2021 MARCH ~ Alamo Today & Danville Today News

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March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 1

& MARCH 2021

VALLEY STITCHERS AND FIBER ARTISTS GUILD: BOYS TEAM CHARITY, ALAMO-DANVILLE

By Fran Miller SHARING SKILLS, CREATING FRIENDSHIPS

By Jody Morgan

Valley Stitchers and Fiber Artists Guild (VSG) remains as flexible as the fibers that form the many types of textile-related creations they craft. VSG welcomes anyone interested in sharing skills, learning from others, and fostering appreciation of both practical and purely aesthetic pieces produced by needles plied with ingenuity. Turning COVID-19 restrictions on in-person gatherings into innovative opportunities, VSG invites members to enjoy informative monthly online programs, participate in fun challenges, and admire one another’s distinctive designs.

On October 1, 1967, the Oakland Tribune announced: “New Stitchers Guild to Meet.” The following day women from Evolution of the VSG logo reflects the Guild's ability to stay across the Diablo Area in step with changing times. Image courtesy of VSG. gathered in Pleasant Hill for the initial meeting of VSG. Established as an outgrowth of a class given by Vesta Vetter at the Walnut Creek Civic Arts Center along with ladies studying with Vendla Wilkins at the Acalanes Adult Education Center, the group invited others interested in fostering the art and craft of stitchery to join them. The original charter expresses the intention of setting up “a program which will create and promote a continuous learning situation.”

Monthly general meetings with speakers, workshops, auxiliary interest groups, and dissemination of information on sources of supplies, exhibits, and lectures as outlined in the founding charter are all part of VSG’s ongoing mission.

No limits are placed on what needlework arts may be included. Sub-groups form and disband as fashions and enthusiasms evolve. Vesta, a weaver, worked artistically in fiber. Vendla’s expertise was in embroidery and surface embellishment. Over the A hint of trendy “Word Salad” years, VSG members have explored every technique figures in VSG's 2018 banner. that caught their fancy, including macrame, dyeing, Image courtesy of VSG. fabric painting, batik, soft sculpture, basketry, plaiting, off-loom weaving, knotless netting, Seminole quilting, felting, fabric photo transfer, machine and hand embroidery, tie-dye, button-making, clothing embellishment, folk-art clothing, bead work, knitting, crochet, and doll-making. VSG encourages pursuit of any form of fiber art a member wants to study, practice, or teach.

See VSG continued on page 15

Local Postal Customer

PRSRT STD U.S. Postage PAID Permit 263 Alamo CA

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Both nationally and locally, National Charity League has long provided a philanthropic outlet for its mother/ daughter duos, providing girls in grades 7 through btc members donate their time to the Nephrotic Syndrome 12 the opportuni- organization. ty to serve a greater community good. It took a while for the boys to catch up, but now they have a similar organization to call their own, boys team charity.

The boys team charity, Alamo-Danville league was established in 2016 by two moms involved with the National Charity League who felt they needed a similar experience for their middle-school-aged sons. None existed, so they

See Charity continued on page 18

CURBSIDE MEALS FOR SENIORS

The Danville Senior Center is working with Contra Costa County CC Cafe to offer a curbside frozen meal program for seniors. Any senior over 60 years old can participate, no residency or other qualifications are required.

Five frozen and two refrigerated meals are available weekly. Menu items rotate and can be heated in an oven or microwave. Each participant must fill out a NAPIS (County intake) form with some basic demographic information.

Pickups will take place weekly on Fridays between 10:30AM and 11AM at the Danville Senior Center, located at 115 E. Prospect Ave. The suggested donation is $3/meal or $21/week.

For more information, or to participate, call 925-314-3430 or email seniors@danville.ca.gov.

The Editors Serving the communities of Alamo, Diablo, and Danville

Volume XXI Number 3

3000F Danville Blvd. #117 Alamo, CA 94507 Telephone (925) 405-6397 Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher Editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News Instagram:@AlamoandDanvilleToday

Volume XII Number 3

The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do not necessarily reflect that of The Editors. The Editors is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.

PAGE 2 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

BOULEVARD VIEW

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By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor

Recently, a daguerreotype and ambrotype collector reached out to a couple of our local historians, inquiring about a photo he purchased several years ago. Based on the technology of the photo, he was able to date it to being taken between the years 1857-1862. Looking closely at a couple small signs in the photo, the collector believes the subject is of an early Alamo post office.

At first our local historians dismissed the photo as it doesn’t match with our known history of the post office. However, in those days the post office moved around a lot and a possibility exists that this could be one of the first known photos taken in Alamo, and those pictured are early pioneers of the community.

For as long as I can remember, I’ve loved to sleuth. The internet has created an endless pond of exploration. As old materials become scanned, the treasure trove of information available is mind-blowing.

Between the collector, our local historians, and myself, we have been able to determine several things.

There is a small sign at the right of the picture which appears to show the name ‘Howard’. In a search of old Contra Costa Gazette newspapers, a John Rezon Howard advertised (at least in 1860-1861) that he was a physician and surgeon located in Alamo. In addition, it appears he was also an agent for the newspaper.

On the left side of the picture, there is a flier that reads, “All Known/J.C. Howard/Ambrotype.”

An 1860 census shows John B. [sic] Howard, an M.D., living in “Township 2, Contra Costa, CA” along with his wife, Jane C. who is listed as a photographer along with a one year old child, Averetta, and a 29 year old school teacher Mary E. Crawford from Alabama, which interestingly is where John was born.

In September 1857, the San Joaquin Republican announced in a small piece, “NEW AMBROTYPE GALLERY. - We notice that two ladies, Mrs. [Amanda] Genung and Miss Cary, artists of established merit, have opened rooms at the corner of Hunter street and the Levee, for the purpose of taking ambrotypic and other likenesses. We commend them to the patronage of the public of Stockton.”

Only three months later on December 24, 1857, Jane [printed as Jennie W. Cary of Downieville in the newspaper notice] married Dr. J. Rezon Howard. A week after that, her partner Genung announced the closing of their short-lived Stockton studio. By January 28, 1859, the Howards were living in Alamo, as indicated by a newspaper article on Dr. Howard tending to a suicide victim in town.

A document shows the birth of daughter Averetta in 1858/1860, possibly in Alamo, and a son, Cary Howard, born May 5, 1862, in Alamo. A third child, Edward Averett, was born January 23, 1864 in San Francisco.

While the information is good, it is not conclusive that the photo shown is truly taken in Alamo, CA. If you are interested in sleuthing along with us, it doesn’t make sense to go down paths already covered. I’d be happy to send a couple documents that have been put together in trying to get to the bottom of this mystery. You can email me at editor@yourmonthlypaper.com.

For further exploration of our local community’s history a century and more ago, visit www.museumsrv.org, or get lost in the collection of old photos on the Contra Costa County Historical site. Visit www.cocohistory.org, click on the photo tab at left, and then type in a city name or other search word...I recommend setting aside a few hours to transport yourself back in time!

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March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 3

What’s Your Home Worth?

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Coldwell Banker is a licensed real estate broker and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only. Information is compiled from sources deemed reliable but is subject to errors, omissions, changes in price, condition, sale, or withdraw without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footages are approximate. Exact dimensions can be obtained by retaining the services of an architect or engineer. This is not intended to solicit property already listed.

CAMP PARKS:

WHEN WAR AND NATIONAL SECURITY CAME TO THE SAN RAMON AND AMADOR VALLEYS

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is happy to announce that Steve Minniear, historian for the town of Dublin,CA and past president of the Dublin Historical Society, will be returning with a free virtual presentation on Thursday, March 18th at 11:30AM. Steve’s presentation is entitled “Camp Parks: When War and National Security Came to the San Ramon and Amador Valleys.”

Today, the area around Camp Parks is a growing residential community, bordering a BART station. It is hard to imagine that at one time its boundaries spanned from San Ramon to Dublin and played a major role in both local history and national history. Since 1942, hundreds of thousands of US armed forces personnel lived and trained at this base. It is fair to say Camp Parks played a key role in WW2, involving the war in the Pacific.

To attend this free online presentation, please visit museumsrv.org and go to the “Events” section, or call 925-837-3750.

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville. The Museum is presently closed due to Covid19 county restrictions.

JOIN AAUW FOR INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

Celebrate women shaping a more equitable future, and join in on the American Association of University Women’s (AAUW) upcoming online presentation from the Danville/Alamo/Walnut Creek and Benicia/Vallejo branches.

The presentation will take place Monday, March 8th from 5 – 6:30PM. Opening remarks will be spoken by Eleni Kounalakis, Lt. Governor of California, followed by members sharing their inspiring stories. The line-up includes Elizabeth Patterson - More sustainable future for our environment, Claudia Schwarz- Fighting global hunger, Asha Bajaj – Improving women’s health, and Teresa Cheung - Breaking barriers in chemical engineering.

To register for the free event, visit https://daw-ca.aauw.net.

POLICE OFFER ‘EXCHANGE’ ZONE Gopher/Mole Removal DANVILLE Residents who purchase items via online services such as Craigslist now have a designated neutral ‘Exchange Zone’ in the upper parking lot of the Danville Town offices to conduct their business. Signage has No Poison Tri-Valley Trapper

925-765-4209

been installed, and the Danville Police Department has designated parking spaces at the Town of Danville offices, 510 La Gonda Way, for residents to conduct transactions in a constantly video-recorded space. With proximity to police headquarters and video recording, the goal is to have an atmosphere of safety and assurance for would-be buyers while dissuading criminals from using online merchandising for criminal purposes.

To learn more, contact Sargent Ron Hoekwater at (925) 314-3700 or rhoekwater@danville.ca.gov.

PAGE 4 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

FOOD DONATIONS NEEDED

Food insecurity for many is becoming more dire as the coronavirus pandemic continues. Stepping up and helping out are members of St. Timothy’s Church, located at 1550 Diablo Rd., Danville. The members have been holding bi-monthly food drives to support the Monument Crisis Center (MCC).

MCC is a community-based non-profit family resource center which offers food, resources, and referrals to low-income individuals and families in order to help them become stable and secure in the community.

St. Timothy’s Church food drives will be held the second and fourth Sunday of each month from 2-4pm for the foreseeable future.

Of particular need are tuna, peanut butter, canned fruits and vegetable, pasta, canned meats, rice, beans, oatmeal, soups, ethnic foods, and baby food. In addition, pet food and diapers are appreciated. Items in glass containers cannot be accepted.

Monetary donations can also be made directly to MCC via www.monumentcrisiscenter.org/donate. Your contributions are deeply appreciated.

Learn more about the drives at www.sainttimothysdanville.org.

SRV GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

The San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society (SRVGS) was organized in 1985 to provide its members with resources, assistance, and educational opportunities that help them successfully research their ancestry. The group publishes a monthly newsletter and offers monthly meetings of small groups with common interests to discuss their specific areas of research. SRVGS also provides resources ranging from a large selection of reference books, to information on local genealogical libraries. Classes are also offered for the beginning researcher and those interested in genetic DNA. You are invited to join their Tuesday, March 16th, 10am ZOOM meeting with a presentation titled “How Do I Know What I Don’t Know -- Fast Tracking your Genealogy Education.” National speaker and author, Thomas MacEntee will be the speaker. Thomas has a certificate in Genealogical Research from Boston University and is a member of the Association of Professional Genealogists.

To become a member of SRVGS, visit srvgensoc.org and click on the “Join SRVGS” tab on the left side of the Home Page. To attend as a guest, please email your request to president@srvgensoc.org.

DANVILLE WOMEN’S CLUB

UPCOMING EVENTS

Please join the members of the GFWC Danville Women’s Club at the following upcoming event.

SATURDAY, APRIL 24TH~ PAPER AND DISK SHREDDING

For $15/box and/or hard drive, bring your banker’s boxes of old papers and hard drives to the GFWC Danville Women’s Club parking lot, located at 242 W. Linda Mesa in Danville, at 9AM for shredding.

This event is a Patty Hart Memorial Scholarship Fund event, providing scholarships to graduating seniors from Tri-Valley high schools.

DANVILLE EGGSTRAVAGANZA

The Community Center will host an updated Eggstravaganza celebration for children ages 3-10. Preregister at www.danville.ca.gov/recguide and then come to the Center on April 3rd, and pick up the essentials for hosting an egg hunt wrapped up in a take-home “Bunny Basket.” Each basket will contain treasure filled eggs, egg-themed crafts, and other festive delights.

Additional socially distant festivities will be hosted rain or shine on the Town Green. Bring your camera and take your little one’s picture with the Spring Bunny.

For more information, call 925-314-3400.

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ALAMO WELCOMES, DEPUTY LANCE WALLACE

Deputy Lance Wallace took over as Alamo’s dedicated resident deputy on January 1st, working out of the Valley Station in Alamo Plaza. The Alamo deputy is funded by the P-2B Police District and is a full-time deputy assigned solely to Alamo.

Deputy Wallace was raised in Danville and attended Alamo Elementary, Stone Valley Middle School, and Monte Vista High School. It is a thrill for him to be working in the area and giving back to the community he grew up in.

Deputy Wallace’s extensive law enforcement experience and background began in Oakley as a Deputy Reserve Sheriff. After completing the Napa Valley College Basic Police Academy, he was promoted to Deputy Sheriff. He served in Custody Services before being assigned to patrol in Oakley. His duties included traffic enforcement and apprehending impaired drivers. He also served as a Field Training Officer where he mentored and supervised new deputy sheriffs.

Deputy Wallace also has experience in the Sheriff ’s Office Marine Patrol Unit. He has been assigned to the Valley Station since 2018.

Deputy Wallace has one daughter who is currently a sophomore at Syracuse University. When he is not patrolling the area or serving the community, Deputy Wallace is an avid golfer.

Please be sure to say “Hi!” if you see Deputy Wallace around town or at one of the three schools where he is the school resource officer. Deputy Wallace is proud to serve the residents and community, and he looks forward to meeting you.

