The Valley Sentinel_August 2021 by Sentinel Newspapers

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Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon

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Park Named After Thurgood Marshall Summer Harvest Activities Spiral Snake Craft Summer Stars in Dark Skies Hot-Weather Hiking Tips Plus many more fun activities for kids and families!

Trevor Fuhriman Cycles from Canada to Mexico for Breast Cancer Awareness One in eight women will develop breast cancer at some point in their lifetime, according to the American Cancer Society. Statistics also show that

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On August 19, Save Mt. Diablo presents “Sacred Mountains, Climate Change and Environment”. This will be a special Nature Heals and Inspires event with Edwin Bernbaum, acclaimed author and lecturer. His presentation is not to miss! See page 5 for details. Photo by Stephen Joseph. See his website for his Alamo gallery hours and location at www.stephenjosephphoto.gallery.

Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens) By James M. Hale

T h e ra s py, n a s a l , b u r r y “kabrick” call of the Ash-throated Flycatcher (Myiarchus cinerascens), is a familiar sound during late spring and early summer, particularly in riparian habitats, open woodlands, and oak savannahs throughout Contra Costa County. This species has become a familiar backyard bird in many areas, with suburbanization of many of our open spaces. Ashthroated Flycatchers are mediums i z e d m e m b e rs o f t h e Ty ra n t Flycatcher family, Tyrannidae. They are up to eight and a half inches long, and up to one and a half ounces in weight. Overall, they have grayishbrown plumage, with a pale yellow belly, and cinnamon edges on the primary feathers in the wing. Two whitish wing-bars accent the wing. The throat is whitish, and the face is ashy gray. The underside of the tail is russet or cinnamon with brownish gray borders. The sagittal

crest, or peaked crown on the top of the head, is diagnostic in Flycatchers. The Ash-throated Flycatcher was first described in 1851 by George Newbold Lawrence from a specimen collected in Texas. In 1859 Philip Lutley Sclater realized that the Mexican population and western North American birds were the same and corrected the taxonomy. The genus name of Myiarchus is from the Greek words muia, meaning “fly”, and arkos meaning “chief” or “ruler”. The specific epithet cinerascens is Latin for “ashen”. Two subspecies are recognized, with one non-migratory subspecies restricted to Mexico’s Baja California. This cavity-nesting species arrives later in spring from its wintering habitat in southwestern Arizona, southern California, and Mexico, as far

south as Honduras. Occasionally, some individuals have been known to wander as far as the east coast of North America. Like most perch hunters, Ashthroated Flycatchers spend a great deal of their time on low perches, sallying for insects, which they usually take from foliage, branches, and the ground. Spiders, bees, wasps, bugs, tree hoppers, stink bugs, moths, caterpillars, and flies, including larvae, are favorite prey. On occasion, they will take aerial insects in midair. Less frequently, they will consume fruit, berries, and even small reptiles and mammals which they kill by banging the prey on hard objects. Ash-throated Flycatchers are adapted to xeric habitats and do not need to drink water. They obtain their hydration from metabolic water in the food they eat.

This Month’s Special Section:

As secondary cavity nesters, Ash-throated Flycatchers rely on nest holes that are originally excavated or used by other species, such as woodpeckers, or naturally occurring cavities in tree snags or dead trees. Artificial cavities of all sorts are also used for nesting. Ashthroated Flycatchers may select nest cavities varying from less than ten feet up to over seventy

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August 2021

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Stay Cool In The Redwoods by Beverly Lane East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors

When the weather is scorching, a good place to escape the heat is the shady groves of Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park in the Oakland hills. Named in honor of Dr. Aurelia Henry Reinhardt, who was president of Mills College and one of East Bay Regional Park District’s original board members back in 1934, the park has an interesting history. In the mid-1800s, loggers cut down hundreds of old-growth redwoods in what is now the parkland, providing lumber for building construction throughout the Bay Area. The result was what one contemporary observer called a sea of stumps. Many of those trees were huge. One stump circle with a historic marker in adjacent Roberts Regional Recreation Area bears evidence that the

original two trees were distinct and visible from San Francisco Bay. Mariners used them as a reference point to avoid running into a dangerous navigational hazard on the bay – Blossom Rock. Second growth redwoods sprouted from the stumps, producing a new generation of forest giants, preserved and protected in the park’s 1,833 acres today.

San Leandro Creek drainage, which includes Redwood Creek running through the park. A historical marker is located alongside the creek, along with a fishway that enables trout to reach their upstream spawning grounds. Fishing is not allowed within the park. Park amenities include four reservable picnic sites for

Another history note: the naming of rainbow trout as a species was based on fish first observed in the

groups ranging in size from 50 to 150 people. There are also several group overnight camping areas within the park, available by reservation only. For information and reservations, call 888-3272757, option 2. There are also first-come, first-served picnic tables, and there’s a children’s play

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Roberts’ 87 acres include family and group picnic areas, a swimming pool, a baseball diamond (with a short right field), and a “barrier free” accessible children’s play area specifically designed so that children who use wheelchairs can interact and play with kids of all abilities. A plaque near the Blossom Rock tree site honors the 442nd Regimental Combat Team, an Army unit comprising Japanese-American volunteers who served with great distinction in World War II. Another feature at Roberts is the Redwood Bowmen Association archery range, which is open to the public. For more information on range hours and rules, call 510-4793054. And for more detailed information on both Redwood and Roberts, complete with park maps, visit East Bay Re g i o n a l Pa r k D i s t r i c t ’s website, www.ebparks.org.

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structure about a quarter-mile down the Stream Trail from the Canyon Meadow trailhead. You can hike, jog or horseback ride on nearly 40 miles of trails within Reinhardt Redwood Regional Park. Bicycling is also permissible, though with some restrictions. Bikes are not allowed on the narrow single-track trails or the upper end of the Stream Trail. The park’s main entrance i s o n Re d wo o d Ro a d i n Oakland, about two miles east of Skyline Boulevard. Another major parking lot and trailhead, often crowded on weekends, is at Skyline Gate, on Skyline Boulevard a short distance south of the intersection with Pinehurst Road. Roberts Recreation Area was named in honor of Tommy Roberts, who like Aurelia Reinhardt was a member of the park district’s first board of directors.

