2022 OCTOBER ~ Alamo Today & Danville Today News

ART FOR ALL: SUPPORTING CREATIVE EXPRESSION AS AN ESSENTIAL HUMAN NEED

By Jody Morgan

The Mel and Leta Ramos Family Foundation (the Foundation) is dedicated to ensuring access to arts education to all youth, particularly in underserved com munities, as well as supporting teaching artists. Founded in 2017, the non-profit has contributed to over 20 youth arts programs. While focusing on projects in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties where the or ganization is based, the Foundation is partner ing with the Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento in the Virtual

Arts Education Center that promises to extend the reach of availability of arts education to youth, educators, and artists everywhere.

As artists and educators, Mel and Leta Ramos encouraged everyone they encoun tered to find their personal paths to expressing their inner creativity. As a professor at California State University East Bay (CSUEB) from 1966-1997, Mel urged his students, “Follow your bliss.” In Horta de Sant Joan, Spain where they summered, Mel and Leta had an open-door policy, welcoming visitors to their studio. Their daughter, Danville resident Rochelle Leininger, Founder and CEO of the Foundation, recalls: “Leta would invite the local children into her studio and create art projects from recycled objects she collected in her daily activities. Castles were made from paper towel rolls, plastic yogurt cups, and dec orative foil saved from candy wrappers.”

Family Halloween attire was always handmade. Inspired as an artist by the comics he loved as a child, Mel’s most celebrated costume was his Captain Marvel outfit with yellow sprayed painted rubber boots. Leta dressed as Wonder Woman in blue gym shorts rub ber-stamped with white stars. Mel once traded one of his paintings, “A Sinister Figure,” for a comic book. He didn’t care that the painting sold subsequently for a small fortune. He said the joy he got from the comic book was worth more than any amount of money.

Rochelle’s creative genius involves the culinary arts. Following college graduation, she purchased Pacific Pasta in the Danville Livery and later her brother built the San Ramon restaurant. “My father’s

COMEDY FOR CANINES: A FUN-FILLED FUNDRAISER

By Jody Morgan

Early Alert Canines (EAC), celebrating its 10th Anniversary as a non-profit provider of professionally trained Diabetic Alert Dogs free to children and adults with Type 1 Diabetes, invites the community on Saturday, October 22nd, from 5-8:30PM to enjoy “Comedy for Canines” at the Concord Historical Society located at 1928 Clayton Rd. Michael Mancini, known across the country as “The World's Funniest Cop,” headlines the event. Mancini spent 15 years as a touring comedian before adding a career in law enforcement to his resume. Fun ways to win prizes provide ad ditional entertainment. The gourmet menu, with Mexican food freshly prepared tableside, includes beverages (three tickets included for beer, wine, or soft drinks) and assorted desserts.

Each EAC dog in training lives in a caring foster home. The pups come to EAC as twoyear-olds trained by Canine Companions and Guide Dogs as service dogs deemed to best serve as Diabetic Alert Dogs (DADs). You may have encountered Nancy Crawford and EAC Jolo in Danville and Alamo while she was fostering Jolo. With years of fostering experience, she explains that the already well-trained dogs “fit seamlessly into working life and off work activities. These dogs come everywhere with us. Whether that is hiking, going to a restaurant, traveling, or just hanging out. They are easy to live with.” Weekend and short-term foster homes relieve the pressure if primary caregivers need to get away.

Unfortunately, dogs have a limited lifespan. Jolo has been placed with Monique whose first DAD, a Labrador Retriever named, Waimea died. Monique’s story, posted on the EAC website, begins: “Imagine being a young woman off to college for the first time and having your dorm mates call an ambulance multiple times because your blood sugar was so low they couldn't wake you up.” Diagnosed as a brittle Type 1 diabetic at age 13, Monique lives with the knowledge that what works one week might not the next. EAC Waimea gave her lifesaving, life-chang ing support, routinely alerting 30 minutes before her sensor.

Writing about the support she receives from EAC, Monique reports: “They’re always there when I need them. I know I’ve called Carol [Carol Edwards EAC Founder and Executive Director] plenty of times in the middle of the night with questions about Waimea. They’ve always been willing to answer the phones even in the middle of the night. And if I can’t get in touch with Carol right away, someone will always call me back quickly. I never have to beg for an answer.”

Succession planning eases the transition. In 2022, EAC hosted the first official ‘Successor Dog” training class, placing three dogs with some of EAC’s first clients. Stephanie’s first DAD EAC Ozark has retired after 12 1/2 years of faithful service and now lives with her parents. On welcoming her new DAD

See Fundraiser continued on page 22

(925) 405-6397

Rochelle Leininger flanked by her parents Mel and Leta Ramos. Photo courtesy of the Ramos Family Foundation.

Mel and Leta Ramos had fun dressing as their favorite comic book superheroes for Halloween. Photo courtesy of the Ramos Family Foundation.

EAC Jolo, fostered in Danville, helps Monique celebrate their first public appearance together.

BOULEVARD VIEW

By Alisa Corstorphine, Editor and Publisher

Two days a week I monitor a hotline for the Feral Cat Foundation, an all volunteer group. Calls generally come in from Contra Costa and Alameda Counties, but sometimes from somewhere else in the state or across the country. Although I recently took a call from someone thinking they found a “lost” turkey, most everyone is looking for help in caring for a cat or kittens they findin the bushes, in or under a car, in a backyard, garage, or attic, by a creek bed, in a neighborhood, in a parking lot, or dumped by uncaring humans. There are other callers who have an animal needing rehoming for a plethora of reasons - someone passed away, moving, landlord issues. There are also hoarding situations with dozens of animals in need all at once. All of these scenarios are common and take place in all of our neighborhoods.

Often the caller will question if a shelter, rescue group, foster, or city/town entity will “take care” of the situation. The caller will say, “Send ‘THEM’ out to trap, fix, remove...” the animal/s.

**News flash**, WE are THEY/THEM.

I completely understand the feeling of not enough hours in the day, and there being too much to personally take care of in the 24/7 hours we each have, let alone trying to tackle the plethora of other issues we see. However, the need to help each other, our communities, our local animals, is dire. Over 225 years ago, Benjamin Franklin said, “If you want something done, ask a busy person,” and I think that quote has a lot of validity.

I believe most of us could find an extra few minutes each day for causes we find important, to step-up and help improve situations around us. Help can be as simple as giving up a few minutes of scrolling on our phones and incorporating a task during our daily outings -- like picking up trash as we stroll down the trail. We can also beautify our communities by periodically spending a couple hours with a group of like-minded neighbors. Join with the Alamo Rotary or other crews (visit thecleanupcrew.org for one group) to leave our neighborhoods and common roadways looking better than before.

A few minutes can make a difference just by giving a check-in phone call to a senior as we sit in the carpool lane to pickup kids from school or while waiting during a sporting practice. A few minutes could be gathering supplies for the Contra Costa Food Bank, One Warm Coat, or folks dealing with the aftermath of a fire. Connect with one of the organizations and leave a bin on your driveway or porch for collection, and let neighbors know it is there.

If physical time to help just isn’t in the cards, most every group is grateful to receive a financial donation to help with their efforts.

These pages are chock-a-block full of ways to connect with those in need, get involved, participate, contribute, and make a difference. I’m also happy to help spread the word if you know of other local groups that may be under the radar, but are stepping up and needing a little spotlight. Let me know at editor@yourmonthlypaper.com.

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**RESCHEDULED** RELICS ON RAILROAD

Rescheduled from the blistering hot Labor Day weekend, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley is hosting artists and collectors at the 15th Annual “Relics on Railroad” Antiques, Art, and Upcycle Market on Sunday, October 16th from 9am to 3pm

The event will be held in the parking lot behind the Museum of the San Ramon Valley located at 205 Railroad Avenue in downtown Danville.

*Sunday,

Vendor booths will have fabulous finds, antiques, vintage wares, repurposed goods, arts and crafts, Halloween décor, jewelry, painted and primitive furnishings, garden accents, lamps, paintings, and mysterious relics at this outdoor market. In addition to vendor booths, there will be cyano type crafting, rock painting, and a kids craft activity. This is a great opportunity to find hand-crafted, artistic items to get a jump start on holiday, special occasion, hostess, and gift giving.

ALAMO WOMEN’S CLUB AUTHORS’ FAIRE

annual Alamo Women’s Club Authors’ Faire will be held on at Blackhawk Country Club in Danville. Tickets are $75 per person, and advanced reservations are required.

Ticket price includes a served lunch and an interesting program with six best-selling authors including Robert Dugoni - Moder ator, Cara Black, Michael C. Grumley, Jesse Kellerman, Gregory C. Randall, and Michelle Richmond.

Send payment to Alamo Women’s Club, P.O. Box 151 Alamo, CA 94507 and note, “Attn: Authors’ Faire.” If you would like to sit together with a group, please mail your checks in one envelope along with a list of the people for your table. Please purchase tickets by October 14th. You may also purchase tickets on Eventbrite at https://AWC-AF-2022.eventbrite.com

FREE TOUR OF THE ALAMO CEMETERY

On Saturday, October 22nd at 10AM docents from the Museum of the San Ramon Valley will provide a public tour of the Alamo Cemetery, located at 130 El Portal, Danville. The tour will last about an hour.

On the border of Alamo and Danville, this cemetery is full of pioneer grave sites with the first documented burial having taken place in 1856.

The cemetery is managed by the Alamo-Lafayette Cemetery District, a public, nonprofit cemetery governed by three appointed trustees. The office may be reached at 925-284-1353.

Some names important to early San Ramon Valley history may be seen on this tour, in cluding Stone, Love, Boone, Podva, and Bollinger. Historic re-enactors will also provide stories about Charlotte Wood, Mary Ann Jones, and R.O. and Mary Cox Baldwin.

To attend this free tour, go to the Museum of the San Ramon Valley’s website museumsrv.org and go to “Events,” or call the Museum at 925-837-3750.

Flavors of Fall

FRIENDS OF THE DANVILLE LIBRARY BOOK SALE

The Friends of the Danville Library will host a pop-up used book sale to raise money for our local library. There will be books of all genres and for all ages. Most hardbacks will be priced at $2 and most paperbacks at $1. Recent publications will be slightly higher. Cash and local checks only.

The sale will be held in the Mt. Diablo Room of the Danville Library located at 400 Front Street, Danville.

The next book sale will be held Saturday, October 15th from 10am to 2pm. Proceeds from the sale go towards funding library programs and purchasing library materials.

Please note: Due to the Thanksgiving holiday and school breaks, there will NOT be a sale in the month of November. Come in for the October sale to browse and stock up!

COMMISSION VOLUNTEERS SOUGHT

The Town of Danville is looking for residents interested in serving on one of several commissions seeking new volunteers. The following openings are available for terms beginning January 1, 2023.

• Poet Laureate – one youth position (2-year term)

• Heritage Resource Commission – four members (4-year terms)

• Planning Commission – four members (2 and 4-year terms)

• Design Review Board – three members (4-year terms)

Applications are available at www.danville.ca.gov/Commission-Recruitment. The deadline to file an application is 4PM Monday, October 24, 2022. Applicants have the option to interview with the Town Council on November 9 or 15, 2022.

For more information, contact City Clerk Marie Sunseri at (925) 314-3401 or msunseri@danville.ca.gov

QUEST FOR QUILTS!

Did you make a quilt during the COVID lockdown? Any quilt made after March 2020 is what is wanted to display at an upcoming Quilt Show.

The Quilt Show will be held at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, located at 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville, beginning February 1 st, 2023.

For an application to enter your quilt, visit MuseumSRV.org .

ONE WARM COAT & TOGETHER WE GIVE

For the 27th year, Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley will hold their One Warm Coat drive. Please clean out your closets and gather gently used, new, and clean, coats, sweaters, blankets, hats, and gloves of all sizes. Donations will benefit those in need in the East Bay and outreach charities.

Drop-off bins will be placed throughout the community from October 22nd through November 30th. For a list of locations, visit www. sanramonvalleyrotary.com.

In partnership, on Wednesday, November 16th from 2PM to 5PM, the Alamo Women’s Club’s Together We Give project will be offering curbside donation drop off. Tax receipts will be available. The Club is located at 1401 Danville Blvd. in Alamo.

