editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 1
MARCH 2017
THE STORMS OF 1861-1862 TRANSFORMED CURTAIN UP! LIGHT THE LIGHTS : RPE PRESENTS THE MAGIC OF BROADWAY THE SAN RAMON VALLEY By Beverly Lane
One storm after another is sweeping through California this year. But for historians, the storms of 1861 and 1862 were far more impressive and devastating. Some have called them Megastorms. Once farmers recovered after losing so many cattle, they began to focus on grain and hay-growing instead of the grazing which had been dominant for decades. A 43-day storm which began in December of 1861 turned the Central Valley and Southern California into inland seas and killed thousands of people, according to a Scientific American article in 2013. Sixty-six inches of rain fell in Los Angeles that year. The Sierras had snow levels from 10 to 15 feet followed by warm rainfall, sending water into rivers in unprecedented levels. The water rose to 30 feet in some areas, covering the new telegraph poles which stretched from Sacramento to New York. All of Sacramento was entirely under 10 feet of brown water that January. William Brewer, who was surveying California, wrote that in January of 1862: “thousands of farms are entirely under water – cattle starving and drowning. All the roads in the middle of the state are impassable; so all mails are cut off.” One quarter of the state’s 800,000 cattle drowned in the flood. UC Berkeley Professor B. Lynn Ingram wrote, “Downstream of Sacramento, towns and villages throughout the eastern San Francisco Bay Area were struggling
See Storms continued on page 6
Rancho Romero 5th grade Cub Scouts recently completed their Arrow of Light award and have graduated on to Boy Scouts. Back Row: Owan Boynton-Westney, Cole Nettleton, Harry Hayden, Tyler Singer, Bottom Row: Drew Crissman, Max Steele, Alex Castellon
Local Postal Customer
PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA
ECRWSS
By Jody Morgan
Role Players Ensemble Theatre (RPE) presents a one night only opportunity to discover the secrets that have kept audiences endlessly entertained by the best of Broadway’s musicals. On March 18th, Curtain Up! Light the Lights gives patrons the chance to support Danville’s award-winning theater company while enjoying an evening of fine food, wine, and performance. In addition to staging four outstanding plays each
RPE Board L to R Sharon Ritchey, Roz Hirsch, Evelyn Boetes, Marian Bliss, Joyce Michalczyk, Martin Silverman, Eric Fraisher Hayes, seated President Mary Camezon, Not pictured: Sharon Sprecher, Mark Roseman (photo courtesy of Wendy Cooper, RPE)
season, RPE introduces local high school students to the skills required for bringing scripts to life through internships and classroom programs. Master classes for RPE donors and early subscribers as well as scriptin-hand performances open to the public extend the opportunity to learn how plays are put together to adult theater enthusiasts. Founded in 1983 by a group of Danville residents, RPE is a non-profit organization dedicated to producing plays that are both entertaining and enlightening. Now in his seventh season as Artistic Director, Eric Fraisher Hayes is pleased by audience response to thought-provocative material. Although Incident at Vichy did not draw record-breaking crowds, those who attended the 2012 performances continually remark about the powerful impact of that experience. Narrowing the selection of scripts down to the ideal balance for each season is a difficult task. RPE Marketing Director Martin Silverman explains, “Role Players is very fortunate to have Eric as our Artistic Director. He has a deep and loving Volume XVII - Number 3 knowledge of theatre content, perfor3000F Danville Blvd. #117, mance and production, which he uses Alamo, CA 94507 to propose plays that span the breadth Telephone (925) 405-NEWS, 405-6397 of the theatre experience, from lesser Fax (925) 406-0547 known but excellent plays that make Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher audiences think about the tough quesEditor@yourmonthlypaper.com tions in life, to charming and even Sharon Burke ~ Writer raucous comedies, to well-known The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do not necessarily reflect that of Alamo Today. Alamo Today crowd pleasers.” is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising
See RPE cont. on page 6
herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.
PAGE 2 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
URGENT NEED FOR HOST FAMILIES FOR TWO WEEK STAY BY VISITING FRENCH STUDENTS
For the twelfth consecutive year, students from a large high school in the south of France are coming to the Bay Area. The students will arrive on April 1st and depart April 16th. Currently a dozen more students need to be accommodated or they won’t be able to travel with their peers. The teens stay with local families and have a full itinerary of activities during the days and only require your attention in the evenings and weekend. The visit is an ideal opportunity to experience another culture and hopefully consider visiting France in return. Anyone interested in hosting a student (or students!) is welcome to participate. For more information or to find out about past year’s programs, please contact Martine Causse (teacher in charge of the group) at dachary.martine@orange.fr. There are many happy local host families ready to discuss any questions with you. The local contact is Danville parent Kevin Dimler, who can be reached at kevindimler@gmail.com or (925)718-5052.
SAN RAMON VALLEY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY
You are invited to attend the March 21st meeting of the San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society from 10am - noon at the LDS Church located at 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. The program is entitled “The Old Northwest Territories” and will be presented by Pamela Dallas. For more information, please visit http://srvgensoc.org or email SRVGS@SRVGenSoc.org.
APRIL IN PARIS FASHION SHOW LUNCHEON
NEWCOMERS WELCOME COFFEE
Are you new to the area or a long time resident, newly retired, or an empty nester interested in making new friends and participating in various social activities? The Alamo-Danville Newcomers Club is a women’s organization whose purpose is to enrich the lives of all its members and their families in a social manner. Check out all the club has to offer by visiting www.alamodanvillenewcomers.com or email alamodanvillenewcomers@gmail.com.
Mustang SC 2005 Boys Elite Botafogo soccer team placed 3rd in NorCal State Division after winning their State Cup Final in Modesto on February 12. Top row left to right: Coach Jairo Camargo, Stefan Zanatti, Dane Baker, Colin O'Byrne, Beau Lopez, Josip Batkovic, Joey Sikiric, Dominik Wszolek. Bottom row, left to right: Conor Lindberg, Jerome Chung, Luke Cottrill, Thomas Ivanov, Ryan Teng, Eli Volk, and Jack Stewart.
Friends of Blackhawk Museum is sponsoring the April in Paris Fashion Show Luncheon at the museum in Blackhawk Plaza Circle. This is a fundraising event to benefit the Children’s Education and Transportation Fund to enable Bay Area schoolchildren to visit the Blackhawk Museum’s International Automotive Treasures and “Spirit of the Old West” exhibitions. The Fashion Show Luncheon will take place on April 12 at 11AM. The cost is $75 per person.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
BOULEVARD VIEW
By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor
A friend sent me a short story titled “The Moral of the Porcupine.” The story goes: “It was the coldest winter ever. Many animals died because of the cold. The porcupines, realizing the situation, decided to group together to keep warm. This way they covered and protected themselves; but the quills of each one wounded their closest companions. After a while, they decided to distance themselves one from the other and they began to die, alone and frozen. So they had to make a choice: either accept the quills of their companions or disappear from the Earth. Wisely, they decided to go back to being together. They learned to live with the little wounds caused by the close relationship with their companions in order to receive the heat that came from the others. This way they were able to survive.” The best relationships are not the ones that bring together perfect people, but those that allow each individual to learn and to live with the imperfections and differences of others and to admire the other person’s good qualities. In our current times, people are so quick to call names, to flame over social media, to hide behind invisible walls, and to spout negativity. They break-up over politics or issues they have little control over. They “report” and “tattle” and have tantrums when things don’t go their way. They reach out to dozens, hundreds, thousands, or millions of people at once with the tip-tap typing on a keyboard to get people on their side or to announce to them to the world the wrongs done. A sense of community used to be fostered with more socializing with our neighbors. We talked face-to-face rather than via a screen. We had block parties and progressive dinners. Growing up our neighbors were extensions of our family. We climbed over the fence or even built a gate in a fence to easily visit our neighbors or borrow an egg or a cup of milk. We lived at our home as well as our friends homes. Our friends parents were our bonus parents. We baked delicious treats together, listened to records, climbed trees, and played kick-the-can and hide-andseek. We rode our tandem bike around the block and had many days of swimming
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 3
and lounging around the pool. We didn’t have cell phones where we could be spied on and checked on at any moment. We didn’t need micromanagement. We went home to dinner when the streetlights went on. We didn’t rush from scheduled activity to scheduled activity, grabbing dinner on the run. We had a to-do list of household chores, and we (sometimes begrudgingly) got things done for the common good. It wasn’t everyone lost in their own little world, tuned out from everyone else. We didn’t isolate ourselves but rather spent time bonding together. Look around you the next time you take a ride on BART, a bus, or a plane. A large percentage of the people are focused on their electronic devices and not engaging with each other. Not only do they miss the human interaction but they miss what is going on around them. They tune out. Rather than talk to the stranger sitting next to them, they sit content in their own little bubble. There’s got to be a better way to exist rather than isolating ourselves, I think. Frank Somerville from KTVU posted on his Facebook feed the following story: “I was at my parent’s house in Berkeley this morning when the doorbell rang. I went to answer it, and it was their neighbor holding a piece of pie. He said, ‘We just went to Fat Apple’s restaurant and brought your dad back a piece of pie.’ I wasn’t in the best mood because I’m sick of the rain. But as soon as he told me about the pie, I got a big smile. It was just a small gesture, but it totally changed my mood. I kept thinking how nice it was for him to do that. That’s what neighbors do. That’s what builds community. It’s amazing how small acts of kindness can change your whole outlook. Bring on the rain. I’m ready.” I sit and reflect, “If we can’t get along with our families, neighbors, towns, etc. how can we expect to get a long as a nation and world?” I’m ready to expand my social interactions and will be implementing a monthly and then hopefully weekly dinner inspired by an article titled, “Friday Night Meatballs.” Perhaps there are some ideas for you to try too (www. seriouseats.com/2014/08/simpler-entertaining-friday-night-dinners-end-loneliness-how-to-build-community-after-having-kids.html). We can all help build better neighborhoods and communities. Let’s get going!
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 4 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
TREATS FOR THE TROOPS
Alamo and Danville residents braved strong winds and rain when they came out in support of our servicemen and women last month. Service group Delta Nu Psi has collected and sent“gourmet junk food” to servicemen and women in Afghanistan. With your help the group has sent 36,116 pounds of food. The service personal really love Girl Scout cookies and energy bars as neither crumbles during the four week trip to Afghanistan. Rice Krispies Bars, freshly ground coffee, and smoked salmon are also high on the list of favorites. For the next collection dates and more information, visit www.deltanupsi. org. Money for postage is also always appreciated. Please help Delta Nu Psi provide American men and women in the War Zone with a touch of home.
SONS IN RETIREMENT SAN RAMON VALLEY
Are you looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining Sons in Retirement (SIR) San Ramon Valley Branch 128. The group has monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. Additionally, members have lots of fun participating in a variety of activities such as golf, tennis, bowling, bocce ball, movies, bridge, reading, computers, and much more. Many other activities such as travel, dine outs, excursions, baseball games, and holiday parties include spouses, friends, and guests. The group’s next luncheon will be held on Wednesday, March 15 at 11AM. The guest speaker will be Ron Wetter, a health industry expert from Kaiser Permanente. Given the new government agenda to dismantle the Affordable Care Act, SIR anticipate Mr. Wetter’s presentation and Q/A will be most interesting. Your $25 cost includes luncheon, guest speaker, and a great opportunity to socialize with at least 150 other retirees from the San Ramon Valley. To reserve a space, please email by Thursday, March 9th to info@ SIR128.com. Meetings are now held at The Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge, San Ramon. For more information about this retirement branch and activities, please visit www.SIR128.com.
COMMUNITY MEETINGS AND EVENTS
AIA - ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION - PLEASE VISIT WWW.ALAMOCA.ORG FOR UPCOMING MEETINGS - CREEKSIDE COMMUNITY CHURCH -1350 DANVILLE BLVD. ALAMO MAC (MUNICIPAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE) - FIRST TUESDAY OF EACH MONTH 6PM - ALAMO WOMEN’S CLUB P2B - POLICE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE - FIRST MONDAY OF EACH MONTH, 5PM - MEETS AT SHERIFF SUBSTATION, 150 ALAMO PLAZA P5 - ROUND HILL POLICE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE SECOND WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH, 7PM - MEETS AT ROUND HILL COUNTRY CLUB - LOWER LEVEL MEETING ROOM CERT CLASSES - COMMUNITY EMERGENCY RESPONSE TEAM - VISIT WWW.FIREDEPARTMENT.ORG/COMMUNITY_OUTREACH/ CERT/UPCOMING_CLASSES.ASP 8
Lost Dog!
$50 REWARD
If you find her and your name is drawn!
Alamo Zoe is Missing
Alamo Zoe has become lost in this paper... Search through Alamo Today and see if you can find her! She is very small, so you will have to look hard if you want to find her.
To be eligible send a letter telling us where you found her, along with your name and address, to: Lost Dog! ~ Alamo Today 3000F Danville Blvd #117 • Alamo, CA 94507
Chris Gouveia is our winner!
DIABLO CHORAL ARTISTS SHOW
Diablo Choral Artists, “the Diablo Valley’s own chamber chorus,” will present a program in March of hidden treasures from 19th century central Europe. “Intende Voci Orationis” by Franz Schubert will feature tenor Chris Vettel, “Three Motets” for a cappella chorus by Anton Bruckner, and “Mass in D Major” by Antonin Dvořák. The beautiful Dvořák Mass was originally intended for organ, but is usually performed with full orchestra. The original organ score having been lost for about 80 years, a few years after it was written, was rediscovered and published in 1970. Diablo Choral Artists’ own magnificent John R.S. Walko will perform it on the organ with the chorus. Diablo Choral Artists has evolved from Voices of Musica Sacra, a beloved fixture of the Contra Costa music scene for 25 years, performing significant works of sacred and secular choral music. It consists of 40 singers, who enjoy sharing the harmony and performing music of artistic excellence. Performance dates are Friday, March 17, 8PM at Walnut Creek United Methodist Church, 1543 Sunnyvale Ave., Walnut Creek; and Sunday, March 19, 3PM, St. Andrew’s Presbyterian Church, 1601 Mary Dr,, in Pleasant Hill. There will be a drawing for a gift basket at both concerts, and a reception will follow the Sunday performance. Tickets are available at the door or in advance through the Brown Paper Tickets link at www.dcachorus.org.
DANVILLE-ALAMO GARDEN CLUB
The Danville-Alamo Garden Club (DAGC) meets on the 2nd Thursday of the months between September and June starting at 9:15AM at the Alamo Women’s Club, 1401 Danville Blvd, Alamo. At the March 9th meeting, Rose Loveall of the Morningsun Herb Farm in Vacaville will speak about herbs, their variety, and uses. They also sell drought and deer resistant perennials, seasonal vegetable starts, and a large selection of succulents. There will be an opportunity to purchase plants at the meeting. If you have any questions, contact Susan at membershipvp@dagc.us or visit www.dagc.us.
WHAT’S UP?
By Jim Scala MT. DIABLO ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY (MDAS)
March 28, monthly meeting. At 7:15PM, in the Lindsey Wildlife Museum Auditorium, is a talk By Dr. Nicholas Duncan on Solar Flares. These flares are not only visually spectacular, but they are very important to us earthlings. They occur when the sun erupts and sends particles into space. We experience them as radio static, and the radiation they produce is critical to astronauts. This illustrated talk will provide new insight and respect for our sun. Mt. Diablo on April 1. Though your evening under the stars begins with a brief talk at 7PM, arrive before 6PM at the summit parking where members will help you park. You’re in for an evening of looking though member telescopes and the observatory telescope. Besides the Moon, there are two planets in the western sky. Mercury, the closest planet to our sun, will be low in the western sky. Most people, even some NEW YEAR astronomers, never see Mercury since it’s so close to • CARPET the sun that it’s seldom seen against a dark sky and NEW FLOORS! must be studied during the day from observatories. In • HARDWOOD contrast, you will be able to see it with your naked eye • CARPET RUGS and through telescopes. It is a very unusual opportunity. CUSTOM RUGS Though Mars has moved far from earth, through a • HARDWOOD telescope, it will show its disk and, in steady seeing on • RUGS LINOLEUM Mt. Diablo with high magnification, you might glimpse TILE its polar cap. You’re bound to have some conversation • LINOLEUM about Martian life while driving home. The almost quarter Moon will be spectacular, and Family Owned Business you will be able to see craters up close through the Since 1989 members’ telescopes. Deep sky objects include several star clusters and 3344 Mt. Diablo Blvd. Lafayette, CA galaxies. You’re bound to have a great evening for the 925.284.4440 nominal automobile entry fee to the state park. To learn more about MDAS visit www.mdas.net. www.LamorindaFloors.com License# 708486 Contact me with questions at jscala2@comcast.net.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 5
The Market is HOT in Alamo for 2017 Brad Gothberg Utilizes Extensive International Marketing for his Luxury Alamo Properties
LuxuryAlamoProperties.com
e T o th RKE t w Ne O MA
ing m CoSoon
g tin Lis O w Ne AM
AL
AM AL
1451 Vine Lane - Alamo
150 Las Quebradas, Alamo
Loaded with Upgrades! 4 or 5 Bedrooms, large bonus room, office, 4 full and 2 half bathrooms. Master and 2 secondary bedrooms on 1st floor. Approx. 5,500 sq.ft. on approx. a half acre lot. Built in 2005 by Appion Construction. 14ft. ceilings, venetian plastered walls, gorgeous pool and built-in BBQ. This home is a must see!