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In a measure that’s timely to say the least, the East Bay Regional Park District has received a direct appropriation of $13.5 million in the California state budget to fund wildfire prevention and fuel reduction needs in the East Bay hills. The appropriation was proposed by Senator Nancy Skinner of Berkeley, Senator Bob Wieckowski of Fremont, and Assemblywoman Rebecca Bauer-Kahan of Orinda. Ten million dollars will be used to remove dead and dying trees, a concerning development that has been detected especially in Anthony C h a b o t a n d Re i n h a rd t Redwood Regional Parks in Oakland, Miller-Knox Regional Shoreline in Richmond, and Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley. The remaining $3.5 million will be used to purchase equipment that will improve the district’s ability to fight fires, including the

replacement of the district’s aging helicopter, which is used to drop water on fires burning in inaccessible terrain. “We are so thankful for the support and leadership of our legislators in the East Bay, especially Senators Skinner and Wieckowski and Assemblywoman BauerKahan, for recognizing the severity of the sudden tree die-off issue and providing funding to address it,” said Park District Board President Dee Rosario. First noticed in the E a s t B ay i n O c t o b e r o f 2020, sudden tree die-off is affecting many varieties of trees throughout California, including eucalyptus, acacia, bay and pine. The estimated cost to remove the dead or dying trees in the district is $30 million based on current tree removal contracts. “EBRPD has more than 1,500 acres of dead or dying trees affected by drought and climate change conditions that

need immediate attention,” said EBRPD Fire Chief Aileen Theile. “These state funds couldn’t come at a better time, as we are shovel ready.” According to firefighters, dead trees burn hotter, faster and are more likely to cast embers downwind, igniting potentially dangerous new fires. And many of the park areas experiencing die-off are old eucalyptus plantations with a very high tree density. Wildfire protection is a year-round effort for the park district. Ongoing projects include regular fuels reduction, professionally trained full-time and on-call wildland firefighters, and remote automated weather stations that help monitor wildfire risks so that fire staff and resources can be deployed efficiently. In the past ten years, EBRPD has invested $20.5 million in its fuel reduction efforts to keep the East Bay hills safer from wildfire threats.

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August 2021

For the birds

by Ned MacKay from East Bay Regional Park District

The East Bay Regional Parks are home to a great variety of birds, and watching the avians in action is lots of fun. “Birding for Beginners” i s a g o o d way t o s t a r t . Naturalist Ashley Adams will offer the introductory program from 8:30 to 10 a.m. on Saturday, Aug. 21 at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch. Meet Ashley in the uppermost parking lot at the end of Somersville Road, 3½ miles south of Highway 4. Re s e r va t i o n s a re n o t necessary. Bring your own binoculars, though some loaners will be provided. Due to COVID-19 restrictions,

masks are recommended and social distancing must be maintained between participants. T h e p ro g ra m i s f re e of charge. Black Diamond Mines has a parking fee of $5 per vehicle when the kiosk is attended. For more information, call 510-5442750. While you’re at Black Diamond Mines, you can visit the park’s underground Greathouse Visitor Center, take a Hazel-Atlas Mine tour through old sand mine tunnels, or experience the new coal mine exhibit, which re-creates the sights and

sounds of a 19th century working coal mine, with mannequins instead of live miners. Entry to the visitor center is free of charge and all ages are welcome. There’s a fee for the two mine tours, reservations are required, and tours are restricted to ages seven and older for safety reasons. For more information, call 888-3272757, option 2, the phone number for all reservations. * * * Sunol Regional Wilderness in southern Alameda County has three interesting programs on the calendar in coming days. All participants are asked to observe park district Covidrelated protocols – masks and social distancing. Masks are required indoors, and are recommended when outside and in a crowded group. All three programs are free, but advance registration is required. Animal Adaptations is the theme of a program from 2 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Au g . 21 w i t h n a t u ra l i s t Kristina Parkison. She’ll talk about how animals adopt by physiology or behavior to the environment in which they live. “ W i l d Wo n d e r s ” i s scheduled from 2 to 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, Aug. 22. It’s a free, naturalist-led program of family-oriented games, activities and explorations. The third program is “Outdoor Discoveries: Have to Have a Habitat,” with naturalist Betty Villalta. It’s from 10:30 a.m. to noon on Monday, August 23 at the Sunol Visitor Center. Outdoor Discoveries i s g e a re d f o r a g e s f o u r through eight, with parental participation, though younger siblings are welcome. It’s

free, but advance registration is required and no drop-ins are allowed. Betty advises participants to dress for fun with clothes that can get mucky, and closed-toes shoes. Bring water and be wilderness ready – the park has neither cell phone service nor running water (except for Alameda Creek). For information or to register for any of the three programs, call 510-544-3249. Or you can register online at www.ebparks.org. Sunol Regional Wilderness is at the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road about five miles south of I-680 and the town of Sunol. * * * The Over-The-Hills Gang is back on the trails. It’s an informal, naturalist-led hiking group for people 55 and older interested in nature study, history, fitness and fun. N a t u ra l i s t Tra i l G a i l Broesder will lead the gang on a hike from 10 a.m. to 1 2 : 30 p . m . o n Tu e s d ay, Aug. 24 at Roberts Regional Recreation Area in Oakland. Roberts Recreation Area i s o n S k y l i n e B o u l eva rd about a mile up the hill from the intersection with Joaquin Miller Road. The hike is free of charge, but registration is required. Roberts has a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For registration and information, call 510544-2233.

Having additional outdoor seating in the parklets has helped restaurants begin to recoup some of the losses caused by the pandemic. Residents and visitors have also enjoyed the atmosphere of al fresco dining downtown and the majority of businesses were supportive of extending the outdoor parklets through the rest of the year. The Town is currently working on efforts to update

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FLYCATCHER from page 1

feet in height. Nesting pairs may occasionally reuse the same nest cavity in subsequent years. Both sexes construct the nest in from one to seven days, contingent upon the size of the nest cavity. Twigs, rootlets, grass, strips of bark, cow manure, and other materials are used to fashion a cup shaped nest. Hair, fur, feathers, and other soft materials are used to line the nest. Two to seven creamy white eggs, with reddish blotches and streaks, are laid. Incubation is from fourteen to sixteen days. Nestlings fledge in from thirteen to seventeen days. One or two broods are raised in a season. The extensive range, very large population, and generally increasing numbers, have the Ash-throated Flycatcher listed as a species of least concern by the international Union for Conservation of Nature. The

creation of “bluebird trails”, a network of nest boxes put out for the continent’s three species of bluebirds, has benefited other cavity nesting bird species, including the Ash-throated Flycatcher, a species that may also use the nest boxes. Habitat and nest cavity loss are the major threats to Ash-throated Flycatchers. Local populations of Ash-throated Flycatchers appear to be stable. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Please visit his website at www.dochale.com.

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t h e To w n ’ s D o w n t o w n Master Plan which will provide direction for f u t u re d eve l o p m e n t a n d improvements in downtown Danville and provide opportunities for activated spaces for community enrichment. Expanded outdoor dining opportunities will be one of multiple components to the master plan update effort.