For information, call Dany Gregory at 925-899-6771 or email OneWarmCoatRotary@gmail.com, Bernie Szalaj at 925-352-2155, bernard. szalaj@gmail.com, or Valerie Munoz at 925-683-6310 or vamunoz@comcast.net.

RUMPELSTILTSKIN

East Bay Children’s Theatre (EBCT), the oldest con tinuously operating theatre company in the Bay Area, is celebrating the launch of their 90th season. The venerat ed company will present the madcap family-friendly musical RUMPELSTILTSKIN – A Musical Spin!

EBCT’s fresh update on the classic fairy tale is brimming over with zany jokes, physical comedy, and surprising twists. Bay Area composer and playwright Ron Lytle has enhanced the story with an infectious Broadway style score.

EBCT will present the show for one performance only at The Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville, on Sunday, October 23rd at 2pm. Children (of all ages!) are encouraged to come in costume and have their picture taken on stage with the cast after the show that lasts about an hour.

For tickets and more info, visit www.ebctOnline.org

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https://sandamiano.org/events/oktoberfest2022/

CA 94526

925-837-9141

US INFLATION CONTINUES: RECENT LOCAL HOME PRICES AND THE FALL MARKET

By Joe Gatti

On September 21st, the Federal Reserve announced its 3rd consecutive .75 basis-point increase in a further attempt to contain the most rapid inflation in 40 years. September’s rate increase was the fifth of 2022, wherein the Fed’s policy rate has gone from 0% in March to 3%-3.25% today. We know the Federal Reserve’s decisions are directly affecting the US housing market, but how is it affecting our local market? We will see that when compared to the last two years, the days of properties selling for 20% over the listing price are behind us. With that said, local property owners can take comfort that the overall price of local homes is higher than one year ago, and over 20% higher than in 2020!

Since the Fed’s latest policy rate increase, the average 30 year fixed mortgage rate has jumped to 6.43%, its highest level since 2008.* When we look at how higher interest rates are affecting real estate activity in the greater Danville area,which includes Alamo, Blackhawk, Danville, Diablo, and San Ramon, we first see a direct effect on the amount of properties that actually close escrow. Between August 20th and September 20th of 2020 and 2021, 228 and 168 detached properties sold respectively.** During this same time period last month, only 126 detached prop erties sold in comparison. A 44.7% decline in sold inventory when compared to 2020 and a 25% inventory decline to 2021.

Likewise, when we compare the past three years we see a distinct level of price appreciation and how prices are now finally beginning to normalize. In August-September 2020,the median list price for our area was $1,430,000, with a modest increase in the median sold price to $1,477,000, a 3.1% price increase. During the same period of 2021, the list price jumped to $1,749,000, with the median sold price increasing for these properties to $1,846,500. That is a 5.2% increase, but a 20% increase year over year from 2020 to 2021. If we look at last month, the median list price was $1,962,500, but, unlike the previous two years, the median sold price has declined to $1,912,500,** a 2.5% price drop from list to the ultimate selling value. The sudden increases in interest rates have done what the Federal Reserve wanted it to do, which is limit buyer demand in order to reset price levels so inflation will ultimately begin to go down. What we need to keep in mind for our local real estate market is that home values are still 3.4% higher than this same period last year and 22.7% higher than in 2020!

The takeaway from our local real estate market’s recent sales data is that the amount of properties closing escrow is noticeably lower than previous years and this difference results from how interest rate levels have risen in the last six months. Buyers that are actively looking now have the ability to sit and evaluate the pros and cons of each property in a way that is healthier and more customary with a balanced market. Local sellers must remember that the amount of equity accumulated over the past two years is 22.7% or more, an unprecedented level which still places them in a favorable position to sell. The market char acteristics are different, but if you have questions on how much equity is in your home, please reach out for a private consultation. Our services and daily first hand experience in our local real estate market will help price your home correctly, so you can make the best decision regarding your future!

I hope you found this article helpful. I’ve been serving our real estate community for 10 years. Ron Gatti, my business partner and father, has been a full-time real estate professional for over 40 years, all in the greater Danville area. We both are Associate Brokers with Compass out of the 15 Railroad office in downtown Danville. If you have any real estate questions during this extraordinary time or have questions about this article, please email GattiRealEstate@gmail.com or call Joe Gatti at 925-588-3590. Our services are here for you!

*https://www.bankrate.com/mortgages/mortgage-rates, September 22, 2022.**Data taken from the MLS during specific dates and under the criteria mentioned within the article.

JOE & RON GATTI

AS DANVILLE NATIVES, WE KNOW DANVILLE AND THE SAN RAMON VALLEY

JOE GATTI

Broker Associate 925.588.3590 DRE 01914487

RON GATTI

Broker Associate 925.596.1972

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JULIE CYGAN REALTOR® 510.501.5160 DRE 02059093

CHELSY RUIZ REALTOR® 925.575.1358 DRE 02157574

OCTOBER AT THE MUSEUM OF THE SAN RAMON VALLEY

The First People, an exhibition of California Indians, will be on display at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley until November 14th

Visitors will see Indian home models, cave paintings, maps, hunting nets, arrowheads, a complete acorn-processing set up, and stunning Indian-made baskets including some beautiful, hand woven baskets from the Phelps Collection. Docents will allow visitors to try some traditional games as well.

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

EXAMINING THE NOVEMBER 2022

CALIFORNIA BALLOT INITIATIVES

Join the American Association of University Women’s (AAUW) Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek branch and the League of Women Voters of Diablo Valley in an informative free presentation of the pros and cons related to our 2022 ballot measures. A presentation by speakers Sue Brandy and Janet Hoy and the Diablo Valley League of Women Voters Pros & Cons Team will help sort through the latest array of initiatives. The presentation will take place on Thursday, October 20th from 6-8PM at the Greenbrook Clubhouse located at 300 Greenbrook Drive, in Danville.

This year, more than ever, we need to prepare for this critical election before we cast our ballots. California is facing unprecedented challenges to our democracy, not to mention the public health and economic crises. As voters, we must consider critical issues such as systemic racism, homelessness, rebuilding a crumbling in frastructure, and a wide range of measures that you will find on this year’s ballot.

This discussion offers a look behind the slogans to better understand the ballot measure opportunities and their consequences. To register for this event, visit our website Ballots Initiatives page at https://daw-ca.aauw.net/2022oct.

ADAS MEETING WITH PASTEL ARTIST SYLVIA GONZALEZ

Come hear pastel artist Slyvia Gonzalez at the Tuesday, October 11th, 7:30pm Alamo Danville Artists’ Society meeting, which will take place at the Alamo Women’s Club located at 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo.

Sylvia’s current work consists of monotype, which is the background, and charcoal pencil and soft pastel, drawing on top. Sylvia notes, “I love the monotype process for its mystery, because when I start a piece, I never know how it will turn out. When I feel that the monotype is complete, then I decide what, if anything I will draw on top. The bird and animal drawings are done from observation, sketches, and many photographs. They add a focus to my love of wildlife and nature, and are very much in the present moment.”

Please visit www.sylviagonzalez.com or adas4art.org for more information.

DIABLO SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA: CONCERT

“CELEBRATION”

The Diablo Symphony Orchestra opens its Diamond (60th) Jubilee Season on Sunday, October 23rd, with Gustav Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 (“Titan”) and Aaron Copland’s “Canticle of Freedom,” featuring the San Ramon Valley Chorale (SRVC). Titled “Celebration,” the concert begins at 2PM at the Lesher Center for the Arts in Walnut Creek.

Themes of struggle, freedom, and triumph permeate the program.

The SRVC was founded in 2016 by Director Bruce Koliha and his former student Hayden Padgett, who gathered alumni from Monte Vista and San Ramon Valley High Schools as well as singers from area religious and community organizations.

Season and individual concert tickets are available at www.diablosympho ny.org, at the Lesher Center for the Arts box office (1601 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek), or by calling 925-943-SHOW (7469).

SRV GENEALOGICAL SOCIETY

The San Ramon Valley Genealogical Society (SRVGS) was organized in 1985 to provide its members with re sources, assistance, and educational opportunities that help them successfully research their ancestry. The group pub lishes a monthly newsletter and offers monthly meetings of small groups with common interests to discuss their specific areas of research. SRVGS also provides resources ranging from a large selection of reference books to information on local genealogical libraries.

You are invited to join the Tuesday, October 18th, 10AM ZOOM meeting with a presentation by Nancy Loe entitled “Researching Ancestral Locations in Prussia.”

Nancy is an archivist, librarian, and professional genealogist. After a long professional career in academic archives and genealogy libraries, she launched her website, SassyJaneGenealogy.com in 2010.

SassyJaneGenealogy.com features a blog, a monthly newsletter, and ge nealogy e-books on U.S. and European research. Nancy also provides expert guidance on information management and research skills in her presentations.

To become a member of SRVGS, visit srvgensoc.org and click on the “Join SRVGS” tab on the left side of the home page. For questions about the group, email president@srvgensoc.org.

TOWN OF DANVILLE PRESENTS NEW ART EXHIBIT “IMAGINE THAT”

The Village Theatre Art Gallery will host the painting group “Beyond the Brush,” which is comprised of local artists Jane Corich, Irene Desmond, Jan Foulds, Lynn Glenn, Judy Hirabayshi, Jo Ann Lieberman, Yolanda Mihic, Jeanie Moran, Q. Stone-Forbess, Ann Vestal, and Roberta Welburn-Milstead. For an exhibit, titled Imagine That, the artists created paintings inspired by Beethoven’s 9th Symphony. The exhibit will be on display from October 20th to December 16th

Beyond the Brush artists carry on the tradition of artists being inspired by artists. The all-women artist group, based in the East Bay, meets monthly to offer support for each other’s artistic growth through mentoring and collaborative critiques. The exhibit showcases paintings that are meant to be a convergence of the poem, the music, and the power of color, texture, and imagery of paint and a brush.

An artists’ opening reception will take place Thursday, October 20th from 5:30-7:30PM at the Village Theatre Art Gallery located at 233 Front Street in Danville. Music by Beethoven will be played to create mood and insight into the connection between the music and artwork. Complimentary refreshments will be served. The event is free and open to the public. Donations are appreciated.

For more information, contact Visual Arts Coordinator Marija Nelson Bleier at 925-314-3460 or mnelsonbleier@danville.ca.gov.

THE HISTORY AND STORY OF LAKE MERRITT: A FREE VIRTUAL PROGRAM

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley will offer a unique, free, virtual program, “The History and Story of Lake Merritt” on October 20th at 11:30AM.

Lake Merritt is a major landmark in the city of Oakland. Surrounded by a Cathedral, a children’s fairyland, housing, and runners, bikers, and pic nickers it is a busy and vibrant place. What do we really know about the lake? Is it man made? If so, who built it and why? Why is it called Lake Merritt? Has it always played such a central role in the city of Oakland? Noted Oakland historian and award winning author Dennis Edanosky will tell the story of Lake Merritt.

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

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville. Hours are Tuesday-Friday 1PM-4PM, Saturday 10AM-1PM, and Sunday noon-3PM

SAVE THE DATES!

Get ready for the Danville Lighting of the Old Oak Tree to be held on Friday, November 25 th from 4-8 PM, and the Alamo Tree Lighting Festival to be held on December 4th from 4:30-6:30PM

Kick-off the holidays and com munity spirit!

MONTE VISTA HIGH

By Dr. Kevin Ahern, Principal

As Monte Vista’s (MV) students and staff enter the third month of the school year, there are so many amazing things happening around campus. Whether it’s academics, arts, athletics, or student activities, there is an incredible amount of learning going on. There isn’t a day that goes by where I do not feel grateful to work with such an amazing group of students and educators.

In mid-September, 10 MV seniors were named as National Merit Scholars. These recognitions come with our high success rate on the PSAT, which is a nationally-normed exam. In mid-October, 10th and 11th graders at MV will have the opportunity to take the PSAT once again, and we hope that our students’ success continues and results in even more recognized scholars.

On September 22nd, we kicked off our second iteration of MV Reads where we invite our students, staff, and community to read a book together and then come together to discuss themes and learn from each other. This year’s book is The 57 Bus by Dashka Slater – a local author. We are excited about our conversations on how we can grow together as a community. October 3rd, MV student leaders began their third year of the SLAM program, and later in the month our 10th and 11th graders will have the opportunity to participate in our annual Breaking Down the Walls program. Finally, on October 7th, MV will host a SRVUSD School Board Candidate Forum which allows our students to directly engage with the three individuals running for our open Area 1 School Board Seat.

