The Valley Sentinel_Feb. 2015 by Sentinel Newspapers

Monarch Butterflies at Ardenwood Garden Tours at the Botanic Garden Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

Valley

The

Sentinel

The Art of Gyotaku at Crab Cove

Look inside for the latest ... plus more activities for everyone Regional Nature in Your Regional in Parks! Activity Guide!

Bird Watching & Volunteer Activities

always for the community VOL 20, NO 2 February 2015

www.valleysentinel.com

SPOTLIGHT

Steve Simpkins Matt Snyder Pete Villa

Matt Snyder from California High School wins the 2014 Pete Villa Award The Rotary Club of Danville held its 18th annual Pete Villa awards luncheon on Monday, December 15th. The winner was Matt Snyder from California High School. The award, named

ECRWSS

PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID DANVILLE, CA PERMIT NO. 70

See AWARD page 4

View of Carquinez Strait from the East Bay Regional Park Franklin Ridge Trail near Martinez. Please see page 15 for information about the 2015 EBRPD Trails Challenge: Photo by Marc Crumpler.

New newspaper group unfolds in East Bay the Pleasant Hill-based paper

Postal Customer

By Peggy Spear

Sentinel Newspapers, Inc. 390 Diablo Road, Ste. 145 Danville, CA 94526 925-820-6047

The media landscape in the East Bay is shifting again, as five local community papers are banding together to create the new Contra Costa Community News Group. Publishers from the Clayton Pioneer, Concord Pioneer, Lamorinda Weekly, Community Focus and Valley Sentinel launched the new CCCNG late in 2014, mainly to provide a more cost effective alternative to national and regional advertisers. The combined circulation of the new enterprise is 150,000 copies delivered to homes and businesses in central Contra Costa County. But the founders of the new association say the end result will be better coverage for readers. “CCCNG can help strengthen our community newspapers with added revenue,” says Community Focus publisher Elena Hutslar, who runs

with Jennifer Neys and Rebecca Coburn. That revenue, according to Pioneer Editor and Publisher Tamara Steiner, will result in better papers. “More revenue means more resources for more and better news coverage.” Wendy Scheck, associate publisher of the Lamorinda Weekly, agrees. “All of our papers are written and printed with significant costs and delivered free to homes and businesses in each of our communities. By forming this group and making it easier and more efficient for regional and national advertisers to place media buys with us, our newspapers will be stronger financially — and that means we can continue providing the

Tamara Steiner, Rebecca Coburn, Elena Hutslar, Denise Rousset, Wendy Scheck, and Jennifer Neys

local coverage our readers have grown accustomed to.” The Lamorinda Weekly debuted in March, 2007. Each of the papers will continue to cover local stories in their communities, with

This month’s Special Section:

Senior Services pages 7-9

little or no overlap in news coverage. The nearly six-yearold Community Focus will also expand its coverage to include Walnut Creek. See NEWS GROUP page 5

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

page 2

The Valley Sentinel Information: (925) 935-4311 or valleyartgallery.org.

The Ladies Man Now-February 15 2, 8pm. In Belle Epoque Paris, the recently married Dr. Hecule Molineaux tells “one, tiny, little, hardly noticeable lie” to cover an innocent but embarrassing indiscretion. $28. Village Theatre, 233 Front Street, Danville. Information: villagetheatreshows. com.

Voyages Now through February 28 11am-5pm Tues-Sat, 11am-2pm Sun, Closed Mon. The Lafayette Art Gallery kicks of the new year with a new exhibition, “Voyages,” as artists show works depicting their travels, as well as the journeys they undertake to create their art. Free. Lafayette Art Gallery, The Forge, 3420 Mt. Diablo Blvd, Lafayette. lafayetteartgallery.com. Wedding Gowns through the Ages NowMarch14 Featured will be selected b r i d a l gowns from the 1890s - t o d a y, a photo gallery of brides in their gowns and a showcase of wedding accessories worn by the bride and her guests. Also included in the exhibit

Now through February 28 “New Faces” Work from new artists at Valley Art Gallery Open Tuesday - Saturday, 11am to5 pm, Valley Art Gallery is a volunteer-based, non-profit organization that has been in operation since 1949. It offers over three hundred original works of art in many mediums and styles. 1661 Botelho Drive, Walnut Creek.

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February 2015 will be wedding memories and mementos, favorite gifts and interactive displays for adults and children. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave., Danville. Information: (925)8373750 or www.museumsrv.org. Year of the Goat - Crafts February 11 2-3pm. Let’s welcome the Lunar New Year of the Goat with a story or two about the animal of the year and a some crafts. Crafts while supplies last. Registration begins on Jan. 26. Dougherty Station Library, 17017 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: (925) 973-3380. Design Your Own Valentine’s Day Cards February 11 3-5pm. Show your love this Valentine’s Day by designing your own Valentine’s Day cards for family and friends! Bring your fun and creative ideas to the Danville Library and craft materials will be provided. 400 Front Street, Danville. Information: (925) 8374889. Music of Duo Gadjo February 12 7pm. She was born in France. He was born in San Francisco. She is Isabelle Fontaine. He is Jeff Magidson. Together, they are known as Duo Gadjo. Their music celebrates the union of two cultures, largely inspired by the sounds of the 20’s and 30’s, when jazz was the thing and Paris was the place to be. $10. Village Theatre, 233 Front Street, Danville. Information: villagetheatreshows.com. Love Letters February 13, 14, 15 2pm, 7pm, 8pm. The San Ramon Community Theater is proud to offer a free showing of Love Letters, written by A.J Gurney in celebration of Valentine’s Day. This heartwarming play chronicles the relationship of two distinctly different characters, and brings to life the intricate workings of the heart’s affection. Front Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.ca.gov. Victorian Valentine Making and Lace February 14 10am-2pm. Sending paper Valentines became popular in the 1800’s, and the tradition continues today. Join us to make old-fashioned Valentine greetings, discover some of the history behind them, and see how lace is made by hand. Forest Home Farms, 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.ca.gov. Ernest and Celestine February 14 2pm. Fall in Love with Ernest & Celestine on Valentine’s Day. There is a world where the bears live above ground and the rodents live below in mutual fear and hate. However, Celestine meets Ernest and an unlikely bond forms between the two. French film dubbed in English Rated PG.

valleysentinel.com $6. Front Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.ca.gov. Movie Screening: The Notebook February 14 2pm. As part of “Romance in the Tri-Valley”, the Village Theatre is pleased to present, The Notebook. A 2004 American romantic drama film directed by Nick Cassavetes and based on the novel of the same name by Nicholas Sparks. $5. 233 Front Street, Danville. Information: villagetheatreshows.com. Art and Travel Series: “SeductionJapan’s Floating World” February 17 1-2pm. Get ready for a special Arts & Travel Presentation Series from around the world! Enjoy fascinating visual presentations of upcoming art exhibits at prestigious San Francisco art museums such as the De Young Museum, Legion of Honor, and Asian Art Museum of San Francisco and learn about exciting adventures in travel. Danville Library 400 Front Street, Danville. Information: (925) 8374889. White Crane Lion Dancers February 17 4-5pm. Celebrate the Lunar New Year with the amazing acrobatics of the White Crane Lion Dancers. This extremely loud, enriching program features drumming and the awe-inspiring Lion Dance - a cultural excitement for children and families alike. Free. Danville Library 400 Front Street, Danville. Information: (925) 837-4889.

Pitch Perfect Sing-and-quotealong February 21 4pm, 8pm. Are you ready to get pitch-slapped? Start practicing your harmonies and your mermaid dancing, and join for an awesome, sing-and-quote-along screening of Pitch Perfect. 8 pm show includes behind-the-scenes stories and Q&A with Pitch Perfect 1 & 2 Music Director Deke Sharon. $5. Village Theatre, 233 Front Street, Danville. Information: villagetheatreshows. com Night at the Improv February 21 8pm. Join San Ramon Improv U Players and our resident troupe Twisted Gray Matter for an interactive evening of improvisational comedy. $10, 18+. Front Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.ca.gov. San Ramon Youth Symphony Concert February 23 8pm. Enjoy a short classical concert performed by San Ramon’s youth symphony under the direction of David Sego. Free. DV Performing Arts Ctr, 10550 Albion Rd, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.ca.gov. Arts Enrichment Book ClubNature Illustration February 25 4-5:30pm. Read camping mystery “Sammy Keyes & the Wild Things.” Then solve the mysteries of nature by drawing the plants and animals that are all around you, in an art workshop led by Fiona MacLean. Middle school students only. Free. Danville Library 400 Front Street, Danville. Information: (925) 837-4889.