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You’re Invited to Moonlight on the Mountain 2021 A Virtual Gala Event Saturday, September 11, 5:30–6:30pm via YouTube • And gather Join online to celebrate 20 years of Moonlight on the Mountain! • Hear from Executive Director Ted Clement and Land Programs Director Sean Burke about exciting developments at Save Mount Diablo. • Share in the Moonlight memories with longtime Board members Bob Marx and Scott and Claudia Hein, and others in our community who helped create this beloved annual event 20 years ago. • Get inspired by our 2021 Mountain Star Leadership Award recipient Robert Doyle. • Listen to the uplifting acoustic guitar and violin tunes of the Diablo Duo. • Peruse, bid, and win unique items and exciting experiences in our online auction!

friends and family together and support Save Mount Diablo with a Celebration Kit. Your kit includes Hall wine, tasty hors d’oeuvres, and some fun swag for you and your guests. Delivery is available within 15 miles of Walnut Creek. Interested in a sponsorship? View our sponsorship opportunities here or contact Karen Ferriere for more information. Questions? Call us at 925-947-3535 or email communications@ savemountdiablo.org. Register now to be the first to preview our auction items and be notified when the online auction will open. There’s no cost to register and watch the event.

Join Us For A Virtual Gala Event Saturday, September 11, 2021 | 5:30 pm Call or visit their website for tickets and information.

(925) 947-3535 www.savemountdiablo.org/Moonlight2021 Celebrate with Save Mount Diablo for their special 20th anniversary Moonlight on the Mountain on Saturday, September 11, at 5:30 pm. This virtual gala will include guest favorite Moonlight on the Mountain experiences, such as entertainment, exciting auctions, inspirational presentations, and more! This event benefits Save Mount Diablo’s work to protect Diablo’s natural lands and connect people to nature.

August 2021

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Save Mount Diablo Raises $15 Million to Protect 1,681 Acres On Thursday, July 8, Save great leadership, when they see Additionally, it has protected the Mount Diablo completed its $15 us successfully complete land Rideau property (5 acres) with a million Forever Wild Capital acquisition projects, when they conservation easement and now Campaign—the largest and see great educational efforts that has the funds to permanently most consequential fundraising are building the bench for land protect the Concord Mt. Diablo effort in the organization’s 50- conservation, when they see us Trail Ride Association property carefully stewarding our lands, (154 acres) with a conservation year history. Through Forever Wild, and when they see great and easement. Although most of Forever the organization raised the smart communications from us, necessary funds to protect they want to give and support Wild’s raised funds were for 1,681 acres of land in nine us—and they are, in huge and land acquisition, the campaign also raised substantial funds different properties. The total historic ways!” S a v e M o u n t D i a b l o so that Save Mount Diablo land conserved amounts to 2.6 square miles, an area bigger launched Forever Wild in was able to develop a robust Stewardship Endowment Fund than Emeryville or the San and Legal Defense Fund to Francisco Presidio. help sustain the organization’s The strategically chosen conservation work long-term. land is rich in conservation The Stewardship Endowment value. For example, federally Fund will generate interest endangered wildlife like the that can support native habitat California red-legged frog lives restoration, fire abatement on several of the properties. activities, invasive species The most recent property removal, and other stewardship that funds were raised to protect activities that keep land healthy is a 154-acre area owned by and safe. Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride The Legal Defense Fund Association (CMDTRA). The ensures Save Mount Diablo has property is both a mile wide east The nine properties that Forever Wild to west and part of the “Missing raised funds to permanently protect. the financial resources, when necessary, to legally defend its Mile,” a square mile of private land on North Peak’s face. It is 2013 with a campaign target conservation easements and surrounded by Mount Diablo of $15 million. By the end lands purchased. Together, State Park on three sides and of 2015, it had acquired the these funds will help sustain rises from 1,100 feet to 2,010 feet extraordinary 1,080-acre Curry Save Mount Diablo’s land with views from the Carquinez Canyon Ranch—one of the conservation work for years Strait and Suisun Bay to Lassen most important and spectacular to come. Clement continued, Peak and the Sierra Nevada private properties remaining in “Through Forever Wild we Contra Costa County. Range. Since Curry Canyon Ranch, also developed our fundraising On December 31, 2019, Save Mount Diablo and the CMDTRA Save Mount Diablo has acquired capabilities to better support our signed a two-year option Smith Canyon (28 acres), time-sensitive land conservation agreement to permanently Highland Springs (105 acres), mission into the future. We protect the property. After Big Bend (51 acres), Hanson truly have much to celebrate raising $1.04 million as a part Hills (76 acres), and Anderson and be grateful for.” For more of the final push to close Forever Ranch (95 acres); it has also information, please visit www. Wild, Save Mount Diablo will raised the funds to soon acquire SaveMountainDiablo.org be able to acquire a perpetual North Peak Ranch (87 acres). conservation easement with the CMDTRA later this year. Once protected, the 154acre property will help secure the extremely important Mount Diablo high peaks area local ecosystem and preserve the scenic value of North Peak. “Despite various challenges, like an over year-long national crisis and pandemic period, we stayed strong and focused on our Forever Wild Campaign and we cannot thank our great The Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association conservation easement land, which is surrounded by Mount Diablo State Park on three sides Campaign donors enough and other lands being protected by Save Mount Diablo. for helping us successfully conclude this effort that will pay lasting green dividends to our communities and local flora and fauna,” remarked Save Mount Diablo Executive Director Ted Clement. “When supporters see us responsibly managing our funds, when they receive sincere gratitude from us, when they see us involved in important advocacy battles, when they are inspired by our great team, when they see we are capable and skilled The 154 acres of open space on Mount Diablo’s North Peak, owned by the Concord Mt. Diablo Trail Ride Association, which will be protected fundraisers, when they see because of Forever Wild supporters. Photo by Cooper Ogden.

valleysentinel.com

August 2021

Sacred Mountains, Climate Change, and the Environment

A Special Nature Heals and Inspires Event with Edwin Bernbaum and spiritual significance of A past president of Harvard's Mountaineering Club, Edwin Bernbaum, Ph.D., has stood on some of the world's tallest peaks, but his work goes far beyond the mountains. An author, a lecturer, and a scholar of comparative religion and mythology, Bernbaum is the acclaimed author of Sacred Mountains of the World. He's lectured at the Smithsonian Institution, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the National Geographic Society. In this Nature Heals and Inspires presentation, Bernbaum explores the impacts of global warming on mountains and the people who revere and depend on them for life-giving water. He concludes with a discussion of projects he has worked on that use the inspirational and sacred value of mountains to promote environmental and cultural conservation. You're invited to join us for this special Nature

Heals and Inspires event on Thursday, August 19th, from 4 to 5 PM. About this event Sacred mountains highlight in dramatic ways the effects of climate change and people’s relationship to the environment. Edwin Bernbaum, author of Sacred Mountains of the World, explores the impacts of global warming on mountains and the people who revere and depend on them for lifegiving water. He concludes with a discussion of projects he has worked on that use the inspirational and sacred value of mountains to promote environmental and cultural conservation. About Our Guest Speaker Formerly Director of the Sacred Mountains Program at The Mountain Institute, is cochair of the IUCN Specialist Group on the Cultural and Spiritual Values of Protected A re a s ( C S V PA ) wo r k i n g on integrating the cultural

nature into the management and governance of protected areas around the world. A p a s t p re s i d e n t o f t h e Harvard Mountaineering Club and instructor at the Colorado Outward Bound School, he has climbed and done research in mountains throughout the world. He is featured in “Beyond the Mountaintops: Extraordinary Mountaineers, Extraordinary People,” an ex h i b i t a t t h e A m e r i c a n Mountaineering Museum on eight climbers who have pioneered advances in climbing and humankind. He holds a Ph.D. in Asian Studies from the University of California at Berkeley and an A.B. in mathematics from Harvard, where he a l s o d i d g ra d u a t e wo r k in social psychology and anthropology. Contact Shannon Grover with questions about this presentation at sgrover@ savemountdiablo.org.