MVs Arts programs have been very busy. Our Marching Band has entertained our fans at our home football games and is gearing up for a variety of Marching Band competitions that will be held throughout the fall. MV’s Choir gave our com munity another wonderful performance at their annual Bach to School Concert in addition to performing at several local events. Stay tuned for our upcoming Drama and Dance performances as we move deeper into the fall season.

Many of MV’s Athletic teams are enjoying amazing starts to their respective fall seasons. MV Women’s Volleyball Team is currently unbeaten in EBAL play and among the highest ranked teams in Northern California. MV’s Women’s Golf Team is also undefeated and working towards EBAL and NCS banners. Women’s Tennis is also off to an undefeated start as they vie for league and section titles and our Cross-Country teams are both well positioned to make a run for their own championship pennants. Men’s and Women’s Water Polo are off to fast starts and are challenging for post-season accolades. Lastly, MV Football’s young team has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the first half of the season, and they are aiming for a strong finish as they move into EBAL play. I look forward to sharing more about the Mustangs as we move deeper into the fall athletics season.

Homecoming Week is set for October 9th through October 15th and this year’s theme is the Met Gala. Throughout the week, our students will be celebrating with a variety of spirit and dress-up days which will culminate with a rally on Friday morning. In addition, on Thursday, October 13th, we will be honoring MV’s second Hall of Fame Class at Round Hill Country Club as well as the MV Classes of 1970, 1971, and 1972 at Friday’s Homecoming Game against Amador Valley. The week will conclude with the Homecoming Dance on Saturday evening.

There are many opportunities to see the great things our students are doing – visit the MV website (https://mvhs.srvusd.net) 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 of your support.

SRVHS CLASSES OF 1961, 1962, AND 1963 REUNION & EXHIBIT

The Wolves of San Ramon Valley High School (SRVHS) are gathering for a reunion and the Museum of the San Ramon Valley is mounting an exhibit to remember one pack from the early sixties. A “High School Reunion: 1961, 1962, 1963” will be featured until November 13.

There will be photographs and memorabilia from school alums, including letter jackets and a majorette’s baton. Wolf Print newspapers will remind visitors about school activities. The school annuals, called El Lobo, will be featured. And, an original Woodstock poster and other sixties posters will be displayed.

Step back 60 years to review life at the valley’s first (and, at this time, only) high school. If you have any interesting items from these years, please contact the Museum.

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

CATCH UP ON SOME “Z s ” LEAVES ARE CHANGING AND SO ARE WE

By Jaime Kaiman, Monte Vista High, Senior

I think Taylor Swift described the feeling of fall perfectly when she spoke of “autumn leaves falling down, like pieces into place.” There’s something about fall that feels cozy and comfortable. Is it the cardigans and sweaters we put on to wear by the fireplace? Is it the scent of pine cones we smell as we take walks in our neighborhoods? Is it the pumpkin spice latte that makes us warm as the wind blows through our hair? All of these things contribute to creating the true ambiance of autumn. Another thing about fall is that the leaves change colors and fall from their trees. It is the season of transition and change, which is also oftentimes reflected in ourselves.

One of the most interesting changes so far this year is not even within this country. The monarch of the United Kingdom, Queen Elizabeth II, just recently passed away. Queen Elizabeth II was the monarch since 1953. It’s going to take some time adjusting to a world without a monarch. Now, as King Charles has taken the throne it will affect many aspects of not only European society, but also European relations with other countries as well. It will be interesting to see how the UK transitions from having a queen to having a king, especially considering that the UK was already experiencing transition with their Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, recently resigning his position, and the Conservative Liz Truss was elected to succeed Johnson and take on the role. With the amount of change happening abroad right now, it’s truly a fascinating time to be experiencing and living in the now.

Closer to home, we can discuss how fall also brings on traditions like Hal loween, school formals, and homecomings! Every year, I like to predict what the most popular costumes might be considering what has been relevant in the media over the year. This year, I’m thinking a large majority of people will dress up as characters from Stranger Things because the show broke Netflix viewership records when its fourth season was released.

As for school dances this year, it will be interesting to note the change between being masked versus being maskless. More and more people are choosing to go maskless as we enter our second year of living with Covid. In general, school is already very different than last year with the majority going maskless, so it will truly be put into perspective seeing everyone at Homecoming and future dances.

Overall, people are like leaves because as we grow throughout the year, it’s inevitable that we will endure changes at some point. We are constantly changing not only as a society, but also as individuals. Change can be scary, but it’s always helpful to look for comfort in the things around you, whether that be family, friends, nature, etc. That is the true spirit of autumn.

Ananya Seetharaman (center in yellow) founded the non-profit, Igniting Dreams (ID), after learning how students of underserved communities, only 28 miles from her hometown of Danville, lacked the facilities for STEAM education. The mission of ID is to provide resources and materials to equip kids from these communities with equal opportunities to follow their dreams into STEAM workstreams.

One recent ID project was collecting and donating books for kids. ID chose to work with the East Bay Children’s Book Project (eastbaychildrensbookproject.org ) in Oakland whose mission is to provide children with books that have little to no access to them. Through donations from neighbors and the community, ID was able to collect and donate 1,347 books.

ID has also donated over 240+ STEAM kits to schools and around 300 warm coats to smaller communities. Learn more about the group at ignitingdreams.org

REMEMBERING CONNIE FORSLIND

Connie Forslind, a dedicated and highly respected teacher, passed away on September 1 st , 2022. Connie spent her 39-year teaching career educating first and second graders mainly at Rancho Romero Elementary School in Alamo.

A celebration of Connie’s life is open to the public and will be held on Saturday, October 8 th , at 11 AM at New Life Church 2501 Danville Boulevard, Alamo.

ORATORICAL CONTEST OPEN TO HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS

The Oratorical Contest is a time-honored constitutional speech contest annually sponsored by the American Legion. The contest was established in 1938 to provide high school students with an opportunity to develop a deeper knowledge, appreciation, and understanding of the duties, responsibilities, rights, and privileges of American citizenship and the U.S. Constitution.

Interested high school students of the San Ramon Valley Unified School District, private schools, and home school students who live in San Ramon, Danville, or Alamo, may notify the American Legion Mt. Diablo Post 246 of their interest in partici pating via e-mail to com manderpost246@gmail.com or postal mail at Mt Diablo Post 246, P.O. Box 133, Danville, CA 94526, not later than December 31, 2022. Include student name, school name, grade, and contact information.

Participants have the opportunity to develop their public speaking skills and win college scholarships. For more information, visit www. legion.org/oratorical/about or contact Neil Giles at 925-272-8480.

SAN RAMON VALLEY CHRISTIAN ACADEMY

By Jamie Westgate, Principal

Every year, we look forward to taking our middle school students away for a spiritual retreat where they grow closer to God and closer to one another. Some may think five days of fun and games with a spiritual emphasis takes away from the academic learning process. Our teachers and staff members have found that nothing could be further from the truth. The old phrase “they don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care” rings true in this situation as students come back rejuvenated and eager to listen to the instruction our faculty has for them. For three decades I have watched students react to different teaching styles, and the most effective model has always been born out of mutual respect.

Today, students seem to be struggling with how to love and care for themselves. Perhaps social media plays a role where they’re defined by a number of “likes” or aware of exclusive events to which they haven’t been invited. As a result, it seems like the average student is struggling more noticeably to gain attention and feel accepted. Camp provides the time students need to create relationships and grow a belonging to a community. Students connect over creative field games or bond over singing and s’mores. They open up and show vulnerability which ultimately helps them to know that others feel the same way. They read in the Bible that God’s love for them is unconditional and not built on performance.

This year, we are taking students to Hume Lake Christian Camp. Our kids look forward to enjoying lake life which will include swimming, paddleboarding, kayaking, and perhaps even some fishing. They’ll also enjoy crafts, activities, and cabin time. Twice a day, an inspirational message will be shared to help students know how deeply loved they are. I look forward to the memories that will be made and the friendships that will be rooted during our time away. I’m confident our kids will come back tired from all the fun, yet refreshed by all the joy.

CAREGIVER & LIFE SKILLS TUTOR NEEDED

We are a family in San Ramon looking for a life skills tutor and caregiver for our son. T is 23 years old, autistic, and developmentally delayed. We are looking for someone who will provide typical care-giving in addition to educational and therapeutic activities, with the support and guidance of T’s team. This is a wonderful opportunity for a college student or other individuals who are interested in pursuing any disability-related field and have some autism or I/DD experience.

T is non-speaking and uses modified ASL signs, picture icons, and iPad software to communicate. T is an abstract artists and loves nature, art, and music.

Daily activities

• Personal care and support at home and in the community.

• Activities of daily living: includes helping him with dressing, cleaning, toileting

• Health and fitness activities: includes supervising scooter, bike, basketball, hikes

• Support for community activities: includes prepping T utilizing iPad software

• Support for T to visit potential employment options such as trail clean-up

Ensure T’s safety

• Facilitate daily routines and augmentative communication using iPad

• Paid training will be provided to learn software

• Communicate with T’s team regarding performance on daily tasks

• Family prefers a shared scheduled with two tutors

• Tutor support needed 7 days a week (Monday through Sunday)

• Tutors can work between 4-6 hours per work day

• Maximum hours per week are 30 hours per individual tutor

• Starting wage is $32.50 per hour

• Fingerprints, COVID-19 vaccination, and First Aid/CPR certification required

• Family will provide PPE (KN95 masks, gloves, sanitizer) if needed

Please email your resume, a brief summary of your experience, and a reference to jessp55@gmail.com. We will contact you to let you know if we think there may be a match. Thanks for your time and consideration! Jess (He/Conservator/Father/Trustee)

RED DRESS GALA

The Eta Delta chapter of Alpha Phi Fraternity at CSU East Bay is holding their first annual Red Dress Gala fundraiser in almost a decade. The event is in support of the Alpha Phi Foundation, which advances women’s lives through the power of philanthropy. The Foundation supports its membership through all stages of life with scholarships, assistance grants, and leadership training. The foundation also awards $100,000 annually to fund research and edu cational programs that support the advancement of women’s heart health via its Heart to Heart grant.

More than half of the planning team for this event has received support from the Alpha Phi Foundation. Karen Parada, an Eta Delta Alumnae and first-generation PhD student, received a scholarship from the Foundation to support her pursuit of her PhD at the University of Hawai’i at Mānoa. Danville local, Briana Farnden, Eta Delta volunteer, received an assistance grant in the Fall of 2020 after finding herself buried in debt from her hospital stay due to a life-threatening cardiovascular disease. Emily Kilbride, Soph omore at CSU East Bay and the Vice President of Health, Wellness, and Accountability, attended the Alpha Phi Leadership Institute, gaining skills to establish herself as a leader and to drive action in today’s ever changing world. The Alpha Phi Foundation has had a profound impact on the lives of these Alpha Phi current and past members, as well as thousands of other women in our community and beyond.

Red Dress Gala will be held at the Danville Grange located at 743 Diablo Rd, Danville and will take place on Friday, October 28th at 6pm. Everyone is invited to attend. Special ticket pricing is available for Alpha Phi alumnae and CSUEB students. The event will consist of dinner, silent auction, games, and more! Ticket purchases and monetary donations can be made at eta deltardg.givesmart.com

The Alpha Phi Foundation is a 501(c)3 not for profit organization. Please contact csuebaphivphwa@gmail.com for additional information.

KIWANIS CLUB OF SAN RAMON VALLEY

The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley meets every Thursday at noon at Black Bear Diner located at 807 Camino Ramon in Danville. The Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville and many other exciting events. The Club has a weekly program speaker and specializes in fun and entertaining camaraderie. There is no charge for a guest lunch. For more information, email info@srvkiwanis.org, or visit www.srvkiwanis.org

EXCHANGE CLUB

The Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley meets for lunch the second Wednesday of every month at Faz Restau rant, located at 600 Hartz Avenue in Danville. Sign-in and social time begin at 11:30AM. The meeting starts promptly at noon and ends promptly at 1PM . The one-hour program features guest speakers and business networking. Guests are welcome. The cost is $25. For reservations and information, please contact Karen Stepper at 925-998-8865 or coachstepper@yahoo.com

DANVILLE LIONS CLUB

The Danville Lions Club meets at 5PM on the first Tuesday of the month, and also at 6:30PM on the third Wednesday of the month. The group is looking for people who wish to volunteer their time for good causes to join the club. The group is a dinner-time club and meets at Danville restaurants for dinner and business meetings. Danville Lions raise funds and provide services to those in need, both locally and worldwide, through fun and gratifying projects. Lions are well known for successful initiatives in vision health. Visit www.e-clubhouse.org/sites/ danvilleca to learn more or contact Club president Diana Gaines at 925-719-1553.

