The Valley Sentinel_August 2015 by Sentinel Newspapers

Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

VALLEY

Inside this month...

THE

SENTINEL always for the community VOl 20, nO 8

August 2015

SPOTLIGHT

East Bay Regional Park District Regional in Nature Activity Guide

Look inside

for this Activity Guide

Rail Fair & Harvest Festival Garin Apple Festival “Skills of the Past”

www.valleysentinel.com

Free Outdoor Movie Plus:

Fishing, Kayaking, Pole Walking, Bird Watching, Volunteer Activities

San Ramon student invited to elite academic congress

... and many more activities in Your Regional Parks!

San Ramon’s Dane Quijano Sur, a rising 12th grade student (IB Diploma Programme) at The Quarry Lane School in Dublin, was a Delegate to the Congress of Future Science and Technology Leaders in Lowell, MA on June 28th - June 30th, 2015. The Congress is an honors-only program for high school students who are passionate about science, technology, engineering or mathematics (STEM). The purpose of this event is to honor, inspire, motivate and direct the top students in the country who aspire to be scientists and technologists, to stay true

ECRWSS

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

See DANE page 9

On July 16th, the annual Hot Summer Nights Car Show kicked off in Danville with a particularly hot summer night. Temperatures soaring, families came out to enjoy the wonderful display of vintage autos. Now in its 20th year, the show features hundreds of hot rods and classic cars along Hartz Avenue. If you missed it in July, come down to Town on August 13,from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. The evening also features a disc jockey, live music, vendor booths and awards for the favorite collector vehicles.

Peregrine Falcon—Conservation and captive breeding programs have led to the Falcons’ recovery

Postal Customer

By James Hale

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

The Peregrine Falcon (Falco peregrinus) is a large cosmopolitan falcon with superior hunting skills capable of flight exceeding 240 miles per hour. The scientific name peregrinus is Latin for wandering, in reference to its worldwide range. The insidious effects of DDT, a chlorinated hydrocarbon, from 1940s to the 1970s had significant negative impacts on nesting falcons. Bald Eagles, Osprey, Brown Pelicans and other top predator species experienced similar effects from the substance known as DDE, a metabolite of DDT that was produced in the birds’ bodies. DDE became concentrated within food chains causing these species to lay eggs so thin shelled that they broke or otherwise failed to hatch.

2+2

By 1970, researchers knew of only two breeding pairs in California, down from several hundred pairs some 20 years before. The ban on DDT in North America in 1972, followed by intensive conservation and reintroduction efforts, hasbrought about a strong and heartening recovery for all of these species across much of their ranges. All three races of Peregrine Falcons occur in California. Peale’s Peregrine, the Tundra and Anatum races differ mainly in the degree and extent of their markings and coloration. The Anatum race is most commonly seen in California. The adult Anatum’s head is blackish, with a broad

malar eye stripe over a buffy cheek. The belly is often buffy to nearly salmon colored. Juvenile birds are lighter colored, have conspicuous streaking of the under-parts, and appear to be long tailed. They reach sexual maturity at 2-3 years of age. The sexes generally look alike, but the male is 30% smaller and less heavily marked ventrally. The different sizes between the sexes, known assexual dimorphisim, allows the pair of falcons to take a wider variety of prey. During the spring breeding season, Peregrines are quite vocal when “eechup” calls are exchanged between partners and the throaty “kakkak-kak” notes announce the presence of a predator.

The Peregrine is specialized for catching birds, more than any other raptor. It is able to scan the sky for over a mile from a perch for prey or may use speculative flights, taking advantage of the contours of the land hoping to startle a bird into the air. The Peregrine Falcon is most noted for its attacks from a high

This month’s Special Section:

Kids and Teens–Back to School pages 8 - 9

See FALCON page 5

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

page 2

The VAlley SenTinel

August 2015

Over 40 Home Improvement Vendors!

Sunday, August 30, 2015 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Danville Community Center 420 Front Street, Danville

FREE ADMISSION Presented By

Totally Trains: Models and Memorabilia Now - August 23 This exhibit has two elevations with 4 running trains and includes scenery, bridges, a trestle, tunnel and a village with a replica of the Museum (the former Southern Pacific Depot). A secondary layout features a number of working accessories including items from two private train collections and accessories from the early to mid-1900s. $12 family pass provides unlimited viewings. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Avenue, Danville. For hours and more info: 925837-3750 or www.musemsrv. org.

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BOTANICA: All Things Plant Life - Opening Reception Now - September 6 3-5pm. BOTANICA: All Things Plant Life features a roster of over 100 artists drawing on botanical themes to create artwork that explores how plant life can be represented in a diverse reach of media. Join for the opening night of this gallery, with wine and hors d’oeuvres. $5. Bedford Gallery, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. walnutcreek.com.

27 Quick and Easy Fix Ups to Sell Your Home Fast and for Top Dollar

East Bay - Because your home may well be your largest asset, selling it is probably one of the most important decisions you will make in your life. And once you have made that decision, you’ll want to sell your home for the highest price in the shortest time possible without compromising your sanity. Before you place your home on the market, here’s a way to help you to be as prepared as possible. To assist homesellers, a new industry report has just been released called “27 Valuable Tips That You Should Know to Get Your Home Sold Fast and for Top Dollar.” It

tackles the important issues you need to know to make your home competitive in today’s tough, aggressive marketplace. Through these 27 tips you will discover how to protect and capitalize on your most important investment, reduce stress, be in control of your situation, and make the best profit possible. In this report you’ll discover how to avoid financial disappointment or worse, a financial disaster when selling your home. Using a commonsense approach, you will get the straight facts about what can make or break the sale of your home.

You owe it to yourself to learn how these important tips will give you the competitive edge to get your home sold fast and for the most amount of money. Order your free report today. To order a FREE Special Report, visit www. eastbayhomes4sale.net or to hear a brief recorded message about how to order your FREE copy of this report call toll-free 1-800240-8831 and enter 1023. You can call any time, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Get your free special report NOW.

valleysentinel.com Valley Art Gallery “John Brown – Digital Alternatives” Now – September 10th John Brown didn’t have to decide between color and black and white when he took his pictures. He took both, and asks the viewer to decide which is better and to cast their vote. 1661 Botelho Drive, Suite 110, Walnut Creek. www.valleyartgallery or (925) 935-4311

You can also browse the myriad food, drink, and souvenir booths throughout the venue, or stop off in one of the downtown shops or restaurants.www.danville hotsummernightscarshow.com

Concert Series & Thursday Night Block Party August 13 6 - 7pm Block party, 7 8:30pm concert. Dance the night away at the Broadway Cirque du Soul - Walnut Plaza Summer Concert Series & Thursday Night Creek First Wednesdays August 12 and every ﬁrst Block Party. Come early to the block party to grab Wednesday through June a drink and a bite to eat. 2016 The Unauthorized Rolling 5-8pm. Cue the circus Stones play at 7pm. All of music – it’s Walnut Creek this year’s concerts will be Wednesdays where families in the Stanford’s Parking can dance to live R&B music Lot, located next to the Main from Del Soul and feast Street Parking Garage. at food trucks from Food Truck Mafia. Delicious treats and entertainment from balloon artists, face painters, magician, juggling unicyclist, clown, and a magician are also available. Admission is free. Cypress Street between N. Main Street and Locust Street in Walnut Creek. www. Alamo Summer Nights walnutcreekdowntown.com. Concert Series August 14 6:30pm-8:30pm. Bring your friends, family, chairs, blankets and a picnic dinner to enjoy Moonalice performing classic rock music. The event takes place at Livorna Park in Alamo, located at the intersection of Livorna and Miranda Rd. www.cccounty.us/ Music in the Park alamoparksandrecreation August 8 6 - 8pm. Join the Town of Danville for it’s 30th Annual Music in the Park featuring The Joy Drops who play Americana and Bluegrass style music. Bring a picnic and a blanket or choose to eat from food trucks provided by Food Truck Mafia. Town Moonlight Movies – The Green, 400 Front Street Lego Movie Danville. www.danville.ca.gov August 14 Activities begin at Hot Summer Nights Car 6:30pm, movie begins at Show sunset. Join your friends August 13 and neighbors to relax 4 - 9pm. Walk the under the stars. Bring lawn downtown Danville Streets chairs, blankets and a picnic. lined with muscle cars, hot Danville Town Green, 400 rods, and vintage rides dating Front Street Danville. www. up to 1976 while live bands danville.ca.gov. play ‘50s and ‘60s music.