The Object & the Void: West Coast Metal Sculpture February 17 – April 12, 2015 Opening Reception: Thursday, February 19, 6–8pm. The Bedford Gallery is open Tuesday through Sunday, Noon to 5pm, and 6-8 pm on evenings when there are theater productions in the LCA. The Gallery is closed on Mondays. The exhibit will feature four West Coast sculptors whose work reveals how both a sculpture and the void that surrounds it need one another to communicate ideas and concepts with metal media ranging from cast bronze to cut steel, to explore weight, balance, and how it can be used to portray a broad reach of visual imagery and ideas. $5. Bedford Gallery, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: www. bedfordgallery.org or (925)2951416.

Recycled Percussion February 28 8pm. Famous for their jaw dropping live performances, Recycled Percussion leaves it all on stage. The bands raw talent, extreme athleticism and precision leaves you inspired, thrilled and ready to rock! DV Performing Arts Ctr, 10550 Albion Rd, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.ca.gov. Ka ‘Ohi Nani o Mana’olana N Wai Ola: Waters of Life March 1

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

valleysentinel.com

4pm. Join for an evening of Hawaiian and Tahitian music and dance! Water, in its many forms, has an integral role in ancient and current Polynesian tradition and culture, and so join to honor and celebrate this sacred life source with a concert featuring dancers and musicians. $25. DV Performing Arts Ctr, 10550 Albion Rd, San Ramon. Information: sanramon. ca.gov.

The Rocket March 6 7pm. A young boy, who is believed to bring bad luck to everyone around him, leads his family and two new friends through Laos to find a new home. In Taiwanese/with English Subtitles, Rated R. $10. Front Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.ca.gov.

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Tales of the Night March 7 2pm. Tales of the Night weaves together six exotic fables each unfolding in a unique locale, from Tibet, to medieval Europe, an Aztec kingdom, the African plains, and even the Land of the Dead. French film dubbed in English Rated PG Runtime 1 hr. $6. Front Row Theater, 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon. Information: sanramon.ca.gov.

Nima Farsi Class & Iranian Children Cultural Education Society Norooz March 8 2pm. The Students of the Nima Farsi Class & Iranian Children Cultural and Educational Society (ICCES) of Tri Valley Would like to invite you to their Eighth annual Norooz (Persian New Year) performance and celebration. Free. DV Performing Arts Ctr, 10550 Albion Rd, San Ramon. homak56@ gmail.com

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Ragin Cajun Goes to RIO March 6 6-11pm. It’s time to make plans for the “Ragin Cajun

Goes to RIO” Dinner & Dance. This is the primary fundraising event for the Sandra J. Wing Healing Therapies Foundation. The Foundation provides funds so that cancer patients can experience the immediate benefit of complementary therapies to help alleviate the side effects caused by radiation and chemotherapy. $125. 400 Vineyard Avenue, Pleasanton. Information: healingtherapiesfoundation.org.

The Valley Sentinel

Preschool Performance SeriesJuggler Frisco Fred! March 6 10am. Entertainment includes a zany show with juggling, unicycling (6-foot unicycle!), giant transforming origami, magic, comedy, and more, often followed by roving or interaction with the kids/adults -- teaching juggling/ origami or making balloon animals! $5. Village Theatre, 233 Front Street, Danville. Information: villagetheatreshows.com

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page 4

The Valley Sentinel

AWARD from page 1

after Pete Villa, founder of the Thunderbirds youth football program, recognizes the most outstanding high school football players in the San Ramon Valley. Each year, three student athletes from the four SRVUSD high schools are nominated by their athletic directors and coaches. This year’s nominees were: Simi Hingano, Tyler Whisenhunt and Matt Snyder from California High School;

Keiffer Longson, Michael Pangelinan and Sam Tarasow f r o m D o u g h e r t y Va l l e y High School; Zach Cribb, Eric Dobberpuhl and Scott Shirreffs from Monte Vista High School; Zach Baker, JJ Koski and Carter Nichols from San Ramon Valley High School. First runner-up was Kieffer Longson, also from California High School and second runner-up was San Ramon Valley High School’s JJ Koski.

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valleysentinel.com Advertorial

How to Prevent Cancer By Gautam Prasad, M.D., Ph.D.

When I see men and women who were diagnosed with cancer, they frequently ask, “why me?” Many tell me that they have led healthy lifestyles including engaging in regular exercise, not smoking, and drinking in moderation. Unfortunately, cancer is the result of mutations in our cells and cannot be fully prevented. However, there are several things you can do to improve the odds in your favor: 1. U n d e r g o r o u t i n e screening test as directed by your primary care physician. These include annual mammograms for women and annual rectal exams for men. In addition, a colonoscopy every 10 years is recommended. Many times these tests can find pre-cancerous conditions, which can be treated with minimal side effects and much better outcomes. 2. Eat healthy with an emphasis on fresh fruit and

vegetables. Colorful fruits and vegetables are full of important vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. While you can get some of these nutrients by taking multi-vitamins, they cannot replace raw fruits and vegetables. 3. Exercise regularly. While you don’t have to go to an expensive gym, it is important to regularly engage in physical activity. You can jog, speed walk, ride a bike, or swim at least three times per week for 30 minutes or more. 4. Don’t start smoking or, if you do smoke, quit as soon as possible. Smoking is a causative factor in numerous cancers including those of the lung, head and neck. Even if you smoke heavily, quitting dramatically reduces your risk of cancer. 5. A s k y o u r f a m i l y members about their own personal experiences with cancer. If you have had multiple family members with cancer it is possible that you may have a genetic disorder that predisposes you to cancer.

If that is the case, your primary care physician can recommend specific preventative measures or screening tests. Otherwise healthy patients sometimes ask me why they can’t simply get a “scan” (CT or MRI) to see if they have cancer. The problem is that these scans, if done indiscriminately, very rarely find cancer but often show benign “lumps” or “masses.” Biopsying these masses to rule out cancer can be painful and cause numerous side effects. For instance, if you have a mass in your lung and it is biopsied with a needle it can cause your lung to collapse and require you stay in the hospital with a tube in your chest. This is why doctors must remain judicious in ordering scans. While you cannot fully prevent cancer, the above steps are proactive measures you can take to improve your odds. Dr. Gautam Prasad is a Radiation Oncologist with Epic Care, a group of experts in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of cancer and blood disorders. www.epic-care.com.

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The Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley through its affiliate, the San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation, has issued a call for community non-profit organizations throughout the area to apply for $35,000 in grants to be awarded during 2015. Ranging from $500 to $3,000, the Kiwanis grants are designed to support programs and projects that help both specific organizations and the broader community. Ac c o r d i n g t o g r a n t s chairman, John Lineweaver, the bulk of the grants will be awarded in May. Additional monies will be held in reserve to provide emergency grants, fund Kiwanis community service projects, and support of four local Kiwanis High School Key Clubs. The total of this direct youth support will exceed $20,000, making the total dollar amount of community service grants and funding by Kiwanis more than $56,000 for 2015. Lineweaver noted that Kiwanis generally recognizes grant applications from projects that serve residents of the San Ramon Valley, although nonprofit organizations need not be located in the Valley itself. Specific eligibility criteria are

listed on the Kiwanis website at www.kiwanis-srv.org. Because Kiwanis makes a single grant to the San Ramon Valley Education Foundation for distribution to district schools, grants are NOT available for individual schools. Grant consideration is given to programs that focus on children, the infirm or the elderly and provide solace, comfort or consolation. Last year, over 40 separate non-profit organizations received grants, including Agape Villages Foster Family Agency, Assistance Leagues of Amador and Diablo Valleys, Bay Area Crisis Nursery, Blue Star Moms, Camp Camelot, Cancer Support Community, C h i l d A b u s e P reve n t i o n Council of CC, Contra Costa Interfaith Housing, Court Appointed Special Advocates, Diablo Valley Flag Brigade, Discovery Counseling Center of SRV, Down Syndrome Connection, Food Bank of Contra Costa & Solano, Friends of the Danville Library, Hope Hospice, Hospice of the East Bay, Kiwanis Family House, Loaves & Fishes, Moment by Moment, Monument Crisis Center, Museum of the San Ramon Valley, Nayeli Faith

Foundation, Ombudsman Services of CC, Police & Fire: The Fallen Heroes, Role Players Ensemble, San Ramon Historic Foundation, San Ramon Library Foundation, Senior Helpline Services, Shelter Inc., SonRise E q u e s t r i a n Fo u n d a t i o n , STAND! For Families Free of Violence, The Lucille Glass Mauzy Foundation, The Taylor Family Foundation, Trinity Center Walnut Creek, Tri Valley Haven for Women, and We Care Services for Children. T h e S RV K i wa n i s Foundation has awarded nearly $700,000 in grants in the valley since the mid-1990’s. Funds for the annual grants program are raised by the San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Foundation through several fundraising projects, including organizing and conducting the annual Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville. Kiwanis is a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. More than 600,000 Kiwanis family members in 96 countries make their mark by responding to the needs of their communities See GRANTS page 5

valleysentinel.com

February 2015

The Valley Sentinel

page 5

Advertorial

When will my pain go away?