LOCAL ROTARY CLUBS

To learn more about The Rotary Club of Alamo and see current meeting dates and times, visit their Facebook page “Rotary Club of Alamo.” More information is also available at alamorotary.org, alamorotary@hotmail.com,

SONS IN RETIREMENT

LAS TRAMPAS BRANCH #116

Sons in Retirement (SIR) Las Trampas Branch 116 helps semi-re tired and retired men lead active lives. All ages are invited to partake in enriching social activities. There are minimal dues and no major commitments. Come join the group to make new friends and social connections and stay active. Monthly meetings are held at Boundary Oak Golf Course.

The robust and well organized nine-hole and 18-hole golf programs are in full swing. Play is at Boundary Oak and other courses in the area. There are two different book groups that meet monthly. A very active fishing group takes place with participation from SIR members in the area. Join our pickleball group for a fun way to get some exercise. The bridge group meets for lunch twice a month. Put on your shoes and take an easy hour-long walk every Friday morning with the Amiable Amblers walking group and also join in the monthly sponsored walking tours to explore local areas. Spouses and friends join in on wine tastings which take place at members houses and group dinners which are held at local restaurants.

To learn more or become a member, visit https://sirinc2.org/branch116, or call 925-322-1160. Come join the group and have some fun!

SAN RAMON VALLEY BRANCH #128

Looking for things to do in your retirement? Consider joining SIR San Ramon Valley Branch #128. There are monthly luncheons with interesting speakers and good fellowship. In-person luncheons occur on the third Wednesday of each month at 11AM at The Bridges located at 9000 S. Gale Ridge, San Ramon. The next luncheon will take place on Wednesday, October 19th. The speaker will be Carol Patterson, Shepard’s Gate CEO.

Carol began serving as the CEO in January of 2018. Previously, she served 17+ years as Vice President at Cityteam where she focused on homelessness and addiction across the US. Her expertise in nonprofit ministry, finance, and oper ations have positioned her to be a visionary leader to advance the organization.

Carol’s tremendous passion for homeless and abused women and children in the Bay Area is her most important asset. She continues Shepherd’s Gate’s mission and advancement to expand their programs to meet the ever growing needs in our community.

SIR 128 offers its members many activities including investing, book groups, fantasy football, technology, wine tastings, golf, bocce ball, bicycling, hiking, pickleball, and more.

If you’re interested in attending the luncheon/meeting as a guest, email mem bership@sir128.com. To learn more about the group, visit www.SIR128.com

NATIONAL 4-H WEEK

National 4-H Week is here from October 2-8! This is a week that highlights the remarkable 4-H youth in our communities and showcases the incredible experiences that 4-H offers to young people. Tassajara 4-H (T4-H) serves youth in Danville, Alamo, San Ramon, and Walnut Creek. The club prides itself on its welcoming environment, creating a space to be seen and belong, and to celebrate the possibility within every young person.

This year, our youth have a lot to celebrate. Over the summer, the Officer team held a two-day leadership retreat and club members Mary and Kate held the 2nd annual day camp for all Contra Costa County 4-H members. This event was held as part of their Emerald Star project. T4-H also had many members that received awards at County Achievement Night! Club Member Sudharsan serves on the California 4-H STEM Advisory Leadership Committee and was invited to present at U.C. Davis. Using Geographic In formation Systems (GIS) mapping technologies, he has created the “Where’s the Food?” initiative to bring awareness to communities facing food inse curity, with the goal of increasing the number of food retailers and farmers markets that accept public assistance benefits such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program).

T4-H would not be where it is without its backbone of volunteers and would like to give a very special thanks to Dr. Elisa Dowd, who has been an active volunteer for over 30 years, leading the Veterinary Science project. T4-H would also like to thank her husband, Mr. Doug Graver, who has been an active volunteer for over 20 years, leading projects such as Archery and Beekeeping.

For more information on T4-H and how to enroll, please visit our website at tassajara4h.org or contact our club leaders at info@tassajara4h.org.

VETERAN SERVICE ORGANIZATION MEETINGS

Veteran Service Organizations (VSOs) meet at the Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley, located at 400 Hartz Avenue in Danville, except as otherwise noted.

• American Legion Post 246 meets on the first Wednesday of each month (except August) at noon. For information, visit www.americanlegion post246.org, email commanderpost246@gmail.com, or call 925-272-8480.

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

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

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

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

• Bay Area Navy Nurse Corps Association holds two general meetings in June and December. For information, visit https://nnca.org, or email bannca@nnca.org.

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

BUYING, SELLING & BUILDING THE BEST OF THE BAY.

TECHNOLOGY MATTERS By Evan Corstorphine, Portable CIO, Inc.

PADDLING AGAINST THE CURRENT

The challenge with conspiratorial thinking is that sometimes conspiracies really do exist. However, usually we’re just swept up in bigger trends that we don’t realize. Let me spend some time explaining where we need to adjust our attitude about the equipment we use. The premise of my argument is there is no conspiracy to create computers (tablets, phones, stereos, speakers, headphones, etc.) that only last five years. We’ll pick on Apple Computer today; however, this metaphor works across the board.

We’re tempted to think that when we buy expensive technology that it should last longer. We are surprised that a product becomes obsolete. Some want to blame someone because nobody wants to buy a new computer. We think the manufacturers must be greedy students of “manufactured obsolescence” and that they’re designing all of these (computers, tablets, phones, stereos, speakers, headphones, etc.) to only last a couple of years.

In Apple’s case, my opinion is they deserve 50% derision and 50% forgiveness. They make many really cool products that work very well. I own many. There’s the forgiveness. And, there are certainly things to complain about the way they build their computers today. Today, they’re a closed hardware system. In an era of heady ecological awareness and “carbon footprints,” isn’t it hypocritical to create computers that will fill landfills and recyclers in greater numbers? I think so. If you purchase a new Mac system with only 8GB of memory and a 256GB SSD, ever shall it be so. People keep buying low-end gear thinking it can be upgraded. It can’t because now Apple computers are 100% non-upgradeable. You’re stuck with what you bought. This causes people to be very disappointed they didn’t shoot high enough when they bought the computer. Either they live with substandard performance, or they need to re-purchase sooner. Apple doesn’t mind that. In my opinion, this is a cynical design decision by Apple and one that industry watchers and “repairability” experts are not very happy about. Yet, a decision by one manufacturer doesn’t make a conspiracy. You could just buy another computer.

The fact is that all hardware is anchored in a point in time. The computer you buy tomorrow will be stamped October, 2022. However, software is always evolving with new features, security upgrades, new concepts, and new looks. It isn’t just Apple; it’s everyone. Just like cars change every year, so does software. And, software only gets bigger and more complex. Software created in 2024 is going to be written for computers in 2025 and beyond, and to capture the new capabilities made possible with newly created hardware horsepower. What about your October, 2022 computer? It’s stuck in time, and it just gets older. Every year, the currently available software will run slower on your computer until parts of the software simply won’t work at all. You’ll say “my computer is so slow,” or blame the manufacturer. In reality, your computer is still as fast as it was when you bought it; it simply can’t efficiently run today’s heavier, more complex software. Progress is not Apple’s fault because we pay them to be innovative and to add interesting new features. They’re delivering.

There’s nobody to blame. We’re simply stuck in a web of time and Moore’s Law. Gordon Moore’s “law” says every two years the density of transistors in a chip will double. This has stayed true since the 1970’s. What we’ve also found is that during that period the consumer cost decreases by approximately 50% for a given technology. This can be broadly applied to all things electronic. The press of innovation and healthy marketplace competition will always cause this to happen. Things get more capable every two years, and software is written for those new capabilities. Old hardware just can’t keep up.

The best way to protect yourself is to buy well. If you need a computer, you mustn’t be cheap and buy a budget-special from Walmart, Best Buy, or Costco’s retail store. It’s irrelevant that you only need to surf the web and read email. Buy more memory, a faster processor, and a bigger SSD than you think you’ll need. Tomorrow’s software will need it, and tomorrow is right around the corner. Ask us for a recommendation and we’ll steer you toward the best price/ performance we find. Run configurations past us before purchase. We want you to be long-term happy.

It’s important to realize that everyone is doing their best. Hardware and software companies are doing their best to deliver the fastest and most interest ing products possible. While companies are far from perfect, if you stay in the curve of current hardware and software, you’re going to have a much better experience. Try to stretch that curve, and I can guarantee it you just won’t have as much fun.

Need more computing tough-love? Give our friendly staff a call at 925-552-7953, or email info@pcioit.com

CONTRA COSTA COUNTY AIRPORTS

By County Supervisor Candace Andersen

People are often surprised to learn that Contra Costa County (CCC) owns and operates two airports -- Buchanan Field in Concord and the Byron Airport. No property tax or local funds are used to support or operate Buchanan Field or Byron airports. In fact, both airports generate revenue for the County, local school districts, and other community agencies.

In May of this year, the County hired a new Director of Airports to oversee their operation, Greg Baer. Mr. Baer leads the Airports Division and has 20 years of Public Works experience and over six years of airports man agement. He most recently served as the Airport Manager for the Napa County Airport. Previously, he worked in the Public Works Department for the City of American Canyon as well as United Airlines. Greg earned his bachelor’s degree in Aviation from San Jose State College of Engineering and received a master’s degree in Public Administration from Sonoma State University. In 2018, Greg received the Herman C. Bliss Partnership Award from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Western Pacific Region. He is also a licensed private pilot.

The Byron Airport was built in 1994 for $22 million. The airport is 1,427 acres with 934 acres of habitat management lands for protected and special status species. The goal of building a second County airport was to help relieve traffic from Buchanan Field. Since its inception, Byron Airport has grown to accommodate several different programs and businesses that offer aviation scholarship and learning opportunities; sky diving; and a testing site for experimental, unmanned, and electric aircraft. In the fall of 2021, an Electric Vertical Takeoff and Landing (EvoTL) took place at Byron making it the first in the airport’s history. Byron Airport is currently under development to support emerging aviation technology businesses.

The Buchanan Field airport in unincorporated CCC between Concord and Pacheco has been in operation at the same location since the early 1940’s. In 2021, the Board of Supervisors committed $5.7 million from the sale of revenue bonds to upgrade the airport. The FAA will fund an additional $6 million to replace the existing 30-year-old temporary facility, while the Airport Enterprise fund will cover the remaining costs. The projected construction completion of the new terminal building is fall of 2023.

Buchanan Field has recently renovated its runway and emergency response capability. Buchanan Field is a great county resource that provides easy access to

QUICK TRIPS

By Linda Summers Pirkle

ISLAND TREATS AND A BAY AREA CLASSIC

Bay Area transportation and local amenities. While most air traffic at Buchanan involves private planes, commercial carriers such as JSX fly to Orange County and Burbank from Buchanan Field.

In 2020, the County began working to promote Buchanan Field and Byron Airport as ideal locations for emerging aviation innovation and technology busi nesses to test and develop their products. CCC is located near numerous tech centers and several companies were interested in testing their aviation-related products, including new drone technology, at both airports. The program is referred to as the Bay Area Test Sites (BATS). Both Buchanan Field and Byron Airport offer businesses a unique opportunity to design, develop, and test in a central location. Currently, both CCC Airports are official FAA unmanned aerial system (UAS) test sites. The airports have a partnership with the University of Alaska, Fairbanks and the Pan-Pacific Unmanned Aerial System Test Range Complex (PPUTRC).

To oversee the airports the County has three different committees. The Aviation Liaison Committee was reconstituted in 1977 as the Aviation Advisory Committee and serves as an advisory group to the CCC Board of Supervisors. The group provides advice and recommendations to the Board on aviation matters related to the CCC Airports. The group also provides community members living and working near the Airports a chance to stay informed on Airport matters as well as voice their opinions and concerns. The AAC typically meets at 10AM on the second Thursday of the month.

