The Valley Sentinel_July2017 by Sentinel Newspapers

Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

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July 2017

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SPOTLIGHT

Devil Mountain Run beneﬁts Discovery Counseling Center Last month, Chris McCrary of Katalyst Events and Marty Breen of Forward Motion presented a check to Discovery Counseling Center for $10,000, the proceeds from this year’s Devil Mt. Run, Danville’s premiere running event. Over 1500 people participated on May 7th in several events, including a Kids’ Fun Run, a 5K Run, a 10K Run, the Buddi Love Dog Mile and the Mile of Truth. In awarding the check, Mr. McCrary noted that this year’s race brought out more participants than in the past five years. The race

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On July 4th,, The Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley once again entertained thousands with their Danville Independence Day Parade. This major fundraiser enables the club to donate tens of thousands of dollars in grants to area nonproﬁts. Seen here from left to right (starting with green neckerchief in back - Benjamin Lin, (Front) - Daniel Armstrong, (Back) - Shane Badcock and (Front) Nathan Lee. All from Troop 805 in Danville. A local tradition not to miss, offering up the best Danville has to offer.

Observing the Western Toad, its eggs, tadpoles and young is a great learning experience for kids roads and trails as it travels to

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The Western Toad (Anaxyrus boreas) is a large toad, native to western North America, from southern Alaska down through the Pacific states to northern Baja Mexico, and east to Montana, Wyoming, and western Colorado. They may reach six inches in length. The subspecies found in Contra Costa County is the California Toad (Anaxyrus boreas halophilus). The white or cream colored dorsal stripe down the middle of the back is diagnostic in adults. Juveniles lack the dorsal stripe and have yellow feet.The body is gray or greenish and covered with dark blotched skin glands that are often tinged with rust. The large, oval parotoid glands are widely separated and slightly larger than the eyelids. They secrete a milky, neurotoxic alkaloid,

bufotoxin, to deter predators. The underside and belly are mottled. Male Western Toads are less blotched and with smoother skin than females. T h e W e s t e r n To a d f re q u e n t s a w i d e va r i e t y of habitats from sea level to 11,800 feet in elevation, including desert streams and springs, grasslands, woodlands, montane forests, and mountain meadows.They are found near ponds, lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and streams throughout Contra Costa County and their range. They are active at night in warm, low-lying areas. In the north and at high elevations, the Western Toad is diurnal, active during the day. During the rainy season, the Western Toad is often encountered on

spawn. Breeding begins as early as December and January in lower-elevation regions, a n d f ro m M a rc h t h ro u g h July in mountainous areas. The Western Toad is sexually mature at two years of age with males breeding every year. Females tend to breed less frequently. The males develop nuptial pads (thickened skin) on their forefeet during the breeding season for grasping the female during their courtship embrace, known as amplexus. Up to 17,000 eggs are laid by the female, stuck together in strands that adhere to vegetation and other objects along the water edges. After hatching, the young undergo rapid metamorphosis in 28

to 45 days. When recently transformed, the young are about one quarter of an inch, and may be encountered in large numbers as they disperse seeking shelter. Western Toads have been recorded reaching twelve years of age. The Western Toad buries itself in loose soil or seeks escape shelter in burrows of

This month’s Special Section:

Senior Services

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See TOAD page 4

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events

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The Valley Sentinel

June 2017

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50 gallery exhibitions and has worked closely with 300 artists. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or (925) 314-3460. Totally Trains-Models And Memorabilia Now–August 7 Tuesday through Saturday, 10am - 1pm; Sunday, 12 - 3pm, closed Mondays. The main layout of the exhibit has two elevations with 4 running trains, scenery, bridges, a trestle, tunnel and a village with a replica of the Museum, the former Southern Pacific Depot. A secondary layout features a number of working accessories. On display are items from three private collections of model trains dating from the early to mid-1900s. $3 - $10. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located in the restored train depot on the corner of 205 Railroad Avenue at the corner of Prospect Avenue in downtown Danville. For more information, call 925-837- 375, or email to srvmuseum@ sbcglobal.net, or visit www. musemsrv.org. Pleasing the Palette - A Visual Feast Now - August 18 The exhibit will showcase original artwork by Bay Area artists on a variety of media, spotlighting artists’ creative interpretations of the theme “Pleasing to the Palette” and displaying the marriage of food and art. The works this year will be judged by Maria Medua, who serves as the director of the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) artists gallery and has organized more than

Sweet n Low–an International Show of Cute Now – August 27 Sweet n Low features artwork from over 130 local, national, and international artists who extend the genre of cute from cuddly and precious to creepy and ironic. From kitsch and Margaret Keane’s Big Eyes, to Japanese anime and contemporary Pop Art, we’re unleashing the roly-poly, goofily-gamboling, saccharinehoneyed creatures on this earth and beyond! $5. Inside the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. More information including full artist list at www.BedfordGallery. org/SweetnLow or call 925295-1415. Chevron Family Theatre Festival July 15, 2017 10am-4pm. This annual event provides the community a day of affordable, high quality family entertainment. The City of Walnut Creek, the Lesher Center for the Arts, the Diablo Regional Arts Association, and San Ramon–based Chevron work closely to transform the Lesher Center and the street in front of the Center into a day-long festival of fun, arts, and entertainment for

Join us for Beth Batchelor’s 100th birthday celebration!

Sunday, July 30

Alamo Women’s Club 1401 Danville Blvd. Alamo 12 Noon - Event begins 1pm - Luncheon RSVP Dale Bridges (925) 876-9710 All day event starts at 12 Noon Entertainment • Music • Fun for All Beth’s art will be on exhibit For more about Beth visit www.bethbatchelor.com

families and visitors. Adults and children can enjoy more than two dozen professional performances. The Festival kicks off at 10:00 am with the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony and then boys and girls can join in the Prince and Princess Parade as it winds around the outside of the Lesher Center for the Arts. Events outside are free; performances inside the Center’s three theatres are just $5 per person and run 30-60 minutes long and are appropriate for all ages. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information call 925-943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter. org. Dixieland Jazz July 15 1:30-4:30pm. On the 3rd Saturday of every month you can enjoy the music of the Devil Mountain Jazz Band. Bring your own beverages, snacks and a friend or two! There is a large dance floor and lots of free parking. $15. Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Road, Danville. Information: visit www.jazznut.com or call 925625-2707. San Ramon Performing Arts Summer Concert Series 2017 House Rockers - Rock & Soul July 16 5:30pm. Bring the family for a perfect summer evening in Central Park. Enjoy great music, talk with friends and neighbors, bring a picnic and let the kids enjoy dancing

barefoot in the grass. Bring a picnic, blanket and/or lawn chairs. Wine, beer, soda and snacks available for purchase. San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon. Information: www.sanramon. ca.gov/Parks/events/summer_ concerts.htm Walnut Creek Library hosts Jane Austen expert, Dr. Kirsten T. Saxton July 19 7pm. 2017 is the 200th anniversary of the death of Austen and the occasion has prompted a series of exhibitions, talks, and performances around the world celebrating her novels. The life, works, and fame of universally beloved author Jane Austen will be revisited in a commemorative presentation by Mills College professor Dr. Kirsten T. Saxton. Austen’s novels include the classics Pride and Prejudice, Emma, Mansfield Park, and Sense and Sensibility. Free - sponsored by the Walnut Creek Library Foundation. In the Oak View Room at the Walnut Creek Library, 1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek. RSVPs are encouraged and can be made online at www. wclibrary.org/live or by phone at 925-935-5395. D i a b l o Re g i o i n a l A r t s Association presents 2017 Summer Sounds Box Set Duo, Trio July 20 5:30pm. The Box Set Duo has been entertaining audiences

with their powerful Americana sound and songs, brought to life by inspired guitar interplay and vocal harmonies that warm the senses. The subject matter ranges from politics to relationships and everything in between. They’ve performed with Dave Matthews Band, Barenaked Ladies and Willie Nelson. Free. On the plaza at the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information call 925943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter.org. Synergy Theater presents Whose Life Is It, Anyway? July 20 – 22 8:15pm. A completely improvised two-act comedy that challenges the notion of beginning, middle and end. $20. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. www.lesherartscenter. org or 925-943-7469. Long Time July 22 6pm. Northern California’s premier Boston tribute band, Long Time delivers performances that capture the layered guitar harmonies and powerful vocals that make up the Boston sound. You’ll experience all of the most memorable hits, such as “More Than a Feeling,” “Peace of Mind,” and “Don’t Look Back.” Bring a blanket and lawn chairs to this family-friendly event and grab some great eats from the food trucks provided by Food Truck Mafia, or bring your own picnic dinner. Free. Oak Hill Park, 3005 Stone Valley Road, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3400 or visit www.danville.ca.gov.

Beth Batchelor to celebrate 100th birthday Local artist Beth Batchelor is turning 100 years young on July 30, 2017. She would like to invite you to her birthday party at the Alamo Women’s Club, 1401 Danville Boulevard, Alamo, on July 30 at 1:00 p.m. (until evening). Beth has been an artist for the past 80 or more years. S h e wo n a B ro o k l y n Museum textile design competition when she was 13 years old. She then studied commercial art at Cooper

Union Art School and Girls’ Commercial Art High School in Brooklyn. She had a varied career doing jobs for many large companies. She admits, though, that her first love was acting. In 1977 Beth founded the Alamo Danville Artists Society (ADAS), and the Contra Costa Academy of Fine Arts in 2001. She has been teaching art locally since moving to Alamo in 1970.

She now focuses primarily on portraiture, but she has also trained in commercial art. She formerly created the poster for Alamo’s tree lighting ceremony. At Beth’s party on July 30, many of her art works and memorabilia will be on display. Beth hopes that many of you will join her for her birthday celebration. For more information, or to RSVP, please contact Dale Bridges at (925) 876-9710. Hope to see you there!

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events

valleysentinel.com

San Ramon Performing Arts Summer Concert Series 2017 Apple Z - Music of the 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s and Top 40 July 23 5:30pm. Bring the family for a perfect summer evening in Central Park. Enjoy great music, talk with friends and neighbors, bring a picnic and let the kids enjoy dancing barefoot in the grass. Bring a picnic, blanket and/or lawn chairs. Wine, beer, soda and snacks available for purchase. San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon. Information: www.sanramon. ca.gov/Parks/events/summer_ concerts.htm

Gentleman Champion - The Ron Pestana Story Film Screening July 23 Meet & Greet: 6:30pm., Film screening: 7pm. Local resident Bill Bentley’s first feature length documentary film set in Northern California explores the world of independent racing through the life of Ron Pestana who began racing at Altamont Speedway and went on to create music heard in short tracks around the world. A racing adventure with music from the actual recordings by “Ron Pestana and the Pit Crew”. Learn more at www. GentlemanChampion.com. $15. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www.villagetheatreshows.com or (925) 314-3400. D i a b l o Re g i o i n a l A r t s Association presents 2017 Summer Sounds Tumbledown House July 27 5:30pm. In 2012, the band relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area, where they teamed up with clarinet virtuoso Zac Johnson, ragtime trumpeter Jeff Bordes, upright bass wizard Ryan Lukas, and a wide, varied cast of drummers and percussionists which provides

June 2017

the perfect sonic landscapes for the intricately crafted songs of sultry vocalist Gillian Howe and producer/guitarist Tyler Ryan Miller. The resulting group has become just as notorious for their raucous speakeasy parties as they are adored for their intimate seated events, which are oftentimes enriched by lush storytelling. Free. On the plaza at the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. Information call 925-943-SHOW (7469) or visit www.lesherartscenter. org. Dive-in Movie: Disney’s The Little Mermaid July 28 7pm. Movie will start at approximately 8:30pm. San Ramon Olympic Pool & Aquatic Center located at California High School, 9900 Broadmoor Dr., San Ramon.