Asking price for two separate parcels House includes 6 bedrooms, 3.5 Bathrooms, +/4955 sq.ft. on a +/- .42 acre lot with a 3 car garage. Incredible pool and backyard, located on a private, end of street location near Roundhill CC Lot: Flat .54 acres! Currently has a tennis court and large storage garage on it. For a private showing, call Brad today at 925-998-5151
Asking price $3,195,000
$2,695,000
2830 Litina Ct. - Westside Alamo
Call for Price
Completely remodeled property. 4 Bedrooms, 3 full baths, 2594 sq.ft., .56 flat acre lot with pool. Move in condition. Great room with hardwood floors, and vaulted ceiling. End of court location, large deck, perfect for entertaining, one secondary bedroom has its own full bathroom, newer windows throughout. This home will go FAST! For a private showing, call Bard: 925-998-5151
If you or someone you know is looking to buy or sell their home,
Call Brad today at 925-998-5151
BradGothberg.com
With over 30 years experience and the most extensive list of inventory in the San Ramon Valley Brad Gothberg ¦ J.Rockcliff Realtors ¦ CAL DRE# 00964026 ¦ 925-998-5151 ¦ BGothberg@Rockcliff.com
BLACKHAWK REPUBLICAN WOMEN PRESENT PATRICK DOWNEY
The Blackhawk Republican Women invite you to an evening with Patrick Downey, Professor of Philosophy, St. Mary’s College, speaking on The Philosophical and Academic Sources of Identity Politics on Thursday, March 9 at the Blackhawk Country Club, Grille Room. Everyone is welcome, but no denim is allowed per Club policy. Check-in and a social with hors d’oeuvres and no-host bar will begin at 5:30PM followed by the speaker at 6PM . The cost is $25. Downey is a Republican college professor and one who is uniquely qualified to address the hot button topic of “identity politics.” Professor Downey has taught philosophy at Saint Mary’s College for the last 23 years, specializing in ethics, political philosophy, and foundational theology. He received his PhD in Theology from Boston College, his Master of Theological Studies Chirpy Wine Pourer! from Harvard University, and his B.A. in Philosophy from Pitzer College (one of the Claremont Colleges). His published books include Serious Comedy: The Philosophical and Theological Significance of Tragic and It Really Chirps! Comic Writing in the Western Tradition and Desperately Wicked: Philosophy, Christianity and the Human Heart. ♫ ♫ Professor Downey will be available to autograph purchased copies of Desperately Wicked. Please make your reservations by e-mailing or calling Jane Parish at janeparish@sbcglobal.net or (925) 216-6663, then mailing a check made payable to “Blackhawk Republican Women” to her at 366 ♫ Jacaranda Drive, Danville 94506-2125, to arrive by Tuesday, March 7th.
SRVRWF PRESENTS LOIS HAIGHT
The San Ramon Valley Republican Women Federated (SRVRWF) proudly presents the Honorable Judge Lois Haight at their luncheon meeting on Tuesday, March 28th at 11:30AM. Lois Haight is an accomplished jurist who has served the U.S. as a Juvenile Court Justice for over 20 years. She has been a fierce advocate for children in her work in family court. Judge Haight received her B.A. degree at UC Davis. At Hastings College of Law she received her J.D./LL.B and was the Moot Court Competition winner. She was awarded the prestigious “California Jurist of the Year” by the Chief Justice/Advisory Council and “Lifetime Achievement Award” by Berkeley Law. These are just a few of her many awards for her outstanding work on the Bench. She is on the Continuing Legal Education Faculty for Harvard University, Stanford University, MIT, Princeton University, and Hastings College of the Law to name a few. She has many experiences to relay, among those are working closely with President Reagan when her husband, John Harrington, was appointed Secretary of Energy. Come and experience the warm personality and engaging style of this extraordinary woman! The meeting will be held at the Crow Canyon Country Club, located at 711 Silver Lake Drive in Danville. A social mixer begins at 11:30AM followed by lunch and the program at noon. The cost is $30 per person. Family, friends, and students are cordially invited. Reservations can be made online at www.srvrwf.org or by calling 925-820-0774.
♫
Chirpy novelty wine stopper and pourer fits both corked and screw top wine bottles. This drip free wine pourer creates smiles.
Incredibly Entertaining! Colors ............................. 24.95 Blk/Chrome..................... 25.95
FREE Gift Wrap
Walnut Creek
Danville
PAGE 6 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
RPE CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
Praise from the press and multiple award nominations every year bring the best of Bay Area actors to RPE auditions. In her February 9 review of The Piano Lesson for The Independent, Susan Steinberg applauds the entire company: “Hats off to Eric Fraisher Hayes for mounting this powerful production and showcasing such a brilliant acting ensemble to Valley theatergoers. Plaudits to Costume Designer Lisa Danz, Rob Evans, whose sound design truly shakes the rafters, and multi-talented Kimberly Ridgeway, the Production Manager.” Named a Theatre Bay Area Recommended Production – a distinction reserved for plays achieving or surpassing a set ranking threshold – The Piano Lesson closed on February 19th. Curtain Up! Light the Lights is now in rehearsal. Gary DeAtley, past president of the RPE Board Curtain Up! Light the Lights in rehearsal. L to R Music Arranger Ed Goldfarb, vocalist Robert Brewer, Music (the Eugene O’Neill Foundation Tao House and the Director Sharon Sprecher, and vocalist Charles Woodson Parker (photo by Martin J. Silverman) Museum of the San Ramon Valley) is delighted to be sharing his life-long study of Broadway musicals with RPE patrons. Eric notes, “Curtain Up! Light the Lights is Gary’s baby, born of his incredible love for the Broadway musical. He knows the music and the stories, and the stories behind the music and stories. Audiences will be thrilled by the entertainment and become covertly educated over the course of the evening.” DeAtley, who narrates the book he authored, writes, “My favorite stories are those that involve the creation of an iconic musical theatre moment or song, or a scene that was not part of the original plan for the show, but instead my favorites came about during rehearsals and the creative collaboration of the director, lyricist, and composer. The fascinating story of “Send in the Clowns” from A Little Night Music comes to mind as does the genius behind the creation of the, now ubiquitous, ‘conditional love song.’ The genesis of both, along with many others, will be part of our show.” Theater historians recognize Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1943 hit Oklahoma! as the production that ushered in the Golden Age of Broadway. In his essay, “The Dramatic Function of Songs in Musical Theater,” Dr. Larry A Brown comments: “Previously lyricists and composers wrote songs, but now they became dramatists, using songs to develop character and advance the plot.” In Secret Life of the American Musical: How Broadway Shows Are Built, Jack Viertel says, “Oklahoma! joined subject to form in a genuinely new way and created a template that continued to work for generations.” But even with a guide to how songs should be used to advance the plot, musicals need an indefinable quality to generate the magic theatergoers expect. Viertel insists, “Musicals tap into an emotion center that creates profound feelings of ecstasy, sadness, heroism, nobility, or simple giddiness.” You don’t have to do exhaustive research to discover why opening numbers are often written last if you come to Curtain Up! But you will understand by the end of the evening what Rodgers meant when he said (as quoted by Scott McMillan in The Musical as Drama): “When a show works perfectly, it’s because all the individual parts complement each other and fit together. No single element overshadows any other … That’s what made Oklahoma! work … It was a work created by many that gave the impression of having been created by one.” Many of the vocalists, including RPE Musical Director Charles Woodson Parker, have worked closely together on RPE productions. Ed Golfarb, Musical Arranger for Curtain Up! spent 10 years as Music Director for San Francisco’s longest running musical revue, Beach Blanket Babylon. A few of his other projects include music for Pokémon games, TV series and movies, and award-winning PBS productions. Asked about his reaction to the initial rehearsal, DeAtley reports, “I am told by others in the audience that my eyes lit up, and that an inexorable grin spread across my face.” On March 18th, the evening of entertainment begins at 6PM at the Danville Town Meeting Hall with hearty hot and cold appetizers making a delectable meal accompanied by fine wine and a wonderful silent auction. At 8PM, the curtain rises at the Village Theatre next door. Tickets are available at www. roleplayersensemble.com and villagetheatreshows.com. $75 of the $110 price is tax-deductible. Most theater companies would be satisfied with staging superb performances as their sole offering But RPE takes the educational part of its mission seriously. “RPE offers internships to any interested high school student,” explains Eric Fraisher Hayes. “The opportunity is available year round and can be in conjunction with any of our productions. Internships can be in acting, directing, stage management, and design work (lighting, costume, props, sound, set design).” For the most complete experience, Eric suggests students begin their internships about two months prior to opening night for a play. For more information and to apply, contact RPE Stage Manager Kimberly Ridgeway at kimberly.ridgeway@yahoo.com.
See RPE continued on page 10
STORMS CONTINUED FROM FRONT PAGE
with catastrophes of their own. Twenty miles northeast of San Francisco, four feet of water covered the entire town of Napa; to the east, the small town of Rio Vista on the Sacramento River was under six feet of water. “The entire population of Alamo, at the foot of Mt. Diablo 50 miles east of San Francisco, was forced to flee rising flood waters. People abandoned their homes in the middle of the night. Some found refuge, others drowned. The San Ramon Valley was one sheet of water from hill to hill as far as the eye could see. The destructive force of the floods was awesome: houses, otherwise intact and complete with their contents, were carried away in the rapids; horses, cattle, and barns were swept downstream for miles.” A Contra Costa Gazette article in December 3, 1861, stated that in Alamo, “it came suddenly and without any warning at about three in the morning. Many of the people fled as fast as possible and took refuge in the Academy and Wolfe’s brick store. The barn and stable of Hoffman and White washed off with 15 tons of hay (and) a fine buggy…The horses were saved.” August Hemme lost a large barn, a fine carriage, and some outbuildings and fences. And George Engelmayer had 1,500 sacks of wheat destroyed.
In one of his farm diaries, San Ramon’s George McCamley wrote (January 2, 1862): “rained all day and all night. Creek very high, the whole county flooded.” The Gazette stated that “The bridges have been swept away or rendered impassable from one end of the county to the other,” which included the bridge over San Ramon Creek south of McCamley’s property. What a mess it was. California agricultural historians pointed out that these floods marked a transformation from the state’s Age of Grazing to the Age of Grains since so many cattle were lost. The County’s wheat and hay production in the next decades was tremendous, with much of the local firm, flavorful grain sent to the Liverpool Corn Exchange on ships out of Martinez. Local hay was a staple crop sold for horse consumption in San Francisco liveries and for Presidio cavalry and draft horses. Our winter season is still not over, and the rainfall is impressive. At 35 inches, Danville currently has 10 inches more than its normal average. Let’s hope the remaining valley barns stay in place. Sources: William H. Brewer, “Up and Down California in 1860-1864, 1966; B. Lynn Ingram “California Megaflood: Lessons from a Forgotten Disaster” n Scientific American, Jan. 1, 2013; Ralph Cozine, “Agriculture: For a Century the Business of the Valley”; John and Tena Gallagher research; George McCamley’s farm diary for 1862.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
QUALIFIED APPLIC ANTS NEEDED FOR CIVIL GR AND JURY AND PENSION BOARD
By Supervisor Candace Andersen
Have you ever wanted to help local government become more effective? Consider applying to be a Civil Grand Juror or a County Pension Board member. Dedicated community volunteers are needed to serve on these two very active and rewarding government bodies. The Superior Court is accepting applications for Civil Grand Jury service for the 2017-2018 term through the end of March. The Grand Jury is made up of 19 members tasked with investigating and reporting on the operations of local government. The Grand Jury’s fact-finding efforts result in written reports which contain specific recommendations aimed at identifying problems and offering recommendations for improving government operations and enhancing responsiveness. In this way, the Grand Jury acts as a representative of county residents in promoting government accountability. Every effort is made to ensure that the Grand Jury reflects the makeup of the residents of the county. Grand Jurors are agents of change in their communities. They come from all walks of life. They bring with them a broad range of interests, talents and life experiences, but they share a dedication to democratic ideals and a willingness to devote their time and energy to matters of civic importance. Civil Grand Jurors are appointed by the Superior Court to serve a one-year term, from July 1st through June 30th. Individuals may be recommended by the Judges of the Superior Court or may volunteer to serve. Each applicant is interviewed by a group of Superior Court Judges. Those applicants who are deemed qualified are placed in a pool, and 19 are randomly selected as Grand Jurors. Some individuals are selected as alternates, who may be sworn-in during the term if a vacancy occurs. All county citizens have the authority to call the jury’s attention to issues within their governmental agencies that they think should be reviewed. Individuals selected for service will be expected to be available during the last two weeks of June to meet with outgoing jurors, tour county facilities, meet with department heads, become familiar with their colleagues, learn about juror responsibilities and procedures, and select committees on which they will serve. A person qualified to be a grand juror must be a United States citizen, 18 years of age or older, a resident of Contra Costa County for at least one year prior to selection, and they must possess sufficient knowledge of the English language to communicate both orally and in writing. Jurors cannot currently hold any elected position within the county. No particular background, training, or experience is necessary to be a grand juror. In fact, it is the diversity of its members that is one of the grand jury’s greatest strengths. Applicants should have reliable transportation to Martinez and must be prepared to devote at least 20 hours per week to Grand Jury service. Citizens who work should apply only if they can be released from their jobs to perform the jury duties. Those selected will be fingerprinted before the selection drawing. Jurors receive a stipend for attending full jury and committee meetings and are reimbursed 53.5 cents per mile for allowable jury travel. Parking permits may be provided to park in the City of Martinez while performing Grand Jury duties. Serving on a Grand Jury is both an interesting and gratifying way to give back to our community, and it helps improve local government. Persons interested in applying may contact the Office of the Civil Grand Jury at (925) 957-5638 or visit www.cc-courts.org for additional information regarding service on the Civil Grand Jury and to obtain an application. Applications are also available in my office. The deadline to apply is Friday, March 24, 2017. The Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors is seeking individuals with a sound business background, experience in pension fund investment or administration, or in equity investments or banking to appoint to the Contra Costa County Employees’ Retirement Association Board of Trustees. To be considered, candidates must be County residents, must not be Retirement System members or retirees, and may not market any investment, consulting, or related service to the Contra Costa County Retirement Board or any other 1937 Act Retirement Board. Regular meetings of the Retirement Board are held the second and fourth Wednesdays of each month beginning at 9AM and sometimes extending into the afternoon. There may also be additional meetings on special topics that arise from time to time. Members of the Retirement Board receive $100 per meeting up to a monthly maximum of $500 plus reimbursement for actual and necessary expenses. The County is seeking to fill two regular seats and one alternate seat.
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 7
Thinking of Selling your Home?
Name and Negotiate the Commission! Experience you can count on since 1990
“Thank you so much. I have thought about how wonderful of a realtor you are. I put some reviews on Yelp and Zillow for you. If you ever need someone as a reference for any prospective listing, please feel free to use us. You give realtors a good name. You are one of the most honest people we have met and truly appreciate you helping us sell our home in Alamo.” ~ S. Swirnow
925-765-3179
edramos1217@yahoo.com www.EdRamosRealEstate.com Excel Realty & Mortgage Ed Ramos, Real Estate Broker The appointments will be for full three-year terms beginning July 1, 2017, and ending June 30, 2020. Application forms can be obtained from the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by calling (925) 335-1900 or by visiting the County website at www.co.contra-costa.ca.us. Applications should be returned to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, Room 106, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez, CA 94553, no later than 5PM on Friday, April 7, 2017. Applicants should plan to be available for public interviews on Monday, May 8, 2017. Further information about the Retirement Board can be obtained by calling CCCERA CEO Gail Strohl at (925) 521-3960 or by visiting the website www.cccera.org. 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.