ROTARY CLUB OF ALAMO TO SPONSOR FIELD OF DAISIES AND WAVE TO THE EASTER BUNNY

SATURDAY, APRIL 3RD

The Rotary Club of Alamo will sponsor a “field of daisies” stroll along with a “wave to the Easter Bunny” on Saturday, April 3rd. The event takes place at Livorna Park (at the intersection of Livorna Rd. and Miranda Ave., Alamo) from 9-10AM. It then moves on to Hemme Station Park (at the intersection of Hemme and Danville Blvd., Alamo) from 10-11AM and ends at Andrew Young Park (1471 Jackson Way, Alamo) where it will be from 11AM-noon.

Come by any one of the parks to see the Easter Bunny and enjoy all of the wonderful daisies purchased by businesses and individuals to support the projects of The Rotary Club of Alamo, including the RotaCare Free Medical Clinics in Pittsburg and Richmond, the Bay Area Crisis Nursery, the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano, Choice in Aging Adult Day Health Care Center, Meals on Wheels, school dictionaries for third grade students at Rancho Romero and Alamo Elementary schools, the Warm Coat Drive, the Wheelchair Foundation, roadside clean-up and beautification on Stone Valley Road, Danville Boulevard, and the 680/Stone Valley Interchange, Charter sponsor of Cub Scout Packs 53 (Alamo Elementary School) and 800 (Rancho Romero Elementary School), multiple water harvesting projects in Tanzania, a solid waste management project in Tiruchengode, India, and a global grant to purchase four kidney dialysis machines and develop an educational and training program for two hospitals in Thailand. Alamo Rotary appreciates their support and asks that you patronize their businesses.

Many residents have also purchased a daisy. Their daisies are for a loved one, to remember an event, or to commemorate an achievement. These folks have also bought a daisy because they care about people less fortunate than they are.

They also want to partner with Alamo Rotary in making a difference in the world.

If you would like to purchase a daisy ($50-100) to honor someone or publicize your business, please contact Joan Grimes at joangrimes@msn.com.

The Rotary Club of Alamo was founded on May 7, 1971, and will celebrate its 50th Anniversary this year. The Club is currently meeting on Wednesdays at 12:15PM via Zoom. You can find the Zoom link for the meeting on the Club’s Facebook page @RotaryClubofAlamo.

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March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 5

Celeste Pacelli is ‘the consummate professional.’

Curious to learn what your home is worth?

As the nation’s most innovative luxury brokerage, Compass provides me with powerful technology to predict market trends, confidently evaluate properties, and achieve the greatest return.

The good news? Interest in your neighborhood is currently high among buyers, with listing estimates to match.

Contact me today for a complimentary property valuation.

Celeste’s clients say: “We couldn’t have sold our home as fast with multiple offers...

“Celeste Pacelli has an intuition about the market that can be trusted.

“Her handling of both transactions exceeded our expectations.

without Celeste’s direction, expertise, and pushing us to meet deadlines. Getting our home on the market coming out of the holiday doldrums was key to the wide reception we received and our price range was on the very high end.”

- J.J.

She keeps herself extremely well informed on the market and there never seems be a home on the market that she is not aware of. The transactions of both selling and buying our homes were the best we’ve ever experienced. Celeste Pacelli begins the relationship as your Agent but at the end of the journey she is your friend.”

- J.K.

We had the pleasure of working with Celeste to both find a new house and list our home for sale. Our new home search was extensive and took well over a year; we never felt any pressure to make a selection until we were ready. We continue to recommend her to anyone looking to sell or buy property.”

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See my 66 Zillow reviews!

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Broker Associate 925.395.1511 celeste@celestepacelli.com celestepacelli.com DRE 01862387

Another Year – Top 1% of Agents in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties!

Compass is a real estate broker licensed by the State of California and abides by Equal Housing Opportunity laws. License Number 01527235. All material presented herein is intended for informational purposes only and is compiled from sources deemed reliable but has not been verified. Changes in price, condition, sale or withdrawal may be made without notice. No statement is made as to accuracy of any description. All measurements and square footage are approximate.

PAGE 6 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

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ASSISTANCE LEAGUE’S FUNDR AISER AT DANVILLE SIDEBOARD

The dedicated member volunteers of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley invite you to give back to your community while enjoying homemade food prepared from scratch, using natural organic and sustainable ingredients supplied from local farmers, ranchers, and purveyors at Sideboard restaurant in Danville.

Mark your calendars for a fundraiser to be held on Wednesday, March 10th at Sideboard restaurant, located at 90 Railroad Ave. in Danville.

From 10AM to 7PM, the restaurant will offer outside and takeaway dining and curbside delivery. All COVID precautions are in place. Please remember to mention that you are ordering on behalf of Assistance League of Diablo Valley. To place a pickup order, call 925-984-2713. Menus are available to peruse at www.sideboard.co/danville.

Sideboard will be generously donating 20% of all March 10th sales, both eat-in and pick-up, as well as gift cards sales for the day.

When two community-minded organizations come together, everyone thrives. Proceeds from the event will help fund Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s ten hands-on philanthropic programs that help improve the lives of those in our community who are vulnerable.

To learn more about the organization, visit assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley.

SONS IN RETIREMENT SAN RAMON VALLEY

Looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining Sons in Retirement San Ramon Valley Branch 128. There are monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. Additionally, members have lots of fun participating in a variety of activities including golf, hiking, biking, bocce ball, movies, cooking, finance, reading, computers, and more.

Many other activities such as travel, dine outs, excursions, baseball games, and holiday parties include spouses, friends, and guests.

NOTE: Due to current COVID regulations, the SIR128 March meeting will be a virtual event using Zoom.

The guest speaker will be former NBA coach, Jim Eyen. Just a few of Jim’s experiences include coaching the 1990 NBA All-Star game and a trip to the NBA finals with the Lakers and Magic Johnson. He has coached with the Lakers, Clippers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and Portland Trail Blazers In addition to a career coaching NBA teams, Jim has also served as an international consultant to clubs in the Netherlands, Germany, China, and Japan.

The presentation will be held Wednesday, March 17th at 11AM. If you’re interested in accessing the virtual meeting as a guest, please email membership@sir128.com.

To learn more about the Retirement branch, please visit www.SIR128.com.

ALAMO DANVILLE NEWCOMERS CLUB

Are you a new or long-time resident of Danville, Alamo, Blackhawk, or Diablo? Or are you newly retired or an empty nester interested in making new friends and participating in various social activities? The Alamo Danville Newcomers Club is a woman’s organization whose purpose is to enrich the lives of its members and their families in a social manner. Check out all the club has to offer by visiting www.alamodanvillenewcomers.com.

During this difficult time of COVID, it is even more important to have a way to meet new friends. The group is currently doing all that they can to offer new and different ways to meet new people, socialize, and have fun while staying within the COVID guidelines. We will resume with socially distanced gatherings as we are able. In the meantime, some groups are continuing via Zoom.

An upcoming virtual “Information Coffee” meeting will be held March 30th, at 10AM, via Zoom. This is a great way to find out more about the club. To learn more or participate in the Coffee, email alamodanvillenewcomers@gmail.com.

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

RIDES NEEDED FOR SENIORS AND VETERANS

Mobility Matters is a nonprofit agency that provides free rides for ambulatory seniors and veterans who cannot take other forms of transportation. The group is looking for volunteers that are willing to help out the community by driving homebound seniors and veterans to medical appointments, and to get their Covid-19 vaccine shots. Most volunteers drive once every week or two.

Please contact David Benet at (925)284-2215 or david@mobilitymatterscc. com for more information about volunteer opportunities. You can learn more about Mobility Matters at www.mobilitymatterscc.com.

HELP CURB THE SPREAD OF SALMONELLOSIS IN SONGBIRDS

The Lindsay Wildlife Experience and rehabilitation hospital in Walnut Creek is recommending all bird feeders be taken down until at least April 1st to help curb the spread of salmonellosis that has appeared in much larger numbers this year. Please visit www.lindsaywildlife.org/general/ help-curb-the-spread-of-salmonellosis-in-songbirds for more information.

VETERAN SERVICES BRING THE “OFFICE” TO YOU

With the COVID-19 County Health Order making it more challenging to get services from government offices, the Contra Costa County Veterans Services Office is removing barriers by opening a virtual office space.

The virtual Veterans Office can give you close to an in-person experience.

Veterans can learn about and apply for benefits, access VA health care, receive referrals for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder therapy, and much more.

Visit the office website at www.contracosta.ca.gov/vets during open office hours for one-on-one assistance. Hours of operation are Mondays through Thursdays from 9am to noon and 1pm to 4pm, and on Fridays 9am to noon.

Staffing the virtual office are Veterans Service Manager Sidney Jones, an Air Force Veteran, and Veteran Services Representative Buck Carmichael, a Marine Corps Veteran. Both have long-time experience connecting vets to critical services.

For more information, please call the Veteran Services Office at 925-313-1481.

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March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 7

PEANUT BUTTER CAN

MAKE A MESS

OF RECYCLING, TOO. >

WIPE OR LIGHTLY RINSE YOUR CONTAINERS AND PLASTICS, AND PREVENT CONTAMINATED RECYCLING. Empty. Clean. Dry. When you follow those three words you’re helping to keep our recycling valuable.

Bottles, cans and plastics that are dirty with leftover food or liquids can contaminate valuable recycling.

Do your part. Keep it clean and recycle smart!

recyclesmart.org

PAGE 8 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

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PUBLIC SAFETY IN ALAMO

By County Supervisor Candace Andersen

In these turbulent and uncertain times, public safety is one issue that has been a growing concern among my constituents. As a result of nationwide volatility, many residents are paying closer attention to where their tax dollars are going when it comes to policing.

For Alamo residents who reside in unincorporatAlamo can no longer sustain ed Contra Costa County, police services have long our dedicated deputy at current funding levels. been a high priority. Police services are provided by • Our Alamo deputy budget runs a deficit of $50-70,000/year. the Contra Costa County Sheriff ’s Department which is led by Sheriff David • This parcel tax would be an increase from $18 to $67/parcel/year.

Livingston. Traffic enforcement is primarily the responsibility of the California Highway Patrol (CHP), although the Sheriff ’s department does assist with this.

To increase the level of police services for Alamo residents, the P2B Police • If Measure K does not pass with a 2/3 majority, Alamo will lose its District was created in 1970 as a result of a voter initiative. P2B covers the only dedicated deputy. west side of Alamo, south of Hillgrade Avenue, all neighborhoods off of • This is not the time to cut police services to our town.

Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue, the Stone Valley Road neighborhoods up to Round Hill Country Club on the north side of Stone Valley, and all the Mail-in ballots will be sent in early April and must be received at the way to Monte Vista on the south side. There are 3,400 homes in the P2B area.

County by election day, May 4, 2021, to be counted.

A dedicated Alamo officer is currently funded through the P2B parcel tax, which is currently $18 per household. The parcel tax was approved by Alamo Learn more at www.alamodeputy.org. voters back in 1981 and has never been increased. Any increase in the tax For questions, or to assist the committee, amount requires voter approval. contact Christy Campbell, clcampbell14@gmail.com.

The current officer funded by the P2B property tax works four days per Paid for by Keep Alamo’s Deputy committee. week, ten hours per day. The Alamo officer takes on many responsibilities, including patrols, crime investigation, basic traffic enforcement, and community outreach. The Alamo deputy also serves as the school resource officer for Rancho Romero and Alamo Elementary schools, and Stone Valley Middle School.

It is important to note that beyond the dedicated Alamo officer, the Sheriff ’s department provides additional support. Two officers are available 24/7, but their area is very large. It goes from the Tassajara Valley to Marsh Creek.

To ensure that the P2B funds are appropriately spent, there is the P2B/Alamo Police Services Advisory Committee (APSAC). It serves as an advisory body to the Contra Costa County Sheriff and to my office. Alamo residents and the P2B Committee would like to see their tax dollars go even further. For many years, the P2B parcel tax was able to support two full time deputies. Over the past 40 years, the cost to pay for and maintain a police vehicle, along with increases in the salary and benefits of an officer has risen, and they had to cut back to only one Alamo deputy.

The cost to have one dedicated Alamo officer is roughly $350,000 per year and includes salary, monthly squad car payments, fleet charges, maintenance and upkeep, medical insurance, training, liability insurance, overtime, and a number of other County fees and expenses.

Currently, the P2B budget runs a deficit of $50,000 to $70,000 per year. For the last year, Alamo has been able to work with the Sheriff ’s office to help cover this deficit. This is not a long-term solution to the budget problem, and absent an increase in the P2B tax, it will likely be necessary to eliminate having a full-time officer just for Alamo.

Recently, there has been growing support for raising the parcel tax from $18 to $67 per year for households and $200 for multi-family residential properties and businesses. The proposed change will be on a May 2021 all-mail ballot which will be sent to all Alamo property owners within the P2B district.

There are several Alamo neighborhoods that are not included in the P2B area.

Round Hill has its own police district called P5. The P5 District recently approved an increase to their parcel tax in 2019 to support more policing in Round Hill and the surrounding areas. Round Hill residents now pay $470 per year to fund two dedicated officers. The P5 officers will assist in other areas of Alamo in an emergency. However, some other Alamo neighborhoods are not in either police district; this includes Alamo Glen, Stone Valley Oaks, Monte Sereno, Whitegate, and Bryan Ranch. Because these neighborhoods could also benefit from enhanced police services, the P2B (APSAC) Committee is considering whether at a future date these voters should be asked if they would like to join the P2B district.

There is also one other police district called the P6 District, which was formed in 1983 and covers unincorporated parcels throughout the entire County except for Kensington. The discretion of how these funds are spent lies with Sheriff David Livingston, who ensures that they are also used for the benefit of Alamo residents.

For any questions related to this article or any other Contra Costa County matter, please contact my office at 925-957-8860 or email me at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us.

COMMISSION VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT

The Town of Danville is looking for residents interested in serving on one of several commissions seeking new volunteers. City Clerk Marie Sunseri said the following commissions are in the process of accepting applications for two and four-year terms beginning July 1, 2021.