The Airport Committee is a subcommittee of the Board of Supervisors. Its members are generally the Supervisors that have an airport located in their district. Byron Airport is in District III and is represented by Supervisor Diane Burgis, while Buchanan Field is in District IV and is represented by Supervisor Karen Mitchoff. The Airport Committee meets on a quarterly basis.

There is also an Airport Land Use Commission (ALUC) which conducts airport land use compatibility planning. The ALUC is charged with protecting public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring the orderly expansion of airports and the adoption of land use measures that will minimize the public’s exposure to excessive noise and safety hazards around the airports. The Contra Costa ALUC meets the third Thursday of each month at 7PM. Agendas are available prior to the scheduled meetings.

You can learn more about the airports on our CCCAirports Homepage https:// www.contracosta.ca.gov/4694/Airports

My office is here to serve the residents of CCC District 2, which includes Alamo, Blackhawk, Canyon, Danville, Diablo, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Rossmoor, San Ramon, Tassajara Valley, and parts of un-incorporated Walnut Creek. Please 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 925-655-2300.

Ever-changing clouds, blossoms of every color, frequent unpredictable rainfall, spectacular ocean views, trade winds, and, of course, wild chickens. Where am I? Kauai, the northern most island in Hawaii and home to the world’s friendliest people is also known for delicious and diverse food. Finding your favorite spot serving island treats including Kauai grown coffee, Poke, Saimin, mac salad, Loco Moco, Lomi Lomi, slow roasted pork, and shave ice is a wonderful way to spend a vacation.

Since 2021, a new bakeshop with French pastries rivaling those in Parisian patisseries can be added to the list of Kauai’s treasures. Orly’s Bakery is our new favorite island establishment offering astounding French pastries, croissants, artisanal breads, macarons, cream puffs, and Hawaii-inspired fruit cheesecake.

A customer favorite is Chef Orly’s cheesecake creation: a blend of Ube and tangy sweet Lilikoi cream with a graham cracker crust adding the perfect crunchy texture, topped off with lightly sweetened whipped cream, and a garnish of homemade chocolate. Chef Orly shared, “I put the two ingredients together knowing the flavors would complement each other. In short term it became the most popular item in the store.”

Chef Orly studied under renowned Pastry Chef Ewald Notter and was mentored by the late Stanton Ho. He competed on Food Network several times and won all the challenges: The Sugar Dome, Halloween Wars Season 8, and Cookie Wars. In 2021, he promised himself that Holiday Wars would be his last competition on Food Network. Although his team lost at the final challenge, he says, “Defeat makes one learn valuable lessons.”

Closer to home, the San Francisco Bay Area is known for fabulous food. Ranking high on many people’s list is sourdough bread. On a recent tour at the Alameda headquarters of Semifreddi’s -- maker of artisanal bread including sourdough bread, muffins, cookies, and pastries, I was able to chat with founders Tom Franier and his brother-in-law, Michael Rose.

Semifreddi’s is known today as the bakery that delivers fresh bread daily all over the Bay Area. Opened in 1984, in a 450 square foot space in Kensington, CA., Semifreddi’s launched with one sourdough recipe, four products, and a commitment to bake fresh bread daily. Today, Semifreddi’s utilizes over 25 different recipes and bakes more than 50 different breads and pastries.

In 2009, Semifreddi’s headquarters opened in Alameda. It’s a gorgeous light filled high ceiling space. The goal when designing the 33,000 square foot factory included natural light for energy saving and employee well-being. Tom pointed out 32 huge flags dis played across the tall ceiling, each representing the diverse employees’ homeland, some celebrating over 20 years with the company. Not only the employees are international; ingredients come from all over the world including fennel from India, poppy seeds from Australia and the Netherlands, cinnamon from Indonesia, vanilla from Madagascar, and flour milled close by in Oakland.

One of my favorite Semifreddi’s products is their renowned sourdough baguette, aptly described as: “A balance of sour flavors. The caramelized crisp crust contrasts with the sour tang of the crumb.”

Orly’s Bakery is in the Hokulei Village Shopping Center in Puhi, at 4454 Nuhou Street, Kauai. The original Semifreddi’s retail shop is located at 372 Colusa Avenue, Kensington, CA. It is open every day from 7:30AM-3PM. Tours of the Alameda headquarters are limited. Visit www.semifreddis.com for more information.

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

Photo by Barry Barsamian.

Photo by Orly Yadao.

CLIP NOTES By Jody Morgan

As a devotee of hazelnuts and native plants, I was delighted to discover the possibility of accommodat ing both interests simultaneously. Paging through Edith Van Allen Murphey’s Indian Uses of Native Plants, I read: “In northern California, hazel nuts are highly valued, not only for the nuts which taste much like filberts, but the bush that bears them has wood that can be split very fine and is used in the finest basketry.” Aware that commercially produced hazel nuts, also known as filberts, are grown primarily on trees native to Europe, I wondered how easily the North American native species adapts to cultivation.

In Gardening with a Wild Heart, Judith Larner Lowry writes about her dedication to taming native plants for her California garden. “The plants of this place are my key to opening the way to the secrets of soil and water, change and stability, and enduring human use. California hazel grows here and there throughout my garden. A nut-bearing shrub with great ornamental potential, it can be pruned to the gardener’s taste. Its nuts, should the squirrels and birds spare you some, are easy to like. Sometimes its spare beauty in late winter, male catkins dangling pale chartreuse, buds like beads strung along angular twigs, is enough in itself.” Lowry uses her horticultural skills to prune the branches into an elegant horizontal form.

Indigenous people harvested their fair share of the nuts before other creatures came to feast. USDA reports: “Many Native American tribes of the Pacific North west and California used the nuts as a food source, picking them in late summer to early autumn, storing them until fully ripe, and then roasting or eating them raw .... The nuts were also used as a trade item among tribes because of their sporadic distribution.” To maintain productivity, Native Americans burned the bushes to the ground every 5 years or so. California hazel resprouts naturally following a wildfire from woody rhizomes that grow about six inches beneath the ground. Hazel wood was fashioned into arrows, fishing traps, hooks, and spoons. The flexible stems were made into ropes and used in basketry.

Lowry recounts the childhood memory Lucy Young of the Wailaki tribe

shared with Murphey. Born at the start of the California Gold Rush, Lucy and her sisters were repeatedly captured by white settlers as slaves and repeatedly escaped. Hidden one night in a thicket of sword ferns, Lucy heard the faint tapping sound of her mother shelling hazelnuts all night long.

Botanically labeled Corylus cornuta var. californica, California hazel is also called western beaked hazelnut. In “Native Plant/Western beaked hazelnut” (Seattle Times 9/5/2007), Cynthia Spurgeon writes: “You don’t need any special conditions if you want to include hazelnuts in your garden. They tolerate most soils, and do well in moist or dry areas. Periodic removal of suckers will result in a nice multistemmed, open-growing shrub or small tree, somewhat like a vine maple, or if you are establishing a natural area for wildlife, just let the suckers grow.” Other experts note California hazel prefers somewhat shady spots with good drainage and adequate rainfall. Finding the proper spot for it in a Danville or Alamo garden might prove difficult.

In natural settings, California hazel forms thickets providing cover as well as food for wildlife. Squirrels, chipmunks, racoons, deer, jays, grouse, and pheasants feast on the nuts. Calflora estimates California hazel hosts 45 species of butterflies and moths.

Nuts borne by all members of the genus Corylus are called hazelnuts. Why are commercially grown hazelnuts also known as filberts? Many sources suggest filbert honors the French Saint Philibert of Jumieges who died in 684 AD. Philibert’s feast day is celebrated on August 20th (old style August 22nd), about the time filberts are harvested. The French word for filbert, however is “aveline.” The botanical name for the tree most utilized commercially is Corylus avellana. The species name acknowledges the Italian towns Avella and Avellino where hazelnuts were cultivated in ancient times.

California hazel is resistant to the Eastern Filbert Blight (EFB) that dev astates non-native species. The fungus causing the disease is widespread in eastern North America where related native species - Corylus americana and Corylus cornuta - shrug off the effects. Nuts borne by our native hazels, unfortunately, are much smaller than those their non-native cousins produce. Working to solve the problem, researchers at Oregon State University have released several cultivars of Corylus avellana. One named ‘Jefferson’ has superior resistance to EFB, high yields, and large, tasty nuts.

Hometownhelpfromyourlocalandpersonaltechnologyexperts,since2001.

VALLEY VIGNETTE

By Beverly Lane

THE FIRST PEOPLE -- LIVING IN THE VALLEY

“This valley finished, we entered a beau tiful valley of considerable width and good level land, well covered with grass, with good arroyos well grown with alders, cottonwood, laurels, roses, and other trees not known to us… It is a very suitable place for a good mission, having good lands, much water, firewood and many heathen.” ~ Father Juan Crespi in the San Ramon Valley, March 31 and April 1, 1772.

An exhibit featuring the valley’s First People focusing on California and the San Ramon Valley is now on display at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley.

In the 1700s, the local Bay Miwok and Ohlone homelands included Mt. Diablo and the surrounding valleys and hills, an area which modern residents know well. But, the vegetation, waterways, and animal life were very different in the pre-Spanish era.

the Bay Area with honesty and integrity since 1973

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Spanish and American writers described California’s native environment in diaries, letters, and histories. The Bay Miwok area in central and eastern Contra Costa County covered several ecological zones, from the river and delta, to the mountain. A lavish array of riparian trees and shrubs, including bigleaf maple, box elder, willows, bay laurel, cottonwood, and black walnut trees, grew near the water. Oak and foothill woodlands included oaks (of several varieties), buckeye, and grey pines. Chapparal appeared on the sunny, south and west-facing slopes. Perennial, native bunchgrasses once dominated the Indian grasslands, leaving the landscape green well into the summer. Bulbs such as brodiaea and soaproot and various seed plants (clarkia, red maids, buttercups, and chia) covered the landscape.

According to botanist Glenn Keator: “Hundreds of different kinds of annual, perennial, and bulb-bearing wildflowers occur between bunchgrasses, providing a magic carpet of ever-changing color from March through early June.”

Eighteenth century waterways were very different from today’s controlled channels and Indians lived near the creeks to take advantage of the many food resources. Steelhead migrated up the San Ramon Creek until flood control structures were built. Tatcan Indians lived next to the San Ramon Creek, Volvons were in the Marsh Creek headwaters of Mt. Diablo, and Julpun lived around Marsh Creek as it flowed to the delta. Walnut Creek was navigable to Pacheco until the 1860s, and Mt. Diablo Creek went across Concord, east to west until Americans diverted it. This Creek had several Chupcan villages along its edges.

Marshes bordered the Carquinez Strait and the Delta, providing a variety of fish and bird foods for the Bay Miwok. The marshes are still visible, although much diminished in size. In Antioch a marsh once extended nearly to today’s Wilbur Ave. and evidence of Indian habitation continues to be found nearby.

Animal, fish, and bird life provided a cornucopia of food for the people. There were herds of elk, antelope, and deer, salmon in season, and shellfish on the shore. Birds of every sort, from ducks to eagles, were described by one writer as “darkening the sky” when they migrated. Grizzly bears, mountain lions, and coyote were often mentioned.

The Indians managed the landscape by regular burning, pruning, and digging. They set fires seasonally and purposefully. Fires ensured that seed harvests would be plentiful, killed disease organisms in decaying debris, and kept woodlands open. After fires, new sprouts proliferated providing food for elk, antelope, deer, and people.

Basket weavers actively burned, pruned, and harvested their plant materials including sedge, bulrush, redbud, and ferns. Grazing and browsing animals affected the grassland resources as well. Some brodeias were known as Indian potatoes and served as an important and nourishing food source. As the women dug these bulbs, they would subdivide and leave immature bulbs for next year. To the Spanish, the land may have looked untouched, but this was not the case.

Euro-American settlement brought innumerable environmental changes. The grasses which grow on today’s hills are exotic annuals (wild oats, Italian rye, foxtails, bromes, and fescue) which came on the coats of cattle and sheep brought to California after 1769. Large creeks and streams have been altered by County Flood Control to protect modern residents from floods, and marshes drained to facilitate development. And, of course, development of agriculture, cities, and highways have affected the animals, fish, and bird life which were here in the eighteenth century

The Indians thrived for thousands of years, living softly on the land where we live today. Most of the natural world which they enjoyed has given way to twenty-first century urban and landscaped developments.

