in your
Regional Parks
s
Alamo • Danville • Blackhawk • Diablo • San Ramon
VALLEY
Inside this month...
THE
SENTINEL always for the community VOl 22 nO 2
February 2017 2017 Summer Programs for Youth
Atlatl Throwers, and Willow Baskets, all at Coyote Hills Plus many other activities for kids and families in your East Bay Regional Parks!
39th Annual Dr. Martin Luther King Junior Celebration a Success
ECRWSS
Postal Customer
PRESORTED STANDARD US POSTAGE PAID DANVILLE, CA PERMIT NO. 70
See MLK AWARDS page 11
Sentinel Newspapers, Inc. 390 Diablo Road, Ste. 145 Danville, CA 94526 925-820-6047
www.valleysentinel.com
Johnny Appleseed Day, Sheep Shearing Day, Tartan Day all at Ardenwood Spring Native Plant Sale at the Botanic Garden Skills of the Past: including Fire Making, Cordage Making,
SPOTLIGHT
On Tuesday January 17, Contra Costa County held its 39th annual Martin Luther King Jr. Humanitarian Awards ceremony. During this event, two area residents received much deserved recognition for their contributions and hard work to make Contra Costa County a better place to live.
Look inside
for this Activity Guide
East Bay Regional Park District Regional in Nature Activity Guide
One of my favorite times of year is when the East Bay Regional Parks announces its annual Trails Challenge. Each year there is a different list of parks and trails to discover. Go to www.ebparks.org to download the PDF of this year’s trail guidebook; or stop by a participating EBRPD Visitor Center to pick up a hard copy. You can get a free T-shirt and at the end, a commemorative pin. Lots of fun, and new places to explore every year!
Eh—What’s up, Doc? The Black-tailed Jackrabbit can still be seen in Contra Costa County decreasing the blood flow By James Hale The Black-tailed Jackrabbit (Lepus californicus) was once a common sight throughout Contra Costa County. Unfortunately, suburbanization has fractured their habitat to where they are only found in remnant, isolated, disjunct populations. The East Bay Regional Parks, where quality habitat is available, still support healthy populations. Golf courses and airports also provide open space for their survival. The Black-tailed Jackrabbit is common in the western United States and northern Mexico in grasslands, savannahs, deserts, irrigated pastures, row crops, and a variety of habitats. They can be found from below sea level to over 10,000 feet in elevation. The Black-tailed Jackrabbit is actually a hare. Hares differ from rabbits because their precocial young, called leverets,
are born with fur, and with their eyes wide open. Adult males, called bucks, usually weigh from 9 -11 pounds, while females, called does, weigh from 11-13 pounds. They may be anywhere from 16-28 inches long, with a 2-5 inch tail. They are gray to grayish- brown above, whitish to buff below, with a black mid-dorsal stripe on the tail running up onto the back. Their eyes are located on the side of their heads, enabling them to see in front, to the side, and behind them. They have excellent vision, sense of smell, and hearing. Black-tailed Jackrabbits have huge donkey-like ears, up to 8 inches long, and were called “jackass rabbits” because of this similarity. They can regulate their body heat by increasing or
through the ears, allowing them to either absorb heat or cool off, a process known as thermoregulation. Hares and rabbits are perhaps nature’s ideal prey. They have long legs which aid to propel them up to 40 mph, helping them to outrun many of their enemies or escape them by out-maneuvering with their classic zig-zag pattern. They can change direction abruptly, leap over 6 feet high, and over 20 feet long. Jackrabbits are good swimmers by dogpaddling with all four legs. While I was surveying wildlife in the desert once, a Blacktailed Jackrabbit literally ran over the tips of my boots with a coyote doing the same in hot pursuit. They both stopped a ways off, and to my amazement, both stood upright on their hind legs
while pivoting like a turret, and upon realizing what they had done after seeing me, made quick retreat in opposite directions. I had a good chuckle. The soles of the jackrabbit’s feet are covered with fur which cushions their feet on hard ground, and insulates them from the scorching heat of the desert sand.
This month’s Special Section:
Senior Living
pages 7 - 9
See RABBIT page 11
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
page 2
The Valley SenTinel
Now through February 11 Catfish Moon Three middle-aged men, inseparable as adolescents, reunite beneath a magical Catfish Moon in an attempt to recapture the friendship of their youth. While casting lines from a favorite boyhood pier, the weight of adulthood is lifted by their love of fishing. General admission $18, seniors, $16, students $10, Thursday bargain price $12. Martinez Campbell Theatre 636 Ward Street, Martinez. Visit Onstagetheatre.homestead. com or call 925-518-3277. Uncommon Thread Now - February 18 An exhibition featuring unique art quilts created by a local quilting group, The Creative Fiber Artists.
February 2017
The work in this show depicts landscapes and still-lifes and quirky interpretations of everyday things. These are not traditional quilts in that they do not follow oldfashioned quilting patterns and they incorporate mixed media, setting them apart from the typical American quilt. Free. Village Theatre & Art Gallery, 233 Front Street. www.danville.ca.gov/ Things-To-Do/Art-andCulture/Village-TheatreArt-Gallery or 925-3143460. Role Players Ensemble presents: The Piano Lesson Now - February 19
valleysentinel.com August Wilson won the 1990 Pulitzer Prize for this stirring, soul-searching drama. $20 - $28. Village Theatre and Art Gallery, 233 Front Street, Danville. www.villagetheatreshows. com or 925-314-3400.
The showdown is over the family piano. For Willie, selling the piano could mean a new life. For his sister Berenice, the piano embodies the story of her family and to sell it would be like selling the family’s soul. The Piano Lesson sheds light on the struggle the AfricanAmerican community has with its painful past and leads us all to ask questions about identity, the value of family and how our histories shape our choices and our lives.
WANTED! POKER PLAYERS TEXAS HOLD ‘EM FUNDRAISER No Experience Needed! Must be 21+
Cut Up/Cut Out Now – March 5 An exhibition of local, national, and international artists who explore the captivating methods of decorative piercing and cutting, using a wide range of media from paper and plastic to metal and rubber. The transformative nature of cutting into and through a surface provides endless possibilities for converting the material from opaque to transparent, from flat to sculptural, from rigid to delicate, and from ordinary to exquisite. The process and precision required for this method of art-making is laborious, technically demanding, and always astonishing. General $5; Youth (1317) $3; Members, Ticket Holders and Children 12 and under, free. Bedford Gallery inside the Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. www.lesherartscenter.org
Purchase tickets at: www.mowsos.org/event/poker/ Or call
When: Saturday, Feb 25, 2017 Where: The Danville Grange
743 Diablo Rd., Danville Time: 6pm-11pm Cost: $85 per person includes buy-in, full BBQ dinner from Andy’s BBQ and one drink ticket.
Meals on Wheels and Senior Outreach Services
San Ramon Youth Symphony Concert February 6 8pm. Be inspired by the incredible musicianship of The San Ramon Youth Symphony led by Director David Sego. The group is made up of talented young people from the TriValley area. You will be impressed and entertained as they play both classics and well known music.
Great opportunity for future prospective Youth Symphony members to see what playing in the group is all about! 45 minute concert. FREE! Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, located on the Dougherty Valley High School Campus, 10550 Albion Road, San Ramon. www.sanramon.ca.gov/ parks/theater or call 925973-3343. Auditions for New Adult Choir in the Valley Tuesday, February 7 and Wednesday, February 15 7:30 - 9:00pm; Sunday, February 12 2 - 3:30pm. Over the past year, Bruce Koliha, an Alamo resident and former music director at Monte Vista High School, formed a community chorale in the Valley, which is now 60 singers strong. Open auditions for singers wishing to join. Wesley Center at the San Ramon Valley United Methodist Church, 902 Danville Blvd., Alamo. Visit www.srvchorale.com or call 925-984-5833.
Friday Foreign Film Series: Cinema Paradiso February 10 7pm. If ever a movie came from the heart it is Cinema Paradiso, which offers a nostalgic look at films and the effect they have on a young boy. (In Italian with English subtitles) Not Rated. 123 min. $10. Front Row Theater located inside the Dougherty Station Community Center. 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon. www.sanramon. ca.gov/parks/theater or call 925-973-2787 Lamplighters Music Theatre presents Gilbert and Sullivan’s Patience February 10 - 12 Come revel in the
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
valleysentinel.com
comic stylings of that aesthete-to-end-allaesthetes, Reginald Bunthorne, as he pursues the winsome and simple milkmaid Patience while simultaneously enjoying the worshipful adoration of his 20 love-sick groupies; the uproarious confusion of a hapless corps of jilted Dragoon Guard as they struggle to become aesthetic initiates in order to win back their old girlfriends; and the hilarity that ensues with the sudden unexpected appearance of the handsome aesthetic poet Archibald Grosvenor, who proves a rival for the affections of everyone else on stage! $50. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. www.lesherartscenter.org Night At The Improv Love Is In The Air February 11 8pm. Join Suburban Thunder Improv Company for an evening of spontaneous improvisational comedy! $10. Front Row Theater located inside the Dougherty Station Community Center. 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon. www.sanramon. ca.gov/parks/theater or call 925-973-3343.
Dixieland Jazz February 18 1:30-4:30pm. On the 3rd Saturday of every month you can enjoy the music of the Devil Mountain Jazz Band. Bring your own beverages, snacks and a friend or two! There is a large dance floor and lots of free parking. $15. Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Road, Danville. Information visit www.jazznut.com or phone 925-625-2707.
February 2017 Come Together: The Beatles Concert Experience February 18 7:30. Never before has there been a tribute to the Fab Four quite like ‘Come Together: The Beatles Concert Experience.’ In this live musical performance, ‘Come Together’ recreates the look, sound and history of the Beatles, taking you back into time to witness the Beatles phenomenal rise to pop stardom. Hoffman
Show” and many other talk shows, Cho has been a staple in the comedy world for over 30 years. $16 - $41. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, located on the Dougherty Valley High School Campus, 10550 Albion Road, San Ramon. www. sanramon.ca.gov/parks/ theater or call 925-9733343.