San Ramon Performing Arts Summer Concert Series 2017 Rachel Steele & Road 88 Country July 30 5:30pm. Bring the family for a perfect summer evening in Central Park. Enjoy great music, talk with friends and neighbors, bring a picnic and let the kids enjoy dancing barefoot in the grass. Bring a picnic, blanket and/or lawn chairs. Wine, beer, soda and snacks available for purchase. San Ramon Central Park, 12501 Alcosta Blvd, San Ramon. Information: www.sanramon. ca.gov/Parks/events/summer_ concerts.htm Village Theatre Hosts Free Screening of Documentary Forks Over Knives July 27 7:30pm. This film is being shown in conjunction with Pleasing to the Palette, the current art exhibition in the Art Gallery which features p a i n t i n g s, d raw i n g s a n d sculptures all depicting food.

Forks Over Knives examines the relationship between eating and health, and promotes a low-fat, wholefood, plant-based diet as a means to obtain a healthier lifestyle and avoid diseases. Participants will have a chance to sample a variety of free healthy treats, and participate in a brief discussion on food led by artist and plant-based health coach Rochelle BlankZimmer. Free. Village Theatre, 233 Front Street in Danville. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit www. villagetheatreshows.com or call 925-314-3400. 3Day Weekend August 5 6pm. This 10-piece party band plays crowd-pleasing tunes to get people dancing. Their broad-ranging styles encompass Motown, Funk, Rock, and Blues. They cover artists such as Aretha Franklin, Chicago, Amy Winehouse, Tower of Power, Ike and Tina, Stevie Wonder and more! Bring a blanket and lawn chairs to this family-friendly event and grab some great eats from the food trucks provided by Food Truck Mafia, or bring your own picnic dinner. Free. Oak Hill Park, 3005 Stone Valley Road, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3400 or visit www. danville.ca.gov. August 9- Kidchella! The Raytones The Town of Danville and the Danville Library have partnered on a new children’s reading and music series. Get immersed in summer music, crafts, and stories through Kidchella! 11:15am. Preschool Music Story Time in the Library’s Children’s Reading Room. Kids will participate in story time by using shakers and other simple instruments. 12pm. Kid’s Concert at the Gazebo on the Town Green. Enjoy a 45 minute concert with the Raytones. Bring snacks or a picnic lunch, spread a blanket on the grass, and enjoy the sunshine! 12:45pm– 2pm. Musicthemed Crafts and Story Walk. Join in at one of the craft stations to make something music-themed to take home. The Library will also lead story walks around the Town Green. Perfect for children 3 - 6 and their families. Free. 400 Front Street, Danville. For more information contact Christian Mejia at 925-314-3418 or cmejia@danville.ca.gov.

The Valley Sentinel

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Live Happy Paper Crafts

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Scrapbook about those fun summer memories as well as make beautiful cards and journals. 355 Hartz Ave., Danville, Ca 94526 925 553-7418 livehappypapercrafts.com

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The Valley Sentinel

July 2017 Sponsored Content

Community Input

Tips to Help Prevent Skin Cancer

We at The Valley Sentinel welcome comments and suggestions from the community at large. We love hearing from you! However, consideration is only given to those who provide their name, address and phone number. Two-way communication is essential for growth and understanding. Write us at P.O. Box 1309, Danville, 94526, email to drousset@valleysentinel.com, or call us at 925820-6047. Thank you! —Denise Rousset, Publisher

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By Michael Forrest, MD

More than 7,000 Californians will be diagnosed with melanoma this year, according to the American Cancer Society. The following are life-saving tips to help prevent this and other skin cancers, the most common form of cancer in the United States. Melanoma, although the most severe skin cancer, can have a 97% survival rate if caught early. It’s tempting to soak up the sun as it warms, but please, protect your skin first. There are three items necessary to protect skin from damaging UV rays and thus limit your skin cancer risk. First, sunscreen must be applied correctly and in adequate quantity. The rule for sunblock is 2-30. It takes about two tablespoons of sunblock to cover your entire body and should be applied 30 minutes before going RUN from page 1

was supported by generous community sponsors, including title sponsor Hermann and Cooke and was made possible by hundreds of volunteers, including Leadership San Ramon Valley Class of 2017 and a crew from United Parcel Services. Kathy Chiverton, Executive Director of Discovery Counseling Center, together with Discovery Counseling Center Board members, Robert Combs and Gary Riele, thanked Katalyst Events and Forward Motion for their commitment to TOAD from page 1

gophers, ground squirrels, or other animals. It tends to walk rather than hop, although it can jump considerable distance for a toad. They vocalize with mellow, high-pitched chirruping or plinking sounds, suggesting peeping of a chick, especially when handled or disturbed. A chorus may sound like a distant flock of geese. The males lack vocal sacs. Western Toads are ambush predators, waiting for their prey on the surface of the ground or in shallow burrows. They feed on a variety of insects including bees, beetles,

outside. This gives the skin enough time to absorb the lotion and become effective at blocking UV rays. It should also be reapplied every few hours, after drying off, or after excessive sweating. Second, hats, sunprote ctive clothing, and sunglasses are important items to help block the sun. Wide brimmed hats can help shield the nose, ears, shoulders and scalp from burns. It takes only one bad sunburn in childhood to double your chances of developing melanoma later in life. So, protect your children and grandchildren with these same items. Also important is to avoid mid-day sun (10am to 4pm), sun bathing, and tanning salons. The last item in the arsenal against melanoma is a mirror. It’s crucial to know every mole and freckle on your body. Any change can signify a problem and should be checked by a doctor immediately. Selfexams are recommended more frequently for those who have fair skin, have atypical moles and/or freckles, or have a history of severe burns.

When examining moles, remember A-B-C-D-E: A is for ASYMMETRY: One half of a mole or birthmark does not match the other. B is for BORDER: Normal spots have smooth edges. Cancerous spots may have irregular, ragged, notched or blurred edges. C is for COLOR: The color is not the same throughout and may include shades of brown or black or sometimes patches of red, white or blue. D is for DIAMETER: Benign moles are about the size of a pencil eraser, 1/4 inch. Anything larger is worrisome. E i s f o r E L E VAT E D : Having a spot above skin level is another warning sign. You don’t have to avoid the sun altogether, but protect yo u rs e l f w i t h yo u r ow n arsenal against skin cancer this summer. Taking these precautions will lessen your risk for all types of skin cancer, including melanoma. Dr. Michael Forrest is a Radiation Oncologist with Epic Care, a group of experts in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of cancer and blood disorders. (925) 452-1852 www.epic-care.com

the community and for the critical support that they have given to Discovery. Ms. Chiverton noted, “Discovery is not only deeply grateful for the extremely generous monetary contribution, but also for the opportunity that the Devil Mt. Run gives us to get the word out about the resources available at Discovery Counseling Center. The success of the Devil Mt. Run helps ensure that this community knows that affordable and high quality counseling is only a phone call away.” The donation from this year’s race was matched by a

challenge grant from the Quest Foundation that helps provide funding for Discovery’s antibullying programs for 4th and 5th grade students in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District. Discovery has been an integral part of the San Ramon Valley community for almost 50 years, providing mental health counseling in their Danville clinic, in every elementary and middle school in the San Ramon Valley Unified School District and at the Senior Center in Danville’s Veterans’ Memorial Building. For more information, go to www.discoveryctr.net.

ants, arachnids, sowbugs, and grasshoppers. Crayfish and other prey may be taken. In turn, Western Toad tadpoles are preyed upon by fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds, and mammals. The nocturnal habit and skin toxins of adults limit predation, although birds, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals have been known to prey on them. Some Western Toad populations are near threatened largely due to the impact of disease and chemical contamination of the environment, especially chytridiomycosis, a fungal infection threatening amphibians worldwide. The

overuse of pesticides and fertilizers, absorbed through the toad’s skin can lead to increased mortality. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Please visit his website at www. dochale.com

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July 2017

The Valley Sentinel

page 5

Sponsored Content

Investing vs. Speculating By Robert Cucchiaro

I recently read a great article by Warren Buffett (which I am happy to share) where he talked about two great investments that he made and why they worked out as well as they did. The point of Buffett’s article was that in both cases he was investing as opposed to speculating. While most investors are certainly familiar with these terms in general, they are unfamiliar with how these terms apply to an investment. In order to explain the difference between investing vs. speculating let’s use two different imaginary lemonade stands. The first lemonade stand has a 30 year lease right outside of a location where hundreds of pedestrians walk by each day. They sell high quality lemonade and because of the convenience of their location, are able to command a slight premium over what you pay at the grocery store for lemonade. This lemonade stand has been in business for over 20 years and has a history of producing 15%-20% profit margins. The owners of this lemonade stand decide to they want to expand their business by offering cookies and they need raise capital in order to do this, so they issue stock in the company. They plan to pay a dividend to shareholders and plan to increase this dividend over time as the business grows and profits increase. The second lemonade stand does not have the history or the stability of the first, but they have something that they think is even more valuable – a

patent. Their lemonade may cure baldness. They are still in clinical trials and their product has not been FDA approved, but once (if) it is they will be able to sell each cup of lemonade for 20X what the going rate is! They are currently not profitable because they are sinking all of their revenue into research and development but they hope to be profitable in the future. They are also looking to raise capital as they were initially funded by some venture capitalists who are not willing to commit any more seed capital to this company. You’ve probably guessed it by now, the first company represents an investment. Stable earnings history, profits, and a dividend. The second represents speculation, an idea, a potential growth story. There is nothing wrong with either one of these investments, as long as you understand the risk/reward trade off. The first company is likely to produce stable growth over the years but is not going to make you rich overnight. However they are also very unlikely to make you go broke either. The second company has the potential for rapid growth, they could be the next Google for all we know. But they could also crash and burn and lose all of your money. When it comes to hiring a money manager or financial advisor to invest one’s hardearned retirement money, it’s very important to understand that person’s investment strategy and philosophy – do they invest or do they speculate? Are they swinging for the fences and taking outsized risks, or are they trying to be consistent and manage risk through portfolio construction techniques?