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

valleysentinel.com

August 2015 of this year’s concerts will be in the Stanford’s Parking Lot, located next to the Main Street Parking Garage.

Dixieland Jazz August 15 1:30-4:30pm. On the 3rd Saturday of every month you can enjoy the music of the Devil Mountain Jazz Band. Bring your own beverages, snacks and a friend or two! There is a large dance floor and lots of free parking. $15. Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Road, Danville. Information visit www.jazznut.com or phone 625-2707.

Art and Wine Stroll August 20 6 - 9pm. Enjoy an evening of art and libations at Danville’s Art & Wine Stroll featuring local artists and Livermore wine. $35 admission includes a commemorative glass, wine tasting, food bites, entertainment, and shuttle service between the event’s three locations. Tickets and information at www. discoverdanvilleca.com Succulents in Seashells

Concert Series &

Thursday Night Block Party August 20 6 - 7pm Block party, 7 - 8:30pm concert. Dance the night away at the Broadway Plaza Summer Concert Series & Thursday Night Block Party. Come early to the block party to grab a drink and a bite to eat. Journey Revisited plays at 7pm. All

Admission, $40 Garden Members. Pre-registration is required. Members please call the office to register at member price. 1552 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. 944-9352 or www.ruthbancroftgarden.org Music in the Park

A u c tio n

duo from The Sun Kings, along with George guitarist extraordinaire Tom Fleming. Village Theatre, 233 Front Street, Danville. 925.314.3463.

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August 19 & September 9 at 6pm sharp

August 22 6 - 8pm. Join the town of Danville for the 30th annual music in the parks featuring Foreverland , a 14 piece Michael Jackson Tribute. Bring a picnic and a blanket or buy food from food trucks provided by Food Truck Mafia. Oak Hill Park 3005 Stone Valley Road Danville. www.danville.ca.gov.

August 22 10:30am to 12:30pm or 1:30 to 3:30pm class. A special Monthly Vintage & Craft workshop on combining these Market beautiful natural materials. August 23 Laura Hogan of Arid Accents 10:30am - 2:30pm. will demonstrate various Support small, local business techniques for creating and shop for unique items and displaying long lasting at our monthly craft & professional looking minivintage market. Different gardens in shells. Participants stores are featured each will receive shells, plants, and month. Parking Lot outside Augustof19th soil mixes to take home, and Suburban Peacock 3150 personalized assistance from Danville Blvd. Alamo. www. Sept. 9th & 23rd the instructor. Handouts will suburbanpeacock.com also be provided. $50 General

All-inclusive ticket package offered at considerable savings for the 16th Annual Eugene O’Neill Festival With nearly a dozen events planned for the 16th Annual Eugene O’Neill Festival in Danville from September 4-October 4, the Eugene O’Neill Foundation, Tao House is once again offering an All-Inclusive ticketing package that provides a savings of over 20% below regular price. All-Inclusive Packages are available only until August 24. Packages are available through the Town of Danville Box Office, online at www. villagetheatreshows.com, in person at the Danville Community Center (420 Front Street), or by phone (925) 314-3400. Highlights of the Festival this year include stage productions of Eugene O’Neill’s powerful Desire Under the Elms at the Old Barn at the Eugene O’Neil

The Valley Sentinel

Three of Us August 27 Starts at 7:30pm. Three of Us presents an acoustic evening of Beatles’ music featuring Drew Harrison and James Funk, the undeniable Lennon-McCartney

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Business Expo & Mixer at The Bridges Golf Club

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September 17, 2015 5:00pm - 7:30pm

Social Media Seminar in the Fireside Room 4:30pm - 6:00pm

For more information about the event, including the seminar, registration, booth space, sponsorships and more, please visit

O’Neill and wife Carlotta with local hills in the background National Historic Site in the Danville hills (September 18-27), and a production of Tennessee Williams’ classic A Streetcar Named Desire at the Village Theatre in downtown Danville produced by Role Players Ensemble, in association with the Town of Danville (September 4-19).

The full schedule of all Festival events is available online at the O’Neill Foundation’s website, www. eugeneoneill.org. For more information email taohouse@ EugeneOneill.org, or call 925-820-1818.

www.sanramon.org

Enjoy food and drink while networking with over 50 vendors and 350 Tri-Valley attendees!!

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The Valley Sentinel

August 2015

valleysentinel.com

Advertorial

Melanoma and Immunotherapy By Tyler Kang, MD

Summer is a time when the warm weather and long days invite sun worshipers to don their swim gear and head out to the beaches, pools, and other local swimming holes to enjoy the cool waters and soak up some rays. Unfortunately, because of our increasing love of the outdoors and perfectly tanned complexions, our sun exposure and risk of

development of skin cancer has increased as well. Melanoma, the most fatal form of skin cancer, has been steadily increasing in incidence. It has increased by about 3% from 1990s to the 2000s, but in older individuals, the incidence has doubled for men in their 60s from 19832007 and quadrupled for men in their 70s. Melanoma is the 5th most common form of cancer in men and 7th in women, and claims about 10,000 lives in the United States each year. In its earliest stages, surgical

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removal of melanomas can be curative. However, metastatic melanoma can be difficult to treat and often requires systemic therapy in order to control its progression. Treatment for melanoma, as with most other cancers, has traditionally involved use of chemotherapies. But it is regarded as a universally chemo-resistant disease, with responses only seen in a small number of patients and even those are generally short-lived. Early on in the history melanoma therapy, immunotherapy has been thought of as a potential avenue to treat metastatic melanomas. IL-2 and interferon are immune-modulating agents that, when combined with chemotherapy, led to improved responses and some long-term remissions. However, these therapies

were not necessarily easy to tolerate and in fact, were accompanied by severe and sometimes fatal immune mediated reactions. In the course of the last 5 years, however, several new immunotherapeutic agents have been developed that have improved response rates and survival in this group of patients. Ipilimumab, a first-inclass anti-CTLA4 antibody, demonstrated in a large randomized clinical trial that overall survival was prolonged with therapy and that about 20-30% of patients had long-term remission. Inhibitors of the PD-1 protein, which is an immunosuppressing mechanism present on tumor cells, also showed significant responses in multiple clinical studies. They have demonstrated shrinkage of tumors in up to 40% of patients and have doubled median survivals. These next generation immune therapies are also

much better tolerated. Although immune reactions still can take place, patients generally have side effects that are much easier to manage. Melanomas are aggressive skin cancers that can metastasize and present in advanced stages that are difficult to treat. While new therapies have now improved the prognosis for patients with this disease, the best treatment is often prevention. Appropriate use of sun-screens, protective clothing and hats, especially for those who are more prone to sun’s damaging effects, will go far toward reducing this deadly illness. We can have fun in the sun and take care of our health at the same time. Dr. Kang is a board certified Medical Oncologist and Hematologist 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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Advertorial

Is Medicine Throwing The Baby Out With The Bath Water? By Dr. Robert Brown

It is always wonderful to hear about a new breakthrough in medical research. How many millions of lives have been saved by the discovery of antibiotics? In the process of bringing seemingly miracle drugs into our practices we have seen a tendency to become overly dependent on them, sometimes creating an entirely new threat to the health of the patient. Some of these drugs cover a symptom so well that we forget to pursue the diagnosis of the problem responsible for the symptom and “the baby went out with the bath water”. In my book, “WHY, The Question That Could Save Your Life”, I dedicated a chapter to right and left brain thinking. Our educational methods concentrate much too much on memorization for an A grade, and not enough on encouraging challenge and inventiveness, especially in medical school. If we rely primarily on memorization for learning long enough

we lose the ability to use the right brain and our ability to think outside the box. Proper treatment must bring in all possible information necessary to make a proper diagnosis. One of the symptoms of left brain dominance is excessive defense of one’s beliefs and resistance to new ideas. A recent article in the New England Journal of Medicine was very critical of recently published research, and yet, if that research supports a left brained person’s beliefs, it is gospel as well as dangerous. In dentistry there were very important findings in the 1920’s on how endodontically treated teeth could be responsible for diseases on other areas of the body, such as arthritis. In 1927 Dr. Weston Price placed such teeth in laboratory animals and they developed the same disease as the human donor. This is due to the fact that a molar can have three miles of dentinal tubules in its root. These tubules can house germs in areas within themselves that are too tiny to sterilize. Antibiotics came along and out went

the “baby with the bath water”, but the problem remained. I personally know of a lady who was suffering from multiple symptoms that were eliminated by removal of an endodontically treated tooth. Recently a dentist who was able to think outside the box tried using Ozone to sterilize the root. Being so small and so deadly to germs, Ozone was successful and a whole new protocol has developed. In my TMJ practice pain is by far the major complaint. Practicing an alternative, holistic approach, I use no drugs and get phenomenal results with properly designed splints, lifestyle changes, dietary changes, supplements, physical therapy and proper referrals. Unlike the side effects of drugs, such as addiction, the addiction to my treatment has a big side effect–BETTER HEALTH. If you are suffering from TMJ dysfunction, please call my office or visit my website and set up a complimentary consultation. 925-837-8048 and www.aodtc.com.

