The Valley Sentinel_June 2021

Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

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always for the community VOL 26 NO 4

June 2021

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SPOTLIGHT

Enlightening History of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley Explored Over the past twelve months, the Museum of the San Ramon Valley has offered free virtual presentations on the third Thursday of the month. This month on Thursday June 17 at 11:30 we are excited to offer a presentation on our history: 1996 the year the Depot moved.

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See HISTORY page 5

This photo of Castle Rock was taken from Diablo Foothills. For beautiful trails that provide shade and calm during the oncoming hot days of summer, visit Castle Rock Park which offers picnic areas, a ball field and swimming pool. For more information, please read Beverly Lane’s article on page 2. Photo by Edward MacKay.

Wilson’s Warbler (Cardellina pusilla)

By James M. Hale

The delightful, springtime song of Wilson’s Warbler. is a chattering, descending series of loud notes.

Their call is a short “chuff”. The vocalizations are highly diagnostic, and help to identify this species from other warblers. Ornithologist, Alexander Wilson, first described the species in 1811, as Muscicapa pusilla, from its type locality of southern New Jersey. He called it the “green black-capt flycatcher”.

After many taxonomic changes, it is currently recognized as Cardellina pusilla.

Cardellina is a diminutive Italian dialect for the European Goldfinch. The epithet pusilla means very small. Wilson’s Warbler ranges from just under four inches to almost five inches in length.

The wingspan ranges from five and one half to six and one half inches. They weigh five to ten grams. The plumage is greenish-

olive on top, with canary yellow underparts. The black head cap is characteristic of the male, with females lacking or possessing reduced caps.

Northern races are larger, west coast races are greener above and brighter yellow below.

T h re e s u b s p e c i e s a re recognized, although recent genetic studies indicate there could be six distinct breeding groups of Wilson’s Warbler.

Luxury resorts and residential developments in southern Baja, have destroyed and reduced the wintering habitat for the northwest coastal race, which has a distinctive orange-fringed cap. Their numbers have declined during the twentieth century due to this habitat loss.

Wilson’s Warbler breeds in northern Canada and the western United States.

Fa i r l y o p e n w o o d l a n d s , with an understory of brush and thickets in moist areas with streams, bogs, ponds, and wetlands, are preferred habitats. Wintering habitats in Mexico and Central America are widely varied from open clearings, coffee plantations, deciduous forests, mangroves, to anywhere they may find food, water, and cover. In all seasons, Wilson’s Warbler prefers secondary growth vegetation with riparian and wetland influence. Willow and alder thickets are a favorite habitat, particularly in Contra Costa County, where riparian habitat comes at a premium.

Nesting begins in March on the West Coast, and extends into August for Canadian populations. In some montane populations, the male Wilson’s Warbler is polygamous. The

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female constructs a cup nest hidden on the ground, or sometimes up to five feet above ground level in West Coat populations. The nest is made of vegetation that is lined with hair, feathers, and soft materials. Two to seven creamy, white eggs with reddish spots are laid, and incubated for eleven to fifteen days. The young are altricial, requiring much parental care.

After fledging in from eight to thirteen days, the parents tend to the young for several weeks.

Home and Garden page 6

See WARBLER page 9

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THE VALLEY SENTINEL June 2021

Cooling Hikes for Hot Summer Days

By Beverly Lane East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors

Two good regional parks to visit on hot summer days are Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area and adjacent Diablo Foothills Regional Park.

There are several ways to access the two parks. One is the Livorna Staging Area near the east end of Livorna Road in Alamo. Another is the Orchard Staging Area on Castle Rock Road past Northgate High School in Walnut Creek.

From the Livorna staging area, hikers may go north next to Stonegate homes on the Foothills Trail or east across the street to Serafix Road.

The Alamo Trail into the park starts on the left just past the intersection of Serafix and Stonegate Drive. Serafix was a famous racehorse that once stood at stud on the Rogers Ranch in Alamo.

If you park at the Orchard Staging Area, you can go through a gate at the end of the parking lot and travel straight into the park on the Castle Rock Trail. Or you can go to the end of Castle Rock Road and enter Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area.

You can also access Diablo Foothills via the Briones-toMt. Diablo Regional Trail.

There’s a trail entry at the east end of Marshall Drive in Walnut Creek by Indian Valley Elementary School.

Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area has lots of picnic areas, a ballfield, and a swimming pool. The pool is open this summer, but by preregistration only, because of pandemic-related concerns.

Yo u c a n r e g i s t e r u p to two weeks in advance to obtain an all-day swim pass good for 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on any date. Call the park district’s reservations department at 888-327-2757 Mondays through Fridays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. for information on availability and fees. Or you can register online at www.ebparks.org.

From the Castle Rock Road entrance, the Stage Road Trail passes through Castle Rock and on into Pine Canyon and Diablo Foothills.

It’s the shadiest part of the two parks, overlooked by the imposing Castle Rock, which is actually in Mt. Diablo State Park. Pine Creek is the boundary. Although informal trails lead up into the rocks, access is closed between Feb. 1 and July 31 annually.

Castle Rock - photo by Edward Mackay, East Bay Regional Parks

D i a b l o Fo o t h i l l s h a s miles of trails through mostly grasslands, with great views of the mountain.

Mount Diablo is a nesting area for peregrine falcons, which are fully protected birds under the state’s Fish & Game Code. About the size of crows, they prey on smaller birds and rodents. They can dive at more than 200 miles per hour, which makes them the world’s fastest animals.

Once near to extinction due to the pesticide DDT, peregrines have made an impressive comeback. The Peregrine Team, a volunteer group that monitors the birds, reports that they are doing well this year on Mt. Diablo and elsewhere. Look for members of the team along the trails; they are happy to talk about the birds and their activities.

And here’s a link to a video with lots of information: https://audiblemountdiablo. com.

Just in general, parkland summertime status can change on short notice, because of coronavirus and fire danger concerns. So it’s always a good idea to check on the park district website, www. ebparks.org, for up-to-date information while planning your trip.

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Dig Deep At Ardenwood

By Ned MacKay, East Bay Regional Park District

Dig Deep Farms, a nonprofit program of the Alameda County Deputy Sheriffs’ Activities League, has been granted a five-year lease to engage in organic heritage farming at East Bay Regional Park District’s Ardenwood Historic Farm in Fremont.

Dig Deep will continue a farming program at Ardenwood that had been operated by J.E. Perry Farms since the mid1980s. Perry Farms’ tenure ended when the owner retired in 2020.

“The lease is an important step to continue the historical farming at Ardenwood, and provide the public, especially youngsters, an opportunity to learn about the history of science and agriculture, and what life was like in the late 1800s and early 1900s, said Ayn Wieskamp, who represents Fremont on the park district’s board of directors.

“The farming operation provides the mechanical labor that produces all of the traditional heritage fruits and vegetables, all of which helps educate visitors about the history of agriculture in the region.”

Ardenwood is a 205-acre working farm owned by the city and operated by the park district. The original owner was George Patterson, a ‘49er who found wealth in the farm fields instead of the gold fields. The property includes a beautiful Victorian mansion and elaborate gardens.