Theater, Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. www. lesherartscenter.org
Bay Area Children’s Theatre Presents Pippi Longstocking February 18 and 19 10:30am and 1:30pm. Annika and Tommy are in for some excitement when they meet their new neighbor, Pippi Longstocking, who has crazy red pigtails, a horse, a pet monkey named Mr. Nilsson, and a tendency to get caught up in one outrageous adventure after another. Whether Pippi is fending off burglars, wrestling a circus strongman, or sailing away on a pirate ship, she wins over even the sternest of hearts in this staged musical version of Astrid Lindgren’s beloved book. Recommended for age 5 and up. $25 adults, $23 seniors, $20 children, $15 groups (minimum 15.) Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, 10550 Albion Road, San Ramon. www.bactheatre. org or call 510-296-4433. Henry Cho: The Funny But Clean Comedy Tour February 24 8pm. Henry Cho brings his family friendly comedy tour to the Bay Area. Veteran of “The Tonight Show,” “Late, Late
I Can Do That Theatre Co. presents Bye Bye Birdie February 24 - March 5 I Can Do That is a non-profit youth theatre company dedicated to creating professional, full-scale musicals by combining quality training with imagination, freedom, and fun. Village Theatre & Art Gallery, 233 Front Street, Danville. www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3460.
Preschool Performance Series Cowgirl Karen Quest March 3 10am. Presented in 1 hour with no intermission. Making little ones laugh, dance, and sing-along since 2009, the Town of Danville is pleased to continue to present fun and unique top-level performance for small children. $5. Village Theatre & Art Gallery, 233 Front Street, Danville. www.villagetheatreshows. com/ or 925-314-3460. Rhythm In The Night - The Irish Dance Spectacular March 4 8pm. An epic journey derived from a tale of
The Valley SenTinel
page 3
located on the Dougherty Valley High School Campus, 10550 Albion Road, San Ramon. www. sanramon.ca.gov/parks/ theater or call 925-9733343. good versus evil. The story line will capture the imagination of everyone in the family and transport them to a mystical time and place of heroes and redemption. Led by former Michael Flatley’s Lord of the Dance lead dancer, Justin Boros, the accomplished cast of Rhythm in the Night features 20 of the world’s most skilled Irish dancers and musicians. Single Ticket Price $44, Season Ticket Price $41. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center,
Friday Foreign Film Series: I Wish March 10 7pm. This comingof-age story about two brothers who have been separated will leave a lasting impression with viewers about yearning, belief and family. (In Japanese with English Subtitles) Rated PG. 128 min. $10. Front Row Theater located inside the Dougherty Station Community Center. 17011 Bollinger Canyon Rd, San Ramon. www.sanramon. ca.gov/parks/theater or call 925-973-2787
A Home Improvement Show!
Sunday, February 12, 2017 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Danville Community Center 420 Front Street, Danville
FREE ADMISSION FREE DRAWING Presented By Media Sponsors
www.HomeExpoEvents.com
page 4
The Valley Sentinel
February 2017
District Attorney’s Office Summer Intern Program By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
The summer following my first year of law school I had the opportunity to work in the District Attorney’s office in my hometown of Honolulu. It was an amazing experience. I saw firsthand how our country’s criminal justice system truly works. Not everyone who was arrested was brought to trial, and not everyone prosecuted was convicted. Constitutional rights were respected and someone went to prison only after a judge or jury found him guilty beyond a reasonable
doubt. Even those convicted had the opportunity to challenge their conviction on appeal. Perhaps most satisfying, I saw vindication for illegal acts committed and help provided to the victims of crimes. This summer High School and College students have the opportunity to experience a similar first hand look at our California justice system working in our District Attorney’s Office. Applications are now being accepted for the Contra Costa District Attorney’s Office College and High School Summer Intern Program. The program is open to those who will be either seniors
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
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
in high school or attending college in the fall. Interns will be assigned to units within the office and will learn about the criminal justice system and assist Deputy District Attorneys in the preparation of cases. They will also have the opportunity to attend trials. Interns will be able to participate in several field trips during the summer. Previous trips included tours of San Quentin, the Contra Costa County Crime Lab and U.S. Coast Guard Facility in San Francisco. Michael Lloyd, a Monte Vista High School Graduate who now attends Texas Christian University, was an intern in the summer of 2015. About the program, Michael said, “The most fascinating part for me was how thorough the attorneys are. They do more than what they need to do to assure their success. That was the most useful thing I learned because it applies to all fields, whether you want to go into the law field or choose something different. Working for the DA helped me understand what I need to strive to do to be successful in the classroom. The thoroughness and work ethic that I was taught has helped me develop in college.” Michael suggests that students apply to learn about the criminal justice system. He also said, “Being a part of the group gives you a hands-on experience with interesting cases that happen in your community. I also have made lasting friends from
valleysentinel.com the program who I would never have come across without this summer internship.” Another intern from the summer of 2015, Andrew Ferber, was assigned to work in the sexual assault unit. He said, “Over the course of the summer I worked on approximately five cases, all involving differing types of evidence and areas of the law. My work began immediately on the first day: transcribing interviews, preparing outlines and summaries, and sorting through evidence. A typical day in the office consisted of collaboration with the other interns in my unit, individual analysis on my assigned work, and personal meetings with the Assistant District Attorney overseeing the unit. When an attorney in the unit needed assistance on a specific case that was in the early stages of jury selection, the group of interns in my unit worked cohesively on different projects to help prepare for the case. Once the trial began, we were able to see the products of our work used first hand in the courtroom. We attended a majority of the actual trial, including opening statements, direct and cross examination, and closing statements. This interconnected process of case preparation and witnessing real courtroom action was one of the most valuable experiences of my time as a Summer Intern at the District Attorney’s Office.” Andrew graduated from Dougherty Valley High School in San Ramon and is now a junior at Carnegie Mellon University in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. If you would like to be considered for the
program please send a resume and cover letter to Deputy District Attorney Dominique Yancey at dyancey@contracostada.org by March 15th. If you have any questions please call 925-957-8785. 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 by email at SupervisorAndersen@bos. cccounty.us or by phone at 925-957-8860.
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. Twoway communication is essential for growth and understanding. Write us at P.O. Box 1309, Danville, 94526, email to drousset@ valleysentinel.com, or call us at (925) 8206047. Thank you! —Denise Rousset, Publisher
A CHIROPRACTIC/MEDICAL NETWORK
Phillip Runco, D.C.
Call for appointment now! 685-0335
Alamo News Update
Alamo Acronyms and Abbreviations By Steve Mick
www. blueherongraphics.com
There are a number of AlaThere are a number of Alamo residents who are active in the community. Their volunteer efforts make Alamo a great place to live. A large part of their activities consists of attending meetings - lots and lots of meetings. Over
time, participants have evolved a number of short cuts and abbreviations for various topics under discussion. To a new person, this “shorthand” may be a bit confusing. This was brought home to me at an Alamo liaison meeting a few weeks ago. The format was a round table with each person speaking in turn. When the discussion came around to a person new to the meeting,
she expressed more than a little puzzlement over the acronyms and abbreviations. Definitions were of course provided to her. This experience led me to create a list of these acronyms and abbreviations. I use many of these when I’m taking notes during meetings to save time and ink. See ACRONYMS page 5
valleysentinel.com
February 2017
The Valley Sentinel
Sponsored Content
Healing Pinched Nerves and Neck Pain By Dr. Niele Maimone, DC
If you are suffering with neck pain from a pinched nerve or herniated disc, you know how debilitating it is and how the pain slowly leaks the vitality from your life. At Align Healing Center we specialize in treating pain naturally. It is our mission to help relieve pain without the use of drugs, invasive procedures and without inducing more pain! If you or someone you care about suffers from pinched nerves or disc related pain, it is worthwhile to explore the natural therapies that are available today. What is cervical disc herniation? The bones (vertebrae) that form the spine in your back are cushioned by round, flat discs. When these discs are healthy, they act as shock absorbers for the spine and keep the spine flexible. If they become damaged, they may bulge abnormally or break open (rupture), in what is called a herniated or slipped disc. Herniated discs can occur in any part of the spine, but they are most common in the neck (cervical) and lower back (lumbar) spine. A herniated disc usually is caused by wear and tear of the disc. As we age, our ACRONYMS from page 4 AIA: Alamo Improvement Association APSAC: (app-sack) – Alamo Police Services Advisory Committee: an appointed group of residents who advise the county and the sheriff on law enforcement issues. Also known as the P-2B Committee AT: Alamo Today: Alamo’s news publication CFA: Community Foundation of Alamo: A volunteer group that organizes the annual Tree Lighting Festival in December and the Alamo Restaurant Walk-About CoCoTax: Contra Costa Taxpayers Association CSA: County Service Area: A CSA can be formed in unincorporated areas to provide a revenue stream for
discs lose some of the fluid that helps them maintain flexibility. A herniated disc also may result from injuries to the spine, which may cause tiny tears or cracks in the outer layer of the disc. The jellylike material (nucleus) inside the disc may be forced out through the tears or cracks in the capsule, which causes the disc to bulge, break open (rupture), or break into fragments. What are the symptoms of a herniated disc in the neck? Herniated discs in the neck (cervical spine) can cause pain, numbness, or weakness in the neck, shoulders, chest, arms, and hands. In some cases a very large herniated disc in the neck may cause weakness or unusual tingling affecting other parts of the body, including the legs. Arm pain from a cervical herniated disc is one of the more common cervical spine conditions. The arm pain from a cervical herniated disc results because the herniated disc material “pinches” or presses on a nerve in the neck, causing pain to radiate along the nerve pathway down the arm. Along with the arm pain, numbness and tingling can be present down the arm and into the fingertips. Muscle weakness
may also be present due to a cervical herniated disc. How can I heal my pain without drugs or surgery? 1. Non-Surgical Spinal Decompression Therapy Non-surgical spinal decompression is a state of the art treatment that has been helping thousands of patients with chronic neck or low back pain, sciatica, and herniated, bulging or degenerated discs. This is an entirely different treatment from traditional chiropractic adjustments. Many of the patients who are candidates for this procedure have already tried chiropractic, physical therapy, injections, and/or were told they would need surgery. This breakthrough treatment works by gently separating the vertebra which decompresses the disc, thus causing the bulging material to be drawn back into the disc. Non-surgical spinal decompression is very effective, has a high success rate, and can be utilized for both cervical and lumbar disc injuries. 2. Class IV Laser Therapy Laser treatments at Align Healing Center are done with the K-laser 1200 Class IV Laser. Class IV Laser therapy gets to the root of the injury and treats it at the cellular
taxpayer-approved services. In Alamo, a CSA designated “R-7A” funds Alamo Parks and Recreation. DACC: Danville Area Chamber of Commerce (includes Alamo) DVB: Danville Blvd FOAC: (foh-ack) Facilities Oversight and Advisory Committee: A committee formed by the San Ramon Valley Unified School District to oversee and advise the district on school facility matters. IHT: Iron Horse Trail: The largest park in Alamo LAFCO: (Laugh Co) - Local Agency Formation Commission. Not many people know what this group does, but it’s worth Googling since this body affects all of Contra Costa County MAC: Municipal Advisory Council: an appointed group of residents who advise the county
on various governmental activities in Alamo RHCC: Round Hill Country Club SVMS: Stone Valley Middle School SRVHS: San Ramon Valley High School: Not to be confused with: SRVHS: San Ramon Valley Historical Society VS: Valley Sentinel: The fine publication that you’re reading… ZA: Zoning Administrator: A county official or designee who hears requests for variance permits among other duties 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.