Exploring Class IV Laser pain relief for injuries and post-surgical healing By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

In 2004, Align Healing Center began using laser therapy to help patients relieve their muscle, joint and nerve pain. Due to the near miraculous results that laser can provide to a sprain, strain or chronic pain, our patients began to ask “what else can laser help heal?” Wondering the same thing, we began to branch out and use laser on any and all injuries and wounds that our patients were presented with. We have literally watched the healing process occur right before our very eyes. Swelling reduces within minutes, severe bruises dissipate with no visible sign within a day or two and surgical wounds become painless, with minimal scarring and redness. We have had patients that have had knee surgery and hip replacements, shoulder s u rg e r y, s p i n a l s u rg e r y, breast augmentation and reconstruction, rhinoplasty, NEWS GROUP from page 1

The newspaper scene in Contra Costa County has undergone big changes in the past decade as the Contra Costa Times — part of the Bay Area News Group — covers more Bay Area-wide news in its daily newspapers. It still operates a handful of community weekly inserts, but in recent years, more competing weekly, bi-weekly and monthly publications have sprung up. Several online sources have also attracted more readers, if not advertisers. “It’s pretty clear that the big, urban daily is a dinosaur,” Steiner says, who has operated the Clayton Pioneer since 2003 and in September launched the successful Concord Pioneer. “The print newspapers that will survive and succeed are the local papers. People read them and keep them. They stay around for weeks on kitchen counters and coffee tables. If advertisers want Contra Costa reach, we have it.” GRANTS from page 4

and pooling their resources to address worldwide issues. Through these efforts, Kiwanis International truly is “Serving the children of the World”. Applications and further information, including eligibility criteria, can be

face-lifts and c-sections that heal in a fraction of the time typical without the use of laser therapy. If you are planning on having surgery or have a stubborn injury that has taken longer to heal than you would have expected it is worth your while to explore the benefits of Class IV K-Laser therapy. H ow L a s e r T h e ra py Speeds Tissue Healing I n j u r i e s a n d s u rg e r y cause tissue damage and inflammation which reduces the circulation to the injured tissue thereby impeding the nutrition and energy available to the damaged area. Laser therapy is the application of low levels of laser light to areas of the body that have been injured or damaged. Therapeutic lasers do not cut or burn, but instead, supply energy to the body in the form of photons of light. Light is transmitted through the skin’s layers (the dermis, epidermis and the subcutaneous tissue under the skin). The wavelength of the Class IV Laser allows these photons to travel deep into the

body up to 8-9 inches. When laser light penetrates into the body, it stimulates damaged cells to start producing ATP. ATP is the “fuel” or energy source that all cells need to function and repair. When damaged cells have the energy they need to function properly they can immediately start the repair process. Laser therapy accelerates the healing of injured areas, decreases inflammation, and eliminates pain allowing patients to quickly return to normal activities. How long does it take to work? 95% of our patients notice improvement after the very first treatment. However, some conditions may take a few treatments to respond. Each laser treatment is cumulative, meaning that each successive treatment builds on the previous. The doctors at Align personally work with you each visit to ensure that you are progressing as quickly as possible. For more information about how laser therapy may be helpful to you contact Align

Steiner says that the new CCCNG circulation now makes us very attractive to regional and national advertisers who want saturation in the demographically diverse and rich Central Contra Costa.” CCCNG is unique because the independent publishers will still own their papers, but with a common goal — to use the large combined circulation numbers to attract advertisers that are looking for a way to saturate the community, Hutslar says. “Some would think we are competitors but we respect each others’ publications and learn from each other. It is nice to work collaboratively.” Denise Rousset, who has run the venerable Valley Sentinel for 20 years, agrees. “This collaboration is great. Businesses who appear in local newspapers are woven into the fabric of the community, which builds trust with local consumers. This kind of sponsorship allows us to more

effectively serve residents with meaningful and relevant news and information.” “A c o m m u n i t y p a p e r must be more than just about the community; it must be of the community, “Hutslar says. “Our papers connect to readers in a way that out-of-state and corporate publishers can’t.” Steiner agrees. “When an advertiser is sharing the page with the local Little League team or the high school scholarship winners, there is an intimacy and credibility that they can’t get in the bigger regional papers.” Going up against the more established local daily, is a “David and Goliath thing,” Steiner says. “But, with our circulation of 150,000,” she notes, “one might ask ‘who is David and who is Goliath?’” For more information on the CCCNG, visit i t s w e b s i t e a t w w w. cccommunitynewsgroup.com, or call 844-457-7665.

obtained from the Kiwanis website at www.kiwanis-srv. org or by contacting John L i n ewe ave r a t 9 2 5 - 8 3 7 3665. The deadline for grant applications is Monday, March 9, 2015 and winners will be announced at a Grants Award Presentation on Thursday, May 21, 2015. Anyone interested

in learning more about the Kiwanis Club of San Ramon Valley is invited to visit www. kiwanis-srv.org. The club holds weekly luncheon meetings at Noon on Thursdays at Round Hill Country Club in Alamo. Please join the club for lunch and find out more about the organization.

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The valley Sentinel

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free “planscaper” garden design with purchase of $150 navlet’s gift card!

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Free lecture offers gardeners an introduction to composting practices On Saturday, February 14, the Contra Costa Master Gardeners (CCMG) and the Walnut Creek Library will present a free ninety-minute lecture entitled Composting Made Easy. The lecture will be held from 10:30am to 12pm at the Walnut Creek Library, located at 1644 N. Broadway in Walnut Creek. Join us in the 2nd floor Oak View Room to learn the basics of composting. Are you a plant lover? Come to our Valentine’s Day event where CCMG’s expert Diane Collen will teach you all about composting for your garden: how to start a compost pile, adding the best ingredients, nurturing decomposition, and producing rich humus for your

plants. She will cover how composting works, compost containers, what to and what not to compost, techniques to encourage decomposition, and where and when to use your compost. There will be time for Q&A after the presentation. The talk is free and open to the public. Registration is not required but is suggested. To reserve yourself a spot, go to our Walnut Creek Library calendar at http://ccclib.org/locations/ walnutcreek.html, chose the “See All Events” option, go to the date of February 14th, and click on the event. You can also register by calling library staff at: 925-977-3340. Who are Master Gardeners? Master Gardeners are volunteers trained through the University

of California’s cooperative extension to bring research based knowledge to improve residential horticulture, urban pest management and resource conservation to the residents of Contra Costa County. The CC Master Gardener Association is a non-profit organization. All proceeds from any event are returned to the community through the staffing of the Help Desk, Speakers Bureau, School Gardens, Public Gardens, Farmer’s Markets and other activities. How to contact a Master Gardener during the year: Contra Costa Master Gardener Help Desk is available for phone calls Monday – Thursday, 9 AM to noon, (925) 646-6586 or email ccmg@ucanr.edu.

February in the Contra Costa Garden February Garden To Dos General Garden Care Re m ove m o s s f ro m pathways: Use hydrated lime. Note that lime will raise the soil pH if it runs off pathways. Remove winter weeds and the early summer weeds that are just germinating. Clean clay pots—wash in soapy water with a wire brush; dry thoroughly, rub with linseed oil. May take two coats. Set out one or two ground wasp (yellowjacket) bait stations to attract queens and early scouts. This will radically reduce the number of nests in your area. Fruits & Vegetables Spray for Peach Leaf Curl before bud break (when buds start to show a little color). Harvest citrus. Do not prune back freeze damaged citrus wood until late spring.