Interpretive staff and volunteers guide visitors through the mansion, demonstrate historical farming practices and chores, and bring to life the world of a prosperous, early 20th century farming estate.

Ardenwood receives more than 120,000 visitors annually.

Dig Deep Farms uses traditional farming methods and has years of organic farming experience, according to Alameda County Supervisor Richard Valle. Its methods minimize waste and maximize nutrient rich soil and produce.

Dig Deep is expected to begin site preparations in June, with the first crop harvest in late summer or early fall.

Ardenwood Historic Farm is now open, but entry is permitted only with advance registration. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on weekends.

You can obtain more information and register up to two weeks in advance by phoning 888-327-2757, option 2 (Mondays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.), or you can

register online at www.ebparks. org. Groups should be single household only, please.

While you are at the website, by all means take the district’s 2021 Community Survey. Your responses help the park district to improve and expand its services.

The survey is one of the series of displays at the top left of the website home page. It’s available in English, Spanish, Chinese and Korean. To fill it out, go to www. ebparks.org/Survey2021 * * * The swim beaches at Del Valle Regional Park south of Livermore have reopened. This is the first time since 2019 that the lake is offering swimming.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the park is operating at 50% capacity.

Two caviats: please bring your own drinking water; the park’s water system is undergoing construction.

And since it’s mosquito season, mosquito repellant is advisable. * * *

It looks like we are in for another extremely hot, dry summer. So here are a few safety tips: • Be sure to carry plenty of water for both yourself, and your dog if you have one along. Once you are away from the trailheads and picnic areas, there are no sources of potable water.

• Protect yourself from the sun. Apply sunscreen and wear wide-brimmed headgear.

Nothing ruins a pleasant outing faster than sunburn.

• Take along a park map. They can be downloaded from the park district website, or obtained at trailhead information panels. And keep track of where you are. That way, if there’s a problem, you can tell the rangers via cell phone where to find you.

• Smoking is prohibited in the regional parks. This includes vaping.

• Be extremely careful with fire. Barbecuing is allowed in the established barbecue stands. Be sure that the coals are completely extinguished, then dispose of them only in the existing stand or pit, or the concrete receptacles designed for that purpose. Don’t dump coals in garbage cans or refuse bins. During extreme weather conditions, all open flames may be prohibited.

The emergency number in the regional parks is 911 or 510881-1121. For non-emergency business, call 510-881-1833.

valleysentinel.com

June 2021

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

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New Regional Park at Former Concord Naval Weapons Station named after First Black Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall agricultural history, natural The East Bay Regional Pa r k D i s t r i c t B o a r d o f Directors unanimously voted to name the new regional park at the former Concord N a v a l We a p o n s S t a t i o n “Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50.”

The name “Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50” recognizes the service of young African American sailors who served their country, both by serving in the US Military during WWII, and also by standing up to the US Military’s racially discriminatory policies of the day.

Their courage, and the advocacy of NAACP attorney Thurgood Marshall on their behalf, ultimately led to desegregation of the military and changed the course of history.

This naming itself is historic, as this is the first regional park in Contra Costa County to be named after an African American.

“The Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50 park name acknowledges this important Black American history and social justice significance,” said East Bay Regional Park District Board Director Beverley Lane who

has represented Concord on the East Bay Regional Park District Board since 1994.

“Thurgood Marshall brought national attention to the case that prompted the U.S. Secretary of the Navy to order desegregation of the U.S. Navy in 1946,” added Lane.

Several community organizations, including the NAACP and Friends of Port Chicago National Memorial support the naming of the park in honor of Thurgood Marshall and the Port Chicago 5 0 . T h e Pa r k D i s t r i c t ’ s citizen-led Parks Advisory Committee unanimously supported the name at its meeting on May 24. The

Swim Season Starts At Regional Parks

By Ned MacKay, East Bay Regional Parks

After a year of closures, there’s good news on the waterfront – East Bay Regional Park District will reopen some of its swim facilities starting Memorial Day weekend, though at limited capacity due to COVID-19 and available staffing.

Swim areas planned for opening are Contra Loma in Antioch, the swimming pool at Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area in Walnut Creek, Roberts Pool in the Oakland hills, and the swim lagoons at Cull Canyon in Castro Valley and Don Castro in Hayward.

The swim areas at Del Valle south of Livermore, Lake Anza at Tilden Park near Berkeley, and Lake Temescal in Oakland are closed currently, due to unsafe levels of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae). The swim beaches at Shadow Cliffs in Pleasanton and Quarry Lakes in Fremont will be closed all season due to low water levels.

Open water swimming is available at Crown Beach in Alameda and Keller Beach at Point Richmond, both on San Francisco Bay. There is no lifeguard service at Crown and Keller beaches; you swim at your own risk. At the other facilities, swimming is allowed only when lifeguards are present.

Except at Crown, Keller and Del Valle when it reopens, preregistration is required for all swim areas. Registration gets you an all-day swim pass from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Registration will be available up to two weeks in advance for any given date, and can be made online or by phone.

The district’s reservations

department is open Mondays through Fridays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and is closed on holidays. Phone 888-3272757, option 2. Or visit www. ebparks.org online. Capacity at Del Valle is determined by the number of cars let into the park, so swim reservations won’t be required.

The website also has detailed information about the park district’s swim facilities, hours and fees. Place the cursor on “Activities” at the top of the home page, then click on “Swimming.”

Once you’re at the beach or pool, there are some rules intended to enhance safety for park visitors. Where lifeguards are on duty, children 12 years old and under are not permitted in the swim areas unless accompanied by a responsible, actively supervising individual 16 ye a rs o r o l d e r. Yo u n g e r children must undergo a swim test before being allowed in deeper water. No alcoholic beverages, dogs, glass containers, fishing or barbecues are allowed in swim areas.

Lifeguard service always depends on weather, water level, water quality, staff availability and numbers of park visitors. The park district maintains and trains a highly professional lifeguard corps that is dedicated to maintaining its excellent safety record. In the event of an emergency, water related or otherwise, park visitors must cooperate with any instructions from lifeguards, police, firefighters or park rangers.

Swim availability will vary throughout the 2021

season as tier colors change and restrictions loosen, so if you plan for a swim, make sure to check the district web site’s swim page when planning your trip. * * * Because it was such a dry winter, the park district will issue occasional red flag warnings as part of its fire prevention efforts. This is especially likely during hot, dry weather with offshore winds.

In extreme cases, regional parks may be closed.

When that’s the case, please cooperate by changing your plans and visiting parks that remain open.

Here are some rules to observe during this season of high fire danger: • Barbecues and campfires are only permitted in designated day-use picnic areas, campgrounds or developed recreational areas.

Gas-fueled camp stoves are okay.

• There’s no smoking or vaping allowed in the regional parks.

• G a s o l i n e - p owe re d generators are prohibited.

• Don’t drive or park your vehicle in dry-grass areas. Heat from exhaust systems can ignite a wildfire.

• Don’t light an open fire on park property, except in barbecue stands and fire pits.