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Over the past few years the large US stock market has been growing above its normal long-term average, and this has many folks wondering why their accounts haven’t performed as well as the large US stock market. One reason could be that most retirement portfolios are not 100% in large US stocks (if they were, they certainly wouldn’t be considered diversified). And another reason is that most money managers & financial advisors prefer to invest in profitable stocks as opposed to unprofitable ones. From March of 2016 through March of 2017 stocks with negative profits beat those with profits by over 16%. This is not a great sign and could be a reason to give your portfolio a second look. Whether you are already retired or 10 years away, the team at Summit Wealth & Retirement is here to help you with investment management, retirement planning, and financial & tax planning. Our team includes two CFPs, a CFA and an MBA and we are conveniently located in Danville. Call us to make a complimentary appointment at 925-927-1900 or visit o u r w e b s i t e a t w w w. summitwealthandretirement. com

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Danville Announces New Police Chief

Chief Steve Simpkins returns to Sheriff’s Ofﬁce, Allan Shields named Chief as he moves on to his next Change is coming to the Danville Police Department beginning July 8, 2017 as Chief Steve Simpkins will be returning to a new assignment with the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office, and Lt. Allan Shields is appointed to the position of Danville Police Chief. Simpkins, who accepted the assignment to be Danville’s fifth Police Chief in 2010, is a 23 year veteran of the Contra Costa Sheriff’s Office. Over his seven years as Danville Po l i c e C h i e f , S i m p k i n s promoted a solid community outreach program, increased enforcement and investigation, and improvements in technology that allowed for the department to operate more efficiently. To w n M a n a g e r J o e Calabrigo said, “ Chief Simpkins has done an outstanding job of serving Danville and leading our Police Department. He’s passionate about community engagement and working in partnership with our residents and businesses to keep our community safe. Every year, Danville is ranked among the safest communities in California.. We wish him well

assignment with the Sheriff’s Office”. Chief Simpkins will be recognized by the Town Council at their July 5, 2017 meeting. On his return to the Sheriff’s Office, Simpkins will oversee the Coroner’s Division of the Sheriff’s Office. Chosen to head up the Danville Police moving forward is Lt. Allan Shields. After four years of service in the U.S. Air Force, Shields joined the Sheriff’s Office in 1999, and has served as the Administrative Lieutenant for the Danville Police Department since 2013. He resides in Danville with his wife, Christine, and their three children, Aidan, Ethan, and Mitchell. To w n M a n a g e r J o e Calabrigo said: “We’re delighted to have the opportunity to work with Chief Shields in this new capacity. He’s thoroughly familiar with our community and our Department and brings the perfect combination of experience and leadership to be our next Chief.” Chief Shields will be formally introduced at the Town Council meeting on July 18, 2017.

Rose Street Parking Project Begins Members of the Danville Town Council took shovels in hand Tuesday, July 11, 2017 to officially kick-off the start of the Rose Street Parking Improvement Project. Located at the northwest corner of Rose Street and East Linda Mesa Avenue, the Town project will create an additional 78 parking spaces adjacent to the main downtown business district. “Parking is something that

we continually look at, and work to improve,” said Town Manager Joe Calabrigo. “The Rose Street Parking Improvement is one of several projects designed to provide additional parking for our residents and businesses.” Work on the parking i m p rove m e n t s w i l l t a ke p l a c e ove r t h e s u m m e r, with completion expected in fall 2017. The project is one of several Town-funded

downtown parking projects to be completed in the upcoming years, including San Ramon Valley High School Parking Lot, the Village Theatre Municipal Parking Lot Expansion Project, and the Sycamore Valley Park & Ride Lot Expansion Project. In total, over 500 additional parking spaces will be added as part of these combined projects.

New Weekly Adult Improv Class Announced Registration available for ‘Improv for Everyone’ A new program offered through the Town of Danville will let residents learn to think on their feet, learn spontaneous communication skills, and have a great time while doing it. Starting August 14, 2017, residents can be a part of ‘Improv for Everyone.’ Improvisational skills can help with interpersonal communication, career development, and adaptability to life’s curve balls, while at the same time, increasing confidence, public speaking abilities, observational skills,

and mindfulness. Improv can also decrease social anxiety, shyness, and the fear of making mistakes. In this beginner improv class, students will experience the transformative nature of group play. Classes will focus on a variety of techniques to tap into pure spontaneity, creativity, and collaboration. The class will conclude with a performance at the Village Theatre, but participation is not mandatory. Shy people welcome. Scripts stay at home!

This class is for adults ages 18 and up. The class meets every Monday from 6:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., starting on August 14, 2017. A final rehearsal will be held on Thursday, September 28 with the final performance set for Saturday, September 30. Interested students can find more information and enroll in Improv for Everyone online atwww.danvillerecguide.com or by calling the Danville Community Center at (925) 314-3400. The activity number is #13589.

valleysentinel.com

July 2017

The valley Sentinel

San Ramon News Bits

Monte Vista Teacher recognized

S a n Ra m o n O u t d o o r Concerts Celebrate family at our free events this summer including outdoor concerts Sundays at 5:30 p.m., through August 6th in Central Park and at our free Dive-in Movie at the San Ramon Olympic Po o l f e a t u r i n g D i s n ey ’s The Little Mermaid on July 28th.

S R V U S D E d u c a t o r, Kimberley Gilles, was named one of the 48 public school educators to become a member of this year’s class of Global Learning Fellows by The NEA Foundation. Gilles, an educator of 30 years, is an English teacher at Monte Vista High School in Danville. Gilles will spend a year building global competency skills (the capacity to understand and act on issues of global significance). As a result of the Fe l l o w s h i p , G i l l e s w i l l be better equipped to prepare students for global citizenship. Fellows also create valuable global lesson plans for their students that are freely shared with educators across the nation and the world through opensource platforms. “ I a m exc i t e d a b o u t sharing my experience and deepened understanding of the world with my students via stories,” says Gilles. “As an English teacher, I will collect the poetry, novels, essays, and art forms of different cultures and weave them all into my American curriculum.” This class was selected from over 400 applicants

Celebrating 150 Years Celebrate San Ramon at the San Ramon 150 Birthday Party at City Hall on September 9th. Start with a walk on the Iron Horse Trail led by the Open Space Advisory Committee and then join the birthday fun at City Hall from 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. with historical displays, speakers and refreshments. For more information about San Ramon upcoming events, visit our website at www.SanRamon.ca.gov. Safety Tips from the San Ramon Police Department Now that summer has arrived, your home may be vacant due to vacations and other recreational activities. There are many things you can do to protect your valuables while you are away. One of the easiest things to do is to request a vacation home check from the San Ramon Po l i c e D e p a r t m e n t . O n e simple form to fill out and we will keep an eye on your home while you are away. To access the form visit: www. sanramon.ca.gov/police/ documents/patvacrequest. pdf. In addition here is a list of Crime Prevention tips to prepare for leaving your home: 1) Have a trusted neighbor pick up your mail, packages and newspapers. This gives extra eyes and ears on your home while you are away. 2) You always want to give the appearance that your home is occupied. Set lights on timers inside and outside your home just as if you are there. 3) Park vehicles with built in garage door openers in the garage. This type of opener works without the car being on and will allow access to your home. Lock your interior garage door. Remove openers from all vehicles if left for an extended period of time. 4) Contact your alarm company to let them know to call the police department directly in your absence. Time is of essence when a burglary is in progress.

5) Do not post your trip on social media. Wait until you return home to post those pictures. These tips will target harden your valuables while you are away. If you or your neighbors see anything suspicious please always remember “SEE IT, HEAR IT, REPORT IT “and call the San Ramon Police Department immediately at (925) 9732779. For more Crime Prevention i n f o r m a t i o n v i s i t : w w w. s a n ra m o n . c a . g o v / p o l i c e / prevention.htm San Ramon Valley Street Smarts Street Smarts is a traffic safety campaign in the San Ramon Valley and a collaborative partnership between the City of San Ramon, Town of Danville, Contra Costa County, San R a m o n Va l l e y U n i f i e d School District, San Ramon Va l l e y F i r e P r o t e c t i o n District, San Ramon Valley Council of PTAs, and other community partners. Our goal is to educate drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians on issues related to traffic safety and encourage active transportation through outreach programs. View o u r w e b s i t e a t : w w w. street-smarts.com, or call (925) 973-2581 for more information on programs and outreach events. Stop by our table for educational traffic safety information at one of the outreach events below: Sundays, July 9 & August 6: San Ramon Summer Concerts in the Park at San Ramon Community Center - 5:30 p.m. Fridays, June 23 & July 14: Alamo Summer Concert Series at Livorna Park - 6:00 p.m. Saturdays, July 8 & August 19: Danville Music in the Park at Danville Town Green - 6:00 p.m. Student Transit Tickets The City of San Ramon along with 511 Contra Costa provides free public transit passes as an alternative to driving your student to school. For the upcoming school year, students who qualify will receive two 12-ride County Connection transit passes. Students must be registered in a public or private school (Grades 1-12) in San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Lafayette, Moraga, or Orinda. This offer is available for a maximum of three (3) students per household, while supplies last. Please check the City’s homepage in July for the Program application.

from across the country. These new Fellows teach all grade levels – and all subjects: from visual and performing arts to agriscience, vocational studies to history. They come from rural, suburban, and urban schools. They are National Board Certified, curriculum coaches, IB coordinators, foreign language speakers, a n d m o re. S o m e h ave participated in similar programs, and some have never traveled abroad. The diverse cohort will allow e d u c a t o rs t o l e a r n f ro m each other and bring global perspectives to a wide range of students. “ We b e l i e v e t h a t educators are the key to giving students the skills to thrive in an interconnected world,” said Harriet Sanford, President and CEO of the NEA Foundation. “We created the Global Learning Fellowship to provide professional development in teaching global competencies and to support educators as they integrate these skills into classroom instruction.” Over the course of a year, the NEA Foundation staff, partners, and field experts will support Gilles as she immerses herself in online

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coursework, webinars, and collegial study, including a two-day professional development workshop this fall and a nine-day international field study next summer, bringing the full cohort together with experts in global learning. P r i o r Fe l l o w s h a v e contributed valuable knowledge to the field by posting replicable lesson plans on open-source platforms. Past Fellows have returned to advance global competency in their schools and districts—one Fellow recently brought Peruvian artists to her school to teach her students how to incorporate their own culture into their art. To l e a r n m o re a b o u t the 2018 NEA Foundation L e a r n i n g Fe l l o w s , v i s i t neafoundation.org.