RIDER from page 1

in California. After wrapping up his collegiate career at BYU, Fuhriman started cycling. Several years later, he rode an average of 113 miles a day from July 2-19, beginning at the Canadian border and traveling mostly along the coast to the border of Mexico, meeting up with friends and family along the way. Fuhriman drew inspiration for the ride from his grandmother Bev, who died last year from breast cancer. “She was an amazing, amazing woman,” he said. “She was a woman who left an impact on anyone she met. She was so full of life. After her passing, I realized how preventable breast cancer is.” An avid rider, Fuhriman, 27, said he wanted to use his love of biking to spread the message of early detection and prevention of breast cancer.

“My whole mission is to turn some heads and draw attention to breast cancer,” he said. Donning a pink jersey, Fuhriman used social media to let followers track his journey. He said he received “really awesome feedback” along the way, hearing stories from others affected by breast cancer while encouraging many to get screened. Fuhriman is using his platform to raise money for the Women’s Breast & Heart Initiative, an organization that goes door-to-door and provides education through other channels to promote healthy living while providing mobile mammography clinics. Fuhriman’s journey began July 2 at Blaine, Wash., as close as he could get to the border of Canada. From there, Fuhriman rode his Trek road bike along the coast, working his way through San Francisco down to Monterey and beyond via Highway 1 as a friend followed in an RV. He added that the path was easy for the most part to follow, except when Highway 1 dissolved into city streets or when cell service made for spotty GPS. Despite a few flat tires along the way, Fuhriman said he was very happy how his bike held up as well as his body, noting that he felt he could pedal all day in cruising gear.

98 percent of cases are curable, if they are detected early. But a national study by the Breast Cancer Surveillance Coalition found that the number of mammogram screenings took a significant dive during the height of the pandemic, as people were concerned about safety protocols at healthcare facilities. It’s this issue that is close to Trevor Fuhriman’s heart, which led him on a 1,700-mile journey along the West Coast on a bike to stress the importance of early detection through mammograms Fuhriman, a Monte Vista High School graduate who is now studying medicine at Nova Southeastern University in Florida, set multiple Track and Field school records in the 800m and 1600m establishing himself as one of the top milers

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Bay Area Health Officials Urge Immediate Vaccination and Issue Orders Requiring Use of Face Coverings Indoors to Prevent the Spread of COVID-19 and protect everyone. Health Counties of Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Sonoma, and the City of Berkeley Indoor Masking Orders Take Effect Tuesday Vaccination continues to protect against severe COVID-19 illness, but with the COVID-19 Delta variant now infecting a small percentage of vaccinated people as well as many unvaccinated people, eight Bay Area health officers have issued health orders requiring masks indoors in public places. The orders require all individuals, regardless of vaccination status, to wear face coverings when indoors in public settings, with limited exceptions, starting at 12:01 a.m. on Tuesday, August 3rd. Vaccines remain the most powerful tool in the fight against COVID-19, including the Delta variant. Nonetheless, the Delta variant is infecting a small percentage of the vaccinated in the Bay Area — who still remain strongly protected against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. In those instances of infection in a vaccinated person, a face covering prevents further spread. Bay Area health officials urge all unvaccinated residents 12 and older to get vaccinated as soon as possible. “We must act now to protect ourselves, our loved ones and our community. If you are eligible to get a COVID-19 vaccine and have not yet done so, please do not wait any longer,” said Dr. Chris Farnitano, health officer for Contra Costa. “During July the number of hospitalized COVID-19 patients in our county increased 400%. Four out of five of the COVID patients we see are not vaccinated, even though only one out of five Contra Costa adults are not vaccinated.” T h e s e h e a l t h o rd e rs aim to reduce community transmission of COVID-19

officials are very concerned by the substantial levels of community transmission now found across the Bay Area, especially among unvaccinated people. In part, this is due to the widespread COVID-19 Delta variant, which is substantially more transmissible than previous forms of the virus. Recent information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also indicates that even fully vaccinated individuals can in some cases spread the Delta variant to others, and so indoor use of face coverings provides an important added layer of protection. The new Health Orders require wearing a well-fitting m a s k i n d o o rs i n p u b l i c settings. Indoor settings, whether public or private, are higher risk for COVID-19 transmission, especially when you are with people you do not live with. Health officials also recommend that all employers make face coverings available to individuals entering their businesses, and businesses are required to implement the indoor face covering order. Today’s Health Orders are consistent with guidance from the Centers for Disea se Control and Prevention and the California Department of Public Health, which recommend that fully vaccinated individuals wear masks while in indoor public settings. Bay Area Health Officers will continue to monitor data, including increasing vaccination throughout the region, to determine when the Orders can be adjusted or lifted. For more information about COVID-19, and how to get a free vaccine near you, visit cchealth.org/coronavirus. Visit our website coronavirus. cchealth.org/get-vaccinated to learn where you can find a vaccination site near you or call 833-829-2626. If you missed your second dose, please find a vaccination clinic near you.

“I’ve never undertaken something like this before,” he said. “I really tried to push myself and draw as much attention as possible.” Fuhriman said based on the overwhelmingly positive response he received, he plans on another ride next year.

“The statistics are what originally got me hyped to raise as much awareness as possible,” he said. “This was not a one-year thing. It means so much to me.” To donate, visit bit.ly/3eK52xG. This story was written by Erik Chalhoub and featured here with permission from The Morgan Hill Times.

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August 2021

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Great New Back-to-School Books! Celebrate Free Comic Book Day at the By Susan Reckers, bookseller at Rakestraw Books Library Library together for a series postponed this year due to The Contra Costa County Library is celebrating Free Comic Book Days from August 16-21. The weeklong, all ages event brings the comic book industry and the

Virtual Events Online Superhero Storytime – Tuesday, August 17, 10 a.m. An Evening with Actor Jesse Burch, Tuesday, August 17, 5 p.m. Character Development with Sam Filstrup – Wednesday, August 18, 4 p.m.

of programs and giveaways to celebrate all that is comics. This year marks the 20th anniversary of Free Comic Book Day. Usually held the first Saturday in May, it was

COVID-19 and rescheduled for this summer. Visit any library branch to get a free comic swag bag between Monday, August 16 and Saturday, August 21.

