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ge 4 guards • pa s and Jr. Life ge 5 pa • s Swim Lesson tie ni tu ating Oppor Bo g/ in ak ay K page 6 Challenge • ts • page 10 2018 Trails Native Plan ia rn ifo al C of le Sa g rin ge Sp nol • pa 12 Festival at Su Wildflower
Center ile Visitor New Mob page 2. 2018 • See Coming in
2018 Trails Challenge Swim Lessons & Jr. Lifeguards Kayaking/Boating at Various Parks Spring Sale of California Native Plants Wildflower Festival at Sunol Plus many other activities for kids and families in your East Bay Regional Parks!
Robert Chambers, San Ramon Valley High School Graduate, Class of 2017, was sworn in on October 31, 2017 to the United States Air Force and departed to Lackland
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Each year, the East Bay Regional Park District launches its “Trails Challenge” program that features 20 different trails throughout the parks to get people out and enjoying new trails and different venues. This is year 25! A guidebook, t-shirt and commemorative pin for those who complete the challenge is an incentive to get out on the trails. For information, see the article top of page 7.
The Pacific Tree Frog sings for his valentine by James Hale
T h e P a c i f i c Tr e e F r o g (Pseudacris regilla), also known as the Pacific Chorus Frog, ranges from the tip of Baja California, along the west coast through California, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia to extreme southern Alaska. Their range extends eastward into Nevada, Idaho, and Montana. This small frog with a big voice frequents a variety of habitats from sea level to high into the mountains above 11,600 feet. The Pacific Tree Frog may be found in grasslands, woodlands, lakes, ponds, seasonally ponded wetlands, marshes, reservoirs, slow streams, and even roadside ditches, chaparral, and desert oases. They are usually found among low plant growth near water. Since 1986, the taxonomy of the Pacific Tree Frog has undergone a very confusing and
controversial history. Grand choruses of the Pacific Tree Frog may be heard throughout Contra Costa County. Many populations thrive in backyard ponds. The Pacific Tree Frog grows to over two inches from the snout to the urostyle at the tail end. Males are usually smaller, and have a dark gray patch on their throats, the round vocal sac, which stretches out when the males call the females at their breeding sites. A black or dark brown eye stripe that stretches from the nose, across the eye, and back to the shoulder is diagnostic. They may be a variety of different colors, ranging from green, tan, reddish, gray, brown, and cream, to black, with a pale or
white belly. A rare recessive “blue morph” is known. Pacific Tree Frogs are able to change color seasonally to better match their environment. They may change from light color phases to dark phases in a few minutes. Small bumps cover the skin, which may have dark and spotty markings on the back and sides. Long, slender and muscular legs are capable of propelling this little frog great distances for its size. Their toes are long, slightly webbed, and ending in round, sticky pads or discs used for climbing and sticking to surfaces. T h e b re e d i n g s e a s o n f o r t h e Pa c i f i c Tre e Fro g varies according to the local g e o g ra p h i c a l c o n d i t i o n s, however, generally extends
This month’s Special Section:
Senior Services
pages 8-9
from early winter to spring. It begins when the males migrate to the breeding pools and call to lure the females to the water to mate. The Pacific Tree Frog is the most commonly heard frog on the Pacific Coast with its twoparted kreck-ek or ribbit. Hollywood movie producers frequently use its voice for nocturnal background sounds, regardless of location. I’ve See FROGS page 5
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
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The Valley Sentinel
Wild! Art Exhibition Gallery Opening Now - February 24 5:30-7:30pm. The Town of Danville presents Wild!, an art exhibition guest curated by local artist and animal lover Connie English. The Village Theatre and Art Gallery, 233 Front Street, Danville. For more information, contact Visual Arts Coordinator Marija Nelson Bleier at 925-314-3460 or mbleier@danville.ca.gov Center Rep Presents: Red Speedo Now - February 24 Ray’s swum his way to the eve of the Olympic trials. Pressure builds as he confronts the lure of a deal with Speedo, the perils of family and the unforgiving weight of success.
A sharp and compelling play about swimming, survival of the fittest and the American dream of a level playing field—or of leveling the field yourself. Parental advisory warning for mature content. $40 - $56. Center REPertory Company, Lesher Theatre, 1601 Civic Drive in downtown Walnut Creek. Information and tickets: CenterREP.org or 925.943. SHOW (7469). You can also visit the LCA Ticket Office at 1601 Civic Drive or the Ticket Office Outlet at the Downtown Walnut Creek Library. Ro l e P l aye rs E n s e m b l e presents: Animal Farm by George Orwell
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
February 2018 Now - February 18 After years of being held under the power of humans, the animals have driven man from the farm! The pigs, considered the smartest of animals, try to establish a new “egalitarian” social order. Is such a society possible? Orwell spins this cautionary tale for our times, and all times. $20$30. The Village Theatre, 233 Front Street, Danville. Tickets and Information at www. RolePlayersEnsemble.com or 925-820-1278
A Great Frontier Odyssey: Sketching the American West Now - March 18 The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is proud to present a new traveling exhibit documenting the 1873 overland journey of artists Jules Tavernier and Paul Frenzeny. The opening of the West with the Transcontinental Railroad in 1869 coupled with the flood of Americans and immigrants to this new frontier created a clamor for images of the American West. This promoted the leading publication of its day Harper Magazine to send two artist west to provide images of the West. Pa u l F r e n z e n y w a s one of the leading “special correspondents” of his time and had become the illustrator of choice for western adventure stories and novels such as the Jungle Book. His cohort Jules Tavernier was a celebrated French painter. Their paintings helped to shape the view of the new emerging West to America. The Museum of the San Ramon Valley is open Tuesday to Friday 1-4 Saturday 10-1 and Sunday 12-3. It is located at 205 Railroad Ave., Danville. For Information please visit the website at museumsrv.org or call 925-837-3750. Lamplighters Music Theatre presents: The Gondoliers by Gilbert and Sullivan February 9 - 11 Due to a mix-up during infancy, a pair of handsome Venetian gondoliers have suddenly become kings! Their brand new wives aren’t so pleased though, once they
find out that the rightful king is also married by proxy to Casilda, the daughter of the Duke and Duchess of Plaza Toro! Only one pair can be the rightful rulers but until the identity of the true monarch can be established, the boys must share the royal duties. Being idealists, they really don’t mind! In this joyful opera Gilbert ingeniously skewers issues of social equality and the class system with his brilliant wit and groundbreaking lyrics alongside Sullivan’s lovely, lilting score. $25-$54. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: lesherartscenter. showare.com or lamplighters. org/season/season.html or call 925-943-7469.
James Ehnes, violin Presented by Cha mber Music Sa n Francisco with Orion Weiss, piano February 10 2:30pm. Known for his virtuosity and probing musicianship, Ehnes has performed in 35 countries on five continents, appearing regularly in the world’s most prestigious concert halls with many of the top orchestras and conductors. Hailed as “the Jascha Heifetz of our day,” the Grammy-winning Ehnes is acknowledged as one of the world’s finest violinists. $55. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-7469.
Beethoven Mass in C Presented by Diablo Symphony Orchestra February 11 3:30pm. Bay Area composer Jean Ahn’s work based on a Korean farming song starts our journey around the globe, as we explore the caves off the coast of Scotland with Mendelssohn and finish with Beethoven’s Mass in C, written for Prince Esterházy. A gorgeous work that deserves to be heard more often! Music Direction & Conducted by Matilda Hofman. $35. Walnut
valleysentinel.com Creek Presbyterian Church, 1801 Lacassie Ave, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7469.
All Hands On Deck! presented by Turnaround Artists February 16 2pm and 8pm. This show brings you an authentic American roadshow and radio broadcast re-creation circa 1942 filled with heart-warming s o n g s, t i g h t h a r m o n i e s, rousing on-air antics, classic commercials and a sing-along excitement, all accompanied by the warm sounds of the live nine-piece Hollywood Victory Caravan Orchestra! $52.50 - $62.50. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: lesherartscenter.showare.com or lamplighters.org/season/ season.html or call 925-9437469. Dixieland Jazz February 17 1:30-4:30pm. On the 3rd Saturday of every month you can enjoy the music of the Devil Mountain Jazz Band. Bring your own beverages, snacks and a friend or two! There is a large dance floor and lots of free parking. $15. Grange Hall, 743 Diablo Road, Danville. Information visit www.jazznut.com or phone 625-2707.
Chicken, Chitlins and Caviar February 17 2:00 PM. A musical soul food feast that features the celebration of music in the African American culture. Come experience the pepper of Jazz, the seasoning of Classical and the spiritual comfort food of Gospel. Your musical palate will be overwhelmed by the stylings of recording artists April Wright-Hickerson, Doris Bumpus and Verlin Sandles. Musical arrangements by Grammy nominated, Stellar Award winning producer Willis Hickerson, Jr. Be prepared to laugh, cry, rejoice and even sing
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT dining out • music • art • theater • fun events
valleysentinel.com along. Come and be fulfilled and inspired. $40. Walnut Creek Presbyterian Church, 1801 Lacassie Ave, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7469.
One Night Of Queen performed by Gary Mullen and the Works February 17 8pm. Those who don’t believe in reincarnation may want to watch as Gary Mullen and The Works bring their own interpretation of the legendary Queen front man Freddie Mercury to the stage. Fans know Queen classics such as Bohemian Rhapsody, We Will Rock You, Killer Queen and Another One Bites the Dust so well that these tunes are almost rock clichés. The chance to watch the highly talented and respected Gary Mullen bring back those classic memories will be a genuine treat for everyone. $44 - $49. Dougherty Valley Performing Arts Center, located on the Dougherty Valley High School Campus, 10550 Albion Rd., San Ramon. Information: visit www.sanramon.ca.gov/ parks/theater or 925-9733343. Ludwig and Leonard presented by the Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra February 18 The Contra Costa Chamber Orchestra performs the music of Ludwig Von Beethoven and Leonard Bernstein. $30. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7469. Masterworks of the Asian Art Museum of SF February 21 1pm. Don’t miss the special presentation by the Asian American Museum of San Francisco and discover masterworks in the Asian Art Musuem’s collection. This event is sponsored by the Friends of the Danville Library. Mt. Diablo Room of the Danville Library. 400 Front Street, Danville. For more information, contact (925)314-3750.
February 2018 Improv for Good February 23 7 : 4 5 p m . Fu n ny B o n e Productions featuring Act II Improv performs scene based comedy and drama improvisational theater. $15. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7469.
