2019 OCTOBER ~ Alamo Today & Danville Today News by The Editors, Inc

editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com

October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 1

& OCTOBER 2019

TELECARE KEEPS VULNERABLE COMMUNITY MEMBERS CONNECTED By Fran Miller

Assistance League of Diablo Valley (ALDV) is a nonprofit member-volunteer organization dedicated to improving lives in the community through hands-on programs. One such program is TeleCare, a free service that entails a reassurance health and welfare phone call to a homebound client. The TeleCare client/volunteer relationship also promotes friendship and an opportunity for a friendly chat and exchange of ideas, as the client desires. Additionally, each December, TeleCare volunteer callers entertain their clients with a holiday luncheon at ALDV’s Community Resource Center in Walnut Creek.

WHEELCHA IR FOUNDATION DELIVER S MOBILITY FOR A THUMBS UP & A SMILE

By Jody Morgan

The Wheelchair Foundation, officially established by Ken Behring on June 13, 2000 (his 72nd birthday), has delivered 1,107,349 wheelchairs free of charge to individuals worldwide in over 155 countries who have no means of affording the wheelchair they need. In developing countries, an estimated 90% of children, teens, and adults who require a wheelchair are unable to acquire one. From the Heart, the Wheelchair Foundation’s schools program launched in 2012 by Don Routh, Josh Routh, and Bill Wheeler, introduces students in Tri-Valley schools firsthand to the enabling power of a wheelchair and connects them personally through letters and photographs to wheelchair recipients in Latin America whose lives have been positively impacted by their fundraising efforts. The gift of mobility spreads life-liberating benefits like ripples in a pond to family, friends, and caregivers multiplying the effect of each one delivered tenfold.

TeleCare volunteers gather at the annual holiday party.

Last year, 3,500 daily reassurance calls were placed to homebound clients. Every morning, Monday through Friday, trained volunteers telephone those who have requested the service. Those receiving calls may choose the approximate time and day of week they prefer. To become a client, participants simply fill out a TeleCare form, or arrangements can be made for a TeleCare member to meet the client and help complete the form. The questions are simple: name, phone number, and an

See Telecare continued on page 26

DEVELOPING WOMEN’S POTENTIAL AND PROMOTING VOLUNTARISM: JUNIOR LEAGUE OF OAKLAND-EAST BAY, INC. By Fran Miller

AnnAlia Young joined Junior League of Oakland-East Bay, Inc. (JLOEB) in order to develop as a leader and to learn about and contribute to her community’s needs alongside like-minded women. The Dublin resident has since become what she calls an ‘East Bay Citizen.’ She has helped formerly homeless children in Alameda, learned about food insecurity in Richmond, and redesigned rooms at a domestic violence shelter in San Leandro. She has helped feed hungry Oakland residents, distributed food and Christmas gifts to abuse-survivors in Livermore, and trained in Berkeley and Walnut Creek for leadership roles. Now she is president of JLOEB, where she leads the board, acts as emcee and speaker at general membership meetings, composes blogs, and endeavors to make strategic connections for the league.

See JLOEB continued on page 18

Local Postal Customer

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

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Wheelchair Foundation From the Heart students are all smiles in Danville’s 4th of July parade. Photo courtesy of Wheelchair Foundation.

Raised during the Depression in a home with no hot water or central heat, Behring thought he knew what poverty was like until he began traveling to Africa in the 1990s. Taken to hospitals with inadequate medical supplies sometimes so overcrowded patients had to lie on the floor and schools that had no books and barely provided shelter, Behring responded by stocking his plane with humanitarian supplies each time he returned. In 1999, six wheelchairs destined for a hospital in Romania filled out the cargo of 15 tons of canned meat gathered by LDS Charities for delivery to refugees. In Road to Purpose, Behring writes: “Little did I know that these six wheelchairs would alter the direction of my life.” One elderly stroke victim exclaimed after Ken helped settle him in his new wheelchair, “Now I can go outside in my yard and smoke with my neighbors.” Ken took to heart the lesson he learned that day. “I had previously seen wheelchairs as a form of confinement. I didn’t comprehend the liberation that one could bring to those who are unable to afford them.” Trips to Vietnam and Guatemala in early 2000 confirmed the enormous need and inspired Behring to address it. One Guatemalan girl only six or seven years old

See Wheelchair continued on page 12

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

Volume XIX Number 10

Volume X Number 10

3000F Danville Blvd. #117 Alamo, CA 94507 Telephone (925) 405-6397 Alisa Corstorphine ~ Publisher Editor@yourmonthlypaper.com The opinions expressed herein belong to the writers, and do not necessarily reflect that of The Editors. The Editors is not responsible for the content of any of the advertising herein, nor does publication imply endorsement.

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PAGE 2 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

BOULEVARD VIEW

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor

Some people believe they can generally get through life on their own, but what I believe is that “people need people,” which are words turned into song of that same name by country artists Maddie & Tae. Some of the lyrics are: Residential • Commercial People need people when the highs get low High-Efficiency Experts The world’s a bit too heavy for one shoulder to hold The strongest souls still wear out and the hardest hearts still break Air Purifiers & Custom Installations Sometimes you ain’t alright and sometimes that’s okay Serving the entire Bay Area So if you’re asking me Kevin Armstrong, Owner People need people 510.886.5853 State License #741785 Somebody to call when you’re too close to the edge 510.579.5578 karmstrong@sbcglobal.net Somebody to catch you when you’re dancing on a ledge... I continue to be a part of support groups for fire survivors of the Sonoma and Butte County fires. These folks are our neighbors, and what happened to them could happen to any of us. Some folks think that as it’s been a year or two since the fires’ destruction, everyone is, or should be, back on their feet. The reality is that many of these folks will struggle for years, or even a decade, or more to get back to some sort of “normal.” A post I read put an exclamation point on the continuing needs of the fire victims and causes me to consider how we can fill these gaps of need. The poster wrote, “Sometimes I feel like I just want to give up. I’m so tired of struggling everyday just to make ends meet. Life has got me down. I try so hard and feel like I’m getting nowhere. I just want one day where everything is the way it should be-- just one day where I won’t have to struggle to get ahead. But that’s not going to be today. No, today I have an overwhelming amount of problems to deal with. First I need to figure out how to get gas for the generator. Then, I need to find more gas for the truck so that I can get to Willows tomorrow and go to work to earn money to pay for next weeks gas. When will the hardship be over? When will things actually start to get better? Please God, send me an angel to help. I’m at the end of my rope, and my hands are slipping. God, catch me before I fall.” Most of us have experience struggles at least once in our lives. Some are self-inflicted, and some just happen. There is food insecurity, housing insecurity, job insecurity, disasters, addictions...and the list goes on. Many resources exist, but a lot of charities are volunteer-run and always in need of funding and more helping hands. We are fortunate to be surrounded by many local charities that step up to help folks in need such as Wheelchair Foundation, Assistance League, and Junior League (see the front page for their stories), White Pony Express in Pleasant Hill, our local food banks, support groups for addictions and for family members of addicts, Meals on Wheels, and other organizations that support our elderly. The list goes on and on. I have tried to feature many of these groups in the paper. Is there a group that sparks your interest? Can you help with your time or a donation of funds to help their efforts continue? As fall and winter descend upon us and as the holidays approach, the “giving season,” is in full swing. I encourage you to get involved, not only now but yearround. Plan upcoming holidays, and every day, to include those in need. The NextDoor website recently had a thread where a local employer hired a new worker who was going through a difficult period and had to flee their home to a new and empty space. The poster was requesting household goods to fill the space and make it a home. Members of our communities rose to the need, and an abundance of gifts poured in. A lot of us have excess and things to share. Even used items with life left in them are helpful. I have made collections of various items to send care packages to fire survivors who have relocated all over the country. One collection was for general crafting items including knitting and crochet supplies. I figure crafts keep folks busy. It allows them to learn a new hobby, get back to an old hobby, process stress, create gifts, or maybe even create items to sell and get back to business. As I was collecting yarn for these care packages, I was contacted by someone who had an abundance to Purchase tickets through Eventbrite at share. She invited me to her home and offered up beautiful skeins of wool, cotton, Brewitupwineitdown.eventbrite.com and alpaca yarn to share. How could I say no to the generous gift? I knew hundreds if not thousands of folks would benefit. All it took was a little of my time. I loaded up two full-size pickup trucks (cab and bed), stuffed Beverly Hillbillies style, with yarn to share with those in need. The gratitude from the recipients is abundant. The tag-line for White Pony Express is, “All of us taking care of all of us.” We can Saturday & Sunday ● October 19 & 20 ● 10AM-5PM all do something to make the days and lives for someone else better. If you are stuck IN HISTORIC DOWNTOWN DANVILLE on how you can make a difference, reach out to me at editor@yourmonthlypaper. 150+ Artisans ● Glass Pumpkin Patch ● Live Music & Dance Performances com and let’s see what we can come up with.

VOLUNTEER WITH AARP TAX-AIDE FOR 2020 TAX SEASON

Beer & Wine Booths ●

Local Shops & Restaurants

Children’s Costume Parade (Saturday) ● Safe Trick or Treating

Classic Car Show (Sunday) Do you like working with people? Are you good with numbers? AARP Tax-Aide is looking for volunteers to become members of a team that provides free tax preparation www.danvillefallfest.com for individuals residing in Contra Costa County. Tax-Aide volunteer positions include tax counselors who are trained by Tax-Aide and certified by IRS, and client facilitators, who schedule appointments and assist clients at tax sites. Orientation is in November, classes for tax counselors start in January. Service is needed February through April 15, 2020. If interested, apply online at www.aarp.org/taxvolunteer or call (925) 726-3199 for additional information.

editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com

October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 3

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SAN RAMON VALLEY GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

The San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society invites you to attend their regular monthly meeting on Tuesday, October 15th from 10am to noon. The meeting is held at the Family History Center, located at 2949 Stone Valley Rd., Alamo. The program for October is entitled “A Year In Salem: The Witchcraft Crisis of 1692” and will be presented by Gay Scott who is a member of the group and a member of The Associated Daughters of Early American Witches. Her 7x great grandmother was one of the victims of the witchcraft episode in Salem, MA. She will present some of witchcraft’s beginnings up to and including the 1692 episode. For more information, visit www.srvgensoc.org.

NIGHT AT THE MUSEUM

The Friends of Blackhawk Museum announce a benefit fundraising dinner and concert titled “Night at the Museum ~ Diamonds in Danville.” The event will be held Sunday, October 13th. The evening begins at 5pm with no-host cocktails followed by dinner at 7pm. At 8pm, Jack Wright will preform songs and stories of Neil Diamond. Tickets are $150/per person. The fundraising event benefits the Children’s Education & Transportation Fund and Educational Programs of the Blackhawk Museum. To purchase tickets, visit blackhawkmuseum.org/diamond or call 925736-2277 x 150. The Blackhawk Museum is located at 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville.

ALAMO ROTARY CITIZEN OF THE YEAR

At the annual Christmas Tree Lighting, to be held December 8th at Andrew Young Park in Alamo, the 2019 Alamo Citizen of the Year will be announced and honored. The Alamo Rotary Club has been making this award since 1985. At one time, the criteria was that the nominee had to be an Alamo resident and had to have engaged in activities that directly benefited the residents of Alamo. Recognizing that there are residents of Alamo who are committed to making a difference in our world both domestically and internationally, the Alamo Rotary Club recently changed the criteria to also include these folks. The club is seeking nominations for this honor. All nominations must be received by Friday, November 15th. To obtain a nomination form, call Dick Olsen at 925-855-1598 or email dickolsen@att.net. The Club believes there are many Alamo residents who unselfishly give of their time and energy, doing good works for all. Please help publicly recognize someone who stands above all others, and honor that Alamo resident at the upcoming Tree Lighting.

PASTEL PAINTING DEMONSTRATIONS

The Alamo Danville Artists Society will be presenting a pastel painting demonstration by artist Amanda Houston at their upcoming General Meeting to be held Tuesday, October 8th from 7:30-9:30pm. At their November General Meeting, to be held Tuesday, November 12th from 7:30-9:30pm, a pastel painting demonstration by artist and teacher Debbie Wardrope will be showcased. Both meetings will take place at the Alamo Women’s Club located at 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo. The events are free and open to the public. To learn more visit www.adas4art.org or call Megan at 925-413-3438.

ALAMO DANVILLE NEWCOMERS

Are you a new resident of Danville, Alamo, Blackhawk, or Diablo, a longtime resident, newly retired, or an empty nester interested in making new friends and participating in various social activities? The Alamo Danville Newcomers Club is a woman’s organization whose purpose is to enrich the lives of all its members and their families in a social manner. Check out all the club has to offer by visiting www.alamodanvillenewcomers.com. The next “Welcome Coffee” will be held on October 22nd from 10AM to noon. RSVP to alamodanvillenewcomers@gmail.com.

BOOK SALE

The Friends of the Danville Library (FODL) will have their quarterly book sale October 11-13 at the Danville Library, located at 400 Front Street in Danville. On Friday, October 11th from 9am-10am, a FODL Members Preview will be held. The public sale will take place Friday from 10am-5pm and also on Saturday, October 12th from 10am-4pm. On Sunday, October 13th, a $5 Bag Sale will be held from 12:05pm-3:45pm. All items that fit into a grocery-sized paper bag Gopher/Mole Removal can be had for only $5! On Friday and No Poison Saturday, all hardcover Tri-Valley Trapper books, books on tape, and DVDs will be $2, and all paperback books and CD’s will cost $1.

925-765-4209

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PAGE 4 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

DANVILLE ARTISAN MAKERS EXPO ~ D.A.M.E.

A Celebration of Choral Music from Northern European Composers Performed By

Saturday, November 2 / 7:00 pm Grace Presbyterian Church

David Huff Artistic Director Conductor

Julie Rieth Assistant Director Accompanist

2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek

Sunday, November 3 / 3:00 pm Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church 433 Moraga Way, Orinda

Saturday, November 9 / 7:00 pm Peace Lutheran Church 3201 Camino Tassajara, Danville

For ticket information Visit www.ChromaticaChorale.org

SONS IN RETIREMENT SAN RAMON VALLEY

On Saturday, October 5th from 10am-4pm at the Veterans Memorial Hall, located at 400 Hartz Ave in Danville, a unique holiday boutique will be held. Danville Artisan Makers Expo (D.A.M.E.) captures the magic of the autumnal season with an eclectic gathering of over 35 multi-talented artisans who hand-make original home goods, wearable-art, gifts, and Halloween, Thanksgiving, and Christmas keepsakes. Patrons will find one-of-a-kind mixed-media purses, soaps, jeweled trees, journals, hats & fascinators, diminutive dolls, felted animals, mohair bears, ceramic tableware, painted porcelains, vintage ephemera, glass lampwork beads, paper-mache characters, scarves, quilts, woven fiber, wearable-art clothing, antique curiosities, worded whimsy, mosaics, wood signage, jewelry, holiday dioramas, cards, ornaments, pop-up houses, golden bullion bird nests, witches, winged creatures, lacy angels, crafting supplies, and an endless variety of inspirations. The event will feature “Meet the Maker,” live demos, a mystery series author book signing, raffles, and a D.I.Y. in Danville Workshop/Studio promotion with a dozen Danville businesses including Art on the Lane, A/R Workshop, A Yarn Less Raveled, Cottage Jewel, Danville Yoga and Wellness, GingerLily, Mel’s Place, Pinot’s Palette, The Flower Theory, Village Theatre & Art Gallery, Whim House, and Wooden Gate Quilts. A strolling map will be available for local shop and dine options. A $5 entry fee includes admittance all day, one raffle chance to win art, and $5 off coupon to Cottage Jewel. Up to 100 patrons will receive a Danville shopping tote while supplies last. All entry proceeds will be donated to the SF/ Bay Area chapter of Dress a Girl Around the World. For questions, contact Marcia Harmon at (925)837-2664 or info@CottageJewel.com.