level, providing energy to the cells so they can heal. This laser does not cut or burn but is gently absorbed by the tissue. During each painless treatment, laser energy increases circulation, drawing water, oxygen and nutrients to the damaged area. This creates an optimal healing environment that reduces inflammation, swelling, muscle spasms, stiffness and pain. As the injured area returns to normal, function is restored and pain is relieved. There is hope! We have found that a combination of Class IV laser therapy and spinal decompression offers
page 5
outstanding results in healing stubborn neck pain due to a pinched nerve, bulging discs or spinal degeneration. This unique combination of noninvasive therapy offers a chance for realizing a permanent cure for neck or back pain. This eliminates the long-term care commitment forced upon patients by other symptomatic low-back pain treatments, such as drugs, injections or surgery. With proper care and rehabilitation of your spine you can be back to your healthy self quickly! For more information about Dr. Niele Maimone, DC or to set up a complimentary consult call 925.362.8283 or visit www. alignhealingcenter.com.
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
Chris@via.pm.com
valleysentinel.com page 6 The Valley SenTinel
February 2017
The Valley SenTinel page 6 valleysentinel.com
The Golden Gate Audubon Celebrates Centennial By Beverly Lane, East Bay Regional Parks District
Among the many enjoyable activities that are available in the East Bay Regional Parks is birding. Hundreds of varieties of birds make their homes in the regional parks and other public open spaces, and park district naturalists lead frequent programs to observe and appreciate our feathered friends. A premier organization dedicated to protecting birds, other wildlife and their habitats is the Audubon Society. And the Golden Gate Audubon Society is celebrating its 100th anniversary this year. The first Audubon societies were founded in the late 1800s to end mass slaughter of birds to obtain feathers for hat decoration. Golden Gate Audubon was founded in 1917 by students who had taken Harold
via Canon Drive from Grizzly Audubon’s work against oil Peak Boulevard in Berkeley. Bryant’s nature study class at spills continues to this day. For information, call 510-544the University of California. Golden Gate Audubon is 2233. It was originally named celebrating its centennial with Alan Kaplan, a longtime the Audubon Society of the a roving exhibit, Tilden naturalist now Pacific, and at the time was “100 Years of Protecting retired, leads bird walks at the only Audubon group Bay Area Birds,” which will Tilden Nature Area on the between Los Angeles and be on display at fi ve venues first Friday of every month. Portland, Oregon. Golden throughout 2017. It will be at Meet Alan at 8:30 a.m. in Gate Audubon now has the Environmental Education the center and Little Farm 10,000 members/supporters. parking lot With members on for a twoboth sides of the mile round Bay, it covers San trip walk to Francisco, Oakland, Jewel Lake Berkeley, Alameda, in search Albany, El Cerrito, of birds. Richmond, Alan has Orinda, Moraga, led more Piedmont, San than 100 Pablo, El Sobrante, such bird Kensington and walks since Treasure Island. 2011. The One of the walks are organization’s first announced efforts succeeded Snowy Plover - photo by local naturalist James Hale at the in changing a Center in Tilden Nature Area chapter’s website. practice of oil shipping firms, near Berkeley from now (Feb. The East Bay’s other which had been discharging 1) through March 31. Center Audubon chapter is the contaminated ballast water hours are from 10 a.m. to Mount Diablo Audubon off the Farallon Islands. After 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Society, which covers most a meeting with Audubon, the Saturdays. The center is of Contra Costa County from companies began recycling located at the north end of San Francisco Bay east to the waste oil at onshore facilities Central Park Drive, reached Delta and Central Valley. instead. Golden Gate
Mount Diablo Audubon holds educational programs the first Thursday of every month except July and August in the Camellia Room at The Gardens at Heather Farm Park, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the main program starts at 7 p.m. The program on March 2 will feature snowy plovers. For more information about Golden Gate Audubon, visit their website at goldengateaudubon.org. For Mount Diablo Audubon the website is diabloaudubon.org. Close to home, park district naturalist Kevin Dixon plans a walk in search of winter season raptors from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 25 at Diablo Foothills Regional Park in Walnut Creek. Meet Kevin at the Orchard Staging Area, which is near the end of Castle Rock Road, past Northgate High School. The group will look for birds of prey in Pine Canyon and on Castle Rocks, which are home to peregrine falcons, the fastest animal on Earth. For information, call 888-327-2757, ext. 2750.
Park District Announces 2017 Trails Challenge The East Bay Regional Park District invites the public to join its 24th annual Trails Challenge program, in which participants hike at least five trails or a minimum of 26.2 miles in the East Bay Regional Parks. Thanks to support from the Regional Parks Foundation and Kaiser Permanente of Northern California, the program is free to East Bay residents. The program launched on January 1st, 2017, and participants have until Dec. 1st to complete the challenge – which is self-guided and self-paced. Participants turn in a trail log to receive a commemorative pin, while supplies last. As always, the
program runs on the honor system. No verification of the hikes is required. Participation is easy. For faster service, registration is no longer required. Hikers may go to www.ebparks.org to immediately download a PDF of this year’s trail guidebook; or stop by a participating EBRPD Visitor Center to pick up a hard copy – and a free T-shirt – while supplies last. A complete list of participating Visitor Centers is also available at www.ebparks.org or by calling 1 (888) EBPARKS, option 2. Each year, the guidebook highlights 20 different trails
Anthony Chabot Sunrise. Photo by Yung Chen
throughout the Park District. A handy guide is provided so that you may pick out the trail that’s right for you: easy, moderate, or challenging, and with a variety of features. An icon alerts park visitors to trails that are open to dogs – most are. Six of this year’s trails are accessible to wheelchair users. “We’re pleased to invite you outdoors once again with another year of this popular program,” said EBRPD Regional Interpretive and Recreation Services Manager David Zuckermann. “With a menu of exciting options, it makes visiting the parks easy and accessible for all.”
Point Pinole runner. Photo by Marc Crumpler This year’s featured hikes include trails in the following locations: In Contra Costa County: Bishop Ranch Regional Preserve, San Ramon Brushy Peak Regional Preserve, Livermore Kennedy Grove Regional Recreation Area, Richmond Marsh Creek Regional Trail, Oakley/Brentwood Martinez Regional Shoreline Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, Richmond Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, Richmond In Alameda County: Alameda Creek Regional Trail, Union City/Fremont Anthony Chabot Regional Park, Castro Valley Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve, Oakland Coyote Hills Regional Park, Fremont Crockett Hills Regional Park, Crockett Del Valle Regional Park, Livermore Five Canyons Open Space, Hayward Garin Regional Park, Hayward Leona Canyon Regional Open Space, Oakland Martin Luther King Jr. Regional Shoreline, Oakland Pleasanton Ridge Regional Park, Pleasanton Redwood Regional Park, Oakland Roberts Regional Recreation Area, Oakland
Senior Living valleysentinel.com
page 7
February 2017
Falls can be prevented by making a few adjustments and having a strategy By Staff Writer According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one-fourth of Americans aged 65 and over fall every year. They say that every 11 seconds, an older adult is treated in the emergency room for a fall, and every 19 minutes, an older adult dies from a fall. Getting older brings physical changes and health conditions and sometimes medications can increase the risk of falling. Falls bring a risk of serious injury such as hip fractures, broken bones or head injuries and it is important to consider strategies for minimizing your risk of falling both at home and while out and about. Seniors who have had a fall are more likely to fear the eventuality of anther, more serious one down the road, which can affect confidence and cause an older adult to become fearful and depressed. This makes it more difficult to stay active. Most falls are preventable. By raising awareness of the most common factors that can lead to a fall, changes can be made that minimize risk. These factors are Balance, Medications, Chronic Medical Conditions, Vision and Environment, according to the national Council on Aging. (NCOA). Modifications in lifetime habits can increase safety as we age. According to the Mayo Clinic, these common factors include: • Balance and gait: As we age, most of us lose some coordination, flexibility, and balance—primarily through inactivity, making it easier to fall. • Vision: In the aging eye, less light reaches the retina—making contrasting edges, tripping hazards, and obstacles harder to see. • Medications: Some prescriptions and over-thecounter medications can cause dizziness, dehydration or interactions with each other that can lead to a fall. • Environment: Most seniors have lived in their homes for a long time and have never thought about simple modifications that might keep it safer as they age. • Chronic conditions: More than 90% of older adults have at least one chronic condition like diabetes, stroke, or arthritis.