A Tribute to Glenn Miller and Tex Beneke featuring the Tex Beneke Orchestra February 25 2pm. Experience the 14-piece Tex Beneke Orchestra’s dazzling showcase of big band classics from Glenn Miller’s “In The Mood” and “Little Brown Jug” to the timeless swing tunes “Pennsylvania 6-5000” and “Tuxedo Junction.” $47 $59. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925-9437469.
Annie Jr. February 23 - 24 Based on the popular comic strip and adapted from the Tony Award-winning Best Musical, with a beloved book and score by Tony Award-winners, Thomas Meehan, Charles Strouse and Martin Charnin, Annie JR. features everyone’s favorite little redhead in her very first adventure. $20. Del Valle Theatre, 1963 Tice Valley Boulevard, Walnut Creek. Information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7469.
Love for Piano Recital February 25 6:30pm. Piano recital for students age 5 to 65, playing pop, classical, and international music. $25. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www.lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-7469.
I Can Do That Theatre Co. presents The Pajama Game February 23 - March 4 The Pajama Game features Fosse style choreography and classic songs like Hey There, Steam Heat, and Hernando’s Hideaway. It’s 1954 and we are bundled up in the drama of the workers at the Sleeptite Pajama Factory. With a cast of 50 kids, this is sure to be an exciting show for all ages! $20. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400. C o m e To g e t h e r : T h e Beatles Concert Experience February 24 7:30pm. 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. $45. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets a n d i n f o r m a t i o n : w w w. lesherartscenter.org or 925943-7469.
Preschool Performance Series: The Funniest Cowgirl Karen Quest March 2 10am. Making little ones laugh, dance and sing along since 2009, the Town of Danville is pleased to continue this fun series featuring top-level entertainers for preschool-aged children. The 50-minute performances capture their imaginations and make lasting memories. $5?. Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: www. villagetheatreshows.com or 925-314-3400.
The Valley Sentinel
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7469.
Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925-9437469. March Concert presented by Diablo Wind Symphony featuring Youth Performers March 4 7:30pm. The Diablo Wind Symphony Concert performing standard band literature and featuring flute/piccolo soloist Amy Likar. $12. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925-943-
Layers Revealed: Beyond the Brush March 8 - April 21 Reception 5:30pm -7:30pm, March 8. Complimentary refreshments will be served and as always, this family-friendly event is free and open to the public. The exhibit features paintings by 12 bay area women. It is a collection of unique abstract pieces by a local painting group who call themselves, ‘Beyond the Brush.’ Village Theater, 233 Front St., Danville. Information: contact Visual Arts Coordinator Marija Nelson Bleier at 925-314-3460 or
The Alamo Business and Community Foundation invites everyone to a “meet and greet” mixer
Hosted by EXTREME PIZZA 3227 Danville Blvd. , Alamo
February 12
5:30 - 7pm
Hors d’ouvres
Great bites! No-host bar
LET US SAVE YOU!
Come on out and enjoy your Alamo Community!
Power for the People!
FREE SOLAR FAN Dan Ashley presents: Rock the CASA, a Charity Concert featuring Melissa Etheridge March 3 8pm. An Evening of Music for Court Appointed Special Advocates & Friends Of Camp Concord, featuring Melissa Etheridge. $100 - $250. Lesher Center for the Arts, 1601 Civic Drive, Walnut Creek. Tickets and information: www. lesherartscenter.org or 925-9437469. New Day Rising presented by Contra Costa Wind Symphony March 4 2pm. This is a symphony by Steven Reineke commemorating t h e 1 9 0 6 S a n Fra n c i s c o Earthquake. $17. Lesher
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The Valley Sentinel
February 2018 Sponsored Content
Testicular Cancer Awareness Dr. Shoba Kankipati
Te s t i c u l a r c a n c e r i s cancer that develops in the testicles, a part of the male reproductive system. Not all lumps on the testicles are tumors, and not all tumors are malignant (cancerous). There are many other conditions, of the testis, which may be painful but are non-cancerous. A man’s risk of testicular cancer is roughly 1 in 200 (0.5%). It is the most common cancer in males aged 20–39 years, the period when it is most common to start, and is rarely seen before the age of 15 years. The risk of testicular cancer in white men is approximately 4-5 times the risk in black men, and more than three times that of Asian American men. The risk of testicular cancer in Latinos and American Indians is between that of white and Asian men. The cause of these differences is unknown. Testicular cancer has the highest prevalence in the U.S. and Europe, and is uncommon in Asia and Africa. Worldwide incidence has doubled since the 1960s, with the highest rates of prevalence in Scandinavia, Germany, and New Zealand.
A major risk factor for the development of testicular cancer is cryp torchidism (undescended testicles). It is generally believed that the presence of a tumor contributes to cryptorchidism; when cryptorchidism occurs in conjunction with a tumor then the tumor tends to be large. Other risk factors include inguinal hernias, Klinefelter syndrome, and mumps orchitis. One of the first signs of testicular cancer is often a lump or swelling in the testes. Symptoms may include one or more of the following: − A lump in one testis which may or may not be painful − Sharp pain or a dull ache in the lower abdomen or scrotum − A f e e l i n g o f t e n described as “heaviness” in the scrotum The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends against routine screening for testicular cancer in asymptomatic adolescent and adults including routine testicular self-exams However, the American Cancer Society suggests that some men should examine t h e i r t e s t i c l e s m o n t h l y, especially if they have a family history of cancer, and the American Urological
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Association recommends monthly testicular selfexaminations for all young men. Rarely testicular cancer spreads to the lymphnodes, lungs or brain. The three basic types of treatment a r e s u r g e r y, r a d i a t i o n therapy, and chemotherapy. Surgery is performed by
valleysentinel.com urologists; radiation therapy is administered by radiation oncologists; and chemotherapy is the work of medical oncologists. Testicular cancer has one of the highest cure rates of all cancers. In most patients with testicular cancer, the disease is cured readily with minimal long-term morbidity. While treatment success depends on the stage, the average survival rate after five years is around 95%,
and stage 1 cancer cases (if monitored properly) have essentially a 100% survival rate, which is why prompt action, when testicular cancer is a possibility, is extremely important. Dr. Shoba Kankipati is a board certified Medical Oncologist and Hematologist with Epic Care, a group of experts in the diagnosis and comprehensive treatment of cancer and blood disorders. www.epic-care.com
Alamo News Update – Change CFA
to ABCF By Steve Mick
There’s a new name for an old organization in Alamo. The Board of Directors of the Community Foundation of Alamo (CFA) voted to change the name to the Alamo Business and Community Foundation (ABCF). This change recognizes the o rg a n i z a t i o n ’s o n - g o i n g commitment to supporting the Alamo business community. Constant and perceptive readers will recall that the CFA was created when the Alamo Chamber of Commerce merged with the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce. The CFA was chartered to continue the support of Alamo activities. According to the CFA by-laws, “…this corporation is formed to raise funds for events and projects which benefit the Alamo civic or business community; raise funds for distribution of scholarships for deserving students; and/or to raise funds to support specific community service programs and projects.”
The overall mission of the ABCF is to enhance the well-being and quality of life for the businesses and residents of Alamo. The ABCF organized a mixer that took place in December and they plan to hold four social mixer events each year. In addition, the board of directors plans to hold a business meeting every two months. The newly elected officers are composed of the following people: President - Andrew Elkin, Vice President - Kevin Musante, Treasurer/CFO - John Lineweaver and Secretary – Steve Mick. There are openings for additional offices and tasks. For further information, please visit the ABCF website at communityfoundationofalamo. com Plan to play at Hap Magee Ranch Park Alamo and Danville share funding for Hap Magee Ranch Park (HMRP) – Danville being the lead agency. Representatives of Danville recently presented proposed changes to the
HMRP children’s play area to the Alamo Municipal Advisory Council. P l a n s i n c l u d e a n ew layout of the play area, removal of some play equipment and the addition of new equipment. The goals are to provide a variety of activities to encourage play and learning. Among these goals are balancing, climbing, sliding, swinging, etc. The play area is planned to be welcoming and appealing to young and old. The new play structures may have names such as a stand up spinner, bucket swings, UFO spinner, disk swings, climbing vines, and other modernized equipment. The theme of a “working ranch” will be maintained in recognition of the ranch owned by Hap Magee. 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.
Danville Police announce new alarm permit system–residents to receive permit renewal emails Danville homeowners will be receiving notifications asking them to renew their alarm system permits as the Danville Police Department has partnered with a new company to manage the permit and billing processes. U n d e r t h e To w n ’ s Municipal Code, residents and businesses with alarm systems must register their systems and obtain an alarm permit. The new company managing the permitting, Alarm Program Systems, Inc., will be responsible for managing permits for
residents. The emails, expected to be sent by the end of January, will contain instructions on renewing permits as well as a link to the permit form. Residents are assured that the email from Alarm Program Systems, Inc. are legitimate. The new system will streamline the process for all alarm users and make yearly renewals a simple task. Permits will be valid for one calendar year (January - December.) As per the Town code, repeated false alarms can result in fines being levied.
Information on the false alarm statue can be found at https://danvilleca. citysupport.org. For those residents unable to open the email, who did not receive one, or have a new alarm system to register, contact APS at https:// danvilleca.citysupport.org, by email at danvilleca@ citysupport.org, or call (888) 865-9770 for assistance. For more information, contact Crime Prevention Specialist Amy Ballock at (925) 314-3717 or aballock@ danville.ca.gov.
valleysentinel.com
February 2018
The Valley Sentinel
page 5
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 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. 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. 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
Assemblywoman Baker’s Bill to Make State Web Sites More Accessible to Disabled Signed By Governor Brown and information found on State Assemblywoman Catharine Baker (R-San Ramon) announced Governor Brown has signed her Assembly Bill 434. This measure will increase accessibility of State Web sites by requiring those Web sites to be certified t h a t t h ey a re c o m p l i a n t with California’s Web site accessibility standards. Currently, California has adopted Web site accessibility standards to accommodate those with visual, hearing, or mobility disabilities. The California State Auditor’s Office, however, reviewed
t h e a c c e s s i b i l i t y o f key online services provided by four State departments, and discovered the Web sites were not fully accessible to Californians with disabilities. Some violations were so severe that Californians with disabilities would not be able to complete any necessary online services. “With a growing use of government services online, we need to ensure that State Web sites are easily accessible, especially for those with disabilities. AB 434 will help ensure that essential services
Web sites will be accessible to Californians of all abilities,” said Assemblywoman Baker. AB 434 was sponsored by the Coalition of California Welfare Rights Organizations, I n c. , a n d s u p p o r t e d by Alameda County Board of Supervisors, State Council on Developmental Disabilities, and East Bay Developmental Disabilities Legislative Coalition. This bill received unanimous, bipartisan support in both the Senate and Assembly prior to receiving the Governor’s signature.