valleysentinel.com

August 2015

The Valley Sentinel

page 5

Advertorial

Natural Treatment for Rotator Cuff Injuries Exploring class IV laser therapy for shoulder rehab By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC

The Rotator Cuff muscles (four muscles in total) are the primary support structures for the shoulder. Therefore, even minor dysfunction associated with these muscles can create pain and decreased performance of everyday tasks. A Rotator Cuff injury can be caused by many everyday activities. These activities include traumatic events (e.g. fall on an outstretched arm, “yanking” of the arm), repetitive motion (e.g. throwing a ball, carrying children) and chronic improper posture (e.g. operating a computer, driving). There are three major types of Rotator Cuff injuries that we treat successfully: 1. Rotator Cuff Muscle Tears: This is a partial tear of one or more of the four Rotator Cuff muscles. Rotator Cuff muscle tears are often FALCON from page 1 flight or soar. The celebrated stoop and meteorlike plunge downwards with speeds in excess of 240 miles per hour are spectacular. Birds are the chief prey, although bats and insects are sometimes taken. Peregrines essentially catch what is locally available. At metropolitan eyries, pigeons and starlings are readily available. I have rescued dazed and injured Peregrines that have struck high rise buildings’ glass windows as they pursued pigeons in Oakland and San Francisco. Along coastal cliffs and around the bay, shorebirds are favored. A variety of other birds including meadowlarks, wrens, cormorants and geese constitute the Peregrines diet. Nest cliffs consist of a scrape or depression, fashioned by both partners, high on a ledge where the three or four reddish brown eggs are laid. The pointed end of the eggs keep them from rolling off. Incubation by both parents is over the next 33-35 days. After hatching, the young remain on the nest ledge for about 42 days before launching their inaugural flight. The Coastal Ranges foothills have the highest populations, although every

accompanied by deep achy pain in the shoulder and arm weakness. 2. Tendonitis: Tendons are at the ends of each muscle and attach the muscles to the bones they move. When there is inflammation of these tendons it is called Tendonitis. The symptoms of Rotator Cuff Tendonitis are often trigger point pain over the tendon accompanied by deep, achy pain in the shoulder and arm weakness. 3. Rotator Cuff Impingement Syndrome: Chronic injury of the Rotator Cuff can lead to a “pinching” of the nerves passing through the shoulder. This is commonly referred to as a Shoulder Impingement or Rotator Cuff Impingement. Symptoms often include numbness, tingling or sharp, shooting pain into the arm or hand. HOW DO I HEAL MY SHOULDER PAIN? The most common forms of medical treatment for

Rotator Cuff injuries are antiinflammatory medications, cortisone injections and surgery. Although meds and injections may reduce the severity of pain associated with rotator cuff dysfunction, they are not a long-term solution and may do more bodily harm than good in the long run. Surgery is a last resort and should only be used if there is irreparable damage to the shoulder that cannot be handled with proper rehabilitation. THE NATURAL APPROACH First: Heal the Damaged Tissue Ending the pain caused by a Rotator Cuff injury requires stopping the cycle of inflammation that is creating the pain. Class IV laser therapy is an excellent method for this, because it is presently the only modality that can both reduce inflammation and heal tissue simultaneously. During Laser Therapy, the infrared laser light interacts with

bridge in the San Francisco Bay Area, the TransAmerica highrise, and El Capitan in Yosemite have nesting Peregrines. On the Channel Islands, sometimes this species nests on the ground in gull colonies. Sea-stacks, rock pinnacles, tree hollows and other birds nest have been used for nesting as well. Locally, cliffs on Mt. Diablo have historically and presently support breeding Peregrine Falcons. The state of California listed the Peregrine Falcon as an endangered species in 1971; the federal government listed it soon afterward. In 1975, my friends Brian Walton and Jim Rousch, wildlife experts at the University of California at Santa Cruz, established the Santa Cruz Predatory Bird Research Group (SCPBRG). Through captive rearing programs in the laboratory, cross-fostering with Prairie Falcons, hacking and other techniques, the Peregrine Falcon recovery program took flight. Between 1981 and 1992 the Santa Cruz group successfully raised close to 400 birds for release back into the wild. By the end of 1992, the SCPBRG, working with federal and state agencies, had released nearly 800 captive-bred falcons,

mainly in California but also in Oregon, Washington, and Nevada. By the spring of 1992, the number of wild breeding pairs of Peregrines in California had surpassed the goal of 120 pairs set by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Today more than 300 pairs nest in the state. Even with past and present conservation efforts, the stability of Peregrine Falcon populations is at risk. The birds remain vulnerable to chemical contamination from several sources. Migratory neotropical birds that winter in Central and South America, where DDT is still used, return as potential Peregrine prey with DDT concentrated in their bodies. Residual deposits of DDT persist throughout the ecosystem. As a result, in many parts of California, Peregrines continue to lay eggs as thin shelled as in the 1950s. Without local, regional, and global preservation, conservation and management programs, the future of the state’s Peregrine Falcon population is uncertain. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, and is Vice Chair of the Contra Costa County Fish and Wildlife Committee.

tissues at the cellular level, increasing metabolic activity and improving the transport of nutrients across the cell membrane. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness and pain. As the injured area returns to normal, pain is relieved and function is restored. Second: Correct the Shoulder and Postural Mechanics Long-term pain relief of shoulder injuries involves rehabilitation of the shoulder, neck, and thoracic spine. Shoulder rehabilitation is achieved by utilizing specific postural adjustments, exercises and specific posture stabilizing methods in order

to re-establish proper motion and strength of the shoulder joint. Ongoing strengthening and stretching exercises are used to rehabilitate the musculature of the shoulder to ensure lasting results. If you suffer from chronic pain, it is worth your while to spend some time figuring out which of any number of factors are contributing to your pain — we will help you explore which combination of therapies will help you heal it. The good news is — you can do it without drugs, and you can get back to the activities you love! Dr. Niele Maimone, DC is the owner and founder of Align Healing Center in Danville, CA. For more information or to set up a consult call 925.362.8283 or visit www.alignhealingcenter. com.

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The VAlley SenTinel

August 2015

valleysentinel.com

Funds for parks in San Ramon Announced

Contra Costa County Supervisor Candace Andersen and the City of San Ramon Announce the Release of County Park Dedication Funds for Improvements to the Iron Horse Trail and Forest Home Farms Barn County Supervisor Candace Andersen has brought $590,000 in Contra Costa Park Dedication Funds to the City of San Ramon. Working with Mayor Bill Clarkson and the City of San Ramon, two major projects were identified for funding: improvements

to the Iron Horse Trail segment in San Ramon, and helping pay for the rehabilitation of the Barn, the oldest building at the 16 acre historic Forest Home Farms park. “San Ramon provides an outstanding quality of life to its residents with its network of parks, trails, and

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the preservation of historic buildings in our Valley,” said Supervisor Andersen. “I was delighted to discover that the County had park funds, collected over the years from developers for the benefit of San Ramon residents, that had not yet been used. Working collaboratively with the City, we are now able to put this money to good use.” Improvements to the Iron Horse Trail within San Ramon will include installing park benches, a low-flow irrigation system and native landscaping, and cooling stations. $105,000 of the County money is being dedicated to this project. The City, East Bay Regional Park District, and Contra Costa County are all involved in ongoing maintenance of the trail, which is considered a regional asset that serves people throughout the County. The City invests funds in maintaining a portion of the trail as part of its ongoing maintenance

work and as a greater amenity to its residents. The Forest Home Farms Park project will utilize $485,000 in County Park Dedication Fees to help fund improvements to the Barn. The project includes structural work on the barn, installing new concrete footings, installing new lighting, and improving accessibility to the building. The barn was placed on the National Register of Historic Places and the California Register of Historical Resources in June 2002. It is an integral part of tours for school age children that take place during the school year when students are taught about farm life, farming, and farm tools/equipment. Guided and self-guided tours are also available to the general public with constantly changing displays and interpretive programs. Mayor Clarkson was pleasantly surprised when Supervisor Andersen told him that she had over

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half a million dollars to spend in his City. “Throughout the budget process the City Council maintained a disciplined fiscal approach while still trying to complete as many projects as possible in the community,” said Mayor Clarkson. “The addition of these unexpected funds allows us to move forward on two key projects sooner and in a more complete fashion than we initially expected. This is great news for San Ramon!” “Mayor Clarkson and I have been friends for many years, but I’m not sure I’ve ever seen a bigger smile come across his face than when I told him about the $590,000 in park dedication fees,” commented Supervisor Andersen. “It’s moments like these, when you can help a city accomplish its goals, that make my job as a County Supervisor so rewarding.” The Contra Costa Board of Supervisors approved the funding allocation July 22, 2015.