Cosplay Panel Featuring Endor Base Bay Area Costuming Group – Thursday, August 19, 6 p.m. Charles M. Schulz: An American Cartoonist – Saturday, August 21, 10 a.m. A Conversation with Dan Slott – Saturday, August 21, 2 p.m.

Visit ccclib.org/free-comics to register for these free online events, search for graphic novels, read blog posts on comic related topics and much more. For media inquiries, please contact Public Information Officer Brooke Converse at brooke.converse@library. cccounty.us or (925) 608-7713.

All the Ways to Be Smart by Davina Bell Teachers, parents and kids will adore this fabulous look at all the non-standard ways we can be smart. In addition to traditional academic success, it celebrates creativity, physical activities, music, emotional sensitivity, memorization, kindness, and taking chances. This beautiful picture book is a great gift for any preschooler through kindergartner. (ages 3-7)

Totally Trains at the Museum of the San Ramon Valley but not for long! The trains are running through the museum but sadly they will end on August 22. The main layout features a village scene with models of Danville and San Ramon’s present and past buildings. The newest addition is the

Danville Presbyterian Church which was located on Front Street from 1876 to 1932. The trains will travel over trestles, bridges and through a mountain. So, All Aboard for Totally Trains but only until August 22!

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

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

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

Sentinel John W. Walding Business Owner

Sentinel Lina Efremenkova Louisiana State Univeristy

Sentinel Cardia Summers Columbia University

Sentinel Christopher Lamy Juris Doctorate

Time for School, Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle The Little Blue Truck books are favorites of our youngest customers, both boys and girls. This new addition to the series is as appealing as the others, and perfect for the Fall. As Little Blue Truck sees the yellow school bus making stops all through town, he wants to help. And soon he gets his chance! We also have plush Little Blue Trucks – the perfect gift combo. (ages 2- 6) Clayton Parker Really Really Really Has to Pee by Cinco Paul This hilarious rhyming picture book tells the familiar tale of the kid who waits just a bit too long to realize they need to find a bathroom. Pairing great pictures by Gladys Jose and laugh-outloud text, kids of all ages will relate to and cheer on Clayton! (ages 4-7) Better with Butter by Victoria Piontek This charming story about a girl who overcomes intense anxiety will appeal to so many kids, particularly those who love animals. Marvel is in 6th grade in a suburb of San Francisco (Danville?!) and has endured bullying. She rescues a goat when a group of older kids are tormenting it, and fights to keep it as an emotional support animal. At its core, the book has strong positive

messages about standing up for those who can’t, and learning to cope with social anxiety. (ages 8-12)

Linked by Gorman Korman This is a very popular author who is dealing with a much more serious topic than normal – racism and hate. But don’t let that scare you off, because Korman brings his trademark excellent multiple point-ofview storytelling and humor. A swastika shows up on the wall of a middle school in a small town, and no one knows what to think or who to blame. More swastikas appear. Some students take the opportunity to make the horrible situation into a very positive one. I promise you will laugh and cry! Truly memorable and very well

done. (ages 9-13) Weird Kid by Greg Van Eekhout For those kids who love to laugh and are drawn to adventure, try Weird Kid. It’s a science fiction mystery centered on an alien blob of goo in the form of a human named Jake. While most kids worry about chores and homework, Jake worries that his shape-shifting abilities might fail him during the school day. Full of sink holes, butt jokes (Jake’s dad is a proctologist) and friendship issues. (ages 8-12)

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Events and News Bits The Town of Danville’s Village Theatre Art Gallery Presents Bellissimo! An exhibition featuring 12 Contemporary Italian & Italian American Artists Now through – October 14, 2021, The Town of Danville’s Village Theatre Art Gallery presents Bellissimo! An art exhibit featuring the creative talents of 12 Italian and ItalianAmerican artists who reside in Northern California. Artists included in this exhibition are Kym Cortigiano, Gianluca Franzese, Tricia Grame, Maria Grazia Romeo, Lar Landa, Robert LaRocca, Paulette Perone Long, Carlos Pillado, Nola Pardi Proll, Michael Rizza, Peter Scaturro and Emily Smith Silvestri.

The exhibition has been co-curated by two Danville Artists: Tricia Grame and Emily Smith Silvestri. Both women sought out an array of imagery, styles, subject matter and media to highlight the many talents of a variety of Italian Artists. The two resident artists collaborated with Museo Italo Americano in San Francisco to curate an eclectic show that pays homage to Italian culture and heritage. The Village Theatre and Art Gallery is currently

open to visitors Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. and on Saturdays from 11:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. All other days by appointment only. Admission is free, and donations are appreciated. Please check the website www.danville. ca.gov/vtart for opening hours as health guidelines may change. For more information, contact Visual Arts Coordinator Marija Nelson Bleier at (925) 314-3460 or m n e l s o n b l e i e r @ d a n v i l l e. ca.gov.

Moratorium Modifications: State & County Changes to the Eviction Moratorium California extended its statewide residential eviction moratorium, which will now protect tenants affected by t h e C OV I D - 1 9 p a n d e m i c through September 30, 2021. Legislators hope that the extension will permit ample time for new funding to make its way to landlords and cover 100% of back-owed rent owed by low-income tenants who struggled to make rent payments due to COVID-19. California’s new laws also permit local jurisdictions to extend their commercial moratoriums. Join us for an informative discussion on Wednesday, August 18, 2021, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m., as Hoge Fenton real estate attorneys Giuliana Ferrante and Steven Kahn discuss m o ra t o r i u m u p d a t e s f o r Alameda, Contra Costa, Santa Clara, and San Mateo counties, with a focus on commercial properties. Former California State Assemblymember and Special Counsel to Hoge Fenton, Catharine B. Baker will be joining us to kick off the webinar.

This webinar is provided as an educational service by Hoge Fenton for clients and friends of the firm. This communique is an overview only, and should not be construed as legal advice or advice to take any specific action. Please be sure to consult a knowledgeable professional with assistance with your particular legal issue. © 2021 Hoge Fenton Speakers Steven Kahn Shareholder/Chair - Real Estate & Land Use @Hoge Fenton Steven Kahn is a seasoned real estate lawyer who balances litigation skill with strategy to achieve his clients’ goals and protect their interests. Steven focuses on real estate disputes and litigation. He represents clients throughout Northern California, including individuals, families, trusts, real estate professionals, insurers, municipalities, and businesses of any size, private or public. Giuliana Ferrante Attorney @Hoge Fenton G i u l i a n a Fe r r a n t e i s

a m e m b e r o f t h e f i r m ’s Real Estate and Land Use practice group. She is an accomplished litigator who represents clients through all stages of litigation from case evaluations to appeals. Giuliana’s practice focuses on handling intricate appellate matters, business litigation, insurance coverage, insurance bad faith claims, and other commercial disputes. Catharine B. Baker Special Counsel @Hoge Fenton C a t h a r i n e B a ke r i s a former California State Assemblymember who represented the 16th Assembly District from 201 4 t h ro u g h 201 8 . S h e is a Commissioner with the California Fair Political Practices Commission, which administers and enforces California’s landmark government ethics laws. Catharine is Special Counsel at Hoge Fenton, where she advises businesses and non-profits and practices election law.