Often, these increase the risk of falling because they result in lost function, inactivity, depression, pain, or multiple medications. Visit your doctor. Listing your medications: including supplements and over the counter drugs will help your doctor review them for side effects and interactions that may increase your risk of falling. If you have fallen before: discuss the details including when, where and how you fell. Be prepared to discuss instances when you almost fell but managed not to. Your doctor can then identify specific fallprevention strategies. Consider your condition: Certain eye and ear disorders may increase your risk of falls. Discuss with your doctor your comfort level when you walk, or if you feel any dizziness, joint pain, shorteness of breath, or numbness in your feet and legs when walking. Your doctor can evaluate your muscle strength, balance, and walking style (gait) as well. Keep Moving. Consider activities such as walking, water workouts or tai chi — a gentle exercise that involves slow and graceful dancelike movements. Many Senior Centers and Park and Recreation programs offer these classes for Seniors. In Danville there is a class called Balance, Stability & Fall Prevention. At this time, this class is on most Mondays at the Veterans Hall. For information call coordinator Ian Murdock at (925) 3143431. Remove Home Hazards and Keep your Home Brightly Lit. Take a look around your home. Each room can be filled with hazards that you can remove or alter to make your environment safer. This includes boxes, electrical cords , coffee tables, loose rugs etc. Use nonslip mats in your tub or shower along with a bath seat allowing you to sit while in the shower, and install a hand-held shower. Bathrooms should have grab bars in the tub and shower, and near the toilet. Make sure to have two secure rails on all stairs. Avoid wearing floppy slippers or shoes with slick soles
that can cause you to slip, stumble and fall. If you have hardwood floors instead of carpet, avoid walking around in stocking feet. Properly fitting footwear with nonskid soles go a long way in preventing accidents. Place night lights in your bedroom, bathroom and hallways. Make sure your lamps are within easy reach. It’s suggested that glow in the dark, illuminated switches are a good idea. Make sure you have flashlights stored in easy-access spots in case of power outages. If you’ve fallen before and feel uneasy and fearful, ask your doctor about assistive devices such as a cane or walker to keep you steady. Handrails on stairways are helpful, as well as nonslip treads for barewood steps. If necessary, ask your doctor for a referral to a Physical therapist. He or she can help you consider other fall prevention strategies. Some solutions may require professional help or a larger investment, but an investment in fall prevention, according to experts, is your investment in your independence and quality of life.
For more informatioin visitwww.ncoa.org. The National Council on Aging
(NCOA) is a NonProfit 501c3 working to improve the lives of 10 million older adults by 2020.
Walnut Creek Independent Senior Living Community
We have a new “Pointe” of view! Located in Downtown Walnut Creek...
walk to Shopping, Restaurants, the Arts, Cinema and Events
Home Care Assistance
provides excellent care when needed
Latest in Technology!
(Ohmni Labs Robots as featured in NY Times, SF Chronicle, ABC7News, PBS and CNBC News.)
All Inclusive
Amenities/Social Events/Transportation
1, 2 & 3 Bedroom Apartments Mouth Watering Dining
in Newton’s on-site Restaurant
Lock your rent in for 2 or 3 years! Never Toured The Heritage Downtown? Come…Tour…Dine…Reserve your new home… We have your keys!
(925) 943-7427 1785 Shuey Ave. 1 (866) 847-1776 Walnut Creek, CA www.theheritagedowntown.com
2016 BARRON’S
TOP 100 INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISORS
8
C
M
YEARS
Y
CM
MICHAEL YOSHIKAMI IS RECOGNIZED AS ONE OF AMERICA’S “TOP 100 INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL ADVISORS”1 BY BARRON’S
IN A ROW
MY
READY FOR A FRESH PERSPECTIVE?
CY
If you have investable assets of at least $500,000 and would like a complimentary portfolio review of your current strategy, call 855.396.7526 for more details.
CMY
K
MICHAEL YOSHIKAMI, CFP®, PH.D. IS CEO AND FOUNDER OF DESTINATION WEALTH MANAGEMENT AND AUTHOR OF “YOUR MONEY, YOUR FUTURE” WWW.DESTINATIONWM.COM 1255 Treat Blvd. Suite 900 | Walnut Creek, CA 94597 | PHONE: 855.396.7526 1
The ranking reflects the volume of assets overseen by the advisors and their teams, revenues generated for the firms and the quality of the advisors’ practices. The scoring system assigns a top score of 100 and rates the rest by comparing them with the winner. The Barron’s award is not indicative of Destination Wealth Management’s future performance.
Senior Living page 8
valleysentinel.com
February 2017
Don’t Get Stuck with Medicare Late Fees
Enjoy Life More
with a Reverse Mortgage
By Greg Dill
Homeowners 62 years or older: A Reverse Mortgage may be right for you! Call Greg Sawdey at (925) 487-2354 to get a proposal TODAY or visit gsawdey.totallyreverse.com to download a complete guide to Reverse Mortgages. HighTechLending, Inc., Licensed by the Department of Business Oversight under the California Residential Mortgage Lending Act. NMLS #7147. Licensed in AZ #0912577, CA #4130937, CO #7147, FL #7147, HI #7147, MD #21762, NJ #7147, OR #ML4386, PA #49892, TX #7147, UT #8874117, WA #7147. 2030 Main Street #350, Irvine, CA 92614. NMLS Consumer Access: www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org
Hope Hospice _ bringing hope for a better today
F
or more than 35 years, patients and families facing life-limiting illnesses have turned to Hope Hospice. We help bring hope for a better today, so you can enjoy what matters most to you. Why families choose Hope Hospice: • Community-based, non-profit • Staff availability 24/7 • Personalized care • Accredited by The Joint Commission • Medicare and Medi-Cal certified • Committed to quality Let us know how we can help you. We’re just a phone call away. (925) 829-8770
Hop eHosp i ce.co m
This past holiday season, I found myself in line at the airport counter, waiting to check a bag prior to a flight to visit family and friends. The gentlemen in front of me got frustrated when the customer agent said he had to pay more to check a bag because he hadn’t paid for it online beforehand. I could relate to his irritation since I’d had a similar experience years ago. But I was late for my plane and hoped the situation would be remedied soon. After talking to a manager and reviewing the terms of the ticket purchase, the man paid the extra fee. The rest of us in line sighed quiet relief as the clock ticked down to our departure times. The gentleman’s reaction made me think of a Medicare beneficiary I encountered a while back. He’d decided not to enroll in Medicare Part B, which helps pay for doctor fees, outpatient treatment, and preventive-care services, when he was first eligible. At the time he declined his Part B benefits, he was in good health. He rarely saw a doctor, didn’t take prescription drugs, and never had been admitted to a hospital. Part B carries a
monthly premium (about $109 for most people in 2017), and the man didn’t think he should pay for something he didn’t need. Several years later his health declined and he wanted Part B. He signed up in March but learned that his coverage wouldn’t start until July. And since he waited five years to enroll after he was initially eligible (and didn’t have job-based insurance during that time), he discovered that he’d have to pay a late penalty equal to 50 percent of his monthly premium. He was very surprised, to say the least. He reached out to Medicare to reduce the penalty, but unfortunately we couldn’t do anything to help. When the beneficiary turned down Part B five years earlier, he signed a document explaining the penalty and the potential for higher costs. He now must pay this surcharge on his Part B premium for as long as he has Part B. Why does Medicare have such penalties? Like private insurance, Medicare spreads its costs across a “pool” of insured people that includes both those who are healthy and those with medical problems. Late-enrollment penalties are meant to ensure that people join the risk pool when they’re healthy, not just when they get sick. Thus, premiums paid by healthy people help offset the costs of those who with illnesses, keeping the program’s overall expenses as low as possible for everyone.
Late-enrollment penalties can add up. Your Part B premium may go up 10 percent for each full 12-month period that you could’ve had Part B but didn’t sign up for it. (You don’t usually pay a late penalty if you defer Part B while you’re covered by employer insurance.) So please remember: If you don’t sign up for Part B when you’re first eligible, you may have to pay the late penalty for as long as you have Part B. Late penalties also apply to Medicare Part A, which covers hospitalization. Although the vast majority of people with Medicare don’t pay for Part A, those who do must sign up when they’re first eligible or face a potential penalty. You can also get hit with a penalty for late enrollment in Medicare Part D, which helps pay for prescription drugs. The way it’s calculated is more complicated than Part B, but this penalty can add up, too. For details, see the 2017 Medicare & You handbook, mailed to every person with Medicare in the fall. It’s also online athttps:// www.medicare.gov/pubs/ pdf/10050-Medicare-andYou.pdf. Or call us, toll free, any time of day or night, at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800633-4227). Greg Dill is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, and the Pacific Territories.
Free Tax Preparation Begins in February Free tax preparation for the 2017 tax season is now available from AARP’s Tax-Aide and United Way’s Earn It, Keep It, Save It (EKS) programs. All tax preparers are trained and certified by the IRS. While both programs serve taxpayers of any age, TaxAide does not have an income limit in whom they can serve but EKS can only serve individuals whose incomes do not exceed $50,000.
For information or to make an appointment for the Tax-Aide sites serving the San Ramon and Danville areas, please call: (925) 973-3250 San Ramon - San Ramon Senior Center site; (925) 4807202 Danville – Veterans Memorial Bldg. of SRV site. For general information and other site locations, call: (925) 726-3199. For information on EKS sites call 2-1-1 or visit www. earnitkeepitsaveit.org.
To complete your tax return, Tax-Aide will need you to bring to the appointment your: • Social Security Card or ITIN letter for all individuals to be listed on the return • Photo ID for the taxpayer and spouse • Copies of all W-2s • 1098s and 1099s • Other income and deductions • Your 2015 Tax Return • Proof of medical insurance if you are not on Medicare.
Senior Living valleysentinel.com
page 9
February 2017 Sponsored Content
Caring for an aging parent?