Youth Representatives – One Arts Advisory Board; One Parks, Recreation and Arts Commission (2-year terms) Parks, Recreation and Arts Commission – One regular, one alternate member (4-year terms) Senior Advisory Commission – One regular member (4-year term) Arts Advisory Board – One regular member (4-year term) Poet Laureate – One position (2-year term) Contra Costa Transportation Authority Citizen Advisory Committee – One representative (4-year term) County Connection Citizen Advisory Committee - One representative (2-year term) Applications are available on the Town website at www.danville.ca.gov/Commission-Recruitment. The deadline to file an application is 4PM on Wednesday, May 12th. Applicants have the option to interview with the Town Council on June 8th or June 15th.

There was a little neighborhood excitement as a group of cows escaped For additional information, contact City Clerk Marie Sunseri at (925) 314-3401 or msunseri@ from Mt. Diablo at Macedo Ranch recently and were seen running free down Wild Flower Place! Photo by Beth Lowe. danville.ca.gov.

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March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 9

DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP W H E R E R E A L E S TAT E I S S T I L L P E R S O N A L

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1327 LAVEROCK LANE, ALAMO FINISHED 28,740 SF CUT LOT W/UTILITIES AT STREET OFFERED AT $999,000 MARY PISCITELLI & PETER GILLIS | 925.765.9095

1777 LUCILLE LANE, PLEASANT HILL 3 BEDS, 2 BATHS, 1,492 SF, 0.17 ACRE LOT

CALL AGENT FOR PRICE KORY MADGE | 925.366.9899

OFFERED AT $898,000 DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047

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80 LARK PLACE, ALAMO 5 BEDS, 5 BATHS, 6,570 SF, 0.80 ACRE LOT

535 BANYAN CIRCLE, WALNUT CREEK 3 BEDS, 3 BATHS, 2,183 SF, 0.26 ACRE LOT

1135 RIVER ROCK LANE, DANVILLE 3 BEDS, 2.5 BATHS, 1,492 SF, 2,330 SF LOT

SOLD FOR $5,900,000

3203 STONE VALLEY ROAD, ALAMO 4 BEDS, 2.5 BATHS, 2,489 SF, 0.81 ACRE LOT SOLD FOR $2,125,000

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330 MILLER COURT, ORINDA 5 BEDS, 4.5 BATHS, 4,355 SF, 0.73 ACRE LOT

2043 MOHAWK DRIVE, PLEASANT HILL 4 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 3,137 SF, 0.32 ACRE LOT

3343 NUTMEG LANE, WALNUT CREEK 4 BEDS, 2.5 BATHS, 1,781 SF, 0.22 ACRE LOT

225 SHORELINE COURT, RICHMOND 2 BEDS, 1 BATHS, 869 SF, CONDO

SOLD FOR $3,415,000

SOLD FOR $1,555,000

SOLD FOR $1,150,000

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MARY PISCITELLI & PETER GILLIS 925.765.9095 925.765.0629

MEREDITH & BONNIE KUMMELL 925.984.1344 925.980.9952

SCOTT & FONIA HUMPHRIES 925.298.2249 925.998.4444

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©2021 The information herein was obtained by sources deemed to be reliable by Dudum Real Estate Group. Dudum Real Estate group has not independently verified the information contained herein and therefore, assumes no legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyer should investigate any matters or items disclosed, identified or about which they have concerns to their own satisfaction. DRE Lic. 01882902

PAGE 10 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

CATCH UP ON SOME “Zs”

MARCH INTO SPRING

By Jaime Kaiman, Monte Vista High, sophomore

As March approaches, you can start to smell the fragrance of the flowers in your backyard again. The sun shines just a little brighter, and the sky is painted a light blue color. The air begins to warm up ever so slightly with each day. All of this happens because we’re moving on from winter, and on to spring!

Usually, when spring comes around, you could expect to see kids playing around on a jungle-gym in the playground, or maybe even picnics in the local park with friends and family. You may also see teenagers riding in their cars with their windows down and driving with their best friends on a fun road-trip for spring break. As we all know, a lot of these everyday activities you would typically be doing or seeing in spring are going to look different due to the Coronavirus pandemic.

Recently, I have been working hard to learn the rules of the road in order to get my driver’s permit. I am looking forward to getting it as it will give me a whole new sense of freedom that I haven’t had before! My friends have also been taking Driver’s Ed courses. Some have already gotten their permits, and some already have their license! For all of us, driving is going to be a lot different this year. From the way we take the tests, to driving around with passengers, everything has changed. Even though there are a lot of alterations, it doesn’t change how excited I am to be able to drive!

As spring break comes nearer, we will be spending it a lot differently than usual. For me, it’s a little disappointing that my friends and I won’t be able to enjoy nice spring weather in-person with one another. Although that is something we will miss, my friends and I love to fantasize and brainstorm about fun spring-break plans we could all do together in the future. It’s always nice to have something to look forward to!

Lastly, because of Covid-19, picnics with family and friends all gathered together won’t be able to commence. This is a bummer, but there is an alternate way to do this. If you can, set up a nice picnic blanket in your backyard, and have a nice meal with your immediate family or roommates. You could also call up your friends, and have a nice virtual picnic with them.

Overall, as we enter March and eventually enter spring, common activities we used to do during this time will be altered. I will definitely be missing a lot of these, and I know a lot of other people who will be, too. Let’s get creative, and look on the positive side of every situation to ensure a nice March and a safe, fun spring!

AAUW SCHOLARSHIPS FOR DANVILLE, ALAMO, WALNUT CREEK WOMEN

APPLY NOW!

The American Association of University Women - Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch (DAW AAUW) offers scholarships to local women to help them complete their academic degree programs.

To be eligible, you must be a female US citizen. Applicants must be starting their third year at an accredited four-year college or university or have been accepted at an accredited college to pursue an advanced degree (masters, doctorate, or post-doctorate).

The minimum scholarship award that will be granted is $1,500. Awards will be granted June 2021.

For a description of requirements and to apply for a scholarship, visit https:// daw-ca.aauw.net/local-scholarships. Applications are due by March 12, 2021.

THE GHOSTS OF TAO HOUSE

The characters of Eugene O’Neill’s plays come to life in a series of short films celebrating the words of O’Neill, the history of Tao House, and the natural beauty of the surrounding Las Trampas wilderness. View these virtual vignettes on the web, Facebook, and Instagram.

Eugene O’Neill and his imagination lived at Tao House from 1937-1944. O’Neill’s characters sprang from his imagination, so his characters lived with him at Tao House as well. Maybe they never left…

Learn more about the films and ways to support the Tao House and the Eugene O’Neill Foundation at www.eugeneoneill.org.

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MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal

Spring is almost here, and Monte Vista (MV) is starting to buzz with a little activity after a long Covid winter. Students in our Special Day classes and in two specific learning pods have returned to campus during the school day. We are looking forward to the coming weeks and a potential shift to the Red Tier, and a return to campus for our students in the Hybrid Model.

After-school activities have really ramped up.

Cheerleading, baseball, softball, football, band, and choir are all hosting afternoon camps, and cross country, swimming, diving, tennis, and golf have all started their seasons. Cross country recently saw their first competition – a visit to Amador Valley and a win for both varsity men and women. It is great to see the Mustangs back in action.

On February 17th, MV Leadership hosted another Swag Day, and it was great to see the numbers of students driving through to get their MV t-shirts, sweatshirts, and other materials. Thanks to our Leadership students, ASB Leadership teacher Tommy Greenless, freshman Leadership teacher Chris Connor, and MV Health teacher Stacy Brix for leading this successful event. In addition, Mr. Connor, Ms. Brix, and MV math teacher Cara Varon are starting after-school groups that are focused on getting our current 9th graders onto campus as many of them have not had the opportunity to really be on campus yet. Since we are still in the Purple Tier, these groups will be very small, but we are hoping to include as many students as possible.

As the year moves on, there is increased concern about what sort of endof-the-year events will be happening at MV, in particular graduation. In alignment with our other district high schools, we are committed to some form of in-person graduation contingent upon what Tier our county will be in come June. Therefore, all of our planning will aim to address all three potential tiers – Purple, Red, or Orange. This same approach will apply to any other events that we plan for this spring.

At the end of February, MV’s incoming class of 2025 attended our first ever virtual Freshman Parent Night. Participants enjoyed a wide variety of virtual performances from many of the MV programs, and learned about class registration and graduation requirements from MV’s counseling team. Despite the challenges we have faced with the Covid pandemic, we were able to share the great things about the MV community. A huge thanks to MV’s Counseling Department, our PTSA, and the many programs and organizations that supported the event.

As always, I would like to thank the MV community for their generous support.

It has been a long year, and we hope that things keep moving in a positive direction.

SAN RAMON VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL

By Liz Pagano, Interim Principal

San Ramon Valley High School was pleased to welcome a new Assistant Principal in February when Nicole Chaplan joined our team. Nikki has worked in SRVUSD since 2005. She has served both as an English teacher and Teacher on Special Assignment at Monte Vista High School, and then as an Assistant Principal at Pine Valley and Iron Horse Middle Schools. She is a fierce student-advocate and is passionate about literacy education. Welcome, Nikki!

We are thrilled to re-open some of our athletic programs for the first time since last March. Currently, cross country, golf, tennis, swimming, and diving are all going strong. If the number of cases of COVID-19 continue to drop in our county, baseball, softball, track, and girls lacrosse won’t be far behind.

At the end of February, we mark “100 Days Until Graduation” with the Class of 2021. This year’s drive-through event is different but just as exciting for this class who has such a bright future ahead of them.

Believe it or not, we are already gearing up for next year. Our staff is hosting information nights for current students and “Building Bridges” events for the incoming Class of 2025. Please check our website for more information.

Slowly but surely our campus is coming to life this spring. Hearing students practice for marching band and hearing the click of a baseball bat on a ball are encouraging sounds that I hear around campus in the afternoons. I look forward to seeing more Wolves on campus in the coming weeks.

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FLUTE LESSONS THROUGHOUT COVID AND AFTER By Karen Van Dyke

Aspiring musicians, whether enrolled in music lessons at the onset of COVID or not, currently have two excellent resources working in their favor: the ability to take on-line music lessons, and a creative outlet during these challenging times through expression and development on our instrument. Budding music students who planned to begin flute lessons this fall with the start of school but didn’t because of home learning are in luck; they can still do so! Lessons via Zoom and other virtual conference platforms have proven to be very effective for starting or carrying on flute studies for students of all ages and levels of advancement.

I am pleased to be able to accept new students in my Danville flute studio in an on-line format, until in-person lessons become safe, and thereafter at my home studio. Lessons cover tonal work, technique, musicianship, interpretation, performance skills, and sight reading through examination of the classical solo repertoire. Lesson curricula are custom planned depending on the age and goals of the student. All ages and levels are welcome. All-state band, college music major/ minor hopefuls, school band students in need of formal instruction, and total beginners thrive in my studio. Student who have been enrolled in Zoom lessons since last March have exhibited marked improvement.

Recently relocated to Danville from San Jose, I am a lecturer in the Music Department at Stanford University, where I founded the highly acclaimed Stanford Flute Ensemble over two decades ago. In addition to my work at Stanford, I maintain an active and versatile career as a private flute teacher, freelance orchestral and chamber musician, and, for the last 26 years, Director of Northern California Flute Camp, an international summer program held in Carmel Valley (www.flutecamp.com) for students ages 12-18. In my 35 years of private teaching, my students have occupied the flute sections of all-state, county, and area youth ensembles; they have won competitions; and numerous graduates of my private studio have gone on to major in music at top music schools.

For further information on lessons or to schedule an introductory Zoom lesson, please email kvandyke@stanford.edu, or visit www.karenvandykeflute.com. Advertorial

March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 11

Branch Out & Gather Local Lore ~ Lucky Charm Treasure Hunt all March ~ Tao House tea and ghost talks ~ Irish Friendship benefit basket for Eugene O’Neill Foundation ~ Artisan special events weekly 391 Hartz Avenue, Danville

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Diablo Magazine’s “Best Place to go Treasure Hunting”

DANVILLE ALAMO GARDEN CLUB

The Danville Alamo Garden Club would like to invite you to their monthly meetings, where they will share their knowledge and love of gardening.

Monthly meetings are held on the second Thursday of each month and are currently presented via Zoom.

The meetings feature an inspiring and educational guest speaker and program.

Please visit www.DAGC.us to find detailed information about the monthly program, activities, and contact information.

To contact the Membership VP, click on “About DAGC” then “About Membership.” The group looks forward to meeting you!

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ANGIE CLAY JIM COLHOUN JAMIE CONNORS

MARISA COX RUTH EDDY TERRYLYNN FISHER

CATHY BAIGENT BRETT BARNES KAAREN BRICKMAN OLIVER BROWN KIM CERDA DAVE CHRISTIE SHEILA CHRISTIE PAMELA & DON COLOMBANA JOE DAJANI BELINDA DELGADO

JOHN FONDNAZIO PETER GILLIS KAREN GUARISCO ADAM HAMALIAN DENISEN HARTLOVE CHERYL HATA MARTY HENDREN JOHN & CANDI HOYLE FONIA & SCOTT HUMPHRIES HEIDY HURST

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C L U B

TINA FRECHMAN VERONICA HIDALGO BRYAN HURLBUT

BRANDON KERSIS LORI LEGLER MATT McLEOD

PRESIDENT’S CLUB SHERRY HUTCHENS KAREN IVANKOVICH MEREDITH & BONNIE KUMMELL ALEX LAGO CHRISTINA LINEZO ALAN MARKS AMBER NEUMANN JESSICA PAVONI SUZY PECK MARY PISCITELLI

EMANUEL SAKKIS KIM SEFTON JOHN SEFTON LESLIE SHAFTON LINDSEY SINDAYEN STUART STEELE ANASTASIA STEPHANOPOULOS LISA TICHENOR BONNE WERSEL TERESA ZOCCHI

Dudum Real Estate Group has not independently verified the information contained herein and therefore, assumes no legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyer should investigate any matters or items disclosed, identified or about which they have concerns to their own satisfaction.

