church. The Swedenborgian Church is a National Historic Landmark, the only religious institution in San Francisco with this designation and the only one listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. I was not able to attend a service, but I can only imagine how warm and inviting it is when a fire is roaring in the massive fireplace and the many candles are lit. Even the stone floors are warmed by water pipes underground. This church is a cozy refuge and place of beauty. Swedenborgian Church is located at 2107 Lyon Street. Their phone number is 415-346-6466, and their website is sfswedenborgian.org. Sunday worship is at 11am. Call for tour times and prices. It is a very popular venue for weddings and receptions. Just a few blocks from Swedenborgian Church is “b. on the Go” restaurant. The most popular menu item is the Chicken Grec which is very tasty but my favorite is the Banh mi sandwich with pork belly, cucumbers, jalapeño, pickled carrots and daikon with spicy mayo. Delicious! The address is 2791 California Street. Their hours are 11AM-4PM daily except Mondays. Linda Summers Pirkle is inspired by the many wonderful places to visit in the Bay Area, she organizes day trips, either for groups or for friends and family. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas email Coverthemap@gmail.com.
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Lafayette Monthly Appraisals
By Erin Martin, Village Associates Real Estate
Thank you for your comments and phone calls after last month’s article on downsizing. Gaging the responses I received, the article struck a cord for many local residents. The lack of options is an issue and unfortunately one that is not easily resolved. Lafayette is a wonderful place because there are so many generations of families who stay in Lafayette – we need to ensure that downsizers have affordable options and can remain a part of the community that they have lived in and supported for so many years. Recently clients of mine made an offer on a home that received multiple offers, one of which was all cash. In order to compete with the all cash offer, my clients waived their appraisal and loan contingencies despite knowing that there was a good chance the property would not appraise. In the past six months there were very few sales in close proximity to the property that were similar in terms of lot size, square footage, condition of the home, and purchase price. The lack of inventory that we have experienced makes finding three sold comps and two pending or active comps in the past six months, which is what lenders generally require, a challenge for appraisers. My clients made the decision that they were willing to risk making up the difference between the sales price and the appraised value because they loved the home and ultimately because they were tired of losing out to cash buyers who don’t need an appraisal or other buyers who waived the appraisal contingency. Prior to waiving the contingency, we went through worst case scenarios and ran the numbers to determine how much more money they would need to come up with based on financing of 80% loan-to-value. An appraisal determines how much a lender will loan a buyer on a given property. My clients were comfortable with the worst case scenario. We waited nervously to hear the outcome of the appraisal. By law appraisals must be done by a third party who has no interest in the outcome. The appraiser is selected by an Appraisal Management Company. A week after meeting the appraiser at the subject property, my clients received a report and were shocked to find out that the property appraised for $210,000 below the purchase price. Immediately we scrambled and ordered a new appraisal that came in three days later at the purchase price. Fortunately, my clients could breathe a sigh of relief and did not need to show up with an additional $168,000 at closing. Two separate appraisers came up with such different values within days of each other. Often appraisers who are from out of town or who are not familiar with local neighborhoods miss the mark when it comes to local home prices. In this particular case, the appraiser who came in low had not seen the comps and was comparing apples to oranges. Realtor Magazine recently found that the top reasons for closing delays and cancellations involves appraisal issues. The third most common reason for cancellation of a contract is the appraisal. In fact, 11% percent of cancellations can be attributed to a property not being valued at the sale’s price by the appraiser. In 18% of escrows the appraisal is the cause of delays in closings. As a buyer and as a seller it is crucial to understand the appraisal process and to have a Realtor who can advocate appropriately to ensure that your escrow does not fall through due to a low appraisal. Comps are hard to come by when there is low inventory, and it is essential that realtors give appraisers the most up-to-date info including the number of offers and how many are cash and the condition of the property. Buyers really need to educate themselves on the process and have a game plan for how to handle low appraisals, especially because sellers often have buyers in back up and are unwilling to negotiate a price reduction due to a low appraisal. Please feel free to call or email me with your real estate questions or for a free home evaluation. I can be reached at (925) 951-3817 or by email at erin@erinmartinhomes.com. Advertorial
Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 11
Wine continued from page 8
the need for artificial nutrients or pesticides.
Natural
A small, strict, mostly French movement, “natural” winemaking uses organic grapes that are farmed and picked by hand, and are fermented with native (not manufactured) yeasts. No sulfites or other additives go into natural wine. What does it all mean?? Wine drinkers who care about how wine is made need to know the wine producer. After all, it’s the integrity of the winemaker that matters more than any certification process. And when you find a winemaker with both talent and integrity, you’ll probably find the best wines, natural or otherwise. Monica Chappell teaches and writes about wine. Contact wineappreciation101@gmail.com for more information about upcoming wine programs.
Page 12 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
County Considering Alternative Electricity Provider By Supervisor Candace Andersen Contra Costa County, District 2
The option to choose an alternative electricity provider for cleaner energy is a growing trend in the Bay Area and may be coming your way soon. Assembly Bill 117, Community Choice Aggregation (CCA), passed in 2002, enables local governments to procure and/or develop power on behalf of their public facilities, residents, and businesses. It creates a functional partnership between municipalities and existing utilities. It has proven to increase renewable energy and lower greenhouse gases while providing competitive electricity rates. In 2010, Marin Clean Energy (MCE) became the first CCA agency certified in California. Sonoma Clean Power (SCP) was the second, in 2014. Both MCE and SCP are Joint Powers Authorities (JPAs) composed of the host county and various cities. During 2013 and 2014, the Contra Costa cities of Richmond, San Pablo, and El Cerrito joined MCE, and residents of those cities are now served by MCE. The cities of Lafayette and Walnut Creek recently took steps to join MCE, as well. A number of cities and counties in California are currently in the process of implementing or studying the formation of CCA agencies, including the counties of Alameda, Santa Clara, San Mateo, Santa Barbara, San Diego, Los Angeles, and the City and County of San Francisco. San Francisco has obtained certification of its CCA Implementation Plan from the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC). Other members of MCE outside Marin County include the City of Benicia and unincorporated Napa County. Last month, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors directed staff to work with interested cities in Contra Costa County to obtain electrical load data from PG&E to conduct a technical study to compare the following three CCA alternatives: 1. Form a new joint powers authority comprised of the County and interested cities within Contra Costa County for the purpose of implementing Community Choice Energy. 2. Join Marin Clean Energy (MCE).
www.yourmonthlypaper.com 3. Form a new joint powers authority with Alameda County and the interested group of cities in the two-county region. The PG&E data will provide current electricity usage that will help evaluate the needs and cost of purchasing future electricity. Formation of a CCA agency in Contra Costa County could involve the creation of a JPA between the County and cities within the County that are interested in participating. Under such a scenario, the CCA agency would be a separate entity from the County, with an independent governing board. If a CCA is formed, transmission and delivery, as well as billing, will continue to be provided by PG&E. Customers will have the ability to opt out of the program and continue to buy their electricity through PG&E, which continues to increase their clean energy options. The CCA cleaner energy pertains only to electricity; all natural gas will still be delivered by PG&E. Current PG&E programs for low income/CARE customers will remain the same. CCA electric generation charges will appear as new line items on the customer bill; all other charges remain the same. There are numerous potential benefits associated with local government participation in CCA. Some of these benefits are increased production and supply of electricity derived from renewable sources, such as wind and solar; options for residents to receive electricity from a local public agency governed by officials who would be responsive to the interests of the local community; introduction of competition into the electricity market in Contra Costa County; creation of additional consumer choices; creation of market pressure for improved service by all electricity providers; opportunities for lower electricity rates for consumers; procurement of renewable energy from local sources creating construction jobs; and ongoing revenue streams to the local economy. County staff expects it will take ten months to work with cities to develop and complete the technical study, and it will then present the findings to the Board of Supervisors and City Councils for a decision about how to proceed. 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.