5 Reasons Why You Should Draft Your Advance Directives BEFORE You Get Sick By Dr. Sherellen Gerhart
It is best to make decisions in a clear minded and healthy state. At times of medical crisis, our judgment can be clouded by the sense of urgency that accompanies critical hospitalizations. We may be experiencing pain, suffering, and/or medication that impair our ability to employ perspective and good judgment. Knowing what your basic preferences are before you get sick will provided guidance for decisions in the critical care setting. Making decisions when we are well also allows us time to have more comprehensive communication with loved ones, so they feel prepared. Coordination of communication takes time, effort and thoughtfulness. Unless you are very clearly communicating your wishes to your family/loved ones, they cannot be sure how you prefer to have your care handled. When you choose a proxy or surrogate decision maker, it is imperative that you take the time to have a meaningful conversation and ongoing dialog regarding preferences to ensure your desired care choices are understood and followed. Helpful websites with tools to assist you in initiating a conversation about these topics: 5 Wishes: http://www. agingwithdignity.org The Conversation Project: http:// theconversationproject.org Formulating and verbally expressing our personal preferences is a process, and may necessitate more than one conversation. Preferences evolve over time and as our health changes. Rarely do families sit down and draft a complete advance directive after
one conversation. It is never too early to start this conversation. Advance directives can be changed. Just because you draft an advance directive today, does not mean you may feel the same way in 1 year, 5 years or at age 92. These directives can be revised to reflect your changing preferences. The exercise of completing an initial set of preferences and communicating with loved ones will have value at any time and will inform as well and make the process easier in the future. Since we cannot predict when our health may change, being prepared and periodically revisiting our stated preferences will facilitate better outcomes and a higher probability of receiving the care we desire. You may also discover attention to these topics facilitates other important discussions and may help you determine what your desired legacy is beyond health care decisionmaking. Unexpected Sudden illnesses arise. Many of us will develop a sudden illness, which may not be immediately life threatening, but may place us at risk for loss of physical function or complications impairing decision-making. Regardless of why someone finds themselves in the midst of these choices, we all will face a final common pathway. In our current healthcare system, Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR), has come to be an expected offering, no matter what the underlying illness or clinical condition; but CPR, as a life-saving treatment was developed and meant to be initiated on individuals who had a chance of viable and meaningful recovery. Unfortunately, CPR is often
performed on people with very advanced illness or terminal conditions which results in additional bodily injury or the need for even more invasive medical care. CPR is initiated when the breathing or the heart stops (biologic death). CPR is performed as an attempt to revive or “bring the body back to life”. In the setting of a terminal illness, reviving someone may result in a far worse functional state and ensures that the individual will go on to “die again”, potentially with additional pain and or suffering. At a minimum, it is good to be sure your loved ones and proxy know your CPR preference. If you are sure you would not want to be resuscitated, your physician can assist you in documenting a “Do Not Resuscitate” (DNR) order, sometimes referred to “Allow Natural Death”. Choosing a proxy or surrogate decision maker may require careful thought. Many of us assume that our closest family member or friend should be our medical decision maker (proxy). This choice deserves some careful thought. Making difficult decisions on behalf of another may seem overwhelming to an unprepared proxy, and may result in non-decision making if you choose a proxy who is uncomfortable carrying out decisions due to emotion or personal beliefs. Choosing a proxy carefully and communicating clearly with your proxy is one of the best ways to ensure your preferences will be followed. It is not a good practice to assume your spouse or next of kin will be prepared to make difficult decisions about your care without thoughtful discussion. Dr. Sherellen Gerhart is the Director of Supportive Services at Epic Care. www. epic-care.com
Be kind to the environment Please recycle this newspaper
The right answers–right now!
Our consultants get you started right away – Let us guide you through caring for your loved one
$150 Per Session*
*Exp. 5/1/17 – Sessions are 50 minutes by phone or in person
• • • • •
Legal paperwork (attorneys) Caregivers Housing options Long term care insurance Adult day programs
• • • • •
Doctors Home health agencies Hospice care Emotional counseling And so much more
CARE CONSULTING
(800) 441-6373
www.agemodern.com/advice
1990 N. California Blvd., 8th Floor, Walnut Creek, CA 94596
PORTEOUS PORTEOUS PORTEOUS PORTEOUS FAMILY DENTISTRY FAMILY DENTISTRY FAMILY DENTISTRY FAMILY DENTISTRY Larry Porteous D.D.S. Larry Porteous 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 Teeth Whitening practice the BayArea. Area. Our Teeth Whitening Teeth Whitening Our practice is dedicated for new patients (reg $450) Our practice is dedicated for new patients (reg $450) Our practice is dedicated to treating for new patients for (regnew $450) patients (reg $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 totogive person 3840Blackhawk Blackhawk Road 3840 Road 3840 Road giveeach each personBlackhawk philosophy tophilosophy give each person Suite 110 the same respect, care and concern the same respect, care and Suite 110 the same respect, care respect, and the same care and Suite 110 Suite 110 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 BlackhawkAcross Rd. Blackhawk receive as areceive patient. 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 smile or just have questions in improving your smile or justor in improving in your smile or just improving your smile or just have or concerns, concerns, please call our office. We have questions orquestions concerns, have questions or concerns, ourlook office. We look pleaseforward call please our office. We look tocall 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
Experience the “Total Homecare Services Program” provided exclusively by
America’s Choice in Home Care • Personal Care • Medication Reminders • Meal Preparation • Light Housekeeping • Bathing Assistance • Errands and Shopping • Alzheimer/Dementia Care • Care Management and Technology Services • Immediate Response • Employee Based • Screened, Bonded, Insured • On Call Staff 24/7 • Flexible Schedules
(925) 552-6500 www.jmhomecare.com Call today for your Complimentary, No Obligation Assessment by a Licensed Nurse CA HCO #074700004
bsite
valleysentinel.com page 10 The Valley SenTinel
February 2017
Award-Winning Citizens Academy Raises Awareness about Wastewater Treatment, Public Governance, and Recycled Water Ask anyone what they think about their sewer service, and they will likely say that as long as their toilet flushes, they have nothing to think about. But for those who wonder what happens after that waste disappears from view, the Central Contra Costa Sanitary District (Central San) invites you to attend their Citizens Academy, which provides a free, behind-the-scenes look at a core service that
seldom sees the spotlight: wastewater treatment. Participants in the Academy learn how Central San operates as a government agency; how it is increasing recycled water use throughout central Contra Costa County; and how it cleans wastewater using biology, chemistry, engineering, and technology. They also tour its treatment plant, laboratory, recycled water fill station, and household
Live Happy Paper Crafts
Tap into your creative side this new year! Browse our fine paper crafting products, join one of our crafting classes or plan your next group event with us.
Live Happy and join us!
355 Hartz Ave. Danville, Ca 94526 925 553-7418
livehappypapercrafts.com
hazardous waste collection facility. “Central San Academy demystifies the nature of the services we provide and explains how and why we invest the money our customers pay for those services,” said Roger Bailey, Central San’s General Manager. “We describe what we do, how we recover resources, and how we keep costs down. No one comes out of the Academy saying they don’t know what Central San does, or why they have to pay for our services.” The Central San Academy earned the Exceptional Public Outreach & Advocacy Award from the California Special Districts Association in 2016. The Academy is FREE, but interested individuals must apply. Classes will be held one evening each week from April 4 to May 9, 2017 (except for a daytime tour on April 25) at Central San headquarters, 5019 Imhoff Place in Martinez. Participants must be 18 or older. Apply now – space is limited! For more information and to apply, please go to CentralSan.org/Academy.
2017 Annual Sentinels Gala March 11, 2017 Blackhawk Automotive Museum Danville, CA Each year Sentinels of Freedom recognizes the magnificent work our military performs at our nation’s call by honoring one specific branch of the armed forces. At our 2017 Gala, we are honoring the United States Coast Guard and its Sailors for over 226 years of amazing Air, Sea and Land service to our nation. This year we will be joined by guest of honor, Admiral Paul Zukunft, US Coast Guard. Please join us in celebrating the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country.
If you are interested in attending or sponsoring the event, please visit
www.sentinelsoffreedom.org/gala2017
The Valley SenTinel page 10 valleysentinel.com
Local student’s poem selected for national publication Miss Sarah Ahmed Siddiqui of San Ramon has had her poetry entry in the National High School Poetry Contest accepted for publication. The poem entitled, “My Hijab” appeared in the recently published Winter edition of the American High School Poets “Of Faith and Inspiration” anthology. “Of Faith and Inspiration” is a meaningful study of inspirational and faith based poetry written by teenagers from all over the country. It explores how today’s teens approach matters of faith, hope, religion, and nature. It is a quarterly publication and is published by the Live Poets Society of NJ in conjunction with JUST POETRY!!!, the National High School Poetry Quarterly Magazine. Sarah is the daughter of Asif and Lubna Siddiqui and attends Dougherty Valley High School under the tutelage of language arts instructor Jill Wharton. Sarah is planning to attend a four year college in Northern California. Live Poets Society of NJ website: www. highschoolpoetrycontest.com Just Poetry website www. justpoetry.org Phone: 925-216-6075
My Hijab By Sarah Siddiqui, Dougherty Valley High School People look at me with admiration, As I alter beauty’s definition, Silk, cotton, pashmina, chiffon, and more, Multiple options and styles galore, Perceived as a symbol of oppression, When it is a freedom of expression, Dear Muslimah you may think you’re alone, But the hijab’s a gift that must be shown, To the world, you are an inspiration, Modesty underscores your perfection, It’s been four years since I wore the hijab, Judge me by what’s in my head, not on it.
