Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon
VALLEY
THE
SENTINEL always for the community VOl 22, nO 8
Find out what’s new in the Valley at
www.valleysentinel.com
Arts • Activities • Auto • Business • Gardening • Seniors and more...
august 2017
www.valleysentinel.com
SPOTLIGHT
Antiques and Upcycled Market coming Labor Day Continue your Summer quest for new experiences and join the 11th annual Relics on Railroad festivities around the Museum of the San Ramon Valley. Expect the unexpected from the 50 plus visiting vintage dealers, artisans, antiques aficionados and flea market diggers. In addition to the Victorian, Edwardian, Art Deco and Retro Modern period artifacts, this year’s September 4th Monday market
ECRWSS
Postmaster: Dated Material
PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID DANVILLE, CA PERMIT NO. 70
See PROSPECTING page 9
Sentinel Newspapers, Inc. 542 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Ste A P.O. Box 1309 Danville, CA 94526 925-820-6047
Congratulations to everyone on the 2017 HOOTS Connie Mack team, players and coaches for an outstanding season to advance to the Connie Mack National Championship Finals. (L to R) Row 1: Sitting; Mike Winaker, Matt Jew, Luke O’Brien, Mark Molz, Nick Santiago, Ryan Cole, Brandon Greim, Mason Legate, and Sam Dinnerman. ROW 2: Kneeling; Mitch Benson, Nate Jessell, Trevor Wallace, Paul Griessel, Russ Stevenson, Khalid Johnson, Jared Wilson, and Tyler Schultz. ROW 3: Standing; Coach Dan Ward, Nick Krauth, Coach Chris DeClercq, Brett Tressen, Will Bishop, Gabe Giosso, Gio Mijares, Zack Patterson, Coach Pat Massoni, and Manager Don Johns. For the story see page 9
The American Badger active in Las Trampas by James Hale
The American Badger (Taxidea taxus), is the second largest member of the weasel family found in North America. Only the Wolverine is larger. American Badgers range from the western and central United States, northern Mexico, and southcentral Canada to specific areas of southwestern British Columbia. The American Badger is covered with a long, dense coat of grizzled, brown, yellowish-gray, black and white coarse hair or fur, giving it a mixed brown-tan or silver appearance. The pelage is longer on the sides than on the back and belly, providing camouflage in grassland and prairie habitats. Badgers are trapped by humans for their pelts, and their fur is used for shaving and painting brushes. A white stripe originates on the nose and runs back onto the shoulders, or sometimes beyond. Dark brownish
black, crescent-shaped “badges” mark the cheek between the ears and eyes. The triangular face and head are whitish or pale buff. These short-legged, muscular mammals have a f l a t t e n e d o r c o m p re s s e d appearance of the body. The tail is short and moderately furred. Badgers prefer areas with sandy loam soils where they can dig more easily for available prey. Grasslands, high mountain meadows, rolling foothills bordering valleys, and open riparian woodlands are preferred habitat. Powerful forefeet are modified for semifossorial digging, with the three sharp, central claws on each forefoot greatly elongated and recurved. An American Badger den may exceed thirty feet in length, with
elliptical burrow diameters of about twelve inches. The American Badger preys predominately on pocket gophers, ground squirrels, voles, kangaroo rats, prairie dogs, marmots, pikas, woodrats, and deer mice. Badgers often dig to pursue prey into their dens, sometimes plugging entrances. The American Badger is a significant predator of snakes, and is considered the most important predator of rattlesnakes in South Dakota. Ground-nesting birds, amphibians, lizards, fish, carrion, skunks, insects, snails, eggs, and some plants including corn, green beans, mushrooms, and sunflower seeds are also eaten. Badgers make an incredible variety of sounds, including barks, growls, hisses, squeals and
This month’s Special Section:
Kids & Teens Back to School
page 8
snarls, to name a few. Badgers are generally nocturnal, however with no human encroachment, they are routinely observed foraging during the day. Badgers do not hibernate. Instead, they become less active during winter and inclement weather, spending time in cycles of torpor or inactivity that last around 29 hours. The American Badger has been seen working with Coyotes and Red-tailed Hawks, with the coyotes benefitting with an See BADGER page 4
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
page 2
The Valley SenTinel
Pleasing the Palette - A Visual Feast Now - August 18 The exhibit will showcase original artwork by Bay Area artists spotlighting their creative interpretations of the theme “Pleasing to the Palette” and displaying the marriage of food and art. The works this year will be judged by Maria Medua, who serves as the director of the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art (SFMOMA) artists gallery and has organized more than 50 gallery exhibitions and has worked closely with 300 artists. Village Theater and Art Gallery, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or (925) 314-3460.
Sweet n Low–an International Show of Cute Now – August 27 Sweet n Low features artwork from over 130 local, national, and international artists who extend the genre of cute from cuddly and precious to creepy and ironic. From kitsch and Margaret Keane’s
Big Eyes, to Japanese anime and contemporary Pop Art, we’re unleashing the roly-poly, goofily-gamboling, saccharinehoneyed creatures on this earth and beyond! $5. Inside the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Dr. Walnut Creek. More information including full artist list at www.BedfordGallery. org/SweetnLow or call 925295-1415.
14th Annual Danville Art & Wine Stroll Downtown Danville August 17 6 – 9pm. Enjoy a fun-filled evening of art appreciation, wine tasting, small bites, the latest offerings from our shops, live music, a commemorative wine glass and trolley rides during the 14th Annual Art and Wine Stroll in Danville. Select businesses will stay open late to host some of our area’s finest wines as you stroll downtown Danville and enjoy live music from local musicians throughout the evening.
14th Annual Danville Art & Wine Stroll Downtown Danville
August 17 6 – 9pm
Artists • Wine Tasting • Small Bites • Tote Bag Commemorative Wine Glass • Live Music Tickets $35 per Person Designated Drivers $15 Purchase online at
DanvilleAreaChamber.com or call the Chamber at 925-837-4400
august 2017 General Admission tickets $35 and $15 for non-drinkers/ designated drivers. Tickets can be redeemed for wine glasses at each venue from 5:30-7:30pm the night of the event. If there are any remaining wine glasses, they’ll be available for sale for $45 starting at 6:30pm. This event has sold out in past years, so be sure to reserve your glass early! Sponsored by the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce, Auburn James, Glennhawk Vineyards, 92.1 KKDV, 101.7 KKIQ, Diablo Magazine, and the Town of Danville. Purchase tickets online at: www.danvilleareachamber. com/shop/
Dixieland Jazz August 19 1:30-4:30pm. On the 3rd Saturday of every month you can enjoy the music of the Devil Mountain Jazz Band. Bring your own beverages, snacks and a friend or two! There is a large dance floor and lots of free parking. $15. Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Road, Danville. Information: visit www.jazznut.com or call 925625-2707. Dillon Magh Adhair Irish Dance Recital August 19 - 20 7pm. Enjoy an evening of Irish dance from world gold medalists of the Dillon Magh Adhair Academy of Irish Dance. The DMA Academy of Irish Dance is one of the newest dance academies in Northern California (studio is in Walnut Creek) and is eager to share their art with their audience. $15. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www.villagetheatreshows.com or (925) 314-3460. MANIA! August 20 6pm. MANIA! is California’s Premier Beatles Tribute Band, capturing the imagination of both old and young with their attention to detail: from authentic Beatle instruments and costumes to the way they move, sing and play. Taking the audience from the youthful energy of The Ed Sullivan Show through the majesty of Pepperland and into the final days of the Beatles
valleysentinel.com
onthe Abbey Road rooftop. Bring a blanket and lawn chairs to this family-friendly event and grab some great eats from the food trucks provided by Food Truck Mafia, or bring your own picnic dinner. Free. Oak Hill Park, 3005 Stone Valley Road, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3400 or visit www.danville.ca.gov. Artists’ Opening Reception In the Abstract Exhibit August 31 6-8pm. Experience both renowned and local artists and their reclaimed pieces of art at Danville’s Opening Reception. Exhibitions are free to the public and refreshments will be served! Stop by to view some masterpieces and discuss with artists on their work! Village Theater and Art Gallery, 233 Front St., Danville. Call (925)-314-3400 or visit www.danville.ca.gov. for more information. The Playboy of the Western World September 1 - 17 When a young man tells a wild story about killing his father, the Irish villagers are fascinated with the tale and elevate him to hero status. This satire caused riots when it first opened, and has met with laughter many times since, embodying the very essence of telling tales! Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or (925) 314-3400. Munch! Crunch! The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show September 1 - October 2 Straight from a critically acclaimed run in New York, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show comes to the San Francisco Bay Area, Friday, September 1, bringing to life in vibrant color Eric Carle’s beloved stories about sea horses, fireflies, and, of course, that lovable Lepidoptera himself. Featuring 75 puppets that seem to have popped right out of the pages of Carle’s beautifully illustrated books, The Very Hungry Caterpillar Show will be presented by the Bay Area Children’s Theatre (BACT) Recommended for
ages 3 and up. $26 adults, $24 seniors (65+), $20 children (age 2 – 14), $15 groups (minimum 15). Bay Area Children’s Theatre Center, 2055 Center Street, Berkeley. Information: www.bactheatre. org or call (510) 296-4433. Million Dollar Quartet September 1 - October 6 Memphis. 1956. Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Johnny Cash got together at Sun Records for the greatest jam session. Ever. Here is the hit Broadway Musical of that incredible night. $37 - $72. Center REPertory Company, Lasher Thater for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive in downtown Walnut Creek. Information / reservaytions visit CenterREP. org or call 925.943.SHOW (7469). Relics on Railroad September 4 9am - 3pm. The antiques and upcycle market by the Museum of San Ramon Valley returns for its 11th year. In collaboration with the Town of Danville and the Cottage Jewel, Relics on Railroad present eclectic collections, fabulous finds accompanied by live music and vendor booths. Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave, Danville. Information: cottagejewel. com/cms/events/relics-onrailroad-antiques-art-faireformerly-heartland-danville or 925-837-3750.
Wa l n u t C r e e k F i r s t Wednesdays September 6 and every first Wednesday through October 5:30pm. Walnut Creek F i rs t We d n e s d ays eve n t for all ages includes live entertainment, arts & crafts, treats & more! Bike Walnut Creek is sponsoring a free ‘bike valet’ so you can bike to the event and relax with your bike secured by a valet attendant. Event is free, but bring some money for dinner because the Food Truck Mafia food trucks will be there for your dining pleasure. Cypress Street in Downtown Walnut Creek. www.walnutcreekdowntown. com/event/3-walnut-creekfirst-wednesdays
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
valleysentinel.com
august 2017
Forget-me-not Danville September 7-10 4-8pm. Kick-off evening stroll: Shop, Dine, Explore, and Stroll. 30+ local businesses supporting the Alzheimer’s Fo u n d a t i o n . Ra f f f l e s, demonstrations, door prizes, gift certificates. Build a Healthy Community! Preschool Performance Series: Earthcapades Juggling & Unicycles September 8 10 a m . T h e To w n o f Danville is proud to continue
its performance series, making kids laugh, dance, and sing with unique top-level entertainers. Performances are 50 minutes long without intermission, and artists are subject to change. 233 Front St, Danville. Information: 925-314-3400
Women on the Home Front September 13 7 p m . A s c re e n i n g o f the National Park Service documentary about women who worked vital construction and manufacturing jobs while men were fighting overseas during World War II, featuring a talk by NPS Deputy Superintendent Sue Fritzke, from Rosie the Riveter/World War II Home Front National Historical Park in Richmond, CA. Free and open to the public, but space is limited Oak View Room, Walnut Creek
18th Annual Eugene O’Neill Festival
September 1st-30th Tickets available now at www.villagetheatreshows.com Preview talks by Director Eric Fraisher Hayes will take place on August 14, 7pm at the Danville Library August 17, 7pm at the Lafayette Library August 22, 1pm at Rossmoor, Walnut Creek, for residents and guests Performances: The Playboy of the Western World by John Millington Synge September 1 – 17 Village Theatre, Downtown Danville Cost: $30 Directed by Edward Nattenberg and Eric Fraisher Hayes A young man comes to town with a wild story about killing his father. Instead of condemning him, the people of the village are fascinated with the tale and elevate the young man to hero status, until the his “story” follows him to town. A Touch of the Poet by Eugene O’Neill September 16 - 30 Old Barn, Tao House Cost: $35 Directed by Eric Fraisher Hayes Once a year, Major Cornelius Melody dawns his old military uniform and revels in the glory of past battles. This year, fantasy and reality clash, as Melody faces the possibility that he is no longer the hero he once was. Boxed Dinners Boxed dinners will be available at all 8pm performances of A Touch of the Poet at the Old Barn. We will offer an early shuttle at 6pm for those ordering boxed dinners. Pre-order early – we have a limited supply! Cost: $25 Other Events: The Secrets of O’Neill’s Danville: A Walking Tour Saturday, September 9, 10am Cost: Free No reservations needed Join Beverly Lane, Former EONF President, for the walking tour, starting in Front Street Park, downtown Danville and ending at Camille Street, Alamo Parks and Plays: A Hike to Tao House Sunday, September 10, 9am Cost: Free Advanced registration is recommended by September 5. Join Trudy McMahon, Former EONF Board President, and Tom Leatherman, National Park Service Superintendent on a guided hike from Front Street Park in downtown Danville, through Alamo and up through our beautiful local parks to the Eugene O’Neill National Historic Site. There will also be participation from East Bay Regional Parks, Save Mount Diablo, Mount Diablo Interpretive Society, California State Parks and the Town of Danville as well as NPS and the Eugene O’Neill Foundation. For more information visit www.eugeneoneill.org
The Valley SenTinel
Library. 1644 N. Broadway, Walnut Creek. Visit www. wclibrary.org to register and reserve your space.