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Technology Matters
Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 13
By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO
“The cloud” didn’t happen overnight. It’s been growing and gaining momentum since the mid-1980’s when the first web page was created. The cloud, or using computing infrastructure housed somewhere outside of our own home or business, is only possible because of the massive amount of worldwide networking that has been installed since the 1980’s. While we the consumer have been busy slurping up networking products through the retail channel, buying laptops, smartphones, tablets and WiFi routers, the telecom sector has been investing billions in new network infrastructure. They’ve been running high-capacity fiber-optic networks, laying new cables to business parks and neighborhoods, and spending hundreds of millions of dollars on new datacenter switching equipment to move all of this data we use. These upgrades are what now make it possible to re-image a computer over the internet, or to stream full-length HD movies as easily as we once checked our email. The speed and quantity of data we can access is mind-boggling compared with just a few short years ago. These changes come gradually, so it’s easy to forget how far we’ve come. Do you remember just a few short years ago we were complaining because we couldn’t get DSL to our homes to check our AOL email? Back then, our business was paying $400/month for a puny 1.5mb “T1” circuit that was considered the business standard for internet bandwidth. For the most part, these are now forgotten technologies. Now it’s common for Comcast to bring 100mb internet circuits into people’s homes, and we’re pulling multi-hundred megabyte fiberoptic circuits into our business data-centers so we can run several simultaneous full-motion video conferences with remote offices. Many business trips can be eliminated just by using the electronic tools we now have at our fingertips. It’s this explosion of network capacity which has created “the cloud” and gives us the luxury of deciding where our data and applications are housed. If you have a reliable internet connection, you can run your entire world from a simple laptop without compromise, storing nothing locally and being completely productive. This growth of network capacity has also made possible things that we wouldn’t have dreamed of before. For instance, when we started PCIO in 2001, a lot of people kept music collections on their home computers. This was long before iTunes, when people would “rip” their collection of CD’s to extract the songs into a digital format they could play on their portable MP3 music player. The network has changed all of this. Today, if someone still bothers to keep a huge music collection, we set it up for remote backups via the very fast ‘broadband’ internet connection you have at your home or workplace, using a service such as Crashplan or Carbonite. However, it’s even more common these days for someone to completely eschew the hassle of maintaining a personal music collection. Most people I know have stopped collecting music and just let Pandora and Spotify be their disc jockey. It’s a lot less hassle, and for a small monthly fee, you have access to an enormous and ever-growing music library that someone else maintains for you. A more important change resulting from this explosion of network capacity has been our ability to work remotely. It has completely changed the way we look at our workforce. Services such as Webex, GotoMyPC, or Logmein require fast networks to operate, and now it’s completely normal for us to work from home and have video conferences for meetings or for product demonstrations. Remote workers often use what’s called a VOIP telephone (voice over internet protocol), which lets them take their work telephone and plug it in anywhere there’s an internet connection. When their telephone connects to the network, it registers itself with the telephone service and lets the system know to accept telephone calls at that number. In this way, your business telephone system can span not just buildings or cities, but countries. It fundamentally shifts how we can communicate with our workforce, enabling highly distributed teams that previously would have been prohibitively expensive to create. Our own company uses this model, with one of our employees operating from another state. It works seamlessly, and this technology has enabled us to hold onto a very wonderful and valuable employee. Every day we find another way to make your business more efficient, computing more reliable, our data a little safer. We’re excited about the possibilities these innovations have created. Maybe it’s time to consider an evaluation of your technology plan. We’d love to help you reach your goals. You can reach us at info@theportablecio.com, or 925-552-7953. Advertorial
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Lindsay continued from front page about the fate of native wildlife brought her to Lindsay – a place she feels is the premiere destination for children’s educational programs about wildlife. “I realized that I wasn’t going to make a difference by publishing research papers, writing species management plans, or training graduate-level ecologists,” she says. “The fate of wildlife and the ecosystems on which they rely is now in the hands of children.” Lindsay is unique its approach to forging an indelible bond between people and wildlife. Their Rehabilitation Hospital is a pioneer in wildlife rehabilitation and is one of the oldest and largest rehab centers in the country, with a team of veterinarians, staff, and approximately 500 volunteers treating more than 5,500 injured, sick, or orphaned wild animals each year. When veterinarians and vet techs assess an animal’s chance of recovery and whether it can be released successfully back into its natural habitat, quality of life is paramount. While release is the goal, some of those who cannot ultimately fend for themselves in the wild find a home at Lindsay. When full permanent residency capacity is reached, the Museum’s nationwide network is tapped to find homes for those in need. Lindsay’s Wildlife Hospital Behind the Scenes presentations allow for a real time peek at animal exams and treatment that prepare patients for healthy release back to the wild. It is this behind-the-scenes hospital work that is the backbone of Lindsay’s existence. During this springtime ‘Baby Busy Season,’ as Hospital Manager Eugenie Riberi calls it, the number of creatures treated increases dramatically. “Birds are falling out of nests, or succumbing to predators,” says Riberi as she walks through the busy halls of the hospital where approximately 350 volunteers donate 60,000 hours of service each year, including home care for creatures requiring round-theclock attention. Seventy-five percent of patients are birds, and the rest are mammals. Lindsay’s Director of Veterinary Services Dr. Guthrum Purdin recalls the red-tail hawk caught in barbed wire and the albatross with a fishhook stuck in its beak. About 95% of animals treated are admitted due to collision with human activity.
See Lindsay continued on page 17
Page 14 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
Which Critter is Destroying my Landscaping? By Nate Rubin, Tri Valley Trapper
Spring is here and there is an outcropping of new plant growth and people preparing their gardens. Below is information to help you understand the most common landscape pests, what their activity looks like, and the most productive deterrent or removal methods. GOPHERS: This tiny herbivore can wreak havoc in all areas of your landscaping and lawn. Gophers are basically an underground rat with massive beaver-like teeth meant to chew thru roots and plants. The activity we see are holes and mounds of dirt caused by the gopher excavating surface tunnels. At least one new hole or mound is created each day as he extends the surface burrow to find more food. The gophers’ hole is approximately three inches across. He throws dirt off to one side of the surface hole in a fan shaped mound. When finished excavating, he pushes a dirt plug into the hole to seal off his burrow from light and predators. If you have multiple dirt mounds and dirt plugged holes, you probably have at least one gopher. Bubble gum, gassing or flooding can work, but most of my customers prefer to see the gopher caught, proving to them he is gone. MOLE: This blind miniature carnivorous shrew causes damage primarily in lawns, behind/under retaining walls, around paver stones, or anywhere it pleases. Mainly we see his surface tunneling which looks like an animal has swam right under the surface, pushing up soil in a continuous ridge. These ridges commonly run along the edge of a lawn next to a border. Moles do make mounds as well, which means he is working deeper. The mole does not push dirt out of an open surface hole, instead pushing dirt straight up and causing a mound that resembles a volcano. Most of the time, it is only one or two moles causing all the damage. Reducing their food source (worms and grubs) is a great way to deter moles, but if you have a persistent one, nothing works like having it trapped and removed. VOLE: Also known as a field mouse, the vole is basically a cross between a gopher and a mouse. Once a burrowing animal (gopher, mole) has left a burrow, voles will move in and use the network of tunnels to live in and store
Zero Waste Snacks
By Pam Palitz, Sustainable Lafayette
Every weekend in the spring, teams descend upon Lafayette School District fields for their weekly T-ball, baseball and softball games. In the fall, it’s soccer. Most teams practice on the fields on weekdays in the afternoons before dusk and play their games on the weekends. Not surprisingly, all of these aspiring athletes leave something more than footprints on the fields. One of the highlights of practices and games, especially for little ones, is “snack time.” And snacks, unfortunately, beget trash. Garbage cans are not emptied at night or on weekends and many start overflowing. Much that can be recycled simply gets thrown away instead. And worse yet, some snacks just get left on the field. The obvious answer would be to ask teams to take their trash when they leave, using the bags that carried the snacks originally. But let’s take it one step further. How about providing zero-waste snacks? The easiest zero-waste snacks are fruit and veggies. The only real waste comes from orange and banana peels, but they can go straight into the green bin at home. Small apples, or slices from big ones, are zero-waste, and so are berries, grapes, carrots, and celery. These are healthy snacks which are appropriate since the children are participating in sports in part as a fitness activity. But fruit and veggies aren’t “fun,” you say? What about popcorn? If you
www.yourmonthlypaper.com their food. Grains from wild grass make up most of their diet, but voles won’t hesitate to prey upon your vegetables or herbs. A vole hole is about two inches across and almost perfectly round. Often a one inch ring of grass is chewed down perfectly around the hole like a doughnut. There can be dozens of vole holes in a lawn; sometimes the holes are left open, and sometimes they plug the hole with dirt similar to a gopher. Some deterrents from the hardware store and castor oil may help reduce activity. In my experience a process of elimination trapping effort by a pro is more successful. RACCOON: We all know what these masked bandits look like. Particularly in late summer raccoons tear up lawns in search for worms and grubs. When it’s hot and dry the only moisture and food source available is in your lawn. After the raccoon has done their work, your turf will look as though it has been peeled or rolled back like carpet. Keeping worms and grubs under control is the best way to discourage this. An electric wire around the lawn’s perimeter can help too. When all else fails, having the animal removed by a professional trapper is the answer. SKUNKS: Everyone knows that smell. Skunks search for worms and grubs In your lawn, and they wont hesitate to dig after a gopher or mole to eat. Their digging looks like medium sized cone shaped holes three or four inches deep and across. Discourage skunks by eliminating their food sources, grubs, worms, gophers, moles, mice and voles. Be careful if you choose to have a skunk trapped; correct procedure is key to an un-smelly outcome. I hope I have helped identify your problem animal. A combination of deterrents and eliminating the problem animals food source is your start to being critter free. If problem animals persist nothing beats hiring a profession trapper who can deliver the problem critter “in-hand.” After a few days seeing that there’s no new activity proves he’s gone. Most importantly you have peace of mind knowing that you didn’t use poison, which could cause secondary poisoning to wild animals further up the food chain, or worst case your family and pets. To help with your critter removal call Nate at (925) 765-4209. Advertorial pop a bunch at home, it’s cheap, plus incredibly light and easy to carry. The only hang-up is serving it, because you might not want a lot of dirty and germ-laden hands reaching into a bowl. Small Dixie cups could serve as personal scoopers, and then they can be collected and composted. You can “serve” any bulk product the same way...buy a big bag or make your own trail mix from the bulk bins at local stores. There are plenty of online recipes, but the basic idea is nuts, dried fruit, seeds, grains, and sweets. “Adult” trail mix sometimes contains savories, such as ginger or wasabi peas.. And, yes, sometimes sweets are in order to celebrate a birthday, holiday, or a playoff game. If you serve cupcakes, remove the paper wrappers at home so they don’t fly all over the field. Same goes for muffins. Cookies are zero-waste; transport them in a reusable tin. Finally, there’s the issue of drinks. Each young athlete brings a water bottle, right? That’s enough. There is no need for soda cans or juice boxes. At the beginning of the season, the coach and/or team parent can explain the trash issues on the fields and set expectations for snacks. Garbage on the fields and in overflowing trash cans is a serious issue between the sports leagues and the school district. Since the vast majority of the children playing on the teams attend Lafayette public schools, both sides have clear incentive to solve this problem. Zero-waste snacks are a step in the right direction. For more ideas about how to transform your home and your community into a more sustainable place with enhanced quality of life for current and future residents, please visit sustainablelafayette.org.