Ad d c o m p o s t , i f t h e weather is dry enough, to your summer vegetable beds to prepare them for planting in a month or so. Start tomato, eggplant, onion, parsley and pepper seeds indoors this month, using bottom heat for best germination. Flowers & Landscaping Finish pruning roses by the middle of the month. Spray with dormant oil to control pests. Finish dormant season pruning you started last month. Prune fuchsias at the end of the month. Apply dormant oil on deciduous trees to control aphids, mites, scale and some caterpillars. Pick up all spent Camellia b l o s s o m s t o re d u c e t h e incidence of Botrytis blight

and petal blight. Plant Gladiolus bulbs. Master Gardeners are trained volunteers for the U n i v e rs i t y o f C a l i f o r n i a Cooperative Extension (UCCE). They are residents of local communities who have an active interest in horticulture, have taken the Master Gardener training offered by the UCCE, and now share their knowledge with other members of that community. They provide University of California research-based horticultural information to the citizens of California through their volunteer efforts as Master Gardeners. It is the acquisition of knowledge, the skill in gardening, and giving back to the community that distinguishes a Master Gardener from other gardeners. For more information visit ccmg.ucdavis.edu.

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Seniors valleysentinel.com

Get help paying your Medicare Costs By David Sayen

Did you know that you may be able to get help from your state paying your Medicare premiums? State-based Medicare Savings Programs also may pay Medicare Part A (hospital insurance) and Part B (medical insurance) deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. If you have income from working, you may qualify for these programs even if your income is higher than the income limits listed below. There are four kinds of Medicare Savings Programs: • Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program— Helps pay for your Part A and/ or Part B premiums, deductibles, coinsurance, and copayments. • Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program—Helps pay your Part B premiums only. • Qualifying Individual (QI) Program—Helps pay your Part B premiums only. You must apply each year for QI benefits and the applications are granted on a first-come, first-served basis, with priority given to people who got QI benefits the previous year. (You can’t get QI benefits if you qualify for Medicaid). • Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI) Program—Helps pay your Part A premiums only. You may qualify for this program if you have a disability and are working. The names of these programs and how they work may vary by state. If you qualify for a QMB, SLMB, or QI program, you automatically qualify to get Extra Helppaying for your Medicare prescription drug coverage (Part D) plan. If you answer yes to the three questions below, call your State Medicaid office to see if you qualify for a Medicare Savings Program: • Do you have, or are you eligible for, Medicare Part A? • Is your income for 2014 at, or below, the income limits listed below? • Do you have limited resources, below the limits below? The amounts that follow may increase in 2015. But it’s important to call or fill out an application if you think you could qualify for savings—even

page 7

February 2015

if your income or resources are higher than the amounts listed here. Qualified Medicare Beneficiary (QMB) Program: Individual monthly income limit $993 Married couple monthly income limit $1,331 Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) Program Individual monthly income limit $1,187

Married couple monthly income limit $1,593 Qualifying Individual (QI) Program Individual monthly income limit $1,333 Married couple monthly income limit $1,790 Qualified Disabled and Working Individuals (QDWI) Program Individual monthly income limit $3,975 Married couple monthly income limit $5,329

(Limits are slightly higher in Alaska and Hawaii. If you have income from working, you may qualify for benefits even if your income is higher than the limits listed.) Resource limits for the QMB, SLMB, and QI programs are $7,160 for one person and $10,750 for a married couple. Resource limits for the QDWI program are $4,000 for one person and $6,000 for a married couple. Countable resources include money in a checking or savings account, stocks, and bonds.

Countable resources don’t include your home, one car, a burial plot, up to $1,500 for burial expenses if you have put that money aside, furniture, and other h o u s e h o l d a n d p e rs o n a l items. David Sayen 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).

Have You Discovered Walnut Creek's Best Kept Secret in Retirement Living? Let us introduce you to The Heritage Pointe! Located on Two Beautifully Landscaped Acres, in a Peaceful Residential Neighborhood, The Heritage Pointe is steps from Downtown's Fine array of Restaurants, Superb Shopping and Quality Entertainment!

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incomes do not exceed $50,000. Beginning January 5, 2015 for information or to make an appointment for the Tax-Aide sites serving the San Ramon and Danville areas, please call: (925) 973-3250 San Ramon - San Ramon Senior Center site; (925) 480-7202 Danville St. Isidore Ministry Center site. For general information and other site locations, call: (925) 726-3199. For

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Contra Costa Aviation Advisory Committee Opening The AAC serves as an position becomes vacant The Contra Costa County (County) Aviation Advisory Committee (AAC) is accepting applications for an upcoming opening for an At-Large position;

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advisory group to the Contra Costa County Board (Board) of Supervisors to provide advice and recommendations to the Board on aviation matters related to the Contra Costa County Airports. The AAC typically meets once per month at either Buchanan Field or Byron Airport. If you are interested in serving on the AAC, please contact the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors at (925) 3351900 to obtain an application. Applications must be received by the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, February 13, 2015. Qualifying applicants will be interviewed for selection by the Contra Costa County Internal Operations Committee. For more information on the Contra Costa County Airports or the AAC visit t h e A i r p o r t â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s w e b s i t e a t ContraCostaCountyAirports. org or by calling (844) 3598687.

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Seniors valleysentinel.com

Older Americans Act

a Ple

Reauthorization Act of 2015 By Elaine Clark, Executive Director Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services

2015 marks the 50th anniversary of Medicare and just as important, the 50th anniversary of the Older Americans Act. Both of these programs give a voice to senior issues. Both are underfunded and both are in danger of being cut even further. As the new Congress takes control and priorities change (yes, sequestration is once again on the horizon), use your voice to let your representatives know of the important contributions of seniors and our need to support them. You can make a difference in a senior’s life.

page 9

February 2015

We need your help!

Hop on the Barn Wagon!

The Older Americans Act provides for the organization and delivery of social and nutrition services to older Americans and their caregivers and authorizes programs through 2018 including provisions that protect elders by strengthening the Long-Term Care Ombudsman program and elder abuse screening a prevention efforts. Visit www.cocovote. us/elected-offices/electedofficials/#ElectedOfficials to be connected to California representatives and support the Reauthorization today!

2014 is the year we focus on rebuilding our historic wheat barn at Rodgers Ranch! When completed, the barn at 315 Cortsen Road in Pleasant Hill will be used for: • • • •

Heritage Classes For Children School Field Trips Sustainable Gardening Classes Name(s): ___________________________ Displays Of Items From The Pleasant Hill Historical Society Address: ___________________________ • Meetings And Events Phone:______________________________ • A Polling Place On Election Day

email: ______________________________

Rodgers Ranch is a Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District property and Pleasant Hill’s only historic site. We are a non-profit, tax-exempt 501c3 organization

Are you at risk for lymphedema? Lymphedema is a type of chronic swelling that can result from: • Surgery • Radiation treatment • Removal of lymph nodes • Infection • Chronic venous insufficiency • Obesity Please call for more information or an appointment

Please send your donation to: Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center P.O. Box 23381 Pleasant Hill, CA 94523

Individual - $25 • Family - $40 • Contributing - $75 • Donor - $100 Benefactor - $250 • Major Donor - $500 • Corporate Benefactor - $1,000

For more information please contact us at 925-937-3677 or visit www.rodgersranch.org

Complete Lymphedema Care 925-550-3532 CompleteLymphCare.com

For more local information visit www.ValleySentinel.com

• Flu Shots Available - Walk-ins Welcome! • Immunization Center

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• Medicare Part D & B Resources • Worksite Immunization Program • We Accept Many Medicare Plans • Most Prescriptions Ready within 15 Minutes! • Free Blood Pressure Tests • Travel Immunizations

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page 10

The valley Sentinel

February 2015

valleysentinel.com

Changes to your Garbage Collection and Recycling Programs By Candace Andersen Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