PAGE 12 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

ST. ISIDORE SCHOOL

By Carol Bender, Principal ACT WITH INTEGRITY

In March, we recognize the monthly gospel value of INTEGRITY. The quality of being honest and having strong moral principles is how we strive to guide our students with the choices they make at each age level. By setting expectations and holding students accountable, they learn that their conduct is an example of their character, and their decisions have consequences. Explaining this concept to children can be challenging, but we have seen the positive impact this can have, and it’s worth the effort. Raising good people is essential to the future which is in their hands.

THE SEASON OF LENT

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11 Critical Home Inspection Traps to be Aware of Weeks Before Listing Your Danville, Alamo Home for Sale Danville-Alamo - According to industry experts, there are over 33 physical problems that will come under scrutiny during a home inspection when your home is for sale. A new report has been prepared which identifies the eleven most common of these problems, and what you should know about them before you list your home for sale.

Whether you own an old home or a brand new one, there are a number of things that can fall short of requirements during a home inspection. If not identified and dealt with, any of these 11 items could cost you dearly in terms of repair. That's why it's critical that you read this report before you list your home. If you wait until the building inspector flags these issues for you, you will almost certainly experience costly delays in the close of your home sale or, worse, turn prospective buyers away

altogether. In most cases, you can make a reasonable pre-inspection yourself if you know what you're looking for, and knowing what you're looking for can help you prevent little problems from growing into costly and unmanageable ones.

To help homesellers deal with this issue before their homes are listed, a free report entitled "11 Things You Need to Know to Pass Your Home Inspection" has been compiled which explains the issues involved.

To hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1844-941-0941 and enter 1003. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Get your free special report NOW to learn how to ensure a home inspection doesn't cost you the sale of your home.

During this liturgical time in our Catholic faith, we are solemn as we quiet ourselves to reflect on This report is courtesy of The Jackson Group-EXP Realty DRE #01763819. Not intended to solicit buyers or sellers currently under contract. Copyright © 2019 the presence of the Lord, for 40 days, in preparation for Easter Sunday and His resurrection. For the SAN RAMON VALLEY CHRISTIAN Lenten Season, our 8th-grade class provides our community with daily written reflections. These reflections allow students to share from their viewpoint ACADEMY By Jamie Westgate, Principal how Lent impacts their daily life. Our junior high writing teacher thoughtSometimes I playfully share that overseeing a fully guides our students through this process of writing, and inspiring them school is a bit like running a circus. There are thrilling academically and spiritually. highs and lows, moments of unexpected surprise, a wild and restless audience, and many laughs due to SOMEWHERE...OVER ST. ISIDORE th a host of clowns. This year, we added the challenges The 39 Annual St. Isidore School Auction, “There’s No Place Like Home,” th PM of a pandemic to our carnival of activities, but overall will be held virtually on Saturday, March 27 , from 6-7:30 . This year’s event we’ve learned “the show must go on.” is free for all to attend, so spread the word! Registration is available on our This past month, our 3rd grade students participated website, www.stisidore.org. The online auction will run from March 15 - 26 and feature wonderful items, gift baskets, wine, restaurant gift cards, and local in their annual “famous American” assignment. We had to get creative this services. The night of the event will be fun for all, with a live auction for vacation year, so each child spent time researching a citizen from our country’s history getaways, sports tickets, and more. We genuinely appreciate your support and who made a significant impact on our nation and put together a graphic book project. Not only did our students learn a lot about U.S. history, but they learned hope you will join us online! that some of our most notable leaders endured extreme hardship; this reminder REACHING OUT TO OTHERS is timely after a year full of national challenges.

For the last five years, St. Isidore School has partnered with the Kids Against Our 8th grade class historically performs a play as its “last gift to SRVCA.” Hunger organization to reduce the number of hungry children in the USA We weren’t about to let COVID-19 stand in the way of this special project! and starving children worldwide. The charity ships meals to starving children Not only does this gather our 8th graders together for an opportunity to bond and families in over 60 countries. This year, our efforts to assist those in need with one another, but it gives our student body the chance to see personalities will look different than in the past as we cannot gather together to assemble come to life on the stage. This 8th grade class is full of zest, and our school meals. However, we believe it is important to honor our past efforts by ex- community is excited to see their production at the end of March. plaining the charity’s mission to the students and by hosting a donation-free We have been blessed to have students on campus full-time since last October, and I credit an incredibly dedicated group of teachers and staff for dress day with proceeds going to those in need.

May this month be one of good health. We wish you a happy St. Patrick’s Day making this possible. This past month, Parent Teacher Fellowship (PTF) expressed their gratitude with their annual Teacher Appreciation Week and that the luck of the Irish be with you throughout the year! activities. Treats, boxed lunches, gifts, and homemade cards were given to all.

I am so proud of a team who was wholeheartedly supportive to in-person learning, even though it required faith, perseverance, and resilience. I’m also grateful for the generosity of our parents and their efforts to acknowledge this Serving Alamo & Danville Since 1979! hard work with special expressions of thanks.

With our efforts to protect some of our traditions, we have also enjoyed creating new ones! Partnering with local restaurants, our PTF formed a “Dine for Dollars” program this past month. Every two weeks, we will be encouraging our families to support a select business by purchasing dinner.

These restaurants have generously offered to give back 20% which will benefit both SRVCA and the local food bank. Thanks to those local businesses who www.actionpoolrepair.com are willing to support the students of SRVCA! yourpoolman@hotmail.com If you’ve driven past Community Presbyterian Church lately, you’ve seen the large tent in the parking lot used for youth group, church services, and even to host SRVCA students during lunch. Although I wouldn’t say it’s reflective Contractor Lic# 978033-C53 of “running a circus” I would say it’s a testament to all the good God is doing in our church and school, despite a circus-like year! Wishing our San Ramon Valley all the best as we move into the Easter season.

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DO YOU HAVE ENOUGH INSURANCE?

TIPS FROM A PERSONAL INJURY ATTORNEY

By Michael E. Gatto

A few years ago, my insurance agent called me to suggest I increase my umbrella coverage. He mentioned one of his insureds, who resided in Alamo, was being sued regarding a motor vehicle accident where the claimed damages were in excess of $5 million. This individual had only $1.25 million in coverage and was panicked.

In the Bay Area, residents often drive expensive cars and make a lot of money. Personal injury claims are valued in part by lost wage and medical care costs. Given the sky-high cost of medical care, even a case involving a simple fracture healed with surgery in six weeks, along with a couple months of rehabilitation, can easily result in a claim worth more than $500,000. More serious or extensive injuries of course lead to more valuable claims.

How can we protect ourselves against such claims when auto policies and homeowners’ coverage is usually insufficient?

Umbrella policies or formally Personal Liability Umbrella Policies (PLUPs) provide excess coverage above policy limits on motor vehicles and for claims covered by homeowner’s policies. Kiplinger’s provides an online umbrella coverage calculator (www.kiplinger.com/kiplinger-tools/insurance/t028-s002how-much-umbrella-insurance-do-i-need/index.php). You should also consider input from a financial adviser and your insurance agent to make this decision.

Notably, I was quite familiar with the claim my insurance agent had called me about, as I was the one prosecuting it. I indeed increased my umbrella coverage and suggest you consider buying an umbrella policy or increasing your limits as well. It may help prevent or limit your out-of-pocket expense if you are deemed responsible for a major accident.

I regularly represent clients in complex and valuable personal injury claims well in excess of most personal liability coverage and even smaller umbrella policies. In addition, I am available for consultation for disputes between

March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 13

insureds and their insurance companies. These are referred to as coverage disputes and/or “bad faith” claims. I offer free consultations and can be reached at (925) 587-9949, mgatto@gattopc.com, or visit www.gattopc.com.

In support of COVID-19 safety protocols, virtual face-to-face consultations can be arranged as well. The Law Office of Michael E. Gatto PC is located at 2540 Camino Diablo, Suite 200, Walnut Creek, CA. 94597. [This information is intended for general purposes and should not be interpreted as legal advice. No recovery, no fee. Past results not a guarantee of future outcomes.]

Advertorial

EAST BAY REGIONAL PARK DISTRICT TRAILS CHALLENGE 2021

Every year more than 10,000 people participate in the free self-guided hiking and bicycling program to explore the East Bay regional parks and to keep fit outdoors. The 28th annual Trails Challenge is sponsored by the Regional Parks Foundation, Kaiser Permanente, and East Bay Regional Park District.

A Guidebook, available to download at www.ebparks.org/activities/hiking/ trails_challenge.htm includes 20 detailed trail descriptions available for all levels of fitness, from easy to challenging. There are trails open to hikers, bicyclists, dogs, and equestrians, and some trails are wheelchair accessible. To complete the challenge, hike five of the 20 trails, or 26.2 miles of trails within East Bay Regional Park District. You can submit your log, online or by mail,

by December 1, 2021 and receive a commemorative pin, while supplies last.

The pins will not be available until late June.

All 20 featured trails are available on the AllTrails app. First download the free app, sign-up and log in, then go to https://www.alltrails.com/lists/ebrpd-trailschallenge-2021 and click on “Copy to my lists,” followed by “Continue in App.”The featured trails will show under “Lists’ in ‘Plan.’” The app indicates where you are on the trail, enabling easy return to the trail if you stray from it. You can also record your hikes, and share your photos and comments with other park users.

PAGE 14 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

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VALLEY VIGNETTE By Beverly Lane

THE GOOLD FAMILY ~ HISTORICAL SOCIETY PLAQUE # 3

You will need to be a sleuth to find the San Ramon Valley Historical Society’s third historical plaque. This plaque is placed on a stone base in a small grove of redwood trees in Danville’s Sycamore Square Shopping Center (650-730 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville) parking lot, northwest area. It honors Charles Gardner Goold and his wife Allie Johnson Goold, early pioneers in Sycamore Valley and Danville.

Both Charles and Allie grew up in the Sycamore Valley area and attended local schools. When they married in 1884, they lived on the original Goold property which became part of the Blackhawk Ranch in the 1930s. They bought a ranch south of Danville from the estate of J. L. Boone in 1900, moving an 1875 house there which had been built by his father, Captain Gardner Goold. According to the Contra Costa Standard, they lost their chimney in the April 19, 1906, earthquake a mere six days after daughter Wanda was born.

The Goolds were active in the life of Danville and the valley. Charles was member of the Alamo Masonic Lodge and an Odd Fellows charter member in 1892. Allie was involved in the Danville Women’s Club and the Rebekahs. Both belonged to the Danville Grange. He was a rancher, a director of the San Ramon Valley Bank, and a Contra Costa Deputy Sheriff for 50 years. In 1911, the Goolds were one of the first families in Danville to install electricity in a house. Also that same year, they bought one of the first automobiles in the valley, an Everett.

Wanda Goold married Gerald S. Deardorff in the family’s 50-year old Danville home in 1933. They lived there, operated the walnut ranch, and raised son Walter and daughter Virginia. From 1951 to 1968, the property included a large tank house, a hay and grain silo (which later burned), and a walnut dehydrator.

In the sixties, agents for the proposed interstate freeway wanted to buy much of the ranch. The new alignment came right through Danville next to the old county road (Highway 21), and a decision to have a Sycamore Valley Road off ramp had been made. Their neighbors to the south, Mildred Lynch and Frank and Florence Roy, decided to sell their land. At first, the Deardorffs resisted but finally did sell their property. Wanda Deardorff recalled: “We got pushed out by so-called progress…and I think the term progress was very loosely used.” She pointed out that it was a beautiful home, in good condition. They moved to Hickman, California in 1971.

During the January 1973 valley-wide incorporation election, Roy Bloss, who was then the Historical Society President and a city council candidate, proposed that the handsome, historic house be saved and used as the first city offices if the vote was successful.

He said there was 2,400 square feet of floor area, and all the house needed was a good outside paint job. However, the incorporation vote was a negative one, and the house was eventually razed.

On the rainy day March 22, 1975, Historical Society President Dr. Wilson Close chaired the plaque dedication. One reporter noted Close sped up his speech when the rain poured and slowed during milder sprinkles. William F. Anderson (Anderson Realty) helped introduce the presentation. Anderson was instrumental in getting Long’s Drugs to donate the plaque. Tom Long, Chairman of the Board, was present at the dedication as was Tom Sweeney, the then Longs Drug Store manager.

Several Goold family members attended, including Gerald and Wanda Goold Deardorff. The Deardorff name is still well-recalled in the valley, especially since former San Ramon Valley Fire Chief Mel Deardorff was related to Wanda and Gerald.

The plaque reads: “This Grove of Trees is Dedicated to the Pioneers Charles Gardner Goold and Allie Johnson Goold, who acquired this property for a home in the year 1900 and planted these trees in 1913.”

Sources: Virgie V. Jones, Historic Places…in San Ramon Valley; San Ramon Valley Times January 1983 and August 19, 1984; Museum archives; SRV Historical Society, communications with Mel Deardorff; oral history of Mildred Lynch.

CLIP NOTES

By Jody Morgan

Daffodils danced across European landscapes long before gardeners began cultivating them thousands of years ago. The plethora of names for various forms, now all botanically designated Narcissus, made identifying the origin of old-fashioned favorites difficult. Still widely available today, Narcissus poeticus, commonly called the Poet’s Daffodil and Pheasant Eye, is thought to be a direct descendant of the Narcissus described in ancient Greek legends.

In 1733, Peter Collinson in London and John Bartram in Philadelphia began exchanging seeds, plants, and correspondence. In American Gardens in the Eighteenth Century, Ann Leighton notes: “Collinson sent Bartram ‘sweet white narcissus’ and was told it was common in Pennsylvania having spread from its early arrival with the original settlers. ‘I perceive what thou calls the Double sweet Daffodil we call the Sweet White Narcissus,’ Collinson wrote.”

