2024 MAY ~ Alamo Today & Danville Today News

ORPHANED OR INJURED: LOCAL, LINDSAY WILDLIFE REHABILITATION HOSPITAL HELPS NATIVE FAUNA LIVE FREE

By Jody Morgan

From nurturing an orphaned hummingbird to repairing the wing of a bald eagle, Lindsay Wildlife Rehabilitation Hospital (LWH) staff and volunteers strive to enable native animals to thrive in their natural habitats. Founded in 1970, LWH is the first and one of the largest rehabilitation centers in the United States. Educating the public on how to keep California’s native wildlife wild and well is critical. An overwhelming majority of the 5,500+ patients treated annually by LWH are brought for care due to adverse interactions with humans.

In 1955, individuals supporting Alexander Lindsay’s passion for sharing the natural world with fellow Walnut Creek residents, particularly children, formed the Diablo Junior Museum Association. In 1962, the facility was renamed the Alexander Lindsay Junior Museum to honor his legacy. The rehabilitation hospital was established in response to the numerous injured and orphaned animals being brought to the museum. Connecting people with wildlife to inspire responsibility and respect for the world we share is the mission of the organization renamed Lindsay Wildlife Experience (LWE) in 2015.

The busiest time for LWH occurs April-August when wildlife is reproducing, and people are enjoying outdoor activities. Peter Flowers, Wildlife Hospital and Rehabilitation Manager, explains: “This increases the frequency of human/wildlife interaction and the likelihood of injury or illness as a result. The most important message to the public is to seek expert advice before proceeding with any action by contacting your local wildlife rehabilitation facility. Many times the best advice is to leave it alone despite the natural urge to help. Remember that wildlife is wild and sometimes the very act of helping can cause more harm.”

Call the Hospital Hotline at 925-659-8156 before you act. Expect a callback the same or next day. You can also email hotline@lindsaywildlife.org for advice. The hospital’s location is 1931 First Avenue, Walnut Creek.

“Found an Animal?” on the LWE website provides detailed instructions on what to do or refrain from doing for each of the many types of native animals the hospital treats. For example, fawns that may seem abandoned usually aren’t. “Does hide their babies for the first week of life so they can go off to feed, often for the entire day.” Injured adult deer cannot be treated. They cannot handle the stress and fear of captivity. Injured fawns can be brought to the

THE AP CAPSTONE PROGRAM: EQUIPPING STUDENTS WITH LIFELONG

SKILLS By Grace Tseng, Monte Vista High School, Junior

From cancer treatments, to lion conservation policies, to social capital predictions, to twins’ formation of identity–these are all topics that have been explored by students this year in the AP Research class at Monte Vista High School (MVHS). These hardworking young students have just finished their year-long projects: creating and presenting their own academic studies.

AP Research is the first of two year-long courses that comprise the AP Capstone program. Created by the College Board in 2014, the purpose of the program is to better prepare high school students with the necessary skills for college. When MVHS English teacher Stephen Brooks heard that the program was coming to MVHS in 2018, he jumped at the opportunity to teach it, given his background as a UC Davis English major and the research he had previously conducted at the University of Washington.

See AP continued on page 18

Releasing healthy wildlife back into their natural habitats is the goal of LWH staff and volunteers. Photo courtesy of LWE.

If parents don’t return to feed their young, babies like this opossum receive special diets at LWH. Photo courtesy of LWE.

AP Research student Lily Khodadadi works on her study in class.

BOULEVARD VIEW

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor and Publisher

Growing up in the 60s, 70s, and 80s I spent many a day and night reading books and magazines, playing board games, doing crafts, riding bicycles (we had a great tandem bike too!), and playing Kick the Can with the neighborhood kids. My childhood was on the cusp of personal computers and electronics coming into homes. We lived in the heart of the just-named “Silicon Valley.” My father was a product design engineer working at Hewlett Packard. Computers (and ones with screens) really weren’t a “thing” yet, but he occasionally brought home an Execuport terminal to dial into an HP timeshare computer in Cupertino (the HP campus was where the ring-shaped Apple Park headquarters now stands), which allowed us to play rudimentary games. To use the terminal, we’d dial a number with our rotary phone, and once we got a computer tone, the handset would be plugged into the side, and it would communicate with the mothership in Cupertino. There was no screen, everything was printed out on rolls of paper. I fondly remember there was a “hangman” word game, and also a “football” game we enjoyed. Each play we followed as the print-head slowly went back and forth printing out the player positions and each down.

While the technology was fun, it was limited. With four younger sisters, if I wasn’t reading or doing a solo activity, there was always someone ready to engage in a game. There were the classics like Monopoly, Yahtzee, Racko, Risk, and Scrabble. There were puzzles and card games. There were other games like Twister, Kerplunk, Hi-Ho-Cherry-O, and games based on TV shows like “The Six Million Dollar Man.” While the games were fun, they also taught us things like money and word skills.

We built and constructed with Lincoln Logs and Legos. There weren’t pre-set designs for our Legos, there were just a few shapes, sizes, and colors of bricks, and whatever we put together was something we came up with in our mind -- a house, an airplane...

When we weren’t playing games, we could craft to our heart’s content. We made latch-hook rugs, we had small colorful wire that we twisted and made into rings and bracelets, there was a mini loom with yarn, a mini plastic pottery wheel and a bead-making loom. We could cook in the Easy Bake Oven, and we had Doodle Art posters we could color that hung on the back of our bedroom door.

Reflecting, I realize the games weren’t about winning or losing, they were about quality time spent with friends and family in ways that are completely different than interacting via a screen -- be it a phone, computer, watch, or virtual reality device that is now ubiquitous.

I am overjoyed when I see the continued commitments in our communities to preserve, maintain, and upgrade our local parks, and provide places to gather and play.

Recently, I stopped by Alamo Plaza on Danville Blvd. in Alamo and noticed new-life being brought to the decades-old shopping space. There are comfortable sitting spaces with tables. To the left of the Post Office, there is a small spot for youngsters to play. It includes games like Connect 4, cornhole, and an oversized xylophone. There is new wall art on the once-plain beige bricks. I’m not sure what the overall plan is, but so far I’m thrilled to see this upgrade, and folks beginning to gather.

The Catalyst Project has also begun in downtown Danville. It is part of the Town’s goals to continually invigorate the area and include pedestrian safety improvements and community gathering spaces.

As the days are warming and the sun is out, take the opportunity to visit our local parks and community spaces, bring a friend and a board game to one of the outdoor parklets, or the Plaza, and pull up a chair!

Is your craft writing? Are you interested in covering positive news stories of local non-profits, community groups and happenings? I am beginning a search for a feature-story writer, if you have an interest in learning more, please send an email to editor@yourmonthlypaper.com

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DANVILLE COMMUNITY BAND

Follow the American flags to Oak Hill Park located at 3005 Stone Valley Road, Danville, and Celebrate our Veterans with the Danville Community Band during the Memorial Day Ceremony, from 10:30AM –2PM, May 27th . Enjoy the Band playing patriotic music, plus guest speakers, entertainment, and a celebration of past and present service members. Bring a picnic lunch and share this patriotic event with the whole family!

Also, mark your calendar for Danville Community Band’s free concert, “Broadway Then and Now.” Highlights include the music from Fiddler on the Roof, Rent, and Hamilton. The concert will take place at 3 PM on June 8 th at Community Presbyterian Church located at 222 W. El Pintado, Danville.

AAUW DAW GARDEN TOUR 2024

Register for the 2024 American Association of University Women

DAW Branch

Garden Tour taking place on Friday, May 10 th and Saturday, May 11 th from 10 AM-4 PM

Stroll through multiple gardens in Danville, Alamo, and Walnut Creek. Tickets are $45. Proceeds provide college scholarships for local women, STEM scholarships for middle school girls, and educational programs in our community.

For more information, and to purchase tickets, visit https://daw-ca.aauw.net/2024garden-tour

Danville Lions Club Presents A Taste of Danville

27th Annual Restaurant Walk & Beer & Wine Tasting Pavilion

June 4 th ~ 6 PM-8:30 PM

Enjoy tastes from over 19 great Danville restaurants and enjoy a trolley car ride to whisk you through downtown $30 for Restaurant Walk, $20 for Beer & Wine Tasting For tickets, use QR code at right, visit https://tinyurl.com/48ftc8j8, or e-clubhouse.org/sites/danvilleca or call 510-213-2530.

Proceeds to benefit Lions Club Charities, Lions Blind Center, and educational scholarships.

DANVILLE SEEKS VOLUNTEERS FOR COMMITTEES & COMMISSIONS

The Town of Danville is looking for residents who are interested in serving on one of several commissions and committees. Openings available to Danville residents for two and four year terms commencing on July 1, 2024:

Bicycle Advisory Commission – Two members (4-year terms) and one youth position (2-year term)

Heritage Resource Commission – One licensed architect member and one non-architect member (4-year terms)

County Connection Citizens’ Advisory Committee – One member (2-year term)

Applications are available at www.danville.ca.gov/Commission-Recruitment. The deadline to file an application is 4PM, Thursday, May 9th. Qualified applicants have the option to interview with the Town Council the morning of Tuesday, June 11th or the afternoon of Tuesday, June 18th

For additional information, contact City Clerk Marie Sunseri at 925-3143401 or cityclerk@danville.ca.gov.

119 SUGAR CREEK COURT, ALAMO | PENDING IN 12 DAYS

BEAUTIFUL VENUE FOR WEDDINGS, MEMORIALS, & EVENTS

Experience the perfect blend of serenity and celebration at Danville Congregational Church (www.danvillechurch.org) located at 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd. Our welcoming facility is more than just a space; it’s a warm embrace for your special moments. The lovely sanctuary, versatile reception halls, and fully equipped kitchens set the stage for unforgettable events. Conveniently located near the 680 freeway, our facility offers flexible rental options for up to 300 participants. For availability and pricing, please contact the office at 925-837-6944 or email dcc.events@danvillechurch.org

Wherever you are on life’s journey, we offer you a place of peace and hope. At Danville Congregational Church, we welcome you to a progressive spiritual community that is open and affirming.

ALAMO SUMMER CONCERT SERIES

Contra Costa County Public Works, Alamo Parks and Recreation, with support from the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council, present the 2023 “Alamo Summer Concert Series” at Livorna Park, in Alamo.

Livorna Park is located at the intersection of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue. This four-concert

series features live music from a variety of genres.

Concerts will take place on Friday evenings from 6:30PM-8:30PM and feature a schedule full of dynamic bands including:

June 28th - The Sun Kings

July 12th - The Houserockers

July 19th - Other Peoples Money

July 26th - Tainted Love

Bring family, friends, chairs, blankets, and a picnic dinner and enjoy an evening of music and dancing.

If special accommodation is required to participate in this event, please contact Alamo Recreation Staff at least 72 hours prior to the event date. You can reach the Alamo Recreation Staff at 925-313-2181 or visit www.cccounty.us/alamoparksandrecreation

DANVILLE “MUSIC IN THE PARK” CONCERTS

Enjoy the warm summer nights at a free evening show. Concerts will begin at 6PM at Oak Hill Park located at 3005 Stone Valley Rd. in Danville. Upcoming shows include:

June 22nd - MomoTombo (Latin Rock)

July 6th - Jackson Michelson (Country)

July 20th - Judd Hoos (Alternative, Indie, Rock)

August 3rd - Unauthorized Rolling Stones (Classic Rock) Join in for an evening of music and dancing. Bring chairs, blankets, and snacks and enjoy music in the park.

For questions, call 925-314-3400 or visit www.danville.ca.gov/calendar

VETERAN SERVICES BRING THE ‘OFFICE’ TO YOU

The Contra Costa County Veterans Services Office offers 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.

BE PREPARED!

SIGN UP FOR COMMUNITY WARNING SYSTEM ALERTS

Emergencies are inevitable, being prepared is paramount and can give you and your family an edge on knowing how to handle a situation.

Please come and shop!

Net proceeds benefit AWC & scholarships as we continue our efforts to support our community.

The Contra Costa Community Warning System (CWS) is one of the nation’s most modern and effective all-hazard community warning systems. You can receive alerts via phone calls, text messages, and email from the CWS in times of local emergencies such as gas leaks, fires, hazardous material incidents, law enforcement activities, and more that will include basic information about the incident and what specific protective actions (shelter in place, lock-down, evacuate, avoid the area, etc.) that are necessary to protect life and health.