Lafayette Garden Club
The Lafayette Garden Club is excited to present “What’s New?” with speaker Katherine Greenberg at their April 14 meeting. Katherine is the director of New Plant Introductions at Monrovia Growers. She will be discussing interesting and beautiful new varieties developed for our gardens. Meetings are held at the Lafayette Veteran’s Building from 9:45AM to noon. The Veteran’s Building is located at 3780 Mt. Diablo Blvd. in Lafayette. Visitors are welcome! For questions email Carolyn at cpoetzsch@gmail.com.
editor@yourmonthlypaper.com
Life in the Lafayette Garden
Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 15
Celebrate Spring! By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect #4059
Wow! It has been great to get so much rain. I really see the difference in my yard with all of the water. No doubt now: spring is here! If you look closely in the garden at the trees, shrubs, and perennials, you’ll see the glory of spring quietly emerging. The beginning of spring is one of my favorite times in the garden. I love to observe the new and fresh leaves bud from dead and deciduous branches, and see bright new lime green leaves stand out against older darker green ones. I like to watch how quickly daffodils, jonquils, and paper whites (Narcissus) push their fresh long leaves through the decaying leaves and mulch to bloom bright and cheery colors. The days are warming, the sun is shinning, and like clock-work life in the garden labors to show us the glory of spring. Here are some plants that you might have noticed which are the first to declare the beginning of spring. Cercis occidentalis (tree-Western Redbud) blooms lavender flowers on smooth gray branches before leaves form, Daphne odora (shrub-Winter Daphne) with its intoxicating fragrance fills the air, Hardenbergia
violacea ‘Happy Wanderer’ (vine-Lilac Vine) weaves a lively trail of lilac flowers, Iberis sempervirens ‘Snowflake’ (perennial-Candytuft) trails profuse white flowers over the ground, and one of my favorites, Veronica umbrosa ‘Georgia Blue’ (ground cover-Speedwell) blooms profuse cobalt blue flowers as winter fades out. Other great noteworthy spring blooming trees are Pyrus calleryana ‘Redspire’ (ornamental pear), Magnolia stellata (Star Magnolia), Magnolia soulangiana (Saucer), and Prunus serrulata ‘Shirotae’ (Flowering cherry). Spring is the time to prepare your garden for the coming warmer weather. It’s sort of a garden “spring” cleaning! Items on the list include an irrigation check: clean and adjust sprinkler heads preparing them to be efficient in coverage and not to waste water. Cultivate your soil and mulch for summer heat and emerging weeds; a thick layer of mulch helps with water retention, and weed suppression, and it gives the garden a nice fresh finished look. Plant spring and summer annual and perennial color. Late spring rains help establish new planting. All of these tasks connect us with our gardens and our environment. After a long winter’s nap, we long to connect with nature to rejuvenate, relax, recreate, and renew ourselves. A garden is one of those places that has the gift to touch all of our human senses: sight, smell, touch, sound, and taste. Wandering through a beautifully designed Lafayette garden allows the senses to be stimulated by wonderful visuals, fragrances, textures, sounds, and tastes that nature can offer. So, celebrate spring! A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: After the last couple of years of drought and cutting back on water use, your garden might be ready for a renovation and revitalization! Gardening Quote of the Month: “Gratitude unlocks the fullness of life. It turns what we have into enough and more. It turns denial into acceptance, chaos to order, confusion to clarity. It can turn a meal into a feast, a house into a home, a stranger into a friend. Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow.” ~Melody Beattie 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. Advertorial
Page 16 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
Tree of the Season By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb Japanese Maples
Japanese maples have an elegance and sculptural quality that resembles dance. Careful study of their form, in any season, can call the viewer back to the natural world. In winter, the falling leaves raise the curtain on the form of the trunks and put the dance on center stage. Winter rain intensifies the show by adding a sensuality to the movement of stem and bough, one that beckons to even the unpracticed eye. In spring, certain varieties of Japanese maples send out new leaves so bright a green they appear lit from within. In summer, upright cultivars that are well pruned have spaces between the branches, giving the canopy the appearance of being composed of many floating islands. And in fall, Japanese maples mark the change of season by turning colors ranging from yellow to scarlet, depending on the variety of maple; there are many varieties. Luckily, Japanese maples are relatively easy to grow and relatively tough. In their long evolutionary dance–fossilized maple leaves date back over 60 million years–Japanese maples have developed the genetic information necessary to protect them against most common garden afflictions. They are, however, subject to verticillium wilt, a soil-borne fungal disease that can cause dieback, and sometimes death. There is no known cure for verticillium, but you can decrease the likelihood of your new maple getting the disease if you 1) don’t plant it in ground known to have verticillium, 2) make sure the soil around the tree is well drained so that the roots don’t remain soggy throughout the winter, and 3) protect the tree against environmental stresses by giving it summer water and keeping it well mulched. Maples can grow and remain healthy in gardens with a history of verticillium. If they are not stressed by soils too damp, too dry, or too compacted, some individual maples can thrive even though a near neighbor may die. It depends on the genetics of the individual. If your mature maple shows significant dieback, it may be fighting a case of verticillium. It is not necessarily a death sentence. Some trees
Gardening with Kate By Kathleen Guillaume
It is officially spring. We have been blessed with good rains, and my clivias are blooming. A garden is a place full of memories with plants shared and exchanged with friends and other plants carried along from place to place. When my clivia open their deep orange bells, I think of my grandfather; clivia was one of his favorite blooms. In 1968 he gave me some of the clivias from his garden, reminding me to keep them root bound in their pots. I have divided these over the years and moved them at least to 12 different homes since then. I brought three along to my new home, and they connect me to a man I loved who died so many years ago. When I look at them, I see the smile cross his face when he handed me this wonderful gift of remembrance. The neighborhood is full of birdsong, the days are mild, and it is time to get tomatoes planted. My roses have set buds which will bring joy by midApril. The back garden is filled with fragrance from my neighbor’s large lemon tree which is in bloom. Because it has been so warm, my Rudbeckias Indian Summer are quite confused and are blooming large discs of yellow which I normally don’t see until summer. This is also the time to visit nurseries and pick out those six packs or 4” pots of summer perennials, especially the low water use ones. Lavenders are one of my favorites. They are great planted in rows because then they remind me of the lavender farms of France and the Pacific Northwest. I love to set them against a bank of Rudbeckia. The deep blues and purple are great against banks of sunny yellows and golds. Mimuls or Monkey Flower need a little more moisture, so I plant them near my tomatoes along with basil. Then there are all of the low water use salvias which come in many varieties and colors from low ground covers to 4’ tall back of border types. I also plant an extra culinary sage which I grow for its endless bank of blue blooms...the other I keep for culinary use, never allowing it to bloom
www.yourmonthlypaper.com succeed in fighting off the disease. You can help them recover by pruning out the deadwood and improving the soil environment by mulching and aerating. Though some varieties can withstand full sun, Japanese maples do best in part shade. They do not thrive when exposed to the drying effect of constant wind. If you live on an exposed hillside, it is best to plant them in the lee of a larger tree. Dieback in Japanese maple crowns often is the result of too much sun, too much wind, or the even more deadly combination of the two. Maples need water. Keeping them moist throughout the summer and fall, and into the early winter in dry years, will make them happier and more disease resistant. Pruning, besides benefiting the mental health of the pruner, can enhance the grace of the plant. If your pruner is an artist, removing deadwood and teasing apart the plant’s natural layering opens little windows that reveal and accentuate the tree’s natural form. A well-pruned tree looks as if it hasn’t been pruned. Paradoxically, it looks more natural after pruning than before. Though it is sometimes necessary to lower the crown of a maple, as when it is beginning to block a treasured view, lowering should be done only when necessary, and the lowering should not be so drastic as to involve topping cuts (see the article on topping). Lowering a maple to gain a view is not something that you can do just once. Pruning down the crown stimulates new growth, and maintaining the view or the size reduction, will require yearly pruning. No matter how good the artist, you can’t make a topped maple look as good as a natural tree. Much pruning, and therefore expense, can be avoided by planting the right variety in the right place. When planting a new tree, plant a cultivar that won’t exceed the desired height when it matures. This is almost always preferable to containing a variety that will grow beyond the desired size. It is our hope at Brende & Lamb that the pleasure our clients derive from their well-pruned trees exceeds the considerable pleasure we get from revealing the beauty inherent in their trees. If your trees need a little TLC, please call 510-486-TREE (8733) or email us at bl@brendelamb.