Robinson Jeffers’ poem “Hands” speaks to what could be learned from this transition:

“Inside a cave in a narrow canyon near Tassajara / The vault of rock is painted with hands, / A multitude of hands in the twilight, a cloud of men’s palms, no more, / No other picture. There’s no one to say / Whether the brown shy quiet people who are dead intended / Religion or magic, or made their tracings / In the idleness of art; but over the division of years these careful / Signs-manual are now like a sealed message / Saying, Look: we also were human; we had hands, not paws. / All hail. / You people with the cleverer hands, our supplanters / In the beautiful country; enjoy her a season, her beauty, and come down / And be supplanted; for you also are human.”

Sources: Amme, David, “An Introduction to California’s Native Grasses,” Manzanita, 1997; Heizer, Robert E. & Albert B. Elasasser, The Natural World of the California Indians. 1980; Keator, Glenn, Plants of the East Bay Parks, 1994, pp. 13-15, 21-13. (Niwot, Colo: Roberts Rinehart Publishers), 1994, pp. 13-15, 21-23; Roderick, Wayne, “Indian Uses of Native Plants,” by Pat McRae, Manzanita, 1999. Drawings by Al Greger (1997), Louis Choris (1816)

ALAMO IMPROVEMENT ASSOCIATION (AIA)

By Roger Smith, President

GREAT CALIFORNIA SHAKE OUT - GET READY!

The Great California “Shake-out” drill will occur at 10:20AM on Thursday, October 20th. What we do now will determine our quality of life after our next big earthquake. Are you prepared to survive and recover quickly? Participating is a great way for your family or organization to be prepared. Register at www.shakeout. org/california/register

During the Drill, wherever you are at that moment— you should Drop, Cover, and Hold On as if there were a major earthquake occurring, and stay in this position for at least 60 seconds.

WHAT ARE CONTRA COSTA COUNTY’S EMERGENCY RESPONSE RESOURCES?

The Office of Emergency Services is responsible for planning, outreach, and training as it relates to Disaster Management and Emergency Preparedness.

In the event of a major disaster, the CCCounty Warning System will send out alerts and post regular updates on their website. Public Access television and radio stations, KCBS-740 AM and KGO 810 AM will broadcast ongoing status reports. The public can also call 211 or visit www.co.contra-costa. ca.us/2269/Emergency-Information.

To receive Emergency Alerts, sign up for CCCounty’s Community Warning System at https://cwsalerts.com/coco, www.cococaer.org, or www.CalOES. ca.gov

Prepare yourself, your family, and work with your community to prepare to evacuate early. Visit www.firedepartment.org/our-district/fire-and-lifesafety/fire-evacuation-plans for helpful information.

Gather up an emergency kit. Find out what you need at www.RedCross. org/get-help/how-to-prepare-for-emergencies/survival-kit-supplies.html and www.FEMA.gov/press-release/20210318/how-build-kit-emergencies.

For a digital version of “Residents Guide to Wildfire Preparedness and Evacuation,” visit any of these three sites www.cccfpd.org, https://cwsalerts. com/coco/, www.cocosheriff.org

NINTH ANNUAL “AUTOS OF ALAMO” FESTIVAL WAS OUR VERY BEST YET!

A big “Thank You” to all of our Sponsors and Committee Members: Gwen Gallagher, Sandy Fink, Connie Burroughs, Valerie Schooley, Rick Lyding, Jim Wadsworth, Tim Fiebig, Lou Plummer, JoAnne Jacobson and all of our great volunteers -- including all owners that present ed their prized autos. A special “Thanks” to those attending and enjoying a great family evening.

GUESS THE WEIGHT OF THE GREAT PUMPKIN AT THE ALAMO FARMER’S MARKET

During October the Harvest Festival returns with the Great Pumpkin, Decorating Contests, and more.

Stop by the Alamo Farmer’s Market for fall fruits and vegetables, fresh fish, eggs, and dairy, as well as BBQ, and lumpia. There is something for everyone!

The Market is open rain or shine on Sundays from 9AM – 2PM in Alamo Plaza, off of Danville Blvd., near Bank of America.

AIA SERVING OUR COMMUNITY

Now in its 67th year, AIA, a non-profit 501 (c)(3) organization, has the longest history of serving our community and helping shape it into “the place where we love to live!” Visit www.AlamoCA.org for information on AIA, articles of interest to local residents, membership forms, and more.

Visit www.AlamoVision2040.org for more information, a citizen’s survey, and community poll.

ESTATE PLANNING IN THE AFTERMATH OF PROPOSITION 19

By Robert J. Silverman, Esq.

Minimizing or avoiding potentially detrimental tax consequences during life and upon death is a significant component of estate planning. Optimal estate planning may involve gifting of real estate to your children during your life and/or upon your death – typically via one of several kinds of Trusts. The passage of Proposition 19 represented an important new tax development in this realm.

The new Prop 19 rules became effective on February 16, 2021, relating, in pertinent part, to the succession of real estate ownership. In summary, the law largely eliminated previously valuable California property tax reassessment exclusions for real estate transfers - lifetime gifts, testamentary gifts, and/or sales, between parents and children.

Essentially, property tax reassessment will occur as a result of all parentto-child (or child-to-parent) property transfers other than one’s primary residence. The only exception to this is for fractional transfers of properties that are owned by a business entity, such as a Limited Liability Company or Corporation; “entity rules” are substantially different (and beyond the scope of this article) than those involving properties owned by individuals or their living trusts.

Fortunately, a reassessment exclusion still applies to transfers of primary residences between parents and children, albeit in a limited manner. I’ll explain with an example. Suppose that in 1985, you paid $400,000 for your residence, and its current value is $1 million. You decide to gift the home to your daughter. Under pre-Prop 19 rules, the transfer was exempt from reassessment - your daughter would pay the same property taxes you had been paying, based on your home’s (low) assessed value. That assessed value is derived from your $400,000 purchase price plus very modest annual inflation adjustments; it is not based on the home’s $1 million current market value.

Under Prop 19, in order for the transfer to be exempt from reassessment (subject to a cap based on a maximum home value), your daughter must move into the home and make it her primary residence within one year. If she does not do so, she would then owe substantially higher property taxes calculated by the new (reassessed) value -- based on the home’s current market value.

For many children, moving into the home within a year of receiving the transferred property will either be undesirable or unfeasible. But, for situations in which it could work well for a child, Prop 19-related planning can make a big difference in the amount of the child’s property tax bill, particularly for a home the child might own for many years.

Another important planning consideration, which often overlaps with Prop 19 planning, is whether or not to distribute your home to one child vs. multiple (e.g. all) children upon your passing. Note that your trust can potentially be structured to leave other assets to the children who are not receiving the home; thus, equalizing distributions to each of the children. I plan to write an article soon about that specific topic.

Of course, other critical tax (e.g. potential capital gains tax) and nontax aspects should be factored into anyone’s decision about: a) whether or not to make a lifetime gift of real estate to children; b) if so, the optimal timing of such gift; and c) whether it would be desirable or helpful to gift such property to an irrevocable trust for the benefit of a child rather than leaving it outright to the child, with no strings attached.

Before making any major property gifting or sale decisions, you should consult with your trusted professional advisors who can help analyze what makes the most sense in your particular situation.

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

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

FAMILY AND WEALTH COLLIDE

By Peter T. Waldron, Managing Partner of Waldron Partners

“It didn’t matter how big our house was; it mattered that there was love in it.” ~ Peter Buffett

When it comes to including family members in your business or wealth management, there are several things to keep in mind. To begin with, family governance and fundamental beliefs should be used when making de cisions. This will ensure that everyone is on the same page and that any problems will be addressed fairly and equally.

It is also important to remember that not all children are interested in or suited for a career in the family business. Many would prefer a more tradition al job and to live a more “normal” life. That is okay! There is no need to force anyone to do something they do not want to do.

Create a family culture of communication and trust so that everyone feels like they are a part of the team. It is essential to support open lines of communi cation. It is also an innovative idea to have regular meetings when everyone can come together and provide updates. This entails discussing your plans with your family members and listening to their input on how they want to be involved. It is also critical to set clear expectations and responsibilities within the business or wealth management strategy.

If you are not careful, some of your children may come to resent you if they believe that you’re giving more responsibility and/or money to their siblings than them. You should do whatever possible to prevent creating an appearance of unfairness – meaning all your children should be given the same treatment; this applies whether they help with the family business or not.

Another mistake families often make is giving their children too much money too soon. This can be harmful to their development and lead to problems down the road. Aim to give your children money in a way that encourages them to work for it and learn how to manage it responsibly.

If family dynamics influence business decisions, it can create issues. This can turn into a bigger problem if members of your family disagree about how the company should function or how wealth should be divided. To prevent this, have transparent rules in place that explain how these types of disagreements will be managed among your family members.

In the end, incorporating family members into your business or wealth management strategy might help foster unity and solidarity within your family. However, it is critical to do so in a balanced and fair manner that takes all your children into account. Following the guidelines above will help ensure that your family is well-equipped for success now and in the future.

“The strength of a family, like the strength of an army, lies in its loyalty to each other.” ~ Mario Puzo

To schedule a complimentary review of your financial situation, please contact me at 925-708-7397 or email peter.waldron@lfg.com.

Art continued from front page

favorite meal was Fettuccine Carbonara, which I would prepare for my parents’ dinner guests.”

When Mel retired, he still wanted to teach and invited a few of his former students to work with him as studio as sistants. The original plan, when the Foundation was established in 2017, included having Mel mentor student artists without the means to support their craft. Following his death in 2018, the Foundation turned to working “in focused ways to create pockets of impact to contribute to the ripple effect and sustaining vision of creating access to an arts education for all youth.” Since 2019, when grant-giving began, the Foundation has contributed to more than 20 youth arts programs through its Arts Education Initiative that recognizes arts education as “a primary need.”

The Foundation’s Teaching Artist Opportunity offers funding to a CSUEB art student who commits to teaching art classes at one of the Hayward Promise Neighborhoods schools. The Promise Neighborhoods initiative is dedicated to improving the educational and developmental outcomes of children and youth in our nation’s most distressed school districts. Cynthia Syriani, the Foundation’s inaugural grantee writes: While working with third-grade teacher Jocelyn Carlson, I realized that lesson plans are subjective and only basic outlines, but that the lesson itself is created through teacher and student dialog. When students found themselves solving problems within their work, they felt accomplished and energized for the next suggestion. Learning this way allowed each student to progress at their own pace.” She notes: “Upon entering this scholarship opportunity, I knew I had an interest in becoming a teacher, but now that I have had an opportunity to facilitate a lesson from scratch, I know [arts] education is my calling.”

Colton Thomas, winner of the Mel Ramos Award at CSUEB's 2022 Rising Student Juried Exhibition. Photo courtesy of the Ramos Family Foundation.

This spring, the Foundation provided two awards for the CSUEB Rising Student Juried Exhibition. Berenice Martinez received the Leta Ramos Award for her two photographic portraits of her daughter. Colton Thomas won the Mel Ramos Award for his thickly textured acrylic on canvas painting.

The Foundation’s collaboration with the Crocker Art Museum in Sacramento in launching a Virtual Arts Education Center will broaden the reach of arts education. Mallorie Marsh, Associate Director of Education for the Crocker Museum, explains: “The Crocker’s school and teacher programs team has a long history of providing rigorous programming in visual arts education. Prior to the resource center, much of that work manifested as synchronous programs for in-person attendees. With support of the Ramos Family Foundation to build this center, that work becomes transparent, accessible, and usable for students and teachers far and wide. Visitors to the site can access and share content from their home or classroom, on their own time, providing critical flexibility in a post-Covid classroom. Furthermore, teachers can do more than consume content, with the ‘submit’ function of the center, they can share and publish their own curriculum work and lesson ideas, strengthening the professional field of arts education.”