MARK YOUR CALENDARS FOR EGG HUNT AND FAMILY FUN DAY
The Rotary Club of Alamo will hold their Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Family Fun Day on Saturday, April 15th at Livorna Park. The event will begin at 9AM and end at 11AM. In addition to the Egg Hunt and a visit by the Easter Bunny -- where parents will have an opportunity to take photos -- there will also be music, children’s games, balloon artists, face painting provided by the Monte Vista High School Interact Club (sponsored by the Rotary Club of Alamo), and other fun activities. Coffee, donuts, chocolate milk and water will be available for sale. The Egg Hunt will take place at 10AM sharp. There will be three age groups for the Egg Hunt: children three years of age and under, children ages four to seven, and children ages eight to ten. Children should bring their own baskets for the egg hunt. Parents should allow ample time for their children to be on time to participate as eggs are gathered quickly! The Rotary Club of Alamo was founded on May 7, 1971 and has 50 members. The Club meets every Wednesday at Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Round Hill Road, Alamo, at 12:15PM.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 8 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
RANCHO ROMERO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
By Skye Larsh-Faraghan, Principal
Author Mary Ehrenworth noted,“There has never been a more important time to teach young people to suspend judgment, weigh evidence, consider multiple perspectives, and speak up with wisdom and grace on behalf of themselves and others.” San Ramon Valley Unified School District celebrates diversity by fostering a deep and pervasive understanding of culture. In February students across the district studied important people, events and stories related to African American History. Every child at Rancho contributed to a visible learning wall in celebration of A People’s Journey, A Nation’s Story. African American history reflects a determined spirit of perseverance and cultural pride in its struggle to equally share in the opportunities of action founded upon the principles of freedom and liberty for all people - SRVUSD Board Resolution. This month students will study women’s contributions to history, culture, and society by honoring trailblazing women from the past and present. Women of every race and ethnic background have contributed and continue to contribute to our country’s triumphs and accomplishments in countless ways - SRVUSD Board Resolution. On March 3, every adult in the district had the opportunity to engage in professional development in order to deepen our own knowledge, pedagogical skills and reflection. Over 100 classified and certificated employees will offer workshops that support our work with children. We began our day with a history lesson...“Our district is very fortunate to have civil rights hero Terrence Roberts kick-off our day at 8AM with his story as a member of the Little Rock Nine -- a group of brave teenagers who broke through racial barriers in 1957 to become the first African American students to integrate the then all-white Little Rock Central High School in Arkansas. Mr. Roberts shared a message of acceptance and understanding that transcends generations and cultures.” – Superintendent, Rick Schmitt Understanding the links and connections between past and present is essential for a decent understanding of the condition of being human. History matters.
ALAMO ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
LEARNING FROM THE PAST By Stan Hitomi, Principal
When I started teaching in 1979, the state-of-the-art in technology were audio cassette tapes and VHS recorders and players. These new technologies allowed for information to become portable, storable, and accessible on demand. They provided teachers with tools they could use to transform teaching and learning. However, in most cases, these technologies were rarely fully utilized. In most cases an audio or video tape was played while the students passively listened and watched. The technology was new, but the teaching practices remained the same. It wasn’t until 1994, when I joined the ITV (instructional television) program at KQED that I learned how to use video as an interactive tool in the classroom. I learned that videos should be previewed by the teacher to preselect specific points to pause and check for student comprehension by asking students to summarize the segment or predict what would happen next. I learned to play video with the sound off and with the closed captioning on, or to blank the screen and run the audio to modify the focus of the lesson and accentuate video or audio portions of the program. Videos came alive and my teaching was transformed! Television was invented in 1927 and became popular during the 1950’s, but we were still learning how to use television in our classrooms well beyond the turn of the century. It could be argued that the potential benefits of TV and recorded video have never be fully realized in our schools. In the final decade of the 20th century, video tape gave way to the personal computer as the transformative technology. Once again we found ourselves pressed to fully utilize this new technology in classrooms. For the better part of 30 years, computers were being used to substitute or augment tasks that could be done without the computer. The tasks remained the same with functional improvements. An example would be exchanging word processing for typing. During the last 10 years, we have seen tremendous transformation in teaching and learning through the use of technology. Students can now express their learning through the creation of computer models/simulations and digital stories, and access learning via “smart” programs. At Alamo School, we are constantly exploring technologies to increase student engagement and enhance learning. Our 1st and 2nd graders have been working with Code-A-Pillars and Finches, both entry-level robots that introduce students to the concept of computer programming. Fifth graders at Alamo School are using CAD (computer-aided design) and 3D printing to supplement traditional projects in social studies. Shari Bergum-Hayes, our tech wizard, is behind all of this excitement. What’s next? Shari is working to bring laser engraving/ cutting, using our newly purchased laser, into our classrooms. Our kindergarten classrooms have been introduced to OSMO, a groundbreaking system that fosters social intelligence and creative thinking by partnering with iPads to turn the digital tool into interactive physical activities. We are currently partnering with the company to introduceAlamo School kindergartners to coding. Coding teaches logic skills and problem solving, and it helps kids succeed in an increasingly digital world. At Alamo School, we are very close to achieving a 1:1 device-to-student ratio with a computer lab, laptops, and iPads in every classroom. But history has shown that simply having the technology in the hands of students does not guarantee success. We are fortunate at Alamo School to have teachers who are interested and willing to try new approaches to their teaching. But more importantly, they have the knowledge and skills to blend the old with the new.
Alamo Rotary Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Livorna Park
Saturday, April 15 ~ 9AM-11AM
Egg Hunt Easter Bunny Visit Carnival Games Balloons Face Painting Music
Brought to the community by Rotary Club of Alamo With Special Thanks to Egg Hunt Major Sponsors:
Bach Group at Morgan Stanley | Diablo Fine Jewelers | John Muir Health Spectrum Wealth Partners | Tidewater Inc. | Thompson Consulting
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 9
STONE VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL
By Jon Campopiano, Principal
Thank you for ongoing support of our school and construction project. All bids have been approved, and work has begun – we need to string together a few weeks of dry weather to see significant progress. If you are interested in following the project, visit www.buildsrvschools.org or come and visit for a tour. We are thrilled to let you know that Stone Valley has been approved to become a Common Sense Certified School. As a staff, we are dedicated to teaching young people how to be safe, responsible, and kind digital citizens who are creating a digital footprint they can be proud of. All students have been taught lessons by our amazing Ms. Volenec regarding digital safety and have participated in two student assemblies. Additionally, we have hosted one parent education night with another one scheduled for Tuesday, March 21st at 7pm. Please join us if you can. As a school community, we remain committed to this work as we know how important this is to our students. I strongly encourage you to visit our digital citizenship page to view the lessons and get many valuable tools and tips to support your family and friends. Go to www.digitalsrvusd.net to learn more. Stone Valley is blessed with kids who care. Last year, 7th grade History and English teacher, Mr. Rasch, started a 20% project that allowed students to dream of learning something that inspired and challenged them. Students researched, created plans, presented TED talks on their project, and reached out to the community. We have had many students choose to give their time and passion to helping those in need. Here are a few amazing examples. Student Organizer: Madison - In her project, Madison combined her interest of photography and passion for helping children become more active. Madison will be raising money to donate directly to Kaboom to help build playgrounds to ensure that all kids can play. Student Organizer: Talia - Talia conducted a Swim-A-Thon inspired by a connection with a friend who has Down syndrome. She swam 123 laps and raised more than $2,500 for the Down Syndrome Connection. In February we celebrated our students during Kindness Week. We had a lunch time art project, student led assembly, music performances before and after school by our jazz band and choir, and treats provided to students and their parents. Please visit stonevalley.schooloop.com to see video and pictures from the week.
MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL
By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal
As Monte Vista delves into March, many of us find ourselves torn between this year and in the next. Our seniors are seeing their futures come into greater focus as acceptance letters are received and graduation plans are finalized. Our underclassmen are looking over their current progress and coursework in preparation for class registration for the 2017-18 school year, and members of our incoming freshman class are poised to make the leap into high school. As educators, we are also deeply involved with planning for next year. This month, we begin to plan our budgets, our master schedule, and our activities schedule for 2017-18. However, if we shift our thinking to the present and nearer future, it is easy to be excited about what’s happening at Monte Vista. On February 13th, the incoming class of 2021 came to Monte Vista and had the opportunity to meet with representatives from a variety of academic, art, and athletic programs; see performances from our music, choir, and cheerleading programs; hear about class registration and graduation requirements; and interact with a student panel regarding student life on campus. The event was well attended, and I have received scores of positive comments about our school and our programs. Hats off to Monte Vista’s Counseling Department for putting things together and to our Freshman Leadership, Choir, Music, Drama, and Cheerleading programs for their amazing performances. We are excited to see such a motivated and talented group of freshman ready to become Mustangs. Our focus on campus climate and culture made some great strides recently. Monte Vista’s entire Junior Class as well as 30 faculty members participated in the Breaking Down the Walls program. The day-long experience gave students the opportunity to spend time building positive relationships with their peers and the MV faculty. In addition, Monte Vista was also visited by speaker Mike Smith, who brought his message of how we need to treat each other to three assemblies of primarily 9th and 10th graders. A big thank you to Andrea Greco for her hard work in putting these two programs together.
On March 2nd, students from Monte Vista’s Black Student Union, Gay-Straight Alliance, Muslim Student Organization, Asian Student Union, Women’s Empowerment Club, and Leadership attended a presentation by Terrence Roberts, a member of the Little Rock Nine, which represented the first African-American students integrated into Arkansas Schools. Mr. Roberts will follow up with two more presentations to SRVUSD faculties and staffs as well. This exciting opportunity for our school community was made possible by SRVUSD Superintendent Rick Schmitt. We are grateful that he was able to bring Mr. Roberts to our school to share his story. On Saturday, March 10th, Monte Vista will celebrate its annual Junior Prom at the Scottish Rite Temple in Oakland. The event will be well attended, and I am sure our students will have a great and safe time. On behalf of Monte Vista High School, I would like to thank the many parent and faculty volunteers, our leadership class, and our activities director, Andrea Greco in advance for all of their work in making this an amazing and classy event. Monte Vista’s Arts Programs will be very busy over this month with a variety of performances. Our Drama Program will perform the Musical City of Angels through March 4th. Monte Vista’s Music Program will host the Area Band Festival on March 15th, and our Speech and Debate Program will host “An Evening of Speech and Debate” on March 16th. To finish off the month, Monte Vista’s Choir will hold their Pops Concert on March 23rd and 24th. Last, following another Monte Vista tradition, our annual Mr. Mustang performance is scheduled for March 9th. In athletics, Monte Vista’s Wrestling headed to the NCS Championship Tournament at the end of February, and several wrestlers hope to move on to the State Meet later in March. MV Women’s Soccer fell to a tough Liberty side in the NCS semi-finals, and MV Men’s Soccer came up short to Freedom in the quarter finals. Our Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams battled hard this year but came up just short on the post-season. Congratulations to all of our athletes and their coaches for their hard-fought seasons. Finally, spring sports are in full swing with many contests slated for early March and beyond. Please check the MV website (mvhs.schoolloop.com) for specific dates and details. I encourage the community to attend the wide variety of events on our campus in support of our amazing students. Dads on Campus, PTSA, Booster Groups, and Coffee with Kevin open up our campus for parent participation. See you soon!
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 10 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
Fine Mexican Dining
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITIES
Assistance League of Diablo Valley announces scholarship opportunities. As one of their ten philanthropic programs, Assistance League® of Diablo Valley established scholarship opportunities in 1999. Each year, this program has offered emotional and financial support to foster youth, high school, community college, and university students who demonstrate the need and desire to improve their lives by furthering their education. The deadlines for applications are Foster Youth - March 15, 2017, high school students - March 22, 2017, community college students - April 15, 2017. Two new donor-funded scholarships have recently become available. The Sandi Lou Back-to-School Scholarship which encourages a Contra Costa resident to return to college after an absence, and the Spotlight on You scholarship which funds pursuit in a special technical or vocational program. The deadline for both of these categories is April 15, 2017. To learn more, please visit www.diablovalley.assistanceleague.org. On the upper, left side of the screen, scroll down and click on Teacher Support and Scholarship Applications.
3RD ANNUAL ALAMO WALKABOUT
743-8997 In Stone Valley Shopping Center
Enjoy Our Patio Dining Monday - Saturday: Lunch and Dinner Sunday: Dinner only We Offer a Full Bar and Lounge 3168 Danville Blvd, Alamo Margaritas are a House Specialty
RPE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6
At California High School, Eric works with Laura Woods as an on-call theater professional available to address her theatre classes and work with her drama students as needed. Woods writes, “Eric has been coming in for a few years, and each time my students and I learn so much. He is a wealth of information for both my actors and my techies.” Woods continues, “Eric came into my Theatre 3 class to teach them about actors unions and to review audition etiquette. They were able to see professional headshots and hear from a working director about what he looks for at an audition. The students said it was ‘informative, necessary, and insightful.’” RPE hopes to provide similar support soon in other local high schools. Seven Cal High drama students came up on stage after the February 4th performance of Piano Lesson for a Talk Back session with Director Eric Fraisher Hayes and the cast. They engaged in a lively repartee for an hour. Woods, who accompanied them, recalls, “The Talk Back was succinct and professional, and it gave the students a unique opportunity to digest the symbolism of the play while getting advice from professional actors. They left the theatre beaming and excited to have been part of such a unique experience.” Laughing Stock, the final production of RPE’s 33rd season opens on April 14th. A Master Class takes place the following afternoon. Participants will work in the actual set on stage with Eric to learn about the intricacies of putting a play together. For details on the next Script-in-Hand performance, Honky, as well information on purchasing tickets and supporting RPE through subscriptions and donations, visit www.roleplayersensemble.com.
Do you have a story idea? Contact us at 925.405.6397 or Editor@YourMonthlyPaper.com.
Have you ever wondered about all the shops, businesses, and places around Alamo? Do you enjoy spending time with family and friends and even meeting a few new people too? This is the event for YOU! Come enjoy a trolley ride down Danville Boulevard, exploring new places and new people while enjoying some coffee, a sip of wine, or a little treat. Learn about our amazing town while having a great time! The 3rd Annual Alamo Walkabout is being held on Thursday, May 18th, from 5pm-8pm, organized by the Community Foundation of Alamo with a goal to bring community members to the downtown, to discover the variety of merchants and businesses located here, while having a fun time strolling or riding around the town. A Trolley will be available to take participants to the various venues. Also, Tony LaRussa’s Animal Rescue Foundation (ARF) will have a booth and barrels for Food Donations to the Contra Costa Food Bank will be located in Stone Valley Center. Ticket prices are $20 in advance or $25 at the event and include a wristband, a merchant participant map, an Alamo wine glass, an event tote bag filled with coupons and information, and transportation to the participating merchant sites, where food, beverages, and music will be offered. Community neighbors are invited to purchase tickets on the Foundation website www.CFAlamo.com. For more information, or to become a participating merchant or event sponsor, contact the foundation: www.CFAlamo.com. We look forward to seeing our friends and neighbors at the event!
ALAMO POLICE SERVICES ADVISORY COMMITTEE
JANUARY 2017 REPORTS
Alamo police responded to 36 crimes which included burglary, court order violation, stolen and recovered stolen vehicle, disturbance, forgery, fraud, grand theft, hospitalization, outside assist, petty theft, property found, robbery, identity theft, trespassing, and vandalism.
REPORTED INCIDENTS
• Susan Court, Residential Burglary: Suspects entered what appeared to be an unsecured vacant home and stole a television and power tool. Security cameras recorded the incident and the suspects’ faces. The case is currently being pursued with the evidence that was obtained through the investigation. • Alamo Plaza, Strong Arm Robbery: An unknown suspect was confronted by a Safeway employee after being suspected of stealing bottles of alcohol. The suspect battered the employee and fled the scene. The suspect was caught on the store’s video cameras. The case is being pursued with the evidence that was obtained during the investigation.