Register to receive emergency alerts, and learn more at cwsalerts.com

Sponsored by

Thursday, May 23, 2024, 6-9pm

tasting ticket: $35 designated driver: $10

Purchase tickets at MuseumSRV.org or scan the QR code

WHAT'S HAPPENING AT THE MUSEUM OF THE SAN RAMON VALLEY IN MAY

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the world of gadgets at the Gadgets Galore exhibit! This captivating showcase invites history buffs, tech enthusiasts, and anyone enchanted by innovation to marvel at the remarkable evolution of everyday essentials. From Thomas Edison’s light bulb to the reinvention of the coffee maker, experience a unique perspective on the transformative power of human ingenuity. Immerse yourself in this tribute to curiosity and perseverance. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy this exhibit which closes on June 2!

This months virtual program to be held on May 16th at 11:30AM is on the Golden Gate Bridge. People called it “The Bridge That Couldn’t Be Built.” When first proposed in the 1910s, no suspension bridge had ever been built over such a distance, or, in such daunting openocean conditions. John Martini, noted local historian and author, will talk about the geography, the bizarre visions for bridging the water, the challenges overcome by its builders, and much more. The program is free, but registration is required. To attend, visit museumsrv.org, select “What’s On,” and then “Virtual Programs.”

Visit the Museum of the San Ramon Valley at 205 Railroad Ave, Danville, open Tuesday-Friday 1PM-4PM, Saturday 10AM-1PM, and Sunday noon-3PM For more information, visit museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750.

SONS IN RETIREMENT

SAN RAMON VALLEY BRANCH #128

Are you looking for an exciting way to stay active, make new friends, and enjoy your retirement? Join SIR 128 San Ramon Valley, a vibrant social organization for men over 50 who are retired or nearing retirement.

At SIR 128 San Ramon Valley, we believe retirement is an opportunity to pursue new interests, grow, and make new friends. We offer a diverse range of activities catering to every taste, including fishing, cycling, hiking, bocce ball, book clubs, walking, pickleball, and golf (both 9 and 18 holes). Additionally, we organize monthly outings to various locations, providing a great opportunity to have fun and make new connections. Our next outing is to Guide Dogs for the Blind.

Membership includes a monthly luncheon with engaging guest speakers. Meetings are held on the third Wednesday of the month at 11:30AM at the Bridges in San Ramon. If you’re interested in attending an upcoming luncheon as a guest, please email membership@sir128.com. To learn more about SIR 128 branch, visit www.SIR128.com

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.

Join in the first in-person meeting in four years! The meeting will be held at the Church of Jesus Christ LDS, 2949 Stone Valley Rd., Alamo, at 10AM on Tuesday, May 21st. It will be a business meeting in which members will vote on the new SRVGS Board for the next two years. There will be a social time and a buffet luncheon will be provided.

To learn more, or become a member of SRVGS, visit srvgensoc.org. For questions, email president@srvgensoc.org.

ALAMO MOVIES UNDER THE STARS

Contra Costa County Public Works, Alamo Parks and Recreation, with support from the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council, invite you to enjoy Movies Under the Stars at beautiful Livorna Park located at the intersection of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue in Alamo.

This summer two family-friendly films will be shown: The Super Mario Bros Movie, on Friday, June 21st and DC League of Super-Pets, on Friday, August 9th. Show-times are at 8:45PM

Bring family, friends, chairs, blankets, and flashlights. If special accommodation is required to participate in this event, please contact Alamo Recreation Staff at least 72 hours prior to the event date. You can reach the Alamo Recreation Staff at 925-313-2181, or visit www.cccounty. us/alamoparksandrecreation.

MOONLIGHT MOVIES

Bring your blankets, flashlights, chairs, and snacks and stake out a patch of lawn at the Town Green located at 420 Front St., Danville, to enjoy free Moonlight Movies presented by the Town of Danville. Activities start at 6PM, and the movie starts at 8PM or when dark enough to view the film. Upcoming screenings include:

June 14th - Aquaman

June 28th - Alladin (Live Action 2019)

July 12th - Angels in the Outfield

July 26th - Super Mario Bros Movie

For questions, call 925-314-3400 or visit www.danville.ca.gov/calendar

SRVUSD STUDENTS INVITED TO SUBMIT ARTWORK AND SHORT FILMS

The Town of Danville is seeking San Ramon Valley Unified School District (SRVUSD) middle school and high school students to submit original art designs for the Danville Community Pianos and original short films for the inaugural Student Film Festival. Submissions are due by May 24th at 10PM for the Community Pianos and by July 10th for the Student Film Festival. This opportunity is open to current middle school students and current high school students, including the graduating class of 2024 high school seniors. For the fifth year, two pianos will be re-painted with original student artwork and displayed at the Danville Community Center and Danville Senior Center. Artists working individually, or together as a team, who wish to participate in the project must submit colored sketches of their designs and may only submit one design sketch for consideration. For their sketch submission, artists must illustrate a concept appropriate for public display, and the sketch should be a clear representation of what the final painted piano project will look like.

Middle and high school students, including 2024 graduating seniors, are also invited to submit an original film that may be shown at the Town’s inaugural Student Film Festival on August 2nd at 6:30PM at the Village Theatre & Art Gallery. The film length must be 10 minutes long, or less, rated PG, have less than a $100 budget, and feature student actors. Applications and the accompanying flash drive are due by July 10th and applicants will be notified if their film has been selected for the festival beforehand.

Please visit the art gallery website for more information and details, including photos of past pianos and application forms at www.danville. ca.gov/arts. Submit original designs for community pianos to artgallery@ danville.ca.gov. For film submissions, please drop off a flash drive to the Village Theatre & Art Gallery located at 233 Front St., Danville.

Visit the Village Theatre website at www.danville.ca.gov/vtshows for more information and the application for the film festival.

For more information, contact Performing Arts Coordinator John Dunn at jdunn@danville.ca.gov or 925-314-3418.

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SAN RAMON VALLEY HIGH

By Hailey Gunderson, San Ramon Valley High School, Junior

The finish line is in sight! With just one month left of school, the Wolves are wrapping up the year strong. Spring sports are advancing into EBAL and NCS championships, seniors are participating in exciting senior activities, the performing arts are culminating the year with spring performances, and students are working hard in the classroom.

Spring sports teams are competing well and gearing up for league playoffs in the coming weeks. On April 19th, we celebrated over 35 athletes on National Letter of Intent Day (NLI), where they signed to continue their athletic and academic career at the collegiate level. We are so proud of all of our athletes!

Seniors are concluding their high school experience with many exciting activities. During the week of April 22nd, the seniors participated in senior games, which is a fun-filled week of lunch time competitions ranging from tug-of-war, relay races, IQ tests, kajabe can-can, and more. On May 11th, the seniors will head to the California Academy of Sciences for Senior Ball. Finally, on May 19th, the senior class will depart for their Disneyland Trip on buses. Upon arriving, they will enjoy an entire night at the theme park with hundreds of other high school students from all around California.

The performing arts are ending the year strong as well. In April, Theater 4 presented an amazing performance called She Kills A Monster, filled with drama, humor, and mythical beasts. The spring dance show was recently held and the SRV dance department showcased their talent with all dances performed and choreographed solely by the students themselves.

We are incredibly proud to announce that three students from our Speech and Debate Team headed to the State Speech and Debate tournament in Clovis a few weeks ago, all coming away with incredible results. Megan Nguyen placed 15th in Oratory speaking, Dana Azab placed 11th in Impromptu speaking, and Molly Schinnerer won the California High School Speech Association (CHSSA) Student of the Year and a $1,000 scholarship. Congratulations ladies!

Lastly, students are wrapping up the school year strongly in the classroom. Students are studying hard for AP tests and finals.

Final festivities to wrap up the school year include the Frosh Night where freshmen enjoyed dinner and a night full of casino themed games, as well as the Aloha Rally on May 17th to celebrate the end of another amazing year at SRV and to say farewell to the seniors.

SRV hopes everyone has a wonderful end to the school year!

MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal

It seems like April simply flew by. I have a ton of great news to share from the past few weeks about our Monte Vista (MV) community and the accomplishments of our students.

Our first week back from Spring Break brought exciting news as MV’s Robotics team qualified for the World Robotics Competition in Houston, Texas for the first time since 2009. The team traveled to Texas and competed with over 600 schools. While they did not fare as well at this level, our students shared that they learned a lot about the level of competition they need to have and will be ready next year for another visit to the World Tournament.

On April 12th, MV students participated in the Day of Silence which spreads community support of our LGBTQ students. The day concluded with our annual Gayla Prom, which was hosted at MV and included students from across our district and our region. A special thank you to MV’s GSA Advisor, Heather Slipka, for organizing the event and to Aki Lewis Realty, SRVEA, and PFLAG for their generous donations towards this amazing event.

On April 17th, sixteen Monte Vista Athletes signed letters of intent to compete at the college level. Women’s sports included basketball, cheer, cross-country/ track, golf, soccer (4), water polo (2), and wrestling. Men’s sports included baseball, football (2), lacrosse, and soccer. Congratulations to this amazing group of student athletes.

On April 18th, MV hosted a visit from the AASA Leadership Network which

EMBRACE FLUTE STUDY THIS SUMMER

By Karen Van Dyke

Ahh, summer at last! As the academic calendar winds down (or explodes, as is often the case), we are afforded the opportunity to slow down, regroup, and adjust our schedules and priorities. How nice to have time to put into focus areas of our lives that get back-burnered during the bulk of the school year.

All too often, for many, artistic endeavors are relegated to the bottom of the priority list. Summer is a fantastic time to correct this -- to break out that easel, join a dance class, or make practicing and studying an instrument part of your routine. Middle school and high school students who already study an instrument but do not have a private teacher benefit tremendously from ramping up their musical studies in the summer, and can get a jump-start, under the tutelage of a qualified private teacher, on preparations for all-state band auditions coming up in the fall. Likewise, adult amateurs who have long been meaning to become reacquainted with their childhood instrument often find immeasurable personal growth through reigniting the musical pistons of their brains in private study.

There is good news for flute players…my flute studio has a few openings for both in-person and on-line instruction. Lessons cover tonal work, technique, musicianship, interpretation, performance skills, and sight reading through examination of the classical solo repertoire. All ages and levels are welcome. All-state and college music major/minor hopefuls, school band students, adult amateurs, and total beginners thrive in my studio.

A resident of Danville, I am a lecturer in the Music Department at Stanford University, where I founded the 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 30 years as Director of Northern California Flute Camp, an international summer program for students ages 12-18 held in Carmel Valley (www.flutecamp.com). In my 35+ years of private teaching, my students have occupied the flute sections of all-state, county, and area youth ensembles, 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

held a three day conference hosted by our district. The conference focused on social and emotional learning. Our visiting team had the opportunity to hear from our students about MV’s many supportive programs as well as from our SWIT team and they were able to tour our Wellness Center.

On April 27th, MV’s Senior Ball was held at City Hall in San Francisco. As always, our students enjoyed this annual, amazing event. We are so grateful for the many parents, staff, and student volunteers who made this event such a success.

On May 6th, MV students begin their two weeks of Advanced Placement exams which cover a variety of subject areas and disciplines. Students scoring well on these exams can enter participating colleges and universities with transferable college units.

MVs Dance program kicks off a busy May for the visual and performing arts, with their Spring Performance from May 8th - May 10th. MV’s Choir will close out their concert year with their annual Pops Concerts May 16th -18th in the MV theater. Finally, MV’s Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, Jazz Bands, and Symphonic Band will perform their annual Spring Concerts on May 29th and 31st

MV’s athletic teams are also enjoying excellent spring seasons headlined by MV’s Track and Field and Swimming teams as well as Men’s Lacrosse. All three programs are experiencing great seasons and are aiming for EBAL and NCS banners. MV Women’s Lacrosse, Men’s Volleyball, Baseball, Softball, Tennis, and Golf are all currently battling for NCS playoff spots, as well. There should be a great deal of action for the Mustangs as they complete their EBAL seasons and enter the NCS playoffs and beyond.