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 so that I have plenty for cooking. Once sage blooms the leaves take on a less than desirable flavor. Sages, like lavenders and most salvias, survive for years if pruned correctly, so that $4-$6 4”inch pot provides a long time of joy in your garden. I prefer the 4” size plants because they establish a healthy root structure. When people wait until summer to add summer bloomers, they generally are buying one and two gallon pots which are more root bound and already in bloom which really shortens their bloom cycle. In the spring the soil is very workable and moist enough to give plants in smaller pots a great start. Now that our soil has finally been deep watered with all of the rain we have enjoyed, it is time to get an essential deep layer of mulch to cover the soil and keep the moisture from evaporating off. This will ensure that you won’t need to do much watering until well into summer. Remember when spreading mulch to keep it away from the base of the plants and to leave a few bare areas here and there so our native bees, which are ground dwellers, can get out of their homes to pollinate our garden. In the spring we often see garden pests, aphids, slugs, and others. Please use non-toxic methods to keep them under control. If we had pesticide and fungicide free gardens, they would eventually get into balance. Not only will your garden be safer for your pets, children, and grandchildren, they’ll also be safer for the many beneficial insects whose entire life cycle is based on eating bad bugs. When you use pesticides you eliminate the good along with the bad, deny hummingbirds and other birds the protein they need, and worst of all you endanger bees which are essential to pollinating fruits and vegetables. If you hire a gardening service, be sure to tell the owner that you absolutely do not want pesticides used on your property and only want to use non-toxic natural fertilizers. You can turn to the Master Gardeners in your community either online or at “Our Garden” in Walnut Creek to provide you with information on how to create a toxic free garden. Remember chemical toxins and fertilizers also run off and poison both ground water and streams. Show your garden some love, and you will get it back in spades. Happy gardening.
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Next Generation Gifting Considerations
By George M. Noceti, CRPS® -Wealth Advisor and Paul A. Noceti, Financial Planning Specialist with The Integra Group at Morgan Stanley
Giving financial gifts to children or grandchildren can help reduce your estate taxes. However, if you are concerned about wasteful spending by the recipients, there are several options that allow you to exercise some control over how the is money used.
How Much Can You Give?
Federal law permits unlimited tax-free annual exclusion gifts of up to $14,000 per recipient ($28,000 if married), without the donor having to file a federal gift tax return. If you make a gift to any person in excess of the annual exclusion amount, you will be required to file a federal gift tax return. However, if your gift exceeds the $14,000 or $28,000 minimum, but will not be applied to the lifetime gift exemption – currently $5.43 million per individual ($10.86 million per couple filing joint tax returns) – you will not have to pay any gift tax. The gift will simply reduce the amount of your lifetime exemption amount. Taxes may not be owed in this instance, but you will be required to file a gift tax return. Your generosity and good fortune potentially places a significant amount of money into the hands of children and grandchildren – adult as well as minor – who may be unprepared to manage a windfall. Here are some suggestions that may allay your concerns.
Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 17
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When making gifts to adult children, discuss your feelings with them in advance. Suggest that they put the money to good use, such as paying down debt, starting a college fund for their own children, investing a portion, or donating some or all to a charity of their choice. Avoid handing a check to an adult child who you believe may squander the money. Instead, offer to contribute to big-ticket items, such as a new car or a mortgage down payment, or require them to attend a financial education course to learn about budgeting, savings, credit scores, and other topics which could help them become fiscally responsible adults.
Custodial Accounts, Trusts and 529 Plans
If the gift recipient is a young child, Uniform Transfers to Minors Act (UTMA) or Uniform Gifts to Minors Act (UGMA) custodial accounts may be appropriate choices. With UTMA/UGMAs accounts, the minor owns the funds received as a gift, but the donor may serve as custodian and has complete control of the account until the minor reaches the age of majority (generally 18 or 21 depending on the state), at which point the recipient assumes control. For those desiring some lasting control over the gifted money, a trust may be the better choice. Unlike custodial accounts, money held in a trust is not required to be transferred to the beneficiary at a specific age.1 You choose the timing and distribution schedule, for example a lump sum at age 21, or periodic payments over a set number of years. If you prefer that the money be used to fund longer-term financial goals, offer to fund an individual retirement account or open a 529 college savings plan.2 Under the special five-year election rule, you can make a lump-sum contribution of $70,000 to a 529 plan in the first year of a five-year period (or $140,000 per married couple). Keep in mind that if you choose that option, you’ll have to avoid giving the recipient any additional annual exclusion gifts during the remainder of the five-year period. These are just a few suggestions for making thoughtful, satisfying gifts to children. Contact me for help assessing your overall estate and exploring additional gifting and financial education options.
Contacting Us
For further information on how our advice can better help you plan for retirement, as well as a complimentary Medicare Review, Social Security Review, and 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: Investors should consider many factors before deciding which 529 Plan is appropriate. Some of these factors include: the Plan’s investment options and the historical investment performance of these options, the Plan’s flexibility and features, the reputation and expertise of the Plan’s investment manager, Plan contribution limits and the federal and state tax benefits associated with an investment in the Plan. Some states, for example, offer favorable tax treatment and other benefits to their residents only if they invest in the state’s own Qualified Tuition Program. Investors should determine if their home state offers a 529 Plan that may offer such favorable tax treatment and benefits to residents or beneficiaries of that state that may not be available to investors or beneficiaries of other states. Investors should consult with their tax or legal advisor before investing in any 529 Plan or contact their state tax division for more information. Morgan Stanley does not provide tax and/or legal advice. Individuals should always check with their tax or legal advisor before engaging in any transaction involving 529 Plans, Education Savings Accounts and other tax-advantaged investments. Investments in a 529 Plan are not FDIC-insured, nor are they deposits of or guaranteed by a bank or any other entity, so an individual may lose money. Investors should review a Program Disclosure Statement, which contains more information on investment options, risks factors, fees and expenses and possible tax consequences. Investors should read the Program Disclosure Statement carefully before investing. 1Kiplinger, “Ways to Give Money to Children,” updated January 2015. 2The Wall Street Journal, “Financial Gifts to Adult Children: Strings or No Strings?” January 2, 2015. The author(s) are not employees of Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC (“Morgan Stanley”). The opinions expressed by the authors are solely their own and do not necessarily reflect those of Morgan Stanley. The information and data in the article or publication has been obtained from sources outside of Morgan Stanley and Morgan Stanley makes no representations or guarantees as to the accuracy or completeness of information or data from sources outside of Morgan Stanley. Neither the information provided nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation by Morgan Stanley with respect to the purchase or sale of any security, investment, strategy or product that may Advertorial be mentioned.© 2016 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC.
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Dr. Purdin believes that every creature deserves a second chance. When treating an animal, he projects himself onto the animal. He asks himself, ‘How would I feel?’ “Every creature has a story,” he says. “Look at a flock of 1,000 snow geese; each has a life history. Their life is all they have.” “When you see the relief in a child’s face when she learns that that the injured baby bird she found in her yard will be nurtured back to health and released back in the wild by caring people, it brings a great sense of joy to our work,” says McCormick. “Connecting with wildlife and nature has that impact on humans – it’s in our DNA. When you’ve experienced that deep connection, you become better stewards of the environment and are more likely to make choices in your life that lesson human impacts – whether it’s through consumer choices, voting, or advocating for policies that protect wildlife and their habitats.” All hospital services are free of charge, and because wildlife doesn’t have health insurance, the Lindsay Wildlife Experience and the Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital are maintained largely through donations. For more information about Lindsay and about volunteer opportunities, visit www. wildlife-museum.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.
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Page 18 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
Protect Your Assets – Before it’s too Late… By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.