TREATS FOR THE TROOPS

Thanks to all of the generous shoppers who have helped service group Delta Nu Psi send 41,033 pounds, over 20 TONS, of fun foods and coffee to American servicemen and women located in the War Zones! The group will be collecting donations at CVS in Alamo on the first Friday of each month and at Lunardi’s in Danville on the second Friday of each month. Collection hours are 11:30AM until 1:45PM. Please shop for the men and women serving the United States. To learn more, visit www.deltanupsi.org.

Are you looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining Sons in Retirement. There are monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. Additionally, there are a variety of activities including golf, hiking, biking, bocce ball, movies, cooking, finance, reading, computers, and more. Other activities such as travel, dine outs, excursions, and baseball games include spouses, friends, and guests. The next luncheon will be held on Wednesday, October 16th at 11am. The guest speaker will be Steven Campbell, an author, speaker, and mentor to individuals and organizations worldwide. Mr. Campbell has been a college professor and educational dean in northern California for over 20 years. Steven will present on Memory and Aging. Be prepared for a very interesting presentation. The $26 luncheon includes a meal, guest speaker, and great opportunity to socialize with other retirees from the Valley. To reserve a space for the September luncheon, please send an email by Thursday, October 10th to info@SIR128.com. The luncheon will be held at The Bridges, 9000 S. Gale Ridge, San Ramon. For more information, visit www.SIR128.com.

RIPCORD, A MORE-THAN-FUNNY COMEDY

Two women of vastly different temperaments are roommates at a retirement home and adversarial ones at that. The play Ripcord features two seniors, both widows: Marilyn is a chatty optimist while Abby is a woman of few words who prefers her own company. They make a bet agreeing that the winner can force the other one out and thus gain a private room. What begins with humorous pranks escalates into something entirely different as they engage in a dangerous game of one-upmanship. Role Players Ensemble Theatre presents Ripcord at the Village Theatre in Danville beginning Friday, October 18th at 8pm, Saturday, the 19th at 8pm, and Sunday the 20th at 2pm. Performances continue for the following weekends through November 3rd on the same time schedule. Tickets are available online at www.RolePlayersEnsemble.com;, at the Danville Community Center located at 420 Front St., Danville, at the Theatre Box Office which is located at 233 Front St., Danville, or by phone (925) 314-3400. For a preview of this entertaining play, attend a free Sneak Peek on Monday, October 7th at 7pm at the Danville Library, located at 400 Front St. in Danville.

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October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 5

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

RENDERING

NEW CONSTRUCTION • ACTIVE

ACTIVE • MAGEE RANCH

JUST LISTED

11 MARION COURT, ALAMO 4 BEDS, 4.5 BATHS, 4,380 SF, 3 CAR GARAGE

11 BRIGHTWOOD CIRCLE, DANVILLE 5 BEDS, 7 BATHS, 5,324 SF, .47 ACRE LOT

52 BRIGHTWOOD CIRCLE, DANVILLE 5 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 4,558 SF, .49 ACRE LOT

1837 CHAPARRO COURT, WALNUT CREEK 5 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 3,196 SF, .38 ACRE

OFFERED AT $3,450,000

OFFERED AT $2,599,000

OFFERED AT $1,899,000

OFFERED AT $1,695,000

MARY PISCITELLI & PETER GILLIS | 925.765.9095

LESLIE SHAFTON | 925.360.9192

DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP | 925.800.3510

BRYAN HURLBUT, HURLBUT TEAM | 925.383.5500

ACTIVE

PENDING

SOLD 66 CREST AVENUE, ALAMO 5 BEDS, 4 BATHS, 4,631 SF, .77 ACRE LOT MARY PISCITELLI & PETER GILLIS | 925.765.9095

143 BIRCHBARK PLACE, DANVILLE 4 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 3,062 SF, 5,200 SF LOT

134 SANTA CLARA DRIVE, DANVILLE 4 BEDS, 2.5 BATHS, 3,201 SF, 16,218 SF LOT

NEW PRICE! OFFERED AT $1,675,000

OFFERED AT $1,475,000

401 LIVERPOOL STREET, DANVILLE 4 BEDS, 2.5 BATHS, 2,484 SF, .3 ACRE LOT OFFERED AT $1,295,000

DUDUM REAL ESTATE GROUP | 925.800.3510

BRYAN HURLBUT, HURLBUT TEAM | 925.383.5500

MARGY LYMAN | 925.963.6380

SOLD • REPRESENTED BUYER

320 MILLER COURT, ORINDA 5 BEDS, 4 BATHS, 3,830 SF, 1.11 ACRE LOT

42 NEW BOSTON COURT, DANVILLE 5 BEDS, 3.5 BATHS, 2,819 SF, .27 ACRE LOT

1329 MILTON AVENUE, WALNUT CREEK 3 BEDS, 3 BATHS, 2,303 SF, .53 ACRE LOT

SOLD FOR $2,795,000

SOLD FOR $1,755,000

SOLD FOR $1,303,000

DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA | 925.878.8047

ALISON J. PETERSEN 925.984.7214

BRYAN HURLBUT 925.383.5500

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DON & PAMELA COLOMBANA 925.878.8047 925.482.4142

SOLD FOR 2,585,000

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EVA ELDERTS 925.726.9409

JOHN FONDNAZIO 925.817.9053

JULIE DEL SANTO 925.818.5500

KATIE HENDERSON 925.286.0026

KERI FRYER 925.980.9979

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MARY PISCITELLI & PETER GILLIS 925.765.9095 925.765.0629

MEREDITH & BONNIE KUMMELL 925.984.1344 925.980.9952

MICHAEL & JACKIE GERRY 925.209.5140 925.209.5130

SABRENA LAWTON 925.768.2992

STEFANIE PASSEY 925.268.0780

TERESA ZOCCHI 925.360.8662

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LESLIE SHAFTON 925.360.9192

MARGY LYMAN 925.963.6380

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WWW.DUDUM.COM ©2019 The information herein was obtained by sources deemed to be reliable by Dudum Real Estate Group. Dudum Real Estate group has not independently verified the information contained herein and therefore, assumes no legal responsibility for its accuracy. Buyer should investigate any matters or items disclosed, identified or about which they have concerns to their own satisfaction. DRE Lic. 01882902

PAGE 6 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

CALIFORNIA INDIANS: THE FIRST INHABITANTS AT THE MUSEUM OF THE SAN RAMON VALLEY

www.yourmonthlypaper.com

JoinJoin UsJoin in to to to UsOur inMission Our Mission UsOur in Mission

Fall is a time when ★ ★ ★ ★ Rem rbeee★ n★ or To ea h R m m bb★ eeor H o n r Rbeeeem m m rH Ho or n o rTce T ch h ★ Reem m rH n aT ceehaac the museum celebrates our first inhabitants. Archaeological findings show that the first people settled in California well over 5,000 years ago. The exhibit covers their housing, tools, entertainment, and food. Understand how Native Americans were able to harvest, process, and store food to last the winter. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the actual tools and implements that were used. An exciting addition this year is the display of handmade Indian baskets. These baskets had a variety of uses such as gathering, cooking, serving as water containers, sifting seeds, drying meats and fruits, and much more! ★ ★AM ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ ★ Basket weaving was considered a sacred tradition and an absolute necessity for the Indians. In a world that had no pantries, shelves or cupboards,NATIONAL W REATHS AREATHS CROSS AA MERICA D AY DAY D N W CROSS A MERICA NATIONAL ATIONAL W REATHS A CROSS A MERICA DAY AY NATIONAL WREATHS ACROSS A MERICA baskets were a critical item that served multiple purposes. Today, people are struck by the quality and beauty of these baskets. To be held at Baskets can be an equal part utilitarian object and exquisite works of Alamo Cemetery art. Even baskets woven for functional use may contain elaborate design El Portal off Danville Blvd. patterns and complex stitching. The museum is thankful to the collector for allowing them to display part of his collection. Contributions can be made to Please take the time to stop by and enjoy this wonderful exhibit. The WAA, P.O. Box 1, Danville, 94526 wreathsacrossamerica.org wreathsacrossamerica.org wreathsacrossamerica.or wreathsacrossamerica.org exhibit closes on November 10th. Sponsored by: The Museum is open Tuesday through Saturday from 1 PM to 4 PM San Ramon Valley Republican Women’s Club AM PM PM and Saturdays 10 to 1 . On Sundays, the hours are noon to 3 . The #EveryonePlaysAPart #EveryonePlaysAPart #EveryonePlaysAPart #EveryonePlaysAPart Museum is closed on Mondays. The Museum is located on the corner of Railroad and Prospect Avenues, 205 Railroad Avenue in downtown Danville. Free parking is available. CHROMATICA GOES TO THE FAR NORTH FOR For more information, call 925-837-3750 or visit www.musemsrv.org.

December 14,2019 December 14,2019 10 December 14,2019 December 14,2019

DANVILLE WOMEN’S CLUB EVENTS

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 17

Please join the GFWC Danville Women’s Club members at 242 W. Linda Mesa Ave., Danville, for their monthly luncheon and to hear Elaine Kociolek, program manager for Project Second Chance, who will discuss the literacy landscape in Contra Costa County and ways that community members can support the program’s efforts. Call (925) 837-1165 to make your reservation. Lunch is free for first-timers and $8 for others. Socializing begins at 11AM, followed by the speaker at 11:30AM, lunch at noon, and a business meeting at 1PM. Please stay for the business meeting, and learn more about the Club.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 24

Book a table or two for bridge and lunch at the Danville Women’s Club for $100/table. For reservations or questions, please call Mary at (925)8373860, make your check payable to GFWC Danville Women’s Club, and mail it to 281 Paraiso Drive, Danville, CA 94526.

ALAMO WOMEN'S CLUB MEMBERSHIP

Interested in joining a group with numerous opportunities for philanthropy, education, and fun? The Alamo Women's Club has groups that enjoy hiking, golf, wine and dine events, canasta, exploring, mah jong, quilting, and reading as well as devoting time to the many local charities they support. The Club also has monthly speakers who share information and their experience on current items of interest. The Club is always looking for women from all over the East Bay who bring new ideas, energy, and of course, a commitment to shaping the future. For more information visit www.alamowomensclub.org. Save the Date for the Club’s Looney Luau Crab Feed on January 25,2020!

ITS NORTHERN LIGHTS CONCERTS

Chromatica, the popular Danville chorus, will focus on the choral music of Northern European composers for its upcoming concerts. The first concert will be held on November 2nd at 7pm at Grace Presbyterian Church, located at 2100 Tice Valley Boulevard in Walnut Creek. The next will be held on Sunday, November 3rd at 3pm at Holy Shepherd Lutheran Church at 433 Moraga Way in Orinda. The final concert will be held at 7pm on November 9th at Peace Lutheran Church, located at 3201 Camino Tassajara in Danville. Tickets for the Danville concert will include the always popular wine reception afterwards. The Northern Lights concerts include music from well-known composers like Edvard Grieg with “Solveig’s Song” from Peer Gynt, to unpronounceable composers like Jaakko Mantyjarvi. His “Four Shakespearean Songs” are drawn from Twelfth Night, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Macbeth, and The Tempest. Norwegian composer Ola Gjeilo, now resident in the USA, has several pieces in the concerts including “Dark Night of the Soul,” “Luminous Night of the Soul,” and “The Rose.” These three pieces will be accompanied by a string quartet – it has long been Chromatica’s ambition to use instrumental as well as piano accompaniment. The popular Eriks Eisenvalds is represented by “Long Road” and his unique setting of “Amazing Grace.” Says founding music director David Huff: “We continue to find extraordinary choral music in unfamiliar places. These pieces are at once luminous, deeply felt and reflective of their environment. I’m excited to be performing with a string quartet for the first time. Our audiences will love this music as much as we do. Come and enjoy!” Chromatica was founded in 2011 and now includes 32 men and women singers. It has performed twelve prior series of ticketed concerts in the East Bay, attracting large and enthusiastic audiences. Led by David P. Huff, an outstanding director and operatic tenor who has sung both in New York and San Francisco, and accompanied by the exceptional pianist, Julie Rieth, it seeks to perform challenging pieces at a high level of professionalism. Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for students, and free for children 10 and under. For concert tickets and to find out more about Chromatica, visit www.chromaticachorale.org. Tickets for all concerts are also available at the door. For a more personal look you can find Chromatica on Facebook.

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October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 7

SOLD OFF MARKET PRIOR TO MLS

JUST LISTED

6 Scenic Court, Danville 4 Bed | 2.5 Bath | 2,825 Sq Ft +/- | $1,600,000 SOLD $62,000 OVER ASKING WITH MULTIPLE OFFERS

1451 Jackson Way, Alamo 4 Bed | 2.5 Bath | 2,941 Sq Ft +/- | $1,811,000

131 Sunhaven Road, Danville

SOLD $60,000 OVER ASKING WITH MULTIPLE OFFERS

4 Bed | 2.5 Bath | 3,000 Sq Ft +/- | .38 Acre +/$1,595,000 | 131SunhavenRoad.com Gorgeous remodeled single story in Magee Ranch! The coveted Inman model, this stunning home has been beautifully updated inside and out with gorgeous colors and finishes, and includes a sparkling pool and spa with waterfall feature. 3-car garage. Backs to open space. Close to dining, shopping, and award-winning San Ramon Valley schools. Fabulous location! SOLD $250,642 OVER ASKING WITH MULTIPLE OFFERS

126 Oakridge Drive, Danville 3 Bed | 2 Bath | 2,000 Sq Ft +/- | $1,155,000 SOLD $127,500 OVER ASKING WITH MULTIPLE OFFERS

866 El Pintado Road, Danville 5 Bed | 4.5 Bath | 4,589 Sq Ft +/- | $3,200,642

See my 58 Zillow reviews!