For more local information, visit www.ValleySentinel.com

Senior Living page 8

The Valley SenTinel

Tender

July 2017

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If your family is anything like mine, everyone has a certain specialty or role in keeping the household running. Since I wash dishes faster than anyone, I’m the family dishwashing expert. I’m also the point man for paying medical bills. My wife and I have separate health coverage, so I have to make sure our providers have the upto-date information they need to accurately bill our respective insurance plans. If you have Medicare as well as other insurance, always be sure to tell your doctor, hospital, and pharmacy. This is important because it determines whether your medical bills are paid correctly and on time. When there’s more than one insurance payer, certain rules determine which one pays first. These rules are called “coordination of benefits.” The “primary payer” pays what it owes on your bills first -- and then sends the balance to the “secondary payer” to pay. In some cases, there may also be a third payer. Medicare is the primary payer for beneficiaries who aren’t covered by other types of health insurance. The primary payer pays up to the limits of its coverage. The secondary payer only pays if there are costs the primary insurer didn’t cover. But keep in mind that the secondary payer (which may be Medicare) may not pay all of the uncovered costs.

If you currently have employer insurance and it’s the secondary payer, you may need to enroll in Medicare Part B before your job-based coverage will pay. (Most people who sign up for Part B for the first time this year will pay a monthly premium of $134.) Here’s who pays first in various situations when you have Medicare and some other type of insurance as well: If you have retiree insurance (coverage from a former job), Medicare pays first. If you’re 65 or older, have group coverage based on your or your spouse’s current employment, and the employer has 20 or more workers, your group plan pays first. (If the company has fewer than 20 employees, Medicare pays first.) Your group plan also pays first when you’re under 65 and disabled, have group coverage based on your or a family member’s current employment, and the employer has 100 or more employees. (Medicare pays first if the company has fewer than 100 employees.) If you have Medicare because of end stage renal disease (permanent kidney failure), your group plan pays first for the first 30 months after you become eligible for Medicare. Medicare pays first after this 30 month period. Medicare may pay second if you’re in an accident or have a workers’ compensation case in which other insurance covers your injury or you’re suing another entity for medical expenses. In such situations you or your lawyer should tell Medicare as soon as possible. The following types of insurance usually pay first for

services related to each type: -No-fault insurance (including automobile insurance); -Liability (including automobile and selfinsurance); -Black lung benefits; -Workers’ compensation. Medicaid and TRICARE (the healthcare program for U.S. armed service members, retirees, and their families) never pay first for services that are covered by Medicare. They only pay after Medicare, employer plans, and/or Medicare Supplement Insurance (Medigap) have paid. For more information, read the booklet “Medicare and Other Health Benefits: Your Guide to Who Pays First.” You can find it online at: www. medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/02179. pdf Or call us toll-free at 1-800-MEDICARE (1 800 633 4227) and ask for a copy to be mailed to you. TTY users should call 1 877 486 2048. If you have questions about who pays first, or if your coverage changes, call the Benefits Coordination & Recovery Center toll-free at 1-855-798-2627. TTY users should call 1-855-797-2627. You can also contact your employer or union benefits administrator. You may need to give your Medicare number to your other insurers so your bills are paid correctly and on time. Greg Dill is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Territories. You can always get answers to your Medicare questions by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227).

5 Reasons Why You Should Draft Your Advance Directives BEFORE You Get Sick By Dr. Sherellen Gerhart

It is best to make decisions in a clear minded and healthy state. At times of medical crisis, our judgment can be clouded by the sense of urgency that accompanies critical hospitalizations. We may be experiencing pain, suffering, and/or medication that impair our ability to employ perspective and good judgment. Knowing

what your basic preferences are before you get sick will provide guidance for decisions in the critical care setting. Making decisions when we are well also allows us time to have more comprehensive communication with loved ones, so they feel prepared. Coordination of communication takes time, effort and thoughtfulness.

Unless you are very clearly communicating your wishes to your family/loved ones, they cannot be sure how you prefer to have your care handled. When you choose a proxy or surrogate decision maker, it is imperative that you take the time to have a meaningful conversation and ongoing See DIRECTIVE page 9

valleysentinel.com

July 2017

Bigger Than Life

Franklin “Pete” Kistner 1941 - 2017

Born in Perth Amboy, NJ in 1941, Franklin Kistner was a large boy with big dreams. In 1959, he fled school and entered the Army, a role for which he was uniquely unqualified and unsuited. As an Army private writing for the Stars & Stripes, he discovered he had no interest in rules or conventions, a trait he cultivated his entire life. Upon discharge in 1961, he worked at Chubb Insurance, where he met his wife Donna and started his family with two daughters named Kris and Karen. In 1971, he apprenticed to a fish monger named Pete, and within a few years, he

DIRECTIVE from page 8

dialog regarding preferences to ensure your desired care choices are understood and followed. Helpful websites with tools to assist you in initiating a conversation about these topics: 5 Wishes:www. agingwithdignity.org The Conversation Project: theconversationproject.org Formulating and verbally ex p re s s i n g o u r p e rs o n a l preferences is a process, and may necessitate more than one conversation. Preferences evolve over time and as our health changes. Rarely do families sit down and draft a complete advance directive after one conversation. It is never too early to start this conversation. Advance directives can be changed. Just because you draft an advance directive today, does not mean you may feel the same way in 1 year, 5 years or at age 92. These directives can be revised to reflect your changing preferences. The exercise of completing an initial set of preferences and communicating with loved ones will have value at any time and will inform as well and make the process easier in the future. Since we cannot predict when our health may change, being prepared and periodically revisiting our stated preferences will facilitate

worked his way up to buying out the business and taking the mantle of “Pete” for himself. Once established as an infamous fish monger, he turned towards public service by serving on the town council, as police commissioner, and as president of the school board of his local community of Middlesex Borough, NJ. In 1983, for reasons to this day unbeknownst to anyone but Franklin, he gathered up the family and left for California, with no particular plan or prospects in mind. With a blue van, 3 reluctant young ladies, and a cranky cat, he embarked on a road trip across the United States. Surprisingly, all survived this endeavor and upon arrival, he tried many creative career paths. He became a graveyard shift

gas pumper, an unpublished journalist, a professional gambler (30k1day), a daytrader, and a Loretto’s deli sandwich slinger. Though Franklin himself was not a college graduate, he was a deep advocate of education and found the means to send both his daughters to The Athenian School, an alternatively styled private school at the foot of Mount Diablo. Though both daughters were reluctant California transplants, they embraced the school and it became one of the biggest influences of their lives. In 1987 he found his personal groove again serving the public, albeit this time he was serving beer, and lots of it. Founding the infamous Pete’s Brass Rail & Car Wash with his partner in life Donna, he created the concept of 20

better outcomes and a higher probability of receiving the care we desire. You may also discover attention to these topics also …:facilitates other important discussions and may help you determine what your desired legacy is beyond health care decision-making. U n ex p e c t e d S u d d e n illnesses arise. Many of us will develop a sudden illness, which may not be immediately life threatening, but may place us at risk for loss of physical function or complications impairing decision-making. Regardless of why someone finds themselves in the midst of these choices, we all will face a final common pathway. In our current healthcare system, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), has come to be an expected offering, no matter what the underlying illness or clinical condition; but CPR, as a life-saving treatment was developed and meant to be initiated on individuals who had a chance of viable and meaningful recovery. Unfortunately, CPR is often performed on people with very advanced illness or terminal conditions which results in additional bodily injury or the need for even more invasive medical care. CPR is initiated when the breathing or the heart stops (biologic death). CPR is performed as an attempt to revive or “bring the body back to life”. In the setting of a terminal illness, reviving someone may result in a far

worse functional state and ensures that the individual will go on to “die again”, potentially with additional pain and or suffering. At a minimum, it is good to be sure your loved ones and proxy know your CPR preference. If you are sure you would not want to be resuscitated, your physician can assist you in documenting a “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) order, sometimes referred to “Allow Natural Death”. Choosing a proxy or surrogate decision maker may require careful thought. Many of us assume that our closest family member or friend should be our medical decision maker (proxy). This choice deserves some careful thought. Making difficult decisions on behalf of another may seem overwhelming to an unprepared proxy, and may result in non-decision making if you choose a proxy who is uncomfortable carrying out decisions due to emotion or personal beliefs. Choosing a proxy carefully and communicating clearly with your proxy is one of the best ways to ensure your preferences will be followed. It is not a good practice to assume your spouse or next of kin will be prepared to make difficult decisions about your care without thoughtful discussion. Dr. Sherellen Gerhart is the Director of Supportive Services at Epic Care. www.epic-care. com

The valley Sentinel micro-brews on tap decades before it was trendy. He enshrined those who drank more than 100 different brews with their names inscribed on the wall behind the bar. The slogan of his establishment was, “There is no brass rail, there is no car wash, and who the hell is Pete” which tells you a lot about him. If unwitting folks actually asked about the carwash, he would point them towards a sign on the wall over a bucket, sponge, and squeegee asking for $10. His humor was abundant, absurd, and definitely an acquired taste, but people acquired it, and he was adored by many. M o r e i m p o r t a n t l y, h e c re a t e d a n d b e c a m e the revamped persona of “Pete”, a genial but fiery host that brought joy to beer connoisseurs everywhere, but rained down wrath and misery upon Coors drinkers. His persona, as caricatured by Kelly Tighe, created a likeness and a movement called the “Many faces of Pete,” in which legions of fans created an infinite array of creative variations of his visage, many displayed proudly on the walls of Pete’s Brass Rail & Carwash to this day. Beyond establishing himself as the premiere beer monger of the east bay, he was most proud to participate in the Kiwanis Club and serve his self-anointed role as commissioner of the wildly illegal and popular FFFF football pool for over 25 years. For his 60th birthday, Franklin hosted a huge party in his own honor, with unlimited libations and lobster for all. It quickly spiraled into an impromptu roast, in which the consensus rallying cry, as led by his best friend John Lineweaver, was “Franklin

page 9

is an a**hole…but he’s our a**hole!” For those lucky enough to be present, they may even recall the normally timid Donna belting out a bawdy solo during a family reworking of Master of the House. After passing the crown to his ace general manager Dave Homer in 2005, he spent his golden years relentlessly playing golf and was proud to log 300 rounds in a single year at Round Hill Country Club. In the few hours not playing golf, he reveled in spending time with his family–his wife Donna, his daughters Kris and Karen, his sons-in-law Dan and Steve, and of course his grandchildren Casey and Jaxon. Normal life just never seemed to contain Franklin, he constantly pushed the boundaries. Now we celebrate his next chapter. All Hail Pete, Master of the House Franklin passed away on June 25th, 2017. L G R . J - E - T- S . G o Dodgers.