In our litigious society, a fear of lawsuits is prevalent and understandable. People are always at risk of committing negligent acts and omissions that cause, or allegedly cause, harm to others. Of course, a much bigger problem arises when the person who is alleged to have committed such negligent act or omission has no applicable insurance coverage. Many people, including knowledgeable professionals and business owners, are not well informed about detailed aspects of their property and casualty (P&C) insurance coverage. I encourage you to have detailed discussions with your P&C insurance agent about whether or not you have personal and business policies containing: a) appropriately broad scope of coverage for the areas in which you have risk; b) reasonably high coverage limits; c) optimal deductibles; and d) umbrella coverage under which you cost-effectively boost your limits. The challenge is that even people who have terrific insurance policies have some risk because every insurance policy contains exclusions. Thus, everyone, particularly those who own a small business or a real estate investment property, has gaps in protection. Such people are exposed to unlimited liability for claims, lawsuits, and damages that may arise out of such business or real estate investment venture. If someone files suit and obtains a judgment against the owner of such business or investment property, the owner’s personal and other (unrelated) business assets are vulnerable – available to satisfy the judgment. One can go a long way toward filling these protection gaps by forming one or more business entities, such as a limited liability company (LLC) or corporation. By properly forming, capitalizing, and operating an LLC or corporation in connection with a business or investment property, the owner is legally entitled to limited liability. This means that a potential judgment creditor can only obtain a judgment against the LLC or corporation; not the owner. Consequently, the only assets available to satisfy such potential judgment are those owned by the LLC (i.e. not the owner’s personal or unrelated investment assets). Suppose that someone who prudently owns his business or property in a LLC or corporation is sued and the claim isn’t covered by insurance. What can the owner do? In a hypothetical situation, a client contacts me to inform me that two employees of his small mortgage business had sued his corporation and sued him personally, claiming sexual harassment. The client said these former employees had been “bad apples” and that there was no basis for the lawsuit. Nevertheless, the client is worried about what some jury might be led to believe and asks me if I could help him: i) immediately form a business entity for his apartment building; and ii) transfer substantially all of his assets to a close relative. The client naturally wanted to protect his assets so that they would not be available to these employees if they happened to win their lawsuit and be ordered to pay a large damage award. I would first suggest that he check with his business insurance agent to see if he might have applicable insurance coverage. Unfortunately, most business policies (“General Liability”) exclude or contain very limited coverage for sexual harassment claims; and only special policies - that only a small percentage of business owners purchase (“Employment Practices Liability Insurance”) - include relevant coverage. Next, I would warn that there was a whole body of (complex) law dealing with “fraudulent conveyances” that would render ineffective the transfer of all or most of his assets out of his name. Essentially, these laws prevent people from effectively thwarting known or anticipated creditors from collecting a judgment if such transfer renders the alleged wrongdoer insolvent. The “bottom line” is that it is critical to employ asset protection strategies before a problem arises. One should consult with an insurance professional and/or an attorney in advance of any claims or threatened claims. At that point, it’s possible to create viable protection by taking various asset protection measures. Some of these include: purchasing optimal insurance, forming one or more business entities, creating trusts for the benefit of loved ones containing spendthrift provisions, and sheltering assets, as appropriate, in highly creditor-protected vehicles, such as 401Ks, IRAs, and life insurance. As the old saying goes, if you fail to plan, you are planning to fail! I offer a complimentary Estate Planning Primer and/or a free, introductory meeting. My primary practice areas are Estate Planning; Trust Administration & Probate; Real Estate; and Business I am an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group which is located at 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 125, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com. This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and is not intended nor should it be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain and rely upon specific advice only from their own qualified professional advisors. This communication is not intended or written to be used, for the purpose of: i) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code; or ii) promoting, marketing, or recommending to another party any matters addressed herein. Advertorial
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Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month
Why we Should be Concerned about HPV By Dr. Arash Mohebati, M.D., West Coast Surgical Associates
The term “head and neck cancer” refers to a variety of tumors that occur in the throat, larynx (voice box), nose, sinuses, and mouth. Head and neck cancers account for approximately three percent of all cancers in the United States and are nearly twice as common among men as they are among women. Alcohol and tobacco use (including smokeless tobacco, sometimes called “chewing tobacco” or “snuff”) are historically the two most important causes of head and neck cancers. However, over the past decade we have been learning about the significance of HPV as a cause of head and neck cancer. Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) infection is a well-known cause of cervical cancer in women, and it is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the world according to the National Cancer Institute. The same types of HPV that infect the genital areas can infect the mouth and throat. HPV infections often resolve before they cause any health problems. However, HPV infection can cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers in women; penile cancer in men; anal cancer; cancer of the back of the throat (oropharynx); genital warts; and throat warts in both men and women. About 27,000 new HPV associated cancers are diagnosed each year. More than 12,000 of those cases occur in the oropharyngeal region – usually in the tonsil or the base of the tongue. The incidence of HPV associated head and neck cancer has been rapidly rising since the 1990’s, while tobacco related cancers are declining. This incidence of oral HPV cancer will soon surpass the number of HPV related cervical cancer cases diagnosed per year in the United States. Historically, head and neck cancers occurred in heavy smokers and drinkers and most frequently in the 5th through the 7th decade of life. HPV associated oropharyngeal cancers present in younger individuals, more often in white males, and often in non-smokers. HPV positive cancer often presents at a higher stage with metastatic lymph nodes in the neck, but treatment results in better disease-free survival and longer overall survival. The most widely used treatment regimen for the management of oropharyngeal cancers has been the combination of chemotherapy and radiation. Newer technology has allowed for the surgical resection of such tumors with decreased complications and good outcomes. There are new trials in progress aiming to identify the optimal treatment modality with least amount of toxicity for HPV associated cancers without compromising the outcomes. Based on the national cancer institute guidelines, recommendations for management of HPV associated and non-HPV cancers are similar. At this time, the only preventive method available is vaccination prior to becoming sexually active. The new HPV vaccines -- recommended for both boys and girls age 9 to 12 -- have been shown to protect against cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. No such data exists that this vaccination is effective for oropharyngeal cancers, but research is underway. Animal tests suggest that an HPV vaccine would be preventative, and all approved vaccines are active against HPV stains 16 and 18, the subtypes of the virus that cause more than 95% of head and neck cancers. Community adoption of the HPV vaccine in the United States remains lower than expected. One national survey suggests that only 40% of the girls and 22% of the boys received all three recommended doses of vaccine. HPV vaccine is important because it protects against cancers caused by human papilloma virus infection. HPV is a very common virus; nearly 80 million people—about one in four—are currently infected in the United States. About 14 million people, including teens, become infected with HPV each year. This is a true public health epidemic that is preventable and can be stopped through education and vaccination. Dr. Arash Mohebati is a board certified general surgeon who completed additional fellowship training in head and neck oncologic surgery at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. He practices with West Coast Surgical Associates -- offices in Walnut Creek, San Ramon, and Concord. Dr. Mohebati is scheduling free visual oral cavity screenings on April 15 from 1-5PM in recognition of Head and Neck Cancer Awareness Month – April. Call (925) 933-0984 to schedule your free screening appointment. Advertorial
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New Data on Breast Cancer By Tiffany Svahn, MD