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valleysentinel.com

August 2015

Concord Naval Weapons Station joins EBRPD By Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Parks District

important early milestone in the Civil Rights Movement. As part of the new park, the Port Chicago story will be the focus of a new visitor center – a joint effort with It’s not often we get the National Park Service. to turn a military base into Our hope is that this project a park, but that’s what’s will educate and enlighten happening right now in generations of visitors about Concord. this important chapter of our A large portion of the national history. The center former Concord Naval will also include exhibits on Weapons Station – a Contra the role of the Concord Naval Costa fixture since World War Weapons Station in military II – will soon become the history, the contributions of newest addition to the East veterans and Bay Regional the history of Park District. Concord and About half the Diablo the 5,028-acre Valley. property will be The new developed by the park also City of Concord offers a rich into homes, biological commercial habitat. More space, than a dozen community threatened or facilities and city endangered parks, and the remainder, about Mt. Diablo from Naval Weapons Station. Photo by Stephen Joseph species are thought to live 2,540 acres, will amidst the park’s grasslands become permanent District and prosper, and in 1942 and oaks. Those include the open space. – capitalizing on the area’s California tiger salamander, We’re thrilled to be able to superb rail and water access – California red-legged frog and protect this beautiful property the Navy opened the military and open it to the public. base in 1942, as war erupted in American badger, along with more commonplace species The new park will provide the Pacific. a valuable link between the The former Concord Naval such as deer, hawks and even golden eagles. Contra Costa Canal Trail and Weapons Station played an We need your help Mt. Diablo State Park, which in important role in four wars, planning this unique new park. turn offers trail connections to but is perhaps most well Park District staff are holding Clayton Ranch, Black Diamond known for being the site of the a series of public meetings this Mines, Diablo Foothills, Port Chicago disaster in 1944. fall to answer questions and Morgan Territory and Round In July of that year, 320 mostly hear residents’ ideas for this Valley regional parks. African American enlisted exciting new project. Whether Another bonus of the new sailors were killed when it’s hiking trails, campgrounds, Concord park: it will be one of ammunition detonated while the few in the East Bay near a being loaded onto ships. It was day camps, preserved Navy structures, mountain bike trails BART station. This is a terrific the worst home-front disaster or other amenities, we want to opportunity to link regional during the war. hear what the public wants. public transit with a first-rate When safety conditions The park also needs a regional park and trail system, did not improve, hundreds name. Its temporary moniker a top priority for the Park of sailors refused to return to Concord Hills Regional Park, District. work and 50 were convicted of The park area has a long mutiny. The ensuing protests and storied history, beginning and backlash eventually with the native Chupcan tribe led to the desegregation of that thrived in the valley for the military, and were an centuries before the arrival of Spanish explorers and settlers in the late 1700s and 1800s. The Chupcan, part of the Bay Miwok linguistic group, lived in what’s now Concord, Pleasant Hill, Bay Point and along Suisun Bay and its islands. At least a century of ranching and farming in the area followed. Among the remnants of that era is an old cistern and several building foundations. The city of Concord continued to grow

Got Gardens?

The Danville-AlamoWalnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) is looking for gardens for our 2016 Garden Tour to be held on Friday and Saturday, May 6th and 7th. If you’re interested in showcasing your garden, we’d like to visit it now. Or, if you know someone who has a beautiful garden, please have then contact us. The proceeds from the tour are donated to AAUW Funds, one of the world’s largest sources of funding for graduate women. AAUW

is providing more than $3.7 million in funding for more than 244 fellowships and grants to outstanding women and nonprofit organizations in the 2014–15 academic year through this 501c3 non-profit. To learn more about our branch and holiday home tour, please visit our web site at daw-ca.aauw.net/. To learn about AAUW Funds, visit www.aauw.org/what-we-do/ educational-funding-andawards. If you have a suggestion, please email daw. aauwmembership@gmail.com asap.

The VAlley SenTinel but we hope to change the name before it formally opens. A few current suggestions are Todos Santos, after the original name for Concord, Los Medanos, for the official name of the hills between Concord and Pittsburg, and Rancho Monte del Diablo, one of the

original Spanish land grants in the area. Other ideas are most welcome. If you can’t attend one of the planning meetings, please submit your comments at www.ebparks.org/about/ planning/cnws. We look forward to hearing from you.

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Kids and Teens page 8

The VAlley SenTinel

August 2015

10 Tips to ease back to school anxiety by Michele Borboa, MS

Summertime is often an oasis from stress for kids who suffer from anxiety. When school is back in session, kids are faced with emotional, social and educational challenges that they don’t have to worry about during the summer. “Concerns of whether current friends will be in their classes, worries that a known bully will be in the same gym period, anxiety about leaving mom and dad, stress over where to sit at lunch are among the many reasons back to school is not a peaceful time for a child who often thinks of the many ‘what if’s’ that a new school year brings,” says Martin, a board-certified licensed professional clinical counselor and award-winning author of Stuck, a guide for kids and parents dealing with the full spectrum of anxiety disorders.

Did you know that anxiety issues are the most common mental health disorders in children? There are an estimated 18 million children and teens who suffer from anxiety. The National Institute of Mental Health reports that 25 percent of teenagers have issues of anxiety, and the statistics don’t take into account the young people who are undiagnosed or don’t reach out for help. Because the start of a new school year can trigger or worsen anxiety in stressedout children and teens, pediatric anxiety specialist Rhonda Martin, M.A., offers the following tips. for parents to help ease back-to-school anxiety for their kids. Back to school is back to stress for many kids

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It’s important as a parent to help ease your child’s anxiety rather than dismiss it or, worse, get angry or belittle your child for feeling stressed. Martin suggests the following 10 anxiety-easing tips. 1. Keep your family physically active Exercise isn’t just good for the body, it can also help get rid of nervous energy. “Two weeks prior to school starting, encourage your child to exercise three to five days a week (exercise as a family to make it fun),” suggests Martin. “It will help your child expend energy and be able to fall asleep at earlier transitional bedtimes. Plus, the additional activity will reduce anxiety levels, which will also help the body to reach a state conducive to falling asleep.” 2. Ditch the sugar Steer your child away from sugar to decrease stress levels. Research suggests that white sugar and white flourbased foods can increase anxiety chemicals in the brain. Martin recommends healthy snacks such as whole fruit or yogurt, and if a sugary treat is unavoidable, be sure to partner some protein along with it. Try a handful of nuts, string cheese, a container of yogurt or a glass of milk. 3. Have fun in the sun Autumn temps may be cooler, but the sun is still shining and can serve as a natural elixir to anxiety. “When children are outdoors in the sun, they tend to be more relaxed and having fun, instead of worrying about the first day of school,” explains Martin. “Twenty to 40 minutes of sunshine is enough for most children to experience its relaxing effects.” 4. Keep a schedule “Structure, plans, organization, predictability and order are great ways to reduce anxiety in children,” says Martin. The pediatric mental health expert suggests that parents should have a family calendar complete with upcoming activities in a common location. This should include all important celebrations, vacations, practices, camps and park visits. Cross off the days and keep it updated. 5. Prioritize sleep Sleep is essential to your child’s well-being,

valleysentinel.com and especially important if your child struggles with anxiety. Optimally, your child’s sleep schedule should transition from late nights to proper school night bedtime three weeks prior to school starting, gradually getting earlier. “By the last week of summer before school starts, be sure they are at the new school year bedtime,” she advises. “Dealing with stress and feelings of anxiety can be exhausting!” Even if the school year has already started, help your child develop healthy sleep habits.