ITEMS OF INTEREST
• The investigation into two previous Alamo burglaries has led to suspect information. One burglary has produced a suspects identity through the use of DNA. The second burglary has produced a license plate and a suspect that matches the description of the registered owner. • DNA has been obtained and confirmed as usable for the carjacking that occurred in December of a white Porsche. Now the DNA is being run through the DNA database to search for a match to an identifiable suspect.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
TECHNOLOGY MATTERS
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 11
By Evan Corstorphine
Being a small business, we’ve adapted our staffing model to address your changing needs. When we formed Portable CIO in 2001, we offered our services solely through a time and materials (T&M) approach. As the marketplace matured, the sophistication of our client networks grew and clients required more regular attention; the T&M approach of a higher hourly rate no longer financially scaled. That rate was designed for short-duration engagements Gopher/Mole Removal of a few hours, not for day-long, week-long, or regular weekly engagements. No Poison T&M rates add up very quickly, and there has to be a cost justification when Information Technology (IT) services are performed. Since IT falls into the category of a “necessary expenses” and isn’t a profit center for businesses, we needed a service model that could work for our clients. 925-765-4209 The premise of providing outsourced IT services is that we the vendor will purchase and manage the people, processes, and software so you don’t have to grow your own IT function. You end up with a predictable line-item expense for support each month instead of adding costly headcount. At daily rates versus T&M rates, the cost justification for outsourcing your IT is compelling because we can provide your firm’s IT services better, faster, broader, and cheaper than you can do it for yourself. Suddenly, we’re a part of the Serving Alamo & Danville Since 1979! team, a partner, and not someone you see only when big problems occur. Our typical clients are firms who initially assigned IT responsibilities to someone internally who seemed to ‘have the knack,’ or they hired an entry-level person out of college to be their IT support when people inside need a little help. Or they’ll hire a “one man band” contractor. All of these models have serious shortcomings. Insofar as you need basic desktop support, it works OK for a while. My experience is that although these support folks above have great intentions, they have narrow, limited viewpoints when it comes to networking, security, best practices for backups, or www.actionpoolrepair.com approaches to disaster prevention or recovery. They don’t have great backgrounds in security, ransomware prevention, centralized systems, or corporate best-practices. In the business they support, they slide into a position of benign neglect because they lack the experience and reputation that gives them the positional authority to be taken seriously. They cannot lead their management because they are not seen as Contractor Lic# 978033-C53 being credible or authoritative. As such, they become isolated in their role, and as familiarity increases, their already limited clout diminishes. They don’t have the benefit of an experienced team to back them up. There is only so much one person can know or do. They also don’t have tracking systems or a Helpdesk to manage incoming requests, so they’re hopelessly reactive. Been there, done that. There is a better way. We provide ongoing business support in one of two ways. The first way is through a per-device service based on the number of computers you use. In this model, you have full-time access to our IT department, and we are responsible for ensuring everything in your technical world works. We’re full-time monitoring your computers and servers, and our Helpdesk picks up any requests by someone needing assistance, by email, telephone, or the client portal you can also use to submit requests. No matter what it is, someone will respond and take care of you. We provide an SLA (Service Level Agreement) that guarantees we will respond within a certain amount of time, and it includes different severity levels so that we have a way to triage incoming problems, separating emergencies from casual requests. This is the most popular of our support options, and it allows us to do our best work. The second option is through staff augmentation at daily rates. We provide an onsite technician for anywhere from one to three days per week who stays at your site helping your staff and doing projects for you. The advantage to this model is that because of the relationship, your staff now has full access to our fully staffed Helpdesk every day during business hours. When combined with the per-device services mentioned above, we have 360 degree visibility to support your needs. All the help that’s provided is tracked through a ticketing system which you may access remotely via your client portal. If you think there’s a better model to support your firm, let’s chat. We’re excited about the capabilities we bring and would love to learn more about your Advertorial situation. You can reach us at info@pcioit.com or 925-552-7953 opt 3.
ACTION POOL REPAIR
925.820.3640
CH RO M AT I C A CE L E B R AT E S I T S F I F TH BIRTHDAY WITH FOUR CONCERTS
Chromatica, a regional chorus recently dubbed “the undiscovered musical jewel of the East Bay,” will celebrate its fifth birthday with four concerts. • April 20, 7PM: the Event Center at Rossmoor (residents and guests only) • April 23, 4PM: St. Perpetua Church, 3454 Hamlin Road, Lafayette • April 29, 7PM: Clayton Valley Presbyterian Church, 1578 Kirker Pass Road, Clayton. • April 30, 6PM: Peace Lutheran Church, 3201 Camino Tassajara, Danville Chromatica began in 2011 in a kindergarten classroom at Peace Lutheran Church in Danville with seven singers and an electronic keyboard. Says founding musical director David Huff, “If enthusiasm was anything to go by, I expected we’d still be around in five years. But growing a successful chorus is a challenge…” Chromatica sang its first formal concerts in 2012 and ever since has sung two concert series every year in the spring and fall. Chromatica is noted for the extraordinary range of repertoire ranging from the 12th to the 21st century and from classical to contemporary. These concerts showcase some of the group’s favorite pieces. Chromatica will sing in Latin, French, German, Italian, and English. Says David Huff: “Chromatica has been very much a labor of love on
See Chromatica continued on page 22
C L A S S I F I E D COMPUTER HELP
ITkid Computer Help Assistance with any tech related issue for a low price. Help with Email•Wifi•Computer•Smartphone•Tablet•Etc. $40/hr. Contact Max Nunan, local ITkid consultant. (925) 482-5488, maxnunan@gmail.com
FOR RENT
CONDO VACATION RENTAL Mauna Lani Resort, Big Island. New luxury 2 bedroom, 2 1/2 bath condo on 4th fairway. Minimum 3 night stay. Contact Alamo owners for discounted rate. (925)381-7042, Alamomgt@usa.net
Alamo Today Classifieds
Reach over 6,500 homes and businesses in Alamo & Diablo - Help Wanted, For Sale, Services, Lessons, Pets, Rentals, Wanted, Freebies...$35 for up to 45 words.$5 for each additional 15 words. Send or email submissions to: 3000F Danville Blvd #117,Alamo,CA 94507 or editor@yourmonthlypaper.com. Run the same classified ad in our sister papers “Lafayette Today” or “Danville Today News” and pay half off for your second and/or third ad! Payment by check made out to “The Editors” must be received before ad will print. Your cancelled check is your receipt. We reserve the right to reject any ad.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 12 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
OUR PRIVATE CARIBBEAN
By Lisa Kallen, Alamo World Travel
Living in California it’s easy to overlook the Caribbean as a destination for sun, adventure, and glorious beaches. But you won’t do that again after enjoying a WindStar cruise through the Caribbean. My friend and I boarded our five-masted sailing yacht, the Wind Surf carrying just 270 guests, after an easy flight into St. Maarten. We were greeted with champagne and hors d’oeuvres, eager to embark on our “Yachtsman’s Caribbean” itinerary through the British Virgin Islands. Our first port of call was Falmouth Harbour on Antigua. We had signed up for a shore excursion, ziplining through the Canopy, which turned out to be an exhilarating start to our vacation. We zoomed over 12 ziplines (feeling quite safe the entire time, thanks to the team of expert guides) followed by an obstacle course through the lush treetops. It was probably the best excursion I have ever taken! The second day, we enjoyed a full day at sea, starting with a stretching class then yoga in the morning followed by a galley tour and a cooking demo of Spiced Chocolate Mousse. Our captain announced mid-day that we were under power of only the sails…and we were soon accompanied by a small pod of Minke whales who surfed alongside of us for about an hour. After that thrill, we had drinks with new friends, and it was time to watch our second dramatic sunset. WindStar has an open-bridge policy for those of us fascinated by all things nautical. We enjoyed chatting with the captain and first officer to learn more about our route, instrumentation, and the workings of the sails. We even watched as one of the crew used a sextant to confirm our course at sunset using just two stars and the horizon. We came ashore next morning at Soper’s Hole on the tip of Tortola, a tiny village awash in pinks, turquoises, and oranges with gingerbread-trimmed shops. This was where we discovered our first “Painkiller,” a rum and coconut drink famous in the British Virgin Islands. We snorkeled among sea caves and along a reef with sea turtles, rays, barracuda, and an abundance of fish in every pattern. That afternoon, back on the Wind Surf, we played with the water toys at the back of the ship’s Sports Marina--kayaks, stand-up paddleboards, rafts, and a huge water trampoline--until close to sunset.
Tiny Jost Van Dyke is where we came ashore in the evening to a moonlit port and spent hours dancing at Foxy’s Bar, again Painkillers in hand. Next morning we crested a hill and looked down upon the most vibrant turquoise water I have ever seen. This was White Bay, a secluded beach where we spent the afternoon snorkeling, just our guests and a few catamarans and sailboats. Not another cruise ship was in sight for miles. We capped our day off by a visit to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar for more Painkillers, and then we set sail that night for Virgin Gorda. And what a surprise Virgin Gorda was. First stop was Devil’s Bay, a small, turquoise cove nestled among huge, dramatic granite boulders. After snorkeling, we went pseudo-spelunking through a vast field of those looming rocks, clambering over them, under them, and around them while splashing in hidden shadowy pools. I’ve never seen anything like it in the Caribbean before. We ended up at secluded Fischer’s Cove where our fabulous WindStar crew had set up a sprawling beach BBQ for us. We feasted and danced, snorkeled, water skied, and kayaked all afternoon. Final stop for us was gorgeous St. Bart’s, a playground of mega-yachts, high-end shopping, and beaches. It’s a fascinating place to people-watch. What makes WindStar cruises so unique is the perfect balance of small ships (150 – 300 guests), luxurious staterooms and lounges, fine dining (from local specialties to classic French cuisine), stellar excursions, attentive service…and those intimate, uncrowded ports of call. It is the perfect combination for your next cruise to the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, French Polynesia, Asia, or even Iceland. You’ll never go back to a big ship again! Lisa Kallen is a Travel Consultant with Alamo World Travel, specializing in tours, cruises, and customized vacations around the world. Visiting family in La Bella Italia is a favorite vacation along with “soft adventures” just about anywhere in the world. You can reach her at (925) 837-8742 ext. 18 or lkallen@alamoworld.com. Advertorial Please Join Us for CRYSTAL CRUISE NIGHT Wednesday, March 15 from 6 to 7:30PM at Forbes Mill Steakhouse in Danville
Wine & hors d’oeuvres, cruise highlights and new itineraries, plus special travel discounts and prizes for our guests.
Please RSVP to (925) 837-8742
Business is Fantastic! When do you plan on moving?
CURRENT LISTINGS
• 100 Atkinson Street, Roseville - 8 commercial buildings plus 6 acres of parking. Across the street from Denio’s Auction/Flea Market – OFFERED at $4.2 million. • 766 Citrus Avenue, Concord, 4 bedroom, 2.5 bath, large lot, pool – OFFERED at $711,000. • Vernon Street and Riverside Avenue, Roseville - 30 acres vacant commercial land – OFFERED at $4.1 million.
INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY: PERSONAL STORIES OF PAKISTAN
Come to an event featuring Danville author, Lubna Jahangiri on Saturday, March 25, 10AM - Noon at the Danville Town Hall located at 201 Front Street. Hear Jahangiri talk about her book The Little Stepmother, A Novel, her experiences living in Pakistan, and issues impacting young girls and women in Pakistan today. This no-cost event is open to the public. Light refreshments will be served. Your RSVP is needed by end of day March 19 to help with planning arrangements and refreshments. For more information, go to http://daw-ca.aauw.net/international-womens-day/. Please RSVP and send any questions to hollys.difference@gmail.com.
SOLD PROPERTIES
295 Las Quebradas Lane, Alamo – SOLD | 297 Las Quebradas Lane, Alamo – SOLD 299 Las Quebradas Lane, Alamo – SOLD | Hickory Rail Way, Elk Grove – SOLD Colfax Theater, 49 South Main Street, Colfax – SOLD Historic Masonic Lodge, plus 27 acres, Dutch Flat – SOLD 918 Douglas Boulevard, Roseville – SOLD
Dale Bridges
United California Brokers | BRE 01176228
(925) 876-9710 | dale@dalebridges.com
“Let’s Do Business”
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 13
SONOMA’S NEW CHOCOLATE TASTING ROOM AND CAFE: COCOAPLANET
By Linda Summers-Pirkle
A slice of hot buttered toast with a smear of exquisitely tart raspberry rhubarb Danish marmalade for breakfast in Scandinavia, and a perfectly grilled salmon steak with potatoes, onions, and a bit of Becherovka in the Municipal House in Prague are two “meal memories” that stand out for me. I can add a memory to my list when on a recent trip to Paris in a café on Rue du Bac my three adult children and I enjoyed a rainy afternoon as we sipped our coffees and luxurious hot chocolate. Anne McKibben, the founder of CocoaPlanet, a newly opened chocolate tasting room and café in Sonoma, was born in Paris to a French mother and American father. She was inspired by the memories of the delicious hot chocolate lovingly made by her mother and grandmother as well as her experiences in the grand cafes and chocolate houses of Paris where hot chocolate is made the old fashioned way (l’ancienne). Anne says, “I love the taste of the delicious rich hot chocolate in France. The true French method requires high quality tempered chocolate (no powdered Swiss Miss) and slowly melting it into hot milk. The process can take an hour or more if done in the traditional manner. I wanted to make the process easier yet retain the creamy delicious taste I loved as a child.” Anne McKibben Jeff McKibbin, the founder’s husband, shared the story behind CocoaPlanet. “When she was pregnant with our first child (who is now 12 years old), Anne had the idea to make chocolate that was reminiscent of her early days in France and also be low in sugar—her mother had been diagnosed with diabetes.” With a background in manufacturing and marketing, Anne invented a new technology so she could create her ‘pearls of flavor’ which suspends pearls of flavor within premium dark chocolate. It’s low in calories and low in sugar. The chocolate is delicious as a morsel and dissolves into hot milk, creating a rich and creamy hot chocolate. With flavors like salted caramel, deep dark truffle, vanilla espresso, mandarin orange and CocoaMint,
Stop by our new office in the Alamo Courtyard 3195 Danville Blvd #4, Alamo it’s difficult to choose a favorite. Jeff mentioned that when the old Sonoma Print Shop location became available, it was just the kind of spot they were looking for. Just a short distance from Sonoma Square, the building was long and narrow which was the configuration they needed to house their chocolate making equipment. The area behind the building was in need of restoration with overgrown weeds and even an abandoned car or two. It’s hard to imagine the history of the lot when you see Outside “Chocolate Garden” at CocoaPlanet. the complete transformation from a junk area into a stunning garden with olive trees, wisteria, stone paths, and cozy areas with fire pits. During the summer and spring, this “Chocolate Garden” will be open for entertaining. CocoaPlanet offers a full menu including French favorites: Lentil Soup, Croque Monsieur’s, Crepes, Cassoulet, and Quiche, and some interesting tastings such as the “Power Nibble” - two chocolates, almonds, and sharp white cheddar cheese. The CocoaPlanet Mocha with steamed milk (lactose free), an espresso shot, and CocoaMint flavoring is delicious. CocoaPlanet tasting room and café is located at 921 Broadway in Sonoma, and they are open Thursday-Saturday 11:30 AM-6 PM and Sunday 11:30AM-5PM. Expanded hours will begin in the spring. Starting this summer, they will offer demonstrations of how to make hot chocolate from CocoaPlanet Chocolates. Call (707) 721-1275 or visit their website at www.cocoaplanet.com. Call ahead for tours. Linda Summers Pirkle, travel consultant and long term Danville resident, has arranged and led tours for the Town of Danville for several years. Inspired by the many wonderful places to visit in the Bay Area, she organizes day trips, either for groups or for friends and family. “What a great place to live, so much to see, so much to do.” To share your “Quick Trips” ideas email Coverthemap@gmail.com.
PAGE 14 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 15
SPRING PRUNING
Ro u n d H i l l C o u n t r y C l u b
By Blaine Brende & Joe Lamb
Once again, it’s that time of year when the landscape grows lush, beautiful... and out of control. At Brende & Lamb, we prune to balance the practical with the aesthetic. When our clients ask us to restore their views, bring more light into their gardens, and reduce fire hazards, we do our best to keep their screening intact and to protect their privacy. At the same time, we work hard to enhance the natural beauty of their trees. Balancing your tree care needs is a skill we’ve developed over decades of caring for trees.
AESTHETIC PRUNING
Each plant has a natural growth pattern. Aesthetic pruning accentuates the shape given the plant by nature, and good pruning creates a light and open feeling. A well-pruned plant enhances the observer’s experience by accentuating the interplay of light and shadow, open spaces and denser spaces, and the sculptural elements revealed in a tree’s trunk and branch. The first step in aesthetic pruning is to see the flow of the tree. We begin by looking at the base of the trunk, and then we let our eyes follow the trunk upward into the branches and out to the branch tips. We notice how the flow of the branches determines the tree’s form. The form may be weeping, as with Willows and Chinese Elms. Perhaps, as with Monterey Cypress, the branches form at acute angles to the trunk, giving the tree an upswept look. Or the branches may bend and twist, forming complex arcs, as does the Coast Live Oak. Within these patterns, each tree has its own unique form and flow.