Recently, data was presented that directly affects our treatment of breast cancer patients. In the realm of local therapy, there were two studies out of the Netherlands that have important implications. Both studies were large registry studies rather than randomized trials, so all results must be interpreted with caution, but they both had very interesting findings. The first Danish study looked at outcomes in women treated with breast conservation (BC) versus mastectomy for early stage breast cancer (stages I-III). The data of 37,207 women were analyzed. Interestingly, the 10-year overall survival was higher for women who had BC (76.8%) versus women who were treated with mastectomy (59.7%). Similarly, the 10-year disease-free survival was higher for BC versus mastectomy (83.6% vs 81.5%). In addition, rates for both distant metastatic disease and regional recurrence were higher in mastectomy patients, but there was no difference in local recurrence. All differences were statistically significant. Some experts postulate that perhaps it was the addition of radiation therapy in breast conservation that accounts for the improved outcomes with breast conservation over mastectomy. There has been a recent rise in increased bilateral mastectomies in women with early stage breast cancer who would have likely done just as well with breast conservation. Many women choose to have bilateral mastectomies because they incorrectly believe that it will improve their outcomes. It is important for clinicians to educate patients that choosing bilateral mastectomies does not change the risk of distant metastatic disease and thus overall survival, and this study indicates that perhaps mastectomy may even lead to worse outcomes. The second Danish study looked at margin width and re-excision at the time of lumpectomy. Data from 11,900 women was analyzed, with a median follow-up of 4.9 years. Not surprisingly, women who had a final positive margin had an increased risk of ipsilateral breast tumor recurrence (IBTR) by 2.5-fold. However, there was no difference in IBTR if margins were 0-1 mm vs 2-4 mm vs > 5 mm, supporting the concept of “no tumor on ink” is a negative margin. Eleven percent of the women had re-excision, and of those women, 20% had residual disease at the time of re-excision. Residual disease at the time of re-excision led to a three-fold higher risk of IBTR even if final margins were negative. No difference was seen in overall survival. There were two important studies presented that pertain to systemic treatment of early stage breast cancer. IBIS-II is a randomized trial looking at outcomes of 2,980 postmenopausal women with estrogen receptor-positive ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) who were randomized to receive five years of either tamoxifen (the current standardof-care) or anastrozole (an aromatase inhibitor (AI), widely used for the treatment of invasive breast cancer). Earlier in 2015, the results of NSABP-B35 showed better outcomes for aromatase inhibitors over tamoxifen for DCIS, specifically in women less than 60 years of age. In this IBIS-II trial, with a median followup of 7.2 years, there was a trend toward lower invasive recurrence with AI vs tamoxifen (6.6% vs 7.4%). There was no difference in overall survival, and there was a decrease in both endometrial and ovarian cancers seen with the use of AI. Tamoxifen is known to increase the risk of endometrial cancer, and it appears that AIs may be protective against ovarian cancer. The Create-X trial addressed an important issue in the use of adjuvant capecitabine (Xeloda) chemotherapy in women who had been treated with neoadjuvant chemotherapy and did not achieve a complete pathologic response. This was a phase III randomized trial looking at 910 women with HER2-negative breast cancer, with a median follow-up of two years. All tumors were either node-positive or greater than 5 cm. The use of eight cycles of adjuvant capecitabine chemotherapy led to a 31% decreased risk of recurrence. The disease-free survival was 87.3% vs 80.5%, and the overall survival was 96.2% vs 93.9% (not statistically significant). The study was discontinued early because it met its primary endpoint of disease-free survival. This is the first data we have that supports the use adjuvant chemotherapy in patients who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy and did not achieve a complete pathologic response. This is particularly important for women with triple-negative breast cancer, as they do not have the option of receiving targeted treatment (anti-estrogen therapy for ER+ disease, and trastuzumab for HER2+ disease) that will benefit them in the adjuvant setting. As illustrated in the studies discussed above, the outcomes for women with early stage breast cancer are excellent and continue to improve. Dr. Svahn is a medical oncologist who specializes in treating patients with breast cancer. She practices with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group and sees patients in Pleasant Hill and San Ramon. For more information, call 925-677-5041. Advertorial
Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 19
Bladder Cancer: Another Reason to Stop Smoking
By Richard Long, MD Fifty percent of those diagnosed with bladder cancer smoke tobacco. Many health diseases are associated with smoking: pulmonary disease, kidney cancer, asthma, heart disease, lung cancer, and so many more. If those aren’t enough reasons to quit smoking, let’s add another… bladder cancer.
How does tobacco smoke affect the urinary system?
Our complex systems are interconnected. As you inhale smoke from cigars, pipes, and cigarettes, you may only think of the effect on your mouth and lungs. However, once you inhale the smoke, cancer-causing chemicals contained in tobacco products enter the lungs and are absorbed into the blood stream. Your hard-working kidneys then filter your blood to remove all of the “waste,” such as the carcinogens, which are then deposited into the urine. As the urine sits in your bladder, waiting to be expelled, the carcinogens damage the cellular lining of the bladder, increasing your risk of cancer.
What is the chance of being diagnosed with bladder cancer?
American Cancer Society estimated that in 2015 there would be approximately 74,000 people in the United States that would be diagnosed with bladder cancer. Nearly 50% of those diagnosed will have cancers that have been caused from being a tobacco smoker. Smokers are three times more likely to be diagnosed with bladder cancer than those who don’t smoke. With nearly 16,000 people estimated to have passed away from bladder cancer in 2015, why would you increase your chances? If you smoke, take a step to quit today for a healthier you. Do it for your lungs, kidneys, and your bladder. If you need help quitting, talk with your doctor about medications that can be prescribed to help you, and also take a look at helpful websites like SmokeFree.gov and BeTobaccoFree.gov. Dr. Richard Long is a board-certified urologist with Pacific Urology. He sees patients in Concord, Walnut Creek, and San Ramon. Dr. Long’s areas of interest include Robotic urologic surgery, bladder and prostate cancer, prostate enlargement, female urology, erectile dysfunction, and kidney stones. Dr. Long can be reached at (925) 937-7740 or www.pacific-urology.com. Advertorial
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Page 20 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
Menopause Matters
By Timothy Leach, MD, FACOG, CNMP
Menopause is an obvious marker of ovarian aging. Chronological age is a poor predictor of when menopause occurs, and women vary widely in their menopausal transition. Last month I mentioned that the North American Menopause Society (NAMS) defines menopause as 12 months after the final menstrual period (FNP). In 2011 a multidisciplinary, multinational consensus workshop, “The Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop (STRAW),” divided the menopausal transition into two premenopausal and two post-menopausal time frames. The importance is how these time frames relate to the symptoms patient’s experience and how those symptoms might be managed medically. The Early Pre-Menopause transition’s time frame is variable and defined by the persistent difference of seven days or more in cycle length on consecutive cycles. The Late Pre-Menopause transition typically lasts one to three years and is characterized by cycles interspersed by 60 consecutive days (or longer) of not bleeding. In the Early Pre-Menopause transition, extra eggs can be recruited mid-cycle which can lead to an overproduction of estrogen which may result in breast pain, migraines, and heavy bleeding. These wide fluctuations in hormone levels may also be one of the triggers that lead to hot flashes and night sweats (which can occur during the day). The final menstrual period is always determined by looking backwards 12 months. This is the beginning of an Early Post-Menopause that typically lasts for two to three years. Vasomotor symptoms are most likely occurring by this time if not already starting in late pre-menopause. The end of the Early Post-Menopause is about three to six years after the FNP and is typically when estradiol levels are low and stabilize. The Late Post-Menopause begins five to six years after the FMP and continues for your remaining life span. Further changes in reproductive endocrine function are limited, and somatic aging predominates. This phase can be marked by increasing genitourinary symptoms (burning, dryness, painful intimacy, and bladder infection like symptoms), which may not end, unlike hot flashes, which for most women may only last six to seven years. The Women’s Health Initiative (WHI) was one of the largest U.S. prevention studies including 161,000 menopausal women. It was the first (and probably last) randomized controlled study intended to look at the benefits (reduction in
4-H continued from page 9
year round large animal--only a few months until it goes to auction at fair. It is hard at the end though to say goodbye to the animal.” Courtney Turner is Caitlyn’s 16-year-old sister and a sophomore at College Park High School in Pleasant Hill. When Courtney was younger, she listened to her friend Sarah regale her with tales about the special group in which she was involved. Fascinated by Sarah’s stories, Courtney finally signed up with her sisters for 4-H in fifth grade. “This year, I chose not to raise an animal due to my insanely busy schedule, but in years past I have raised both rabbit and swine,” says Courtney. “Sarah's mom, Beth Manning (current Lamorinda 4-H’s community leader) was in charge of the rabbit project, and in my 2nd year of 4-H, she convinced my mom to let me raise a show rabbit as my first 4-H animal project. In my 4th year, my sisters and I decided to raise a pig, our first large animal. I really enjoyed raising pigs for the two years I participated in the project. My family would visit the farm at least twice a week to feed and clean the barn at which we kept our pig.” Courtney describes a typical week of animal showing at the Fair: “On Sunday, our swine group went to the fairgrounds and laid down all the pens for the pigs. On Monday, we brought our pigs to the fair. Tuesday, we spent the whole afternoon in line to weigh our pigs to make sure they met the required weight (215270). On Saturday at 9am, I showed my pig.” This year, instead of raising a show animal, Courtney will join the large animal barn crew for high school students. “I have multiple friends who are on crew and thoroughly enjoy it. They describe it as a great way to be involved with the fair without the yearlong stress of raising an animal.” 4-H’s enrollment period takes place in late August/early September, and all ages are invited to join. Visit www.ca4h.org for more information.