On extreme fire days, no open fires or barbecues of any kind are allowed.

• C o m p l e t e l y extinguish all burning fuel, then dispose of it in the concrete ash bins designed f o r t h a t p u r p o s e. D o n ’ t discard coals in regular trash bins.

City of Concord unanimously endorsed the park name at its May 29 City Council meeting.

“The new Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50 park name has both historical and representational significance,” said Congressman Mark DeSaulnier. “As a defender of the Port Chicago 50 in their historic fight against discrimination and wrongful conviction, Thurgood Marshall played an important role in their story. The trial, and Marshall’s role in it, helped to play a role in the desegregation of the Armed Forces. As the first African American Supreme Court justice, Marshall is more than deserving of this honor.”

The plan for the newly named “Thurgood Marshall Regional Park – Home of the Port Chicago 50” includes a joint visitor center with the National Park Service highlighting the history of the Port Chicago Naval Magazine National Memorial and the Diablo Valley, along with staging areas, and several miles of recreational trails for hiking, biking, and nature viewing. The Park District is partnering with the National Park Service on the future visitor center where this story can be told, along with all of the stories of this land, including its military history,

history and restoration, and the stories of the Chupcan people who lived here.

“We appreciate all of the community’s input and engagement on this naming process, and we hope the support will continue as we work with our partners and elected officials to raise the funding needed to build a world-class visitor center in the park to tell these i m p o r t a n t s t o r i e s, ” s a i d General Manager Sabrina Landreth.

T h e Pa r k D i s t r i c t i s currently designing road improvements and plans to open a portion of the expansive park south of Bailey Road within the next two to three years. The U.S. Navy and National Park Service officially transferred the 2,500 acres of open space to the Park District in 2019 after a two-decade process brought about by the decommissioning of the Concord Naval Weapons Station in the 1990s.

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 121,000 acres in 73 parks including over1,250 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and nature learning.

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THE VALLEY SENTINEL June 2021

valleysentinel.com

HAZELNUT SPREAD CAN

MAKE A MESS

OF RECYCLING, TOO. >

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

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

Do your part. Keep it clean and recycle smart!

recyclesmart.org

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June 2021

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

page 5

The Town of Danville’s Village Theatre Art Gallery Presents: Altered and & Reimagined

An exhibition featuring 10 Bay Area Collage & Assemblage Artists June 19-August 6, 2021 Use your imagination!

T h e Tow n o f D a n v i l l e ’s Village Theatre Art Gallery is pleased to present Altered & Reimagined, an art exhibit comprised of the creative, delightful, and very imaginative work of 10 Bay Area artists whose focus is on creating artwork out of repurposed objects— things old and new, into one-of-a-kind collages and sculptures. Artists included in this exhibition are Marsha Balian, Dyanna Dimick, Tom Franco, Dianne Hoffman,

Diana Krevsky, Sarah Lee, Kim Smith, Mary Southall, Karen Stanton and Kathryn Wills.

Also featured as part of this exhibition are two, l a r g e r - t h a n - l i f e, k i n e t i c mushroom sculptures, standing 12 feet tall with a cap-span of 14 feet wide, created by the FoldHaus Artist Collective. The mushrooms will be installed in the downtown area at t h e To w n G r e e n b y t h e Danville Community Center and Library and in front

of the Village Theatre & Art Gallery. By day, the mushrooms are an ethereal white, at night they come a l i ve, a s t h e m u s h ro o m caps open and close and a rainbow of LED lights cycle through from top to bottom back to the top again in a stunning display of art and engineering. The mushroom sculptures will be on display through Labor Day. An opening reception for this exhibition will be held on Saturday, June 19 from 7:00-9:00 p.m. Covid

Safety guidelines will be in effect and masks must be worn. The reception will take place on the patio in front of the Village Theatre at 233 Front St. in Danville, where there will be live m u s i c a n d re f re s h m e n t s and a chance to meet the artists and learn about their artwork. The Art Gallery will have its doors open all evening, allowing a limited number of people in at one time to view the artwork. As always, the reception is free and open to the public.

The Village Theatre and Art Gallery is currently open to visitors Tuesday through Thursday 1:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Fridays from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated. Please check the website www.danville. ca.gov/vtart for opening hours as health guidelines may change.

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

All Aboard as Totally Trains Returns to the Museum of the San Ramon Valley The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is happy to announce that model trains will be returning for their n i n t h ye a r. T h i s a l ways popular event will open on June 19 at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley located at 205 Railroad Ave. Danville.

The main layout will feature a village scene with models of Danville and

San Ramon’s present and past buildings. The newest addition is the Danville Presbyterian Church which was located on Front Street from 1876 to 1932. The trains will travelover trestles, bridges and through a mountain.

Totally Trains is one of our most popular exhibits.

We will again be offering our Totally Train’s Family pass

which for $15.00 allows you to visit the exhibit as many times as you like. So, All Aboard for summer fun!

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave Danville CA 94526. Our hours are Tuesday-Saturday 10-1, and, Sunday 12-3. You can contact the museum at museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750

Father’s Day Car Show

Sunday, June 20 from 8am to Noon After a year away, our Father’s Day Car Show is coming back! Early bird registration is open fto all.

The first 150 registered cars will receive a goodie bag with a Blackhawk Museum hat!

The Juke Joint has re t u r n e d a s t h e m u s i c a l entertainment for this year’s show. Juke Joint is an experienced, six piece HISTORY from page 1

The last train passed through the Danville station in 1978. With the ending of train service, the train depot became a Feed and Grain store. Over time, it fell into disrepair. A group of concerned citizens wanted to save this important piece of San Ramon Valley history.

It’s future survival was in question.

horn band paying tribute to the Classic Soul and R&B music of the 1960’s and 1970’s. Performances include tunes by such legendary artists as James Brown, Otis Redding and Wilson Pickett, some of the greatest dancing (and listening!) music ever written.

The Father’s Day Car Show is free to attend. The 25 years ago this month the Lopez Brothers home movers arrived in Danville to move the depot which is now the Museum of the San Ramon Valley. Its new home would be the corner of Railroad and Prospect.

Yes, the museum was not always at its present location.

The museum which was originally a Southern Pacific Depot was located a block further south at the corner where Lunardi’s is located today.

Ed Best, a longtime museum volunteer, former president of the museum, and a key member of the team that was involved in the move and restoration will give a first hand eye witness presentation of that eventful day. It is fair to say that

show is hosted in the parking lot below the Museum and provides an opportunity for everyone to come out, see some cool cars and listen to some great music. If you’d like to visit the Museum that day, you can purchase admission online below.

Also, fathers are free on Father’s Day.

HOSPICE: It’s not what you think it is.

Did you know that you can receive hospice or palliative care services and still…

• Go out to lunch with friends?

• Travel?

moving an old building in disrepair is not for the faint of heart. See pictures of the actual move as well as hear about some of the surprises the move encountered.

To attend this free online presentation please visit our website at museumsrv.org and go to the Events section or call 925 837-3750.

The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is located at 205 Railroad Ave Danville CA 94526. The museum is now open. Please check our website or call for days and times.