Nephrotic Syndrome Foundation Summer Splash 2021 doing their best cannonball those affected by Nephrotic Join us for a socially distanced, do from home fundraising and awareness campaign! Our goal is to have social media flooding with videos or pictures of participants

or bellyflop or dive, tagging The Nephrotic Syndrome Foundation! Help us bring awareness through 100 new followers and $5,000 to this fight by the end of August. By participating you raise awareness and funds for

Syndrome. Start your team by clicking ‘Fundraise with Us’ below! Have a blast, and go make a SPLASH! Visit https://www. nephroticsyndromefoundation. org/summer-splash-2021 for more information.

Join us in the Garden We welcome you to visit our meetings and to become a part of The Walnut Creek Garden club! Yo u ’ l l f i n d f r i e n d l y members, with varying interests including: • C r e a t i n g and improving our gardens with new plants and techniques • Supporting Garden Education in local schools • S u p p o r t i n g l o c a l environmental charities with community grants

• Learning about the fun of arranging flowers • Volunteering to help local gardens, fundraisers and plant sales We m e e t t h e s e c o n d Monday of each month at 9:30 AM, September through June at The Gardens at Heather Farm. If interested in joining our Club or for more information, please visit our website at www.walnutcreekgardenclub. org.

LIVE Interactive Webinar: How to Successfully Plan a Kitchen or Bathroom Remodel • G a i n i n s i g h t I n f o r m a t i v e. Inspirational. Empowering. Wednesday, August 18, 2021 - 10:30 AM to 12 PM PST We are sharing our passion and expertise in creating lifetime enjoyment in peoples’ homes by hosting a safe, enjoyable, LIVE webinar focused on how to successfully plan a kitchen or bathroom remodel. If you’re anticipating a highpressure sales presentation, it’s quite the opposite. Join us to:

into kitchen and bathroom design trends, including amenities and features • U n d e r s t a n d h o w to budget for a kitchen or bathroom remodel • Learn how long it should take to complete a kitchen or bathroom remodel • Learn what to expect from start to finish Presenter: Chris Gayler, General Manager, Gayler Design Build For information call (925) 820-0185 to register.

Scalia and Ginsberg are Coming to Walnut Creek Searching for a great way to put behind all the craziness that was 2020 and begin healing the divide between the right and left? Look no further than Solo Opera’s production of Derrick Wang’s one-hour comedic opera in English, Scalia/Ginsburg. Inspired by the opinions of the late U.S. Supreme Court Justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg (liberal) and Antonin Scalia (conservative), the opera highlights their unlikely bi-partisan friendship and mutual love of opera. They disagreed on how to

interpret the constitution but were both unwavering in their reverence for the sacredness of it. Filled with witty humor and musical nods to favorite composers, this charming opera is sure to appeal to everyone! The opera’s message is, “We are different. We are one”, a message of healing, friendship, diversity, and inclusiveness.” Scalia/ Ginsburg is booked for Friday, Sept. 10 - 8:00pm and Sunday, Sept. 12, 2021 2:00pm at the Lesher Center for the Arts. The chamber opera will be accompanied by a seven-piece orchestra under the baton of Maestro Alexander Katsman. Seating is reserved and ticket prices are Adults: $50, Seniors: $40, Youth 17 and under: $25. For tickets call (925) 943-7469 or visit the Lesher Center for the Arts Ticket Office: 1601 Civic Drive Walnut Creek, CA.

Senior Living page 8

Jun

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August 2021

Buzz Sessions Return to Danville Senior Center

Free bi-weekly lecture series covers a range of topics for seniors STAND DOWN ON THE DELTA is a four-day, threenight event in which Veterans are provided medical and dental, court and legal services, DMV, Housing, addiction and mental health counseling, employment, and a myriad of other community services.

September 10 – 13, 2021 Contra Costa County Fairgrounds located in Antioch Thank you for your contribution to Delta Veterans Group. Your support will help out Veterans and their families in the greatest need to make the toughest transition of their lives. Delta Veterans Group is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization. Tax ID #462650624. Your contribution is tax deductible to the extent allowed by law

www.DeltaVeteransGroup.Org Registration is open until 9/1/21

With in-person programming coming back to the Danville Senior Center, the Town is excited to announce the return of the popular free lecture series “Buzz Sessions”. Seniors are invited to the Danville Senior Center on Tuesday mornings a t 10 : 0 0 a . m . b e g i n n i n g on July 27, 2021, for free bi-weekly lectures on an assortment of topics. Topics can be educational, medical, some good old-fashioned fun, and anything in between.

Upcoming topics i n c l u d e a 2 0 21 I n c o m e a n d E s t a t e Ta x S u r v i va l Wo r k s h o p , Te c h n o l o g y To o l s f o r t h e C a re g i ve r, J o u r n e y t o We l l n e s s A Functional Medicine A p p ro a c h U s i n g N a t u ra l Tr e a t m e n t s , P r e m i e r Travel 2021, and How to Avoid Holiday Scammers. A complete list of Buzz Sessions, dates, and topics through the end of the year can be found at www. danville.ca.gov/seniors.

The Danville Senior Center will be offering two lectures per month through the end of the year. In January 2022, Buzz Sessions will return to a weekly Tuesday morning schedule. All participants, age 55 & up are welcome. To re g i s t e r, c a l l ( 9 2 5 ) 31 4 3430 or visit www.danville. ca.gov/recguide. The latest information on all Town events can be found on the website calendar at www. danville.ca.gov/calendar.

The Town of Danville encourages citizens to participate in public meetings Advertise in The Valley Sentinel! For information, please contact Denise Rousset at 925-820-6047 or email info@valleysentinel.com.

1 DAY |100 HOLES

Members of the public can watch or listen to meetings via the web-video communication platform Zoom. Agendas are posted on the Town website: https://www.danville.ca.gov/ agendas Public comments may be provided in one of two ways: 1. Z o o m – v e r b a l comments 2. E m a i l - w r i t t e n comments

Zoom: To provide live comments during a virtual meeting, join the meeting at the scheduled time via the Zoom link provided on each agenda. When the agenda item is opened to public comment, click on the “Raise Your Hand” option in Zoom. Your name will be announced and you will have up to 3 minutes to share your comments.