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The Valley SenTinel

July 2017

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UCSF Benioff Children’s Physicians OB/GYN Public Awareness Needed for Program Adds New Locations and Physicians EBRP Wildland Fire Season UCSF Benioff Children’s Physicians (UBCP) OB/GYN is expanding its comprehensive normal and high-risk obstetric practice to include four new physicians and three additional locations in Berkeley and Walnut Creek. The new OB/GYN and M a t e r n a l - Fe t a l M e d i c i n e offices in Walnut Creek will be at 2970 Camino Diablo, Suite 210. The new OB/GYN office in Berkeley will be at 3000 Colby Street, Suite 301. These locations will augment ultrasound and consultation services at two locations in Oakland, and delivery and inpatient services at Alta Bates Summit Medical Center in Berkeley. The new locations will provide complete OB/GYN services including normal and high-risk obstetrics, maternal-fetal medicine,

fertility services, minimally invasive surgery, laparoscopy, vaginal and abdominal hysterectomies, urologic evaluation and procedures, and all other aspects of gynecology, menopause, and hormonal issues. The group’s maternal-fetal medicine practice will also be located within the Walnut Creek new office. The UBCP physicians Debra Levinsky, Melissa Owens, Rosie Monardo and Jessica Johns (joining in September 2017) will be working out of both the Berkeley and Walnut Creek locations. Both new locations are equipped with state of the art technology in a spa like environment that is calming for patients. For more information about our services or to make an appointment, please call 510-705-8624 or 925-979-9360.

U B C P M a t e r n a l - Fe t a l Medicine is one of the largest maternal-fetal medicine practices in the country, with 3,800 deliveries, 15,000 OB ultrasounds, and 4,000 genetic screenings every year. The program provides a full spectrum of advanced services for complex maternal-fetal medical conditions, including perinatal consultation, prenatal care, pregnancy co-management, prenatal diagnosis, ultrasound, amniocentesis, chorionic villus sampling (CVS), genetic counseling, screening for chromosomal abnormalities, and diabetes in pregnancy. There is also a high-risk hospital and delivery service with perinatal obstetricians in hospitals available 24 hours a day.

Trafﬁc Advisory for Hot Summer Nights Car Show Motorists should be advised Front Street north to Linda Mesa A street party like no other, Danville’s Hot Summer Nights Car Show combines classic cars with current rides and camaraderie to create an evening of summer celebration in picturesque downtown Danville. The next Hot Summer N i g h t s eve n t i s s e t f o r Thursday, August 10, 2017. Hours of the show are 4pm to 9pm. A large crowd is expected, resulting in heavy pedestrian traffic through the area. Motorists are asked to drive with caution.

that the following streets will be closed to traffic August 10 from 2pm to 10pm: 1. Hartz Avenue between Railroad Avenue and Hartz Way; 2. Linda Mesa Avenue between Railroad Avenue and Rose Avenue; 3. Diablo Road between Hartz Avenue and Rose Avenue; 4. Diablo Road at Front Street, westbound direction; 5. Local traffic access only between Front Street and Rose Avenue on Diablo Road and

Avenue; 6. P r o s p e c t Av e n u e between the Clock Tower Municipal Parking Lot entrance and Front Street; and 7. Church Street 50 feet west and east of Hartz Avenue. Railroad Avenue and Front Street are available as alternate routes through the downtown area. For more information about the show, visit www.dhsncs.com. For road closure information, contact Lieutenant Allan Shields at 925-314-3701 orashields@ danville.ca.gov.

Following the transition into fire season by CAL FIRE, the East Bay Regional Park District has also been transitioning and preparing for wildland fire season since May 2017 in its 120,000 acres of parklands in Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. “The East Bay Regional Park District has a major role in fire prevention and protection of park visitors, staff and natural and cultural resources. We have already had our first fire of the year, and our neighboring fire departments are experiencing an abnormally high number of fires. We need everyone to be alert and obey fire danger restrictions in the parklands,” said EBRPD Assistant Fire Chief Paul Cutino. Pa r k s u p e r v i s o rs a re working with local fire agencies to abate weeds as needed on parklands, and park staff are creating and maintaining a defensible space around park structures to allow firefighters to more safely defend them in the event of a wildfire. District staff are actively implementing a wildfire hazardous fuel reduction program to improve fire protection on parklands in the East Bay hills and other wildland urban interface areas, as guided by the Boardapproved Wildfire Hazard Reduction and Resource Management Plan. District fire crews, contract tree removal companies and even organized neighborhood groups are aiding in this effort. Chief Cutino said this year’s winter rains promoted a heavy grass crop and abundant growth on brush and trees. Vegetation is drying earlier than normal and any late rains it will contribute to an already significant grass crop. Once these grasses cure, this fuel load could produce intense, fast-moving fires. This will be especially true on dry, windy days in areas where topography also contributes to fire spread. The heavier fuels, like brush, will soon be dry enough to burn actively, and the combination of heavy grass and brush will likely present a challenge to our suppression capabilities. These fires will be especially worrisome when they move into dense forest stands. Torching trees launch

burning embers high into the air, possibly igniting fires hundreds or thousands of yards downwind. “We need the public to be aware of fire danger, and to take action to help us protect people and parks this season,” said Chief Cutino. “Many of our parks have signs with Smokey Bear and an adjective rating of the current fire danger. Or ask any park ranger.” “While our efforts to reduce the risk of severe wildfires are extensive, residents can take steps to reduce flammable brush and foliage around their homes too. Visit ebparks. org or contact your local fire department for tips on reducing fire risks,” added Interim Fire Chief John Swanson. T h e Pa r k D i s t r i c t offers these park fire safety recommendations: • Be extra careful with fire. Of the 6,000+ California wildfires every year, more than 90% are caused by people. • Be prepared for the worst. Have a plan for gathering family members, pets and valuables in case an approaching wildfire requires evacuation. • Observe and obey the Fire Department warning signs and park restrictions. • Be alert and report any small fires immediately by calling 9-1-1. • While visiting our parks, use extra caution with charcoal and gas barbecues. Be sure to use your barbecue in a clear area, away from dry grass or brush. Make sure coals are cold before disposing of them. In some cases, parks may be closed because of fire danger, and everyone should comply to help prevent fires in our beautiful regional parks. Visit www.ebparks. org/fireweather for more information. The East Bay Regional Park District is a system of beautiful public parks and trails in Alameda and Contra Costa counties east of San Francisco Bay, established in 1934. The system comprises 120,000 acres in 65 parks including over1,250 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and nature learning.

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July 2017

The Valley SenTinel

page 11

Splash into Summer By Beverly Lane, President, East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors

East Bay Regional Park District is splashing into summer, with lifeguard service available at lots of district lakes and pools. Altogether the park district operates 10 guarded swim facilities, plus two beaches on San Francisco Bay where no lifeguard service is provided. Three good places for swimming and other activities are Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area in Walnut Creek, Contra Loma Regional Park in Antioch, and Lake Anza at Tilden Regional Park in Berkeley. Castle Rock, located at the end of Castle Rock Road past Northgate High School, has a 30 by 70 foot swimming pool in a grove next to picnic areas and ball fields. Lifeguards are on duty from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays through Sept. 17, and Thursdays and Fridays through Aug. 18. The changing rooms and pool are disabled accessible. There’s a pool access fee of $3.50 for ages 16 through 61; $2.50 for ages 1 through 15, seniors and disabled; and free for infants under a year old. Cash or check only, no bills over $20, no credit cards.

As with all park district swim areas, lifeguard service depends on staff availability, weather, water quality and level of patronage. Before or after your swim, you can picnic, play ball, and hike or bike on the shady Stage Road Trail, which follows Pine Creek up the canyon towards Mt. Diablo, with spectacular views of the Castle Rocks. It all makes for a very pleasant day’s outing. Contra Loma Regional Park is located at the end of Frederickson Lane off Golf Course Road in Antioch. The park has a swim lagoon and concession stand located next to Contra Loma Reservoir; there’s no swimming in the reservoir itself. The lagoon includes a sandy beach and

wading area for smaller children. There’s a disabled accessible lift into the swim lagoon. Lifeguard service is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays through Sept. 17, weekdays as well through Aug. 18. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. Swim lagoon fees are $3 for ages 16 through 61, $2 for ages 1 through 15, seniors and disabled; and free for infants under one year old. Cash, exact amount check, Visa or Mastercard.

Besides the swim lagoon, Contra Loma has picnic areas, fishing in the reservoir – which is stocked with trout and catfish, and a boat launch ra m p f o r e l e c t r i c m o t o r boats. There’s a mostly flat, scenic walking trail around the reservoir. And Contra Loma is adjacent to Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve, which has miles of hiking trails. It gets hot at Contra Loma in the summer, so you might want to plan your hike in the morning before your swim. Lake Anza is located on Lake Anza Road off Tilden’s Central Park Drive, near the merry-go-round. Lifeguard service is from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily through Sept. 8, then on weekends and holidays through Sept. 17. The fees are the same as Castle Rock. Tilden offers a myriad of other attractions besides swimming: the Environmental Education Center, a botanic garden, a steam train, picnic areas, and miles of trails for hiking and riding.

Another district swim area is Little Hills Picnic Ranch on Bollinger Canyon Road in San Ramon. This park is available for group picnics by advance reservation only. For reservations, contact The Ranch at Little Hills at (925) 462-1400. N o t e a l s o t h a t L a ke Temescal in Oakland may be closed because of a toxic bluegreen algae problem. That also occurs at Quarry Lakes in Fremont. For more complete and up-to-date information on swimming opportunities in the East Bay Regional Parks, visit the district web site at www.ebparks.org. Click on “Activities” on the left side of the home page, then click on “Swimming” and again on “Swim Facilities.” Here are some safety tips to remember when you go swimming:

the water and look for the parents. • Be sure to have adequate sun protection. Sunburn can ruin an otherwise enjoyable day.

• Please follow any instructions from lifeguards, rangers, police or firefighters, especially in an emergency.

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

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For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com COMMUNITY EVENTS July 14 Movies Under the Stars: The Secret Life of Pets 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM PDT Two mismatched mutts get lost in NYC due to their feuding, and must ﬁnd their way home. During their journey, they encounter a vicious bunny who plans to lead a group of abandoned pets on a mission of revenge against humanity. Bring your family and enjoy this FREE outdoor moving screening! Bring a picnic or enjoy dinner at one of the many local restaurants prior to the movie. Please do not bring pets. For more information, call 925-943-5858. Civic Park 1375 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek, Music begins at 7pm Movie begins at sunset. Live music by The Last Minute Band begins at 7pm. July 31 CSC Golf Classic 10:00am- 7:00pm The CSC (Cancer Support Community) Golf Classic is one of the premier charity golf events in the Bay Area, played on a spectacular course, with special amenities for each player. It will be held on Monday, July 31, 2017 at the exclusive Round Hill Country Club in Alamo, California. All proceeds from the CSC Golf Classic will underwrite the free services and support for cancer patients and their families at Cancer Support Community. For more information or email Carol Louisell, Director of Development , at clouisell@cancersupport.net, or visit http://www. cancersupport.net. Now Through Sept 4 Aimee Golant: 5 Stories Thursdays, Sundays, 10 am - 4 pm The Jewish Heritage Museum at The Reutlinger Community is proud to present Aimee Golant: 5 Stories. The exhibition highlights the metal artist’s journey working with her Holocaust survivor grandfather’s tools to create mezuzahs for two space shuttles and crafting the Crowns of the Women’s Torah Project. Jewish Heritage Museum 4000, Camino Tassajara, Danville, 94506, For more information call 925-964-2062, email Betty Rothaus at betty.rothaus@gmail.com or visit the website at www.rcjl.org/the-reutlinger/jewish-heritage-museum. August 6 Walnut Creek First Wednesdays 5:30pm - 8:30pm Walnut Creek Downtown hosts Walnut Creek First Wednesdays Street Festival each month, April – October, for all ages! Festivities include live entertainment, arts & crafts, shopping, treats & more! Ride your bike to the event: Bike Walnut Creek is sponsoring a free bike valet for your wheels! Park your bike securely with the valet attendant as you relax & enjoy the event. Enjoy FREE parking on Wednesday nights after 5 p.m.! Participating Garages: N. Locust Garage - 1625 Locust St. / S. Locust Garage - 1350 Locust St. N. Broadway Garage - 1390 N. Broadway.BART and FREE Downtown Trolley Come join us for fun activities for the whole family!