PRUNING AND SIZE REDUCTION
It is important to prune in a manner that does not harm the health of the tree. When thinning a pine, for example, it is important not to strip the major branches of their smaller branches, a practice called “lion-tailing” which leaves a branch denuded except for foliage at the end. Lion-tailing increases the chance of branch failure by concentrating the weight at the branch tips. A healthier tree and more subtly beautiful look is achieved by thinning to highlight the spaces or “layers” in a tree’s natural patterns. Removing diseased wood, and removing or reducing crossing branches that interrupt the natural flow, lets in more light and air, encouraging interior growth and overall health. Careful pruning can increase desired screening over time by encouraging interior growth.
Offer Extended Through April 1
Renovation Special Renovate your lifestyle In anticipation of our upcoming Clubhouse renovation, Round Hill Country Club is offering up to a $10,000 credit on a limited number of new Memberships. • Golf Membership: Initiation $40,000*, receive a credit on the Member account of $10,000. • Tennis Membership: Initiation $6,000, receive a credit on the Member account of $3,000. • Associate-Swim Membership: Initiation $2,500, receive a credit on the Member account of $1,250. • Social Membership: Initiation $1250 -Back for a very limited offering Available January 6 to April 1, 2017. Promotional credits are usable for any charges other than Initiation Fees. Admissions Requirements apply. *Purchase of a share also required.
Please contact our Membership Office for more details at rhcc@roundhillcc.org or 925.314.2901 Offer subject to change without prior notice.
www.rhcountryclub.com
You Know the Name of Your Doctor, Dentist & Hairdresser. BUT… Do you know your Realtors’ name? Don’t you think you should?!
AESTHETIC VIEW WORK
In view work, the beauty of the view and the beauty of the tree often seem to be in conflict. Some tree-workers will sacrifice the tree for the view by “topping” the tree. Topping is almost always a bad idea. “Topping” creates a dense re-growth in “water-sprouts” that is unsightly. But more than the tree’s beauty is at stake here. Topping wounds the tree and promotes disease, including heart rot, and can make the tree dangerous. The water-sprouts on a topped tree are not deeply anchored in the trunk and are subject to failure in high winds. Add in the fact that these sprouts may be anchored onto a rotting trunk, and you have a safety problem that gets worse over time. Responsible arborists do not top trees. Removing a tree, perhaps replacing it with a smaller variety that can be kept out of the view, is usually preferable to beheading it. Looking at tree and view as two elements that complement each other can often solve view problems. Sometimes, lightly bringing the tree back without cutting into major branches can prevent further encroachment on the view. To open even more of the view, we create windows by selectively removing branches not essential for the tree’s natural form. We can enlarge these windows by removing branchlets that rise or drop into the view. Thinning above and below the window creates a feeling of openness, rather than a gaping hole. The image formed by Mt. Diablo framed by the trembling leafs of a well-windowed tree proves that nature and civilization can complement each other. 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
It’s time we met! Terri Silva CalBRE #01920415
925.519.0758 terri@terrisilva.com
©2016 Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. All Rights Reserved. Coldwell Banker® is a registered trademark licensed to Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC. An Equal Opportunity Company. Equal Housing Opportunity. Each Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage Office is Owned by a Subsidiary of NRT LLC. Real Estate Licensees affiliated with Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage are Independent Contractor Sales Associates and are not employees of Coldwell Banker Real Estate LLC, Coldwell Banker Residential Brokerage or NRT LLC. CalBRE License #01908304.
ALAMO RESIDENT
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 16 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
Alamo’s 1st & Only Pediatric Dentist! Alamo Pediatric Dentistry & Orthodontics Welcomes Dr. Allan Pang Dr. Pang completed his undergraduate degree at the University of California, San Diego. He earned his Doctorate of Dental Medicine at Tufts University School of Dental Medicine in Boston, Massachusetts. After Tufts he completed a General Practice Residency at University of California, Los Angeles. Thereafter, Dr. Pang practiced general dentistry in the community of Los Gatos, California for two years. It was during this time that he realized how much he enjoyed working with his pediatric patients and returned to school to specialize in Pediatric Dentistry. His residency in Pediatric Dentistry at New York University-Bellevue Hospital in New York City allowed for him to have extensive training in treating the well child and those with special healthcare needs such as children with craniofacial disorders and developmental disabilities. Dr. Pang has been in private practice since 2008. He is a Board Certified Pediatric Dentist, a Diplomate with the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, and a member of the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry.
(925) 831-8310
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 17
LIFE IN THE ALAMO GARDEN
Home Composting for Busy People
THE NIGHT GARDEN By John Montgomery, ASLA, Landscape Architect #4059
What if the glory of your Alamo garden could come to life at night? There is so much to be enjoyed after the sun goes down. When designing a successful garden the night garden must be considered. So many Alamo families enjoy evening entertaining, sitting on the patio drinking wine or iced tea, playing games, night swimming, or playing hide-n-seek until midnight. The essentials of a great night garden are sound, scent, light, and fire. There’s nothing more soothing than the sound of trickling or babbling water echoing through the landscape. Waterfalls, streams, and fountains are an important attraction to all gardens, whether it is day or night. Water masks the “unwanted” sounds of traffic and noisy neighbors. The night garden becomes so much more romantic with the sound of water soothing the night.
Designing-in the essential night-blooming plants that add fragrance and scent enhance the night garden ten-fold. Fragrance adds another dimension of pleasure to your garden, especially at night. Scent also heightens your outdoor experience by encompassing the most powerful of our senses, the sense of smell. Just as perfume induces the senses, fragrant plants intoxicate and romanticize any setting. White and pastel flowers are the most fragrant, pale pinks are the most potent pastels, these characteristics diminish through the color wheel to the mauves and yellows, and to the less scented purples and blues. Vibrant colors such as oranges and crimsons will provide dramatic color in the garden, but they add little or no fragrance to the night garden. Fragrance becomes intensified in enclosed areas, so plant your most fragrant selections in a courtyard or trellised patio, or surround your garden with hedges and windbreaks to encourage the fragrance of plants to linger. Some of my favorites include jasmines (jasminum polyanthum, jasminum officinale, and jasminum sambac), gardenias (Gardenia jasminoides), Mexican orange (Choisya ternata), Daphne (Daphne x burkwoodii), Sweet Olive (Osmanthus fragrans), and citrus (oranges, lemons, tangerines, and blood oranges) to enhance the sense of fragrance of the night garden. Lighting your garden at night touches our visual sensibilities. Creating a “lighting portrait” is another essential to the night garden. From mood and ambiance to functionality, lighting brings life to the night garden. A “lighting portrait” is not just plunking Malibu lights into your landscape but is a creative approach that paints a landscape for nighttime enjoyment. Downlighting, moonlighting, uplighting, silhouetting, shadowing, and washing create moods and ambiance. Lighting to feature sculpture, accents, and structures create visual focal points in the dark which in-turn brings drama to the night garden. Lighting water features produces very dramatic effects. Watching the illuminated diamonds bounce off the glowing surface becomes a mesmerizing effect at night. Underwater lighting for pools, waterfalls, fountains, and ponds makes the water glow, giving emphasis to water’s natural attraction. Another major mood maker and important feature in the night garden is fire. There is nothing like fire on either a summer evening or a cozy winter’s night to bring drama, function, and romance. I find the fire element to be very important to my clients. Fire can be implemented from the very simple to the more complicated. The simple and least expensive approach is a portable firepit from Target to a Mexican pottery “chiminea.” The simple accouterments can add hours of evening pleasure as well as a built in firepit or full blown outdoor fireplace. Fire elements have become very popular in the last several years because they add yet another element to make your outdoor environment more inviting and useful, especially the night garden. A hot tip from your local Landscape Architect: Lighting and fire features are always considered in a new landscape design but can be considered as an addition to an existing landscape.
Reduced cost compost bins • Free workshops • Vermicomposting & Bin Building Workshops • CompostSMART Advanced Training • Republic Services garbage bill discount • Free guides and resources •
www.RecycleSmart.org Offer available to RecycleSmart residents within Orinda, Lafayette, Moraga, Walnut Creek, Danville and unincorporated Central Contra Costa County (Alamo, Blackhawk, Diablo) and residents within the City of San Ramon.
Gardening Quote of the Month: I often think that the night is more alive and more richly colored than the day. ~Vincent Van Gogh 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
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 18 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
CLIP NOTES
By Jody Morgan
Often characterized as the Father of Botany, Greek author Theophrastus (c.371-c.287 BC) grouped grapevines with trees. Having personally seen the world’s largest grapevine at Hampton Court Palace, I understand his point of view. The trunk of the Great Vine measures 13 feet around the base. The longest rod stretches 120 feet. Hampton Court Palace is seated on the River Thames, 11.7 miles southwest of central London. Structures on the property have been regularly remodeled since the Middle Ages. A royal palace from the time of Henry VIII, Hampton Court ceased to have monarchs in residence after George III ascended to the throne in 1760. In 1764, George III appointed Lancelot Brown Master Gardener. Highly sought after by members of the aristocracy as a landscape designer, Brown was nicknamed “Capability” for his habit of assuring clients that their estates had great “capability” for landscape improvement. Brown took a cutting from a Black Hamburg grapevine growing at Valentine’s Park in Essex and planted it at Hampton Court c.1768. Brown trained the branches within a glasshouse originally designed for Queen Mary’s collection of exotic tropical plants, but he dug the roots in outside the structure. At the time, the sweet black dessert grapes produced by the vine were considered a luxury to be savored only at the table of the royal family. By 1790, the vine had already outgrown the 60’ x 30’ space, and an 11.5-foot extension was added. The year1807 brought the greatest harvest yielding 2,245 bunches. The average weight of each bunch is one pound. The Great Vine was a venerable 70 years old in 1838 when the young Queen Victoria decided the palace gardens and royal apartments should be opened free of charge to all her subjects. Grapes from the vine were sent to serve her majesty at Windsor or at Osbourne House on the Isle of Wight. By the time James Jack was appointed Vine Keeper in 1884, the vine was suffering from having its glasshouse constantly open to visitors. In an interview printed in The Straights Times, March 11, 1916, Jack explains, “The vine was in the old house when I came, and in those days the public was allowed inside. The doors were always open, and it was exposed to every draught. The dust and traffic were very much against grape growing.” Jack revised pruning methods and restored the Great Vine to remarkable vigor. In 1904, as a youthful 136 year old, the Great Vine got new quarters. The heated glasshouse included a special viewing gallery that separated the admiring public from the prolific plant. When a larger enclosure was required in 1969, it was constructed over the existing one so that the modern aluminum framing left the early 20th century wrought iron supports in place. Today, some half-million people come to gawk at the grapevine annually. Grapes were first sold to the public shortly after World War I in small wicker baskets at St. Dunstans, the home for soldiers blinded in battle. In 1930, George V began sending the delicious fruit to hospitals. During World War II, German POWs were put to work thinning bunches of grapes. Today, grapes are sold at Hampton Court Palace during the three weeks of harvest in September. Picked in the morning, they are at the shop by noon for sale the same afternoon. The harvest is usually 500-700 pounds. Gillian Cox accepted the post of Keeper of the Great Vine in 1985. It’s a yearround, one-woman job. When the buds begin to break in February, the soil both inside and outside the glasshouse is fertilized. Disbudding reduces the number
EARTH DAY RESTORATION AND CLEAN UP
California State Parks Foundation will be holding an Earth Day Restoration and Clean-up at multiple sites throughout the state on April 22 from 9AM - 12:30PM. The closest event will take place at Mount Diablo State Park.Check-in time is 8:30AM. Work will involve trail work, split rail fence installation, and weed removal. Project leader for the Mount Diablo site is Dan Stefinisko, who can be contacted at Dan.Stefinisko@parks.ca.gov or (925) 855-1730.
To reach Alamo Today call us at 925-405-6397
of shoots. After the small fragrant flowers fade in May, the number of emerging bunches permitted to develop is carefully controlled. One thousand bunches is considered the optimum. Foliar and liquid feedings are applied through the summer. Leaf thinning allows sunlight to reach ripening fruit. Following the harvest, the Vine Keeper tends to pruning and taking cuttings for sale. The Great Vine is not the oldest grapevine in the world. Parisian experts on vine genetics calculate the age of the “Old Vine” in the Lent quarter of Maribor, Slovenia’s second largest city, as at least 400 years. Red wine is made annually from the fruit, but most of the 100 exquisite 0.25L bottles produced are given to municipal and state authorities. Partially burned numerous times and hit by Allied bombs during World War II, the house on which the resilient vine grows is now restored as a museum.
POTATO, POTATO
By Cynthia Ruzzi, Sustainable Danville Area
We all eat them; we all love them. Okay, perhaps we don’t all eat them, but there are enough of us for the Northern Plains Potato Growers Association to state ‘the average American eats over four pounds per year. My family definitely exceeds this estimate since I grow organic fingerling potatoes every year. Much like the difference between a store-bought tomato and one fresh from your yard, you haven’t tasted a potato until you’ve dug this gold out of your own humus. Potatoes are a particularly easy and fun growing project for young children. March is the right month to begin your spuds. I usually source organic seed potatoes from Peaceful Valley Farms in Nevada City, California - Groworganic.com. My family is particularly fond of the French Fingerling, Norland Red, and Yukon Gold varieties, but you might find Purple Majesty or Viking potatoes a fun surprise for as well. You can grow potatoes in the ground or in garden beds, but it’s easiest to grow in towers or bins—which avoids a lot of unnecessary digging. I have an unused compost bin that stacks in four separate pieces, but you can make a tower with reed screening wrapped around a tomato cage or remove the bottom off a plastic garbage bin just as well. Towers make it easy to harvest a few new potatoes or to tumble out your mature spuds as you deconstruct them at the end of the season. If a potato is smaller than two inches, plant it whole. Larger seeds can be cut into one or two ounce pieces, making sure that each have an ‘eye’ or two. Our soil tends to be clay heavy which is rich in nutrients but doesn’t drain very well. A couple bags of sandy loam will provide an excellent home for your spuds and a welcome addition to your yard when the potato season has finished. Place a single layer of seed potatoes with eyes facing skyward about 8 inches apart in each tower and cover with 3 inches of soil. As the potatoes grow, you’ll ‘hill up’ to cover the growing stalk with soil and protect it from sun exposure. This will encourage more potatoes to grow up the ‘hill.’ Every two weeks, when the plants have grown 4-5 inches, add a mound of soil around the stalks, leaving about one inch of the shoot exposed. Keep the soil moist, but do not overwater. Continue to gently mound soil around the stalks until you have a hill within your tower of a foot or two feet. Make sure not to pack the soil, and, in fact, I usually switch to a mulch of straw after two feet. You’ll be surprised by a lovely bush, and once the plant begins flowering, potatoes will begin to form below. It takes about 50 – 60 days for new potatoes to grow. If you are satisfied with the size of your potatoes, you can cut your watering and allow the plant to die back. Watering for a few more weeks will supersize your spuds, but remember that mice don’t grow into elephants—so consider the type of potato seed you started with. After the plant dies, you will need to wait a few more weeks for the potatoes to suberize before harvesting potatoes that you will want to last. Suberizing is the act of the potato skin hardening, allowing you to store for longer periods. Of course, you can harvest new potatoes for the evening dinner along the way. Remove the reed and watch your potatoes tumble out, or allow the kids to dig in to find their treasure. Now it’s time for homemade fries! On three cookie sheets covered with aluminum foil, I spray a little olive oil and place thin slices (about ¼ inch) of potatoes and sprinkle with a little sea salt. Place in an oven at 350 degrees until crisp, and then flip to the other side. Enjoy! Share your potato exploits and pictures with us at www.facebook.com/ sustainabledanville.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 19
ENERGY CURRENTS
ON YET ANOTHER MISSION By Mark Becker, GoSimple Solar
Recently there has been a glut of unappealing solar PV projects installed in my neighborhood that negatively impact the individual home and the neighborhood’s visual appeal. Per California Law, Homeowner Associations (HOA’S) do have some amount of control over the aesthetic impact of solar PV projects. It may sound strange to you that a business owner in the solar industry is seeking more regulation or enforcement. However, solar professionals know it’s best for the solar industry to be represented by aesthetically appealing installations and have pride in ALL solar work, even if performed by others. HOA Architectural Review Committees (ARC’s) are often demonized. But ARC’s do important work to maintain community aesthetics. A solar project’s potential visual impact to the community should have some oversight through design review. For those with homes outside of HOA’s, you may consider yourself lucky. However, unless your neighbors are well educated as to how to ensure a visually appealing solar PV system is installed, a “solar ugly home” may be soon coming near you. Homeowners and business owners choose to “go solar” for financial reasons. There are well over 580,000 solar projects in California. A properly installed solar PV project will provide excellent financial return and stand the test of time for 25+ years. Twenty-five years is a long time to be generating typically well over six figures of income in savings with solar. It’s also a long time to be subjected to the visual impact of a poorly installed solar PV system. With knowledge, you can have excellent savings and maintain visual appeal. The solar PV industry will continue to grow which is a great thing for homeowner’s finances and for the environment. With growth will come more unappealing installations unless efforts are made to improve the appeal. By experience, I’ve realized it’s going to take a community to positively improve solar aesthetics moving forward. With this effort we will protect our home values and the visual appeal of our neighborhoods, and ultimately, the solar industry will benefit as well. After all, a well-installed solar PV system can be a beautiful thing. How do we achieve this? Homeowner Education: A homeowner should be aware of the aesthetic options a properly qualified solar PV installation team can offer. A homeowner should ensure that the layout of the planned system is well understood and conceptualized before contract signing. Expect exact design drawings from a solar PV contractor after contract signing but before approving an installation date for your project. Of course, ensure your solar PV contractor is properly licensed. Proper solar PV licensing and installer qualifications is critical as water intrusion is the number one homeowner damage claim. Solar PV Contractor Compliance: The California State Contractor’s Board (CSLB) has singled out the solar segment of the contracting industry as one that generates some of the “biggest sources of complaints from consumers.” Google “CSLB, Solar Reminders ” and you’ll see the complaints run from falsification of cost savings, shoddy work, unlicensed work, selling more than a customer needs, etc. “Selling more than a customer needs” is a tactic that maximizes the profit for the contractor. There is virtually zero return on investment for the portion of a solar project that has been sized too large for the customer’s needs. Homeowner’s Associations: The Solar Rights Act law is intended to help encourage the adoption of solar PV systems. Conversely, The Solar Rights Act also provides HOA’s a legal means to enforce aesthetic guidelines for solar PV installations. When these guidelines are not enforced in an HOA, the result is (to speak frankly) oftentimes the appearance that some contractor simply puked solar panels onto a homeowners roof. In my opinion, it’s the contractor’s responsibility to perform with diligence and professionalism. Unfortunately, in the real world, “buyer beware” has become the norm. HOA’s “Codes, Covenants, and Restrictions” must actually be enforced to be effective. Homeowner interaction with the HOA: If an HOA does not have, or is not enforcing, their rights to protect your neighborhood, it’s incumbent on the homeowner members of that HOA to petition the HOA to do so. HOA’s represent the will of the homeowner group. Whether or not you are in a neighborhood with an HOA, the most effective tactic to ensure appropriate compliance with aesthetic guidelines is indeed homeowner education. Find GoSimpleSolar’s “Solar Aesthetic Commitment” document at www.GoSimpleSolar.com/AestheticCommitment. Demand your solar installer follows similar guidelines; your neighborhood appeal and your home’s value will be positively impacted. 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, call 925-331-8011, visit www.GoSimpleSolar.com, or stop by the showroom at 115 West Linda Mesa Avenue, Danville. Advertorial
PAGE 20 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
ESTATE PLANNING MYTHS
By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.