Volunteer or Donate for Those without Shelter It was that sad situation
There is a wonderful volunteer opportunity to help a nonprofit with its Cold Weather Clothing Program so that homeless people in our county don’t suffer from the winter cold. White Pony Express (WPE), a nonprofit based in Pleasant Hill, has launched its 2016-17 Cold Weather Clothing Program for the cold winter months. The program has already distributed 4,000 items of new or like-new clothing-coats, pants, shirts, socks, hats, gloves, scarves, underwear and boots-given for free to people without shelter. Your help is needed to continue this vital program throughout the winter, with many types of supervised and enjoyable volunteer activities available. The Cold Weather Clothing Program originated last winter when two homeless men, John Dulik and Todd Cambra, died from exposure in Walnut Creek.
that spurred the White Pony Express founder, Dr. Carol Weyland Conner, to ask that warm clothing be obtained and provided to the homeless to enable them to endure cold winter nights. So now it is a WPE winter tradition. For more details, please see WPE’s flyer here. If you can’t volunteer, please consider donating new or like-new articles of warm clothing either individually, or as a group project. These can be delivered to WPE’s facility at 3380 Vincent Road, Pleasant Hill, at the times listed here. Monetary donations of any amount for the purchase of clothing for this program are also very welcome and enable WPE to buy needed clothing items at bulk purchase prices. Interested volunteers can contact Mandy Nakaya at 925-818-6361, email her at mandy@ whiteponyexpress.org or visit whiteponyexpress.org.
valleysentinel.com
February 2017 Sponsored Content
Can I retire in 2017? By Robert Cucchiaro
Last week I sat down with a couple that I’ve been working with for almost exactly 10 years, and helped them set a retirement date – November 1st 2017. Now this was not the 1st time we had discussed this being the date, in fact it’s the same date we talked about 10 years ago and have been throwing around ever since then. The symbolic reason being that is the day my client, Jim turns 70. Jim is COO of a hospital and despite his solid income and frugal ways, he always found it hard to believe that he would have enough to retire by his 70th birthday. You see, Jim’s mom is still alive and kicking at 96 years old and this has Jim convinced that his retirement funds need to last 30+ years. In January of 2007 I met Jim & Mary for the 1st time. They had been referred to me by their CPA and said they wanted to come in and just ask me a few questions about their respective retirement plans at work. Our conversation quickly moved beyond those retirement accounts as I could see what they really wanted was a Financial Game Plan. While their retirement plans at work were great, they were really just a piece of the overall puzzle. Jim & Mary are both very smart and asked great questions, like when should RABBIT from page 1 Black-tailed Jackrabbits feed on a variety of herbs and grasses, as well as cultivated crops. They forage for food in the early morning and evening. Mesquite, cacti, and other shrubs are browsed on during the fall and winter. The jackrabbits appendix serves as a predigesting chamber to start breaking down this tough vegetation. Two types of pellet-like scats are produced. The first is a soft, moist sphere, which is consumed, as it is high in protein and B vitamins that are formed by bacteria in the intestines. The second is a dry, fibrous dropping composed of compacted plant material which is diagnostic and deposited wherever they happen to
they take social security, and which pension option should they take, and what about their taxes, and their estate plan? And what about the costs of long-term care? Mary had seen firsthand the impact a long-term care illness can have as it essentially wiped out her mother’s savings and any inheritance she might have received; she wasn’t going to do that to her kids. Though Jim & Mary were already in a better financial position than most when we met, they wanted a 10 year game plan that we could all wrap our arms around. My job was to work with them to develop that plan, help them implement the plan, and then meet with them each year to review the plan and make sure they were still on track. By the end of the 1st year the plan was in place; accounts had been established, investments repositioned and insurance in place. Then the market crashed. 2008 hit everyone hard and I was concerned that it would give Jim & Mary cause for panic and a reason to deviate from their plan. But fortunately I was wrong. They told me that in the past, any market hiccup would send them running for cover; but this time was different. I had shifted their mindset to think in terms of the next 10 years, not the next 1-2 years and they felt confident that over the long-term, their investments would more than recover (and they were right). be. Jackrabbits rarely have to drink, as they get most of their water as a metabolic by-product from the plants they eat. Fifteen jackrabbits can eat as much as one fullgrown cow in a day. The Black-tailed Jackrabbit, like other hares and rabbits, have an amazing reproductive rate. It is an adaption to being preyed upon by so many predators. Coyotes, mountain lions, bobcats, foxes, hawks, owls, eagles, and snakes are a few of their common predators. Native Americans and early settlers consumed them as well. Black-tailed Jackrabbits have as many as six litters each year with as many as eight young per litter. The female will give birth in a grassy hollow or shallow depression scratched in the ground after a gestation
Despite all of the ups and downs and the changes that life has thrown at them, they have stuck with the plan. And now I have the honor of showing them that they can retire this year and live comfortably for the rest of their lives. No need to downsize their home or move out of state. No concern about what the 2017 stock market may bring. And the best part of all is that with their retirement comes a new game plan, one that includes vacations, time with the grandkids, and volunteer work. You may have some investment accounts and insurance policies that you’ve set up over the years, but do you have a Financial Game Plan? Now is the time to establish your 10 year plan and Summit Wealth & Retirement can help. 925-9271900 or rob@swrpteam.com Robert Cucchiaro is a Certified Financial Planner and owner of Summit Wealth & Retirement, a financial planning firm that has been serving Danville for over 30 years. Rob specializes in helping people reduce their tax bills, enjoy a comfortable retirement, and pass along wealth to their loved ones. www. summitwealthandretirement. com
period of 41-47 days. The young can begin to forage on their own within two weeks. They are living on their own in a month, and having their own young by eight months of age. Blacktailed Jackrabbit populations experience drastic fluctuations every three to ten years. When a population exceeds the carrying capacity for the habitat, nearly 90 percent of the jackrabbits may perish due to food shortages, an increase in predators, or disease such as Tularemia. Their numbers recover quickly due to their prolific breeding. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant based in Contra Costa County. Please check out his website at www. dochale.com
The valley Sentinel MLK AWARDS from page 1 Diablo’s Paige Godvin—Student Humanitarian of the Year During the January 2017 event, Monte Vista High senior Paige Godvin was named Student Humanitarian of the Year, and thanked her family and friends for their support. Paige Godvin is clearly an outstanding student in class and out. The Monte Vista High School Senior was nominated by her physics teacher. At Monte Vista, she has taken on a wide variety of philanthropic roles, serving in the Red Cross Clue, the Blind Babies Awareness Foundation Club, and the Monte Vista Medical Club. Those roles have to be carefully juggled with a heavy academic load, a decade of involvement in a competitive dance team and enough practice to land a Certificate of Merit award as a pianist. It is her commitment to the community outside of her school that continues to touch the hearts of so many people such as her service as a leader of the Middle School youth group and a teacher of Sunday School curriculum at her church. An avid photographer and creator of her own photography business, Paige Godvin Photography, she volunteers her services to both local groups and charitable organizations such as NephCure Kidney International and the Monte Vista High School dance program. She also uses her talent to support Flashes of Hope, a foundation that provides free professional photography to families who have a child with cancer, and has helped photograph more than 30 families to date. Because of the profound impact Flashes of Hope has made on her, Paige plans to pursue a medical degree after college and become a pediatric oncologist, continuing to focus her energy in making the lives of children healthier and happier Alamo’s James Noe —Humanitarian of the Year Ask anyone who knows James (Jim) Noe about what motivates him, and you won’t hear about his business
page 11
success. You’ll hear echoes of his passion to quietly but effectively help provide food, clothing and financial assistance to people in need throughout Contra Costa County. This year James Noe was recognized as 2017 Humanitarian of the Year. Jim Noe had a long and successful career after graduating from Purdue University with a degree in Economics in 1960. He gathered an MBA and additional education along the way. He served our Country honorably as a Supply Officer in the Navy as a Lieutenant Junior Grade, serving on the U.S.S. Zelima and at the Alameda Naval Air Station. He worked in banking and real estate finance for years, retiring in 2006. Upon retirement, Jim threw himself into yet another full time world of volunteering, serving as a board member and later Board President at Shelter Inc. He launched the highly successful “Swing for Shelter” golf tournament to raise much needed funding. Through the Society of St. Vincent de Paul of Contra Costa County, Jim used his time and resources, both financial and skills-based, to identify needs in the community and find ways to have them met. The St. Vincent Family Resource Center in Pittsburg, and the nearby medical clinic sees 1,500 patients each year. Jim was the anchor for efforts to develop those much needed facilities based the need to provide those services. With his tireless support, the St. Vincent de Paul Dining Room partners with Loaves & Fishes now to provide more than 120 meals per day, more than 31,000 meals per year. Some people look at retirement as a time to slow down and reflect upon the past. That’s not Jim Noe. He is probably the least comfortable with being showered with praise, but Contra Costa County is lucky to have Jim continuing his service to the community, living his life in the spirit of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
Vintage Jewelry Bridal jewelry and gifts for all occasions www.etsy.com/shop/vintagejewelryetal (Local seller)
Enter BHGVS15
for 15% off your purchase
COMMUNITY CALENDAR
February
•
February
•
February
•
February
•
February
•
February
For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com COMMUNITY EVENTS February 8 2017 Hearts & Flowers Luncheon 11am-1pm. Friends of the Blackhawk Museums, 3700 Blackhawk Plaza Circle, Danville presents the annual Hearts & Flowers Luncheon starting at 11am for Social Hour & Raffle Item Viewing with lunch at 12pm by Scott’s Catering. Cost: $40 per person. Mail your check to: Barbara Wilson, 4142 Quail Run Drive, Danville, CA 94506 or call 925-736-4064 or email: bkwilso@pacbell.net Live! From the Library: “Coco Chanel, Marlene Dietrich and the Power of Fame” with C.W. Gortner 7-8:30pm. Bestselling author C.W. Gortner will present a fascinating look at two heroines in his historical novels: fashion designer Coco Chanel and movie star Marlene Dietrich. His presentation will look at how the women reacted to changing mores of their times, the pursuit and price of fame, and their individual reactions to the perils of World War II. Free program is sponsored by the Walnut Creek Library Foundation. RSVP online at www.wclibrary.org/live or call (925) 935-5395. February 10 Love2ShopLocal 4-8pm. Join in a pre-Valentine’s downtown Danville business stroll, Friday Night Social, Valentine card Exchange and gift card raffle…as a Shop local and “Why I love Danville” postcard promotion. This all in the historic Danville downtown area, plus continuing on Saturday February 11 10am staged at the Museum of the SRV for Farmer’s Market as long as the goodies last. Learn more about the Town of Danville’s ”Why I Love Danville” postcards from your Danville area Chamber of Commerce at (925) 837-4000. FOR SHOPPERS: The Valentine strolling Map will include a raffle drawing for over $800 in diverse Discover Danville business gift cards. Our customers earn a chance to win prizes for every three businesses they visit. Help us spread the love. February 11 Danville’s 8th Annual Recreation Expo 10am-1pm. Danville area residents are encouraged to attend the Town of Danville’s 8th Annual Recreation Expo which will be held February 11, 2017 at the Danville Community Center. Danville Community Center located at 420 Front Street. For more information, contact the Danville Community Center at (925) 314-3400 or recreation@ danville.ca.gov February 13 Tip$ for Change Dinner Seatings at 5pm and 8pm The AAUW-San Ramon Branch is participating in an exciting event called Tip$ For Change. Family, friends, and neighbors are all invited to a no-host dinner at Gianni’s Italian Bistro in San Ramon. Volunteers of AAUW will be your servers for the evening with all tips and 10% of sales going to support scholarships for six middle school girls in San Ramon to attend Tech Trek, a week-long science and math camp at Sonoma State University this coming June. Gianni’s is located at 2065 San Ramon Valley Blvd. San Ramon. Reservations: 925-820-6969 February 17 Annual Kiwanis Club Crab Feed 6pm. The Kiwanis Club of the San Ramon Valley will be holding its annual Crab Feed as a fund-raiser at the Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Rd, Danville on Friday 17th February, 2017 at 6 pm., For unlimited crab suppers paid in advance, the costs are: $50 per adult, children aged 12-16, $25 and under are 12, Free. When purchased at the door, $60 and $35, with children under 12 again free. A raffle and cash bar will also take place. Details about advance ticket purchase at our web site, http://www.srvkiwanis.org. Our Kiwanis Club organizes the Kiwanis 4th of July Parade in Danville, conducts an annual Grants Program for area non-profits, undertakes Community Service Projects in the Tri-Valley area, as well as an annual Food Drive for the Contra Costa Food Bank. February 23 Scholarship Bridge Luncheon Fundraiser 11:30am. $80 a table or $20 per person Please contact Mary at (925) 837-3860 or email danvillewc@gmail.com February 25 Texas Hold ‘Em Fundraiser supporting Meals on Wheels 6-11pm. Please help us spread the word. Registration is ready to go – tickets can be purchased today at http://mowsos.org/event/ poker/ If you’ve never been to a poker tournament fundraiser, let us tell you, it is super fun! You don’t have to know how to play, it’s easy to pick up. Must be 21+. To be held at The Danville Grange, located at 743 Diablo Road, Danville. $85 per person includes buy-in, full BBQ dinner from Andy’s BBQ and one drink ticket. Meals on Wheels
and Senior Outreach Services. Contact Susannah Meyer by email at smeyer@mowsos.org 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. Danville Farmer’s Market Every Saturday, Year-round 9am-1pm. Get the freshest seasonal fare at the Danville Certified Farmers’ Market. Railroad & Prospect Avenue, Danville. Information: www.ci.danville.ca.us. (You can make donations of fresh vegetables and fruit for our local food pantries at the Loaves & Fishes Booth at the Danville Farmers Market.) San Ramon Farmers Market Every Saturday & Thursday-Year-round 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, SanRamon. 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 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 8:45 am 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: 925-314-3400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/ Senior_Hiking. San Ramon Seniors The following events are held at the Alcosta Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon, unless otherwise noted. For more information call 925-973-3250 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov/ parks/programs/ages55+.htm. Wisdom Wednesdays: 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: 925973-3250. 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: 973-3250. Wednesday Morning Hikes (time and location varies) Join the San Ramon Trailblazers if you are interested in meeting new people, enjoying the outdoors, having fun and getting in shape. The group meets once a week at 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. 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.