page 3
5th Annual Autos of Alamo Festival September 14 4-8pm. Presented at the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center, Alamo Improvement Association presents their 5th Annual Autos of Alamo Festival. Admission to this fun “block party” is free, but includes food, beverages, and live music. Come and view the variety of cars, from classics to antiques and hot rods to exotics! Downtown Alamo.
Live Happy Paper Crafts
Explore your creativity this summer with classes at Live Happy!
Scrapbook about those fun summer memories as well as make beautiful cards and journals. 355 Hartz Ave., Danville, Ca 94526 925 553-7418 livehappypapercrafts.com
page 4
The Valley Sentinel August 2017 Sponsored Content
Community Input We at The Valley Sentinel welcome comments and suggestions from the community at large. We love hearing from you! However, consideration is only given to those who provide their name, address and phone number. Two-way communication is essential for growth and understanding. Write us at P.O. Box 1309, Danville, 94526, email to drousset@valleysentinel.com, or call us at 925820-6047. Thank you! —Denise Rousset, Publisher
JRW CONSTRUCTION, INC. 381 Hartz Ave., Danville, Suite B phone 925.831.1615 fax 925.831.1643 lic. 694292
CUSTOM HOMES ADDITIONS REMODELS BATHROOM AND KITCHEN REMODELS TENANT IMPROVEMENTS COMMERCIAL RESIDENTIAL
Do you know what to do about back pain?
WE DO.
The Back Doctors are a network of CHIROPRACTORS, MEDICAL DOCTORS and other health care professionals all with one common goal, the effective treatment of your pain.
Don’t Ignore These warning signs of spinal misalignment • Recurring Headaches • Low Back and Leg Pain • Neck, Shoulder and Arm Pain • Pain Between Shoulders
• Muscle Spasms • Difficulty Sleeping • Numbness in Limbs • Dizziness/Ringing in Ears
OPEN 6 DAYS A WEEK FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE
Saturday and evening appointments available • Most insurance accepted • Workers compensation welcome
The Back Doctors A CHIROPRACTIC/MEDICAL NETWORK
Phillip Runco, D.C.
Call for appointment now! 685-0335
Cancer Survivorship By Tyler Kang, MD
More people are living with a cancer diagnosis each year, and they number in the tens of millions in the United States and worldwide. While most of our cancer treatment focuses on what happens before and during the therapy process, those who have completed cancer therapies have to deal with what happens after. The phase of cancer care management that is often lacking. One issue with regard to cancer survivorship is coordination of care between oncologists and primary care physicians. Given the rise in number of cancer survivors, it is increasingly beyond the capacity of cancer specialist to care for them. Therefore after several years of remission, care of cancer survivors are often being relinquished back to their primary care doctors. However, primary care providers often do not possess a complete understanding of their patients’ cancer treatment or the consequences and long term monitoring needs that cancer therapies entail. One mandate from the Institute of Medicine is for improvement of the BADGER from page 1
www. blueherongraphics.com
valleysentinel.com
increased catch rate of about 33%. Hunting in tandem raises the prey vulnerability, with both predators succeeding. Abandoned Badger burrows are important habitat that may be occupied by foxes, skunks, burrowing owls, California Tiger Salamanders, and Redlegged Frogs. Normally solitary carnivores, American badgers expand their territories during the breeding season as they disperse and seek out mates. Mating occurs in late summer and early fall, with some dominant males potentially breeding with several females. American Badgers experience delayed implantation of the fertilized egg, with pregnancies suspended until December, or as late as February. One to five young, typically three, are born from late March to early April in the nursery of their extensive burrow system. Badgers are altricial at birth, being born furred, blind, and helpless. At four to six weeks of age the young open their eyes. From late
coordination of care between cancer specialists and primary care providers. A key recommendation is for the creation of a “survivorship care plan” (SCP). SCPs include a summary of the cancer treatments one received along with follow-up care plans that would facilitate the transition of care and which will guide management and self-care for cancer survivors. SCPs should be disseminated to both patients and their primary care physicians. Other frequent issues that cancer survivors have to contend with is that of secondary cancers. Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy can affect normal tissues by causing DNA mismatch and transcription abnormalities in cellular replication. While the majority of these abnormalities can be detected and eliminated by immune surveillance, a small number of them can lead to mutations that ultimately develop secondary cancers. Therefore, cancer survivors need to work with their physicians to undergo routine cancer screening tests as recommended. A much less recognized long-term problem is that of metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is a set of factors that May through August, the juveniles erratically disperse as they seek out their own territories. One biotelemetry study of radiotransmittertagged American Badgers 40 years ago had an average annual home range of 2,100 acres. Another study in Utah scrub-steppe habitat estimated densities of one American Badger per square mile, with ten dens in active or recent use. One day I counted over 250 American Badger dens near the headwaters of Kaiser Creek in Las Trampas Regional Park about fifteen years ago. American Badgers reestablished their former range by crossing Highway 680 near Crow Canyon and dispersing to Las Trampas. Females mature and breed a t a ye a r o f a g e, w h i l e males usually do not breed u n t i l t h e i r s e c o n d ye a r. Large predators such as the mountain lion occasionally kill American Badgers. The average longevity in the wild is nine to ten years, with the record being fourteen. One captive lived fifteen years and five months.
increase risks of cardiovascular diseases. Studies have shown t h a t p a t i e n t s w h o h ave undergone chemotherapy have at least a doubling of metabolic syndrome. Individuals who already have medical problems (diabetes, obesity) or who have a family history of heart disease are probably at even higher risks. It is therefore important to emphasize lifestyle modifications including dieting and exercise to help reduce development of cardiovascular problems as a part of the survivorship care plan. As cancer treatments improve and we have increasing numbers of patients who survive their disease, patients along with their physicians should remain mindful that the treatments themselves may have long term consequences that should not be lightly forgotten. Cancer care should continue beyond mere surveillance for cancer recurrence, and only with judicious management of the patient’s mental and physical well being will we truly be able to help patients past the shadow cast by a cancer diagnosis. D r. Ka n g i s a b o a rd 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 Overdevelopment of American Badger habitat h a s re s u l t e d i n h a b i t a t fragmentation, reduced range, decreased prey, and has forced Badgers into contact with humans as they forage between habitat fragments. Roadkilled Badgers are frequently encountered in eastern Contra Costa County, particularly along Vasco Road, as Badgers disperse or travel as they forage. Direct observations in Sonoma County, documenting habitat and American Badger sightings and foraging, reflect various ranges within the fragmented habitat areas from less than one half mile to approximately four miles. Within these areas, the availability of prey and a fresh water source are key factors for the preferred habitat areas and ability to survive. The California Department of Fish and Wildlife lists the American Badger as a California species of special concern. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Please visit his website at www. dochale.com.
valleysentinel.com August 2017
The Valley Sentinel
Sponsored Content
Healing Shoulder/Rotator Cuff Injuries By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC
The Rotator Cuff muscles (four muscles in total) are the primary support structures for the shoulder. Therefore, eve n m i n o r d ys f u n c t i o n 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 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.
Alamo News Update By Steve Mick
A Quick Guide to the Contra Costa Tree Ordinance
The County has a number of rules and requirements regarding trees. These include tree removal permits, heritage tree protections and protected trees. Details of the county tree ordinance are available on the County website. However, the ordinance is regrettably difficult to find there. There are two paths to the ordinance:
1. http://contracostacoca.elaws.us/code/orco_title8_ div816 The above website is through www.eLaws.us which provides online access to Laws, Regulations, Cases, Code of Ordinances and Lawyers, covering the range of Federal, States, Counties and cities. 2. https://library.municode. com/ca/contra_costa_county/ The link above will take you to the top level of the County Code Website. Once there, select “Title 8 - Zoning” and then select “Division 816 – Trees.” Now that you have read the fascinating and absorbing county tree ordinance, we can look at a few of the details: In many cases, a tree removal permit will be required before you take any action. Among other definitions, “Tree Removal” means the destruction of any tree by cutting, girdling, interfering with the water supply or applying harmful chemicals. The following are the County’s requirements for securing a tree removal permit: Registered heritage trees, trees that provide land stability, are of a protected species or size, or provide visual screening/and or privacy are subject to tree removal permits. Each tree removal permit is subject to individual consideration and approved or denied on a case
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. 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
by case basis by the County Planning Division. Some factors used to determine tree removal approval include hazardous situations, number of trees on a property, damage to existing structures, and reasonable development. Prior to removing any tree on your property, you are advised to contact the Planning Division at (925) 6747205 to verify your tree does not require a removal permit.
Parking Changes in Alamo Plaza
Representatives of DonahueSchriber, the owners of Alamo Plaza, presented the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council with a new parking layout for the Plaza. Of special interest is the reconfiguration of the parking spaces in front of Safeway and adjacent stores. Currently, these parking spaces are angled-in. The new configuration will be straight-in parking. This will net an additional six spaces for the Plaza according to the Donahue-Schriber reps. Plans also include putting a new surface throughout the Plaza and then re-striping all the parking spaces. The projected date for completing these tasks is in the September time frame. Steve Mick is a long-time Alamo resident and is active in a number of community organizations. Among them are the Community Foundation of Alamo, the Exchange Club and the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council. You can reach Steve at steve@alamore.org.
reduce inflammation and heal tissue simultaneously. During Laser Therapy, the infrared laser light interacts with 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. S e c o n d : C o r re c t t h e S h o u l d e r a n d Po s t u r a l Mechanics Long-term pain relief of shoulder injuries involves rehabilitation of the shoulder, neck, and thoracic spine. Shoulder rehabilitation is
page 5
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.
HANDYMAN SERVICES
Serving the Bay Area for 29 years Specialist in • Plumbing • Minor Electrical Windows • Doors • Wall Repair Floors – Tile and Natural Stone Big or Small, we do it all!