A considerable number of myths exist about Estate Planning. While misconceptions may be less prevalent due to increased media coverage and more sophisticated consumers, I still encounter quite a few. Below, I’ve outlined some of the more common misconceptions, and I attempt to set the record straight as to each. 1. Myth: If you are not wealthy or if you have a Will, you don’t need a Revocable Living Trust (“Trust”). Reality: California Residents who die with or without a Will (and have no Trust), owning an aggregate of more than $150,000* of assets are generally subject to probate. Probate is a public, court supervised estate administration process that typically takes nine months to a year, or longer; requires a great deal of paperwork and hassle; and involves substantial attorneys’ fees, executor fees and costs. *Certain kinds of assets, such as joint or P.O.D. accounts, joint tenancy assets, and insurance and retirement accounts with designated beneficiaries are not included; they’re also exempt from probate. Fortunately, all assets titled in a Trust are exempt from Probate. So, regardless of one’s level of wealth and particularly for those who own a home and/ or any other real estate, a Trust is an excellent “Will substitute” and probate avoidance vehicle. Note that even if you have a Trust, it is important to also have a “pour-over” Will – a safety net to ensure that any non-trust assets are distributed per your wishes. 2. Myth: It is time consuming and complicated to establish and manage a Trust. Reality: A Trust: a) takes little more time to establish than a Will; b) does not need to be significantly more complicated than a comprehensive Will; c) is typically quite straightforward to fund (i.e. to retitle your assets in the Trust); and d) is managed nearly identically to the way one manages assets without a Trust, other than the need to observe some minor formalities. 3. Myth: A Trust has income tax implications and triggers extra filing
FINANCIAL PLANNING - A CASE STUDY Presented by Peter T. Waldron
Does this sound like you? • Age demographic = 35 to 45 • High income (anywhere from $250,000 to $1,500,000 per year in income) • Have kids • Have demanding jobs where either one or both of the parents are employed • Have multiple 401(k)s from prior jobs • Have not completed an Estate Plan • Have the goal of paying for college for your kids, but either have a plan and aren’t sticking to the funding of it or haven’t started a plan • Are contributing to retirement accounts but don’t know if you’re contributing the right amount • Aren’t sure if you are taking too much vacation or not enough vacation • Don’t know if you are saving enough • Busy raising kids and not planning for the future We have found that in our client base, a large portion of our clients fit this scenario. With this common trend, we feel that it’s important to share the answers to the most common questions and concerns of this group. At Spectrum Wealth Partners, we take extra time to gather the questions and provide this group with the answers they need to help protect their entire family. Here are the common topics covered: Our Parents - “Are they ok?” Are their parents financially prepared for retirement? Are their parents going to help out with their grandchildren’s college? What happens if your kids are in college (which you are fully funding) and the next thing you know your parents go into a long-term care facility. How would that impact your financial situation and the ability to fund each? Life Insurance - “What is the amount of life insurance that I need?” One goal of our planning conversations with our clients is to figure out how much life insurance is needed as well as to determine that the remaining spouse and
www.yourmonthlypaper.com requirements. Reality: When you establish a Trust for yourself (or you and your spouse), no additional income taxes or property taxes are triggered, and there are no additional income tax filing requirements during your life. 4. Myth: You should be afraid to do a Trust because doing so will lock you into the decisions you make. Reality: A Revocable Living Trust is revocable (though there is seldom any reason to revoke it) and may be amended any time you wish. As your personal, familial and financial circumstances change, it is quite easy and affordable to work with your estate planning attorney to review and revise your document so that it continues to reflect your current wishes. The above is in contrast to Irrevocable Trusts, which are used only in limited, specialized situations (e.g. when people gift to minors, young adults or anyone who receives government benefits for special needs; and when very affluent people gift to loved ones and/or charitable organizations for Federal Estate and Gift Tax mitigation purposes). 5. Myth: If I sign a Power of Attorney, I don’t need a Will or Trust. Reality: Every adult should have a Power of Attorney. It gives someone you trust the power to transact financial business for you in the event of your incapacity. If you become incapacitated and have no valid Power of Attorney, an expensive and cumbersome Conservatorship court proceeding will likely be necessary to vest someone with legal authority to manage your finances. As helpful as a Power of Attorney is, however, it’s only operative during your life; when you’re gone, it ceases to operate and your Trust and/or Will then become the governing document(s). * Estate Planning * Trust Administration & Probate * Real Estate * Business Please contact the author to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. Mr. Silverman is an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group which is located at 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 125, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com. This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors. Advertorial
children are taken care of in the event of a premature death. Funding Retirement - Set aside the things that are somewhat automatic, i.e., funding retirement, and put them on auto pilot. We make sure that we look at what will be needed for retirement and then apply that to the annual savings number needed. As long as we focus on hitting the target every year, then we know with a high degree of certainty that retirement will be taken care of. We understand that career switches, going up in income or down in income, or transitioning vertically from one company to another, will affect this number and is something we re-evaluate at least annually. College Funding - “Do I need to start saving now?” and “How much do I need to be saving?” The same thing applies here, where we want to make this an auto pilot item. Set up a college savings plan, and set the number or the objective to fit the scenario. For instance, is it public state school, is it private state school, is it private college, etc. Then, we apply this number to the amount that is automatically being contributed to the plan each year. If you plan and start saving today, you will be able to have a greater degree of confidence that your children’s college education will be paid for. The same applies to the first 12 years of education, depending on the type of school you plan to fund. The most important thing for this group of clients is their understanding of exactly what they have and how it impacts them now and in the future. Some couples manage all of their wealth together, while others manage each individually. We act as a facilitator to educate our clients on the decisions they’re making, allowing them to make financial decisions that are smart and well thought out versus emotional or “in the heat of the moment.” If some of these concerns and solutions or paths are of interest to you, please reach out. We’d be happy to set time to talk to you and really dig into the details of your situation to see how we can help. Please contact Peter Waldron to schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation. Call (925) 786-7686 or visit 3201 Danville Blvd. Ste 190, Alamo. Peter T. Waldron: California Insurance License #0E47827. Peter T. Waldron is a registered
representative and investment advisor representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a broker-dealer (member SIPC) and registered investment advisor, offering insurance through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc. and other fine companies. This information should not be construed as legal or tax advice. You may want to consult a tax advisor regarding this information as it relates to your personal circumstances. Advertorial
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
THE EYE OPENER
CONTACT LENS ADVANCEMENTS By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry
My patients are always asking me about “new technology” in contact lenses and if their prescription would work for contacts. Recent advancements in contact lens technology and manufacturing have made contact lens comfort and vision easier than ever. Depending on your prescription, eye health, motivation, and how often you want to wear contacts, there is likely a contact lens for you. Daily disposable contacts are now becoming the main modality among patients and doctors alike. This has been the focus of contact lens manufacturers recently, as most of the newest lens styles and materials that have been brought to the market have been dailies. For doctors, we like that patients are getting the healthiest option for contact lens wear. Due to the thinner lens materials and lens edges, initial comfort and adaptation is very quick. Patients enjoy the freedom of no solutions and cases, convenience, and cost which is very comparable to one-month disposable contacts because there is no solution or cases to purchase in addition to the contact lenses. From an eye health perspective, these are the best lenses for you because there is no build-up on the lenses, which can lead to decreased wearing time and possible infections. The other advantage is you can wear these lenses as much or as little as you like. If you want to wear them just for sports, recreation, vacation, or just going out to dinner, these lenses are the choice for you. These lenses can now be worn for most prescriptions and in most lens types. Daily disposables can be used to just correct your distance vision, for those with astigmatism, in multifocals and monovision, and in some color options. However, due to the convenience and health profile, most everyday wearers are wearing them every day. Outside of dailies, the newest contact lens material to be developed is silicone hydrogel. This base material is now being utilized by all major contact lens companies; each company has developed their own proprietary materials which accounts for some of the differences in stiffness, oxygen flow through the lenses, and patient comfort. Most of these lenses are now FDA approved for extended wear, however,
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 21
the time does vary for each material. Obviously, there are some potential health issues to the eyes that come along with sleeping in your lenses, so it is not for everybody; that can be determined at your exam and at follow-up visits. The new material makes the lenses firmer and allows for an average of a 4 to 6-fold increase in oxygen flow to the eye versus older materials. All types of lenses including multifocals, toric, and monovision are now available in this material. Most people enjoy the freedom these lenses give and the increased end-of-day comfort. If your eye receives more oxygen, it will be less fatigued and red at the end of the day. Toric contact lenses are now better than ever. If you have an astigmatism, that means the front part of your eye (the cornea) is more oblong-shaped, similar to an egg. Because the eye is not equally curved, a toric lens is needed to help you see well. These lenses are soft, and you care for them the same as any other lens. Toric contacts are now available in daily disposable and in the silicone hydrogel material. Finally, it is important to remember that contact lenses are medical devices and can cause eye health consequences if not worn and cared for properly. That is why annual exams are mandatory to ensure good vision and eye health. We will patiently work with you to determine which prescription and type of lenses would be best for you. Our goal is that your vision and comfort with your lenses is the best that it can be. Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at 820-6622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165 in Alamo. Visit our website at www.alamooptometry.com, and join us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @Alamo Optometry. Advertorial COMPUTER SERVICES, IT DESIGN & IMPLEMENTATION, IT INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT
Technology. Simplified.
Serving Bay Area businesses and residents since 2001
925-552-7953 helpdesk@pcioit.com www.pcioit.com
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 22 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
By Roger Smith, Alamo Improvement Association CONSUMER PROTECTION WEEK
March 5 -11 is National Consumer Protection Week (NCPW). NCPW is a coordinated campaign that encourages consumers nationwide to take full advantage of their consumer rights and make better informed decisions. The NCPW website offers a variety of different tools and services aimed at protecting consumers in fraud cases of banking, identity theft, technology, shopping, and more. They also post new scam alerts. To learn more about NCPW and how you can get involved, visit www.ncpw. gov. Also visit California Department of Consumer Affairs www.dca.ca.gov. Your personal information may be your most valuable commodity. It’s not only the key to your financial identity but also to your online identity. Knowing how to protect your information, and your identity, is a must in the 21st century. Find some tips for protecting it effectively at www.irs.gov/ uac/irs-security-awareness-tax-tips or State of California Department of Justice https://oag.ca.gov/idtheft. What can you do besides checking out the information for yourself? Please share the information from NCPW partners, IRS Security Awareness, California Consumer Affairs, and Department of Justice with friends, family, co-workers, and other people in our community. By sharing information about avoiding frauds and scams, identity theft, staying safe online, using credit wisely, managing debt, and other topics, you can help protect those you care about. Please do it this month!
ALAMO FARMER’S MARKET FRESH FRUITS, VEGETABLES AND GOOD HEALTH!
Randy Dotinga with HealthDay Reporter writes, “If you want to add years to your life, 10 daily servings of fruits and vegetables may be the best recipe you can follow, a new analysis suggests. The benefits appear to come through lower rates of heart attack, stroke, cancer, and early death. If everyone found a way to get 10 daily servings of produce, 7.8 million premature deaths would be avoided each year worldwide,” the British researchers estimated.
UNDERSTANDING SURGICAL WEIGHT LOSS
By Diane Kwan, MD
Karen is a 45-year-old mother of two who tells me she has been “chubby” since her first pregnancy. She says that she has been struggling to lose her baby weight for the last 15 years. There is no program she has not tried including Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, physician supervised metabolic programs, and even prescription medications. While she was able to lose weight, up to an impressive 80 lbs with the metabolic programs, the weight always seems to creep back up. Karen said, “Doctor, I’m tired of being overweight. I am worried because now I am on medicine for diabetes and high blood pressure. Can surgery help me?” Bariatric or weight loss surgery may be the solution for those who have been unable to lose their excess pounds through diet and exercise alone. While traditionally we have considered obesity a behavioral issue, we now know that it is much more complex than that. Genetic and environmental factors play a significant role as well. In fact, less than 10% of obese patients are able to maintain weight loss through diet and exercise alone. While surgery is not a cure, it is a very effective tool to assist with weight loss. Close to 300,000 patients undergo bariatric surgery every year in the United States. Weight loss surgery involves altering the stomach or gastrointestinal tract to restrict the amount of food the stomach can hold and to reduce the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food. All procedures are performed laparoscopically, meaning the surgeon uses thin instruments that only need a tiny incision to see and work inside the body which results in fewer wound infections and a shorter recovery time. There are several bariatric procedures to consider. Gastric bypass surgery creates a small pouch in the stomach that restricts how much food can be eaten, and reattaches the small intestine so food passes without being broken down and absorbed. Sleeve gastrectomy turns the stomach into a slender tube that limits the amount of food one can eat. Gastric banding places an adjustable, inflatable band
“Fruits and vegetables have been shown to reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure, and to boost the health of our blood vessels and immune system,” Aune said in a university news release. The results for 10 daily servings were a 24% reduced risk of heart disease, a 33% reduced risk of stroke, a 28% reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, a 13% reduced risk of cancer, and a 31% reduction in premature death risk. In their review, the researchers also found signs that the following types of produce seemed to confer the greatest benefits: apples, pears, citrus fruits, green leafy vegetables, cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower), and green and yellow vegetables (such as green beans, spinach, carrots, and peppers). “Most likely it is the whole package of beneficial nutrients you obtain by eating fruits and vegetables that is crucial in health,” Aune said. “This is why it is important to eat whole plant foods to get the benefit, instead of taking antioxidant or vitamin supplements (which have not been shown to reduce disease risk),” Aune noted. In total, the 95 studies the Imperial College London scientists analyzed included almost two million people. An excellent source for fresh fruits and vegetables for your diet and dining pleasure is the Alamo Farmer’s Market! They have the best and the freshest fruits and vegetables full of taste, vitamins, nutrition, and fiber that everyone needs in their diet. Make a visit to the Alamo Farmer’s Market part of your Sunday, and get your fruits and vegetables for the week. There is free and easy parking and friendly vendors (Ask them about how their crops are grown and harvested; they would like the opportunity to talk to you about the process). Alamo Farmer’s Market is open 9AM -2PM every Sunday.