In my role as County Supervisor, I have the privilege of sitting alongside city council members on many boards and commissions. The Central Contra Costa Solid Waste Authority (CCCSWA) is one of those boards. It oversees the collection of residential and commercial garbage and recycling. T h e C C C S WA w a s formed in 1996, under a Joint Exercise of Powers Agreement (JPA), to address the then rapidly increasing garbage rates and to comply with state regulations mandating a reduction in garbage going to landfills through recycling and other diversion programs. It is governed by a Board of Directors composed of two representatives from each Member Agency; the municipalities of Danville, Lafayette, Moraga, Orinda, Walnut Creek, and the Southwest end of unincorporated Contra Costa County, including Alamo, Diablo, Blackhawk and the Tassajara Valley. Over

the past 19 years it has been very successful in keeping our rates some of the lowest in the Bay Area while reaching high diversion goals. This past year, after months of reviewing over 100 names and logo options, CCCSWA is rebranding itself to the public with the more user friendly name of Recycle Smart. The name change rolls out in conjunction with exciting new changes in service. Beginning in March 2015, Republic Services (formerly Allied) will be the collection company for your trash, recycling, yard trimmings and food scraps and Mt. Diablo Recycling will be the processor of recyclables. A s p a r t o f t h i s n ew collection service there will be new low-emission, state-of-theart collection trucks, differentcolored garbage and recycling carts, and an expanded range of services. Republic Services and Mt. Diablo Recycling were chosen as the hauler and recycler after a three year, open, public bidding process. These two companies were selected because they met the desired goals of keeping rates low for the customer and increasing recycling so that

more garbage is diverted away from landfills. Watch for a mailer from Republic Services arriving soon with all the details of when your new carts will be delivered and information about the new materials being recycled. In addition, the next issue of Diversions, the quarterly newsletter from Recycle Smart/ CCSWA will arrive in mailboxes in February and March and will provide a complete review of the new services. New containers will be delivered to residents from April through July and there is going to be a color change. Blue carts will now be for recycling. Green carts will continue to be used for landscape trimmings but you will also be able to use it for food waste. All of the material in your green carts will be composted. Black carts will be for trash going to the landfill. New items that you will be able to recycle include plastic single use grocery bags, all plastics #1-7, compact fluorescent lights, and batteries. It is recommended that you put all of your single use plastic grocery bags inside one of the bags and then place it in the blue recycling container. This makes them easier to

recycle and prevents them from blowing away. Household batteries can be put into a ziploc bag and then placed on top of the blue recycling container. You will receive the same size carts you currently use, with an option to change service as needed. The new carts will be delivered the day before your normal collection day, with the old carts being removed on the normal collection day. Old carts will either be recycled or reused in in other markets the company operates in. One of the most popular programs of Recycle Smart/ CCSWA has been our Reuse and Cleanup Days. Republic Services will continue to provide two scheduled “community” reuse and garbage cleanups each year, and residents will still be able to schedule one personal on-call cleanup day annually where up to 14 bags of garbage will be picked up. You will be notified by mail at least two weeks in advance of your community cleanups. For your on-call cleanups, please call Republic Services at (925) 603-1144 or visit their website at www.republicservices.com. Currently, over one-third of the waste generated by the CCSWA communities consists

of yard and food waste. Home composting is another effective way to reduce waste and Recycle Smart/ CCSWA can help you get started. Enroll in a Vermicomposting & Bin Building Workshop and learn to compost with worms! Call (925) 906-1801 x306 or visit the Recycle Smart/CCCSWA website at www.wastediversion.org for registration. Lastly, please continue to properly dispose of unwanted prescription drugs by dropping them in a collection bin at your local police department. Help keep drugs from entering our water supply through the sewer system; you should never flush medication down toilets or drains. Locations to drop off prescription drugs or medical sharps can also be found at www.wastediversion.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. ORGANICS

New Cart Delivery April-July 2015!

RECYCLING (925) 685-4711 UNDER CONTRACT WITH

LANDFILL (925) 685-4711 UNDER CONTRACT WITH

(925) 685-4711 UNDER CONTRACT WITH

RECYCLING

ORGANICS (925) 685-4711 UNDER CONTRACT WITH

(925) 685-4711

UNDER CONTRACT WITH

ORGANICS

RECYCLE

(925) 685-4711 UNDER CONTRACT WITH

LANDFILL

RECYCLING

2. Following delivery of your new carts, your old carts will be removed on your next collection day.

3. You will be provided the same Recycle, Organics and Landfill cart sizes you have now.

(925) 685-4711 (925) 685-4711

UNDER CONTRACT WITH UNDER CONTRACT WITH

LANDFILL (925) 685-4711 UNDER CONTRACT WITH

Contact Republic Services of Contra Costa County for more information: (925) 685-4711

LANDFILL

1. Your new Recycle, Organics and Landfill carts will be delivered the day before your regular collection day.

valleysentinel.com

February 2015 Advertorial

The valley Sentinel

page 11

Acquiring easier than disposing

The Ultimate Gift Some options for those unwanted, unneeded Items for Valentine’s Day By Joan Trezek at the pile of stuff is stressful. are specialty fee-based web By Dr. Robert Brown

As the symbol for St. Valentine’s Day is the heart, love is the theme of that day. Everyone talks of love, there are endless songs of love, yet, how many understand what love really is? A wonderful book, The Art of Loving, by Erich Fromm, does a superb job explaining the subject. I personally feel this book should be required reading for high school graduation. In this book it is strongly emphasized that one can only love and respect another to the extent that he/she loves and respects him/herself. How well one takes care of one’s self is one of the very important requirements of the art. It’s strange that a Valentine’s Day tradition is to give large quantities of sugar to the one you love, especially just after completing the season of severe dietary abuse last November/December. A little treat once in a while won’t hurt you, but the extent of the abuse some of us go to can only make sure that the future won’t be one of joy and love, but toothaches and inflammatory pain. This holiday season I had many patients learn how overindulgence can bring back arthritis pain and disturb their immune system. Let’s give the ultimate gift of love this Valentine’s Day. Wouldn’t a magic wand that could ward off sickness and instill youthful vitality well into your future be a

wonderful gift? People have spent fortunes looking for such an item and yet it has always been there for them. Give the ultimate gift to your loved one, a healthy and vital you, although a little jewelry along with that wouldn’t hurt. In my book “WHY?” The Question That Could Save Your Life, I try to simplify the explanation about what it takes to accomplish this goal. One method is to stay away from pharmaceuticals. So many medications are only there to satisfy our desire for instant gratification. “I want to have the pain gone now with no effort from me”. While the drug takes away the symptom, the cause still lurks and can become much harder, or even impossible to treat. THERE IS NO EASY WAY OUT! Just like love requires commitment, so does self love. Let us all get out of the habit of using self abuse to express joy and love and, instead, honor the true joy of honoring those that we love with a commitment to their health, welfare and ultimate happiness as well as our own. If you are suffering from jaw pain/popping or symptoms of sleep apnea, don’t put it off another day. Call my office for a free consultation to see how I can help you to improve your quality of life. If not for yourself, do it as a loving gesture for your partner. Please call for your complimentary consultation today, at 925-837-8048 or visit our website at www. aodtc.com.

Recreation Expo Returns for 6th Year

Early, discounted registration for spring, summer programs Danville area residents are encouraged to save the date to attend the Town of Danville’s 6th Annual Recreation Program Expo to be held Febraury 14, 2015 at the Danville Community Center. A variety of specialty class instructors and Town staff will be on hand to showcase upcoming classes and answer questions in person. Registrations submitted at the Expo are eligible to receive a 10% fee discount

for programs listed in the Spring Activity Guide and Summer Camps Brochure, which will be bulk mailed to Danville, Alamo and Diablo residents beginning February 2, 2015. T h e Re c re a t i o n E x p o event will take place on Saturday, February 14, 2015 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.at the Danville Community Center, 420 Front St. For more information, contact Program Supervisor Christine Mabry at (925) 3143475 orcmabry@danville. ca.gov.

Chances are good that you have a closet, garage area, maybe even a whole “spare” room where you store things “temporarily” until you can figure out the next move. Perhaps you’ve noticed that weeks go by and you still haven’t figured out whether to save, sell, share with other family/friends, or donate the items. While 2015 is still young, maybe now is the time. A move, particularly a downsizing move, will force you to deal with clutter. Disposing of the home and goods of a loved one, typically an aging parent, is another force factor. If you have been in one or both situations, you probably can attest to the fact that delay doesn’t make things easier. Actually situations like these can offer some valuable insights. For example, you may be the best one to make decisions about disposing of goods. And, given how much time is required to thoughtfully dispose of items, it is unfair to put the burden on someone else. Of course, one always has the option to enlist a professional organizer. Clutter, junk, stuff, unused items—whatever you call items that haven’t been used or looked at for a year or longer are likely candidates for disposition. If we’re honest, we may admit that just looking

And, paying to move items that are no longer used makes little sense, and no sense at all if there is no space for them at the next location. Finally, if the situation is settling an estate, it is really difficult for adult siblings—absent a will where jewelry, family heirlooms, etc. are designated for a specific individual—to determine who gets what. Feelings can be very easily hurt. The following may be of some help: Gifting: Family Heirlooms/Art/Jewelry: Items of value may be a particularly memorable gift to a friend, family member and can be designated as gifts in one’s will. Of course, they can be given as a gift while one is still alive assuming they haven’t appreciated greatly in value over time so that the recipient would owe capital gains tax if items were to be sold. Selling: Lots of options here—garage sales (timeconsuming to organize), web sites like Craig’s List, Ebay, auction houses ( take a commission based on the hammer price and a small insurance fee), Amazon and used book stores (books of value); antique/collectible shops that take goods on consignment (again a commission applies). There

sites for vintage and highend clothing, for men and women. Even fur coats in good condition. Just do an online search. Donate: A number of nonprofits operate thrift shops where goods can be dropped off and many will pick up large items that are in good, usable condition. In our area, many homes receive postcard alerts from charities indicating when their truck will be in a neighborhood and what goods are needed. Residents just leave items at the door or curb. For art/museum lovers, donating to the Oakland Museum’s annual White Elephant Sale may be a good option. Their site identifies items they accept. Lions Clubs sites—often dropboxes or health providers’ offices-- are a good place to donate eye glasses. One more tip: The site, www.freecycle.org, is made for folks who have something they want to give away as well as folks who are looking for a specific item. There is no charge to post an item and each community has its own site—so Walnut Creek residents have their site, San Ramon theirs, etc. You can register to participate in as many sites as you wish and opt out when you no longer wish to participate.