• Attend religious services or club meetings?

• Play golf, tennis or any physical activity you can handle?

• Enjoy life?

Call us for more info.

HospiceEastBay.org (925) 887-5693

Home and Garden page 6

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

Earthquake Warning California: “Drop, Cover and Hold” E a r t h q u a k e Wa r n i n g California is the country’s first publicly available, statewide warning system that could give California residents crucial seconds to take cover before you feel shaking.

Managed by the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services (Cal OES), Earthquake Warning California uses ground motion sensors from across the state to detect earthquakes before humans can feel them and can notify Californians to “Drop, Cover and Hold On” in advance of an earthquake.

To receive earthquake warnings, individuals and family members can download the MyShake App and ensure phone settings are adjusted to receive emergency alerts, including: • MyShake App: Free smartphone app that provides

iPhone and Android users with audio and visual warnings [magnitude 4.5 or higher and Modified Mercalli Intensity III (weak) shaking]. Available at in the Apple App and Google Play stores; • Android Earthquake Alerts: Android phones with updated operating systems are automatically subscribed to Android Earthquake Alerts, which uses the same technology as the MyShake App; and • Wireless Emergency Alerts (WEAs): No-cost text messages for emergency situations [magnitude 5.0 or higher and Modified Mercalli Intensity IV (light) shaking].

If you live in or travel to areas that could be impacted by an earthquake, preparation is vital, as these events can strike suddenly, at any time, with little warning.

June 2021 valleysentinel.com

The Value of Wood

By Steven Wynn

As a construction material, wood is as old as human civilization itself. Which makes recent headlines (and sticker shock) all the more ironic, as the economics of wood products mimic the global microchip shortage. Lumber and plywood prices have skyrocketed, as a construction boom lurches forward in spite of a supply chain throttled by the pandemic, labor shortages, and long lead times to build or expand mills.

In reality, the economics of supply and demand have always shaped the way we build with wood, and manage our forests. Medieval Europe struggled to keep pace with demand for oak and timber as deforestation required supplies to be imported from farther and farther away. By the 16th century, Scandinavia and the Baltics were exporting timber on a massive scale.

The entire world was reminded of Europe’s scarcity of old-growth timber in April 2019, when the tragic fire that engulfed Notre Dame destroyed its 300-foot wooden spire. Built in the 12th century with oldgrowth oak from forests that mostly no longer exist, Notre

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Dame faced an existential c r i s i s. A f t e r m u c h s o u l searching, it was announced that the spire would be rebuilt exactly as it was before. And just this past February, the painstaking process of selecting the required 1,000 old-growth trees from 200 French forests was completed. According to the Associated Press, “All 1,000 must be ‘harvested’ by the end of March, otherwise harmful tree sap and moisture could enter the wood fibers.” After that, the trunks all must be left out to dry for up to 18 months.

We h a v e l e a r n e d a great deal about how to manage forests responsibly.

T h e Fo re s t S t ewa rd s h i p Council’s (FSC) mission is “to promote environmentally sound, socially beneficial and economically prosperous management of the world’s forests.” Today, more than 40,000 American family forest owners are FSC certified, and total acreage of forests in the US remains relatively stable.

O u r h u m b l e p ro j e c t s are not Notre Dame, and we don’t need old-growth timber to achieve warmth and natural beauty in our designs. The diversity of FSCcertified species, finishes, and craftsmanship open the door to endless aesthetic possibilities.

On one recent Danville project, we clad the exterior of the new

home with stained, re-sawn cedar, reminiscent of an old barn but with a contemporary, vineyard motif. Inside, my partner Blair Barry, AIA created a modern, light-filled, wooden retreat. In the accompanying photo, vertical planks of tightknot smooth cedar encase the stairwell. The cedar is whitewashed, and unadorned – its beauty is effortlessly uplifting.

Traditional trim, at the windows or baseboard, would only distract from the effect of the whole. Instead, the same cedar wraps the windows and provides a flush base.

Black steel provides the only, minimal accent against the warmth of the wood. Simple twists of flat plate steel create the balustrade, and stair treads are solid plank oak. Builder Young & Burton Inc. provided the skilled hands that turned our vision into reality.

Whether it’s a French oak hand-selected for a sacred spire, or a fast-growing Southern pine harvested for lumber, wood is more than utility. It offers our most direct connection to the landscape around us, and defines our stewardship of it.

The beauty of wood runs deep, and alive, in our homes, and with responsible management our forests will continue to provide for generations to come.

valleysentinel.com

June 2021

Contra Costa Offers Required School Immunization at its COVID-19 Vaccine Clinics COVID-19 vaccination clinics operated by Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) on school campuses this summer will now also provide no-cost immunizations for t e t a n u s, d i p h t h e r i a a n d pertussis (Tdap) upon request.

Tdap is a required immunization for students entering the seventh grade in California, and the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC) also recommends a Tdap booster every 10 years for adults. Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis are severe infections t h a t , b e f o re w i d e s p re a d vaccination campaigns, would cause tens of thousands of deaths each year in the U.S., primarily in young children.

“With school-age students and their families now visiting our COVID-19 vaccination clinics at campuses around the county, now is the time to get ready for fall and make sure all of your required school immunizations are up to date,” said Dr. Chris Farnitano, Contra Costa County’s health officer.

Anyone who is 12 or older can receive a safe, effective, no-cost COVID-19 vaccine in Contra Costa County. The current health guidance from the CDC and CCHS supports patients receiving COVID-19 vaccine at the same time as other vaccinations, including children.

School-based vaccination clinics in the county are open from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. from Tuesday to Saturday and do not require appointments,

though patients who wish to reserve a time can do so by scheduling on the CCHS appointment page or phoning 833-829-2626.

Patients younger than 18 do require consent from a parent or guardian to get vaccinated – more information and downloadable consent forms are available at the clinics or the CCHS Get Vaccinated page.

Tdap boosters are available at clinics staffed by Contra Costa Health Services, including: • June 8 to June 12: Antioch Middle, De Anza High (Richmond), California High (San Ramon), Las Lomas High (Walnut Creek) • June 15 to June 19: Dougherty Valley High (San Ramon), Helms Middle (San Pablo), Pinole Valley High (Pinole), Pittsburg High • June 22 to June 26: Acalanes High (Lafayette), Dallas Ranch Middle (Antioch), Kennedy High (Richmond), S a n Ra m o n Va l l ey H i g h (Danville) • June 29 to July 3: California High (San Ramon), De Anza High (Richmond), Las Lomas High (Walnut Creek) • July 6 to July 10: Helms Middle (San Pablo), Dougherty Valley High (San Ramon) • July 13 to July 17: San Ramon Valley High (Danville) More information about coronavirus and vaccine is available at cchealth.org/ coronavirus.

Contra Costa Now Offering NoAppointment Service at All its COVID Vaccination Sites People can now get a COVID vaccine at all countyrun vaccination sites with or without an appointment.

Vaccination is available to everyone ages 16 and older regardless of whether they live in Contra Costa County or not. People can also choose whether they want a one-dose or two-dose vaccine at county sites.