BUSINESS
February 9th Danville Chamber Monthly After Hours Mixer: 5:30-7pm. Chamber Members $5. Guests $10. ProFormance Pilates – FREE. ProFormance Pilates, 201 Sycamore Valley Road West, Danville February 21 Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening - The Vintage Restaurant at Crow Canyon Country Club 4:30 - 6:00pm. Please join The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce for a Ribbon Cutting and Grand Opening Celebration at the new Vintage Restaurant in Danville at the Crow Canyon Country Club. The Vintage Restaurant at the Crow Canyon Country Club, located at 711 Silver Lake Drive, Danville. For more information call Kathy Fanning at the San Ramon Chamber of Commerce at 925-242-0600 or email her at kathy.fanning@sanramon.org February 23 Walnut Creek Chamber B.A.S.H. 5:30-7:pm. February BASH Hosted by the Assistance League of Diablo Valley, located at 2711 Buena Vista Avenue, Walnut Creek, CA 94597. This event is FREE to all Walnut Creek Chamber Members; please remember to bring your business card. Non-member admission is $10.00 [cash only] and a business card. See you there! For more information call 925-934-2007. 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 – The Business Connection 2nd and 4th Mondays of each month 11:30 am – 12:30 pm. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Partners for Suc-
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 cess 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-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. 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.
February 2017 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 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. Take Off Pounds Sensibly (TOPS) Meeting 8-10am. Every Tuesday. This Weight Loss Support Group provides a space for those who wish to lose weight. St. Timothy’s, 1550 Diablo Rd. 925-8387870.
net or for more information please call us at (925) 933-0107 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. 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 925-787-2565 truman.howard@gmail.com
San Ramon Valley Geneological Society 10am. Meets every third Tuesday at the LDS Church, 2949 Stone Valley Road, Alamo. http://srvgensoc.org
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
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 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.
Walnut Creek Kiwanis Club 12:10-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Massimo’s Ristorante, 1604 Locust Street, Walnut Creek. Information: kiwanisofwalnutcreek.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.
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. Couples & Cancer Tuesdays from 6–8 pm With Ron Ellis, PhD, psychologist and CSC facilitator. In this monthly program, the focus is on helping relationships through the stress of cancer. The topics are: “Are We Living?” and “What Is Our Greatest Need?” Cancer Support Community visit www.cancersupportcommunity.
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. For a nominal charge, attendees get lunch, a guest speaker and the opportunity to socialize with at least 150 other retirees from the San Ramon Valley. 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. 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.
The Valley SenTinel Veterans of Foreign Wars 7pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. Veterans Memorial Hall, 400 Hartz Avenue, Danville. Information: Post Commander Ernie Petagara at 925-362-9806 or vfwpost75.org. Diablo Singles Dance Club 7-10pm. Meets the last Wednesday of every month. Live music, refreshments. Members $8, Guests $12. All welcome. 111N. Wiget Lane, Walnut Creek. Thursdays: Danville Women’s Club 11am – 1pm. Meets third Thursdays of each month. November 17, Socializing begins at 11 a.m., with lunch following at 11:30, and a guest speaker from TroopsDirect at noon. 11-1, 242 Linda Mesa. Call Karen at 925-831-9237 for reservation. 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. 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, 2491 San Miguel Drive, W alnut Creek. Information: 925736-8627. 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.
page 13
Parkinson’s Disease Support Group 9am-12pm. Meets every 3rd Saturday. Join us to share, laugh, and learn from each other. Grace Presbyterian Church, 2100 Tice Valley Blvd., Walnut Creek. Contact Gregg Riehl at (925) 254-8349 or jgriehl@gmail.com. Free. All are welcome. Information: Howard Zalkin at 939-4210 or Ronnie Wanetick at 933-6357. 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
Classifieds HELP WANTED IT Application Engineer II: BS in EE, CS, or rltd. & 5 yrs. rltd. exp. Bank of the West. Job in San Ramon, CA 94583. CV to careers@ bankofthewest.com. ETL Developer: MS in Sftwr Engr, Comp Engr, or rltd. & 5 yrs. rltd. exp. Bank of the West. Job in San Ramon, CA 94583. CV to careers@ bankofthewest.com. Sr. Business Analyst: Bach. in Comp. Eng. or rltd. & 5 yrs. rltd. exp. Bank of the West. Job in San Ramon, CA 94583. CV to careers@ bankofthewest.com. Liquidity Risk Project Mgr.: Master’s in Bus. Admin., Finance or rltd. & 3 yr. rltd. exp. CV to: Bank of the West, 2527 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583. ATTN: H.R. or email careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA. IT QA Analyst: MS in C.S., Engineering or rltd. & 2 yr. rltd. exp. CV to: Bank of the West, 2527 Camino Ramon, San Ramon, CA 94583. ATTN: H.R. or email careers@bankofthewest.com. EEO. Position in San Ramon, CA. Application Data Architect: Bachelor in Computer Engineering, Information Technology or rltd. & 7 yrs. rltd. exp. CV to Bank of the West, careers@bankofthewest.com. Job in San Ramon, CA.