explains. “But for now, that’s OK. Having a personal space the way he or she wants it can reduce irritability and stress.” Once school is underway and your child has gotten used to the new schedule and adapted to the extra stress, remind him or her about the importance of a clean room. 9. Wear comfy attire Just as a fleece sweatshirt can be your favorite creature comfort, a soft sweater or shirt can feel like an oasis of calm to your child. “When a child feels anxious, their sensitivity is heightened,

6. Take a bath If your child has trouble getting to sleep, suggest a warm bath or shower in the evening to promote relaxation. Martin recommends a bath or shower 15 minutes before bedtime. “This allows a minor drop in body temperature which will help the body fall into a deep sleep; a warm shower will have a calming effect as well,” she adds. 7. Schedule quiet time “It is not natural for children to go from the freedom of doing what they want in the summer to a very structured and social schedule when the new school year begins,” says Martin. “Leading up to and throughout the first month of school, designate 30 to 60 minutes a day for your child to have alone time to read, watch TV and play on their own.” It can help your child breathe deeply and relax both mind and body. 8. Respect personal space Even if your biggest peeve is a messy room, now is not the time to nag or punish your child for disarray. “When getting ready to go back to school, your child’s world is turning upside down, so yes, his or her room might not be spic and span,” Martin

especially to the touch,” Martin adds. “Be mindful of how clothes feel when shopping for back-to-school outfits.” She recommends soft, tagless items that will help your child feel more comfortable. 10. Consider behavioral therapy Martin emphasizes that back to school is usually the most difficult time for a child with anxiety issues. However, be concerned if a few weeks pass and your child’s anxiety hasn’t decreased or has gotten worse. “If your child has not adapted well to the new school year, seek out a counseling professional who specializes in pediatric anxiety disorders,” the children’s health expert adds. In the San Ramon Valley Unified School District, Discovery Counseling Center counselors are available at every elementary and middle school to help students who might be dealing with anxiety issues. Contact your child’s teacher if you are concerned about his or her transition back to school or call Discovery at 925.837.0505. You can find a digital copy of this article at www.sheknows. com/health-and-wellness/ articles/968637/10-tips-to-easeback-to-school-anxiety.

Kids and Teens valleysentinel.com

August 2015

Local Students earn Rotary Scholarships The Rotary Club of Danville has awarded four, $1,000 scholarships to San Ramon Valley High School seniors who have provided exemplary community service and vocational service. Recipients chosen from a field of 17 finalists include: Taylor Cuenin, Isabel Gervis, Regan Leach and Sophie Zhang. The Rotary Club of Danville annually awards scholarships to students who pursue vocational service activities related to future occupations as well as community service activities that benefit the local community. “This year’s scholarship recipients are exceptionally accomplished scholars and community service-minded role models who personify the Rotary motto of “Service Above Self,” said Danville Rotary President Steve Simpkins. The four scholarships were awarded in memory of past Rotary Club of Danville leaders who exemplify dedication to community and service including: Graham Sullivan, Cliff Forsyth, John Roberts and Joe Hirsh. Taylor Cuenin San Ramon High School Associated Student Body President and scholarship recipient Taylor Cuenin has led activities to better her school, class and community. She has been involved in food drives and hosted international children visiting the community DANE from page 1 to their dream and, after the event, to provide a path, plan and resources to help them reach their goal. Dane Quijano Sur was nominated by American astronaut Buzz Aldrin, Science Director of the National Academy of Future Scientists and Technologists to represent California based on his academic achievement, leadership potential and passion for science and technology. During the three-day Congress, Dane Quijano Sur joined students from across the country and heard Nobel Laureates and National Medal of Science Winners talk about leading scientific research;

and is an active participant in Our Little Brothers and Sisters, an international organization that provides education and healthcare to abandoned children. One of her favorite activities is participating in Lend-A-Hand Day, helping homeowners who cannot maintain their yards. She was awarded the Graham Sullivan Memorial Award. Isabel Gervis Isabel Gervis’ vocational goal is to become a bioengineer. She is president of Science Alliance, a club which pairs 5th grade “buddies” with high school “mentors” to complete Science Fair projects and foster interest in sciences. Gervis is also a senior Girl Scout camp counselor devoted to teaching girls outdoor cooking and athletic skills. She received the Joe Hirsch Memorial Award. Regan Leach As president of the San Ramon Valley High School Interact Club, a junior Rotary Club organization for students, Regan Leach led a food drive for the Food Bank of Contra Costa and Solano Counties, helped senior citizens and hospitalized children and raised funds for the Taylor Family Foundation, a nonprofit that sends children in need to camp. She received the John Roberts Memorial Award. Sophie Zhang Sophie Zhang has volunteered at John Muir

was given advice from deans of the world’s top tech universities; was inspired by fellow teen science prodigies; and learned about cuttingedge advances and the future of science and technology. “This is a crucial time in America when we need more nimble-minded and creative scientists and technologists who are even better prepared for a future that is changing exponentially,” said Richard Rossi, Executive Director, National Academy of Future Scientists and Technologists. “Focused, bright and determined students like Dane Quijano Sur are our future and he deserves all the mentoring and guidance we can give him.”

Medical Center where she assists patients. She has also participated in service projects for the Youth Action Council which serves the Special Olympics and Leukemia and Lymphoma Society among other service organizations. She recently volunteered as a teaching assistant for Breakthrough Oakland which is dedicated to providing educational opportunities for middle school-aged students. She received the Cliff Forsyth Memorial Award. “We had a difficult job selecting only four winners,” said Simpkins. “Those selected represent an impressive group of service minded young people from our community that reflect the goals of the Rotary Club of Danville and the memories of past Rotarians who exemplify true dedication to helping others.” Rotary Club of Danville Rotary is an organization of local business, professional and community leaders committed to the ideal of service above self. It is united worldwide to provide humanitarian service, encourage high ethical standards in all vocations and help build goodwill and peace in the world. The Rotary Club of Danville is the oldest Rotary Club in the San Ramon Valley. Members believe in sweat equity service projects as well as providing financial support for local

The Academy offers free services and programs to students who have the desire to learn more about their future in science or technology. Some of the services and programs the Academy offers include online social networks through which these future scientists and technologists can communicate; opportunities for students to be guided and mentored by tech and science leaders; and communications for parents and students on college acceptance and finances, skills acquisition, internships, career guidance and much more.

The valley Sentinel

page 9

and international service projects. All meetings are open to guests. Past Rotary projects include donating backpacks and dictionaries to local school children, a $35,000 donation to the remodel of the Veterans Hall and ongoing support of the Discovery Counseling Center, a community-based non-profit organization dedicated to enhancing the well-being and quality of life for individuals and families in the Greater San Ramon Valley. Rotary Club of Danville’s recent Crab Feed netted $38,000 which will be used for community philanthropic projects such as the scholarship awards.

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Chances are, you or someone in your family either has Medicare or Medicaid or you know someone who does. In fact, Medicare and Medicaid cover nearly 1 out of every 3 Americans—that’s well over 100 million people. Marking the 50th anniversary of these lifesaving programs this summer gives us an important opportunity to recognize and remember the ways these programs transformed the delivery of health care in the United States. Fifty years later, no other program has changed the lives of Americans more than Medicare and Medicaid. Today, about 55 million Americans depend on Medicare to cover 23 types of preventive services, including flu shots and diabetes screenings (some of these services are free; for others you have a deductible and a small copayment.) Medicare also covers hospital stays, doctor bills, lab tests, supplies like wheelchairs and walkers, and prescription drugs. Medicaid provides comprehensive coverage to more than 70 million eligible children, pregnant women, low-income adults and people living with disabilities. It covers essential services like annual check-ups, care for new and expecting mothers, and dental care for kids from lowincome families. Medicare and Medicaid provide more and more Americans with access to the quality and affordable health care they need and deserve to live happy, healthy, and productive lives. Though they started as basic health programs for people who had no other access to

and Medicaid have helped millions get access to care they wouldn’t get otherwise. Over the course of five decades, Medicare and Medicaid have become the standard bearers for coverage, quality, and innovation in American health care. Innovative and dedicated teams are combating fraud and working to continually improve the quality of life and care delivered under these programs. Medicare and Medicaid are among the most efficient and wellmanaged health insurance programs in the world. They will continue to transform to create a health care system that delivers better care, spends health care dollars more wisely, and results in healthier people. President Johnson would be heartened to know that the hard-fought efforts to improve our health care system have not only succeeded, but that America is on track to give even better access, higher quality care, and improved health for the next 50 years and beyond. How has Medicare or Medicaid (or both) helped your life or that of someone you care about? Whether you’ve just enrolled or have been covered for decades, we’d love to hear from you. You can share your Medicare or Medicaid story through our Medicare.gov website, or connect with us onTwitter or our just-launched Facebook page. 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 (1-800-633-4227).