“We are doing everything we can to remove barriers and make it as convenient and easy as possible for people to get vaccinated,” said Supervisor Diane Burgis, chair of the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors. “Vaccines don’t just protect your health – they give peace of mind and let us be with our friends and families without worrying.”

C o n t ra C o s t a H e a l t h Services (CCHS) runs more than a dozen vaccination clinic sites across the county, including many with convenient weekend and evening hours. People who prefer to book an appointment in advance can do so at covidvaccine.cchealth.org or call 833-829-2626.

More than 70% of the eligible population in Contra Costa County has gotten at least one dose of vaccine – already surpassing President Biden’s July 4 vaccination goal for the country. “ We ’ v e m a d e g r e a t progress, but we still have more work to do. I strongly urge everyone to get vaccinated so we can finish the job and end the pandemic,” Burgis said.

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

page 7

Making the Commitment

Local High School graduates honored to serve our country in uniform

These young graduating students ‘take an oath’ to honor and serve our country.

13 military recruits were honored on Sunday, May 23rd during a military swearing-in ceremony that took place at the Danville Library. These 13 recruits are graduating from Monte Vista, San Ramon, California, Dougherty Valley and Del Amigo High Schools and have made the highest commitment High School students can make, joining our United States Armed

Forces. Special thanks to the Veterans of Foreign Wars, American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of Diablo Valley, Marine Corps League, Blue Star Moms Chapter 101, T h e Ve t e r a n s M e m o r i a l Building and Communities of Danville, Alamo, San Ramon, and Blackhawk for aided in supporting and hosting this 22nd Annual Military Swearing-In Ceremony.

Sentinels of Freedom (SoF) was honored to be a part of this military swearing-in ceremony tradition, honoring over 100 graduating high school students over the years.

SoF and the community wish them each well and when they come home whether, in 4 years or 20 years, we will be here to welcome them with open arms.

Sentinels of Freedom is a national nonprofit organization that helps severely wounded post-9/11 Veterans with comprehensive personal support and financial assistance as they complete their higher education and achieve success in their post-military careers.

HELP OUR SENTINELS STORY CONTINUE TO MOVE FORWARD AND IMPACT OUR COMMUNITY. WWW.SENTINELSOFFREEDOM.ORG

Sentinel John W. Walding Business Owner

Sentinel Lina Efremenkova Louisiana State Univeristy

Sentinel Cardia Summers Columbia University

Sentinel Christopher Lamy Juris Doctorate

Contact Us at 925-380-6342 or info@sentinelsoffreedom.org

Community Input 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 925-820-6047.

Thank you!

—Denise Rousset, Publisher

Senior Living page 8

Jun

valleysentinel.com

June 2021

What does Medicare cover relating to COVID 19?

If you get a vaccination or are hospitalized with COVID 19 infection, here is some information to help you know what to expect in your billing.

Medicare covers items & services related to COVID-19 • F DA- a u t h o r i z e d COVID-19 vaccines: You pay no out-of-pocket costs.

• Lab tests for COVID-19: You pay no out-of-pocket costs.

• F DA- a u t h o r i z e d C OV I D - 1 9 a n t i b o d y ( o r “ s e ro l o g y ” ) t e s t s i f yo u were diagnosed with a known current or known prior COVID-19 infection o r s u s p e c t e d c u r re n t o r suspected past COVID-19 infection.

• Monoclonal antibody treatments for COVID-19.

• All medically necessary hospitalizations.

This includes if you’re

diagnosed with COVID-19 and might otherwise have been discharged from the hospital after an inpatient stay, but instead you need to stay in the hospital under quarantine. You’ll still pay for any hospital deductibles, copays, or coinsurances that apply.

• Expanded telehealth services during the Public Health Emergency If you have a Medicare Advantage Plan, you have access to these same benefits. Medicare allows these plans to waive costsharing for COVID-19 lab t e s t s. M a ny p l a n s o f f e r additional telehealth benefits and expanded benefits, like meal delivery or medical transport services. Check with your plan about your coverage and costs.

If you paid to get a COVID-19 vaccine

Join the Fan Club and help vulnerable Seniors stay safe this summer The hot weather will soon be here and everyone needs to take care of themselves in the heat, but it’s a challenge for vulnerable seniors who don’t have air conditioning.

That’s why we are inviting you to help by joining the Fan Club.

Donate a new fan and we’ll deliver it to our seniors in need. Donations can be sent directly to Meals on Wheels Diablo Region through Target, Amazon, or any other online retailer or

can be dropped off in person at 1300 Civic Dr., Walnut Creek between the hours of 9am-4pm, Monday through Friday.

Thanks for helping seniors beat the heat this summer.

P.S. Seniors also need air purifiers, too. They must be new and can be delivered or dropped off at MOW Diablo Region, 1300 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek between the hours of 9am-4pm, Monday through Friday.

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When you get a COVID-19 vaccine, your provider can’t charge you for an office visit or other fee if the vaccine is the only medical service you get. If you get other medical services at the same time you get the COVID-19 vaccine, you may owe a copayment or deductible for those services.

If you paid a fee or got a bill for a COVID-19 vaccine, check this list to see if your provider should have charged you: - Check the receipts a n d s t a t e m e n t s yo u g e t from your provider for any mistakes.

- Call your provider’s office to ask about any charges you think are incorrect. The person you speak to may help you better understand the services you got, or realize they made a billing error.

- If you have Original M e d i c a re, rev i ew yo u r “Medicare Summary Notice” for errors. Report anything suspicious to Medicare by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1800-633-4227).

- If you have other coverage like a Medicare Advantage Plan, review your “Explanation of Benefits.”

Report anything suspicious to your insurer.

If you think your provider incorrectly charged you for the COVID-19 vaccine, ask them for a refund. If you think your provider charged you for an office visit or other fee, but the only service you got was a COVID-19 vaccine, report them to the Office of the Inspector General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS or visiting TIPS.HHS.GOV Be alert for scammers trying to steal your Medicare Number M e d i c a re c ove rs t h e vaccine at no cost to you, so if anyone asks you for your Medicare Number to get access to the vaccine, you can bet it’s a scam.

Here’s what to know: • You can’t pay to put your name on a list to get the vaccine.

• You can’t pay to get access to a vaccine.

• Don’t share your personal or financial information if someone calls, texts, or emails you promising access to the vaccine for a fee.

Scammers may use the C OV I D - 1 9 p u b l i c h e a l t h emergency to take advantage o f p e o p l e w h i l e t h ey ’ re distracted. As always, guard your Medicare card like a credit card, check Medicare claims summary forms for e r ro rs. I f s o m e o n e c a l l s asking for your Medicare Number, hang up.

How to stay up to date • CDC.gov/coronavirus has the latest public health and safety information from CDC and for the overarching medical and health provider community on COVID-19.