FROGS from page 1
on pollen, algae, diatoms, and periphyton, which is a mixture of detritus, bacteria, and algae. Metamorphosis usually follows in two to two and one half months later, however some may delay changing up to five months later as an adaptive strategy to fire in the ecosystem. As the tadpoles develop legs during final transformation, they change from an herbivorous diet to a carnivorous one. As adults, their diets consists of spiders,
beetles, flies, ants, insects, and arthropods. Predators include raccoons, snakes, egrets, herons, reptiles, and mammals. They may live up to nine years in captivity. The Pacific Tree Frog was named the state amphibian of the State of Washington. It is a keystone species in all the regions it is found. James M. Hale is a wildlife biologist, ethnobiologist, and ecological consultant. Please visit his website at www. dochale.com.
of 793 graduates. He was n a m e d Ta c t i c a l D e f e n s e Leader during the training and earned Thunderbolt, the highest level of achievement for Physical Training during BMT. Robert is currently
attending Technical School at Lackland Air Force Base and will continue on through the pipeline at Medina, Texas studying Health Care with plans to pursue a medical career.
heard Pacific Tree Frogs erroneously calling in Africa, Europe, Asia, and other areas, as part of movie soundtracks. Males produce several call types. Females lay their eggs in clumps of 10 to 90, usually attached to vegetation or leaf litter in the breeding pools. Pacific Tree Frog eggs may be consumed by Rough-Skinned Newts and other amphibians. Within one to three weeks the tadpoles will hatch to feed AIR FORCE from page 1
Air Force Base, LackLand, Texa s. Ro b e r t c o m p l e t e d Basic Military Training on December 22, 2017, an Honor Graduate, 3rd in his class
have already tried chiropractic, physical therapy, injections, and/or were told they would need surgery. This breakthrough treatment works by gently s e p a ra t i n g t h e ve r t e b ra 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 Class IV Laser therapy gets to the root of the injury and treats it at the cellular level, providing energy to the cells so they can heal. 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. There is hope! This unique combination o f n o n - i n va s i ve t h e ra py 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.
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page 6
The valley Sentinel
February 2018
National Trails System Anniversary By Beverly Lane, President, East Bay Regional Park District Board of Directors
This year marks the 50th anniversary of the National Trails System, a nationwide network that includes both historic and recreational trails. Congress created the system through the National Trails System Act of 1968, for the purpose of preserving historic trails and providing outdoor recreation needs. For an overview, visit the website, www.nps.gov/nts/. Two of the National Trails are within the East Bay Regional Park District: a section of the National Park Service’s Juan Bautista de Anza National Historic Trail and the East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail. The Anza Trail is a 1,210mile historic route extending from Nogales, Arizona on the U.S.-Mexican border, through desert and coastal areas in southern and central California, north to the San Francisco Bay Area. It’s the route over which Lt. Col. Juan Bautista de Anza led 240 soldiers and settlers in 1775-1776 to colonize the region
and establish San Francisco’s Presidio and Mission. In March and April of 1776, Anza led a smaller party to explore the East Bay and view the Delta. His expedition has been compared to the 1804-1806 Lewis and Clark expedition, which explored what is now the western United States from near St. Louis to the Pacific Coast. A brochure and map available online at www. ebparks.org or at the Park District offices in Oakland describes an auto tour you can take to retrace Anza’s route through the East Bay. There are interpretive panels along the way, from the Mission Peak staging area in Fremont to Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley, telling the story of Anza and the Native Americans his group encountered on their journey. The panels were created by the District in partnership with the National Park Service. A section of the Anza Trail is also the Delta de Anza Regional Trail, which extends for 15 miles between Concord and Brentwood in Contra Costa County. It’s a paved, multi-use trail, open to hikers, cyclists and equestrians. A park district brochure, “Eastern Contra Costa Regional Trails,” includes a map. It can be downloaded online at www.ebparks.org.
The East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail goes for more than 30 miles along the ridgelines from Richmond south to Castro Valley. The trail links six regional parklands: Wildcat Canyon, Tilden, Sibley, Huckleberry, Redwood and Anthony Chabot. It also serves as a section of the Bay Area Ridge Trail, which ultimately will encircle San Francisco Bay. The scenery varies from windswept grassland ridgetops to shady redwood
forests, and the panoramic views from the heights are spectacular. Maps of the individual parks along the route of the East Bay Skyline National Recreation Trail can be obtained at park trailheads or the district website, www.ebparks.org. For more information on the Skyline Trail, click on “Parks/Trails” on the left side of the Park District home page. Then click again on “Trails.” A list of interpark regional trails will
valleysentinel.com display, including the East Bay Skyline National Trail. Click on that for a web site with detailed information. Other park board members and I will travel to Washington, D.C. this month to meet with legislators about the District’s priorities and needs. We will join with the Partnership for a National Trails System for their Washington Hike the Hill conference at that time. Later this year the District and National Park Service will hold an event to celebrate the National Trails System’s 50th anniversary. Stay tuned.
Award-Winning Citizens Academy Pack Out Your Trash East Bay Regional Parks columnist Raises Awareness about Wastewater By NedIn MacKay, light of some recent with plastic water bottles is the cap, squash Treatment, Public Governance, and experience, now is probably as totheunscrew bottle, roll it up from the good a time as any for my more Recycled Water resources, and how we keep or less annual sermon about bottom, then screw on the cap
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, Central San invites you to attend their Citizens Academy, which provides a free, behind-thescenes 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 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
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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 Tuesday evenings, 6:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m., from March 27 to May 1, 2018 (except for a 9:00 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.facilities tour on April 17 (no evening class) and one alternate date for those who cannot make the April 17 tour). The classes are held at Central San’s Multipurpose Room, 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.
reducing litter in the parks. I realize that I’m probably preaching to the choir here, but if that’s the case, you can help spread the gospel. I often walk at Black Diamond Mines Regional Preserve in Antioch, and invariably return from the hike with a harvest of discarded glass and plastic bottles and aluminum cans. Lots of other parks have the same problem. This is discouraging, because it’s not hard to pack out what you’ve carried in. O f c o u rs e yo u c a n ’ t compact glass bottles. But aluminum cans crush easily. The compacting technique
again. When you return from the hike, many trailheads have recycle bins where you can dispose of your haul. Discarded citrus peels are another matter. Yes, they will biodegrade, but it takes a really long time, and meanwhile they create an unsightly mess. And the wildlife doesn’t like the taste of orange peels any more than we do. So please carry out the peels. The plastic sleeves in which this paper is delivered during rainy weather make excellent trash bags. They can also be used in a pinch to pick up your dog’s business. Enough said.
D. Little
valleysentinel.com
February 2018
The valley Sentinel
page 7
Love your parks Park District’s Free News from the East Bay Regional “Trails Challenge” Program Park District Gets People Outdoors, By Ned MacKay Day is on Feb. 14, and the East Bay Regional Improves Health Black Diamond Mines ParkValentine’s District will anticipate it with several activities on the
This year marks the 25th anniversary of the East Bay Regional Park District’s signature outdoor activity program, Trails Challenge. Launched in 1993 to get East Bay residents moving outdoors and exploring their trails, the program makes it easy for hikers of all abilities to get to know and love their Regional Parks. Trails Challenge is a free program supported through financial contributions from the East Bay Regional Park District, Kaiser Permanente, and the Regional Parks Foundation. “The 2017 Trails Challenge was great,” said Hayward resident and 2017 participant Diane Petersen. “I’ve been hiking at the same park forever (Mission Peak) and Trails Challenge got me out to other amazing parks in the region.” “My pups especially liked the Trails Challenge because they got to go to new parks with new sniffs!” added Petersen, who plans on taking on the 2018 challenge with her canine hiking companions. To complete the 2018 Trails Challenge, participants need to hike a marathon’s length of trails (26.2 miles) or at least five of the 20 designated hikes in the Trails Challenge guidebook. “Trails Challenge is about people getting outdoors and connecting with nature,” said Interpretive and Recreation Services Manager David Zuckermann. “Hiking is one of the best ways people can enjoy our Regional Parks.”
E a c h y e a r, a n e w Trails Challenge guidebook highlights 20 different trails throughout the parks. From shorelines to ridgetops, there is something for everyone. A handy matrix helps readers choose from easy, medium or challenging hikes, and to identify trails accessible to wheelchair users, and those that allow dogs, bikes or horses. “The Trails Challenge guidebook was especially helpful,” said Petersen. “The guidebook allowed me to pick a hike with a level of difficulty that matched how I felt that day. Participation in Trails Challenge is easy – simply v i s i t w w w. e b p a r k s. o rg / TrailsChallenge to download the guidebook and get started. No online registration is required. Free printed guidebooks and T-shirts are also available at participating Visitor Centers while supplies last. Participants who complete the challenge and turn in their log by December 1st receive a commemorative Trails Challenge pin. This year, all 20 featured trails are featured on the FREE mobile app AllTrails. To use the app, participants should download the app, sign-up and log in, then go to https://www.alltrails.com/ lists/trails-challenge-2018, click on “Copy to my lists”, and then click “Continue in App”. The featured trails will show under ‘Lists’ in ‘Plan’. The 2018 featured hikes are located in the following parks:
Hike Mount Diablo Discover Diablo is Save Mount Diablo’s free public hike series program, offering an annual schedule of guided interpretive family walks, hikes and property tours open to any and all trail blazers looking to get out in nature. Generously sponsored by the Shell Martinez Refinery for a second year, the 2018 Discover Diablo Free Public Hike Series is underway Hosted by Save Mount Diablo, the Discover Diablo program, now in its second year, continues to build awareness of local land conservation efforts and to convey the importance of protecting open space for habitat and recreation. Through this initiative, Save Mount Diablo intends to reach new audiences,
build our membership base of adventurers, explorers and outdoor enthusiasts, spark a passion for the Diablo Range, and engender community conservation by deepening connections to the land and nature. “We are pleased to sponsor this opportunity for people to explore and discover the beauty of Mount Diablo, a wonderful natural resource in our own backyard, with experienced guides,” said Ann Notarangelo, External Relations Manager for the Shell Martinez Refinery. “We hope that people will enjoy learning more about the diverse habitats and the striking vistas while spending time outside with their families and friends.”