Record Low Low Rates! Rates! Record Jason Brown

Sr. Vice President Mortgage Counsultant

Direct Line (925) 785-4200

JBrown@Stonecastle-LHF.com

Great JUMBO Fixed Rate ARMS to $2,000,000 Rate

APR

5/1 ARM - no points

3.000%

3.154%

7/1 ARM - no points

3.125%

3.259%

Fixed Conforming Loans - NO POINTS Fixed Rates to $417,000 APR Rate

Fixed Rates to $625,500 Rate APR

30 Year Fixed

3.500%

3.776%

3.625%

3.914%

“ Year Fixed 15

2.625%

2.873%

2.875%

3.143%

Due to an ever changing mortgage market environment, rates quoted may only be valid on 01/29/2014 at 11:00 AM at the time we completed this flier. It may be likely that interest rates, loan terms, and lending guidelines will have changed and are subject to change without notice. All APR’s are based on the maximum loan amount noted in the advertising. Applicant(s) and subject property must meet all lenders’ guidelines to be approved for this rate; therefore this is not a mortgage loan approval, a guarantee of making a loan, or a commitment to lend. Stonecastle Land & Home Financial is and Equal Opportunity Lender and is licensed with the California Bureau of Real Estate License #01327738 NMLS #280803.

Ask me about a true no-points, no-cost loan! www.FindJasonBrown.com

319 Diablo Road, Suite 103 Danville, CA 94526 CA BRE License #01190676 NMLS#270050

Community Calendar

February * February * February * February * February * February * February For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com

COMMUNITY EVENTS 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. 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.) Canine Companions for Independence Puppy Class Each Saturday 11am-12pm. 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. ccieastbay.org. FREE E-Waste Recycling Event First Saturday of every month 9am-1pm. Bring your old, unwanted electronic equipment. Drop off is FREE and all e-waste will be recycled right here in the good old USA. Diablo Valley College, 321 Golf Club Road in the Overflow Parking Lot #7, Pleasant Hill. Visit www.NoEwaste.com for accepted and non-accepted electronic items. Information: 866-335-3373 or info@NoEwaste.com. Annual “State of the City Address” With San Ramon Mayor Bill Clarkson February 10 11:30am-1:30pm. Join for the Annual “State of the City Address” with Mayor Bill Clarkson as he talks about the State of the Business Economy in San Ramon. San Ramon Golf Club - Wedgewood Wedding Banquet Center 9430 Fircrest Lane, San Ramon. sanramon.org An Evening with Award Winning Author Nayomi Munaweera February 11 7pm. Sri Lankan-American author, Nayomi Munaweera, lives in the Bay Area. Her debut novel, Island of a Thousand Mirrors, is a thrilling family saga set against the backdrop of the Sri Lankan Civil War. Rave reviews call the book powerful, poignant, lyrical, and devastating. San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery Street, San Ramon. (925) 973-2850. Legos & Listening February 12 4-4:45pm. Danville Library’s popular Legos and Listening program is designed to hone listening skills and explore creativity! Children listen quietly to recorded stories while creating projects with Lego building blocks. RSVP required. Ages 4-9. 400 Front Street, Danville. (925) 837-4889. Parenting the Positive Discipline Way February 12 6-8pm. Christine S. Tom will present parents with tools to help their children become responsible, respectful and resourceful, based on the principles outlined in the best selling “Positive Discipline” books by Dr. Jane Nelsen. Registration required. San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery Street, San Ramon. (925) 973-2850. 6th Annual Recreation Expo February 14 10am-1pm. Get a sneak peek of what the Town of Danville has in store for Spring and Summer 2015! Meet summer day camp and aquatics staff, plus a variety of specialty class instructors, and get all of your questions answered in person. Danville Community Center, 420 Front Street, Danville. danville.ca.gov. Free SAT Practice Exam February 14 10am-2pm. C2 Education will conduct a free SAT practice test based on the new exam. Come prepared to take the entire test. Follow-up seminar with scores and suggestions for preparing for the real thing will be held on Thursday 2/26 at 6:30 PM. Registration required. Dougherty Station Library, 17017 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, ccclib.org/locations/dougherty.html. The Master Gardeners Series: Composting Made Easy February 14 10:30am-2pm. Are you a plant lover? Come to the Contra Costa Master Gardeners Valentine’s Day event where CCMG’s expert

Diane Collen will teach you all about composting for your garden: how to start a compost pile, adding the best ingredients, nurturing decomposition, and producing rich humus for your plants. Free. Walnut Creek Library, 1644 North Broadway, Walnut Creek. 925977-3340. Ruth Bancroft Garden Valentine’s Day Aloe Tours February 14 10am-3pm, rain or shine. You and your sweetie will take a guided tour of The Garden led by curator Brian Kemble, world-renowned aloe expert, then afterwards enjoy mimosas and a plate of sweet treats. Tours with Brian start at 10am and 12pm and last 60 - 90 minutes followed by your Sweets Seating. Space is limited for this special event so pre-registration is required. $50/couple for members; $65/couple for non-members. Sign-up online or members call the office to make your reservation. 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek Information: (925) 944-9352 or ruthbancroftgarden.org. Discovering a Sense of Place Now through May February 18: Becoming a Water Conservation Geek February 21: Installing a State-of-the-Art Drip Irrigation System Co-sponsored by The Gardens at Heather Farm and the City of Walnut Creek, Discovering a Sense of Place is a free lecture series that runs from through May 2015 with topics ranging from landscape and irrigation tips to the basics of backyard composting. Admission is free, but advanced registration is requested. Ruth Bancroft Garden Plant Identification Lecture: History of the Garden and Human Uses of Plants February 21 10am-12pm. From pear and walnut orchards to suburbia, discover the changes that made this area what it is today. $20 non-members; $15 members. 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. ruthbancroftgarden.org. Bricks 4 Kids Preschool Class - E is for Elephant February 25 3pm, 4pm. Watch your preschooler’s eyes light up as they dig into a pile of DUPLO bricks at the San Ramon library! Children build a simple model based on a letter of the alphabet. Attendee must be 3 or 4 years. Registration Required. 17017 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, ccclib.org/locations/dougherty.html. Starting a Summer Vegetable Garden February 26 6:30-8pm. Brad Miller of Contra Costa Master Gardeners will describe methods for creating a healthy summer vegetable garden-soil prep, seeds or transplants, cover crops, fertilizing, watering, mulching, planting times, and crop selection. San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery Street, San Ramon. (925) 973-2850. Free SAT Practice Test February 28 10am-2pm. C2 Education will conduct a free SAT practice test based on the new exam. Come prepared to take the entire test. Follow-up seminar with scores and suggestions for preparing for the real thing will be held on Wednesday 3/11 at 6:30 PM. Registration required. San Ramon Library, 100 Montgomery Street, San Ramon. (925) 973-2850. Tri-Valley Cultural Jews present a Secular Purim celebration March 1 10:30 - 12:30. Hamantaschen, crafts, games, and fun for all ages, plus our annual Purim skit. Attendees are welcome to come dressed as their favorite Purim character. Free. The Bothwell Arts Center, 2466 8th St., Livermore. Happy Birthday, Dr. Seuss! March 2 4:30-6pm. The Danville Library and Town of Danville invite you to join the fun and festivities at the seventh annual Dr. Seuss Birthday Party! Don’t miss your favorite Dr. Seuss stories, fun and zany crafts, and many more surprises! $5, registration required. 420 Front Street, Danville. danville.ca.gov. Speak Up! English Conversation Group March 2 6:45-7:45pm. Practice and improved your English in an informal, small group setting. Just drop in and bring a pen and paper to take notes. Dougherty Station Library, 17017 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon, ccclib.org/locations/dougherty.html. Teen Job and Career Fair March 7 12-4pm. Don’t miss your chance to get career information for a summer job! This free event provides a wide range of topics for

potential teen employees. Dublin Senior Center, 7600 Amador Valley Blvd., Dublin. 925-973-3200.