Scott A. Shields, Ted and Melza Barr Chief Curator & Associate Director, adds: “Among the artists to come out of the Sacra mento region, Mel Ramos is one of the best known. To have the Foundation involved in the Virtual Education Center feels meant to be.” Born in Sacramento in 1935, Mel is recognized as one of the founders of the Pop Art Movement. He studied under Wayne

Peter T. Waldron, California Insurance License #0E47827, is a registered representative of Lincoln Financial Advisors, a broker/dealer, member SIPC, and offers investment advisory services through Sagemark Consulting, a division of Lincoln Fi nancial Advisors Corp., a registered investment advisor, Waldron Partners, 3201 Danville Blvd., Suite 190 PO Box 528, Alamo, CA 94507. Waldron Partners is not an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors. Insurance is offered through Lincoln Marketing and Insurance Agency, LLC and Lincoln Associates Insurance Agency, Inc., and other fine companies. This material is for use with the general public and is designed for informational or educational purposes only. It is not intended as legal, tax, or direct investment advice. Lincoln Financial Advisors does not offer legal or tax advice. CRN-4952643-091522. Advertorial

Gabriel Navar is the Ramos Family Foundation’s 1st Artistin-Residence. Photo courtesy of the Ramos Family Foundation.

THE EYE OPENER

By Gregory Kraskowsky, O.D., Alamo Optometry MYOPIA (NEAR-SIGHTEDNESS)

For all parents and kids who are near-sighted, let me see if this sounds familiar. At every annual exam during childhood and adolescence, your distance vision continues to decline and it is necessary to update your glasses and/or contacts. This has been an unfortunate reality for many patients, and the reality is the likelihood is growing. 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 grows 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 likely the child will be. However, environment is playing a more significant role. We have become a very near-point society due to the advent of computers, laptops, smartphones, and iPads. This is how we conduct business, school, and personal time. COVID has exacerbated this trend but is not the cause; the development has been gaining traction the past few decades. 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 computer use that industrialized countries do, their rates for myopia are around 5%.

Thankfully, there are things we can do to help. The main strategy at our office involves specialized contact lenses called corneal refractive therapy (CRT) lenses. CRT lenses are gas permeable lenses that are worn overnight to correct vision so that no glasses or contacts are needed. 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 lenses redistribute the fluid within the cornea, no tissue is moved, altered, or affected in any way. There are many other contact lens options available, but I choose to use these lenses because they are FDA approved and the studies were conducted on children and teenagers. Another treatment option is to add Atropine drops either as an adjunct to the contact lenses or as a stand-alone treatment if the child is too young to wear the contacts. The goal of therapy is to eliminate the need for daytime glasses or contacts and to reduce the annual myopia progression by 50%. At this point there is no cure for this epidemic, but these are the best tools we have now 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 wrong. 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 their prescription. There also needs to be buy-in to wearing them 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 contact the office with any further questions; 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. For more information, visit our website at www.alamooptometry.com, and join us on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @Alamo Optometry. Advertorial

FACIAL REJUVENATION FOR THE HOLIDAYS

By Dr. Barbara Persons, MD, FACS

I was in the checkout line at a local drugstore when a gal next to me was talking on the phone. She said, “My sister needs a facelift and a laser peel.” She then looked over at me, and we both started laughing. You see, I was wearing scrubs with my John Muir Health-Walnut Creek Medical Center badge saying Barbara L. Persons, MD, FACS Plastic Surgeon.

We went on to laugh some more and also to talk about the basic concepts of facial rejuvenation while checking out. You would not believe how many men and women around you have had facial rejuvenation surgery. When facial rejuvenation is performed correctly, no one will ever know. It’s not your great grandmother’s windswept look or the slick advertisements of a style that does not last and has many complications.

My patients seek the five elements of facial rejuvenation intuitively without knowing the terms. They seek improvement, not out of vanity or because they want to look 22-years-old again. They want to be perceived as naturally vibrant, happy, confident, and whole. As a natural healer and hypnotherapist who came to me for eyelid rejuvenation said, “Our bodies are the vessels through which we project our personalities.” It is okay to want to look better. Today, however, in my opinion, we are at times using fillers, Botox, facials, and light therapies because we are afraid to go ahead and fix issues with minor surgery.

Five elements come together to create a youthful face (with naturally balanced bone structure and volume, skin and fat in the right position, no sun damage, and minimal scarring), fix a broken face, or create the beautiful look the patient envisions.

The five elements are structure, volume, support, stress expressions, and skin.

Structure: The temples, cheeks, chin, and nose should form a pleasant balance. We lose bone volume with age, especially in women, which can lead to a weak jawline, loss of cheek projection, sad-looking eyes, temporal hollowing, and recessed nasal folds.

Volume: The overall volume of the face is reduced, and temples begin to hollow. The rounded curves and heart shape of the upper face volume give way to a more squared look as the volume is both lost and “moves south.” Some patients may want to consider fat injections, which use fat harvested from the patient’s own body which can then be re-injected to enhance facial fullness, fill creases, or build up shallow contours.

Support: The ligaments of the face, superficial muscular aponeurotic system fascia beneath the skin, and deep layers of the skin sag with age. It can cause heavy eyes, tear troughs, sagging cheeks, nasal folds, marionette lines, jowls, and extra neck skin.

Stress Expressions: These include forehead creases, glabella eleven lines, crow’s feet, bunny nose, smokers’ lines, and the downturn of the mouth. A balanced approach to addressing these issues is vital.

Skin: Pigmentation, fine lines, wrinkles, red spots, scars, and laxity. These signs of aging are especially noticeable around the eyes and mouth.

To start the process of facial rejuvenation, I examine my patients’ faces. I immedi ately see what procedures will create or recreate the beautiful normal that they desire.

Many of you know I have had facial surgery following a nearly fatal accident. At 25, I was hit by a semi-truck whose driver had a seizure from drinking and not taking his seizure medication. After 18 surgeries, bone grafts, implants, titanium plates, and screws, I still work on the five elements every year. I want a beautiful normal. I have personal experience with the products I use on my patients.

When I see you, I will be honest about what will make the most signifi cant and excellent improvement in your face over time, with the least risk, and within your budget. I will make sure you are within your comfort zone, doing what I do best, which is to perform surgery and procedures. Using my hands, my heart, and my artistic sense, our private surgery center in Lafayette is one of my most perfect places on this earth where I can make a real, positive difference in your life.

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 925-283-4012 or drpersons@ personsplasticsurgery.com

Meet Dr. Yvonne Hyland & Her Family

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

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

Monday - Thursday and the first two Saturday’s

Meet Dr. Kiranjot Dyal

Dr. Kiranjot Dyal graduated from the University of California, Davis, with a Bachelor of Science in Molecular and Cellular Biology. Thereafter, she attended Western University of Health Sciences, College of Dental Medicine to earn her degree in Dental Medicine (D.M.D.) and further extended her studies by completing a general practice residency at UCLA- Harbor Medical Center, where she earned the “Resident of the Year” accolade. Dr. Dyal’s passion for growth in her dental skills shows as she continues educating herself through various classes and up to date courses.

Dr. Dyal’s goal as a dental provider is to provide compassionate care for her patients and make them feel as stress-free as possible in the dental chair. She believes that knowledge is power and understanding what treatment is needed, why it's necessary, and how it can be prevented in the future is extremely important in bettering the overall oral health of her patients and the general public. Dr. Dyal strives to build a trusting and genuine relationship with her patients and their family and friends to create a comfortable dental home for the community she treats.

4 INCREDIBLE BENEFITS OF IV NUTRITION THERAPY

By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

We all know that nutrition is essential to our health. However, as people age, vital nutrients in the body diminish mostly due to impaired digestion, lack of absorption, and toxicity. Unfortunately, our body can only absorb about 20-30% of the nutrients from pills and supplements. That is why intravenous nutrition (IV nutrition) is used to help people with nutrient deficiency symptoms.

WHAT IS IV NUTRITION THERAPY AND HOW DOES IT WORK?

IV nutrition therapy involves injecting a potent combination of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients into the bloodstream. This procedure usually takes place in a medical office or under the supervision of a skilled medical expert. Nutrients injected directly into the circulatory system are promptly distributed to the cells that need them; the intravenous technique is the fastest way to administer nutrients throughout the body. Because IV nutri tion provides various benefits for the receiver, it can be tailored to meet the specific needs of each individual.

BENEFITS OF IV NUTRITION THERAPY

1. Helps Treat Nutrient Deficiencies

You are what you absorb, not necessarily what you eat! Malabsorption is common, and is aggravated by stress, surgery, GI issues, poor quality food, and drug and alcohol consumption which all can affect the extent to which nutrients are assimilated. Virtually all metabolic and developmental processes that take place in the body require micronutrients, and strong evidence suggests that subtle vitamin, mineral, and antioxidant deficiencies can contribute to degen erative conditions such as arthritis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes.

Many people are prone to having a low amount of essential electrolytes and vitamins. It is common for athletes, weekend warriors, and post-partiers to be depleted as well as dehydrated. IV therapy provides vitamins and electrolytes to reduce the symptoms of dehydration, such as fatigue, cramping, nausea, headaches, and thirst.

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In many cases,

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Because the IV technique is the fastest way to administer nutrients into the body, it can help treat the symptoms created by low nutrient levels, including electrolyte, vitamin, mineral, and amino acid deficiencies.

2. Promotes Weight Loss

As we age, our body’s metabolism naturally slows down. IV weight loss therapy helps your body counteract this natural slowdown by delivering a care fully-formulated blend of energy and metabolism-boosting vitamins into your body.

Our IV formula contains a unique blend of vitamins, minerals, and lipotropics that can help accelerate your metabolism. The lipotropics in this formula are compounds that help your body break down fat naturally. The added benefit of lipotropics is to improve your body’s ability to metabolize fat, preventing buildup of fat in the liver which helps your body remove excess fat much more quickly. In addition to fat burning compounds, our “skinny” IV contains energy-boosting ingredients such as magnesium, B-complex vitamins, and vitamin C that can help combat fatigue and give you energy to conquer your day.

Our IV treatment for weight loss is designed to help you burn fat. However, this therapy is not a magic cure-all. Instead, this treatment is ideal and most effective in conjunction with healthy eating and regular exercise.

3. Boosts Immunity

Sometimes your immune system needs a boost to fight infections. Whether you have an infection from a virus, a cold, or the flu, having an illness puts extra demands on your body during the recovery process. Your body needs more vitamins, minerals, aminos, and hydration than usual to fight off an infec tion. Hydration is an essential part of recovering from illness, but it’s not always easy to drink a lot of fluids when sick, especially if you have nausea or a sore throat. IV treatments are administered directly into your bloodstream for maximum absorption and fast effect.

Our “shore you up” immunity IV will get you back on your feet and give you the protection you need to stay strong and healthy. Lysine and an extra boost of zinc to stop viruses in their tracks. In addition, a high dose of vitamin C reduces inflammation and boosts immunity, B vitamins for energy and detox, and a mix of minerals for healing and immunity.

4. Detox and Anti-Aging

IV therapy naturally detoxifies your body by removing heavy metals and free radicals that cause damage to your cells. Heavy metals such as mercury, lead, cadmium, aluminum, and arsenic exist everywhere and can be found in food, water, and the environment. Therefore, human exposure to heavy metals is unavoidable.

IV vitamin C therapy, alpha lipoic acid, and glutathione help eliminate toxic metals, prevent cell damage, and slow the effects of aging. Your body can process heavy metals naturally in small amounts, but overexposure can lead to heavy metal toxicity and an excess of free radical activity, called oxidative stress, that causes cell damage. Over time, this added damage ages your body and contributes to fatigue, slow metabolism, and damage to your DNA.

Detox IV treatments help escort heavy metals out of the body and neutralize the oxidative stress that contributes to cell damage, aging, and changes in your metabolism.

RECEIVING IV NUTRITION THERAPY AT ALIGN HEALING CENTER

At Align, we will only provide your body the nutrition it requires based on your lifestyle and needs. When you make an appointment we will take the time to listen to you and learn about your health issues. Our skilled and qualified medical team will provide your IV nutrition. Each standard IV session takes place in less than an hour and helps to contribute to your health and wellness goals with each treatment. You will feel better and healthier thanks to these fantastic IV therapy benefits. Combined with a healthy lifestyle, a good diet, and regular exercise, you’ll have real life-changing experiences that will ensure your well-being. If you are interested in exploring what IV therapy can do for you, call Align Healing Center for a complimentary consultation at 925-362-8283 or check us out at AlignHealingCenter.com.

YOUR PERSONAL NUTRITIONIST HOW MUCH PROTEIN DO I REALLY NEED EACH DAY?