(925) 548-4202
page 6
The valley Sentinel
August 2017
valleysentinel.com
Concord Hills Regional Park By Beverly Lane, President, East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors
The process of creating a new, world-class regional park at the former Concord Naval Weapons Station is moving along, with input at several public meetings, and preparation of an environmental impact report now under way. The former Naval Weapons Station closed in 2005. In partnership with the city of Concord, East Bay Regional Park District is preparing a long-term management plan for the 2,516 acres that will comprise the new parkland. Most of the property will remain in open space, with a primary focus of conservation and natural resource management. Recreation and park facilities will be developed on the remaining acreage, in part using already existing structures that were originally part of the weapons station. Proposed uses include trails, picnic areas, a hikein group campsite, a backcountry campsite, a native plant nursery, a park operations center for the rangers, and a four-acre visitor center complex where the history of the station will be displayed. The federal Department of Fish and Wildlife recently issued an “environmental opinion,” a document necessary for transfer of the property from the U.S. Navy to Concord and the Park District. Essentially the opinion defines what areas will be protected and restored, and where recreation and public access is appropriate. With the biologic opinion in hand, the Navy can now finalize its environmental
impact statement, and circulate it for public comment, which will take place sometime within the next several months. Then the Navy can begin the land conveyance process. The District plans to bring the plans for the new park to the Park District Board by next summer. A Memorandum of Understanding needs to be completed with the city of Concord as well. Keep tuned – we do appreciate the public’s patience during this complicated process. This will be a wonderful open space park addition for Concord and Contra Costa County. Fo r m o r e d e t a i l e d information about the planning process for Concord Hills Regional Park, visit www. ebparks.org/cnws. * * *
obsidian and other stones into spear points, arrowheads and drills. The sessions are informal. You can drop in at any time. Young children may watch the process; anyone 16 years or older will be welcome to give it a try. If you want to do so, bring leather gloves, long pants, close-toed shoes and protective eye wear in case of flying stone chips. Coyote Hills is located at the end of Patterson Ranch Road off Paseo Padre Parkway. There’s a parking fee of $5 per vehicle; the knap-in is free of charge. For information, call 888-327-2757, ext. 3220. If you’d rather go on a hike, consider a Wednesday Walk. Wednesday Walks are free, naturalist-led hikes that explore various regional parks; everyone is welcome.
Photo by Stephen Joseph
August brings lots of summer programs to the regional parks. One of the more unusual is a “knap-in” at Coyote Hills Regional Park in Fremont. This has nothing to do with sleep. It’s a two-day clinic on the ancient skill of stone tool making. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday, Aug. 26 and 27, naturalists Kristina Parkison, Francis Mendoza and their friends will be at the park visitor center to show and tell how our remote ancestors worldwide transformed chert,
There’s a Wednesday Walk starting at 9:30 a.m. on Aug. 30 at Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park. This one is a somewhat strenuous climb to explore the park’s fruit and olive growing history. It’s about five miles total. Meet at the park’s Foothill staging area. It’s on Foothill Road about a mile south of Castlewood Drive off Interstate 680 in Pleasanton. For information, call 888-327-2757, ext. 3282.
Photo by Stephen Joseph
Photo by Stephen Joseph
East Bay Regional Park District Board Approves E-Bike Pilot Program On Wednesday, July 5, 2017, the East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors voted unanimously to implement a one year E-Bike Pilot Program on three regional trails in the Park District. The program will last one year through July 2018 and includes plans to conduct outreach on the specific trails affected to make sure users are informed about the program and share the trails with their fellow users appropriate. The outreach effort will include gathering information about users’ views, perceptions and experiences. Park District employees will be performing user counts, monitoring usage, and conducting surveys on the trails covered by the pilot program. The pilot program applies to three Park District trails and only covers Class 1 & 2 electric motor-assisted E-Bikes. All existing regional trail rules, including the current 15 mph speed limit, will remain in full effect during the pilot program. Class 1 & 2 E-bikes includes bikes with fully operable pedals and electric motor of less than 750 watts. The three trails authorized by the pilot program are the Contra Costa Canal Regional Trail in Contra Costa County, the Alameda Creek Trail in Alameda County and the Iron Horse Trail running through both Contra Costa and Alameda Counties. The Park District has an active “Green Transportation” network of paved trails that connects users to transit, school and work sites, and
the District was recently awarded $10 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation to expand these trail connections. There has already been an increase in bicycle commuting via our trails and E-Bike users will likely continue the trend, which will help reduce traffic congestion on roadways, advance green transportation modes, and improve access for those with physical limitations. E-bikes are not just used by commuters, however. Many seniors and individuals with disabilities are opting for a bicycle that can do the pedaling when they can’t. These types of bikes provide new mobility opportunities to people who need extra assistance. In 2015 the Governor signed Assembly Bill 1096 modernizing electric bike regulations for trails on state parks and authorized local jurisdictions to update their rules for allowing E-bikes on their own local trails. In developing the pilot program the Park District engaged community stakeholders and user groups to obtain feedback and input. The final proposal approved by the board was endorsed by the Park District’s Park Advisory Committee. The East Bay Regional Park District is a system of beautiful public parks and trails in Alameda and Contra Costa counties east of San Francisco Bay, established in 1934. The system comprises 120,000 acres in 65 parks including over1,250 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and nature learning.
valleysentinel.com August 2017
EBRP Board Takes Action to Support California’s National Monuments The East Bay Regional Pa r k D i s t r i c t B o a r d o f Directors took action to support California’s national monuments. The Board voted unanimously to adopt a resolution outlining their support for protected national monuments and urging President Trump to honor all designated national monuments. O n A p r i l 2 6 , 2 01 7 , P re s i d e n t Tr u m p i s s u e d an Executive Order calling for a review of all national monuments designated since 1996 which are over 100,000 acres. The executive order applies to six California monuments: Berryessa Snow Mountain (Napa, Solano and Yolo counties), Giant Sequoia in the southern Sierra, Carrizo Plain in southern San Joaquin Valley, San Gabriel Mountains northeast of Los Angeles and two desert monuments Sand to Snow and Mojave Trails. “A m e r i c a ’s p ro t e c t e d federal public lands and national monuments belong t o a l l A m e r i c a n s, ” s a i d E a s t B ay Re g i o n a l Pa r k District General Manager Robert Doyle. “The East Bay Regional Park District calls on the President to honor and protect the integrity of
all national monuments, as have been designated by U.S. Presidents since 1906.” T h e A n t i q u i t i e s Ac t of 1906 authorizes U.S. Presidents to designate as national monuments any historic landmarks, historic and prehistoric structures and other objects of historic or scientific interest that are located on land owned or controlled by the federal government. Twenty-two such monuments have been designated in California. “Our nation has a tradition of protecting public lands for the benefit of all Americans,” said Doyle. “California’s designated national monuments help define who we are as Californians and as a nation, and help protect these public lands for future generations.” National monuments and other federal protected public lands also benefit tourism and economic development – supporting thousands of jobs across California and the country. In California alone, outdoor recreation generates $85 billion in consumer spending annually and supports over 730,000 jobs.
Park District Completes Major Project at Point Pinole T h e Pa r k D i s t r i c t completed and dedicated two huge and very lengthy, complex projects at Point Pinole Regional Shoreline in Richmond in April. The Atlas Road Bridge provides a new main entrance and staging area to the park. The completion of the new bridge is part of a multi-phase project that will eventually include new picnic areas, a new playground and the route to a new interpretive center for the park. It also connects to the San Francisco Bay Trail. The bridge construction involved working with the Union Pacific Railroad to ensure safety for the project while working over the active rail corridor. Meanwhile at the same park, the newly renamed D o t s o n Fa m i l y M a r s h boasts an extensive habitat restoration and public access project. The 150-acre, $14 million habitat restoration and public access project was funded by more than 10 agencies, including the U.S. Environmental Protection
Agency, along with EBRPD through local bond Measures CC and WW. The project is the culmination of the community’s 50-year advocacy to reclaim public access to the shoreline. As the Park District plans ahead for sea level rise, habitats and tidal wetlands such as these will help protect shoreline communities. The total investment at Point Pinole is over $46 million, including $20.3 million to acquire both Dotson Family Marsh and Atlas Road Bridge properties; $14 million for the restoration project, and $11.7 million for the new entrance at Atlas Road Bridge. Together they represent the largest park investment in EBRPD history. Learn more and plan your Point Pinole visit at ebparks.org; www.ebparks. org/ Asset s/Feat ures/RI N/ Jul-Aug-RIN-2017.pdf; www. ebparks.org/about/news/ atlas-dotson-recap; or www. ebparks.org/about/news/ urban-park-investmentrichmond
The valley Sentinel
page 7
EBRP Board Takes Action to Support Paris Climate Accord “ C l i m a t e c h a n g e District provides the first line By EBRPD Public Affairs
On Wednesday, July 5, 2017, the East Bay Regional Pa r k D i s t r i c t B o a r d o f Directors voted unanimously to adopt a resolution in support of the Paris Accord – the historic global agreement reached by 195 countries t o re d u c i n g g re e n h o u s e gas emissions and limiting the rise in average global temperatures. “The Board wanted to make it clear that climate change is not an issue of ‘if’ or ‘when’ for the Park District,” said East Bay Regional Park District General Manager Robert Doyle. “We are impacted by climate change now, by erosion, by sea level rising, by fires, by drought, and by other extreme weather events.” T h e re i s w i d e s p re a d scientific consensus that climate change is occurring and is caused by human activity, especially the use of fossil fuels that create greenhouse gases. It has been widely recognized by governments, businesses, and academic leaders as a threat to our natural world, economy, health and quality of life.
is happening now to our regional parks and 55 miles of shoreline,” said Doyle. “We have to address this now or taxpayers will be paying more in the long run.” “Withdrawal from the Paris Accord would undermine the global effort to confront climate change, one of the greatest challenges facing our planet. The consequences of inaction may be irreversible and will affect all regions around the world,” added Doyle. The East Bay Regional Park District’s 2013 Master Plan calls on the Park District to monitor and prepare for the effects of a changing climate to ensure the community’s natural, cultural and scenic resources are protected for future generations. The Park District’s efforts include amongst operational practices in adaptation and mitigation, considering climate change in all policies, and contributing as a national leader in climate smart practices for the management of public parklands and land use planning in the wildlands and urban interface. With over 55 miles of Bay and Delta shoreline, the
of defense against sea level rise for millions of people in the East San Francisco Bay region. To that end, the District has developed restoration strategies – such as the Dotson Family Marsh wetlands restoration and shoreline access project in Richmond – that help address the impacts of sea level rise by providing a buffer for homes and public facilities near the shoreline. The 150-acre Dotson Family Marsh project cost $20 million and was funded in part by the EPA. In response to the President’s intent to withdraw from the accord, a number of local governments have adopted resolutions in support of the Paris agreement. Given the Park District’s increased focus on the impacts of climate change to parklands and the Bay Area, it was appropriate for the Park District to adopt a resolution in support. The EBRPD Legislative Committee previously considered the issues and recommended the Board of Directors to adopt a resolution in support of the Paris Climate Accord. To learn more about the Park District’s Climate Smart Initiative, visit EBParks.org/ ClimateSmart.
Advanced Laser & Skin Care Center Cosmetic & Medical Dermatology Specializing in: Micro-Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing Smartlipo Liquid Facelift PDO Nova Thread Lift Ultherapy Providers: Michael J. Tomcik, M.D. Shiva Seyedabadi, R.N.
Enhance Your Image and Defy Age! Schedule Today! 925-743-1488 AdvAnced LAser 101 Park Place, Suite 101 San Ramon, CA 94583 www.SanRamonDerm.com
Michael J. Tomcik, MD
skin cAre center
Board Certified Dermatologist Over 35 years experience
Medical Group, iNc.
www.SanRamonDerm.com
101 Park Place San Ramon
925-743-1488
Introducing Ultherapy • Only FDA approved, non-surgical procedure that focuses ultra sound to stimulate the growth of new collagen • Lifts and tightens the skin on neck, chin, and brow • NO downtime • Takes about an hour
Be kind to the environment – please recycle this newspaper
Kids & Teens – Back to School page 8
The Valley SenTinel
august 2017
10 Tips to ease back to school anxiety by Michele Borboa, MS
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 stressed-out children and
Did you know that anxiety issues are the most common m e n t a l h e a l t h d i s o rd e rs in children? There are an estimated 18 million children and teens who suffer from anxiety. The National Institute of Mental Health reports
PORTEOUS PORTEOUS PORTEOUS PORTEOUS FAMILY DENTISTRY FAMILY DENTISTRY FAMILY DENTISTRY FAMILY DENTISTRY Larry LarryPorteous PorteousD.D.S. D.D.S.++Linda LindaPorteous PorteousR.D.H. R.D.H.