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
925-820-6047
542 San Ramon Valley Blvd., #A Danville, CA 94526
www.valleysentinel.com
page 14
The Valley SenTinel
AUTO
2016 Fiat 500 Abarth By David and Judy Colman
For the sheer joy of driving, Fiat’s 500 Abarth is unmatched. With a price under $30,000, it’s something of an economic miracle. Even though our bright “Celeste Blu” test car had its bottom line elevated by $5,375 worth of options, this storming gnat’s total price amounted to just $28,945. You would be hard pressed to have more automotive fun for that kind of money. The basic 500 model is a cute, diminutive reimagining of the post-war Fiat that dominated Italian highways 60 years ago. That little package provided affordable, unpretentious transportation for a war ravaged country. Today, the 500 is still affordable and unassuming. But in a world full of beastly looking, complicated cars, the 500’s major attraction remains its endearing small size and simplicity of design. In many ways, it has taken from VW the mantle of “people’s car”
that the Beetle once owned. But the 500, in base form, is a lethargic performer, with just enough grunt (101hp) to manage freeway merges without embarrassment. Enter the Abarth option. Plumb a turbo onto the basic 1.4 liter engine, add a 16 valve “MultiAir” head, and you’ve got yourself an entirely different proposition than the base 500. The Abarth, named after famed Italian racer Carlo Abarth, ups output by 60 percent, to 160hp. That much extra thrust transforms the lethargic base 500 into a superlative little pocket rocket. Once ensconced in the very supportive racing striped sports seat, you’ll find the fat rimmed, leatherwrapped steering wheel and the leather covered, ball-topped shift knob right where you need them for precise control. Because the shift knob is so close to the rim of the wheel, there’s no need for paddles
March 2009 February 2017
here. Just position the stick of the optional ($1,350) Aisin 6-speed heavy duty automatic in its manual control gate and bump the shifter forward for downshifts and backwards for upshifts. This system works flawlessly. Its ease of use far surpasses wheel mounted paddles you have to chase through 360 degrees while turning and shifting. The weight of the steering is halfway between power assist and no assist at all. In other words it’s as close to perfect as you can find in today’s over-boosted marketplace. Expensive sports offerings from BMW and Porsche offer multiple “sport” settings to alter steering feedback. I have yet to experience one of them that can match this Abarth for positive information. The Abarth offers no such array of steering options because it doesn’t need any. It’s perfect the way it comes from the factory where it’s built in Toluca, Mexico. Equally responsible for the precise road feel are the 6.5” x
valleysentinel.com
16” alloy rims shod with topof-the-line Pirelli P Zero Nero rubber (195/45R16). These super sticky tires hang on without so much as a squeal of protest even when the Abarth’s firm suspension is at maximum tilt. Driving this petite 2,415 pound warrior on twisty sections of road is a delightful throwback to a time when cars weighed nothing compared to today. If you are interested in experiencing go-kart handling the Abarth is the ride you’ll cherish. Back in the day, the first thing enthusiasts did to a new sports car was install an Abarth exhaust system. Although pricey, these beautifully finished black crackle pipes invariably made your new ride sound like a Formula 1 machine. We are happy to report that the mellifluous Abarth sound has not been lost in this latest incarnation from Fiat. The sound level here varies from a harmonious blat at cruising speed to a stridently purposeful shriek at full throttle. In the unlikely event that bystanders miss this patented Abarth mating
call, they will be sure to take notice of this punk rocker’s unmistakable visual symphony. No fewer than a dozen Abarth scorpion emblems decorate the body and interior surfaces, and a pair of laser striped Abarth nameplates are emblazoned along the flanks. In a final touch of self celebration the “Abarth” name flashes digitally across the instrument pod every time you start or stop this beguiling little devil. 2016 FIAT 500 ABARTH ENGINE: 1.4 liter inline 4, 16 valve MultiAir Turbo HORSEPOWER: 160hp TORQUE: 183lb.-ft. FUEL CONSUMPTION: 24MPG City/32 MPG Highway PRICE AS TESTED: $28,945 HYPES: Street Legal GoKart GRIPES: Poor Rating in IIHS Small Overlap Crash Test STAR RATING: 10 Stars out of 10
DIABLO MOTORS
Auto Sales • Service • Detailing Valentine Specials! $199 WINTERIZE SPECIAL! Includes: - Oil Service with synthetic oil - Name brand OEM oil filter - Winter inspection of all fluids - Replace wiper blades - Inspect brakes and tires Good through 2/28/17
$34,900
$37,900
2016 Jeep Grand Cherokee Limited 4x4
2016 BMW 428i Hardtop Convertible
VIN: 1C4RJFBG7GC324668
VIN: WBA3V7C55G5A25617
$299 DETAIL SPECIAL! Includes: - Interior and exterior cleaning - Clay bar and wax exterior - Detail engine compartment Larger/Dirtier vehicles extra Good through 2/28/17
Call (925) 830-8747 for an appointment today! (Loaner vehicle available)
$28,900
$34,900 2014 Lexus RX350 AWD
2013 BMW 335i Sedan
VIN: 2T2BK1BA7EC236264
VIN: WBA3A9G50DNP36507
2067 San Ramon Valley Blvd, San Ramon (925) 830-8747 • www.diablomotors.com
valleysentinel.com
February 2017
The Valley SenTinel
page 15
San Ramon Valley School District Superintendent’s Message By Rich Schmitt, SRVUSD Superintendent
The San Ramon Valley Unified School District celebrates the commitment of its community to providing modern, well-maintained schools where students, staff and parents feel welcome and learning flourishes. This takes place thanks to the commitment of the Board of Education, community and staff to maximizing our voter-approved facilities bond funds and identifying other revenue sources to fund projects that will impact generations to come. Since voters approved the $260 million Measure D facilities bond in 2012, the San Ramon Valley Unified School District has delivered on its promise to our community to provide 21st century teaching and learning environments. The majority of the projects funded through Measure D are complete, in-progress or are in the planning stages. The San Ramon Valley Unified School District appreciates our community’s investment in public education and its infrastructure. Thanks to this commitment from our community, we have built a new elementary school, are modernizing or renovating 10 of our existing schools and are ensuring that schools throughout the District have the capacity to meet current and future enrollment needs. Masure D Projects Stone Valley Middle School Renovation Two of Measure D’s largest and most complex projects are taking place right now at Stone Valley Middle and San Ramon Valley High schools. At Stone Valley, a new two-story classroom building is being built to replace aging facilities. The new structure will include modern science labs and flexible-use classrooms. A second new building will house a multipurpose room with a kitchen, cafeteria and
a music room. Scheduled to be completed in the spring of 2018, the project will include increased access to technology and a quad where students can gather in a safe environment with better supervision. In addition, the San Ramon Valley High School campus will be transformed thanks to a new 52 classroom, three-story academic building. The building design will free-up square footage on the campus, allowing for a larger campus quad, improved lines-of-sight for supervision and additional parking. The renovation is expected to be complete by the start of the 2019-20 school year. San Ramon Valley High School New Classroom Building Other Measure D projects underway include a modernization of the California High School science classrooms and the ongoing district-wide work to meet Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements and to replace, upgrade and install security cameras and technology infrastructure. Over $55 million in modernization projects are in the needs assessment and design stages at Charlotte Wood Middle, Golden View Elementary, Green Valley Elementary, Montevideo Elementary, Rancho Romero Elementary, Sycamore Valley Elementary, Twin Creeks Elementary and Vista Grande Elementary schools. In the coming months, additional information will be shared with these individual school communities as the plans progress. Bella Vista Elementary School Thanks to the hard work of many people, we have already completed several large Measure D projects. Most notably, our 36th, and possibly final school, was built and opened this year with about 530 students–Bella Vista Elementary in the Dougherty Valley. The new school can accommodate approximately 830 transitional kindergarten through 5th grade students,
EBRPD acquires land In 2016, the East Bay Regional Park District purchased or leased 1,040 acres of open space and parklands for a year-end
total of 120,931 acres – and optioned another 364.95 acres. In doing so, EBRPD continues its commitment to protect significant biological,
and is situated on a 7.4 acre site. This school was made possible thanks to a unique three-way partnership between the District, the City of San Ramon and Shapell Homes (now Toll Brothers). Shapell Homes and the City of San Ramon provided the land to the School District, with the play fields also serving as permanent joint-use parkland for the City. This partnership is yet another example of the excellent joint-use cooperation and sharing that we have with both the City of San Ramon and the Town of Danville in order to provide excellent facilities for both our schools and our community members. Another step we made to accommodate the final growth in the Dougherty Valley was the completion of a classroom building addition at Dougherty Valley High School. The new building includes a special Green Technology and Alternative Energy classroom, eight science labs and three flexible-use classrooms. In addition to these two projects, there have been classrooms added at Dougherty Valley High School, Windemere Ranch Middle School, and Gale Ranch Middle School that will assist in accommodating a temporary “enrollment bubble” of students currently matriculating through the Dougherty Valley. Across the District, including in the Dougherty Valley, enrollment is projected to level-off, trending downwards to a decline in the near future. Monte Vista High School Bleachers Other completed projects include stadium and bleacher replacements at Monte Vista High School, California High School and San Ramon Valley High School; the renovation and expansion of Twin Creeks Elementary and seismic and safety work at Monte Vista High and Walt Disney Elementary. Solar Projects In addition, to our work with Measure D funds, through the use of Quality School Construction Bonds
recreational, and historic resources; clean up park boundaries; and provide public access and trail connections throughout the Park District.
and Clean Renewable Energy Bonds we have installed solar panels that generate over 6.5 megawatts at peak production across the district. These near zero interest bonds are paid back through the solar energy savings over the first 15-17 years after which time, the District will see ongoing savings in the millions of dollars every year. The first generation of our solar panels at six schools was followed this summer by a second set of these systems at 12 additional schools. This summer, we will complete the second stage of the solar project at the last three sites. Passage of Proposition 51 State Bond We are also anticipating that we will receive additional funds from the state following the passage of Proposition 51 in the November. From the State of California’s $9 billion bond program, SRVUSD expects to receive approximately $22 million in funding for
previous facilities projects, as well as the potential of an additional $20 million for future projects. Those funds will be used to complete projects that will not be funded by Measure D. We are fortunate to have dedicated volunteers on the Facilities Oversight and Advisory Committee who are responsible for reviewing Measure D facilities projects and expenditures. We are committed to transparency and have a website dedicated to the bond projects at www.builddsrvschools.org where you can find more information. Communities are never more vibrant and successful than when they invest in public education and infrastructure. None of this happens without the support and partnership of our community who believe in creating environments where students feel welcome and supported. Together, we are making a difference for generations to come.
Want a Lift
without Surgery?
Reclaim youth with • Nova Thread Lift • Liquid Face-Lift • Micro-Fractional CO2 Laser Skin Resurfacing w/ Erbium √ √ √ √
Safe, in-office procedures Convenient appointments Minimal down-time Gift Cards Available
Schedule with Shiva for your customized enhancement treatment!
CALL TODAY 925-743-1488
valleysentinel.com page 16 The Valley SenTinel
February 2017
The Valley SenTinel page 16 valleysentinel.com
2017 Annual Sentinels Gala March 11, 2017 Blackhawk Automotive Museum Danville, CA Each year Sentinels of Freedom recognizes the magnificent work our military performs at our nation’s call by honoring one specific branch of the armed forces. At our 2017 Gala, we are honoring the United States Coast Guard and its Sailors for over 226 years of amazing Air, Sea and Land service to our nation. This year we will be joined by guest of honor, Admiral Paul Zukunft, US Coast Guard.
Please join us in celebrating the brave men and women who have sacrificed so much for our country.
Admiral Paul Zukunft assumed the duties of the 25th Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard on May 30, 2014. He leads the largest component of the Department of Homeland Security, composed of 88,000 personnel including active duty, reserve, civilian and volunteer Auxiliarists.
If you are interested in attending or sponsoring the event, please visit
www.sentinelsoffreedom.org/gala2017
DANVILLE
1901 Camino Ramon 925-866-6164
CAMPBELL 408-871-8890 CORTE MADERA 415-924-6691 MOUNTAIN VIEW 650-964-7212 SAN CARLOS 650-508-8317
TheHomeConsignmentCenter.com