• U S A . g o v h a s t h e latest information about what the U.S. Government is doing in response to COVID-1

Get to know the Danville Senior Center The Town of Danville strives to offer programs and services which provide p o s i t i ve, e n j oya b l e, a n d gratifying experiences for older adults within this community. Those programs include: Senior CC Cafe’ Friday Frozen Meal Program (PDF): Ad u l t s 6 0 a n d ove r c a n receive 5 frozen meals and 2 refrigerated meals weekly at the Senior Center for a suggested donation of $3 meal, a total of $21 each week. For more information,

please call: (925) 314-3430.

Rotating frozen meal menus: Weeks 1 - 4, Weeks 5 - 8 Special Interest Classes: Programs and activities which provide an opportunity to learn new skills, foster human development, and provide recreational experiences.

Health and Fitness Programs: Activities which engage your mind and body to improve healthy living.

C o n t ra C o s t a H e a l t h I n s u ra n c e C o u n s e l i n g & Advocacy Program provides free health insurance

counseling to our seniors year-round as well as monthly “ We l c o m e t o M e d i c a re ” classes.

The Senior Center is l o c a t e d a t T h e Ve t e ra n s Memorial Building, 115 E Prospect Ave, Danville, CA 94526 For more information please call the Danville Senior Center at (925) 314-3430 or visit online at www.danville. ca.gov/recguide. You can also email the Center at seniors@ danville.ca.gov.

Alamo Votes To Fund More Police Services Preliminary results of the May 4th election show that Alamo residents overwhelmingly supported Measure K, a ballot measure t o i n c re a s e f u n d i n g f o r police services. 82.1% of the votes cast were in favor of raising taxes to continue enhanced police services in the Alamo Police Services P2B area. With this election the current annual tax of $18 per household will rise to to $67 for residential parcels and $200 for commercial parcels.

The P2B Police District was originally created in 1970 through a voter initiative to increase police services. P2B covers the west side of Alamo, South of Hillgrade Avenue, all neighborhoods off of Livorna Road and Miranda Avenue, and the Stone Valley Road neighborhoods up to Round Hill Country Club on the north side of Stone Valley, and all the way to Monte Vista on the south side. There are 3,400 homes in the P2B area.

A dedicated Alamo officer was funded through t h e o r i g i n a l P 2 B p a rc e l t a x , w h i c h wa s $ 1 8 p e r household when approved by Alamo voters back in 1981.

It has never been increased.

As costs rose, this tax no longer could sustain the cost of a deputy and for the past several years the P2B District had been running at a $50,000-$70,000 deficit, drawing upon reserves which were eventually exhausted.

valleysentinel.com

June 2021

Town Launches Online Engagement Platform Danville seeks community input for Housing Element Update The Danville community has a new way to connect with their Town government.

The newly launched www.

DanvilleTownTalks.org expands the community’s options for providing input, ideas, feedback, and comments on local issues.

The first project to feature on the new site will be Danville’s statemandated Housing Element Update. Residents can complete surveys and submit comments through the website or add comments and ideas via text.

The Town has opted to use ‘Bang the Table’ for the engagement platform, a company that was founded to increase community participation. It provides online engagement for local governments around the globe

and has over 10.5 million community participants.

“We’ve observed during the pandemic that our residents appreciate the ability to participate and weigh in on Town issues at a time and place that is more convenient for them. I’m excited about the new site’s ability to expand the range of engagement and feedback options for our community members”, said Town Manager Joe Calabrigo.

With the State of California declaring a ‘housing supply crisis’ and holding all local communities accountable for accommodating an assigned housing target, regardless of available land capacity, the Town wants to involve as much of the community as possible in the

Town’s state-mandated Housing Element Update. The Town aims to harness community feedback to create a plan that reflects Danville’s core planning values while meeting regional and statemandated housing goals.

The Town will also provide workshops virtually and inperson (when it is safe to do so), online community surveys, and a housing simulation tool. Moving forward through the process, the Town will also seek community feedback in the identification of sites to accommodate future growth and the review of the Draft Housing Element.

For additional information, contact Public Information Officer Nicola Shihab at (925) 314-3336 or nshihab@danville. ca.gov.

Town of Danville and Kiwanis Club to Partner for Labor Day Weekend Parade

September date allows additional time for event planning and increased vaccinations of our state and Kiwanis in

As life continues to move back towards normalcy, the Town continues to work with community partners to find creative ways to keep the Danville spirit alive. While prioritizing the need to maintain community safety, event planning continues to adjust accordingly. After discussions between the Town of Danville and the Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley, we are excited to announce plans for a Labor Day Weekend Parade on Saturday, September 4, 2021, in downtown Danville. The event is being planned within State and County safety guidelines.

Always a popular summer event, the Kiwanis-Danville 4th of July Parade was recently canceled for 2021. This mutual decision by the event organizer, the Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley and the Town, was driven by uncertainty regarding how or whether the State would be permitting large-scale outdoor events. The Kiwanis Club manages logistics and volunteers for the parade while the Town financially WARBLER from page 1

W i l s o n ’ s Wa r b l e r i s a frequent host of the nest parasite, the Brown-headed Cowbird. The cowbird female lays her egg or eggs in the warblers nest, and the hatchling cowbird lifts the warbler’s eggs out of the nest to reduce sibling competition.

I have witnessed the two smaller Wilson’s Warbler parents raising a young nestling cowbird chick that is three times their size.

supports the event and provides resources and staffing. An event of this magnitude, which routinely draws around 40,000 spectators from around the Bay Area, requires months of planning and logistics including multi-jurisdictional police support, fire and emergency medical services, road closures and traffic management, as well as additional garbage receptacles, street sweepers, signage, and portable restrooms.

In addition, the event organizers need to secure sponsors and enlist parade entries. With the proximity of the State’s June 15 reopening date to July 4th, a determination was made in early May, that there wasn’t enough time to safely plan a large-scale event for July 4th this year.

Kiwanian, Rob Goldstein said “We are absolutely excited to celebrate July 4th on September 4th, what’s a few months to ensure the safety of our community? We all deserve to have the best and biggest parade in the Bay Area in celebration of the reopening

partnership with the Town of Danville is excited to deliver the event. We can make this year’s Labor Day parade a LABOR of love for our great Town”. He added, “Kiwanis of the San Ramon Valley looks forward to the July 4, 2022 parade”.

Town staff continues to work with event organizers to monitor what activities are safe and realistic to implement and are hopeful that more events will return as the county continues to move forward. A number of other event organizers for community events have elected to cancel their events this year including the Memorial Day Ceremony, Danville Summerfest, Hot Summer Sundays Car Shows, and Danville d’Elegance Car Show.

As we continue to move forward, the latest information on all Town events can be found on the Town’s website calendar at www.danville.ca.gov/calendar.

For additional information, contact Lianna Adauto at (925) 314-3309 or ladauto@danville. ca.gov

The dagger-like beak of Wilson’s Warbler suggests their insectivorous diet. Worms, beetles, bugs, spiders, and other invertebrates comprise their diet. Berries and willow catkins, or buds are sometimes consumed by this active forager.

Most prey is gleaned from leaves, twigs, or the ground.

Occasionally aerial insects are caught by flycatching or sallying (perch-hunting). It was difficult and fortunate for me to capture the image of the male Wilson’s Warbler as it

flitted about in search of food.