Leslie Steller named Rotary Club of Danville President Will lead community service for 2015-16

Leslie Steller of Alamo was recently sworn in as Rotary Club of Danville President by Judge Richard Calhoun. Steller, a former marketing executive, joined the 60-year old club in 2012 and will now lead

community service activities. Rotary Club of Danville provides sweat equity and financial support to local and international service projects. She succeeds Steve Simpkins as president of the Valley’s oldest Rotary Club.

valleysentinel.com

August 2015

The VAlley SenTinel

Sentinel Ryan Sykes Honored as Veteran of the Year for California Assembly District 16 Sentinel Ryan Sykes was recently honored on July 1st, 2015 at the the Danville Veterans Memorial Hall as California Assembly District 16’s Veteran of the Year. He was awarded this honor by California State Assemblywoman, Catharine Baker who recognized Ryan’s achievements as a member of the US Navy and those following his retirement from the Armed Forces after suffering a severe Traumatic Brain Injury in Afghanistan that nearly cost him his life. Ryan was injured during a nighttime motorcycle accident on a forward operating base in Afghanistan in 2008, laying for more than 5 hours unconscious in the dark,

until local Afghanis found him. Ryan was the Honor Graduate for his Naval

Special Warfare Intelligence Course. He was also selected as the U.S. Navy Junior Sailor of the Year, was awarded a Bronze Star for his work in Iraq and Afghanistan, and honored with the Intelligence Specialist of the Year Award. Despite the many challenges that come with a

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traumatic brain injury, Ryan has not allowed himself to be held back by his need for a wheelchair but has pushed forward, taking every opportunity to live life. Since his injury, he has participated in bike races, tough mudders, skydiving, rock climbing and white water rafting. Ryan is a member of the Dougherty Valley San Ramon Rotary Club and works with the San Ramon Valley Police Department as an Intel Analyst. As a prominent member of the local community, the Veterans Hall was filled to capacity with friends and supporters who wished to celebrate with Ryan as he was honored for his courage, perseverance, and commitment to the community.

Contra Costa Homeless Respite Program Honored with National Award To learn more about the A Contra Costa Health Services (CCHS) program that provides healthcare, shelter and other services to homeless county residents referred by local hospitals for care after serious illness or injury has earned a national award for its quality and the dedication of its staff. The National Health Care for the Homeless Council recognized the CCHS Public Health Division’s Health Care for the Homeless Program (HCH) with its 2015 Medical Respite Award for Excellence at its annual conference earlier this year. The nonprofit council supports more than 200 public health centers and programs in every state. “It is a tremendous honor to be recognized by the Council,” said Sue Crosby, director of CCHS Public Health Clinic Services. “Our program began as two nurses using their own cars to find and care for patients living in camps along bike trails and under freeway overpasses.” HCH and the CCHS Behavioral Health Division’s Homeless Program now provide integrated services at the Philip Dorn Respite Center in Concord, a 26-bed facility that opened in 2010

in response to a growing need for reliable posthospital care for homeless adults in the county. The center serves more than 300 patients each year who have no place to go after their release from the hospital but remain sick or medically vulnerable, making a return to the street even more dangerous. In recent years, center services have expanded to include health screenings, vaccinations, medical treatment, psychiatric assessments, dental services, medication from an on-site pharmacy, case management and referrals to Medi-Cal. Respite helps patients recover more quickly and safely, and connects them to critical services and resources they might otherwise never receive. It also reduces the likelihood of repeated, expensive visits to hospital emergency rooms by patients struggling to recuperate on their own. The National Health Care for the Homeless Council is a network of more than 10,000 doctors, nurses, social workers, patients, and advocates working to provide comprehensive healthcare and secure housing for all.

organization or the award, visit nhchc.org. To learn more about Contra Costa Health Care for the Homeless or the Philip Dorn Respite Center, visit cchealth.org/ healthcare-for-homeless.

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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.) San Ramon Farmers Market Every Saturday & Thursday-Year-round, Bishop Ranch Wednesday, April-Sept, Windermere Buy fresh, seasonal produce directly from local farmers at San Ramon Farmers Market. Connect with your community while shopping at a festive gathering place with live music! www.SanRamonFarmersMarket.org 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. Forest Home Farms Historic Park & Glass House Museum–open for Fun on the Farm 2nd Saturday of each month. 10am-2pm. Enjoy tours of the Glass House Museum, the farm and its history, interactive exhibits including the tractor museum, the beautiful grounds and free activities. Visit the Welcome Center and purchase old-fashioned toys and gifts at the Gift Shoppe. Tours are $5 per person, or $8 for both tours on the same day. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3284 or visit www. sanramon.ca.gov. First Thursday Shop Local Day and Night 10am-7pm. Join in the fun in downtown Danville at the First Thursday Shopping and Dining Event. Downtown Hartz Avenue, Danville. www.danville.ca.gov. Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) Meeting Every Tuesday 8-10am. This Weight Loss Support Group provides a space for those who wish to lose weight. St. Timothy’s, 1550 Diablo Rd. 925-838-7870. Danville Consignment Week - Double Deals in Danville when you Dine & Shop August 6-14 Celebrate CONSIGNMENT WEEK with an exciting DINE & SHOP offer. Simply bring any Danville restaurant receipt (dated July 16th – August 14th) over $50 to any of the four Downtown Danville consignment stores listed below and you’ll earn a Free $10 Consignment Discount on any purchase over $50. Participating stores include; A Dress Change at 125 Railroad Ave., Suite B; Something Old Something New at 155 Railroad Ave., Suite E; Cottage Jewel at 100 W Prospect Ave; and Consignit Couture at 395 Hartz Ave. The event is sponsored by: Discover Danville Association, Town of Danville and Danville Premier Consignment Shops. For more information, contact Tony Adamich at 510.206.0093.

The Summer Contra Costa Crystal Fair August 8-9 Saturday 10am-6pm, Sunday 10am-4pm Get Ready for the Contra Costa Crystal Fair featuring a magical mix of crystals, minerals, beads and jewelry. Come to find crystals, beads, minerals and jewelry from all over the world, as well as a aura camera, tarot reader, sound healer and much more. Admission is $8 (children under 12 are free) Civic Park Community Center at 1375 Civic Drive in Walnut Creek. Information at www.crystalfair.com or (415) 383-7837 Thursday, August 13th Prima’s Annual Evening in Provence Join us as Chef Peter gets his Pissaladiere on! Lovely Provencal wine will be poured and a good time will be had by all! Post Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance Open House August 17 10am-5pm Please join us and enjoy our hospitality and remarkable collection of cars. Those who’ve been to the Museum before, and those first time visitors, are all invited to see the display of classic, unique and famous automobiles. Admission to the Museum and refreshments are complimentary. 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville www.blackhawkmuseum. org Twilight Tasting Fundraiser August 20 4:30-8pm Come enjoy wine tasting , refreshments, vendors and music, with 10% of profits benefitting the capital campaign to Save the Old 1850’s Barn. Admission is $10.1960 S. Livermore Avenue in Livermore.www.pagemillwinery.com Wild Cats at Lindsay Wildlife August 22 A Cheetah, an Ocelot, a Geoffrey’s Cat and a young Black Leopard are visiting Lindsay Wildlife on August 22nd. 1931 First Ave., Walnut Creek. Information: 925-935-1978. www. lindsaywildlife.org Thursday, August 27th The Regional European Table ‘A Belgian Beer Fest’ With special guest ‘lecturer,’ our own Peter ‘Hey Beer Man’ Andrews. Class starts at 6:30 attendance will be taken. Prima’s always-eclectic selection will include wines from all around the world. This drop-in tasting runs from 2-5 PM, $5 per taster which can applied towards a purchase of any of the wines tasted. R   SVPs not required- just come on in. Tri-Valley Cultural Jews 10th anniversary August 30 10:30am - noon. Tri-Valley Cultural Jews is celebrating with a kunzits – a singing and dancing party, open to all. The community is invited to come learn easy Yiddish and Hebrew songs dances and enjoy a “nosh” at The Bothwell Center, 2466 8th St. between I and G in Livermore. trivalleyculturaljews. wordpress.com Journey Stories at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley August 29 - September 26 Journey Stories is a travelling exhibit from the Smithsonian Institution. It tells the tales of how we and our ancestors came to America and how they are a central element of our personal heritage. 205 Railroad Avenue, Danville Located at the corner of Railroad and Prospect Avenues www.museumsrv.org (925) 837-3750 Danville Home Expo ‘15 August 30, 2015 10am - 4am. Don’t put off your home improvement projects any longer! The Danville Home Expo is a premier daylong expo that covers every step of the remodeling process. Admission is free to the public. Danville Community Center, 420 Front Street, Danville, CA. Dita Trunk Show September 5 2-6pm. Come see the full collection Saturday September 5th, 2015 from 2pm-6pm. Refreshments and hors d’oeuvres provided. Free AR (anti-reflective) coating with your purchase