Regional Preserve, Antioch Briones Regional Park, Martinez Contra Loma Regional Park, Antioch Crown Memorial State Beach, Alameda Cull Canyon Regional Re c re a t i o n A re a , C a s t ro Valley Del Valle Regional Park, Livermore Diablo Foothills Regional Park, Alamo Dublin Hills Regional Park, Dublin Garin/Dry Creek Pioneer Regional Parks, Hayward Lake Chabot Regional Park, Castro Valley Las Trampas Regional Wilderness, Alamo Morgan Territory Regional Preserve, East Contra Costa County Point Pinole Regional Shoreline, Richmond Point Isabel Regional Shoreline, Richmond Sibley Volcanic Regional Preserve, Oakland Sunol Regional Wilderness, Sunol Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley/Orinda Hills Vargas Plateau Regional Park, Fremont Wa t e r b i r d R e g i o n a l Preserve, Martinez Wildcat Canyon Regional Park, Richmond The East Bay Regional Park District is a system of beautiful public parks and trails in Alameda and Contra Costa counties east of San Francisco Bay, established in 1934. The system comprises 121,000 acres in 73 parks including over1,250 miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and nature learning.
We invite you to join us in exploring the Bay Area’s beautiful wild lands and open spaces. Discover Diablo offers two events per month for the entire year – either taking place on a Save Mount Diablo property or hosted on a collaborating agency’s land. Save Mount Diablo’s Family Walks are for hikers of all skill levels and will take place on other portions of open space on and around the mountain. Save Mount Diablo’s Property Tours will illustrate the importance of preserving wildlife habitat, building corridors between existing parks, and of course, all the beauty that the Diablo Range has to offer. We hope that with two events per month in various locations, there See DIABLO page 10
theme of love in nature.
For instance, there’s a “Love is in the Air” hike scheduled from 10 a.m. to noon on Sunday, Feb. 11 at Sunol Regional Wilderness, led by naturalist Ashley Adams. The hike is part of the Healthy Parks/Healthy People series, designed to encourage enjoyable and healthy outdoor recreation in the regional parks and other public open spaces. Ashley will lead the group on a three-mile round trip walk to a pond where newts convene during the breeding season. Newts are a variety of salamander. Sunol is located at the end of Geary Road off Calaveras Road about five miles south of I-680 in southern Alameda County. Meet Ashley at the park visitor center. The hike is free of charge; Sunol has a parking fee of $5 per vehicle. For information, call 510-544-3249. Another newt safari is planned from 10 to 11:30 a.m. on Sunday, Feb. 11, at Garin Regional Park in Hayward, led by naturalist Francis Mendoza. This walk is for ages 12 and older, and heavy rain cancels. Garin is located at the end of Garin Avenue off Mission Boulevard. Meet Francis at Garin’s Red Barn visitor center. Call 510-544-3220 for information. There are also lots of newts and other salamanders at Tilden Regional Park near Berkeley. In the rainy season, the newts migrate from woods and fields across South Park Drive to Wildcat Creek for purposes of reproduction. Naturalist Trent Pearce will lead a walk on South Park Drive from 4 to 6 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 11 to document the salamander population. Meet Trent in the Regional Parks Botanic Garden parking lot at the intersection of South Park Drive and Wildcat Canyon Road. Bring a flashlight. The hike will proceed, rain or shine. Call 510-544-2233. Also at Tilden, interpretive student aide Brianna Contaxis-Tucker will talk about Charles Darwin and evolution in a program from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 10 at the Environmental Education Center. She’ll discuss the animal islands of evolution in the Galapagos Islands and at Tilden. The center is at the north end of Tilden’s Central Park Drive. Call 510-544-2233. Elsewhere in the regional parks, one of the more panoramic vistas can be enjoyed from along the George Miller Trail overlooking Carquinez Straits between Martinez and Port Costa. Naturalist Kevin Dixon will lead a walk from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10 along the paved, wheelchair accessible trail. Meet Kevin at the staging area on Carquinez Scenic Drive south of Port Costa. You can get there from Crockett or down McEwen Road from Highway 4. For information, call 510-544-2750. Recycling is the theme of a program from 2 to 3 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 10 at Big Break Regional Shoreline in Oakley. The naturalist staff will show how to reuse some common household items, and offer hints for recycling and reducing waste. Big Break is at 69 Big Break Road off Oakley’s Main Street. Call 888-327-2757, ext. 3050. A reminder: the Castle Rocks in Mt. Diablo State Park, which overlook Diablo Foothills Regional Park in Walnut Creek, is off limits from now through July 31 to protect nesting peregrine falcons. Please do not enter the area. Signs explaining the restriction are posted at access points along the Old Stage Road trail. There are lots of other programs scheduled in coming days in the regional parks. For more information, check out the district website, www.ebparks.org.
Senior Services page 8
valleysentinel.com
February 2018
How Medicare covers mental health By Greg Dill
Let’s hope it never happens, but there may come a time in your life when you need mental health care. Your Medicare covers a wide variety of such services, in both hospital inpatient and outpatient settings. If you have Medicare Part A (hospital insurance), you’re
eligible for mental health services when you’re admitted to a hospital as an inpatient. You can get these services either in a general hospital or a psychiatric hospital that only cares for people with mental health conditions. If you’re in a psychiatric hospital (instead of a general hospital), Part A only pays for up to 190 days of inpatient psychiatric hospital services during your lifetime. Medicare pays for inpatient hospital stays on the basis of “benefit periods.” A benefit period begins the day you’re admitted to a hospital as an
Advance Health Care Directive Clinic
On February 18, Non-profit Contra Costa Senior Legal Services teams up with Pleasant Hill Senior Center and members of CSAA’s Legal Department to provide this free legal clinic for seniors 60 and older who reside anywhere in Contra Costa County. Attorneys will meet individually for 45 minutes with seniors to prepare an Advance Health Care Directive tailored specifically to your wishes and then notarized for free. An AHCD is the legal document used to (1) ensure that your health care wishes are known if you are unable to speak for yourself, and (2) allows you to appoint an agent to make health care decisions for you. Please call the Senior Center at (925) 798-8788 to sign up for your free appointment with an attorney. Event is from 1 pm – 4 pm.
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inpatient. It ends when you haven’t received any inpatient care for 60 days in a row. If you go into a hospital after one benefit period has ended, a new benefit period begins. You must pay the inpatient hospital deductible ($1,340 in 2018) for each benefit period. There’s no limit to the number of benefit periods you can have. But remember, there’s a lifetime limit of 190 days for inpatient psychiatric hospitals. After you pay the deductible, Medicare covers inpatient hospital care for the first 60 days with no coinsurance on your part for each benefit period. For days 61-90, your coinsurance is $335 per day of each benefit period. If you’re in the hospital beyond 90 days, your coinsurance is $670 per “lifetime reserve day” for each benefit period (you have up to 60 reserve days over your lifetime). In addition, you’ll pay 20 percent of the Medicareapproved amount for mental health services you get from doctors and other providers w h i l e yo u ’ re a h o s p i t a l inpatient. Your Medicare Part B (medical insurance) covers partial hospitalization in some cases.
Partial hospitalization provides a structured program of outpatient psychiatric services as an alternative to inpatient psychiatric care. It’s more intense than care you get in a doctor’s or therapist’s office. This treatment is provided during the day and doesn’t require an overnight stay. Medicare helps cover partial hospitalization services when they’re provided through a hospital outpatient department or community mental health center. Along with partial hospitalization, Medicare may cover occupational therapy that’s part of your mental health treatment and/or individual patient training and education about your condition. Medicare only covers partial hospitalization if the doctor and the partial hospitalization program accept Medicare as full payment. For Part B to cover a partial hospitalization program, you must meet certain requirements, and your doctor must certify that you would otherwise need inpatient treatment. Under Part B, you pay a percentage of the Medicareapproved amount for each service you get from a doctor or other qualified mental health professional if they accept Medicare rates.
You also pay coinsurance f o r e a c h d ay o f p a r t i a l hospitalization services provided in a hospital outpatient setting or community mental health center. The Part B deductible ($183 in 2018) applies as well. Your doctor or other health care provider may recommend you get services more often than Medicare covers. Or they may recommend services that Medicare doesn’t cover. If this happens, you may have to pay some or all of the costs. It’s important to ask questions so you understand why your doctor is recommending certain services and whether Medicare will pay for them. All of the above applies to people with Original Medicare. If you’re in a Medicare Advantage (Part C) health plan, check with the plan for details of how it covers mental health care. For more information on your Medicare mental health benefits, I recommend this detailed brochure: www. medicare.gov/Pubs/pdf/10184Medicare-Mental-Health-Bene. pdf. Greg Dill is Medicare’s regional administrator for Arizona, California, Nevada, Hawaii, and the Pacific Territories. You can always get answers to your Medicare questions by calling 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-6334227).
Hope Hospice provides family caregiver education classes
Living with Dementia: Understanding Behavior as Communication Since dementia changes the ways individuals think, perceive and use language, it is important to understand that those with dementia frequently communicate their wants and needs through their behaviors. With the goal of promoting meaningful connections between the individual with dementia and those providing care, Hope Hospice presents a class on Understanding Behavior as Communication, on Saturday, February 10, from 9:45 a.m. to noon. This class is part of the Living with Dementia series. During this class, Hope’s Director of Volunteers Jill Smith, RN; and Debbie Emerson, MS, Hope Hospice Community Health Educator, will demonstrate ways in which behaviors can be assessed, interpreted and responded to in a manner that can help to manage cognitive deficits and improve the quality of life for
all involved. Both Smith and Emerson are certified dementia care specialists. Any community member engaged in the role of family caregiver or expecting to soon become a caregiver is invited to attend these classes. Classes are held at Hope Hospice, 6377 Clark Avenue, Suite 100, Dublin (2nd floor conference room). Light refreshments will be served. Register online at HopeHospice.com or contact Hope Hospice Community Health Educator Debbie Emerson at debe@hopehospice. com. Hope Hospice’s Family Caregiver Education Series offers a series of 14 classes designed to provide training, education, support, and resources for those caring for loved ones with chronic or disabling conditions. Download a copy of the class schedule at HopeHospice.com and select the Family Caregiver Education Series.