Danville Farmer’s Market Every Saturday, Year-round 9am-1pm. Get the freshest seasonal fare at the Danville Certiﬁed Farmers’ Market. Railroad & Prospect Avenue, Danville. Information: www.ci.danville.ca.us. (You can make donations of fresh vegetables and fruit for our local food pantries at the Loaves & Fishes Booth at the Danville Farmers Market.) San Ramon Farmers Market Every Saturday & Thursday Year-round Buy fresh, seasonal produce directly from local farmers at San Ramon Farmers Market. Connect with your community while shopping at a festive gathering place with live music! www. SanRamonFarmersMarket.org. Bishop Ranch 3, 2641 Camino Ramon, San Ramon. Canine Companions for Independence Puppy Class Each Saturday 10-11am. Become a puppy raiser! The East Bay Miracles Chapter invites you to help train puppies to become assistant dogs for children and adults with disabilities. Make sure to check out their online calendar before heading off to volunteer. Athenian High School, 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd., Danville. Information: 925838-3213, cci.org/eastbaychapter Forest Home Farms Historic Park & Glass House Museum–open for Fun on the Farm Every Saturday 11am-2pm. Enjoy tours of the Glass House Museum, the farm and its history, interactive exhibits including the tractor museum, the beautiful grounds and free activities. Visit the Welcome Center and purchase old-fashioned toys and gifts at the Gift Shoppe. Tours are $5 per person, or $8 for both tours on the same day. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3284 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov. Saturday without Reservations at the Tao House Every Saturday 10am, 12pm, and 2pm. Come explore this National Historic Site in Danville. Catch the shuttle at the bus stop in front of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave. www. EugeneOneill.org SENIORS Danville Seniors Unless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3490 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors.

ONGOING

Sneaker Trips: The Town of Danville’s Senior Sneakers program is a great way for you to make new friends and get out and around the greater Bay Area. There’s always something new to see and learn.

Special Services for Children with Cancer and Their Families Cancer Support Community offers short-term counseling (12 to 20 sessions) at no cost to children with cancer and their families. Counseling can be for the family, siblings, and/or kids coping with cancer. Counseling is provided by doctoral interns or post doctoral fellows under the supervision of our clinical psychologists. To request this service, please call us at 925-933-0107 and ask to speak with our program director, Margaret Stauffer, LMFT.

The Danville Area Senior Hikes (DASH) is open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at 8:45am at Osage Park, 816 Brookside Drive, Danville and returns about 1pm. Most hikes are not strenuous, but gradients are involved due to the local terrain. Distances are usually in the 4-5 mile range, and the pace is moderate, with stops to view scenery, wildlife and to talk about location history when appropriate. Information: 925-314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville. ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/Senior_Hiking.

Hope Hospice seeking volunteers Hope Hospice is currently looking for individuals who are interested in volunteering to assist hospice patients and their families. In keeping with Hope Hospice’s goal to make sure patients can live their lives to the fullest and with dignity, volunteers provide a variety of services that help enhance the quality of care of our patients’ lives. Volunteer opportunities include; Home Care; Cosmetology; Healing Touch; Reiki; Massage Therapy; Vocalists. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Jill Biggs, RN, at 925-829-8770.

San Ramon Seniors The following events are held at the Alcosta Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon, unless otherwise noted. For more information call 925-973-3250 or visit www.sanramon. ca.gov/parks/programs/ages55+.htm.

Volunteers Needed: Read to Preschoolers Volunteers are needed at childcare centers in Concord, Pittsburg, and West County. The Contra Costa County Library will supply books and resources. For more information, please contact Maureen Kilmurray at 925-927-3288. Alamo Farmer’s Market Every Sunday, Year round 9am-2pm, rain or shine. Fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, nuts, local honey, live music, delicious varieties of hummus with fresh pita and pita chips. Located in the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center, at Stone Valley Road and Danville Blvd., with convenient parking.

Wisdom Wednesdays: 10:30am-12pm. Free workshops and informational sessions that will beneﬁt you. They will give you free access to coffee, knowledge and a better understanding of important issues. Information: 925-973-3250. Trips Trip Desk is open Tuesdays from 10am-1pm. Sign up for trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway. Information: 925-973-3250. Wednesday Morning Hikes (time and location varies) Join the San Ramon Trailblazers if you are interested in meeting new people, enjoying the outdoors, having fun and getting in shape. The group meets once a week at the north end of Osage

Park, off of Brookside Dr. This is an adults only group; pets are not permitted on hikes. To find out the exact meeting location and to get on the email list, please call the Senior Center at or email trailblazer88@comcast.net. Page Turners Senior Book Group Third Tuesday of the month 1:30pm. Drop in–all are welcome! Copies of this month’s book are on reserve for you at the Dougherty Station Library Front Desk. Book group meets at Alcosta Senior and Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd. Information: Carol Yuke, Adult Services Librarian. 925-973-2850. BUSINESS July 14 First Steps To Successful Start-Ups 1:00pm to 4:30pm. Learn about the attributes of a successful entrepreneur, invaluable sources of information for the nuts and bolts of starting your business including licenses and permits, the business planning process and key information sources for developing your business plan, how to take advantage of the Small Business Development Center’s free and low cost services for your new business, and more! Join us to learn about the key success factors every new business owner needs before starting their venture! FREE. Contra Costa SBDC, 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill. Information call 925-602-6840 or visit www.contracostasbdc.org July 27 MEGA Mixer 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM. The Concord Chamber of Commerce will host the annual Mega Mixer at the Clarion Hotel: This is a fun opportunity to expand networking circles and learn what’s happening in our neighboring cities. Join the Chambers of Walnut Creek, Pleasant Hill, Concord, Lafayette, Martinez, Orinda, Moraga,and Hispanic Appetizers will be generously provided by participating Chamber members. August 7 Cash Flow: The Key to a Successful Business 9am-11am Learn the importance of cash flow. We will discuss basic cash flow management and will provide different resources for you to keep your business cash flow management up to date. Learn different parts of cash flow such as forecasting, planning, and managing inventory. Contact Oscar Dominguez (925) 602-6806 Contra Costa SBDC, 300 Ellinwood Way 1st Floor, Monterey Room, Pleasant Hill CA 94523-4859 FREE BNI Every Thursday Noon-1:30pm. We are actively looking for new members to refer business to in the trades. We need a plumber, electrician, handyman and cleaning service but are also looking for other professions like property manager, event planner and many others. Vic Stewart’s Restaurant at 850 S Broadway in Walnut Creek. 925-330-8275 or david@staff.webquarry.com BBR-Partners for Success 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 12-1pm. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Partners for Success meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive, Danville. www.danvilleareachamber.com BBR-Sunrise Alliance 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 7:30-8:30am. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Sunrise Alliance meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive. Danville. www.danvilleareachamber. com CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS Danville Veteran Service Organizations 8am-11am Every Saturday at Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley – in Danville – the VSOs jointly host a “Veterans Coffee Social” from 8AM until 11AM… Bring a friend or fellow Veteran and show them the museum - share some social time. Drop In - no reservations – all Veterans welcome… stop for a few minutes - or stay for hours! WW II Vet & Senior Docent Art Gaskns has pastries waiting for you! Please share information about our VMB /SRV Military Museum & Library open daily M-F from 9-3 and it’s free!

Please email your calendar events to the Sentinel at Info@valleysentinel.com by 5pm on the 15th of the month preceding publication month. Inclusion in the calendar pages is at the sole discretion of Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.

valleysentinel.com Tri-Valley Fly Fishers Visitors welcome to monthly meetings featuring guest speakers who share their knowledge of the sport. Meetings are held at 7:00 PM on the first Thursday of every month, September through June at the Livermore-Pleasanton Rod and Gun Club, 4000 Dagnino Road, Livermore, CA 94551. For more information please contact: Roger Perry, President of Tri-Valley Fly Fishers by email at President@Tri-valleyflyfishers/org Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. AAUW membership is open to all graduates of accredited four year colleges or universities and those holding an Associate Degree or equivalent. Prospective members are welcome and may contact Soni at 286-1737 for details. Visit daw-ca.aauw.net for meeting dates. Cancer workshops and support groups-Ongoing Most are free. Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue, Walnut Creek. Information / reservations call 925-933-0107 or visit www. cancersupportcommunity.net. Fibro? CFIDS? Chronic Pain? If these are familiar to you, call about the San Ramon Valley support group for people who need support, information, classes and friendship from people who know what it’s like. We like to laugh while getting well. Call 925-837-0510. Hope Hospice Grief Support Groups–Ongoing Hope Hospice provides support to help you understand and manage grief in a way that is healthy and appropriate. Our Grief Support Center is available to all community members at minimal or no cost. Information: visit www.HopeHospice. com or call 925-829-8770. Hospice of the East Bay Support groups and workshops for adults, children and teens experiencing grief after the death of a loved one. Classes will be offered at Hospice’s Administrative Offices: 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill and the Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation: 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Pre-registration is required for all groups and classes, except our drop-in group. To register, please call Hospice of the East Bay: (925) 887-5681. Information: www.hospiceeastbay.org Wind ‘n Sea Sailing Club Sailing training classes take place at members’ homes. Information: Call Jan at 925-837-3381. Forewomen Golf Association provides opportunities to play golf with other women who share the love of the game and also want to give back to our community through our charity program. FWGA is an associate club of the Northern California Golf Association (NCGA), not affiliated with any particular golf course. We offer five opportunities to play per week at East Bay courses. All levels welcome. For more information contact Cheryl Ramirez at communications@forewomengolf.org. Overcome inappropriate compulsive sexual behavior Avenue nonprofit ministry helps men overcome inappropriate compulsive sexual behavior and helps women heal from the betrayal of their relationship. Confidential groups for men and for women. No charge / donations accepted. Call (877-326-7000). www.AvenueResource.com.