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15 Headland Court, Danville 4 Bed | 3.5 Bath | 3,296 Sq Ft +/- | $1,775,500

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

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PAGE 8 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

SAN RAMON VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

By Jamie Westgate, Principal

I love the month of October! Every year when I flip the calendar, I can’t help but think of all our preschool and elementary students who love to visit the pumpkin patch. Not only does a special outing to the local farm give students the opportunity to learn about the plant cycle, but it allows us to highlight a verse from John 15: I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. Just like Jesus took everyday things and turned them into parable messages, our students learn from the pumpkin patch that staying connected to God brings goodness, growth, and a life of abundant blessings. In addition, we learn that no two pumpkins are alike, and learning to appreciate those unique qualities is part of the fun of seeing so many pumpkins all at once. In a similar way, God must have had a lot of fun when He designed each child; He made each one unique, special, and valuable! This October, we are looking forward to hosting an Open House on Friday, October 18th, 10AM-11:30AM, at Community Presbyterian Church in Danville (our campus location). A brief presentation will give prospective families the opportunity to meet teachers, students, and fellow parents. We are excited to share firsthand testimonies about the impact of Christian education. Visitors will hear about the benefits of a school experience that addresses the “whole child” including intentional efforts to shape the heart of a child. The event will end with campus tours and classroom visits. We encourage visitors to check out our website for more information, www. srvca.org. Everyone is welcome!

ALAMO ELEMENTARY

By Stan Hitomi, Principal THERE’S A NEW SHERIFF IN TOWN

How often do we hear the phrase, “There’s a new sheriff in town”?At Alamo Elementary, that is literally the case this year. Actually, since last year we have been fortunate to have a second fully credentialed school administrator on campus, Mrs. Ava Angeletopoulos. Mrs. Angeletopoulos has been an administrator in the SRVUSD since 2011, including three years as assistant principal at Hidden Hills Elementary and summer school principal at John Baldwin Elementary. Mrs. Angeletopoulos’ official title this year will be Teacher-In-Charge (TIC), but in reality she will be our acting principal whenever I am off campus. The many district initiatives and meetings that I am being required to attend are adding up to a lot of time that our little school is without an administrator on campus. With Mrs. “A” as our TIC, I feel confident that on those days when I am off campus, our students and staff will be in good hands. At Alamo Elementary, we are always looking for ways to better prepare our students for life at school and beyond. Our focus this year has turned to Character Development and Engagement at school. We are looking at positive ways that we can model good behavior and at the same time get our students excited and engaged. Last week, we rolled out “Alamo Pride Tickets.” Every staff member on campus has been given tickets which they can award to students who they witness demonstrating one of six character traits: citizenship, caring, fairness, respect, responsibility, and trustworthiness. One copy of the Alamo Pride Ticket goes home to share with the family, and the other ticket is given to the office. Each week, one student from each grade is selected from the past week’s tickets to be a Mustang Pride Award recipient who has their name read on the PA system and a photograph taken with the principal. How cool is that? The kids love the program, and we have seen immediate impacts that this program is making in our classrooms and on the playground. Each week, the names of the Mustang Pride Award will be featured in the Mustang News. Recent award recipients are: Week #1, K- Zoey Zink – Responsibility, 1st - Adrian Parkinson – Respect, 2nd - Savanna Ngyuen – Caring, 3rd - Bear Rudick – Responsibility, 4th - Karis Kiltz – Citizenship, 5th - Cole Gorski – Citizenship. Week #2, K- Kevin Lee - Citizenship, 1st - Lauren Ross - Citizenship, 2nd - Adelyn Logan - Caring , 3rd - Matthew Naquin - Trustworthiness, 4th - Niki Feiz - Responsibility, 5th - Ava Jack - Fairness.

MONTAIR ELEMENTARY

By Ondi Tricaso, Principal

Montair is off to a strong start this year! Our character trait of the month is “Inclusivity,” and we are working to connect with and include all members of our community. August and September were a whirlwind of community events. We enjoyed our Back-to-School Ice Cream Social, three Back-to-School nights, a pizza luncheon, our Common Grounds Coffee, and Family Movie Night. Whew! None of these wonderful events would be possible without our dedicated Montair parents and PTA. On October 6th, we will continue connecting as a community at our Montair carnival. Our carnival is a wonderful event filled with games to play, a cake decorating contest, a giant slide, animals to pet, face painting, a very spooky haunted house, and much more. While the carnival officially begins at noon, every year, we have a soft start for children who need a little quieter, less crowded start to the event. I appreciate all of the families who participate in making Montair so special for ALL of our kids. It’s going to be a great year together!

VISTA GRANDE ELEMENTARY

By Osi Juergens, Principal

Vista Grande students and teachers are in full swing as we conclude our second month of school. Our Back-toSchool Picnic was a wonderful way to mingle and enjoy some time with our families. Thank you PTA for a great event, and thanks to all of our parent volunteers for the time they spend on our campus in our classrooms; your support is very appreciated! We enjoyed our Street Smarts Assembly which reminded our students the importance of being safe on the road. Our first Flag Ceremony of the school year took place in and we look forward to this tradition continuing. Vista Grande is excited to participate in the Annual Run for Education on October 12th and 13th, and we hope you can join us! Sign up under Vista Grande Falcons to support our school. Our school community is also looking forward to our annual carnival and this year’s theme is “The Vista Grande Boardwalk.” Come on down and enjoy the fun from 10am-3pm on October 19th. Our students and staff are enjoying the school year and the learning that is taking place on our campus in our TK-5th grade classrooms!

ST. ISIDORE SCHOOL

HAPPY OCTOBER By Maria Ward, Principal

Fall is officially here! We say goodbye to the warm days of summer and hello to the cooler days of autumn. The leaves on the trees are beginning to change, the days are noticeably shorter, and the air is starting to feel crisp. It’s a wonderful time in nature and a great opportunity to reflect on the many blessings God has given us. This October, we gather together to enjoy the Parish Fall Festival and the excitement only the holiday of Halloween can bring. We are excited to announce that the St. Isidore Parish will be hosting a Fall Festival on Saturday, October 19, from 10am–4pm. The festival will be fun for the whole family and will feature food, drink, an assortment of carnival games, music, face painting, and a pumpkin patch. Gather your friends and family, and head on down for some fun.

MINDFULNESS MATTERS

SIS will once again be partnering with Stanford’s Challenge Success Program, hoping to help students with coping strategies, communication, and life-balance skills. This school year, the staff has chosen to focus on Classroom Mindfulness. Mindfulness is about learning to train your attention on the present moment without dwelling on what has happened in the past or worrying about the future. Teachers will be incorporating mindfulness techniques into their routine, encouraging students to develop an understanding and appreciation of health in mind and body.

COME GROW WITH US

Please join us on Friday, October 18, at 10am for our TK-8 Information Meeting. The meeting is a great opportunity to explore our campus, learn about our rich history, see our teachers and students in action, and learn more about our curriculum. RSVP on our website, www.stisidore.org.

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GREENBROOK ELEMENTARY

By Rhea Murphy, Principal

It’s hard to believe Greenbrook Elementary began their seventh week of school! In addition to joining the whole district with the focused theme of “We want you here,” in an effort to prioritize attendance, we want to create an environment at our school where every child feels they belong. We have many programs in place that give kids an opportunity to be a leader, such as involvement in Valet (helping students in and out of cars in the morning) and recently electing student council members. We are particularly proud of three programs that we’ll highlight to share the importance of inclusion for all students. In the first program, we use “Sanford Harmony,” a social-emotional learning program for all students. Each grade level has “Meet -Ups” and “Buddy-Ups”

October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 9

CONSULTING AND ADVOCACY FOR FAMILY DYNAMICS AND SCHOOL PROBLEMS

By Harry, Gael Michaels, MA, LMFT, LEP

During my career, I have worked with young people, their parents, and school personnel, and I have seen that entering the adult world of work and relationships has become more complex and anxiety provoking. My new practice has the purpose of ameliorating the process of matriculating from childhood to the responsibilities of the “grown up” world with a confident and optimistic disposition. I have three approaches to accomplishing this objective: 1. Family dynamics, and by that, I mean assessing and improving the interactive relationships within the family complex, because human personalities are complex. We have temperaments, attitudinal dispositions, values, likes and dislikes, and needs. We all want to have happy, rewarding, and compatible relationships, but sometimes it may require some close attention to interactive dynamics and functional details. How often is it that a parent misperceives their child’s will to have his or her own way in some instance as a threat to parental authority when it is only the child’s need to grow toward handling more responsibility and personal competence? 2. Interceding on behalf of parents as to the functional adaptability of their child in school. Sometimes the work of the school psychologist can be of great help in clarifying a special problem a child has to deal with in the classroom or on the school grounds, with his or her peers, the school staff, or with the child’s own inner self -perceptions. 3. In preparing a school-aged child for the task of matriculating into the adult world he/she needs guidance and assistance in developing his or her understanding of their own personality as it would relate to the “world of work” and healthy, rewarding relationships. All this can be done in a systematic way through testing and counseling. Angie Corritone, Instructional coach in the district for Equity, leads Ms.Eplins’ students According to the highly respected developmental psychologist, Erik in a “Global Handshake” program, learning about the different ways people greet each other in different countries. Erikson, knowing and accepting one’s true self is critically important in achieving a successful work and relationship life. where kids learn compassion, problem solving skills, and embrace diversity. My practice is about helping young people find what is the best in them This program helps students build healthy relationships with each other and choosing congruent goals for the future. It is my belief that a happy citizen through attitudes and skills that we hope will last well into adulthood. is a productive and socially responsible citizen. Secondly, we focus on a character trait of the month. Fifth grade teacher I am a U.S. Army veteran and a retired school psychologist with current Pamela Vamvouris, and fourth grade teacher Michelle Cowles, introduce licenses as a Marriage Family Therapist #4216 and Educational Psychologist challenges for our entire school to participate in. In September, we focused on #735. I have lived many years with my wife, Bea in the Crow Canyon Country “Trustworthiness.” For example, all teachers read books such as The Empty Pot Club. My background is broad and extensive. I began as a juvenile probation and Too Many Tamales. When the stories have been read there will be activiofficer in Santa Clara County, and then I worked as a school psychologist in ties to help support the main idea of those books -- such as the importance of being trusted. San Mateo County, from which I retired. In the interim between these two Lastly, Greenbrook loves our annual “Greenbrook Goes Global” event, where careers, I directed and taught at a continuation high school in south Sacraparents help organize a virtual trip around the world. Students get passports mento County and did my school psychology internship in Yolo County at stamped as they visit each booth. Diversity is celebrated by sharing foods and the primary and elementary levels. After receiving my Masters degree from customs from countries that represent our Greenbrook students. As part of our Sacramento State University, I was employed as a guidance counselor at the “No Place for Hate” program, Greenbrook Goes Global helps students celebrate American School in Recife, Brazil. During this time, I also represented the the uniqueness of what makes Greenbrook special. This celebration provides Educational Testing Service for northeastern Brazil and provided the GRE one of many opportunities for kids in our school to be kind to each other – even and TOEFL for Brazilian graduate students wishing to seek admittance to if they are not like us - and to learn in a place where kids feel safe and happy! graduate schools in the U.S. Before being hired as a school psychologist in the San Mateo County area, I served one year as the staff psychologist at the RANCHO ROMERO ELEMENTARY Diagnostic School for Neurologically Handicapped Children in San Francisco. By Sandy Kontilis, Principal For questions, or to make an appointment, I can be reached at 925September at Rancho Romero was like fire in an engine! 718-5584 or harrygael86@gmail.com. Advertorial Students, teachers, parents, and community engaged at the school resulting in extraordinary learning. Our PTA held an Ice Cream Social on a hot Thursday evening. Over 150 students and families participated in one of our first of many community builders. Fifteen tubs of ice cream later, new and old friendships were united to provide the backdrop for summer fun. Academic achievement for all is our school’s mission. Our teachers have dived in to their curriculum with the purpose of supporting all students. Mathematicians, readers, writers, scientists, and athletes are blooming under the guidance and superior teaching of our Rancho Romero staff. Since students are unique beings, a one size fits all approach to learning is unrealistic. Ensuring that all students learn at their highest level, we have a systematized identification process for students needing more. Whether a reteach or an extension of lessons, our Snap Shot process distinguishes needs by student and standard. Additionally, in recent times, extensive research supports that a student who is socially and emotionally content feels safe in their learning environment. This year Soul Shoppe and Sanford Harmony are a few of the programs that are used to provide our students with tools to positively deal with their emotions. Classrooms where everyone feels they belong lend a backdrop to high levels of learning. Rancho Romero is peeking at October which will bring parent-teacher conferences, the Run for Education, and assemblies. It will be a very busy time but completely rewarding. Around here, we don’t look backwards for very long…we keep moving forward, opening up new doors, and doing new things because we’re curious… and curiosity keeps leading us down new paths. ~Walt Disney

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PAGE 10 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

MONTE VISTA HIGH SCHOOL

By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal

As Monte Vista (MV) enters the third month of the school year, our students and staff are completely engaged with a full schedule of academics, arts, athletics, and activities. There is an incredible amount of learning going on. I am always happy to visit classrooms and see that MV is truly blessed to work with such an amazing group of students and educators. In mid-September, eight MV seniors were named as National Merit Scholars as well as an additional 48 earning academic commendations. These recognitions come with our high success rate on the PSAT, which is a nationally normed exam. In mid-October, all 10th and 11th graders at MV will take the PSAT once again and we hope that this continues to result in more equitable student access and even more recognized scholars. MV’s athletic teams have all enjoyed amazing starts to their respective fall seasons. MV’s football team is 4 – 1, regionally ranked, and aims to challenge for an EBAL title. MV’s women’s tennis is vying for an EBAL championship and another NCS championship and MV’s men’s and women’s water polo teams are both undefeated so far. MV women’s volleyball team is back in form as they continue as unbeaten in EBAL play and compete for another banner and a deep playoff run. MV’s men’s and women’s cross country both won Ed Sias Invitational championships back in September and are in position for both EBAL and NCS titles and women’s golf has gotten off to a fast start in the EBAL. I look forward to sharing more about the Mustangs as the fall season moves on. MV’s Arts programs have also been very busy. Our marching band has entertained our fans at all home football games and our choir has performed their annual Bach to School concert in addition to performing at a number of community events. dance and drama will add more performances as we move deeper into the fall season. Homecoming Week is set for October 7th through October 12th. There will be a number of events going on throughout the week with the festivities culminating at our Friday Homecoming Game against Foothill and the Homecoming Dance on Saturday evening. There are many opportunities to see the great things our students are doing – just check the Monte Vista website at mvhs.schoolloop.com for the latest about what is happening on our campus. I invite the community to come to any of our events and support our outstanding students. Thank you for all your support.