These classes are available at no cost to all community members; however, donations to Hope Hospice are greatly appreciated. This program is supported in part by a generous grant from the Rotary Club of Pleasanton. Fo r n e a r l y 4 0 y e a rs, Hope Hospice has provided personalized end-of-life care to families in the Tri-Valley and surrounding communities. Included in its scope of care is hospice and home health care, bereavement and community education. As a community-led, non-profit organization, Hope Hospice offers services regardless of insurance, income status or nation of origin or religion. Staff is available 24/7. Hope Hospice is accredited by the Joint Commission, licensed by the State of California Department of Health Services and Medicare/ Medi-Cal certified. Learn more at HopeHospice.com or contact us at (925) 829-8770.
Senior Services valleysentinel.com Sponsored Content
Can I Retire in 2018? By Robert Cucchiaro
One of the services that we offer our clients is a financial literacy program for their kids. Taught in person and spread over 3 sessions, the goal of this program is simple – convince young adults to put their money to work for them in productive assets. For simplicity, we go on to define productive assets as liquid securities (stocks & bonds) and real estate. These are then contrasted against things like boats, jet-skis, lavish vacations and jewelry. The point here is simple, even a sub-optimal investment in a productive asset will yield more than spending money on unproductive things. 2017 was yet another year where those with productive assets did quite well. East Bay real estate continued to appreciate in value and the stock market reached all-time highs. As a result, the top 3 questions we are receiving from clients and prospective clients are as follows: 1. Will this continue? 2. Can I afford to retire in 2018? 3. How will the new tax laws impact me? Obviously everyone’s situation is different, but let’s spend a minute on each of these topics in general, knowing that your specific situation may vary.
Will this continue? I believe it was Yogi Berra that said “predictions are hard, especially about the future”. When it comes to local real estate, on one hand the job market is good and job growth has outpaced housing development. On the other hand, between rising interest rates (which make homes more expensive) and the recent changes to the tax code which make housing costs less tax deductible, it wouldn’t surprise me to see a pullback in housing prices. Nothing like 2008 is on the horizon, but a smaller decline is possible if not probable. For the stock market, you have a similar story in that lower corporate tax rates and a growing economy are great for stocks, but stock valuations are high and that usually means a correction isn’t too far off. Now is a good time to be balanced in our opinion. Can I afford to retire in 2018? Your monthly income in retirement is certainly tied to the size of one’s portfolio and after 6 straight years of robust stock market returns, investors are feeling pretty good about their 401Ks/IRAs and brokerage accounts right now. But whether or not you have enough to retire depends on a whole lot of factors. Former Fed Reserve chairman Alan Greenspan once stated that the most complex calculation most Americans will ever face is in answering this very
Free Tax Preparation Free Tax Preparation for the 2018 tax season is available starting February 2018 from AARP’s Tax-Aide and United Way’s Earn It, Keep It, Save It (EKS) programs. Service is provided by volunteer tax preparers who are IRS trained and certified. Both programs serve taxpayers of any age, and AARP membership is not required for Tax-Aide. EKS service is limited to those with incomes below $54,000, while Tax-Aide does not have an income limit. Beginning January 8, 2018, for information or to make an appointment for the Tax-Aide sites serving the San Ramon/Danville area, call: (925) 973-3250 for the San
page 9
February 2018
Ramon Senior Center site or (925) 480-7202 for the Danville Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley site. For general information and other site locations, call: (925) 7263199. For information on EKS sites call 2-1-1 or visit www. earnitkeepitsaveit.org. To complete your tax return, you will need to bring the following documents: • Social Security Card or ITIN letter for all individuals to be listed on the return • Photo identification for the taxpayer and spouse • Copies of all W-2s, 1098s and 1099s • Other income and deductions • Your 2016 Tax Return
question. My advice here is simple, hire a professional. Look for a Certified Financial Planner (CFP) that charges a flat fee for retirement planning & advice. And finally, how will this new tax law impact me? Those of us in the tax planning world are still trying to figure out who the winners & losers are here. In general it seems like our ultra-high net worth clients will get some well-deserved tax breaks on estate taxes and real estate income, and our upper-middle class clients may be worse off due to the loss of certain deductions. The one thing I would say is that now more than ever, you need a Financial Advisor that handles both investments & taxes because the two worlds are becoming more and more intertwined. Our team includes 2 CFPs, a CFA, and MBA and we just brought on board a new Tax Director (Debbie Pham, EA) to help our clients take advantage of these new tax laws. Give us a call or visit our website to see if we can help you plan a better 2018! 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.co or call 925-927-1900
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page 10
The valley Sentinel
February 2018
valleysentinel.com
County seeking members Assemblywoman Catharine Baker Calls On for the solid waste local Trump Administration To Protect California Coast From Oil Drilling • California’s coastal enforcement agency Assemblywoman Catharine E a r l i e r t h e Tr u m p e c o sys t e m i s h o m e t o a Independent Hearing Panel Baker (R-San Ramon) announced administration announced a diverse variety of marine she will introduce a resolution urging the federal government not to expand oil drilling off the coast of California. The resolution comes in response to the Trump Administration’s decision to allow new drilling leases off the U.S. coast. The resolution will highlight the environmental risks of expanded offshore drilling and the economic importance of California’s coast and tourism industry. “Local voices matter,” said Baker. “Ours have spoken loud and clear on the subject of new offshore drilling for decades. California’s coastline is too important to our state’s environment, character, and economy. I’m encouraged that Florida got an exemption from this policy, and California should receive the same treatment.”
plan to open federal waters, including those off California, to new offshore oil drilling. Days later, Interior Secretary Zinke exempted Florida from the plan, citing local opposition and the importance of the state’s tourism industry. Ocean-dependent tourism contributes more than $17 billion annually to the California’s economy and provides more than 350,000 jobs. • California coastal economy from those counties bordering the Pacific Ocean creates $662 billion in wages and $1.7 trillion in Gross Domestic Product. • Nearly 500,000 California jobs are dependent on ocean-related activities that together contribute to over $44 billion to the economy.
Danville Chamber seeks award nominations The Danville Area Chamber of Commerce is now accepting applications for the Annual Community Service Awards to be presented at our luncheon, at 11:30 am on Thursday, March 15 at Crow Canyon Country Club. The awards are: Employee of the Year
Business of the Year Citizen of the Year (volunteer) Business Person of the Year Charitable Organization of the Year ( nonprofit) If you would like to nominate a person or business please submit their information the sustainability of local open space. SMD properties aren’t usually open to the public, so these are rare opportunities. To complete the land conservation picture in the Diablo Range and pay homage to collaborating agencies, we also host monthly outings on Mount Diablo State Park, East Bay Regional Park District, and Walnut Creek Open Space Foundation lands. Discover
DIABLO from page 7
will be something for everyone to enjoy and learn from. To honor Save Mount Diablo’s mission, we aim to display both our current property holdings as well as those we have helped protect over the years. Hosting monthly hikes is an effective way to engage and grow communities invested in
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Application forms can be obtained from the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors by calling (925) 335-1900 or by visiting the County webpage at www. co.contra-costa.ca.us. Applications should be returned to the Clerk of the Board of Supervisors, Room 106, County Administration Building, 651 Pine Street, Martinez, CA 94553 no later than 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 2, 2018. Applicants should plan to be available for public interviews in Martinez on Monday, March 12, 2018. For more information about the LEA Independent Hearing Panel, contact Kristian Lucas, Contra Costa County Environmental Health, at (925) 692-2573 or Kristian.Lucas@ hsd.cccounty.us.
m a m m a l s, s e a b i rd s, s e a turtles, marine fishes, and i n ve r t e b ra t e s, i n c l u d i n g numerous threatened and endangered species. • California’s commercial a n d re c re a t i o n a l f i s h i n g industry feeds people around the world, supports more t h a n 1 20 , 0 0 0 j o b s, a n d generates over $6 billion in annual economic activity. California has not issued new drilling leases in state waters for 50 years, and has repeatedly urged the federal government to prohibit new offshore oil development. The California Coastal Sanctuary Act of 1994, which passed with bipartisan support, prohibits any new leases for the extraction of oil or gas in state waters.
In November 2013, the Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors established an Independent Hearing Panel for the Contra Costa Solid Waste Local Enforcement Agency (LEA). The three-member panel requires a general member of the public who resides in Contra Costa County and a technical expert with knowledge of solid waste management, technology, and laws. The Panel will hear matters related to solid waste enforcement, permits, and appeals. County residents who have an interest in public policy and solid waste management are encouraged to apply for this nonpaid volunteer opportunity. The County Board of Supervisors will appoint to fill three vacancies for a three-year term ending on March 31, 2021.
including contact information and why you are making this nomination to ceo@ danvilleareachamber.com. Make sure to include your name and contact information as well. The recipients will be selected in early March and both you and they will be notified. The chosen award recipients will be paid guests of the Chamber.
San Ramon Chamber of Commerce Appoints 2018 Board of Directors
Diablo ties these outings together by offering an annual schedule of free public hikes to explore these diverse lands - with the added bonus of being guided by knowledgeable staff and experienced volunteer hike leaders. According to Ted Clement, Executive Director of Save Mount Diablo, “It is the goal of the Discover Diablo program to build connections between people, Save Mount Diablo, and the land, helping communities develop a strong sense of place and a deepened appreciation for our collective backyard. Most importantly, we want to cultivate a love of the land in participants - so as to grow the land ethic and stewardship for our precious Mount Diablo area.” We intend to reach audiences from all over the Bay Area to improve awareness of and advocacy efforts for the Diablo Range. There is something for us all to discover in the nooks and crannies surrounding Mount Diablo. Please join us on the trails to find your own individual inspiration! RSVP required. See our full schedule of upcoming hikes: bit.ly/Discover-Diablo-HikesCalendar
The San Ramon Chamber of Commerce recently appointed new board members. At its annual Business and Community Awards dinner on December 7, 2017, the San Ramon Chamber of Commerce swore in its 2018 Board of Directors including the 2018 Chair of the Board, Gina Channell, Publisher of Embarcadero Media. “I am honored and excited about stepping into the role of Board Chair,” said Gina Channell, president of Embarcadero Media’s East Bay division. “This will be a transformational year for San Ramon in many ways, but especially with the opening of City Center. I’m looking forward to working with a great Board and the chamber staff as we continue to advocate for and strengthen the local business community.” Since 1983, the San Ramon Chamber of Commerce has provided local businesses with benefits by hosting business-tobusiness opportunities for sharing advice, political representation and customer introductions. Networking, business education and advocacy are the Chamber’s specialty. The Chamber of Commerce is devoted to helping the local business community by promoting our members and facilitating opportunities for business development. These business and community leaders will support the Chamber in its mission to enhance the quality of life and economic vitality of the San Ramon Valley by representing business and community interests. San Ramon Mayor Bill Clarkson swore-in the following Directors: • Cherlene Andresen – Kaiser Permanente • Marian Cathedral-King – Chevron • Gina Channell – Embarcadero Media • Terry Church – Law Office of Terence N. Church • Christine Donohoe – San Ramon Regional Medical Center • Joyce Feldman - Joyce Feldman Agency - Farmers Insurance • Joe Gorton – City of San Ramon • Elizabeth Graswich – San Ramon Valley Unified School District • Geoffrey Leonard – San Ramon Marriott • Wade Luckhardt – FASTSIGNS San Ramon • Monica Magee – Bishop Ranch / Sunset Development • Paige Meyer - San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District • Robert C. Moore – RSVP Publications • Susmita Nayak – AlphaGraphics Tri-Valley • Patience Ofodu – Workforce Development Board • Carmel Redell – Pacific Gas and Electric Company • Craig Stevens - City of San Ramon, San Ramon Police Department • Dave Thompson – TeamLogic IT For more information about the San Ramon Chamber of Commerce, visit www.sanramon.org.