As we enter the final month of the school year, MV’s students and faculty thank our community for their support throughout the 2023-24 school year. We look forward to a great culmination of the school year with a big celebration of our Graduating Class of 2024 at our Commencement Ceremony on Thursday, June 6th at 6PM

THE GATTI REPORT: YOUR GREATER DANVILLE AREA REAL ESTATE UPDATE

By Joe Gatti

The rush for the spring real estate market finally hit in April with more properties entering the market, and buyers interested in finding their new home to coincide with our upcoming summer. If you’re considering selling or buying a home in the months ahead, please reach out to the Gatti team. Our Team with Compass combines over 60 years of Greater Danville Area experience with the #1 Real Estate Brokerage in the United States. We strive for personalized, local, and proven real estate expertise tailored just for you. In April, we saw further evidence of sticky inflation. The Consumer Price Index (CPI) for March came out on April 10 th and inflation once again came in higher. Markets were forecasting 3.4%, but the official CPI number came in at 3.5%. Interest rates started April hovering near 7%. After the report came out, interest rates increased due to the anticipation that the Federal Reserve will hold their base rate for longer into 2024. As of this writing, CNBC had the 30 year fixed mortgage rate at 7.38%,* just when a significant increase of new listings entered our local market.

The week the CPI report was released, the number of “coming soon” or active properties in Danville fluctuated in the mid-60 range for all types of properties publicly available. Two weeks later, on April 23 rd , the number of “coming soon” or active properties in Danville had increased to 103.** This is close to a 40% increase. With the inventory up, compared to previous lows this year, if a property is priced correctly, and satisfies the qualifications of multiple buyers, the results are very encouraging for sellers.

In order to provide you with a concrete example, look at the left listing below, that we are representing at 317 Bolero Drive in Danville. Located in the neighborhood I grew up in during my middle school and high school years, it’s located a few blocks from Charlotte Wood Middle School, Osage Park, and is a brisk 2.9 mile run for me from downtown Danville. The seller took all of our advice regarding preparing the property for market. Our team installed staging, retouched landscaping, and we went through our marketing process regarding timing, photography, and our full listing campaign. The property went on the market April 5 th , and we had an extended series of open house showings that following weekend. The seller ultimately received eight qualified offers for the home. Each represented by buyers agents that submitted full offer packages for our team to review with the seller. The home went pending April 10 th , significantly over asking, after five days on the market. This showcases that in an environment of higher interest rates and still low inventory, what the right market strategy and presentation can do in the selling of a local home.

If you’re thinking of selling and have any questions on real estate, please contact us for a FREE no obligation estimate of the value of your home. We are here to help!

I hope you found this article helpful. I’ve been serving our real estate community for 12 years. Ron Gatti, my business partner and father, has been a full-time real estate professional for over 40 years, all in the greater Danville area. We both are Associate Brokers with Compass out of the 760 Camino Ramon, Suite 200 office in Danville. If you have any real estate questions during this extraordinary time or have questions about this article, please email GattiRealEstate@gmail.com or call Joe Gatti at 925-588-3590. Our services are here for you!

*https://www.cnbc.com/quotes/US30YFRM?qsearchterm=30%20year

**Data taken from the MLS during specific dates and under the cr iteria mentioned within the article.

COUNTY PUBLIC WORKS ANNOUNCES

NEW DIRECTOR

By County Supervisor Candace Andersen

In February of this year, the Board of Supervisors appointed Warren Lai as the new Contra Costa County Public Works Director. Mr. Lai has a background in Civil Engineering and began his career with Public Works in 1998 as an Entry Level Engineer. He has spent 26 years serving Contra Costa County residents in various capacities.

The Board of Supervisors appointed Warren after former Public Works Director, Brian Balbas, announced his retirement at the end of 2023. Brian had been serving as the Director of the Department since February of 2018.

The Public Works Department (CCCPWD) has a wide range of responsibilities in the County. They oversee 660 miles of roads, 150 miles of streams, channels, and other drainage, and over 150 County buildings.

Public Works also provides services such as parks and recreation, sandbag distribution, and flood control throughout unincorporated areas of Contra Costa County. They operate two airports, Buchanan Field Airport in Concord and Byron Airport in Byron. Public Works plays a crucial role in our County, administering many services we rely upon, whether on a daily basis, or in times of emergency.

In Alamo, the Special Districts division of Public Works oversees all of the parks including Andrew H. Young, Livorna, and Hemme Station Park. They also work with the Town of Danville to maintain Hap Magee Park, which is jointly owned by Danville and the County.

While our Planning Department (Conservation and Development) is where most people begin when starting to build or remodel a home, many discretionary permits (i.e. Subdivision, Land Use Permit, or Development Plans require Public Works approval.

Other Public Works permits include those for drainage related work

KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY

The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets every Thursday at noon at Black Bear Diner located at 807 Camino Ramon in Danville. New and prospective members are welcome!

The Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville and participates in many community service projects. 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

LOCAL ROTARY CLUBS

The Rotary Club of Alamo meets the 2nd, 4th, and 5th Wednesdays at 12:15PM at Round Hill Country Club, visit their Facebook page “Rotary Club of Alamo.” More information is also available at alamorotary.org, alamorotary@ hotmail.com, or by calling 925-718-6601. The Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley meets at Fat Maddie’s located at 3483 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville on the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays from 7PM-8:30PM. For more information, call Valerie Munoz at 925-683-6310 or visit www.sanramonvalleyrotary.com. The Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/San Ramon meets Wednesdays from 5:15PM-6:40PM at Amador Rancho Community Center. For more information, call 925-998-2924. The Danville San Ramon Rotary Club meets Tuesdays at the LAB meeting room at Roundhouse located 2600 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. Meetings are held at 7AM on the 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, noon on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays, and no meetings in months with a 5th Tuesday. For more information call 925-997-6664.

EXCHANGE CLUB

affecting the flood control system, road closures, permits for construction work and events that require the use of public right of way, for moving/transporting heavy and oversized loads and others. During times of flooding in the County, Public Works leads the way, providing sandbags through several stations throughout the County. Thanks to the formation of the Countywide Landscaping District, Public Works also provides landscape maintenance, including improvements such as irrigation, park and recreational facilities, including but not limited to lights, playground equipment, play courts, public restrooms, and related facilities.

Public Works also covers streetlight maintenance and maintains the lights within the County’s jurisdiction. Public Works coordinates with Pacific Gas & Electric (PG&E) and city offices to determine which agency is responsible for installing or repairing streetlights within and outside the County’s Lighting District.

Public Works has been developing technology to fix nuisances we might encounter in our community. No one likes to experience these inconveniences but may be unaware of where to turn to have these problems fixed. With the CCCPWD “Mobile Citizen” app, reporting such matters has never been easier. Mobile Citizen allows residents “on the go” to report non-emergency maintenance matters, such as potholes, graffiti, illegal dumping, and other service requests in unincorporated communities, to the CCCPWD. The process is simple. Download the app, register, take a photo, provide comments and other details about the location, and then submit to Public Works. The submitted request is automatically assigned a unique Work Request number and then sent to the appropriate division of Public Works for follow up. The app is free and available on Android and iOS systems. Go to the App Store to download the app for iPhone and iPad, or go to the Google Play store to download the app for Android smart phones and tablets.

While Mobile Citizen was designed to empower citizens for non-emergency issues, if you have a request that is an emergency, call 925-313-2000 during business hours. For emergencies after business hours call 925-646-2441.

For more information on the Mobile Citizen app, current building or road construction projects, or other Public Works matters, visit www.cccpublicworks.org

Please contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes Alamo, Blackhawk, Canyon, Danville, Diablo, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Rossmoor, San Ramon, Tassajara Valley, and parts of unincorporated Walnut Creek. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos.cccounty.us or 925-655-2300.

THRIFT STATION SEEKS NEW VOLUNTEERS

Volunteers, 18 years and older, are needed at The Thrift Station in Danville. This year the store celebrates over 50 years of serving the local community, selling new and gently used donations. Store proceeds support the exceptional, low-cost, broad-reaching mental health services provided by Discovery Counseling Center of the San Ramon Valley. Discovery’s mental health services are integrated into all San Ramon Valley public schools. The Thrift Station is an all-volunteer organization of dedicated, welcoming, and enthusiastic volunteers supported by a large, loyal customer base.

The store is open Monday through Saturday from 10AM to 4PM, and is located at 486 San Ramon Valley Blvd. in the Crossroads Shopping Center in Danville -- next to Los Panchos restaurant. The phone number is 925-820-1988.

If you are interested in joining the warm and welcoming volunteer family, please complete the application form at www.discoveryctr.net/the-thrift-station or email the Membership VP at Thriftvols@gmail.com. You can also stop by the store and apply in person by filling out a blue form kept near the front register. Volunteers agree to work two 3-hour shifts a month. Come join the family of volunteers!

NEIGHBORHOOD WATCH

Neighborhood Watch is a community action and problem-solving program, and one of the most effective means available for resolving issues within the community. Through organized problem-solving activities, your block can remove crime from your neighborhood and address community issues of concern.

The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month at The Grille at Blackhawk, located at 3540 Blackhawk Plaza Circle in Danville. Sign-in and social time begin at 11:30AM. The meeting starts promptly at noon and ends promptly at 1PM. The one-hour program features guest speakers and business networking. Guests are welcome with luncheon reservations. The cost is $30. For reservations and information, please contact Karen Stepper at 925-998-8865 or coachstepper@yahoo.com

The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff will be hosting meetings via Zoom. If you have any questions or are interested in finding out more information, please email the Community Services Unit at csu@so.cccounty.us

Alamo Municipal Advisory Council Presents 2024 Movie Under the Stars

Movie starts at 8:45 p.m.

Livorna Park in Alamo

(Located at the corner of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue)

Admission is Free

SUMMER NIGHT

Friday, June 21st

VALLEY VIGNETTE

BACK TO SCHOOL NIGHT

Friday, August 9th

By Beverly Lane

MEXICAN ERA RANCHERO JOSE MARIA AMADOR

TO THE ALAMO COMMUNITY

Alamo Rotary extends our heartfelt gratitude to Alamo and the surrounding communities for making the Alamo Rotary Easter Egg Hunt a huge success. There were over 1,500 people in attendance at Livorna Park on Saturday, March 30th . The weather cooperated beautifully, the rain cleared up and the park dried just in time for a picture-perfect day. The morning was filled with joy as eager kids awaited the start of the hunt. Games, balloons, face painting, and delightful interactions with the Easter Bunny made the atmosphere even more festive. Our dedicated Rotarians added to the cheer with their warm hospitality, serving coffee and donuts to all.

A special thank you to each attendee, volunteer, and sponsor whose unwavering support made this fun morning possible. We extend our deepest gratitude to our Major Sponsors: John Muir Health, Stone Valley Center - Alamo, Bach Group @ Morgan Stanley, Jack & Linda Thompson, Law Office of Joan Grimes, Carol & Ken Soult, Round Hill Country Club, Waldron Partners, Neumann Capital Management, LLC, Jill Fusari, and Alamo Ace Hardware. Heartfelt appreciation goes to the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Department and the firefighters for their presence. We welcomed the Fire Engine that brought joy to the kids. Special recognition goes to Scout troops T216 and T236, and the dedicated Alamo Rotary Club event chairs: Katia Atanassov, Peter Waldron, Tom Carman, Joan Grimes, Jack Thompson, Dick Olsen, Ken Soult, Alan Fahrenkrog, Beth & Bill Randall, Dana Wellington, Chris Lindgren, Steve Larmore, Lauren Louie, and countless others who contributed their time and efforts, including Mary Ellen Mancion, Lou Plummer, Jen Newton, Margy Lyman, Dale Bridges, Ted Johnson, Bart Gledhill, John Hansen, Carolyn and Brian Thiessen, Mark Kahn, Jan Robinson, Jean Mello, Jack Thompson, and Sharon Schuyler.