SENIORS Planning Your Social Security Benefits February 23 6:30-7:45pm. Find out how to potentially maximize your Social Security benefit! Get the answers you need to critical questions with Lincoln Financial Advisors Corporation representative Kinley Wong. Ygnacio Valley Library, 2661 Oak Grove Road, Walnut Creek. (925) 938-1481. 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. 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. All trips meet at the Danville Park & Ride lot unless otherwise noted in the trip details. Reserve your spot at the Danville Senior Center, 115 E. Prospect, Danville, CA 94526, on or before the registration date beginning at 8:30am. Information: 925-314-3400 or visit www. ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/Senior_Sneaker_Trips. The Danville Area Senior Hikes (DASH) are open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at the Danville Park-n-Ride (next to the Sycamore Valley 680 North exit) at 9AM 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. 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. Wisdom Wednesdays: 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 Tuesday 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: 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 various locations, 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 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 San Ramon Library Front Desk. Book group meets at Alcosta Senior and Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd. Information: Carol Yuke, Adult Services Librarian. 925-973-285

BUSINESS Business After Hours Mixer- Danville Fit February 12 5:30-7pm. Don’t miss out on this great opportunity to network at one of our great health clubs in the area! Have fun, prizes and more! $5 members, $20 prospective members. 101 Town & Country Drive, Suite A, Danville. danvilleareachamber.com New and Future San Ramon Chamber Member Orientation February 24 4-5pm. Join and learn about the various Chamber services that can benefit your business. Ambassadors and the Chamber’s President/CEO, Stewart Bambino, will be there to greet you. Free. RSVP required.Bishop Ranch 6, 2400 Camino Ramon Conference Room 158/K, San Ramon.

Please email your calendar events to the Sentinel at Info@valleysentinel.com by 5pm on the 20th of the month preceding publication month. Inclusion in the calendar pages is at the sole discretion of Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.

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CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS 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 Liz at 389-0152 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 has a new Fall schedule for their 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. RECURRING Mondays: The Walnut Creek Garden Club Meets the second Monday of each month. The general meeting begins at 9:30 with community and socializing from 10:30 to 11:00. 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. Faz Restaurant, 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 11:30am. Meets the third Monday

February 2015

The Valley Sentinel

Community Calendar (continued from page 12) of each month, except for May and December. If you are retired or semiretired and want to make new friends, participate in fun activities and better enjoy your leisure time, we welcome you to join with us. 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. Meets every Tuesday. New members welcome. Danville Women’s Club, 242 W. Linda Mesa Ave., Danville. Information: danvilleam. freetoasthost.org. Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary 7am. Meets every Tuesday morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Information: dsvrotary.com. 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 Kiwanis Club 12:10-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust Street,  Walnut Creek. Information: kiwanisofwalnutcreek.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. In a nurturing small group, you are encouraged to process feelings of grief resulting from the loss of pet. Register with Vicki at 925-8875681 or vickis@hospiceeastbay.org. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net. 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 Group 4:30-6pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill. Information: 925-8875681 or visit www.hospiceeastbay. org. Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo. Information: 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. Information: sanramonvalleyrotary.com. Danville Lions Club 7pm. Meets the first and third Wednesday each month at The Brass Door at

2154 San Ramon Valley Blvd. in San Ramon. Information: Pat.Porter@hannaglobal.com

tion: Barb Miller at bajumil@yahoo. com or Donna Hill at hillmom3@ comcast.net

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. Information: visit www. srvexchangeclub.org

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.

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. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.org. 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. $23 includes luncheon, guest speaker and a great opportunity to socialize with at least 120 other retirees from the San Ramon Valley. To reserve a space, please email us by Friday prior to luncheon at www.info@SIR128.com. Location: San Ramon Golf Club, 9430 Fircrest Lane, San Ramon. Information: www. SIR128.com. 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 7:00pm. 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 of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $8, Guests $12. All welcome. 111N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Thursdays: 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 Newcomers 11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest speaker at a local Tri-Valley restaurant. $12. New and long-time adult residents are welcome. Reservations/information: 925-837-9600 or www.srvnc.com. 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. Informa-

Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am. Meets every 3rd Saturday. Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Meeting location is the Fireside Room at Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at (925) 254-8349

page 13

or jgriehl@gmail.com. Caregivers meet at same time in Oak Room of Grace Church. Information: Howard Zalkin at 925 939 4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 925 933 6357 Free. All are welcome. Sundays: Cars n Coffee: First Sunday of Every Month 8-10am. Blackhawk Automotive Museum is hosting Cars and Coffee for automotive enthusiasts in the parking lots of Blackhawk Plaza. Our partner, Scott’s Catering, will provide coffee and other refreshments. Afterwards, visit shops and restaurants in Blackhawk Plaza. Blackhawk Museum; 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle; Danville. Information: www.blackhawkmuseum.org.

Classifieds - Help Wanted HELP WANTED Instructor Position: Community Based Program for Adults with Developmental Disabilities in Danville and Pleasant Hill. $11.44/hour with benefits. M-F, 9-4. Call (925) 2298228. PT Clerical Person needed from Monday - Friday, $600.00 weekly. Computer skills are a must. Need to be detail oriented, possess good customer service skills, some cash & items handling skills. Must be able to do Lil errands. Apply @ Robert Lewis Link ahead, Email: robertlewis808@ gmail.com Part-Time Receptionist: Hesperian Cleaners. Candidate must be friendly and detail-oriented. Hours: 8am-2pm M-F, 9am-4pm Every other Sat. W a g e : $ 1 0 + / h o u r. C o n t a c t : HesperianCleanersBL@gmail.com.

Data Steward Lead: M.S. in C.S. or rltd. & 4 yrs of relevant exp. Bank of the West - CV to: careers@bankofthewest. com. Position in San Ramon. Account Manager in Property Management needed full time: Work from home. (ready access to central Contra Costa County required). Ideal candidate will have a BA degree, or be well on their way to obtaining one; a California real estate license or the willingness to obtain one. Should be technologically adept and able to learn new software and applications with ease, and be comfortable with numbers and able to read and understand basic accounting statements. Must work well under pressure of deadlines. This is an expanding property management firm seeking a career-oriented individual who is generally available 9am-5pm M-F with some flexibility. For more information email your resume to crousset@ comcast.net or call (925) 890-4482 to schedule an interview.

Advertise in the Sentinel!

Contact our new Advertising Manager

Victoria Zetterquist

Cell (925) 413-2768 Victoria@valleysentinel.com

Community News & Information

Danville • Blackhawk Alamo • Diablo • San Ramon Publisher/Editor - Denise Rousset Chief Financial Officer - Jeff Gummere Advertising Manager - Victoria Zetterquist Graphic Designer - Laurie Prindle Auto - David & Judy Colman Web Support - ewebsiteservices.com Intern - Isabella Ordaz, MVHS

925-820-6047 390 Diablo Road Suite 145 Danville, CA 94526

www.valleysentinel.com

page 14

The valley Sentinel

AUTO

2015 Kia K900 Luxury V8 By David and Judy Colman

From a company historically known for producing small front wheel drive economy cars, Kia’s all new, rear wheel drive, V8 powered 2015 K900 is a complete aberration. And a very pleasant one at that. The K900, the first rear wheel drive product from Kia, represents a remarkable achievement, propelling a previously pigeonholed economy brand i n t o t h e s t ra t o s p h e re o f consummate luxury travel. In terms of accoutrements, technological razzle-dazzle, and build quality, the K900 is on an even footing with such eternal luxury stalwarts as BMW, Mercedes, Audi and Cadillac. From a price perspective, Kia beats them all soundly by bringing the K900 to market for just $59,500. If you want the full bells and whistles gift wrap, order this Kia with the VIP Package. Though it boosts entry price by an extra $6,000, you will enjoy every embellishment imaginable: Advanced Cruise Control, Advanced Vehicle Safety Management, Power

Door Latches, 12.3” Full Color LCD TFT Instrument Cluster, Head-Up Display, Front Seat Cushion Extensions, Power Front Seat Headrests, Power Reclining Rear Seats, Ventilated Rear Outboard Seats, Lateral Adjusting Rear Headrests, and Rear Seat Lumbar Support. Even with the addition of all that refinement, the transaction fee still amounts to just $66,400. We spent the coldest we e k i n re c e n t m e m o r y with the K900, and I can’t think of a car better suited to defeating the chill than this Kia. With the temperature hovering just above freezing, the K900 produced warm air within two blocks of driveoff. Better yet, the steering wheel is heated at the 9 and 3 o’clock positions, making the use of gloves unnecessary. Both front seats feature three position seat heaters, and the warmth provided also takes effect immediately. Strong, well designed front and rear defrosters clear the vision corridors with dispatch. I have never driven a car better suited to low temperature operation.