The current replanting of Mount Vernon’s gardens, as George Washington might have enjoyed them, showcases ‘Avalanche’ (aka Seventeen Sisters), an heirloom tazetta daffodil thought to date from 1700. Each stem produces 15-20 fragrant white flowers with golden cups. Thomas Jefferson’s first entry in the garden book, a diary he kept for almost 60 years, begins on March 30, 1766: “Purple hyacinth begins to bloom.” The following week he wrote: “Narcissus and Puckoon open.” According to the Monticello website, our third President’s “Calendar of the bloom of flowers in 1782” records the overlapping and ephemeral sequence of flowering of narcissus, jonquils, hyacinths, anemones, ranunculus, and tulips, beginning in March and running through May. Despite dismissal of daffodils by dedicated gardeners as wild things during the early decades of the Victorian era, many British plant breeders remained captivated by the nodding noggins of narcissi. An 1851 edition of Gardeners Magazine of Botany featured six daffodil seedlings introduced by Edward Leeds. He eventually produced 169 selections.

Affectionately nicknamed “The Daffodil King,” Peter Barr was on a mission to find historical varieties. At some point during his career as a nurseryman, begun as an errand boy for a Glasgow purveyor of seeds, Barr discovered John

Parkinson’s 1629 description of the 94 distinct daffodil varieties grown in early 17th century English gardens. In 1874, hoping to reintroduce as many of the heirloom varieties as possible, Peter Barr purchased, along with associates, the entire Leeds inventory of 24,223 bulbs. Unfortunately, Leeds did not keep adequate breeding records. The collection Barr had acquired previously from William Backhouse presented similar identification issues.

Barr persuaded the Royal Horticultural Society to stage a major daffodil event. The 1884 conference, proving narcissi compatible with the most cultured horticultural tastes, led to the 1898 foundation of the Daffodil Society. The classification system adopted originally for show purposes derives from descriptions in Barr’s catalogues. Consequently, Divisions of Narcissi are listed in English rather than botanical Latin, beginning with Division 1: Trumpet Daffodils and ending with Division 13: Species and Wild Forms. In 1887, Barr turned his nursery business over to his sons and extended his passion for producing new daffodil varieties to hunting for ancient forms in the wild.

Although the Backhouse fortune was made in finance, the family’s fame continued to involve devotion to daffodils. Robert Ormiston Backhouse, third son of William Backhouse, worked in the family bank but also established a commercial bulb business. He and his wife Sarah Elizabeth Dodgson registered many daffodil selections together. Following her passing in 1921, Robert registered ‘Mrs. R.O. Backhouse’ in her memory. Possibly the result of 20 years of communal collaboration, this first pink daffodil of any consequence to be released remains available today.

The American Daffodil Society website (www.daffodilusa.org) has excellent information on the latest introductions as well as heirlooms. In 2020, the Northern California Daffodil Society (www.daffodils.org) held its 50th Annual Show at Alden Lane Nursery in Livermore. COVID concerns have canceled this year’s show in Livermore as well as the annual event at Ironstone Vineyard in Murphys. But you don’t have to travel far to enjoy exuberant displays of naturalized daffodils.

In fall 2015, volunteers at the Gardens at Heather Farms (GHF) in Walnut Creek planted a slope in the heart of the garden with 5,000 bulbs of three varieties of Narcissus tazetta, funded by a donation from GHF member Carla Preisler in memory of her husband Michael. Classified as Division 8, the tazettas are fragrant and floriferous. Historic Oak Knoll Cemetery in Livermore (aka Boot Hill), now rededicated as a public park, is blanketed each spring by thousands of daffodils planted by the Amador Valley Garden Club in partnership with Alden Lane Nursery.

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TECHNOLOGY MATTERS

YOUR FIRST CALL

By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.

Before starting Portable CIO (PCIO) in 2001, I held a corporate job and worked in San Francisco. I worked long hours with a commute, while my wife held down the fort, saw to our young children, and managed the household. Truth be told, I think she had the harder job, and...that’s another column!

After 9/11, I found myself without a job. Because I was dismayed at the job climate at the time, I wrote a business plan and then started PCIO within eight months. Soon, a wonderful thing happened; I began to meet my neighbors and my community. At first, this was a result of house calls, but then I began writing this column for Alamo Today, and a whole community got to know me and my growing team.

I don’t think I realized how cut-off from my community I had been.

We moved here in 1997, and ever since then, I had been in the tornado of managing a career and raising my family. I don’t think I am alone in not realizing that I was missing important connections and friendships with our neighbors and community at large. I am guessing I am not alone in yearning for the easy-going friendships and sense of home that we see in old movies.

I think we all want our sense of extended friends to be similar to the theme song for the TV show Cheers, “where every-body knows your name...” When we began PCIO, those connections to the community grew and with them, a strong sense of belonging.

All of this relates back to the service we deliver. A simple example of this would be when you bring a computer to us for repair. With PCIO, one of our technicians will address your repair in our shop, give you factual information about the problem/s, and return a working computer (if viable) within a week, if not a few days. We joke, have fun, and enjoy getting to know our clients.

You are not just a number to us; you are a friend who needs help.

By comparison, the largest big-box store in our area outsources all of their computer repairs to outside agencies or a central hub. With that comes tremendous delays. For example, we have had a few clients visit us after having repairs that the big-box store couldn’t correctly solve within three months.

And, because you are completely unable to speak with whomever is repairing your computer, there is no guarantee that your problems, or concerns, will be properly addressed. You give them your computer, it goes into a black hole, and weeks or months later, they call you to pick it up. On top of this, they’re more expensive. It’s a terrible model. Servicing computers doesn’t have to be so painful!

This brings me to the main point of this article. When you work with PCIO, you are dealing with people who have an investment in our community. We are real people who have decades of experience in this industry, with access to the latest tools and best practices, and who have probably seen your problem a hundred ways before. To put it succinctly, our reputation in the community is on the line, and we won’t last in the area by abusing our treasured clients.

We will not sugarcoat your situation or our advice; we will tell you the straight truth. We will tell you how most people we have helped with your situation have been successful, so that you may enjoy the same success. That’s what you deserve and what you get from a local company. And, when you call us on the phone with a question, we don’t ding you for every minute we triage your problems, because sometimes it takes just a bit longer to unravel what exactly is going on before you engage with a technician. None of this happens with a big-box store.

Your first call should never be to Dell, Apple, Google, Microsoft, Comcast, AT&T, or any of the other mega-tech companies or third-party overseas firms who support them when you sense something is wrong. We understand all of the systems you use and how they fit together. I know you want to be self-sufficient, and you think you’re saving money by going direct. However, I strongly suggest your first call should be to PCIO, because we’ll ensure you get connected with the service you need. Making that call is free, and you’re going to receive better and faster advice. In this era of fraudsters, off-shore rip-off schemes, and fake support, you are taking a enormous risk when you call what you think is “support” with a phone number you got off the web.

Our tag-line is “Technology. Simplified.” We deliver that, and we do it quickly and cost-effectively. If you’re ready to let “local” have a shot at your problems, email us at support@pcioit.com or call to chat with us at 925-552-7953. Advertorial

March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 15

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VSG continued from front page

Margaret Winter, VSG Treasurer and Webmaster, relates: “All my life, I have enjoyed sewing (the touch of the fabric) and knitting. When I retired, I realized I could now spend my time PLAYING, and I did not have to create anything useful if I did not want to. I was introduced to the Valley Stitchers Guild, and I was hooked after my first meeting. I thought I was already quite accomplished, but the guild opened up a whole new world of crafts to me and the opportunity to learn so much from my fellow members. My skills have improved vastly. I no longer just sew, but I also dye and paint fabric for my art quilts which decorate my house. Group members have become friends, and we support and challenge each other to try new techniques and expand our skills.”

Linda Casey, VSG President, notes: “Creativity for many of us isn’t bounded by just textile pursuits but seeps out into many areas of our lives.

We have members who are Master Gardeners, superb bakers and cooks, and artists in other mediums not limited to our focus, so why not share that creativity. I’ve often found that creativity in one area often inspires creativity somewhere else. Creativity is like a muscle -- it needs to be used to grow.”

Accordingly, with their traditional Holiday Potluck Party canceled this year, members created a fabulous feast of recipes to savor.

While other organizations struggled with the lack of personal contact dictated by the pandemic, VSG discovered online opportunities to enhance member participation, bring back former members who found traveling to monthly meetings problematic, and engage members in innovative challenges.

Everyone has a close-up view of presentations better than a front row seat. Nobody struggles from the back of the room to see a speaker’s designs or Long-time VSG member Eyrlene Kammerer stitches a member’s exhibit. With quilted jackets from her textile collection in this transportation and hotel costs December 2007 photo from a Lamorinda Sun, article. eliminated, VSG can now (Photo by Jay Solmonson) book speakers from around the world, presenting topics as diverse as the process of making silk in India and a backstage tour of rarely seen textiles from Oxford’s Bodleian Library collection. At in-person meetings, members tended to sit and socialize with close friends. Putting members together in small break-out rooms during monthly Zoom meetings has forged many new friendships.

Mini three-month challenges offer members a chance to try something new. Emphasis is on engaging in the process without worrying about the end product. There are no rules, just a theme. The current challenge running

See VSG continued on page 17

PAGE 16 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

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QUICK TRIPS By Linda Summers Pirkle

VILLA MONTALVO

ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)

By Roger Smith, President ALAMO’S LANDSCAPING ~ WHERE HAVE YOU BEEN AND WHERE HAVE YOU GONE? (PART 2 OF 2)

In the 1990’s and early 2000’s, the Alamo Boulevard of Trees Committee continued to plant more trees on both Danville Blvd. and Stone Valley Road, and provided the landscaped median at the intersection of Stone Valley and Green Valley Roads in east Alamo. They also drew up plans with a landscape architect to plant flowering shrubs and trees throughout Alamo.

Unfortunately, in the mid-2000’s, the State of California developed new regulations for “parcel tax districts,” which coupled with local County Administrative Fee Schedules for oversight, eroded the Zone 36 funding. This meant that the landscape plans initiated by the Boulevard of Trees Committee/ Zone 36 could not be completed.

In an attempt to offset the increased County Administrative Fees, in June 2006 a mail-in ballot to increase the parcel tax to $20.00/per parcel was attempted. However, it failed, for reasons unexplained. The result is that for the last 31 years, since 1990, Zone 36 remains at the $9.36/per parcel rate.

The Ballot Proposal (if passed) would have beautified the major roadways and entrances to Alamo.

Currently, the Alamo MAC has responsibility to oversee the Zone 36 budget. However, routine maintenance operations are managed directly by the Contra Costa County Public Works Department with periodic reports to the Alamo MAC. Based upon these reports, currently there is a reserve of $80,000 available for tree maintenance, Alamo beautification, and tree planting. A portion of these funds have now been allocated by Contra Costa County for the services of a professional arborist’s report to assess the health of Alamo’s Zone 36 trees. The report is to be completed and available this spring.

It appears that the County intends to use most of these reserves for the maintenance of the original Boulevard of Trees.

Alamo residents have consistently shown that they are supportive of tree plantings in our community.

The September 2020 Alamo Resident Survey by the AIA showed an 88+% positive response supporting the value of trees to our community. Please visit www.AlamoCA.org for information including a PowerPoint presentation showing historical photos of Alamo from the 1850’s, Arborist’s comments on the value of protecting tree canopies, and US Forestry Service’s iTree website information with valuation measurements of Alamo and Contra Costa County tree canopies.

ALAMO CERTIFIED FARMER’S MARKET ~ WANT A HEALTHIER 2021? TRY MORE FRESH FRUITS AND VEGETABLES!

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 study suggests. “Although five portions of fruit and vegetables is good, 10 a day is even better,” said study author Dagfinn Aune of the School of Public Health at Imperial College London. “Fruit 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 reported.

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.

An excellent source for fresh fruits and vegetables for your diet and dining pleasure is our Alamo Farmer’s Market! They have the best and the freshest fruits and vegetables full of taste, vitamins, nutrition, and fiber that everyone needs for their diet including oranges, clementines, mandarins, grapes, persimmons, apples, and pomegranates!

The Market is open Sundays year-round, from 9AM – 2PM, in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd., near Bank of America. There is plenty of free parking, live music, and friendly vendors.

AIA MEMBERSHIP

Alamo is a special community that all of our residents can be justifiably to call “Home.” Now in its 66th year, AIA, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization has an outstanding history of serving our community and helping shape it into the place we love to live.

Please visit our website www.AlamoCA.org for more information.

Flaky and toasty warm empanadas stacked on wooden trays quickly sell out at the popular small takeout restaurant La Fabrica in Barcelona. My son and I returned frequently for our favorite empanada filled with “cuatro quesos” (four gooey, melted cheeses: provolone, emmental, mozzarella, and gorgonzola).“Street food” usually piques my interest as I wander about on my travels and is often what I remember most vividly.

Since I love al-fresco dining when weather conditions allow, I am always looking for the perfect spot to enjoy my picnic delights.

Parc de la Ciutadella, a park in the northeastern edge of Ciutat Vella neighborhood in Barcelona, is a 70-acre park that was, until the mid-19th century, the city’s only green space. Besides benches and grassy areas, the park includes the city zoo, the Palau del Parliament de Catalunya, a small lake, and museums. One of my favorite places to sit is near the Parc de la Ciutadella, Barcelona, Spain interesting (and huge) Baroque style Fountain of the Waterfall. The fountain was built in 1888 for the Universal Exhibition of Barcelona with the help of Antoni Gaudi who was still a student. Apparently, it was inspired by the Trevi Fountain in Rome and is a popular backdrop for selfies and photo shoots. The park is a haven for both local and tourist picnickers alike.

Closer to home, another great spot for locals to picnic and enjoy the lovely scenery is Villa Montalvo in the hills of Saratoga. Built in 1912, the lovely estate was the country home of James Duval Phelan (1861-1930) who was a three-term mayor of San Francisco and California’s first popularly elected U.S. Senator. The home was a center of artistic, political, and social life in Northern California, and Phelan invited writers and artists to the Villa to work on individual artistic projects; Jack London, Ethel Barrymore, Mary Pickford, Douglas Fairbanks, and Edwin Markham were some of the guests.

Today, at the same spot where poetry readings, lectures, and concerts were held in the 1920’s, stands the Lilian Fontaine Garden Theatre, the state-of-the art 1,400-seat amphitheater which is well known for its wonderful concerts.