valleysentinel.com
February 2018
County Offering Historic John Muir House for Destination Wedding Site this Valentine’s Day By Candace Andersen. Contra Costa County Board of Supervisors
February is the month many associate with valentines and romance. The Contra Costa Clerk-Recorder’s office is offering a unique venue for couples who wish to exchange wedding vows at a special location on Valentine’s Day. In partnership with the National Park Service, the Clerk-Recorder’s office will host weddings at the historic John Muir House from 10:20 a.m. to 3:20 p.m. on Wednesday, February 14th. There are 16 appointments available for this “Destination Wedding” opportunity. A Clerk-Recorder officiant will perform the ceremonies. The John Muir National Historic Site is located in Martinez at 4202 Alhambra Avenue. The site preserves the 14-room Italianate Victorian mansion where the naturalist and writer John Muir lived, as well as a nearby 325-acre tract of native oak woodlands and grasslands historically owned by the Muir family. The main site is on the edge of town, in the shadow of State Route 4, also known as the “John Muir Parkway.” Weddings will be held inside one of the well-decorated rooms of the home, which was built in 1882. The room features an elegant chandelier and grand piano, detailed architecture and a stunning
backdrop for the ceremony with an archway in front of a window overlooking the property. Up to 20 guests can accompany each couple getting married. The County is delighted to highlight the history of our region and of Martinez while offering this memorable option
at 555 Escobar Street in Martinez. The office features two beautifully appointed ceremony rooms adorned with handcrafted stained glass windows. Appointment times are from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Walk-in couples are welcome and will be accommodated based on availability of
Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center in Pleasant Hill is creating a brick pathway in front of our 150 year old Rodgers Ranch Heritage farmhouse. Cement yourCenter place in in Pleasant creatingbrick a brick history withHill an is engraved to pathway in front of our 150or year old honor or remember family loved farmhouse. Cement your place in ones, or highlight a business or history with an engraved brick to organization. honor or remember family or loved Information and a anbusiness order form ones, or highlight or for the brick(s) can be found at organization.
to Contra Costa couples for ceremony rooms. Guests are www.RodgersRanch.org Information andpermitted, an order their special day. Couples but form space is limited the brick(s) can be found interested in for a ceremony at to 24 people in theat larger room the John Muirwww.RodgersRanch.org House should and 17 people in the smaller call 925-335-7908. The Clerk- room. Appointments are Recorder’s office plans on recommended, as Valentine’s having more “Destination Day is one of the busiest Wedding” events at different days of the year for civil scenic locations throughout ceremonies. the county on a quarterly Those looking to book a basis. Check back to their ceremony at Clerk-Recorder’s website for future offerings. office can do so online at Couples can also make www.contracostacore.us. A appointments to have their civil marriage ceremony is $60. Valentine’s Day wedding Couples can obtain a public ceremony at the Contra Costa marriage license for $86 or a Clerk-Recorder Office, located confidential license for $90.
The valley Sentinel To save time, marriage l i c e n s e a p p l i c a t i o n s a re available for completion online at www. contracostacore.us prior to visiting the office and may also be purchased before the ceremony date. For more information, contact Joseph B a r t o n , C l e r k - Re c o r d e r Services Supervisor at 925335-7928.
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My office is here to serve the residents of Contra Costa County District 2, which includes San Ramon, Danville, Alamo, Walnut Creek, Lafayette, Moraga, Canyon and Orinda. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if we can provide you with additional information on this topic or on other County issues. I can be reached at SupervisorAndersen@bos. cccounty.us or 925-957-8860.
315 Cortsen Road in Pleasant Hill • Heritage classes for children • School field trips • Sustainable gardening classes Hill 315 Cortsen Road in Pleasant • Displays of items from the • Pleasant HeritageHill classes for children Historical Society • field trips • School Meetings and events • Sustainable gardening classes Rodgers Ranch a Pleasant Recreation • is Displays of Hill items from theand Park District property and Pleasant Hill’s historicSociety site. We are a nonPleasant Hillonly Historical profit, tax-exempt 501c3 organization • Meetings and events Rodgers Ranch is a Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District property and Pleasant Hill’s only historic site. We are a nonprofit, tax-exempt 501c3 organization
Barn Wood for Sale Call Chris at (925) 890-4482
Barn Wood for Sale Call Chris at (925) 890-4482
For more information please contact us at 925-937-3677 or visit www.rodgersranch.org For more information please contact us at 925-937-3677 or visit www.rodgersranch.org
Rodgers Ranch Commemorative Brick Path Add your legacy to the neighborhood! Rodgers Ranch Heritage Center is creating a brick pathway in front of the 150 year old farmhouse, and we invite you to cement your place in Pleasant Hill’s history by purchasing a commemorative brick. Proceeds will help rebuild the barn, which was part of the original homestead and will be used for workshops and events presented by RRHC, Rodgers Ranch Urban Farm, and the Pleasant Hill Recreation and Park District. Honor or remember family and loved ones, or highlight a business or organization with an engraved brick that will become a permanent part of Pleasant Hill’s only historic site. We appreciate your generous support!
Community Calendar
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For additional Community Events visit: www.ValleySentinel.com Please email information about your events to info@valleysentinel.com February 10 Bay Area Black Family Roller Skating Bay Area Black Families come out and skate in community from 6:00pm tp 9:00pm! Tickets are on sale for $15 per adult and child, skate rental included. Food and bevarages can be bought at Golden Skate (2701 Hooper Drive, San Ramon). Let’s black out the space and have fun! Visit theblackbayarea.org for more information. February 10 9th Annual Recreation Program Expo 10am-1pm Get a sneak peek of what the Town of Danville has planned for the Spring and Summer of 2018! Meet Recreation and Arts Staff, plus a variety of specialty class instructors and get all of your questions answer in person. All attendees will receive a 10% discount on fees for programs listed in the Spring Activities and Summer Camps brochure. Come and stop by the Danville Community Center (420 Front Street, Danville) from 10:00am to 1:00pm, or contact (925)-314-3405 for more information. February 14 Valentine’s Day Brunch and Line Dancing 10-11:30am What’s sweeter than a brunch on Valentine’s Day? Come enjoy delicious food with good friends. After we eat- we dance! Learn a new line or make up your own steps to the music. All are welcome to attend this sweet treat at the Danville Senior Center (11 E. Prospect Avenue, Danville) from 10:00am to 11:30am. Register at www.danvillerecguide.com with a fee of $10, or call (925)-314-3430.
March 3 Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss! 4:30-6pm The Town of Danville and the Danville Library invite you to join the fun and festivities at the 10th Annual Dr. Seuss Birthday Party! Don’t miss your favorite Dr. Suess stories, fun and zany crafts, and many more surprises! Space is limited and pre-registration is required at www.danvilerecguide.com. Danville Community Center, 420 Front Street, Danville. Siblings under the age of four can attend at a discounted rate. To learn more, call (925)-314-3400. March 10 Danville Rotary Crab Feed 5:30pm Rotary Club of Danville is holding its annual Crab Feed on Saturday, March 10th. Location is St. Isidore’s Big Gym, 440 La Gonda Way, Danville. Doors open 5:30 PM. Dinner 7:00 PM. Cost is $75.00 per person. To register visit DanvilleRotary.org, Carb Feed Tab or email DanvilleRotary@Rotary5160.org. Proceeds support Danville Rotary Foundation in its funding of Discovery Counseling Center, student scholarships, youth and community programs. Phone: 925-519-0857 ONGOING
Special Services for Children with Cancer and Their Families Cancer Support Community offers short-term counseling (12 to 20 sessions) at no cost to children with cancer and their families. Counseling can be for the family, siblings, and/or kids coping with cancer. Counseling is provided by doctoral interns or post doctoral fellows February 18 under the supervision of our clinical psychologists. To Sunday Pasta Dinner at San Damaino request this service, please call us at 925-933-0107 4:30-6:30pm Enjoy a family style pasta dinner this and ask to speak with our program director, Margaret Sunday at the lovely San Damiano Retreat. Cost is $15 Stauffer, LMFT. for adults and $10 for kids 12 and under. Dine with us 5 times and the 6th time is free! To make reservations Hope Hospice seeking volunteers call 925-837-9141x 315, or visit www.sandamiano. Hope Hospice is currently looking for individuals who org. San Damiano is located at 710 Highland Drive, are interested in volunteering to assist hospice patients Danville, CA 94526. and their families. Volunteer opportunities include; Home Care; Cosmetology; Healing Touch; Reiki; February 20 Massage Therapy; Vocalists. If you are interested in Lunar New Year Celebration becoming a volunteer, contact Jill Biggs, RN, at 9255pm Celebrate the Lunar New Year with the amazing 829-8770. acrobats of Leung’s White Crane Lion Dancers! This program features thunderous drumming and the Lion Volunteers Needed: Read to Preschoolers dance, traditionally thought to bring luck and happiness Volunteers are needed at childcare centers in Conand drive away evil spirits. These special programs cord, Pittsburg, and West County. The Contra Costa will be in the Children’s Reading Room of the Danville County Library will supply books and resources. For Library (400 Front Street, Danville) at 5:00pm. For more more information, please contact Maureen Kilmurray information, contact (925)-314-3750. at 925-927-3288. February 25 Book signing with Betty Reid Soskin, oldest national parks ranger 1-3:00pm Betty Reid Soskin will be signing her book, “Sign My Name to Freedom”. She has been a homefront war-years worker, a singer-songwriter and performer, a writer, a legislative aide, the oldest national parks ranger, a public icon, and an honest and tireless fighter, both against discrimination of all forms and for the growth and triumph of the human spirit and values to benefit us all. She began work at the Rosie the Riveter/ World War II Home Front National Historic Park when she was 85. Mt Diablo Unitarian Universalist Church, Bortin Hall; 55 Eckley Lane, Walnut Creek. For more information call (925) 934-3135 or visit www.mduuc.org, or email ajunger@mduuc.org. Free.