and other great giveaways will take place. Poplar Spectacles Optometry, 215 Alamo Plaza Suite D, Alamo The Taylor Family Foundation Annual Day in the Park August 30 Join TTFF in celebration of 25 years of giving at its Annual Day in the Park auction fundraiser scheduled for Sunday, August 30 at Camp Arroyo in Livermore. Proceeds from the auction support The Taylor Family Foundation’s mission to preserve the wellness and enhance the quality of life for children in Northern California living with life-threatening and chronic illnesses, developmental disabilities and youth at-risk through unique therapeutic experiences and support. For more information, please visit www.ttff.org or call (925) 455-5118. SENIORS Danville Seniors Unless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-3143490 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-nRide (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: 925-3143400 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

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.

valleysentinel.com BUSINESS San Ramon Chamber of Commerce Third Thursday

Mixer - ClubSport San Ramon Aug 20 5:30-7pm. Meet other business owners for an opportunity to network and make your business more visible. $5 for Members and $20 for NonMembers. No RSVP Required. Checks and Cash only please. ClubSport San Ramon, 350 Bollinger Canyon Lane, San Ramon. www.sanramon.org

San Ramon Chamber of Commerce New and Future Member Orientation Aug 25 4-5pm. Learn about the various Chamber services that can benefit your business. Free. RSVP 925242-0600. San Ramon Chamber of Commerce, Bishop Ranch 6, 2400 Camino Ramon Conference Room 158/K, San Ramon

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 dawca.aauw.net for meeting dates. Cancer workshops and support groups-Ongoing Most are free. Cancer Support C o m m u n i t y, 3 2 7 6 M c N u t t 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 925837-0510. Hope Hospice Grief Support Groups-Ongoing Hope Hospice provides support to h e l p y o u u n d e r s ta n d a n d 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 925829-8770. Hospice of the East Bay Support groups and workshops for adults, children and teens experiencing grief after the death of a loved one. Classes w i l l b e o ff e r e d a t H o s p i c e ’ 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.

August 2015 RECURRING Mondays: T h e Wa l n u t C r e e k G a r d e n 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: 925-973-3250. Sons In Retirement (Las Tr a m p a s B r a n c h ) M o n t h l y Luncheon 11:30am. Meets the third Monday of each month, except for May and December. If you are retired or semi-retired 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. D a n v i l l e / S y c a m o r e Va l l e y Rotary 7 a m . M e e t s e v e r y Tu e s d a y morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Information: dsvrotary.com. Diablo View Toastmasters 8:15-9:15am. Meets every T u e s d a y. C M G M o r t g a g e , 4th Floor Conference Room, 3160 Crow Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Information: 4160. toastmastersclubs.org. Walnut Creek Kiwanis Club 12:10-1:30pm. Meets e v e r y Tu e s d a y. M a s s i m o ’ s Ristorante, 1604 Locust Street,  Wa l n u t C r e e k . I n f o r m a t i o n : kiwanisofwalnutcreek.org. Walnut Creek Rotary 12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Wa l n u t C r e e k . I n f o r m a t i o n : 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 925-887-5681 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/communityprograms.html. Wednesdays: Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every We d n e s d a y. 1 6 6 0 O a k P a r k Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost.net Hospice of the East Bay Drop-in Bereavement Support 4:30-6pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill. Information: 925-887-5681 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. Info: sanramonvalleyrotary.com. Danville Lions Club 7pm. Meets the first and third Wednesday each month at The Brass Door at 2154 San R a m o n Va l l e y B l v d . i n S a n Ramon. Information: Pat.Porter@ hannaglobal.com Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley 12pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month. Signin and social time begins at 11:30. Guests are welcome with lunch reservations. Faz Restaurant, 600 Hartz Ave., Danville. RSVP 925-275-2412. Info: visit www. srvexchangeclub.org Walnut Creek Host Lion’s Club 12:15pm. Meets the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Black Bear Diner, 700 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Information: walnutcreeklions.org. Blue Star Moms 7-9pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month to participate in service activities supporting sons/daughters serving in the military. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.org. 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.

The VAlley SenTinel Diablo Valley Quilters 7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests. Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters.com. Veterans of Foreign Wars 7pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925-362-9806 or vfwpost75.org. Diablo Singles Dance Club 7-10pm. Meets the last Wednesday of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $8, Guests $12. All welcome. 111N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Thursdays: 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. Rotary Club of San Ramon 11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org. San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Club 1st, 2nd and 4th Thursdays at Noon, and the 3rd Wednesdays at 6pm—all at Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Round Hill Rd., Alamo. www.kiwanis-srv.org. Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church room 3,   2 491 San Miguel Drive,  Walnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627. Diablo Valley Lions Club 7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of every month. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca. lionwap.org. Fridays: Transitions - “Navigating Life’s Turning Points Together” 9-11:30am. Our group now has a new name, which has been changed from TENS to Transitions.

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Our mission is to encourage and support women from empty nest, to aging parents and everything in between. Community Presbyterian Church, Room 116, 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville. Information: Barb Miller at bajumil@yahoo. com or Donna Hill at hillmom3@ comcast.net Saturdays: Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America 7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca. org. 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 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 P l a z a . O u r p a r t n e r, S c o t t ’ 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 Business Intelligence Architect Developer: Company: Bank of the West. Location: San Ramon, CA. Position Type: Full Time. Experience: 5 years.. Education: Bachelor’s Degree.Bach. in C.I.S., C.S. or related & 5 yrs. rlt. exp. CV to careers@bankofthewest.com Sr. IT App. Engr.: B.S. in C. S., Eng., or rltd. & 6 yrs. rltd. exp. CV to: Bank of the West H.R.@ careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA.

Community News & Information Danville • Blackhawk Alamo • Diablo • San Ramon Publisher/Editor - Denise Rousset Chief Financial Ofﬁcer - Jeff Gummere Graphic Designer - Laurie Prindle Auto - David & Judy Colman Contributing Writer - Alison Clary Web Support - ewebsiteservices.com Intern - Paulina Fischer, MVHS Intern - Jared Wong, MVHS

925-820-6047

390 Diablo Road, Suite 145 Danville, CA 94526

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page 14

AUTO March 2009 July 2015

The valley Sentinel

valleysentinel.com

Gopro Grand Prix Of Sonoma Preview By Judy And David Colman The IndyCar race at Sonoma has a new date for 2015: August 28-30. Since the Indycars started coming to Sonoma in 2005, the race has taken place in midAugust as the penultimate event on the series calendar. All that has changed this year, and the news couldn’t be more exciting for local

Ryan Briscoe and Graham Rahal set up for Turn 3 during practice for the Iowa Corn 300 at Iowa Speedway. Photo by: Chris Owens IndyCar fans. For the first time, the GOPRO Grand Prix will be the last event

Marco Andretti sits in his Honda machine prior to rolling out for practice for the Iowa Corn 300 at Iowa Speedway. Photo by: Chris Owens

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battling for parking once inside the track, then think However, Iowa changed all about taking the train of the season. As such, it that when Montoya exited to the race on Sunday, will decide the IndyCar the race and wrecked his August 30. This run starts champion for 2015. And Penske on lap 10 due to a in Sacramento, makes a it will do so in dramatic stop in Fairfield, and fashion, because the arrives just outside Sonoma race will the speedway gates pay double points to in plenty of time the winner of this to enjoy Sunday’s one round. Unlike shoot-out for the NASCAR and NHRA IndyCar title. Those which prolong the of you who happen championship battle to be rail buffs as over an extended well as race fans series of playoff will be fascinated to events, IndyCar is learn that the race content to let this train covers track one round at Sonoma Juan Pablo Montoya and Marco Andretti set up for Turn 1 practice for the Iowa Corn 300 mileage from Fairfield decide their season at Iowa Speedway. Photo by: Chris Jones to Sonoma that is title. suspension failure. By the NOT part of any Amtrak or Of course, the prospect end of the night, Montoya’s Caltrain scheduled service. of a single event decider comfort margin had shrunk If you’ve never attended wouldn’t be quite so to just 42 points over new an IndyCar race at Sonoma, exciting if one driver second place holder Graham here’s a veteran’s quick had managed to hijack Rahal, son of Indy 500 guide to the track and your the championship before winner Bobby Rahal. Dixon best viewing spots. If you Sonoma. For a long while, fell to third, 48 points adrift. it looked like that would With 3 races yet to run, and be the case, with Juan the Sonoma round paying Pablo Montoya holding a double points, you can be commanding points lead sure the GOPRO event will that included his big win display the kind of finality for Team Penske at this fireworks it has never before year’s Indy 500. In fact enjoyed. by the time the Indycar This year, for the first circus reached Iowa for the time ever, Sonoma Raceway Iowa Corn 300 on July 19, is offering to take you direct Montoya had amassed a Scott Dixon rolls down the to the race via rail. If you’d seemingly insurmountable frontstretch during practice love to attend, but dislike 54 point lead over his for the Iowa Corn 300 at Iowa the prospect of sitting in nearest competitor, Team Speedway. Photo by: Chris traffic on Highway 37 or Ganassi driver Scott Dixon. Owens

Pippa Mann sits under some umbrella shade prior to practice for the Iowa Corn 300 at Iowa Speedway. Photo by: Chris Jones can make it to practice on Friday or qualifying on Saturday, try to start your adventure with a quick run through the garage area. Slip your hiking boots on, and amble up the rather steep hill to Turn 2 for a terrific panoramic view of the whole 12 turn, 2.38 mile road course. From here you can see Vallejo. Stroll across the spectator bridge between the paddock and Turn 1 for a close look at the 180 degree Carrousel Turn 6. Our favorite spot on the circuit during the practice days is the chicane IndyCar uses in lieu of Turn 10. The grandstands on the backside of the dramatic Esses (Turns 7/8/9) let you view the Dallara race cars as they crest a rise on the See GOPROW page 15

We Need Your Help ASAP!

Hop on the Barn Wagon! Dear Friends, As you may know, the last great project for Rodgers Ranch is the restoration of our wheat barn, built circa 1869. We have fallen into some good fortune because another barn, is slated for demolition, and the wood has been promised to us in exchange for labor. This wood will provide us with enough material to complete the rebuilding of the wheat barn at Rodgers Ranch. This is a great volunteer opportunity for anyone, professional builder or not, who would like to help with this demolition and the eventual reconstruction of the barn. This fun project will take several months to complete, so we will be working on it both during the week and on weekends. If you are interested in helping us take down one barn and re-construct another, please send your contact information to me using either email address: CRousset@comcast.net or info@rodgersranch.org. Thank you for your interest, Christian (Chris) Rousset Board of Directors & Chair of Structures & Grounds Committee, Rogers Ranch Heritage Center 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

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valleysentinel.com

August 2015

The VAlley SenTinel

Contra Costa Health provides needed assistance in wake of Doctors Medical Center closure

Nutro Natural Choice Dog Food 30 lb. Lamb and Rice

By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

Doctor’s Medical Center (Doctor’s) in San Pablo closed its doors on April 21, 2015. It was not a County Hospital, but run by the West Contra Costa Healthcare District. The County has the legal obligation to provide care for the indigent and poor, and Doctor’s served much of that same population. The County understood that it would need to coordinate with other medical providers and help fill the gap in rendering medical care to the people of West Contra Costa. Since the closure of Doctor’s many residents of West Contra Costa County have been receiving medical assistance from Contra Costa’s Health Plan’s (CCHP) Advice Nurse and through the non-profit LifeLong Urgent Care Clinic, located across the street from Doctor’s. At a recent Board of Supervisor’s meeting a doctor estimated that 80 to 85% of the patients visiting the Doctor’s Emergency Room could have been treated at an Urgent Care clinic. Since April 21st, CCHP’s Nurse Unit has fielded 2,843 calls from West County residents and made 357 referrals to LifeLong Urgent Care. CCHP has partnered with LifeLong Medical Care to ensure that residents of West Contra Costa continue to have adequate medical care and facilities. Advice nurses can help patients figure out if they need to go to an Emergency Room, visit an urgent care clinic or make an appointment for the next day. Advice nurses also can provide information for self-care. They handle minor issues like a sore throat, earache, GOPRO from page 14 back straight at 140mph and brake down to 30mph for the quick right-left immediately in front of you. The chicane is without question the most exciting spot to watch these cars and drivers perform at full tilt. But for the race itself, you’ll get a better

urinary tract infection, sinus infection symptoms, and other nonlife-threatening conditions. CCHP Advice Nurses have helped many callers meet their needs without having to go to an Emergency Room or seek Urgent Care. Uninsured County residents can call CCHP’s 24/7 advice nurse line for free. That number is 1-877-661-6230 option 1. Other major private insurance companies provide their own Nurse Hot Lines. Advice Nurses in West County may suggest residents visit LifeLong Urgent Care. LifeLong Medical Care is an innovative, nonprofit Federally Qualified Health Center serving Alameda, Contra Costa and Marin Counties. LifeLong has 11 primary care medical centers, two dental centers, an adult day health center, four school-based health centers and a supportive housing program. Their mission is stated as “to provide high quality urgent care services in a caring and convenient environment by focusing on your needs from the time you walk through our door until the time you leave.” The clinic provides immediate care for walk-ins or same-day appointments for patients who need timely medical care but who are not having a medical emergency. Lifelong Urgent Care has now treated more than 1,587 patients averaging 30/day. LifeLong Urgent Care is located at 2023 Vale Road, San Pablo, CA 94806. They are open 7 days a week, 12:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. The facility can be reached at (510) 2319800, and on the web at www.lifelongmedical.org. Both uninsured and insured residents are welcomed at the facility. With the closure of Doctor’s, there has also

been an impact on local Emergency Rooms where critically ill and injured patients need to be seen. Kaiser Richmond, Alta Bates in Berkeley, and our County Hospital in Martinez are all seeing a higher volume of patients. This increase began last fall when the County’s Emergency Medical System began the process of dispatching ambulances to hospitals other than Doctor’s. CCHP has also been distributing handouts listing healthcare resources for West County residents, available in several languages, including Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and Laotian. Contra Costa Health, in partnership with LifeLong Medical and other facilities, has been able to successfully provide necessary medical care to many of the residents of West Contra Costa County in the wake of Doctor’s Medical Center’s closure. While there will likely be more changes ahead, what could have been a serious healthcare crisis is being averted through this public and private partnership of care. 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. A special thanks to summer intern Peter Hutchins for his contributions to this article. 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.

picture of what’s happening if you hike up to the Dale Earnhardt grandstand at Turn 2. The track provides comprehensive bus service to all points on the circuit from the main paddock area. Chose comfortable shoes, carry lots of water, and pack a radio with earplugs

to pick up the trackside commentary. Long pants and shorts make a dusty day in the sun easier to take. If you’ve forgotten to bring a windbreaker, you’ll have ample opportunity to buy one from the many team concessionaires in the fascinating paddock.

page 15

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The VAlley SenTinel

August 2015

valleysentinel.com

See Our Progress “PG&E” refers to Pacific Gas and Electric Company, a subsidiary of PG&E Corporation. ©2015 Pacific Gas and Electric Company. All rights reserved. Paid for by PG&E shareholders. All facts 2013/2014 unless otherwise noted.

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