AIA MEMBERSHIP
Alamo is a special community that all of our residents can be justifiably proud to call “Home.” Established in 1955, AIA’s mission is to “preserve the semi-rural character of Alamo,” the place we love to live. Consider becoming a member of our 501(c)(3) non-profit organization to preserve Alamo’s unique beauty and status. Please visit www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to Alamo residents, membership forms, and more. Now is the time to renew or become a new member of AIA. around the stomach to limit food consumption. Another option is the gastric balloon which offers a nonsurgical alternative. An inflatable balloon is placed into the stomach and filled with saline. The weight and size of the balloon gives the sensation of feeling full and restricts the amount that can be eaten. Many patients like this alternative because it does not involve surgery. Whichever procedure a patient decides on, results can be profound with lasting weight loss. Most patients lose weight quickly, maintain healthy body weight, and feel comfortable with their new lifestyles. Many patients are able to stop taking medication for obesity-related conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol. If you are thinking about bariatric surgery, join Dr. Kwan and other bariatric specialists at an informational seminar about surgical solutions for weight loss. The event will take place on March 22, 6:30-8:30PM, at the Walnut Creek Library. To register, please call (925) 677-5041 x272. Dr. Diane Kwan is a general and bariatric surgeon with 680Bariatrics, a division of West Coast Surgical Associates in Walnut Creek, Concord, and San Ramon. For more information, visit www.680bariatrics.com or call (925) 933-0984. Advertorial
CHROMATICA CONTINUED FROM PAGE 11
everyone’s part. Our musical journey over the past five years has covered nearly every conceivable type of choral music, focusing particularly on pieces that are not often performed by community choruses. I’m delighted to be directing an ensemble that consistently exceeds expectations. I think our audiences will be particularly pleased with this program as it highlights pieces that had a very enthusiastic response.” Chromatica now includes 26 singers. It has performed ten series of ticketed concerts in the East Bay, attracting large and enthusiastic audiences. Led by David Huff and accompanied by pianist Julie Rieth, it seeks to perform challenging choral works at a high level of professionalism. Tickets are $20 for adults and $10 for students. For tickets and to find out more about Chromatica, visit www.chromaticachorale.org. For a more personal look, you can find Chromatica on Facebook. Tickets for all concerts are also available at the door.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
LASER HAIR REMOVAL
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 23
Mindful Parenting Workshop
By Dr. Jerome Potozkin
Life is full of strange surprises, especially when it comes to hair. As people Sunday March 26; 1-5pm age, they usually end up with more hair in places they don’t want it and with less • decrease yelling and frustration •learn effective discipline hair in places where they do. Personally, I’ve noticed more “ear hair” and less • cultivate peace, calm and more joy • be more present • increase connection with your child • respond, not react hair on my head. Modern science is working to address both of these problems. While these are certainly not life or death matters, they do bother many people. Register now – space is limited. Check out website for more info We have come much further in finding ways to remove hair than to grow it. Joree Rosenblatt, L.M.F.T. License #93545 ~ 925.212.2996 Laser hair removal started to take off in the late nineties. There was huge www.mindfulnessandtherapycenter.com demand for this procedure, and it took off like a rocket. Lasers remove hair by emitting a beam of light that passes through the skin and targets the pigment or melanin in the hair. This light energy is converted to heat energy to destroy the hair follicle. The lasers pulse on and off so fast that, in theory, no heat is spread to surrounding skin structures. This minimizes the risk of scarring. Most lasers used for hair removal protect the outer layers of the skin by cooling. The laser may use contact cooling where the laser tip is chilled and comes in direct contact with the skin or with dynamic cooling where a cryogen or cooling spray hits the skin just as or before the laser fires, protecting the skin. This allows the laser to deliver more energy to the hair follicle while protecting the pigment in the epidermis or outer layer of the skin. The ideal candidate for laser hair reduction has light skin with dark hair. This scenario results in the maximum amount of energy destroying the hair follicle with minimal absorption by the outer layers of the skin. Darker skinned patients with dark hair can be successfully treated but will usually require more treatments and with more conservative energy settings. Unfortunately, lasers are ineffective in treating light colored hair or peach fuzz. Other technologies are being investigated to remove light colored hair, but they are still on the horizon. In our office, men and women typically seek treatment for different areas. Women usually seek treatment for any facial hair, armpits, legs, and bikini area. Men often seek treatment for hairy backs and shoulders. Most people will require at least three treatments spaced about eight weeks apart. Some will require a degree of ongoing maintenance. Cost depends upon how large of an area is treated. This is the ideal time to start treatment as most people notice the excess hair in the summer when they shed clothing. It is important to seek treatment in an experienced facility. As with any medical procedure, hair removal treatment is not without risk. If you have unwanted hair and are interested in laser hair removal, mention this article and call us to schedule a complimentary hair removal consultation. Dr. Potozkin is a board certified dermatologist who has been serving the local community since 1993. His fully accredited dermatological and laser facility is located at 600 San Ramon Valley Blvd, Suite 102 in Danville. He is accepting new patients. Please call (925) 838-4900 or visit www.Potozkin.com for more information. Advertorial
MENOPAUSE MATTERS
By Timothy Leach, MD, FACOG, CNMP
In last month’s Menopause Matters column, there was a typo on my part that should have said 30 thousand (not million) women worldwide have undergone MonaLisa Touch.
WHAT IS MONALISA TOUCH?
MonaLisa Touch was the first FDA approved CO2 laser (2015) specifically designed for use in the vagina. The laser energy stimulates a painless rejuvenation and restoration of genitourinary tissues to their premenopausal state. The procedure takes 2-3 minutes over three treatments six weeks apart and one yearly “touch up” treatment.
WHO IS A CANDIDATE FOR MONALISA TOUCH?
More than 50% of postmenopausal women experience vulvovaginal dryness, painful intimacy, and UTI like symptoms which constitute the “Genitourinary Syndrome of Menopause” (GSM). These symptoms are chronic and progressive and do not simply get better with time. In a national survey (The EMPOWER Survey) of approximately 2,000 menopausal women, 90% reported some degree of painful intimacy, and 70% reported bothersome dryness, and 50% of women reported never trying anything to relieve their symptoms. Approximately 7% of symptomatic women actively take hormones for GSM, which means that any untreated symptomatic woman is a candidate for MonaLisa Touch.
for MonaLisa Touch, and therefore it is not billable to insurance. Studies are currently comparing MonaLisa Touch to estrogen which may help get insurance coverage.
IF THERE ARE DIFFERENT DOCTORS OFFERING MONALISA TOUCH, WHY SHOULD I HAVE IT DONE WITH DR. LEACH?
I was the first physician in the East Bay to offer MonaLisa Touch and have the most experience in the East Bay. I am the only certified North American Menopause Society practitioner in the East Bay (menopause.org) and have a nuanced appreciation of how the MonaLisa Touch is one part of improving overall genitourinary health. A $100 donation (for every new patient) is given to the Cancer Support Community (cancersupport.net) in Walnut Creek whose partnership helps breast cancer survivors get the initial treatments for FREE. Donations in 2016 were $6,000. Patient testimonials can be seen on my website at leachobgyn.com. 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
Join Me for an Open House on MonaLisa Touch Saturday March 25, 10-11am Please register at (925) 935-6952 or simply drop in
WHAT ELSE DOES THE MONALISA TOUCH HELP WITH?
MonaLisa Touch can decrease both the number of times a woman gets up at night to urinate (nocturia) and the sudden urge to urinate (overactive bladder).
WHAT IS THE POTENTIAL VALUE OF MONALISA TOUCH COMPARED TO STANDARD TREATMENT?
Standard treatment with estrogen does not help everyone all the time. In scientific papers looking at patient compliance with estrogen prescriptions, long term use was 17%. Patients taking systemic estrogen replacement therapy can still have bothersome symptoms about 20% of the time.
WHY IS MONALISA TOUCH NOT COVERED BY INSURANCE?
While MonaLisa Touch fractional CO2 laser is approved for use, it is not the first line treatment. Estrogen has been approved for use for over 40 years and is considered the standard of care. There are no procedure codes
The “Good Old Days” are now!
Nationwide Financing on Commercial Property
Douglas Scott DRE#00859191 | Kevin Corstorphine DRE#01944908
805.845.5200
Kevin@alisonmortgage.com | www.alisonmortgage.com
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 24 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
Technology. Simplified. Since 2001
Residential | Commercial
Ask about our referral program!
COMPUTER SERVICES: PCs/Macs/Tablets/Smartphones • Upgrades • Maintenance • Networking • Data Recovery • Virus/Malware Removal • Back-up Solutions • Email/Hosted Exchange • Internet of Things IT DESIGN & IMPLEMENTATION: IT Strategy Development • Network Design • Infrastructure Assessment • Cloud Services INFRASTRUCTURE MANAGEMENT: Proactive Desktop, Server, & Network Monitoring and Management • Office Move Management • Disaster Preparedness • Monthly Service Agreements
925-552-7953 helpdesk@pcioit.com www.pcioit.com
ADD A LITTLE SPICE TO YOUR LIFE By Jewel Johl, MD
drugs like cyclophosphamide and doxorubicin that are commonly used to treat various cancers. Overall, the development of turmeric for clinical use needs further investigation due to its inherent poor absorption, rapid metabolism, complex mechanistic profile, and largely preclinical data. Preliminary data suggest effectiveness of a topical turmeric-based cream for reduction of radiotherapy-induced skin reaction in patients with head and neck cancer. A number of clinical trials are currently under way to further explore both the chemopreventive and/or therapeutic role of curcumin in various cancers, especially colorectal cancer. Curcumin can potentially increase the risk of bleeding, especially in patients taking blood thinners, so caution and consultation with your doctor is advised before you consider taking it. Even though there are ongoing clinical trials to explore the effectiveness of curcumin in the prevention and treatment of cancer, it may not hurt to add a little spice to your life. Dr. Johl is a Board Certified Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group. He has expertise in treating all forms of cancer and blood disorders and has a particular interest in the treatment of gastrointestinal cancers, colorectal cancers, and benign and malignant hematologic diseases. Dr. Johl sees patients in Pleasant Hill TM and Brentwood. For more information, call (925)677-5041. Advertorial
Curcumin is an active ingredient of turmeric, a spice widely used in curries. In many Southeast Asian countries it has been consumed in the diet on a daily basis for centuries. This daily consumption not only speaks for its safety but has been said to be responsible for the low incidence of colorectal cancer in these countries. Ancient Chinese and Indian Ayurvedic medicine literatures have described the usefulness of turmeric in the treatment of a variety of ailments such as joint pain, wound dressing, liver and biliary disorders, anorexia, and sore throat. There is a growing interest in curcumin’s ability to fight cancer. Even though it has many biological activities, it is not fully understood exactly how curcumin exerts these effects. From laboratory experiments, it has been deduced that substances in turmeric (called curcuminoids) prevent inflammation by inhibiting the molecules that are involved in inflammatory reactions. Curcuminoids may protect the body in a few ways: they enhance the activity of an important detoxifying enzyme, and they also act as antioxidants by neutralizing free radicals (which can cause DNA damage). Research studies show that turmeric prevents the development of kidney damage from toxins. Turmeric also stimulates the flow of bile in the gastrointestinal tract. In lab experiments, rats treated with turmeric were protected from colon, •Cars •Trucks stomach, and skin cancers. Turmeric prevents replication of tumor cells when applied directly to them in the laboratory, but it is unknown if this• Trucks • Vans • Boats • Real•Vans Cars Estate •Boats •Real Estate effect occurs in the human body. Curcumin, a curcuminoid, has shown bioLive Operators on hand 7 days a week logical activity in pancreatic cancer patients, and there are ongoing studies ~ Live Operators Tax deduction • AllTMtransfer documents handled to test its effect as an addition to current cancer treatment. However, recent on hand 7 days a week. ~Tax deduction experiments have suggested that turmeric might interfere with the activity Free pick-up • Running or not in most cases ~All transfer documents of some chemotherapy drugs in breast cancer, so the question remains Cars • Trucks • Vans • Boats • Real Estate handled whether this spice is helpful or harmful during chemotherapy. Curcumin is Live Operators on hand 7 days a week ~FREE PICK-UP ~Running or not in Tax deduction • All transfer documents handled known to interfere with cytochrome P450 enzymes which are important for Free pick-up • Running or not in most cases most cases metabolism of various medications, and it may interact with chemotherapy www.thefallenheroes.org
DONATE YOUR CAR! DONATE YOUR CAR!
888-694-5250 888-694-5250
www.thefallenheroes.org
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
FIGHTING CANCER WITH EXERCISE
By Michelle Brown
Nearly two million Americans will be diagnosed with some form of cancer this year alone, and 14 million are living with it. With statistics like these, it is very likely that we or someone close to us is affected by this disease. It is becoming common for oncologists and other health professionals to prescribe exercise to patients for the critical role it plays in the fight to regain whole health. Whether someone is a survivor or just starting the fight, it is essential to be cleared by the treating doctor before starting an exercise program. Among the many benefits exercise provides, it has been proven to decrease side effects of cancer by improving mental state and mood, balancing blood cholesterol, promoting circulation, and allowing for more restful sleep. As well, exercise is associated with increased survival rates. The type of exercise that is best for the cancer patient is dependent on the origin and stage of the disease. Having said this, doctors say that any exercise that doesn’t produce negative symptoms is totally acceptable. If exercise is new to the person diagnosed, it may be best to work with a Certified Personal Trainer (CPT), at least initially. A CPT with a lot of experience working with cancer patients is well equipped to create a program that caters to the exact needs of the client. If there are special concerns or contraindications, a trainer with a Cancer Exercise Certification is a great option. The Cancer Exercise Training Institute is the best place to find a qualified professional with a Cancer Exercise Specialist (CET) degree. Some insurance providers cover disease specific exercise, so make sure to talk to your agent and get the most out of your plan. Group exercise or exercise with a friend, especially in an outdoor environment, can be a great ally in the fight. At Gumsaba we have helped many people move through cancer, modifying drills as needed and encouraging fighters to do whatever they can as long as their doctor approves and it feels right for them.