AN OVERLOOKED PLIGHT: LABOR TRAFFICKING IN CONTRA COSTA COUNTY By Candace Andersen

When you hear the words “human trafficking,” you probably think of prostitution and sex. Sex trafficking is undoubtedly the most well-known form of involuntary servitude and a widespread problem affecting the Bay Area and our nation as a whole. However, there is another type of human trafficking that is slowly gaining more awareness. Labor trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery in which individuals perform labor or services through the use of force, fraud, or coercion, according to the National Human Trafficking Resource Center. Labor trafficking includes situations of debt bondage, forced labor, and involuntary child labor. The victims are subjected to violence, threats, lies, and other forms of coercion to force people to work against their will in many industries. Law enforcement agencies have deemed certain jobs and industries as common venues where labor trafficking can be found, including farms and agriculture, restaurants and food service, factories, carnivals, construction, hospitality, forestry and logging, bars and strip clubs, and many others. The abuse the individuals endure, according to law enforcement, can range from individuals working in homes as domestic servants, farm workers being coerced through violence while harvesting crops, or factory workers held in inhumane conditions with little to no pay. Additionally, individuals who are prone to becoming a victim of labor trafficking may be someone who owes a significantly large debt, has no control over his or her own money, or has no financial records or bank account. In 2016, various non-profit agencies served 110 human trafficking survivors (35 of whom were exploited children) in Contra Costa County. Of those individuals, seven survivors were involved in both sex and labor trafficking, four in labor trafficking, and 99 were survivors of sex trafficking. Sex and labor trafficking are not mutually exclusive, according to law enforcement, as victims can often be found subjected to both simultaneously. The data on labor trafficking, however, is most likely a severe underestimate of the true amount taking place in Contra Costa, as labor trafficking is harder to identify than sex trafficking, according to the Contra Costa Human Trafficking Coalition. “Commercial sex is itself illegal,” noted Contra Costa Deputy District Attorney Dana Filkowski, who is a San Ramon Valley resident. “Social media and the internet have provided law enforcement with different ways to cut down on the illegal trade, while also supplying strong evidence for prosecution. But with labor trafficking – we don’t have anything that appears overtly illegal … even to a trained observer. A police officer who drives by a construction site can’t tell if the workers are being paid less than minimum wage under a threat to report them to ICE and have them deported if they complain. A detective eating at a buffet restaurant can’t know whether the

owner is withholding the passports and visas of the kitchen crew to keep them from leaving. Neighbors can’t know that the nanny from another country is being forced to cook and clean in addition to the child care responsibilities she was originally hired to perform, that she’s given no time off and is paid minuscule wages directly deposited into an account in her home country that she can’t access. Even if law enforcement sees it, these behaviors don’t readily translate into crimes that they are used to investigating.” Filkowski added that the cultural acceptance for hiring workers “under the table” to avoid paying the actual costs of labor, plus required taxes and workers compensation insurance, has also led many to turn a blind eye to the exploitation taking place. Since labor trafficking is much more difficult to identify than sex trafficking, the scope of labor trafficking in the U.S. continues to be challenging for law enforcement and other stakeholders. In Contra Costa County in 2016, only one labor trafficking survivor was identified by law enforcement, a telling sign of just how difficult labor trafficking is to identify. Moreover, coalition partners in the County provided over 80 services to labor trafficking victims in 2016. The Coalition is comprised of over 30 partner agencies including a wide range of service providers, community-based organizations, law enforcement, the District Attorney’s Office and other local and national governmental departments. District Attorney Diana Becton recently created a Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit within the District Attorney’s Office, which will be staffed by Filkowski, who understands the challenges ahead but is also optimistic given recent developments around targeting all forms of human trafficking. Additionally, a Human Trafficking Hotline has been established to take reports of forced or coerced commercial sex and labor. The Unit will monitor the Hotline and coordinate a response from appropriate law enforcement and advocacy partners with the goal of holding offenders accountable and connecting victims to services and support. If you or someone you know has information regarding any acts or suspicions of human trafficking, please call 925-957-8658. Most importantly, Filkowski says, there will be specific efforts to partner with victim advocacy organizations to gain the trust of victims and help them feel safe in working with law enforcement to hold exploiters accountable during their time of recovery. As for the public, Filkowski believes raising awareness of labor trafficking is an important first step that will also bring positive results. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon, and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@ bos.cccounty.us or 925-957-8860.

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October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 11

Make Your Move With Us.

9008 Elk Drive, Clayton Sold for $985,000

1730 Arkell Road, Walnut Creek Sold for $915,000

1712 Netto Court, Concord Sold for $775,000

2275 Bluebell Drive, Livermore Sold for $675,000

207 Acacia Lane, Alamo Sold for $1,025,000

4097 Krolop Road, Castro Valley Sold for $975,000

15210 Andover Street, San Leandro Sold for $710,000

61 Via Linares, San Lorenzo Sold for $700,000

Carol B. Reeves 925.998.0502 carol@carolreeves.com DRE 00790253

Doreen Francisco LaScala 925.998.0611 doreenfrancisco@sbcglobal.net DRE 00657246

A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates, LLC. The information contained herein has been provided by various sources which may include the seller, public records, multiple listing service, or others. Prospective buyers are advised to conduct their own investigation of the property and the information contained herein, utilizing licensed professionals where appropriate, before purchasing this property.

VALLEY VIGNETTE

By Beverly Lane THE MEMORABLE UNION ACADEMY

Determined pioneers organized Contra Costa County’s first high school in the San Ramon Valley in 1859. Named the Union Academy, it was a private high school located midway between Alamo and Danville and served both day and boarding students. A Historical Society sign on Danville Blvd. across from El Portal recalls the school’s location. This school was initiated by the Cumberland Presbyterian Church Synod in 1857 when it appointed three county residents to select a county high school location. Protestant churches were in the forefront of school-founding movements in the West. Ministers often were commissioned by East Coast missionary societies to establish new high schools. In Contra Costa, the search committee members were from Martinez, Lafayette, and the San Ramon Valley. They looked for a site, but in the end, each wanted the high school in his own community. Responding to this impasse, the Synod appointed a committee of five non-residents to select the location; they chose the centrally located community of Pacheco. According to the July 11, 1868, Contra Costa Gazette, “This selection did not suit the parties in the San Ramon neighborhood (and) they took up the matter on their own account, erected the building, and placed the school in charge of Rev. David McClure.” Alamo’s Mary Jones recalled that leading residents organized the Contra Costa Educational Association, with Silas Stone, John M. Jones, and Robert Love on the first Board of Trustees. Stock was sold by the Association to support the new school, and August Hemme sold 2 ½ acres of his large ranch to the Trustees. The land was listed as worth $200 in the 1860 Deed Book, but the philanthropic Hemme may have sold it for less. The cornerstone was laid on October 19, 1859. The Union Academy was a two-story building with windows and a basement. As the largest building in the San Ramon Valley, it also hosted meetings, graduations, and church services. It cost $32 a month for a high school student to board.

The school opened in the spring of 1860, and its courses, trustees, purposes, and fees were featured prominently on the front page of the Contra Costa Gazette. Primary and intermediate departments were also available. The academic curriculum was based on that of the San Francisco School Department and included Greek and Latin. For an extra charge, there was instruction in music (with use of instrument), drawing, and painting. Vocal music and calisthenics formed a part of the daily exercises for which there was no extra fee. The director, Presbyterian minister David McClure, was very modern in his approach. The May 5 Gazette stated that McClure was aiming for the “symmetrical development and discipline of the various powers of the mind, the formation of good physical constitution, ease and grace of manners, kindness and courtesy in social intercourse – having special reference to the best practical preparation for the duties of this life, and also to that moral and religious culture which shall fit them for the life to come.” John Swett, California’s superintendent of public instruction in 1862, had nothing but praise for the school: It is “pleasantly situated, with a succession of rolling hills in the background, the fertile valley around, and Mount Diablo, with its tawny hills in the distance…Success to all such civilizing influences as Mr. McClure’s Seminary.” Each June, the school had graduation exercises which included examinations of the scholars. The Gazette on June 23, 1860, said the “young masters acquitted themselves in a highly creditable and satisfactory manner” before an audience of 400 people. The program included Music and Declamation, Delivery of Pieces, Tableaux, Calisthenics, and a Party Song. The academy was a prime example of the importance of education to families in rural California and in the San Ramon Valley. Most in the community supported it through thick and thin, although some local farmers objected to music and calisthenics as part of the instruction. Student James D. Smith, wrote about the monthly Academy parties. “They played games, danced the Virginia Reel, Money Musk, and Cotillions with McClure playing the violin and instructing us in the intricacies of the different steps. At the conclusion of the dance, we were furnished a light repast. We were then asked to kneel, and our teacher would offer a prayer, after which we were dismissed.” On July 6, 1868, after the school had closed for the summer, the Academy burned to the ground. No one was hurt, but the satisfaction and convenience of having their own high school came to an end for Valley settlers. It took 42 years before the next valley high school was founded, the San Ramon Valley Union High School.

Sources: Contra Costa Gazette, July 11, 1868; Virgie V. Jones’ Remembering Alamo; J. D. Smith,“Coming of Gringo to Contra Costa,” Contra Costa Gazette, Oct. 23, 1925

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PAGE 12 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

New Member Spotlight

The Joint Chiropractic 413 Railroad Ave., Danville (925)892-3425 www.thejoint.com

117-E Town & Country Dr. Danville, CA 94525 Phone: (925) 837-4400 Fax: (925) 837-5709 business@danvilleareachamber.com

Wheelchair continued from front page

spent her days sitting in a box while her parents worked. Behring writes: “When we gave her a wheelchair, the mother was incredibly grateful. She told us that for the first time, her child would be able to move around the house. It would allow her to go to school and receive an education. No longer would she be confined to a box. She would have a future.” An essential part of the message From the Heart brings to local schools is that wheelchairs are a source of opportunity rather than limitation, and that wheelchair users are enabled rather than disabled by their means of achieving mobility. Josh Routh takes the lead in demonstrating the point. Born with Cerebral Palsy, Josh is skilled at propelling his wheelchair in basketball competitions, to work, as a volunteer at School of the Imagination in Don Routh (L) and Josh Routh (R) with wheelchair Dublin, and throughout Latin recipient in Columbia paralyzed in a mining America on Wheelchair Foun- accident. Photo courtesy of Wheelchair Foundation. dation distribution trips to remote villages with dad Don and amigo Bill. Wheelchair Foundation Community Outreach Director Barbara Bosse partners with Josh at school assemblies.“I like to refer to Josh as my secret weapon,” she says. “He has a unique way of connecting with students and teachers alike. He demonstrates to students how he gets in and out of his wheelchair, how he can shoot hoops, and how he is also very comfortable answering all of their questions no matter how awkward they may seem. On one occasion, a little girl said, ‘I feel sorry for you.’ Josh replied, ‘Don’t feel sorry for me. I can do amazing things because I have this wheelchair.’” Schools interested in taking advantage of the program are encouraged to tailor it to their needs. Bosse explains, “As a teacher myself, I understand how difficult it is to ask teachers to add one more thing to their already full calendars. I like to impress upon prospective schools, ‘How can we make the program work for you?’ I empha-

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size the flexibility of our program and the many ways it can be tailored to fit each school’s needs.” Black Tie Transportation founder Bill Wheeler donates delivery of wheelchairs to schools for students to experience what an hour or a day in a wheelchair is like. One middle school student wrote: “From this experience I learned that people treat you a whole lot different when you’re in a wheelchair. People treated me at two extremes. They either cared for me and did everything they absolutely could or they took advantage of me, used me as a racecar, or pushed me as fast as they could, even as I yelled for them to stop.” Fundraising for wheelchair deliveries is included as an aspect of the program. Some teachers use the project to emphasize math. Others ask students to write to community organizations or visit them in person to hone their communication skills. The top fundraiser is Lydikesen School in Pleasanton. Strong supporters in SRVUSD include Tassajara Hills, Montair, Hidden Hills, Diablo Vista, Windermere Ranch, Pine Valley, Barbara Bosse gets a hug from Dougherty Valley High, Monte Vista and San wheelchair recipient in Columbia. Photo Ramon Valley High. Some teachers and students courtesy of Wheelchair Foundation. join the summer wheelchair delivery teams to Latin America. This July’s Columbia journey accomplished seven distributions in five days, including one home visit. Personal connections underscore their achievement for every educator and student involved in From the Heart. Bosse notes: “Students are asked to write letters in Spanish that are then given to each wheelchair recipient on a distribution trip. In return, the student receives a reply in the form of a handwritten letter from the person and/or the family receiving the gift of a wheelchair. The personal connection between our students participating in letter writing and the recipients of the wheelchair helps demonstrate that a little effort on the student’s part makes a huge difference in the lives of others.”

See Wheelchair continued on page 19

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QUICK TRIPS

CALIFORNIA TRAIL AT OAKLAND ZOO By Linda Summers Pirkle

Since the 1950’s, the puppet Guignol, in his red bow tie and brown cape, and his sidekick, Gnafron have been performing in the Jardin d’Acclimatation, a charmingly lo-tech family park located in Paris. The adorable puppet show is a classic crowd pleaser. Every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, an enthusiastic audience of kids shout “Guignol!” in anticipation for the puppet show to start. Generations of children have enjoyed Guignol’s adventures in the park’s Guignol Theater. When my kids were young, no trip to Paris was complete without a day in Jardin d’Acclimatation. This historic park, which opened in 1860, offers all sorts of activities for little kids including a mini merry-go-round, River of Boats, Champion Drivers, and of course, Guignol Theater. Bigger kids love the flying chairs, zip-line, and speed rockets. All ages from wee ones to seniors can enjoy the park. My favorite attraction has always been the Enchanted River, a lazy river boat ride through gardens. The best thing about the park, in my opinion, is that it is decidedly low tech. Families meander on pathways throughout the park under trees and through gardens. Since it is Paris, you don’t have to look far for a spot to enjoy a coffee and a buttery croissant or frites with spicy moutarde. Jardin d’Acclimatation is gentle on the senses. Another place that is gentle on the senses and fun for all ages is the California Trail, the new addition to the Oakland Zoo. Doubling the size of the existing zoo, California Trail

October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 13

opened in July 2018 after two decades of planning and three years after they first broke ground. My two daughters, new grandbaby, and I recently visited the California Trail. We saw wild animals up close, had delicious food in the award-winning new restaurant, and enjoyed spectacular views of the San Francisco Bay Area. To get to the new part of the zoo, we boarded a smooth-running gondola that transported us 650 feet above sea level in a four-minute ride to the entrance of California Trail. It was a balmy day, so warm breezes wafted through the open barred sides as we gently rolled up over the hills to the California Trail entrance. The sleek electric pod is roomy enough for a stroller (and is ADA compliant) along with six passengers to sit comfortably. California Trail is a wild animal park with animal species housed in very large spaces. The new residents include American buffalo, black bears, grizzly bears, mountain lions, jaguars, California condors, gray wolves, and bald eagles. I was most impressed with the habitat for the grizzlies. One very content bear rolled and bobbed in an open-air pond, clearly enjoying herself on a warm day. She brought her huge brown furry head up out of the water a mere three feet from our vantage point; the only barrier is a very strong thick protective glass window. The Oakland Zoo and California Trail are located at 9777 Golf Links Road, Oakland. Their website is oaklandzoo.org. Their phone number is 510-6329525. The zoo is open Monday-Friday 10AM-4:30PM and weekends and holidays 9:30AM-4:30PM. Linda Summers Pirkle, travel writer, consultant, and long-term Danville resident, has arranged and led tours for the Town of Danville for several years. She is currently working on a guide featuring off-the-beaten path destinations. To share your “Quick Trips” ideas, email Coverthemap@gmail.com.