Larry Porteous, Linda R.D.H. Porteous, R.D.H. Larry Porteous D.D.S. +D.D.S. Linda + Porteous
“Let Our Family Be Family Dentist” OurBe Family BeYour Your Family Dentist” Our Family Be Your Family Dentist” “Let“Let Our“Let Family Your Family Dentist” WeWeare arecelebrating celebrating2929years years
50% OFF
We are 29 in years 50% OFF We arecelebrating celebrating 30 yearsArea. in in practice 50% OFF Teeth Whitening practice inthe theBay Bay Area. 50% OFF in practiceininin the Bay Area. Teeth Whitening practice the Bay Area. Our Teeth Whitening Teeth Whitening Our practice isisdedicated for new patients (reg $450) Our practice dedicated forfor new patients (reg(reg $450) Our practice is dedicated to treating for new patients (reg $450) new patients $450) practice istodedicated totreating treatingand andpreventing preventing to treating and preventing and preventing dental indiseases in a (925) 736-9000 dental diseases a friendly, dental (925) 736-9000 dental diseases in a diseases friendly, in a friendly, 925-736-9000 (925) friendly, relaxed atmosphere. is 736-9000 relaxed ItItisisIt our relaxedatmosphere. our relaxed atmosphere. Itatmosphere. is our 3840 Blackhawk Road our philosophy to give each person philosophy to give each person 3840 Blackhawk Road 3840 Blackhawk Road 3840 Road to give each personBlackhawk philosophy tophilosophy give each person Suite 110 the same respect, care and concern the same respect, care and Suite 110 Suite 110 Suite 110 the same respect, care respect, and the same care and concern thatwant we would wantasto Danville Danville that wethat would want Danville concern we would Danville concern thatto wetoreceive would want to Across(Across Blackhawkfrom Rd. as a patient. patients. Across Blackhawk Rd. receive as areceive patient. Across Blackhawk Rd. receive as a patient. Independently Rated Highest in Quality
fromDraeger’s Draeger’s Market NINTH from Draeger’s Market Market) from Draeger’s CONSECUTIVEMarket YEAR
Independently Rated Highest in Quality Independently Rated Highest in Quality
IfIf you have an have aching tooth,tooth, want Ifanyou an aching you have tooth, If aching you have an aching tooth, to maintain good dental wantyour toyour maintain your good want to maintain good want to maintain your good health, are interested in interested improving dental are dental health, are health, interested dental health, are interested your smilein your or just have questions improving your smile or justor in improving smile or just in improving your smile or just have or concerns, concerns, please call our office. We have questions orquestions concerns, have questions or concerns, call ourlook office. We look pleaseforward call please our office. We look to meeting you. please call our office. We look
NINTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR NINTH CONSECUTIVE YEAR
forward to meeting forward you. to meeting you.
forward to meeting you.
Providing Full Service Dentistry the Entire Providing Full Service Dentistry For The for Entire Family Providing Full Service Dentistry For The EntireFamily Family
Providing Full Service Dentistry For The Entire Family
WWW.pOrteOusFAMILYDeNtIstrY.coM www.PorteousFamilyDentistry.com WWW.pOrteOusFAMILYDeNtIstrY.coM
WWW.pOrteOusFAMILYDeNtIstrY.coM
t e e n s, p e d i a t r i c a n x i e t y 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 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
Be kind to the environment – please recycle this newspaper
valleysentinel.com kids and parents dealing with the full spectrum of anxiety disorders. 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 . Ke e p yo u r f a m i l y 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 c e l e b ra t i o n s, va c a t i o n s, 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, 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. 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 c h i l d re n t o g o f ro m t h e freedom of doing what they want in the summer to a very structured and social s c h e d u l e w h e n t h e n ew school year begins,” says Martin. “Leading up to and throughout the fi rst 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 . Re s p e c t p e rs o n a l 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 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 See ANXIETY page 9
valleysentinel.com August 2017
The valley Sentinel
page 9
2017 Danville HOOTS Connie Mack Team World Series Finalist The 2017 Danville HOOTS Connie Mack Baseball Team finished as the World Series National Championship Finalist on Sunday August 6 in Farmington, New Mexico. The HOOTS won the Western Region Championship a week earlier in Southern California going undefeated with a record of 5-0 to represent the West at the World Series and a chance to win a National Championship. This was the 4th trip to the World Series by the HOOTS. Their last time at the Connie Mack National Championship was 2014 where they finished in the Final Four in a loss to D-Bat Gallegos from Texas who went on to win the National title. The 2017 World Series Connie Mack National Championship for the first time included pool play with 17 teams representing all regions of the United States and Puerto Rico. The HOOTS were in one of the most difficult pools that included 2 previous National Champions, East Cobb Yankees from Georgia and D-Bat Baseball from Texas. The 4th team in their pool was another outstanding program from the Texas Stix. “I honestly never thought we could get out of our pool. In the first game against East Cobb we were not competitive. But PROSPECTING from page 1
will feature the “upcycled goods” of clever craftsmen. Beyond simply recycling and repurposing used materials, upcycling involves a creative transformation of outdated objects to increase t h e i r v a l u e o r q u a l i t y. Meet the crafters of jewel encrusted mirrors, carved wood sculptures, soldered metal wall pieces, button jewelry, BoHo clothing, junk journals and re-configured furniture. But wait there is more……garden art, vintage collectibles, Depression glass, toys, bird houses, crowns, farm salvage, lamps, dolls, books, WWII memorabilia, p a i n t i n g s, p h o t o g ra p hy, planted succulents, linens, tools, silver, Orientalia and old ironstone. The family friendly outdoor market will keep the parking lot behind the Museum buzzing from 9am until 3pm. If your quest for knowledge is as strong as your urge to shop, then step inside the Baggage Room of the Museum Depot and listen to some of the
our guys know who to battle and the next day we defeated the Texas Stix 5-2 and later that night we played D Bat and won 6-5 on a walk off in the bottom of the 7th inning when our center fielder Ryan Cole drove a ball down the left field line to score the tying and winning run.” The East Cobb Yankees and the HOOTS advanced from their pool to bracket competition. The HOOTS started to play aggressively a n d c o n f i d e n t l y a s t h ey defeated the East Cobb team who were the 2016 National Champions by scoring 15 runs. With two more wins over D-Bat Elite and the Florida Legends the HOOTS remained undefeated as did the Midland Redskins, another former National Champion. The HOOTS’ Mason Legate pitched against Midland in the loss 3-2 with the tying run and winning run on base in the 7th inning. Midland went on later on Saturday night to eliminate East Cobb to set up the National Championship between them and the HOOTS. Coach Johns said, “I felt all along while watching Midland that they would be the team to beat. They have a lot of depth on the mound and talent thru their entire line up. “ Midland powered past the HOOTS 11-0 in the National Championship game to win
their 15th Connie Mack title Zack Patterson and Sam in team history. Midland Dinnerman. Luke O’Brien pitcher Ben Dragani was also was awarded the Golden named CMWS Most Valuable Glove award. Congratulations Player. This ended the HOOTS journey to a National Title to everyone on the 2017 after 9 days of baseball in HOOTS Connie Mack team, pool and bracket competition. p l aye rs a n d c o a c h e s f o r “We started with a mistake in the first inning and those ANXIETY are costly at this level of from page 8 competition and trying to win calm to your child. “When a National Championship. a child feels anxious, their We won the American Legion sensitivity is heightened, National Championship in especially to the touch,” 2000 but this group of players Martin adds. “Be mindful have advanced further than of how clothes feel when any other Connie Mack team shopping for back-to-school we have had since then and outfits.” She recommends in Northern California I don’t soft, tagless items that will think any team has done what help your child feel more these guys have done.” comfortable. The HOOTS were not 10. Consider behavioral only the National Champion therapy World Series Runner Up, the Martin emphasizes that team was also awarded the back to school is usually the prestigious “Sportsmanship most difficult time for a child Award.” American Amateur with anxiety issues. However, B a s e b a l l C o n g r e s s K i m be concerned if a few weeks S t r a d l i n g c o m m e n t e d pass and your child’s anxiety a t t h e c e re m o ny o n t h e h a s n ’ t d e c re a s e d o r h a s Sportmanship Award as “rare gotten worse. “If your child and highly regarded by AABC has not adapted well to the and the Board of Directors as it shows leadership and conduct beyond the score of the game.” Several HOOTS Players were selected on the 2017 Connie Mack All Tournament Team. Pitcher Mason Legate, Ed Antenucci, Owner/Broker Outfielder Nick Santiago, BRE #00876592 Infielders Luke O’Brien,
Antiques Appraisal Clinic evaluations. Veteran experts and researcher Joseph Silver (Civil War, Gold Rush, early C a l i f o r n i a , Au t o g r a p h s , Timepieces), Anita Venezia (Estate Liquidator, Antiques Generalist), Barbara Britt (early American glass) and hopefully Lynne Peterson (Silver, Antiques) and Grant LeDoux (War memorabilia) will entertain and enlighten us from 11am to 2pm. For a verbal approximation of value and heirloom identification a donation of $10 per item is requested by the Museum fundraising committee. Plan ahead to bring one of your own family heirlooms or find a mysterious antique relic during the antiques show. Visit the Concierge Booth to find a complimentary map of the historical downtown Danville area and get directions to the Handworks Sunday monthly merchant market parking lot sale. Speaking of sales, grab an invitation to the 17th Anniversary Sale of Cottage Jewel, Danville’s award-winning antiques and gifting boutique. The Eugene
O’Neill Foundation will also (925) 351-8686United California Brokers(925) 876-9710 United California BrokersSuite have a volunteer available to kantenu615@aol.com dale@dalebridges.com 1801 Oakland Boulevard, 210 1801 Oakland Boulevard, Suite 210 share the schedule of plays Walnut Creek, CA 94596 United California Brokers Walnut Creek, CA 94596 and special events for the 1801 Oakland Blvd., Suite 210 in Residential, Commercial and ICA nvestment Services O’Neill Festival season all Specializing Creek, 94596Real Estate Specializing in Residential, CWalnut ommercial and Investment Real Estate Services September. Pick up a free Specializing in Residential, 1989, we offer experience, knowledge and trust. We have an understanding of #LiveLocallyDanville sticker Founded in Commercial Investment Real Estate your needs ae nd bjectives and and will work hard to find the right property or hyServices ou, or atn o suell your Founded i n 1 989, w ooffer experience, knowledge and trust. Wfe ave nderstanding of as well as a Forget-me-not existing property. We strive to build a partnership with you – now and for the future. Please Founded in 1989, we offer experience, knowledge andproperty trust. Wefor have an or to sell your your n eeds a nd o bjectives a nd w ill w ork h ard t o f ind t he r ight y ou, us and trust that we will handle all of your real estate needs in a professional manner. Danville strolling map to help contact understanding of your needs and objectives and will work hard to find the existing property. We strive to build a partnership with you – now and for the future. Please you rediscover over 30 shops right property for you, or to sell your existing property. We strive to build contact u s a nd t rust that wwith e will handle ll ofor f your real ePlease state ncontact eeds in professional manner. a partnership you – now aand the future. usaand trust and restaurants offering that we will handle all of your real estate needs in a professional manner. specials and fundraising for the Alzheimer’s Foundation. Back by popular demand, the Stoney Ridge Bluegrass A special buy in Roseville – over 29+ acres bordering Riverside Avenue and Band of merry men will Vernon Street OFFERED AT $4.1 Million (Sellers will carry back a portion) provide live entertainment “The East Bay’s Most Trusted Real Estate Company” “Let’s Do Business” for dancing and clapping A special buy in Roseville – over 29+ acres bordering Riverside Avenue and Vernon Street Avenue and w h i l e y o u e x p l o r e A tshpecial e buy in Roseville – over 29+ acres bordering Riverside Offered at $4.1 Million (Sellers will carry back a portion) eclectic vendor booths. Other Vernon Street OFFERED AT $4.1 Million (Sellers will carry back a portion) highlights include a lemonade “Lets Do Business” stand, a few vintage cars for “The East Bay’s Most Trusted Real Estate Company” “Let’s Do Business” “The East Bay’s Most Trusted Real Estate Company” photo opportunities and a tarot reader to guide you into the future. Thank you to the Museum’s event sponsors: Diablo Publications, Town of Danville, KKIQ Radio and Cottage Jewel. Celebrate our For information, please contact rich community history and Denise Rousset at 925-820-6047 #LiveLocally in Danville this coming Labor Day, September or email info@valleysentinel.com. 4th from 9-3 during the Visit us at ValleySentinel.com Relics on Railroad Antiques & Upcycle Market!