Besides the theater, there are miles of hiking trails that wind through forests as well as formal and informal gardens including the Italianate Garden with its cypress and citrus Villa Montalvo Estate, Saratoga, CA trees. I am marking my calendar to re-visit in the spring to see the hundreds of white roses planted in the garden. For the cactus lover, the Phelan Cactus Garden showcases colorful and fanciful plant forms, and the Blue Garden features plantings of “blue” succulents, palms, and shrubs.

On a recent visit to the 175 acre Villa Montalvo estate, my husband and I walked up a pathway under a canopy of huge redwood trees to the Great Lawn, a two acre grassy area that is the perfect spot for picnickers to enjoy a view of the stately historic villa. I loved our hike in the hills, and I particularly enjoyed the lovely sculptures we spotted throughout the grounds of the estate. One sculpture, called Sweet Tweet, a bronze statue of a little girl holding the tip of a twig in her mouth with five little birds perched atop by artist Tim Hawkinson (b. 1960), is especially enchanting.

Villa Montalvo online classes include belly and tap dancing, flower-arranging, wreath making, and decluttering your mind. Check out a unique video Four Bridges (available as a podcast on iTunes), an evocative audio recording in the enchanted forest of Montalvo. A Mother’s Day socially distanced boxed picnic lunch event is in the planning stages. Check their website montalvoarts.org for details.

Villa Montalvo is located at 15400 Montalvo Road, Saratoga, CA. Linda Summers Pirkle, a travel writer, Francophile, consultant, and long-term Danville resident, has arranged and led tours for the Town of Danville for several years. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas, email Coverthemap@gmail.com.

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March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 17

VSG continued from page 17

through March invites members to be inspired by art, music, lyrics, literature, or cinema. A suggestion from the Guild’s February Ragtimes newsletter reads: “Are you a lover of Pride and Prejudice? Could you knit a pair of lace gloves or a shawl in the Elizabethan style? Or follow Scarlet O’Hara’s example from Gone with the Wind, and remake your curtains into a gown?”

Subgroups currently meeting via Zoom include WAGS (Wearable Art Group), Knitting and Crochet, and Art Quilts. The socially-minded Needle Nuts will meet again when they can gather together for lunch.

The Art Quilt Group offers its own innovative Pass-the-Envelope Challenge. The first member receives a photograph, makes an art quilt inspired by the picture, and then passes her piece to the next member.

Only the first of the six quilters sees the original photograph. The results bear testament to the ingenuity and individuality of each participant. Casey comments that the final reveal of all six quilts can be amazing. Linda Casey received a photo of three bison in the snow Pam Rogers, VSG Vice-President for Programs and Workshops, describes one such sequence. “The pho- to begin a Pass-the-Envelope Art Quilt Challenge. Photo tograph is the beginning. I studied this for almost three weeks before I came up with an idea and an inspira- courtesy of VSG. tion for my quilt. I saw this as the granddaughter of the woman who was attacked in the Alfred Hitchcock movie ‘The Birds.’ From Pam’s interpretation of the child looking at sculptures of birds and remembering her grandmother’s story, the series continued with a design featuring birds in birch trees, followed by birch trees without birds, and ending in waves crashing on rocks with no birds at all.

In another Pass-the-Envelope progression, Linda Casey received a photograph with bison in the snow. She wanted to be inside a snug cabin and started the process with the bison viewed through a window. Others interpreted the sequence as a fall scene, eventually leading up to an elaborately executed turkey. “I begin with an idea, and then it becomes something else," Pablo Picasso once characterized his own creative process.

The evolution of VSG’s endeavors is archived by historian Karen Wetherell, who also manages the roster.

“Valley Stitchers Going Strong” (Lamorinda Sun, 12/21/2007) recognized VSG’s 40th anniversary. Rudy Thomas, one of the Guild’s original 35 members, recalls: “Fiber arts was just a small part of the art world back then.” The 2007 Guild had almost 200 members. Eyrlene Kammerer, who joined VSG in 1978, is also featured. A former apparel design teacher at Diablo Valley College, Eyrlene filled her sewing room with “exotic Inspired to be inside a snug cabin, Linda Casey put fabric fabrics from her travels.” The celebration of her 99th birthday is noted in the February 2021 issue of Ragtimes. together for a scene with the bison viewed through a Most members have a stockpile of extra craft supplies. The Little Shop, a free members’ exchange, en- window to pass to the next quilter. Photo courtesy of VSG. courages swapping materials and finished pieces. Many members also fashion surplus yarn and fabric into practical products from knitted baby caps to blankets for critters confined in shelters to donate to local non-profits.

Talented mixed media artist Joani Share, who recently joined VSG, created a website listing charitable organizations that rely upon items crafted by fiber artists: https://articipate.com. She explains: “Originally, the touchable art I created with ARTicipate was designed to make pediatric hospital waiting rooms more comfortable for children and families in stressful situations.” Today, ARTicipate offers a free resource directory Joani updates regularly.

VSG added a pre-Valentine's Day Zoom party to its February calendar as the latest means of getting members together. Judy Cannon holds the new board position of Social Events Coordinator. Profiled in February’s newsletter, Judy notes that fabric and fiber arts were always a part of her life going back to the time when her totally blind grandfather wove rag rugs. Ladies from the church sorted rags for him by color into 50-gallon drums. “As a child, I loved mixing the colored rags and having him ‘scold’ me This six-quilt series IT'SinAtheFAMILY ISSUE Pass-the-Envelope Challenge for ‘putting the blue rags in with the yellows.’ I thought he could see with his fingers, and he and I loved indicates what eachH Etalented found inspiring.

Photo R E D I Tstitcher ARY C ANC ER my little game.” Judy is grateful for the continuation of VSG meetings on Zoom during the pandemic. courtesy of VSG. FREE VIRTUAL SPEAKER PANEL “I know I would be in a much darker place now if it were not for the ladies of the Guild and especially the Art Quilt and Crochet and Knitting groups.”

Find your own warm welcome by visiting www.valleystitchersguild.com. You may try one meeting free before joining.

WEDNESDAY | MARCH 10 | 7PM

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED

Many of our neighbors cannot afford to feed and clothe themselves or their families. Volunteer opportunities for individuals, families, and groups to serve the community are available at White Pony Express.

White Pony Express, founded by Dr. Carol Weyland Conner in 2013 and headquartered in Pleasant Hill, is a nonprofit that rescues fresh surplus food from supermarkets, restaurants, and farmers markets. This nutritious food is then delivered free to organizations that feed the hungry. In addition, high-quality clothing, children’s toys, and books are distributed free of charge.

Hundreds of volunteers make White Pony Express possible. They volunteer because they believe in the mission and know they are helping others who have urgent needs at this critical time in their lives. If you are interested in volunteering, please visit whiteponyexpress.org/volunteer or call Mandy Nakaya, Volunteer Services Coordinator, at 925-818-6361 or email Mandy@whiteponyexpress.org.

Learn the latest in genetic testing, cancer prevention, and

HEREDITARY CANCER how inherited genes can impact men and women in your family.

FREE VIRTUAL SEMINAR

On Wednesday, March 10th at 7pm join the free online presentation titled, “It’s a Family Issue” which will discuss hereditary cancer and its impact on the men and women in your family. You will hear from medical and subject matter experts offering the latest updates in genetic testing, cancer prevention, and how it impacts you and yours.

The seminar will be moderated by Aimee Sax, MSW, California program coordinator of Sharsheret (www.sharsheret.org), the Jewish breast and ovarian Sponsored by: Anshei Isaiah, Beth Chaim Congregation, B'nai Israel of Rossmoor, cancer community.

Chabad of Contra Costa, Congregation Beth Emek, Congregation B’nai Shalom, Congregation B’nai Tikvah, Contra Costa JCC, Contra Costa Jewish Day School, Diablo Valley Hadassah, The live event is open to all, with the opportunity to ask questions of the panInterfaith Council of Contra Costa County, NCJW, Sharsheret, Temple Isaiah, and Women of Isaiah elists. Register at https://bit.ly/2JcyBvo. For questions email asax@sharsheret.org.

PAMELA MUNSTER, M.D.

JOSH BARNHART, B.S., M.S.

RALEIGH ZWERIN

Co-Director of the UCSF

Genetic Counselor

Previvor and Sharsheret

Center for BRCA Research

John Muir Health

Peer Supporter

Moderated by Aimee Sax, MSW, California Program Coordinator of Sharsheret, The Jewish Breast & Ovarian Cancer Community.

For more information or free support, visit Sharsheret.org.

Admission to this online event is free and open to all.

Register: https://bit.ly/2JcyBvo

Questions? Email asax@sharsheret.org

SAVE MOUNT DIABLO’S FREE “DISCOVER DIABLO” 2021 HIKES PROGRAM

Explore some of the East Bay’s premiere hiking spots with Save Mount Diablo in 2021, including areas rarely open to the public. The Discover Diablo hike series offers interpretive family walks, guided hikes, and property tours, all free to the public. Trailblazers of all ages and skill levels are welcome.

Save Mount Diablo is adding hikes and new activities to the series. New offerings will include climbing, mountain biking, and bilingual hikes in Spanish and English. The ever-popular tarantula walk will be offered twice, and a special hike will celebrate the California State Parks centennial. Hikes are guided by experts steeped in the natural history and lore of the region, who both educate and entertain while emphasizing the breathtaking beauty that the Diablo Range has to offer.

See the full schedule of upcoming hikes and RSVP online at http://bit.ly/Discover-Diablo-Hikes-Calendar.

PAGE 18 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

ADDING A LOVED ONE TO YOUR HOME TITLE – SIMPLE?

By Robert J. Silverman, Attorney at Law

I’ve often been told: “I want to add [fill in the blank with a loved one, e.g. a child] to the title of my home,” followed by the question: “That’s simple, right?”

On the surface, the answer would be yes. The process by which a property owner (“donor”) adds a loved one (“donee”) to the property title - typically as a “joint tenant” - is a relatively easy proposition for an estate planning or real estate attorney. And many property owners perceive that taking this action is a terrific succession solution; an elegant and effective short-cut to conventional estate planning.

The better answer is that adding someone to one’s property title is anything but simple. The potential risks and consequences are many, far-reaching, and unbeknownst to most laypeople. Fortunately, however, conventional and comprehensive estate planning, including a well-drafted revocable living trust, can nearly always accomplish a donor’s objectives while avoiding all or most of the potential problems associated with adding a loved one to the title.

Some of the more important potential problems associated with the well-intentioned, but often ill-advised, addition of someone to the title of your property are: I. Property Tax Reassessment. Generally, any transfer of CA real estate will trigger a reassessment unless a specific exemption applies. New Proposition 19 rules have eliminated most formerly attractive parent-child transfer exemptions.

Hence, innocently adding a donee to your title will almost certainly result in a property tax increase – regardless of the fact that the donor likely only added the donee as a matter of “convenience,” for succession purposes.

II. Income (Capital Gains) Tax. Generally, due to the income tax features known as “carryover basis” for lifetime gifts and “stepped-up basis” for inheritance upon

Charity continued from front page

www.yourmonthlypaper.com | Instagram: @Alamoanddanvilletoday | #atdtnews death, it’s much more tax favorable to inherit. While the details of this distinction are beyond the scope of the article, the essence is that upon the future sale of the property by the donee, the donee may end up paying a very substantial amount of capital gains tax that could have been avoided had the donee instead received the property via inheritance upon the death of the donee.

III. Federal Estate & Gift Tax. When a donor makes a gift valued at more than $15K per calendar year ($30K per year for married donors) – which is virtually always the case with CA real estate: 1) the donor is required to file a Federal Gift Tax return; and 2) the donor, often unknowingly, uses up a portion of his/her lifetime gift tax exemption (amount of assets that can be gifted without paying tax on the gift) and a portion of his/her estate tax exemption (amount of assets the donor’s loved ones can inherit upon the donor’s death without being subject to estate tax).

IV. Control. 1) The donor’s equity can be vulnerable to current and future judgments against the donee. 2) The donee may have enforceable occupancy rights that the donor may not intend nor desire. 3) The donee has a right to his/her portion of rents generated by the property; 4) Major complications arise if the donee becomes incapacitated, and the donor wants to sell or refinance the property. 5) The donee can invoke “partition rights” to force the sale of the property, even if contrary to the donor co-owner’s wishes. 6) The donee can easily and quickly alter the donor’s intended “joint tenancy” succession plan by unilaterally severing the joint tenancy.

These many and serious cautionary issues emphasize the importance of obtaining legal and tax advice before deciding on whether or not to “simply” add a loved one to a property title. |Estate Planning | Trust Administration & Probate | Real Estate | Business| Please contact me to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. I am an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group, (please note new address) 1910 Olympic Blvd., Suite 330, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com.

This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors.

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formed a local branch of the organization that was originally founded in 2001 in Arizona. Today, boys team charity includes 30 leagues with 10,000 members throughout Arizona, California, Colorado, Nevada, and Texas. boys team charity (btc) is dedicated to developing an altruistic spirit in young men, grades 7th – 12th, through active participation of parents and sons in philanthropic projects in their communities. boys team charity believes that boys gain a greater sense of social responsibility by serving their communities, building self-esteem and a giving spirit, and deepening family bonds. The graduates of btc develop leadership skills and a respect for working with others as a unified team. These skills, and the friendships that develop, remain with btc TeamMates as they transition to adulthood and forge their own paths in new communities. btc members made Thanksgiving centerpieces for elderly Meals on Goals of btc are to serve the local community, promote personal growth, strengthen family rela- Wheels and Running for Love recipients. tionships, develop leadership skills, and offer educational opportunities. Philanthropy partners serve children and youth, families, military, animals, the elderly, and the environment. Projects have included the making of morale-boosting signs for firefighters during wildfire season, delivering goodie bags and Thanksgiving centerpieces to residents at assisted living centers Atria Senior Living and Tiffany Court, food collection and donation to Monument Crisis Center and The Food Bank, collection of household goods and home set-up for Grateful Gatherings, making no-sew fleece blankets for Mission for the Homeless, collecting gently used shoes for Soles4Souls, collecting used crayons for The Crayon Initiative, and making paracord bracelets and sewing fleece hats for Operation Gratitude.