We are actively seeking new members! If you are passionate about making a positive impact in our community and beyond, consider becoming a part of the Alamo Rotary Club family. To learn more about the Alamo Rotary Club and how to become a member, visit www.alamorotary.org

Looking back about 200 years, today’s City of San Ramon was once called Rancho San Ramon. Californio ranchero Jose Maria Amador owned and managed this 22,000-acre rancho which had a large headquarters in today’s Dublin. It included gardens, a two-story adobe home, corrals, and cottages for workers. The home was located at the northwest corner of Dublin Blvd. and San Ramon Road. Vast numbers of Amador cattle, horses, and sheep grazed the San Ramon, Dougherty, and Tassajara Valleys. Who was this man called Amador? Today his name graces a valley, a local high school, and in the Sierras, a city and county. The Amador family were early Spanish pioneers. Patriarch, Pedro Amador, came to Alta California with the first Spanish invasion in 1769, led by Gaspar Portola and Junipero Serra. He was a respected soldier who helped found Mission San Jose in 1797 and led troops in numerous Indian battles. Jose Maria Amador was the son of Pedro and Maria Noriega Amador. He was born at the San Francisco Presidio in 1794. He learned to read and write from his mother at a time when most soldiers were not literate. Jose Amador became a soldier like his father and went on several military expeditions. California’s Rancho era began when the Mexican Revolution succeeded in 1821. The new government ended the mission system and carved mission land into rancho grants. Beginning in the 1830s, over 800 Mexican ranchos were formally granted in Alta California and provided to former soldiers. Amador served as the administrator of Mission San Jose several times and was granted the land which became Rancho San Ramon in 1834. Married three times, he said he was the father of 22 children. Amador knew the San Ramon Rancho area very well and began living there in 1826. The Rancho covered the northern part of the Alameda Creek and Tassajara Creek watersheds. An industrious man, he built several adobe homes, and his headquarters was described as a “mini-mission” by some because his Indian and Mexican workers not only supervised livestock grazing, but also produced furniture, wagons, harnesses, soap, saddles, and boots.

In 1848, with the discovery of gold and Mexico’s defeat in the Mexican American War, Alta California was transformed. From a population of about 14,000 non-Indians, American California grew to over 200,000 by the mid-1850s. Amador mined for gold himself in an area which is named for him, Amador County.

American settlers came into the San Ramon Valley, and, seeing an expanse of land with some cattle scattered on the hills, decided to squat on Amador’s property. Since he was unable to move the cattle and needed cash, he began to sell land. Amador first sold a league on the northwestern side (about 4,450 acres) in 1850-51 to Leo Norris, shortly after California’s statehood. Then he sold land to Michael Murray, Samuel Russell, Joel and Minerva Harlan, and others. Finally, James Witt Dougherty and William Glaskin bought 10,000 acres from him for 22 cents an acre in December of 1852.

Amador’s lifetime covered California’s Spanish, Mexican, and American periods. At the Bancroft Library, his story is told in a long oral history titled Recollections which provides detailed information and intriguing insights into the state’s history. This history may be found on the web. In an 1875 newspaper interview he said “It is my wish that my reputation should be preserved and that it be said Amador wronged no man.”

Sources: Images and information from Museum of the San Ramon Valley archives, Recollections Concerning the History of California by Jose Maria Amador, and the Bancroft Library at UC Berkeley.

Jose Maria Amador, 1794-1883.

Amador’s San Ramon Rancho in two counties.

Conceptual drawing of the Amador adobe by John Hamel.

Bring blankets, chairs, family, and friends. If you require an accommodation to participate in this event, please call (925) 313-2181 at least 72 hours prior to the event date. This program is not sponsored by the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. Approval to distribute flyers is a community service and does not imply endorsement. Food sales within park prohibited and no pop-up canopies shall be allowed.

CLIP NOTES By

Jody Morgan

Can a herd of hulking herbivores help regenerate biodiversity? Isabella Tree describes their beneficial impact on habitat restoration in her 2018 book Wilding: Returning Nature to Our Farm. Tree and her husband Charles Burrell made a valiant effort to make Knepp, the estate his family had farmed for generations, succeed as a profitable agricultural enterprise before deciding to let nature heal their land.

Exchanging domestic dairy cattle and horses for free-ranging breeds with ancient lineage was an important part of the process. But the first step taken at Knepp, situated just 44 miles from central London, involved ridding the soil of the chemical amendments years of intensive modern farming had introduced. Tree explains: “Most of the soil in the UK, on which our native flora evolved, is naturally poor so our land had to be returned to its original ‘unimproved’ state. That meant reducing the levels of nitrates and phosphates that, for decades, had been added to the soil to drive the growth of our arable crops.”

Once Knepp had an extensive meadow of native vegetation to nourish them, Isabella and Charles acquired English longhorn cattle and Exmoor ponies and turned them loose to graze and breed without human intervention. Recognizing the impossibility of recreating an ecosystem from the past, they nevertheless wanted to have herbivores that could thrive without the powerful drugs commonly used to keep livestock healthy on British farms. English longhorns, unrelated to Texas longhorns, trace their heritage back to oxen used in 16th and 17th century England. The Exmoor horses qualify as a true aboriginal breed boasting fossil remains dating back as far as 50,000 B.C.

Some of the earth’s humblest creatures immediately partnered with the hefty, drug-free herds to improve the land. Tree writes: “Dosing livestock and pets with parasiticides that pass into their excrement, killing any insect that eats it, including dung beetles, is one of the most serious problems affecting our soils. The process of a dung beetle’s tunnelling, eating, and digesting adds organic matter, increases soil fertility, aeration and structure, and improves rainwater filtration and the quality of groundwater run-off. Ironically, by

eating the parasites harbored in dung and by swiftly processing the dung itself, dung beetles also reduce the transmission of parasites and hence the need for chemical livestock wormers.”

The intricate relationship between healthy herbivores and other lifeforms is demonstrated on properties preserved by the John Muir Land Trust. “Cows, Conservation, and California: A Story of Grazing for Good”, posted on the JMLT website (2/12/2024) reports: “One key benefit of grazing is increased habitat diversity. California’s grasslands, once dominated by native species, are now overrun by invasive grasses. These invaders crowd out native plants, leaving little room for the animals that depend on them. Grazing cattle act like natural lawnmowers, munching down on invasive grasses and creating space for native wildflowers and plants to thrive.” Strategically determining where grazing cattle should provide biodiversity services while protecting unique species like the Mount Diablo Fairy Lantern is part of a meticulously crafted plan. On a 30-acre preserve near Hercules, the hooves of grazing cattle churn divots creating the tiny vernal pools of water that keep Contra Costa County’s last-known stand of goldfields (Lasthenia conjugens) blooming. The vibrant yellow wildflowers had almost vanished from the landscape when JMLT acquired the land.

The 3,500-acre Knepp experiment begun in 2001, includes hedgerows and woodlands, as well as meadows. Invasive plants arrive, but never survive more than a few seasons. Countless endangered species of birds, insects, and all manner of creatures great and small visit and reproduce. Clouds of rare butterflies delight in daylight hours. Nightingales sing through the night. “We had been given a ringside seat at one of nature’s greatest spectacles,” Tree exclaims, “thanks to sitting on our hands and keeping the glyphosate under lock and key.”

The first butterfly count in 2005 recorded 13 species. By 2017, the count had increased to 34. In 2016, the tally of moth species reached 441. Between 1967 and 2007 the UK population of nightingales plummeted by 91%. By 2008, they were back in force at Knepp.

“Rewilding -- giving nature the space and opportunity to express itself -- is largely a leap of faith. It involves surrendering all preconceptions, and simply observing what happens. Rewilding Knepp is full of surprises, and the unexpected outcomes are changing what we thought we knew about some of our native species’ behavior and habitats -- indeed it is changing the science of ecology,” Tree explains.

SPRING IN DANVILLE PROMISES COMMUNITY FESTIVITIES & FUN FOR THE FAMILY

The Town of Danville welcomes the community to enjoy a diverse lineup of spring activities. From an evening stroll to a morning run, people from all walks of life will find something fun to do in Danville this spring.

The spring Sip & Stroll is fast approaching. It is an event that invites participants to meander through the heart of Danville, sampling local wines and gourmet bites. This event, hosted by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce in partnership with the Town, takes place on Thursday, May 9th from 5:30PM to 8:30PM. Tickets are available at www.danvilleareachamber.com/spring-sip-stroll

On Sunday, May 18th, the Danville Community Center becomes a tapestry of cultures at Danville Goes Global, organized by the Danville Youth Council. Taste exotic flavors, engage in exciting sports and creative crafts, and immerse yourself in traditions from around the world. Pre-registration is required and available online at www.danville.ca.gov/recguide.

Devil Mountain Run on Sunday, May 19th offers participants a chance to set personal goals and enjoy the collective energy of a community in motion. With 5K, 10K, kids, and dog-friendly race options through Downtown Danville, this event is perfect for both a seasoned marathoner and a casual walker. Register today at www.devilmtnrun.com

For those with a penchant for craft brews and local shopping, Shops & Hops on Thursday, May 23rd is an event not to be missed. Hosted by the Museum of the San Ramon Valley in partnership with the Town, this experience pairs the charm of Danville’s boutiques with the craftsmanship of local breweries. Purchase your tickets today at www.museumsrv.org/shops-hops

Lastly, join in at the Memorial Day Remembrance taking place at 10AM on Monday, May 27th, at Oak Hill Community Park (located at 3005 Stone Valley Rd., Danville), as we gather to pay tribute to our veterans who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to us and our country. For information on these events, visit www.danville.ca.gov/calendar.

DISCOVER DIABLO

Save Mount Diablo’s (SMD) Discover Diablo program offers an annual series of free activities that include hikes, family walks, rock climbing events, trail runs, mountain biking events, property tours, and more. Join SMD in exploring the Bay Area’s beautiful wild lands and open spaces! Discover Diablo is a public outings program led by staff and volunteer naturalists that offers various outdoor activities including guided interpretive family walks, hikes, and property tours. These events are open to any and all trailblazers looking to get out in nature. All hikes are free, but in order to create the best experience and least impact on the environment, capacity is limited and advanced registration is required. Property tours are led on SMD conserved sites. These are unique opportunities to explore privately-held lands that are otherwise closed to the public. Join these tours to learn more about the special ecological and cultural features of each conserved site. The goal of Discover Diablo is to connect people to nature through outdoor recreation and to build awareness of both the land conservation movement and the importance of permanently protecting open spaces. Through this program, the aim is to reach new audiences, grow the membership base, and spark a passion for Diablo’s wild, natural lands in the youngest of trailblazers.

To learn more, visit tinyurl.com/mt2tjpvp

Stop by “Danville Goes Global on May 18 th

QUICK TRIPS By

Linda Summers Pirkle

BEYOND BEAUTY: IRVING PENN’S 60 YEAR CAREER

If you have driven to San Francisco recently, you may have noticed a billboard on the right-hand side of the freeway as you exit the Bay Bridge. Though not as flashy as many of the other ads sharing the same real estate, the sign depicting a young Audrey Hepburn is nonetheless captivating. Her large brown eyes gaze directly at you and in her signature style, she appears both regal and tomboyish. Even if you did not know who she was, the headshot is striking. She is wearing a crew neck black sweater. Her eyes are shining and she is smiling. Her right hand gently cups her chin and part of her face. She looks like she may have just asked a question when the photo was taken and is genuinely interested in hearing the answer. The iconic photo, taken in 1951 by Irving Penn (1917-2009), is a perfect representation of the Irving Penn Exhibit at the deYoung museum. I was thrilled to attend the press preview featuring the photographic genius Irving Penn whose career spanned over 60 years.

Irving Penn was one of the most celebrated American artists of the 20th century and is famous for his diverse body of photographs. If you are living and breathing, you have likely seen Penn’s work. His cover shots and layouts in Vogue magazine began in the late 1950s and his portraits of the celebrities of the mid-twentieth century are legendary.

Penn’s recognizable fashion photos are described in the museum catalog this way, “Penn concentrated solely on the models, cocooned in pearly light. The wrestling images have the simplicity and quiddity of ancient objects and instant classics, bringing to mind other goddesses in other dress–the Venus de Milo does not seem too far-fetched.”

In addition to fashion, Penn’s portrait photography is a fascinating historical portfolio of Who’s

Who of the mid-twentieth century. His subjects were poets, writers, actors, and artists, including Truman Capote, Spencer Tracy, Salvador Dali, Marlene Dietrich, Alfred Hitchcock and many more. Penn’s prominence made the invitation to sit for a portrait a “badge of prestige.”