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com hot flashes and genitourinary symptoms) and risk (breast cancer and stroke) of hormone replacement therapy compared to a placebo. Launched in 1991 with the first results released in 2002, the WHI (https://www.whi.org) focused on strategies for preventing heart disease, breast and colorectal cancer, and osteoporotic fractures in postmenopausal women. Since the trial ended in 2005, more than 115,000 WHI participants have continued providing health information that is being used to investigate a variety of key women’s health questions. More then 90,000 of these women are still alive and in active follow-up across all 50 states. In July 2002, one component of the WHI, which studied the use of estrogen (E) + progesterone (P) in a woman who had a uterus, was stopped early because the health risks exceeded the health benefits. The main reason for stopping the E+P study was because of a 26% increase in the risk for breast cancer. In March 2004, a second component of the WHI, which studied estrogen-only therapy in women who no longer had a uterus (prior hysterectomy), was stopped early. This was primarily because of an increased risk for strokes. What women heard around the world for the first time was that this elixir called hormone replacement therapy (HRT) obtained from the fountain of youth was potentially harmful. Overnight the majority of postmenopausal women stopped their HRT cold turkey out of fear that it was harmful. This memory still rings loud and clear when I ask women for their first impression when I say the words, “hormone replacement therapy.” Yes it was true; this was the first time since HRT had been promulgated in Robert A. Wilson MD’s 1968 book Feminine Forever (supported by Wyeth, a drug company making Premarin/Provera that was sold to Pfizer pharmaceuticals in 2009), that it was found that post-menopausal hormones may be hazardous to your health. Ten years has elapsed since the WHI trial was closed, allowing more nuanced conclusions. The current NAMS consensus on HRT use is based on the age of the patient and when in her menopausal transition she started HRT. I won’t give away the ending of the story if I say that HRT should be offered only to those women who are having symptomatic hot flashes or genitourinary changes. NAMS is dedicated to helping clinicians and menopausal patients understand the significant benefits and small but reasonable risks in the women who choose to take HRT. I will delve into these nuances next month, so stay tuned. Visit my website at www.leachobgyn.com for links to resources and our Facebook page: Timothy Leach MD for more information. My office is located at 110 Tampico, Suite 210 in Walnut Creek. Please call us at 925935-6952. Advertorial
Art continued from front page
personal expression on display did the “speaking” for them. Included in the exhibit are two particular highlights. The late artist Nelson Tygart created many representational pieces, often animals or cultural icons like Jack Nickelson as The Joker. His works were exhibited at the Barclay Simpson Art Gallery, held by the De Young Museum, and in corporate and private collections around the country. In addition, Diana Boegel, sister of one the Las Trampas participants and an artist in Celebrated artist Nelson Tygart’s piece titled Turtles her own right (www.dianaboegel.com), exhibited her charming sketches of several members of the Las Trampas family. The public can visit the Art Gallery during hours when the Community Hall is open or contact kmerchant@lastrampas.org to view them. The story of Las Trampas began over 50 years ago when families with children who had developmental disabilities, along with community members, purchased 2.5 acres tucked behind ranch homes on Moraga Blvd. to form a residential school. In the 1970’s, when special needs children were mainstreamed into the public schools, Las Trampas transitioned to offer a Monday-Friday Day Program for ages 22 up as their primary support systems fall away. Las Trampas also manages five group homes and provides Independent and Supported Living Services to individuals able to live in their own apartments. The annual “What’s in Our Hat?” fundraiser will be held at the Lafayette Park Hotel & Spa on Sunday, May 1st from 3-6:30pm. The theme will be “Tropical Heatwave.” A $125 ticket includes a fabulous buffet and premiere wines, an amazing silent auction, and raffle with the Board member Chuck Henry and artist Diana Boegel, sister of one of the artists who did sketches chance to be the lucky winner of…$10,000! of several Las Trampas participants. Tickets are available at www.lastrampas.org.
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In Plastic Surgery, it’s the Little Things that Count By Barbara Persons, MD, Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc.
For most of us, the littlest things can have the biggest impact on our happiness. As a mother of three, nothing makes me happier than a pair of little arms from one of my kids wrapped around my neck. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, nothing is more precious to me than the big hug I get from a patient on whom I have operated after a difficult ordeal (like breast cancer) or performed a cosmetic procedure on that helps them get their ‘groove’ back. I think a lot about the little things as summer approaches and we begin to bare more of our skin. Many people panic about this level of exposure and we begin to focus on the parts of our body and face that feel less than perfect to us. What most people unfamiliar with cosmetic and reconstructive surgery do not know is that there are many little ways that we can address and improve how we look that can have a huge impact on how we feel about ourselves. In many cases, my patients experience the most satisfying results when we take an incremental approach to improvements. For example, using fillers like Radiesse®, Juvéderm®, and Restylane® in strategic spots on the face can create a look of vibrancy and youth that is completely natural, budget-friendly, and results in no down-time. This is also the time of year when many of my patients choose to do more advanced procedures like blepharoplasty (eyelid lifts) and breast augmentation or lifts. While these surgeries do require more healing time, the impact they have is quite remarkable. Here are a few of the procedures that we offer at Persons Plastic Surgery, Lafayette that can help you look and feel ready for summer: Fraxel® Laser is proven laser technology that can help reverse the visible effects of aging, naturally helping you look as young as you feel. Fraxel technology is proven, effective, and non-invasive.
Your Personal Nutritionist
Reasons We Eat When We Are Not Hungry By Linda Michaelis RD, MS
Emotional Eating
We all eat when we are not hungry and often do not realize when it happens. Maybe you graze when you are bored and pass by the bowl of candy or nuts and mindlessly eat them. You may feel sluggish in the afternoon, and food calls your name. While this is OK from time to time, too much eating without thinking can derail your weight loss plan. Here are some typical situations:
You may indulge in a treat to celebrate or eat to soothe yourself because you are upset. I encourage my clients to track the emotional triggers that cause their eating roller coaster that comes out of nowhere, and together we work at understanding why it happens.
Because you are Tired
I easily can tell when my clients eat improperly when they are tired by looking at their food diary because it is full of sweets to pick them up. As I get to know my client, I stress the importance of getting a good night sleep and taking naps. When you are tired it is very difficult to know whether you truly are hungry or not. Sleep loss increases impulsivity and stimulates the reward center of your brain, making you prone to eat foods high in calories, sugar, and fat. The body is driven to eat more after a night of poor sleep to compensate for energy expended being awake.
Because it’s a Special Occasion
If you work in a large office or have a big family, it seems like there is always some type of celebration. Remember that celebrations are about getting people together, and the food is not always incredibly delicious. I love to help my clients devise a food plan to navigate these parties one-by-one as they happen.
Because the Clock says so
Do you pull out your lunch or go to lunch when it is your scheduled time? I teach my clients to listen to their body and not eat lunch until they are hungry. Please use the time to take a walk, and then wait for the hunger to come. Food is always more tasty when you feel hungry.
Because Other People are Eating
This can be a difficult time because you want to feel a part of the gang. I
Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 21 Fraxel Laser is the original fractional laser treatment that works below the skin’s surface to address fine lines and wrinkles, surface scarring, pigmentation (including age spots), and sun damage. Fractionated laser light energy stimulates your skin’s natural collagen, rejuvenating skin cells below the surface to help smooth the creases and pockets that cause wrinkles and scars. Patients can see results after a single Fraxel treatment and will continue to see softer, smoother, and more eventoned skin over the next 3-6 months. There are several types of Fraxel procedures to meet your specific needs. For most Fraxel Laser procedures, there are few side effects and low downtime. As with all procedures, a consultation with our expert staff will help you decide if Fraxel Laser or another laser treatment is right for you. Blepharoplasty is a surgical procedure for saggy eyelids. Eyelid surgery (upper and lower) is a great way to rejuvenate and refresh your appearance. This procedure targets the bulges, bags, and excess skin of the upper and lower eyelids that can make you look tired and droopy-eyed. While saggy eyelids may start as early as our 20’s, eventually, it affects everyone. Happily, no matter what your age, it can be surgically corrected to create a more youthful and vibrant-looking you. At Persons Plastic Surgery, we usually perform upper and lower lid surgery simultaneously. But we can address just upper or lower as needed, or in conjunction with face, neck, or brow lift surgery. What makes eyelid surgery such an excellent ‘quick fix’ procedure is that there is usually only mild discomfort and little downtime. You may see some discoloration, but this will improve after a week or two. And most patients can go back to work in 8 to 10 days. You will look like you, only better. As a Plastic Surgeon, I have a great passion to help my patients look and feel their best. At Persons Plastic Surgery, we take a holistic approach to helping you look and feel happy. We invite you to come in for a consultation. Even a minor procedure can have a major effect on your sense of well-being. Small can be the new big! Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. is located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. To contact me call 925-283-4012 or email drbarb@ personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial ®
encourage people to fill up their plate with some food, move it around on the plate, and throw it away as soon as possible. You always think you are being watched, but this is not true. Grab a beverage for security, and get through the event and feel comfortable when you leave.
Because it is Free or Cheap
Everyone, including myself, loves a deal. But please stop eating just because it is free. If you are hungry at the time and it is healthy food, then it makes sense. When I see people at the store buying day old bakery goods, I cringe and want to tell them to take that money and buy something healthy and yummy.
Because you Cannot say no to Food Pushers
If you are a people pleaser at a friend’s home and find it hard to say no, you have to really look at this. You must say to them kindly, “No thank you,” or “I am not hungry.” If you must take the piece of cake that the host spent hours baking, then take a bite and get rid of it gracefully. Also, tell your neighbor when the she comes in with fresh baked cookies, “I will enjoy them tonight.” Save them for dessert when it fits your food plan.