6 7 Serve Day CPC Danville www.cpcdanville.org

Monday

Sunday

9 BBR-Sunrise Alliance 7:30-8:30am @Danville Area Chamber Offices

2 BBR - The Connector's 9-10am @Danville Area Chamber Offices

Wednesday

Tuesday

10 October Mixer 5:30pm @Precision Chiropractic

4 Ambassador Committee Meeting 9-10am @Danville Area Chamber Offices

5 D.A.M.E - Danville’s Artful Makers Expo 10:00am-4:00pm @Danville Senior Center

Saturday

Library Book Sale 9am-5pm (Members) 10am-5pm (Public) @Danville Library

11 Small Business Council Workshop 7:45-9:00am @Veterans Memorial Hall

Comedy with Liz Grant & Friends 7:30-9:30pm @Village Theatre

Trail Mixer 3:30-6:30pm @Lafayette Reservoir Upper Rim Trail

12 Library Book Sale 10am-4pm @Danville Library

Serve Day Walk-Tober 5K for CPC Danville Your Health www.cpcdanville.org 9am @Danville Community Center

Friday

Thursday

Community Calendar

PAGE 14 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

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BBR Business Connection 11:30am-12:30pm @Danville Area Chamber Offices

Library Book Sale 12:05-3:45pm @Danville Library

14 Columbus Day

13 Run for Education 8-10am 2700 Camino Ramon San Ramon CA

BBR Business Connection 11:30am-12:30pm @Danville Area Chamber Offices

Tuesday

Monday

Sunday

23 BBR-Sunrise Alliance 7:30-8:30am @Danville Area Chamber Offices

16 BBR - The Connector's 9:00-10:00am @Danville Area Chamber Offices

Wednesday

Halloween

Spooktacular Celebration 4-5:30pm @Valley Oak Room

24 Artists' Opening Reception: Off the Wall! Affordable Art Exhibit 5:30-7:30pm @Village Theatre

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

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PAGE 16 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

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CLIP NOTES

By Jody Morgan

“S omething or someone has recently stirred the very dormant interest in California Milkweeds into quite an effervescence,” wrote Lester Rowntree in Hardy Californians, published in 1936. Nobody was worried yet about monarch butterflies and the dependence of their caterpillars on various species of milkweed as their sole means of sustenance. Lester began traveling throughout California, seeking native plants in their often-remote natural habitats, before Roy Clapham coined the term “ecosysServing the Bay Area with honesty and integrity since 1973 tem” in 1930. She wove her observations into a tome highlighting those she deemed gar2395 Monument Blvd., Suite J 3191-J Crow Canyon Pl den-worthy just as Arthur Tansley issued the Concord San Ramon Carpets, Hardwood, Laminate & Stone (925) 680-4433 first full definition of the ecosystem concept (925) 866-2200 Since 1973 www.MacFloor.com • info@macfloor.com (Across from Costco Gas Station, next to Harvest House) in 1935. Rowntree continues: “Until recently, people have been saying, ---‘Oh, it’s only disrupt the vicious cycle. Fortunately, this environmentally sound, easy to perform Milkweed!’ and going on. But apparently a few persons have stopped to take measure gives responsible gardeners the opportunity to continue growing this another look at the beautiful detail of the flower. Or perhaps they have been struck non-native favorite. by the architectural value of the plants and have visualized them in such and such Monarchs west of the Rockies winter along the California Coast rather than a garden location, or have realized the beauty of the splendid large, often silvery, making the 2,000-mile migration to Mexico achieved at great peril by their Eastern downy leaves.” Close to 50 years later, scientists began seriously studying monarch cousins. A single 2002 storm wiped out 500 million migrating monarchs. Popubutterfly populations, and eventually many gardeners stopped thinking of their lation statistics recorded since 1993 indicate alarming declines with occasionally larval host plants as “weeds” and began searching for sources of milkweed seeds an encouraging up tick. and plants to introduce into their home landscapes. What should you plant? Two native California milkweeds have proven to be Native species of milkweed were usually dismissed as a weedy nuisance until garden-worthy. Both tolerate low water and summer heat. My experience suggests the popular press picked up the news that monarch caterpillars require a diet patience is required while milkweeds settle in to a cultivated space. Once establimited exclusively to their leaves. Nevertheless, members of the milkweed clan lished, they are tenacious. Narrow-leaved milkweed (Asclepias fasicularis) is easiest perform numerous valuable services in the ecosystems they inhabit. The flowers to grow. The two-inch clusters of pale pink flowers appear June-September. Plants are a nectar source for many other kinds of butterflies, several types of bees, and are winter dormant. hummingbirds. Birds eat the seeds and use parts of the plants including fibers in Showy milkweed (Asclepias speciosa) has rosier pink clusters of fragrant flowers the stalks and the silky hairs attached to the seeds for nesting materials. up to four-inches across and large oval green leaves. The cultivar ‘Davis’ has downy Don’t be surprised to find other creatures putting holes in your milkweed silver foliage. These plants are also winter dormant. Some monarch watch groups leaves. There are red and black milkweed beetles, orange and black milkweed bugs, advise, “Plant it and they will come!” They should say: “Plant enough and they will milkweed tussock moth caterpillars, and aphids happily feeding in the milkweed come eventually.” Pollinators need to see a large display of attractive flowers from patch. Despite the natural protection afforded by the toxins in the milky sap that the air to lure them to a garden. Bringing them back to an area they have vacated gives the plants their common name, there are predators capable of digesting may take a year or two or even more. monarch caterpillars including paper wasps, tachnid flies, and spiders. Established in 2017 by the Western Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, Oops! A little knowledge can be a very dangerous thing. Instead of choosing the the Western Monarch Working Group adopted a regional conservation plan native milkweeds Rowntree describes in detail, gardeners and ecology-minded on January 5, 2019. The plan sets population size and habit conservation goals, groups planted a showy tropical milkweed (Asclepius curassavica) from South strategies, and actions for the monarchs that overwinter along the California coast America in perennial beds and along roadsides. Yes, adult butterflies flock to and breed throughout the western states. it. But the evergreen foliage hosts the parasite Ophyocystis elektroscirrha (OE). Caterpillars ingest the parasite and emerge from their chrysalises covered in OE MOUNT DIABLO ROSE SOCIETY spores. The infected adults are weakened. Nurseries that still sell the species (also The Mount Diablo Rose Society meets the second Wednesday of the known as Mexican milkweed) advise cutting the plants to the ground in the fall to month from September through June at 7:30pm in the Community Room of the Dublin Public Library at 200 Civic Plaza, Dublin. Enjoy fascinating PUMPKIN PASSION programs presented by rose experts and meet new friends who love garA “Pumpkin Passion” presentation will be held at the Danville Alamo dening as much as you do. For more info, visit www.mtdiablorosesociety. th AM Garden Club (DAGC) on Thursday, October 10 at 9 . Led by Rebecca org or email secretary@mtdiablorosesociety.org. Byrom, Patty Davis, and Joyce Michalczyk, these three members have bonded over pumpkins! Come and see why these three are definitely “pumpkin people.” You will be educated and entertained with a bit of horticulture information, a slide show, pumpkin crafts (win a beautiful pumpkin arrangement), pumpkin décor, and pumpkin food. This should certainly increase your appreciation of the iconic autumn plant and have you heading for the nearest pumpkin patch! DAGC meets on the second Thursday of the months September to June starting at 9AM at the Alamo Women’s Club located at 1401 Danville Blvd, Alamo. The public is welcome to attend October through May (except December) with a guest fee of $10. For questions, email membershipvp@dagc.us or visit www.dagc.us.

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PAGE 18 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

THE MAGIC OF HARVEST

By Monica Chappell

What is the magical mix of chemistry and craft that turns a grape on the vine into wine in your glass? Perhaps equal parts art and science, wine-making has evolved over human history to represent the best of both. From the home wine-maker to the modern-day lab, there has always been a touch of magic in making wine – but today, we have the power to get the wizardry right, time after time. While the specific wine-making practices still vary by country, region, and vintner, a generally accepted process – a universal language of the vine – has made its way around the world to produce this wonderful elixir in record quantities with quality and consistency at an alltime high. Of course, there’s been plenty of time to practice, as wine is as old as the ages. In the late 1800s, French chemist Louis Pasteur made his great contribution to history by discovering that the reaction between bacteria and yeast could be controlled in the wine-making process and thus fundamentally improved the quality, consistency, and stability of wine from that day forward. Since then, the scientific community has become an essential and fruitful partner in improving our wine-making ways, while gifted vintners continue to advance this fine art.

WINEMAKING 1-2-3

Once grapes are grown and harvested, three basic steps turn them into wine: 1. Crush: Releasing the grape juice • The Crush, as the name suggests, turns whole berries into juice with a strategic squash 2. Fermentation: Converting the juice into alcohol • Fermentation converts sugar into alcohol and grape juice into wine. 3. Maturation: Stabilizing and aging the new wine • Maturation is the period in which a wine-maker prepares the new wine for final consumption. Of course, within each step is a world of complication and finesse, which is why most of us leave it to the experts. The 2019 harvest is in full swing which makes it a fun time to stop by your favorite winery for a visit. Monica Chappell is a wine writer and educator, and can be reached at wineappreciation101@gmail.com.

JLOEB continued from front page

“I was introduced to JLOEB by a friend and mentor,” says Young. “I enjoy a sense of belonging to the community and the ability to feel like part of the solution. I’ve met wonderful, can-do women who love giving back; I’ve been mentored by delightful and brilliant sustaining members and had opportunities that expand my sphere of influence and skill set.” JLOEB’s focus area is to serve East Bay women and children who need help. Members (ages 21 – 80) become trained volunteers who are committed to promoting voluntarism, developing the potential of women, and improving East Bay communities. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable, though members do enjoy a number of optional social activities such as attending comedy shows and live events, and participating in book swaps, wine tastings, and yoga classes. The league’s geographical territory includes Alameda and Contra Costa Counties. The current membership count is 80 active members and more than 250 sustainer’s – those who have served their six-year commitment yet continue to participate financially and as mentors for active members. New members participate for a year prior to full-fledged membership – allowing time to learn about the league and the community. JLOEB offers its members training and experience through leadership opportunities and classes. Working by committee in a council system, the league is comprised of committee chairs, council directors who sit on the management team under the executive vice president, and a board of directors, led by the president. The management team handles day-to-day operations while the board members focus on JLOEB’s strategic direction. “Basically, we do three things for our community,” says Young. “First, we work with non-profit agencies that support our focus area (women and children who need help) by providing volunteers for short term (approximately three hours) opportunities to accomplish specific goals. Second, we offer grants. We use a dedicated endowment fund to support community non-profits that do especially good work in our focus area. And third, JLOEB works with the 16 other Junior Leagues in the state of California to advocate

See JLOEB continued on page 21

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LIFE IN THE ALAMO/ DANVILLE GARDEN

TRADITIONAL INSPIRATION By John Montgomery, Landscape Architect, ASLA

“Traditional” is one word that can mean a lot of different things. Garden design, after all, has been practiced worldwide in a great variety of styles for millennia! So to clarify, the style we refer to as “Traditional” has its roots in the 1800’s on the East Coast of the United States, where old European influence met with the early Arts-and-Crafts movement to produce exquisite garden design for private homes and public parks. Today, we incorporate the lasting trademarks of this style into homes and landscapes across the country. There’s a lot to love about this classic look! Traditional wood garden structures are a trademark element of this style. From arbors to balustrades, gazebos to porch swings, Traditional carpentry is all about the craftsmanship. Incorporating wrought-iron-style details and oldworld lighting can turn something as simple as a garden gate into a timeless statement. Matching trim or carpentry details on the house make a structure feel fully integrated, an extension of the home into the surrounding landscape. Stylistic elements have also worked their way into covered patio architecture and outdoor living rooms, blending classical with modern in beautiful new ways. As far as Traditional paving goes, brick is a timeless favorite with infinite applications in the landscape. Paths and patios in herringbone, basket-weave, or running bond patterns, with walls and pillars to complement or support wooden structures, are perfectly suited to this style. Reclaimed brick already has the feeling and look of age, and is a unique way to give the Traditional landscape a more authentic feel. Bluestone paving is another stunning option, and we find that its versatility is most useful for bridging the Traditional/Modern divide. Last but not least, Traditional influence on the garden is also seen in planting schemes. Here we see European influence in hedges and structural plantings, a focus on long-celebrated flowers such as roses, and symmetrical planting design that hearkens back to another era. Occasionally, the Traditional garden is more park-like, with lush plantings contrasting the architecture. One major difference between past and present is that folks today who love the Traditional look often don’t have live-in gardeners. Today’s planting designers have a few tricks up their sleeves to make something look like a hedge without requiring constant shearing, or to create the feeling of a Traditional rose garden but with much hardier varieties of roses. Strangely, we see a lot of overlap between the clean lines of Modern planting and the polished look of the Traditional garden – styles really do come back around! “Tradition is not the worship of ashes, but the preservation of fire.” ~ Gustav Mahler J. Montgomery Designs will be taking a break from writing and will return again in January. We want to thank all of our readers and wish you a wonderful autumn and holiday season! We are scheduling now for our 2020 design season. Contact us anytime at jmontgomerydesigns.com. Advertorial

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October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 19

SAVING FOR A GOAL

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

Wealth is the ability to fully experience life. ~ Henry David Thoreau What am I saving for? Every person has different life experiences that formulate how they save, spend, and plan to leave money behind. Once you have saved money, there are hundreds of ways to spend it. Spending your savings is not the difficult part; it is determining how and why you will spend your money. The film Brewster’s Millions showed us that it is the “why” that people struggle to define. The “why” of your life might also be a troubling question to answer. Some find solace in the fact that they can leave a legacy. Understanding the accumulation, distribution, and ultimate transference of money is what this article will focus on answering. Save it. Saving your money is a novel idea, but many people struggle to save effectively. Setting aside some of your earnings seems like a relatively easy task, but some people need help identifying what/why they are saving. Start by setting a goal for all of the things you are saving for. Visualizing your money going into buckets usually helps people have a better understanding of their savings, and working to fill up specific buckets helps to know you are on track. These buckets are different for everyone and are yours to define. An example of a bucket might be to purchase a Lamborghini. Some people might think it is a crazy bucket to have, but that is the interesting part of money; everyone has different priorities! Of course, not everyone wants a Lamborghini, but everyone has their Lamborghini. Your buckets could be a big house, vast real estate holdings, or payment for your children’s education. When money comes in lump sums -- be it an inheritance or the sale of a business, it is even more difficult to prioritize. When these types of cash windfalls occur, it is generally best to make sure to fill up all the buckets as appropriate. Spend it. Remind yourself as you go what it is that you are saving for. The success of your savings is almost always defined by the way that you spend. Use your defined buckets as a guide for how you will spend. Understanding the “why” of how you are spending (or saving) is important to help you stay on track. First, define the standard of living that you want to have. Then, arrange your finances to determine if this is feasible. Some people do not make their standard of living a priority and focus on buying “stuff.” Will Roger’s said it best: “Too many people spend money they earned to buy things they don’t want, to impress people that they don’t like.” This is a bit harsh, but is a reality for many people. Life is busy, and it is hard to sit down and think through every decision. Your decisions should be thoughtful and based on a long-term vision of your money. Therefore you don’t get to the end of your life and regret the things that you didn’t have a chance to do. Pass it on. Planning for the end of your retirement and the transference of wealth is a unique part of financial planning. You no longer have a need for your existing lifestyle buckets to plan around. The pass-it-on bucket should be defined early on, if possible. Defining the bucket for inheritance or charitable giving early allows for the objective to have certain terms in relation to your lifestyle buckets. If it is your intention to give or bequest money then isolating the end goal can help define all other goals. Planning your savings goal is an important exercise to determine not only how you spend money but also why you spend money. Life brings changes, so it is important to constantly reassess the buckets you have created to ensure that they are still aligned with your short and long-term goals. An objectives-based planning process can help you organize your goals into buckets that will help define what is important to you. To schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation, please contact me at 925-786-7686 or email peter.waldron@lfg.com. Peter T. Waldron: California Insurance License #0E47827. Peter T. Waldron is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offers investment advisory service through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Spectrum Wealth Partners is not an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors. 3201 Danville Blvd, Suite 190, Alamo, CA 94507. Insurance offered through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc. and other fine companies. This information should not be construed as legal or tax advice. You may want to consult a tax advisor regarding this information as it relates to your personal circumstance. The content of this material was provided to you by Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp. for its representatives and their clients. CRN-2739570-092019 Advertorial