By Linda Michaelis RD, MS

I have evaluated many food diaries that clients bring in. I often see that they are not consuming enough protein. I let them know that this easily explains why they feel hungry all the time and also have endless cravings for sweets.

The question I often get is, “How much protein do I really need to reach my weight loss goal, as well as build muscle, and feel my best?”

I explain the food label is upside down. Protein is the last item listed on the label, where it should be the first. It is the most important food group and is very easily overlooked. Protein is expressed in grams as if we are on the metric system, rather than in ounces or pounds which typically is how we purchase protein in our markets. We need to know how many grams of protein is equal to an ounce. Let me use my favorite example: the “gold standard” cereal, Kashi Go Lean. Kashi Go Lean has 13 grams of protein in a 1 cup serving. One ounce of protein is equal to 7 grams, so with one serving you are getting almost 2 oz. of protein.

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for protein is established by the Food and Nutrition Board of the National Academy of Sciences. It is based on your bodyweight.

It is suggested that you consume 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight for a healthy adult. This is roughly 54 grams daily for a 150 pound female or 71 grams daily for a 195 pound male. This calculation does not factor in exercise and I find it overestimates protein needs for overweight or obese people. If you are active and/or workout often, this amount of protein is far too low. I always recommend to veer on the higher side of protein intake.

I create personalized protein recommendations for my clients based on their lifestyle, age, exercise, and health concerns. I suggest that protein should be distributed mostly during the day as opposed to eating a large traditional protein meal at night. This eating style keeps you more satisfied, prevents

blood sugar fluctuations, and cravings for sweets. I educate my clients that protein takes several hours to digest and creates a fullness that you will not get from a carbohydrate-based meal.

When I work with a new client I first set up a meal plan for them listing specific amounts of protein to consume at each meal and snack. I teach them how to make sure they are getting at least 2 ounces of protein at breakfast, such as Kashi Go Lean cereal, a whole egg, egg whites with veggies, and 100% whole wheat toast, or even oatmeal and Greek yogurt.

I make it a point to create a list of protein snacks that are portable and tasty such as beef jerky, portion sized almonds, a cup of cottage cheese, bean soup, peanut butter with celery or an apple, or vaccuum-packed flavored tuna or salmon pouches.

I make sure that lunch contains at least 4-6 oz. of protein along with a healthy grain and a cup of veggies and put together a yummy list of lunches that can be taken to work or eaten at a favorite lunch spot. I encourage parents to make sure that their kids are eating protein-based lunches that prevent them from coming home from school famished and snacking all afternoon.

Clients are always surprised to hear that for dinner we do not need protein if we have had the amounts of protein suggested in prior meals and snacks. The feedback I get is that when dinner comes around they are not as hungry as they use to be and are good with less protein at night.

Many people say that trainers tell them that they need more protein and recommend protein shakes. I think protein shakes are great for pre or post workouts, but often are not filling enough to last for several hours. Contrary to popular belief, studies have shown that consuming more protein than recommended does not lead to increase in muscle size or strength. There is a limit to the rate at which protein can be synthesized into muscle and muscle size is determined by genetic makeup and training program -- not by how much protein one eats.

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

concerns and see how I may help you.

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Thiebaud at Sacramento State College. In 1963, Mel exhibited in a Los Angeles group art show with Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein. His work is part of the permanent collections of many museums including the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York, the New York Museum of Modern Art, the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Los Angeles.

Lial A. Jones, Mort and Marcy Friedman Director and CEO of the Crocker, writes: “I was pleased to know both Mel and Leta. When we opened the Teel Family Pavilion on 10.10.10, I remember running into an excited Leta in the galleries. She was thrilled to see that we were maturing into the kind of place she’d always hoped we would be.” In 2012, the Crocker held a retrospective exhibition of Mel’s work. Describing the art of both of her parents, Rochelle writes: “Their work was not driven by an intent to make a statement. Rather it was meant to recharge your creative battery and fill your joy tank with humor and amusement.”

Mentored by Mel as a student and working with him thereafter as a longtime friend, Gabriel Navar is the first Ramos Family Foundation Artist-in-Resi dence. He writes: “Working in Mel’s studio is always a blessing! Of course, I miss Mel and can feel his presence. The only thing I dislike about going there is having to leave!” When Gabe embarked on his own teaching career, Mel shared his lesson plans and syllabi. Now that he’s been teaching since 2001, Navar has made the courses his own. “What I most want readers to understand is that Mel and Leta were and continue to be generous and passionate about art for themselves and their communities. They simply lived and breathed art and education in a caring, disciplined, giving, generous, and humble way.”

Navar helped Mel clear out his office when Ramos retired. That included his taxidermized lioness. “We tied it up, secured it, standing, on the back of his truck. We drove it from campus back to his studio in Oakland. People in their cars driving on Highway 580 were fascinated, exhilarated, dumfounded!” The lioness has found a new home in the collection of the student-run Petaluma Wildlife Museum.

Extensive research confirms the importance of making arts education ac cessible to all. The National Association of Elementary School Principles posts: “Arts Integration Improves School Culture and Student Success" (1/12/2018). The article notes: “Art infuses joy and student voice into daily instruction,” and asserts: “Teachers who embed arts into teaching strategies say that being able to see what students are thinking - via creative expression, rather than standardized testsreminds them of why they chose this profession.”

In “The Benefits of Arts Education for K-12 Students” ( US News , 8/30/2022), Andrew Warner cites numerous experts. The Dana Founda tion, specializing in neuroscience research, posits that “training in the arts stimulates and strengthens the brain’s attention system.” Camille Farrington, Managing Director and Senior Research Associate University of Chicago Consortium on School Research, remarks: “Art immensely improves the lives of young people. It’s a core part of being a human being and human history and culture.” Evidence found in the oldest known cave paintings indicates humans have valued creative artistic expression for more than 35,000 years.

The Mel and Leta Ramos Family Foundation is ready to welcome volun teers with fundraising experience, technical skills, and/or enthusiasm for arts education. Joining the Circle of Donors with much appreciated dona tions of any amount furthers the Foundation's mission. Donors of $200 or more receive thank you gifts. Gifts and invitations to the Circle of Friends recognition event in December honor $1,000 contributions. Go to https:// ramosfamilyfoundation.org to learn more and get involved.

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Huey she writes, “As Ozark’s successor, Early Alert Canines has again blessed us with a loving, energetic, Diabetic Alert Dog to help take care of me. He is a cuddle bug and learns quickly. Due to his amazing training at EAC, his alerts are spot-on for both high and low sugars.”

Mark your calendar for the March 11, 2023 EAC Graduation Celebration. The public is invited to meet puppy raisers, dogs, staff, volunteers, and clients and cel ebrate recent placements during the free afternoon event with an evening benefit concert and Gala Fundraiser following.

Tickets for “Comedy for Canines” are available on the EAC website, www. earlyalertcanines.org where you will also find information on fostering, volun teering, donating, and applying for a DAD. Seating is limited to 120 attendees, so don’t delay. Click on the “Get Involved” tab and then “Events.” Prizes include EAC logo merchandise, gift cards, and tickets to the March benefit concert featuring Forejour, a popular Journey & Foreigner cover band.

CPC SENIORS

CPC Seniors is a gathering of senior adults who like to join fellowship, have fun, and make new friends! The group meets in the multi-purpose room of Com munity Presbyterian Church (CPC) located at 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville, from 10:30AM – 12:30PM on the first and third Tuesdays, September to May.

Please join in! The first Tuesday of the month offers BINGO and prizes, while the third Tuesday of the month generally has a variety of presentations or entertainment. A delicious homemade lunch is provided for $4.

For more information, visit www.cpcdanville.org/seniors or call Cyndi Davi at 925-827-5525 x 418.

HELP! VOLUNTEERS NEEDED TO GIVE RIDES

TO SENIORS AND VETERANS

Mobility Matters is a nonprofit agency that gives rides to seniors and veterans in Contra Costa County. Volunteer drivers are needed to escort seniors to medical appointments and grocery shopping. Volunteers must be 25 to 75 years old.

Please call Mobility Matters at (925) 284-2215 for more details. You can learn more about Mobility Matters at www.mobilitymatterscc.com

FAMILY CAREGIVER EDUCATION SERIES

If you’re caring for an elderly family member, Hope Hospice is available to help with a free ed ucation series, now offered as interactive classes through Zoom. Recordings of past events are available on their website too. Register at Hope Hospice.com/family. For questions, call 925-829-8770.

October 13, 10–11:30AM | “End-of-Life Legal and Financial Issues”

When facing the incapacity of a loved one, reliance on professionals will ensure that families receive the most accurate information about options and protection. An elder law attorney will share information about estab lishing powers of attorney, trusts and wills, paying for long-term care, and accessing government assistance programs.

MEALS ON WHEELS VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS

Meals on Wheels (MOW) Diablo Region has many volunteer opportunities to aid seniors in our communities. Do you have a few hours a month to spare?

Become a home meal delivery driver and assist in getting prepared meals to those in need. The Friendly Visitors, Friendly Callers, and Friendly Helpers programs check in on seniors and also can assist them with everyday errands, such as grocery shopping or picking up medications at a local pharmacy.

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

or by calling 925-718-6601. The Danville Rotary Club meets virtually every Monday at noon. Learn more at danvillerotary.org. If you are interested in the Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary Club, contact Daniel Kodam at daniel@dsvrotary.com, call 925-336-0000, or visit dsvrotary.com. The Rotary Club of San Ramon Valley meets via Zoom every Wednesday night from 7PM-8:30PM. For more information, call Valerie Munoz at 925-683-6310 or visit www.sanramonvalleyrotary. com. The Rotary Club of Dougherty Valley/San Ramon meets via Zoom on Wednesdays from 5:30PM-6:40PM. For more information, call 925-998-2924. Rotary Club of San Ramon meets via Zoom every Thursday between noon and 1:15pm. For information, visit sanramonrotary.org, email chris@gallagherwealth.com, or call 925-831-3043.

Family Caregiver Education Series

LONGER LASTING BOTOX?

By Jerome Potozkin, MD

Worldwide, Botox is the most popular nonsurgical treatment. Botox is in a class of drugs known as neuromodulators. When done properly, and by a skilled practitioner, nothing beats Botox. Despite other neuromodulators joining the party, Botox is still the king, commanding about 70% of the market in the United States. The reason Botox has dominated is because it is the gold standard. Having become a household word, none of the other neuromodulators had any significant advantages. That might be about to change…

Botox, like many medical discoveries, happened accidentally. I first learned about Botox to treat wrinkles in the late nineties. I attended a lecture given by Dr. Jean Carruthers at the annual meeting of the American Society for Dermatologic Surgery. Dr. Carruthers, an ophthalmologist, had been using Botox to treat patients with blepharospasm. Blepharospasm is a condition where people have uncontrollably twitchy eyelids. Dr. Carruthers was injecting Botox into the muscles around the eye that cause the twitching. One of her patients came back to her telling her that she was happy that her twitching was better and she was ecstatic that the wrinkles around her eyes were softer. She begged Dr. Carruthers to inject her forehead. As chance would have it, Dr. Carruther’s husband is a dermatologist. Over dinner they discussed Botox and how it could be used to treat a variety of wrinkles. When I returned to my office, my nurses wanted treatment for frown lines. The results were like magic. Thus, a star was born.

Botox is in a class of medicines knows as neuromodulators. Dysport, Xeomin, and Jeuveau are three other similar drugs currently FDA approved up until September of this year. They all work in a similar fashion, sort of like a mute button on a phone. They block the signal from a nerve telling a muscle to contract. Botox doesn’t act as a filler, rather it acts to prevent a muscle from repeatedly folding the skin which creases the skin. Once you stop folding the skin, the lines soften over time. Most people receive treatment about three times per year to maintain the results. One of the biggest downsides of these medicines is that they all last about four months. However, last month the FDA approved Daxxify by Revance Aesthetics. Many in the aesthetic community expected this to happen a year ago and were surprised

when the FDA failed to approve the drug for reasons that were not drug related, but rather a wrinkle in the manufacturing process. Many are excited to use Daxxify for our patients. Daxxify will likely be available in early 2023. As soon as it is available, we will offer this potentially longer-lasting neuromodulator.

If you have been considering Botox or another neuromodulator and want to explore any of these options, we are happy to help. We look forward to seeing you soon.

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