“The organizations with whom we partner must be registered 501c3 organizations,” said Jackie Williams, vice president of communications for btc, Alamo-Danville.

“Though this year we implemented a Covid exception to allow us to better support elderly, health care workers, and firefighters. We look for new philanthropies, listen to members suggestions, and sometimes are contacted by groups like Soles4Souls. We adjust our partnerships year after year depending on interest from our members.

Our philanthropy liaisons check in with their philanthropy liaisons a couple of times per year to see what needs they have and how we may be able to contribute.” “boys team charity has meant the opportunity to help people in need,” said TeamMate Andrew DeMitis, a sophomore at Monte Vista High School. “One of my most memorable volunteer opportunities was when we supported Grateful Gatherings. This is a philanthropy that helps families escape abusive homes and helps rebuild their lives. We spent a day fully furnishing a home. We built beds, hung pictures, and put together bookshelves. The most impactful part was seeing the two small kids that were so grateful to have a safe home with beds, blankets, and stuffed animals. It gave them a safe home where they weren’t afraid, and that is what a home should be. Knowing that you've changed somebody’s life for the better is very rewarding.”

“I’ve been in the Alamo-Danville League since it was formed in 2016,” said TeamMate Aidan Pelley, a junior at Monte Vista. “It’s been great to be able to be with my friends and all of our parents to help others in need. I have learned so much about communities both here in Danville and farther out that aren’t as fortunate as we are. It really gives us an appreciation of our families and community, but it also makes you want to help others to have better lives and bring happiness to them.”

The active btc membership year runs May 1 – April 30th. All prospective members must be sponsored by a current member. The sponsor must submit the Intent to Sponsor Form while the Prospective Member completes the New Member Application between the dates of February 26 and March 8. If there are more applicants than space available in a class, applicants are selected by random draw to fill the class or, if necessary, placed on a waitlist. btc applicants are eligible for membership if they live within the boundaries of the San Ramon Valley or Monte Vista High School district boundaries. “boys team charity has been such an incredible experience for our family,” said btc parent Coach Linda Pedersen, mother of btc TeamMates Jake and Luke. “It’s always been important for us to give back and contribute to our community, and btc provides us with so many diverse opportunities. Whether it’s volunteering with the Special Olympics, sorting crayons for The Crayon Initiative, or putting snacks together for our healthcare workers, it has been so rewarding to see firsthand how together we can make a difference.”

“I think it has put me in a unique position to see life from other people’s point of view, said 8th grade TeamMate Luke. “It has been very rewarding seeing the difference we can make in our community.”

For information, visit https://btcalamo-danville.chapterweb.net or the group’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/btcalamodanville.

Facebook: Alamo Today & Danville Today News | editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 19

DEBT…LEVERAGE!

By Peter T. Waldron, Managing Partner of Spectrum Wealth Partners

“Human behavior flows from three main sources: desire, emotion, and knowledge.” ~ Plato The financial planning industry is truly a balancing act of desire, emotion, and knowledge, which is never more evident than when we explore the topic of debt. While there are many types of debt in the financial world, mortgage debt tends to be, in many cases, the main topic of discussion. The conversation has never been more top of mind than right now; people are refinancing, upgrading, and downsizing (for retirement). While everyone comes to the table with their own personal construct around making decisions, the goal of this article is to apply the words of Plato to decision making and financial planning.

One of the strongest emotions a human being can exhibit is desire, and with home purchases, this desire can fog good financial judgment. For example, it’s common to see people who want to own homes that are way outside of their purchasing power. While the monthly payments might be feasible, without considering their emergency funds and other short-, intermediate-, and longterm objectives, the probability of a successful outcome is less than viable. As mentioned, desire is a strong force; it is driven by our need to provide more for ourselves, our spouses, our children, and our family. While these are noble desires, they need to be grounded in what’s realistically possible.

It’s often difficult to remain grounded in the reality of your financial situation once your emotions become part of the equation. Clearly, desire is an emotion, and, in this construct, emotion is considered a broader definition of the opposite of logic. It’s not that emotion is illogical; rather, the opposite, whereas, when the logical and fundamentally best outcome is presented the opposite decision is made. So, within that context, if you have picked your dream downsize home or first-time home, the question then becomes, do you pay cash or use leverage? Some people with the means will pay cash for the house, even though the logical outcome in a vacuum would be to fully leverage the asset (have the biggest mortgage), given a long-term period where interest rates are low and the stock market will bear long-term rates above the interest rate for borrowing. Again, the emotional decision would be to ignore the best outcome.

While it is logical to analyze the long-term outcome, the inverse issue arises for the knowledgeable (or logic-based) decision maker when they don’t take emotion into consideration. Some people don’t consider emotion at all when discussing money. But that can be a fool’s game because emotion and money at times are a large source of instability. So if you use the same logic applied above (where you have low interest rates and long-term investment returns above the borrowing rate) and you don’t fully understand the emotions of your partner, the investment risks you are taking, the impact of an unforeseen event, or the combination of all these variables, the results could be catastrophic. This is not to say that logic is fallible; rather, the assumptions that are applied are fallible.

The naïve logic is to assume that everything is constant, including mortgages, homes, investments, and people’s emotions. The only way that we can interlace these various elements is to consider them all and test the impact of various scenarios. While this is only a temporary view of a situation, it is the constant reassessment of the data given ongoing changes in the original assumptions that guides someone to better conclusions over time. And while this is not a clear fact to everyone, it is the benefit of advice, planning, principled debate, and trust.

“What it lies in our power to do, it lies in our power not to do.” – Aristotle To schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation, please contact me at 925-786-7686 or email peter.waldron@lfg.com. You can also complete a complimentary business owner survey – https://www.berireport. com/Survey/Register/A90A1389_8330. The results of the survey will help you define your optimal exit plan.

Peter T. Waldron: California Insurance License #0E47827. Peter T. Waldron is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offers investment advisory service through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Spectrum Wealth Partners is not an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors. 3201 Danville Blvd, Suite 190, Alamo, CA 94507. Insurance offered 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 circumstance.

The content of this material was provided to you by Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp. for its representatives and their clients. CRN-34555855-021721.

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The Rotary Club of Alamo meets virtually on Wednesdays at 12:15PM. For information about the group visit alamorotary. org, email alamorotary@hotmail.com, or call 925-718-6601.

The Danville Rotary Club meets virtually every Monday at noon. Learn more about the group at danvillerotary.org. If you are interested learning more about the Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary Club, contact Daniel Kodam at daniel@dsvrotary.com, call 925-336-0000, or visit dsvrotary.com. The Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley meets via Zoom every Wednesday night from 7PM-8:30PM. For more information, call Valerie Munoz at 925-683-6310. You can also visit www.sanramonvalleyrotary.com. The Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/San Ramon meets via Zoom, on Wednesdays at 5:30PM-6:40PM. For more information, call 925-998-2924. Lastly, Rotary Club of San Ramon meets via Zoom every Thursday between noon and 1:15pm. For more information, visit sanramonrotary.org, email chris@gallagherwealth.com, or call 925-831-3043.

DANVILLE LIONS CLUB

The Danville Lions Club meets virtually at 6:30PM on the first Tuesday and third Wednesday of every month. Danville Lions Club raises funds and provide services to those in need, both locally and worldwide through fun and gratifying projects. Lions are well known for successful initiatives in vision health. Please contact Nancy for a guest connection to the next Zoom meeting at nbircher@mac.com Visit www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/danvilleca to learn more. For club information, contact Truman Howard at 925-820-1711.

KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY

The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets every Thursday at noon.

Meetings are currently being held via Zoom. The Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville and many other exciting events.

The Club has an interesting and informative weekly program speaker and specializes in fun and entertaining camaraderie. There is no charge for a guest lunch. For more information, email info@srvkiwanis.org, or visit www.srvkiwanis.org.

PAGE 20 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST

By Linda Michaelis RD, MS SIMPLY LOWERING HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

I have seen many clients that wish to get off of their blood pressure medication because of their side effects and feelings that they have to resort to eating a bland diet. I am thrilled to be able to show them that dining can be enjoyable.

My client Don and his wife Adelle were referred to me by a local physician. The doctor was inclined to increase Don’s blood pressure medication because his numbers were not in the normal range. However, the doctor said, “If you see Linda, we’ll wait two months before making changes.”

Don and Adelle are retired, and their kids are out of the house. Adelle wanted a break from cooking, and they felt that this was finally the time to enjoy at least outdoor restaurant dining and local travel. However, John expressed some nervousness in going to restaurants because of a realistic fear that the food could raise his blood pressure.

After seeing John’s food diary, I decided our basic strategy was to limit his salt intake to 2,000mg of sodium per day, which is equal to a teaspoon of salt. I saw that John’s choice of foods, including breads, bacon, soups, chips, and deli meats, all had heavy doses of salt. We first focused on how to read food labels, pointing out that in spite of claims on packages a low sodium product can contain 140mg of sodium per serving.

I strive to take the foods my clients enjoy and set up plans based on their favorites. I introduced Don to breakfast options that have no salt such as oatmeal or a slice of salt-free bread with unsalted almond or peanut butter. I also recommended that John enjoy an omelet made with unsalted butter, Swiss cheese (naturally low in salt at 60mg/slice), spinach and mushrooms, along with fresh salsa that has very little salt. I also introduced him to Kashi Go Lean as the best cold cereal with 80 grams of sodium per cup.

While I appreciate Adelle’s desire to eat out, there is a short list of foods that must be prepared at home to avoid salt traps. These include homemade soups (wonderful fresh herbs and spices can easily be substituted for salt), baked turkey breast, chicken with BBQ sauce, vinaigrette salad dressings, and marinara and cheese sauces that Don loves. I introduced Adelle to salt-free chicken stock and vinegars that provide a terrific flavor when splashed onto cooked veggies. Adelle now cooks a great sauce for Don’s beloved spaghetti consisting of chopped tomatoes, fresh basil, oregano, and garlic. Adding some aged Parmesan is OK because it only has 75mg of sodium per tablespoon. Adelle loves to make beans soups, and I told her she can buy salt-free beans or dried beans that are soaked overnight and cooked the next day.

Adelle and Don did not realize that all breads have an average of 150mg of sodium per slice. I suggested using salt-free bread for their sandwiches, adding yellow mustard (55mg/ teaspoon) to highlight flavor.

Don was happy to learn he could still enjoy snacks such as unsalted baked chips, unsalted nuts, or even dry cereal that is low in salt.

I told Adelle and Don that it would be my job to make sure they will enjoy their glorious retirement in restaurants and become more comfortable traveling. We have discussed the advantages of ordering fish, beef, or chicken cooked without salt, and instead using olive oil, lemon, pepper, and herbs for flavoring. Though adding salt to veggies is a favorite addition of many cooks, we discussed the need to be firm with the waiter that you cannot have salt. A side salad is great, and many restaurants will bring you a decanter of oil and vinegar for dressing. I emphasized that Don can still enjoy a restaurant meal with salt if he keeps the other meals of the day relatively salt-free to meet the 2,000mg sodium goal. We also discussed the advantages of staying in condos with kitchens while traveling, which will allow for eating breakfast and some lunches in, and dinner out.

I advised Don that he must drink six to eight glasses of water per day to get rid of the salt he is consuming and also to walk 30 minutes per day.

I am glad to inform you that after working with Don for a month, his blood pressure is the best it has been in years, and he has lost 10 pounds. The couple has decided to go visit their kids in Florida, and Don says he is not scared of eating in restaurants anymore. I will continue to follow Don through phone and e-mail, even while they are in Florida, and assist him with eating at his daughter’s home.

Nutritional counseling is covered by most health insurance companies including Aetna, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, CCHP, Cigna, and UHC. I am happy to call on your behalf and see what coverage your plan offers. Please visit my website, www.LindaRD.com, to learn more about my services. Feel free to email me at lifeweight1@yahoo.com, or call me at 925-855-0150 to tell me about your Advertorial nutritional concerns and see how I may help you.

www.yourmonthlypaper.com | Instagram: @Alamoanddanvilletoday | #atdtnews

DERMATOLOGISTS SECRETS TO THINNING HAIR FOR MEN AND WOMEN

By Jerome Potozkin, MD

Believe it or not, hair loss or thinning hair affects both men and women. There is a huge market for lotions, potions, and vitamins to regrow hair. There are some things that actually work to slow down hair loss or even regrow hair. There are others that are pure snake oil. Hopefully, by reading this, you will know the difference.

Alopecia is a very generic term that refers to hair loss. The most common type of hair loss we see in both men and women is genetically preprogrammed hair loss. The hair on your head has both active growth and resting phases, just like the seasons. On any given day, about 100 hairs will enter a resting phase called telogen. At the same time, about 100 hairs will wake up and enter a growth phase known as anagen. About 15% of our follicles are resting. As time goes by, an individual hair follicle goes through many growth/rest/growth cycles. In people with genetically programed hair loss known as androgenetic, or male patterned baldness in men and female pattern baldness in women, certain hair follicles will get smaller and smaller with each successive cycle. These follicles miniaturize to the point that they are so small that they are barely visible. That’s the bad news. The good news is that there is effective treatment.

The first medicine that was shown to be effective and approved by the FDA in treating hair loss was Rogaine. This medicine initially required a prescription but now is available over the counter. Rogaine is the brand name for minoxidil in a topically applied formulation. Minoxidil was originally used as an oral medication to treat high blood pressure. Rogaine comes in both an alcoholbased liquid as well as a foam. I recommend the liquid as the foam can matte down your hair. Most people that use Rogaine will find it slows down hair loss.

Some lucky people will find they grow new hair. The downside of Rogaine is that you need to apply it two times a day and keep using it to maintain the results, a small percent of people will find it irritates the scalp, and about 10% of people see no benefit. You need to use it for 9-12 months to assess if it is working.

Propecia (finasteride) is a once a day oral medication, FDA approved to treat male patterned hairloss. At higher doses, the medicine was originally used to treat enlarged prostates. A prescription is required. The medicine is not approved for use by women. Propecia offers the convenience of a once daily oral medication that is more effective than Rogaine. There have been side effects reported in some such as decreased sex drive and depression. It is not clear if there is a “cause and effect” of these side effects. The advantage of this medication is convenience and efficacy.