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Wheelchair continued from page 12

Charli Butterfield, Behring Global Educational Foundation Director, met Behring when he owned the Seattle Seahawks. She piloted his humanitarian aid missions to Africa and traveled to at least 130 countries with him. In 2001, the Wheelchair Foundation teamed with Rotary International. Other sources of in-country support and distribution lists come from local government officials and charities. Recipients crawl miles to distribution sites, come carried on the backs of relatives and sometimes strangers, or arrive in wheelbarrows. House visits are made to the remotest locations. Don Routh has traveled to many places beyond From the Heart’s focus on Latin America. Together, he and Josh raise annual funding for many additional containers of wheelchairs. Don recalls one man, who was not on the distribution list crawling to the Uganda site and sitting quietly looking at him. When all the wheelchairs were gone, he crawled away. Routh worked diligently to discover the man’s identity and ensure that the following year he went home on wheels. Charli recounts numerous similar experiences. Each container holds 280 wheelchairs. BGEF, encompassing Behring non-profits including the Wheelchair Foundation since 2010, holds the cost at $150 per wheelchair. Rarely, wheelchairs not designated for recipients are available at a distribution. Butterfield’s latest African distribution was filled with both joy and sorrow. She writes, “I got a text message at 4:15AM in Rwanda on the morning of June 28th. We were scheduled to deliver wheelchairs that day with the Ministry of Health in the Nyanza district of Rwanda. Mr. Behring had passed away around 7:15PM on June 25th, California time. David Charli Butterfield with happy wheelchair recipient in Behring [Ken’s son and WheelTanzania. Photo courtesy of Wheelchair Foundation. chair Foundation President] said, “Go … give out the wheelchairs and simply ask each person for a thumbs up and a smile. That is all Ken Behring ever wanted from a recipient and their family.” Charli realized that going forward was the best way to honor Ken. “The distribution was breathtaking. It was set at a school of about 800 children, a good portion of them disabled and many of them needed wheelchairs, but ALL of them were there to greet us. Every three-year-old there gave me a hug. Ken was still working his magic, to each person that received a wheelchair that day and to each person whose life he has touched.” To donate; providing dignity, mobility, and opportunity to a wheelchair recipient; and/or read more, visit www.bgefoundation.org and click on Wheelchair Foundation. For information on the school program From the Heart, contact bbosse@ wheelchairfoundation.org.

PAGE 20 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

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PROBATE – THE REAL SCOOP

By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.

ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)

By Roger Smith, President ALAMO FARMER'S MARKET - GUESS THE WEIGHT OF OUR GREAT PUMPKIN!

To celebrate the fall season, the Alamo Farmer’s Market will be hosting a Harvest Festival during October. Please join us in experiencing live music and family-oriented activities. For October, don’t forget to pick up your fresh fish every Sunday from Heather, the strawberry lady. She now is providing salmon, halibut, and black cod from Half Moon Bay! There is no need to cook on Sunday; come get your delicious Oaxacan tamales for a tasty meal! The Market is open 9AM – 2PM every Sunday in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd.. Make us a part of your Sunday, every Sunday.

AUTOS OF ALAMO, THANK YOU!

The seventh annual AIA “Autos of Alamo” car show was a great success! We extend a big “Thank You” to Committee Members Jim Farrell, Jim Wadsworth, Tim Fiebig, Valerie Schooley, Sandy Fink, Alicia Watson, Lou Plummer, and all of our AIA Board, as well as great volunteers and car owners that presented their prized autos. We appreciate all who stopped by to enjoy a great family activity and live music.

EARTHQUAKE SAFETY ~ GET READY

The Great California “Shake-out,” an annual earthquake preparedness drill, will occur at 10:17AM on October 17th. What we do now will determine our quality of life after our next big earthquake. Are you prepared to survive and recover quickly? Below are some things you can do to prepare. Protect yourself – Spread the word. Official rescue teams who have been dispatched to the scene of earthquakes and other disasters around the world continue to advocate use of the internationally recognized “Drop, Cover, and Hold On,” protocol to protect lives during earthquakes. DROP where you are, onto your hands and knees. This position protects you from being knocked down and also allows you to stay low and crawl to shelter if nearby. COVER your head and neck with one arm and hand. • If a sturdy table or desk is nearby, crawl underneath it for shelter • If no shelter is nearby, crawl next to an interior wall (away from windows) • Stay on your knees, and bend over to protect vital organs HOLD ON until shaking stops • Under shelter: hold on to it with one hand, and be ready to move with your shelter if it shifts • No shelter: hold on to your head and neck with both arms and hands. The main point is to not try to move but to immediately protect yourself as best as possible where you are. Earthquakes occur without any warning and may be so violent that you cannot run or crawl. You therefore will most likely be knocked to the ground where you happen to be. You will never know if the initial jolt will turn out to be the start of the big one. You should Drop, Cover, and Hold On immediately!

CONTRA COSTA EMERGENCY RESPONSE

Community Warning System (CWS) - The CWS is able to send notifications to residents and businesses within Contra Costa County impacted by, or in danger of being impacted by, an emergency or disaster. The system is used to notify homes and businesses at risk with information about the event and actions they are advised to take. The system uses the countywide 9-1-1 data base, provided by a local telephone company, and is thus able to contact landline phones whether listed or unlisted. It is TTY/TTD capable. Get Alerts on your Cell Phone - The CWS message will include basic information about the incident and what specific protective actions are necessary to protect life and health. Sign up at alerts5.athoc.com/SelfService/2291997/Register. For more information about these alerting devices and how to receive alerts directly, visit cwsalerts.com and www.co.contra-costa.ca.us/2269/Emergency-Information.

AIA MEMBERSHIP

Now in its 64th year, AIA, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, has an outstanding history of serving our community and helping shape it into the place we love to live. Visit www. AlamoCA.org to learn more. Now is the time to renew or become a new member of AIA.

I have had the opportunity to help clients in hundreds of Probates in counties throughout California. Thus, it may seem ironic that I constantly educate my clients, colleagues, and the public about the benefits of avoiding Probate. While it’s generally best to avoid Probate, the plain fact is that sometimes it becomes necessary. Below, I’ll outline the benefits of avoiding Probate and how one can do so. Then, I’ll describe when a Probate administration is required and why, in these situations, it’s critical to hire an experienced Probate attorney. Why avoid Probate? Probate is a public, court-supervised estate administration proceeding that generally takes 8-12 months, or longer, to complete. Between court filing fees, routine costs, and attorneys’ fees, it tends to be an expensive proposition. Further, statutory fees awarded to the attorney handling the Probate and the Personal Representative appointed by the court (the “Executor” in the decedent’s Will, or, if there’s no Will, the “Administrator”) are formula-based, such that they are higher for larger estates. How to avoid Probat - Many people mistakenly believe that if they have a Will, their assets will not be subject to Probate. Others believe the common myth that if you are not exceptionally wealthy, you don’t need a Revocable Living Trust. Reality: Generally, the best way to avoid Probate is to: a) establish a Revocable Living Trust, b) transfer substantially all of your assets into that Trust, and c) properly designate beneficiaries for all retirement accounts and life insurance. Fortunately, it’s relatively easy and inexpensive to do this planning. Unfortunately, many people nevertheless fail to do so; the result, upon their death, is that their loved ones must initiate a Probate. When is a Probate Required? Residents of California who die with or without a Will (but who have no Living Trust), whose assets are valued at more than $150,000 (other than certain kinds of assets, such as joint or P.O.D. accounts, joint tenancy assets, and insurance and retirement accounts with named, then-living beneficiaries) are subject to Probate. An exception applies when assets owned upon death total (aggregate) less than $150,000. In this event, an expedited “small estate affidavit” procedure may be available. Since many people die owning (not in a Living Trust) more than $150,000 of assets and/or they neglect to submit beneficiary forms to designate primary and alternate beneficiaries for their IRAs, 401Ks, or life insurance, many families need to be involved in Probate administration. Why is it so important to hire an experienced Probate attorney? Like many court proceedings, a Probate typically involves significant bureaucracy – preparation and filing of documents, compliance with technical rules, and fulfillment by the Personal Representative of many legal duties owed to the estate’s beneficiaries and creditors. Having helped many clients complete Probates, it is evident that, regardless of how simple a prospective Probate appears to be, issues and problems frequently arise. These issues present themselves in one or more realms: preparing and filing the initial court Petition; appearing at mandatory hearings; communicating with beneficiaries; noticing, negotiating and/or paying creditor claims; selling real estate during Probate; providing notice to required government agencies; valuing assets and filing a required Inventory and Appraisal; coordinating income tax filings and tax payments; preparing and filing the final Petition; and assisting with distribution of assets per the final court Order. Highly experienced Probate attorneys tend to navigate these issues well. We are proud to lend our expertise to our Personal Representative clients for the benefit of the estate beneficiaries they serve. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you need help opening a Probate or if you have any Probate-related questions. Estate Planning |Trust Administration & Probate | Real Estate | Business Please contact me to request a complimentary: i) “Estate Planning Primer”; ii) Real Estate titling brochure; iii) introductory meeting. I am an attorney with R. Silverman Law Group, 1855 Olympic Blvd., Suite 125, Walnut Creek, CA 94596; (925) 705-4474; rsilverman@rsilvermanlaw.com. This article is intended to provide information of a general nature, and should not be relied upon as legal, tax and/ or business advice. Readers should obtain specific advice from their own, qualified professional advisors. Advertorial

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October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 21

TECHNOLOGY MATTERS

EMAIL WOES By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.

Since becoming mainstream in the 1990’s, email has been fuel in the gas tank of our growing economy. Most everyone has at least one email account, and for many people it is their primary method of communication with clients, vendors, coworkers, friends, and family. In fact, email is so convenient and ubiquitous that many people prefer using email over making telephone calls, which introduces a whole slew of other communication issues and is a topic for another article. As email has become more important to our society, it’s also come under attack by people who wish to use it in illegal and annoying ways. The words “SPAM,” “PHISH,” and “SPOOF” are now recognized as descriptions of problems we need to cope with. And there are smart people who give a lot of thought about how to deal with these problems. There is no central authority who can actually enforce how every computer and computer in the world processes email. Instead, various international organizations have been tasked with setting standards, and the internet today is managed in this manner. It’s all voluntary, and we all follow the standards these organizations set because they make everything work right. For example, the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) is responsible for analyzing the state of our technology and, among other things, proposing new email management guidelines. System administrators across the world are aware of and closely follow the suggestions made by this body. When the IETF publish one of their standard requests for comment documents (RFCs), it is implicit that this new guideline will have been well-vetted. As a result, everyone is conforming to the suggestions this governing body makes. In response to the increasing levels of SPAM and “spoofed” email, the IETF made suggestions to change how servers identify the email they are sending. The idea behind the new standard is that if the email you send is tagged with special additional information, it will make it far harder (if not impossible) for someone to impersonate sending email as you. Most people have experienced the annoyance of spoofed emails. Spoofed emails are when we receive an illegitimate email that is supposedly from someone we know (but it’s not from them) or learn about an email that was sent to a group of people from (apparently) your email account that you never sent. It’s currently possible for technically malicious people to manipulate an email system to allow this practice, and the recent RFC would put an end to it by changing the way we all identify our outgoing email. When everyone eventually conforms to the new standard, the bad guys are the odd man out, and JLOEB continued from page 18 they won’t be able to play these specific games. for legislation that supports our projects and communities in the areas of education, All of this can be quite confusing. The important thing to note is that family support, health, prevention of human trafficking, and violence prevention. some people have begun to implement these new standards to prevent email “We have numerous partnerships that are ongoing throughout the year. spoofing, and, many others have not yet started. If your back-end system is Some of the organizations we help are the Food Bank of Contra Costa up-to-date and someone sending email to you is not up-to-date, their email County, Alameda County Community Food Bank, April Showers, and may end up in your Junk folder. They will need to have their system admin- Oakland Family Support Services. We work with them primarily on a istrator update their system with the new standards. Then, their email should short-term/event basis. However, we are always looking for new partners flow properly. Google and Microsoft are among those leading the charge on who work with impoverished or underprivileged women and children.” helping people adjust to the new standard. JLOEB’s annual fund-raiser is its ‘Fabulous Finds Rummage Sale,’ held each What about sending bulk email for your business or an organization to which spring. This year is also JLEOB’s 85th anniversary, an occasion to be honored you belong? When you have a large group of people to email, the challenge is with a ticketed soirée open to the public. Information on both events can be that you do not want to appear to the recipients as a SPAMmer. If you do, your found in the coming months at www.jloeb.org. For details on membership, messages won’t reach their destinations. For best results, our recommendation is email newmember@jloeb.org. to use an email service such as Constant Contact (www.constantcontact.com), Mail Chimp (www.mailchimp.com), or one of many others. If you are interested, search for the term “bulk email service.” Most bulk email services will help you with the process of creating your email, importing and maintaining an address database, and of course sending the emails themselves. In addition to helping you maintain the message and your address lists, for-hire bulk email services are usually quite scrupulous about following all tenets of the CAN-SPAM act, including “opt-out” links, full identification of you as the sender, etc. For instance, if someone opts-out of future email, their name will be automatically marked as such in the database by the system, and future emails you produce will not be sent to them. These services have also configured their systems to observe all of the latest technology updates and guidelines set by the governing bodies mentioned above. It is in their enlightened self-interest to ensure they are 100% compliant and that their emails always reach the intended destination. If you have email problems or a bulk emailing project, and are not sure of the best way to proceed, let us help you identify the best avenue to accomplish your A Gathering of JLOEB Former Presidents (and Current President AnnAlia Young, fourth goals. You can reach us at info@pcioit.com or 925-552-7953. Advertorial on left) at the Annual Past President's Luncheon.