(925) 3A51-‐8686 Ed ntenucci, O wner/Broker Ed Antenucci BRE #00876592 kantenu615@aol.com Owner/Broker (925) 351-‐8686 BRE #00876592 kantenu615@aol.com
an outstanding season to advance to the Connie Mack National Championship Finals. “No dream is out of reach and every player should dream to be the best”
new school year, seek out a counseling professional who specializes in pediatric anxiety disorders,” the c h i l d re n ’s h e a l t h ex p e r t 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-toease-back-to-school-anxiety.
Dale Bridges, Realtor BRE #01176228 (925) Dale Bridges, Realtor 876-‐9710 Dale Bridges BRE #01176228 dale@dalebridges.com Realtor (925) 876-‐9710
BRE #01176228 dale@dalebridges.com
Advertise in The Valley Sentinel!
Senior Living page 10
The valley Sentinel
August 2017
valleysentinel.com
How Medicare covers home health services By Greg Dill
A couple of years ago, my father, well into his 70s, finally bought himself a highperformance automobile. The kids and grandkids had all grown up, so there was no need for a larger car. And heck, he had waited a long time to drive something fun. All was fine with the new car until my mother broke her hip, had surgery, and needed extensive outpatient physical and occupational therapy. Getting into and out of a sporty car isn’t easy for someone using a walker and cane. So I got a phone call asking what could be done. (Actually, I think he was angling for my new minivan, whose video screens would give him something to do during mom’s therapy sessions.) But I told him he didn’t need to take mom to a clinic or hospital. As a Medicare beneficiary, she could receive most of the therapy in her own home.
Medicare covers a variety of heath care services that you can get in the comfort and privacy of your home. These include intermittent skilled nursing care, physical therapy, speech-language p a t h o l o g y s e r v i c e s, a n d occupational therapy. Such services used to be available only at a hospital or doctor’s office. But they’re just as effective, more convenient, and usually less expensive when you get them in your home. To be eligible for home health services, you must be under a doctor’s care and receive services under a plan of care established and reviewed regularly by a physician. He or she also needs to certify that you need one or more home health services. In addition, you must be homebound and have a doctor’s certification to that effect. Being homebound means leaving your home isn’t recommended because of your condition, or your condition keeps you from leaving without using a cane, wheelchair or walker; special transportation; or getting help from another person.
Also, you must get your services from a Medicareapproved home health agency. If you meet these criteria, Medicare pays for covered home health services for as long as you’re eligible and your doctor certifies that you need them. Fo r d u r a b l e m e d i c a l equipment (like a walker or wheelchair), you pay 20 percent of the Medicareapproved amount. Skilled nursing services are covered when they’re g i ve n o n a p a r t - t i m e o r intermittent basis. In order for Medicare to cover such care, it must be necessary and ordered by your doctor for your specific condition. Medicare does not cover fulltime nursing care. Skilled nursing services are given by either a registered nurse or a licensed practical nurse under an RN’s supervision. Nurses provide direct care and teach you and your caregivers about your care. Examples of skilled nursing care include: giving IV drugs, shots, or tube feedings; c h a n g i n g d re s s i n g s ; a n d teaching about prescription drugs or diabetes care.
Before your home health care begins, the home health agency should tell you how much of your bill Medicare will pay. The agency should also tell you if any items or services they give you aren’t covered by Medicare, and how much you’ll have to pay for them. This should be explained by both talking with you and in writing. The agency should give you a notice called the Home Health Advance Beneficiary Notice before giving you services and supplies that Medicare doesn’t cover. What isn’t covered? Some examples: • 24-hour-a-day care at home; • Meals delivered to your home; • Homemaker services like shopping, cleaning, and laundry (when this is the only care you need, and when these services aren’t related to your plan of care); • Personal care given by home health aides like bathing, dressing, and using the bathroom (when this is the only care you need). If you get your Medicare benefits through a Medicare Advantage or other Medicare health plan (not Original
Medicare), check your plan’s membership materials. Contact the plan for details about how the plan provides your Medicare-covered home health benefits. If your doctor decides you need home health care, you can choose from among the Medicare-certified agencies in your area. (However, Medicare Advantage or other Medicare plans may require that you get services only from agencies they contract with.) One good way to look for a home health agency is by using Medicare’s “Home Health Compare” web tool, at www. medicare.gov/HHCompare. It lets you compare agencies by the types of services they offer and the quality of care they provide. Fo r m o re d e t a i l s o n M e d i c a re ’s h o m e h e a l t h benefit, please read our booklet, “Medicare and Home Health Care.” It’s online at https://www.medicare.gov/ Pubs/pdf/10969-Medicareand-Home-Health-Care.pdf. Greg Dill is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Territories. You can always get answers to your Medicare questions by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227).
Upcoming events at the Danville Senior Center – September / October 2017 Live Well Age Smart Friday, September 29, 9:00 am – 12:00 pm Location: Danville Senior Center This event will feature valuable resources, health screenings, and information promoting a healthy lifestyle through nutrition, exercise and preventative care. The Live Well, Age Smart event will open with a keynote speaker at the Vets Hall. The event will continue at the Senior Center with a vendor fair and health screenings. Light refreshments will be provided. Pre-registration is not required. Fee: Free Hawaiian Luau Thursday, October 12, 12:00 pm – 1:30 pm Location: Danville Senior Center Food Sponsor: Sunrise Senior Living Join us for a fun Hawaiian Luau celebration without leaving Danville! Listen to Hawaiian music while enjoying
an old fashioned traditional hot lunch. Maybe join in for a hula lesson! Fees $10(R) $12(NR) Dinner and Dance: Around the World in Song Wednesday, October, 25, 6:30pm – 8:00pm Location: Danville Senior Center Join us for a fun evening of music and dance with Jeff Wessman from A Swingin’ Affair! Enjoy dinner followed by music and dancing from around the world. Everyone is welcome whether you are a dancer or someone who just enjoys an evening of music. If you are not able to take a trip around the world yourself than this is the next best thing! Jeff will be taking us all on a trip around the world with music! Fees: $12(R) $14(NR) (RSVP by October 20) Senior Issues Subcommittee… Mark your calendar! Do you have an idea for a new activity or an improved procedure for Senior Services?
Attend the scheduled quarterly meetings to be heard by the decision makers. Next meeting: October 25, 2017 Time: 4:00 pm Location: Danville Senior Center, Meeting Room September / October Trips Oakland Zoo and Lunch Thursday, Sept 7, 9:00 am- 3:00 pm The Oakland Zoo is a trip enjoyed by all ages! The zoo is a 100-acre park located in the hills of southeastern Oakland. Most of its animals are kept in relatively “natural” habitats. The zoo is nationally known for its outstanding elephant exhibit and has been praised for allowing the elephants to roam freely. Enjoy free time at the zoo, visiting all your favorite animals. Be one of the first to ride on the new, largest urban gondola system in Northern California for lunch and some of the best views in the entire Bay Area. The gondola cars float over large areas of modern exhibits, finally coming
to a stop at the new Visitor Center. The exhibit will feature many new animals, all currently or historically from California. Fees: $52(R) $64(N) Fleet Week Saturday, October 7, 11:45 am – 6:00 pm The Belle is a San Francisco landmark and the crown jewel of the San Francisco Bay that evokes the city’s turn-of-thecentury Barbary Coast energy. The 292-foot sternwheeler features Art Nouveau style on all three enclosed levels, plus a spacious sun deck and three full wrap-around decks. There is no better vantage point to see the Fleet Week Air Show than from directly under the planes – sailing on the iconic S.F Belle. Indulge in a hosted buffet lunch as you sip on free-flowing champagne and enjoy background music, then step onto the outer deck to watch the jaw-dropping precision of the famous San Francisco Fleet Air Show! Transportation is included. You will receive a trip checklist one week prior
to departure. Fees: $162(R) $192(NR) Activity Level: 2 Gilroy Gardens Saturday, October 21, 8:00 am – 4:00 pm Spend the day in the beautiful park-like setting of the Gilroy Gardens. Your day will start with a docent-led tour through the park. The park sits on 536 acres and includes six botanical gardens for you to enjoy. The most well-known garden features 24 Circus Trees that were grown and shaped with multiple trunks, basket-weave patterns and hearts by the late Axel Erlandson. These are very interesting and probably the most unusual trees that you have ever seen. Following the tour, you are free to stroll through the park, grab a bite to eat, visit one of many horticulture education videos, take a train ride through the park, or just sit and enjoy the tranquility of this unusual theme park. Fees: $70 (R) 84 (NR) Activity Level 3
valleysentinel.com August 2017
4 Threats to a Secure Retirement By Robert Cucchiaro
Of all of the financial planning issues we help c l i e n t s w i t h , by f a r t h e most common question I receive is “am I on track for a comfortable retirement?” Now that’s not usually how it’s phrased, in fact it’s usually something like “will I have to work forever?” or “my daily commute to work is killing me, got any ideas?” The good news is, more often than not we can create a financial game plan for the person and tell them exactly when they can retire, and how much income they can expect each month in retirement. That being said, there are a few mistakes we see pop up time and time again. Here they are, as well as what to do if you find yourself facing this situation: 1. Home Equity loans have been used to mask over-spending - Just the other day I met with a prospective client who bought her house for $200K thirty years ago. Today the house is worth $1.2M and she owes $600K on it. How is this possible you ask? Home equity loans and cash-out refinancing have allowed her to spend money over and above her actual earned income. The bad news is that the house now needs a ton of work, and if she were to sell it she would have to pay taxes on the gains plus commissions to the broker. The solution, stop using your house as a piggy bank. Home
investor performance. Studies show that most mutual fund owners tend to underperform their own funds. The reasons for this include investors tend to chase what’s hot, and tend to buy high and sell low. Just like you wouldn’t try to repair the brakes on your car unless you were trained properly, don’t try to manage your retirement nest egg without the help, skill, and care of an investment professional. I realize that turning over your accounts to someone else to manage is a scary proposition, so do your due diligence, ask friends and other advisors (CPA, attorney) who they recommend, interview 3-4 advisors, and really try to understand their process before making a decision to hire them. Also be sure to pick someone that uses a 3rd party custodian (like Charles Schwab or Fidelity) so that you know your money is being held by a large trustworthy firm and your Advisor is being tasked with selecting the investments within that account. Whether you are already retired or 10 years away, Summit Wealth & Retirement is here to help you with investment management, retirement planning, and tax & financial planning. Our team includes two CFPs, a CFA and an MBA and we are conveniently located in Danville. Call us to make a complimentary appointment at 925-927-1900 or visit o u r w e b s i t e a t w w w. summitwealthandretirement. com
Town Expands Social Media Channels
Instagram added to the list of Danville Social Media As social media continues to grow and become a larger part of government communications, the Town of Danville has announced the creation of two new a c c o u n t s o n I n s t a g ra m . The @TownofDanvilleCA account will feature events, programs, projects and other ‘slice of life’ posts. The @ DanvilleParksCA account will focus primarily on parks, recreation, and arts in Danville. Administrative Services Director Nat Rojanasathira said the decision to add Instagram to the Town’s social media communications came about through the recent community branding
and marketing efforts. “Danville’s Marketing Plan highlighted that Instagram is inspirational and aspirational. It’s today’s postcard.” Rojanasathira a d d e d , “ D a n v i l l e ’s n ew Instagram accounts will allow us to showcase Danville’s heritage, small-town atmosphere, recreational opportunities, foodie culture, family-friendly lifestyle, and emerging arts scene. Being on Instagram will highlight what at it means to live locally.” Instagram joins a growing list of social media platforms used by the Danville town government. The Town’s presence on
page 11
Sponsored Content
Sponsored Content
equity loans are fine for maintenance & repairs, or as a backup emergency fund. 2. Catch-Up contributions aren’t being made to 4 01 K / 4 03 B p l a n s – T h e government knows most people are “sprinting towards retirement” – meaning they are saving a lot later in their career to make-up for a lack of savings early on. As a result, folks over age 50 can contribute an additional $6K per year into their company retirement plans. Between the $24K annual pre-tax savings plus any company match available, even someone at age 50 can sock away enough money to retire by 65 or 66 and live comfortably. 3 . T h e k i d s a re s t i l l counting on mom & dad for financial support – One of the questions we ask prospective n ew c l i e n t s i s, “ d o yo u currently support your adult children or your parents, and/or do you expect to in the future?” All too often we hear that yes, they are paying for their 30something year old’s apartment, health insurance, car insurance, etc. My advice is always to explain to kids that mom & dad aren’t on track for a comfortable retirement and then set a specific deadline by which the financial support will stop. 4 . Yo u r i n v e s t m e n t portfolio isn’t performing – If you read my articles (and if you want more, be sure to subscribe to my blog – www. summitwealthandretirement. com), you know that I often mention the gap between investment performance and
The valley Sentinel
Facebook (www.facebook. c o m / D a n v i l l e C A ) g rows with over 5,000 followers. The Town of Danville keeps the public informed about community alerts and events on its 3,500 follower Twitter feed (@DanvilleINFO), keeps residents informed on Nextdoor, used by over 60% of Danville households, and sends out emergency alerts through the use of NIXLE. For more information about the Town’s social media efforts, contact Administrative Services Director Nat Rojanasathira at (925) 3143328 or nrojanasathira@ danville.ca.gov.