Although it was a great honor to be photographed by Penn, some luminaries of the day arrived at the photo session with a bit of trepidation, and rightly so. Penn, with his disarming demeanor and monk-like aesthetic could break down the sitter’s personal armor and public persona. “The important thing is to get past the public facade (of the famous sitter who arrives) with an image of himself,” said Irving Penn in an interview.

The portrait photos, according to our curator, were so intensely personal that one famous sitter suggested Penn destroy the portrait he took of her.

His technique is described at the exhibit this way: “Over coffee, Penn observed his subjects closely, forming an opinion of character and noting how they carried themselves and their fame, and as he did the shape of his picture began to form in his mind. At the shoot, as he began to advance the film, he gently encouraged the sitter. Gradually his soft murmurs of support and hypnotic power of his focused attention induced a gathering of momentum, and their photos, and the session took on a life of its own.”

Curator and author Maria Morris Hambourg wrote, “Penn’s portraits resemble none other. Psychologically intense yet elegant and exquisitely composed, they place the sitters in a preternaturally limpid calm. The cool light falling across their shapely forms renders them axiomatic, like irreducible, natural facts. These immediately recognizable qualities evolved as solutions to the demands of the printed page and also in response to the idiosyncrasies of Penn’s artistic personality.”

The Irving Penn Exhibit at the deYoung Museum, located at 50 Hagiwara Tea Garden Drive, San Francisco, runs through July 21, 2024. For more information, visit www.famsf.org/exhibitions/irving-penn

Linda Summers Pirkle is a travel writer and long-term Danville resident. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas, email Coverthemap@gmail.com.

Irving Penn. Audrey Hepburn, Paris, 1951. Gelatin silver print. Image: 13 3/4 x 13 7/16 in. (35 x 34.2 cm). The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of The Irving Penn Foundation, 2021. ©Condé Nast

Irving Penn. Marlene Dietrich, New York, November 3, 1948. Gelatin silver print. 10 x 8 1/16 in. (25.4 x 20.4 cm.). The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Gift of The Irving Penn Foundation, 2021. © The Irving Penn Foundation.

Portable CIO

ALAMO WOMEN’S CLUB HONORS 2024 SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Alamo Women’s Club (AWC) recently hosted a luncheon to celebrate and honor the recipients of their 2024 Scholarship Awards. The 14 students currently attend either Diablo Valley College (DVC), Contra Costa College (CCC), Los Medanos College (LMC), Pittsburg High School (PHS), or Black Diamond High School (BDHS). The AWC Scholarship Committee, chaired by Tess Perko, selected students demonstrating both financial need and dedication to financial excellence.

The recipients are Mariela Garcia and Christopher Yi from CCC; Sofia Fonseca, Jenelle Ratcliff, Yahel Moreno, and Justine Overmyer from LMC; Monique Cortes, Glory Garcia, Brianna Perez-Powell, Gina Lynn Petrice, Laura Prieto, and Jordyn Zupan from DVC; Asia Manuels from PHS; and Jorge Hernandez from BDHS.

The participants received a certificate and gave a short speech to the AWC membership. They each will receive a total of $4,000 in two phases. The scholarship funds may be used to pay tuition, school supplies, or living expenses. Eight of the recipients are single parents, and six of the recipients are emancipated foster youth. One student, Yahel Moreno, an emancipated foster youth with Youth Homes, has received a scholarship from AWC for three consecutive years.

The AWC Scholarship Program was established over 80 years ago and is made possible by annual fundraising efforts by club members, including an Author’s Faire, quarterly jewelry sales, Giving Tuesday, and the Hearts of Gold winter auction. Through these efforts, the 2024 scholarship awards totaled $56,000. If you wish to learn more about the Alamo Women’s Club, please visit alamowomensclub.org

VETERAN SERVICE ORGANIZATION MEETINGS

Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) meet at the Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley, located at 400 Hartz Avenue in Danville, except as otherwise noted. For more information, call the VSO at 925-313-1481.

• American Legion Post 246 meets on the first Wednesday of each month (except August) at noon. For information, visit www.americanlegionpost246.org , email commanderpost246@gmail.com , or call 925-272-8480.

• Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 75 of San Ramon Valley meets on the third Wednesday of each month at 7:30 PM. For information, visit vmbsrv. org or email info@vfwpost75.org

• Viet Nam Veterans of the Diablo Valley meets on the first Thursday of each month at 5 PM at Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. For information, visit http://vnvdv.org/index.html or call 925-838-6445.

• Marine Corps League Detachment 942 meets on the fourth Saturday of each month at 8:30 AM. For information, visit www.mcldet942.org .

• Blue Star Moms Detachment 101 meets on the second Wednesday of each month at 7PM. For information, visit www.bluestarmoms.org or call 925-587-4037.

• Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley holds coffees on Saturdays from 9 AM to noon.

THE PROBLEM

CASE STUDY: EMPOWERING ENTREPRENEURS WITH WALDRON PARTNERS

By Peter T. Waldron, Managing Partner of Waldron Partners CLIENT PROFILE

Our client is a successful entrepreneur who has generated substantial wealth over the years. However, he felt overwhelmed by the complexities of managing his finances and concerned about potential tax liabilities. He wanted to secure his financial future, plan for retirement, and ensure a smooth transition of his wealth to the next generation without compromising on his lifestyle.

Despite having significant wealth, the client was struggling with financial planning and wealth management. He was unsure about when he could retire, how to optimize his taxes, and how to plan for a sustainable cash flow. His concerns also included estate planning and preserving his assets for the next generation. The client was seeking a comprehensive, personalized financial plan that would address these issues and align with his financial goals.

THE WALDRON PARTNERS SOLUTION

Waldron Partners stepped in with a comprehensive approach, beginning with an in-depth understanding of the client’s financial situation, goals, fears, and passions. Waldron Partners’ team of professionals worked closely with the client and his existing advisors, providing a total financial planning solution personalized to his needs.

Our financial planning process incorporated various elements, including retirement planning, liquidity strategies, and charitable planning. We also assessed the impact of tax-law changes on both his short- and long-term financial planning to reduce future liability. By analyzing the client’s primary sources of retirement income and distribution models, we helped create a roadmap that is designed to help him achieve financial independence.

Furthermore, we reviewed his wills, trust, and retirement plans to ensure his asset preservation strategies were addressed accordingly. Our estate planning strategies address gift and estate tax, intergenerational planning, survivorship, disability planning, and long-term care analysis.

RESULTS

As a result of our financial planning process, the client was able to gain a clear understanding of his financial situation and the steps needed to help achieve his financial goals. He now has a sustainable strategy tailored to his objectives, needs, and priorities. He also gained access to our financial planning site, eMoney, where he could view and track his up-to-date financial data in real-time. Our investment process helped the client address and manage his wealth more efficiently. By using a top-down investment style, we were able to create a diversified and tailored portfolio that aligned with his long-term financial objectives. We continuously monitor and assess the client’s financial situation to ensure that his financial plan continues to meet his objectives.

CONCLUSION

By partnering with Waldron Partners, the client was able to overcome his financial planning challenges and is now on a clear path towards achieving his financial goals. His wealth is being managed efficiently, and he has a comprehensive financial plan that caters to his present and future financial needs. CALL TO ACTION

Are you an entrepreneur facing similar challenges with financial planning and wealth management? Get in touch with Waldron Partners today and let us help you create a personalized financial plan that aligns with your goals. We provide comprehensive financial planning services that can help you pursue financial independence, manage your wealth efficiently, and plan for a secure future.

Contact us today at 925-7087397 or peter.waldron@lfg.com to learn more about how we can help you.

KIWANIS FOUNDATION AWARDS $41,000 IN GRANTS

The San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation has awarded $41,000 in grants to 30 Bay Area non-profit agencies this year. These grants will be presented at the club’s annual Grants Breakfast ceremony to be held on May 23rd at Crow Canyon Country Club.

Kiwanis of San Ramon Valley has awarded nearly $1,048,000 through their grants program since 1995. This year, Grant amounts ranged from $500 to $3,000.

The recipients are: Bay Area Crisis Nursery, Diablo Valley Quilters, Hope Hospice, Inc., Mobility Matters, San Ramon Historic Foundation, The Museum of the San Ramon Valley, Cancer Support Community, Down Syndrome Connection, I Can Do That! Performing Arts Center, Moment by Moment, Trinity Center-Walnut Creek, Assistance League of Amador Valley, Child Abuse Prevention Council of Contra Costa County, Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa County, Set To Thrive, We Care Services for Children, Assistance League of Diablo Valley, Culinary Angels, National Coalition Against Prescription Drug Abuse, SonRise Equestrian Foundation, White Pony Express, Discovery Counseling Center, Parkinson’s Network of Mt. Diablo, Fostering Wishes, Sentinels of Freedom Scholarship Foundation, Canine Companions, Teen Esteem, Eugene O’Neil Foundation, Tao House, Contra Costa Interfaith Coalition, San Ramon Valley Educational Foundation.

Funds for the annual grants program have been raised by the San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation, primarily through the solicitation of 4th of July Parade sponsorships. One hundred percent of net sponsorship funds are dedicated to the Kiwanis Grants program

The Kiwanis Club has been organizing and conducting marching parades in Danville since 1975. Grant applications are solicited in February of each year and awarded in May with an additional several thousand dollars held in reserve to provide emergency grants and fund additional Kiwanis community projects throughout the year.

Additional information about the Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley may be obtained at www. srvkiwanis.org . The club holds weekly luncheon meetings, with interesting speaker topics, at noon every Thursday at Black Bear Diner in Danville . Everyone is welcome to join the club for the meeting and find out more about the organization.

ALAMO IMPROVEMENT

By Roger Smith, President ALAMO FARMER’S MARKET

ASSOCIATION

(AIA)

~ SPRING FLING

The Alamo Certified Farmers’ Market and AIA will be sponsoring a Spring Celebration on May 19th from 9am to 2pm. There will be a Kid’s Zone with games and prizes and also a balloon/bubble artist as well as a drawing for a basket of goodies from the Market (winner need not be present to win)!

Shop J & M Ibarra (vegetables), Alpine Blue (blueberries, cherries, and walnuts) in addition to all the vendors that you have come to know and love!

Mark your calendars, join in the festivities, and check our Facebook (alamocfm) and Instagram pages (@alamocfm) for continued updates and information.

The Market is sponsored by AIA and is open rain or shine on Sundays from 9AM – 2PM in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd., near Bank of America. Please look for updated information about the Market on NextDoor.

FIRE AND EMERGENCY EVACUATION ZOOM MEETING

A Fire and Emergency Evacuation Planning and Preparation Zoom presentation will be held at 6PM, Wednesday, May 8th, Visit www.AlamoCA.org for information.

Ron Marley of the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District will be presenting a Power Point and Q&A Session for Alamo Emergency Evacuation Planning and Preparation for the 2024 Wild-Fire Season.

TREE SUSTAINABILITY AND CANOPY SURVEY

Our Alamo Community Survey had these things to say about Tree Sustainability and Tree Canopy in Alamo. When asked what residents’ top concerns were:

…60% responded that they were concerned about the loss of tree canopy as more mature trees are removed for larger homes and additional dwelling units (ADU’s).

…20% are worried about the impact of climate change on children.

…20% stated their concern around the use of toxic pesticides and herbicides (such as RoundUp) which have been shown to be carcinogenic.

What can we do immediately? Try this natural weed killer recipe! Mix together 1 gallon white vinegar, 1 tablespoon liquid dish soap, and 1 cup salt. Spray directly on weeds on a sunny day.

CALL 811 BEFORE YOU DIG

Underground pipelines are everywhere. Because we cannot see them, we seldom think about them, their role in our community, or their potential hazards.

Do you want to avoid spending a day in the dark? It’s as simple as calling 8-1-1a few days prior to any digging projects. Your call will be routed to the local One Call Center. Tell the operator where you’re planning to dig, what type of work you will be doing, and your affected local utilities companies will be notified about your intent to dig. In a few days, they’ll send a locator to mark the approximate location of your underground lines, pipes, and cables, so you’ll know what’s below - and be able to dig safely.

For more information, visit www.call811.com,call 811, or 800-642-2444.

AIA 2024 REPORT

TECHNOLOGY MATTERS UNDERSTANDING THE DARK WEB

By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.

I’m a fan of spy thrillers, particularly those that weave together real places, historical events, and current technology into a plausible albeit fictional story line. One author I read calls his thrillers “faction” to describe his welding of facts with his story fiction. In these thrillers, the topic of the dark web comes up fairly often. You’ve probably heard of it before, but… what exactly is the dark web, anyway? Well, it refers to part of the internet that is intentionally hidden from standard search engines and browsing activities. It is accessible only through specific, anonymized networks such as The Onion Router (TOR). The primary purpose of TOR and similar networks, is to protect the privacy and anonymity of users, which is why it also hosts the dark web. The dark web is often mistakenly associated solely with illegal activities, but that is not entirely true. What is true is that the anonymity provided by TOR can facilitate illicit transactions and communications, however the technology itself is neutral. It is also used for legitimate purposes by individuals in oppressive countries to bypass censorship and by whistle-blowers to communicate securely. Before delving into the dark web, it’s crucial to understand the ethical landscape. The anonymity of the dark web can protect privacy and free speech, which are vital in oppressive regimes. However, this same anonymity can shield criminal activities. Engaging with the dark web requires a strong ethical compass to avoid participating in or indirectly supporting harmful activities. In other words, just because you can order a bag of “brown sugar,” or for your worst enemy to be “done in” on the dark web, one should resist those darker temptations.

Accessing the dark web should be done with caution and preparation, focusing on maintaining security and anonymity. Here are the steps and considerations:

1. Use TOR Browser: Access to the dark web is typically achieved through the TOR browser. This browser network routes a user’s web traffic through multiple servers around the world to maintain the privacy of your searches and transactions. TOR makes it very difficult to trace the user’s IP address or intercept their communications. While an end-user CAN be tracked, it is exceedingly difficult, and requires someone with state-level tools and reach to accomplish. But if you think you can use TOR and fool the CIA or NSA, think again: they can access everything. You can download TOR from the project’s website: www.torproject.org.

2. Security Precautions: Before accessing the dark web, ensure that all of your internet security software is up-to-date. This includes antivirus programs and firewalls. It’s highly advisable to tape over any webcams and mute microphones to guard against remote spying. Remember: this can be a rough neighborhood.

3. Privacy Settings: Within TOR, adjust the browser’s security settings to the highest level. This disables certain web features that could be exploited to compromise anonymity.

4. No Personal Information: Never (ever-ever-ever) share personal information, such as real names, addresses, or phone numbers. This extends to avoiding logging into any accounts associated with one’s real identity while using TOR. It’s important to understand the legal implications of accessing the dark web. Is it legal to access the dark web? In a word, here in the USA, yes. Simply accessing the dark web isn’t illegal, but engaging in transactions involving illicit goods is. Different countries have different laws regarding anonymity tools and accessing the dark web, so it’s important to be informed about local regulations before taking the plunge while on vacation.

Aside from obviously illicit activities, there are several constructive reasons why someone might want to access the dark web:

• Journalism: Reporters working in sensitive political contexts use the dark web to communicate safely with whistle-blowers and dissidents.

• Private Communications: Individuals may use the dark web to communicate privately, particularly in countries where communication is monitored.

• Research: Some academics and researchers access the dark web as part of their study on internet privacy, security, and censorship.

Watch for your upcoming AIA 2024 Annual Report, ballot, and membership form, then complete and return to AIA, P.O.Box 156, Alamo, CA. 94507. AIA, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, has 69 years of serving our community and helping shape it into “the place where we love to live!” Visit www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to local residents, membership forms, and more. AIA is an all-volunteer organization, 100% of membership dues go to support our Alamo Community!

As you have no doubt gathered, the dark web is a double-edged sword, offering both anonymity and privacy from lower level state surveillance, but also a venue for illegal activities. Understanding its nature and the tools required to access it safely is crucial. One should approach the dark web with See Web continued on page 21

ESTATE PLANNING STRATEGIES FOR BLENDED FAMILIES

By Robert J. Silverman, Esq., Silverman & Jaffe

Estate planning for blended families is often a sensitive matter. Below, I profile the hypothetical couple, Jay and Bea, and explore some estate planning strategies that can help this couple manage the sensitivity.

FACTS: Jay, 65, and Bea, 55, are in good health. They marry and move into Jay’s house.

The ‘J’ Family : Jay’s children are Jeff and Judy, 40 and 35 years old. Jay has a $1 million home, with no mortgage, and cash and securities totaling $200,000.

The ‘B’ Family : Bea has a daughter, Betty who is 20 years old. Bea has cash and securities totaling $400,000.

CHALLENGE: Most married couples, even those with blended families, establish a joint living trust (which can hold community property and separate property assets). Typically, blended family trusts split into two subtrusts (“pots”) on the first spouse’s death. One holds the surviving spouse’s assets and the other holds the deceased spouse’s assets.

The difficulty is figuring out when and to whom each pot gets distributed. Jay and Bea each need to decide the rarely simple question: if he or she dies first, what will happen to his or her assets?

STRATEGIES: Very generally, the deceased spouse’s assets could: a) go immediately to his or her children; or b) go immediately to the surviving spouse; or c) remain in trust to be used for the needs of the surviving spouse; then, on the surviving spouse’s death, remaining assets, if any, go to the deceased spouse’s children. Sometimes, a combination of these approaches works best.

If Jay dies first and he gives all his assets, including the house, to Jeff and Judy, where will Bea live? She could rent or use some of her $400,000 to buy a small condominium. But, would Jay want Bea to have a drop in standard of living and assume the financial risk of living a long life and/or incurring substantial long-term care expenses?

Alternatively, Jay could leave only his liquid $200,000 to Jeff and Judy, and keep the house in trust for Bea for her lifetime. But, if Bea lived to age 100, Jeff and Judy would not inherit the home (bulk of Jay’s assets) until they are ages 80 and 85.

Jay could mitigate this potential problem a number of ways: a) the trust can allow Bea to stay in the home for a fixed number of years; or b) the home could be sold and a portion of the sales proceeds could be used to buy her a modest replacement residence; or c) a life insurance policy with a death benefit of, say, $500,000 - $1 Million, could be purchased, naming Jeff and Judy as beneficiaries, and the home could either go outright to Bea or be held in trust for her lifetime.

www.gattopc.com

TELECARE CONNECTS WITH THE HOMEBOUND

Since 1971, member volunteers of TeleCare, a philanthropic program of Assistance League® of Diablo Valley, have been making weekday reassurance calls to seniors and the homebound in our community. Clients can anticipate a friendly exchange of ideas with trained volunteers who provide high quality, consistent communications. If a client cannot be reached, family members will be notified.

This service is free! Make that call to get you or someone you know connected! For more information, call 925-934-0901. To learn about Assistance League of Diablo Valley’s other philanthropic programs, please visit www. assistanceleague.org/diablo-valley.

ACTION POOL REPAIR

HOUSEHOLD HAZARDOUS WASTE COLLECTION

If Bea dies first, she might give her $400,000 immediately to Betty since Jay has substantial assets of his own. But, Jay could easily use up his liquid assets and need to sell his house. Consider also that if Jay lived to 90 or 95, Betty would only be 45 or 50 - a fairly young age to inherit from her mother. Bea may wish to: a) leave her $400,000 in trust for Jay’s lifetime, during which he may withdraw some portion if he needs it, preserving the rest for Betty when Jay dies; or b) purchase life insurance of, say, $250,000 or $500,000, naming Betty as beneficiary, and leave her liquid $400,000 outright or in trust for Jay.

These are only a few examples that illustrate how careful, practical planning can be of major help in reconciling the competing interests of a surviving spouse, children and stepchildren.

|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 Silverman & Jaffe, 1910 Olympic Blvd., Suite 330, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@silvermanjaffe.com.

Have you done some home cleaning and find yourself with paints and paint thinners, cleaning supplies, pesticides and garden-care items, batteries, motor oil and other automotive products, solvents, fluorescent tubes, personal care products, or unknown rusty containers that need safe disposal?

The Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) collection facility operated by the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District offers this free service to residents. Drop-off is available at 4797 Imhoff Place in Martinez from Monday-Saturday from 7AM until 2PM with no appointment needed. Drop-off appointments for small businesses can be scheduled.

Learn more at www.centralsan.org/household-hazardous-waste-collection-facility

hospital, but as a primarily volunteer-based non-profit, LWH doesn’t have the resources to provide transportation. Call the California Department of Fish and Wildlife for assistance.

General instructions for small animals needing medical attention read: “Keep it in a cardboard box with a lid, or a closed paper bag in a warm, dark, and quiet place until you can bring it to the hospital.” Providing food or water can be very harmful.

“Fledgling bird on the ground: Fledglings will often jump out of the nest when they can only hop and flutter on the ground or from branch to branch. This is a natural part of the process of learning to fly. The parents continue to feed and watch over the fledglings. Keep cats and dogs indoors for the few days it takes for the youngsters to master flight.”

Hatchlings and nestlings found on the ground can be placed back in their nest. Fallen nests can be tied or wired to a nearby tree. Usually, parents will return to feed their young. If the parents don’t appear after several hours, call the LWH Hotline before bringing the baby birds to the hospital.

Sometimes parents don’t come back. Christine Kim, one of the approximately 200 LWH volunteers, describes caring for orphaned baby hummingbirds. “The babies need to be fed every 20-30 minutes from sunrise to sunset. It sounds like a lot of work, and it is, but it’s also very rewarding! It takes only seconds to feed them each time and their small size makes them easy to transport. They mature quickly, so I’ll have a pair of baby hummingbirds for 4-6 weeks before they’re released. They typically do very well.”

Taking time off from her veterinary practice to be home with her daughters gave Kim the chance to volunteer at LWH. She writes: “I really enjoy learning about the specific needs of each species. Whether it’s cutting fruit for a House Finch, tube feeding a Mourning Dove that isn’t eating, or helping to take X-rays on a bat, I know that my efforts matter to that individual.”

Volunteers don’t need previous experience. Chris Beard, LWH Wildlife Volunteer Manager, outlines the training process. “Hospital shift volunteers receive initial training in a two-part Core class, where they learn the basics of patient husbandry tasks. They also receive on-shift mentoring, and have a wide range of continuing education classes available to expand their knowledge. Homecare volunteers receive a general overview of wildlife rehabilitation hospital activities and receive specialized training through their homecare team(s) and through continuing education classes.” Homecare teams are organized by the type of animal they support. Internships provide 12-week “fast-track” programs to volunteers planning to become veterinarians or wildlife rehabilitation technicians.

Mark Barba relates his experience as a relatively new member of the Raptor Reunite Team. “On Thursday, February 29th, great horned ‘Owlet A’ was found wandering around a homeowner’s property in Walnut Creek and brought into the Lindsay Wildlife Hospital. The owlet was approximately one month old and weighed 585 grams. No medical issues were identified, and the owlet was moved to home care with Renae the same day.” Heavy rain and wind made reuniting the owlet with its parents initially inadvisable.

See Lindsay continued on page 20

AP continued from front page

In the prerequisite course AP Seminar, students develop the research skills of critical thinking, evaluating different perspectives, crafting arguments, collaborating, and public speaking. They do this by completing different research projects, including written arguments, oral presentations, and even a podcast. After completing AP Seminar, students can decide if they want to continue to AP Research, in which they apply the skills they learned by conducting their own study. Brooks explains the transition: in AP Seminar, “You learn to be a good consumer of research,” whereas in AP Research, “You become a producer of research.”

In AP Research, students learn that the research process is a long and challenging but educational and rewarding experience. Once students have settled on a topic that excites them, they delve into the research, reviewing not only articles but dense scholarly studies. Their goal is to find the gap in the research, so that they can create their own study to fill it. After solidifying their research question, they must plan their method(s) of testing it. This could mean conducting interviews, surveys, or discussions, and then analyzing the collected data. They must draft a proposal of their research design and present it to MVHS’s Institutional Review Board (IRB) to be approved for their research. Once they get approved, students then execute their methods. After collecting their data, they finish writing their 5,000-word study and present their findings in a 20-minute oral presentation.