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PAGE 22 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

DO YOU HAVE AN INCREASED RISK OF BREAST CANCER?

By Michelle Frankland, NP

IS PRP FOR HAIR LOSS (AND MORE) FOR YOU?

By Dr. Jerome Potozkin

One of the exciting things about being a dermaMy mom was 42 years old when she was diagnosed tologist is that there are always new treatments and with breast cancer, her sister (my aunt) was 42 years technologies that become available. A challenge with old when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, and newer treatments is being able to vet them for our their brother (my uncle) was in his 50’s when he was patients to make sure they are worthwhile and actually diagnosed with prostate cancer. I am 42. do what they are supposed to do. Platelet Rich Plasma Working as an Oncology Nurse Practitioner with (PRP) has been used in many fields in medicine and Diablo Valley Oncology for 15 years, I casually knew that I had more than average risk of breast cancer. My concerns were pushed the most recent information suggests that it can be very helpful to treat hair loss as well as skin aging. We waited to offer this to our patients until there further into the back of my mind once my Mom’s genetic testing came back was enough evidence showing it was worthwhile. negative for the BRCA 1&2 mutation. Having said that, the combination of We commonly think of hair loss in men. However, in my practice hair turning 42 and helping to run our Multidisciplinary Breast Cancer Clinic loss is reported more commonly in women than in men. Some studies have prompted me to seek further screening. shown that up to 30% of women will suffer from hair loss. Most of the time I requested a screening breast MRI and anxiously awaited the results. The MRI showed that I have two suspicious areas requiring biopsy, which they there is a genetic component for both men and women. When women suffer hair loss, it usually presents as diffuse thinning of the hair. proceeded to obtain. I received a phone call with my results: “You don’t have The treatment of genetic hair loss for both men and women typically is cancer, but you do have a high-risk lesion, so surgery is recommended.” I not covered by insurance. Topical minoxidil, which had been a prescription was not prepared for that; I was prepared for cancer or no cancer! drug, is now available in most pharmacies with no prescription required. It Approximately 10% of breast cancers are hereditary, 65% are considered sporadic, and the other 25% are familial, which is the category I most likely is a topically applied liquid or foam. For men, finasteride pills are another option. These treatments are usually great first steps. However, these aren’t fall into, assuming genetic testing does not show a BRCA mutation or any of the other genes known to be associated with breast cancer (like PTEN, the only treatments. In addition to surgery, there are non-surgical options. PALB2, CHEK2, and others). One quarter of all breast cancers have some PRP is an option that works for most people. A tube of blood is drawn and spun at high speeds in a centrifuge. This separates the PRP from other comsort of familial link, and this is the group that really needs to understand ponents. We don’t know the exact mechanism of action, but PRP contains a their risk. The first step in understanding risk is talking to your family. Find out if number of different growth factors that stimulate hair growth and may also parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles, etc., have had cancer and if so, what have rejuvenative properties. If you’re suffering from hair loss and want to kind. Next, talk to your health care provider who orders and reviews your do everything possible to help, PRP is a great option. Some of our patients mammograms. Ask if you have dense breast tissue and if there are any also use low level light or laser stimulation. Since PRP is coming from your areas the radiologists are monitoring. Third, initiate a conversation about body, it is all natural and allergy free. This treatment option has become very cancer risk with your gynecologist or primary care provider. Ultimately, the popular, and if you value your hair, it is likely worth investing in. Another area in which PRP is being utilized is for facial rejuvenation. We best and most comprehensive way to understand risk is to talk to a genetic have been combining micro-needling along with the application of PRP to counselor, and then, if recommended, undergo genetic testing. the skin to rejuvenate it. This procedure has minimal downtime. The PRP Of all the appointments and procedures I’ve gone through over the last accelerates the healing process and can give better results than PRP alone. month, I dreaded the meeting with the genetic counselor the most. Being the mother of two young children, I always hope that I have passed on the best You might have heard of this procedure being referred to as the “blood facial.” This is another option in addition to the laser and light-based treatments that of me to them, not a genetic mutation that increases cancer risk. Having said that, I am so thankful to have met with the genetic counselor. She brought we offer. Some have used PRP injected into the skin. At this point, I believe there are better injectables available, but it is something we are evaluating. me back to my logical/practical self, the one that now understands that my If you’re suffering from hair loss and wish to do everything possible to help genetic test may very well show a mutation, most likely not BRCA since keep and regrow hair beyond what your insurance will cover, call us today. my Mom tested negative, but a mutation that falls into a category of VUS, Dr. Jerome Potozkin is a Board Certified Dermatologist specializing in min“variants of unknown significance.” If you have a VUS, the genetic testing imally and non-invasive cosmetic procedures. We are accepting new patients labs and geneticists will follow the mutation as scientists seek to understand and can be reached at (925) 838-4900 and at www.MyBeautyMd.com. Advertorial if it does in fact increase cancer risk - 98% of VUS are ultimately found to be benign. Therefore, instead of worrying or being disappointed that I may have passed on a genetic mutation to my kids, I can focus on the fact that understanding my risk will aid in seeking appropriate and necessary screening and surveillance for my kids. October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month. This month, make it a goal to learn more about your family history and tell your friends to do the same. If you have had breast cancer and not had genetic testing, talk to your providers to understand if you would benefit from it. If you have not had breast cancer, talk to your provider to see if you should be referred for a genetic risk evaluation. I feel fortunate that I knew to ask for additional screening and to have that conversation with my healthcare provider. In each step of this process, my emotions have fluctuated from fear and anxiety to gratitude. In my years of oncology work, I have seen so many cancer patients find a ‘silver lining’ in their journey. My silver lining is “now I really get it.” When patients talk to me about the stress of scheduling the never-ending list of necessary appointments, the anxiety and fear of waiting for test results, or the utter discomfort of a breast MRI, my empathy is real and sincere. Soon, I will also know the emotions that come with surgery, the post-operative pain and recovery, and the impact a big surgery has on me, my family, my friends, and my career. While I had several options, I have decided to have a double mastectomy with reconstruction. This is a decision made with confidence and certainty after truly coming to understand my risk. Michelle Frankland is an Oncology Certified Nurse Practitioner with Diablo Valley Oncology & Hematology Medical Group. She is also the Nurse Navigator for the Women’s Cancer Center of the East Bay, both located in Pleasant Hill. Michelle can be reached by calling 925-825-8878. Advertorial

MANY FACES OF BRAIN CANCER PRESENTATION

On October 29th from 6:30-9:30pm, join an engaging panel of medical experts at “The Many Faces of Brain Cancer” presentation as they explore key advances in neuro-oncology. The panel will offer insight into latest treatments including magnetic resonance thermography, laser tumor ablation, brain mapping, immunotherapy, tradition radiotherapy, and stereotractic radiosurgery. Speakers include Maxwell Merkow, MD, James Rembert, MD, and Gigi Chen, MD. The event will take place at the Cancer Support Community, located at 3276 McNutt Ave in Walnut Creek. To attend, please RSVP to sjung@dvohmg.com or 925-677-5041 x272.

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October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 23

Advertise in your hometown paper. Keep local news alive! Contact us at 925.405.6397 Editor@YourMonthlyPaper.com

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PAGE 24 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

THE EYE OPENER

THE MYOPIA EPIDEMIC By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry

For all parents and kids who are near-sighted, let me see if this sounds familiar. At every annual exam, your distance vision is declining, and it is probably time to update your glasses and/or contacts. This has been a consistent theme for these patients, and it is only getting worse. The good thing is we finally have some options to help manage this epidemic. Myopia (near-sightedness) is now being classified more as a disease than a refractive condition of the eyes. Once a person becomes moderately to highly near-sighted, their risk for conditions such as retinal detachments, macular degeneration, and glaucoma grow exponentially compared to patients who are not. Obviously, there are other contributors to these conditions such as genetics and medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. However, there is an absolute correlation with being myopic. What causes myopia? There are two main contributors: genetics and environment. If at least one parent is very near-sighted, there is a good chance the child will be also. If both parents are myopic, it is very likely the child will be. However, it appears that environment is playing a more significant role. We have become a very near-point society due to the advent of computers, laptops, smartphones, iPads, etc. This is how we conduct business, school, and personal time. Regardless of how we feel regarding the technology, it is here to stay, and it is not going to change anytime soon. The percentage of myopic people in the United States has more than doubled in the past 30 years. Countries in Asia have over 80% of their population near-sighted, and going by current trends, half of the world’s population will be near-sighted by 2050. However, for comparison, these numbers are dramatically different in sub-Saharan Africa. These countries do not have the technology, school requirements, and long-term

MENOPAUSE MATTERS

PERIMENOPAUSE By Timothy Leach, MD, FACOG, CNMP

Menopause is defined as starting 12 months after a woman’s last menstrual period. This column will talk about the time that precedes menopause which is called the peri-menopausal transition. Perimenopause is hard to define. Unlike when you get your first period, there’s no obvious marker that you have started, and the symptoms vary widely between women. The average age at which 50% of women have gone 12 months without a menstrual cycle is 51 years old. The peri-menopausal transition can last between 5-7 years which means that some women will enter this window in their early 40’s. What are some of the signs for recognizing you are in this transition, and how can you manage these changes? 1. Be prepared for unpredictable periods. It may seem like you are becoming a teenager again with periods that alternate between very heavy or lighter. They may arrive closer or become farther apart. The ovaries don’t work like a light switch with predictable reliability. Rather, you should consider their activity like a light that is flickering before the bulb finally won’t turn on. Bleeding can be all over the map, but there are excellent medical and procedural interventions to keep your period from interfering with the activities of daily living. 2. Treat hot flashes and night sweats. These awful “power surges” feel similar to when you see a light bulb get dim and then brighten again based on the power coming to the outlet. Most women associate hot flashes with menopause (80%), but a significant proportion of women (45%) get them while undergoing this peri-menopausal transition. Some months when there is more reliable ovarian estrogen made, hot flashes may diminish only to return with a vengeance as the ovary works less over time. You don’t have to be menopausal to get relief from options that range from nutraceuticals, non-hormonal and hormonal replacement therapies. Hot flashes last on average for most women for 7-9 years, so patience may not be your best treatment. Birth control pills can both stop the hot flashes, regulate your period, and provide you with contraception when you may still be able to get pregnant. 3. Deal with genito-urinary dryness. Women are often reluctant to talk with their doctors about dryness. Unlike the hot flashes that eventually go away in the majority of women with time, dryness becomes the new normal and does not abate with time. It gets worse with time. There are excellent moisturizers (Halo Gyn 3x weekly) that can help with daily comfort, and lubricants can be

computer use that industrialized countries do; their rates for myopia are around 5%. Thankfully, there are things we can do to help. The two main strategies involve specialized contact lenses, corneal refractive therapy (CRT) lenses, and NaturalVue soft lenses. CRT lenses by Paragon Vision Sciences are gas permeable lenses that are worn overnight to correct vision so that no glasses or contacts are needed during the day. After only a few days to one week, the child should not need to wear any glasses or contacts during the day. In addition, the effects are reversible. If the lenses are not worn, the eyes return to their original prescription. These contact lens molds redistribute the fluid within the cornea; no tissue is moved, altered, or affected in any way. The NaturalVue lenses by Visioneering Technologies are daily disposable lenses that are worn during the day like typical multifocal lenses but have a depth of focus design which both corrects vision and slows down the progression of myopia. The goal of therapy with either modality is to reduce the progression by 50%. At this point, there is no cure for this epidemic, but these are the best tools we have at this point to help combat it. My feeling is that the days of just changing the glasses or contact lens prescriptions in children who are moderately or aggressively changing is not the proper mode of treatment. To help reduce the risk of further eye issues down the line, it is paramount to find these children while they are progressing so something can be done. Contact lenses are not for everyone and some patients are not good candidates due to prescription. There also needs to be buy-in from both the patient and parent. However, these patients will potentially benefit by maintaining good eye health as they get older. This is only a small synopsis of this condition and treatment options. Please feel free to contact the office with any further questions, and any treatment possibilities can be discussed at your exam. Dr. K. at Alamo Optometry is your hometown eye doctor for outstanding service, vision care, and designer eyewear. He can be reached at 925-820-6622, or visit his office at 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 165 in Alamo. Visit our newly updated website at www.alamooptometry.com, and "Like" us on our Alamo Optometry Facebook page. Advertorial helpful with intimate comfort. If moisturizers and lubricants have not alleviated your symptoms after 12 weeks, then low-dose hormones (2x weekly creams or pills) or factional CO2 laser (MonaLisa Touch) can restore the pelvic floor mucosa to its premenopausal health. 4. Practice good sleep hygiene. Night sweats are one of the main reasons for sleep disruption during perimenopause, but sleep problems also increase around this time even without overheating. Expect that you may have more trouble falling and staying asleep, which means you have to work hard to maintain good sleep hygiene. Consider dressing lighter for bed and trying wicking or cooling sheets. There is a cooling sheet (Bed Jet) that can fit your side of the bed but not your partners. Develop good sleep routines with consistent sleep and wake times, stay away from screens before bed, and curtail both alcohol and caffeine intake. 5. Make dietary changes. The most common complaint I hear is that “I am not doing anything different, so why am I gaining weight for no reason?” (I say that if you have not changed anything, then you will gain weight.) Somebody changed the rules of your body but did not tell you. What has worked in the past won’t work now. During this transition, your metabolic rate slows down, you lose muscle mass, and you burn fewer calories while doing the same activities. Exercise is great for cardiovascular health, but without cutting calories, the weight won’t come off. 6. Don’t forget that though your ovaries are working less, they still work, and you can get pregnant. Progesterone IUD’s can be a great way to manage abnormal bleeding and keep you from getting pregnant with 99% efficacy. Until you have gone for one year without a period, there is always a chance that your last egg will work just as good as your first egg. We are here to assist with both the perimenopausal transition and menopause to help you live your best life. Our office is available for a comprehensive evaluation and review of treatment options. You can find us on the web at www.leachobgyn.com. We are located at 110 Tampico, Suite 210 in Walnut Creek. Please call us at (925)935-6952. Advertorial

TRANSITIONS

NAVIGATING LIFE'S TURNING POINTS TOGETHER

This is not your typical Bible Study! The Transitions group is comprised of women moving through real transitions in life. The groups’ mission is to encourage and support women from all walks of life -- newlywed, to having aging parents, and everything in between. Come join for the year, a study session, or even just a class. The group meets Fridays from 9AM-11:30AM at Community Presbyterian Church located at 222 West El Pintado Road in Danville. There’s always a welcoming seat. Contact Liz at elizabeth1728@yahoo.com or Diane at dianewood70@gmail.com for more information.