Email: To provide written comments, send an email to the staff contact listed on the agenda prior to the comment deadline. Correspondence should include the meeting date and agenda item number. All comments received prior to the deadline will be provided to the Commission in advance of the meeting. Written comments will not be read into the record.

SEPTEMBER 13, 2021 Castlewood Country Club, Pleasanton Register @ Hope100GolfMarathon.com

PL AY YOUR FAVORITE GAME FOR A GREAT CAUSE

Join this fun and challenging charity golf event that raises support for hospice care in the Tri-Valley and adjacent East Bay cities. You’ll be among an exclusive group of golfers who will take on this unique dawn-to-dusk personal challenge, playing 100 holes of golf in one day at the beautiful Castlewood Country Club in Pleasanton. 9 Your registration is a display of your heartfelt generosity to raise a minimum of $2,500 in support 9 The event has a quick pace of play. Most people complete 18 holes toward Hope Hospice’s mission of care and service to our community. every two hours. Although score is Your green fees, cart rental, three not of primary importance, we will meals, and course beverages are all award prizes related to your score. covered by your registration fee. 9 You may register as an individual 9 Some players pay their and attempt the 100 holes on your own registration; others seek own; or, split the challenge among sponsorship from friends and family. friends.

How it works

Hope100GolfMarathon.com

Sneakers & Paws Event raised funds for Hospice On Monday, the Friends of Hospice Rossmoor sponsored the eighth annual Sneakers and Paws Walk for Hospice. The purposes of this event were to raise awareness of Hospice East Bay, promote volunteer opportunities, and raise funds to support our music therapy program and the Rossmoor Respite Fund. Over 100 people and their pets from Rossmoor and beyond registered this year – people of all ages and dogs of all breeds. Several Hospice East Bay Pet Pal volunteers brought their dogs to join in the walk and promote their program.

Two members of Friends of Hospice Rossmoor tried something new this year, asking their children and grandchildren to sponsor their walk. Through sponsorships and donations, the event raised almost $12,000! Several of those in attendance were not aware of volunteer opportunities at Hospice East Bay, so they connected with Tami Blaj, our Volunteer Manager to learn more. Several staff members from Hospice East Bay attended the event, including music therapists who shared how their therapy benefited patients and families. Some staff members walked the course which took

them through part of the golf path at Rossmoor. Fortunately, the golf course is closed on Mondays, so the walkers had the course to themselves. Hospice East Bay is grateful to Friends of Hospice Rossmoor for supporting our services and for helping us with events such as these. Being part of a giving community connects us in ways that go far beyond the services we provide. Through their efforts and through donations from other groups and individuals, we continue to expand what we offer our patients and families, confident that we will be “here when you need us.”

Be kind to the environment – please recycle this newspaper

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HOSPICE

is not what you think it is. Did you know that you can receive hospice or palliative care services and still… • Go out to lunch with friends? • Attend religious services or club meetings? • Play golf, tennis or any physical activity you can handle? • Travel? Enjoy life? Call us for more information.

HospiceEastBay.org | (925) 887-5693

Reimagine your garden This fall, you can trade up your thirsty garden for a water wise one. The lawn goodbye starts with help from EBMUD. Apply for a rebate (recently increased!) to replace your lawn and upgrade inefficient or leaky irrigation, and you can enjoy a beautiful garden next summer. For more conservation tips and rebate info visit ebmud.com/drought.

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AUTO March 2009 July 2021

2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E Select RWD By David Colman

Do you remember the epochal first generation Shelby Cobra? It was powered by a High Performance Ford 289 cubic inch V8 making 271hp. That two seater, based on the AC Ace platform, turned an eye-popping 0-60mph time of 5.8 seconds back in 1963. Then came its Shelby stable mate, the GT350 Mustang of 1965, which cranked out an equally startling 0-60mph time of 5.5 seconds. We l l , s p o r t s c a r enthusiasts, welcome to 2021, the year Ford’s electric powered Mustang Mach-E jumps from zero to sixty in an even more satisfying time of 5.2 seconds. 428 lb.-ft. of torque does wonders for instant grunt. You will note the Mach-E’s sprint eclipses the acceleration times of the two most legendary sports cars Ford has ever made. Even more amazing, the Mach-E is no stripped down two seat conveyance, but a fully conceived sports utility package that jumps off the

starting line like a 289 Cobra, then eats up curves like the original Mustang GT350. Ford calls this brave new world “Exhilaration Electrified.” All this swell performance can be yours for just $42,895 f o r t h e re a r - w h e e l - d r i ve (RWD) version. And since the Mustang Mach-E qualifies for the maximum $7,500 Federal Electric Drive Motor Vehicle Tax Credit, the effective outthe-door price reduces is just $35,395. If, however, you want to increase range from 230 to 305 miles, you will need to order the $5,000 optional “88KWH USABLE EXT BATTERY.” An all-wheel-drive (AWD) Mach-E is also available, with a 210 mile range for the standard battery and a 270 mile range for the optional battery. A lot of enthusiasts have been slow to accept Ford’s use of the name Mustang for the Mach-E. After all, since 1964, the company has been building a continuous succession of Mustang 2+2 coupes powered by a wide

variety of gasoline and hybrid drive trains. While Ford has no plans to discontinue that fabled line, the new addition to the family definitely earns its right to the name based on my recent drive in a Mach-E. Unlike so many of the pretentiously

When you climb into the well padded driver’s seat of this handsome vehicle, you immediately note Ford has taken strict measures with the layout of the interior to make the control interface familiar to driver’s of conventionally powered vehicles. This effort is much appreciated, especially

futuristic E-cars I have driven over the past few years (Chevy Spark, Chevy Volt, Toyota Prius, Jaguar I-Pace, and most recently, VW ID.4), Ford has thankfully refused to make the Mach-E daringly different in looks, operation or feel just for the sake of being different.

in view of the infuriating visual and operational complexity electric car manufacturers feel compelled to impose on their unwitting customers. For example, the Mach-E has a lovely, knurled shift dial located on the top of the center console, right where

valleysentinel.com you would expect to find it. Likewise, the exterior mirror adjustments are handled by an array of switches located on the driver’s armrest, easy to locate and easy to use. In action, the Mach-E responds to the accelerator pedal with the kind of response and alacrity you would expect of a sports car. Throttle actuation is progressive, not overly nervous. Brake feel is commendably free of the disconcertingly wooly feel that plagues so many electric powered and hybrid vehicles. If you choose to opt for full regenerative braking, the choice is available via a dialogue box on the Mustang’s e n o r m o u s c e n t ra l v i d e o screen. A helpful auxiliary video screen, horizontally located directly behind the steering wheel, imparts critical information like battery charge life remaining, road speed, and traffic sign information. Frontal and side visibility is excellent, and acceptably good to the See MUSTANG page 11

Find Your New Thrill: Ford Mustang Mach-E

From the #1 Mach-E Dealership in NorCal!* Don’t just choose an EV, excite your drive with a Mach-E. Enjoy power, performance and range in the all-electric 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E: • 0-60 in 3.5 seconds‡ • Drive up to 305 miles† in one charge! • 15.5” touchscreen with SYNC® 4A • Premium B & O sound system, wireless charging, panoramic roof & more!