Going through the research process equips students with essential skills. Kelsey Stallard, a past Capstone student who is now a freshman at UC Davis, attests that the skills she developed during the program have indeed helped her in college. She still consistently uses the skills of time management, collaboration, and public speaking. Most importantly, she recalls, “It helps to get you outside of your comfort zone, being comfortable with being uncomfortable.”

AP Research also teaches students “problem-solving,” says Brooks. For example, junior Lily Khodadadi conducted her study analyzing eco-anxiety in teenagers. She says, “The largest challenge that I faced was logistics, finding people who wanted to participate in my study and fit the demographic.” So, she solved the problem by pivoting her study completely and encompassing a larger demographic. It was a lot of work to change her study so drastically, but it was a necessary part of the process. The skills developed from problem-solving are “both academic and not at the same time,” describes Brooks. They will help students in college, but also in life in general.

Another unique aspect of Capstone is the community built in those two years. Stallard reminisces, “I really love the community. Everyone was very supportive. It’s very special to have a learning environment like that, and it’s very difficult to find that once you go out into the real world.” Since the course does require a lot of hard work and dedication, Khodadadi points out, “The people that take this class are only doing it because they really want to.” She describes the people as “passionate” and the community as “tight knit.”

When asked about his favorite part of teaching the Capstone program, Brooks immediately responded that it was “the students.” He says, “For all teachers, that’s the goal–to have positive relationships with their students, and to push their students’ thinking, learning, and skills forward, and to have an impact on their lives.” He adds, “I get to know my students as human beings and as researchers, too.”

When Capstone students pass AP Research and four other AP exams, they receive the Capstone Diploma. This is presented to them at the annual symposium, where they also get to share their work with the public. If you would like to see the projects that these young people have put together, the symposium will be held in the MVHS Student Center on Wednesday, May 22nd, from 6-8PM. If you have any questions regarding the Capstone program, please reach out to 243245@students.srvusd.net.

Performing a health check on a hospital patient. Photo by Hara Jan.

AP Research student Grace Tseng gives her 20-minute oral presentation of her study.

WEIGHT LOSS TO TRANSFORM YOUR BODY & TRANSFORM YOUR LIFE!

By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

At Align, we’re passionate about guiding you toward holistic health and vitality. If you’re on a quest to shed unwanted pounds and revitalize your well-being, we’re here to introduce you to Tirzepatide—a revolutionary peptide therapy that aligns perfectly with our comprehensive approach to functional medicine.

DISCOVERING TIRZEPATIDE

Picture this, a peptide therapy that not only helps regulate blood sugar levels but also curbs those pesky cravings and leads to meaningful weight loss. That’s where Tirzepatide steps in. It’s like having a supportive ally in your journey towards a healthier you. By tapping into multiple receptors responsible for managing blood sugar, appetite, and body weight, Tirzepatide offers a multi-dimensional approach to weight loss that’s hard to beat.

EMBRACING

THE BENEFITS

At Align, we believe in celebrating every step forward on your wellness journey. With Tirzepatide by your side, you can look forward to:

Empowering Weight Loss: Say goodbye to the frustration of yo-yo dieting and hello to meaningful, sustainable weight loss. Tirzepatide has been shown to deliver impressive results, helping you shed those extra pounds and keep them off for good.

Revitalized Metabolism: Bid farewell to sluggishness and hello to newfound energy and vitality. By optimizing your metabolic health, Tirzepatide not only aids in weight loss, but also sets the stage for longterm wellness.

Personalized Support: At Align, we understand that no two individuals are alike. That’s why our functional medicine approach is all about personalized care tailored to your unique needs. From comprehensive assessments to personalized nutrition plans, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

THE ALIGN DIFFERENCE

What sets Align apart is our unwavering commitment to your well-being. When you choose Align, you’re not just embarking on a weight loss journey; you’re joining a community dedicated to helping you thrive. With our personalized approach to functional medicine, we address the root causes of weight gain and empower you to reclaim your health and vitality.

READY TO ALIGN YOUR HEALTH?

If you’re ready to take the first step towards a healthier, happier you, we invite you to explore the transformative power of our functional weight loss program. Together, we’ll embark on a journey towards holistic wellness, unlocking your full potential and helping you live your best life.

Align Healing Center has been a staple in providing quality health care to the community of Danville since 1999. To set up a weight loss consult or to get started with our weight loss program, call 925-362-8283 or visit www. alignhealingcenter.com for online booking. Advertorial

FUN AT THE DANVILLE SENIOR CENTER

The Danville Senior Center offers a Monday Senior Lunch program. Lunches are provided in partnership with Café Costa and served at noon each Monday. Participants can enjoy puzzles and board games in the Community Hall at the Danville Senior Center (located at 115 E Prospect Ave, Danville) before lunch and stay for a free weekly movie following lunch. Residents wishing to participate will need to complete a County NAPIS form and call in their reservation by noon the Friday before. Forms are available at the Danville Senior Center. The lunch program is provided in partnership with Contra Costa County and has a suggested donation of $3 for those 60 and up. Those under 60 can still enjoy lunch for a $6 fee. Menus are available at www.danville.ca.gov/seniors, and vegetarian options are available by request.

For more information or to call in a reservation, please contact the Danville Senior Center at (925) 314-3430.

All cats

fixed, tested, vaccinated, & microchipped.

SAFE MEDICINE, NEEDLE, BATTERY DISPOSAL

If you have excess or expired medicines, used needles, syringes, or lancets, or have used batteries from hearing aids or other devices, there are disposal sites to safely discard of these items.

Working together, the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District, the City of San Ramon, the Town of Danville, Allied Waste Services, and Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority hope to reduce the risk of needle sticks, improperly disposed of medications, and used batteries in our community. Drop-boxes are available 24/7. The boxes provide for the safe, secure, and environmentally-responsible collection. Drop-boxes for all items can be found at the Town of Danville offices inside the Police Department entrance located at 500 La Gonda Way, and a drop box for needles can also be found near the front door of the Fire Protection Districts’ Administrative Office Building, located at 1500 Bollinger Canyon Road in San Ramon.

Mallorca, Spain

MEALS ON WHEELS VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS

Meals on Wheels (MOW) Diablo Region has many volunteer opportunities to aid seniors in our communities. Do you have a few hours a month to spare? Become a home meal delivery driver and assist in getting prepared meals to those in need. The Friendly Visitors, Friendly Callers, and Friendly Helpers programs check in on seniors and also can assist them with everyday errands, such as grocery shopping or picking up medications at a local pharmacy.

For more information, visit www.mowdiabloregion.org/get-involved, or contact Eileen Stephens at estephens@mowdr.org, or 925-482-2622, or Tuyet Iaconis at tiaco-nis@mowdr.org or 925-891-4872.

MOUNT DIABLO ASTRONOMICAL SOCIETY

Mount Diablo Astronomical Society (MDAS) was formed in 1957 as part of the National “Moonwatch” program established to time the first man-made satellites so accurate orbits could be calculated. Within months of the club’s formation, astronomy and space science made a giant leap into the households and classrooms of Americans with the launching of Sputnik, and soon afterwards Explorer I. The space race was on, kindling a desire in many to understand more about space and astronomy, and what the newly formed NASA was planning.

Monthly Club meetings are held on the fourth Tuesday of the month (January to October and third Tuesday in November) at Lindsay Wildlife Experience 1931 First Avenue, Walnut Creek, and free monthly public and society astronomy programs take place on Mt. Diablo and the surrounding area from March to October. The events feature many telescopes and binoculars provided and operated by members for education and enjoyment.

To view the upcoming program schedule and learn more, visit mdas.net

Lindsay continued from page 18

Saturday, enroute to the property, Mark received the homeowner’s call concerning another owlet stuck in a hedge. Mark found no evidence of a nesting site in the redwoods above. He continues: “Moments later I heard the sound of two very concerned parents nearby. On the opposite side of the yard was another small grove of redwoods and one of the parents was perching among the redwoods vocalizing.” Discerning no sign of a nest there either, Mark called Marcia Metzler, vet technician at LWH for advice. Since Owlet B was uninjured, she advised leaving the owlet on the ground in a protected area.

On Monday, March 4, Owlet A was given a clean bill of health having gained 130 grams in Renae’s care. “Now off for the reunite. When I get to the homeowner’s place, there is no sign of Owlet B (bummer), but the parents are still around (yea). After casing the yard some more, I still cannot find the nesting tree and after consulting with Nancy, Great Horned Owl Species Leader, we decide to place a wicker basket in the redwood tree above the hedge where we found Owlet B. [Short aside: I’m on the Lindsay's Squirrel Tram and have done a fair amount of tree nesting box installations, but I have never had so much trouble with a tree as that dang redwood!]”

Before leaving, Mark finds Owlet B under a pine tree in the front yard. “In case I need more evidence that ‘this is the tree’ I see Owlet C (!) staring down at me from way up high. Now, both parents are clicking and hooting at me.” Clearly, they had been feeding Owlet B. Although Owlet B was nowhere in sight on March 13th, Owlet A was still in the basket looking well-fed, and Owlet C was still in the nesting tree.

Flowers emphasizes: “The ability to return babies to their parents is one of the happiest, most satisfying jobs for us. The best patient is the one we don’t have to treat.”

Spring is the main recruiting season for LWH volunteers. Fall Hospital Shift recruitment targets filling staffing gaps. However, many Homecare teams will accept new volunteers throughout the peak season from April 1st-September 15th. Students 13-18 may participate in the Outstanding Wildlife Leader (OWL) Program. Throughout the year they work in weekly shifts caring for resident domestic animals and bringing educational

See Lindsay continued on page 22

Examining the wing of an injured bald eagle takes teamwork. Photo courtesy of LWE.

Once secured in a basket in a home yard tree, Owlet A was fed by parents. Photo courtesy of Mark Barba.

MAY: A MONTH TO SPOTLIGHT SKIN CANCER AWARENESS

By Jerome Potozkin, MD

As the temperatures rise and the days lengthen, people across the globe eagerly embrace the warmth of the sun. However, amidst the joys of outdoor activities, it’s crucial to remember that May isn’t just about the onset of summer—it’s also Skin Cancer Awareness Month. This annual observance serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of safeguarding our skin against the dangers of UV radiation, and understanding the significance of early detection and treatment of skin cancer.

Globally, skin cancer is the most common type of cancer, with millions of cases diagnosed each year. There are various types of skin cancer, but three primary forms stand out: basal cell carcinoma, squamous cell carcinoma, and melanoma.

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Basal Cell Carcinoma (BCC): This type of skin cancer typically appears as a small shiny bump or a red scaly patch. BCC usually develops on areas of the skin that are regularly exposed to sunlight, such as the face, ears, neck, scalp, shoulders, and back. While it rarely spreads beyond the original tumor site, if left untreated, it can grow deep beneath the skin and cause significant damage. Very rarely, BCC can metastasize or spread to distant locations.

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Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC): SCC often presents as a firm, red nodule or a flat lesion with a scaly or crusty surface. Like BCC, it tends to occur on sun-exposed areas, such as the face, ears, neck, arms, and hands. Although SCC is less common than BCC, it has a higher risk of spreading to other parts of the body if left untreated.

Melanoma: Melanoma is the most aggressive form of skin cancer and can develop anywhere on the body, including areas not exposed to sunlight. It typically appears as a new spot or a change in an existing mole, exhibiting irregular borders, varied colors, and an asymmetrical shape. It is usually dark in color but some melanomas lack pigment and may appear as a pink bump. If not detected and treated early, melanoma can metastasize to other organs, making it potentially life-threatening.

Prevention lies at the forefront of combating skin cancer. Simple yet effective measures such as applying sunscreen with a high SPF, wearing protective clothing, seeking shade during peak sun hours, and avoiding tanning beds can significantly reduce the risk of developing skin cancer. Additionally, regular skin checks and prompt evaluation of any suspicious moles or lesions are paramount.

Diagnosing skin cancer often involves a visual examination of the skin and may require a biopsy for confirmation. It’s essential to consult a board-certified dermatologist for accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Early detection vastly improves the prognosis and reduces the likelihood of complications.