Because you Suffer from Clean Plate Syndrome
Yes, most of us grew up with orders to clean our plate because there are starving kids in (you name the country). It is unfortunate that we cannot benefit them, but we have to help ourselves by putting less food on our plate. My job is to teach my clients how little food our bodies need when we eat the right combination of foods. I am thrilled to have the pleasure of working with clients that do well in the beginning with weight loss but just cannot keep the motivation going and get sidetracked by life. It is my job to keep them on track, show them the areas that are preventing success, and give them the steps to finally achieve that weight loss goal. Give yourself the gift of allowing yourself to hire a nutritionist to hold your hand and get you to your weight loss goal. Nutritional counseling can be covered by medical insurance -- Aetna, Blue Cross, Health Net, Hill Physicians, Sutter Health, Contra Costa Health, and other insurances. Please refer to www.LindaRD.com for past articles and information about services. Feel free to call me at (925)855-0150 or email Advertorial lifeweight1@yahoo.com.
Page 22 - April 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.
Anne Randolph Physical Therapy Presentation: Fall Prevention April 27 • 11:30AM – 12:30PM • Cedar Room, LSC - Falls
are a threat to your health and independence. Learn how to gain better balance, avoid falls, and remain self-sufficient. Discovering Opera: Previn’s A Streetcar Named Desire April 12 • 1:30PM – 3:00PM • Lafayette Library, Arts & Science Room - Yes, it’s an opera based on the well-known Tennessee Williams play, the play that was described at its 1947 premiere as having the overtones of grand opera. Composer André Previn and librettist Philip Littell rose to the challenge of making it into a real opera, faithfully recreating the play in which a mentally unstable Blanche moves in and lives with her sister Stella and her brutish husband Stanley. At the end her mental collapse is complete, and there is a soaringly lyrical mad scene to go with it. Lecturer Bradford Wade will give a guided tour of Streetcar, with a description of the plot interspersed with musical examples. This lecture is given in conjunction with Opera San Jose’s production of Streetcar, April 16-May 1.
Lamorinda Village: Seniors Taking Charge of the Journey
April 20 • 10:30AM – 12:00PM • Cedar Room, LSC - The Village concept is based on empowering people, giving us options and choices, giving us control over our lives, and allowing us to create how and where we wish to age. Lamorinda Village is a community-based network of people 55 years and older living in Lafayette, Moraga, and Orinda with the goal of helping people remain in their homes and independent. Meet volunteer leaders from Villages forming in the Contra Costa area, and learn how a Village can help you, a friend, or family member.
Computers: Password Management & Backing Up Your Data
May 11 • 10:30AM – 12:00PM • Cedar Room, LSC - A strong password for each and every account is crucial for internet security, but remembering and keeping track of them all can be mind-boggling. Edward will share tips on creating strong passwords and methods of managing them. He will also discuss the importance and various methods of backing up your data to prevent loss. Cooking for One or Two: Fresh and In-Season May 24 • 2:00PM – 3:30PM • Byron Park, 1700 Tice Valley Blvd, Walnut Creek - Seasonal cooking allows you to embrace the bounty of healthy, fresh, and colorful ingredients available at the farmer’s market and grocery store. Chef Mike will discuss what is currently in season and share recipes using those ingredients. As always, there will be plenty of taste-testing! You’ll go home with a set of recipes so you can easily replicate the dishes at home – even if you’re cooking for just one or two. Space is limited; RSVP to Lafayette Senior Services by Tuesday, May 17 at 284-5050. 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 • Elderberry 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 good humor. Our “elder perspective” frequently sounds a lot like wisdom!
www.yourmonthlypaper.com Reservoir Walking Group Tuesdays and Thursdays • 9 AM – 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 • Elderberry 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: 284-5050. 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, 284-5050. Hearing Screening 5/4 • 1:00 - 2:20PM • Alder Room, LSC - Please call Lafayette Senior Services at 284-5050 to make an appointment. Minimum of two sign-ups required in order for hearing screenings to take place. Drop-In Mah Jongg! Every Tuesday • Noon–3PM • Cedar 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 • Elderberry 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: 284-5050.
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Lafayette Today ~ April 2016 - Page 23
Contra Costa County Area Agency on Aging 2016-2020 Four Year Area Plan Summary By Mary Bruns, Lamorinda Senior Transportation
At the March 16, 2016 meeting of the Advisory Council on Aging, the Contra Costa County Area Agency on Aging (CCC AAA) staff presented their 2016-2020 Four Year Area Plan Summary. The following quotes are from that document. The Mission Statement of the CCC AAA is “To provide leadership in addressing issues Senior Mobility Action Council (SMAC), a workgroup of the Advisory Council on Aging (ACOA). that relate to older Californians, to develop community based (SCESP) program will be available. Seniors will be able to use the onesystems of care that provide services which support independence within stop Resource and Employment Centers, have access to staff to assist with California’s interdependent society, and which protect the quality of life resume building, job counseling, and job search. Participants will have a of older adults and persons with functional impairments, and to promote maximum of four years in the program and the overall goal is to secure citizen involvement in the planning and delivery of services…The AAA permanent part or full time unsubsidized employment.” brings together partners and all interested individuals to assess needs, design Reminder: Stop by the Alder Room at the Lafayette Community solutions, track successes, stimulate change, and plan present and future Center to pick up “Way to Go, Contra Costa,” the updated Contra Costa community responses.” Transportation Resource Guide. From the summary we learn, “The mission of the CCC AAA is specified Check the CCTA website: Discussions are underway at the Contra in the Older Americans Act of 1965 and as amended in 1999, as well as the Costa Transportation Authority (CCTA) Expenditure Plan Advisory Older Californians Act (AB 2800). The Older Californians Act is still ‘on the Committee about what should be funded by the proposed new Countywide books’ but funding for all of the programs under the auspices of this act were Sales Tax Measure which would fund transportation programs and projects eliminated by the State in fiscal year 2009-2010. These Acts were established in Contra Costa County. Older adults who no longer drive need accessible with the intent to insure the delivery of adequate levels of social, health, and transportation options. Senior transportation advocates are advocating for nutrition services to older adults with particular attention to targeting those senior transportation and coordinated mobility management to be included who are most vulnerable and in danger of losing their independence.” in this Expenditure Plan. If this measure is placed on the November ballot, “Here in Contra Costa County, the visible point of entry into our you will have the opportunity to vote for additional funding (over and above system for providing these services is through the CCC AAA Information Measure J funding) for transportation programs and projects in Contra Costa and Assistance (I&A) phone service (1-800-510-2020 or 925-229-8434). County – which we anticipate will include funds for senior transportation. The CCC AAA funds services such as: Ombudsman, Friendly Visitors, In-Home Services Registry, Legal Assistance, Adult Day Care, Assisted To place an ad, Transportation (errand and escort), Family Caregiver Support services, Fall share a story, Prevention, Nutrition (Home Delivered Meals and Congregate Meals), and or for Information and Assistance.” through Title III of the Older Americans Act more information about If you or someone you know needs help in any of these areas, inquire at the above number. our papers, The Lamorinda Spirit Van takes older adults to the Congregate Lunch at call 925.405.6397 or the Walnut Creek Senior Center CC Café Tuesday through Friday. If you visit www.yourmonthlypaper.com would like to meet new people, this is a friendly group who would love to have you join them. Make your reservation by noon, one business day ahead of time, by calling 925-280-7310, and let the CC Café know you would like to ride the Lamorinda Spirit. For those needing additional income and having difficulty securing ARCHITECT employment the Senior Community Service Employment Program Title V JOHN ROLF HATTAM - ARCHITECT Specializes in modest budget, new and renovated residences. Over 200 completed projects. Brochures available Lamorinda Senior Transportation for all of our professional services •RESIDENTIAL RENOVATION •NEW An Alliance of Transportation Providers RESIDENCES •CHURCHES •COMMERCIAL •MULTI-FAMILY. For the Volunteer Drivers – Needed, Valued, and Appreciated brochure meeting your need call 510-841-5933. 737 Dwight Way, Berkeley.
C L A S S I F I E D S
We will accommodate your schedule, travels, and vacations. Call one of the programs below to volunteer.
Lamorinda Spirit Van
283-3534
Takes Lamorinda older adults, age 60 and up, to errands, appointments, grocery shopping, special events, and to lunch at the C.C. Café. Wheelchair and walker accessible. WE LOVE TO SAY YES, so call early to make your reservation.
Contra Costa Yellow Cab and DeSoto Company 20% discount for Lamorinda seniors.
Orinda Seniors Around Town
284-1234
402-4506
Volunteer drivers serving Orinda seniors with free rides to appointments and errands.
Mobility Matters Rides for Seniors Information and Referral Line: 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
938-7433
For people with disabilities. (Older adults often have “age-based” disabilities. By describing your disability, you can become eligible for this service – giving you additional transportation options.)
Mobility Matters Information and Referral Line 284-6109
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Page 24 - April 2016 ~ Lafayette Today
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