March 2009 February 2015

The VIP extending lower seat cushions afford both front seat passengers yet another way to configure their palatial surroundings. Mimetically representative seat controls, a la Mercedes, are intelligently placed just below eye level on the inner front door panels, along with triple memory setting buttons. If you can’t get comfortable in this Kia, you can’t get comfortable period. Control knobs, seating

its muscular 5 liter V8 good for 420hp and 376lb.-ft. of torque, the K900 just loafs silently along in top gear at 75mph on the freeway at 1,500rpm. Yet should the need arise to slice into a gap in traffic, this Kia explodes with satisfying thrust. Despite the K900’s corpulent curb weight of 4,555 pounds, you will never find yourself needing more power than the V8 can provide. A compliant and cooperative 8 speed automatic transmission

surfaces, and restrained wood trim all share a similar high quality pedigree. If you don’t look at the name plate or the window sticker, you would be justified in thinking you were driving a luxury sedan costing twice as much as you actually paid. You certainly won’t be longing for more power. With

makes the most of the V8’s ample juice, and its ultra tall top gear insures 23MPG at freeway cruising speed. You will, however, notice the K900’s girth in its reluctance to change direction on a twisty road, or tight freeway access ramp. Clearly, Kia engineers have opted for comfort over handling in the suspension department,

valleysentinel.com so this bruiser of a limousine suffers from pronounced bump steer and platform deflection while cornering. The 19 inch chrome alloy wheels, shod with somewhat undersized Hankook Optimo R246radials ( 2 4 5 / 4 5 R 1 9 ) , n eve r f e e l particularly planted during transient maneuvers. A sports sedan, this is not. What it is, however, is the most sensational and affordable new luxury car yet to arrive from Korea. Really, there’s not much reason to ask the K900 to double as a sports sedan, when its real mission in life is to provide rapid, luxurious long distance transport for up to 5 adults for a price that has the competition wondering how Kia manages to do it. 2015 KIA K900 Luxury V8 Engine: 5.0 Liter direct injection v8 Horsepower: 420hp Torque: 376lb.-Ft. Fuel consumption: 15mpg city/23 mpg highway Price as tested: $66,400 Hypes: live like the 1% at a 99% price Gripes: needs swiveling headlights Star rating: 10 stars out of 10

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February 2015

The valley Sentinel

EBRPD Trails Challenge: Find Your Path in 2015

Winter Picnics in the Parks By Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Parks District

Although it’s still winter, the East Bay Regional Parks offer some great places to bundle up and have a romantic Valentinestyle picnic lunch during breaks in the weather. One good location is the Las Trampas Regional Wilderness staging area at the north end of Bollinger Canyon Road off Crow Canyon Road in San Ramon. There are several groups of picnic tables tucked under the trees next to the parking lot. As a bonus, there’s a short walk you can take after lunch through the woods on the Bollinger Creek Loop Trail. Most of Las Trampas is steep up and down, but this particular trail is fairly gentle. To reach it, go through the gate at the paved road leading up the hill towards the radio towers. Once through the gate, turn right immediately on the footpath leading into the woods. Farther up the creek it connects to a dirt fire road that goes back to the parking lot. Another good place for a winter picnic is Castle Rock Regional Recreation Area at the end of Castle Rock Road in Walnut Creek. From the parking

lot you can walk a quarter mile in to the main picnic area just past the swimming pool and pick a table. This too is a good place for an easy walk. Pick up a map at the information panel by the ball field, and then head up Pine Canyon on the Old Stage Road Trail. You’ll get great views of the Castle Rocks, and you may even see some birds of prey that nest there. You need to wear sturdy shoes, though. The trail crosses Pine Creek four times between the picnic area and the state park boundary gate. Briones Regional Park near Martinez has a nice, secluded picnic area. It’s at the Alhambra Creek park entrance, which is on Reliez Valley Road about a mile east of the junction with Alhambra Valley Road. Look for the sign and entrance next to a horse stable. Drive all the way in to the sizeable parking lot at the end of the entrance road. Walk through the gate and straight ahead past the information panel. In a couple of yards you’ll see the entrance to the picnic area on the right. The area is large with lots of tables from which to choose. There are several choices for easy lunchtime strolls, too, since Alhambra Creek Valley is a wide, flat area from which trails lead up the hills.

Martinez Regional Shoreline is another good bet for a picnic lunch followed by a scenic walk with family and friends. You can access the park by following Ferry Street across the railroad tracks from downtown Martinez. Once across the tracks, turn right immediately, then left at the next junction. There’s a parking lot on the left, after which you have a choice of picnic areas. Martinez Shoreline is completely flat, with lots of walking routes available. There are interesting historic features with information panels along the way. Beautiful views of Carquinez Strait and Benicia are another plus. One caveat: dogs are not allowed in many areas of the park. Check the signs and the maps that are available at information panels to be sure of the rules. And don’t forget that Valentine’s Day is Feb. 14. If the occasion brings on thoughts of matrimony, perhaps you can gain some inspiration from “Wedding Gowns Through the Decades,” a collection of beautiful dresses on display from now through March 14 at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley at 205 Railroad Ave. in Danville. Museum hours are 1 to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturdays, and noon to 3 p.m. on Sundays.

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Participants who register for the Trails Challenge receive a free T-shirt and online access The East Bay Regional Park to the 2015 trail guidebook. The District’s 22st annual Trails booklet includes detailed trail Challenge is off and running! descriptions, including driving Each year, the Park District has directions, for hikes in 20 challenged Alameda and Contra Regional Parks or Trails. Hikes Costa residents to get out and range from easy to challenging. enjoy their Regional Parks and There are trails open to hikers, bicyclists, Trails for fun dogs, and and fitness. equestrians, Thanks to a and many are p a r t n e rs h i p wheelchair with Kaiser accessible. Pe r m a n e n t e W h i l e of Northern the program California, the is designed to Trails Challenge be self-guided, is offered free Redwood Regional Park a number of to residents of photo by Deane Little naturalist-led Alameda and hikes are offered Contra Costa counties. The Trails Challenge is a during the year as well. To complete the challenge, self-guided hiking program that gives participants an incentive participants are asked to hike to discover their Regional Parks, five of the trails – or 26.2 miles while promoting fitness through of trails –and submit a trail log. enjoyable outdoor exercise. They receive a commemorative “This is a great opportunity to pin mailed to them. As in past explore parks for the first time – challenges, the honor system or visit old favorites,” said Park applies. Registration is now open, at District Board Member Beverly Lane, of Danville. “There’s really www.RegionalParksFoundation. something for everyone, from org. No telephone registrations paved walks, to ambitious hikes– are accepted for this program. each with their own rewards.”

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See Our Progress in the Bay Area Steve Tanti

Welding Crew Leader

“

PleasanTon residenT

Safety is a way of life for the employees here at PG&e. It feels great to know that I’m helping the community I live in every day.

”

At PG&E, our customers are our neighbors. The communities we serve as PG&E employees are where we live and work too. That’s why we’re investing $4.5 billion every year to enhance pipeline safety and strengthen our gas and electric infrastructure across northern and central California. It’s why we’re helping people and businesses gain energy efficiencies to help reduce their bills. It’s why we’re focused on developing the next generation of clean, renewable energy systems. Together, we are working to enhance pipeline safety and strengthen our gas and electric infrastructure—for your family and ours.

See the FActS IN the BAY AreA Replaced approximately 15 miles of gas transmission pipeline Invested more than $1 billion into electrical improvements Connected more than 62,000 rooftop solar installations