Alamo Farmer’s Market Every Sunday, Year round 9am-2pm, rain or shine. Fresh seasonal fruit and vegetables, nuts, local honey, live music, delicious varieties of hummus with fresh pita and pita chips. Located in the Alamo Plaza Shopping Center, at Stone Valley Road and Danville Blvd., with convenient parking. 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, San Ramon. Canine Companions for Independence Puppy ClassEach 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. 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. 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 February 14 Valentine’s Day Brunch and Line Dancing 10-11:30am What’s sweeter than a brunch on Valentine’s Day? Come enjoy delicious food with good friends. After we eat- we dance! Learn a new line or make up your own steps to the music. All are welcome to attend this sweet treat at the Danville Senior Center (11 E. Prospect Avenue, Danville) from 10:00am to 11:30am. Register at www.danvillerecguide.com with a fee of $10, or call (925)-314-3430. Danville Seniors Unless otherwise noted, the following activities are held at the Danville Senior Center, Veterans Memorial Building, 115 E. Prospect, Danville. For more information call 925-314-3490 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/ Recreation/Seniors. Sneaker Trips: The Town of Danville’s Senior Sneakers program is a great way for you to make new friends and get out and around the greater Bay Area. There’s always something new to see and learn. The Danville Area Senior Hikes (DASH) is open to all adults and meets on the second and fourth Wednesday of every month. The group starts at 8:45am at Osage Park, 816 Brookside Drive, Danville and returns about 1pm. Information: 925-3143400 or visit www.ci.danville.ca.us/Recreation/Seniors/ Senior_Hiking. San Ramon Seniors The following events are held at the Alcosta Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon, unless otherwise noted. For more information call
Please email your calendar events to the Sentinel at Info@valleysentinel.com by 5pm on the 20th of the month preceding publication month. Inclusion in the calendar pages is at the sole discretion of Sentinel Newspapers, Inc.
valleysentinel.com
February 2018
The Valley Sentinel
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Community Calendar continued from page 12 925-973-3250 or visit www.sanramon.ca.gov/parks/programs/ ages55+.htm. Wisdom Wednesdays: 10:30am-12pm. Free workshops and informational sessions that will benefit you. They will give you free access to coffee, knowledge and a better understanding of important issues. Information: 925-973-3250. Trips Trip Desk is open Tuesdays from 10am-1pm. Sign up for trips at the travel desk or by depositing payment with registration form in the gold drop box found at the main entryway. Information: 925-973-3250. 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. To find out the exact meeting location, please call the Senior Center at 925-973-3250 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 13 Ribbon Cutting: Huntington Learning Center 12-1 pm Join the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce in celebrating the Grand re-opening of this learning center located at 3490 Camino Tassajara in Danville on February 13 from 12-1pm. Refreshments will be available as you meet the owners and staff of this Danville business. February 15 Business Financing, Banks And Other Options 2-4pm There are a number of options available to small businesses to start or grow their businesses from traditional borrowing, to equity financing, crowdfunding, grants, customer financing and more. This workshop will help you discover your best options by examining the broad range of options available, the advantages and disadvantages of each, and how to choose the one that is right for you. FREE 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill Call Oscar Dominguez at (925) 602-6806
Third Thursday Mixer 5:30-7pm Please join the San Ramon Chamber of Commerce for our Third Thursday Mixer at Brookdale San Ramon! Network with other businesses and Chamber members, while getting to know this San Ramon senior living facility. Brookdale San Ramon, 18888 Bollinger Canyon Road, San Ramon 94583 For more information call Kathy Fanning at (925) 2420600. $5 for Chamber Members, $20 for Non-Members February 20 Website Building BasicsBuilding And Publishing Your Very Own Website 9am-12pm. This inspiring and interactive 1-day workshop is suitable for any level of experience or ability. It is designed to introduce you to building and publishing your very own website. Bring your laptop to this workshop for an interactive session and learn; What is Wordpress - Introduction, Setting up a Wordpress Website,Themes, Plugins, Menus; How to create or edit pages, How to create or edit blogs articles, Security, Performance and Backup, and much more. FREE 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill Call Oscar Dominguez at (925) 602-6806 February 22 First Steps To Successful Start-Ups 9am-12:30pm Learn about the attributes of a successful entrepreneur, invaluable sources of information for the nuts and bolts of starting your business including licenses and permits, the business planning process and key information sources for developing your business plan, how to take advantage of the Small Business Development Center’s free and low cost services for your new business, and more! Join us to learn about the key success factors every new business owner needs before starting their venture! FREE 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill Call Oscar Dominguez at (925) 602-6806 Finding Investors For Your Business 2pm-4pm Whether you’re starting a business or need to expand your existing business, you may need investors to help fund your endeavor. Although a business loan is one option, finding investors allows you more access to funds which you generally don’t have to repay on a set schedule. You will need to do a number of things to find an investor: create a fundable business plan, explore the broad range of investor options, find investors who are interested in hearing your pitch, prepare for the presentation they will want
you to make, negotiate a deal and perform up to expectation. This seminar will explore these issues and more. Find out if investor capital is right for you. FREE 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill Call Oscar Dominguez at (925) 602-6806 February 27 Soft Skills Are Hard: Characteristics For Success I And II 9am-1pm In the first and second in a series of essential skills workshops, these trainings explore the characteristics of individuals that are successful in their organizations as employees, contractors or even management/ownership. These include communication skills, relationships with others, problem solving and personal empowerment. Please note: this is a two part series. Sign up for both workshops; Session I February 27, and Session II March 6. FREE 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill Call Oscar Dominguez at (925) 602-6806 March 1 Jump Start Your BusinessAction Planning-1 Day Workshop 9:30am-12:30pm The strategic plan sets the direction for your business to make decisions. This leads to writing a mission statement that identifies your purpose and a vision statement to guide your day to day business building activities. This workshop aims to help participants define, decide and achieve their goals. By supporting participants to envision the future they want for their company, and defining the steps that will take them there. Business and strategic planning for existing and aspiring business owners: Learn to effectively articulate your Mission Statement; Create a sustainable Vision Statement for the future; Create an effective strategy to complete stated Goals; Begin to develop your quarterly Action Plan. This is a hands-on workshop. Bring your pen and paper and/or your laptop. FREE 300 Ellinwood Way, Bodega Room, Pleasant Hill Call Oscar Dominguez at (925) 602-6806 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. Mo Mo’s Restaurant, 1444 North California Blvd., Walnut Creek. 925-330-8275 or david@staff.webquarry.com
BBR-Partners for Success 1st and 3rd Tuesdays 12-1pm. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Partners for Success meets the 1st and 3rd Tuesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive, Danville. www.danvilleareachamber.com BBR-Sunrise Alliance 2nd and 4th Wednesdays 7:30-8:30am. One of the Danville Area Chamber of Commerce’s successful Business by Referral groups, Sunrise Alliance meets the 2nd and 4th Wednesday of each month to provide concrete business leads to one another. Chamber Conference Room, 117 E Town & Country Drive. Danville. www. danvilleareachamber.com CLUBS & ORGANIZATIONS February 10 California Writers Club: “Finding Your Most Powerful Words” 11am-2pm Clive Matson will present Finding Your Most Powerful Words at the next luncheon meeting of the Mt. Diablo Branch of the California Writers Club (CWC) at Zio Fraedo’s Restaurant, 611 Gregory Lane, Pleasant Hill. Sign-in is from 11:00 am to 12:00 pm, luncheon 12:00 pm to 12:45, including a short business meeting, and speaker from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Registration is $25 for CWC members, $30 for guests. Reservations at https:// cwcmtdiablo.org/current-cwcmt-diablo-meeting/. February 13 ADAS (Alamo Danville Artist Society) monthly meeting 7:30pm Live demonstration by
Theresa Saia, an award winning pastel artist. Theresa’s work encompasses the medium of pastel, using radiant color and dynamic light. Her paintings explore the worlds she has discovered in her many travels. Meeting held At the Alamo Women’s Club, 1401 Danville Blvd., Alamo for more information visit www.ADAS4art.org. February 27 Alamo Danville Newcomers Club 10am-Noon Are you a new resident of Danville, Blackhawk, Diablo or Alamo, a longtime resident, newly retired or empty nester interested in making new friends and participating in various social activities? The Alamo Danville Newcomers Club is a women’s organization, whose purpose is to enrich the lives of all its members and their families in a sociable manner. The next “Welcome Coffee” will be held on February 27th from 10:00 AM to Noon. RSVP to alamodanvillenewcomers@ gmail.com. Visit www.alamodanvillenewcomers.com Danville Veteran Service Organizations 8am-11am Every Saturday at Veterans Memorial Building of San Ramon Valley – in Danville – the VSOs jointly host a “Veterans Coffee Social” from 8AM until 11AM… Bring a friend or fellow Veteran and show them the museum - share some social time. Drop In - no reservations – all Veterans welcome… stop for a few minutes - or stay for hours! WW II Vet & Senior Docent Art Gaskns has pastries waiting for you! Please share information about our VMB / SRV Military Museum & Library open daily M-F from 9-3 and it’s free! See CALENDAR page 14
Community News & Information Danville • Blackhawk Alamo • Diablo • San Ramon Publisher/Editor-Denise Rousset Advertising-Betty Overhoff Chief Financial Officer-Jeff Gummere Graphic Designer-Laurie Prindle Auto-David & Judy Colman Intern-Veronica Yoo, SRVHS
925-820-6047
542 San Ramon Valley Blvd., #A Danville, CA 94526 www.valleysentinel.com
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The valley Sentinel
February 2018
valleysentinel.com
Community Calendar continued from page 13 Tri-Valley Fly Fishers Visitors welcome. Meetings feature speakers who share their knowledge of the sport. Held at 7:00 PM on the first Thursday of every month, September through June at the Livermore-Pleasanton Rod and Gun Club, 4000 Dagnino Road, Livermore, CA 94551. Information: email Roger Perry at President@ Tri-valleyflyfishers.org Danville-Alamo-Walnut Creek Branch of the American Association of University Women (AAUW) Advances equity for women and girls. AAUW membership is open to all graduates of accredited four year colleges or universities and those holding an Associate Degree. For information contact Soni at 2861737 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 RECURRING Mondays: The Walnut Creek Garden Club 9:45am The Walnut Creek Garden Club meets on the second Monday of each month at The Gardens at Heather Farm in the Camellia Room. The center is just off Ygnacio Valley Road at 1540 Marchbanks Drive. Call 925-947-1678 for directions. The business meeting is at 9:45am, socializing time is at 10am, and the program is at 11am. Contact mslittle44@gmail.com for more information. You do not need to be a gardener to join the WCGC!