A PHYSICIAN FIRST
By Dr. Barbara Persons, MD, FACS
Recently, I had a discussion with someone who was considering career choices. They confided in me and asked if they should pursue being an investment banker or a plastic surgeon. To many, these aspirations might seem similar: two careers, each offering the hope of success and prosperity. Shouldn’t we all pursue such dreams? I offered the best advice I could. “I know very little about investment banking,” I said, “but from my perspective as a plastic surgeon, I believe there is another choice you must make first.” I explained that long before mastering the field of surgery, a person must first choose to become a physician. I explained that this path means caring for people and finding joy in it. In the field of medicine--increasingly so as the taxonomy of healthcare broadens--we are given many options. We may choose to be a dermatologist or an obstetrician. Some choose radiology, and others, like me, are drawn to surgery. In the end, however, being a physician comes first. No matter what specialty we choose, we become, and should always remain, doctors. Any medical student will tell you that the moment they entered training, family and friends began asking for counsel. I am sure that most of my colleagues will remember those first years of medical school: everyone asked us for advice, and we probably gave it, thinking we already knew so much. That kind of enthusiasm shouldn’t change over the years, but unfortunately it sometimes does. So when I was asked for career advice, I found myself answering a bigger question. Is it possible to dedicate oneself to something truly loved? And does that choice include a commitment to service and compassion? The answer is yes. For me, going into medicine was a calling. I became a physician for two reasons. The first was simple: a sense of duty. The second is one I hold dear: the wonder of forming relationships with people in their time of need. Some might describe it as a sacrifice; holidays, weekends, and nights are dedicated to helping patients. But it has never felt like a sacrifice to me. Being a physician is honorable,
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 25
A group of supportive people has its own wonderful benefits; the added love and encouragement helps people maintain consistency. And it just feels great to know how much others care for us and want to help us win the fight. Precautions should be taken for those exercising while undergoing chemotherapy, especially in group class settings. Sharing equipment is a risk, so avoid it. Bring your own mat, weights, yoga blocks, and the like to class. Keep your equipment clean. Always wash your hands and face before and after class. These are habits that any person attending fitness class with a suppressed immune system should have. With doctor approval the group class is a go, but do take necessary measures to maintain immune system function. If moderate exercise is not possible, mindful practices like meditation, gentle yoga, Vini yoga, and Tai Chi are options that can be incredibly beneficial for someone dealing with cancer. These practices are sometimes offered for free to the community. Reaching out to locals who are sharing the cancer fight experience is a great way to find out what resources are available when it comes to mindful practice. A cancer diagnosis is one of the scariest and most challenging situations life presents, but it doesn’t have to stay that way. Even late stage cancer has been beat. Most survivors feel that the fight they underwent increased their self worth and made them realize how much they really love their lives. Of course it’s expected to have fear of this disease, but that fear does not mean we can not fight. Exercise. Eat well. Rest. Ask for help. Then maybe someday you can turn around and give a hand to a person who feels scared by a diagnosis in their life. Michelle Brown is an ACE Certified Medical Exercise Specialist, ACE Certified Personal Trainer, Spartan SGX Coach, Martial Arts and Self Defense Expert, TRX Level 2 Certified Trainer, Certified Trigger Point Rehabilitation Therapist, SCW Yoga Level 2 Instructor, and has been a competitive Vegan Athlete since 1999. Michelle has been helping her clients surpass their goals for almost 20 years. Her company Gumsaba offers outdoor fitness programs, corporate group fitness, personal, small group and sport specific training. Join Gumsaba for a FREE CLASS at one of our amazing outdoor locations. Visit gumsaba.com and click get started to redeem your free class with promo Advertorial code FIGHTCANCER www.gumsaba.com. and it offers me purpose. It gives me great pleasure, and I go home feeling good about what I do. Sometimes my job is challenging, but the most difficult moments pale in comparison to what patients feel when they are in pain or chronically ill. In my experience, many doctors forget the idea of what it feels like to be a patient. Separating ourselves can be a way to keep an even keel, but this risks alienating the very people we are trying to help. It is tempting to believe that work is better left at the office. “Don’t take your patients home with you,” I have been told. And although it is important to maintain a good balance between my personal and professional life, I do, ultimately, take my patients home with me. I think about patients in my car as I drive home, and I look forward to seeing them when I wake up in the morning. Medicine is part of who I am, and I don’t think of it as a job or occupation. Rather, it is something I have chosen because I believe in it. This perspective has actually helped me be a more energetic surgeon and a more complete person. It is thus that I think those of us with a stronger sense of calling are more resilient to the challenges of our profession. We enjoy what we do. It informs us, shapes us, and makes us better people. Becoming a board certified plastic surgeon took more than a decade of training. But along the way, I was a doctor to my patients. I find comfort in the fact that simply caring for people is something I still do on a daily basis. Over the years, I have watched our healthcare system transform and policies evolve. Many of us feel swept up in the changes; we are not sure what to predict and how it will affect us. I hope that whatever system emerges will allow doctors to follow their calling, as I have done. I hope that if we have been called to serve, we will be able to do it. How will that happen? Who among us should choose this path? These are difficult questions. In the end, however, I have begun to recognize that even the most complex questions have a simple answer. For me, the answer is taking care of my patients and finding joy in it. I am so grateful to have found my calling, for it is one that inspires and rewards me in equal measures. I am a surgeon, but I am also a physician; both are roles I am honored to fulfill. I look forward to meeting you at my practice soon. Dr. Barbara Persons is a Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc. located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She may be reached at 925-283-4012 or drbarb@ Advertorial personsplasticsurgery.com.
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 26 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
IS NEUROPATHY ON YOUR NERVES?
By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC WHAT IS PERIPHERAL NEUROPATHY?
Peripheral Neuropathy is a condition in which there is damage to the peripheral nervous system, which transmits information from the brain and spinal cord to the rest of the body. This can result in pain, tingling, loss of feeling, and inability to control muscles. As with any other condition, there is no “one size fits all” remedy for those suffering from this malady, and treatment may vary depending on the cause and severity. However, many individuals find relief using natural remedies. Peripheral Neuropathy is a condition that affects people in every walk of life. It is estimated that 20 million Americans and 60% of diabetics suffer from this disorder. There are hundreds of different kinds of neuropathy, the symptoms of which include burning, tingling, weakness, numbness, paralysis, and dull to excruciating pain - especially in the limbs. Although many neuropathies have no known cause, neuropathy is often associated with another condition such as diabetes, HIV, shingles, toxins, autoimmune disorders, neurological conditions, carpal tunnel syndrome, and malnutrition. Statin (cholesterol) drugs and chemotherapy can also cause neuropathy. While medications can sometimes help with the symptoms, they cannot be relied upon to restore the health of the nerves. Most often the drugs that treat neuropathy leave the sufferer feeling intoxicated and hopeless to lead a normal active life.
UNDERSTANDING THE NERVOUS SYSTEM
Blackhawk TMS
Cutting Edge Treatment for Depression Without Medications ArE You Doing ThE SAME Thing ovEr AnD ovEr ExpECTing A DiffErEnT ouTCoME? ThE onLY SErviCE offEring DEEp TMS in ThE Tri-vALLEY
Call for a free consultation
FDA Approved
925-648-2650 4185 Blackhawk Plaza Circle Danville, CA 94506
Several insurances accepted VISIT OUR WEBSITE OR FACEBOOK PAGE
www.blackhawktms.com
Nerves carry the electrical signals that allow us to move, feel, breathe, digest, detoxify, respond to our environment, and much more. Nerves are the electrical wiring of the human body. Plain and simple, if the nerves do not work, the body will not work in some capacity. It is also important to understand that unlike other tissues, the primary blood supply to nerve tissue is actually located WITHIN the nerve itself. So, if a nerve becomes impinged or compromised, so does the blood supply to the nerve. Without proper blood supply, the nerve does not receive the energy and nutrition that are needed for the nerve to heal. Over time, neural impingement leads to a painful chronic condition called neuropathy.
POPLAR SPECTACLES OPTOMETRY LOCATED IN THE SAFEWAY PLAZA
Comprehensive Dilated Eye Exams Cataract Evaluation, Macular Degeneration, Diabetic Retinopathy, Glaucoma Evaluations
Contact Lens Exams Daily, bi-weekly, monthly, colored
Prescription Glasses and Sunglasses In many cases, we are able to make your glasses in our office with our On-Site Lab
Adult & pediatric patients welcomed
OPEN MONDAY TO SATURDAY
Most vision insurance plans accepted
Monday -Thursday: 9am-6pm Friday - Saturday: 9am-4pm
(925) 202-2846 We invite you into our conveniently located office next to Peet’s Coffee & Katrina Rozelle
To learn more about our office visit WWW.POPLARSPECS.COM
HOW CAN I HEAL MY NEUROPATHY?
1. Class IV laser therapy. Ending the pain caused by neuropathy requires reversing the cause of nerve damage. Class IV laser therapy is an excellent method for this because it is presently the only modality that can both reduce pain and heal tissue simultaneously. Laser therapy creates an optimal healing environment that reduces swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain. As the injured tissue returns to normal, function is restored and pain is quickly relieved. In other words, there is NO MORE Pain, NO MORE Numbness, NO MORE Tingling, and NO MORE Burning! 2. Test for nutritional deficiencies. A single nutrient deficiency can contribute to any number of disorders of the nervous system, including neuropathy, migraines, and even Alzheimer’s. We use SpectraCell Labs patented micronutrient test to measure the function of selected vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other essential micronutrients within your white blood cells. Standard blood tests do not measure if the nutrient is properly functioning within the body. With the proper combination of holistic therapies, it is possible to heal your nerve pain and in the process feel more alive and energetic than you have in years. Depending on the type and severity of neuropathy, we have witnessed patients begin to get relief after the first visit and with continued care receive complete relief long-term. Dr. Niele Maimone of Align Healing Center in Danville has been active in natural health & wellness since 1999. For more information or to set up a consult, call (925) 362-8283 or visit www.alignhealingcenter.com. Advertorial
HEARING LOSS ASSOCIATION
Come to meetings of the Diablo Valley Chapter of Hearing Loss Association of America at 7pm on the 1st Wednesday of the month at the Walnut Creek United Methodist Church located at 1543 Sunnyvale Ave., Walnut Creek Education Bldg., Wesley Room. Meeting room and parking are at back of church. All are welcome. Donations are accepted. An assistive listening system is available for T-coils, and most meetings are captioned. Contact HLAADV@hearinglossdv.org or (925) 264-1199 or www.hearinglossdv.org for more information.
editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com
MARCH 2017 • ALAMO TODAY • PAGE 27
Exceptional medical, surgical, and cosmetic care for healthy, beautiful skin.
Dedicated to your Individual care.
Shanny A. Baughman, M.D.
(925) 362-0992 | www.alamooaksderm.com
Accepting New Patients
3189 Danville Blvd, Suite 130, Alamo
Join us on Friday, March 24 from 12-1PM for an informal cosmetic discussion. Special pricing on treatments when you attend. RSVP to 925 362-0992, space is limited.
YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST
TEEN WEIGHT LOSS THE HEALTHY WAY By Linda Michaelis RD, MS
Many local teens that want to lose weight and look their best have been referred to me. I feel qualified to counsel them because of my own personal weight problem as a teen as well as 25 years of teen counseling. Majoring in nutrition was a huge help to my success with weight loss, and nutrition education is what teens need to lose weight and keep it off. Let me tell you about my teen Diane. Diane attends high school and plays soccer. She is certainly active, but because of her busy schedule she ends up eating most of her food at the end of the day. For breakfast she ate Honey Nut Cheerios, and the rest of the day she would consume smoothies, Think Thin and Cliff Bars, as well as yogurt. Diane was eating a low fiber, low protein, and high sugar diet. At night with her family she would eat double servings of meat and starches and often skip the veggies. She would snack at night on bowls of cereal which she thought was a healthy choice. I calculated that at night she was consuming at least 1,500 calories. In my initial session with Diane, I evaluated her food diary and showed her where her meals were lacking in protein and fiber. I taught her how to read food labels for serving size, calories, fat, protein, fiber, and sugar. I always explain to my clients the food label is backwards. We also do not use the metric system and do not go by grams. I note protein is listed as the last item when it should be first along with dietary fiber. I continued to teach Diane that one ounce of protein is equal to 7 grams. Now she could see that her Honey Nut Cheerios has a skimpy 2 grams of protein. We compared her Cherrios to Kashi Go Lean cereal that has 13 grams of protein or about 2 ounces of protein. When you add a cup of milk, you get an additional ounce of protein and a breakfast with 3 ounces of protein. I was adamant with Diane that she must consume at least 8
ounces of protein and 15 grams of fiber before dinner. I asked Diane to bring in a list of favorite foods, and with that list I set up a meal plan for her. For breakfast Diane agreed to have oatmeal or Kashi Go Lean with some fruit. For mid-morning snack, Diane liked the idea of an apple with peanut butter, beef jerky, or a pack of almonds. Diane was open to trying Trader Joe’s fresh grilled chicken strips with a cup of mixed beans and salsa or a leftover chicken breast with veggies and brown rice. Now she is making it a routine to take the second serving that she used to have for dinner and save it for lunch the next day and add veggies that she likes. When Diane came homes from school before soccer practice, she likes the idea of having a hearty lentil soup or even oatmeal. She has traded in all of her smoothies for fresh fruit and is drinking more water than ever. She has eliminated bars and now enjoys low sugar Greek yogurts. Diane reported after our meeting that she went off to practice at 5PM feeling better than ever with high energy. She no longer came home famished, and she can control her portions and does not feel the need to snack endlessly at night. She is happy with a fudgesicle or creamsicle for dessert. Diane and I worked together for several sessions and discussed social and restaurant eating with friends and family. I taught Diane not to go to a party hungry and fill up on unhealthy junk food that is usually available at teen gatherings. When it is a buffet, I taught her to first scan the choices and set up a plan instantly in her mind and keep to it. She makes room for dessert and eats less starches and fat. Diane has lost 10 pounds in one month, and we are still working together via phone and e-mail. Her goal is to lose 10 more pounds before the summer. Most insurance companies cover nutritional counseling. Please visit www.LindaRD.com for more information about your nutritional concerns, call (925) 855-0150, or e-mail me at lifeweight1@yahoo. com. Advertorial
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
www.yourmonthlypaper.com
PAGE 28 • ALAMO TODAY • MARCH 2017
The Combs Team Professionals You Can Count On
Nancy
This is Rockcliff Country
Joe
Call the Combs Team
®
92 5 -9 8 9 -6 0 86 www.TheCombsTeam.com
ALAMO REAL ESTATE SALES: PRICING TRICKY IN A HOT MARKET
It’s a little bit early in the year to tell much about our current market especially with the unusually wet conditions we are experiencing. That said, I have held homes open nearly every weekend since the beginning of December and I can report that buyers are out in droves. Hopefully, their presence is a reasonable predictor of another bright year in Alamo Real Estate. Our current market is still suffering from a terrible lack of inventory with only 29 homes listed as active. Pending properties are high with a total of 77 properties listed as under contract. From August 1, 2016 to February 21, 2017, a total of 85 properties were sold in Alamo. The average days-on-market listed for active properties is 37. For Pending listings the average days on market are listed as 45 and for sold properties 44 days. This is a very hot market with average sales price sitting at $1,800,408 and median sold price at $1,645,000. During the peak of Alamo Real Estate in 2007, prior to the crash, the average price in Alamo hit $1,529,000. The average home in our Alamo market is up about $271,408 from the peak. That’s about an 18% increase in 10 years. Not a very large average return relatively speaking, only about 1.8% per year. So, even though the market is hot today, it really hasn’t kept pace with real estate’s historical average of 3% per year. Had the market matched that pace, the Alamo average would stand at more than $2,000,000. Because in its make-up, average price can contain some very high numbers and some very low numbers, it is useful to break the numbers down a bit, so I’ve included a simple bell chart to illustrate how our Alamo market breaks down. Moving from left to right on the chart we can see that the bottom 25% of homes sold at an average price of $1,210,182 and a median price of $1,270,000. In the center the middle 50% of properties sold at an average price of $1,702,087 and a median price of $1,647,500. To the far right we can see that the top 25% of Alamo home sales begin at $2,100,000. The median price is $2,450,000 and the average price is $2,615,381. At first glance it seems clear that determining the price for a home sitting in the middle 50% is far less of a challenge than pricing at the margins. In the middle, average and median price are separated by a mere $55,000 while at the upper end the difference is about $165,000. If only it were that simple. When we dig into the detail in the numbers we discover that nearly $500,000 separates the highest priced home from the lowest priced home sold within each of the three separate groups on the bell curve. So moving into 2017, how does a seller determine the right price to sell their Alamo home and how does a buyer determine what price to offer? If the seller uses average price and the buyer uses median price, it seems likely that there is a better chance of making a deal on those properties sitting in the middle 50% than at the upper end. However, because of the manifold differences among individual properties, neither measure is necessarily useful. Correctly pricing Alamo Real Estate for sale today involves both an element of science (the numbers) and art which comes from experience with all types of properties selling within the Alamo market. Only solid judgment based upon extensive local market experience and correctly choosing the right comparative homes recently sold can help with this. We will gladly share our experience with you. Trying to figure out your next move? Need numbers and answers to your fix up questions to make your decision? Nancy and I will be happy to provide you with a personal consultation, including a multi-dimensional analysis of your home’s current value, to help you figure it out. No charge and no pressure just our honest opinions. Please call 925-989-6086 or send me an email joecombs@thecombsteam.com.
Alamo Jones Ranch
Award Winning Realtors
Downsizer’s dream home. A perfect “10”. Three bedrooms, two bath. Priced to sell $915,000.
Executive home 6,521 sq. ft. with views of Mt. Diablo. Two master suites, au pair unit, office, exercise salon, wine room. Priced to sell $2,849,000
Top 5% in Sales Production
West Side Alamo Single Story
Coming Soon - Danville Sycamore
Alamo Oaks Custom Home
Single Level 4 bedroom on .86 acres. Backs to the Iron Horse Trail. Priced to Sell $1,199,000
Lovely Updated 4 bedroom on beautiful level lot with pool. Call for Details!
The epitome of 21st century architecture. 4 bedroom and office First level master & 2 family rooms. Priced to Sell $2,089,000.
Danville Single Story
P
IN D N E
G
Data presented in this column is based in whole or in part on data supplied by the Contra Costa and Alameda MLS service and other quoted sources. Joe Combs, Nancy Combs, The Combs Team, J. Rockcliff and the MLS service do not guarantee the accuracy of this information. DRE #0144125.
J. Rockcliff Realtors 15 Railroad Ave., Danville CA. 94526