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October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 25

HEALING YOUR SHOULDER/ROTATOR CUFF PAIN By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC, Align Healing Center

The rotator cuff muscles (four muscles in total) are the primary support structures for the shoulder. Therefore, even minor dysfunction associated with these muscles can create pain and decreased performance of everyday tasks. A rotator cuff injury can be caused by many everyday activities. These activities include traumatic events (such as a fall on an outstretched arm or “yanking” of the arm), repetitive motion (lie throwing a ball or carrying children), and chronic improper posture (such as operating a computer and driving). There are three major types of rotator cuff injuries that we treat successfully: 1. Rotator Cuff Muscle Tears: This is a partial tear of one or more of the four rotator cuff muscles. Rotator cuff muscle tears are often accompanied by deep achy pain in the shoulder and arm weakness. 2. Tendonitis: Tendons are at the ends of each muscle and attach the muscles to the bones they move. When there is inflammation of these tendons, it is called tendonitis. The symptoms of rotator cuff tendonitis are often trigger-point pain over the tendon accompanied by deep, achy pain in the shoulder and arm weakness. 3. Rotator Cuff Impingement Syndrome: Chronic injury of the rotator cuff can lead to a “pinching” of the nerves passing through the shoulder. This is commonly referred to as a shoulder impingement or rotator cuff impingement. Symptoms often include numbness, tingling, or sharp, shooting pain into the arm or hand.

HOW DO I HEAL MY SHOULDER PAIN?

The most common forms of medical treatment for rotator cuff injuries are anti-inflammatory medications, cortisone injections, and surgery. Although medications and injections may reduce the severity of pain associated with rotator cuff dysfunction, they are not a long-term solution and may do more bodily harm than good in the long run. Surgery is a last resort and should only be used if there is irreparable damage to the shoulder that cannot be handled with proper rehabilitation. First: Heal the Damaged Tissue - Ending the pain caused by a rotator cuff injury requires stopping the cycle of inflammation that is creating the pain. Class IV laser therapy is an excellent method for this, because it is presently the only modality that can both reduce inflammation and heal tissue Medical & Surgical Dermatology simultaneously. During laser therapy, the For Healthy Skin infrared laser light interacts with tissues Offering Treatments for: at the cellular level, increasing metabolic Skin Cancer Moles activity and improving the transport of Precancerous Lesions nutrients across the cell membrane. This INTRODUCING Acne, Eczema, and Rashes Warts, Molluscum creates an optimal healing environment that EMSCULPT D Keloid and Scar Revisions reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle RE ONLY FDA CLEA Psoriasis and Vitiligo spasms, stiffness, and pain. As the injured Cysts and Lipoma ELECTROMAGNETIC ETING Hair and Nail Disorder area returns to normal, pain is relieved TECHNOLOGY TARG Underarm Sweating ABDOMINAL AND and function is restored. If the injury Physician-Strength DY BO R FO S LE SC GLUTEUS MU is chronic and appears to be in a state of Skin Care Products PAD CONTOURING, FAT delayed healing, we couple our treatments Offering Cosmetic Treatments for: T! TT LIF REDUCTION AND BU Tattoo, Moles, Birthmarks, and Scars lpt cu with specialty lab testing to identify the MS DrWilliamTing.com/E Face, Neck, Body Tightening, underlying causes causing the chronic Lifting, and Rejuvenation condition. Using functional lab testing, we Frown Lines and are able to custom create a protocol to suit Jawline Reduction your body’s specific needs and expedite Rosacea, Facial Redness, Veins, and Post-injection Bruising your healing process dramatically. Pigmentation and Melasma Second: Correct the Shoulder and Sun Damage and Scars A place where beauty Postural Mechanics - Long-term pain relief of Body Sculpting Thinning Hair and/or Balding and healthy skin meet shoulder injuries involves rehabilitation of the Hair Removal Visit us at our Center of shoulder, neck, and thoracic spine. Shoulder Technology & Procedures Excellence with a combined rehabilitation is achieved by utilizing specific Offered 12,000 square foot, state Cellfina postural adjustments, exercises, and specific Cool Mini for neck of the art, newly renovated posture stabilizing methods in order to reCoolsculpting® Our Women’s suite. We are dedicated establish proper motion and strength of the Cryoshape Wellness Center to Medical, Cosmetic, and Diolite 532 laser shoulder joint. Ongoing strengthening and now offers EMSella, EMSculpt Surgical Dermatology and stretching exercises are used to rehabilitate FDA approved noninvasive EMSella are a place for medical electromagnetic technology the musculature of the shoulder to ensure Excel V Laser treatment (with clothes on) Excimer Laser skin consultation, aesthetic lasting results. Fractional CO2 Laser for urinary incontinence rejuvenation, and face and If you suffer from chronic pain, it is GenesisPlus Laser and feminine intimate body contouring. Infini Microneedling RF worth your while to spend some time rejuvenation! Models are used. Kybella DrWilliamTing.com/EMSella figuring out which of any number of Liposonix® factors are contributing to your pain. We Microneedling with PRP Visit www.DrWilliamTing.com MiraDry will help you explore which combination for an extensive list of medical, surgical, and cosmetic treatments, Mohs Micrographic Surgery product lines, lasers, and therapies offered. of therapies will help you heal it. The good NBUVB Phototherapy news is you can heal without drugs, and Pico Genesis Schedule your free cosmetic consultation appointment today! PicoSure Laser you can get back to the activities you love! PRP for Hair Loss and Rejuvenation William Ting, M.D., Dr. Niele Maimone, DC is the owner Vbeam Laser Board Certified Dermatologist and Mohs Surgeon and founder of Align Healing Center in Silhouette InstaLift 500 Alfred Noble Drive, #185 Spectra Laser 2262 Camino Ramon Danville, CA. For more information or to Hercules, CA 94547 Superficial Radiotherapy San Ramon, CA 94583 Tel: (510) 669-5700 set up a consult, call 925-362-8283 or visit Tel: (925) 328-0255 Thermage™ Ultherapy™ Email: staff@caldermcare.com www.alignhealingcenter.com. drwilliamting.com Vaser Shape Advertorial *Welcoming new Medicare patients VLase for Feminine Rejuvenation

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PAGE 26 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST

HEALTHY SNACKING CAN PREVENT WEIGHT GAIN By Linda Michaelis RD, MS

In my practice, I teach my clients how important it is to choose the right snacks to keep blood sugar stable, to prevent cravings, and to prevent getting too hungry for the next meal. I see the diet mentality that goes along with feeling pangs of guilt when craving a snack. There is nothing wrong with snacks. In fact, snacks might be the missing ingredient that will help you lose weight. Do you remember the times that you ate a healthy snack before going out to dinner, and you were able to have more control over how much you ate?

HOW YOUR SNACK CAN MAKE OR BREAK YOUR DIET

There is definitely a wrong way and a right way to snack. As I have stressed in past articles, lunch should be a well-balanced meal that will last you at least three hours. The most important next step is to have a well thought out snack that is high in protein and fiber with some sweetness to it. After all, most of us tend to crave sweets as a picker-upper in the late afternoon. The real key is not to eat fruit alone or a candy bar that will set you up for failure. Realize that you will not eat a healthy snack after eating a candy bar. Your blood sugar will drop instantly, and you will feel more tired than you felt before the sweets. Enjoy low-sugar yogurts by Oikos, Siggi’s, or Dannon Fit and Healthy with 2T of low-sugar granola; or have some Ak Mak crackers with tuna, cherry tomatoes, carrots, cucumbers, or pepperoncinis. Try some honey turkey wrapped around a pickle with an apple, a shrimp cocktail, ahi poke, ceviche, hearty bean soup, oatmeal with yummy toppings, or celery or apple with 2T of peanut or almond butter.

MINI MEALS FOR KIDS

With school is back in session, I recommend that parents have mini-meals available for their kids when they come home. Typically, children have not eaten an adequate lunch, and this can be their hungriest time of the day. Instead of mindless snacking that can lead to weight gain, kids need substantial and balanced food available. Popular items are homemade chili; baked potatoes with broccoli and cheese; omelets with meat, veggies, and shredded cheese; chicken leftovers with hearty bean soup; and veggies. This is not the time for toast and butter, popcorn, goldfish crackers, or chips. If your child enjoys these munchies, they must take a reasonable portion size and pair it with some chicken and raw veggies. When family members walk through the door and they are hungry, they will munch on raw veggies with dressing or salsa if it is out on the counter in view. If the veggies are tucked away, they will never be eaten.

SNACKING IS NOT GRAZING

I spend a lot of time talking with my clients about how to snack. It is not mindless eating where you start with only a handful of crackers, only to finish the entire Wheat Thins box. To avoid grazing, take a serving of crackers and put them on a plate, add 2 oz. of tuna or sliced meat, and a mound of veggies. Take a refreshing drink such as iced tea, and sit at a table, preferably outside, and savor each bite. I help my clients plan out their snacks along with their meals. It all must be balanced and make sense. I often hear from clients that they can initially lose weight, but the difficulty is being able to keep it off and then lose more. I call my counseling a “hand-holding” service where I can help keep you motivated, keep your meal plan exciting, navigatge social and restaurant eating, and best of all reach your weight loss goal sooner rather than later when on your own. Nutritional counseling is covered by many health insurance companies such as Aetna, ABMG, Blue Cross, Cigna, and Sutter. Please call me at (925) 855-0150 about your nutrition concerns, email me at Lifeweight1@gmail.com, and visit my website www.LindaRD.com for past articles. Advertorial

CPC PRIME TIME

Community Presbyterian Church (CPC) “Prime Time” is a gathering of senior adults who like fellowship, fun, and making new friends! The group meets in the Multi-Purpose Room of Community Presbyterian Church from 9:30AM – 12:30PM on Tuesdays, September to May. Please join in the fun. Activities often include games (cards, dominoes, and mahjong to name a few), blood pressure screening, water painting, devotions, informative presentations, and various forms of entertainment that also take place. A home-made lunch is provided for $4. Get pampered, get fed, and get loved! For more information, visit www. cpcdanville.org/primetime/.

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925.202.2846 Telecare continued from front page

emergency phone number of a relative or friend who can be contacted if the client is unreachable at the scheduled call time. To become a TeleCare volunteer, one must become a member of the ALDV and attend a training class. Classes are scheduled during spring and fall and entail one four to five-hour meeting, once per month for four months. To become an Assistance League member, contact the organization office to be invited to an informational coffee that introduces new members to the various chapter programs, such as Operation School Bell, Assistance League’s national philanthropic program by which new clothing is provided to school children families experiencing difficulty, or the very popular Assistance League Thrift Shop at Way Side Inn in downtown Lafayette, the League’s primary source of funding. Last year, the thrift shop contributed approximately $500,000 or 65% to the League’s total public support and revenue. There are many reasons to become a TeleCare volunteer. For current TeleCare Chairman Patty Scowley, it was a desire upon retirement to give back to the community. “Assistance League offers many ways to serve the community, and I was looking for a personal connection with people who live near me,” says Scowley. “TeleCare offers opportunities to personally connect with people who live alone and may have lost friends and loved ones over time. Our callers establish friendly, supportive connections with our clients. We also provide a safety net by contacting family or neighbors if a client can’t be reached. We’ve been calling some of our clients for more than 10 years. Our conversations are fun, interesting, and rewarding. Calling our clients is the best part of my day!” “Our organization has been proud to serve the communities of Contra Costa County since 1967,” says Laurie McIntosh, an Assistance League member since 2008, past chairman of TeleCare, and Wayside Inn volunteer. “Mrs. Hancock Banning, co-founder of The National Assistance League, created this organization in 1919 ‘To act as a friend at any and all times to men, women, and children in need of care, guidance, and assistance spiritually, materially, and physically.’ We continue those ideals with TeleCare, a program that addresses the needs of citizens in the area that sometimes have nobody else to talk to at all. And our annual TeleCare holiday party featuring a special meal and entertainment is something everyone looks forward to each year.” To become a member of the Assistance League of Diablo Valley and a TeleCare volunteer, contact the Walnut Creek Chapter House by calling 925-934-0901. To become a TeleCare client, call 925-934-0901 to request a sign-up questionnaire.

editor @ yourmonthlypaper.com

October 2019 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • PAGE 27

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When you need us

We’ll Be There

Wilson & Kratzer Chapel of San Ramon Valley 825 Hartz Way, Danville, CA 94526

925.820.2999

TURNING BACK THE CLOCK ON SUN DAMAGE

By Dr. Barbara Persons, MD, FACS

Despite our best efforts to mind sunscreen, the treasured summer days spent on the beach and under the sun take a toll on our skin. By the time your skin shows pink with sunburn, most of the harm has already been done. Sunburns happen when Ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun damages the DNA in our skin cells. Over time, these injuries add up and can lead to physical changes like wrinkles and skin cancer. While there are plenty of things you can do to ease the pain, there are only a few ways you can counteract the damage before it’s there for good. While most of us want to take on summer’s final victory lap, these last weeks of the season are a good time to pause, evaluate, and make a plan for damage control. Laser therapy is a non-invasive treatment that uses light energy to repair and regenerate skin cells. Laser can even be used to combat precancerous cells such as actinic keratosis which is a rough, scaly patch on your skin that develops from years of exposure to the sun. Advanced laser technology is used to target your unwanted brown spots on damaged skin. The energy delivered through the laser targets brown or sun-damaged spots, allowing them to disappear through the body’s natural healing process, revealing clearer, more beautiful-looking skin. It also heats the deeper layers of the skin to promote collagen production, creating a more even appearance. Laser resurfacing is an effective tool in improving the appearance of aged skin and in post-surgical or acne scars. In aged skin, one treatment will have significant results in rejuvenating the skin. In severely sun-damaged and aged skin, a series of two to four treatments are often recommended. In these cases, the first procedure can offer 20 to 30 percent improvement with the second session initiating a 30 to 40 percent improvement overall. There is generally very little pain after laser resurfacing; however, effects can vary between individuals. Newly resurfaced skin must be protected from the sun for several months, and one should avoid direct sun exposure during this time. This means avoiding spending a lot of time outside in the sun, wearing sunscreen

www.chapelofsanramonvalley.com daily (SPF 30 or greater), as well as wearing sun-protective clothing when you do go outside. As you can imagine, this can be difficult and inconvenient during the spring and summer when you want to spend your weekends lounging around a pool, enjoying the park, and taking advantage of the warm weather. For this reason, the cooler months of fall and winter provide the perfect opportunity for patients to minimize their risk of side effects from laser procedures. Fall in love with laser this autumn, and you can turn back the clock on sun damage! Barbara L Persons, MD, FACS is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon and owns Persons Plastic Surgery, Inc., located at 911 Moraga Rd, Suite 205 in Lafayette. She can be reached at 925283-4012 or drpersons@personsplasticsurgery.com. Advertorial

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Reach over 21,000 homes and businesses in Alamo, Danville, & Diablo - Help Wanted, For Sale, Services, Lessons, Pets, Rentals, Wanted, Freebies...$50 for up to 35 words,$5 for each additional 15 words. Send or email submissions to: 3000F Danville Blvd #117,Alamo,CA 94507 or editor@yourmonthlypaper.com.Payment by check made out to “The Editors,” or credit card placed on file by calling 925-405-6397 must be received before ad will print. Your canceled check is your receipt. We reserve the right to reject any ad.

PAGE 28 • ALAMO TODAY & DANVILLE TODAY NEWS • October 2019

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