Schedule a Test Drive or Create Your Custom Order at WalnutCreekFord.com/MachE.html

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1800 North Main Street in Walnut Creek

925-932-2900

*Based on total new retail sales Ford Report, YTD, Northern California Region. **You may qualify for as much as $7,500 in federal tax incentives for purchasing an all-electric Ford vehicle in 2020 and 2021. The federal tax credit is a potential future tax savings. The amount of your tax savings will depend on your individual tax circumstances. **The California Clean Fuel Reward is available to anyone who buys or leases a new electric vehicle with a battery capacity greater than 5 kWh from a participating automotive retailer. †Mach-E Premium RWD with extended range battery. ‡Mach-E GT Performance Edition.

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Local Advocacy: How Cities and Counties are Heard in Sacramento By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors

Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, my office has fielded countless phone calls and emails from concerned constituents with questions related to health orders and the reopening process. A common question was the uncertainty over who was making the rules, whether the County had the ability to impose looser or more restrictive guidelines, or if state guidelines superseded everything at the local level. Given the high level of awareness and concern during this difficult period, I was often urged to reach out to state officials and advocate for certain changes my constituents wanted. Counties and the State work cooperatively, and there are various ways that counties are able to have their voices heard in Sacramento. Counties operate under provisions outlined in the state constitution. The 58 counties in California are responsible for providing and MUSTANG from page 10

rear, even with the back seats and headrests fully erect. If you choose to make your reverse moves while using the display screen camera, you can adjust the size of the image from large to extra large. The most outstanding achievement of this new Ford is that it will transport you into the future of electric transportation without requiring you to adapt to a new ethos of weirdness. In other words, you can jump from a gas powered vehicle into the seat of a Mach-E and accept the future of driving without the need to earn a PhD first. As Car and Driver put it, “If an automaker wanted to convert people from EV skeptics to EV evangelists, it’s hard to imagine a better vehicle for the job than the Ford Mustang Mach-E.” As you might expect, Bay Area Ford Dealers are thrilled to add this ecologically groovy goldmine to their inventory. Unfortunately, microchip, battery and steel shortages have resulted in delivery delays. Compared to last year, Ford deliveries have dropped by

administering many Federal, State and municipal services The cities in Contra Costa County do an outstanding job overseeing areas such as planning, housing, parks, recreation, roads, transportation, and police services. The County handles these same matters in unincorporated communities. Counties provide many services that cities do not, including Health services, and have an appointed Health Officer, a physician who has State authorized emergency powers that permit them to issue the various Health Orders they have during the pandemic. Other services provided by the County include Airports, Agriculture, Animal Services (except for Antioch, which has its own Animal Services Department), Assessor, Child Support Services, ClerkRecorder, Coroner, County Hospital and Health Clinics, District Attorney, Elections, Environmental Health, Emergency Medical services, Hazardous Materials, Iron Horse Trail Management, Jails, Library System, Mental Health, Probation, Public Defender, Public Health, Sheriff, Tax Collection, Veterans Services and Weights & Measures. 325,000 units in 2021. Standing next to the only Mustang Mach-E on the lot, Walnut Creek Ford General Manager Camron Savarani says “A lot of them are basically pre-selling. Customers are putting deposits on them before they even get here.” Meanwhile, over in Novato, longtime Marin County Ford salesman Glenn Ross had this telling observation about Ford’s new product: “At one point we had 5 used Teslas sitting here that we took in trade on Mach E’s. The owners swapped cars after finding out that Ford, unlike Tesla, knows how to make a really comfortable driver’s seat.” 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E Rear Wheel Drive Motor: Permanent magnet Synchronous AC Horsepower: 266hp Torque: 428lb.-ft. Energy Consumption: EPA Combined/90MPGe Range: 230 miles (Standard Battery); 305 miles (Optional Battery) Price as Tested: $42,895 Hypes: Looks Good, Drives Well, Sensibly Conceived G r i p e s : Av a i l a b i l i t y Fluctuates Star Rating: 10 Stars out of 10

AdvAnced LAser

and Contra Costa counties and provides members the ability to collaborate on a wide variety of issues for the sake of their respective towns and cities. The East Bay Division advocates for Contra Costa County Towns and Cities by working with regional field staff and lawmakers to sponsor, draft, and support legislative and regulatory measures that promote local decision-making and local control. The League of California Cities also forms coalitions with other local government associations and stakeholders to advocate for common goals and take positions on legislation. Over 400 city officials serve on the Cal Cities seven policy committees, which shapes Cal Cities’ overall advocacy efforts. For more information about the League of California Cities, visit www.calcities.org. My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, A l a m o , Wa l n u t C r e e k , 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 or www.cccounty/district2.

legislation and regulations. It can be reviewed at www. contracosta.ca.gov/2859/ Legislation. To assist with achieving the objectives of our state platform we engage professional assistance in monitoring legislation and advocating for or against bills by utilizing the services of the Nielsen Merksamer Firm. There are also important organizations that serve as a bridge between the local and state level. One of these is the California State Association of Counties (CSAC). CSAC works to develop and promote policies that directly impact the programs and services provided by California’s counties. It works with the Legislature, Governor’s office, agencies, commissions, and other state bodies through testimony, meetings, and other correspondence to relay its positions. C SAC a l s o r e p o r t s to counties about the developments in Sacramento as well as Washington D.C. through the CSAC Bulletin, its website, email alerts, and policy committee meetings. For more information on CSAC, visit www.counties.org. Another similar organization, but whose work is focused on cities, is the League of California Cities. Its East Bay Division includes 33 cities in Alameda

The County is also the “safety net” for individuals and families in crisis. Services assisting people include Adult Protective Services, Child Protective Services, Cal Fresh (Food Stamps), Cal Works, Head Start Pre-School Programs, Homeless Services, Medi-Cal Health Services, Foster Care and Adoption. Like the many city and town governments of District II, I have been fortunate to have great working relationships with the state representatives whose own districts coincide with mine, which currently are held by Assemblymember Rebecca Bauer-Kahan and State Senator Steve Glazer. Throughout this pandemic we have worked closely with them on county and state issues related to COVID. They are very responsive to our input on legislation. A resource we have at the County level for addressing both state and federal policies and legislation is a Board of Supervisors Legislation Committee, which identifies strategies to improve awareness, understanding and advocacy on issues and legislation of importance to Contra Costa County. The County also creates and approves a Legislative Platform each year that establishes priorities and policy positions on potential

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