July 2017 RECURRING Mondays: The Walnut Creek Garden Club Meets the second Monday of each month. Meeting begins at 9:30am with community and socializing from 10:30-11:00am. You do not need to be a gardener to join the club. The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Road, Walnut Creek. Information: californiagardenclubs. com/content/walnut-creek-garden-club or mslittle44@gmail.com Danville Rotary 12pm. Meets every Monday. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. Information: danvillerotary.org. San Ramon Alzheimer Support Group 7-9pm. Meets the second Monday of each month, except on holidays. Sponsored by the Alzheimer Association. People who know or are caregivers of Alzheimer victims can get information on how to help them through this difﬁcult time in life. San Ramon Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Information: 925973-3250. Sons In Retirement (Las Trampas Branch) Monthly Luncheon 11am. Meets the third Monday of each month, except for May and December. Make new friends, participate in fun activities. Make $15 luncheon reservations by calling 925-322-1160 by the preceding Wednesday. Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Dr, Walnut Creek. Information: visit www. Branch116.org. Tuesdays: Danville am Toastmasters 7-8:30am. Want to improve your speaking and presentation skills? Toastmasters can help! Meets every Tuesday in downtown Danville. www.4143.toastmastersclubs.org Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary 7am. Meets every Tuesday morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Information: dsvrotary.com. San Ramon Valley Geneological Society 10am. Meets every third Tuesday at the LDS Church, 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. http://srvgensoc.org Diablo View Toastmasters 8:15-9:15am. Meets every Tuesday. CMG Mortgage, 4th Floor Conference Room, 3160 Crow Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Information: 4160.toastmastersclubs.org. Walnut Creek Rotary 12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: rotarywc.org. ARF Pet Loss Support Group 5:30-7pm. Meets second Tuesday of every month. Register with Vicki at 925-887-5681 or vickis@hospiceeastbay.org. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net. Divorced and Separated Workshop 7- 8:30pm. A new workshop series for divorced and separated people is being held on at St. Joan of Arc Parish, 2601 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. Contact: Sue at smc9@ sbcglobal.net. 925 -819-1809. Prostate Cancer Group 7:30–9pm. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month. Drop-in prostate cancer group for men and their loved ones. San Ramon Regional Medical Center, South Building, West Day Room. 6001 Norris Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: 925.933.0107 or www.twc-bayarea.org/community-programs.html. Wednesdays: Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill.

Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost.net Hospice of the East Bay Drop-in Bereavement Support 4:30-6pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill. Information: 925-8875681 or visit www.hospiceeastbay. org. Hope Hospice Drop-In Grief Support Groups–Ongoing First and third Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6:00p.m. at Hope Hospice, 6377 Clark Avenue, Dublin. “There is no single correct way to grieve,” says Joe Lumello, Hope Hospice provides support to help you understand and manage grief in a way that is healthy and appropriate. Hope’s Grief Support Services manager. Participants may attend as frequently as needed or desired. It is offered free of charge although donations are accepted. Please contact Grief Support Services at 925-829-8770 for additional information. Sons in Retirement (San Ramon Valley chapter) Monthly Luncheon 10:30am; Social Hour, 11:35am meeting and lunch. Meets the 3rd Wed. of each month. Reservations, please email us at www.info@sir128.com by Friday prior to the luncheon. Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Rd., San Ramon. Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo. Info: alamorotary. org. Danville Toastmasters Club #1785 7:30-9pm. Meets every Wednesday. Room W204 at Diablo Valley College,1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon. Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com. San Ramon Valley Rotary 7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Blackhawk Country Club, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Info: sanramonvalleyrotary. com. Danville Lions Club 7pm. Meets the ﬁrst Wednesday at the Alamo Grill, 3160 Danville Blvd, Alamo, CA 94507. Visitors Welcome. Information: Truman Howard 925-7872565 truman.howard@gmail.com Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley 12pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month. Sign-in and social time begins at 11:30. Guests are welcome with lunch reservations. Faz Restaurant, 600 Hartz Ave., Danville. RSVP 925-275-2412. Info: www. srvexchangeclub.org Walnut Creek Host Lion’s Club 12:15pm. Meets the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Black Bear Diner, 700 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Information: walnutcreeklions.org. Blue Star Moms 7-9pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month to participate in service activities supporting sons/daughters serving in the military. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.org. Diablo Valley Quilters 7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests. Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters.com. Veterans of Foreign Wars 7pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925-362-9806 or vfwpost75.org. Diablo Singles Dance Club 7-10pm. Meets the last Wednesday

The Valley SenTinel of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $8, Guests $12. All welcome. 111N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Thursdays: Danville Alamo Garden Club Meets on the 2nd Thursday of the months between September and June starting at 9:15 am at the Alamo Women’s Club 1401 Danville Blvd, Alamo. If you have any questions, contact Susan at membershipvp@ dagc.us or go to our website: www. dagc.us. Danville Women’s Club 11am – 1pm. Meets third Thursdays of each month. Socializing begins at 11 a.m., with lunch following at 11:30, and a guest speaker at noon. 11-1, 242 Linda Mesa. Call Karen at 925831-9237 for reservation. San Ramon Valley Newcomers 11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest speaker at a local Tri-Valley restaurant. New and long-time adult residents are welcome. Reservations/information: susansgotbling@ sbcglobal.net or www.srvnc.com. Rotary Club of San Ramon 11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org. San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Club Thursday at Noon. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. www. kiwanis-srv.org Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church Room 3, 2   491 San Miguel Drive,  Walnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627. Diablo Valley Lions Club 7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of every month. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap.org. Fridays: Transitions-“Navigating Life’s Turning Points Together” 9-11:30am. Our group now has a new name, which has been changed from TENS to Transitions. Our mission is to encourage and support women from empty nest, to aging parents and everything in between. Community Presbyterian Church, Room 116, 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville. Information: Contact Donna Hill at hillmom3@ comcast.net Saturdays: Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America 7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org.

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Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am-12pm. Meets every 3rd Saturday. Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at 925-254-8349 or jgriehl@gmail.com. Free. All are welcome. Information: Howard Zalkin at 939-4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 933-6357. Danville Veteran Service Organizations 8am-11am Every Saturday at Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley – in Danville – the VSOs jointly host a “Veterans Coffee Social” from 8AM until 11AM… Bring a friend or fellow Veteran and show them the museum - share some social time. Drop In - no reservations – all Veterans welcome… stop for a few minutes - or stay for hours! WW II Vet & Senior Docent Art Gaskins has pastries waiting for you! Please share information about our VMB /SRV Military Museum & Library open daily M-F from 9-3 and it’ Sundays: Cars n Coffee: First Sunday of Every Month 8-10am. On the ﬁrst Sunday of every month, automotive enthusiasts gather in the parking lots of the Blackhawk Museum to share their vehicles and admire the other fabulous classic cars, hot rods, sports cars, exotics and anything else with wheels and a motor that promotes the car enthusiast hobby. Cars & Coffee is a year round event, rain or shine. The Museum opens at 9am on Cars & Coffee Sundays and there is a Docent-led tour at 2pm. Participating car owners receive two complimentary tickets to the Museum courtesy of our sponsors. Blackhawk Museum, 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. www. blackhawkmuseum.org

Help Wanted Risk Strategy Ofﬁcer: Oversee design & implementation of Credit Risk strategies. Master in Bus. Admin., Accounting or rltd. & 5 yrs. exp. in position offered or rltd. CV to: Bank of the West, 2527 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583. ATTN: HR or email careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA. Compliance Data and Reporting Analyst: Implementation of Bank’s compliance reporting and analysis systems technology infrastructure. Bachelor’s in Engr., Comp. Sci., or rltd. & 5 yrs. rltd. exp. Bank of the West. Job in San Ramon, CA 94583. CV to careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. IT EIM ETL Developer: MSc in Computer Applications, C.S., or rltd. & 3 yrs. rltd. exp. CV to Bank of the West, careers@bankofthewest.com. Job in San Ramon, CA.

Community News & Information Danville • Blackhawk Alamo • Diablo • San Ramon Publisher/Editor-Denise Rousset Advertising-Betty Overhoff Chief Financial Ofﬁcer-Jeff Gummere Graphic Designer-Laurie Prindle Auto-David & Judy Colman Intern-Veronica Yoo, SRVHS

925-820-6047

542 San Ramon Valley Blvd., #A Danville, CA 94526

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The Valley SenTinel

AUTO March 2009 July 2017

valleysentinel.com

2017 Hyundai Veloster Turbo By David and Judy Colman

Hyundai originally introduced the 3-door Veloster sports coupe with a rather anemic 132hp four cylinder engine that peaked at just 120 lb.-ft. of torque. Even with that handicap, the original version was a lot of fun to drive because of the car’s sporty design and ingenious packaging. Its pin point steering accuracy, racy seating position, and responsive manual transmission all coalesced into a spry and energetic combination that cried out for more horsepower. Unlike Toyota/Subaru - who have refused to turbocharge their sluggish 86/BRZ - Hyundai responded to the Veloster’s crying need by introducing a twin scroll Turbo version. This stunningly quick 201 hp upgrade of the base motor is also good for 195 lb.ft. of torque. Coupled to a slick shifting 6-speed manual gearbox, the Turbo transforms the Veloster into a genuine s p o r t s c a r. I t s exc e l l e n t acceleration and handling will match cars costing twice as much. Hyundai’s racy intentions are evident the second you lay eyes on its curvaceous lines. At the front, company stylists have borrowed heavily from Audi design language with an elliptical six sided grill opening that makes the Veloster look predatory. Muscular bulging flares front and rear endow the lightweight (2,765 lb.) coupe with a muscular stance that will instantly attract fans of the Fast and Furious. Under those flares lie diamond faced multi spoke alloy rims that offer

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intriguing design complexity. Each wheel plants a mildly sticky low profile Kumho Solus radial tire (225/40R18) on the pavement. With its low slung stance, stiff springs, and excellent torque vectoring control system, the Veloster is capable of exceeding the grip of its Kumho tires, which issue audible chirps as they reach their adhesion limit. Inside the cockpit, you’ll think you’ve been transported to the flight deck of a fighter jet.

seats feature side panels upholstered in Vitamin C to match the exterior. Finally, you notice the prominent “Turbo” notation embroidered in black on the driver’s outer orange seat bolster. The net effect here is entrancing, like a show car that somehow escaped its rotating display pavilion and actually ended up for sale. And how much outlay is required for this show winning display piece? If the Veloster had a German nameplate attached, it would easily retail for $40-60,000.