Treatment options for skin cancer vary depending on the type, size, location, and stage of the tumor. Mohs Surgery, a precise technique that removes cancerous tissue layer by layer while preserving healthy surrounding tissue, is highly effective for treating basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas, especially on the face. Excision Surgery involves removing the tumor along with a margin of healthy tissue and is suitable for most skin cancers. Radiation therapy may be recommended in certain cases, but recent trends suggest a growing concern about its overuse.

In recent years, there has been a notable increase in the use of radiation therapy for treating skin cancer, particularly non-melanoma types. While radiation can be a valuable treatment modality in specific situations, such as when surgery is not feasible, it is not always the optimal choice. Surgical procedures, including Mohs Surgery and Excision Surgery, often offer better outcomes with lower rates of recurrence and complications.

As Skin Cancer Awareness Month unfolds, let us renew our commitment to protecting our skin, raising awareness, and advocating for early detection and timely treatment. By prioritizing sun safety practices and seeking expert care when needed, we can minimize the burden of skin cancer and enjoy the sun responsibly for years to come. If you have a spot of concern, don’t wait, call us today to schedule an appointment.

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a clear understanding of the ethical implications and legal boundaries. Educating oneself thoroughly before attempting to access the dark web is essential to navigate its depths safely and responsibly. You should seek to understand the legal framework of the country from which you access the dark web, lest you run afoul of regulations that are different than here in the USA.

While the dark web can be a fascinating area to explore, particularly for those interested in issues of privacy, security, and internet freedom, it also poses significant risks. It should never be approached lightly or without significant preparation and understanding of the potential dangers and ethical considerations involved.

If you have related questions, comments, or a dark web experience you’d like to share, drop me a line. And of course, PCIO is always here to help. Reach out any time, 888-552-7953, or email info@pcioit.com. Advertorial

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 (WPE).

WPE, founded in 2013 and headquartered in Pleasant Hill, is a nonprofit that rescues fresh surplus food from supermarkets, restaurants, and farmers markets. This 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.

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Dr. Jerome Potozkin is a Board Certified Dermatologist and Board Certified Micrographic Dermatologic Surgeon specializing in minimally and non-invasive cosmetic procedures. He is the author of “Botox and Beyond: Your Guide to Safe Non-Surgical Cosmetic Procedures.” The practice is accepting new patients and can be reached at (925) 838-4900 and www. MyBeautyMd.com.

Hundreds of volunteers make WPE possible. 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

YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONISTS

OZEMPIC UPDATE

By Linda Michaelis RD, MS and Jackie Peterson RD CDCES

Our patients are asking questions about weight loss medications such as Ozempic. Here are some of the things we are seeing.

One benefit of the medication Ozempic includes helping slow down food absorption in the stomach so you feel full for longer. It also regulates insulin and blood sugars. Without making diet, activity, or lifestyle changes, weight loss can still be achieved because suppressing hunger can reduce your calorie intake. However, medications can have significant side effects including nausea, GI upset, eating too little, dehydration, losing weight too quickly, and loss of muscle mass from being malnourished. Approximately 39% of weight loss comes from losing lean body mass.

We find many patients take breaks from using weight loss medications either because they feel satisfied with their results, or the medication becomes unavailable due to a shortage. When people stop taking the medication research suggests that participants gained an average of two-thirds of the weight loss back, even when they maintained the lifestyle changes they implemented with the medication. This happens when people go off the drug at a lower body weight, the appetite drastically surges because the body fights to get back to its preferred set-point weight.

As dietitians, we inform our patients that by choosing to start these medications you accept the work and responsibility to make sure you are meeting your basic nutritional needs, even if you do not have a sense of hunger.

Here are a couple of client case studies to consider.

Diana’s Food Diary: Breakfasts: Carnation Instant Breakfast, homemade protein shake, avocado toast, or bagel with cream cheese, Lunches : Two egg veggie omelet with avocado, tomatoes, and toast, a grilled cheese sandwich, or cheese and crackers. Dinner: California rolls.

Diana reported feeling filled up too quickly by water.

Comment: We liked Diana’s homemade protein shake because she used pea protein powder providing 2oz. of protein, and she also added veggies and an apple, which gave her the appropriate amount of protein with fiber. For lunch we calculated she was getting only 2oz. of protein from the two eggs in the omelet or

Lindsay continued from page 20

wildlife programs to the public.

less from the grilled cheese, or cheese and crackers. For lunch, we had her load up on protein by adding 3oz. of sliced meats or a few strips of turkey bacon in her omelet and made sure her toast was whole wheat. This provided a well-balanced meal giving her the protein, healthy fats from the avocado, fiber from the veggies, and carbs from the toast. For dinner we suggested that she switch to having 2oz. of sashimi, a cucumber salad, and a serving of rice.

We saw that she was consuming only about 1,100 calories a day even with adding the extra protein. We ideally wanted to see at least two to three times the amount that she was eating for her height and weight. We recommended she discuss lowering the dosage of Ozempic with her doctor so that we could meet the sweet spot of achieving a 20-25% calorie reduction while meeting her nutrition needs. We discussed the risk for dehydration by taking Ozempic.

Carol Food Diary: Breakfast: Chobani Complete Yogurt drink, AM Snack: Quaker Oats granola bar, Lunch: Trader Joe’s frozen Butter Chicken with spinach, and Dinner: a Lean Cuisine meal.

Carol noted she was not getting any benefit from Ozempic, nor a feeling of fullness. She was not losing weight.

Comment: For breakfast, we were happy to see 20 grams of protein to start the day. For lunch, we told her rice was OK to eat, even having been told she had insulin resistance and PCOS. We recommended Carol add rice to her dinner meals with more protein rich entrees like Trader Joe’s Chicken Fajitas.

We noted, Lean Cuisine is marketed as having only 300 calories and the protein content is minimal. She needed to increase protein for muscle protein synthesis since she was going to the gym and feeling very sore. Carol is no longer feeling sore after her workouts because she is eating more protein and placing more emphasis on hydration, adding an electrolyte packet to her water bottle.

Ozempic is working more effectively because she is getting a fullness with more protein and fiber which she was not having before.

We believe if you are taking one of the weight loss medications you need to be working with a Registered Dietitian to see the best success.

The good news is that most insurance companies pay for nutritional counseling for diabetes including ABMG, Aetna, Blue Cross, Blue Shield, Brown and Toland, CCHP, Cigna, Hill, Sutter, UHC and others. We are happy to call on your behalf and see what your plan offers. Please visit www.LindaRD.com to learn more about our services. Email us at lifeweight1@yahoo.com, or 925-855-0150 to tell us about your nutritional concerns and see how we can help you. Advertorial

LWH Volunteer Coordinator since 2016, Beard writes: “For me, the most rewarding part of coordinating volunteers is helping shepherd them through the learning process, gaining knowledge and experience to progress from new volunteer tasks such as diet preparation and laundry up through functioning as a Shift leader or Hospital Assistant.”

Flowers came to LWH in 2020 with 25 years of experience including work at the National Zoo in Washington, DC, and field work in Africa and Panama. He notes: “The bar to release wildlife is high because it has to be able to survive and thrive on its own and be a reproductive member of its species.”

Releasing wildlife back into their habitat is the goal. Anna’s Hummingbirds are among the top five most common species brought to LWH. Kim writes: “Watching these birds fly from their cages into the open sky and knowing I've been a part of their survival is immensely satisfying.”

Shorebirds/waterfowl including ducks and geese are major carriers of the highly contagious Avian Influenza. To safeguard animals the hospital treats, LWH does not accept shorebirds. Contact International Bird Rescue in Fairfield at 707-207-0380 ext. 110.

Advice from LWE’s “Living with Wildlife” post includes: “Wild animals that are fed by humans may become nuisance animals ... Pick up fishing lines or hooks ... Do not use bird netting near the ground ... Prevent bird collisions ... Do not use rat or mouse poison, or sticky traps ... Keep your cat indoors.”

A bobcat kitten is given life-giving support at LWH. Photo courtesy of LWE.

White tailed kite. Photo by Hara Jan.

Private-Practice Dentist • Dental Implants

Advanced Periodontal Therapy • Porcelain Veneers

Custom Teeth Whitening • Digital X-Rays

Invisalign Clear Braces

925-831-8310

220 Alamo Plaza, Suite E, Alamo Next to Safeway

Open Monday - Thursday and the first two Saturdays of each month.

Meet Dr. Yvonne Hyland & Her Family

Dr. Hyland has been in private practice since 2000. She received a DDS degree from Baylor College of Dentistry in Dallas, Texas. Following dental school, she pursued a hospital-based General Practice Residency at the Veteran’s Medical Center in West Los Angeles for two years. Realizing this was not the end of her formal education, she completed a successful three-year post-graduate surgical residency in periodontics. Dr. Hyland’s experience and professional skills excel in every aspect of dentistry from general cosmetic procedures to complex surgical cases. She has placed thousands of successful dental implants and is highly trained in all phases of gum disease therapy, tissue and bone grafting procedures, and wisdom teeth extraction.

Dr. Hyland understands the desire to provide the very best care for the entire family. As a resident of Alamo, she strives to meet community needs by providing unparalleled services for those seeking the finest complete dental care in one location. In her spare time, Dr. Hyland enjoys spending time with her husband Terry, two sets of twin boys, and their three rescue dogs adopted from ARF.

THE EYE OPENER By

Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry

VISION OR MEDICAL INSURANCE?

Part of being in the medical field is working with insurance companies. As an optometry office, we work with both medical and vision insurance benefits daily. Since no one completely understands the insurance world (including health plan customer services representatives), it is a constant battle and source of angst for our team members. Granted some plans are markedly easier to verify and obtain benefits than others; it is a constant drain on the office. In addition to working with insurance companies before the patient even comes to the office, we are also forced to deal with these companies when claims are not paid in a timely manner or are not paid at all. Understanding what we deal with daily, we completely understand the frustration and lack of understanding insurance coverage from a patient’s perspective. I will discuss some of the differences between vision and medical insurance and when each plan would be utilized. When making an appointment for a routine comprehensive exam at the office, we need to know which vision insurance carrier you have so we can make sure you have benefits prior to the exam. A “routine” exam is one that does not involve a medical condition such as diabetes, hypertension, cataracts, or allergies; it is specific to vision diagnoses only such as myopia and astigmatism. The vision plans we are in-network providers of are Vision Service Plan (VSP) and EyeMed. These are stand-alone plans that have exam coverage and material benefits (towards either glasses or contact lenses). Some of these vision plans are associated with your medical insurance but are administrated differently. Even though they are related, your medical insurance and vision coverage are usually separate entities.

The main difference between a vision plan and medical insurance is that for a medical benefit, a medical diagnosis must apply. Conditions such as conjunctivitis, diabetes, cataracts, allergies, glaucoma, diabetes, dry eyes, etc. are medical diagnoses. Any medical condition that is diagnosed at the exam or is being monitored or managed at our office needs to be billed to your medical insurance. Even if a patient wants to be seen for their exam to renew their contact lens prescription or to update their glasses, if a medical condition is being managed by our office, your “routine” vision plan does not apply. You can obviously use your routine coverage to order contacts or glasses, but the exam must be billed to your medical plan per their rules. For comprehensive exams, all aspects of your eyes are being examined and managed; this includes but is not limited to vision, health of the entire eye, and systemic conditions and medications that can have ocular consequences. Patients and doctors do not get to select what parts of the comprehensive exam to ignore; all components are assessed at every comprehensive exam. We need to understand that these rules were put in place by the insurance companies, not our office. It is our job to utilize them in the proper manner per the rules they have made. They are not negotiable, and they must be followed by both practitioners and patients alike. It is for these reasons that we need to collect both routine vision coverage and medical coverage when making appointments at our office. Since it is not always known ahead of time if medical insurance or routine coverage will be primary, it makes it easier to have all the information on file, so the office has all the information needed to be able to maximize your insurance on your behalf. All benefits need to be authorized before your visit. We do not have the time necessary at your exam to retrieve your benefits; this needs to be done ahead of time so we may determine any out-of-pocket costs as accurately as possible before your visit. We do not like any cost surprises for our patients, therefore, time ahead of the appointment is needed to obtain the necessary information from the insurance companies. Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at (925) 8206622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165, in Alamo. For more information, visit www.alamooptometry.com, or follow on Facebook and Instagram @Alamo Optometry. Advertorial