WOW! My First River Cruise By Kelly Neumeister
Whether you think you’re the “cruising type” or not, consider a river cruise- an amazing travel option that gives you plenty of bang for your buck as well as the ease and convenience of unpacking once yet seeing multiple towns and sites on your vacation. Airfares to Europe rival domestic fares in the U.S. so now is the time to river cruise! This isn’t as much about the historic and picturesque sites along the Danube River but more about the joy of river cruising, specifically in our case, with AmaWaterways. Fro m s t a r t t o f i n i s h , AmaWaterways provided u n d e rs t a t e d l u x u r y a n d comfort. Three wonderful meals plus ample regional s n a c k s a n d t re a t s we re provided daily along with complimentary beer and wine with lunch and dinner. You receive top class dining, service and hospitality from the European cruise staff w i t h o u t t h e p re t e n t i o u s stuffiness you may experience on other cruises. Your cabin is equipped with all the amenities of a firstclass hotel room including free WI-FI. With smaller passenger numbers (168 on the AmaCerto), you get to know your staff from the kitchen helpers and chefs to the captain. No attention to detail is spared and customer satisfaction is of utmost importance!
Our itinerary began with 3 nights in charming, historic Prague before taking a comfortable bus (provided by AmaWaterways) on a 3 hour scenic drive to Vilshofen in Bavaria to meet the ship. Before setting sail later in the evening, we were treated to Bavarian music, dancing and a mini-Oktoberfest put on by the locals of Vilshofen! For 7 days we cruised the Danube stopping, at Eastern European Capitals including Linz and the wine region of the Austrian Wa c h a u Va l l ey, V i e n n a , and Bratislava in Slovakia. AmaWaterways provides, free of charge, wonderful tour options in every port including bike journeys, walking tours at all different paces as well as longer half day tours into the countryside. Having already been to Salzburg while in Vienna, we chose a visit to the stunning Austrian Lake District…. all of these options included in the price of the cruise! During the trip, there were only 2 optional tours at a cost- a visit to Schonbrunn Palace and an evening Mozart concert at the Opera House in Vienna! Since your riverboat can dock in the heart of your ports of call, you can join AmaWaterways tours or just explore on your own. Your Cruise Director is available all day and into the evening to help you plan your time in port. All good things must come to an end and our journey concluded in our final port of Budapest, Hungary. The cherry on top occurred after dinner, on deck of our ship, cruising along the Danube to take in the beautiful architecture of Buda and Pest illuminated after dar…breathtaking and a lifelong memory! Kelly Neumeister is a Travel Consultant with Alamo World Travel, specializing in tours, cruises and customized vacations worldwide. You can reach Kelly at 925-837-8742 or info@alamoworld.com
Vintage Jewelry Gifts for All Occasions
Bridal Jewelry and Brooch Bouquet Kits www.etsy.com/shop/vintagejewelryetal (Local seller)
Enter Code BHGVS15 at checkout for 15% off your purchase
be kind to the environment please recycle this newspaper
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
August
•
August
•
August
•
August
•
August
•
August
•
August
For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com COMMUNITY EVENTS
Now Through Sept 4 Aimee Golant: 5 Stories Thursdays, Sundays, 10 am - 4 pm The Jewish Heritage Museum at The Reutlinger Community is proud to present Aimee Golant: 5 Stories. The exhibition highlights the metal artist’s journey working with her Holocaust survivor grandfather’s tools to create mezuzahs for two space shuttles and crafting the Crowns of the Women’s Torah Project. Jewish Heritage Museum 4000, Camino Tassajara, Danville, 94506, For more information call 925-964-2062, email Betty Rothaus at betty.rothaus@gmail. com or visit the website at www.rcjl.org/the-reutlinger/jewishheritage-museum. September 6 Walnut Creek First Wednesdays 5:30pm - 8:30pm Walnut Creek Downtown hosts Walnut Creek First Wednesdays Street Festival each month, April – October, for all ages! Festivities include live entertainment, arts & crafts, shopping, treats & more! Ride your bike to the event: Bike Walnut Creek is sponsoring a free bike valet for your wheels! Park your bike securely with the valet attendant as you relax & enjoy the event. Enjoy FREE parking on Wednesday nights after 5 p.m.! Participating Garages: N. Locust Garage - 1625 Locust St. / S. Locust Garage - 1350 Locust St. N. Broadway Garage - 1390 N. Broadway.BART and FREE Downtown Trolley Come join us for fun activities for the whole family! August 23 Community Foundation of Alamo Mixer Come and learn about the businesses and people in Alamo at 180-D Alamo Plaza (near the Post Office). Bring your business cards and get ready to spend some time with the members of your community fom 5:30pm to 7pm! The event includes refreshments, raffles, and fun! August 25 Coffee & Cocoa with the Cops Come and enjoy a cup of coffee with officers fom the Danville Police Department! New police chief Allan Shields calls the program a great opportunity to sitdown and chat with residents in a friendly atmosphere. Look forward to this event at 7am at Christy’s Donuts (436 Diablo Road). September 9 Trail Mixer Whether you’re an avid outdoorsman or a casual hiker, come explore the trails of your backyard. Each month, we will visit different regional parks in the East Bay, spending the day hiking, staying fit, and making new friends! The Trail Mixer spends 8:30pm to 12pm exploring the parks of the East Bay. September 11 September 11 Event In remembrance of 9/11, come join the rest of the community at Oak Hill Park at 10am to 12pm. The event will feature Fire and Police Honor Guard, locla members, veterans of the armed services, and more tributes. September 26 Coffee & Cocoa with the Cops Come and enjoy a cup of coffee with officers fom the Danville Police Department! New police chief Allan Shields calls the program a great opportunity to sitdown and chat with residents in a friendly atmosphere. Look forward to this event at 5pm at Sideboard (90 Railroad Avenue). ONGOING
Special Services for Children with Cancer and Their Families Cancer Support Community offers short-term counseling (12 to 20 sessions) at no cost to children with cancer and their families. Counseling can be for the family, siblings, and/or kids coping with cancer. Counseling is provided by doctoral interns or post doctoral fellows under the supervision of our clinical psychologists. To request this service, please call us at 925-933-0107 and ask to speak with our program director, Margaret Stauffer, LMFT. Hope Hospice seeking volunteers Hope Hospice is currently looking for individuals who are interested in volunteering to assist hospice patients and their families. In keeping with Hope Hospice’s goal to make sure patients can live their lives to the fullest and with dignity, volunteers provide a variety of services that help enhance the quality of care of
our patients’ lives. Volunteer opportunities include; Home Care; Cosmetology; Healing Touch; Reiki; Massage Therapy; Vocalists. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer, contact Jill Biggs, RN, at 925-829-8770. Volunteers Needed: Read to Preschoolers Volunteers are needed at childcare centers in Concord, Pittsburg, and West County. The Contra Costa County Library will supply books and resources. For more information, please contact Maureen Kilmurray at 925-927-3288. Alamo Farmer’s Market Every Sunday, Year round 9am-2pm, rain or shine. Fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, nuts, local honey, live music, delicious varieties of hummus with fresh pita and pita chips. Located in the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center, at Stone Valley Road and Danville Blvd., with convenient parking.
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: 10:30am-12pm. Free workshops and informational sessions that will benefit you. They will give you free access to coffee, knowledge and a better understanding of important issues. Information: 925-973-3250. Trips Trip Desk is open Tuesdays from 10am-1pm. Sign up for trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway. Information: 925-973-3250.
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.)
Wednesday Morning Hikes (time and location varies) Join the San Ramon Trailblazers if you are interested in meeting new people, enjoying the outdoors, having fun and getting in shape. The group meets once a week at the north end of Osage Park, off of Brookside Dr. This is an adults only group; pets are not permitted on hikes. To find out the exact meeting location and to get on the email list, please call the Senior Center at or email trailblazer88@comcast.net.
San Ramon Farmers Market Every Saturday & Thursday Year-round Buy fresh, seasonal produce directly from local farmers at San Ramon Farmers Market. Connect with your community while shopping at a festive gathering place with live music! www. SanRamonFarmersMarket.org. Bishop Ranch 3, 2641 Camino Ramon, San Ramon.
Page Turners Senior Book Group Third Tuesday of the month 1:30pm. Drop in–all are welcome! Copies of this month’s book are on reserve for you at the Dougherty Station Library Front Desk. Book group meets at Alcosta Senior and Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd. Information: Carol Yuke, Adult Services Librarian. 925-973-2850.
Canine Companions for Independence Puppy Class Each Saturday 10-11am. Become a puppy raiser! The East Bay Miracles Chapter invites you to help train puppies to become assistant dogs for children and adults with disabilities. Make sure to check out their online calendar before heading off to volunteer. Athenian High School, 2100 Mt. Diablo Scenic Blvd., Danville. Information: 925-838-3213, cci.org/eastbaychapter
BUSINESS
Forest Home Farms Historic Park & Glass House Museum–open for Fun on the Farm Every Saturday 11am-2pm. Enjoy tours of the Glass House Museum, the farm and its history, interactive exhibits including the tractor museum, the beautiful grounds and free activities. Visit the Welcome Center and purchase old-fashioned toys and gifts at the Gift Shoppe. Tours are $5 per person, or $8 for both tours on the same day. 19953 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3284 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov. Saturday without Reservations at the Tao House Every Saturday 10am, 12pm, and 2pm. Come explore this National Historic Site in Danville. Catch the shuttle at the bus stop in front of the Museum of the San Ramon Valley, 205 Railroad Ave. www. EugeneOneill.org SENIORS
Danville Seniors Unless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3490 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors. 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. The Danville Area Senior Hikes (DASH) is open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at 8:45am at Osage Park, 816 Brookside Drive, Danville and returns about 1pm. Most hikes are not strenuous, but gradients are involved due to the local terrain. Distances are usually in the 4-5 mile range, and the pace is moderate, with stops to view scenery, wildlife and to talk about location history when appropriate. Information: 925314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/ Senior_Hiking.