Latisse is a topically-applied medication that can regrow hair. It is used mostly to help with thinning lashes for which it is FDA approved. It can also be used “off-label” for thinning eyebrows. It would not be practical to use it for thinning hair on the scalp because of how expensive that would be.

In our office, we have had great success with PRP treatments. PRP stands for platelet rich plasma where a tube of your blood is taken. The blood is centrifuged (spun) at high speeds. This separates the blood cells from the PRP. The PRP containing growth factors that stimulate the follicle is injected into the areas of thinning hair. Since we are injecting your natural tissue, there is no concern about a reaction or allergy to the injection. Most people require four treatments spaced one month apart. Maintenance injections are scheduled at six month intervals. Most people combine PRP with Rogaine or Propecia. There is some evidence that low level lasers can help stimulate the follicles. Some of our patients combine using the Theradome laser with PRP. Theradome is a home-use device that one wears for two 20 minute sessions per week. None of these treatments are covered by insurance.

Thinning hair is a problem that plagues both men and women. There are many things promoted to help with thinning hair. Unfortunately, many don’t work. I have included treatments for which there is scientific evidence of their effectiveness. One thing we do know is that time is of the essence. If you are concerned about hair loss, call us now as the longer you delay treatment, the less likely treatment will be effective for you.

Dr. Jerome Potozkin is a Board Certified Dermatologist specializing in minimally and non-invasive cosmetic procedures. The practice is accepting new patients and can be reached at (925) 838-4900 and www.MyBeautyMd.com.

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March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 21

PAGE 22 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

HEALING YOUR SHOULDER/ ROTATOR CUFF PAIN

By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

The rotator cuff muscles (four muscles in total) are the primary support structures for the shoulder.

Therefore, even minor dysfunction associated with these muscles can create pain and decreased performance of everyday tasks. A rotator cuff injury can be caused by many everyday activities. These activities include traumatic events (e.g. fall on an outstretched arm, “yanking” of the arm), repetitive motion (e.g. throwing a ball, carrying children), and chronic improper posture (e.g. operating a computer, driving).

There are three major types of rotator cuff injuries that we treat successfully: 1. Rotator Cuff Muscle Tears: This is a partial tear of one or more of the four rotator cuff muscles. Rotator cuff muscle tears are often accompanied by deep achy pain in the shoulder and arm weakness.

2. Tendonitis: Tendons are at the ends of each muscle and attach the muscles to the bones they move. When there is inflammation of these tendons, it is called tendonitis. The symptoms of rotator cuff tendonitis often include trigger point pain over the tendon accompanied by deep, achy pain in the shoulder, and arm weakness.

3. Rotator Cuff Impingement Syndrome: Chronic injury of the rotator cuff can lead to a “pinching” of the nerves passing through the shoulder. This is commonly referred to as a shoulder impingement or rotator cuff impingement. Symptoms often include numbness, tingling, or sharp, shooting pain into the arm or hand.

HOW DO I HEAL MY SHOULDER PAIN?

The most common forms of medical treatment for rotator cuff injuries are anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, and surgery. Although meds and injections may reduce the severity of pain associated with rotator cuff dysfunction, they are not a long-term solution and may do more bodily harm than good in the long run. Surgery is a last resort and should only be used if there is irreparable damage to the shoulder that cannot be handled with proper rehabilitation.

First: Heal the Damaged Tissue Ending the pain caused by a rotator cuff injury requires stopping the cycle of inflammation that is creating the pain. Class IV laser therapy is an excellent method for this because it is presently the only modality that can both reduce inflammation and heal tissue simultaneously. During laser therapy, the infrared laser light interacts with tissues at the cellular level, increasing metabolic activity and improving the transport of nutrients across the cell membrane. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness, and pain. As the injured area returns to normal, pain is relieved and function is restored. If the injury is chronic and appears to be in a state of delayed healing, we couple our treatments with specialty lab testing to identify the underlying causes causing the chronic condition. Using functional lab testing, we are able to custom create a protocol to suit your body’s specific needs and dramatically expedite your healing process.

Second: Correct the Shoulder and Postural Mechanics Long-term pain relief of shoulder injuries involves rehabilitation of the shoulder, neck, and thoracic spine. Shoulder rehabilitation is achieved by utilizing specific postural adjustments, exercises, and specific posture stabilizing methods in order to re-establish proper motion and strength of the shoulder joint. Ongoing strengthening and stretching exercises are used to rehabilitate the musculature of the shoulder to ensure lasting results.

If you suffer from chronic pain, it is worth your while to spend some time figuring out which of any number of factors are contributing to your pain — we will help you explore which combination of therapies will help you heal it. The good news is you can do it without drugs, and you can get back to the activities you love!

Dr. Niele Maimone, DC is the owner and founder of Align Healing Center in Danville, CA. For more information or to set up a consult call 925-362-8283 or visit www.alignhealingcenter.com. Advertorial

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BREAST SURGERY - THE IMPORTANCE OF EXPERIENCE

By Dr. Barbara Persons

Breast surgery procedures consistently rank as the most requested procedures by women. There are various options when it comes to breast procedures: breast augmentation, breast reduction, mastopexy (breast lift), mastopexy augmentation, or breast reconstruction. Of all the breast procedures I perform, breast augmentation is the most popular. There are several implant options to consider with augmentation. Saline-filled implants are silicone shells filled with sterile salt water. Silicone-filled implants are silicone shells filled with plastic gel. Several styles of “Gummy bear” implants, or implants with a form stable silicone gel, are on the market which give women another option to consider. Another popular procedure is mastopexy. A mastopexy is a procedure to lift the breast and reposition the nipple in order to obtain a more youthful appearance. Often, an implant is placed to contour the breast. With the process of motherhood, weight gain, and aging, our breasts will undergo many changes. As we mature, our appearance and expectations grow with us, and many of my patients would like to look as young as they feel.

Before any procedure, there are a series of steps to go through that will ensure that you achieve your desired results. The first important question is why you want to have this procedure; this surgery should be about your wants and needs, not someone else’s. We have been raised to be selfless, and we teach others to be as well, but in this case, it’s okay to be selfish! I consult with female patients almost every day for a variety of breast procedures. Their reasons for wanting a procedure ranges from need for greater self-confidence and improved self-image, to correcting breasts that are asymmetrical, to reconstruction after breast cancer.

Our breasts are both physically and emotionally important to our image as women. Making the right choice in a partnership with a plastic surgeon can make all the difference. I strongly believe and encourage you to accept nothing less than a surgeon who is Board Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Note: It is not the same to claim that one is “Board Certified” in a different medical specialty or by a board that is not endorsed by the American Board of Medical Specialties. Any procedure involving the breasts demands the highest levels of experience, knowledge, care, and understanding.

Breast surgeries have always been an important focus in my practice. After my plastic surgery residency, I completed an additional fellowship which focused solely on aesthetic and breast surgery. I have presented papers and written chapters in published textbooks on the topic. I have placed hundreds of pairs of breast implants. I am proud of the extensive amount of time I have spent training and researching breast procedures.

So what should you expect when you come into my office for a consultation? After taking the time to get to know one another and have an examination, my goal is to understand your goal and to explain what we can do to realistically achieve your desired results. I will review your implant options and expertly advise you on the best style and size to achieve your goals. As a patient, know you have options. Find a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon who listens to you, who believes they can help you achieve your goals, and who presents you with all the information. As always, it would be my pleasure to discuss breast surgery with you in my Lafayette office and surgery center.

B arb ara L Pe r s o n s , M D, FAC S i s a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc., located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She can be reached at 925-283-4012 or drpersons@ personsplasticsurgery.com.

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March 2021 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 23

THE EYE OPENER

STYES

By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry

Medical & Surgical Dermatology For Healthy Skin Offering Treatments for: Skin Cancer Moles Precancerous Lesions Acne, Eczema, and Rashes Warts, Molluscum Keloid and Scar Revisions Psoriasis and Vitiligo Cysts and Lipoma Hair and Nail Disorder Underarm Sweating Physician-Strength Skin Care Products

There has recently been INTRODUCING a noticeable increase of EMSCULPT D patients with styes. I am ONLY FDA CLEARE not sure if it is related to ELECTROMAGNETIC an early allergy season, COVID-related issues, or ETING TECHNOLOGY TARG if it is just a coincidence, but the uptick in eyelid ABDOMINAL AND issues has been noticeable. Regardless, styes are FOR BODY GLUTEUS MUSCLES very common and happen in both sexes and all age PAD CONTOURING, FAT Offering Cosmetic Treatments for: groups. Most of the time, no oral drug treatment is LIFT! TT BU D AN N REDUCTIO Tattoo, Moles, Birthmarks, and Scars lpt needed unless the area affected is large and painful.

MScu DrWilliamTing.com/E Face, Neck, Body Tightening, The first distinction to be made is to define the Lifting, differences between a stye and a chalazion. A stye, and Rejuvenation Frown Lines and or hordeolum, is an infection or blocking of the Jawline Reduction glands that are at the edges of the eyelids. These Rosacea, Facial Redness, Veins, and infections are mostly caused by normal bacteria Post-injection Bruising that live on and around the eyes. Lid hygiene is very Pigmentation and Melasma Sun Damage and Scars important to keep the lids clean; for women, it is A place where beauty Body Sculpting very important to completely remove all makeup Thinning Hair and/or Balding and healthy skin meet around the eye as that can lead to clogged ducts. A Hair Removal Visit us at our Center of stye usually starts out as a localized area of swelling, Technology & Procedures Excellence with a combined irritation, and discomfort that can last for a few Offered 12,000 square foot, state Cellfina weeks and takes on the appearance of a pimple.

Cool Mini for neck of the art, newly renovated Styes do not directly cause decreased vision but Coolsculpting® Our Women’s suite. We are dedicated can cause some tearing and irritation which can Cryoshape Wellness Center to Medical, Cosmetic, and Diolite 532 laser blur your vision. I always recommend warm comnow offers EMSella, EMSculpt presses to help the stye express. The more you apply Surgical Dermatology and FDA approved noninvasive EMSella warm moist heat, the better. I recommend applying are a place for medical electromagnetic technology Excel V Laser compresses at least 15-20 minutes at a time. I have treatment (with clothes on) Excimer Laser skin consultation, aesthetic Fractional CO2 Laser for urinary incontinence found that boiling an egg or using “Hot Hands” rejuvenation, and face and GenesisPlus Laser and feminine intimate and then wrapping the item in a moist washcloth body contouring.

Infini Microneedling RF rejuvenation! works best because these items will hold their Models are used.

Kybella DrWilliamTing.com/EMSella heat for a long period of time. Simply putting the Liposonix® Visit www.DrWilliamTing.com Microneedling with PRP washcloth in the microwave does not work because for an extensive list of medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatments, MiraDry the cloth cools off too quickly and is of little use.

Mohs Micrographic Surgery product lines, lasers, and therapies offered.

Depending on the size and how solid the stye is, it NBUVB Phototherapy Pico Genesis can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks Schedule your free cosmetic consultation appointment today!

PicoSure Laser to resolve. A majority of the time, oral antibiotics William Ting, M.D., PRP for Hair Loss and Rejuvenation are not necessary, assuming there is some drainage Board Certified Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon Vbeam Laser 2262 Camino Ramon of the hordeolum and if the patient is not currently Silhouette InstaLift San Ramon, CA 94583 Spectra Laser ill. It is very important to not attempt to express Tel: (925) 328-0255 Superficial Radiotherapy TEXT us at (925) 328-0255 24/7 these on your own. Without correct diagnosis and Thermage™ treatment, styes can cause further issues and bacEmail: staff@caldermcare.com Ultherapy™ terial infections of the front part of the eye.

Vaser Shape drwilliamting.com VLase for Feminine Rejuvenation *Welcoming new Medicare patients By distinction, a chalazion is best described as a cyst in the deeper portion of the eyelid. It is caused by inflammation in the glands in the eyelids. Chalazions are much more common in the upper lids than the lower lids. These nodules, or cysts, generally are painless and don’t cause the tearing and irritation that styes cause. Topical and oral antibiotics are of little use because the root of the problem is not an infection. Chalazions don’t look like a stye because there is not a drainage channel for the contents to escape. Chalazions tend to take longer to resolve...for some people up to a few months. Again, warm compresses are recommended, but if there is no resolution, injection with steroids to help shrink the nodule or surgical excision are options. If excision is needed, it is done in office by an ophthalmologist with local anesthetic, and the recovery is quick.

As a general rule, most people use the word “stye” as a catch-all for both hordeolums and chalazions. When I see patients in the office, I can assess the situation and try to express the stye in the office. It might cause a little more discomfort initially but will ultimately help the process along. Because of the infectious nature of the stye and the bacteria present in the glands, I always prescribe an antibiotic drop to be used for a few days just as a prophylaxis against a conjunctivitis or TELECARE CONNECTS WITH THE HOMEBOUND Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assiscorneal infection. Most of the time, styes will heal on their own with persistent tance League® of Diablo Valley, have been making weekday reassurance calls, to use of warm compresses. However, it is very important to not just assume any seniors and the homebound in our community. Clients can anticipate a friendly eyelid bump is a stye or chalazion. More severe eyelid and systemic issues can exchange of ideas with trained volunteers who provide high quality, consistent mimic the initial appearance of a stye but require prompt medical treatment.

Anytime you have an eyelid bump of any kind, we can see you in the office and communications. If a client cannot be reached, family members will be notified.

This service is free! Additional TeleCare activities include an annual holiday initiate treatment or send you to a specialist if needed. party, and they also receive greeting cards from the Assisteens, an auxiliary where Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding tweens and teens learn to participate in a community service at a young age. service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at (925) 820-6622, Make that call to get you or someone you know connected! For more informaor visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165 in Alamo. For more information, call 925-934-0901. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s other tion, visit www.alamooptometry.com, and join in on Facebook, Instagram, and philanthropic programs, please visit www.assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley.

Twitter @Alamo Optometry.

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PAGE 24 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS •March 2021

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