Sons In Retirement (Las Trampas Branch) Monthly Luncheon 11:15am. Meets the third Monday of each month, except for May and December. Make new friends and participate in fun activities. The February 19 guest speaker will be Michael Butler, artistic director of Center Rep. Mr. Butler will be speaking about the benefits of arts in the community and current and upcoming Center Rep performances. Make $25 luncheon reservations by calling 925-3221160 by the preceding Wednesday. Boundary Oak, 3800 Valley Vista Road, Walnut Creek. Information: visit www.branch116.org. 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. Caregivers of Alzheimer victims can get information on how to help them through this difficult time in life. San Ramon Senior & Community Center, 9300 Alcosta Blvd., San Ramon. Information: 925-973-3250 Tuesdays: TOPS (Take Off Pounds Sensibly) We meet every Tuesday at St. Timothy’s Office Building, Grace House, Basement 1550 Diablo Rd. Danville CA Our hours: Weigh in 8:30 9:30am, meeting is 9:30 - 10:30am. We are a weight loss club. Information, please call Mary Stoneburner, at (925) 837-1882 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. 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.
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/communityprograms.html. Wednesdays: Danville Tennis Club (DTC) 6:30-9 PM Wednesday Night DropIn Tennis at San Ramon Valley High School, 501 Danville Blvd., for men and women of 4.0 level or above (and strong 3.5). Also have USTA teams and social events. Join free at https://groups.yahoo. com/neo/groups/danvilletennisclub/ info
Danville Lions Club 6:30pm. Meets the first and third Wednesday at the Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Dr., Danville. Information: Truman Howard 925-787-2565 truman.howard@gmail.com San Ramon Valley Rotary 7pm. Meets every Wednesday. Blackhawk Country Club, 599 Blackhawk Club Drive, Danville. Info: sanramonvalleyrotary.com. Blue Star Moms 7-9pm. Meets the second Wednesday of every month to participate in service activities supporting sons/daughters serving in the military. Danville Veterans Memorial Building, 400 Hartz Ave. Information: bluestarmoms.org. Diablo Valley Quilters 7-9pm. Meets the third Wednesday of every month. No charge for guests. Danville Congregational Church, 989 San Ramon Valley Blvd., Danville. Information: diablovalleyquilters.com.
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 Thursdays 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, Walnut 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.
Exchange Club of San Ramon Valley 12-1pm The Exchange Club meets every 2nd Wednesday at Noon at Faz restaurant. The February 14 meeting will feature speaker San Ramon Valley Unified School District new Superintendent, Rich Schmitt. He will talk about new programs and new facilities. Lunch included, $20 for members, $25 for non-members. RSVP coachstepper@yahoo.com, 275-2412. Faz is located at 600 Hartz Avenue, Danville 9526.
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 925362-9806 or vfwpost75.org.
Walnut Creek Toastmasters 7-8:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. 1660 Oak Park Blvd., Pleasant Hill. Information: walnutcreek.freetoasthost.net
Danville Toastmasters Club #1785 7:30-9pm. Meets every Wednesday. Room W204 at Diablo Valley College,1690 Watermill Road, San Ramon. Information: danvilletoastmasters1785.com.
Montelindo Garden Club (third Friday of every month, September through May) will be on Friday February 16 at 9 am, St. Stephen’s Episcopal Church, 66 St. Stephens Drive, Orinda, CA. Everyone is welcome. Speaker: Leslie Buck — Leslie is “the first American woman to learn pruning from one of the most storied landscaping companies in Kyoto.” Her 2017 New York Times reviewed book, Cutting Back, recounts her challenging but ultimately rewarding pruning apprenticeship in the best gardens of Kyoto. Questions? Contact wconstantine@comcast.net. Or call 925-284-8193.
Thursdays: Danville Alamo Garden Club Meets on the 2nd Thursday of the months between September and June starting at 9:15 am at the Alamo Women’s Club 1401 Danville Blvd, Alamo. If you have any questions, contact Susan at membershipvp@dagc.us or go to our website: www.dagc.us.
Transitions-“Navigating Life’s Turning Points Together” 9-11:30am. 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
The Danville Women’s Club 11:30am Feb. 22 The Danville Women’s Club is holding “an afternoon of Bridge” at its clubhouse located at 242 W. Linda Mesa Avenue in Danville A table is $80. To make your reservation for lunch and Bridge, contact Mary Wallace at (925) 837-3860 or e-mail at marynmac@yahoo.com. This event is a fundraiser for our Patty Hart Memorial Scholarship Fund for high school seniors.
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.
Sons in Retirement (San Ramon Valley chapter) Monthly Luncheon 10:30am; Social Hour, 11:35am meeting and lunch. Meets the 3rd Wed. of each month. Reservations, please email us at www.info@sir128. com by Friday prior to the luncheon. Bridges Golf Club, 9000 S. Gale Ridge Rd., San Ramon.
San Ramon Valley 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
Walnut Creek Rotary 12:15-1:30pm. Meets every Tuesday. Heather Farms Garden Center, 1540 Marchbanks Drive, Walnut Creek. Information: rotarywc.org.
Alamo Rotary 12:15pm. Meets every Wednesday. Crow Canyon Country Club, 711 Silver Lake Dr., Danville. Info: alamorotary.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.
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.
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.
San Ramon Valley Newcomers 11:30am-2pm. Meets the third Thursday of every month with a featured guest speaker at a
Fridays:
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.
valleysentinel.com
AUTO March 2009 February 2018
The valley Sentinel
page 15
2018 Lexus Lc 500 Coupe By David and Judy Colman
Wanna be a rockstar? Buy a 2018 lc 500 right now. Make sure it’s painted “infrared,” then show up at Cars & Coffee. Our local show is getting started so early that there were zero parking slots available in the main lot by 8am. We know because we cruised each row slowly, looking for an opening. We might as well have been trolling for car freaks. The instant we located a parking spot, a crazed delegation circled the coupe, wondering what this full size hot wheels was all about. The tagline on the coupe’s $102,890 window sticker reads “experience amazing.” From the gaping looks all around, we would have to say the lexus motto captured that moment perfectly. It’s been years since any new test car generated such unadulterated enthusiasm from onlookers. And it happened time after time. We repeatedly popped the aluminum hood to afford the curious a view of the v8 gem that produces 471hp and 398lb.Ft. Of torque. This 32 valve engine, which benefits from variable valve timing for both intake and exhaust, is beautifully presented, with just enough shrouding to keep the engine clean, but still allow a view of the mechanicals. The tubular shock tower reinforcements, painted to match the body color, look especially impressive. The v8 connects to a 10-speed “sport direct shift” automatic gearbox equipped with the biggest magnesium paddles you’ll find in any cockpit today. Once underway, gear selection is conducted solely through use of those paddles. The stubby console-mounted stick only
determines 4 basic choices: park, reverse, neutral and drive. The paddles control the rest. Our test coupe was fitted with the $2,960 optional “sport package with carbon roof.” In addition to the dazzling woven fiber roof panel, this package adds “8-way power front sport seats with alcantara inserts.” Climbing into these hawaiian sling style bucket seats is a bit of a chore. Climbing out is even more taxing. But once ensconced in the pocket of lexus’ leather trimmed catcher’s mitt, you quickly realize this heated and ventilated chair is the most supportive, comfortable sport seat yet devised. We also bravely ventured into the abbreviated back seat for a quick sit. Both front chairs automatically slide forward to allow access to the back, so ingress is less of a problem than egress. At 5’8,” my head was butting the sloped rear window, so consider this area to be off bounds to adults, but perfect for a pair of children. The standard wheel and tire fitment for the coupe is a 20 inch diameter, 10-spoke cast alloy rim fitted with 245/45r20 front and 275/40r20 rear tires. Our test lexus, however, was fitted with optional 21 inch forged alloy rims fitted with run-flat bridgestone s1000l tires (245/40rf21 front; 275/35rf21 rear). These forged rims are quite a bit flashier than the satin spoked cast alloys, but they do offer lots of eye candy in each wheel well. Beyond looks, the bridgestones provide excellent all weather adhesion, with particularly fine dry handling thanks to a sticky treadwear rating of tw 230. With the simple twist of a knurled knob atop the instrument binnacle, you can convert the
coupe’s road behavior from its normal driving mode to one of 3 other choices: comfort, sport and sport+. In addition to engine and transmission behavior, the chosen driving mode also controls the “adaptive variable suspension.” In practice, it’s fun to toggle between the settings depending on road condition and location. The normal setting proved well suited to freeway travel, but if you plan on attacking curvy back roads, the sport and sport+ settings allow you to concentrate on driving your preferred line while the transmission automatically takes care of downshifts to keep the v8 in the prime of its power band. Note, however, that the lexus vdim, or vehicle dynamic integrated management, which oversees all aspects of the coupe’s performance, is programmed to cut engine power whenever it senses an incipient slide, no matter which driving mode you have selected. The premature intercession will come as an unwelcome shock to advanced drivers with quick reflexes. Cutting edge performance shortcomings aside, the lc 500 is stellar on so many levels that it defies comparison with anything else in the coupe marketplace. It not only looks stunning, but sounds ethereal as it constantly beckons you to drive hard and fast. But with its stout v8 and
legendary lexus build quality, there’s no need to question its practicality nor its usefulness as a daily driver. This coupe looks so wildly exotic it will gather a crowd every time you park. But unlike other exotics, this lexus will never spend significant down time parked for repairs at the dealer. 2018 Lexus Lc 500 Coupe Engine: 5.0 liter v8, dohc, 32 valves, dual vvt-i
Horsepower: 471hp Torque: 398lb.-ft. Fuel consumption: 16mpg city/26mpg highway Price as tested: $102,890 Hypes: sensational sheet metal, planted handling, fighter jet cockpit Gripes: distracting graphic user interface pad, excessive vdim oversight Star rating: 10 stars out of 10
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