BNI Every Thursday Noon-1:30pm. We are actively looking for new members to refer business to in the trades. We need a plumber, electrician, handyman and cleaning service but are also looking for other professions like property manager, event planner and many others. Vic Stewart’s Restaurant at 850 S Broadway in Walnut Creek. 925-330-8275 or david@staff.webquarry.com BBR-Partners for Success 1st and 3rd Tuesdays, 12-1pm. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Partners for Success meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive, Danville. www.danvilleareachamber.com BBR-Sunrise Alliance 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 7:30-8:30am. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Sunrise Alliance meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive. Danville. www.danvilleareachamber.com CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS
Danville Veteran Service Organizations 8am-11am Every Saturday at Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley – in Danville – the VSOs jointly host a “Veterans Coffee Social” from 8AM until 11AM… Bring a friend or fellow Veteran and show them the museum - share some social time. Drop In - no reservations – all Veterans welcome… stop for a few minutes - or stay for hours! WW II Vet & Senior Docent Art Gaskns has pastries waiting for you! Please share information about our VMB /SRV Military Museum & Library open daily M-F from 9-3 and it’s free! Tri-Valley Fly Fishers Visitors welcome to monthly meetings featuring guest speakers who share their knowledge of the sport. Meetings are held at 7:00 PM on the first Thursday of every month, September through June at the Livermore-Pleasanton Rod and Gun Club, 4000 Dagnino Road, Livermore, CA 94551. For more information please contact: Roger Perry, President of Tri-Valley Fly Fishers by email at President@Tri-valleyflyfishers/org
Please email your calendar events to the Sentinel at Info@valleysentinel.com by 5pm on the 15th of the month preceding publication month. Inclusion in the calendar pages is at the sole discretion of Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.
valleysentinel.com Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Advances equity for women and girls through advocacy, education, philanthropy and research. AAUW membership is open to all graduates of accredited four year colleges or universities and those holding an Associate Degree or equivalent. Prospective members are welcome and may contact Soni at 286-1737 for details. Visit daw-ca.aauw.net for meeting dates. Cancer workshops and support groups-Ongoing Most are free. Cancer Support Community, 3276 McNutt Avenue, Walnut Creek. Information / reservations call 925-933-0107 or visit www.cancersupportcommunity.net. Fibro? CFIDS? Chronic Pain? If these are familiar to you, call about the San Ramon Valley support group for people who need support, information, classes and friendship from people who know what it’s like. We like to laugh while getting well. Call 925-837-0510. Hope Hospice Grief Support Groups–Ongoing Hope Hospice provides support to help you understand and manage grief in a way that is healthy and appropriate. Our Grief Support Center is available to all community members at minimal or no cost. Information: visit www.HopeHospice.com or call 925-829-8770. Hospice of the East Bay Support groups and workshops for adults, children and teens experiencing grief after the death of a loved one. Classes will be offered at Hospice’s Administrative Offices: 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill and the Tony La Russa’s Animal Rescue Foundation: 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Pre-registration is required for all groups and classes, except our drop-in group. To register, please call Hospice of the East Bay: (925) 887-5681. Information: www.hospiceeastbay.org Wind ‘n Sea Sailing Club Sailing training classes take place at members’ homes. Information: Call Jan at 925-837-3381. Forewomen Golf Association provides opportunities to play golf with other women who share the love of the game and also want to give back to our community through our charity program. FWGA is an associate club of the Northern California Golf Association (NCGA), not affiliated with any particular golf course. We offer five opportunities to play per week at East Bay courses. All levels welcome. For more information contact Cheryl Ramirez at communications@forewomengolf.org. Overcome inappropriate compulsive sexual behavior Avenue nonprofit ministry helps men overcome inappropriate compulsive sexual behavior and helps women heal from the betrayal of their relationship. Confidential groups for men and for women. No charge / donations accepted. Call (877-326-7000). www. AvenueResource.com. RECURRING
Mondays: The Walnut Creek Garden Club Meets the second Monday of each month. Meeting begins at 9:30am with community and socializing from 10:30-11:00am. You do not need to be a gardener to join the club. The Gardens at Heather Farm, 1540 Marchbanks Road, Walnut Creek. Information: californiagardenclubs.com/ content/walnut-creek-garden-club or mslittle44@gmail.com
august 2017 Danville Rotary 12pm. Meets every Monday. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. Information: danvillerotary.org. San Ramon Alzheimer Support Group 7-9pm. Meets the second Monday of each month, except on holidays. Sponsored by the Alzheimer Association. People who know or are caregivers of Alzheimer victims can get information on how to help them through this difficult time in life. San Ramon Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Information: 925973-3250. Sons In Retirement (Las Trampas Branch) Monthly Luncheon 11am. Meets the third Monday of each month, except for May and December. Make new friends, participate in fun activities. Make $15 luncheon reservations by calling 925-322-1160 by the preceding Wednesday. Walnut Creek Elks Lodge, 1475 Creekside Dr, Walnut Creek. Information: visit www. Branch116.org. Tuesdays: Danville am Toastmasters 7-8:30am. Want to improve your speaking and presentation skills? Toastmasters can help! Meets every Tuesday in downtown Danville. www.4143.toastmastersclubs.org Danville/Sycamore Valley Rotary 7am. Meets every Tuesday morning. Crow Canyon Country Club, Danville. Information: dsvrotary.com. San Ramon Valley Geneological Society 10am. Meets every third Tuesday at the LDS Church, 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. http://srvgensoc.org Diablo View Toastmasters 8:15-9:15am. Meets every Tuesday. CMG Mortgage, 4th Floor Conference Room, 3160 Crow Canyon Rd., San Ramon. Information: 4160.toastmastersclubs.org. Walnut Creek Rotary 12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: rotarywc.org. ARF Pet Loss Support Group 5:30-7pm. Meets second Tuesday of every month. Register with Vicki at 925-887-5681 or vickis@hospiceeastbay.org. ARF, 2890 Mitchell Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: arf.net. Divorced and Separated Workshop 7- 8:30pm. A new workshop series for divorced and separated people is being held on at St. Joan of Arc Parish, 2601 San Ramon Valley Blvd., San Ramon. Contact: Sue at smc9@ sbcglobal.net. 925 -819-1809. Prostate Cancer Group 7:30–9pm. Meets 2nd Tuesday of the month. Drop-in prostate cancer group for men and their loved ones. San Ramon Regional Medical Center, South Building, West Day Room. 6001 Norris Canyon Road, San Ramon. Information: 925.933.0107 or www.twc-bayarea.org/community-programs.html. Wednesdays: Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost.net Hospice of the East Bay Drop-in Bereavement Support 4:30-6pm, 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of every month. 3470 Buskirk Avenue; Pleasant Hill. Information: 925-8875681 or visit www.hospiceeastbay. org.
The Valley SenTinel
Hope Hospice Drop-In Grief Support Groups–Ongoing First and third Wednesdays from 4:30 to 6:00p.m. at Hope Hospice, 6377 Clark Avenue, Dublin. “There is no single correct way to grieve,” says Joe Lumello, Hope Hospice provides support to help you understand and manage grief in a way that is healthy and appropriate. Hope’s Grief Support Services manager. Participants may attend as frequently as needed or desired. It is offered free of charge although donations are accepted. Please contact Grief Support Services at 925-829-8770 for additional information.
Thursdays: Danville Alamo Garden Club Meets on the 2nd Thursday of the months between September and June starting at 9:15 am at the Alamo Women’s Club 1401 Danville Blvd, Alamo. If you have any questions, contact Susan at membershipvp@dagc.us or go to our website: www.dagc.us.
Sons in Retirement (San Ramon Valley chapter) Monthly Luncheon 10:30am; Social Hour, 11:35am meeting and lunch. Meets the 3rd Wed. of each month. Reservations, please email us at www.info@sir128.com by Friday prior to the luncheon. Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Rd., San Ramon.
San Ramon Valley Newcomers 11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest speaker at a local Tri-Valley restaurant. New and long-time adult residents are welcome. Reservations/ information: susansgotbling@sbcglobal.net or www.srvnc.com.
Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Round Hill Country Club, 3169 Roundhill Road, Alamo. Info: alamorotary. org. Danville Toastmasters Club #1785 7:30-9pm. Meets every Wednesday. Room W204 at Diablo Valley College,1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon. Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com. San Ramon Valley Rotary 7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Blackhawk Country Club, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Info: sanramonvalleyrotary. com. Danville Lions Club 7pm. Meets the first Wednesday at the Alamo Grill, 3160 Danville Blvd, Alamo, CA 94507. Visitors Welcome. Information: Truman Howard 925-7872565 truman.howard@gmail.com Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley 12pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month. Sign-in and social time begins at 11:30. Guests are welcome with lunch reservations. Faz Restaurant, 600 Hartz Ave., Danville. RSVP 925-275-2412. Info: www.srvexchangeclub.org Walnut Creek Host Lion’s Club 12:15pm. Meets the 2nd, 3rd, and 4th Wednesdays of each month. Black Bear Diner, 700 Bancroft Road, Walnut Creek. Information: walnutcreeklions. org. Blue Star Moms 7-9pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month to participate in service activities supporting sons/daughters serving in the military. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.org. Diablo Valley Quilters 7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests. Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters.com. Veterans of Foreign Wars 7pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925-362-9806 or vfwpost75.org. Diablo Singles Dance Club 7-10pm. Meets the last Wednesday of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $8, Guests $12. All welcome. 111N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek.
Danville Women’s Club 11am – 1pm. Meets third Thursdays of each month. Socializing begins at 11 a.m., with lunch following at 11:30, and a guest speaker at noon. 11-1, 242 Linda Mesa. Call Karen at 925-8319237 for reservation.
Rotary Club of San Ramon 11:45am. Meets every Thursday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. Information: sanramonrotary.org. San Ramon Valley Kiwanis Club Thursday at Noon. Black Bear Diner, 807 Camino Ramon, Danville. www. kiwanis-srv.org Clutterers Anonymous 7-8pm. Meets the 2nd and 4th Thursday of every month. St. Luke’s Lutheran Church Room 3, 2 491 San Miguel Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: 925-736-8627. Diablo Valley Lions Club 7:30pm. Meets the 1st, 3rd, and 4th Thursday of every month. 1400 Montego Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: diablovalleyca.lionwap.org. Fridays: Transitions-“Navigating Life’s Turning Points Together” 9-11:30am. Our group now has a new name, which has been changed from TENS to Transitions. Our mission is to encourage and support women from empty nest, to aging parents and everything in between. Community Presbyterian Church, Room 116, 222 W. El Pintado Rd., Danville. Information: Contact Donna Hill at hillmom3@ comcast.net Saturdays: Diablo Region of the Porsche Club of America 7:30-9am. Meets every Saturday. Buttercup Bar and Grill, 660 Ygnacio Valley Road, Walnut Creek. Information: diablo-pca.org. Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am-12pm. Meets every 3rd Saturday.
page 13
Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at 925254-8349 or jgriehl@gmail.com. Free. All are welcome. Information: Howard Zalkin at 939-4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 933-6357. Danville Veteran Service Organizations 8am-11am Every Saturday at Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley – in Danville – the VSOs jointly host a “Veterans Coffee Social” from 8AM until 11AM… Bring a friend or fellow Veteran and show them the museum - share some social time. Drop In - no reservations – all Veterans welcome… stop for a few minutes - or stay for hours! WW II Vet & Senior Docent Art Gaskins has pastries waiting for you! Please share information about our VMB /SRV Military Museum & Library open daily M-F from 9-3 and it’ Sundays: Cars n Coffee: First Sunday of Every Month 8-10am. On the first Sunday of every month, automotive enthusiasts gather in the parking lots of the Blackhawk Museum to share their vehicles and admire the other fabulous classic cars, hot rods, sports cars, exotics and anything else with wheels and a motor that promotes the car enthusiast hobby. Cars & Coffee is a year round event, rain or shine. The Museum opens at 9am on Cars & Coffee Sundays and there is a Docent-led tour at 2pm. Participating car owners receive two complimentary tickets to the Museum courtesy of our sponsors. Blackhawk Museum, 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville. www. blackhawkmuseum.org
Help Wanted Sr. Appian Developer: Master’s Software Engineer II: MS in C.S., Comp. App., or rltd. & 2 yrs. rltd. exp. CV to: Bank of the West, careers@bankofthewest.com. Position in San Ramon, CA. QA Engineer II: MSc in C.S., Engineering or rltd. & 24 months of rltd. exp. CV to Bank of the West, careers@ bankofthewest.com. Job in San Ramon, CA. IT QA Analyst II: MSc in C.S., Information Technology or rltd. & 36 months of rltd. exp. CV to Bank of the West, careers@bankofthewest.com. Job in San Ramon, CA. Senior Sitecore Software Engineer: Bachelor’s in Electronic Engr., Comp. Sci., or rltd. & 5 yrs. rltd. exp. Bank of the West. Job in San Ramon, CA (may telecommute from w/in U.S.). CV to careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO.