The oldest known Wilson’s Warbler was a male that was banded in California in 2000, and recaptured in 2008. It was at least eight years and eleven months old. Climate change will have a negative impact on northern and montane breeding populations.

James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Please visit his website at www. dochale.com

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

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Second (Indianhead) Division Association, Inc. Annual Reunion The Second (Indianhead) Division Association is searching for anyone who served in the Army's 2nd Infantry Division at any time. For information about the association and our 99th annual reunion in Kansas City, Missouri from September 29 - October 3, 2021; visit our website at www.2ida.org or contact Bob Haynes at 2idahq@comcast. net and (224) 225-1202.

Vintage Jewelry Wedding Jewelry &

Unique Gifts

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www.etsy.com/shop/vintagejewelryetal

Advertise in The Valley Sentinel!

For information, please contact Denise Rousset at 925-820-6047 or email info@valleysentinel.com.

Family Caregiver Education Series A FREE COMMUNIT Y SERVICE FROM HOPE HOSPICE

If you’re caring for an elderly family member, Hope Hospice is here to help with a free education series, now offered as interactive webinars on Zoom. Recordings of past events are available on our website, too.

Thursday, July 8, 10–11:30 a.m.

“Handling Grief and Loss” A local marriage and family therapist will discuss coping strategies to help both during the final stages of life and after a loved one has passed.

Thursday, August 12, 10–11:30 a.m.

“Normal Aging Versus Signs of Dementia” As we age, our brains and our bodies undergo changes, including some decline of memory and cognition. Where do we draw the line between normal effects of aging and more serious symptoms that should be evaluated by a doctor? Hope Hospice’s dementia specialists will offer insight in this webinar.

Register in advance HopeHospice.com/family | (925) 829-8770

be kind to the environment please recycle this newspaper

page 10

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

AUTO March 2009 June 2021

valleysentinel.com

2021 Mazda CX-5 Signature AWD Sizzles

By David and Judy Colman

Let’s say you’re a sports car enthusiast. You’ve been thinking about buying Mazda’s iconic MX-5 Miata, but you can’t swing the deal because you’ve got a family to transport and the tiny two-seater’s interior will barely hold two adults and a box of Kleenex. On top of that, the condensed trunk of Mazda’s trophy sports car is good for just 5 cubic feet of storage. Well, here’s an idea that might sound crazy at first - reset your sights on the Mazda CX-5. This diminutive crossover, similar in price range ($26,545-$37,405) to the MX-5, will cater to all your family transit needs while devouring pavement with the ferocity of a Miata.

And, with 30.5 cubic feet of cargo room, this hatchback’s flat storage floor will hold 6 times the stuff you can pack into a Miata. If you raise the CX-5’s folding rear seats, you can pack a family of 5 inside the sleek cabin, and still have suitable suitcase space left over in back. Opt for the top echelon Signature AWD CX-5 like the one we drove, and the

rear hatch door will rise and shut at the press of a button.

What differentiates the CX-5 from every other compact crossover in this otherwise boring segment is its devotion to Mazda’s precise, communicative, invigorating engineering DNA. That family chromosomal strand is every bit as evident in the CX-5 as it is in the MX-5. In practical driving terms, this means that the steering feedback is sublime, the engine response is instantaneous, and the ability to shred curves borders on the phenomenal. Not for nothing has Car&Driver elevated the CX-5 to their vaunted 10 Best list for 2021. We particularly enjoyed all the fine leather and techno sizzle of the top line Signature model, which retailed for $39,225. That total included an up-charge of $595 for Soul Red Crystal metallic paint, a deep candy apple shade Mazda has been painting its Daytona Prototype winners in the IMSA sports car series.

New for 2021 in the CX-5 line is a 10.3 inch infotainment system screen which replaces the former 7 inch spread.

The larger screen now displays a Mazda Connect interface which brings you an assortment of Mazda Connected Services such as a WiFi hotspot, and access to remote vehicle functions through a smartphone app.

Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are now standard, but the WiFi service is subscription based. However, SiriusXM service is provided for a 3 month free trial, as is 3 years of SiriusXM traffic and travel information. The XM tunes sound crystal clear on the Signature model’s 10 speaker Bose AM/FM/HD/SAT tuner system. Station selection is moderated by a multi-function Commander Control located atop the transmission tunnel.

T h i s d ev i c e h a s p rove n itself antithetical to logical operation. It unnecessarily complicates simple tasks like changing your station on SiriusXM. Such choice requires you to depress the Commander in order to select channel choices, and the sequence of this operation is by no means clearly demarcated.

T h a n k f u l l y, n o s u c h stumbling blocks interfere with your pursuit of apexes on a twisting back road. Mazda equips the Signature CX-5 with Toyo A35 radials (225/55R19) which are surprisingly adhesive for mud & snow rated rubber.

In fact, these tires are glued to the pavement by the CX-5’s advanced suspension system, which is independently sprung front and rear, equipped with stabilizer bars front and rear, and held in strict check by Mazda’s patented “G-Vectoring Control Plus” system of adaptive thrust

Ready, Set, Summer!

Register now for summer camps and classes Registration is currently open for a variety of summer camps and classes through the Town of Danville’s Recreation, Arts and Community Services programs. Summer programs run through August 6, 2021.

Registration is available by visiting www.danville.ca.gov/ recguide or by calling the Danville Community Center at (925) 314-3400. Space is limited.

The Town provides day camps and classes that fuel emerging interests and talents

while providing a safe and nurturing community, hosted by exceptional staff, facilities, and parks.

Whether your child is making lasting friendships, learning how to work as part of a team, gaining independence, or developing the confidence to try new t h i n g s, o n e t h i n g i s f o r certain, the Town of Danville is offering experiences they won’t forget.

Information regarding summer camps, classes and

events will be available through the Town of Danville’s social media channels.

I n s t a g ra m : @ danvilleparksca and @ townofdanvilleca F a c e b o o k : To w n o f Danville, CA Website: www.danville. ca.gov For more information, contact the Danville Community Center at (925) 314-3400 or email recreation@ danville.ca.gov.

modulation. But what really puts the CX-5 in a class of its own is its electric power assisted steering, which provides exceptional feedback at the steering wheel and allows you to place the front wheels on each apex with complete confidence.

You can buy an entry level Sport CX-5 for just $26,545, but it won’t provide you with the kind of power this chassis is capable of handling. The Sport version, as well as the $28,285 Touring and the (new for 2021) $30,130 Carbon model all drive just the front wheels. They do so with a normally aspirated 187hp four that is unlikely to up your heart rate. However, should you opt for any of the upperlevel models (GT, Carbon Edition Turbo, GT Reserve, and Signature), Mazda adds allwheel-drive, and dumps the base motor in favor of a 250hp intercooled and turbocharged inline 4. This Skyactiv tweaked powerplant drives through

a paddle-shifted 6 speed automatic transmission. Its 250hp and 320lb.-ft. torque produce a 0-60mph run of 6.1 seconds, a governed top speed of 130mph, and a standing start quarter mile run of 14.7 seconds at 94mph. Not only is the CX-5 Signature AWD family-practical and handsome to behold, but sneaky fast in a Miata sort of way no one else but you needs to know about.

2 0 21 M A Z D A C X - 5 SIGNATURE AWD ENGINE: 2.5 liter inline 4, intercooled and turbocharged H O R S E P OW E R : 250hp@5000rpm TORQUE: 320lb.ft.@2500rpm FUEL CONSUMPTION: 22MPG City/27MPG Highway PRICE AS TESTED: $39,225 HYPES: Surgical Handling, Deceptively Spacious Inside GRIPES: Commander Control Kaput STAR RATING: 9 Stars out of 10

Events and News Bits Saturday, June 12, 2021 9:30 - 12:15. Mt. Diablo branch, California Writers Club virtual meeting Liz Tucker will present “Writing Deeper into Theme” at the virtual meeting of the Diablo branch of the California Writers Club on Saturday, June 12, 2021.

Register online at https:// cwcmtdiablo.org/current-cwcmt-diablo-meeting Once registered, you will receive a link to join the Zoom meeting. https://cwcmtdiablo. org Monday, July 26, 8am 11am. Hope Hospice Sneakers and Paws event Everyone is welcome to join us (with or without your pet) for an easy ADA-

friendly walk around the Creekside golf course path.

Get your exercise AND raise funds for the Hospice East Bay Music Therapy Program a n d Ro s s m o o r Re s p i t e Fund!Registration is $20 which includes a raffle ticket, refreshments, doggie treats and more. If you are unable to join us for the event, please consider sponsoring a friend who is participating. Creekside Clubhouse, Fairway Room,1010 Stanley Dollar Drive, Rossmoor. Visit our website for details.Register Online at www.HospiceEastBay.org/ sneakersandpaws Please contact Annie Lobo with questions at annl@ hospiceeastbay.org or 925 525-3357.

valleysentinel.com

June 2021

THE VALLEY SENTINEL

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Connecting the Community: Contra Costa Television

By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

For over a year now, the Coronavirus pandemic has forced County procedures to be modified. Committees and advisory bodies are now held exclusively via v i r t u a l m e e t i n g s, a s a re our Board of Supervisors m e e t i n g s. D e s p i t e t h e s e changes, however, staying up to date on what transpires in the Board Chambers is more important than ever.

Fortunately, there has always been a way to catch every minute of each meeting – even when you can’t be there in person.

Contra Costa County is proud to say that we offer live television to our constituents in the form of Contra Costa Television (CCTV), with programming being developed at and broadcast from the CCTV studios in Martinez.

CCTV, the flagship channel of Contra Costa County’s cable television programming, is your all-access pass to all the functions and proceedings of the County and many local cities’ governments. In addition to essential County government affairs, CCTV also provides interesting programs, shows, and special events.

Perhaps CCTV’s most notable show is “Veterans’ Voices,” a monthly live, callin talk show, focusing on the issues veterans face as they transition back to civilian life. “Veterans’ Voices” is hosted by our County Veterans Service Officer

Mobile “Promise Pass” Incentivizes Spending at Nearly 100 Local Businesses Throughout the Region The pandemic may be waning, but local businesses are still teetering. To address this challenge, the East Bay cities of Dublin, Livermore, P l e a s a n t o n , S a n Ra m o n and the Town of Danville, have partnered with Visit Tri-Valley (VTV) to launch an unprecedented regional campaign to drive spending in local businesses. Dubbed “To Tri-Valley with Love,” the campaign asks residents and visitors alike to spend at least $25 per week at local businesses instead of online and in big-box stores.

Sweetening the deal, the cities have created a mobile Promise Pass that offers a slew of discounts at nearly 100 businesses, with new offers added regularly. The Promise Pass was created to inspire spending within the Tri-Valley community to

help buoy local businesses to see them through the final stages of the global COVID-19 pandemic.

“The beauty of this campaign is that it connects people,” says Visit Tri-Valley President and CEO Tracy Farhad. “As a community, we are all intimately connected and equally responsible for maintaining this region’s vibrancy and quality of life, of which our local shops, restaurants and cultural institutions are an indelible part. It’s time to step away from our internet devices, get outside and reconnect with each other!”

The free “Promise Pass” can be accessed online at www.ToTriValleyWithLove. com or on any type of mobile device - no need to download any apps.

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For information, please contact Denise Rousset at 925-820-6047 or email info@valleysentinel.com.

Nathan Johnson, a veteran himself. Each month’s show focuses on a specific topic, such as suicide prevention, mental health, and entering the workforce following one’s time in the service. The show brings in guests, and takes calls, emails, and live chat messages from viewers. If you have questions or want to suggest ideas for the show, you can contact our Veterans Service Office at 925-3131481.

Veterans Voices can be viewed on CCTV (Channels 27, 32, and 99) every second Monday at 7:00 p.m.

Viewers can also watch the show on CCTV’s website at www.contracostatv.org/ veteransvoices, on YouTube ‘Veterans Voices of Contra C o s t a ’ o r o n Fa c e b o o k ‘VeteransVoices1’. To learn more, visit the County website a t w w w. c c c o u n t y. c a . g ov under the CCTV tab, and click “Veteran’s Voices”.

I encourage everyone to tune into our Board of Supervisor meetings. With CCTV, you can watch our weekly Tuesday morning meetings live from the County website (www.contracosta. ca.gov), or on the television providers listed below. Follow along by downloading the meeting agenda on the County website as well. If

AdvAnced LAser

If you are interested in being part of the visioning effort, please let CCTV know by email at CCTV@contracostatv. org. Contra Costa County’s Board of Supervisors and staff at CCTV look forward to your involvement and support.

In the meantime, CCTV is providing support to those whose programs were airing on the public access channels.

If you were among those producing shows, drop CCTV a note at CCTV@contracostatv. org and they will help your viewers find your programs.

U n t i l t h e n ex t p h a s e o f community programming has been determined, CCTV remains committed to keeping the channel available to current producers. For more information, CCTV can be reached at 925-313-1182.

Production Manager Chris Verdugo can be reached directly at chris.verdugo@ contracostatv.org.

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.

you’re unable to tune in live, recorded videos are available on the Board’s website. CCTV is available to television subscribers of AT&T U-verse on Channel 99. Comcast subscribers can watch CCTV on Channel 27. On Astound, CCTV is Channel 32.

For individuals who wish to address the Board during Public Comment or with respect to an agenda item that is on the agenda, call 888-251-2949 followed by the access code 1672589#. To indicate you’d like to speak on an agenda item, push “#2” on your phone. Meetings of the Board of Supervisors are closed-captioned in real time.

Public comment generally will be limited to two minutes.

Cable TV operators are no longer providing community access cable TV services in Contra Costa County, however, the County will soon be sponsoring an effort to help change the future of community television.

Community Access Television includes Public, Education, and Government programming and is sometimes referred to as PEG programming. It is supported through fees collected from cable television operators.

Community Access Television is a resource for everyone in the County, and your ideas are needed as the future unfolds.

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THE VALLEY SENTINEL June 2021

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