Our Veloster sported a stunning exterior shade called Vitamin C, an opalescent orange that is carried right through to the interior. When climbing aboard, the first item you notice are oversized, door mounted grab handles, painted to match the exterior finish. But instead of using gloss paint like the exterior, these handles are done in a grippy matte paint that makes them easy to grasp. This little touch reflects Hyundai’s exacting attention to detail. Once seated, you appreciate that the deeply bucketed front sport

Because it’s made in Ulsan, Korea, however, the base price of the Veloster Turbo is $22,600. Our test car, with its optional $2,700 Tech Package (Panoramic Sunroof, Navigation System with 7” Touchscreen) checked out at $26,260. Call it the deal of the 21st century. B u t t h e re ’s m o re o n offer here than visual cortex stimulation. More than the excitement of charging through the gears and peaking the turbo at 6800 rpm with each upshift. Because the Turbo Veloster is, in many ways, a remarkably practical

package. Start with that ever-so-useful third door, which is so inconspicuously incorporated on the passenger side that you wouldn’t know it existed by looking at the flush exterior surface. But it makes packing the kids in back ever so easy. You can even shepherd a couple of adults through this portal for short hops. And when you do some shopping, tossing the goods into the backseat is thankfully simplified by the expedient of this third door. Then too there’s the fuel saving penchant of the Veloster’s efficient Turbo motor, which returns 25 MPG around town and 33 MPG on the highway, and 28 MPG overall. The base model, nonturbo Veloster only exceeds

those numbers by 2 MPG. That’s hardly a savings worthy of foregoing the thrust of this affordable and enjoyable Veloster Turbo. 2017 HYUNDAI VELOSTER TURBO ENGINE: 1.6 liter inline 4, twin scroll turbo, direct injection HORSEPOWER: 201hp TORQUE: 195lb.-ft. FUEL CONSUMPTION: 25 MPG City/33 MPG Highway PRICE AS TESTED: $26,260 HYPES: Double Hydraulic Hood Struts, Sweet Manual G e a r b ox , Swe e t e r Tu r b o Motor GRIPES: Poor 3/4 Rear Vision STAR RATING: 10 Stars out of 10

Assemblywoman Baker Honors Sunﬂower Hill as the 16th Assembly District Nonproﬁt of the Year California Nonprofits Day Assemblywoman C a t h a r i n e B a ke r ( R- S a n Ramon) honors Sunflower Hill as the 2017 Nonprofit of the Year for the 16th Assembly District during a special Assembly ceremony at the State Capitol. “Sunflower Hill is a fitting, deserving recipient of our Non-Profit of the Year Award,” said Assemblywoman C a t h a r i n e B a ke r. “ T h i s local organization creates an environment of hope, greater independence, and

community connection for special needs adults. Our community is better and enriched by Sunflower Hill.” Sunflower Hill, a TriVa l l ey b a s e d n o n p ro f i t , provides programs and resident living for people with special needs. Sunflower H i l l o p e ra t e s S u n f l owe r Hill Gardens – a one-acre garden at Hagemann Ranch in Livermore that produced more than 9600 pounds of food in 2016. More than

70 percent of the Garden produce is donated to local f o o d s h e l t e rs l i ke O p e n Heart Kitchen and Tri-Valley Haven. In addition to this, two residential communities are now in development – one in Livermore and one in Pleasanton. Sunflower Hill is also creating vocational opportunities in horticulture for individuals with special needs and is currently working with Las Positas C o l l e g e o n a n o n - c re d i t certificate program.

is hosted by Cal Nonprofits and California Association of Nonprofits. These nonprofit leaders are part of the statewide a l l i a n c e o f ove r 10 , 0 0 0 organizations, representing and promoting California’s growing nonprofit sector and working to bring the full power of nonprofits to strengthening communities. Honorees are presented with a framed certificate from the State Assembly recognizing their outstanding contributions during a ceremony in the Assembly chambers.

valleysentinel.com

July 2017

The valley Sentinel

page 15

Summer Safety Tips - at Home and on the Roads By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

The historical rains we had this past winter may have ended the water shortage, but the combination of high vegetation and summer weather create a very dangerous fire threat. According to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), more than 3,400 Americans die each year in fires and approximately 17,500 are injured. So, what can you do to ensure that your home and family are fire safe? Outside your home, it’s very important to maintain a “firescape,” also known as a “defensible space.” You should create a good, clear buffer zone around your house. Within this buffer zone, make sure any potentially flammable materials are a minimum of 30 feet or more away from your home. All of the plants in your defensible space should be fire resistant. Check your rain gutters, eaves, and roofs to clear any stray leaves and needles. When cutting or mowing, keep a hose, container of water, or fire extinguisher accessible. Finally, always call your local

fire department when a fire occurs, no matter the size. Even if you have extinguished the fire, it is important for firefighters to inspect the area so they can ensure against repeat incidents. Also, make sure you store the direct phone number of your local fire department, and not just dial 911, as this will automatically route you to the call station closest to your location. Year-round fire danger exists inside your home as well. One way to prevent home fires is to equip your home with at least one smoke detector on every floor. FEMA recommends testing it monthly and keeping it free of dust. Also, replacing the battery at least once a year, which can be done at the same time you set your clocks forward for the spring, is highly recommended. To prevent electrical fires, FEMA recommends that you never overload circuits or extension cords and that cords and/or wires should never be placed under rugs, over nails or in high traffic areas. Shutting off and unplugging appliances at the slightest malfunction, and having them repaired by a professional or replaced, is also recommended. Bike and Pedestrian safety is also a significant concern during the summer time. With school out, youth are out all day long, not just before and after school hours. There were

an estimated 70,000 pedestrians injured in crashes in 2015, compared to 61,000 in 2006 — a nearly 15 percent increase over ten years. The bottom line is to watch out for pedestrians and be safe. Also, with nice weather, more bikers are on the roads. In 2015, 818 people lost their lives in bicycle/motor vehicle crashes, more than two people every day of the year in the U.S. Not only is it important for drivers to look out for bikers, but also for cyclists to take an extra careful look before making turns. Make sure to stop at stop signs and follow all traffic rules. Summer might be a carefree time of the year, but the National Safety Council (NSC) urges parents not to be carefree about the situations in which they allow their teens to drive. Memorial Day marks the start of a period commonly known as the 100 deadliest days for teens on the roads. From Memorial Day to Labor Day in 2012, nearly 1,000 people were killed in crashes involving teen drivers, according to NSC estimates based on data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. More than 550 of those killed were teens. Car crashes are the leading cause of death for teens in the U.S., and teens crash at three times the rate of more experienced drivers.

Possible reasons for the spike in these crashes include: • Summer driving tends to be more recreational and not as purposeful, such as driving to see friends rather than driving to school or work • Teens could be carrying friends more frequently and passengers increase the risk of a fatal crash involving a teen driver by at least 44% • Teens may stay out later at night, when crash risk is higher • With warmer weather and clearer conditions, teens may be tempted to speed Drivers and pedestrians should focus on the road, not their phones. Though this may seem like it is overstated, distracted driving is a serious issue. When you see the driver next to you looking at their phone, it’s no longer safe to assume they’re texting. New research from AT&T shows nearly 4-in-10 smartphone users tap into social media while driving. Almost 3-in-10 surf the net. And surprisingly, 1-in-10 video chat. 7-in-10 people engage in smartphone activities while driving. Texting and emailing are still the most prevalent. But other smartphone activity use behind the wheel is now common. Among social platforms, Facebook tops the list, with more than a quarter of those polled using the app while driving. About 1-in-7

Keep Yourself and Your Family Safe and Healthy This Summer Summer is a great time to enjoy indoor and outdoor activities but every summer, children in our community die or are injured from drowning. For adults and children alike, additional risks include heatrelated illnesses, diseases from bug bites and injuries from falls. Drowning is a leading cause of unintentional death in children ages 1 to 4, and the fifth leading cause of unintentional injury or death for people of all ages. From 2012-2016 Contra Costa saw 31 drowning deaths in adults and children. “It’s important that people remember to be safe and healthy this summer,” said Dr. Thomas Warne, Deputy Health Officer for Contra Costa Health Services. “Drowning deaths are devastating enough but near drowning can also have serious consequences including neurological damage.” Whether you pull an unconscious person from the water or if someone collapses and is not responding or breathing calling 911 should be your first action.

For drowning victims, reviving a person involves mouth-to-mouth resuscitation. Knowing how to safely perform mouth-to-mouth resuscitation is important for anyone spending time in and around water. When a person does not have a pulse, Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) can help provide victims the extra time needed to survive until an emergency vehicle arrives. “Providing CPR can double or maybe even triple a person’s chance of surviving.” said Warne. “Hands-only CPR is an easy and effective way for bystanders to help save lives.” C o n t ra C o s t a H e a l t h Services Emergency Medical S e r v i c e s d i v i s i o n o f f e rs resources and training around Hands-Only CPR training. Go to cchealth.org/ems/cpr.php for more information. To avoid summer injuries and illness, following simple Summer Safety Tips can make this time of year memorable for summer fun and not for a trip to the hospital.

See Summer Safety tips and these links for more information; Drowning Prevention: CDC at www.cdc.gov/safechild/ drowning CPR & First Aid: American Heart Association at www.cpr. heart.org Fall Prevention: National Council on Aging at www. ncoa.org/healthy-aging/fallsprevention Extreme Heat: CDC at www. cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat Mosquito Bites: CDC at www.cdc.gov/features/ stopmosquitoes Preventing Tick Bites: CDC at www.cdc.gov/lyme/prev Summer Safety Tips Water Safety For children ages 1 to 4 years, swimming pools pose the greatest risk. It is important to make safety a priority in and around the water. • Actively supervise children in or near water. • Make sure your family knows how to swim. • Secure pools with appropriate barriers, covers, and alarms.

• Know how to perform CPR – on adults and children. Beat the Heat Whether you are working or playing outside in the summer, if you are not used to the heat, or if the weather is hot, you can be at risk for a heat-related illness. Take steps to protect yourself: • Never ever leave kids or pets unattended in a car or other vehicle, even if the windows are cracked open • Wear loose, lightweight and light-colored clothing. • Take frequent water breaks. • Apply sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. • Stay cool with cool showers or baths. Stop Bug Bites and Disease Protect yourself and your family by preventing bites and diseases, like West Nile virus, which can be transmitted by insects. • When outdoors, use an effective insect repellent containing active ingredients with EPA approval as repellents for the skin or clothes.

said they’re on Twitter behind the wheel. Also with summer parties inevitable, please make sure to not drink and drive. In 2012, a total of 1,168 children age 14 and younger were killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes. Of those 1,168 fatalities, 239 (20%) occurred in alcoholimpaired driving crashes. It is not only dangerous to you, but to everyone on the road. Your safety is one of my highest priorities. I hope that you take all of these recommendations into consideration and make the safest choices for you and your family this summer. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Saranap, Parkmead, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos. cccounty.us or 925-957-8860. A Special Thanks to Summer intern Rahul Arockiaraj who contributed to this article.

• Check yourself and your children for ticks. No need to panic if you find one. There are several tick removal devices on the market, but a plain set of fine-tipped tweezers will remove a tick effectively. Prevent Injuries Each year emergency departments treat adults and children for falls at home and on the playground. Did you know that one in three older Americans falls every year? Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries for people aged 65+. • Discuss with your healthcare provider your risk for falls and programs and services that can help, especially if you are over 65 years of age. • Check to make sure that the surfaces under playground equipment are safe, soft, and well-maintained. • Supervise young children at all times around fall hazards, such as stairs, playground equipment, and even upstairs windows. • Use stair gates, which can help keep a busy, active child from taking a dangerous tumble.

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