Community News & Information Danville • Blackhawk Alamo • Diablo • San Ramon Publisher/Editor-Denise Rousset Advertising-Betty Overhoff Chief Financial Officer-Jeff Gummere Graphic Designer-Laurie Prindle Auto-David & Judy Colman Intern-Veronica Yoo, SRVHS
925-820-6047
542 San Ramon Valley Blvd., #A Danville, CA 94526
www.valleysentinel.com
page 14
The Valley SenTinel
AUTO
2017 Mazda MX-5 RF By David and Judy Colman
The new Mazda RF’s folding hardtop does Zero-toClosed in just 13 seconds. The MX-5 itself takes somewhat less time than that to complete the Zero-to-60 MPH run in just 7 seconds. No matter what performance parameter you examine with this Mazda, the operative word is quick. It transitions through corners with a quickness that would make any Porsche envious. And it does so at a stellar bargain base price of $32,620. That’s less than the options alone cost on many new Porsches. The RF designation refers to the fact that this new model offers more than just a disappearing hardtop. RF stands for “Retractable Fastback” and the look of the car with the top up will leave no doubt about the “Fastback” part of the name. From the side windows forward, the RF looks virtually identical to the standard convertible version of the MX-5. However, on the RF, Mazda designers have appended a pair of flying buttresses to the sides of the cockpit which fare
gracefully into the tops of the rear fenders. This substantial modification lends an unexpectedly exciting visual twist to the Miata’s well known profile. In RF form, designers have exchanged cuteness for sleekness. From both side profile and rear view the RF looks substantially better than any previous Miata. In fact, first time viewers often fail to realize they are even looking at a revision of the world’s most popular roadster. We know that was our reaction when we saw an RF for the first time. To us, it recalls the caliber of design you once saw from Italian masters like Pininfarina, Bertone and Zagato. This Mazda looks so good it will transport you back to the classical Italian design period of the 1960s. The folding top not only improves the looks of the MX-5, it also adds a note of improved civility to your time in this car’s confined cockpit. With the top erect, the level of noise inside the cabin is less than you would experience in a top-up roadster. The RF allows you to enjoy all of the MX-5’s precision reflexes, pin point
March 2009 august 2017
handling, and driving joy while affording you better protection from the elements. Even with the top down, those fastback wings and rear window remain in place, affording you an extra measure of wind-free quiet. But there is a one substantial price to pay for those protective buttresses. They inhibit side and rear sight lines. No longer do you enjoy the unmitigated 360 degree field of vision provided by the top-down MX-5 convertible. In fact, that immoveable structure next to your head prevents you from seeing what’s right next to you when you want to make a simple lane change. In terms of added security, the erect hardtop is infinitely
RF’s 17 inch smoked pewter alloys came with top drawer Bridgestone S001 radials (205/45R17) that never so much as chirped during hard cornering. This Mazda is without question one of the
preferable to the protection of a cloth roof. No one is going to break into the RF without a power tool. In terms of handling dynamics, the added weight of the roof and its motor raising apparatus have had no appreciable effect. RF exhibits exactly the same breed of lightning reflexes that have long made the convertible Miata the benchmark sports car for handling. Our test
best handling cars available from any manufacturer today. Mazda likes to use a Japanese phrase in reference to the MX-5 that translates into English as “The rider and the horse are one.” The fact that our test sample was finished in Soul Red Metallic paint added to this mystique, since Mazda has chosen that same shade for its #55 IMSA Prototype racer which recently scored a
valleysentinel.com
podium finish at the 6 Hours of Watkins Glen. For those of you who have grown tired of the Miata’s long standing proportions and appearance, the RF offers a fresh take on this sports car icon. We acquainted ourselves with the exceptional subtleties of the new design by slowly washing our test MX-5. It provided a great opportunity to appreciate the subtle beauty of the car’s carefully integrated design. Mazda calls this design dynamic “Kodo” or the “Soul of Motion.” That explains why you will never see an unnecessary scoop, louver or crease appended to any Mazda. Consequently, the appearance of their vehicles always matches the purity of their design creed. 2017 MAZDA MX-5 RF ENGINE: Skyactive 2.0 liter inline 4, DOHC HORSEPOWER: 155hp TORQUE: 148lb.-ft. FUEL CONSUMPTION: 26MPG City/33 MPG Highway PRICE AS TESTED: $33,885 HYPES: Best Manual Stick Shift on the Market GRIPES: Impeded Sightlines STAR RATING: 10 Stars out of 10
Advertise in
For information, please contact Denise Rousset at
925-820-6047 or email info@valleysentinel.com Visit us at
ValleySentinel.com
Oops! Last month we neglected to credit our new intern, Veronica Yoo, for her excellent photographs of the July 4 parade in Danville. Sorry, Veronica. And thank you again!
valleysentinel.com
august 2017
The Valley SenTinel
I-680 Express Lanes Opening Soon By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
Yo u m a y h a v e b e e n wondering about what’s happening with the toll lanes and signs on I-680 that were constructed last fall. The signs are now displaying messages that read, “Coming Soon” or “Testing.” You won’t need to wait long to try them out. The Metropolitan Transportation Commission ( M TC ) a n d i t s p a r t n e rs have been working on improvements on I-680 and the new express lanes are expected to open next month. The goal of express lanes is to get more people, not just cars, where they need to go. MTC Express Lanes are carpool lanes that are free for carpools, buses,
motorcycles, and other vehicles. Solo motorists who choose to pay a toll may also use the express lanes. Bay Area transportation agencies are developing a 550-mile network of express lanes that will be completed by 2035. The lanes will operate Monday through Friday from 5:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. All-day operating hours encourage carpooling whenever there is congestion, which often happens outside the peak commute hours. During times when traffic is light, tolls will automatically adjust lower. The MTC will continuously monitor lane operations to ensure additional congestion is not created. The hours are consistent with neighboring lanes on I-680 and I-580 in Alameda County to limit driver confusion. All drivers must have Fastrak to use the lanes between 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. All vehicles, including carpools, will be required to have FasTrak to use the I-680 Contra Costa Express Lanes.
Carpools, buses, motorcycles and eligible clean air vehicles must use a FasTrak Flex toll tag set to “2” or “3+” to travel in the lanes tollfree. Solo drivers will pay to use the lanes with either a standard FasTrak toll tag, or a FasTrak Flex toll tag set to “1.” License plate recognition cameras will be used to enforce the FasTrak requirement. Express Lane drivers without a valid FasTrak account will receive a violation notice and be required to pay a $25 penalty and the cost of the toll. Express Lane drivers with a valid account will be tolled accordingly. The California Highway Pa t ro l w i l l a l s o e n f o rc e Express Lane rules. Beacons mounted over the Express Lane will light up to show officers which vehicles are traveling with their FasTrak Flex tag set in the 2 or 3+ position. This helps the CHP identify possible carpool occupancy violators. Express lane revenues will be used
in part to pay for additional CHP enforcement. Testing of the toll system will continue through its opening. The tests ensure that toll prices are properly displayed on electronic signs and that toll tags can be properly read under the tolling equipment. Motorists can expect to see test toll amounts and notification that testing is underway o n t h e e l e c t ro n i c s i g n s. All toll system signs are displayed on boards with large “Under Construction” stickers. While motorists will see prices on the signs, and may hear a beep on their FasTrak transponders, cars will not be tolled during the tests. Nighttime lane closures on I-680 will continue throughout the next month. Motorists traveling southbound south of Bollinger Canyon Road may also see some tree trimming. MTC is planning to prune five trees in the Caltrans right-of-way that are blocking the ability of roadside cameras to view the toll system signs. The
page 15
right shoulder will be coned off and drivers can expect to see trimming equipment for a few days in the non-commute hours. For more information, visit www.expresslanes.511. org or www.bayareafasttrak. 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 A Special Thanks to summer intern Chloe Chu who contributed to this article.
315 Cortsen Road in Pleasant Hill • • • •
Heritage classes for children School field trips Sustainable gardening classes Displays of items from the Pleasant Hill Historical Society • Meetings and events Rodgers Ranch is a Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District property and Pleasant Hill’s only historic site. We are a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501c3 organization
Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center in Pleasant Hill is creating a brick pathway in front of our 150 year old farmhouse. Cement your place in history with an engraved brick to honor or remember family or loved ones, or highlight a business or organization.
Barn Wood for Sale Call Chris at (925) 890-4482
Information and an order form for the brick(s) can be found at
www.RodgersRanch.org
For more information please contact us at 925-937-3677 or visit www.rodgersranch.org
Planning for a Change? Consigning your present home furnishings gives you: Exposure 7 days a week Safety • A Simple Solution Convenience
Good Riddance to Clutter and Storage Fees
DANVILLE
1901 Camino Ramon 925-866-6164
CAMPBELL 930 West Hamilton Ave. 408-871-8890
CORTE MADERA 801 Tamalpais Dr. 415-924-6691
SAN CARLOS 1123 Industrial Road 650-508-8317
Call us today! www.thehomeconsignmentcenter.com
DIABLO MOTORS
SALES • BROKERAGE • CONSIGNMENT • SERVICE • DETAIL
Hot Summer Deals
Life’s Too Short to Drive a Crummy Car!
“SUMMER BRAKE” Special Includes: Free Synthetic Oil Service (Value $145) with any complete brake job, front or rear.
$31,900 2015 Mercedes C300 Vin: 55SWF4KB1FU033421
$39,900
$37,900 2014 BMW 428i Convertible Vin: WBA3V7C55EP770897
2014 Mercedes E350 Cabriolet VIN: WDDKK5KF0EF244923
Good through 8-31-17
$299 CLEANING
Includes: -Interior and exterior cleaning -Clay bar and wax exterior -Detail engine compartment
$16,900 2014 Mini Cooper Countryman Vin: WMWZB3C59EWR40311
$29,900 2015 Jeep Wrangler Unltd Sport Vin: 1C4BJWDG3FL532382
$24,900 2016 BMW 328i Sedan Vin: WBA8E9G57GNT82208
Larger/Dirtier vehicles extra Good through 8-31-17
Call (925) 830-8747 for an appointment today!
$34,900
$20,900
2016 BMW 428i Convertible
2016 Toyota RAV4 XLE AWD
Vin: WBA3V7C55G5A25617
(925) 830-8747
Vin: 2T3RFREV5GW456922
$49,900 2016 RAM 2500 Laramie Diesel 4x4 Vin: 3C6UR5FL4GG252143
www.diablomotors.com
2067 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon